The Festival of Trees and Wreaths kicked off the holiday season in Durango and Cortez as a fundraiser for Community Connections and Our Own Lives. By Sadie Smith. This story is sponsored by FLC Center for Innovation and Kroegers Ace Hardware.
This holiday season, the artists of The ArtRoom Collective at the welcoming halls of The Smiley are turning compassion into action. With many of our community members facing uncertainty and hardship, the Collective is reminding us how deeply connected we are—and how art can be a powerful force for hope. 18 local artists have contributed over $7343.00 works to a silent auction, donating 100% of the proceeds to a charity of their choice. Local nonprofit beneficiaries include Manna, Companeros, Durango food bank, Cancer Community of the Southwest Visitors are invited to follow the red balloons placed throughout the ArtRoom and nearby hallways—symbols of shared purpose and the belief that creativity can spark positive change. Bidding is open now through December 12 at 5pm, offering the community a chance not only to collect meaningful artwork but also to strengthen belonging right here at home. To bid, simply stop by the ArtRoom to write in your bid before the event ends, or reach out to artists directly via their red name links to connect through social media or their websites. Your participation supports local nonprofits and highlights what makes this community shine: generosity, connection, and art with purpose. By Sadie Smith & Paige Sparks. This story is sponsored by Sky Ute Casino Resort and Dunkin' Donuts.
The La Plata Electric Association announced that it will not increase rates for members in 2026 despite rising utility costs. The Community Foundation serving Southwest Colorado opened applications for the Meaningful Opportunity through Learning and Advancement Scholarship. And Fort Lewis College Community Concert Hall’s holiday lineup includes performances by Santa Barbara’s State Street Ballet and the Bar-D Wranglers. Watch to learn more! By Rachel Hughes. This story is sponsored by Serious Texas Bar-B-Q and Happy Pappy's Pizza & Wings.
Ignacio Community Library will host a Christmas craft competition. Sky Ute Casino Resort’s Shine Together Arts and Crafts Fair returns in December. And election results are in! The Ignacio School District No. 11Jt Board of Directors remains unchanged. Watch for details! By Rachel Hughes. This story is sponsored by FASTSIGNS Durango and Payroll Department.
The Durango Creative District recently hosted Super-Powered Sovereignty, a vibrant and empowering exhibition celebrating Indigenous comic book art. Curated by Andrea Descheenie, the event brought together a diverse group of Indigenous artists whose work explores identity, sovereignty, and cultural resilience through dynamic visual storytelling. Attendees experienced an array of original illustrations, prints, and comic panels featuring Indigenous superheroes, protectors, and complex characters that reimagine representation in the comic world. The opening reception invited the community to engage directly with the artists’ creative visions, reflect on the intersections of heritage and modern art, and honor Indigenous voices during Native American Heritage Month. By Paige Sparks. This story is sponsored by San Juan Regional Medical Center SJRMC and Tafoya, Barrett & Associates.
