62 minute read
Employee screening has become more important than ever in supporting
The Business Times Trends Contributors
COMING ATTRACTIONS n The Business Incubator Center offers presentations and webinars on starting a business in Western Colorado. The next sessions of Opinion Business Briefs Background check Employee screening more important than ever in supporting businesses two-part webinars on how to Although hiring has slowed in the midst of the coronavirus The Society for Human Resource Management recently put it Business People pandemic, many businesses are beginning to look at what the new normal will mean in terms of recruiting and retaining top employees. Background screening plays a major role in supporting businesses that’ve worked diligently to offer quality goods and start a business are set for 1 to 2:30 p.m. June 29 and 30 and again from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Aug. 13 and 14. Almanac this way: “Most companies screen for red flags in their employees’ work, legal or financial history once, before they come on board on day one. The problem is that those checks represent a moment in time. If an employee commits a crime, has a license revoked
An in-person business services and developed superior reputations. Screening candidates or loses work authorization after being hired, the employer may startup workshop is set for and employees also helps in defending negligent hiring claims. never find out.” 9 to 11:30 a.m. July 29 at the All 50 states have issued guidelines for New technology offers nationwide screening — including 48 center, 2591 Legacy Way in Grand Junction Webinars and workshops reopening, and many workplaces are beginning to cautiously follow those recommendations. Differing orders by states, counties and states and more than 2,800 incarceration facilities, covering more than 85 percent of all incarcerations. Data updates, at a minimum, once every hour. If there’s an alert on one of your employees, you’ll cover the business planning individual communities have left businesses be notified in near real-time. Once the information is entered in the process, financing and other looking at background screening in various system, an employer needs only to update the roster monthly for any topics. Admission is $55, which ways to ensure their employees maintained new hires or terminated employees. includes admission to Fast Trac classes on startup topics. The next bookkeeping boot desired behaviors during the shutdown. Background screening will likely look a bit different going forward as many current A significant number of employers also require re-screening when a change of employment status occurs — such as a promotion, change of duties or transfer to another department. If a financial camp is set for 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 10 at the center. Kathy Krey and new hire employees have been given the option to work from home. It will be analyst acquires additional duties requiring access to banking information for individuals, the employer should perform a new
Participants will learn how important to monitor all employees moving background screening, including a credit check. to set up and track accounting records and what balance sheets, cash flow projections and income statements can tell forward. Regulatory changes affect many essential businesses, including health care and financial organizations that face legal requirements not only to screen employees, but also meet specific guidelines set forth within their industries. Colorado businesses In choosing a background screening partner, it’s important to consider several different traits, including tailored customer services and a dedicated associate for your company with the ability to customize packages that meet your needs. In addition, them about their businesses. working with at-risk adults must complete the Colorado Adult researching reviews on such matters as cost, response times and Admission is $75, which Protective Services unit check on all employees upon hire and live representatives is paramount. Basically, you must work with includes lunch. when not working for more than 30 days. an organization you not only trust with delicate and confidential For more information about upcoming events, services and programs offered at the Fair Credit Reporting Act regulations have not seen recent changes. But within this industry, there’s been discussion about making employers continue to protect their employees, property information, but also one that understands your specific industry and cares about your needs. Regardless of your industry or the size of your organization, Business Incubator Center, call and customers. In several webinars, the topic of negligent hiring background screening constitutes money well spent to meet the 243-5242 or visit the website at has come to the forefront. An employee’s future actions are, to obligations of a sensible and judicious employer. Meeting the www.gjincubator.org. some extent, predictable by past behaviors. But as businesses requirements for safe work environments and protecting the n The Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce has scheduled its annual legislative face growing “ban the box” initiatives, it will become more important to have a system to continuously update the ongoing illegal behaviors of all employees as well as the status of their products and integrity of the company only increases the value of what you offer to your shareholders, sponsors and the community at large. recap for 8:30 a.m. June 25. professional licenses.
Participation in the Zoom When employers participate in second chance programs in Kathy Krey owns Background Research, part of Lighthouse HR meeting is free for chamber which they hire individuals with some level of criminal history Support in Grand Junction. She’s a member of the Professional members and $20 for others. Registration is required. For more information about and allow them to re-enter the work environment, continuous monitoring of criminal actions offers some peace of mind. The technology used to continuously monitor these behaviors Background Screening Association and certified through the Fair Credit Reporting Act. For more information, call 243-7509 or visit the website at www.lighthousehrs.net. She’s also a member chamber events, log on to the as well as professional licenses offers the most promising source of the Western Colorado Human Resource Association. For more website at www.gjchamber.org. of defending due diligence and negligent hiring claims as well as information, visit www.wchra.org. helps mitigate the risk of insider threats. F
June 25-July 8, 2020
Address personality conflicts at work and thrive
The effective, efficient and smooth flow of information is critical to consistently meeting and exceeding the wants and needs of customers, foreseeing challenges and overcoming obstacles. Good communication is no less essential to producing and delivering high-quality goods and services in a timely manner. When communication is limited or even impossible because of personality conflicts, the effects can be profound. Personality conflicts hurt businesses by hampering not only communication, but also collaboration, teamwork and morale. In turn, everything from efficiency and productivity to team member satisfaction and retention to business growth and profitability are affected. The degree to which team members don’t communicate and collaborate presents one of the biggest
Marcus Straub obstacles to business success. It’s important for business owners and managers to be aware of the negative behaviors that are a result of personality conflicts and to address them early and effectively to maintain communication, collaboration, teamwork and morale at consistently high levels.
Do you recognize any or all of these sabotaging behaviors in your business? n Avoidance: Some people choose avoidance to cope with a personality conflict. While this might offer a more quiet and discreet way of dealing with the situation, it’s not effective in fostering the high levels of communication, collaboration and trust necessary in highly functional businesses. n Verbal sabotage: Gossip and snide comments are common when there’s a personality conflict between team members. This type of negativity doesn’t lead to
positive outcomes and can significantly damage the work environment. It has no place in a powerful business model. n Resistance: When in resistance mode, individuals openly or overtly resist the suggestions, desires, directions and demands of the people with which they conflict. They might even demonstrate intentionally spiteful actions intended to get back at or push the other person’s buttons. This type of behavior is not part of a successful team. n Arguing: This behavior is the antithesis of effective communication, collaboration and teamwork and doesn’t contribute to positive environments in which team members perform at peak levels. Arguments and aggressive disagreements disrupt operations, send negativity rippling throughout the business and damage morale and company culture.
If you recognize some or all of these behaviors in yourself or your team members, it’s important to realize the tremendous drag they exert on the team, resources, operations and profitability of your company. When top talent and customers are lost as a result of these conflicts, it’s already gone too far. Given the overwhelming downside personality conflicts bring to a business, it’s imperative to discover, address and overcome them as quickly as possible.
Many personality conflicts arise out of unconscious habits and tendencies that exist within each team member. Sometimes these habits can easily be corrected by simply drawing attention to the damaging negative behaviors in which team members engage and making it clear they’re not acceptable.
Team trainings built upon highly accurate assessment results and designed to help people understand themselves and others — their similarities and differences — and also teach them how to effectively communicate with various behavioral types are invaluable to business success. With greater understanding and acceptance of each other and enhanced communication skills, personality conflicts are significantly reduced.
Effective coaching helps people become fully aware of the situation at hand and their role in it. By working with a qualified professional, team members learn to take responsibility for their attitudes and corresponding behaviors. They can then correct them to create a more positive and collaborative work environment.
Another option for reducing personality conflicts is to proactively hire for both attitudes and skills. Through the use of assessments that measure the attitudes and skills of the team member you bring into your business, personality conflicts can be diminished from the outset.
Sometimes, team members insist on keeping conflicts alive and refuse to resolve differences. In these instances, the wisest choice is to let them go. Any time you reduce negativity in the workplace, you improve the satisfaction level of the team and, in turn, customer service and profitability.
Each of us is unique. We won’t always agree. But when strategic investments are made in helping team members better understand themselves and others, it becomes easier to accept differences. Communication and collaboration become the norm. It takes a well-designed team working together in a culture free of personality conflicts to deliver the best possible experience to 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@lifeisgreatcoaching.com or through the website located at www.lifeisgreatcoaching.com. F
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A few weeks before our collective world catapulted into pandemic pandemonium, my own world was rocked when I took my mom to a doctor’s appointment that turned into an emergency room visit and, a few hours later, a stage 4 cancer diagnosis. In less than five weeks, she was gone. While I’m still processing her death, it’s what happened in the few weeks before she died I’ve struggled with the most. As my mother shrank to a fraction of her normal size, our family dynamics magnified. Although we’re a close and caring family — the kind that remembers each other’s birthdays and always parts with “I love yous” —
Rebecca Weitzel emotions spiked as my siblings and I grappled with the prospect of losing our mother. Last-minute decisions my mother made stirred up old feelings. Carefully buried resentments resurfaced.
At one point, one sister shared with me some pain she was feeling — pain both old and new. Part of it stemmed from a childhood perception I held a privileged place in the family because of certain qualities I possessed she believed our family valued more highly than qualities she possessed. I responded with incredulity and defensiveness. That’s not true. Even if it were true, how is it my fault? Why bring up these things now?
After a brief conversation, she decided to share her experiences and feelings more fully in writing to help me better understand the source of her pain. I refused to read it. I insisted we talk in person so I could respond and share my own feelings or agree to move on and get along for our mother’s sake.
She opted for the latter, afraid a personal conversation
Now is the time to educate ourselves on the history and current events that have left deep scars on a group of people simply because of the color of their skin. Now is the time to mourn with them, support them and work with them to make things better once and for all.
would feel more combative than she could handle at the time. We proceeded to coordinate and care for our mother without addressing her feelings any further.
The day my mother died, my siblings and I surrounded her, held her hand, expressed our love and gave her permission to go. We promised we’d continue to care for and love each other in her absence. And we have.
But now that a few months have passed, I’ve reflected on my response to my sister during that time and feel ashamed.
I’m ashamed because she was hurting and I dismissed her feelings out of a selfish need to protect my own. I’m ashamed because I felt like my perspective and feelings were equally important despite the fact that in that moment, she was the one suffering the most, not me. I’m ashamed because I now realize what I should have done instead. I should have just listened.
Why? Because that’s how we show someone we care. We listen. We empathize. We try to understand, even if we see things differently.
The results of decades of research confirm feeling understood is essential to each of us and our well-being. It allows us to bond with others and dodge the detrimental physical and mental health effects of social disconnection.
It follows that as leaders, one of the most important actions we can take to improve well-being in our organizations and communities is to listen to others, especially to those in pain.
Right now, many of our black colleagues, employees, friends and community members are voicing their pain — pain both old and new. Now is not the time to be defensive with responses like, “But I’m not racist.” Now is not the time to be dismissive by suggesting systemic racism doesn’t exist. Now is not the time to be divisive by copying and pasting white pride rants and politically motivated memes on social media.
Now is the time to educate ourselves on the history and current events that have left deep scars on a group of people simply because of the color of their skin. Now is the time to read the stories written by people of color, listen to their words, seek to understand and feel their pain. Now is the time to mourn with them, support them and work with them to make things better once and for all.
I finally read my sister’s story. It made me uncomfortable. It made me want to defend myself and argue. But I won’t do that this time. Instead, I’ll seek to understand. I’ll invite her to share more. I’ll listen.
Why? Because that’s how we show someone we care.
Rebecca Weitzel is president and co-founder of Good Life Wellness Solutions, which provides affordable and easy to implement workplace well-being solutions, an online platform, consulting and education services tailored to small businesses. Contact Weitzel at (970) 216-6390 or rebecca@goodlifewellnesssolutions.com or visit the website at www.GoodLifeWellnessSolutions.com. F
June 25-July 8, 2020
Business plan provides a roadmap to success
Did you write a business plan when you started your firm? Have you kept this valuable management and planning tool current? Given the effects of the coronavirus pandemic and ongoing difficulties for many owners, your business plan is more essential to and vital for your success than ever. What does updating your business plan do for you and the success of your business? Lots of things. As the headline states, a business plan provides a proverbial roadmap. Every time your business takes a turn that isn’t on your original map, you need to update the map or you’ll get lost. Your business plan also provides the proposal you make to potential
Janet Arrowood advisors, lenders, partners and others to show how you run your business and what you’ll do with the resources, funds or support they provide.
According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, there are two main types of business plans: the traditional, detailed version and lean startup version. If you’re in the startup or start-over mode, you probably should create a traditional plan. But you could be able to use the lean startup plan.
For established businesses, a streamlined plan that combines elements of the traditional and lean startup plans works well. If you’re looking for financing or investors, you’ll probably have to provide additional information and might want to use the traditional plan.
What goes into a streamlined business plan? This is a top-level document with key information, but not too much detail. It’s usually under five pages. The typical headings, with a brief description of each, are: n Executive summary: This is the last thing you write even though it’s the first thing a reader sees. Briefly
summarize the most important points in your business plan, keeping in mind your intended audience and what they value. Don’t exceed a half page. n Company description: You’ve been in business for some time now. When was the last time you tried to describe your company, mission and goals in four to six 50-word paragraphs? Focus and conciseness are critical. Use quantitative, rather than qualitative, terms and minimize descriptors and adjectives. Apply the KISS principle: Keep it short and sweet. Add a simple organization chart. n Marketing approach: Highlight the ways you identify and target your most viable markets. Keep in mind the 80/20 principle: 80 percent of your business comes from 20 percent of your clients or prospects. Divide your market into A, B and C clients. The A list is that top 20 percent. The B list is the next 20 percent to 30 percent. The C list, often referred to as suspects, is the rest of the market. Limit this to half a page, about four, 50-word paragraphs. n Key partnerships: This is the group of suppliers; vendors; subcontractors; attorneys, CPAs and other professional advisors; and organizations you need. If you have an advisory board, this is the place to list the board and its members by position and field rather than name. Briefly elaborate on why each group member is essential to your growth and success. This section shouldn’t exceed one page, or eight 50-word paragraphs. n Key activities: How will you establish and build a competitive advantage? What sets you apart from others in your field? Cite two to four examples with 50-word — or shorter — descriptions or explanations. n Key resources: What particular resources present an advantage over others in your field? If you’re a certified minority or woman-owned business or veteran-owned or service-disabled veteran owned business, include that in this section. If you have trademarked, copyrighted or patented a particular item or own proprietary, unique intellectual property, list that. n Value proposition: What makes your business stand out? Do you guarantee 48-hour turnaround when the industry standard is 96 hours? Have you won awards or recognition others have not? n Revenue streams: How do you make money? Revenue streams change from year to year for both service- and product-oriented businesses. One year you might earn 50 percent of your revenue from one line of business and the remainder from five or six other lines. But when you revisit your business plan the next year, you find you earned 30 percent of your revenue from one of the other five or six lines and only 10 percent from last year’s top revenue source. Reviewing and understanding your revenue sources is critical to growth and success.
There are other elements you might want to include — customer segments and relationships, cost structure or financial projections — depending on your needs and circumstances.
Keep in mind your business plan is a living document. It should be updated annually or whenever big changes to your business, model or market occur. Even better, review your plan at the start of every quarter. Businesses plans quickly grow outdated, particularly in this unsettled business climate. Looking over your business plan on a regular basis offers an excellent way to see how your business evolves and position it for even greater growth.
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. F
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CMU takes proactive approach in pandemic efforts
I’ve enjoyed the privilege to develop incredible relationships with countless businesses and organizations as Monument Health has grown and become more deeply ingrained in Western Colorado. Count Colorado Mesa University among those organizations. Through my service as a CMU trustee, I’ve been able to witness the thoughtful and proactive leadership that places students at the center of decisionmaking. The response to coronavirus pandemic was no exception. Not only did CMU graduate nursing students early to help with hospital efforts, the CMU Foundation also created a relief fund for students who might not have
Stephanie Motter been able to continue their education. Now, the university has created a clear path forward to reopening the campus for fall semester.
I don’t have to tell you how impactful the nationwide shutdown in response to the pandemic has been to our economy. Practically overnight, jobs disappeared along with the part-time sources of income that allowed students to attend classes and pay student loans. Many students faced the reality they might not be able to the return in the fall or even continue their education because of the financial burden.
The CMU Foundation created the Maverick Relief Fund within weeks of the shutdown to help students through micro grants. The community rallied, nearly $325,000 was raised and grants have helped 115 students who would not have otherwise been able to continue their education.
Monument Health also made meaningful decisions to support CMU students we employ as interns and “wellness
warriors.” We’re proud to continue to keep Mavs on the payroll even when tough financial decisions had to be made because of the downturn.
Although CMU will join with countless businesses and nonprofits in Mesa County in experiencing the financial effects of the pandemic, trustees unanimously voted not to raise tuition, fees or housing rates for the 2020-21 school year. We made this decision knowing the same students receiving help through the Maverick Relief Fund would likely see it as another obstacle to finishing their education. By voting for the freeze, it was our goal to remove any barriers that would preclude any students from returning, especially first-generation, low-income and non-traditional students.
As we look forward to recovery, CMU has been a national leader and the first institution in Colorado to announce in-person learning would resume in the fall by following sound science and medical best practices.
Although online learning in the spring offered a fine short-term alternative to closure, many students struggled without face-to-face instruction. Many more were unable to finish the semester. CMU President Tim Foster and his management team knew returning in the fall was the best option. They assembled a team of public health officials, epidemiologists, doctors and medical experts to begin working toward that end.
The initiative — titled Safe Together, Strong Together — involves three objectives: training, prevention and screening. The initiative takes all of these elements into consideration as policies and guidelines are tested and implemented on a small scale this summer. To ensure success this fall, the final phase includes comprehensive screening practices established in coordination with Mesa County Public Health and local hospital partners. There’s still a lot of work to be done, but the team at CMU has thoughtfully and tirelessly worked to create a clear path forward for in-person learning this fall.
COVID-19 is likely not going away, meaning we’ll have to reopen and operate smartly and safely in this new reality at work, home and school.
CMU remains a bright spot in our community and a leader in paving the way for our new normal. It’s been an honor to play a small role in these efforts. It’s my hope the work being done at CMU will help other universities as well as businesses, nonprofits and school districts make sound decisions.
Stephanie Motter is chief executive officer of Monument Health, a clinically integrated health care network in Mesa County. She previously served as vice president of quality and clinical strategy at DaVita and worked as a nurse practitioner in the Denver and Boston areas. She holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Smith College a and master’s degree in nursing from Yale University. For additional information about Monument Health, visit www.MonumentHealth.net. F
RentaSpace.DiegoCorp.com
June 25-July 8, 2020
How about some relief for landlords?
Contrary to what some people believe, few rental property owners are in a financial position to forgo rent payments for months on end. They rely on this monthly income to pay mortgages and expenses. For some investors, rent payments constitute their primary source of income. So, where’s the relief for landlords when the government limits their ability to make money from their investments? Airlines, hotels and other industries received federal funding to compensate for some of their losses because of the coronavirus pandemic and related restrictions. On June 13, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis issued an executive order with the stated purpose of helping prevent evictions of tenants economically harmed by COVID-19. Under
Tim Whitney the order, landlords must provide tenants with 30 days notice of any default for nonpayment before initiating eviction proceedings. Colorado law previously required three days’ notice, and that was changed not too long ago to 10 days notice. Under the executive order, landlords and lenders are prohibited from charging any late fees or penalties for any breach of the terms of a lease or rental agreement due to nonpayment that were incurred from May 1 until June 13. Federal law still bans evictions at certain properties with federally backed mortgages until late July.
On June 15, the Colorado Senate passed a measure for individuals facing a housing-related hardship due to the pandemic and transferring money received from the federal government pursuant to the eviction legal defense fund and housing development grant fund. The way I read this, there’s now a pool of money tenants can access to pay a lawyer to sue their landlords if their landlords try to evict them for nonpayment.
California has attempted to prevent commercial landlords from evicting tenants for nonpayment as the Legislature works through a proposed measure. The measure would make it unlawful to terminate a tenancy, serve notice to terminate a tenancy, use lockout or utility shutoff actions to terminate a tenancy or otherwise endeavor to evict a tenant of commercial real property, including a
We wait all year, it seems, for summer to arrive. Now it’s finally here. When most of us think of summer, we think about outdoor fun and a chance to kick back. Although this year might seem different because of the pandemic, summer still offers many opportunities to stay active. Remain aware, though, that changes in schedules present challenges in keeping your fitness routine on track. So what can you do to have the most active, productive and fun-filled summer ever? Warm weather provides many opportunities for enjoying outdoor activities. Take the family camping, fishing or hiking. Work in your garden. Part of summer fun and fulfillment is enjoying the outdoors and the people you’re with. Paula During the summer months, your normal schedule could be altered — especially this
Reece summer with social distancing and the feeling of being cooped up. Those changes affect daily routines, including exercise schedules.
Here are a few tips to avoid sabotaging yourself this summer: n Set a summer goal. It’s almost mid-year. Ask yourself how you’ve done so far this year on your New Year’s resolutions. You might have succeeded in some areas, but not in others. You could need to re-evaluate your goals to make them more realistic and attainable. Maybe you didn’t set goals. This is a great time to start. Try setting a different goal. Call it summer 2020. What will that goal look like? It might be trying a new sport, learning to swim or visiting a national park. n Stick to a schedule. Make sure your summer days include some structure — like getting up at the same time each day and eating meals at set times. Plan activities for specific times — business or nonprofit organization, during the pendency of the state of emergency proclaimed by the governor related to COVID-19 unless the tenant has been found to pose a threat to the property, other tenants or person, business or other entity. If enacted, the measure would void any action taken by landlords to evict commercial tenants and allow certain commercial tenants to walk away from their lease obligations, which could have a significant effect on commercial leases. According to the International Council of Shopping Centers, the measure would upend real estate leases across California.
Similar laws have been proposed throughout the country and will exert great effects on landlords as these measures usually include no provisions to help landlords while they remain responsible for paying their mortgages, real estate taxes, insurance and maintenance on their properties.
I understand the need to keep everyone in their residences and protect certain businesses affected by the pandemic to avoid bankruptcy and permanent closures. But it seems unfair — and potentially unconstitutional — for government entities to negate contracts between private parties. The burden then falls on landlords to absorb some or all of these losses.
To be fair, landlords have collected some of their missing rents from residential tenants who received housing assistance from various organizations and commercial tenants that have received government assistance in the form of federal loans.
I know this might sound like a pity party for landlords, but the real impact will be on tenants if investors decide the risk and burden of owning rental property is too great and decide to sell to users. If this happens, there will be fewer rental units available in the market, and rents will go up.
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 additional information, call (970) 243-7375 or visit the internet website located at www.CBCPrimeProperties.com.
Follow a few tips to beat the summer heat
F exercising before breakfast, for example. n Stay busy. Without your appointment book filled, it could be easy to fall into a trap of becoming bored. Boredom goes hand in hand with low energy. Filling your days with stuff to do will give you a sense of accomplishment. For many of us, summer still means going to work each day. But with more daylight hours, you don’t have to miss out. Whether you’re taking a vacation or just a weekend, include activities the family already enjoys as well as something new. n Manage the heat. Although warmer weather is appreciated, hot days can seem unbearable. During these times, move your activities elsewhere. Go to the gym or splash in a pool. When you find yourself outdoors during scorching temperatures, remember to stay safe. Wear sunscreen or a long-sleeve shirt to protect your skin from harmful rays. Don’t forget the sunglasses and hat, too. Clothing that wicks moisture away from your skin as you perspire keeps you cooler. One of the most important items to keep you safe is water. Stay hydrated. n Eat healthy. This seems like an easy thing to do with all the fresh vegetables and fruit available. Beware of some of the foods associated with summer events, though. Backyard barbecues, campfire s’mores and ice cream treats can sabotage the best laid plans of staying fit through the summer.
Make summer a time to enjoy. Write down your summer 2020 goal and work toward realizing that goal. Make the most of every day, and you’ll make this summer your best ever.
Paula and Dale Reece own Crossroads Fitness Centers in Grand Junction with a downtown location at 225 N. Fifth St. and north location at 2768 Compass Drive. For more information, call 242-8746 or log on to the website at www.crossroadsfitness.com. F
Opinion Opinion
Business Briefs Business People Almanac A new year affords a new opportunity to meet local needs It’s that time of year when resolutions and prognostications abound. My favorite saying applied to New Year’s resolutions is in saying they’re basically a bunch of promises to break the first week long run always hurt consumers. Another fact is that unemployment reaches a certain level based on the economy. And while the government might brag the number is low, it’s more than likely the government did Bold predictions for 2015 more like not-so-bold repeats There’s so much going on I’m at a point where I don’t want to write this column. Then again, I’ve had a hard time writing the past several columns. It’s not because of what I see happening in the world. That’s easy. So many bad actors, so little space. calls it the “summer of love” and the governor had no idea what was even going on several days into the mess. What are we being told to think? It’s because racism is systemic and this is the only way oppressed people can be heard. While you’re thinking about it, ignore what others think of you News both good and bad in reporting COVID effects There’s encouraging and discouraging news about the effects of the coronavirus pandemic on businesses in the latest economic indicators and survey results. As is usually the case with complex and changing situations, it’s a mix that requires a more nuanced consideration. It’s not necessarily rocket science, but more like A new year almost always brings an opportunity for a fresh start and common sense. of January. And while I won’t predict a It’s because of something to cause that number being low First, if you think one human should renewed ambition to do things better. In business, that usually boils down to providing customers better products and services faster and at lower cost than competitors. Part of the process must If the implications weren’t so serious, it would be almost like those good news and bad news jokes. The good news for an avid golfer: Heaven is full of beautiful courses. The bad news: You tee off at 10 tomorrow morning. whole lot, I can pretty much accurately nail a few things that without question will make the news. You will see these are what I think of them. That’s where we are. Many places in the — and not in a good way. Conversely, when business picks up, it’s because the people who need to buy widgets who were not enslave another, you need God. Because only God can change your heart to be rid of such hate. Second, if you have include listening to customers to determine what they actually need and then The most glaring example has been coverage of the latest national labor pretty, well, predictable: United States are buying widgets because the economy was any friends who think it’s OK to enslave meeting that need. After all, it does little good to offer the latest and greatest if estimates. The good news, of course, was that U.S. payrolls increased 2.5 million ■ Prediction one: run by people who contracting due to natural (or unnatural, any human for any reason, you need nobody actually wants what you’re selling. in May as restaurants and other businesses shuttered by the pandemic began to There will be some don’t really care government caused) reasons, decided we new friends. Lastly, racism will only Just like the businesses that belong to the group, the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce invariably starts out the new year with a reassessment of the services and resources it provides and how well they match with members reopen and employees returned to work. That’s the biggest one-month gain since at least 1939. Unfortunately, the bad news is that payrolls dropped 20.7 million in April, the largest loss on record that pushed the jobless rate to its highest level sort of weather event, natural disaster or heinous occurrence what you do — the recent rioting and people going free after better buy some widgets. The government had nothing to do with this. ■ Prediction four: In keeping with prosper by burning down businesses and destroying lives of those one side deems “systemic” enablers of racism. The world needs. Jeff Franklin, the new chairman of the chamber board of directors, personifies this approach in describing what he considers his role for the coming for monthly records going back to 1948. The difference results in the even worse news there a lot of people who still haven’t returned to work. Tragically, since where someone will be interviewed and say destroying property and lives, if not indeed Craig Hall things the government does, I predict the government will manipulate the numbers to needs to be rid of all these atrocities. Which brings us to our local brouhaha year: listen to members, determine their needs and then meet those needs. It’s a some businesses might never reopen, those jobs are gone for good. the following: “I’ve taking lives — but make the claim the economy is getting with Anna Stout, who decided it’s OK to role with which Franklin is familiar as market president of Bank of Colorado. The situation is similar in Mesa County, where the seasonally unadjusted never seen anything how one should be made to think. better because of how hard it is working to break protocol at a recent Grand Junction The process will take on a more structured approach in what the chamber plans as the resumption of a program aptly called Listening to Business. Under the program, business owners participate in in-depth interviews to identify barriers to unemployment rate dropped 3.6 points in May as businesses reopened and employees went back to work. That’s great news. The bad news, though, is the jobless rate remains at 9 percent. like that in my lifetime.” It’s as if this person is a required Craig Hall Let’s start with the obvious: COVID-19. Everyone could see the reports from China were ominous. Yet, what were we told to help all of us “working Americans.” Now you might say, “Craig, you always say this about President Obama because you don’t City Council meeting — all because of how she thinks — and put her fellow council members in danger. From what growth and other problems they encounter. There’s a measure of good news in that officials expect the unemployment attendee at every news think by our “experts” like Dr. Anthony like him.” You’re right in a sense. I don’t I’ve seen and heard, we tend to see this The new year offers a good time to join the proverbial club. rate to continue to tend down as the next phase of pandemic guidelines allow reporting event. While I understand most Fauci and the World Health Organization know the man, but what I know of him and incident based on what part of the story we As an advertiser or reader, what do you need from the businesses to further expand operations. Business Times? people’s perspective can indeed be limited as the virus progressed — which is what a his thinking, I don’t like it or him one iota. prefer to read or the way we understand it While business journals traditionally gather and report the relevant news to readers, communication isn’t necessarily a one-way street. That’s especially true as Tax collections, a measure of sales activity, dropped precipitously for the City of Grand Junction and Mesa County in May. But that’s a lagging indicator since by, or contained within, their own personal experiences, it is too much to ask to virus does, no matter what we do — around the globe? We were told it can’t pass human Before you go off, however, I didn’t like President Bush and his bailouts, stimulus based on how we think. I have no idea why our elected betters Web sites and e-mail make the dialogue more convenient than ever. May collections reflect April sales. The June reports could bring better news. consult some historical perspective before to human and wasn’t a threat to the United and his abandoning the free market to save feel the need to have a declaration of this
Good publications don’t exist in a vacuum. They respond to the needs of The latest results from a series of email surveys conducted by the Grand saying such a thing? Yes, this response can States. Yet, within a coupe of months, the free market. And I don’t know him or that every time a group thinks this or advertisers and readers. They provide what’s needed. Junction Area Chamber of Commerce similarly offer good news and bad news. apply to some events. But when it comes President Donald Trump had been made to either. What the government does, and the that. And they all do it — our county
So what do you need? Perhaps the best news is most of the business owners and managers who to weather and natural disasters, I’m pretty think 2 MILLION or more Americans could only thing it can do, is hurt the economy. commissioners being the worst. If I see Is there additional news coverage that would help keep you informed about local business developments? Are there features that would be interesting or useful? Is there advice that would make your jobs a little easier? responded to the latest survey remain upbeat. Asked to look ahead six months, nearly 43 percent said they expect conditions to be much better, but not yet back to pre-pandemic levels. Nearly 40 percent forecast better slightly better sure this is simply history repeating itself. Same as it has for millions and millions of years. More important, the planet made it! die if he didn’t shut the country down to slow the spread and prevent our health care systems from being overrun. Unless it does nothing or put criminals in jail instead of partnering with them, nothing the government does will help. Always look one more declaration of “this special week” or “that special day” — especially socially distanced for the photo op — I’m It’s equally important to ask what you don’t need. With limited time to conditions, but down from earlier this year. Nearly 8 percent said they believe What didn’t were certain species. How’s And here we are today. Six months at it this way, whatever the government says gonna start thinking this is pandering at its produce content and limited space in which to publish it, would time and space be conditions will be back to normal. that for perspective? into a web of lies, mistakes, inaccuracies it is doing, whatever the name of the law it lowest level. Actually, I already do. better devoted to something else? The bad news is the pandemic and related restriction have taken a toll. While ■ Prediction two: When it comes to a and freedom lost all because our leaders is passing, or whatever the name or goal of Which brings us back to the What’s good? What isn’t? What’s needed? What isn’t? Let us know. Send us an e-mail. Comment online on the Business Times Web site at www.thebusinesstimes.com. You could even write an old-fashioned letter to 40 percent of businesses reported the pandemic had affected income less than 25 percent, about 29 percent reported income had been affected between 25 percent and 50 percent. Nearly 20 percent of businesses reported their incomes had been crime or something that occurs between humans, the other required attendee at all news reporting events is the person who told us to think one way one day and then 180 degrees opposite the next. Go ahead. Ask a few people what they know about the bureaucracy it is presenting to the people, expect the polar opposite to occur. I guess what I’m saying is that declaration from city council. Obviously, some on council decided reading a declaration on racism was needed and the editor if you’d like. Your feedback, both positive and negative, is valued and affected more than 50 percent. says this: “They we’re just the nicest COVID, and I’ll guarantee they’ll share perhaps it’s time to get out of our own just as obviously, Ms. Stout saw an will be carefully considered. Even as 49 percent of business reported bringing back half to all of their staffs, people, and in no way did I see something completely different viewpoints. perspective. There’s plenty of history opportunity. What do I think? Simple. Good publications are the result of not only the efforts of their staffs, but also 27 percent reported that layoffs prompted by the pandemic were permanent. like this coming.” Exactly. No one does But the common denominator is it’s books and historical research out there to Racism and bigotry are wrong in all forms collaborative efforts involving advertisers and readers. Most business owners and managers probably know the moral of the story. most of the time when it comes to really bad and we must listen to experts begin to understand that all of this has at any level. Now one should think I Like any other good business, we want to listen to our customers, find out what they need and then meet those needs. Economic indicators and survey results constitute important portions of the big picture of local conditions. But the news is seldom all good or all bad. It’s important not to neighbors and acquaintances. People should be surprised at what goes on from time to and government. Yes, even my many freedom-loving conservative friends add happened before. And it will again, whether the topic is people or government. don’t need a proclamation from someone elected to allow me those thoughts. Then It’s a new year. Please help us to do so. raise hopes too high or let despair sink too low. In more than one sense, slow and time in their neighborhoods, towns and this caveat. Me? I think it’s no worse than The best recommendation is to find again, I also wouldn’t have the pills to steady wins the race. ✦ with people they know because people are the every two year virus from China with some books or try that whole Google “ask a few members” of a group to join F good. And for the times that they shouldn’t which we deal. Except this time China thing. There’s a lot of information on the the meeting outside of protocol knowing be shocked — like with politicians, repeat destroyed our economy with the willing Great Depression. The truth is it wasn’t nearly 100 or so would show up — all offenders and terrorists — where’s the help of our leaders, including Trump. even a good one until the government got while alerting law enforcement there THE BUSINESSTIMES 609 North Ave., Suite 2, Grand Junction, CO 81501 TEL (970) 424-5133 • FAX (970) 424-5134 interview that says, “This doesn’t surprise me in the least.” ■ Prediction three: Something good And we’re still shut down. How about the riots? It’s plain to see what’s happening to lives and property involved. There’s also plenty of research on the medieval warm period when the planet was much warmer than today with could be some problems — and not expect problems. Yet, here we are with council will happen economically, and the there, isn’t it? There’s no mistaking a whole lot less people (and warmer well members being conciliatory and Publisher/Owner: Craig R. Hall Editor: Phil Castle government will take credit for it. The most recent example is gas prices, where people when our cities are on fire, citizens are hurting and killing other citizens and the before man was here at all). And yep, people have been killing other surprised explaining away their new thinking. Making this planned incident not about Reach advertising at: publisher@thebusinesstimes.com Reach the editor at: phil@thebusinesstimes.com. ask me why I won’t credit the president for low gas prices. My answer is simple: Government never makes the price of government in many areas is so castrated it can’t reset order and restore peace — to the point of backing the rioters in many cases. people since history was first written. Maybe some research will help stop all of these trends. Otherwise, we’ll be the intimidating actions of the few, but rather the thinking of many. I see all of the above as a danger Subscribe or submit press releases online at www.thebusinesstimes.com something go down and simply takes credit Here we are in the United States with saying we’ve never seen anything like it in to anyone who chooses freedom and for good news. Gas pricing is subject to an insurrection in Seattle where a certain our lives. And not in a good way. thinking for themselves. The Grand Valley Business Times, a subsidiary of Hall Media Group LLC, is published twice many global factors. Now there are element that abhors guns, borders and 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 — All rights reserved. Copyright © 2020 — All rights reserved. government answers to addressing some of them to keep prices stable for Americans, but our government has none of them in place. The only things it has in place in the enslavement zones off an “autonomous” area of the city using armed guards and holds the citizens who live there hostage as their property. Worse yet, Seattle’s mayor Craig Hall is owner and publisher of the Business Times. Reach him at 424-5133 or publisher@thebusinesstimes.com. ✦ Craig Hall is owner and publisher of the Business Times. Reach him at 424-5133 or publisher@thebusinesstimes. F
I’ve always believed that when the going gets tough, the tough get writing — sometimes about writing.
While there are no doubt prolific columnists who crank out compelling copy as if they’re making sausage, don’t count me among them. I’m more like Sisyphus, the mythical Greek guy condemned to forever roll a boulder up a hill Phil Castle only to have that big rock come tumbling down every time he nears the top.
For me, at least, writing a column is no less a Sisyphean task. I no sooner complete one column than the deadline looms for another. And it’s almost always a struggle. The whole troublesome process invariably starts with the same quandary: What do I write about this time?
Observant readers will recognize the pattern that’s developing. After putting it off for I don’t know how long, I finally wrote a column about avoiding procrastination. Stymied by writer’s block, I wrote a column about writer’s block. It’s not especially surprising, then, I fell back on a familiar strategy in deciding to write a column about writing columns.
This isn’t only about the meandering musings of a frustrated newspaper editor, though. There’s a point to my story, hopefully one of interest to business owners and managers. I’ll get to that.
First, though, let me affirm how grateful I am to work with columnists so willing to share their time and expertise with Business Times readers. The latest issue features no less than seven columns addressing everything from background checks to workplace conflicts to business plans. I like to say the paper offers news, views and advice you can use. It’s the columnists who offer advice and lend different and refreshing voices to the content.
I raised the subject of writing columns in an email exchange with Janet Arrowood, one of those columnists who’s as prolific as she is generous. Janet raised two basic and important points. Columnists must know what they’re writing about and possess an interest in the subject. Fortunately, the columnists who contribute to the paper literally make it their businesses to know what they’re writing about. Moreover, their passion is evident in the way they write.
I’d add four more observations about columns: n Columnists must write to their audiences. I could probably write columns about some of my other interests — scuba diving comes to mind. But as editor of a business journal, it’s both my duty and privilege to provide the best content I can to business owners and managers as well as others in the business community. n Columns must be compelling enough to keep readers reading. Otherwise, what’s the point? If some of them have given up at this point to move on to more interesting pursuits — flossing their teeth perhaps — this column definitely isn’t compelling. n Columns must offer the stuff of revelation. Good columns provide information, share insights and draw conclusions that leave readers scratching their heads over the implications. The best columns leave them slack-jawed in realization. n Personal columns like this one must be just that. Personal. Good columns can’t be written by anyone other than the columnists who do so. They bring to their work not only their distinctive styles, but also their unique experiences and perspectives.
To be clear, I make no guarantees about my columns. It’s up to readers to decide whether or not they’re good. But if a nearly 40-year career in newspaper journalism has taught me anything, I hope it’s the ability to recognize good writing when I read it. And maybe, on occasion, write well myself.
Now, for that point I promised. I don’t know that it’s necessarily jaw-dropping. But I hope it’s worth pondering. Many of the attributes that apply to good columns also apply to the way businesses market their products and services.
While some of this is pretty basic, I believe it bears repeating: n Do you know what you’re doing? Are you an expert? Just as important, are you passionate about your business — so much so it’s evident to customers? n For businesses that serve niche markets, do you write to your audience? That is, do you tailor your marketing to your customers? Are you certain you know who your customers really are? If so, do you connect with them? n Are your marketing messages compelling? Do they engage customers and motivate them to take action? n Do you reveal new information about products and services or highlight comparative advantages of which customers might not have been aware? n Is your marketing unique to your business? Do you bring a distinctive style to your approach? Some of the most successful businesses don’t sell products or services that are that much different or even better. But they do so in a way that’s far different that sets them apart.
See? When the going gets tough and it’s difficult to decide on a topic for a column, the tough get writing. Even it it’s writing columns about writing columns.
More to the point, when the going gets tough for those in business — and the going has been incredibly tough in the midst of a pandemic — I’m grateful the tough get down to business.
Federal Reserve policy more fantasy than sound economics
Economic recovery and expansion don’t depend on the Federal Reserve running monetary policy. This vision more closely resembles fantasy than sound economics. The Federal Open Market Committee statement released on June 10 featured an understandably sober assessment of the economy, along with a pledge to keep the federal funds rate near zero: “The ongoing public health crisis will weigh heavily on economic activity, employment and inflation in the near term and poses considerable risks to the economic outlook over the medium term. In light of these developments, the committee decided to maintain the target range for the federal funds rate at 0 to 0.25 percent. The committee expects to maintain
Raymond Keating this target range until it is confident that the economy has weathered recent events and is on track to achieve its maximum employment and price stability goals.” The Fed also noted that it’s “committed to using its full range of tools to support the U.S. economy in this challenging time, thereby promoting its maximum employment and price stability goals.”
In addition, Fed Chairman Jerome Powell spoke a lot in a press conference about the Fed’s “tools” and “toolkit” to aid the economy and mentioned (though did not completely commit to) the idea the fed funds rate could stay at zero through 2022.
For the record, the Fed has no idea what the economy is going to look like in six months, never mind more than two years from now.
The reality is the Fed can do very little to help the economy in a substantive way. Economic growth comes from the private sector through entrepreneurship and investment. The only way that the Fed contributes to that effort is by maintaining price stability.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Consumer Price Index inflation has been nonexistent over the past three months. In fact, in March, April and May, we experienced falling general prices.
Meanwhile, monetary policy has been unprecedented since late summer of 2008 in that it’s been so loose there’s no historical comparison in U.S. history. Since the pandemic hit the U.S., monetary policy has managed to loosen even more. While the monetary base has skyrocketed, so have bank reserves.
This raises the question I’ve posed for the past dozen years: What does loose money accomplish when the bulk of the expansion in the monetary base winds up in record levels of bank reserves? What’s the point?
The great risk of the past dozen years was this vast expansion in the monetary base would trigger inflation. But that largely didn’t happen because of the historic increase in reserves. That was aided by the fact the Fed was granted the power to pay interest on those excess reserves.
So, the primary result of the Fed’s monetary reaction to the economic and credit mess of 2008 was to increase uncertainty in the economy while also reallocating resources based on political rather than market decisions. That contributed to deepening the Great Recession and undermining growth during the subsequent recovery and expansion period.
Now we’re back. In reaction to the coronavirus and related economic shutdowns, the Fed has increased the monetary base by some $1.8 trillion over the past three months. Bank reserves have jumped by $1.6 trillion. That leaves us, again, with uncertainty and the threat of slower growth. That uncertainty includes wondering if loose money eventually will result, this time, in a diminished dollar and rising inflation.
The price for monetary policy gone awry will be paid for one way or another — or in myriad ways. To think otherwise is to partake in economic fantasy.
Raymond Keating is chief economist for the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council. The nonpartisan, nonprofit advocacy, education and research organization works to protect small business and promote entrepreneurship. For more information, log on to the website at www.sbecouncil.org. F
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n PINNACOL ASSURANCE ONCE AGAIN RANKS AMONG TOP WORKPLACES IN COLORADO Pinnacol Assurance ranks for a fourth consecutive year among the top workplaces in Colorado in an annual list based on the results of employee surveys. “Pinnacol has a people-first culture, and caring for people is at the center of what we do and who we are,” said Barbara Brannen, vice president of human resources for the workers’ compensation insurance carrier based in Denver. “It shows in our customers’ interaction with us, in our interactions with each other and in our culture.” The latest list is based on the results of an employee survey administered by Energage. The anonymous survey measures 15 drivers of engaged workplace cultures, including alignment, connection and execution. Internal surveys indicate Pinnacol employees are happy in their jobs and see where they fit into operations. They also appreciate learning and career development opportunities. For additional information about Pinnacol Assurance, log on to the website located at www.Pinnacol.com. n MESA COUNTY MINERAL LEASE DISTRICT AWARDS $200,000 IN LATEST GRANTS The Mesa County Federal Mineral Lease District has awarded a total of $200,000 in grants. The district board awarded a $150,000 grant to the Grand Junction Police Department for a fire range facility improvement project and a $50,000 grant to the City of Fruita for railroad crossing improvements on 16 Road. The district distributes federal mineral leasing funds to local public entities to support infrastructure, construction and public service projects that address the effects of energy development. Since 2011, the district has awarded more than $8.1 million to entities in Mesa County. For more information, visit the website at www.mesaFML.org. F n WEST STAR AVIATION TEAM IN GRAND JUNCTION COMPLETES GLOBAL EXPRESS INSPECTIONS A team at West Star Aviation in Grand Junction has completed its first 120-, 180- and 240-month inspections on Bombardier Global Express aircraft. The team has grown from one member, Chris Halbert, to 13 and completed 15 Global Express projects. “The continued growth of the Global Express department shows the unique leadership skills and mentorship Chris provides to his team and West Star,” said Jason Cohen, Bombardier and Global Express program manager at Grand Junction. West Star Aviation provides maintenance, repair and overhaul services at facilities at the Grand Junction Regional Airport and in Aspen and Denver as well as in Arizona, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, Tennessee and Texas. The company has been selected for seven consecutive years as the top MRO services provider in a survey conducted for Professional Pilot magazine. For additional information, call (800) 922-2421 or visit www.weststaraviation.com. n STATE DEPARTMENT ISSUES PANDEMIC GUIDANCE TO PROTECT WORKERS IN AG INDUSTRY The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has finalized state guidance to protect workers in the agriculture industry from the potential spread of COVID-19. Guidelines address the use of personal protective equipment, hygiene, equipment cleaning, case reporting and more. “These new expert recommendations provide important direction to our state’s critically important agriculture industry and to those absolutely essential workers along every stop of the food supply chain,” said Kate Greenberg, state agriculture commissioner. The guidance contains recommendations for posting the information at the workplace in a way that’s easily understood by workers. The guidance is available in English and Spanish and also will be available in Arabic, Nepali, simplified Chinese, Somali and Vietnamese. The public health agency in each Colorado county is available to respond to questions and concerns. Contact information is available at https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/cdphe/find-yourlocal-public-health-agency. Business People Almanac NOTEWORTHYSHARE YOUR NEWS The Business Times welcomes submissions for free publication in Business Briefs. Email submissions to phil@thebusinesstimes.com or submit a news release online at the website at www.thebusinesstimes.com. A Grand Junction-based company has received a patent for its computer implemented method for avoiding damages in an excavation area. ProStar received the patent for a method to prevent damage to utilities and the environment during construction, maintenance and groundbreaking activities as well as damages caused by severe conditions, including weather, fires and earthquakes. Page Tucker, chief executive officer and president of ProStar as well as co-inventor of the patented method, said he was pleased to add another patent to the company’s portfolio of intellectual property. “Our cloud and mobile precision mapping solutions are recognized as the most advanced utility mapping system in the world, and another patent issuance is validation that we are leading the industry in terms of development and innovation.” Raymond Tabandeh, a partner with the Lewis Roca Rothgerber Christie law firm, prepared and prosecuted the patent. “It’s always gratifying to play a significant role in the issuance of a patent for a client,” Tabandeh said. “Damages to buried utilities during excavation is a major problem in the U.S. and Canada. And in almost every case when excavation is involved, Chris Halbert Page Tucker Jason Cohen Barbara Brannen damage is caused by lack of Mosquito control district offers tips to help people fight the bite qualified data being available. This patent addresses these
The Grand River Mosquito Control District offers tips to help Control District. “Mosquitoes require water to complete their life concerns.” people fight the bite this summer. cycle. If their water source is eliminated, so are their offspring.” ProStar combines cloud
The district reminds people about the three Ds of controlling Those who are outside when mosquitoes are active should and mobile technologies with insects that are not only pesky, but also spread diseases — drain, wear light-colored and loose-fitting clothing. patented processes to create dress and defend. It’s also important to apply mosquito repellent to clothing and geospatial intelligence software
Mosquitoes can breed in even small amounts of water, bare skin. Repellents containing DEET, picaridin and oil of lemon that helps companies and including water in bird baths, the bottoms of recycling dishes, old eucalyptus are effective. government agencies manage tires and even gutters. The Grand River Mosquito Control District treats more than underground infrastructure.
“Encouraging your neighbors to also eliminate sources 2,500 private properties as well as public open spaces in the Grand For additional information, visit on their own property is critical to a community wide control Valley. For more information, visit www.fightthebitegj.com. www.prostarcorp.com. program,” said Tim Moore, manager of the Grand River Mosquito F
Contributors Page 34 The Business Times June 25-July 8, 2020 Business Briefs News Opinion Business People Trends Business Briefs Almanac 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 CITY OF GRAND JUNCTION ANNOUNCES NEW DIRECTOR OF HR DEPARTMENT Shelley Caskey has been appointed director of the human resources department for the City of Grand Junction. Caskey oversees a department Contributors Opinion Business People June 25 n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce legislative recap Zoom presentation, 8:30 a.m. Almanac of 11 employees involved with the selection, development and retention of the city work force. She joined the city in 2006. n PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER JOINS WESTERN VALLEY FAMILY PRACTICE Dr. Jeanne Haberer has joined Business Briefs Admission free for chamber members, $20 for others. Registration required. www.gjchamber.org n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Thursday Friends networking group, noon June 25 Business Briefs Western Valley Family Practice as a primary care provider. Haberer accepts new patients, including expectant mothers, newborns and children. As a doctor of osteopathy, She holds a bachelor’s of business administration degree with an emphasis in human resources from Bowling Green University. She also holds Professional in Human Resources and Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional Business People Shelley Caskey Almanac Business People and July 2. Reservations required. Call for location. 858-3894 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m., Venue at Fisher’s, 625 24 1/2 Road, Grand Junction. Admission $5 designations. She belongs to the International Public Haberer performs osteopathic manual for chamber members, $10 for others. Reservations Management Association for HR and Western Colorado treatments while also helping patients required. 858-3894 Human Resources. develop holistic coping skills. She has June 29 “I am enthusiastic about taking on this leadership role for the city and truly hope to make a difference,” Caskey Jeanne Haberer additional training in gynecology. Western Valley Family Practice n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Business Builders networking group, noon June 29 and said. “It is an honor to work alongside a committed staff operates offices at 281 N. Plum St. in Fruita as well as July 6, Ale House, 2531 N 12th St., Grand Junction. and with other city departments for the good people of 2237 Redlands Parkway in Grand Junction. For more 858-3894 Grand Junction.” information, call 858-9894 or visit the website located at n Two-part webinar on how to start a business, 1 to
Grand Junction City Manager Greg Caton praised the https://westernvalleyfb.com. 2:30 p.m. June 29 and 30. Admission $55 243-5242 appointment. “She takes on this critical role with years of July 7 experience and the knowledge of our organization. While n MESA COUNTY WORKFORCE CENTER n West Slope Startup Week free online working with Shelley, I have been impressed with her NAMES VETERAN SERVICES OFFICER presentations on a range of topics related to ability to handle complex human resources issues coupled starting and growing businesses in the region, with her strong work ethic.” Anthony Lee has joined the Mesa County Workforce Tuesdays and Thursdays, July 7 to 30. Center in Grand Junction as the veteran services officer. https://westslopestartupweek.com n FRUITA MIDDLE SCHOOL TEACHER Lee assists with disability claims and appeals, n Free informational sessions about real estate RECEIVES AIR FORCE RECOGNITION survivor and dependency benefits, pensions and more. industry careers, 5:30 p.m., Weichert RealtorsUnder the Vetworks program, he helps qualified veterans Heiden Homes Realty, 735 Rood Ave.,
Liz Henrikson, a science teacher at Fruita Middle with specific needs with job training and certifications. Grand Junction. Call to RSVP. 245-7777 School, was named the 2019-20 Air Force Teacher of the Lee served in the Army and worked for 19 years at Upcoming Year for Colorado. the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office. He also brings to his n Mesa County Women's Network luncheon
Henrikson received the award in recognition of her position experience with the Veterans Affairs system. meeting, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 14, DoubleTree consistent promotion of Air Force space programs as well For more information about the Mesa County Workforce by Hilton, 743 Horizon Drive, Grand Junction. as her support for science, technology, engineering and Center, call 248-7560 or visit https://mcwfc.us. Admission $20 for members, $25 for others. math education. F www.mcwn.org n Palisade Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m. July 15, Tammy Tallent Law, Grand Valley residents appointed to state boards 3819 N. River Road. Admission $6 in advance, $8 at the event. 464-7458
Chris Brownlee, staff appraiser Jason Talley of Fruita was appointed to the Community n Business startup workshop, 9 to 11:30 a.m. July 29, and owner of Brownlee Appraisal Corrections Advisory Council for a term expiring Feb. 28, Business Incubator Center, 2591 Legacy Way, Services in Grand Junction, is 2024. Grand Junction. Admission $55. 243-5242 among three Grand Valley residents The council advices and assists the Division of Criminal n Two-part webinar on how to start a business, appointed to state boards. Justice by analyzing, identifying and recommending 9 to 10:30 a.m. Aug. 13 and 14. Admission $55
Brownlee was appointed to policy modifications for community corrections programs. 243-5242 the Colorado Board of Real Estate Sandra Martinez-David of Grand Junction was n Palisade Chamber of Commerce business after Appraisers for a term expiring July 1, appointed to the State Interagency Coordinating Council hours and downtown business crawl, 5:30 to 7 p.m. 2021. Brownlee represents appraisal for a term expiring June 30, 2022. Aug. 19, check in at the chamber office, management companies on the board. He succeeds Joshua Walitt of Grand Chris Brownlee She serves as a representative of the child find department on the council. The council advises the 305 S. Main St., Suite 102. Admission $6 in advance, $8 at the event. 464-7458 Junction, who resigned. Colorado Department of Human Services on implementing n Bookkeeping boot camp, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The seven-member board meets monthly to conduct the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, including Sept. 10, Business Incubator Center. Admission hearings, make policy decisions, consider licensing support and services for infants and toddlers with $75, which includes lunch. 243-5242 matters, review complaints and take disciplinary action disabilities as well as their families. F against real estate appraisers. F
