News Notes

by Ken Custer

INTERACTIVE AGENCY THE1STMOVEMENT, OPENS DENVER LOCATION
AVO Group, an independent, Denver-based, digital marketing communications agency, announced that it has merged with Pasadena-based The1stMovement, an award-winning, multimedia advertising agency. The company provides digital media for well-known brands including Adobe, E! Online, G4, Gulfstream, Qwest, Rambus, Style Network, Viacom and more.
The1stMovement uses the latest technology to creatively develop multimedia campaigns for the Web, CD/DVD, handheld devices and TV. In 2005, the agency's work for ZeTools Inc. for TV Land received an Emmy®award for outstanding achievement in Interactive TV. Recently, the agency won an FWA (Favourite Websites Award) and several Davey Awards for the online launch of Adobe Acrobat 8 and the Star Trek 2.0 online experience for G4.
ANN VAN ORSDEL, President and Founder of the former AVO Group, says merging with The1stMovement will provide more enhanced technological capabilities for clients, deepen account management and leadership, and offer an additional office location in Denver.
Van Orsdel will operate the new Denver office and oversee client services. Overall agency operations will continue under Chan's direction at the California headquarters. The agency works directly with clients and also partners with traditional and integrated advertising agencies. “In addition to a great product, this business is all about relationships and client/agency trust,” said Van Orsdel, now Managing Director and Vice President of Client Services at The1stMovement
For more information, visit http://www.the1stmovement.com.

90OCTANE ADDS BACHNER, ARCHER AND DUTTON
To execute measurable, high-ROI online media campaigns, Denver-based interactive marketing agency 90octane has appointed JENNY BACHNER as Media Specialist. In her new role, Bachner will execute and evaluate strategic online media plans for lead generation clients and help develop the agency's thought leadership on the subject.
MEGAN ARCHER and GLORIA DUTTON join the 90octane team as Marketing Coordinators. Their responsibilities will include executing search engine optimization (SEO), pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, and online lead generation campaigns. Like all new members of the 90octane account team, Archer and Dutton will also complete the Google Certified Professional and Yahoo! Search Marketing Ambassador programs. Archer was previously employed as Medical Receptionist with Kaiser Permanente and as an English teacher in Madrid, Spain. Dutton had worked as a marketing intern and assistant at RockySoft Corporation in Ft. Collins, CO.
For more information about 90octane, visit www.90octane.com or email jimgrinney@90octane.com.

5280 NOMINATED FOR 2008 NATIONAL MAGAZINE AWARD
For the third time in four years, 5280 Magazine (www.5280.com) has been nominated for a National Magazine Award, the magazine industry's version of the Pulitzer Prize.
Editor-at-Large MIKE KESSLER'S “Out in the Cold,” which tells the story of the U.S. government's betrayal of workers at the Rocky Flats nuclear weapons plant, is a finalist in the prestigious Public Interest category. The category's other finalists are Bloomberg Markets, BusinessWeek, The Nation, and the New Yorker.
Established in 1966, the National Magazine Awards are the preeminent program in the magazine industry to honor editorial excellence. The awards are presented by the American Society of Magazine Editors in association with the
Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism. This year's finalists were chosen from a record-setting 1,964 entries from 333 print and online magazines. Twenty-five winners were announced at a gala event on May 1, at New York City's Lincoln Center.
In addition to the National Magazine Award nomination, 5280 is also a finalist for seven Western Publication Association (WPA) Maggie Wards. The Maggies are open to all print, web, and digital magazines, tabloids, and newsletters published west of the Mississippi.
“We are thrilled that our editorial efforts have been recognized by such prestigious organizations in our industry,” said DANIEL BROGAN, Editor and Publisher. “We work all year long to provide our readers with thought-provoking content, and it is a privilege to be acknowledged alongside national titles that we tremendously admire.”
For More Information, contact KEELY RUBIS SPENCER, Marketing Manager, at 720-266-6209 or go online to www.5280.com.

AMA LUNCH FEATURED ORANGE GLO'S JOEL APPEL
On April 10, the American Marketing Association luncheon speaker was Joel Appel, Founder of Orange Glo/OxiClean. By 2000, sales from OxiClean, Orange Glo and Kaboom exceeded $100 million worldwide.
In 2006, the family sold the business to Church & Dwight (Arm & Hammer), and then formed a new enterprise, Launch Pad LLC. Products being brought to the market through Launch Pad include Brainetics Math & Memory System, FullBar weight loss products and Voots fruit and vegetable supplement.
The AMA May meeting at Maggiano's downtown, will feature Christopher Fisher discussing Gaiam, a Broomfield-based health and wellness company. For information and reservations, go online to coloradoama.com.

AMA HELD NONPROFIT SEMINAR ON APRIL 2
The American Marketing Association (AMA) presented a Strategic Planning and Implementation Best Practices seminar for nonprofits on April 2 at the Courtyard by Marriott on South Colorado Blvd.
Over 80 people attended and heard keynote speaker Jeff Pryor, Executive Director of the Anschutz Family Foundation on how to improve community and economic development. John Brunett, Professor of Marketing at the University of Denver shared wisdom for his recently published book, “Nonprofit Marketing Best Practices.” During the afternoon a panel provided advise and examples about how to implement the strategies learned in the morning sessions.
For more information about AMA, go online to coloradoama.com.

AMÉLIE REDESIGNS WEB SITE FOR ARCHITECTURE, INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM
Amélie Company, a Denver-based advertising, public relations and marketing agency, announced the company has completed its redesign of the Web site for Semple Brown, a top architecture and interior design firm.
Amélie Company competed against several other interactive agencies for the opportunity to work on the redesign of the Semple Brown Web site, http://www.sbdesign-pc.com/. The Amélie team, led by a young, dynamic group of online professionals, developed a feature-packed flash site with eye-catching photography to showcase the Semple Brown portfolio. “Our Web site is the most valuable business development tool we have,” said SARAH SEMPLE BROWN, the firm's Principal. “Amélie provided the creative input we really needed to take our site to the next level.
“Being selected to design a Web site for designers was really an honor - especially for a company as accomplished and forward-looking as Semple Brown,” said ROBIN ASHMORE, Amélie Company Principal. “Their online presence has to reflect how truly creative and cutting edge they are - it was a pleasure to help them achieve this goal.”
More information about Amélie Company can be found online at www.ameliecompany.com.

AOR, INC. HAS 2 NOMINATED FOR “40 UNDER 40”
Denver-based advertising agency AOR, Inc. announced that two of its employees were nominated for the Denver Business Journal's "40 Under 40" list.
AOR's Associate Creative Director KAREN WACHTEL and Account Supervisor MATTHEW KEENEY were among the 180 nominees for the prestigious award. The 40 Under 40 event was created to honor Denver's young, dynamic up-and-coming business leaders. This event recognizes 40 outstanding local professionals under age 40 for their business success and community contributions.
"Both Karen and Matt have been crucial to AOR's success and the success of our clients,” says agency President BETH WAMPLER. “They're smart, innovative, bring great creativity and awesome customer service skills to our agency, but just as important, they make time to give back to our community. From Matt's board membership with the Denver Film Society and the 360 Art Council to Karen's commitment to the Bonfils Blood Center, we're proud of their involvement."
For more information about AOR, Inc., call 303-871-9700 or go online to www.thinkaor.com.

CATAPULT PR LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE TO INCREASE VISIBILITY
Catapult PR-IR, strategic public and investor relations firm specializing in high-tech markets, announced the launch of its new website (www.catapultpr-ir.com). Catapult worked with two innovative Boulder-based firms to launch the new site that will create a high level of visibility for itself and its growing client base.
Slice of Lime was responsible for the overall design and look and feel of the site, and Room 214 provided the content management and social media Web 2.0 features. The site includes a RSS platform for the syndicating press room, generation of client-specific RSS news feeds and unique influencer conversations feeds.
“We're proud to take our website to entirely new limits by incorporating content management and social media aspects,” said TERRI DOUGLAS, Catapult principal. “These enhancements will increase our client's online presence and further increase the value of their PR dollar.”
For more information on Catapult, call 303-581-7760 or visit the company's Web site at www.catapultpr-ir.com.

CHRISTOPHERSON ADDS THREE CLIENTS TO ACCOUNT LIST
Christopherson & Co. has won a multi-agency competition to gain the assignment to reinvigorate and promote the brand of Heather Gardens, one of the region's largest “active adult” communities.
Christopherson will serve as the outsourced marketing department as well as advertising agency for Heather Gardens Association, which represents the owners of the more than 2,600 condominiums, townhomes and patio homes in Heather Gardens. The community is located in Aurora, near I-225 and Parker Road, across from the eastern side of Cherry Creek State Park. The association hired Christopherson to expand awareness and enhance perceptions of the community in order to aid in boosting the market for Heather Gardens homes.
Agency President DAN CHRISTOPHERSON said his firm's first focus will be to utilize research to gain a better understanding about the target market's perceptions of Heather Gardens and rival active adult communities, then “retool and advertise the brand.”
Following a review process in competition with some of the state's most prominent PR firms, Christopherson & Co. recently was selected to continue to serve as the public relations contractor for the E-470 Public Highway Authority.
“Christopherson and Co. has provided stellar public relations, media services, and special event planning to E-470 for almost 20 years. We appreciate the agency's expertise and professionalism and look forward to our continued relationship,” said JO SNELL, E-470's manager of community and public relations.
Sypris Data Systems, Inc. has hired Christopherson as its advertising and public relations agency to promote its new line of signal interception products for the defense and intelligence industries. Sypris is headquartered in San Dimas, California and manufactures its products in Centennial, Colorado. It is a subsidiary of Sypris Solutions, Inc.
For more information, call 303-779-4920 or go online to www.CrisCoCom.com.

CITIZEN PICTURES HOSTS SPRING BREAK HAPPY HOUR
On April 10, Citizen Pictures and Base 2 came to the rescue of all those professionals now out of school and not able to get a spring break. Though there was no airplane to whisk you away to Cancun, there were margaritas, tacos and plenty of spicy sauces for everyone. With a little added music, at least the welcomed break was there.

CITIZEN PICTURES SHOOTS SNOWY CABLE COMMERCIAL
Greenhouse Partners, Boulder-based advertising firm, hired Citizen Pictures to produce a 30 second live-action commercial for Charter Communications. Charter Communications is the nation's third leading cable service provider and was in need of an edgy spot to stand out from competition.
Citizen Pictures embarked on a “Griswolds battle a Suburban Satellite Dish” type of commercial. A stuntman was hired, rigs and cranes were put into place and a snow machine was put to work. Set in a Denver suburban neighborhood, Citizen Pictures created a mid-winter spectacle, in which “Mr. Suburban” climbs to his rooftop to shake snow - and static - from his satellite dish.
While high on the roof, “Mr. Suburban” gets a glimpse into the living room of his neighbors, where they quietly enjoy an evening on the couch watching Charter Communications cable service. “Mr. Suburban” (suspended from wires) slips, then slides down the roof onto a rigged storm gutter. The gutter bends in half, sending “Mr. Suburban” upside down and face first into a big pile of snow. If only “Mr. Suburban” had signed up for Charter Communications rather than his satellite dish service!
Citizen Pictures' was put to the test for this logistically challenging project. The commercial was shot on 16mm film and the production lasted 12 hours: from 3:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m. in February…let's just say it's cold! To watch the Charter Communications commercial, visit www.citizenpictures.com.
For more information about Citizen Pictures, contact SUSAN OSBORNE, Executive Producer at susan@citizenpictures.com or 303-455-5200.

STEVES JOINS CONTINUUM PARTNERS AS DIRECTOR OF RETAIL LEASING
CHARDELL STEVES has joined Continuum Partners, LLC as Director of Retail Leasing. Leasing responsibilities include Continuum's Belmar, Belleview Station, Bradburn and Union Station projects.
Chardell brings 22 years of shopping center and retail experience to this position. Most recently she was senior leasing representative at Park Meadows in Lone Tree, Colo., Fashion Place in Murray, Utah and Cottonwood in Holladay, Utah, a position she held for three years. Steves also worked for The Taubman Company as part of the team that developed and leased Cherry Creek Shopping Center which opened in the early nineties in Denver. A native Coloradoan, Steves has an associates degree in textile design from Handarbetets Vanner in Stockholm, Sweden. She is a member of the International Council of Shopping Centers and supports the Morris Animal Foundation and the Aspen Youth Experience.

AMERICAFREE.TV PARTNERS WITH CRISPIN PORTER + BOGUSKY
Crispin Porter + Bogusky announced that they have formed a partnership with AmericaFree.TV. CP+B will be responsible for revamping and re-launching the AmericaFree.TV website as well as for their overall branding and marketing initiatives. As part of this partnership, CP+B will have a significant equity stake in the company.
“Americafree.tv has organically grown a tremendous audience by quietly putting together a catalog of over a thousand streaming movies. This foundation of content and fans is something we're excited and honored to be a part of. With video already representing half of Net usage and no end in sight for the foreseeable future, there's going to be more than one or two winners in the Internet video world.” said ALEX BOGUSKY, Co-Chairman, CP+B.
“The mission of AmericaFree.TV is to free-up content and make it publicly available on the Web through Streaming Media,” said MIKE SMITH, President and Chief Marketing Officer, AmericaFree.TV. “We offer independent filmmakers more exposure and revenue - the Web is the ultimate distribution channel for them. Public domain material also makes for a very rich user experience. Now, through our collaboration, Crispin Porter + Bogusky and AmericaFree.TV will expand this new entertainment medium and distribution vehicle. Our new partners will guide the artistic and graphical development of the site. Stay tuned!”
For more information about Boulder and Miami-based, Crispin Porter + Bogusky go online to cpbgroup.com.
DENVER WATER EXPANDS COMMUNITY RELATIONS PROGRAM WITH NEW HIRES
Denver Water has expanded its Community Relations Section with the addition of four new staff members.
JOE WATT, Written Communications Specialist, is the most recent addition to the team, bringing experience from his role as Editor for The Denver Post and Rocky Mountain News. He joins STACY CHESNEY, Media Relations Specialist, former Communications Director for the Colorado and Denver Bar Associations; NOEL WILLIS, Electronic Communications Specialist, formerly a Content Developer for Arrow Electronics; and SABRINA HALL, Senior Communications Specialist, who most recently worked as Public Information Manager for Jefferson County Public Library.
“The public's interest in water issues is heightened, particularly in the areas of water quality, future supply and conservation,” said TRINA MCGUIRE-COLLIER, Denver Water's Manager of Community Relations. ”The addition of these talented professionals allows us to improve our communication on these issues, both externally and internally.“
Denver Water is the oldest and largest water utility in Colorado, serving 1.2 million people in the City and County of Denver and many surrounding suburbs. For more information, call Chesney at 303-628-6584 or go online to www.denverwater.org.

EXTRA STRENGTH AT WORK WITH NEW CLIENTS
New clients and projects for Extra Strength Marketing Communications include Epoch Estate Wines, Trinity United Methodist Church, and Syd Sexton Event Productions.
Epoch Estate Wines has retained Extra Strength to create and articulate the brand vision and voice for this new boutique winery in Paso Robles, California. Production will feature Grenache and Syrah varietals, and be limited initially to just several thousand cases. First release is anticipated for Spring, 2010. Extra Strength is creating the graphic identity for Epoch Estate - a unique ambigram design that reads the same both backwards and forwards. In addition to the identity and corporate collateral, Extra Strength is creating the Phase 1 website, bottle and label designs, special event collateral, and apparel items.
“Inventing a brand from ground zero is exciting,” said STEVE KOLOSKUS, Executive Creative Director at Extra Strength. “Epoch will be a luxury brand, and a our client wants to create a unique look. We're really stretching our creative wings.”
Another new project for Extra Strength is the graphic identity for the sesquicentennial celebration for Trinity United Methodist Church. This iconic landmark (at 18th and Broadway) is the oldest active church in Denver. Established in 1859, Trinity Church has been a integral part of the history of Denver itself. Extra Strength will create a logo/identity to celebrate this important event.
Another new client is Syd Sexton Event Productions, a new event production company specializing in corporate events, exclusive weddings, and special affairs. Extra Strength will create Ms. Sexton's brand identity, website, and sales collateral.
For more information call 303-744-8089 or go online to www.extrastrength.net.

INTERACTIVE AGENCY FACTION MEDIA EXPERIENCES UNPRECEDENTED GROWTH
Faction Media, an interactive digital advertising and marketing firm, has experienced an unprecedented 324% increase in billings since its inception in 2005.
With an impressive and expanding B2B client list, including Avaya, Time Warner Telcomm, and Johns Manville, Faction Media has successfully proven they are able to offer their clients an unmatched level of service and expertise in interactive development aligned with systematic online marketing - executed within a complete interactive brand strategy.
Faction Media was founded in 2005 by AARON BATTE, DAVE GREVES, and STEVE RIEGEL. Launching with just four employees, the agency is currently staffed at 25 employees and is continuing to expand to accommodate new clients and additional projects. Faction Media recently relocated into a larger space in the heart of downtown Denver to accommodate growth in mid-2007.
For additional information about the agency visit www.factionmedia.com.

GROUNDFLOOR MEDIA ADDS SEASONED PR MANAGER
GroundFloor Media, Inc., a Denver-based public relations firm, announced the addition of AMANDA BRANNUM as Senior Public Relations Manager. Brannum brings more than a decade of experience in PR and marketing to the agency, which experienced a 37 percent labor revenue growth in 2007.
Brannum was one of GroundFloor Media's earliest team members, having worked in her home state of Texas on behalf of the agency in 2001. Brannum most recently spent six years working in the nonprofit sector as the Associate Director of North Texas Business for Culture and the Arts in Dallas, where she worked with more than 100 companies to promote and encourage business support for the arts in Texas. She oversaw all marketing and communications efforts for the organization, including media relations, advertising and event planning.
“Amanda is an integral part of GroundFloor Media's team, and we are thrilled that her career has brought her full circle and back to our agency,” said LAURA LOVE, President and Founder of GroundFloor Media.
For a complete list of clients and capabilities, visit www.GroundFloorMedia.com.

GUTTAU PUBLIC RELATIONS INTEGRATES NEW TALENT
Guttau Public Relations, a public relations firm specializing in restaurants, education, retail and nonprofit industries, is expanding their team with the addition of JESSICA KUNEVICIUS and JAMIE WOOLDRIDGE as Account Coordinators.
“We are adding additional talent to meet the needs of our clients and to allow room for new clients,” said JIM GUTTAU, Principal. “Our new team members bring expertise from the media and entertainment sectors and will help take our company to the next level.”
For more information about the firm and its results, contact Guttau at 303-477-0233.

IABC SOUTHERN REGION CONFERENCE COMING TO DENVER
The International Association of Business Communicators Southern Region Conference will be held in Denver on September 29-30, 2008 at the Marriott City Center.
The IABC Southern Region Conference is a top national forum for business communication and marketing professionals from leading industries and organizations throughout the U.S. These professionals - from all levels of their organizations - gather annually to learn the latest trends, developments and best practices in communication, marketing and public relations.
Conference marketing initiatives will repeatedly reach more than 3,500 of these professionals - including decision-makers at hundreds of corporations, agencies and other organizations nationwide. Combining outstanding professional development, low-cost travel, and a reasonable pricing structure the conference is considered a great value for professionals and their organizations.
The anticipated attendance is 250-300 total with 20-40 per breakout session. Attendees will include communications, marketing and public relations professionals from throughout the U.S., and the Caribbean with primary concentration on the IABC Southern Region.
For more information, go online to the IABC website at iabc-colorado.com.

INGATHER RESEARCH OPENS NEW “REALITY” RESEARCH FACILITY
Ingather Research's new “Reality” Focus Group facility in Denver is offering clients a more natural and realistic environment to conduct research. The facility is located at 475 S. Youngfield Court, Lakewood, CO 80228.
INGATHER provides everything that a traditional focus group facility does and much more with many room configurations for clients to choose from to best meet their research needs. Some rooms include, Living Room, Conference Room, Full Kitchen for Taste Tests, Contemporary and Library Offices for IDI's to Dyads, Dining Room, Wet Bar and Youth for Kids, Tweens & Teens.
The client space is 1,600 sq. ft. and offers a high tech virtual viewing room with 100” screen, a conference area with 60” big screen HDTV, a business center area with 42” HDTV and a full wet bar including commercial espresso staffed with a dedicated host(ess).
The facility is equipped with the latest technology including, Wireless High Speed Internet, Direct TV (Cable), 42, 50 and 60” HDTV's for Playback, DVD, Digital Audio, Cassette and VHS Recordings, Usability and Videoconferencing.
For more information call CHRISTINE COOK at 303-988-6808 or go online to www.ingatherresearch.com.

THE INTEGER GROUP® WINS TWO REGGIE AWARDS
The Integer Group, a full-service promotional and retail marketing agency, recently won two Bronze REGGIE Awards for their Bounty, Bounty Re-launch campaign and for their Silk Soymilk, Green Caps for Green Energy national promotion campaign. The Reggie Awards are judged by industry professionals and recognize superior promotional thinking, creativity, execution and results in promotional/integrated marketing.
“We are thrilled to be listed among the best promotion campaigns of 2007,” says MARC DUCNUIGEEN, President of The Integer Group. “Our teams were able to take a look at the overall brand and strategically execute innovative campaigns at retail. We are committed to delivering great results to our clients and it's an honor to have our hard work recognized by our peers.”
For more information about the Integer Group, go online to www.integer.com.

THE INTEGER GROUP® EXPANDS ITS INSIGHT AND STRATEGY TEAM
The Integer Group, a national promotional and retail marketing agency, has recently hired two senior staff members to expand its Insight and Strategy Department in the Denver office. Integer has hired ETHAN DECKER as Director, and MICHAEL GLUNK as Senior Planner of Insight and Strategy.
Decker has been hired to lead recent new business wins for Integer. He has a Ph.D. from the University of New Mexico, and his experience as an accomplished researcher, author and seminar speaker makes him an integral player on the Insight and Strategy team.
Glunk has been hired to support the strategic work of Integer's client, Polaris. Glunk comes to Integer from adidas America, and his knowledge of retail marketing strategies makes him an important addition to the group.
“Our team has more than doubled in the last year, and the addition of these two highly talented people continues our growth in capabilities we offer” said CRAIG ELSTON, Senior Vice President, Insight & Strategy. “As Integer solidifies its global position as the in the retail and promotional marketing space, our new hires further enable us to satisfy the insight and strategy needs of our clients' brands.”
For more information about The Integer Group, go online to www.integer.com.

COLOMER USA CHOOSES LOCAL KARSH\HAGAN FOR WORLDWIDE CREATIVE
With the announcement of four new business wins from industry-leading companies during the month of March, Karsh\Hagan (K\H) is on a winning streak. Among the wins is Colomer USA, headquartered in Denver, which chose the agency to steer its new marketing initiatives.
After a thorough agency review process, Colomer USA, a leading manufacturer of personal care and grooming products for the professional salon community, selected K\H as its new creative partner and agency of record. K\H will oversee strategic branding and creative development for four of Colomer's top global brands-American Crew, MOP (Modern Organic Products), ABBA and ROUX.
“Creativity lives everywhere, and is expected from everyone in our agency,” said JOHN HARRIS, President of Karsh\Hagan. Citing a recent news article which suggested the future of the U.S. future economy will be driven by is creativity, Harris added, “creative is not only essential in this economy, but it's the way the U.S. will compete and rise again in the global community.”
For more information, visit www.karsh.com.

JOHN KEIEFER RELEASES TWO NEW BOOKS
JOHN KIEFFER, Founder of Kieffer Nature Stock, a Boulder stock photo agency, proudly announced his two newest photo books. "Denver, Colorado: A Photographic Portrait" and "Boulder, Colorado: A Photographic Portrait."
Both are coffee-table style books from respected Twin Lights Publishers. (www.TwinLightsPub.com) Autographed copies are available from John Kieffer, or from the publisher and bookstores.
Visit www.KiefferNatureStock.com or email John@KiefferNatureStock.com

LINHART'S “THE LADY IN THE SUN” ENTERED IN THE MASK PROJECT
Linhart Public Relations Managing Partner SHARON LINHART will join other prominent local and national figures in supporting The Mask Project, a fundraiser benefiting Denver Hospice. Every two years, The Mask Project asks renowned artists, celebrities, sports figures, political and community leaders to create a mask that will be displayed at the Cherry Creek Shopping Center and auctioned off to benefit Denver Hospice. This is the first year that local business leaders were asked to participate in the event.
"It's neat that The Mask Project is including business people this year, and I am flattered to be asked to contribute," said Linhart. Linhart's mask, dubbed "The Lady in the Sun," was designed and created by her husband, Jerry, who calls Sharon "the inspiration for the mask and the light of my life."
“The Lady in the Sun” and other masks will be displayed at the Cherry Creek Shopping Center May 5 through May 31 and available for purchase through online, silent and live auctions. Bids will be accepted through The Mask Project's Web site (www.themaskproject.org) May 5 through May 30. Bidders can also vie for their favorite masks during silent and live auctions on the evening of May 31 during The Mask Project Gala, when the Cherry Creek Shopping Center will be transformed into a Venetian carnival.
According to the Denver Hospice, the Mask Project has raised $3 million for end-of-life care throughout the Denver-metro area since it started 10 years ago.

MERKLE HIRES RICH FLECK AS VP, STRATEGIC SERVICES
(BUSINESS WIRE)--Merkle, a database marketing agencies, announced the hiring of RICH FLECK as Vice President, Strategic Services for Merkle's Interactive Services division. In this role, Fleck will be responsible for further developing customized data-driven marketing approaches that help Merkle's clients improve the performance of their interactive marketing programs.
Fleck has served as a consultant to several leading brands, including Pepsi, Sony, Microsoft and Intel. Prior to joining Merkle, Fleck was Vice President, Strategic Services, at Epsilon Interactive, and was formerly a leader in the Strategic Services group at DoubleClick.
For more information, contact Merkle at 1-877-9-MERKLE or visit www.merkleinc.com.

METZGER ASSOCIATES OPENS BAY AREA OFFICE
BUSINESS WIRE--Metzger Associates, a high-tech public relations firms, has opened a Bay Area office.
“During the tech boom of the '90s, we must have 'almost' opened an office in Silicon Valley a dozen times,” said CEO and Founder JOHN METZGER. “Now that the technology industry has made a comeback, we're seeing stronger demand for our services, and a growing need for West Coast media and analyst representation for our clients located across the country and around the world.”
Longtime San Jose PR pro CYNTHIA HOYE will help establish the office, and begin supporting existing Metzger clients as part of the firm's team-focused approach to account service.
For more information, please visit www.metzger.com.

NATIONAL TELEVISION ACADEMY ANNOUNCES 2008 SILVER CIRCLE INDUCTEES
The Heartland Chapter of the National Television Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS) announced its 2008 Silver Circle inductees, who will be honored at the Heartland Chapter Regional Emmy Awards ceremony on July 19, 2008, at the Belmar Event Center, Lakewood, Colo. The Silver Circle is not an award, but a society honoring those who have made a significant contribution to the broadcasting industry over a period of 25 years.
The 2008 Silver Circle Inductees are: ERNIE BJORKMAN - News Anchor with KWGN CW2 in Denver; SUZANNE MCCARROLL - Reporter with KCNC CBS4 in Denver; WARD LUCAS - Anchor/Reporter with KUSA 9News in Denver; and JAMES MORGESE - President and General Manager of Rocky Mountain PBS in Denver.
For more information, visit www.emmyawards.tv.

O'BRIEN ADVERTISING RECEIVES NATIONAL HEALTHCARE AD AWARD
O'Brien Advertising of Denver, was recently awarded with a Silver Award for its work with Banner Alzheimer's Institute at the 2007 Annual HealthLeaders Media Marketing Awards event in New York City. The HealthLeaders Media Marketing Awards recognize the nation's best healthcare marketing campaigns.
O'Brien's winning campaign positioned the Banner Alzheimer's Institute in Phoenix, Ariz., as the market leader in Alzheimer's research and care. It also succeeded in dramatically increasing public awareness and inquiry volume to the facility. After two months of running the advertising campaign, the Institute went from receiving an average of 27 calls per month to 218 calls per month.
“Banner Health has been a valuable client to O'Brien for many years and we are proud to continue to produce work that brings awareness to its services and success to our firm,” said TERRI O'BRIEN, Owner and Creative Director of O'Brien Advertising. “We look forward to another successful year working with Banner in 2008.”
For more information contact Cassie Jones at 303-820-2174 or go online to www.obrienadv.com.

SCREEN TO GREEN DEBUTS RECYCLING INITIATIVE
October Strategies, Inc., a strategic communications agency announced the launch of 'Screen to Green,' a new comprehensive initiative for the cable industry to engage consumers in recycling obsolete televisions to better the environment.
As many consumers embrace the power of high-definition television, they are choosing to upgrade to digital-ready sets and relegating their analog sets to rooms less used or abandoning them altogether. For those who choose to toss their sets, they may not know about the environmental impact that electronics, specifically televisions, have on landfills. To inform consumers about the toxic dangers of TVs in landfills, Screen to Green provides a responsible, well-researched, authentic and convenient program created as a resource for local cable companies to inform and engage consumers about responsible television recycling.
To translate education into action, at the heart of the Screen to Green program, participating companies will invite consumers to responsibly discard their unused televisions at a local community "Recycling Rally" so that these televisions may be recycled and repurposed. The program is structured so that cable companies in local markets may extend their local presence, brand and resources to support a Recycling Rally. The initiative is initially available to all cable companies, vendors and other companies that wish to participate in aiding television consumers to make a more positive environmental impact.
Screen to Green (S2G) is expected to hold its first S2G Recycling Rally in mid-2008. The program will be carried into next year and beyond as the country prepares for the Digital Transition in February 2009.
For more information, visit www.screentogreen.com.

PERI MARKETING ADDS SOPHIR TO TEAM
Springtime is synonymous with growth and that's just what's happening at Peri Marketing and Public Relations, Inc. The agency recently added MIKE SOPHIR to the team, spearheading work developing corporate alliances and sponsorships on behalf of clients.
Sophir joins the agency with considerable marketing experience, particularly in developing cause marketing and corporate sponsorship programs. Most recently, he was the Director of Corporate Sponsorship/Giving for The Children's Hospital Foundation in Denver. In this capacity, Sophir demonstrated his able skills creating strategic alliances for businesses and nonprofits that meet marketing objectives. He is brilliant at creating sound business partnerships between for-profit organizations looking to achieve more than "good corporate citizenship" from their community efforts while expanding the resources on behalf of the nonprofit.
“We're thrilled about bringing Mike on board and offering such a timely capability to our clients,” Said PAULA PERI TIERNAN.
For more information, call at 303-298-7374 or go online to www.perimarketing.com.

PHILOSOPHY COMMUNICATION WINS DATAVAIL ACCOUNT
Philosophy Communication, Inc., a Denver-based marketing and public relations agency, was selected by Datavail to manage their public relations and media relations campaign.
“Philosophy impressed us with their unique understanding of the Denver marketplace and especially of their knowledge in the technical field. We are confident in their ability to lead a successful campaign that introduces us to local media professionals and ultimately will help grow our business,” says MICHAEL JONES, Datavail President.
Datavail Corporation is a managed service provider with headquarters and operations in Denver, Colo. Datavail provides virtual database administration for small- and medium-sized businesses. The company offers database management services, including database monitoring, support and proactive administration, as well as architecture planning.
For more information, visit www.philosophycommunication.com.

PITE CREATIVE ADDS CLIENTS, LAUNCHES WEBSITES
Pite Creative Services Inc. was selected to implement ongoing corporate communications programs including the annual report design and website development for Solitario, Comet Ridge Oil & Gas, Golden Cycle, Constellation Copper and Brazauro.
Solitario, based in Denver, is an exploration stage company that engages in the acquisition and exploration of mineral properties principally for sale or joint venture prior to the establishment of proven and probable reserves. Comet Ridge Oil & Gas is a publicly listed Australian energy company. Comet Ridge's initial strategy was one of identifying and capturing coal seam gas opportunities in the extensive coal deposits of Queensland and New South Wales.
Golden Cycle, based in Colorado Springs, discovers, develops, and mines precious metal properties. The Company's primary business consists of its participation in the Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mining Company, a joint venture with Pikes Peak Mining Company. Constellation Copper is a Toronto-based firm recognized as a mid-tier producer of copper through its focus on development of mineral deposits amenable to open pit mining methods and recovery by SX-EW as well as by acquiring producing assets.
Brazauro is a Houston-based firm run by experienced mining professionals with extensive gold exploration success. The Company has assembled a major land position in the prolific Tapajos Gold District of Brazil.
Pite Creative Services Inc. recently designed, developed and launched websites for One Katy Plaza, North Metro Fire Rescue, Scor-it and Mountain View Fire. Mountain View Fire provides an array of emergency and non-emergency services including: Fire, Rescue, Advanced Life Support Transport Services and Basic Life Support Emergency Medical Service, Public Education,
One Katy Plaza is an office building located in Houston, Texas. North Metro Denver Fire Rescue provides the highest quality emergency services to the communities it serves. HAMMONDSgroup, Inc. was formed in 1990 with the specific purpose of creating an efficient tool to produce machine-quality scores, in paper stock, by hand.
For more information on Pite Creative visit its web site at http://www.pitecreative.com or call 720-304-9411.

PLATYPI LAUNCHES, ACQUIRES DCPA PRODUCTION FACILITIES
DENVER--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Platypi Inc., a business offering a unique set of services to help intellectual property owners cultivate their ideas and turn them into reality, has launched in the heart of downtown Denver.
The name Platypi (plural for platypus) was chosen because, like the animal, the company is a combination of many elements. Through the purchase of the Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA) production facility, Platypi features an award-winning production center with complete film, video, interactive media and recording studio capabilities, as well as the services of a fully integrated intellectual property development firm. J.F. RICK ROMANO III, an entertainment, sports and intellectual property attorney, is the Founder, Chairman and CEO of Platypi and its parent company, JFR Holdings Corp.
Romano's vision came to fruition when he acquired the DCPA production facilities, which completed projects in all areas of media for the DCPA for more than three decades. While still providing media and creative services to the DCPA, Platypi is now opening this award-winning center - coupled with extensive business and legal services - to the domestic and international marketplace.
For more information visit www.thinkplatypi.com.

PRESS CLUB/PRSA HONOR TIM RUSSERT WITH DAMON RUNYON AWARD
On Sunday, April 13, the Denver Press Club and co-sponsor Colorado Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America, presented the 14th Annual Damon Runyon Award to Tim Russert of NBC's Meet the Press. Over 750 people attended the event at the Marriott City Center.
Master of Ceremonies for the banquet was Adam Schrager, KUSA, 9News. Attendees included members of the press, PR professionals and many civic and political leaders including Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper who proclaimed Sunday, April 13 as Tim Russert Day.
For more information about The Denver Press Club, go online to www.denvrpressclub.org. For information about PRSA, go online to prsacoloado.org.

PRSA HOSTS STUDENTS FOR SHADOW OPPORTUNITIES
Nearly 30 PR hopefuls swarmed the Denver area to pick up words of wisdom from PR professionals as part of the 2008 Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) Shadow Day. The March PRSA luncheon coincided with the student event on Wednesday, March 19, 2008.
Students from Colorado State University, Metropolitan State University and the University of Northern Colorado joined more than 30 professionals in this one-day event. “This event will give students an opportunity to “shadow” workplace mentors as they go through a normal day on the job, allowing them to see firsthand how the skills learned in school relate to the workplace,” said JANE DVORAK, APR, Chair of the PRSA Student Outreach Committee.
Two host sessions were held for the students creating more than 40 professional matches. The morning session took place from 7:30 a.m. - 11.30 a.m. and the afternoon session was from 1:00p.m. - 4:30p.m. The sold-out PRSA Luncheon program, "The Democratic National Convention's Communication Efforts," anchored the two sessions, giving students an added opportunity to engage with professionals. About 30 students participated in the program, with students from Metro and UNC taking part for the first time.
The PRSA Student Outreach Committee provides guidance to Colorado PRSSA chapters and cultivates relationships between the PRSA Colorado Chapter and student PR programs. The PRSA Colorado Chapter is celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year and is the sixth largest chapter in the nation with nearly 500 members.
For more information about PRSA Colorado, go online to prsacolorado.org.

HEATHER NEVILL JOINS PURPLE CRAYONS INTERACTIVE
Purple Crayons Interactive, a digital solutions company, announced that technology industry veteran HEATHER NEVILL has joined its team as Director of Sales.
“We are excited to have Heather join our growing company,” remarked Purple Crayons President CANDI BOYER. “Her extensive industry experience will help take us to the next level.”
Formerly with Sprint Nextel Communications, Nevill brings 15 years of technology experience to the Purple Crayons team. At Sprint Nextel, Nevill's last position was as a Senior Regional Manager of Sales Engineering for the West region.
A dedicated community activist, Nevill is involved in a wide array of organizations, including the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) National board of governors, HRC Colorado Federal Club and steering committee, Matthew Shepard Foundation's Leadership Council, Women in Technology International, and the Colorado Community Center's board of directors.
For more information about Purple Crayons, visit www.purplecrayons.com.

EDUCATION BUSINESS NEWS SITE LAUNCHED BY QED AND THE HELLER REPORTS
Education business and school leaders now have industry news at their fingertips on “B2E News Alert a new online news hub for the education industry provided by The Heller Reports and Quality Education Data (QED®), a leading education market research and database firm, and a wholly owned subsidiary of Scholastic, the global children's publishing, education and media company.
“B2E News Alert” will become the Web home for QED/The Heller Reports News Alert, which provides trusted weekly e-newsletters covering the latest education business news. The new site will contain free news about product launches, business trends, legislative issues, and education executive moves, and will include a searchable news archive. “B2E News Alert” uses press releases and other news resources as sources for its content, and includes weekly columns and analysis from the editor.
“For close to 20 years, The Heller Reports has provided up-to-date news about the education industry and has grown into a trusted information source for education executives,” said NELSON HELLER, the Founder and President of The Heller Reports. “By launching 'B2E News Alert,' we can make education business news accessible to our readers - anywhere, anytime.”
“We're pleased to add this exciting education business news site to the package of services QED provides to education marketers,” said ANDY LACY, President of QED. “People for years have depended on The Heller Reports newsletters to help them stay on the cutting edge of the industry. “B2E News Alert” will be the true online news hub for the education business world.”
To get the latest education business news visit the new “B2E' news site file:///C:\Documents%20and%20Settings\Tylerree\My%20Documents\March%2008\b2e.qeddata.com.

RMDMA HOLDS 27TH ANNIVERSARY BOWLING PARTY
On Tuesday, March 18, the Rocky Mountain Direct Marketing Association (RMDMA) held their 27th Anniversary Bowling Party at Splitz Bowling Lanes in Westminster. The $20.00 entry fee included bowling, shoe rental, pizza, appetizers, dessert and soft drinks. It was a family affair with kids and adults, many displaying their once a year skills at bowling, having a great time.
For more information about RMDMA, go online to www.RMDMA.org.

SCHENKEIN ADDS DENVER PRESCHOOL PROGRAM TO CLIENT LIST
Schenkein, a public relations agency, has added Denver Preschool Program to its growing client roster.
Denver Preschool Program was created to increase access to quality, early childhood education (ECE) programs for all City and County of Denver children in their last year of preschool before kindergarten. Approved by Denver voters in November 2006, the Denver Preschool Program provides tuition credits for parents to send their child or children to an approved preschool provider.
“Access to early education is crucial, as it serves as the foundation for a strong public education system, ” said LEANNA CLARK, APR, agency Principal and Co-Owner, and a member of Mayor John Hickenlooper's Leadership Team on Early Childhood Education, a group of Denver's business and civic leadership convened to serve as champions for ECE in Denver and garner support for community action.
Schenkein has partnered with Xcelente Marketing Group and TradeWinds Communications, two Denver-based firms specifically focused on reaching Denver's diverse communities, to develop a culturally appropriate community outreach campaign that focuses on enrolling eligible students and preschool providers in the program. Together the agencies will work to educate Denver families and preschool providers about the importance of ECE and the benefits of participating in the Denver Preschool Program, to be accomplished through strategic public relations, media relations and grassroots community outreach.
For more information, contact Schenkein at 303-292-6655 or www.schenkein.com. For more information about Xcelente call 720-488-4188 or go online to www.xcelentemarketing.com. For more information about TradeWinds Communications, call 303-671-0499, or visit www.tradewindspr.com.

FIRSTBANK OPENS TDA ACCOUNT
FirstBank, Lakewood, CO, has named TDA ADVERTISING & DESIGN, Boulder, as advertising agency of record. The incumbent was Ryden & Associates, Denver. A $5 million budget will go to strategic planning, corporate design, broadcast, print, online, outdoor and non-traditional advertising, plus event marketing, sponsorships, direct mail, and collateral, with first work to break in June, '08.
FirstBank VP, Director of Marketing, BRIAN JENSEN states, “Having grown to become the second largest bank in Colorado, and now newly expanded into the Arizona market, we felt this was a useful time to reassess our branding efforts. TDA's innovative design expertise promises to bring a fresh perspective to our advertising.”
TDA Director of Client Services TERI FILDEY adds, “We see a real opportunity in a category where so much money is spent, while so little is actually communicated to the consumer.”
For more information, call Jonathan Schoenbert, 303-247-1180, X207.
For more information about Xstatic PR, go online to www.xstaticpr.com.

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