We Are Honored
to be
The Greater Woodland Park
Chamber of Commerce
Non-Profit of the Year
Our Friend in Neighborly Service
Spencer Swann
has been named
Wagon Boss
of the Year by the
Greater Woodland Park Chamber of Commerce.
Owner of Canyon Signs, Swann is recognized for his work with nonprofit organizations in Woodland Park and Teller County.
Photo by Pat Hill
“Spence has supported and promoted Woodland Park for many years,” said Chamber president Debbie Miller. “He has helped Teller County Regional Animal Shelter, the Salvation Army, Rotary, Kiwanis, the Saddle Club and many more by teaching them how to promote their organizations with a professional look.”
A Woodland Park activist, Swann is known for his supportive and encouraging nature, a man who never looks for accolades or praise.
*The Chamber’s Nonprofit of the year is the Woodland Park Community Cupboard, led by Executive Director Kathy Blough.
During 2010, volunteers and staff at the Cupboard gave 3,487 hours of service and provided food for 1,478 families.
As well, the Cupboard transferred 8,440 pounds of food to the senior center in Woodland Park. “When the need arises, clients who are homebound have food boxes delivered by staff or volunteers,” said Michael Harper, chairman of the chamber board.
“The Community Cupboard’s outstanding commitment to our area for more than 30 years has ensured that we take care of the less fortunate.”
*The chamber named the Midland Pavilion the 2010 Project of the Year. A venue for concerts and numerous other events, the pavilion was a collective effort from more than 30 local businesses and organizations.
In 2009, Bob Harvey, project manager for the Downtown Development Authority, collaborated with several groups to create the foundation that eventually raised $25,000 to fund the pavilion. “The committee came together to pull off a unique project,” said Beth Kosley, director the DDA. “This truly is an area where musicians, community members and visitors mingle to enjoy our lovely city.”
*Michael Smith was named the Volunteer of the Year. Active in law enforcement as well as search-and-rescue organizations since the 1970s, Smith moved to Colorado in 2005 and began his volunteer work with Teller County Search & Rescue a year later.
“Michael lends his own bloodhounds to the search efforts, which has resulted in positive endings for what might have been terrible disasters,” Miller said.
In addition to search and rescue, Smith is active with the Colorado Mounted Ranger, B Troop and was named Captain in 2008. “Teller County is such a wonderful area for outdoor activity but sometimes people get lost or hurt,” Miller said. “Michael’s volunteer efforts are a true blessing to our area.”
*Pikes Peak Regional Hospital is the chamber’s Business of the Year. “While providing residents with easier access to health care and emergency treatment, PPRH has strengthened its community’s infrastructure and solidified its future,” said Rick Chulick, past chairman of the chamber board.
In 2010, the hospital increased its staff by 10 percent, treated 136 trauma victims, cared for more than 6,000 emergency-room patients, performed 550 surgeries, conducted 52,000 laboratory tests and 10,000 radiology procedures.
“Numerous sponsorship dollars have returned to our community and their employees donate hundreds of hours to events such as Relay for Life, Teller County Health Fair and Oktoberfest,” Chulick said.
*The awards will be presented March 11 at the Chamber’s 44th annual dinner “An Evening in the New West,” at the Antler’s Hotel in Colorado Springs. For more information, call the chamber at 687-9885.
