I am thankful every day, but November is a good time to express it. The generosity of great local entertainers to help me with the Hosanna Hoedown must be noted. This event had its start with Cortez United Methodist Church Pastor Skip Strickland over 10 years ago as a jam session for bluegrass, old time, country and gospel music. With Pastor Skips departure the event has evolved into a showcase for fine local performers pleasing to an older audience. In 2011 Hosanna Hoedown was on the road with every fifth Sunday taking us to a new location. Thanks and admiration to: Ellis Miller, Rita Pulcher, Donny Johnson and Dawni Jo Johnson, Linley Leonard and the American Legion Honor Guard, Slim McWilliams, Lynne Belle Lewis, Abe and Alice Ann Saunders, Rick and Kathy Ryan, Suzannes School of Dance, Marvin and Paula Graves, Don Kirk, Bob Nawrocki and my friends in our band, the Epiclectics. I am thankful to the Cortez United Methodist Church, American Legion Ute Mountain Post 75, Mancos Opera House/VFW Post 5231 and Vista Grande Inn for the opportunity to present this music and offer fellowship within their walls.
Our seniors deserve to hear live music they enjoy. Our sponsors, The Valley Inn and Vista Grande Inn, appreciate what this event is doing for the community. These Montezuma County skilled nursing facilities support us through advertising and desserts prepared in their kitchens to provide us a dessert social after each show.
In 2012, five months include a fifth Sunday. We are on the road to Durango, Dove Creek, Mancos and Cortez. Our Mancos Days Hosanna Hoedown in July 2011 proved successful to create a fundraising opportunity. Our ice cream social brought more than $500 to the Alzheimers Association. As a result, all 2012 shows will include dessert social proceeds going to good causes. The admission is always free.
I am blessed to live in an area with such great talent and giving hearts. Thank you all for helping me to keep the Hosanna Hoedown as something our area seniors (and music lovers of all ages) look forward to every 5th Sunday!
Linda J. Carter
Cortez