The Seed Announces New Alliance Partners

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Innovative Technology Creates Online Platform for Five Organizations

The Seed, the collaboration and connection platform for women and resources, announces its new Alliance Partners: American Business Women's Association-Downtown Denver (ABWA), Denver Tech Center Colorado Business Women (DTC-CBW), Hip Housewives, and Colorado Office of Economic Development & International Trade, and Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network.

“We are excited to announce our new Alliance Partners for The Seed,” commented Erin Seabold, co-founder of The Seed. “The purpose of building alliances with community and corporate partners is to give our members the opportunity to find the tools, resources, and information that they need in one convenient place. Through our partners, we envision thousands of connections taking place that will assist our members in building and maintaining a sustainable business through long term relationships.”

Budget and resource issues have restricted some organizations from publicizing tools and resources available to assist business owners in succeeding. With the advent of social networking, interactive web-based collaboration has become an immediate priority for organizations. However, the budget to create and maintain this technology has proven to be a burden due to cost.

“We will assist our Alliance Partners by creating an online platform for various entities with a similar goal of supporting women, business owners and resources,” said Seabold. “Our goal is to have this platform used by these resources everyday to communicate to their constituents.”

The Seed will assist its Alliance Partners in communicating opportunities through The Seed’s press coverage, newsletters, blogs, posts and feeds in order to reach a larger constituency with greater impact, drive usage of alliance partner tools and resources, and increase attendance at local events.

For more information, visit www.TheSeedConnection.com.

About The Seed

The Seed focuses on assisting women in identifying and connecting with the resources that they will need to build a successful business. The Seed creates a collaborative platform for government, educators, corporations, entrepreneurs and individuals to come together and share information in one convenient location. As members of The Seed Society, women are matched to resources and fellow women in business, based on what they are looking for now, tomorrow, and in the future. To see how you can promote your business to other women and businesses around the world for only $60 annually, visit www.TheSeedConnection.com.

Renew255 Showcases Three Floors of Healthy Living

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Joint Grand Opening Event will Benefit Operation Smile

Four businesses—Avanti, bod:evolve, the office of Carrie Louise Daenell, ND, and the office of Brian Willoughby, MD—at 255 Detroit Street in Denver will host a joint grand opening for their businesses on Thursday, January 14 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The event will benefit Operation Smile.

“As we enter the New Year, our thoughts turn to resolutions and renewing our health from the inside out,” commented Brian Willoughby, MD, owner of the building. “The four businesses located at 255 Detroit offer the very best in skincare, cosmetic surgery, naturopathic medicine, and much more.”

With a theme of healthy living, the event will consist of a cocktail party encompassing the three floors of the building. Attendees will enjoy an “antioxidant bar,” healthy passed hors d’oeuvres, creative cocktails, and gift bags.

For $20, guests can register to win “A Day of Beauty,” which are three prizes valued at $250, $500, and $1,000. The proceeds from this and other donations will directly benefit Operation Smile, a worldwide children’s medical charity.

The event will also showcase the newly remodeled 255 Detroit Street building, originally constructed in 1982. Designed by Sexton Lawton Architecture, the building features a three story tower of translucent glass, a penthouse canopy with a full-height sliding glass wall, and other modern design elements.

More information on the participating businesses:

• Avanti Skin Center of Denver is an innovative skin care center that provides medical-grade treatments in a luxurious spa-like experience. Offering facials, laser hair removal, Botox, and more, Avanti’s services will improve skin tone, texture and tightness. With the stage set for pure relaxation, the full-time staff of doctors, nurses, and estheticians customizes individual plans for healthier, better looking skin. Visit www.avantidenver.com to learn more.
• bod:evolve was established by Dr. David Broadway and Dr. John Millard in March 2008 as a vanguard for the evolution of body sculpting and body design procedures. With all that is new and continuing to advance in the cosmetic surgery and aesthetic field, patients deserve far more than traditional procedures. They deserve to partake in the most evolved form of body contouring and beauty maintenance. For more information, visit www.bodevolve.com.
• Carrie Louise Daenell, ND, a licensed Naturopathic Doctor and a nationally recognized expert in natural health care, creates cutting edge health-optimizing protocols at her LiveWell Center. When results matter, LiveWell Center is your resource for the “best of the best” that natural medicine has to offer for: Bio-Identical hormone replacement therapy and menopause, reversing bone health challenges, healing the aging metabolism and weight balancing with age, total digestive repair, chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia, food allergy resolution, stress hormone and brain chemistry balancing, and drug-free sleep support. Visit www.DrDaenell.com for more information.
• Brian Willoughby MD, a fellowship trained oculoplastic and orbitofacial surgeon, specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the eyes and face. Now in his eighth year of practice, he has devoted much of his time to developing and refining the process of volumetric facial rejuvenation, using the patients’ own body fat to restore the youthful shape and contour of the aging face. In addition to performing other more traditional facial cosmetic procedures, Dr. Willoughby regularly treats traumatic facial injuries, facial skin cancer, and all types of eyelid and orbital disease. To learn more, visit www.eyesandface.com.

About Operation Smile

Operation Smile mobilizes a world of generous hearts to heal children’s smiles and transform lives across the globe. Founded in 1982, Operation Smile, headquartered in Norfolk, Virginia, is a worldwide children’s medical charity whose network of global volunteers are dedicated to helping improve the health and lives of children and young adults. Since its founding, Operation Smile volunteers have treated more than 130,000 children born with cleft lips, cleft palates and other facial deformities and the organization has a presence in over 50 countries. In addition to contributing free medical treatment, Operation Smile trains local medical professionals in its partner countries and leaves behind crucial equipment to lay the groundwork for long-term self-sufficiency. For more information, visit www.operationsmile.org.

*Images by Sexton Lawton Architecture

This Holiday Season, End the Wait

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As part of its Holiday Gift of Life Campaign, The National Kidney Foundation Serving Colorado, Montana and Wyoming is reminding Americans that for the holidays, the greatest gift anyone can give is the promise to register for organ and tissue donation or by considering living donation.

“More than 100,000 people are waiting for organ transplants in the U.S.,” commented Judy Norman, Regional Vice President of the foundation. “This holiday season, help end the wait for those on the transplant list by giving a present that really counts—the gift of life.”

The National Kidney Foundation is doing its part with its End The Wait! initiative, a comprehensive plan to end the wait for kidney transplants.

“Most of the people on the list will wait too long for an organ and too many will die while waiting,” said Norman. “We’ve decided to meet this challenge head on and lead a broad-based initiative that will increase the pool of living and deceased donors.”

The National Kidney Foundation Serving Colorado, Montana and Wyoming is dedicated to preventing kidney diseases, improving the health and well-being of individuals and families affected by these diseases and increasing the availability of all organs for transplantation. To learn more about becoming an organ donor or about the End The Wait! initiative, visit www.kidney.org.

Osmotics Cosmeceuticals Hosts Holiday Glow Party

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Event Will Benefit the Gathering Place

Osmotics Cosmeceuticals, developing cutting edge treatments for skin and hair, will host a party entitled “Holiday Glow” at its corporate offices and concept store (1444 Wazee St., #210, Denver) on Thursday, December 3 from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.

“Look radiant this holiday season with the help of Osmotics,” remarked Francine Porter, Founder and CEO of Osmotics. “Our new concept store in Downtown Denver is the perfect place to experience the latest innovative treatments and products for both women and men.”

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet Francine Porter and the Osmotics team of skin care specialists, while learning about exciting innovations in anti-aging technologies for skin and hair. In addition to complimentary cocktails and appetizers, guests will receive free LED treatments.

“Treat yourself to our award-winning products and make holiday shopping easy with special savings and beautiful gift sets that are perfect for everyone on your list,” said Porter.

Osmotics will donate a portion of all proceeds from the evening to the Gathering Place, Denver’s only daytime drop-in center for women and their children who are experiencing homelessness and poverty. Visit www.the-gatheringplace.org for more information.

To RSVP for this free event, send an e-mail to sameera@osmotics.com.
About Osmotics
Founded in 1993 by renowned anti-aging skincare expert, Francine Porter, Osmotics works with university medical centers and a board of world-class scientific advisors to bring you the most advanced cosmeceutical products on the market. Francine has been featured in national and local media ranging from Good Morning America to CNN. She is widely recognized for pioneering many of the industry’s most influential technologies and continues to advise editors and lead public discussion on key dermatologic ingredients, practices, and products. For more information, visit www.osmotics.com.

About The Gathering Place

The Gathering Place exists to offer women a safe haven, resources for self-sufficiency, and opportunities to acquire new skills. Women who are able to meet their immediate and urgent needs can then call upon their inner resources and make positive life changes for themselves and their children. At The Gathering Place women can meet and network with other women who share life experiences, or similar circumstances. Women and children who visit the Gathering Place also experience a safe refuge where they have access to emergency survival services such as meals, bathing facilities, telephones, and on-site child-care. For more information, visit www.the-gatheringplace.org.

METROPOLITAN STATE COLLEGE OF DENVER GRADUATES DISPLAY WORK AT DENVER INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

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Shows Promise Features Extraordinary Artists in Higher Education

Three recent graduates in the art program at Metropolitan State College of Denver will be the first to have their work on display now through January 2010 at Denver International Airport (DIA). The exhibit, dubbed “Shows Promise,” features emerging artists and includes pieces by Spring 2009 Metro State graduates Chelsea Middaugh, Carolin Rutsche and Rebecca Taylor.

“This gives our students a worldwide showcase for their work while at the same time letting everyone know that Metro State has a vibrant and exciting art program,” said Jennifer Garner, associate professor with Metro State and the director and curator of the school’s Center for Visual Arts. “We hope this exhibit not only draws in airport visitors but spurs conversation about art in general.”

Equipped with bachelor of fine arts degrees, the three alumni artists are exhibiting thesis work that was completed for their respective area of concentration within Metro State’s Art Department. Co-curated by Garner and Amy Laugesen of DIA’s public art department, the exhibit is the first in a series planned by the airport to feature emerging artists from the state’s institutions of higher education.

“We chose to launch our program with Metro State because of our familiarity with the college’s art program and the wonderful work Jennifer has done with students there,” said Laugesen. “This is an evolving program that will help provide these student artists a national and even international platform for their work while putting Colorado on the map as an arts destination.”

“Shows Promise” is located in the northeast corner of the sixth floor in the Airport’s Jeppesen Terminal. The exhibit from Metro State will be on display through January 2010. More information on Metro State Art Program is available on the school’s Web site at www.mscd.edu.

Arts Supply Drive to Benefit Low-Income Denver Public Schools

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Public Drop Off Locations Ready to Accept Items

Think 360 Arts, the state’s leading provider of arts education programs and services, is seeking donations of new and gently used arts supplies during the 2009 MAGIC Arts Supply Drive, November 14 – December 5.

MAGIC (Making Arts Great in Classrooms) provides music, dance, theater and visual arts supplies to thousands of students in Title I schools throughout the Denver metro area. The community is encouraged to drop off donations at Art Students League of Denver, Children’s Museum of Denver, Whole Foods (Washington Park, Capitol Hill, Glendale), Guiry’s, Museo De Las Americas and Meininger Art Supply stores.

“The need for arts education has never been greater," said Kathy Yates, executive director of Think 360 Arts. “The arts help build essential skills that serve students as they enter higher education and the workforce. Plus, the arts reach those students who struggle in traditional classroom settings.”

The annual MAGIC Arts Supply Drive was launched in 2005 to assist Colorado teachers who spend an average of $400 out-of-pocket each year to purchase arts supplies for their classrooms. Now in its fourth year, the MAGIC Art Supply Drive has generated more than $70,000 in supplies and cash donations for 60 low-performing, low-income schools. Donations include clay, paint, markers, props, CDs, oil pastels, canvas, costumes and musical instruments.

The MAGIC Arts Supply Drive is sponsored by the Colorado Council on the Arts, Comcast and PBS. For more information about the 2009 MAGIC Arts Supply Drive, visit www.magicartsupplydrive.com or contact Think 360 Arts at 720-904-8890 x 105 or email info@think360arts.org.

About Think 360 Arts Complete Education
Think 360 Arts is the leading provider of arts education programs and services in Colorado and dedicated to ensuring a complete education for all Colorado children. The product of the January 2007 merger of Young Audiences of Colorado and the Colorado Alliance for Arts Education, Think 360 Arts has more than 70 years of combined experience in serving K-12 schools through teacher training, direct services to classrooms and public awareness programs. Think 360 Arts is an affiliate of the Kennedy Center Alliance for Arts Education Network and Young Audiences Inc. For more information, visit www.think360arts.org.

GUTTAU PUBLIC RELATIONS ACQUIRES FOUR NEW CLIENTS

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Guttau Public Relations, a public relations firm specializing in restaurants, education, retail and nonprofit industries, announced today that it has been hired by Avanti Skin Center of Denver, The Seed, BellaLu Home & Design, and Renew255.

“We are expanding our reach into ‘lifestyle’ PR with these four new clients,” said Jim Guttau, Principal. “We have added a new team member to handle this influx of new business.”

• Avanti Skin Center of Denver is an innovative skin care and laser hair removal center that treats patients to a luxurious spa-like experience: www.avantidenver.com
• The Seed assists women in identifying and connecting with the resources that they will need to build a successful business: www.TheSeedConnection.com
• Showcasing the latest home furnishings and leading interior designers in the region, BellaLu Home & Design is a one-stop shop for the interior of your home: www.bellaluhome.com
• Renew 255. Four businesses—Avanti, bod:evolve, Carrie Louise Daenell, ND, and Brian Willoughby, MD—at 255 Detroit Street in Denver will hold a joint grand opening for their businesses and the newly remodeled building at 255 Detroit Street, Denver on January 14, 2010.

Since 2005, Guttau Public Relations has implemented effective and innovative public relations campaigns for local and national clients like Jamba Juice. For more information about the firm and its results, visit www.guttaupr.com.

MALCOLM FARLEY EXHIBITION TO BENEFIT METRO STATE

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Well-Known Alumnus to Donate Proceeds to Scholarship Fund

World-renowned and Denver-based artist Malcolm Farley will present a special retrospective of his work featuring more than 100 pieces Nov. 10-17, 2009 at the Denver Pavilions. Farley, a graduate of Metro State, will donate 50 percent of sales during this exhibition to the College for its use in funding scholarships.

“It is an honor to have the full spectrum of my work displayed in conjunction with my alma mater to further the development of young, creative minds. It’s really a dream come true,” said Farley. “I have been blessed throughout my career and it only seems fitting that I bring this back to where it all began.”

Events during the week will include four lunch-and-learns designed to engage the business and K-12 community, and two public receptions. A public reception sponsored by Mile High Sports Magazine and Mile High Sports Radio will be from 5:30-7p.m., Thu., Nov. 12 and will feature an unveiling of Farley’s latest collection inspired by the 2009 Major League Baseball World Series. The second reception sponsored by KKHi 101.9 and Jazz at Jack’s will be from 6 -7:30 p.m., Sun., Nov. 15 and will feature a selection of Farley’s music-themed works.

“Malcolm Farley is known throughout the world for his iconic style,” said Associate Vice President of Development and Alumni Relations Cherrelyn Napue, adding that “the College is thrilled to have this talented alumnus showcasing his work to benefit Metro State.”

Known primarily for his work portraying sports personalities and musicians, Farley is gaining recognition for his pieces depicting spiritual messages and humanity. According to Farley, the effects of his global travels and inner voice have led him to create these very powerful, meditative images around the theme of world unity.

The exhibition, which will feature the full range of Farley’s work, will be housed on the second floor of the Pavilions in suite 262. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 7p.m., Nov. 11-17, 2009. More information about the event is available at www.mscd.edu/MalcolmFarley. Additional information about Metro State is at www.mscd.edu.

Metro State is Colorado’s leader in educating in-state undergraduates and is one of the largest four-year public colleges in the nation. The College enrolls the highest number of students of color among four-year colleges in the state. It boasts 64,400 alumni, with the bulk of them remaining in Colorado after graduation.

HRC Colorado Announces Call for Nominations

HRC Colorado, a chapter of the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), the largest national gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender advocacy organization, announces the call for nominations for its annual Paul Hunter Award and the Partner in Equality Award.

The Paul Hunter Award was conceived in 1993 and is named for Paul Hunter, a gay activist who, through two decades of work for the community, was instrumental in creating positive social and political change in Colorado. Hunter, an attorney, is noted for his work in the 1970s with Denver zoning laws. He died from AIDS-related complications in October 1991. The award is given every year by HRC Colorado to a single member of our community who has exemplified the spirit of Paul Hunter by working tirelessly for social justice, equality and visibility of the GLBT community.

Eligible nominees for the Partner in Equality Award are for-profit businesses and non-profit organizations that have shown a commitment to the GLBT community. Nominees must demonstrate a strong commitment to the GLBT community through their business practices, outreach, support efforts, and commitment to inclusivity.

“Many Coloradoans are working hard to support HRC’s efforts in the movement for equal rights for GLBT people,” commented Heather Nevill, Mile High Gala co-chair. “This is our way to recognize these exceptional leaders and organizations that help further our vision of a fair and equal country.”

HRC Colorado will accept nominations until December 30, 2009. Award winners will be announced at the Mile High Gala on April 24, 2010.

Visit www.milehighgala.com to download nomination forms. For questions, contact Lea Ann Purvis, HRC Awards Chair, at 303-321-8502 or lapurvis@comcast.net.


About the Human Rights Campaign
Founded in 1980, The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality. By inspiring and engaging all Americans, HRC strives to end discrimination against GLBT citizens and realize a nation that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. HRC seeks to improve the lives of GLBT Americans by advocating for equal rights and benefits in the workplace, ensuring families are treated equally under the law and increasing public support among all Americans through innovative advocacy, education and outreach programs. With 600,000 members, HRC works to secure equal rights for GLBT individuals and families at the federal and state levels by lobbying elected officials, mobilizing grassroots supporters, educating Americans, investing strategically to elect fair-minded officials and partnering with other GLBT organizations. For more information, visit www.hrc.org.

Avanti Skin Center Holiday Open House

Avanti Skin Center of Denver, located at 255 Detroit Street, Suite 200, Denver, will host a holiday open house on Thursday, November 12 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

“Usher in the holiday season with a more youthful looking you,” remarked Avanti Owner Cynthia Mejia. “At our holiday open house, you can learn more about the latest facial rejuvenation treatments available at Avanti.”

Guests will enjoy complimentary cocktails and hors d’oeuvres and are also encouraged to bring a toy for The Denver Santa Claus Shop. Those that bring a toy will receive an additional 10% off current sales on any product or service package at Avanti.

The first 50 attendees will receive a holiday swag bag. To RSVP, e-mail avantidenver@gmail.com.

Avanti Skin Center of Denver is an innovative skin care and laser hair removal center that treats patients to a luxurious spa-like experience. Offering a wide variety of services like acne treatment, facials, and Juvederm, Avanti’s professional staff of nurses and medical professionals have a natural aptitude for putting patients’ minds at ease, and with its spa, the stage is set for pure relaxation. Visit www.avantidenver.com to learn more.


Click on the invitation to see more details.

BellaLu Holiday Soiree to Benefit Beacon Center

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BellaLu Home & Design, an interior design showroom and studio, invites you to get in the spirit of the season—and in the spirit of giving for the Beacon Center.

Enjoy delectable hors d’oeuvres, libations, and live entertainment in the BellaLu studio. Ten percent of sales from the purchase of holiday “hostess” gifts and other home furnishings will benefit Beacon Youth and Family Center.

Beacon Youth and Family Center’s mission is to support at-risk-youth to become healthy members of their communities through family-centered, individualized treatment and educational services.

Please know that your participation and support of this event will have a direct impact on the children and families that Beacon Youth and Family Center serves. For more information, visit www.beaconcenter.org or call 303.761.6756.

RSVP by Friday, October 30 to inquiry@BellaLuHome.com

The Seed Launches Online Community to Connect Women Entrepreneurs

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The Seed, uniting women and resources around the world, announces the launch its online community at www.TheSeedConnection.com.

“Our vision is to grow The Seed into a successful international organization, providing education and connecting women-in-business with the resources they need to succeed,” commented Erin Seabold, co-founder of The Seed. “This will be accomplished through innovative technology and our most exciting feature, resource matching.”

According to Entrepreneur Magazine1, women are becoming new business owners at twice the rate of men.

“Unfortunately, many of those businesses don’t succeed,” said Seabold. “This is frequently due to poor planning or the inability to connect with partners who can fill in the gaps of the owner’s business knowledge.”

The Seed provides a solution to this problem by helping women in business unite with pre-screened and profiled resources. Not only resolving this fundamental disconnect of finding resources, The Seed also provides:

• Social Networking. Members can integrate their profile from other social networking sites; Facebook integration is currently in place.
• Platform. Women can establish their own networks, ask questions, find solutions, and form mentoring groups.
• Education. Members have access to a comprehensive library of articles and recorded calls to gain insight into best business practices and how to successfully incorporate the latest technologies.
• Consulting. Consultants provide live help and suggestions to plan for each phase of business growth.

“As a member of The Seed, members will have access to an incredible group of women resources and fellow women in business,” finished Seabold. “They will have access to the tools to grow their businesses and find ways to give back and plant more seeds.”

For more information, visit www.TheSeedConnection.com.

1 Statistic from http://www.entrepreneur.com/magazine/entrepreneur/2007/january/171896-2.html.

About The Seed

The Seed assists women in identifying and connecting with the resources that they will need to build a successful business. As members of The Seed organization, women are matched to resources and fellow women in business, based on the resources and opportunities that they are looking for now, tomorrow, and in the future. To see how you can promote your business to other women around the world, visit www.TheSeedConnection.com.

CultureHaus Enlists Marketing Expertise of DeOlivera Twigg Hallin Creative

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CultureHaus, a social and educational support group of the Denver Art Museum connecting the young at heart with art, announced today it has retained the services of DeOlivera Twigg Hallin Creative (DTH), a newly established firm at 3558 Navajo Street, Denver.

“CultureHaus will be given a new look by the creative geniuses at DTH,” commented CultureHaus Board Co-Chair Michael Mowry. “This fresh new image will be unveiled just in time for the New Year and for the largest event in CultureHaus history, ‘Embrace CultureHaus’ gala, to be held at the Denver Art Museum on February 6.”

The DTH team will rework the organization’s website, marketing collateral, logo, and other branding aspects. The company will also have two chairs on the CultureHaus board of directors. This will be the first major re-branding undergone by the 12 year-old organization.

To learn more about DTH Creative, visit http://dthcreative.com.

About CultureHaus

CultureHaus, a social and educational extension of the Denver Art Museum, connects the young at heart with art. CultureHaus provides its members with a wide range of opportunities to learn about art and collecting. At exclusive events held nearly every month, members and guests can enjoy unique insights about art, private exhibition viewings, and the chance to meet other art enthusiasts. Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper and others formed CultureHaus in 1997 to create awareness for the Denver Art Museum and the arts amongst the 25 to 40 year-old demographic. For more information, visit www.culturehaus.com.

Great Chefs of the West YPs: A New Image for the National Kidney Foundation of CO, MT, & WY

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Today, it is important for nonprofits to get creative and think outside the box when raising money and reaching out to new people. One of the most effective movements in the Colorado nonprofit scene has been the creation of young professionals committees. Many nonprofits are assessing their current donor profiles and are finding that their main benefactors are in the 50 year-old and over category. If these charities never reach out to a younger demographic, what happens when their donors pass away? The time is now to cultivate new, young leadership and donors.

For the National Kidney Foundation of CO, MT, and WY, the executive director and team wanted a fresh new image for the organization. Yes, the first and easiest step is to move away from the tired old ballroom gala and present a hip, more informal cocktail party. Second, I wanted to create a group of well-known young professionals (YPs) in Denver—who also get things done. That’s the important part. They can be socialites, but do they follow through and execute tasks when on a committee? This group of YPs would be responsible for organizing their own events that would compliment and help spread word-of-mouth buzz for the big Great Chefs of the West event in February 2010.

Assembling a group of ten stellar YPs, we first met in October 2008 and formed the Great Chefs of the West YP committee. We planned our first event for January 2009, which was held at One Lincoln Park at a penthouse condominium. The committee rallied, and we produced an event attended by over 200 YPs, complete with a DJ, vodka bar, wine bar, appetizers from two restaurants, and a photographer. We spent just $50 for the entire occasion (on linens and coat hangers) and created a great stir in the community about the Great Chefs YP events.

Second Home was the venue for our next event in May 2009. The format of this event was a guest bartending event, with the ten committee members mixing up a signature drink—the MORjito. This time, we did raise money from the sale of the signature drinks ($5 each) and from tips; we raised around $2,000 for the foundation and commanded an attendance of 200 once again.

Our third event will be held October 25 at Gourmet Fine Catering. We’re bringing the focus back to exemplary food and outstanding chefs, so the party will be right in the kitchen—a 12,000 square foot state-of-the-art facility. We’ll charge $20 this time, which will include live music, vodka bar, wine bar, and chef creations demonstrated live by the Gourmet culinary team. We got creative, too, and will be applying the $20 ticket price toward the February Great Chefs event ticket—a kind of layaway program to entice YPs to attend.

In January, we will hold one final “kick-off” party, and again, we’ll apply a $20 ticket price to the February event ticket.

Overall, the YP committee has definitely increased the visibility of the foundation—not only amongst YPs—but in the community. Because we are doing innovative, new events, we are garnering more coverage for the foundation than ever before. With more media coverage comes more awareness, and increased awareness helps increase funds.

A quote I heard from a YP best sums this up: “I know I have kidneys and am aware of what they do. I knew there probably had to be a foundation for kidneys, as almost every organ has its own charity. But, I hadn’t heard of the National Kidney Foundation of CO, MT, and WY before and didn’t realize they were headquartered right here in Denver. It’s exciting to be part of their new YP initiative and spread the word to my friends.”

Thank you to my phenomenal YP committee members:
Dana Berry
Anne Donley
Georgia Gallagher
Jill Hodges
Kasia Iwaniczko
Jenny Salimi
Jessica Hood
Lea Tucker

-Jim Guttau, Great Chefs of the West YP committee chairperson

Gourmet Fine Catering to Host Great Chefs of the West Young Professionals Event

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What:

The National Kidney Foundation of CO, MT and WY presents the third Great Chefs of the West Young Professionals (YP) event of 2009 at Gourmet Fine Catering.

Called “Chef’s Table: Eat. Drink. Gather. Gourmet.,” this YP event will focus on the chefs of Gourmet Fine Catering and their culinary creations. Hosted at Gourmet’s 12,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility, Gourmet’s top chefs will showcase their culinary skills live in their own impressive environment. Guests will get a behind-the-scenes look at a full-service, high-volume production kitchen and will sample an array of sizzling hors d’oeuvres.

When:

Sunday, October 25 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Where:

Gourmet Fine Catering, 3600 E. 40th Ave., Denver

How:

Tickets are $20 per person, and all proceeds benefit the National Kidney Foundation. Ticket price includes open bar and chef creations, and can be applied toward the purchase price of a ticket to the February 16 Great Chefs event.
To purchase tickets online, please go to www.blacktie-colorado.com/rsvp and enter event code: NKF1025.

Who:
Members of the Young Professionals Committee:
Jim Guttau, chair
Dana Berry
Anne Donley
Georgia Gallagher
Jill Hodges
Kasia Iwaniczko
Jenny Salimi
Jessica Hood
Lea Tucker

More information:

The National Kidney Foundation of CO, MT and WY will host the 27th Annual Great Chefs of the West on February 16, which will feature Denver’s greatest culinary talents. YP events throughout 2009 will help generate buzz amongst young professionals (ages 21-39) for the Great Chefs event. For more information, visit www.kidneycimw.org/gcotw.

The National Kidney Foundation of Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming is dedicated to preventing kidney and urinary tract disease, improving the health and well-being of individuals and families affected by these diseases and increasing the availability of all organs for transplantation. Visit the organization’s website at www.kidneycimw.org.

BELLALU HOME & DESIGN HIRES GUTTAU

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Guttau Public Relations, a public relations firm specializing in restaurants, education, retail and nonprofit industries, announced today that it has been hired by BellaLu Home & Design to handle the company’s public relations.

“With our experience in handling public relations for retail clients, BellaLu is a perfect fit for us,” said Jim Guttau, Principal. “Owner Jodi Zippo and her team have established a name for themselves in only a year, and we’re excited to help them take their business to the next level.”

BellaLu Home & Design, located at 9595 E. County Line Rd., Englewood, is an interior design studio and showroom, featuring the latest in home furnishings and employing top interior designers. For more information, visit www.BellaLuHome.com.

Since 2005, Guttau Public Relations has implemented effective and innovative public relations campaigns for local and national clients like Jamba Juice. For more information about the firm and its results, visit www.guttaupr.com.

Union Station Advocates Host “A Night in Old Union Station”

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Union Station Advocates (USA), a 501(c)(3) citizens group dedicated to excellence for the evolving transportation hub in LoDo and the Platte Valley, will host a fundraising party entitled “A Night in Old Union Station” on Thursday, November 11 from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Funds raised from the event will help resurrect a replica of the historic Mizpah Arch.

Famed and photographed, the Mizpah Arch framed the entrance to Denver’s Union Station from 1906 to 1931. A new collaborative campaign plans to return a replica of the arch to the area surrounding the proposed rehabilitation of the historic Union Station building.

The re-creation of the Mizpah Arch has been discussed and a contemporary version was designed by Mario Botta in collaboration with Anderson Mason Dale. Its design triggered a lot of controversy and conversation about the Mizpah Arch and its function and symbolism for the city.

Evan Makovsky of Shames Makovsky Realty Company has been a champion for the reinstallation of the original arch. Large photographs of the monumental entry arch, which was first introduced by Mayor Robert Speer during train travel’s heyday, are featured in Makovsky’s Residence Inn.

“A Night in Old Union Station” festivities will utilize many parts of the historic station with a corporate sponsor “raw bar” repast on the mezzanine, a speakeasy in the train departure tunnel, and conductor tickets are assigned to the Great Hall.
Cuisine from LoDo’s premier restaurants will be donated with the coordination of The Arrangers, Amy Evans of McCormick’s Restaurant, and John Imbergamo of the Imbergamo Group. The growing number of restaurants participating includes Jax, McCormick’s, Mortons, Gumbos, and Bistro Vendome. Beer will be donated by Coors.

The main fare for the festivity will include troupes of mimes, contortionists, palm readers, and other entertainment performing throughout the station. Guests are encouraged to don historic attire for a sense of participation in “A Night in Old Union Station.” Prizes for best costumes will be awarded.

The celebration will culminate in the Great Hall historic reception room at the end of the evening. The hall’s 65 foot high ceiling will provide for a spectacular finish as planned by Al Kraizer, LoDo Jazz Fest creator, and Charlie Prideaux, producer of Times Square’s annual New Year’s Eve ball drop.

Honorary chairpersons of the celebration are Mayor John Hickenlooper and Helen Thorpe, as well as Judy Montero, Councilwoman for Denver’s District 9.

Purchase tickets at https://www.blacktie-colorado.com/calendar/index.cfm?FuseCalendar_ID=18556&FuseAction=ShowEvent . For more information, contact Dana Crawford at (303)892-1888.

Denver Resident Competes in World Transplant Games

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The World Transplant Games is the world’s largest organ donor awareness event, and Queensland, Australia was the home to the 17th World Transplant Games for eight days.

Denver resident and kidney transplant recipient Keith Ashby competed in the 5K run, 400 meter, and the 800 meter run. Keith competed at the U.S. Transplant Games last year in Pittsburgh and thought it would be a good experience to compete on a higher level. His transplant was May 4, 2006 at the University of Colorado Hospital, and his stepson was his donor. The interesting part of Keith’s story is that he is African American, and his stepson is Caucasian.

“I did very well and ran my best time in the 5K road race, which was 24 minutes," commented Ashby. "I was the first finisher for the American team, but the man who won it in my age group was from Italy and he finished in 17 minutes and 20 seconds. The experience compared to the U.S. Transplant Games does not even compare. To meet all of these wonderful athletes from all over the world who have had kidney, heart, lung, liver transplants is amazing. Also to meet other people who are on my team is truly worth the trip, because we do not get a chance to really get to know other people from other teams during the U.S. games. The best moment was the closing ceremonies—after you have met all of these wonderful people from all over the world having a shared bond of having received a transplanted organ.”

For more information, visit http://worldtransplantgames09.com/.

The National Kidney Foundation of Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming sponsored Ashby in his journey to Australia. To learn more, visit www.kidneycimw.org.

Inaugural Billings Kidney Walk Raises $23,000

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The National Kidney Foundation of Colorado, Montana and Wyoming hosted the Inaugural Billings Kidney Walk on September 13 at Pioneer Park.

Attended by 115 and raising $23,000, the non-competitive walk raised funds and awareness of early prevention of kidney and urinary tract diseases and the need for organ donation.

“We are very excited about our partnership with all of the people in Billings who worked so hard to make the Billings Kidney Walk a huge success,” said Judy Norman, Executive Director of the National Kidney Foundation of Colorado, Montana and Wyoming. “The Billings Committee has expressed interest in working with us on the 2010 Kidney Walk, so we plan to get even more people involved next year. Thank you, Billings, for your participation and support.”

The money raised will help support the various patient and community assistance programs, as well as kidney health screenings in Montana. Additional donations can be still made at www.kidneywalk.org.

The National Kidney Foundation of Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming is dedicated to preventing kidney and urinary tract disease, improving the health and well-being of individuals and families affected by these diseases and increasing the availability of all organs for transplantation. For more information, visit www.kidneycimw.org.

OUT FRONT COLORADO HOSTS COVER MODEL FINALIST PARTY

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Event Features Celebrities and a Benefit for Matthew Shepard Foundation

DENVER, CO (September 8, 2009)—Out Front Colorado, providing news to Colorado’s GLBT community since 1976, will host a Cover Model Finalist Party at Mo's (1037 Broadway, Denver) on Thursday, September 24 from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m.

“Out Front Colorado has scoured the state in search of the ultimate cover model,” stated Publisher Greg Montoya. “We've searched the entire summer to bring you the hottest of hot bodies. Now our search is over. We are proud to present to you the top six finalists at this fun-filled event.”

The cover model winner will be featured on the cover of the October 7 issue of Out Front Colorado. Cast your vote at www.ofccovermodel.com.

The event, a benefit for the Matthew Shepard Foundation, will feature Nuclia Waste, Goddess Duane, DJ E-N, and a Baskit Underwear Show.

• The Princess of Plutonium, Nuclia Waste, is the region’s best known “comedy queen,” featured on Tonight Show with Jay Leno, LOGO, and The History Channel. Visit www.nucliawaste.com.

• Goddess Duane, another fabulous Denver drag persona, and her sidekicks, the Mo Mo-Mo’s, can be seen gracing stages around the Rocky Mountain region. Visit www.goddessduane.com.

• Since 1998, DJ E-N has mixed music all over the Denver circuit, ranging from 70's to hip hop to house electronica. Visit http://www.myspace.com/jpedersen78.

• Sold internationally, Baskit Underwear strives to provide a hip, comfortable alternative for modern men who want underwear that fits their lifestyles and their bodies. Visit www.baskitwear.com.

• The Matthew Shepard Foundation is a GLBT rights group founded in 1998 by Dennis and Judy Shepard in memory of their 21-year old son, Matthew, who was murdered in an anti-gay hate crime in Wyoming in October 1998. Visit www.matthewshepard.org.

Advance tickets are $10 and $15 at the door. Ticket price includes open bar serving Three Olives Vodka, Jagermeister, 1800 Tequila, and Coors Light from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. Sponsors for the event include Coors Light and The Rights 5.

About Out Front Colorado
Founded in 1976, Out Front Colorado, the oldest and largest GLBT publication in the Rocky Mountain region and one of the oldest in the country, prints 20,000 issues every other week, with an estimated 50,000 readers per issue. Independently owned and operated, Out Front Colorado is where Colorado GLBT readers go for news, entertainment, sports, fashion, reviews and more. For more information, visit www.outfrontcolorado.com.

BellaLu Labor Day Sale

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BellaLu Labor Day Sale(9/5-9/7): Mention you read this on GuttauPR Blog and receive 60% off floor samples!

BellaLu Home & Design also offers everything from complimentary design consultation to complete design services.

Visit www.BellaLuHome.com or call 303-768-8700 for more information. BellaLu is located at 9595 E. County Line Road in Englewood, CO.

Cheap Cabernet: A Friendship Book Launch Partners with Balistreri Vineyards

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Denver-based author, Cathie Beck’s new, award-winning memoir, Cheap Cabernet: A Friendship, publishing on Tuesday, October 6, 2009, announces a partnership with Balistreri Vineyards in Denver.

Balistreri Vineyards will produce, label, bottle, ship and give away free Cheap Cabernet bottles of Cabernet Sauvignon — joining author Cathie Beck, and the over two million attendees to the “Cheap Cabernet: Vino for Every Vixen ParTAY” at www.cathiebeck.com.

The Book Launch is a world-wide celebration of women, friendship, irreverence and joi-de-vivre, and the launch anticipates Amazon.com Best Seller Status for Cheap Cabernet in several book categories, with buyers purchasing the book only on the popular book buying site. Cheap Cabernet: A Friendship is available for sale at www.amazon.com on October 6, 2009 at 12:01 a.m.

“We have over three dozen business partners and are giving away thousands of dollars in free bonus gifts to book buyers, plus additional thousands of dollars in contest prizes — and those prizes now include Balistreri Vineyard signature wine,” says Beck. “Balistreri is the best in the business, a long-standing, multi-generational Colorado winery, and we are thrilled to join forces in what’s become a regional and global force of unbelievable support.”

In addition, a portion of all book proceeds will be donated to the Colorado Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

This week, former Rocky Mountain News Books Editor, Patti Thorn, endorsed Cheap Cabernet: A Friendship:

Cathie Beck's Cheap Cabernet is a vintage tale, a female buddy story chock full of the stuff of life: tears, laughter and love in the darkest of times. You won’t put it down until the final page -- at which time a box of Kleenex and a glass of cabernet, cheap or otherwise, would be wise to have on hand: the first to deal with the story's denouement, the second to toast Beck's triumph.

Cathie Beck is “The Wine Wench” columnist at KUVO 89.3 FM and for ColoradoBiz Magazine, and is the recipient of several awards, including the Scripps-Howard Award for Excellence in Journalism, winner of the University of Colorado’s Dean’s Grant Award for Writing, and multiple winner of the Louisiana Press Women’s and Denver Press Woman’s Writing Awards. Portions of “Cheap Cabernet” won Denver Press Woman’s Writing Awards.

“Over $3,000 in gifts are free to Cheap Cabernet buyers,” says Beck. “Hay House Publishing is giving away gifts, as are a number of other best-selling authors, retailers and businesses.”

Additionally, contests to win prizes include designer clothing, and award-winning art and photography — in addition to the Cheap Cabernet signature wine. All details of the “Cheap Cabernet: Vino for Every Vixen ParTAY” will be available on September 15 at www.cathiebeck.com.

“Cheap Cabernet: A Friendship’s” followers and endorsers grow in number daily,” says Beck. “But what is most thrilling is that readers around the world, including book group members and people in publishing worlds are widely championing the book. The reaction is truly humbling — and unbelievably exciting.”

Judging Inner Beauty

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Image Consultant Tina Gill to Judge Pageant

Local image consultant, Tina Gill of worthwhile style, has been chosen as one of the judges representing the Denver community for the Miss Teen Denver Pageant. The host company of the event, Nationals Incorporated, brings their unique program, defined as “Pageantry With Purpose," to Colorado for a two-day event occurring on August 29 and 30.

"I am honored to take part in this amazing event for young ladies focusing on positive self esteem,” said Gill. “I have long embraced creating a supportive environment for everyone I work with and helping them see the true beauty they possess. I pride myself in encouraging women to be themselves and love who they are right now in their lives.”

Nationals Incorporated works with young ladies ages seven through nineteen, producing a program that focuses on self confidence and self esteem building. Since 1995, their program, on the same format as a pageant, does not include a talent or swimsuit competition, nor do they impose any height or weight requirements. Contestants undergo nearly five weeks of training on interview skills and stage presence.

Judges will hold personal interviews with each contestant at Embassy Suites (4444 N.Havana St., Denver) on Saturday, August 29. The actual pageant, including casual and formal wear, will be held at Teikyo Events Center at Colorado Heights University (3001 S. Federal Blvd., Denver) on Sunday, August 30. For more information, visit www.nationalsincorporated.com

Tina Gill, stylist to the everyday star, is the president and founder of worthwhile style and currently provides personal and professional image consulting services for the Denver metro area. Armed with her degree in psychology, her extensive background in customer service, and her love for shopping, Gill shines at helping individuals to look and feel their best. With her contagious laugh and outgoing personality, Gill’s specialty is empowering individuals to be comfortable with whom they are right now in their lives. For more information, visit www.worthwhilestyle.com.