In Towaoc, a recently built greenhouse known as the Growdome, built by Growing Spaces, is now growing fresh food for the Ute Mountain Ute Senior Center. Funded by the San Juan Basin Area Agency for Aging, additional indoor growing spaces are being built at Senior Centers across the region to engage the community and provide fresh produce for the elderly. By Ilana Newman. 

Watch this story at www.montezumalocal.news/newsstories/towaoc-greenhouse-grows-food-for-seniors  

This story is sponsored by Big O Tires and FASTSIGNS Durango. 

The City of Cortez is soliciting designs from artists as part of a celebration of Historic Preservation Month. The LOR Foundation and Cortez Retail Enhancement Association have partnered with the City of Cortez in designing a coloring book that highlights historic sites in the Cortez area with artist submissions due on February 20. Cortez Parks and Recreation is currently hiring several full- and part-time positions including events specialist, executive assistant, and lifeguard. Head to Durango January 26th through February 4th for this year’s hippie-themed Snowdown. The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles recently announced the top license plate designs for 2023 with the Blackout plate and Columbine plate topping the historical and specialty plate lists, respectively. By Rachel Hughes.  

Watch this story at www.montezumalocal.news/newsstories/cortez-in-search-of-artists-for-historic-coloring-book  

This story is sponsored by Blondie’s Trophy Room and Keesee Motors.

Throughout the years, the geothermal wells pumping heated water have bubbled up in the Animas Valley before cycling back down to the underground aquifer. Durango Hot Springs, purchased in 2019 and renamed from Trimble Hot Springs, has incorporated the natural flow cycle into the management of its soaking pools, all the while practicing a sustainable method of water treatment, creating a better soaking experience and giving back to the Animas Valley. By Hannah Robertson. 

Watch this story at www.montezumalocal.news/newsstories/flowing-through-the-natural-way

This story is sponsored by Sky Ute Casino and Kroegers Ace Hardware. 

Award-winning, professional photographer Jen Magnuson is offering a free digital camera workshop on Thursday, January 25th at 6 p.m. at the Mancos Public Library. The Cortez Cultural Center is seeking artist submissions for its 2024 gallery. Come by the Cortez Public Library to pick up your 2024 calendar, featuring photos from local photographers, and see David Rainey’s artwork on display. Southwest Conservation Corps is looking for community members to support their seasonal members by providing low-to-no-cost housing in the Hesperus area. By Rachel Hughes. 

Watch this story at www.montezumalocal.news/newsstories/calling-all-artists-and-art-admirers  

This story is sponsored by Choice Building Supply and TruWest Auto.  

Applications are open through February 9th for El Pomar Foundation’s summer internship program. Packets for Cortez’s 2024 municipal election are available for pickup at the Cortez City Hall. The city council has four seats that are up for election this year with new council members officially taking office in April. According to a Forbes Health/OnePoll survey, the majority of those who set new year’s resolutions will quit or forget about them within the first four months. Some have begun anticipating and even celebrating this with unofficial Ditch New Year’s Resolutions Day and Quitter’s Day in January. By Rachel Hughes.  

Watch this story at www.montezumalocal.news/newsstories/januarys-unofficial-day-to-ditch-your-new-years-resolution  

This story is sponsored by Keesee Motors and Blondie’s Trophy Room.

Every year, 11,000 people suffer injury from snow shoveling alone. With more snow, ice and colder temperatures comes a higher risk for drivers, pedestrians and pets. The Four Corners region has unique conditions that can increase certain risks. The Local News Network with the help of Visit Durango has gathered some tips to keep you safe, from the high desert to the high alpine. By Connor Shreve 

Watch this story at www.montezumalocal.news/newsstories/winter-weather-tips  

This story is sponsored by Tafoya Barrett & Associates and Happy Pappy’s Pizza & Wings 

The City of Cortez is applying for the Community Business Preservation Program on behalf of Cortez’ local businesses. The program is designed to provide training, consultation support, and grants to help with one-time expenses for a few, select communities and businesses in Colorado. Cortez business owners are encouraged to express interest and apply by January 3rd. Absolute Bakery & Cafe in Mancos is changing ownership starting January 1st. The bakery will be closed for a couple of months for a remodel. If you’re looking to start a new hobby in 2024, consider joining Dolores Public Library’s free beginner and intermediate ukulele classes on Monday evenings starting January 8th. By Rachel Hughes 

Watch this story at www.montezumalocal.news/newsstories/city-of-cortez-applies-for-grant-for-local-businesses  

This story is sponsored by Choice Building Supply and Blondie’s Trophy Room 

Starting January 1st, Cortez residents will experience an increased rate in their monthly water bills. Average users can expect a monthly increase of $4 to $6. Do you have a story to tell? The Dolores Public Library is seeking speakers and storytellers for their 2024 winter tales lecture series, and, at the Mancos Public Library, all ages and experience levels are invited to explore the art of story writing at their “everyone has a story” community writing projects. Staying healthy during the holidays can be a challenge. Learn 10 tips for staying well this winter from Mayo Clinic Health Systems and the Centers for Disease Control. By Rachel Hughes.

Watch this story at www.montezumalocal.news/newsstories/10-tips-to-stay-healthy-for-the-holidays 

This story is sponsored by Big O Tires and The Lor Foundation 

The holidays are rapidly approaching and if you haven't found something for the loved ones on your list, there are plenty of local options to choose from. Local artists and entrepreneurs offer everything from bags, to candles, clothes and more. Mancos based Thread, Metal and Stone repurposes fire hose to produce sturdy totes and slings along with jewelry for active people. Claire West Studio sells lavender products from a Cortez family lavender farm. Our region is full of second hand and consignment stores to uncover the perfect gift no one else will have. By Connor Shreve.

Watch this story at www.montezumalocal.news/newsstories/four-corners-gift-guide 

This story is sponsored by Kroegers Ace Hardware and Sky Ute Casino