With the election just a few months away, Arvada Chamber of Commerce hosted an Advocacy After Hours + Candidate Meet & Greet on Sept. 6, creating a space to help voters get to know candidates. 

The Meet & Greet hosted at LUKI Brewery had candidates from a variety of races impacting Arvada voters, including mayoral candidates John Marriott and Lauren Simpson, city council at-large candidates Sharon Davis and Bob Loveridge, District 2 candidates Shawna Ambrose and Michael Griffith and District 4 candidates Jessica Fenske and Bob Fifer. ]

There also were candidates for the Jeffco Public Schools Board of Education present, including Erin Kenworthy, Joel Newton and Michelle Applegate.

LUKI released two special small-batch beers for the event. Both beers were picked and named by mayoral candidates, who also helped to create the beers.

Simpson’s beer, “Blonde Ambition,” was a mango blonde ale, while Marriott’s beer was the “Ourvada Cream Ale.” Proceeds from both beers went to Hope, Connection and Community, the Chamber’s 2022 Nonprofit of the Year. 

Kami Welch — president of the Arvada Chamber of Commerce — expressed gratitude for the city council and school board candidates who were present at the Advocacy After Hours. 

“Bridging the gap between policymakers and businesses is paramount to the success of our community and economy,” Welch said.  “This event marks a significant stride towards fostering lasting connections and ensuring a seamless path forward.”