Email announcements to news@cortezjournal.com and include “Community Calendar” in the subject field. Items submitted less than two weeks in advance will be less likely to be published. Entries and the calendar may be edited for length and content.
Monday, March 2
The Montelores Early Childhood Council holds its monthly luncheon meeting at 11:45 a.m., in downstairs meeting room 110, in the Johnson Building, 925 South Broadway, in Cortez. The public is invited. Lunch will be provided, so RSVP to Vangi McCoy by calling 970-749-7017.
Tuesday, March 3
The Mesa Verde Back Country Horsemen feature a presentation by Sheriff Steve Nowlin titled “Possible Equestrian Opportunities and Emergency Preparedness” at the Elks Lodge, 2100 N. Dolores Rd., in Cortez. Arrive for dinner at 6:15 p.m. or buy your own meal. The presentation is at 7 p.m. Info: www.mesaverdehorsemen.com.
The Hisatsinom Chapter of the Colorado Archaeology Society presents Lillian D. Wakeley at 7 p.m. at the Methodist Church, 515 Park St., Cortez, to discuss the petroglyphs and other features along the San Juan River and geologic processes of the landscape. Call Kari Schleher at 505-269-4475 for info.
Wednesday, march 4
“Geology and Resources of the Four Corners,” presented by Jon Callender, of Mancos, 6:30-7:30 p.m. in The Gallery at The Cortez Cultural Center, 25 N. Market St. Callender was educated at Caltech and Harvard and taught geology at the University of New Mexico for many years.
Thursday, March 5
Mark Varien, Ph.D., of the Crow Canyon Research Institute, presents a Life-Long Learning Series lecture at Fort Lewis College at 7 p.m. in Noble Hall, Room 130. Varien will talk about the interaction between Puebloans and their environment, and where they went after leaving the area.
Fruit Tree Pruning Workshop, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Southwest Colorado Research station, 17 miles north on U.S. 491 and west one-quarter mile on Road Z. Register at the Montezuma extension at 565-3123 or the Dolores County extension at 677-2283. Cost: $15 per person the day of the workshop. Bring your chair, water, snacks and lunch, loppers or hand pruners, and dress warmly. Leave pets at home.
Friday, March 6
Mancos Valley Historical Society variety show presents the play “The Cowboy Kidnapping Mystery” at Mancos Opera House as part of the Mancos Melt celebration. Benefits historical society youth projects, renovation and a museum fund. Tickets on sale at the Mancos Visitors Center.
Live music by Last Nickel at the Columbine, AKA “The Avenger Bar,” at 9 p.m. 123 W. Grand Ave. Mancos. Special snacks and superhero/heroine costume contest.
Saturday, March 7
Mancos Melt golf tournament registration starts at 12:30 p.m. Saturday at the Columbine. Pick up score cards and position assignments for the 1 p.m. shotgun start. Bring putter and ball for each two-man team. Fee is $20 per team. Info: 533-7397.
Winter Plant Identification Hike at Mesa Verde National Park, 9 a.m. to noon. Join the San Juan/Four Corners Native Plant Society to learn how to identify plants in winter. Recommended for high school ages to adult. Call 970-882-4647 for reservations. Fee: $10 per vehicle.
The annual Millwood Follies at the Millwood Junction Restaurant, 101 Railroad Ave., Mancos. Doors open at 4 p.m. The acts start at 7 p.m. Dinner will be served until 10:30 p.m. Benefits Mancos Valley Pay It Forward.
Sunday, March 8
J Fargos Grill & Bar hosts a meet-and-greet with bounty hunters Clint Simmons and Dayson Goetz of the Animal Planet show “Rocky Mountain Bounty Hunters.” Get autographed pictures, food and selfies and watch a new episode, 6–9 p.m.
Tuesday, March 10
Speciality Crop Symposium at the Lewis-Arriola Community Center, 8:30 a.m.– 4 p.m. Held by CSU Extension, with LaPlata County Extension, Fort Lewis College and New Mexico State University. Cost: $20, including handouts, snacks and lunch. RSVP now with Darrin Parmenter at 970-382-6464.
Mancos Public Library screens “Mother Nature’s Child” at 6 p.m. This hour-long film explores nature’s role in children’s health and development and marks a moment when a living generation can still recall childhoods of free play outdoors. A community discussion will follow. Free. Chile and cornbread will be provided. Info: 533-7600.
Wednesday, March 11
San Juan/Four Corners Native Plant Society presents “Climbing with the Wildflowers in Ecuador” by John Bregar. At Lyceum Room, Center of Southwest Studies, Fort Lewis College, 6:30 p.m.
Thursday, March 12
A free legal self-help clinic for Montezuma County parties without an attorney are 2-4 p.m. at the Mancos Public Library, 211 W. First St. Volunteer attorneys will assist one-on-one, via computer link. First-come, first-served.
The Four Corners Back Country Horsemen hold their monthly meeting at 7 p.m. at the La Plata County Fairgrounds in Durango. Guests are encouraged to attend. TJ Holmes will discuss information on the Spring Creek Basin herd, including photos of the horses, use of PZP for birth control, and bait trapping vs. helicopters for gatherings. Info: 970-749-0316.
“2nd attempt for understanding Islam” is the topic at the “How You Can Be Part of a Christian Community with Integrity and Not Believe All Those Things You Thought You Had to Believe” conversation. Meet at St. Barnabas Church at 6:30 p.m. Questions required. No answers promised. Info: 565-7865.
Friday, march 13
Willson & McKee Concert, 7 p.m., Wright Opera House, 472 Main Street, Ouray. Adults $15, Children (12 and under) $5, Family $30. Tickets available online at www.ocpag.org or at the door.
Saturday, March 14
St. Patrick’s day bake sale to benefit For Pets Sake humane society, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at City Market north entrance. Baked goods can be dropped off at Saturday at 9:30 a.m. or Friday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Let It Grow. Call Catherine, 739-9854.
The League of Women Voters of Montezuma County host a breakfast meeting at 9 a.m. at the Ponderosa Restaurant in Dolores. Mike Preston, general manager of the Dolores Water Conservancy District, will discuss state water planning and give an update on the 2015 water supply forecast.
Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour. Two hours of outdoor films, raffle giveaways and a silent auction (Osprey, Silverton Mountain vouchers, rescue courses, etc.). Doors open at 6 p.m., Smiley Theater, 1309 East 3rd Ave. Tickets at http://rockymountainwild.org/banff-mountain-film-festival
Monday, March 16
Habitat For Humanity of Montezuma County holds free information session for low-income households interested in applying to partner with Habitat to become homeowners. Applicants must be residents of Montezuma County for at a year and stay for full meeting to receive application. Session is at 6 p.m., at Dolores Public Library. Info: 970-565-8312 or office@habitatmontezuma.org.
Tuesday, March 17
The San Juan National Forest hosts the discussion “Meet the Beetles,” to learn about the spruce beetle and its impact in San Juan forests. In the Vallecito Room in the Fort Lewis College Student Union Building, 6–8 p.m. Forest Service staff will be on hand at 5:30 p.m.
Habitat For Humanity of Montezuma County holds free information session for low-income households interested in applying to partner with Habitat to become homeowners. Applicants must be residents of Montezuma County for at a year and stay for full meeting to receive application. Session is at 6 p.m., at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, Cortez. Info: 970-565-8312 or office@habitatmontezuma.org.
Wednesday, March 18
Battle Rock Charter School hosts a family night for parents and children at 7 p.m., geared to prospective students. Presentation by teachers Justine Bayles and Tegan Lewis and students. Topics include Battle Rock enrollment and curriculum, the 4H club, and the horse program. Refreshments. At 11247 Road G, Cortez.
Thursday, March 19
Mancos Public Library screens “The Homestretch” at 6 p.m. The film follows three homeless teens as they fight to stay in school. It is part of American Graduate: Let’s Make It Happen, an initiative to help communities address dropout crisis. A community discussion will follow. The film premieres on April 13 on PBS (check local listings). Info: www.pbs.org/independentlens/homestretch/
Saturday, March 21
The Cortez Farmers Market invites vendors to its spring meeting at 2 p.m. at SW Memorial Hospital’s Physician Bldg., at 20 S. Market St. The meeting begins at 2 p.m. Topics include a financial and manager’s report, a review of 2014 and rules and regulations, and instructions and timelines for vendor applications. Info: Theresa at theresaincortez@gmail.com or (970)565-3123.
MONDAY, March 23
Habitat For Humanity of Montezuma County holds free information session for low-income households interested in applying to partner with Habitat to become homeowners. Applicants must be residents of Montezuma County for at a year and stay for full meeting to receive application. Session is at 6 p.m., at Mancos Public Library. Info: 970-565-8312 or office@habitatmontezuma.org.
Wednesday, April 1
Free eviction clinic for landlords and tenants at 3:30 p.m. at the Justice Building at 601 N. Mildred Road in Cortez. Info: 970-564-5029 from 8 a.m. to noon and 970-564-5073 from 1-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Saturday, APril 4
Dinner and A Movie at the Fort Lewis College Vallecita Room. Learn about Permaculture and the abundance it can bring and enjoy a Curry dinner. Dinner service starts at 6 p.m. with movies to follow. Info: 970-759-2724. A $5 donation is suggested.
Mesa Verde Back Country Horsemen request unwanted new or used equipment for the tack sale on April 4. All items will need to be gathered and cleaned before April 3. A volunteer signup sheet will be sent around at the March 3 meeting at the Elks Lodge in Cortez, 7 p.m.
All donations and consignments are welcome. If you have anything you wish to donate or consign or if you have any other questions, please contact Cindy Clare for details, 970-882-4255. Also, visit our website, www.mesaverdehorsemen.com
Saturday, April 25
Dinner and A Movie at the Sunflower Theatre in Cortez. Learn about Permaculture and the abundance it can bring and enjoy a Curry dinner. Dinner service starts at 6 p.m. with movies to follow. Info.: 970-759-2724. A $5 donation is suggested.
Mondays And Fridays
Cortez Public Library offers one-on-one computer and tech tutoring. Call 970-565-8117 or visit the library, 202 N. Park, to schedule an appointment.
First Monday
Southwest Center for Independence Second Chance Brain Injury group meets at noon at 2409 E. Empire, Cortez. Call Matthew, 570-8001.
Cortez Emblem Club No. 261 meets at 6:30 p.m. the first Monday (except in January and February). Call 565-2197.
First Tuesday
American Legion Ute Mountain Post 75 meets at 7 p.m. at the Legion Hall, 320 N. Harrison St. Call 565-8151.
Dolores Mountain Quilters meets 10 a.m. at the Dolores Community Center, 400 Riverside Ave. The March 3 meeting demonstrate two-step binding and disappearing pinwheels. Guests and visitors are welcome. Info: doloresmountainquilters.org or Judith Swain 970-560-4426.
The Mesa Verde Back Country Horsemen meet at the Elks Lodge in Cortez at 6:15 p.m. (except December). Buy a taco or hamburger and drink. The meeting starts at 7 p.m. Info: www.mesaverdehorsemen.com.
Second and Fourth Tuesdays
Knitting Club at the Mancos Public Library. Learn to knit, 6–7 p.m. Come to any or all sessions. Free. Teens and adults welcome. Limited knitting needles and yarn are available, so bring your own if possible. To sign up or for information, visit www.mancoslibrary.org or call Kathy Graf at 970-565-7600 ext. 206 or email kgraf@mancoslibrary.org.
First Wednesday
Diabetes support group meets 3:30–5 p.m. in the Kiva Room at Southwest Memorial Hospital. Learn to manage diabetes; share ideas. Sessions are free and open to anyone with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Contact Laura White, RD, at 564-2276 for details.
First Thursday
Montezuma County Republican Central Committee meets at noon at Shiloh Steakhouse. Email Nicci Crowley at montezumagop@gmail.com or call 570-9372.
Bariatric Surgery Weight Loss Support Group meets at 5-6:30 p.m. in the Kiva room at Southwest Memorial Hospital. Share ideas and exchange information with others. Free. Call Registered Dietitian Laura White, at 564-2276.
The Montezuma County VFW Post 5231 meets at 7 p.m. at the Post home in Mancos.
First Friday
First Friday Leadership at First National Bank in Cortez, 8–9 a.m. Free. Coffee and doughnuts at 7:45 a.m. Call Dena, 565-3414.
Caregiver/Advocate support group for caregivers of any person with Alzheimer’s, dementia or any chronic illness at noon at Vista Mesa Assisted Living, 1206 N. Mildred, Cortez. Discuss options with other caregivers. Lunch provided. Info: Elaine at the Alzheimer’s Assoc., 259-0122
Second Tuesday
The Mancos Water Conservancy District board meets at 7 p.m. at the district’s office, 42599 Road N, Mancos. Info: Gary Kennedy, 533-7325.
The Montezuma County Historical Society Board of Directors meets at 11:30 a.m. at the Cortez Elks Club and includes a no-host lunch. Anyone interested in area history is welcome.
Second Sunday
The Mancos Community Dinners, each month at Mt. Lookout Grange in Mancos (680 Grand Ave). Pay-what-you-can dinner, bring a dish if you want. To help or donate, call Gretchen, 509-830-4380.
Second Thursday
The Cortez Area Chamber of Commerce’s Business After Hours at various locations, 5–7 p.m. Call 565-3414.
The Southwest Woodworkers Guild meets at 7 p.m. at various locations. Woodworkers welcome, beginner to expert. Call Rick, 533-7180.
Montezuma County Republican Women meet at noon at Shiloh’s on Veach and Main St. All are welcome. Info: Rosemarie Beall at 564-1576.
A free legal self-help clinic for Montezuma County parties without an attorney are 2-4 p.m. at the Mancos Public Library, 211 W. First St. Volunteer attorneys will assist one-on-one, via computer link. First-come, first-served.
Summit Ridge Women’s Club seeks members to promote the organization and service club efforts of providing High School scholarships, sponsoring families in need during holiday events. The club meets once a month. For information, call Marie Chiarizia 757-395-0915.
Third Saturday
Christian Motorcycle Association – Cortez Chapter holds its 8 a.m. breakfast, 9 a.m. chapter meeting and 10 a.m. ride (weather permitting). At Jack & Janelle’s, 801 E. Main St. Call chapter president Steve Reed at 970-565-7233. No motorcycle required.
Third Wednesday
The Cortez Area Chamber of Commerce Luncheon is noon at Shiloh Steakhouse. Call 565-3414.
Caregiver/advocate support group for caregivers of any person with Alzheimer’s, dementia or any chronic illness at 6 p.m. at the Methodist Church, 515 North Park St. Cortez. Discuss options with other caregivers.
Third Thursday
Adult Computer Classes, 1:30-3 p.m. at Mancos Public Library Community Meeting Room 211, W. First St., Mancos. Call 970-533-7600 to enroll. No charge.
Dolores secondary PTO meets at 3:45 p.m. in Mr. Thurston’s office. Email Heather Alvarez at halvarez0722@gmail.com or call Tif at 903-8752.
Third Sunday
The Cortez Fire Protection District holds CPR and First-Aid certification classes at 9 a.m., Station 1, 30 N. Ash St., Cortez. Courses are six to eight hours and include CPR/AED, CPR/AED and First-Aid, Healthcare Provider CPR. Minimum class size is four students. Call 970-565-3157 to register.
Fourth Monday
The Southwest Center for Independence Potluck Lunch Group meets at noon, 2409 E. Empire St., Cortez. Call Matthew, 570-8001.
Fourth Tuesday
4 Corners Republican Women’s Club meets at 11:30 a.m. at the Cortez Elk’s Lodge. Info: 565-2197.
Fourth Thursday
Monthly Civil Air Patrol Senior Squadron’s monthly meeting, 6:30 p.m., First Baptist Church of Mancos, 150 N. Walnut St. Call 970-759-7012.
Last Wednesday
Bereavement Support Group for anyone dealing with a sudden, accidental, suicidal or traumatic death event at 5:15 p.m. Hospice of Montezuma, 1345 S. Broadway, Cortez. Info: 565-4400.
Last Thursday
The Mancos Public Library Board of Trustees meets at 5 p.m. in the library meeting room, 211 West First Street, Mancos. Info. 533-7600.
Every Monday
The Four Corners Community Band meets 7-9 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Cortez at the corner of Market and North Street. New members welcome. Call Fawn at 882-2522 or visit www.fourcornerscommunityband.com.
Every Tuesday
The Dolores Public Library answers technology/software questions about Microsoft Word, email, digital pictures, etc. Free at 2-5 p.m. Call 882-4127.
Free medical care, Tuesday 1 – 1:30 p.m., St. Barnabas Church, 110 W. North St., Cortez. Call 565-4436 to schedule, or show up. Limited primary and pediatric care.
The Mancos Public Library, 211 W. First St., continues the Little People Seasonal Storytime, at 10:30 a.m. The program follows the Mancos Re-6 schedule; runs through May. Children ages 2-6 will be taught songs, verses and stories. A craft is offered. Free. Call the library at 533-7600 or visit www.mancoslibrary.org.
“Joyful Noise” Children’s Choir starting in Mancos. Grades K-6, Homeschoolers welcome. Tuesdays, 4-4:45 p.m. at St. Paul’s Church, corner of Bauer and Oak in Mancos.
Every Wednesday
Yoga Flow with Lily, 9:30-11 a.m. at the Grange. Call 847-819-2039.
Bible studies at Chapel on the Farm, 6 p.m. 19927 Road 26.2 Loop, Dolores. 903-6153
Every Thursday
Raising Readers Storytime offers songs, stories, crafts and silliness, using the Early Childhood Literacy Initiative program at the Cortez Public Library, 202 N. Park St. For preschoolers at 10:30 a.m. Older children may attend the craft at 11:15 a.m. The theme for March is “Almost Spring.” “Mud” is on March 5; “Green,” on March 12; “Get Your Goat,” on March 19 and “Use Your Words” on March 26.
Free Community Dinner at 6 p.m. at the Cortez Family Worship Center Foursquare Church, 500 N. Washington. Donation appreciated. Call 565-3709.
Weekly weigh-ins available with the Waist Management Group, 4:40 to 5:30 p.m., 343 E. Main St., Suite 300, Cortez. Free. Info: Berta at 565-9515 or 739-6014 after 4:30 p.m.
Country music and dancing for residents at the Cortez Senior Center, 7–10 p.m.
Overcomers Outreach bridges the gap between 12-Step recovery groups and churches of all denominations. Christ-centered and Bible-based. Evangel Assembly of God, 209 W. 5th St., Cortez. 6:30 p.m. Call James, 303-519-7523.
Elks Bingo. New hours, beginning at 7 p.m. Come eat, play and visit.
Every Friday
Friendship Social Group, 1 p.m. at Beny’s Diner, 640 S. Broadway, Cortez. For those looking for support with finding friends and social activities after a loss, or need a break as a caregiver. Sponsored by Hospice of Montezuma.
TOPS (Take off Pounds Sensibly) meets at 11:30 a.m. in the Community Room at the Cortez Public Library.
“Bereavement & Caregiver Support Group, 1 p.m. Hospice of Montezuma. Call Sunny for information and location. 565-4400.