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Muscadine Bloodline opens 103rd Stampede

Muscadine Bloodline – Charlie Muncaster and Gary Stanton
MONTE VISTA - Alabama duo Muscadine Bloodline – Charlie Muncaster and Gary Stanton – worked the packed crowd into a frenzy at the opening concert of the 103 rd annual Ski-Hi Stampede in …
More local news

AG Weiser: ‘Stand your ground and fight’

ALAMOSA — Phil Weiser, Colorado’s attorney general and 2026 candidate for the Democratic nomination to be governor, pledged to the people of Colorado to block the policy agenda of President Trump in those areas that were bad for the state of Colorado and its people. Six months into the administration, Weiser is proving time and again that he is true to his word. 

Celebrating recovery and Hope in the Valley

ALAMOSA — On July 10, a one-year anniversary celebration was held at the Hope in the Valley addiction recovery center in Alamosa.  David Herrera, Community Engagement Coordinator with Hope in the Valley, told the Valley Courier that over one hundred well-wishers attended the event, underscoring the crucial role of community support in the center's success. 

El Pomar Foundation approves $82,000 to organizations in SLV

COLORADO SPRINGS — El Pomar Trustees approved $82,000 allocated to 11 nonprofit organizations and government agencies in the San Luis Valley region at the Foundation’s May Trustees meeting. Through the Foundation’s grant making process, the following organizations were awarded grants: 

Mineral County welcomes new Undersheriff

MINERAL COUNTY - Mineral County Sheriff Terry Wetherill was pleased to announce the promotion of Mike Castro to the position of Mineral County Undersheriff. Castro has been on the force since moving to Creede in January and is eager to further serve the community to the best of his ability. 

SLV Health recognizes Rep. Martinez for his support

ALAMOSA — On Thursday, June 26, Representative Matt Martinez was formally recognized by the leadership at San Luis Valley Health for his support of rural healthcare and his advocacy for key pieces of legislation this term. Rep. Martinez, who represents Colorado House District 62 and is the Majority Co-Whip, has been a vocal advocate for rural healthcare in Colorado since being elected to his position in 2023.  

ASU School of Education earns successful five-year reauthorization

ALAMOSA – Adams State University is proud to announce the successful five-year reauthorization of its educator preparation programs, as unanimously approved by the Colorado State Board of Education during regular meeting in May. This reauthorization affirms the quality, effectiveness, and continued impact of the School of Education and School of Counselor Education in preparing the next generation of educators and school leaders. 
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Community
Hiking and camping along the Rio Grande/Rio Bravo is stunning. Wildlife sightings of Mexican Black Bear, Bald Eagles, and Bighorn Sheep are not uncommon. 

The Lower Canyons: The Rio Grande like nowhere else

RIO GRANDE — Far downstream from the San Luis Valley, the Rio Grande runs through Big Bend National Park where river enthusiasts experience stunning canyons with 1,500-foot walls. Downstream, past the park and these deep canyons, the Rio flows through what is known as the Lower Canyons, a remote, wild, and stunningly beautiful area.  

New affordable housing coming to Saguache

SAGUACHE — A new affordable housing development supported by Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) will be built in Saguache.  Range View, a public-private partnership between Saguache County and Northwest Real Estate Capital Corp. celebrated its groundbreaking on July 9. 
On July 4, the Saguache Volunteer Fire Department and other fire departments rocked the town, with vendors, games, a dunk tank, a live DJ, delicious food and much more. 

Saguache’s Stars and Stripes Block Party was a success

SAGUACHE - On July 4, the Saguache Volunteer Fire Department and other fire departments rocked the town, with vendors, games, a dunk tank, a live DJ, delicious food and much more.  
Sports
Adams State University Grizzly Club membership drive live now
The Grizzly Club Membership program is now open as Adams State University kicks off its 2025-26 membership drive, inviting alumni, fans, and supporters to invest in the future of …
Unofficial draw for local competitors at NHSFR
The unofficial draw for the 2025 National High School Finals Rodeo was released last week with two locals learning when they will perform. Rivers Hill of Saguache will be …
Emily Tibbitts
Six Alamosa girls soccer players named All-League
The Intermountain League released its All-League girls soccer team in late May. League champion Alamosa led the way with six selections including four on the first team. …
Opinion
Most of you know that Ol’ Dutch and Miss Trixie have managed to stay together now for a long 13 years. And those of you that know us personally realize that it is only due to Ol’ Dutch’s calm demeanor, good looks, kind disposition and loving nature. Well, something like that. 
Obituaries
Obituaries
Mary Virginia Olivas
Mary Virginia Olivas, 73, passed away peacefully at home on Feb. 24, 2025. Virginia and Manuel J Olivas, were happily married for over 38 years.
Douglas Henry Jones
With heavy hearts, we are sad to announce the passing of Doug H Jones in Alamosa, Colo., on June 4, 2025, at the age of 68.
Eva Trujillo
Please join us for a celebration of life service honoring Eva Trujillo which will be held June 28 at 11 a.m. at the City of Monte Vista Conference and Event Center at SLV Ski Hi Complex. 
Robert W Naudack
Robert W Naudack passes away on June 3, 2025, at the age of 95 in Denver, Colo.  Robert was born in Alamosa, Colo., on Dec. 24, 1929, to Robert (Doc) Naudack and Eunice Barnes. 
Dale T. Berkbigler, M.D.
Dale passed away peacefully on June 2, 2025, surrounded by his family at his mountain home near Del Norte, Colo. 
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