English Bulldog Puppies for Sale in Colorado Springs, CO
When it comes to buying purebred puppies, there are a lot of breeds and questions to consider. Do you want an outdoor pup or one that spends its time indoors? Are you looking for a tiny dog you can take with you everywhere or a larger breed you can lay with on the couch? Of all the purebred puppies to choose from, none are quite like the English bulldog. Their sourmug face might not be for everyone, but if your ideal version of man's best friend is a snorty, stocky ball of wrinkles that loves to lounge, a bulldog could be perfect for you.
Bulldogs are beloved for their unique looks and charming personalities. They have strong reputations for being loyal companions, making them incredibly popular for families and individuals alike. There's just something about their squishy face and bowling ball body that makes you want to love and cuddle them forever. Unfortunately, finding a purebred English bulldog from your local shelter is like searching for a needle in a haystack. When you factor in the fact that many English bulldog breeders are less-than-reputable, finding the right bulldog puppies for adoption in Colorado Springs, CO can be challenging.
If you've been searching high and low for purebred English bulldog puppies from a responsible breeder, don't give up hope. Your search may be coming to an end sooner than you think with the help of IrresistiBulls.
Bulldog Puppies for Sale in Colorado Springs, CO from an Ethical Breeder You Can Trust
IrresistiBulls was born out of love for the English bulldog who first graced our world, Bruiser. It became our mission to spread the joy he afforded us to families around the nation. We pride ourselves on being more than just breeders; we're a lifelong support system for our families. Unlike many competitors, we stay in touch with each family that purchases from us. We make it a point to offer expert tips and tricks for any challenges that may arise, which can help save you time, money, and a trip to the vet.
The IrresistiBulls Difference
At IrresistiBulls, breeding English bulldogs isn't just a career choice. It's a passion. When you welcome a bulldog pup from our program into your home, you're not just getting any dog - you're gaining a remarkable English bulldog with a documented lineage of health, intelligence, and obedience - as well as all the hallmark traits that make English bulldogs beloved. While our dogs come from champion lines, they're perfect for families, provide unconditional love, and will probably be your new dinner bell, too.
It's Science, Not Trial and Error
Our cherished bulldog, Bruiser, was a unique boy. He stood out from other dogs. Like Bruiser, IrresistiBulls stands out from other breeders because we base our breeding practices on science and careful consideration.
Our goal isn't just about selling English bulldog puppies. It's to ensure that every puppy we breed excels in health, temperament, intelligence, and obedience. We don't rely on trial and error, which often yields more errors than successes. Extensive research underpins our methods to guarantee the best possible outcomes. Our dedication extends not only to the families welcoming our puppies into their homes but also to the well-being and quality of life of the puppies themselves. That's the IrresistiBulls difference.
Sire and Dams Bred for Excellence
When it comes to longevity, health, temperament, and intelligence, it all starts with the dam and sire. That's why our English bulldog sires and dams are carefully selected for their excellence, champion bloodlines, and genetic traits. We're not your run-of-the-mill English bulldog breeders in South Carolina; we've perfected our method. We genuinely care and view every puppy we bring into the world as a part of our extended family. Each one of our dogs is truly the "cream of the crop," guaranteed to pass on greatness to their offspring.
Why Do So Many Bulldog Lovers Choose IrresistiBulls?
Simply put, we truly care about our bulldogs and the families that build cherished memories with them. We're incredibly thankful to have worked with so many amazing clients who trust our process and value our commitment to the health and wellness of our bulldog pups. Our wonderful clients recommend their friends and family members to IrresistiBulls because we prioritize:
World-Class Bulldog Lineage from Around the World
When you buy from IrresistiBulls, you can rest easy knowing you're getting the best of the best. We take pride in ethically breeding our puppies by using champion bloodlines from different parts of the world. By doing this, we reduce the chances of our puppies inheriting common health issues that can affect English bulldogs. Our puppies come from well-regarded show dog ancestry from countries like Ukraine, Spain, and Russia, to name a few.
World-Class Bulldog Lineage from Around the World
We meticulously breed for highly coveted traits and take proactive measures to limit traits that can lead to health conditions in your puppy. Our efforts have successfully eliminated issues such as corkscrew tails and narrow nares, ensuring a worry-free experience for our puppies and their new families.
An Improved Process of Breeding Purebred English Bulldog Puppies for Sale in Colorado Springs, CO
Breeding any dog, especially English bulldogs, poses health concerns. We make every effort to breed English bulldogs with the desirable genetic traits while working to eliminate those that could result in health problems. The key is to avoid breeding puppies that are closely related and could potentially have genetic abnormalities.
Unfortunately, some breeders are either irresponsible or lack an understanding of the complexities involved in producing healthy English bulldog lines. We only breed dogs with the best-quality lineages and never take unnecessary risks by breeding dogs with overly similar ancestry. This approach safeguards not only our business but also the well-being of the puppies and the families who welcome them into their homes.
You're Not Just Our Client. You're Our Family.
When you bring one of our puppies for sale into your home, you become a permanent part of our extended family.
I'm Looking for Bulldog Puppies Near Me in Colorado Springs, CO. How Do I Get Started with IrresistiBulls?
Our IrresistiBulls are usually reserved before the litter is even born. Securing a spot on our reservation list is essential once we confirm a pregnancy. While we strive to honor all reservations, sometimes we have to leave it to nature, so there are no guarantees regarding litter arrivals and viability. However, once you've reserved your new English bulldog puppy, we'll keep you informed every step of the way. As English bulldog lovers, we understand your excitement about welcoming a new addition to your family. That's why we do our best to minimize the uncertainties and challenges that can arise during the breeding process.
Availabull Puppy Pricing
All English bulldog puppies for sale are priced at $4,500.00. Deposits are $500.00. Please visit our website to learn more and see our selection of upcoming Availabulls. When you're ready to put down a deposit on the bulldog pup of your choice, all you have to do is email, call, or text us, and we'll follow up from there.
An English Bulldog Breeders' Guide to Bringing Home Your Furry Friend
Buying English bulldog puppies for sale in Colorado Springs, CO is a joyful and exciting experience. Whether you're a single pup parent or have a family with children, you'll love your new bulldogs' affectionate, loyal nature and will laugh out loud at their quirky attitude. However, bringing a bulldog puppy home necessitates careful forethought and organization to guarantee a seamless adjustment for both you and your new furry pal. Keep these essential tips in mind when it's time to bring your bulldog puppy to your den.
Create a Safe Space
Choose a cozy and secure spot in your home for your bulldog puppy to relax and feel at ease. You might want to opt for a crate or a puppy playpen to create a snug and den-like space for them.
Stock Up on Supplies
Gather essential supplies such as water and food, nutritious and high-quality puppy food, a leash and a collar, bedding, chew toys, and grooming items. If you're worried about overdoing it, don't fret. It's better to be overprepared and have extra than to be underprepared and need more supplies.
Puppy-Proof Your Property
It's important to get your home ready for your new bulldog puppies before they arrive. English bulldog pups are inquisitive by nature and love to play, so expect some high-energy bonding early on. Clear away any small objects that could be swallowed, hide electrical cords, and remove any toxic plants to keep them safe.
Schedule a Follow-Up Visit at Your Vet
Bulldog puppies for adoption in Colorado Springs, CO from IrresistiBulls arrive at your home having had all the proper shots and worming medicines required. However, you should already have a follow-up visit scheduled with your vet before your new family member arrives. Doing so will help you and your vet get on the same page regarding deworming, vaccinations, and preventative healthcare plans.
Make the Most Out of Our Puppy Starter Kits
In the first few days, weeks, and sometimes months, it can be challenging to adjust to having a new puppy at home. Puppies are quite complex, and just like with any newborn, having reliable guidance and essential tools isn't just a luxury - it alleviates stress and makes the process of welcoming and training the puppy much smoother. At IrresistiBulls, we offer a puppy starter kit to provide you with the necessary information on puppy care, the resources you may require along the way, and, of course, an assortment of toys to enrich the bonding experience with your new furry friend.
Settling In After the First Few Days
During the initial days following the arrival of your bulldog puppy, it's essential to focus on establishing a nurturing environment and a consistent routine to build a strong bond. Here are some helpful tips to help your puppy settle in smoothly.
Get a Routine Going ASAP
If there's one thing bulldogs thrive on (besides nutritious, yummy food), it's a routine. After you've been with your new bulldog puppy for a few days, try creating a schedule. Plan out time for eating, bathroom breaks, training, and playing. We should note that it's important to create a schedule that can be incorporated into your family's routine. You don't need to rearrange your life, but you will need to cater to your new doggo to an extent.
Try to Remain Calm and Patient
If you had to move to a new home when you were very young, you probably have an idea how a bulldog puppy would feel, too. It can be overwhelming - not just for your bulldog, but for you too. That's why you should try to be as patient and calm as possible while your new addition gets acclimated to their new surroundings.
Whether you're an experienced dog owner or a newcomer, bringing your puppy into their new home should be nothing but a joyful occasion. At IrresistiBulls, we're happy to help make sure you don't go home in a tizzy. That way, you can focus on spending time with your bulldog puppy and creating a loving home from day one.
Top 5 Reasons to Consider English Bulldog Puppies for Sale in Colorado Springs, CO
Bulldogs are undeniably one of the most adored dog breeds in the world. Their wrinkled faces, stocky bods, and fun personalities have endeared them to dog lovers everywhere. Have you ever met an English bulldog owner who didn't love their pup? We haven't. If you're still on the fence about buying a bulldog puppy for you or your family, you may want to re-think that stance after reading these reasons.
Like, seriously adorable. The wrinkles. The jowls. The saggy eyes. Bulldogs epitomize "Aww, how cute!" especially when they're young. There's just something about grabbing a big wrinkly head and planting a huge kiss right in the middle.
Generally speaking, bulldogs are great pets for kids. That's because they're incredibly calm, fiercely devoted, and, well, lazy. A screaming, tugging child doesn't faze them. They'll even let little ones dress them in cowboy hats and tutus without batting an eye.
Owning a bulldog means there's rarely a dull moment in your home. Whether they're snoring so loud it puts your sleep apnea to shame or interrupting your thoughts with a little flatulence, English bulldogs will make you smile even if you're in a bad mood.
Make no mistake - bulldogs must get exercise to remain healthy. However, when given the choice, many bulldogs would rather curl up on the couch with you than go for a multi-mile run.
If you think breeds like border collies get all the credit for being smart, think again. Have you ever seen a border collie ride a skateboard or surf a wave? Probably not - but bulldogs are known for such feats. That's due in part to their low center of gravity, but it's mostly because bulldogs are so cool.
The Ethical, Easy Choice for Bulldog Puppies for Sale in Colorado Springs, CO
When you trust IrresistiBulls as your bulldog puppy breeder, we believe it's our privilege and duty to provide you with a healthy, happy dog. Every English bulldog we ship in the U.S. is both a part of our beloved Bruiser and also a new part of your family's heart. At the end of the day, our goal is for you to discover your new companion, family mascot, or hot mess without having to worry about shady practices or inconvenient logistics.
We know you'll fall in love as soon as you lay eyes on your new IrresistiBull, just like we did when Bruiser blessed our lives. Contact our office today to learn more about what separates us from other breeders and how we can make your English bulldog ownership dreams come true.
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Latest News in Colorado Springs, CO
Best Internet Providers in Colorado Springs, Colorado
Hedy Phillipshttps://www.cnet.com/home/internet/best-internet-providers-in-colorado-springs-co/
What is the best internet provider in Colorado Springs?Xfinity is the best internet service provider in Colorado Springs, thanks to its broad coverage throughout the area, high download speeds and low prices. If Xfinity isn't available at your address, ...
What is the best internet provider in Colorado Springs?
Xfinity is the best internet service provider in Colorado Springs, thanks to its broad coverage throughout the area, high download speeds and low prices. If Xfinity isn't available at your address, Quantum Fiber, T-Mobile and Rise Broadband are all worth considering.
Plus, Xfinity offers the most affordable plan, with rapid and reliable service. What's more, it provides download speeds of up to 150 megabits per second for just $20 a month for customers in their first year of service. And if you're looking for speed, Xfinity's Gigabit X2 plan is the fastest -- and widely available -- for $115 monthly. In some areas, you can expect download speeds of up to 8 gigs with Quantum Fiber, priced at $165 per month.
Source: CNET analysis of provider data.
Other available internet providers in Colorado Springs
Cheap internet options in Colorado Springs
You'll find decent deals on your internet in Colorado Springs. Based on our calculations, the average starting price is about $44 per month, with a couple of providers offering plans starting even lower. Xfinity clocks in with the lowest price available at $20 per month (plus, it's a good value when looking at price per Mbps), but some internet service providers may offer an even better deal.
Source: CNET analysis of provider data.
How to find internet deals and promotions in Colorado Springs
The best internet deals and top promotions in Colorado Springs depend on what discounts are available during a given period. Most deals are short-lived, but we check frequently for the latest offers.
Colorado Springs internet providers, such as Xfinity and Rise Broadband, may offer lower introductory pricing or streaming add-ons for a limited time. Many providers, including Quantum Fiber, run the same standard pricing year-round.
For a more extensive list of promos, check out our guide to the best internet deals.
How fast is Colorado Springs broadband?
Xfinity has the fourth-fastest median download speed nationwide, so it's no surprise it's the fastest internet service provider you can get in Colorado Springs. Most internet speeds in this area are under 100Mbps, especially if you're on a budget. You'll find download speeds up to 2,000Mbps with Xfinity if you want to spend more money.
Colorado Springs isn't exactly known for its superfast internet speeds; only a few internet service providers offer speeds over 940Mbps. The prices are moderate for these fast speeds.
Source: CNET analysis of provider data.
What’s a good internet speed?
Most internet connection plans can now handle basic productivity and communication tasks. If you're looking for an internet plan that can accommodate videoconferencing, streaming video or gaming, you'll have a better experience with a more robust connection. Here's an overview of the recommended minimum download speeds for various applications, according to the Federal Communication Commission. Note that these are only guidelines and that internet speed, service and performance vary by connection type, provider and address.
For more information, refer to our guide on how much internet speed you really need.
How CNET chose the best internet providers in Colorado Springs
Internet service providers are numerous and regional. Unlike the latest smartphone, laptop, router or kitchen tool, it’s impractical to personally test every ISP in a given city. What’s our approach? We start by researching the pricing, availability and speed information, drawing on our own historical ISP data, the provider sites and mapping information from the Federal Communications Commission at FCC.gov.
It doesn’t end there: We go to the FCC’s website to check our data and ensure we consider every ISP that provides service in an area. We also input local addresses on provider websites to find specific options for residents. We look at sources, including the American Customer Satisfaction Index and J.D. Power, to evaluate how happy customers are with an ISP’s service. ISP plans and prices are subject to frequent changes; all information provided is accurate as of the time of publication.
Once we have this localized information, we ask three main questions:
The answers to those questions are often layered and complex, but the providers that come closest to “yes” on all three are the ones we recommend. When it comes to selecting the cheapest internet service, we look for the plans with the lowest monthly fee, although we also factor in things like price increases, equipment fees and contracts. Choosing the fastest internet service is relatively straightforward. We look at advertised upload and download speeds and also consider real-world speed data from sources like Ookla and FCC reports (Disclosure: Ookla is owned by the same parent company as CNET, Ziff Davis.).
To explore our process in more depth, visit our how we test ISPs page.
What's the final word on internet providers in Colorado Springs?
Colorado Springs offers a wide variety of internet options, whether you're living in a rural area and need a satellite provider or are located downtown looking for a fiber connection. With prices starting at just $20 per month, there's a little something for everyone. Xfinity offers the widest variety with the lowest prices and highest speeds, but local companies like PCI Broadband or Stratus IQ are hanging in there as contenders.
Internet providers in Colorado Springs FAQs
Semiconductor company announces expansion in Colorado Springs
Lauren Watsonhttps://www.kktv.com/2025/05/20/semiconductor-company-announces-expansion-colorado-springs/
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KKTV) - Okika Devices, a chip and software production company, is relocating its headquarters and research and development operations to Colorado Springs.Governor Jared Polis and the state’s Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) made the announcement of the company’s move on Tuesday, highlighting the state and local area’s growth in the semiconductor industry.According to a news release, Okika Devices develops “Field Programmable Analog Array (FPAA) integ...
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KKTV) - Okika Devices, a chip and software production company, is relocating its headquarters and research and development operations to Colorado Springs.
Governor Jared Polis and the state’s Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) made the announcement of the company’s move on Tuesday, highlighting the state and local area’s growth in the semiconductor industry.
According to a news release, Okika Devices develops “Field Programmable Analog Array (FPAA) integrated circuit products to deliver state-of-the-art analog integrated circuit solutions that address complex challenges from sensor processing to machine learning.”
State officials said the company is set to create 20 new jobs with an average annual wage of $104,250.
The company, previously headquartered in California, also considered areas in California and Arizona for expansion. According to a news release, the company currently has six employees, one of whom is in Colorado.
Officials said hiring for Okika was underway as of Tuesday for applications and quality engineers, sales, and procurement.
“Relocating Okika’s headquarters to Colorado Springs marks an exciting new chapter for our company,” Okika’s Chairman and CEO William Staunton said. “The business-friendly environment, along with the unwavering support from the city, county, and state—who truly bent over backwards to make this transition seamless—made our decision an easy one. Colorado Springs offers a rich pool of talented and committed professionals, and we’re proud to join a community known for innovation and excellence. Many of our senior executives, formerly of Ramtron, are thrilled to return and help launch Okika in a place that feels like home. We are looking forward to being back.”
“Okika Device’s dedication to cutting-edge analog solutions and commitment to innovation will undoubtedly strengthen and advance our state’s growing semiconductor ecosystem, further solidifying Colorado’s position as a leader in the advanced industries, technology and strategic economic development,” OEDIT Executive Director Eve Lieberman said.
Copyright 2025 KKTV. All rights reserved.
Best public high schools in the Colorado Springs metro area
Stackerhttps://www.gjsentinel.com/news/colorado/best-public-high-schools-in-the-colorado-springs-metro-area/article_36ddb4bd-e400-5973-958e-5c70f30aab9c.html
Best public high schools in the Colorado Springs metro areaStacker compiled a list of the best public high schools in the Colorado Springs metro area using data from the Niche. Niche uses seven weighted factors for its rankings. A majority of the score is based on academics, but other factors include culture and diversity; sports; clubs and activities; resources; and sur...
Best public high schools in the Colorado Springs metro area
Stacker compiled a list of the best public high schools in the Colorado Springs metro area using data from the Niche. Niche uses seven weighted factors for its rankings. A majority of the score is based on academics, but other factors include culture and diversity; sports; clubs and activities; resources; and surveys of parents, teachers, and students.
#25. Calhan Secondary School
- Location: Calhan School District No. RJ1, CO
- Enrollment: 223 (11:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: B
#24. Atlas Preparatory High School
- Location: Harrison School District No. 2, CO
- Enrollment: 479 (18:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: B
#23. Civa Charter Academy
- Location: Colorado Springs School District No. 11, CO
- Enrollment: 194 (10:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: B
#22. Fountain-Fort Carson High School
- Location: Fountain-Fort Carson School District 8, CO
- Enrollment: 2,040 (17:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: B
#21. Doherty High School
- Location: Colorado Springs School District No. 11, CO
- Enrollment: 1,832 (22:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: B
#20. Palmer High School
- Location: Colorado Springs School District No. 11, CO
- Enrollment: 1,384 (19:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: B
#19. Colorado Early Colleges Colorado Springs
- Location: Colorado Charter School Institute, CO
- Enrollment: 642 (21:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: B
#18. Colorado Military Academy
- Location: Colorado Charter School Institute, CO
- Enrollment: 807 (22:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: B
#17. Coronado High School
- Location: Colorado Springs School District No. 11, CO
- Enrollment: 1,305 (19:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: B+
#16. Liberty High School
- Location: Academy School District No. 20, CO
- Enrollment: 1,647 (18:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: B+
#15. James Irwin Charter High School
- Location: Harrison School District No. 2, CO
- Enrollment: 403 (17:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: B+
#14. Banning Lewis Academy
- Location: District 49, CO
- Enrollment: 1,600 (9:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: B+
#13. Manitou Springs High School
- Location: Manitou Springs School District, CO
- Enrollment: 381 (11:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: B+
#12. Rampart High School
- Location: Academy School District No. 20, CO
- Enrollment: 1,454 (17:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: A-
#11. Thomas MacLaren School
- Location: Colorado Charter School Institute, CO
- Enrollment: 984 (11:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: A-
#10. Discover Canyon Campus High School
- Location: Academy School District No. 20, CO
- Enrollment: 1,087 (18:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: A-
#9. Lewis-Palmer High School
- Location: Lewis-Palmer School District 38, CO
- Enrollment: 1,181 (22:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: A-
#8. Village High School
- Location: Academy School District No. 20, CO
- Enrollment: 447 (19:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: A-
#7. Air Academy High School
- Location: Academy School District No. 20, CO
- Enrollment: 1,329 (16:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: A
#6. Palmer Ridge High School
- Location: Lewis-Palmer School District 38, CO
- Enrollment: 1,094 (20:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: A
#5. Pine Creek High School
- Location: Academy School District No. 20, CO
- Enrollment: 1,815 (18:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: A
#4. Odyssey Early College and Career Options
- Location: Colorado Springs School District No. 11, CO
- Enrollment: 316 (12:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: A
#3. Classical Academy High School
- Location: Academy School District No. 20, CO
- Enrollment: 547 (11:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: A
#2. The Vanguard School Senior High
- Location: Harrison School District No. 2, CO
- Enrollment: 321 (10:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: A
#1. Cheyenne Mountain High School
- Location: Cheyenne Mountain School District No. 12, CO
- Enrollment: 1,241 (16:1 student to teacher ratio)
- Niche grade: A+
This story features data reporting by Rob Powell and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 97 metros.
Originally published on stacker.com, part of the BLOX Digital Content Exchange.
Despite tariff pause, this Colorado bike company has hit the end of the trail
Andrea Dukakishttps://www.cpr.org/2025/05/13/borealis-fat-bikes-goes-out-of-business-trump-tariffs/
It’s not hard to figure out what inspires Steve Kaczmarek, who founded Borealis Fat Bikes in Colorado Springs 12 years ago. Just consider the names of a few of his bikes: Kaczmarek’s first bike was “The Yampa.” There’s “The Crestone,” and the electric bike is “The Keystone.”“Everything we do has a Colorado theme,” said Kaczmarek. “All of our bikes have the Colorado flag on them. We just have great fun being from Colorado.”Specialty bikes known as &ldq...
It’s not hard to figure out what inspires Steve Kaczmarek, who founded Borealis Fat Bikes in Colorado Springs 12 years ago. Just consider the names of a few of his bikes: Kaczmarek’s first bike was “The Yampa.” There’s “The Crestone,” and the electric bike is “The Keystone.”
“Everything we do has a Colorado theme,” said Kaczmarek. “All of our bikes have the Colorado flag on them. We just have great fun being from Colorado.”
Specialty bikes known as “fat bikes” took off right around the time Kaczmarek was starting the company. He describes their design, including larger tires, as ideal for off-road terrain and riding on snow, mud and loose gravel since they have a wider footprint and are more stable.
“You don't have to worry about going over whatever [terrain],” said Kaczmarek, as he pointed out some of the bikes at the company’s current headquarters. “Your eyes are up, you're enjoying, having a good time. They're just fun bikes.”
Kaczmarek has had some ups and downs since he founded the company in 2013, but he said the on-again-off-again tariffs on Chinese goods is a deal-breaker for the business. Borealis designs and assembles its bikes in Colorado Springs, but 80 percent of the parts come from China. Back in 2018, during Trump’s first term as president, Kaczmarek said the 25 percent tariffs Trump imposed and which President Joe Biden maintained cost the company $300,000.
The pandemic, on the other hand, was a boon for the outdoor industry business as people were able to take advantage of the extra time to recreate and started buying up more gear, including campers, outdoor gear and Kaczmarek’s fat bikes.
But when the pandemic ended, business slowed for the industry, something Kaczmarek describes as the “Corona hangover.” Kaczmarek had to let go of about half of his 12-person staff, so the company was still able to make a profit.
Then, in July of last year, Kaczmarek started planning for what he saw as the worst-case scenario: more tariffs that he figured could be as high as 50 percent.
“In July of last year, Trump was gaining speed in the polls, and I said, ‘I've got to move to a place where I have options,’” said Kaczmarek. “ I wanted a one-year lease, which was hard to find, and in the event things went bad, I needed to be able to either pivot or shut down.”
Kaczmarek moved from his 10,000-foot location to a 3,000-foot space and cut more staff, leaving him with three full-time and one part-time employees. Then came the election and the expected imposition of big tariffs on China. Kaczmarek decided he’d have to shut his doors this summer.
“We would've had to have placed orders in February because of the lead time from our suppliers, predominantly in China and then they go on the ocean for a month and then we get them and then we start building,” said Kaczmarek, noting it was just too risky to order more inventory without knowing how much it would cost.
It turned out the tariffs announced on China in April were much higher than Kaczmarek anticipated, so shutting down made sense. And Kaczmarek said even the recent pause in the trade war between the US and China won’t change his plans. There’s just too much uncertainty.
“We're down to our last 200 bikes. We're going to build those while I still have my staff,” Kaczmarek said. “We're exiting this facility at the end of July, and unfortunately, we're letting everybody go.”
Kaczmarek said he’s going to move any remaining inventory to his house and stay on the sidelines to see how the tariff negotiations play out in the long run.
As tariffs take effect, a new struggle for small town newspapers arises – the cost of paper
Others in the industry said they may be forced to sit on the sidelines as well, like Matt Reichel of Boreas Campers in Pueblo, which makes campers built to go off-road and off-grid.
Reichel said the RV industry has declined significantly since its peak in COVID, and his company is running at 50 percent of what it was in 2022. He said the supply chain issues that started during the pandemic have never fully recovered and the company’s future is uncertain.
“It’s just whiplash for everyone,” he said.
He said the company, which also depends on parts from China, had been able to manage the 25 percent tariffs imposed in 2018, but 145 percent is a different ballgame.
Trump hopes that restricting American access to overseas products, especially from China, will incentivize manufacturers to start producing parts in the United States and create more jobs. But Reichel said even if tariffs were to stay at 145 percent, it will still be more expensive to buy his supplies in the U.S.
Borealis’ Steve Kaczmarek agrees. He said he doesn’t think anything he needs could be manufactured cost-competitively in the U.S. compared to China.
“I understand that we're trying to bring jobs back to the US,’ said Kaczmarek. “That's great. I fully support that, but not everything can be brought back.”
Kaczmarek doesn’t see the tires he depends on ever being made in the U.S. He said he looked into bike frames when he started the company and they were five times the cost of what they pay for bike frames in China. He said people just aren't going to spend what it would cost to buy a bike with US parts. One example is the carbon bikes he sells that run from $2,000-$3,000. He predicted a carbon bike with U.S. parts would cost about $10,000.
Kaczmarek said he worries how his employees will make ends meet. Dakota Mossbrook is one of the remaining three full-time workers. Kaczmarek calls him a superstar.
“We've got a really good group and it takes years to get a good group,” Kaczmarek said. But I can't keep paying them. There's just no way to do that.”
Mossbrook, who assembles the bikes, said he’d like to continue doing what he does, but the future doesn’t look good for the industry.
“What's happening to us is kind of happening to the entire industry,” he said. “So options are slim.”
Mossbrook is now looking for a job, but he said for him, the future looks bleak. And Kaczmarek will say goodbye to a business he created from the ground up.
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Portugal family circus coming to Colorado Springs for May
Kelly Hayeshttps://gazette.com/arts-entertainment/newsletter-go/portugal-family-circus-coming-to-colorado-springs-for-may/article_8699319e-abef-4b28-889b-0cd0e90075fd.html
For five generations, the Portugal family has entertained audiences with acrobatic spectacles and amusing stunts.Starting with a small tent in Mexico during the 1950s, the family-run circus grew over the next few decades, eventually traveling to perform around the country. In 2014, the show went international, starting in El Salvador with a Central America tour. By 2019, the family was planning performances across the U.S.The Do Portugal Circus family will be flipping and flying here in Colorado Springs. The family-friendly cir...
For five generations, the Portugal family has entertained audiences with acrobatic spectacles and amusing stunts.
Starting with a small tent in Mexico during the 1950s, the family-run circus grew over the next few decades, eventually traveling to perform around the country. In 2014, the show went international, starting in El Salvador with a Central America tour. By 2019, the family was planning performances across the U.S.
The Do Portugal Circus family will be flipping and flying here in Colorado Springs. The family-friendly circus, set under a big top, will perform throughout May.
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“We have a whole new show this season — completely new tricks, the lighting is better, the equipment is better,” said ringmaster Aldo Portugal, who also dabbles in trapeze. “We’re always trying to improve. I love this show so dearly. I love being in it. I love being part of it. We are always try to make it better and trying to make it bigger and trying to make it as good as it possibly can be.”
The animal-free circus features acts like juggling, aerial silks, hand balancing, magic, trapeze and the globe of death. There will also, of course, be clowns at the show.
The artists — especially the clowns — are very interactive with the audience, Portugal said, in hopes of immersing viewers into the show. That’s part of what makes the Do Portugal Circus unique, he said.
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“There’s never a dull moment during the show,” Portugal said. “We just don’t want the audience to come and sit and watch the show. We want the audience to be part of the show. I always say it’s like a dance, it takes two to tango.”
The performances are always evolving, Portugal said. For those who might be going for the first time, Portugal says to expect the unexpected. Even with all his experience, he often finds himself captivated by the artistry.
“I know it sounds so cliche, but the performances that we have are so unique, the performers have such personalities, I’m really proud of this show we have the season,” Portugal said.
“Be ready to be a little scared — the performers, they are fearless.”
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