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Upcoming Events for September 15, 2022

HUERFANO

The pipes, the pipes are calling – SPICMF returns

HUERFANO— The 18th Annual Spanish Peaks International Celtic Music Festival is back! Featuring four days of workshops, demonstrations, concerts, and plenty of free events, you can be sure to find something of interest for you or your family, regardless of whether or not you’re a newcomer to the festival or have been with us from the beginning.  Performing artists this year include old festival favorites and newcomers sure to get you clapping along.  The festival runs September 22-25, 2022.  Look for programs in area businesses or check out celticmusicfest.com for program information, timetables, and more.  Tickets available online at www.facebook.com/CelticMusicFest or in person once the festival begins.

Huerfano County Youth Soccer

HUERFANO— It’s time for soccer! Join friends, family and classmates in learning the beautiful game this Fall in both La Veta and Walsenburg with the Huerfano County Parks and Recreation Department. Age Groups– 4-6 ,7-9, 10-12. Practices will be Monday and Thursday 4:30 – 6 p.m. in  La Veta at the baseball field on Main Street and in Walsenburg at Fiesta Park Softball and Baseball Fields. All games will be in Walsenburg at Fiesta Park on Saturdays, Sept. 24 – Oct 29. Just $40 for six weeks of play fun and surprises!
Register https://secure.rec1.com/CO/huerfano-county-co/catalog

Peakview coat drive

WALSENBURG—This year has been really tight for a lot of families. With winter around the corner, the Chucka Agency of Farmers Insurance is conducting a winter coat drive for the kids at Peakview School. The children range in ages of 3-12 years old. Please bring all gently used winter coats you may have; and they must be clean. Donations will be accepted Sept. 12 through Oct. 12, at the Chucka Agency, located at 622 S Albert St., Monday-Wednesday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. If you have any questions, please call the Chucka Agency at 719-738-9955.

For The Birds – First in an art series

WALSENBURG— This first class will consist of sculpting your favorite birds from air dry clay.  Wooden bases will be supplied to mount your sculptures on.  The second class, coming in October, will be to paint and decorate the birds as fanciful or realistic as you wish.  Instruction by Sandy Johnston and Sandy Dolak. This class will be held at the Walsenburg Housing Authority, 220 Russel St.  Walsenburg on Friday Sept. 16, 1 – 3 p.m. Sculpting tools, clay, and paint will be provided as well as refreshments.  No charge. Please RSVP by Sept. 13 (719) 989-8438 Sponsored by Arts in Society and Mt. Rose Health Center.

Fridays For Fun at LVSA – Printmaking
 
LA VETA—Every Friday, for all children ages 6-12 are invited to participate in the La Veta School of the Art’s summer art program! Younger children can participate with an adult assistant. 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 also available.

An evening ice cream social with DHS

WALSENBURG—The Department of Human Services Foster Care Program invites you and your family to Gub Gub’s Ice Cream Express in The Walsenburg Mercantile to enjoy an ice cream social on Friday, Sept. 16 from 6 – 8 p.m. There will be complimentary ice cream, music, and program coordinators sharing information and answering questions about what the foster care program is, and how you can become involved.

Weekend movie at the FOX

WALSENBURG— The historic Fox Theatre’s weekend movie is The Invitation, PG-13. Invited by her newfound family to a lavish wedding in the English countryside, she’s at first seduced by the sexy aristocrat host but is soon thrust into a nightmare of survival as she uncovers twisted secrets in her family’s history and the unsettling intentions behind their sinful generosity.   Showtimes are: Friday at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Sunday at 3 p.m. Movie Tickets are $7 for Adults $6 for Students and Teachers $5 for Children (age five to twelve) and Seniors

San Isabel Electric Annual meeting

WALSENBURG— Win free electricity for a year! Join San Isabel Electric on Saturday, Sept. 17 at 10 a.m. at John Mall High School in Walsenburg. Enjoy free snacks and lunch, play bingo and win door prizes. For more information please visit SIEA.com/annualmeeting.

Betty Elwell Memorial service

LA VETA—Memorial service for Betty Elwell will be this Saturday,  Sept. 17 at 1 p.m.  The service will be at La Veta United Methodist Church, 416 S Main St. with reception to follow. Join us as we honor Betty.

Huerfanimas- a celebration of Huerfano and Las Animas counties

CUCHARA—Panadero Ski Corporation and Cuchara Mountain Mercantile are hosting Huerfanimas – a celebration of Huerfano and Las Animas Counties. This will be a super fun evening of rock n’ roll, food, and local businesses uniting our beloved Highway of Legends. Headlining is Robbie and the Reckless from Trinidad, and their blend of country and bluesy rock with talented Mason Davis from the Cuchara Valley, opening and showing us how it’s done on the guitar! We’ll have food from Fatt Weller’s and Sexy Pizza as well as businesses from both counties showing off their goods. Thank you to Bud Hut and Urban Smoken for sponsoring our event and supporting live music! Saturday, Sept. 17, Cuchara Mountain Mercantile, Doors open at 4 p.m., Show at 5 p.m., $20 advanced/$25 doors. Advanced tickets are available at skiingcuchara.org with no fees.

4th Annual Half-Marathon, Relay and Fun Run in La Veta

LA VETA— Sunday, Sept. 18, 8 a.m. there will be a half-marathon and/or relay and fun run that begins in La Veta Town Park. The route is out and back, with support volunteers scattered along the route. Prizes, refreshments, and t-shirts. Sign up at Two Peaks Fitness in La Veta.

Smythe and Taylor at Deerprint

LA VETA— 20 years, 11 recordings, and 10 European tours later, Smythe and Taylor have become well known for their symbiotic harmonies, comedic timing, excellent sound quality, and their unique “3D” style of guitar playing. After Gary won the Woody Guthrie Songwriting Award, S&T were nominated in 5 categories of the Texas Music Awards. They won the “Popular Cover” and “Vocal Group of the Year” awards.  Since 2009, S&T have hosted the High Peaks Music Festival in Westcliffe, Colorado, and have enjoyed a standing invitation to bookend the Sweet Home Fest in Guildford, England since 2017. S&T have played hundreds of venues but enjoy performing at listening rooms, festivals, and house concerts the best. www.smytheandtaylor.com They will be at Deerprint in La Veta on Sunday, Sept. 18 at 4 p.m. www.simpletix.com/e/smyth-and-taylor-tickets-113271 $15 advance tickets, $18 day of show.

Affordable health screenings coming to Walsenburg

WALSENBURG—Residents living in and around  Walsenburg can learn about their risk for cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, and other chronic, serious conditions with affordable screenings by Life Line Screening. Huerfano County Community Center will host this community event on Tuesday, Sept. 20  at the Huerfano County Community Center at 928 Russell Ave.  Screenings can check for:
 The level of plaque buildup in your arteries, related to risk for cardiovascular disease, stroke and
overall vascular health.
 HDL and LDL Cholesterol levels
 Diabetes risk
 Bone density as a risk for possible osteoporosis
 Kidney and thyroid function, and more
Screenings are affordable and convenient. Free parking is also available. Special package pricing starts at $159, but consultants will work with you to create a package that is right for you based on your age and risk factors. Call 1-877-237-1354 or visit our website at www.lifelinescreening.com. Pre-registration is required.

SPLD Trivia night

WALSENBURG—Spanish Peaks Library brings you Trivia Night at the Second Street Bar & Grill at the Walsenburg Golf Course. Join us on Wednesday, Sept. 21,  6 p.m. for a fun night of Trivia!  Categories this month are as follows: Round 1 – General Literature. Round 2 – Cartoons of the 80’s. Round 3 – Famous Movie Lines. Round 4 – Visual – Name That TV Show. Round 5 – Deadly Insects. Winning team gets $20 off their table’s tab!  Hope to see you there!

Eagles Ladies Auxiliary 1187 meeting change

WALSENBURG— The Walsenburg FOE 1187 Auxiliary has changed their September meeting dates due to the holiday weekend. Join us on Friday, Sept. 23 at 6 p.m. The group welcomes new members. To learn more, please contact the secretary, Deb Montoya at debymontoya@yahoo.com.

Spanish Peaks Regional Health Center to hold dedication to Ed Ludvik

WALSENBURG— On Saturday, September 24, 2022, from 10 to 11 a.m., friends, family, and members of the SPRHC team will gather at Spanish Peaks Regional Health & Veterans Community Living Center to celebrate the dedication of the Ed Ludvik Administrative Suite. Edwin (Ed) R. Ludvik, former Chairman of the Board, was a visionary, leader, and friend to the Walsenburg community and specifically, Spanish Peaks Regional Health Center.

First Annual Ed Ludvik Golf Tournament

WALSENBURG— In memory of Ed Ludvik and his parents Jim and Anne who all helped make the golf course everything it is today. Join us on Saturday, Sept. 24 for the 4 person scramble style tournament. Entry fee is $100 and includes golf, cart and a taco bar. Tee off at 1 p.m. with a cash bar party afterwards. All proceed go to the golf course on Ed’s behalf. For moe information please visit www.golfwalsenburg.com, call 719-547-9610 or e-mail vzzn@aol.com

Artists Working with Clay, Glass & Fiber

LA VETA—The Spanish Peaks Arts Council in La Veta (SPACe) is seeking artists whose primary media is clay, glass, or fiber to participate in the upcoming exhibit–the Clay, Glass, & Fiber Show, Sept. 27 – Nov. 5. Original art may be brought to enter the show on Sept. 22, 23, & 24 between 10 a.m. & 2 p.m. There is a small fee of $5 per entry to help with operating expenses. For complete details visit the SPACe website: spanishpeaksarts.org, or call SPACe at 719 742-3074 Tues -Sat, 10 – 3. The SPACe Gallery is located at 132 W. Ryus in La Veta.

Grit Nine-0 Gravel and 10k Run

LA VETA—The Grit Nine-O Gravel Race and 10k Run returns to the stunning eclectic cowboy town of La Veta on Saturday,  Sept. 25 at 9 a.m. Grandote Peaks Golf Course will host this event. Camping will be available next to start/finish. All participants will receive a swag bag, food, beer, cash prizes. merchandise prizes. stocked food stations plus live music. Thank you to Code of the West Real Estate and other partners most of your entry goes back to you! $115 entry fee, $60 for the short course and juniors are $30. The 5k and 10k run will start at 10am with a $45 entry fee. For more information visit; www.bikereg.com/grit-nine-o

Nashville in La Veta
                                           
LA VETA—On Friday, Sept. 30th at 7 p,m,, the La Veta Mercantile will host a special show by Nashville singer/songwriters Fred James & Mary-Ann Brandon. The duo have multi Grammy nominations for their compositions in the “Best Blues Album” category. Their songs have been recorded by Johnny Winter, Charlie Musselwhite, Koko Taylor, Lonnie Brooks, Kenny Neal, Mike Zito, Sapphire, Son Seals, The Nighthawks, Jr. Wells & Bonnie Raitt and many others.
Fred James is a former member of The Amazing Rhythm Aces, The Burrito Brothers, The Memphis Horns Band, The Beat Daddys, The Jelly Roll Kings, The Sam Lay Blues Band  to name but a few.
Mary-Ann Brandon has sung backup with David Olney, Tim Krekel, Tommy Tutone, Tony Joe White, Orion, Buzz Cason, Mac Gayden, Charles Walker, Earl Gaines and she has toured the US and Europe extensively for the past 30 years.
Fred & Mary-Ann have not performed in southern Colorado for three years. This promises to be an exceptionally entertaining and intimate show and is expected to sell out. Tickets are $20 in advance and $23 at the door. To purchase advance tickets go to: lavetamercantile.simpletix.com or call 719-742-3387.

Fall in Love with Fabric
                                           
LA VETA—Love fabric? Want to capture the beauty of the season in a unique way? Spend the afternoon with textile artist Marika Guthrie as she introduces how to use fabric and adhesive as an art medium to create colorful, Fall-inspired landscapes. This afternoon workshop is Saturday, Oct. 1, 1-3 p.m.at the SPACe Gallery in La Veta. The fee is $35, and all materials are included. Enjoy Oktoberfest and then get creative! For more information and details on how to register, visit the SPACe website, www.spanishpeaksarts.org or call (719) 742-3074.

Creating a Legacy Cookbook

WALSENBURG— Huajatolla Heritage Foundation is pleased to partner with Think Art 360 to offer a fun opportunity to work with elders in Huerfano County to share and preserve another aspect of our rich culture and heritage. Working with Annie Toro Lopez, a respected author and writing coach, we will be offering an opportunity to not only learn, or hone or improve your writing skills. We will write about memorable kitchens and then take it a step further with adding recipes focusing on the quintessential favorite, green chili. It will culminate with putting it all together in publishing a cookbook to share. The 5-week class is free and will start Monday, Oct. 3 at 1 p.m. at the Walsenburg Housing Authority. Please contact Annie at editor@highprairiepress.org or call or text Sandy Dolak at 719-251-1271.

Artists and crafters wanted for Huajatolla Heritage Traditions Market

HUERFANO—Attention Artists and Craft people! Huajatolla Heritage Foundation will host another Traditions market on Saturday Dec. 3 This year it will be at Walsenburg Community Center. Nominal charge of $10 for approximate 8 foot by 8 foot space. Please reserve your space soon. Contact Sandy Johnston at 719-989-8438 or Sandy Dolak at info@hhfoundation.org. Arts, crafts, food, entertainment and more!

LAS ANIMAS

Meet and Greet with Ty Winter

TRINIDAD—Ken Torres invites you to a meet and greet event for Ty Winter, candidate for Colorado State House District 47. Friday, Sept. 16 from 6 – 8 p.m. at the Las Animas Grill, 341 N. Commercial Street, Trinidad. For more information please visit www.TyHD47.com

Weekly Wormhole mtn. bike meetup

TRINIDAD— Join Tarantula Cycles for a weekly Mountain bike meetup this Friday, Sept. 16 at 6:30 p.m. and every Friday, weather  permitting. All abilities are welcome to join. We’ll convene around 6:30 p.m. at the Wormhole Trailhead,. Ride at your own pace up or down around Crossbed and then reconvene in the lot to hang out and maybe have a toast afterwords.

Veterans Free Resource Fair

TRINIDAD— Saturday, Sept. 17, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Veterans Free Resource fair, at Fort Wooton. Live music by Barn Burners, Hungry Buffalo Food Truck, sponsored by Las Animas County Veterans Council and Medicare mentors. Please contact Katrina Lee 719-429-8028 for more information. Sponsored by; L.A.C.V.C and Medicare Mentors LLC.

Ribbon Cutting for M Square

TRINIDAD— Join the Trinidad and Las Animas County Chamber of Commerce in the ribbon cutting ceremony for M Square. The celebration will take place on Saturday, Sept. 17 at 10 a.m. at M Square inside the Market Place, 326 North Commercial Street, Trinidad. M Square is the newest business to open up in the Market Place featuring fresh, local sourced food including but not limited to sandwiches, tacos and soups.

Benefit concert for ABC Disability

TRINIDAD— Join us on Saturday, Sept. 17 at The Well and Tap room for the benefit concert for ABC Disability. At 5 p.m. we’ll have a meet and greet sensory friendly for the children. At 7 p.m. the concert will start with music by Paul Robinson Band, EarBones, Good Question Band, Vibez, WTF- Watch Them Fall and Kevin Cosmico. This event will require the adults to have wrist bands. Advanced Tickets are $18 for the event and $25 for the event and a meal! Day of Event tickets at the door are $30 with meal and $20 for just the show.  Then 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Dance the night away with DJ Spacely. Info at ABC Disability on FB, all proceeds goes to help ABC Disability Support Group.

Mt. Carmel Fall Fest

TRINIDAD— Mt. Carmel Wellness & Community Center, 911 Robinson Ave, Trinidad presents Fall Fest ‘22 on Saturday, Sept. 17. Beer, food, fresh roasted green chile and Music by Whiskey Creek. The fun starts at 5 p.m. and music starts at 7 p.m.

Business Showcase Luncheon

TRINIDAD—Business Showcase (Luncheon), Trinidad State College Pioneer Room on Wednesday, Sept. 21 from 12 – 1 p.m. Register at www.tlacchamber.org under events. Info- 719-846-9285 or email chamber@tlacchamber.org for more information.

Paint in the park

TRINIDAD— Paint with locally based artist and illustrator, Dara Cochran on Friday, Sept. 23 from 4 – 6 p.m. at Fisher Peak State Park. Learn some basics about watercolor/ Plien air painting, ink washes, charcoal techniques and creating art while in nature. Sign up today via email at fisher.peak.co.us.

Book lecture is Mr. Yee

AGUILAR—The library will be hosting a book event with Aguilar’s author, Gary Yee. Mr. Yee will be giving a lecture on his latest book, “World War ll Snipers; The Men, Their Guns, Their Stories” Please join us Saturday, Sept. 24  at 12:30 p.m. Please join us for this special informative event! The Aguilar Public Library is located at 146 W Main St.

COLFAX

Boca Trail hike

CAPULIN—Did you miss last Saturday’s ranger-led hike on the Boca Trail? No worries, we will be doing it again this Saturday, Sept. 17 at 9:30 a.m. To save time, we will meet at the picnic area and start from there for a 1 – 3/4 hour hike. You’ll see the last of the wildflowers, collapsed lava tubes, trenches, and a lava cascade, not to mention, great scenery. Meet Ranger Kathryn at  for a 2-mile round trip hike. Be sure to wear long pants, hat, sunscreen, hiking boots, and bring water and salty snacks.

Night Sky Viewing

CAPULIN— Come and enjoy the amazing night sky at Capulin Volcano on Saturday, Sept. 17 at 7:30 p.m. 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/mask, and your curiosity for an out of this world experience. No reservation needed. If you would like more information please visit www.nps.gov/cavo/planyourvisit/astronomy.

Booster Club Spaghetti Dinner

RATON—Join us for the Raton Tigers Booster Club Spaghetti Dinner on Sunday, Sept. 18 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. at Raton School. $10 per meal and includes spaghetti, side salad, garlic bread, desert and a drink. Tickets can be purchased at Farmers Insurance in Raton or from any athlete, coach or booster club member. All proceeds go to all the Raton Public School athletes.

Tiger Booster Club tournament

RATON—Join us in supporting the Raton Tiger Boosters Club and help raise funds to assist our local athletes. Saturday, Sept. 24, 9 a.m. shotgun start time for this three person scramble tournament. To enter and reserve carts please call the pro shop at 575-445-8113.

Upcoming Events for September 8th, 2022

Our world

Medical students in need of housing

OUR WORLD— Southeastern Colorado AHEC is looking for host homes for medical students.  Students need a private bedroom with a lock and access to a bathroom and kitchen, and will stay between 25 and 112 nights.  Students provide their own linens, towels, and food, and they do pay rent.  Counties served include Huerfano and Las Animas.  For more info, contact SECAHEC student housing coordinator Debra Ball at 719-544-7833 or email debra.ball@secahec.org.

Love is a Joyful Noise- Concert

HUERFANO/LAS ANIMAS— You are invited to the Sangre de Cristo Vocal Arts Ensemble’s presentation of their summer Songfest concert of Spirituals, Gospel and Grace, “Love is a Joyful Noise”, and you have three venues to choose from!  Friday, Sept. 9, 6 p.m. at the La Veta United Methodist Church, 416 S. Main St., La Veta. Saturday, Sept. 10, 6 p.m. at Villa Jubilee, 3001 County Rd. 330, Walsenburg; Sunday, Sept. 11, 2 p.m.  at the  Apishapa Valley Chapel, 309 S. Romero St., Aguilar.  Please call 719-742-5333 for directions and more information.  As usual, we’ll have a concert full of downright, upliftin’, finger-snappin’, foot-tappin’, hand-clappin’ FUN.  Come join us, one and all! As always, admission is FREE.

HUERFANO

Huerfano County Youth Soccer

HUERFANO— It’s time for soccer! Join friends, family and classmates in learning the beautiful game this Fall in both La Veta and Walsenburg with the Huerfano County Parks and Recreation Department. Age Groups– 4-6 ,7-9, 10-12. Practices will be Monday and Thursday 4:30 – 6 p.m. in  La Veta at the baseball field on Main Street and in Walsenburg at Fiesta Park Softball and Baseball Fields. All games will be in Walsenburg at Fiesta Park on Saturdays, Sept. 24 – Oct 29. Just $40 for six weeks of play fun and surprises!
Register https://secure.rec1.com/CO/huerfano-county-co/catalog

Eagles Ladies Auxiliary 1187 meeting change

WALSENBURG— The Walsenburg FOE 1187 Auxiliary has changed their September meeting dates due to the holiday weekend on Sept. 2. Meetings are now scheduled for Sept. 9 and Sept. 23. The group welcomes new members.
To learn more, please contact the secretary, Deb Montoya at debymontoya@yahoo.com.

First Time Homebuyer Class

WALSENBURG—Why buy when you can rent? Join us on Thursday, Sept. 8 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. for this free class and learn about buying your first home. Classes are CHFA approved and meet HUD Certification requirements. Code of the West will provide lunch, all attendees are welcome whether working with a COTW agent, an outside agency or none at all. For more information and to register please go to www.nwsoco.org

Beer release party

LA VETA—Join us on Thursday, Sept. 8 from 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. at Mountain Merman Brewing Company in La Veta for a special beer release, La Veta Trails Ale. A collaboration between La Veta Trails and Mountain Merman, profits from the beer and T-shirt sales will benefit the nonprofit organization.

Experimental Drawing and Painting

LA VETA—La Veta School of the Arts 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, CO from Friday, Sept. 9, through Friday, Sept. 16.   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.  You’ll also learn color mixing, recognizing and capitalizing on your own marks, compositional excellence and much more. 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

Flicks at the Spanish Peaks Library

WALSENBURG—Spanish Peaks Library presents Flicks at the Library, Friday Sept. 9 at 1:30pm.  This month’s tween selection is Holes, starring Sigourney Weaver, Jon Voight and Patricia Arquette. A boy is wrongfully sent to a brutal camp, where the camp warden and her staff force the children in their care to mysteriously dig holes all day long in the desert. Their rehabilitation is questioned, as they think something sinister is involved. Free popcorn is available and BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage) is encouraged.  We hope to see you there!

Shelvis and the Roustabouts

WALSENBURG—Join us on Friday, Sept 9. at 6 p.m. for Shelvis and the Roustabouts at Miner’s Plaza, Downtown Walsenburg. Voted Denver’s Best Band (2019) by the readers of 5280 Magazine, Shelvis and the Roustabouts are an energetic Rockabilly/Americana band that consistently sells out to delighted fans.

Jenny Bird at La Veta Merc

LA VETA— Jenny Bird has been called “the most passionate performer in the new folk genre.” The stage is her second home where she’s been presenting her original songs since the age of ten. Professionally managed as a teenager, Jenny lived and recorded in Germany and Belgium. For the last 20 years, she’s toured widely and consistently, playing festivals and clubs across Europe, Canada, and the United States. She is well respected in her home town of Taos, New Mexico where she records and teaches music. She’ll be playing for us
Friday, Sept. 9, 7 p.m. at La Veta Mercantile. Advance tickets $15; Day of show $18  https://www.simpletix.com/e/jenny-bird-tickets-111288

Weekend movie at the FOX

WALSENBURG— The historic Fox Theatre’s weekend  movie is “Beast,” starring Idris Elba, rated R with a run time of one hour thirty-three minutes. A father and his two teenage daughters find themselves hunted by a massive rogue lion intent on proving that the Savanna has but one apex predator.   Showtimes are: Friday at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Sunday at 3 p.m. Movie Tickets are $7 for Adults $6 for Students and Teachers $5 for Children (age five to twelve) and Seniors

Mini-Donkey and Mini-Mule Education Program, Saturday

WALSENBURG— In honor of Girl Scouts Love State Parks day, come meet and learn about Bunny, Toby and Molly, two rescued mini-donkeys and a mini-mule. Carol Queener and Larry Berg will be sharing about mules and donkeys and special considerations for having minis, especially those that have been rescued. And, if you know any girl scouts or girls interested in becoming girl scouts, bring ‘em along. This free program is open to the public. It happens Saturday, Sept. 10 at 11 a.m. at the Martin Lake Swim Beach Overflow Parking near the Alamosa Group Site. 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.

Mountain Mining Days

WALSENBURG— Join us for the annual Mountain Mining Days on Saturday, Sept. 10 from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. at Miners Plaza in Walsenburg.The day is opening with an oral history of mining in the region followed by JMHS Panther Drumline and the El Fandango. Live music by Travelin’ Rose Band, Dynamix, The Trace and Pete Walker. Food, arts, crafts, face painting, vendors and bear carving. Sponsored by Bachman & Associates, Crafty Canary Brewery, United Mine Workers Association, 711 and J sons & Wyld.

Sights & Sounds of Colorado Wildlife

WALSENBURG— In honor of Girl Scouts Love State Parks day, come explore the sights and sounds of Colorado Wildlife with Colorado’s longest-serving game warden Bob Holder. Bob is known for his caring concern for bears and all Colorado wildlife, as well as his caring for people and what it means to live among wildlife that is essential to healthy ecosystems. Bob’s educational programs are fun and packed with information and a huge heart. And, if you know any girl scouts or girls interested in becoming girl scouts, bring ‘em along. This free program is open to the public. It happens Saturday, September 10 at 2:30 p.m. in 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.

Sunday afternoon salon for history  lovers at La Veta Library

LA VETA— On Sunday, Sept. 18 at 2 p.m. the Huerfano County Historical Society will present a slide show of historic photos of the La Veta area in the early 1900’s from the W. A. Campbell collection at the La Veta Library. Photos from the Campbell, Kreutzer and Hamilton families will be featured. A $5 donation is suggested.

Chris Arellano at Deer Print La Veta

LA VETA—Join the Arellano brothers Sunday, Sept. 11 4 p.m. at the Deerprint Wine Bar. Chris Arellano’s deeply personal Americana weaves together the Norteno music of his Northern New Mexico upbringing with Alternative Country and Blues influences-for a signature style that he calls Nuevo Americana. Fused with song and story, Spanish and English, his transcendent lyrics move listeners with emotion and passion. Chris’ ability to play multiple stringed instruments has kept him busy as a Nashville session musician and Producer.   $18 advance. $20 day of show https://www.simpletix.com/e/chris-arellano-tickets-111874 or http://www.chrisjarellano.

Peakview coat drive

WALSENBURG—This year has been really tight for a lot of families. With winter around the corner, the Chucka Agency of Farmers Insurance is conducting a winter coat drive for the kids at Peakview School. The children range in ages of 3-12 years old. Please bring all gently used winter coats you may have; and they must be clean. Donations will be accepted Sept. 12 through Oct. 12, at the Chucka Agency, located at 622 S Albert St, Monday-Wednesday 10 am to 3 pm. If you have any questions, please call the Chucka Agency at 719-738-9955.

Medicare Vs. Medicaid- Workshop

WALSENBURG— These two government agency programs are part of life for most older Americans. Despite their great benefit, there are differences and you need to know them, especially with the Medicare Advantage Program. Join us for this free workshop on Wednesday Sept. 14 from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the Spanish Peaks Library Community room in Walsenburg. Presenters are David Tesitor from DATCO and Elisa Ingoldby C.S.A from Boies-Ortega Funeral Home. Pre-Enrollment starts Oct 15, don’t miss this workshop.

Wonderful Weed Walks & Fun Flower Frolics with Bob Kennemer

LA VETA— Wednesday Wonderful Weed Walks & Fun Flower Frolics with Bob Kennemer. It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood… to learn more about the wild flowers, weeds, edible, medicinal, useful, and poisonous plants in your neighborhood! Local naturalist and environmental interpreter, Bob Kennemer will guide you on a gentle stroll through the parks, yards, streets and alleys of La Veta identifying wild plants. This program is for all ages (16 and up) and runs about an hour or a bit more. Bring a notepad, water, and questions. $5 to participate and kids are free but must be with an adult, meet in front of the library and *please be prompt!. For more information please email bobkennemer@gmail.com. Join us Wednesdays, beginning Aug. 31 from 5 p.m. – 6 p.m. and running through September.

American Legion Post 16 meeting

HUERFANO—Huerfano Post 16 of The American Legion will have their monthly meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 14, 6 p.m. at the Walsenburg Housing Authority Office, 220 Russell Ave. in Walsenburg. We will be making plans for The Museum of Friends Display on Saturday, September 17th and Oktoberfest on Saturday, October 1st, in La Veta. All Veterans are invited and encouraged to attend the meeting. The 2023 membership cycle is underway and would like to have you as a member of the only veterans organization in Huerfano County! If you have any questions, please call Dave Rogers 719-738-9965.

For The Birds – First in a two part art series

WALSENBURG— This first class will consist of sculpting your favorite birds from air dry clay.  Wooden bases will be supplied to mount your sculptures on.  The second class, coming in October, will be to paint and decorate the birds as fanciful or realistic as you wish.  Instruction by Sandy Johnston and Sandy Dolak. This class will be held at the Walsenburg Housing Authority, 220 Russel St.  Walsenburg on Friday Sept. 16, 1 – 3 p.m. Sculpting tools, clay, and paint will be provided as well as refreshments.  No charge. Please RSVP by Sept. 13 (719) 989-8438 Sponsored by Arts in Society and Mt. Rose Health Center

Huerfanimas- a celebration of Huerfano and Las Animas counties

CUCHARA—Panadero Ski Corporation and Cuchara Mountain Mercantile are hosting Huerfanimas – a celebration of Huerfano and Las Animas Counties. This will be a super fun evening of rock n’ roll, food, and local businesses uniting our beloved Highway of Legends. Headlining is Robbie and the Reckless from Trinidad, and their blend of country and bluesy rock with talented Mason Davis from the Cuchara Valley, opening and showing us how it’s done on the guitar! We’ll have food from Fatt Weller’s and Sexy Pizza as well as businesses from both counties showing off their goods. Thank you to Bud Hut and Urban Smoken for sponsoring our event and supporting live music! Saturday, Sept. 17, Cuchara Mountain Mercantile, Doors open at 4 p.m., Show at 5 p.m., $20 advanced/$25 doors. Advanced tickets are available at skiingcuchara.org with no fees.

4th Annual Half-Marathon, Relay and Fun Run in La Veta

LA VETA— Sunday, Sept. 18, 8 a.m. there will be a half-marathon and/or relay and fun run that begins in La Veta Town Park. The route is out and back, with support volunteers scattered along the route. Prizes, refreshments, and t-shirts. Sign up at Two Peaks Fitness in La Veta.

Affordable health screenings coming to Walsenburg

WALSENBURG—Residents living in and around  Walsenburg can learn about their risk for cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, and other chronic, serious conditions with affordable screenings by Life Line Screening. Huerfano County Community Center will host this community event on Tuesday, Sept. 20  at the Huerfano County Community Center at 928 Russell Ave.  Screenings can check for:
 The level of plaque buildup in your arteries, related to risk for cardiovascular disease, stroke and
overall vascular health.
 HDL and LDL Cholesterol levels
 Diabetes risk
 Bone density as a risk for possible osteoporosis
 Kidney and thyroid function, and more
Screenings are affordable and convenient. Free parking is also available. Special package pricing starts at $159, but consultants will work with you to create a package that is right for you based on your age and risk factors. Call 1-877-237-1354 or visit our website at www.lifelinescreening.com. Pre-registration is required.

SPLD Trivia night

WALSENBURG—Spanish Peaks Library brings you Trivia Night at the Second Street Bar & Grill at the Walsenburg Golf Course. Join us on Wednesday, Sept. 21,  6 p.m. for a fun night of Trivia!  Categories this month are as follows: Round 1 – General Literature. Round 2 – Cartoons of the 80’s. Round 3 – Famous Movie Lines. Round 4 – Visual – Name That TV Show. Round 5 – Deadly Insects. Winning team gets $20 off their table’s tab!  Hope to see you there!

Artists and crafters wanted for Huajatolla Heritage Traditions Market

HUERFANO—Attention Artists and Craft people! Huajatolla Heritage Foundation will host another Traditions market on Saturday Dec. 3 This year it will be at Walsenburg Community Center. Nominal charge of $10 for approximate 8 foot by 8 foot space. Please reserve your space soon. Contact Sandy Johnston at 719-989-8438 or Sandy Dolak at info@hhfoundation.org. Arts, crafts, food, entertainment and more!

LAS ANIMAS

Weekly Wormhole mountain bike meetup

TRINIDAD— Join Tarantula Cycles for a weekly Mountain bike meetup this Friday, Sept. 9 at 6:30 p.m. and every Friday, weather  permitting. All abilities are welcome to join. We’ll convene around 6:30 p.m. at the Wormhole Trailhead,. Ride at your own pace up or down around Crossbed and then reconvene in the lot to hang out and maybe have a toast afterwords.

Trail Work Saturday

TRINIDAD—Join Trinidad Trials Alliance to help maintain and expand our favorite local trials at the Wormhole. Were meeting this Saturday, Sept. 10 at 9 a.m. If you have a favorite tool, bring it along. We will also supply additional tools. For questions and more information please call 719-859-0379.

The Purgatory 4 Adventure Relay

TRINIDAD—The Purgatory 4 Adventure Relay challenges competitors across the country to go halfway to hell and back.  Run through the rugged terrain of Sugarite Canyon State Park in northeastern New Mexico, paddle a course on Lake Maloya at 7,500 feet, bike up to 8,500 feet over San Fransisco Pass and into southern Colorado, and prove your prowess on a challenging shotgun shooting course. Please call the Trinidad Office of Outdoor Recreation for registration at  719-680-4078. Race end celebration at Phil Long Toyota, 105 East Cedar St. Trinidad starting at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept.  10. Vendors, music, food, beer garden, mt bike raffle and more.  Racers, support crews, spectators, family and friends, encouraged to attend.  Open to the public.

ArtoCade Festival

TRINIDAD—Saturday, Sept. 10 join us for our annual ArtoCade Festival. The parade starts at 12 p.m. and goes through downtown Trinidad.  Vendors will be on Main Street from approximately 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Art Cars will be parked on the street after the parade until approximately 4 p.m. CarDango doors open at 6:30 p.m. and entertainment starts at 7 p.m.  We refer to this event as a “Dance/Party/Circus”.  There will be entertainment, dancing, costume & dance contests, silent auction, artist booths and food vendors.  18+ Cost $20  Located at Art Cartopia Museum 2702 Freedom Road  Trinidad CO.

Love is a Joyful Noise- Concert

AGUILAR—Sangre de Cristo Vocal Ensemble, southern Colorado’s Premier Community Choir presents “Love is a Joyful Noise” on Sunday, Sept. 11 at 2 p.m. A concert of Spirituals, Gospels, and Grace, beloved gospel hymns sung by the choir. Join us for a downright uplifting, finger snapping, foot tapping, hand clapping, fun to the max, inspiring and soul-brightening songfest. All are welcome to join this free event held at Apishapa Valley Chapel, 309 S. Romero St. Aguilar.

Philosophy Café

TRINIDAD— Philosophy Café will meet remotely on Monday, Sept. 12, at 5 p.m. The topic this time is “The Philosophy of Sport.” Some questions to think about before we meet: What is the meaning of sport for you, in your life? What is the role of sport in a contemporary society? How do our own sporting activities relate to professional sports? What role do sports play in our individual psyches? In what ways are sports beneficial?
In what ways are they detrimental? What is “cheating”, and is there anything wrong with it? What do you think about performance-enhancing drugs? This will be a remote meeting using Zoom. You must register to join, email Tom Potter at tom.potter@trinidad.co.gov or call 719-846-6841.

Coffee Talk

TRINIDAD—Join us for Coffee Talk on Tuesday, Sept. 13 from 7:30 – 8: 45 a.m. at Noah’s Ark Animal Shelter, 1921 E. Main, Trinidad. Coffee Talk is sponsored by Chamber of Commerce and TSC.  A $5 Chamber donation is appreciated. Building Essential Connections will be here among other  local businesses.

Trinidad Community Chorale Rehearsal

TRINIDAD— The Trinidad Community Chorale is a group fo volunteer singers that perform two free concerts each year at Christmas and in the Spring. We are always looking for more singes. We will begin rehearsals on Tuesday, Sept. 13 at 6:30 p.m. in the Methodist Church at the corner of Broom St. and State St. in Trinidad. We will also have voice part placements on Monday, Sept 12 between 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. Please email us at trinidadmusicassociation@gmail.com for more information.

Veterans Free Resource Fair

TRINIDAD— Saturday, Sept. 17, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Veterans Free Resource fair, at Fort Wooton. Live music by Barn Burners, Hungry Buffalo Food Truck, sponsored by Las Animas County Veterans Council and Medicare mentors. Please contact Katrina Lee 719-429-8028 for more information.

Benefit concert for ABC Disability

TRINIDAD— Join us on Saturday, Sept. 17 at The Well and Tap room for the benefit concert for ABC Disability. At 5 p.m. we’ll have a meet and greet sensory friendly for the children. At 7 p.m. the concert will start with music by Paul Robinson Band, EarBones, Good Question Band, Vibez, WTF- Watch Them Fall and Kevin Cosmico. This event will require the adults to have wrist bands. Advanced Tickets are $18 for the event and $25 for the event and a meal! Day of Event tickets at the door are $30 with meal and $20 for just the show.  Then 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., Dance the night away with DJ Spacely. Info at ABC Disability on FB, all proceeds goes to help ABC Disability Support Group.

Mt. Carmel Fall Fest

TRINIDAD— Mt. Carmel Wellness & Community Center, 911 Robinson Ave, Trinidad presents Fall Fest ‘22 on Saturday, Sept. 17. Beer, food, fresh roasted green chile and Music by Whiskey Creek. The fun starts at 5 p.m. and music starts at 7 p.m.

COLFAX

Casting Call- Trial of the Wicked Witch

RATON—Princesses, monsters and fairy tale folks ages 6-21 we are casting for Trail of the Wicked Witch, directed by Beki Laird with Hugh Yardis and Vinnie Gumlich. Join us on Thursday and Friday, Sept. 8 & 9 from 6 – 8 p.m. at Shuler Theatre. No experience needed and everyone will be included in the trial.

Boca Trail Hike

CAPULIN—Have you ever seen a collapsed lava tube or a trench formed by a volcano? If you want to hike the Boca Trail with a ranger and see these features, abundant wildflowers, and more join Ranger Kathryn this Saturday, Sept. 10 at 9:30 a.m. or a 2-hour hike. We will be hiking 2.5 miles. Please arrive at the Visitor Center at Capulin Volcano National Monument just before 9:30. Be sure to bring water, salty snacks, wear a hat, long pants, and sturdy shoes/hiking boots, and apply sunscreen. Be prepared for sections of heavy brush along the way.

Upcoming Events for September 1, 2022

Our world

Medical students in need of housing

OUR WORLD— Southeastern Colorado AHEC is looking for host homes for medical students.  Students need a private bedroom with a lock and access to a bathroom and kitchen, and will stay between 25 and 112 nights.  Students provide their own linens, towels, and food, and they do pay rent.  Counties served include Huerfano and Las Animas.  For more info, contact SECAHEC student housing coordinator Debra Ball at 719-544-7833 or email debra.ball@secahec.org.

Love is a Joyful Noise- Concert

HUERFANO/LAS ANIMAS— You are invited to the Sangre de Cristo Vocal Arts Ensemble’s presentation of their summer Songfest concert of Spirituals, Gospel and Grace, “Love is a Joyful Noise”, and you have three venues to choose from!  Friday, Sept. 9, 6 p.m. at the La Veta United Methodist Church, 416 S. Main St., La Veta. Saturday, Sept. 10, 6 p.m. at Villa Jubilee, 3001 County Rd. 330, Walsenburg; Sunday, Sept. 11, 2 p.m.  at the  Apishapa Valley Chapel, 309 S. Romero St., Aguilar.  Please call 719-742-5333 for directions and more information.  As usual, we’ll have a concert full of downright, upliftin’, finger-snappin’, foot-tappin’, hand-clappin’ FUN.  Come join us, one and all! As always, admission is FREE.

HUERFANO

First Friday Art Walk

LA VETA — Meet us in the La Veta Creative District on Friday, September 2, from 5 – 7 p.m. for the First Friday Art Walk! Explore shops and galleries; meet local, national, and international artists; and dine at breweries and restaurants! All activities associated with the First Friday Art Walk are free! For more information, contact Kate McCabe at 303.746.8323 or info@lavetacreativedistrict.org. This event is sponsored by the La Veta Creative District, Colorado Creative Industries (CCI), the Town of La Veta, and the Huerfano County Government.

Shawn Brown at Deerprint
 
LA VETA— Shawn Brown, master of the Hammond B3 and Most Soulful Vocalist this side of the Mississippi, learned music while playing Gospel with his family. He has shared the stage with Al Green, Clarence Clemons, Christopher Cross, Earth Wind & Fire, Keith Sweat, Ronnie Earl, Lucky Peterson, and Percy Sledge. Shawn Brown will be playing at Deerprint in La Veta on Friday, Sept. 2 at 6 p.m.

El Fandango at Lathrop State Park

WALSENBURG— To launch your Labor Day weekend, join us for a performance of the wonderful El Fandango Dancers, a local folkloric dance group. This group began as a high school Spanish club in 1938 and has turned into a dance group for all ages. They are expanding this year, starting a new after school dance program at Peakview school. The four current dancers will be competing at an international dance competition September 23 and 24 at CSU Pueblo’s Hoag Hall.  This weekend’s program is free and happens Friday, Sept. 2 at 7 p.m. in the 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.

An hour of dance and nothing else

LA VETA—Come and quiet your inner and outer dialogue while moving to a variety of fun dance rhythms. Bring your water bottle, wear comfortable clothing (masks are optional), and leave your inner critic and inhibitions at the door. Join us on Thursday, Sept. 1 from 7 – 8 p.m. at the La Veta Mercantile and only dance for about an hour, so please be prompt. All ages are welcome, and a suggested donation of $5 helps support the venue. Just to be clear, this is not a social dance party, nor is it a spectator event. Conversations are a distraction to those who came for the music, so if you must talk, please take it outside. Thanks in advance!

Home Cooked Meal Concert

WALSENBURG— Free show this Friday, Sept 2 at 7 p.m. at Miner’s Plaza downtown Walsenburg. This concert is featuring a lot of local artists from right here in Walsenburg and across Colorado. Join us for some great music made possible by the Fox Theatre, Walsenburg.

Eagles Ladies Auxiliary 1187 meeting change

WALSENBURG— The Walsenburg FOE 1187 Auxiliary has changed their September meeting dates due to the holiday weekend on Sept. 2. Meetings are now scheduled for Sept. 9 and Sept. 23. The group welcomes new members.  To learn more, please contact the secretary, Deb Montoya at debymontoya@yahoo.com.

Junior Rangers: Dissecting owl pellets

WALSENBURG— Junior Rangers aged 2 and up. Come learn about owls and how brilliantly their bodies are designed to make them incredibly silent. effective hunters. Then, roll up your sleeves and engage in hands-on exploration of owl pellets. Pellets are regurgitated material, not poo. Owls’ astonishing digestive system allows food to go in one way and come out two ways. They eat their prey whole and regurgitate bits of bone, teeth and fur. This program is free and happens Saturday, Sept. 3 at 9 a.m. Meet near the Swim Beach Playground at Lathrop State Park. Be sure to bring a parent(s) or guardian(s). 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.

Virginia Sanchez (and more) returning to Huerfano County

WALSENBURG—“The other 4-H: Huerfano Honors Hispano Heritage” hosted by Huajatolla Heritage Foundation is pleased to have Ms. Sanchez, noted historian and author, at the Walsenburg Community Center Saturday, Sept. 3 at 11 a.m. to again share her in depth research and understanding of early Hispano history in Huerfano County. Norberto Valdez, PhD, retired Ethnic Studies professors will also present “Mi Querencia: The Importance of Regional Identity and History From 3 – 5 p.m., Michael Rael, from Questa New Mexico will entertain with traditional music of the Southwest for listening and dancing. That will be at the Miners Plaza at 6th and Main in Walsenburg. The day will culminate from 5 to 7 p.m. with the Museum of Friends, 600 S. Main in Walsenburg inviting the community to an opening of the inaugural event of photos of Early Families of Huerfano County. All events are free, and everyone is invited.

Hike: Rock Evidence for the End of the Dinosaurs

WALSENBURG— Curious about evidence for how the dinosaurs died? 66 million years ago a 10-15 km asteroid landed offshore of the Yucatan Peninsula. From the top of the Hogback, we will have an aerial view of Martin & Horseshoe Lakes. These two lakes bear some similarities to a paleo fossil site in North Dakota called the Hell Creek Formation. In that area, lakes sloshing so violently due to the big earthquakes that flash floods buried tons of creatures, which were then encapsulated in the rock record, along with the iridium layer from the asteroid’s fallout. Our guide is geologist/geophysicist Dr. Heloise Lynn. This hike is free and happens Saturday, Sept. 3 at 11 a.m. starting from the Amphitheater. Water, sunscreen and a hat are suggested. 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.

First Annual Fish Fry

LA VETA— Come one, come all to the 1st Annual Fish Fry sponsored by the La Veta Village Ladies Auxiliary and scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 3, from 2 – 5 p.m. at the La Veta Village, 109 E. Francisco, La Veta, CO. $10 per plate for adults; $5 per plate for children 5 years and under. Cat fish and all the fixin’s will be served. Music by Carol Dunn, friends, and Michael Steward. It will be a grand time for all.

Grandote Golf Club grand opening

LA VETA—Saturday, Sept. 3 from 3 p.m. – 9 p.m. at  The Peaks Steakhouse. Join us for free food, drinks, music and dancing. Come see the newly renovated club house and meet the staff. Grandote Golf Club is located at 5540 CO-12 in La Veta.

Opening Reception at SPACe Gallery

LA VETA—Everyone is invited to the opening reception at SPACe this Saturday, Sept. 3, 5 – 7 p.m. Refreshments will be provided and there is no admission fee; however, donations are gratefully accepted. The reception is for two new shows  “Changes-Fall Show” and a solo exhibition of new works by Albert Anderson Clymer. 20 area artists working in a variety of media & styles, with many affordable works of art, comprise the “Changes-Fall Show”. Clymer’s new works reflect his exploration into expressionistic abstraction while still speaking to the plight of Native Americans in the past. The SPACe Gallery is located at 132 W. Ryus, in the La Veta Town Park. Hours are 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Tues. through Sat. Call 719 742-3074 for information.

Remembrance of the 21st year passing of the 911 attacks at MoF

WALSENBURG—It is with great pleasure that the Museum of Friends will feature the works of two unique artists in remembrance of the 21st year passing of the 911 attacks. These exhibits open simultaneously in two ground floor galleries side by side on Saturday September 3rd and run through December 30th, 2022. Please join us for the opening celebration Saturday, Sept. 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. to meet artist Dawn Siebel. On Saturday September 17th at 1 pm please join us for a public program scheduled with our local first responders, firemen and American Legion to commemorate the events of 911. All events are being held at 600 Main Street in Walsenburg.

Movie on the greens

WALSENBURG—  Join the Fox Theatre at the Walsenburg Golf course on Saturday, Sept. 3 at dusk for this week’s movie on the green Cool Hand Luke (PG).
Admission is free and concessions are available for purchase. Donations accepted to help pay for the nearly $2,000 event. Kids activities start at 7 p.m. and the movie starts at 8:30.  Enter Lathrop State Park and follow signs to the golf course. You DO NOT need to pay for a park pass. Access to the golf course is FREE.

A Trek to Mt. Everest Base Camp

WALSENBURG—  Do you love all things mountain? Join us in the Amphitheater for Bruce Johnson’s slide show about his trek to Mt. Everest Base Camp. This program is free and happens Saturday, Sept. 3 at 7:30 p.m. 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.

Wonderful Weed Walks & Fun Flower Frolics with Bob Kennemer

LA VETA— Wednesday Wonderful Weed Walks & Fun Flower Frolics with Bob Kennemer. It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood… to learn more about the wild flowers, weeds, edible, medicinal, useful, and poisonous plants in your neighborhood! Local naturalist and environmental interpreter, Bob Kennemer will guide you on a gentle stroll through the parks, yards, streets and alleys of La Veta identifying wild plants. This program is for all ages (16 and up) and runs about an hour or a bit more. Bring a notepad, water, and questions. $5 to participate and kids are free but must be with an adult, meet in front of the library and *please be prompt!. For more information please email bobkennemer@gmail.com. Join us Wednesdays beginning Aug. 31 from 5 p.m. – 6 p.m. and running through September.

Spanish Peaks Chamber of Commerce meet and greet

HUERFANO—The Spanish Peaks Chamber of Commerce will be having an end of summer meet and greet at the Mountain Merman Brewery Main St La Veta. Guest speakers will be The Panadero Corp from Cuchara and Lathrop State park manager Stacey Koury. The event will be held Wednesday, Sept.  7,  5:30 – 8 p.m.  Hordervers and non alcoholic beverages  will be provided as well as a cash bar. Everyone is welcome! Come find out what is going on in Huerfano county. For information contact info@spanishpeakschamber.com

First Time Homebuyer Class

WALSENBURG—Why buy when you can rent? Join us on Thursday, Sept. 8 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. for this free class and learn about buying your first home. Classes are CHFA approved and meet HUD Certification requirements. Code of the West will provide lunch, all attendees are welcome whether working with a COTW agent, an outside agency or none at all. For more information and to register please go to www.nwsoco.org

Beer release party

LA VETA—Join us on Thursday, Sept. 8 from 4 p.m. – 10 p.m. at Mountain Merman Brewing Company in La Veta for a special beer release, La Veta Trails Ale. A collaboration between La Veta Trails and Mountain Merman, profits from the beer and T-shirt sales will benefit the nonprofit organization.

Experimental Drawing and Painting
LA VETA—La Veta School of the Arts 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, CO from Friday, Sept. 9, through Friday, Sept. 16.   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.  You’ll also learn color mixing, recognizing and capitalizing on your own marks, compositional excellence and much more. 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

Shelvis and the Roustabouts

WALSENBURG—Join us on Friday, Sept 9. at 6 p.m. for Shelvis and the Roustabouts at Miner’s Plaza, Downtown Walsenburg. Voted Denver’s Best Band (2019) by the readers of 5280 Magazine, Shelvis and the Roustabouts are an energetic Rockabilly/Americana band that consistently sells out to delighted fans.

Peakview coat drive

WALSENBURG—This year has been really tight for a lot of families. With winter around the corner, the Chucka Agency of Farmers Insurance is conducting a winter coat drive for the kids at Peakview School. The children range in ages of 3-12 years old. Please bring all gently used winter coats you may have; and they must be clean. Donations will be accepted Sept. 12 through Oct. 12, at the Chucka Agency, located at 622 S Albert St, Monday-Wednesday 10 am to 3 pm. If you have any questions, please call the Chucka Agency at 719-738-9955.

Huerfanimas- a celebration of Huerfano and Las Animas counties

CUCHARA—Panadero Ski Corporation and Cuchara Mountain Mercantile are hosting Huerfanimas – a celebration of Huerfano and Las Animas Counties. This will be a super fun evening of rock n’ roll, food, and local businesses uniting our beloved Highway of Legends. Headlining is Robbie and the Reckless from Trinidad, and their blend of country and bluesy rock with talented Mason Davis from the Cuchara Valley, opening and showing us how it’s done on the guitar! We’ll have food from Fatt Weller’s and Sexy Pizza as well as businesses from both counties showing off their goods. Thank you to Bud Hut and Urban Smoken for sponsoring our event and supporting live music! Saturday, Sept. 17, Cuchara Mountain Mercantile, Doors open at 4 p.m., Show at 5 p.m., $20 advanced/$25 doors. Advanced tickets are available at skiingcuchara.org with no fees.

LAS ANIMAS

Bake sale for Noah’s Ark Animal Welfare Association

TRINIDAD—Join Noah’s Ark for our bake sale on Saturday, Sept. 2 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.  in front of Noah’s Ark Thrift Store and then again from 3:30 – 6 p.m. in front of Sexy Pizza. You know you can’t resist a bake sale for a good cause!

Senior Days at Books & More Books

TRINIDAD—Senior Days at Books & More Bookstore 132 N. Commercial St., Trinidad, CO, will be Friday, Sept. 2, from 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 3, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.  Most items 1/2 price.  Phone is 846-8522.

Hands-on History Fall Kickoff

TRINIDAD—Join us at the Trinidad History Museum on the Historic Santa Fe Trail, Friday, Sept. 2, 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. for a free kickoff event. Hands-on History will be starting up again soon and we want to answer any questions you may have about the program, help with registration and provide a sneak peek of Hands-on History. During the event we weill put together a Colorado themes board game while answering questions about our Monday/Friday program for children grades 1-8.

Weekly Wormhole mountain bike meetup

TRINIDAD— Join Tarantula Cycles for a weekly Mountain bike meetup this Friday, Sept. 2 at 6:30 p.m. and every Friday, weather  permitting. All abilities are welcome to join. We’ll convene around 6:30 p.m. at the Wormhole Trailhead,. Ride at your own pace up or down around Crossbed and then reconvene in the lot to hang out and maybe have a toast afterwords.

Friday Night Live at Trinidad State Park

TRINIDAD—This Friday, Sept. 2 join us at 8 p.m. around the campfire for final Friday Night Live at Trinidad Lake State Park . Our Park Rangers inform and entertain with everything going on in around the Park.

Caveman Music Festival

WESTON—Join us Labor Day weekend at Monument Lake Resort in Weston for the best Americana music in the most beautiful place on earth. Three days of music starting on Friday, Sept. 2 lasting all weekend until Sunday Sept. 4. Musical performers include; Zach Bryan, Big Head Todd and the Monsters, Grace Potter, Lucero, and many more. Three days of music, 20 + artists, hiking, fishing, kayaking and tons of fun. For more information and to get tickets please visit  www.cavemanmusicfestival.com

112th Annual Labor Day Rodeo

LAS ANIMAS— Join us for a weekend of fun at the 112th Annual Rodeo Labor Day weekend, Saturday, Sept. 3 – Monday, Sept. 5 at the Las Animas County Fair Grounds. On Saturday, Sept. 3 at the Phil Long Toyota parking lot there will be a block party and dance with The Classic Country Band playing. Sunday, Sept. 4 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. will be ‘Touch a truck’ fundraiser at LAC Fairgrounds. Monday, Sept. 9 a.m. will be the “Let It Ride” parade downtown Trinidad. For more information please visit www.trinidadroundup.homestead.com

Cooking Along the Santa Fe Trail

TRINIDAD— This Saturday, Sept. 3, 7 p.m. join us at the amphitheater at Trinidad Lake State Park  for a fun evening of contrasting early cooking methods. Experience these two distinctly different cooking methods and sample the food prepared in these unique styles, Dutch Oven and the Horno.

Guided Hike at TLSP

TRINIDAD— Join Volunteer Park Interpreter, Sydnee Waller on the Levsa Trail Sunday, Sept. 4,  8 a.m. This leisurely hike will explore the wonders of the pinion-juniper woodland ecosystem, some local history, and the beginnings of Trinidad Lake. All ages are welcome, but children 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Wear properly fitting hiking shoes. Meet at the Visitor Center at Trinidad Lake State Park.

Trinidad Community Chorale Rehearsal

TRINIDAD— The Trinidad Community Chorale is a group fo volunteer singers that perform two free concerts each yeat at Christmas and in the Spring. We are always looking for more singes. We will begin rehearsals on Tuesday, Sept. 13 at 6:30 p.m. in the Methodist Church at the corner of Broom St. and State St. in Trinidad. We will also have voice part placements on Tuesday, Sept. 6 and Monday, Sept 12 between 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. Please email us at trinidadmusicassociation@gmail.com for more information.

The Purgatory 4 Adventure Relay

TRINIDAD—The Purgatory 4 Adventure Relay challenges competitors across the country to go halfway to hell and back.  Run through the rugged terrain of Sugarite Canyon State Park in Northeastern New Mexico, paddle a course on Lake Maloya at 7,500 feet, bike up to 8,500 feet over San Fransisco Pass and into Southern Colorado, and prove your prowess on a challenging shotgun shooting course. Please call the Trinidad Office of Outdoor Recreation for registration at  719-680-4078. Race end celebration at Phil Long Toyota, 105 East Cedar St. Trinidad starting at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept.  10. Vendors, music, food, beer garden, mt bike raffle and more.  Racers, support crews, spectators, family and friends, encouraged to attend.  Open to the public.

ArtoCade Festival

TRINIDAD—Saturday, Sept. 10 join us for our annual ArtoCade Festival. The parade starts at 12 p.m. and goes through downtown Trinidad.  Vendors will be on Main Street from approximately 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Art Cars will be parked on the street after the parade until approximately 4 p.m. CarDango doors open at 6:30 p.m. and entertainment starts at 7 p.m.  We refer to this event as a “Dance/Party/Circus”.  There will be entertainment, dancing, costume & dance contests, silent auction, artist booths and food vendors.  18+ Cost $20  Located at Art Cartopia Museum 2702 Freedom Road  Trinidad CO.

COLFAX

Dawson Cemetery- A Lasting Memorial

RATON—The Raton Museum presents Dawson Cemetery- A  Lasting Memorial, honoring those who lived, were loved and lost in mining tragedies in 1913 and 1923. On Saturday, Sept. 3 at 2 p.m. Author Nick Pappas, retired journalist will discuss his new book Crosses of Iron. There will be a reception from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. with “Ghost Town” a documentary film by Emily Fraser showing as well at Raton Theater and photo exhibit by robert Sloan. The Raton Museum is located at 108 S 2nd St in Raton.

Gate City Music Festival

RATON—Ready for the Annual Gate City Music Festival? Nestled against the mesas of the southern Rockies along the Santa Fe Trail, Raton, New Mexico at 6680 ft. is the perfect spot to enjoy fabulous music and a taste of the Southwest…  So take a break and come join us! This weekend, Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 3 & 4 at Shuler Theater. For more information or to purchase tickets please visit www.gatecitymusicfestival.com.

Short film showcase

RATON— Join us on Saturday, Sept. 3 at 2 p.m. at El Raton Theater for a celebration of not only Raton and Ratonian teen and adult film makers. To celebrate with the folks in town for the Dawson reunion who will have the opportunity – along with the rest of us – to see “Ghost Town” up on the big screen! There will be other films showing during the Inaugural Short Film Showcase. There are 338 seats in the El Raton Theater, lets fill them all.

Upcoming Events for August 25, 2022

Our world

Community Survey of Older Adults

HUERFANO/LAS ANIMAS— South Central Council of Governments (SCCOG), in association with the Colorado Association of Area Agencies on Aging (C4A) and with funding from SB290, is conducting a survey to learn about the current and future needs of older adults living in Huerfano and Las Animas counties. Your household may randomly be selected to participate. Watch your mailbox. Your feedback is appreciated and will help us understand and plan for the needs of older adults in our community.  If you have any questions about the survey, please contact Veronica Maes, Area Agency on Aging Director at SCCOG at (719) 845-1133 ext. 225 or vmaes@sccog.net. Thank you in advance for your time and participation.

HUERFANO

Huerfano County Communications  Coalition meeting

WALSENBURG—Join the Huerfano County Communications Coalition at the Huerfano County, Community Center in Walsenburg this Thursday, Aug. 25 at 12 p.m. Lunch will be provided. If you don’t know what the Coalition is or what it represents, please call Elisa at 719-738-2152 for further information.
Or join us on ZOOM, Meeting ID: 833 8797 8876, Passcode: 911887

Free bicycle repair clinic

LA VETA— Thursday, Aug. 25, 2-5 p.m., in front of the La Veta Public Library. Get your bike or trike fixed – for free! By the Spanish Peaks Cycling Association. Donations always welcome. Questions, email info@spcycling.org.

Help build the bridges

WALSENBURG—Free taco buffet at the Walsenburg Golf Course on Thursday, Aug. 25 at 6 p.m. The Puentes project is bringing people together for a greater sense of community. We will be joined by a gifted moderator, Adrian Molina and entertained by Tom Munch. The Puentes (Bridges) project is a collaborative effort with the major stakeholders being the local libraries, the Huajatolla Heritage Foundation and Denver non-profit, Warm Cookies. You must RSVP, please text Sandy Dolak at 719-251-1271 to save your space.

Téada at La Veta Mercantile

LA VETA— A traditional band with a truly worldwide reach, Téada has appeared as a frequent headliner at major music festivals throughout the US, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Africa, Russia, the Middle East and Australia. Highlights include a 30,000-capacity stadium concert in Brittany, along with performances at Penang World Music Festival in Malaysia, Edmonton Folk Festival in Canada, Harare International Festival of the Arts in Zimbabwe, and Rainforest World Music Festival in Borneo. Join us Thursday, Aug. 25, 7 p.m.   at La Veta Mercantile. $20 advance tickets, $23 day of show. https://www.simpletix.com/e/teada-tickets-107072

Call for artists

LA VETA—The only constant in life is change. The Spanish Peaks Arts Council (SPACe) is looking for artists to enter the upcoming “Changes” Fall show Thursday – Saturday,  Aug. 25, 26, & 27 at the SPACe Gallery, 132 W. Ryus, La Veta, between 10 am – 2 pm. Show us how you express change. All media welcome. For all the details visit the SPACe website — spanishpeaksarts.org, or call 719 742-3074.

Fundraiser rummage sale

LA VETA—St. Ann’s Guild will host a fundraiser rummage sale on Friday, Aug. 26 & Saturday, Aug. 27th from 8 a.m. –  2 p.m. at the Christ the King Parish Hall in La Veta, CO.  Proceeds will assist the Kimbrel family.  Your support is greatly appreciated!  For more information, contact Jane Jacquart 719-469-2713 or Jeanne Keffeler 719-989-1393

Huerfano Memorial Hospital Auxiliary Holiday Sale

HUERFANO—Huerfano Memorial Hospital Auxiliary is having an end of summer sale, in the Gift shop at SPRHC, Friday, Aug. 26 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Come out and see our Christmas ornaments and various other items.

Exquisitely Polished Metal Fish Sculpture

WALSENBURG—Artists Roger and Catherine Fowler know that there is something magical about the appearance of a fish, with the fascinating combination of complex colors appearing as if they are illuminated from within when seen in direct sunlight. They had a goal to create metal fish sculptures that looked as if they were alive, and they succeeded. Join us Friday, Aug. 26 at 7 p.m. in the Amphitheater at Lathrop State Park for a talk by Catherine Fowler on the process of creating their exquisite metal sculptures. This program is free. 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.

Live music at Miners Plaza

WALSENBURG— Join us downtown Walsenburg for a night of dancing with a live performance by Last Call Romance. Victory rolls, wing tips, and swing dancing highly encouraged. The fun begins on Friday, Aug. 26 at 7 p.m. at Miner’s Plaza, 6th and Main Walsenburg.

Shawn Brown at Deerprint

LA VETA—Shawn Brown, master of the Hammond B3 and Most Soulful Vocalist this side of the Mississippi, learned music while playing Gospel with his family. Shawn’s latest album, Best Blues Money Can Buy, is a mix of Gospel, jazz, and blues. As a cancer survivor, Shawn is constantly doing fundraisers through the Shawn Brown Foundation for families that are stricken financially, emotionally, mentally and spiritually from this horrific disease. Proceeds provide assistance in multiple ways to help the families combat the devastation that comes from not only fighting cancer, but for those left behind. Join us at Deerprint Wine Bar,  Friday, Aug. 26, 6 – 8 p.m. There is no cover for this show.

Weekend movie at the FOX

WALSENBURG— The historic Fox Theatre’s weekend movie is “Emily The Criminal,” rated R with a run time of 1h 35m. Movie Showtimes are: Friday at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Sunday at 3 p.m. Movie Tickets are $7 for Adults $6 for Students and Teachers $5 for Children (age five to twelve) and Seniors.

Hike the Hogback Trail

WALSENBURG— Join Trisha Lootens to hike the Hogback Trail at Lathrop State Park. Experience gorgeous views of the Spanish Peaks, the San Juan Mountains and Martin and Horseshoe Lakes. This 3.5 mile hike includes a combination of flats and a moderate climb to the crest of the Hogback, one of many basaltic dikes formed around the same time as the Sangre de Cristo uplift; the event that pushed up the Sangre de Cristo mountains 27 million years ago. The hike is free and happens Saturday, Aug. 27 at 9 a.m. Meet at the Amphitheater. Water, sunscreen and hat are suggested. 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.

Spanish Peaks community wildfire mitigation meeting

CUCHARA—Collaborative Efforts in the Community to Address Wildfire Risk. Come learn about the ongoing mitigation efforts underway by federal, state, and local government agencies, local fire departments, and regional non-profits. Short presentations by the speakers will be followed by a questions and answers session, as well as time to interact with representatives of the partners in mitigation. We want to hear from you!
Saturday, Aug. 27,  10 a.m.- 2 p.m. at the Cuchara Community Center, 16500 State Hwy 12 in Cuchara Village
Zoom Link: bit.ly/SPAWP_Aug27     Passcode: 380971

Expand your painting techniques with Kim Mackey

LA VETA—Let acclaimed Colorado artist, Kim Mackey, help you develop your imagination and expand your painting technique as you focus on the principles of color, design, value and draftsmanship. His workshop at SPACe Gallery is Saturday, Aug. 27, from 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. with a break for lunch. Artists can work in either oils or acrylics, and will be working from still life and photo references. The cost is $75, with students bringing their own materials. Easels are available. A suggested supply list is available at SPACe or on the website. Receive individual instruction as you really learn to “see” what you paint. To register for the workshop, call SPACe, 719 742-3074 or visit Tues. – Sat. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., or go online and pay by credit card at spanishpeaksarts.org.

Jr. Rangers: Paint your own nature art

WALSENBURG— Junior Rangers aged 2 – 9 years old. Come learn why leaves have veins, just as humans and animals do. Then, paint your own nature art with leaves, sticks, pebbles, feathers and evergreen “brushes.” This program is free and happens Saturday, Aug. 27 at 12 p.m. Meet near the Swim Beach Playground at Lathrop State Park. Be sure to bring a parent or guardian, and wear clothing that is painting-friendly. 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.

A Chinese medicine take on great food for each season

WALSENBURG—  Join us Saturday, Aug. 27 at 8:15 p.m. in the Amphitheater at Lathrop State Park to explore why watermelon and other great foods seem to call to us depending on the season of the year. Debby Shapiro, Lic. Ac., holds a Masters degree in Chinese Medicine. She currently practices acupuncture and Chinese herbology in Lakewood and La Veta. She started her medical career as a nurse. Debby will share a Chinese Medicine take on great food for each season. This program is free. 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.

SPLD Gardening 101
 
WALSENBURG— Join us Sunday, Aug. 28 at 1 p.m.  for our monthly program, Gardening 101.  This month’s topic will be How Have Your Gardens Done This Year?  We’ll discuss successes, failures and how to fix, avoid or expand on those issues.  Weed prevention, insect management and what to do when your veggie garden explodes.  Also, veggies you can plant for a winter garden!

Ken Saydak with Tad Robinson at La Veta Mercantile

LA VETA—You saw them here at the La Veta Mercantile in 2018 as part of Delmark Records’ Rockwell Avenue Blues Band and they are returning on Sunday, Aug. 28 at 6 p.m. Now Tad Robinson, harmonica and vocals, and Ken Saydak, piano and vocals, will bring some of that Chicago fire back in a special duo performance. Following their appearance at the Trinidaddio Blues Festival the night before, they’ll appear on Sunday, August 28 in a 6:00 show that will reunite these lifelong friends and collaborators performing their own unique songs alongside some classic Chicago blues. Rare opportunity to hear world-class soul/blues in a cabaret setting$20 advance tickets, $23 day of show

https://www.simpletix.com/e/ken-saydak-and-tad-robinson-tickets-102588 .

Meet Da Vinci Xi

WALSENBURG—Join us for an open house on Monday, Aug. 29, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. to celebrate the da Vinci Xi Surgical System, the latest advancement in robotic surgery. Guests are invited to enjoy refreshments while participating in demo day robotic simulations at Spanish Peaks Hospital 23500 Hwy 160, Walsenburg. Meet our surgical expert, Dr. Sandeep Vijan, who has completed nearly 700 surgeries with the da Vinci. He and his surgical team will be on hand to answer questions and speak on the benefits.

Craft fair

WALSENBURG—Huerfano Nursery and Garden is hosting a craft fair Labor Day weekend, Friday, Sept. 2 and Saturday, Sept. 3, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event will take place at 704 Walsen Ave in the Nursery and Garden’s arbor, and will feature more than a dozen local artisans. There will be home decor, yard art, gifts, jewelry and more!

First Friday Art Walk

LA VETA — Meet us in the La Veta Creative District on Friday, September 2, from 5 – 7 p.m. for the First Friday Art Walk! Explore shops and galleries; meet local, national, and international artists; and dine at breweries and restaurants! All activities associated with the First Friday Art Walk are free! For more information, contact Kate McCabe at 303.746.8323 or info@lavetacreativedistrict.org. This event is sponsored by the La Veta Creative District, Colorado Creative Industries (CCI), the Town of La Veta, and the Huerfano County Government.

El Fandango at Lathrop State Park

WALSENBURG—Walsenburg’s own El Fandango Dancers will be performing at Lathrop State Park on Friday, Sept. 2 at 7 p.m. in the amphitheater.

Eagles Ladies Auxiliary 1187 meeting change

WALSENBURG— The Walsenburg FOE 1187 Auxiliary has changed their September meeting dates due to the holiday weekend on Sept. 2. Meetings are now scheduled for Sept. 9 and Sept. 23. The group welcomes new members.  To learn more, please contact the secretary, Deb Montoya at debymontoya@yahoo.com.

Virginia Sanchez (and more) returning to Huerfano County

WALSENBURG—“The other 4-H: Huerfano Honors Hispano Heritage” hosted by Huajatolla Heritage Foundation is pleased to have Ms. Sanchez, noted historian and author, at the Walsenburg Community Center Saturday, Sept. 3 at 11 a.m. to again share her in depth research and understanding of early Hispano history in Huerfano County. Norberto Valdez, PhD, retired Ethnic Studies professors will also present “Mi Querencia: The Importance of Regional Identity and History From 3 – 5 p.m., Michael Rael, from Questa New Mexico will entertain with traditional music of the Southwest for listening and dancing. That will be at the Miners Plaza at 6th and Main in Walsenburg. The day will culminate from 5 to 7 p.m. with the Museum of Friends, 600 S. Main in Walsenburg inviting the community to an opening of the inaugural event of photos of Early Families of Huerfano County. All events are free, and everyone is invited.

Remembrance of the 21st year passing of the 911 attacks at MoF

WALSENBURG—It is with great pleasure that the Museum of Friends will feature the works of two unique artists in remembrance of the 21st year passing of the 911 attacks. These exhibits open simultaneously in two ground floor galleries side by side on Saturday September 3rd and run through December 30th, 2022. Please join us for the opening celebration Saturday, Sept. 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. to meet artist Dawn Siebel. On Saturday September 17th at 1 pm please join us for a public program scheduled with our local first responders, firemen and American Legion to commemorate the events of 911. All events are being held at 600 Main Street in Walsenburg.

First Annual Fish Fry

LA VETA— Come one, come all to the 1st Annual Fish Fry sponsored by the La Veta Village Ladies Auxiliary and scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 3, from 2 – 5 p.m. at the La Veta Village, 109 E. Francisco, La Veta, CO. $10 per plate for adults; $5 per plate for children 5 years and under. Cat fish and all the fixin’s will be served. Music by Carol Dunn, friends, and Michael Steward. It will be a grand time for all.

Grandote Golf Club grand opening

LA VETA—Saturday, Sept. 3 from 3 p.m. – 9 p.m. at  The Peaks Steakhouse. Join us for free food, drinks, music and dancing. Come see the newly renovated club house and meet the staff. Grandote Golf Club is located at 5540 CO-12 in La Veta.

Movie on the greens

WALSENBURG—  Join the Fox Theatre at the Walsenburg Golf course on Saturday, Sept. 3 at dusk for this week’s movie on the green Cool Hand Luke (PG). When petty criminal Luke Jackson (Paul Newman) is sentenced to two years in a Florida prison farm, he doesn’t play by the rules of either the sadistic warden (Strother Martin) or the yard’s resident heavy, Dragline (George Kennedy), who ends up admiring the new guy’s unbreakable will. Luke’s bravado, even in the face of repeated stints in the prison’s dreaded solitary confinement cell, “the box,” make him a rebel hero to his fellow convicts and a thorn in the side of the prison officers.
Admission is free and concessions are available for purchase. Donations accepted to help pay for the nearly $2,000 event. Kids activities start at 7 p.m. and the movie starts at 8:30.  Enter Lathrop State Park and follow signs to the golf course. You DO NOT need to pay for a park pass. Access to the golf course is FREE.

Peakview coat drive

WALSENBURG—This year has been really tight for a lot of families. With winter around the corner, the Chuck Agency of Farmers Insurance is conducting a winter coat drive for the kids at Peakview School. The children range in ages of 3-12 years old. Please bring all gently used winter coats you may have; and they must be clean. Donations will be accepted Sept. 12 through Oct. 12, at the Chucka Agency, located at 622 S Albert St, Monday-Wednesday 10 am to 3 pm. If you have any questions, please call the Chucka Agency at 719-738-9955.

LAS ANIMAS
Christmas Cantata

TRINIDAD—Finally!  It is time to start rehearsals for our Christmas cantata!  The public is welcome!  Join us Thursday, Aug. 25, 5:30 p.m. at 200 Broom Street in Trinidad.  Don’t miss out! Be a part of this fun group.

Nostalgic movie night

TRINIDAD—We’re happy to announce the return of Nostalgic Movie Night at the Trinidad Public Library. Our first movie after returning will be; Double Indemnity- A Los Angeles insurance representative lets an alluring housewife seduce him into a scheme of insurance fraud and murder that arouses the suspicion of his colleague, an insurance investigator. Rated PG, run time 1 hr 47 min. Join us Thursday evening, Aug. 25 at 5:30 p.m. downstairs in the Community Room.

Goat head picking at the park

TRINIDAD— Join us on Thursday, Aug. 25 at 6 p.m. for a little puncturevine pickup and pizza! We will meet at the dog park on Linden at 6 p.m., cleanup in and around the doggo zone, and celebrate with a free slice at Sexy Pizza afterwords. We have bags and tools (thanks to Jenn) but please bring your own gloves! Any additional tools you can bring are welcome. Discussion on best tools for the job highly encouraged. Let’s get the dog park feeling good for those little paws! Before the seeds dry up and really get pesky.

Hands-on History fall kickoff

TRINIDAD—Hands-History fall kickoff will be held on Friday, Aug. 26 from 13 p.m. – 4 p.m. at the Trinidad History Museum on the Historic Santa Fe Trail. Come join the fun and learn a bit about the history in our area as we begin to welcome the changing seasons.

Weekly Wormhole mountain bike meetup

TRINIDAD— Join Tarantula Cycles for a weekly Mountain bike meetup this Friday, Aug. 26 at 6:30 p.m. and every Friday, weather  permitting. All abilities are welcome to join. We’ll convene around 6:30 p.m. at the Wormhole Trailhead,. Ride at your own pace up or down around Crossbed and then reconvene in the lot to hang out and maybe have a toast afterwords.

Hoehne Farmers 100 year celebration

HOEHNE—Come join us for our 100 year celebration festivities starting Friday, Aug. 26 through Saturday, Aug. 27. Friday at 7 p.m. Hoehne Farmers take on the  Simla Cubs. Saturday, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. will be the Hoehne school tour and luncheon and at 8 p.m. will be the Alumni-sponsored dance at the Trinidad Golf Course. Be sure to purchase your 100 year celebration t-shirt as well for $10.

Friday Night Live at Trinidad Lake State Park

TRINIDAD—This Friday, Aug. 26 night 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.

Trinidaddio Blues Fest

TRINIDAD—Trinidaddio Blues fest is back again for another great year the weekend of Friday, Aug. 26 & Saturday, Aug. 27. Grammy Nominee and multiple award winning artist Sugaray Rayford and Mark Hummel will take the stage during the weekend as well as Cash Box Kings, Zakk Debono & the Broken Circle, Los Albuquerque Blues Connection and many more! Join us at Main and Commercial St, downtown Trinidad for another year of the blues. This event is free to the public.

Book signing event

AGUILAR— APL proudly announce a Summer book and signing event on Saturday, Aug. 27 at 12:30 p.m. with local author MaryJo Dawson. To date, MaryJo has released eight books in the Sally Nimitz Mystery series. Readers of cozy amateur sleuth whodunits will love these stories. Aguilar Public Library, located at 146 W Main St, Aguilar.

Paint in the park

TRINIDAD— Saturday, Aug. 27,  4 – 6 p.m., Paint in the Park at Fisher’s Peak State Park. Meet in parking area for this amazing painting class at Colorado’s newest state park.. The class fee is $30  and a park pass required. Please contact fishers.peak@state.co.us for more information or to register. The classes will be taught by local artist Dara Cochran.

Geology of the Spanish Peaks Region

TRINIDAD— Saturday, Aug.  27 at   8 p.m. join us in welcoming Steve Kaverman, a certified interpretive guide and Founder of Tourism Champion as he offers insights into the region’s geology, its incredible ancient history, how it is changing today, and what it may be like in the future. Come learn about the seas, volcanos, erosion and asteroids that helped shape today’s scenery at Trinidad Lake State Park at the Amphitheater.

What happened to the dinosaurs?

TRINIDAD— Sunday, Aug. 28, 9  a.m. Steve Kaverman, a certified interpretive guide and Founder of Tourism Champion will lead a walk along the Longs Canyon Trail to a fascinating site. There, you can see evidence of a cataclysmic event 65 million years ago that scientists tell us led to the extinction of the dinosaurs. Along this easy, level trail, you can also learn about plants and animals that are part of Trinidad Lake State Park today. Meet at the Longs Canyon Wildlife Area self-serve Parking lot.

Grand opening of the Sensory Garden

TRINIDAD— Join us on Sunday, Aug. 28 at 11 a.m. for a morning of games, painting and gardening at Alta Vista Alternatives, 415 South Indiana Ave, Trinidad. A free lunch will be provided. This event is hosted by ABC Disability Support Group. For more information please visit www.childrens-services-scdds.mailchimpsites.com.

Free sports physical clinic

TRINIDAD—No appointments necessary for this clinic, just bring all necessary forms completed and signed to Mt San Rafael Hospital and Clinic, 400 S. Benedicta Ave, Trinidad.  Wednesday, Aug. 31 from 8 a.m. –  3:30 p.m. at Clinic Suite A . Please call us 719-846-2206 or visit us online at www.msrhc.com for more information.

Caveman Music Festival

WESTON—Join us Labor Day weekend at Monument Lake Resort in Weston for the best Americana music in the most beautiful place on earth. Three days of music starting on Friday, Sept. 2 lasting all weekend until Sunday Sept. 4. Musical performers include; Zach Bryan, Big Head Todd and the Monsters, Grace Potter, Lucero, and many more. Three days of music, 20 + artists, hiking, fishing, kayaking and tons of fun. For more information and to get tickets please visit  www.cavemanmusicfestival.com

112th Annual Labor Day Rodeo

LAS ANIMAS— Join us for a weekend of fun at the 112th Annual Rodeo Labor Day weekend, Saturday, Sept. 3 – Monday, Sept. 5 at the Las Animas County Fair Grounds. On Saturday, Sept. 3 at the Phil Lonh Toyota parking lot there will be a block party and dance with The Classic Country Band playing. Sunday, Sept. 4 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. will be ‘Touch a truck’ fundraiser at LAC Fairgrounds. Monday, Sept. 9 a.m. will be the “Let It Ride” parade downtown Trinidad. For more information please visit www.trinidadroundup.homestead.com

COLFAX

Night sky viewing

CAPULIN— Come and enjoy the night sky at Capulin Volcano on Saturday, Aug.  27 from 8 p.m. –  11 p.m. Join Capulin Rangers as we break out the telescopes and explore the different planets and distant deep space objects viewable only from the park. Follow red lights from the visitor center to the observing area. Bring warm clothes, a face covering/mask and your curiosity for an out of this world experience.

Mountain magic wellness retreat

VERMEJO— There’s nothing quite like the rejuvenation that comes with days immersed in Vermejo’s high mountain forests, soaking in nature and breathing the crisp pine-scented air. This summer, why not take your fitness to the next level with a small group of wellness-minded, executive peers? Spend four days, Wednesday, Aug. 24 – Sunday, Aug. 28, dedicating to move your body, relaxing the mind, and elevating the spirit at 10,200 feet in elevation in the rustic luxury of Costilla Lodge. For more information and to register please visit www.tedturnerreserves.com

Dawson Cemetery- A Lasting Memorial

RATON—The Raton Museum presents Dawson Cemetery- A  Lasting Memorial, honoring those who lived, were loved and lost in mining tragedies in 1913 and 1923. On Saturday, Sept. 3 at 2 p.m. Author Nick Pappas, retired journalist will discuss his new book Crosses of Iron. There will be a reception from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. with “Ghost Town” a documentary film by Emily Fraser showing as well at Raton Theater and photo exhibit by robert Sloan. The Raton Museum is located at 108 S 2nd St in Raton.

Short film showcase

RATON— Join us on Saturday, Sept. 3 at 2 p.m. at El Raton Theater for a celebration of not only Raton and Ratonian teen and adult film makers. To celebrate with the folks in town for the Dawson reunion who will have the opportunity – along with the rest of us – to see “Ghost Town” up on the big screen! There will be other films showing during the Inaugural Short Film Showcase. There are 338 seats in the El Raton Theater, lets fill them all.

Upcoming Events for August 18, 2022

Our world

Community Survey of Older Adults

HUERFANO/LAS ANIMAS— South Central Council of Governments (SCCOG), in association with the Colorado Association of Area Agencies on Aging (C4A) and with funding from SB290, is conducting a survey to learn about the current and future needs of older adults living in Huerfano and Las Animas counties. Your household may randomly be selected to participate. Watch your mailbox. Your feedback is appreciated and will help us understand and plan for the needs of older adults in our community.  If you have any questions about the survey, please contact Veronica Maes, Area Agency on Aging Director at SCCOG at (719) 845-1133 ext. 225 or vmaes@sccog.net. Thank you in advance for your time and participation.

HUERFANO

Kids skills track field trip with Two Peaks

LA VETA—Thanks to the supreme efforts of Cale Dancho and many volunteers, it’s finally done. We have our very own skills track for kids’ mountain biking! We will be hosting our very first Mountain Biking Fun Friday event at the track, located at Cuchara Mountain Park on Friday, August 19th! We will depart from Two Peaks Fitness in La Veta at 9:30 a.m. and return by 1:30 p.m. Please wear good sturdy shoes and bring a lunch and water. Sunscreen is highly recommended. We will have Patrick Nye, the founder of Downhill Solutions to teach the class. PLEASE be aware, for safety, that this class is for children 8 years old and up. They must be able to ride a bicycle without training wheels! Cost is 10.00 per child if the family has a gym membership and 15.00 for non-gym members. To sign up, please call Sher @ the gym 719 742-3555. Slots for this event are limited so hurry hurry! Helmets will be provided by Two Peaks. Let’s get ready to rumble around the track!

Fridays for Fun at LVSA – Charcoal and Pastel

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, Aug. 19, Vashti Wachterman  will help young artists make surprising marks with charcoal and pastels including fluorescent colors. All young artists will hang their finished works to share with everyone.  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 also available.

Second annual Antiques at the Spanish Peaks Vintage Trailer Rally

LA VETA—Vintage trailers and RVs will again converge on La Veta the weekend of Friday, August 19- Sunday, Aug. 21 for the second annual Antiques at the Spanish Peaks Vintage Trailer Rally.  The highlight of the weekend is the free open house, which takes place on Saturday, Aug. 20 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Many of the units will be decorated inside and out in vintage decor as the owners celebrate trailers built between 1940 and 1979. All are welcome. Food and live western swing music provided by the Swing Dusters will add to the party atmosphere. Anyone who is not a registered guest should park outside the park and walk into the event. La Veta Pines RV Park is located at 226 W Grand St. in La Veta. For info call 719-742-3252.

Crafting a God’s Eye

WALSENBURG— Beautiful yarns from all over the country will be used to craft a God’s Eye. Friday, Aug. 19 from 1 – 3 p.m. at the Walsenburg Housing Authority Activities Room.  220 Russell Ave.  All supplies and refreshments are free.  Instruction by Sharona Nova.  Call 719-989-8438 to RSVP before Aug. 17. Handicap Accessible. Sponsored by Mt. Rose Health Center and Arts in Society.

Flicks at the Library

WALSENBURG—This Friday, Aug. 19, 1:30 p.m., the Spanish Peaks Library in Walsenburg will start a new monthly program, Flicks @ the Library.  We’ll provide the popcorn and movie and you just BYOB-Bring Your Own Beverage.  This month’s movie is Goonies, a film about young friends who discover an old treasure map that takes them on an adventure to unearth the long lost fortune of One-Eyed Willie.  Join us for some Friday afternoon fun!

Ancient Celtic Music & Its History

WALSENBURG— Join us to hear favorite local musicians Carol Queener and Larry Berg playing ancient Celtic music and sharing its stories and history. This program is free and happens Friday, Aug. 19 at 6:30 p.m. in the Visitor Center Multipurpose Room at Lathrop State Park. Because this program takes place at 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 “Bullet Train,” starring Brad Pitt, rated R with a run time of two hours six minutes. Five assassins aboard a fast-moving bullet train find out their missions have something in common. Movie Showtimes are: Friday at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Sunday at 3 p.m. Movie Tickets are $7 for Adults $6 for Students and Teachers $5 for Children (age five to twelve) and Seniors.

Hiking Cuerno Verde Trail

WALSENBURG— Join us for a hike on the paved, highly accessible Cuerno Verde Trail around Martin Lake. Trisha Lootens will lead us on this easy 3-mile loop trail with flat terrain, making it an exceptional place to hike with strollers and wheelchairs. Experience excellent views of the Spanish Peaks and the water. The hike is free and happens Saturday, Aug. 20 at 9 a.m. meeting on the patio at the Visitor Center. Water, sunscreen and hat are suggested. Park passes are required on all vehicles entering the park. Or, $4 for pedestrians entering the park without a vehicle. For questions or more information, please contact Lathrop State Park at 719.738.2376. The park is located at 70 County Road 502, Walsenburg.

Acrylic painting workshop

LA VETA—Coni Grant, distinguished acrylic artist based in Alamosa, is offering an art workshop at SPACe Saturday, Aug. 20, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. for artists who want to learn more about the unexpected advantages of acrylic paints – and push their own work in new directions. Students will work through two projects which teach techniques that can be applied to their own work. The cost is $70. Students provide their own materials, however there is a $5 fee for specialty materials. Easels are available.  For supply list and to register, call SPACe, 719 742-3074 or visit Tues. – Sat. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., or go online and pay by credit card at spanishpeaksarts.org.

Junior Rangers: Rocks, Water, Air & Life

WALSENBURG— For Junior Rangers (usually ages 4 – 16, but all ages welcome!). Join us to explore how in water and in air life is clearly present. Rocks are more like sand and dirt, and they count too! Geologist/geophysicist Dr. Heloise Lynn will be taking us on a hiking adventure of constant change. You will be observing that nothing in the physical world stays the same; there is always a constant cycling of energy and matter (mass or elements). The program is free and happens Saturday, Aug. 20 at 12 p.m. starting near the Swim Beach playground. We will hike some of the Cuerno Verde Trail along Martin Lake. Be sure to bring a parent(s) or guardian(s). Water, sunscreen and a hat are recommended. 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.

Eleanor of Aquitaine: A Queen with a Bone to Pick

LA VETA – The Francisco Center for the Performing Arts is proud to present Eleanor of Aquitaine: A Queen with a Bone to Pick, written and performed by La Veta’s very own Sam Law. Come Meet The queen To whom YOU owe SO much … INCLUDING Democracy! Come hear what this feisty woman has to say for herself about her fabulously colorful life and be the judge of her due acclaim. This performance is one night only, Saturday, Aug. 20 at 7 p.m. All tickets are general admission. Tickets and information are available at www.LaVetaTheaterWeb.org The Francisco Center for the Performing Arts is located at 127 W. Francisco St. in La Veta.

Acoustic Guitar with Jaquie Gipson

WALSENBURG— Join us for an evening of acoustic guitar with Jaquie Gipson. Jaquie plays six and twelve string acoustic guitar. Her music incorporates melodic two hand tapping and percussion techniques into more or less traditional fingerstyle playing.  This style is sometimes called “Touche Guitar.” A reviewer had this to say about Jaquie; “She creates a musical place where all are welcome. Jaws will eventually drop as she commands her instrument.”  This program is free and happens Saturday, Aug. 20 at 7 p.m. at the Amphitheater in Lathrop State 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.

Acoustic Eidolon at La Veta Mercantile

LA VETA—Acoustic Eidolon, featuring Joe Scott on double neck guitjo and Hannah Alkire on cello are from Colorado and have graced stages throughout the US, Europe, Australia and Canada. With eleven CDs and a DVD to their credit, these masterful artists continue to captivate audiences throughout the world with their signature “new acoustic” sound and boundless possibilities in blending Celtic, Folk, World & Latin music influences, something that Dirty Lineoped his own style and technique, playing both necks simultaneously. Join us on Saturday, Aug. 20, 7 p.m.  at La Veta Mercantile, 300 S Main St, La Veta. $18 advance tickets, $20 day of show. https://www.simpletix.com/e/acoustic-eidolon-tickets-102331

Movie on the greens

WALSENBURG—  Join the Fox Theatre at the Walsenburg Golf course on Saturday, Aug. 20 at dusk for this week’s movie on the green, Hell or High Water (R). Toby is a divorced father who’s trying to make a better life for his son. His brother Tanner is an ex-convict with a short temper and a loose trigger finger. Together, they plan a series of heists against the bank that’s about to foreclose on their family ranch. Standing in their way is Marcus, a Texas Ranger who’s only weeks away from retirement.
Admission is free and concessions are available for purchase. Donations accepted to help pay for the nearly $2,000 event. Kids activities start at 7 p.m. and the movie starts at 8:30.  Enter Lathrop State Park and follow signs to the golf course. You DO NOT need to pay for a park pass. Access to the golf course is FREE.

Peach pickup reminder

LA VETA— For those who have already placed orders for those delicious, #1 Palisade peaches through La Veta United Methodist Church— this is just a reminder that your order will be ready for pickup on Sunday, Aug. 21,  between 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. See you then!

Rupert Wates at Deerprint in La Veta

LA VETA— Rupert Wates’ music is an eclectic mix of acoustic, melodic art/folk, with flavors of jazz, vaudeville and cabaret. Despite Wates’ British background, and underpinning the universality of his music’s appeal, Folk And Acoustic Music Exchange has called him “a prime figure in American music.” He was voted an Artist Of The Year in both 2013 and 2016 by the international house concert network ConcertsInYourHome.com, and for five years running he has been the most booked performer on their database of several hundred artists. Join us Sunday, Aug. 21, 4-6 p.m. at Deerprint Wine Bar in La Veta. $15 advance tickets, $18 day of show. https://www.simpletix.com/e/rupert-wates-tickets-102328

Free bicycle repair clinic

LA VETA— Thursday, Aug. 25, 2-5 p.m., in front of the La Veta Public Library. Get your bike or trike fixed – for free! By the Spanish Peaks Cycling Association. Donations always welcome. Questions, email info@spcycling.org.

Téada at La Veta Mercantile

LA VETA— A traditional band with a truly worldwide reach, Téada has appeared as a frequent headliner at major music festivals throughout the US, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Africa, Russia, the Middle East and Australia. Highlights include a 30,000-capacity stadium concert in Brittany, along with performances at Penang World Music Festival in Malaysia, Edmonton Folk Festival in Canada, Harare International Festival of the Arts in Zimbabwe, and Rainforest World Music Festival in Borneo. Join us Thursday, Aug. 25, 7 p.m.   at La Veta Mercantile. $20 advance tickets, $23 day of show. https://www.simpletix.com/e/teada-tickets-107072

Call for Artists

LA VETA—The only constant in life is change. The Spanish Peaks Arts Council (SPACe) is looking for artists to enter the upcoming “Changes” Fall show Thursday – Saturday,  Aug. 25, 26, & 27 at the SPACe Gallery, 132 W. Ryus, La Veta, between 10 am – 2 pm. Show us how you express change. All media welcome. For all the details visit the SPACe website — spanishpeaksarts.org, or call 719 742-3074.

Expand your painting techniques with Kim Mackey

LA VETA—Let acclaimed Colorado artist, Kim Mackey, help you develop your imagination and expand your painting technique as you focus on the principles of color, design, value and draftsmanship. His workshop at SPACe Gallery is Saturday, Aug. 27, from 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. with a break for lunch. Artists can work in either oils or acrylics, and will be working from still life and photo references. The cost is $75, with students bringing their own materials. Easels are available. A suggested supply list is available at SPACe or on the website. Receive individual instruction as you really learn to “see” what you paint. To register for the workshop, call SPACe, 719 742-3074 or visit Tues. – Sat. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., or go online and pay by credit card at spanishpeaksarts.org.

SPLD Gardening 101
 
WALSENBURG— Join us Sunday, Aug. 28 at 1 p.m.  for our monthly program, Gardening 101.  This month’s topic will be How Have Your Gardens Done This Year?  We’ll discuss successes, failures and how to fix, avoid or expand on those issues.  Weed prevention, insect management and what to do when your veggie garden explodes.  Also, veggies you can plant for a winter garden!

LAS ANIMAS

Kocktails with Kiwanis

TRINIDAD— Please join us for Kiwanis meet up on Thursday, Aug. 18 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at Trinidad Smokehouse, 225 W. Main St, Trinidad. Food and drink will be available for purchase. Kocktails with Kiwanis is  hosted by Lt. Governor Carol Chiarito, Jeff Mangino and Jon Mangino

Trinidad Lake master plan meeting

TRINIDAD—The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is in the process of revising the Trinidad Lake Master Plan (MP) and will be hosting a public meeting to kick-off the effort and begin receiving comments and feedback.
A public meeting will be held on Thursday, Aug. 18, from 6 – 8 p.m. in the Pioneer Room of the Sullivan Center, Trinidad State College – 600 Prospect, Trinidad, CO 81082. Themeeting will provide information regarding the revision content and process and a general schedule. A 30-day public comment period will begin Aug. 18, and end Sep. 17 to send comments, suggestions, and concerns during this time. Public participation is critical to the successful revision of the MP. Information provided at the open house, including the existing MP, may be viewed on the Albuquerque District website at the following link beginning August 18, 2022: https://www.spa.usace.army.mil/…/Trinidad-Lake/Master-Plan. Comments can be submitted in writing at the scheduled open house; mailed to Kim Falen, Trinidad Lake Manager, 10950 County Rd 18.3 Trinidad, CO 81082-8904; or sent via email to: Trinidad@usace.army.mil

Car & pet wash and bake sale for Holy Trinity Academy

TRINIDAD— Dirty car? Smelly Dog? Come support HTA at Buster Car and Pet Carwash at 404 University St, Trinidad on Friday, Aug. 19 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. There will also be lots of delicious treats to buy at the bake sale. All proceeds will towards the Holy Trinity Academy and its students.

Weekly Wormhole mountain bike meetup

TRINIDAD— Join Tarantula Cycles of a weekly Mountain bike meetup this Friday, Aug 19 at 6:30 p.m. and every Friday, weather  permitting. All abilities are welcome to join. We’ll convene around 6:30 p.m. at the Wormhole Trailhead,. Ride at your own pace up or down around Crossbed and then reconvene in the lot to hang out and maybe have a toast afterwords.

Free sports physical clinic

TRINIDAD—No appointments necessary for this clinic, just bring all necessary forms completed and signed to Mt San Rafael Hospital and Clinic, 400 S. Benedicta Ave, Trinidad. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 19 -22 from 9 a.m. –  2:30 p.m. in Suite E and Wednesday, Aug. 31 from 8 a.m. –  3:30 p.m. at Clinic Suite A . Please call us 719-846-2206 or visit us online at www.msrhc.com for more information.

Friday Night Live at Trinidad Lake State Park

TRINIDAD—This Friday, Aug. 19 night 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.

Fire mitigation presentation

AGUILAR—Potential fire behavior in your area and ways to mitigate it, presented by Paul Minow, retired BLM. Join us on Saturday, Aug. 20 from 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.at the Spanish Peaks Fire Department, 121 Main St. Aguilar. Paul will talk about areas of concern in your community, including local fuel sources. He will discuss what potential fire behavior would be present and strategies for mitigation with an extensive Q&A session. Sponsored in partnership with AIM/CCO and the Spanish Peaks Alliance for Wildfire Protection (SPAWP).

Trinidad Autism Organization dance

TRINIDAD—Join us at Fort Wooton Veterans Memorial Square in Trinidad for our Annual Autism Organization Dance with music by Cappellucci Brothers. The fun begins at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 20, don’t forget your dancing shoes!

Stars on Carpios Ridge, A Star Party
 
TRINIDAD— Carpios Ridge is a great dark sky location.  Join Dr. Robert Philbin, Astronomy & Physics Professor, from Trinidad State Junior College, at the amphitheater for an evening of night sky viewing on Saturday, Aug. 20 at 8 p.m. We’ll look for meteors, planets, and other galactic wonders. This live astronomy program will feature Saturn, the summer constellations Scorpius and Sagittarius and the asterism called Summer Triangle.

Guided hike in Longs Canyon

TRINIDAD—Join Volunteer Park Interpreter, Sydnee Waller on the Longs Canyon Watchable Wildlife Trail. This leisurely hike will explore the wonders of the pinion-juniper woodland and adjoining river riparian ecosystems on Sunday, Aug. 21  8 a.m.  Participants will hike to the KT boundary site and the wildlife blinds nearby.  All ages are welcome, but children 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Wear properly fitting hiking shoes. Meet at the Longs Canyon self-serve parking lot to begin this adventure.

Christmas Cantata

TRINIDAD—Finally!  It is time to start rehearsals for our Christmas cantata!  The public is welcome!  Join us Thursday, August 25, 5:30 pm at 200 Broom Street in Trinidad.  Don’t miss out! Be a part of this fun group.

Nostalgic movie night

TRINIDAD—We’re happy to announce the return of Nostalgic Movie Night at the Trinidad Public Library. Our first movie after returning will be; Double Indemnity- A Los Angeles insurance representative lets an alluring housewife seduce him into a scheme of insurance fraud and murder that arouses the suspicion of his colleague, an insurance investigator. Rated PG, run time 1 hr 47 min. Join us Friday evening, Aug. 26 at 5:30 p.m. downstairs in the Community Room.

Hoehne Farmers 100 year celebration

HOEHNE—Come join us for our 100 year celebration festivities starting Friday, Aug. 26 through Saturday, Aug. 27. Friday at 7 p.m. Hoehne Farmers take on the  Simla Cubs. Saturday, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. will be the Hoehne school tour and luncheon and at 8 p.m. will be the Alumni-sponsored dance at the Trinidad Golf Course. Be sure to purchase your 100 year celebration t-shirt as well for $10.

Trinidaddio Blues Fest

TRINIDAD—Trinidaddio Blues fest is back again for another great year the weekend of Friday, Aug. 26 & Saturday, Aug. 27. Grammy Nominee and multiple award winning artist Sugaray Rayford and Mark Hummel will take the stage during the weekend as well as Cash Box Kings, Zakk Debono & the Broken Circle, Los Albuquerque Blues Connection and many more! Join us at Main and Commercial St, downtown Trinidad for another year of the blues. This event is free to the public.

Paint & Sip with the Art Cottage

TRINIDAD—Join us at Club 14 for a night of fun! You will have step by instruction to complete your very own acrylic painting on canvas while enjoying your favorite drink! Cost per painter is $40 due at time of registration. Cost includes all paint supplies and 1 drink. Join us on Wednesday, Aug. 24 at 5:30 p.m. please call or text 719-859-3123 to register. Club 14 is offering a full menu of drinks and food for additional purchase. Instructed by Darci Mincic from The Art Cottage

Paint in the park

TRINIDAD— Saturday, Aug. 27,  4-6 p.m., Paint in the Park at Fisher’s Peak State Park. Meet in parking area for this amazing painting class at Colorado’s newest state park.. The class fee is $30  and a park pass required. Please contact fishers.peak@state.co.us for more information or to register. The classes will be taught by local artist Dara Cochran.

Grand Opening of the Sensory Garden

TRINIDAD— Join us on Sunday, Aug. 28 at 11 a.m. for a morning of games, painting and gardening at Alta Vista Alternatives, 415 South Indiana Ave, Trinidad. A free lunch will be provided. This event is hosted by ABC Disability Support Group. For more information please visit www.childrens-services-scdds.mailchimpsites.com

COLFAX

Raton High School Class of ‘67 Reunion

RATON— There will be a highschool class reunion picnic for the Class of 1967. The reunion will be held on Saturday, Aug. 20 at 12 p.m. at Legion Field in Raton.

Night Sky Viewing

CAPULIN— Come and enjoy the night sky at Capulin Volcano on Saturday, Aug. 20 & 27 from 8 p.m. –  11 p.m. Join Capulin Rangers as we break out the telescopes and explore the different planets and distant deep space objects viewable only from the park. Follow red lights from the visitor center to the observing area. Bring warm clothes, a face covering/mask and your curiosity for an out of this world experience.

Mountain Magic Wellness Retreat

VERMEJO— There’s nothing quite like the rejuvenation that comes with days immersed in Vermejo’s high mountain forests, soaking in nature and breathing the crisp pine-scented air. This summer, why not take your fitness to the next level with a small group of wellness-minded, executive peers? Spend four days, Wednesday, Aug. 24 – Sunday, Aug. 28, dedicating to move your body, relaxing the mind, and elevating the spirit at 10,200 feet in elevation in the rustic luxury of Costilla lodge. For more information and to register please visit www.tedturnerreserves.com

Upcoming Events for the week of August 11, 2022

Our world

CASOA, Community Assessment Survey of Older Adults

HUERFANO/LAS ANIMAS— South Central Council of Governments (SCCOG), in association with the Colorado Association of Area Agencies on Aging (C4A) and with funding from SB290, is conducting a survey to learn about the current and future needs of older adults living in Huerfano and Las Animas Counties. Your household may randomly be selected to participate. Watch your mailbox. Your feedback is appreciated and will help us understand and plan for the needs of older adults in our community. It won’t take much of your time to make a big difference! If you have any questions about the survey, please contact Veronica Maes, Area Agency on Aging Director at SCCOG at (719) 845-1133 ext. 225 or vmaes@sccog.net. Thank you in advance for your time and participation.

HUERFANO

Huerfano County Fair

HUERFANO—Join us at the Huerfano County Fair today through  Sunday, Aug. 14 at the 4-H fair grounds in La Veta. There will be a Saturday night dance on Aug 13 from 8pm until midnight wiht Silver Eagle Band.  $10/couple and $7/single.  For a full list of events please visit www.HuerfanoFair.com

First Time Home Buyers class

WALSENBURG—Why rent when you can buy? Join us for our monthly First Time Home Buyers class on Thursday, Aug. 11 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Spanish Peaks Library, 415 Walsen Ave, Walsenburg. Code of the West will provide lunch, all attendees are welcome whether working with a COTW agent,an outside agency or none at all. Sponsored by Neighborworks Southern Colorado and Code of the West.

Author talk with Virginia Sanchez

LA VETA— On Thursday, Aug. 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”. The 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!

Huerfano Historical Society meeting

WALSENBURG—The monthly meeting of the Huerfano County Historical Society is today at 4 p.m at the Huerfano Heritge Center, 114 West Sixth Street in Walsenburg.  New members always welcome.

Groundbreaking ceremony for the new Walsenburg Jr/Sr high building

WALSENBURG— Friday, Aug. 12 at 10 a.m. join us for the Huerfano School District RE-1 groundbreaking ceremony of the new Walsenburg Junior/Senior High School building. Meet near the flagpole at 355 W Pine St, Walsenburg.

Fridays for Fun at LVSA- Printmaking

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, Aug. 12, Lana Thomas Wachterman  will teach how to make original prints and print duplicates without a press.  This process is easy to learn and beautiful to see.  All Fridays For Fun classes are 1-3pm 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.

Carvin Jones at the Fox Theatre

WALSENBURG—World renowned blues guitarist Carvin Jones, voted in Top 50 Guitarists by Guitarist Magazine, brings his Ultimate Guitar Experience to you! Join us for this amazing music experience on Friday, Aug. 12 at 7 p.m. at Fox Theatre in Walsenburg. Tickets are available at  https://www.carvinjones.com/event-details/carvin-jones-the-fox-theatre-walsenburg-co-1q

Fire ecology, mitigation and suppression

WALSENBURG—Join us for a talk on fire ecology, mitigation and suppression by David Steffan. David was heavily involved in fighting the Spring Creek fire in the watershed. Then, as a local project director for the Arkansas River Watershed Collaborative, he helped guide the subsequent Spring Creek fire recovery and flood mitigation. This program is free and happens Friday, Aug. 12 at 7 p.m. at the 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.

Tips for Happier Hikes

WALSENBURG— Taking care of ourselves and others on hikes and in life can make all the difference AND be lots of fun. Come explore tips for staying hydrated; being cool enough on warm days and warm enough on cool days; taking care of our feet (vital for happier hikes!) and more. We will hike the Hogback Trail as Laura shares what works for her, including during days hiking the Appalachian & North Cascade mountains. And, later in life, walking across the U.S. You are invited to share your tips as well. The hike is free and happens Saturday, Aug. 13 at 9 a.m. starting from the Amphitheater. Water, sunscreen and a hat are recommended. 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.

Sumi and big brush painting class

LA VETA—The La Veta School of the Arts is offering Sumi and Big Brush Painting to be taught by artist, Raquel Dimond on Saturday, Aug. 13 and Sunday, Aug. 14. Raquel has  studied and worked in the art departments of several art magazines before settling here. Raquel’s students will learn about the history and techniques of Sumi painting, as well as the materials needed. All levels of experience are welcome. An introduction to the big brush and regular bamboo brushes will lead to rendering leaves, flower petals, grasses and branches. Sumi ink will be used on rice paper. Students in this class always make beautiful paintings! Cost for this 2-day workshop on Aug 13 and 14 is $150 plus $30 lab fee that will pay for all supplies. Lab fee payable to the instructor at the start of class.. All classes take place at LVSA across from Town Park on Ryus Ave. in La Veta. For more information and to register, please visit www.the LVSA.org or call class administrator Lana Thomas at 719-746-2252.

Junior Rangers: Tips for Happier Hikes

WALSENBURG— For youth, all ages welcome! Feeling comfortable in nature can be one of the best experiences in life. If we are not comfy outdoors, we may miss astounding wonders all around and within us. Being familiar with and practicing ways to take care of ourselves and our group can make all the difference AND be lots of fun. Come explore tips for staying hydrated and nourished; being cool enough on warm days and warm enough on cool days; the importance of taking care of our feet (vital for happier hikes!) and more. We will hike part of the Hogback Trail. This program is free and happens Saturday, Aug. 13 at 12 p.m. at the amphitheater. Be sure to bring a parent(s) or guardian(s). Water, sunscreen and a hat are recommended. 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.

Mushrooms of Spanish Peaks Country with local naturalist Bob Kennemer

LA VETA—The Spanish Peaks area, including the Wet Mountains, and the Sangre de Cristo Range, are home to hundreds of mushrooms. Many are edible, some are poisonous, a few are hallucinogenic, most we know little about. This lecture and slide program will help lift the veil on mushrooms of the area. Foraging dos and don’ts will be addressed, including suggested books and equipment. Several sample mushrooms will be presented. Ways to process and preserve mushrooms will be discussed. Mushrooms are now being used: to make clothing, furniture, medicines, fertilizers, meat substitutes, and to clean up everything from oil spills to radioactive waste. Mushroom expert and pioneer, Paul Stamets has said, “Mushrooms will save the world!” Come learn just what this claim means at the La Veta Public Library on Saturday, Aug. 13, 2 – 3:30 p.m. $10 per person.

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

Stand Still and Look Stupid: Hedy Lamarr Story

LA VETA – The Francisco Center for the Performing Arts is proud to present Stand Still and Look Stupid: Hedy Lamarr Story, performed by Emily Ebertz as Hedy Lamarr and written by Mike Broemmel. This show is one night only, sharing the story of Hedy Lamarr, a “leading lady” during the Golden Age of Hollywood as well as an ingenious inventor. The show is Saturday, Aug. 13 at 7 p.m. and all tickets are general admission and go fast. Tickets and information are available at www.LaVetaTheaterWeb.org The Francisco Center for the Performing Arts is located at 127 W. Francisco St. in La Veta.

Raptor Program with Diana Miller of the Nature & Wildlife Discovery Center

WALSENBURG—Vultures are incredibly important as part of nature’s clean-up crew. They are wondrously and uniquely designed for this job, ridding the landscape of deteriorating carcasses and helping curb the spread of dangerous diseases and bacteria. Come hear Diana Miller of the Raptor Center at the Nature and Wildlife Discovery Center and meet their delightful vulture Lurch. Learn about rehabilitation for wildlife, especially birds of prey. Hear about experiencing an animal’s joy returning to its home and seeing children’s faces when they meet an educational raptor, such as Lurch. This program is free and happens Saturday, Aug. 13 at 7 p.m.. 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 DC LEAGUE OF SUPER-PETS, Rated PG w/ a run-time of 1h 45m. Krypto the Super-Dog and Superman are inseparable best friends, sharing the same superpowers and fighting crime side by side in Metropolis. However, when the Man of Steel and the rest of the Justice League are kidnapped, Krypto must convince a ragtag group of animals to master their newfound powers for a rescue mission. Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. There will be no Friday showing, join us for Calvin Jones instead.

Cuchara Chapel last summer service

CUCHARA—Only one more service this summer. It will be on Sunday, Aug. 14 at 11 a.m. located off Hwy 12. It is the log and stone chapel just south of Cuchara Village. Bring your own chair and join us after for our annual picnic. Please bring your own food, no potluck buffet.

Friends of the Library monthly meeting

WALSENBURG—FOL, Friends of the Library monthly meeting is Sunday, Aug. 14, at 1 p.m., in the conference room of the  Spanish Peaks Library, 401 Walsen. Any one who is interested, you are welcomed. Please remember that FOL will take all your donated books, this helps  us to keep the book sales going. FOL has always appreciated the donated books. We thank you all and hope to see you at the FOL meetings.

Water Conservancy District meeting

HUERFANO—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, Aug. 15, at 6 p.m. The draft agenda for the meeting can be found on the district’s website: www.hcwcd.net

Clean up Main Street, get free ice cream

WALSENBURG—We are pulling weeds and picking up trash between 4th St and 10th St. on Main. Join us Wednesday, Aug. 17, 7  – 10 a.m. and again at 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.  Report to the old gas station on 7th and Main to pick up trash bags. For every bag of trash and weeds one person fills, they will receive one free small scoop of ice cream from Gub Gub’s Ice Cream Express inside the Walsenburg Mercantile. Volunteering never tasted so sweet!

Writer’s Workshop

LA VETA—Colorado Humanities and Huajatolla Heritage Foundation are pleased to partner with the La Veta Library in bringing Annie Toro Lopez to continue our exploration of writing skills. Ms. Lopez is a long-time professional Reading and Writing teacher. She is also the founder of High Prairie Press. “The Writer’s Handbook; An Indispensable Grammar and Style Guide” is her recently published guide for aspiring authors or anyone who finds writing to be part of their daily lives. It is available on Amazon. Come join Annie and be guided through polishing your storytelling and writing skills. The free program will be presented Wednesday, Aug. 17 from 1 – 3 p.m. Direct any inquiries to info@hhfoundation.org.

Second annual Antiques at the Spanish Peaks Vintage Trailer Rally

LA VETA—Vintage trailers and RVs will again converge on La Veta the weekend of Friday, August 19- Sunday, Aug. 21 for the second annual Antiques at the Spanish Peaks Vintage Trailer Rally.  The highlight of the weekend is the open house, which takes place on Saturday, Aug. 20 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Many of the units will be decorated inside and out in vintage decor as the owners celebrate trailers built between 1940 and 1979. Park guests and the public are welcome to join the fun and tour the units during the open house at no charge. Live western swing music provided by the Swing Dusters will add to the party atmosphere and a food vendor will be onsite. Anyone who is not a registered guest should park outside the park and walk into the event as parking is not available on site. La Veta Pines RV Park is located at 226 W Grand St. in La Veta, Colorado. For More Information call the park at 719-742-3252.

Crafting a God’s Eye

WALSENBURG— Beautiful yarns from all over the country will be used to craft a God’s Eye. Friday, Aug. 19 from 1 – 3 p.m. at the  Walsenburg Housing Authority Activities Room.  220 Russell Ave, Walsenburg. This art form was first made in Mexico by the Hurchol or Wixarika people who used them for prayer and protection.  It was given to a child at birth to ensure a life of health and happiness.  We provide all supplies and refreshments at no charge.  Instruction by Sharona Nova.  Call 719-989-8438 to RSVP before August 17. Handicap Accessible. Sponsored by Mt. Rose Health Center and Arts in Society.

Fridays for Fun at LVSA

LA VETA—All children from 6-12 are invited to participate in La Veta School of the Arts summer program. Younger children can participate with an adult assistant.  Friday, Aug. 19, 1 – 3 p.m. Vashti Wachterman will lead students as they play with unusual tools you find at LVSA or bring from home. She will help with making surprising marks with charcoal and pastels including fluorescent colors. Hang up your drawings and share with everyone. If you call ahead (719)742.3421 and leave your name and number, the class is $10. Scholarships are available.

Forest Bathing

LA VETA— Saturday, Aug. 20, 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with Ruth Heal and Bob Kennemer. Meet at the Ease into Peace studio, 200 S. Main Street, La Veta. The cost is $35. Come and spend a morning fully embraced in nature. Allow yourself to be nourished, supported and restored. Learn to notice all that is going on around you, as we wander and sit observing ourselves and nature. You should be able to walk 1-2 miles over moderate terrain. Wear hiking boots/trail shoes. Please bring water, snacks, rainwear, hat, sunscreen and, if desired, a sitting pad. To reserve your spot sign up at www.lavetayoga.com or call or text Ruth on (415) 233 2632. Please call for more information.

Acrylic Painting Workshop

LA VETA—Coni Grant, distinguished acrylic artist based in Alamosa, is offering an art workshop at SPACe Saturday, Aug. 20, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. for artists who want to learn more about the unexpected advantages of acrylic paints – and push their own work in new directions. Students will work through two projects which teach techniques that can be applied to their own work. The cost is $70. Students provide their own materials, however there is a $5 fee for specialty materials provided by Grant and easels are available. A suggested supply list is available at SPACe or on the website. To register for the workshop, call SPACe, 719 742-3074 or visit Tues. – Sat. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., or go online and pay by credit card at spanishpeaksarts.org.

Eleanor of Aquitaine: A Queen with a Bone to Pick

LA VETA – The Francisco Center for the Performing Arts is proud to present Eleanor of Aquitaine: A Queen with a Bone to Pick, written and performed by La Veta’s very own Sam Law. Come Meet The queen To whom YOU owe SO much … INCLUDING Democracy! Come hear what this feisty woman has to say for herself about her fabulously colorful life and be the judge of her due acclaim. This performance is one night only, Saturday, Aug. 20 at 7 p.m. All tickets are general admission. Tickets and information are available at www.LaVetaTheaterWeb.org The Francisco Center for the Performing Arts is located at 127 W. Francisco St. in La Veta.

Movie on the greens

WALSENBURG— Join the Fox Theatre at the Walsenburg Golf course on Saturday, Aug. 20 at dusk for this week’s movie on the green, Hell or High Water (R) Toby is a divorced father who’s trying to make a better life for his son. His brother Tanner is an ex-convict with a short temper and a loose trigger finger. Together, they plan a series of heists against the bank that’s about to foreclose on their family ranch. Standing in their way is Marcus, a Texas Ranger who’s only weeks away from retirement. As the siblings plot their final robbery, they must also prepare for a showdown with a crafty lawman who’s not ready to ride off into the sunset. Admission is free and concessions are available for purchase. Alcohol, burgers, hotdogs, and brats are available for purchase. Donations are accepted. Each movie event cost nearly $2,000 so your contribution ensures our financial success. Kids activities start at 7 p.m. and the movie starts at 8:30. 1399 Co Rd 502, Walsenburg. Enter Lathrop State Park and follow signs to the golf course. You DO NOT need to pay for a park pass. Access to the golf course is FREE.

Peach pickup reminder

LA VETA—For those who have already placed orders for those delicious, #1 Palisade peaches through La Veta United Methodist Church—this is just a reminder that your order will be ready for pickup on Sunday, Aug. 21,  between 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. See you then!

Free bicycle repair clinic

LA VETA – Thursday, Aug. 25, 2-5 p.m., in front of the La Veta Public Library. Get your bike or trike fixed – for free! By the Spanish Peaks Cycling Association. Donations always welcome. Questions, email info@spcycling.org.

Call for artists

LA VETA—The only constant in life is change. The Spanish Peaks Arts Council (SPACe) is looking for artists to enter the upcoming “Changes” Fall show Thursday – Saturday,  Aug. 25, 26, & 27 at the SPACe Gallery, 132 W. Ryus, La Veta, between 10 am – 2 pm. Show us how you express change. All media welcome. For all the details visit the SPACe website — spanishpeaksarts.org, or call 719 742-3074.

Expand your painting techniques with Kim Mackey

LA VETA—Let acclaimed Colorado artist, Kim Mackey, help you develop your imagination and expand your painting technique as you focus on the principles of color, design, value and draftsmanship. His workshop at SPACe Gallery is Saturday, Aug. 27, from 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. with a break for lunch. Artists can work in either oils or acrylics, and will be working from still life and photo references. The cost is $75, with students bringing their own materials. Easels are available. A suggested supply list is available at SPACe or on the website. Receive individual instruction as you really learn to “see” what you paint. To register for the workshop, call SPACe, 719 742-3074 or visit Tues. – Sat. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., or go online and pay by credit card at spanishpeaksarts.org.

LAS ANIMAS  

Diabetes education day

TRINIDAD—Join us for our free diabetes education day on Thursday, Aug. 11 from 12 – 4 p.m. at Champions Building, 127 N. Commercial St, Trinidad. Hosted by Sister Blandina Wellness Gardens. Lunch and materials will be provided. For more information or questions please call Pam Solano, 719-845-4879.

New Image Health and Wellness ribbon cutting

TRINIDAD—New Image Health and Wellness is  having a Ribbon Cutting through the Las Animas County Chamber of Commerce. It will be Thursday, Aug. 11,  5-7 p.m. We will have drawings for gift baskets, back to school book bags, “Men’s Pain Relief and Energy Basket”, “Pamper Yourself” Gift Basket. Come for Root Beer Floats and FUN and see what the inside of the New Image Health and Wellness looks like. Live radio KCRT will be there to add to the fun and excitement. New Image Health and Wellness is located at 417 University St in Trinidad.

Weekly Wormhole mountain bike meet

TRINIDAD— Join Tarantula Cycles of a weekly Mountain bike meetup this Friday, Aug 12 at 6:30 p.m. and every Friday, weather permitting. All abilities are welcome to join. We’ll convene around 6:30 p.m. at the Wormhole Trailhead,. Ride at your own pace up or down around Crossbed and then reconvene in the lot to hang out and maybe have a toast afterwords.

Murder at the Orient Express

TRINIDAD—“Murder at the Orient Express” opens Friday, Aug. 12 at 7 p.m. and runs Aug 12-14 and  Aug 19-21. Fri and Sat at 7 p.m., Sun at 2 p.m.  Murder & mayhem that takes place in a Chinese restaurant run by two Irish sisters and a German waitress.  Appropriate for all ages.  Main Street LIVE, 131 W Main in Trinidad.  Please call  719 846 4762 for more information.

Trail Work Saturdays with Trinidad Trails Alliance

TRINIDAD—Join Trinidad Trails Alliance to help maintain and expand our favorite local trails at the Wormhole! We’re meeting every second Saturday at 9       a.m. throughout the summer. If you have a favorite tool, bring it along. We will also supply additional tools. Bring your own water, sunscreen, and work gloves. This Saturday, Aug. 13, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. is Dog Days of Summer, bring your well-behaved (and leashed) doggos. For questions and more info, contact (719) 859-0379.

Free swim day

TRINIDAD— LACDHS is proud to sponsor, free swim day at the Aquatic Center/Community Center. Join us on Saturday, Aug. 13 from 12 – 4 p.m. for this fun event. Any child(ren) from infant to 19 years old is invited to swim for free. All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Goodbye Summer Hello Fall Festival

TRINIDAD— Come say goodbye to summer and hello to fall the right way. Bring your families out to the Las Animas County Fair Grounds on Saturday, Aug. 13, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. We will have small food items for sale, bounce house, water balloon fight, games, crafts and so much more, fun for all ages!

Benefit Concert for ABC Disability Support Group Trinidad

TRINIDAD—Join us for our benefit concert with your Trinidad friends, local bands, fire-eater, dancers, tarot reading, apothecary and gifts. Saturday, Aug. 13 at 5 p.m. is the meet and great with ABC Disability support group and then the music begins at 7 p.m. Entertainment is sponsored by Faragosi Farms.

Hometown Stories with Jaquie Gipson

TRINIDAD—Saturday, Aug. 13 at 7 p.m.  join us for Hometown Stories with Jaquie Gipson. 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. Activities are rain or shine. The amphitheater is located past the Visitor Center on Carpios Ridge inside Trinidad Lake State Park.

Movie in the park

TRINIDAD—Bring your blankets and chair for a movie in the park on Saturday, Aug. 13 at dusk. Join us at Central Park lower level for this free movie in park. Bring the whole family and your favorite snacks. We will be showing Sonic 2. Questions please call Julie Mattorano at 719-251-6509

Free sports physical clinic

TRINIDAD—No appointments necessary for this clinic, just bring all necessary forms completed and signed to Mt San Rafael Hospital and Clinic, 400 S. Benedicta Ave, Trinidad. Wednesday, Aug. 17 & 31 from 8 a.m. –  3:30 p.m. at Clinic Suite A and Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 19 -22 from 9 a.m. –  2:30 p.m. in Suite E. Please call us 719-846-2206 or visit us online at www.msrhc.com for more information.

Trinidad Lake master plan public meeting

TRINIDAD—The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is in the process of revising the Trinidad Lake Master Plan (MP) and will be hosting a public meeting to kick-off the effort and begin receiving comments and feedback.
A public meeting will be held on Thursday, Aug. 18, from 6 – 8 p.m. in the Pioneer Room of the Sullivan Center, Trinidad State College – 600 Prospect, Trinidad, CO 81082. The public meeting will provide attendees with information regarding the revision content and process and a general schedule. A 30-day public comment period will begin Aug. 18, and end Sep. 17. The public can send comments, suggestions, and concerns during this time. Public participation is critical to the successful revision of the MP. Information provided at the open house, including the existing MP, may be viewed on the Albuquerque District website at the following link beginning August 18, 2022: https://www.spa.usace.army.mil/…/Trinidad-Lake/Master-Plan. Comments can be submitted in writing at the scheduled open house; mailed to Kim Falen, Trinidad Lake Manager, 10950 County Rd 18.3 Trinidad, CO 81082-8904; or sent via email to: Trinidad@usace.army.mil

Fire Mitigation presentation

AGUILAR—Potential fire behavior in your area and ways to mitigate it, presented by Paul Minow, retiredBLM. Join us on Saturday, Aug. 20 from 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.at the Spanish Peaks Fire Department, 121 Main St. Aguilar. Paul will talk about areas of concern in your community, including local fuel sources. He will discuss what potential fire behavior would be present and strategies for mitigation with an extensive Q&A session. Sponsored in partnership with AIM/CCO and the Spanish Peaks Alliance for Wildfire Protection (SPAWP).

Trinidad Autism Organization dance

TRINIDAD—Join us at Fort Wooton Veterans Memorial Square in Trinidad for our Annual Autism Organization Dance with music by Cappellucci Brothers. The fun begins at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 20, don’t forget your dancing shoes!

Trinidaddio Blues Fest

TRINIDAD— The Trinidaddio Blues Fest is back again for another great year the weekend of Friday, Aug. 26 & Saturday, Aug. 27. Grammy Nominee and multiple award winning artist Sugaray Rayford and Mark Hummel will take the stage during the weekend as well as Cash Box Kings, Zakk Debono & the Broken Circle, Los Albuquerque Blues Connection and many more! Join us at Main and Commercial St, downtown Trinidad for another year of the blues. This event is free to the public.

COLFAX

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, Aug. 14 will be our annual picnic. The potluck meal begins at noon, and the worship service will be immediately after the meal. The message will be given by Monte McGowen, Pastor of the Lighthouse Church-Raton NM

23rd Annual Raton International Golf Tournament

RATON—Get ready for the 23rd annual Raton International Golf Tournament sponsored by InBank to be held Friday, Aug. 12 – Sunday, Aug. 14. Three person teams, fights for everyone, modified scramble format features Stableford Scoring. Please call 575-445-8113 for more information.

Gun show and hunting expo

RATON—Join us at the Raton Convention Center at 901 S. 3rd St. On Saturday, Aug. 13 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday, Aug. 14 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Bring an item to trade or sell and get $1 off admission. $ 10 for adults and $9 for veterans, Kids 12 and under are free. Cash paid for military items WWII and earlier. For more information please call 405-503-3665 of email gunshowokie@gmail.com

Raton High School Class of ‘67 Reunion

RATON— There will be a highschool class reunion picnic for the Class of 1967. The reunion will be held on Saturday, Aug. 20 at 12 p.m. at Legion Field in Raton.

Night Sky Viewing

CAPULIN—Come and enjoy the night sky at Capulin Volcano on Saturday, Aug. 20 & 27 from 8 p.m. –  11 p.m. Join Capulin Rangers as we break out the telescopes and explore the different planets and distant deep space objects viewable only from the park. Follow red lights from the visitor center to the observing area. Bring warm clothes, a face covering/mask and your curiosity for an out of this world experience. No reservations needed.

OUT OF OUR WORLD

George McJunkin: Cowboy, Ranch Foreman & Citizen Scientist

SANTA FE  — Join us for a free public education presentation, George McJunkin: A Black Ranch Foreman’s Inspiring Connection to PaleoIndians, a Role Model for Diversity, and the first Pecos Conference, at Pecos National Historical Park’s Forked Lightning Ranch unit, on Sunday, Aug. 14.
In a series of lectures and poster presentations, the event will celebrate the life of George McJunkin, African-American cowboy, ranch supervisor, citizen scientist, historian, and discoverer of the Folsom Paleoindian site. These talks will be held on the centennial of his passing and in conjunction with the 95th anniversary of the founding of the Pecos Conference of Southwestern Archaeology at Pecos Pueblo.

Following the first Pecos Conference in 1927, Dr. A.V. Kidder was called to Folsom, New Mexico to view McJunkin’s find, at which time leading scientists met and confirmed the authenticity and antiquity of the site, demonstrating that Native American ancestors were present in North America during the last Ice Age. New research in 2022 reveals the presence of extensive archaeological sites which can be associated with George McJunkin’s life & work in and around Folsom.

Selected speakers well-versed in New Mexico’s ranching cultures and historic development will remember George McJunkin in the context of his times, his community, and the ranching economy of northeastern New Mexico.  The lectures will begin at 10 a.m. and end at approximately 1 p.m.  A question and answer session will follow. Access the event via Kozlowski’s Trading Post on New Mexico Highway 63, south of Pecos Village.

Events for August 4, 2022

HUERFANO

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.

The Huerfano Winds are back

WALSENBURG— Head to Miners Plaza Thursday, Aug. 4 at 6:30 p.m. for a short concert by the newly reformed Huerfano Winds ensemble.  In case of rain, the concert will be at the Washington School auditorium, 201 E. 5th Street.
The group is under the direction of Ms. Katie Knutson, and is comprised of adult and youth members of the community.  The group is year round and is always looking for new members.
If you played back in the day, and would like to dust off your horn and get your chops back in shape, please contact Katie at kaitlyn.knutson7@gmail.com.

SPLD Summer program

WALSENBURG— August is Family Fun Month, so this Friday, Aug. 5 we are reading stories about having fun with family members.  Then we are going to do a fun process art painting.  We start at 10:30 a.m.  The library is located at 415 Walsen Ave. If you have any questions you may contact Ms. Sherry at 719-695-1105 or sherry@spld.org.   Library hours are M – W from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, Th – F from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and Sundays 1 pm – 5 pm.  We hope to see you soon.

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.

First Friday Art Walk

LA VETA — Meet us in the La Veta Creative District on Friday, Aug. 5, from 5 – 7 p.m. for the First Friday Art Walk! Explore shops and galleries; meet local, national, and international artists; and dine at breweries and restaurants! All activities associated with the First Friday Art Walk are free! For more information, contact Kate McCabe at 303.746.8323 or info@lavetacreativedistrict.org. This event is sponsored by the La Veta Creative District, Colorado Creative Industries (CCI), the Town of La Veta, and the Huerfano County Government.

Cuchara Art Show

CUCHARA— The Cuchara Valley Recreation Program has revived the Cuchara tradition of having an art show for all to enjoy. This is a highlight of the summer season with a great opportunity to celebrate our area artists. Come purchase a piece of hanging art for your home! The show will kick off Friday, Aug. 5 at 7 p.m. for our Artist Talks featuring photographer Jeff Stovall, photographer Pamela Ward, painter Ann Gethen, and Batik artist Beth Evans. Come find a special piece Saturday, August 6 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Sunday, August 7 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. If you are an artist interested in showing your work, the Art Show is accepting hanging art only, please drop it off August 3 at the Cuchara Community Center from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. For more information, please visit www.cucharavalleyrec.com. The Cuchara Community Center is located at 16500 CO-12 just south of downtown Cuchara.

Weekend movie at the FOX

WALSENBURG— The historic Fox Theatre’s weekend Our new movie for this weekend  is DC LEAGUE OF SUPER-PETS, Rated PG w/ a run-time of 1h 45m.
Krypto the Super-Dog and Superman are inseparable best friends, sharing the same superpowers and fighting crime side by side in Metropolis. However, when the Man of Steel and the rest of the Justice League are kidnapped, Krypto must convince a ragtag group of animals to master their newfound powers for a rescue mission. Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m.

S’mores Social ~ Bring a Ghost Story

WALSENBURG— Yum & Boo! Join us for a S’mores Social ~ Bring a Ghost Story to Share evening near the amphitheater at Lathrop State Park. Gather to enjoy a deliciously classic outdoor treat while socializing and sharing ghost stories that campers and visitors (maybe you?) have to share. Amphitheater seating will be nearby, or bring a camp chair or blanket if you’d like to sit closer to the s’mores makin’ area. This treat of a program is free and happens Friday, Aug. 5 at 8 p.m. 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.

Junior Rangers: Fishing Practice & Pointers with District Wildlife Manager Josh Bonar

WALSENBURG— For youth. Lathrop State Park has two lakes offering excellent fishing. If you love fish and all things fishing and want to learn more, Fly Fisher and District Wildlife Manager Josh Bonar (pronounced “Bonner”) will be sharing pointers to improve your fishing skills. Bring your own pole or use one provided by the park. Sunscreen, water and a hat are recommended. This program is free. Meet at 8 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 6 at the West Beach Picnic Area on Martin Lake at Lathrop State Park. Be sure to bring a parent(s) or guardian(s). 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.

Haircut Marathon

WALSENBURG—Saturday, Aug. 6 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. CS Stylings will be offering $15 haircuts. All proceeds will go to the RSVP of Huerfano County. Each haircut comes with a free hotdog and soda. Any eligible volunteers interested in signing up as an RSVP volunteer can do so right there at the event and receive a free t-shirt. Join the fun this Saturday.

Dog Days of Cuchara on Main Street

CUCHARA— Saturday, Aug. 6 starting at 10 a.m. Come out for the full day of tail waggin fun in Cuchara! Enjoy vendor booths, dog races, obstacle courses, rubber doggy duck races in Dodgeton creek, live music by the Cappalluccii Brother’s Band, and a Corn Hole Tournament at the Dog Bar & Grill! Come out for some good family fun and bring your dog too! This is a fundraising event for Los Huerfanos Animal Welfare Association.

Hike with Beginner’s Mind

WALSENBURG— Naturalists and scientists often begin their explorations with widely open minds and hearts. Join us for an observational and contemplative hike on the Hogback Trail to see what nature and a calm mind have to share with you. Gently step into the pureness of the moment where, when nature feels our calm, it may share more of itself. Water, sunhat and sunscreen are suggested. This contemplative adventure is free and happens Saturday, Aug. 6 at 10 a.m., starting from the 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.

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.

Pop-up Museum

LA VETA—Pop-up Museums are happening soon in Huerfano County.  On Saturday, Aug. 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.

Burlesque Review

LA VETA— Saturday, Aug. 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

Sights & Sounds of Colorado Wildlife

WALSENBURG— Come explore the sights and sounds of Colorado Wildlife with Colorado’s longest-serving game warden Bob Holder. Bob is known for his caring concern for bears and all Colorado wildlife, as well as his caring for people and what it means to live among wildlife that is essential to a healthy ecosystem and that was here long before us. Bob’s educational programs are packed with information, kindness, fun and heart. This free program happens Saturday, Aug. 6 at 7 p.m. in 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.

Movie on the greens

WALSENBURG— Join the Fox Theatre at the Walsenburg Golf course on Saturday, Aug. 6 at dusk for this week’s movie on the green, Gattaca (PG-13). Vincent Freeman (Ethan Hawke) has always fantasized about traveling into outer space, but is grounded by his status as a genetically inferior “in-valid.” He decides to fight his fate by purchasing the genes of Jerome Morrow (Jude Law), a laboratory-engineered “valid.” He assumes Jerome’s DNA identity and joins the Gattaca space program, where he falls in love with Irene (Uma Thurman). An investigation into the death of a Gattaca officer (Gore Vidal) complicates Vincent’s plans.
Admission is free and concessions are available for purchase. Alcohol, burgers, hotdogs, and brats are available for purchase.Donations are accepted. Each movie event cost nearly $2000.00 so your contribution ensures our financial success. Kids activities start at 7 p.m. and the movie starts at 8:30. 1399 Co Rd 502, Walsenburg. Enter Lathrop State Park and follow signs to the golf course. You DO NOT need to pay for a park pass. Access to the golf course is FREE.

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

Blood drive

HUERFANO—American Legion Post 16 will hold a blood drive on Tuesday, Aug. 9 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m at the Huerfano Community Center in Walsenburg. Preregister at vitalant.org  or call 1-877-258-4825 for more information.

Wahatoya Ranger Kids

HUERFANO —Two Peaks Fitness’ summer program, Wahatoya Ranger Kids. Includes nature hikes, nature-based fun activities, and environmental and outdoor educational programs. Kids will learn about wildlife safety, how not to get lost and what to do if you are, animal signs and tracking, useful wild plants, and Native American lore and legends. The cost per session is $10 if parent is gym member, $15 if parent is non-member. Scholarships are available! Wednesday, Aug. 10 from 9 a.m.- 3:30 a.m. Kids Aged 9-14 can participate. For more information and to download the registration form, see Two Peaks Fitness website, at https://twopeaksfitness.org/wahatoya-ranger-kids/. You can also come by Two Peaks Fitness, 216 S Main St in La Veta, M-F 9am-12noon or 3-6pm.

Acrylic Painting Workshop

LA VETA—Coni Grant, distinguished acrylic artist based in Alamosa, is offering an art workshop at SPACe Wednesday, Aug. 10, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. for artists who want to learn more about the unexpected advantages of acrylic paints – and push their own work in new directions.  Students will work through two projects which teach techniques that can be applied to their own work. The cost is $70. Students provide their own materials, however there is a $5 fee for specialty materials provided by Grant and easels are available. A suggested supply list is available at SPACe or on the website. To register for the workshop, call SPACe, 719 742-3074 or visit Tues. – Sat. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., or go online and pay by credit card at spanishpeaksarts.org.

Is it Life or Death Insurance?

WALSENBURG—Not everyone can afford life insurance, nor consider it important. David Tesitor from DATCO Insurance will co-present with Elisa Ingoldby from Boies-Ortega Funeral Home information regarding the necessities of insurance – life, death, long term care, etc….Come learn the ins and outs of whether insurance is necessary and it can help your life and death! Join us at Spanish Peaks Library Community Room on Wednesday, Aug. 10, at 11 a.m. Refreshments served. Questions, call 719-738-2152.

American Legion Post 16 meeting

HUERFANO—Huerfano Post 16 of The American Legion will have its monthly meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 10 at 6 p.m. at the Walsenburg Housing Authority Office, 220 Russell Ave. in Walsenburg. We will be making plans for the upcoming year. All Veterans are invited to attend. The 2023 Membership Cycle is starting and if you join in August, you can get 5 months of Membership free. If you have any questions, please call Dave Rogers 719-738-9965.

Huerfano County Fair

HUERFANO—Join us at the Huerfano County Fair Wednesday, Aug. 10 – Sunday, Aug. 14 at the 4-H fair grounds in La Veta. For a full list of events please visit www.HuerfanoFair.com

Author talk with Virginia Sanchez

LA VETA—On Thursday, Aug. 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!

Groundbreaking ceremony for the new Walsenburg JR/SR high building

WALSENBURG— Friday, Aug. 12 at 10 a.m. join us for the Huerfano School District RE-1 groundbreaking ceremony of the new Walsenburg Junior/Senior High School building. Meet near the flagpole at 355 W Pine St, Walsenburg.

Fridays for Fun at LVSA- Printmaking

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, Aug. 12, Lana Thomas Wachterman  will teach how to make original prints and print duplicates without a press.  This process is easy to learn and beautiful to see.  All Fridays For Fun classes are 1-3pm 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 also available.

Sumi and big brush painting class

LA VETA—The La Veta School of the Arts is offering Sumi and Big Brush Painting to be taught by artist, Raquel Dimond on Saturday, Aug. 13 and Sunday, Aug. 14. Raquel’s studio has been in Colorado for many years where she works in Sumi, and does bead work, weaving, and painting. She studied and worked in the art departments of several art magazines before settling here. Raquel’s students will learn about the history and techniques of Sumi painting, as well as the materials needed. All levels of experience are welcome. An introduction to the big brush and regular bamboo brushes will lead to rendering leaves, flower petals, grasses and branches. Sumi ink will be used on rice paper. Students in this class always make beautiful paintings! Cost for this 2-day workshop on Aug 13 and 14 is $150 plus $30 lab fee that will pay for all supplies. Lab fee payable to the instructor at the start of class.. All classes take place at LVSA across from Town Park on Ryus Ave. in La Veta. For more information and to register, please visit www.the LVSA.org or call class administrator Lana Thomas at 719-746-2252.

Mushrooms of Spanish Peaks Country with local naturalist Bob Kennemer

LA VETA—The Spanish Peaks area, including the Wet Mountains, and the Sangre de Cristo Range, are home to hundreds of mushrooms. Many are edible, some are poisonous, a few are hallucinogenic, most we know little about. This lecture and slide program will help lift the veil on mushrooms of the area. Foraging dos and don’ts will be addressed, including suggested books and equipment. Several sample mushrooms will be presented. Ways to process and preserve mushrooms will be discussed. Mushrooms are now being used: to make clothing, furniture, medicines, fertilizers, meat substitutes, and to clean up everything from oil spills to radioactive waste. Mushroom expert and pioneer, Paul Stamets has said, “Mushrooms will save the world!” Come learn just what this claim means at the La Veta Public Library on Saturday, Aug. 13, 2 – 3:30 p.m. $10 per person.

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

Stand Still and Look Stupid: Hedy Lamarr Story

LA VETA – The Francisco Center for the Performing Arts is proud to present Stand Still and Look Stupid: Hedy Lamarr Story, performed by Emily Ebertz as Hedy Lamarr and written by Mike Broemmel. This show is one night only, sharing the story of Hedy Lamarr, a “leading lady” during the Golden Age of Hollywood as well as an ingenious inventor. The show is Saturday, Aug. 13 at 7 p.m. and all tickets are general admission and go fast. Tickets and information are available at www.LaVetaTheaterWeb.org The Francisco Center for the Performing Arts is located at 127 W. Francisco St. in La Veta.

Cuchara Chapel last summer service

CUCHARA—Only one more service this summer it will be on Sunday, Aug. 14 at 11 a.m. located off Hwy 12. It is the log and stone chapel just south of Cuchara Village. Bring your own chair and join us after for our annual picnic. Please bring your own food, no potluck buffet.

Writer’s Workshop

LA VETA—Colorado Humanities and Huajatolla Heritage Foundation are pleased to partner with the La Veta Library in bringing Annie Toro Lopez to continue our exploration of writing skills. Ms. Lopez is a long-time professional Reading and Writing teacher. She is also the founder of High Prairie Press. “The Writer’s Handbook; An Indispensable Grammar and Style Guide” is her recently published guide for aspiring authors or anyone who finds writing to be part of their daily lives. It is available on Amazon. Come join Annie and be guided through polishing your storytelling and writing skills. The free program will be presented Wednesday, Aug. 17 from 1 – 3 p.m. Direct any inquiries to info@hhfoundation.org.

Crafting a God’s Eye

WALSENBURG— Beautiful yarns from all over the country will be used to craft a God’s Eye. Friday, Aug. 19 from 1 – 3 p.m. at the  Walsenburg Housing Authority Activities Room.  220 Russell Ave, Walsenburg. This art form was first made in Mexico by the Hurchol or Wixarika people who used them for prayer and protection.  It was given to a child at birth to ensure a life of health and happiness.  We provide all supplies and refreshments at no charge.  Instruction by Sharona Nova.  Call 719-989-8438 to RSVP before August 17. Handicap Accessible. Sponsored by Mt. Rose Health Center and Arts in Society.

Eleanor of Aquitaine: A Queen with a Bone to Pick

LA VETA – The Francisco Center for the Performing Arts is proud to present Eleanor of Aquitaine: A Queen with a Bone to Pick, written and performed by La Veta’s very own Sam Law. Come Meet The queen To whom YOU owe SO much … INCLUDING Democracy! Come hear what this feisty woman has to say for herself about her fabulously colorful life and be the judge of her due acclaim. This performance is one night only, Saturday, Aug. 20 at 7 p.m. All tickets are general admission. Tickets and information are available at www.LaVetaTheaterWeb.org The Francisco Center for the Performing Arts is located at 127 W. Francisco St. in La Veta.

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.

Senior day at Books & More Bookstore

TRINIDAD—Senior Day at Books & More Bookstore 132 N. Commercial St., Trinidad, CO, will be Friday, Aug. 5, from 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and Saturday, Aug 6, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.  Most items 1/2 price.  Please call us for more information 719-846-8522.

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.
“Aliens in Trinidad” Artwork related to UFO’s and Alien sightings at the First Friday Artwalk, Aug 5, 5-8 pm, 149 E. Main St. Trinidad in Marketplace Gallery. Come share your stories!

Friday Night Live

TRINIDAD—This Friday, Aug. 5 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.

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.
The Horno and the Hispanic Culture of the Purgatoire River Valley

TRINIDAD—Join Park Staff and Deanna Philbin and experience Hispanic history and culture of the Purgatoire River Valley on Saturday, Aug. 6 at 7 p.m.  The presentation includes some hands-on activities, an opportunity to sample food cooked in the adobe horno, and a mini Spanish lesson. Join us at the amphitheater at Trinidad State Park for this fun and informative program.

St. Anthony celebration 100 years

AGUILAR—St. Anthony Catholic Church in Aguilar will be celebrating their 100th Anniversary on Sunday,  Aug. 7 at 8  a.m. Rev. Isaac Kariuki and Bishop Stephen J. Berg will be saying mass.  Everyone is welcome to attend and celebrate with us. If you have any questions please call the office 719-941-4124 and leave a message, all messages will be returned.

Save the Storks mobile appointments available

TRINIDAD—Save the Storks mobile will be at the Hope Pregnancy Center at 1532 Santa Fe Trail in Trinidad, CO every 2nd Tuesday of the month from 11am to 3pm, starting Tuesday, Aug. 9.  They offer free ultrasound imaging!  Please call Hope at 719-846-4889 or message at Hope Pregnancy Center on Facebook for more information and to set an appointment.  Walk-ins are welcome!

Murder at the Orient Express

TRINIDAD—“Murder at the Orient Express” opens Friday, Aug. 12 at 7 p.m. and runs Aug 12-14 and  Aug 19-21. Fri and Sat at 7 p.m., Sun at 2 p.m.  Murder & mayhem that takes place in a Chinese restaurant run by two Irish sisters and a German waitress.  Appropriate for all ages.  Main Street LIVE, 131 W Main in Trinidad.  Please call  719 846 4762 for more information.

Trail Work Saturdays with Trinidad Trails Alliance

TRINIDAD—Join Trinidad Trails Alliance to help maintain and expand our favorite local trails at the Wormhole! We’re meeting every second Saturday at 9       a.m. throughout the summer. If you have a favorite tool, bring it along. We will also supply additional tools. Bring your own water, sunscreen, and work gloves. This Saturday, Aug. 13, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. is Dog Days of Summer, bring your well-behaved (and leashed) doggos. For questions and more info, contact (719) 859-0379.

Movie in the park

TRINIDAD—Bring your blankets and chair for a movie in the park on Saturday, Aug. 13 at dusk. Join us at Central Park lower level for this free movie in park. Bring the whole family and your favorite snacks. We will be showing Sonic 2. Questions please call Julie Mattorano at 719-251-6509

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 Sept. 5 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 Sept. 15. Public voting begins Aug. 1, so get your entries in early! The winners will be announced on Sept. 16, 2022. The top 10 finalists will be represented in the Crows and Ravens Exhibit beginning Oct.1, 2022. There is also a cash prize for Grand Prize, Second Place, Third Place, and Two Honorable Mentions totaling a minimum of $1,000.
Learn more at https://contest.laughingcrowartisans.com/crows-and-ravens

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,  Aug.  7 at 2:30 p.m. we will have Chuck Wiggins, Pastor from Methodist Church in Springer. Sunday, Aug. 14 will be our annual picnic. The potluck meal begins at noon, and the worship service will be immediately after the meal. The message will be given by Monte McGowen, Pastor of the Lighthouse Church-Raton NM

Sugarite Canyon Reach for the Stars Program

RATON—Come explore the wonders of Sugarite’s night sky by telescope with Kelly Ricks, former Sugarite ranger and Geoff Goins, ranger at Capulin Volcano National Park. Join us at Soda Pocket Park Amphitheater on Friday, Aug. 5 at 8 p.m.

Moonlight Hike

CAPULIN—Take a ranger guided hike at Capulin Volcano under the full or nearly full moon on Saturday, Aug. 6 at 8:30 p.m. Come and experience the top of Capulin Volcano in a new light! Wear warm clothing and layers as the weather may be chilly. Meet at the visitor center before heading up the volcano. Reservations are required; call 575-278-2201 with the number of people attending to reserve a spot!

Summer food baskets for students

SPRINGER—On Monday, Aug. 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.

23rd Annual Raton International Golf Tournament

RATON—Get ready for the 23rd annual Raton International Golf Tournament sponsored by InBank to be held Friday, Aug. 12-Sunday Aug. 14. Three person teams, fights for everyone, modified scramble format features Stableford Scring. Please call 575-445-8113 for more information.

Gun show and hunting expo

RATON—Join us at the Raton Convention Center at 901 S. 3rd St. On Saturday, Aug 13 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday, Aug 14 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Bring an item to trade or sell and get $1 off admission. $ 10 for adults and $9 for veterans, Kids 12 and under are free. Cash paid for military items WWII and earlier. For more information please call 405-503-3665 of email gunshowokie@gmail.com

OUT OF OUR WORLD

George McJunkin: Cowboy, Ranch Foreman & Citizen Scientist

SANTA FE  — Join us for a free public education presentation, George McJunkin: A Black Ranch Foreman’s Inspiring Connection to PaleoIndians, a Role Model for Diversity, and the first Pecos Conference, at Pecos National Historical Park’s Forked Lightning Ranch unit, on Sunday, Aug. 14, 2022.
In a series of lectures and poster presentations, the event will celebrate the life of George McJunkin, African-American cowboy, ranch supervisor, citizen scientist, historian, and discoverer of the Folsom Paleoindian site. These talks will be held on the centennial of his passing and in conjunction with the 95th anniversary of the founding of the Pecos Conference of Southwestern Archaeology at Pecos Pueblo.

Following the first Pecos Conference in 1927, Dr. A.V. Kidder was called to Folsom, New Mexico to view McJunkin’s find, at which time leading scientists met and confirmed the authenticity and antiquity of the site, demonstrating that Native American ancestors were present in North America during the last Ice Age. New research in 2022 reveals the presence of extensive archaeological sites which can be associated with George McJunkin’s life & work in and around Folsom.

Selected speakers well-versed in New Mexico’s ranching cultures and historic development will remember George McJunkin in the context of his times, his community, and the ranching economy of northeastern New Mexico.  The lectures will begin at 10 a.m. and end at approximately 1 p.m.  A question and answer session will follow. Access the event via Kozlowski’s Trading Post on New Mexico Highway 63, south of Pecos Village.

Upcoming Events for July 28, 2022

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.

Upcoming Events for July 21. 2022

OUR WORLD

Coloradans Encouraged to Submit Their Creations for the 150th Colorado State Fair By Friday

PUEBLO — Along with exciting concerts, livestock competitions, rodeos, and annual fair fun, the 150th Colorado State Fair is scheduled to host 20 general entry and fine arts contests for both adults and children. From fine art to farm and garden contests, the State Fair showcases talent from some of the finest artists, artisans, bakers, and gardeners across Colorado. Online entries close this Friday, July 22. Coloradans from across the state are encouraged to put their best foot forward and submit their creations. Items will be judged by experts in the relevant art/craft/hobby and winners will be revealed on the first day of the fair.
General Entry and Fine Arts categories include; Amateur Art, Arts and Crafts, Dolls, FFA Ag Mechanics, Fine Arts, Floriculture, Needle Arts, Pantry, Porcelain Art, Quilts, Farm and Garden.
The Special Contests category includes unique and fun competitions such as; Poetry, Coloring for all ages, Pet Rock, Funniest Pet Photo, Fruity Cookie. The special contests category also includes a “fruity cookie” baking competition sponsored by King Arthur Flour, where home bakers are asked to bake the most beautiful and delicious dessert. Creations will be judged on appearance, creativity, and taste.
More Information on each category, including specific entry requirements, can be found at https://coloradostatefair.com/competitions/general-entry-fine-arts/
Contest winners will be showcased during the entire 11 days of the 2022 Colorado State Fair in the Creative Arts and Fine Arts Buildings.
The Colorado State Fair is August 26, 2022 – September 5, 2022. For additional information, visit https://coloradostatefair.com/,  https://www.facebook.com/colostatefair/ , or call 719-561-8484.

HUERFANO

Paint the lift chairs on the mountain

CUCHARA—Thursday July 21 – Sunday July 24, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. head to Cuchara Mountain Park to help paint lift chairs.   They are looking for about three volunteers per day (Thursday through Sunday) to help paint lift chairs. We’ll be running the lift, three chairs at a time, and painting the chairs in the lower terminal as they roll through. us

Oldies but Goodies, Movie at LVPL

LA VETA—Thursday July 21, 2 p.m. join us for Oldies But Goodies,  upstairs at La Veta Library
What a great way to enjoy a cool afternoon with hot popcorn!  As part of our Art Humanities Programs, we are offering some favorite movies of community members.  This month’s movie is Cat Balou, a woman seeking revenge for her murdered father hires a famous gunman, but he’s very different from what she expects.  Filmed right here in Colorado!   Starring Lee Marvin, Jane Fonda, Michael Callan, and Nat King Cole.  Sponsored by Huajatolla Heritage Foundation and Colorado Humanities.

Summer kids program SPLD

WALSENBURG—This Friday, July 22 at 10:30 a.m. we will be kicking off “Shark Week” by learning all about sharks. We will even get to take a three-dimensional look inside a great white shark!  Please come join us. On Tuesday, July 26, 10:30 a.m. the Salida Circus will perform “The Fisherman and the Turtle!”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.  Library hours are M – W from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, Th – F from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and Sundays 1 pm – 5 pm.  We hope to see you soon.

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 22, Maggie MacIndoe will help all participants paint a life size self portrait.  We encourage all artists to bring collage materials to personalize their memorable creations.  All Fridays For Fun classes are 1-3pm.

Caring for the Community

HUERFANO—HeARTworks Health and Wellness Events supported by a generous Next 50 grant to Mt. Rose Health Center Palliative Care and Hospice has several up coming events in Huerfano County with well-known and trusted health care professionals. We envision our roles as Health Navigators to assist in having a healthy life through a variety of resources. We offer basic vital sign (Blood Pressure, pulse, oxygen levels and temperature) at each event. In addition, we have been focusing on getting important VIAL OF LIFE materials to all who want them. Vial of Life is a nationally recognized program that has the important
information that EMS people need if they were to respond to an emergency and you were unable to tell
them who to notify, what medical diagnoses you may have and what medications you are on. Charlene Velarde provides services in Gardner’s Navigator. She is available at the Farmers’ Market on Saturdays as well as at the Care and Share food distributions on the 2 nd and 4 th Tuesdays of the month. Lisa Wagner is serving as Navigator in Walsenburg, she will also be at the Housing Authority at 220 Russell Avenue Friday, July 22 from 1-3 p.m. Coral Anderson is our Navigator in La Veta. She will be at the La Veta Farmers’ market on Thursday July 21 st from 3-5 p.m. She then will be at the Pleasant View Apartments on Pinkerton Street (behind the Country Store) from 1-3 p.m. on Tuesday August 26th. If you want or need more information, please contact Sandy Dolak at 719-251-1271 (Call or text)

Friday art programs at MOF

WALSENBURG— Friday July 22 at 10:30 a.m. continues a new weekly traditional crafts project at MoF with instructor Elizabeth Hart. Each week we will learn about different types of sewing including machine stitch. All ages are welcome, The fee is by donation.
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.

Candidate meet and greet

HUERFANO— Friday, July 22 from 5 – 8 p.m. please join us as we host an evening to meet the candidates in the upcoming 2022 election. This is a non-partisan event open to all candidates listed on the 2022 Colorado ballot. Live music by The American Band and Apache Creek Fiddlers plus food trucks too! This event is sponsored by Huerfano County Farm Bureau and will be broadcast on KSPK.

“The Male Intellect, an Oxymoron” at Francisco Center for Performing Arts

LA VETA—The Francisco Center for the Performing Arts (FCPA) is proud to present Robert Dubac’s The Male Intellect: An Oxymoron, Friday July 22, Saturday, July 23 and Sunday, July 24.  Show starts at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, show starts at 2 p.m. on Sunday. Doors open 30 minutes prior to show.  $20 per ticket at the door, online at www.lavetatheaterweb.org or at the FCPA Box office July 18-21 10 – 4 p.m.

Weekend movie at the FOX

WALSENBURG— The historic Fox Theatre’s weekend movie is Minions: Rise of Gru for the next two weekends. 7/22 – 7/24 In the 1970s, young Gru tries to join a group of supervillains called the Vicious 6 after they oust their leader — the legendary fighter Wild Knuckles. When the interview turns disastrous, Gru and his Minions go on the run with the Vicious 6 hot on their tails. Luckily, he finds an unlikely source for guidance — Wild Knuckles himself — and soon discovers that even bad guys need a little help from their friends. Movie Showtimes: Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m.  and Sunday at 3 p.m.

Life of a Mine: From Exploration and Active Mining to Reclamation

WALSENBURG—Join us to explore the Life of a Mine: From Exploration and Active Mining to Reclamation with Jim Stark of the DNR’s Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety. A mine site typically has these three major phases in its life cycle. Reclamation restores mining areas that have given so much and makes sure that they do not become a public liability. This virtual adventure happens Friday, July 22 at 8:30 p.m. at the Lathrop State Park amphitheater. For more info on the life of a mine, visit reclamation.colorado.gov/mine-life. This program is free. 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.

Twin Peaks Motorfest

HUERFANO— Saturday, July 23, join us for the Twin Peaks Motorfest for sand drags and barrel racing. Gates open at 8 a.m. and registration for the events start at 9 a.m. with events to follow starting at 11 :30 a .m. Spectator entry fee is $10 for the day and kids 5-13  are $5, pit passes are $20, cash only. Concessions will be available on site. Located just west of Walsenburg between mile marker 292 & 293 on HWY 160, look for the checkered flags and banners on the south side of the highway.

Rummage sale fundraiser

WALSENBURG—New Hope Community Church located at 801 Pennsylvania in Walsenburg is hosting a yard sale Saturday, July 23 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. 100% of the proceeds will go to the SCCY (Sangre De Cristo Center for Youth). All items are offered at the buyer’s choice to pay a dime, a dollar, or a donation. Rain or shine!

Huerfano Cornhole Fundraiser

HUERFANO—BYOP summer fundraiser will be Saturday, July, 23 at 10 a.m. at the Huerfano County Community Center in Walsenburg. Check-in is at 10 a.m. and bags fly at 11 a.m. Register on the Scoreholio app or in person. West Texas Smoke BBQ and catering will be available for purchase as well.

Junior Rangers Hike: End of the Dinosaurs – Rock Evidence

WALSENBURG—Junior Rangers and parents/guardians, come hike with geologist/geophysicist Dr. Heloise Lynn, to the top of the Hogback at Lathrop State Park to learn about the day the dinosaurs died. This is also known as the day, 66 million years ago, when a 10-15 km asteroid landed offshore of the Yucatan Peninsula, in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. We will have a large aerial view of the La Veta Valley. The paleo fossil site in North Dakota, called the Hell Creek Formation, where the waters in the lakes sloshed so violently out of their lakes due to the big earthquakes, that flash floods buried tons of creatures which were then encapsulated in the rock record, along with the iridium layer from the asteroid’s fallout. That paleo fossil site has some similarities to the two lakes at Lathrop. Locally, the Trinidad K-T Boundary Natural Area, located within Trinidad Lake State Park, contains significant evidence of the asteroid impact. This free program happens Saturday, July 23 at 10 a.m. We will start the hike at the 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.

Book sale

LA VETA—Sidewalk sale of used books every Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Book Nook, 207 S. Main Street in La Veta.  Proceeds benefit the Friends of the La Veta Library, Inc.

Hiking the Hogback Trail with beginners in mind

WALSENBURG— Early naturalists and scientists at the beginning of human exploration into the deeper mysteries of life often began their explorations with widely open minds and hearts. How many of us can share a story about an insight or inspiration that came when we were not thinking about a “problem” we were trying to solve? Join us for an observational and contemplative hike along the Hogback Trail to see what nature or your mind has to share with you. Gently step back from the part of the human mind that “thinks” it knows about the world into the pureness of the moment where helpful Einsteinian insights arise. Water, sunhat and sunscreen are suggested. This adventure is free and happens Saturday, July 23 at 1 p.m., starting from the amphitheater at Lathrop State 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.

Afternoon of poetry

LA VETA— An “Afternoon of Poetry” in honor of the Natural World, will be held Saturday, July 23rd, 3-5 p.m. at the LaVeta Public Library, please bring a mask. Bring poems to read, your own or other favorites! For more information: Tom 719-742-3776 or Robin 719-742-3398.

I scream for ice scream (social)

LA VETA— Join the La Veta Fire Protection District
Auxiliary for an Ice Cream Social on Saturday, July 23
6 p.m. at the Cuchara Mountain Mercantile 1120 Pander Ave, Cuchara. Adults are $10 and Kids are $7, under 3 is free. We will have ice cream, snacks, drinks, music and a silent auction. All proceeds will benefit the La Veta Fire Department.

Outdoor Movie: Strange Wilderness

WALSENBURG— Strange Wilderness (R) is a 2008 American comedy-adventure film produced by Adam Sandler’s production company Happy Madison Productions.
Saturday, July 23, 7 p.m. at the Walsenburg Golf Course, 1399 County Road 502 Walsenburg. The movie is hosted by our historic Fox Theatre Walsenburg at the Walsenburg Golf Course. You access the golf course via Lathrop State Park entrance but no park pass is required. Stay to the right and follow the signs to the golf course. Or take Second Street out from Walsenburg and follow the dirt road to the clubhouse. Admission is FREE! Please call (719) 738-2730 for questions.

Celtic Music of Willson & McKee

WALSENBURG— This Saturday, July 23 at 7: 30 p.m., come out for an evening of Celtic music with Willson and McKee. Multi-instrumentalists, vocalists and just plain ‘fun folk’, Willson and McKee have toured professionally for 32 years, winning national and international awards for their traditional Celtic and original music. Decades of music making, including 14 albums, educational work and collaborations on both sides of the pond, means a commitment to making a joyful noise! If rainy weather is possible, this event will be moved to the Visitor Center. This program is free. 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.

Democracy Tour

WALSENBURG—The Democracy Tour is coming to Walsenburg this Sunday, July 24th from 12 – 2 p.m. It will be held at Miner’s Plaza at 5th & Main. Officers from the Colorado Democratic Party along with Democrats from Pueblo and the surrounding area will be in Walsenburg for the event. Those planning to attend from the CDP include the following; Morgan Carroll, Chair, Karin Asensio, Executive Director, Amy Pascal, Finance Coordinator, Elena Martinez-Vivot, Organizing Director, Kevin Kuns, Precinct Organizer Program Director, Joe Zemek, Technology Director. Also planning to attend the Democracy Tour include; Mary Beth Corsentino, Pueblo Democratic Chairman and Democrat members from Pueblo, Berna Hostetter, CD3 Area Director from the San Luis Valley as well as Huerfano County Democrats. There will be food and music plus training for candidates and question and answer sessions. All Democrats in the area are invited to attend.

SPLD Gardening 101 Class

WALSENBURG— Sunday, July 24, 1 p.m. join us for this month’s Gardening 101 Class to discuss creative projects for your yard that you can do yourself!  Included are a few projects with instructions to build a firepit, a soaking pool and a bench with planters.  We’ll have examples of other easy and inexpensive ways to add beauty to your yard as well.  Open discussion is encouraged, so bring your own ideas and experiences to share!

Salida Circus – The Fisherman and the Turtle

LA VETA—Tuesday, July 26 at 2 p.m. the La Veta Library presents a free, interactive show for kids at the Francisco Center for the Performing Arts, 127 W Francisco St in La Veta. All ages are welcome to join the fun. Call 719-742-3572 for more info.

Yoga for Strength class series

LA VETA— Tuesday, July 26 through Tuesday, Aug 30 from 10 – 11:30 a.m. with Ruth Heal at the Studio, 200 S Main St, La Veta. Are you looking to increase your strength and develop more core awareness, but don’t feel comfortable in a gym environment? Our class series will start with a gentle yoga warm-up, move into strengthening using light weights and your own body weight, and end with yoga stretches and relaxation. Ruth is a Registered Yoga Teacher with more than 14 years of experience and a love of sharing these valuable practices. The cost is $60 for 6 class series. To reserve your spot sign up at www.lavetayoga.com or call or text Ruth on (415) 233 2632.

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, Ellen White will help everyone learn the colorful art of Tie Dye.  Bring your own cotton t-shirt, bandanna or other cotton article to personalize with your own design or decoration with dye.   All Fridays For Fun classes are 1-3pm 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 also available.

Visual journaling techniques with Lori Holdread

LA VETA —Let your inner voice be seen as well as heard!! Learn strategies for visual journaling to enhance your “preparing to create” repertoire on your journey of self-awareness and creative expression. This afternoon workshop is Friday, July 29, from 12-3 p.m. at the SPACe Gallery in La Veta. Cost is $30, plus a $5 materials fee. For more information and details on how to register, visit the SPACe website, www.spanishpeaksarts.org or call (719) 742-3074.

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 – 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

First Friday Art Walk

LA VETA — Meet us in the La Veta Creative District on Friday, August 5, from 5 – 7 p.m. for the First Friday Art Walk! Explore shops and galleries; meet local, national, and international artists; and dine at breweries and restaurants! All activities associated with the First Friday Art Walk are free! For more information, contact Kate McCabe at 303.746.8323 or info@lavetacreativedistrict.org. This event is sponsored by the La Veta Creative District, Colorado Creative Industries (CCI), the Town of La Veta, and the Huerfano County Government.

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.

Peaches, peaches and more peaches

HUERFANO—Time is running out for you to place your order for those delicious, #1 Palisade peaches through La Veta Methodist Church. We are currently receiving orders and your order will be ready for pickup on Sunday, August 21, 2022 between 11:00am-2:00pm. 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.

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. Thank you for helping get the word out!

Mt. Carmel Youth Choir Music Camp

TRINIDAD— Join Mt. Carmel in this summer’s youth choir music camp. Camp will be held from Monday, July 11 – Monday, August 5 from 9 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Mon-Thur.  The youth choir music camp is for ages 8-12 for more information and to register please call 719-845-4894 or visit our web page www.wmtcarmelcenter.org Camp will be held at Mt Carmel Wellness and Community Center in the Garden Room.

Friday Night Live

TRINIDAD—This Friday, July 22 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.

Make Art Fair

TRINIDAD—The 4th Annual Make Art Fair new date is Saturday, July 23 from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. with an hour break at noon. We will be making art on the Trinidad History Museum grounds. Come try you hand at mandala rock painting, pour art, mosaics, tie dying and much more. All supplies and instruction provided free of charge. Try as many as you like, keep all you make. Fun for all ages.

Dam the Facts

TRINIDAD—Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about the dam on Saturday, July 23, 7 p.m. We call it Trinidad Lake which provides the setting for camping and all manner of Water related recreation. But actually it’s a reservoir, providing first and foremost flood protection and water for irrigation. Join us as we welcome Kyle Sisco, Natural Resource Specialist/Ranger with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as he explains and demonstrates the construction of the dam, how it works and the little known functions it provides to the public. Much goes into the Operation of the dam and much goes on behind the scenes. Join us at the amphitheater for this interesting dam program.

Las Animas County Fair

LAS ANIMAS—Join us for the annual Las Animas County Fair beginning Monday, July 25 with events all week and ending Saturday, July 30. This year’s theme is “Raising the Steaks” Events will be held at the Las Animas County Fair Grounds, 2200 N. Linden Ave, Trinidad. For additional information please email us at 2022lacfair@gmail.com. For a list of all events, see schedule on page 19.  Or, visit us on Facebook at Las Animas County Fair.

Pickup roller hockey

TRINIDAD—Thursday, July 28 at 5:30 p.m. will be Skatelands next Pickup Roller Hockey game. Bring whatever gear you’ve got plus a donation ($10 or so is awesome) to help cover the rental fee. Invite your buddies!

Homesteading Weekend Workshop

TRINIDAD— This weekend’s course will educate on Permaculture basics and creating and developing a sustainable homestead. This course does not only pertain to new land owners, but town homesteads also!
Friday, July 29, 5 p.m.  is camp set up, early arrivals welcome. Saturday, July 30 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, July 31 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. The weekend Cost: $300 per person or family and per day: $150 yes, you can take just one day!Tent camping, showers  potable water, communal outdoor kitchen on site and food provided. For more info & to register: email earthmountainfarm@gmail.com or call 719-680-0215.

Masquerade adult prom

JANSEN—Saturday, July 30 from 6-10 p.m. join us for an evening of Masquerade. This adult prom is  21+ and will be held at La Casa in Jansen- 34451 CO-12, Wear something you already have, buy something new, or thrifted! Bring a date, bring a friend, or just yourself. Cash bar, $25single or $40 couple, Tickets can be purchased through email mrs.maucione@gmail.com , messenger, or text. I accept CashApp ($SamanthaCarol30), Venmo (@Samantha-Maucione), or Cash. Can also get
tickets at the door.

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 4 p.m. – 5 p.m. Call 719-846-8538 or Call/Text 410-562-1390

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. There will also be 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 information or to register your foosball team please call Kendra Doherty at 719-680-0693 or 719-946-5510 or call Lesley Abeyta-Hertzing 719-859-2065. We are still in need of help from volunteers, community service hours credited.

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 Sunday, July 10th and 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. Find out more information at https://contest.laughingcrowartisans.com/crows-and-ravens

Miss Run to Raton pin up contest

RATON— The Miss Run to Raton pin up contest is aiming to be New Mexico’s premiere pin up event. Miss Run to Raton will epitomize mid-century glamor, class, and sass. We are looking for lovely ladies who have a bombshell attitude and a classic look to be our 2022 Miss Run to Raton! Join us on  Saturday, July 23 at 1 p.m. on South First Street, Raton. $10 to enter. Please come to the sign in booth anytime before 12:30 on Saturday, July 23. Please bring money with you when you sign in the day of the competition. Early entries will be guaranteed a spot in the competition. We will cap our pageant at 15 beauties.

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 23 and Saturday, July 30 from 8:30 p.m. –  11:30 p.m.

Johnson Mesa Church upcoming 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 p.m. and this Sunday, July 24 we will have Pastor James Burk from Calvary Baptist Church in Raton. Sunday, July 31 at 2 p.m. Jennifer Kandel, of Assembly of God Church, Tucumcari NM and Foster Care Ministry Director for New Mexico Ministry Network will be our speakers.

Colfax County Fair

SPRINGER— The Colfax County Fair will be held Tuesday, July 26- Sunday, July 31 at the county fair grounds in Springer. Regular admission to the fair is $5. Saturday, July 30 at 10:45 a.m.will be the Colfax County Fair parade starting with the kids and at 11 a.m. will be the official parade for the fair. This years theme is “Raising the Steaks” For more information on the parade please call Cathy at 575-447-2872. The parade is sponsored by Colfax County Fair Association. There will also be a political meet and greet for candidates running in this November’s elections. Join us at Miller-Lark Barn on Saturday at 11:30 a.m. All candidates are welcome to attend. For more information please contact Diane at Hudgensbd@gmail.com. For a list of all events, see schedule on page 19. Or visit us on Facebook at Colfax County Fair.

Volunteer singup 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.