The San Luis Valley Beat
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"Valley Secrets Revealed: Amish Success, New Police Chief, Seed Exchange, and Perfect Beer Brats!"
"Valley Secrets Revealed: Amish Success, New Police Chief, Seed Exchange, and Perfect Beer Brats!"
"Valley Secrets Revealed: Amish Success, New Police Chief, Seed Exchange, and Perfect Beer Brats!"
Uncover the secrets of spring, discover the thriving Amish community, meet the new police chief, and join us at the Seed Exchange! Plus, learn how to make backyard beer brats like a pro! 🌸🌾👮🍻 #SpringSymphonies #AmishFlourish #SeedExchange #NewPoliceChief #BeerBrats- Done Right!
Frank V Flohr
Mar 31, 2026
Trivia Question❓Center, Colorado is located in how many counties? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
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As winter fades in the San Luis Valley, potato planting season returns—bringing renewed energy to local fields and families.
The valley’s high altitude, cool nights, and mineral-rich soil make it a prime location for growing top-quality potatoes.
Each spring, local farmers prepare their fields and carefully plant seed potatoes, setting the stage for a fruitful harvest later in the year.
Russet, Red, and Yukon Gold potatoes are the most common varieties here, each prized for distinct flavors and uses—from fluffy baked potatoes to savory roasts and salads.
Spring’s arrival is more than just a farming ritual—these weeks carry hope, as growers work long hours to dodge late frosts and plant their crops at the perfect moment.
Every potato enjoyed across the region is a tribute to this season of hard work, optimism, and the enduring bond between community and land. Read More... |
Small Business Spotlight |
Star Drive-In Opens April 1 at the Movie Manor |
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A true San Luis Valley favorite is back for the season. The Star Drive-In, located at the Best Western Movie Manor in Monte Vista, officially opens April 1—bringing back one of the valley’s most unique dining experiences.
There’s something special about grabbing a burger, fries, or a shake and enjoying it alongside a movie under the open sky. Whether you’re watching from your car or just stopping in for a meal, the Star Drive-In blends classic drive-in flavor with the one-of-a-kind atmosphere the Movie Manor is known for.
For many locals, opening day marks the unofficial start of spring. After a long winter, the return of the Star Drive-In is a welcome sight—and a great excuse to get out and enjoy an evening in Monte Vista. If you’ve never experienced it, this is the year to check it out. And if you’re a regular, you already know—it’s just not spring in the valley until the Star Drive-In is back open. Opening Day: April 1
Location: Best Western Movie Manor, Monte Vista Early Season Movie ScheduleMovies play every day
May Lineup
Note: Screen #2 opens in May. April features movies on Screen #1 only. |
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The San Luis Valley is home to Colorado’s largest Amish settlement, centered around Monte Vista and its rural surroundings. The Amish first arrived in the early 2000s and have become a vital, if quieter, part of the region’s identity. Many families still travel by horse-drawn buggies, and their commitment to tradition adds a distinctive rhythm to local life. Agriculture remains central—hay, livestock, and family gardens shape daily routines—but Amish-run businesses now also define the community’s presence. Bulk food shops, bakeries, and furniture stores dot the backroads near Monte Vista, earning praise for their craftsmanship and honest dealings. For residents and visitors, these stores offer more than just goods—they embody a spirit of hard work and self-reliance deeply woven into the valley’s fabric. The Amish community’s quiet focus on faith and family provides a gentle reminder of tradition, enriching Monte Vista with a slower, more intentional way of life. Read More... |
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Easter weekend is shaping up to be a busy one across the San Luis Valley, with communities hosting egg hunts and family-friendly celebrations from Friday through Sunday. Here’s a look at the confirmed events happening around the Valley. La Jara Easter Egg Hunt Monte Vista Police Department Easter Egg Hunt South Fork Easter Egg Hunt Alamosa Community Easter Egg Hunt 7th Annual Paul Pacheco Easter Egg Hunt Fort Garland Easter Egg Hunt SLV P.A.C.C. Easter Party Saguache Community Easter Egg Hunt |
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Center of It All: A Look at Center, ColoradoTucked into the heart of the San Luis Valley, the town of Center, Colorado lives up to its name in more ways than one. Located near the geographic center of the valley—and uniquely spanning both Rio Grande and Saguache counties—Center plays a quiet but essential role in one of Colorado’s most productive agricultural regions.
While it may not have the size of nearby hubs like Alamosa or Monte Vista, Center is surrounded by something just as important: farmland that feeds the nation. The San Luis Valley is one of the highest altitude agricultural valleys in the world, and the fields surrounding Center are especially well known for their potato production. In fact, potatoes grown here are shipped across the United States, thanks to the valley’s rich volcanic soil, cool nights, and sunny days.
One of the most recognizable sights around Center can be seen from the road—or even better, from the air. Large green circles stretch across the landscape, created by center pivot irrigation systems that efficiently water crops in this high desert environment. These circular fields have become a defining visual of the valley and a symbol of the ingenuity that keeps agriculture thriving here.
Life in Center reflects the rhythm of the seasons. Spring planting, summer growth, and fall harvest all shape the pace of the community. While the town itself remains small, it serves as a hub for local farms, businesses, and families who have deep roots in the valley.
Center may not always make headlines, but its impact is felt far beyond the San Luis Valley. From the fields that surround it to the crops that leave it, this small town truly sits at the center of something much bigger. |
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Q/A Questions |
Q: What is the population of Center, Colorado? A: The population of Center, Colorado is approximately 2,200. Q: What is the main industry in Center, Colorado? A: The main industry in Center, Colorado is agriculture, specifically potato farming. Q: What is the nearest major city to Center, Colorado? A: The nearest major city to Center, Colorado is Alamosa, located about 15 miles away. |
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Randall Aragon steps in as the new police chief of Center, Colorado, ready to shape a community-focused approach drawn from over 30 years in law enforcement.
Aragon’s previous leadership in Fairbanks, Alaska, and La Marque, Texas, has equipped him with a broad perspective on small-town policing challenges.
He plans to devote his early months to listening and learning before introducing changes, stressing the importance of collaboration and thoughtful transition.
Central to his strategy is a visible, engaged police presence, focused on community trust, problem-solving, and public safety.
Aragon emphasizes the value of community policing, aiming to instill it within Center for the first time and mentor future leaders along the way.
With his leadership, residents can expect a proactive, partnership-driven department dedicated to building stronger connections across the city. Read More... |
Tip of The Day |
Explore the beautiful San Luis Valley by taking a scenic drive along Highway 112 in Center, Colorado. Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys while learning about the history and culture of this unique area. |
Small Business Spotlight |
Monte Vista Mercantile |
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Centrally located along Grande Avenue in the historic old Co-op building, the Monte Vista Mercantile is quickly becoming a go-to stop for both locals and visitors exploring the heart of Monte Vista.
Blending the feel of a classic general store with a thoughtfully curated selection of modern goods, the Mercantile offers a little something for everyone. Inside, you’ll find a mix of unique gifts, home décor, locally inspired items, and everyday essentials—all chosen to reflect the character and charm of the San Luis Valley.
It’s the kind of place where you can take your time browsing, discover something unexpected, and walk out with a piece that feels just right—whether it’s for your home or a gift for someone else.
What really sets the Monte Vista Mercantile apart is the atmosphere. More than just a retail shop, it serves as a welcoming space that brings people together while supporting a locally rooted business with deep ties to the community.
Whether you're passing through town or a longtime resident, the Monte Vista Mercantile is well worth a stop the next time you're on Grande Avenue. |
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🐾 — Meet BettyBetty is a large adult female Pit Bull Terrier with a sleek black-and-white coat and a friendly, outgoing personality. She’s the kind of dog who enjoys being around people and is always ready to be part of the family. She’s described as good with adults and kids and has a welcoming attitude when meeting new people. With her moderate energy level, Betty enjoys a balance of activity and relaxation—making her a great fit for a home that wants both playtime and downtime. Betty does best in a home with a secure yard and a 6-foot fence, where she can feel comfortable and safe. She already has basic training and would benefit from continued guidance with an owner who understands her breed and can help her continue to thrive. 📍 Adoption InformationUpper Rio Grande Animal Society 👉 Contact the shelter directly to learn more about Betty or schedule a meet-and-greet. Quick Facts
Not ready to adopt? Sharing Betty’s story could help her find the perfect home. |
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The San Luis Valley will welcome gardeners and farmers for the 16th Annual Seed Exchange on April 18 and 19, 2026, at Joyful Journey Hot Springs Spa in Moffat, Colorado.
This vibrant gathering invites the community to share and collect regionally adapted seeds, fostering stronger, more diverse gardens.
Everyone is encouraged to bring seeds to exchange, explore new varieties, and connect with local growers.
Admission is free, with donations supporting school greenhouse and garden initiatives throughout the valley.
Generous sponsors and grantors power the Seed Exchange and Speaker Series, helping sustain this beloved tradition.
Sponsorships are welcomed for businesses and individuals wishing to invest in the region’s future.
Details and participation information can be found on the SLV Seed Exchange website. Read More... |
Interesting Facts |
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Backyard Beer Brats, Done Right |
Some meals just hit different, especially when they’re simple, hearty, and cooked right at home. This one takes a classic idea and gives it a backyard twist that’s hard to beat.
These beer brats start low and slow in a cast iron skillet with sliced onions, garlic, stone-ground mustard, and a good beer. As everything simmers together, the onions soften and soak up all that flavor while the brats cook gently, staying juicy the whole time.
Once they’re ready, the brats get finished on the grill for that perfect snap and a little bit of char. Served on a toasted bun and topped with those rich, beer-soaked onions, they bring just the right balance of flavor without needing much else.
On the side, crispy smashed tater tots add the crunch, while a portion of warm sauerkraut brings that tangy bite that ties the whole plate together. It’s a simple combination, but every part plays its role.
You can keep it classic and serve the kraut on the side, or pile it onto the brat if you like a little extra kick. Either way, it’s the kind of meal that feels just right at the end of the day. Quick How-To
Tip: For a San Luis Valley twist, add roasted green chiles to the brat pan or sprinkle them over the tots. |
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The San Luis Valley Beat is growing, and we’d love your help in making it a true reflection of our community. If you have something happening in your town or organization, you can now submit it to be featured in an upcoming issue. We’re currently accepting:
Event listings are always free, and we review submissions regularly for upcoming newsletters. Have something to share? Send it to: |
💡 Answer to Trivia Question: Two — Rio Grande County and Saguache County |