The USA Cycling Collegiate Road National Championships are being held in Albuquerque, New Mexico May 3rd-5th. The Fort Lewis College Skyhawks Cycling Team returns to the National Championships with defending road race National Champion Kellen Caldwell. FLC Cycling Director Ian Burnett says the Skyhawks have multiple racers who can win in both the road race and criterium. By Connor Shreve.

Watch this story at www.durangolocal.news/newsstories/fort-lewis-college-cycling-bound-for-national-championships

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Lake Nighthorse will open for daily summer operations on May 10th. Prepare for delays around the entrance with planned construction improvements. Durango-La Plata County Airport will close part of the overflow parking lot for paving work this month, plan accordingly if looking to park for travel. The City of Durango E-bike rebate program is open for 2024 applications, and if you’ve ever wanted to be on the big screen, there is an open casting call for Kevin Costner’s latest movie Wednesday, May 15th. By Hannah Robertson.

Watch this story at www.durangolocal.news/newsstories/lake-nighthorse-to-open-for-daily-operations-may-10th

This story is sponsored by Tafoya Barrett & Associates and Freddy Frozen Custard & Steakburgers.

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The FY 2024-2025 Long Appropriations Bill in Colorado prioritizes funding for various areas, including a significant allocation towards universal preschool programs and early childhood services. While this allocation enhances access to early childhood education, there may be potential increased childcare costs for younger children due to rising labor expenses. However, the bill also includes positive implications, such as increased funding for the Colorado Department of Early Childhood and a pay raise for early childhood professionals through the Colorado Childcare Assistance Program. Overall, the budget reflects a commitment to improving early childhood education and childcare services in the state. By Sadie Smith.

Watch this story at www.durangolocal.news/newsstories/house-advances-budget-to-support-k-12-schools

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Colorado Humanities partnered with Museum on Main Street to bring the exhibition “Crossroads: Change in Rural America” to Ignacio starting April 29th. Explore the history of rural America in the 20th Century and how it relates to the community of Ignacio with the month-long exhibit. Free Ute Language classes are offered every Friday through the Southern Ute Education Department to tribal members and employees. The Ignacio Out and Equal Alliance will host the first QueerMunity conference this summer, and keep an eye out for its monthly book club. By Hannah Robertson.

Watch this story at www.durangolocal.news/newsstories/museum-on-main-street-coming-to-ignacio

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Nominations are now open for the Durango Education Foundation Outstanding Employee - make sure to nominate a teacher or staff member who has made a difference this year. Work on the reconstruction of North College Drive has begun - the summer-long project will update water and sewage systems and resurface the road. And San Juan Symphony has a summer line-up full of opportunities, from concerts to workshops and more. By Hannah Robertson.

Watch this story at www.durangolocal.news/newsstories/durango-education-foundation-awards-open

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The six-episode series chronicles how the craft brewing industry navigated the pandemic shutdowns. It revisits a series of virtual get-togethers that industry tastemakers attended to discuss issues related to the uncertainty of the era. The podcast was produced locally and features two Southwest Colorado brewing institutions, Ska Brewing and Dolores River Brewery. By Connor Shreve.

Watch this story at www.durangolocal.news/newsstories/new-podcast-features-local-breweries

This story is sponsored by Kroegers Ace Hardware and Sky Ute Casino.

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Amidst the COVID-19 aftermath, Medicaid unwinding poses a critical healthcare challenge. La Plata County Public Health aids residents in navigating this transition, ensuring equitable access to healthcare options. Despite an extension, misconceptions persist, potentially impacting millions nationwide. Through collaboration with the Department of Human Services, smooth transitions to alternative coverage options are facilitated, offering personalized assistance and translation services to all residents. By Sadie Smith.

Watch this story at www.durangolocal.news/newsstories/community-insights-la-plata-county-public-health-department

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Last year, the Durango Education Foundation funded STEM sets for all seven elementary schools in Durango School District 9-R Now every elementary student in the district can experience STEM through tasks such as coding, podcasts, digital novels, circuit building, and 3D print design. The modern curriculum helps students, collaborate, create and problem-solve. By Connor Shreve.

Watch this story at www.durangolocal.news/newsstories/durango-9r-school-district-embraces-technology-tools

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