So, your muscles are aching, your bones are cracking like a box of Rice Krispies, and there is even a pop and a snap here or there, thrown in for good measure. You are exhausted, and you need help. Actually, what you need is a really good massage.
Tips for Choosing the Right Massage Therapist for You What is a massage therapist? Northwestern Health Science University defines it as "Massage therapy is manual manipulation of soft body tissues (muscle, connective tissue, tendons and ligaments) to enhance a person's health and well-being". Shop Around – Don't just choose the first massage therapist that you see on the internet. Visit a few therapists to review service offerings, availability and pricing before choosing one. Be High Maintenance – Respectfully request what you want. If the therapist can not or will not meet your needs, move along. This one tip will save you so much time and money. Look For Credentials – What certifications does this person have? A fly-by-night therapist or someone without experience and training probably won't have any credentials hanging on his or her wall. Gender Preferences – It's not sexist to want a certain gender to perform massage therapy services. Massage therapy is supposed to be a relaxing experience. If you are not comfortable with the person intimately touching your body, you won't be relaxed and the entire experience will be awkward. Know the Type of Massage You Are Going to Receive – There are many different types of massages. There are known as modalities. Ask before you leap. If you're unsure of the differences between certain types of massage, ask the professional to explain them to you. Availability – When are you available to get massages? Are you a busy professional who works 60 hours a week and in need of evening hours? Or, do you run your business from home and need a traveling massage therapist? Review hours of availability and whether a premium is charged for in-home or off-hour services. Ultimately, choose a massage therapist you're comfortable with and one who takes time to put your needs first. CHAMBER MEMBERS MASSAGE THERAPISTS: WOODHOUSE DAY SPA SPAAAH SHOP AND DAY SPA TRIMBLE SPA AND NATURAL HOT SPRING LIFECYCLE THERAPEUTICS MASSAGE THERAPY
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If you're helping your child save and prepare for college, or considering going back yourself, you may find yourself asking the question: is it really worth it? After all, the days of a guaranteed job with your diploma are gone, and college is exponentially more expensive than it used to be. These factors combine to make people considering getting a college degree wonder if potential return is worth the investment.
The Short Answer: Yes, It Is Of course, higher isn't for everyone, but as Forbes contributor Troy Onink claims, college is still worth the money. This claim comes with a caveat, which is, some majors are definitely more worthwhile than others. That's why we're going to talk about fields of study that increase the return on investment (ROI) for prospective students. College has never been less affordable, but there are degree paths that will pay off more than others when it's all said and done. Disclaimer: You Still Have to Work Hard Take this list with a grain of salt, because no one is guaranteed to be more successful than anyone else simply because they chose to study a certain area. With that in mind, these are the majors that tend to lead to the biggest paydays (without going to graduate school for an advanced degree). Engineering Notice we didn't specify any specific type of engineering? That's because according to a Glassdoor study, they're all similarly high-paying, and it doesn't really matter if you're studying chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, or any of the other areas. Computer Science and IT Although the technical fields have become more popular in recent years, entry-level jobs in those fields are some of the highest paying available. For other majors looking to add a skill to their resume, it's never a bad idea to learn how to code. Statistics and Math The math fields are highly sought after, mainly because so few people are interested and/or able to master the skills that these fields develop. Math degree programs tend to be some of the smallest at any college. Sciences: Biology, Biotech, Physics, etc. These are more fields of a highly technical nature, meaning that grads in these fields have a lot more demanded of them than other areas. Business: Accounting, Finance, etc. Because there are so many careers that demand basic business skills, business grads end up employed quickly after college and have access to more high-paying jobs. If your child/you are considering a major not on this list, don't feel discouraged. The list doesn't take into account other major factors, such as the actual college in question, potential internships, and academic achievement. The basic idea to take away from this post is that: sure, what you study in college matters in terms of your employment and pay after college, but only without context. If you work hard, the ROI of going to college is what you make it. If you're involved in the real estate market as an investor, agent, buyer, or seller, you likely already know that this is one industry that's in love with the latest technologies. From the latest apps to innovations in customer service, tech innovations have dramatically changed how Realtors do business.
Here's our picks for the top 7 tech trends for real estate agents in our community: 1. Virtual Reality Virtual Reality, or VR, gives agents the power to create virtual tours of the properties they have for sale, giving prospective buyers an immersive experience that's second only to being there in person. While VR technology is still a bit pricey for the average Realtor, experts predict this growing tech trend will be worth $2.6B by 2025. Sotheby's International Realty already uses VR to market high-end residential properties both here in the United States and abroad. 2. Augmented Reality We all know that prospective home buyers want to picture what their furniture would look like in their new home, right? Thanks to Augmented Reality (AR) technologies, you can now superimpose a specific piece of furniture, a fixture, or accessory into any room, making it easy to see what a space could look like with some personal touches. 3. Smart Home Technologies With the wide-spread adoption of 'smart', internet-connected devices like smart thermostats, smart alarms, and smart locks, look for old technologies like real estate lock boxes to disappear in favor of digital access codes and security apps. 4. Increased Mobile Growth Use of internet-enabled mobile devices like smartphones and tablets continues to rise in the United States and beyond. According to the National Association of Realtors, nearly 60 percent of all residential buyers found their home through a search on their mobile device, which is why a mobile-friendly website is a must-have for every real estate agent. 5. Drone Photography Drones give Realtors the power to take impressive high-definition photos and videos from heights of properties that are available for sale or lease. Look for more listings to include images that deliver a birds-eye view that was previously only available by hiring a specialized aerial photographer. 6. Social Media Engagement Social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram provide real estate agents with powerful tools they can use to market their business, connect with clients, and establish themselves as a local subject matter expert in our community. And if you think managing all those online accounts is simply too time consuming, social media management platforms like Hootsuite and Agorapulse are designed to automate content delivery, track mentions and shares, and stamp out online trolls. 7. Chat Bots Even the most energetic real estate agent needs to take a break - that's why chat bots - those little pop-up boxes are quickly become a feature on many brokerage websites. Also known as virtual assistants, chat bots provide personable, 24/7 customer service that can help capture leads and even answer basic questions - perfect for all those late-night online home shoppers. Have ever wondered about the difference between a hotel and motel? We have, too! We did some poking around and found 8 key differences.
Whether you've recently relocated, you're dissatisfied with the care you've received at your current dentist, or you've just never gotten around to finding one, choosing the right dentist can feel overwhelming. Before you get your floss in a wad, take a look at our tips for choosing a great dentist.
Check Your Insurance If you have dental insurance, then finding out which dentists are in your network should be your first order of business. Most insurance companies provide this information on their website. If you can't locate this information, then a quick call to your provider will give you the information you need. This will narrow your search considerably, making it easier to quickly find a dentist. Ask for Recommendations Once you've narrowed your search, seek out recommendations. If you're searching for a dentist because you've relocated, then your current dentist may be able to recommend a dentist that is near your new home. If you know people in the area, then ask around; oftentimes, you'll hear the names of one or two dentist offices that people have had consistently good experiences with. Look at Treatments Offered Some dentists also have training in orthodontics, while others specialize in oral and maxillofacial surgery. Other dentists have received extra training beyond dentals school to provide pediatric care, and still others specialize in periodontics. Consider the unique needs that you and the members of your household have, and look for a dentist that offers the specialized care that you need. Consider the Location and Office Hours No matter how wonderful the dentist is, if they're located 45 minutes away from your home or workplace, then keeping regular appointments will be a challenge. The same goes for office hours. If the dentist you choose is only open three days a week and their hours of operation are also the hours that you will be at work, then you'll have a difficult time keeping regularly scheduled visits. Look for a dentist that is conveniently located and has office hours that will accommodate your busy schedule. Personal Comfort One of the primary things to consider when you choose a dentist is how comfortable you feel with that person. Do you feel free to talk about your symptoms and ask questions? Do you feel as though the dentist rushes through your check-ups rather than taking time to hear and understand your concerns? If you are receiving a procedure like a filling or a root canal, do you feel comfortable expressing your anxiety or asking for more pain medicine? While some discomfort with certain procedures may be inevitable, your dentist should provide attentive and empathetic care. Choosing a dentist can feel like a daunting task, but by taking these things into consideration, you can pick one that will fit your needs and lifestyle. When's the last time you thought about lighting at your shop, office, or retail outlet?
Lighting can have a big impact on your business - it affects everything from how your products are perceived by your customers to the safety and security of your staff members and clients. Lighting can also represent a significant portion of your electricity costs, which is why it's a good idea to re-assess whether or not your current lighting system is really meeting your requirements. Increase The Curb Appeal Of Your Business If you've ever approached a dimly-lit bar, a shop with poor exterior lighting, or an office that's located down a dark hallway, you already know that lighting can play a critical role in how your customers perceive you and your company. A warm, well-lit parking lot lets your visitors know that you're open for business, while bright signage and window displays draw people in to your building. Just like with your home, the right outdoor lighting goes a long way towards increasing the curb appeal of your company. Improve Safety and Security With Better Business Lighting Keeping yourself, your clients, and your staff members safe is another important consideration when operating a business. Well-placed, reliable lighting both inside and outside of your building is one of the most affordable, effective tools you can use to deter crime, decrease accidents, and create a safer environment for everyone. Increase ADA Compliance and Accessibility The National Federation of the Blind estimates that close to 9 million Americans are visually impaired, and approximately 1.3 million more are legally blind. Studies also show that thanks to the aging population, these numbers are expected to double over the next 30 years. Lighting plays an important role in making your business more accessible to people living with visual impairments - the right lights help to reduce the risk of injuries, increase traffic to your business, and create a barrier-free environment. Be aware that in some cases, brighter lights aren't necessarily better for people living with conditions that impact their vision, and in fact, some overly-bright lights can actually cause vision loss. Energy-Efficient LED Lighting Options With the advent of light emitting diodes, better known as LEDs, it's now possible to create a completely customized lighting installation that delivers exceptional illumination without spiking your utility bills. When compared to traditional incandescent (a.k.a. 'Edison-style') lighting, LEDs "use at least 75% less energy, and last 25 times longer" according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Better yet, commercial-quality LEDs have an average bulb life of 25,000 hours and they emit significantly less heat than other types of lighting like halogen and fluorescent, meaning that LEDs have the potential to save you on installation and air conditioning costs as well. And because LED lights come in a wide array of colors that can be changed with a touch of a button, LEDs let you illuminate everything from counter tops to cars and bathroom mirrors with colorful lights that reflect your brand. When it comes to improving the curb appeal of your business, landscaping makes all the difference. Trees provide natural beauty, comfortable shade, and a sense of tranquility, creating a more welcoming environment for customers and employees alike.
In the long run, trees are a sensible low-cost investment that provides benefits for decades to come; that is, if they're cared for properly. Replacing a single tree can cost hundreds of dollars, so it's important to know how to properly care for the trees on your property. Choose the Right Trees for Your Property Numerous common tree problems can be avoided by taking the time to do your research and make sure that you choose the right trees for your business's property in the first place. Consider how tall and wide a tree will be when it's mature, whether it will drop its leaves in the winter, and whether its shape will suit your space. Also consider the root system. Some trees have roots that go deep into the ground, while others have invasive roots that spread out close to the surface of the ground, potentially posing a tripping hazard for customers or even damaging sidewalks. Taking the time to research the best trees for your climate and the needs and limitations of your property can help to ensure that you make the best choice. Know the Signs of Disease While most trees are naturally resistant to disease and pests, you will still want to regularly observe your trees so you can catch problems as early as possible. Yellowing or wilting leaves, limited growth, and fungus are a few of the problems that you should keep an eye out for. Know what your tree looks like when it's healthy, and if you observe any changes, call a local arborist to help you consider solutions. Take Simple Precautions Compared to flowers and shrubs, trees are relatively low maintenance. However, there are a few simple precautions that you can take to ensure that they last a lifetime. Laying fresh mulch every year will protect the tree from over-fertilizing and over-watering. Mulch should be between two and three inches thick. When laying it, ensure that it is kept away from the tree's bark, and don't forget to remove the old mulch before putting on the fresh layer. Most trees require very minimal pruning. In fact, because pruning causes damage from which the tree must heal, it can actually result in stunted growth. In most cases, the only time you will need to prune is when you see a dead limb or a branch that has cracked during a strong storm. Ensure that dead or damaged limbs are safely cut away to prevent them from falling and damaging your property or bringing harm to a client or employee. Know When to Leave Them Alone Most trees grow beautifully without any human intervention; just look at the region's beautiful parks. If you've selected a hardy tree that is suitable for the climate and has a size, shape, and root system that will be accommodated by your space, and you've ensured that it was properly planted, then in all likelihood, very little maintenance will be required. Trees bring natural beauty to any business, and by taking the time to understand how to keep your trees healthy, you can ensure that they'll be around for years to come. Google is the world's biggest, and most valuable search engine (it's currently valued at approximately $90 billion USD), and it's earned the bulk of its profits from its proprietary online advertising service, Google AdWords.
Google makes billions of dollars each year selling customized advertising that's targeted through their complex search engine algorithms which match internet users with ads that promote products and services they're searching for. AdWords operates on a bidding system - that means advertisers compete against each other to secure the exact placement of their ads on search engine results pages (SERPs), and even whether or not their ads will appear at all. The more prominently and frequently an advertisement is displayed, the more conversions that ad will achieve for the business - that's what drives up the cost of keywords. According to WordStream, as of December, 2017, these were the top 20 most expensive keywords in Google AdWords Advertising: Business Services - $58.64 Bail Bonds - $58.48 Casino - $55.48 Lawyer - $54.86 Asset Management - $49.86 Insurance - $48.41 Cash Services and Payday Loans - $48.18 Cleanup and Restoration Services - $47.61 Degree - $47.61 Medical Coding Services - $46.84 Rehab - $46.14 Psychic - $43.78 Timeshare - $42.13 HVAC Software - $41.24 Business Software - $41.12 Medical Needs - $40.73 Loans - $40.69 Plumber - $39.19 Termites - $38.88 Pest Control - $38.84 While the list of most-expensive keywords on Google search tends to shift slightly each year, in general the focus of the keywords is around solving urgent problems or needs. For example, if someone is searching for a 'bail bond', chances are good they're looking for help right away - that means they'll be inclined to choose the first advertiser that pops up on their Google search results page. Every business goes through similar stages, no matter which industry it operates in. Knowing what stage your company is in can help guide you in focusing your efforts on the right activities for your current situation. Here's an overview of the primary stages of any business.
Stage 1: Development This stage actually takes place before your business even becomes a business. In this phase, you'll be developing your products or services, finding suppliers and other service providers, and establishing the goals for your company. Take the time to do ample research on the market you intend to enter so that you can set yourself up for success right from the start. Stage 2: Startup Once you have completed the planning process, it's time to launch your business. This is the riskiest phase for any company in any industry. You'll need to keep close watch on all company activities to ensure that your team is working on the most critical tasks in this delicate stage. It is also important to be flexible during this period as you gain feedback from your earliest customers. Don't be afraid to tweak your offerings to better meet the needs of your customers. Stage 3: Establishment By this point, your business should have a solid customer base and continue to bring in new customers. Your products and services should have reached their peak at this time as well. Your company's cash flow should cover your ongoing expenses, and you should be able to see a bit of extra money to cover the expenses related to future growth. Stage 4: Expansion Now is the time to start really pushing to grow your business. Draw on your existing customer base for referrals to keep growing your company. This phase is also the ideal time to think about adding new products or services to your arsenal. Use customer feedback to guide you in the best areas for your company to grow. Don't forget about the importance of delegating once you reach this phase. Your team can likely handle many of the daily tasks you complete yourself, freeing you up to focus more on growing your enterprise. Stage 5: Maturity In the maturity stage, you are running a successful business with stable income and high-quality products or services. Your customers are happy with your offerings, and your team is more than capable of handling their work load. At this point, you can keep doing what you are doing, sitting back to watch the profits roll in. You also have the option of selling your company. With this route, you can obtain a large windfall of cash and relieve yourself of the ongoing duties of running your business so that you can shift your focus to your next endeavor. Although every business is unique, the stages that it will go through are common across all industries. It is important to know where your company falls in this hierarchy so that you know which tasks are most deserving of your time. The better prepared you are for each stage, the easier it will be to progress to the next level. Lower Back Pain: Did You Know?
A study by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, School of Medicine estimated that over 80 percent of Americans will experience an episode of lower back pain (LBP), over the course of their lifetimes. An estimated 31 million Americans are affected by lower back pain (LBP) at any given time. The American Chiropractic Association notes the following: Low back pain (LBP) is the single leading cause of disability worldwide. Outnumbered only by upper-respiratory Infections, back pain is the leading cause of missing work. the average cost of a back injury related workers comp claim can be $40,000 - $80,000 per employee. The National Center for Biotechnology Information estimates that the loss of productivity, (Hours of work lost, days of work missed and lower wages combined) is over 300 million dollars a year. When the costs of medical care for lower back pain (LBP) is added, the total annual cost rises to over 500 million dollars per annum. In addition, the incidence of chronic lower back pain (LBP) is a major contributor to the opioid crisis, in America. The above statistics are shocking and the bottom line is that lower back pain (LBP) affects all businesses. The Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce would like to offer some tips on how to choose a chiropractor. How to Choose A Chiropractor: A Few Good Tips Choosing to use a chiropractor, much like choosing a primary care physician, it's a personal and practical decision. If an employee chooses to make use of a chiropractor, here is a little advice. Do a Little Research Before Making a Final Choice. Know who your doctor is, and what their credentials experience is. Take a little time check reviews. A quick online search for reviews could save you time, money and frustration. A good chiropractor should be accredited by independent and peer reviewed organizations. The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) is one the largest such groups in America. Get It for Free. Just like a lawyer, most chiropractors offer a free consultation to discuss your injury and pain, as well as to answer any questions, including future costs. Know What Your Insurance Will Pay For. You should absolutely know what your insurance plan will pay for Additional costs will come out of your pocket! Should the time come when one of your employees is the next person to suffer lower back pain (LBP), you will now be prepared to offer them some advice. The Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce hopes to encourage business owners to be proactive with their employees and thus reduce potential costs. CHAMBER MEMBERS/CHIROPRACTIC ATLAS SPECIFIC PATHFINDER CHIROPRACTIC THRIVE CHIROPRACTIC |
The Durango Chamber of Commerce
The Durango Chamber of Commerce is a membership-based organization that promotes and supports the local business community through communication, advocacy, education, leadership and financial viability. Archives
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