In this COS Town Tidings Issue

⛅ Colorado Springs Weather

👮‍♂️ Colorado Springs Funeral Home Scandal: Is Your Loved One Affected?

🏡 Affordability Crisis: COS' Housing Market Struggles Amid Economic Success

🐾 Tragic Encounter: Bear's Aggression Forces Wildlife Officers to Make Tough Call

📆 Upcoming Events

 🥛 Hydration

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Colorado Springs Funeral Home Scandal: Is Your Loved One Affected?

Over 115 human remains have been discovered improperly stored at the "Return to Nature" Funeral Home based in Colorado Springs, triggering an investigation and concerns about the funeral home's practices.

Local authorities are working together to identify the remains, while Colorado Governor Jared Polis has declared a disaster in the area. Families who have used the funeral home's services are encouraged to reach out to the authorities for support. The incident underscores the importance of regulations in the funeral industry to ensure proper treatment of the deceased.

Affordability Crisis: COS' Housing Market Struggles Amid Economic Success

Colorado Springs' booming economy comes with a downside - housing affordability challenges. The pandemic eviction moratoriums caused landlords to hike up rents, resulting in a whopping 25% increase between January 2021 and August 2022.

Home prices reached record highs due to pandemic-induced demand, but interest rate hikes slowed down the growth. However, the median sales price of a house in Colorado Springs still remains a staggering 43% higher than in 2019.

Affordability concerns have escalated, with monthly payments now gobbling up over 40% of median household income. The tight housing market is exacerbated by mortgage interest rates above 7%, leading homeowners with lower rates to stay put, reducing the number of available houses for sale.

On the bright side, residential building permits have surged, potentially easing the burden for homebuilders.

Tragic Encounter: Bear's Aggression Forces Wildlife Officers to Make Tough Call

In a heartbreaking incident, a bear that charged at two boys in a Colorado Springs open space had to be euthanized by wildlife officers. The bear's cubs were tranquilized and taken to a regional facility, but unfortunately, one of them did not wake up.

The officers responded swiftly to reports of the bear charging at the boys, and upon arrival, they found an adult female bear exhibiting aggressive behavior. Despite attempts to capture and relocate the bear, it repeatedly charged at people, leaving no choice but to euthanize it.

This serves as a poignant reminder that when we venture into nature, we must always remain alert and vigilant. We share these spaces with wildlife who were here before us, and while tragedies can occur, it's crucial to be mindful of our surroundings and respect their presence.

Upcoming COS Area Events

• Venetucci Farm Pumpkin Fest - Oct 13-29, 2023 (every Fri-Sun in Oct); 10 AM - 3 PM

• Boo at the Zoo - October 20-22, 27-29 and 31, 2023; 4-8:30 PM

• The Little Gym of Colorado Springs Halloween Maze & Trunk or Treat for kids up to 12 yrs old - Oct 28, 2023; 4-6:45 PM

Have an upcoming event you want us to share?

Hydration

Boost your well-being at high altitudes by prioritizing hydration. Staying adequately hydrated is crucial for overall health, especially in drier air.

If plain water isn't your favorite, try infusing it with fresh fruit slices or herbs like mint or basil for a refreshing twist. You can also opt for electrolyte-enhanced water or sugar-free electrolyte powders to replenish essential minerals without spiking your sugar intake.

Remember, staying hydrated supports your body's vital functions, aids in digestion, and helps regulate body temperature, no matter your fitness level.

**Nothing in this newsletter is meant to diagnose or treat any condition nor is it medical advise. Please consult your physician before making any changes to your current lifestyle.