DENVER ~ Denver, CO - Governor Jared Polis has announced his nomination of the Pueblo Chile to be featured on Colorado's 2028 American Innovation Coin. This decision has been met with excitement and pride from Pueblo leaders, who see it as a well-deserved recognition of their community and its iconic chile pepper.

Representative Tisha Mauro (HD-46), a Pueblo Chile farmer, expressed her joy at the selection, stating that it is a cause for celebration. She emphasized the significance of the Pueblo Chile to their identity and expressed her eagerness to share it with the rest of the country. Mauro also looks forward to seeing the final design, which she hopes will highlight not only Pueblo's famous agriculture industry but also its rich history and hardworking people.

Representative Matthew Martinez (HD-62) echoed Mauro's sentiments, calling the spotlight on the Pueblo community and its tradition of growing Colorado's iconic chile pepper well-deserved. He emphasized that the Pueblo Chile is not only a notable agricultural product in their state but also a major economic driver for Southern Colorado. Martinez highlighted its versatility as a food product, used in everything from salsas and hot sauces to beer, and its role in putting Pueblo on the map nationally.

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Senator Nick Hinrichsen (SD-3) also praised Governor Polis' decision, stating that there is no better way to recognize Colorado's contribution to American heritage and innovation than by featuring the unrivaled Pueblo chile. He highlighted how Pueblo's unique climate and soil composition create an ideal environment for producing some of the best culinary and agricultural exports in their state.

Pueblo Mayor Heather Graham expressed her excitement at seeing their community and beloved Pueblo Chile represented on a national stage through this coin. She emphasized that it showcases not only their hardworking agriculture communities but also their natural beauty, people, and heritage. Graham also acknowledged the efforts of Dr. Mike Bartolo and his team in bringing Pueblo's local agriculture to the state and national stage, with the Pueblo Chile being a staple in their homemade recipes, local restaurants, and celebrated at the annual Pueblo Chile and Frijole Festival.

Former Pueblo Mayor Nicholas Gradisar also shared his enthusiasm for the nomination, stating that it recognizes the significant role that agriculture plays in Pueblo's economy and surrounding areas.

Donielle Kitzman, Vice President of the Greater Pueblo Chamber of Commerce and Executive Director of the Pueblo Chile Growers Association, described this coin as a monumental victory and a historic tribute to Pueblo's agricultural legacy. She emphasized how it represents generations of farming families who have transformed a single pepper into a national culinary icon. Kitzman sees this coin as a symbol of hometown pride for their community and believes it will be carried in the pockets of millions for generations to come.

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Sal Pace, former Pueblo County Commissioner and Former Colorado House Minority Leader representing Pueblo, took a lighthearted approach to Governor Polis' decision. He pointed out that New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has spent years claiming that New Mexico chile is better than Pueblo chile. However, with this coin featuring their beloved pepper, Pace believes there is no need for further argument. He jokingly offered Grisham a taste of their famous "slopper" smothered in green chile if she still needs convincing.

Former Majority Leader and Pueblo County Commissioner Daneya Esgar also expressed her excitement at seeing the superior Pueblo Chile showcased on Colorado's 2028 American Innovation Coin. She emphasized its significance as a symbol of resilience, community, and strength in Southern Colorado for generations.

With Governor Polis' nomination of the Pueblo Chile for Colorado's 2028 American Innovation Coin, it is clear that this iconic pepper holds a special place in the hearts of Pueblo leaders and their community. Its recognition on a national stage is a testament to its cultural significance and the hard work of those who have helped make it a staple in Colorado's agriculture industry.

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