With the recent snowfall, winter has officially arrived here in Southwest Colorado; and like so many of us, the Durango Chamber is excited to receive the much-needed moisture as we head into a busy holiday season. 

This magical time of year would not be possible without the businesses, employees, and volunteers who put in the time and commitment, bringing the holiday spirit to our winter wonderland, and we are grateful for every one of you. To our wonderful community members, your dollars are the best way to pay it forward to the businesses that give so much of themselves to make life in Durango exceptional. If you haven’t considered it already, keep the cheer right here while holiday shopping and look local first. It’s a great way to support our small businesses and the whole community.

When you spend your money locally, each dollar circulates 5-7 more times within the community. Known as the multiplier effect, this money helps maintain roads, parks, and infrastructure that increases our quality of life and well-being. Local spending ensures a robust homegrown economy supporting entrepreneurs and provides ample employment opportunities. A healthy local economy helps everyone, from your friends and neighbors to the visitors who come to enjoy our neck of the woods. 

In the spirit of supporting the local dollar, the Durango Business Improvement District is continuing its annual Holiday Rewards Program. It began on Noel Night (December 1st) and ends once all rewards have been claimed. Along with Alpine Bank and Eolus Bar and Dining, the Durango Chamber is proud to sponsor this program, which rewards shoppers for spending money at selected Chamber and BID businesses. A total of 250 rewards are available to those who present receipts that place them in one of three spending levels ($200, $400, and $750). For a complete list of rules and participating businesses, visit BID’s website at DowntownDurango.org/holiday-rewards. 

In addition to our incredible businesses in Durango, those in Bayfield and Ignacio would also benefit from your support of local service providers, restaurants, and retail locations. If there is something you can’t find in Durango, or you want to expand your shopping area, be sure to check out the fantastic options available in our neighboring communities.

One last extension of gratitude goes to those who submitted their nominations for our annual Durango Rocks Awards event. Your nominations highlight the outstanding individuals, businesses, and organizations that make a positive impact on our community every day. We look forward to celebrating with you all on Thursday, February 29th. Be sure to mark your calendars and join us in celebrating these outstanding community members. 

Finally, we ask that you support our Durango Chamber members.  For a complete list, visit

DurangoBusiness.org.  Happy Holidays from the Durango Chamber!

Navigating Local & State Policy Initiatives

As part of the Durango Chamber’s commitment to effective advocacy, the Legislative Affairs Committee monthly report is posted online so our members and community can stay abreast of the latest developments related to public policy on the state and local levels. Read the report here!



You're invited to attend the Chamber Day at the Capitol on Thursday, Feb. 8 in Denver, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the legislative process, connect with policymakers and champion issues that matter most to the La Plata County business community. Mark your calendar and stay tuned for details.

Join us for the Holiday Business After Hours at TBK Bank Dec. 14th!

‘Tis the season to celebrate and spread joy! Join us at TBK Bank on Dec. 14th for the festive Holiday Business After Hours from 5pm to 7pm. Experience the magic of the holidays and enjoy twinkling lights, seasonal treats, and warm camaraderie. It’s the perfect opportunity to network and connect with fellow business professionals and share the holiday spirit.  Special thanks to TBK Bank and Star Liquors for supplying the delightful door prizes! Register online HERE & save!

Secretary of State Jena Griswold Visits Durango

Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold joined community leaders and Chamber members at the Durango Chamber of Commerce last week to discuss state efforts to support small businesses and elections.  Secretary Griswold provided insight into the election process and the current issues impacting it from a state and local perspective.   

Congratulations to Stoneage Tools for being Named one of the Top 50 Best Places to Work in 2023!  

Employees want more than cool amenities in the workplace. While StoneAge offers great perks like paid volunteer time off, charity donation direction, onsite gym, massage health fair and yoga classes, the employee-owned structure ensures employee-owners have a stake in the collective success of the company. Many team members have more than two decades of experience, which is a testament to the strong culture at StoneAge. Congratulations on being named one of the Top 50 Best Places to Work!

StoneAge Tools

Engineering the Power of Water

Kerry Siggins, CEO

By Sara Lynn Valentine

StoneAge, the world’s leading manufacturer of water-jet tools and equipment for industrial cleaning, got its start in 1979 in a garage in Durango. Durangoan Jerry Zinc was a graduate student at Colorado School of Mines when he met John Wolgamott, a research assistant there. Together they came up with an idea for a water jet drill that could be used to safely and efficiently drill holes for dynamite placement in uranium extraction. They were convinced they had a game-changing invention. When Jerry graduated from School of Mines, he and John moved to Durango to set up shop. They’d completed their first few sales when the most significant nuclear accident in U S history (Three Mile Island) brought the entire nuclear industry to a virtual standstill. Demand for uranium plummeted and StoneAge was left with an amazing tool, but no market for it. 

Scrambling for new direction, Jerry and John attended the first conference of the WaterJet Technology Association. They met the representative of a large industrial cleaning company who suggested that if they could drill holes in rock with their tool, maybe they could drill out the hardcore mineral and chemical residues that clogged industrial pipes. Forty years later, StoneAge is well-known all over the world for "engineering the power of water" to clean heavy industrial manufacturing facilities like refineries, chemical plants, and food processing plants. StoneAge headquarters remain in Durango with sales and service offices in Texas, Louisiana, Ohio, Nevada, the Netherlands, and the UK.

“We have more than 100 dealers in over 30 countries,” says Kerry Siggins, CEO of StoneAge. Kerry grew up on the Western Slope in Montrose, and like the company’s founders, is a graduate of the School of Mines. “I was one year old when they started StoneAge,” Kerry says. Kerr has been at StoneAge for 17 years, and as CEO for the past 14.

“Here in Durango we have engineering, finance, IT, marketing, customer service, and a manufacturing facility focused on research and development, prototyping and custom solutions. We have shipping and receiving and warehouse operations here as well. We're a 100% employee-owned company. Our employee stock ownership program gives StoneAge a unique ‘ownership culture.’ Our employees go above and beyond. They care deeply about each other, and our community.”

Employees choose five local charities to support financially each quarter. As a company, StoneAge sponsors local organizations that focus on economic development, STEM education, and a variety of other things that employees are passionate about.

Each year the company participates in events like the La Plata Economic Alliance Summit and provides guidance and mentoring to local businesses that request help.

“We love being part of the local business community,” Kerry says. “We value the educational seminars and networking opportunities the Durango Chamber of Commerce offers. The Chamber does a great job advocating for us and other businesses in La Plata County."

With over 110 local employees, StoneAge has a significant impact on Durango's economy by providing high-paying, high-value, engaging jobs with profit-sharing benefits.

"Our employees are brilliant," Kerry says. "We recruit, develop and retain outstanding talent in all our locations, but especially Durango.”

Learn more at www.stoneagetools.com. Contact Carol Taylor, Director of Marketing, at (970) 259-2869 or email carol.taylor@stoneagetools.com.

Featured Chamber Diplomat:

Mikayla Rivas



What is Your Business?  I work as a Social Media Account Manager with Marketing Concepts Squared. Our mission is to help small businesses maintain an effective online presence.

How long have you been a Diplomat? I joined the Diplomats earlier this year!

How long have you lived in Durango?  While I officially moved to Durango in 2021, it has held a special place in my heart since I enjoyed many visits throughout my childhood.

Tell us about your family (including pets): My husband Paul and I also run a mobile espresso bar where we cater specialty coffee for weddings and events. When not out and about, we love to spend time at home with our two cats.

What is your favorite part of being a DIP? I’ve really enjoyed getting to know other professionals and feeling more connected to our community. Little did I know the dips are a hoot and a half, and I have truly had so much fun with this group.



Fun fact about you: I love to travel and take road trips whenever possible. So far, I have visited 34 US states.

Learn more about getting involved with the Diplomat Program here.

Meet a member of the YPODs:

Alicia Laws

Where do you work? Sky Ute Casino Resort

What is your job title/responsibilities? Catering Sales Manager

Why did you want to be a YPOD member? I joined YPODs to meet other people my age in a professional setting.

How do you spend your time/hobbies? I love to snowboard, I also love country 2-step.

Want to join the YPODs? Find out more here.

Upcoming Chamber Programs & Events!

Calendar of Events --  For more info & to register: DurangoBusiness.org

Dec. 6  Business Connections Leads Group

Dec. 12  Business Builders Leads Group

Dec. 14 Holiday Business After Hours at TBK Bank

Dec. 15  YPOD Tea Tasting with Old Barrel Tea Company

Jan. 24  Lunch & Learn Workshop

Jan. 31  Snowdown Business After Hours

Feb. 8  Durango-area Business’ Chamber Day at the Capitol

Feb. 29  Durango Rocks Awards Celebration

What’s Happening with our Chamber Members!

Find more information here.

Now – Jan. 1 The Polar Express Train

Dec. 6 Wreath Making with Adela Floral

Dec. 8 Sutcliffe Holiday Shopping Spree at the Durango Tasting Room

Dec. 8 Parade of Gingerbread Homes at Animas Chocolate

Dec. 8-29 (Fridays only) Fresh Beer Fridays at Ska Brewing

Dec. 9 State Street Ballet of Santa Barbara’s ‘Nutcracker’

Dec. 16 TBK Bank 2nd Annual Cookies & Cocoa with Santa

Dec. 16 Photos with Santa at Durango Harley-Davidson

Dec. 20 Bar D Wranglers Christmas Jubilee

Dec. 22 Santa & Mrs. Claus Visit Purgatory Ski Resort

Dec. 25 Annual Christmas Brunch at Manna Soup Kitchen



Want your event listed? It’s free! 

Log in to your portal or call us at

(970) 247-0312 ext 2

The Chamber Unveils an Exciting New Podcast for Durango’s Business Community!

The Durango Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce that we now have a Podcast, Down to Business! The podcast will feature business and community leaders, uncover the latest happenings, and explore the vibrant tapestry of our mountain town life. From entrepreneurs to upcoming events, we've got you covered. The Down to Business podcast is available on Spotify or you can follow this link.

Many Thanks to Dr. Theresa Larson, Movement RX,

for Leading the November Coffee Connections!

Dr. Theresa Larson of Movement Rx Leaders shared valuable insight

on how health and business are deeply intertwined. She reviewed how to tune into your health, find your blind spots, and talk through ways to stay accountable along your journey to being a healthy leader. If you missed November’s Coffee Connections, you can catch the podcast featuring Dr. T here.

LLP Monthly Focus:

4 Steps to Practicing Gratitude in Leadership

By Stacy Reuille-Dupont, StudioB

In this season of thanking, giving, and celebrating today, I want to dive into a topic that's incredibly important but often overlooked – the challenges and pitfalls of practicing gratitude when you're a leader who feels isolated and overly responsible for others. It's a unique struggle that many leaders face, and I want to shed some light on the difficulties that come with it.

The Double-Edged Sword of Leadership

Being a leader can be both rewarding and incredibly demanding. On one hand, you have the opportunity to make a positive impact and inspire your team. But on the other hand, the burden of responsibility and the isolation that often accompanies leadership can make practicing gratitude seem like an uphill battle.



The Pitfall of Over-responsibility

One of the major pitfalls that leaders often face is the trap of over-responsibility. You might find yourself constantly trying to ensure everyone's satisfaction and joy. It's a noble intention, but it can lead to burnout and feelings of inadequacy. It's essential to recognize that you can't control everything or make everyone happy all the time.

Monthly Sponsor:

Congratulations to Meadow Market on your Grand Opening

& Ribbon Cutting! 

Meadow Market offers coffee, small deli/bakery, creatively chosen grocery items & necessities, and unique household items and gifts. Experience inviting indoor and outdoor seating areas where you and friends can relax and enjoy coffee, beer or a glass of wine with your delectable dishes. The Market features tasty Tapas on Friday nights and pre-order to-go dinners on Sundays.

Located at 688 Edgemont Meadows Road. For more information, visit MeadowMarketDurango.com or Instagram.com/MeadowMarketDurango

Mountain Luxe Interiors

Christine Heartsill

1309 E 3rd Ave Suite 33

Durango, CO 81301

website

Horizon Environmental Services Inc

Trisha Mead

PO Box 9057

Durango, CO 81302

website

Cedar Group Marketing &

Public Relations

Paige Sparks

2632 W 2nd Ave

Durango, CO 81301

website

Watch the latest Member Moment Video featuring LPEA. Find past Member Moment Videos here.

WILDE Spirit Retreat

Florence Gaia, RN

website

Life/Business Coaching

Earthen Vessel Gallery

Valerie Schwiderski

934 Main Ave Unit A

Durango, CO 81301

website

Laurie Maly Realtor

Keller Williams Realty Southwest

Laurie Maly

700 Main Ave.

Durango, CO 81301

Meadow Market

Aimee Martin

688 Edgemont Meadows Road

Durango, CO 81301

website

Stillwater Music

Casey Padron

1316 Main Suite C

Durango, CO 81301

website

Cascade Xpress CarWash

Durango Land and Homes, LLC

Durango Premier Auto Care

Mountain Auto Care

Psyche Digital, Ltd.

Adela Floral

Best Cleaning & Disaster Restoration Services, Inc

Desert Sun Coffee Roasters

Durango Food Bank

Durango High Noon Rotary

Four Leaves Winery

Horizon Properties of Durango

Jack-A-Lope Acres

Legacy Properties West Sotheby's International Realty

Phoenix Recycling, LLC

Whole Expo, LLC

Fort Lewis College

Johnny Castillo

Nancy Ottman

Academy Mortgage

Pathfinder Chiropractic

Rocky Mountain Balloon Adventures

Shaw Solar

Sunnyside Farms Market

TruWest Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram

Allison Ragsdale Photography

American Red Cross of Western Colorado

Arete Mortgage

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Colorado

Cindy Miller Atchison Design | Art

Clark, White & Assoc.

GM Mortgage

Laura's Artisan

Sagebrush Limited

Southwest Business Builders BNI

Trout Unlimited - 5 Rivers Chapter

TruWest Auto Outlet

Zuberfizz by Durango Soda Company, Inc.

Rocky Mountain Chocolate

Debbie Stephan

Kip Koso

Durango Cowboy Gathering, Inc.

Durango Dermatology

Coca Cola

Sweet meets nutritious in these holiday treats

La Plata County Extension: Health Tip of the Month

by Nicole Clark, RDN, M.Ed.

Let’s face it, there’s no escaping holiday sweet treats. You may decide to eat one or one of each. With each bite, may you enjoy the treat for what it is - sweet and delicious. But wait! What if you could add “nutritious” to the description without compromising quality?

Believe it or not, it is possible to make a healthier holiday treat and still satisfy your sweet tooth. In return, you sneak in nutrients that help your mind and body function more optimally. Now, keep in mind, these are still “treats” and they still have calories. But if you know you’re going to eat them, make this an opportunity to eat better.    

Go in with an open mind - expect that there will always be slight changes in texture or taste when you modify a recipe. What you can later decide is if the recipe continues to be adequately satisfying, especially as you weigh in the health benefits. Bon appetit!

Applesauce

Substitute 50% of the oil in quick breads (such as zucchini, banana or pumpkin) with applesauce. A ½ cup substitution saves you 867 calories per loaf!

• Applesauce Oatmeal Bread

Beans

Mashed canned beans make a great substitute for flour! You’re gluten-free friends will love you, and everyone will appreciate the added fiber, protein and antioxidants. That is if you let them in on your secret!  

• White Bean Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Black bean brownies

Dark Chocolate, Nuts and Fruit

Antioxidants, healthy fats and fruit make for a healthy sweet treat.

• Cherry Chocolate Clusters (and MORE!) 

Less sugar

Try reducing the amount of sugar in a recipe by ¼ - ⅓, in most cases you won’t even notice the difference. Reduced sugar cookies will be thinner, flatter and crispier. 

Unsaturated fats (avocado) vs. saturated fats (butter) 

Both types of fat have the same amount of calories per weight. But unsaturated fats are better for heart health because the reduce triglycerides, and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol while maintaining or improving HDL (“good”) cholesterol.  

• Mexican chocolate avocado mousse

La Plata County Extension health programming: nicole.clark@co.plata.co.us or (970) 382-6461.

Become an Agile Leader in the New Year

The upcoming start of a new year is the perfect time for self-reflection and to set goals for yourself as a leader. Make one of your 2024 resolutions to become an agile leader by promoting adaptability, experimentation and autonomy at work.

What is Agile Leadership?

While many of the qualities of agile leaders resemble those of adaptive leaders, agile leadership is unique. BetterWorks describes it as a leadership style that allows for failing fast and equips employees to improve their productivity and effectiveness.

Modeled after agile software development, this method identifies barriers early, requires consistent communication between leaders and their reports and empowers employees as they independently work toward a common goal.

There are nine principles of agile leadership, according to Agile Business Consortium. These continually evolving values offer a starting point for leaders who want to improve their agility, covering concepts from letting your actions speak for themselves to building a shared purpose, making work fulfilling through purpose and delegating.

Learn more here

The Durango, CO Express office is located at 321 So Camino Del Rio and serves the Four Corners Area. Local businesses and applicants are encouraged to stop by, visit www.Expresspros.com/Durangoco or call (970) 403-8780.

NEW! Value-Based Memberships

The Durango Chamber is now offering value-based memberships with the ability to choose what works best for your business. The previous structure was a “fair share” model, based on the number of employees with 15 total membership levels. The Chamber has been working on this change for several years, and hasn’t altered its structure in 10+ years, nor has it changed pricing in 5 years. The current 15 levels are being simplified to 7 and all members are being offered a choice of what’s best for them. Learn more here

2023 DURANGO CHAMBER STAFF

Staff

Jack Llewellyn, Chief Executive Officer

Kim Oyler, Chief Operations Officer

Jennifer Dickens, Communications Coordinator

Madison Anderson-Oles, Member Relations Coordinator

2301 Main Avenue | Durango, CO 81301

970.247.0312 

www.durangobusiness.org

chamber@durangobusiness.org

Chamber Board Members

Charles Spence, Maynes, Bradford, Shipps & Sheftel

Dr. Karen Cheser, 9-R School District

Melisa Jackson Palmer, Bank of Colorado

Vaughn Morris, Boys and Girls Club

Michael Hennon, The Payroll Department

Brandon Mencini, CEO Mercy Hospital

Diana Murray, ASAP Accounting & Payroll

Rebekah Click, Durango Motor Company

Neil Dolder, Leadership La Plata Representative

Jaynes Construction

Joseph Kuzma, YPOD Representative

The Community Foundation

 Dave Woodruff, City of Durango Representative

Matthew Gomez, Diplomat Representative

The Payroll Department

2301 Main Avenue | 970.247.2301 | DurangoBusiness.org