In September, we hosted a Coffee Connections event with Fort Lewis College professor Amoneeta Beckstein. The presentation and discussion focused on maximizing leadership potential through mindfulness, and I was struck by the thoughtful discourse it inspired among our Chamber members.

When Professor Beckstein asked the group what characteristics made a good leader, the group instantly started to chime in with words like kindness, compassion, and ownership. These characteristics require a great deal of mindfulness and composure to apply them consistently, and they are precisely the characteristics many of our local leaders and business owners possess.

Kindness and compassion towards the community at large make the individuals and organizations in Durango so special. Durango Rocks is one way The Chamber recognizes our community’s leaders for their tireless efforts. Look at any of our past recipients, and you will see dedicated individuals who have gone above and beyond to support their colleagues and community by demonstrating all the qualities of a mindful, compassionate leader.

Durango Rocks honors several businesses and community members annually for their outstanding qualities as visionaries. Our members and the public nominate honorees for each category and the awards committee votes to select the final recipient based on merit, not popularity.

The Business of the Year Award recognizes dynamic companies that share a commitment to excellence, business growth, and the community. These companies demonstrate achievement in service as well as innovation in management. Past recipients include Morehart Murphy Regional Auto Center, Kroegers Ace Hardware, 1st Southwest Bank, Peak Food and Beverage, and Durango Dermatology.

Small Business of the Year honors companies that have been in business for at least three years with fewer than 15 full-time employees. These businesses demonstrate innovation, perseverance, and outstanding accomplishments in management. They do all of this while creating and growing a successful business. Past recipients include Adela Flora, Southwest Eye Consultants, Honeyville and Honey House Distillery, Durango Harley Davidson, and Pet Haus.

Entrepreneur of the Year is an award given to an individual who creates a new business and is seen as a source of new ideas, goods, or services. They take on the risks of building a startup and demonstrate strong vision, leadership, and ingenuity. Past recipients include Ben Sorensen with Ascent Digital Media, Carol Clark with Union Social House, Erin Neer with MuniRevs, Jeff and Jennifer Vierling with Tailwind Nutrition.

Citizen of the Year recognizes those who have made a noteworthy contribution to our community that is above and beyond their profession or regular responsibilities. These individuals exemplify putting the community first and making Durango a better place to live and work. Past recipients include Gaige Sippy, Karen Zink, Bob Wolf, Ellen Roberts, and Joanne Spina.

Non-Profit of the Year recognizes outstanding achievement in the non-profit sector. These organizations meet an unfilled need for the betterment of the area and serve with distinction. Past recipients include Region 9 Economic Development, Trails 2000, and the Community Foundation.

Volunteer of the Year goes to an individual who exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism and leadership, which is above and beyond their profession and everyday responsibilities. Past recipients include Vaughn Morris, Dave Woodruff, Lisa Barrett, and Jeff Givens.

If you have an individual, business, or non-profit you want to nominate for a Durango Rocks award, the deadline is Tuesday, October 31st, at 5 p.m. You can submit your nominations under the Awards Nominations tab.

Award – Nominations are now open

Award Nominations are Due Oct. 31!

• Do you know a business or nonprofit that embodies innovation, dedication and excellence? It’s time to shine a spotlight on how they contribute to the community and give them the recognition they deserve!  

• Can you name an individual who inspires, empowers and leads by example? Let’s honor their remarkable contributions and celebrate their outstanding leadership!

Now is the time to nominate businesses, nonprofits, and leaders so we can recognize their tireless dedication and exceptional guidance during the prestigious annual Chamber Awards. 

Making a nomination is EASY! Highlight what makes them stand out with this simple nomination webpage! Submissions are due Oct. 31!

Eggs & Issues: Proposition HH – What You Need to Know Before Hitting the Ballot Box!

Oct. 12 8am to 10am

Take a deep dive into this issue with a balanced discussion featuring expert speakers from both the pro- and con- sides of the ballot initiative. Plus learn what impact this measure could mean for you and our region from La Plata County Assessor Carrie Woodson! Engage in the Q&A session so you can decide how you want to vote.

Coffee Connection: Your Health is Your Business

with author Theresa Larson

November 7th - 8am

If we do not make time in the short term for our self-care, which is our most effective and empowering form of health care, the long-term cost is dysfunction and disease. Leaders often stop taking care of themselves when life gets overwhelming; self-care is seen as a nice to have and NOT a necessity. The reality is we will wait until we are sick or injured to act on our self-care, which comes at a huge emotional and physical cost.

Learn more and register here.

Business Connection

The Energy Council

Michelina Paulek, Executive Director

By Sara Lynn Valentine

The Energy Council is a nonprofit trade organization formed in 1998, with the mission of promoting safe and responsible oil, natural gas, and CO2 development in the San Juan Basin. That includes La Plata, Dolores, Montezuma and Archuleta Counties.

“I’m a 4th generation La Plata County resident, with an agricultural background,” Michelina says.“My training is in education and nursing. I have a Masters and worked as a nurse for almost twenty years. I came to the Energy Council in January 2022 as Executive Director.”

Michelina’s background, along with her experience in public health policy, uniquely qualify her for this position. She’s also been a Planning Commissioner in La Plata County, is an alum of Leadership La Plata, a local landowner, and has been involved with Colorado Farm Bureau and La Plata/Archuleta Cattleman’s Association.

“My job is to support the local natural gas, oil and CO2 development industry, and strengthen relationships with our community,” Michelina says. “I spend a lot of time educating people about our industry and answering questions.”

Some local residents want stricter limits on oil, gas and CO2 development in La Plata County. Others vehemently oppose ALL such development. They cite environmental safety concerns and suggest that lower income properties, on the mesa southeast of town, for example, are disproportionately negatively impacted.

“They’re saying that our industry takes advantage of certain communities,” Michelina says. “The fact is, I live on the mesa and am surrounded by oil and gas development. I live next to eight wells. My husband and I are raising our two sons here. Our industry workers live here. So why would someone say that we don’t want to be good stewards of the environment? My industry is the most regulated in the county and we adhere to all the environmental standards that have been set forth locally, statewide, and federally for the economic impact.”

Michelina says that when there are fewer restrictions, domestic production is higher, which makes the cost of living lower in the very communities that are being called disproportionately impacted. “Poverty decreases when residents are provided affordable gasoline and natural gas,” Michelina says. “Ultimately, the availability and affordability of petroleum products affect the quality of health in communities, because when residents have to pay more for gas, they have less to spend on healthcare and healthy food choices. People don’t realize that oil and gas are commodities and we don’t set the price, like utility companies can do.” It’s supply and demand. With fewer regulations there is more supply, and with more supply, the price goes down.

Michelina points out that regulations without careful consideration can cause more damage than good by inhibiting growth, preventing innovation, and undermining sustainable development. “This inadvertently harms the people the regulations are supposed to protect and can raise the price of nearly every product we purchase.”

Michelina says the Energy Council benefits in many ways from being part of the Chamber. “It allows me to fulfill the mission of the Council, which is advocacy and education. It gives me a platform to fulfill our mission of education.” You can reach Michelina at (970) 769-2416 or email energycounciladlm@gmail.com. Learn more at www.energycouncil.org.

Meet a member of the YPODs: Lauren Powers

What do you do? I am an agent with Mutual of Omaha. I meet with people to help them plan for the best and prepare for the worst through avenues like retirement and life insurance. 

Why did you want to be a YPOD member? The YPODS have been very kind and welcoming and helped me become a part of my new community! I have learned a lot about the members and our local businesses. 

How do you like to spend your time? My partner and I have been having a wonderful time exploring our new town - especially all the fun restaurants! 

Want to join the YPODs? Find out more here.

Featured Chamber Diplomat: Michael Price



What is Your Business?  I’m a Branch Manager with Vectra Bank Durango. I work with consumer and commercial clients to help them obtain their financial goals through education and banking products while providing great service.

How long have you been a Diplomat? A little over a year

How long have you lived in Durango?  We have lived in Durango for almost 6 years and it was great to be back in the Four Corners area.

Tell us about your family (including pets): Julie is my wonderful wife of over 20 years and we have our puppy Midge that is 2 years old. If we’re not working, we’re either on a trail, camping, fishing, skiing, or some other outdoor activity.

What is your favorite part of being a DIP? Getting to meet so many great people in the Diplomat group as well as so many of the wonderful business owners that call Durango home.

Fun fact about you: Getting to meet so many great people in the Diplomat group as well as so many of the wonderful business owners that call Durango home.

Learn more about getting involved with the Diplomat Program here.

Upcoming Programs & Events!

Find more information here.

Oct. 4 at 5:15pm Ribbon Cutting at R1 Colorado Realty 125 Mercado, Ste 107

Oct. 7 Volunteer Day with LLP, DIPs, YPODs at Manna 9am-11am

Thurs. Oct. 12 8-10am Proposition HH: a ballot initiative that changes property taxes & what that means for the future of Colorado

Oct. 19 from 5-7pm Business After Hours at the Payroll Department – celebrating their 30th anniversary!

Oct. 25 from 11:45am-1:15pm Lunch & Learn: Using Canva to Create Graphics for Your Business

Nov. 1 5:15pm YPOD Financial Literacy Workshop Series – the Financial Side of Starting a Business 

Nov. 2 8:30-9:30am Get to Know the CEO with Jessica Matlock, CEO LPEA (free to all members)

Nov. 3 at 5:30pm YPOD Falliday Party

Nov. 9 11:30am Ask an Employment Lawyer HR Workshop

What’s Happening with our Chamber Members!

Find more information here.

Oct. 7 Fall Blaze

Oct. 7 Homebuyer Education Class with the HomesFund

Oct. 14 Chamber Day at FLC Football Homecoming

Oct. 31 Downtown Children’s Halloween



Do you want your program or event listed? It’s free through your member online portal. Questions, ask Hannah@durangobusiness.org or call (970) 247-0312 ext 2

Watch the latest Member Moment Video featuring Boys & Girls Club.

Find past Member Moment Videos here.

JOIN US IN CELEBRATING LEADERSHIP EXCELLENCE!!!

Your nomination could be the catalyst that propels a deserving leader to even greater heights. Mark your calendar to celebrate these businesses and individuals during the Durango Rocks Annual Awards Celebration on Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024!

Sept. Coffee Connections:

How to Maximize Leadership Potential with Mindfulness

FLC Professor Dr. Amoneeta shared how you can use mindfulness as a leadership practice, which in turn contributes to job satisfaction, growth, resilience and life enhancement. Thank you for sharing these great tips!

Thank You to our Partners that Made Shred Day a Success!

Many thanks to Three Springs, Alpine Bank, and Phoenix Recycling for partnering with the Durango Chamber to host this year’s Shred Day. This year’s beneficiary was the San Juan Mountains Association and Alpine Bank matched the donations they received on Shred Day.

Thank you to Ben Sorenson with Ascent Digital Marketing for offering tips on Creating Video in the Modern World!

Videos have become the ultimate tool for capturing attention and conveying messages effectively in today’s world. Ben shared valuable information on video marketing to create compelling video content. 

Sponsored by TBK Bank

Eggs & Issues Healthcare Forum

With more than 80 people in attendance, the Chamber’s Eggs & Issues delved into the challenges and opportunities we have with our healthcare system from a local business perspective. Many thanks to our speakers for sharing valuable information and continuing the dialog for the betterment of our community.

LLP Monthly Focus:

A Candid Conversation with Kerry Siggins, CEO of Stone Age in Durango.

By Stacy Reuille-Dupont, StudioB

In the ever-evolving world of leadership, one thing is clear: everyone has their unique style when it comes to leading teams. This month, I got to have a fascinating chat with ’08-’09 LLP grad Kerry Siggins who spilled the beans on her social style, how it shapes her leadership, and her new book The Ownership Handbook: A Handbook for Transforming Your Life and Leadership.



Expressive in Life, Driver at Work

Kerry identifies herself as a mix of Expressive and Driver. She leans towards being "Expressive" in her personal life, but when she's on the job, she shifts gears into "Driver" mode. This dynamic blend makes her a formidable force. At work, her focus is on setting a clear vision, ensuring everyone understands their role, and igniting enthusiasm among her team for company goals. Yet, Kerry acknowledges the potential drawbacks of her Driver-Expressive style, noting that she can sometimes move too quickly for certain team members. She's learned that slowing down and seeking input from different social styles, especially the amiable and analytical folks, is essential.

Ribbon Cutting Celebrations

Congratulations to Choice Athletics – Durango’s Premier Indoor Baseball & Softball Practice Center with batting cages & pitching areas, plus simulator for improving golf & just having fun bowling, and more!

Celebrating the recent Grand Opening of Three Rivers Title Company! Wishing you great success!

The Diplomats welcomed DWolf Designs – Fine Art & Custom Framing to the Chamber and congratulated Debbie on her new art gallery with custom frames made from reclaimed wood.

Pueblo Community College celebrated their new location with a recent ribbon cutting!

The Chamber Diplomats celebrated Glow to Go Durango business with a special ribbon cutting!

New Members

Durango Gourmet Popcorn

Nick Edelen

600 Main Ave., Ste. 110

Durango, CO 81301

website

Second Story Books

862 Main Avenue #205

Durango, CO 81301

Leah M. Gillaspy CPA

1003 Oak Drive

Durango, CO 81301

EsoTerra Ciderworks

Taylor Lennox Irwin

558 Main Ave.

Durango, CO 81301

www.esoterracider.com

BWD Construction LLC

Pat McNeil

301 N Pagosa Blvd, Unit B17

Pagosa Springs, CO 81147

website

Mountain Dough Baking Company

Kim Solecki

1537 Florida Rd #101

Durango, CO 81301

website

Cafe/Bakery

Animas Chocolate Company

Carley Snider

920 Main Ave

Durango, CO 81301

website

Renewed Members

{re}Love Consign & Design

3W Ranch

Animas Capital Management, Ltd.

Baird

Bighorn Consulting Engineers, Co.

Classique Builders

Columbine Group, LLC

Cryomedspa Wellness & Cryotherapy

Durango Botanic Gardens

Durango Montessori School

Grasshoppers Landscaping and

Lawn Service

Jaynes Corporation of Colorado

Kennebec Wealth Management

Movement Rx

Office Depot

Old Hundred Gold Mine Tour

Pace Property Inspections, LLC

Pet Haus

Pine Needle Mountaineering

Professional Women's Network of Durango

Sean Perry

Tailwind Nutrition

The Green House Durango

Thrive Chiropractic Studio

Twin Buttes of Durango

United Rentals

Water Information Program

Five a day keeps the doctor away

La Plata County Extension: Health Tip of the Month

by Nicole Clark, RDN, M.Ed.

September is fruit and vegetable month. Though arguably, every month (day?) is good for fruits and vegetables. Not one, but five servings of fruits and vegetables daily. Why? Because it’s good for you.

Of course, knowing something is good for us doesn’t necessarily provide a compelling reason to do it. You also need to enjoy it, it needs to be easy and available/accessible. Try one of these ideas to make five a day realistic.

Eat it because it tastes good

1. Consider texture. If you like hard and crunchy, choose fruits and vegetables such as apples, carrots and broccoli stems. If you like softer textures, choose peaches, sweet potatoes, or any canned produce.

2. Eat fruits and vegetables with other flavors you enjoy. For example, if you like BBQ, roast cauliflower with a little olive oil and sprinkle with dry BBQ seasoning.

3. Use sweet, salty and sour flavors to mask bitter flavors. Some vegetables can taste bitter. This is why vinaigrettes work well! Make your own with fresh citrus (lemon, orange or grapefruit) or mild vinegar (Champagne, white wine, or apple cider vinegar), (olive) oil, and a pinch of salt and sugar.

4. Repeated exposure to new fruits and vegetables. Even for adults.

Read more

Surge in U.S. Seniors Applying for Entry-Level Positions

Most Companies Would Rather Hire Older Workers Than Younger Generation

Latest Results from The Harris Poll

U.S. hiring managers are on the hunt for full-time talent, and many (79%) report a rising tide of older workers vying for entry-level roles compared to three years ago.

This is according to a recent survey from The Harris Poll commissioned by Express Employment Professionals.

Furthermore, 60% of these hiring managers express a preference for hiring older candidates over younger ones for entry-level positions, highlighting a shift in perceptions about experience and maturity.

For the overall U.S. labor market, hiring managers say their sights are set on full-time talent acquisition, encompassing both hourly (55%) and salaried (51%) employees. Most commonly, companies are looking to hire for entry-level (53%, down from 63% in late 2022) and mid-level (52%, down from 58% in late 2022).

Job seekers signal a strong inclination towards full-time employment, with more than 4 in 5 (82%) indicating their willingness to accept such positions. The enthusiasm for part-time (33%) and contract/freelance (23%) roles is notably lower.

Applicants are casting a wide net in their job searches, with a significant portion (46%) pursuing mid-level positions. A substantial number are also applying for individual contributor (32%), senior-level (30%) and entry-level (27%) roles, showcasing a diverse array of career aspirations.

When it comes to applying for positions, a resounding 83% of job seekers believe it's perfectly acceptable to apply for roles they may be overqualified for, as long as they want it.

In today's competitive job market, developing a diverse set of skills is key for job seekers to be noticed by hiring managers, according to Express Employment International CEO Bill Stoller.

“Beyond the qualifications listed on resumes, cultivating soft skills such as effective communication, adaptability and teamwork, as well as technical proficiencies, demonstrates the ability to thrive in dynamic work environments,” he added.

Survey Methodology 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

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