The City of Aztec has updated its 2024 Metropolitan Redevelopment Area Master Plan, focusing on improvements to the historic downtown area and seeking feedback from community stakeholders. On September 14th, the Aztec Ruins National Monument will host the 2024 Indigenous Cultural Arts Festival, showcasing artwork from various Southwest nations, along with live performances. And San Juan College will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with "Fiesta at Sunset" on September 13th, featuring traditional dance performances, a car show, and other festivities. By Hannah Roberston.

Watch this story at www.farmingtonlocal.news/newsstories/aztec-releases-mra-plan-draft-for-review

This story is sponsored by Boon's Family Thai BBQ and The Big Idea Makerspace at San Juan College.

The second annual Bike Prom celebrates cycling subculture at The Powerhouse on September 14th. The event features a bike-parade, bike games, music and more. Participants are encouraged to find silly, funky costumes harkening back to high school prom. The event is billed as “the low budget prom you always loved and never knew you needed.” By Connor Shreve.

Watch this story at www.farmingtonlocal.news/newsstories/bike-bash-brewing

This story is sponsored by Tafoya, Barrett & Associates and FLC Center for Innovation.

San Juan County is hosting several events in September, starting with a county-wide competition to combat hunger as part of Hunger Action Month. Local businesses can participate in a food drive organized by ECHO Food Bank to support those facing food insecurity. The community is also invited to celebrate the end of summer with a free concert at the Aztec Museum and Pioneer Village on September 13th. The City of Farmington will observe National Day of Service on September 7th with various volunteer opportunities, including park clean-ups and landscaping projects. By Hannah Robertson.

Watch this story at www.farmingtonlocal.news/newsstories/combat-hunger-in-san-juan-county

This story is sponsored by Ace Hardware of Farmington and Durango Motor Company.

The Outdoor Recreation Industry Initiative is launching a hiking series to help beginner and advanced hikers alike enjoy the hikes the Four Corners region has to offer. A new endowment fund with Four Corners Economic Development and San Juan College is offering grant opportunities for local small businesses and entrepreneurs. And the final phase of paving on Road 6580 has begun, so pay attention to road signs and new closures. By Hannah Robertson.

Watch this story at www.farmingtonlocal.news/newsstories/orii-hiking-series-launches

This story is sponsored by M&R Plumbing and SunRay Park and Casino.

The Northwest New Mexico Arts Council is one of 100 nonprofits nationwide to earn a grant from Lowe’s Hometowns to invest in the community. The money is being used to develop the outdoor space at the newly opened historic Leanor Hotel. The space will be used to teach underserved teens service industry skills. The Leanor Hotel aims to be a safe gathering space for teens across the county. By Connor Shreve.

Watch this story at www.farmingtonlocal.news/newsstories/aztec-development-gets-grant-funding

This story is sponsored by Home2Suites and Traegers bar.

Tickets are now available for several exciting events in Farmington, including the 2024 Four Corners Professional Women’s Summit, on November 6th-7th. Registration is also open for the Road Apple Rally, America’s longest-running mountain bike race, taking place in October, with new race options and community activities. The beloved "Dining with the Dead" event is returning on September 7th, allowing participants to explore Farmington’s history through cemetery tours. And Chili in October-Fest is seeking vendors and participants for its annual cook-off on October 5th, featuring spaces for both home cooks and restaurants. By Hannah Robertson.

Watch this story at www.farmingtonlocal.news/newsstories/four-corners-professional-womens-summit-returns

This story is sponsored by Distill Beer Wine Spirits and Traegers Bar.

Small business owners are invited to take part in the upcoming Small Business Opportunity Day on August 13th. Registration for the La Plata Economic Alliance Summit hosted at Sky Ute Casino Convention Center is now open for the September 19th event. Applications are still open for FEMA relief for current or future damage from the storms on June 20th and 21st, and the Four Corners Musical Theatre presents the Wizard of Oz. By Hannah Robertson.

Watch this story at www.farmingtonlocal.news/newsstories/small-business-networking-opportunities

This story is sponsored by Boon’s Family Thai BBQ and Durango Motor Company.

While Mesa Verde National Park is celebrated for its historic cliff dwellings and archaeological sites, many may be surprised to learn about the presence of wild horses roaming the park. The National Mustang Association of Colorado (NMACO) has undertaken the Mesa Verde Project to relocate these horses, aiming to preserve the park's cultural heritage. This effort is driven by the park's role, which excludes horse management responsibilities under the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act of 1971, placing such duties with the Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service. By Sadie Smith.

Watch this story at www.farmingtonlocal.news/newsstories/the-mesa-verde-project

This story is sponsored by Big O Tires and Blondie's Trophy Room.