One year in, and I’m thrilled to say that this adventure has been everything I hoped for and more! As I mentioned when I first announced this new chapter, the business climate in Montrose is ripe for growth, and I’m ecstatic to be able to offer a business-to-business publication that captures the progressive spirit and entrepreneurial energy of Montrose Colorado and the surrounding areas.
Tonya Maddox, Montrose Business Times founder and publisher.
From the incredible people I’ve had the privilege of working with, to the exhilaration of getting the paper out the door each week, to the writing, editing, and publishing decisions – it’s all been absolutely thrilling. But what has truly surprised me is the outpouring of love and support we’ve received from the community. I knew we’d build goodwill over time, but the way people have embraced the Montrose Business Times has been truly humbling.
They call, post on social media, email and stop by the office just to express how much they enjoy the paper. They get excited about the articles and are genuinely invested in our health and growth. It’s amazing to see how much this publication means to the people of Montrose, and it’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team.
As I have shared with others, the weirdest part is when I’m out and about, and I see or think of something that could be of interest or useful to the business community – I have the ability to do something about it. I can share that story!
It’s been surreal to witness the evolution of the local news ecosystem, with the daily newspaper now publishing only twice a week. I’ve had countless conversations with people who lament this change and wonder how we can help fill that void. As for the financial and personal sustainability of this venture, I can say that it’s been a significant investment, but one that I’m wholeheartedly committed to. This isn’t just a business – it’s a labor of love, and I’m in it for the long haul. The rewards, both tangible and intangible, far outweigh the challenges.
However, we continue to need the support of the community to continue to offer this product for free. Whether it be advertising, subscribing for free, supporting us as a MBT Press Club Member, donations, being a host location for our kiosks, sponsoring a business event, following us on social media, your kind notes and more, we couldn’t do this each and every week without you!
Although it may seem like a shameful plug (and I am okay with that), I must share this email we received last week from a reader.
“Having lived here just a few short years I cannot tell you how excited I get receiving your new edition of Montrose Business Times via email each week. It has made me feel very connected to this community. When discussing new businesses with my friends or neighbors, they always ask, “how do you know these things” I head them right to my source, Montrose Business Times. Thank you for your very helpful publications and the information for new as well as established citizens of Montrose. HAPPY ONE YEAR!” Gwen V.
So, thank you Gwen and all of our readers and subscribers. Here’s to another year of growth, discovery, and making a real difference in the lives of the businesses, professionals, and entrepreneurs in Montrose. I can’t wait to see what the future holds!
Cheers,
Tonya
