Colorado Immigration Reform Coalition Responds to the RAISE Act and Calls for Modernized System That Harnesses the Power of Immigrants

James Scimecca, [email protected]
Jesse Dougherty, [email protected]
 

Colorado Immigration Reform Coalition Responds to the RAISE Act and Calls for Modernized System That Harnesses the Power of Immigrants

Coalition members cite immigrant contributions and call for a different approach that empowers foreign-born workers instead of limiting them

Denver, Colorado — Today, the Colorado Immigration Reform Coalition responded to the RAISE Act, new legislation sponsored by Senators Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) and David Perdue (R-Ga.), and called for a revised solution that harnesses the economic power of foreign-born workers in the U.S. economy. The proposed bill was endorsed this week by President Trump, and called for a substantial limit to legal immigration.

While the coalition agrees on the need to modernize our broken immigration system with merit-based solutions, the bill contains a broad misconception that immigrants are hindering the wages of American workers. In fact, research has shown time and time again that foreign-born workers often act as key drivers of innovation and job creation, and do their part in filling the workforce gaps that the American economy faces with its ongoing aging crisis. Instead, the coalition is urging Congress to take an approach that harnesses the power of immigrants to create a streamlined process that attracts the best talent, builds the workforce needed to support America’s industries, and ultimately lays the groundwork for greater economic growth. 

“Broadly closing our doors to immigrants does not help any of the challenges we face in today’s world economy.  Since its founding, the United States has been a land of opportunity and inclusive of immigrants, their families and entrepreneurs creating the greatest economy that it is today.” said Clarence Low, president and CEO of the Asian Chamber of Commerce of Colorado. “We need to work together to improve our immigration system but do so in a way that doesn’t limit a large section of our economic contributors.  They have been integral to our country’s success and will be so once again in our future.” 

Jeff Wasden, President of the Colorado Business Roundtable and Coalition Member added: “Creating an economy that strengthens the wages of American workers should always be a central priority of Congress. But it would be a mistake to associate declining wage growth with immigrant contributions. Foreign-born workers are influencing the economy in the opposite direction – they are bringing in innovation that creates new businesses and opportunities that directly benefit American citizens. Their successes and entrepreneurial spirit should undoubtedly be part of the system’s solution. We need to work together to update our outdated immigration system.” 

The state coalition is sponsored by New American Economy (NAE), a bipartisan organization that supports immigration reforms that help both American workers and immigrants build a better economy. The coalition utilizes local leadership roles and NAE’s detailed research on immigrants to create a constructive platform to discuss immigration reform with Congress.

Jeff Wasden, President of the Colorado Business Roundtable and Coalition Member added: “Creating an economy that strengthens the wages of American workers should always be a central priority of Congress. But it would be a mistake to associate declining wage growth with immigrant contributions. Foreign-born workers are influencing the economy in the opposite direction – they are bringing in innovation that creates new businesses and opportunities that directly benefit Americancitizens. Their successes and entrepreneurial spirit should undoubtedly be part of the system’s solution. We need to work together to update our outdated immigration system.” 

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About New American Economy

New American Economy (NAE) brings together more than 500 Republican, Democratic and Independent mayors and business leaders who support immigration reforms that will help create jobs for Americans today. Coalition members include mayors of more than 35 million people nationwide and business leaders of companies that generate more than $1.5 trillion and employ more than 4 million people across all sectors of the economy, from Agriculture to Aerospace, Hospitality to High Tech and Media to Manufacturing. Learn more at www.NewAmericanEconomy.org.

Innovation + H2O = Colorado's Future

Go ahead, share this with a fellow trailblazer. June 22, 2017 innovation + H2O = colorado's future _______________________________________________________ To address Colorado’s most challenging water issues, three inspiring Colorado organizations are connecting community leaders, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals in new, innovative ways. From reverse pitch events to Google-inspired entrepreneur “sprints,” TAP-IN, 10.10.10 and Innovation Incubator (IN²) are developing breakthrough solutions and starting new ventures utilizing Colorado’s innovation ecosystem. Although Colorado has always been at the forefront of water innovation, having been named one of the first water innovation clusters by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), these organizations are focusing on identifying core water challenges before investing in technology options. With mounting pressures from climate change, pollution, population growth, and aging water infrastructure, Colorado’s water challenges are now bigger, more complex and too daunting for government to address alone. By engaging serial entrepreneurs and focusing on the problems, these organizations hope to build a thriving water innovation ecosystem in Colorado. it's time to "tap in" The mission of TAP-IN is to create a platform for Coloradans to “tap in” to the creative current that flows throughout our state to solve our greatest water challenges. TAP-IN starts with real-world problems and calls upon our diverse innovation community to collaborate and partner to solve them. TAP-IN aims to support a high-impact water and innovation ecosystem in Colorado that results in action and solutions. Entrepreneurs are accustomed to pitching ideas to potential investors, businesses, and customers. With TAP-IN, the tables are turned! End users from the water community pitch their specific challenges to entrepreneurs, equipping them with valuable insight into real needs while revealing potential new markets. TAP-IN is a reverse pitch innovation challenge that aims to identify the precise problems the water community faces and to engage the entrepreneurial community to come up with innovative solutions. The goal is to build connections across communities to unleash the power of Colorado collaboration. The next TAP-IN innovation challenge, Cultivate & Produce, will call upon end users working in agriculture, food, brew, and beverage to pitch their specific problems to the entrepreneurial, innovation, and business communities. Then, end users and attendees will discuss the problems, gather information that can power solutions, and build connections to innovate together. addressing the wicked problems In October, 10.10.10 will bring together prospective CEOs, successful serial entrepreneurs, subject matter experts, and city officials to address 10 “wicked” problems in water & infrastructure over 10 days (a “sprint”) with the goal of creating breakthrough innovation and market-based solutions that can change the world. “Wicked” problems were first outlined by two Berkeley professors in 1973. They stem from numerous causes, spread in every direction and tend to become entangled with other wicked problems. Conventional approaches to addressing them usually don’t work. They can be a societal scourge, such as poverty, or a seemingly more specific problem, like Alzheimer’s disease. Because wicked problems present tremendous business opportunities, 10.10.10 realized they could engage entrepreneurs, investors, and the market itself to confront them. But this can only be done with the right combination of entrepreneurial energy and insight. 10.10.10 harnesses this power and points it in the right direction. 10.10.10 is currently recruiting participants for the October event. incubating scalable solutions IN² is a technology incubator that fosters and accelerates early state technology companies that provide scalable solutions to reduce the energy impact of commercial buildings. IN² is creating an ecosystem for early-stage technology stakeholders and innovators — including national labs, universities, and regional accelerator programs — to develop strong relationships that provide mentorship, funding, and technical assistance to the most promising commercial building entrepreneurs. IN² is a five-year, $10 million program designed to facilitate early-stage technologies, funded by the Wells Fargo Foundation and co-administered by NREL. Over the course of six to 18 months, participating companies have access to NREL’s world-class facilities and researchers who will test, validate, and incubate the companies’ technologies to help them meet critical validation milestones on their path to the commercial marketplace. The technology company APANA was recently chosen for the IN² program. The APANA System offers an innovative smart water management system to reduce water waste. Their cloud-based analytic technology scans, pinpoints, and guides resolution of water waste by instantly alerting frontline staff and providing actionable guidance. APANA uses sensors and IoT devices to capture high-resolution data for constant analysis of when water waste is occurring. The IN² program is providing research assistance, test sites, and marketing exposure to further expand APANA’s growth. water innovation around the world As Colorado addresses some of our most challenging water issues, innovators around the world are working with governments to address water pollution, port management and sustainability, desalination, and energy generation. Watch how Israel’s Water Sensitivity Center is using innovation to capture and clean polluted groundwater before returning it to the aquifer, and how England uses floating solar panels to generate electricity for its water treatment plants. View this email in your browser You are receiving this email because of your relationship with Colorado Innovation Network. Please reconfirm your interest in receiving emails from us. If you do not wish to receive any more emails, you can unsubscribe here. 1625 Broadway St., Ste. 2700, Denver, CO, 80218 Unsubscribe

Business Roundtable Member Briefing and Reception

Colorado Business Roundtable would like to thank Bill Miller of the D.C. Business Roundtable (BRT) for presenting at the BRT Briefing and Reception event. We would also like to thank all of those that attended this event. We hope you enjoyed yourself and learned a little bit about the issues going on at D.C.

In attendance were some great BRT and COBRT partner companies: IBM, Anadarko, Walgreens, Ball Corp, Aetna, Deloitte, BNSF Railway, and others.

The Reception was attended by Sec. of State Wayne Williams, Canadian Consul General Stephane Lessard, Rep. Paul Lundeen, Rep Lawrence, representatives from Mexican Consulate, Congressman Coffman, Jim Ogsbury with Western Governors and more.

As key takeaway points, we saw the importance of timely, relevant business updates on tax reform, regulatory reform, health care bill, infrastructure improvements, and ATC privatization. In addition, with change in leadership at the BRT, it was a great chance to hear firsthand about the new leadership and focus for BRT moving forward.

 

Bio for Bill Miller

Bill Miller is a Senior Vice President at Business Roundtable and oversees all outreach to Capitol Hill and the Administration on behalf of the association of chief executive officers of leading U.S. corporations.

Miller brings more than two decades of experience on Capitol Hill and representing business interests in Washington, and joins the Roundtable most recently from international corporate communications firm Brunswick.  While at Brunswick, Miller's focus included financial/investor communications, crisis work, stakeholder engagement, and global positioning on behalf a number of U.S. and international corporations. He also assisted several global investment firms on potential and actual crisis situations.

A veteran lobbyist, Miller previously led the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Political Affairs & Federal Relations efforts and served as National Political Director, advising the business association’s CEO and overseeing its legislative, advocacy and lobbying tactics. He coordinated and executed political and grassroots operations and implemented lobbying campaigns on many of the top issues facing the business community during his 12 years at the Chamber. He regularly appeared on CNN, CNBC, Bloomberg, FOX, ABC World News and PBS.

Miller also served as Chief of Staff to Representative Constance A. Morella where he oversaw her legislative and political agenda from 1994 to 1999.

A successful entrepreneur, Miller has started several businesses including a bank, restaurants, and a television pilot, and financed several technology start-ups. Miller holds a B.A. degree from the University of Maryland and a law degree from American University. He resides in Washington, D.C.

COBRT's Team Is Growing!

COBRT is excited to be welcoming two new members to the team:

Alex Hopkins

Radio and Social Outreach Specialist

Email Alex at [email protected]

Connect with Alex on LinkedIn

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Lisa Gregg

Member Outreach Executive

Email Lisa at [email protected]

Connect with Lisa on LinkedIn

Healthy Vision Month: Vision Health is Essential to Your Overall Health

Coloradans are notoriously active and healthy, known for eating well and exercising regularly. But are they just as diligent about their vision health? Statistics would indicate the answer is probably not, since eye care is often overlooked as an essential component of overall health. 

Fortunately, May is Healthy Vision Month and an ideal time to visit your eye care professional for that vision exam you may have been delaying or to update your current eyewear. Comprehensive eye exams ensure your eyes are healthy and free of serious eye diseases like glaucoma or macular degeneration, and guarantee you get the vision correction you need to see properly. In addition, eye exams can identify damaging chronic conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, early in the disease progression.

Unfortunately, cost often prevents many of us from seeing our eye care professionals. But it doesn’t have to be this way, which is why as Executive Director of the National Association of Vision Care Plans (NAVCP) I am committed to ensuring everyone in Colorado has access to affordable, quality vision care. 

According to a recent study commissioned by NAVCP, “Vision patients were most likely to cite cost as the number one barrier to care.” It’s no surprise, then, that enrollment in vision care plans has increased nearly 20 percent over the last five years. Or that 80 percent of all employers now provide managed vision care benefit options to their employees. Or that patients are four times more likely to seek professional eye care services from an eye care professional when offered vision benefits that cover an eye exam, as well as eyeglasses or contact lenses.

Increased managed vision care plan enrollment has led to lower costs for consumers, more patients for eye care professionals and healthier vision behavior. A win-win for patients, providers and employers. After all, healthy people are more productive both at work and at home.

We must maintain these positive, healthy vision behavior trends going forward. Unlike insurance for catastrophic health care and emergencies, vision care is predictable. At some point – right around age 40 or so – each of us will require vision correction, even if we are healthy in every other way. And let’s not forget the importance of proper vision to our children since 80 percent of childhood learning through age 12 is visual.

NAVCP is speaking up about the value of vision care benefits during Healthy Vision Month in part because a proposed bill recently introduced in the U.S. Congress, if passed, would put up barriers to vision care. Patients and employers would be denied the cost transparency they need to make informed buying decisions, which could cause them to pay more for glasses, contacts and optometric services. And the bill would remove the rights of individual eye care professionals to decide how and if they want to contract with managed vision care plans to best serve their patients. Considering the proven, positive connection between vision benefits and healthier vision behavior, that is the last thing that eye patients, eye care professionals and employers in Colorado and across the country need.   

I encourage you to celebrate Healthy Vision Month by ensuring you and your family have the vision care plan that best meets your needs, and to put that plan to use by visiting the eye care professional of your choice. I guarantee that you will see immediate benefits as a result. Now, see to it.

Julian Roberts is the Executive Director of the National Association of Vision Care Plans (NAVCP).

Strategic Partnership Alliance has been expanded to now include OPIC, EXIM bank and beyond.

CHAMBER OF THE AMERICAS (COTA)
"Committed to Economic Empowerment and Justice"                                                                         
For further details contact:
Gilberto (Gil) Cisneros, Chairman and CEO
Tel:  303.462.1275 [email protected]
www.chamberoftheamericas.com

Carlos Figueroa, CEO, Greater San Jose Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Tel: 408. 886-1145 [email protected]  
www.gsjhcc.org

 Denver CO – San Jose CA – BREAKING NEWS!

Chamber of the Americas Strategic Partnership Alliance with Carlos Figueroa, CEO of the Greater San Jose Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, as been expanded beyond OPIC to include, EXIM bank and other financial institutions and organizations that support development throughout the International Community.  

We are ready, positioned and prepared for emerging market transactions and look forward to your requests.

The door for business throughout the Americas and beyond is wide-open.

The Pathway to Economic Empowerment and Justice is to… build a Bridge of Hope!

Finding Colorado’s Next Governor

COBRT and the Denver Business Journal are teaming up to help introduce you, the community's leaders and constituents, to some of the 2018 gubernatorial candidates for the state of Colorado. 

This interview series will educate us all on the people and the ideas that may make up our state's next executive leadership. The series is also designed to foster conversation, so please feel free to contact COBRT and get involved in this exciting civic process.

What will you ask our next governor?

Contact COBRT to submit your questions or use #FindingCOGov on social media!

MAY 31
Doug Robinson
Republican

JUNE 30
Noel Ginsburg
Democrat

JULY 31
George Brauchler
Republican

AUG 31
Stephen Barlock
Republican

SEPT 29
Donna Lynne
Democrat

OCT 30
Matthew Wood
Unaffiliated

NOV 30
Vic Mitchell
Republican

DEC 29
Mike Johnston
Democrat

JAN 31
Cary Kennedy
Democrat

MAR 30
Walker Stapleton
Republican

APR 30
Greg Lopez
Republican

MAY 31
Jared Polis
Democrat

Governor's Award for Excellence in Exporting

Three Colorado Companies Win Prestigious Honor of Governor's Award for Excellence in Exporting

Denver - (May 15, 2017) - Colorado companies Meadowlark Optics, Project C.U.R.E. and VAIREX air systems were announced today as the three winners of the 2017 Governor's Award for Excellence in Exporting for their contributions to the Colorado economy through international trade.

"Meadowlark, Project C.U.R.E. and VAIREX are shining examples of how exporting can help expand businesses, increase profits, and grow Colorado's economy," said Governor John Hickenlooper. "From fuel cells to polarization products to medical supplies, exporting provides access to 95 percent of the world market outside our borders. We are honored to recognize these companies for their commitment and wish them continued success."

Meadowlark Optics (Frederick, Colo.) is an international thought leader in light-based technologies and has an extensive international portfolio, exporting to 30 countries. Meadowlark, established in 1979, supplies a variety of industries with innovative polarization solutions and engineering services. Meadowlark has been a valuable contributor to the infrastructure of the Colorado Photonics Industry (CPIA) since it initially launched in 1997, and has financially sponsored international scientific symposiums and performed worldwide speaking engagements to raise global awareness of the problem-solving solutions that light-based technologies can provide. Exports currently represent over 59 percent of Meadowlark's sales.

Project C.U.R.E. (Centennial, Colo.), the world's largest distributor of donated medical supplies and equipment, exports these products to hospitals and clinics in more than 133 countries around the globe. Project C.U.R.E. has been an industry leader in developing new ways to export medical supplies to resource-limited communities across the globe, including creating an efficient and accurate inventory system, improving supply chain management, and providing expert management of logistics. Exports currently represent over 96 percent of Project C.U.R.E.'s sales.

VAIREX air systems (Boulder, Colo.), an international technical leader in fuel cell air systems, manufactures advanced air blower systems based on the company's patented breakthrough technology. VAIREX is focused on blowers for fuel cells in the 1-30 kW power range, which represent over 90% of all the fuel cells sold in the world today. Currently, VAIREX exports to customers in 17 countries in the Americas, Europe and Asia and exports represent 56 percent of VAIREX's sales. The company is poised for the rapidly growing global fuel cell industry.

The Governor's Award for Excellence in Exporting was first given in 1970 and recognizes economic growth through international business. Winners will be formally recognized tomorrow at World Trade Day, the region's premier international trade event. This year's World Trade Day theme is Containers to the Cloud: Trade as Goods, Services & Knowledge.

Awardees will receive $500 worth of consulting services through the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade's (OEDIT) Global Consultant Network. The program connects qualifying Colorado companies to global opportunities and market education.

Colorado exported $7.5 billion in products in 2016, and an estimated $14 billion in services. The Excellence in Exporting Award recognizes this contribution to the state's economy by highlighting noteworthy accomplishments by Colorado exporters. More information about OEDIT's export grant programs can be found here.

Denver International Airport Hits Nineteen Consecutive Months of Record-Setting Passenger Traffic

DENVER – May 4, 2017 – Denver International Airport (DEN) had its busiest March in the airport’s history, with nearly 5.2 million passengers, the first March to ever surpass five million passengers. DEN has now seen nineteen consecutive months of record-setting passenger traffic.

A total of 5,193,855 passengers traveled through DEN in March 2017, an increase of more than 10 percent over the 4,689,761 passengers in March 2016. This total includes 240,473 international passengers increasing by 7.9 percent from March 2016.

“Not only was March the 19th consecutive month of record-setting passenger traffic at Denver International Airport, but we also saw the highest number of international passengers in a single month in the airport’s history,” airport CEO Kim Day said. “We look forward to continuing this momentum in international traffic growth as we welcome new carriers and add new destinations to our network later this year.”

March included new service from Denver to Belize on Southwest, and increased frequency by Lufthansa to Munich – flights now operate daily. Icelandair, Lufthansa, Southwest and Volaris all recorded double-digit increases in international passenger traffic during the month.

Mail, freight and express cargo operations increased 8.7 percent in March, with 51,268,202 pounds, compared to 47,182,914 pounds of cargo in March 2016. The complete March 2017 traffic report is available at: http://www.flydenver.com/about/financials/passenger_traffic

Press Release PDF

State Business Roundtable Executives Meet New BRT President

COBRT President Jeff Wasden was in Washington, DC last week with State Business Roundtable Executives (SBRE). Governor Engler, former President and CEO of the Business Roundtable retired recently so this was the first opportunity for the state roundtable executives to meet the new President and CEO, Joshua Bolten. President Bolten has extensive policy background and served as a former Chief of Staff under the Bush administration.

The conference started with a reception at Pepco Edison Place Gallery, followed by a sponsored dinner by the BRT. Goldman Sachs gave a fascinating presentation on the national political outlook, going so far as to have analyzed President Trump’s tweets and possible impact to business (FYI, Tuesday has the highest number of business tweets). Jones Day hosted the next day and shared their presentation on “U.S. Business Outlook in the New Administration: Navigating a Changing Landscape."

Matt Miller, Vice President of BRT, and Matt Sonnesyn, Vice President of BRT gave policy updates on tax reform and infrastructure. Within the Business Roundtable membership, there is a split on tax reform as large exporters such as Boeing and GE support exploring a Border Adjustment Tax while retailers within the Business Roundtable such as Walmart and Target are opposed. Traditional tax reform has always looked at lowering rates, broadening the base and removing deductions and there are some that would like to stick to the tried and true, tested formula. Parameters around pass through organizations, expensing, dividends, and rates will be the focus of much debate, as will any change toward a territorial system.

Business Roundtable supports infrastructure investment that supports and strengthens the user pay model, unlocks the full potential of private investment, invests for maximum impact, puts smart regulation to work, accelerates innovation and comes with a plan to maintain current system and improvements. Our infrastructure system incorporates not only our transportation system, but also airways, water and the electric grid. Policy work needs to be done around reforming permitting process and public private partnership legislation.

Colorado will be hosting the State Business Roundtable Executives in September this year as we continue to focus on our reach, impact, and relationships.

Mayor Hancock Leads Discussions on Denver’s International Trade Opportunities

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 5, 2016

Mayor Hancock Leads Discussions on Denver’s International Trade Opportunities

Denver – The City and County of Denver and the Colorado Business Roundtable (COBRT) are joining to present “The Importance of International Trade” on Tuesday, December 6, 2016 at Denver International Airport (DEN). This event features a discussion with Denver Mayor Michael B. Hancock, followed by an expert panel and updates about the airport.

The Importance of International Trade
Tuesday, December 6, 2016
1:00 PM MST
City Conference Room, Level 6, NW Side of Terminal
Denver International Airport

Panelists include Dan Haley from Colorado Oil & Gas Association (COGA), Chad Vorthmann from the Colorado Farm Bureau, Karen Gerwitz from World Trade Center Denver, Jeff Campos from Global Chamber and Stéphane Lessard, Canada's Consul General in Denver, among others.

There is no registration required, but you can join the Facebook event (http://bit.ly/2gJFv8r) to invite your friends and colleagues.

Because of generous partners, there is no charge for attendance. Thank you to the following event sponsors: World Trade Center Denver, Denver International Airport, Colorado Oil & Gas Association, Global Chamber, Chamber of the Americas, Farm Bureau Colorado, and CACI, The State Chamber of Commerce.

As a regional and national business center for both private and public organizations in the United States, Denver has become one of the most important communication, transportation and distribution hubs regionally, nationally and globally. Located midway between New York and Los Angeles, and between Europe and the Pacific Rim, Denver offers excellent access to the world. @MayorHancock

Denver International Airport is the nineteenth-busiest airport in the world and the sixth-busiest airport in the United States. With more than 54 million passengers traveling through the airport each year, DEN is one of the busiest airline hubs in the world’s largest aviation market. DEN is the primary economic engine for the state of Colorado, generating more than $26 billion for the region annually. @DENAirport

COBRT is an advocate for proactive, positive legislation that strengthens the economy and allows businesses to grow and thrive in Colorado and the region. Through strategic alliances with great groups of industry leaders, chambers of commerce, educational institutions and governmental bodies, our goal is to improve the business environment, increase effectiveness, and expand the networks of our partners. @ColoradoBRT

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Contact:
Tara Alexander, Public Relations
Colorado Business Roundtable
303-394-6210 (desk) 720-509-9432 (mobile)
[email protected]

Reason for Reform Campaign Makes Non-Partisan Case for Immigration Reform

Denver, CO -- Colorado Business Roundtable (COBRT) will host an event for the Reason for Reform campaign’s National Day of Action with Partnership for a New American Economy (PNAE). COBRT will be joined by U.S. Representative Jared Polis and other leaders in business, non-profits, academia and government. The event will be held at CAP Logistics on Wednesday, August 3, 2016 from 11 AM-12 PM at 4140 Jackson Street; Denver, CO 80216. Located near I-70 and Colorado Boulevard, there is plenty of parking, or take the A Line to the 40th & Colorado Station. Light refreshments will be served.

This day of action is led by a coalition of business and community leaders who together hold 50 events in all 50 states to highlight the need for immigration reform. Each event will feature the release of a new, state-specific research report with the latest data on the economic contributions of immigrants to each state. This data will be featured in an interactive map, showing the case for immigration reform with statistics and stories in every single congressional district. The report for Colorado is embargoed until Wednesday, August 3 at 6:00 AM Mountain Daylight Time. Please email [email protected] if you are a member of media and would like an advance copy.

Later in the day, tune in for a live broadcast with PNAE and COBRT President Jeff Wasden on COBRT’s Connect & Collaborate Radio. Listen at KDMT 1690 AM Denver's Money Talk from 4-5 PM or stream online at www.cobrt.com/live. The podcast will be available at www.cobrt.com/radio on August 4.

PNAE brings together more than 500 Republican, Democratic and Independent mayors and business leaders united in making the economic case for streamlining, modernizing and rationalizing our immigration system. Co-Chairs are Bill Marriott, CEO, Marriott; Bob Iger, CEO, Disney; Jim McNerney, Chair, Boeing; Julian Castro, Former Mayor of San Antonio; Michael Bloomberg, Former Mayor of New York City; Michael Nutter, Former Mayor of Philadelphia; Rupert Murdoch, Chair, News Corp and 21st Century Fox. @renewoureconomy

COBRT is an advocate for proactive, positive legislation that strengthens the economy and allows businesses to grow and thrive in Colorado and the region. Through strategic alliances with great groups of industry leaders, chambers of commerce, educational institutions and governmental bodies, our goal is to improve the business environment, increase effectiveness, and expand the networks of our partners. @ColoradoBRT

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Contact:
Tara Alexander, PR Coordinator
Colorado Business Roundtable
303-394-6210
[email protected]

Business Leaders Reaffirm Commitment to Sustainability

Top U.S. CEOs Detail Environmental, Sustainability Achievements

Washington — Business Roundtable today released Create, Grow, Sustain: People and Technology at Work — testimonials from America’s leading CEOs detailing how their companies promote effective environmental stewardship, sustainable business practices and economic growth.

The report and accompanying videos highlight how America’s largest companies are leveraging people and technology to improve the quality of life for people around the world.

“Across the board, Business Roundtable companies deliver extraordinary innovations that make life better,” said Nicholas K. Akins, Chairman, President and CEO of American Electric Power, and Chair of the Business Roundtable Energy and Environment Committee. “This report tells the stories of companies putting people and technology to work to solve problems and make a real difference in people’s lives.”

Now in its ninth year, the annual Business Roundtable sustainability report documents how U.S. companies are doing well by doing good — harnessing the power of people and technology to solve the world’s most pressing sustainability challenges. The 133 CEOs who participated this year share their stories about how their companies are creating solutions that improve the quality of life in communities around the world. Visit brt.org/sustainability to explore these remarkable achievements.

Earlier this year, Business Roundtable released a plan for stronger economic growth and job creation. For more information on our plan to create more momentum for America, see www.BRT.org/growth.

More Photos from Peter Yarrow's Recent Visit to Colorado

Last week, we reported on the Honorary Rotary Membership that folk music legend Peter Yarrow was awarded for his work in Colorado with Rotary's Peaceful Schools Program. Read more about that here. Yarrow then performed in Denver and Colorado Springs. Here are some photos from his show with Noel Paul Stookey at the Paramount Theatre on April 8, 2016. Photos by ICOSA Media.

Here are Peter Yarrow and friends with a specially-designed "Puff the Magic Dragon" guitar wrap produced by Denver-based Mammoth Graphix. He's with John Eckstein of Fairfield and Woods, P.C. and Kevin Hougen, President/CEO of Aurora Chamber of Commerce.

Join Us at 40th & Colorado Station Party for A Line Grand Opening

Join Us at 40th & Colorado Station Party for Grand Opening of University of Colorado A Line Commuter Rail on Saturday, April 23, 2016. Click here for an event flyer and come see us!

The offices of Colorado Business Roundtable, ICOSA Media and CAP Logistics happen to be just across the street from the 40th and Colorado station on the University of Colorado A Line, the new commuter rail linking downtown Denver's Union Station to Denver International Airport. We are joining with many community partners to celebrate this event with the neighborhood. Station parties last from 10:00 AM until 2:00 PM. Rides are free all day, so you can make several festive stops. To see the list of all stations and parties, click here or see the graphic below.

COBRT Presenting World’s Largest One-Day Leadership Conference to be Simulcast in Denver

Colorado Business Roundtable (COBRT) is presenting Leadercast Denver for the second year in a row, hosted by KNUS-KRKS-KDMT. Leadercast is the world’s largest one-day leadership conference, broadcast LIVE from Atlanta and simulcast to hundreds of locations around the world on May 6, 2016. This year marks the sixteenth year of the annual leadership conference and the fourth that KNUS-KRKS-KDMT has been a host. The speakers and messaging of Leadercast complement COBRT’s Connect and Collaborate radio show, which airs on KDMT 1690 AM, Denver’s Money Talk Radio, from 4-5 PM Mondays through Fridays.

The theme of this year’s Leadercast conference is “Architects of Tomorrow,” focusing on visionary leaders who imagine and build a future that is rich in innovation, collaboration and full of hope. It is a future where problems are solved, questions are answered, and confusion gives way to clarity.

The conference will equip attendees to create their own visionary path. Key speakers – visionaries in their own fields – will inspire the more than 300 people who attend locally, and the more than 100,000 people who will attend the event live in Atlanta or at hundreds of other simulcast locations in more than 20 countries. Among the keynote speakers are:  

o   Kat Cole—Group President, FOCUS Brands, Inc. (including Cinnabon®, Moe’s Southwest Grill®, Auntie Anne’s®, and more)

o   Steve Wozniak—Co-founder of Apple, Inc.,

o   Henry Cloud—Acclaimed Leadership Expert, Clinical Psychologist, and Best-Selling Author

o   Nick Saban—Head Football Coach, The University of Alabama

o   Andy Stanley—Leadership Author and Communicator

o   James Brown—Network Broadcaster, CBS Sports and News

o   Rorke Denver—Navy SEAL Commander and Author

o   Chris Barez-Brown—Author and Creativity Guru

o   Tripp Crosby—Host of Leadercast, Comedian and Director

For years, Leadercast has brought people together and equipped them to become better leaders, managers, community members, and employees. Here is what people have to say about Leadercast:

“With a constantly impressive lineup of speakers and the on-target themes year-over-year (and at such a value), I consider Leadercast a ‘can’t miss’ event,” Kalpana OOmmen, Vice President Talent Acquisition, Cox Enterprises & 9-year Leadercast attendee.

“The whole day was interesting from start to finish.  It was valuable to hear from leaders from various fields, as each had different perspectives and experiences.  I was able to learn from leaders whom I otherwise would not have known of because I was unfamiliar with their work,” Katie Booth, Mount Vernon Nazarene University.

“For me, it’s a re-charge.  For one day I can plug-in, focus on me - my impact, obstacles, and growth opportunities.  I love that it is not only a lecture but it’s an immersive experience that keeps me engaged…by a multi-sensory approach,” Patrick Williams, Marketing Director, SunTrust Bank.

This live Denver event will be at the Denver PPA Event Center on 2105 Decatur St. and includes lunch. Colorado Business Roundtable partners and members, please click here to register. For more information and to purchase your ticket or group tickets to the Leadercast Denver event, visit www.LeadercastDenver.com. 

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Folk Legend Peter Yarrow Awarded Honorary Rotary Membership for Peaceful Schools Program

PRESS RELEASE FROM: Denver Southeast Rotary Club

Legendary folk singer Peter Yarrow, of Peter, Paul & Mary, was inducted today to the Denver Southeast Rotary Club as an honorary member in acknowledgement of his partnership with the Club and Rotary District 5450 for The Peaceful Schools Program through Operation Respect.

The Peaceful Schools Program was developed in Denver in the fall of 2013, under the leadership of Rotarian Carole Baumbusch and piloted in 3 classrooms in the spring of 2014. Not only did the classroom teachers and students love the program, but they wanted it back the following fall, as did other teachers. It expanded to 6 schools and multiple classrooms in the 2014/2015 school year and it continues to grow.

“As of February 2016, we are in 15 elementary schools in the area and 50 classrooms teaching important social and emotional skills to more than 750 elementary school children and hundreds of high school students who are trained and delivering the program in these schools. We also have 15-20 additional Rotary clubs currently evaluating the program for implementation in their clubs and local schools in the fall of 2016,” said Baumbusch.

Peter Yarrow had been a champion of the program and instrumental in connecting Rotary to this important cause. Teaching young children to get along peacefully and respect one another is one of the most important lessons they need and perfectly aligns with Rotary’s service mission: to provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through its fellowship of business, professional, and community leaders.

Club President, Mick Richardson said: “We are exceedingly proud of this effort. Our club is active all over Denver, but this effort is one of our most successful. Peter Yarrow has been at our District Conference promoting involvement and thanks to his ambassadorship, we have built a great team. We are proud to have him as an honorary member.”

In the photos above, Peter receives his honorary Rotarian membership and treats the members to a performance. The students in the background are from Cherry Creek High School's Interact Club, a Rotary high school program. They are some of the people trained to deliver the Peaceful School's message in the elementary schools.

For further information, please contact Kim DeCoste at 303-588-2733

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For more about COBRT's involvement with Peter Yarrow, see this story too.

Brave Leaders Award Ceremony and Panel

On March 17, 2016 COBRT and the University of Denver recognized Colorado's finest leaders who exemplify courage, risk-taking and commitment. These leaders have stepped up and made strong, courageous decisions to keep organizations, workers, and companies alive and vibrant. 

The event included a panel discussion facilitated by former Denver Mayor Federico Peña featuring: Chancellor Rebecca Chopp, PhD, University of Denver; Mayor Michael Hancock, City of Denver; and Colorado State Treasurer Walker Stapleton. Sponsored by FirstBank.

Gov. Hickenlooper Nominates Donna Lynne as Lieutenant Governor

DENVER — Wednesday, March 23, 2016 — Gov. John Hickenlooper today nominated Donna Lynne to serve as Lieutenant Governor effective upon formal confirmation by the General Assembly. Lt. Gov. Joe Garcia announced previously that he will leave the state to take on the role of president of Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education. His last day will be April 29, 2016.

Lynne will assume both the traditional duties of the lieutenant governor with additional responsibilities of a chief operating officer to direct state operations. The governor plans to discuss this new role with the General Assembly.  

Lynne is currently the executive vice president of Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc. and Kaiser Foundation Hospitals, overseeing more than an $8 billion budget, 1.3 million members and 16,000 employees for Colorado, Hawaii, Oregon and Washington.

“Donna Lynne is uniquely qualified to take on this role,” said Hickenlooper. “Her background in successfully running large complex organizations - in both the private and public sector - and her wisdom and experience in operations, will enhance the lieutenant governor’s role to make even more of an impact on programs across the state.”

Lynne spent 20 years in New York City government, followed by 20 years in the private sector. Her public sector background includes serving in the New York City Mayor’s Office as Director of the Office of Operations where she helped improve service delivery, facilitated interagency projects including technology initiatives and management oversight.

“It is an honor to be asked to serve Governor Hickenlooper and the residents of Colorado,“ said Lynne. “I look forward to working with the Governor and his cabinet, a team of dedicated professionals who are committed to improving the business and overall climate of Colorado.”

An active member in the community, Lynne is a member of Colorado Concern, Colorado Forum and the Colorado Women’s Forum. She is currently serving on several boards including the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, Denver Public Schools Foundation, National Partnership for Women and Families, Teach for America-Colorado, and the University of Denver. She was also the chair of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce from 2013-14 and served on the board for nine years.

Most recently, she was recognized by Modern Healthcare as one of the top 25 women in health care nationally, received an honorary Doctor of Public Service degree from the University of Denver, and named as one of the 25 Most Powerful Women by the Colorado Women’s Chamber.

Lynne holds a Bachelor of Arts (Economics and Political Science), a Masters of Public Administration, and Doctor of Public Health from Columbia University.

She is married to Jim Brown and together they have five children. She enjoys the Colorado outdoors and has climbed all the fourteeners.

A search is underway in the governor’s office for the executive director of the Colorado Department of Higher Education.

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See more here.

Colorado Companies to Watch Selects 2016 Judging Panel

For Immediate Release
March 18, 2016 

Colorado Companies to Watch Selects 2016 Judging Panel
Annual awards held in Denver on June 17, 2016

Denver, CO – Colorado Companies to Watch (CCTW), now entering its eighth year, is excited to announce it has selected the 2016 judging panel. With over 1,000 companies nominated across the state, the judges now have the task of determining who will be among the CCTW winners, representing Colorado’s most innovative and impactful businesses. Winners will be announced June 17, 2016 at the CCTW Gala Awards Dinner.

This year’s esteemed judges represent a collaboration of executives from private sector and public agencies that have experience with second stage companies and are committed to the excellence of the program. The 2016 CCTW judges are:

• Sanjai Bhagat, University of Colorado at Boulder
• Heather Callender-Potters, PharmaJet
• Charles Fred, Reignite Group
• Travis Gentry, Encore Innovation Investments
• Jonita LeRoy, Governor’s Office of Information Technology
• Jill Terry, Judge Facilitator, Colorado State University
• Kate Waller, BEN Colorado
• Jeff Wasden, Colorado Business Roundtable

“The companies competing for the Colorado Companies to Watch designation represent those with the boldest, most innovative ideas driving Colorado’s economy,” said Jill Terry, Director of Executive Programs at Colorado State University and judge facilitator for the 2016 selection process. “I am honored to be working with a respected group of community leaders who have been chosen to evaluate the applications of such remarkable companies.”

CCTW is a unique awards program that recognizes and celebrates the contribution, innovation and energy of diverse 2nd stage companies in Colorado. These companies work behind the scenes generating the bulk of new, sustainable jobs and are powerful in fueling the economic fire in Colorado.

“The quality of the nominations this year is outstanding. They are a diverse and innovative group who are meaningfully contributing our local and state economies,” said Sean Nohavec, CCTW Chairman of the Board and Senior Vice President, Platinum Sponsor UMB Bank. “Our judges have an opportunity to unearth hidden gems in Colorado and award them due recognition.”

More information about the judges and the June 17th Gala Awards Dinner can be found at ColoradoCompaniestoWatch.org.

About Colorado Companies to Watch
Colorado Companies to Watch, presented by CapitalValue Advisors, is an awards program honoring 2nd-stage companies headquartered in the state of Colorado. The 350 companies that have been honored since the program’s inception demonstrate high performance in the marketplace or exhibit innovative products or processes. The program is designed to seek businesses from a wide range of industries throughout the state, not just the major metropolitan areas. The 50 companies selected each year make an astounding impact on Colorado's economy by collectively providing thousands of jobs and contributing millions of dollars in revenue. The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) launched the program in 2009 in conjunction with the Edward Lowe Foundation and valuable community partners from across Colorado.

For more information on Colorado Companies to Watch, visit ColoradoCompaniestoWatch.org, facebook.com/ColoradoCompaniestoWatch and Twitter @coloradoCTW.

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