Pueblo Zoo achieves accreditation
The Pueblo Zoo recently earned accreditation from the Association of Zoos & Aquariums following a comprehensive evaluation by an independent commission.
The recognition goes to zoos that provide outstanding animal care, educational experiences, and conservation efforts.
The honor “is a mark of excellence and a testament to a zoo’s unwavering dedication to the highest standards of animal care and conservation,” said Dan Ashe, president and chief executive officer of the association, in a press release.
Pueblo Zoo Executive Director Abbie Krause said achieving the accreditation ” is a team effort, and we strive to uphold these standards every single day.”
“As a small zoo, we are particularly proud to stand alongside other esteemed institutions and showcase what our community can achieve,” Krause said.
Pueblo West Metro Board set to host public hearings on proposed utility increases
The Pueblo West Metro District will host the public hearings on proposed water rate and fee adjustment at 5 p.m., Oct. 28, and again at 5 p.m., Nov. 12, at the board meeting room inside district offices at 356 S. McCulloch Blvd, No. 103.
The district also will host public hearings on the proposed 2025 budget at 5 p.m., Nov. 12, and again at 5 p.m., Dec. 9.
A copy of the proposed budget is available at the district’s administrative office located at 63 E. Spaulding Ave. or online at pueblowestmetro.us. Any interested elector living in the district may file an objection to the proposed budget at any time prior to the final budget adoption.
To comment on the proposed budget, email publiccomment@pueblowestmetro.us. Comments will be read to the board during the public comment time at the next board meeting.
Pueblo County Commissioner earns LGBTQ+ Advocate of the Year Award
Pueblo County Commissioner Daneya Esgar recently won the LGBTQ+ Advocate of the Year Award at the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s 45th Annual National Conference in Kansas City, Missouri.
The Latino business advocacy and resource organization based in Washington, D.C., gives the annual award to an entrepreneur, corporate representative, community leader, or elected official whose work fosters a better understanding and closer cooperation between the LGBTQ+ community and other diverse communities that drive the nation’s economy, according to a press release.
Esgar was born and raised in Pueblo and is a graduate of Colorado State University Pueblo. She worked in the news media, higher education, and community organization industries before serving in the Colorado Legislature for eight years.
Esgar began serving on the Board of County Commissioners in June 2023. The Latino Chamber of Commerce of Pueblo and the Latino Chamber Foundation staff and volunteers extended congratulations to Esgar on winning the honor.