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Note: All OCN articles published since the paper started in June 2001 are posted on this web site. Generally, only articles from the past year or two are included in the tables of links below. 

Please use OCN's search function at the top right of each page to find all the articles on a topic.

Topics

Academy Water and Sanitation District
Arts and Crafts
Baptist Road
Ben Lomond Mountain
Bird Watch on the Palmer Divide
Bits and Bytes
Black Forest Park
Book Reviews - Between the Covers
Board of County Commissioners
Concrete Plant Proposals
County Clerk and Recorder
County Planning
Donala Water and Sanitation District
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District
Drilling and Mining
Economic Development
Emergency Services
Flying Horse Ranch
Forest Lakes Development
Forest View Acres Water District
Forestry
Health and Wellness
Heritage Grant
High Country Highlights
Home Place Ranch
I-25
Information on Local Leaders
Jackson Creek
July 4th Celebration
Law Enforcement
Lewis-Palmer School District
Library Events
Local History
Monument Academy
Monument Board of Trustees
Monument Comprehensive Plan
Monument Dam and Lake
Monument Marketplace
Monument Parks and Landscape, Police Advisory, and Public Works Committees
Monument Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment
Monument Preserve
Monument Recall Election
Monument Sanitation District
Nature of Our Community
NEPCO
On the Trail
Palmer Lake Sanitation District
Palmer Lake Sports
Palmer Lake Town Council and Planning Commission
Perspective on Our Community
Pollution
Property Taxes and Special Districts
Recycling
Reflections
Roadwork
Service Organizations
Sunshine Laws
Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District
Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Rescue Authority
Tri-Lakes Waste Water Treatment Facility
Triview Metro District
Wal-Mart
Water Supply
Weather
Woodmoor Improvement Association
Woodmoor/Monument Fire Protection District
Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District

Academy Water and Sanitation District

The Academy Water and Sanitation District serves approximately 300 homes east of the Donala Water and Sanitation District. It has been proposed that the Academy district be merged into the Donala district. For more on the topic...

Academy Water and Sanitation District Board of Directors, August 16: District still exploring options to merger with Donala
Academy Water and Sanitation District, September 9: New proposal clarifies financial expectations of a merger
Academy Water and Sanitation District Special Meeting, September 27:  Board wonders where merger money will come from
Academy Water and Sanitation District, Oct. 3: Violation of state standards turns out to be false alarm
Academy Water and Sanitation District, Nov. 7: Rate, service fee increase approved
Academy Water and Sanitation District, December 5: Board leaning toward merger with Donala
Academy Water and Sanitation District, January 2: Another step taken toward merger
Academy Water and Sanitation District, February 6: Colorado House bill could kill merger plans
Academy Water and Sanitation District, March 12: Merger talks back on track with Donala
Academy Water and Sanitation District, April 2: Early bond payoff not possible
Academy Water and Sanitation District, May 7: Merger is off; district looking at financing options
Jacobson resigns from Academy Water and Sanitation
Academy Water and Sanitation District, July 2: Clogged pumps will require a closer look
Academy Water and Sanitation District, Aug. 6: Lift station pump creating headaches
Academy Water and Sanitation District, Nov. 5: Lagoon violations trigger fee increase
Academy Water and Sanitation District, Dec. 10: Violations a sore subject with the state
Academy Water and Sanitation District, Jan. 7: Operator reports improved numbers, ideas for tackling future issues
Academy Water and Sanitation District, Feb. 4: Reverse osmosis system is newest lagoon upgrade idea
Academy Water and Sanitation District, April 8: Operator considers options for upgrades
Academy Water and Sanitation District, June 3: Expenses, past-due accounts dominate discussion
Academy Water and Sanitation District, Sept. 2: Preventing water source contamination focus of presentation
Academy Water and Sanitation District, Jan. 6: Missing 2007 documentation troubling
Academy Water and Sanitation District, Feb. 3: Concerns over water, wastewater issues are addressed
Academy Water and Sanitation District, March 3: Water rates going up
Academy Water and Sanitation District, May 5: Discussion on merging with Donala revived
Academy Water and Sanitation District, July 7: Plan would protect local water supply

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Arts and Crafts

OCN carries a series of articles on local arts and crafts and performing arts...

Free concert, Feb. 14
Art Matters: Art as creative industry jump-starts local economies
At the Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts
Audience gets the gifts at music and art event
Art Matters: Fiber art stars in Tri-Lakes
Whitworth fills TLCA with sounds of Southern bluegrass

Snapshots: RMMA Concert, Feb. 14

Snapshots: Art Group show, Feb. 27

Art Matters: You can take it with you

Snapshots: Colorado Art Education Association exhibit at TLCA

Snapshots: Outta The Garage at TLCA, March 6

Finders and Youngberg at TLCA, March 27
Sonny Hood’s photos exhibited at TLCA
Art Matters: Local artists share their secrets
Snapshots: Music-Poetry-Arts Café at TLCA, April 25
Art Matters: Real art for real people: the driving force of success
Community responds to the energy of Brulé & AIRO
Snapshots: John Adams at the TLCA, May 9
Snapshots: Book and Beck at the TLCA, May 29
Art Matters: The arts play on in Tri-Lakes
A Celebration of Art and History in Monument at the new Town Hall
Snapshots: TLCA, June 5: Wendy Woo
Snapshots: TLCA, June 5: PLAG Show and Sale
Snapshots: Pikes Peak Feis, June 12, 13
Snapshots: Blue Columbine Festival, June 13
Snapshots: Monument Concert in the Park, June 24
Art Matters: Chautauqua at TLCA: Exhibit for two women artists
Snapshots: Peace Poster Project at TLCA
Snapshots: Gift shop makeover at TLCA
Chautauqua makes successful return
Art Matters: Arts education lacking despite call for creativity
Art Hop, Aug. 20
PLAG at WMMI, Aug. 7
Siskind and Book at TLCA
Art Matters: The thought leaders
Monument Art Hop concludes another successful year
Snapshots: Dakota Blonde returns to TLCA, Sept. 12
Concert in the Park series receives Governor’s Award
Art Matters: Is your wish list ready?
PLAG Craft Fair, Oct. 3-4
TLCA Annual Member Show
Snapshots: John Adams Return a Rocky Mountain High for TLCA audience, Oct. 3
Art Matters: The art of living in "Try" Lakes
Two journeys make for one great TLCA show
Snapshots: Palmer Divide thanks fans at TLCA concert, Nov. 21
Art Matters: Creative community legislation
Art Matters: Porkbusters: Public art you can support for "free"
Snapshots: Drabkin and Brooks charm TLCA audience, Jan. 23
Snapshots: All glass show at TLCA
Art Matters: Objets du jour: Quilts, fiber, multimedia, and more
Snapshots: Sammy Dee’s blues electrify TLCA crowd, Feb. 13
Snapshots: Wedding Showcase at the TLCA, Feb. 21
Snapshots: Woo returns to TLCA, Feb. 27
Art Matters: Are you the next Herb and Dorothy?
Snapshots: Artist Robert Gray honored by his students
Snapshots: The Zen Cowboy Releases CD at TLCA, Mar. 12
Snapshots: Haus Muzik String Quartet at TLCA, Mar. 21
Snapshots: Grandma’s Grits at the TLCA , Mar. 27
Tri-Lakes Cares to benefit from art sale
Art Matters: Art Hop springing back into town for 2010
Two comedies bring laughs to TLCA
Poetry, song, and art combine at TLCA, April 9
Sweet Sunny South lays down bluegrass at TLCA, April 24
Vendors brave snowstorm to participate in Antiques Show
Art Matters: Drawing in our contemporary art scene
Snapshots: Burgan entertains with tunes from the ‘50s-‘60s, May 8
Snapshots: Art sale May 15 provides support for Tri-Lakes Cares
Tea Social treated to mini-concert, May 18
Snapshots: "Crimes of the Heart" at the TLCA, May 20-23
Snapshots: Monument Art Hop begins new season, May 20
Art Matters: Perception creates reality
Art Matters: Frames shouldn’t overpower art

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Baptist Road

Growth along Baptist Road has led to greatly increased traffic. The Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority (BRRTA) was formed to coordinate changes to Baptist Road to help address the resulting hazardous conditions and congestion. For more on this topic...

Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority, December 8: Triview sewer line construction delays Baptist Road improvements
On the Roads: Status of Baptist, Struthers road construction
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority, March 9: Board approves funding for Gleneagle Drive signal
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority, April 13: Board approves fee waiver for Timbers
On the Roads: Status of Baptist and Struthers road construction
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority, May 4: $21.5 million bond sale for interchange work approved
On the Roads: Baptist and Struthers Road construction schedules
Baptist Rd./Hodgen Rd. connection opens
On the Roads: Baptist-Struthers Road Update
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority special meeting, September 24: Baptist Road project delayed; contract extended
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority, Nov. 9: Land condemnation approved in hopes of speeding up I-25 interchange construction
Access roads approved across Santa Fe Trail
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority, February 8: BRRTA to move forward on bids for interchange
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority, Mar. 27: Several expenses approved to expedite construction
Valero agrees to donate land for I-25 off-ramp
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority, June 13: Condemnation of interchange right-of-way authorized
Officials celebrate completion of Baptist Road project
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority, Aug. 8: 2007 audit approved; interchange expansion contract options discussed
Interchange contract award Oct. 3
Lawrence Construction picked for interchange work
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority, Dec. 12: 2009 budget approved, including interchange expansion
NEPCO meeting, Jan. 10: Homeowners’ associations get update on Baptist Road I-25 interchange
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority, Feb. 13: Increase in number of road use fee categories discussed
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority board, April 23: Authority approves new accountant
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority, May 22: Merrifield casts deciding committee vote to eliminate state funds for widening I-25
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority board, July 10: Road use fee table amended
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority, Aug. 14: 2008 audit accepted
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority, Oct. 9: All Baptist Road bridge lanes opened
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority, Nov. 13: I-25 Baptist Road interchange completed for this year
BRRTA ceremony marks interchange milestone
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority, Jan. 8: I-25 Baptist Road interchange construction completed for this year
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority, April 2: BRRTA and PPRTA having trouble getting some sales taxes

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Ben Lomond Mountain

Residents are raising money to acquire 190 acres on the top and north side of Ben Lomond Mountain to be set aside as publicly accessible open space. For more on this topic...

Friends of Ben Lomond sponsor Adventures for FUNdraising
Friends of Ben Lomond lead on!
Friends of Ben Lomond lead on!
An update on Ben’s friends

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Bird Watch on the Palmer Divide

Articles to help you identify our local feathered friends...

Black-billed Magpie
Red-tailed hawk
The golden eagle
Cedar waxwing
Common Mallard
Cinnamon Teal
American Coot
Common Nighthawk
Western Grebe
Warblers
Flamulated owl
Blue Jay
Pine siskin
Common house finch
Hooded merganser
Northern pintail
Snowy egret
Great horned owls nest at Home Depot
The bald eagle, symbol of the nation
The black-chinned and magnificent hummingbirds
Killdeer
Burrowing owl
Sandhill crane
Trumpeter swan
The goldeneye
Common merganser
Western scrub jay
Western bluebird
The American dipper
Bohemian Waxwings
Chipping sparrow
Prairie falcon
Black-headed grosbeak
Black-crowned night heron
Prothonotary warbler
Northern saw-whet owl
Mourning dove
Greater sage grouse
The red-tailed hawk and the red-winged blackbird
Cranes
Yellow-headed blackbird
White-faced ibis, an unusual migrant
Wood Duck
American white pelican

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Bits and Bytes

Articles to help you find your way in the digital world...

Bits and bytes: Safe Computing - How to avoid getting flattened on the information superhighway
How to avoid becoming a cybercrime statistic
Safe Computing
What to do before lightning strikes: Data protection for the casual computer user

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Black Forest Park

King's Deer developer Dan Potter has proposed building a road through Black Forest Regional Park to provide access to his proposed 161 lot Cathedral Pines development. Opponents of the plan have successfully fought it in court. For more on this topic...

County commissioners approve eminent domain for Milam Road extension
Letter: Eminent domain used to benefit developer
2002 was a busy year for the Friends of the Black Forest Regional Park
Appeals court upholds decision to block the extension of Milam Road through Black Forest park
Letter: FOBFRP condemns condemnation
Residents review, criticize road plan
State Supreme Court rejects County’s appeal
Letter: Lessons from Milam Road
Letter: Something is wrong with this picture (Cindy Miller)
Letter: Milam Road eminent domain cases goes to court
Construction begins on extension of Milam Road
Black Forest Community Club, Sept. 22 : Black Forest Options Committee recommends incorporation
Letter: When did they sell the park?
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Book Reviews - Between the Covers

This series of book reviews focuses on books of special interest to Tri-Lakes area residents...
Book highlights for 2006
Cozy, mouth-watering meals for cold winter nights
Gripping Nonfiction for the Last (We hope) Cold Winter Month
"The Book Club"
Smiles & inspiration for grads & moms
Thanks, Dad!
Introduce a child to reading
Don’t forget to pack a book!
Turn a page to a better education
Get spooked with a good mystery
Making your list?
The perfect gift
A new you for the new year
Books that created lively discussions in 2007
Pack a new paperback
April is Poetry Month
Wise words for moms and grads
Don’t forget Dad!
Summertime, when the reading is easy
Beyond Harry Potter
First novels
Ready, Set, Vote!
When life gives you scraps, make quilts
Eye-catching coffee table books
Tightening the belt and the wallet
Let’s celebrate presidents’ month
Low-budget vacations
How does your garden grow?
Heartwarming books for troubling times
Summertime, and the readin’ is easy
I’m Bo-o-o-o-red!
Take a hike!
Real lives, real people
What’s new in the book world?
Gifts that keep on giving
Gifts for treasuring beyond the holidays
Great reads for cold nights
Love is in the air
Spring into spring with a new book
Tulips, daffodils, and … new books!
Celebrating motherhood
New favorites for fathers
Summer fun for kids
Beach and backyard books

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Board of County Commissioners

The El Paso County Board of County Commissioners wields considerable power as the governing authority for land use and other decisions for the unincorporated areas of the county. For more on this topic...

County commissioners reject Baptist Road Wal-Mart
Letter: To The Board of County Commissioners of El Paso County
County commissioners commit an additional $195,000 for Milam Road condemnation
Letter: To County Commissioner Williams
Letter: Just say NO to the RTA
Letter: A surprising visit
NEPCO meeting Dec. 4 featured Commissioner Williams
Letter: Milam Road eminent domain cases goes to court
Judge faults county and developer but approves taking of private land for Milam Road extension
Letter: You won’t even ask?
Letter: Information on the Safer Communities Initiative from our county commissioner
Summary of the November 4 election results
Board of County Commissioners January meetings summary
Patio homes get conditional approval
BOCC to consider Gleneagle Golf Course townhouse development, May 27
El Paso County Board of County Commissioners, May 27: County approves patio homes on driving range
County candidates present their priorities

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Concrete Plant Proposals

After being denied permission to build a concrete batch plant in Monument, Transit Mix submitted an application to the Town of Palmer Lake to build a plant off County Line Road on the north side of Ben Lomond Mountain. The proposal was unanimously denied by the Palmer Lake Planning Commission. More recently, Rockwell Ready-Mix Concrete applied for a business license to restart heavy industrial operations on North Washington Street in Monument. For more on this topic...

Letter: Development Update
Letter: Concrete batch plants - They're back
Monument concrete batch plant hearing May 12
Rockwell Ready-Mix Concrete denied business license
Monument planning commission looks at possible heavy industrial area, recommends approval of Marketplace
Monument planning commission approved updated comprehensive plan Aug. 13

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County Clerk and Recorder

The El Paso County Clerk and Recorder's office handles real estate transactions, motor vehicle registrations, and elections. In the latter part of 2002, Clerk and Recorder Patrick Kelly was appointed to be a district court judge. For more on this topic... 

Balink likely next county clerk and recorder, Sholdt appointed as interim
Election Day is coming Nov. 2: Do you know the ballot issues?
County election results available on-line

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County Planning

The El Paso County Planning Commission reviews proposals for developments in the unincorporated parts of the county. It makes recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners. Some of these projects have a direct impact on the residents of the Tri-Lakes area. For more on this topic...

El Paso County Planning Commission, January 16 and 23: Forest Lakes, Grandview projects approved
El Paso County Planning Commission, Feb. 6 and 20: Knollwood Village filing approved
El Paso County Planning Commission, March 6 and 20: Cherry Springs preliminary plan approved
El Paso County Planning Commission, April 17: Colorado Estates rezoning request denied
Black Forest Community Meeting, May 9: County presents changes planned for Hodgen east of 83
El Paso County Planning Commission, July 17: Rezoning of Knollwood parcel approved
El Paso County Planning Commission, August 23: Discussion of Hodgen Road improvements to continue
Gleneagle residents surprised and angered by plans for golf course
El Paso County Planning Commission: Hodgen plan will be reviewed again
Access roads approved across Santa Fe Trail
NEPCO meeting, January 12: Schueler presents information on special districts
Gleneagle Community Meeting, February 12: Gleneagle Golf Club pushes patio homes
El Paso County Parks Department Open House, April 30: Palmer Lake Park Master Plan update presented
El Paso County Parks Department Open House, April 30: County considers Palmer Lake improvements
Letter: Gleneagle Golf Club’s proposal is out of bounds
Gleneagle group fights golf course development
El Paso County Planning Commission meetings November 4 and December 2: Cathedral Pines expansion and Palomino Estates preliminary plan approved
El Paso County Planning Commission, May 19: Palomino, Gleneagle proposals advance
Beacon Lite Rd. meeting, Sept. 22
Doewood Gate meeting, Jan. 13: Citizens comment on future of controversial road gate
County transportation officials receive local public input
Letter: An ill-conceived plan with unintended consequences
El Paso County Board of County Commissioners, May 27: County approves patio homes on driving range
Fox Run Aerial Adventure Park proposed

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Donala Water and Sanitation District

The Donala Water and Sanitation District provides water and sewer service to the Gleneagle development. For more on this topic... 

Donala Water and Sanitation District, November 29: District increases rates; mill levies unchanged
Donala Water and Sanitation District, January 22: District reviews draft water infrastructure study results
Donala Water and Sanitation District, February 20: District takes positions on pending state legislation
Two local districts part of pilot water conservation program
Donala Water and Sanitation District, March 19: Donala to test for pharmaceuticals in the water
Donala Water and Sanitation District, April 16: Merger with Academy "may be getting too hard to do"
Donala Water and Sanitation District Candidate Statements
Donala Water and Sanitation District, May 21: Two board members sworn-in; wastewater plant costs expected to exceed $16 million
Donala Water and Sanitation District, June 18: District offers to buy ranch for the water
Donala Water and Sanitation District, July 16: Negotiations continue on district’s offer to buy a ranch for the surface water rights
Donala Water and Sanitation District, August 20: District under contract to buy ranch; wins awards
Donala Water and Sanitation District, September 17: Board to close in November on ranch purchase; hears concerns about proposed golf course development
Donala Water and Sanitation District, October 15: District on schedule to complete purchase of $4.6 million ranch
Donala Water and Sanitation District Board Meeting, Nov. 24: District completes purchase of $4.8 million ranch
Donala xeriscaping project proceeds yard by yard
Donala Water and Sanitation District Board, Jan. 28: Board tours wastewater facility; expansion nearing completion
Donala Water and Sanitation District, Feb. 18: District collecting data for Mt. Massive Ranch water court case
Donala Water and Sanitation District, March 18: District calculates cost of providing services
Donala Water and Sanitation District, April 15: Auditor recommends some changes in procedures
Donala Water and Sanitation District, June 17: Water court case filed to convert ranch water to district use
Donala Water and Sanitation District, July 14: Ranch access issues continue
Wastewater plant grand opening celebration July 24
Donala Water and Sanitation District, Aug. 19: District closer to a water deal with Colorado Springs
Donala Water and Sanitation District, Sept. 16: District considers raising water rates 10 percent
Donala Water and Sanitation District, Oct. 21: District plans survey of views about water and potential ballot measure
Donala phone survey finds strong support for connection to CSU
Donala Water and Sanitation District, Dec. 3: District reviews survey results, plans Jan. 13-14 community meetings
Donala Water and Sanitation District, Jan. 27: District prepares for May 4 election
Snapshots: Donala holds community meetings, Jan. 13-14
Donala Water and Sanitation District, Feb. 24: Board approves debt and mill levy questions for ballot
Donala Water and Sanitation District, March 18: May 4 ballots seek approval of debt, property tax increase
Special district election candidate statements
Letter: Vote "Yes" on Donala Issues A and B
Donala Water and Sanitation District, April 22: May 4 ballots seek approval of debt, property tax increases
Special district election results
Donala Water and Sanitation District, May 20: Decision by Colorado Springs may clear the way for a contract with Donala
Donala Water and Sanitation District, June 24: District to hold workshop on water issues July 7
Donala Water and Sanitation District Workshop, July 7: District to conduct aquifer recharge feasibility study, investigate IPR project, and finance CSU connection

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Donald Wescott Fire Protection District

The Donald Wescott Fire Protection District provides covers from Baptist Road south to Colorado Springs.  For more on this topic...

Donald Wescott Fire Protection District board, December 19: Shooting response leads to emergency purchase of body armor
Wescott firefighters receive Medal of Valor
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District Board, January 16: New firefighter and board member sworn in
Snapshots: Townsend sworn-in at Wescott
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District Board, March 12: May election ballot complicated by resignation
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District Board, April 23: Bill Lowes appointed to two-year board term; two other seats to be decided in May 6 election
Donald Wescott FPD Candidate Statements
Wescott FPD opens door to raise safety awareness
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District Board, May 21: New directors sworn in
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District board, June 18: Community wildfire protection plan to be created
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District Board, July 16: Community wildfire protection plan on hold
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District Board, Aug. 20: New firefighter and lieutenant sworn in
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District Board meeting, Sept. 24: Board considers options in first draft of 2009 budget
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District Board, Oct. 22: Cut gas line leads to fire at construction site
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District Volunteer Pension Board, Nov. 19: Pension fund sound despite market upheavals
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District Board, Nov. 19: Successful CPR recovery from cardiac arrest reported
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District Board, Dec. 3: Edwards being deployed; Burns appointed acting chief
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District Board, Jan. 28: Amended 2008 budget approved
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District Board, April 22: Volunteer data submitted for pension plan evaluation
Possible fire district consolidation
Rancher offers land for new fire station
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District board, Oct. 28: Board switches location for new station
Donald Wescott Open House, Oct. 3
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District Board, Jan. 27: Bookkeeping problems continue
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, Feb. 24: Board accepts bookkeeper’s resignation; staff will manage district finances again
Lance, Leonhardt, and Ridings receive Phoenix Club Award
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, March 17: Three firefighters selected for Phoenix Club Award
Special district election candidate statements
Fire Protection Districts’ special elections, May 4
Special district election results
DWFPD Safety Fair
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District Board, May 26: New board shifts focus from merger to new station
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District board, June 23: Board selects contractor and fire trucks for new station
Donald Wescott Fire Protection District, July 28: Financing of new aerial truck finalized

For more articles on Tri-Lakes area emergency services, see also the Woodmoor/Monument Fire Protection DistrictTri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Tri-Lakes-Monument Fire Rescue Authority, and the Emergency Services topics. 

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Drilling and Mining

There is interest in drilling for oil and natural gas in Pike National Forest in the Tri-Lakes area. For more on this topic...

Oil company discusses initial plans for Mount Herman drilling
Letter: Drilling at Mt. Herman
Snapshots: Limbach Trail
Perspective: Proposed gas drilling poses risk to Monument Preserve
Local group sees proposed gas drilling as environmental threat
Letter: Worried about Mount Herman drilling
Front Range Environmental Resource Coalition Community Meeting, May 21: Coalition presents update on proposed drilling
Decision delayed on gas drilling proposal
Expert details extensive use and production of toxic chemicals in natural gas production
Letter: Outrage over oil and gas leasing
Letter: Gas drilling would punch holes in forest and in budgets
Corrections to article on toxic chemicals used in gas drilling
Author criticizes Canadian oil sands project

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Economic Development

Opinions differ as to the best way to maintain a vital local economy. For more on this topic...

Tri-Lakes Forum grapples with growth
Letter: Commit to a sustainable future for Colorado (Michael Subialka)
Letter: Big Dog Gets Their Day (Woody Woodworth)

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Emergency Services

Emergency services in the Tri-Lakes area are delivered by a collection of special districts. For more on this topic...

Marshal Smith retires after 31 years
Letter: An emergency for emergency departments
Letter: Fishing with Jimmy and Mike
Letter: Palmer Lake: Vote "yes" on 2H
A Perspective on Our Community: A Life Saved!
North Group training burn held in Palmer Lake
Safety Fair helps locals prepare for emergencies
Letter: Monument Police State
Snapshots: PLVFD Ice Rescue Training
Snapshots: Emergency response class a great success, February 13
Monument Firefighters Association honors its own
Letter: Contribute to police officers’ memorial
Over 200 attend Safety Awareness Day
Emergency preparedness takes to the airwaves
Palmer Lake celebrates 70 years of volunteer firefighting
Tri-Lakes gets a look at Red Cross emergency vehicle
Credit union slammed with phishing scheme
Fire damages three businesses
Snapshots: Emergency communications field day, June 27
Smokey’s party, Aug. 8
Volunteers clean up the Santa Fe Trail
PLVFD Open House, Oct. 3
Snapshots: Fire Prevention Presentation at LPES, Oct. 8
Snapshots: Chili and star lighting draws record crowd, Nov. 28
Palmer Lake Volunteer Fire Department receives matching grant from Modern Woodmen of America
Letter: Agencies praised for compassion in search effort
Fire Protection Districts’ special elections, May 4
Fraud, ID theft seen in Tri-Lakes area
Keeping our children safe, May 18
Defensible space and Firewise annual checklist

For more articles on Tri-Lakes area emergency services, see also the Donald Wescott Fire Protection DistrictTri-Lakes Fire Protection District, Tri-Lakes-Monument Fire Authority, and the Woodmoor/Monument Fire Protection District topics. 

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Flying Horse Ranch

Flying Horse Ranch occupies 1,565 acres south of Northgate Road and west of Highway 83. Classic Communities is subdividing it to include 3,650 dwelling units on 708 acres, 244 acres of office and light industrial, 229 acres for a private golf course and conference center-resort, 100 acres of parks and open space, 95 acres of commercial and retail space, and an 80-acre K-12 school site. For more on this topic...

Planning commission Flying Horse Ranch hearing Aug. 7
Planning commission votes for Flying Horse Ranch Aug. 7

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Forest Lakes Proposal

El Paso County Commissioners have approved The Schuck Corporation's preliminary plan for the Forest Lakes Residential Project. The proposal, based on a sketch plan approved about 15 years ago, calls for 467 dwelling units on approximately 1,000 acres land near Baptist Road and Hay Creek Road west of I-25The plan calls for a clustered design with areas of urban density coupled with open space and recreational use of two lakes. For more on this topic...

County commissioners approve Forest Lakes metro district plans and Struthers Ranch rezoning
Judge upholds commissioners’ decision on Forest Lakes

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Forest View Acres Water District

The Forest View Acres Water District was established in 1957 by the late Hugh Nevins. From the initial provision of water to 27 homes, FVAWD currently provides water service to 280 residences in the Red Rocks Ranch, Clovenhoof, Villas, Sundance Estates, and Shiloh Pines neighborhoods in unincorporated El Paso County. In 2004, an embezzlement of at least $315,000 was discovered. For more on this topic...

Forest View Acres Water District, December 7: District increases fee, approves 2006 budget
Forest View Acres Water District, January 26: Board accepts resignation, ponders mysterious water loss
Forest View Acres Water District, February 23: 2.18 million gallons lost in January
Forest View Acres Water District, March 23: Residents object to $25 per month fee increase
Forest View Acres Water District, April 27: Residents object to fee increase; board considers proposing property tax
Forest View Acres Water District, May 25: Board ponders financing $6.2 million for improvements
Forest View Acres Water District, June 22: Unger pleads guilty, gives back $300,000
Forest View Acres Water District, July 27: District proposes property tax to fund improvements
Forest View Acres Water District, August 24: Board places property tax measure on the November ballot
Forest View Acres Water District, September 19: Walker resigns amid ballot measure controversy
Forest View Acres Water District, November 2: Community Solutions picked to operate system
Forest View Acres Water District, November 10: Board refines 2007 budget in light of election results
Forest View Acres water judged "best tasting in Colorado"
Forest View Acres: Best water to no water
Forest View Acres Water District Board of Directors, June 28: Residents propose volunteer committees to address issues
Forest View Acres Water District Board of Directors Meeting, July 26: Board wrestles with the role of volunteer committees
Forest View Acres Water District Board of Directors, August 23: District’s administration and operation contracts terminated
Letter: Forest View homeowner says contractor violated rights
Forest View Acres Water District, September 27: District seeks management and operations companies
Forest View Acres Water District, September 27, October 12, 19, and 25: District selects new management company
Forest View Acres Water District Board of Directors, July 22: Improvements to well, treatment plant planned

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Forestry

Many parts of the Tri-Lakes area are forested. OCN has carried information to help residents maintain forest health. For more on this topic...

How to dispose of branches, pine needles, and thinned trees
Healthy Forest Workshop Held April 16
Serving Our Community: Woodmoor’s Tree Monitors
Creating Wildfire-Defensible Zones
Fire Hazards and Forest Management
Tree diseases and insects
The beetles are here...Are you ready?
Fire Wise presentation April 16
FireWise seminar sends home message to be proactive
Tree Monitor’s Corner
Trees, bugs, and stuff
Forest Stewardship (Denny McNeill)
Defensible space and Firewise annual checklist

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Health and Wellness

OCN has carried a series of articles on various health and wellness topics. For more on this topic...

Second annual health and wellness fair Jan. 18
West Nile Virus in Colorado
HAP’s goals are good health and well being
Photos from The 2nd Annual Health and Wellness Fair, Jan. 17
Rabies alert issued for Tri-Lakes Area

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Heritage Grant

In 2001, local governmental bodies received a $50,000 grant to do area-wide planning. For more on this topic...

Heritage grant used to fund Tri-Lakes area studies
Regional planning work resumes, looks for a permanent home
Regional Planning Effort Shows Results

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High Country Highlights

Woody Woodworth provides information to assist the indoor and outdoor gardener...

Winter entertainment
Preventing snow damage
 Landscaping is for the birds
Building a new garden
Take steps to improve your lawn
Get in the zone!
How to garden in sun or shade
Help plants beat the heat
Garden planning for spring
How to garden in sun or shade
Early May gardening tips
Mulch 101
Help plants beat the heat
Deadheading your flowers
How Dry I Am
More fall gardening tips
November tips for gardeners
Ready, set, garden!
Tips on container gardening
How to attract hummingbirds
Making the best use of rainwater
Are your trees thirsty?
The well-diversified garden
Water now to prevent plant damage
Amending your soil
Springtime gardening tips
Perennials for summer color

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Home Place Ranch

This residential development proposes to 976 lots on 430 acres on the south side of Higby Road west of Higby Estates.  For more on this topic...

Monument Planning Commission, Jan. 12: Higher-density senior housing and Higby Road subdivision proposals previewed
Monument Board of Trustees, Jan. 18: Franchise fee dispute settled; Mountain View Electric to pay town $102,500
View and download information on the Home Place Ranch property and vicinity
Monument Planning Commission, Feb. 9: Plan presented for converting campground
Monument Board of Trustees, March 7: Two Jackson Creek developments discussed
Home Place Ranch Community Meeting, May 12: Concerns voiced about density, water, traffic
Home Place Ranch community meetings, February 21 and 22: Monument Planning Commission to consider Home Place Ranch Sketch Plan March 8

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I-25

Growth and development throughout the area has greatly increased the traffic on Interstate 25. Numerous changes to I-25 are being planned including the redesign of the State Highway 105, Baptist Road, and Northgate interchanges. How the changes to I-25 are handled will have a tremendous impact on Tri-Lakes area residents' quality of life. For more on this topic...

CDOT unveils proposed interchange designs
Second Street and I-25 on-ramp to be closed
Letters: Monument Express’ions
Letter: Why not use what we have? (Tim Watkins)
Monument exit improvements completed
Community support sought for sales tax to finance interchange improvements
Monument Board of Trustees, August 21: Open house held on Baptist Road interchange plans
Interchange contract award Oct. 3
Lawrence Construction picked for interchange work
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority, Dec. 12: 2009 budget approved, including interchange expansion
NEPCO meeting, Jan. 10: Homeowners’ associations get update on Baptist Road I-25 interchange
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority, Oct. 9: All Baptist Road bridge lanes opened
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority, Nov. 13: I-25 Baptist Road interchange completed for this year
BRRTA ceremony marks interchange milestone

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Information about Local Leaders

Our Community News has run articles in an on-going effort to acquaint residents with local leaders. For more on this topic...

Monument Candidates’ Statements
Palmer Lake Candidates’ Statements
Palmer Lake Candidates Night Mar. 25
Monica Deluca installed as ninth Monument postmaster

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Jackson Creek

Jackson Creek is one of the fastest growing areas within the Town of Monument. The Triview Metropolitan District supplies water, sewer, and road maintenance services to Jackson Creek. For more on this topic...

Important vote facing the Heights
Heights at Jackson Creek update
Heights at Jackson Creek vote to amend the covenants failed
Monument board approves Addition #5, Regency Park zoning plan, and Marketplace site plan July 21

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July 4th Celebrations

The Tri-Lakes area goes all-out in celebrating Independence Day. For more on this topic...

Photos of the July 4th Monument Parade and Street Fair
Star-Spangled Weekend
July 4th Photos
Tri-Lakes celebrates Independence Day
Letter: July 4th The Parade Winners
Tri-Lakes loves its independence
Letter: Tri-Lakes comes together
Tri-Lakes enjoys a fantastic 4th
Sibell’s Barn Dance: A July 4th tradition
A Hot Time in the Old Town!
Plan your 4th now
July 4 Community Events
The best small-town celebration in America!
Sibell’s barn dance, July 3
Palmer Lake Fun Run
Pancake Breakfast
Monument Parade
Monument Street Fair
Palmer Lake Fireworks, July 4
Olde Town Fair in Palmer Lake
Palmer Lake Tractor Pull, July 5
Get ready for a wonderful 4th!
Independence Day celebration
Snapshots: Independence Day Celebration
Letter: Fireworks? Now?

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Law Enforcement

OCN carries a series of articles on local law enforcement issues...

Share the holiday harvest 
Most asked questions
How to make the right call
Steve Burk promoted to Sergeant
Beware of "E-Audit" fraud
Monument Police participate in program for youth
Beware of Telemarketers Asking for Personal Financial Information
Help Prevent Mail Theft
Weed Violations
 Should that old vehicle be parked on your property?
 Safe shopping
 Cops for Kids
Reducing your risk of identity theft
NEPCO meeting April 5 featured Sheriff Maketa
Following municipal code: Community responsibility
Monument Police Advisory Committee Sept. 24
Crime prevention
There’s a reason for ordinances
AARP driver safety course
Sheriff’s office holds community meeting Apr. 6
Letter: Slow down!
 Arrests made for felony theft of baby formula from the Monument Wal-Mart
Letter: Fireworks lead to tragedy
Click It or Ticket enforcement focuses on rural Colorado
Letter: A speed trap in Palmer Lake?
Fraud, ID theft seen in Tri-Lakes area
Keeping our children safe, May 18
County candidates present their priorities

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Lewis-Palmer School District

The Lewis-Palmer District 38 School Board typically meets monthly. OCN reports on most of those meetings. For more on this topic...

Lewis-Palmer District 38 School Board Meeting, December 20: Board reaffirms plan to open PRHS in Fall 2008
Letter: D38 response to Farmers Market letter
Letter: Punish the innocent. Reward the guilty.
Lewis-Palmer District 38 School Board Meeting, January 17: Decision deferred on girls’ gymnastics program
Lewis-Palmer District 38 School Board Meeting, February 21: Board urged to propose mill levy override ballot measure
Lewis-Palmer District 38 School District Budget Summit, March 10: District plans November mill levy override ballot measure
Lewis-Palmer District 38 School Board Meeting, March 20: Board implementing policy governance
Snapshots: D-38 Chess Tournament, March 8
Palmer Lake community comes together
Lewis-Palmer District 38 School Board Meeting, April 17: Board continues implementing policy governance
Snapshots: MA construction, April 27
Lewis-Palmer District 38 School Board Meeting, May 15: Board encouraged to support theater arts
D-38 District Accountability Advisory Committee, May 13: Committee reviews budget and school programs
District 38 offers Big Red Saturdays for summer
Monument Academy short $1.2 million on funding for new building
Lewis-Palmer District 38 School Board Meeting, June 19: Retired teachers concerned about change in retiree health benefits; Staff recommends $2.7 million ballot measure
Letter: Why the Farmers Market moved
Monument Academy Board, July 15: Board gives update on new Academy school building
Lewis-Palmer District 38 School Board Special Meeting, July 24: Monument Academy building shortfall now estimated at $1.6 million; second bond issue planned
Update: Lawsuit filed by D-38 retirees
Monument Academy special board meeting, July 28: Board provides responses to D-38 concerns
Letter: Another side to Farmers Market issue
Letter: Disputing rumors about Monument Academy
Two new schools!
D-38 board approves ballot measure requesting $2.7 million; remains concerned about Monument Academy issues
Lewis-Palmer School District 38 MLO Summit, August 14: District administration recommends $2.7 million measure
Letter: District 38 deserves our support
Letter: Palmer Ridge traffic mess must be fixed
Letter: Retired teachers can join D-38 lawsuit
Letter: Former Monument Academy board member criticizes D-38 board
Lewis-Palmer District 38 School Board Meeting, September 18: Pike sworn in to fill board vacancy; Options 38 students and their parents discuss the program
District 38 Special Education Advisory Committee, Sept. 10: D-38 special education programs discussed
Letter: Vote for our future in education
Letter: Split up ballot proposals to give us a real choice
Letter: District 38 now deserves our support
Letter: Message from a school board member
Letter: Pass the MLO or face tough decisions
Letter: Monument mayor supports D-38 ballot measure
Letter: Thanks to those who made Palmer Ridge possible
Snapshots: Tie-Dyed walk, Sept. 26
Snapshots: LPHS Homecoming, Sept. 26
Lewis-Palmer District 38 School Board Meeting, October 16: D-38 receives $190,000 check for PRHS geothermal system
Children participate in Walk and Bike to School Day
Lewis-Palmer District 38 Special Education Advisory Committee, Oct. 8: Committee sets special education goals
Letter: Don’t bail out District 38
Letter: Investment in District 38 is worthwhile
Letter: Support the LPSD Mill Levy Override, vote yes on 3C
Letter: Invest in the schools
Summary of the November 4 election results
D-38 board workshop, Nov. 6, and regular meeting, Nov. 20: D-38 wrestles with further budget cuts
Lewis-Palmer School District 38 District Accountability Advisory Committee Meeting, Nov. 11: D-38 committee discusses School Improvement Plans
Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Special Education Advisory Committee Meeting, Nov. 12: Special-education panel discusses Web site, parental support activities
Lewis-Palmer District 38 School Board, Dec. 18: Second-graders make holiday presentation to the board
District 38 Special Education Advisory Committee meeting, Dec. 10: Special Education Advisory Committee plans programs for 2009
Weighted grades, school closure rumors discussed
Lewis-Palmer District 38 School Board, Jan. 15: Board discusses program promoting science, technology, engineering, and math
Special Education Advisory Committee, Jan. 14: Annual report on services completed
Lewis-Palmer District 38 Board of Education, Feb. 19: Teachers concerned about budget cuts
District Accountability Advisory Committee, Feb. 10: Panel discusses behavior survey, Palmer Ridge goals
Lewis Palmer School District 38 Special Education Advisory Committee, Feb. 11: SEAC discusses Resource Fair, school staffing
Special-education panel hears behavior analyst
Lewis Palmer School District Accountability Advisory Committee, March 10: Students learning Internet safety
Lewis Palmer School District Special Education Advisory Committee, March 11: Stimulus funding expected
Letter: Why not make physical education optional?
Snapshots: Chess tournament winners acknowledged, March 19
Snapshots: LPHS Serteens Club wins national award
Lewis-Palmer School District Accountability Advisory Committee, April 14: Community safety program coming to schools
Lewis Palmer School District Special Education Advisory Committee, April 8: Committee’s funds, goals discussed
Snapshots: Lewis-Palmer Elementary School No TV event, April 24
Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Board, May 21: Parents give varied opinions on preschool program
Lundeen retires
Lewis-Palmer School District 38 District Accountability Advisory Committee, May 12: School panel looks back at year’s issues
Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Special Education Advisory Committee, May 8: Panel evaluates achievements, changes meeting format
Snapshots: Special Education Resources Fair, May 2
Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Board, June 18: Four board seats up for election
Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Board, Aug. 20: Board hears support for private instruction
5 candidates for 4 seats
Lewis-Palmer School District 38 board, Sept. 17: Board discusses organization, funding
Lewis-Palmer School District Accountability Advisory Committee, Sept. 15: Committee discusses programs, goals
D-38 Special Education Advisory Committee, Sept. 9: School funding a major concern
Letter: Wilson gets board member’s support
Letter: Parent backs Wilson for School Board
Wilson wins reelection
Lewis-Palmer District 38 Board, Oct. 15: Blanch underscores technological advances
Lewis-Palmer School District Accountability Advisory Committee, Oct. 13: Great Education Colorado, Colorado Growth Model explained
Web site exclusive: D-38 Special Education Advisory Committee, Oct.14: Committee discusses priorities, vision with superintendent
Community summit on D-38 funding, Dec. 8, 10
Lewis-Palmer District 38 Board of Education, Nov. 19: New board member installed; budget process discussed
Lewis-Palmer School District Accountability Advisory Committee, Nov. 11: DAAC discusses ways to cut $5 million
Lewis-Palmer School District Special Education Advisory Committee, Nov. 11: Fleury seeks improved communication
Snapshots: Taste of Lewis-Palmer raises money for charities, Nov. 12
School District 38 Board of Education, Dec. 17: Board votes to close Grace Best, reconfigure others
D-38 Special Education Advisory Committee, Dec. 9: Committee discusses position statement, extended school year option
School District 38 Board of Education, Jan. 21 and 28: Additional school budget cuts considered
D-38 District Accountability Advisory Committee, Jan. 5: Budget reviewed before public survey
D-38 Special Education Advisory Committee, Jan. 13: Committee discusses response to intervention, position statement
Letter: The D-38 budget crisis: What really happened
Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Board of Education, Feb. 18: School Board discusses changes for upcoming school year
Lewis-Palmer District Accountability Advisory Committee, Feb. 9: Legislators are focus of school funding concerns
Lewis-Palmer Special Education Advisory Committee, Feb. 10: Superintendent responds to position statement
Lewis-Palmer D-38 Board of Education, March 4, 11 and 18: Board continues dialogue with community as it plans for coming year
D-38 District Accountability Advisory Committee, March 9: State Rep. Stephens responds to letter campaign at meeting
D-38 Special Education Advisory Committee, March 10: Committee discusses future plans, priorities
Lewis-Palmer School District 38 Board of Education, April 1, 8, 16, and 26: Board names new school, blocks departure of Monument Academy
D-38 District Accountability Advisory Committee, April 13: DAAC to create long-range planning task force
D-38 Special Education Advisory Committee, April 14: Differentiated and team teaching benefits explained
Letter: The D-38 "mess": One senior citizen’s perspective
Lewis-Palmer District 38 Board of Education, May 20: Board discusses outsourcing food service, hears public comments
Lewis-Palmer District 38 District Accountability Advisory Committee, May 11: Committee discusses long-term planning task force
Lewis-Palmer District 38 Special Education Advisory Committee, May 12: Principals’ panel addresses committee; board elected
Letter: Loss of Creekside school mourned
Letter: Get involved in local school issues
Snapshots: School gets pizza money for playground, April 30
D-38 Board of Education June 3, 17, and 22: Superintendent Blanch resigns; Borman appointed acting superintendent
D-38 picks Bauman as interim superintendent

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Library Events

The Tri-Lakes area is part of the Pikes Peak Library District that sponsors many events. For more on this topic...

Monument Library events for January and February 2008
Monument Library events for February and March 2008
March and April 2008 events at the library
April and May 2008 events at the library
May and June 2008 events at the library
June and July 2008 events at the library
July and August 2008 events at the library
August and September 2008 events at the library
Monument Library is Colorado Library of the Year
September and October 2008 events at the library
October and November 2008 events at the library
November and December 2008 events at the library
December 2008 and January 2009 events at the library
January and February 2009 library events
Event Feb. 28 marks anniversary of gold rush
Pikes Peak or Bust Winter Festival draws 900
February and March 2009 library events
Monument Library, March 14
March and April 2009 library events
April and May 2009 library events
May and June 2009 library events
June and July 2009 library events
July and August 2009 library events
August and September library events
September and October 2009 library events
October and November 2009 library events
November and December 2009 library events
December 2009 and January 2010 library events
January and February 2010 library events
February and March 2010 library events
March and April 2010 library events
April and May 2010 library events
May and June 2010 library events: Staff visits schools in anticipation of summer reading
June and July 2010 library events: Summer reading in full swing; big party planned
July and August 2010 library events: Summer reading ends with a gala event

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Local History

There are a variety of sources of fascinating local history. For more on this topic...

Palmer Lake Historical Society Feb. 21: History of the New Santa Fe Regional Trail
Snapshots: Games and Burros at the WMMI, March 28
Palmer Lake Historical Society, May 15: Colorado: A Liquid History of Pikes Peak Regional Pubs
Museum holds seminar on prospecting
Tri-Lakes Center for the Arts—10 years and counting
Chautauqua returns to Tri-Lakes
Palmer Lake Historical Society Ice Cream Social, June 15
Museum provides sights and sounds of power
Palmer Lake Historical Society, July 25: Estemere Mansion comes alive once again
Mining museum celebrates 26th anniversary
Chautauqua event recalls 19th-century gatherings
Burros’ birthday and bluegrass a blast
Palmer Lake Historical Society, September 18: Historical Society presents saga of "Italians in Colorado"
Western Museum of Mining and Industry, September 18: Farrar Art Collection on display at mining museum
Palmer Lake Historical Society, Oct. 16: Trombone Quintet entertains Historical Society
Western Museum of Mining and Industry, Oct. 11: Art and geology combine for fun experience at museum
Western Museum of Mining and Industry through Nov. 1: Haunted Mines offers thrills and chills to the adventurous
Palmer Lake Historical Society, Nov. 20: Historical Society hears about early Colorado railroading
Palmer Lake, Dec. 14: 75th annual Yule log hunt
Snapshots: Palmer Lake Yule Log Potluck Dinner, Dec. 9
Snapshots: Palmer Lake Yule Log Hunt, Dec. 14
Pikes Peak or Bust Winter Festival draws 900
Snapshots: Mining Museum Gold Party, Feb. 6
Historical Society hears presentation on museum and mining
Historical Society hears history of trolley system
Palmer Lake Historical Society, April 16: History of women’s fashion displayed
Palmer Lake Historical Society, May 21: Historical Society hears history of two early preachers
Snapshots: Western Mining Museum Rock Fair, June 20
Palmer Lake Historical Society, June 21: Historical Society sponsors Fathers’ Day gala
Civil War program, July 16; Chautauqua, August 7-9
Palmer Lake Historical Society, July 16: Historical Society relives Battle of Glorieta Pass
Chautauqua makes successful return
Palmer Lake Historical Society, Aug. 20: Trombone quintet serenades Historical Society
Palmer Lake Historical Society, Sept. 17: Local videographer documents history
Palmer Lake Historical Society, Oct. 15: Air Force Academy historian details Pike expeditions
Palmer Lake Historical Society, Nov. 19: Historian reveals history of USAFA grounds
Historical Society holds annual dinner, election
Palmer Lake Historical Society meeting, Feb. 18: The rebirth of Old Colorado City
Palmer Lake Historical Society Chautauqua meeting, Feb. 22: Historical Society begins Chautauqua planning
Palmer Lake Historical Society meeting, March 18: "A portrayal of Lucretia Vaile"
Geothermal lecture heats up museum, April 8
Palmer Lake Historical Society meeting, April 15: Evolution of the Denver & New Orleans Railroad
Palmer Lake Historical Society Chautauqua April meetings: Chuck Pyle accepts Chautauqua invitation
Palmer Lake Historical Society meeting, May 20: All aboard for Pikes Peak
Palmer Lake Historical Society Chautauqua May Planning Meetings: Boy Scouts volunteer to assist Chautauqua project
Crawford Memorial Planning Meeting, June 10: Memorial to honor military personnel in region
Palmer Lake Historical Society meeting, June 20: Hundreds attend Fathers’ Day Ice Cream Social
Crawford Memorial Planning Meeting, July 6 and July 20: Committee discusses redesign of Crawford Memorial site
Palmer Lake Historical Society meeting, July 15: Shamrock Ranch history presented
Historic Estemere mansion is for sale
Author criticizes Canadian oil sands project

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Monument Academy

The Monument Academy is a charter school within Lewis-Palmer District 38. For more on this topic...

Groundbreaking Oct. 12 for new Monument Academy building on Highway 105
Monument Academy Board of Directors, Oct. 15: School project to start soon and Correction
Monument Academy short $1.2 million on funding for new building
Monument Academy Board, July 15: Board gives update on new Academy school building
Lewis-Palmer District 38 School Board Special Meeting, July 24: Monument Academy building shortfall now estimated at $1.6 million; second bond issue planned
Monument Academy special board meeting, July 28: Board provides responses to D-38 concerns
Two new schools!
D-38 board approves ballot measure requesting $2.7 million; remains concerned about Monument Academy issues
Monument Academy Board meeting, Aug. 16: Steady progress reported toward opening school Sept. 8
Letter: Former Monument Academy board member criticizes D-38 board
MA holds ribbon-cutting ceremony, Sept. 13
Monument Academy Board of Education, Sept. 16: Bond sale closed; new school building opens on schedule
Lundeen retires
Monument Academy Board of Directors, April 21: Community likes idea of charter release
Monument Academy Board of Directors, May 12: School looks to outside consulting for reorganization help

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Monument Board of Trustees

The Town of Monument Board of Trustees typically holds two meetings per month. OCN reports on most of the meetings. For more on this topic...

Monument Board of Trustees, December 3: Board approves 2008 budget, expansion of church campus
Monument Board of Trustees, December 17: Five planning commissioners appointed
Letter: Monument Police State
Access roads approved across Santa Fe Trail
Monument Board of Trustees, January 7: Police officers awarded Distinguished Service Cross
Monument Board of Trustees, January 22: Progress announced on starting Baptist interchange work
Monument Board of Trustees, February 4: Willow Springs Ranch annexation and rezoning approved; sketch plan tabled
Monument Board of Trustees, February 19: Controversial sign ordinance expansion approved
Monument Board of Trustees, Mar. 3: Controversial Willow Springs Ranch sketch plan approved
Monument Board of Trustees meeting, Mar. 17: Monument election cancelled
Letter: Town official responds to stormwater report
Mitchell extension important for residents
Monument Board of Trustees, April 7: Board takes over highway
Monument Board of Trustees, April 21: Wakonda Meadows hearings postponed; Board approves increase in D-38 fees for new homes
Letter: Enough is enough
Monument Board of Trustees, May 5: Wakonda Meadows development annexed
Monument Board of Trustees, May 19: Progress of senior living center discussed
Monument Board of Trustees, June 2: No problems found in audit
Limbach Park band shell groundbreaking
Monument Board of Trustees, June 16: Residential variance fee reduced
Monument Board of Trustees, July 21: Village at Monument commercial filing rezoned residential
Monument Board of Trustees, Aug. 4: Expert reviews history of regional water issues
Monument Board of Trustees, Aug. 18: New police officer sworn in and four staff awards presented
Monument Board of Trustees, September 2: Sheriff asks board to support sales tax for public safety
Monument Board of Trustees, Oct. 6: New members appointed to Board of Adjustment and Planning Commission
Monument Board of Trustees, Oct. 20: Detective Mark Owens promoted to sergeant
Monument Board of Trustees meeting, Nov. 3: Downtown home-based occupation code changes approved
Monument Board of Trustees, Nov. 17: Ordinance to help pay for new Town Hall postponed
Monument Board of Trustees, Dec. 1: Ordinance to help pay for new Town Hall approved
Letter: Monument treasurer explains change in town hall funding cap
Monument Board of Trustees, Dec. 15: $7.5 million budget approved for 2009
Letter: Monument Mayor describes the State Of The Town
Monument Board of Trustees meeting, Jan. 5: Monument Marketplace Discount Tire plat approved
Monument Board of Trustees meeting, Feb. 2: Creation of Fountain Creek Watershed district endorsed
Letter: Tire store a good fit for Marketplace
Monument Board of Trustees, Feb. 17: Downtown Walgreens plat approved
Monument Board of Trustees, March 2: Arbor Mountain site plan approved
Monument Board of Trustees, March 16: Downtown Walgreens traffic flow options discussed
Letter: A shocking development
Letter: Walgreens approval disturbing
Monument Board of Trustees, April 6: Temporary supervision of Palmer Lake police approved
Monument Board of Trustees, April 20: Town Forum presentations engage citizens
Letter: Monument Board of Trustees lacks vision
Snapshots: New Monument Town Hall nears completion, April 29
Monument Board of Trustees, May 4: New summer event narrowly approved
Monument Board of Trustees, May 18: First board meeting held in new Town Hall
Monument Board of Trustees, June 1: Mayor Glenn leaves; Dominguez to serve as mayor for now
Snapshots: New Monument Town Hall Ribbon-Cutting, June 27
Monument Board of Trustees, July 6: Glenn resigns; Trustee Easton appointed mayor
Monument Board of Trustees, July 20: Streamlined building permit process approved
Monument Board of Trustees, Aug. 3: Kaiser appointed to vacant trustee seat
Monument Board of Trustees, Aug. 17: Gingrich appointed to vacant Planning Commission seat
Monument Board of Trustees, Sept. 8: Trustee Tim Miller resigns
Monument Board of Trustees, Sept. 21: Gingrich appointed to succeed Miller
Monument Board of Trustees, Oct. 5: Gingrich appointed to board
Board holds town hall meeting, Oct. 19
Letter: Articles called misleading
Editor’s note
Third street paving completed, Nov. 7
Monument Board of Trustees, Nov. 2: Officer joins Monument Police Department
Monument Board of Trustees, Nov. 16: FBI agents present award
Monument Board of Trustees, Dec. 7: 2010 budget narrowly approved
Monument Board of Trustees, Jan. 4: Board approves AutoZone store in Monument Ridge Center
Monument Board of Trustees, Jan. 19: Town employees can donate vacation time to Haiti
Monument Board of Trustees, March 1: Change in staffing for Triview requested
Monument Board of Trustees, March 15: New Jackson Creek elementary school playground proposed
Letter: Yes, it really is about water!
Letter: Easton for mayor
Town election results
Monument Board of Trustees, April 5: Triview maintenance agreement approved
Monument Board of Trustees, April 19: July the Third parade street closing approved
Monument Board of Trustees, May 3: Consultant research for proposed water purchase approved
Monument Board of Trustees, May 17: Fountain Mutual Irrigation water purchase canceled
Snapshots: Elected officials take office
Monument Board of Trustees, June 7: Restaurant owners receive Jim Moore Award
Monument Board of Trustees, June 21: Chief Shirk hosts promotion and awards ceremony
Monument Board of Trustees, July 19: Joint water plan gets preliminary approval
Monument Board of Trustees, Aug. 2: Water plans discussed

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Monument Comprehensive Plan

In Monument, a group of people worked with the Town Planning Department to update the Comprehensive Plan that is intended to guide the development of Monument. For more on this topic...

Many dissatisfied with comp plan committee final meeting
Triview metro board objects to comp plan update
Monument planning commission hearing on Marketplace proposal June 11
Monument Planning Commission ponders comprehensive plan and Marketplace proposal
Monument planning commission looks at possible heavy industrial area, recommends approval of Marketplace
Monument planning commission approved updated comprehensive plan Aug. 13

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Monument Dam and Lake

In 1995, the State Dam Inspector recommended repairs be made to the Monument Dam. For more on this topic...

Controversial Monument Lake shoreline agreement approved, connection to trustee recall suggested
Monument wins award for dam

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Monument Marketplace

In March 2003, plans were unveiled for a large retail center (originally called Monument Towne Center) in the Jackson Creek development. The 90+-acre parcel is between the eastern edge of I-25 and the northern extension of Jackson Creek Parkway. It is about half way from Baptist Road to Lewis-Palmer High School (see vicinity map and site plan). The proposed Monument Towne Center would include over 600,000 square feet of destination retail and nearly 4,000 parking spaces. The site is within the Town of Monument and within the Triview Metropolitan District, which would supply water and sewer services. For more on this topic...

Major big box retail center proposed for Jackson Creek
Monument planning commission hearing on Marketplace proposal June 11
July 21 hearing on the Marketplace proposal
Monument Planning Commission ponders comprehensive plan and Marketplace proposal
Triview Metro board approves Marketplace funding
Perspective on Our Community: Wal-Mart vs. The Monument Marketplace - What’s the difference?
Monument board approves Addition #5, Regency Park zoning plan, and Marketplace site plan July 21
Monument planning commission looks at possible heavy industrial area, recommends approval of Marketplace
Letter: Open Letter to the Monument Board of Trustees
Wal-Mart among likely new Monument Marketplace tenants

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Monument Parks and Landscape, Police Advisory, and Public Works Committees

The Monument Parks and Landscape, Police Advisory, and Public Works committees meets periodically to consider ways to improve the appearance and address the police and infrastructure needs of various areas of the town. For more on this topic...

Monument Parks and Landscape Committee
Monument Parks and Landscape meeting June 10
Monument Public Works meeting July 2
Monument parks and landscape committee reviewed streetscape plans for downtown July 8
Monument parks and landscape meeting Aug. 12
Monument Parks and Landscape Committee Sept. 9
Monument Parks and Landscape Committee Oct. 14
Monument Parks and Landscape Committee Nov. 11
Monument Parks and Landscape Committee Dec. 8
Monument Parks and Landscape meeting Jan. 13
Monument Parks and Landscape Committee Feb. 10
Monument Police Advisory Committee meeting Mar. 31
Monument Park and Landscape meeting Apr. 12
Monument Parks and Landscape Committee May 11
Monument Police Advisory Committee meeting May 26
Monument Parks and Landscape Committee June 8
Monument Police Advisory Committee meeting July 28
Monument Parks and Landscape Committee Aug. 10
Monument Parks and Landscape, Sept. 14
Monument Parks and Landscape, Oct. 12
Monument Parks and Landscape, Nov. 9
Monument Police Advisory Committee, Dec. 6
Monument Parks and Landscape Committee, March 8: Group reconvenes after four-month hiatus
Monument Parks and Landscape Committee, April 12: Committee redefines its role
Monument Parks and Landscape Committee, October 13: Committee holds final meeting, may regroup

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Monument Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment

The Monument Planning Commission typically meets monthly. The Monument Board of Adjustment meets as needed. Both make recommendations to the Board of Trustees regarding land use decisons. OCN reports on most of those meetings. For more on this topic...

Monument Planning Commission, January 9: Willow Springs plans narrowly approved
Monument Planning Commission, February 13: YMCA parcel replat, Empirical Testing site plan approved
Monument Planning Commission meeting, Mar. 12: Wakonda Meadows annexation, rezoning, and sketch plan approved
Monument Planning Commission, April 9: Blue Kona building plan approved
Monument Planning Commission, June 11: Commercial filing of Village at Monument rezoned to residential
Monument Board of Adjustments, July 10: Variance for rear deck glass sunroom approved
Monument Planning Commission, Oct. 8: New downtown design guidelines approved
Monument Planning Commission, Dec. 10: Plat for tire store rejected
Monument Planning Commission meeting, Jan. 14: Downtown Walgreens hearing continued again
Letter: Tire store a good fit for Marketplace
Monument Planning Commission meeting, Feb. 11: Downtown Walgreens final plat and Arbor Mountain site plan approved
Monument Planning Commission, March 9: Replat for Arbor Mountain senior facility approved
Monument Planning Commission, May 13: Rod Smith Business Park approved
Monument Planning Commission, June 10: Commissioners approve Monument Marketplace plat
Monument Planning Commission, Aug. 12: Extensive changes to fence regulations approved
Monument Planning Commission, Oct. 14: Regulation of medical marijuana dispensaries approved
Monument Planning Commission, Nov. 10: Monument Ridge plans approved
Monument Planning Commission, Dec. 9: AutoZone site approved for Monument Ridge center
Monument Planning Commission, Jan. 13: Planning code amendments approved
Monument Planning Commission, March 10: A full house once again
Monument Planning Commission, April 14: Village Center at Woodmoor amendment approved
Monument Planning Commission, May 12: Monument Marketplace auto repair shop plat approved
Monument Planning Commission, July 14: Two new buildings planned for business park

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Monument Preserve

Enjoying our trails responsibly
Time for Friends
Join in an archeology survey June 21

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Monument Recall Election

Following the April 2001 firing of Monument Police Chief Al Sharon, a campaign was launched which resulted in the September 11th recall of Mayor Leon Tenney and Trustees Morgan, Schutz, and Wilcox. For more on this topic...

The Monument Recall
The Recall Protest Hearing
Letter: In Support of Glenda Smith
Recall Appeal Filed
Letter from Trustee Morgan
Letter: Open Letter to Monument
Six Good People
Our Community Views
Controversial Monument Lake shoreline agreement approved, connection to trustee recall suggested

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Monument Sanitation District

Sewer service in the Town of Monument is not provided by the town government. Service for the east and south are provided by the Triview Metropolitan District. Service for the west and north are provided by the Monument Sanitation District. For more on the Monument Sanitation District...

Monument Sanitation District board, December 20: District mill levy eliminated; all debt paid off
Monument Sanitation District Board, February 21: Willow Springs Ranch development included
Monument Sanitation District Board, June 24: Pollution control costs could increase from $1.5 million to $25 million
Monument Sanitation District Board meeting, July 17: Tighter restrictions on Tri-Lakes Wastewater Facility may lead to district rate increase
Monument Sanitation District Board meeting, September 25: Board bans installation of copper water pipes
Monument Sanitation District Board meeting, Nov. 20: 2009 budget approved
Monument Sanitation District special board meeting, Feb. 6: Board to consider fee increase amid revenue dip
Monument Sanitation District board, Feb. 19: Board approves user fee increases
Monument Sanitation District Board meeting, March 19: Preliminary engineering report for Wakonda Hills expansion approved
Monument Sanitation District Board, May 21: Stimulus funding recommended for Wakonda Hills
Monument Sanitation District Board, June 18: Federal stimulus funding for Wakonda Hills still on track
Monument Sanitation District board, July 16: Public hearing held for $2 million stimulus loan application
Monument Sanitation District board, Aug. 20: District approved for $2.4 million in stimulus loans
Monument Sanitation District Board, Sept. 24: Wakonda Hills stimulus project begins
Monument Sanitation District board, Oct. 22: Change in cost-sharing rules could spur fee hike
Monument Sanitation District board, Nov. 19: 2010 budget options proposed
Monument Sanitation District Board, Dec. 17: Residential fees increase $3 per month beginning April 1
Monument Sanitation District Board, Jan. 21: Wakonda Hills project on winter break
Monument Sanitation District, Feb. 18: Wakonda Hills tap fees will increase Oct. 1
Monument Sanitation District, March 18: District purchases its first utility vehicle
Monument Sanitation District, April 15: Construction to resume for Wakonda Hills collection system expansion
Monument Sanitation District, May 20: Board elects officers
Monument Sanitation District, June 17: Wakonda Hills lift station contract awarded
Monument Sanitation District, July 15: Wakonda Hills pipeline installation concluding

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Nature of Our Community

OCN carries a series of articles on the flora and fauna of the Tri-Lakes area...

Aspens—not just another pretty leaf
Aspens—Quaking in their roots
The Monument Pronghorn - and then there were two...
Did You Know...?
Bear on the Loose
Be on the lookout for beetles

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NEPCO

NEPCO is an acronym for the Northern El Paso County Coalition of Community Associations. NEPCO is a coalition of homeowners’ associations. In less than one year as an organization, NEPCO has grown to include 20 homeowners’ associations representing about 15,000 residents in the Tri-Lakes area. NEPCO’s mission is to enhance the quality of life of its member associations and their residents in a wide variety of areas. For more on this topic...

NEPCO elects new board members
NEPCO meeting Feb. 1 features commissioner Williams
NEPCO meeting April 5 featured Sheriff Maketa
NEPCO meeting Oct. 4 featured Commissioner Williams
May 8 NEPCO meeting featured discussion of county and Monument planning
NEPCO highlights HOA best practices
NEPCO Annual Meeting, Oct. 2
NEPCO meeting Dec. 4 featured Commissioner Williams
NEPCO, November 12: Homeowners associations to comment on proposed developments
NEPCO meeting, January 12: Schueler presents information on special districts
NEPCO meeting, Jan. 10: Homeowners’ associations get update on Baptist Road I-25 interchange
Snapshots: NEPCO discusses HOA legal issues, Sept. 12

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On the Trail

Many Coloradans enjoy recreation in the great outdoors. For more on this topic...

Limbaugh Thrills and Spills
Trail Daze
Winter Trail Tips
Be mindful of where you are
Limbaugh Trail still requires alternate route
Trails still snow-covered or wet
Fox Run Regional Park
Treat our suffering trails with care

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Palmer Lake Sanitation District

For more on this topic...

Palmer Lake Sanitation District, June 14: District copes with loss of Bonnie Hanson
Palmer Lake Sanitation District, July 12: Board announces staff reorganization
Palmer Lake Sanitation District Board Election Canceled
Palmer Lake Sanitation District, September 12: Board plans hearing on Lake of the Rockies inclusion
Stallsmith's service recognized
Palmer Lake Sanitation District Board, Nov. 11: Monthly rates will increase; Dale Smith named to board
Palmer Lake Sanitation District, Dec. 9: Smith sworn in

Palmer Lake Sports

For more on this topic..

Letter: A Better Life, Sport, Arts, and Education
Letter: Tennis Anyone?
Tennis center exploring expansion in Larkspur
Kids’ tennis
WinterFest: The cool side of frigid weather!
Winterfest coming Feb. 14

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Palmer Lake Town Council and Planning Commission

The Town of Palmer Lake Board of Trustees is commonly called the Town Council. They typically hold one workshop and one meeting per month. OCN reports on most of those meetings. For more on this topic...

Palmer Lake Town Council, December 13: Town approves water rate increase, 3 new hires
Palmer Lake Town Council, March 13: Council seeks new town water attorney
Palmer Lake Town Council, April 14: Group presents concerns about drilling
Palmer Lake Town Council, May 8: New council makes appointments
Palmer Lake Planning Commission, May 21: County’s Palmer Lake master plan amendment adopted
Palmer Lake Town Council, June 12 and July 2: Vacant trustee seat filled
Palmer Lake Town Council, July 10: Vacancies filled on council and planning commission
Palmer Lake Town Council, Aug. 14: Council faces decisions on water
Palmer Lake celebrates 70 years of volunteer firefighting
Palmer Lake water treatment plant requires $1.9 million upgrade
Palmer Lake approves water rate hikes
Palmer Lake Town Council, Dec. 11 Town adopts budget, pursues road takeover
Palmer Lake Town Council, Jan. 8: Participation in watershed district discussed
Police chief Ferrin placed on administrative leave
Palmer Lake Town Council, Feb. 12: Police chief Ferrin resigns
Palmer Lake Town Council workshop, March 5: Forum focuses on police budget concerns
Palmer Lake Town Council, March 12: Town proceeding with audit to evaluate policies
Palmer Lake Town Council, April 2: Loan sought for water treatment improvements
Palmer Lake Town Council, April 9: Continued supervision by Monument police chief approved
Palmer Lake Town Council, May 14: Scout does his part to improve town park
Palmer Lake Town Council, June 11: Both wells pumping as town awaits plant upgrade
Palmer Lake Town Council, July 9: Loan for water treatment plant formally approved
Palmer Lake Town Council, Aug. 6: Search begins for new police chief and admin assistant
Palmer Lake Town Council meeting, Sept. 10: Final Lucy Owens Fund payment decision deferred
PLVFD Open House, Oct. 3
Palmer Lake Town Council, Oct. 8: Town survey extended to Nov. 30
Letter: Articles called misleading
Editor’s note
Palmer Lake Town Council, Nov. 12: Vote on water rate increase delayed
Palmer Lake Town Council special meeting, Dec. 3: Water rates increased to pay for plant expansion loan; Moreland sworn in as police chief
Palmer Lake Town Council regular meeting, Dec.10: 2010 budget approved
Letter: Chili Supper raises $5,590
Palmer Lake Volunteer Fire Department receives matching grant from Modern Woodmen of America
Palmer Lake Town Council, Jan.14: New fire chief sworn in
Palmer Lake Town Council special meeting, Jan. 21: Medical marijuana moratorium approved for 90 days
Palmer Lake Town Council, Feb. 11: Town survey results presented
Palmer Lake Town Council, March 11: New fire department protocols being developed
Town election results
Palmer Lake Town Council, May 13: Marijuana ordinance amendment tabled
Palmer Lake Medical Marijuana Task Force, June 2: Neighbors complain about location of potential dispensary
Snapshots: Elected officials take office
Snapshots: Palmer Lake Medical Marijuana Taskforce meeting
Palmer Lake Town Council, June 10: Council approves replacement medical marijuana ordinance and three dispensary licenses
Palmer Lake Town Council, July 8: Medical marijuana cultivation space approved

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Perspective on Our Community

These columns provide opinions on Tri-Lakes area issues.

Don’t shoot the messenger
Where do we go from here?
Monument Express Bus Service: Use it or lose it
Wal-Mart vs. Monument Marketplace: What’s the difference?
Conduct Unbecoming
 Lessons yet to be learned
A Life Saved!
Linda Pankratz
Proposed gas drilling poses risk to Monument Preserve
Things HOAs can do to help the water situation
Kill the umpire — or is it the referee?
Congress shows its disconnect again
Phil Steininger to retire from water district
Are we running out of water?
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Pollution

The Tri-Lakes environment is threatened by many types of pollution. There are steps residents and business owners can take to help. For more on this topic...

Star Wars: Combating light pollution
Indoor air pollution
Light Pollution, Part I
Letter: Travelin’ Time
Light Pollution, Part II: Light Trespass
Letters: Monument Express’ions
Letter: Why not use what we have? (Tim Watkins)
Monument Express Bus Service: Use it or lose it
Light Pollution, Part 3: Its Costs
Expert details extensive use and production of toxic chemicals in natural gas production
Corrections to article on toxic chemicals used in gas drilling
Stop at the Click: Save fuel and the environment

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Property Taxes and Special Districts

While sales and income taxes are well understood, many have questions about property taxes, mill levies, and special districts. For more on this topic...

Property Taxes
Joe Beggs to Differ: Just how special are these districts?
Joe Beggs to Differ: The Woodmoor Water and Sanitation District
Triview Metro District votes property tax increase for Jackson Creek
Joe Beggs to Differ: The Triview Metropolitan District
Joe Beggs to Differ: Residents of Jackson Creek - Some facts that may interest you
NEPCO meeting, January 12: Schueler presents information on special districts
After 16 years, TABOR still brings out strong feelings on both sides

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Recycling

OCN has been carrying information for Tri-Lakes area residents on how to properly dispose of unwanted items and remove wildfire fuel. Sites for recycling plants is also a local issue. For more on this topic...

How to dispose of branches, pine needles, and thinned trees
Recycling in the Tri-Lakes Area
County now accepting batteries and electronics at waste facility
Letter: Oh where, oh where?
Ewaste event, Feb. 14

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Reflections

OCN has carried a series of musings on life by Tri-Lakes area residents. For more on this topic...

The Last Firsts
Missing Them
The Protractor Factor
Only with Her Permission
Honey or Champ
The Male Vocabulary
It Ain’t Yo Mama’s Saks
Forget French!
Burning Down the House
Scratching that Genetic Itch
Of dolls and hermit crabs
My quest for an umbrella stand
A Care Bear Color Wheel
The Cliffs Notes version, please
Drowning in Electrons
Meeting Lorna: first lessons in sign language

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Roadwork

Roads throughout the Tri-Lakes area are a critical element of the infrastructure. For example, in Monument 2nd Street is has been extended from Beacon Lite Road to connect with the Highway 105 bridge over I-25. Also Beacon Lite Road has been extended to connect with the Old Denver Highway. Jackson Creek Parkway has been constructed from Highway 105 to Higby. For more on these and other road stories...

On the Roads: Baptist Rd. and Struthers Rd. project construction update
On the Roads: Status of Baptist Road construction
NEPCO meeting, Jan. 10: Homeowners’ associations get update on Baptist Road I-25 interchange
Beacon Lite Rd. meeting, Sept. 22
Beacon Lite Road Improvements Community Meeting, Sept. 22: County officials get residents’ input on road upgrade
Third street paving completed, Nov. 7
Baptist Road Rural Transportation Authority, Nov. 13: I-25 Baptist Road interchange completed for this year
BRRTA ceremony marks interchange milestone

See also coverage on Baptist Road and I-25

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Service Organizations

The Tri-Lakes area is blessed with a variety of service organizations. Here is information on some of them and their activities:

SERTOMA honors Ted Bauman and Linda and Richard Pankratz
Letter: Sertoma Red Kettle Campaign rings up donations
Letter: Thank you
Snapshots: Gleneagle Sertoma enjoys Spirits of Spring
Snapshots: District and Regional Leadership Roles Go to Gleneagle Sertomans
Snapshots: Power of Trees
Snapshots: Cruisers car show, June 8
Snapshots: Angels don’t just come at Christmas
Snapshots: Tri-Lakes Women’s Club presents check to Tri-Lakes Community Preschool
9-11 remembered
Snapshots: TLCA receives TLWC grant
Letter: Many thanks from the Women’s Club
Empty Bowl brings community together to help those in need
Snapshots: Tri-Lakes Women’s Club holds Wine and Roses event, Oct. 18
Snapshots: Volunteers gather gifts for reservation children
Snapshots: Gleneagle Women’s Club Arts and Crafts Show, Nov. 21
Snapshots: Record crowd enjoys Palmer Lake chili supper, Nov. 29
Snapshots: Sertoma gives dictionaries to third graders
Snapshots: It’s Red Kettle time - Please give generously
Tri-Lakes Cares sees increased need in the community
Letter: Generous community fills up Red Kettles
Johnson and Maguire receive Sertoma awards
Tri-Lakes Cares Electronics Recycling Event, Feb. 14
Ewaste event, Feb. 14
Snapshots: LPHS Serteens Club wins national award
Letter: Cops for Kids’ donation appreciated
Letter: Women’s Club thanks many
Snapshots: Pine Forest Antique Show attracts crowd, May 2
Snapshots: Gleneagle Sertoma Spirits of Spring, May 9
Snapshots: Gleneagle Spirit 5K Run/Walk, May 16
Red Cross needs volunteers for emergency shelters
Senior center opens in Monument
Letter: Serteens at your service
Tri-Lakes Cares names Swanson Executive Director; holds events Sept. 19
Everyone a winner at Tri-Lakes Non-Profit Day
Empty Bowl fundraiser returns Oct. 7
Volunteers clean up the Santa Fe Trail
Snapshots: Tri-Lakes Cares’ thrift shop grand opening, Sept. 18
Snapshots: Monument Hill Sertomans clean up I-25, Sept. 19
Taste the wine, smell the roses
Letter: Heartfelt thanks from the Tri-Lakes Women’s Club
Snapshots: Tri-Lakes Women’s Club Coffee and Chatter, Oct. 5
Snapshots: Wells Fargo presents grant to Senior Alliance, Oct. 15
Empty Bowl filled with compassion for those in need
Hundreds contribute to Wine and Roses
Health Fair provides low-cost screenings for many, Oct. 24
Watch for the Red Kettles
Letter: Tri-Lakes community bands together
Snapshots: VFW Post 7829 Patriot’s Pen Awards, Nov. 16
Snapshots: Chili and star lighting draws record crowd, Nov. 28
Snapshots: Tri-Lakes Women’s Club presents grant to Boy Scouts
Snapshots: Group donates knitted items to Urban Peak
Holiday powwow benefits Native Americans
Palmer Lake Volunteer Fire Department receives matching grant from Modern Woodmen of America
Letter: Sertoma Club changing affiliation to Kiwanis
Letter: Thanks for donations to Sertoma
Snapshots: Blood drive at Tri-Lakes Cares, Jan. 19
Snapshots: Kinney named Monument Hill Sertoman of the year
Snapshots: Fundraiser held to help fight child blindness
Letter: Fundraiser for son appreciated
Snapshots: TLWC honors past presidents, Feb. 4
Snapshots: TLWC holds travel seminar, Feb. 10
Snapshots: Lake Ice hosts troops for fishing on Monument Lake
Snapshots: Senior Alliance Thrift Store Grand Opening, Mar. 22
Chamber presents awards to those who made a difference
Tri-Lakes Cares to benefit from art sale
Legacy Sertoma Club holds first meeting, April 8
Thrift shop pays back Tri-Lakes Cares, April 22
Vendors brave snowstorm to participate in Antiques Show
Letter: Thanks for Pine Forest Antiques Show support
Snapshots: TLWC ends the year with sunflowers and cake
Snapshots: Gleneagle Sertoma’s "Spirits of Spring" raises $9,085 for charities, May 22
Snapshots: Monument Hill Sertoma cleans up I-25, May 2
Gleneagle Sertoma Club elects officers

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Sunshine Laws

Colorado State Statute 24-6-402 is known as the Open Meetings Law or the Meetings section of the Sunshine Law. Much misinformation has circulated about the statute and its application. For more on this topic...

Letter: Sunshine Law Rumor vs. Fact
Closed door ambulance service meeting ended in stalemate
Letter: Sunshine Law Revisited

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Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District

The TLFPD was formed to serve El Paso County areas outside Woodmoor and Monument and north of Baptist Road that are predominantly without hydrants. In January 2008, the  name was changed from the Tri-Lakes FPD to the Tri-Lakes Monument FPD to recognize the inclusion of the former Woodmoor/Monument FPD. For more on this topic...

Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, January 23: Miller elected president of new district’s board
Fire ban issued
Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, April 23: Election attracts a surprising number of candidates
Tri-Lakes Monument FPD Candidate Statements
Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, May 28: New board members challenged on their comments, motives
Clarifying fire district issues
Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, July 23: Budget review shows hiring more firefighters may not be possible
Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District Board members
Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Sept. 24: Fire truck heavily damaged in accident
Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Dec. 10: Tri-Lakes to provide ambulance service for Palmer Lake
Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Jan. 28: Ups and downs of economy affected ‘08 budget
Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Feb. 25: Battalion chief recounts difficult night at house fire
Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, March 25: Resolution to radio problems taking time
Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, April 22: Pay changed to hourly
Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, June 24: Some district personnel getting a new home
Grasses and weeds pose fire risk
Thompson gets the axe July 10
Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Aug. 26: Board gets update on arrested firefighter
Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District board, Sept. 23: District offers fire mitigation recommendations
Snapshots: Fire Prevention Presentation at LPES, Oct. 8
Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District, Nov. 18: District will pursue federal grant for staffing
Tri-Lakes Monument Fire Protection District Board, Dec. 9: 2010 budget approved; funds authorized
Tri-La