Serving the east-metro area including: THE CHAMBER Aurora Bennett Centennial Stapleton Denver JAN/FEB 2019 NEWSLETTER Make your reservations now: Sales Tax Rule May Increase Costs The Chamber’s 64th Annual Awards Dinner and Hurt Businesses in Colorado

retail season, which increases the burden and n December 2018, the Colorado Department of expense to businesses collecting the tax. These Revenue postponed enforcement of rules on use substantial costs and administrative challenges that FIRE & Itax and sales tax collection for in-state and out- businesses face in order to comply are significant, of-state retailers. The new rules will be delayed until and in some cases, businesses don’t think they have May 31, 2019 to allow the new Colorado General the resources or ability to comply with the new Assembly to address this issue. Previously and until laws. ICE May 31, sales taxes were only paid if a business had We have written a letter to the Department of a physical location in the state where the goods Revenue to delay implementing the new rules until Silent Auction were sold. three things happen: Hors d’oeuvres In response, the Colorado Department of 1. The Colorado General Assembly has a chance to Revenue adopted new sales tax rules that were to Cocktails, Wine, and Beer finish the hard work it started this summer to be effective Dec. 1, 2018, requiring businesses to simplify the sales and use tax-collection process. collect state and local sales tax based on the tax Dinner 2. The software and structure is in place to make the rates at the point of delivery in all of Colorado’s new rules work for our business members. Awards Presentations hundreds of taxing districts. Music and Dancing The Chamber supports fair and comprehensive 3. The Colorado Department of Revenue tax collection, as well as leveling the playing field communicates the changes to those affected, not between online retailers and small businesses, but only including retailers but their CPA’s also. Friday, March 15, 2019 has concerns about the rule’s approach and The Chamber will continue to advocate and fight implementation. We felt it to be unfair that the for a more business-friendly process and we 5 – 10 pm compliance date of Dec. 1 was two-thirds of the way appreciate suggestions on how to make the process through a reporting quarter and at the peak of the work for all. n DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Denver 3203 Quebec St., Hougen Named Most Admired CEO Denver, CO 80207 President and CEO of The Aurora Chamber of Commerce Kevin Hougen received a Most Admired CEOs Award from the Denver Business Thank you to our title sponsor: Journal (DBJ) at a ceremony on November 13, 2018, held at the Denver Marriott Tech Center. 2018 is the inaugural class of the DBJ’s Most Admired CEOs Award, which recognizes metro- area executives for leading the way in business and community engagement. Hougen was nominated by FirstBank President of the Aurora Market Shannon Jones. Hougen’s knowledge about the community, what’s happening at the Legislature, involvement in local and statewide military advocacy, and being an advisor to key leaders, all serve as invaluable resources for Chamber members and the community. In his nomination, it was stated that “Kevin doesn't shy away from challenges and approaches them with a community-minded and business point of view — which speaks directly to Most Admired CEO Kevin Hougen with staff at the November 13, 2018 DBJ Awards Ceremony. [continued on page 2] President’s ADMIRED CEO (con’t) the Chamber's tagline of Community First, Business Always." Letter Hougen has been with The Chamber for 22 years, serving as the president for 20. His energy and enthusiasm for his work, his community support, and his welcoming and friendly demeanor have not wavered. That is a testimonial to his commitment. He shares his knowledge in Resolutions many ways, affecting and helping countless businesses and people in the community. Kevin Hougen for 2019 Congratulations to Kevin Hougen, president and CEO of the Aurora President & CEO Chamber of Commerce on receiving this well-deserved recognition. n

I would like to take this opportunity to share my resolutions for the New Year. These are resolutions for me personally, as well as for The Congressman Mike Coffman Recognizes Chamber as an organization, dedicated to Community First, Business Always: Hougen with Congressional Record Personal resolution: Building Business Contacts and Relationships, A Congressional Record from not only within Colorado and the US, but worldwide. Congressman Mike Coffman was presented to Chamber President Professional goals: Knowledge to succeed and working on promoting Kevin Hougen on November 28, 2018, the communities we serve. by the Congressman’s Director of The Chamber’s resolution: Creating a strong local economy and Constituent Outreach Aurora Ogg. representing business interests, especially with a growing divide within The presentation was a surprise for our elected office holders. Hougen, who received a standing Core Resolutions for 2019: ovation by the board. We work hard to strengthen our communities, to encourage growth The Record, which was read in the and to identify needs and opportunities. Our objectives as your Chamber House of Representatives on are to: November 27, reads: • Promote a strong local economy “Mr Speaker, I rise today to recognize the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Aurora Chamber of Commerce, Kevin Hougen. • Provide opportunities to network and build relationships Recently, the Denver Business Journal recognized Kevin with its 2018 • Deliver programs to help businesses grow Most Admired Chief Executive Officer honor. This prestigious award is • Represent and advocate on behalf of the business community given only to those with a proven record of innovation, who act as a standard-bearer for their organization, as a community role model, and • Enhance commerce through community stewardship exert exceptional leadership within their organization and the community. I am proud to see Kevin receive this award for his more than two decades of dedicated service to my hometown of Aurora, CO.” To read the entire Record, go to AuroraChamberCO on Facebook. n ChamberBoard EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS DIRECTORS STAFF Tyrone Adams | Colorado Association of Realtors Kevin Hougen | President and CEO CHAIR OF THE BOARD Johnny Choate | The GEO Group Joe Barela | Skillful — A Markle Initiative Rene J. Simard | Executive Vice President Christy Dobson | Children’s Hospital Colorado Rebecca Ebner | Administrative Assistant CHAIR-ELECT Chris Fasching | Felsburg Holt & Ullevig Betsy Oudenhoven, PhD | Beth Klein | FirstBank - Aurora Havana Rachel Gruber | Director of Business Development and Events Community College of Aurora Kristi Kleinholz | Mesa Moving & Storage Linda Lillyblad | Finance Director Rich Kolberg | The Boeing Company Beau Martinez | Membership Development IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR Peter Lee | UNI Worldwide Financial Marketing Suzanne Pitrusu | Community Banks of Colorado Molly Markert | Colorado Access Tamara Mohamed | Director of Community Relations TREASURER John McCormick | CenturyLink Mitzi Schindler | Communications Director Rebecca Kelley | EKS&H Keith Peterson | University of Colorado Health Kerry Ryan | Wells Fargo-Business Banking ASSOCIATES SECRETARY Louis Salazar | ConocoPhillips Dianne McCallister, MD | Michael Sheldon | Aurora Highlands Kathryn Lobdell | Colorado Procurement Technical The Medical Center of Aurora Brian Sowl | Nelnet Assistance Centers (PTAC) VICE CHAIR-COMMUNITY SERVICES ...... Dale Mingilton | Adams 14 Education Foundation Mario Waller | Six & Six, inc. | Newsletter Design HONORARY DIRECTORS VICE CHAIR-BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Gian Gandalfo | Hilton Garden Inn Denver Airport Bruce Dalton | Visit Aurora Barry Gore | Adams County Economic Development VICE CHAIR-PUBLIC ISSUES Nancy Jackson | Arapahoe County Board of Commissioners John Adams | Colorado Technical University Bob LeGare | Mayor, City of Aurora THE CHAMBER’S VICE CHAIR-MEMBER SERVICES Ron Weidman | City of Centennial MISSION Chad Nielsen | Wagner Equipment Col. Treavor Wentlandt | 460th Mission Support Group The mission of the Aurora Chamber of Commerce is to give a voice to the business community and serve as an advocate for its members, creating a DON’T FORGET: “Every employee of a Chamber member is a member of The Chamber” positive business Please route this issue to your sales reps, account managers, marketing directors, HR and PR departments. You environment that encourages their growth can also access each month’s newsletter online at our website, www.aurorachamber.org, so you can forward and long-term economic it to every employee in your company! vitality. 2 An Inside Look at Chamber Committees BUSINESS FOR THE ARTS Regional Improvement Authority (SARIA) The Arts Pack a Punch: $1.9 Billion in Master Plan, and a Economic Activity number of projects Tuesday, November 6, 2018 currently underway. Dave Chambers, City of Aurora Director of Public Works also spoke about The Aurora History Museum decorated with the annual Festival of Wreaths. infrastructure and prioritization of projects Annual Holiday Gathering at Aurora with the current funding issues. History Museum Council priority projects are also known as Tuesday, December 4, 2018 Public Works unfunded capital needs, which There’s something so delightful about music, exceeds $265 Million in projects. Most of these coffee, and treats first thing in the morning! The include the common themes of frustrating annual holiday gathering of the Business for the backups, improving multimodal access and Arts committee included all of those treats, as connectivity, and addressing gaps in the well as festive networking and the opportunity roadway network. To begin to address these to see the creative and diverse wreaths of the needs, Council has appropriated funding and annual Festival of Wreaths at the Aurora History Public Works staff is working to implement Museum. some of these improvements. There are currently 25 projects on the priority list including CBCA Program Director Meredith Badler The Rangeview High School Jazz Group, directed by James Laguana, entertained with a intersection, roadway and multi-modal improvements. Example roadway projects are The Arts have a huge impact on the economy, few tunes, including a lively and harmonious rendition of Carol of the Bells. the 6th Ave. widening from Airport Blvd. to and at the November meeting of Business for Tower Rd, and Jewell Ave. and Genova St. the Arts, Meredith Badler with the Colorado It was a lovely way to begin the holiday season. improvements. Business Committee for the Arts (CBCA) shared The South Aurora Regional Improvement statistics and stories about how big that impact TRANSPORTATION Authority (SARIA) was established to address really is. concerns about regional infrastructure needs in Based on data from nonprofit cultural southeast Aurora, and available funding. The organizations in the Scientific and Cultural RTD Update for the Eastern Metro Area Wednesday, November 7, 2018 SARIA Master Plan was adopted in June of 2018 Facilities District (SCFD), which comprises and includes nine projects. One project is Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Denver, At the November Transportation meeting, currently in design and other projects will initiate Douglas, and Jefferson counties, the 2017 $1.9 Regional Transportation District (RTD) General the design phase next year. Billion in economic activity includes: Manager and CEO Dave The City also partners with the Counties and • Economic Impact ($573 Million) – new money Genova shared updates on other adjacent cities to leverage funding for entering the economy fare changes, the Eagle P3 transportation, which is more important than • Jobs (11,820 jobs, $183.4 Million payroll) – full Project, The R, G, and A ever, with the defeat on November 6, 2018 of time and contract employment in the arts Lines, the 15L Route Proposition 110 which would have increased • Giving ($182.6 Million) – donations and grants Improvements, and Colfax sales tax to fund transportation projects. from foundations, corporations, and Corridor Connections. individuals, as well as in-kind goods and He also talked about the GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS, services. priorities of the RTD Board, RTD General EDUCATION, AND ENERGY • Attendance (15 Million) – both paid and free Manager and CEO which include enhancing participation at arts venues, events, and Dave Genova safety and security, November 6 Election Results performances addressing service and • Education (4.3 Million school children and human capital, ensuring fiscal sustainability, Thursday, November 8, 2018 683,545 adult and youth class enrollment) – addressing future transportation needs and The government affairs committee postponed arts integration in classrooms, field trips, and methods, and ensuring asset management and a their November 1 meeting to November 8, in lifelong learning opportunities in the arts. state of good repair. order to have a discussion about the November RTD covers a lot of ground – 2,340 square 6 election. Although no legislators were present, The SCFD is a special tax district that funds miles, supports 14,000 full-time employees, and Commissioner Nancy Jackson provided a quick arts, cultural, and scientific organizations every $1 invested in transit infrastructure update about her re-election and about through a 0.01 percent sales and use tax that translates into $4 injected into the local Arapahoe County. Transportation bills were was originally approved by voters of the economy. For more information about RTD go discussed at-length, as both Proposition 109 and participating counties in 1989. to their website at www.rtd-denver.com. 110 were defeated; however, Michael Steppat and The impact and activities of the Arts is Micki Hackenberger, with Axiom Politics, actually larger than just this report, as the City of Aurora Infrastructure presented an Issue Brief for Senate Bill 18-001, CBCA’s report doesn’t include activity generated and Transportation concerning Transportation Infrastructure Funding. SB 18-001 includes additional by non SCFD funded nonprofits, creative Wednesday, December 6, 2018 businesses, higher education, or individual provisions based on the outcomes of artists. Cindy Colip, Interim Deputy Director of Public Propositions 109 and 110, and, potentially, a The CBCA is a 501 (c)(3) that advances Works – Engineering, with the City of Aurora, referred 2019 ballot measure. Colorado’s creative economy by connecting presented about transportation projects in the Michael Steppat announced that he is leaving business and the arts through advocacy, City at the December 2018 meeting of the Axiom Politics to be the Manager of Government research, training, volunteerism and arts Transportation committee. She discussed & Public Affairs at the Public Employees engagement. Council priority projects, the South Aurora Retirement Association (PERA). The committee [continued on page 4] 3 COMMITTEES (con’t) was introduced to Meg Dubray, who has joined communications networks and related services Around the World Food Festival and Celebrating Axiom to replace Steppat. to businesses, including schools, governments, Women in Leadership. carriers, data centers, hospitals and enterprise Tapy explained their CareerWise Expected Bills for the business customers throughout the United Apprenticeship Program, and how they have 2019 Legislative Session States. made their model work, helping to bring in Thursday, December 6, 2018 more diverse talent. Pinnacol does offer DIVERSITY AND credentials and benefits for their apprentices It was a lively discussion at the December and have retained 19 of 23 apprentices including 2018 Government Affairs INCLUSION COUNCIL one full time hire. meeting, in anticipation of How Diversity and Inclusion the upcoming Legislative Works for Pinnacol Assurance WOMEN IN BUSINESS Session. Friday, November 9, 2018 Meg Dubray, with Axiom The Diversity and It’s True: No Two Women are Alike Politics, The Chamber’s Inclusion Council Tuesday, October 23, 2018 lobbying firm, gave a broad hosted their Council overview of expected bills, In honor of Breast Cancer Sponsor, Pinnacol Awareness month, the Axiom Politics including HB 1001 (Family Assurance, for the Government Affairs Medical Leave Program), HB Women in Business November 2018 committee hosted Lora and Public 18-1298 (CO Secure Savings presentation. Lauren Relations Specialist Barke, DO, with Invision Plan), HB 18-1269 Masters, HR Meg Dubray (Prescription Drug Price Sally Jobe, to discuss the business partner, medical advances of Transparency), and a School Finance Rewrite. It and Mark Tapy, is also anticipated that SB1 will be opened for imaging and the apprentice program importance of preventative Transportation funding. In addition, there will manager, talked Invision Sally Jobe probably be bills regarding minimum wage, Pinnacol Assurance HR health over forced, reactive Medical Director Business Partner Lauren about how they treatments. equal pay for equal work, employee leave to make diversity work and Lead Masters The tragedy is not finding Interpreting participate in elections, a Colorado women’s for Pinnacol, Veterans act, marijuana accessory cancer, the tragedy is when Physician Lora including how to make a generational workforce it is found too late. One in Barke, DO consumptions establishments, and open work well together. internet customer protections in Colorado. every eight women will get Masters talked about their Diversity Taskforce, breast cancer, and there are an astonishing During the meeting, there was also a brief comprised of Pinnacol employees who are presentation about Unite Private Network 40,610 deaths per year because of it. Colorado passionate about promoting education around is nationally ranked lower for breast cancer, but (UPN), by Jeanette Neubeiser and Cliff McDow. diversity and supporting inclusion. The Task UPN provides high-bandwidth, fiber-based Arapahoe County is ranked higher compared to Force has created events, such as The Annual other regions. It’s important to get screened [continued on page 5]

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION COUNCIL Third Annual Diversity and Inclusion Resource Summit Wednesday, October 24, 2018 On October 24, 2018, The Chamber presented the third annual Diversity and Inclusion Resource Summit. With collaborative insight from the executive committee and council members, this year the Summit incorporated two professional development workshops: “Inclusive Recruiting, Leadership Behaviors and Systems if Inclusion” presented by Kristine Left to right, accepting the Diversity and Inclusion Award: APDC Board Chair Gigi De Gala; staff Feuerborn, UCHealth; and “Why, What and members Naureen Singh and Giselle Cummings; Executive Director Harry Budisidharta; Board Emeritus Rudy Lie; and staff member Tsukky Nguyen. How of Diversity and Inclusion Measurement, and How Are You Tracking Your Company (APDC), and accepted by Executive Director Thank you again to all of the sponsors and Goals?” presented by Natalie Landau and Rene Harry Budisidharta and his team. donors. Title Sponsor: UCHealth; Corporate Gallegos, The HR Shop. More than 50 people With a theme focused on “Moving Beyond Sponsors: Children’s Hospital Colorado, attended the workshops and survey results Diversity,” the keynote was presented by Lloyd Colorado Technical University, Wells Fargo; showed that attendees found the information Lewis, president and CEO of ARC Thrift Stores, Community Sponsors: Aurora Mental Health who spoke about the importance of inclusive Center, ConocoPhillips, FirstBank, Westerra extremely valuable. recruiting and how ARC has helped to change Credit Union, Citywide Banks; Food and With the Council moving into its fourth year, the lives of people with intellectual and Beverage Sponsors: Konjo Catering, Legends the executive committee decided to recognize developmental disabilities. of Aurora Sports Grill, Dae Gee, DP’s Rubs & a business in the community that is dedicated During the course of the resource fair, Stuff, Dry Dock Brewing Co., Ayu G-Michael to diversity and inclusion excellence. As a result vendors had the opportunity to share Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony, Star of India, of this decision, this year’s Summit also information about resources/services they offer Axiom Politics; Gift Bag Sponsor: Arc Thrift included presentation of the first Diversity and to businesses and consumers. This year’s Stores.. n Inclusion Champion Award. The award was Summit included 28 business vendors, six food given to the Asian Pacific Development Center vendors, and more than 200 attendees.

4 COMMITTEES (con’t)

every year starting at or before 40 years old. skills required for that job. More than 120 people attended the annual Invision Sally Jobe is a partner imaging facility He also reminded attendees to not look for Joint Aurora Defense Council (ADC) and with HealthONE. perfection, because, he said, “you will never find Colorado Springs Military Affairs Council (MAC) it;” and to make sure that you don’t have meeting. The forum included presentations by How to Break the Rules and Sell More premature biases of the candidates. the respective Chairs of each organization, Ron Tuesday, November 13, 2018 Cole (ADC) and Bob Lally (MAC), along with a discussion about ongoing opportunities to President of Worthman Consulting, Philip WORK WELL 2.0 partner on military issues impacting Colorado. Worthman began his HEALTH SERIES Attendees also received an update on the 2018 presentation to the Women in The Opioid Crisis – What can be Done? report on the Military Value and Economic Impact Business committee by saying of Department of Defense and VA Activities in that “the key to successful Thursday, November 8, 2018 Colorado. There were also updates from selling is understanding what congressional representatives and presentations makes people buy, regardless from the Steven A. Cohen Military Family Clinic at of industry or whether you the University of Colorado and the Sturm are selling products or Specialty in Military Psychology at the University services.” of Denver. The meeting was hosted by the Castle President of Worthman utilizes the Rock Library and breakfast was sponsored by the Worthman Sandler Selling System, which Marriott Denver South at Park Meadows. Consulting, Philip focuses on the psychology of Worthman human behavior, and the action of the sales representative spending more time At the November 2018 Health Series meeting, understanding what the client needs and asking Robert Valuck, PhD, Clinical Professor in the the right questions, rather than just providing Department of Clinical Pharmacy at the answers to close the deal. University of Colorado, gave a realistic view of the He also expressed the importance of being scope of the Opioid Crisis. He also discussed able to distinguish which clients can say ‘yes’ to a factors contributing to the growth of misuse and sale, and being aware of clues to make the abuse, and talked about state and federal difficult decision to walk away from a sale. responses to the crisis, and how employers can make an impact. WIB Celebrate the Season Dr. Valuck stated that “this problem knows no Members of The Chamber’s Defense Council and the at Painting with a Twist regional, gender, age, income, or other bounds: it Colorado Military Affairs Council network before the is truly and epidemic.” In 2017, nearly 72,000 meeting. Tuesday, December 4, 2018 people died from drug overdoses, and opioids were involved in 75 percent of those 460th Space Wing Overview deaths. Thursday, November 15, 2018 Additional experts in the field, Steven November’s Defense Council was hosted by Martinez, MA, Tri-County Health the 460th Space Wing, Buckley AFB. Brigadier Department Substance Abuse General (select) Troy Endicott, 460 Space Wing Prevention Coordinator, and Jane Ingalls, Commander and Buckley AFB Installation president of Face it Together, were in Commander provided an overview of the wing’s attendance. Face it Together is a mission to “deliver global infrared surveillance, nonprofit organization that provides tracking and missile warning for theater and effective, science-based peer coaching homeland defense and to provide combatant for people living with addiction, including commanders with expeditionary warrior Airmen.” loved ones of those with the disease. Brigadier General (select) Endicott also talked A WIB festive ornament painting event at Painting with a Twist. If you are interested in a copy of Dr. about the 95 tenant units supported by the Valuck’s presentation for more details 460th, specifically highlighting the major partners The Women in Business committee met in about the Opioid crisis, contact on base – 140th Wing, Aerospace Data Facility early December at Chamber member Painting [email protected]. with a Twist, to celebrate the holiday season by Colorado, Headquarters Air Reserve Personnel painting holiday ornaments and enjoying each DEFENSE COUNCIL Center, Navy Operational Support Center, and the other’s company. Army Aviation Support Facility. In addition, Defense Council members had the opportunity to Joint Meeting with Colorado Springs YOUNG PROFESSIONALS take a tour inside the restricted area where they Military Affairs Council visited a Radome (the ‘golf balls’) and the mission Workforce Development Thursday, October 25. 2018 control center. n & Hiring Implications Wednesday, November 14, 2018 At the November 2018 YP meeting, Trevor Pruitt with Skillful Colorado, an initiative of the Markle Foundation, discussed creating a labor market based on skills. He suggested changing the hiring process, by building jobs based on the tasks Skillful Associate required, and translating Trevor Pruitt candidates’ experience into Ron Cole, Chair of the Aurora Chamber’s Defense Council addresses members at the joint meeting. 5 RibbonCuttings Ribbon cuttings mean business: 70 jobs

Residence Inn by Marriott Denver Airport/Convention Center 6762 Tower Road, Denver, CO 80249

The Residence Inn by Marriott Denver Airport/Convention Center held a ribbon cutting for their grand opening – as well as a Las Vegas-style Casino Night Business After Hours for Chamber members on November 15, 2018. Cutting the ribbon are (L) Luis Rosales with Security Service Federal Credit Union, and Nick Naik, president, Baywood Hotels San Antonio Region. They are surrounded by hotel staff and some of the guests attending the festivities. This new Residence Inn is an all- suite, pet-friendly hotel with meeting and social gathering spaces, high speed Wi-Fi, and evening socials with appetizers and beer/wine. Each suite has a full kitchen and a 50” TV. (11/15/18) www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/denra- residence-inn-denver-airport-convention-center/ (303) 307-9100.

Shipley Do-Nuts 5400 S. Parker Rd., Aurora, CO 80015

For the ribbon cutting of the first Shipley Do-Nuts in Colorado on Friday, November 30, it was a large crowd of Chamber members and police officers cheering on owners Bryan and Julie Kopp. Highlights throughout the two-day grand opening of the Shipley Do-Nuts in Aurora included Glaze the mascot, a prize wheel, police vehicles and K-9 demonstrations – as well as plenty of coffee, donuts, and Kolaches. Members of The Aurora Police Foundation also helped sell and serve from behind the counter, with proceeds going to the foundation. Shipley’s offers 50 types of donuts, as well as a variety of savory Kolaches. (10/30/18-11/1/18) www.shipleydonuts.com/shipley-do-nuts-colorado/ (303) 638-9493.

Hobby Quest of Cherry Creek / Aurora / Brighton, LLC Hobby Quest is now in Colorado! Vadim Epelbaum, president of Hobby Quest of Cherry Creek / Aurora / Brighton, LLC cuts the ribbon for the business, joined by Chamber Ambassadors and staff. Hobby Quest is a Science, Technology, Arts, and Math (STEAM) enrichment program that inspires children to have a hobby. Instructors come to those as young as four and up to 8th grade, at either after-school programs, child care centers, parties, or events, bringing hands-on aviation, magic, and fashion design curriculum. (11/8/18) www.hobbyquest.com/ccabcolorado/ (720) 819-7580.

[continued on page 7] MemberContribution

Here are 5 Really Good Reasons to Offer Healthier fourths of consumers are trying to eat healthier and Rock That Resolution Food & Beverage Options at Your Workplace two-thirds are eating specific foods to lose weight. Setting a resolution to eat more 1) Ensuring access to healthier options helps to 5) The Chamber partners with Tri-County Health nutritious food and cutting down on create more supportive food environments for your Department to offer support for creating healthier sugary beverages is easy enough - but employees, clients, and others accessing your workplace environments. The program, Work Well 2.0 if your environment is sabotaging your business’ services. Health Series, is free and includes resources and efforts, it can be tough to succeed! 2) Support employees’ ability to eat well and live a funding opportunities for employers and employees. Many workplaces, state and local healthy lifestyle - because healthy employees are To get connected contact governments, hospitals, and other happy employees. [email protected] organizations are moving toward 3) Support the health of your community. Obesity ...... offering healthier options through their and poor nutrition are contributing to high rates of Kathy Staats, MPH, is a Prevention and vending machines, meetings, cafeterias, heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic diseases, Policy Specialist with the Community concession stands, conferences, and which diminish Americans’ quality of life. Health Promotion Division of Tri-County other events. 4) The majority of people want healthier options. A Health Department. (Content adapted Snack Food Association survey revealed that three- from the Healthy Beverage and Food Policy Practice Tool Kit)

6 MemberNews the arts. Serving both high school students and Superintendent of the Year adults, PTC emphasizes relevant technical by the Colorado Association education that provides employment of School Executives. opportunities upon graduation. "This award is a testament PTC has an academic relationship with the to the incredible work of our Community College of Aurora (CCA), which students, staff members, allows students to begin credits for an Associate families and community," of Applied Science degree at PTC, and then said Superintendent Munn. seamlessly transfer to complete their degree at "Aurora Public Schools is a CCA. Rico Munn truly unique and dynamic Pickens Technical College Named PTC operates under the governance of the school district, where I am Best Community College in Colorado Aurora Public Schools Board of Education, and is honored to serve as superintendent every day. I Pickens Technical College (PTC) has been accredited by the Council on Occupational share this honor with the entire APS family that named the Best Community College in Colorado Education. works relentlessly for student success." for the second year in a row by APS has celebrated some other big BestColleges.com. Rico Munn named 2019 Colorado milestones recently, including increasing With a graduation rate of nearly 80 percent, Superintended of the year graduation rates by more than 15 percent and PTC offers more than 50 professional Aurora Public Schools’ Superintendent Rico cutting dropout rates in half, as well as certification programs in diverse fields including Munn has been named the 2019 Colorado continuing to see improvements in student landscaping, transportation, human services and growth and achievement. n MemberContribution CCA Addresses Educational Needs for Jobs in Logistics and Supply Chain Supply chain skills are a lynch pin to most of • keep track of inventory, are offered in Procurement, Warehouse our local Aurora businesses, so the Community • know the logistics and tracking of on-time Operations, or Inventory Management. Classes College of Aurora is launching a national delivery start on January 22, 2019 and will be wrapped industry certificate program in Logistics and • do great project management up by August 8, 2019. The cost of the program Supply Chain in January 2019. • manage distribution schedules is $3,000, but financial aid and scholarships are The number of jobs to be filled in this career • use demand planning available. field exceeds people available. Hospitals, Learn more at www.ccaurora.edu/programs- manufacturers, warehouse & distribution firms These newly-launched evening programs are classes/departments/business/logistics; or (or any commerce-minded employer) really SCPro certified and college credit bearing. contact Heather Dent, (303) 340- need people who: They are quick paced, field-centered and 7232/[email protected] for more • know how to negotiate and buy smart, completed in only two semesters. Certificates information. n

RIBBON CUTTINGS (con’t)

Aurora Community Connection Family Resource Center 9801 E. Colfax Ave., Suite 200, Aurora, CO 80010 Aurora Interfaith Community Services 1553 Clinton St., Aurora, CO 80010 Smiles all around at the grand opening and ribbon cutting of the Aurora Community Connection (ACC) Family Resource Center on October 4, 2018. The event celebrated the The grand reopening after the remodeling of the Aurora Interfaith partnership between the ACC Family Resource Center and the Colorado Alliance for Health Community Services (AICS) building was a full-day event including Equity and Practice (CAHEP) that fully integrates medical and behavioral health care into the breakfast, tours, a ribbon cutting, and lunch. For the ribbon cutting ACC Family Resource Center. The vision for this partnership — that was five years in the ceremony, AICS Board Members Pat Torness-Smith (left) and Larry making — is to provide the lowest possible costs for people looking for affordable health Carrington share the scissors, as Aurora Mayor Bob LeGare (left of Torness- care/services. Left to right holding the scissors are Judith Padilla and Fabiola Sifontes, both Smith) and Executive Director of AICS Judith Barrow (right of Carrington) community advisory board members; Alok Sarwal, PhD, MBA, Executive Director of CAHEP; catch the ribbon after the cut. Funding for the renovation was made Robin Waterman, MD, Executive Director of ACC; and Hector Frisbie, MD, Medical Director of possible through Community Development Block Grants from the City of the ACC Clinic. (10/4/18) www.auroracommunityconnection.com/acc/ 720) 975-0147. Aurora and Arapahoe County. Aurora Interfaith Community Services is a non-profit agency providing emergency assistance to residents of Aurora, and is part of the Colorado network of food banks. (11/25/18) http://www.aurorainterfaithcommunityservices.org/ (303) 360-0260.

7 Leadership Aurora takes on the City of Aurora

The November session of For the day’s finale, the class traveled to Leadership Aurora was all the site of the Central Recreation Center at about Aurora, with the class 18150 E. Vassar Pl., which is under beginning the day at the construction. The state-of-the-art, 55,000 Aurora Municipal Center sq. ft. center includes an aquatics area, with Aurora City Manager gymnasium, an elevated walking/jogging Jim Twombly talking about track and fitness area, a teaching kitchen, meeting the needs of a party rooms, multi-purpose rooms, group growing city. Aurora Mayor exercise rooms, lockers, and offices. Bob LeGare followed with Construction is expected to be an overview of how a City completed Spring 2019. n Council meeting works. The class then split into four groups and emulated a City Council meeting, The Leadership Aurora class of complete with Mayor and 2018-2019 after a mock City City Council, and Council meeting in Council Chambers at the Aurora advocates and citizens for Municipal Center. and against the cause. The class then moved to the Aurora History Museum and toured the museum after an introduction by Museum Director Scott Williams. There were also presentations by Chuck Hahn with the Aurora-South Metro Small Business Development Center and Chamber President and CEO Kevin Hougen. Hard hats were required for the tour of the Central Recreation Center being built at 18150 E. Vassar Pl., in Aurora. MemberRenewals Adams County Workforce & Business Center Landmark Packaging, Inc. Alice Lee Main - Arts Advocate/Consultant Landtech Contractors Inc. Allegra Marketing/Print/Mail Lightshade Alpine Carstar Auto Body M. Mullis Collectibles- Jerri Grable Mullis American Portfolios May Farms NewMembers American Sentinel University Mike Weissman Representative HD 36 Arapahoe County Sheriff's Office Minor & Brown PC 3 Day Blinds - Shelby Capps Arapahoe/Douglas Works! Workforce Center Music Go Round 5Star Bank Ark & Oak, LLC National Technology Transfer Inc. - NTT Training Allied Mountain, LLC Armitage Bickford Creer, LLC Nilar Inc. Aurora Police Association Aurora Family Y.M.C.A. Northrop Grumman Best Western Plus DIA Inn & Suites Aurora Federal Credit Union Peregrine Senior Living at Aurora BYE Aerospace Aurora Gateway Rotary Club PhRMA Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Autawash of Colorado - Havana Polly Page Colorado State Bank & Trust - Alameda BAR-K Insurance Solutions, Inc. Quality First Plumbing & Heating Dope Mom Life Creative Content Agency Best Western Plus Gateway Inn & Suites Residence Inn - Denver Airport Edward Jones - Jason Casteneda Children's Hospital Colorado Residence Inn Denver Stapleton J Dog Junk Removal & Hauling Cindy Kreutz Rocky Mountain Law Group, LLC Jill Ho Health & Life Coach Colorado Access Ron Cole JS-Connex! Colorado Escrow & Title Roof Brokers, Inc. Madison Commercial - Jessica Smith Colorado Fabrics Ryden & Associates New York Life Community Housing Partners Special Olympics Colorado Northstar Commercial Partners Denver Botanic Gardens Susann Way PC MAXXX ITE Solutions, LLC Eagle Bend Metropolitan District #2 Tony's Service Inc. Prestige Worldwide Transportation LLC EIS Solutions, Inc. UCHealth ER- Commerce City Schomp Subaru George ''Mel'' Rawles UCHealth ER- Green Valley Medical Center Sewald Hanfling Public Affairs Hampton Inn - DIA University of Denver, GSPP Staples Business Advantage Highpoint Church USO Denver Symbia Logistics Infiniti of Denver Vintage Theatre Vitality Care, LLC Insula Design Studio, PC Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum Wingate by Wyndham at Denver Airport

The IMPACT is published for the members of the Aurora Chamber of Commerce. Subscription rate to nonmembers: $50|year. 14305 E. Alameda Ave Ste. #300 Advertisers: The Chamber members—use the IMPACT to advertise your products and services to over 1700 Aurora Chamber members. Aurora, CO 80012 Advertising space only available to members. The IMPACT also accepts preprinted inserts. Contact The Chamber for details. 303-344-1500 • Fax 303-344-1564 Deadlines: the 10th of the month prior to publication. website: www.aurorachamber.org

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