Kerri Beattie knows firsthand the challenges that parolees face when they're released from prison. She once was a parolee. Now, she helps new parolees recreate their lives through the Work and Gain Employment and Education Skills program at the Pinyon Project in Montezuma County. A sister program soon will be offered through Manna Soup Kitchen in La Plata County. Sponsored by Express Employment Professionals and Whole Health Family Medicine Clinic.

That thick layer of fat around your belly is almost an independent organ that seems as if it never shrinks, no matter how much you diet. Learn what kinds of food you should eat to reduce that dangerous layer of fat. Sponsored by PHD Weight Loss

It happens only once in every 100 years: the date matches the zip code, and for some postal stations, it never happens at all. But in Southwest Colorado, it will occur more than once in the 21st century. Sponsored by Keesee Motor Company and Big-O Tires

Whether you're a country mouse or a city mouse or someone in-between, you couldn't help but enjoy the wide variety of exhibits found at the Montezuma County Fair. Sponsored by Boutique Air and Cortez Airport

The 4th annual American Indian Cultural Artsfest was held at Aztec Ruins National Monument in late July. Painters, potters, weavers and jewelers came from various Southwest nations, including the ancient Pueblo Acoma in mid-western New Mexico, to sell their work and share their techniques. By Donna K. Hewett. Sponsored by SunRay Park and Casino and Three Rivers Brewery

The Montelores Early Childhood Council ramped up the fun for the 12th annual Children's Festival by moving the venue to Veteran's Park in July. Sponsored by Keesee Motors and FASTSIGNS

Colorado's Independent Redistricting Commissions will hold a joint public hearing on first round of proposed realignments for Congressional and state legislative districts in Durango. See how the changes impact Southwest Colorado. Sponsored by TruWest Auto and Whole Health Family Medicine Clinic

The Montelores Early Childhood Council expects to give away more than 500 Osprey backpacks filled with school supplies this year, so children in need are ready to learn on the first day of school. Sponsored by Choice Building Supply Ace Hardware and Whole Health Family Medicine Clinic

As Durango School District 9-R prepares to spend $63 million in capital construction and renovations during the next few years, it's also working with area business development organizations to ensure that local contractors and subcontractors in Southwest Colorado know how to submit bids and land contracts to benefit from the district's investment. Sponsored by FASTSIGNS and The Payroll Department

If you or am loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, you have local resources and support available to you. Learn more. Sponsored by Whole Health Family Medicine Clinic and San Juan Basin Public Health