MONTE VISTA - On July 16, a groundbreaking ceremony was held for Cobblestone Hotel at the Ski-Hi Complex in Monte Vista. The hotel will feature 62 rooms, an indoor bar and pool, and a breathtaking patio view.  Many local private investors are behind the project. 

It took less than half an hour for the jury, made up of six men and six women, to find Henry Corral guilty on all charges in connection with the fatal shooting of two men and attempted murder of a third at the Sunset Inn in June of 2024. Corral was charged with two counts of murder in the first degree, one count of criminal attempted murder in the first degree, criminal attempted robbery and tampering with evidence.

Members of The American Legion (TAL) gathered at Post 113 in Alamosa to present Past Commander Monte Collins with a plaque honoring his service to the legion.

GREAT SAND DUNES — Despite the recent challenges posed by wildfires that have brought smoke into the Valley and reduced visibility, a recent analysis of national park visibility data by the Washington Post ranks Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve 8th out of 76 national park sites. This resilience is a testament to the enduring beauty and allure of the park. 

MONTE VISTA - The City of Monte Vista invites community members to attend a Meet and Greet with the Chief of Police candidates on Monday, July 21, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Nino’s Restaurant, 118 Adams St., Monte Vista.  A light refreshment will be served.  

ALAMOSA — Already a truly unique venue for concerts, plays, debates and town halls, the infamous Society Hall in Alamosa is raising funds for a renovation of the front porch and other much-needed improvements. Once the project is finished, the renovation will, as Don Richmond says, “allow everything at the hall to expand”. 

Long-time Ski-Hi Stampede committee member, Charlie Burd, waves to the crowd on Sunday, July 13, after it was announced that the rodeo arena in Monte Vista would now be named Charlie Burd Arena.

ALAMOSA — Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser joined local leaders, educators, and mental health advocates this week for a powerful roundtable discussion focused on improving youth mental health in the San Luis Valley. Hosted by the Boys & Girls Clubs of the San Luis Valley, the gathering took place at Lucha’s Tacos, a locally owned space that served as a vibrant backdrop for community-driven dialogue. 

COLORADO SPRINGS — El Pomar Trustees approved $82,000 allocated to 11 nonprofit organizations and government agencies in the San Luis Valley region at the Foundation’s May Trustees meeting. Through the Foundation’s grant making process, the following organizations were awarded grants: 

ALAMOSA — On July 10, a one-year anniversary celebration was held at the Hope in the Valley addiction recovery center in Alamosa.  David Herrera, Community Engagement Coordinator with Hope in the Valley, told the Valley Courier that over one hundred well-wishers attended the event, underscoring the crucial role of community support in the center's success. 

ALAMOSA — Phil Weiser, Colorado’s attorney general and 2026 candidate for the Democratic nomination to be governor, pledged to the people of Colorado to block the policy agenda of President Trump in those areas that were bad for the state of Colorado and its people. Six months into the administration, Weiser is proving time and again that he is true to his word. 

MINERAL COUNTY - Mineral County Sheriff Terry Wetherill was pleased to announce the promotion of Mike Castro to the position of Mineral County Undersheriff. Castro has been on the force since moving to Creede in January and is eager to further serve the community to the best of his ability. 

MONTE VISTA - Alabama duo Muscadine Bloodline – Charlie Muncaster and Gary Stanton – worked the packed crowd into a frenzy at the opening concert of the 103 rd annual Ski-Hi Stampede in …

A celebration of the life of Bob Phillips to be held on July 13, 2:00 p.m. at Society Hall.

Crestone will host Independence Day events throughout the day on July 4.

ALAMOSA – Adams State University is proud to announce the successful five-year reauthorization of its educator preparation programs, as unanimously approved by the Colorado State Board of Education during regular meeting in May. This reauthorization affirms the quality, effectiveness, and continued impact of the School of Education and School of Counselor Education in preparing the next generation of educators and school leaders. 

ALAMOSA — On Thursday, June 26, Representative Matt Martinez was formally recognized by the leadership at San Luis Valley Health for his support of rural healthcare and his advocacy for key pieces of legislation this term. Rep. Martinez, who represents Colorado House District 62 and is the Majority Co-Whip, has been a vocal advocate for rural healthcare in Colorado since being elected to his position in 2023.  

MONTE VISTA - On June 19, Monte Vista City Manager GiGi Dennis talked about the upcoming Ski-Hi Stampede that will take place July 9-13, and how a special day has been designated for Stampede this year. 

MONTE VISTA - City of Monte Vista, the beloved children of J.D. Sanchez and the community gathered at J.D. Sanchez Park in the Lariat community on June 21, for an amazing tribute to the park’s namesake.  

CREEDE - According to a report submitted by a local resident in Creede, a petition to recall Creede Mayor Jeffery Larson and Creede Board Trustee Lori Dooley has been deemed sufficient. Efforts to recall the two members of the City of Creede began earlier this year.