Let Me Just Say It Then

2009

2009-01-03T20:48:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I am going to accept that I have a fear of success and work to fix it. 2009 is my year for success and for the most part, I am trying to not equate success to anything I do professionally.
I have applied for a position that I think is right up my ally and I have untied my inner self from the outcome. I am not going to be a Director this year and I am not going to get a raise no matter how hard I work thanks to the economy and the nature of what I do.

So this year, success is going to be measured in how much weight I lose, how many miles I can run consecutively, whether I can learn to plan, shop for, and prepare cleaner meals, my ability to give up coffee, and stop eating chocolate when I am sad, mad, anxious or bored, and the opportunity to raise myself and my daughter to be healthy people. Success would equate to getting back into college and pursuing my bachelor's degree, while keeping my eye on a Master's program and knowing that I can do it if I want to do it.

Yes sir, my fear of success is a few good shakes from hitting the ground and being left behind and I will not look back upon it.

I am working on selfish.

2008-12-04T19:40:00.001-08:00

I talked to a very good friend of mine on the way home from work tonight. Recently, my husband told me that I have a fear of success and my friend lovingly confirmed that. I can succeed if it sets a good example or benefits others, but when it comes to working on my weight and health - well that is selfish and I am not selfish. It confuses me as to why I cannot wrap my arms around being selfish since my parents mastered it, but it was suggested that maybe that is why I find it so difficult. Do they have a book for this?

Sunday Ramblings

2008-11-16T12:36:00.000-08:00

To say I am having a lazy weekend would be an understatement. I am clinching every muscle I have watching the Broncos game, so tomorrow I will be sore without breaking a sweat. It is my sincere hope to get off the couch and get some mileage in this afternoon. It looks nice outside and is supposed to be in the 70's on Tuesday, so there is really little excuse for me in the coming days. It is an event week and I do have a parent teach conference for Little this week, but still - no excuses.

So the Broncos - can anyone explain to me why there is so much discussion surrounding Brandon Marshall? I am just not a fan and don't think he outshines any of the other receivers. I think Eddie Royal is doing a bang up job and shows a lot of heart. Speaking of heart, mine is broken looking at Jason Elam in a red and black jersey standing on the Falcons sideline. I cannot imagine how I will feel looking at Matt Holiday playing for another team. Every day is no longer a Holliday for Colorado fans!

A Lazy Day

2008-11-13T18:34:00.001-08:00

I am low energy. My mileage today sucked and I do not care! I will suffer later.

Collateral Damage is more than a movie title

2008-11-12T19:53:00.000-08:00

So here is where I am with this....My recent plague has wiped out my flex spending, which is how I was paying for my trainer (pre-tax is the only way to go). Not only has it wiped it out, but I also owe out of pocket and yes, I have good insurance that requires me to only pay 20%, however, it is still freaking expensive.

So I am trying not to pout, but the reality is that I am pretty much on my own for the rest of the year. That being said, I walked 2 1/2 miles for exercise tonight and have an overall total of 7 miles for the day. After losing part of my lung, I am thinking that I should focus on good cardio fitness and get myself back to running more than I can right now before I really need to add weight/strength training. And I am saying this because the 2 1/2 miles was kind of tough for me. Or I could be posturing because I am aggravated at the collateral damage caused by my original misdiagnosis. Either way, wish me luck.

Cold Night Air

2008-11-11T20:35:00.000-08:00

I ran in the cold dusk air. I ran farther than I have in a long time. I hurt, but it is the good kind. Training with Psycho Barbie is on tap for tomorrow night!

Tomorrow is another day

2008-11-10T18:53:00.000-08:00

So we could chalk it up to the cold weather, or the chocolate I ate yesterday, or that I did not drink enough water, or that I did not eat my snack on time (read: at all), or maybe all of these things could be true. My running sucked today and to say I ran would be generous. I did get some mileage in today, but not the right kind. Let's just leave it at tomorrow is another day.

No Sunday Mileage for Me

2008-11-09T18:09:00.000-08:00

So I had the notion that I would go to the gym today and get on the treadmill. I have been woken early all weekend by my daughter and the dogs, so to say I am not rested is an understatement. That being said, if I did not work out on the days that I was not rested, my feet would never see my running shoes. So, my husband talked me into taking the dogs and my daughter on her bike around the block for some movement. 1) I was not looking for movement and 2) How does this help me at all when I am already tired? So we got about half a block of my daughter crying when we got to hills, needed to cross the street, or when I went too fast. The dogs were crazed by the fact that she was ahead of us, would not walk with me but instead kept walking circles around me because we were going so slow, and wanted to be on the side that my daughter was riding. Needless to say, I did not get my mileage in today. My goal for tomorrow is to leave the hospital on time and get 3 miles in - whether I have to walk some of it or not.

Goals, Let's Set Some

2008-11-06T19:05:00.000-08:00

So today was not an exercise day for me. Unfortunately, I played single Mommy tonight and did not get home early enough to walk the dogs or work out. I feel good though. I did not get any sleep last night and was actually up at 3:30 am with my daughter and then the dogs. I think the exercise is helping the fact that I am not getting 8 hours of sleep a night. So I have decided to spend some time tonight looking at potential races and setting goals.

So let's try the Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day, Rudolph's Revenge 10K a month later, Frosty's Frozen 10M a month later, Half Marathon(Colfax) in May, and Marathon(Denver) in October.

The Road To The Run

2008-11-05T19:47:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my new journal. Unfortunately, I cannot wipe away my previous posts or the political perspectives and I guess I don't want to, but due to the circumstances surrounding the latest election, I have nothing more to say about politics and the ruin we are about endure.

So now this is my journey from the current me to the best possible me. My first goal is a 5k. I am hoping that I can do the Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving, but am taking things really slowly so as not to injure my lungs. Tonight I ran a 10 minute mile - so it was only for a minute and a half, but I am going to run a 10 minute mile until I can do so for 3.1 miles.

Someone Get Me The Words to the Canadian Anthem

2008-11-04T18:40:00.000-08:00

I am looking at electoral votes of 200 to 90. Nothing good can from an Obama Presidency and I am going to have to turn my back on politics. The American people are speaking loud and clear and honestly believe that Obama will not raise their taxes, and have the power to fix social security, health care, and the economy. This is what happens when emotion prevails and destroys all logic. This is great news for anyone not wanting to work hard for a living.

Suggestions for John Kerry's Transvestite Stage Name...

2008-11-03T19:42:00.001-08:00

John Kerry lost the election and has working on his persona as a transvestite ever since. If you watched Meet the Press yesterday then you know that he wears more make-up than Bozo the Clown and Leona Helms. Thank God for Fred Thompson and his good ole smart talk.

Election tomorrow. This may be one of my last political posts thanks to the fact that they create political ads that speak to the lowest common denominator of voter.

Shame on the Media, the Politicians, and Who Is Running These Damn Cmapaigns?

2008-11-02T07:00:00.000-08:00

I can't day that I am happy with the way this campaign has gone. I almost said campaign year, but for Barack Obama, it has been much longer than that, begging the question as to how his constituents feel about their lack of representation for a large part of time in which he was elected to solely represent them?

Like so many other things, campaigning turned the corner at the very moment that Bill Clinton made a guest appearance on The Tonight Show with saxophone in hand. The integrity of the office continued to decline after he was elected, but that was the single event that made it acceptable for politicians and their campaigns to perform rather than politic.

Mainstream media has played a large part in this election and not from a responsible journalism point of view, but instead they are incredibly biased and one sided - making me miss the professionalism that Tim Russert exhibited all the more. I do not appreciate the sexism of the good ole boys network that NBC has become and feel like Sarah Palin was as good of a choice as anyone else would be. And let's get real, the only reason Joe Biden is on Obama's tickets is because he is as sure as the rest of us that we would be referring to him as President Biden before the end of an Obama term. But who would dare report that? The networks won't even discuss Obama's lack of experience or the fact that he has not authored one piece of legislature or come up with one original idea. Where is the journalism? Where is the story?

I have said this out loud, but I may have to change this blog if the Dems win this one. There would be too much for me to write about when they renege on every promise they made to the naive liberal audience. Joe the Plumber is going to be pissed when they raise the taxes on his $45K salary and he has to drink Pabst Blue Ribbon rather than our beloved Coors. Yes, too large of a target would become a full time job for me and since Barack Obama could not run this country on his own, due to his grotesque lack of experience, we would have 4 more years of the Clinton Administration. That's the bad news....The good news is that there are bj's for everyone!

Fiscal Responsibility And Democrats Don't Mix

2008-10-29T19:28:00.000-07:00

Does anyone find it ironic that the same man who has been preaching Fiscal Responsibility for 18 months has gone and paid for 30 minutes of air time on every major station during prime time?

Ironic or hypocracy? It's on the same plane as the DNC inviting Bill Clinton, but not John Edwards to the party. I guess it matters how long ago you cheated on your wife or maybe where you do it makes all the difference.

Someone needs to explain this to me.

I'm Not Voting ON Election Day....

2008-10-13T21:08:00.000-07:00

I have no idea why anyone is looking at the market and their long-term investments. One, the market will rebound and best itself. Two, there are 22 days until the most controversial election in my lifetime. Just don't look people, just don't look.

In other news, this will be the first time in my life that I do not drive to my precinct, stand in life, and pull the lever (OK, it is a touch screen, but ya know...). Nope, I am not voting on election day this year. I am participating in the mail in ballot system. I am so conflicted by this in that I think it takes something away from the experience and the honor that is my right to vote. That being said, I have been sick and there are a record number of registered voters, and I cannot stomach the idea of this taking me hours and hours. Oh and did I mention that this is the longest ballot ever?

A Letter To Barack

2008-10-07T22:06:00.000-07:00

Dear Mr Obama,

Shut the hell up!

Sincerely,

One of the Few Americans That Can Do Math

Can I Call You Joe?

2008-10-03T19:45:00.001-07:00

I have to say that I was not looking forward to the Veep Debate last night. Gov. Palin has not shown great promise in her recent air time and I really could not stomach her being anything short of brilliant. Much to the dismay of mainstream media, her critics, and Senator Biden, she kicked ass.

She had me at "Can I call you Joe?"

Now in all fairness, I am not a fan of Joe Biden. I mean, no one is going to love the sound of his voice as much as he does - and from that perspective, he did not disappoint. Catch phrase of the night "Let me say that again". Yes, Joe - the target audience of a political debate are so obtuse that we require you to repeat yourself at least two or three times before we fully understand what you are saying - Please speak slowly and use small words.

I'm Not Drinking The Obama Kool-Aid

2008-09-30T09:07:00.000-07:00

The Bailout Bill did not pass and the Stock Market tanked as a result. In true rebound form, the investors are back to work this morning and the market seems to be recovering.

Later today, Obama is going to announce "his" idea that the FDIC insure $250K, up from the current $100K. So I have two questions for Senator Obama: One, where will the extra $150K come from in the case that we have a Depression like surge on bank monies and Two, why is it that you think that people who have the opportunity to put $250K in a savings account are the same people who are losing their houses and do not have health insurance? Seriously?

This is exactly the fuzzy thinking I talk about when I express my concerns over this man becoming the next President. There is a real crisis in action and Mr. Obama is looking for ways to protect and enhance the upper middle class and is looking to spend money that is not available to do it.

I saw one of his commercials this morning talking about health care. Now he is suggesting that insurance companies cover pre-existing conditions. Again, who is going to pay for this? The insurance companies are going to pass that cost along to business and private customers. How is that good for us?

I cannot talk with my mother anymore that she is not trying to cram Obama down my throat. I equate it to the Born Again Christan extremist. Of course, I ask her why she is so passionate about the Obama/Biden ticket and she cannot articulate why they would be ok, which reduces our conversation to her telling me that of course I will vote with the Republican party line because I am without the ability to have an open mind. I truly believe that these people would drink the poisoned Kool-Aid without knowing why they are doing it, just because Barack says so. It is bizarre to me. I am just not taken with him and have given him every opportunity to WOW me. He is the boss that takes your idea to the Board and presents it as his own. He is going to raise taxes across the board, that is the only way he will be able to fund all the plans that he touts. People who make $250K are smart enough to protect that money from taxes and that population is not large enough to carry the rest of us on their backs. Open Your Eyes People - Make Him Explain His Math Before You Drink the Kool-Aid.

Debate #1

2008-09-26T19:32:00.000-07:00

I did not want to watch the Debate, but I am so glad I did. It furthered my support for John McCain and proved that without a teleprompter and prepared speech, Barack Obama is a stuttering suit. Obama is ruffled and frustrated and talks in a circle. I have heard over and over this week that his supporters are inspired. I continue to ask what about him inspires them and they cannot answer that question any better than Obama has answered the debate questions this evening.

What makes a junior Senator from Illinois think that he is prepared to lead us in this time? He has not written one piece of legislation and in fact, rather than going to Washington to work on a fix for the financial industry, he went to Debate Camp. By the way, they will have to send him back before we get to Debates 2 through 4.

You got you Nobel Peace Prize, Now Go Away

2008-07-20T15:52:00.000-07:00

So this morning, I was pleasantly surprised by breakfast in bed and a dynamic politically charged Sunday morning. First up, Meet The Press now moderated by Tom Brokaw with former Vice-President Al Gore. Although Brokaw did a great job of hard hitting journalism, he does not seem fully comfortable in the chair once occupied by his great friend. In true form, Al Gore was unable to answer questions beyond the rhetoric that he must be practicing in the mirror each and every day. The best was when Mr. Brokaw asked Big Al what he and Tipper needed with 10,000 square feet for the two of them. Can you say Deer in Headlights?

The Irish are such clear thinkers:

2008-07-15T15:50:00.000-07:00

"We, in Ireland, can't figure out why you are even bothering to hold an election in the United States.

On one side, you have a bitch who is a lawyer, married to a lawyer, running against a lawyer who is married to a bitch who is a lawyer.

On the other side, you have a war hero married to a good looking woman who owns a beer distributorship. That should be No Contest"

Tony Snow Passes

2008-07-12T17:03:00.000-07:00

Former Press Secretary Tony Snow died at 2am this morning in Georgetown, Washington. He was only 54 years old and succumbed to colon cancer, leaving behind a wife and three children. He had a great sense of humor and took on the most rambuncious of reporter. I remember when he left the White House and the "scandel" that swirled around it. Fingers pointing at President Bush and the "devastation" within the White House staff with more resignations to come was the report on the news. The media would have done better to speak of this man's character and I hope in hindsight they regret the mistakes they made reporting on a crumbling administration. Rest In Peace Mr. Snow.

Timothy John Russert (May 7, 1950 – June 13, 2008)

2008-07-10T16:36:00.000-07:00

It has been almost a month since this living legend has passed and I am no less somber about it than I was. I remember the Sundays in which I had my coffee, the tv turned to Meet the Press, and myself poised at the computer awaiting the one comment that would set my fingers blazing on the keyboard with an email addressed to the offender. I spent the last 6 months working on Sundays and missing the brilliance that was Tim Russert. I am grateful that G recorded the Tribute to Tim version of Meet the Press on Father's Day. How ironic and appropriate with his book about his own father, his relationship with Luke, and he as the Father of good political journalism. There is not enough I can say about Tim Russert except that the loss is immeasurable and Meet the Press will never be the same. The caliber of integrity, dedication, and genuine charm this man brought to the masses on Sunday mornings can never be replaced. And to you Tim Russert I say, If it is Sunday, it is Meet the Press and no matter what team is playing from Buffalo or Boston College - Go team Go!

The Invasion of the Body Snatchers

2008-04-19T18:44:00.000-07:00

Or the Democratic National Convention, but what is the difference really? I obviously live in Denver and am less than thrilled about the DNC coming to town. I am supporting the fact that huge "tourist" dollars will be spent in our economy and that every news station in the world will be highlighting the city, but beyond that, this is a nightmare. The funds have not been raised, the hospital in which I work is now the facility of choice in the case of a disaster (and I guess they do not categorize the Dems coming to town as a disaster in their own right), and I am being held hostage as "essential personnel" and cannot take PTO during any portion of the convention. Which is exactly what I had planned on doing - Getting the hell out of dodge.

All in all, I am pretty pleased with the way the Democratic candidates have been duking it out against one another. They have made themselves out to look like childish bullies that cannot be trusted and John McCain is left smelling like a rose. I am not a McCain fan, but he is the GOP candidate and the lesser of all evils still standing in the election. August will be hot in Denver in more ways than one. I will have the opportunity to watch the fight to the death between bitter rivals. I hope that is all the excitement we see here in the Mile High City....I mean, who would want to actually hurt the first black presidential candidate or the first female presidential candidate with a philandering husband, both of which lie so easily, it looks effortless?

And No, I will not waste my time picketing!

Remember How Precious Life Is

2007-12-12T11:02:00.000-08:00

I am so sad and confused by the recent violence that has taken place in Colorado. As many of you know, I am trying to discover my own spirituality and religious beliefs and feel a little more lost on this topic than I have in previous days. I saw Tom Johnson on the Today Show this morning and was extremely touched by his comments surrounding the way his daughter lived. It is ironic that her father begged her to get out of Africa and other dangerous countries and yet her life was taken on U.S. soil, where he felt her to be safest. I cannot bring myself to think about the Works' family in Colorado Springs who lost both of their daughters (18 & 16) on a beautiful Sunday morning simply attending church as a family. It is the type of event that snaps reality back at you and makes you realize how precious life, love, and your family can be. Take nothing for granted. My sympathies go out to the families involved with this tragedy. May you find peace.

60 Minutes of Dinosaurs

2007-11-25T18:20:00.000-08:00

So I am totally psyched about turning on 60 Minutes tonight to find Anderson Cooper as a guest contributor. There are so many reasons to love Anderson Cooper - his mother is Gloria Vanderbilt and I am a child of the 70's, he has had his share of heartache with the death of his father and suicide of his brother, and he is unbelievably talented. I have seen him on Oprah a handful of times talking more about the state of America and third world countries than himself, but he seems intensely modest, sincere, and genuine. I am also psyched that 60 Minutes might be attempting to fight its way out of the prehistoric era that it has secured itself to for all of these years. Although Anderson is a man, he is an unlikely candidate for the old boy's club. So again, I am psyched about Anderson Cooper appearing as a guest and hope that he will become a more permanent fixture. That in itself would lend me the title of 60 Minutes fan!

Holiday Travel

2007-11-21T16:56:00.001-08:00

So NBC News just showed a live shot of the number of airplanes that are in the air, or on runways about to take off. This is something I do not need to see. The airlines are trying to turn planes around within 45 minutes to an hour. OH GAWD - How is there time to gas it up, unload/reload, and make sure something important has not fallen off the damn thing? Oh Yes folks, this is why I do not fly during the holidays. In fact, there is very little I like to do during the holidays because it all comes with too many people, other people's children, and an enormous lack of common sense. A friend of mine told me today that I am going to make a highly successful middle aged person some day. I am not really this grumpy, I just do not like crowds or stupid people! Does this really make me crotchety?

At lunch today I saw a table of military personnel in uniform. This stopped me for several reasons. First of all, I love men in uniform and especially military (well, ok, policemen on their Harley's and firemen in anything do it for me too). Secondarily, there is not a base close to where I was and it struck me as odd. I am always so proud of military troops because I am a good Republican, a proud American, and very patriotic! Thank you all for serving and especially during the holiday season when I know you are desperate to be home with your families.

We all know how I feel about crimes against women and children, it is no secret. What you may not know is that I had the opportunity to go to Aruba to scuba dive this year and refused to go based on the tragedy of Natalie Holloway's death and the way the case has been handled. I am happy that all three of the lying bastards who were originally suspects in this case have been re-arrested with new evidence supporting the right to take them in to custody. Though the information will not be released until Friday, I hope the Holloway family can enjoy this holiday in some small way just knowing that investigators may have something to nail these guys.

Out of the Loop

2007-11-12T08:34:00.000-08:00

It is amazing to me how quickly you can get out of the know. I have been busy trying to dig deep within myself to determine my next professional move, cleaning out rooms of my house, and reading like nobody's business. I have also been sick and so my trips to the gym have been sporadic at best.

I was reading MSN this morning and came across this article about Bad CEO's who walked away, or were fired, with millions. Here is the list:

Supersized CEO exits
Executive Company Walk-away pay
Stanley O'Neal Merrill Lynch $160 million
Philip Purcell Morgan Stanley $43.9 million
Richard Grasso New York Stock Exchange $140 million
Douglas Ivester Coca-Cola $120 million
Robert Nardelli Home Depot $210 million

So the question that everyone is asking is what is wrong with our economy? This is what is wrong with our economy. It is said that beginning with Generation X, the workforce went south. Each and every one of these CEO's are Boomers and I see nothing in the way of work ethic or taking responsibility for their actions. In fact, these Boards are regarding bad behavior and asking consumers to pay the bill. Secondarily, take notice that none of these CEO's are women!

My Mothership Has Landed Once Again

2007-10-20T19:41:00.000-07:00

Ladies and Gentlemen, May I have a moment of silence as my mothership has landed once again in the great state of Colorado - NORDSTROM opens at Cherry Creek Mall today!!!
So the question is whether or not I attended the Grand Opening and although I was invited, I did not go. I do not like to shop with crowds, yes, this includes the holidays. I like to experience the serenity that is Nordstrom at my own pace and without frenzy. This is why I do not like the Half Yearly Sales - Yes, I really said that!

So as exciting as this is, can Colorado support another Nordstrom? I ask because I do not see the economy picking up, but rather slowing down. There are 12 Fortune 500 companies in this town and only a handful of them have any interest in community advancement. Then you take a look at the sales industry and Colorado is considered a soft territory, which is amazing. I am even considering 1)getting out of technology and/or 2)getting out of sales. Of course, this bodes the never ending question - what will I do when I grow up?

Is This An Acceptance Speech?

2007-10-17T21:02:00.001-07:00

Ok, if you have not read Brad Feld's blog - you should! (www.feld.com) I like his thoughts regarding Colorado Innovation Council. He does not mention that our own beloved Su Hawk (CSIA) is a member of the Executive Committee, but he is after all, Brad Feld, and so all is forgiven.

So I love the madKast widget and want to congratulate the guys on their participation at DEMO gala. Doug Ludlow was great and really held his own on the panel I put him in (From Napkin To Market). I was a little nervous, but he really showed his chops when it came to NDA's. The idea of this panel was to gain perspective from a newly formed, newly funded company (madKast), from a self funded and thriving company (EffectiveUI), and gain insight into the "Ah-Ha" moments that companies have moving forward from one of my favorite law firms, Fairfield & Woods. Thought I was desperate to have John Leonard on this panel, he sent his associate, who did well and provided food for thought. I really hope that the panelists and attendees were able to grab hold of at least one take-away.

MocaPay (www.mocapay.com) is another DEMO showcase company and one that I am going to watch closely. In true form, was so excited by their technology that I announced to the CEO that because of this I could stop carrying my credit cards in my bra. Yes indeed folks, I get loony over technology that will - well, allow me to stop carrying my credit cards in my bra when I run into the store for something quick and do not want to carry my entire purse!

Last, but never least, I want to say thank you to GoFast/Jet Pack. Troy Widgery has a really cool story and is quiet and modest personality. The Jet Pack actually flies and is flown by an ex-stuntman (quite frankly, I think he still qualifies as a stuntmen). It is funded by the Go Fast Energy Drink, which kicks Red Bull's ass. It is yummy - and the light is the best!

Can you tell I am getting my second wind about this event? Just in time for the debrief tomorrow and brain storming soon to come. Did I mention that a couple of us want to do a golf tournament next year too? Yes, I am crazy-why do you ask?

Who Is This Silly Girl?

2007-10-16T20:18:00.000-07:00

I saw Ellen Degeneres cry on TV today over a dog that was taken from her friends because she adopted it and then gave it to the family after she realized that the puppy would not integrate with her cats. I thought that was an interesting thing to be devastated over, until I started to get choked up. Don't get me wrong, I do not necessarily care about the dog - I mean, I love animals, but do not get emotional over pets I have never seen. The dog is still living and will most likely go to another family or be guilted into giving it back to Ellen's friends. The thing that effects and affects me is seeing other people sad, unhappy, and crying. I am starting to really feel the effects of other people and their emotions. I genuinely want people to be happy, including my husband and myself.

I have the same strong reaction to weak people who present themselves as sheep, but are truly wolves in sheep's clothing. These are the people who use others and present themselves as good to gain a self-serving advantage. They always have their own agenda and will manipulate any situation to resolve their own expectations. The problem is that they can smell like roses only for so long before the water in the vase becomes rotted.

My point is that I am starting to feel sympathy/empathy as much as I am feel annoyed. I am not a stranger to annoyance, but this whole sappy personality is one to which I have not been introduced!

Take a Weekend Off???

2007-10-13T20:40:00.002-07:00

So here is the email the DEMOgala Steering Committee Received from the Executive Chair of CSIA regarding DEMOgala:

I cannot tell you how many e-mails and phone calls I have received today about how successful the event was. Amazingly I can feel the Intensity, Innovation and Inspiration in each one of them. You, Kirby and the entire team are amazing. There are not enough words to describe how great you and the team are. I am truly humbled and honored to be associated with such a phenomenal team. CSIA has demonstrated that we are the leader for the entire state and industry. And as of this morning, there is no doubt in anyone’s mind. You and the team have not only set the foundation for the next generation of CSIA, but you have executed the tasks to get us there.
Thank you, thank you, thank you cannot be said enough!!!
Now you and the team take a deep breath, have a great weekend and we’ll be ready to go, go, go next week.

See what I mean about the drive and passion and leadership of this organization? The best part about this organization is that the leadership consists of people that inspire each of us to do more, better, faster. It is an honor to a part of this - the 2007 DEMO steering Committee is one that will go down in history and the best part - we are all still in love with one another!

DEMO Recap

2007-10-13T20:40:00.000-07:00

The 2007 CSIA DEMOgala was an enormous success and the largest event in CSIA history, as well as the largest technology event in Colorado in 2007. We are the people that dream big and then drive ourselves to the ends of the Earth to accomplish every one of our crazy ideas. This year it was: a breakfast led by THE Brad Feld with comments and an important industry specific announcement by Gov. Bill Ritter. Congratulations to Su Hawk on her new and IT significant Board position! Next up, the conference that Doug Prom and I CO-Chaired. My biggest fear was that no one would come -0 boy was I wrong. In between the morning and the afternoon sessions, we had a CXO Luncheon that was set up like the Tonight Show with Jon Nordmark, CEO & Founder of eBags, as Jay Leno. He was funny and clever and sincere and did a great job. He interviewed: Kirby Slunaker of MDC Holdings (2007 CSIA DEMOgala Chair & my HERO), Bob Ogdon the CEO of SwiftPage (who was funny and not someone I thought was overly funny before that day - I say this because I am pretty sure the man is not all to fond of me, which is ok), Micki Nelson, CIO of MWH Global (the mother of someone I adore and a powerful, self-confident, authentic woman I admire), Leroy Williams the CIO of Ball Corporation (a good man with high self-esteem), and there are two more, but I am brain dead.

The night was totally amazing. Tim Armstrong was incredibly engaging, entertaining, and without arrogance of any kind. He stuck around to shake hands after the dinner, including mine.

It was a great day!! I am not wearing shoes tomorrow!!

2007 DEMOgala Breakfast Announcement

2007-10-11T20:09:00.000-07:00

GOV. RITTER CONSOLIDATES, REFORMS IT OPERATIONSAND LAUNCHES NEW INNOVATION COUNCIL

Gov. Bill Ritter today launched a comprehensive high-tech initiative that will consolidate and reform state government's fractured Information Technology operations and establish the state's first Innovation Council to spur advances in Colorado's technology sector.

"In state government and in the private sector, the Digital Age of the 21st Century means Colorado must be ambitious, innovative and effective when it comes to maximizing the use of technology," Gov. Ritter announced Thursday. He unveiled the new high-tech package to hundreds of technology industry professionals at the third annual Colorado Software and Internet Association (CSIA) DEMOgala in Denver.

"We can vault Colorado into the nation's technology elite," Gov. Ritter declared, "and we'll do it by using technology to save taxpayers millions of dollars and more effectively deliver services to people all across Colorado. We also will utilize the Innovation Council to expand and grow opportunities for the 3,800 high-tech businesses and 175,000 IT/software employees in this state."

Gov. Ritter issued an "Improving State Information Technology Management" executive order in May, elevating the state's Chief Information Officer to a Cabinet-level position as the first phase in the reform plan.

The second-phase initiatives announced today call for a multi-year IT consolidation that folds state government's decentralized operations into the Governor's Office of Information Technology. This will allow for centralized technology purchasing, spending, planning and asset management. It also will create a statewide enterprise structure, compared with today's ineffective department-by-department model.

An "IT Consolidation Bill" will be introduced in the 2008 legislative session by sponsors Reps. Andy Kerr, Bernie Buescher and Bill Cadman and Sens. Ron May and John Morse to enact the reforms.

"Because of a decentralized information technology structure, Colorado state government uses information technology systems inefficiently," Gov. Ritter said. "This approach has led to redundant purchases, failed or under-performing IT applications, and an inefficient operating environment. Not only does the failure to pool purchases of IT goods and services create significant inefficiencies and unnecessary costs, it leads to greater risks related to security and reliable project performance."

Among the IT redundancies: state government has 38 data centers, while many states have just two or three, the Governor noted.

"Currently within the state's many information technology groups we have a wealth of talented employees who are ready to rise to the challenge," Chief Information Officer Michael Locatis said. "As we undergo a significant change from a highly decentralized and fractured IT environment to a consolidated enterprise model, our goal is to restore and improve basic operations and project performance. I look forward to carrying out Gov. Ritter's vision of transforming state IT into to a highly agile and innovative delivery organization."

Gov. Ritter today also established the state's first Innovation Council, bringing together 34 leaders from around Colorado. The Council is composed of experts from large, small, urban and rural technology businesses, as well as leaders in the venture capital, government, academic and nonprofit sectors. The council will have three primary subcommittees that will:

Assist the state as it reforms and improve its use of information technology;
Develop a strategy for spurring broadband deployment throughout the state, and;
Support state government's economic development efforts for the technology sector.

The council will be co-chaired by venture capitalist Brad Feld, managing director of the Foundry Group; entrepreneur Juan Rodriguez, who founded StorageTek and Exabyte; and national telecommunications policy expert Phil Weiser, who teaches law and telecommunications at the University of Colorado at Boulder and is executive director of the Silicon Flatirons Program.

In addition to Feld, Rodriguez and Weiser, three other tech-industry leaders also will serve on the Council's executive committee: Cathy Fogler of Charter Communications; Su Hawk, president of CSIA; and Lee Kennedy, founder of TriCalyx.

"Our state must develop a robust and ubiquitous broadband infrastructure to support an array of applications that will transform how the people of Colorado work, learn and play," Weiser said. "Deploying broadband to unserved areas of Colorado is a make-or-break issue for the state. We cannot afford to leave Colorado citizens or businesses behind as other states and countries adopt broadband connections and applications that catapult them ahead in the 21st Century economy."

"Technology infrastructure is key for rural Colorado and will affect how we provide education, health care and business opportunities for decades to come," said Council member Audrey Danner, executive director of the Yampa Valley Partners in northwest Colorado. "I am honored Gov. Ritter has invited me to join a group that offers such a broad range of statewide expertise to tackle one of the most important economic-development opportunities facing rural Colorado."

The Innovation Council is expected to hold its first meeting this fall, with periodic recommendations submitted to Gov. Ritter beginning in 2008.

Building a Partnership Beyond Beer

2007-10-09T20:14:00.000-07:00

I was invited to the reception at the Canadian Consultate's office. The reason for their trip and the reception is to provide a win/win bridge for Canadian and Colorado organizations. The Canadian Consulate in Denver coordinated a Trade Mission and arranged for their visit during the CSIA DEMOgala. They hosted one heck of a party, which I would have really taken advantage of if not for all the work still to be done before our event. I want to thank David Smith for the invitation and all of his work towards bringing these organizations to our fair city! He was also charged with begging the guys at SXIP to send their CEO down to speak. The fact that it did not happen says nothing about him and everything about the fact that I only came across Dick Hardt's presentation a few weeks ago. In true style, I shot for the moon and decided I wanted him for the Innovation in Technology Trends Track. Yes, I am crazy, but so getting him next year!

Most Significant Gather of Technology Leaders in Colorado's History

2007-10-04T10:01:00.000-07:00

What do 1 governor, 1 mayor, 13 CEOs, 4 CIOs, 3 CTOs and 2 Ph.D.s have in common? They are but a few of the more than 50 business, technology and civic leaders speaking at the 3rd Annual CSIA DEMOgala 2007. The DEMOgala 2007 Innovation Conference features 20 dynamic sessions across 4 tracks, covering innovation in education, business and technology, as well as creating and launching new innovation.

A few of the DEMOgala Innovation Conference presenters include Luke Beatty of Associated Content, David Cohen of TechStars, Jim Franklin of Oracle, Dr. William Gail of Microsoft, Christian Dwyer of MapQuest, Andrew Macaulay of Level 3 Communications, Greg Reinacker of NewsGator and Troy Widgery of GoFast Sports.

Along with keynote addresses by Tim Armstrong of Google, Brad Feld of Mobius Ventures and the Luncheon CEO/CIO Roundtable moderated by Jon Nordmark of eBags, DEMOgala 2007 represents the most significant gathering of successful business, technology and civic leaders ever assembled in Colorado’s history.

Come Hear the President of Google North America Speak

2007-10-03T13:46:00.000-07:00

Tim Armstrong, President, Advertising and Commerce, North America and Vice President, Google, Inc. will give the evening keynote address at the CSIA DEMOgala on October 11, 2007. Along with Tim Armstrong, CSIA has assembled an unprecedented roster of more than 50 technology, business and civic leaders to present at the DEMOgala Innovation Conference. For example, DEMOgala speakers include Brad Feld of Foundry Group, Dr. William Gail of Microsoft Virtual Earth, Jon Nordmark of eBags, Kevin Survance of MapQuest and JB Holston of NewsGator.

The DEMOgala Innovation Conference is accompanied by the DEMOgala Innovation Showcase where you will be immersed in a first-hand experience of more than 40 of the most innovative Colorado technology companies representing software, aerospace, bioscience, wireless communications, sports technology and more. The innovations these companies showcase are changing the world and DEMOgala provides a unique “early glimpse” into the future.

The concentration of Colorado technology leaders, high-impact knowledge exchange, coupled with the “first look” opportunities for some of the most innovative new technologies and ideas in the market make CSIA DEMOgala 2007 a historic must-attend event. As a proud CSIA Member, I encourage you to attend for the benefit of yourself and your business.

Don't wait! Business happens today and your competition will be there.

For more information and to register for CSIA DEMOgala 2007, go to www.csiaonline.com/2007demogala.htm

Keeping Kids Safe

2007-09-29T22:08:00.000-07:00

My "Little" came downstairs and said "I love you so much Mommy". When I asked her why, she said "Because I know I am safe". That is the meaning of being a parent. Always keeping them safe. Keeping her safe from perverts is such a concern to me. Sadly enough, two teenagers lost their lives this morning in car accident close to where I live. My thoughts and prayers are going out to the families who are forever changed by such tragic events so early this morning.

Chester Arthur Stiles upgraded to Suspect

2007-09-28T18:59:00.000-07:00

Her face has been splashed across the television and internet media, her eyes are haunting as she shows no emotion towards the camera. She looks as if she has extensive experience, except that she is less than five years of age. The police have said that the contents of the tape are the worst things that can happen to a little girl at the hands of an adult male and beyond. I have a good idea what pedophiles are capable of and I cannot go anywhere near this without a burning in my blood. I can actually physically feel my skin turn hot when I look at this man's picture and I feel nothing when I think about the things that should happen to him. Please help find this man - call the police if you have any information. The tape he made is at least a year old, so there are more victims out there and it could be a little girl that you know. Stop this monster!

If You Are Not On This List, You Should Be!

2007-09-20T14:52:00.000-07:00

Thank You to Our DEMOgala Sponsors!

Through their investment, we are able to proudly show off Colorado’s technology community.
Leadership: IHS, Hein & Associates and TEK Systems
Conference Track: MWH Global
International Pavilion: Canadian Consulate’s Office
Co-Sponsors: Cooley/Godward/Kronish, KPMG, HP, ViaWest, Holland & Hart, ProtoTest, Townsend & Townsend, The Ash Group and Richmond American Homes

THESE ARE SOME FUN COMPANIES FOLKS.....

2007-09-20T14:49:00.000-07:00

54 Companies Selected for DEMOgala Showcase

More than 50 of Colorado’s most innovative companies have been selected for the Innovation Showcase. With cutting-edge technologies spanning software, robotics, aerospace, bioscience, wireless communications, sports technology and more, this year’s Innovation Showcase surpasses previous years for both its size and inspiration.

CSIA Announces GOOGLE - WOOO HOOOOO

2007-09-20T14:47:00.000-07:00

For Immediate Release CSIA Media Contact: Su Hawk
September 19, 2007 303.592.4068 Cell: 303.884.9632
su@coloradosoftware.org
Tim Armstrong, President, Advertising and Commerce, North America, Google
To Keynote CSIA DEMOGala October 11
DENVER – September 19, 2007 – Tim Armstrong, President, Advertising and Commerce, North America for Google, will be the keynote speaker for the CSIA DEMOgala on October 11, 2007. The third-annual CSIA DEMOgala is a full day of Colorado technology innovation, conference, and a series of events focused on discussions for nearly 1,000 leaders from Colorado’s advanced technology industry, culminating with the keynote talk by Armstrong.
"We truly are honored to have one of the most influential technology leaders from one of the most successful companies in the world as our keynote speaker for this year’s CSIA DEMOgala," said Su Hawk, president of CSIA. "Tim not only is leading the way for Google’s sales strategy in North America, and Google is leading the way for innovation. We are pleased to be hearing from someone who believes in Colorado as well," she said.
Armstrong serves as current chairman of the board for Denver-based Associated Content. Associated Content is a leading social media publisher and syndication engine, providing brands and publishers with a wide range of quality content generated through its scalable and efficient platform and online publishing showcase company.
The CSIA DEMOgala will feature a showcase of technology demonstrations from 35-40 selected Colorado technology companies, along with an Innovation Conference featuring 20 different programs, workshops and roundtables focused on key issues on innovation on education, business, entrepreneurism and trends. This year the event will also feature an International Pavilion created by the Canadian Consulate’s office, who is hosting a delegation of technology leaders from Canada.
"We created this event to showcase Colorado technology to the world, and with Tim Armstrong representing one of the most visionary companies in technology, the shared ideas and insight will be enormously productive," said John Oechsle, CIO and senior vice president of IHS and 2007 Chairman of the Board of CSIA. "It’s vitally important that CSIA serve as a portal to show off the great companies and innovation of Colorado, especially given that IT/software is fueling the growth of every industry in Colorado and the world," he added.
"Colorado’s entrepreneurial climate is more significant than many imagine, so I’m proud to have been asked to give the keynote talk this year," Armstrong said. "I’m pleased to be participating with CSIA to help promote the hundreds of Colorado technology leaders and companies, while sharing Google’s story with state-wide leaders," he said.
An innovation leader at Google, Tim presides over Google's North American advertising sales and operations teams. His team, located in cities across the U.S. and Canada, provides customers with local partnerships as well as centralized sales and services. They work with some of the world's most widely recognized brands and advertising agencies, as well as some of the fastest growing medium-sized companies.

Busy

2007-09-19T15:15:00.000-07:00

I am overwhelmed this week with events. The DEMO gala is rushing towards me at an alarming rate, I have the Internet Safety Foundation Summit this Friday - which I am so excited about. Ok, I have to come back to this......

Go Big or Go Bitter

2007-09-09T18:38:00.000-07:00

I finished reading Jen Lancaster's first book this weekend and it was both funny and pertinent to my current life. It also brought up concerns for me regarding the current economy and where we are going from here, my lack of savings, retirement, etc., and our spending habits. That being said, I am not nearly as caught up in shoes, purses, and lip gloss as Ms. Lancaster. She has another book (of course I will purchase and read it immediately) and a blog that she infrequently updates. (www.jennsylvania.com) So two comments on the book - First off, I hope Kathleen, Courtney, and Will are unemployed or at the very least under-employed. Second, I hope that Corporate America remembers that there are people out there looking for jobs and are made up of pure drive, talent, and loyalty - and they are not always the people you think they are. The economy is not to the point it was in 2001 and I hope that stays true for the sake of the employees that work hard and are dedicated. That being said to Corporate America, I know there are people out there that call themselves "Consultants". For the most part, this is code for "I am planning on walking in after 9 am, taking a 2 hour lunch, and raping you on an hourly rate." These people screw things up for the real Subject Matter Experts. Ebbs and flows people, ebbs and flows.

So I am finding myself relating to Jen on a variety of levels. I am a driven sales and business woman that does not necessarily like sales. I do not like being sold to and can see through most people that try to push their wears on me. I love to write and yet, have not had the audacity or courage to introduce the real "me" to this blog or submit any pieces to publishers, editors, etc. Ok, so maybe Jen has more (her favorite word) moxie than I. Note to self: add moxie to grocery list.

A Collection of Technology Brilliance

2007-09-07T13:36:00.000-07:00

Save The Date: October 11, 2007

CSIA Presents the DEMO gala Conference, Reception, and Dinner!

It all begins with a keynote breakfast from THE Brad Feld (www.feld.com), continues throughout the day with demonstrations from innovative companies within Colorado and four conference tracks - Innovation in Education, Innovation Creation, Innovation in Business, and Innovative Tech Trends - offering five sessions with SME's in a bevy of areas! The C & Be Seen Reception begins at 5pm, followed by the dinner with a keynote speaker that makes me want to jump up and down clapping my hands. 34 days and counting....Oh My God, the work that needs to be done!

Clinton Sex and Clinton Truth

2007-08-30T15:10:00.000-07:00

I was really excited about the new season of Oprah and logged onto her website to see when I could expect my DVR to start delivering new shows. Her premier is in New York, excellent. I have never been to New York, but I love Chicago, so I am sure I would love New York. But then I see her show on September 4th will have as her guest, BILL CLINTON! It is a re-run, but they are promoting it like he is some sort of prize.

So let me take you back a show in which Oprah had learned that the book James Frey had written, and we all enjoyed, was based on a true story and not necessarily an autobiography.
Oprah: I appreciate you being here because I believe the truth can set you free.
She goes on to scold and berate both Mr. Frey and his publisher for publishing the book as pure memoir.

And yet, she allows this lying, cheating, disgusting man on the same stage to embrace his new book? His book in which he states that he had the relationship with Monica Lewinsky "because he could." Ok, people...seriously, this is when I would have stood up, slapped his chubby face, and ordered him off my stage. The very stage in which Ms. O had made billions of dollars empowering women, talking about diet, good emotional health, blah blah blah. But no, she smiles coyly at him and goes on to ask about Chelsea. For Christ sake Oprah!

Where Do We Go From Here?

2007-08-29T14:13:00.000-07:00

Every morning that I drive my "Little" to school we pass the local firehouse. As we are driving up the street, I tell her we are approaching and tell her to look to see if they are awake and outside. If they are, we usually honk and wave. When we talk about Stranger Danger, I tell her that firemen are good people and if she ever needs anything, she can go to their firehouse for safety. Granted, she is 3 1/2, but they say consistency is key. Maybe one day she will be 12 and afraid and need the assistance of a fireman. So imagine my horror when I see this headline:

Firefighter fired amid child pornography allegations

Now let me just state that the firefighter is in Englewood and not at our local firehouse, but let me also state that Englewood is the city just a little northeast of where we reside. Plus I just cannot believe that I am reading this story. He was a Fire Medic 1 - the highest level of medic - and served as a child safety seat coordinator for two years. This is disturbing on so many levels that I am, and this is astonishing, speechless!

University of Catholicism and the Colorado What?

2007-08-28T19:55:00.000-07:00

So I went to the CBSA Conference today to gain some more in depth insight on the Colorado Bio sciences Economy as it is of interest to me and not an area I am versed in, which embarrasses me. Bio sciences includes Biofuel and Nanotechnology, which is the future of Biotech and just plain cool. The first panel included the Chancellors from both CU and CSU, who had no problem tooting their own respective horns. So let me start with CU. The thing that I find interesting about Catholics is that they genuinely belief that they are the only true right religion. CU is the Catholic university. They are sure that they are the only true right university in Colorado. As "Bud" was tooting his horn, it took everything I had not to stand up and remind him that his football players rape women, his staff wrote hookers off on their expense report, they hire wing nuts as professors, their enrollment is on the decline, they are not competitive when it comes to the tech transfer programs, and because they do not do background checks on their temporary staff, a freshman was stabbed by a mental health patient, with a criminal background, on his first day of school. Well done Buddy!

So then some fool starts to talk about Governor Ritter's Colorado Promise which focuses on tourism, renewable energy, bio sciences, and health care (I think). This is so ridiculous in that Denver is an IT town with a fragile economy. These little projects should be within a 5 year plan, but not the items that should garner focus before all else. But leave it up to the Democrats to put their head in the sand and ignore the imminent threat. Hello, one of the leading markets for foreclosures! Lay-offs are being announced everyday!!! Billy- are you there Billy?

All This And I Can Sing

2007-08-27T11:43:00.000-07:00

It has been over a week since I last posted, but not because I have lost interest in sharing my opinions with you. Oh No, you are not so lucky! In the five months I have been with my company, I have sold the first K-12 school deal, first large university, sold the first ever hospital product, gained audience with three of the largest fortune 500 companies my organization has presented to, closed the largest consulting project to date, and now, done business with an internationally headquartered organization boasting 70,000 employees worldwide.

This latest fete a fete required the quickest trip to Germany I have ever heard of. So let's begin this story with a reminder to all those unaware that I am afraid to fly and have never been on a plane for longer than 3 1/2 hours. Then let's review the location of Germany which is 9 hours away. Silly people always say to me that if I would fly more often then I would not be so afraid to fly. To those people I answer that up until March of this year, I spent 18 months flying every other week for business. Yes, it is an irrational fear, but a fear that is not based on the unknown. I have no control of the plane, the pilots, or the other passengers - and if you saw the news this weekend, you know that the passengers on a Frontier Airlines flight had to subdue a guy who was trying to open the backdoor of the plane in mid flight. So I left on Sunday (the 19th), arrived on Monday (the 20th), presented and negotiated on Tuesday, (the 21st), started home on Wednesday, and actually arrived in Denver on the 22nd. My intention was to update on Friday, but I was a drooling idiot and decided that coming into the office was a good idea! Needless to say, I am back on track and in love with the German people. So much so that I am seriously considering an MBA in International Business. I am the perfect candidate for doing business Internationally because I hold almost no ego, but am good at what I do and cannot be pushed around, am fearless, but always appropriate, and I love to talk to people, rather than talk at people. I just need to find that company that is close to $100 M in revenues, will sponsor my MBA - provided I satisfy a long term contract with them, appreciate what an MBA can do for them strategically, and allow me to live in Denver. I know they will be lining up at the door to take me up on that offer!

Things That Break My Heart

2007-08-18T20:18:00.000-07:00

There has been so much tragedy these past few weeks and today was no exception. A 22 yr old man was killed in the mountains driving down the hill in a seven car pile up that was the result of a trucker not watching where he was going. A truck hit a toddler who is fighting for his life at Children's Hospital. Two firefighters were killed in New York today battling a fire in one the buildings damaged on September 11th. Then there is the mine in Utah, which I cannot even think about. I read on CNN that the mine incident is reaching a "critical moment"? Seriously, we have moved beyond a critical point. Then there is Hurricane Dean, which they can see from space and they are now bringing Endeavour home early, which begs the question can they land with a torn panel?

So all of this is going on and I have to care if Brittany is gay or losing her children as they flash yet another picture of her crawling her drunk ass into a car. At least she wore panties! And discussions about Michael Vick, who needs to just go to jail - one year per dog. There are real people having real problems that bring civil people to tears. Practice gratitude!

Sex Offenders - 2nd chance is one too many!

2007-08-16T14:37:00.000-07:00

Registered sex offender accused of sexually assaulting boy on www.9news.com
Longmont Police arrested 62-year-old Frank James Gutierrez after the boy's mother told police she had come home from work and caught Gutierrez sexually assaulting her son in the living room of their apartment. Gutierrez is a registered sex offender and was already listed on the Longmont Police Web site. He first registered with the police in November 2005 after he was convicted of sexually assaulting a 9-year-old girl in San Diego, California.

Seriously, when will this stop and why do we not have stiffer penalties for the sickos that hurt children in any way, shape, or form? How ridiculous and naive are those that think these people can be rehabilitated? When has that worked in the past? What was this little boy's mother thinking leaving her son alone and giving this pervert access to him. It is our responsibility as parents to protect our children, to raise them as healthy, strong, honest people with integrity.
We are not doing that on many levels, this being the most heinous. I just cannot get past this kind of thing and really think they should be put down like rabid dogs. Don't challenge me on this one, just agree to disagree if you are demented enough to do so!

Shame on You Scott Bemis

2007-08-15T15:20:00.000-07:00

Ok, you know that the integrity of an awards banquet is in question when one of the judges is also a finalist, as is a Sales Rep from a failing dot com company. However, the keynote speaker, Elbra Wedgeworth, Chief Government & Community Relations Officer at Denver Health, was awesome. But here was my dilemma. Ms. Wedgeworth grew up in government housing in Denver and has worked her way into many heavy hitting roles within Colorado. Applaud here. She was the woman who single-handedly got the DNC (Democratic National Convention) to come to Colorado. I cannot applaud until she says that 15,000 hotel rooms are already booked. Ok, applaud. Good job - Go Girl! Then she says, the next President of the United States could be nominated in our very town. I sit. Everyone around me is clapping. I know some of these women and know very well they have GOP cards. I smile and sit very still. It could be the first woman or the first African American leader of the land. I sit very still. Ok, I applaud the achievement, I know what it means to the Colorado economy, plus we took it from New York, but do not for a minute think I am supporting the Dems, especially Billary. Should I have done something different here?

Ok, so like you care, but:
Congratulations To The Finalists of 2007 Outstanding Women In Business
Banking and Finance (this group I am ok with and congrats to the winner, Patty Fontneau)
Patty Fontneau, The IMA Financial Group
Robin Heller, The Western Union Co.
Debbie Trujillo, KeyBank
Communications
Wendy Greenwald, The SolutionPR
Laura Love, GroundFloor Media
Martha Rubi, Hispanic Yellow Pages of America - Winner of the award and longest acceptance speech
Consultants
Sandra Scanlon, Scanlon Consulting Services Inc.
Andrea Shpall, Polk Majestic Travel Group
Stephanie Ursini, Capital Momentum LLC - Winner and this is when I left
Health Care
Kathryn Paul, Delta Dental of Colorado
Bev Sloan, The Denver Hospice
Monika Valentine, OccMed Colorado
High-Tech and Telecommunications
Larissa Herda, Time Warner Telecom
Laura Sankey, Qwest Communications International Inc.
Vicki Steere, Jobing.com (So this is why I left, are you kidding me with this? So much talent in our market and we come down to a Sales Rep?)
Jean Yancey NAWBO Award - Small (I love Jean Yancey!)
Kathryn Arbour, Capabilities
Heather Gallien, Ide-Force
Stacey Sepp, Xstatic Public Relations
Jean Yancey NAWBO Award - Large
Carol Coover-Clark, Coover-Clark & Associates Inc.
Jennifer Jasinski, Rioja and Bistro Vendome
Lara Merriken, Larabar
Mile High Leaders
Kim Calomino, Built Green Colorado
Stephanie Prosenjak, Cherry Creek Dance Inc.
Lynn Utter, Coors Brewing Co.
NAWBO Member of the Year
Kathryn Arbour, Capabilities
Karen McCormack, Denver Rubber Co.
Peggy Sundstrom, Sundstrom & Associates
Nonprofits and Public Entities
Luella Chavez D'Angelo, The Western Union Co.
Kersten Hostetter, Micro Business Development
Robin Wise, Junior Achievement Rocky Mountain Inc. (Seriously?)
Professional
Barbara Kelley, Kamlet Shepherd & Reichert LLP
JoAnn Shea, CH2M Hill
Maureen Witt, Holland & Hart
Real Estate and Construction
Dana Crawford, Urban Neighborhoods
Caroline Hoyt, McStain Neighborhoods
Kimberly Smith, Avenue West Corporate Housing

Girl Power

2007-08-11T14:40:00.000-07:00

Last week was a blur and I am afraid that it will be the status quot for the time being. I am working on a huge project as a semi Project Manager, chasing down the prospects on my forecast for August, may have to go to Germany to close a deal in the coming weeks, and am feeling a bit of panic surrounding the success of the CSIA DEMO gala. Now I say that about the DEMO because everything CSIA does is a class act. I have sent out email to some of the most influential, intelligent, and successful people in town to gain advice and clear direction, but I am not guaranteed any of their time as of yet.

The most exciting thing planned for this week thus far is the Denver Business Journals Outstanding Women in Business 2007 Luncheon. Su Hawk, my friend and mentor, has been nominated, but feels confident that she has not won. Whether or not DBJ thinks so, Su is a huge winner in my book and a woman that Denver should be proud to showcase. Secondarily, I am excited about this event because it is an opportunity to acknowledge the success and achievement of talented women. Go Girls!

Western CIO Forum, CSIA Wine Tasting, and more

2007-08-06T17:03:00.000-07:00

Last night began the Western CIO Forum. I spent today high atop the Pinnacle Club located in downtown Denver listening to SME CIO's from North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Washington State, the Federal Government, and Colorado. Governor Bill Ritter kicked off the events, so it is nice to see that he is not blowing off every IT Event in Colorado. Well done Billy! The subject material is over my head, though I understood the business case presentations and the security portion. I am there in support of CSIA as they are co-sponsors as well as to meet the CIO's from the Western States. All in all, it was a good use of my time and I met some interesting people. Lunch was great in that I got to catch up with my friend Carolyn Duffy of Hein & Associates. If you ever need Accounting, CPA, Audit, or M&A assistance, they are the people to call. Tomorrow is the remainder of the program and John Oeschle, CIO - IHS, is speaking and I am excited about that. He is one of those interesting, intelligent, accomplished, but highly over-committed people that you never get enough of. I am honored to know a few of those personally with Kirby Slunaker being another.

Thursday night is the CSIA Wine Tasting at the Governor's Mansion. I am embarrassed to say that this is not a CSIA event that I have ever attended. The worse part is that each year my friend and ex-boss, Jeff Carr, donates his wine, which I love. Aimee was nice enough to remind me that I had not registered for the event, but it is on my list of things to do once I am back in the office tomorrow.

Julie Aigner-Clark was on the 9News Your Show yesterday. She is amazing in that the one time teacher decided to be a stay at home mother with her children and founded Baby Einstein because there was nothing on the market that stimulated her children with beautiful things, art, and music. Then she sold it to Disney. Oh brother. I could not come up with such innovation if it hit me in the head. She truly is amazing and I would love to know her. She is a breast cancer survivor and has started a company with John Walsh to teach children how to stay safe called Safe Side (www.safesidedvd.com). Truly amazing!

Colorado Biz and Not Just the Magazine!

2007-08-03T16:09:00.000-07:00

I have a passion for Colorado and all things leading to the success of Colorado as a market. Maybe it is that I do not ever want to have to leave this town because I cannot make a living here. There are a couple of shout-outs that I feel are due, or past due in that they support the growth that our market needs and highlights the innovation within Colorado.

TechStars (http://www.techstars.org/) is an amazing concept founded by:

David Cohen

Brad Feld (http://www.feld.com/), who is completely brilliant, down to Earth, and interesting even to non tech types on his blog

Jared Polis, who founded Blue Mountain Arts, which I love, and is running for public office (http://www.jaredpolis.com/)

David Brown

Their concept gives opportunity to innovation in the form of seed funding, advice/mentoring, and connections. Best of all, they require the recipients to live and breathe in Boulder. I lay in bed at night trying to create something that would allow me access to these guys on a regular basis, and yet, a sales monkey I remain! Well done, well done indeed!

Although I do love ColoradoBiz magazine, this shout-out is for the Best Companies to work for 2007. Gone are the days when we started drinking in the office at noon, worked until 3pm on Fridays, had company picnics on the lawn once a week, or enjoyed any of the hundreds of perks that the late 90's introduced us to as a workforce, but obviously there are companies in our grand city that know a thing or two about unique benefit offerings and appreciate their employees through deeds and not just words. You can find the list at http://www.coloradobizmag.com/, as well as register for celebratory luncheon.

Last, but by far never ever least in my book, is CSIA (Colorado Software and Internet Association) http://www.coloradosoftware.org/. There are not words to describe the exhausting and tireless work done by these folks for technology in Colorado. Not just software organizations or Internet organizations, but all technology! The DEMO gala is coming up in October, so if you have a cool sexy technology that you can showcase to 850-1250 attendees, get yourself nominated in a red hot hurry! There will be a conference this year, which is largely exciting, and an awesome key note speaker - but I am sworn to secrecy thus far. CSIA has also partnered with CSU for the CSIA CSU Inspire to Innovate Technology Scholarship and we are actively fundraising. Our partnership with not only CSU, but DSST and Adams County School District provides us with the opportunity to introduce technology as a career path to the young minds of our state, grow the Colorado talent pool, and introduce amazing companies in which they can intern.

I have to thank Su Hawk for allowing me the opportunity to grow both professionally and personally though the volunteer work I am afforded with CSIA. Oh where do I start when it comes to Su Hawk, professional, thoughtful, intelligent, driven, passionate. I cannot articulate the respect and admiration I feel for this powerhouse of a woman. I wrote the following about her in a nomination form:

The impact of such a dynamic woman reaches out to business, education, government, law, the arts, public service, and technology, to name a few. The measurement of her reach is in her ability to make things happen and she always has a line of volunteers ready to turn direction into action. Under the leadership of Su Hawk, the CSIA DEMOgala of 2006 was the first corporate event to highlight the achievements in a real-world application of college students and many corporations sponsored the attendance of high school and college students, counselors, deans, and other education representatives. From the CSIA Public Policy and Economic Development Committee, an Education Committee has formed through Su’s leadership and dedication to the attention towards growing IT talent within our great state and beginning the process earlier in a student’s education.

Su Hawk is impressive because of her leadership, her role modeling, and as an agent of change, she is breaking new ground. She is a woman that treats everyone she encounters with dignity and respect, even faced with a situation in which it is not reciprocal. Su Hawk is the definition of “Bold” and I am very proud to know her and to serve as one of her many volunteers.

If you know her, please congratulate Su Hawk as a Denver Business Journal "Outstanding Woman in Business" nominee for 2007. The award luncheon is August 15th and if she does not win, it is because someone is asleep at the wheel. If you do not know her, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR? Introduce yourself, and then congratulate her!

Andrew Romanoff Announces His Candidacy For.....

2007-08-01T10:00:00.000-07:00

From Mr Romanoff's very own website:

"I ran for office because I wanted to make it possible for every Coloradan to enjoy the same kind of basic opportunities my mom and dad gave me: a solid education, a steady source of health care, and a safe place to live. I believe those goals are within our reach."

So ask me where the Speaker is today, come on, you know you want to ask! Wait for it......
China, and no that is not like the People's Republic of Boulder for those of you who are Colorado-centric.
Here is his blog entry from Monday, July 30th:

"I'm in Beijing (14 hour time difference from Colorado) with two dozen other young political leaders from around the US; half are Democrats, half Republicans.We met today with officials from the State Council Information Office and asked them why China continued to sell weapons to the Sudanese government, at the risk of tarring the Beijing Games as the "Genocide Olympics." The minister said that China hoped to resolve the Darfur issue and was working toward that end. We'll have a meeting at the Foreign Ministry on Wednesday.We also met with environmental advocates and discussed ways the US and China could collaborate on climate change -- a subject of mutual concern. "When it comes to the environment," one advocate said, "there is no (purely) local interest."

Seriously Andy, is this the best use of your time? In case you have forgotten let me break down the local news for you:

Highest Foreclosure Rates
CSAP scores unsatisfactory
Many Coloradoans are still without sufficient Health Care

and these three items speak to why you ran for office! Are Mom and Dad proud?
Let's now talk about the economy and what you are doing to bring jobs to Colorado, or entice Fortune 500 companies to open offices in our market, or why neither you nor Governor Ritter extended a welcome or thank you to the Microsoft Global Partner Convention that brought over 10,000 people to Denver.

Right now Andy, you are the HOA President that wants to beautify the neighborhood rather than deal with the drunk wife, slut daughter, and paroled son in his own house. So let's call your little trip to China what it is - a vacation. There are more important people than you jumping up and down about the "Genocide Olympics" and if you really have it in your mind that the Chinese are taking a long look at themselves because a Democrat from Colorado has shown up on their doorstep, then you are going to need a bigger hat and a mirror that reminds you that you are not the fairest of them all.