Durango Rocks Awards Celebration

Congratulations 2023 Award Recipients!

Diplomat of the​Year

Recipient: Nora Stafford

Barbara Conrad Leadership Award

Recipient: Natambu Obelton

Young Professional of the Year

Recipient: Rebekah Click

Citizen of the Year
​recipient: Dr. Joseph Murphy
selected by the Awards Committee​
Dr. Joseph Murphy dedicated 36 years to serving as a physician in Durango. His contributions to accessible healthcare and community services are immeasurable. In addition to being a physician, he served as medical director for FLC’s Health Center, FLC’s Athletic medical team physician, and president of the Medical Staff at Mercy Hospital. In retirement, he continues his community engagement through various health initiatives, including Covid education program and the La Plata Healthcare Improvement Coalition, acting as a key resource.

Morley Ballantine Women’s Leadership Award
​recipient:  LaTitia Taylor, Southern Ute Indian Tribe
Sponsored by: Morehart Murphy Regional Auto Center and selected by past
​Morley Ballantine Award Recipients ​
​Latitia Taylor has led the Southern Ute Tribe’s educational programs for 24 years that now benefit tribal members of all ages, from toddlers to elders. A Montessori academy, a Youth Employment Summer Program, a Youth Council that mirrors the governmental Council, GED classes, dual enrollment in college for high schoolers, and a robust scholarship program-- these all thrive under Latitia’s capable and compassionate guidance.

Mentees of LaTitia Taylor now hold leadership positions in the Red Willow Growth Fund, at NASA, and the University of Colorado Boulder’s Admissions program. She models healthy behavior for young men as a coach at Ignacio Middle School and serves on numerous college advisory boards as well as being appointed to the United States Strategic Plan for STEM Education.  She also lends the essential perspective of a Native person in this field. She helped obtain two $1 million grants to revitalize the Ute language and help with drought relief for ranchers.

Bill Mashaw Volunteer of the Year
​recipient:  Fred Riedinger
selected by Awards Committee
This year’s recipient, Fred Riedinger, is a retired U.S. Coast Guard chief warrant officer and Vietnam Veteran who has seamlessly transitioned from serving his country to serving the Durango community.  Whether it’s volunteering at V.F.W. events, marching proudly with the color guard at high school games, or lending a helping hand to veterans, he’s always at the forefront of giving back.  As the elected post commander of V.F.W. Post 4301, he was instrumental in revitalizing the post and ensuring that our veterans are honored and supported. 

Fred has also been a driving force behind improving local healthcare access for veterans, ensuring they receive the care they deserve in Durango, rather than driving hundreds of miles to Albuquerque.  He also participates in military honors during veterans’ funerals, where he shows compassion and respect.  We thank Fred for his service to our country and our community!

Entrepreneur of the Year, recipient:  Elizabeth Philbrick, EsoTerra Ciderwork
selected by Awards Committee
Elizabeth Philbrick has a passion for nature and design and ventured into the world of landscape architecture where she also met her husband and partner in business.   Together they launched EsoTerra Ciderworks, a cidery in Dolores during the pandemic, and showed resilience and innovation. 
Next, they expanded EsoTerra and opened a tasting room and catering company on Main Avenue in downtown Durango.  They are currently working towards expanding to become Durango’s first Estate Winery with 70 acres of vines, orchards, botanical gardens, and a tasting room.

Outstanding Contribution to the Community, recipient: Marc & Jane Katz
selected by Awards Selection Committee
From their historic $10.4 million gift to the business school at Fort Lewis College, which now bears the esteemed name of the Katz School of Business, to their revolutionary vision for Durango Mesa Park, spanning 1,850 acres for community recreation and economic vitality. Their contributions are nothing short of extraordinary.

They also preserved the Nordic Center land in north La Plata County, contributed to Animas High School, and provided funds to the community through the Community Foundation of Southwest Colorado. This is just a glimpse of the myriad of ways that the Katz family tirelessly champions the betterment of Durango for all. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Marc & Jane Katz for their enduring support and positive impacts on the Durango community throughout the years!

Business of the Year
recipient: Durango Nursery & Supply
selected by the Awards Committee
For more than 24 years, Durango Nursery and Supply fosters long-term relationships with customers and suppliers and is a local hub for botanical education and learning. The Nursery actively supports numerous nonprofits and community initiatives. Their dedication to employee well-being and development sets them apart, offering competitive benefits and a nurturing work environment.

Amidst challenges like the Gold King Mine spill and COVID, Durango Nursery exemplified adaptability with a comprehensive range of landscaping materials and expert guidance. Durango Nursery stands as a cornerstone of the community, enriching Durango’s landscape and fostering a culture of sustainability and beauty.

Small Business of the Year
recipient: Desert Sun Coffee Roasters
selected by the Awards Committee
Desert Sun Coffee Roasters is an organic and fair-trade coffee roaster with an emphasis on sustainability. Their mission is to support economic independence for coffee farmers, organic growing, living wages, and a work/life balance for their Desert Sun team.  

In 2020, Desert Sun received the Sustainability Award in the Business Model category from the Specialty Coffee Association. In alignment with its mission, Desert Sun is a member-owner of Cooperative Coffees, the sole roaster-owned coffee-importing cooperative in North America. This enables them to engage in direct negotiations with farmers and foster close relationships with those who grow their coffee.

In 2023, Desert Sun achieved a platinum-level green business certification from Four Core. Their ongoing commitment to enhancing sustainability and supporting communities, both locally and for their farmers, underscores their steadfast dedication.

Spirit of Durango Award
recipient: Happy Pappy’s Pizza and Wings
selected by the Chamber Diplomats
Mark Anderson, fondly known as Pappy, launched his Durango pizza shop amid the onset of the pandemic after selling his 15-year-old trucking company.  Undeterred by the challenges, he outfitted his Durango establishment with recipes passed down in his family for 40 years.  Beyond mere business expansion, Pappy prioritized community support and youth empowerment.

Happy Pappy’s has earned acclaim for its generosity, kindness, and steadfast community backing.  What distinguishes Happy Pappy’s isn’t just their delicious food, but also their profound impact on Durango’s youth.  Pappy extends his generosity to his employees, fostering a family-like atmosphere.

From regular contributions to Manna Soup Kitchen and the Boys and Girls Club to sponsoring high school football games and FLC athletics, Happy Pappy’s is ingrained in the fabric of Durango’s community.  Serving as a father figure to many, Mark Anderson’s enthusiasm through Happy Pappy’s is well known and epitomizes the essence of the Spirit of Durango Award.

Non-Profit of the Year, recipient: La Plata County Economic Development Alliance
selected by Awards Committee
The La Plata County Economic Development Alliance is an innovative organization dedicated to addressing one of the community’s most pressing issues in a post-pandemic economy. Their focus on fostering public-private partnerships has propelled initiatives in workforce housing, workforce development, and business expansion.

Recently, they initiated a Catalyst Fund to support pre-development initiatives in workforce housing and reestablished the Regional Housing Alliance to secure funding and bolster programming. Additionally, they’ve provided support to the City and County’s efforts to annex La Posta Road aims to generate a light industrial hub and housing development.

Over the past four years, the Alliance has witnessed a remarkable 500 percent growth in revenues, largely attributed to successful grant acquisition. Notably, they secured a substantial three-year $1.2 million workforce development grant, partnering with FLC to pioneer micro-certification programs. In total, their efforts have injected approximately $3 million in grants and funding into the community within the last 18 months.

Celebrating Our Exceptional Finalists & Their Remarkable Achievements

While we sincerely wish we could extend awards to many others, we are immensely grateful for the opportunity to recognize our finalists.  They have demonstrated exceptional perseverance and excellence, standing out among a competitive field of nominees.  We extend our heartfelt appreciation to them for their outstanding contributions and commendable achievements!  ​

2023 Business of the Year Finalists

The Leavitt Insurance Group focuses on providing knowledgeable customer service and being a trusted resource for insurance needs, from employee benefits to personal and small business commercial insurance.  The Leavitt Group’s community involvement extends far and wide, sponsoring various nonprofit events and initiatives, including FLC and DHS athletics, the Boys & Girls Club, Manna Soup Kitchen, and charitable golf tournaments.  Their collaborative efforts and innovative approach set them apart, showcasing a genuine commitment to their clients and the community.  ​
With a rich 40-year history, Star Liquors offers a diverse selection of wines, spirits and beer, new products, and delivery services, and all are complemented by knowledgeable and friendly staff.  Star Liquors’ key to success resides in fostering a positive workplace culture and offering competitive wages and benefits, and staff training, ensuring exceptional expertise and customer service. Their dedication to community support is shown through sponsorships of music, animal rescues, supporting Big Brothers, Big Sisters,  and other local causes, including their very own, Carmine Classic Golf Tournament.  Additionally, their recognition as a top retailer by industry publications and their involvement in statewide organizations highlight their exceptional leadership in the industry.  With a steadfast commitment to their customers, the community, and their employees, Star Liquors shines brightly as an outstanding business leader!

2023 Small Business of the Year Finalists

Originally founded in 2018, Create Art & Tea owner Caprice Fox has a passion for both art and tea, and is a communal hub hosting art exhibitions, classes, and weekend high tea gatherings.  Initiated in 2023 by Create Art and Tea, the Art Guild of Create Durango encompasses elevating artist visibility, providing opportunities to shape the local art landscape, and securing resources for market expansion and artist support. Create Art and Tea has transcended its initial role as a charming store and community gathering place, actively fostering a platform for artistic expression and amplifying the cultural vibrancy of Durango.
Farm to Fingers produces ethically sourced and hand-crafted charcuterie boards made of local produce and local products.  Established in September of 2021, this woman-owned business defied the odds as she developed a booming business amidst the pandemic.  Since then, Farm to Fingers has grown into a local favorite for catering weddings, events, and gatherings. Farm to Fingers sets itself apart with its innovative commitment to collaborating with local farmers and small businesses, highlighting ethically sourced goods and products. 

2023 Non-Profit of the Year Finalists​

As Southwest Colorado’s STEAM engine for young minds, the Powerhouse Science Center is dedicated to fostering a love of learning, engaging critical thinking skills, and ensuring that science and discovery are available to everyone.  In 2011, The Powerhouse opened as a science museum and reinvigorated the well-known building and riverfront area in Durango. The Powerhouse partners with Durango School District 9 R, Fort Lewis College, and San Juan Boards of Cooperative Educational Services to provide programming such as the Regional Science Fair. They have increased enrollment in their summer camp programs to over 800 students this past year. They have awarded over $50,000 in needs-based scholarships and continue to make a lasting impact on young minds and our community at large.
Snowdown Durango’s ultimate winter festival has been spreading cheer in a variety of costumes for more than four decades. From its humble beginnings in 1979, Snowdown has been lighting up the darkest winter nights with a dazzling array of events and activities. giving our community’s economy a much-needed boost during the slower season.  With nearly 200 events packed into a 10-day festival, Snowdown is like a turbocharged engine for local businesses.  A group of dedicated volunteers work tirelessly behind the scenes to make Snowdown a great success.  Their enthusiasm and passion infuse every aspect of this annual event with a sense of joy, community, and amusement! ​

2023 Spirit of Durango Finalists

La Plata Electric Association’s unique model of being an electric cooperative prioritizes member benefits and is dedicated to supporting the community beyond its core operations.  Through sponsorship and grant programs, LPEA helps countless nonprofit organizations, spanning from STEM education to youth athletics and community events, fostering a culture of growth and development.   LPEA values its employees, offering a range of benefits and programs to enhance their well-being and satisfaction, including health care, flexible work hours, and access to wellness resources.  Collaborating extensively with local businesses, organizations, and first responders, LPEA actively contributes to the economic, social and environmental fabric of Durango.  LPEA continues to shape the future as a trusted community partner, ensuring reliable electricity, fostering innovation, and driving excellence as a member-owned cooperative.
Visit Durango features contagious energy, resourcefulness, and unparalleled commitment to making Durango a welcoming and vibrant community for all.  Funded through the La Plata County and City of Durango’s Lodgers Tax Fund, Visit Durango not only promotes local events and businesses but also provides invaluable marketing support and counseling to businesses and nonprofits alike.  Visit Durango’s team members serve on numerous boards and tirelessly volunteer their time to support local initiatives.  From organizing engaging events like Durango Restaurant Week and Spoketober, to championing sustainable tourism practices, Visit Durango is not just a tourism marketing organization.  It embodies Durango’s character and economy. ​
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