January E-Newsletter
Opportunities Are Knocking!    January 2010
In This Issue
Advertising Special
Letter From the President
Company Profile
Welcome New Board Members
Upcoming Events
CORA NEWS
Economic News
Past Event
Member's Corner
Alliance Française Event
2010 Event Calendar
Quick Links
Greetings!
 
Happy New Year!  Do you have a vision of what you want to accomplish this year?  It's 2010 and together, we can make it a great year for your business.  There are multiple opportunities knocking at your door!  At the FACC, we are continually working to improve our events and services for our members and the local business community.  This year promises to be an exciting and educational one with plenty of opportunities to network, to learn and to grow your business.  We encourage you to view our event calendar on our website and mark your schedules well in advance!  This will increase your ability to take advantage of everything that we have to offer you this year to promote your business and enhance your marketing strategies.

Wishing you the best for 2010!

- The French-American Chamber of Commerce

Advertising Opportunity
2010 Advertising Special!
Advertise in the FACC 2010 Membership Directory AND on the FACC Website and receive a 35% discount*!
Membership Directory ad rates start as low as $60. For more information, click here.
Website rates start as low as $45. For more information, please click here.
 
*35% discount applies only to the Membership Directory ad, not the Website ad. Offer good through Friday, January 15, 2010.
 
To reserve your space, contact Angela via email or at 303-695-7818 x102
Letter From the President
Dear Members and Friends,
 
Thanks to Virginie, Angela, Sara, our Board of Directors, our Members, and all our friends, I can report that 2009 was a great year for FACC! 
 
By every significant measure, we surpassed not only the previous year, but also our 2009 forecasts - record number of programs and attendees, record results for Beaujolais & Beyond and L'esprit de France, and, taken together with our new activity, the Colorado/Rhone-Alpes Economic Development Partnership, record Membership results.
 
The year 2009 saw our dream of developing a proactive and substantive cross-border  development activity with a major region in France become a reality.  The Colorado/Rhone-Alpes Economic Development Partnership (CORA) was formally launched on January 1, 2009.  
 
Our research in 2008 led us to conclude that the sectors offering the greatest opportunities for concrete results are renewable energy - solar and smart grid - energy efficiency, green buildings, and software/IT.  Our experience in 2009, including hosting and leading delegations between Colorado and Rhone-Alpes, has demonstrated that these were the right choices. 
 
I am so proud of our team.  When the economic crisis raised its ugly head, it didn't stand a chance against the spirit, competence, and dedication of Virginie, Angela, and Sara.
 
On behalf of us all at FACC and CORA, our best wishes for the New Year.
 
 
Bob Snyder
President
 
Member Company Profile
Fairfield and Woods, P.C. 
Fairfield and Woods, P.C. celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2009.  Throughout the firm's history, its lawyers have concentrated on meeting the needs of its clients, the Colorado community, and, now, the global community.  We provide a broad range of legal services in the traditional areas of corporate, real estate, litigation, and wills and trusts; as well as in the areas needed to support today's important initiatives:  GreenTech, business succession, intellectual property, and finance.

The firm is pleased to represent many of the familiar names in Colorado business.  In addition, we represent international businesses, including software companies involved in distribution and development throughout the European Union and Australia.
We recognize the importance of supporting businesses through the Greater Denver area, so our lawyers are active in the Adams County Economic Development, Aurora Economic Development Counsel, Jefferson Economic Counsel, and the Denver Metro Economic Development Counsel. 
 
We take a particular interest in the new industries that are contributing to Colorado's economic vitality.  In the summer of 2009, Fairfield and Woods, P.C. took a leading position in starting the CleanLaunch renewable energy incubator.  The Incubator's mission is to stimulate the development and success of early-stage companies who will provide the next generation of clean, renewable, and efficient energy technologies.

The Colorado not-for-profits and charities that we support are as diverse as our employees.  Our francophiles are active in FACC, CORA, and l'Alliance Française de Denver.  Others are active in the British and the German chambers and the World Trade Center of Denver.  Our lawyers serve on the boards of both CSIA: Colorado's Technology Association and Colorado Bio Science Association.  We also support the Kempe Foundation, Rocky Mountain Food Bank, I Have a Dream Foundation, Denver Active 20/30, Colorado Business Committee for the Arts, the DPAC, and the Cherry Creek Arts Festival.

"A client is a friend with a problem," said Charles J. Beise, a long-time Fairfield and Woods, P.C. director.  We live by his words.  We treat our clients, old and new, as our friends and support them in their endeavors. 

Contact:
Susan Fisher

sfisher@fwlaw.com
303-830-2400
www.fwlaw.com
 
Welcome New Board Members
Leadership Additions
The FACC is happy to announce that two great leaders in our community have now also joined the leadership for our organization by being voted on to the Board of Directors.  Please join us in welcoming them as we value their contributions and expertise.

Susan Brushaber - Law Office of Susan J. Brushaber, P.C.

Susan Fisher - Fairfield and Woods, P.C.
 
FACC News and Upcoming Events
RodeoInternational Business and Rodeo Day
Friday, January 15
Make your reservations now for the 11th Annual International Business and Rodeo Day, an exciting evening of international networking and entertainment at the National Western Stock Show. In its 104th year, the stock show continues to attract overseas visitors and provide global visibility for Colorado by offering a look into the important business of local and global ranching and agriculture.

Where: National Western Club, Hall of Education,
4655 Humboldt Street
Who: Organized by the World Trade Center Denver and the Consular Corps Colorado
Time: Buffet and Networking at 5:00 p.m., Rodeo at 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $35 for FACC members; $45 for non-members; $30 for children ages 3-11
RSVP*: Download the Registration Form.  Be sure to mention the FACC to receive the discounted rate.

*No registrations, cancellations or refunds after Friday, January 8.
**Please note that this is not an event organized by FACC and we are not taking reservations for this event.

Visit our website for more information.
 
Skill Building Business Breakfast
"Networking Made Easy"
Thursday, January 28
Haven't joined us in a while?  We are excited to announce that our Small Business Roundable events of 2009 have evolved into Skill Building Business Breakfasts for 2010!

Want to be more visible, get more clients, or establish better relationships? Networking is an outstanding way to do that. Cindy Rold is co-author of "99 Networking Nuggets" and co-founder of "The Networking Gurus", the preeminent newsletter of networking know-how and venues in Denver. Cindy was not born knowing how to network. In fact, she was so reserved when she was younger that she couldn't even ask a librarian for help in a library. Today, Cindy is comfortable talking to strangers whenever she chooses. She will share ideas and techniques that can help you be a better networker, whatever your current comfort level is with networking.

When: Thursday, January 28
Time: 8:30 - 10:30 a.m.
Where: Alliance Française de Denver
Cost*: Free for FACC members only, $10 all others (Includes coffee & light breakfast from AmiCuisine).  Click Here to become an FACC member!
RSVP: You must RSVP in advance. Call 303-695-7818 x102 or register online by Monday, January 25.  No Refunds will be given after January 25.  Click here to see our Refund and Cancellation policies.

*Reciprocal memberships do not apply for free entry to this event.

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors:

AmiCuisine    Alliance Francaise
  
Mark Your Calendars - February Euro Networking
Tuesday, February 9

Join the French-American, German-American and the Swedish-American Chambers of Commerce, the British-American Club and the World Trade Center for an evening of international networking.
 
February's event is being organized by the Swedish-American Chamber of Commerce.  The location will be announced soon.  Visit our website for more details.
 
Serge BellangerMourning the Loss of Serge Bellanger
It is with great sadness and sense of loss that the French-American Chamber of Commerce, New York, announces the death of its longstanding President, Serge Bellanger.  Mr. Bellanger was a pillar of the French-American community, a dedicated ambassador for strong French-American relations and a consummate professional, whose tireless work ethic, guiding wisdom and commitment to all of the many professional and philanthropic causes he supported will be sorely missed.

Many have issued statements saluting his influential contributions to French-American relations, including Christine Lagarde, French Minister of the Economy, Industry and Employment, and also Anne-Marie Idrac, Secretary of State of Foreign Trade.  Mr. Bellanger was President of l'UCIFFE for many years, among other things.

Click here to read statements (in French) issued by Ms. Lagarde and Ms. Idrac.

Click here to read the entire statement issued by the FACC New York.
 
New Member Privilege
As part of our Member Privileges Program, FACC members can now take advantage of a 5% discount on purchases made at "Frog du Jour", a website selling a variety of French products.

Frog du Jour

Current members need to access and log in to the "Members Only" section of our website to obtain the coupon code.
 
CORA News
 CORA Logo

So What is CORA Anyway?
Colorado Rhône-Alpes Economic Development Partnership.
Mission: To facilitate crossborder investment between Colorado and the Rhône-Alpes region.
No other European region and US state have as much in common! 
Priority sectors in common include:
renewable energy, IT/software, bioscience, nanotechnology research and micro/nano-electronics.  This partnership makes sense and we had a great year in 2009!

CORA In The News: Article (in French) that appeared on November 6, 2009 in "Les Affiches de Grenoble et du Dauphine" following the October 2009 Delegation visit to Grenoble-Isère.  Click here to read the full article.
 
Economic News
Colorado Innovation Investment Tax Credit (CIITC)
Beginning January 1, 2010
This information is being sent to organizations and individuals throughout Colorado to announce a new State of Colorado income tax credit that begins on January 1, 2010. 

CIITC provides an income tax credit for investing entities that make investments during calendar year 2010 in small, innovative Colorado companies that are involved in research and development or manufacturing of new technologies, processes, and/or products. 

This program has an annual limit of $750,000 and applications for tax credits are processed on a "first come, first serve" basis beginning on January 1, 2010.   It's important to note that no additional tax credits will be issued once the annual limit is reached so eligible applicants should take care to apply as soon as possible. The tax credit is equal to 15% of the investment up to a maximum tax credit of $20,000 per taxpayer id.  The maximum tax credit amount for the entire program for the 2010 tax year is $750,000. 

Fact Sheet
Application Package

COEDIT

For more information, please contact Roland Erickson at the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade at 303-892-3840.
  
Doing Business 2009 2009 "Doing Business In France"
The Invest in France Agency (AFII) has produced the 2009 edition of its publication "Doing Business in France". This guide is aimed at the senior managers of international businesses and presents the key legal, fiscal and employment legislation applying to international companies when they locate operations in France. It outlines the reforms implemented in the last two years to simplify tax regulations, promote R&D and attract talents and expertise to France.

Click here to download the publication.
 
Past Events
Christkindl Last Euro Networking of 2009
On Thursday, December 10 the final Euro Networking of 2009 was held at the Christkindl Market in downtown Denver. As always, there was an eclectic mix of nationalities in attendance from the German-American, French-American and Swedish-American Chambers of Commerce, the British-American Club and the World Trade Center. Over 70 guests enjoyed a delicious buffet that included traditional German holiday food & drinks. It may have been cold outside, but inside the warming tent,
discussions were lively!
 
Member's Corner
Central City Opera Presents:
Central City Opera - Smooth Operator Logo 
Characters you love to hate take center stage in Central City Opera's "Smooth Operator," a concert featuring some of the most beautiful arias and duets ever written, along with funny, jazzy, finger-snapping numbers.
 
Two public concerts of "Smooth Operator" will be performed during January:
 
January 10 at Boulder Valley Unitarian Universalist Fellowship
January 28 at Cherry Hills Community Church in Highlands Ranch
 
For more information call 303-292-6500 or visit www.centralcityopera.org.
 
Boeuf Bourguignon Dinner with French Wine Pairings
The American Institute of Wine & Food (AIWF) along with Indulge French Bistro invite you to join us:

Sunday, January 31 at 5:00 p.m.
AIWF logo
Indulge French Bistro
4140 W. 38th Ave.
Denver, CO 80212
$55 per person (includes tax and gratuity)
 
 ***48 hour Cancellation Notice Enforced***
Limited seating available
 
More info call 303-333-2378 (AIWF Colorado Chapter Information)
 
For the menu, to make reservations and for more details, click here.
Remember to mention that you heard about this through the FACC!
The Ultimate Resource For Colorado Cleantech
Denver-based CORE (Connected Organizations for a Responsible Economy) is pleased to announce the publication of the 2009 Colorado Cleantech Cluster Analysis and Map.  An indispensable tool for cleantech companies and related organizations throughout the State, the Analysis is now available for purchase and download, along with the Map.

As the first comprehensive cleantech study of its kind in Colorado, it enables you to:
1. Learn the 10 strategic actions Colorado must take to build this industry
2. Find over 800 Colorado cleantech organizations - or add yours to it
3. Understand the impact of the cleantech industry on Colorado's economy

Whether you're a buyer of cleantech services, or a potential investor, supplier or even a prospective employee, the 2009 Colorado Cleantech Analysis and Map have the information you need to get to the next level.

Read Executive Summary or Table of Contents
Visit the Cluster Map
Purchase and download the study instantly, click here
 
The World Tea Fair
Join the Rocky Mountain region's oldest international school (DMIS) for its 8th annual celebration of tea, the world's drink. Learn more about other cultures from tea experts. Sample an array of teas and teatime treats in a vibrant and educational setting offering fun for everyone.

World Tea FairThe World Tea Fair
Denver Montclair International School
2:00-5:00 p.m., Sun., Jan. 31st
DMIS Gymnasium
206 Red Cross Way

Cost: $10, adults. $5, ages 3-17.*
Tickets: Reserve yours at either (303) 340-DMIS (3647) or info@dmischool.com

*If you attend the DMIS Open House from 1:00-2:00 p.m., admission to the World Tea Fair is free!
 
For more information, please visit our website at www.dmischool.com.
 
Amélie Company Hires New Creative Director
Amélie Company announces Paul Sugget has joined the team as creative director. With over 13 years of international advertising and marketing experience at some of the top and most sought-after agencies, Suggett brings a wealth of creative ability to the agency.
 
Benoit Guin, Amélie Company principal says "Paul's background and profile were exactly what I was looking for-his experience at top advertising agencies, strong concepting ability, international perspective and original writing style are a great complement to the team. Creative vision, passion and dedication were important assets for me to add real value to the agency-Paul fits this description perfectly."
 
Dish Network French Bouquet
DISH Network is now offering the best French channels at unprecedented low prices!

French Bouquet
 
French Bouquet, the best value for French TV, includes the popular channel TV5Monde, Eurochannel, premieres all of the classic and latest European movies, euronews which gets you updated news from a European perspective, Afrotainment for African programming and TRACE TV to enjoy the latest of urban music - all of this for only $19.99/month or also available a la carte.
 
Call us at 1-888-483.3887 for more information.
 
InsureMoi Logo Assurance Santé Expat
Vous venez d'arriver aux Etats Unis et vous
recherchez une assurance santé entre autre?
 
Je represente les AGF/ Allianz et je vous etes elligibles pour une assurance santé Expat.  Je m'appelle Didier Chaumillon et je vis aux USA depuis 1993. J'ai mon agence d'assurance à Boulder, Colorado depuis 2003 et je peux vous aider à vous proteger efficacement aux Etats Unis.
 
Auto, Maison, Protection civile, Santé, business, assurance vie.
 
Appelez moi au 303-449-1583 pour une consultation gratuite.
 
Didier Chaumillon
 
Alliance Française Event
2010 Tour de France Dining Event
Travel through France one restaurant at a time. You are invited to join us each month, beginning in January 2010, as the Alliance Française salutes Denver restaurants that have supported us! We begin our Tour with special friend Crêpes n' Crêpes.
 
Good food, good company, good ambiance - all it takes to celebrate the beginning of the year French style. Dinner at Crêpes n' Crêpes will include soup/salad, savory and dessert crêpes, wine and coffee.

When: Thursday, January 21st, Cash bar 6:30 pm with dinner at 7:00 pm
Where: Crêpes n' Crêpes
1512 Larimer (downtown Denver in Writer's Square)
Cost: $32 members, $36 non-members
(includes: meal, 1 glass of wine, tip and tax)
 
RSVP required: Call 303.831.0304 or Buy Online