The Business Times Volume 29 Issue 2

THE BUSINESS T IMES News JANUARY 20-FEBRUARY 2, 2022

Trends Safer Contributors spaces

THE DEFINITIVE SOURCE FOR GRAND JUNCTION BUSINESS NEWS SINCE 1994

In this issue n Initiating event

2

A conference set up to offer convenience and affordability to participants is set to return in February to Grand Junction.

n Collective effort

VOLUME 29, ISSUE 2

THEBUSINESSTIMES.COM

Opinion Business Briefs 5 Business People Almanac

St. Mary’s Hospital plans to turn over its blood collection operations to an independent services provider.

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n Rec director

A new director has been named to lead state efforts to promote the outdoor recreation industry in Colorado.

n More upbeat

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Colorado business leaders are more upbeat heading into a new year, according to the latest quarterly survey.

n Construction firm helps customers with unique needs. Page 2 Lori Siegesmund, left, and Sue Hayes at SafeSpace Builders help people with disabilities as well as seniors stay in their homes.

n Review reviews

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This year, refocus and flip performance reviews to better understand what employees need and want.

n Peak experience

23

What does it take to endure uphill climbs?

An accomplished climber offer tips from the death zone.

n Departments Almanac Business Briefs Business People Contributors News Opinion Trends

26 24 26 17-21 2-14 22-23 15-16

Business Times photo by Phil Castle

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THE BUSINESS T IMES News The Business Times

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January 20-February 2, 2022

Trends Event offers convenience, Contributorsaffordability Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac Grand Junction conference to explore the latest trends in marketing and communication Phil Castle

The Business Times

Lori Siegesmund, left, serves as president and owner of SafeSpace Builders and 579 Construction, while Sue Hayes works as director of marketing. The firm modifies spaces to accommodate people with disabilities as well as help seniors stay in their homes. (Business Times photo by Phil Castle)

Safer spaces Construction firm “empowers people to make choices”

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ori Siegesmund runs a construction company that offers a range of services — everything from framing and insulation to drywall and specialty ceilings.

But she’s especially excited about a new service that not only further diversifies the operation, but also helps customers with unique needs. “This empowers people to make choices.”

As owner and president, Siegesmund oversees 579 Construction based in Grand Junction and a new division Ramps are among the renovations SafeSpace Builders offers called SafeSpace Builders. to improve access for people who depend on wheelchairs and SafeSpace Builders designs and scooters for mobility. (Photo courtesy SafeSpace Builders) installs modifications and equipment in residential and commercial spaces to better Siegesmund launched 579 Construction nearly accommodate people with disabilities as well as help three years ago as a new iteration of TP Acoustics, a seniors stay in their homes. business her late grandfather, Howard Perry, operated The firm recently received designation as a for 25 years. While that firm installed acoustic Medicaid contractor. That means it receives referrals ceilings, it also provided other construction services. and can directly bill Medicaid for services provided to Siegesmund worked with her grandfather for people enrolled in the program. nearly 12 years, handling everything from accounting Sue Hayes, director of marketing for SafeSpace and payroll to estimating and project management.

Builders, says the operation is at once a business and Today, 579 Construction operates divisions for needed public service. “I see it as giving back to our commercial framing, thermal and moisture protection community.”

See SAFER page 14

STORY BY PHIL CASTLE

Dusti Reimer believes Western Colorado marketing and communications professionals — and business owners and managers, for that matter — deserve a conference that’s convenient and affordable to attend.

It’s what inspired Reimer to join in efforts to stage a conference in Grand Junction and what’s motivated her to bring the event back on an annual basis. “I think our people are worth it.”

The third version of the Initiate Conference is set for Feb. 24 and 25 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel.

Dusti Reimer The conference will include keynote speakers, breakout sessions and panel discussions. That’s not to mention what’s billed as creative sessions. “We are bringing back the puppies,” Reimer said.

Reimer owns Elevate PR and Marketing in Grand Junction and also founded the Experience Education Foundation, a nonprofit that stages the conference.

In 2018, she was among a group of professionals complaining about the travel and expense involved with attending conferences. She said they decided on an alternative. “Why don’t we just bring it here?”

The first Initiate Conference was held in 2019, and a second event followed in 2020. The conference was canceled in 2021 because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but is scheduled to return in February.

The story about the origin of the conference remains relevant, Reimer said, as efforts continue to support marketing and communications professionals and other business leaders in the region. The overall goal also remains the same, she said: to inform, inspire and energize participants as well nurture relationships among them.

Storytelling and relationships remain at the core of marketing and communications even as strategies and techniques change, she added. “For me, it’s the relationship piece. It’s building that connection.”

The upcoming Initiate Conference is scheduled to begin at 8:45 a.m. Feb. 24 with an opening talk followed by a two-hour keynote presentation by Mark Montini, chief marketing officer of Premium Service Brands.

Reimer said Montini has worked over his career with companies, nonprofits and political campaigns. He’s known for his disruptive leadership system and efforts to help companies and individuals reach their potential through value-creating innovations.

A 45-minute creative session afterward will include puppies from Harmony Animal Matchmaker and Sanctuary.

The lunch presentation will feature Josh Lewis, one of the primary public information and social media officers with the Colorado State Patrol. Lewis is known for his humorous and informative videos promoting safe driving habits.

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January 20-February 2, 2022

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well-rounded perspective blood collection services to new independent provider to Mesa County role St. Mary’s Medical Center in Grand Phil Castle Junction has plans to turn Theannounced Business Times over its blood collection operations to an independent services provider.

Frank Whidden brings what he Under a signed considers a well-rounded perspective to his letter of intent, new job as Mesa County administrator.

Vitalant will complete Whidden worked the transition by this in information summer. technology and holds Until then, the a master’s degree in St. Mary’s Blood computer information Donor Center at the systems. But he also Pavilion will continue holds a doctoral to collect and provide Bryan Johnson degree in applied blood products. management and Bryan Johnson, decision making and Frank Whidden president of St. Mary’s worked for more than Medical Center, said 20 years as a minister. Whidden has operational requirements worked for large and small organizations implemented by the in both the private and public sectors.

U.S. Food and Drug Whidden expects to draw on all of his Administration over experiences in helping Mesa County the years have commissioners make and carry out decisions. made it increasingly Valuing staff and making the county Anne Burtchaell complicated to operate an employer of choice is among the a blood donor center within a hospital. priorities, Whidden said. So is planning “Utilizing the expertise of a blood that results in sustainable funding and collection organization that has a balanced budgets on a long-term basis. sole focus on blood supply and donor Meanwhile, Mesa County will management makes the most effective continue to pursue efforts that promote a friendly business environment and economic development, Whidden said.

Whidden officially began working as county administrator at the beginning of the year. He succeeds Tom Fisher, who was hired as county manager in Summit County, Utah.

Whidden joined Mesa County in August 2011 as information technology director. In April 2014, he became deputy county administrator for resource management in a staffing reorganization that eliminated four director positions.

Before joining Mesa County, Whidden worked for a company providing information technology services to colleges and universities. In that role, he managed IT systems and services for institutions in Alabama, Arizona, Illinois

and efficient use of the community blood as well as New England and Canada. supply,” Johnson said. “It also allows Whidden said people who work in us to further focus on our specialty and information technology aren’t just “geeks,” passion — patient care.” but offer an important perspective because The largest independent nonprofit they’re familiar with nearly every aspect of blood services provider in the United operations and how work gets done. They States, Vitalant provides blood and also tend to think about new and potentially transfusion medicine services to about better ways of doing things in asking and 900 hospitals and their patients across the answering “what if ” questions. “They know country. how to effect change in an organization.”

Anne Burtchaell, president of the Whidden expects to bring that same Vitalant Mountain Division, said the approach to his duties as administrator. transition will continue a long relationship Whidden said it’s his role to help between Vitalant and St. Mary’s. county commissioners make and then “We are excited to serve the Grand implement decisions. The commissioners Junction community and its dedicated in turn represent the residents of the donors,” Burtchaell said. “We are thrilled county and express their will, he said. “We to represent the entire Colorado footprint work for the people.” and to ultimately help more patients in Whidden said he also considers himself need.” a liaison between the commissioners and Johnson said blood donors shouldn’t county staff, and one of the priorities is to notice any changes — and their donations make sure employees feel valued. Whidden are still needed to help patients facing said he hopes not only to improve morale, burns and other injuries, cancers and other but also take steps that will make Mesa illnesses as well as surgeries.

County an organization for which people Donors should continue giving blood want to work. at the St. Mary’s Blood Center or at Meanwhile, Whidden expects the upcoming blood drives until the transition county to continue policies and initiatives is complete. that support local business and economic F development. There are additional steps that can be taken to make it easier for local businesses to sell products and services to the county, he added.

Mesa County will keep working with other government entities, organizations and institutions on fostering an environment that supports existing businesses and attracts new businesses, he said.

Whidden said there could be a opportunities to encourage the additional development of businesses that provide services to the agricultural industry as well as promote Mesa County as a distribution center for the region.

The important thing is to consider issues from a well-rounded perspective, Whidden said. “We won’t be myopic as we look at things.” ✦

January 20-February 2, 2022

The Business Times

Director selected to lead outdoor rec industry office A former Western Colorado resident with experience in conservation and government relations has been selected to lead efforts promoting the outdoor recreation industry in Colorado.

Conor Hall was named director of the Outdoor Recreation Industry Office, part of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade.

“Outdoor recreation is not only a key pillar Conor Hall of Colorado’s economy, but also a major contributor to our quality of life, mental health and physical health,” Hall said. “I am thrilled to join OEDIT and partner with Colorado communities and our world-class business and (non-governmental organization) leadership.

Together, we will support, attract and expand our outdoor recreation industry to promote sustainable economic growth and expand equitable access while prioritizing our shared goals of clean air, clean water and the protection of public lands.”

Hall succeeds Nathan Fey, who resigned to become director of land and water programs with the Mighty Arrow Family Foundation based in Colorado.

Patrick Meyers, executive director of OEDIT, praised the selection. “Conor brings

a wealth of knowledge in the outdoor space, government relations and consensus-building and community development, all of which will be vitally important over the next several years as OEDIT works to deploy the $9.7 million (Economic Development Administration) grant that the OREC and tourism office received. This is an important component as we help rebuild the outdoor industry that was so adversely affected by the pandemic.”

Hall previously worked for the Trust for Public Land as director of conservation strategies, policy, advocacy and government relations for the Intermountain West. His efforts led to the allocation of more than $2 billion in public funding for land and water conservation and access to nature. He also served as vice president of the Trust for Public Land Action Fund, a nonprofit affiliate supporting the work.

Before that, he served as a senior advisor on climate and conservation with Michael Bloomberg’s 2020 presidential campaign and as a senior advisor to then Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper.

Hall holds a degree in political science and government from Earlham College in Indiana.

Hall grew up in Crestone and spent his summers on a cattle ranch.

Carlos Fernandez, state director of the Nature Conservancy and a member of the See DIRECTOR page 10

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January 20-February 2, 2022

City and CMU work together on 12th Street safety efforts

The City of Grand Junction and Colorado Mesa University continue to work to improve pedestrian safety around the campus.

The latest efforts include reduced speed limits — from 35 miles per hour to 30 mph — along 12th Street. New signs are scheduled for installation on Jan. 21.

In addition, trees John Marshall will be trimmed to improve visibility for motorists.

“Every year, we evaluate campus safety, and one of the ways we do that is by walking campus with students, faculty and staff to see if any additional safety Greg Caton measures should be implemented,” said CMU President John Marshall. “Improving pedestrian safety on 12th Street has been top of mind for us and many in our community. We appreciate the City of Grand Junction for being proactive and stepping up with solutions. It’s always incredible to see what can happen when we collaborate on a common goal.”

Grand Junction City Manager Greg Caton agreed. “CMU is a wonderful community partner. We appreciate being able to come together on a solution for our community. The improvements will result in changes that are not only beneficial for CMU students but to all residents and visitors.”

The city reminded pedestrians to cross streets at marked crosswalks, observe traffic signals and avoid cell phone use when walking in congested areas or crossing busy streets. At night, pedestrians should wear bright colors and walk in welllit areas when possible. Motorists should always yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.

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Playground planned for New Emerson

A community playground will be constructed at New Emerson School in Grand Junction under a $190,495 grant from the Colorado Health Foundation.

The playground will reflect a theme of science, technology, engineering and math. New Emerson serves as a STEAM magnet school.

“Our goal is that the funding for the project would provide local families with an interactive, STEAM-focused playground and a safe outdoor community space,” said Terry Barrientos Schmalz, principal at New Emerson.

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January 20-February 2, 2022

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firm News, views Clothing HQ and advice moving you can use to West Slope

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An outdoor clothing company has announced plans to move its headquarters to Western Colorado.

SheFly expects to open its headquarters at the ICELab at Western Colorado University in Gunnison. The facility serves as a business resource center and coworking space for small businesses and student entrepreneurs.

SheFly plans to create 24 jobs over the next five years with an average annual salary of $65,075. That will include positions in design, marketing and management.

SheFly pants feature a patented zipper design. In addition to the regular zipper fly that allows women to take pants on and off, a second zipper extends from beneath the first zipper to the back of the waistband.

This design allows women to unzip only as far as needed to maximize privacy on the trail, in the woods or anywhere else nature calls.

Georgia Grace Edwards, chief executive officer and co-founder of SheFly, said she developed the idea for the pants while working as a glacier guide in Alaska. When she returned to Middlebury College in Vermont, she shared her idea with fellow students Bianca Gonzalez and Charlotte Massey. Through a four-week entrepreneurship class, they built the idea into a business model and began sewing pants in their dorm rooms.

Edwards said they discovered Colorado through the Moosejaw Accelerator, an eight-week business mentoring program for early-stage outdoor recreation companies guided by the ICELab. Moosejaw promotes diversity and inclusivity in the outdoor recreation industry.

“I can think of few places better suited for an outdoor apparel brand focused on increasing accessibility and empowerment in the outdoors,” Edwards said. “As a 100 percent women-run company, SheFly is incredibly lucky to be able to scale our startup in a place where we have access to capital, a wide variety of product testing grounds and activities, business mentorship, resources, education and networks, a work force that’s passionate about improving outdoor spaces and experiences, a constant stream of our core customer segment and a chance at the work-play balance we all strive for. Some of the outdoor industry’s heaviest hitters came from rural Colorado communities, and it’s an honor to be able to follow in their footsteps.”

The Colorado Economic Development Commission increased its strategic fund incentive to $156,000 to secure the SheFly headquarters. The town of Gunnison will provide $75,000 to support the move.

“We appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with OEDIT to bring SheFly to the City of Gunnison, and we look forward to seeing the great results that will come out of this,” said Gunnison Mayor Diego Plata.

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Continued from page 5 Outdoor Recreation Advisory Council, also hailed the selection. “Conor Hall is well-respected for his commitment to the outdoor recreation industry and conservation. At TNC, we have had the pleasure of working with Conor for many years during his time with the Hickenlooper administration as well at the Trust for Public Land on several projects, including the creation of Fishers Peak State Park. Conor’s background and passion for people and the outdoors make him an ideal candidate to take on this leadership role.”

Meyers said other priorities for Hall and the Outdoor Recreation Industry Office include working with industry partners on the future of the outdoor retailer show and its success in Colorado, the implementation of the revised Grow Your Outdoor Recreation Industry program through the Rural Technical Assistance Program and ensuring the sustainable and thoughtful growth in the use of outdoor recreation assets.

By one estimate, the Colorado outdoor recreation industry accounted in 2020 for $9.6 billion in consumer spending and 120,000 direct jobs.

Hall is an outdoorsman who likes hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, rock climbing and snowboarding.

He is a cancer survivor who serves on the non-profit First Descents alumni advisory board and mentors other young people coping with cancer. He also serves as a national board member for the anti-bullying nonprofit Stand for Courage and is a 2019 McKinsey Academy leadership fellow.

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$15.4 million awarded through arts program

A total of nearly 900 businesses, organizatons and individuals in Colorado received funding under a program designed to provide pandemic relief to the arts and culture industry.

Colorado Creative Industries, a division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, awarded $15.4 million in grants through the Colorado Arts Relief Fund.

The Colorado Legislature established the fund to offer relief to an industry that lost an estimated $2.6 billion and 59,600 jobs between April and July 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions.

In 2019, the arts and culture industry generated $31.6 billion in sales of goods and services.That figure represented about 4 percent of all goods and services sold within the state.

“Colorado’s vibrant creative industries are a cornerstone of our economy and our way of life,” said Colorado Gov. Jared Polis. “These grants will keep businesses open, restore jobs and replace revenue, all of which are key to ensuring a strong recovery for this critical sector.”

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Event

FOR YOUR INFORMATION The Initiate Conference is set for Feb. 24 and 25 at the DoubleTree

by Hilton Hotel, 743 Horizon Drive in Grand Junction. Admission ranges from $399 for both days, to $199 for one day to $99 each for the two keynote presentations.

To register or obtain more information, visit the website at www.initiateconference.com.

For sponsorship or vendor information, send an email to initiateconference@gmail.com

January 20-February 2, 2022

Continued from page 2 On the afternoon of Feb. 24, the conference will offer breakout sessions covering a range of topics, including Canva graphic design software, content hashtags, digital storytelling hubs, press releases, social media algorithms and video production.

The day will end with a mixer set for 4 to 6 p.m. for conference participants as well as members of the local media.

On Feb. 25, the conference will begin with a keynote presentation by David Ludlam, vice president of Chill Brands Group, a publicly traded consumer products firm with its domestic headquarters in Grand Junction. He previously worked as director of public relations for Colorado Mesa University and executive director of the West Slope Colorado Oil & Gas Association.

Reimer said Ludlam will discuss the importance of meaning in messages and some of the communications efforts in which he’s been involved.

A coffee and conversation session set for 10:45 to 11:45 a.m. will give participants an opportunity to talk about the ways they can apply what they’ve learned to their own marketing and communications efforts, Reimer said.

Afternoon breakout sessions will offer information about such topics as brand identity, content creation and email newsletters.

Speakers and topics are selected, Reimer said, to address the needs of not only marketing and communications professionals, but also the business owners and managers who often take on those tasks. Information presented at the conference reflects, too, changing techniques and strategies. “Everything we do is very intentional.”

The overall goal remains the same now as it was in 2018, she said. And that’s to stage a conference that’s convenient and affordable to attend.

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Ag department seeks deputy commissioner A nationwide search is under way for a new deputy commissioner of agriculture in Colorado.

The Colorado Department of Agriculture is looking for a leader to succeed Steve Silverman, who expects to lead the department in February to teach at the Sturm College of Law at the University of Denver. The deadline for applications is Jan. 31.

The deputy agriculture commissioner oversees eight divisions in addition to implementing regulatory and policy change and developing new initiatives.

“Steve is leaving behind some big shoes to fill, and we hope to find a candidate who can help lead the daily work of our agency while committing to build and expand our relationships with ag communities across Colorado,” said Kate Greenberg, Colorado commissioner of agriculture.

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January 20-February 2, 2022

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Safer

Continued from page 2 and commercial drywall and acoustic and specialty ceiling installation and finishing.

Operating out of the Business Incubator Center in Grand Junction, 579 Construction works on a variety of projects throughout Colorado. The company employs a staff of 27.

SafeSpace Builders serves Western Colorado, Siegesmund says, sending crews to various locations to handle multiple projects.

Those projects begin with a free assessment to determine what’s needed — whether that’s a full remodel; renovations in a bathroom or kitchen; or the installation of ramps, lifts and other devices. The firm also works with doctors, physical therapists and other health care providers to tailor services to their patients.

Modifications often are made to bathrooms and kitchens to make them more accessible and safer for people to use, Siegesmund says. That might include barrier-free showers and grab bars in bathrooms as well as lower cabinets and pull-out shelves in kitchens to accommodate people in wheelchairs. Lifts and ramps also are popular additions, she says.

Siegesmund says it’s important for her crews to remain attentive to customers and their needs. “It’s definitely a more sensitive type of work.”

After a project, crews offer training on using new features and equipment to make sure customers know how to use them safely.

The projects make a difference in customers’ lives, Siegesmund and Hayes say.

Hayes she knows firsthand the benefits of modifications because of the assistance they offered her mother in dealing with the effects of a neurological disease.

Hayes that instilled in her a passion for helping others facing similar challenges.

Before joining SafeSpace, she served as director of a nonprofit organization providing mobility support for people living with physical disabilities.

Modifications and specialized equipment can help people remain safely in their homes for as long as possible, in turn avoiding the expenses associated with skilled care facilities, Hayes says.

Siegesmund says she hopes to open a showroom in Grand Junction to display the various ramps, lifts and other equipment that can improve accessibility.

But for now, she says she’s excited about new services that will help customers with unique needs.

Hayes agrees. “It’s a lot of excitement.

The community has really embraced what we do.”

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FOR YOUR INFORMATION For additional information about SafeSpace Builders, call (970) 462-9472 or visit https://safespacebuilders.co.

News Trends Contributors Colorado outlook improves Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac

January 20-February 2, 2022

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INDICATORS AT A GLANCE

n Business filings t New business filings in Colorado, 38,211 in the third quarter, down 1.2% from the third quarter of 2020.

n Confidence

s Consumer Confidence Index 115.8 in December, up 3.9. s Leeds Business Confidence Index for Colorado, 58 for the first quarter, up 1.9. s National Federation of Independent Business Small Business Optimism Index 98.9 for December, up 0.5.

n Foreclosures

t Foreclosure filings in Mesa County, 2 in December, down from 8 in December 2020. s Foreclosure sales in Mesa County, 3 in December, up from 2 in December 2020.

n Indexes

s Conference Board Employment Trends Index, 116.63 for December, up 0.99. s Conference Board Leading Economic Index 119.9 for November, up 1.1%. t Institute for Supply Management Purchasing Managers Index for manufacturing, 58.7% for December, down 2.4%.

n Lodging

s Lodging tax collections in Grand Junction, $$362,081 for November, up 26.3% from November 2020.

n Real estate

s Real estate transactions in Mesa County, 562 in December, up 4.8% from December 2020. s Dollar volume of real estate transactions in Mesa County, $256 million in December, up 52.4% from December 2020.

n Sales

s Sales and use tax collections in Grand Junction, $5.8 million for November, up 15.5% from November 2020. s Sales and use tax collections in Mesa County, $4.2 million for November, up 15.3% from November 2020.

n Unemployment n Mesa County — 4.7% for November, unchanged. t Colorado — 5.1% for November, down 0.3. t United States — 3.9% for December, down 0.3.

But survey results also reflect concerns over inflation and pandemic Colorado business leaders are more upbeat heading into the new year, although they remain concerned about inflation, the COVID-19 pandemic and labor shortages.

The Leeds Business Confidence Index climbed to 58 for the first quarter of 2022. That’s 1.9 points higher than the fourth quarter of 2021 and 10.1 points higher than the first quarter of 2021.

Looking ahead to the second quarter of 2022, the overall score moved even higher to 59.4 on expectations for a sustained recovery.

Readings above 50 indicate more positive than negative responses. The long-term average for the index stands at 54.4.

The business research division at the Leeds School of Business at the University of Colorado at Boulder calculates the index. The index is based on the results of quarterly surveys of business leaders from across the state and various industry sectors.

A total of 231 people responded to the survey upon which the first quarter index was based.

In addition to an overall score, the index provides individual scores for each of six metrics. All six scores increased between the fourth and first quarters to levels above 50.

Confidence in the Colorado economy rose 2.5 points to 57.6.

A total of 49.8 percent of business leaders who responded to the first quarter survey predicted moderate or strong increases in the state economy, while 33.6 percent forecast no change and a total of 16.6 percent anticipated moderate or strong decreases.

Gross domestic product, the broad measure of goods and services produced in the state, rose at an seasonally adjusted annual rate of 2.3 percent during the third quarter of 2021.

Confidence in the national economy rose 1.5 points, but at 50.4 was the lowest score for the six metrics. While a total of 42.4 percent of leaders expected moderate of strong increases, 31.3 percent anticipated no change and a total of 26.3 percent forecast moderate or strong decreases.

Hiring expectations rose 2.1 points to 63.7, the highest score for the six metrics. A total of 50.6 percent of leaders anticipated moderate or strong increases in hiring, 38.7 percent expected no change and 10.6 percent forecast moderate or strong decreases.

Nonfarm payrolls increased 117,500 in Colorado between

CONFIDENCE INDEX AT A GLANCE

Here’s a look at the latest results of the Leeds Business Confidence Index: 4Q 2021 1Q 2022 s Overall expectations 56.1 58 s State economy 55.1 57.6 s National economy 48.9 50.4 s Sales expectations 59 60.2 s Profit expectations 56.6 57.9 s Hiring expectations 61.6 63.7 s Capital expenditures 55.4 58.3

November 2020 and 2021, with 2.9 percent employment growth in Mesa County during that span. The statewide jobless rate stood at 5.1 percent in November 2021.

Capital expenditure expectations climbed 2.9 points, the largest gain of the six metrics, to 58.3. Even as 41.4 percent of respondents projected moderate or strong increases in expenditures, 43.3 percent expected no change and 15.2 percent forecast moderate or strong decreases.

Sales expectations rose 1.2 points to 60.2 with 58.6 percent of respondents anticipating moderate or strong increases. While 27.2 percent forecast no change, 14.3 percent expected moderate or strong decreases.

Profit expectations climbed 1.3 points to 57.9 with 50.7 percent of business leaders projecting moderate or strong decreases. While 32 percent forecast no change, 17 percent anticipated moderate or strong decreases.

Asked to offer reasons for their expectations for the six metrics, 28 percent of business leaders who provided open-ended explanations cited inflation as a concern, followed by COVID-19 at 24 percent, supply chain issues at 16 percent and labor constraints at 11 percent. At the same time, 10 percent cited what they considered as an improvement in the pandemic as reason for optimism and 9 percent cited strong demand.

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Survey: Optimism up, but so are inflation concerns A measure of optimism among small business owners continues to increase, but so do concerns about inflation and labor shortages.

“Inflation is at the highest level since the 1980s and is having an overwhelming impact on owners’ ability to manage their businesses,” said Bill Dunkelberg, chief economist of the National Federation of Independent Business.

The NFIB reported its Small Business Optimism Index rose a half point to 98.9 in December.

The small business advocacy group based the index on the results of monthly Bill Dunkelberg surveys of members, most of them small business owners. For December, seven of 10 components of the index advanced and three retreated.

The proportion of those responding to the survey upon which the December index was based who expected the economy to improve in coming months rose three points from November.

But at a net negative 35 percent, more respondents anticipated worsening conditions. The reading has dropped 23 points over the past six months.

A net 29 percent reported plans to make capital outlays, up two points. A net 11 percent said they considered now a good time to expand, up a point.

A net 28 percent reported plans to increase staffing, up three points. A net 49 percent reported unfilled job openings, up a point.

Asked to identify their single most important business problem, 22 percent of those who responded cited inflation.

That was a 20-point increase from the beginning of 2021 and the highest level since 1981.

At 25 percent, an even bigger proportion cited quality of labor.

Another 13 percent cited the cost of labor, a record-high reading.

A net 48 percent of survey respondents reported raising compensation, up four points from November to a record level.

A net 32 percent said they expect to raise compensation in the next three months.

The share of those who said they expected more sales rose a point to a net 3 percent.

The share of those reporting higher earnings rose three points.

But at a net negative 14 percent, a bigger share reported lower earnings. Of those reporting higher earnings, 63 percent credited stronger sales and 15 percent cited higher prices. A net 57 percent of respondents reported raising average selling prices, up two points. Of those reporting lower earnings, 29 percent blamed higher materials costs and 22 percent cited weaker sales.

A net 8 percent reported plans to increase inventories, down two points. A net 9 percent said they consider current inventories too low, down six points.

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The Business Times

January 20-Februry 2, 2022

December payroll gain smallest of the year

Employment increased 199,000 in the United States in December, the smallest monthly gain in 2021, even as the unemployment rate decreased to 3.9 percent.

The latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimate for nonfarm payrolls gains was less than half the average monthly increase of 537,000 for 2021. With a three-tenths of a percent decline between November and December, the jobless rate fell to a COVID-19 pandemic-era low.

Estimated payroll gains for November and October were revised upward a total of 141,000 to 249,000 and 648,000, respectively.

Nonfarm payrolls have increased 18.8 million since April 2020, but remain 3.6 million lower than the pre-pandemic level in February 2020.

For December, 6.3 million people were counted among those unsuccessfully looking for work. Of those, 2 million have been out of work 27 weeks or longer.

Another 3.9 million people were counted among those working part-time because their hours were cut or they were unable to find full-time positions.

The labor force participation rate remained unchanged at 61.9 percent, still 1.5 percent below February 2020.

Payroll gains for December were spread out among a number of industry sectors. Employment increased 53,000 in leisure and hospitality, 43,000 in business and professional services, 26,000 in manufacturing, 22,000 in construction. and 19,000 in transportation and warehousing.

The average workweek for employees on private, nonfarm payrolls held steady at 34.7 hours. The average manufacturing workweek edged down a tenth of an hour to 40.3 hours.

Average hourly earnings increased 19 cents to $31.31. Over the past year, average hourly earnings have increased 4.7 percent.

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Labor index rises

An index tracking labor trends in the United States continues to increase, forecasting job growth in the months ahead.

The Conference Board reported its Employment Terends Index rose nearly a point to 116.63 in December.

“Based on the latest readings of the index’s components, job growth is likely to be strong in 2022,” said Gad Levanon, head of the Conference Board Labor Markets Institute.

Over the short-term, though, job growth could be tepid, he said.

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Trends Contributors Opinion Review the reviews Business Briefs Business People Almanac

January 20-February 2, 2022

The Business Times

Page 17

COMING ATTRACTIONS

n The next Coffee Club meeting is scheduled for 9 to 10 a.m. Jan. 21 at the FWorks coworking space located at 325 E. Aspen Ave. in Fruita.

The meeting will offer coffee, networking and a discussion of small business issues. The event is free for Fruita chamber members and $5 for others.

For additional information, call 243-5242 or log on to the website at http://gjincubator.org. n The Business Incubator Center in Grand Junction has scheduled a business startup workshops for 1 to 4:30 p.m.

Jan. 27 and Feb. 3 at the center, 2591 Legacy Way. The workshops will cover the business planning process, including fnancing options, legal structures, licensing, state registration and trade name searches. Admission is $55.

For additional information, call 243-5242 or log on to the website at http://gjincubator.org. n The Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce has scheduled its trip to the Colorado Legislature and annual banquet.

The legislative days trip to the Colorado Capitol in Denver is set for Feb. 24 and 25. The trip will feature conversations with legislators, including a dinner with more than 30 lawmakers.

The banquet is set for 6 to 11:30 p.m. March 4 at the Grand Junction Convention Center, 159 Main St. The fund-raising event will include networking and awards presentations.

To register for or obtain more information about upcoming chamber events, call 242-3214 or visit https://gjchamber.org.

Refocus and flip performance reviews to discover what employees need Anxiety and frustration. Those are among the words employees and their managers often use to describe performance reviews.

Employees experience anxiety as they’re put under the microscope and attend meetings in which their shortcomings are the focus.

Managers become frustrated they have to find time to fill out tedious forms and then engage in uncomfortable conversations.

As businesses try to turn the tide on what’s become known as the great resignation, there’s never been a better time to refocus and flip the performance review process.

The first step is to refocus on the why — that is, the desired outcome — of performance reviews. Traditionally, managers use performance reviews as an opportunity to let employees know what they do well and document those areas where improvement needed. Some organizations provide Mandy isperformance-based pay increases, and Woulfe reviews determine the amount. While these reasons make sense, the process can become rote over time and turn into a check-the-box exercise.

Consider turning performance reviews into opportunities to listen to employees. Address performance deficiencies as a daily task rather than as part of an annual process.

Organizations that aspire to be a place where people want to work should make understanding employee experiences and expectations the focus of performance reviews. The outcome of performance reviews should be flipped. Let employees review their employers and share what’s on their minds.

Here are the key elements: n Change the name to check-in conversations or perhaps something that aligns with the organization’s products or culture. n Go to a quarterly process to enable frequent conversations when needed or desired by employees, with only one documented conversation required annually. n Focus on multiple areas, but with no more than five talking points each. n Invite employees to take the initiative to schedule their conversations and choose the focus.

Numerous articles claim employees don’t leave companies, they leave bosses. Here, then, are some questions managers should ask: n What am I doing you’d like to see continue? n What am I doing you’d like me to stop doing? n What am I not doing, you’d like me to start doing?

Employees leave companies to attain different experiences and higher-level positions. Here are some questions to ask that

Organizations that aspire to be a place where people want to work should make understanding employee experiences and expectations the focus of performance reviews.

Let employees review their employers and share what’s on their minds.

can help uncover those aspirations: n When you think of your career goals, how does your current role at our company align with those goals? n What do you think you need to achieve the next goal? n What can I or the company provide to help you to achieve your goals?

Employees leave for other reasons, but managers don’t find out those reasons until afterwards. Here are some questions that could reveal what it might take to retain those employees: n Is there something other organizations offer you wish our company offered? n If you were to leave our company, what would another organization need to offer for you to consider leaving us? n What would cause you to stay with our company and not consider other offers?

These are all scary questions to ask, and the process of refocusing and flipping performance reviews should be taken only after careful consideration and preparation. In addition, managers should be coached on how to actively listen and, more importantly, respond with humility rather than defensiveness.

Let 2022 be the year you refocus and flip performance reviews. Listen from a perspective of genuine curiosity and a desire to truly understand the employee experience. That’s the key to employee happiness and retention.

Mandy Woulfe is the director of human resources for Mountain West Insurance & Financial Services, an insurance agency with offices in Western Colorado and New Mexico. A Society for Human Resource Management Senior Certified Professional, she brings more than 20 years of experience to her duties. She also serves as a volunteer leader for the Western Colorado Human Resource Association, which provided this column. For more information, visit www.wchra.org.

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The Business Times

January 20-February 2, 2022

Exeptional service depends on caring attitudes Chances are, you can recall some experiences as a consumer that left you with a good, if not a great, feeling.

The value you received during these interactions endeared you to these companies, creating loyalty and repeat business.

You were satisfied, your money and time was well spent and you walked away happy.

You’ve also likely engaged with businesses that left you wishing you never walked through their doors.

Perhaps it was an inferior product, poor customer service or bad or uncaring attitudes. Even if your experience was neutral — neither bad nor good — no trust or loyalty were nurtured in you.

What business can afford the effects on its customers — and, in Marcus turn, its bottom line — from a less Straub than positive experience? No matter the economic environment, customers matter. And unhappy ones tend to exert a far greater influence on your reputation and success.

With every interaction and transaction, a business conveys to its customers good, neutral or bad feelings. The last two have no place in a thriving company. The first is essential for happiness and success.

Where does the quality of the experiences your customers receive start? If you answered at the top, with you, the business owner, then you’re correct. You lead your company. This means your team members take their cues directly from you. Your attitude and behaviors set the standard in your organization.

When business owners truly care about people, they endeavor to provide team members and customers alike with the best experiences possible. These leaders understand that

No matter the economic environment, customers matter.

And unhappy ones tend to exert a far greater influence on your reputation and success.

when their teams feel good about the people and companies they work for, they impart those same good feelings to customers through positive attitudes and exceptional services. These leaders know their well-chosen and highly trained staff follow their lead and strive to give each and every customer a great experience.

The wisest business owners — those who lead rather than boss — hire people with good skills, but even more importantly, caring and positive attitudes. In addition, these leaders create and maintain uplifting and supportive work environments that foster the positive attitudes of their fellow team members. By doing so, engagement goes up and team members feel they’re part of a solid team that consistently delivers positive experiences to customers.

Along the road of business, you’ll encounter team members who prove unable or unwilling to maintain positive and caring attitudes. In these cases, your best choice is to let these bad apples go. Negative team members are like a cancer within any organization, damaging the morale of the team, diminishing customer relations and ultimately hurting business.

You’ll also experience customers who are never satisfied no matter how well you serve them. They will always find something to complain about and some reason to bring negativity into your business. Like negative and uncaring team members, toxic customers must be

let go. Otherwise, you risk contaminating the positive experiences your company provides and subjecting your team members to unjust treatment.

Give yourself and your business the gift of an honest self-appraisal. If you find your leadership style, team, work environment or customer services could benefit from the support of a qualified coaching professional, take that next step and invest in your excellence. The success of your company and happiness of everyone involved is at stake.

In return for receiving a good feeling from your business, the customers you serve will become fiercely loyal to your brand. They’ll refer other customers and could even help mitigate any criticism you experience. All of this affects the bottom line of your business. This will result in more sales and a feeling of accomplishment in providing consistently high-quality experiences.

Most team members and customers have attitudes that contribute to positive experiences. When you hire people with great attitudes and provide training, support and a positive work environment, you set the stage for exceptional customer service — the kind that leaves customers feeling great about your business.

Marcus Straub owns Life is Great Coaching in Grand Junction. His personalized coaching and consulting services help individuals, business owners, executives and companies build teams, organizations and lives filled with happiness and success. Straub is winner of the International Coach of the Year Award and author of “Is It Fun Being You?” He’s available for free consultations regarding coaching, speaking and trainings. Reach Straub at (970) 208-3150, marcus@ligcoaching.com or through the website located at www.ligcoaching.com.

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January 20-February 2, 2022

The Business Times

Choosing a retirement plan advisor Is this the year you set up or overhaul your company retirement plan? Have you considered where to get qualified advice and assistance with managing the investment options in your plan?

Many professional advisors — from insurance specialists to stockbrokers to CPAs and more — offer assistance setting up retirement plans. They have all the right licenses, but do they have the most suitable credentials beyond those licenses?

Financial advisors are supposed to put your interests ahead of their interests, but obstacles can interfere with this lofty and securities industry mandated objective.

One of the biggest obstacles to advisors Janet providing unbiased advice comes in the ways in Arrowood which they’re compensated. Advisors usually are compensated through commissions, fees or a combination of the two. For mutual funds-based investments, advisors often receive an ongoing percentage of the assets they manage — a payment called a trailer. While only a quarter of a percent or so total investments, this can become significant as assets accumulate and grow in your company retirement plan.

Here are some things to consider in selecting an advisor: n Make sure the advisor is properly licensed and doesn’t have a disciplinary history. Check out the licensing and disciplinary history of advisors on the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) website at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov. Some so-called advisors send out credible emails and make urgent telephone calls.

It’s a good idea to check their status on an official website. n Make sure an advisor has the proper credentials for the advice they dispense or investments they recommend. Some examples: Registered Investment Advisor (RIA), securities licenses, certified public accountant (CPA), Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) and Certified Financial Planner® (CFP). n Make sure the advisor focuses on businesses of your size

and growth potential and also has some experience with your industry or similar industries. Request and check references.

Here are some questions to ask a potential advisor: n How many retirement plan clients do you manage? More isn’t necessarily better. Advisors with large client bases often hand over much of the advisory work to staff. You might have little contact with the advisor once your retirement plan is in place. n Do you have a regular meeting and review cycle to keep clients appraised of trends in the investment industry, changes in recommended investments and other information? At these meetings, do you present a detailed report explaining the returns on my plan; the characteristics of the investments in the portfolio; why the performance met, exceeded or lagged expectations; and a proposed way ahead? n How are you compensated? If you receive commissions, how do you avoid apparent and actual conflicts of interest?

If you are fee-based, what is the fee, does it adjust as the value of my retirement plan assets cross significant milestones and does it decrease when investment performance lags what’s projected?

If you use a hybrid approach, do you have something in writing that explains how each aspect applies to my retirement plan? n Do you tailor investments to my needs or use standard options as the basis of a retirement plan? n Do you have a resume that details your experience and investment philosophy?

Always talk to several advisors. Before you make a final decision, read through the information at www.investor.gov.

Janet Arrowood is founder and managing director of the Write Source, a Grand Junction firm offering a range of services, including grant and proposal writing, instruction and technical writing. Reach her at janet.arrowood@thewritesourceinc.com.

For more information, log on to www.TheWriteSourceInc.com.

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Page 20

The Business Times

January 20-February 2, 2022

Successful leaders aspirational, not complacent Business executive Jack Welch once said a leader must look into the future and see the organization not as it is, but as it should be.

What do you see when you look into the future? Do you see your organization as it is or as it should be?

By the end of this decade — perhaps sooner — the landscape of the working world will change.

The majority of employees will be “Zoomers.” Think Gen-Xers on steroids. A Zoomer is an informal term for a member of Generation Z, born in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Tim The silent greatest generation, Haggerty as some would call it, is no longer in the workplace. Sadly, there are few remaining to teach us. My age group of boomers is leaving the work force and, frankly, that’s been a big issue in the COVID-19 pandemic work world. Far too many boomers have declared, “Enough. I’m out.”

And now the work force is filled with Generation Xers, Millennials and Gen-Zers.

That poses the question: Have we been training leaders to lead these types of individuals?

Leaders must be aspirational, not complacent. Leaders must continually seek their true selves and work on what they aspire to become.

At a minimum, great leaders possess the following

Leaders must ask and answer two critical questions every day: Do they possess these attributes?

Is it apparent to “the common person” they possess these attributes?

attributes: They have an inspiring vision. They know they need other great people to succeed. They know how to set boundaries. They persuade others to follow their causes.

They empower others. They give credit where credit is due. And they’re always learning.

Leaders must ask and answer two critical questions every day: Do they possess these attributes? Is it apparent to the “the common person” they possess these attributes?

To understand the concept of the common person, consider some of the psychological theories of values as well as advances in rationality research to deploy a theory of expanded rationality.

This concept considers “rationality” as a way of asking a question of someone we all generally believe is, in fact, rational.

What would occur if that same “common person” asked any of your employees whether you possess those leadership attributes? Would you accept the answers and interpretations they provide? More specifically, what type

of answers do you think they’d get, and would you accept those answers?

Here’s where the importance of looking into the future comes into play.

The silent and Boomer generations learned to both cope with and help in command-and-control leadership methodologies. They learned that to get along, they had to go along.

Today, however, employees demand something different — servant leadership.

Before wading too deep into what servant leadership can do for you and your organization, step back and revisit what you intentionally — or unintentionally — drive in your organization. Go ahead and look. What do you see?

Come back next time, when I’ll discuss how you consciously – or unconsciously — create leaders in your organization.

Tim Haggerty and his wife, Bernadette, operate a consulting firm based in Grand Junction that helps clients transition from command-and-control to servant leadership and change the view of wages and benefits from expenses to investments. Haggerty brings to the venture more than 40 years of experience in operations management and a record of decreasing costs while increasing productivity and revenue. Reach him at info@timothyhaggerty.com or (610) 737-0496. More information is available at www.timothyhaggerty.com.

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January 20-February 2, 2022

The Business Times

Page 21

Fitness trends offer variety of ways to stay healthy Every year for the last 16 years, the American College of Sports Medicine has compiled a list of what’s hot in the fitness industry for the coming year.

As with any industry, trends are established by the people who use the products and services. What’s great about the fitness industry, though, is trends offer not only new ideas about how to stay healthy, but also variety we all could integrate into our lives. Some fitness trends date back a century, but have come back because the basic principles remain sound. While technology and have changed, the basic need Paula education for movement hasn’t.

Reece Here are the top 10 trends for 2022, keeping in mind the fitness industry continues to experience the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the desire to return to normal lifestyles: n The No. 1 trend is wearable technology, including such devices as fitness bands, GPS trackers and heart rate monitors. These devices count calories and steps, track heart rates and monitor sleep. They’ve become so popular because they provide immediate feedback, making users more aware of their fitness levels and motivating them to achieve their goals.

Moreover, anyone at any fitness level can wear them.

n Home exercise gyms placed second. As more people work from home, such equipment as bikes, treadmills and small weights can help them keep fit. Home gyms haven’t taken the place of health clubs, but have added to overall fitness options. n Outdoor activities came in a third. Walking, riding, and hiking are among the most popular forms of outdoor exercise. n Strength training with free weights ranked fourth.

This includes using barbells, dumbbells, kettlebells and medicine balls. n Exercising for weight loss placed fifth. An exercise program often combines with a nutrition plan to promote weight loss. n Personal training ranked sixth. Hiring a certified personal trainer or other experienced fitness professional is on the rise. By working out with a trainer, people not only enjoy the benefits of strength training, but also a coach who’s preparing a workout program to fit their needs, personalities and goals. n High-intensity interval training came in seventh.This type of workout involves short bursts of exercise followed by short periods of recovery. HIIT provides a dynamic workout with many health benefits and is performed in a short session, usually less than 30 minutes. n Body weight training placed eighth. Using body

weight to create an effective workout goes back to the basics. Think of the such familiar exercises as lunges, squats and pushups. These types of exercises require little to no equipment and can be incorporated into many different types of workouts. n Online live and on-demand classes dropped from the top spot to ninth. By using digital streaming technology, group exercise and training instruction can be accessed online. Many of these services are fee- and subscriptionbased and can be viewed at your convenience. n Health and wellness coaching ranked 10th.Whether it’s one-on-one or in small groups, a trained health coach can combine behavior, exercise and nutrition — as well as encouragement — to promote healthy lifestyles.

This list offers some ideas of what’s available.

Whether you’re looking for a fitness facility or just getting started on your fitness journey, the goal is to keep you moving. Whether it’s a studied trend or something new, finding activities you enjoy is the key.

National Public Radio recently broadcast a story about the demand for warehouse space in the United States.

JLL, a prominent commercial real estate services firm, estimated 1 billion square feet of industrial warehouse space will be built by 2025.

The source for that kind of demand isn’t surprising. Consider that nearly everything we use passes through a warehouse — appliances, clothes, consumables, food, you name it. Meeting demand won’t be easy, however.

Doug Kiersey, one of the largest Becca warehouse owners for the country’s Posner biggest retailers, and Zac Rogers, a supply chain management expert from Colorado State University, explained this frenzy. Their take is that warehouses operated at a 93 percent to 96 percent occupancy rate before the COVID-19 pandemic, so there wasn’t a lot of space available. The need for such dramatic

growth comes directly from well-publicized disruptions in global supply chains. These disruptions created what’s termed “doomsday storing” of goods by retailers.

The previous “just in time” paradigm of inventory maintained the minimum amount of inventory to meet demand. Not anymore. Consumers expect their products to arrive within days, and retailers don’t want to be left unprepared. Now, the concept is “time costs money.”

This new hoarding concept is the primary reason 1 billion square feet of industrial warehouse space is needed.

Kiersey said it’s challenging to find land to build such structures and accommodate the concepts retailers want in their storage locations. It’s not as simple as it once was, when warehousing facilities acted as distribution hubs, and products moved through them quickly on their way to final destinations with manufacturers and consumers. The idea now is that a significant supply of goods must remain on hand so it’s readily available when customers place orders.

Designers and architects are back at their proverbial drawing boards to create new spaces to accommodate these needs.

The increased demand for warehouse space doesn’t mean Grand Junction can support multiple new builds of 100,000-square-foot-plus facilities. At least not yet.

Demand remains focused around ports and within cities that function as distribution hubs.

However, significant new developments are under way in the Grand Valley. Notably, Grand Junction will be home to a Mosaic Modular factory, a 200,000-square-foot facility scheduled for construction beginning this spring.

A redevelopment project is underway at the former Ametek building off 27 Road on Orchard Mesa to create a multi-tenant property with about 85,000 square feet More growth and development are likely to follow.

Paula and Dale Reece own Crossroads Fitness Centers in Grand Junction with a downtown location at 225 N. Fifth St. and north location at 2768 Compass Drive. For more information, call 242-8746 or visit the website located at www.crossroadsfitness.com.

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Changing needs bolstering demand for warehouse space

City of Grand Junction moves utility billing to Main Street building

The City of Grand Junction has moved utility billing and its general services department to a new location at 910 Main St. The city purchased the building late last year to better serve residents who pay their bills in person and conduct other routine financial transactions. The building includes a drive-up window. Off-street parking is available.

The general services department includes the purchasing division.

Online billing payment is available for all city utility customers. Purchasing and bid information also can be accessed online.

For additional information about city services, visit the website located at www.gjcity.org.

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Becca Posner is a broker associate at Coldwell Banker Commercial Prime Properties based in Grand Junction.

She’s been involved with real estate since 2016. For more information, call (970) 243-7375 or visit the website at www.CBC-Prime.com.

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Contributors Opinion Bold predictions for 2015 Insurance and instant replay: Survey results mixed bag A new year Business affords Thank Briefs Godnot-so-bold one of them works more like repeats for Colorado businesses a new opportunity Business People Almanac to meet local needs THE he B BUSINESS usiness T T Times IMES

PPAGE age 22 22

A quarterly survey of Colorado business leaders always yields interesting results — offering not only a statistical snapshot of their collective mood, but also an indication of their plans for hiring, capital expenditures and sales.

The latest survey results also reflect the strange juxtaposition in which business leaders find themselves these an days.

The COVID-19 pandemic, labor A new year almost always brings opportunity for a fresh start and shortages, supply chain and surging inflation all present unprecedented renewed ambition to do disruptions things better. challenges even as demand products services remains strong.

In business, that usuallyfor boils down and to providing customers better products A story in this issue details the Leeds Business Confidence Index.

But must to and services faster and at lower cost than competitors. Part of the process recap here, the reading for overall expectations forthey the actually first quarter the then new year include listening to customers to determine what needofand climbed to 58. all, Moreover, individual readings forlatest each and of six metricsif meeting 1.9 thatpoints need. After it does little good to offer the greatest the indexactually tracks also rose to levels 50. That’s significant because readings nobody wants what you’reabove selling. above 50like indicate more positive than negative responses.

Just the businesses that belong to the group, the Grand Junction Area The business research division at the Leeds School Business at the Chamber of Commerce invariably starts out the new yearofwith a reassessment of University Colorado at Boulder calculates index the members results of the servicesofand resources it provides and howthe well theybased matchonwith surveys of business acrossofthe and various industry sectors. needs. Jeff Franklin,leaders the newfrom chairman thestate chamber board of directors, Confidence in the Colorado economy rose points his to 57.6 nearly half personifies this approach in describing what he 2.5 considers role with for the coming of those who the survey forecasting strong increases year: listen toresponded members, to determine their needs andmoderate then meetorthose needs.

It’s a in the Looking ahead toasthe second quarter,of theBank reading moved even rolestate witheconomy. which Franklin is familiar market president of Colorado. higher toprocess 59.4. That well for the prospectsapproach of a sustained recovery.

The willbodes take on a more structured in what the chamber more encouraging newsaptly in the readings for hiring and capital plansThere as thewas resumption of a program called Listening to Business.

Under the expenditures — twoowners metricsparticipate that reflectininvestment in the growth of businesses. program, business in-depth interviews to identify barriers to The reading for hiring rose 2.1 points to 63.7, while the reading for capital growth and other problems they encounter. expenditures increased 2.9 points to 58.3. for salesclub. advanced 1.2 points to The new year offers a good time to The join reading the proverbial 60.2 As withannearly 60 percent of respondents anticipating moderate or strong increases. advertiser or reader, what do you need from the Business Times?

Asked identifyjournals the reasons for their expectations, business strong While to business traditionally gather and report the leaders relevantcited news to demand.

But they also cited concerns — among them inflation, the pandemic, readers, communication isn’t necessarily a one-way street. That’s especiallysupply true as chain issues ande-mail labor make shortages.

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Good publications are the result of not only the efforts of their staffs, but also And higher wages will be required to attract and retain employees. collaborative effortslikely involving advertisers and readers.

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Please helpand us to do so. bring to their endeavors and a deterination to succeed regardless of the✦ circumstances.

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THE BUSINESS TIMES

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Publisher/Owner: Craig R. Hall

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Reach advertising at: publisher@thebusinesstimes.com Reach the editor at: phil@thebusinesstimes.com.

Subscribe or submit press releases online at www.thebusinesstimes.com The Grand Valley Business Times, a subsidiary of Hall Media Group LLC, is published twice monthly and distributed throughout Grand Junction, Fruita and Palisade. Advertising rates and deadlines are available upon request. Opinions expressed in this publication are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, editor, staff or advertisers.

Copyright © 2015 — AllCopyright rights reserved. © 2022 — All rights reserved.

My mind works in mysterious ways.

Otherwise, could a casual It’s thathow time of year whenconversation about car insurance take me back toabound. one of resolutions and prognostications the of my existence? somehow Mybanes favorite saying appliedYet, to New Year’sI end up at theisNational Football anda resolutions in saying they’reLeague basically its instant replay rules. bunch of promises to break the first week Before And all you of January. while I won’t predict a absolute, whole lot,boycotting I can pretty much accurately crazies startthings in on that me, without question nail a few please notethe I’mnews. not You will see these are will make an across-the-board, pretty, well, predictable: at-all-costs boycotter.

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It’s as if this But I’m not against Craig Hall the entire person is aleague. required It’s actually sensible approach, and attendee at everya news here’s why: It’s IMPOSSIBLE to go through reporting event.

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But when itwho comes thinks like me. you andI’m I interact to weather andOtherwise, natural disasters, pretty with dozens of others who think completely sure this is simply history repeating itself. differently we millions do from the Same as it than has for andsmallest millions of topic the biggest personal concerns. years.toMore important, the planet made it! goodwere news is my species. interactions tend WhatThe didn’t certain How’s to befor with folks who aren’t part of the few that perspective? who ■ refuse to or attempt to never associate Prediction two: When it comes to a with who think differently.

Thank crimeothers or something that occurs between God, because that’srequired what’s special about humans, the other attendee at all freedom-loving people.isThe news reporting events the others? person They’re who just themselves andthe represent saysfooling this: “They we’re just nicest the biggest to freedom. do I know? people, danger and in no way did IHow see something Simple. needExactly. a gun toNo impose their lust like this They coming.” one does for everyone to think way they most of the time whenthey it comes to do.

So justand howacquaintances. did I get here?People Well, should neighbors it through a couple becomes surprised at what goesof onrecent from time to experiences. first was a conversation time in their The neighborhoods, towns and I had someone I do business whose withwith people they know becausewith people are many leanings 180 good. political And for and the social times that theyare shouldn’t degrees opposite of mine.

To all too many, be shocked — like with politicians, repeat this relationship shouldn’t—occur.

Butthe I never offenders and terrorists where’s desired to be of the all too many.

What interview thatone says, “This doesn’t surprise stood me was his analogy about me inout thetoleast.”

COVID-19 vaccines and Something car insurance.

■ Prediction three: good While it had economically, some valid points, think it will happen and Ithe missed on a few. in particular I government will The takecouple credit for it. The most disagreed — politely with were how recent example is gas— prices, whereabout people car aboutcredit protecting the otherfor ask insurance me why Iiswon’t the president guy how I see insurance working. low and gas prices.

Mycar answer is simple: Car insurance is a good Government never makes thething price you of decide to have to accompany your privilege something go down and simply takes credit to motorGas vehicle.

It protects fordrive goodanews. pricing is subjectyou, to your other people and are other manyproperty, global factors.

Now there properties cases where it’s needed.

Butof governmentinanswers to addressing some it doestothese and to them keep things prices first stable forforemost Americans, protect in an accident, at of fault or not. but our you government has none them in The important is even place.second The only things itpoint has in placeifinthe the

January J20-F ebruary 2, 2015 2022 ANUARY 15-28,

other person involved — and for the point being made, let’shurt useconsumers. the analogyAnother of other long run always people being those on the planet live fact is that unemployment reacheswe a certain with doesn’t have insurance, level — based on the economy.

And you’re while the still protected.

Period. government might brag the number is low, My thinking onthe mygovernment friend’s analogy it’s more than likely did led my mind naturally — to something something to — cause that number being low designed make — and nottoinwork, a good way.corrections Conversely, when mid-game and up, set wrongs rightthe which all business picks it’s because people too work: And whooften needdoesn’t to buy widgets whothat’s wereinstant not replay the NFL. Worse, all too many buyinginwidgets because theineconomy was cases (I’ll give fans good contracting dueDenver to natural (orsome unnatural, red meat here) it doesreasons, indeed decided give cause government caused) we for rulebuy changes and moreThe league (read better some widgets. government government) had nothing tointervention do with this.in the game. But as we■all know, those rules (mandates) Prediction four:new In keeping with come or aren’tdoes, good Iduring thingstoo the late government predictthe the game.

Thinkwill the manipulate “tuck rule,”the lownumbers hits to to government the quarterback andeconomy every roughing the make the claim the is getting passer rule implemented over past two better because of how hard it isthe working to decades related to something that happened help all of us “working Americans.”

Now to Tom Brady you might say,which “Craig,you you—vehemently always say this— disagreed with atObama the time. about President because you don’t FolksYou’re might right be surprised to Ilearn like him.” in a sense. don’tI disagree rules.”ofWhen know thewith man,the but“Brady what I know him and Ihis played football, welike could thinking, I don’t it oractually him onehit iota. the other guy. this goes Ifurther.

How Before you go But off, however, didn’t like many replays you where you President Bushdo and hiswatch bailouts, stimulus see you see, yet and what his abandoning thethe free“officials” market tosee save something different either lethim the play the free market.

And and I don’t know stand change the outcomedoes, opposite either.or What the government and the to what you sawdo, with own eyes? only thing it can is your hurt the economy.

Now thatnothing to the or world and COVID. Unlessapply it does put criminals in There of thousands of studies (plays) that jail instead of partnering with them, nothing contradict one another, only a handful the government does willyet help.

Always look of have the the finalgovernment say as to the at it“officials” this way, whatever says result put into place.the And if there’s it is doing, whatever name of the gonna law it be a rule change, that’sthe always is passing, or whatever nameaoryear goalorof more down the road. the bureaucracy it is presenting to the Theexpect simplethefact is we’ve been told people, polar opposite to occur. sinceI July 2021I’m thesaying vaccines no longer guessofwhat is that prevent or out spreading of perhaps the it’s catching time to get of our own COVID. ButThere’s the refsplenty changed the call perspective. of history mid-game “you won’t get as sick” books and to historical research out thereif to you a vaccination. methis askhas this: beginhave to understand that Let all of Would youbefore. get full-coverage if happened And it will insurance again, it only covered a portion of or your claim? whether the topic is people government.

That’s what’s at play here in The best recommendation is the to find United States. see what’s some books orWe try can thatall whole Google playing out around world. Yet, when thing. There’s a lot the of information on the our officials look into they Great Depression.

Thetheir truthmonitor, is it wasn’t don’t what weuntil see.the And, just as many even asee good one government got Bronco fans believe about Tom and involved.

There’s also plenty of Brady research the refs,medieval our COVID “head referee” is an on the warm period when the idiot been paid off. than today with planetwho’s was much warmer Almost forgot.

The (and second reason? a whole lot less people warmer well Some mentioned inyep, beforecolumnist man was here at all).me And another publication.

Related to surprised what? I people have been killing other don’t never had an written. in-depth peopleknow. sinceI’ve history was first conversation with research him about thehelp game of Maybe some will stop life —these or anything, for that matter. all of trends. Otherwise, we’ll be Butwe’ve I doubt he sees his monitor saying never seeninanything like it in what I seeAnd in mine. our lives. not in a good way.

Craig Craig Hall Hall isis owner ownerand andpublisher publisherofofthe the Business Business Times.

Times. Reach Reachhim himatat424-5133 424-5133or publisher@thebusinesstimes.com. or publisher@thebusinesstimes.com.

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January 20-February 2, 2022

The Business Times

Just what it does it take to endure uphill climbs?

Tips from the death zone

Business owners and managers face fearsome challenges, particularly at the confluence of a pandemic, labor shortages and supply chain interruptions.

I report about those challenges and the efforts to surmount them. In the process, I marvel at the hard work, perseverance and resilience owners and managers — their staffs, too, of course — bring to their Phil Castle endeavors. Faced with such uphill climbs, I can’t help but wonder what motivates them to keep going and what makes the difference in their ultimate success.

All this comes to mind after reading an account of uphill climbs of a different sort — 14 to be exact. While there are vast differences between scaling mountains and managing businesses, there are also similarities.

In his memoir titled “Project Possible,” Nims Purja recounts his quest to not only reach the summits of the 14 highest mountains in the world, but also do so in only six months. To comprehend just how audacious that goal was, consider the previous record for the feat was seven years.

Consider, too, those 14 peaks top 8,000 meters in elevation — more than 26,000 feet above sea level. Mount Everest, the highest peak of all, exceeds 29,000 feet.

That’s more like the cruising altitude of a jetliner. The insufficient oxygen, frigid temperatures and other dangerous conditions have earned those areas above 8,000 meters the grim designation death zone. Tragically so, given the number of climbers who die there every year.

Scaling even one 8,000-meter peak constitutes a remarkable achievement.

Less than 50 climbers have scaled all 14.

Reinhold Messner, the Italian climber first to summit all of the 8,000-meter peaks, spent 16 years in the pursuit.

Incredibly, Purja completed his tour in Nepal, Pakistan and Tibet in just six months and six days. He reached the summits of Everest as well as nearby Lhotse and Makalu in one, 49-hour stretch.

What kind of a human is capable of that kind of performance? An athletically gifted one who gives new meaning to the term peak condition. But also a determined and disciplined one.

Purja grew up in Nepal and joined the British military with first the Nepalese Ghurkas and then the Special Boat Services. He developed his resolve to achieve ambitious goals in preparing for and enduring the brutal selection processes for those elite forces. His training regimen included 70-mile bike sessions in the gym and lengthy swims

While there are vast differences between scaling mountains and managing businesses, there are also similarities. in the pool. He’d get up in the middle of the night for hikes with backpacks loaded with 75 pounds of weight. The physical testing for selection into the Special Boat Services included an 18-mile speed march followed by an additional march of 37 miles carrying a backpack loaded with 80 pounds of gear.

Purja completed his first ascent of Everest with the assistance of a single Sherpa and rescued an Indian climber on the descent. In 2017, Purja returned as part of a military expedition and climbed Everest twice as well as Lhotse and Makalu.

He had even loftier goals, though, and ended his 16-year military career to take on a personal mission he dubbed Project Possible — to climb all of the 8,000-meter peaks in quick succession. He completed his mission and endured in the process nearly lethal avalanches, treacherous climbing conditions and extreme weather.

The book includes an appendix with what Purja terms eight lessons from the death zone. While the circumstances are different, those lessons also apply to business: n Leadership means considering the needs of others and working together in ways to benefit everyone. n Taking care of little things makes a big difference. n Don’t underestimate challenges.

Prepare and proceed confidently, but also with respect. n Hope and commitment are essential. n People’s true natures are revealed in stressful situations. n Strive to mentally turn bad situations into good ones and maintain a positive attitude. n Give 100 percent to the task at hand. n Never lie or make excuses.

I’ve bagged a couple of peaks.

But the 14ers and 13ers I climbed in Colorado are half the elevation of 8,000-meter peaks. Similarly, I’ve long written about businesses, yet never managed one myself.

I remain amazed and inspired by uphill climbs of all sorts. That includes the fearsome challenges faced and overcome in businesses in the Grand Valley every day. Here’s hoping those involved come out on top.

Phil Castle is editor of the Business Times. Reach him at 424-5133 or phil@thebusinesstimes.com.

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Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac

n GRAND JUNCTION REAL ESTATE FIRM EXPANDS OPERATIONS WITH ACQUISITION

Colorado Banker Distinctive Properties and Coldwell Banker Commercial Prime Properties based in Grand Junction have further expanded operations with the acquisition of Coldwell Banker Good Life Real Estate Group in the Kansas City area.

“It’s an exciting time for our company, and we are thrilled to work with the incredible team of agents and staff from Coldwell Banker Good Ryan Brown Life,” said Ryan Brown, president of Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties and Coldwell Banker Commercial Prime Properties.

“CB Good Life’s foundation and reputation have been key to their tenured success, and now our teams are well-positioned in the market to outpace our competition through industry leading technology, individual agent support and exceptional client services,” Brown said.

Karen Bergin, broker and owner of Coldwell Banker Good Life Real Estate Group, Karen Bergin agreed. “Our companies align perfectly, as we both are committed to having systems and programs in place to deliver a high client experience while changing the lives of real estate agents on our team professionally and personally.”

Founded in 1997, Coldwell Banker Good Life Real Estate Group ranks among the top 10 brokers in Kansas City and also has ranked as the top Coldwell Banker office in Kansas.

With the acquisition, Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties operates offices in Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Missouri and Montana. For more information, visit www.cbdistinctive.com. n MORE PARKING AND OTHER IMPROVEMENTS PLANNED FOR LONG FAMILY MEMORIAL PARK A project will increase parking on the north side of the Long Family Memorial Park in Grand Junction.

The project will close the existing north park entrance from F Road and construct a new entry on Fledgefield Drive while creating 21 additional parking spaces. Other improvements are planned for landscaping and the irrigation system. The work is scheduled for completion in May and expected to cost about $375,000.

The park will remain open through construction with access and parking on the south entrance next to Central High School.

Mesa County operates Long Family Memorial Park as a regional facility with six sports fields, a softball field and other amenities. n GRAND VALLEY EQUINE LEARNING CENTER SCHEDULES FUND-RAISER FOR MARCH 4 Grand Valley Equine Assisted Learning Center has scheduled a benefit event for March 4 at the Colorado Mesa University Ballroom in Grand Junction.

What’s billed as a night at the races is set to start at 5 p.m. and include diner, prizes, a silent auction and six horse races. Proceeds will go to building an indoor arena and other improvements.

A nonprofit organization, the Grand Valley Equine Assisted Learning Center provides horse-based therapies.

For tickets or more information, visit the website located at www.gvequineassistedlearningcenter.org.

The Business Times

SHARE YOUR NEWS

The Business Times welcomes submissions for free publication in Business Briefs. Email submissions to phil@thebusinesstimes.com or submit a news release online at the website at www.thebusinesstimes.com.

n DEL TACO RESTAURANTS ADD TO OFFERINGS UNDER NEW 20 UNDER $2 VALUE MENU Del Taco Restaurants have expanded the offerings under its new 20 under $2 menu.

“While other brands are getting rid of their value menus, we are expanding ours to bring our guests a wider variety of items and flavors,” said Tim Hackbardt, chief marketing officer of Del Tacos. “We know our guests are concerned about rising gasoline prices and overall inflation, and that why we think this is Tim Hackbardt the right menu at the right time.”

The new menu includes burritos, drinks, nachos, shakes, snacks, tacos and other fare.

In addition to the value menu, Del Taco also launched two new mint shakes as well as two kinds of stuffed quesadilla breakfast tacos.

Del Taco operates a total of 600 restaurants across 16 states, including locations at 2513 U.S. Highway 50 and 2878 North Ave. in Grand Junction. For more information, visit www.deltaco.com. n APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE FOR POSITIONS WITH GRAND JUNCTION PARKS AND RECREATION Applications are now available for seasonal and part-time jobs with the City of Grand Junction Parks and Recreation Department.

Positions with the parks division offer opportunities to develop skills in construction management, invasive plant management, landscaping, trail maintenance and water conservation. Positions with recreation division offer experience in child care, education, life-saving skills and safety.

Seasonal and part-time positions are structured around career development and offer flexible scheduling to accommodate family and school responsibilities. Start dates vary based on position, with the earliest start dates beginning at the end of March.

For applications and more information about employment opportunities with the City of Grand Junction, visit the website at at www.gjcity.org/jobs. n ALPINE BANK ANNOUNCES AMOUNTS OF UPCOMING QUARTERLY DIVIDENDS Alpine Banks of Colorado will pay quarterly cash dividends on Jan. 31.

The bank announced plans to pay a dividend of 18 cents per class B nonvoting common share and $27 per class A voting common share. Those dividends represent a 12.5 percent increase over dividends paid the previous quarter.

A $6.2 billion employee-owned organization headquartered in Glenwood Springs, Alpine Bank operates locations across Colorado and serves more than 160,000 customers. For more information, visit www.alpinebank.com.

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January 20-February 2, 2022

NOTEWORTHY

Healthcare Management based in Grand Junction celebrates its 30th year in business in 2022.

“Rural hospitals around the country are closing at an alarming rate.

But organizations in Colorado and Moab, Utah, have managed to innovate and Angelina Salazar develop solutions to ensure the best of health care in their communities,” said Angelina Salazar, chief executive officer of Healthcare Management. “HCM is a wonderful example of our hospitals and health care providers collaborating to improve rural health care.”

Twelve health care providers and members of the Western Healthcare Alliance purchased A-1 Collection Agency to form Healthcare Management, the parent company for A-1 Collection and AR Services.

Now owned by 21 health care providers, Healthcare Management provides billing and collection services for hospitals, health care systems, physician groups and skilled nursing facilities.

Over the years, Healthcare Management has grown into an operation providing a range of business, billing, collection and legal services to a total of more than 3,400 clients. The staff has grown from a handful of employees who shared an office to 78 employees who work in a 73,000-square-foot building.

“It’s a privilege for HCM to support rural health care by providing valuable revenue cycle services,” said Bill Raimer, chief financial officer. “We look forward to serving our members and clients and their patients and communities for another 30 years.”

For more information about Healthcare Management, visit www.hcmcolorado.com.

January 20-February 2, 2022

The Business Times

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BusinessBriefs Briefs Business BusinessPeople People Almanac Business Almanac

n DIGITAL MARKETING FIRM ANNOUNCES PROMOTION OF CEO

John Walden has been promoted to chief executive officer and head of sales at MySalesButler, a digital marketing firm based in Grand Junction and New Orleans.

Walden succeeds Bryan Wachs, former CEO and co-founder. Wachs has moved away from day-to-day management responsibilities to a role John Walden as chairman of an advisory board.

Dan Charles, the other co-founder, will remain chief technology officer.

Walden has served since 2017 as the primary account manager and marketing resource manager. His promotion to CEO originally was scheduled for early 2020, but delayed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. He brings to his latest position experience as a marketing professional and entrepreneur.

“John did an amazing job bringing us and our clients through the rough waters of COVID, and we are excited for him to continue that momentum,” Charles said.

Wachs agreed. “We’re looking forward to 2022 and the opportunities for growth that John’s leadership with bring.”

Walden said he’s optimistic about the year ahead.

“There are so many opportunities for a digital-focused firm like MySalesButler. We’ve learned a lot of resilience over the last couple of years, and I’m ready to bring new focus to the role.”

MySalesButler helps clients complete their marketing tasks without the overhead, vetting processes and turnover associated with hiring staff or outsourcing services. The company offers services related to marketing automation, online sales and social media. For more information, call 364-0444 or log on to www.MySalesButler.com. n COLORAMO FEDERAL CREDIT UNION NAMES VP OF COMMERCIAL BANKING Jeff Cyriacks has joined Coloramo Federal Credit Union in Grand Junction to lead business lending efforts as the senior vice president of commercial banking.

Cyriacks brings to his latest position more 30 years of banking experience.

He began his career after graduating from what was at the time Mesa State College in Grand Juncton and worked Jeff Cyriacks for Coloramo in the late 1990s.

Cyriacks said he values relationships and building a strong community through credit unions. He also said he’s looking forward to meeting the needs of small and medium businesses.

Coloramo Federal Credit Union operates its main branch at 516 28 Road in Grand Junction as well as an Orchard Mesa branch at 2706 U.S. Highway 50 and a Fruita branch at 333 W. Aspen Ave. For more information, call 243-7280 or visit www.coloramo.org.

The Business Times

SHARE YOUR NEWS The Business Times welcomes submissions for free publication in Business People and the Almanac calendar of events. Email submissions to phil@thebusinesstimes.com or submit a news release online at www.thebusinesstimes.com. n COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE NAMES NORTHWEST REGION MANAGER Travis Black has been promoted to manager of the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Northwest Region based in Grand Junction.

“This is an enormous honor and an exciting challenge,” Black said.

“The Northwest Region with its rural, wide-open spaces feels like my home in Lamar and back in Texas. And it presents fascinating wildlife management Travis Black opportunities. I’m thrilled to be leading the excellent CPW team of wildlife officers, biologists and park rangers in the Northwest Region to tackle these issues.”

Black joined what was at the time the Colorado Division of Wildlife in 1999 as a district wildlife manager and subsequently served as an area wildlife manager based in Lamar and deputy regional manager of the Southeast Region in Colorado Springs. He holds a bachelor’s degree in biology and served four years in the Army.

Dan Prenzlow, director of Colorado Parks and Wildlife, praised the promotion. “After working with Travis for more than 20 years, I have great respect for him and confidence in his leadership skills. I believe Travis is a perfect fit for the Northwest Region and will faithfully guide our wildlife management and state parks there for many years.” n FOUR MESA COUNTY RESIDENTS APPOINTED TO STATE GROUPS Four Mesa County residents have been appointed to state councils, commissions and committees.

Michelle Sunkel, an assistant professor at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction, was appointed to the Colorado Human Trafficking Council. She serves on the council as a representative of a college or university department that conducts research on human trafficking.

The council works to prevent human trafficking in Colorado and assist victims and survivors of trafficking.

Daniella Correea Shively, managing attorney of Colorado Legal Services in Grand Junction, and David Combs of Clifton were appointed to the 21st Judicial District Judicial Nominating Commission. The two serve on the commission as unaffiliated members from Mesa County. The commission selects nominees for district and county judicial vacancies.

Travis Black of Grand Junction, manager of the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Northwest Region, was appointed to the Colorado Wildlife Habitat Stamp Committee. The committee reviews and recommends proposed projects paid with habitat stamp funding.

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January 20-February 2, 2022

Jan. 20 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Thursday Friends networking lunch, noon, Cattleman’s Bar Grill, 1369 12 1/2 Road, Loma.

858-3894 or https://fruitachamber.org Jan. 21 n Coffee Club Networking Group, 9 to 10 a.m., FWorks, 325 E. Aspen Ave. Fruita. 858-3894 or https://fruitachamber.org Jan. 25 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business pints, paints and tarot reading event, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Copper Club Brewing Co., 153 N. Mulberry St., Fruita. Admission $30.

858-3894 or https://fruitachamber.org Jan. 27 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Thursday Friends networking lunch, noon, Suds Brothers Brewery, 127 E. Aspen Ave., Fruita.

858-3894 or https://fruitachamber.org n Business startup workshop, 1 to 4:30 p.m., Business Incubator Center, 2591 Legacy Way, Grand Junction. Admission $55. 243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org Jan. 28 n Finance Friday free webinar, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org Upcoming n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business networking luncheon, noon to 1 p.m.

Feb. 3, JXN Station, 571 25 Road, Grand Junction.

Participants should bring a soup, salad or side dish to share. 858-3894 or https://fruitachamber.org n Business startup workshop, 1 to 4:30 p.m. Feb. 3, Business Incubator Center. Admission $55.

243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce annual banquet, 5 to 10 p.m., Feb. 5, Fruita Community Center, 324 N. Coulson St. Admission $50 for chamber members, $60 for others. Corporate sponsor tables for eight $500. 858-3894 or https://fruitachamber.org n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Feb. 10, Axeology, 2487 Industrial Blvd., Grand Junction. Admission $5 for chamber members, $10 for others. 858-3894 or https://fruitachamber.org n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Feb. 22, Railyard at Rimrock, 800 Railyard Loop. Admission $10 in advance, $12 at the door. https://gjchamber.org or 242-3214 n Initiate marketing and communications conference, Feb. 24 and 25, DoubleTree hotel, 743 Horizon Drive, Grand Junction. Admission $99 to $399. www.initiateconference.com n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce annual banquet, 6 to 11:30 p.m. March 4, Grand Junction Convention Center, 159 Main St. 242-3214 or https://gjchamber.org F

January 20-February 2, 2022

The Business Times

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The Business Times

January 20-February 2, 2022