Indy Picks

At just 15 years old, Harry Lynch has already spent three years building a dependable local business—and a savings account for his first car.

On hot summer days in southeastern Colorado, sometimes the best business idea is also the simplest one, a cold drink, a good location, and a group of kids willing to put in the work.

The Kiowa County Independent is proud to introduce a new feature series, Indy Kids in Business, highlighting young entrepreneurs who are making a difference in our rural communities. From livestock ventures and handmade products to service-based businesses and startups, this series will showcase the ambition, creativity, and hard work of youth across Southeast Colorado.

In a town where community matters and every home tells a story, a new kind of opportunity has quietly opened its doors in Eads.

For half a century, Ordway Building Supply has been a cornerstone of southeastern Colorado, offering quality products, expert kitchen design, and the kind of personal service that only a family-owned business can provide. This October, owner Quentin Reeves and the whole OBS staff invites the community and longtime customers to celebrate their 50th anniversary with a special two-day Customer Appreciation Event.

For over seven decades, SEMCO Pump Hoist has stood as a proud example of family legacy, entrepreneurial spirit, and community impact in Lamar, Colorado. The company’s roots trace back to 1948, when John Sutphin Sr.

In a region where legal resources can be hard to come by, a new law practice is making waves by offering compassion, competence, and a deep commitment to community. RiverHawkFox LLC, founded by attorney Misty Grady, brings not only legal experience but a heart for rural Colorado.

Blake Robertson, the owner of Blake Robertson’s Handyman Service LLC, is a testament to resilience, skill, and the power of pursuing a passion. A native of Eads, Blake’s journey into construction and home restoration began after an accident that changed his life.

In the heart of Colorado, a fresh voice in holistic health is gaining momentum. Cultivating Wellness LLC, founded earlier this year by Rachel Buck, is redefining wellness by blending modern medical experience with bioenergetic healing.

In the heart of our community, Sunrise Sweets LLC is making life a little sweeter—one custom treat at a time. Owned and operated by Christina Wolf, this small but mighty bakery has become a local favorite for fresh, scratch-made baked goods that combine creativity, flavor, and heart.

The local greenhouse business known as Blue Roof Hydro Farm—Produce, Beef, and Flowers is about to reopen for the season and according to owner Katie Kopasz “The greenhouse is coming along great. To start out, I’ll be focusing on flowers of all kinds, as well as herbs.

Trista Tuttle, a passionate entrepreneur with a deep connection to her community, has embarked on an inspiring journey with F&J Bendorf Building, LLC dba Country Elegance. Located in Eastern Colorado, this multifaceted business offers a diverse range of products and services aimed at fostering creativity and community spirit.

There is an extremely talented young mother who grew up in Eads and now lives in La Junta with her four young children who possesses one of the best photographic eyes and styles we here at the Independent have ever seen. Over the weekend, Emilee (Weirich) Fagan brought her A7III Sony camera and keen eye to the Kiowa County Fair & Rodeo and spent much of her time shooting—documenting—the human condition of the cowboys who are, in our opinion, the backbone of society in rural America.

Nestled in the heart of rural Southeastern Colorado, Grounded Mama LLC is a blossoming doula service that aims to fill a crucial gap in prenatal and early childhood support. Founded by Brittney Wollert, a farm wife and mother of three with a deep-seated passion for child development and family well-being, Grounded Mama is poised to become a vital resource for local families.

Are you passionate about making a difference in people’s lives? Baca Home Care Agency, Inc. is expanding into Kiowa County, Colorado, and we need dedicated caregivers like you!

In the heart of our community, Cafe Bean has quickly become a beloved hub for coffee aficionados and breakfast enthusiasts alike. What started as a cozy corner in the Maine Scoop Ice-cream shop, as part of the Crow-Luther Cultural Events Center, has now blossomed into a thriving cafe at their new location on 1300 Maine Street, nestled within the historic F&J Bendorf Building formerly the Eads Senior Citizens Building.