SandBoxBlogs: Denver Post "Glenwood Springs and Carbondale in search of economic development"

John Colson:
"GLENWOOD SPRINGS— —This city and the town of Carbondale are acting together but separately to come up with economic development ventures.

And the nonprofit Roaring Fork Business Resource Center is in the middle of it all.

"I've been preaching this whole regional thing forever," said Randi Lowenthal, CEO of the RFBRC, also known as the Center. She said she believes the only way towns can be successful is to work together to attract new business and tourists, and to encourage economic growth.

Her ideas have gotten a good reception from the officials in both towns.

"I think Randi's plans might offer us a chance for some tangible success," said Glenwood Springs Mayor Matt Steckler...."
(Read more?  Click title)

"Unapologetic pursuit and tracking of patterns within the news others make since 2010."

SandBoxBlogs: Glenwood Springs Post Independent "County renews business center support"

This is very good news.  Randi Lowenthal and her organization are one of those off-shoot 'save the folks' groups that came into being as it became more and more apparent that there are gaping holes in balanced small business representation and services in the Glenwood Springs area.

GarCo commissioners should continue to fund Randi's organization.  After all, at least part of the time isn't it good PR to give some love to those outside of the crony club?

Congratulations to Randi's success! 

John Stroud:   
"RFBRC Executive Director Randi Lowenthal said the original support from local governments served as matching support for a three-year state grant.

“We are looking at ongoing support from Garfield County, and hope to convince you that what we do is worth your support,” Lowenthal said.

The county has been working with a marketing consultant to help define a role for county government in economic development efforts....." (Read more? Click title)

"Unapologetically pursuing and tracking patterns within the news others make since 2010."

SandBox Comments: Glenwood Springs Post Independent/The Bottom Lines "Roaring Fork Business Resource Center grant"

Congratulations to Randy Lowenthal and the RFBRC!  A terrific organization that stepped up to the plate when founded by meeting what was, at the time, a gaping hole in small business advocacy in the Roaring Fork Valley.

They've done an amazing job and it's great to see such significant support from the community continue on year after year.

"The Roaring Fork Business Resource Center has received an anonymous challenge again this year from a funder who will match sponsorship pledges received by Dec. 31 dollar-for-dollar, up to a total of $20,000.

This is a great opportunity to maximize sponsorship dollars before the end of the year, while supporting the center's mission “to help businesses start, develop, and grow, resulting in job creation and retention, economic growth, and positive impacts on the communities we serve.”

Funds will be used to increase the capacity to provide technical and educational assistance; to focus on business development; and to develop research capabilities for start-ups and business owners from Parachute to Aspen.

The center is tax-exempt under Section 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code, so sponsorships may be treated as a tax-deductible contribution.

Call (970)945- 5158 for information. "
(via Glenwood Springs Post Independent)