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 five to seven 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 (Dec. 1) 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 Feb. 29. 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!
Jack Llewellyn is executive director of the Durango Chamber of Commerce. Contact him at jack@durangobusiness.org.
