U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet (D-Colorado) urged Southwest Colorado residents not to give up hope for democracy but to continue fighting for their rights as citizens living in a democratic republic. Bennet, a three-term senator, fielded audience questions about health care, tariffs, and democracy's perceived erosion during a town hall meeting on Aug. 5 at Fort Lewis College. Get involved. Register to Vote HERE . . . By Deborah Uroda. This story is sponsored by Durango Gelato, Coffee and Tea and M&R Plumbing.

A new Colorado bill honors the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe and the Southern Ute Indian Tribe’s connection to ancestral land. San Juan Brewfest returns Friday and Saturday, August 22nd and 23rd. Want to showcase your art at the library? Applications just opened! And an acorn shortage causes bears to seek food elsewhere. By Rachel Hughes. This story is sponsored by FASTSIGNS Durango and Dunkin’ Donuts.

The La Plata County Fairgrounds master plan is a long-term plan that will be funded in phases using Conservation Trust Fund dollars, which the county receives annually from Colorado Lottery proceeds. The funds can be used only for acquiring, developing and maintaining new conservation sites or for capital improvements for recreational facilities on county-owned sites. Conservation Trust Fund dollars cannot be used for any other county projects or expenditures. By Sadie Smith. This story is sponsored by Sky Ute Casino and FASTSIGNS Durango.

Students get real world experience planning, designing and building water wells, bridges and solar energy systems to underdeveloped communities. By Connor Shreve. This story is sponsored by Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers and Fastsigns Durango.

Learn how to prepare for fire evacuations. Fort Lewis College seeks swag to share the school’s history. And World Atlas named a Four Corners town one of the most overlooked destinations in Colorado. Watch for more! By Rachel Hughes. This story is sponsored by Kroegers Ace Hardware and Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers.