Tag: Southwest Colorado

Happy New Year from Mancos!Happy New Year from Mancos!

Happy New Year! What a busy fall! Lot’s of buyer even though interest rates for a 30 year conventional loan hovered around 7%. When I bought my first home the interest rates was 10%. Fall in love with the home not the interest rate. You can always refinance. Bad Credit? There are always some homes on the market that offer owner financing with very little down. If you plan to stay in the area more than 2 years definitely buy and not rent. The fall also brought some huge challenges for me with family and health, so I am happy that is in the past.

In December we hosted a community Christmas Dinner and we had 49 people! Long ago, Mancos always had one but it stopped so I felt that tradition should be brought back. Downtown Mancos is changing! The Mancos Commons building next to my office will be done this Spring and have 3 rentals plus a workshop. Raven House, the art gallery after 15 years is closing up shop due to rent being raised. The Absolute Bakery changed ownership and is now closed for 2 months for remodeling! I got a new stamped concrete sidewalk in December and love it! Stop by if you are in town- 145 W. Grand Ave.

We had very little snow in December and I am happy to say that it finally snowed this am!

Got kids and thinking of moving to Mancos Colorado? How are the schools?Got kids and thinking of moving to Mancos Colorado? How are the schools?

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Colorado, Mancos boasts a school system that offers more than just education—it provides a gateway to growth, community, and a promising future. Here’s why Mancos schools stand out:

1. Academic Excellence:

  • Mancos schools prioritize academic achievement with a dedicated teaching staff committed to student success.
  • Small class sizes enable personalized attention, fostering better learning experiences.

2. Holistic Learning:

  • The curriculum goes beyond textbooks, emphasizing real-world applications and critical thinking.
  • Students engage in experiential learning, outdoor education, and projects that ignite their creativity.

3. Supportive Community:

  • Mancos is a close-knit community where educators, parents, and local businesses collaborate to nurture students. Last year I was a mentor for a high school entrepreneur class that got kids thinking and gave them 6 college credits.
  • Strong community involvement translates to a well-rounded education that extends beyond the classroom.

4. Cultural Enrichment:

  • Mancos values diversity and offers programs that celebrate different cultures and backgrounds.
  • Cultural awareness is integrated into the curriculum, broadening students’ global perspectives.

5. Technology Integration:

  • Mancos schools embrace technology as a tool for learning, equipping students with essential digital skills.
  • Interactive classrooms and tech resources prepare students for a tech-driven world.

6. Extracurricular Opportunities:

  • Mancos believes in the importance of a balanced education and offers a wide range of extracurricular activities. The whole town (almost) comes to the football and basketball games!
  • Sports, arts, clubs, and organizations allow students to pursue their passions beyond academics.

7. College and Career Readiness:

  • Mancos schools prepare students for higher education whether that is college or trade schoos and future careers through counseling and guidance programs.
  • Partnerships with local businesses create internship opportunities, bridging the gap between education and industry.

In Mancos, education goes beyond the classroom walls. It’s about nurturing well-rounded individuals who are prepared to take on challenges, contribute to society, and lead meaningful lives. The schools of Mancos, Colorado, stand as beacons of opportunity, enriching the lives of students and the community they serve.

Ways To Stay Cool This Summer!Ways To Stay Cool This Summer!

It is hot out! Here are some great ways to fight the heat and stay cool this summer:

Lake Nighthorse – 2 miles southwest of Durango. $10 daily pass. Swimming, fishing, hiking, boating, and there is an inflatable course as well. 

Jackson Lake – Mancos State Park $10 daily pass. Boating, fishing. Camping. Biking. No swimming.

McPhee Reservoir – Outside of Dolores. Camping, fishing, boating, biking, hiking, and cliff jumping. FREE except for camping. Second largest lake in Colorado!

Dolores River – FREE. There are beach areas that are perfect for families. Swim, paddle board, kayak. 

Cortez Outdoor Pool – $3 youth, $5 adult. Open Swim 1-4:50 pm every day. 

Durango Rec Center – $6 youth, $7.50 adult. Climbing wall, gym, pool, outdoor splash pad, water slide, and racquetball courts. 

Durango Hot Springs – Youth $15, Adult $39. 32 natural hot springs mineral pools. Swimming pool, cold plunges, and more. 9am-10pm daily.

Lost Hiker, Ian O’Brien has a huge network searching for him. #findianobrienLost Hiker, Ian O’Brien has a huge network searching for him. #findianobrien

This is a picture of Twin Lakes, with Hesperus Mountain above. Please keep a lost hiker, Ian O’Brien in your prayers and the search party. If you are able to hike, join the team by meeting at Lucy Halls Park up Echo Basin. Ian, an avid outdoorsman went missing after climbing to top of Hesperus Mountain. Hundreds of friends, family and volunteers have been scouring the mountain. Our Mancos community, has been providing support with food, drones, horses, ATV’s, prayers, and boots on the ground. #findianobrien