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

Avalanche deaths reached near-record levels in Colorado during the 2022/23 winter season. Friends of the San Juans is doing its part to reduce that number this season by leading education and outreach efforts throughout the Four Corners. Despite low early-season snowpack, experts warn there is still a risk for slides. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Keesee Motors and Southwest Health System

Looking to spread some Christmas cheer this season? Pick up a tag for the Rotary Club of Dolores’ Angel Tree Gift Program and give a gift to a local child, senior, or community member in need. Gifts are due at the Dolores Public Library on December 19th. The Dolores Public Library is continuing its holiday celebrations with an evening with Santa Claus on December 15th. Whether you're wanting to create a homemade gift or just spend a night crafting with friends, Belle and the Bear invites you to register for its macrame workshop at Fenceline Cider on December 15th. On December 16th, the Cortez Public Library is holding an ugly sweater Christmas Party competition, complete with hot chocolate, a photo booth, and prizes for the top winners. By Rachel Hughes. This story is sponsored by TruWest Auto and Blondie’s Trophy Room

The Four Corners Professional Women’s Summit has experienced significant growth over the past four years. The event encourages women from the Four Corners area and beyond to network, connect with professionals, and celebrate the community of Farmington. The recent summit, themed "Balancing 'Act'," focused on the challenges of maintaining balance in life. Speakers included Mary Bono, a former congresswoman, and Jennifer McCoy, an Air Force veteran and businesswoman, who shared insights on life's balancing act. The summit coincided with the Business-to-Business Expo, showcasing Four Corners businesses and providing networking opportunities. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by Three Rivers Brewery and Big Idea Makerspace at San Juan College

The Galloping Goose Historical Society Museum in Dolores is holding its annual Christmas celebration this Saturday, December 9. This weekend is your last opportunity to participate in Community Connections’ Festival of Wreaths and scavenger hunt as it is coming to a close on Sunday, December 10th. Tickets to Sunflower Troupe’s holiday comedy, Miracle on South Division Street, are now on sale, with performances running December 8 through 17. Mancos Public Library will host two upcoming holiday events: a holiday book sale and Christmas crafting. At the Cortez Public Library, join Fire Chief Roy W. for basic fire training on December 14. By Rachel Hughes. This story is sponsored by FASTSIGNS and Choice Building Supply

The Local NEWS Network offers our condolences to the friends and family of Sgt. Michael Moran, and to the City of Cortez and the Cortez Police Department.

Growing from a small group of ski instructors to a 200-stong volunteer organization, Adaptive Sports Association has expanded over the past 40 years. Founded on the principles that sport and outdoor recreation are tools that can be used to better people’s lives, Adaptive Sports offers programs ranging from skiing lessons in the winter to whitewater rafting and mountain biking in the summer. The programs are made possible with the dedicated efforts of volunteers as well as enthusiastic participants, and with 40 years of programing, Adaptive certainly has a lot to celebrate. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by Alpine Bank

Get your holiday shopping done and support local artists and entrepreneurs this season with Cortez’s Young Entrepreneur Showcase, Mancos’ Artist Sunday, and Dolores’ arts and crafts markets. Then, celebrate the season with food, music, and Santa at Mancos Valley’s Olde Fashioned Christmas on Friday, December 1st. By Rachel Hughes. This story is sponsored Big O Tires and The Lor Foundation

Mancos High School finished the season on a five-game winning streak, good enough to earn a number one seed in the Colorado 8-Man football state playoff bracket. That seed paves a path to a deep playoff run, and perhaps a rematch against the only team that beat the Blue Jays this season, Haxtun High School. The Blue Jays wrote a balanced script in 2023, featuring both an explosive offense and suffocating defense all season. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Southwest Health System and Keesee Motor Company