The Business Times Volume 28 Issue 6

THE BUSINESS T IMES News MARCH 25-APRIL 14, 2021

THE DEFINITIVE SOURCE FOR GRAND JUNCTION BUSINESS NEWS SINCE 1994

VOLUME 28, ISSUE 6

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In this issue

Trends 2 Contributors Opinion 4 Business Briefs 5 Business People Almanac

n Moving effort

A cybersecurity company has relocated to the Grand Valley and plans to ultimately open a service delivery center.

n Banking on help Alpine Bank has donated $50,000 to fund grants that promote social emotional learning in School District 51.

n Better together The Western Colorado Latino Chamber of Commerce has moved its office to CMU to help businesses and students.

n Paying dividends Mesa County businesses will receive a total of nearly $1.5 million in dividends from Pinnacol Assurance.

n Rate spike

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A spike in the jobless rate in Mesa County doesn’t change expectations for improving labor conditions.

n Spring into action

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A spring conference and legal update will help participants keep up with changing employment issues.

n Departments Almanac Business Briefs Business People Contributors News Opinion Trends

30 28 30 21-24 2-18 26-27 19-20

Center of assistance

n While it’s anything but business as usual in a pandemic, mission to help entrepreneurs goes on.

See page 2 Jon Maraschin, executive director of the Business Incubator Center in Grand Junction, leads a tour through the manufacturing space at the center, which includes the operations of the Timeless Millworks cabinetry company.

Business Times photo by Phil Castle

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March 25-aPril 14, 2021

Cyber firm relocates to Grand Valley

Trends Contributors Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac

Cloudrise executive expects local staffing to ultimately top 200 Phil Castle

The Business Times

Rob Eggebrecht sees in the Grand Valley the scenic vistas and outdoor recreational opportunities of what he considers the genuine Colorado.

Eggebrecht also sees a good location in which to develop a global cybersecurity company that ultimately could employ 200 to 300 people. “There’s tremendous opportunity here,” said Eggebrecht, co-founder and chief Rob Eggebrecht executive officer of Cloudrise.

Eggebrecht and his co-founders relocated Cloudrise from Denver to Grand Junction.

The company is located for now in the Maverick Innovation Center on the Colorado Mesa University campus, a building that also houses a cybersecurity center. Eggebrecht said he expects to maintain a presence there as he recruits CMU students as interns and employees.

But as the company grows, other facilities will be needed. Eggebrecht envisions ultimately opening a service delivery center that could employ 200 to 300 people.

Eggebrecht and his co-founders launched Cloudrise in Denver in October 2019. They brought to the venture decades of experience with data protection in working for other companies as well as operating their own firm.

The team since has raised capital investments to fund their efforts, he said.

That includes capital from the Greater Colorado Venture Fund, which invests in startups headquartered in areas of Colorado outside the Front Range.

Cloudrise offers a range of services to companies large and small, Eggebrecht said, in assessing their capability to protect data and offering them automated processes and other resources as well management services.

The threat of data theft has increased, he said, along with the use of computers and software technology. And not only from hackers and others on the outside trying to get in, but also employees, contractors and others already on the inside.

See CYBER page 16

Jon Maraschin, executive director of the Business Incubator Center, leads an impromptu tour through the manufacturing space at the center, which includes the operations of the Timeless Millworks custom cabinetry fabrication company.

Center of assistance It’s anything but business as usual in pandemic, but mission goes on

Z

oom meetings replace one-on-one coaching sessions.

Class sizes are limited. And door knobs and light switches are cleaned. A lot.

What hasn’t changed at the Business Incubator Center in the midst of a pandemic is the mission to help entrepreneurs start and grow their operations — not to mention respond to new challenges presented by COVID-19 and related restrictions.

“We’re all doing what we’ve always done. We’re just delivering it differently,” says Jon Maraschin, a former commercial banker who for nearly 10 years has served as executive director of the center in Grand Junction.

The business of helping businesses has been brisk, Maraschin says. The numbers for access to capital and coaching far exceed those from prepandemic levels.

But numbers only tell part of the story, he says.

“The story behind those numbers is very encouraging.”

The combination of funding and coaching has kept some businesses from closing their doors and positioned others to thrive in the aftermath of the pandemic, he says.

While some industry sectors have been hit harder than others, Maraschin says he’s optimistic overall about what he expects will be an economic expansion. “I’m super excited about the future.”

The Business Incubator Center serves as a one-stop shop of sorts in offering a range of services and programs in a single location. The Small Business Development Center located there offers free and low-cost counseling and classes. The incubator

OPERATIONS BY THE NUMBERS Here are some of the numbers from the 2020 annual report for the Business Incubator Center in Grand Junction: n 610 clients served across all programs. n 198 jobs created or retained across all programs. n 1,610 hours of business coaching. n 28 clients served in incubator program. n 30 clients served in commercial kitchen program. n $1.47 million in lending from business loan fund. n $802,916 distributed in COVID-19 funding. n 297 jobs created with Enterprise Zone tax credits. program and commercial kitchen offers low-cost space and shared services for businesses. A revolving loan fund offers access to capital to small businesses. The center also oversees a program offering tax credits for capital projects.

According to the 2020 annual report for the Business Incubator Center, a total of 610 clients were served through various programs and 198 jobs were created or retained.

The Small Business Development Center served 375 clients and offered 1,610 hours of business coaching.

The incubator program offered space and services to 28 businesses, while an average of 30 clients took advantage of the commercial kitchen program at a given time.

See CENTER page 18

STORY AND PHOTO BY PHIL CASTLE

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well-rounded perspective to new Mesa County role Phil Castle

as well as New England and Canada.

Whidden said people who work in information technology aren’t just “geeks,” Frank Whidden brings what he but offer an important perspective because considers a well-rounded perspective to his they’re familiar with nearly every aspect of new job as Mesa County administrator. operations and how work gets done. They Whidden worked also tend to think about new and potentially in information better ways of doing things in asking and technology and holds answering “what if ” questions. “They know a master’s degree in how to effect change in an organization.” computer information Whidden expects to bring that same systems. But he also approach to his duties as administrator. holds a doctoral Whidden said it’s his role to help degree in applied county commissioners make and then management and implement decisions. The commissioners decision making and Frank Whidden in turn represent the residents of the worked for more than county and express their will, he said. “We 20 years as a minister. Whidden has work for the people.” worked for large and small organizations Whidden said he also considers himself in both the private and public sectors. a liaison between the commissioners and expects president to draw on of allAlpine of his Bank county staff, and one ofannounces the prioritiesa is to ClayWhidden Tufly, regional in Mesa County, experiences in donation helping toMesa County51 make sure employees $50,000 bank the District Foundation to fund feel twovalued. roundsWhidden of commissioners make and carryemotional out decisions. saidfor he students hopes not in only to improve grants to promote social learning Mesa Countymorale, Valuing staff51. and(Business making the county steps that will make Mesa School District Times photobut byalso Phil take Castle) an employer of choice is among the County an organization for which people priorities, Whidden said. So is planning want to work. that results in sustainable funding and Meanwhile, Whidden expects the balanced budgets on a long-term basis. county to continue policies and initiatives Meanwhile, Mesa County will that support local business and economic continue to pursue efforts that promote a development. There are additional steps friendly business environment and that can be taken to make it easier for local economic development, Whidden said. businesses to sell products and services to Whidden officially began working as the county, he added.

Phil Castle rest of their lives and ultimately promote county administrator at Times the beginning of Mesa County will keep working with The Business the well-being of the community, he said. the year. He succeeds Tom Fisher, who was other government entities, organizations Angela Christensen, executive hired as county manager in Summit and institutions on fostering an environment Applications will be accepted through director of the School District 51 County, Utah. that supports existing businesses and April 22 for the first of two rounds of grants Foundation, said small and large grants Whidden joined Mesa County in attracts new businesses, he said. to promote social emotional learning in will be offered in four categories to fund August 2011 as information technology Whidden said there could be a Mesa County School District 51. training for teachers and staff, curriculum director. In April 2014, he became deputy opportunities to encourage the additional Alpine Bank donated $50,000 to the and instructional resources, items for county administrator for resource development of businesses that provide School District 51 Foundation to fund creating supportive classrooms and management in a staffing reorganization services to the agricultural industry as well the grants. The foundation will in turn opportunities for students. that eliminated four director positions. as promote Mesa County as a distribution award grants in various sizes to teachers, The donation will fund two, $25,000 Before joining Mesa County, center for the region. counselors and principals. rounds of grants. Applications for the first Whidden worked for a company providing The important thing is to consider “We’re hopeful this is a way to round will be accepted through April 22. information technology services to issues from a well-rounded perspective, really help our students,” said Clay Tufly, The second round is scheduled to begin colleges and universities. In that role, he Whidden said. “We won’t be myopic as we regional president of Alpine Bank in Mesa Sept. 1 with an application deadline of managed IT systems and services for look at things.”

County.

Oct. 15. institutions in Alabama, Arizona, Illinois ✦ Tufly was among the bank, foundation The foundation raises funds to and school district officials who announced increase student access to technology and the effort during a news conference at R-5 other resources as well as professional High School in Grand Junction. learning for teachers.

Social emotional learning is a “We couldn’t be more thrilled,” process through which people — Christensen said. “It is going to make a children and adults alike — acquire and huge difference.” apply knowledge, attitudes and skills to Diana Sirko, superintendent of understand and manage their emotions, set Mesa County School District 51, said the and achieve goals, develop relationships donation constitutes the latest example of and make decisions. a tradition of philanthropy and support for Social emotional learning can the communities Alpine Bank serves. “It’s help students not only perform better a game changer.” academically, but also cope with stress.

Raul De Villegas-Decker, a Tufly said addressing mental health psychologist and consultant who serves issues is important, especially at a time as president of the School District 51 when students face even more stress Foundation Board of Directors, agreed. related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We want to thank you, absolutely thank Promoting the emotional well-being you.” of students can make a difference for the F The Business Times

$50,000 bank donation to fund grants promoting social emotional learning

The Business Times

March 25-april 14, 2021

Latino chamber opens office on CMU campus Move into Maverick Innovation Center seen as a way to help entrepreneurs and students The Western Colorado Latino Chamber of Commerce has relocated its office to the Colorado Mesa State University campus in Grand Junction in a collaborative effort intended to help entrepreneurs and students.

“Statistically, Latinx students and or business owners are more likely to have first-generation status than the rest of the population.

This is where we see a special role for the Latino chamber to serve students while located at CMU,” said Jorge Pantoja, president of the Western Colorado Latino Chamber of Commerce.

Tom Benton, director of the Maverick Innovation Center, agreed.

“Mesa County has a large Latinx population, and CMU serves a large cohort of Latinx students. This means we can be a bridge between the Latino business community and the CMU Latinx student community to strengthen opportunities for both.”

The chamber relocated its office into the Maverick Innovation Center at 730 Mesa Ave. The building offers shared workspaces for students, faculty and community to develop ideas for products, services and the businesses to provide them. The building also houses a cybersecurity center as well as the Factory coworking operation.

Chamber staff plans to establish internship and job placement services as well as mentoring and cultural heritage education efforts.

Sonia Gutierrez, a member of the Latino chamber board who helped coordinate the relocation of the office to CMU, said the move builds on chamber efforts to help Latinx business owners succeed.

“We exist as an organization because for many Latinx business owners, they may be first- or second-generation owners or operators, and we want to provide them networking, cultural connection opportunities and business conditions that make commerce more accessible,” Gutierrez said. “This is especially important when they may be competing with those who may have been in business for multiple generations.”

CMU President Tim Foster said the collaboration also reflects effort to better serve traditionally underserved student populations.

“In 2020, CMU had the largest single donor donation in the history of the university because of our commitment to serving first-generation and minority student populations,” Foster said. “We are not stopping now, and these kinds of innovative partnerships show that the more resources we acquire, the more investment we make in our services.

These investments provide meaningful returns to the benefits of these amazing and talented young people.”

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Jorge Pantoja

Tom Benton

Sonia Gutierrez

Tim Foster

FOR YOUR INFORMATION For more information about the Western Colorado Latino Chamber of Commerce, call 852-9605 or visit www.wclatinochamber.org.

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Mesa County businesses to get $1.5 million in dividends Businesses based in Mesa County will receive a total of nearly $1.5 million in the latest distribution of dividends from Pinnacol Assurance.

The workers’ compensation insurer will distribute $50 million in general dividend checks, the sixth consecutive year for dividends.

“During this year when Colorado businesses and their employees are Phil Kalin facing significant financial hardships, we’re glad to be in a position to return some money to policyholders,” said Phil Kalin, president and chief executive officer of Pinnacol Assurance.

About 95 percent of Pinnacol policyholders are eligible to receive dividends — nearly 53,000 employers

across Colorado. Dividend checks, scheduled to go into the mail beginning March 23, will average $949 statewide.

Mesa County based businesses will receive a total of $1,466,180 — the 10th largest total by county. Checks will average $829.

Garfield County based businesses will receive a total of more than $1 million and an average of $996. Delta County based businesses will receive a total of nearly $323,000 and an average of $700. Montrose County businesses will receive a total of almost $524,000 and an average of $785.

Dividends are based on the financial performance of Pinnacol as well as customers’ commitment to safety with timely claims reporting and investments in safety education, equipment and technology.

Counting the latest distribution, Pinnacol has returned

$320 million to Colorado businesses since 2016 — about 9 percent of premiums. Pinnacol returned $70 million in 2020 and what was at the time a lockdown near the onset of the coronavirus pandemic.

Kalin said the company also has reduced customer rates by more than 32 percent since 2016.

Pinnacol Assurance has helped businesses adapt to pandemic-related hazards while also helping them remain focused on such common workplace hazards as slips, falls and unsafe lifting practices, he said.

“A strong safety culture and proactive management of employees’ safety and well-being can literally put money back in a business’ pocket,” he said. “This is not a niceto-have or something to be focused on during boom times exclusively.”

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funds News, views Grant and advice added staff you can use for land trust

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The Colorado West Land Trust based in Grand Junction will add staff to its expanding Western Colorado operations thanks to a nearly $134,000 grant.

The Great Outdoors Colorado board awarded a $133,700 grant to the land trust as part of a program to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ron Bleiberg, the executive director of the land trust, said the West Slope has seen an increase in population as people have relocated to the region in the midst of the pandemic. That in turn has increased Rob Bleiberg development pressure he hopes to mitigate through conservation efforts.

“This support from GOCO will enable the land trust to better serve communities across the West Slope as they experience unprecedented use of public lands, financial distress and the unanticipated pandemic-fueled real estate boom,” Bleiberg said. “We are grateful for this investment that will benefit our region today and for generations to come.”

The GOGO Resilient Communities Program funds efforts to respond to the pandemic in terms of land protection, outdoor recreation and stewardship.

A merger expanded CWLT operations to include not only Mesa County, but also Delta, Gunnison, Montrose, Ouray and San Miguel counties.

A new regional conservationist position will be filled to pursue conversation opportunities in Delta, Montrose and Ouray counties. The conservationist also will develop a stewardship plan to address climate resiliency, ecological health and sustainability as well as gather data for a water strategy.

The land trust also expects to hire a new regional director in the second half of 2021. The regional director will work out of Montrose to advance conservation projects and partnerships in Delta, Gunnison, Montrose, Ouray and San Miguel counties.

Over the past 40 years, the land trust has conserved a total of 125,000 acres of agricultural lands, open spaces and wildlife habitat in Mesa County and five other West Slope counties.

Great Outdoors Colorado uses a portion of proceeds from the Colorado Lottery to preserve and enhance parks, wildlife areas and open spaces. Since 1992, GOCO has funded a total of more than 5,300 projects in all 64 counties of Colorado.

To date, GOCO has invested nearly $46 million in projects in Mesa County and conserved 18,000 acres. GOGO funding has supported Las Colonias Park, the Lunch Loops trail system and Palisade Plunge, among other projects.

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News, views Senate and advice confirms you can use SBA chief

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A woman who’s worked in the public and private sector to help small businesses has returned to the U.S. Small Business Administration as the new administrator.

The U.S. Senate confirmed Isabella Casillas Guzman’s nomination to the post.

“I am excited to return to the SBA and serve as the voice of small business in the Biden-Harris Isabella Guzman administration. I am committed to championing the agency’s mission and helping equitably build back the economy,” Guzman said.

“I also look forward to working with the dedicated team of SBA professionals to ensure that the SBA creates and sustains inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystems for all of our diverse small businesses across the nation to thrive,” she said.

U.S. Sen. Ben Cardin, a Democrat from Maryland who serves as chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business & Entrepreneurship, hailed the confirmation.

“SBA must continue to be a lifeline for small businesses in the months ahead, and I am confident that Isabel Guzman is the best person to lead the agency out of the pandemic and through the economic recovery to follow.”

Guzman will lead a workforce of more than 9,000 SBA employees and administer programs involving everything from loans to counseling to contracting. She also will oversee efforts to provide pandemic relief to small businesses through the Paycheck Protection Program, Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program and Shuttered Venue Operators Grant Program as well as additional support enacted in the American Rescue Plan.

Guzman served in the SBA during the Obama administration as a senior advisor and deputy chief of staff. Most recently, she served as director of California’s Office of the Small Business Advocate, a network of 4 million small businesses.

Before her public service career, Guzman was an entrepreneur and advisor to accelerate technology commercialization and help small business contractors work in the federal marketplace.

“Growing up in an entrepreneurial family, I learned firsthand the ins and outs of managing a business from my father and gained an appreciation for the challenges small business owners face every day,” she said. “Throughout my public and private sector career, I have been dedicated to helping small businesses grow and succeed.

Now more than ever, our impacted small businesses need our support, and the SBA stands ready to help them reopen and thrive.”

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News, views Bidding and advice under way you can use for tasteful

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fund-raiser

Bidding will remain open through midnight March 31 for table dinners planned as part of the annual Edesia fund-raiser.

Chef’s table dinners are scheduled for 6 p.m. April 11, 18 and 25 at the Wine Country Inn, 777 Grande River Drive in Palisade.

The dinners will be limited to up to 10 guests in each of two club rooms in the Vitner’s House. People can place bids in an online auction to participate. Bidding opens at $1,500 per group.

For bidding or more information, visit https://edesiapalisade.com/.

Edesia — an event showcasing food, wine and spirits — raises funds for MarillacHealth, which provides a range of health care services to uninsured and under-insured Mesa County residents.

Since its inception a decade ago, Edesia has raised $212,000 — $38,000 when the last event was conducted in 2019.

“We are grateful for all the work Wine Country Inn is doing to host Edesia again in a safe manner and also offer a creative night out for an exclusive gourmet event,” said Kay Ramachandran, chief executive officer of the MarillacHealth.

FCI Constructors will present Edesia along with Alpine Bank, SCL Health St. Mary’s and Peach Street Distillers.

This year, Edesia also will include a celebration of Hollywood.

Each dinner will feature different fare as well as Hollywood-themed activities.

On April 11, Bridget Zlab, food and beverage director and chef at the Wine Country Inn, will recreate dishes from popular Hollywood bistros.

The event also will include a screening of “Long Live the King,” a documentary about “King Kong;” a remote question and answer session with filmmakers Frank Dietz and Tricia Geiger; and live remote interview with Victoria Riskin, daughter of “King Kong” star Fay Wray.

On April 18, Chad Griffith, executive chef of the Palisade Café and Wine Bar, will prepare cuisine paired with local wines.

The event will include a screening of “Roman Holiday,” a movie featuring the Oscar-winning work of screenwriter Dalton Trumbo, who was from Grand Junction.

On April 25, Wayne Smith, a culinary arts instructor at Western Colorado Community College, will recreate fare from the first Academy Awards dinner.

The event will include a screening of the 92nd Academy Awards presentations.

An online merchandise auction will include Hollywood star caricatures, movies and posters as well as dinners, getaways and goodie baskets. Bidding will remain open until midnight April 30.

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Federal legislation introduced to keep BLM headquarters in Grand Junction The U.S. Bureau of Land Management would maintain its headquarters in Grand Junction under legislation proposed by a Western Colorado congresswoman.

U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert introduced the Local Opportunities, Conservation and American Lands Act. The legislation keeps the BLM headquarters in Grand Junction as well as BLM employees in western states.

“Westerners deserve a voice in the land use decisions that affect their lives daily. I am proud to introduce the LOCAL Act to ensure that our local communities have access to Lauren Boebert the decision-makers at the Bureau of Land Management headquarters,” said Boebert, a Republican whose 3rd Congressional District includes Grand Junction. “Since 99 percent of the lands that the bureau manages are west of the Mississippi, it only makes sense to have the agency located close to the communities it serves.”

Ten congressmen joined Boebert in introducing the legislation, including Ken Buck and Doug Lamborn, both Republicans from Colorado.

The Mesa and Garfield County commissions also have come out in support of the measure, as has the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce and Club 20.

The Department of Interior announced in 2019 plans to relocate the BLM headquarters to Grand Junction as well as reassign BLM staff to other locations closer to the public lands the agency manages.

Accounting for the higher costs of office space in Washington compared to other areas of the country as well as travel between western states and the capital, it was estimated the move could save $50 million to $100 million over 20 years.

In February, Boebert joined Colorado Gov. Jared Polis, U.S. Sens. Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper and local stakeholders in an event hosted by the Grand Junction Economic Partnership to discuss keeping BLM headquarters in Grand Junction.

GJEP calculated the initial economic contributions of the BLM headquarters in Grand Junction at $11 million.

The agency moved 41 jobs to Grand Junction that pay an average of $122,000 annually in wages and benefits for a total of more than $5 million. Using an economic multiplier, BLM employees support an additional 57 local jobs through their spending in the community, resulting in a total $9 million annual employment effects. The move also resulted in a $1.25 million in capital investment in renovating office space the BLM leases on Horizon Drive and a total of $2 million in additional economic effects.

Boebert, the Mesa County Commissioners and Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce invited Interior Secretary Deb Haaland to visit the BLM headquarters and Grand Junction.

Tom Pyle, president of the American Energy Alliance, praised efforts to keep BLM headquarters in Grand Junction.

“The decision by the Trump administration to move the BLM headquarters out West was wise. The West is disproportionately impacted by decisions pertaining to the management of our public lands. It only makes sense that the leadership of the BLM be a part of that community.”

Scott Jones with the Off-Road Business Association agreed.

“We vigorously support the LOCAL Act requiring BLM headquarters permanently remaining in Grand Junction. Placement of the headquarters in this more centralized location allows for more timely and effective transfer of information and alignment of resources.”

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March 25-aPril 14, 2021

NFIB member poll shows little support for plastics ban

Members of a small business advocacy group in Colorado oppose statewide bans on grocery bags, food containers and other plastic products.

The National Federal of Independent Business announced the results of a poll gauging the sentiments of Colorado members on the issue.

They were asked: “Do you support statewide bans on certain single-use plastics like straws, shopping bags, trays, food containers, utensils and other legal products in Colorado?”

Out of those who responded to the poll, 87.6 percent answered no, while 10.3 percent answered yes and 1.9 percent said they were undecided.

The poll follows proposed state legislation lifting the prohibition on local governments from banning certain plastic products and polystyrene.

“At a time when every single aspect of running an enterprise needs to be unfettered if we’re to ever economically recover, a plastics ban is a needless idea coming at the worst possible moment,” said Tony Gagliardi, state director of the NFIB in Colorado.

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Cyber

Continued from page 2 Eggebrecht attributed his interest in the Grand Valley in part to his love for mountain biking — which motivated him to consider whether or not he could also operate Cloudrise in the area. He said he was impressed by what he found out from the Grand Junction Economic Partnership and CMU. He said he was impressed as well by students at CMU who offer skills and a work ethic, but also want to remain in the Grand Valley because of the quality of life the area offers.

With a location in the Maverick Innovation Center, Cloudrise can help CMU in gearing its curriculum to prepare students for work while also recruiting students for internships and employment, he said.

At the same time, the software and services Cloudrise has developed to protect data has attracted customers across the globe.

Eggebrecht said he prefers the term partnerships because Cloudrise develops relationships with companies.

Those relationships usually start with assessments in which Cloudrise evaluates the technology, processes and people companies use to protect data. Assessments identify not only what’s in place, he said, but also what’s desired.

Technology is implemented or tuned to better protect data and decrease risk, he said.

Cloudrise specializes in automating labor-intensive or repetitive processes as well as routing information to the people who need it, he said.

In addition, Cloudrise offers services to manage data protection for customers.

It’s important to not only detect and stop outside efforts to steal data, but also deal with inside threats.

There’s a lot at stake in protecting financial and medical records as well as intellectual property, he said. But companies also must protect their reputations and the value of their brands in the marketplace.

Robin Brown, executive director of the Grand Junction Economic Partnership, welcomed Cloudrise to the Grand Valley.

“The founding team at Cloudrise has an esteemed reputation in major tech hubs like Silicon Valley and Boston. Their choice to relocate to Grand Junction will help attract more cutting-edge businesses, encourage skilled talent to move here and grow our reputation as a rising tech hub.”

Eggebrecht said he’s happy to be here not only for the scenery and outdoor recreation, but also the opportunity. “We’ll build a global company from here,” he said.

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FOR YOUR INFORMATION For more information about Cloudrise, visit the website at https://cloudrise.com.

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Continued from page 2 The Business Loan Fund of Mesa County approved 18 small business loans and awarded a total of $1.47 million. That leveraged an additional $2.46 million in lending and created or retained 86 jobs.

Another 297 jobs were created as a result of Enterprise Zone tax credits under a program administered at the Business Incubator Center.

In addition, the Business Loan Fund administered eight different funds offering assistance to businesses affected by the pandemic. A total of $802,916 was disbursed to 112 businesses.

Applications will be accepted through 5 p.m. April 16 for a grant fund for nonprofit businesses.

Businesses that received funding have worked with coaches at the Business Incubator Center to develop plans to survive the pandemic and related restrictions, Maraschin says. “That’s a really powerful thing.”

The Small Business Development Center at the Business Incubator Center also offered 19 webinars and 325 hours of consulting through a business recovery initiative.

Coaches help in asking the right questions and offering what can be brutally honest assessments, he says.

Many businesses faced difficulties because they didn’t have enough cash reserves to pay bills, he says. Federal, state and local pandemic relief programs helped

March 25-aPril 14, 2021 FOR YOUR INFORMATION The Business Incubator Center is located at 2591 Legacy Way in Grand Junction. For more information about services and programs offered there, call 243-5242 or visit the website at https://gjincubator.org. businesses get through the crisis and stay in operation.

Even as some businesses struggled, other businesses fared better because they cut costs, Maraschin says. But some of that came at the expense of employees who lost jobs.

Like the entrepreneurs they’ve helped, the staff at the Business Incubator Center has learned in the pandemic to remain nimble, consider new ways of doing things and take advantage of technology, he says.

While the pandemic will leave financial and psychological scares, Maraschin says he remains optimistic. As more people are vaccinated and restrictions ease, businesses will enjoy increased sales from pent-up demand. “We’re going to see an economic expansion for a while.”

If anything, businesses could face new challenges in what could be a work force shortage, he says.

Regardless of what happens, Maraschin says one thing won’t change.

And that’s the mission at the Business Incubator Center to help entrepreneurs.

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SBDC network helps businesses A network of Small Business Development Centers across Colorado helped companies start and grow operations even in the midst of a pandemic.

According to the Colorado Small Business Development Center Network, 176 businesses attributed their starts in 2020 to help they received from a center.

The network helped businesses create 1,532 new jobs, retain an additional 2,722 jobs and increase sales a total of more than $95.5 million.

The network operates 15 full-time centers, including the facility at the Business Incubator Center in Grand Junction.

Joey Jenkins, director of the Colorado

SBDC Network, said small businesses collectively constitute big business in the state.

“Last year, we pivoted our resources to combat the economic impact of COVID-19. Our singular focus was to help both existing and new businesses survive, pivot and thrive,” Jenkins said.

The work continues, Jenkins said.

“In 2021, as the vaccine rolls out and the economy starts to recovery, we are committed to helping each of these Colorado businesses succeed by providing the support, resources, education and the overall economic climate they need.”

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News Trends Contributors Jobless rate spikes Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac The Business Times

March 25-april 14, 2021

page 19

INDICATORS AT A GLANCE

n Business filings

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

n Confidence

s Consumer Confidence Index 91.3 in February, up 2.4. n Leeds Business Confidence Index for Colorado, 47.9 for the first quarter, unchanged. s National Federation of Independent Business Small Business Optimism Index 95.8 for February, up 0.8.

n Foreclosures

t Foreclosure filings in Mesa County, 2 in February, down from 19 in February 2020. t Foreclosure sales in Mesa County, 5 in February, down from 6 in February 2020.

n Indexes

s Conference Board Employment Trends Index, 101.01 for February, up 0.32. s Conference Board Leading Economic Index 110.5 for February, up 0.2%. s Institute for Supply Management Purchasing Managers Index for manufacturing, 60.8% for February, up 2.1%.

n Lodging

t Lodging tax collections in Grand Junction, $59,997 for February, down 13.6% from February 2020.

n Real estate

s Real estate transactions in Mesa County, 384 in February, up 18.2% from February 2020. s Dollar volume of real estate transactions in Mesa County, $122 million in February, up 11.9% from February 2020.

n Sales

s Sales and use tax collections in Grand Junction, $4.6 million for February, up 10.9% from February 2020. s Sales and use tax collections in Mesa County, $3.17 million for February, up 12.5% from February 2020.

n Unemployment s Mesa County — 7.9% for January, up 0.7. t Colorado — 6.6% for January, down 0.3. t United States — 6.2% for February, down 0.1.

Outlook for Mesa County labor market remains encouraging, though Phil Castle

1,261 openings. Job orders for January 2020 involved 1,953 orders.

New claims for unemployment Jan. Dec. A spike in the monthly unemployment benefits increased more than four-fold, s Delta County 6.9 6.3 rate in Mesa County doesn’t change Kirnberger said — from 225 in January s Garfield County 6.0 5.7 expectations for improving labor conditions 2020 to 975 in January 2021. s Mesa County 7.9 7.2 in 2021.

While more will be known when s Montrose County 6.6 6.2 “I think things February labor estimates are released on s Rio Blanco County 6.9 5.8 are going in the right March 26, Kirnberger said conditions direction,” said Celina have improved since the beginning of the Kirnberger, employment services supervisor year with seasonal hiring in construction, landscaping and the at the Mesa County Workforce Center in hospitality sector. New businesses will bring even more jobs, she Grand Junction. said.

Labor demand has increased along with The Mesa County Workforce Center and Colorado Mesa seasonal hiring, Kirnberger said. The opening University will join to help make the connections between of new businesses also bodes well. “That’s a employers and prospective employees in a career and job fair scheduled for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 8 at the Mesa Mall in Grand Celina Kirnberger really good sign.”

According to Colorado Department of Junction. Kirnberger said there’s room for more employers to Labor and Employment estimates, the seasonally unadjusted participate. unemployment rate in Mesa County climbed to 7.9 percent in Kirnberger said she expects labor conditions to continue January, up seven-tenths of a point from a revised 7.2 percent in to improve through 2021 as more people receive COVID-19 December. vaccinations and pandemic restrictions ease. The effects of the The latest rate was among the highest among Colorado counties. pandemic likely will linger, but employers have discovered new Huerfano County posted the highest rate of 9.8 percent, followed ways to do business, she said.

by Pueblo County at 9.3 percent and Gilpin County at 8.1 percent.

Seasonally unadjusted unemployment rates also increased in Las Animas County also posted a rate of 7.9 percent.

January in neighboring West Slope counties: 1.1 points to 6.9 percent The jobless rate historically spikes in Mesa County in January in Rio Blanco County, six-tenths of a point to 6.9 percent in Delta because of layoffs after the holidays and winter weather that County, four-tenths of a point to 6.6 percent in Montrose County and slows construction and other outdoor work. The spike was higher three-tenths of a point to 6 percent in Garfield County. this year than last, when the jobless rate before the onset of the The statewide seasonally adjusted jobless rate fell-three COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions stood at 4.1 percent. tenths of a point to 6.6 percent in January as nonfarm payrolls For January 2021, Mesa County payrolls decreased 747 to increased 32,000 between December and January.

70,285. The number of people counted among those unsuccessfully Over the past year, the statewide jobless rate has jumped looking for work increased 495 to 5,996. The labor force, which nearly four points. The annual unemployment rate in Colorado hit includes the employed and unemployed, edged down 252 to 76,281. 7.3 percent in 2020, with monthly rates ranging from 2.7 percent Compared to a year ago, payrolls dropped 2,426 even as the in January to 12.1 percent in April. ranks of the unemployed increased 2,896. The labor force grew Payrolls decreased 160,800 over the past year, more than half 450. of that in the leisure and hospitality sector. The education and Labor demand as measured the number of job orders posted health services sector and other services category also shed jobs. at the Mesa County Workforce Center increased in January with The average workweek for employees on private, nonfarm 717 orders, Kirnberger said. That’s more than double the 347 payrolls lengthened over the past year six-tenths of an hour to 33.6 orders posted the same month last year. hours. Average hourly earnings rose 32 cents to $31.05.

However, job orders for January 2021 involved a total of F The Business Times

AREA JOBLESS RATES

Grand Junction sales tax collections climb

A measure of sales activity in Grand Junction continues to increase.

The city reported collecting more than $3.7 million in sales taxes in February. That’s an increase of nearly $423,000 and 12.8 percent over the same month last year. The city also received nearly $800,000 as its share of county sales tax collections, a 6.3 percent year-over-year increase.

City use tax collections, a smaller and more volatile source of revenue based on activity in the construction and energy sectors, fell 25.4 percent to $57,482.

February collections reflect January sales.

Through the first two months of 2a021, city sales and use tax collections totaled more than $10.6 million. That’s an increase of almost $490,000 and 4.8 percent over the same span in 2020. Sales tax collections increased 6.1 percent, while use tax collections dropped 42.8 percent.

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

GRAND JUNCTION TAX COLLECTIONS

s Sales tax s Share county sales tax t Use tax t Lodging tax

Feb. 2021 $3,732,000 $793,712 $57,482 $59,997

Feb. 2020 $3,309,008 $746,883 $77,024 $69,467

Lodging tax collections, a measure of hotel and motel stays in Grand Junction, declined in February on a year-over-year basis.

The city collected $59,997 in lodging taxes. That was a decrease of $9,470 and 13.6 percent over the same month last year.

Through the first two months of 2021, the city collected $132,040 in lodging taxes. That was a decline of $33,408 and 20.2 percent from the same span in 2020.

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The Business Times

March 25-aPril 14, 2021

Leading index signals growth through 2021

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

The Conference Board reported its Leading Economic Index (LEI) advanced two-tenths of a percent to 110.5 in February. A separate measure of current conditions decreased, while a measure of past performance increased.

“The acceleration of the vaccination campaign and a new round of large fiscal supports are not yet fully reflected in the LEI,” said Ataman Ozyildirim, the senior director of economic at the Ataman Ozyildirim research Conference Board.

“With those developments, the Conference Board now expects the pace of growth to improve even further this year, with the U.S. economy expanding by 5.5 percent in 2021.”

The Leading Economic Index rose 3.8 percent over the past six months, nearly reversing a 4.8 percent decline over the six months before that. Moreover, strengths among the indicators in the index remain widespread.

Gross domestic product, the broad measure of goods and services produced in the country, expanded at an annual rate of 4.1 percent in the fourth quarter of 2020 after jumping 33.4 percent in the third quarter.

For February, six of 10 indicators of the Leading Economic Index advanced, including interest rate spread, leading credit and new orders indexes, new orders for consumer goods and stock prices. A decrease in average weekly initial claims for unemployment benefits also bolstered the index. Average weekly manufacturing hours, building permits, consumer expectations and new orders for capital goods retreated.

The Coincident Economic Index, a measure of current conditions, slipped a tenth of a percent to 103. The index rose 1.2 percent over the past six months.

For February, three of four indicators of the index advanced: nonfarm payrolls, personal income and sales. Industrial production declined.

The Lagging Economic Index, a measure of past performance, increased two-tenths of a percent to 104.5. The index decreased 1.7 percent over the past three months.

For February, four of seven components of the index advanced, including consumer credit, the cost of labor and services and commercial and industrial financing. An increase in the average duration of unemployment pulled down the index. The average prime rate charged by banks and inventories held steady.

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Trends Contributors Opinion Spring into action Business Briefs Business People Almanac

March 25-april 14, 2021

The Business Times

page 21

COMING ATTRACTIONS

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

A free business valuation workshop is set for 9 to 10:30 a.m. March 31 at the center, 2591 Legacy Way. Participants will learn about the roles of market analysis and business evaluation in developing a realistic business worth assessment.

The next session of a business startup webinar is set for 1 to 2:30 p.m. April 6 and 7.

The next session of a business startup workshop is set for 1 to 3:30 p.m. April 28.

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

A bookkeeping boot camp is set for 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 4.

Participants will learn how to set up and track accounting records and gain better control of their business by learning how balance sheets, income statements and cash flow projections are prepared and what they indicate about operations. Admission is $75, which includes lunch.

For more information about upcoming events, services and programs offered at the center, call 243-5242 or visit the website at www.gjincubator.org. n The Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business networking group has scheduled a conference offering information about wellness, marketing and entrepreneurship.

The Conference in the Country is set for 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 22 at the Absolute Prestige Ranch at 1351 Q Road in Loma.

The conference will include presentations and panel discussions on mental and physical wellness, marketing, entrepreneurship and creativity. Admission is $35 for chamber and Women in Business members, $40 for others.

For tickets or more information, log on to the website at https://fruitachamber.org.

Conference to offer update on changing employment laws

Human resource professionals seek the best ways to help organizations and employees succeed. To navigate The coming year will bring these paths, they must keep up with ever-changing changes to unemployment employment laws, policies and best practices.

The past 15 months have been insurance, questions about memorable on many fronts, but administering vaccines in the especially for employers coping with workplace and — really — who new requirements for sick leave and posting job openings as well as new knows what else? wage and hour rules. That’s in addition to the challenges presented by the large, small or somewhere in between.

COVID-19 pandemic. n Unemployment insurance changes. The COVID-19 The coming year will bring pandemic profoundly changed unemployment insurance changes to unemployment insurance, benefits in 2020 and will continue to present challenges questions about administering in 2021. Some of the topics that will be covered at the Michael vaccines in the workplace and — conference include expanded eligibility, fraudulent claims Santo really — who knows what else? and expectations for the coming year.

The Western Colorado Human n Wage and hour developments. The Colorado Resource Association will join with attorneys from the Overtime and Minimum Pay Standards (COMPS) Order Bechtel, Santo & Severn law firm in Grand Junction to No. 37 made several meaningful changes for businesses of present a spring conference and legal update to help HR all sizes. New standards define exempt employees, set new professionals, business owners and managers and others expectations for travel expenses and a higher minimum navigate the changing environment. wage threshold and affect breaks and meals policies.

Conference topics will include: Employers need to know about the changes to operate n Legislative and case law update. The conference lawfully as well as smoothly. will cover changes in employment n Drugs and the workplace. law HR professionals and others This forward-looking presentation FOR YOUR INFORMATION need to know as well as what they will focus on changes in the need to look out for in the near legality of recreational drugs and The Western Colorado Human future. the effects on the workplace.

Resource Association and n Implementing legislative Bechtel, Santo & Severn law changes. Now that HR professionals Michael Santo is co-founder firm have scheduled a spring know about the changes, what should and managing attorney of the conference for 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. their organizations do about them?

Bechtel, Santo & Severn law firm April 21 at the Colorado Mesa Attorneys from Bechtel, Santo & in Grand Junction. His practice University Center ballroom Severn will offer insights and tips focuses on defending companies in in Grand Junction. A virtual as well as policies and practices to employment law litigation. Santo presentation of the event also is ensure organizations prepare for and is also a member of the Western planned. Registration is $299 comply with changes. The Colorado Colorado Human Resource for WCHRA members and Healthy Families and Workplace Association. For more information $349 for others. Students and Act and Equal Pay for Equal Work about Bechtel, Santo & Severn, special guests pay $99. Prices Act enacted last year created new log on to www.bechtelsanto.com. increase April 1. To register or challenges. The conference will For more information about the obtain more information, visit the help participants address changes WCHRA, visit www.wchra.org. website at www.wchra.org. whether their organizations are F

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The Business Times

March 25-aPril 14, 2021

Is your business exceptional in your customers’ minds?

Exceptional companies stand out in a positive way in the hearts and minds of their customers. They accomplish this feat by delivering high-quality customer service on a consistent basis.

Consumers have a variety of businesses from which to choose when they’re in the market for a certain product or service. They’re increasingly discerning with their hard-earned money when looking to satisfy their individual wants and needs. It’s important to consistently deliver high-quality products and services to stand out.

Take a moment and consider Marcus your recent experiences in spending Straub financial resources. Of your last 10 experiences, how many companies stood out as exceptional? How many were mediocre?

And how many of those experiences were downright poor? Most likely, the majority of your experiences were mediocre, a few poor and even fewer exceptional.

Now, reflect on the defining qualities that created each of these experiences. Did you feel welcome and appreciated? Were you treated with dignity and respect?

Did the product or service you purchased exceed your wants and needs? Will you buy from this company again?

Would you, without hesitation, refer your family and friends to these companies? Did they provide good value?

Are you happy you did business with these establishments?

In your honest answers to these and other questions you ask of yourself lies your secret to greater professional success. By understanding what you value most in your experiences and duplicating them for your customers, your company will stand out. In turn, you’ll benefit from

The critical ingredients of a consistently exceptional experience are exceptional people, exceptional products and exceptional services.

increased referrals and become more successful.

Your business can consistently deliver high-quality products and services for years. But it only takes one paltry experience for a regular customer to stop doing business with you and then share that experience with countless others. It costs next to nothing to earn high- quality referrals from your customers, but it’s costly to have consumers think poorly of you and your business.

Consistency in several key areas is vital to operating and building a standout business. It’s your commitment to excellence and consistency that enables you to maintain that position over time. n Exceptional customer service: Creating exceptional customer service experiences on a consistent basis begins with the owners. When those who’ve brought the company into existence are honest and endeavor to give their customers more reasons to say “yes” and fewer reasons to say “no,” the likelihood of operating an extraordinary company increases. n A caring team: When a company hires managers and team members who care, they create a team of people who hold themselves personally accountable to delivering exceptional customer experiences. In contrast, when team members don’t work with the intention of being their best and caring for customers — both in their attitudes and behaviors — customers sense that, the business reputation is tarnished and revenues are lost. n Training and skill development: If you want to help

your team members be their best on a consistent basis, it’s imperative to offer ongoing training and skill development in relationship-building, communication, customer service, leadership, listening and sales. Effective training will position your company to operate at the highest standards and meet and even exceed the desires of your growing clientele. By instilling and supporting a positive mindset and helping them to develop the necessary skills, your caring team members will be positioned to deliver an exceptional experience every time they connect with your valuable customers. n Making it right: Operating a standout company isn’t about being perfect. It is, however, about the pursuit of excellence and giving your absolute best day in and day out. When you or your team drop the ball with a customer, your integrity must step in — no matter what — and make it right for the patron who makes your business possible.

It’s the quality of each customer experience that matters most. The critical ingredients of a consistently exceptional experience are exceptional people, exceptional products and exceptional services. Get these right on a consistent basis and your business will always stand out as one of the greats in the hearts and minds of your customers.

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

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March 25-april 14, 2021

The Business Times

Insure for overhead and interruptions What happens to your business and employees if you become disabled or something interrupts operations? Hopefully, you have group or individual disability income insurance to replace your income. But what about ongoing business expenses? That’s where business overhead and business interruption insurance come in.

Business overhead insurance pays some or most of the following: n Mortgage interest (but probably not principal or insurance portions). n Lease payments, including rent and payments on business automobiles, furniture and hardware. n Services, including maintenance and repair. n Employee wages (but maybe not contractor payments).

Janet n Utilities (those essential to running the Arrowood business, so possibly not cable or satellite television, for example). n Dues and fees for professional memberships, continuing education and license renewals. n Business-related property taxes. n Fees paid to providers of professional services. n Business insurance premiums (this is important since you want to keep your employees’ medical insurance payments going and your business owner liability, property, casualty, malpractice, disability and other insurance in force).

Business overhead insurance integrates with disability income insurance. If you don’t have personal or group disability income insurance, business overhead insurance might not be very useful.

Why? Unless you want your employees to keep the business going for a few months or years and then close down or take over, you must replace your income when you’re disabled. It’s the business owner’s disability that triggers business overhead insurance benefits.

The salaries of owners and officers are almost never covered

by business overhead insurance. That’s what individual or group disability income insurance is for. While the business overhead insurance policy might cover disability income insurance premiums paid by the business, if probably won’t pay your personal policy if you or someone else owns and pays for the policy.

These policies almost always have a waiting — or elimination — period before benefits start, and benefits are normally paid in arrears. You need to figure a 14- to 90-day waiting period for benefits and 30-day lag for payments made in arrears.

Business interruption (or income) insurance provides benefits when a physical or logistical event causes a reduction or elimination in your income stream. Business interruption or income insurance can help replace lost income if you’re temporarily closed after a covered loss, such as property damage.

What sort of losses are covered? Consider the situation in which an out-of-control van slams into your plate glass window, damaging contents inside your office, store or restaurant. While your property insurance normally covers physical damage, it does not cover the loss of income resulting from having to close for repairs or restoration.

Another example is loss of income due to the actions of a civil or government entity. If your street is being replaced and traffic is routed away from your business, you might not be able to open or could experience a significant drop in income. Only a business interruption or income insurance policy might replace some or all of your lost income.

Disclaimer: The features, coverages, exclusions and benefits of insurance policies vary greatly. Consult a licensed property and casualty insurance professional who specializes in the business insurance market before purchasing business insurance.

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

For more information, visit www.TheWriteSourceInc.com.

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The Business Times

March 25-aPril 14, 2021

It’s time to row, row your way to good health What if you could find a piece of exercise equipment 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?

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.

The No. 1 reason why more people don’t hop on rowing machines is simple: They don’t know how to use Paula them. Almost anyone can figure out Reece how to walk on the belt of 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 highintensity exercise followed by short periods of slowerpaced 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 a north location at 2768 Compass Drive. For more information, call 242-8746 or visit the website located at www.crossroadsfitness.com.

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Clock ticking faster on risks of increasing national debt While I normally write about commercial real estate, I want to draw attention this month to another topic — the climbing national debt.

Rising debt should ring an alarm for everyone, but politicians from both parties and most people don’t seem concerned. Perhaps it’s just me.

The United States national debt tops $28 trillion and increases by the second. Visit the website located at www.usdebtclock.org to see for yourself.

To help get a better feel for the numbers on a personal level, the U.S. Tim federal debt per citizen approaches Whitney $85,000, and the debt per taxpayer is estimated at nearly $224,000.

U.S. federal debt as a proportion of gross domestic product, the broad measure of goods and services produced in the country, has increased from around 35 percent in

Federal debt as a proportion of GDP has increased from around 35 percent in 1980 to 60 percent in 2000 and is expected to soon surpass 140 percent.

1980 to 60 percent in 2000 and is expected to soon surpass 140 percent. According to the World Bank, debt that exceeds 77 percent of GDP cuts into economic growth.

Keep in mind these numbers were reported before President Joe Biden signed into law the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan legislation. The debt numbers will soon take another big jump.

There are ways to reduce debt. The two primary ways are to raise tax rates (which no taxpayer wants) or cut government spending (which no politician wants). Alternatively, the economy could suddenly take off and operate at warp

speed for a long period of time (easier said than done) so the government could collect more in taxes dollars without raising the tax rate while at the same time capping spending, effectively reducing the debt-to-GDP ratio.

I’m skeptical that’s going to happen any time soon and expect U.S. debt to rise for the foreseeable future.

While I can’t imagine any parent or grandparent wants to leave their children and grandchildren with a massive debt load, that’s the path we’re on. Hopefully, everyone will see the light soon and let their government representatives know this overspending has to stop.

Tim Whitney is managing broker of Coldwell Banker Commercial Prime Properties, a commercial brokerage and property management firm based in Grand Junction. Whitney has been involved in the sale, lease and management of commercial real estate in Colorado for more than 35 years.

For more information, call (970) 243-7375 or visit the website at www.CBCPrimeProperties.com.

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Contributors Opinion Bold predictions for 2015 Just remember, I’m not A newofyear affords more Fruits his Business labor Briefs not-so-bold repeats tellinglike you who to vote for an enduring legacy a new opportunity Business People Almanac to meet local needs THE he BUSINESS usiness T T Times IMES

PAGE age 26 22

I interviewed Harry Talbott only a few times, but he always made an impression.

He was as knowledgeable as he was passionate about the subject matter — in his case, agriculture in the Grand Valley.

I still recall talking with Harry at a local stop of a statewide promoting the Colorado Proudstart Program, A new year almost alwaystour brings an opportunity for a fresh and in turn promotes food and other agricultural products renewed ambition towhich do things better. in thedown state.to providing customers better products In business, thatproduced usually boils worecost a red polo shirt and straw andprocess was standing and services faster and atHe lower than competitors.

Part hat of the must in a Grand to Junction Safeway next to aneed display include listening to customers determine what store they actually andof then succulent grown family farming meeting that need. After all, itpeaches does little goodontohis offer the latest andoperation greatest if in Palisade.

It was a beautiful photo opportunity, which I nobody actually wants what you’re selling. supposethat wasbelong the point.

Just like the businesses to the group, the Grand Junction Area But I thought the the timenew how it was the Chamber of Commerce invariably startsatout year withfitting a reassessment of entrepreneur responsible bringing his product to market the services and resources it provides and howfor well they match with members Phil Castle the new therechairman in personoftothe pitch not only the fruits of his labor, but needs. Jeff Franklin,was chamber board of directors, also the efforts of others.

The Talbott his operation personifies this approach in describing what he considers role forparticipated the comingin Colorado Proud from the inception of the program in 1999. year: listen to members, determine their needs and then meet those needs. It’s a the long way is forfamiliar me to make the point I knew although role This with is which Franklin as market president ofHarry Bank Talbott, of Colorado. not nearly as wellwill as Itake would liked.

The process on have a more structured approach in what the chamber of other of entrepreneurs I’ve called met over the pastto20Business. years. They carethe plansThat’s as thetrue resumption a program aptly Listening Under deeply about their ventures, but equally so for their families to and communities. program, business owners participate in in-depth interviews identify barriers to And when gone, they leave behind enduring legacies. growth andthey’re other problems they encounter.

For Talbott, list oftime his accomplishments was club. lengthy and included The Harry new year offersthe a good to join the proverbial his induction into the or American Ag Credit Agriculture HallTimes? of Fame.

As an advertiser reader, what do youColorado need from the Business The While Colorado Fruit & Vegetable Growers,gather Colorado Farm Bureau and Rocky business journals traditionally and report the relevant news to Mountain Farmers Unionisn’t all supported induction. readers, communication necessarilyhis a one-way street. That’s especially true as that appeared in dialogue the Business reporting induction offered WebThe sitesstory and e-mail make the moreTimes convenient thanhisever. someGood of thepublications highlights of his exist remarkable life. They respond to the needs of don’t in a vacuum.

He wasand a fourth-generation farmer who needed. joined with his family in developing advertisers readers. They provide what’s one of largest fruit growing and packing operations in Colorado.

Sothe what do you need?

He was also a driving force behind the of what’s now the Colorado Is there additional news coverage thatestablishment would help keep you informed about West Trustdevelopments? and efforts to preserve landwould from be development. local Land business Are thereagricultural features that interesting Over or the past 40 years, theadvice land trust conserved a totaljobs of 125,000 acres of agriculture lands, useful?

Is there thathas would make your a little easier? openIt’s spaces and important wildlife habitat Mesayou County fiveWith otherlimited West Slope equally to askinwhat don’tand need. timecounties. to That includes Talbott produce content and lands. limited space in which to publish it, would time and space be alsotowas involvedelse? in establishing the United Fruit Growers Association betterTalbott devoted something and served the Colorado Lands Project and Mesa What’son good?

What isn’t?

What’s needed?

WhatCounty isn’t? Planning Commission.

That’s addition working a highComment school science serving as a Boy Letinus know. to Send us an as e-mail. onlineteacher on the and Business Times Web Scott site atleader. www.thebusinesstimes.com. You could even write an old-fashioned letter to HarryifTalbott will Your be missed.

By Bonnie, his wife nearly 63is years. their the editor you’d like. feedback, both positive andofnegative, valuedBy and children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

By those who worked with him. will be carefully considered.

By those knew him.

Goodwho publications are the result of not only the efforts of their staffs, but also But there’s solace in the love of family and friends and shared memories of a collaborative efforts involving advertisers and readers. life well-lived.

Moreover, the legacy Harry on.

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

Phil It’s Castle is editor the Business Reach him at phil@thebusinesstimes.com a new year. of Please help us Times. to do so. or 424-5133. ✦ 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

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

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

Copyright © 2015 — AllCopyright rights reserved. © 2021 — All rights reserved.

That’s the Business It’s thatbecause time ofatyear when Times, we don’t endorse candidates. I prefer it resolutions and prognostications abound. that because if you endorse someone, My way favorite saying applied to New Year’s especially who’sthey’re a friend or morea resolutionssomeone is in saying basically than anof acquaintance, to provide bunch promises toyou’ll breaktend the first week more favorable to saidpredict candidate of January.

Andcoverage while I won’t a — evenlot, more so if they’re elected.

It’s also whole I can pretty much accurately why never see “vote for” sign in my nail ayou’ll few things thata without question yard for anythe candidate. will make news. You will see these are I’mwell, just predictable: not pretty, comfortable doingone: any ■ Prediction candidate There willendorsing be some along line, event, sort ofany weather although you might natural disaster or find an endorsement heinous occurrence of a measure herewill where someone and there. As you’ll be interviewed and say see, the endorsement the following: “I’ve is usually nonnever seena anything endorsement. like that in myBut that’s just It’s howasI roll. lifetime.” if this Craig Hall So in the of not Craig Hall person is interest a required endorsing or anything, I’ll write attendee atanyone every news about whoevent. and what I won’t endorse.most reporting While I understand Firstperspective off, I never vote for anybe candidate people’s can indeed limited who the within, answerstheir to every by, orbelieves contained ownproblem personal come from government.

Sadly, this to applies experiences, it is too much to ask doubly candidates whoperspective promise to before fix consultto some historical problems thata are the result of government. saying such thing?

Yes, this response can Let’s here. How applybe to honest some events.

Butmany whentimes it comes have you heard government is I’m going to weather and the natural disasters, pretty to fixthis immigration, education,itself. sure is simply poverty, history repeating housing a list thanand infinity?

How Same asand it has forlonger millions millions of many thoseimportant, problems the haveplanet been made it! years. of More exponentially worse because of government What didn’t were certain species.

How’s fix fix? Answer? All of them. thatafter for perspective?

In consideringtwo: the candidates for to a ■ Prediction When it comes Grand Junction City that Council, look at what crime or something occurs between problems they promise to fix.

Identifyatthe humans, the other required attendee all candidates whose mainisfocus is fixing the news reporting events the person who problems government fixing problems. says this: of “They we’re just the nicest Those automatically be given people,who andclaim in no to way did I see something alike magical, “Highlander” level knowledge this coming.”

Exactly.

Noof one does to know everything afterit vanquishing most of the time when comes to their opponent never garner aPeople vote. Sadly, neighborsshould and acquaintances. should this last malady sometimes affects be surprised at what goes on fromeven time the to good ones weneighborhoods, elect. Let’s not towns make an time in their andeven worse mistake onknow a few because people running with people they people are who they the they answers for good.believe And for thehave timesallthat shouldn’t everything believe be shockedthey — like withgovernment politicians, should repeat do.

Find the saying offenders andperson terrorists — government where’s the should do that LESS. interview says, “This doesn’t surprise vote for someone who believes me inNever the least.” government should be inSomething the business ■ Prediction three: good of in business to do things willbeing happen economically, and theprivate business should mind? government will do. takeWhat creditcomes for it. to The most Oh, let’s say landlords or theaters recent example is gas prices, whereorpeople creating jobs.I won’t Nevercredit vote for who ask me why theanyone president for thinks know businesses low gasthey prices.

Mywhich answer is simple:to bribe to entice themmakes to locate here while Government never the price of not paying go taxes for and a decade, be something down simplyonly takestocredit taken advantage of with a move out on for good news. Gas pricing is subject to day one year 11.

I realize be called a manyofglobal factors.

NowI could there are hypocrite foranswers playingtogolf on city courses. government addressing some of But didn’tstable createfor that mess. themfrankly, to keepIprices Americans, Cangovernment you say Hamilton Sundstrand? but our has none of them in How all the otheritdeals inin thethe place.about The only things has indone place

March 25-aPril 14, 2015 2021 JANUARY 15-28,

name of economic development have long run always hurt consumers.that Another gone come up short on promises, fact isawry, that unemployment reaches a certain never being on audited, all whileAnd enjoying level based the economy. whilethe the fruits of theirmight special deals. the is last government brag theHell, number low, deal madethan withlikely one of folks never it’s more thethese government did got to day ONE, alone cheating taxpayers something tolet cause that numberthe being low and citizens a decade. to thinkwhen of — and not infora good way.Come Conversely, it, don’t vote a candidate who business picksforup, it’s because thefavors peoplethe private business these previous, who need to buypartners widgetsof who were not current I’mbecause sure, pending boondoggles. buying and, widgets the economy was Don’t vote fornatural anyone(or running for contracting due to unnatural, city council who’s been decided in Grandwe government caused)only reasons, Junction few years, yet The claims to want to better buya some widgets. government preserve the to heritage some sort of value. had nothing do withasthis.

I’ve been here 20 four: years,Inown a business ■ Prediction keeping with heavily involved in thedoes, community things the government I predictand the have been fairly in thethe community, government will active manipulate numbers to but I’dthe NEVER make that claim.

It’s not make claim the economy is getting why think.ofEveryone’s are to betteryou because how hard itvalues is working different. already have folks on council help all ofWe us “working Americans.”

Now who ran onsay, preserving values and say oncethis you might “Craig, you always elected, really found outbecause what those about President Obama you values don’t were.

The You’re point here like him.” rightisinsimple: a sense.Running I don’t on preserving heritage through values seems know the man, but what I know of him and to an atmosphere “Let’s never hiscreate thinking, I don’t like of it or him one iota. discuss whatgoI really think and will do Before you off, however, I didn’t like while I’mBush tryingand to get President his elected.” bailouts, stimulus Finally, never vote for anyone and his abandoning the free market who to save thought shuttingAnd down our city, county the free market.

I don’t know him and country was the a good idea or thought special either. What government does, and the government programs foreconomy. select only thing it favor can do, is hurt the businesses were a goodoridea.

This sortsinout Unless it does nothing put criminals those who don’t believe in people. jail instead of partnering with them,Frankly, nothing the ones who closed orhelp. madeAlways speciallook government does us will programs should be removed in both the at it this way, whatever the government says public and private sector.

But what I it it is doing, whatever the name of thedo law know?

I tend to think most people is passing, or whatever the name orare goalgood of and believe in them.

For those who the bureaucracy it is presenting to thearen’t good, have the plenty ofopposite criminalto laws.

No people,we expect polar occur. needItoguess makewhat moreI’m — saying criminals or laws. is that Thisit’s brings to my point. perhaps time me to get outfinal of our own Vote for candidates promise to work perspective.

There’s who plenty of history for smaller government, transparency books and historical research out there to and freedom.

While that transparency a begin to understand all of thisishas good thing,before. it’s a bad create more happened Andthing it willtoagain, of it via larger government.

But it sure whether the topic is people or government. campaigns good.

The best recommendation is to find answers of who someI think booksyou’ll or tryfind thatthe whole Google not to vote for areadily available, as on I have. thing.

There’s lot of information the a mention referred GreatLastly, Depression.

Theon truth is it wasn’t measures.

Never vote for even a good one until the government government to got create its own criminal enterprise or limit involved.

There’s also plenty of research competition in any arena that should be on the medieval warm period when the an openwas market giving than favors to the planet muchbywarmer today with select few position pay tribute a whole lotinless peopleto(and warmerfor well access.

Never vote yesaton any measure before man was here all).

And yep, that proposes to fixkilling a problem previous people have been otherasurprised measure caused or made Which is people since history was worse. first written. prettyMaybe much some all of research them. will help stop nowtrends. go vote.

No sense we’ll in listening all ofSothese Otherwise, be to me tell younever who to voteanything for, however. saying we’ve seen like it in Which I didn’t. our lives.

And not in a good way.

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

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

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Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac

n ST. MARY’S MEDICAL CENTER RECEIVES RECOGNITION FOR MATERNITY CARE

SCL Health St. Mary’s Medical Center in Grand Junction continues to earn recognition for its maternity care.

For a second consecutive year, St. Mary’s ranked among the best maternity hospitals.

The ranking was based on a survey conducted by a national nonprofit and news magazine based on protocols to protect mothers and babies as well as low rates of C-section and early elective deliveries.

“We are honored to have been named as one of the best maternity hospitals for the second year in a row,” said Jenn Tuning, director of women’s and children’s services at St. Mary’s.

“This designation means mothers and their babies can come to St. Mary’s to receive top-notch clinical care and an exceptional overall experience while staying close to home.”

The ranking also reflects the efforts of staff, Tuning said.

“This recognition validates the hard work of our associates at SCL Health St. Mary’s.”

For more information about SCL Health St. Mary’s, log on to www.sclhealth.org/locations.st-marys-medical-center. n GET THE PICTURE: MESA MALL HERALDS SPRING

BY SCHEDULING EASTER PHOTO SESSIONS Mesa Mall in Grand Junction will offer Easter photos taken by photographer Michael Neel.

Sessions are set for noon to 6 p.m. March 27, March 28 and April 3 in the Clock Court of the mall, 2424 U.S. Highway 6 & 50.

While the Easter Bunny won’t be available, spring decorations will be set up.

“We are proud to continue to offer opportunities for our community to safely gather at Mesa Mall and to reimagine timehonored traditions in new ways,” said Paul Petersen, general manager of Mesa Mall.

Online reservations for photos are encouraged and can be completed online at https://shopmesamall.com.

To follow COVID-19 safety protocols, the event will include a socially distanced waiting line and cleaning practices. Participants should wear face coverings in accordance with state and local guidelines.

Neel will offer digital downloads. Customers will be able to pick up prints within a few days after their sessions. Packages will start at $20. n DOWNTOWN GRAND JUNCTION ANTIQUE MALL CELEBRATES ITS 10TH YEAR IN OPERATION A Robin’s Nest of Antiques & Treasures in downtown Grand Junction celebrated its 10th year in business.

A Robin’s Nest operates one of the largest antique malls between Denver and Las Vegas and offers a range of merchandise that includes artwork, books, cameras, coins, comics, ephemera, furniture, jewelry, records, precious stones and toys. The store helps other antique dealers by allowing them to rent space and sell their wares.

The store is located at 602 Main St. in an historic building that previously housed Interiors, Capps Furniture, Manuel’s Department Store and United Hardware.

Robin and Shane Allerheiligen opened A Robin’s Nest and then relocated and expanded the operation. For more information, visit https://www.arobinsnestgj.com or call 644-0383.

The Business Times

March 25-aPril 14, 2021

SHARE YOUR NEWS

NOTEWORTHY

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

Bray Real Estate based in Grand Junction has received recognition for production during 2020.

Leading Real Estate Companies of the World awarded Bray Real Estate with a Member Achievement Award. The firm won the Momentum Club Award for improvement in broker-to-broker referral production in 2020.

“This award showcases the hard work of our agents and staff as they endeavored to make the transactions of all of our buyers and sellers as Robert Bray seamless as possible during a very challenging year,” said Robert Bray, chief executive officer.

Bray Real Estate is a member of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, a global network of more than 550 independent real estate firms and 135,000 sales associates that account for a total of more than 1 million transactions a year.

“The evolving needs of homeowners resulted in increased activity for our network whether relating to the demand for more space, the appeal of a change of scenery, the ability to work from anywhere or the desire to be closer to family,” said Paul Boomsma, president and CEO of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World.

The awards will be presented during a conference planned for the end of May, but the winners were announced at a virtual event. “We didn’t want to delay the opportunity to acknowledge their success,” Boomsma said.

Bray Real Estate operates offices at 1015 N. Seventh St. in Grand Junction. For more information, call 242-3647 or visit www.brayandco.com.

n PRESIDENT OF CATTLEMEN’S ASSOCIATION ENCOURAGED BY MEAT IN DAY SUPPORT A Fruita rancher who serves as a leader of the cattle industry in Colorado, said she was encouraged by a show of support across the state for the industry.

An event dubbed “Meat In” day included not only specials at retailers and restaurants and government proclamations, but also elicited contributions to support local communities and the beef industry.

“While we saw rural Colorado turn out Janie VanWinkle in record numbers and with record donations collected, we were also encouraged by the strengthening of a bond between metropolitan and rural voices around this effort,” said Janie VanWinkle, president of the Colorado Cattlemen’s Association. “We are appreciative of the support around the Meat In movement and look forward to continuing to strengthen this partnership across the state and nation into the future.”

Meat In included more than 75 events across the state in which a total of more than 25,000 people were served complimentary barbecue meals. A total of more than 35 cities and counties passed proclamations supporting the Colorado agriculture industry or designating March 20 as “Cattlemen’s Day.” Terry Fankhauser, executive vice president of the Colorado Cattlemen’s Association, said Meat In involved more than enjoying meals with family and friends. “Many events emphasized supporting and feeding the food insecure. Donations were collected at varying events to support their local communities and the broader beef industry,” Fankhauser said. “The tally is ongoing, but as of late, over $300,000 supporting need-based causes has been collected in the name of Meat In day.” n STATE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR ANNOUNCES HER INTENTION TO STEP DOWN A woman who’s served in a variety of state and federal government roles has announced her intention to step down from her latest position as executive director of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade.

Betsy Markey announced her last day would be March 26.

Markey also served as regional administrator of the U.S. Small Business Betsy Markey Administration as well as a congresswoman from Colorado. She was appointed in late 2018 to lead the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade.

“Now that our economic momentum continues its path back to full strength, conditions support a successful transition to new leadership,” she said.

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BusinessBriefs Briefs Business BusinessPeople People Almanac Business Almanac

n GRAND JUNCTION REAL ESTATE FIRM HONORS TOP AGENTS FOR FEBRUARY

Toni Heiden-Moran and Kathy Tomkins were honored as the topperforming agents for February at Weichert Realtors-Heiden Homes Realty in Grand Junction.

Heiden-Moran, owner and managing broker of the firm, posted the most closed transactions. Tomkins had the most new listings for the month.

Toni Heiden-Moran Heiden recently celebrated 43 years of work as a real estate agent in Mesa County. Tomkins brings to her duties experience operating mobile home supply and heavy equipment construction companies.

Weichert Realtors-Heiden Homes Realty operates offices at 735 Rood Ave. For more information, including properties for sale and rent, call 245-7777 Kathy Tomkins or visit www.heidenhomes.com.com. n BROKER ASSOCIATE JOINS TEAM AT RIFLE REAL ESTATE OFFICE Kendall Rapp has joined Bray Real Estate as a broker associate at the firm’s office in Rifle.

“Her energy and commitment will make her a tremendous asset to our team,” said Stewart Cruickshank, sales manager at Bray Real Estate.

For more information about Bray Real Estate, visit the website located Kendall Rapp at www.brayandco.com.

The Business Times

SHARE YOUR NEWS The Business Times welcomes submissions for free publication in Business People and the Almanac calendar of events. Email submissions to phil@thebusinesstimes.com or submit a news release online at www.thebusinesstimes.com. n DEPUTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY AWARDED FOR WELFARE FRAUD PROSECUTION Taylor Leighton, a deputy district attorney with the 21st Judicial District in Grand Junction, has been selected as Prosecutor of the Year by the Colorado Welfare Fraud Council.

The council is a statewide organization comprised of city, county, state and federal employees who work with various public assistance programs and strive to detect and Taylor Leighton prevent fraud. The award recognizes individuals who’ve demonstrated excellence in prosecuting welfare fraud.

Matt Furphy, an investigator with the Mesa County Department of Human Services, nominated Leighton for the award.

Leighton has worked with the district attorney’s office for more than three years. He prosecuted the second known welfare fraud jury trial in Mesa County, a proceeding that resulted in 14 felony convictions, 20 years of probation and $35,000 in restitution.

“We are proud of the fine work Deputy DA Leighton has done in his handling of the case, and we are grateful to have such diligent welfare fraud investigators to work with to make successful prosecutions possible,” said Dan Rubenstein, Mesa County district attorney.

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n COLDWELL BANKER RECOGNIZES BEST-SELLING AGENTS AND TEAMS Coldwell Banker Commercial Prime Properties and Coldwell Banker Commercial Prime Properties based in Grand Junction honored individual agents and teams at an annual awards event.

More than 200 people participated in the virtual event, which featured Tommy Spaulding, a best-selling author and leadership expert.

Mike Foster Coldwell Banker Commercial Prime Properties honored Mike Foster with the top commercial broker award presented to the agent with the highest adjusted gross commission income in his branch.

The Posner Schuette Group — Becca Posner and Brandon Schuette as well as Brianna Hughery and Stephanie Wagner — was named the commercial team with the highest adjusted gross commission income.

See BEST-SELLING page 31

The Posner Schuette Group includes, from left, Becca Posner, Stephanie Wagner, Brianna Hughey and Brandon Schuette. (Photo courtesy Coldwell Banker Commercial Prime Properties)

March 25-aPril 14, 2021

March 25 n Grand Junction Master Networks referrals group Zoom meeting, 9 a.m. March 25 and April 1 and 8. 216-7723 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Thursday Friends networking lunch, noon, Suds Brothers Brewery, 127 E Aspen Ave. 858-3894 or https://fruitachamber.org n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business networking luncheon, noon, JXN Station coworking space, 571 25 Road, Grand Junction.

Participants should bring a soup, salad or side dish to share. Reservations required. 858-3894 or https://fruitachamber.org March 30 n Networking at Noon free gathering for members of the Fruita and Palisade chambers of commerce, noon March 30 and April 6 and 13, KAFM Radio Room, 1310 Ute Ave., Grand Junction. Email reservations required. membership@fruitachamber.org March 31 n Free business valuation workshop, 9 to 10:30 a.m.

Business Incubator Center. https://gjincubator.org or 243-5242 n Young Professionals Network of Mesa County lunch conversation with Mesa County Coroner Victory Yahn, noon to 1 p.m., Mesa County Coroner Building, 831 Noland Ave., Grand Junction.

Reservations required. www.ypnmc.org April 1 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Thursday Friends networking lunch, noon, Rib City Grill, 455 Kokopelli Drive, Unit E. 858-3894 or https://fruitachamber.org April 6 n How to start a business webinar, 1 to 2:30 p.m.

April 6 and 7. Admission $55. 243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org April 8 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Thursday Friends networking lunch, noon, Strayhorn Grill, 456 Kokopelli Drive. 858-3894 or https://fruitachamber.org Upcoming n Western Colorado Human Resource Association spring conference, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 21, Colorado Mesa University Center ballroom and virtually. Early registration $299 for members, $349 for others. Students and special guests pay $99. www.wchra.org n Palisade Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours, 5:30 5o 7 p.m. April 21, Centennial Canoe, 255 E. Second St. Admission $6. Registration required. 464-7458 or https://palisadecoc.com n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business Conference in the Country, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

April 22, Absolute Prestige Ranch, 1351 Q Road, Loma. Admission $35 for chamber and Women in Business members, $40 for others. 858-3894 or https://fruitachamber.org F

March 25-april 14, 2021

Best-selling

Cindy Ficklin

Nikki Metiva

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Jessica Holt

Continued from page 30 Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties honored Cindy Ficklin as sales person of the year for highest adjusted gross commission income at her branch.

Nikki Metiva was honored as rookie of the year for highest adjusted gross commission income in her first year with the company.

The Shafer Team — Julie Shafer, Rhonda Bever, Anna Martin, Beth Rubalcaba, Robbie Seng and Stephanie Woolley — was honored as the team with the highest adjusted gross commission income.

Jessica Holt received the Distinctive Angel Award for an agent who gives of themselves to help the community.

“This year’s award winners stepped up to serve their clients and their communities in big ways last year, and we’re proud to recognize all that they’ve accomplished.

We are deeply appreciative of their hard work and can’t wait to see what 2021 has in store,” said Todd Conklin, chairman of Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties.

Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties and Coldwell Banker Commercial Prime Properties operates offices in Colorado, Idaho and Montana. For information, log on to www.cbcprimeproperties.com or www.cbdistnctive.com.

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News, views and advice you can use

The Shafer Team at Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties in Grand Junction includes, from left, Stephanie Woolley, Anna Martin, Julie Shafer, Rhonda Bever (front), Beth Rubalcaba and Robbie Seng. The group was honored as the top Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties team for 2020 with the highest adjusted gross income for the year. (Photo courtesy Coldwell Banker Distnctive Properties)

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March 25-aPril 14, 2021