This June, the Local First Foundation will celebrate everything local at its Be Local Bash, bringing together independent businesses, nonprofits, community leaders and residents who help make La Plata County a thriving place to live.
Ahead of the event, Local First is encouraging community members to cast their votes for this year’s Local First Indie Awards, which recognize the businesses, organizations, and local champions making a meaningful impact across the region.
The Indie Award winners will be announced during the Be Local Bash on Tuesday, June 9, at the Rochester Hotel. Awards will be presented in categories including Local Legend, Rising Star, Community Collaborator, Sustainability Champion (a new category this year) and Localist of the Year.
Last year’s winners reflected the creativity, collaboration and community spirit that define La Plata County’s local economy. Columbine Landscapes received the Local Legend Award, Durango Sustainable Goods earned the Rising Star Award, 4CORE was recognized with the Community Collaborator Award, and Shaheen Hangvaal was named Localist of the Year. This year’s awards will once again highlight the businesses, organizations and individuals helping strengthen the local community and economy through their work and leadership.
The Be Local Bash is an event open to everyone who loves supporting local. If you own your own business, shop at locally owned stores, work at a local nonprofit, dine at independent restaurants, buy groceries from local markets or visit the farmers market, this event is for you.
The Be Local Bash serves as a celebration of the community members whose everyday choices help strengthen the local economy. Every purchase made at a local independent business helps keep dollars circulating locally, supports jobs and contributes to the character and vibrancy that make La Plata County distinct.
This year’s Be Local Bash will include community networking, catering from Graze Colorado and local beverages, along with a keynote presentation from John Shaw of Shaw Solar on the company’s journey toward becoming an employee-owned business and the importance of investing in local ownership.
The Be Local Bash offers an opportunity to celebrate our shared commitment to localism while connecting with fellow community members, local entrepreneurs and nonprofit leaders who are helping shape the future of our region.
Community members can vote for the Indie Awards and purchase tickets for the event at www.local-first.org/be-local-bash.
Ashley Christie is the executive director of Local First.
