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Upcoming Events for August 3, 2023

OUR WORLD

World Journal offices moved
OUR WORLD— That’s right, we finally made the big move! We appreciate your patience as we are still getting things together. Our main office in Walsenburg is now open!  Internet and phones getting switched over has been another challenge, thank you for your patience. Our new address is 504 Main Street, Walsenburg.
Our office in Raton has also moved, just around the corner to 130 Park Ave, in the Center for Community Innovation.

SCCOG AAA Regional Advisory Council (RAC) Recruitment
HUERFANO/LAS ANIMAS— Recruitment runs through Tuesday, Aug. 15. The South Central Council of Governments (SCCOG) Area Agency on Aging (AAA) RAC is recruiting new members. This board serves in an advisory capacity to the SCCOG AAA. The RAC helps in the administration and planning of the Older Americans Act programs by gathering information and ideas that help coordinate the delivery of services, and by responding effectively to the strengths and needs of older adults throughout Huerfano and Las Animas Counties. The RAC will hold quarterly meetings that will be hybrid. The next meeting will be in Trinidad on Wednesday, Aug. 23, 9 a.m. and in Walsenburg November 2023 TBD.
If you are interested in please send a letter of interest to vmaes@sccog.net or mail/bring to SCCOG AAA,
300 Bonaventure Avenue, Trinidad CO 81082 or SCCOG AAA, 625 Polk Avenue, Walsenburg CO 81089

HUERFANO

SPLD Board of Trustees opening
WALSENBURG— The Spanish Peaks Library District Board of Trustees is looking for new members and alternate members.  If you can devote one to two hours per month, come be a part of an energetic, informed and active board.  The current Board of Trustees is dedicated to moving the library forward, and upward, after a couple of hard years during COVID.   All of our staff are dedicated, along with the Board of Trustees to keep the library active and engaged in the community.  The board meets every third Tuesday at 2 p.m, with our Building Expansion Committee meeting at 1:15 p.m.  Not to worry if you haven’t been on a board of volunteers before, we have a terrific handbook and hold  training from the Colorado Library Consortium.  If this appeals to you, contact Lisa Wagner, Board of Trustees President, at 719-250-9450.

Cuchara Foundation Digital Archive Project
CUCHARA— Do you love Cuchara and all the magic and history it holds?  Please share your memories and family history with us, by letting us scan and photograph your memorabilia. It’s FREE and all you need to do is be willing to look through your photo albums and drop off these precious time capsules to us. We will handle them with care as we create a digital version of your memories to be part of the archive for years to come.  In early December, we will make this Digital Archive website available to everyone, so the legacy of the Cuchara Valley can be shared around the world.
Please drop off photos, slides, posters, stickers, brochures, whatever you have as a Cuchara memory to H’s Place Gallery at 213 S Main St La Veta, Wednesday through Saturday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. or at the Cuchara Library Branch in Cuchara Village on Thursdays. For more information please email heathercurtisphotofun@yahoo.com or call 719-565-8173.

Huerfano County Community Coalition
WALSENBURG— The Spanish Peaks Business Alliance is sponsoring the next Huerfano County Community Coalition meeting on Thursday, Aug. 3, 12 p.m. Please join us for our first meeting since spring at the Huerfano County Community Center in Walsenburg.  Zoom Meeting ID: 890 3365 0278

HCHS meeting
WALSENBURG— The next meeting of the Huerfano County Historical Society will be held on Thursday, Aug. 3 at 4 p.m. at the Huerfano Heritage Center at 114 W. 6th St. All persons interested in our local history are encouraged to attend.

Huerfano Farmers Markets
HUERFANO— Our local farmers markets are going strong! Don’t forget to stop by one or all of these for the best local goodies around.
La Veta Farmers Market, every Thursday, 3 – 5 p.m. next to the library on Main Street.
Cuchara Farmers Market, every Friday, 4 – 6 p.m. at the Cuchara Mountain Mercantile at the base of the mountain park.
Gardner Farmers Market, every Saturday, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. under the pavilion next to the Methodist church.
Walsenburg Farmers Market, Every Sunday 12 -2 p.m. at Heritage Park on Main Street and the railroad tracks.

SCCY Burrito Dinner fundraiser
WALSENBURG— Help support our local youth at Sangre de Cristo Center for the Youth during their monthly burrito dinner fundraiser. The dinner is today Thursday, Aug. 3, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. at 505 Main Street in Walsenburg. Come for good food and pre-order Palisade Peaches.

Weekend Activities at Lathrop State Park
WALSENBURG— Friday Aug. 4, 10 a.m. join Sherie Shaffer, CSU Extension Pueblo County Director on a hike and learn about native plants in the region. Bring a water bottle, Hat/Sunscreen, and bug spray.
At 1 p.m. join us for food chain crafting. Are you predator or are you prey. Come find out who eats who in this web of life activity. There’s a food chain craft involved!
At 7 p.m. Geologist Brian Penn will talk about Igneous Petrology of the Spanish Peaks. Come and learn about the geologic history of the Spanish Peaks area. Learn how the crust and upper mantle interaction produced the many igneous bodies of the region.
Saturday Aug. 5, 4 p.m. join Lathrop Rangers for a Youth Fishing Day. Learn everything about fishing, Get hands-on instruction, and have a great time. Parent’s attendance required. Bring a water bottle, Hat/Sunscreen, bug spray and fishing poles.
At 7 p.m. join us Christa Penn will talk about the Colorado Carousels. Come learn about Colorado’s historic and modern carousels and where you can go to ride a piece of history!
Tuesday Aug. 8, 6 p.m. Bring your dogs and walk with Trisha, one of our awesome, local volunteers, along the Cuerna Verde Trail. Go the full 2.8 miles or as far as you and your dog want! Remember to bring a water bottle, Hat/Sunscreen, and bug spray.
Please meet at the meet in the Visitor’s Center for all activities. Park passes are required for vehicles.

Collage at LVSA
LA VETA— The La Veta School of the Arts is pleased to offer Collage with instructor Lana Thomas-Wachterman on Friday, August 4, 1 – 3 p.m. This class has students create a work of art in which paper, photos, fabric, and more are stuck down onto a surface. Then students can use markers, paint, ink stamps and other fun additions to the surface. This class takes place at LVSA for students 6 and older (younger, with adult supervision). LVSA is on Ryus Ave. across from the town park in La Veta. . More information and to register visit www.thelvsa.org, or by calling 719.742.3421. Cost is $10 per class, per child; early registration reduces the fee to $5.

Movie Matinee: “The Last Word”
LA VETA— Join us at La Veta Public Library for a movie matinee of “The Last Word” starring Shirley McLaine and Amanda Seyfried on Friday, Aug. 4, 2 p.m!

First Friday Art Walk
LA VETA—  It’s that time again for art, food and fun. La Veta’s First Friday Art Walk is Friday, Aug. 4, 4:30 – 7 p.m. Gather friends, family and youth that love pondering inspiring art, or enjoy a solo excursion exploring shops and galleries. Meet local, national and internationally recognized artists. Dine at nearby restaurants and breweries. Estelle Center for Creative Arts will also be having their Grand Opening at 105 W Ryus Ave.  Check out the beautiful renovations, meet the founder, Jennifer Peterson, and learn more about their exciting plans for art retreats and community events. First Friday is sponsored by the La Veta Creative District and Colorado Creative Industries. For more information, info@LaVetaCreativeDistrict.org & LaVetaCreativeDistrict.org.

CS Stylings Haircut marathon fundraiser
WALSENBURG— This year we have teamed up with Small World Gaming Lounge and Gub Gubs’ Pizza to raise money for El Fandango dance program here in Walsenburg. We will be giving $15 haircuts on Saturday, Aug 5, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. First come first serve ,but don’t worry we’ll have games set up at Small World Gaming Lounge located at the back of the salon. We will have a free slice of pizza waiting for you after your hair cut as well. All proceeds go directly to the El Fandango Dance program.

The Libre Community Tour
HUERFANO— The Huerfano County Historical Society presents The Libre Community Tour on Saturday, Aug. 5, 9 a.m. at the Walsenburg Mining Museum. Allow 3-4 hours. Located in the shadow of the Wet Mountains, Libre is one of just a few countercultural living experiments from the 1960s still in existence. It is distinguished by its variety of architectural innovations, as well as, their community decision to be stewards of the land in an ecological sense. Libre still thrives today as a hub for the arts and other creative ventures. The spirit of helping each other and a tribal aspect of kinship lives on. $15 per member. $20 per person for non-members. 12-18 years old are $10. Children under 12 are free. For reservations call The Heritage Center at (719) 738-2346 or email huerfanoheritagecenter@outlook.com. Lunch at the Gardner Chuckwagon is suggested for after the tour.

Cuchara Art Show
CUCHARA— The Cuchara Valley Recreation Program has revived the Cuchara tradition of having an art show for all to enjoy. A nice gathering place for families and friends. Come support local artists at the art show on Saturday, Aug. 5 and Sunday, Aug. 6, 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. at the Cuchara Rec Center.

Gardner Chuckwagon
GARDNER— This year marks the 79th anniversary of the Gardner Chuckwagon. Join the fun on Saturday, Aug. 5, 12 – 4 p.m. at the Gardner Methodist Church. Adults are $10 and children under 12 are $5. Sponsored by First National Bank – Huerfano County Branch.

Rattlesnakes, NO BULL
LA VETA— Join Naturalist, Bob Kennemer and the Spanish Peaks Outdoor Center on Sunday, Aug. 6, 2 p.m. for an all ages lesson on Rattlesnakes. Learn the facts and myths of our slithering friends. How to avoid getting bit. What to do and what not to do if bitten. Featuring live nonvenomous snakes! Located at the La Veta Public Library. Adults, 16 and up, are $5. Children 15 and under are free with a paying adult. (Pay at the door/no preregistration).

Little Flamingo Story Time
WALSENBURG— Every Monday 10:30 – 11 a.m. at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg Mrs. Flamingo will be featuring books, songs, felt storyboard, puppets and more!  Recommended ages 0-6yrs.

Laughter Yoga Monday Evenings
LA VETA— Join us Monday evenings throughout the summer for our free Laughter Yoga. Practiced regularly, fun, simple laughing exercises, combined with yogic breathing and stretching, helps support our physical well being, mental health and emotional responses to daily life. Bringing more oxygen to brain and body is important when living at higher elevation. Meet in the La Veta Town Park on West Ryus near the gazebo from 5 – 5:30 p.m. on Monday evenings throughout the summer. For more information, please contact Laura “Joy” Bedford at 630-864-8992 or TrustingOurInnerLight@gmail.com.

Legal self help clinic
WALSENBURG— On Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2 – 5 p.m. the Spanish Peaks Library will be hosting their monthly free Legal self help program. This is a FREE legal clinic for parties who have no attorney. Volunteer attorneys will answer questions, help fill out forms, and explain the process and procedure for civil legal issues, including family law, civil litigation, property law, probate law, collections, appeals, landlord-tenant law, veteran’s benefits, and civil protection orders. Please contact your Spanish Peaks Library at (719) 738-2774 to be added to the sign-up sheet.

Edible, medicinal, and useful wild plants of the Spanish Peaks
LA VETA— Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2 p.m. and Sunday, Aug. 13, 8 a.m.  This one hour slideshow and lecture provides a solid introduction to wild flowers and plant ID and foraging. Located at the La Veta Public Library. $10 per person. Sample plants will be available for study, including deadly poisonous ones, which are important to know and ID. Presented by local interpretive naturalist, Bob Kennemer and the Spanish Peaks Outdoor Center.

Wildflowers in the Weeds Nature Walks
CUCHARA–  Learn how to ID wildflowers, along with edible, medicinal, useful, and dangerous wild plants. Gentle one hour nature walks led every Wednesday, from 5 to 6 p.m. by local Interpretive Naturalist Bob Kennemer. Wild berries are coming on and wildflowers are at their peak! Cost $5.00 per person. Class size limited to 10. Wednesday, Aug. 9, Cuchara area, TBD.   Handouts included. Pre Registration required 24 hours in advance, and to learn more, email Bob at: bobkennemer@gmail.com

American Legion Post 16 Meeting
WALSENBURG— The Brian T. Chiquette Post 16 of The American Legion will have their monthly meeting at  on Wednesday, August 9, 6 p.m. at the Walsenburg Housing Authority Office, 220 Russell Ave. in Walsenburg. The Veterans Trust Fund (Veterans helping Veterans) is now closed, but there are other ways possible to assist Veterans. All Veterans are invited and encouraged to attend the meeting. We will be discussing future activities for the Post. If you have any questions, please call Dave Rogers 719-738-9965.

First Call for Coal Camps and Cow Camps project
WALSENBURG— Huajatolla Heritage Foundation with support from an Art in Society grant is working on collecting stories and pictures for the community event that will be held Saturday, Nov. 4th at the Huerfano County Community Center in Walsenburg. This is a first call for anyone who has material to share or wants to be part of his important project. As part of the ongoing Wisdom Archive program at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg, Sandy Dolak will be there on Friday, Aug. 11, 1 – 3 p.m. to welcome anyone interested in participating. She will have a scanner so she can capture any of your photo memories and hand the pictures right back to you. We want to have one segment that features “Coal Camp Kids” so dig those pictures out. Contact Sandy at sdolak@hhfoundation.org or text at 719-251-1271

The Mobile Market in La Veta
LA VETA – The Care and Share Mobile Market truck will be back in the La Veta Village assisted living residence parking lot at 109 E. Francisco Street on Friday, Aug. 11, 2 to 4 p.m. The Mobile Market provides no-cost groceries. Everyone in the community is welcome to shop at the market. Simply walk up and choose food you would like to take home. Bring Your Own Two Bags. For questions please call (719) 247-1393 or email foodservices@lavetavillage.org.

Stonewall Century Ride, 20th Anniversary
HUERFANO— The 20th, Anniversary Stone Wall Century Ride will be held on Saturday, Aug. 12. That’s 102 miles on the Highway of Legends from La Veta to Segundo and back. To register or for more information please visit https://spcycling.org

Natural dye workshop
LA VETA— Join us on Saturday, Aug. 12, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. in the plaza at Francisco Fort in La Veta. This class will be taught by Deborah Martinez, Ph.D. Students will learn how to use three different natural dyes. All supplies including a silk satin scarf included. The cost is $50.00. To register, call (719) 742-5501 or email director@franciscofort.org.

Cuchara Dance
CUCHARA— Come dance the night away at the Cuchara Recreation Center on Saturday, Aug. 12, 7 p.m. The dance is free but as always donations are accepted.

Methodist Peach Pre-Order
LA VETA— Final orders for those delicious, #1 Palisade peaches need to be received by Friday, Aug. 4. Order forms are available throughout La Veta — including blank forms at the door of La Veta United Methodist Church on the corner of Main and Virginia. Orders
will be ready for pickup on Sunday, August 27, between 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.. When filling out your form, please make sure to include your name, phone and email address so we may send you a reminder for pickup. All orders must be accompanied by cash or check. Should you have any questions, visit our website at www.lavetaumc.org.

SCCY Palisade peach fundraiser
WALSENBURG— SCCY is pleased to announce the return of our Palisade Peach Fundraiser. The peaches will be at 513 Main st. in Walsenburg on Wednesday, August 30th.  You can place orders by calling Myra at 719-989-7813 or Cathy 719-989-0122.  This fundraiser helps support summer programming for the youth who attend SCCY.  As always, we thank the community for your continued support of SCCY and helping the youth of our community realize their full potential.  10 lbs box is $29 and $18 is $39.

Photography Show at SPACe
LA VETA— The Annual Photography Show at SPACe is coming up soon! Judge for awards will be Jeff Madeen, an artist, designer, sculptor, photographer, and gallery owner from Pueblo. He will determine the winners of $500 for 1st Place, $250 for 2nd Place and $150 for 3rd Place. Show dates are Aug. 15 – Sept. 10. There is a $10 fee to enter with a limit of 3 pieces per artists. The Photography Show is a juried show. Photography must be the original concept and creation of the artist. Works created either on film or digitally will be accepted with no categories. Artwork is due at SPACe for consideration Aug. 10, 11, & 12. All photos must be appropriately framed. See all the details on the SPACe website www.spanishpeaksarts.org

SPLD Presents Trivia
WALSENBURG— Join the Spanish Peaks Library on Wednesday, Aug. 19, 6 p.m. at the Second Street Bar and Grill at the Walsenburg Golf Course. There will be 5 rounds with 10 questions each round and bonus points if you bring you SPLD Library Card.

Taco’ bout a party for LVFPD
CUCHARA— Join the La Veta Fire Protection District on Saturday, Aug. 19, 5 p.m. for an all you can eat taco party! Adult meals are $20 and kids are $10, kids under 5 are free. There will be live music, a silent auction, prizes and more! Taco’ bout a party will be held at the Cuchara Mountain Mercantile, 1120 Pandero Ave, Cuchara.

LAS ANIMAS

Apishapa Valley Heritage Center and Museum- Extended Hours
AGUILAR— The Apishapa Valley Heritage Center & Museum at 132 E. Main St in Aguilar will be open extended hours for the Aguilar Street Festival & Car Show on Saturday, August 5th.  Sit at our historic bar & peruse early insurance ledgers, The Aguilar Press Newspaper, the Morning Light Newspaper, family stories, a diorama of early Aguilar businesses and much more.   We are located across the street from the Aguilar Mercantile.  Our scheduled days to be open are Thursday, Friday & Saturday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. but appointments for families or groups can be made by calling 719-406-5203 or 719-859-0918

Senior Days at Books and More Bookstore
TRINIDAD—  Senior Days at Books & More Bookstore in Trinidad will be Friday, August 4, and Saturday, August 5.  Store hours for Friday are 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and Saturday are 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Most items are 50% off.  For more information please call us at 719-846-8522.

First Friday Art Walk
TRINIDAD— Check out Main St and Commercial St in Trinidad on Friday, Aug. 4, 5 – 8 p.m. for thier First Friday Art Walk. The evening will be filled with music, art and good company.

Friday Night Live at TLSP
TRINIDAD— Every Friday night at 8 p.m. the Trinidad Lake State Park Ranger/interpreter will present a program of interest to campers and the general public alike. Join us around the fire ring at the park amphitheater to get the latest in fishing activity, wildlife sightings and general information on hiking and biking in the area. The presentations will include an overview of the history and geology of the area and to make the most of your weekend outdoors. We will provide the fire so bring your marshmallows for a fun evening under the stars.

Farmers Market in Trinidad
TRINIDAD— The Farmers Market returns this summer with fresh produce, and other delicious foods, arts, crafts, music and more at Central Park every Saturday morning from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Don’t miss it!  July 1st through Oct. 12.

Aguilar Festival and Car Show
AGUILAR— On Saturday, Aug. 5, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., check out the Annual Street Festival and Car Show, a hidden gem of Colorado. There will be craft and food vendors, car show, parade, free kids activities, live music Dynamix and Grupo Vive, Native American dancers, beer garden and a library book sale.

ROAR Relay for Life Big Event
TRINIDAD— ROAR for Relay for Life is having their annual big event on Saturday, Aug. 5 at Central Park in Trinidad. Opening ceremony is 4:30 p.m. with cancer survivor & caregiver lap following,  survivor and caregiver dinner starts at 5:30 p.m. with Luminaria lap at 9 p.m. Folks can walk, run or bike around the track in honor of loved ones fighting the fight, loved ones lost and celebrating our survivors. There will also be human foosball, live DJ, music bingo, whipped cream pie eating contest, zumba, sand art, kids scavenger hunt, 50/50 Raffle, Denver Bronco memorabilia items auction, Face Painting, and more. Yummy concessions too!! Anyone of any age can join us in the fight against cancer!

Terry Lakes and his Harmonicas at Trinidad Lake State Park
TRINIDAD— Joins us at the Trinidad Lake State Park Amphitheater on Saturday, Aug 5, 7 p.m. for some harmonica fun. Terry Lakes will be entertaining us with foot stompin’ bluegrass, Irish tunes and funky blues.

Pancake Breakfast with Spanish Peaks Volunteer Firefighters
AGUILAR— Come join the Spanish Peaks Volunteer Firefighters on Sunday, Aug. 6, 7 – 11 a.m. at the Aguilar Fire Station for the annual Pancake Breakfast. This event is sponsored by Ringos and the Spanish Peaks Fire Aux. Adults are $10, children 12 and under are $5. For more information please contact chereeharder34@gmail.com

The Cedar Street Urban Play Gardens summer picnic
TRINIDAD— Join the fun on Sunday, Aug. 6, 3 – 7 p.m. at the Cedar Street Urban Play Gardens for their sumer picnic and cook out. Bring a dish to share and enjoy good vibes, drum circles and great company.

National Night Out
TRINIDAD— Friday, Aug. 11, 4 – 9 p.m. National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, more caring places to live. This is a free community event at Kit Carson Park in Trinidad and will include food and fun activities for youth. Presented by the Trinidad Police Department and area Emergency Responders.

Second Saturday Trail work day
TRINIDAD— Join Trinidad Trails Alliance on Saturday, Aug. 12, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Fishers Peak State Park. Help build and maintain trails are our newest state park. All levels of experience are welcome. Tools and snacks will be provided, please bring your own gloves, water and sunscreen. For more information please contact Jenn Green at 719-859-0379 or email at trinidadtrailsalliance@gmail.com.

COLFAX

Cool Summer Nights Concert Series
ANGEL FIRE— Every Friday night, 5 p.m. through Sept. 9th the Cool Summer Nights Concert Series in Frontier Park will offer free live music from national and regional acts. Grab a lawn chair and bring your friends for a fun filled night of music.

Farmers Market in Cimarron
CIMARRON— Come one, come all! The Cimarron Chamber is hosting the summer’s Farmers Market at the Village Park held on Saturdays now through Labor day from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. If you are interested in becoming a vendor please call 575-376-2417 or email cimarronnm@gmail.com

A Day at the Beach- Relay for Life
RATON— Come join the fun for a great cause on Saturday, Aug. 5, 12 – 8 p.m. at the Raton Tiger Stadium. There will be music, games, concessions, guest speaks and a Luminaria Lighting. For more information please call Julian Puentes  Gutierres at 505-652-8341.

Community baby shower
RATON— You’re invited to a baby shower to benefit all the soon to be moms in our community. Saturday, Aug. 5, 2 – 4 p.m. at St. Patrick’s – St. Joseph’s Parish Hall, 105 Buena Vista St. Please bring gifts such as diapers, blankets, clothes and anything a new family may need.

Angel Fire Farmers Market
ANGEL FIRE— Come enjoy, shopping al fresco at the Angel Fire Resort Farmers Market. Every Sunday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. until September 3. The market will bring you fresh produce, art and live music. Join the fun while shopping locally at Frontier Park, Mountain View BLVD, Angel Fire.

Live Gospel Music
ANGEL FIRE— Morning Star Restaurant hosts live Gospel Music the first Monday of every month at 6 p.m. All are welcome to attend this interdenominational worship and prayer and listen to great contemporary and classic Gospel.

Night Sky Viewing
CAPULIN— On Saturday evenings around the new moon, join rangers as they use telescopes to explore the night sky. Join us Saturday, Aug. 12, 8 p.m. Wear layered warm clothing and follow the red lights from the visitor center to the viewing area. Capulin Volcano National Monument is located at 46 Volcano Hwy.

Volcano Festival
CAPULIN— Come learn about the unique geology and volcanology of Capulin Volcano and the Raton-Clayton Volcanic Field the weekend of Aug. 18th and 19th, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Two full days of volcano, geologic talks, face painting, demonstrations, special hikes and ranger programs, games, and prizes!

Upcoming Events for July 27, 2023

OUR WORLD

Parade of Homes

OUR WORLD— Code of the West Real Estate is proud to present this years Parade of Homes on Saturday, July 29, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. in La Veta, Cuchara, Trinidad and Aguilar and Sunday, July 30, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. in Walsenburg. Discover your dream home s we embark on an exciting parade of homes through an array of amazing properties. Don’t miss this opportunity to find the perfect place to call home. For more information check out the ad on page ??

World Journal office moving

OUR WORLD— That’s right, we’re making the big move! We appreciate your patience as we move to our new space. Our main office in Walsenburg will be closed Thursday, July 27 – Monday, Aug. 1, so we can get everything taken apart, moved and reassembled. You can still find us easily, we’re only moving two doors to the north. Our new address will be 504 Main Street, Walsenburg.

HUERFANO

SPLD Board of Trustees opening
 
WALSENBURG— The Spanish Peaks Library District Board of Trustees is looking for new members and alternate members.  If you can devote one to two hours per month, come be a part of an energetic, informed and active board.  The current Board of Trustees is dedicated to moving the library forward, and upward, after a couple of hard years during Covid.   All of our staff are dedicated, along with the Board of Trustees to keep the library active and engaged in the community.  The board meets every third Tuesday at 2 p..m, with our Building Expansion Committee meeting at 1:15pm.  Not to worry if you haven’t been on a Board of volunteered before.  We have a terrific handbook and regularly have Board member training from the Colorado Library Consortium.  If this is something that would appeal to you or someone you know, please contact Lisa Wagner, Board of Trustees President, at 719-250-9450.

SPLD Presents a Kite Festival

WALSENBURG— Join the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg at Fiesta Park on Thursday, July 27, 10 a.m.  This is the final party for our Summer Reading Program and it’s a big one!  Kites will be provided as well as drinks and ice pops.  Lawn games will also be set up for play.  This will be the last chance to pick up your prizes.  Don’t miss the fun!

Drawing class at MoF

WALSENBURG— Thursday, July 27,  2 p.m. Museum of Friends is inviting participants to a free, small intimate class in basic drawing with Harold Vargas, no age requirements. Those Interested should and meet Harold and sign up. Basic materials will be provided.

Huerfano Farmer’s Market Schedule

HUERFANO— Our local farmers markets are going strong! Don’t forget to stop by one or all of these for the best local goodies around.
La Veta Farmers Market, every Thursday, 3 – 5 p.m. next to the library on Main Street.
Cuchara Farmers Market, every Friday, 4 – 6 p.m. at the Cuchara Mountain Mercantile at the base of the mountain park.
Gardner Farmers Market, every Saturday, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. under the pavilion next to the Methodist church.
Walsenburg Farmers Market, Every Sunday 12 -2 p.m. at Heritage Park on Main Street and the railroad tracks.

 “Beat the Heat” Indoor Fundraiser Rummage Sale

LA VETA— Friday and Saturday, July 28th & 29th 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Christ the King Catholic Church Parish Hall on Main St. in will a fundraising rummage sale, hosted by St. Anne’s Guild. There will be a variety of new & pre owned household, hardware, electrical & miscellaneous items!

Cardboard Sculpture at LVSA

LA VETA— The La Veta School of the Arts is pleased to offer Cardboard Sculpture with educator Sharona Whitley.  Students will have fun making a sculpture and learning to use cardboard construction tools creatively. All tools are kid friendly and safe to use. Cardboard Sculpture takes place at LVSA for students 6 and older (younger, with adult supervision) LVSA is on Ryus Ave. across from town park in La Veta on Friday, July 28 from 1 – 3 p.m. More information and registration available at www.thelvsa.org, or by calling 719.742.3421. Cost is $10 per class, per child; early registration reduces the fee to $5.

Francisco Fort Street Dance

LA VETA— Friday, July 28, 5 – 9 p.m. Francisco Fort Day kick off event and street dance on Francisco Street in La Veta. This is a free and open to all! Featuring food from Mario the Corn Master and music by Dynamix. Co-sponsored by the Huatajolla Heritage Foundation.

Stained Glass Class at LVSA

LA VETA— Design and construct a stained glass window start to finish.  Students will use a “soft mind” design technique and the copper foil method in this two and a half day class.  There will be specific instruction to develop proficiency in the use of tools and materials.  You will also learn an appreciation of the nature of glass and the expressive potential of radiant light and color harmony.  The lab fee will cover all materials and shared tool cost. Friday, July 28, 6 – 9 p.m., Saturday, July 29 & Sunday, July 30, 9 a.m. – noon and 1 – 4 p.m. $185  with a lab fee of $65. For more information and to registrater visit www.thelvsa.org, or by call 719.742.3421.

Summer Classic Cruise Nights

WALSENBURG— Come out and join the fun for Classic Cruise Nights, this Friday, July 28, 7 p.m. (new time)  We’ll meet at the Huerfano County Community Center in Walsenburg then cruise Main St and Walsen Ave. Afterwards we’ll meet up at Heritage Park and show off them beauties to the community. For more information please contact Anna Vigil at 719-989-8055.

Cuchara Valley Archery Shoot

CUCHARA— Saturday, July, 29 and Sunday July, 30, join Cuchara Vallery Archery at Cuchara Mountain Park for their archery shoot.  $35 per person, $10, 18 years old or younger, FREE 10 years old or under. Ticket sales start at 7 a.m. No broad heads. Over 25 3D targets. Located at the Cuchara Mountain Park. For more information contact us at (719) 989-8678, CucharaValleyArchery.com or CucharaValleyArchery@gmail.com.

Annual Redhawk Open

LA VETA— On Saturday, July 29 the Redhawks will be having their annual golf tournament at Grandote Peaks Golf Course. The cost is $125 per person scramble – teams of 4 and includes green fee, cart, lunch. Deadline to register Wednesday, July 26. To register please contact Lon Goemmer at 719-989-0485.

Francisco Fort Day

LA VETA— Saturday, July 29. The day begins with a Pancake Breakfast at 7:30 a.m. $8 adult,  $5 children 10 and under.  Serving pancakes, sausage, juice, milk, and coffee.  All proceeds go to the Francisco Fort Museum. A full day of fun and free events to follow. A variety of musicians, storytellers,and historical characters, including Kit Carson will make an appearance. The Colonel’s Sarsaparilla brewed by Mountain Merman available in the Saloon, food from Mario the Cornmaster and lots of games and activities for kids. Sandy Dolak will be there sharing the Pictorial Archive of 25 Founding Families of Huerfano County. It will be available for viewing in the
Hispano room in the West Wing at the museum. All events are free and open to the public. Full details at https://www.franciscofort.org/events-calendar.

Twin Peaks Motorfest

LA VETA— Come enjoy a day of fun in the Rocky Mountain sunshine, bring your trucks, side by sides and other toys on Saturday, July 29, gates open at 8 a.m.  Spectators are $10 per day, Pit Pass is $20 per day. $5 for kids 5-13 years old and kids under 5 are free. Concessions available for purchase, cash only. Located west of Walsenburg between mile marker 292 & 293 on Highway 160, look for the checkered flags and banners on the South side of the highway.

SPLD Presents Book Talk

WALSENBURG— Join the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg for their program Book Talk – Trail of the Espinoza Outlaws, with author Mike Espinoza, Saturday, July 29, 1 p.m. Actual incidents in the late 1850’s sparked 3 generations to bring together a historical narrative of betrayal, vindication, murder, and land theft in a reign of terror from 1857-1863.  Don’t miss this informative program!

Fox Theatre Outdoor Movie

WALSENBURG— Join the Fox Theatre on Saturday, July 29 at sunset for their outdoor showing of Mr. 3000 at Fiesta Park in Walsenburg. Bring a blanket to sit on and maybe some bug spray (just in case) and enjoy an evening under the stars.

Mushrooms of Spanish Peaks Country

LA VETA— Local Interpretive Naturalist Bob Kennemer will present a 90 minute lecture and slideshow on the mushrooms found in southern Sangre de Cristos and Spanish Peaks region. Topics include: how to ID mushrooms, equipment needed for harvesting mushrooms, the ethics and rules of harvesting mushrooms, various uses of mushrooms, how to locate mushrooms, and much more. Sample mushrooms will be on display along with suggested books. Handouts included. This program is wildly fun, entertaining, and educational. Sunday, July 30, 2 p.m. Cost $10:00 per person, pay at the door.  Arrive early, space is limited.

Walsenburg seeks community input on future law enforcement  

WALSENBURG— Plan to attend one of a series of metings being held Thursday July 20 to determine how the City of Walsenburg should handle law enforcement in the future.  The sessions will be held Monday, July 31,  8:30-9:30 a.m., 10-11 a.m., and 5-6 p.m., in the city council chambers, 525 S. Albert Ave.
Those interested in participating are encouraged to register on the City of Walsenburg website, https://cityofwalsenburg.colorado.gov/, or Facebook page, or by calling Deputy City Clerk Rick Colander at 719-695-1031.

West Peak Treeline

CUCHARA— Come join us for a hike on Monday, July 31, 9 – 2 p.m. This hike is to the tree line of West Spanish Peak. Please come prepared. Bring a lunch, rain gear and wear appropriate shoes. All hikes meet at the Community Center.

Little Flamingo Story Time

WALSENBURG— Every Monday 10:30 – 11 a.m. at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg Mrs. Flamingo will be featuring books, songs, felt storyboard, puppets and more!  Recommended ages 0-6yrs.

Party on Platform 9 3/4: A wizardly gathering

LA VETA— Join the La Veta Library at Mountain Merman Brewing Company on Monday, July 31 at 6 p.m. for a night of magical fun! An exciting community event for all generations! Dress up as your favorite character/creature, or wear your muggle clothes! Fun activities & games for kids & adults! Special Themed Drink Releases, Wizard and Muggle approved! (21+ and family friendly beverages on tap).

Wildflowers in the Weeds Nature Walks

LA VETA-  Learn how to ID wildflowers, along with edible, medicinal, useful, and dangerous wild plants. Gentle one hour nature walks led every Wednesday, from 5 to 6 p.m. by local Interpretive Naturalist Bob Kennemer. Wild berries are coming on and wildflowers are at their peak! Cost $5.00 per person. Class size limited to 10.  Wednesday, Aug. 2, La Veta area and Wednesday, Aug. 9, Cuchara area.   Handouts included. Pre Registration required 24 hours in advance, and to learn more, email Bob at: bobkennemer@gmail.com

Huerfano County Community Coalition

WALSENBURG— The Spanish Peaks Business Alliance is sponsoring the next Huerfano County Community Coalition meeting on Thursday, Aug. 3, 12 p.m. Please join us for our first meeting since spring at the Huerfano County Community Center in Walsenburg.

HCHS meeting

WALSENBURG— The next meeting of the Huerfano County Historical Society will be held on Thursday, Aug. 3 at 4 p.m. at the Huerfano Heritage Center at 114 W. 6th St. All persons interested in our local history are encouraged to attend.

Collage at LVSA

LA VETA— The La Veta School of the Arts is pleased to offer Collage with instructor Lana Thomas-Wachterman on Friday, August 4, 1 – 3 p.m. This class has students create a work of art in which paper, photos, fabric, and more are stuck down onto a surface. Then students can use markers, paint, ink stamps and other fun additions to the surface. This class takes place at LVSA for students 6 and older (younger, with adult supervision). LVSA is on Ryus Ave. across from the town park in La Veta. . More information and to register visit www.thelvsa.org, or by calling 719.742.3421. Cost is $10 per class, per child; early registration reduces the fee to $5.

Movie Matinee: “The Last Word”

LA VETA— Join us at the La Veta Public Library for a movie matinee as we show “The Last Word” starring Shirley McLaine and Amanda Seyfried on Friday, Aug. 4, 2 p.m!

First Friday Art Walk

LA VETA— Friday, Aug. 4 4:30 – 7 p.m. Gather friends, family and youth that love pondering inspiring art, or enjoy a solo excursion exploring shops and galleries. Meet local, national and internationally recognized artists. Dine at nearby restaurants and breweries. Estelle Center for Creative Arts will also be having their Grand Opening at 105 W Ryus Ave.  Check out the beautiful renovations, meet the founder, Jennifer Peterson, and learn more about their exciting plans for art retreats and community events. First Friday is sponsored by the La Veta Creative District and Colorado Creative Industries. For more information, info@LaVetaCreativeDistrict.org & LaVetaCreativeDistrict.org.

Classical Portrait Sculpting Class at LVSA

LA VETA— Learn the methods of European master sculptors for achieving a representational portrait in clay.  Maria Battista will introduce you to the anatomy of the human head and face, key measurements and visual training as you create a 1/4 size life-sized portrait from a live model using oil-based clay.  Classes will be held on Friday, Aug. 4, 6 – 9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m -1 and 1 – 4 p.m. All levels of experience are welcome.  $185 (lab fee of $68 for clay with a shared expense of the model).  All levels of experience are welcome.

CS Stylings Haircut marathon fundraiser

WALSENBURG— This year we have teamed up with Small World Gaming Lounge and Gub Gubs Pizza to raise money for El Fandango dance program her in Walsenburg. We will be giving $15 haircuts on Saturday, Aug 5, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. First come first serve but don’t worry we ill have games set up at Small World Gaming Lounge located at the back of the salon. We will have a free slice of pizza waiting for you after your hair cut as well. All proceeds go directly to the El Fandango Dance program.

The Libre Community Tour

HUERFANO— The Huerfano County Historical Society presents The Libre Community Tour on Saturday, Aug. 5, 9 a.m. at the Walsenburg Mining Museum. Allow 3-4 hours. Located in the shadow of the Wet Mountains, Libre is one of just a few countercultural living experiments from the 1960s still in existence. It is distinguished by its variety of architectural innovations, as well as, their community decision to be stewards of the land in an ecological sense. Libre still thrives today as a hub for the arts and other creative ventures. The spirit of helping each other and a tribal aspect of kinship lives on. $15 per member. $20 per person for non-members. 12-18 years old are $10. Children under 12 are free. For reservations call The Heritage Center at (719) 738-2346 or email huerfanoheritagecenter@outlook.com. Lunch at the Gardner Chuckwagon is suggested for after the tour.

Cuchara Art Show

CUCHARA— The Cuchara Valley Recreation Program has revived the Cuchara tradition of having an Art Show for all to enjoy. A nice gathering place for families and friends. Come support local artists at the Art Show on Saturday, Aug. 5 and Sunday, Aug. 6, 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. at the Cuchara Rec Center.

Gardner Chuckwagon

GARDNER— This year marks the 79th anniversary of the Gardner Chuckwagon. Join the fun on Saturday, Aug. 5, 12 – 4 p.m. at the Gardner Methodist Church. Adults are $10 and children under 12 are $5. Sponsored by First National Bank – Huerfano County Branch.

Rattlesnakes, NO BULL

LA VETA— Join Naturalist, Bob Kennemer and the Spanish Peaks Outdoor Center on Sunday, Aug. 6, 2 p.m. for an all ages lesson on Rattlesnakes. Learn the facts and myths of our slithering friends. How to avoid getting bit. What to do and what not to do if bitten. Featuring live nonvenomous snakes! Located at the La Veta Public Library. Adults, 16 and up, are $5. Children 15 and under are free with a paying adult. (Pay at the door/no preregistration).

Methodist Peach Pre-Order

LA VETA— Final orders for those delicious, #1 Palisade peaches need to be received by Friday, Aug. 4. Order forms are available throughout La Veta — including blank forms at the door of La Veta United Methodist Church on the corner of Main and Virginia. Orders
will be ready for pickup on Sunday, August 27, between 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.. When filling out your form, please make sure to include your name, phone and email address so we may send you a reminder for pickup. All orders must be accompanied by cash or check. Should you have any questions, visit our website at www.lavetaumc.org.

SCCY Palisade peach fundraiser

WALSENBURG— SCCY is pleased to announce the return of our Palisade Peach Fundraiser. The peaches will be at 513 Main st. in Walsenburg on Wednesday, August 30th.  You can place orders by calling Myra at 719-989-7813 or Cathy 719-989-0122.  This fundraiser helps support summer programming for the youth who attend SCCY.  As always, we thank the community for your continued support of SCCY and helping the youth of our community realize their full potential.  10 lbs box is $29 and $18 is $39.

Photography Show at SPACe

LA VETA— The Annual Photography Show at SPACe is coming up soon! Judge for awards will be Jeff Madeen, an artist, designer, sculptor, photographer, and gallery owner from Pueblo. He will determine the winners of $500 for 1st Place, $250 for 2nd Place and $150 for 3rd Place. Show dates are Aug. 15 – Sept. 10. There is a $10 fee to enter with a limit of 3 pieces per artists. The Photography Show is a juried show. Photography must be the original concept and creation of the artist. Works created either on film or digitally will be accepted with no categories. Artwork is due at SPACe for consideration Aug. 10, 11, & 12. All photos must be appropriately framed. See all the details on the SPACe website www.spanishpeaksarts.org

LAS ANIMAS

Las Animas County Fair

TRINIDAD— The Country Pride County Wide themed county fair will be held Tuesday, July 25 – Saturday, July 29th at the Las Animas County Fairgrounds in Trinidad. For a full list of events visit Las Animas County Fair on Facebook.

Last weekend for Artocade

TRINIDAD— As much as we don’t want to say goodbye, the time has come. This is the last weekend of the famous Art Cartopia Museum in Trinidad. Be sure to say “farewell” on last time this Friday and Saturday, July 28 and 29, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.  Our hearts are heavy but we are grateful to been able to experience such a wonderful community staple for so many years.

Final Friday Mountain Bike Meet-up

TRINIDAD— On Friday, July 28, 6:30 – 8 p.m. join Tarantula for a lap (or two or three) on Poison Canyon at Fishers Peak State Park. 1 lap is about 5 miles and 500 ft. We highly encourage carpooling from the shop! Helmets are of course required.

Sound of Music at Main Street LIVE

TRINIDAD— Main Street LIVE presents the world renowned The Sound of Music, opening Friday, July 28 and running three weekends through August 13, with Friday and Saturday performances at 7 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m.  This beloved musical is, of course, perfect for all audiences and a special event for families.  Tickets are available at www.mainstreetlive.org or can be purchased over the phone by calling the Box Office at 719 846 4765. Don’t miss this beautiful production!

Friday Night Live at TLSP

TRINIDAD— Every Friday night at 8 p.m. the Trinidad Lake State Park Ranger/interpreter will present a program of interest to campers and the general public alike. Join us around the fire ring at the park amphitheater to get the latest in fishing activity, wildlife sightings and general information on hiking and biking in the area. The presentations will include an overview of the history and geology of the area and to make the most of your weekend outdoors. We will provide the fire so bring your marshmallows for a fun evening under the stars.

Farmers Market in Trinidad

TRINIDAD— The Farmers Market returns this summer with fresh produce, and other delicious foods, arts, crafts, music and more at Central Park every Saturday morning from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Don’t miss it!  July 1st through Oct. 12.

Jaquie Gipson “Hometown Stories” at TLSP

TRINIDAD— Jaquie began playing the guitar at the age of 14. With inspiration from Leo Kottke, Michael Hedges, Preston Reed and others, Jaquie has developed a style of her own, incorporating two hand tapping and
percussion with more or less traditional fingerstyle playing. Join us at the Amphitheater at Trinidad Lake State Park on Saturday, July 29, 7 p.m.

Classic Car Show

TRINIDAD— L & R Entertainment and Lee’s BBQ presents 1930’s – 1960’s Car Show on Sunday, July 30th, 1 – 5 p.m. Check out the classics at 825 San Pedro Ave, Trinidad. For more information contact Linda at 719-680-8887. This will require a portion of East Kansas Ave., just past 111 East Kansas, to the west side intersection of San Pedro Ave. to be closed beginning at 11 a.m. on Sunday, July 30th. Street will reopen at 5 p.m.

First Friday Art Walk

TRINIDAD— Check out Main St and Commercial St in Trinidad on Friday, Aug. 4, 5 – 8 p.m. for thier First Friday Art Walk. The evening will be filled with music, art and good company.

Aguilar Festival and Car Show

AGUILAR— On Saturday, Aug. 5, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., check out the Annual Street Festival and Car Show, a hidden gem of Colorado. There will be craft and food vendors, car show, parade, free kids activities, live music Dynamix and Grupo Vive, Native American dancers, beer garden and a library book sale.

ROAR Relay for Life Big Event

TRINIDAD— ROAR for Relay for Life is having their annual big event on Saturday, Aug. 5 at Central Park in Trinidad. Opening ceremony is 4:30 p.m. with cancer survivor & caregiver lap following,  survivor and caregiver dinner starts at 5:30 p.m. with Luminaria lap at 9 p.m. Folks can walk, run or bike around the track in honor of loved ones fighting the fight, loved ones lost and celebrating our survivors. There will also be human foosball, live DJ, music bingo, whipped cream pie eating contest, zumba, sand art, kids scavenger hunt, 50/50 Raffle, Denver Bronco memorabilia items auction, Face Painting, and more. Yummy concessions too!! Anyone of any age can join us in the fight against cancer!

COLFAX
   
Farmers Market in Cimarron

CIMARRON— Come one, come all! The Cimarron Chamber is hosting the summer’s Farmers Market at the Village Park held on Saturdays now through Labor day from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. If you are interested in becoming a vendor please call 575-376-2417 or email cimarronnm@gmail.com

Angel Fire Farmers Market

ANGEL FIRE— Come enjoy, shopping al fresco at the Angel Fire Resort Farmers Market. Every Sunday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. until September 3. The market will bring you fresh produce, art and live music. Join the fun while shopping locally at Frontier Park, Mountain View BLVD, Angel Fire.

Colfax County Fair

SPRINGER— “Gettin’ Groovy” is this year’s theme for the Annual Colfax County Fair being held Monday, July 24 – Sunday, July 30. Admission is $5 and children under 5 are free. For more information check out Colfax county Fair on Facebook.

Annual Volunteer Mixer

RATON— Raton Mainstreet invites you to the Annual Volunteer Mixer on Thursday, July 27, 5:30 p.m. at the Stakeout. We are looking for volunteers for the 8th Annual Gate City Music Festival.  Appetizers will be provided.

36th Annual Angel Fire Invitational

ANGEL FIRE—  Join the most unique multi-day fundraising golf tournaments in the region attracting golfers from New Mexico and around the nation the weekend of July 27 – July 29. To register or see a full list of events visit https://nmalliance.org/angel-fire-invitational-golf-tournament/

Mayor Lopez’s Run/Walk

SPRINGER— Join Mayor Lopez on Saturday, July 29, 8 a.m. at Museum Park for a run or walk to raise money for The Veterans Memorial Fund. There will be a limited number of shirts handed out, come early! The Springer Fire Department will be selling breakfast burritos afterwards at the Museum Park.

BBQ and school supply giveaway

RATON— Zia Youth Presents the end of the summer family bbq and school supply giveaway on Saturday, July 29, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. behind the aquatic center. Join us as we wrap up the summer of 2023 and kickoff the new school year with bbq from 11 a.m. – 1p.m., school supply giveaway, DJ, bouncy castle and lots of fun games and activities for the whole family to enjoy.

Upcoming Events for July 20, 2023

OUR WORLD

SCCOG Board Meeting

HUERFANO/LAS ANIMAS— The South Central Council of Governments next board meeting (open to public) is scheduled on Thursday, July 27, at 1 p.m.  Contact Donna Sue at SCCOG at 719-845-1133 X223 for zoom link if you would like to join the meeting.

HUERFANO

SPLD Board of Trustees opening

WALSENBURG— The Spanish Peaks Library District Board of Trustees is looking for new members and alternate members.  If you can devote one to two hours per month, come be a part of an energetic, informed and active board.  The current Board of Trustees is dedicated to moving the library forward, and upward, after a couple of hard years during Covid.   All of our staff are dedicated, along with the Board of Trustees to keep the library active and engaged in the community.  The board meets every third Tuesday at 2 p..m, with our Building Expansion Committee meeting at 1:15pm.  Not to worry if you haven’t been on a Board of volunteered before.  We have a terrific handbook and regularly have Board member training from the Colorado Library Consortium.  If this is something that would appeal to you or someone you know, please contact Lisa Wagner, Board of Trustees President, at 719-250-9450.

Walking history tour

CUCHARA— Join us on our very popular and always changing Walking History Tour of Cuchara where you will learn some of the earliest history of our beloved Cuchara.   We have updated the tour to include some simple geologic history, Native American information and Land Grant maps. You will see old photos of our area and learn stories of some of our earliest pioneers.
Join us in our walk or ride along in a golf cart on Thursday, July 20, 9 a.m., we’ll meet at the Cuchara Rec Center.

SPLD Presents “Chicana Activists of Colorado”

WALSENBURG— Join the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg for “Chicana Activists of Colorado” Author Book Talk Thursday, July 20, 2 p.m.  Join us in welcoming Pueblo author Deborah Martinez as she discusses her book about the amazing history of Chicana women in Colorado.  Abuelas that RSVP to Sandy J. at 719 989-8438 will receive a free copy of the book.  Everyone in the community is invited to attend.

Bear Talk with Bob Holder

CUCHARA— Colorado Wildlife Officer Bob Holder will speak about our Cuchara bears on Thursday, July 20, 5:30 p.m at the Cuchara Rec Center. Come to and ask questions about our bears, learn about our bears, and help our bears!

Weekend activities at Lathrop

WALSENBURG—  Friday, July 21, 10 a.m. spend the day at the park. In the morning come walk and sketch
along the Wetlands walk. Bring a sketchpad, pencil and any other supplies you feel like using.
At 1 p.m. come to the Visitor’s Center and learn about trees, count tree rings and decorate a tree medallion.
Then in the evening at 7 p.m. local guitar musician Tuco Tavera, often seen and heard at local open mics in Trinidad, Aquilar, Walsenburg, and La Veta brings Rockabilly  sounds of the 60’s to the amphitheater.
On Saturday, July 22 join us for another full day at the park. Start your morning at 10 a.m. with a puzzle hike: Come on a short hike, solve a puzzle and win a prize, meet at the amphitheater.
At 1 p.m. meet at the visitors center and learn about owls and dissect an owl pellet to find out what they eat.
Saturday evening at 7 p.m. join us at the at the amphitheater again and hear locals Willson and McKee bring Celtic and contemporary folk music together for an uncommon aural experience! Not your grandfather’s Irish music! Multiple instruments, harmony vocals, and downright fun humans!
On Tuesday, July 25, 6 p.m.  bring your (leashed) dogs, for a walk with Trisha along the Cuerno Verde Trail. We’ll ,meet at the Visitor Center, be sure to bring water.
As always, park passes are required for all vehicles.

Cuchara Jewelry Show

CUCHARA— Check out the Cuchara Jewelry Show this
Friday, July 21 and Saturday, July 22, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. at the Cuchara Community Center benefitting SPAWP.

Acrylic Painting Workshop

LA VETA— Complete two projects during this one day workshop at the SPACe Gallery in La Veta, Friday, July 21, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. and a second workshop on Saturday, July 29th. Learn about painting with acrylics, all materials provided, great for beginners. Instructed by Coni Grant, noted workshop teacher from Alamosa. $70 fee plus $20 for materials. Contact SPACe at 719 742-3074 for information or email spanishpeaksarts@gmail.com.

Charcoal and Pastels at LVSA

LA VETA— The La Veta School of the Arts is pleased to offer Charcoal and Pastels with instructor Vashti Thomas-Wachterman. Charcoal and Pastels takes place at LVSA for students 6 and older (younger, with adult supervision) LVSA is on Ryus Ave. across from town park in La Veta on Friday, July 21, 1 – 3 p.m.  Cost is $10 per class, per child; early registration reduces the fee to $5.
On Saturday, July 22 and Sunday July 23, LVSA will be hosting Drawing with Pastels and Charcoal with Peggy Zehring. No experience is necessary. $150    9 a.m. – noon and 1 – 4 p.m. both days.
For more information and to registrater visit www.thelvsa.org, or by call 719.742.3421.

Summer Classic Cruise Nights

WALSENBURG— Come out and join the fun for Classic Cruise Nights, this Friday, July 21, 6 p.m. We’ll meet at the Huerfano County Community Center in Walsenburg then cruise Main St and Walsen Ave. Afterwards we’ll meet up at Heritage Park and show off them beauties to the community. For more information please contact Anna Vigil at 719-989-8055.

Fox Rocks the Block

WALSENBURG— Fox Theatre presents and intimate evening with Jeffe the G.M.C. featuring Elimence, Stoney Berts, TMC! and Mastermind on Friday, July 21, 7 p.m. at Miners Plaza in Walsenburg.

Travelers at SPACe

LA VETA— Are you traveling? Do you plan to travel? Or just dreaming? Be sure to see the new art exhibit at the SPACe Gallery in La Veta  “Travelers”. Everyone is invited to the opening reception this Saturday, July 22, 5 – 7 p.m. The show includes 18 area artists, each with their own unique statement of traveling. The show will be on display until Aug. 12. The SPACe Gallery is operated by the Spanish Peaks Arts Council, a nonprofit organization. Hours are Tuesdays – Saturdays, 11 am – 4 pm. Call 719 742-3074 for information.

SPLD Presents Gardening 101

WALSENBURG— Sunday, July 23, 1 p.m.  This month we’ll be playing with Guerilla Gardening by making seed balls to toss in unexpected places while learning the best ways to make our world full of Colorado wildflowers. Join the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg for their monthly Gardening 101 class.

24th Annual Sacred Sundance

GARDNER—  The Aztlan Native American Community Church is hosting the 24th annual Sacred Sundance celebration this year from July 23-30, 2023.  Purification is from July 23-26, Tree Day is July 26, and Sundance proper is July 27-30. GPS 7100 County Road 620 Gardner, CO 81040.  Meals are served each day and donations are appreciated.  No drugs, no dogs, no weapons, no bad vibes, no alcohol.  This is a sacred ceremony, no partying.  Come to Sundance with prayer in your heart.

Wildflower Wander

CUCHARA— Join the Cuchara Rec Center on Monday, July 24, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. We take a slow stroll along Purgatoire River viewing, photographing and learning the names, uses and habits of up to 70 different species of wildflowers in our area. Come join like-minded folks who enjoy knowing about our beautiful wildflowers, being out in the forest and meeting new folks. This activity is free. Please bring wildflower books if you have them, cameras, comfortable shoes, rain gear, water and pack a lunch.

Little Flamingo Story Time

WALSENBURG— Every Monday 10:30 – 11 a.m. at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg Mrs. Flamingo will be featuring books, songs, felt storyboard, puppets and more!  Recommended ages 0-6yrs.

Historic La Veta Cemetery tours

LA VETA— Join historian Nancy Christofferson for Historic La Veta Cemetery Tours on Tuesday July 25th, 1 – 3 p.m. This is free and open to the public.  Sponsored by Francisco Fort Museum,  meet at 300 E Grand St, La Veta, CO 81055, bring water, put on sunscreen, and wear a hat! Call 719-742-5501 or email director@franciscofort.org for more information.

Annual Redhawk Open

LA VETA— On Saturday, July 29 the Redhawks will be having their annual golf tournament at Grandote Peaks Golf Course. The cost is $125 per person scramble – teams of 4 and includes green fee, cart, lunch. Deadline to register Wednesday, July 26. To register please contact Lon Goemmer at 719-989-0485.

Water Play, Fire Safety with LVFD

LA VETA— Learn about fire safety and then put out the summer heat with water fun at La Veta Public Library, Wednesday, July 26, 10 a.m. Expect to get wet! Bring spare clothes and a towel. For more info call La Veta Library @ 719-742-3572 or email stephanie@lvpl.org.

SPLD Presents a Kite Festival

WALSENBURG— Join the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg at Fiesta Park on Thursday, July 27, 10 a.m.  This is the final party for our Summer Reading Program and it’s a big one!  Kites will be provided as well as drinks and ice pops.  Lawn games will also be set up for play.  This will be the last chance to pick up your prizes.  Don’t miss the fun!

Cardboard Sculpture at LVSA

LA VETA— The La Veta School of the Arts is pleased to offer Cardboard Sculpture with educator Sharona Whitley.  Students will have fun making a sculpture and learning to use cardboard construction tools creatively. All tools are kid friendly and safe to use. Cardboard Sculpture takes place at LVSA for students 6 and older (younger, with adult supervision) LVSA is on Ryus Ave. across from town park in La Veta on Friday, July 28 from 1 – 3 p.m. More information and registration available at www.thelvsa.org, or by calling 719.742.3421. Cost is $10 per class, per child; early registration reduces the fee to $5.

Francisco Fort Street Dance

LA VETA— Friday, July 28, 5 – 9 p.m. Francisco Fort Day kick off event and street dance on Francisco Street in La Veta. This is a free and open to all! Featuring food from Mario the Corn Master and music by Dynamix. Co-sponsored by the Huatajolla Heritage Foundation.

Stained Glass Class at LVSA

LA VETA— Design and construct a stained glass window start to finish.  Students will use a “soft mind” design technique and the copper foil method in this two and a half day class.  There will be specific instruction to develop proficiency in the use of tools and materials.  You will also learn an appreciation of the nature of glass and the expressive potential of radiant light and color harmony.  The lab fee will cover all materials and shared tool cost. Friday, July 28, 6 – 9 p.m., Saturday, July 29 & Sunday, July 30, 9 a.m. – noon and 1 – 4 p.m. $185  with a lab fee of $65. For more information and to registrater visit www.thelvsa.org, or by call 719.742.3421.

Francisco Fort Day

LA VETA— Saturday, July 29. The day begins with a Pancake Breakfast at 7:30 am and lots of free events to follow. A variety of musicians, storytellers,and historical characters, including Kit Carson will make an appearance. The Colonel’s Sarsaparilla brewed by Mountain Merman available in the Saloon, food from Mario the Cornmaster and lots of games and activities for kids. All events are free and open to the public. Full details at https://www.franciscofort.org/events-calendar

Twin Peaks Motorfest

LA VETA— Come enjoy a day of fun in the Rocky Mountain sunshine, bring your trucks, side by sides and other toys on Saturday, July 29, gates open at 8 a.m.  Spectators are $10 per day, Pit Pass is $20 per day. $5 for kids 5-13 years old and kids under 5 are free. Concessions available for purchase, cash only. Located west of Walsenburg between mile marker 292 & 293 on Highway 160, look for the checkered flags and banners on the South side of the highway.

SPLD Presents Book Talk

WALSENBURG— Join the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg for their program Book Talk – Trail of the Espinoza Outlaws, with author Mike Espinoza, Saturday, July 29, 1 p.m. Actual incidents in the late 1850’s sparked 3 generations to bring together a historical narrative of betrayal, vindication, murder, and land theft in a reign of terror from 1857-1863.  Don’t miss this informative program!

Fox Theatre Outdoor Movie

WALSENBURG— Join the Fox Theatre on Saturday, July 29 at sunset for their outdoor showing of Mr. 3000 at Fiesta Park in Walsenburg. Bring a blanket to sit on and maybe some bug spray (just in case) and enjoy an evening under the stars.

Methodist Peach Pre-Order

LA VETA— Time is running out for you to place your order for those delicious, #1 Palisade peaches through La Veta United Methodist Church.  We are currently receiving orders and your order will be ready for pickup on Sunday, August 27, between 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Order forms are available throughout town—including blank forms at the door of La Veta United Methodist Church
on the corner of Main and Virginia. When filling out your form, please make sure to include your name, phone and email address so we may send you a reminder for pickup. All orders must be accompanied
by cash or check. Should you have any questions, visit our website at www.lavetaumc.org.

SCCY Palisade peach fundraiser

WALSENBURG— SCCY is pleased to announce the return of our Palisade Peach Fundraiser. The peaches will be at 513 Main st. in Walsenburg on Wednesday, August 30th.  You can place orders by calling Myra at 719-989-7813 or Cathy 719-989-0122.  This fundraiser helps support summer programming for the youth who attend SCCY.  As always, we thank the community for your continued support of SCCY and helping the youth of our community realize their full potential.  10 lbs box is $29 and $18 is $39.

Photography Show at SPACe

LA VETA— The Spanish Peaks Arts Council in La Veta invites photographers to enter the upcoming Photography Show Aug. 10 – 12. This is a juried and judged show with cash awards to winners for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places. The 1st place prize is $500. The judge choosing the winners will be Jeff Madeen, an artist, designer, sculptor, photographer, and gallery owner in Pueblo, Colorado.There are no categories, all forms of photography are welcome. For all the details, visit the SPACe website, www.spanishpeaksarts.org. or call 719 742-3074.

20th annual Stonewall Century Ride

HUERFANO— Registration for the 20th Annual Stonewall Century Ride is now open. We look forward to seeing you August 12, 2023 for our 20th anniversary! To register please visit www.Active.com.

LAS ANIMAS

Ranching for profit workshop

TRINIDAD— This two day workshop will explore how adaptable and managed grazing is key to improving profit in the ranching business. Learn how to improve rangeland health and productivity and create a profitable business that can stay in the family for generations. The workshop will be held on Thursday, July 20 and Friday, July 21, 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. at 1309 Beshoar Ave, Trinidad. A light breakfast and lunch will be provided both days. To registern please call 719-846-3681 and for more information go to the event calendar on www.birdconservancy.org .

Farmers Market in Trinidad

TRINIDAD— The Farmers Market returns this summer with fresh produce, and other delicious foods, arts, crafts, music and more at Central Park every Saturday morning from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Don’t miss it!  July 1st through Oct. 12.

Skatebox Derby

Trinidad—  The youth have been working hard on their cars, come check them out during the exhibition Race on Saturday, July 22, 2 p.m. at Skateland. For more information visit www. SocoSkateland.com

Movie Music Festival at Mt. Carmel Wellness

TRINIDAD— Saturday, July 22, 3 p.m. The Mt. Carmel Youth Orchestra presents Movie Music Festival at Mt. Carmel Wellness & Community Center Chapel, 911 Robinson Ave. The Youth Orchestra will be playing music selections from movie favorites. There is a $2 admission/donation requested and concessions will be available. All proceeds support the youth orchestra.

Wild and Scenic Film Festival

TRINIDAD— Check out the Purgatoire Watershed Community Wild and Scenic Film Festival on Saturday, July 22, 7 p.m. at Main Street Live, Join us for an exciting night of outdoor & community-oriented short films to expand your mind and inspire your next adventure! With a host of community partners, we’ll be showing a series of inspiring short films from around the world designed to engage and support ALL community members in getting outdoors for new adventures, as well as provide some interesting food for thought for next steps around community collaboration and expanding outdoor experiences in our watershed! This is a FREE event and all are welcome!

Edible, Medicinal, Dangerous, and useful wild plants

TRINIDAD— Saturday,  July  22, 7 p.m.  Join Trinidad Lake State Park staff in welcoming naturalist and environmental interpreter, Bob Kennemer. Bob will focus on edible, medicinal, dangerous, and useful wild plants found in the Spanish Peaks region. Native people, the early Spanish and European settlers all relied on wild plants as part of their day-to-day survival. This area is home to some of the most widely used edible and medicinal plants but also to some of the most deadly poisonous plants. Learn the dos and don’ts of harvesting wild plants along with a strong emphasis on safety and the environmental ethics of foraging.

Las Animas County Fair

TRINIDAD— The Country Pride County Wide themed county fair will be held Tuesday, July 25 – Saturday, July 29th at the Las Animas County Fairgrounds in Trinidad. For a full list of events visit Las Animas County Fair on Facebook.

Headstart health & enrollment fair

TRINIDAD— Get a “head start” on your child’s preschool health requirements.  Join us on Tuesday, July 25 at 1021 Pierce Street in Trinidad from noon to 3 p.m. for hearing, vision and developmental screenings.  New applications will be completed on-site.

PACT ACT Town Hall

TRINIDAD— On Wednesday, July 26, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. there will be a presentation about the new PACT ACT law that expands VA benefits and health to Vietnam, Gulf and Iraq/Afghanistan War veterans suffering from exposure to Agent Orange burn pits and other toxic substances while in service. Presented by NM VA Health Care System, Denver and Cheyenne Veterans Affairs Regional Offices and Sponsored by State of Colorado Division of Veterans Affairs and My. Carmel Wellness Center. This will be held at Mt. Carmel, 911 Robinson Ave, Trinidad. For more information please call Raymond Odum, Las Animas VSO 719-845-2589.

Sound of Music at Main Street LIVE

TRINIDAD— Main Street LIVE presents the world renowned The Sound of Music, opening Friday, July 28 and running three weekends through August 13, with Friday and Saturday performances at 7 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m.  This beloved musical is, of course, perfect for all audiences and a special event for families.  Tickets are available at www.mainstreetlive.org or can be purchased over the phone by calling the Box Office at 719 846 4765. Don’t miss this beautiful production!

Classic Car Show

TRINIDAD— L & R Entertainment and Lee’s BBQ presents 1930’s – 1960’s Car Show on Sunday, July 30th, 1 – 5 p.m. Check out the classics at 825 San Pedro Ave, Trinidad. For more information contact Linda at 719-680-8887.

Final Friday Mountain Bike Meet-up

TRINIDAD— On Friday, July 30, 6:30 – 8 p.m. join Tarantula for a lap (or two or three) on Poison Canyon at Fishers Peak State Park. 1 lap is about 5 miles and 500 ft. We highly encourage carpooling from the shop! Helmets are of course required.

COLFAX

Farmers Market in Cimarron

CIMARRON— Come one, come all! The Cimarron Chamber is hosting the summer’s Farmers Market at the Village Park held on Saturdays now through Labor day from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. If you are interested in becoming a vendor please call 575-376-2417 or email cimarronnm@gmail.com

Angel Fire Farmers Market

ANGEL FIRE— Come enjoy, shopping al fresco at the Angel Fire Resort Farmers Market. Every Sunday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. until September 3. The market will bring you fresh produce, art and live music. Join the fun while shopping locally at Frontier Park, Mountain View BLVD, Angel Fire.

Free Summer Concert

ANGEL FIRE— Kerry Grombacher and Aspen Black will playing a free concert on Friday, July 21, 7:30 at the Church with the Red Roof, 40 Westridge Rd. This duo songs tell’s stories of the people and events that shaped the west.

Run to Raton

RATON— Friday, July 21 and Saturday July 22, come to downtown Raton and for their annual Car and Bike Show plus so much more! Live music, food, vendors and even a beard and mustache competition. For more information visit the Run to Raton facebook page.

Bird Walk at Capulin

CAPULIN— Come out to an early morning bird walk with a ranger on Saturday, July 22, 7 – 8:30 a.m.  Bring your binoculars and be prepared to spot our fine flying feathered friends.

Colfax County Fair

SPRINGER— “Gettin’ Groovy” is this year’s theme for the Annual Colfax County Fair being held Monday, July 24 – Sunday, July 30. Admission is $5 and children under 5 are free. For more information check out Colfax county Fair on Facebook.

Resume and Skill building workshop

RATON— Learn to create a compelling resume, do’s and dont’s, formatting best practices and much more at the Center for Community Innovation, 130 Park Ave, Raton. This free workshops start on Tuesday, July 25. Please contact Bianca Patterson at 575-791-5156 to get registrered.

Angel Fire blood drive

ANGEL FIRE— On Wednesday, July 26, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. the Angel Fire Community Center will be hosting a blood drive. Please contact Laura at 505-246-1490 for information or to make an appointment. Walk ins are also welcome. Because of you, life doesn’t stop.

Annual Volunteer Mixer

RATON— Raton Mainstreet invites you to the Annual Volunteer Mixer on Thursday, July 27, 5:30 p.m. at the Stakeout. We are looking for volunteers for the 8th Annual Gate City Music Festival.  Appetizers will be provided.

36th Annual Angel Fire Invitational

ANGEL FIRE—  Join the most unique multi-day fundraising golf tournaments in the region attracting golfers from New Mexico and around the nation the weekend of July 27 – July 29. To register or see a full list of events visit https://nmalliance.org/angel-fire-invitational-golf-tournament/

Upcoming Events for July 13, 2023

HUERFANO

SPLD Board of Trustees opening

WALSENBURG— The Spanish Peaks Library District Board of Trustees is looking for new members and alternate members.  If you can devote one to two hours per month, come be a part of an energetic, informed and active board.  The current Board of Trustees is dedicated to moving the library forward, and upward, after a couple of hard years during Covid.   All of our staff are dedicated, along with the Board of Trustees to keep the library active and engaged in the community.  The board meets every third Tuesday at 2 p..m, with our Building Expansion Committee meeting at 1:15pm.  Not to worry if you haven’t been on a Board of volunteered before.  We have a terrific handbook and regularly have Board member training from the Colorado Library Consortium.  If this is something that would appeal to you or someone you know, please contact Lisa Wagner, Board of Trustees President, at 719-250-9450.

Youth Art Workshop

LA VETA— The annual Youth Art Workshop, sponsored by the Spanish Peaks Arts Council in La Veta, will be Monday, July 10- Friday, July 14, 9 am – Noon. The workshop is for young people ages 8 – 16 and is only $35 for four projects, all materials provided. This year’s theme is “Art Around the World” featuring Native American portraits, Chinese Mandalas, Japanese Sumi-e, and African designs. Call 719 742-3074 to register or email spanishpeaksarts@gmail.com

Artists wanted

LA VETA— The Spanish Peaks Arts Council in La Veta invites artists working in all media to enter the “Travelers” show at the SPACe Gallery. Bring art for the show today, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, July 13, 14, 15 between 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. There is a small $5 fee for each piece to help with operating expenses. For complete details visit www.spanishpeaksarts.org or call 719 742-3074.

Pie for all at fundraiser today

LA VETA— Sign up now for the Cuchara/La Veta Public Library Pie Baking Competition and FUNdraiser! We are excited to have a Pie Baking Competition and FUNdraiser for the Cuchara/La Veta Public Library! Bake TWO of the same pie, one for the contest, one for the FUNdraiser! Sign up now for the competition by contacting Peggy at peggy@lvpl.org or text 719-989-1531 Categories: Best Fruit, Best Cream/Chiffon/Meringue, Best Other Sweet, Best Savory, Best Crust.  Event will be held on Thursday, July 13 from 5 – 7 p.m. at Cuchara Community Center, 16500 State Hwy 12.

Sunset & Stars – Vista Point Hike

CUCHARA— We’ll meet at the Cuchara Community Center on Thursday, July 13,  7 p.m. to drive to Cordova Pass and hike about 3/4 of a mile to a grand overview of our Cuchara valley and beyond. We have time to meet new friends, enjoy a picnic and check out a wonderful sunset. As the sky grows dark, stars begin to pop out. A quick and simple astronomy lesson will be given so that you might be able to take your knowledge home with you. We walk back to the Cordova Pass parking lot with the help of flashlights.  Bring food, drinks, comfy shoes, flashlights, and warm clothes!

Weekend activities at Lathrop

WALSENBURG—  On Friday, July 14, 10 a.m. meet at the Wetlands Walk parking are and bring a sketchpad, pencil, pen, or preferred drawing tools and come
explore and sketch along the Wetlands Walk.
Friday, July 14, 7 p.m. at the Amphitheater, Bob Butero of the United Mine Workers of America returns to Lathrop with a presentation of the history of Ludlow and the coal miners.
Do something just for fun on Saturday, July 15, 1 p.m. Come to the Martin’s Lake Beach and Picnic area make a Wildlife Journal, then take a walk along the Cuerno Verde Trail and start documenting what you see.
Sunday, July 16 at 9:30 a.m. come on a nature scavenger hunt along the Cuerno Verde Trail.
Tuesday, July 18,  6 p.m. bring your dogs, meet at the park Amphitheater for a hike with Trisha along the Hogback Trail.
Remember as always, park passes are required.

Masks at LVSA

LA VETA— The La Veta School of the Arts is pleased to announce that Vashti Thomas-Wachterman and Rafe Schneider will teach MASKS for students 6 and older (younger, with adult supervision). Vashti and Rafe will guide students in making a fun, wearable mask by assembling pieces of cardboard, colored paper, markers, paint, and more. The goal is to transform your face into a beautiful, surprisingly original creation. Join us on Friday, July 14, 1 – 3 p.m. All FFF classes take place at LVSA, on Ryus, across from Town Park in La Veta. More information and registration is available at thelvsa.org, or by calling 719.742.3421. Cost is $10 per class, per child; early registration reduces the fee to $5.

SPLD Presents Flicks

WALSENBURG— Friday, July 14, 1:30 p.m.  This month’s movie is the original Independence Day, starring Will Smith, Jeff Goldblum, Randy Quaid and Bill Pullman.  A July invasion from space!  Fighting superior technology, mankind’s best weapon is the will to survive.  FREE popcorn, join us at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg!

Art Planter Box and Walking Tour Ribbon Cutting

WALSENBURG— A ribbon cutting ceremony with Museum of Friends/MoF, Redline Art in Society’s grant manager Lares Feliciano, the City of Walsenburg and Walsenburg Downtown Revitalization to celebrate the new Art Planter Boxes and Walking Tour! Friday, July 14, 4:30 p.m. Starting at Museum of Friends/MoF and followed by a toast at the Crafty Canary!

Fox Rocks the Block

WALSENBURG— Miguel Espinoza will be playing inside the Fox Theatre in Walsenburg on Friday, July 14, 7 p.m. Firm roots in flamenco, classical, and jazz are woven through with North African rhythms, Celtic whimsy, and Brazilian expressions for a transformative, vibrant, and deeply emotive sound.

Sand Painting at LVSA

LA VETA— This class is an exploration of the symbolism, balance, harmony and symmetry used to create the traditional sand paintings of many cultures.  Participants will gain a better understanding of the cultural values portrayed and how sand paintings have helped sand artists find balance in their own lives.  Class fee is $150 and will be held Saturday, July 15 and Sunday July 16.  This class is taught by Sharona Whitley who is an avid student of world cultures that use sand painting to express their values and traditions.  Class costs $150 with a lab fee of $15.  Call 719-742-3421 or e-mail LVArtSchool@yahoo.com for more information or to register online, go to www.theLVSA.org.

Edible, medicinal, & useful plants  

HUERFANO— Saturday, July 15, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. On this half day hike, learn all about how to find, ID, and use wild plants for everything from food, to medicines, tools, and more. Dangerous and poisonous plants are also discussed. $25 per person. Locations vary through out the Spanish Peaks Country. Limited to 10 adult students. Presented by Naturalist, Bob Kennemer and the Spanish Peaks Outdoor Center. Register at least 24 hours in advance for all field sessions by emailing Bob at: bobkennemer@gmail.com.

Farm Bureau rural living program

WALSENBURG— Are you new to the area or contemplating a move here in the future? This an opportunity to learn about things to make your transition to the community easier. Huerfano County Assessors office and Huerfano County Farm Bureau are sponsoring a “Rural Living in Huerfano County” program.  It will take place on Saturday, July 15, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.  at the Huerfano County Community Center in Walsenburg.  Doors open with refreshments at 9 a.m. and speakers start at 10 a.m.  Speakers will be County officials such as assessor, treasurer, building and code enforcement, County Commission, and sheriff.  Other speakers will be from Spanish Peaks Health Center, Colorado Extension Service, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Habitat Partnership Program and the brand inspector who will also talk about fence law.  No charge and lunch will be provided.

Ladies Tea & Luncheon

CUCHARA— Ladies Tea & Luncheon will feature Nancy Orman, #1 Best Selling Author of her book called ‘Stronger Than I Thought’.  If you’ve ever had a broken heart, fears of the unknown, or been so tired you could not take one more step you will want to hear her story. Nancy resides in the North Texas Panhandle with her husband, Tommy. She has 3 children, 2 grand daughters and lots of grand pets. The Tea & Luncheon will be held Saturday, July 15, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Cuchara Christian Fellowship Church, 18721 Hwy 12, Cuchara (at Panadero Ave; entrance to ski area).

A Midsummer Murder Mystery

WALSENBURG— Do you love a good whodunnit?  Join us on Saturday, July 15,  3 p.m. at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg as we present an interactive murder mystery that you can help solve!  The mystery is set in present-day England in the village of Badger’s Drift.  The Library there has acquired an 8th-century Illuminated Manuscript and is having a gala to unveil it to the community.  What could go wrong?  Everything!  Snacks, drinks, and pen and paper are provided as you mingle with guests and characters while you eavesdrop on conversations to deduce whodunnit!  Don’t miss the fun!

Willam Federer at Cuchara Christian Fellowship

CUCHARA— Willam Federer is a nationally known speaker, best-selling author, and president of Amerisearch, Inc., a publishing company dedicated to researching America’s noble heritage. Please join us at Cuchara Christian Fellowship at 18721 Hwy 12, Cuchara (at Panadero Ave; ski area entrance) on Sunday, July 16, 10 a.m. to hear this dynamic speaker.

Little Flamingo Story Time

WALSENBURG— Every Monday 10:30 – 11 a.m. at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg Mrs. Flamingo will be featuring books, songs, felt storyboard, puppets and more!  Recommended ages 0-6yrs.

Water Conservancy Dist. meeting

WALSENBURG— The monthly board meeting of the Huerfano County Water Conservancy District will be held in person at the Walsenburg Housing Authority activity room, 220 Russell St, Walsenburg, on Monday, July 17, 6 p.m. The draft agenda for the meeting will be available on the district’s website: www.hcwcd.net .

Free legal self help

WALSENBURG— Volunteer attorneys will assist one-on-one , via a computer link at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg on Tuesday, July 11, 2 – 5 p.m. The clinic is free and open to all area residents. Please contact the Spanish Peaks Library at 719-738-2774 to be added to the sign up sheet.

Townhall meeting

WALSENBURG— State Representative Ty Winter will be at Heritage Park in Walsenburg on Monday, July 17, 6 p.m. Senator Rod Pelton, Huerfano County Commissioners Karl Sporleder and John Galusha will also be there.

SPLD Presents a Bubble Party

WALSENBURG— Tuesday, July 18, 1 p.m. join Mrs. Flaming on the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg lawn.  We’ll have multiple wand stations, ice pops and beverages.

Historic La Veta Cemetery tours

LA VETA— Join historian Nancy Christofferson for Historic La Veta Cemetery Tours on Tuesday, July 18th and Tuesday July 25th, 1 – 3 p.m. This is free and open to the public.  Sponsored by Francisco Fort Museum,
Meet at 300 E Grand St, La Veta, CO 81055, bring water, put on sunscreen, and wear a hat! Call 719-742-5501 or email director@franciscofort.org for more information.

Learn About Owls with LVPL

LA VETA— Stacey Koury will be joining us at La Veta Public Library summer reading program to talk about owls and dissect owl pellets. You can also make your own mini owl painting. Wednesday, July 19 at 10 a.m. For more info contact stephanie@lvpl.org or 719-
742-3572.

Magic Moving Journal art class

WALSENBURG— Wednesday, July 19, 2 p.m.  Come make an interactive journal with moveable part and hidden pockets as part of our adult summer reading Program at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg.  Part collage, part scrapbooking, part journaling!

Eagles school supply drive

WALSENBURG— The Walsenburg Eagles #1187 will be having a fundraiser for school supplies on Wednesday, July 19, from 5 – 7 p.m .at the Eagles Hall, 614 Main St in Walsenburg.  Dinner will be served at the hall, $10 per person, and will include a pork chop, mashed potatoes, green beans, green chili, and a dessert.  Please bring a new school supply item for donation.  We thank you for your participation!
SPLD presents trivia

WALSENBURG— Join our local Librian at the 2nd Street Bar and Grill located at the Walsenburg Golf Course. Trivia will be held Wednesday, July 19, 6 p.m. and is free to play and you don’t need a parks pass to get to the golf course.

Walsenburg seeks community input on future law enforcement  

WALSENBURG— Plan to attend one of a series of metings being held Thursday July 20 to determine how the City of Walsenburg should handle law enforcement in the future.  The sessions will be held 8:30-9:30 a.m., 10-11 a.m., and 5-6 p.m., July 20, in the city council chambers, 525 S. Albert Ave.
Those interested in participating are encouraged to register on the City of Walsenburg website, https://cityofwalsenburg.colorado.gov/, or Facebook page, or by calling Deputy City Clerk Rick Colander at 719-695-1031.

SPLD Presents “Chicana Activists of Colorado”

WALSENBURG— Join the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg for “Chicana Activists of Colorado” Author Book Talk Thursday, July 20, 2 p.m.  Join us in welcoming Pueblo author Deborah Martinez as she discusses her book about the amazing history of Chicana women in Colorado.  Abuelas that RSVP to Sandy J. at 719 989-8438 will receive a free copy of the book.  Everyone in the community is invited to attend.

Acrylic Painting Workshop

LA VETA— Complete two projects during this one day workshop at the SPACe Gallery in La Veta, Friday, July 21, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. and a second workshop on Saturday, July 29th. Learn about painting with acrylics, all materials provided, great for beginners. Instructed by Coni Grant, noted workshop teacher from Alamosa. $70 fee plus $20 for materials. Contact SPACe at 719 742-3074 for information or email spanishpeaksarts@gmail.com.

Charcoal and Pastels at LVSA

LA VETA— The La Veta School of the Arts is pleased to offer Charcoal and Pastels with instructor Vashti Thomas-Wachterman. Charcoal and Pastels takes place at LVSA for students 6 and older (younger, with adult supervision) LVSA is on Ryus Ave. across from town park in La Veta on Friday, July 21, 1 – 3 p.m. More information and registration can be done at www.thelvsa.org, or by calling 719.742.3421. Cost is $10 per class, per child; early registration reduces the fee to $5.

Fox Rock’s the Block

WALSENBURG— Fox Theatre presents and intimate evening with Jeffe the G.M.C. featuring Elimence, Stoney Berts, TMC! and Mastermind on Friday, July 21, 7 p.m. at Miners Plaza in Walsenburg.

SPLD Presents Gardening 101

WALSENBURG— Sunday, July 23, 1 p.m.  This month we’ll be playing with Guerilla Gardening by making seed balls to toss in unexpected places while learning the best ways to make our world full of Colorado wildflowers. Join the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg for their monthly Gardening 101 class.

24th Annual Sacred Sundance

GARDNER — The Aztlan Native American Community Church is hosting the 24th annual Sacred Sundance celebration this year from July 23-30, 2023.  Purification is from July 23-26, Tree Day is July 26, and Sundance proper is July 27-30. GPS 7100 County Road 620 Gardner, CO 81040.  Meals are served each day and donations are appreciated.  No drugs, no dogs, no weapons, no bad vibes, no alcohol.  This is a sacred ceremony, no partying.  Come to Sundance with prayer in your heart.

Methodist Peach Pre-Order

LA VETA— There is still time to order your supply of delicious, #1 Palisade peaches through La Veta United Methodist Church. We are currently receiving orders and your order will be ready for pickup on Sunday, August 27, between 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Order forms are available throughout town—including blank forms at the door of La Veta United Methodist Church on the corner of Main and Virginia. When filling out your form, please make sure to include your name, phone and email address so we may send you a reminder for pickup. All orders must be accompanied by cash or check. Should you have any questions, visit our website at www.lavetaumc.org.

SCCY Palisade peach fundraiser

WALSENBURG— SCCY is pleased to announce the return of our Palisade Peach Fundraiser. The peaches will be at 513 Main st. in Walsenburg on Wednesday, August 30th.  You can place orders by calling Myra at 719-989-7813 or Cathy 719-989-0122.  This fundraiser helps support summer programming for the youth who attend SCCY.  As always, we thank the community for your continued support of SCCY and helping the youth of our community realize their full potential.  10 lbs box is $29 and $18 is $39.

20th annual Stonewall Century Ride

HUERFANO— Registration for the 20th Annual Stonewall Century Ride is now open. We look forward to seeing you August 12, 2023 for our 20th anniversary! To register please visit www.Active.com.

LAS ANIMAS

American Legion Mixer

TRINIDAD— This Friday, July 14 at 5:30 p.m., the American Legion and their families are having a mixer with the Elks at the Elks Lodge off Maple Ave in Trinidad. At this event, the big surprise is one of our local outfitters (a 39,000 acre ranch) is donating a trophy bull elk hunt to a worthy local veteran who was wounded supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. This young man’s family will be in attendance, and it’s going to be an awesome surprise!

Farmer’s Market in Trinidad

TRINIDAD— The Farmer’s Market returns this summer with fresh produce, and other delicious foods, arts, crafts, music and more at Central Park every Saturday morning from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Don’t miss it!  July 1st through Oct. 12!

Home,wildfire mitigation

BON CARBO— The Bon Carbo Fire Hall, 1459 CR 57.7 will be hosting a home and wildlife mitigation workshop on Saturday, July 15, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Trinidad History Museum events

TRINIDAD— Free family friendly activities at the Trinidad History Museum on Saturday, July 15, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. We’ll be painting with yucca as paint brushes and paints from produce. Hands-on experiences and games for toddlers, children, teens and adults.

Legacies and Legends of Trinidad book signing event

TRINIDAD— Attention history buffs!  Please plan to attend a book signing on Saturday, July 15 from 11 a.m. to noon at the Carnegie Library in Trinidad of  Segundo born Phillip Arnold Vigil’s  latest book, “Legacies and Legends, Trinidad, Colorado, 1860 – 1960”.
The book was released in February, and is described as the voice for legacies and legendary stories about the unforgettable people and events which shaped the history of Trinidad, including early founders like Felipe Baca and Frank Bloom, Michel Beshoar, Casimiro Barela, and José Agapito Vigil; well known, and not as well known, early Wild West legends like madam Mae Phelps and lawmen Lewis Kreegar  and Bat Masterton.  The book also discusses the development of Trinidad into the early 20th century by highlighting the impact of coal mining, labor activists, and residents who attained national stature, plus the local activities of the Ku Klux Klan.
If you are unable to make it to the book signing, you may also order the book for $24, plus 46 for shipping and handling by sending a check to Phillip A. Vigil, 2647 S. Johnson Circle, Lakewood, CO 80227.  For more info, contact him at pmvigil63@yahoo.com

Trinidad Art Festival

TRINIDAD— Get artsy at the new Trinidad Art Festival at Sister Blandina’s Park in Trinidad on Saturday, July 15 and Sunday July 16.  Artists from across the country, across the state, and across the city will be invited to participate and support the new wave of art culture in Trinidad.

Benefit Dinner for Tom Romero

TRINIDAD— Tom Romero’s home in Trinidad recently burned, causing extensive damage. Tom is a U.S. Army Vet and has worked for Trinidad School District for 17 years. Let’s help give back to someone who has given so much to his community. Join us at Fort Wootton Veterans Memorial Square on Saturday, July 15, 6 – 8 p.m. for a fundraising dinner. The cost per person is $15 and dinner will be included. There will also be baked goods for sale and a silent auction. All money raised will go towards helping Tom rebuild.

Finding Your Way:  Trail Talk in Trinidad

TRINIDAD— Join Trinidad Trails Alliance founder Jenn Green in a hands-on, “wayfinding” presentation about trail history in our region, sustainable trail-building, and trail stewardship.  No experience necessary, but you will leave with some know-how! Jenn will include facts about the existing trails their locations and level of difficulty. Join the fun On Saturday, July 15, 7 p.m. at the Trinidad Lake State Park Ampitheater.

Certified Guest Service Gold Class

TRINIDAD— Join Colorado Hotel and Lodging Association for their free class on Monday, July 17, 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. and get certified in Guest Service Gold. This is a general overview of the abundant opportunities available within the hospitality and tourism industry. This class will be held at Space to Create, 200, West Main Street in Trinidad. Please register by 6 p.m. on Thursday, July 13 by visiting www.chla.com

Business showcase

TRINIDAD— On Wednesday, July 19, 12 – 1:30 p.m. the Trinidad – Las Animas County Chamber of Commerce will have their monthly business showcase.  This months business showcase will be hosted by Day’s in/Sunset Grill, 900 West Adams Street in Trinidad. A Business Showcase features a special speaker and/or presentation, important community announcements, and great opportunities to forge valuable connections in the Trinidad – Las Animas County business community.

Ranching for profit workshop

TRINIDAD— This two-day workshop will explore how adaptable and managed grazing is key to improving profit in the ranching business. Learn how to improve rangeland health and productivity and create a profitable business that can stay in the family for generations. The workshop will be held on Thursday, July 20 and Friday, July 21, 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. at 1309 Beshoar Ave, Trinidad. A light breakfast and lunch will be provided both days. To register please call 719-846-3681 and for more information visit www.birdconservancy.org

Wild and Scenic Film Festival

TRINIDAD— Check out the Purgatoire Watershed Community Wild and Scenic Film Festival on Saturday, July 22, 7 p.m. at Main Street Live, Join us for an exciting night of outdoor & community-oriented short films to expand your mind and inspire your next adventure! With a host of community partners, we’ll be showing a series of inspiring short films from around the world designed to engage and support ALL community members in getting outdoors for new adventures, as well as provide some interesting food for thought for next steps around community collaboration and expanding outdoor experiences in our watershed! This is a FREE event and all are welcome!

Las Animas County Fair

TRINIDAD— The Country Pride County Wide themed county fair will be held Tuesday, July 25 – Saturday, July 29th at the Las Animas County Fairgrounds in Trinidad. For a full list of events visit Las Animas County Fair on Facebook.

PACT ACT Town Hall

TRINIDAD— On Wednesday, July 26, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. there will be a presentation about the new PACT ACT law that expands VA benefits and health to Vietnam, Gulf and Iraq/Afghanistan War veterans suffering from exposure to Agent Orange burn pits and other toxic substances while in service. Presented by NM VA Health Care System, Denver and Cheyenne Veterans Affairs Regional Offices and Sponsored by State of Colorado Division of Veterans Affairs and My. Carmel Wellness Center. This will be held at Mt. Carmel, 911 Robinson Ave, Trinidad. For more information please call Raymond Odum, Las Animas VSO 719-845-2589

COLFAX

Farmers Market in Cimarron

CIMARRON— Come one, come all! The Cimarron Chamber is hosting the summer’s Farmers Market at the Village Park held on Saturdays now through Labor day from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. If you are interested in becoming a vendor please call 575-376-2417 or email cimarronnm@gmail.com

Angel Fire Farmers Market

ANGEL FIRE— Come enjoy, shopping al fresco at the Angel Fire Resort Farmers Market. Every Sunday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. until September 3. The market will bring you fresh produce, art and live music. Join the fun while shopping locally at Frontier Park, Mountain View BLVD, Angel Fire.

Night Sky Viewing

CAPULIN— Join us for an exceptional Dark Sky experience on Saturday, July 15, 8:30 p.m. Telescopes are provided by us, and the dark northeastern New Mexico skies by nature. You will see planets, galaxies, nebula, and other amazing sights all with your own eyes.
Capulin Volcano is at a higher altitude of over 6,000 feet. Nights can get chilly even in summer. A jacket, long pants, and closed toe shoes are recommended to attend a Dark Sky program. No reservations are needed. Dark Sky programs may be changed or cancelled due to weather.

Springer youth play day

SPRINGER— Youth are invited to come play at the Colfax County Fairgrounds in Springer on Saturday, July 15, entries open at 1 p.m. and the events start at 2 p.m. $5 per event or $50 for the annual family membership. Light concession will be available for purchase.

Live music at Ponil Campground

CIMARRON—Music night at the Ponil Campground on Saturday, July 15, 6 p.m. There will also be a potluck, bring a dish to share. Come enjoy great live music, good food and even better company.

Lady Ram’s Burrito fundraiser

CIMARRON— Kathleen’s Burrito Banquet is having a fundraiser for the Lady Ram’s Volleyball Team on Sunday, July 16, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. All money raised will be given to the Lady Rams to go to Volleyball Camo. Bring you Cimarron spirit and join in the fun while enjoying delicious food.

Run to Raton

RATON— Friday, July 21 and Saturday July 22, come to downtown Raton and for their annual Car and Bike Show plus so much more! Live music, food, vendors and even a beard and mustache competition. For more information visit the Run to Raton facebook page.

Colfax County Fair

SPRINGER— “Gettin’ Groovy” is this year’s theme for the Annual Colfax County Fair being held Monday, July 24 – Sunday, July 30. Admission is $5 and children under 5 are free. For more information check out Colfax county Fair on Facebook.

Resume and Skill building workshop

RATON— Learn to create a compelling resume, do’s and dont’s, formatting best practices and much more at the Center for Community Innovation, 130 Park Ave, Raton. This free workshops start on Tuesday, July 25. Please contact Bianca Patterson at 575-791-5156 to get registrered.

Upcoming Events for July 6, 2023

HUERFANO

SPLD Summer Reading Program
 
WALSENBURG— Beginning in July the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg will have a Summer Reading Program for adults and kids.  Sign up at the Library or email your info to sharonaspld@gmail.com.  Free events for all ages including kid’s story time and adult book club.  Prizes awarded for attendance and books read.

Head Start now enrolling

WALSENBURG— South Central Colorado Head Start is now enrolling Pre-school children 3 – 5 years old. Call now to apply 719-420-0125.

Mission Wolf & Bishops Castle with Cuchara Rec

CUCHARA— Friday, July 8,   8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Cuchara Rec is hosting a day trip for the whole family! Bring a lunch and money for donations to the sites. Come prepared to be in your car for some time to get to our locations. We will stop for picnics and scenery! You may choose to only attend part of the day if you wish. Bishop’s Castle is a fun trip that is not too far from Cuchara. It is a huge castle that is being built by one man.
Mission Wolf is a remote wolf sanctuary near Westcliffe, Colorado with up to 40 wolves and wolf-dog crosses. Visit and not only see the wolves up close but have an opportunity to touch them as well.

Weekend activities at Lathrop State Park

WALSENBURG—  On Friday July 7, 10 a.m. bring a sketchpad, pencil, pen, or preferred drawing tools and come explore and sketch along the Wetlands Walk at Lathrop State Park. Meet at the Wetlands Walk Parking Area.
On Friday July 7, 1 p.m. meet at the Martin’s Lake Beach and Picnic area and make a Wildlife Journal, then take a walk along the Cuerno Verde Trail and start
documenting what you see.
On Saturday, July 8, 1 p.m. find out why different animals look the way they do. Samantha will discuss and compare the anatomy of different animal’s skulls. All ages are welcome to join, meet in the Visitor Center.
Then on the evening of Saturday, July 8, 7 p.m.  there will be ghosts and ghouls around a campfire. Bring your family for Smore’s and Ghost Stories to the park amphitheater.
On Sunday, July 9 at 10 a.m. Samantha will lead the kids on a short treasure hunt hike along the Hogback Trail. Everyone will meet at the Amphitheater.
Tuesday, July 11, 6 p.m. bring your dogs for a walk with Trisha along the Cuerno Verde Trail. Meet at the visitor center with you leashed dogs.
Remember, park passes are required for all vehicles.

Creating with Clay at LVSA

LA VETA— The La Veta School of the Arts is pleased to announce that Ethan Meyler will teach Creating With Clay on Friday, July 7, 1 – 3 p.m.  for students 6 and older. In this popular class, Ethen will guide students in developing ways of shaping, molding, and building with clay. The type of clay provided does not need to be fired — that’s the beauty of it. It is also reusable forever! All FFF classes take place at LVSA, on Ryus, across from Town Park in La Veta. More information and registration is available at thelvsa.org, or by calling 719-742-3421. Cost is $10 per class, per child; early registration reduces the fee to $5.

La Veta’s Friday Art Walk

LA VETA—   Join us for art, food and fun this Friday at La Veta’s First Friday Art Walks, Friday, July 7, 4:30 – 7 p.m. The walks continue throughout the summer on August 4 and September 1. Stroll solo, or gather souls that love pondering inspiring art and meeting artists. Sponsored by the La Veta Creative District and Colorado Creative Industries. For more information, Info@LaVetaCreativeDistrict.org & LaVetaCreativeDistrict.org.

Community Dinner

GARDNER— This Friday, July 7, 6 p.m. the Raymond Aguirre Community Center Advisory Board is hosting a Gardner Community Dinner. The goal is to celebrate the end of Main Street Project planning efforts and provide an opportunity to build connections and answer any questions the community may have about the project.

Rock the Block at the Fox Theatre

WALSENBURG— TrinAcoustic, a 9 piece acoustic band covering Tool songs will be at the Fox Theatre in Walsenburg on Friday, July 7, 8 p.m.

Expressionist Pastels class  at LVSA

LA VETA— Tony Ortega invites students to open new ways of thinking about pastel drawing techniques and subjects the weekend on Saturday July, 8 and Sunday, July 9.  This workshop will explore composition, color theory, organizing a pastel palette, mark making and understanding value. Students will merge abstraction, simplification and realism into their drawings.  Tony is currently a professor for Regis University and has received the Governor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts in 1999.  His work can be found in collections of Denver Art Museum, Los Angeles County Museum among many others.  $150.00.  Call 719-742-3421, LVartschool@yahoo.com  or www.theLVSA.org.

Patricia Prijatel’s Book Discussion on Burn Scars: A Memoir of the Land and Its Loss

WALSENBURG— The Museum of Friends is pleased to welcome renowned author Patricia Prijatel for a public program on Saturday, July 8, at 2 p.m.  Please join us as at MoF, 600 Main St, as we learn about Ms. Prijatel’s journey to recovery as she chronicles the aftermath of the fire in Burn Scars: A Memoir of the Land and Its Loss, having experienced the 2013 East Peak fire that left her family and friends devastated. There will be time for questions following the program and an opportunity to purchase a signed copy of Burn Scars: A Memoir of the Land and Its Loss.

Foraging in Spanish Peaks Country

LA VETA – Local naturalist and wild useful plant expert, Bob Kennemer, will present a 90 minute program on how to be an ethical forager of edible, medicinal, and useful wild plants. Dangerous and deadly poisonous plants will be shown and reviewed. Conversely, we will sample edible wild flowers. (Most are edible!) Needed tools, fieldguides, and equipment will be displayed. Historic and folk uses of plants included. Also, a limited discussion on edible mushrooms. Sample plants and slides will be shown. Bob makes sure his programs are both educational and entertaining. He will also have free handouts. Sunday, July 9, 2 p.m. at the La Veta Public Library. The cost is $10 per person.

Youth Art Workshop

LA VETA— The annual Youth Art Workshop, sponsored by the Spanish Peaks Arts Council in La Veta, will be Monday, July 10- Friday, July 14, 9 am – Noon. The workshop is for young people ages 8 – 16 and is only $35 for four projects, all materials provided. This year’s theme is “Art Around the World” featuring Native American portraits, Chinese Mandalas, Japanese Sumi-e, and African designs. Call 719 742-3074 to register or email spanishpeaksarts@gmail.com

SPLD Presents Little Flamingo Story Time

WALSENBURG— Every Monday 10:30 – 11 a.m. at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg Mrs. Flamingo will be featuring books, songs, felt storyboard, puppets and more!  Recommended ages 0-6yrs.

Laughing As Exercise: Monday Evenings All Summer Long

LA VETA— Join us to experience Laughing As Exercise to support mental, emotional and physical health. Taking care of ourselves so that we are healthier interacting with the world has never been so joyful! Laughing as exercise can also support a deeper sense of wellbeing for those experiencing chronic illness. Join the fun Every Monday, 5 – 5:30 p.m. throughout the summer at the La Veta Town Park along West Ryus, near Main St. For more information, please contact Laura “Joy” Bedford at 630-864-8992 or TrustingOurInnerLight@gmail.com.

Free legal self help

WALSENBURG— Volunteer attorneys will assist one-on-one , via a computer link at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg on Tuesday, July 11, 2 – 5 p.m. The clinic is free and open to all area residents. Please contact the Spanish Peaks Library at 719-738-2774 to be added to the sign up sheet.

American Legion Post 16 Meeting

WALSENBURG— The Brian T. Chiquette Post 16 of The American Legion will have their monthly meeting  on Wednesday, July 12, 6 p.m. at the Walsenburg Housing Authority Office, 220 Russell Ave. in Walsenburg. The Veterans Trust Fund (Veterans helping Veterans) is now closed, but there are other ways possible to assist Veterans. All Veterans are invited and encouraged to attend the meeting. We will be discussing future activities for the Post. If you have any questions, please call Dave Rogers 719-738-9965

Pie Baking Competition and fundraiser

LA VETA— Sign up now for the Cuchara/La Veta Public Library Pie Baking Competition and FUNdraiser!
We are excited to have a Pie Baking Competition and FUNdraiser for the Cuchara/La Veta Public Library!
Bake TWO of the same pie, one for the contest, one for the FUNdraiser! Sign up now for the competition by contacting Peggy at peggy@lvpl.org or text 719-989-1531 Categories: Best Fruit, Best Cream/Chiffon/Meringue, Best Other Sweet, Best Savory, Best Crust.  Event will be held on Thursday, July 13 from 5 – 7 p.m. at Cuchara Community Center, 16500 State Hwy 12.

Weekly wildflower & weed walks

LA VETA—  Learn how to ID what is what and their uses. Wildflowers, along with edible, medicinal, useful, and poisonous wild plants are popping! Gentle one hour nature walks led every Wednesday, from 5 to 6 p.m. by local interpretive naturalist Bob Kennemer. Cost $5 per person. Class size limited to 10. Current schedule: Cuchara Wednesday, July 12. Handouts included. Pre Registration required 24 hours in advance to learn locations and more. Email Bob at: bobkennemer@gmail.com

Sunset and Stars – Vista Point Hike

CUCHARA— We’ll meet at the Cuchara Community Center on Thursday, July 13,  7 p.m. to drive to Cordova Pass and hike about 3/4 of a mile to a grand overview of our Cuchara valley and beyond. We have time to meet new friends, enjoy a picnic and check out a wonderful sunset. As the sky grows dark, stars begin to pop out. A quick and simple astronomy lesson will be given so that you might be able to take your knowledge home with you. We walk back to the Cordova Pass parking lot with the help of flashlights. A  unique experience to say the least! Bring food, drinks, comfortable shoes, flashlights, and warm clothes!

Masks at LVSA

LA VETA— The La Veta School of the Arts is pleased to announce that Vashti Thomas-Wachterman and Rafe Schneider will teach MASKS for students 6 and older (younger, with adult supervision). Vashti and Rafe will guide students in making a fun, wearable mask by assembling pieces of cardboard, colored paper, markers, paint, and more. The goal is to transform your face into a beautiful, surprisingly original creation. Join us on Friday, July 14, 1 – 3 p.m. All FFF classes take place at LVSA, on Ryus, across from Town Park in La Veta. More information and registration is available at thelvsa.org, or by calling 719.742.3421. Cost is $10 per class, per child; early registration reduces the fee to $5.

Sand Painting at LVSA

LA VETA— This class is an exploration of the symbolism, balance, harmony and symmetry used to create the traditional sand paintings of many cultures.  Participants will gain a better understanding of the cultural values portrayed and how sand paintings have helped sand artists find balance in their own lives.  Class fee is $150 and will be held Saturday, July 15 and Sunday July 16.  This class is taught by Sharona Whitley who is an avid student of world cultures that use sand painting to express their values and traditions.  Class costs $150 with a lab fee of $15.  Call 719-742-3421 or e-mail LVArtSchool@yahoo.com for more information or to register online, go to www.theLVSA.org.

Farm Bureau rural living program

WALSENBURG— Are you new to the area or contemplating a move here in the future? This an opportunity to learn about things to make your transition to the community easier. Huerfano County Assessors office and Huerfano County Farm Bureau are sponsoring a “Rural Living in Huerfano County” program.  It will take place on Saturday, July 15, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.  at the Huerfano County Community Center in Walsenburg.  Doors open with refreshments at 9 a.m. and speakers start at 10 a.m.  Speakers will be County officials such as assessor, treasurer, building and code enforcement, County Commission, and sheriff.  Other speakers will be from Spanish Peaks Health Center, Colorado Extension Service, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Habitat Partnership Program and the brand inspector who will also talk about fence law.  There is no charge and lunch will be provided.

SPLD Presents A Midsummer Murder Mystery

WALSENBURG— Do you love a good whodunnit?  Join us on Saturday, July 15,  3 p.m. at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg as we present an interactive murder mystery that you can help solve!  The mystery is set in present-day England in the village of Badger’s Drift.  The Library there has acquired an 8th-century Illuminated Manuscript and is having a gala to unveil it to the community.  What could go wrong?  Everything!  Snacks, drinks, and pen and paper are provided as you mingle with guests and characters while you eavesdrop on conversations to deduce whodunnit!  Don’t miss the fun!

SPLD presents trivia

WALSENBURG— Join our local Librian at the 2nd Street Bar and Grill located at the Walsenburg Golf Course. Trivia will be held Wednesday, July 19, 6 p.m. and is free to play and you don’t need a parks pass to get to the golf course.

Acrylic Painting Workshop

LA VETA— Complete two projects during this one day workshop at the SPACe Gallery in La Veta, Friday, July 21, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Learn about painting with acrylics, all materials provided, great for beginners. Instructed by Coni Grant, noted workshop teacher from Alamosa. $70 fee plus $20 for materials. Contact SPACe at 719 742-3074 for information or email spanishpeaksarts@gmail.com.

United Methodist Church Peach Pre-Order

LA VETA— There is still time to order your supply of delicious, #1 Palisade peaches through La Veta United Methodist Church. We are currently receiving orders and your order will be ready for pickup on Sunday, August 27, between 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Order forms are available throughout town—including blank forms at the door of La Veta United Methodist Church on the corner of Main and Virginia. When filling out your form, please make sure to include your name, phone and email address so we may send you a reminder for pickup. All orders must be accompanied by cash or check. Should you have any questions, visit our website at www.lavetaumc.org.

SCCY Palisade Peach Fundraiser

WALSENBURG— SCCY is pleased to announce the return of our Palisade Peach Fundraiser. The peaches will be at 513 Main st. in Walsenburg on Wednesday, August 30th.  You can place orders by calling Myra at 719-989-7813 or Cathy 719-989-0122.  You can also message us or order on Facebook.  This fundraiser helps support summer programming for the youth who attend SCCY.  As always, we thank the community for your continued support of SCCY and helping the youth of our community realize their full potential.

LAS ANIMAS

Senior Days at Books & More

TRINIDAD— It’s Senior Days at Books & More again! Most Items will be 50% on Friday, July 7, and Saturday, July 8.  Store hours for Friday are 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and Saturday are 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. 719-846-8522.

Farmer’s Market in Trinidad

TRINIDAD— The Farmer’s Market returns this summer with fresh produce, and other delicious foods, arts, crafts, music and more at Central Park every Saturday morning from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Don’t miss it!  July 1st through Oct. 12!

Free Yoga in the park

TRINIDAD— Connect to nature and our beautiful community with Yoga at Cimino Park, every Saturday, 9 – 10 a.m. all summer long. Mats, blocks, blankets and straps will be provided. Class is free and a great way to bring in positive energy. Start you weekend with healthy intention and community connection.

Stars on Carpios Ridge, A Star Party

TRINIDAD— Carpios Ridge is a great dark sky location. Join Dr. Robert Philbin, Astronomy and Physics Professor, from Trinidad State College, at the amphitheater at Trinidad Lake State Park for an evening of night sky viewing on Saturday, July 8, 8 p.m. We’ll look for meteors, planets, and other galactic wonders. This live astronomy program will feature Planets , the summer constellations Scorpius and Sagittarius and the asterism called Summer Triangle.

Women of Las Animas County

TRINIDAD— Whether you are new to the area, or have lived in Las Animas County for years, we invite you to attend a ladies night out networking group and fashion show on Friday, July 7, from 4:30 on at the Space to Create commons.
Connect with other women to learn about local resources, make new friends, and explore opportunities.

First Friday Art Walk

TRINIDAD— The First Friday art walk will be held this Friday, July 7 starting at 5 p.m. Take a stroll along Main Street and Commercial Street and enjoy art, music and food. For more information please contact Rich Alford at 719-946-1076.

PALS Low Cost Male Cat Neuter Event

TRINIDAD— PALS, Pet Assistance League, in Trinidad, is sponsoring a low-cost neuter clinic, for male cats only, on Saturday, July 8.  Pre-registration is required.  To book an appointment stop by their thrift store, 500 W. Main street in Trinidad or call 719-680-0525. Space is limited. PALS recently completed a low cost Spay & Neuter event that included vaccinations and Rabie shots for both domestic and feral cats. They plan to have more of these events in the future for both cats & dogs. For more information of upcoming events and store specials, follow them on facebook, PALS- Pet Assistance League Store, and visit their thrift store, 500 W. Main street in Trinidad, 719-680-0525.

Trinidad Trails Alliance Trail Work Day

TRINIDAD—  Trinidad Trails Alliance will meet at Noah’s Ark, 224 N Chestnut St on Saturday, July 8, 10 a.m. to begin a new path for two and four-leggeds connecting Main St to the Riverwalk! All levels of experience welcome. Tools and snacks provided, BYO water, gloves and sunscreen. Tailgater to follow. Additional workdays TBD throughout the summer. For more info, contact Jenn Green 719-859-0379. trinidadtrailsalliance@gmail.com

Open Mic for all Literary Souls

TRINIDAD—The series is hosted by the Creative District on the Second Saturday of the month at The Commons at Space to Create, 218 West Main St.
The evening begins with a featured writer; the microphone then opens to all who would like to share their creative literary efforts. This event is free and open to the public. Join us Saturday, July 8 at 7 p.m. and every second Saturday.

Pizza fundraiser for Trinidad Youth Club

TRINIDAD— Order a PhilanthroPIE or a Hawaiian pizza on Monday, July 10th from Sexy Pizza and help raise money for the Trinidad Youth Club. 20% of profits goes directly to TYC that supports our communities youth development.

Bachman & Associates grand opening

TRINIDAD— Bachman and Associates is proud to invite you to their Grand Opening and Ribbing cutting on Monday, July 10, 12:15 p.m. at their new location 159 East Main Street, Trinidad.

Coffee Talk

TRINIDAD— Join the Trinidad – Las Animas Chamber of Commerce for their monthly Coffee Talk on Wednesday, July 12, 8 – 9:15 a.m. at the Sunset Grill in Trinidad. Breakfast and coffee is $5, please bring cash.

Legacies and Legends of Trinidad book signing event

TRINIDAD— Attention history buffs!  Please plan to attend a book signing on Saturday, July 15 from 11 a.m. to noon at the Carnegie Library in Trinidad of  Segundo born Phillip Arnold Vigil’s  latest book, “Legacies and Legends, Trinidad, Colorado, 1860 – 1960”.
The book was released in February, and is described as the voice for legacies and legendary stories about the unforgettable people and events which shaped the history of Trinidad, including early founders like Felipe Baca and Frank Bloom, Michel Beshoar, Casimiro Barela, and José Agapito Vigil; well known, and not as well known, early Wild West legends like madam Mae Phelps and lawmen Lewis Kreegar  and Bat Masterton.  The book also discusses the development of Trinidad into the early 20th century by highlighting the impact of coal mining, labor activists, and residents who attained national stature, plus the local activities of the Ku Klux Klan.
If you are unable to make it to the book signing, you may also order the book for $24, plus 46 for shipping and handling by sending a check to Phillip A. Vigil, 2647 S. Johnson Circle, Lakewood, CO 80227.  For more info, contact him at pmvigil63@yahoo.com

Trinidad Art Festival

TRINIDAD— Join us for the new Trinidad Art Festival at Sister Blandin’s Park in Trinidad on Saturday, July 15 and Sunday July 16.  Artists from across the country, across the state, and across the city will be invited to participate and support the new wave of art culture in Trinidad.

Business Showcase

TRINIDAD— On Wednesday, July 19, 12 – 1:30 p.m. the Trinidad – Las Animas County Chamber of Commerce will have their monthly business showcase.  This months business showcase will be hosted by Day’s in/Sunset Grill, 900 West Adams Street in Trinidad. A Business Showcase features a special speaker and/or presentation, important community announcements, and great opportunities to forge valuable connections in the Trinidad – Las Animas County business community.

Ranching for Profit Workshop

TRINIDAD— This two day workshop will explore how adaptable and managed grazing is key to improving profit in the ranching business. Learn how to improve rangeland health and productivity and create a profitable business that can stay in the family for generations. The workshop will be held on Thursday, July 20 and Friday, July 21, 9:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. at 1309 Beshoar Ave, Trinidad. A light breakfast and lunch will be provided both days. To register please call 719-846-3681 and for more information visit www.birdconservancy.org

COLFAX
   
Farmers Market in Cimarron

CIMARRON— Come one, come all! The Cimarron Chamber is hosting the summer’s Farmers Market at the Village Park held on Saturdays now through Labor day from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. If you are interested in becoming a vendor please call 575-376-2417 or email cimarronnm@gmail.com

Angel Fire Farmers Market

ANGEL FIRE— Come enjoy, shopping al fresco at the Angel Fire Resort Farmers Market. Every Sunday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. until September 3. The market will bring you fresh produce, art and live music. Join the fun while shopping locally at Frontier Park, Mountain View BLVD, Angel Fire.

No Road Blocks car & truck show

SPRINGER—  Join the fun in downtown Springer on Saturday, July 8, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Low riders, motorcycles, trucks and more! There will be live music by the Michael Rascon Band, vendors and fun for the whole family.

Night Sky Viewing

CAPULIN— Join us for an exceptional Dark Sky experience on Saturday, July 8 and July 15, 8:30 p.m. Telescopes are provided by us, and the dark northeastern New Mexico skies by nature. You will see planets, galaxies, nebula, and other amazing sights all with your own eyes.
Capulin Volcano is at a higher altitude of over 6,000 feet. Nights can get chilly even in summer. A jacket, long pants, and closed toe shoes are recommended to attend a Dark Sky program. No reservations are needed. Dark Sky programs may be changed or cancelled due to weather.

Springer youth play day

SPRINGER— Youth are invited to come play at the Colfax County Fairgrounds in Springer on Saturday, July 15, entries open at 1 p.m. and the events start at 2 p.m. $5 per event or $50 for the annual family membership. Light concession will be available for purchase.

Lady Ram’s Burrito fundraiser

CIMARRON— Kathleen’s Burrito Banquet is having a fundraiser for the Lady Ram’s Volleyball Team on Sunday, July 16, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. All money raised will be given to the Lady Rams to go to Volleyball Camo. Bring you Cimarron spirit and join in the fun while enjoying delicious food.

Upcoming Events for June 29, 2023

OUR WORLD

BATTLEMOOR

HUERFANO/LAS ANIMAS— Some years past, with great delight, the wise leaders of the Outlands created a summer festival called Battlemoor, in the cool mountains where all could find rest and friendly competition. Alliances are strengthened, hospitality is joyfully returned, and feasts and revels abound. Battlemoor has become the gathering place for the all the widespread peoples of the region to meet old friends and new, to exhibit valor, and to have fun in a myriad of ways. It’s the Return of Battlemoor at a brand new site. Join us at the foot of the beautiful Spanish Peaks in southern Colorado.
Battlemoor is open now  through Saturday, July 1 at the Sporleder Centennial Ranch, 19530 County Rd 54.2, west of Aguilar. To register, join the Society for Creative Anachronism, or for more information on how to stop by, please visit www.battlemoor.org.

HUERFANO

Welcome back to the John Mall High School Class of 1981  

WALSENBURG— The great class of 1981, along with some of their favorite teachers and sponsors will be in town on Friday, June 30 through Saturday July 1 in Walsenburg.
The weekend starts by meeting at 3:15 Friday in the John Mall High School parking lot for a 3:30 p.m. ‘Thanks For All The Memories’ tour of John Mall High School, which will be torn down next year.
The group will then immediately go next door to see the new high school now being constructed next to John Mall.  It will open next January. You must wear closed toe shoes, as this is an active construction site.
Cocktails and Conversations will be from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday at the Whistle Stop Lofts at 408 Russell St.
On Saturday, there will be bowling from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and the $10 fee includes shoes.
That evening, will be the final activity, a Hoedown BBQ at the Eagles, 614 Main featuring cocktails at 5 p.m., dinner at 6 p.m. and music by DJ Scott King and dancing from 7 p.m. on.   Wear western attire to enter a drawing for a prize.
Thank you to class reunion chair and organizational genius Sandi Montoya-Foster, and to committee mambers Gabby Sanchez, Carolyn Cisneros Fischer,  Donna Romero, and Gretchen Sporleder-Orr.

SPLD Summer Reading Program
 
WALSENBURG— Beginning in July the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg will have a Summer Reading Program for adults and kids.  Sign up at the Library or email your info to sharonaspld@gmail.com.  Free events for all ages including kid’s story time and adult book club.  Prizes awarded for attendance and books read.

Head Start now enrolling

WALSENBURG— South Central Colorado Head Start is now enrolling Pre-school children 3 – 5 years old. Call now to apply 719-420-0125.

Cuchara walking history tour

CUCHARA— Join us on our very popular and always changing Walking History Tour of Cuchara where you will learn some of the earliest history of our beloved Cuchara.  We have updated the tour to include some simple geologic history, Native American information and Land Grant maps. You will see old photos of our area and learn stories of some of our earliest pioneers.
Join us in our walk or ride along in a golf cart on Thursday, June 29, 9 a.m. We’ll meet at the Cuchara Recreation Center.

SPLD presents the All Together Now Picnic
 
WALSENBURG— Thursday, June 29, 1 – 3 p.m.  The Spanish Peaks Library, Huajatolla Heritage Foundation and the Flamingo Book Club are teaming up!  During the picnic at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg, kids can win free books and a stuffed animal reading buddy.  All the kids have to do is read a book with someone at the picnic and they can adopt the stuffed reading buddy and take it home.  The clothed stuffies are provided through HHF’s Arte de Nuestros Abuelos program.  Don’t miss the fun and adopt a reading buddy!

La Veta Village Garage Sale

LA VETA— The La Veta Village Auxiliary is hosting their annual garage sale on Friday, June 30, and Saturday, July 1, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Located at the La Veta Village Assisted Living patio/porch, 109 E Francisco.

Weekend activities at Lathrop State Park

WALSENBURG— Friday, June 30, 11: 30 a.m. Kids, come to Lathrop State Park, learn about bugs and insects and then make a Twist-an-Insect game. Meet in the Martin’s Lake swim beach area.
Friday, June 30, 7 p.m. Enjoy an evening of music! Tuco Taveras will perform at Lathrop State Park Amphitheater. Listen to his rockabilly sounds and songs of the 60’s.
Saturday, July 1, 1:30 p.m. will be Junior Rangers, there’s an activity just for you at the Visitor’s Center. Learn about what owls eat by looking through some owl pellets, and earn a Junior Ranger Badge.
Saturday, July 1, 7 p.m. Diana Miller from the Pueblo Nature and Wildlife Discovery Center and Raptor Center will be giving a presentation at the amphitheater. She will come with some of the Raptor Center’s birds and discuss birds of prey.
Remember as always Park passes are required for all vehicles.

Fox Rocks the Block

WALSENBURG— Friday, June 30, 7 p.m. join the Fox Theatre crew at Miners Plaza in downtown Walsenburg. Six Bucks and a Flight will be rocking the stage! Check out www.foxtheatrewalsenburg.org for more information.

Beginning mosaic making at LVSA

LA VETA— In this workshop at the La Veta School of the Arts you will learn the basic tools used to create contemporary mosaics.  You will learn to use the basic tools, how to break tile, the difference in tile quality,  how to compose a good design, use grout to create beautiful stepping stones, indoor wall pieces, tables, outdoor walkways or wall murals.  This class will happen Saturday, July 1 and Sunday, July 2.  The cost is $150 with a lab fee of $12 which will pay for all of your supplies.

Mud bogs in La Veta

LA VETA— Come one, come all to the 20th anniversary of the La Veta Mud Bog, Saturday, July 1, in La Veta at the Fairgrounds. The spectator gate opens at 8 a.m. Adults to 14 years of age $10, 5-13 years old
$5, and kids 5 and under free! Race begins at noon! The Huerfano County Fair Board will have mud bog t-shirts for sale! To enter contact Jerry Sporcich at 719-989-7257. Concessions will be provided by the Huerfano Highlanders 4-H Club from Gardner, Co. Also Sweet Treats Shaved Ice will be there with all of their summertime favorites!

Annual Art in the Park Festival

LA VETA— Saturday, July 1 and Sunday, July 2, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Held annually around Independence Day, La Veta’s Art in the Park features locally made, hand-crafted goods such as ceramics, paintings, woodcrafts, jewelry, glassworks and food vendors with tasty treats for sale. A great event for families, make sure to stop by during your fourth of July weekend. Free to the public.

West Peak treeline hike

CUCHARA—  Saturday, July 1,  9 a.m. Come join the Cuchara Valley Rec for a hike! This hike is to the tree line of West Spanish Peak. Please come prepared. Bring a lunch, rain gear and wear appropriate shoes. All hikes meet at the Community Center

La Veta Independence Day parade

LA VETA— The La Veta Independence Day parade will be held on Saturday, July 1st in collaboration with the Town of La Veta and Spanish Peaks Chamber of Commerce. The theme this year will be “Back to Our Roots” and we encourage any and all to join. Lineup will begin at 9:30 a.m. and take place at 126 E Garland Street, please enter off East Virginia as the entrance on Main Street will be blocked. The parade will begin at 10 a.m. and follow the same route as years past. If you are interested in participating or if you have any questions about the parade, please email Stephanie@BachmanAndAssociates.com or call (720) 987-5495.

Bookmobile Open House

GARDNER— The Spanish Peaks Library District is proud to host the Gardner Bookmobile open house on Saturday, July 1, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Visit with Library Director, Kasey Almes and staff. Learn how to use available technology to access books across Colorado. Free Childrens books from the Flamingo Book Club and light refreshments. The Bookmobile is located at 28 CR 632 in the Community Center Parking lot in Gardner.

First Chair Festival in Cuchara

CUCHARA— The First Chair Festival is on Saturday, July 1, 4 to 9 p.m. Join us at the Cuchara Mountain Mercantile for an evening of music, food, drinks, a silent auction, and more to raise money for Cuchara Mountain Park. 3 Bands with the Taylor Scott Band headlining and bringing their colorful hybrid of roots-rock, funk, soul, and troubadour-style Americana to Cuchara. Advance tickets are on sale at www.cucharamountainpark.org. $25 advance/$30 day of at the door.

Livin’ La Veta Locals

LA VETA— The Francisco Center for the Performing Arts proudly present Livin’ La Veta Locals with MiDi and Friends on Saturday, July 1 at 7 p.m. Come enjoy an evening of Jazz, Pop, Country, Broadway, R&B and Yacht Rock classics. Tickets $20 ($21 by card) Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets on sale at www.fcpalaveta.org

JW Ranch Bison Burger Cook Off

LA VETA— We are looking for cooks to compete in the cook off on Sunday, July 2, 1:30 – 5 p.m. We provide buns, American cheese and the bison meat. Cooks can put their own spin to the burger to compete for a cash prize or if they would prefer a meat prize. Contact Cooper at 307-220-4742 to register.
To come to the event, it is a $10 suggested donation, you can try as many burgers as you want, vote for your favorite, there will be fresh fries, water, lemonade and cookies! We can not provide booze but people are welcome to bring their own booze. There will also be live music by Silver Eagle. JW Ranch is located at 6794 Highway 12, La Veta.

Annual Cuchara Family Fun Run

CUCHARA— The race course is a gently rolling 1-mile course through the back roads of Cuchara! The race will begin and end at the Cuchara Community Center on Tuesday, July 4, 8 a.m. Any proceeds from the race will benefit the Cuchara Recreation Summer Programs. All ages are welcome! The first 300 who register will receive an official race t-shirt!

Cuchara Independence Day Parade

CUCHARA— The Annual July 4th parade in downtown Cuchara will be on Tuesday, July 4, 11 a.m. Line up of the parade is behind the Cuchara Lokal. Parking is up the street at the Chapel. Parade ground marshal will be the Diane Broce family. Barbecues, street dance and cornhole tournament. Come join the fun!

July 4th picnic in the park

WALSENBURG— Join the fun at Fiesta Park in Walsenburg on Tuesday, July 4, 3 – 8 p.m. This is a pot-luck style picnic, bring the whole family and a dish to share. There will be music and bakery products from Mariposa Baking. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs too!

Independence Day with the American Legion

WALSENBURG— Come celebrate July 4th with veterans and the American Legion. We’ll be celebrating Independence Day and having an awards ceremony honoring local businesses for their donations. There will be appetizers, refreshments, bar and music by the Apache Creek Fiddlers. Join us at the Eagles Hall, 614 Main St. in Walsenburg on Tuesday, July 4, 6 – 8:30 p.m. Tickets for veterans and their spouses are $20, all others will be $25.

4th of July celebrations at LSP

WALSENBURG— Tuesday, July 4, 6 p.m. This Fourth of July come and celebrate at Lathrop State Park. Begin the celebration with The American Indian Dance Theater and the Southwest Tribal Dancers who will perform in the courtyard of the parks visitor center!! Their performance will begin at 6 p.m.
Then stay for the fireworks display. The fireworks begin as soon as it gets dark – around 9 p.m.. A Special Thanks to Huerfano County Parks and Recreation for the Fireworks Display, and to the Huerfano County Fire Protection District for being on standby with their truck. Remember as always park passes are required for all vehicles.

Learn About Colorado Rocks

LA VETA— Kids, come learn about the cool rocks we have in Colorado with rock enthusiast, Harry Masinton! Join the fun at La Veta Public Library, Wednesday, July 5 th. Story time starts at 10:00 AM, activities afterwards. For more information call La Veta Library at 719-742-3572 or email stephanie@lvpl.org.

Rocks of Colorado with Harry Masinton

CUCHARA— Come get a hands-on experience with some of the most beautiful, collectable, and valuable examples of the amazing rocks and minerals the state has to offer on Wednesday, July 5th, 2 – 4 p.m. Harry Masinton founded “Mass’n Tons of Rock” over 20 years ago and has been exploring, discovering, polishing, and selling Colorado rocks and minerals ever since. Come be dazzled at the Cuchara Library, 73 Cuchara Ave.

Weekly wildflower & weed walks

LA VETA—  Learn how to ID what is what and their uses. Wildflowers, along with edible, medicinal, useful, and poisonous wild plants are popping! Gentle one hour nature walks led every Wednesday, from 5 to 6 p.m. by local interpretive naturalist Bob Kennemer. Cost $5 per person. Class size limited to 10. Current schedule: Cuchara July 5 and 12. Handouts included. Pre Registration required 24 hours in advance to learn locations and more. Email Bob at: bobkennemer@gmail.com

Creating with Clay at LVSA

LA VETA— The La Veta School of the Arts is pleased to announce that Ethan Meyler will teach Creating With Clay on Friday, July 7, 1 – 3 p.m.  for students 6 and older. In this popular class, Ethen will guide students in developing ways of shaping, molding, and building with clay. The type of clay provided does not need to be fired — that’s the beauty of it. It is also reusable forever! All FFF classes take place at LVSA, on Ryus, across from Town Park in La Veta. More information and registration is available at thelvsa.org, or by calling 719-742-3421. Cost is $10 per class, per child; early registration reduces the fee to $5.

La Veta’s Friday Art Walk

LA VETA—   Join us for art, food and fun this Friday at La Veta’s First Friday Art Walks, Friday, July 7, 4:30 – 7 p.m. The walks continue throughout the summer on August 4 and September 1. Stroll solo, or gather souls that love pondering inspiring art and meeting artists. Sponsored by the La Veta Creative District and Colorado Creative Industries. For more information, Info@LaVetaCreativeDistrict.org & LaVetaCreativeDistrict.org

LAS ANIMAS

Teen Bocce Ball

TRINIDAD— Area teens are invited to join the Carnegie Public Library at the Cimino Park Bocce Ball court for an hour of fun on Friday, June 30, 2 – 3 p.m. Fine tune your strategy and skill with a game of bocce.

Final Friday at Fishers Peak

TRINIDAD— Introducing Final Fridays at Fishers Peak State Park on Friday, June 30, 6:30 p.m. and every last Friday of the month. Join Tarantula for a lap (or two or three) on Poison Canyon at Fishers Peak State Park. Parking lot hangs to follow. Work on your skills, chase your buddies, get after it or take it slow and session some features. However you want to ride, we hope to see you there.

Friday Night Live at Trinidad Lake State Park

TRINIDAD— Every Friday Night beginning May 26th thru September 1st at 8 p.m. the park ranger/interpreter will present a program of interest to campers and the general public alike. Join us around the fire ring at the Trinidad Lake State Park amphitheater to get the latest in fishing activity, wildlife sightings and general information on hiking and biking in the area. The presentations will include an overview of the history and geology of the area and to make the most of your weekend outdoors. We provide the fire so bring your marshmallows for a fun evening under the stars.

Farmer’s Market in Trinidad

TRINIDAD— The Farmer’s Market returns this summer with fresh produce, and other delicious foods, arts, crafts, music and more at Central Park every Saturday morning from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Don’t miss it!  July 1st through Oct. 12!

Jeff and Sam at TLSP

TRINIDAD— Hailing from Trinidad, Colorado, Jeff and Sam Montoya are an acoustic folk duo that are
captivating audiences around the Front Range and Spanish Peaks regions. With Jeff’s guitar and
vocals along with Sam’s violin, their music is a harmonious and unique blend of traditional folk
and modern Americana.  Jeff and Sam are
also members of the highly acclaimed Indie Americana Rock band, Coal Town Reunion. They will be playing this Saturday July 1 st 7 p.m. at the Trinidad Lake State Park Amphitheater.

Youth Archery Program

TRINIDAD— Join Park Interpreter Pat Patrick in welcoming Parks and Wildlife District Wildlife Manager Bob Holder as he presents the Youth Archery Program. Activities include target practice, a fun shoot, a 3-D shoot, and instruction. Youth ages 7-16 are invited to attend, but must be accompanied by a parent. Instruction on the finer points of archery safety and shooting a bow will be presented. Equipment will be furnished . No personal equipment will be allowed. This event is a great opportunity for youngsters to learn more about this rapidly growing type of outdoor recreation and try their hand at using a bow. The program will be held on Sunday, July 2, promptly at 3 p.m. in the Carpois Cove area. All vehicles must have a park pass.

July full moon ride

TRINIDAD— Join Tarantula Cycles to celebrate the Buck Moon at Trinidad Lake State Park! We’ll meet at the South Shore trailhead just past the south campground on Monday, July 3, 8 p.m. Lights and a helmet required. Cold refreshments provided at the trailhead!

4th of July Water Parade

TRINIDAD— The Las Animas County Veteran’s Memorial Committee and Southern Colorado Family Center are proud to present the 2023 4th of July parade and the famous Trinidad Water Day parade. Join the fun in downtown Trinidad on Tuesday, July 4, starting at 10 a.m. Featuring the Ft. Carson Marching Band and Color Guard. There will be a picnic served at Cimino Park following the parade and ceremony at noon. For more information please contact Tommy D Productions at 719-680-4677.

Independence Day Celebration

TRINIDAD— Trinidad Historic Main Street Board proudly presents The Annual Independence Day Celebration at the Central Park ball park, 700, Smith Ave in Trinidad. Gates open and festivities begin at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, July 4. The Trinidad Triggers are playing the Santa Fe Fuego at 5:35 p.m. with a fireworks show to follow at dusk.

Bake Sale

TRINIDAD— Noah’s Ark Thrift Store, 147 E. Main St. in Trinidad will be hosting a bake sale on Friday, July 7, 10 a.m – 12 p.m. Help support Noah’s Ark and the animals they help in our community.

Women of Las Animas County

TRINIDAD— Whether you are new to the area, or have lived in Las Animas County for years, we invite you to attend a ladies night out networking group and fashion show on Friday, July 7 from 4:30 on at the Space to Create commons.
Connect with other women to learn about local resources, make new friends, and explore opportunities.

Trinidad Trails Alliance Trail Work Day

TRINIDAD—  Trinidad Trails Alliance will meet at Noah’s Ark, 224 N Chestnut St on Saturday, July 8, 10 a.m. to begin a new path for two and four-leggeds connecting Main St to the Riverwalk! All levels of experience welcome. Tools and snacks provided, BYO water, gloves and sunscreen. Tailgater to follow. Additional workdays TBD throughout the summer. For more info, contact Jenn Green 719-859-0379. trinidadtrailsalliance@gmail.com

Open Mic for all Literary Souls

TRINIDAD—The series is hosted by the Creative District on the Second Saturday of the month at The Commons at Space to Create, 218 West Main St.
The evening begins with a featured writer; the microphone then opens to all who would like to share their creative literary efforts. This event is free and open to the public. Join us Saturday, July 8 at 7 p.m. and every second Saturday.

Legacies and Legends of Trinidad book signing event

TRINIDAD— Attention history buffs!  Please plan to attend a book signing on Saturday, July 15 from 11 a.m. to noon at the Carnegie Library in Trinidad of  Segundo born Phillip Arnold Vigil’s  latest book, “Legacies and Legends, Trinidad, Colorado, 1860 – 1960”.
The book was released in February, and is described as the voice for legacies and legendary stories about the unforgettable people and events which shaped the history of Trinidad, including early founders like Felipe Baca and Frank Bloom, Michel Beshoar, Casimiro Barela, and José Agapito Vigil; well known, and not as well known, early Wild West legends like madam Mae Phelps and lawmen Lewis Kreegar  and Bat Masterton.  The book also discusses the development of Trinidad into the early 20th century by highlighting the impact of coal mining, labor activists, and residents who attained national stature, plus the local activities of the Ku Klux Klan.
If you are unable to make it to the book signing, you may also order the book for $24, plus 46 for shipping and handling by sending a check to Phillip A. Vigil, 2647 S. Johnson Circle, Lakewood, CO 80227.  For more info, contact him at pmvigil63@yahoo.com

COLFAX
   
International Santa Fe Trail Balloon Rally

RATON— Here’s your chance to enjoy fresh mountain air and a carefree and wonderful weekend filled with colorful hot air balloons, delicious food, and celebration. The 2023 International Santa Fe Trail Balloon Rally will be held from Friday to Monday, July 1 – 3 at La Mesa Airfield on York Canyon Rd, Highway 555, a half-mile west of Raton’s southernmost off ramp from I-25, Exit 450 For more information and a full schedule of the weekends events please visit www.exploreraton.com

Trash to Treasures fundraiser

ANGEL FIRE— It’s time for the Shuter Library’s annual Trash to Treasures fundraiser. Join the fun on Saturday, July 1st and Sunday July 2nd from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Angle Fire Community Center. This community garage sale benefits the Library. If you are interested in volunteering or donating please contact Linda Harkey at LindaHarkey@sbcglobal.net

Farmers Market in Cimarron

CIMARRON— Come one, come all! The Cimarron Chamber is hosting the summer’s Farmers Market at the Village Park held on Saturdays now through Labor day from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. If you are interested in becoming a vendor please call 575-376-2417 or email cimarronnm@gmail.com

Lemonade Day

RATON —  Support local youth entrepreneurs at the Second Annual Lemonade Day in Raton, New Mexico on Saturday, July 1, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.  Across Raton, 19 lemonade stands will be set up for patronage from thirsty citizens and touristy on-lookers. Be sure to check out the stands yourself.  You’ll be supporting your community and its kids all while beating back the summer heat. For a full list of locations visit https://lemonadeday.org/raton

Rotary Club Pancake Breakfast

ANGEL FIRE— Join the Rotary Club of Angel Fire for the Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, July 2, 8 – 11 a.m. at the Angel Fire Olympic Park. Plates range from $2-$8 depending on age. This is a fundraiser to support MVHS senior scholarships and the community garden. Visit angelfirerotaryclub.com for more information.

Angel Fire Farmers Market

ANGEL FIRE— Come enjoy, shopping al fresco at the Angel Fire Resort Farmers Market. Every Sunday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. until September 3. The market will bring you fresh produce, art and live music. Join the fun while shopping locally at Frontier Park, Mountain View BLVD, Angel Fire.

Enchilada Dinner for Troop 68

CIMARRON— Come join us for an enchilada dinner.  Sister Hildegard Parish Hall will be hosting the dinner on Monday, July 3, 4 – 7 p.m. Dinner is for donation ($10 minimum) and goes to Troop 68.

Brat Trot 5k

ANGEL FIRE— Sign up today for the Brat Trot 5k family fun run on Monday, July 3, 7 p.m. The Moreno Valley High School fundraiser will help support sports programs for the school. $25 suggested donation and brats will be served at the finish line. Visit www.mvhsnm.org/parents for more information.

Skate Festival

ANGEL FIRE— The Village of Angel Fire in Coordination with the Overland Project, will host a Skate Festival on Monday, July 3 and Tuesday, July 4 at Plaza Del Sol behind the Fire Station. There will be professional skaters to give demonstrations and stage competitions. The bulk of the day will be free classes for kids who want to learn to skateboard. Please bring a helmet to participate.

Independence Day Celebrations

RATON— Join Raton MainStreet on Tuesday, July 4, 1:30 p.m. on 1st St. for their annual Independence Day Parade. There will be vendors, live entertainment with contests and games for kids.

2nd Annual 4th of July Parade and light show

ANGEL FIRE— Come enjoy the 4th of July Parade on Bill Burgess Blvd on Tuesday, July 4, 11 a.m. Then meet at Frontier Park at 7 p.m. and enjoy a fireless show as hundred of drones take to the sky to form fun shapes, patterns and create quite the spectacle!

No Road Blocks car & truck show

SPRINGER—  Join the fun in downtown Springer on Saturday, July 8, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Low riders, motorcycles, trucks and more! There will be live music by the Michael Rascon Band, vendors and fun for the whole family.

Night Sky Viewing

CAPULIN— Join us for an exceptional Dark Sky experience on Saturday, July 8, 8:30 p.m. Telescopes are provided by us, and the dark northeastern New Mexico skies by nature. You will see planets, galaxies, nebula, and other amazing sights all with your own eyes.
Capulin Volcano is at a higher altitude of over 6,000 feet. Nights can get chilly even in summer. A jacket, long pants, and closed toe shoes are recommended to attend a Dark Sky program. No reservations are needed. Dark Sky programs may be changed or cancelled due to weather.

Events for the week of June 22, 2023

OUR WORLD

BATTLEMOOR
HUERFANO/LAS ANIMAS— Some years past, with great delight, the wise leaders of the Outlands created a summer festival called Battlemoor, in the cool mountains where all could find rest and friendly competition. Alliances are strengthened, hospitality is joyfully returned, and feasts and revels abound. Battlemoor has become the gathering place for the all the widespread peoples of the region to meet old friends and new, to exhibit valor, and to have fun in a myriad of ways. It’s the Return of Battlemoor at a brand new site. Join us at the foot of the beautiful Spanish Peaks in southern Colorado.
Battlemoor will be held Wednesday, June 28 – Sunday, July 2 at the Sporleder Centennial Ranch,
19530 County Rd 54.2, west of Aguilar. To register, join the Society for Creative Anachronism, or for more information, please visit www.battlemoor.org.

HUERFANO

RSVP now for the John Mall High School Class of 1981 Reunion, and tour the new high school
WALSENBURG— The great class of 1981 is holding a reunion this summer on Friday, June 30 through Saturday July 1 in Walsenburg.   Cocktails and Conversations will be from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Whistle Stop Lofts at 408 Russell Street.
On Saturday, come to a Hoedown BBQ at the Eagles, 614 Main featuring cocktails at 5 p.m., dinner at 6 p.m. and music and dancing from 7 p.m. on.   Wear western attire to enter a drawing for a prize.
Other activities for the weekend are now being organized, including bowling and potentially, a ‘Thanks For All The Memories’ tour of John Mall High School, which will be torn down next year, as well as a site visit of the new high school which will open next January.
Please RSVP to Sandy Montoya-Foster at
sandi_diva_foster@hotmail.com

Head Start Now Enrolling
WALSENBURG— South Central Colorado Head Start is now enrolling Pre-school children 3 – 5 years old. Call now to apply 719-420-0125.

Fridays For Fun:  Art for the Young Human Being
LA VETA—The La Veta School of the Arts is pleased to announce that Sharona Whitley, artist and educator, will teach a class to Make a Magic Bubble Wand. Students will thread beads, washers, and other objects onto wire to create their own wand. Sharona makes this class quite an adventure, to match the fun you will have using your wand. All classes take place at LVSA,across from the park in La Veta. thelvsa.org website is available for more information. Early registration reduces the fee from $10 to $5 per student, per class. To pre-register, you may use the website or call 719.742.3421

El Arte De Nuestros Abuelos
WALSENBURG— The monthly Art of the grandparents, featuring Jenn Dunn leading the painting class, will be held at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg on Thursday, June 22 from 1 to 3 p.m. The subject will be a 4th of July theme, fun and fanciful. Always free, refreshments  provided, all materials will be supplied. Come and celebrate this favorite holiday with a group of wonderful and creative people. RSVP text or call S. Johnston 719 989-8438. Sponsored by HHF-Huajatolla Heritage Foundation, and Arts in Society.

Weekend fun at Lathrop Park 
WALSENBURG— Kids are invited to have some fun on Friday, June 23, 11:30 a.m.  and paint a rock at the Martin lake swim beach area.
Also on Friday, at 7 p.m. in the visitor center conference room, Geologist Brian Penn will talk about the geologic history of the Spanish Peaks area. Learn how the crust and upper mantle interaction produced the many igneous bodies of the region. This presentation will take place in the Visitor Center Conference Room.
On Saturday, June 24, 1:30 p.m. will be a Junior Ranger activity on transition zones at the amphitheater.
At 7 p.m. in the visitor center conference room,  Christina Penn will teach about Colorado’s historic and modern carousels and where you can go to ride a piece of history.
On Sunday, June 25, 10 a.m. break the code on a Code Breaker Hike. Please meet at the ampitheater.
All activities do require a park pass that can be purchased at the entrance of Lathrop State Park.

Free movie on the Mountain Fri.
CUCHARA— Bachman & Associates Presents Movie on the Mountain at the Cuchara Mountain Park for the 2nd year on Friday, June 23. This event is FREE to the public so bring your friends and family to enjoy a night under the stars while you watch a movie on the big screen. Park will open at 7:30 p.m. for people to set up their chairs and blankets. We look forward to seeing everyone there this year! Thank you to the Fox Theatre for providing the equipment and production team.

Cuchara Trail Runs
CUCHARA— Saturday, June 24, 5 a.m. Cuchara features distances of 50-Miles, 36-Mile, and our King & Queen of The Trench in gorgeous Spanish Peaks Country of Huerfano County. Join us during summer solstice weekend for the toughest 50-Mile and 60k on the HPRS calendar -or- race to the top of Trinchera Peak (13,570′) and back to become King or Queen of The Trench -or- join us for an intro to trail running 5-Mile. For more information please visit https://runsignup.com/Race/CO/LaVeta/Cuchara

SCCY Rummage sale
WALSENBURG— Come and find a treasure or something you can’t live with out on Saturday, June 24, 10 a.m. at 513 Main St. All proceeds go ro support summer programming for kids.

Fiber and Craft Festival
LA VETA— The much-loved Fiber and Craft Festival will be held in La Veta Saturday, June 24, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. After scrambling several years in a row with inclement weather, we decided this year we will just plan everything indoors. It we have a beautiful Saturday; some Vendors may set up outside. Our indoor venues include La Veta Community Center (131 E. Ryus Ave.), La Veta Mercantile (300 S. Main) “the old title building” (225 S. Main) and the Capps Building at Francisco Fort Museum (306 S. Main) Once again, we have many great artists and vendors, such as Taos Wools and Mora Valley Spinning Mill. Come join us. Contact sdolak@hhfoundation.org for more information.

WHS Class of 1983 40th Reunion
WALSENBURG— The Walsenburg High School Class of 1983 will be having their 40th class reunion the weekend of June 23rd and 24th.
On Friday, June 23, 6:30 p.m. we’ll be having pizza and drinks at Silver Dollar. On Saturday, June 24 we’ll meet at the high school at 1 p.m. for a school tour and bus ride around town. At 5:30 p.m. we’ll meet at the Walsenburg Golf Course for dinner, drinks and dancing. Please contact Mary (Wells) Norby at 719-989-3926 for further details.

Huge yard sale-ROAR For Relay For Life
WALSENBURG— Multiperson huge yard sale at the Farm Bureau parking lot, 713 Walsen AVE, Walsenburg on Saturday, June 24, 8 a.m. untill all items are gone. There will be a bounce house for kids and food and drinks as well. Donations are accepted beforehand, call Kendra at 719-680-0693. This huge yard sale is a ROAR For Relay For Life fundraiser. Fighting back against cancer by shopping for treasures!

Fox Theatre outdoor movie Sat.
WALSENBURG— On Saturday, June 24th at dusk join the Fox Theatre for a free outdoor movie! The Fox will be showing Trading Places starring Dan Aykroyd and Eddie Murphy. This month’s movie will be held in “the lot” next to the Fox Theatre, 719 Main St,

Live music event at the Parkside
LA VETA— Live music and games at The Parkside Art Gallery and Café on Sunday, June 25, from 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Michael Steward will again be playing your favorite music while you can play a game. We’re looking forward to seeing you!

Cuchara Chapel Service
CUCHARA— On Sunday,  June 25 Rev. Jim Tucker of the Episcopal Church will be at the Cuchara Chapel, located off Hwy 12 just south of Cuchara Village. Service times are at 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Updates are posted on Facebook and CucharaChapel.org

SPLD Presents Gardening 101
WALSENBURG— Sunday, June 25, 1 p.m.  This month’s topic is Tasks for the July Garden.  Come join us and find out what you should and shouldn’t be doing in the landscape and veggie garden for the month of July.  Should you plant or transplant?  Should you fertilize?  Should you water more or less?  Should you prune?  Get your questions answered in our interactive forum where there is no such thing as a dumb question. Gardening 101 is held at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg.

Survivor and Caregiver Ice Cream Social
WALSENBURG— You are cordially invited to our ROAR for Relay for Life, Survivor and Caregiver Ice Cream Social on Sunday, June 25, 2 p.m. at Delaney Hall in Walsenburg. We fight back against cancer year round and hope that all survivors, caregivers and their families in Las Animas & Huerfano counties can join us. Ice cream with toppings and light refreshments, speakers, music and timet to relax and visit. Chances will be available to purchase for Spanish Peaks Lion’s team “Hope in Bloom” quilt hand made by Sharon Boardman.

Experimental Drawing and Painting at LVSA
LA VETA— LVSA presents Peggy Zehring’s fun, abstract, experimental drawing and painting one week or two week class which will be happening at The La Veta School of the Arts in La Veta, Monday, June 26 through Friday, June 30. Draw with charcoal and then use the images you created spontaneously to unfold abstract paintings. You’ll learn to make your work personal and original. All levels of experience are welcome.  Cost is $375.00 a week.  For more information or to register call 719-742-3421, or e-mail LVArtSchool@yahoo.com or register online at www.theLVSA.org

Water Conservancy District Meeting
WALSENBURG— The monthly board meeting of the Huerfano County Water Conservancy District will be held in person at the Walsenburg Housing Authority activity room, 220 Russell St, Walsenburg, on Monday, June 26, 6 p.m. The draft agenda for the meeting will be available on the district’s website: www.hcwcd.net.

All About Fishing with Wildlife Officer, Spencer Gerk
LA VETA— Kids, come learn all about fish and fishing this week with our local wildlife officer. This program will be held at La Veta Public Library, Wednesday, June 28, 10 a.m. For more info call La Veta Library, 719-742-3572 or email stephanie@lvpl.org.

Weekly wildflower & weed walks
LA VETA—  Learn how to ID what is what and their uses. Wildflowers, along with edible, medicinal, useful, and poisonous wild plants are popping! Gentle one hour nature walks led every Wednesday, from 5 to 6 p.m. by local interpretive naturalist Bob Kennemer. Cost $5 per person. Class size limited to 10. Current schedule: La Veta: June 28, Cuchara July 5 and 12. Handouts included. Pre Registration required 24 hours in advance to learn locations and more. Email Bob at: bobkennemer@gmail.com

Free computer help and classes
WALSENBURG— C Cubed Training will be hosting free Computer help and classes every Wednesday night at 6 p.m. through the summer months. There will be free food and drink as well as door prizes. One lucky attendee will win a new computer at the end of the summer series. If you have questions or need computer help, stop on by 521 main street in Walsenburg or call 719-252-5168.

Cuchara walking history tour
CUCHARA— Join us on our very popular and always changing Walking History Tour of Cuchara where you will learn some of the earliest history of our beloved Cuchara.  We have updated the tour to include some simple geologic history, Native American information and Land Grant maps. You will see old photos of our area and learn stories of some of our earliest pioneers.
Join us in our walk or ride along in a golf cart on Thursday, June 29, 9 a.m. We’ll meet at the Cuchara Recreation Center.

La Veta Village Garage Sale
LA VETA— The La Veta Village Auxiliary is hosting their annual garage sale on Friday, June 30, and Saturday, July 1, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Located at the La Veta Village Assisted Living patio/porch, 109 E Francisco.

Fox Rocks the Block
WALSENBURG— Friday, June 30, 7 p.m. join the Fox Theatre crew at Miners Plaza in downtown Walsenburg. Six Bucks and a Flight will be rocking the stage! Check out www.foxtheatrewalsenburg.org for more information.

Beginning Mosaic Making at LVSA
LA VETA— In this workshop at the La Veta School of the Arts you will learn the basic tools used to create contemporary mosaics.  You will learn to use the basic tools, how to break tile, the difference in tile quality,  how to compose a good design, use grout to create beautiful stepping stones, indoor wall pieces, tables, outdoor walkways or wall murals.  This class will happen Saturday, July 1 and Sunday, July 2.  The cost is $150 with a lab fee of $12 which will pay for all of your supplies.

Mud Bogs in La Veta
LA VETA— Come one, come all to the 20th anniversary of the La Veta Mud Bog, Saturday, July 1, in La Veta at the Fairgrounds. The spectator gate opens at 8 a.m. Adults to 14 years of age $10, 5-13 years old
$5, and kids 5 and under free! Race begins at noon! The Huerfano County Fair Board will have mud bog t-shirts for sale! To enter contact Jerry Sporcich at 719-989-7257. Concessions will be provided by the Huerfano Highlanders 4-H Club from Gardner, Co. Also Sweet Treats Shaved Ice will be there with all of their summertime favorites!

Livin’ La Veta Locals
LA VETA— The Francisco Center for the Performing Arts proudly present Livin’ La Veta Locals with MiDi and Friends on Saturday, July 1 at 7 p.m. Come enjoy an evening of Jazz, Pop, Country, Broadway, R&B and Yacht Rock classics. Tickets $20 ($21 by card) Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets on sale at www.fcpalaveta.org

Annual Art in the Park Festival in the La Veta Town Park
LA VETA— Saturday, July 1 and Sunday, July 2, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Held annually around Independence Day, La Veta’s Art in the Park features locally made, hand-crafted goods such as ceramics, paintings, woodcrafts, jewelry, glassworks and food vendors with tasty treats for sale. A great event for families, make sure to stop by during your fourth of July weekend. Free to the public.

La Veta Independence Day parade
LA VETA— The La Veta Independence Day parade will be held on Saturday, July 1st in collaboration with the Town of La Veta and Spanish Peaks Chamber of Commerce. The theme this year will be “Back to Our Roots” and we encourage any and all to join. Lineup will begin at 9:30 a.m. and take place at 126 E Garland Street, please enter off East Virginia as the entrance on Main Street will be blocked. The parade will begin at 10 a.m. and follow the same route as years past. If you are interested in participating or if you have any questions about the parade, please email Stephanie@BachmanAndAssociates.com or call (720) 987-5495.

West Peak Treeline Hike
CUCHARA—  Saturday, July 1,  9 a.m. Come join the Cuchara Valley Rec for a hike! This hike is to the tree line of West Spanish Peak. Please come prepared. Bring a lunch, rain gear and wear appropriate shoes. All hikes meet at the Community Center

Bookmobile Open House
GARDNER— The Spanish Peaks Library District is proud to host the Gardner Bookmobile open house on Saturday, July 1, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Visit with Library Director, Kasey Almes and staff. Learn how to use available technology to access books across Colorado. Free Childrens books from the Flamingo Book Club and light refreshments. The Bookmobile is located at 28 CR 632 in the Community Center Parking lot in Gardner.

First Chair Festival
CUCHARA— The First Chair Festival is on Saturday, July 1, 4 to 9 p.m. Join us at the Cuchara Mountain Mercantile for an evening of music, food, drinks, a silent auction, and more to raise money for Cuchara Mountain Park. 3 Bands with the Taylor Scott Band headlining and bringing their colorful hybrid of roots-rock, funk, soul, and troubadour-style Americana to Cuchara. Advance tickets are on sale at www.cucharamountainpark.org. $25 advance/$30 day of at the door.

JW Ranch Bison Burger Cook Off
LA VETA— We are looking for cooks to compete in the cook off on Sunday, July 2, 1:30 – 5 p.m. We provide buns, American cheese and the bison meat. Cooks can put their own spin to the burger to compete for a cash prize or if they would prefer a meat prize. Contact Cooper at 307-220-4742 to register.
To come to the event, it is a $10 suggested donation, you can try as many burgers as you want, vote for your favorite, there will be fresh fries, water, lemonade and cookies! We can not provide booze but people are welcome to bring their own booze. There will also be live music by Silver Eagle. JW Ranch is located at 6794 Highway 12, La Veta.

Annual Family Fun Run
CUCHARA— The race course is a gently rolling 1-mile course through the back roads of Cuchara! The race will begin and end at the Cuchara Community Center on Tuesday, July 4, 8 a.m. Any proceeds from the race will benefit the Cuchara Recreation Summer Programs. All ages are welcome! The first 300 who register will receive an official race t-shirt!

Independence Day with the American Legion
WALSENBURG— Come celebrate July 4th with veterans and the American Legion. We’ll be celebrating Independence Day and having an awards ceremony honoring local businesses for their donations. There will be appetizers, refreshments, bar and music by the Apache Creek Fiddlers. Join us at the Eagles Hall, 614 Main St. in Walsenburg on Tuesday, July 4, 6 – 8:30 p.m. Tickets for veterans and their spouses are $20, all others will be $25.

Rocks of Colorado with Harry Masinton
CUCHARA— Come get a hands-on experience with some of the most beautiful, collectable, and valuable examples of the amazing rocks and minerals the state has to offer on Wednesday, July 5th, 2 – 4 p.m. Harry Masinton founded “Mass’n Tons of Rock” over 20 years ago and has been exploring, discovering, polishing, and selling Colorado rocks and minerals ever since. Come be dazzled at the Cuchara Library, 73 Cuchara Ave.

LAS ANIMAS

Street Closure – Moore’s Canyon Rd
TRINIDAD— Moore’s Canyon Road from Santa Fe Trail to Peak Street will be closed from June 12th to June 30th for a new gas line installation to add to infrastructure improvements throughout the City of Trinidad. Crews will be out starting June 5th to prep the road for construction and closure. Please slow down and pay attention, workers and flaggers will be on site and need your cooperation.

Kids Intro to Fly Fishing Day
TRINIDAD— Please join us on Friday, June 23, 9 a.m. at Central Park at the fishing pond in Trinidad for our multi-partner Kids Introduction to Fly Fishing Day! No experience necessary and you don’t need to bring any equipment! Kids of all ages and parents/caregivers are welcome! Attendees will be provided with poles and fly tying materials and will cycle through 3 teaching stations. Then we’ll try our hand at casting in the pond and catch some fish! Followed by pizza lunch, free fishing tattoos and stickers, and whoever wants to stay can keep on fishing!
Thanks so much to event partners including Colorado Parks & Wildlife, local Trout Unlimited Chapter Purgatoire River Anglers, Hi-Country Flies (home of the original Pistol Pete), Confluence Collective, Fishers Peak Outfitters, and PWP.

Friday Night Live at Trinidad Lake State Park
TRINIDAD— Every Friday Night beginning May 26th thru September 1st at 8 p.m. the park ranger/interpreter will present a program of interest to campers and the general public alike. Join us around the fire ring at the Trinidad Lake State Park amphitheater to get the latest in fishing activity, wildlife sightings and general information on hiking and biking in the area. The presentations will include an overview of the history and geology of the area and to make the most of your weekend outdoors. We provide the fire so bring your marshmallows for a fun evening under the stars.

VFD Auxiliary Flea Market
BONCARBO— Join the BonCarbo VFD Auxiliary on Saturday, June 24, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. for their annual Flea Market. The Market will be held at 14589 County Road 57.7. Tables are available for rent for $10, please call 719-846-8538 to reserve.

Lean Bike Ride
TRINIDAD— Join Startup Colorado and Juan Delaroca of Gravel Adventure Field Guide for the next iteration of networking in the outdoor industry. On Saturday, June 24th, at 9 a.m. we’re headed to Trinidad—Colorado’s fastest growing destination for gravel biking.We’ll start at Mutiny Cafe for a classic Lean Coffee networking conversation. Then we’ll tour historic downtown Trinidad by bike. Visit Startupcolorado.org for more information.

Community Garden play day
AGUILAR— Kiddos ages 5 – 7 come play in the community garden on Saturday, June 24, 10:30 a.m. We will be planting in the garden and planting some take home plants as well. Lunch will be included and guardians must be present at all times. Please register by Friday, June 23 at the Aguilar Public Library.

Sister Blandina Music Night
TRINIDAD— Sister Blandina Wellness Gardens in Trinidad will be hosting an evening of music with Jeff and Samantha Montoya on Saturday, June 24, 7 p.m. There is a $5 cover charge, beer, wine and food will be available for purchase.

Live Raptors at TLSP
TRINIDAD— Saturday, June 24, 7 p.m. Please join Trinidad Lake State Park Staff in welcoming Diana Miller from the Nature and Raptor Center of Pueblo for a very special presentation about raptors. Her program will allow you to develop a deeper understanding of these fascinating creatures. Join us at the park amphitheater for an opportunity to get up close and personal with LIVE raptors.

109th Annual Ludlow Memorial
LUDLOW— We are preparing to hold the Annual Ludlow service this year. The service will be held on Sunday, June 25, 10 a.m. ar the Ludlow Memorial Site. We are happy to announce our speakers for this years service. Our Keynote Speaker will be UMWA Internation Sect-Treas Brian Sanson. Also, UMWA D.-22 Internation V.P. Mike Dalpiaz and Executive Director of the Colorado AFL-CIO Dennis Dougherty will also be speaking. There will be BBQ to follow the ceremony. In memory of the men, women and children who lost their lives in freedom’s cause at Ludlow on April 20, 1914.

Foam Party in the park
TRINIDAD— Join in the fun at Cimino Park on Tuesday, June 27, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. as the Carnegie Public Library Summer Series hosts a Foam Dance Party! Come join in the music and fun! Free and open to the public, lets all dance together!

Teen Bocce Ball
TRINIDAD— Area teens are invited to join the Carnegie Public Library at the Cimino Park Bocce Ball court for an hour of fun on Friday, June 30, 2 – 3 p.m. Fine tune your strategy and skill with a game of bocce.

Women of Las Animas County
TRINIDAD— Whether you are new to the area, or have lived in Las Animas County for years, we invite you to attend a ladies night out networking group and fashion show on Friday, July 7 from from 4:30 on at the Space to Create commons.
Connect with other women to learn about local resouces, make new friends, and explore opportunities.

Legacies and Legends of Trinidad book signing event
TRINIDAD— Attention history buffs!  Please plan to attend a book signing on Saturday, July 15 from 11 a.m. to noon at the Carnegie Library in Trinidad of  Segundo born Phillip Arnold Vigil’s latest book, “Legacies and Legends, Trinidad, Colorado, 1860 – 1960”.
The book was released in February, and is described as the voice for legacies and legendary stories about the unforgettable people and events which shaped the history of Trinidad, including early founders like Felipe Baca and Frank Bloom, Michel Beshoar, Casimiro Barela, and José Agapito Vigil; well known, and not as well known, early Wild West legends like madam Mae Phelps and lawmen Lewis Kreegar and Bat Masterton.  The book also discusses the development of Trinidad into the early 20th century by highlighting the impact of coal mining, labor activists, and residents who attained national stature, plus the local activities of the Ku Klux Klan.
If you are unable to make it to the book signing, you may also order the book for $24, plus 46 for shipping and handling by sending a check to Phillip A. Vigil, 2647 S. Johnson Circle, Lakewood, CO 80227.  For more info, contact him at pmvigil63@yahoo.com

Farmer’s Market in Trinidad
TRINIDAD— The Farmer’s Market returns this summer with fresh produce, and other delicious foods, arts, crafts, music and more at Central Park every Saturday morning from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Don’t miss it!  July 1st through Oct. 12!

COLFAX

Farmers Market in Cimarron
CIMARRON— Come one, come all! The Cimarron Chamber is hosting the summer’s Farmers Market at the Village Park held on Saturdays now through Labor day from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. If you are interested in becoming a vendor please call 575-376-2417 or email cimarronnm@gmail.com

Fritos Banditos craft fair
RATON— Join us for the first annual Frito Banditos Craft Fair on Saturday, June 24, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. at 1012 S 2nd St. in Raton. There will be cotton candy and popcorn for purchase, all proceeds fo to the Raton Booster Club. Vendor spots are still available at $20. Please call 575-707-8888 for more information.

Angel Fire Farmers Market
ANGEL FIRE— Come enjoy, shopping al fresco at the Angel Fire Resort Farmers Market. Every Sunday, 10 a.m. – 2p.m. until September 3. The market will bring you fresh produce, art and live music. Join the fun while shopping locally at Frontier Park, Mountain View BLVD, Angel Fire.

Summer Worship Services
COLFAX— Regular weekly services will begin on Sunday, June 25, 2:30 p.m. for the Little Rock Church on Johnson Mesa. The known worship leaders thus far are; Ned Ortiz, Ret. Salvation Army Minister and Lay Speaker, Raton Methodist Church on Sunday, June 25th.  Eric Armstrong, Pastor, Baptist Church-Folsom, on Sunday, July 2nd.

Summer Carnival
RATON— Join the fun at the annual Carnival in Raton, Friday, June 22 – Sunday, June 25 at the Raton High School. Tickets are $25 in advance and can be purchased at In Bank in Raton and Trinidad. Tickets at the door are $35.

International Santa Fe Trail Balloon Rally
RATON— Here’s your chance to enjoy fresh mountain air and a carefree and wonderful weekend filled with colorful hot air balloons, delicious food, and celebration. The 2023 International Santa Fe Trail Balloon Rally will be held from Friday to Monday, July 1 – 3 at La Mesa Airfield on York Canyon Rd, Highway 555, a half-mile west of Raton’s southernmost off-ramp from I-25, Exit 450 For more information and a full schedule of the weekend’s events please visit www.exploreraton.com

Trash to Treasures fundraiser
ANGEL FIRE— It’s time for the Shuter Library’s annual Trash to Treasures fundraiser. Join the fun on Saturday, July 1st and Sunday July 2nd from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Angle Fire Community Center. This community garage sale benefits the Library. If you are interested in volunteering or donating please contact Linda Harkey at LindaHarkey@sbcglobal.net

Rotary Club Pancake Breakfast
ANGEL FIRE— Join the Rotary Club of Angel Fire for the Pancake Breakfast on Sunday, July 2, 8 – 11 a.m. at the Angel Fire Olympic Park. Plates range from $2-$8 depending on age. This is a fundraiser to support MVHS senior scholarships and the community garden. Visit angelfirerotaryclub.com for more information.

Independence Day Parade
RATON— Join Raton MainStreet on Tuesday, July 4, 1:30 p.m. on 2nd St. for their annual Independence Day Parade.

Upcoming Events for June 15, 2023

OUR WORLD

BATTLEMOOR

HUERFANO/LAS ANIMAS— Some years past, with great delight, the wise leaders of the Outlands created a summer festival called Battlemoor, in the cool mountains where all could find rest and friendly competition. Alliances are strengthened, hospitality is joyfully returned, and feasts and revels abound. Battlemoor has become the gathering place for the all the widespread peoples of the region to meet old friends and new, to exhibit valor, and to have fun in a myriad of ways. It’s the Return of Battlemoor at a brand new site, join us at the foot of the beautiful Spanish Peaks in southern Colorado.
Battlemoor will be held Tuesday, June 27 – Sunday, July 2 at the Sporleder Centennial Ranch
19530 County Rd 54.2 Aguilar. To register or for more information please visit www.Battlemoor.com

HUERFANO

RSVP now for the John Mall High School Class of 1981 Reunion, and get a tour of the new high school building

WALSENBURG— The great class of 1981 is holding a reunion this summer on Friday, June 30 through Saturday July 1 in Walsenburg.   Cocktails and Conversations will be from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Whistle Stop Lofts at 408 Russell Street.
On Saturday, come to a Hoedown BBQ at the Eagles, 614 Main featuring cocktails at 5 p.m., dinner at 6 p.m. and music and dancing from 7 p.m. on.   Wear western attire to enter a drawing for a prize.
Other activities for the weekend are now being organized, including bowling and potentially, a ‘Thanks For All The Memories’ tour of John Mall High School, which will be torn down next year, as well as a site visit of the new high school which will open next January.
Please let Sandy Montoya-Foster know if you are coming by emailing her at
sandi_diva_foster@hotmail.com

Francisco Fort open

LA VETA— The Francisco Fort in La Veta is open for the season. Hours are 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. For more information on the Fort and summer events go to www.franciscofort.org  There is no admission fee and all events at the Fort this summer are free and open to the public.

Fridays For Fun:  Art for the Young Human Being

LA VETA—The La Veta School of the Arts is pleased to announce that Sharona Whitley, artist and educator, will teach a class to Make a Magic Bubble Wand. Students will thread beads, washers, and other objects onto wire to create their own wand. Sharona makes this class quite an adventure, to match the fun you will have using your wand. All classes take place at LVSA,across from the park in La Veta. thelvsa.org website is available for more information. Early registration reduces the fee from $10 to $5 per student, per class. To pre-register, you may use the website or call 719.742.3421

Farmers market schedule

HUERFANO— It’s that time of year again! Get ready for a wonderful season filled with lots of local goodies grown, supplied, crafted and for purchase. La Veta will have their market every Thursday, 3-5 p.m. starting May 18th in the park next to the library on Main St. Cuchara will have their market on Fridays starting May 19, from 4 – 6 p.m. at the Cuchara Mountain Mercantile. Gardner will have their markets every Saturday, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. under the pavilion next to the Methodist church. Last but most certainly not least is Walsenburg’s market held every Sunday at Heritage Park on Main St. near the railroad tracks from 12 – 2 p.m. starting May 29. For more information and to become a vendor please email costeawood1@gmail.com.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

HUERFANO— Thursday, June 15 is World Abuse Awareness Day. The Huerfano County Department of Human Services Adult Protection team asks that you wear purple on Tuesday, June 15 in support of this day.

SPLD Presents the Friends of the Library Book Sale

WALSENBURG— Join the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg on Thursday, June 15th and Friday, June 16th from 10 – 3 p.m.  Come check out our awesome collection of donated books for sale at low prices!  Proceeds help the Friends support our library.

Weekend fun at Lathrop State Park 

WALSENBURG— On Friday, June 16, 11:30 a.m. Hey, kids let’s do something just for fun and make some constellation cards. Meet at the Martin’s lake swim beach area. Later friday evening, come listen to Tuco Tavera’s rockabilly sounds and songs of the 6o’s. The fun begins at 7 p.m. in the park amphitheater.
Saturday, June 17 meet at 1 p.m. in the amphitheater for a Junior Ranger Activity on the topic of trees. Later Saturday at 7 p.m., CPW aquatic biologist Carrie Tucker will be talking about fisheries management at Lathrop State Park and can answer your fish-related questions! She will talk about what fish species are stocked in each lake and why, provide information about nearby reservoirs, and discuss proper fish handling (for kids), and fish ecology. This event is at the Amphitheater.
Sunday June, 18, 8 p.m. “Stories in the Stars” with Reed. Learn to identify constellations in our night skys. Hear a story from Greek mythology and see what constellations you can identify. This event will be held at the Amphitheater.
Lathrop State Park is located at 70 CR 502 off HWY 160. A park pass is required to enter the park and can be purchased at the entrance.

Fox Rocks the Block

WALSENBURG— This Friday, June 16, 7 p.m. join the Fox Theatre crew at Miners Plaza in downtown Walsenburg. WestRock will be playing some TOOL covers and the Apache Creek Fiddlers will there too! Check out www.foxtheatrewalsenburg.org for more information.

Cornhole for Relay for Life

WALSENBURG— Huerfano Cornhole is hosting a fundraising game for Relay for life on Saturday, June 17, check-in is at 10 a.m. at the Huerfano County Community Center in Walsenburg. Register on the Scoreholio app or in person. There will be concessions for purchase, raffles, mystery bags, and knockout competition too.

Flamingo Storytime and a Movie

WALSENBURG— Join us for a fantastic collaboration between The Flamingo Book Club & the Walsenburg Mercantile on Saturday, June 17, 2 p.m. Get ready for an amazing event, Flamingo Storytime and Movie! Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of storytelling as we present the beloved tale of Lyle Lyle Crocodile! Sing along, dance, and let your imagination soar with this heartwarming story. But wait, there’s more! Gub Gubs is offering a sweet deal exclusively for our attendees: Enjoy their delicious ice cream for just $3.00 plus tax when you join us for the story and show!  For more information, please visit our website at flamingobooksclub.org

Annual Western Rendezvous Art Show

LA VETA— Everyone is invited to the reception this Saturday, June 17, 5 – 7 p.m. for the annual Western Rendezvous show at the SPACe Gallery in La Veta. Awards will be presented to the winners in this juried and judged show. 1st Place: Rudl R. Mergleman of Florence; 2nd Place: Joe Horvath of Monte Vista; 3rd Place: Tom Lockhart of Canon City; and Merit Award: Brenda Gomez of Pueblo. Refreshments will be provided and there is no admission fee, however, donations are gratefully accepted. The SPACe Gallery, 132 W. Ryus, is operated by the Spanish Peaks Arts Council, a nonprofit organization.

Live Music event at the Parkside

LA VETA— Live music and games at The Parkside Art Gallery and Café on Sunday, June 18, from 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Michael Steward will again be playing your favorite music while you can play a game. We’re looking forward to seeing you!

Junior Golf Camp

WALSENBURG— Huerfano County Golf Camp is hosting at Junior Golf Camp Monday, June 19 and Tuesday June 20, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Walsenburg Golf Course. The camp is open to ages 6 – 13 and is $20 to participate. To sign up or for more information visit twopeaksfitness.org

Nerd Trivia! with La Veta Public Library

LA VETA— Join LVPL at Mountain Merman Brewery at 220 S. Main, on Monday, June 19, 6 p.m. for Nerd Trivia. There is no charge to participate in trivia. Great prizes donated by Mountain Merman Brewery! Want to host a library event at your business? We want to hear from you, info@lvpl.org

La Veta Writes Writing Group

LA VETA— If you’re interested in connecting with other writers, making writing a bigger part of your life, or if you’re a longtime writer working on a project, a song writer, a poet, or enjoy journaling, come check out the monthly gathering of La Veta Writes, Tuesday, June 20 from 3 – 5 p.m. at The Parkside Art Gallery, 127 W Ryus Ave. (We meet on the 3rd Tuesday of each month.) If you enjoy or want to practice reading your work aloud, bring up to 2-pages of writing (double-spaced, 12 pt). This is a free gathering. Donations to The Parkside are welcome, but are not required. (They generously make the space available for us after hours.) Sponsored by the La Veta Creative District & Colorado Creative Industries, LaVetaCreativeDistrict.org. For more info, email info@lavetacreativedistrict.org

Experimental Drawing and Painting at LVSA

LA VETA— LVSA presents Peggy Zehring’s fun, abstract, experimental drawing and painting one week or two week class which will be happening at The La Veta School of the Arts in La Veta, from Monday, June 19 through Friday, June 23, and Monday, June 26 through Friday, June 30. Draw with charcoal and then use the images you created spontaneously to unfold abstract paintings. You’ll learn to make your work personal and original. All levels of experience are welcome.  Cost is $375.00 a week.  For more information or to register call 719-742-3421, or e-mail LVArtSchool@yahoo.com or register online at www.theLVSA.org

Walsenburg history tour RESCHEDULED

WALSENBURG— The Herzon Mine tour is reschedule for Wednesday, June 21, meet at 9 a.m. at the Walsenburg Mining Museum. There are still a few openings for this tour so please email or leave message at 719-738-2346 if you would like to reschedule or attend this tour. Thanks to all who attended the Taos Trail Tour on June 10 and made it a great success

Magic Potions, Science Experiments, and Lemonade

LA VETA— Plan to get messy as you create your own magic potions, watch fun science experiments and make your own lemonade. Join us at the La Veta Library, Wednesday, June 21, at 10 a.m. For more information please call the La Veta Library 719-742-3572 or email stephanie@lvpl.org.

Volunteer Fair

WALSENBURG— Looking for a new volunteer opportunity? We would like to invite community member to join us in connecting with local nonprofit and public service organizations. It’s the perfect time for agencies to share available volunteer opportunities and for lour local population to seek our new areas of interest for volunteerism. Join us for theis FREE first-time ever event at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg on Wednesday, June 21, 3 – 6 p.m.

Weekly wildflower & weed walks
– UPDATED-

LA VETA—  Wildflowers, along with edible, medicinal, useful, and dangerous wild plants are popping! Learn how to ID what is what. Gentle one hour nature walks led every Wednesday, from 5 to 6 p.m. by local interpretive naturalist Bob Kennemer. Cost $5.00 per person. Class size limited to 10. Spring schedule:  June 7 in/near La Veta. June 14, 21, 28 in/near Cuchara Village. Handouts included. Pre Registration required 24 hours in advance, and to learn more, email Bob at: bobkennemer@gmail.com

SPLD Presents Trivia Night

WALSENBURG— Join the Spanish Peaks Library  at the Second Street Bar & Grill at the Golf Course, for Trivia on Wednesday, June 21, 6 p.m. This month’s categories are 1) Colorado Mines (T or F) 2) Flag Day  3) Fox Theatre History  4) (Visual) Yoga Poses and  5) Scooby Doo.  Winners get $20 off your team’s table tab.  Great food and drinks available!

El Arte De Nuestros Abuelos

WALSENBURG— The monthly Art of the grandparents, featuring Jenn Dunn leading the painting class, will be held at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg on Thursday, June 22 from 1 to 3 p.m. The subject will be a 4th of July theme, fun and fanciful. Always free, refreshments  provided, all materials will be supplied. Come and celebrate this favorite holiday with a group of wonderful and creative people. RSVP text or call S. Johnston 719 989-8438. Sponsored by HHF-Huajatolla Heritage Foundation, and Arts in Society.

Movie on the Mountain

CUCHARA— Bachman & Associates Presents Movie on the Mountain at the Cuchara Mountain Park for the 2nd year on Friday, June 23. This event is FREE to the public so bring your friends and family to enjoy a night under the stars while you watch a movie on the big screen. Park will open at 7:30 p.m. for people to set up their chairs and blankets. We look forward to seeing everyone there this year! Thank you to the Fox Theatre for providing the equipment and production team.

Fiber and Craft Festival

LA VETA— The much-loved Fiber and Craft Festival will be held in La Veta Saturday June 24 th from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. After scrambling several years in a row with inclement weather, we decided this year we will just plan everything indoors. It we have a beautiful Saturday; some Vendors may set up outside. Our indoor venues include La Veta Community Center (131 E. Ryus Ave.), La Veta Mercantile (300 S. Main) “the old title building” (225 S. Main) and the Capps Building at Francisco Fort Museum (306 S. Main) Once again, we have many great artists and vendors, such as Taos Wools and Mora Valley Spinning Mill. Come join us. Contact sdolak@hhfoundation.org for more information.

WHS Class of 1983 40th Reunion

WALSENBURG— The Walsenburg High School Class of 1983 will be having their 40th class reunion the weekend of June 23rd and 24th.
On Friday, June 23, 6:30 p.m. we’ll be having pizza and drinks at Silver Dollar. On Saturday, June 24 we’ll meet at the highschool at 1 p.m. for a school tour and bus ride around town. At 5:30 p.m. we’ll meet at the Walsenburg Golf Course for Dinner, Drinks and Dancing. Please contact Mary (Wells) Norby at 719-989-3926 for further details.

Register now for Vacation Bible School

WALSENBURG— Register now for Vacation Bible School happening Tuesday, June 27 – Friday, June 30, 5:30 – 8 p.m. at Praise Church inWalsenburg. For more information on how to register see our ad below.

Mud Bogs in La Veta

LA VETA— Come one, come all to the 20th anniversary of the La Veta Mud Bog, Saturday, July 1, in La Veta at the Fairgrounds. The spectator gate opens at 8am. Adults to 14 years of age $10, 5-13 years old
$5, and kids 5 and under free! Race begins at noon! The Huerfano County Fair Board will have mud bog t-shirts for sale! To enter contact Jerry Sporcich at 719-989-7257. Concessions will be provided by the Huerfano Highlanders 4-H Club from Gardner, Co. Also Sweet Treats Shaved Ice will be there with all of their summertime favorites!

First Chair Festival

CUCHARA— The First Chair Festival is on Saturday, July 1, 4 to 9 p.m. Join us at the Cuchara Mountain Mercantile for an evening of music, food, drinks, a silent auction, and more to raise money for Cuchara Mountain Park. 3 Bands with the Taylor Scott Band headlining and bringing their colorful hybrid of roots-rock, funk, soul, and troubadour-style Americana to Cuchara. Advance tickets are on sale at www.cucharamountainpark.org. $25 advance/$30 day of at the door.

LAS ANIMAS

Summer Reading Program – All Together Now

TRINIDAD— Join us this summer for our 2023 Summer Reading Program! We will have special guest readers, celebrate our community make some crafts, earn prizes and explore new worlds and adventures with a new book. The summer reading program is for ages 0-17. This summer we will be using a virtual platform, READSquared, to register, complete missions, track reading and have access to some fun games. Please go to Trinidadcpl.readsquared.com to register starting on May 29.

Street Closure – Moore’s Canyon Rd

TRINIDAD— Moore’s Canyon Road from Santa Fe Trail to Peak Street will be closed from June 12th to June 30th for a new gas line installation to add to infrastructure improvements throughout the City of Trinidad. Crews will be out starting June 5th to prep the road for construction and closure. Please slow down and pay attention, workers and flaggers will be on site and need your cooperation.

Kids Purgatoire Fish, Films & River Play Day

TRINIDAD— Join us Thursday, June 15, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. for the 2023 Kids Purgatoire Fish, Films & River Play Day where we will be learning about local fish biology and ecology, watching a cool educational fish film, and heading to the river to release young rainbow trout into their new home while getting to enjoy some water play time in the river! Plus free pizza lunch in between!
This is a free event! Wear your river play clothes and prepare to get wet!
Meet: 10 a.m. at Tri Peak Theaters, 3600 E Main St
We’ll kick off the day with a super cool film about fish and fishing! All attendees get free kids snack pack with drink and popcorn. Then we’ll head down to the Purgatoire River for more fish education, fish stocking, pizza lunch, and river play! Kids will go home with fish stickers and fish educational materials as well.

Clinical Skincare Grand Opening

TRINIDAD— Please join the Trinidad Las Animas Chamber for the Grand Opening on Thursday, June 15, 5 – 7 p.m. Clinical Skincare by Dariya will be opening at 401 W. Washington Ave. in Trinidad. Refreshments will be served and there will be a drawing for a free facial.

Friday Night Live at Trinidad Lake State Park

TRINIDAD— Every Friday Night beginning May 26th thru September 1st at 8 p.m. the park ranger/interpreter will present a program of interest to campers and the general public alike. Join us around the fire ring at the Trinidad Lake State Park amphitheater to get the latest in fishing activity, wildlife sightings and general information on hiking and biking in the area. The presentations will include an overview of the history and geology of the area and to make the most of your weekend outdoors. We provide the fire so bring your marshmallows for a fun evening under the stars.

Community Celebration at Sister Blandina Wellness Gardens

TRINIDAD— Sister Blandina Wellness Gardens is holding its rescheduled Community Celebration this Thursday, June 15, from 4:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Community Celebration was originally scheduled on June 2, but was postponed due to inclement weather. The event celebrates the public reopening of the Gardens earlier this month. Effective June 1, 2023, Sister Blandina Wellness Gardens is staffed Tuesday through Sunday, offering free Gardens admission for community members and visitors, apart from private and special events.

Pony Xpress  Gravel 160

TRINIDAD/COKEDALE— Since 2014 Colorado’s premier gravel event with 160K and 85K on June 17. Then optional 90K and 60k on June 18.  Come discover the challenges Pony Express riders faced in the 1860s. These earliest American racers sped across remote, desolate regions of America.  Join us at the Pony Xpress Gravel 160 to challenge your ability to think and plan under pressure. Success will require the ability to combine speed, endurance, clear-thinking, and dogged determination. For more information please visit Coloradogravelgrinderchampionshop.com

The Goathead Festival

TRINIDAD— Join us on Saturday, June 17, 8 a.m. at the Dog Park, 200 N. Linden Ave to pull goatheads. Then come back to Sexy Pizza 8 p.m. for a bonfire celebration. All volunteers get a slice of pizza and drink for their hardwork. There will be also games, prizes and local vendors!

5th Annual Make Art Fair

TRINIDAD— On Saturday, June 17, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Join the Art Council of Trinidad Presents for their 5th Annual Art Fair at the Trinidad History Museum. Rain or Shine, we’re ready for this year’s art fair! There will be 9 art projects available to participate in, supplies and instruction provided! All are welcome, all ages, all free.

Poetry Workshop

TRINIDAD— Saturday, June 17, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. State Historian Jared Orsi and Poet Jodie Hollander will be visiting the Trinidad History Museum to lead a 3-hour creative writing workshop inspired by the history and natural landscape and setting of the place. This workshop will begin with a tour of our Children of Ludlow exhibit in the Bloom Mansion, where Jared will provide some introductory historical context and lead a discussion with participants in responses to the exhibit. Jodie will then lead a brief poetry lesson and offer participants time to write and share their poetry.

Youth Benefit Event

TRINIDAD— Join the Las Animas County Republicans for their youth benefit event on Saturday, June 17, 4 – 9 p.m. at Fishers Peak RV Park. There will be a live band, pig roast, beer garden, games and a silent auction. Tickets are $10 and kids are free. 100% of the proceeds go to Las Animas County Livestock Auction.

History of the Santa Fe Trail through the eyes of an artist

TRINIDAD—  Saturday June 17, 7 p.m.  Doug has exhibited his work internationally, he’s been an educator, a television art director and an historical illustrator. A number of his paintings are part of the permanent collection on display at the National Santa Fe Trail Center in Larned, Kansas and the National Park Service has used his work in exhibits all along the Trail, from Missouri to New Mexico. Recently several of his paintings were selected to be exhibited at the Colorado State Capitol. Doug served as chairman of the Art Department at Trinidad State Junior College before his retirement in 2013. We are excited to welcome Doug and his wife Lori, an artist in her own right, as our guests at the lake’s amphitheater to share his images and insights into the rich history of the Santa Fe Trail.

VFD Auxiliary Flea Market

BONCARBO— Join the BonCarbo VFD Auxiliary on Saturday, June 24, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. for their annual Flea Market. The Market will be held at 14589 County Road 57.7. Tables are available for rent for $10, please call 719-846-8538 to reserve.

109th Annual Ludlow Memorial Service

LUDLOW— We are preparing to hold the Annual Ludlow service this year. The service will be held on Sunday, June 25, 10 a.m. ar the Ludlow Memorial Site. We are happy to announce our speakers for this years service. Our Keynote Speaker will be UMWA Internation Sect-Treas Brian Sanson. Also, UMWA D.-22 Internation V.P. Mike Dalpiaz and Executive Director of the Colorado AFL-CIO Dennis Dougherty will also be speaking. There will be BBQ to follow the ceremony. In memory of the men, women and children who lost their lives in freedom’s cause at Ludlow on April 20, 1914.

COLFAX
   
Farmers Market

CIMARRON— Come one, come all! The Cimarron Chamber is hosting the summer’s Farmers Market at the Village Park held on Saturdays now through Labor day from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. If you are interested in becoming a vendor please call 575-376-2417 or email cimarronnm@gmail.com

Capulin Volcano Ladybug Festival

CAPULIN— Friday, June 16 and Saturday, June 17, starting at 8 a.m. Each year we have thousands of lovely Convergent Lady beetles visit our Volcano as part of their migratory journey due to our abundance of plants and insects the lady beetles can consume. The eggs laid here will hatch later in the summer, overwinter, and then the next generation will make their way further south. Come join us at Capulin Volcano to celebrate their return! Two days full of fun lady beetle facts, facepainting, prizes, and chances to explore the beauty of Capulin Volcano.

Night sky viewing

CAPULIN— Saturday, June 17, 8:30 p.m. join us at Capulin Volcano National Monument. Follow the red lights from the Visitor Center to the observing area. It can get chilly so please wear warm clothing.

Angel Fire Balloon festival and street fair

ANGEL FIRE— We are closing down Bill Burgess Blvd a.k.a. North Angel Fire Rd. to have a street fair on Saturday, June 17, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.   After you enjoy the mass ascension of over 30 hot air balloons at Balloons Over Angel Fire, join us for Food, Fun, Arts & Crafts, Music, Mimosas & More! Check out the Balloon Festival too each morning over the weekend at the Angel Fire Airport. For more information please visit angelfirenm.gov.

Colfax Democrat meeting

COLFAX— The Democratic Party of Colfax County will meet on Saturday, June 17, 2 to 4 p.m. at Casa Lemus Restaurant, 350 Clayton Road, Raton. For more information email colfaxcountydemocrats@gmail.com.

Angel Fire Farmers Market

ANGEL FIRE— Come enjoy, shopping al fresco at the Angel Fire Resort Farmers Market. Every Sunday, 10 a.m. – 2p.m. until September 3. The market will bring you fresh produce, art and live music. Join the fun while shopping locally at Frontier Park, Mountain View BLVD, Angel Fire.

Summer Carnival

RATON— Join the fun at the annual Carnival in Raton, Friday, June 22 – Sunday, June 25 at the Raton High School. Tickets are $25 in advance and can be purchased at In Bank in Raton and Trinidad. Tickets at the door are $35.

Sloat Prince Foundation Scholarship for Colfax County graduates

COLFAX— The Sloat-Prince Foundation offers scholarships to graduates of Colfax County public or private high schools and to current Colfax County residents who may have graduated from high school elsewhere.  This includes public, private, charter, parochial or home school graduates.
To be considered for this scholarship, applicants must be enrolled in an accredited college/university, or a vocational, trade or business school.  New recipient applications, including official transcripts of all semesters, must be received by the foundation board on or before June 15, 2023.  Applications are now available by emailing umwaroy@bacavalley.com or by contacting your school’s administration or guidance counselor.

Upcoming Events for June 8th 2023

HUERFANO

RSVP now for the John Mall High School Class of 1981 Reunion, and get a tour of the new high school building

WALSENBURG— The great class of 1981 is holding a reunion this summer on Friday, June 30 through Saturday July 1 in Walsenburg.   Cocktails and Conversations will be from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Whistle Stop Lofts at 408 Russell Street.
On Saturday, come to a Hoedown BBQ at the Eagles, 614 Main featuring cocktails at 5 p.m., dinner at 6 p.m. and music and dancing from 7 p.m. on.   Wear western attire to enter a drawing for a prize.
Other activities for the weekend are now being organized, including bowling and potentially, a ‘Thanks For All The Memories’ tour of John Mall High School, which will be torn down next year, as well as a site visit of the new high school which will open next January.
Please let Sandy Montoya-Foster know if you are coming by emailing her at
sandi_diva_foster@hotmail.com

Dorcas Circle not accepting donations currently, take them to  PALS in Trinidad

WALSENBURG — Dorcas Circle is not currently accepting any donations at this time. Please bring clean, gently used and in working order to PALS at 500 W. Main St, Trinidad. For more information on what they accept please call 719-680-0525 or email  PALSofTrinidad@gmail.com
Dorcas Circle will be open on Tuesdays and Fridays. We will no longer be open on Thursdays.

Francisco Fort open

LA VETA— The Francisco Fort in La Veta is open for the season. Hours are 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. For more information on the Fort and summer events go to www.franciscofort.org  There is no admission fee and all events at the Fort this summer are free and open to the public.

Farmers market season is here

HUERFANO— It’s that time of year again! Get ready for a wonderful season filled with lots of local goodies grown, supplied, crafted and for purchase. La Veta will have their market every Thursday, 3-5 p.m. starting May 18th in the park next to the library on Main St. Cuchara will have their market on Fridays starting May 19, from 4 – 6 p.m. at the Cuchara Mountain Mercantile. Gardner will have their markets every Saturday, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. under the pavilion next to the Methodist church. Last but most certainly not least is Walsenburg’s market held every Sunday at Heritage Park on Main St. near the railroad tracks from 12 – 2 p.m. starting May 29. For more information and to become a vendor please email costeawood1@gmail.com.

Western Rendezvous Art Show

LA VETA— Artists working in all media are encouraged to enter the upcoming Western Rendezvous show at the SPACe Gallery in La Veta. Original art will be accepted today, Thursday, June 8, Friday, June 9, and Saturday, June 10 at the gallery, 132 W. Ryus, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. There will be a $500 prize for 1st place in this annual juried and judged show.   The entry form may be downloaded from the SPACe website, spanishpeaksarts.org and will be available at the gallery. Call 719 742-3074 for more information.

Let’s Talk Walsenburg

WALSENBURG— Please join us for a kick off celebration and conversation about the upcoming Museum on Mainstreet Exhibit on Thursday, June 8, 1 p.m. at MoF. The final exhibit will that will be hosted by the Museum of Friends will run from August 26, 2023 to October 9, 2023. This is an opportunity to learn more about this special exhibit that will be in Walsenburg and to talk about the experiences of people in Walsenburg as part of rural America. Lunch will be served.

Free bicycle repair clinic

LA VETA—  Thursday June 8, 2 – 5 p.m. Spanish Peaks Cycling Bicycle Repair Clinic. Bring your bikes and trikes, we will fix for free! In front of the La Veta Public Library, 310 S Main St. Donations welcome. Questions please email info@spcycling.org

Indoor rummage sale fundraiser

LA VETA— Join us at Christ the King Catholic Church, Main Street, La Veta on Friday & Saturday,  June 9 & 10, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. The rummage sale is hosted by St. Ann’s Guild. There will be a lot of new & pre-owned items!

Shad Murib at Walsenburg Merc

WALSENBURG— The chairman of the Colorado Democrats, Shad Murib, will be in Walsenburg this Friday, June 9,  9 a.m. at the Walsenburg Mercantile. Join the Huerfano Dems in learning about “The 546 Project”.

Fridays For Fun: Art for the Young Human Being

LA VETA— The La Veta School of the Arts is pleased to announce our first class in the summer program, Fridays For Fun on June 9, from 1 – 3 p.m. Well-known educator and artist Sharona Whitley will teach Sandpainting for students aged 6 and older (younger, with adult supervision). All classes take place at LVSA, across from the park in La Veta. Go to thelvsa.org website for more information. Early registration reduces the fee from $10 to $5 per student, per class. To pre-register, you may use the website, or you may call 719.742.3421.

SPLD’s Flicks at the Library

WALSENBURG— Friday, June 9, at 1:30 p.m. Join us at Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg for this month’s movie, Jurassic Park starring… Dinosaurs, T-Rex and velociraptors!  Join us for this fun and suspense-filled movie with FREE popcorn and books! BYOB.

Historic Preservation Committee thank you reception

LA VETA— The La Veta HPC is hosting a Thank You Reception for all town residents on Friday, June
9 from 4 – 7 p.m. at the La Veta Mercantile; refreshments will be provided! This Reception honors La Veta citizens’ commitment to the historic foundation of our town, and the economic resource that is our Historic District. There will be an awards ceremony to present three National Register plaques to building owners, historians and historic tax credit experts will be on hand, and several other local organizations will join us to discuss current good news projects taking place in La Veta.

Spanish Peaks 5/10K Run

LA VETA— Saturday, June 10, 8:30 – 11 a.m. Choose from 5K, out and back course; bring your dog!  Start at Francisco Fort Capps Building, run to Grandote Peaks and Back. Refreshments and awards! Registration information at https://twopeaksfitness.org/running-events. Two Peaks Fitness, 719-742-3555.

Open Garden at GVS

GARDNER— All summer long, the vegetable and flower gardens at the Gardner Valley School will be open to the public on Saturday mornings from
9 – 11 a.m. We invite you to join us to plant, weed, water, learn, share in early produce, feed the birds and have fun. So, grab your hats and sunscreen and come on down, everyone is welcome.

Arvel Bird comes to Huerfano

HUERFANO— Arvel Bird’s “Celtic Indian” brand is a reflection of his mixed-blood American Indian and Celtic heritages. With his violin, fiddle, Native flutes and Irish whistles, Arvel weaves a powerful tapestry of music and stories.   Come meet Arvel at the Francisco Fort Museum on Saturday, June 10, 11 a.m. later he will perform in an unforgettable concert at 7 p.m. at the La Veta Mercantile. Then the special gift he is offering is an up close and personal event with attendance limited to 25 on Sunday, June 11, 1 p.m. in the Lathrop Park Conference Center to share his knowledge and passion about Totem Animals. This is an amazing experience to be able to offer locally. Please RSVP Sandy Dolak to save your space: sdolak@hhfoundation.org or text: 719-251-1271

Sangre de Cristo Pass Tour

WALSENBURG— The Huerfano County Historical Society is sponsoring a tour of the historic Sangre de Cristo Pass, also known as the Taos Trail, on Saturday, June 10th. This year the tour will follow in part the path of the 1853 Gunnison Expedition, builders of the first wagon road over the pass. We will also have stops at the pioneer settlement of St. Mary’s on the Huerfano River and at the Montoya homestead at Farasita, originally known as Fort Talpa. We will meet at the Walsenburg Mining Museum at 9 a.m. Bring water and lunch and allow 4-6 hours for the tour. Cost is $20 per person and $30 for families. For reservations call the Huerfano Heritage Center at 719-738-2346 or email us at huerfanoheritagecenter@outlook.com.

Cuchara Chapel services

CUCHARA— Featured pastor at the Cuchara Chapel for June 11 is Dr. Don Pike of the United Methodist Church.  Services are at 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.  Go to CucharaChapel.org.

Live Music, Art and Games at The Parkside Art Gallery and Café

LA VETA— Sunday, June 11, 1 – 2:30 p.m. join us at the Parkside Art Gallery and Cafe, 127 W.Ryus Ave., La Veta, for Live Music by Michael Steward, board games and fun.

Call for singers

LA VETA— There’s still time to join the Sangre de Cristo Vocal Arts Ensemble as we prepare for our summer-season concert, scheduled for late August. We rehearse on Tuesdays, at 6:15 p.m., at the La Veta United Methodist Church, 416 S. Main Street in La Veta.  If you’ve been wanting to sing with us but just haven’t been sure how to take that first step, here’s your opportunity to come and get your feet wet. Come join us.   Please call 719-742-5333 if you have any questions.

Weekly wildflower & weed walks
– UPDATED-

LA VETA—  Wildflowers, along with edible, medicinal, useful, and dangerous wild plants are popping! Learn how to ID what is what. Gentle one hour nature walks led every Wednesday, from 5 to 6 p.m. by local interpretive naturalist Bob Kennemer. Cost $5.00 per person. Class size limited to 10. Spring schedule:  June 7 in/near La Veta. June 14, 21, 28 in/near Cuchara Village. Handouts included. Pre Registration required 24 hours in advance, and to learn more, email Bob at: bobkennemer@gmail.com

Pioneer Day at Francisco Fort Museum

LA VETA— Wednesday, June 14, 10 a.m – 12 p.m.  La Veta Library and Francisco Fort Museum are pairing up for a morning of old fashioned fun for kids and families. We will have live animals, a tractor, leather stamping, butter making and more! Story time begins at 10 a.m. on the lawn outside the museum. Museum activities follow afterwards. For more info go to LVPL.org, email stephanie@lvpl.org or call 719-742-3572.

Twice Loved Critters

WALSENBURG— Join a special group of ladies on Wednesday, June 14, at 1 p.m. at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg to help get our “stuffed” critters ready for the “All Together Now” Teddy Bear Picnic that will be on June 29th at the Library. We are adding special touches to upcycled stuff toys to share with kiddos as “Reading Buddies”. All are welcome to join the fun.
Contact Sandy Johnston: 719-989-8438 for more information! A Huajatolla Heritage Foundation project.

American Legion Post 16 Meeting

WALSENBURG— The Brian T. Chiquette Post 16 of The American Legion will have their monthly meeting on Wednesday, June 14, 6 p.m. at the Walsenburg Housing Authority Office, 220 Russell Ave. in Walsenburg. The Veterans Trust Fund (Veterans helping Veterans) is underway and you can find out more about this program at the meeting. For information, this program will end this month. All Veterans are invited and encouraged to attend the meeting. We will be discussing future activities for the Post. If you have any questions, please call Dave Rogers 719-738-9965.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

HUERFANO— Thursday, June 15 is World Abuse Awareness Day. The Huerfano County Department of Human Services Adult Protection team asks that you wear purple on Tuesday, June 15 in support of this day.

SPLD Presents the Friends of the Library Book Sale

WALSENBURG— Join the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg on Thursday, June 15th and Friday, June 16th from 10 – 3 p.m.  Come check out our awesome collection of donated books for sale at low prices!  Proceeds help the Friends support our library.

Cornhole for Relay for Life

WALSENBURG— Huerfano Cornhole is hosting a fundraising game for Relay for life on Saturday, June 17, check-in is at 10 a.m. at the Huerfano County Community Center in Walsenburg. Register on the Scoreholio app or in person. There will be concessions for purchase, raffles, mystery bags, and knockout competition too.

Nerd Trivia! with La Veta Public Library

LA VETA— Join LVPL at Mountain Merman Brewery at 220 S. Main, on Monday, June 19, 6 p.m. for Nerd Trivia. There is no charge to participate in trivia. Great prizes donated by Mountain Merman Brewery! Want to host a library event at your business? We want to hear from you, info@lvpl.org

Experimental Drawing and Painting at LVSA

LA VETA— LVSA presents Peggy Zehring’s fun, abstract, experimental drawing and painting one week or two week class which will be happening at The La Veta School of the Arts in La Veta, from Monday, June 19 through Friday, June 23, and Monday, June 26 through Friday, June 30.  All levels of experience are welcome.  Cost is $375.00 a week.  For more information or to register call 719-742-3421, or e-mail LVArtSchool@yahoo.com or register online at www.theLVSA.org

Volunteer Fair

WALSENBURG— Looking for a new volunteer opportunity? We would like to invite community member to join us in connecting with local nonprofit and public service organizations. It’s the perfect time for agencies to share available volunteer opportunities and for lour local population to seek our new areas of interest for volunteerism. Join us for theis FREE first-time ever event at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg on Wednesday, June 21, 3 – 6 p.m.

Register now for Vacation Bible School

WALSENBURG— Register now for Vacation Bible School happening Tuesday, June 27 – Friday, June 30, 5:30 – 8 p.m. at Praise Church in Walsenburg. For more information on how to register see our ad below.

LAS ANIMAS

Summer Reading Program – All Together Now

TRINIDAD— Join us this summer for our 2023 Summer Reading Program! We will have special guest readers, celebrate our community make some crafts, earn prizes and explore new worlds and adventures with a new book. The summer reading program is for ages 0-17. This summer we will be using a virtual platform, READSquared, to register, complete missions, track reading and have access to some fun games. Please go to Trinidadcpl.readsquared.com to register starting on May 29.

Plant ID and collection workshop

TRINIDAD— Join the Purgatoire Watershed on Friday, June 9, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. at USDA-NRCS Service Center for their Plant ID and Collection Workshop. Workshop, lunch, and plant press materials are free of charge thanks to sponsorship from the Spanish Peaks-Purgatoire River Conservation District and a grant obtained b the Purgatoire Watershed Partnership. For more information please visit www.facebook.com/purgatoirewatershedpartnership

Community Open House

TRINIDAD— Friday, June 9, 2 – 6 p.m. the Trinidad History Museum, 312 East Main St., is hosting a community open house. There will be food, beverages, hands on activities, interactive information booths and family friendly fun. Learn about the work we are doing at museum and through out Southern Colorado and more!

Pieces from the Santa Fe Trail

TRINIDAD— The Trinidad Carnegie Public Library is excited to host a book signing for Melva Nolan on Friday, June 9, from 4 – 6 p.m., upstairs in the library’s main room. Melva is a dedicated quilter, and hosts her own blog, MelvaLovesScraps. She has written a new book, pieces from the Santa Fe Trail: The story of Marion Sloan Russell’s journey on the Santa Fe Trail and her life told through a quilt.

Friday Night Live at Trinidad Lake State Park

TRINIDAD— Every Friday Night beginning May 26th thru September 1st at 8 p.m. the park ranger/interpreter will present a program of interest to campers and the general public alike. Join us around the fire ring at the Trinidad Lake State Park amphitheater to get the latest in fishing activity, wildlife sightings and general information on hiking and biking in the area. The presentations will include an overview of the history and geology of the area and to make the most of your weekend outdoors. We provide the fire so bring your marshmallows for a fun evening under the stars.

Santa Fe Trail Days

TRINIDAD— Santa Fe Trail Days is a well-loved festival of downtown Trinidad since 1982. It is back again, bigger and better than ever, with activities for both your family and friends. Santa Fe Trail Days will be held Friday and Saturday, June 9th and 10th.

2nd Saturday Trail Work Days

TRINIDAD— Support your local trails this Saturday, June 10, 10 a.m. and help maintain the Wormhole loop and start a new kids loop at Trinidad Lake State Park. All levels of experience welcome. Tools and snacks are provided but please bring your own water, gloves and sunscreen. Meet at the trail head of the Wormhole Loop to get started.

American Legion Post 11 veterans fish fry

TRINIDAD— The American Legion Post 11 will host the Third Annual Southern Fish Fry featuring a Fresh Gulf Shrimp and Fish on Saturday June 10,  11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Fort Wootton Veterans’ Memorial Square, with all the proceeds/donations to go directly support the operation and maintenance of Fort Wootton Veterans Memorial Square for use by the Veterans and Community of Trinidad and Las Animas County.

Youth Orchestra performance

TRINIDAD— Mt. Carmel presents their youth orchestra on Saturday, June 10, 11:30 a.m. They will be preforming at the Fort Wootton Veteran’s Memorial Square, 204 S. Chesnut, Trinidad.

Open Mic for all Literary Souls

TRINIDAD— The Corazón de Trinidad Creative District Announces Second Saturdays – Open Mic for all Literary Souls is returning for 2023! The series is hosted by the Creative District on the Second Saturday of the month at The Commons Space to Create, 218 West Main St. Join us Saturday, June 10, 7 p.m. the evening will begin with a featured writer; the microphone then opens to all who would like to share their creative literary efforts. This event is free and open to the public.

Wildlife Photography

TRINIDAD— Saturday, June 10, 7 p.m.   Join us at the Park Visitor Center for a conversation with wildlife photographer Mike Rearden as he shares his passion for wildlife and photography. Mike came to Colorado from Wales in 1994 and only recently moved to the Trinidad area where in a very short time has developed a large following for his wildlife photos. He will be sharing some of his favorite images and some of the techniques that have led to his successes in wildlife photography.

Street Closure – Moore’s Canyon Rd

TRINIDAD— Moore’s Canyon Road from Santa Fe Trail to Peak Street will be closed from June 12th to June 30th for a new gas line installation to add to infrastructure improvements throughout the City of Trinidad. Crews will be out starting June 5th to prep the road for construction and closure. Please slow down and pay attention, workers and flaggers will be on site and need your cooperation.

Philosophy Café: Ethics of care

TRINIDAD— On the second Monday of every month, the library hosts a Philosophy Café. Join us Monday, June 12,  5 p.m. everyone is welcome to join in to a discussion based on a given topic. The topic for June is Ethics of care, and The Care Manifesto. Susanne van der Meer chose this topic, and she has provided some explanation and links to more information below. This will be a remote meeting via Zoom Meeting, and you must register to join.  https://bit.ly/3OCxPHr

5th Annual Make Art Fair

TRINIDAD— On Saturday, June 17, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Join the Art Council of Trinidad Presents for thier 5th Annual Art Fair at the Trinidad History Museum. Rain or Shine, we’re ready for this year’s art fair! There will be 9 art projects available to participate in, supplies and instruction provided! All are welcome, all ages, all free.

Poetry Workshop

TRINIDAD— Saturday, June 17, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. State Historian Jared Orsi and Poet Jodie Hollander will be visiting the Trinidad History Museum to lead a 3-hour creative writing workshop inspired by the history and natural landscape and setting of the place. This workshop will begin with a tour of our Children of Ludlow exhibit in the Bloom Mansion, where Jared will provide some introductory historical context and lead a discussion with participants in responses to the exhibit. Jodie will then lead a brief poetry lesson and offer participants time to write and share their poetry.

COLFAX
   
Public Meeting for Yankee Mine Safeguarding Project

RATON— The Abandoned Mine Land (AML) Program invites you to a public meeting for the proposed safeguarding of the former Yankee Mine, including County Road A-25, located 8 miles northeast of Raton, NM. The meeting will be held on Thursday, June 8, 5:30 – 7 p.m. at the Arthur Johnson Memorial Library, Raton. For more information please visit www.RatonCalendar.com.

Swimming Pool Opening Day

SPRINGER— Join us on Friday, June 9, starting at 9 a.m. as the Springer Swimming Pool welcomes everyone for another summer of splashing fun! Opening day is free for everyone, bring the whole family. For swimming passes, pool parties, swim lessons and more information call city hall at 575-483-2682.

Santa Fe Trail Museum Arts & Crafts Festival

SPRINGER— Bring your arts and crafts and join us for a fun day in Springer. Saturday, June 10, 9 a.m. -2 p.m. at the Springer Museum Park, 602 Maxwell Ave, vendors please begin setting up at 7 a.m. There will also have music by JD’s DJ entertainment.

Farmers Market

CIMARRON— Come one, come all! The Cimarron Chamber is hosting the summer’s Farmers Market at the Village Park held on Saturdays now through Labor day from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. If you are interested in becoming a vendor please call 575-376-2417 or email cimarronnm@gmail.com

New Mexico Impressions Collection-Reception

RATON— The Raton Museum is honored to host the event for Bernard Sandoval, New Mexico Impressions Collection. The reception will take place on Saturday, June 10th, 2 – 4 p.m. at the Raton Museum, 108 South 2nd St.

Trivia night with FCCLA

RATON— Anyone love trivia? If so, join our Raton High School FCCLA Trivia night on Saturday, June 10, 6 – 8 p.m. $10 for a meal ticket that includes a hamburger, chips and a drink. All proceeds go to the FCCLA.

Night sky viewing

CAPULIN— Saturday, June 10 and Saturday, June 17, 8:30 p.m. join us at Capulin Volcano National Monument. Follow the red lights from the Visitor Center to the observing area. It can get chilly so please wear warm clothing.

Vacation Bible School

CIMARRON— Cimarron Methodist Church is hosting  Vacation Bible School Monday, June 12th – Friday, June 16th, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. VBS is for children 5 years -13 years old. Registration will be at 8:30 a.m. at Cimarron Methodist Church.

Living Awareness Celebration

RATON— Join Local Collaborative 8 on Wednesday, June 14, starting at 9 a.m. for a day full of celebrating Living Awareness. Held at the Raton Convention Center, the day starts out with the Veteran Color Guard. K-Bob’s is providing lunch and there will be guest speakers and music entertainment.

Capulin Volcano Ladybug Festival

CAPULIN— Friday, June 16 and Saturday, June 17, starting at 8 a.m. Each year we have thousands of lovely Convergent Lady beetles visit our Volcano as part of their migratory journey due to our abundance of plants and insects the lady beetles can consume. The eggs laid here will hatch later in the summer, overwinter, and then the next generation will make their way further south. Come join us at Capulin Volcano to celebrate their return! Two days full of fun lady beetle facts, facepainting, prizes, and chances to explore the beauty of Capulin Volcano.

Angel Fire Balloon festival and street fair

ANGEL FIRE— We are closing down Bill Burgess Blvd a.k.a. North Angel Fire Rd. to have a street fair on Saturday, June 17, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.   After you enjoy the mass ascension of over 30 hot air balloons at Balloons Over Angel Fire, join us for Food, Fun, Arts & Crafts, Music, Mimosas & More! Check out the Balloon Festival too each morning over the weekend at the Angel Fire Airport. For more information please visit angelfirenm.gov.

Colfax Democrat meeting

COLFAX— The Democratic Party of Colfax County will meet on Saturday, June 17, 2 to 4 p.m. at Casa Lemus Restaurant, 350 Clayton Road, Raton. For more information email colfaxcountydemocrats@gmail.com.

Sloat Prince Foundation Scholarship for Colfax County graduates

COLFAX— The Sloat-Prince Foundation offers scholarships to graduates of Colfax County public or private high schools and to current Colfax County residents who may have graduated from high school elsewhere.  This includes public, private, charter, parochial or home school graduates.
To be considered for this scholarship, applicants must be enrolled in an accredited college/university, or a vocational, trade or business school.  New recipient applications, including official transcripts of all semesters, must be received by the foundation board on or before June 15, 2023.  Applications are now available by emailing umwaroy@bacavalley.com or by contacting your school’s administration or guidance counselor.