Laying wreaths at Pikes Peak National Cemetery

Wreaths Across America conducted its first wreath laying event at the new Pikes Peak National Cemetery. Phase 1 of the PPNC was officially opened this fall, and burials have begun for our veterans.The mission of Wreaths Across America is to preserve the memories of Americaís service members. Throughout the nation, this event is conducted on the third Saturday in December each year at thousands of cemeteries. On Dec. 15, family, friends and volunteers honored the veterans buried at PPNC by placing wreaths on their graves, speaking the veteranís name, thanking them for their service and sacrifice, and reflecting on their lives.Dane R. Balcon Post 2008 of The American Legion here in Falcon participated in this event with several other organizations. Members of the Post, Auxiliary, Sons and riders held flags, placed wreaths and provided coffee, cocoa and snacks to all the participants. Members also explained military customs and traditions to many volunteers present during the ceremony. Wreaths Across America, like The American Legion, is committed to teaching younger generations about the value of their freedom and the importance of honoring those who sacrificed so much to protect that freedom.



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Banning Lewis 5K Santa SprintThe annual Banning Lewis Ranch 5K Santa Sprint was held Dec. 8. The event raises money for large purchases like the circle track for all the schools in Banning Lewis. Heather Zambrano, the executive director for the Banning Lewis Ranch Academy Foundation, coordinated the event. In addition to the sprint, there were vendor booths and a bounce house. Many participants wore festive seasonal garb!


This couple preferred to use their real names, Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus. They were available for photo ops or a quick visit. Photos by Cara Lord-Geiser

Micheal Harms, a loan officer with Bay Equity Home Loans in Colorado Springs dressed as Buddy the Elf while manning his companyís booth. Harms moved to the area four months ago, and is planning to get involved with the community.	Gwendy (left) and her daughter, 13-year-old Jemma Hartsel, along with their puppy, Dobby, participated in the Banning Lewis 5K Santa Sprint on Dec. 8. Gwendy serves as treasurer on the Banning Lewis Ranch Academy Board. She said the event was ìfantastic and growing every year for the last three years.î

The Meridian Point Church Country Christmas


Breanne Willey sold her homemade canned goods at the Meridian Point Country Christmas. Breanne calls her business, The Canning Counselor. Photos by Cristel Blaylock

Adults Lisa Smidt (far left), Chad Duncan and Dianna Sleeger (right) enjoyed the variety of booths and activities at the Meridian Point Church Country Christmas last month.	Donna and Michael Grojean had a booth showcasing their jewelry at the Meridian Point Country Christmas event on Dec. 30 and Nov. 1.