Headlines

Local News

New Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Interim CEO wants to ‘make chocolate fun again’

Al Harper plans to move RMCF away from ‘corporate’ model, address financial woes

July 6, 2026

Local News

Car owners put Americana on full display during Cortez’s July 4 celebration

More than 70 old cars and modern models gleamed in the sun for the 250th celebration of the United States…

July 5, 2026

Education

Montezuma-Cortez School District to host informational event on special education services

The event is open to all parents and guardians, even without a child in special education

July 5, 2026

Local News

Operations team grows for Ferris Fire as it spreads

Because of the fire’s size/logistics, a complex incident management team has been ordered

July 4, 2026

Local News

Fireworks lit up the Cortez sky after mayor urged civility in Fourth of July fireworks debate

‘We’re going to do everything in our power to make sure that it is a safe and fun Fourth of…

July 4, 2026

Local News

Teen tribal members invited to apply for Colorado Youth Advisory Council

40 students connect with Colorado lawmakers to influence state policy

July 4, 2026

For the record

Police blotter

Journal/Sam Green Cortez Police Department badge Thursday, June 25 11:42 a.m.: An officer responded to the Montezuma County Detention Center,…

July 4, 2026

Local News

Ferris Fire crosses Dolores River Canyon, prompting additional evacuations

Residents can go to Pleasant View Fire Department to seek shelter

July 3, 2026

Local News

Stage 2 fire restrictions enacted at Mesa Verde National Park, Yucca House National Monument

Conditions took effect on Friday

July 3, 2026

Local News

Gunnison, Meeker, Bayfield and Cortez plan July Fourth fireworks

‘We know how to mitigate the risks,’ Gunnison County fire chief says

July 3, 2026

Local News

Southwest Health System seeks community members for open board positions

Applications are due by the end of July

July 3, 2026

Local News

Ferris Fire resources focused to west Dolores Rim to fight spread, protect homes

Blaze grows to 27,380 acres Thursday morning

July 2, 2026

For the record

Sheriff’s blotter

Wednesday, June 16

July 2, 2026

Local News

7th Street affordable housing plans draw mixed reactions from Cortez residents

Limited land and competing priorities prompt value questions about units, green space

July 2, 2026

Sports

Montezuma-Cortez graduate receives Roy Halladay award prior to entering U.S. Naval Academy

Senior and baseball player recognized for academics, athletics, leadership and service

July 2, 2026

Local News

Montezuma County Republicans nominate Cox for commissioner, Frizzell for county clerk

Unofficial final primary results reported Wednesday evening

July 1, 2026

Regional News

Dwayne Romero beats fellow Aspenite Alex Kelloff in CD3

Romero had 55.2% of the vote to Kelloff’s 44.8% when The Associated Press called the race at 8:01 p.m.

July 1, 2026

Local News

Ferris Fire’s next complexity emerges in Doe Canyon

Blaze at 23,000 acres Wednesday as crews report progress protecting homes

July 1, 2026

New Mexico

Will betting on wildfires lead to arson?

Fire survivors say using prediction markets to gamble on wildfire is “morally reprehensible”

July 1, 2026

Local News

Despite regional fires, Cortez still plans to host July 4 fireworks show

While multiple blazes burn in the Four Corners, Cortez officials say the show will go on, weather permitting

July 1, 2026

Local News

While firefighters battle Ferris Fire, San Juan National Forest enacts Stage 2 fire restrictions

These restrictions will come into effect on Wednesday

July 1, 2026

Community

Montezuma County to hold first canine election at Wags & Wine event

This will be Montezuma County’s first ‘Mutt Mayor’

July 1, 2026

Local News

Fourth of July celebrations to fill Four Corners with parades, music and fireworks

Communities to mark America’s 250th with festivals, family activities

July 1, 2026

Community Calendar

Community Calendar: What’s happening in the Cortez area

CORTEZ Thursday, July 9 American Sniper Viewing, 5 p.m., Cortez Public Library 202 N Park St. U.S.Navy SEAL Chris Kyle,…

July 1, 2026