Good morning, Fort Collins.

The Colorado Department of Transportation reported fatal crashes dropped 21% from January to April 2024 compared to the same period last year—new laws banning handheld phone use and updated child passenger safety rules along with stronger enforcement helped lower numbers in counties like Larimer and Boulder, though officials warn that every crash is still one too many.

Colorado's Universal Preschool Program more than doubled preschool enrollment for 3- and 4-year-olds in 2023-24, with nearly 70% of eligible 4-year-olds enrolling and the state moving from 27th to third nationally.

Enrollment increased by 31,277 children from last year and families saved an average of $6,100 a year (approved as Proposition EE in November 2020) while registration for the 2025-26 school year remains open (direct enrollment is available).

Larimer County released its first annual report for the Climate Smart Future Ready Plan, showing progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting the natural environment—18 action teams worked with 50 community partners and 10 county departments.

The report highlights seven focus areas that will guide the five-year initiative launched in 2024 as the county builds a more resilient future.

The Larimer County Sheriff’s Office wildland fire team now has 20 full-time members after adding 11 new staff and has rebranded as the Phantom Canyon Crew—named for a local nature preserve near Fort Collins.

They will respond to wildfire risks and support neighboring areas during incidents—efforts largely funded by grants.

Seven candidates are vying for a seat on the Health District board of directors with voting set for May 6, and each candidate has outlined plans to improve dental care, mental health services, and community outreach—offering unique approaches to enhance local care.

This election will decide who helps guide the Health District as it works to meet growing community needs.

Fort Collins will hold a board election on May 6 for its taxpayer-funded Health District as seven candidates will vie for three seats amid concerns over staff turnover and changes to mental health services like the CAYAC program for children.

The Health District, which is funded by local property taxes and serves nearly 10,000 people, says new changes will improve care — while critics worry that high staff losses may hurt vital services.

Third Ward Live Performance

7 PM - 1 AM — The Atrium Music Lounge — Check for ticket info — Experience Third Ward's unique blend of styles and emotions in their latest single 'Alleluia'.

Free Live Jazz at Global Village Museum

5:30-7 p.m. — Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures — Free entry — Enjoy a lively performance by Lorna’s Swingset, Colorado’s popular gypsy jazz band.

Clementine with Joe Suburb and Lofi Hohum

7 PM – 1 AM — The Coast — Price not specified — Experience vibrant guitar riffs from this five-piece alternative rock band straight out of Fort Collins.

Master Classical Painting Course

1:30-4 p.m. — 3 Square Art — Check website for pricing — Create a Baroque masterpiece in a four-class oil painting course inspired by the works of Caravaggio and Rembrandt.

Introduction to Watercolors Art Class

1:30-4 p.m. — 3 Square Art — Cost info not specified — Master watercolor techniques in a beginner-friendly, hands-on course.

Fort Collins Montessori School Drawing Class

3:45-4:45 p.m. — Fort Collins Montessori School — Cost varies — Engage young artists in a fun adventure of drawing fundamentals and creative discovery.

Live Music with Matt McCloskey

6-8 p.m. — Loveland Aleworks — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of live music with Fort Collins' own Matt McCloskey.

Steel Pulse Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — Washington’s — $43 — Catch Steel Pulse live at Washington’s for a night of legendary reggae vibes.

Sugar Britches: Sinnin' Sunday with Broghan Foster

4-8 p.m. — The Forge Publick House — Free entry — Experience high-brow honky-tonk with eclectic instrumental accompaniment from Sugar Britches.

Foundations in Art - Drawing II

5:30-8 p.m. — 3 Square Art — Learn foundational drawing techniques for creating expressive art forms.