On August 14, Cassie and Tommy Orduno were awarded Business of the Year by the Carbon County Board of Realtors.

The Ordunos own and operate several businesses in Saratoga including Bella’s Bistro, opened in 2011; Saratoga Sandwich Company, opened in 2020; Sunny Cup, opened in 2022; and The Lucky Pearl, opened in 2023. Across all four businesses, the couple employ a total of 28 locals while also raising their two young children.

On August 14, Shelby McGuire was recognized by her peers as she was awarded Realtor of the Year by the Carbon County Board of Realtors.

The 307 Pub and Grub is a restaurant that does lunch and breakfast in Encampment. The restaurant has a very warm cabin-like atmosphere which made me feel right at home.

The Country Store in Saratoga is now providing premium diesel, a recent move made by owners Megan Martin and her fiance, Jay Buszkiewic.

The addition of diesel, said the owners, is due to demand from their customers since taking over two years ago. Martin said investing in premium diesel helps them compete in business and brings revenue to the Platte Valley community. She said premium diesel is beneficial for local businesses.

Those looking for a little smoke and fire with great quality in the Valley can now find it right in Saratoga. The Malt recently added barbecue to its menu, including the Smoke Show Plate.

When walking into an establishment where fish are swimming, tarantulas and bearded dragons are crawling or a ball python is slithering it’s obvious someone has entered the BackLife Aquatics Pet Store.

Scott Nelson, owner of BackLife Aquatics, partnered with his father Greg Nelson.

Nelson and his father originally started as a home business before they opened their store.