Up, up, and away! The Durango-La Plata County Airport is one of eight regional and municipal airports in Colorado that received part of a $100 million grant from the Federal Aviation Administration. The funding will directly cover Phase 1B of the Terminal Expansion Project. Durango School District 9-R received a grant from the Carton Council, part of ongoing efforts across the district to reduce food waste. All school cafeterias will now be equipped with the tools to divert food waste and recyclable materials from landfills. The Colorado Department of Transportation, in cooperation with the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and the City of Durango, started work to improve the US 550, Main Avenue, and 14th Street intersection. Work includes lane realignment, signal replacement, pedestrian safety improvements, and repaving. Expect significant traffic impacts until work is completed in November. By Hannah Robertson.

Watch this story at www.durangolocal.news/newsstories/grants-here-there-everywhere

This story is sponsored by Payroll Department and Tafoya Barrett & Associates.

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Do you ever find yourself thinking “river thoughts” like Edward Abbey? A new mural along the River Trail encourages just that. Located just south of Santa Rita Park, local artist Mariah Kaminsky painted a tribute to the late author, incorporating the Desert Solitaire quote, “I chose to listen to the river for a while, thinking river thoughts, before joining the night and stars.” The mural serves as a reminder to slow down and appreciate the beauty of the Southwest. By Sadie Smith.

Watch this story at www.durangolocal.news/newsstories/local-artist-honors-edward-abbey-with-captivating-mural-on-animas-river-trail

This story is sponsored by Sky Ute Casino Resort and Denise Elliott, State Farm Agent.

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The 2024 Aztec Indigenous Arts Festival features local Indigenous artists, performers and culture on Saturday, September 14. This version of the festival features the largest variety of entertainment in its history. With headlining acts scheduled throughout the day, the 2024 Aztec Ruins Cultural Indigenous Arts Festival plans to move attendees in all manner of motif. Featured performers include renowned hoop dancer JaiP’o Harvier, musician Levi Platero and Diné storyteller Sunny Dooley, among others. By Connor Shreve.

Watch this story at www.durangolocal.news/newsstories/indigenous-arts-festival-returns

This story is sponsored by Distill Beer Wine Spirits and M&R Plumbing.

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The Ignacio Community Library and Ignacio High School Science are co-hosting an International Observe the Moon Night event on September 14th at Shoshone Park, offering a variety of activities including rocket launching and moon observation. Southern Ute Shared Services announced that the broadband project, which aims to improve digital infrastructure in the area, is progressing with Phase Two, offering no-cost installation for residents. Ignacio School District has compiled various resources for parents and students, including apps for communication, bus information, and calendars to stay updated on events and athletics. By Hannah Robertson.

Watch this story at www.durangolocal.news/newsstories/international-observe-the-moon-night

This story is sponsored by Happy Pappy's Pizza & Wings and Crystal Mart.

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Miller Middle School students and staff will transition to their new campus on September 24th, after starting the school year at Durango High School. The Durango Kennel Club is offering a rattlesnake avoidance clinic for dogs on September 14th, teaching them to avoid snakes through scent, sound, and sight training. Our Own Lives is hosting open houses this month to help local businesses create inclusive employment opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities on September 19th and 24th. By Hannah Robertson.

Watch this story at www.durangolocal.news/newsstories/project-angel-flight-takes-off

This story is sponsored by Dunkin Donuts and Kroegers Ace Hardware.

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School is officially back in session! On Tuesday, Aug. 27, the Durango Education Foundation held its annual Back to School Fair at the La Plata County Fairgrounds’ Exhibition Office. The event, sponsored by Central Bank, offered families a chance to explore resources for a successful school year, with interpretation services available for non-English speakers. The fair features school representatives ready to discuss registration, upcoming events, and other school-related updates directly with attendees. By Sadie Smith.

Watch this story at www.durangolocal.news/newsstories/back-to-school-fair-brings-community-together-for-successful-year

This story is sponsored by Alpine Bank.

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Fort Lewis College has partnered with the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus to establish a new nursing training facility on its campus. U.S. Sen. John Hickenlooper toured the facility on Aug. 29, highlighting the importance of local educational opportunities in retaining healthcare professionals in rural areas. $1.3 million in federal funding will support the CU Nursing Fort Lewis College Collaborative, which aims to train students in community-based, rural, and Indigenous healthcare perspectives. By keeping nursing education local, the program seeks to address the challenges smaller communities face in recruiting healthcare workers and enhance the quality of care available in southwest Colorado. By Sadie Smith.

Watch this story at www.durangolocal.news/newsstories/senator-hickenlooper-tours-new-nursing-training-facility-at-fort-lewis-college

This story is sponsored by Tafoya Barrett & Associates and M&R Plumbing.

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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.

Watch this story at www.durangolocal.news/newsstories/time-to-strut-your-stuff

This story is sponsored by FLC Center for Innovation and Durango Gelato, Coffee & Tea.

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