HUERFANO
SPLD Library Sign Art Contest
WALSENBURG– The Spanish Peaks Public Library is looking for one lucky student from Walsenburg Jr/Sr High School to design our new big library sign that will be placed in front of the library! Look on our Facebook page for all the details. Contest runs through the end of April.
The Ideal to Reality:
The Schism between
Renaissance and Baroque Art
LA VETA– On Thursday, April 11 at 2 p.m., join the La Veta Library, 310 S. Main St. for a presentation by Rebecca Myers “ The Ideal to Reality: The Schism between Renaissance and Baroque Art”. By comparing the artistic representations of the Renaissance versus the Baroque Art Periods, we will visually see the exciting transition from the calm and intellectual art of the Renaissance to the realistic, sometimes harsh energetic style of the Baroque. We will contrast the lives and work of artists such as Michelangelo, Raphael and Leonardo da Vinci to the Baroque artists such as Caravaggio and Bernini. There will be a discussion of artistic style and intent in relation to the influential importance of the social, historic and religious events of the time.
Book Dragons Book Club
WALSENBURG— Every Friday at 5 p.m. join the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg for their Book Dragons Book Club. To join, stop by the library or call us at 719-738-2774 to reserve a book for you.
Beautifying Walsenburg on Global Good Deeds Day
WALSENBURG– Join Spark the Change Colorado in Beautifying Walsenburg on Global Good Deeds Day! We will meet at Heritage Park on Sunday, April 14, 1 p.m. where we will split into teams that will go off and help out cleaning up local parks, preparing the Growing Life Community Garden for the planting season, and doing some spring cleaning along Main Street. Celebrate Global Volunteer Month by giving a bit of your time to our wonderful community. Hope to see you there!
La Veta Writes ~ Monthly Writing Group
LA VETA– Are you a longtime writer or interested in making writing or journaling a bigger part of your life and looking for fun, kind support? All are welcome! We’d love to have you join us at the monthly gathering of La Veta Writes, Monday, April 15 from 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at The La Veta Public Library. (We meet on the 3rd Monday of each month.) If you would like to practice reading your work aloud, bring along 1-2 pages (always optional). This is a free gathering sponsored by the La Veta Creative District & Colorado Creative Industries, LaVetaCreativeDisrict.org. For more info or to be put on our email list, please email info@lavetacreativedistrict.org.
Gardner Potluck and Social
GARDNER– Join us at the Gardner Community Center Wednesday, April 17, 5 p.m. for our monthly potluck and community gathering. Come and share a meal with your neighbors, make new friends, and stay for some fun! Supper and speakers from 5:30 to 6:30, followed by door prizes and table games. For more information contact Gail at 720-383-5579.
Preschool Screening
LA VETA– Please join the La Veta Preschool on Friday, April 19, 8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. for their Preschool screening event at the La Veta School, 200 E Stadium Dr. A reminder that children must be 4 years old by June 1, 2024, to be considered for Pre-Kindergarten or 5 years old by June 1, 2024, to be considered for Kindergarten. If your child will be 3 years old by June 1, 2024, they can be placed on a waiting list. For more information call: 719-742-6442 or email Dr. Haralson at: cynthiaharalson@lvk12.org or see the ad on page 4
Lathrop Tree planting and clean-up day
WALSENBURG– Give some love to the Earth that loves you by planting native trees and picking up litter around the Lathrop State Park on Saturday, April 20, 9 a.m. We will be meeting at the Visitors Center for a safety briefing. Please bring your own water, gloves, sun protection, and wear clothes for working outside. Park staff will provide shovels, spades, other tools as needed, and of course, LUNCH! Please register at https://cpwconnect.state.co.us/
Earth Day Clean-up
LA VETA– Join the La Veta Earth Day Clean-up on Saturday, April 20, 9 – 11 a.m. We will meet at the Town’s recycling bins on E. Ryus Ave. La Veta Trails will provide bags for trash and buckets for recycling.
Mother Jones Fundraiser Dinner
WALSENBURG– Tickets are on sale now for the Huerfano Democrats annual Mother Jones
Fundraising Dinner and silent auction. The event will be held on Saturday, April 20 at the Huerfano County Community Center in Walsenburg. Colorado Secretary of State, Jena Griswold will be the guest speaker with other local and state dignitaries expected to attend. Mother Jones (a.k.a. Carolyn Newman) will also be part of the program. Tickets are forty dollars each and can be purchased on-line at www.huerfanodems.com or contact Dems chairman, Larry Patrick at 719-859-2701 in Walsenburg, Eleanor Foley in LaVeta or Event Chair, Danielle Goodrich in Gardner at www.events.huerfanodems@gmail.com. If you have a silent auction item or gift certificate to donate, call Larry Patrick.
Flamingo Storytime
WALSENBURG– The next Flamingo Storytime is Sunday, April 21, 2 – 3 p.m. at the Walsenburg Mercantile. It’s a VERY special cookie decorating, food themed storytime! The FBC is partnering with Gub Gubs, the Walsenburg Mercantile, and the Huajatolla Heritage Foundation to help create a Huerfano Cookbook, with a kid’s section!
An Afternoon of Poetry
LA VETA– An Afternoon of Poetry in honor of National Poetry Month will be held Sunday, April 21, 3 – 5 p.m. at Tom Doerk’s home, 120 W. Grand, La Veta. Bring poems to read your own or other Favorites!. More information: Tom 719 -742-3776 Robin 719-742-3398.
Comedy Night at the Stokehouse
WALSENBURG– On Sunday, April 21 6 p.m. the Stokehouse in Walsenburg will be hosting a comedy night with Rio Hillman. This will be his first time Rio has performed in the area and he’s looking forward to it. He’ll be working the material for his album recording show in May. This event is free to attend and will be adults 21 + only.
Community Contra Dance
LA VETA– Join the Community Contra Dance on Wednesday, April 24, 6 – 8 p.m. at the La Veta Mercantile. Contra Dancing is fun for all ages with lively music, good people and great times! Suggested Cash or Venmo Donation: Students $5.00, Adults $10.00, 12 and under FREE. Maximum $20 per family. Funds go for music, caller, communications, and other expenses. Watching, listening and visiting with people are at no charge.
Chamber meet and greet
WALSENBURG– The Huerfano County Chamber of Commerce will have a meet and greet at the Walsenburg Mercantile, 408 Russell St, Walsenburg on Thursday, April 25, 5 – 7 p.m.
SPLD Nature Poetry Contest
WALSENBURG– In honor of Poetry and Gardening Month, the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg will be hosting two poetry contests, one for kids and one for adults. Entries will be published and made into a library book and the top three winners will be invited to read their poetry at the Poetry Party at the beginning of May. Contest ends April 26. Send entries to sharonaspld@gmail.com.
2nd Annual Crown Lanes Relay for Life Tournament
WALSENBURG– Roar Relay for Life is having their 2nd Annual 9 Pin No Tap Tournament at Crown Lanes in Walsenburg on Saturday, April 27, 1 p.m. The cost is $20 per person, shoes included. Please Register beforehand by calling Kendra Doherty at 719-680-0693. This is a Relay for Life fundraiser, come bowl and fight back against cancer at the same time.
LAS ANIMAS
Coffee & Conversations
TRINIDAD— Join us at the Bloom Mansion each first Friday of the month at 8 – 10 a.m. Come and enjoy free coffee and tea in the Bloom Mansion for conversation with your neighbors. These mornings provide space for community gathering and sharing. Join us to meet the current interim site manager and share your ideas, questions, and memories! For more information stop in to the Trinidad History Museum or email Trinidad_History_Museum@state.co.us
Animal Shelter volunteer day
TRINIDAD– Our city animal shelter is in need of YOUR help! We are looking for dedicated volunteers to lend a hand in leveling pea gravel and erecting 15 brand new kennels for our furry friends who are waiting for their forever homes. Whether you’re a seasoned handyman or simply have a heart full of love for animals, we would greatly appreciate your help in making our shelter a comfortable and safe space for our beloved pets.
If you have some free time and a willingness to make a difference, please join us on Saturday, April 13, 9 a.m. at The City of Trinidad Animal Shelter located at 1921 E. Main St. Trinidad to help us with this exciting project! Together, we can create a better environment for our shelter animals.
Low-Cost Vaccine Clinic
TRINIDAD– On Saturday, April 13, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. bring your furry friends over to the Las Animas County Fairgrounds for the PALS low-cost vaccine clinic. Only $5 per shot and nail trims are $5 – $10. This is a walk-in event, no appointment needed but is first come first served. Sponsored by Markie Davis with State Farm.
Community Conversations with the Trinidad History Museum
TRINIDAD– Starting in April, History Colorado’s Trinidad History Museum is holding a series of public events designed to solicit input and feedback from the Trinidad community to inform the future of the Museum. These events are part of History Colorado’s ongoing efforts to connect with the communities it serves across the Centennial State and are a chance for the Trinidad community to shape the trajectory of the community’s museum! In April this series will include:
A review of initial landscape concepts and planned investments, such as heritage garden beds, accessible paths, water-tolerant plants, and a new horno will be held on Saturday, April 13, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the Trinidad History Museum
2nd Saturday Trail Work
TRINIDAD– Join Trinidad Trails Alliance every second Saturday of the month to help build and maintain trails around Trinidad. This month they will be working out at Reilly Canyon to finally kick off TTA spring trail work on Saturday, April, 13, 10 a.m. Meet at the parking area at the main campground. For more information on each month’s meetup, follow Trinidad Trails group on Facebook or the Trinidad Trails Alliance social media pages. www.facebook.com/groups/trinidadtrails/
Main Street LIVE Fundraiser
TRINIDAD– Join the progressive dinner caravan through the streets of Trindad while supporting Main Street LIVE, your local theater on Saturday, April 13, 6 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets please visit www.MainStreeLIVE.com
Royal Summit at Space to Create
TRINIDAD– Join small businesses from across the Eastern Plains as they come together to hone their business skills, discover new business practices, and connect with peers and topic matter experts on Thursday, April 18, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. The East Colorado SBDC brings you a day full of inspiration, education, and networking as you look forward to charting the future of your business. Hosted by East Colorado SBDC
“Shootout at Sadie’s Saloon”
TRINIDAD– A Marvelous Melodrama opens at Main Street LIVE on April 19 “Shootout at Sadie’s Saloon”. This runs from Friday, April 19 to Sunday April 28. Time for laughter, tears and gun-slinging as this play hits the stage. Fridays & Saturdays at 7 p.m. Sundays at 2 p.m. Main Street LIVE is located at 131 W. Main Street. Please call 719-846-4765 for more information.
2024 State of the Purgatoire
TRINIDAD– Please join us Saturday April 20, 9 a.m. for our 2024 State of the Purgatoire Conference at the Hilton Garden Inn, 201 Americana Rd. Come learn about how our water works, when our river flows, and the state of our watershed – including wildlife populations, our forested headwaters, river enhancements, ecological health and water quality, and the 2024 weather outlook! Registration is FREE but required. To register go please visit
https://stateofthepurgatoire.eventbrite.com
Spring Arts and Crafts Market
TRINIDAD– Mt. Carmel will be hosting a Spring Market on Saturday, April 20, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. at 911 Robinson Ave in Trinidad. There will be handmade crafts, unique items and herbal products. Emily’s kitchen will also be open for eats! If you are interested in being a vendor please call Noreen at 719-845-4875 for more information.
Robot Ride
TRINIDAD– Join the ride on Saturday, April 20, 11 a.m. The Robot Ride is hosted by SlowRide, at Moose’s Social Club and Martini Bar, 308 W. Main, Trinidad. We want to see your best robot costume rolling through town on 2 wheels! Please note that any time an event starts at an establishment we will be spending about an hour there supporting them and the actual ride will start an hour after the event time!
April book club meeting
TRINIDAD– Join the Trinidad History Museum in the Bloom Mansion for our April Book Club meeting on Saturday, April, 20 11 a.m. We’ll be discussing the book Coal People by Rick J. Clyne. For more info or to sign up, email Millie at emily.duren@state.co.us.
Out of Bounds Fest
TRINIDAD– The Out of Bounds 420 fest will be Saturday, April 20, 3 – 10 p.m. at the Trinidad Central Park, 700 Smith Ave. Stop by the fest to meet your favorite brands, get swag and coupons. There will be amazing food, great music and a vibe unlike any other! The event is free to attend and it’s for 21+.
Brick City Roller Derby Spring Fever
TRINIDAD– Fort Wooten is the place to be on Saturday, April 20, 4 p.m. for the Spring Fever Brick City Roller Derby day! Doors open at 3 p.m. and tickets can be purchased at the door or at JM Tire in Trinidad. A portion of ticket proceeds benefit the Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center in Trinidad.
Rails to Trails to get outside
TRINIDAD– Every year, the Rails to Trails Conservancy partners with a variety of organizations; trail managers, community groups, agencies, nonprofits, businesses, brands, clubs and beyond, to inspire people to get outside on this annual day to celebrate their local trails. Trinidad Trails Alliance is hosting a casual local meetup to get outside, meet like minded folks, and enjoy our local trails at the Wormhole on Friday, April 26, 9 a.m. We’ll have some RTC swag, beverages, and snacks, and we’ll share some information about what TTA is working on this spring and summer.
Free Dump Day
TRINIDAD– Free Dump Day at Trinidad Landfill is on Saturday, April 27, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. Items that we normally don’t accept, Tires, and Electronics are not part of Free Dump Day and will be subject to normal pricing. All loads must be tied down or taped or you will be charged. The Trinidad Landfill is located at 2401 N State St, Trinidad.
Hands-On History Family day
TRINIDAD– Learn all about some amazing animals during the Hands-On History Family day Saturday, April 27, 10 a.m. We will have guest visitors (including some feathery and scaly friends!) to help us learn about nocturnal animals! We will also explore folklore related to these animals, their importance to various cultures and Southern Colorado history, and create some fun art! Event is free and open to the whole family and is at the Trinidad History Museum. To learn more, contact Millie at emily.duren@state.co.us or 719-846-7217.
Prescription Drug Take Back Day
TRINIDAD– On Saturday, April 27, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the Trinidad Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration will host DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day at the Trinidad Police Department, 160 E First Street in Trinidad. DEA and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms of prescription drugs. In partnership with local law enforcement, Take Back Day has removed 8,950 tons of medication from circulation since its inception.
COLFAX
Blind Date with a Book
RATON– What is Blind Date with a Book? A “blind date with a book” is like a regular blind date where you don’t know what you’re getting until you get there. But, with books! The Librarians at Arthur Johnson Memorial Library in Raton have selected various items from our extensive collection and wrapped them up just for you! If you are feeling daring this is the program for you.
It’s a fun way to be introduced to new authors, books or DVDs that you may have judged by the cover or title. Try your luck and fall in love with reading again. This program runs now through the end of May.
Public Meeting – El Portal
RATON– On Thursday, April 11, 6 p.m. the City of Raton and land Collaborative invite you to come hear about proposed ideas for the EL Portal Lot and share your ideas. The discussion will be held at the Shuler Theatre, 131 N. 2nd St in Raton.
Raton Pokémon Club
RATON– Are you a huge Pokémon fan? Do you want to learn more about it or show off you skills? Whether you are a novice or an expert, come out to the Raton Pokémon Club every Saturday, 4 – 5 p.m. at Arthur Johnson Memorial Library. Both trading cards and video games will be available. –
Dungeons & Dragons Sundays
RATON— Every Sunday at 1 p.m. at ZIA Youth, join Niko, Alex, and their merry band of Ratonians who transform into Knights, Dwarves, and Swamp Witches for a Dungeons & Dragons campaign. Your Nerd Tribe is waiting for you to discover yourself among them! ZIA Youth is located at 207 Park Ave, Raton and is a safe place for 9-17 year olds to hang out after school.
Art classes at Arthur Johnson
RATON— After school art classes have started at Arthur Johnson Memorial Library in Raton. Classes are held every Monday and Wednesday, 4 – 5 p.m. To reserve a spot, contact the Arthur Johnson Memorial Library, or just show up to the first class. It’s on a first come first served basis, if you did not reserve a spot.
The adult art class will be held on Saturdays, starting at 3 p.m. If you are interested please call 575-445-9711, or email the library at Library@cityofRaton.com to reserve a spot.
Youth Heartline Dance party
RATON– The Youth Hearline’s “Show Your Blue” dance party will be at the Raton Convention Center on Friday, April 12, 6 – 8:30 p.m. Live music by DJ Noby “Elvis” Gomez plus food, drinks, raffle prizes, contests, face painting and a photo booth! Don’t miss the fun, all ages welcome!
Western Hunt Fest
RATON– This two-day, 3-D archery tournament includes an elk-calling contest featuring Joe Giglia from ElkBros.com, a simulated elk pack out challenge, vendors and more. Spectators get in free! Don’t miss this great event Saturday, April 13 and Sunday, April 14th at the NRA Whittington Center, 34025 US 64 West, Raton.
Women’s Self-Defense Class
RATON– Trish Hoffman, Women Against Crime© Founder and Albuquerque Police Department Retired Lieutenant, teaches situational awareness and self-defense tactics to women across the nation. This is a unique opportunity for young women and community members to learn essential self-defense skills in a supportive and empowering environment. Attendees are encouraged to bring water, limit personal items, and wear comfortable clothes. This class will be held at Raton High School Gymnasium on Saturday, April 13, 10 a.m. For more information please call 575-445-3541.
Earth Month at AJML
RATON– Join the fun at the Arthur Johnson Memorial Library every Saturday in April for Earth Day activities. This Saturday, April 13, 2 p.m they’ll have a bug art program, all ages are welcome. Stop in anytime on Saturday to pick up seed, bird feeder handouts as well as the NMSU Pocket Guide to Native Bees of New Mexico. These are available all day while supplies last.
Night Sky Viewing
CAPULIN– Join us for an exceptional Dark Sky experience on Saturday, April 13, 8 p.m. Telescopes are provided by Capulin Volcano National Monument, 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 canceled due to weather.
Colfax County Extension 34th
Annual Family Health Fair
RATON– The Colfax County Extension Service is preparing for the 34th Annual Family Health Fair. This will be held on Thursday, April 18, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Raton Convention Center. For more information please email kareyl20@nmsu.edu
