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. This story is sponsored by Alpine Bank.

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

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.