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upcoming events for February 9, 2023

OUR WORLD

3rd Annual Valentine Baking Palooza Fundraiser

TRINIDAD/WALSENBURG— Call Kendra at 719-680-0693 today to reserve your delicious homemade yummy by Thursday, Feb. 9. Delivery & pick up in Trinidad morning of Tuesday, Feb. 14 and in Walsenburg in the afternoon. Payment can be taken at time of delivery or you can pay beforehand at Corradino Auto Body, 124 N. Maple St, in Trinidad or Farm Bureau, 713 Walsen Ave in Walsenburg. A ROAR for Relay for Life fundraiser!

HUERFANO

Want to make a difference?

HUERFANO— Huajatolla Heritage Foundation has been making a difference in Huerfano County for more than 7 years. We approach our mission of promoting cultural equity through a variety of programs and events. Recently our activities have blossomed beyond our wildest expectations. We are looking for some of the good people of Huerfano County to join our non-profit as board members. The board meets
quarterly. Please contact Sandy Dolak if you want to assist in making great things happen in Huerfano
County: sdolak@hhfoundation.org; Phone or text: 719-251-1271

Library at Your Door

WALSENBURG— Library at your door is a new service at the Spanish Peaks Library.  Here’s how it works: if there is a book you would like and it’s not available in our catalog, log into spld.org and go to Services, click on Library at Your Door and fill out the form.  If your request is approved, we will buy the book and Amazon will ship it directly to you.  When you have finished reading, bring the book back to the library and we will add it to our collection!  This service is available for books, large print books, DVD’s and Blu-Ray.

Honoring program

HUERFANO— Huajatolla Heritage Foundation with support from Huerfano County Commissioners is kicking off a year long program to honor the amazing elders and youth we have in our communities. Our goal is to honor one in each age group per month. This honoring is somewhat different as we want to acknowledge those that have contributed so much, often in very quiet or unrecognized ways. They may “simply” be the best grandmother or handy neighbor or church worker or animal advocate or rancher or kind person — the list can go on and on. Please help us compile a list of potential honorees from all areas of Huerfano County. Everyone that is nominated will be acknowledged and one person a month will be highlighted by the Wisdom Archives steering committee. Nomination forms will be available at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg, La Veta Library, and the Gardner Bookmobile. Call/text Sandy Dolak 719-251-1271 or email at sdolak@hhfoundation.org

SPLD input wanted

WALSENBURG— Spanish Peaks Library District wants your input! Please fill out a short survey about what we are doing right, what we are doing wrong, and what do you want from your library!  You can find the survey at https://tiny.one/spldsp

Wisdom Archives’ presentation

HUERFANO— An informative and fun program: “Looking for Love in All the Wrong Places…or Oh, Brothel where Art thou?” Learn from noted Colorado author, Randi Samuelson-Brown about her research prior to writing the historical fiction work, Madam of Market Street. Randi, along with Sandy Dolak will offer a fascinating peek into the world of brothels, bordellos, redlight districts and the “Soiled Doves” that worked them.  Valentine refreshments will be served. This free program is possible through Art in Society Funding to Huajatolla Heritage Foundation. Join us Thursday Feb. 9, 1 p.m. at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg and/or Friday, Feb. 10, 1 p.m. at the La Veta Library. Valentine refreshments will be served.  This free program is possible through Art in Society Funding to Huajatolla Heritage Foundation. Please contact sdolak@hhfoundation.org if you would like more information.

La Veta’s Forgotten Founders

LA VETA— In the annals of La Veta’s founding history, two colorful, daring and honorable men get scant mention, but without them La Veta might have never flourished. Come and learn the identity of these two and hear their unique and enjoyable stories brought to life  by La Veta Historian and Storyteller, Sam Law.  The free program will be at the La Veta Library on Thursday, Feb. 9 at 2 p.m. and anyone interested in our local history will not want to miss it this presentation!

SPLD Flicks at the Library

WALSENBURG— Friday, Feb. 10, 1:30 p.m. at Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg  We will be featuring the movie Willow this month, a story about a young farmer and aspiring magician who teams up with a disaffected warrior to protect a special baby from an evil Queen.  Children MUST be accompanied by an adult.

LVPL Trivia Night

LA VETA— Join the La Veta Public Library for Trivia Night at Mountain Merman Brewing Company, 220 S. Main, La Veta on Friday, Feb. 10, 7 p.m. 5 rounds, 5 questions each round, up to 7 people on each team. No electronic devices allowed-this will result in immediate team disqualification. There is no charge to participate in trivia. First place wins $25 off their tab, second place wins $15 off their tab, third place wins $10 off their tab. Bring a canned or non-perishable food item to earn 1 point for your team!

Weekend movie at the Fox: Seriously Red

WALSENBURG– The historic Fox Theatre’s weekend movie is Seriously Red. Fired from her real estate job, Red pursues her dream of becoming the world’s greatest Dolly Parton impersonator. When her act attracts the attention of an amorous Elvis impersonator and a powerful booking agent, she soon gets catapulted into the top tier of copycat performers, becoming the onstage and romantic partner of the top Kenny Rogers impersonator. Showtimes are Friday 7:30 p.m., Saturday 7:30 p.m., Sunday 3 p.m.  Adults $7, Students $6, Children (5-12) & Seniors $5.

Bake Sale fundraiser

WALSENBURG— Bake sale fundraiser to support Destination Imagination- Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (STEAM). They’ll be selling baked goods at First Choice in Walsenburg on Saturday, Feb. 11 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. The money raised will go towards Peakview teams going to regionals in March.

Afternoon of Poetry

LA VETA— An Afternoon of Poetry in honor of “Connection”, will be held on Saturday, Feb. 11, 2 – 4 p.m., at the La Veta Public Library, please bring a mask. Bring poems to read, your own or other favorites! For more information please call Tom 719 742 3776 or Robin 719 742 3398.

SPACe Members Art Show

LA VETA— The Spanish Peaks Arts Council (SPACe) in La Veta invites everyone to the Opening Reception for the 2023 Members Show this Saturday, Feb. 11, 5 – 7 p.m. The show includes original artwork by 17 SPACe members in a variety of media and styles. Large and small, traditional and abstract, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The show will be on display until March 4. The SPACe Gallery, located in the La Veta Town Park at 132 W. Ryus, is open Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Visit the SPACe website to see pictures of some of the artwork in the show. www.spanishpeaksarts.org.

Eagles Valentine’s dinner/dance

WALSENBURG— The Walsenburg Eagles Aerie 1187 and Eagles Ladies Auxiliary 1187 invite you to a Valentine’s Day Party.  The party will be held at the Eagles Hall, 614 Main St. in Walsenburg, on Saturday, Feb. 11, 5 -7 p.m. we will be serving dinner. The menu is steak or ham, baked potato, salad, a roll, and dessert.  Following dinner will be a dance from 7 p.m. – 12 a.m. with live music by Dynamix.  The cost will be $20, which covers dinner and the dance.  The bar will be open in the evening.   As a special attraction, there will be a photo booth set up for those interested in having their picture taken. Please RSVP no later than Feb. 8 by calling 719-332-1220.  Please leave a message if there is no answer.  We hope you can come out and attend this special evening with us.

Kid Friendly Service at New Hope

WALSENBURG— Kids will be the focus of Super Kids Sunday at New Hope Community Church Sunday, Feb. 12, 10 a.m. at the church located at 801 Pennsylvania in Walsenburg. This kid friendly service will feature the engaging story-telling of the famous account of Daniel in the lion’s den found in the Bible, told by Pastor Shults with fun songs led by Rick Williams. As always, there is a free pancake breakfast at 9 a.m. before the service. Parents and guests are always welcome. The service will conclude around 11 a.m, in plenty of time for families to prepare for the Super Bowl!

Story time at SPLD

WALSENBURG— Storytime for Babies and Toddlers and Storytime for Kids are ongoing programs at the Spanish Peaks Library.  Toddler Storytime is on Mondays at 10:30 a.m. and Storytime for Kids is at 10:30 a.m. on Fridays.  Join our Children’s Librarian for an exciting adventure into the world of books.

Free Tax Preparation

HUERFANO – Another Life Foundation partners with the IRS to offer FREE income tax preparation to eligible community members. We are excited to be extending our IRS VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance) tax services to Huerfano County this tax season!  If you make $58k or less, visit one of the FREE IRS VITA Tax Sites that will be held at the local libraries. Accepting Walk-ins every Monday, 3 – 6 p.m. at the La Veta Public Library and every Wednesday from 1:30-4:30 p.m. at Spanish Peaks Library District in Walsenburg. See our website https://www.anotherlifefoundation.com/irsvitataxsite-itinservices for more information about the program and what to bring, or call 719-216-7238.

Tech Tuesday at SPLD

WALSENBURG— Tuesday, Feb. 14, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. in the meeting room at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg. This class will cover using a mobile device (Android and iOS).  Can’t figure out your phone?  Let us help!  Be sure to attend this informative class.

Carol Queener on the Harp

WALSENBURG— Carol on the Harp, will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 14, from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. at the Walsenburg Mercantile.  Grab a drink, and some food, check out our vendors and enjoy the rhythm of the beautiful Harp.

SPLD Trivia Night
 
WALSENBURG— Wednesday, Feb. 15, 6 p.m.  Second Street Bar & Grill at the Walsenburg Golf Course.  Join us for another great time playing Trivia hosted by the Spanish Peaks Library.  This month’s categories are  1)Valentine’s Day T or F,  2)Children’s Book Characters  3)The Beatles  4)State Shapes (Visual)  5)Urban Legends.  Teams are from 1-6 people and the winning team gets $20 off your table’s food and drink tab  Don’t miss it!

El Arte De Nuestros Abuelos Art Class

WALSENBURG— Happy Valentines Day! Come and decorate a box of sweeties for your sweetie Thursday, Feb. 16 1 – 3 p.m. Always free, refreshments served, materials and chocolates provided. Located at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg. For more information and to save your space, text or call Sandy Johnston, (719) 989-8438. Sponsored by Huajatolla Heritage Foundation, and Arts in Society.

Wisdom Archives: Exploring Huerfano County History

HUERFANO— Huajatolla Heritage Foundation has been awarded a small grant from the Huerfano County Historical Society to create a valuable project in Huerfano County. Join Sylvia Brandl, Ron Sandoval and Sandy Dolak as we seek community involvement for this important endeavor, “A Pictorial Archive of 25 Founding Hispano Families of Huerfano County”.  Please come with your stories and photos to be part of this project. Sylvia will be able to scan your photos on the spot and hand them right back to you. Ron will be interested in collecting family names and stories to add to the genealogy base. This will be compiled into a display that will travel throughout Huerfano County in the summer 2023 as part of this important project. We will have meetings for the initial sharing of pictures and stories Saturday, Feb. 18, 1 – 3 p.m. at the La Veta Library. Sunday Feb. 19, 1 – 3 p.m. at the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg.  Monday, Feb. 20, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at La Clinica in Gardner. If you wish to share and can not make these times, please contact Sandy at sdolak@hhfoundation.org and we will see if we can arrange other times or places. Your stories and pictures are so valuable in preserving the history of Huerfano County.

Flamingo Story Time

WALSENBURG – Flamingo Storytime, will be held on Saturday, Feb. 18 and every other Saturday from 2 to 3 p.m.  Mrs. Famingo will be reading a story out loud to any children (or children at heart) who would like to listen. each child who attends will receive a free book! Join us at the Walsenburg Mercantile.

La Veta Writes writing group

LA VETA—  La Veta Writes is a new local writing group. Whether you’re a longtime writer working on a project, a song writer, or simply feeling to make writing a bigger part of your life, come check out La Veta Writes. Starting Tuesday, Feb. 21, the group meets on the 3rd Tuesday of each month from 3 – 5 p.m. at The Parkside Art Gallery, 127 Ryus Ave. If you are looking for feedback on your writing, bring up to 2-pages of writing (double-spaced, 12 pt) with several copies for the group to review. This is a free gathering. Purchase of a yummy beverage or a donation are welcome, but are not required. Sponsored by the La Veta Creative District & Colorado Creative Industries, LaVetaCreativeDistrict.org. For more info, email info@lavetacreativedistrict.org

How to Relieve Stress with Essential Oils

WALSENBURG— How to Relieve Stress with Essential Oils will be held on Saturday, Feb. 25, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.  at the Walsenburg Mercantile. This class is to teach you how you can relieve stress with essential oils, how they work, and why they are effective for all ages. All attendees that remain for the 45 min class are given a FREE essential oil from Chae Organics.

Introduction to the Mountain Dulcimer with Kim McKee

LA VETA— Join us for this folksy, fun workshop led by accomplished dulcimer player Kim McKee. Kim will start at the beginning with stories about the history of the dulcimer, then you will move on to playing! No musical background necessary and instruments provided. This event is happening Friday, March 3 from 1 – 2:30 p.m. at the La Veta Public Library on Main Street. Cost is $15, limited to 10 participants. To ensure your space, please pre-register by email at info@lavetacreativedistrict.org and put “Register for Intro to Mountain Dulcimer” in the subject line. Bring a check or cash to the event. Sponsored by the La Veta Creative District and Colorado Creative Industries, LaVetaCreativeDistrict.org

Community members needed for Head Start Literacy week

WALSENBURG— On behalf of CDI South Central Colorado Head Start, we would like to invite you to our Spring Literacy Event that will be held the week of March 6th – 10th. We are looking for community members to share their passion of reading with our preschool students. If you are available between 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. and would like to read to our preschoolers please contact us by March 1st. You can call us at 719-240-8634 or email us at wkeller@sccohs.org to confirm your attendance.

LAS ANIMAS

Schneider Brewery restoration/ demo project has started

TRINIDAD— As announced last September, Downtown Trinidad Development Group plans to preserve the landmark Schneider Brewery building through a selective demolition and restoration project, which began on Monday, Jan. 23. Trinidad Construction Group is the general contractor for the project. Major sections of the complex deemed structurally unsound by Sun Mountain Design Group will be removed during this process, which is estimated to last 90 days. Short-term traffic disruptions are expected. Plans for the Schneider Brewery buildings’ renewal may include a mixture of retail, residential and office spaces.
The brewery is located at 236 North Convent Street.

Cup of Joe Peer to Peer program

TRINIDAD— Join us every 2nd and 4th Thursday from 9 a.m. – 10 a.m. (except holidays) at Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center, 127 N.  Commercial Street Suite 205, Trinidad.

Community Chorale rehearsal starting

TRINIDAD— It’s time to warm up those vocal cords and come sing with your friends and neighbors in the Trinidad vicinity. The Trinidad Community Chorale has its first rehearsal of the spring season starting Monday, Feb. 6, 6:30 p.m. and repeats every Monday night until the concerts which will occur on Saturday, April 29th, and Sunday, April 30th. Join us at the Methodist Church at the corner of Broom St. and State St. This choir does not require auditions. If you love to sing, come join us. For more information please email trinidad.music.associations@gmail.com.

One day diabetes education

TRINIDAD— Sister Blandina Wellness Gardens in Trinidad will be hosting a 1-day Diabetes education day on Saturday, Feb. 11 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. A diabetic friendly/ low carb meal and materials will be provided. Located at the Champions Building, 127 N. Commercial St, Trinidad. Virtual option is a available, please call 719-845-4838 for more information.

Craft bazaar

TRINIDAD— Saturday, Feb. 11, 10 a.m. Join us at the Old School House Reception Venue at 2221 County Road 71.4 near the Las Animas County Fair Ground for our Valentines Craft Bazaar. We will have local vendors selling their crafts and delicious foods. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity to get your Valentine something amazing.

Trail Work Saturday

TRINIDAD—  Saturday, Feb. 11, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Join Trail Work Day: At the Wormhole! Please meet at the trailhead off Arch St. Bring water, gloves, and a favorite tool if you like. Tools will be provided. Expect around 2.5 hours of digging, hauling rocks, lopping, tamping, etc. We will walk from the trailhead to the worksite. Afterwards we’ll reconvene in the lot to hang with some beverages.

Open House at Noah’s Ark

TRINIDAD— Noah’s Ark Animal Welfare Association will be hosting an Open House, Saturday, Feb. 11, 1 – 3 p.m. at 1921 E. Main. They will be giving a tour of the facility, see some happy dogs and cats, and a insight on what we do for our Trinidad Community! Refreshments will be provided, and maybe some door prizes!

SoCo Mountain Art Emporium ribbon cutting

TRINIDAD— This Saturday, Feb. 11, 1 – 4 p.m., is a Ribbon Cutting Event by the Trinidad & Las Animas County Chamber of Commerce for SoCo Mountain Art Emporium located at 228 W. Main St. Appetizers, light snacks and beverages will be provided by Karen and Dale Aubuchon, owners. SoCo Mountain Art Emporium, which recently opened in September, features a collaborative group of fun artists who showcase their unique creations in a relaxed setting! All 20 artists are from the Trinidad area. Corrine Vigil’s black and white paintings will be featured at the Ribbon Cutting. Be sure to mark your calendars and join us to celebrate our new member to the art/business community!

Art wall reception

TRINIDAD— Please join on Saturday, Feb. 11, 2 – 3:30 p.m., in the main room of the library, for a reception for, and artist’s talk by local artist, Roberta Lutgens. Roberta’s exhibit will be on the library’s Art Wall until mid-February. We were forced to postpone the reception, originally scheduled for the evening of January 20th, due to big snow storm.

Valentine’s Dance

TRINIDAD— Hometown holidays Trinidad is pleased to announce the Valentine’s dance. It will be combined father/daughter and mother/son. Saturday, Feb. 11, 6 – 9 p.m. at Fort Wooten, 204 S. Chestnut in Trinidad. Admission is $10 for kids and $12 for adults. Entertainment provided by Tommy D’s productions. Light refreshments will be served.

Business Showcase Luncheon

TRINIDAD— The Business Showcase Chamber Luncheon will be on Wednesday, Feb. 15, 12- 1:30 p.m. in the Pioneer Room at Sullivan Center TSC. This Month’s guest speaker is Danielle Berg with Otero Partners. Sponsored by the Las Animas County Commissioners.

Cookies and Conversation with Wendy and Odin

TRINIDAD— Socializing with others is a wonderful and positive self care technique to help with anxiety and depression. Join us on Friday, Feb. 17 at 10 a.m. in the Richmond Community Room at the SRDA. If you would like, please bring a sweet or healthy treat to share.

The Market Bar Grand Opening

TRINIDAD— Join The Market Bar in celebrating their Grand Opening on Saturday, Feb. 18, 11 a.m. – 9 .m. There will be kid activities including a make your own parfait bar, rock painting, and a meet and greet with Randy Gradishar from the 1970’s Broncos. There will also be live music from Jeff and Sam Montoya and happy hour specials. Enjoy specials from Market Place food partners and experiences the all new Trinidad Market Bar located at 326 N Commercial St.

4th Annual Trinidad Polar Plunge

TRINIDAD— Join us at Lake Trinidad Boat Ramp, Trinidad State Park on Saturday, Feb. 25 for the 4 th Annual Trinidad Polar Plunge. Check in is from 9:45  – 10:15 a.m. and the Plunge is between 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. This is fundraiser for the Special Olympics. For more information please visit https://specialolympicsco.org/event/trinidadplunge/

COLFAX

Free tutoring for PreK-8 Students in Title I Schools

COLFAX— PED announces its new tutoring service in partnership with Paper that focuses on mathematics, language arts and science. The program offers students in grades preK-8 from New Mexico Title I Schools access to free academic support from tutors on a secure platform. Participating students will receive 20 hours of tutoring at no cost to families. Parents can sign students up at OutofSchool.Tutoring@ped.nm.gov

Annual Father – Daughter Dance

RATON— Dads and daughters, here is an event for you. Join us on Friday, Feb. 10, 7 p.m. at the Parish Hall at St. Patricks – St. Joseph’s Catholic church. Tickets are $10 per person and must be pre-purchased at the Parish Office or at Honeysuckle station. Volunteers are also need to help assist with decorating, baking and chaperoning the dance. Please contact Gayla at 575-643-6587. Donations are also being accepted at this time for the dance.

CCFA Cowboy Sweetheart Ball

RATON— Join us on Saturday, Feb. 11 for the Colfax County Fair Association Sweetheart Ball. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. dinner will be at 6 p.m., live auction at 7 p.m. and dancing to follow til 11 p.m. Music by Yarbrough Band. Admission is $35 per person and $250 for a table for eight. Tickets can be purchased at Mesa Vista Veterinary Clinic, please call 575-445-3912.

How to be a More Effective Board Member training

SPRINGER— Board members typically work hard to be productive and efficient in serving their organizations. An excellent board member will strive to make good decisions in a timely manner. Therefore, the Springer Chamber of Commerce is hosting a meeting providing information on how to be a more effective board member.
Presenting information and guiding the discussion is Melyn Johnson, the Main Street Director of Guymon (Okla.) Johnson, named the 2022 Oklahoma Main Street Director of the Year, has 30 years of experience working with different boards. Prior to being the Main Street Director. She plans to address different types of organizations and boards, discuss by-laws, ethics, committees, annual calendars, annual meetings, events and programs, funding, and volunteer development.
The presentation on boards is to be held on Friday, Feb. 24 at 6 p.m. in Room 107 of Luna College, Springer Campus. The cost of the class is $15 per person and includes supper. Please email springerchamberofcommerce@hotmail.com to
register and indicate your preference of fried catfish or beef tacos.
Contact the Springer Chamber of Commerce President, Sherry Goodyear at 575-447-0502 or Treasurer, Lucas Johnson at 970-553-0577, or email the chamber for more information. Anyone interested is welcome to attend.

Huerfano Fire in tumult

Flurry of resignations, including chief and two board members, follow April’s apparently contentious meeting of the board WALSENBURG — The recent tumult at the Huerfano

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