Let's talk business: Pueblo manufacturing companies can enter 'Coolest Thing' contest

Pueblo manufacturing businesses are invited to participate in the Colorado Chamber of Commerce's Coolest Thing Made in Colorado contest — a new competition celebrating the state’s vibrant manufacturing industry.

“This is a unique opportunity for manufacturers from every corner of the state to put their best creations on display, and we encourage nominations of local products from Pueblo to compete for the title of Coolest Thing Made in Colorado," said Loren Furman, chamber president and chief executive officer. “Colorado is home to some of the most innovative companies in manufacturing and we’re proud to bring attention to the many fascinating products made right here in our state.”

The nomination period closes on Sept. 9. An independent panel of judges will review the nominations and select the top ten finalists in late September.

The finalists will be honored at the Colorado Chamber’s annual meeting luncheon on Oct. 20 where the winner will be announced. The winner will be awarded the Coolest Thing Made in Colorado trophy along with the title and recognition.

Nominations can be submitted at coolestthingcolorado.com/nominations.

Pueblo Eyemart Express supports Stand Up to Cancer fundraiser

Eyemart Express, 4420 N. Freeway Road, will donate $5 for every pair of Stand Up to Cancer eyeglasses that are purchased through Aug. 27 to the cancer research organization, Stand Up to Cancer.

Pueblo residents can help by selecting a pair of the Stand Up to Cancer frames for their prescription glasses or sunglasses. The line of 22 assorted frames are exclusively made in collaboration with the research organization and Visual Eyes Eyewear.

Frames, starting at $69.95, can be seen online at eyemartexpress.com.

“Cancer impacts so many families and communities,” said Antonio Micciche, Eyemart Express general manager in Pueblo. “Our fundraiser is an easy way to honor a loved one and contribute to the life-saving research that Stand Up To Cancer does while keeping your eyes healthy.”

The Pueblo Eyemart Express is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monarch plants 1,400 new trees to replace beetle killed evergreens

MONARCH — Staff at Monarch Mountain, the closest ski resort to Pueblo, joined forces with the Greater Arkansas River Nature Association and their volunteers on Aug. 2 to plant 1,400 Engelmann spruce and lodgepole pine saplings.

In the past five years, Monarch has enlisted the help of timber professionals to remove 300 semi truck loads of timber — all dead or dying trees affected by the spruce beetle endemic. The operations have involved both ground-based and helicopter removal tactics.

“Thanks to the nature association and about 15 volunteers, Monarch Mountain staff were able to plant 1,400 saplings in one day," said Dan Bender, Monarch marketing director. "These trees will not only be enjoyed by future generations but will add to the health of the forest at Monarch Mountain."

This article originally appeared on The Pueblo Chieftain: Pueblo manufacturers can apply for Coolest Thing Made in Colorado