Pagosa Springs-based company Voormi embodies Southwest Colorado. Its equipment is developed in a local warehouse, then tested in the San Juan Mountains. With a background in guiding, co-founder Dustin English wanted to get more performance out of less gear, so he decided to try to change the textile industry. Voormi weaves locally developed technology into traditional textiles to create some of the most versatile gear available. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by The Payroll Department and Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers.

Mancos Public Library is kicking off its adult summer reading program on Friday, July 12th from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. with a potluck and book discussion. The League of Women Voters of Montezuma County is conducting a discussion to explain a proposed country sales tax and how it will be used. On Tuesday, July 16th, Ashley Smith of the nonprofit consulting agency Sage Advice and Marcie Bidwell of Land Trust Alliance are holding a workshop on grant writing for rural communities. The Cortez Cultural Center will be displaying illustrations by Brad Goodell throughout the month of July. By Rachel Hughes. This story is sponsored by TruWest Auto and Hospice of Montezuma.

El Pomar Foundation approved grants for 10 organizations in Southwest Colorado. The Historic Cortez Coloring Book is now available for pickup at the Montezuma Heritage Museum and Cortez Cultural Center and to download online. The Cortez and Dolores Public Libraries’ summer reading programs are underway with special events through the end of the month. By Rachel Hughes. This story is sponsored by Keesee Motor Company and Big O Tires.

Plan your 4th of July celebrations with a variety of events in the Four Corners area. The City of Cortez will host a fireworks show at Parque de Vida on July 4th, organized by the Cortez Fire Protection District, with special T-shirts available for purchase. For more fireworks, head to Farmington on July 3rd or Bloomfield on July 5th. Durango offers 30 different events from July 3rd to 6th, in collaboration with local organizations. Montezuma County Fairgrounds will feature the Red, White, and Bucking Bulls event on July 4th. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by Choice Building Supply and Hospice of Montezuma.

The City of Cortez is updating its Land Use Code and is inviting community members to learn more and share their input. The local nonprofit Community Connections announced that it will be separating into two entities to accommodate regulatory changes and organizational growth. Cortez Tours is leading free, guided art tours on the first Friday of each month through October with the next tour starting at 4:00 p.m. on July 5th. Mesa Verde Country’s monthly business partners meeting is this Thursday, June 27th at 2:30 p.m. By Rachel Hughes. This story is sponsored by Big O Tires and Blondie’s Trophy Room.

With hot, dry conditions forecast in the months ahead, utilizing water efficient practices in your yard can provide major benefits. Though the Southwest climate makes saving water difficult, a rain garden can help lower your water bills, reduce water waste and mitigate flooding. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Kroegers Ace Hardware and Serious Texas BBQ.

The 7th annual Cortez Celtic Fair is this Saturday, June 22nd, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Parque de Vida with free admission and activities for all ages. Later that evening, the Montezuma County Fairgrounds is hosting Monster Truck Militia. The Station Boutique in Cortez took advantage of the Beautification Mini-Grant, designed to assist small businesses enhance their public entrances, to upgrade its storefront with a new sign. Grant applications are still open through October 1st. The City of Cortez is seeking to fill several positions including new full-time listings as well part-time and season openings. By Rachel Hughes. This story is sponsored by Keesee Motor Company and TruWest Auto.

The Ute Mountain Roundup Rodeo celebrated its 94th year with flair and excitement. From honoring First Responders and Military personnel to showcasing the thrill of rodeo competition, this event brought together the community for a weekend of entertainment and camaraderie. With over $80,000 in payouts and strong community support, this year's rodeo proved to be one of the most memorable yet. By Sadie Smith. This story is sponsored by Big O Tires and Hospice of Montezuma.

Mancos Creative District’s 5th Annual Burro Fest is this Saturday, June 15th, at Boyle Park. The Third Thursdays Cortez Downtown Market is opening for the season on Thursday, June 20th. Mancos Brewing Company is raising money for two regional cancer support organizations with its annual Nordfest on Saturday June 22nd. The Dolores and Mancos Public Libraries in conjunction with the League of Women Voters of Montezuma County are hosting an advanced screening of the film UNDIVIDE US on Tuesday, June 25th at 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. respectively. By Rachel Hughes. This story is sponsored by Choice Building Supply and Blondie’s Trophy Room.

Fort Lewis College Professor Justin McBrayer has won a prestigious award from the Fulbright Program. McBrayer will spend a term in Italy both conducting research and teaching at the University of Genoa, Italy in 2025. This is the second time McBrayer has received an award from the prestigious Fulbright Program, which is “devoted to increasing mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries.” McBrayer said the award will allow him to continue exploring the issue of misinformation and fake news. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Kroegers Ace Hardware and Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers.