Colorado Springs Military & Community Events: A slate of July events kicks off around Colorado Springs, including a TAPS Celebrity Classic Dinner Show and other military-focused gatherings through late July. Chicano Art Festival Funding: The Chicano Art Festival in Kansas City faces a funding gap, with organizers scrambling to keep the Latino arts tradition alive for artists and families across the region, including Colorado. Activism & Animal Rights: More charges have been issued for activists tied to the Ridglan Farms beagle raid in Wisconsin, renewing debate over animal research, protest, and legal consequences. Education & Teachers: NEA President Becky Pringle’s final keynote in Denver centered on educators as the “heartbeat of democracy,” with a focus on community, love, and public education’s role in social justice. Water & Rights: Aspen Ideas asks whether rivers should have rights, spotlighting Indigenous water justice and the Colorado River’s over-allocation pressures. Local Independence Day Culture: Fort Collins’ Fourth of July celebrations filled City Park with history displays, music, and community moments. Skincare Startup Spotlight: Generations Skincare, a Colorado-based brand, is pitching science-backed, accessible skincare built from transparent, medically recognized ingredients. Sports & Pride: Nuggets fans get fresh LeBron James buzz as Denver is named among teams still in the mix, while U.S. World Cup coach Mauricio Pochettino leans into country music and national identity ahead of the 250th.