Monday, August 5, 2013

Rocky Mountain Innosphere Launches New Office at CREED in Golden, CO to Support Cleantech Startups

Press Release

Rocky Mountain Innosphere, the non-profit technology incubator with headquarters in Fort Collins, CO is pleased to announce the launch of their new office, “Innosphere at CREED” which expands Innosphere’s cleantech program throughout all of Colorado by supporting startups who will provide the next generation of clean, renewable, and efficient energy technologies. The new office is located in Golden, CO at the Colorado Center for Renewable Energy Economic Development (CREED). CREED is co-located with the U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s (NREL), which is the only federal laboratory dedicated to the research, development, commercialization and deployment of renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies.

Innosphere’s Access to Capital program, corporate partners, relationships with test facilities, physical space and business guidance expertise is what sets Innosphere’s program apart from other incubator models. “Rocky Mountain Innosphere’s presence at CREED is a valuable part of our cleantech ecosystem,” said Richard Adams, NREL Manager for Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center. “Innosphere will support NREL’s efforts in providing business support for emerging cleantech companies as well as commercializing technologies.”

“We really appreciate all the support from our current and new investors that allow us to expand our reach and serve more companies in the cleantech arena,” said Doug Johnson, Innosphere VP of Capital Access. “We have support from the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT); Brownstein, Hyatt, Farber, Schreck; the City of Golden; Jefferson County; NREL; the Canadian Consulate; Global Prairie and Colorado Business Bank. They are all strong supporters of the cleantech industry and see the potential it has to create jobs.” Innosphere also works closely with industry clusters such as the Colorado Clean Energy Cluster and the Colorado Water Innovation Cluster, making this incubator the right choice for emerging energy, water, and transportation startups.

“The space between being a cleantech entrepreneur and having a full-fledged company is full of both opportunities and pitfalls,” said Rob Writz, Innosphere’s Director of Clean Technology Programs. “To help Colorado entrepreneurs bridge those gaps, Innosphere’s Cleantech Program provides support to companies that are at the early stages of growth.  I’m excited to be a part of an organization that enables a cleantech innovation ecosystem in Colorado.”

The expansion of Innosphere’s incubator programs and services to support cleantech startup companies across the Front Range and state of Colorado speaks to the value Innosphere is adding to the economy in the entrepreneurial startup space. “Innosphere has demonstrated a successful business model over the past 14 years and is now at a point where they can expand their cleantech program beyond Northern Colorado,” said Johnson. “Given the emerging technologies coming out of NREL, combined with the talent coming out of the universities such as CU, CSU and Colorado School of Mines, this is an ideal time to incubate promising startups through Innosphere’s proven incubator model that focuses on mentoring, capital, strategy and growth.”

About Innosphere

Accelerating job creation and entrepreneurship, Rocky Mountain Innosphere is a 501c3 nonprofit technology incubator formed to accelerate the development and success of high-impact scientific and technology startup companies. In promoting the development of a regional entrepreneurial ecosystem, Innosphere currently provides support to 39 entrepreneurial startup companies with resources such as assistance with raising capital, help in assembling solid management teams, access and connections with academic and government institutions, a network of advisors and mentors, discounted professional service providers, and educational and networking opportunities. Rocky Mountain Innosphere has two physical locations: headquarters in Fort Collins, Colorado and the Innosphere at CREED office located in Golden, Colorado which serves to expand Innosphere’s cleantech program throughout all of Colorado by supporting startups who will provide the next generation of clean, renewable, and efficient energy technologies.

Wednesday, July 31, 2013

Yampa Valley Crane Festival, September 6-9, 2013

Press Release

Announcing the second annual Yampa Valley Crane Festival in Steamboat Springs and Hayden, Sept. 6-9, 2013

Four days of free events celebrating the region’s magnificent Sandhill Cranes!

The second annual Yampa Valley Crane Festival takes place in Steamboat Springs and Hayden from September 6-9, featuring crane viewing sessions, expert speakers, films, family activities, a crane art show, and more. All scheduled events are open to the public and free.

“After the inaugural year’s resounding success, we know this festival will continue to give people a better understanding and enjoyment of the cranes that breed, roost, and stage in the Yampa Valley. This is a chance to learn more about crane science, explore the art that these magnificent birds inspire, and get out on the ground to enjoy their company,” says Nancy Merrill, festival organizer and President of the Colorado Crane Conservation Coalition, Inc.

A highlight of the festival will be the talks given by three outstanding crane experts. Internationally renowned conservation photographer Michael Forsberg will present a slideshow and talk entitled “From Cranes to Plains- A Photographer’s Journey Connecting the Heart of a Continent.” Wildlife biologist Rod Drewien, considered the world’s expert on the Rocky Mountain Greater Sandhill Crane population, will focus on his work over the years with this sub-species. An update on the White-naped Crane conservation project in Mongolia will be presented by U.S. Forest Service Rocky Mountain Region Avian Program Coordinator Robert Skorkowsky.

Additional festival highlights include guided bird/nature walks in some of the Yampa Valley’s most magnificent settings, children and family activities, a Crane Art Show at The Depot which opens during the First Friday Artwalk in Steamboat Springs, and daily guided crane viewing opportunities around the valley. 

Sandhill Cranes are an iconic species of the Yampa Valley and Northwest Colorado. For years, a group of enthusiastic birders and nature lovers has gathered each fall at a small ranch near Hayden, Colorado, to watch the cranes – both the adults and their young – forage for food, dance in the fields, and practice flying in anticipation of their grand migration south to warmer wintering territory. The sights and sounds of these spectacular birds on their fall staging ground in the Yampa Valley led some to dream about an event in which locals and tourists would gather together to learn about this population of cranes and to celebrate their presence in Northwest Colorado. The Colorado Crane Conservation Coalition, Inc. turned the dream into a reality.

Colorado Crane Conservation Coalition (CCCC) is dedicated to the conservation and protection of Sandhill Cranes in Colorado. Yampa Valley Crane Festival is presented by the CCCC, with help from partners including the Bud Werner Memorial Library, The Nature Conservancy, Yampa Valley Land Trust, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, USDA Forest Service, Yampatika, and many other local businesses and organizations.

“Cranes evoke strong emotions in humans and enrich our lives by their presence. This festival will inspire people to continue protecting this amazing creature and its habitat,” says Barbara Hughes, CCCC co-founder.

Yampa Valley Crane Festival’s daily schedule of festival events is posted at www.coloradocranes.org.

Tuesday, July 9, 2013

One Military United and Colorado Cutthroat Connection to Host Gaming Night and "Cocktails with a Cause" to Benefit Colorado-Based Project Sanctuary

Press Release

One Military United is teaming up with Colorado Cutthroat Connection (C3) to host the 1st Annual Gaming for a Greater Good on July 27 from 12-6 p.m. at Epernay Lounge in Denver. Featuring games such as HALO 4, Call of Duty: Black Ops 2, Injustice - Gods Among Us, and more, the event will offer a variety of options for gamers. Cash prizes and giveaways are at stake for both tournament and casual play.

Cocktails with a Cause will be hosted by One Military United the following evening, July 28, at the Cherry in Cherry Creek North, Denver. The lighthearted mix-and-mingle event will showcase drink specials, great music and a unique "Night Out with a Hero" auction. Guests will also have a chance to speak with the founder of Project Sanctuary, the Commander of VFW Post 1 and elected state officials. 

All proceeds from both events will benefit Project Sanctuary to provide the necessary resources for One Military United's featured military family - the Mitchells - to attend a retreat.

"As the wars abroad wind down, we have to focus on the ones here in our homes," said Lacy L. McDonald III, SSG, USAR and founder of One Military United. "Events like these give me the opportunity to help my brothers and sisters in arms, giving them the knowledge and help we all need after sacrificing so much."

"The support of partner organizations like One Military United and military-supporting companies like Colorado Cutthroat Connection is so critical to our success in reconnecting and healing our military families," said Heather Ehle, Project Sanctuary founder and executive director. "With over 1,400 military families on the waiting list for one of our therapeutic retreats, we are committed to providing services for as long as there are families in need of them. Events like these make it possible for us to fulfill that commitment."

Pre-registration, vendor information, and sponsorship opportunities for Gaming for a Greater Good are available online.

Tickets for Cocktails with a Cause will be $10 and available for purchase at the door. 

In addition to One Military United and C3, Project Sanctuary thanks the following sponsors of Gaming for a Greater Good: Nicholas Voronkov with REDwave Entertainment, Denver Improv, Robert John McDonald, Andrea Mayness Photography, TPS Staffing, BAC Appliance Center, Royal Guard Security, Cherry, and Epernay Champagne Lounge.

Wednesday, June 12, 2013

Beaudin Ganze Announces New Hires

Press Release

Beaudin Ganze Consulting Engineers, Inc.  (BGCE) announced today the recent addition of four new employees. The new additions join BGCE to further contribute to the company’s success in providing engineering and commissioning services across the Western Region.

John A. Van Gulik, LEED® AP: John’s twenty-plus years of experience in business development, marketing and sales of engineering, design and construction services made him a perfect fit for the role of Business Development Manager at BGCE. He holds a B.S. in Nuclear Engineering from Oregon State University and has facilitated business opportunities and sales for firms in a variety of sectors including commercial building design and construction (public & private); healthcare facilities design and construction and recently, renewable energy projects.

Hillary R. Hanson: Hillary holds a B.A. in Creative Writing from Emory University and joins the BGCE team after accomplishing marketing, writing and sales success in the wedding industry. Her writing has been published in a variety of local and national publications including The Denver Post and WeddingWire.com. As the company’s new Marketing Coordinator, Hillary produces and edits a variety of published materials, supports the firm with general marketing endeavors and manages BGCE’s social media. She is currently in pursuit of a Web Development Certificate at Red Rocks Community College and is working with BGCE’s marketing team to launch its new website.

Jeremy Dory: Jeremy holds a degree in Computer Information Systems from Red Rocks Community College and joins BGCE with thirteen years of experience as a Systems Administrator. He works with a wide variety of technologies including Windows, Linux and Unix.

Patrick H. Watkins, P.E., FPE, LEED® AP: The Albuquerque office of BGCE was pleased to welcome Patrick a seasoned Mechanical Engineer whose B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of New Mexico, FPE Certification and LEED Certification make him a considerable asset to the growing firm. Patrick has worked on a variety of structures including the Thornburg Campus in Santa Fe, the Andaluz Hotel and the New Mexico Military Institute’s Dow Hall renovation, all of which received LEED Gold Certification and are regarded as some of the most energy-efficient structures in the country. Patrick currently works on a variety of higher education and healthcare facilities for BGCE.

About Beaudin Ganze Consulting Engineers, Inc.

As an industry leader in LEED, commissioning, energy audits, mechanical, electrical, lighting and technology engineering services, BGCE continues to grow with offices in Denver, Fort Collins and Vail, Colorado; Albuquerque, New Mexico; and Jackson, Wyoming.  Sustainable design for reduced operating and maintenance costs is fundamental to the firm’s practice.  Since inception in 1991, BGCE has grown to 50 staff members, of which 25 are Professional Engineers and 75% are LEED Accredited Professionals.  For more information about Beaudin Ganze Consulting Engineers please visit www.bgce.com

Monday, June 10, 2013

Peak 7 Vodka makes award-winning entry into fast-growing micro distillery market

Press Release

Denver, Colo - Peak 7 Vodka today announced its entry into
the thriving Colorado micro-spirits market. The event will be celebrated with an official launch party June 23 at Mile High Distillery in Denver.

The seven-times distilled Peak 7, made at Mile High Distillery, was already recognized as medal-winning vodka at the 2013 Denver International Spirits Contest March 2-3. Twelve prominent spirits professionals judged the double-blind tasting, and Peak 7 Vodka was awarded a bronze for best vodka.

"We are Colorado people who want to make a Vodka that reflects the culture and vibrancy of Denver and the Rocky Mountains," said Peak 7 co-founder Dave
Collier,  "We think Colorado's the best place on Earth you can live, and the best place on earth to make great vodka."

Colorado is already well-known as a leader in the craft-brewing movement, which saw several local brews rise to iconic status in the brewing world.

Colorado's booming craft-spirits industry is following a similar trend, and Peak 7 Vodka, made with Rocky Mountain spring water, is gaining a loyal following in Colorado's micro-movement.

The Vodka, which is crafted with a proprietary blend of corn and wheat to achieve a unique balance of smoothness and taste, is available at select locations throughout the Front Range including Mondo Vino, The Austin's American Grill restaurants, The Moot House, and Enzio's Italian Kitchen.
Peak 7 has partnered with Elysium to distribute Peak 7 to the many fine establishments that are embracing the micro-distillery movement in Colorado.

"All things being equal, there are a lot of people who would rather buy locally-made spirits," Peak 7 co-founder Desi Lopez said. "We're delivering that high-end quality that people have come to expect from some of the major European brands, but we're doing it with vodka made right here in our home
city."

For more about Peak 7 Vodka, visit www.peak7vodka.com.

Monday, April 22, 2013

GEI Consultants Welcomes Water Resources and Environmental Industry Veteran Mark Scott

Press Release (RhinoPR.com)

Mark M. Scott, P.E. 
GEI Consultants, Inc., one of the nation’s leading geotechnical, environmental, water resources, and ecological science and engineering firms, announced today that Mark M. Scott, P.E. has joined the firm as a senior consultant, and water resources, environmental and business solutions leader based in Denver.

As a 31-year veteran water resources engineer, project leader, client service manager, and program manager, 28 of which were in Colorado, Mr. Scott’s expertise lies in water/wet infrastructure, environmental planning/remediation, business solutions, construction services and information management for complex mid-size and large projects. Prior to joining GEI, he served as central region federal manager and client services manager for MWH and was the project manager and engineering lead for a large National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) EIS project.

In addition to having worked with numerous municipalities and state agencies throughout the Rocky Mountain Region, Mr. Scott’s career includes Colorado-based, regional, and national federal project experience with the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, National Guard, and the Departments of Interior, Energy, and Homeland Security. “Mark’s record is one of technical excellence, innovative solutions, strong project execution and superior client service,” said Michael Gatzow, GEI senior vice president and central region manager. “He is highly regarded throughout Colorado and the central United States, and we look forward to Mark supporting GEI clients across the region.”

Mark received his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of the Pacific in Stockton, Calif. and is a registered professional engineer in Colorado and California. Industry involvement includes membership in the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME); Professional Engineers of Colorado; the American Water Works Association (AWWA); Sustainable Fort Carlson; the Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce; and Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments.

About GEI Consultants, Inc.

GEI's multi-disciplined team of engineers and scientists deliver integrated geotechnical, environmental, water resources and ecological solutions to diverse clientele nationwide. The firm has provided a broad range of consulting and engineering services on over 35,000 projects in 50 states and 22 countries. For more information, please visit the firm’s web site at www.geiconsultants.com.

Thursday, March 14, 2013

Wildwood Casino Evolves Brand to Represent Upscale Guest Experience

Press Release

Wildwood Casino in Cripple Creek, Colo., Cripple Creek’s newest and largest casino, is upping the ante with the latest evolution of their branding initiatives. The updated brand reflects the upscale experience available at the casino, including Vegas-style gaming and dining.

The brand evolution, a movement toward simple sophistication, will include a welcoming color palette, subtle patterns, playful language and more refined photography. The evolution focuses on a clean elegance, while still maintaining an approachable, warm feel, and will further demonstrate the quality of the experience at Wildwood.

“We’ve had a lot of exciting changes here at Wildwood Casino, including updates to both the casino and GKMI,” said Kevin Werner, General Manager of Wildwood Casino. “We’re proud to have a more sophisticated, upscale brand look to correspond with these changes, and we know this brand refresh will appeal to current, as well as future casino guests.”

The brand evolution will appear across many different mediums including print, online, television and radio, as well as throughout the casino itself. The brand evolution follows updates to the existing casino and hotel to improve the overall experience for casino guests. The casino also has plans for additional changes that will continue to improve the guest experience.

The brand evolution was created by Austin-based MOSAK Advertising & Insights, Wildwood’s agency of record since the casino opened in 2008.

About Wildwood Casino
Wildwood Casino is Cripple Creek’s newest and largest casino encompassing a 58,000 square-foot facility with 500+ slot machines, live action poker tables, blackjack, craps & roulette, dining options including Mavericks Buffet and Saddle Bar, a 67-room hotel and a 225,000 square-foot enclosed climate-controlled parking garage.

For more information about Wildwood Casino visit www.playwildwood.com or call 719-244-9700.