The Deaf & The Musician features deaf artist Cindy McAllister and singer/songwriter Ben Brinton, who combines American Sign Language with music for a new visual twist on some popular songs you’ve likely heard before. The Cortez Fire Department is accepting employment applications through August 11th. Land, fire and range loss in a series of presentations this summer. The second of four summer sessions are scheduled this week. By Connor Shreve.

Watch this story at www.montezumalocal.news/newsstories/sign-language-mixes-with-music 

This story is sponsored by Choice Building Supply and https://lorfoundation.org/

The story of Ian O’Brien inspired dozens of volunteers to search for the missing hiker daily. Together, they covered 12,000 acres of wilderness. But, after weeks of searching, O’Brien’s family has called the effort off. By Connor Shreve.

Watch this story at www.montezumalocal.news/newsstories/search-for-missing-man-called-off 

This story is sponsored by FASTSIGNS and Southwest Health System

The Grand Canyon Trust, an organization dedicated to preserving the Grand Canyon and the Colorado Plateau, initiated the Pinyon Jay project to involve volunteers in wildlife conservation. Pinyon Jays have a symbiotic relationship with pinyon trees, making them a key marker in forest preservation for the pinyon and juniper forests dotting the Colorado Plateau. The project aims to gather data and protect the ecosystem while engaging amateur birders and outdoor enthusiasts, making the project accessible to everyone. By Hannah Robertson.

Watch this story at www.montezumalocal.news/newsstories/counting-birds-for-preservation 

This story is sponsored by CMIT Solutions and Three Rivers Brewery

Fundamental Needs, a Cortez-based non-profit, began by helping out on the Navajo Reservation during the pandemic. Ultimately, the founder’s discovered water was one of the most desired resources on the reservation. It developed a program that installs water systems for individual dwellings that don't have access to clean water. In 2023, the non-profit will continue its expansion into the Farmington and Shiprock areas. By Connor Shreve.

Watch this story at www.montezumalocal.news/newsstories/non-profit-brings-water-to-navajo-reservation-homes 

This story is sponsored by Three Rivers Brewing and The Big Idea Makerspace at San Juan College

Colorado Parks & Wildlife will host three days of archery, fly fishing and shooting education for novice sportswomen later this month in Norwood. The Montezuma Land Conservancy is hoping for community feedback on the results from its G-I-S climate change analysis in Dolores, San Miguel and Montezuma Counties. The most creative drummer in Ghana is coming to Cortez Third Thursdays. By Connor Shreve.

Watch this story at www.montezumalocal.news/newsstories/cpw-to-host-workshop-for-aspiring-sportswomen 

This story is sponsored by Big-O Tires and Blondies Trophy Room

In Montezuma County, a new group aims to provide an inclusive outdoor space for biking. Queer Byke Brigade, started by Clara Moulton and Kit Jones, aims to provide a safe, accessible, inclusive outdoor community for LGBTQ+ people in Montezuma and La Plata counties. By Ilana Newman.

Watch this story at www.montezumalocal.news/newsstories/lgbtq-bike-organization-creates-inclusive-outdoor-space 

This story is sponsored by FASTSIGNS and Southwest Health System

The Four Corners Community Band will perform summer classics and more during its July Fourth performance at Centennial Park from 4:30 - 6 pm. The second annual iAM Music Fest will take place at Fenceline Cider in Mancos. You can add a personal touch to one of the new garbage trucks with the City of Cortez. By Connor Shreve.

Watch this story at www.montezumalocal.news/newsstories/july-fourth-celebration-set 

This story is sponsored by The Lor Foundation and Kessee Motors

Montezuma Inspire Coalition is hoping hopscotch helps hone the organization's summer campaign aimed to get kids outdoors. An upcoming art market aims to celebrate native artists and culture across the Four Corners. The 93rd Ute Mountain Roundup saw some all-time event performances. By Connor Shreve.

Watch this story at www.montezumalocal.news/newsstories/generation-wild-day-inspires-parents-to-keep-kids-active 

This story is sponsored by Blondie’s Trophy Room and Big O Tires

As temperatures rise, so too does the number of D.U.I. and impaired driving cases. The issue is particularly bad in Southwest Colorado. Local non-profit, School Community Youth Collaborative, is bringing awareness to Ride Responsible. A program highlighting the problem of impaired driving and making safer modes of transportation more widely available. The organization partners with rideshare alternatives and works with transportation departments for special events. By Connor Shreve.

Watch this story at www.montezumalocal.news/newsstories/summer-shines-light-on-impaired-driving-problems 

This story is sponsored by The Payroll Department and Sky Ute Casino Resort

Kelly Gregory started Kelly’s Kitchen selling salsa, hummus, and cupcakes at the farmer’s market. Now she’s opened a brick-and-mortar restaurant on Central Ave. in Dolores, serving delicious breakfast, lunch, and coffee. By Ilana Newman.

Watch this story at www.montezumalocal.news/newsstories/from-farmers-market-to-brick-and-mortar-kellys-kitchen 

This story is sponsored by Blondies Trophy Room and TruWest Auto