October 'People You Can Count On' Awarded To Starlene Collins

Going Above And Beyond To Get Food On The Tables Of Those In Need

By Matt Kroschel



Grand Junction- Every month thanks to your nominations we go out and find people on the Western Slope that are making a difference, helping this community to be a better place. October NewsChannel Five awarded Starlene Collins.

Over the past 12 years with the Western Slope Food Bank of the Rockies, Collins has gone above and beyond to make sure food gets to the people who need it the most in the Grand Valley.

Her dedication to her job and the entire community caught not only our attention, but our partners with the Sky Ute Casino. We are honored to award Collins 'People You Can Count On' For the month of October.

If you would like to nominate someone you know for this award, fill out the nomination form on the main page of krextv.com.         

Horizon Drive Thrives in Recession

By Matt Kroschel
Grand Junction - When you think about Horizon Drive in Grand Junction, hotels and gas stations may be what comes to mind, but a new study may shed some light on just how important the area is to Mesa County's overall economy.

Colorado Mesa University researchers released a new study that shows despite the economic recession, businesses along horizon drive have been able to weather the storm.

In fact, businesses report 30% growth over the last few years. $60 million in taxable retail sales come directly from the district, which has 277 individual businesses.

Plans for the future include working to improve safety and deal with a huge increase in traffic along horizon drive.

“We want to improve safety and make it better for foot traffic,” said Lynne Sorlye, a Horizon Drive District board member.

The district was created back in 2004.