Local First

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Be Local Bash and helped us celebrate the businesses, nonprofits, and people that power localism in La Plata County!

We’re deeply grateful to everyone who helped make the evening such a meaningful celebration—especially our speaker, John Shaw; musician Leah Orlikowski; Graze Colorado for their wonderful food and hospitality; and the many members, partners, and community supporters whose generosity and support made the event possible.

Special thanks to our sponsors: The Payroll Department, Alpine Bank, Durango Land and Homes, Graze Colorado, Jimmy’s Music & Supply, Durango Sustainable Goods, Durango Flight Tours, Adela Flora, and Tailwind Nutrition.

Thank you for showing up for local. We’re excited to keep building a thriving, resilient, and connected local economy together. 💛

Congratulations to the 2026 Local First Indie Award winners and runners-up! 🎉

🏆 Local Legend Award
Winner: The Good Food Collective
Runner-Up: Sarvaa Organics

⭐ Rising Star Award
Winner: Nook Ceramics
Runner-Up: Durango Wild Soul

🤝 Community Collaborator Award
Winner: The iAM MUSIC Institute
Runner-Up: Graze Colorado

🌱 Sustainability Champion Award
Winner: Desert Sun Coffee Roasters
Runner-Up: Grassburger

💛 Localist of the Year
Winner: Heather Erb, Realtor, Owner & Broker of Destination DRO Real Estate Group
Runner-Up: Jan & Greg Phillips

Each of these businesses and community leaders is helping make La Plata County more vibrant, connected, and local. Thank you to everyone who voted and helped us celebrate the people and businesses making a meaningful impact in our community.

A special thank you to Jacqueline Hess Designs for creating this year's beautiful handcrafted Indie Awards!

🍴 Great food brings people together, and we're excited to have Graze Colorado helping do just that at this year's Be Local Bash!

Known for their beautiful grazing tables and charcuterie experiences, Graze Colorado sources from local vendors and helps elevate events for businesses and organizations across our community. Their commitment to supporting local makes them a perfect fit for the Be Local Bash.

Join us June 9 from 4:30-6:30pm at The Rochester Hotel for:�

�🍽️ Delicious bites from Graze Colorado�
🎶 Live music by Leah Orlikowski, sponsored by Jimmy's Music & Supply�
🎤 A keynote from John Shaw of Shaw Solar�
🏆 The Indie Awards, honoring local leaders and businesses making a meaningful impact in our community

🎟️ Get your tickets today and celebrate the power of local with us!�https://givebutter.com/2026-be-local-bash

Memorial Day weekend is here, marking the start of summer in Durango.
As you head out to enjoy the long weekend, consider making local part of your plans. Grab a meal, shop small, or explore somewhere new right here at home.
Every local choice adds up.
Where are you heading this weekend?