Durango Local News Archives

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Community Connections Announces Key Milestones

Community Connections is dividing its community-centered work with Our Own Lives to continue its long-standing support as part of an organizational redesign process. La Plata Electric Association is opening applications for the new Sunnyside Community Solar Program on July 1st, offering solar options for individuals and businesses who might not otherwise be able to access solar power. And the City of Durango has launched its Economic Development Incentive Program for local businesses. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by Dunkin’ Donuts and Tafoya Barrett & Associates.

July 16, 2024

Local Apparel Company Develops Groundbreaking Textile Technolog

Pagosa Springs-based company Voormi embodies Southwest Colorado. Its equipment is developed in a local warehouse, then tested in the San Juan Mountains. With a background in guiding, co-founder Dustin English wanted to get more performance out of less gear, so he decided to try to change the textile industry. Voormi weaves locally developed technology into traditional textiles to create some of the most versatile gear available. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by The Payroll Department and Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers.

July 16, 2024

Maximize Water Use with Rain Garden

With hot, dry conditions forecast in the months ahead, utilizing water efficient practices in your yard can provide major benefits. Though the Southwest climate makes saving water difficult, a rain garden can help lower your water bills, reduce water waste and mitigate flooding. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Kroegers Ace Hardware and Serious Texas BBQ.

July 16, 2024

Roadwork Ahead on US Highway 160

The Colorado Department of Transportation began chip seal operations this week on U.S. Highway 160, affecting approximately 36 miles between Durango and Mancos and Bayfield and Pagosa Springs. Table to Farm Compost now offers a bi-weekly pick-up option for curbside compost collection in response to customer feedback. The La Plata County Health Department warns residents about the risks of rabies from bats, with guidance on safely capturing them for testing. Additionally, the gazebo at Rotary Park is undergoing roof repairs and is expected to be completed by June 28th. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by The Payroll Department and Dunkin’ Donuts.

June 19, 2024

Ute Mountain Roundup Rodeo

The Ute Mountain Roundup Rodeo celebrated its 94th year with flair and excitement. From honoring First Responders and Military personnel to showcasing the thrill of rodeo competition, this event brought together the community for a weekend of entertainment and camaraderie. With over $80,000 in payouts and strong community support, this year's rodeo proved to be one of the most memorable yet. By Sadie Smith. This story is sponsored by Big O Tires and Hospice of Montezuma

June 18, 2024

Community Insights: LPC Foster Care

La Plata County's Foster Care program continues to serve our community's children, guiding families through a thorough certification process to ensure each child finds a nurturing environment. Despite emotional challenges, foster families provide vital care. Initiatives like Foster Friendly Durango unite businesses and communities to offer essential support. By Sadie Smith. This story is sponsored by Alpine Bank.

June 19, 2024

Summer Safety Notices

Summer is here, and La Plata County is asking residents to notify 911 dispatchers via a new form when planning a controlled burn. Make sure that you’ve signed up for CodeRED notifications, and if you have signed up, make sure your information is up to date if you’ve recently moved or changed your number. After a mountain lion spotting in early May, the Southern Ute Wildlife Division has tips and tricks for keeping safe and reducing the chance of encountering these elusive but dangerous animals. And the Ignacio Community Library’s Summer Reading Program is off to a strong start, and it’s not too late to sign up! By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by Dunkin' Donuts and Serious Texas BBQ.

June 14, 2024

Studying Snow in the Summer

The Mountain Studies Institute and Wright-Ingraham Institute are partnering to research the impact of dust on snow, exploring how dust accelerates snowmelt and exacerbates drought conditions. The first 72 units of affordable housing at The Residences at Durango are on track to be completed by year-end, transforming the former Best Western Inn into a mix of renovated studios and apartments. Additionally, the Durango Public Library’s summer reading program, which began on May 31st, offers reading incentives for all age groups, with the program running through August 1st. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by Denise Elliott, State Farm Agent and Sky Ute Casino.

June 17, 2024

9-R School District Opens New Admin Building

Nearly three years after the historic administrative building was sold to the city of Durango, Durango School District 9-R has opened a new headquarters. 46 district employees work out of the new, smaller building, located in Bodo Park. Departments in the new facility include the superintendent, executive team, communications, curriculum and instruction, student support services, human resources, finance, safety and security, and the Durango Education Foundation. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Tafoya, Barrett & Associates and Happy Pappy’s Pizza & Wings.

June 17, 2024

Philosophy Professor Justin McBrayer wins Fulbright Award

Fort Lewis College Professor Justin McBrayer has won a prestigious award from the Fulbright Program. McBrayer will spend a term in Italy both conducting research and teaching at the University of Genoa, Italy in 2025. This is the second time McBrayer has received an award from the prestigious Fulbright Program, which is “devoted to increasing mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries.” McBrayer said the award will allow him to continue exploring the issue of misinformation and fake news. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Kroegers Ace Hardware and Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers.

June 7, 2024

Clean Summer Fun

Purgatory Mountain Resort looks to kick off the summer season on June 15th, with the Sunset Shred offering extra hours for mountain biking in July. Clean Commute Day is back on Wednesday, June 25th with a day full of activities. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has opened the second round of Clean Fleet and Technology grants to incentivize the purchase of more environmentally friendly fleet vehicles. And the Colorado Department of Transportation has announced that the Grandview Bridge switch will be postponed to the middle of the month due to delays in lighting at the Grandview Roundabout. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by Payroll Department and Sky Ute Casino.

June 7, 2024

Community Insights: LPCPHD

The La Plata County Public Health Department’s Harm Reduction program is actively addressing the opioid crisis by providing life-saving tools, such as Narcan and fentanyl testing strips, and creating a non-judgmental space for people struggling with substance use. The program offers essential support, including sterile supplies and education, to reduce infectious diseases and overdose deaths. The Harm Reduction program highlights the importance of meeting people where they are in their substance use journey and emphasizes the protective Good Samaritan law, which encourages people to seek help without fear of criminal charges. The program's efforts significantly increase the likelihood of individuals accessing treatment and reducing substance use. By Sadie Smith. This story is sponsored by Alpine Bank.

June 4, 2024

Durango High School Earns Top Ranking

Durango High School has been ranked in the top 10% of public high schools in the country. The U.S. News & World Reports methodology focuses on six factors: college readiness, reading, math and science proficiency, reading, math and science performance, underserved student performance, college curriculum breadth, and graduation rates. The rankings also put D.H.S. in the top 9% of Colorado public high schools. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Tafoya, Barrett & Associates and Freddies Frozen Custard & Steakburgers.

June 1, 2024

Keeping Pets Safe this Summer

If you're hiking with your dog this summer, consider the Durango Kennel Club's rattlesnake avoidance clinic this weekend to keep your pet safe. The City of Durango has launched an online questionnaire for the preliminary design of the 600 and 700 blocks of Main Street, with feedback influencing the project's priorities and a chance to win gift cards. Additionally, the Summer Food Program, starting June 3rd, will provide meals to children at Fanto Park, Monday through Thursday, until August 1st. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by Happy Pappy’s Pizza & Wings and Serious Texas B-B-Q.

May 30, 2024

La Plata County Humane Society 

Celebrate La Plata County Humane Society's annual Adopt-A-Thon, the largest pet adoption event of the year! From June 7th to 8th, explore reduced prices, local vendors, and store-wide sales at the Humane Society Thrift Store. With a goal of finding homes for 50 pets, this event offers a straightforward adoption process, ensuring all animals are vaccinated and microchipped. Supported by sponsors and vendors, this event commemorates 20 years of community support, providing an opportunity to give deserving pets a loving home. By Sadie Smith. This story is sponsored by Dunkin’ Donuts and Payroll Department.

May 24, 2024

Blue Star Moms Honor Fallen Veterans with Flag Display

The Iron Horse Bicycle Classic is this Saturday, May 25th. The Colorado Department of Transportation would like to remind drivers that US Highway 550 will be closed to vehicles between Purgatory Ski Resort and Silverton during the event. The second annual Healing Field, put on by the Blue Star Moms of Durango, will be on display for Memorial Weekend at Santa Rita Park in honor of fallen veterans. The Boggy Draw trail system is open to the public again after conducting a prescribed fire across over one thousand acres to mitigate future fire risks. The Durango Chamber of Commerce is asking for volunteers this Friday, May 24th, from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. to help with its 21st annual Downtown Clean Day. By Rachel Hughes. This story is sponsored by Sky Ute Casino and Kroegers Ace Hardware.

May 22, 2024

Montezuma Rising Music Festival to Feature Local Non-Profits

Montezuma Rising is a community music festival in the heart of downtown Mancos featuring the bands Desert Child, Ora, Desiderata, Le Trebuchet, Proud Mother and Influsense. The El Rio Cantina will host the after-party featuring DJ BADGOAT. The fest will also spotlight local non-profits and community organizations doing great things for Montezuma County, and is spearheaded by Fenceline Cider. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by TruWest Auto and Blondie’s Trophy Room.

May 22, 2024

Community Insights: Colorado Department of Transportation

The completion of the overpass represents a significant milestone for the community, symbolizing its transformation from the 'Bridge to Nowhere' to the 'Bridge to the Future.' The recent event hosted by the Colorado Department of Transportation offered the public an early glimpse of the new highway and bridge, showcasing advancements in safety and wildlife protection. As traffic prepares to shift to the new interchange, CDOT project crews are ready to initiate the reclamation of US Highway 550 along Farmington Hill. With optimism for the project's future success, CDOT anticipates a safer and more reliable transportation route for the region, marking a promising chapter for the community. By Sadie Smith. This story is sponsored by Alpine Bank.

May 22, 2024

Smithsonian Exhibit Open in Ignacio

“Crossroads: Change in Rural America” a Colorado humanities tour, runs through June 2nd at the Ignacio Community Library. The exhibit features local events designed to compliment the Smithsonian exhibition, which focuses on the importance of rural culture in southwest Colorado. Topics of exploration include environment, community and Ignacio’s timeline. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Freddies Frozen Custard & Steakburgers and Serious Texas Bar-B-Q.

May 16, 2024

Free Summer Transit Returns

Durango Transit and the City of Durango will once again offer free transit on all fixed routes and free parking along select streets in an effort to reduce traffic congestion and encourage public transit use. At a recent visit to the Southern Ute Indian Tribal Council, Senator Michael Bennet and Bureau of Reclamation Commissioner Touton announced $2.3 million in funding for the Pine River Indian Irrigation Project. Durango High School Troup 1096 received four nominations at the annual Bobby G High School Theatre Awards, including the Bobby G equivalent of an Oscar nod. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by Happy Pappy’s Pizza & Wings and The Payroll Department.

May 15, 2024

Celebrating Ignacio Student Achievements

Students from Ignacio School District 11-JT have received awards and recognition from Masonic awards to Skills USA placement to student-athletes signing for collegiate-level play. The Ignacio Community Library is offering a Garden to Kitchen event to teach you how to grow your own food. And on April 30th the new broadband network on the Southern Ute Reservation was activated. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by Dunkin' Donuts and The Payroll Department.

May 15, 2024

May is Motorcycle Awareness Month

May is motorcycle awareness month, and the Colorado Department of Transportation has a list of tips to keep both motorcyclists and drivers safe on the roads this summer. Nominations are now open for the Library Community Champion Award, celebrating the volunteer efforts that keep Durango Public Library running smoothly. And make sure to grab tickets for the 11th annual Gardens on Tour with the Durango Botanic Gardens. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by Kroegers Ace Hardware and Sky Ute Casino.

November 26, 2024

Community Insights: La Plata County

The La Plata County Office of Emergency Management conducted its annual emergency evacuation exercises, focusing on preparing businesses in Bodo Park for potential emergencies like fires. Participants engaged in immersive simulations to experience evacuation scenarios firsthand, emphasizing the importance of preparedness. While many have evacuation plans for their homes, the exercises highlighted the need for workplace evacuation plans. Strengthening communication between residents and local agencies remains a top priority, with CodeRED serving as an electronic emergency notification system for prompt dissemination of critical alerts. By Sadie Smith. This story is sponsored by Alpine Bank.

May 15, 2024

Mesa Verde Lavender Cultivates Culinary Lavender in Mancos

Katie Terrell Ramos started Mesa Verde Lavender in 2021 after falling in love with lavender and finding inspiration to start farming in Montezuma County. In 2023, Mesa Verde Lavender received a Field Work grant from the LOR Foundation to expand their fields and add drip irrigation for water conservation. Find Mesa Verde Lavender around the region at coffee shops, bakeries, and apothecaries. By Ilana Newman. This story is sponsored by Choice Building Supply and TruWest Auto.

May 15, 2024

Fort Lewis College Cycling Bound for National Championships

The USA Cycling Collegiate Road National Championships are being held in Albuquerque, New Mexico May 3rd-5th. The Fort Lewis College Skyhawks Cycling Team returns to the National Championships with defending road race National Champion Kellen Caldwell. FLC Cycling Director Ian Burnett says the Skyhawks have multiple racers who can win in both the road race and criterium. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Serious Texas BBQ and Happy Pappy’s Pizza & Wings.

May 15, 2024

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