Fishing derby date announced The 2026 Palmer Lake Kids Fishing Derby has been scheduled for June 6 at the town’s namesake lake. More information will be released as the date draws nearer. Hosted and organized by the Tri-Lakes Lions Club, the event draws young anglers from across El Paso Coun ty and farther, many of whom are trying out fishing for the first time. Children ages 4-14 are eligible to participate between three separate age groups, with prizes awarded to those who catch the longest fish in their age group. According to Jim Hazuka of the Tri-Lakes Lions Club, 352 kids registered for the 2025 derby. With nearly 200 parents and dozens of volunteers and onlookers, the crowd swelled to around 600 people. Community grants available The Gleneagle Sertoma Club is inviting local nonprofits to apply for newly available community grant funding. A generous benefactor has provided resources to be distributed “where needed most.” Eligible nonprofits should support one or more of the following areas: hearing health, youth programs, or services for military families, veterans, or first responders. The club is seeking to finance projects of $2,500 to $20,000 that will make a lasting impact on execution of the receiving organization’s mission, demonstrating meaningful community benefit. Priority will be given to organizations located in, or serving, northern El Paso County. Organizations are asked to request an application form by email at [email protected] . Applications recommended by the sponsorship committee will be reviewed by the club’s board for approval. Applications received by March 15 will be reviewed for consideration, with grants to be awarded starting May 15. Traffic deaths Following two years of declining fatalities, traffic deaths in Colorado increased in 2025. Data released last week by the Colorado Department of Transportation shows 701 people were killed on Colorado roadways in 2025, up from 689 in 2024. Biggest increases were seen in Bicycle deaths, which at 18 was a 29% increase from last year, and impaired deaths (235), which saw an 11% increase. Cameras assist in DougCo arrest Douglas County deputies said Flock Safety cameras were critical in an investigation that led to the arrest of a road rage shooting suspect last week. It was not immediately clear what led to the shooting, but deputies said Weber shot the victim’s vehicle multiple times. The victim, however, was not injured. A Flock camera helped deputies identify the suspect vehicle, ultimately leading to Weber’s arrest, authorities said. Deputies also credited community members with providing information that helped lead investigators to Weber. “I am extremely proud of the relentless dedication shown by our deputies and investigators,” Douglas County Sheriff Darren Weekly said in a release announcing the arrest. “Their tireless work, professionalism, and commitment to public safety — combined with effective use of technology and strong community support — allowed us to quickly identify the suspect and take him into custody. This is outstanding police work.” Weber is being held on suspicion of attempted first-degree murder and illegal discharge of a firearm, authorities said. It’s the second time in less than a week that Douglas County deputies credited Flock cameras with assisting in an arrest of a 43-year-old suspect accused of firing a weapon in the county. The vehicle of an armed carjacking suspect was identified by a Flock camera on Jan. 12 leading to a chase through Highlands Ranch and a shootout with deputies in Littleton. The suspect in that case, Daniel Reynaldo Tolentino, was wounded and taken into custody. Tolentino faces attempted first-degree murder of a peace officer, aggravated robbery and felony menacing in the separate case. Education accolades Zachary Cantorna of Monument earned 2025 fall semester academic honors at Nebraska Wesleyan University on Lincoln, Neb. Sarah Sanville of Monument graduated from Vermont State University in December. New Colorado stamp The U.S. Postal Service commemorated the 150th anniversary of Colorado becoming a state with the issuance of Colorado Statehood, a Forever stamp featuring a photograph of Jagged Mountain by nature photographer John Fielder. The first-day-of-issue event was held on Jan. 24. The stamp unveiling was being held in conjunction with History Colorado Center’s opening of the “Mountains Majesty: On the Summit with John Fielder” exhibition. ...read more read less