The Cortez Retail Enhancement Association is encouraging residents to support local businesses and artists this holiday season. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Choice Building Supply and TruWest Auto

The Southwest Community Foundation Serving Southwest Colorado is spearheading an effort to inspire generosity in our five counties. By Connor Shreve This story is sponsored by The Lor Foundation and Big-O Tires

If you’ve never met a Swainson’s Hawk in person, this is your chance. Hawks Aloft, a New Mexico non-profit, traveled to Farmington Museum to conduct their education program to local children and their parents. Hawks A loft’s research provides valuable insight into the welfare of local raptor populations—through rescue, rehab and education. By Donna K. Hewett This story is sponsored by @BoonsFamilyThaiBBQ and Pop’s Truck and RV Center

On a windy Friday afternoon, Navajo Preparatory School hosted a dedication ceremony for the rebuilt hogan on the campus - a place that marries tradition with modernity and has already established itself as a home for the students who attend the Academy. With speeches from current and former students, state representatives, and community leaders, the celebration was a warm and welcoming as the crackling fire in the center of the hogan. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by CMIT Solutions and Service Master Restoration

Roger Echols, of Cortez, led all Colorado participants in the TOPS weight loss program, losing 32 pounds over 12 months. He’s encouraging other Cortez residents to join his weekly meetings ahead of the holiday season. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by FASTSIGNS and TruWest Auto

The USDA wants to help landowners remove Russian Olive and Saltcedar weeds from agricultural properties in Montezuma County. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Keesee Motors and the Law Firm of Downs, McDonough, Cowan & Foley

D’DAT, a local music trio, were invited to the WOMAD World Festival experience in South Africa. Members collaborated with local artists, indigenous musicians, and more, learning and exchanging personal experiences and cultural perspectives. With a new album on the way inspired and produced during their trip, D’DAT wants to continue to explore themes and ideas they learned along the way. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by Three Rivers Brewing and Pop’s Truck & RV Center

Since July, the City of Cortez has cleaned graffiti in 48 separate locations. Local law enforcement has caught 14 suspects, all of whom are teens, according to Assistant Police Chief Andy Brock. Officials are urging residents to report acts of vandalism to authorities using the non-emergency police phone number, 970-565-8441. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by TruWest Auto and the Law Firm of Downs, McDonough, Cowan & Foley

Cortez is taking part in the Green Light a Vet campaign throughout November. One of Colorado’s top economic prizes is putting the spotlight on our region. The Cortez City Council wants public input on a proposed land use code change regarding Accessory Dwelling Units. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Ute Mountain Casino Hotel and Choice Building Supply Hardware

From trick or treating to seasonal cuisine to games and prizes, the Piñon Project’s Pumpkin Fest has it all. Holiday food drives are right around the corner. An upcoming home buyers education class can help prospective home buyers with the process. This story is sponsored by The Lor Foundation and Big O Tires