Youth-Owned Colorado Businesses to be Honored September 15th

Aug. 25, 2011 - PRLog -- Despite a struggling economy, 9 unique Colorado businesses are succeeding – and they’re all owned and operated by kids age 21 and under.  The young entrepreneurs behind these businesses will be honored at the 10th Annual Celebration for Young Entrepreneurs event at Denver’s Seawell Grand Ballroom on September 15.  

Young business owners from across Colorado applied for cash awards in this year’s competition. From each age category, one winner and two finalists will be presented checks at the dinner and awards ceremony.  In addition, each winner will be paired with a Presenting Mentor – a prominent businessperson who will present their award and provide support and advice through the year.


2011 Finalists:

6-11 year olds:      Flour Gal  - Lyla Padden (11), catered cupcakes made from scratch
Outside the Box - Tessa McEvoy (11), hand-crafted origami gift boxes and ornaments
The Dessert Company, LLC – Miles Louison (10), colorful and yummy desserts made to look like sushi boxes

12-15 year olds:    A&G Fused Glass  - Andrew Breeling (13) and Garrett Breeling (11), hand-made fused glass coasters, night lights, pendants, rings and ornaments
Buttons ‘r Knots? – Natalie Merrill (12), beaded hand and foot jewelry for all fashionistas
Everything Girls Inc. - Mia Pelaez (14), Salina Haville (15) and Cheyenne Costa (15), affordable entertainment and parties for young girls, including nail painting, cake decorating, and hair accessorizing

16-21 year olds:   Fragile Glory Impressions - Mary Sorteberg (18), greeting cards and print made from original art work, using colored pencil, watercolor, and oil and acrylic paints


Sag Straps – Jay Sayre (18), durable, modern, creative suspenders custom-designed for active individuals, especially aimed at skiers and snowboarders
Sew Creative - Rachelle Jones (19), unique Western wear for ladies looking to fill the gap between every day and formal attire


2011 Presenting Mentors:
   Linda Childears, President and CEO, Daniels Fund
   Linda Enstrom, Denver Area Manager, Enstrom Candy
   Patrick Quinlan, CEO, Rivet Software

About Celebration for Young Entrepreneurs and Young Americans Center
Celebration for Young Entrepreneurs is a business competition and fundraiser that benefits the programs of Young Americans Center for Financial Education, a nonprofit charity that reaches more than 45,000 youth every year through hands-on programs and real-life experiences that develop financial literacy in youth. Visit www.yacenter.org to learn more about Young AmeriTowne, International Towne, Get aHead for Business, Young Americans Bank and other programs.