Good morning, Pueblo.

Pueblo Zoo officials said yesterday that the zoo is facing a budget shortfall which could lead to closure in three to four years if funding drops — the zoo may lose accreditation next cycle, and the city will put a sales tax increase on the November ballot to help cover the deficit.

On Wednesday, Aug. 20, the City of Pueblo will join about 50 volunteers from the Corporate Cup teams in the Togetherhood Project to paint two income-qualifying homes in Bessemer and Eastside, as part of a partnership with the YMCA, Pueblo Urban Renewal Authority and Baha Construction. The project will preserve aging housing—backed by in-kind donations from Lowe’s and The Home Depot—and support families in need.

Stephen Chan called 911 in September 2024 to report he had killed his wife and was arrested after police located his call from Walsen Road near Monument—on Aug.

15, he was found guilty of first-degree murder, kidnapping, and assault by strangulation and was sentenced to life in prison with extra years for the assault and kidnapping charges.

CSU Pueblo will offer in-state tuition to students from 10 neighboring states and five countries starting this fall—saving about $5,000 per semester for out-of-state students.

The university got approval from the CSU Board of Governors last year and expects to boost enrollment.

Fire Station 11 opened on the northwest side of Pueblo to improve response times and keep firefighters safe by incorporating a decontamination area — a facility that cost over $12 million.

Additional stations will open by September 12 and by the end of November to serve the growing area.

Colorado State Fair

August 21st to September 1st — Colorado State Fairgrounds — Entry fee required — Experience thrilling rides, delicious food, and countless vendors at this beloved annual event.

Discount Carnival

3-11:30 p.m. — 1001 Beulah Ave, Pueblo, CO — $32 All-Day Pass — Experience an exciting range of carnival rides and activities at the Discount Carnival.

Open House Event

5-8 p.m. — 2074 Oriole Rd — Free entry — Discover a beautifully renovated ranch-style home perfect for family living in Pueblo County.

Gabriel Iglesias Stand-Up Comedy Show

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Colorado State Fairgrounds — Ticket prices vary — Experience the hilarious antics of Gabriel 'Fluffy' Iglesias, a comedic sensation known for his side-splitting performances.

Colorado State Fair

3-6 p.m. — Colorado State Fairgrounds — Free with fair admission — Experience the excitement of the Mountain States Ranch Rodeo followed by a concert featuring Ned Ledoux.

Monster Truck Show

1-4 p.m. — Colorado State Fairgrounds — Family friendly — Families can watch monster trucks soar during this thrilling show.

Celebration of Los Charros

7-10 p.m. — Colorado State Fairgrounds — Check for ticket prices — Enjoy the electrifying norteña rhythms of Los Huracanes del Norte as they perform live.

Colorado State Fair Gate Admission

11:59 p.m. — Colorado State Fairgrounds — Ticket prices vary — Experience the excitement of the Colorado State Fair in Pueblo.

Fort Hays State Tigers vs. CSU Pueblo Thunderwolves Football

6-7:30 p.m. — Neta and Eddie DeRose Thunderbowl Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Experience live college football action as the Tigers take on the Thunderwolves.

Furniture as Art Opening featuring Joe Castle and Wendy Klemperer

12-5 p.m. — Blo Back Gallery — Free entry — Explore innovative sculptures and furniture designs by talented artists Joe Castle and Wendy Klemperer.