Fifty years ago, in 1967 Ed Carroll VW in Fort Collins opened its doors on what was, at the time, barren land on South College Avenue. As Fort Collins grew, so did Ed Carroll Motor Company, adding Audi in 1974 and Porsche in 1979 to their roster. At one time they even sold Mitsubishis.

Ed's son John came into the business in the late '80s and took complete ownership of the business in 2006. They are a people first business, and many of their employees have worked at Ed Carroll Motor Company for over 20 years.

As a fellow Rotarian with John, I've seen firsthand how giving the Carroll family has been in the Northern Colorado community. Cathy Gill, former executive director of Meals on Wheels Fort Collins, praises philanthropic efforts of both Ed and John.

"Over the years (the annual car show) has generated hundreds of thousands of dollars, buying more than 500,000 meals," Gill said.

Over those 50 years, Ed Carroll Motor Company has sold over 47,000 cars.

You can help them celebrate this milestone at their anniversary party. Feel free to stop by their showroom, located at 3003 S College Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80525, for their open house this Thursday, November 16 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. featuring hors d'oeuvres and drinks, live music, a cigar room and specially made beer favors for attendees.

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