More than 1,000 business and community leaders celebrated the National Western Stock Show, the business of agriculture and the region’s western heritage while supporting scholarships for future farmers and ranchers today at the 24th annual Boots ’n Business luncheon, hosted by the Chamber and the National Western Stock Show.
In fact, 116,000 people are employed in agriculture, creating a $41 billion economic impact.
“[Ag] is still our top export. As we build the tech industry in Colorado, these two industry clusters are merging together and innovating and creating,” said Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Kelly Brough.
National Western Stock Show President and CEO Paul Andrews added that during the next two weeks, the Stock Show will create $100 million in economic impact.
Having a crowd this size of business leaders in one room reminds us that our strong commitment to one another and our community is what makes us thrive.
Guests paid tribute to Zackari Parrish, the fallen Douglas County Sheriff’s deputy who’s funeral service was today, with a moment of silence.
Denver Mayor Michael B. Hancock reminded guests that over the next two weeks a number of officers and first responders will be on hand at the Stock Show, and how important it is that we recognize their commitment to keeping us all safe. He and the 1,000 attendees gave them a standing ovation for their service. “Thank you for all you do for us,” the mayor said.
The event has been made possible by presenting sponsor U.S. Bank, entertainment sponsor Hensel Phelps, agricultural education appreciation sponsor MolsonCoors and gold sponsors Bank of America, Cigna, Denver Water, Encana Corporation, Fidelity Investments, GE Johnson, Lockton, Mechanical Contractors Association of Colorado, Polsinelli, Saunders Construction, Inc., Suncor and Univision Colorado.
Sara Crocker is the communications manager for the Denver Metro Chamber.