FALL Welcome New Chamber Chairman John Beeble

Transcription

1 FALL 2012 Welcome New Chamber Chairman John Beeble

2 L e t t e r f r o m t h e P r e s i d e n t A few short days after this edition of Business Altitude is released, Colorado voters will help elect our nation s president, new congressional, state and local leaders, and will make decisions on a variety of issues from local school funding to the legalization of marijuana. As always, election season is an exciting, if exhausting, time. It is a great time to reflect on the role we each play in shaping our state s and our nation s future by considering key issues and making decisions about who is best to represent and lead us. While the Chamber is a nonpartisan organization and does not weigh in on candidates, we do take positions on legislation that will have potential impacts on the business community and the overall economic climate of Colorado. This election season, we voiced support for Amendments S, and we expressed our opposition to Amendment 64 and 65. Amendment 64 calls for the legalization of the recreational use of marijuana meaning that it will be written into our state s constitution that anyone 21 years of age or older can legally possess one ounce of marijuana. There is no question that being the first state to legalize marijuana would be a detriment to Colorado s business and economic brand. California even said no a similar initiative on its ballot. Further, the initiative is in direct conflict with federal law marijuana use and possession is a federal offense still. Finally, it is one more idea that out-of-state of interests are bringing to Colorado and further cluttering our state constitution. Amendment 65 would direct Colorado s congressional delegation and state legislature to support an amendment to the United States constitution allowing Congress and states to limit campaign contributions and spending. The bottom line is that the measure, if passed, will not have any practical effect at all, as state ballot measures cannot force our federal and state elected officials to take specific legislative actions. It s entirely possible Amendment 65 will be ruled unconstitutional no matter how you feel about the Supreme Court case Citizens United, the common sense approach is to vote no on the measure. Amendment S will modernize the state s rigid personnel system so that it will run more like a business and better serve Colorado. The state s personnel rules haven t been updated for more than 40 years, and the current system has led to backlogs in hiring, which among other issues results in unnecessary delays for businesses. This measure does not require an increase in taxes to implement and will create a system that will hire high performers, prioritize veteran hiring and increase accountability. We strongly support our governor s efforts to improve the state s personnel system. In addition to our focus on the current ballot measures, the Chamber and its affiliates have all been hard at work on annual and ongoing projects. The Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation completed another successful Site Selection Conference that showed off metro Denver s assets to eight national site selector consultants who help clients select locations for company headquarters and expansions. You can read more about that conference on page 8. The Leadership Foundation hosted a delegation of 150 metro Denver business leaders in Austin, Texas, for its annual Leadership Exchange (LEX) trip, and you can read more about that work on page 10. The Denver Metro Small Business Development Center brought together seasoned business owners with early-stage entrepreneurs for its second annual Main Street Mentors Walk, and you can read more about one mentor/ mentee relationship on page 6. The public affairs team has been hard at work expanding its offerings of policy committees that allow members to get involved in the big Colorado issues, and you can read more about the new Infrastructure Committee and the Education Committee on page 15. We also are so pleased to welcome incoming Board Chairman John Beeble, chairman and CEO of Saunders Construction, who will lead our board for the fiscal year. We are off to a great start and we look forward to working for you, our members, throughout this year as we continue to build momentum for Colorado s ongoing success. Best regards, Kelly J. Brough President Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce

3 Business Altitude Published four times per year by the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce. Editor Amy J.V. Atwell 4 The Chamber Welcomes John Beeble Staff writers: Michael Bintner Saskia Young Dehring Janet Fritz Kate Horle Holli Keyser Alea Kilgore Kristin Massoletti Kim Roberts Laurie Troge Melissa Viola Design David Baker Design Web site National Site Consultants Tour Region Cracking the Austin Code Unforgettable Pompeii Main Number Mail 1445 Market Street Denver, Colorado To inquire about advertising or to submit a guest article, contact the editor. Cover photo by: Luke Palmisano, Blue House Photography B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E 3

4 John BEEBLE Board Chair by Holli Keyser As the chairman and CEO of Saunders Construction, John Beeble knows a little something about balance. He has helped apply design and architectural balance to several iconic structures in our region, such as the IKEA building, the new DaVita world headquarters at Union Station and the law schools at the University of Denver and the University of Colorado, respectively. To apply the principles of balance is important now more than ever, especially at the Chamber, where complex issues and the need for thoughtful consideration are the rule, said Beeble. It is that philosophy that will guide Beeble during the next year as the chair of the Denver Metro Chamber Board of Directors. Although he wasn t born in Colorado, Beeble has called this state his home since his early childhood. Born in Kansas City, Missouri, Beeble started out life a bit unbalanced. As the child of an Air Force officer, he shuffled around to five different elementary schools and even lived in Anchorage, Alaska. Beeble s family eventually moved to Colorado when he was nine years old. After graduating from Wheat Ridge High School, Beeble enrolled at Colorado State University in Fort Collins. I was on the six-year plan, Beeble joked. Along the way, he studied forestry, environmental law, took some time off to travel in Europe, came back to school and, eventually, found a fit within the construction management field. After graduation, Beeble moved back to Denver to begin his career. One of the things I m really proud of is that my entire 30+ year career has been here in the Denver market in commercial construction. It s what I do, it s what I know, he said. One of the hallmarks of Beeble s career came in 1999, when Dick Saunders approached Beeble and asked him to become the successor of the company he founded. It was an amazing honor and a challenge, and I had to learn to be a CEO from scratch, said Beeble. I always say I got my MBA the 4 B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E

5 hard way, and it s taken me about a decade to get there. Now, Beeble has the formidable opportunity to use the expertise and leadership qualities he s picked up during his career to lead the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce as its 105th chairman of the board. For the year ahead, Beeble will be intentional in accomplishing a shared vision for the organization, focusing on the health of the organization, economic development and the Chamber s pillars education, health care and infrastructure. The Denver Metro Chamber is as strong and vital as any time in its history, said Beeble. In the coming year, I plan to focus my attention inside the walls of the organization on the growth of our membership. As a former chair of Chamber affiliate, the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation, Beeble stresses that the organization must continue to maintain a strong, collaborative focus on regional and statewide issues. The Chamber s economic development arm has been a consistent, balanced voice of collaboration and leadership over the past decade, and we will continue that role in the coming year, he said. Beeble s radar issues include conversations pertaining to the National Western Stock Show, the I-70 corridor, development plans in and around DIA, continued growth of domestic and international routes out of DIA, and moving forward with the spaceport at Front Range Airport. Profile A T A G L A N C E Full Name: John P. Beeble Spouse: Bobbi Jo Children: Annie and Chris Hometown: Wheat Ridge, CO Education: B.S. Industrial Construction Management, Colorado State University Saunders Construction Inc. has been a Chamber member since 1973 Community Involvement: The Association of General Contractors, Colorado Succeeds, Boy Scouts of America, National Sports Center for the Disabled, Good Samaritan Hospital Foundation, World President s Organization, Colorado State University, Regis University As a builder, Beeble said he s biased toward the importance of infrastructure to the community, incorporating all aspects with a regionalist approach. This year, he noted the Chamber will work toward communicating and advocating sound long-term policies of all infrastructure components. It is important that we develop a better sense, as a region, of the multiple aspects of our infrastructure all of the shared physical components that are necessary for sustainable growth, he said. Not only roads and bridges, but also water storage and delivery, power and electrical transmission systems, and publicly owned buildings and communications systems. While Beeble acknowledges he has a full agenda ahead of him this year, the bond between his Colorado career and Colorado family will remain strong. My strongest passion is my family. Colorado has always been my home and we are working on our third generation. Both our kids were raised here and went to Colorado schools. It never occurred to them that there was a better place to live. They are a good commercial for Colorado and the region, Beeble remarked. One of Beeble s proudest moments came just a year ago when his daughter, Annie, was married at the Sun Spot Lodge in Winter Park, nearly 20 years after Beeble s company built the lodge from the ground up. To see your daughter get married in a place that you built it tied both of those parts of my life together. A special moment to say the least, he said. Holli Keyser is the public relations and website specialist for the Chamber. B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E 5

6 Mentoring relationship continues beyond MAIN STREET MENTORS WALK by Kristin Massoletti and Alea Kilgore Don t be married to your ideas, be married to results, is just one piece of advice mentor Andy Seth gave to mentee Yamili Quezada at the second annual Main Street Mentors Walk on August 18, The Main Street Mentors Walk, hosted by the Denver Metro Small Business Development Center, is an annual 5k walk around City Park designed to help budding entrepreneurs like Quezada develop mentoring relationships with seasoned business leaders like Seth. Prior to attending the walk, Quezada was uncertain about the direction of her cleaning business, Clean World Opp, and was considering an alternative career in real estate investing. My mind had hit a roadblock, deviating my path and focus from Clean World Opp, said Quezeda. At the Main Street Mentors Walk, she was paired with mentor Seth, managing partner of the Denver-based wealth management company LotusGroup Advisors LLC. He shared his experience in the investing business to help Quezada make a decision about which direction to take. The investing business takes a great deal of experience, knowledge and hard work to succeed, said Seth. He recommended Quezada refocus her efforts on Cleaning World Opp, hire contracted employees and refine her sales and marketing strategy. Andy identified my skills and strengths and suggested I use them to the company s advantage. Most importantly, he shook my reality in a good way so that I could refocus on the success of the company again Andy identified my skills and strengths and suggested I use them to the company s advantage. Most importantly, he shook my reality in a good way so that I could refocus on the success of the company again, said Quezada. Since the Main Street Mentor s Walk, Seth and Quezada have kept in close contact. Seth referred Quezada to a graphic designer who created a flyer for Clean World Opp at no cost. He helped her develop a low-cost website and assisted her with pricing and referral strategies. He also introduced her to a friend who had successfully sold his own cleaning business. His support has shown proven results, said Quezada. Clean World Opp has gone from having 12 to 30 hours of business per week. I am grateful for his support and am ready to take the next steps in my business Whether seeking guidance, support or reassurance, the Main Street Mentors Walk is a great platform for budding entrepreneurs to voice concerns and receive valuable advice from seasoned business owners who have been in their shoes. Learning from others mistakes and experiences is crucial to accomplish our business goals, said Quezada. We are facing inner struggles without realizing mentors have gone through them as well. Being able to share these feelings and experiences openly with others allows true magic to happen. To learn more about the Main Street Mentors Walk and other small business services, visit Kristin Massoletti is the member services coordinator for the Chamber and Alea Kilgore is the program and marketing coordinator for the Denver Metro Small Business Development Center. 6 B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E

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8 National site consultants tour region, discuss location trends by Jill Altenhofen Eight national site selection consultants attended the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation s (Metro Denver EDC) annual Site Selection Conference Sept , The event was coordinated in partnership with the Metro Denver EDC s investors and economic development partners throughout the ninecounty metro Denver and northern Colorado region. Over the three-day familiarization tour, the site selectors experienced the region s business assets first-hand with the area s top business and economic development leaders as their guides. The first item on their agenda included a private meeting at the Governor s Residence with Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper, where the group discussed the advantages of doing business in Colorado. The following morning at the Pepsi Center, the site selectors listened to a regional briefing and an infrastructure panel with leaders from Xcel Energy, Denver International Airport, the Regional Transportation District and Denver Union Station Project Authority. The consultants also toured the region by helicopter, making stops for an aerospace panel at Lockheed Martin Space Systems with members of the state s space companies and an innovation discussion at the University of Colorado s BioFrontiers Institute with speakers from Google, Level 3 Communications, Sharklet, Siemens, and the Fitzsimons Redevelopment Authority. They also experienced Metro Denver s cultural scene when dining with area companies at the Denver Art Museum. In the conference s final event, site selectors participated in a panel discussion about site selection trends, Making the Cut: Factors Driving Today s Site Selection Decisions. Moderated by Jim Mulligan, partner with Snell & Wilmer and presenting sponsor for the breakfast, the guests spoke about their perceptions since getting an in depth look at the region. Mulligan asked the site selectors how metro Denver stacks up against its other competitor regions. From a global perspective, Denver is in an outstanding position to compete, noted Atlanta-based Will Hearn, senior technologist for CH2M HILL. Universally and across industries, Denver has assets that would be attractive to anyone; especially in high-tech. You also have the 8 B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E

9 magic mix. You can recruit here and you can relocate people here. The panel shared information on the most current trends in the corporate site selection process. Several site selectors noted the prominence of emerging technologies and globalization as critical factors affecting today s site selection. Daniel Kah, a partner at Greyhill Advisors, pointed out the importance of global nonstop flights and international accessibility. Universally and across industries, Denver has assets that would be attractive to anyone; especially in hightech. You also have the magic mix. You can recruit here and you can relocate people here. A nonstop to Asia and nonstop flights to Europe means a lot in the site selection decision, Kah said. It gives Denver a leg up compared to other markets without that access and allows Denver to compete at the same level with other large cities, such as Dallas-Fort Worth, that also have international flights. Colorado has never been a high-incentive state and Mulligan questioned the value of incentives in site selection decisions today. The site selectors mentioned the importance of incentives, but also emphasized that incentives aren t everything, and that factors like workforce and accessibility are often more imperative. economic development partners served as hosts to the visiting consultants. Conference sponsors for each event included: - Dinner at the Governor s Residence - Co-sponsored by Associated General Contractors of Colorado and the Colorado Association of Mechanical and Plumbing Contractors. - Regional Briefing and Infrastructure Panel - Presenting Sponsor, Xcel Energy. Gold Sponsor, Hensel Phelps Construction. - Dinner at the Denver Art Museum - Presenting Sponsor, the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade. Gold Sponsors, Forest City Development and ProLogis. - Breakfast and Panel Discussion - Presenting Sponsor, Snell & Wilmer. Gold Sponsor, US Bank. Silver Sponsors, Mortenson Construction, Intermountain Electric, Newmark Knight Frank Frederick Ross, OfficeScapes, PCL Construction, SAIC, and SOS Employment Group. Media Sponsor, the Colorado Real Estate Journal. Travel Sponsor, Southwest Airlines. - Vail Golf Outing - Sponsor, Intermountain Electric Jill Altenhofen is marketing specialist with the Metro Denver Economic Development Corp. If you are number one, two or three on the list for incentives offered, you re probably covering up for lacking something else, said Jim Kemp, a principal with Hickey and Associates. You don t have to be the top on incentives. The Metro Denver EDC s regional B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E 9

10 by Melissa Viola Cracking the Austin Code F rom catching late-night live sets on Sixth Street to hearing Governor Rick Perry talk economic development, the Denver Metro Chamber Leadership Foundation s 2012 Leadership Exchange (LEX) program to Austin was a 48-hour crash course in what makes the self-proclaimed Live Music Capital of the World tick. Austin is home to the headquarters of Dell and Whole Foods, along with the largest Facebook presence outside Silicon Valley. Austin earned the nickname Silicon Hills because of its thriving startup scene, which is driven by venture capital heavy-weights like Austin Ventures and cultivated through innovative incubators like the Austin Technology Incubator and Capital Factory. In addition to this vibrant tech sector, the city s thriving creative class including everyone from musicians and gamers to filmmakers and fashion designers generates more than $4.35 billion in economic activity annually for the city. The Leadership Foundation chose Austin as the 2012 destination for all of these reasons, and also because Austin and Denver have a lot in common. Both are state capital cities with educated populations, research-oriented universities and entrepreneurial cultures that value high-tech business activity. Studying a city that s similar to our own makes for more relatable, attainable outcomes and there were plenty of takeaways from this program. During the time in Austin, the delegation of 150 business, nonprofit and civic leaders learned the importance of collaboration. For example, the public, private and nonprofit sectors work together to provide services like low-interest loans, health care and insurance to support the creative class. During a trip to Austin s traditionally underserved St. John s neighborhood, which was facilitated by the program s vice chair Christine Benero of Mile High United Way, delegates received a lesson in community-building. The takeaway? Transformative change requires community ownership to be effective and sustainable. Delegates were also impressed by the strength and intentionality of the Austin brand. Every speaker on the agenda spoke the same lingo, which included references to South by Southwest, Austin City Limits, live music and the city s entrepreneurial spirit. 10 B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E

11 Delegates enjoyed presentations from elected leaders (left) and Austin s live music venues (below). The trip s chair Peter Beaupré, PCL Construction Enterprises, said, Austin has a clear and consistent identity music, individuality and creativity. It s a fun place to live and work, and they leverage that scene to their business and financial advantage. It starts as soon as you arrive at the airport, where there are live bands playing in the terminal. Another takeaway? Denver has an opportunity to more clearly define and align its own branding efforts so we are all on the same page when communicating our city s identity. Austin has a clear and consistent identity music, individuality and creativity. It s a fun place to live and work, and they leverage that scene to their business and financial advantage. tangible, as was the case with CAVEA, they are the reason why Denver s leaders are eager to explore and learn from cities like Austin. Learn more about LEX and other Leadership Foundation programs at Melissa Viola is the manager of outreach and alumni relations for the Leadership Foundation. With so many ideas marinating after the Austin program, let s not forget that these takeaways have the power to produce real results. For example: Metro State University s newly opened Center for Advanced Visualization and Experiential Analysis (CAVEA) was inspired by Arizona State University s Decision Theater, one of the locations visited during the 2007 LEX trip to Phoenix. While LEX outcomes may take years to become B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E 11

12 Tameka Montgomery joins the Leadership Foundation Tameka Montgomery recently joined the Denver Metro Chamber Leadership Foundation as its executive director. Prior to assuming her new role at the Leadership Foundation, Montgomery served as executive director of the Chamber s Denver Metro Small Business Development Center, where she managed three offices, a team of 23 staff and consultants, and more than 45 volunteers serving more than 4,000 individuals and businesses each year. Under her leadership, the Denver Metro SBDC achieved success by creating innovative programs and assembling a team of high-quality business advisors and a network of resources. In 2012, the Denver Metro SBDC was named the No. 1 SBDC in the country, besting more than 1,100 centers for the honor. I am excited about shifting my focus from small business development to developing leadership programs that inspire civic engagement, said Montgomery. I am honored that Kelly Brough, the team and the Board of Directors have chosen me to lead such a reputable organization. I look forward to serving the business community, the Chamber and its affiliates in this new capacity. Montgomery holds a bachelor s degree from Spelman College and a master s degree in public administration from Columbia University. In May 2012, Johnson & Wales University conferred upon Tameka an honorary doctorate of business administration in entrepreneurship. 12 B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E

13 Women, Do Something for Yourself: The Importance of Self Checks and Mammograms Contributed by HealthONE Colorado women know how to stay actively dedicated to their families and friends. From finding creative ways to cook healthy meals to cheering your kids on at soccer games, your focus on others could fill two day-planners. Do something for you this month and schedule in a mammogram. There are 2.5 million breast cancer survivors living in the United States. This number increases each year as a result of women being diagnosed at earlier stages, in addition to progressively more sophisticated screening and diagnostic technology. More survivors means escalated hope for those diagnosed with the disease. Although it is difficult to pinpoint specific risk factors for breast cancer, aside from family history, women can stay ahead of the disease by remembering three important steps: self breast checks, mammograms and diagnostic tests. Self Checks All women should be aware of how their bodies change over time. When a part of you is adjusting or just feels wrong, you re the first to know and take action. You should begin performing self breast checks once a month after the age of 21. While you are in the shower, simply raise your arms over your head to easily check for lumps. Mammograms Once you reach 40 years old, it is important to get a mammogram yearly. The mammogram, an x-ray image of the chest, is used by doctors to check for signs or symptoms of breast cancer and to diagnose a lump should it appear. Mammograms are the best medical tests to find breast cancer early because they can detect signs up to three years before women start actually feeling symptoms. There are two types of mammograms: screening and diagnostic. Screening is used for healthy women with no symptoms of breast cancer. It involves taking x-rays of both breasts by placing them each in turn on a plastic plate that presses them together to take an x-ray on the sides and fronts. These images are then transferred onto film to be placed in the woman s medical record. Diagnostic Tests The diagnostic mammogram is used when a lump has been discovered. While a similar process to the screening mammogram, the diagnostic takes longer because it involves more x-rays and higher magnification of where the lump(s) were discovered during the screening mammogram. These x-ray images do not go on film, but are sent directly to the computer for the doctors study toward diagnosis and treatment. The bottom line is to stay in touch with your body. While life, work and family take up most of your time, take a moment for yourself and do a self-check or schedule a mammogram. B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E 13

14 AN MBA IN ENTREPRENEURSHIP by Michael Feinner After several years of working with many business owners, I began to share that, in essence, what we at ActionCOACH do is provide our clients with an MBA in Entrepreneurship. One of the things I ve learned is that, just because someone is the owner of the business, does not mean that they are automatically the best or most qualified person to be running it. The M is really about personal development of the leader(s) of the business. In other words, what it really means and takes to be an effective leader. The M includes their mindset, attitude and ways of thinking so that they will be able to enroll and inspire their team, suppliers and even customers in ultimately implementing the best strategies to build and sustain the business. We believe that business is a game, and while an important game, in order to win in the game of business one must understand the rules, learn how to play it masterfully and have fun. Therefore, the B relates to the proven building blocks and strategies (the fundamental, natural laws and principles) of how to grow a business (that ultimately roll up to time, team and money) so that it is profitable and sustainable. While ActionCOACH has more than 400 business-building strategies that we can evaluate for a business, the key here is to focus on quality over quantity the most appropriate strategies at that time. Often, even when business owners know who they need to be and/or what they need to do in order to get the results they chose, they don t. When someone is not able to hold him or herself accountable (the A) a coach can be that unreasonable friend who will be there to ensure the business owner does in fact achieve what they say they want. Throughout a coaching relationship, the business owner receives the added benefit of their business being the real-world case study in applying what they are learning and seeing first-hand how everything unfolds. This knowledge is priceless, empowering and can be applied to any other businesses the owner may chose to participate in the future as well. Business Owner Empowerment through Coaching by Amy J.V. Atwell With more than 20 years of experience in 41 countries, ActionCOACH knows a thing or two about helping businesses succeed through individual and business coaching, and now the Action- COACH Colorado regional office is bringing some of that unique expertise to Chamber members. Michael Feinner, president and Master Licensee of ActionCOACH Colorado, and his team have partnered with the Chamber s programs department to bring messages of business empowerment to Chamber members in the CEO Exchange program through a four-part workshop series that will take participants through topics including business focus, leadership and team development, marketing and sales, and business leverage. These interactive workshops are based on the idea that a coach does not do the work, but motivates and empowers the individual with information, tools and resources to be able to do the work him or herself. According to Feinner, the coaching process offers business people an MBA in entrepreneurship, where M stands for mindset, B stands for business growth strategies, and the A stand for accountability. Feinner reports that only one in five new businesses make it to its fifth anniversary, and applying some proven fundamentals can increase a business owner s odds of success. Through its partnership with the Chamber, ActionCOACH Colorado and Michael will bring those unique fundamentals to more business owners. In addition to the CEO Exchange workshops, ActionCOACH Colorado will be offering to all Chamber members its GrowthCLUB, a quarterly workshop that enables business owners to step out of their business for a day, get focused and map out a winning game plan for the next 90 days so that the business is on track to meeting both it s short and longer term goals. Also open to all Chamber members is the opportunity to play the Action- COACH game, Leverage, which helps teach business skills using ActionCOACH business growth models in what Michael calls a edutainment format. Stay tuned to the Chamber s website, for details on program dates. To learn more about ActionCOACH Colorado, visit 14 B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E

15 Get Involved in the Chamber s Policy Committees Education Task Force creates forum to discuss education and workforce development Education is one of the pillars identified by the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce that support a thriving business economy and healthy business climate. Not only is the Chamber committed to engaging actively in education policy decisions, it recognizes members interest in participating in education-related discussions. As such, the Chamber was excited to hold the first meeting of the newly formed Education Task Force, which is chaired by Doug Jones, president of the Doug Jones Realty Group, and Kristin Todd, senior vice president, scholarship program, for the Daniels Fund. The Education Task Force is designed to encourage dialogue and engagement around education topics including, but not limited to, education policy, education funding and the collaboration that must take place in Colorado for successful improvements to the state s education system. The Education Task Force will pay particular attention to statewide standards, accountability and outcomes and will focus on the entire education system, from preschool through graduate school. The agenda for this first meeting included a discussion of Coloradans views on education as well as the findings from the School Finance Partnership, while the second meeting explored the issues surrounding teacher preparation. All Chamber members at the Gold Committee level or higher are welcome to participate on the Education Task Force. To maintain the Chamber s focus on business, the Chamber s goal is to maintain a task force membership ratio of approximately 60 percent business, 20 percent not-for-profit and 20 percent public sector. The Education Task Force will meet next on Wednesday, November 7, from 12 to 1:30 p.m. If you are interested in joining the Education Task Force, or have any questions, please visit the Education Task Force page on the Chamber website ( org/page/policy) or contact Mike Bintner at michael. [email protected]. Infrastructure Committee created to cover transportation, water, energy and telecommunications issues The Denver Metro Chamber is excited to announce the Transportation Committee and the Water Task Force have has been broadened to become the Infrastructure Committee. The Infrastructure Committee will focus on transportation related issues, along with water, energy transmission, telecommunications and other infrastructure issues. The committee co-chairs this year will be Bob Sakaguchi of Jacobs and Peter Binney of Merrick & Company. The decision to merge the Transportation Committee and the Water Task Force was an easy one, because of the need to discuss water, energy and telecommunications issues in addition to transportation topics. Water is becoming increasingly important to the region because of the expanded use in residential, industrial, agriculture and energy sector usage. Having an adequate supply of water in the region, as well as a strong overall infrastructure system, is extremely important as Colorado works to attract new companies and jobs to the state. Infrastructure Committee members will hear a wide variety of experts in their respective fields speak on timely topics that are affecting the region. The first Infrastructure Committee meeting took place September 21, Lee Boughey of Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association spoke about energy transmission demand and delivery, and David Little with Denver Water talked about Denver s need for water and future challenges the city faces. If you are interested in the in joining this committee, please contact your membership representative or contact Mike Bintner at michael.bintner@denverchamber. org. B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E 15

16 COLORADO COMPETITIVE COUNCIL: Statewide Outreach by Sara Cassidy Throughout the summer and fall, members of the Colorado Competitive Council (C3) participated in tours and issue briefings to gain context around the industries that drive Colorado s economy. C3 works with chambers of commerce and trade associations to ensure that the business community is connected throughout Colorado. Coordination across regions and industry sectors strengthens the impact of our individual advocacy efforts and the overall business voice. NORTH METRO ENERGY In July, C3 members had the opportunity to tour a natural gas drilling rig and finished production site courtesy of Encana Energy. Leaders from the Aurora, Denver, Fort Collins and Longmont chambers of commerce, as well as the Colorado Association of Realtors and Colorado Dairy Farmers were briefed about the drilling process, status of development of natural resources in the Denver-Julesburg Basin, and information about public and environmental health and safety. The group discussed energy development in general and its critical impact in the state as well as national and international markets. The group learned about hydraulic fracturing and the ability to drill multiple wells from a single pad due to advancements in directional drilling technology. The tour showcased research, development, exploration and production done in the region Other topics included support services, mineral and surface rights, geology, drilling and well completion, production, technology, reclamation, environmental initiatives, alternative energy, education and training. SOUTH METRO AEROSPACE C3 toured Lockheed Martin Space Systems in September to learn more about aerospace and its impact in Colorado. The group was reminded that discoveries in aerospace and information technology shape the way we live and not only from a national security standpoint. The industry produces and enables products and services like communications satellites and GPS, among many others. We were reminded of many reasons Colorado is a center of excellence for aerospace: n Four space-related commands and three military bases with close ties to aerospace companies are located in Colorado n Colorado has the second largest number of private aerospace employees in the nation and is first for private aerospace employment concentration approximately 164,000 jobs are related to aerospace in our state n Lockheed Martin and seven other major space contractors have significant operations in Colorado, plus 400 aerospace-related companies and suppliers n World-class research institutions and laboratories are located here, including: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) and University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR) conduct observation, weather/climate monitoring and weather prediction Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP) designs, builds and controls spacecraft CU-Boulder and Colorado School of Mines fulfills major research role with NASA (CU Boulder is the 2nd largest university recipient of NASA research funding in 2009) 16 B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E

17 NORTHEAST PLAINS AGRICULTURE, TOURISM In September Yuma, Wray, Burlington and many other northeastern Colorado communities hosted nearly 1,000 cyclists who participated in the inaugural Pedal the Plains, a three-day, 168-mile bicycle tour event. C3 Steering Committee members West Yuma Chamber of Commerce played a large role organizing the opening and closing festivities, and the Colorado Farm Bureau worked with the state office of economic development and many partners to arrange educational stops along the tour to build an understanding of agriculture and its role in our economy. The Farm Bureau graciously welcomed me as a proud member of their team. Over the past decade, Denver Water customers have reduced their water consumption by 20 percent, even as the population served has grown by 10 percent. New opportunities to recycle water are also increasing, keeping more treated drinking water in the system for household use. These efforts help foster better stewardship of our limited water. Still, current supplies won t meet the projected demand of a growing population. The historic Colorado River Cooperative Agreement, signed in May 2012, paved the way for Denver Water to begin assessing construction of its Moffat Project. If approved, the Moffat Collection System project would expand Gross Reservoir and nearly triple its capacity from the current 340 feet to 465 feet. NORTH METRO WATER In October, C3 members toured Denver Water s Moffat delivery system, including the 75-year old Moffat treatment plant and Gross Reservoir and Dam. The group gained a greater understanding of Denver Water s distribution structure, including plans to meet future water demand for 25 percent of the state s population through conservation, recycling and development of existing storage. Sara Cassidy is the director of C3. She wrote this article on behalf of the C3 leadership: Chairman Jason Dunn; Vice Chairman Don Childears; and Steering Committee Co-Chairs Diane Schwenke and Rod Slyhoff. B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E 17

18 Chamber Scrapbook Chamber Annual Meeting 2012 Members arriving at the 128th Annual Meeting (above); Cathey Finlon accepting the Del Hock Lifetime Achievement Award (right); the Color Guard kicks off the event (below). 18 B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E

19 Members arriving at the event (above); Chamber Board Chairman John Beeble accepting the gavel from Board Chairman Hassan Salem (above right); Chamber President Kelly Brough leading the audience in a brainstorm on leadership (below). B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E 19

20 Bridging the Digital Divide: How Comcast s Internet Essentials Connects Families to the Global Village of Tomorrow by Cindy Parsons Imagine life without the Internet: no YouTube, no Facebook, no Pinterest! However, the Internet provides much more value than humor, craft ideas and entertainment. The Internet is a lifeline to crucial resources like health information, current events, research for a school or job and online voter registration. For too many Americans, though, Internet access is a luxury available only at school, work or for whatever time the public library may allow. Access to broadband Internet is spreading in the United States, but 19 million Americans still remain without high-speed Internet at home. In Denver, upcoming budget cuts will reduce library hours; further restricting Internet access for those who rely on public institutions. Varying degrees of Internet access and know-how between income brackets, called the digital divide, puts lower income households at a disadvantage by making it more difficult to do everyday tasks like pay bills, search for jobs, complete school assignments or even connect with family and friends. In September 2011, Comcast began working to bridge that divide through Internet Essentials, a program that ensures more Americans have access to, and a working knowledge of, the Internet. Internet Essentials addresses three barriers to broadband adoption: lack of understanding of how the Internet is relevant and can be used, cost of a home computer and cost of Internet service. The program tackles these issues head-on, offering low-cost Internet, computers and digital literacy tools. Qualifying households pay just $10 per month for a broadband connection and have the option to buy a computer at initial enrollment for $150. It doesn t stop at providing the tools Comcast also teaches people how to use them with free Internet training online, in print and in person. Now in its second year, Internet Essentials covers any family with a child receiving free or reduced-price lunches as part of the National School Lunch Program. That means more than 48,000 students in Denver and 2.3 million families in the United States qualify. In its first full year of availability, more than 5,000 families in Colorado enrolled in the program, with Denver Public Schools ranking among the top 10 enrollment districts in the country. In the U.S., nearly 100,000 households (or 400,000 individuals) have signed up. Bill Gates once said, The Internet is becoming the town square for the global village of tomorrow. Thanks to the help of partners like Mayor Michael Hancock, Governor John Hickenlooper, school officials and community-based organizations, Comcast is building that crucial bridge to connect low income children and families to the community of learning the Internet has to offer. For more information, visit Cindy Parsons is the vice president of public relations for Comcast s Mile High Region. 20 B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E

21 The Chamber Welcomes Jennifer Webster In July, Jennifer Webster joined the Chamber team as its senior vice president of public affairs and communications. Webster is a fantastic addition to the Chamber as she has a wealth of government relations experience, developed over 25 years in both the public and private sectors. She is responsible for the development and execution of a local, state and federal government relations and political strategy that reflects and supports the priorities of the organization s 3,000 member businesses. In addition, she steers the execution of an organizationwide internal and external communications plan that benefits the Chamber and its affiliates. Prior to joining the Chamber team, Webster worked at El Paso Corporation, serving as the regional director of state government affairs. In this role, she had the primary responsibility for public policy advocacy on behalf of the company s natural gas pipeline and oil and gas exploration and production operations in the western United States. She came to El Paso from the Colorado Department of Transportation, where she served as the director of government relations, representing the agency before elected officials at all levels of government. During her tenure at CDOT, she worked toward the successful passage of many transportation funding related measures, including a measure to refer the TRANS bonding authority to Colorado voters in The approval of that measure led to the funding of many critical projects statewide, including the $1.68 billion multi-modal T-REX project in metropolitan Denver. Jennifer earned her bachelor s degree in English from the University of Michigan and is no stranger to yelling Go Blue! during the college football season. She and her husband, Stephen, have two children and live in Centennial. Member Anniversaries Happy anniversary to the following Chamber members: The Brown Palace years Saunders Construction - 40 years 16th Street Mall (Downtown Denver Partnership) - 30 years To submit a milestone anniversary or honors/awards announcement, please Editor Amy Atwell at [email protected]. B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E 21

22 New Members The Chamber would like to welcome the following new members. To search for members, visit our online business directory at org/directory or access our interactive membership directory at KYN57k. Acupuncture/Holistic Medicine Acupuncture Associates of Denver Oriental Medicine Clinic Advertising Clear Channel Airports NWS, Inc. O Brien Advertising Advertising Specialties Devterra Mobile Corp. Apartment Referral Service For Rent Magazine Appliances Thurston, Inc. Associations Veterans/Senior Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1 - VFW Post 1 Attorneys/Lawyers Ellis Wright & Ewegen, LLP Auto Brokers Greenwood Automotive Banking Services KeyBank-Denver Champa Beauty Salons and Supplies Laser Beauty Works Luxe Salon Beverages Dudes Brew Business Coaching Door Training and Consulting Business Consultants ATC Consulting Steve Barru Boulder Risk Advisors, LLC Family Enterprise Alliance, LLC Reach Summit Consulting Slalom, LLC dba Slalom Consulting Business Services LoomView Enterprises, LLC Career Services Eat Your Career Caterers All Love Catering Chiropractors Botanica Wellness Sanctuary Cherubini Chiropractic Collection Agencies Absolute Debt Recovery Services, LLC Computer Forensics Forensic Pursuit Computer Training New Horizons Computer Learning Centers of Colorado 22 B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E

23 Concierge and Errand Services SimpleCity Construction and Contractors S. A. Miro, Inc. Corporate and Vacation Travel Management Countries and Crossroads com Credit Repair Prime National Credit Repair Design/Space Planning/Specification Blu Design Group T & J, LLC Document Destruction/Shredding Shred-It Generation Schools Network Olin Business School Elevators ThyssenKrupp Elevator Employment Agencies and Contractors Temps On Demand Energy High Sierra Energy, LP Entertainment Golden Berg Promotions and Entertainment Event Facilities Carolyn Sutton El Jebel Event Center Financial Consultants Brown Welch McAllister, LLP Financial Planning Catherine Schwartz - Waddell & Reed Jones Barclay Boston Financial Services Edward Jones Rocky Mountain Acceptance Flooring Star Floors Fundraising igivefirst Furniture Business Furniture Systems Sleep Number Store Educational Products An Educated World Educational Programs CIEE: Counsel on International Education Exchange Denver Green School Event Planning Downing Events, Inc. Executive Search EFL Associates, Inc. Government Offices - City and County Denver Office of Strategic Partnerships Denver District Attorney s Office Denver Sheriff Department City of Greenwood Village B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E 23

24 Government Offices - State Colorado Governor s Office Department of Personnel & Administration Government Relations Global Sales Advisors Miles Above Strategies Graphic Designers Mile High Design Studios Hazardous Waste Disposal AET Environmental, Inc. Health and Fitness Consultants Plus One Health Management Health Care Fresenius Medical Care Guardian Urgent Care Mountain Medical Injury & Pain Professionals, LLC Heating and Air Conditioning Services All Weather Heating and Cooling LLC com Home Owners Association Park Square at Lowry Townhouse Association Hotels and Motels Springhill Suites Denver Downtown at Metro State Human Resources Outsourcing Avitus Group Individuals Ian M. Currigan Insurance Assurance Risk Managers, Inc. BGI Benefits Clear Creek Insurance and Financial Services, Inc. Family Heritage Farmers Insurance Group Genesis Health Independence American Insurance Company Olson & Olson Ltd Insurance/Warranties StrucSure Home Warranty, StrucSure Insurance Services Internet Marketing Bayshore Solutions SKRP Media Internet Search Engine Yahoo! Internet Software esoft, Inc. Investment Services LotusGroup Advisors, LLC IT Consulting Arco Enterprise IT Solutions LLC TechMinds IT Staffing Kranect Janitorial Services AAA Building Maintenance, LLC Labeling Primeflex Labels, Inc B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E

25 Lasik 20/20 Institute, LLC Law Firm Dufford & Brown, P.C. Long Reimer Winegar Beppler LLP Otis, Coan & Peters, LLC - Attorneys and Counselors at Law Leadership Development Colorao Outward Bound School ConsciousTime Legal Benefits Provider Legal Shield/Kristin Corwin Legal Services Absolute Posting & Process Service, LLC Management Consultants WorkNVision, LLC Manufacturers DualDraw, LLC New Tech Machinery Marketing and Promotions Front Range Mobile Marketing, LLC Sundog Interactive Marketing/Advertising/Public Relations Flat Creek Digital Hellman Associates Ideas Alive Media Mediation Denisa Tova, CFP - Divorce Mediator Medical Equipment and Supplies Gambro Meeting Planning Site Selection Services Mental Health Services WINGS Foundation, Inc. Mobile Media Content KwikTrax Mortgage Services American Liberty Mortgage, Inc FBC Mortgage, LLC Prospect Mortgage nursetta Yellowstone Mortgage, Inc. Moving and Storage Stallion Moving Services LLC Nonprofit American Transplant Foundation Charity s House org Coalition for a Connected West Denver Children s Advocacy Center Metro Denver Partners Mosaic Social Venture Partners Upstream Impact Office Furniture RMRM Business Environments Oil and Gas Products and Services HRM Resources, LLC Credo Petroleum Corporation B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E 25

26 Oxy Inc. Payment Processing Swipe, LLC Pet Dentistry Well Animal Institute Photographers Jordan Fink Photography LLC Print Supplies THINK! Toner & Ink Printing and Publishing Allied Print Group, Inc. Process Servers Gavel to Gavel Process Serving, LLC Promotional Products Colorado Textile Property Management Properties Plus LLC com Publications Flair Magazine Publishers Pelican Publications & Consulting Real Estate / Brokers Wildlife Properties Remax Alliance - Porsha Ridl LiveWithoutBounds Real Estate / Commercial Prudential Commercial Real Estate Grillo Commercial Real Estate com Real Estate / Investments and Management Feiner Enterprises, Inc. Real Estate / Residential Metro Brokers/Paramount Properties (Chris Lynn Inc.) Real Estate Developers The Opus Group Recruiter/Executive dns solutions Inc. TriWorth Restaurants The Kitchen Fado Irish Pub and Restaurant Chinook Tavern Restaurant Rocky Mountain Fresh Enterprises, Inc. NY Boys LLC, dba Borriello Brothers Sushi Hai Restaurant Zi South Restoration Contractors Expert Exteriors LLC Retail Essentia Walmart Neighborhood Market Schools - Private J.K. Mullen High School Plains To Peaks Montessori com Schools - Public CEC Middle College of Denver 26 B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E

27 Schools - Universities and Colleges Concorde Career College Security Guard and Patrol Service Regency Security Services LLC com Security Service and Systems LifeShield Home Security Denver Social Media Strategy Sundance Social Media CauseStir Software Development Techtonic Group Sports Denver Cutthroats Hockey LLC Sports Consulting Don Adam Consulting, LLC Strategic Consultant FulcrumOne Telecommunications Synergy Telecommunications, Inc. Strategic Products & Services KineticWorks, Inc. Mitel Telephone Equipment and Systems DPC Networks Telephones - Cellular New Frontier Communications Tire Dealers Les Schwab Tire Center Training Design and Development Zenith Performance Solutions Translators and Interpreters Pika Sign Language Interpreting Services Keylingo Translations Veterinarian Downtown Animal Care Center Video Production Services JSA Multimedia Virtual Offices Intelligent Office Water Damage Restoration Water Damage of Denver Web Development and Applications 601am, LLC Orange Marketing - Design - Interactive Window Coverings Hunter Douglas Yogurt Yogurtini B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E 27

28 Events For a complete list of events, visit ( Business Before and After Hours Presented by November Business After Hours Nov. 15 5:30 7:30 p.m. Mount Vernon Event Center Mount Vernon Road, Golden A Conversation with Dr. Jandel Allen-Davis, Vice president of government and external relations, Kaiser Permanente Oct. 31 7:30 9 a.m. Business Before and After Hours, with a 24-year history, is one of the Chamber s most successful networking events. This monthly event offers hundreds of Denver metro business men and women a chance to network and develop new business contacts, showcase products and services, while experiencing unique atmospheres offered by different monthly hosts. Business Before and After Hours are open to Chamber member employees only and are free of charge. Please call for more details regarding purchasing a Chamber Member Display or hosting a future Business Before or After Hours. Holiday Business After Hours and Member Appreciation Celebration Dec :30 p.m. Wright Group Event Services 4800 Colorado Blvd., Denver NEW! Gold Networking November 1 5:30 7:30 p.m. Sushi Hai 3600 W 32nd Ave. Denver Gold Networking is an exclusive after hours business event that focuses on our C-level members and their business needs. It is open to Gold-level members and above at no charge. Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce Board Members will also be in attendance. Gold Program: Water 101 Dec. 6 7:30 9 a.m Market Street, Denver Join us to hear from a panel of water experts as they discuss water doctrines and their impact on Colorado businesses. Energy Professionals in Colorado Dec. 13 7:30-9 a.m. The Chamber and the Colorado Energy Coalition partner for this quarterly series with the latest information on the ever-changing energy industry. Boots n Business January a.m. 1:30 p.m. The Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce and the National Western Stock Show team up for a hoof-stomping and whip-cracking good time in January. This luncheon event, specifically catering to the business community, is designed 28 B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E

29 to promote the Stock Show s importance to our economy and quality of life. The event annually attracts a sell-out crowd of nearly 900 business people, state and local elected officials, and Chamber leadership. Colorado Business Hall of Fame January p.m. Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center Each year, the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce and Junior Achievement partner to honor legends of business in the Colorado community by inducting them into the Colorado Business Hall of Fame. This black-tie dinner has grown to be one of Denver s premier business events and provides an excellent opportunity for networking and client entertainment. Contact Sonya Pritchard for sponsorship or ticket information: sonya.pritchard@ denverchamber.org or Save the Date! State of Small Business Feb. 7, :30-9 a.m. Four Seasons Hotel Business and Personal Development Programs Success in your business is a direct result of what you know and who you know. Your active participation in the Denver Metro Chamber gives a big boost to both. The Chamber offers professional development programs for people in all phases of their careers, from early-career professionals to senior executives. To find out more about the programs available to you as a Chamber member, including Manager Exchange, CEO Exchange and the Gold Member Alliance Program, go to: Featured sessions: Chamber 101 graduation December 1 Training The Business Training Institute at the Denver Metro Small Business Development Center offers ongoing small business development classes. Visit for a complete class list. Upcoming class topics include: Designing a Winning Business Model Kickstarter Crowdfunding Navigate Your Customers Thoughts with Neuroscience Overhaul Your Customer Loyalty Program Measuring Meaningful People Change Grow Your Business Like a Billion-dollar Brand We are currently accepting Business Awards applications. The deadline to apply is February 15. Go to to apply B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E 29

30 Coloradan saved 97 percent on an urgent prescription with the Colorado Drug Card by Charles Barnes Susan S. had a big problem. She needed to pick up a prescription of Zyprexa for her mom, which is used to treat the symptoms of schizophrenia (a mental illness that causes disturbed or unusual thinking, loss of interest in life and strong or inappropriate emotions) in adults and teenagers 13 years of age and older. The problem, Susan s insurance does not cover Zyprexa, so her prescription was going to cost her $1,040 a month more than Susan s house payment. The pharmacist at Walgreens suggested that she try the free Colorado Drug Card. The Chamber launched the Colorado Drug Card five years ago as a way to help address the rising costs of health insurance and to help those who do not have insurance. The card is a free prescription drug and benefit card that will help people save 10 to 75 percent on prescription drugs. This program is open to all Colorado residents and carries no membership restrictions, no income requirements, no age limitations and no applications to fill out. The cards are available in both English and Spanish. Those with or without insurance can use the Colorado Drug Card to save money on a variety of items; not just prescription drugs. The card can also be used to save money on eyeglasses, diabetic supplies, professional teeth whitening, Lasik surgery and hearing aids. How does it work? For people who do not have insurance: The card is pre-activated, so all you have to do is take it with you to your local pharmacy (you can find a pharmacy online at Your pharmacist will run the card and you will save money on your prescription. For people who do have insurance: Take the pre-activated card to any of the participating pharmacies and ask them to run both the Colorado Drug Card and your insurance card to let you know which has the better discount. As for Susan S., with the Drug Card, her $1,040 prescription was only $35. She saved $1,005, or 97 percent. In fact, over the past five years, Coloradans have saved $32.1 million with the Colorado Drug Card. Make sure your employees know about the free, easy-touse benefit of the Colorado Drug Card. You can insert information about the card with their paychecks, make the Colorado Drug Card available in common areas at your office and include the Colorado Drug Card with information provided to newly hired employees. This program will save your employees money and your company money as well. You can download your free Colorado Drug Card at or contact Charles Barnes at or [email protected]. Barnes will be happy to provide as many cards as you need and include a letter from your organization to your employees. Charles Barnes is the campaign and revenue development manager for the Chamber. 30 B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E

31 The Denver Metro SBDC welcomes Abram Sloss The Denver Metro Small Business Development Center (SBDC) welcomed Abram Sloss as its new executive director on October 1. Sloss most recently worked at the City of Denver, implementing continuous improvement efforts and streamlining service delivery. His background includes running a small business, consulting for two different small business development centers and experience with large business consulting firms, including PriceWaterhouseCoopers. His passion for Colorado and growing the state s economy through small business is evident in his work with organizations large and small as they strive to innovate for success. I m excited to be part of a tremendous team that s committed to the entrepreneurial spirit, said Sloss. This is a remarkable network, and I am humbled by the opportunity. Sloss holds both a bachelor s degree and a master s in business from the University of Iowa. Abram s energy, enthusiasm and experience will help propel our SBDC to the next level, said Kelly Brough, president and CEO of the Chamber. I am confident that our SBDC is working toward new innovations in collaboration and growth under Abram s guidance. We are all thrilled to welcome Abram into the Colorado SBDC Network, said Kelly Manning, state director of Colorado s SBDC network. He will bring a wealth of new ideas and experience to an already amazing program. We are looking forward to new innovative initiatives under his leadership. ARE YOU THE PIECE WE ARE MISSING? What makes the difference is you. You create opportunity. You instill confidence. You belong. You innovate. You matter. To join the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce and receive a special offer, visit or call DMC11002-MembrshpAd8.38x5.44.indd 1 B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E 31 2/8/11 11:36 AM

32 O N T H E T O W N Unforgettable POMPEII Visitors interact with the historical enactors that dress in period clothing and portray characters from Ancient Rome inside A Day in Pompeii at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. by Kim Roberts and Camille Loveday If you have ever dreamed of experiencing the Roman Empire, now you have the opportunity, right here in Denver. Beginning on September 14 and running through January 13, 2013, the Denver Museum of Nature and Science is bringing Pompeii to the Mile High City with the exhibition A Day in Pompeii. It is an interactive experience that chronicles the events of August 24, 79 A.D., when Mount Vesuvius erupted and buried the city of Pompeii in volcanic ash. The unique way the city was destroyed left it untouched for centuries and the artifacts gloriously preserved. It is a portal back in time to experience the everyday life of the Roman population and to understand one of the most destructive volcanic eruptions in history. Pompeii was a city not far from Naples and a wellknown vacation spot for the elites of the Roman Empire. It was a bustling metropolis in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius, with a population completely unprepared for the events of that fateful August day. The eruption lasted 24 hours and was approximately 10 times larger than the Mount St. Helens eruption in The pinnacle of the eruption saw magma, ash and deadly gas released at a rate of 100,000 tons every second. It shot 20 miles into the air and ash fell as far away as Africa. The eruption also destroyed the nearby town of Herculaneum with an extremely hot and fast moving mixture of volcanic material called a pyroclastic surge. The city lay buried under more than a dozen feet of ash until the 1700s when it was discovered and became one of the world s greatest archaeological sites. Statues, jewelry and everyday household items were all found just as they were on the day of the eruption. During excavations beginning in 1860, archaeologist Giuseppe Fiorelli was able to make plaster casts that enabled us to see the people and animals exactly as they were when the debris from the eruption overtook them. A Day in Pompeii showcases these items and transports you back to the day of the eruption. The exhibit 32 B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E

33 A Day in Pompeii is an emotional and educational experience brought to life wonderfully by the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. Visitors will uncover the treasures of a city steeped in legend andexamine casts of the volcano s victims frozen in their last moments in A Day in Pompeii at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. begins with a statue of Venus inviting you into the city of Pompeii. An aerial view of the city in all its glory before the eruption gives you a sense of the beauty and life it contained. There are enchanting garden frescoes and statuary, amazingly preserved by the ash. There are more than 250 artifacts on display. Along with the objects themselves, there are interactive stations where you can really gain a sense of the time. Most enjoyable is a re-creation of a thermopolium, the ancient equivalent of a fast food restaurant. At the counter is one of the historical enactors that enhances the exhibit with a wealth of information on daily life in Pompeii. Another highlight is a digital recreation of the of Pompeii s final 24 hours. The final room holds the most haunting part of the exhibit, the plaster casts of the victims in their last moments. You can see their expressions and feel their anguish. both visited Pompeii in Italy spoke of how they learned more from the exhibit than they did being at the actual Pompeii site. A Day in Pompeii is an emotional and educational experience brought to life wonderfully by the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. Information on tickets, hours and admission can be found at or by calling Kim Roberts is the receptionist for the Chamber and Camille Loveday is her friend. After speaking with several visitors, it was clear how well the information was presented. Two women who had B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E 33

34 C O M M U N I T Y S P O T L I G H T Turkey Trot2012 by Kate Horle There are few opportunities in life where adults of rational mind and fit body are encouraged to dress up in costumes reminiscent of Thanksgiving and then run four miles to a beer garden. The Mile High United Way ( Turkey Trot race is one of those rare moments. For the past 39 years, most of them in Denver s Washington Park, approximately 10,000 men, women and children have participated in this race, which benefits United Way s school readiness, youth success and adult self-sufficiency programs. Visit for a video of last year s extravaganza. I have done this race somewhere in the neighborhood of five or six times over the past decade, occasionally in the brutal cold (which makes the beer in the garden far more accessible), but more often in the cool sunlight of late autumn. My husband and I look forward to it we have a tradition of dropping off our portion of Thanksgiving dinner, and our children, at my parent s house and then carpooling to the race. It s a great way to somehow lessen the inevitable guilt of mashed potatoes and gravy, pumpkin cheesecake and at least three of my mother s homemade rolls. Overindulgence aside, the magic of this race is not the course, or even the beer, but the contribution opportunity to United Way. [This race] is a tradition for individuals and families to do on a special day, said Benny Samuels, vice president of communication and strategy for United Way. The organization s goals are imbedded in families and in our community. Denver s United Way was the first in the nation (much like so many other national organizations Coloradans seem to be the innovators that think of great things first) and has just celebrated 125 years of working with and for the Denver metro community. I always think its founding starts like a bad joke a woman, two priests, two ministers and a rabbi came together in 1887 to create the charity organization that would become today s Mile High United Way. Now a national organization, United Way is a key charitable organization in hundreds of communities across the nation. United Way is extremely efficient with the dollars it raises for every dollar you spend on registration, 85 cents goes back into the community and the race is the organization s largest fundraiser. This is the first year that racers can chase pledges from family and friends to increase their total contribution. The race is always looking for volunteers so join me, either as a runner or a volunteer, and don your favorite pilgrim hat to run around Washington Park twice and benefit a great organization. Sign up here: ly/msxfpx. Kate Horle is director of communications and marketing for the Chamber. 32 B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E

35 2013 Adventures Await by Laurie Troge Chamber Getaways is gearing up for an exciting line-up in With 18 trips already on the schedule and even more to come, we truly have something for everyone. As the cold weather moves in, imagine yourself sitting on the beautiful beaches of Fiji or Costa Rica during snow season. Kick off your summer with an incredible hike across the Alps or a visit to many of Colorado s backcountry huts. We have a number of trips that require no more planning than deciding what to wear and how early to arrive at the airport for departure, so sign up and let us take care of the details. In addition to our tour-based travel, Chamber Travel is expanding to include Chamber Adventures, more experience-based trips. Expanding from the classic tours, you can now eat and drink your way through Argentina, spend spring break golfing in Arizona or kayak in Croatia. All you have to do is sign up and show up, and the travel company takes care of all equipment, lodging, food and transportation. So why travel with the Chamber? The tour companies we use have been tested and we know they provide great trips. We work with companies that book many trips, which allows us to negotiate very low rates. Previous travelers rave about the trips and many have traveled with the Chamber two or three times. You get to experience remarkable places with wonderful people. Here is what some of our previous travelers have had to say: Dubai What an amazing trip at such a great price. I never thought I would see Dubai, and to see it with fellow travelers from Colorado was an amazing experience. China This was a great trip. We all had a good time. I look forward to going on more Chamber trips in the future. Amalfi Coast This tour was a pleasure throughout, and our small group of 16 was quite compatible. This tour also was flexible in scheduling it allowed us to avoid three cruise ships on Capri and go there on a day that was not crowded very commendable. India My wife and I had an outstanding time during our trip to India. The itinerary was fabulous, and our guides were very knowledgeable and professional. The sites we visited were absolutely amazing. We were blessed to be part of a great group, especially our friends from Denver, and it was amazing to meet really fantastic people during our time there. More than 250 people have already traveled with the Chamber to places across the globe, you could be next. Visit org/page/chambertravel and ChamberAdventures to learn more about our upcoming trips. Laurie Troge is executive assistant for the Chamber. B U S I N E S S A L T I T U D E 33

36 Harnessing the power of the sun is easier when you re closer to it. It could be said that Colorado s solar companies and projects have an unfair advantage since the sun s rays travel a mile less to reach them. So it s little wonder the cleantech industry is fl ourishing here. Innovation is driven by a vibrant ecosystem of energy technology and research universities, the nation s second-most highly educated workforce, and a progressive 30 percent Renewable Energy Standard that turn ideas into reality. Visit to learn more about locating your solar energy business in North America s clean energy hub.