The annual meeting of Southwestern Colorado Livestock Association will be held at the Cortez Elks Lodge on Saturday, Feb. 14.

The morning session begins at 9 a.m. with reports from county and state officials. U.S. Rep. Scott Tipton will discuss legislation of concern to the members. Representatives from Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Colorado Parks and Wildlife and other organizations will provide updates on agriculture and community issues.

Members and guests will enjoy a potluck dinner at noon compliments of Southwestern Cowbelles. The business meeting will begin at 1 p.m. with regular business and election of directors.

Evening festivities start at 7 p.m. with a steak dinner and all the trimmings. The highlight of the evening is the announcement of the Stockman of the Year and Cowbelle of the Year. Dance music will be provided featuring the band Vanishing Breed. Dinner and dance tickets can be purchased from any member of the board of directors. Tickets cost $30 each.

A silent auction will be held, with proceeds awarded as scholarships to local youth. To date, Southwestern Colorado Livestock Association has awarded over $73,000 in scholarships to assist area youth achieve their educational goals.

For more information about the scholarship fund, or, if you would like to make a contribution to the Silent Auction to help students in Montezuma and Dolores Counties, call Bill or Peggy Blackmer at 882-4270.