OUR WORLD
Colorado Day
COLORADO– In celebration of Colorado Day, and the 146th birthday of the state, Colorado Parks and Wildlife is offering free entry to all Colorado state parks on Monday, Aug. 1.
Colorado Day was created by the state legislature to mark the anniversary of statehood, granted in 1876 by President Ulysses S. Grant. The state recognizes this holiday on the first of the month, and state parks celebrate the occasion with free entrance on the first Monday of August. All other park fees remain in effect.
HUERFANO
Huerfano Community Coalition Meeting
HUERFANO—Huerfano Community Coalition will meet Thursday, July 28 at 12 p.m. at the La Veta Village Assisted Living. If you want to tour the building and meet some of the staff, please join them at 11:30 a.m.
SCCOG Meeting
HUERFANO—The South Central Council of Governments’ next meeting is scheduled on Thursday, July 28 at 1 p.m. Contact Donna Sue at SCCOG at 719-845-1133 x 223 for Zoom Link if you would like to join the meeting or use the meeting ID: 821 3712 9673
The year that changed China
LA VETA—A special guest in La Veta, Donald Gibbs, PhD, a retired educator with an amazing background will be presenting a program at the La Veta Library at Thursday, July 28 at 1 p.m.He has spent every summer in China since 1979 so has witnessed the transition of China from a sealed off, isolated nation suffering a planned economy under the radical rule of Chairman Mao to a more open society converted to capitalism, a nation developed from extreme poverty to relative prosperity. He will discuss these changes as presented in his most recent publication, The Year that Changed China. Program made possible by the Huajatolla Heritage Foundation and Colorado Humanities funding.
Fundraiser rummage sale for Kimbrels
LA VETA—St. Ann’s Guild will host a fundraiser rummage sale on Friday, July 29 & Saturday, July 30 from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Christ the King Parish Hall in La Veta, CO. Proceeds will go to parishioners, Ron & Theresa Kimbrel, to help on their long road to recovery from injuries sustained in a vehicle accident earlier this month. Your support is greatly appreciated! For more information, contact Jane Jacquart 719-469-2713 or Jeanne Keffeler 719-989-1393.
SPLD Summer program
WALSENBURG—This Friday, July 29 is the last event for our Oceans of Possibilities summer program. We will be doing pirate activities and listening to pirate books. We start at 10:30 am at the library located at 415 Walsen Ave. If you have any questions you may contact Ms. Sherry at 719-695-1105 or sherry@spld.org. The children’s department is almost back to the way it used to be now. We have 3 different sizes of Legos to play with, puzzles, paints, crayons, and colored pencils for coloring and creating. Hours are Mon – Wed from 10 to 6, Thu – Fri from 10 to 4. and Sundays 1 to 5.
Fridays for fun at LVSA
LA VETA—All children from 6-12 are invited to participate in La Veta School of the Arts’ summer art program. Younger children can participate with an adult assistant. Friday, July 29, Veronica Marino will lead young artists to dance while they paint in order to create personal paintings. All Fridays For Fun classes are 1-3 p.m. and if you call ahead 719-742-3421 and leave your name and number, the classes are $10. If you pay at the door, the cost is $15. Scholarships are available.
Friday art programs at MOF
WALSENBURG—Friday Art STEAM Lab is happening at MoF this Friday from 1 to 3 p.m. and continues every Friday through the week before Thanksgiving. This Friday, Melony Barton, ceramics instructor is continuing the clay project. No materials are necessary, MoF will provide all and the fee is by donation. We encourage children ages 6 to 12 to join us. Please call 719-738-2858 or visit www.museumoffriends.org for more information.
Classic portrait sculpting
LA VETA—The La Veta School of the Arts is offering Classic Portrait Sculpting, taught by Maria Battista, a sculptor and educator. Students will learn the methods of master European sculptors for achieving a representational portrait in clay. Maria will introduce students to the anatomy of the human head and face, key measurements, and visual training as you create a 3/4 life-sized portrait from a live model. You will use reusable oil-based clay. Cost for this 2 1/2 day workshop on Friday, July 29 from 6-9 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday July 30 and 31, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. is $188, plus $68 lab fee for clay, plus additional shared expense for model – payable to the instructor at the start of class. A supply list will be sent when you register and all levels are welcome. Classes are at LVSA across from Town Park on Ryus Ave.. For more info or to register, go to www.the LVSA.org or call 719-746-2252.
Recycled Art with Gary Weston
WALSENBURG—Come learn about fun, quirky Recycled Art with Gary Weston. Gary is known for his science fiction, steampunk and pop culture art. He will show us pieces from his collection and share his appreciation and approach for creating with recycled materials. This free program happens Friday, July 29 at 7 p.m. in the Visitor Center Multipurpose Room at Lathrop State Park. Because this program takes place in the Visitor Center, park passes are not required unless you plan to go into the park. Park passes are required on all vehicles entering the park. For questions or more information, please contact Lathrop State Park at 719.738.2376. The park is located at 70 County Road 502, Walsenburg.
Weekend movie at the FOX
WALSENBURG— The historic Fox Theatre’s weekend movie is THOR: LOVE & THUNDER. Thor embarks on a journey unlike anything he’s ever faced — a quest for inner peace. However, his retirement gets interrupted by Gorr the God Butcher, a galactic killer who seeks the extinction of the gods. Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m.
Francisco Fort Day
LA VETA— Saturday, July 30 join us for our annual Fransisco Fort Day at 306 S. Main St La Veta. To start the day we will be having a pancake breakfast from 7:30 – 9:30 a.m. and Fort Day activities to start at 8 a.m. Admission is free and fun for all ages. We will have music, performances, demonstrations, food, games and much more! To view the complete list, please visit us at www.franciscofort.org
Women’s Hiking Safety with State Trooper Amber Garcia
WALSENBURG— Do you love hiking or know of women who would like to hike more but have questions and want to know more about how to prepare for safety? Come hike the Hogback trail with State Trooper Amber Garcia as she shares helpful tips. The hike is free and happens this Saturday, July 30 at 9 a.m. starting from the Lathrop State Park amphitheater. Park passes are required on all vehicles entering the park. For questions or more information, please contact Lathrop State Park at 719.738.2376. The park is located at 70 County Road 502, Walsenburg. \
Meet the Candidate
WALSENBURG—Saturday, July 30, 10 a.m. Join us at Heritage Park for a candid discussion with Karl Sporleder, candidate for Huerfano County Commissioner. Karl will take questions and comments on the future of our county. Lite refreshments will be available. Paid for by the Committee to Elect Karl Sporleder. Go to www.karlsporlederforcommissioner.com for more information and upcoming events or email us at karlsporlederforcommissioner@gmail.com.
Junior Rangers: Rockin’ it
WALSENBURG— Junior Rangers, would you like to meet some really cool, solid rocks? Come learn about igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks with geologist/geophysicist Dr. Heloise Lynn. Then, decorate your own pet rocks. This free program is Saturday, July 30. Meet at 1 p.m. near the Swim Beach Playground at Lathrop State Park. Bring a parent or guardian, and wear clothing that is art-project friendly. Park passes are required on all vehicles entering the park. For questions or more info call 719-738-2376.
Pop-up Museums
LA VETA—Three Pop-up Museums are happening soon in Huerfano County. On Saturday, July 30, we will be at Francisco Fort Days from 1-3 p.m. and are making that a Vintage Colorado Photo Day. Please, consider bringing any treasured photo that depicts a piece of Colorado history (or your family history) and share a few minutes in telling us about it. We don’t keep your photo, only a picture of it and your story. On Wednesday, Aug. 3, our Pop-up Museum will be at the Cuchara Mercantile from 1-3 p.m. and our fun topic will be sharing Native American Jewelry. Please consider bringing your photos, vintage or not and sharing your knowledge or stories about them. On Saturday, Aug.t 6 we will be at the Gardner Chuckwagon at 1 p.m. to capture many of the stories of the families that have made that wonderful community their home for generations. The Pop-up Museums are an important part the El Arte de Nuestros Abuelos (the Art of Our Grandparents) programs made possible through Huajatolla Heritage Foundation and Colorado Creative Industries Art in Society funding.
Photography Show Reception
LA VETA—The Spanish Peaks Arts Council in La Veta invites everyone to the reception for the annual Photography Show this Saturday, July 30, 5 – 7 p.m. Awards will be presented to winners and refreshments are provided. The show includes photography from throughout the United States created by a variety of photographic techniques. There is no admission fee but donations are gratefully accepted.
Sasquatch Investigations of the Rockies
WALSENBURG— Does the legend of Sasquatch intrigue you? Join Sasquatch Investigations of the Rockies founder Michael Johnson to learn more about these elusive creatures. This program is free and happens Saturday, July 30 at 7 p.m. in the Lathrop State Park Visitor Center. Because this program takes place in the visitor center, park passes are not required unless you plan to go into the park. For questions or more information, call 719-738-2376.
Walsenburg Eagles Spaghetti Dinner
WALSENBURG— The Walsenburg Eagles 1187 is having a spaghetti dinner on July 31 from 12:30 – 3 p.m. at the Eagles Hall, 614 Main St. The cost for the meal is $5. The dinner is a benefit fundraiser to help purchase school supplies for our elementary school students. We’re asking those in attendance to bring a new, unwrapped school item. We hope to see you there.
Mark Oblinger at Deerprint
LA VETA—Sunday, July 31, 4 – 6 p.m. at Deerprint Wine Bar join us for an afternoon of music with Mark Oblinger. A veteran of Colorado stages, Mark’s national performing roots include stints with chart topping country rock stalwarts Pure Prairie League and Firefall. A 5-time Emmy Award winning producer/composer with multiple works featured on the Oprah Winfrey Show, Mark was a 2012 Grammy Finalist for his Children’s Jazz Symphony Jumpin Jazz Kids—A Swinging Jungle Tale, featuring the great Al Jarreau. $15 advance tickets, $18 day of show. Tickets are available at https://www.simpletix.com/e/mark-olinger-tickets-102323
Comedy Club
WALSENBURG— Join us at the 2nd Street Bar and grill located in the Walsenburg Golf Course for another great night of Comedy. Tuesday, Aug 2 at 6 p.m. Mo Alexander will take the stage. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Please come early for dinner as the kitchen will shut down during the show. You can enter through 2nd St in Walsenburg or through the Lathrop State Park entrance, no park pass required. Tickets will be available for purchase the day of the show.
Weekly Watercolor Classes
LA VETA—La Veta artist Kathy Hill is holding watercolor classes on Wednesday mornings, 9:30 a.m.- 12 p.m. at her Studio Gallery. The classes are for beginners or others with a little experience with watercolor painting. Each class offers basic techniques. The cost is $25 per class. Materials can be provided for an additional $10. Call to get more information. 719 742-5756. Space is limited.
Health facts at the Fox Theatre
WALSENBURG—Join us Thursday, Aug 4 at 5 p.m. at the Fox Theatre as Spanish Peaks Regional Health Centers Dr. Sandeep Vijan hosts Health Facts at the Fox. This free event is your chance to ask questions and get answers from Huerfano County’s leading health care experts. The event is part of Colorado’s Hospital Transformation Program, an effort to improve health care provided to Health First Colorado members. Enjoy popcorn, meet local health care experts, and get answers to questions you have regarding Medicaid, financial assistance for medical care, substance abuse, health services offered in Huerfano County and much more.
Gardner Chuckwagon
GARDNER—The 78th Gardner Chuckwagon will be held on Saturday, Aug 6 from 12 – 4 p.m. A meal of pot roast beef, potatoes and gravy, beans, coleslaw, corn on the cob, biscuits and desserts will be served at the Gardner Methodist Church pavilion. Come out and reconnect with friends over a cup of cowboy coffee or lemonade and enjoy this long time tradition. Proceeds will help provide scholarships for two local students to pursue their college education.
Burlesque Review
LA VETA— Saturday, August 6, 7 p.m. join La Veta Mercantile and Queen City Productions presenting a campy, classy tongue-in-chic burlesque revue $20 advance tickets, $23 day of show. Tickets available at www.simpletix.com/e/burlesque-review-tickets-107206
Community resource fair
HUERFANO— Sunday, Aug 7, 1 – 3 p.m. at the Huerfano County Community Center at 928 Russell St, Walsenburg join us for a community resource fair. We will have clothing, diapers, wipes, toys, games fun booths and more. There will also be resources and educational supplies available. For more information or to donate please contact HuLA Early Childhood Council at 719-856-0463.
Author talk with Virginia Sanchez
LA VETA—On Thursday, August 11, at 1 p.m. Ms. Sanchez will present a informative session at the La Veta Library based on her book “The Forgotten Cucharenos of the Lower Valley”. This Cucharas was established in 1866 northeast of present-day Walsenburg. Sanchez will bring the Plaza of Cucharas and its surroundings alive as she introduces the forgotten stage stop for the Barlow and Sanderson Stage, the early irrigation systems on farms, the school, and the railroad town of Cucharas Junction. Her book about Cucharas was published by The History Press in 2010 and it received the 2011 Miles History Award from the History Colorado Center. Support from Huajatolla Heritage Foundation and Colorado Humanities allows us to offer this important program for free!
Stonewall Century Ride
HUERFANO—Saturday, Aug 13 the Stonewall Century Ride returns. Riders will be leaving La Veta and going to Segundo and then back on the scenic Highway of Legends. Covering 25, 50, 75 or 102.4 miles and 7500 feet of elevation gain. For more information on the events or to register please visit www.spcycling.org
LAS ANIMAS
Please be advised that the Tourism Trolley will NOT be running on Sundays. Most of the stops it usually makes on the tour are closed on that day, and because of gas prices, it doesn’t make it feasible.
Friday Night Live
TRINIDAD—This Friday, July 29 and every Friday Night throughout the summer join us at 8 p.m. for Friday Night Live at Trinidad Lake State Park . Our Park Rangers inform and entertain with everything going on in around the Park.
Las Animas County Fair
LAS ANIMAS—The annual Las Animas County Fair continues through Saturday, July 30 at the Las Animas County Fair Grounds, 2200 N. Linden Ave, Trinidad.
The Origins of Trinidad Lake State Park
TRINIDAD—This year, Colorado Parks and Wildlife is celebrating its 125th Anniversary. As part of the celebration, we have invited retired park manager Russ Pallone, who for over three decades was an eye witness to the evolution of the park. He will tell the story of this tremendous resource. It is particularly important to tell this story now because so many newcomers in this area don’t know what a treasure we have. Join us at the amphitheater on Saturday, July 30, 7 p.m.
Chess fundraiser
TRINIDAD— Tuesday, Aug. 2, 11 a.m. – midnight join the Frontier Geeks at Sexy Pizza in Trinidad for the Chess Fundraiser. The cost to enter open play is $5, this buy-in will go directly to our Trinidad Dreamhack Magic: The Gathering Regional Championship Qualifier and the costs associated with putting on a national-level card tournament. Sexy Pizza has agreed to donate a portion of their days sales to Frontier Geeks for the regional qualifier tournament. Get your friends together and come by for chess and pizza on Tuesday, Aug 2nd. If chess is not your game, you can still help by placing an order for delivery.
First Friday art walk
TRINIDAD— Friday, Aug 5 from 5 – 8 p.m. is Trinidad’s First Friday art walk on Main and Commercial. Join us at the Marketplace Gallery at 149 E. Main, Entertainment- at Gallery Row, 149 E. Main, Drop City Coffee at 112 N. Commercial, AR Mitchell 150 E. Main, Corazon Gallery and Mutiny Café.
Bon Carbo poker run
LAS ANIMAS—The 3rd Annual Bon Carbo Poker Run, will be held Saturday, Aug 6 starting at 8:30 a.m. Registration/first card at 135 N Animas, Trinidad. parking lot, 8:30 – 9:30. 2nd card in Aguilar, 3rd Card in Cuchara, 4th Card in Stonewall and final card for the hand at the BonCarbo fire station. $25 first hand, $15 additional hand with cash prizes. Music and food from 4 p.m. – 5 p.m. 719-846-8538 or call/text 410-562-1390
PWP Bags & Brews River Cleanup
TRINIDAD—Saturday, Aug. 6 at 9 a.m. meet at the white patio by the old Noah’s Ark entrance. Trash bags, brand new gloves, factory-sealed bottles of water, brand new safety vests, disinfecting wipes will be provided. Bring whatever additional personal protective gear you would like – sunscreen, hat, mask, personal water bottle, your own gloves if you’d rather, etc. Afterwards, we’ll head over to Moose’s for a post-event social and celebration! For questions call 970-420-1915. Sponsored by Purgatoire Watershed Partnership.
Aguilar Festival & Car Show
AGUILAR—The Friends of Aguilar, along with the Town of Aguilar and local sponsors, will once again sponsor the yearly Aguilar Festival Saturday, Aug 6th. The theme this year will be “Celebrating our Roots” and will coincide with the 100 year anniversary of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Aguilar. Starting with Parade that will include kids decorated bikes, at 10:00,line up at 9:30. For questions about how to enter your kids decorated bike please contact Mari at 765-376-5586. There will also be a car show with 7 classes with prizes this year, kids crafts and games. There will be music and dancing in the park, beer garden and petting zoo. We welcome food or craft vendors, parade or car/bike entries. For more information call 316-214-3364 or find us on Facebook at Friends of Aguilar.
Community resource fair
LAS ANIMAS— Saturday, Aug. 6, 1 – 3 p.m. at the Las Animas County Health Department join us for a community resource fair. We will have clothing, diapers, wipes, toys, games fun booths and more. There will also be resources and educational supplies available. For more information or to donate please contact HuLA Early Childhood Council at 719-856-0463.
ROAR for Relay for Life
TRINIDAD—Come ROAR with us in the fight against cancer! Join us on Saturday, Aug. 6, 4 – 6 p.m. for too much fun, have a team, celebrate survivors and remember loved ones. Opening ceremony is at 4:30 p.m. and a special tribute to Linda Pfalmer, cancer survivor and caregiver dinner at 5:30 p.m. Live music by Tommy D Productions, human Foosball, pie eating contest, talent show, 50/50 raffle, tons of kids activities and food vendors. For more info or to register your foosball team call Kendra Doherty at 719-680-0693 or 719-946-5510, or call Lesley Abeyta-Hertzing at 719-859-2065. We still need volunteers.
COLFAX
Steel and Wheels- complimentary Via Ferrata & e-bike tours
RATON— We want you to be among the first to take part in our debut experiences. Book your visit to Vermejo between now September 5th to enjoy a complimentary guided Via Ferrata climb and E-bike tour.
Via Ferrata, which is Italian for “iron way” is a system of metal ladders and cables developed in WWI to move troops through the Alps. Today, it has become a fun and popular pastime worldwide. With balance-beam walks, a swinging bridge crossing, and a rock prow traverse that puts you 30 feet off the ground, our course is an approachable and thrilling introduction to this elevated activity.
Imagine riding with the wind constantly at your back. Relaxing isn’t? Alongside our fleet of mountain and gravel bikes you can now experience the thrill of e-mountain bikes. With a motor built into the frame, these pedal-assist bicycles provide extra power to make those hills easier and to keep your ride smoother.
Connect with nature during our newest activities and discover a new view. For more details or to book the complimentary tour, please call 575-445-3097
Crows and Ravens Art Competition
SPRINGER— Laughing Crow Artisans is sponsoring the Crows and Ravens Art Competition. Submissions will be accepted between July 15, and September 15. Public voting begins August 1, so get your entries in early! The winners will be announced on September 16, 2022. The top 10 finalists will be represented in the Crows and Ravens Exhibit beginning October 1, 2022. There is also a cash prize for Grand Prize, Second Place, Third Place, and Two Honorable Mentions totaling a minimum of $1000. Lern more at https://contest.laughingcrowartisans.com/crows-and-ravens
Night Sky Viewing
CAPULIN—Come and enjoy the amazing night sky at Capulin Volcano. Join Capulin Rangers as we break out the telescopes and explore the different planets and distant deep space objects viewable from the park. Follow red lights from the visitor center to the observing area. Bring warm clothes, a face covering and your curiosity for an out of this world experience. No reservations needed. Night sky viewing will be Saturday, July 30 from 8:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.
BBQ & school supply giveaway
RATON—Zia Youth presents the 2022 end of summer family bbq and school supply giveaway. Join us on Saturday, July 30 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. behind the Raton Aquatic Center. We will have a DJ, bouncy castle and lots of fun games and activities for the whole family to enjoy. Please no outside food or beverages.
Johnson Mesa Church schedule
RATON—Join us on Sundays at The Johnson Mesa Church, the Little Rock Church on the Mesa, east of Raton. Services are every Sunday at 2:30 p.m. This Sunday, July 31, Jennifer Kandel, of Assembly of God Church, Tucumcari NM and Foster Care Ministry Director for New Mexico Ministry Network will be our speakers. Next Sunday, Aug 7 at 2:30 we will have Chuck Wiggins, Pastor from Methodist Church in Springer.
Colfax County Fair
SPRINGER— The Colfax County Fair is being held now through Sunday, July 31 at the county fairgrounds in Springer. Regular admission to the fair is $5. Saturday, July 30 at 10:45 a.m. is the kids parade and at 11 a.m. is the official parade. There will also be a political meet and greet for candidates at Miller-Lark Barn on Saturday at 11:30 a.m. All candidates are welcome to attend. For more info contact Diane at Hudgensbd@gmail.com. Or visit us on Facebook at Colfax County Fair.
Volunteer sign-up mixer
RATON— Gate City Music Festival is right around the corner. Do you want to be a volunteer for this years event? Join us for our volunteer sign up and mixer on Thursday, July 28, 5 – 7 p.m. at the Gate City Craft Bar. Appetizers will be provided.
Summer food baskets for students
SPRINGER—On August 8, Springer Municipal Schools and the Food Pantry of Santa Fe will be giving food baskets for the 2nd time this summer. This is only for families with students enrolled in the Springer Schools District. This includes Head Start Program as well. (PreK thru 12th). Exact time will be shared on the schools that social media page and the districts School reach phone system. Location will be the Springer High school campus. For more info call (575) 493 – 2482.
