Blogs

The Coors Light Silver Bullet Train is speeding towards the most refreshing summer yet, with special beer packaging, memorable local events, exclusive social media campaigns, a talent search with Ice Cube, and much more. In addition, the seasonal celebration is literally painting the summer silver with a fresh focus on local 3D art by world-renowned artists.  In this time-lapse video that is sure to give you goose-bumps, watch a Coors Light Silver Bullet Pint come to life: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5bNlrm5j6vc

The Coors Light Silver Bullet Summer kicks off with the release of sleek, new special-edition Silver Bullet Summer packaging. Hitting shelves now, certain packs of Coors Light 12-ounce bottles and cans feature a distinctive, all-silver design with the exception of the iconic Cold-Activated blue mountains.  The Silver Bullet Summer packaging will be available for about 10 weeks in all varieties of 12-ounce cans, as well as 24-loose and 6-pack 12-ounce bottles.

The World’s Most Refreshing Beer can also be enjoyed in the innovative Coors Light Silver Bullet Aluminum Pint (see it in three-dimensional art form here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5bNlrm5j6vc), which launched nationally earlier this year.  It’s the perfect package for anyone looking for an alternative to glass but wants the benefits of a bottle, whether they’re headed to the beach, concerts in the park or just hanging out with friends at a backyard barbecue. The Silver Bullet Pint’s wide mouth and re-sealable cap provides cold beer on the go and a full 16-ounces of “refreshment as cold as the Rockies.”

As the temperature heats up, The Coors Light Silver Bullet Summer campaign will showcase amazing three-dimensional art displays in cities across the country. At these exhibits, passersby will be able to interact with an oversized Silver Bullet Pint literally “splashing down” in the form of large 3D artwork. This optical illusion comes to life when people take pictures and video posing with the pint. Coors Light is encouraging spectators to capture and share their personal experiences with these visual art works whether it be texts to friends, posts on Facebook, #silverbullet3D on Twitter, and on Coors Light Facebook page. Watch the time-lapse video of this explosive art here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5bNlrm5j6vc

The art displays will feature the work of two talented artists, Melanie Stimmell Van Latum and Julie Kirk–Purcell. Melanie is a graduate of Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, CA and spent eight years working on the iconic Comedy Central series South Park where she oversaw the transition from infamous paper cutouts to flawless digital animations.

Julie Kirk-Purcell is among the most admired and respected chalk artists of her time. Beginning her street painting career almost 20 years ago, she has traveled the world honing her craft and sharing her elaborate original designs with well-known clients such as The Walt Disney Company & Studios, Universal Studios, The Howard Hughes Corporation, BankMuscat, Bloomburg LLP, Chrysler Corporation, Lexus Corporation and the Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific.

The Coors Light Facebook page and YouTube channel will also feature exclusive content, including a new augmented reality app, Coors Light Cold FX, which allows people to insert the Silver Bullet Pint into photos and videos captured on smart phones.

“This will be our boldest, coldest summer yet,” said Kedric George, Coors Light director of innovation and activation.  “Everything we’re doing this summer is about reinforcing the message that when you want cold refreshment, you just have to find the blue mountains.”

For more information on the Coors Light Silver Bullet Summer, please visit CoorsLight.com or www.facebook.com/CoorsLight. Don’t forget to watch the freshest video of the summer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5bNlrm5j6vc

The Coors Light Silver Bullet Train is speeding towards the most refreshing summer yet, with special beer packaging, memorable local events, exclusive social media campaigns, a talent search with Ice Cube, and much more. In addition, the seasonal celebration is literally painting the summer silver with a fresh focus on local 3D art by world-renowned artists.  In this time-lapse video that is sure to give you goose-bumps, watch a Coors Light Silver Bullet Pint come to life: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5bNlrm5j6vc

The Coors Light Silver Bullet Summer kicks off with the release of sleek, new special-edition Silver Bullet Summer packaging. Hitting shelves now, certain packs of Coors Light 12-ounce bottles and cans feature a distinctive, all-silver design with the exception of the iconic Cold-Activated blue mountains.  The Silver Bullet Summer packaging will be available for about 10 weeks in all varieties of 12-ounce cans, as well as 24-loose and 6-pack 12-ounce bottles.

The World’s Most Refreshing Beer can also be enjoyed in the innovative Coors Light Silver Bullet Aluminum Pint (see it in three-dimensional art form here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5bNlrm5j6vc), which launched nationally earlier this year.  It’s the perfect package for anyone looking for an alternative to glass but wants the benefits of a bottle, whether they’re headed to the beach, concerts in the park or just hanging out with friends at a backyard barbecue. The Silver Bullet Pint’s wide mouth and re-sealable cap provides cold beer on the go and a full 16-ounces of “refreshment as cold as the Rockies.”

As the temperature heats up, The Coors Light Silver Bullet Summer campaign will showcase amazing three-dimensional art displays in cities across the country. At these exhibits, passersby will be able to interact with an oversized Silver Bullet Pint literally “splashing down” in the form of large 3D artwork. This optical illusion comes to life when people take pictures and video posing with the pint. Coors Light is encouraging spectators to capture and share their personal experiences with these visual art works whether it be texts to friends, posts on Facebook, #silverbullet3D on Twitter, and on Coors Light Facebook page. Watch the time-lapse video of this explosive art here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5bNlrm5j6vc

The art displays will feature the work of two talented artists, Melanie Stimmell Van Latum and Julie Kirk–Purcell. Melanie is a graduate of Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, CA and spent eight years working on the iconic Comedy Central series South Park where she oversaw the transition from infamous paper cutouts to flawless digital animations.

Julie Kirk-Purcell is among the most admired and respected chalk artists of her time. Beginning her street painting career almost 20 years ago, she has traveled the world honing her craft and sharing her elaborate original designs with well-known clients such as The Walt Disney Company & Studios, Universal Studios, The Howard Hughes Corporation, BankMuscat, Bloomburg LLP, Chrysler Corporation, Lexus Corporation and the Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific.

The Coors Light Facebook page and YouTube channel will also feature exclusive content, including a new augmented reality app, Coors Light Cold FX, which allows people to insert the Silver Bullet Pint into photos and videos captured on smart phones.

“This will be our boldest, coldest summer yet,” said Kedric George, Coors Light director of innovation and activation.  “Everything we’re doing this summer is about reinforcing the message that when you want cold refreshment, you just have to find the blue mountains.”

For more information on the Coors Light Silver Bullet Summer, please visit CoorsLight.com or www.facebook.com/CoorsLight. Don’t forget to watch the freshest video of the summer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5bNlrm5j6vc

Experienced industry pro Thomas de Miniac supports expansion of services

Arvada, Colo. — Faustson Tool (www.faustson.com), a worldwide leader in five-axis manufacturing technology, has hired Thomas de Miniac as its new European sales manager. In this role, he will support Faustson’s ongoing expansion in the European market.

“It’s clear that the industry and the business world is becoming a global marketplace. To honor our existing working relationships abroad and to support the creation of new opportunities, we undertook an international search and found Thomas,” notes Faustson Director of Operations Heidi Hostetter. “Given his fluency in multiple languages and business strengths in communications, sales and marketing, it was clear that this was a great fit, and we are confident it will produce results and allow us to even more effectively serve our European clients.”

A native of France, de Miniac is fluent in French, English and Spanish. His past experience includes work producing news-oriented content for international broadcast outlets in Europe and the U.S. He has managed and supervised efforts in Paris, Madrid, Brussels, London, and Washington, D.C. He can be reached by phone at  +33 6 18 66 71 15  or via email at tdiminiac@faustson.com.

"I feel confident that the European, and more specifically the French market will be impressed by Faustson's savoir-faire and impressive experience,” notes de Miniac. “My local, on-site involvement in this expanded effort in Europe expands our reach globally and supports Faustson’s effort to strengthen and build new industry relationships here."

Faustson is a woman-owned and -operated business that serves customers across the nation and internationally. The company holds a number of government contracts, and manufactured the optical substrate for the Kepler space telescope, launched in 2009 to find earth-like planets scattered across the galaxy. Faustson is currently performing work related to the United States’ F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter development effort, as well as commercial and military missile-deflection efforts now underway.

Call Faustson at  (303) 420-7422  to arrange for a tour of the company’s Arvada, CO facility and a demonstration of some of its cutting-edge manufacturing and machining technologies.

About Faustson Tool

Faustson Tool, a worldwide leader in the machining industry, provides services for clients worldwide in the medical, aerospace, aeronautics, defense, semiconductor and other industries. The company, founded in 1982, provides 3-, 4- and 5-axis milling and 5-axis EDM services, as well as turning capabilities for cutting-edge custom part production, and efficient production of standard parts. Faustson Tool is woman owned and operated. For more information, visit www.faustson.com, email info@faustson.com or call  (303) 420-7422 . Find Faustson on Twitter, @FaustsonTool, and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Faustson-Tool/111584968861831.

The anomaly is that people in America are living 30 years longer than people in the 20^th century but only working two years longer.  In 2000, the average retirement age was 62, and the average retirement age in 2010 was 64.  Many of the recent retirements were involuntary: the massive lay-offs between 2008-2012 because of the Great Recession, corporate mergers and consolidations, work being outsourced to other countries, increased automation, and other factors.  Many were also voluntary as employees accepted attractive severance packages or just wanted to get off the corporate treadmill.

Here are the seven principal reasons why many people 55 and older (55+) want to continue working after retirement: 

• The need for additional income to maintain a standard of living or the desire to have additional income for discretionary spending
• Recognition that, with knowledge of their increased longevity and vulnerability of their financial resources through market fluctuations, it may be necessary or desirable to generate additional income through a career after retirement
• The desire for continued interesting/stimulating/challenging work to maintain cognitive skills and abilities
• The desire to maintain self-esteem and self-fulfillment by continuing in productive activities that add value
• The desire to maintain relationships with the outside world and to remain socially connected
• The attraction of continued part-time work, without the responsibility and stress of a full-time job, to enhance the satisfaction with life and overall feeling of well being
• The opportunity for flexible workplace options that offer greater choices than full-time work plus an attractive benefits package that desirably includes healthcare coverage

My consulting firm, Human Resource Services, Inc. (HRS) organized a “Survey on the Strategic Involvement of HR in Fortune 1000 Companies” that was completed in November 2011 and conducted by Harris Interactive, with 25 major companies as sponsors.  Only 24% of the HR heads stated that their companies provided flexible workplace options.  The options include:

• Reduced working hours
• Reduced working days
• Flexible working times that may be variable
• Seasonal work
• Job sharing
• Telecommuting (i.e., working from home with telecommunications connections)
• Different work assignments (e.g., mentoring or training younger workers, a new functional or business area)
• Project assignments

As the economy improves and companies face the reality of an aging and shrinking workforce, many more will be required to develop flexible workplace options.  In a recent AARP survey, 80% of Baby Boomers indicated their intent to continue working, more than half on a part-time basis. Companies will be required to tap this large and growing talent pool of workers 55+ because of their experience, expertise, seasoned judgment and proven performance (we call that EESP).  And recent surveys conducted among Generation Y and Millennials indicate that many of them want more flexibility to spend time with their families and engage in other activities.

Companies would also be well advised to maintain databases of retired workers who may want to continue working on a part-time basis because it is substantially more efficient and cost effective to hire former employees who know the company and can continue to add value.   The alternative is to pay a fee to a staffing company for part-time help who don’t know the company, the people and the way it functions. 

HRS has created a nonprofit, the Center for Productive Longevity, with this mission:

To stimulate the substantially increased engagement of people 55 and older in productive activities, paid and volunteer, where they are qualified and ready to continue adding value.

In furtherance of this mission, CPL will be working closely with the HR heads of major companies around the country to increase their focus on flexible workplace options, as well as reaching out to mid-size and smaller companies. For more information, please visit www.ctrpl.org/.

As people continue to live longer and retire earlier, the term “Third-Stage Adulthood” has more relevance than ever before. Referring to people 62-85 years old, this stage of life is chock-full of senior workers who are qualified and ready to continue working after the traditional retirement age of 65 or sooner. This means that there is a large and growing talent pool with experience, expertise, seasoned judgment, and proven performance (referred to by CPL as EESP), to meet the workforce needs of the 21st century.

The concept of “Third-Stage Adulthood” was first conceived in a paper, “The Evolution of Adulthood: A New Stage” co-authored in 2000 by Dr. Elliott Jaques, who conceived the mid-life crisis in 1965, and CPL Founder and CEO William Zinke. Zinke created CPL, which is based in Boulder, Colorado, to stimulate the substantially increased engagement of people 55 and older in productive activities, paid and volunteer, where they are qualified and ready to continue adding value.

Now in 2012, the concept of Third-Stage Adulthood is even more important than when the term was coined. CPL urges everyone to recalibrate their thinking for this new reality because the results could be dire if action isn’t taken. If Baby Boomers are pushed to the sidelines, the nation’s entitlement programs (e.g. Social Security and Medicare) will become unsustainable even sooner than projected. To prevent this crisis, the country should tap the talent pool of retired workers in Third-Stage Adulthood and put their knowledge, skills and abilities to use.

“Embracing ‘Third-Stage Adulthood’ can be a positive life-changer as people enter this next phase,” says William Zinke, 85. “The concept urges society to recognize that older people can continue to add value for significantly longer periods of time and that they should be viewed as individuals, instead of all being lumped under the clichés of being ‘over the hill’ and ‘out of the game.’  The result will be that millions of older people with EESP can continue contributing to, instead of drawing from, the national economy and society.”

CPL subscribes to a concept of adulthood that falls into three stages, described as follows:

First stage of early adulthood (18-40) – the time to build experience and expertise; to decide whether to work in the private, public, or non-profit sectors and perhaps even gain some cross-sector experience; to decide whether to develop a career in a company or to become an entrepreneur; to focus on the development of particular skills and abilities; to build a solid foundation for the next two adult stages.

Second stage of mid-adulthood (40-62) – the time when experience and expertise produce problem- solving capabilities and sound judgment (CPL likes the saying that good judgment comes from experience and experience comes from bad judgment) and perhaps even the beginnings of wisdom. Any mid-life crises have been traversed and assurance and self-confidence have become more firmly established as a result of learning how to function more effectively. There is also continuing growth and development during this stage.

New-stage of mature adulthood (62-85) – the time when many individuals, although not all (e.g. people who have been engaged primarily in physical labor, who have not maintained a commitment to physical fitness, or who have debilities or disabilities), can continue to be significant contributors. They have had about 40 years to gain experience and expertise, to develop seasoned judgment and proven records of performance and to build their intellectual and social capital. While documented research indicates that cognitive capability may have plateaued for some, the intellectual growth curve continues to move upward for people who have continued to remain productively engaged.

CPL launched the Later-Life Story Contest on June 1 to solicit empowering stories from people 55 and older. The competition has two separate categories: Entrepreneur Success Stories and Inspirational Later-Life Stories. A panel of three independent judges will select one winner from each category who will receive $1,000 and a specially designed trophy. CPL will post the best stories on its website (ctrpl.org) throughout the contest under “Success Stories.” The contest runs through August 31, and winners will be announced on October 1, 2012.

To submit a story, visit www.ctrpl.org/laterlifestorycontest and complete a submission form. Entrants must be at least 55, have a compelling story to share, and be willing to have it posted on the CPL website for viewing and for possible publication. Stories may also be emailed to James Hooks, CPL’s Director of Marketing and Technology, at jhooks@ctrpl.org.

For more information on CPL, the contest and Entrepreneur Success Stories, visit ctrpl.org or Facebook at facebook.com/CTRPL.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

CONTACT:

Kathy Hall, Executive Director

Education Foundation for the St. Vrain Valley

303-807-2574 (cell)    hall.kathy.efsvv@comcast.net    www.efsvv.org

The Education Foundation Honors Western Disposal Services and the St. Vrain Valley Credit Union with Bravo Awards

Longmont, CO – June 12, 2012 – The Education Foundation for the St. Vrain Valley recently honored 2 long-time area businesses, Western Disposal Services and the St. Vrain Valley Credit Union, with their 2012 Bravo Awards. 

The Education Foundation established the Bravo Award in 2011 to formally recognize the exceptional contributions of the school district’s outstanding business partners. The Bravo Award plaque reads “in recognition of exemplary leadership, outstanding collaboration and innovative contributions to the St. Vrain Valley School District.  Your commitment to our students and teachers truly makes a difference in bringing the highest level of academic achievement to within the reach of all our students.”  

Executive Director Kathy Hall commented, “Not only have these industry leaders made an enormous investment in the District; their commitment will have a long lasting impact on our community as a whole.  The Bravo Award is a way to recognize what we all know – that it takes a village to educate and prepare our students for future success.  None of us can do it alone.” 

Foundation President Ben Bigelow honored Western Disposal by saying that, “Since 2008, Western Disposal has been a sponsor of the Crayons to Calculators school supply program.  Their incredible 125 employees have committed over $400,000 to help provide backpacks full of school supplies to students in need in both the St. Vrain and Boulder Valley school districts.  Over the years they have raised funds through their Trash Bash Gala, Shred-It Days, chili cook-offs, burrito sales, a staff boxing match, and employee payroll deductions.  In 2011, their efforts resulted in nearly 8,000 backpacks full of school supplies being available to students.”  Western Disposal employees Dan Powers and Deb Dabkowski were on hand to receive the award.

President Bigelow presented Elevations Credit Union Senior VP Eva Gaudio and board member Nancy Herbert the Bravo Award honor for the St. Vrain Valley Credit Union.   He highlighted the Credit Union’s ongoing commitment “to our teachers and students through the Teacher of the Month program, developing programs to enhance financial literacy, establishing a student branch of the Credit Union at Skyline High School, and providing thousands of dollars in college scholarships for graduating seniors. The Credit Union has also been an active sponsor of the Tribute to Teachers and the Crayons to Calculator program for the past 5 years.  The St. Vrain Valley Credit Union recently merged with Elevations Credit Union, and is anticipated to continue to be a vital supporter of the St. Vrain Valley School District.”

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ABOUT THE FOUNDATION - The Education Foundation for the St. Vrain Valley, an independent 501 (c)(3) organization, was founded in 1985. Our mission is to provide resources and educational opportunities, in partnership with St. Vrain Valley Schools and our local communities, to enhance student success and teacher excellence. Our goal is to supplement the traditional education experience in ways that maximize the effectiveness of teachers and result in enhanced achievement in an increasingly complex and competitive worldwide environment.  Since inception, the Foundation has made awards totaling approximately $1.5 million.  More information about the work of the Foundation can be found by going to www.efsvv.org .

Western Disposal’s Dan Powers and Deb Dabkowski with their Bravo Award.             

Elevations Credit Union, formerly St. Vrain Valley Credit Union, Board Member Nancy Herbert and VP Eva Gaudio.

Ecotech Institute, the first and only college entirely focused on preparing America’s workforce for careers in clean technology and sustainability, is hosting a Cleantech Jobs Forum on Thursday, June 21. The forum is open to the public and will feature members of Ecotech’s nationally renowned Board of Advisors, who are in town for Ecotech’s first graduation that afternoon. The forum is open to anyone interested in clean technology, including industry leaders, people currently working in this field and those who are considering a career change.

WHAT:                       

Ecotech Cleantech Jobs Forum

WHEN:                       

Thursday, June 21, 2012

TIME:                       

8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

WHERE:           

Ecotech Institute

1400 S. Abilene Street

Aurora, CO  80012

PANELISTS:            

Dr. Abbas Ghessemi, Chair of the Ecotech Advisory Board and Director of Institute for Energy and Environment (IE&E) at New Mexico State University.

Alden Zeitz, Director of North American Operations, DeWind Co.

Colin M. Coyne, Managing Principal, Coyne Group

Craig Mataczynski, Chief Executive, Renewable Energy Systems Americas

Declan Flanagan, President & CEO, Lincoln Renewable Energy LLC

Ghazi Darkazalli, Ph D, PE, President & CEO, Marian Court College

Janelle Kellman, Attorney, Pacific Gas and Electric Company

Timothy Callahan, Partner, Paul Hastings

MODERATOR:             

Glenn Wilson, Academic Dean at Ecotech Institute

Ecotech Institute, which is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, offers five highly practical associate’s degree programs that provide graduates with skills valued by today’s alternative renewable energy employers.

To learn more about Ecotech Institute, visit us online at www.ecotechinstitute.com or call 877-326-5576.  The next round of classes begins in July and applications are being accepted now. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify.

Ecotech Institute, the first and only college entirely focused on preparing America’s workforce for careers in clean technology and sustainability, will hold its first graduation on Thursday, June 21, 2012. Forty-two students will receive their associate’s degrees, which prepares them for a career in the clean technology industry. The graduates will receive degrees in the following areas: Wind Energy Technology, Solar Energy Technology, Renewable Energy Technology and Electrical Engineering Technology.  Former Governor Bill Ritter, who currently serves as the Director of the Colorado State University Center for the New Energy Economy, will deliver the commencement speech at the graduation.

"As Governor, I was proud when Ecotech Institute chose Colorado as the place to locate the country's first private technical institute devoted solely to preparing the workforce for the clean energy economy,” said Bill Ritter, Former Colorado Governor and current Director of the Colorado State University Center for the New Energy Economy.  “It is a privilege to play a role in Ecotech's first commencement, and to see the efforts of the staff and faculty come to fruition."

Students in this first graduating class began classes in a temporary facility in June 2010 as Ecotech completed an overhaul of an existing vacant building. In January 2011, they moved to the current LEED gold-certified campus in Aurora, Colorado. Today, Ecotech has more than 500 students and continues to grow.

“This initial group of students are visionaries, as they signed up for classes before they were able to see the beautiful campus and cutting-edge labs,” said Mike Seifert, president of Ecotech Institute. “Now, a variety of clean tech companies are offering them excellent positions and their forward-thinking commitment is paying off. We applaud each of them and look forward to watching their success.”

At Ecotech all students develop soft skills (communication, workplace etiquette), and math and science basics and technology skills, but the educational emphasis is on hands-on, practical training.  Ecotech’s prestigious national board of advisors, who all work in clean tech industries, helped design the school’s curriculum, providing coursework that reflects what the students will experience upon graduation. For a demographic breakdown of this first graduating class, please visit http://www.ecotechinstitute.com/pdf/ecotech-graduate-information.pdf.  

“Ecotech is producing well-prepared graduates that are highly sought in industries such as ours,” said Jesse Masters, Recruiter from M-I SWACO, a Schlumberger Company. “Its curriculum and practical labs offer complete training that makes new employees ready to hit the ground running. We were very impressed with the interviews we conducted with students from this graduating class and are excited to have several of these graduates join our team.”

Ecotech’s campus is LEED-gold certified and supports a commitment to sustainable living. The school generates approximately 5-10 percent of its energy from on-site clean, renewable energy sources such as rooftop wind turbines, solar panels, integral thin solar technologies embedded into the glass of the building canopy, and solar trees.

Ecotech Institute, which is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, offers five highly practical associate’s degree programs that provide graduates with skills valued by today’s alternative renewable energy employers.

To learn more about Ecotech Institute, visit us online at www.ecotechinstitute.com or call 877-326-5576.  The next round of classes begins in July and applications are being accepted now. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify.

As spring moves toward summer, we are reminded that the sun in Colorado is a force to be reckoned with. One of the easiest ways to prevent sun damage to delicate facial skin is to wear sunscreen every day. 

However, determining which sunscreen is best for your face is not as simple as looking at the SPF number. SPF only tells how much of the burning UV-B rays are blocked--it says nothing about a product's ability to block wrinkle-causing UV-A rays. In addition, SPFs above 30 can be misleading because they provide only slightly more protection. To fully protect your skin every day, you want a sunscreen that protects from both UV-B and UV-A rays, is good for your skin type, and will not irritate your skin.

Broad-spectrum sunscreens are best since they block both UV-A and UV-B rays.  Faces First's doctors of Denver and Lone Tree recommend sunscreens that contain zinc oxide, since it provides the broadest protection of any sunscreen ingredient. Antioxidants, such as green tea extract, also provide sun damage protection. Products such as FacesBlock, a sunscreen that includes all these important qualities, in a formula gentle enough to wear every day are a great defense against the sun.

You wouldn't want to put most pharmacy sunscreens on your face daily, but you will find comprehensive sun protection that is perfect for your skin.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

CONTACT:

Kathy Hall, Executive Director

Education Foundation for the St. Vrain Valley

303-807-2574 (cell)    hall.kathy.efsvv@comcast.net    www.efsvv.org

Crayons to Calculators drive gets underway to provide school supplies for students throughout St. Vrain Valley schools

Longmont, CO – June 11, 2012 - There are over 8,500 children in the St. Vrain Valley School District on the federal lunch assistance program, a common indicator of family poverty.  Many of these children routinely start school without basic school supplies for learning. 

Last year, through the Crayons to Calculators program, the Education Foundation for the St. Vrain Valley provided approximately 3,100 backpacks to ensure that an increasing number of our students have the supplies they need to succeed.  This year’s goal is to provide at least 3,200 backpacks to St. Vrain Valley students in need at all grade levels by the time school starts in August.  Community support for this program is critical.

“Economic challenges continue for more and more families,” says Kathy Hall, Executive Director of the Education Foundation for the St. Vrain Valley.  “In a time when more students need help donations are harder to come by.  Our major sponsors, Western Disposal and Staples, have continued their strong support for this important program, and community members and businesses throughout our school district are encouraged to follow their lead.  It is now more important than ever to help students get a good start in school each year.  All of our futures depend on them.”  

Crayons to Calculators invites businesses, community members and organizations to ‘adopt a student’ and fill a backpack, or to donate cash that is used to purchase backpacks and school supplies at cost. Businesses and churches are encouraged to hold local site drives.  Volunteers are needed to pack backpacks in early August.  Donation sites for supplies will be available in all communities throughout the district beginning in early July or supplies can be dropped off at the Education Foundation’s office at 820 Main Street in Longmont through the month of July. More information on how to participate can be found on the program’s website www.CrayonstoCalculators.org or by calling Jeanne Sampsell at 720-652-8208.

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ABOUT Crayons to Calculators – This program, started in 2005, is a collaborative annual school supply drive sponsored by Western Disposal, with support from Staples, local businesses, churches and non-profit organizations and thousands of individuals.  This year it is gearing up to provide over 8,000 school supply backpacks to students in Boulder Valley and St. Vrain Valley public schools in August.  Together, the two school districts have more than 15,000 students on the federal lunch assistance program, a common indicator of family poverty. 

Crayons to Calculators is a collaborative partnership between Impact on Education, I Have A Dream Foundation of Boulder County, Sister Carmen Community Center, Foothills United Way, and the Education Foundation for the St. Vrain Valley for the benefit of the Boulder Valley School District, and the St. Vrain Valley School District.  Last year, Crayons to Calculators provided 7,335 students with a backpack of school supplies.

ABOUT THE FOUNDATION - The Education Foundation for the St. Vrain Valley, an independent 501 (c)(3) organization, was founded in 1985. Our mission is to provide resources and educational opportunities, in partnership with St. Vrain Valley Schools and our local communities, to enhance student success and teacher excellence. Our goal is to supplement the traditional education experience in ways that maximize the effectiveness of teachers and result in enhanced achievement in an increasingly complex and competitive worldwide environment.  Since inception, the Foundation has made awards totaling approximately $1.5 million.

Although many of us drink orange juice for its great taste, new research suggests the potential for an added benefit: a more rejuvenated, carefree and positive outlook.  To bring these new findings to light, Florida Orange Juice recently teamed up with the comic geniuses at Funny or Die to create a humorous video illustrating how orange juice, the American breakfast staple, can help you take on the day.

The new video, "Florida Orange Juice: The Prescription for a Positive Outlook," stars a well-known actress and comedienne discovering the positive benefits of orange juice. In the video, the tired, disheveled actress has a difficult time getting out of bed and dreads the day ahead because “it’s just so early.” Thanks to the positive power of her morning glass of orange juice, she's able to take on her day with energy and enthusiasm. To view the Funny or Die collaboration, "Florida Orange Juice: The Prescription for a Positive Outlook," visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LtQdpX0nnu0

The link between orange juice and a more positive outlook is based on in-depth interviews with a small group of participants was also supported by a recent survey of 1,002 adults nationwide, which showed more than half of the respondents believe drinking a glass of orange juice provides an energizing boost, while 33 percent said it is a simple way to help improve their mood. Furthermore, when American adults drink orange juice, 56 percent of those surveyed said they feel rejuvenated, followed by “calm,” “positive,” “happy” and “alive.”[1]

“One key to happiness is focusing on the simple things that can improve your outlook on life,” said Dr. Lyubomirsky, a positive psychology expert and author of The How of Happiness. “No life is without stress or adversity, but by stepping back and appreciating the simple things, you can look at the bigger picture and learn to cope with obstacles. Such adjustments are small, but can have a big impact on many areas of your life.”

In addition to a the potential for helping achieve a more positive outlook, adding 100 percent orange juice to your daily diet provides a healthy source of energy and key nutrients to help maintain your overall health and wellbeing. In fact, one serving of 100 percent orange juice is more nutrient dense than many other commonly consumed fruit juices such as apple, grape, pineapple and prune.[2] As illustrated in the “Florida Orange Juice: The Prescription for a Positive Outlook" video, a glass of orange juice is one of the easiest and most nutritionally sound ways to start the day.

To view the humorous take on the benefits of 100 percent orange juice and what a “prescription” for the breakfast beverage can do for your morning, watch the "Florida Orange Juice: The Prescription for a Positive Outlook" video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LtQdpX0nnu0

To learn more about the positive power of orange juice, please visit Florida Orange Juice's Facebook Page here: https://www.facebook.com/FloridaOrangeJuice. In addition to the opportunity to engage with other orange juice lovers, you’ll gain access to videos, fun online games such as “Hangman” and “Pinata Party,” and a wide variety of recipes ranging from appetizers to kid-friendly meals.

Soccer Amigos/Futbol Friends Summer Youth Soccer Program Kicks Off Sixth Year

Fort Collins, CO – The summer 2012 Soccer Amigos/Futbol Friends soccer program will provide six weeknight practice/game sessions for youth of all ages and skill levels, and culminate with a Saturday mini-tournament event. Weeknight sessions featuring skills practice and games will be held on Thursday evenings from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at Northside Aztlan Community Center. The wrap-up event will be held Saturday, July 28 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Greenbriar Park.

Boys and girls from kindergarten through grade 12 are invited to participate in the program. Kids who want to register can sign up between 4:30 and 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 14 at Northside. The cost is $5 per participant (scholarships are available). Volunteers, including coaches and officials, are also welcome, and registration and a background check are required. A program flyer, along with the application/background check form for adult volunteers, can be requested by emailing bradleyrshannon@gmail.com.

This program is a result of work to help decrease the incidence of juvenile violence, gang activity, and child abuse and neglect, provide an opportunity to play soccer to those that might not otherwise have it, and educate participants about other local soccer options. The cost is being kept to a minimum in hopes that children from families of all income levels can participate and have healthy, positive activities to participate in during the summer.

Participants will be divided into groups for weekly training based on age and ability. They will practice and scrimmage on Thursdays from June 14 through July 26 from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at Northside Aztlan Community Center. Participants should bring or wear appropriate clothing – shorts and a t-shirt -- athletic footwear or soccer shoes, shin guards, water and bug spray. Weekly practice dates are June 14, 21, & 28 and July 12, 19, & 26.

The program culminates with a Fütbol Fiesta Tournament on Saturday, July 28 at Greenbriar Park from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. A barbeque for participants and their families is planned.

For more information on participating as a player or for sponsorship opportunities, contact Brad Shannon at (970) 420-8793 or brad@shannonmarcom.com.

Key Links

Boy Scouts of America Longs Peak Council: www.longspeakbsa.org

Soccer & Scouting www.soccerandscouting.org

City of Fort Collins: www.fcgov.com

The Vineyard Church: www.vineyardfc.org

Fort Collins Soccer Club/Arsenal Colorado: www.soccerfortcollins.org

CORE Center: www.cahs.colostate.edu/CORE/

Healthier Communities Coalition of Larimer County: www.healthylarimer.org

PVHS Foundation: www.foundation.pvhs.org

Edge Sports Center LLC: www.edgesportscenter.com

Arena Sports LLC: www.arenasportsllc.com

Net Results Soccer: www.netresultssoccer.com

STAR Goalkeeper Academy: www.stargoalkeeper.com

Northside Aztlan Community Center: www.fcgov.com/recreation/north-aztlan.php

Food Bank for Larimer County www.foodbanklarimer.org

The program is a collaborative effort of the Boy Scouts of America Longs Peak Council, City of Fort Collins, and Vineyard Church of the Rockies, with varying levels of support from additional area organizations, including the Food Bank for Larimer County, the Fort Collins Soccer Club/Arsenal Colorado, CORE Center, Healthier Communities Coalition of Larimer County, Poudre Valley Health System Foundation, Net Results Soccer, Edge Sports Center and Arena Sports LLC, and others. Any other area organizations are welcome to contribute as they see fit.