To the Editor:

In response to the letter from the Kremmling families concerned about “corporate America” destroying some of our local businesses following the closure of two long-time Kremmling businesses, I would like to make everyone aware of a local group who has been extremely concerned about this very issue for years.

Businesses Without Borders (BWB) is a coalition of local business owners who believe that independent businesses build strong communities. BWB has no membership fees or dues, we have no borders and welcome participants from Kremmling, Parshall, Hot Sulphur Springs, Grand Lake, Granby, Tabernash, Fraser, Winter Park and all points in between.

Many local businesses promote and support BWB as a united front to combat the homogenization of this county and slow the replication of cookie cutter developments that have swallowed the soul and uniqueness of many American neighborhoods.

BWB participants understand that big box stores develop markets while independent retailers develop communities. We believe the best way to turn the behemoth aside is with a solid front of a vital and active small business awareness, outstanding customer service, personal investment and pride in ownership.

BWB has been meeting twice a month at different locations throughout the county for over three years now. BWB participants get to know one another and have opportunities to partner on different marketing and advertising opportunities as well as promoting and supporting one another.

If you are interested in more information, contact us at businesseswithoutborders@hughes.net or, better yet, come to our next gathering Wednesday, April 16, at The Winter Park Market at 5:30 p.m.

Francie de Vos

Businesses Without Borders participant