In 2021, my business, EsoTerra Ciders, Wines and Arboretum, was based in Dolores. One warm Saturday morning, a man appeared with his dog in our sales room. He said he was passing through, saw the tables and umbrellas on our patio and had to turn around to learn more about our business. He asked: Why Dolores? Why hard cider in Southwest Colorado? Had we worked with business accelerators? How had we funded the company?
He seemed genuinely curious about how rural businesses operate. He mentioned he was involved with entrepreneurship in Colorado and had co-founded Startup Colorado, an organization that supports entrepreneurs across the state, especially in rural and underserved communities. As he was leaving, he quietly mentioned he was our state attorney general, Phil Weiser.
Being married to a county commissioner might make you think I’m especially political, but I am not. I spend my time focused on running my small business and being a father to two children. But when someone with Phil’s influence takes interest in your business, it’s memorable.
Phil is a rare kind of politician – genuine, not in it for personal gain. When he speaks with you, it’s obvious he cares. He listens and wants to find practical solutions to your problems. He’s in it for the greater good, for everybody, especially rural Coloradans.
The governorship should be about service, attention and helping every corner of Colorado succeed. For economic development in our part of the world, keep Sen. Michael Bennet in the Senate – because Weiser is the wiser choice.
Jared Scott
Hesperus