The 4th annual American Indian Cultural Artsfest was held at Aztec Ruins National Monument in late July. Painters, potters, weavers and jewelers came from various Southwest nations, including the ancient Pueblo Acoma in mid-western New Mexico, to sell their work and share their techniques. By Donna K. Hewett. Sponsored by SunRay Park and Casino and Three Rivers Brewery

The Montelores Early Childhood Council ramped up the fun for the 12th annual Children's Festival by moving the venue to Veteran's Park in July. Sponsored by Keesee Motors and FASTSIGNS

Colorado's Independent Redistricting Commissions will hold a joint public hearing on first round of proposed realignments for Congressional and state legislative districts in Durango. See how the changes impact Southwest Colorado. Sponsored by TruWest Auto and Whole Health Family Medicine Clinic

The Montelores Early Childhood Council expects to give away more than 500 Osprey backpacks filled with school supplies this year, so children in need are ready to learn on the first day of school. Sponsored by Choice Building Supply Ace Hardware and Whole Health Family Medicine Clinic

As Durango School District 9-R prepares to spend $63 million in capital construction and renovations during the next few years, it's also working with area business development organizations to ensure that local contractors and subcontractors in Southwest Colorado know how to submit bids and land contracts to benefit from the district's investment. Sponsored by FASTSIGNS and The Payroll Department

If you or am loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, you have local resources and support available to you. Learn more. Sponsored by Whole Health Family Medicine Clinic and San Juan Basin Public Health

Outdoor concerts, a chance to win a Viking River Cruise for two, and an Elton John impersonator are a part of the post-pandemic Music in the Mountains Festival schedule as it returns to live performances this year. Sponsored by Kroegers Ace Hardware and Choice Building Supply Ace Hardware

The Four Corners Child Advocacy Center will be the beneficiary of the Dolores State Bank's inaugural Conquistador Classic Golf Tournament. The bank has challenged the center to raise $5,000 in July, and it will match that amount as part of golf tourney. Sponsored by TruWest Auto and Big O Tires

The LOR Foundation wants to help find the money, the know-how and the connections if you have a good idea to improve the community's livability. Sponsored by Express Employment Professionals and Whole Health Family Medicine Clinic

Exceptional drought conditions in Montezuma County and the Western Slope have prompted fire bans, water restrictions and a disaster declaration to help area farmers and ranchers cope with the financial impacts to their livelihoods. Sponsored by Whole Health Family Medicine Clinic and Express Employment Professionals