Blogs

When it comes to modern Colorado weddings, that old standard of reheated stale food from a farm located 1500 miles away and the tired options of chicken or fish simply won't do. Environmentally conscious couples and foodies alike are now opting for locally grown, fresh, and organic options in their wedding reception cuisine, and caterers are hearing them loud and clear. Breaking new culinary grounds is The Wild Basin Lodge's chef, Nick Fuster, who has the unique skill of finding, identifying and incorporating local wild mushrooms into a variety of dishes.  

The Wild Basin Lodge in Boulder County hosts over 250 weddings and events each year, and all food preparation is done on site by chef Fuster. You may remember Fuster from the recent blog post on My Town Colorado, and The Wild Basin Lodge staff is thrilled to have him on board. He came up with the inspired idea of mushroom hunting near the lodge and in the neighboring town of Lyons to add a local and organic flavor to cuisine for guests. While searching in the local area, he found porcini mushrooms, which are referred to as "Stein" in German. "Stein in German means rock because they blend in with the ground they grow in and look a lot like brown or reddish rocks," says Fuster. The chef slices up his finds, sautés them in olive oil and uses them for the lodge's wild mushroom risotto (a vegan dish that's often served at wedding receptions) and the wild mushroom sauce that tops Wild Basin steaks and New York strip steaks. "I found some right behind the lodge, but also around Allenspark and the Peaceful Valley area. But like every wild mushroom hunter, I can't tell the exact spots!" Says Fuster. 

Fuster has introduced a wide variety of new organic menu options with locally-grown ingredients to the lodge's wedding and event menus, and worldwide travelers are consistently impressed with the quality of appetizers, side dishes, and entrées that are all freshly prepared on site for each unique private event. The chef, who previously worked as the head chef at The MED Restaurant in Boulder, integrates his international training in Spain, Italy, Switzerland, Bermuda and Hawaii into several of his dishes while retaining a high standard of locally purchased ingredients. A few new menu options that have been added to the Wild Basin menu in 2013 include appetizers of bruschetta, Swedish meatballs, baked green lip mussels, and melon prosciutto and entrées of Colorado rack of lamb, crisp duck breast, and cornish game hen over a goat cheese cream sauce. Fuster purchases ingredients locally whenever possible and prides himself on preparing fresh cuisine for guests at the facility.

Fuster (pictured below in The Wild Basin Lodge's Copeland bar) continues to create new organic projects at the lodge. He started an herb garden next to the facility and uses fresh mint, cilantro, basil and other herbs in his popular cuisine. Do you have ideas for organic meals at your next Rocky Mountain event? Have you found wild mushrooms in Boulder County or have an interest in the hobby? Contact The Wild Basin Lodge to share your thoughts with Chef Fuster!

When you step on that field knowing that everything you worked for comes down to one game, you get that realization:

This is what it's all about, and this is why the game was made.... “unknown”

In Colorado, there are two tournaments that are the Platinum standard for soccer –

The CYS State Cup and the President’s Cup. Being successful in these tournaments is difficult. Winning the tournament, though, makes you the official State of Colorado Champions and entitles you to represent Colorado in the Regional tournament against the top teams from states in our Region (IV) consisting of the following state associations: Alaska, Arizona, California North, California South, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.

The Storm North Royal girls play competitive soccer in Colorado Youth Soccer's Super League division as one of 6 top teams in the State of under 11 girls. The Royal girls had a challenging weekend in front of them as they looked to move from 2nd to first in their league and also play in the President's Cup Championship match in the month long tournament.

Last Saturday September 23^rd the Storm North Royal girls were joined by their coaches Greg Johnson and Stephanie Short as they took the field to face off with Real National who have remained 1st in league play since the start of the season. Real started the game with good player and ball movement and pressure, winning the ball back quickly as soon as they lost possession. It proved to be too much for the Storm Royal girls as they found themselves chasing after the ball and were never able to get control of the game or in rhythm as a team. In the end the Royal girls suffered their first defeat of their season with a disappointing 4-0 loss. There was no time to feel down as they knew the following morning they needed to be at their best and confident for the President's Cup Finals. The Storm North Royal left the game and headed straight to their Goalie's birthday party to celebrate, and their stunning loss to Real was quickly forgotten.

Sunday morning at 8:15am the Royal girls where back on the field warming up for the President’s Cup Championship.  Their goal over the past year has been to win and see their name on the President’s Cup as their predecessor’s Storm North Royal ’01 girls coached by Bob and Trish Dickerson did the previous year.  Along with Coaches Greg and Stephanie the Storm North Director’s John and Jeff Carroll have joined the team throughout the series to cheer on and help the team on the sideline. Since January John and Jeff along with team trainer Alfie Hurley, have worked diligently with the Royal girls helping them with their on and off the ball technical ability, development and mentoring.   The Royal girls were all smiles knowing they had those familiar faces on the sideline for support with such a big game ahead of them.  Across the field stood a very formidable opponent, Edge Select (cit of Arvada’s top under 11 girls team) who thus far in the tournament had only been scored on once and hadn’t taken any loss or tie in the month long tournament.

From the start of the game both teams played at a high pace with a give it all you got attitude.  Both teams goalie’s and defenses made great saves and plays as the two teams fought hard looking for a goal and grab momentum. The game remained tied at 0-0 through regulation and then went into two ten minute overtimes. The Storm North Royal girls finally got the break they were looking for when their Striker Mallory Mooney won a ball from a defender and after using her first touch to send the ball toward their opponent’s goal and behind the defense, scoring the games first goal with 5 minutes left in the second and final over-time hoping to avoid ending the game tied and going to a penalty shoot-out.

Storm North Royal then looked to their Defensive Captain Chelsey Stock to draw back teammates and play more defensively and follow the spirit of their goalkeeper Halle Mackiewics who was on her way to her 3^rd shut-out of the series.  With just a few minutes left to play Edge Select stepped up their attack and the Royal girls knew they would have to dig deep in defending their lead and with tired legs the Royal girls began to defend their goal with sacrifice for their teammates. Unfortunately, Vanessa “Ness” Johnson ended up with a broken leg dealing with one of the attacks from Edge. That defensive effort from Ness saved a goal, and shortly after the re-start, Team Captain Alex Sandoval scored the 2nd goal of the game securing Storm North’s 2-0 victory and State Champion title. 

From your coaches, your parents, siblings, friends and opponents we are all so very proud of you girls.  Your hard work, dedication and sacrifice for the game you love is an inspiration to all! 

If you want something and work for it, you will achieve it!

Define Defense is partnering up with Coach Meg from Spark Behavior Solutions to offer you a workshop about performance, motivation and learn how to master healthy habits for better results! This great workshop will take place at the Define Defense studio on November 15th from 6-7.30pm. 

Before the workshop, we will be offering a free TRX / Cross Training class from 5-6pm for our clients and all workshop attendees. 

$35 for DD members
$45 for non DD members


Please register by emailing Coach Meg at info@sparkbehavior.com

Define Defense is expanding! We will be adding kettle bell classes to our program soon and are also looking for an individual or company who wants to run Yoga or Pilates classes independently in our premium facility in Downtown Boulder!

Our studio has 1,040 square feet of mats, has a speaker system and has a wall of mirrors. It is a great spot for Yoga or Pilates classes so we are looking for someone who wants to run their own program in our facility. This person will be solely responsible for their program and will be able to run their own classes during their own times.

If you are interested or know of someone who might be, let us know at Info@DefineDefense.com !

More info here: http://www.definedefense.com/Boulder/blog_files/Yoga-Studio-Opportunity.html

Define Defense now offers 4 week self defense courses on Fridays from 5-6pm. In these 4 classes, we go over:

- Self defense on the floor against a standing attacker
- Self defense against sexual assault
- Self defense against grabs, chokes and other forceful attacks
- Effective striking
- How to avoid dangerous situations
- How to maximize your chances of escape
- How to use pepper sprays (and other defense sprays)
- Vital points, body language and other proven methods to get yourself into safety

The next self defense course will take place on these dates:
October 26th
November 2nd
November 9th
November 16th
Every attendee will receive an information packet. If you cannot attend all 4 consecutive classes, you can use your remaining class(es) during the next course dates.

The price for the full program is only $75.
If you want to reserve a spot, please send us a message or register here. Spots are limited!

This program combines all of the most effective and realistic ways to defend yourself against any dangers that may occur. We focus on prevention as well as protecting yourself and others. In this course, you will learn how to deal with a crisis situation, mentally as well as physically. Everything we teach is relevant to real situations and applies more realistic training methods for improved results. 

Thirty years ago, the UN did something wonderful. They declared Sept 21 of every year the International Day of Peace, or Peace Day for short.

I don't know how others celebrated this great day, but I found a way. Here's the story: 

War is unfortunately a constant in our world. From the unrest in the Middle East to the summer of violence we’ve experienced closed to home, violence impacts our children daily. 

For the past thirty-two years, the United Nations has declared September 21^st the International Day of Peace. Observed around the world, it is a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations.  The UN Secretary, General Ban Ki-moon has urged everyone to think about how they could contribute. This year’s theme: “Sustainable Peace for a Sustainable Future.”

The Church of Scientology, Colorado, located at 24^th and Blake just a few blocks east of Coors Field, teamed up with Youth for Human Rights International, a secular organization dedicated to teaching youth around the world about their human rights.  The group decided that the best way to celebrate peace was to teach children how knowing about your human rights can help create a more peaceful world.  “Our children are our most sustainable resource,” the Director of Public Affairs, Dr. Patricia Ross, stated.  “What better way to honor this year’s theme?”

In 1948, Eleanor Roosevelt spear-headed the effort to ratify the Declaration of Human Rights in the United Nations.  There are thirty rights, among them, “We’re all born Free and Equal,” “Don’t Discriminate,” “The Freedom to Move,” and “The Right to Play.” Children from Englewood, Broomfield, Arvada, Denver, gathered at the Church to discuss what peace is, watch a number of short videos on human rights, and talk about how ideas such as “No slavery” or “The Right to Privacy,” affected not just themselves as individuals but their ability to create peace.  They then wrote messages of peace they crafted—“Peace makes you happy. Peace is  calm” and  “Peace is awesome,” to give just two examples—attached them to balloons, and let the balloons fly free shouting “peace!” as loud as they could.

One mother observed, I knew as I watched my daughter make the connection between peace and human rights that here was an anchor.  Peace is something that is now more real to her, and by knowing that she has these wonderful, amazing things called ‘human rights,’ it gives me a way to help her understand what’s going on in the world, both good and bad.” Another mother said that she was glad her son was learning his human rights at such a young age.  “I never thought about it before,” she continued, “but I didn’t know about my rights until I was older and getting into trouble.  Then I was being told I had these things called rights. I am so glad that he knows now that he has rights.”

“Rights belong to everyone. They’re something that can’t be taken away,” the children all agreed, and they wondered who would end up getting their message of peace.

So if you find a card attached to a remnant of a balloon on the street or in your back yard that has one of these messages of peace written in a child’s scrawl, you know what you hold.  Celebrate the idea of peace and know that human rights aren’t just some words on paper. They are real, living things that can help create peace in the world.

For more information on the Declaration of Human Rights, visit www.YouthforHumanRights.org.  For more information about the Wings for Peace program, you can contact me, Patricia Ross, Director of Public Affairs, Church of Scientology, Denver at (303) 789-7668. 

Total Well-Being, the nation’s leading provider of performance-based corporate wellness, congratulates five of its clients for being named as 2012 Healthiest Employers by The Denver Business Journal. Honored at a luncheon on September 19, all five employers have developed and implemented comprehensive performance-based wellness programs in partnership with Total Well-Being.

Total Well-Being clients who were honored include:

• Small-sized businesses: RMH Group
• Medium-sized businesses: Chipotle Mexican Grill, Van Gilder Insurance Company
• Large-sized businesses: Holland & Hart
• X-large-sized businesses: Sage Hospitality

“This recognition tells the outside world what we have known for a long time – that these organizations have a strong commitment to building happier, healthier workplaces,” said Colleen Reilly, MBA/MSM, president and founder of Total Well-Being. “Total Well-Being is proud to have partnered with our clients to build the platforms that helped them to achieve this honor.”

According to The Denver Business Journal, the Healthiest Employer competition aims to identify and recognize “metro-area employers who were truly focused on their workers’ wellness.”

Key considerations that were scored included the presence of tobacco-free workplace policies, health risk assessment and appraisal, obesity coaching and management, biometric screenings and incentives. Dependent access to wellness initiatives and the ability of the organization to track absenteeism due to sickness were also judged.

While each of these five honorees has employed a tailored wellness program, a few elements are present in all of their initiatives. With the support of Total Well-Being, all five employers implement evidence-based strategies. All take a holistic approach to wellness that considers the physical, financial, personal and professional elements of well-being. Finally, all have a strong focus on results, both from an employee health standpoint and from a business performance standpoint.

“Although our clients may differ in size and scope, they are singularly committed to integrating wellness into every facet of their companies’ cultures,” said Reilly. “We have helped them put strategies in place to prevent, avoid and reverse the most common and costly risk factors.”

Total Well-Being designs and implements workplace wellness solutions that completely integrate wellness strategy into business strategy, with a focus on driving business results through health. By providing ongoing analysis of outcomes and constant tweaking, Total Well-Being helps its clients maximize results. The workplace wellness company has helped employers experience significantly higher than average employee participation, engagement and productivity rates, and its solutions have helped its clients save 9 to 15 percent on healthcare costs.

LUNAFEST®, the traveling fundraising film festival, is dedicated to promoting awareness about women's issues, highlighting women filmmakers, and bringing women together in their communities. The Boulder, Colo. LUNAFEST will be on the big screen at the Boulder Theater on October 11, 2012. 

This year’s Boulder LUNAFEST is excited and proud to announce documentary film producer Olivia Ahnemann as the 2012 emcee. Ahnemann was the co-producer on The Cove, a documentary about the slaughter of dolphins in Japan. The Cove has won more than 70 awards globally from film festivals and critics, including Best Feature Documentary at the 2009 Academy Awards.

“As a female filmmaker, the idea of promoting women filmmakers and films about women and for women is very close to my heart,” shares Ahnemann. “Filmmakers put so much blood, sweat and tears into their work, they all deserve an audience, and LUNAFEST is a wonderful opportunity for these special stories to be shared.”

A resident of Boulder, Colo., Ahnemann has been producing and directing documentaries since 1998. She has profiled Winston Blackmore’s polygamist clan in British Columbia for National Geographic and Europe’s royal families for A&E; followed BASE jumpers in Chamonix, France and big wave surfers in South Africa, Hawaii, Mexico and Tahiti for Warren Miller Entertainment; and filmed men and women building the new Bay Bridge in Oakland for Discovery.

Following the film program, Ahnemann will be available for a Q&A to answer questions about filmmaking, producing and her unique experiences.

The Boulder LUNAFEST will be at the Boulder Theater, 2032 14^th Street, on October 11, 2012. The program begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are $17.50, $12.50 for students. Purchase tickets at the box office or online at http://www.bouldertheater.com/event/lunafest-short-films-by-for-about-women. 

For more about LUNAFEST, visit www.lunafest.org. 

 I. Alan Appt’s New Book, “The Strength In Knowing” To Be Released October,2012  

The Truth Beyond Our Belief Systems and A Fresh Path Finding Love, Peace and Joy

The Strength in Knowing is a personal, detailed narrative in obtaining true happiness and near ultimate awareness through an ongoing understanding of existence. In addition, the book, derived from Appt’s life experiences, offers an interpretation and depiction of a fresh, essential path to a heightened understanding of belief systems, love, peace, joy, and personal and spiritual development—as well as their application. This book is his quest to convey a learning experience that others can utilize in hopes of having a better understanding of their life and it is meaning, and that no one need fear existential questions. This understanding and higher level of consciousness, described in his book can be gained through techniques such as meditation and a self-observed mind, and a specific path conveyed by the author which can enrich lives and grant the peace that is essential to a fulfilled existence.

 Appt believes his profound yet simple teachings in this book will interest many because of the honest, in-depth practical knowledge regarding life, purpose, and meaning. It tackles a subject that sparks everyone’s interest, written from personal experience in a language that is easy to absorb. He is ready to provide more of a contribution from his life than simply “being a good person.” Although his book satisfies this desire, it, more importantly, offers the reader something essential—a true and precise understanding of life, and the ability to attain true happiness.

 When he was ten, he had philosophical thoughts about life. He became frightened of questions such as, “Where did I come from?” “Who am I?” and “Where am I going?” He tried desperately to ignore them. He finally realized, with the help of age and study, that he was not being plagued with this philosophy, but rather finding an understanding of life. In addition, to discovering a unique awareness of the Universe, he has undergone many spiritual events, including a vision of Jesus and an out-of-body experience. It is important now that he conveys to others what he has learned.

 I. Alan Appt currently resides in mid-west. He lives with his wife Pam, Murphy the very lovable cat, and Dolly the vocal yellow nape Amazon parrot. He has two adult children a girl and boy and one grandchild.  Appt is an accomplished Impressionistic Artist in the medium of oil with the sole use of palette knives, and has frequent Art shows. He is a licensed United States Coast Guard Captain, retired, owned and operated a sailing charter business for six years on the west coast of Florida. Sailing the Caribbean has added another significant piece of awareness in itself to his life. Over the past two decades, he has taught and practiced intense meditation on a daily basis. He is proficient and Master in and has taught Universal Energy (UE) for (Healing) studying under Master Luong Minh Dang as well as Kinesiology a muscle testing process.. He is a spiritual counselor, motivational speaker and an Ordained Interfaith Minister.

With peace,

I. Alan Appt

http://www.ialanappt.com/

Links to Articles
  

http://interact.stltoday.com/pr/arts-entertainment/PR06091208579335

 
http://interact.stltoday.com/pr/arts-entertainment/PR06241202159482

 
http://www.prlog.org/11895721-the-strength-in-knowing-alan-appts-new-book-scheduled-release-september-2012.html
 

http://www.prlog.org/11904232-time-is-actually-passing-faster.html

 
http://www.prlog.org/11936730-hartford-baines-publishers-relocate.html

 
http://www.prlog.org/11895690-ialan-appts-new-book-the-strength-in-knowing.html

 
http://bio.prlog.org/Authortoo/50003012-i-alan-appt.html

Travis Wolcott races a 2012 Volkswagen Jetta GLI for the 3Zero3 Team.

BOULDER -- Race car driver Travis Wolcott capped an outstanding start to his professional career with a third-place finish Aug. 25 at the Sonoma Grand Prix. The Boulder resident started sixth in a 2012 Volkswagen Jetta GLI with Pirelli tires and quickly moved up to challenge the leaders at the SCCA Pirelli World Challenge event.

Wolcott placed second in his first professional race in the SCCA Pirelli World Challenge series. He qualified third at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course on Aug. 4 and challenged the winner of the Touring Class event.

At Sonoma, Wolcott moved deftly through the pack and closed in on the second-place driver, finishing only 4 tenths of a second behind. The race’s broadcast announcers called his Jetta “the Blue Machine.” The blue-and-white car was sponsored by Emich Volkswagen, StopTech and 3ZERO3 Motorsports in Denver.

“I outraced some very good, more experienced competitors,” said Wolcott. “I am going to take the successes of the two weekends and build on them for next season.”

Wolcott performed well in his first appearance at Sonoma, said his coach, race car champion Gary Sheehan. “It's a high-risk track because there are blind corners and places you can go off the track. Travis was up against a challenge.”

“After the first day, he dropped 3 seconds off his lap time. On his first race, he dropped another half-second, which is very significant,” Sheehan said. “Travis continued to show increased pace throughout the weekend.”

“The Jetta and its Pirelli tires handled very well,” Wolcott said of the back-to-back races that Saturday. “We had lots of car for the second race, and we made that pay off.”

Wolcott has real promise as a professional racer, said Sheehan, who is also a driving coach. “Travis listened and then executed on the track. He made significant improvements over the weekend. I would certainly enjoy the opportunity to work with him again.”

During the off-season, Wolcott is talking with sponsors, partners and others who took notice of his strong start.

“We have a fast Volkswagen and a capable team here at 3ZERO3 Motorsports. We've been getting great responses from the series and the fans,” he said. “The goal now is to make sure we can run the full season in 2013 and challenge for a championship.”

ABOUT TRAVIS WOLCOTT

Travis Wolcott is a professional race car driver based in Boulder, Colo. He completes in the Touring Car class of SCCA Pirelli World Challenge in a 2012 Volkswagen Jetta GLI. He received his SCCA Competition license in late 2009 and won his first divisional championship in 2010. He races with the team at Emich Volkswagen and 3Zero3 Motorsports in Denver.

Wolcott currently offers opportunities for corporate sponsorship, event appearances, racetrack ride-alongs, private coaching, and product endorsements and distributions. For more information on Wolcott, please visit his Facebook page at https://wwwhttps://www.facebook.com/travis.wolcott.3.facebook.com/travis.wolcott.3.

The Boy Scouts want you! Now is the time to experience the thrill of adventure as a part of Americas foremost youth program for boys—Boy Scouts. Come check out what our local Boy Scout Troops have to offer on October 4th at 7:00pm at the LDS Quail Building in Arvada (6460 Quail St).

Designed for boys ages 11 to 18, Boy Scouting combines outdoor activities, sports, academics, and more in a fun andexciting program that helps boys experience adventure they never thought possible! Boy Scout troops will show off their stuff to youth and adults on October 4th at 7:00pm at the LDS Quail Building in Arvada (6460 Quail St). Interested boys and parents are encouraged to attend this meeting.

Scouting is composed of three different developmental programs to meet the needs of the youth in your area. The Cub Scouts is a family and neighborhood based program for 1st - 5th grade boys. The Boy Scouts is for 11 - 18 year old boys, and teaches them life skills. Venturing is for 14 - 21 year old boys and girls, and teaches them leadership skills through high adventure activities. To find a Scouting unit near you, please visit www.BeAScout.org.

The Boy Scouts of America is comprised of more than one million volunteers working together for the sole purpose of helping its nearly three million youth succeed in life.For more information, contact Scot Fuller at 720.266.2137 or at scot.fuller@scouting.org.

Ecotech Institute, the first and only college entirely focused on preparing America’s workforce for careers in clean technology and sustainability, will hold its second-ever graduation today, Monday, September 24, 2012 at The Summit Conference and Event Center in Aurora, CO. Forty-four graduates, including six military veterans, will cross the stage. They will receive associate’s degrees in Wind Energy Technology, Solar Energy Technology, Renewable Energy Technology and Electrical Engineering Technology.

This group of graduates, in addition to the first graduating class, makes up the students who began coursework in a temporary facility before Ecotech’s campus was completed.

“We take pride in our visionary students, the people who believed in Ecotech before we had elaborate lab equipment and a LEED-certified campus,” said Mike Seifert, president of Ecotech Institute. “These students shared our vision and will soon receive their diploma, arming them for success in the vast world of green jobs.”

Ecotech hosted its first graduation on June 20, 2012 and approximately 90 percent of graduates are now working in cleantech positions around the country, including Hawaii.

All Ecotech 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 serve as academic and business leaders in cleantech industries, helped design the school’s practical curriculum.

“It feels good knowing that I now have an advantage above others who are also pursuing this career, but who don’t have the technical training I received at Ecotech,” said Joe Kellogg, who is graduating with a degree in Solar Energy Technology. “I absorbed an abundant knowledge in each class from the best instructors and have the tools to be successful.”

The September 2012 graduating class is made up of students from 10 states and Mexico. Listed below are their hometowns, names and degree programs:

Alabama

Jackson’s Gap

• Jason Chesnutt, Wind Energy Technology

Colorado

Aurora

• Tumu Johnson, Electrical Engineering Technology

• David Shannon, Electrical Engineering Technology

• Clint Turner, Wind Energy Technology

• Mark Westrate, Solar Energy Technology

Boulder

• Nicholas Dotter, Electrical Engineering Technology

Broomfield

• Joshua Schaefer, Solar Energy Technology

Colorado Springs

• Deiyung Downey, Wind Energy Technology

• Matthew Morin, Solar Energy Technology

Denver

• Steve Appling, Wind Energy Technology

• Jacob Bratsky, Electrical Engineering Technology

• Chris Horn, Wind Energy Technology

• Thanos Hunt, Renewable Energy Technology

• Joe Kellogg, Solar Energy Technology

• Alejandro Mesa, Electrical Engineering Technology

• Brett Oakes, Renewable Energy Technology

• Esteban Orl, Wind Energy Technology

• Ty Simpson, Renewable Energy Technology

• Joshua Stoppel, Solar Energy Technology

• Josh Yaeger, Electrical Engineering Technology

Divide

• Matt Vetis, Solar Energy Technology

Henderson

• Gil Negron, Solar Energy Technology

Littleton

• Edward Buess, Wind Energy Technology

• Kent Mortensen, Wind Energy Technology

Morrison

• Sean Johnston, Renewable Energy Technology

Nederland

• Nathan Baumhover, Renewable Energy Technology

Northglenn

• Zac Sturgill, Wind Energy Technology

Parker

• Robert Parker, Wind Energy Technology

Connecticut

Salem

• Michael Scace, Solar Energy Technology

Kansas

Minneola

• Darlene Redden, Solar Energy Technology

Norton

• Timothy Millan, Wind Energy Technology

Oakley

• Terry Farmer, Solar Energy Technology

Mexico

Berwick

• Louis Sanfacon, Electrical Engineering Technology

Zacatecas

• Jose Calderon-Ibanez, Electrical Engineering Technology

Michigan

Battle Creek

• Les Crosby, Wind Energy Technology

Muskegon

• Jordan Veltman, Electrical Engineering

Missouri

St. Louis

• Josh Crambert, Wind Energy Technology

New York

Jamestown

• Richard Chase II, Solar Energy Technology

New York City

• Fatih Erogla, Solar Energy Technology

Oregon

Aumsville

• Michael Streight, Wind Energy Technology

Pennsylvania

Canonsburg

• Kevin King, Electrical Engineering

Texas

Corpus Christi

• Shawn Sanders, Wind Energy Technology

Dallas

• Brandon Huckaby, Wind Energy Technology

What your parents haven't told you: How the Smart Grid will allow you to fill-up your electric car for the equivalent of 50-cents a gallon using clean, renewable energy!

Fort Collins, CO September 27, 2012— Spirae’s Center for Smart Grid Advancement is hosting more than 175 high school students from various towns along Colorado’s front range to learn about our energy future — the smart grid!

Where:The Lincoln Center’s Magnolia Theater — 417 West Magnolia Street Fort Collins, CO 80521

When:Thursday, September 27, 2012, Noon—1:45 pm

What:Over the next few years, our increased reliance on new energy sources and the ways that we receive and use power will create many new opportunities for work and study in the energy sector! Students will learn how our natural energy sources will communicate with our homes, cars and businesses to meet the energy needs of our future through a smart grid simulation and a fun presentation by an international leader in energy technologies. After the workshop, students will participate in a career panel to discuss academic options and career paths with local leaders from Colorado’s top smart grid businesses and utility companies. Go to http://www.smartgrid-live.com/ for more information.

Education Program Agenda and Overview

12:00 pm — Opening remarks by Monisha M. Merchant, Senior Advisor for Business Affairs to U.S. Senator Michael F. Bennet

12:05 pm — Interactive presentation on the smart grid by Dan Bihn. Dan teaches courses on renewable energy and the smart grid for the corporate training company, Enerdynamics, Inc. While others “dumb down” the story, Dan aspires to “brighten up” the story – making the content understandable and genuinely interesting.

1:15 pm — Career panel moderated by Dele Johnson from Groundwork Colorado. The panelists are:

• Utility Perspective: Baird McKevitt, Design Supervisor, Xcel Energy
• Education Perspective: Conwell Dickey, Digital Energy Program Manager, University of Colorado, Boulder
• Industry Career Perspective: Darren Edgar, Software Engineer, Spirae—a smart grid solutions company
• Hiring Perspective: Lanie Prouse, Managing Director, Mycoff, Fry & Prouse—recruiters for the utility industries

Why Do We Need to Learn About the Smart Grid?

The City of Fort Collins will receive $18.1 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Energy to develop a smart-grid energy management system. Fort Collins and its residents will experience the following benefits from this project:

• Reduced Electricity Costs for Customers
• Increased Electricity Service Reliability and Power Quality
• Reduced Costs from Equipment Failures and Distribution Line losses
• Reduced Greenhouse Gas Emissions

References: ARRA Smart Grid Investment Grants, City of Fort Collins Award

Contact: Julie Zinn-Patt, COO, Spirae | JZinnPatti@Spirae.com | Office: 970 449 8528

Stephanie Fry, Groundwork Colorado | stephanie@groundworkcolorado.org | Office: 303 455 5600

The process of detecting and evaluating hail damage is subjective at best, and often everyone involved will offer a different assessment. Damage can range from large, highly visible dents and tears to almost undetectable indentations or invisible granule damage. However, even small amounts of damage can harm the surfacing material, leading to deterioration of the shingles months later. Normally, if a shingle indicates outward damage, the underlying components may be compromised and affected to some degree.

On damaged roofs, the hail impact may affect the embedment of the granular surfacing in the asphalt top coating. This loosens the granules, potentially allowing the granules to separate from the coating layer and wash off the roof. Without the granule surfacing, the asphalt top coating is exposed to ultraviolet radiation from ordinary sunlight and will eventually deteriorate, exposing the fiberglass substrate and creating the potential for a leak. On severe hail damage, the fiberglass substrate may be physically broken further, compromising the weather integrity of the shingle.Without visible damage there is no real way to be sure how much damage shingles have encountered. Outward damage may not appear until months or years later.In accordance with the terms of the Limited Warranty, there is no coverage for damage caused by hail. However, should the shingles be damaged by hail, there is continuing coverage for manufacturing defects.There is a definite distinction between a manufacturing defect and damage caused by hail.When evaluating hail damage, look for the following conditions:

Tears in the Shingle – Tears are normally worse on reproofs due to the irregular surface support. The main areas showing damage usually include hips, ridges, sides of dragon’s teeth, and butt edges of shingles.
Indentations in the Shingle – Indentations will be either round or half-moon shaped. Some damage may not be visible and will require you to feel for any indentations, or to break the bonds of the shingle and feel the backside for any irregularities.

Excessive Granule Loss – May be an indicator of possible damage. Check gutters or the ground around the house for loose granules. Accelerated granule loss will significantly reduce the life of the shingle.

Other Collateral Damage:

• Broken skylights
• Broken windows
• Tree or shrub damage
• Car dents

Hailstones vary in size, shape and hardness. They can create a random pattern of dents or depressions consisting of various sizes, shapes and depths. If you keep in mind the typical random pattern of hail damage when evaluating a damaged roof, you should be able to assess the situation properly. If you have any further questions regarding hail damage, contact your homeowner’s insurance company.

Information provided by: Remedy Roofing, Lakewood, CO www.remedyroofing.com

Even Roofs have Enemies

A roof system's performance is affected by numerous factors. Knowing about the following will help you make informed roof system buying decisions:

Sun: Heat and ultraviolet rays cause roofing materials to deteriorate over time. Deterioration can occur faster on the sides facing west or south.

Rain: When water gets underneath shingles, shakes or other roofing materials, it can work its way to the roof deck and cause the roof structure to rot. Extra moisture encourages mildew and rot elsewhere in a house, including walls, ceilings, insulation and electrical systems.

Wind: High winds can lift shingles' edges (or other roofing materials) and force water and debris underneath them. Extremely high winds can cause extensive damage.

Snow and ice: Melting snow often refreezes at a roof's overhang where the surface is cooler, forming an ice dam. This blocks proper drainage into the gutter. Water backs up under the shingles (or other roofing materials) and seeps into the interior. During the early melt stages, gutters and downspouts can be the first to fill with ice and be damaged beyond repair or even torn off a house or building.

Condensation: Condensation can result from the buildup of relatively warm, moisture-laden air. Moisture in a poorly ventilated attic promotes decay of wood sheathing and rafters, possibly destroying a roof structure. Sufficient attic ventilation can be achieved by installing larger or additional vents and will help alleviate problems because the attic air temperature will be closer to the outside air temperature.

Moss and algae: Moss can grow on moist wood shingles and shakes. Once it grows, moss holds even more moisture to a roof system's surface, causing rot. In addition, moss roots also can work their way into a wood deck and structure. Algae also grows in damp, shaded areas on wood or asphalt shingle roof systems. Besides creating a black-green stain, algae can retain moisture, causing rot and deterioration. Trees and bushes should be trimmed away from homes and buildings to eliminate damp, shaded areas, and gutters should be kept clean to ensure good drainage.

Trees and leaves: Tree branches touching a roof will scratch and gouge roofing materials when the branches are blown by the wind. Falling branches from overhanging trees can damage, or even puncture, shingles and other roofing materials. Leaves on a roof system's surface retain moisture and cause rot, and leaves in the gutters block drainage.

Missing or torn shingles: The key to a roof system's effectiveness is complete protection. When shingles are missing or torn off, a roof structure and home or building interior are vulnerable to water damage and rot. The problem is likely to spread-nearby shingles also are ripped easily or blown away. Missing or torn shingles should be replaced as soon as possible.

Shingle deterioration: When shingles are old and worn out, they curl, split and lose their waterproofing effectiveness. Weakened shingles easily are blown off, torn or lifted by wind gusts. The end result is structural rot and interior damage. A deteriorated roof system only gets worse with time-it should be replaced as soon as possible.

Flashing deterioration: Many apparent roof leaks really are flashing leaks. Without good, tight flashings around chimneys, vents, skylights and wall/roof junctions, water can enter a home or building and cause damage to walls, ceilings, insulation and electrical systems. Flashings should be checked as part of a biannual roof inspection and gutter cleaning.

Resources: Remedy Roofing, Lakewood, CO www.remedyroofing.com

Ecotech Institute, the first and only college focused entirely on preparing America’s workforce for careers in renewable energy and sustainability, announced it will host a public event on Thursday, September 20 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. You are invited to take a personalized tour, meet program directors and faculty and learn more about the future of green jobs!

WHAT: Ecotech Institute Open House

DATE: September 20, 2012

TIME: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

LOCATION: Ecotech Campus, 1400 S. Abilene Street, Aurora, CO 80012

DETAILS: Free admission; Open to the public

Ecotech Institute, which is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, offers six highly practical associate’s degree programs that provide graduates with skills valued by today’s alternative renewable energy employers.  The next round of classes begins in October and applications are always accepted. 

Ecotech’s program line-up includes:

• Power Utility Technician, Associate of Applied Science
• Solar Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science
• Wind Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science
• Renewable Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science
• Energy Efficiency Program, Associate of Applied Science
• Electrical Energy Technology, Associate of Applied Science

Ecotech Institute, the first and only college focused entirely on preparing America’s workforce for careers in renewable energy and sustainability, has named Zhanna Stavina as the school’s new Director of Admissions.

In her role, Stavina will lead a team of admissions associates who serve as liaisons for potential and incoming students. She will also make and maintain connections with students, organizations, guidance counselors, military liaisons and others who may benefit from an Ecotech education or partnership.

Ms. Stavina has recently served as both a director of enrollment and an instructor at the University of Phoenix in Lone Tree, Colorado. She simultaneously taught in the School of Business and Social Sciences while successfully leading a team of admissions professionals. Before joining Ecotech, she also worked as an enrollment manager and enrollment counselor, receiving accolades as a top performer. She has also worked in career services and admissions at Denver School of Massage Therapy and ITT Technical Institute.

“Zhanna’s experience and expertise is perfect for Ecotech and she’s someone who exudes enthusiasm about what we deliver to students, employers, partners and the community,” said Mike Seifert, president of Ecotech Institute. “We are delighted to have her on board and look forward to Zhanna representing our school and executive team.”

Stavina received her Master of Business Administration from University of Phoenix and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from University of Colorado.  

“It is an honor be in a position where I can share Ecotech Institute with people who could benefit from its unique offerings,” said Stavina. “In a short time, Ecotech has proven to offer quality education, a strong community and graduates who are making a difference. I am proud to be part of the Ecotech family.”

Ecotech Institute, which is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools, offers six highly practical renewable energy degree programs created with employer input 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 October and applications are always accepted. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify.