Retired editor/reporter Castle garners inaugural Spirit of Business Award

Phil Castle was vacationing in Italy when the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce presented its 2025 Business Awards during its annual banquet Feb. 28 at Two Rivers Convention Center.

He had a long-held belief that as an editor and reporter he was never to be part of a story he was reporting, and it appears even in retirement he remains of that mind.

But even while in a country on the other side of the Atlantic Ocean, Castle can’t dodge the fact the Grand Junction Chamber selected him to be the inaugural winner of its Spirit of Business Award.

Castle wasn’t at the banquet to accept his award – again, busy checking out the Colosseum in Rome and St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City – but he’s still part of the chamber’s history as it lauded his 25 years as a reporter and editor for The Business Times.

The chamber wrote summaries for the five award winners and said the following about Castle:

“For over 25 years, Phil Castle was the voice of business in Grand Junction, telling the stories behind the statistics and highlighting the people who drive the local economy. As the editor of The Business Times, he covered nearly 1,000 publications, bringing integrity, curiosity and heart to every article.

“Even in his retirement, Castle’s legacy as a trusted journalist and business advocate remains. In recognition of his contributions, the Chamber is proud to present the inaugural Spirit of Business Award to a man who spent his career ensuring that businesses big and small had a voice.”

Castle took a few minutes during his vacation to write an email with a few thoughts about receiving the Spirit of Business Award. He wrote: “I’m thrilled to receive the chamber award. Having covered the annual awards presentation for so many years, I’m aware of what an honor it is to receive that kind of recognition. I’m so grateful.

“It’s doubly gratifying to receive recognition for something I loved doing. I was blessed to work so long in print journalism with real print and what I’d contend was real journalism. Most of all, I was blessed to tell the remarkable stories of so many wonderful businesses and their owners. The incredible challenges they endured and risks they took to bring products and services to market. The ways they cared for their customers and employees. Their contributions to the community. Some of my biggest heroes are entrepreneurs. Moreover, my boss gave me unbridled freedom to pursue those stories I deemed most compelling. What a luxury for a journalist.

“Even after 25 years of work as editor of a business journal, I was constantly amazed by the innovative businesses in the Grand Valley. They do that here? Really? I couldn’t wait to tell those stories. Or believe I was fortunate enough to get paid to do so. I really was blessed.”

The chamber’s awards honor businesses and individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, community involvement and business success in the Grand Valley.

2025 Grand Junction Chamber Award Winners

Christi Reece Group

Small Business of the Year

Success in business isn’t just about numbers, it’s about impact. Since its founding in 2019, the Christi Reece Group has integrated philanthropy into its operations, setting aside 2 percent of every transaction for local nonprofits through the CIRCLE Fund. This initiative has donated over $421,000 to 28 organizations, including $85,000 in the past year alone. By engaging clients and employees in the selection of causes, they ensure that their contributions remain meaningful and deeply connected to the Grand Junction community.

Innovative Textiles

Large Business of the Year

From humble beginnings crafting kite-flying fibers to revolutionizing the fishing industry, Innovative Textiles has built a global brand while remaining committed to Grand Junction. Acquired by Shimano American Corp. in 2009, the company continues to prioritize local hiring and workforce development. Their inclusive employment strategies support young professionals, veterans, individuals in community corrections, and those with disabilities. By investing in apprenticeships, internships and generational mentorship programs, Innovative Textiles is shaping the future workforce while keeping high-quality jobs in Mesa County.

Selena Sanchez

Young Professional of the Year

A Grand Junction native and Colorado Mesa University alum, Selena Sanchez is shaping the future of the local economy through innovative marketing and community leadership. As Director of Marketing at the Grand Junction Economic Partnership, she promotes the region as a premier business destination. Her previous work with the Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce, GROWL Agency, and the Colorado Companies to Watch Grand Junction Chapter has connected and elevated local businesses. Additionally, her role on the United Way Board of Directors showcases her commitment to community service and regional development.

Shane Haas

Citizen of the Year

With 43 years in the construction industry, Shane Haas has built more than just buildings – he has built a lasting legacy. As President of FCI, he has played a pivotal role in regional development. Beyond his professional success, Haas is deeply invested in education, workforce development and healthcare. His leadership roles with the D51 Foundation, Grand Junction Economic Partnership and Marillac Health have helped strengthen vital community services. His dedication to mentorship, conservation, and entrepreneurship makes him a true champion for the Grand Valley.