Serving the Longmont & Firestone Corridor

The Evening Dispatch

Longmont · Firestone · Colorado Front Range

Friday, June 26, 2026  |  Edition No. 010

Front Page

Over 500 Dead, Thousands Missing After Twin Earthquakes in Venezuela

NATIONAL/MINIMAL LOCAL IMPACT

Rescue operations continue in Venezuela following twin earthquakes that have killed over 500 people, with thousands remaining missing. The tremors struck near Caracas, causing widespread building collapses in the Los Palos Grandes neighborhood and other areas.

Rescuers are working through debris of collapsed buildings. The disaster has overwhelmed local emergency response capabilities, and international aid organizations are mobilizing assistance.

U.S. Strikes Iran After Strait of Hormuz Cargo Ship Attack

NATIONAL/MINIMAL LOCAL IMPACT

The United States conducted strikes against Iran after a projectile struck a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz. The attack occurred as the U.N. Shipping Agency was evacuating vessels from the region.

The incident escalates tensions despite ongoing ceasefire negotiations between U.S. and Iranian officials in Switzerland.

Trump Threatens 100% Tax on European Imports

NATIONAL/MINIMAL LOCAL IMPACT

President Trump threatened Friday to impose a 100% tax on European imports if European countries proceed with taxes on digital services. The threat targets European Union plans to tax revenues of U.S. technology companies.

Plain Language

The U.S. and Europe are in a trade dispute over whether European countries can tax American tech companies like Google and Amazon. Trump says he will retaliate with tariffs on European goods if those taxes are implemented.

Israeli Airstrikes Kill 2 in Southern Lebanon

NATIONAL/MINIMAL LOCAL IMPACT

Israeli airstrikes killed two people and wounded a third in southern Lebanon Friday, according to Lebanon's National News Agency. Israeli soldiers also bulldozed and burned homes in the town of Markaba.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that occupation of southern Lebanon will continue, straining the U.S.-Iran ceasefire agreement.

Local

Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Denver Metro

HIGH LOCAL IMPACT

The National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm warning for parts of the Denver metro area Friday afternoon. Quarter-sized hail is possible in affected areas.

Residents should monitor weather alerts and seek shelter if storms approach.

Frederick in Flight Hot Air Balloon Festival This Weekend

HIGH LOCAL IMPACT

The Frederick in Flight Hot Air Balloon Festival takes place Friday, June 26 through Sunday, June 28 at Centennial Park. Morning balloon launches are scheduled for approximately 6:00 a.m. daily, weather permitting.

The Balloon Bash on Saturday, June 27, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m., features live music, food trucks, beer and cider garden, vendor market, and evening balloon glow displays.

Chainsaws & Chuckwagons Featured Artist Competition Deadline Today

HIGH LOCAL IMPACT

Today is the deadline for the Third Annual Chainsaws & Chuckwagons Featured Artist Competition. Submissions are due by midnight.

The winner receives $350 and featured placement on the official event poster. This year's theme commemorates Colorado's 150th anniversary and America's 250th anniversary.

Fire Restrictions Tighten in Summit County

STATE IMPACT

Summit County has implemented a "zero tolerance" policy for fire restriction violations. The sheriff's office is issuing citations for violations of Stage 1 fire restrictions, which are in effect for unincorporated areas.

Denver Cherry Blossom Festival This Weekend

STATE IMPACT

The Denver Cherry Blossom Festival takes place this weekend, featuring taiko drumming, Japanese cuisine, sake, and cultural exhibits. The festival celebrates Japanese culture and arts.

Colorado

Colorado Primary Election Four Days Away

STATE IMPACT

The Colorado primary election is Tuesday, June 30. Mail ballots have been sent to all active registered voters. Key races include the Democratic gubernatorial primary between Phil Weiser and Michael Bennet, and the Republican primary featuring Scott Bottoms, Barbara Kirkmeyer, and Victor Marx.

In-person voting locations will be available. Voters can track their ballots via the state's BallotTrax system.

Troutfest Colorado at Coors Field Saturday

STATE IMPACT

Troutfest Colorado takes place Saturday, June 27, at Coors Field. The free event, presented by the Colorado Wildlife Council, features fishing education, demonstrations, and family activities.

Cherry Creek Arts Festival This Weekend

STATE IMPACT

The 2026 Cherry Creek Arts Festival brings hundreds of artists to Denver this weekend. The festival features visual arts, live music, and food vendors.

Colorado AG Candidates: Allen and Willson

STATE IMPACT

Republican candidates for Colorado Attorney General Michael Allen and David Willson have outlined their positions on key issues. Allen is a former Kansas Assistant Attorney General; Willson is a cybersecurity professional and attorney.

Motor Vehicle Theft Indictments

STATE IMPACT

A grand jury has indicted 11 people on 52 counts related to motor vehicle thefts in Colorado. The charges stem from an investigation into organized auto theft operations.

National

Democratic Governors Send National Guard to DC Ahead of America 250

NATIONAL/MINIMAL LOCAL IMPACT

Several Democratic governors have sent National Guard troops to Washington, D.C., ahead of America 250 celebrations. The deployments come amid President Trump's ongoing military presence in the city, which has drawn controversy.

SCOTUS Rulings Expand Trump Immigration Powers

NATIONAL/MINIMAL LOCAL IMPACT

The Supreme Court issued rulings giving President Trump additional power to set immigration policy. The decisions expand executive authority over asylum and border enforcement.

Trump Works to Woo American Farmers

NATIONAL/MINIMAL LOCAL IMPACT

President Trump is making efforts to address concerns among American farmers. Agricultural policy and trade issues have created tensions with rural constituencies.

FIFA Deploys Counter-Terror Security for World Cup

NATIONAL/MINIMAL LOCAL IMPACT

FIFA has deployed advanced counter-terrorism security measures across 11 American cities ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The security enhancements follow threats against sporting events.

Norway's World Cup Return Powered by Viral Chant

NATIONAL/MINIMAL LOCAL IMPACT

Norway's return to the FIFA World Cup after a long absence has been accompanied by a viral "Viking row" chant. The celebration has spread from stadiums to public spaces including Boston train stations and Times Square.

Community Calendar

TODAY — Friday, June 26, 2026

  • Chainsaws & Chuckwagons Featured Artist Competition Deadline — Frederick, midnight
  • Frederick in Flight Hot Air Balloon Festival — Centennial Park, begins today through Sunday
  • Denver Cherry Blossom Festival — Sakura Square, through Sunday

UPCOMING EVENTS

Saturday, June 27

  • Troutfest Colorado, Coors Field, free admission
  • Balloon Bash, Frederick, Centennial Park, 5:00-9:00 p.m.

Sunday, June 28

  • Frederick in Flight Hot Air Balloon Festival, final day

Tuesday, June 30

  • Colorado Primary Election, 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

WEATHER

Denver Metro: Severe thunderstorm warning in effect Friday afternoon. Quarter-sized hail possible.

Front Range: Hot, dry conditions continue with elevated fire risk in mountain areas.