Martinizing Dry Cleaning is the only dry cleaner in Thornton that uses the Green Earth cleaning system, which has become the global standard for environmentally friendly dry cleaning, said owner Brad Johnson.
Martinizing, 13689 Colorado Blvd., also reuses six tons of hangers that are returned by their customers each year. The business is a member of the Colorado Environmental Leadership Program and strives to reduce electric and water usage.
For its efforts in environmental impact reduction, the city awarded Martinizing Dry Cleaning as the Best Green Business at Thornton’s 26th Annual Business Expo on April 19 at the DoubleTree by Hilton.
“Thornton feels that this annual event offers an excellent opportunity not only to recognize the businesses, but also it provides a networking opportunity and a chance for the city to update business leaders on economic development news, programs and other resources available to them,” said Kimberly Schafer, economic development marketing specialist with the city.
Four other businesses were recognized.
Crossfit Thornton, 12061 Pennsylvania St., won Best Small Business for the impact it has made on the members who attend the gym — from ages 17 to 70 of all fitness levels. Crossfit has less than 20 employees and is owned by Jeff Stanek and Lawrence Rangel.
“Running a small business is extremely difficult and time consuming — it’s not like small business owners like us are making millions,” Stanek said. “But it’s a great feeling that you don’t have to be tied to a 9-to-5 job to be successful.”
When owner Jim Black of Jim Black Construction attended the expo, he said he was not expecting the award for Best Large Business and that it came as a “tremendous surprise.”
“Being nominated with such an esteemed group of companies was an honor in of itself,” Black said.
Jim Black Construction, 12279 Pennsylvania St., has been in business in Thornton for more than 30 years and specializes in property restoration and aids in the testing and mitigation of mold and asbestos in damaged properties.
Mountain View Garage, 8650 Pearl St., took home the Best Business Citizen award for its civic engagement, volunteer and charitable efforts.
The garage provides discount, and sometimes free, repairs to residents in need as identified by local churches, supports local scout troops, participates in Thornton’s Adopt-A-Street program and does free oil changes for seniors who provide their own oil.
North Suburban Northeast Emergency Room, 12793 Holly Street, won Best Job Creator.
It opened its new Thornton facility in 2012 and employs 42 physicians, nurses and paramedics.
