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The 5th annual Men in Heels Fundraiser will take place on September 10th at the La Plata County Fairgrounds, supporting the Women’s Resource Center with a fun, competitive event. The Colorado Department of Transportation has begun safety improvements on Cascade Curve on U.S. Highway 550, involving the installation of a permanent concrete barrier to reduce accidents. Durango Parks and Recreation seeks community feedback on two proposed design concepts for Ryler Park, with plans to begin construction later this fall. And be Bear Smart this fall by securing trash and removing bear attractants as bear activity increases during the fall season. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by FLC Center for Innovation and Durango Gelato, Coffee & Tea.

Wildfires are an increasing threat, but with the right precautions, homeowners can significantly reduce their risk. Through the Firewise program, local communities are learning to create defensible spaces around their homes, which can be the difference between survival and disaster. By clearing flammable debris and following expert guidelines, residents can not only protect their properties but also assist firefighters in their efforts. Small actions, such as maintaining a 6 to 10-foot safety zone, can have a huge impact on preventing the loss of homes during wildfires. By Sadie Smith. This story is sponsored by Denise Elliott, State Farm Agent and Happy Pappy's Pizza & Wings.

The second annual Bike Prom celebrates cycling subculture at The Powerhouse on September 14th. The event features a bike-parade, bike games, music and more. Participants are encouraged to find silly, funky costumes harkening back to high school prom. The event is billed as “the low budget prom you always loved and never knew you needed.” By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Tafoya, Barrett & Associates and FLC Center for Innovation.

The Colorado Secretary of State is hosting a contest for a new “I Voted” sticker for this year’s elections, open to all enrolled high school and homeschooled students between ages 13-18. The La Plata Economic Development Alliance has announced the awards for the third round of the Catalyst Housing Funds, with two awardees from Durango and one from Bayfield. The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles encourages Colorado residents to participate in the KOSI 101.1 Teddy Bear Patrol by donating new stuffed animals at participating DMV offices through Wednesday, September 4th, and the Wibit Aqua Park will close for the season on September 2nd. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by Sky Ute Casino and FASTSIGNS Durango.

Christopher Blevins, Riley Amos and Savilia Blunk returned to Durango following their Olympic mountain bike races. Durango’s Team USA members enjoyed a competitive respite following the Paris Games. Amos and Blevins joined group rides hosted by Durango Devo, a development program they participated in as kids. A formal celebration of all three Durango Olympians is likely to be held later in the year, after the cyclists’ competitive seasons end. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Serious Texas BBQ and Freddies Frozen Custard & Steakburgers.

Durango School District 9-R has released a new plan to keep traffic congestion at Durango High School down during pick-up and drop-off. Durango High School and Miller Middle School students will have a staggered start, and separate zones for families to drop off. San Juan Mountain Association is offering an after-school program on Thursdays in September, October, and November. The Durango Education Foundation will host its Back to School Resource Fair on August 27th to help connect parents and students, and the Durango Derby announced the return of a cash prize and a new race for the 2nd annual Labor Day event. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by San Juan Regional Medical Center and M&R Plumbing.

The Northwest New Mexico Arts Council is one of 100 nonprofits nationwide to earn a grant from Lowe’s Hometowns to invest in the community. The money is being used to develop the outdoor space at the newly opened historic Leanor Hotel. The space will be used to teach underserved teens service industry skills. The Leanor Hotel aims to be a safe gathering space for teens across the county. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Home2Suites and Traegers bar.

The Durango Public Library has revised its materials review policy in response to new state guidelines that allow residents to challenge library materials. The policy mandates that challengers' names remain public and limits challenges to once every two years. This change comes amid a nationwide increase in challenges to library materials, with Colorado seeing 142 attempts to restrict access in 2023 alone. Library officials emphasize that the updates aim to enhance transparency and maintain access to diverse resources for the community. By Sadie Smith. This story is sponsored by Payroll Department and Dunkin’ Donuts.

Durango School District 9-R heads back August 20th - make sure that your student(s) are ready with the “Back to School Hub,” with registration, bus, and after-school program information. August is chock-full of events for the La Plata County Humane Society, from the Woofs and Whiskers photo contest to the Buds and Brews fundraising event. And the City of Durango’s Turf Grass Replacement Program has expanded to offer rebates to residents and commercial accounts interested in exchanging water-intensive landscaping for alternatives. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by The Payroll Department and Dunkin' Donuts.

The Ignacio Community Library serves as a welcoming public space for the Town of Ignacio, focused on connecting people through learning and personal growth. With a diverse range of programs, including sewing workshops, book clubs, and a Repair Cafe, there is something for everyone. Exciting upcoming events feature a hands-on green chili sauce class and a virtual reality experience that will transport participants on a tour of Italy. Additionally, the library plays a crucial role in supporting residents by offering a free monthly legal clinic with a veterans officer, ensuring that everyone has access to important resources and assistance. By Sadie Smith. This story is sponsored by Payroll Department and Dunkin’ Donuts.

There is still two months left to experience the Sherlock Holmes exhibit at the Farmington Museum at Gateway Park. "Sherlock Holmes: The Exhibition" features original manuscripts, period artifacts, and crime-solving activities inspired by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's legendary experiences and manuscripts. From exploring Victorian London to unraveling mysteries, visitors can step into Holmes' world and discover the mysteries for themselves. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Ace Hardware of Farmington and Distill Beer Wine Spirits.

Ignacio School District returns to school on August 19th, with school sports starting August 12th. Take advantage of back-to-school events and resources at the Ignacio Community Library, including online resources for teachers and homeschooling parents. This fall will also see a return of after-school events at the library. The Ignacio Chile Fest returns for the eighth year at the end of the month, and the La Plata County Humane Society is offering free spay/neuter for pets from select zip codes. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by Fort Lewis College Center for Innovation and Serious Texas BBQ.

The Old Fort at Hesprus is offering a one-day Farmer Training Convergence geared towards individuals in Southwest Colorado. Fort Lewis College is looking for local businesses to sign up for a fall job fair, an opportunity for first-year students to meet and network with local businesses. Registration for the La Plata County Economic Development Alliance Summit is now open. And the county is looking for feedback on the La Plata County Fairgrounds and Events Center master plan. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by Denise Elliott, State Farm Agent and Kroegers Ace Hardware.

While Mesa Verde National Park is celebrated for its historic cliff dwellings and archaeological sites, many may be surprised to learn about the presence of wild horses roaming the park. The National Mustang Association of Colorado (NMACO) has undertaken the Mesa Verde Project to relocate these horses, aiming to preserve the park's cultural heritage. This effort is driven by the park's role, which excludes horse management responsibilities under the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act of 1971, placing such duties with the Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service. By Sadie Smith. This story is sponsored by Big O Tires and Blondie's Trophy Room.

Nearly a decade after the Gold King Mine spill turned the Animas River orange, cleanup efforts continue in Silverton’s Superfund sites. The Bonita Peak Mining District, a Superfund site encompassing multiple mines, remains a focus of extensive remediation. Trout Unlimited, in partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency, supports this effort through a Community Advisory Group (CAG) made up of local experts. The CAG is crucial in guiding the cleanup process and shaping long-term restoration goals, aiming to improve water quality and support a thriving fish population in the Animas River. By Sadie Smith. This story is sponsored by Tafoya Barrett & Associates and Sky Ute Casino Resort.

Miller Middle School students will begin the school year in temporary locations due to fire damage to the new building, which has delayed its opening. The San Juan Brewfest returns for its fourth year on August 23-24, featuring over 100 types of beer and cider from more than 40 breweries. Safely enjoy the event with discounted designated driver tickets and various transportation options to avoid drinking and driving. The 26th annual Boggy Draw Beat Down bike race takes place on August 3rd, offering various race categories including a new one for participants over 65 and a family-friendly ride. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by Happy Pappy's Pizza & Wings and FASTSIGNS Durango.

La Plata County's Road & Bridge Department spans vast distances across Marvel, Durango, Ignacio, and Bayfield, ensuring crucial infrastructure remains safe and reliable throughout the year. Managing over 650 miles of roads, including both gravel and asphalt, their efforts encompass everything from grading and snowplowing to long-term planning based on traffic and community needs. Despite budget limitations, their meticulous planning, informed by traffic patterns and community needs, ensures essential routes remain operational and safe. By Sadie Smith. This story is sponsored by Alpine Bank.

La Plata County's Road & Bridge Department spans vast distances across Marvel, Durango, Ignacio, and Bayfield, ensuring crucial infrastructure remains safe and reliable throughout the year. Managing over 650 miles of roads, including both gravel and asphalt, their efforts encompass everything from grading and snowplowing to long-term planning based on traffic and community needs. Despite budget limitations, their meticulous planning, informed by traffic patterns and community needs, ensures essential routes remain operational and safe. By Sadie Smith . This story is sponsored by Alpine Bank.

Six new outdoor pickleball courts are open at Schneider Park in Durango. The courts are part of a handful of improvements to the park, including new bike racks, play area, lighting, and landscaping. Building the outdoor courts reflects the growing rise in popularity of the sport, across all ages, and the location makes it viable for visitors and locals alike to pick up a paddle. The courts are open from 7:30 a.m. until sunset and can be reserved for two dollars per hour on the City of Durango’s website. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Kroegers Ace Hardware and Dunkin Donuts.

On Saturday, July 14th, the U.S. Highway 550 Grandview Interchange opened with traffic shifting from Farmington Hill to the Bridge to the Future. Colorado Department of Transportation warns drivers to add extra time as everyone gets accustomed to the new traffic flow. Registration for all Durango School District 9-R fall sports is open - the deadline for registration is August 2nd. The City of Durango has announced a change to its open records request policy to reflect the increase in requests. And a GoFundMe has been set up to support the Hurst family of Mancos after a fatal car accident earlier this month. By Hannah Robertson. This story is sponsored by The Payroll Department and Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers.