Good morning, Fort Collins.

On May 7, about a dozen local residents gathered at the Fort Collins research lab of Red Beast Enterprises to protest after the USDA cited the company for multiple animal welfare violations—urging stronger care for research animals.

The Coloradoan dug through local archives to show Fort Collins in 1975, 2000 and 2025, featuring photos of community events, sports, and everyday life that capture the city’s shifts over 50 years.

The photo collection offers a visual timeline—linking past traditions with today's evolving urban landscape.

US News World Report released its Best States rankings on May 6 and Colorado ranked 11th overall, scoring high in education, the economy and health care—while its fiscal stability and public safety scores were low.

The state ranked 16th overall last year, marking a shift in mixed performance across key areas.

The Colorado General Assembly adjourned after a 120-day session that included debates on more than 650 bills as lawmakers worked to fix a billion-dollar budget shortfall.

A plan to spend $4 million on new furniture for legislators became a flashpoint — drawing sharp attention to fiscal challenges.

The intersection of West Drake Road and Shields Street in Fort Collins will be fully closed on May 10 from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. for utility work—traffic on Drake Road must turn right onto Shields Street and travel east-west via West Horsetooth Road or West Prospect Road while pedestrians use crossings at Shields Street and Centre Avenue or Raintree Drive.

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.

Introduction to Watercolors Art Classes

1:30-4 p.m. — 3 Square Art — Cost information not provided — Master watercolor painting techniques in this beginner-friendly course.

A Taste of Ireland

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Rialto Theater Center — Check website for ticket prices — Experience the vibrant Irish music and dance sensation returning after its Off-Broadway premiere.

CEC Fort Collins Fundraiser at BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse

11 a.m. – 3 p.m. — BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse — Enjoy a meal to support local student activities while savoring BJ’s famous Pizookie.

Dennett Live

8 PM – 12 AM — Aggie Theatre — Details not provided — Enjoy an evening of live music featuring Dennett, PapaJay, Casey Sullivan, and Schloob.

Acoustic Brunch with David Wiatrolik

10 a.m. — Ace Café — Free entry — Enjoy a bottomless mimosa while soaking in an acoustic set from a talented local musician.

The Pickin' Pear at Avogadro's Number

7-11 p.m. — Avogadro's Number — Ticketed event — Experience the modern folk, rock, and bluegrass sounds of Tia Martini and Leon Elam on banjo and ukulele.