The Business Times Volume 28 Issue 4

THE BUSINESS T IMES News FEBRUARY 25-MARCH 10, 2021

VOLUME 28, ISSUE 4

THE DEFINITIVE SOURCE FOR GRAND JUNCTION BUSINESS NEWS SINCE 1994

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In this issue

Trends 2 Contributors Opinion 4 Business Briefs 5 Business People Almanac

n Historic gifts

A health sciences center is set to soon open at Colorado Mesa University, funded in part by unprecedented gifts.

n Down to business Grand Junction City Council candidates got down to business in addressing issues during a virtual chamber forum.

n Educational effort Mesa County School District 51 has expanded a program enabling students to earn high school and college diplomas.

n Route takes flight

6

Allegiant has launched nonstop air service between Grand Junction and Southern California with twice-weekly flights.

n Taxing matters A measure of sales activity in Grand Junction during the holiday season increased with higher tax collections.

For the health of it

6

n Bogus claims

17

Along with an increase in unemployment insurance claims in the pandemic, there’s been a rise in bogus claims.

n Network promotes efforts to improve care and lower costs. See page 2

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

Dr. Michael Pramenko and Ashley Thurow oversee efforts at Monument Health, a clinically integrated network based in Grand Junction. Pramenko serves as chief medical officer, while Thurow was just hired as executive director.

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Page 2

February 25-March 10, 2021

Trends Striving Contributors for the health of it Opinion A Business Briefs Business People Almanac Executives of health care network promote collaborative efforts to offer better care at lower cost

Dr. Michael Pramenko and Ashley Thurow oversee Monument Health, a clinically integrated network based in Grand Junction. The organization promotes collaborative efforts among doctors, hospitals, insurers and employers to improve health care while also lowering costs.

Pramenko serves as chief medical officer, while Thurow was hired as the new executive director.

shley Thurow and Michael Pramenko advocate for collaborative efforts they believe will turn what they consider sick care into health care.

By integrating services, promoting preventive measures and rewarding providers for outcomes, Thurow and Pramenko insist it’s possible to offer better care at lower cost. And that’s a benefit not only for individual patients, but also businesses that depend on healthy work forces even as they shoulder growing insurance premiums.

The alternative FOR YOUR INFORMATION is an unsustainable system, says Thurow, For more information about the new executive Monument Health and employer, director of Monument family and individual plans, call Health, a clinically 683-5630 or visit the website at integrated health care https://monumenthealth.net. network based in Grand Junction.

“We can’t afford for it to continue to be this way.”

Pramenko, a primary care doctor who just started his position with Monument Health as chief medical officer, says the network has assumed a leading role since its inception four years ago. ”The progress that has been made is in the right direction.”

Monument Health announced in a span of less than a week the hiring of Thurow and Pramenko.

Thurow brings to her duties more than a decade of experience in helping organizations transition to value-based health care models.

She worked as director of payer contracting and value-based care for Children’s Hospital Colorado. She supported the organization with value-based and traditional fee-for-service contracting and grew a pediatric clinically integrated network through payer partnerships.

While working at Evolent Health and Deloitte, she consulted with more than 80 organizations across the country on population health care efforts, including accountable care organizations and provider-sponsored health plans.

See HEALTH page 10

STORY AND PHOTO BY PHIL CASTLE

Historic donation to help fund new CMU health center Phil Castle

The Business Times

A new health sciences center is scheduled to open this fall at Colorado Mesa University, a facility funded in part by an unprecedented donation.

SCL Health St. Mary’s Medical Center contributed $3 million to the $13 million project under construction on the Grand Junction campus. That’s the largest donation St. Mary’s has ever made and CMU has ever received.

“It is truly an enabling gift,” said CMU President Tim Foster.

St. Mary’s President Byran Johnson said he considers the donation an investment in CMU students and programs that in turn will help meet growing demand for health care providers in Western Colorado. “It’s critical to be able to carry out our mission.”

What will be named the St. Mary’s SCL Health Medical Education Center will include in a 20,000-square-foot building two classrooms as well as instructional laboratories

Tim Foster

Bryan Johnson

Amy Bronson

and clinical space for treating patients, said Amy Bronson, director of the master’s of physician assistant studies program at CMU. The center will house degree programs in physician assistant studies as well as occupational and physical therapy, Bronson said.

The center also will accommodate increased student enrollment in those programs, she said.

Foster said the health sciences center long has topped

a list of priorities for state funding, but the money was diverted to help pay for all-day kindergarten instruction across Colorado. The latest promise of funding was rescinded because of the effects of the coronavirus pandemic on the state budget.

It was decided to proceed with construction of the center and seek funding elsewhere. The donation from St. Mary’s made the project possible, he said. “It’s just a huge shot forward. The largest gift couldn’t have come at a better time.”

Additional donations will help pay for the project — including $1 million from Community Hospital, the largest contribution ever for the Grand Junction hospital.

The donation from St. Mary’s constitutes what Foster called the latest chapter in a long story of collaboration between the hospital and CMU. In 1946, the board of trustees for what was at that time Mesa College donated land in Grand Junction where the St. Mary’s Medical Center now operates.

See CENTER page 12

February 25-March 10, 2021

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well-rounded perspective to new Mesa County role Phil Castle

as well as New England and Canada.

Whidden said people who work in Mark McCallister Rick Taggart Greg Haitz technology Dennis information aren’tSimpson just “geeks,” Frank Whidden brings what he but offer an important perspective because considers a well-rounded perspective to his they’re familiar with nearly every aspect of new job as Mesa County administrator. operations and how work gets done. They Whidden worked also tend to think about new and potentially in information better ways of doing things in asking and technology and holds answering “what if ” questions. “They know a master’s degree in how to effect change in an organization.” computer information Whidden expects to bring that same systems. But he also approach to his duties as administrator. holds a doctoral Whidden said it’s his role to help Jody Green Kraig Andrews Randall degree in applied Abe Herman county commissioners makeReitz and then management and implement decisions. The commissioners decision making and Frank Whidden in turn represent the residents of the worked for more than county and express their will, he said. “We 20 years as a minister. Whidden has work for the people.” worked for large and small organizations Whidden said he also considers himself in both the private and public sectors. a liaison between the commissioners and Whidden expects to draw on all of his county staff, and one of the priorities is to experiences in helping Mesa County make sure employees feel valued. Whidden Phil Castle commissioners make and carry out decisions. said he hopes not only to improve morale, Business Valuing staff and making the The county butTimes also take steps that will make Mesa an employer of choice is among the County an organization for which people Eight candidates Grand Junction Council voiced support at a priorities, Whidden said.running So is for planning want toCity work. forum more pandemic and additional infrastructure thatvirtual results in for sustainable fundingrelief andfor businesses Meanwhile, Whidden expects the to accommodate but less regulation. balanced budgets ongrowth, a long-term basis. county to continue policies and initiatives The candidates differed, though, on some of the details as well asand continued Meanwhile, Mesa County will that support local business economic city funding for Colorado Mesa University. continue to pursue efforts that promote a development. There are additional steps The Chamber friendly business environment and that can beGrand taken Junction to make Area it easier for local FOR YOUR INFORMATION businesses of Commerce hosted the Zoom forum, to economic development, Whidden said. to sell products and services which featured all eight candidates Whidden officially began working as the county, he added.

The election is open to voters vying four seats in the April with 6 countywho’ve administrator the beginning MesaforCounty will keep working lived in at Grand Junction of municipal election:entities, Mark McCallister the year.

HeColorado succeeds for TomatFisher, who was other government organizations and least 22 and Rick Taggart in District A, Greg hired days as county in and Summit institutions on fostering an environment prior to manager the election are and Haitz and Dennis Simpson in Districtand registered County, Utah. to vote. Ballots are that supports existing businesses generallyjoined mailedMesa 22 days beforein attracts B, Jody and Abe Herman in Whidden County newGreen businesses, he said. day.

Those who don’t District E and Kraig Andrews Augustelection 2011 as information technology Whidden said there could and be a receive a ballot call deputy the Randall Reitztofor an at-largetheseat.

City director.

In April 2014,should he became opportunities encourage additional clerk’s office at for 244-1509. voters may vote for all the races. countycity administrator resource development of businesses that provide Ballots must be returned by Asked how they’d allocate management in a staffing reorganization services to the agricultural industry as well 7 p.m. April 6. More information pandemic relief County funding asif aadditional that eliminated four director positions. as promote Mesa distribution is available on the city website money to come from the federal Before joining Mesa County, center forwere the region. at www.gjcity.org. government, mostthing candidates said Whidden worked for a company providing The important is to consider support should go to small businesses. information technology services to issues from a well-rounded perspective, Herman In saidthat small businesses and employees the service sector collegesHaitz and and universities. role, he Whidden said. “Wein won’t be myopic as we have been hardest and by the pandemic. he’s talked to restaurateurs who managed IT hit systems services for Haitz looksaid at things.” aren’t sureintheir operations will remain open through the winter. Reitz institutions Alabama, Arizona, Illinois ✦ said businesses heed help to keep people employed.

Andrews said the city should pass through additional funding to provide assistance for housing, food and other needs. “We need to get it into the community where it will do the most good.”

Taggart said additional funding would built on efforts already put into place to help businesses and nonprofits. Simpson said he’d consider options to get “the best bang for the buck.”

Asked about their views on the role of city government in real estate development, most candidates said that role should focus on providing roads and other infrastructure to accommodate growth. McAllister called infrastructure the only role.

Green said public safety also plays a role in supporting growth.

Simpson said city and county planning is needed to allow for growth without urban sprawl.

Randall said Grand Junction is on the cusp of becoming “the next great Colorado city,” but a thoughtful approach is needed to maintain quality of life.

Herman said he concerned there’s a “climate of uncertainty” in land use and zoning decisions. The city also could play a role in ensuring there’s adequate supplies to bring curb rising housing costs, he said.

See HOPEFULS page 14 The Business Times

City council hopefuls get down to business Forum highlights agreement and differences

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February 25-March 10, 2021

District 51 expands on P-TECH programming

More options available to students to earn high school diplomas and associate degrees Phil Castle

The Business Times

Mesa County School District 51 has expanded a program to offer more students an opportunity to simultaneously earn high school diplomas and community college degrees — and in turn promote work force development.

Starting this fall, the Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH) program will include medical and information technology options at Grand Junction High School and construction training at the District 51 Career Center.

Cam Wyatt For two years, Central High School has offered P-TECH programs in machining, mechatronics, mechanical engineering and welding.

More than 50 students are enrolled in the those programs.

Jared Burek, assistant principal at Grand Junction High School, praised the expansion. “We really pride ourselves on having an array of choices for our students,” he said at a news conference at the school.

Cam Wyatt, principal at the Career Center, also welcomed the added training that will be offered there. “This is a great day.”

Under the P-TECH program in District 51, students earn high school diplomas along with associate degrees from Western Colorado Community without paying tuition.

Students can elect to complete the P-TECH program in four to six years. Students could then decide to pursue four-year college degrees, but also will be prepared to enter the work force.

Students at Grand Junction High School may participate in associate degree programs for medical laboratory technology, medical office assistant or veterinary technology as well as information and communications technology.

The P-TECH program at the Career Center is open to any District 51 student and offers associate degrees in construction as well as electric lineworker and land surveying and geomatics.

The program at the Career Center is the first to be offered district-wide in Colorado.

Cheri Taylor, District 51 career and college readiness director, said business

Diana Sirko, superintendent of Mesa County School District 51, discusses the expansion of the P-TECH program to Grand Junction School High School and District 51 Career Center.

(Business Times photo by Phil Castle) partnerships make the P-Tech program possible. Businesses offer students mentoring, job shadowing and internships. “That’s what the kids enjoy the most.”

Community Hospital and ProVelocity will partner with the P-TECH programs at Grand Junction High School, while FCI Constructors will partner with the program at the Career Center.

Tim Foster, president of Colorado Mesa University, said the P-TECH program builds on the collaboration among CMU, WCCC, School District 51 and businesses to promote education and work force development.

“This community takes partnerships and sharing to a new level.”

District 51 Superintendent Diana Sirko agreed. “Our community personifies that every day.”

Emma Rose, a senior at Grand Junction High School, won’t enroll in the P-TECH program. But she spoke at the news conference about the benefits of students taking community college courses while they also attend high school.

Rose said she’s earned 16 college credits and expects to earn 14 more credits before she graduates from high school this spring. She said she plans to become a nurse practitioner.

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FOR YOUR INFORMATION Students interested in enrolling in P-TECH programs can apply on their school websites or contact Cheri Taylor at cheryl.taylor@d51schools.org, Chris Mack at Grand Junction High School, Cam Wyatt at the Career Center or Kerri Spore at Central High School.

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Allegiant service to Southern California takes flight

Allegiant has launched nonstop air service between Grand Junction and southern California.

The company offers twice-weekly flights between Grand Junction Regional Airport and John Wayne Airport in Orange County.

“The Los Angeles basin is the largest market for travel to and from Grand Junction, and we are thrilled to see nonstop, Angela Padalecki year-round service from our partners at Allegiant,” said Angela Padalecki, executive director of the Grand Junction Regional Airport. “We are grateful for Allegiant’s confidence in our market and thankful passengers

choose to fly GJT and make new routes like this successful.”

Drew Wells, senior vice president of revenue for Allegiant, said the Grand Valley also offers an attractive destination.

“Outdoor enthusiasts from Orange County will have a lot to discover in Grand Junction, including vineyards, biking trails, rivers and lakes and beautiful mountain vistas. We’re exited to connect these two cities with affordable, nonstop service.”

Allegiant also provides air service from Grand Junction to Las Vegas and Mesa, Ariz.

Based in Las Vegas, Allegiant provides air service from small cities to resort destinations, operating routes across the country. The company also provides customers with hotel accommodations, rental cars and other travel-related services.

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February 25-March 10, 2021

City reports increase in sales tax collections

A measure of sales activity in Grand Junction during the holiday shopping season increased.

The city reported collecting more than $5.3 million in sales taxes in January.

That’s an increase of nearly $100,000 and 1.9 percent over what was collected during the same month last year.

January collections reflect December sales and a portion of the holiday shopping season.

The city collected $82,303 in use taxes, a far smaller and more volatile source of revenue based on taxes on the construction and oil and natural gas sectors. That was a decrease of $85,036 and 50.8 percent from January a year ago.

Counting its share of Mesa County sales tax revenue, the city collected a total of more than $6 million in sales and use taxes in January. That’s an increase of $39,294 and seven-tenths of a percent over January 2020.

For all of 2020, the city collected a total of more than $57 million in sales and use taxes. That’s a decrease of $1.1 million and 1.9 percent from 2019.

City sales tax collections fell 2 percent.

Use tax collections declined 37.8 percent.

For January 2021, the city also collected $72,043 in lodging taxes on hotel and motel stays. That was a decrease of $23,938 and 24.9 percent over the same month in 2020.

For all of 2020, the city collected more than $1.1 million in lodging taxes. That was a decrease of more than $540,000 and 31.8 percent from 2019.

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Applications sought for exporting awards Applications will be accepted through March 15 for annual awards recognizing Colorado companies for their exporting efforts.

The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade plans to bestow the 2021 Governor’s Awards for Excellence in Exporting as part of World Trade Day in May. The awards recognize economic growth through international business. By one estimate, Colorado exported $8.3 billion in products in 2020.

To participate in the awards program, companies must be based in Colorado and exported products or services for at least two years. Companies may nominate themselves of other companies.

For more information about the program, including eligibility criteria, visit https://oedit.colorado.gov/governors-awardfor-excellence-in-exporting.

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February 25-March 10, 2021

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HR firm marks first year under new name A human resource management consulting firm based in Grand Junction has marked its first year in operation under a new name and branding strategy.

Lighthouse HR Support combined under one name the operations of what were formerly Background Research, Employer Representatives and Krey Benefit Solutions.

“We are excited to continue the journey we started last year amid all the chaos of 2020. Ed Krey I am very proud of our team at Lighthouse HR Support and confident we will be able to help other businesses navigate through the HR pitfalls and questions that arise,” said Ed Krey, the owner.

Over the past year, Lighthouse HR Support has provided services and information to more than 600 business professionals.

Lighthouse HR Support provides a range of services to help clients manage employee relations, group benefits, training needs and unemployment insurance costs. The firm offers pre-employment background screening, exit interviews and termination services as well as help with employee handbooks, job descriptions and wage analysis.

The company also offers a complimentary employment law compliance newsletter that’s helped employers respond to changing requirements in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, Krey said.

Krey said he expects Lighthouse HR Support to offer in coming months a new learning management system, continuous background screening and a self-directed human resource support program.

For more information, visit https://lighthousehrs.net.

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February 25-March 10, 2021

Community switches to new records system

Community Hospital in Grand Junction has switched to a new electronic medical records system.

The Meditech Expanse system enables hospital staff to provide safe, quality care while also improving communication and coordination between teams, said Bart Bart Butzine Butzine, the chief information officer at Community Hospital.

In addition, the system offers patients an improved online portal with features to better manage their care.

“Our team has worked tirelessly to get this EMR off the ground,” Butzine said. “I am extremely proud to be part of an organization that continually invests in our patients’ health.”

Hospital staff helped select the Meditech Expanse system.

The system provides a central source of medical records. Regardless of where a patient is treated in the Community Hospital network, providers have access to their records.

That improves efficiency and gives providers more time to spend with patients, Butzine said.

The online portal offers patients tools to manage their care, including the ability to send direct messages to providers. Providers also can use the portal to track patient progress.

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Insurance enrollment extended to May 15

Hilltop Health Access will continue to offer information and assistance to uninsured people under a health insurance enrollment period that’s been extended to May 15.

A certified assistance site for Connect for Health, Hilltop Health Access offers help with navigating the online enrollment process — from comparing coverage options to determining if tax credits are available based on income to enrolling for coverage.

Depending on their income, people could qualify for tax credits that could save them thousands of dollars on health insurance premiums over the course of a year.

Last year, thousands of Colorado residents didn’t take advantage of tax credits that could have reduced the cost of their insurance.

For more information about Hilltop Health Access, call 244-0850 or visit the website at www.hilltophealthaccess.org.

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February 25-March 10, 2021

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Health

Continued from page 2 A certified public accountant, Thurow holds business degrees from the University of Arizona and George Washington University.

Pramenko, who also serves as chairman of the Monument Health board of directors, says Thurow was hired because of her experience and passion — as well as her belief some disruption could be necessary to improve health care.

Thurow says she was attracted to Monument Health because of the partnerships in place among doctors, hospitals, insurance companies and employer groups that are required to improve health care. “I think it really has all the right elements.”

The Business Times

Pramenko, a doctor with the Primary Care Partners physician group in Grand Junction, has been involved with Monument Health since before its inception.

As chief medical officer, Pramenko says he’ll work with administrators and health care providers to improve efficiency and quality while reducing waste. He says he brings to the newly created position the experience and perspective of a clinician who understands medical practices and relates to other practitioners.

Monument Health integrates efforts among doctors, hospitals, insurance companies and employer groups to provide health care.

Since its inception in 2016, the network has grown to include more than 200 primary care providers and nearly 1,000 specialists in Western Colorado.

The network includes St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center in Grand Junction as well as Family Health West and its Colorado Canyons Medical Center in Fruita and Delta County Memorial Hospital in Delta.

The network serves about 20,000 patients, Thurow says. Of those, more than half are covered under employer-sponsored health insurance. Another 3,900 are covered under the Medicare Advantage program and 3,350 enrolled as individuals under the Connection for Health Colorado exchange.

February 25-March 10, 2021

Pramenko says Monument Health has played a role in lowering health care costs and in turn insurance premiums.

One contributing factor has been to obtain lower prices for services under contracts with health care providers in the network.

“That’s been a success.”

Primary Care Partners used to face annual increases in insurance premiums of more than 20 percent, Pramenko said.

Under Monument Health, the increases have decreased to single digits. “It’s night and day for us.”

Additional efforts are planned, Thurow and Pramenko says.

Thurow says she expects Monument Health to continue to expand the number of patients it covers and geographic service area as well as the types of health plans and clinical programs offered.

In a broader sense, Pramenko says it’s important to improve communication among providers, insurers and patients to align services. That improves outcomes and increases efficiency while also reducing unnecessary services and waste.

In shifting from payments based on quality rather than quantity, providers that achieve measurable results and lower costs share in the money from savings, he says.

Pramenko says another way to improve care while lowering cost is to devote more resources to preventive measures that identify and treat problems before they become more serious.

Thurow says efforts that promote wellness whether at single business or in an entire population pay off in lowering health care costs over the long term.

Pramenko says improving care and lowering costs is not only a health care issue, but also a business issue.

Businesses depend on healthy work forces to operate. Money that’s not spent on health insurance can be allocated to other uses, such as additional staff or equipment to expand operations.

Health care becomes an economic development issue, he says, because it’s an important criteria businesses consider in relocating operations.

Monument Health is leading efforts, Thurow and Pramenko say, in turning sick care into health care.

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February 25-March 10, 2021

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February 25-March 10, 2021

Applications sought for relief grants

The application deadline has been extended for grants intended to help small businesses endure the effects of the coronavirus pandemic and related restrictions.

Mesa County announced it extended the deadline for the next round of applications for the Small Business Relief Program until 5 p.m.

March 10.

“After hearing from our local businesses Pete Baier and constituents, Mesa County requested and received a program extension from the Department of Local Affairs,” said Pete Baier, Mesa County Administrator.

The Small Business Relief Program offers one-time awards of up to $3,500, $5,000 or $7,000 per business applicant based on annual income.

The Colorado Department of Local Affairs awarded Mesa County more than $956,000 to distribute under the program.

For additional information about Small Business Relief Program grants, including eligibility requirements and the application process, visit the website at https://www.mesacounty.us/ administration/small-business-reliefprogram.

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Center

Continued from page 2 What’s now CMU has expanded over the years degree programs in nursing and other health care fields to help meet the needs of St. Mary’s and other providers, Foster said.

Students who complete CMU programs tend to stay in the region to work and live, he said.

Johnson said the additional programs offered at the new health sciences center will help in meeting demand for those professionals.

Lydia Jumonville, president and chief executive officer of SCL Health, which operates St. Mary’s, said a growing work force will be needed to keep pace with services in Western Colorado. “SCL Health is dedicated to expanding access to affordable and reliable health services in this region. It’s why our investment in CMU and this program makes so much sense.”

Bronson agreed. “In addition to a much-needed building, the investment helps create an ability to continuously adapt the needs of each organization to one another’s and work together to prepare students to enter the medical and health work force.”

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February 25-March 10, 2021

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February 25-March 10, 2021

Hopefuls

Continued from page 4 Asked about their views on reducing regulations, most candidates said they favored fewer regulations.

“It’s all about eliminating roadblocks,” Herman said.

Haitz said government processes should be streamlined where possible, and he’d also consider a moratorium on some fees.

McCallister said some fees should be reduced or eliminated.

Taggart said the city doesn’t require business licenses, but permitting can be a difficult and complicated process. “We need to let entrepreneurs build the businesses and stay out of the way.”

Dennis said regulations with no purposes should be eliminated, but some regulations are needed. “It’s not a simplistic problem.”

The candidates differed on whether or not the city should continue to provide funding for Colorado Mesa University and other organizations.

McCallister said funding should be allocated elsewhere. “CMU is doing fine on its own.”

Green also said funding could be used elsewhere — to help small businesses, for example.

Simpson said the city shouldn’t commit to funding over a multi-year period without a vote. While contributions to CMU could continue, he said there are also other needs.

Haitz said he’d consider revisiting the relationship.

Other candidates disagreed.

Taggart called the partnership between the city and CMU “critical.”

The city contributes $500,000 for scholarships for Mesa County School District 51 students to pursue additional education after high school. Funding also supports CMU programs that in turn support work force development, he said.

By one estimate, CMU contributes nearly $539 million a year to the economy of a 14-county region of Western Colorado that includes Grand Junction.

“That’s a pretty good return on investment,” Taggart said.

Herman and Andrews said they supported the partnership with CMU and what they said was an investment in work force development and keeping more young people in the community.

Reitz said CMU offers a shared benefit that requires a shared burden.

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News Trends Filings offer encouragement Contributors Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac

February 25-March 10, 2021

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Page 15

INDICATORS AT A GLANCE

n Business filings

s New business filings in Colorado, 34,630 in the fourth quarter, up 22.1% from the fourth quarter of 2019.

n Confidence

s Consumer Confidence Index 91.3 in February, up 2.4. n Leeds Business Confidence Index for Colorado, 47.9 for the first quarter, unchanged. t National Federation of Independent Business Small Business Optimism Index 95.0 for January, down 0.9.

n Foreclosures

t Foreclosure filings in Mesa County, 0 in January, down from 25 in January 2020. t Foreclosure sales in Mesa County, 0 in January, down from 5 in January 2020.

n Indexes

s Conference Board Employment Trends Index, 99.27 for January, up 0.72. s Conference Board Leading Economic Index 110.3 for January, up 0.5%. t Institute for Supply Management Purchasing Managers Index for manufacturing, 58.7% for January, down 1.8%.

n Lodging

t Lodging tax collections in Grand Junction, $73,043 for January, down 24.9% from January 2020.

n Real estate

s Real estate transactions in Mesa County, 391 in January, up 22.6% from January 2020. s Dollar volume of real estate transactions in Mesa County, $116 million in January, up 12.6% from January 2020.

n Sales

s Sales and use tax collections in Grand Junction, $6 million for January, up 0.7% from January 2020. s Sales and use tax collections in Mesa County, $3.9 million for January, up 7% from January 2020.

n Unemployment s Mesa County — 8.2% for December, up 2.1. s Colorado — 8.4% for December, up 2.0. t United States — 6.3% for January, down 0.4.

Colorado new business filings increase on a year-over-year basis Business filings increased in Colorado at the end of 2020, offering encouragement for improving economic conditions in the face of declining employment.

“Despite the sagging economy at the end of the fourth quarter, there are many reasons for optimism,” said Richard Wobbekind, senior economist in the business research division of the Leeds School of Business at the University of Colorado at Boulder.

“But the road ahead of us is likely a long one with respect to regaining out lost jobs,” Wobbekind said.

Jena Griswold, Colorado secretary of R. Wobbekind state, agreed. “This latest state economic indicators report shows that while we have seen improvement in our economy since last spring, total recovery remains distant.

Colorado’s economy continues to be tested.

But with slow and steady gains, there is still reason for Coloradans to be optimistic that improvement will continue into 2021.”

According to a report compiled by the Leeds School of Business based on statistics Jena Griswold from the Colorado Secretary of State’s office, initial filings of new companies, corporations, nonprofit organizations and other entities rose during the fourth quarter of 2020 compared to same quarter in 2019.

A total of 34,630 new entity filings were recorded during the fourth quarter of 2020, a 22.1 percent year-over-year increase.

New filings for domestic corporations rose 39.3 percent, while new filings for limited liability companies rose 24.5 percent.

For all of 2020, 134,373 new entity filings were recorded.

That’s an increase of 5.7 percent over 2019.

New entity filings offer a leading indicator of business growth and jobs.

A total of 148,019 renewals for existing entities were recorded during the fourth quarter of 2020. That’s an 11.5 percent increase over the fourth quarter of 2019. Filings increased for trade names,

Colorado rural index declines

A monthly measure of the rural economy in Colorado continues to decline.

The Creighton University Rural Mainstreet Index for Colorado dropped six points to 35.6 in February.

The overall Rural Mainstreet Index for a 10-state region that includes Colorado rose to 53.8. That’s the highest reading since January 2020 and the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. The index ranges from 0 to 100, with readings above 50 reflecting growth.

In Colorado, a component of the index tracking hiring rose two points to 43.8, but the farm and ranch land price index slipped two-tenths of a point to 51.1.

Over the past year, nonfarm employment in rural areas of the state has declined 10.2 percent, compared to a 4.6 percent decrease in urban areas.

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but slipped for trademarks.

Still, dissolution filings also increased during the fourth quarter — up 8.1 percent from year ago to 10,043. Businesses often file dissolution paperwork after ending operations.

The overall number of companies, corporations and other entities in operation in Colorado continues to increase. For the fourth quarter, there were 803,601 entities in good standing. That’s a 6.9 percent game over the fourth quarter of last year.

Meanwhile, though, labor conditions worsened at the end of 2020.

The statewide seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose two points to 8.4 percent in December as nonfarm payrolls decreased 20,300 from November.

Over the past year, the state jobless rate has increased fourfold as payrolls have decreased nearly 151,000. Since May, the state has gained back 191,500 of the 342,300 jobs lost during the onset of the pandemic between February and April.

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Index: Consumers more stirred than shaken A measure of consumer confidence has increased on more upbeat assessments of business and labor conditions.

The Conference Board reported its Consumer Confidence Index rose 2.4 points to 91.3 in January. A component of the index tracking current conditions increased after three straight months of decreases.

“This course reversal suggests economic growth has not slowed further,” said Lynn Franco, senior director of economic indicators at the Conference Board.

A component of the index tracking short- Lynn Franco term expectations decreased, but Franco said consumers remain cautiously optimistic overall.

“Notably, vacation intentions — particularly plans to travel outside the U.S. and via air — saw an uptick this month and are poised to improve further as vaccination efforts expand,” she said.

The Conference Board bases the index on the results of monthly household surveys. Economists monitor the index because consumer spending accounts for more than two-thirds of economic activity in the country.

For January, more optimistic assessments of business and labor conditions pulled up the present situation component of the index 6.5 points to 92.

The proportion of consumers responding to the survey upon which the latest index results were based who described business conditions as “good” rose seven-tenths of a point to 16.5 percent.

The share of consumers who called conditions “bad” fell 2.5 points to 39.9 percent.

The proportion of consumers who said jobs are “plentiful” rose 1.9 points to 21.9 percent. The share of those who said jobs are “hard to get” fell 1.3 points to 21.2 percent.

Less upbeat responses pulled down the expectations component of the index four-tenths of a point to 90.8 The share of consumers who said they expect business conditions to improve over the next six months fell 3.1 points to 31 percent. The proportion of those who said they expect worsening conditions also declined, though — 1.3 points to 17.7 percent.

The share of consumers who said they expect more jobs to become available in coming months fell 4.3 points to 26.1 percent.

The proportion of those who forecast fewer jobs fell 1.5 points to 20.6 percent.

Asked about their expectations for income, 15.2 percent of those who responded said they anticipated increases — down six-tenths of a point. Meanwhile, 13.2 percent said they expected decreases — down 2.3 points.

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Page 16

The Business Times

RentaSpace.DiegoCorp.com

February 25-March 10, 2021

Leading index signals growth through 2021

A monthly index forecasting economic conditions in the United States continues to increase, signaling gradual growth in the year ahead.

The Conference Board reported its Leading Economic Index rose a half percent to 110.3 in January. A separate measure of current conditions also increased, while a measure of past performance decreased.

AtamanOzyildirim, the senior director of economic research at the Conference Board, said the index forecasts growth in the first half of 2021 as well as beyond. “As the vaccination campaign COVID-19 Ataman Ozyilidirim against accelerates, labor markets and overall growth are likely to continue improving through the rest of this year as well.”

Ozyildirim said the Conference Board forecasts 4.4 percent growth in the economy in 2021 after a 3.5 percent contraction in 2020.

The Leading Economic Index rose 5.1 percent over the past six months, nearly reversing a 6.3 percent decline over the six months before that. Strengths among the indicators in the index were widespread.

Gross domestic product, the broad measure of goods and services produced in the country, expanded at an annual rate of 4 percent in the fourth quarter of 2020 after jumping 33.4 percent in the third quarter.

For January, seven of 10 indicators of the Leading Economic Index advanced, including average weekly manufacturing hours, building permits, interest rate spread, leading credit and new orders indexes, new orders for consumer goods and stock prices. An increase in average weekly initial claims for unemployment benefits pulled down the index So did consumer expectations for business conditions and new orders for capital goods.

The Coincident Economic Index, a measure of current conditions, increased two-tenths of a percent to 103.3. The index rose 2.5 percent over the past six months.

For January, all four indicators of the index advanced: industrial production, nonfarm payrolls, personal income and sales.

The Lagging Economic Index, a measure of past performance, decreased six-tenth of a percent to 106.2. The index edged down a tenth of a percent over the past three months.

For January, two of seven components of the index advanced in consumer credit and the cost of labor. An increase in the average duration of unemployment pulled down the index. So did commercial and industrial financing and cost of services.

The average prime rate charged by banks and inventories held steady.

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Trends Contributors Opinionbogus claims Beware Business Briefs Business People Almanac

February 25-March 10, 2021

The Business Times

Page 17

COMING ATTRACTIONS

n The Business Incubator Center in Grand Junction has scheduled events offering information about startups and valuations.

The next business startup webinar is set for 9 to 10:30 a.m. March 10 and 11. The next startup workshop is set for 9 to 11:30 a.m.

March 23 at the center, 2591 Legacy Way. The webinar and workshop will cover the business planning process, including financing options, licensing requirements and legal structures. Admission is $55, which also includes admission to Fast Trac classes at the center.

A free business valuation workshop is set for 9 to 10:30 a.m. March 31 at the center.

Participants will learn about the roles of market analysis and business evaluation in developing a realistic business worth assessment.

For more information about upcoming events, services and programs offered at the center, call 243-5242 or visit the website at www.gjincubator.org. n The Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce has scheduled free Zoom webinars on taxes and unemployment fraud.

The tax webinar is set for 10 a.m. Feb 25.

Kathy Cantu from Eide Baily will discuss upcoming legislative tax issues and adjustments to the enterprise zone tax credit.

The fraud webinar is set for 2 p.m. March 4.

Officials from the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment will help participants protect themselves and their businesses from unemployment fraud.

Registration is required. For reservations or more information, visit www.gjchamber.org or call 242-3214. n The Western Colorado Human Resource Association and Bechtel, Santo & Severn law firm have scheduled the 2021 Legislative Conference.

The conference is set for 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

April 21 at the Colorado Mesa University Center ballroom in Grand Junction. A virtual presentation of the conference also is planned.

Early registration is $299 for WCHRA members, $349 for others. Students and special guests pay $99. To register or obtain more information, visit www.wchra.org/events.

Fraudulent unemployment claims on the rise during pandemic Along with the rise in unemployment insurance claims associated with the coronavirus pandemic, there’s been an increase in fraudulent claims as well as other instances of fraud and identity theft.

Brian Krebs, a security news researcher, reported criminal organizations recruited unemployed people to receive direct deposits from fraudulent transactions and then forward the bulk of illicit funds to perpetrators. According to the Department of Labor, the cost to companies and workers could reach $26 billion. Without stringent checks and balances, such unemployment programs as Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Ed Krey could be exploited.

Many states experience hundreds of thousands of these claims, and Colorado is not immune.

To date, the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) has prevented more than 800,000 fraudulent claims and a total of about $7 billion in unearned benefits. Here in Mesa County, some employers have experienced more than 100 claims. Since the average claim comes in at $15,000, the company could face increased premiums as a result.

Businesses definitely need to watch unemployment claims. If employers receive notification an employee filed for unemployment when they’re still working, they must investigate this claim and not accept it at face value. Follow up with each employee, whether currently employed or no longer with the organization, to determine if they actually filed the claim. If the claim is fraudulent, report it to the CDLE and inform the employee they must take action to protect their identity.

Employees sometimes receive warning signs a fraudulent claim exists before the employer finds out.

Regardless of who learns first, certain steps must be taken by the employee. Here are some specific steps employers should share with employees to mitigate some of the effects that could result from fraud, including other forms of identity theft or paying taxes on benefits they didn’t receive. n Be aware if you receive paperwork from the CDLE, a bank card such as the U.S. Bank Reliacard or 1099-G tax form indicating you received benefits for a claim you didn’t file. n If an employee suspects fraud or receives these items, they should submit a fraud report online at https://cdle.colorado.gov/fraud-prevention and click on

the “submit a fraud report” option. n If you received a U.S. Bank Reliacard, deactivate it by contacting U.S. Bank at (855) 282-6161 or (877) 595-6256. If you receive other bank cards, contact the institution immediately to report it as fraud. n If you received a 1099-G tax form, but did not request benefits in 2020 or received a 1099 with incorrect information, visit https://cdle.colorado.gov/tax-form-1099-g for more information.

In addition, the following steps offer some protection for continued identify theft: n Never give out personally identifiable information over the phone. The CDLE will never contact you and ask for your Social Security number, bank account numbers, personal identification number, account passwords or any other personally identifiable information. n Contact the three consumer credit bureaus and put a fraud and identity theft alert on your name and Social Security number. It could be an automated system, so you might not talk to a live person. You’ll have to enter your Social Security number and date of birth. Contact Equifax at (800) 525-6285, Experian at (888) 397-3742 and TransUnion at (800) 680-7289. n You can also report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission at identitytheft.gov. The FTC website includes resources about how to recover from identity theft and protect your identity. n Create a file to keep records relating to identity theft in one central place in case you’re notified of other fraud or breaches of your personal information.

It’s important to take action immediately to stop fraudulent claims. While the claim itself typically causes no harm to an individual’s credit, other outcomes could occur. If an employee truly needs to file a claim, they could discover their benefits have been exhausted. Employers can’t afford increased premiums based on benefits paid to criminals.

Ed Krey owns Lighthouse HR Support, a Grand Junction firm offering human resource services for small and medium-sized businesses. Lighthouse HR Support provides a free online compliance connection at https://lighthousehrs.net/blog. This column also was provided by the Western Colorado Human Resource Association. For more information, visit the website at www.wchra.org.

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Page 18

The Business Times

February 25-March 10, 2021

Hire wisely and develop your team of top performers Do you want to reduce costly turnover? Would you like your business to operate with fewer errors and interruptions to the flow of operations? Are you interested in greater efficiency and productivity?

If you want your experience as a business owner to be more enjoyable and rewarding — and your company increasingly successful — you must build and maintain a dynamic and powerful team. You must put motivated and skilled individuals with positive attitudes in place and then help them realize more of their tremendous potential.

The first step and most effective Marcus way to build a competent, motivated Straub and engaged team is to hire intelligently.

The typical path to hiring people, however, is filled with biased or incorrect information and involves guesswork and assumptions.

How can any business assemble a team of skilled, solution-oriented and motivated people without the reliable data needed to do so?

This is where Job Benchmarking and candidate assessments come in. When this approach is used, productivity rises 30 percent and retention goes up 50 percent. Productivity rises because a team member’s behaviors, core values and competencies align with the duties, responsibilities and rewards of the job. Retention increases because there’s symmetry among the new hire, job and company values. How effective is your hiring process?

The second step of building and maintaining a powerful team requires professional development opportunities. Like the first step, this next one is best accomplished with the help of a trained professional who will work with you, your

You have a wonderful opportunity to help your team members find and develop their strengths and to come alive as active and engaged players in your business.

managers and team members to develop top performers.

The objective here is to help everyone become empowered players so they, your clients and business experience more happiness and success. Do you provide team members with the professional development they need to be their best?

People thrive when praised for a job well done.

Recognizing a team member’s solid effort and working with them in positive and constructive ways to continue reaching for higher levels of excellence builds self-esteem, competency and confidence. That in turn leads to greater levels of performance and job satisfaction. When people believe in themselves, it’s amazing what they can accomplish. How are you doing with this third step of building and maintaining a powerful team?

One of the surest ways to damage a business from within is to hire ineffectively, not support continual learning and growth and undermine team members and their efforts. This last aspect comes about through unconstructive criticism, blame, lack of follow through, ineffective communication and simply not appreciating those individuals who make up the company. These behaviors undermine self-worth, self-confidence and selfesteem in team members and also undermine the culture and credibility of leadership with the team.

Empowering owners, managers and team members to become top performers solves many of the common

problems that arise in business. As each team member develops unique skills, the business runs more efficiently and effectively, the work atmosphere grows more positive, turnover goes down, attendance goes up, client satisfaction increases and the bottom line improves.

Does this sound like the type of business you want to own?

If you find yourself at a loss for how to do this, explore your options and choose a coach or consultant best suited for you. There’s strength in engaging and using quality professional help. By doing so, you’ll not only sidestep costly and time-consuming problems, but also provide a powerful example for your team members to follow.

You have a wonderful opportunity to help your team members find and develop their strengths and to come alive as active and engaged players in your business.

Bring in a qualified professional coach or consultant, use job benchmarking, consistently offer quality professional development opportunities and well-deserved recognition.

Work with your people to become top performers, and your well-chosen team will help you reach new heights in your business operations.

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 208-3150, marcus@ligcoaching.com or through the website located at www.ligcoaching.com.

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February 25-March 10, 2021

The Business Times

Page 19

Cross-purchase agreements offer advantages There are several ways to structure a buy-sell agreement for a business. Two of the most common ways are the cross-purchase agreement and entity purchase (or stock) redemption agreement. This column will focus on the features and benefits of the cross-purchase agreement.

In a cross-purchase agreement, the owners of a business, ranch or farm agree between or among themselves to purchase the interest of a withdrawing, retiring or deceased shareholder. This form of agreement sets up a crisscross structure.

Consider an example involving two owners. They might each own half the business or some other proportion.

Either way, the agreement specifies Janet how and when the one owner will buy Arrowood the other’s share. Owner A agrees to buy 100 percent of the shares or stock of Owner B. The agreement is executed when some sort of triggering event occurs — usually a disability, divorce, death or retirement.

In a situation in which there are three or more owners, whether or not they own equal shares, each owner agrees to buy a predetermined portion of another owner’s shares or stock when one of the triggering events occurs.

With more than two owners, the structure of the agreement can get complicated. Consider the following ownership structure. Owner A owns 40 percent of the company. Owners B and C each own 30 percent. The agreement is for each remaining owner, following a triggering event, to purchase 50 percent of the departing owner’s shares or stock.

If Owner A is the subject of the triggering event, Owners B and C would each acquire 20 percent additional

Why is a cross-purchase agreement so important? Because alternative scenarios and outcomes are painful to consider. What might happen without the ready made market for an owner’s shares or stock when a triggering event occurs?

interest in the business, making each a 50 percent owner.

While this would change the dynamics of the company ownership, no single owner would have a majority interest.

Compromise would be the order of the day.

If Owner B or C is the subject of the triggering event, things could get interesting since Owner A would acquire an additional 15 percent interest for a total of 55 percent. The other owner would only have a 45 percent interest. This could result in some possibly unintended — or undesirable — dynamics. Owner A would go from having to collaborate in the decision-making process to commanding full power to make all decisions and financial commitments.

Why, despite the potential complications, is a crosspurchase agreement so important? Because the alternative scenarios and outcomes are painful to consider. What might happen without the ready made market for an owner’s shares or stock when a triggering event occurs? n If an owner becomes disabled, there might be no plan or means to buy out the interest in the business. This owner would still control shares without contributing to the bottom line. This could result in the business failing, not performing as well as pre-event or (ultimately, through

death or sale) having the shares end up under the control or ownership of someone else. n If an owner wants to retire, the agreement creates an orderly valuation process and means to acquire that owner’s shares or stock so the remaining owner or owners retain control of the business. n If an owner divorces, the agreement can include provisions that prevent the former spouse from acquiring a stake in the business by creating a purchase mechanism for the divorcing owner’s shares or stock. After all, the other owners probably don’t want to be in business with the divorcing owner’s former spouse. Even more important, there are some types of businesses that can only be owned by a qualified individual or group — a law or medical practice, for example. n If an owner dies, the agreement sets out how the shares or stocks will be distributed, ensuring the continued smooth operation and viability of the business. Even more important, the agreement helps reduce the likelihood of the surviving owner or owners going into business with the deceased owner’s heirs.

Disclaimer: This column offers a highly simplified explanation of a complex topic. This column isn’t intended to provide financial, legal, tax or other advice or recommendations. Always consult the appropriate licensed professionals when it comes to business, estate, financial or tax planning.

Janet Arrowood is founder and managing director of the Write Source, a Grand Junction-based firm that offers a range of services, including grant and proposal writing, instruction and technical writing. Reach her at janet.arrowood@thewritesourceinc.com. For more information, visit www.TheWriteSourceInc.com.

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Page 20

The Business Times

February 25-March 10, 2021

Group effort offers training benefits Most people are familiar with one-on-one fitness training sessions. These sessions are available at most health clubs and independent studios. But what’s changed might surprise you.

Crossroads Fitness Centers in Grand Junction is an industry leader in small group personal training. Although the concept seems to have only recently hit the market, we’ve been doing it for years.

So, why is this best kept secret so successful for reaching fitness goals?

Many people believe they can work out alone. Many can. For most of us, though, the reality is we won’t do it with success. Did you know an individual who exercises on their Paula own has a 45 percent dropout rate within the Reece first year. The second year it’s a 52 percent dropout rate. That leaves only a 3 percent rate for someone to succeed with an exercise plan.

Small group training is successful for many reasons. The leader is a personal trainer with knowledge of anatomy, exercise science and nutrition. Because of their education and experience, you feel comfortable in their abilities to train you. Small group training also offers a cost-effective way to work out with a trainer.

The trainer splits the cost of their time between a few people.

Everyone benefits by sharing the cost.

Another benefit of small group training is the variety. Each workout is carefully designed for your group. Classes might include cardiovascular exercise, circuits, core work, interval training and weights.

You also might incorporate some fun and innovative exercise tools into your workouts. Many of these tools require proper technique and form to not only get the most benefit, but also reduce the risk of injury. Some of these tools include kettle bells, plyo boxes, slam balls and suspension training.

One of the most important benefits to achieving your fitness

By having a class you attend two or three times every week with the same trainer and same people, you develop the workout habit. All you have to do is show up.

goals through small group training is structure. By having a class you attend two or three times every week with the same trainer and same people, you develop the workout habit. All you have to do is show up. That structure becomes part of not only your weekly schedule, but also your lifestyle.

The part I like best? The social aspect.

A small group training class can become a close-knit group of people all trying to achieve their individual goals. I’ve seen it over and over at Crossroads Fitness. People who start out exercising together don’t know each other. After a while, they become friends in and out of the club.

Some classes might include businesspeople exercising before work. Others classes might include moms with young children.

Other classes are a mix. Regardless, these people now have a support group that cares about them. And that’s one of the most beneficial aspects of small group training.

Working out in a group yields more success than attempting to do it on your own. Give small group training a try and experience the benefits for yourself. You’ll be amazed to find a trainer and group of people who are there to cheer you on.

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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February 25-March 10, 2021

The Business Times

Marijuana and real estate Grand Junction voters will once again decide whether or not the city council may allow marijuana businesses to operate in the city.

City voters rejected medical marijuana businesses back in 2011. But the issue has returned to the April 6 municipal election ballot.

Provided voters repeal the 2011 measure as well as approve a marijuana tax measure, Tim the council could move Whitney ahead with regulations allowing a marijuana business or businesses in the city.

The question arises: How do marijuana businesses affect commercial real estate?

The National Association of Realtors published a report based on a survey of its members in late 2019. Here’s a summary of the results of the survey: n In states where prescription and recreational marijuana use is legal, 34 percent to 42 percent of NAR members reported increased demand in warehouses, 18 percent to 19 percent reported increased demand for storefronts and 16 percent to 21 percent reported increased demand for land. n While 13 percent to 22 percent of members reported an increase in commercial property values near marijuana dispensaries,

5 percent to 18 percent reported a decrease in values. n In states where only medical marijuana is legal, about 20 percent of members noted some tenants don’t want to be near dispensaries. In states where both medical and recreational marijuana were legalized in the past three years, about 33 percent of members reported tenants don’t want to be near dispensaries. In states where medical and recreational marijuana have been legal more than three years, just under 50 percent of members said tenants don’t want to be near dispensaries. n Commercial real estate members most frequently cited concerns over smell when leasing to marijuana-related businesses, followed by theft of cash on properties, moisture issues and fire hazards.

One conclusion that could be drawn from the survey results is marijuana businesses affect commercial leasing and occupancy even as property values near dispensaries remain on average relatively unchanged.

Tim Whitney is managing broker of Coldwell Banker Commercial Prime Properties, a commercial brokerage and property management firm based in Grand Junction.

Whitney has been involved in the sale, lease and management of commercial real estate in Colorado for more than 35 years. For more information, call (970) 243-7375 or visit the website at www.CBCPrimeProperties.com.

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Page 21

Contributors Opinion Bold predictions for 2015 its Community demonstrates In of a pandemic, A midst new year affords defining Business Briefs a huge heart more likeattribute: not-so-bold repeats red tapeopportunity not the answer a new Business People Almanac to meet local needs THE he BUSINESS usiness T T Times IMES

PAGE age 22

For those who anticipated increased regulatory activity under the Joe Biden administration, their expectations thus far have been met. Increasing regulatory burdens always take a toll on entrepreneurship; small business; American competitiveness; and economic, income and employment growth. But ratcheting up such costs in an already grimbrings economy is grossly ill-conceived.

A new year almost always an opportunity for a fresh start and Consider two examples of regulatory policies heading in renewed ambition to do things better. wrongboils direction: In business, thatthe usually down to providing customers better products Hiking thethan minimum wage. President proposes and services faster and atnlower cost competitors.

Part of theBiden process must to raise thetonational minimum wage from $7.25 $15, which include listening to customers determine what they actually need to and then started with an executive order moving toward the imposition meeting that need. After all, it does little good to offer the latest and greatest if of this mandate. The $1.9 trillion spending nobody actually wants whatgovernment you’re selling. packagethat moving through includesArea the Just like the businesses belong to theCongress group, thecurrently Grand Junction phased-in $15 starts minimum wage Chamber of Commerce invariably out the newhike. year with a reassessment of The problemsand of raising thethey minimum include the services and resources it provides how well match wage with members increased costs for small businesses and fewer job needs. Jeff Franklin, the new chairman of the chamber board of directors, opportunities for low-skilled, young and personifies this approach in describing what he considers his inexperienced role for the coming Raymond workers. year: listen to members, determine their needs and then meet those needs. It’s a Keating end, compensation ultimately is linked to role with which FranklinIn is the familiar as market president of Bank of Colorado. and structured the value brought to in thewhat market.

Government The process willproductivity take on a more approach the chamber can’t economicofreality via aaptly minimum increase without negative plans erase as thethis resumption a program calledwage Listening to Business.

Under the consequences.

Theowners effects participate will be even the COVID-19 program, business inharsher in-depthgiven interviews to identifypandemic barriers to shutdowns on they smallencounter. businesses in those sectors hit the hardest. growth and —especially other problems n Imposing constraints on the the energy sector.

The new yearunnecessary offers a good time to join proverbial club.President Biden has signed assorted executive thatyou undermine thethe energy sector — which, As an advertiser or reader,orders what do need from Business Times? by the way, is overwhelmingly populated by small and mid-size businesses.

While business journals traditionally gather and report the relevant news to Onecommunication executive orderisn’t cancels the Keystone XL Pipeline permit and another readers, necessarily a one-way street. That’s especially true as temporarily ceases oilmake and natural gas leasing in the Arcticthan National Web sites and e-mail the dialogue more convenient ever. Wildlife Refuge in Alaska.

Good publications don’t exist in a vacuum. They respond to the needs of The Keystone Pipeline meant towhat’s transport oil from Canada and North advertisers and readers.

Theyis provide needed.

Dakota to refineries in Texas and Louisiana.

While significant parts of the pipeline So what do you need? already haveadditional been constructed, stretches be built.

Is there news coverage thatremain wouldtohelp keep you informed about pipeline would undermine trade that policies; our relationship localHalting businessthedevelopments?

Are there features wouldharm be interesting or with Canada; and inflictthat losses on make U.S. firms thea energy sector, their employees, useful?

Is there advice would your in jobs little easier? and assorted small businesses thatwhat serve those companies and workers the It’s equally important to ask you don’t need. With limited timeinto energy sector and other industries. produce content and limited space in which to publish it, would time and space be U.S. economy has lost betterThe devoted to something else?millions of small businesses and millions of jobs What’s during the pandemic.

A flood of new governmental regulations under such good?

What isn’t?

What’s needed?

What isn’t? circumstances makes misguided policymaking.

Let us know.

Sendfor usgrossly an e-mail.

Comment online on the Business Times Web One would hope that, instead, our officials, Congress andletter the to site at www.thebusinesstimes.com.

Youelected could even writefrom an old-fashioned White House downlike. to the smallest town halls, wouldand be negative, emphasizing constructive the editor if you’d Your feedback, both positive is valued and efforts clear away government costs and obstacles so free enterprise, economic will be to carefully considered. growth andpublications job creationare might flourish.

Good the result of not only the efforts of their staffs, but also This is especially critical as the economy works to rebuild from the collaborative efforts involving advertisers and readers. devastation wrought by COVID-19.

Like any other good business, we want to listen to our customers, find out what they need and then meet those needs.

Raymond chief economist It’s a Keating new year.is Please help us toofdothe so.Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council. Reach him through the website at ✦www.sbecouncil.org.

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THE BUSINESS TIMES

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Publisher/Owner: Craig R. Hall

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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. © 2021 — All rights reserved.

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There be some The topic has event, sort of weather myriad great stories natural disaster or at my fingertips. heinous occurrence It’s uplifting for will where someone me personally and say be interviewed and highlights “I’ve the the following: goodness our never seeninanything Craig Hall community.

It also like that in my happens beasonifmy lifetime.”toIt’s this Craig Hall heart year around Grand Junction personevery is a required Lions Club Carnival time, which means attendee at every news my mind has been on itI since raffle ticket reporting event.

While understand most sales began. people’s perspective can indeed be limited year, the Grandtheir Junction Lions by, orThis contained within, own personal faced an especially experiences, it is toodaunting much totask ask in to raising for non-profit capital consult funding some historical perspective before projects in Mesa County.

The response COVID-19 saying such a thing?

Yes, this can pandemic has taken lives.

Folks apply to some events.over Butour when it comes aren’t working, and government-imposed to weather and natural disasters, I’m pretty restrictions have hithistory their homes anditself. sure this is simply repeating businesses.

Addfortomillions that the concern Lionsof Same as it has and millions were have limited contactmade to sell years.going Moreto important, the planet it! their Then put the cherry Whatticket didn’tallotments. were certain species.

How’s on a record number of funding thattop forwith perspective? requests — over three times the annual ■ Prediction two: When it comes to a average during this crime or — something that most occursdifficult betweenof times. humans, the other required attendee at all would the who newsNormally reporting this events is theraise person question whatwe’re to do.just The says this: of “They theGrand nicest Junction Lions didn’t tosomething ask. We people, and in no way bother did I see got bookExactly. inventory and does went to like our thisticket coming.”

No one work to the meet ourwhen goals. most of time it More comesthan to a few Lions asked more tickets since neighbors andforacquaintances.

Peoplethey should knew what I at know: counttime on this be surprised what You goescan on from to community things are towns tough.and We time in their when neighborhoods, took out more ticket books knowing with people they know because peoplewe’d are be asking fromthat ourthey buyers. good.

Andfor formore the times shouldn’t Our buyers didn’t us down.repeat I can’t be shocked — like withlet politicians, remember where I first — heard the phrase, offenders and terrorists where’s the “It’s yoursthat forsays, the asking” — andsurprise I’d do interview “This doesn’t well keep that in mind for Business me intothe least.”

Times calls. three: But itSomething was as simple ■sales Prediction goodas taking the time to ask to be reminded of will happen economically, and the the heartfeltwill goodness of the government take credit forwonderful it. The most people of MesaisCounty. recent example gas prices, where people Every I’ve hadthe over the years ask me whybuyer I won’t credit president for confirmed they’d theirisannual low gas prices.

Mytake answer simple:buy.

Quite a few came Government never back makesand thesaid, price“I’ll of take more.”

Why? Because understood something go down andthey simply takes credit the need news. in the Gas community. after for good pricing isLion subject to Lion tellfactors. the same story whether manycan global Now there are selling in person, through emails or at one government answers to addressing some of of thetolive locations we staffed during them keep prices stable for Americans, ticket season.

Lions theinsame but ourselling government has noneheard of them thing: “We’d to help thankinyou place. The onlylove things it hasand in place the

FebruaryJANUARY 25-March 10, 2015 2021 15-28,

for you’re hurt doing in our community.” longwhat run always consumers.

Another Tell how that doesn’t do one’s fact is thatme unemployment reaches a certain heart good?on the economy. And while the level based I can domight you one Lions is also government bragbetter. the number low, absorbed the one-two of no Main it’s more than likely thepunch government did Street parade or carnival due tobeing Mesalow something to cause that number County imposed regulations regardingwhen — and not in a good way. Conversely, large gatherings. on some business picks up,(Well, it’s because the people gatherings, biased butnot that’s who need toit’s buykinda widgets who— were for a future column.)

Lions made thewas buying widgets because the economy difficult decision scrap(or these events the contracting due toto natural unnatural, community Lions hold dear.

Butwe once government and caused) reasons, decided again, Lions didn’t sulk. The The government community better buy some widgets. didn’t disappoint. had nothing to do with this.

I sent a text to myIngood buddy, ■ Prediction four: keeping with Butch Miller, at Warehouse asking things the government does, I2565 predict the if he had anything going on the government will manipulate theafternoon numbers of to Feb. the good folks at make20. theKeep claiminthemind, economy is getting the Warehouse prayingto better because ofwere howhoping hard it and is working and need for live musicNow helpin alldesperate of us “working Americans.”

(Remember the“Craig, biasedyou regulations?) you might say, always say to this come to make lifebecause better for about back President Obama youowners don’t and answer?

“We’dI don’t love to like staff. him.” Butch’s You’re right in a sense. have guys!” knowyou the man, but what I know of him and Contingency went intoone effect, his thinking, I don’tplans like it or him iota. and I can’t howhowever, the Lions couldlike have Before you see go off, I didn’t had a better event. not tostimulus mention President Bush and That’s his bailouts, the after party we’ve in years andbest his abandoning the freehad market to save upstairs watching myI don’t other know buddy,him Clark the free market.

And Jensen, and his rock —does, well,and country either. What the band government the — night away. onlythething it can do, is hurt the economy.

Theit Lions had a better thanin Unless does nothing or putevent criminals the carnival jail original instead ofcontingent partneringplan. with No them, nothing meant no extra earnings Lions on look the government does will for help.

Always raffle day.

Well, one confident Lion —says at it this way, whatever the government who happens to be typing right it is doing, whatever the name ofnow the law it — suggested a silent auction to raise a of is passing, or whatever the name or goal few more bucks.itNaturally, thetoone the bureaucracy is presenting thewho opened his mouth first was declared people, expect the polar opposite to occur. the chairman of said I guess what I’mauction. saying isThe thatusual winner placement perhapsfor it’ssuch timehigh to get out of ourresults own from NOT being in the room.

But these perspective.

There’s plenty of history are interesting times.research out there to books and historical know what?

Our beginYou to understand that allcommunity of this has responded with incredible generosity happened before.

And it will again, Business owners had little inventory whether the topicwho is people or government. of what normally donate said, Thethey bestwould recommendation is to find “Hey, I’ve got bunch theseGoogle instead some books oratry that of whole and it’sThere’s worth more and it’s yours.”on Orthe thing. a lot of information the small businesses from Palisade, Fruita Great Depression.

The truth is it wasn’t and Street (in some evenMain a good onecoming until thetogether government got cases RECRUITING) create involved.

There’s also to plenty of wonderful research gift baskets.

We even booth sponsors on the medieval warmhad period when the that would give us hundreds of planet was normally much warmer than today with products instead substitute items a whole lot less people (andbigger warmer well to makeman the was rafflehere a success.

Mesa before at all). And as yep, County folksbeen always do, they the people have killing otherthanked surprised Lions. people since history was first written.

In spite some of already writing many, Maybe research willso help stop I’ll never have sufficient wordswe’ll to express all of these trends.

Otherwise, be how grateful am toseen be part of such a it in saying we’ve Inever anything like wonderful, caring community. our lives. And not and in agiving good way.

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

Times. Reach Reach him him at at 424-5133 424-5133or publisher@thebusinesstimes.com. or publisher@thebusinesstimes.com.

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February 25-March 10, 2021

The Business Times

From a favorite author, some words to work by It’s only natural to seek out advice from those who’ve achieved success. Rather than try to reinvent the wheel, why not just emulate the creators? Or at least listen to what they have to say on the subject.

In business, such guidance often passes on an informal basis from mentors to their mentees.

But the process also accounts for a sizable portion of the publishing industry. Think of all the books offering Phil Castle what are billed as words of wisdom on everything from competition to innovation to leadership. I admit to carving out a small piece of that pie in running business advice columns as well as reporting stories about successful entrepreneurs and their ventures.

Business owners and managers can learn a lot from those who’ve been there and done that.

Newspaper editors and writers — and those of us who consider ourselves both — are no different.

I’ve been fortunate to learn a lot over the course of my career from some talented editors and publishers. That includes a sports editor who set an indelible example for striking a balance between work and life.

Come in early and bust your butt to finish the job, then get the hell out of Dodge.

I’ve been equally fortunate in recent years to learn a lot about writing fiction.

My instructors have included some talented mystery novelists whose published works tell compelling tales set in Colorado.

It’s probably true of people involved in most vocations and avocations. But writers seem an especially generous lot in sharing their time and talents.

Speaking of sharing, a friend who

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writes both long novels and short stories shared a link to a post by Emily Temple that appeared on the Literary Hub website.

And that brings me at long last to my point about advice.

The post reviewed some of the best advice Ray Bradbury offered about writing.

Bradbury is perhaps best known as the author of “Fahrenheit 451,” “The Martian Chronicles” and his collection of short stories in “The Illustrated Man.” One of my favorite books, though, is “Something Wicked This Way Comes” his dark fantasy about a traveling carnival.

I admired two related bits of Bradbury advice in the post: n “Don’t write for money. Write because you love to do something. If you write for money, you won’t write anything worth reading.” n “Writing is not a serious business.

It’s a joy and a celebration. You should be having fun at it. ... If it’s work, stop it and do something else.”

It might seem counterintuitive that someone who’s made a living for more than 40 years mostly by writing would agree with the advice NOT to write for money. Or, for that matter, that writing isn’t serious business. So let me add this. Don’t write JUST for money. And while writing is indeed serious business that requires hard work, it ALSO should be fun.

Similarly, the business of business is to make money. It’s an existential objective.

Moreover, starting, running and growing a business is hard work and plenty of it. But it also should be a labor of love, one that’s fun.

It’s been my experience those who enjoy their work are more likely to enjoy success.

At least that’s my advice.

Phil Castle is editor of the Business Times.

Reach him at phil@thebusinesstimes.com or 424-5133.

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Page 23

Busy legislative session ahead to take on Colorado challenges

To the editor: Over the last few weeks, the Capitol has been quiet. During the pause from debating and passing bills, I spent time listening to constituents and the other folks from around Colorado who have reached out to me to share their thoughts, stories and concerns From ranchers in Gunnison who are worried about drought to small business owners in Buena Vista who have been hit hard by COVID and Coloradans who can’t afford to pay for the health care they desperately need, people are struggling.

I’ll be carrying those stories with me throughout the Letter to session, and my plans for legislation will boldly address the the editor challenges that Coloradans are facing.

My colleagues and I will continue to address the immediate needs of folks most affected by the pandemic and work to revitalize our economy. And as we acknowledge just how devastating this time in our state’s history has been, we can begin to discuss the lessons that we’ve learned and the inequities and weaknesses that this horrible virus has revealed.

Skyrocketing health care costs and inconsistent broadband service have left some of our neighbors and communities vulnerable. In 2021, fast, consistent internet is a necessity, not a privilege. And yet, nearly 200,000 Coloradans, especially in rural parts of the state, don’t have access to any wired internet connection. This bill gets us closer to ensuring that all Coloradans can get online and that the important systems that rely on broadband never fail.

For the Coloradans who live without the safety net of health insurance, we’ll push providers to do the right thing and finally bring down the cost of their plans.

If they don’t, the bill that I’m excited to be working on with State. Rep. Dylan Roberts will give Coloradans the option of purchasing an affordable, statesponsored plan — the Colorado Option.

I’ll also introduce a bill that will help get much-needed services to veterans experiencing homelessness. And we’ll address the state’s shortage of skilled wildlands firefighters and combat our unacceptably high recidivism rate through my bill to help former State Wildland Inmate Fire Team (SWIFT) members get jobs serving their state as they re-enter the outside community.

Over the next few months, we’ll work together to tap into the resilient spirit that so defines Colorado, holding hope close as we plan Colorado’s comeback.

I’m thrilled to get going.

State Sen. Kerry Donovan Vail F

SHARE YOUR VIEWS The Business Times welcomes letters to the editor and guest columns on issues affecting businesses in Western Colorado. Submissions should be emailed to phil@thebusinesstimes.com and include names and telephone numbers for verification.

Page 24

Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac

n NEW COMPANY OFFERS HOMEOWNERS HELP WITH FOUNDATIONAL PROBLEMS

Knott Laboratory, a forensic engineering firm with an office in Grand Junction, has launched a company to help customers who’ve discovered issues with their home foundations.

Foundation Pro Engineering offers structural engineering services directly to homeowners.

“For most people, their home is one of their largest investments. So dealing with foundation movement can be incredibly Stanley Stoll costly and highly stressful,” said Stanley Stoll, chief executive officer and principal engineer at Knott Laboratory. “We created this company to provide homeowners with answers, properly diagnosing their unique foundation issues so they can get the proper repairs.”

Stoll said the expansive soils found in Western Colorado can cause movement and damage to foundations. Homeowners who discover cracks or gaps in their interior walls, driveways or patios should have the situations diagnosed. Foundation Pro engineers are licensed structural engineers and experienced in identifying foundation issues in Western Colorado.

For more information or a quote, call 718-5480 or visit the website at www.foundationproengineering.com. n ANTONELLI’S ADVANCED AUTOMOTIVE SEEKS NOMINATIONS FOR CAR GIVEAWAY Antonelli’s Advanced Automotive will accept nominations until midnight March 8 for the recipient of a car the Grand Junction repair shop will give away.

Nominations should describe in 150 words or less why a particular person needs a vehicle to not only help them prosper, but also improve the lives of others.

Nominations may be submitted online at the website located at www.antonellisadvancedauto.com or submitted by email to Community@antonellisadvancedauto.com.

Antonelli’s Advanced Automotive will present a 2006 Ford Taurus to the winner on March 12. The car will come with free oil changes for two years.

Located at 365 Bonny St., Antonelli’s Advanced Automotive provides a range of repair and maintenance services. For more information, call 242-0580.

The Business Times

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NOTEWORTHY

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.

West Star Aviation has received recognition for its efforts to promote and foster aviation maintenance training.

The Federal Aviation Administration granted Aviation Maintenance Technician Gold Awards of Excellence to West Star facilities in Grand Junction as well as East Alton, Ill. The FAA bestowed Diamond Awards of Excellence for West Star facilities in Denver and Perryville, Mo. “This is a major achievement for all the teams involved,” said Jim Rankin, chief executive officer of West Star Aviation.

Jim Rankin “They have worked diligently throughout the last year to complete and receive this recognition awarded by the FAA, and they are a proud representation of West Star.”

The AMT awards program recognizes employers and technicians that promote and foster training. Technicians and employers are encourage to participate in initial and recurrent training and courses. The FAA also recognizes employers who take a proactive role in training their work forces and offers awards based on training completed within one calendar year.

West Star Aviation provides a range of maintenance, repair and overhaul services at its facilities in Grand Junction, Aspen and Denver as well as in Arizona, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, Tennessee and Texas.

The company has ranked for seven consecutive years as the top MRO services provider in a survey conducted for Professional Pilot magazine.

For additional information, call (800) 922-2421 or visit the website located at www.weststaraviation.com.

n FOUNDATION AND INSURANCE AGENT OFFER $2,000 COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP Applications will be accepted through March 31 for a $2,000 college scholarship that will be awarded by the Shelter Insurance Foundation and Kerry Phillips, a Shelter Insurance agent in Grand Junction.

A committee of high school officials and community leaders will select the recipient from among upcoming graduates of Fruita Monument High School and Caprock Academy. Criteria will include scholastic achievements and Kerry Phillips community involvement as well as citizenship, leadership and moral character.

The recipient will be announced at the close of the school year.

The recipient may apply the scholarship to tuition, fees or campus housing at an accredited college or university.

Applications and additional information is available from high school counselors and principals as well as the Kerry Phillips Shelter Insurance Agency at 314-9701. n EXPRESS EMPLOYMENT PROFESSIONALS RECEIVES STAFFING INDUSTRY AWARDS Express Employment Professionals, a staffing agency with a franchise in Grand Junction, has earned recognition for its services.

Express Employment Professionals received the ClearlyRated 2021 Best of Staffing Client and Talent Awards. The awards are based on the results of surveys of associates and clients — 68.1 percent of associates and 67.9 percent of clients rated the firm with a nine or 10 on a scale of 10.

In Grand Junction, the Express Employment Professionals office is located at 725 Pitkin Ave. For more information, call 242-4500 or visit https://www.expresspros.com/grandjunctionco.

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Pinnacol Assurance contributes nearly $3.6 million in 2020 Pinnacol Assurance contributed a total of nearly $3.6 million to businesses, organizations and individuals in Colorado during 2020, the workers’ compensation insurer announced.

“Now more than ever, Pinnacol is focused on providing caring protection for Colorado both as an insurer and through our community support programming,” said Edie Sonn, vice president of communications and public affairs.

Edie Sonn “We’re proud we could support Colorado during this very difficult year, and we’ll be here for the long haul to rebuild our communities, support workers and bolster Colorado’s economy.”

Pinnacol Assurance donated $2.5 million to funds that supported

February 25-March 10, 2021

small businesses and communities affected by the coronavirus pandemic, including $75,000 to the Grand Junction COVID-19 Responders Loan Fund.

Pinnacol gave another $465,150 to programs promoting employee health and safety, economic vitality and work force development.

The Pinnacol Foundation awarded a total of $452,820 in college scholarships to 95 students across Colorado for the 2020-2021 academic year. The program provides scholarships to students whose parents have been killed or injured in work-related accidents.

Pinnacol matched $157,415 in money donated by employees to nonprofits for a total contribution of $306,250.

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February 25-March 10, 2021

The Business Times

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BusinessBriefs Briefs Business BusinessPeople People Almanac Business Almanac

n EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR NAMED CEO OF WESTERN COLORADO FOUNDATION

Anne Wenzel has been named president and chief executive officer of the Western Colorado Community Foundation based in Grand Junction.

Wenzel served nearly 20 years as executive director of the foundation, which distributed almost $5 million in grants and scholarships in 2020 and ended the near with $96.5 million in Anne Wenzel total assets. The foundation distributed a total of $1.4 million in 2020 for food assistance, housing and mental health support in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Barb Chamberlin, chairwoman of the foundation board, said Wenzel has worked to build the organization into one of the largest charitable foundations in Western Colorado. “She started working three days a week when we had $1 million in assets under management and were distributing $25,000 in grants a year. She has contributed greatly to the success of the foundation.”

The Western Colorado Community Foundation serves seven West Slope counties, working with hundreds of donors and managing different types of charitable funds.

The organization complies with National Standards for Community Foundations, a national credentialing process.

For more information, visit https://wc-cf.org. n WATER ASSOCIATION MANAGER REAPPOINTED TO STATE WATER BOARD Steven Anderson, manager of the Uncompahgre Valley Water Users Association based in Montrose, has been reappointed to the Colorado Water Conservation Board.

Anderson will serve a three-year term on the board as a representative of the Gunnison and Uncompahgre rivers drainage basin and a Republican.

The board is responsible for water project planning and financing, conservation, drought planning and other activities related to water development and protection.

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 GRAND JUNCTION REAL ESTATE FIRM ANNOUNCES ADDITION TO TEAM Anthony Fiske has joined Weichert Realtors-Heiden Homes Realty in Grand Junction.

A Western Colorado native, Fiske served in the Army, including a tour of duty in Afghanistan. He also worked in the oil and natural gas industry in North Dakota for more than three years. He’s a member of the Grand Junction Area Realtor Association.

Anthony Fiske Reach Fiske at 985-2813 or by email at Anthonymfiske@gmail.com. His Facebook page is located at www.facebook.com/vetdoesrealestate.

Weichert Realtors-Heiden Homes Realty operates offices at 735 Rood Ave. For more information, call 245-7777 or visit www.heidenhomes.com. n CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER NAMED A COLORADO HOSPITAL SUPERHERO Dr. Thomas Tobin, chief medical officer at Community Hospital in Grand Junction, is among those recognized as a Colorado Hospital Superhero.

The Colorado Hospital Association and American Sentinel University recognizes employees from CHA member hospitals who’ve demonstrated courage and mental toughness to care Thomas Tobin for patients and communities during the coronavirus pandemic.

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February 25-March 10, 2021

Feb. 25 n Grand Junction Master Networks referrals group Zoom meeting, 9 a.m. Feb. 25 and March 4.

New members welcome, but just one per profession.

216-7723 n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce free Zoom webinar offering tax tips, 10 a.m.

Registration required. www.gjchamber.org or 242-3214 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Thursday Friends networking lunch, noon, Suds Brothers Brewery, 127 E. Aspen Ave. 858-3894 or www.fruitachamber.org March 2 n Networking at Noon free gathering for members of the Fruita and Palisade chambers of commerce, noon March 2 and 9, KAFM Radio Room, 1310 Ute Ave., Grand Junction. Email reservations required. membership@fruitachamber.org March 4 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Thursday Friends networking lunch, noon, Rib City, 455 Kokopelli Drive, Unit E. 858-3894 or www.fruitachamber.org n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce free Zoom webinar on protecting businesses and individuals from unemployment fraud, 2 p.m.

Registration required. www.gjchamber.org or 242-3214 March 10 n Business startup webinar, 9 to 10:30 a.m.

March 10 and 11. Admission $55 243-5242 or www.gjincubator.org Upcoming n Business startup workshop, 9 to 11:30 a.m.

March 23, Business Incubator Center, 2591 Legacy Way, Grand Junction. Admission $55 243-5242 or www.gjincubator.org n Free business valuation workshop, 9 to 10:30 a.m.

March 31, Business Incubator Center. 243-5242 or www.gjincubator.org F

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February 25-March 10, 2021