CASA of the 7th Judicial District

Court Appointed Special Advocates of the 7th District, or CASA, as they are commonly referred to, underwent a huge transition in early 2014 starting with a reorganization and downsizing. Then, only a few weeks later its executive director resigned with short notice to take care of her ailing parents in another state. Carlton Mason was promoted to be the new executive director.

Although Carlton had owned his own business and was working on a contract basis for CASA, taking over as the executive director was not in his immediate plans. He knew he needed help. So, he called the SBDC knowing they were the go-to place for training and consulting.

Susan Bony met with Carlton many times over the year, helping guide him through his transition. She helped him create a business plan for CASA. They also strategized on board of directors management and development, organizational structure, hosting a fundraising event, long-term strategic planning, and many other topics. CASA recently moved into a larger and more appropriate office area with a play yard for the kids they work with. These positive changes have happened because of the help he received from the SBDC.

Carlton is so glad he met Susan Bony and sees her as his go-to resource when he gets stuck. CASA was in poor financial shape when he took the helm, but now Carlton proudly says, “CASA has a solid plan for its future because of the SDBC.”

Outlaw Spirit

Ingrid Lundahl wanted to publish a table top retrospective book of her photos from the late 1970s up to present day from around Telluride and at various events she attended. Ingrid felt that she had captured the essence of Telluride during this time as she photographed many stars and musicians who have graced this outrageous little mountain town, in addition to images of its dazzling beauty. A congenital chronicler, Ingrid couldn’t help but capture all

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Yoga for the Peaceful

As a child, Brittany Phelps always dreamed of owning a yoga studio. As she grew, she gained more knowledge around the art of yoga and became an instructor. Eight months ago, that dream became a reality. Not one to take risks, she took a risk when she took over ownership of Yoga for the Peaceful in Crested Butte, Colorado. Early on, Brittany experienced difficulty deciphering business documents. Another challenge she faced was learning how to

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Montrose Manor B & B

Freddie and Tom Hancock took one look at their new home in Montrose and saw something beyond a magnificent house. Their dream was to transform it into a bed and breakfast, plus a base for their not for profit animal rescue operation. Familiar with SBDC consulting services in Arizona where they had moved from, the Hancocks contacted the SBDC for assistance in achieving their dream. Freddie gave the SBDC consultant a tour of the 12,500

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A&Y Design Gallery

The smells of fresh roasted coffee and other pleasant scents waft through the air as you enter A&Y Design Gallery in downtown Montrose. Adam & Yesenia Duncan opened A&Y Design Gallery in 2013. The original concept was a gallery that displayed and sold local artisans work and Adam’s hand-made wood furniture. Although the business had been profitable since opening their doors, Yesenia and Adam aspired for more. A friend recommended they contact the SBDC. Discussing

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Mochas! Drive-Thru Coffee House

Barb Carroll opened Mochas in May of 1997, after about 5 months of research and planning. The first location was a 120 square foot building. After 3 years at that location, Mochas relocated to a larger building (750 square feet) and expanded the menu to include smoothies, sandwiches, and ice cream, as well as inside seating for 16. In January of 2007, Mochas expanded again by leasing the neighboring unit and removing a large wall.

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Montrose Eagle Taxi Service

Disabled veteran John Casedy doesn’t drink alcohol; however, he enjoys the social part of going to the local bars. Recently, one night he stayed until the bar closed. He noticed that everyone left and drove home – sober or not. He offered to take several folks home who clearly shouldn’t have driven. During the drive, they discussed the need for a taxi service from the bars. John saw this business opportunity. The next day, he

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