Recently, the Heart of the Rockies Chamber of Commerce had the pleasure of honoring Eric Burns, owner and operator of The Crossroads, as the December Business of the Month.
Eric’s peers recognize that his patience, talent, and joy in mentoring his team are key to his success. If you’ve dined at The Crossroads, you may have noticed Eric’s passion for music, particularly “jam bands,” known for their creative improvisation. This mindset has also helped Eric design and perfect his unique menu.
Eric began his culinary journey at 17, cooking for the Army by 18, and by 28, had mentored under a French chef. Mentorship is central to Eric’s approach, as shown by one standout employee who worked with him from his sophomore year until he graduated and joined the Air Force. This employee’s mom still visits regularly to enjoy those popular burgers and fries!
Sourcing locally is a priority for The Crossroads, with 75% of the menus ingredients coming from within 100 miles of Salida. Eric values the support of the community and gives back by sourcing the freshest ingredients possible, supporting local neighbors, and using compostable single-use plastics.
Eric also generously donates to silent auctions and supports the local music scene, earning a reputation for his “work hard, play hard” philosophy, which draws both new and repeat customers alike.
Located at 142 W. Rainbow Blvd., The Crossroads recently expanded, offering ample seating both indoors and outdoors.
If you would like to see the complete history for Business of the Month, please call the Heart of the Rockies Chamber of Commerce at (719) 539-2068.
Salida Chamber Ribbon Cuttings RECAP: December 2024
Get to know the new businesses we’re honored to welcome as chamber members this month. Don’t hesitate to reach out and say hello. After all, connection, community and collaboration are what membership in the Salida Chamber of Commerce is all about!
The Heart of the Rockies Chamber of Commerce proudly welcomed Ascent Eye Care to its membership with a ribbon-cutting ceremony!
Located in beautiful Salida, Colorado, Ascent Eye Care is a full-service optometry practice dedicated to serving the Upper Arkansas Valley and surrounding communities. Their mission is to deliver the highest quality eye care in a warm and welcoming environment, tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
With a team of experienced professionals, Ascent Eye Care offers personalized solutions to help you achieve your best vision and eye health.
Their comprehensive services include Eye Health & Vision Care, offering comprehensive eye exams, contact lenses (including specialty lenses), and both prescription and non-prescription eyewear. They also provide Advanced Treatments, such as dry eye care, myopia management, scleral contact lenses, and minor surgical and laser procedures. Additionally, their Specialized Care encompasses diabetic-related eye exams, glaucoma and macular degeneration management, LASIK co-management, surgical post-operative care, and emergency eye care.
Call 719-539-3581 today to schedule your appointment with Ascent Eye Care today.
Quarterly Nonprofit Recognition: Salida Community Center
In Chaffee County, there is an organization devoted to building a stronger, more unified society. The Salida Community Center has been honored as the Heart of the Rockies Chamber of Commerce Nonprofit of the Quarter, celebrating its dedicated commitment to humbly serving our community.
The Salida Community Center’s mission is to promote an environment of support and advocacy to adults by fostering opportunities for fellowship, recreation, health and wellness, life-long learning and partnering with other community organizations.
The Salida Community Center is dedicated to addressing the needs of the broader community and those facing hardship. Among its key programs are the CSFP-Senior Food Program, which serves 150 seniors each month, and the TEFAP-Emergency Food Program, providing essential groceries to over 900 low-income individuals, families, and seniors monthly. The Center also runs a backpack program that supplies students with food, and a family support initiative that offers necessities like shampoo, soap, and deodorant.
Beyond these services, the Salida Community Center provides a conveniently located and affordable meeting space for local nonprofits and other groups. The SCC is responsible for the local Flag Program which places flags in town over six holidays. It also hosts some of Salida’s cherished annual events, including the Easter Egg Hunt, Pancake Breakfast, Bingo for Seniors, and Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners.
The Thanksgiving dinner is scheduled for November 28th, and the Christmas dinner on December 25th. Both events will run from 11:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m. Last year, the Salida Community Center proudly served approximately 900 Thanksgiving meals, with over 400 deliveries to those in need, and over 600 meals for Christmas, including over 300 which were delivered. The traditional holiday menu will feature turkey, ham, dressing, and all the trimmings. These meals are free for all area residents and visitors. For those unable to come to the center, the SCC offers meal deliveries within a five-mile radius of Salida.
The Salida Community Center is funded entirely through grants and donations, with all work done by dedicated, unpaid volunteers. They serve because they see the need, value and sense of unity that comes from helping others. The Salida Community Center believes in the possibility of a brighter future. To learn more about their mission or to find out how you can get involved, contact the SCC at (719) 539-3351.
Member Monthly Highlights
All business information and articles are located under the Chamber News button. All registrations, tickets, and save-the-date information for upcoming events are located under the Featured Events button. All monthly ads, discounts, specials, and coupons are under the Discounts button. See this month’s full calendar of events here.
