Darrin Parmenter has been at the heart of gardening in La Plata County for 17 years. He worked as county director and CSU extension horticulturist in La Plata County for 17 years, in addition to co-hosting the Garden Guys radio show on KSUT. Now he’s coordinating Extension efforts across 16 western Colorado counties as Colorado State University Extension’s Western Regional Director. Extension programs bring research and education from state land grant universities to members of the community who aren’t necessarily enrolled in the university. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Serious Texas BBQ and Denise Elliott, State Farm Agent.

Mancos Days celebrations begin Friday, July 26th, and run through Sunday, July 28th. Each day will feature live music, vendor booths, food, sports tournaments, and other activities. As part of Mancos Days, the Mancos Public Library is holding a book sale with early access for Mancos Friends of the Library members. Registration for Cortez Recreation Center’s co-ed softball is open through Monday, July 22nd. Mancos Public Library, in collaboration with Willowtail Springs, is hosting a writing workshop on Tuesday, July 30th, at 6:30 p.m., taught by Lynn Sikkink. By Rachel Hughes. This story is sponsored by Blondie’s Trophy Room and Keesee Motor Company.

Pagosa Springs-based company Voormi embodies Southwest Colorado. Its equipment is developed in a local warehouse, then tested in the San Juan Mountains. With a background in guiding, co-founder Dustin English wanted to get more performance out of less gear, so he decided to try to change the textile industry. Voormi weaves locally developed technology into traditional textiles to create some of the most versatile gear available. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by The Payroll Department and Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers.

Mancos Public Library is kicking off its adult summer reading program on Friday, July 12th from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. with a potluck and book discussion. The League of Women Voters of Montezuma County is conducting a discussion to explain a proposed country sales tax and how it will be used. On Tuesday, July 16th, Ashley Smith of the nonprofit consulting agency Sage Advice and Marcie Bidwell of Land Trust Alliance are holding a workshop on grant writing for rural communities. The Cortez Cultural Center will be displaying illustrations by Brad Goodell throughout the month of July. By Rachel Hughes. This story is sponsored by TruWest Auto and Hospice of Montezuma.

El Pomar Foundation approved grants for 10 organizations in Southwest Colorado. The Historic Cortez Coloring Book is now available for pickup at the Montezuma Heritage Museum and Cortez Cultural Center and to download online. The Cortez and Dolores Public Libraries’ summer reading programs are underway with special events through the end of the month. By Rachel Hughes. This story is sponsored by Keesee Motor Company and Big O Tires.

Plan your 4th of July celebrations with a variety of events in the Four Corners area. The City of Cortez will host a fireworks show at Parque de Vida on July 4th, organized by the Cortez Fire Protection District, with special T-shirts available for purchase. For more fireworks, head to Farmington on July 3rd or Bloomfield on July 5th. Durango offers 30 different events from July 3rd to 6th, in collaboration with local organizations. Montezuma County Fairgrounds will feature the Red, White, and Bucking Bulls event on July 4th. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by Choice Building Supply and Hospice of Montezuma.

The City of Cortez is updating its Land Use Code and is inviting community members to learn more and share their input. The local nonprofit Community Connections announced that it will be separating into two entities to accommodate regulatory changes and organizational growth. Cortez Tours is leading free, guided art tours on the first Friday of each month through October with the next tour starting at 4:00 p.m. on July 5th. Mesa Verde Country’s monthly business partners meeting is this Thursday, June 27th at 2:30 p.m. By Rachel Hughes. This story is sponsored by Big O Tires and Blondie’s Trophy Room.

With hot, dry conditions forecast in the months ahead, utilizing water efficient practices in your yard can provide major benefits. Though the Southwest climate makes saving water difficult, a rain garden can help lower your water bills, reduce water waste and mitigate flooding. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Kroegers Ace Hardware and Serious Texas BBQ.

The 7th annual Cortez Celtic Fair is this Saturday, June 22nd, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Parque de Vida with free admission and activities for all ages. Later that evening, the Montezuma County Fairgrounds is hosting Monster Truck Militia. The Station Boutique in Cortez took advantage of the Beautification Mini-Grant, designed to assist small businesses enhance their public entrances, to upgrade its storefront with a new sign. Grant applications are still open through October 1st. The City of Cortez is seeking to fill several positions including new full-time listings as well part-time and season openings. By Rachel Hughes. This story is sponsored by Keesee Motor Company and TruWest Auto.

The Ute Mountain Roundup Rodeo celebrated its 94th year with flair and excitement. From honoring First Responders and Military personnel to showcasing the thrill of rodeo competition, this event brought together the community for a weekend of entertainment and camaraderie. With over $80,000 in payouts and strong community support, this year's rodeo proved to be one of the most memorable yet. By Sadie Smith. This story is sponsored by Big O Tires and Hospice of Montezuma.