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Editorials Letters to the Editor Editorial Cartoons King Cartoons Opinion Columns FOCUS 2021

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Our View: ‘Middle’ starter homes ‘lost’ in affordable housing debates

$200,000 to $250,000 range missed in strong opposition to SB23-213

DATE: May 14, 2023 | CATEGORY: Opinion

Our View: Time for local inpatient facility

It’s a common, heart-wrenching dilemma. Southwest residents are forced to look far away for inpatient substance use treatment. Stories of locals –Jessica Newby, Kelly DiGiacomo, Tate Reaves,...

DATE: May 12, 2023 | CATEGORY: Opinion

Our View: Spare screenwriters from gig economy

Signs from strikers on the Writers Guild of America’s picket lines say it all. It’s obvious where the sparkle magic comes from in creating films and award-winning series for U.S. and global ...

DATE: May 10, 2023 | CATEGORY: Opinion

Our View: ‘No’ on bylaw amendment

La Plata Electric Association members are being asked to approve a single proposed bylaw amendment that would better reflect preferences for communication, allow electronic ballots as a voti...

DATE: May 7, 2023 | CATEGORY: Opinion

Our View: Luschen for LPEA board District 4

For a District 4 seat on the La Plata Electric Association board, both candidates would add very different backgrounds and emphases. A lot goes on at LPEA for members to be able to flip the ...

DATE: May 7, 2023 | CATEGORY: Opinion

Our View: Parental rights can mean fewer rights for majority

One way to soften the blow of losing a job is to be invited to Florence, Italy, and feted by the director of a famous museum along with the mayor. Hope Carrasquilla, the former principal of ...

DATE: May 5, 2023 | CATEGORY: Opinion

Our View: Random shootings will test good Samaritan capacity

We admit, we’re a little jittery approaching strangers after a surge in recent, seemingly random shootings. In April, 16-year-old Ralph Yarl was shot twice after ringing the doorbell at the ...

DATE: May 3, 2023 | CATEGORY: Opinion

Our View: Patients in Southwest deserve billing solutions

Seniors, especially, need clear answers, better service

DATE: Apr 30, 2023 | CATEGORY: Opinion

Our View: Yes on pet rent bill but not for hotels

We’ve been watching the evolution of House Bill 1068 that would limit pet rent to 1% of monthly rent or $35 per month, whichever is greater, in addition to capping pet deposits to $300 on to...

DATE: Apr 28, 2023 | CATEGORY: Opinion

Our View: Thankful for a few more runs

Ready to work on that goggle tan? We’re delighted to hear that Purgatory Resort has extended its ski season, adding this weekend as a bonus. And it’s nice that weekday and Hesperus season pa...

DATE: Apr 28, 2023 | CATEGORY: Opinion

Our View: Editorial human-produced – not AI

In honor of National Poetry Month, letter writer Mick Souder of Durango asked artificial intelligence to write a poem, “AI In Charge,” published on Sunday in The Durango Herald and The Journ...

DATE: Apr 26, 2023 | CATEGORY: Editorials

Our View: Dominion deserved on-air apology

We’re sending much moral support to Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, charged with espionage in Russia, where his news gathering was criminalized. On Tuesday, watching Gershkovi...

DATE: Apr 23, 2023 | CATEGORY: Opinion

Videos & Photos

Photos: Funeral procession for Cortez Police Sgt. Michael MoranHundreds of law enforcement vehicles escort the body of Cortez Police Sgt. Michael MoranThe body of Cortez Police Department, Sgt. Michael Moran, is escorted on Wednesday, Dec., 6, 2023, in a procession of hundreds of law enforcement vehicles down Main Street to the Cortez Recreation Center for his funeral. Moran was fatally shot and killed in the line of duty this past Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)11722000People line Main Street for the funeral procession of Cortez Police Department, Sgt. Michael Moran, on Thursday, Dec., 30, 2023, in Cortez. Moran was fatally shot and killed in the line of duty this past Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)1148950The body of Cortez Police Department Sgt. Michael Moran is escorted on Wednesday, Dec., 6, 2023, in a procession down Main Street in Cortez. Moran was fatally shot and killed in the line of duty this past Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)9912000People line Main Street for the funeral procession of Cortez Police Department, Sgt. Michael Moran, on Thursday, Dec., 30, 2023, in Cortez. Moran was fatally shot and killed in the line of duty this past Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)14082000The funeral procession of Cortez Police Department, Sgt. Michael Moran, arrives at the Cortez Recreation Center on Wednesday, Dec., 6, 2023. Moran was fatally shot and killed in the line of duty this past Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)10922000A Colorado State Patrol trooper salutes as the body of Cortez Police Department, Sgt. Michael Moran, arrives at the Cortez Recreation Center on Wednesday, Dec., 6, 2023. Moran was fatally shot and killed in the line of duty this past Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)12761963Law enforcement makes their way to the Cortez Recreation Center on Wednesday, Dec., 6, 2023, for Cortez Police Department, Sgt. Michael Morans funeral. Moran was fatally shot and killed in the line of duty this past Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)1477950The funeral procession of Cortez Police Department, Sgt. Michael Moran, passes under a giant sized flag that the Cortez Fire Protection District placed on Wednesday, Dec., 6, 2023, in Cortez. Moran was fatally shot and killed in the line of duty this past Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)13332000People line Main Street for the funeral procession of Cortez Police Department, Sgt. Michael Moran, on Thursday, Dec., 30, 2023, in Cortez. Moran was fatally shot and killed in the line of duty this past Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)14832000The funeral procession of Cortez Police Department Sgt. Michael Moran passes under a giant sized flag that the Cortez Fire Protection District placed on Wednesday, Dec., 6, 2023, in Cortez. Moran was fatally shot and killed in the line of duty this past Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)13332000A Farmington Police Department officer salutes as the body of Cortez Police Department, Sgt. Michael Moran, arrives at the Cortez Recreation Center on Wednesday, Dec., 6, 2023. Moran was fatally shot and killed in the line of duty this past Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)14602000The body of Cortez Police Department, Sgt. Michael Moran, is escorted on Wednesday, Dec., 6, 2023, in a procession of hundreds of law enforcement vehicles down Main Street to the Cortez Recreation Center for his funeral. Moran was fatally shot and killed in the line of duty this past Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)12711962The body of Cortez Police Department, Sgt. Michael Moran, is escorted on Wednesday, Dec., 6, 2023, in a procession of hundreds of law enforcement vehicles down Main Street to the Cortez Recreation Center for his funeral. Moran was fatally shot and killed in the line of duty this past Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)9342000The body of Cortez Police Department, Sgt. Michael Moran, is escorted on Wednesday, Dec., 6, 2023, in a procession of hundreds of law enforcement vehicles down Main Street to the Cortez Recreation Center for his funeral. Moran was fatally shot and killed in the line of duty this past Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)13752000Cortez Police Departments officers wrote on the sides of their windows as they escort the body of Cortez Police Department, Sgt. Michael Moran, on Wednesday, Dec., 6, 2023, down Main Street to the Cortez Recreation Center for his funeral. Moran was fatally shot and killed in the line of duty this past Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)1085950Cortez Police Departments officers wrote on the sides of their windows as they escort the body of Cortez Police Department, Sgt. Michael Moran, on Wednesday, Dec., 6, 2023, down Main Street to the Cortez Recreation Center for his funeral. Moran was fatally shot and killed in the line of duty this past Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)853950A blue ribbon under the windshield wiper of a car parked on Roger Smith Avenue as the funeral procession of Cortez Police Department, Sgt. Michael Moran, passes by on Wednesday, Dec., 6, 2023, in Cortez. Moran was fatally shot and killed in the line of duty this past Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)13232000The body of Cortez Police Department, Sgt. Michael Moran, is escorted on Wednesday, Dec., 6, 2023, in a procession of hundreds of law enforcement vehicles down Main Street to the Cortez Recreation Center for his funeral. Moran was fatally shot and killed in the line of duty this past Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)14212000The body of Cortez Police Department, Sgt. Michael Moran, is escorted on Wednesday, Dec., 6, 2023, in a procession of hundreds of law enforcement vehicles down Main Street to the Cortez Recreation Center for his funeral. Moran was fatally shot and killed in the line of duty this past Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)11722000A Classic Air Medical helicopter leads the procession of hundreds of law enforcement vehicles as they escort the body of Cortez Police Department, Sgt. Michael Moran, on Wednesday, Dec., 6, 2023, down Main Street to the Cortez Recreation Center for his funeral. Moran was fatally shot and killed in the line of duty this past Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)12691250A Classic Air Medical helicopter leads the procession of hundreds of law enforcement vehicles as they escort the body of Cortez Police Department, Sgt. Michael Moran, on Wednesday, Dec., 6, 2023, down Main Street to the Cortez Recreation Center for his funeral. Moran was fatally shot and killed in the line of duty this past Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)52652068Cortez Police Departments officers wrote on the sides of their windows as they escort the body of Cortez Police Department, Sgt. Michael Moran, on Wednesday, Dec., 6, 2023, down Main Street to the Cortez Recreation Center for his funeral. Moran was fatally shot and killed in the line of duty this past Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)830125019621271The body of Cortez Police Department, Sgt. Michael Moran, is escorted on Wednesday, Dec., 6, 2023, in a precession of hundreds of law enforcement vehicles down Main Street to the Cortez Recreation Center for his funeral. Moran was fatally shot and killed in the line of duty this past Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)
Photos: Funeral procession for Cortez Police Sgt. Michael Moran
Hundreds of law enforcement vehicles escort the body of Cortez Police Sgt. Michael Moran
PHOTOS: Fort Lewis basketball teams entertain Adams StateFLC men win 100-80 on Tuesday, women lose 76-56 Lanae Billy of Fort Lewis College fights for a loose ball while playing Adams State University on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)13622010Ember Cervantes of Fort Lewis College plays tough defense while playing Adams State University on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)18281500Avery Evans of Fort Lewis College puts up a shot while playing Adams State University on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)15971500Luisa Chavez of Fort Lewis College drives to the basket while playing Adams State University on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)24881500Natalie Guanella of Fort Lewis College puts up a shot while playing Adams State University on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)19331500Ember Cervantes of Fort Lewis College goes over her defender while playing Adams State University on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)23311500Luisa Chavez of Fort Lewis College goes for the ball while playing Adams State University on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)23372010Lanae Billy of Fort Lewis College puts up a 3-point shot while playing Adams State University on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)1998975Junior Garbrah of Fort Lewis College puts up a shot while playing Adams State University on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)21891500Malik Whitaker of Fort Lewis College tries to block a shot while playing Adams State University on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)22601500Obi Agbim of Fort Lewis College puts up a shot while playing Adams State University on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)20901500Tristan Hurdle of Fort Lewis College puts up a 3-point shot while playing Adams State University on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)19061500Jhei-R Jones of Fort Lewis College flies to the basket while playing Adams State University on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)22951500Brayden Carter of Fort Lewis College gets around hid defender while playing Adams State University on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)19691500Amondo Miller Jr. of Fort Lewis College drives to the basket while playing Adams State University on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)22611500Sekou Dembele of Fort Lewis College goes for a loose ball while playing Adams State University on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)2124201020102124Sekou Dembele of Fort Lewis College goes for a loose ball while playing Adams State University on Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)
PHOTOS: Fort Lewis basketball teams entertain Adams State
FLC men win 100-80 on Tuesday, women lose 76-56
0VideoYouTube480360Video: Candlelight vigil held for fallen Cortez police Sgt. Michael MoranHundreds attend Candlelight vigil for Cortez police Sgt. Michael Moran After a moment of silence, several co-workers spoke about Cortez Police Sgt. Michael Moran and his impact on them and their careers – how he could be tough on them as they learned their jobs and in the next breath how kind and caring he was.20001348Corin Wolf, right, hands a candle to Elisa Lukas, as Amanda Puett hands one to Cortez Police Officer, Karla Ross, during a candlelight vigil for Cortez Police Department Sgt. Michael Moran on Thursday, Nov, 30, 2023, in front of the CPD building. Moran was fatally shot in the line of duty on Wednesday. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)
Video: Candlelight vigil held for fallen Cortez police Sgt. Michael Moran
Hundreds attend Candlelight vigil for Cortez police Sgt. Michael Moran
PHOTOS: Fort Lewis women’s basketball cruises to 85-40 win over Lincoln UniversitySkyhawks score 41 points off turnovers Monday at Whalen GymnasiumSydney Bevington (3) of Fort Lewis College and Arielle Hines (31) of Lincoln University fight for a rebound on Monday, Nov. 27, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Matt Hollinshead/Durango Herald)36395452Lanae Billy of Fort Lewis College looks to attack the paint against Lincoln University on Monday, Nov. 27, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Matt Hollinshead/Durango Herald)46406960Avery Evans of Fort Lewis College drives in for a layup against Ranae Manu (14) and Arielle Hines (31) of Lincoln University on Monday, Nov. 27, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Matt Hollinshead/Durango Herald)46406960Luisa Chavez of Fort Lewis College drives in from the far right corner against Senaida Barrientos of Lincoln University on Monday, Nov. 27, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Matt Hollinshead/Durango Herald)46406960Luisa Chavez of Fort Lewis College fights her way to the rim against Arielle Hines of Lincoln University on Monday, Nov. 27, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Matt Hollinshead/Durango Herald)46406234Lanae Billy of Fort Lewis College goes in for a layup against Lincoln University on Monday, Nov. 27, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Matt Hollinshead/Durango Herald)46406960Lilly Pepper of Fort Lewis College goes in for a layup against Lincoln University on Monday, Nov. 27, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Matt Hollinshead/Durango Herald)4640696069604640Avery Evans of Fort Lewis College drives in for a layup against Ranae Manu (14) and Arielle Hines (31) of Lincoln University on Monday, Nov. 27, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Matt Hollinshead/Durango Herald)
PHOTOS: Fort Lewis women’s basketball cruises to 85-40 win over Lincoln University
Skyhawks score 41 points off turnovers Monday at Whalen Gymnasium
Snowstorm moves through the areaThe season’s first big snowstorm causes problems for drivers and makes for a winter wonderland30002107Jacob Stanton sits back near Purgatory Resort on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023, and enjoys the foot of snow that was left from the recent storm. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)A pedestrian makes their way on Friday, Nov. 24, 2023, along Roosa Avenue as a winter storm hits Durango. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)18672948A plow driver drives down a snow covered Lightner Creek Road (County Road 207) on Friday, Nov. 24, 2023, as a winter storm moves through La Plata County. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)18983000A winter storm moves through La Plata County on Friday late afternoon, Nov. 24, 2023. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)10432761A winter storm moves through Durango on Friday, Nov. 24, 2023. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)17543000Snow continues to fall on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023, near Purgatory Resort. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)11973000Plows begin clearing snow late afternoon Friday, Nov. 24, 2023, as a winter storm rolls through Durango. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)19193000A driver makes their way toward Purgatory Resort on U.S. Highway 550 on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023, north of Durango. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)17103000A pickup gets ready to pull a vehicle out of the ditch on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023, north of Durango on U.S. Highway 550. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)18763000A barn near Lightner Creek Road (County Road 207) is covered with snow on Friday, Nov. 24, 2023, as a winter storm moves through La Plata County. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)18763000A Colorado Department of Transportation plow driver clears remaining snow on U.S. Highway 550 on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023, north of Durango. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)19443000Jacob Stanton sits back near Purgatory Resort on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023, and enjoys the foot of snow that was left from the recent storm. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)21073000Drivers make their way on a snow-covered Lightner Creek Road (County Road 207) on Friday, Nov. 24, 2023, as a winter storm moves through La Plata County. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)20003000A vehicle is carried away on a tow truck after a crash on Friday, Nov. 24, 2023, on a snow-covered U.S. Highway 160 west of Durango as a winter storm moves through La Plata County. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)17723000
Snowstorm moves through the area
The season’s first big snowstorm causes problems for drivers and makes for a winter wonderland
Photos: Singing with SantaSanta Claus makes his first appearance in Durango30002000People begin to show up on Friday, Nov, 24, 2023, for Singing with Santa at Buckley Park. Attendance was down this year because of a winter storm. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)Santa Claus arrives in a Durango Fire Protection District fire truck on Friday, Nov, 24, 2023, for Singing with Santa at Buckley Park that was put on by the Business Improvement District. A couple hundred people braved the heavy snowfall that made it a winter wonderland. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)19711500Santa Claus arrives in a Durango Fire Protection District fire truck on Friday, Nov, 24, 2023, for Singing with Santa at Buckley Park that was put on by the Business Improvement District. A couple hundred people braved the heavy snowfall that made it a winter wonderland. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)20283000Santa Claus arrives in a Durango Fire Protection District fire truck on Friday, Nov, 24, 2023, for Singing with Santa at Buckley Park that was put on by the Business Improvement District. A couple hundred people braved the heavy snowfall that made it a winter wonderland. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)20653000Heavy snow falls on Friday, Nov, 24, 2023 during Singing with Santa at Buckley at Buckley Park, making it a winter wonderland. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)20823000The Durango Choral Society sings Christmas carols on Friday, Nov, 24, 2023, during Singing with Santa at Buckley Park. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)34256000Santa Claus makes his way through the crowd on Friday, Nov, 24, 2023, for Singing with Santa at Buckley Park that was put on by the Business Improvement District. A couple hundred people braved the heavy snowfall that made it a winter wonderland. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)22323000A couple of hundred people showed up on Friday, Nov, 24, 2023, for Singing with Santa at Buckley Park. Attendance was down this year because of a winter storm. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)19283000Heavy snow falls on Friday, Nov, 24, 2023, during Singing with Santa at Buckley, making it a winter wonderland. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)22251500People begin to show up on Friday, Nov, 24, 2023, for Singing with Santa at Buckley Park. Attendance was down this year because of a winter storm. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)20003000After Santa Claus arrived on Friday, Nov, 24, 2023, for Singing with Santa at Buckley Park, the community Christmas tree lights were turned on. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)1994975Heavy snow falls on Friday, Nov, 24, 2023, during Singing with Santa at Buckley Park, making it a winter wonderland. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)20683000Heavy snow falls on Friday, Nov, 24, 2023, during Singing with Santa at Buckley Park making it a winter wonderland. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)20203000Palmer Balliger, 3, shows excitement being able to sit on Santa Claus’ lap on Friday, Nov, 24, 2023, during Singing with Santa at Buckley Park that was put on by the Business Improvement District. A couple hundred people braved the heavy snowfall that made it a winter wonderland. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)18423000Heavy snow falls on Friday, Nov, 24, 2023, during Singing with Santa at Buckley at Buckley Park, making it a winter wonderland. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)20203000Santa Claus makes his way through the crowd on Friday, Nov, 24, 2023, during Singing with Santa at Buckley Park that was put on by the Business Improvement District. A couple hundred people braved the heavy snowfall that made it a winter wonderland. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)21433000Heavy snow falls on Friday, Nov, 24, 2023, during Singing with Santa at Buckley Park, making it a winter wonderland. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)18513000Heavy snow falls on Friday, Nov, 24, 2023, during Singing with Santa at Buckley Park, making it a winter wonderland. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)17553000A couple of hundred people showed up on Friday, Nov, 24, 2023, for Singing with Santa at Buckley Park. Attendance was down this year because of a winter storm. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)18363000
Photos: Singing with Santa
Santa Claus makes his first appearance in Durango
Snow descends on DurangoForecasters say storm could dump 6 inches in Durango areaDowntown Durango sees its first bit of snowfall on Friday, Nov. 24, 2023. (Matt Hollinshead/Durango Herald)46406960Downtown Durango sees its first bit of snowfall on Friday, Nov. 24, 2023. (Matt Hollinshead/Durango Herald)46406960Leaves cling to tree branches as snow begins to fall Friday, Nov. 24, 2023, in downtown Durango. (Matt Hollinshead/Durango Herald)46406960Three flags flutter through a gentle wind as snow begins to fall Friday, Nov. 24, 2023, in downtown Durango. (Matt Hollinshead/Durango Herald)46406960Snow begins to fall Friday, Nov. 24, 2023, in downtown Durango. (Matt Hollinshead/Durango Herald)46406960The railroad track near West 12th Street in downtown Durango is blanketed in snow on Friday, Nov. 24, 2023. (Matt Hollinshead/Durango Herald)46406960The railroad track near West 12th Street in downtown Durango is blanketed in snow on Friday, Nov. 24, 2023. (Matt Hollinshead/Durango Herald)46406960Snow continues to fall along Main Avenue in downtown Durango on Friday, Nov. 24, 2023. (Matt Hollinshead/Durango Herald)46406960Snow continues to fall along Main Avenue in downtown Durango on Friday, Nov. 24, 2023. (Matt Hollinshead/Durango Herald)46406960A fall storm that moved into Southwest Colorado Friday morning was expected to dump 6 inches of snow in the Durango area – more than weather forecasters had initially predicted.Snow started falling about 9:15 a.m. Friday and intensified shortly before 11:30 a.m., blanketing parks, vehicles and the hilltops overlooking the city. Roads became slick about 2:30 p.m. As of 4 p.m., the Durango Police Department had responded to six crashes, in addition to a few stranded motorists.U.S. Highway 160 at County Road 44 near Mancos Hill was closed from around 4 p.m. to just after 6 p.m. because a vehicle carrying an “oversized load” had spun out and blocked both the eastbound and westbound lanes, according to Colorado Department of Transportation spokeswoman Lisa Schwantes.“Right now our officers are able to keep up with the crashes that are coming in,” said Cmdr. Nick Stasi, with the Durango Police Department. “As always with winter weather, we remind drivers to slow down and give extra space for the cars in front.”Snow started accumulating very fast as the day went on, making it “challenging for plow operators to keep up,” according to CDOT.69604640The railroad track near West 12th Street in downtown Durango is blanketed in snow on Friday, Nov. 24, 2023. (Matt Hollinshead/Durango Herald)Southwest Colorado’s five major mountain passes were icy and snowpacked Friday afternoon. But all five remained open as of 4:15 p.m.The Pacific storm favored the southern and central Colorado mountains, said Dave Byers, meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Grand Junction.“Durango looks like a 70% chance of getting 6 inches or more of snow by the end of tonight (Friday),” Byers said.He expected a half inch to three-quarters of an inch of moisture from the storm, which is up from the one-tenth to two-tenths of an inch that was predicted earlier this week. Meanwhile, the mountains could receive 1 to 2 feet of snow from the storm, he said.“In the last few days, it has really picked up,” Byers said. “The southern mountains are catching the brunt of it.”The snowy weather didn’t stop Liz Ferrill and her family from stopping by Cream Bean Berry for a Unicorn Sundae. “We thought it might be a festive way to celebrate,” said Ferrill, who was visiting from Snowmass, where the first snow occurred in September.For others, the snow provided the impetus they needed to swap out tires or purchase new snow tires. Andre Payne, a sales person at J/P Tire in Durango, said the phone began ringing shortly after 9 a.m. with people wanting to switch to snow tires.“We’ve been pretty busy,” he said.69604640Snow continues to fall along Main Avenue in downtown Durango on Friday, Nov. 24, 2023. (Matt Hollinshead/Durango Herald)It is not unusual for drivers to wait until they see the first snow and then want to swap out tires. The tire shop began advising customers to switch to snow tires about three weeks ago. Some people take the advice, other choose to wait.“We can always tell people what to do, but if you're not ready for it then you have to suffer the consequences of waiting two hours or maybe getting in an accident,” Payne said.Byers said Friday’s storm was the result of a southwest flow pulling moisture from Southern California, Arizona and the Gulf of California.As the moisture-laden atmosphere hits the San Juan Mountains, it wrings out the moisture, he said.Temperatures are expected to cool off as the storm makes its way out of the region this weekend. The highs this weekend will be in the upper 30s, and the lows could dip into the single digits, he said.“There’s still a northerly flow that is pulling cold air down out of Canada,” he said.Byers characterized Friday’s storm as a “shoulder storm” between summer and winter, but he said it is a sure sign that a regular track is settling in for Southwest Colorado.“We’re expecting regular storms … from now on, more into that winter pattern,” Byers said.Residents can expect mostly clear conditions through Wednesday, with clouds moving in the following day ahead of another storm that looks “very similar” to Friday’s storm, Byers said.shane@durangoherald.com; mhollinshead@durangoherald.com69604640Downtown Durango sees its first bit of snowfall on Friday. (Matt Hollinshead/Durango Herald)
Snow descends on Durango
Forecasters say storm could dump 6 inches in Durango area
PHOTOS: Turkey Trot returns to DurangoNearly 600 competitors ran before they gobbled down their Thanksgiving feasts on ThursdayNearly 600 runners line up for the start of this year’s Turkey Trot on Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023, at Fort Lewis College for the 5-mile race. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)18983000Nearly 600 runners line up for the start of this years Turkey Trot Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023, at Fort Lewis College for the 5-mile race. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)11962010Nearly 600 runners line up for the start of this years Turkey Trot on Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023, at Fort Lewis College for the 5-mile race. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)20003000Nearly 600 runners line up for the start of this years Turkey Trot on Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023, at Fort Lewis College for the 5-mile race. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)17602998Nearly 600 runners line up for the start of this years Turkey Trot on Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023, at Fort Lewis College for the 5-mile race. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)19683000Runners cross the finish line in the 5-mile Turkey Trot on Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023, at Fort Lewis College. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)18141500Runners cross the finish line in the 5-mile Turkey Trot on Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023, at Fort Lewis College. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)20263000Luanna Ponwith, 4, waits for her mom to cross the finish line in the 5-mile Turkey Trot on Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023, at Fort Lewis College. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)17261500Braedon Sitmann placed second in the men’s Turkey Trot 5-mile race with a time of 26 minutes, 38 seconds on Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023, at Fort Lewis College. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)15471500Shannon Maloney placed second in the women's Turkey Trot 5-mile race with a time of 32 minutes, 35 seconds on Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023, at Fort Lewis College. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)18801500Zia Fadil, 12, won the women's Turkey Trot 5-mile race with a time of 30 minutes, 40 seconds on Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023, at Fort Lewis College. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)21481500Susie Kelly crosses the finish line in the Turkey Trot 5-mile race on Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023, at Fort Lewis College. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)15811500Braedon Sitmann hugs Amanda Sitmann after he placed second in the men’s Turkey Trot 5-mile race Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023, at Fort Lewis College. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)20773000Wade Hall wins the men’s Turkey Trot 5-mile race with a time of 26 minutes, 21 seconds on Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023, at Fort Lewis College. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)20551500Anthony Kunkel, crosses the finish line in third place with a time of 27 minutes, 34 seconds and is congratulated by Braedon Sitmann, who placed second, in the men’s Turkey Trot 5-mile race on Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023, at Fort Lewis College. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)17521500Runners cross the finish line in the Turkey Trot 5-mile race on Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023, at Fort Lewis College. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)20263000Runners and walkers take off at the start of Turkey Trot 1-mile fun run Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023, at Fort Lewis College. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)18933000jm@durangoherald.com30002000Nearly 600 runners take off at the start of the Turkey Trot 5-mile race Thursday, Nov. 23, 2023, at Fort Lewis College. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)
PHOTOS: Turkey Trot returns to Durango
Nearly 600 competitors ran before they gobbled down their Thanksgiving feasts on Thursday
PHOTOS: Durango faces Lutheran in 3A state football quarterfinalsDemons fall to Lions, 39-30, on SaturdayDurango High School kicks off Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, starting the 3A state playoff game against Lutheran High School at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)12342010Umbrellas and raincoats came out for the Durango High School Lutheran High School 3A state playoff game on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)13812010Samuel Smolen of Lutheran High School intercepts a Durango High School pass while playing in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)16101500Braxton Waddell of Durango High School on the sidelines Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, while playing Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)13402010Cole Pontine of Durango High School makes a tackle against Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)16302010Ryan Dugan of Durango High School runs the ball against Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)20001500Durango High School players tackle Ryken Daugaard Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)18161500Quarterback Tyler Harms of Durango High School rushes the ball against Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)12452010Durango High School kicks off while playing Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)12572010Umbrellas and raincoats came out for the Durango High School Lutheran High School 3A state playoff game on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)30204578Durango High School get excited about a play while playing Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)10322010Quarterback Tyler Harms of Durango High School rushes the ball against Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)14992159Gage Voiles of Durango High School almost blocks a kick against Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)22511500Mason Palmer of Durango High School finds an opening and runs for a touchdown against Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)13742010Mason Palmer of Durango High School finds an opening and runs for a touchdown against Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)19921500Mason Palmer of Durango High School finds an opening and runs for a touchdown against Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)11022010Durango High School cheerleaders during the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)16622010Quarterback Tyler Harms of Durango High School rushes the ball against Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)14992159Jackson Hubertus of Durango High School hits Ryken Daugaard of Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)21411500Mason Palmer of Durango High School finds an opening and runs for a touchdown against Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)13402010Dylan Burns of Durango High School is congratulated after kicking a field goal while playing Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)14172010Durango High School quarterback Tyler Harms passes the ball while playing Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)15232010Louden Grimes watches as Seb Tripp of Durango High School makes a catch while playing Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)13832010Seb Tripp of Durango High School runs the ball while playing Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)14222010Seb Tripp of Durango High School goes up for a catch while playing Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)21451500Dylan Burns of Durango High School kicks an extra point against Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)14662010Tate Rose, left, and Grady Feeney of Durango High School make a tackle against Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)13032010Louden Grimes of Durango High School breaks two tackles Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, and scores a touchdown against Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)22362010Cully Feeney of Durango High School receives a kickoff while playing Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)19342010Tyler Harms fakes a handoff to Ryan Dugan of Durango High School while playing Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)17881500Durango High School head coach Matt Burton talks with his players while playing Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)11252010Mason Palmer of Durango High School is almost pulled down keeping him from making an interception while playing Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)14361500Mason Palmer of Durango High School is almost pulled down keeping him from making an interception while playing Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)17041500Cole Pontine of Durango High School makes an interception while playing Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)21011500Julian Rodriguez, left, and Braxton Waddell of Durango High School make a tackle while playing Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)20202010Julius Arredondo of Durango High School battles at the line of scrimmage while playing Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)16871500Louden Grimes of Durango High School breaks two tackles and scores a touchdown against Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)19361500Cole Pontine of Durango High School goes up and deflects a pass before Mason Palmer catches it for an interception while playing Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)21011500Cole Pontine of Durango High School goes up and deflects a pass before Mason Palmer catches it for an interception while playing Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)1144201020101245Quarterback Tyler Harms of Durango High School rushes the ball against Lutheran High School in the second round of the 3A state playoffs on Saturday, Nov, 18, 2023, at DHS. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)
PHOTOS: Durango faces Lutheran in 3A state football quarterfinals
Demons fall to Lions, 39-30, on Saturday
PHOTOS: Fort Lewis basketball teams host doubleheaderThe men’s team beat Western New Mexico 87-68, while the women’s team fell in the final minutes to Northern New Mexico, 67-62Kate Gallery of Fort Lewis College fights for the ball while playing Northern New Mexico College on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)12851500Kelsey Sorenson of Fort Lewis College drives to the basket while playing Northern New Mexico College on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)21881500Sydney Bevington of Fort Lewis College puts up a shot while playing Northern New Mexico College on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)2462975Ember Cervantes of Fort Lewis College drives to the basket while playing Northern New Mexico College on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)18801500Kelsey Sorenson of Fort Lewis College puts up a shot while playing Northern New Mexico College on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)20961500Obi Agbim of Fort Lewis College puts up a shot Friday, Nov, 17, 2023, while playing Western New Mexico University at FLC. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)22931500The Fort Lewis College bench cheers on their team while playing Northern New Mexico College on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)40005401Lanae Billy of Fort Lewis College passes off the ball while playing Northern New Mexico College on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)19511500Kelsey Sorenson, left, and Samantha Wattawa of Fort Lewis College fight for the ball while playing Northern New Mexico College on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)16162010Lanae Billy of Fort Lewis College drives to the basket while playing Northern New Mexico College on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)18612010Kelsey Sorenson, left, and Trista Hoobler of Fort Lewis College play defense against Northern New Mexico College on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)14732010Samantha Wattawa of Fort Lewis College jumps to block a shot while playing Northern New Mexico College on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)19951500Lanae Billy of Fort Lewis College puts up a shot while playing Northern New Mexico College on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)17041500Fort Lewis College women’s basketball coach Taylor Harris calls out to his team while playing Northern New Mexico College on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)15732010Junior Garbrah of Fort Lewis College stops a drive while playing Western New Mexico University on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)14501500Malik Whitaker of Fort Lewis College puts up a shot while playing Western New Mexico University on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)23321500Brayden Carter of Fort Lewis College fights through the defense and puts up a shot while playing Western New Mexico University on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)15002010Isaiah Thompson of Fort Lewis College puts up a shot while playing Western New Mexico University on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)21191500Junior Garbrah, left, and Sekou Dembele of Fort Lewis College cause a turnover while playing Western New Mexico University on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)18481500Obi Agbim of Fort Lewis College drives to the rim while playing Western New Mexico University on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)22501500Sekou Dembele of Fort Lewis College puts up a shot while playing Western New Mexico University on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)23331500Sekou Dembele of Fort Lewis College goes in for a dunk while playing Western New Mexico University on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)22881500Junior Garbrah of Fort Lewis College puts up a 3-point shot while playing Western New Mexico University on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)2139975Brayden Carter of Fort Lewis College puts up a shot while playing Western New Mexico University on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)2323150020101500Brayden Carter of Fort Lewis College fights through the defense and puts up while playing Western New Mexico University on Friday, Nov. 17, 2023, at Whalen Gymnasium. (Jerry McBride/Durango Herald)
PHOTOS: Fort Lewis basketball teams host doubleheader
The men’s team beat Western New Mexico 87-68, while the women’s team fell in the final minutes to Northern New Mexico, 67-62
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Johnny Depp among stars paying tribute at funeral of The Pogues singer Shane MacGowan
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Johnny Depp among stars paying tribute at funeral of The Pogues singer Shane MacGowan
The Titans place punter Ryan Stonehouse on IR with season-ending injury
Michigan teen is sentenced to life in prison for killing 4 students at Oxford High School
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