THE BUSINESS T IMES News MARCH 24-APRIL 6, 2022
VOLUME 29, ISSUE 6
THE DEFINITIVE SOURCE FOR GRAND JUNCTION BUSINESS NEWS SINCE 1994
THEBUSINESSTIMES.COM
TrendsFearless for 4 business Contributors Opinion 5 Business Briefs 6 Business People Almanac
In this issue
n Healthy endeavor St. Mary’s Medical Center in Grand Junction has rebuilt it’s inpatient pharmacy to improve efficiency and safety.
n Chamber executive plans retirement after nearly 33-year tenure. Page 2
n Economic summit Registration is under way for an upcoming event that will explore issues related to regional economic development.
Diane Schwenke works in her office at the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce. Schwenke plans to retire after serving nearly 33 years as president and CEO.
n Joining forces
An organization that supports the exchange of health care information is exploring integration with another group.
n Tasteful event
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An annual benefit event will showcase the new kids on the wine block as well as established operations.
n Jobless jump
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The monthly jobless rate spiked in Mesa County in January, but the labor force grew to its biggest level in a year.
n Constant change
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For Colorado business owners and managers, it might seem the only constant these days is change.
n Departments Almanac Business Briefs Business People Contributors News Opinion Trends
30-31 28 30 21-25 2-18 26 19-20
n Lauded for innovative efforts. Page 2 ProStar ranks among what are billed as the 10 most innovative companies with fewer than 100 employees.
Business Times photo by Phil Castle
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THE BUSINESS T IMES News The Business Times
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ProStar Trends joins list of Contributors innovative companies Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac
Executive believes Grand Junction firm positioned for growth Phil Castle
The Business Times
Diane Schwenke works in her office at the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce. Schwenke plans to retire later this year after serving nearly 33 years as president and chief executive officer of the business organization.
Fearless for business Chamber executive plans to retire after a nearly 33-year tenure
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iane Schwenke jokes about how her daughter once distilled her job description down to two activities: attending meetings and talking on the phone. Schwenke doesn’t deny she’s spent a good portion of her nearly 33 years as president and chief executive officer of the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce doing just that. But there’s always been a reason, she says. And that’s to answer the question she says she asks herself. “How can I meet the needs of the business community today?” Sometimes that’s representing the interests of business owners and managers who aren’t at the meeting. Other times that’s pushing programs that help participants become better leaders and entrepreneurs. Still other times, that’s advocating for — and against — ballot measures and legislation. It’s a team sport, she says, that involves chamber members, board and staff as well as others in a place known for a culture of collaboration. “This community still cares about each other.” Schwenke expects to remain involved in the community, but soon in a different role. She announced plans to retire later this year — after the chamber board hires a successor. Schwenke says the timing is right for a transition. The chamber is in a good position financially and fully staffed. The business community is recovering from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions. Moreover, she says her husband has been retired for four years and waiting for her to join him for more travel and other pursuits. “It is time,” she says. “It is now time for a new leader with fresh ideas to take the helm and steer this strong organization that effectively carries out its mission of being the voice of business and promoting economic growth.” See FEARLESS page 16
Wonder Woman a metaphor for fierce business advocate
One of Jeff Hurd’s favorite memories of Diane Schwenke involves her enthusiasm for the annual Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce banquets and the themes of those events — to the extent the usually staid chamber executive once dressed as Wonder Woman for a banquet with a superhero theme. The costume was something of Jeff Hurd a metaphor, says Hurd, a lawyer who worked for Schwenke as a government affairs manager and later worked with her as chairman of the chamber board of directors. “Diane has been fearless for business.” Jamie Hamilton, chairman and chief executive officer of Home Loan Insurance, has long worked with Schwenke in her roles with the chamber Jamie Hamilton as well as the committee that runs the Junior College Baseball World series in Grand Junction. Hamilton calls Schwenke aggressive — but in a good way. Moreover, she’s the kind of conscientious professional who follows her words with actions. “I’m very proud of what she’s done for the community.” See ADVOCATE page 16
STORIES AND PHOTO BY PHIL CASTLE
Page Tucker foresees a perfect storm brewing for his company. But that’s a good thing — a combination of factors he expects to increase the use of the infrastructure mapping software his firm developed. Federal legislation allocates $1 trillion to fix roads, bridges and other infrastructure in the United States. Even that will address only what Tucker considers the tip of an iceberg of what needs Page Tucker repaired and replaced. The founder and chief executive officer of ProStar said he’s no less encouraged by the increased use of his company’s PointMan software among construction firms, utilities and government agencies — as well as data collection equipment manufacturers. That’s not to mention the recognition the Grand Junction-based company has garnered, most recently for inclusion in the Fast Company magazine list of what are billed as the 10 most innovative companies with fewer than 100 employees. Tucker hasn’t yet achieved his goals for ProStar. Moreover, the endeavor has taken longer and cost more than he expected. But he said he’s excited about the progress that’s been made and what lies ahead. “This should be a good year for us.” The Fast Company business magazine compiles an annual list of companies from a range of sectors and around the world to showcase their innovative practices “The world’s most innovative companies play an essential role in addressing the most pressing issues facing society, whether they’re fighting climate change by spurring decarbonization efforts, ameliorating the strain on supply chains or helping us reconnect with one another over shared passions,” said David Lidsky, deputy editor of Fast Company. ProStar ranked second among the top 10 most innovative companies with fewer than 100 employees in part for its efforts to make the invisible visible with software that captures, records and displays the locations of buried utilities and pipelines. See PROSTAR page 18
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well-rounded perspective inpatient pharmacy to new Mesa County role New facility includes automated system Phil Castle as well as New England and Canada. for storing and retrieving medications The Business Times Whidden said people who work
Phil Castle Businessbrings Times what he Frank The Whidden considers a well-rounded perspective to his Center in Grand new St. job Mary’s as MesaMedical County administrator. Junction has worked revamped its inpatient Whidden pharmacy information to improve efficiency and safety. in operation technology and holds The one of a master’s degree includes in the largest robotic computer information systems of its kind in systems. But he also Colorado to store and holds a doctoral retrieve medications, degree in applied said Rudy Bormann, management and director of pharmacy decision making and Frank Whidden services at St. Mary’s. worked for more than “HumanWhidden involvement 20 Rudy yearsBormann as a minister. has in picking and packing worked for large and small organizations drugs moreand errors. now the in bothled the to private publicBut sectors. BoxPicker automates medication Whiddenfully expects to draw on all of his storage and in retrieval, only experiences helpingwhich MesanotCounty eliminates picking errors, but also increases commissioners make and carry out decisions. safety at dispense.” Valuing staff and making the county Located on first isfloor of the an employer of the choice among hospital, the renovated opened priorities, Whidden said.pharmacy So is planning Marchresults 2. that in sustainable funding and Bormann saidon theafacility wasbasis. enlarged balanced budgets long-term and Meanwhile, redesigned to Mesa streamline operations, County will improve tomedication anda continue pursue effortsdispensing that promote enhance patient safety environment while also reducing friendly business and costs. economic development, Whidden said. The pharmacy includes Whidden officially began cleanrooms working as as welladministrator as a larger atsuite exceeds county the that beginning of regulations compounding sterile drugs. the year. Hefor succeeds Tom Fisher, who was software hiredComputer as county managerandin scanning Summit technology County, Utah.manages medications from purchase to storage dispensing and in is Whidden joinedto Mesa County integrated withas medical records,technology he said. August 2011 information The In Swisslog Healthcare BoxPicker director. April 2014, he became deputy system installed in the pharmacy of the county administrator for is one resource largest of its kind operation in Colorado, management in ainstaffing reorganization Bormann said, four with director a total positions. of more than that eliminated 1,000Before compartments refrigerated and joiningfor Mesa County, nonrefrigerated medications. Whidden worked for a company providing The systemtechnology not only storesservices medications information to in a smaller but affords colleges and space, universities. In thatroom role, for he additional capacity, he said. managed IT systems and services for Storageinand pass-through capabilities institutions Alabama, Arizona, Illinois
in information technology aren’t just “geeks,” but offer an important perspective because they’re familiar with nearly every aspect of operations and how work gets done. They also tend to think about new and potentially better ways of doing things in asking and answering “what if ” questions. “They know how to effect change in an organization.” Whidden expects to bring that same approach to his duties as administrator. Whidden said it’s his role to help county commissioners make and then implement decisions. The commissioners in turn represent the residents of the county and express their will, he said. “We work for the people.” Whidden said he also considers himself a liaison between the commissioners and county staff, and one of the priorities is to make sure employees feel valued. Whidden said he hopes not only to improve morale, but also take steps that will make Mesa County an organization for which people want to work. Meanwhile, Whidden expects the county to continue policies and initiatives that support local business and economic development. There are additional steps that can be taken to make it easier for local businesses to sell products and services to the county, heHealthcare added. A Swisslog BoxPicker Mesa County will keeppharmacy working with installed in the inpatient other government entities, organizations at St. Mary’s Medical Center in and institutions on combines fostering anrobotics environment Grand Junction that supports existing and computer softwarebusinesses to store and attracts new businesses, he said. and retrieve medications. (Business Whidden said could be a Times photo by Philthere Castle) opportunities to encourage the additional for the new cleanrooms eliminate need development of businesses that the provide to enter to stock. industry as well services todeliver the agricultural Computer connect as promote Mesa workstations County as a distribution technicians the robotic system, which center for thetoregion. selects retrievesthing medications. That Theand important is to consider means spend less time locating, issues technicians from a well-rounded perspective, picking Whiddenand said.verifying “We won’tmedications be myopic asand we more on other tasks, Bormann said. look attime things.” F ✦
March 24-april 6, 2022
The Business Times
Registration under way for economic summit Registration is under way for an upcoming event that will explore issues associated with economic development in Western Colorado. The Grand Junction Economic Partnership has scheduled the Western Colorado Economic Summit (WCES) for 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 26 at the Grand Junction Convention Center. After a year in which the summit was postponed until September because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the event will return to its regular time. “We are glad to be able to return to our normal time frame, but also to be back at the Grand Junction Convention Center, where we are able to accommodate many more attendees,” said Steve Jozefczyk, interim director of GJEP. The summit serves as both an annual meeting for GJEP as well as a fund-raiser for the economic development organization. The event will include plenary and breakout sessions as well as an update and awards presentation. Britain Garza, community relations manager for GJEP, said the agenda hasn’t been finalized, but likely will include presentations on education, housing and work force development. “We feel that it is really important to circle back on many topics that came up
FOR YOUR INFORMATION To register for or obtain more information about the Western Colorado Economic Summit, visit westcoeconomicsummit.com.
in 2021. Not only are we still maneuvering many of these issues six months later, but they also came up as key areas affecting quality of life on the Grand Vision survey,” Garza said. “The exciting part is that there’s been lots of movement on these issues in our community in this short time frame,” he said. “We are now seeing opportunity and progress, where in the past we might have had more questions and concerns. We are looking forward to presenting these efforts at WCES.” GJEP will present two awards at the summit: the Joseph Prinster LeadershipAward for individual achievement in economic development and Charter Communications Spirit of Economic Development Award to a business or organization that demonstrates community awareness and involvement. Nominations will be accepted through March 31 and should be emailed to Garza at britain@gjep.org. F
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Health information organizations explore integration A Western Colorado organization that supports the exchange of information to improve health care is exploring integration with another organization. The boards of Quality Health Network based in Grand Junction and the Colorado Community Managed Care Network executed a letter of intent to enter into a formal due Dick Thompson diligence process to determine if the two organizations should integrate operations. “The pandemic shows the critical need to make health data meaningful at the local, regional, state and national level,” said Dick Thompson, executive director and chief executive officer of QHN. “We are providing needed and
essential products and services especially targeted to those organizations, typically smaller, that don’t have access to the resources or abilities to create the infrastructures that larger organizations can.” Jason Greer, chief executive officer of CCMCN based in Denver, said the two organizations offer complimentary services. “Our joint efforts will allow us to do more for existing customers while opening new opportunities to strengthen our support for communities and state agencies.” QHN helps medical, behavioral and human services providers in Western Colorado securely share health information to coordinate care, reduce duplication of services and identify individuals at risk. All of the hospitals and more than 90 percent of health care providers in its service area participate in the network. QHN also operates the Community Resource Network, which provides on a
secure exchange information about clients, including family and housing, resources sought in the past and who’s been contacted to request services. The CRN offers information about available resources and appropriate organizations to contact for assistance. CCMCN supports federally qualified health centers, rural health clinics, critical access hospitals, regional accountable entities and health alliances across Colorado with information, care coordination and analytic solutions. As part of the integration exploration, Marc Lassaux will serve as interim CEO of QHN following Thompson’s retirement April 2. Lassaux is chief technology officer of QHN. “QHN is successful because we have focused on our mission and our values, and this will continue to drive us during this exciting process,” Lassaux said. F
Applications sought for funds addressing regional health care work force shortage Applications will be accepted through April 1 for $585,000 in grants designed to help organizations address health care work force shortages in Western Colorado. The Rocky Mountain Health Foundation launched the work force development fund to help women, people of color and those with low incomes pursue careers in health care and behavioral health. Funds are available for scholarships for health care- and behavioral healthrelated degrees and certifications, paid internships and intern living expenses and capital requests. Awards are expected to range from $20,000 to $50,000. The grants are available to nonprofit, government or public entities that deliver services in and have staff living in 22 Western Slope counties. Applicants are required to schedule pre-application calls with foundation staff. Organizations based in Mesa County as well as Delta, Grand, Jackson, Moffat and Rio Blanco counties should schedule with Stephanie Self using the link at https://calendly.com/stephanie-rmhf/pre_ app_mtg. Organizations based in other West Slope counties should schedule with Julie Hinkson using the link at https://calendly.com/ julie-rmhf/pre_app_mtg. Information also is available by calling (970) 644-8188 or visiting the website at https://rmhealth.org/grant-making/fundingopportunities. The Rocky Mountain Health Foundation was established in 2017 when UnitedHealth Group purchased Rocky Mountain Health Plans and set aside $38 million to promote the health and well-being of people in 22 Western Slope counties. In 2021, the foundation announced plans to contribute a total of $30 million to fund a variety of efforts across Western Colorado and the remainder of the state. The donation followed a $50 million payout from a lawsuit against the federal government seeking unpaid funds from an Affordable Care Act program. F
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Tasteful event to showcase new kids on wine block An annual event showcasing wine, spirits and food will offer a taste of new and old while raising money to provide health care in Mesa County. Edesia is set for 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 24 at the Wine Country Inn in Palisade. Named for the Roman goddess of food, Edesia will feature wines from new and established operations paired with cuisine. Sponsored by FCI Constructors and Alpine Bank, Edesia raises funds for MarillacHealth, which provides a range of health care services to uninsured and underinsured Mesa County residents. “Our theme New Kids on the Wine Block reflects many changes in our industry and our neighborhood,” said Ian Kelley, general manager of the Wine Country Inn. Kelley said several wineries have opened in the Grand
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
Edesia: A Palisade Culinary, Wine & Spirits Adventure is set for 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 24 at the Wine Country Inn, 777 Grande River Drive in Palisade. Tickets sell for $65 in advance and $75 at the door. For tickets or more information, visit https://edesiapalisade.com. Valley in recent years, among them Carboy, Ordinary Fellow, Sauvage Spectrum and Vines 79. There also have been changes in ownership at Grande River Vineyards, Maison La Belle Vie, Mesa Park and Whitewater Hill. Meanwhile, such established wineries as Colterris, DeBeque Canyon, Plum Creek, Red Fox, Talbott and
Talon continue to introduce new wines, Kelley said. “This is an exciting time to be in the Grand Valley. Our wines just get better and better, and so does the food,” he said. “The same terroir that produces great wines enriches our local crops and creates an unparalleled field-to-fork cuisine here.” In addition to wines, Edesia will offer tastes of beer, spirits and ciders as well as samples from food vendors. Local artists will perform live music. What were other components of Edesia have been expanded into separate events set for later in the year. A New Kids Wine Dinner pairing wines with a special menu is set for July 16 at the Wine Country Inn. Grande River Vineyards and Talon Wine Brands will host a Live in the Grapevines concert set for Aug. 20. F
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News, views COGO grant and advice to help fund you can use Clifton effort
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A nearly $150,000 grant will help fund more work on improving connections among schools, parks and the riverfront in Clifton. The Great Outdoors Colorado board awarded a $147,300 grant to Mesa County to develop strategies and an action plan for the Clifton Community Commons. “This grant will Jeff Kuhr help us transform input to action,” said Jeff Kuhr, executive director at Mesa County Public Health, which leads the process. The board awarded through the grant through the Centennial Program, which helps recipients plan once-in-a-generation projects with lasting effects. The Clifton Community Commons project will improve connections among schools, parks and the Colorado River as well as explore the potential for additional open spaces and the continuation of a riverfront trail from Clifton to Palisade. The project also would improve connections within the Grand Valley. Kuhr said an action group conducted hundreds of surveys and interviews with Clifton residents in 2020 to ask them about their priorities to change. “Respondents’ main concerns included unsafe streets and lack of infrastructure (44 percent), lack of safe things for kids to do (43 percent) and unsafe parks (38 percent),” he said. The efforts come as Mesa County updates its master plan and a Clifton feasibility study. This study will examine options for possible changes to Clifton governance, including incorporation, establishing a parks and recreation or other special district and shared services agreements. With the latest grant, Greater Outdoors Colorado has invested more than $46.5 million in projects and conserved 18,304 acres of land in Mesa County. Grants have supported Las Colonias Park, the Lunch Loops and Palisade Plunge trails and Nisley Elementary School playground as well as the conservation of the Johnson Ranch. Great Outdoors Colorado invests a portion of proceeds from the Colorado Lottery to preserve and improve open spaces, parks, rivers, trails and wildlife habitat in the state. An independent board awards competitive grants to local governments and land trusts and makes investments through the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Department. Created when voters approved a state constitutional amendment in 1992, Great Outdoors Colorado has funded a total of more than 5,500 projects in all 64 counties of the state. F
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Grand Valley veterinarians open emergency clinic A new veterinary emergency clinic in Grand Junction offers around-the-clock care four days a week. The owners of Monument View Veterinary Hospital joined with veterinarian Megan Riveros to open Veterinary Emergency at Monument View. Operating at the hospital’s location on Orchard Mesa, the clinic offers 24-hour emergency care to pet owners from 6 p.m. to 8 a.m. Friday through Monday. Veterinary Emergency at Monument View adds to the daily operations at the hospital to provide 24-hour care on weekends. Veterinarians Mark Ryan and Justin Seely joined with certified veterinarian technician Miranda Schroeder to open Monument View Veterinary Hospital. “Dr. Ryan and Dr. Seely see this new venture as the next step in providing the best care for our patients here in the Grand Valley,” Schroeder said. “Dr. Riveros and I
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
Monument View Veterinary Hospital is located at 1673 U.S. Highway 50 in Grand Junction. For additional information, call 644-5552 or visit www.mvvetgj.com. will lead our experienced team to provide the best quality after-hours care for pets and their owners.” Emergency care hours will expand further as additional ER veterinarians are hired, Schroeder said. Riveros brings to the operation experience in emergency and mobile veterinary services. She said there’s a need for more emergency pet care options in the Grand Valley. “The demand is high, and I wanted to be
part of the solution. To be able to team up with a highly respected, noncorporate and locally owned clinic like Monument View Veterinary Hospital is exciting. Dr. Ryan and Dr. Seely are the best in the business, and I’m grateful to be a part of their new venture.” Seely said expanding hospital hours to provide emergency services fits the vision he and his partners have for Monument View Veterinary Hospital. “From the day we opened our new clinic, our focus has been on creating a culture that puts pets and their families first,” he said. “Giving pets the best care possible means being available to them when they need us most.” In addition to expanded emergency services, Monument View Veterinary Hospital also provides house calls and at-home euthanasia. F
Couple continues law practice under a new firm name A couple will continue a Grand Junction law practice under a new name — Hand Law. Amy Hand and husband Mark Hand will operate the practice from the same location at 725 Rood Ave. The new name follows the retirement of Tom LaCroix from LaCroix & Hand, Amy Hand the law firm LaCroix founded 45 years ago. Amy and Mark Hand bring to the practice a total of more than 50 years of legal experience. They both received law degrees from Drake University. Mark Hand worked for nearly 20 years Mark Hand for the Mesa County Attorney’s Office and 21st Judicial District Attorney’s Office. The Hands offer services in a variety of practice areas, including adoptions and divorces; criminal defense, including cases involving driving under the influence and traffic violations; and estate planning and wills. “We are both looking forward to the upcoming year and establishing our new name in the community,” Amy Hand said. “Our primary focus continues to be on building our local reputation by providing thorough and personalized legal representation. Growth is inevitable for those who truly care about their clients’ success.” The new name comes with a new business logo that includes three Roman columns. Each column represents a core value for the firm in combining experience and integrity to obtain positive results for clients. For additional information about Hand Law or to schedule a consultation with a lawyer, call 245-4601 or visit the website at www.handlawgj.com. F
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New dashboard reports monthly economic data for Colorado
A new online resource offers economic indicators and information about other trends affecting Colorado businesses. The Colorado Secretary State’s Office joined with the business research division of the Leeds School of Business at the University of Colorado at Boulder to launch the Colorado Business and Economic Indicator (CBEI) Dashboard. “The business environment is dynamic, and getting timely economic information is vital to making important business decisions,” said Secretary of State Jena Griswold. “That’s Jena Griswold why we’re pleased to work with our partners at the Leeds School of Business to provide businesses, as well as those interested in Colorado’s economy, this valuable and easyto-use resource.” BrianLewandowski, executive director of B. Lewandowski the business research division at the Leeds School of Business, said the division has worked with the secretary of state’s office for more than a decade to summarize and analyze business filings in the state. The Secretary of State’s Business Intelligence Center offers information about startups and business health in the state. “This has been a valuable partnership for Leeds, providing us with a better understanding of business health and a platform to share economic information broadly to the business community,” Lewandowski said. The CBEI Dashboard combines business filings with other state and national economic metrics and presents the information in an interactive format, Lewandowski said. The CBEI Dashboard reports new business filings, existing entity renewals, delinquencies and dissolutions as well as information about trade names and trademarks. Additional economic information about the labor market and gross domestic product also is available. The CBEI Dashboard uses an interface with charts and tables on multiple tabs that are easy to navigate as well as interactive filters and tools designed to provide relevant data efficiently. To access the CBEI Dashboard, log on to https://bic.coloradosos.gov/CBEIdashboard. For more information about the Colorado Secretary of State Office’s Business Intelligence Center, log on to https://bic.coloradosos.gov. F
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Fearless
Continued from page 2 Schwenke says she’ll remain on the job until a successor is in place, but doesn’t expect that to take too long. A succession plan adopted several years ago details how to proceed with the process. Ivan Geer, chairman of the chamber board of directors, says a selection committee comprised of board members will carry out what he said will be a fair and transparent process. Schwenke joined the Grand Junction Area Chamber Commerce in 1989, taking a job for which she never applied. She was a finalist for a position with what was at the time the Mesa County Economic Development Commission. When that didn’t work out, she was asked if she’d be interested instead in leading the chamber. Prior to coming to Grand Junction, Schwenke worked in positions with chamber management and economic development in Colorado and Nebraska. In 1989, the Grand Valley was still recovering from the oil shale bust, and the chamber was in debt, she says. The financial situation was soon corrected, and chamber membership has more than doubled over the past three decades — from around 350 when Schwenke started to nearly 800 today, she says.
The Business Times
While chamber executives often look to move up to positions in larger communities, Schwenke says she was fortunate. “The community continued to grow, and I had the opportunity to grow with it.” While there have been a series of downturns — the oil shale bust, a natural gas boom and bust and most recently the COVID-19 pandemic — the Grand Valley remains resilient, she says. “The community has always come out of it stronger.” Moreover, the Grand Valley economy is more diverse and less dependent on energy development, she says. The growth of the health care, manufacturing and tech sectors has helped, as has the expansion of Colorado Mesa University. Grand Junction remains a regional hub for health care and shopping. “We’re still a place to come to.” Challenges persist, Schwenke says, among them rising housing prices and labor shortages. More infrastructure will be needed to accommodate growth. Moreover, residents sometimes take for granted the attributes that make the Grand Valley a great place to live and work. Businesses play an important role, she says. That means the chamber plays an important role as well as a catalyst for growth, convener of leaders and champion for the community.
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Schwenke says she’s proud of the reputation the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce has developed as a business advocate and for taking positions on everything from local ballot issues to state and national legislation and policies. She says she’s also proud of a number of chamber efforts implemented during her tenure, among them the Mesa County Leadership Program and Young Entrepreneurs Academy. The program trains emerging leaders from the business community. The academy familiarizes middle and high school students with entrepreneurship and starting and running their own ventures. Schwenke says she’s most enjoyed interacting with local business and community leaders. “This is a collaborative community that can come together to solve problems.” As for her impending retirement, Schwenke says she looking forward to having more time to relax, travel and pursue other activities. But until then, she plans to keep attending meetings and talking on the phone — and to keep meeting the needs of the business community. F
Advocate
Continued from page 2 Hurd says Schwenke hired him in 2002 for his first job after graduating from the University of Notre Dame in running the government affairs program for the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce. Hurd subsequently earned a law degree from the University of Denver and master of laws degree from Columbia University in New York City. He returned to the Grand Valley in 2014 and now leads the Grand Junction office of the Ireland, Stapleton, Pryor & Pascoe law firm. He served as chairman of the chamber board of directors in 2017. Hurd says Schwenke was both a great mentor and colleague. She expects results, he says, and is impatient in a good way to achieve them as quickly as possible. Moreover, she’s not afraid to “mix it up” at the intersection of business and politics. He says her legacy includes the passage of local ballot measures that earmarked funding for construction of the Riverside Parkway and increased the Grand Junction lodging tax to provide additional funding to promote commercial air travel, sports events and tourism. Hamilton says he’s worked with Schwenke since she came to Grand Junction in her roles with the chamber as well as the Junior College Baseball World Series. Hamilton says he admires Schwenke for her long tenure, ability to adapt and consistent followup. Moreover, she has the ability to make people feel comfortable, he says. That includes the junior college coaches who come to Grand Junction for the World Series and JUCO Baseball Hall of Fame inductions. “That says a lot about her character.” F
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ProStar combines GPS, the cloud and mobile communication technologies with its software to capture, record and display the precise location of pipelines, utilities and other buried infrastructure. (Photo courtesy ProStar)
ProStar
Continued from page 2 Tucker said was pleased with the listing. “This is by far the most prestigious recognition that we’ve received for what we’ve developed.” Tucker launched ProStar in 2014, combining Global Positioning System, cloud and mobile technologies with precision mapping software to capture, record and display the precise locations of utilities, pipelines and other buried facilities. It’s like the Google maps of what’s under ground, he said. In locating underground pipes and utilities based on records, there could be discrepancies between where records indicate utilities were installed and where they’re actually located. Using ProStar software and services, workers can capture, record and display the location of buried infrastructure down to the centimeter, Tucker said. That’s important in not only repairing and replacing infrastructure, but also protecting workers and the environment. By one estimate, more than 500,000 strikes on buried utilities are reported each year in the United States with an estimated $30 billion affect on the economy. Tucker said he expects the software to become even more important given the infusion of federal funding to repair and replace infrastructure in the United States. That includes roads and bridges as well as water and sewer lines and lines offering high-speed internet connections. Moreover, infrastructure often is located beneath roadways. As work proceeds on infrastructure, Tucker said he expects additional issues to surface with dilapidated pipelines and utilities. “They’re about to expose how big this problem is.” By one estimate, there are 2.5 million miles of paved roads in the United States. There are 35 million miles of buried utilities, he said. ProStar offers its software as a service and counts among its customers Fortune 500 construction companies, engineering firms, utilities and government agencies.
FOR YOUR INFORMATION For more information about ProStar, visit the website located at www.prostarcorp.com. The Colorado Department of Transportation mandates the use of ProStar software in work involving state roadways. Moreover, ProStar software is used with Trimble positioning software and equipment. Trimble technology integrates with the PointMan application running on smartphones and tablets using Trimble GPS receivers. ProStar holds a total of 21 patents in the United States and Canada for its systems and methods to capture and display the location of infrastructure. The company is willing to go to court to protect its intellectual property, Tucker said. ProStar operates its headquarters in Grand Junction and also maintains a location in Boulder. Tucker said a total of 29 employees work for the company — 19 of those in Grand Junction. Tucker said he expects to increase staffing. ProStar has developed a work force pipeline of sorts, he said, in offering paid internships to students at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction and then hiring them for full-time positions when they graduate. Tucker achieved one goal for ProStar in taking the company public. The firm is traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange in Canada and Frankfort Stock Exchange in Germany as well as an over the counter exchange in the United States. Tucker hopes, though, the company eventually will be traded on the tech heavy NASDAQ exchange He also hopes to double the number of customers using ProStar software and increase revenue by a similar proportion. The evolution of ProStar over the past eight years has taken longer and cost more than Tucker said he ever imagined. But he also said he’s pleased the progress that’s positioned ProStar to take advantage of the perfect storm ahead and the combination of factors likely to drive additional growth for his company. F
News Trends Unemployment Contributors rate spikes Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac The Business Times
March 24-april 6, 2022
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INDICATORS AT A GLANCE
n Business filings
t New business filings in Colorado, 13,027 in February, down 3.1% from February 2021.
n Confidence
t Consumer Confidence Index 110.5 for February, down 0.6. s Leeds Business Confidence Index for Colorado, 58 for the first quarter, up 1.9. t National Federation of Independent Business Small Business Optimism Index 95.7 for February, down 1.4.
n Foreclosures s Foreclosure filings in Mesa County, 20 in February, up from 2 in February 2021. t Foreclosure sales in Mesa County, 1 in February, down from 5 in February 2021.
n Indexes
s Conference Board Employment Trends Index, 119.18 for February, up 1.03. s Conference Board Leading Economic Index 119.9 for February, up 0.3%. s Institute for Supply Management Purchasing Managers Index for manufacturing, 58.6% for February, up 1%.
n Lodging
s Lodging tax collections in Grand Junction, $204,940 for February, up 68% from February 2021.
n Real estate
t Real estate transactions in Mesa County, 336 in February, down 3.4% from February 2021. s Dollar volume of real estate transactions in Mesa County, $140 million in February, up 14.8% from February 2021.
n Sales
s Sales and use tax collections in Grand Junction, $5.3 million for February, up 14.9% from January 2021. s Sales and use tax collections in Mesa County, $3.6 million for February, up 13.8% from February 2021.
n Unemployment s Mesa County — 4.5% for January, up 0.6. t Colorado — 4.1% for December, down 0.1. t United States — 3.8% for February, down 0.2.
But growing labor force bodes well for the Mesa County labor market Phil Castle
year, Englehart said. For January, 1,017 job orders were posted, a 41.8 percent increase over the same month last year. The gain Jan. Dec. The monthly unemployment rate spiked was smaller for February with 740 orders. s Delta County 4.2 3.5 in Mesa County in January, but the labor That’s 36 more than February 2021. s Garfield County 3.4 3.1 force also grew to a level higher than any While labor demand remains strong s Mesa County 4.5 3.9 point over the past year. across most industry sectors, it’s most s Montrose County 3.9 3.4 “It’s really good to pronounced in health care, he said. s Rio Blanco County 4.7 4.2 start the year with the Another event connecting employers higher labor force,” said and potential employees is set for 1 to 5 p.m. Curtis Englehart, director of the Mesa County April 27 with the Grand Valley Career & Job Fair in Lincoln Park in Workforce Center in Grand Junction. Grand Junction. The workforce center will join with Colorado Mesa With continued labor demand and more University in staging the event, Englehart said. job seekers, Englehart said he’s optimistic about Looking ahead, Englehart said he expects the unemployment 2022. “I feel like we’re going to see a pretty rate to retreat in Mesa County even as the labor force continues healthy year.” to grow. The seasonally unadjusted unemployment Seasonally unadjusted jobless rates also rose in neighboring Curtis Englehart rate rose six-tenths of a point to 4.5 percent Western Colorado counties in January: up seven-tenths of a point to in January, according to the latest estimates from the Colorado 4.2 percent in Delta County, up a half point to 3.9 percent in Montrose Department of Labor and Employment. At this time last year, the County and 4.7 percent in Rio Blanco County and up three-tenths of rate stood at 7.5 percent. a point to 3.4 percent in Garfield County. Labor reports lag at the beginning of the year as the department The statewide seasonally adjusted unemployment rate edged revises numbers from the year before. The February report is set for down a tenth of a point to 4.1 percent. That’s the lowest level since release March 25. the rate stood at 2.8 percent in February 2020. The jobless rate typically spikes in Mesa County in January Nonfarm payrolls increased 6,700 in Colorado between to its highest level of the year with seasonal layoffs following the December and January. holidays and winter weather affecting outdoor work. Over the past 21 months, Colorado has regained 368,400 of the The labor force constitutes another labor market indicator, 374,500 jobs lost between February and April 2020 and the onset of though, and in January grew 394 to 78,140. That’s higher than at the COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions. That equates to a any point in 2021, Englehart said. job recovery rate of 98.7 percent, which exceeds the national rate of Payrolls edged down 58 to 74,640. The number of people 86.9 percent. counted among those unsuccessfully looking for work increased Over the past year, nonfarm payrolls have grown 147,500 with 452 to 3,500. the biggest gains in the leisure and hospitality; professional and Compared to a year ago, payrolls have increased 4,690. The business services; and trade, transportation and utilities sectors. ranks of the unemployed have decreased 2,175. The labor force, The average workweek for employees on private, nonfarm which includes the employed and unemployed, grew 2,515. payrolls edged up a tenth of an hour to 33.6 hours. Average hourly Since January, Englehart said he’s seen an increase in hiring earnings increased $3.15 to $34.27. and the number of job openings filed. While a labor shortage According to revised information for 2021 from the Colorado persists, he said he’s hopeful the situation will improve. “It does Department of Labor and Employment, nonfarm payrolls increased feel like it’s moving in the right direction.” 93,900 — a gain of 3.5 percent. The annual unemployment rate for Labor demand as measured by the number of job orders posted the state was 5.4 percent, revised down from 5.9 percent. at the Mesa County Workforce Center remains higher than last F The Business Times
AREA JOBLESS RATES
City and county sales tax collections on the rise Tax collections, a measure of retail sales, continue to increase in Grand Junction and Mesa County on a year-over-year basis. The City of Grand Junction collected a total of nearly $5.3 million in sales and use taxes in February, a 14.9 percent increase over the same month last year. Mesa County collected a total of more than $3.6 million in sales and use taxes, a 13.8 percent increase over a year ago. Grand Junction lodging tax collections, a measure of hotel and motel stays in the city, jumped 68 percent. February tax reports reflect January sales. The city collected almost $4.3 million in sales taxes, a 13.3 percent increase. The city collected $89,292 in use taxes, a smaller and more volatile revenue source. That constituted a 55.3 percent gain. The county collected more than $3.3 million in sales taxes for a 14.1 percent increase. Use taxes collections — nearly all of them on automobiles purchased outside the county, but used in the county — rose 9.9 percent to $299,000. County tax collections on retail sales increased 5.9 percent from a year ago to more than $1.1 million. Collections on internet sales rose 8.5 percent to $237,113.
Sales tax collections also rose for other industry categories — 24.9 percent on home improvements, 13 percent on automobiles and 9.4 percent on hotel stays and restaurant meals. For the first two months of 2022, the city collected a total of almost $12.8 million in sales and use taxes. Compared to the same span in 2021, sales tax collections rose 19.2 percent and use tax collections increased 76.3 percent. Mesa County collected a total of nearly $8.3 million in sales and use taxes in January and February 2022. Compared to the same span in 2021, sales tax collections rose 17.2 percent and use tax collections increased 13.1 percent. County tax collections on retail sales rose 11 percent on a year-over-year basis to more than $2.9 million. Sales tax collections rose 21.1 percent on home improvements, 20.9 percent on hotel stays and restaurant meals and 10.8 percent on automobiles. The City of Grand Junction collected $204,900 in lodging taxes in February. For January and February, the city collected a total of $454,011 in lodging taxes. That was a 69 percent increase over the same two months in 2021. F
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March 24-aPril 6, 2022
Leading index signals growth, but doesn’t reflect invasion
An index forecasting economic conditions in the United States has increased, but doesn’t fully reflect the potential effects of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The Conference Board reported its Leading Economic Index (LEI) increased three-tenths of a percent to 119.9 in February. A separate measure of current conditions also increased, while a measure of past performance remained unchanged. The war in Ukraine could slow economic growth, said Ataman Ozyildirim, senior director of economic research at the Conference Board. “The global economic impact of the war on Ataman Ozyildirim supply chains and soaring energy, food and metals prices — couple with rising interest rates, existing labor shortages and high inflation — all pose headwinds to U.S. economic growth.” The Conference Board projects gross domestic product — the broad measure of goods and services produced in the country — to grow 3 percent on a year-over-year basis in 2022. The LEI has increased 2.1 percent over the past six months, down from 5.4 percent over the six-month span before that. Strength among leading indicators remains widespread, though. By comparison, GDP grew at an annual rate of 7 percent in the fourth quarter of 2021 and 2.3 percent in the third quarter. For February, seven of 10 indicators of the LEI increased, including average weekly manufacturing hours, interest rate spread, leading credit and new orders indexes and new orders for capital and consumer goods. A decline in average weekly initial claims for unemployment benefits also bolstered the index. Building permits, consumer expectations and stock prices declined. The Coincident Economic Index rose four-tenths of a percent to 108. The index has increased 1.5 percent over the past six months. For February, all four indicators advanced: industrial production, nonfarm payrolls, personal income and sales. The Lagging Economic Index held steady at 110.3. The index has increased 1.3 percent over the past three months. For February, two of seven indicators advanced — consumer credit and the cost of services. Commercial and industrial financing and inventories declined. An increase in the average duration of unemployment also pulled down the index. The average prime rate charged by banks held steady, as did the cost of labor. F
Trends Contributors Opinion Facing constant change Business Briefs Business People Almanac
March 24-april 6, 2022
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COMING ATTRACTIONS
n The Business Incubator Center in Grand Junction has scheduled workshops and webinars offering information about a range of topics. Upcoming sessions of a business startup workshop are set for 1 to 4:30 p.m. March 24, April 7 and May 5 at the center, located at 2591 Legacy Way. The workshops will cover the business planning process, including financing options, legal structures, licensing, state registration and trade name searches. Admission is $55, which also includes admission into one-hour Fast Trac classes. A free Fiinance Friday webinar is scheduled for 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. March 25. A class on the fundamentals of Excel spreadsheets is set for 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. March 28. Participants will learn to create various calculation functions, then develop spreadsheets for their businesses. Admission is $35. For more information about upcoming events, programs and services at the Business Incubator Center, call 243-5242 or log on to http://gjincubator.org. n The Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business has scheduled its annual women’s conference for 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 31 at the Cameo Shooting and Education Complex, located 3934 I 9/10 Road near Palisade. The conference will include a keynote lunch presentation by Kayla Holst, deputy director public affairs officer with the Veterans Affairs Rocky Mountain Network. Breakout sessions will cover such topics as managing stress, marketing, negotiating skills and prioritizing wellbeing in the midst of change. A panel discussion on female leadership in government will feature officials with the Mesa County Commission and Grand Junction and Fruita city councils. After the conference, particpants may join in networking or shooting at the complex. Tickets sell for $50 for chamber members and $60 for others. Table sponsorships sell for $500 and include eight tickets. To register or obtain additional information, call 858-3894 or visit https://fruitachamber.org.
Conference to offer help in keeping up with employment laws For Colorado business owners and managers handling day-to-day employment issues, it might seem as though the only constant these days is change. The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment recently overhauled regulations for how employers must treat paid leave even as state and federal courts change how employment laws are interpreted. The Colorado Legislature proposes new employment measures — including bills that would dramatically alter how employees report work-related injuries, provide employees greater rights use medical marijuana on employers’ Michael to premises and restrict an employers’ Santo rights to contract with its employees on noncompete agreements. Moreover, it’s likely the Colorado Legislature will soon propose a bill that would overhaul state laws involving discrimination, harassment and retaliation issues. In the process, the bill could create additional responsibilities for organizations to investigate work-related complaints. To help employers, keep abreast of these changes, the Western Colorado Human Resource Association has scheduled its annual spring employment law conference for April 26 at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction. Bechtel & Santo, a Grand Junction law firm that advises clients on day-to-day employment issues, will present the conference, offering sessions on a variety of topics. The conference is set to begin with a morning session offering a legislative and case law update. The update will will include all employment-related measures before the Colorado Legislature. The update also will also address such topics as the Colorado Equal Pay Act as well as how changes in the alphabet soup of federal laws and agencies affect employers — the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) and Equal
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
The Western Colorado Human Resource Association has scheduled its annual spring employment law conference for 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 26. The conference will be offered virtually as well as an in-person event at the Colorado Mesa University ballroom in Grand Junction. Admission is $199 for WCHRA members and $349 for others. Prices will increase April 1. To register or obtain more information, visit the website at www.wchra.org.
Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). A session will address paid leave requirements in Colorado under the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act as well as Colorado Proposition 118, which will provide 12 weeks of paid leave for most employers. After lunch, a question-and-answer session will enable attendees to pose questions to a panel of lawyers. A train the trainer session on discrimination and harassment with a focus on equity, diversity and inclusion will help employers learn how to develop their teams in the changing workplace. In sum, the conference will offer a full day of presentations and guidance on constantly changing employment law issues. Michael Santo is co-founder and managing partner of Bechtel & Santo, a Grand Junction law firm that advises Colorado companies large and small on a variety of employment issues. This column was provided by the Western Colorado Human Resource Association. For more information about Bechtel & Santo, call 683-5883 or visit https://bechtelsanto.com. For more information about the WCHRA, visit www.wchra.org. F
Chamber schedules energy summit for March 30 Executives from a utility and minerals company are among those expected to speak at an upcoming energy summit in Grand Junction. Alice Jackson, president of Xcel Energy-Colorado, and Jim Sims, vice president of external affairs for NioCorp Developments, both will deliver keynote presentations. The Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce scheduled the summit for 8 a.m to 1:30 p.m. March 30 at
the Grand Junction Convention Center, 159 Main St. Breakout sessions at the summit will cover such topics as geothermal energy, hydrogen hubs, natural gas and solar energy development and small-scale nuclear plants. The summit is open to the public. Admission is $65, which includes lunch. For reservations or more information, visit the chamber website at https://gjchamber.org. F
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March 24-aPril 6, 2022
Strive to bring your best — not baggage — to work People travel between the connected worlds of the personal and professional. When there’s balance, happiness, purpose and success in life outside business, the version of themselves people take into the workplace is different than when that’s not the case. Some people believe there’s a barrier between personal and professional lives. If you step back and take a discerning and honest look at your experiences and those of others with which you’ve worked, you’ll realize that’s not the case. In fact, it’s common for people to carry their personal baggage through the front door, unpack and spread it throughout the workplace. Marcus Extended family matters, parenting Straub challenges and relationship issues all weigh heavily on the hearts and minds of those affected. When they’re not managed effectively, those occurrences also can exert harmful and even lasting effects on attitudes, morale, performance — and businesses. Compound these with such additional circumstances as financial and health problems, lack of fulfillment and the despair that accompanies them, and the potential for dysfunctional behaviors and disasters increases. Who people are at work affects team members, customers and bottom lines in profound ways. Business owners and managers — anyone in leadership roles — have the largest effects, positive and negative, on the work environment. Team members look to these individuals for direction and stability. When leaders are lost in personal issues or unable to separate from them on the job, the entire team will be affected. A noticeable funk can easily overcome an entire department or business.
I’ve watched top performers lose all sense of direction and focus due to mounting personal issues and their inability to deal with them in constructive ways. Even after years of dedicated work, it can be a quick slide from the top.
As a business coach and consultant, I’ve watched top performers lose all sense of direction and focus due to mounting personal issues and their inability to deal with them in constructive ways. Even after years of dedicated work, it can be a quick slide from the top when personal challenges overwhelm the ability to function at the high levels to which they and others have grown accustomed. An increase in errors and customer dissatisfaction — often due to lack of focus and disengagement — coupled with a loss of revenue and the negative effects on the work environment can only be tolerated for so long before a team member must be let go. This doesn’t have to be the case. Personal challenges belong solely to the people experiencing them — not everyone at work. And certainly not to customers patronizing the business. One successful strategy is to view work as a timeout or getaway from personal challenges. By diverting your attention and energy to the work at hand, you give yourself a muchneeded break from the painful reality of your personal circumstances as well as the opportunity to feel better as you excel professionally. I’m in no way suggesting anyone should deny or
avoid the challenging realities of their personal lives. My position is quite the opposite. My approach suggests there’s an appropriate time and a place for dealing with the difficulties of life. But that place is not at work. People often believe they should just pull themselves up by the bootstraps because seeking assistance with their challenges constitutes a sign of weakness. This is a difficult, lonely and unsuccessful route, however. If you find yourself challenged to take back your life on your own, there’s no shame in that. Seeking the professional help of qualified coach to get yourself and your life in balance and on track is a wise choice indeed. It’s amazing what can be accomplished with increased awareness, simple changes in perspective, goal setting and accountability supplied through the unbiased support of a competent coach. Unexpected, unwanted and challenging situations are part of life. They can be difficult, but don’t have to damage or destroy a career or business. If your ability to function at a high level and enjoy success and happiness is compromised by issues in your personal life, get the assistance you need to bring your best — not your baggage — to work.
Marcus Straub owns Life is Great Coaching in Grand Junction. His personalized coaching and consulting services help individuals, business owners, executives and companies build teams, organizations and lives filled with happiness and success. Straub is winner of the International Coach of the Year Award and author of “Is It Fun Being You?” He’s available for free consultations regarding coaching, speaking and trainings. Reach Straub at (970) 208-3150, marcus@ligcoaching.com or through the website located at www.ligcoaching.com. F
March 24-april 6, 2022
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Underinsured? Rising building costs make it likely As the Marshall Fire in the Boulder area revealed, it’s essential to regularly update your property insurance for fire and other hazards. Of course, this wasn’t the first wildfire to demonstrate the need to purchase and regularly update insurance for your business, rental properties and home. Think back to the East Troublesome Fire in 2020 and Hayman Fire in the early 2000s. Many of the businesses and homes destroyed in the East Troublesome and Hayman fires were were older. After the mortgages Janet were paid, owners dropped fire and Arrowood hazard coverages and kept liability insurance only. Other businesses and homes were uninsured. In the Marshall Fire, even the newest properties were almost immediately underinsured because of the rapidly increasing costs of building and labor. What does it mean to be underinsured? How does this happen, especially when a business or home is nearly new and insurance companies asked dozens of valuation questions before issuing policies? A building should be insured for at least 80 percent of what it would cost to rebuild from the ground up. Rebuilding costs don’t include the value of the land or foundation unless the foundation was destroyed. In the recent past, the resale price of a building with associated property was usually significantly more than what it would cost to rebuild the structure. As a result, the insured value was less than the resale price. According to a story by Noelle Phillips in the Denver Post — https://www.denverpost.com/2022/02/18/
Since the cost of the components of constructing a building have skyrocketed, a building that was adequately insured even a month or two ago might now be underinsured.
colorado-marshall-fire-insurance-underinsured — the underinsurance problem is exacerbated by how expensive new home construction has become in Colorado during the COVID-19 pandemic with supply chain backups, labor shortages and rising inflation. Since the cost of the components of constructing a building have skyrocketed, a building that was adequately insured even a month or two ago might now be underinsured. As soon as the insured value is less than 80 percent of the rebuilding cost, your building is almost certainly underinsured. If you’re underinsured, the insurance company will look at what percentage of the actual rebuild cost your insurance covers. Assume you’re insured for 60 percent of what it would cost to rebuild. If the rebuild cost is $600,000 and your building is a total loss, the insurance company will usually only cover 60 percent of that amount or $360,000. If you suffer a partial loss, say $100,000, the insurance company will usually only cover 60 percent of that amount as well. If the building in the preceding example had a resale estimate of $450,000 (less than the rebuild cost), you might think you’re properly insured since 80 percent of $450,000 is $360,000. You’re not. Resale value has
nothing to do with rebuild value. Not understanding the difference could cost you. Another important consideration to ensure your insurance coverage is adequate is to maintain full replacement value for your belongings rather than actual cash value (the depreciated value). Otherwise, you could be rudely surprised to find out the desk that will cost $1,000 to replace is only worth $100 for insurance replacement purposes. Make sure you have detailed lists of everything inside — with photos and receipts — to ensure you get full replacement for all your stuff. If you’re working from a home office, you need to have a separate business policy for business property, even if your employer extends its coverage to offsite property. What are the risks with being uninsured? Many people make the mistake of dropping insurance coverage once the mortgage is paid off. As so many people discovered after Colorado wildfires, a building can be destroyed in an area where fires aren’t likely to occur. Without insurance coverage, you’re on your own for the cost of demolition, securing the site rebuilding and refurnishing. The bottom line: Resale value has nothing to do with rebuild value. The replacement value of a building isn’t what its estimated resale value is, but what it would cost to reconstruct the same building. Janet Arrowood is founder and managing director of the Write Source, a Grand Junction firm offering a range of services, including grant and proposal writing, instruction and technical writing. Reach her at janet.arrowood@thewritesourceinc.com. For more information, log on to www.TheWriteSourceInc.com. F
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March 24-aPril 6, 2022
Where is your organization located on the matrix? Organizations face a seismic shift toward a postpandemic reality, one without baby boomers. While United States payrolls swelled 6.4 million in 2021, the labor force remains 4 million jobs short of prepandemic levels. Attribute the difference in part to the so-called great resignation. Who, exactly, has resigned? Over the past few years, it’s been baby boomers. That leaves an influx of Gen Zeds — Zoomers, if you will — and a leadership gap. Understanding your organizational culture will allow you to navigate this shift. To help, I present the complexity and capability matrix that exists within all organizations. Understanding the complexity and capability within your Tim organization enables you to distinguish Haggerty critical from mundane and focus on pressing issues. And if ever there’s been cause for complexity, it’s the COVID-19 pandemic. I’m sure some will utter “no duh.” But bear with me. In most cases, it’s the obvious observations that lead to the most elegant solutions. Here’ s the first no duh insight: When the complexity within your organization exceeds capability, you’ll have a poor to underperforming operation. The second no duh observation: I know of only three ways to affect this matrix: reduce complexity; increase capability; or, my favorite, do both.
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Imagine a giant X in the middle of a sheet of paper. The left side is the complexity side. The right side is the capability side. All of this rests upon the foundation of any organization — culture. Right or wrong, good or bad, your culture dictates short- and long-term success. I’ve found the following three descriptors for any organization: poor performing, performing or high performing. Poor performing teams share attributes. Operational complexity exceeds organizational capability. The organization struggles to meet daily business needs. There’s continual crisis management. Most activities are reactive rather than proactive. Little to no sustainable improvement efforts are evident. Management is too busy fighting fires to drive sustainable change. The organization has no time to build capability, adding to the poor performance spiral. You can place these elements to the left side of your paper and well within the confines of the complexity of your organization. Performing teams also share attributes. Organizational capability equals operational complexity. Operational processes enable front line employees to meet daily business needs. Management allocates sufficient time to continuous improvement efforts. The organization has time to build capability. These teams belong in the middle of the matrix. High performing teams share these attributes. Organizational capability exceeds organizational complexity. Established processes and procedures enable flawless daily execution. There’s virtually no fighting fires. Leaders spend adequate time on continuous improvement.
Success breeds success as free time is used to build additional capability, further widening the gap. These teams are located on the right side of the matrix. Many factors affect complexity and capability. New equipment, poor maintenance practices and changes in management and work force are but a few of the variables that must be identified. That’s not to mention an exodus of baby boomers and pandemic. At the core remains a constant that must be continually nurtured and developed. That core is your culture. What makes or breaks any culture is the people within that culture. So the matrix is now complete. But what do we do with it? How can we use this matrix to the advantages of all? And why for all? Keep in mind your culture is your foundation. Leaving certain groups out of the loop or giving favor to certain members will erode that culture. Tim Haggerty and his wife, Bernadette, operate a consulting firm based in Grand Junction that helps clients transition from command-and-control to servant leadership and change the view of wages and benefits from expenses to investments. Haggerty brings to the venture more than 40 years of experience in operations management and a record of decreasing costs while increasing productivity and revenue. Reach him at info@timothyhaggerty.com or (610) 737-0496. More information is available at www.timothyhaggerty.com. F
March 24-april 6, 2022
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Row, row, row your way to fitness and good health What if there was an exercise machine that burns calories to help you lose weight, strengthens and tones muscles and provides a great cardiovascular workout — in other words, a total body workout? You’d probably say, “Tell me more.” There is such a piece of equipment — a rowing machine. Just a few years ago, rowing machines could be found near the back wall in health clubs and you never saw anyone using them. Why the change in popularity? The secret of it’s amazing benefits have been revealed. No. 1 reason why more people Paula don’tThe hop on rowing machines is simple: Reece They don’t know how to use them. Almost anyone can figure out how to walk on a treadmill or pedal a recumbent bicycle. A rowing machine takes a little more finesse, but you’ve got this. Let’s go over of benefits for choosing a rowing machine for your workout, basic rowing techniques, avoiding common mistakes and ways you can start rowing today. As a non-impact exercise, rowing is easy on the back
and joints and an excellent form of exercise for older fitness enthusiasts. Rowing burns substantial calories, making it a great tool for weight loss. Since rowing is an endurance exercise, there are cardiovascular benefits, including improved lung, heart and circulation systems. Because rowing involves almost every major muscle group, stronger, toned muscles are another benefit. Rowing works both the upper body (shoulders, arms and back) and lower body (legs, hips and buttocks) with each stroke. It’s also a performance abdominal exercise since the core remains engaged throughout the exercise. Learning proper rowing technique isn’t as difficult as it seems. According to Concept2, a maker of rowing machines, there’s a four-step process to the rowing stroke: n The catch: This is your starting position where your legs are compressed, arms extended and you’re gripping the handle. n The drive: Focus on pushing with the legs first, next pivoting backward at the hips so your shoulders pass your pelvis (you should be in a slight lay back) and then pulling the arms into your chest. n The finish: This is where the abs stabilize the body and the glutes and quads are contracting as well as the biceps and back muscles. n The recovery: This is the final stage where the
arms are pushed away from the body and the torso moves forward as you slide up to the catch position. Some of the most common rowing technique mistakes are to row only with your arms or hunch your back during the stroke. It takes practice to get the sequence down and create a smooth stroke. There are many ways to incorporate rowing into your exercise routine. It can be performed as a warmup prior to a strength training class or as a cooldown. You might choose to row during a high-intensity interval training program in which you engage in short bursts of high-intensity exercise followed by short periods of slower-paced rowing. You might incorporate rowing as your primary cardiovascular workout as you would exercise on a stationary bike or treadmill. Rowing machines are used by everyone from cardiac rehabilitation patients to Olympic athletes. Because of the wide range of health benefits associated with rowing, you might consider making rowing part of your lifelong fitness routine. 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. F
Cryptocurrency becoming an option in purchasing real estate Consumers are becoming more and more comfortable using virtual currencies for making purchases — including residential and commercial real estate. The United States Internal Revenue Service describes virtual currencies as digital representations of the U.S. dollar or foreign currencies that function as a unit of account, store of value and medium of exchange. Some virtual currencies are convertible with an equivalent value in real currency or act as a substitute for real currency. Cryptocurrency is a type of Tim virtual currency using cryptography Whitney to secure transactions digitally recorded on a distributed ledger, such as a blockchain. Two of the more recognizable cryptocurrencies are Bitcoin and Ethereum. More than 100 countries are exploring or piloting
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There are pros and cons to buying and selling real estate with virtual currencies. central bank digital currencies (CBDCs), a digital form of a country’s sovereign currency. Even the White House recognizes virtual currencies. President Joe Biden recently signed an executive order on ensuring responsible development of digital assets. According to a White House fact sheet, digital assets, including cryptocurrencies, have seen explosive growth in recent years, surpassing a $3 trillion market cap last November. That’s up from $14 billion just five years prior. According to surveys, about 16 percent of adults in the U.S. — approximately 40 million people — have invested in, traded or used cryptocurrencies. While the use of virtual currencies to purchase real estate isn’t yet widespread, momentum is building. There
has been a significant uptick in the number of properties advertised for sale in which the seller is willing to accept Bitcoin or another cryptocurrency. There are pros and cons to buying and selling real estate with virtual currencies. The biggest drawback is volatility. And at least for now, banks, title companies and some others don’t accept cryptocurrency as payment. Some cash will still be needed at the close of the transaction. While paying with virtual currency might not be the first choice in buying real estate today, it can be an option. 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.CBC-Prime.com. F
Contributors Opinion Bold predictions My solution is to for end2015 the Longevity has Business rewards main A new year affords Briefs problem to any solution more like not-so-bold repeats in working with sources a new opportunity Business People Almanac to meet local needs THE he B BUSINESS usiness T T Times IMES
PPAGE age 26 22
One of the advantages of working at one business journal for so long is the opportunity longevity affords to get to know entrepreneurs and others involved in the business community. One of the disadvantages is the people you meet and withalways whombrings you develop professional sometimes A new year almost an opportunity for arelationships fresh start and Theybetter. sell their ventures. They move away to take other renewed ambition toleave. do things They retire. In business, thatjobs. usually boils down to providing customers better products a bitcost likethan riding a subway. You onprocess at one stop and services faster and atIt’s lower competitors. Part hop of the mustand ride for a while with other passengers. If you’re include listening to customers to determine what they actually need fortunate, and then you get themgood and learn about interests meeting that need. After all,to it know does little to offer the their latestabilities, and greatest if andwhat goals. Eventually, nobody actually wants you’re selling.though, they get off. It’s unlikely you’ll ever getthat on and off the subway same group. Area All you Just like the businesses belong to the group,with the the Grand Junction can invariably do is enjoystarts theirout company Chamber of Commerce the newwhile year you withcan. a reassessment of I’llit never forget individuals. I long ago the services and resources provides andthem how as well they matchBut with members PhilJeff Castle of the collective number board of business owners and needs. Franklin,lost the track new chairman of the chamber of directors, managers, government and organizational personifies this approach in describing whatofficials he considers his role for theleaders coming I’ve counted as news sources over the years and with whom no longer year: listen to members, determine their needs and then meetIthose needs.work. It’s a comes to mind as I report impending retirement of Diane role All withthis which Franklin is familiar as about marketthe president of Bank of Colorado. Schwenke. The president of the Junction Area The process will takeand on achief moreexecutive structuredofficer approach inGrand what the chamber Chamber of resumption Commerce is the sources it’s been my privilege to work with plans as the of among a program aptly called Listening to Business. Under the the longest. program, business owners participate in in-depth interviews to identify barriers to I still interviewing Diane for one of the first stories I wrote for the growth andremember other problems they encounter. Business Times. That wasabefore I became and worked on a freelance basis. The new year offers good time to joineditor the proverbial club. ThatAs wasanalso 25 years Doesn’t flyneed by? In a blink it seems.Times? advertiser orago. reader, what time do you from the Business I’ve interviewed Diane countless times sinceand then. I called upon hernews so to While business journals traditionally gather report the relevant frequently for several reasons. For one, she was always prompt in responding readers, communication isn’t necessarily a one-way street. That’s especially true as to mysites requests, mindful journalists face deadlines and sooner always better Web and e-mail make the dialogue more convenient than isever. than Good later. For another, she knew aboutThey Grandrespond Valley to businesses publications don’t existsoinmuch a vacuum. the needsand of the challenges businesses If there everneeded. was a go-to source who kept her advertisers local and readers. Theyface. provide what’s finger the do proverbial pulse of the business community, it was Diane. Soonwhat you need? IIstalked with others who’ve worked Diane over theyou years. They about there additional news coverage thatwith would help keep informed described her as aggressive and impatient — butthat in awould good way because she local business developments? Are there features be interesting or wanted to there tackleadvice problems findmake solutions as quickly possible. Again, the useful? Is that and would your jobs a littleaseasier? sooner better.important Moreover, afraidneed. of the often raucous intersection It’sthe equally to she ask was whatnever you don’t With limited time to of business and politics — orspace backed down from her fierce defense businesses produce content and limited in which to publish it, would timeofand space be and business That’selse? exactly the kind of leader businesses need in an better devotedinterests. to something advocacy What’sgroup. good? What isn’t? What’s needed? What isn’t? I’m notknow. certain when will Comment get off theonline subway expects Let us Send us Diane an e-mail. on— thealthough Businessshe Times Web asite successor will be selected soon. Nor I know retirement adventures at www.thebusinesstimes.com. Youdo could evenwhere writeher an old-fashioned letter to will take her. Somewhere enjoyable and rewarding, hope. the editor if you’d like. Your feedback, both positive Iand negative, is valued and For now, though, I remain grateful for all those news sources with which I’ve will be carefully considered. beenGood blessed to enjoy our publications areride the together. result of not only the efforts of their staffs, but also That certainly Diane Schwenke. collaborative effortsincludes involving advertisers and readers. Like any other good business, we want to listen to our customers, find out Phil is editor of the Business Times. Reach him at 424-5133 or whatCastle they need and then meet those needs. phil@thebusinesstimes.com. It’s a new year. Please help us to do so. F ✦
THE BUSINESS TIMES
609 North Ave., Suite 2, Grand Junction, CO 81501 TEL (970) 424-5133 • FAX (970) 424-5134
Publisher/Owner: Craig R. Hall
Editor: Phil Castle
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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. © 2022 — All rights reserved.
Those of you who know me know I end up inIt’s toothat many conversations that take up time of year when entirely too much of my time and attention. resolutions and prognostications abound. When I’m honest, a bad My favorite sayingI realize appliedthat’s to New Year’s thing — whether I beganthey’re the conversation, resolutions is in saying basically a jumped someone or bunch ofinto promises toelse’s breakconversation the first week was invited into conversation. of January. Andawhile I won’t predict a Welot, also know whole I can pretty much accurately where mostthings of these nail a few that without question little chats that can You will see these are will make the news. turn intowell, full-blown pretty, predictable: diatribes take place.one: All ■ Prediction too many place on There willtake be some Facebook. Moreevent, than a sort of weather few havedisaster me involved natural or via email.occurrence And if my heinous life history is anywill where someone indication, a fewand occur be interviewed say Craig Hall after a beer or two at the following: “I’ve local holes. neverwatering seen anything Nowinyou like that mymight say all these “arenas” remind lifetime.”— It’sthey as if this me of the Roman Hall Colosseum the fightsCraig to the death I’ve person is a given required experienced — arenews avoidable. And you’d be attendee at every right. But that’s another column reporting event.fodder Whilefor I understand most on another day. In these people’s perspective cantrying, indeedgovernment be limited overreaching, insanity laden are by, or contained within, theirtimes, own there personal just some things can’tmuch let gotoonce experiences, it isI too ask someone to makes statement. And those statements consultasome historical perspective before usually comeafrom folks to use can saying such thing? Yes,who thislust response government to control takeitaway apply to some events. others, But when comes inalienable and, yes, the government to weather rights and natural disasters, I’m pretty itself. sure this is simply history repeating itself. when and I do,millions my SameSoasI itdabble. has forAnd millions of role is More generally a simplethe one. At least years. important, planet made it! to me.didn’t Yet forwere thosecertain on thespecies. left, it always What How’s seems their capacity to think that foroutside perspective? about. percent timeto a ■ Honestly, Prediction99 two: Whenofitthe comes my response can be that summed upbetween in a few crime or something occurs sentences: the government humans, theRemove other required attendee from at all its rolereporting in whatever is occurring. Letwho the news events is the person free comewe’re up with says market this: “They just solutions the nicestto make situation better. choices people,theand in no way didAnd I seegive something to government overreach likethose this affected coming.”by Exactly. No one does to decide what’s them and most of the time best whenfor it comes to their families. believe for just about everyshould neighborsI and acquaintances. People instance in society, thatonsimple. be surprised at whatit’s goes from time to for those who can’t even begin time But in their neighborhoods, towns and to comprehend government is at people best a are with people they know because necessary believing good. Andevil for — themistakenly times that they shouldn’t it’s always the for solutions, be shocked — best like source with politicians, repeat especially in using force— to make others offenders and terrorists where’s the behave while rights interview thatsubjugating says, “This individual doesn’t surprise and freedoms — my solution isn’t even seen me in the least.” as an■option. Let alone any thought. Prediction three:given Something good There’seconomically, a reason I’m and writing will happen the this, and it comeswill down a response I getmost government taketocredit for it. The time again is in gas these conversations. It’s recentand example prices, where people basically theI same what’s ask me why won’tquestion: credit the “Then president for your solution, Outside of not low gas prices. Craig?” My answer is simple: actually comprehending I’veofbeen Government never makes what the price saying — probably by dismissing outright something go down and simply takes credit my solution to Gas almost everyis problem for good news. pricing subject to in the global publicfactors. arena — it’s there to remove many Now are government from thetocrisis. Especially government answers addressing some of since government create, increase them to keep pricesloves stabletofor Americans, in and thenhas offer solutions butseverity our government none of themtoin those place. crises. The only things it has in place in the
March 24-a15-28, Pril 6, 2015 2022 JANUARY
Perhaps an anecdote would help. Another a chat recently long run participant always hurt in consumers. Another asked my solution was toa the fact is me thatwhat unemployment reaches certain pathetic performance of ourAnd education level based on the economy. while the system. Thismight question from someone government bragcame the number is low, in in a nutshell it’seducation more thanwho likelytold theme government did a teacher’s important role was to teach somethingmost to cause that number being low kids to not get in along withway. everyone and give — and a good Conversely, when them the picks valuesup,needed to make world business it’s because the the people awho better place. need to buy widgets who were not No,widgets it isn’t.because The jobthe of economy our schools buying was is to teach kids to write complete contracting due how to natural (or unnatural, sentences with goodreasons, grammar, add up government caused) decided we numbers get the right answers, read better buytosome widgets. The government and comprehend had nothing to do information with this. and develop the cognitive skills needed to address ■ Prediction four: In keeping with the situations they’ll experience. It’s notthe to things the government does, I predict promote agenda-based ideals valuesto government will manipulate theand numbers in molding minds. make the claim the economy is getting education system kids a to betterOur because of how hard itgives is working horrible, woke-valued, help all ofagenda-driven, us “working Americans.” Now underperforming experience in most you might say, “Craig, you always say this school districts.Obama It’s because of you one don’t thing: about President because Government involvement in the Ieducation like him.” You’re right in a sense. don’t system. ironic well, sad — howand know theIt’s man, but — what I know of him the biggest decline with feds his thinking, I don’t began like it or himthe one iota. taking theoff, system. ThatI didn’t gave unions Before over you go however, like ultimate as government unions Presidentpower, Bush and his bailouts, stimulus tend to have, with the of save and his abandoning theDepartment free market to Education in theAnd 1970s. “How canhim this the free market. I don’t know be?” ask.theSimple. Government either.you What government does, and the solutions — only thingcreate it can more do, is problems hurt the economy. which intent, by — that Unlessisit their does nothing or the put way criminals in prompt more louderwith callsthem, from nothing those jail instead of and partnering in for still more thecontrol government does willgovernment help. Always look solutions. Andwhatever the wheels on the bus go at it this way, the government says round and round. Dothe they even that it is doing, whatever name of teach the law it ditty anymore? Probably since theyof is passing, or whatever thenot, name or goal don’t teach much else. the bureaucracy it is presenting to the Theexpect why our in education and people, the decline polar opposite to occur. society is simple. Government, along with I guess what I’m saying is that those in control bureaucracy, perhaps it’s timeoftowhichever get out of our own is always about implementing the latest, perspective. There’s plenty of history greatest, coolest and research most expensive books and historical out there to programs available from its of hand-picked begin to understand that all this has “experts” solveAnd problems. one happened to before. it will Yet again, question is never Will solution whether the topic asked: is people orthis government. actually results, or are we going Thegive best us recommendation is to find to justbooks go along with good intentions some or try that whole Googleand create more problems? thing. There’s a lot of information on the answer ISThe obvious, GreatThe Depression. truth and is it yet wasn’t ignored or never to be even a good one attempted until the government got understood because there’s noofpower in involved. There’s also plenty research just saying no to warm government on the medieval period solutions. when the To quote Sonny “There’s planet was muchCorleone, warmer than todayawith lot of money in that ****, Pop.” Power, a whole lot less people (and warmer well money and control areatwhat before man was here all). government And yep, solutions arebeen all about. people have killing other surprised Don’t believe me? How’re those people since history was first written. COVID-19 working ya?stop Maybe solutions some research willfor help we don’t takeOtherwise, the first step to solve all ofIfthese trends. we’ll be society’s problems, will neverlike be ita in saying we’ve never there seen anything solution. our lives. And not in a good way. Craig Craig Hall Hall is is owner owner and and publisher publisher of of the the Business Business Times. Times. Reach Reach him him at at 424-5133 424-5133 or or publisher@thebusinesstimes.com. publisher@thebusinesstimes.com. F ✦
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n DALBY, WENDLAND & CO. MAKES LIST OF TOP COLORADO ACCOUNTING FIRMS
Dalby, Wendland & Co. (DWC) ranks among the top Colorado accounting firms in a list compiled for ColoradoBiz magazine. Headquartered in Grand Junction, DWC was the only Western Colorado firm to make the list. “Our firm founders, Walt Dalby and Wes Wendland, set the bar early on for the best client service and highest of technical Chris West expertise. As we grow, we continue to push the bar to help our clients and communities be successful,” said Chris West, chief executive officer. “It is an honor to be recognized as a top Colorado accounting firm. We are proud of our team members, clients and communities.” Nineteen firms made the list, which appears in the spring 2022 issue of ColoradoBiz magazine. The firms are ranked by number of Colorado employees — ranging from KPMG with 944 employees to Boulder CPA Group with 18 employees. DWC has a staff of 90. DWC operates the largest public accounting firm headquartered in Western Colorado with offices in Grand Junction as well as Aspen, Glenwood Springs, Montrose, Rifle and Telluride. The firm offers a range of accounting, auditing, bookkeeping and consulting services. For more information, call 243-1921 or visit the website at www.dalbycpa.com. n SUGGESTIONS SOUGHT FOR PRESENTATIONS AT 2022 WEST SLOPE STARTUP WEEK
Suggestions will be accepted through April 15 for educational sessions that will be presented at the 2022 West Slope Startup Week. The free regional business conference is set for July 11 to 15 with virtual events throughout rural Colorado and in-person events in Grand Junction. Lectures and workshops will offer information related to seven tracks: capital, communications, makers, people and technology. What are billed as toolbox sessions will address fundamental topics and skills building. A fun track offer social events and outdoor activities. To submit an idea for sessions or obtain more information, log on to https://westslopestartupweek.com.
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An electronics repair franchise has opened a location in Grand Junction. The uBreakiFix by Asurion store is located at 2454 U.S. Highway 6 and 50, unit 115. “We are excited to serve more people in Grand Junction with fast and affordable tech repair,” said Dave Barbuto, chief executive officer Dave Barbuto of uBreakiFix. “We all rely on our phones and laptops more than ever before. And at uBreakIFix, our mission is bigger than repairing shattered screens and broken charge ports. We fix tech because people rely on tech to stay connected to things that are important to them.” Chris and Amanda Koch own the Grand Junction franchise. “The Western Slope of Colorado is not only known for its beautiful nature and outdoor activities, but also its advances in the tech world,” Amanda Koch said. “Although we prefer a more off-the-grid lifestyle, we want our community to always feel connected. Our team is dedicated to helping keep our customers who are on the go in the great outdoors with timely service and quality repairs.” Founded in 2009 in Florida, uBreakiFix has grown to a total of more than 700 locations in the United States and Canada. The store offers professional repair services for everything from smartphones, tablets and laptops to game consoles, smart speakers and drones. Most basic repairs can be completed in two hours or less. uBreakiFix is an authorized service provider for Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel smartphones. For more information or to schedule a repair, log on to ubreakifix.com/locations/ grandjunction.
n NOMINATION LETTERS DUE APRIL 5 FOR EXCELLENCE IN ENTREPRENEURSHIP AWARD Nomination letters will be accepted through April 5 for the Excellence in Entrepreneurship Award that will be presented at the upcoming Entrepreneurship Day event at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction. The event is set for April 27 and will include a keynote luncheon presentation by Kurtis Minder, co-founder and chief executive officer of GroupSense. Minder not only built a digital risk solutions operation, but also has negotiated some of the largest ransomware, breach and data extortion cases worldwide. Tickets sell for $60 each or $500 for a table for eight. To be eligible for the Excellence in Entrepreneurship Award, a nominee must have started a business or taken one to a significant new level, experienced at least three years of successful operations and contributed to regional economic development as well as exemplify entrepreneurial values. Nominations should be mailed to Excellence in Entrepreneurship Committee, Department of Business Administration, Attention Christine Noel, Colorado Mesa University, 1100 North Ave., Grand Junction, CO 81501. n GRAND JUNCTION CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RECOGNIZES EXPANSIVE EFFORTS The Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce honored two businesses and an organization for expansions involving a total of $100,000 in capital investments and 14 new jobs. The chamber recognized the businesses and organizations during its latest quarterly membership luncheon. Ambassador Blind & Shutter was honored for a $65,000 investment. CommWest was honored for a $35,000 investment and one new job. Food Bank of the Rockies was recognized for 13 new jobs. F
Mesa Mall springs into season with Easter festivities Mesa Mall in Grand Junction has scheduled a variety of activities as part of an upcoming Easter celebration. “We are excited to once again celebrate the Easter season through colorful events that make the Mesa Mall bloom with a sense of community,” said Jay Greenberg, general manager. “We are committed to providing ways for guests to engage, connect and explore yearround and look forward to welcoming families Jay Greenberg to experience spring through visits with the Easter bunny, exciting egg hunts, interactive crafts and more.” The Easter bunny will be at Mesa Mall March 25 through April 16 and available for photos.
March 24-aPril 6, 2022
A free breakfast with bunny event is set for 10 a.m. to noon March 25. Participating children and families will connect over breakfast and make Easter-themed crafts. From 9:30 to 11 a.m. March 27, those with sensory sensitivities will meet with the Easter bunny in a quieter, less-crowded setting. From 5 to 7 p.m. April 4, the Easter bunny will be available for photos with guests and their pets. Located at 2424 U.S. Highway 6 & 50, Mesa Mall is the largest indoor shopping mall serving Western Colorado and Eastern Utah with shopping, dining and entertainment. For more information about the breakfast with bunny event and other upcoming activities at Mesa Mall, visit the website at https://shopmesamall.com/events. F
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n BROKER ASSOCIATES JOIN TEAM AT GRAND JUNCTION REAL ESTATE FIRM
Schnicka Heal and Serena Salgado have joined Heiden Homes Realty in Grand Junction as broker associates. Heal relocated to Grand Junction from the Midwest in 2019. She’s worked in school systems in Iowa and Grand Junction as well as for the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles. She also managed a home for women, mentored children in foster care, Schnicka Heal organized women’s events and painted homes. Salgado brings to her duties experience as vice president and office manager of Salgado Concrete. She holds a degree in business administration from Intellitec College. Heiden Homes Realty operates offices at 735 Rood Ave. For more information, call 245-7777 or visit the Serena Salgado website at www.heidenhomes.com. n MESA COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 51 NAMES CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Clint Garcia will join Mesa County School District 51 as chief operations officer. Garcia brings to his duties experience in a variety of executive positions, including chief operations officer at Genesis Group, director of facilities and capital projects for Pikes Peak Community College and Clint Garcia facilities manager for Widefield School District. He holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and master’s degree in business administration.
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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 COMMUNITY HOSPITAL MEDICAL OFFICER NAMED ADMINISTRATOR OF THE YEAR Dr. Thomas Tobin, an emergency medicine physician and chief medical officer at Community Hospital in Grand Junction, has been selected as the American Academy of Emergency Medicine (AAEM) 2022 Administrator of the Year. “This award recognizes an administrator deserving special recognition for their dedication to Thomas Tobin emergency medicine and patient care,” said Dr. Lisa Moreno, president of the AAEM. Tobin has belonged to AAEM for 20 years. He served on the board of directors from 2016 to 2020 and currently serves on the AAEM Physician Group. “Dr. Tobin is extremely deserving of this award,” said Chris Thomas, president and chief executive officer of Community Hospital. “Alongside his administrative duties, he is also an outstanding emergency room physician, having exemplary work ethic. Dr. Tobin’s diverse health care knowledge and leadership have been invaluable during COVID-19. We were not only able to survive COVID-19 as a health care organization, but thrived as a result of his leadership and unwavering dedication to getting through one of the most challenging times our generation has ever faced.” For more information about Community Hospital, visit www.YourCommunityHopsital.com. F
Grand Junction author pens high-octane mystery Grand Junction author Terri Benson has written a new novel titled “The Pickup Artist.” The novel, the first in the Bad Carma Mystery series, is scheduled for release April 1 in print and ebook through Amazon, Barnes & Noble and other bookstores. A book signing is set for 2 to 4 p.m. April 16 at the Barnes & Noble location at 2451 Patterson Road in Grand Junction. “The Pickup Artist” tells the story of Renni Delacroix, a classic car restorer who makes psychic connections with the old cars she touches. Her latest project reveals the existence of Terri Benson a serial killer. When her family and friends are endangered by the killer’s attempts to eliminate her, Delacroix turns to old-fashioned detecting to discover the killer’s identity. “The Pickup Artist” is the third traditionally published novel for Benson, who wrote two historical romances in “The Angel and the Demon” and “An Unsinkable Love.” She also has written nearly 100 articles and short stories and presents at writers workshops and conferences. For more information, visit her website at www.terribensonwriter.com. F
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March 24 n Club 20 watershed summit, March 24 and 25, Colorado Mesa University, Grand Junction. Admission ranges from $35 to $225. www.club20.com n Welcome Thursday Friends networking meeting, noon to 1:30 p.m., Camilla’s Kaffe, 206 E. Aspen Ave., Fruita. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 n Business startup workshop, 1 to 4:30 p.m., Business Incubator Center, 2591 Legacy Way, Grand Junction. Admission $55. 243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org March 25 n Free Finance Friday webinar, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Registration required. https://gjincubator.org or 243-5242 March 28 n Class on the fundamentals of Excel spreadsheets, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., Business Incubator Center. Admission $35. https://gjincubator.org or 243-5242 March 29 n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m., Freeway Bowl, 1900 E. Main St. Admission $10 in advance, $12 at the door. https://gjchamber.org or 242-3214 March 30 n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce energy summit, 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Grand Junction Convention Center, 159 Main St. Admission $65. https://gjchamber.org or 242-3214 March 31 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business annual conference, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Cameo Shooting and Education Complex, 3934 I 9/10 Road, Palisade.Admission $50. Table sponsor $500, which includes eight tickets. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 n Young Professionals Network of Mesa County business after hours, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Axeology, 2487 Industrial Blvd., Unit 6, Grand Junction. Admission $10. Limited to 25 members. Reservations required. www.ypnmc.org Upcoming n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business free networking lunch, noon to 1 p.m. April 7, KAFM Radio, 1310 Ute Ave., Grand Junction. Participants should bring a soup, salad or side dish to share. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 n Business startup workshop, 1 to 4:30 p.m. April 7, Business Incubator Center. Admission $55. 243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business mala bead workshop, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. April 12, Ordinary Fellow, 202 Peach Ave., Palisade. Admission $36, which includes workshop and a glass of wine. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce networking at noon, 11:45 a.m. April 14, Junct’n Square, 119 N. Seventh St. Admission $20 for chamber members, $25 for others. 242-3214 or https://gjchamber.org See ALMANAC page 31
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Continued from page 30 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. April 14, location to be announced. Admission $5 for chamber members, $10 for others. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 n Coffee Club networking group, 9 to 10 a.m. April 15, FWorks, 325 E. Aspen Ave., Fruita. Event free for members of the Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce, $5 for others. 858-3894 or https://fruitachamber.org n Palisade Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m. April 20, Colorado Vintner’s Collective, 3674 G Road. Admission for chamber members $5 in advance and $6 at the door. Admission for others $8 in advance and $10 at the door. https://palisadecoc.com or 464-7458 n Western Colorado Human Resource Association
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legislative conference, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 26, Colorado Mesa University and virtually by Zoom. Admission ranges from $99 to $349. www.wchra.org n Western Colorado Economic Summit, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 26, Grand Junction Convention Center, 159 Main St. Admission $75. westcoeconomicsummit.com n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce presentation on the benefits of membership, noon to 1 p.m. April 26, chamber offices at 360 Grand Ave. and virtually through Zoom. https://gjchamber.org or 242-3214 n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m. April 26, Western Colorado Community College, 2508 Blichmann Ave. Admission $10 in advance and $12 at the door. https://gjchamber.org or 242-3214 n Colorado Mesa University Entrepreneurship Day
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featuring keynote luncheon speaker Kurtis Minder, co-founder and chief executive officer of GroupSense, noon to 1:30 p.m. April 27, CMU ballroom. Tickets sell for $60 for individuals, $500 for a table for eight and $1,000 for sponsors. https://www.supportingcmu.com/Eday n Welcome Thursday Friends networking meeting, noon to 1:30 p.m. April 28, Munchies, 550 Kokopelli Drive, Fruita. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 n Business startup workshop, 1 to 4:30 p.m. April 28, Business Incubator Center. Admission $55. 243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org n Homebuilders Association of Western Colorado Home and Garden Expo, April 30 and May 1, Mesa County Fairgrounds, 2785 U.S. Highway 50, Grand Junction. 245-0253 F
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