By Elean Gersack

On Tuesday, January 16, local business owners had the opportunity to learn more about, and to sign-up for, Business in the Pines memberships.

Carla Kenny and Sharon Kollmar, co-directors of Business in the Pines, spoke about member benefits and initial plans for the association. “From marketing collateral to specialized events, we want to bring people to the businesses,” said Kenny.

A twelve year veteran of the Castle Rock Chamber of Commerce, Paul Arvidson, vice president and branch manager at the Castle Pines’ Castle Rock Bank, and Business in the Pines board member, knows first hand the advantages of working in partnership together. “From customer referrals to attracting new people to the area, all of our businesses can grow significantly, ” said Arvidson.

Ultimately, Business in the Pines belongs to the businesses. “We are the facilitators. This is your organization and it will be what you want it to be,” said Kollmar. The Business in the Pines board of directors plans to meet monthly with full membership meetings held each quarter.

Plans are already underway to launch a business directory in February as well as new resident welcome bags in March. For more information about Business in the Pines, including application forms, member benefits and sponsorship information, please visit www.businessinthepines.com.