A metal bison sculpture created by Native youth in Denver has been stolen, along with the trailer transporting it.

The artwork was in Pueblo for a community education program.

The youth woke up to discover the trailer and sculpture had been stolen overnight from the Springhills Suite at the Marriott parking lot.

The artwork had been traveling through Denver, Boulder, and Colorado Springs before arriving in Pueblo for a program at the El Pueblo History Museum.

Anyone who has seen the trailer or sculpture is asked to call the Pueblo Police Department's non-emergency number at 719-553-2502.

The stolen trailer carries Colorado license plate EUX-T06. A white shot bed Ford pickup between 2018 and 2022 with a ladder in the back is the suspect vehicle, according to police.

Tipsters may also contact Millue Duran with Casa Milagro Youth Solutions at 720-202-0692.

The "Bison Resilience" sculpture is a youth-led art installation made possible by Casa Milagro Youth Solutions, a Denver-based nonprofit dedicated to helping children and teens heal from abuse and trauma.

The sculpture was created as part of the Bison Resilience Project an educational initiative tied to the Bison Harvest at the TallBull Memorial Grounds.

It carries deep cultural significance, representing the genocide of the bison and its devastating impact on Native communities.

The piece also honors the bison's remarkable resurgence from a historic population of 16 million, to fewer than 1,000, and back to over 500,000 today.

The rear section portrays a full, strong bison symbolizing the thriving era of pre-colonization.

The center features a skeletal design representing hardship, trauma, and historical struggle.

The front represents survival, recovery, and moving forward with resilience

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

The Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) is investigating a crash that left a motorcyclist dead on Friday night.

The crash happened just after 8 p.m. near Barnes Road and Purcell Drive and involved one motorcyclist. The rider was taken to the hospital, where police said the rider was later pronounced dead.

An investigation into the crash is ongoing and being conducted by CSPD's Major Crash Team.

The identity of the motorcyclist has not been released.

Todays Forecast: It will be a much warmer day compared to yesterday. Temperatures will be around 10+ degrees higher than yesterday. We will also be 5-10 degrees above seasonal highs. It will be sunny and dry. A few clouds will be possible in the afternoon, mostly across the high country. High temperatures will top out in the upper 70s to low 80s across the High Plains. They will reach near 80 degrees in Colorado Springs and the lower 80s in Pueblo, with pleasant 70s in the mountain valleys.

Tonight, a weak frontal boundary will move across the region. It will be a dry cold front with no precipitation expected. There could be slightly stronger winds as it passes through. Expect clear skies overnight.

Extended outlook forecast: Tomorrow will be slightly cooler as the boundary moves through. Temperatures will drop back into the 70s across the region under mostly sunny skies. An isolated shower over the high country will be possible. The best chance of rain should remain further west over the continental divide. Temperatures will rebound for the rest of the week. An isolated shower will be possible Tuesday afternoon/evening. The best chance will be over the higher terrain. High pressure will dominate for the rest of the week, keeping temperatures warm with mostly sunny skies!

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KOAA News5 is the proud southern Colorado home of the Colorado Springs Switchbacks!

KOAA will stream all non-nationally exclusive Switchbacks FC matches on our mobile app, connected TV apps, and website for Southern Coloradans to enjoy.

Saturday night, the Colorado Springs Switchbacks will be hosting the Oakland Roots Soccer Club at 7:00 p.m. at Weidner Field. For more information about the match and tickets, click here.

Watch the match live below, or use these instructions:

WATCH: Colorado Springs Switchbacks vs Oakland Roots SC Colorado Springs Switchbacks vs Detroit FC

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Disclaimer:

This is sponsored content. All opinions and views are of Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group and does not reflect the same of KOAA.

TCAs Kelsey Peterson made history as the first player in CHSAA history to throw for 10,000 passing yards in flag football.

The senior quarterback has led the Titans to the state championship twice, winning it last season and earning Player of the Year honors. Despite all she has accomplished, Peterson said she had no idea she was on the brink of making history.

News5's Dante Williams has the story in the video below:

AOTW KELSEY PETERSON

"It was honestly crazy. I didn't really even know that was happening. I had no idea that's where my stats are at, but it's such an honor honestly to get that accomplishment. It's not something I ever thought I'd get to do and so, getting that was so cool and I'm so glad I got to do it and have that time to share with my team," Kelsey Peterson said.

A mid-game celebration recognized her historic achievement, but Peterson said the record belongs to more than just her.

"I have worked really hard for this and I mean, so have my teammates. I've worked a lot in the offseason with my receivers and that kind of stuff, so seeing some of that hard work pay off has been so amazing," Peterson said.

Peterson began her football career during her sophomore year, when flag football became a sanctioned CHSAA sport. She said reaching 10,000 passing yards in just under three seasons has felt unreal, but she hopes her true effect is that she becomes a trailblazer for other girls.

"I hope that other girls, younger girls, are going to gain a love for the game and that they're also going to have a desire to play flag football and that they'll gain a hard work ethic and also want to work towards not necessarily that same goal but also work towards a goal," Peterson said.

With a few regular season games and the playoffs remaining, the state's all-time passing leader will continue adding to her legacy, but she's looking forward to the next person who will further the sport.

"I think it's so cool that I have that right now, but I would love to see other girls break that record and other girls also get to do those cool things and have those goals and also thrive and lead a team well," Peterson said.

When Peterson was asked if she had a goal in mind for how high she would want to set this passing yards record, her answer was two as in the number of state titles she hopes to win by the time her high school career is over, putting her team above her own personal accomplishments.

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About Athlete of the Week

News5 works to honor the high school Athlete of the Week throughout the school year in our Wednesday evening newscasts. Were looking for that special teen who is working hard and playing right all while making parents and coaches proud.

Nominate your Athlete of the Week today! See our current and past athletes of the week, click here.

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. Friday Football Fever continues this week! The games kick off Thursday night, followed by plenty of action on Friday.

Get the latest scores and highlights in the video player below:

Friday Football Fever 2026: Week 5 Highlights and Scores from across Southern Colorado

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Mahjong, a tile-based game, is building a fast-growing following in Central Springs and for many players, what happens around the table goes far beyond the game itself.

Front Range Mahjong, a local organization, hosts open play events that have expanded dramatically since they first launched. Owner Courtney Schreier says she remembers the group's very first open play event.

News5 reporter Liv Wood has more on the impact mahjong is having in Central Springs in the video below:

Mahjong is bringing people together one round at a time

"We had 4 tables at Kinship Landing, and now we have, we have 11, so it's grown so much in the last year," Courtney Schreier said, "I think mahjong is just a great way to get off your phone and talk to people, and it's a very tactile game, and I think that's something that's really cool about it."

The organization plays at many locations all around Colorado Springs including The Brit Pub, Kinship Landing, Bristol Brewing Comapny, and Carboy Winery to name a few. They have intro classes, tournament practice, and open play sessions for all skill levels. They provide all the equipment including tiles, racks, mats, and beginner guides so people can focus on playing and connecting with others.

The game itself, which involves swapping tiles to achieve the right pattern, has a little bit of everything, according to player Sandy Halby.

"It's a little bit of chance, a little bit of gambling, a little bit of almost poker-like experience," Halby said.

But for many players, it's the social connections the game creates that matter most.

"It just brings all these people together. You get to meet new people," Halby said.

Fellow player Pamela Walsh says there is something especially rewarding about watching a newcomer catch on.

"You can see somebody at the beginning being so confused thinking, 'how am I ever gonna do this?' and then that moment where it clicks for them and then they're like they are off and running," Walsh said.

For Walsh, mahjong offers a kind of connection that can't be found just anywhere.

"It's just a way to connect with other people that is um very magical in my opinion and I've met some wonderful people that I never would have met any other way," Walsh said.

The game's popularity is growing so quickly that Walsh says supplies are struggling to keep up.

"It has experienced a resurgence in popularity. It's really hard to get tiles now," Walsh said.

Halby says the friendships formed over mahjong can last a lifetime.

"It's great for your social interaction and I love the game and I love the friends that I've made through the game," Halby said.

And for those who make it to a winning round, there's one moment that never gets old.

"There's nothing like that first time you get to say, 'mahjong!'" Walsh said.

A new outdoor classroom at Rockrimmon Elementary on Colorado Springs' West Side carries the name of Melissa Joffrion, a mother of four and Parent Teacher Organization president who died following an oral cancer diagnosis.

What began as an idea for a bench or two near the walking path where parents drop off and pick up their children grew into a full outdoor classroom after community donations reached $30,000.

Melissa's son Jake Joffrion is a student at Rockrimmon Elementary. The outdoor classroom is a reminder of his mother when he passes it on his way to and from school.

"Yes, every day I usually cry," Jake said.

"I also really like it. I'm glad they made it. I mean, I love how they're putting grass around it. I feel like they're really respecting it," Jake said.

Melissa was deeply involved at Rockrimmon Elementary. She served as PTO president, led fundraisers, and helped teachers apply for grants.

"She just wanted to do everything she could to, to help the teachers be successful and be involved with the school," Justin Joffrion, Melissa's husband and Jake's father, said.

Melissa's cancer was discovered after a persistent sore on her tongue. Her diagnosis was unexpected.

"She was young and didn't have the, the sort of lifestyle that might contribute to a diagnosis of oral cancer," Justin said.

Even as she faced her illness, Melissa focused on the school community. When she died, she asked that memorials take the form of donations to Rockrimmon Elementary.

"Even in her time of passing, she wanted people to donate money to the school instead of to expenses that they had, or flowers, and that was really important to us to make sure that she was honored in that way," current PTO President Chelsey Tyndall said.

"Her husband and family wanted something to both honor her and really bring the school community together," Rockrimmon Elementary Principal Amber Izzo said.

Justin said the location of the outdoor classroom reflects how Melissa chose to bring her children to school and connect with other families.

"She didn't like to kick them out of the car. She liked to walk them down and gave her a chance to meet people and visit, and so we thought it would be nice to have a space where people could gather and socialize before and after school," Justin said.

Justin reflected on the level of support from the community.

"When someone is gone, you learn what the scale of the impact that they had on others and so that was very touching to us because we miss her tremendously, of course," Justin said.

"We really decided we wanted to think outside the box and what could we do that would create more community," Tyndall said.

The outdoor classroom also serves the school's educational mission. Rockrimmon Elementary is an IB school, and teachers had been considering an outdoor teaching space.

"There are so many reasons for an outdoor classroom. I feel like it gives our students the opportunity to really put their learning into action," Izzo said.

"Any time we can find a way to, you know, change the scenery for the students and get engagement levels back up in a new way is always, you know, something a teacher's looking for," 3rd-grade teacher Makena Wims said.

"Being in IB school we really consider the whole child and being outside and the positives of nature and its effect on children we know how positive that is," Izzo said.

3rd-grade teacher Briona Dice described one planned use of the space.

"An example is our upcoming weather unit we're studying the types of clouds and we can come out here and get students to actually look at the clouds and be truly engaged in their learning," Dice said.

Jake turned to his father.

"She was amazing," Jake said.

"She was amazing," Justin said.

The PTO continues to raise money to add landscaping around the outdoor classroom space.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.___

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Tonight and tomorrow's forecast: Quiet conditions tonight under mostly clear skies. Overnight lows will be slightly warmer than Thursday night, reaching the upper-40s and low-50s for the I-25 corridor and Plains, and the upper-30s and low 40s across the high country. Tomorrow well see another mostly sunny day, with temperatures noticeably warmer. Well climb above seasonal averages to highs around 80 degrees in the Pikes Peak Region and through the Plains.

Extended forecast: As a weak system passes through the region this weekend, Sunday will be cooler. Well see the chance for a stray shower or storm developing over the high country, but overall our weather will stay mostly quiet. Another day in the low-80s Monday kicks off a warmer-than-average week. Theres another chance of seeing a few isolated showers and storms develop late Monday into Tuesday.

Sunny and warmer to kick off first weekend of October

Colorado Springs forecast: High: 80; Low: 48. Clear overnight with lows in the upper-40s. Saturday brings a warm-up, with highs jumping about 10 degrees to around 80 degrees under sunny skies.

Pueblo forecast: High: 83; Low: 47. Cool and clear overnight, with warming temperatures Saturday. Highs will climb into the 80s. Sunshine continues through the weekend.

Canon City forecast: High: 81; Low: 49. Cool overnight with mostly clear skies. Well see a Saturday warm-up and highs rise back into the low-80s, warmer than average for this time of year.

Woodland Park forecast: High: 72; Low: 42. Clear and chilly overnight, before a mostly quiet forecast this weekend. Highs in the low-70s Sunday under sunny skies.

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The Colorado Springs Police Department is investigating a fatal crash Friday afternoon.

The crash took place along Rockrimmon Boulevard at the I-25 overpass.

The area around the crash is closed, including underneath I-25.

Police confirmed that one person is dead and one person was taken to the hospital in an unknown condition.

The intersection is expected to be closed for several hours while an investigation is conducted.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information is shared.

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COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - The Secretary of Defense will visit Colorado Springs over the weekend.

According to the Department of Defense, Pete Hegseth will visit Colorado Springs on Saturday as a part of his Send Me Tour.

In a press release, officials said Hegseth will deliver an address to 3,500 cadets, and will also administer the oath of enlistment to new recruits at the Air Force vs. Navy game.

The game is set to kick off at 10:00 a.m. at Falcon Stadium.

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24 hours on a bench- that's what Springs Rescue Mission CEO Travis Williams will be doing once again this October to bring awareness to homelessness in Colorado Springs and raise money for the local organization.

A livestream of the event will be available on the Springs Rescue Mission YouTube page and will take place from noon on Thursday, October 8 through Friday, October 9.

Happening at the Springs Rescue Mission campus along West Las Vegas Street, each hour for the 24-hour livestream, Williams will have an hour to talk with people about how the city can better address homelessness and get more people involved in taking action.

We can't do this work alone, said Williams in a news release. The city, our police officers, employers, churches and the Mission each play a part in addressing homelessness. This gives us a chance to sit, listen to one another, and ask a simple question: what does it look like to love our neighbor well?

Some of the guests will include individuals like Colorado State Senator Marc Snyder, City Council Member Lynette Crow-Iverson, guests, and graduates of Springs Rescue Mission programs.

News5's Liv Wood will also be in attendance to speak with Williams for one of the hours.

Watch our previous coverage from last year's event

The goal is to raise awareness and funding, as a local donor has pledged a $25,000 match if the community can raise $25,000 during the live stream.

For more information about the Springs Rescue Mission, click here.

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For retired Air Force Lt. Col. Thomas Lear, the Colorado Springs Marathon is more than a race. It is a way to stay connected to the running community and support fellow veterans.

Lear has participated in the Colorado Springs Marathon since its first year, completing different distances depending on the year. This weekend, he plans to run the half marathon. He has raced in about half of the 50 states as part of an effort to run a marathon in every state. But the Colorado Springs Marathon is special to him.

Having a race of this caliber right in your backyard where you don't have to get on a plane, fly, Lear explained. Having it right here in town was a plus.

Lear also values the race because it raises money for Team Red, White & Blue, an organization that helps veterans build connections and stay active in their communities. As a member of Team RWB, Lear said the organization's presence is one of the things that makes the race special.

I like the fact that it's the number one fundraiser for Team RWB, Lear said. It's a great cause as a veteran.

Lear later volunteered to become an ambassador for the race, helping promote it in the Colorado Springs community.

It's easy for me to do, Lear said. I love the organization.

For first-time runners, Lear recommends breaking the race into smaller, manageable goals rather than focusing on the total distance.

The best advice I ever got was to take any race of any distance, especially if it's one you haven't, the distance you haven't done before, one mile at a time, Lear said. Just think of it as, I just need to get to the next aid station.

Lear's own running experience extends well beyond traditional marathons. While training for his first marathon as part of an Ironman triathlon, he cross-trained with swimming, cycling, running and weight training. He also once ran 30 miles as part of a 52-mile course while crewing for an athlete competing in the Ultraman endurance race in Hawaii. His best marathon time came in Portland, Oregon, where he finished in just under 4 hours and 20 minutes.

Now, Lear hopes his experience encourages more people to participate in the Colorado Springs Marathon, whether they are ready for a half marathon or simply want to try the 5K. He cautions runners against attempting a long-distance race without proper training but said the 5K can provide an introduction to the event.

It's a great feeling to see the crowds coming out, to see the sellouts continue, Lear said. If you've ever wanted to try a little bit longer distance than you've tried before, this is a great race to do it.

Friday, Oct. 2 Packet Pickup

11 a.m.6:30 p.m. Pikes Peak Center, Studio Bee Participants are asked to pick up their race packets Friday.

Saturday, Oct. 3 Race Day

6 a.m. Event site & gear check open 7 a.m. Marathon & Half Marathon start 7:30 a.m. 5K starts 8 a.m. Post-race party begins 9 a.m. 5K awards 10 a.m. Half Marathon awards 10:45 a.m. Kids K starts 11:15 a.m. Full Marathon awards 1:30 p.m. Finish line closes 1:45 p.m. Post-race party ends

TEAM RWB

Team Red, White & Blue is using the Colorado Springs Marathon to build community, promote physical activity and help veterans maintain a sense of purpose after leaving the military.

John Reyes, Team RWBs military installation coordinator in Colorado, said the nonprofit is focused on connecting active-duty service members, veterans and civilian supporters through healthy activities and community events. Reyes, who served 22 years in the military, said many veterans miss the camaraderie and sense of purpose that come with military service.

These events specifically, they bring that aspect back to them, Reyes stated. Now Im surrounded by positive people, same mindset, and were doing it in a healthy way.

Team RWB is a nationwide nonprofit focused on health, wellness and community for veterans, active-duty military members and supporters. At this weekends Colorado Springs Marathon, Team RWB will have about 20 entries participating as a group. Amanda Wood will run the entire 26.2-mile marathon, while other members will join her at different points along the course.

Reyes said the group will grow as the race progresses, with participants carrying American, military branch, 9/11 and POW flags.

At the finish line, its just a group of 20 or 30 people running as one, finishing together, Reyes explained.

Reyes said the organization is open to civilians as well as military members and veterans, with civilian supporters playing an important role in helping bridge the gap between military and civilian communities.

They play a huge part of the role, Reyes said. We need supporters and they need supporters.

This year, Team RWB is also dedicating the final mile of its marathon participation to the service members killed during Operation Gothic Serpent in Somalia in 1993, the battle depicted in the movie Black Hawk Down.

Reyes said the final mile is meant to recognize the service members who had to travel on foot back to their base during the battle while carrying heavy equipment.

Team RWB will be at the Colorado Springs Marathon Race Expo from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday. Reyes said joining the organization is free through its app, where members can find activities including pickleball, paddleboarding and archery.

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The Colorado State Patrol is reminding drivers that October through December is the peak season for wildlife crashes.

According to CSP, animals move to lower elevations for the coming season, and thousands of wildlife crashes are reported each year.

Last year along, there were nearly 4,000 wildlife crashes across Colorado, according to CSP data. It has also increased every year from 2021.

Its Autumn in Colorado - Wildlife is On the Move

(Colorado)While wildlife crashes happen year-round in Colorado, October through December is the peak season due to animals moving to lower elevations (migration) for the coming season.

"Many species of Colorado wildlife are highly vulnerable to being struck at this time of year because it is also their peak mating season. They are more mobile, easily distracted, and more likely to be crossing roadways," CSP said in a press release.

Last year troopers responded to over 3,900 crashes involving wildlife, with autumn as the most active months, explained Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. While white-tailed deer and elk are the most frequently struck wildlife, we have other species such as pronghorn, bear and marmots that ensure every region of our state is susceptible to wildlife encounters. It is up to all of us to remove distractions and watch out for these beautiful animals.

Some of the highest-risk areas for crashes in the state, according to data, are:

Highway 160 (Durango to Pagosa Springs and Durango to Mancos) Highway 50 (Pueblo to eastern state line, Blue Mesa Reservoir and Gunnison to Parlin) Interstate 70 (Floyd Hill, Mt. Vernon Canyon and Eagle) Interstate 25 (Castle Rock to Larkspur) US 285 (Morrison) Hwy 40 (Craig to Steamboat, Tabernash, and Berthoud Pass) Hwy 24 (Riverside to Buena Vista, Newett to Johnson Village) Highway 550 (north of Durango and from Montrose to Ouray)

CSP also has several tips for drivers to avoid a wildlife crash. They include:

Dont exceed the speed limit. Scan roads (or shoulders) for movement and eye shine. Use bright lights at night when safe. If you have time and space behind you, stop for wildlife on the road/use hazard lights. Be aware of groups: remember that if you see one animal, there may be others nearby. If you encounter an animal and don't have time to safely brake in a straight line, the right choice is to drive through, staying in your lane. If you are traveling in an outside lane with the white stripe to your right or a single lane, angle slightly to hit the butt of the animal. Never swerve or jerk your vehicles wheel. If you are involved in a crash with an animal, call 9-1-1 just as you would in any other emergency. Also, if you see wildlife in distress that may have been struck on or near the side of the road, call *CSP so the right resource can be notified and sent to the scene.

A winter attraction in the Pikes Peak region will be missing this year, as the Cripple Creek Ice Castles will not return this season.

The announcement was made Friday, as the City of Cripple Creek and Ice Castles event organizers stated, "operational and business considerations are cited" as the reason behind the decision.

Since 2023, the Ice Castles have been a staple of winter tourism in the former mining town. On top of financial decisions, mild weather and warm temperatures last year also played a role in the decision.

Each year between late December and March, weather-dependent, the castles would open after months of work from "Ice Engineers" working to build the ice structures between late October and November.

Get a Look at How Crews Build the Ice Castles Below

Although the town provided water for the attraction, the city stated that concerns regarding regional water scarcity in Teller County did come up in conversation when discussing whether to host the event this season.

Despite the event not making a return this year, Ice Castles organizers say the working relationship between the city and the event has been great, and they are hoping to bring it back in the future.

We have loved our working relationship with the city and with the community. Thank you for being great partners over the past few years!, stated Ice Castles CEO Kyle Standifird in the release.

The event would bring thousands out to the casino mountain town and was a large boost to the economy during the winter season. Read the full release from the city below.

The City of Cripple Creek, in partnership with Ice Castles, wishes to announce that the beloved event will not be returning to Cripple Creek for the 2026/27 winter season. City Council has been notified that operational and business considerations are cited by event organizers as the reason behind this difficult decision. Mild weather last season throughout the country were challenges for the organization. As a result, they will be scaling back on the number of sites they will be opening this coming season. In addition, while Cripple Creek has an ample supply of water to host the event, there are areas within Teller County that are facing significant water issues, which was also a concern for Council and Ice Castles while discussing the event for this season. Ice Castles added Cripple Creek as a site for this nationally recognized winter destination experience in 2023. The event has been very well received since opening, bringing well needed positive economic impact to the area in what are typically difficult winter months. Thousands of visitors took advantage of the memorable castle each year. The site has grown and added amenities such as a bar, snack sales, and firepits since opening. Each year, the ice engineers have continuously expanded and changed the design to make the experience unique and exciting even for the repeat attendees. We have loved our working relationship with the city and with the community. Thank you for being great partners over the past few years!, stated Ice Castles CEO, Kyle Standifird. The City of Cripple Creek looks forward to bringing Ice Castles back when the conditions become more favorable.

Ice Castles have also made appearances in Dillon, Colorado, first in 2017. The Scripps News Group has reached out to Ice Castles organizers to see if that event will be paused and is awaiting a response.

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ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) Bo Nix and the Denver Broncos have the most fourth-quarter comebacks in the NFL since the quarterback entered the league in 2024.

That's proof of his late-game moxie he can work his way out of any jam and, in part, a product of his early-game malaise. The Broncos have been outscored 40-10 in the first half this season.

But after halftime, Nix flips the script. He has 10 career final-quarter rallies on his resume, including last weekend when he led the Broncos back from a 16-0 halftime deficit for a 30-26 win over the Los Angeles Rams.

Coming from behind week after week, though, is not exactly a reliable game plan. That's why the Broncos (2-1) are trying to buck their slow-start trend.

I think it's just all about execution right now, said Nix, whose team plays at San Francisco (3-0) on Sunday. We have to sustain drives. We have to get the first first down. Typically, once we do that, we have good success. I think we just have to stay on the field longer. Its just early-down success right now, execution.

To Nix's point: The Broncos have had the ball 15 times in the first half this season and failed to pick up even one first down on seven of those drives. In the second half, they've had at least one first down on 11 of 16 drives.

Obviously, we want to be able to start faster and be able to put together four quality quarters of football, receiver Courtland Sutton said. We are working on trying to be better in that aspect.

We are a really strong finishing team, but if we can pair together a fast start plus finishing strong, that is where I think the magic is going to come from.

Improving the run game could be key to faster starts

The solution may lie with something as simple as revamping the ground game. The team has 243 yards rushing this season, which is second worst in the NFL behind the Green Bay Packers (146). The backfield has been banged up with J.K. Dobbins and RJ Harvey dealing with ailments and Jonah Coleman currently on injured reserve with an ankle injury.

Coach Sean Payton equated lackluster starts with an erratic rushing attack. This season, he handed the play-calling duties over to offensive coordinator Davis Webb, who said the team needs to run with a little bit more conviction.

We've got to come out the gate obviously a lot faster, Webb added. But man, you cant argue the resiliency and whats been basically the tradition here, in regards to coming out of halftime like their hair is on fire. So hopefully we wake up with that intensity in San Francisco.

It may be tricky given that the 49ers have yet to allow any points in the first quarter. However, they've surrendered 24 in the fourth.

We dont panic, said Nix, who's 26-11 in the regular season as the starter. Nobody really has to say much, but were all just motivating each other and encouraging each other.

Once you do it a few times, you just know you can do it. We all just get in the huddle like, This is our time, guys. This is what weve built and what weve managed to become. ... Its just doing it over and over and knowing I have the guys to go out there and go on a game-winning drive because weve done it against many, many good teams.

Payton wants to win in every month

The Broncos are 10-3 in October under Payton, including 4-0 last season. Not that he puts too much stock in past numbers.

I think the coach in you says, Man, why isnt it better in September? Payton cracked. So hopefully we can continue that.

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Todays Forecast:

Friday will be a transition day to a calmer and warm weather pattern for the start of October. With low level moisture in place this morning after our latest storm, we have areas of dense fog that have filled in from the Pikes Peak Region to portions of the High Plains. The low clouds and fog should clear out between 9 am and noon, leaving us with sunshine for the back half of the day. Highs today will be a few degrees warmer than yesterday, but still below average for this time of the year.

While we aren't expecting any rain or snow today in Southern Colorado, we will see a breezy to gusty afternoon. Peak southerly wind gusts today will range between 20-30 mph, with some stronger gusts east of I-25.

Colorado Springs forecast: High: 68; Low: 47. Areas of dense fog this morning will give way to a bright, breezy and mild afternoon. Highs today will be warmer than yesterday, but still a few degrees shy of our average high of 71 degrees.

Pueblo forecast: High: 71; Low: 46. Patchy clouds and fog Friday morning will turn to sunshine and breezy south winds this afternoon, with peak gusts around 20-25 mph.

Canon City forecast: High: 71; Low: 49. Patchy clouds this morning will give way to sunny skies and some very comfortable temperatures this afternoon in the lower 70s.

Woodland Park forecast: High: 65; Low: 42. Clear skies and some chilly, fall-like vibes this morning will give way to a bright and beautiful afternoon. Highs today will climb into the middle 60s.

Tri-Lakes forecast: High: 60s; Low: 40s. Overcast and foggy skies this morning will turn to sunshine and mild temperatures this afternoon. While skies will be dry for the next 12-24 hours, it will be gusty today, with southerly wind gusts around 25-35 mph.

Plains forecast: High: 60s/70s; Low: 40s. Patchy low clouds and fog will give way to sunshine into the afternoon, along with breezy south winds and highs in the upper 60s and lower 70s. Breezy south winds this afternoon will gust to around 25-35 mph.

Walsenburg and Trinidad forecast: High: 60s/70s; Low: 40s. After a wet and rainy couple of days, our weather will be much calmer and much brighter as we close out the week with sunshine and mild highs on the southern I-25 corridor.

Mountains forecast: High: 40s/50s/60s; Low: 30s/40s. After rain and high elevation snow earlier this week, Friday's forecast in the high country will be absolutely beautiful. With light winds and sunshine, highs today will top out in the

Extended outlook forecast:

In the extended period, high pressure to our southwest this weekend will keep the storm track well north of Colorado. Saturday will be the warmest day of the weekend, with a high of around 80 degrees in Colorado Springs.

A weak cold front will drop highs by around 10 degrees on Sunday, with lower 70s and breezy southerly winds by the afternoon. Temperatures will rebound back into the 80s on Monday and Tuesday, with just a slight chance of a shower or thunderstorm by Tuesday afternoon.

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Curious about the First Alert 5 Weather Storm Impact Scale? Check out our cheatsheet explainer.

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After two years straight with a loss to Navy, the Falcons host the Midshipmen at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 3, at Falcon Stadium. On the line: bragging rights and the first step toward winning the Commander-in-Chiefs Trophy.

The teams first met in 1960, and Air Force leads the all-time series 3424. Navy won their last meeting 3431 in Annapolis.

The trophy competition began in 1972, with Air Force, Navy and Army each playing the other two. Saturdays winner gets an early advantage, but beating Navy alone does not clinch the trophy. Air Force last won it in 2022.

Learn More about the Upcoming Rivalry Game Below

For Scott Koons, a former Air Force cadet and owner of Colorado Mountain Brewery, rivalry week brings back memories of campus chants and cheering from the stands.

The whole week is geared around beat Navy or, you know, beat Army, sink Navy, these kinds of things, Koons said.

Now, he expects fans from both sides to pack his restaurant. His staff is preparing with extra food, beer, and staffing, while the game brings visiting fans into the community.

Koons says the connection extends beyond academy graduates to veterans who identify with their branchs team. And underneath the competition is a shared purpose.

I think both teams respect each other very much simply because we know were all serving the same purpose, and thats for our country, he said.

Before you head to Falcon Stadium:

Arrive early: Parking lots open at 6 a.m.; stadium gates open at 8 a.m. Choose your entrance: Use the Academys South Gate for lots 12 and North Gate for lots 46. Lot 3 fans may use either. Bring identification: Starting at 6 a.m., U.S. citizens do not need a base pass or pre-registration. Visitors over 18 must carry a U.S. government-issued ID or passport. Foreign nationals must register with the Pass and Registration Office. Pack light: Clear bags may be no larger than 12 by 12 by 12 inches. Small clutches or fanny packs may be no larger than 5.5 by 7.5 inches. The stadium is cashless, and reentry is not allowed.

As for Koons prediction, theres no hesitation.

Its not if Air Force wins, its when Air Force wins this weekend, he said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Silver Key Senior Services is preparing for a significant funding gap that could affect transportation services for older adults across the Pikes Peak region.

Beginning in January 2027, Silver Key expects to lose approximately $36,000 a month in transportation funding.

The funding comes through the Colorado Department of Transportation. What that means is it's $432,000 that will be a major gap to our transportation program. Said Silver Key President and CEO Jason DeaBueno.

The nonprofit's Reserve and Ride program provides about 34,000 rides each year to more than 1,500 older adults.

But Silver Key says demand already exceeds its capacity.

Before this funding cut, we had to deny last year 5000 rides, and that's about 1100 people overall, said DeaBueno.

He says transportation is about more than simply getting older adults to appointments.

Silver Key is known for being able to make sure that people get access to their medical care, but this is also important because we are the one agency that provides access to social care, connection to community.

Silver Key says its transportation services can help older adults maintain their independence and stay connected to their communities.

The organization has served older adults in the Pikes Peak region since 1970. Its broader services include transportation, nutrition, health and wellness, behavioral health, housing and community navigation.

Silver Key looking for community support

The Abram and Ray Kaplan Foundation has provided a $50,000 challenge grant to help Silver Key address the transportation funding gap.

DeaBueno says matching that grant would provide about two additional months of services while the organization works on a longer-term transportation model.

Silver Key is also looking for additional volunteers, partnerships and funding as it works toward a sustainable transportation model.

The organization says volunteers can help expand its capacity, while trained staff remain necessary for rides involving older adults who use wheelchairs, walkers, oxygen or other supportive equipment.

Silver Key says the goal is to continue providing transportation while developing a model that can keep pace with the region's growing older-adult population.

Breast cancer is blamed for more than 42,000 deaths a year in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. As Breast Cancer Awareness Month gets underway, health care providers are delivering the message: too many people wait too long to get a mammogram.

Julie Buffenmeyer is a radiology tech who performs mammograms for others her job is also personal.

"I myself got early detection. I had ductal carcinoma. They were able to go in and remove it and then because of my family history, I decided to go ahead and do a bilateral mastectomy," Buffenmeyer said.

She felt an unusual dent in her breast tissue and, because of her family's breast cancer history, got checked early. Standing in front of a mammogram machine, she described the equipment simply.

"The equipment that is behind me is an absolute lifesaver," Buffenmeyer said.

Now she regularly encounters women who have delayed their screenings.

"It is very common. Or you have somebody that comes in, and will come in and they haven't ever had one, and they're in their 70s," Buffenmeyer said.

Patient Amberly Brown's most recent appointment was multiple years overdue. What started as "next week" grew to a month, then a year.

"I'm very much the, you know, typical busy person. We all have a lot to do," Brown said.

She knows someone who is fighting for her life because of breast cancer, and that relationship has become a source of motivation.

"She reminds me all the time that we have to show up for ourselves, and I'm grateful for that reminder," Brown said.

Cynthia Smith with Colorado Springs Imaging said timing is everything when it comes to outcomes.

"The earlier you catch it, the better prognosis you may have," Smith said.

Colorado Springs Imaging is offering a $100 screening this month for people without insurance. Appointments are designed to take less than 30 minutes and are easy to schedule.

"Patients typically call us to get scheduled and we try to get them scheduled the same day, next day," Smith said.

For Buffenmeyer, surviving breast cancer has become a personal mission.

"I don't want to be a statistic. I want to be the one that steps up and says, hey, did you get checked? I got checked," Buffenmeyer said.

Colorado Springs Imaging has multiple incentives through the month of October to encourage mammograms.

People without health insurance can also get a free or low-cost mammogram screening at more than 100 clinics across Colorado through the Women's Wellness Connection program, offered through the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. To learn more about eligibility and to find a clinic near you, click here. When you call the clinic, be sure to let them know you would like to participate in the Women's Wellness Connection program.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

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