THE BUSINESS T IMES News JULY 7-20, 2022
VOLUME 29, ISSUE 13
THE DEFINITIVE SOURCE FOR GRAND JUNCTION BUSINESS NEWS SINCE 1994
THEBUSINESSTIMES.COM
Where the Trends 2 wild wings Contributors are ... Opinion 4 Business Briefs 5 Business People Almanac
In this issue n Less upbeat
Colorado business leaders are more shaken than stirred heading into the third quarter, survey results indicate.
n Big PILT check Mesa County will get nearly $3.9 million in the latest payment in lieu of taxes on federal land in the county.
n Manager says renovations add to fun and fare at local sports bar. Page 2
n Women honored A university administrator, medical oncologist and science educator will be honored at an upcoming event.
n Park spending
Mitchell Mazzuca, general manager of the Buffalo Wild Wings in Grand Junction, says he’s pleased with the results of a project that updated the inside and outside of the restaurant.
6
Colorado National Monument visitors contributed nearly $44 million to the area economy in 2021, a report shows.
n Slowing activity
15
Mesa County real estate activity continues to slow as higher interest rates on mortgages affect the market.
n Housing issues
17
An increasing number of employers provide various types of housing assistance, but also must address legal issues.
n Departments Almanac Business Briefs Business People Contributors News Opinion Trends
26-27 24 26 17-21 2-14 22-23 15-16
Business Times photo by Phil Castle
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THE BUSINESS T IMES News The Business Times
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July 7-20, 2022
Trends Where the wild wings are Contributors Opinion M Business Briefs Business People Almanac Manager: Renovations add to the fare and fun bringing patrons to restaurant and sports bar itchell Mazzuca points out the changes at Buffalo Wild Wings in Grand Junction. The exterior features new signs, new awnings and a new black and gray paint scheme. More changes appear inside, among them new furniture and new televisions. That’s 53 new TVs to be exact, including one with a gaping, 98-inch display. An interior wall was removed to open up the dining room, and the bathrooms were updated. Then there’s the giant image of a buffalo head — a bison, actually — made with hundreds of golf balls. So, is Mazzuca, general manager of the restaurant and sports bar, pleased with the renovations? “I am,” he says. “Definitely.”
The $400,000 project refreshed the appearance of a restaurant and bar that opened nearly 10 years ago in a building that previously housed Smuggler’s Brewpub and, before that, a Krispy Kreme franchise. “It’s more of a fresh, modern look now,” says Mazzuca, who’s worked at the location for seven years. Customers have been equally appreciative. He says he hasn’t heard a single discouraging word. “Everybody loves it.” The renovations add to the attractions he says bring in customers. The Buffalostyle chicken wings, to be sure. But also the friendly and festive atmosphere, especially during big games. “It’s not just one thing. It’s all those things combined.” See WINGS page 14
Mitchell Mazzuca, right, general manager of the Buffalo Wild Wings location in Grand Junction, shows off an addition to the decor — a giant image of the head of a bison head with golf balls. A $400,000 renovation project also included new signs and a new black and gray color scheme on the exterior.
STORY AND PHOTOS BY PHIL CASTLE
Survey: Colorado business leaders shaken, not stirred Phil Castle
business leaders from across the state and industry sectors. The latest results Q2 Q3 Colorado business were eye-opening, said State economy 51.9 39.8 leaders are more shaken Rich Wobbekind, senior National economy 40.4 27.7 than stirred heading economist and faculty Industry sales 59.1 46.4 into the third quarter, director of the business Industry profits 55.0 42.2 increasingly concerned research division of the Industry hiring 60.4 48.3 about inflation and the Leeds School of Business at Capital expenditures 56.7 42.1 likelihood of recession the University of Colorado at LBCI 53.9 41.1 and less confident as a Boulder. result. Readings below 50 The Leeds Business reflect more negative Rich Wobbekind Confidence Index dropped 12.8 points to than positive responses. Along with the overall score, 41.1 for the third quarter. That’s the fifth-lowest reading in the individual scores for each of six metrics the index tracks 20-year history of the index, based on the results of surveys of also fell below 50. The Business Times
LBCI READINGS
The overall reading for the fourth quarter fell further to 38, the fourth-lowest level for the index, with five of six metrics declining further. Wobbekind attributed the pessimism to inflation, which is projected to increase 7.7 percent in Colorado this year and 3.3 percent in 2023. Inflation that significant hasn’t occurred in 40 years, so many business leaders haven’t experienced anything like it, he said. “This is a new phenomenon for a lot of people.” Nearly 70 percent of the 219 leaders who responded to the third quarter survey said higher prices have at least moderately affected their businesses. While 56 percent said they expect to increase wages and 52 percent prices, 44 percent said they expect to cut expenses and 30 percent anticipate making fewer purchases. See SURVEY page 12
July 7-20, 2022
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well-rounded $3.9 millionperspective payment to new MesatheCounty role Latest PILT allocation biggest in Colorado
Mesa County will receive nearly as well as New England and Canada. Phil Castle AREA PILT PAYMENTS Business Times $3.9 million The in the latest payment in lieu of Whidden said people who work in taxes on federal lands in the county. information technology aren’t just “geeks,” Delta County $955,024 The payment once again Frank Whiddenis brings what the he butGarfield offer an County important perspective because $3,476,306 single largest to a Colorado county out of they’re familiar with nearly every aspect of considers a well-rounded perspective to his Mesa County $3,870,776 morejob than $44 million so-called PILT operations and how work gets done. They new as Mesa Countyinadministrator. Montrose County $2,848,295 payments in the state for the 2022 fiscal also tend to think about new and potentially Whidden worked Rio Blanco County $628,982 year. Nationwide, the U.S. Department of better ways of doing things in asking and in information Interior will and distribute technology holdsalmost $550 million answering “what if ” questions. “They know the program. including energy development, livestock aunder master’s degree in how to effect change in an organization.” and timber harvests. computer information “This program is grazing Whidden expects to bring that same an important example of approach The 2022 Mesa County, systems. But he also to his payment duties as to administrator. the federal government’s which tops thesaid 2021 holds a doctoral Whidden it’spayment his rolebytoabout help commitment to continue $98,000, is based on nearly 1.56 million degree in applied county commissioners make and then to be a good neighbor acres of federal lands inThe the commissioners county. management and implement decisions. to the communities we in turn The combined acreage of federaloflands decision making and represent the residents the Frank Whidden serve,” said Interior in Mesaand County thirdwill, for he a said. Colorado worked for more than county expressistheir “We SecretaryWhidden Deb Haaland. only Moffat County with 20 years as a minister. has county work forbehind the people.” “The nearly $550 million 1.67 Whidden million acres worked for large and small organizations said heand alsoGunnison considers County himself being distributed will with more than 1.63 million acres. in both the private and public sectors. a liaison between the commissioners and Deb Haaland local on governments Thestaff, PILT higher isfor Whidden expectshelp to draw all of his county and payment one of theispriorities to carry out vital services, such asMesa firefighting and Mesa County thanfeel other experiences in helping County make sure employees valued. counties, Whidden police protection,make construction of public schools though, because its to larger population. commissioners and carry out decisions. said he hopes notofonly improve morale, and roads and serve operations.” will receive payment of Valuing staff and andrescue making the county Moffat but alsoCounty take steps that willa make Mesa The PILTof program County will receive an employer choice is compensates among the $980,000. County an Gunnison organization for which people local government million. priorities, Whidden entities said. Soforis revenues planning almost want to$1.8 work. from nontaxable federal lands, including With nearly million acres of federal that results in sustainable funding and Meanwhile,1.2Whidden expects the those administered Bureaubasis. of Land lands, County willand receive the balanced budgets onbya the long-term county Garfield to continue policies initiatives Management, Fish Mesa and Wildlife largestlocal PILTbusiness paymentand in economic Colorado Meanwhile, CountyService, will second that support Forest Service and National Parkpromote Service.a of almost $3.5There million. continue to pursue efforts that development. are additional steps Montrose County will receive Payments are based on the acreage friendly business environment and that can be taken to make it easier for more local $2.8 million in payment in lieu of of federaldevelopment, land and population within than economic Whidden said. businesses to sell products and services to on nearly 1 million acres of federal a county. Since the program began as in taxes Whidden officially began working the county, he added. 1977, the Departmentatofthe thebeginning Interior has county administrator of land.Mesa County will keep working with distributed $10.8 havingentities, almost organizations 1.5 million the year. Healmost succeeds Tom billion Fisher, to whostates was otherDespite government of federalonlands, the an lessenvironment populated as well as as the District of Columbia, Guam, acres hired county manager in Summit and institutions fostering Rio will businesses receive almost Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands. County, Utah. that Blanco supportsCounty existing and Funding forjoined the payments Whidden Mesa comes Countyfrom in $629,000. attracts new businesses, he said. Delta County receive morebe thana the more 2011 than $12.1 billion in annual revenue August as information technology Whidden saidwillthere could for more than 400,000 acres. the Department of 2014, the Interior collects from $955,000 director. In April he became deputy opportunities to encourage the additional F commercial activities on for federalresource lands, development of businesses county administrator that provide management in a staffing reorganization services to the agricultural industry as well that eliminated four director positions. as promote Mesa County as a distribution Before joining Mesa County, center for the region. Whidden worked for a company providing The important thing is to consider information technology services to issues from a well-rounded perspective, colleges and universities. In that role, he Whidden said. “We won’t be myopic as we managed systems andof services for look atseeks things.” TheITU.S. Bureau Land Management public comments on the institutions in Alabama, Arizona, Illinois ✦ for its Grand preparation of a supplemental environmental impact statement
Agency seeks public comments on field office management plans
Junction and Colorado River Valley field office resource management plans. “Public participation was key to the development of the BLM’s original resource management plans and will be for this supplement as well,” said Greg Larson, manager of the BLM Upper Colorado River District. “This new analysis will ensure that our resource management plan will best serve our multiple use mission for the future.” The BLM will complete the analysis in response to a court ruling on the Colorado River Valley plan and consider an expanded range of alternatives for oil and natural gas Greg Larson development on lands managed by the two field offices. The BLM also will analyze climate effects, including greenhouse gas emissions. Decisions in both plans unrelated to fluid minerals management will remain in affect as the supplemental environmental impact statement is prepared. The public may submit comments on the BLM planning website located at https://go.usa.gov/xtrgf. The BLM also will host virtual public meetings and announce the scheduled on the website. F
The Business Times
July 7-20, 2022
West Slope trio latest women of distinction
A university executive, medical oncologist and science educator will be honored at an upcoming event for their professional and personal contributions in Western Colorado. Morgan Bridge, JoAnne Virgilio and Heidi Ragsdale were named Western Slope Women of Distinction for 2022. Girl Scouts of Colorado will honor them at benefit breakfast set for 7:30 a.m. Nov. 4 at the Grand Junction Convention Center. Proceeds from the event will support Girl Scout leadership development programs. “I am honored to welcome this year’s class of Women Morgan Bridge of Distinction,” said Leanna Clark, chief executive officer of Girl Scouts of Colorado. “They are strong, bold, empowered women who represent the leadership and excellence that powers today’s world, and they are outstanding role models for our girls.” Over the years, the program has honored more than 500 leaders who contribute to their communities and serve as role models. Bridge is associate vice president of academic affairs at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction. She’s also a business professor who teaches courses in economics and JoAnne Virgilio finance and served as head of the business department at CMU. Since 2015, Bridge has worked with students through the Daniels Fund Ethics Initiative Collegiate Program. Dr. Virgilio serves as a medical oncologist at Community Hospital’s Grand Valley Oncology. She founded the Grand Junction cancer treatment facility in 2014 and served as medical director until 2021. Virgilio has practiced oncology for more than 30 years. She also participates in the Colorado Discover Ability Special Olympics programs. A former middle school science teacher, Ragsdale runs Heidi Ragsdale STEM is My Future in Grand Junction, providing professional development for teachers on geographic information systems and problem-based learning. She’s a certified geospatial educator, National Geographic certified educator and mentor and teacher advisory council member with National Geographic. She’s also a space exploration educator crew Orion member with Space Center Houston and Space Foundation teacher liaison. F
FOR YOUR INFORMATION For tickets or more information about the Women of Distinction breakfast in Grand Junction, visit www.girlscoutsofcolorado.org or contact Martha Johnson at martha.johnson@gscolorado.org.
City using $400,000 grant to fund public improvements at Dos Rios The City of Grand Junction will use a $400,000 grant to fund public improvements at the Riverfront at Dos Rios development. The grant from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) will fund a splash park and beach area as part of a destination playground. “Dos Rios is a great example of the type of transformation we are seeing across our community that is driven by the city and its private partners,” said Grand Junction Mayor Anna Stout. “We are grateful for DOLA’s strong support of this public amenity that further leverages investments the city has already made at Dos Rios and the larger riverfront revitalization.” The 40-acre Riverfront at Dos Rios development will combine nearly 16 acres of parks and open space with 10 acres of
light industrial and commercial use and another 10 acres of mixed uses. Streets, curbs, gutters, sidewalks and utilities have been installed, as has a bike playground. The development offers access to the Colorado River as well as a trail system, greenspace and downtown district. Stout said the area has undergone a dramatic transformation over the years. “I grew up on Orchard Mesa, and we drove across that junkyard every time we came into town. We plugged our noses when we crossed the Fifth Street bridge because of the rendering plant and we knew, even as children, that the river divided the good Grand Junction from where we lived. I am thrilled now that this is the site that unites and welcomes our whole community.” F
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July 7-20, 2022
Monument visitors added $43.6 million to economy Visitors to the Colorado National The report took into MONUMENTAL SPENDING account the number of Monument near Grand Junction contributed $43.6 million to the area economy in 2021, visitors to National Park Visitor spending $34.9 million sites and estimated the according to the latest results of an annual Jobs 453 amount of money they report issued by the National Park Service. Labor income $13.7 million The economic effects of visits to national spent in communities Value added $23.7 million parks, monuments and other National Park within 60 miles. The report Economic output $43.6 million Service sites totaled $856 million in Colorado also calculated the number of jobs visitor spending and $42.5 billion in the United States. “As we continue to welcome families to our parks and supported and the indirect and induced effects of visitor public lands across the country, the Interior Department is spending that add to economic contributions. committed to making investments in our lands and waters The Colorado National Monument attracted nearly that will support tens of thousands of jobs, safeguard the 500,000 recreation visits in 2021. Visitors spent an estimated environment and help ensure that national parks and public total of $34.9 million in Grand Junction, Fruita and other lands are ready to meet the challenges of climate change and gateway communities. That spending in turn supported 453 increased visitation,” said Interior Secretary Deb Haaland. jobs, $13.7 million in labor income, $23.7 million in value-
added and a total of $43.6 million in economic output. Lodging accounted for more than a third of visitor spending at $11.5 million. Visitors spent another $6.8 million at restaurants, $6.1 million for gasoline and $2.4 million for groceries. Retail spending totaled $3.1 million. Visitor spending supported 121 jobs in the lodging industry, a number nearly matched by employment related to secondary effects. Spending also supported 93 jobs in restaurants and 35 jobs in retail. Economic output from visitor spending was greatest at $16.5 million for secondary effects, followed by $11.5 million for the lodging sector and $6.8 million for restaurants Across Colorado, a total of 7.8 million visits to National Park Service sites were reported in 2021 and accounted for $856 million in economic output. See VISITORS page 10
Lineup set for West Slope Startup Week
A total of nearly 50 presentations, workshops and other events have been scheduled as part of West Slope Startup Week. The free regional business conference is set for July 11 to 15 with virtual events throughout rural Colorado as well as in-person events in Grand Junction. The schedule and additional information about the 2022 West Slope Startup Week is available online by logging on to the website at https://westslopestartupweek.com. The conference will offer participants professional business development and continued education as well as networking and opportunities to pitch for funding. The events will offer information to everyone from serial entrepreneurs looking to launch their next projects to those considering starting businesses. Business owners and managers — including those in retail and restaurants — will learn about finance, human resources, marketing and other topics. West Slope Startup Week will feature lectures and workshops related to seven tracks: capital, communications, makers, people and technology. What are billed as toolbox sessions will address fundamental topics and skills building. A fun track will offer social events and outdoor activities. A kickoff event set for 9 to 10 a.m. July 11, will feature Taylor Grande, director of partnerships and ecosystem development at Startup Colorado, and Steve Jozefczyk, interim executive director of the Grand Junction Economic Partnership. They will discuss innovation and opportunities as well as the challenges of entrepreneurship in Western Colorado. The Greater Colorado Pitch Series will be held in conjunction with West Slope Startup Week with the finals set for noon to 3 p.m. July 12 at the Avalon Theater in downtown Grand Junction. Kerry Siggins, chief executive officer of the StoneAge Tools waterblasting equipment manufacturer based in Durango, is scheduled to deliver the keynote presentation from 1 to 2 p.m. July 15. F
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Community Hospital opens pediatric therapy clinic Community Hospital has opened a individual treatment plans FOR YOUR INFORMATION for children with special pediatric therapy clinic in Grand Junction. needs. Each therapist Grand Valley Pediatric Therapy Grand Valley Pediatric Therapy establishes goals and provides skilled pediatric therapy services, is located at 715 Horizon Drive, including occupational therapy, physical treatment plans based on Suite 200, in Grand Junction. the specific needs of a child therapy and speech therapy. For additional information, call and his or her family. “Our pediatric therapists truly love 644-3860 or visit the website at Occupational therapists helping children and young adults, https://yourcommunityhospital.com. help children achieve goals offering treatment for a wide variety of related to fine motor skills, diagnoses and special needs,” said Kyle Gardner, director of Community Hospital Therapy Works. sensory processing, activities of daily living, executive “Together, we are committed to providing comprehensive, functioning and feeding to name a few. Children could multi-disciplinary care in an environment where children benefit from occupational therapy to address difficulties can achieve their goals and reach their full potential,” related to using utensils, following directions or transitions between activities. Gardner added. Therapists at Grand Valley Pediatric Therapy create Pediatric physical therapists help children develop
and improve mobility so they safely participate in activities at home, in the classroom, on the playground and in the community. Therapists address skills that help children take part in such important movement activities as crawling, walking, running and playing games. In addition, physical therapists teach children how to use such mobility aids as wheelchairs, walkers, crutches and other supports in various environments. Speech language pathologists help children achieve goals related to communication. Impaired communication can affect every aspect of a child’s life. In addition to communication, a speech language pathologist also helps infants and children with feeding, suckling and swallowing difficulties related to oral motor or oropharyngeal disorders. F
District 51 students earn college credits through programs
Students in Mesa County School District 51 earned a total of more than 8,000 credits from Colorado Mesa University and Western Colorado Community College during the 2021-2022 school year. Cheryl Taylor, director of career and college readiness at School District 51, said concurrent enrollment allows high school students to receive credit for college level courses in a variety of fields. Since the district covers the cost of tuition, students earn credits without taking on a financial burden. “Our students who take concurrent enrollment classes graduate with a head start on their college career and graduate with the confidence that they are prepared for college-level work,” Taylor said. Brigitte Sundermann, vice president of community college affairs at Colorado Mesa University, agreed. “We have high school students that are bused to our (WCCC) campus on a daily basis. They take courses that count toward a degree or certificate — all at no cost to them. And when they graduate, they not only have college credit, but they also have industry credentials.” More than 100 camps are offered during the summer, Sundermann said. “Students can be a chef one week and a mechanic the next. We’re doing everything we can to get students interested early and help them find their career of choice.” For the 2021-22 school year, 812 District 51 students completed a total of 8,053 college credit hours. High school students interested in concurrent enrollment are encouraged to talk with their school counselors or visit the WCCC website. Adults interested in taking courses at WCCC or earning a degree or certificate can now do so at a lower cost through an affordability initiative. Beginning with the fall 2022 semester, tuition and fees for WCCC career and technical education courses will be reduced by nearly 40 percent to $197 per credit hour. More information is available from the website located at www.coloradomesa.edu/wccc/tuition. F
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Visitors
Continued from page 6 Visitors to National Park Service sites in Colorado spent an estimated $560 million in nearby communities. That spending supported 7,570 jobs, $303 million in labor income and $505 million in value added. Lodging accounted for $188 million of visitor spending, followed by $109 million for restaurants, $72.7 million for gasoline and $42.3 million for groceries. Retail spending totaled $58.7 million. While there are 17 National Park Service sites in Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park near Estes Park accounted for more than half of the visits and visitor spending in the state. The 4.4 million visitors to Rocky Mountain National Park in 2021 spent a total of $323 million in gateway communities. That spending supported a total of 4,420 jobs, $183 million in labor income, $303 million in value added and $513 million in economic output. Nationwide, National Park Service sites attracted nearly 300 million visitors who spent a total of $20.5 billion in 2021. Of the 322,600 jobs supported by visitor spending, 268,900 were located in gateway communities. Visitor spending also supported $14.6 billion in labor income and $24.3 billion in value added. The lodging sector experienced the greatest direct effects with $7 billion of economic output. The restaurant sector ranked second with $4.2 billion in economic output. The National Park Service launched a socioeconomic monitoring project in 2022 to survey visitors in 24 parks each year for the next 10 yeras or more. The method was used in Zion National Park in southwest Utah in 2021. “The results showed that our previous estimates of profiles of average visitors underestimated the time they spend in the park and gateway communities, and we underestimated the amount of money they spent during their trips to the park,” said Chuck Sams, director of the National Park Service. “The new survey information will enable park managers to further improve the visitor experience and guide how to reach and engage with people who have yet to visit a national park.” F
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Survey
Continued from page 2 Almost 23 percent of respondents said they believe the United States is already in a recession, 30 percent said they expect the economy to slip into recession in the second half of this year and 27 percent in the first half of next year. Expectations for the Colorado economy fell 12.1 points between the second and third quarters to 39.8. A total of 49.1 percent of business leaders who responded to the third quarter survey predicted moderate to strong decreases in the economy, 37.5 percent expected no change and a total of 13.5 percent anticipated moderate or strong increases. Expectations for the national economy were even worse, falling 12.7 points to 27.7. The gap between expectations for the state and national economies is at its widest point ever, Wobbekind said. A total of 76.4 percent of survey respondents predicted moderate to strong decreases in the national economy, 19 percent anticipated no change and 4.6 percent expected a moderate increase. Hiring expectations fell 12.1 points, but at 48.3 was the highest reading among the six metrics. While 33.8 percent of respondents expected moderate to strong decreases in hiring, 31 percent expected moderate to strong increases and another 35.2 percent anticipated no change. Sales expectations dropped 12.7 points to 46.4. While 42.6 percent of respondents predicted moderate to strong decreases in sales, 31 percent expected moderate to strong increases and another 26.4 percent anticipated no change. Expectations for profits fell 12.8 points to 42.2 with 50 percent of respondents expecting moderate to strong decreases, 24.6 percent moderate to strong increases and 25.5 percent no change. Expectations for capital expenditures 14.6 points to 42.1 with 42.1 percent of respondents anticipating moderate to strong decreases, 20.4 percent moderate to strong increases and 37.5 percent no change. Still, some economic indicators offer encouragement, Wobbekind said. Personal income in Colorado rose eight-tenths of a percent in the first quarter of 2022 compared to the first quarter of 2021. Per capita personal income rose three-tenths of a percent on a year-over-year basis. The state ranked second nationally for both indicators, he said. Colorado employment also has rebounded since the COVID-19 pandemic. As of May, the latest month for which estimates are available, nonfarm payrolls had increased 1.2 percent above the prepandemic peak. Payrolls have grown 4.6 percent over the past year. In Mesa County, the seasonally unadjusted unemployment rate edged down a tenth of a point between April and May to 3.3 percent. Over the past year, Mesa County payrolls have increased 3,382, a gain of nearly 4.7 percent, to 75,721. The ranks of the unemployed fell 1,927 to 2,544. The labor force grew 1,455 to 78,265. F
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Colorado awarded for its scenic byways efforts Colorado has received national recognition for its efforts to publicize and improve its scenic and historic byways program. The state received awards from the National Scenic Byway Foundation for communications and viewshed improvements. “Our scenic and historic byways program is one of our prized assets,” said Shoshana Lew, executive director of the Colorado Department of Transportation. “To be recognized nationally, not just once but twice in one year for our
program, is an honor we’re very proud of.” The communications award honored an Instagram campaign highlighting the history, landscapes and wildlife along each of the 26 scenic and historic Colorado byways. For seven months, a different Colorado byway was showcased weekly in different regions across the state. The viewshed improvement award honored the Silver Thread National Scenic Byway, which traverses the central San Juan Mountains along Lake San Cristobal near Lake City. A community driven purchase of the peninsula and
adjacent islands on the shoreline enhances the visitor’s experience on the byway. The department established the scenic and historic byways program in 1989. It supports 26 byways, including 13 America’s Byways, 10 national forest scenic byways and two U.S. Bureau of Land Management backcountry byways. The statewide system is comprised of nearly 2,600 miles of roadway through 48 of Colorado’s 64 counties. For more information, visit www.codot.gov/travel/colorado-byways. F
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Wings
Continued from page 2 The project was completed in midJune after less than two weeks of work, Mazzuca says. Most of the work occurred between midnight and 10 a.m. so the restaurant and bar could remain open. With about 5,500 square feet of space as well as a patio, Buffalo Wild Wings can seat up to 375 people. Founded in 1982, Buffalo Wild Wings has grown into one of the largest sports bar brands in the United States. Part of the Inspire Brands family of restaurants, Buffalo Wild Wings operates a total of more than 1,200 restaurants in 10 countries. Not counting 2020 and the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions, the Grand Junction location has performed well over the past decade, Mazzuca says. Sales were up on a year-over-year basis 13 percent in 2019 and 42 percent in 2021 after bouncing back from the pandenic, he says. Sales are up 23 percent so far in 2022, he says. Mazzuca attributes part of that success to marketing and partnerships in which the operation participates. Buffalo Wild Wings joins in fund-raisers for a variety of local sports teams. Buffalo Wild Wings also offers an appreciation program for teachers working for Mesa County School District 51, he says. With a variety of traditional and boneless wings as well as burgers, sandwiches and salads on the menu, the fare attracts customers, he says. But so does the friendly and fun atmosphere, he says. That’s especially evident during big sports events — the recent Stanley Cup Finals, for example, in which the Colorado Avalanche beat the Tampa Bay Lightning in six games. “People know they can come in here and have a good time,” Mazzuca says. F
FOR YOUR INFORMATION Buffalo Wild Wings is located at 2412 U.S. Highway 50 in Grand Junction and open from 11 a.m. to midnight Monday through Thursday and Sunday and 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday. For more information, call 242-3151 or visit www.buffalowildwings.com.
News Trends Contributors Real estate sales slow Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac
July 7-20, 2022
The Business Times
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INDICATORS AT A GLANCE
n Business filings
t New business filings in Colorado, 43,780 in the first quarter, down 2.1 percent from the first quarter of 2021.
n Confidence
t Consumer Confidence Index 98.7 for June, down 4.5. t Leeds Business Confidence Index for Colorado, 41.1 for the third quarter, down 12.8. t National Federation of Independent Business Small Business Optimism Index 93.01 for May, down 0.1.
n Foreclosures s Foreclosure filings in Mesa County, 18 in June, up from 3 in June 2021. n Foreclosure sales in Mesa County, 1 in June, unchanged from 1 in May 2021.
n Indexes
t Conference Board Employment Trends Index, 119.77 for May, down 0.83. t Conference Board Leading Economic Index 118.3 for May, down 0.4%. t Institute for Supply Management Purchasing Managers Index for manufacturing, 53% for June, down 3.1%.
n Lodging
s Lodging tax collections in Grand Junction, $367,395 for May, up 26.7% from May 2021.
n Real estate
t Real estate transactions in Mesa County, 498 in June, down 26.3% from June 2021. t Dollar volume of real estate transactions in Mesa County, $211 million in June, down 17.3% from June 2021.
n Sales
s Sales and use tax collections in Grand Junction, $6.2 million for May, up 7% from May 2021. s Sales and use tax collections in Mesa County, $4.5 million for May, up 5% from May 2021.
n Unemployment t Mesa County — 3.3% for May, down 0.1. t Colorado — 3.5% for May, down 0.1. n United States — 3.6% for May, unchanged.
Interest rates exerting effects, but Mesa County market strong overall Phil Castle
The Business Times
Real estate activity continues to slow in Mesa County even as interest rates on mortages rise and concerns mount over the possibility of a recession. The number of transactions and combined dollar volume of those deals fell in June behind the record-breaking pace set last year. Still, big transactions and higher prices pushed dollar volume for the first half of 2022 above that for the same span in 2021. The market remains strong overall, said Annette Young, administrative coordinator at Heritage Title Co. in Grand Junction. “We can still have a very good year.” Annette Young Robert Bray, chief executive officer of Bray & Co. Real Estate in Grand Junction, said higher interest rates have exerted a more pronounced effect, although rates remain relatively low historically. The risk of a recession also has prompted some people to reconsider real estate purchases. But homes priced and marketed right still sell quickly, Bray said. Young said 498 real estate transactions worth a total of $211 million were reported Robert Bray in Mesa County in June. Compared to the same month last year, transactions dropped 26.3 percent and dollar volume declined 17.3 percent. Just 19 transactions accounted for a total of $32 million in dollar volume, Young said. They included the sale of the Super 8 hotel in Grand Junction for $4 million and the former City Market building in downtown Grand Junction for $3.3 million. A Dairy Queen in Fruita sold for $2.1 million. Through the first half of 2022, 2,693 transactions worth a combined $1.15 billion were reported, Young said. Compared to the first half of 2021, transactions fell 12 percent. But dollar volume increased 8.3 percent. While 110 transactions over $1 million each accounted for a total of $212 million in dollar volume for the first half of 2022,
there were 64 transactions over $1 million worth a total of $138 million during the first half of 2021. According to numbers Bray & Co. Real Estate tracks for the residential market in Mesa County, 320 transactions worth a collective $141.7 million were reported in June. Compared to the same month last year, transactions dropped 26.4 percent and dollar volume fell 12.2 percent. Bray said the comparison isn’t fair given what was a frenzy in real estate activity last year as well as the difference in interest rates. Through the first half of 2022, 1,761 residential real estate transactions worth a total of nearly $744.2 million were reported. Compared to the first half of 2021, transactions fell 13.6 percent, but dollar volume increased 2.4 percent. Fewer sales and a seasonal increase bolstered residential inventory, Bray said. As of the end of June, there were 480 active listings in Mesa County. That’s an increase of 63.8 percent over active listings at the end of June last year. Prices continue to rise. The median price of homes sold during the first half of 2022 rose 18.8 percent to $385,000. The increase was even more pronounced between June 2021 and June 2022 — 24 percent to $411,750. Bray said the real estate market could soften as higher interest rates increase monthly mortgage payments, but he remains mostly optimistic. Meanwhile, property foreclosure filings continue to increase in Mesa County, although not property foreclosure sales. Young said 18 foreclosure filings and one sale were reported in June. That compares to three filings and one sale for the same month last year. Through the first half of 2022, 137 filings and eight sales were reported, she said. For the first half of 2021, 11 filings and 13 sales were reported. Young said filings have increased since the forbearance imposed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic ended. But a lot of those filings are withdrawn, she said, as owners with equity sell before the foreclosure process is completed. Through the first half of 2022, there were no resales of foreclosed properties in Mesa County. Young considers resales at 10 percent or less of all transactions indicative of a healthy market. F
Grand Junction tax collections trend upward
Tax collections, a measure of retail sales and lodging activity, continue to increase in Grand Junction The City of Grand Junction reported a 7 percent increased in combined sales and use tax collections in May compared to the same month last year. Lodging tax collections rose 27.6 percent on a year-over-year basis. May collections reflect April activity. June reports weren’t available before press deadline. The city collected more than $5.2 million in sales taxes and more than $107,000 in use taxes in May. Sales tax collections increased 6.9 percent. Use tax collections, a smaller and more volatile revenue source, rose 31.5 percent. The city received another $900,000 as its share of sales taxes collected by Mesa County and distributed back to municipalities in the county. The city also collected a total of more than $1 million in sales and use taxes allocated to public safety and first responders. Through the first five months of 2022, the city collected a total of more than $30.5 million in sales and use taxes. Sales tax collections increased 11.9 percent compared to the same span in 2021. Use tax collections rose 65.9 percent. The city received more than $4.1 million in sales tax collections
GRAND JUNCTION TAX COLLECTIONS
Sales tax Use tax Lodging tax
May 2022 $5,225,502 $107,113 $367,395
May 2021 $4,889,977 $81,474 $289,970
Change 6.9% 31.5% 26.7%
from Mesa County and collected a total of more than $5.1 million in sales taxes earmarked for public safety and first responders. The city collected more than $367,000 in lodging taxes in May, a 26.7 percent increase over the same month last year. Through the first five months of 2022, the city collected nearly $1.5 million in lodging taxes. That’s a 58.4 percent gain over the same span in 2021. Under a measure city voters approved in 2019 to double the lodging tax to 6 percent, the city divides revenues between Visit Grand Junction, the tourism and destination marketing organization, and Grand Junction Regional Air Alliance and Greater Grand Junction Sports Commission. F
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July 7-20, 2022
Consumer Confidence Index slips as concerns mount A measure of consumer confidence continues to retreat as concerns mount over rising gasoline and food prices. The Conference Board reported its Consumer Confidence Index fell 4.5 points between May and June to 98.7. While a component of the index assessing current business and labor conditions edged down, a component tracking expectations dropped more Lynn Franco than seven points to its lowest level in more than nine years. “Consumers’ grimmer outlook was driven by increasing concerns about inflation, in particular rising gas and food prices,” said Lynn Franco, senior director of economic indicators at the Conference Board. “Expectations have now
fallen well below a reading of 80, suggesting weaker growth in the second half of 2022 as well as growing risk of recession by yearend.” The Conference Board bases the index on the results of monthly household surveys. Economists monitor the index because consumer spending accounts for more than two-thirds of economic activity. For June, less upbeat assessments of current conditions pulled the present situation component of index down three-tenths of a point to 147.1. The proportion of consumers responding to the survey upon which the June index was based who described business conditions as “good” slipped two-tenths of a point to 19.6 percent. The share of those who said conditions were “bad” rose 1.3 points to 23 percent. The proportion of consumers who said jobs were
“plentiful” fell six-tenths of a point to 51.3 percent. The share of those who said jobs are “hard to get” fell more — eight-tenths of a point to 11.6 percent. Less optimistic outlooks pulled the expectations component of the index down 7.3 points to 66.4. That’s the lowest reading since the index stood at 63.7 in March 2013. The share of consumers who said they expect business conditions to improve over the next six months fell 1.7 points to 14.7 percent. The proportion of those who said they anticipated worsening conditions rose 3.1 points to 29.5 percent. The share of consumers who said they expect more jobs to become available fell 1.2 points to 16.3 percent. The proportion of those anticipating fewer jobs rose 2.5 points to 22 percent. F
Trends Contributors Opinion solutions Housing Business Briefs Business People Almanac
July 7-20, 2022
The Business Times
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COMING ATTRACTIONS
n The Business Incubator Center has scheduled presentations on startups, online sales and planning. Upcoming sessions of a business startup workshop are set for 2 to 4 p.m. July 7 at the center, 2591 Legacy Way in Grand Junction, and 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Aug. 4 at the FWorks coworking space, 325 E. Aspen Ave. in Fruita. The workshop will offer an overview of how to start a business, including licensing requirements, trade name searches and financing options. Admission is $55. A presentation on cash flows for small business startups is set for noon to 1 p.m. July 19. A presentation on planning for small business startups is set for noon to 1 p.m. July 21. Both presentations will be offered at the center in Grand Junction. A free webinar on selling online with e-commerce tools is scheduled for 10 to 11 a.m. July 20. The next session of the Leading Edge business planning and management course is scheduled for 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays Aug. 31 to Nov. 16 at the center. The course will offer a combination of classroom instruction, interactive exercises and conversations with subject matter experts to teach participants how to start and grow businesses. Participants will complete a business plan or strategy and test their models for financial viability. Tuition is $275. A bookkeeping boot camp is set for 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 29 at the center. Participants will learn how to set up and track business accounting records and gain more control over their businesses. Admission is $75, which includes lunch. For more information about upcoming events, programs and services at the Business Incubator Center, call 243-5242 or log on to http://gjincubator.org. n Upcoming meetings of the Coffee Club networking group are set for 9 to 10 a.m. July 15 and Aug. 19 at the FWorks coworking space. There’s no admission to attend. n The Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce has scheduled the kickoff event for its Veterans in Business group. The event is set for 5:30 to 7 p.m. July 19 at Axeology, 2487 Industrial Blvd., Unit 6, in Grand Junction. Admission is $15. The group will provide support, resources and referrals to veteran entrepreneurs and those in the work force. The Fruita chamber has scheduled a separate presentation on business finances for noon to 1 p.m. July 20 at FWorks. For more information about upcoming chamber events, call 858-3894 or log on to https://fruitachamber.org. n A Grand Valley BizMix networking event is set for 5:30 to 7 p.m. July 26 at the Bank of Colorado location at 2452 Patterson Road in Grand Junction. The event is open to members of the Grand Junction, Palisade and Western Colorado Latino chambers of commerce and Young Professionals of Mesa County.
Employers offer help in varied ways, but legal issues can arise As the cost of housing skyrockets, an increasing number of employers provide employee housing or housing subsidies. According to the Urban Institute, available and affordable housing helps employers attract and retain employees and makes communities more attractive to new companies and those seeking to relocate. In addition, affordable housing increases employee productivity and job satisfaction. Housing assistance takes different forms. Some employers provide Dean mortgage or rent assistance. But in Harris Western Colorado, many employers offer traditional employee housing in employer owned properties. This is especially common in communities with high costs of living or geographically remote operations and for recreational and agricultural employers. In 2020, Aspen voters approved a $94.3 million bond issue that earmarked nearly half to housing for teachers. At the end of 2021, the Aspen School District housed 69 employees, or 26 percent of its staff. The district aims to provide low-cost housing to 54 percent of its employees by 2023. Legal issues arise when providing housing to employees, including two significant issues I’d like to address. First, an employer may provide housing to employees for either the employee’s or employer’s benefit. Many employers want to include the value of the provided housing in the employee’s wages. The Fair Labor Standards Act allows employers to take a credit toward an employee’s wages for the fair market value of the provided housing. But the FLSA requires that all five of the following elements are met: n The lodging is regularly provided by the employer or similar employers. n The employee voluntarily accepts the lodging. n The lodging is furnished in compliance with applicable federal, state and local laws. n The lodging is provided primarily for the benefit of the employee rather than the employer. n The employer maintains accurate records of the costs incurred in furnishing the lodging. The two elements usually in question are whether the employee accepts the housing voluntarily and whether the housing benefits the employee or employer. An employer who offers optional employee housing to employees who’d have difficulty obtaining affordable housing can usually take credit toward legally required wages for the fair market value of the housing. But an employer who requires an employee to live on the employer’s premises to secure or oversee the premises or be available to provide services on the premises at short notice provides the housing for the employer’s benefit. The employer must pay the full wage owed the employee. In addition, this credit is not available toward the salary required for an exempt employee. The employer may provide lodging as part of the exempt employee’s total compensation, but it still must pay the exempt employee the minimum cash salary required by federal and Colorado wage laws. Another issue that arises is the characterization of
Many employers enter into property leases with employees. But what happens when the employee separates from employment? The lease is an arrangement separate from the employment relationship.
the housing arrangement. Under Colorado property laws, tenants have greater rights than “licensees” — people whom the property owner gives limited permission to use or occupy a property. Many employers enter into property leases with employees. But what happens when the employee separates from employment? The lease is an arrangement separate from the employment relationship. And leases are like marriages. It is much easier to form them than dissolve them. The employer must follow all the legal requirements for an eviction if the employee doesn’t leave the housing voluntarily. Moreover, the employee may remain in the housing until a court issues — and the property owner executes — an eviction order. Colorado law allows an easier alternative for employers who offer housing to their employees. Under Colorado Revised Statute 8-4-123 (Colorado Wage Act), an employer may enter into a license agreement for the employee to occupy the premises rather than a residential lease when it provides housing as part of the employee’s compensation so long as the agreement is in writing and includes several basic elements outlined in the statute. An employer may terminate the license simply by giving the occupant three days’ notice. If the occupant doesn’t vacate the premises, the employer may call the county sheriff to remove the occupants upon showing the sheriff or sheriff’s deputy both the agreement and written notice the employer served the occupant. The employer avoids the lengthy eviction process, and the property is available for a new employee. This license to occupy is available only when the employer provides housing as part of the employee’s compensation and the housing arrangement is part of the employment relationship. An employer who provides low-cost housing to employees without including the fair market value of the housing or reduction in cost of the housing in the employee’s compensation may not take advantage of the license to occupy. Employer-provided housing raises multiple legal issues. Employers who wish to provide employee housing should consult an attorney before establishing this relationship with employees or entering into lease or license agreements with employees. The Employers Council provides counsel on these matters to its members as part of membership or at reduced rates. Dean Harris is the Western Slope Area managing attorney for the Employers Council. The Employers Council counsels, represents and trains member employers in all phases of employment relationships. Contact Harris at dharris@employerscouncil.org or (970) 852-0190. F
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July 7-20, 2022
Balance life and work to enjoy your success Tremendous time, energy and effort go into running a business. With everything there is to do, it’s easy for those who own a business to sacrifice many — if not all — aspects of their personal lives in the pursuit of success. Your business is only one aspect of your life. You also have important relationships with family and friends as well as your health, passions, hobbies and interests. When you choose or unconsciously allow yourself to become consumed by business and neglect these other aspects of your life, your well-being and happiness fade away. There’s no real benefit to working yourself into the ground. When you Marcus become fatigued, your business suffers Straub because you don’t possess the clarity, energy and composure necessary to be the caliber of leader required to create the level of happiness and success you desire. Conversely, there are tremendous benefits to everyone involved — business owners, team members, customers and families — in maintaining a balance between personal lives and business. The more out of balance and unhappy you are, the less your financial success will ultimately mean because of the tremendous price you paid — what you sacrificed along the way — to achieve it. You can’t go back and recapture those magical times in life after your kids are grown. After a divorce, you can’t make up for neglecting a marriage. When your health fails, it can be difficult, if not impossible, to get it back. The interesting thing about striking a balance between life and business is that in addition to improving the quality of your life, you also become a more productive, creative
The interesting thing about striking a balance between life and business is that in addition to improving the quality of your life, you also become a more productive, creative and effective business owner. You increase your potential and therefore the potential of your business.
and effective business owner. When you take time to care for yourself and engage in other aspects of your life, you recharge mentally, emotionally and physically. As a result, you have more to give. In other words, you increase your potential and therefore the potential of your business. When you balance life and business, you tend to treat the people in your personal and professional lives better because your perspective is clearer and your attitude more pleasant. You’re more patient — your fuse isn’t so short — and happier. When you treat people better, they have the tendency to do the same. All your relationships improve as a result. When you go on vacation with your significant other or hiking with your kids, be present with them. When you attend a family function, spend time with friends, go for a bike ride, read a book in the hammock, take a swim or anything else you decide to do, enjoy the moment for all it’s worth. Taking your spouse out for a regular date night, spending quality time with kids, pursuing your passions and going on vacations aren’t synonymous with working and
doing business. While it’s true you can take your work with you on vacation, the reality is that neither will be the best they can be as long as your attention is divided between them. One must give way to the other. A working vacation isn’t a vacation. It’s merely working in a different location. The secret to all of this is truly stepping away from your business when you get outside the office and engage in the rest of your life. Turn off your phone and computer. Leave your business thoughts and concerns behind as much as you can — and you can much more than you realize. When you choose to do so, all the moments of your life will take on a greater meaning. For you and everyone involved. As a business owner, you’re the foundation of your enterprise. The more energized, inspired and balanced you are, the stronger your company will be. When the quality of your life diminishes, take notice and take action. In the end, each of us are left with the sum of the moments of our life. We’ll either be satisfied with the life we lived or we won’t. Live your life with the intention of creating balance among its differing aspects. You’ll not only be successful, but also — and perhaps more importantly — happy. 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. F
Employers face new requirements for paid sick leave At least quarterly, the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) sends newsletters to employers who file unemployment insurance tax forms. If you don’t read these newsletters, you should reconsider. A recent newsletter offered useful information about Colorado-mandated employee sick leave accrual. In 2021, businesses with 15 or fewer employees had to provide public heath emergency (PHE) leave, but were exempt from providing accrued leave. Almost everyone with employees is now required to comply with 2022 regulations and requirements. Janet There could be exceptions, such Arrowood as sole-owner businesses. Ask your accountant or tax professional or contact the CDLE for guidance. According to the CDLE, all Colorado employers, regardless of size or industry, are required to provide accrued paid sick leave and public health emergency leave to their employees under the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act (HFWA). Here are the highlights of PHE/HFWA requirements for 2022: n All employees accrue an hour of paid sick leave per 30 hours worked, up to 48 hours in a calendar year. You may allow employees to accrue leave at a faster rate and in greater amounts if you choose. n If you have a paid time off (PTO) policy or collective bargaining agreement that covers the same conditions or needs at the same pay rate and with no tougher requirements than HFWA, you comply with the 2022 requirements.
Leave must be paid at the same pay rate employees earn during time worked. Moreover, leave can’t be counted against employees as absences that could lead to firing or other actions. For COVID-related sick leave: n Colorado’s 80-hour COVID 19-related PHE leave continues as long as a COVID-related emergency remains declared by a federal, state or local public health agency and both federal and state emergencies remain in effect. The right to HFWA COVID-related leave continues until four weeks after all applicable public health emergencies end or are suspended. n PHE leave is available for a range of COVIDrelated needs, not just confirmed cases. Those needs include illness with COVID symptoms, quarantining or isolating due to COVID exposure, COVID testing, vaccinations and side effects, inability to work due to health conditions that could increase susceptibility or risk of COVID and COVID-related needs of family. You can’t require documentation from employees to show leave is for COVID-related needs. What are the consequences of non-accrual or noncompliance? n Since you could be treating this requirement as an unfunded obligation — just maintaining the obligated accrued hours in some form of spreadsheet — you could have a serious problem if one of your employees gets sick or meets any other qualifiers for PHE/HFWA paid time off or leave.
n As with non-payment of unemployment insurance or other payroll taxes, you could face steep fines and penalties and possibly legal action if you’re unable to cover HFWA, PHE or COVID leave requirements. n If you’re considering paying employees via 1099 to avoid this obligation, think again. And please consult first with your attorney or tax advisor. Leave must be paid at the same pay rate employees earn during time worked. Moreover, leave can’t be counted against employees as absences that could lead to firing or other actions. Consider putting an emergency staffing plan into place or developing an arrangement with a staffing agency to provide short-term or interim staff. Perhaps you’ve maintained good relationships with former or retired employees and could tap them to help cover absences. Funding accrued leave is essential if you face a situation in which you’re paying sick leave and having to replace the sick employee. This funding is especially important if your cash flow is normally tight and the fill-in employee or temporary contractor needs to be paid at a higher rate on a 1099. The preceding is intended for informational purposes. Each business situation is unique. Contact your attorney, tax advisor or the CDLE for advice. For additional information visit the website located at https://cdle.colorado.gov/hfwa. Janet Arrowood is founder and managing director of the Write Source. The Grand Junction firm offers a range of services, including grant and proposal writing, instruction and technical writing. Reach her at janet.arrowood@thewritesourceinc.com. For more information, log on to www.TheWriteSourceInc.com. F
July 7-20, 2022
The Business Times
Page 19
Making connections part of health care delivery I recently joined 12 health care leaders from across Western Colorado for a roundtable discussion hosted by Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The federal agency administers Medicare, Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program and federal health insurance marketplace known as HealthCare.gov. The CMS also works to advance health equity, improve outcomes and expand affordable care and coverage. Brooks-LaSure has made it a priority to travel across the nation to hear from health care leaders who Ashley work with both CMS and patients. Her Thurow goal is to help all eligible Americans enroll in programs for which they qualify, understand their coverage and use it to improve their health. She spent her time in Western Colorado on better understanding how to support innovation, address health equity, explore opportunities for partnerships and identify barriers that hinder innovation in rural and underserved areas. I encouraged Brooks-LaSure to prepare to encounter the unexpected. Despite the mostly rural setting on the Western Slope, we are unexpectedly collaborative, innovative and sophisticated. This ingenuity comes as no surprise to residents and leaders who work together to help our communities. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, CMS was no different. The agency had to quickly innovate and pivot to allow for telehealth visits in light of clinic closures. This allowed health care access to continue and proved
At Monument Health, we strive to connect every member with a primary care provider. If a member doesn’t already have a primary care home, we reach out to them to invite them in.
beneficial to many patients. The roundtable participants urged CMS to continue to allow payment for telehealth and home health services, which are even more important in rural communities where access is limited. The digital divide remains a reality in rural areas, and many patients don’t have strong enough broadband to support video streaming in addition to virtual voice calls. We encouraged Brooks-LaSure to continue to allow audio-only visits to reach the most underserved patients. We also strongly encouraged the administrator to bring Medicaid into focus. Most of the roundtable participants stressed efforts to reach patients with the most needs for access and health resources. We expressed how important we believe Medicaid is as a vehicle to bolster health equity and outcomes. But availability and accessibility doesn’t always result in use of Medicare, Medicaid or marketplace offerings. Several roundtable participants expressed their concerns about numerous patients who enroll, but don’t know how to use their benefits. I shared the Monument Health approach, which invites people into the health care system. At Monument Health, we strive to connect every member with a primary care provider. If a member doesn’t already have a primary
care home, we reach out to them to invite them in. This allows us to connect with our members, get to know them and their health care needs and find primary care homes that offer a good fit. This is just one way we help them understand and navigate their care. If we could extend this work to more Medicaid participants — and financially incentivize providers to engage in it — we could make a meaningful difference. Within this context, we encouraged BrooksLaSure to consider extending Medicare programs that reward population health work to also support Medicaid participants. CMS is committed through its Center for Medicare & Medicaid Innovation to test and create new models of care, explore innovation and work closely with regional offices to understand health care trends and local data. Still, gaps in care exist. Access and health equity remain barriers to care, especially in rural areas. CMS works to identify those gaps, innovate and make sure everyone who’s eligible receives care and understands how to navigate it. Brooks-LaSure hosted a productive conversation and truly listened to understand where gaps in care exist, where opportunities for innovation lie and how to promote health equity and access in rural Colorado. It was an honor to participate in the discussion. It affirms to me that Monument Health, along with our partners, improve the health of our community. Ashley Thurow is executive director of Monument Health, a clinically integrated network based in Grand Junction that serves 23,000 members across Western Colorado. For additional information, visit the website located at www.monumenthealth.net. F
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July 7-20, 2022
Change is inevitable — so let’s make it together We face changes every day in our businesses, personal lives and relationships. Regardless of our feelings, we can’t stay the same or risk becoming stagnant or obsolete. The question becomes how to deal with change — ignore it, embrace it or direct the effects as much as possible? Most employees look at workplace changes as challenges. Instead of embracing them, they focus on the stress and confusion and become overwhelmed. One recent study found that 71 percent of employees who experienced a large company change within the last year were less satisfied with their jobs than those who experienced little to no change. Since companies can’t avoid Kelly it, smart leaders learn to minimize Murphy the negative effects of change on employees as well as customers, investors and the community. They provide these stakeholders with continuous support and updates if they hope to influence the outcome. Ensuring as much transparency as possible leaves less room for doubt. After all, the human brain creates its own details if none are provided. It’s important to consider company culture, including unwritten rules, and check the proverbial pulse of an organization and how individuals perceive the change. By promoting a culture of recognition, communication and engagement, leaders gain trust and loyalty long before the need arises to manage change. In a positive work environment, employees are more apt to adapt and remain resilient when faced with the difficulties related to company changes. To sway the outcome of change, business professionals
turn to change models or methods as a way to prepare for and mitigate negative outcomes. With technology, various models are available at our fingertips. Some of the more popular ones include the Lewin’s Change Management Model, Six Sigma Kaizen process, McKinsey 7S Model, Kotter’s Eight-Step Change Model and ADKAR Model. Regardless of the chosen tool, each process focuses on businesses bringing ideas together, building solutions, preparing for resistance and barriers, determining positive and negative impacts and keeping stakeholders informed. It’s possible through preparation and hard work to develop the best possible environment in which to bring about change. Whether facing a workflow modification, operating system migration, cultural change or new benefit options, certain steps will help ensure a smooth transition for your company, customers, investors, community and employees: n Clarify the need for change by performing an analysis: where we are, where we need to be and how we get there. n Determine what and who the change will affect — positively or negatively — and how to manage the negativity the company will face. n Define the pros and cons of the change and how this will be communicated. n Design any training necessary to implement the change and how and when it will be delivered. Consider the challenges involved, including different shifts and the various ways people learn. Managers should touch base with employees throughout the process to ensure they’re supported and informed. n Communicate early on. Have an open discussion about why change is necessary and the expectations involved — a better work environment, increased
operations or more opportunities, for example. Explain how the change improves lives and situations. Don’t shy away from the cons. Be prepared to address them. Before the change occurs, ensure all employees are aware of how it could affect them individually or as a department. n Explain when the change will occur. If possible, provide employees with a timeline or phases and how long it will take for the company to prepare. Provide updates along the way, including information on delays or changes in the schedule. n Recognize achievements under the old way of doing things. It’s important for employees to feel their hard work contributed to progress to this new level. n Encourage employees to express concerns. Provide a forum for employees to ask questions or discuss concerns in private. n Measure the effectiveness of the change. Was the goal achieved or did the change produce the desired outcome? Be open to modifications to new procedures or operations. Once the transition has begun, accommodate employee suggestions to improve new systems or processes. n Revisit the process until things work smoothly. Never feel obligated to proceed with change if it turns out to be the wrong decision. By preparing as much as possible, you’ll serve your stakeholders well. You can’t anticipate every bump in this process, though. Flexibility could determine success. Kelly Murphy works as a human resources business partner with Lighthouse HR Support in Grand Junction. The firm offers a range of resources spanning the employment process. For additional information, call 243-7789 or visit www.lighthousehrs.net. F
July 7-20, 2022
The Business Times
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What goes up, comes down. But how hard? Almost everyone anticipates a recession. But if everyone believes a recession is coming, why aren’t we compensating for it yet? Or are we? We keep telling ourselves this time it will be different than what we’ve experienced in the past. This time, multiple economic, cultural and geopolitical factors will come into play. One of those factors is, of course, the COVID-19 pandemic. Trillions of dollars were pumped into the economy to counteract the effects of the pandemic and shutdown. Sid Excess cash and pent-up demand led to mass Squirrell consumption. This and other factors caused the high inflation that’s become more persistent than the transitory inflation initially attributed to supply chain issues. From what we’ve learned from the history of business cycles, we know what goes up must eventually come down. It’s a matter of when and how hard. Some argue the United States already has slipped into a recession. Others say it’s bound to happen soon. Still others believe a a recession won’t occur for some time. The reason we’re not compensating for an upcoming recession is we don’t know what’s coming. Although there are no straight answers for exactly when or how hard, we can still base predictions on past events and present conditions. This time, there’s still strong labor demand, low unemployment and high levels of savings and liquidity in the economy. People still have money to spend. Given
that 70 percent of economic activity is based on consumption, a recession will only occur when consumption slows. There are multiple ways this can occur — adjustments to spending, unforeseen events and other economic forces. The increase in interest rates has lowered consumer confidence and slowed the Hannah residential real estate market. In Croasdell the late 1970s and early 1980s, the Federal Reserve raised interest rates repeatedly to curb inflation. Eventually, the interest rate for a 30-year mortgage topped 20 percent. Although interest rates remain historically low, there’s no guarantee this won’t happen again. Geopolitical forces also affect the economy, especially war. That includes the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the threat of that conflict spreading. During World War II, trillions of dollars were spent on the war effort. Consumption and inflation increased and an economic downturn followed. But in our case, trillions of dollars were placed into the hands of consumers, and the money is still circulating. The good news for the real estate market is this money needs a place to go. Real estate investments serve as a hedge against inflation.
There’s still high demand for quality real estate and high purchasing power, which compresses the capitalization rates used to measure the return on commercial real estate. Not until interest rates equal or go above cap rates will cap rates increase and values decrease. We’ve also seen recent declines in stock markets, which could lose further ground. If that happens, some of that money will come out of stocks and go into real estate. We believe we’re due for an economic reset, but hopefully not for another 12 months to 18 months. The scary part about making a prediction is nobody can truly know what will happen or when. Even the news about the spread of monkeypox in the U.S. could affect the economy. The war in Ukraine could drag on for years. All the factors that keep us from going into a recession right now will be the same factors that will help us come out of a recession, if not lessen the effects. If a major economic downturn does take place, it will be a result of unforeseen events. Otherwise, we would have compensated for it before it occurred. Sid Squirrell, a Certified Commercial Investment Member, is a broker associate with Bray Commercial in Grand Junction. Hannah Croasdell, a recent Colorado Mesa University graduate, works as his assistant. For additional information, call 241-2909 or visit the website at www.braycommercial.com. F
Businesses play a role in suicide prevention efforts Mesa County Public Health joined with the Mesa County coroner and Mesa County Suicide Prevention Coalition to release an annual report on suicide. The group collects and analyzes data to understand trends and implement prevention activities. One of the key findings of the report is that people who died by suicide in 2021 were more likely to be affected by multiple types of stressors at the time of their deaths. Stressors include financial, legal and health challenges as well as challenges with relationships. feeling economically stable leads Sarah Gray Not to financial stress, for example, one of the risk factors that can be addressed. The report also noted that over the last three years, the percentage of adults in Mesa County who reported regular feelings of isolation had steadily increased. For 2021, the proportion climbed above 30 percent. While it’s crucial to have resources in place to help people in a moment of crisis, it’s also important to address
the issues that contributed to the situation. For businesses, the goal should be to foster a work environment in which employees can openly discuss mental health and access resources they need to reduce their risk factors. In addition, the workplace is connected to overall well-being. When people feel connected to others — whether it’s at work, in their neighborhoods or churches — it reduces the risk of suicide. Innovative programs are under way in Mesa County involving local businesses as well as government, health care and nonprofit organizations. The Mesa County Suicide Prevention Coalition advises workplaces about policies that help people feel included. Gun and pawn shops participate in the Gun Shop Project, which provides information about suicide risk and distributes gun locks to encourage safe storage of firearms. Easy access to lethal means, like firearms, can be a risk factor for suicide for people who’re struggling. The goal of the Gun Shop Project is to put time and distance between a suicidal person and gun. Other businesses also can join in suicide prevention efforts. Education and awareness are key to making sure
people who are at risk of suicide get the help they need. Free training available in Mesa County, including in-person and online options. Mental Health First Aid provides an eight-hour course that teaches people how to identify and respond to someone experiencing mental health challenges. QPR training teaches people to question, persuade and refer. A one-hour course covering suicide intervention skills offers a lunch and learn opportunity for businesses. To register or obtain more information about the courses, send an email to Jennifer.daniels2@d51schools.org. By taking advantage of free training, you could make a difference in the life of someone experiencing a suicidal crisis. Help is always available. If you or someone you know is struggling, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or text CO to 741741. Sarah Gray is a communication specialist with Mesa County Public Health. For additional information, call 248-6900 or visit https://health.mesacounty.us. F
Contributors Opinion Bold predictions for 2015 In promising to do everything, What’s ahead for 2022: A new year Business affords government Briefs accomplishesrepeats nothing more like not-so-bold Glass half full or half empty? a new opportunity Business People Almanac to meet local needs THE he B BUSINESS usiness T T Times IMES
PPAGE age 22 22
I’m by nature a glass-half-full kind of guy. Locked in a room filled with horse poop, I’m the one digging for a pony. I’m not sure whether that makes me hopelessly naive or naively hopeless. I can’t argue against the value of recognizing the downside to situations. In some circumstances, youstart don’t know — A new year almost always brings an opportunity forwhat a fresh and or underestimate — will kill you. But there’s also a danger, renewed ambition to do things better. believe, boils in dwelling onproviding the negative if it prevents from In business, thatI usually down to customers betteryou products trying to achieve something positive. That’s not to mention and services faster and at lower cost than competitors. Part of the process mustthe risk of self-fulfilling prophesy. You actually worry something include listening to customers to determine what they need andbad thenwill happen and, lo and behold, it does. meeting that need. After all, it does little good to offer the latest and greatest if It’s better acknowledge what’s wrong, try to fix it and nobody actually wants what you’retoselling. move on with hopeful expectations success. Just like the businesses that belong to the group, thefor Grand Junction Area This lengthy explanation serves as a prologue to my real Chamber of Commerce invariably starts out the new year with a reassessment of topic. Or, rather, question. What’s ahead forwith the second half the services and resources it provides and how well they match members Phil Castle of 2022? Will the proverbial glass be half full, half empty or needs. Jeff Franklin, the new chairman of the chamber board of directors, something completely personifies this approach in describing whatdifferent? he considers his role for the coming As with all economic considerations, the answer remains essentially year: listen to members, determine their needs and then meet those needs. It’s a the same. It depends. It depends on who you ask as well as the of a role with which Franklin is familiar as market president of Bankeffects of Colorado. combination of factors known unknown. The process will take on aand more structured approach in what the chamber survey asks Coloradoaptly business leaders whattothey think, and thethe plansAasquarterly the resumption of a program called Listening Business. Under latest results are grim. The Leeds Business Confidence Index fell 12.8 points toto program, business owners participate in in-depth interviews to identify barriers 41.1 for the third quarter, the fifth-lowest reading in the history of the index. growth and other problems they encounter. By the below 50 reflect than positive Theway, newreadings year offers a good time tomore join negative the proverbial club. responses. There was more bad news. Individual readings for each of six metrics the index As an advertiser or reader, what do you need from the Business Times? tracks also slipped below 50. While business journals traditionally gather and report the relevant news to Asked to provide theisn’t reasons for their responses, 60 percent of businesstrue as readers, communication necessarily a one-way street. That’s especially leaders cited inflation and 27 percent cited interest rates. Only 6 percent cited Web sites and e-mail make the dialogue more convenient than ever. recession. 23 percent of those who responded saidrespond they believed the United Good Yet, publications don’t exist in a vacuum. They to the needs of States is already in recession 57 percent said they expect the economy to slip advertisers and readers. They and provide what’s needed. into So recession next what do youyear. need? But even as the index and its metrics expectations the economy, Is there additional news coverage thattracking would help keep you for informed about sales, profits, hiring and capital expenditures were down, other indicators offer local business developments? Are there features that would be interesting or more encouragement. useful? Is there advice that would make your jobs a little easier? The labor market has rebounded from COVID-19 pandemic remains It’s equally important to ask what youthe don’t need. With limitedand time to strong. Nonfarm payrolls in Colorado have increased 1.2 percent above the produce content and limited space in which to publish it, would time and space be pre-pandemic even as theelse? monthly jobless rate has dropped to 3.5 percent. better devotedpeak to something In Mesa County, payrolls increased 3,382 over theWhat past isn’t? year — a gain of 4.7 percent What’s good? What isn’t? What’s needed? — asLet theus seasonally unadjusted joblessComment rate dropped 2.5 points 3.3 percent. know. Send us an e-mail. online on thetoBusiness Times Web Tax collections, a measure of retail sales and lodging activity, continue to increase. site at www.thebusinesstimes.com. You could even write an old-fashioned letter to I’m noifeconomist. don’tfeedback, even playboth onepositive on TV. I’m an observer whoand the editor you’d like. IYour andjust negative, is valued reports facts. Just the facts. And maybe I am too optimistic by nature. will be the carefully considered. But I hold out hope for the the result secondofhalf 2022. theofglass, Good publications are notof only theThat efforts theirespecially staffs, buthere also in the Grand Valley, remainadvertisers at least halfand full. If nothing else, I’m grateful to still collaborative efforts will involving readers. haveLike a glass. any other good business, we want to listen to our customers, find out what they need and then meet those needs. Phil It’s Castle is editor of the Business a new year. Please help us toTimes. do so. Reach him at 424-5133 or phil@thebusinesstimes.com. ✦ 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. © 2022 — All rights reserved.
Think about it. Is there an easier way to doIt’s nothing thanof promise every voter you that time year when lust after you’ll everything for abound. them? resolutions and do prognostications Well, you don’t My favorite saying applied to New Year’s actually do is nothing. resolutions in saying they’re basically a Ibunch mean,ofgovernment promises to break the first week has to do something. of January. And while I won’t predict a Like wholehold lot, aI hearing, can pretty much accurately write sternly worded nail a afew things that without question letter, throw will make themoney news. You will see these are at a problem or set pretty, well, predictable: up a ■ public relations Prediction one: event show they’re There to will be some taking type of sort of some weather event, action. that or action Craig Hall natural Yet, disaster is the opposite (or end heinous occurrence result) of doing something that caused the where someone will problem in the first place. Worse, every be interviewed and say action helps the“I’ve insiders and hurts the the following: everyday like you and me. never seenpeople anything Lookinno like that myfurther than the Biden administration myriad examples. But lifetime.” It’s asfor if this Hall of I’ll try to keep it to few highlights person is a requiredjust aCraig the most at obvious. attendee every news Let’s start with the most vulnerablemost reporting event. While I understand among No, this isn’t about abortion. people’sus.perspective can indeed be limited It’s baby formula. government by, about or contained within,This theiris own personal at its most obvious at screwing experiences, it is too much toup aska problem to it created. Regulations have left the United consult some historical perspective before States a handful formula sayingwith suchonly a thing? Yes,of this response can producers. Thenevents. the fedsBut shutwhen downitthe apply to some comes largest plantand in the country becauseI’m a few to weather natural disasters, pretty babies gotissick. Seriously. then took itself. sure this simply historyIt repeating its sweet COVID” doing of Same as time it has“due for to millions andinmillions inspections the plant asthe it was shutmade downit! years. Moreatimportant, planet to get itdidn’t back up andcertain running — overHow’s six What were species. months. Yet, the government didn’t foresee a that for perspective? shortage. For the record, the company ■ Prediction two: When it comes(which to a knows a hell of a lot more about safety and crime or something that occurs between making than bureaucrats) found no humans,formula the other required attendee at all link its events formulaisand illnesses. newsbetween reporting thethe person who here we are today thenicest greatest says So this: “They we’re justinthe nation people,ever andthat’s in nostepped way didupI to seeevery something challenge in its history IMPORTING formula like this coming.” Exactly. No one does from (yes,when the same continent most Europe of the time it comes to we’ve saved multiple and continue to provide neighbors and times acquaintances. People should protection for) on Air Force cargo planes. be surprised at what goes on from time to By formula doesn’t meetand our timethe inway, theirthat neighborhoods, towns standards —standards ironically, by the with people they knowset, because people are feds. plantthat is closed due to good.Now Andthat for same the times they shouldn’t real contamination andrepeat the be shocked — likefrom withflooding, politicians, problem goes on. What do the feds want offenders and terrorists — where’s the to do? Look into “monopoly” of formula interview that the says, “This doesn’t surprise makers so least.” it has even more control over me in the creating formula shortages. Why do you ■ Prediction three: Something good think the supply chain is stilland broken? will happen economically, the It affects thiswill as much anything. government take as credit for it. The most If example one contrasts formula emergency recent is gasthe prices, where people with thewhy tensI of thousands of illnesses ask me won’t credit the presidentand for Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System low gas prices. My answer is simple: claims from vaccines versus mandate Government never makes the the price of monopolies our governments, one credit can something goofdown and simply takes only conclude they want for good news.it’s Gasexactly pricinghow is subject to it and global it’s notfactors. about health. Plus,are we know many Now there how most Democrats about babies. government answers tofeel addressing some of we talk about inflation and themCan to keep prices stable for Americans, gasoline prices? Youhas know but our government nonethey’re of themNOT in temporary because Ol’it Joe so and place. The only things has said in place in the
July15-28, 7-20, 2015 2022 JANUARY
promised to fix it. No, not by using America’s mighthurt andconsumers. work ethicAnother and long run always history of meeting challenges. Rather, fact is that unemployment reaches a certain by begging enemies for more oilwhile and the level based on the economy. And enriching bad people well as spending government might bragasthe number is low, more money ever did has it’s more thanthan likelygovernment the government in history, in history showing something to spite causeof that number being low overspending a root cause of inflation. — and not in aisgood way. Conversely, when Worse, they’re lying to us about and business picks up, it’s because the itpeople blaming —were and soon who needthe to oil buycompanies widgets who not will blame corporate greed for all of was it if buying widgets because the economy they haven’tdue begun in some already. contracting to natural (or areas unnatural, Inflationcaused) isn’t increasing 8 percent government reasons, decided weor so. That’s even close.The On the things we better buy not some widgets. government need to survive it’swith closer had nothing to do this.to 30 percent. And ■ that’s withoutfour: gas for the car, with which Prediction In keeping is worse. bunch of arrogant orificesthe things theAgovernment does, I predict who never gowill to the store or the fill numbers up their to government manipulate cars onlythe people on the makeare thethe claim economy is planet gettingwho can claim suchof a lie without from to better because how hard itaisbolt working the them. Yet they doNow this helpheavens all of ushitting “working Americans.” every day because theyyou know two say things: you might say, “Craig, always this Telling you whatObama you want to hear get about President because youwill don’t your vote,You’re and they never reality like him.” right in asuffer sense.the I don’t from theybut create. a payoff knowwhat the man, whatPlus, I know of himofand $1,200 a yearI keeps you itquiet towards his thinking, don’t like or him one iota. them, them against Beforeyet youfighting go off,for however, I didn’tthose like of us who know they’re crooked as can be. President Bush and his bailouts, stimulus Andabandoning speaking ofthe telling what to wesave and his free us market want to hear, you’re to hear lot about the free market. Andgoing I don’t knowa him student loan forgiveness as wedoes, approach either. What the government and the the it’s just onlycoming thing itelection. can do,At is this hurtpoint, the economy. words even President Unlessbecause it does nothing or put Biden-mycriminals in time knows of giving up thatwith kind them, of slavejail instead partnering nothing level leverage over people exchange the government does will in help. Alwaysfor look votes is away, bad idea. That the is, until it’s the last at it this whatever government says arrow in thewhatever quiver, which student loans still it is doing, the name of the law it could become. For now,the it’s name just a teaser is passing, or whatever or goalonof athe program whichitnever should have been bureaucracy is presenting to the implemented thepolar first place. people, expectinthe opposite to occur. Only government up with I guess what I’m could sayingcome is that aperhaps ploy to it’s get time unqualified citizens to take out to get out of our own loans they have no chance back perspective. There’s plentyofofpaying history for an item not worth the paper out it’s there printedto books and historical research on. And use taxpayers begin tothen understand that allasofguarantors. this has All studentbefore. loans did was universities happened And it make will again, richer while products of whether the making topic is the people or government. universities lose value — through, The best recommendation is of to find course, more or government promises for more some books try that whole Google factions of voters. thing. There’s a lot of information on the this sounds eerily familiar, GreatIf Depression. The truth is it it’s wasn’t because you don’t have to go too far back even a good one until the government got in history to see thealso mortgage mess brought involved. There’s plenty of research to government. about to occur onyou the by medieval warm It’s period when the again, different — unless planet just waswith much warmercauses than today with you countlotgovernment a whole less peopleinvolvement, (and warmerwhich well is always thewas main one.at all). And yep, before man here Everything is still on to people have beenabove killing othergoing surprised this daysince with history plans towas continue. Worse, it’s people first written. because that’s howresearch government wantsstop it. Maybe some will help Doing “everything” accomplishes all of these trends. Otherwise, we’ll be only government goals. whenlike doing saying we’ve never seenEven anything it in nothing. our lives. And not in a good way. Craig Craig Hall Hall is is owner owner and and publisher publisher of of the the Business Times. Reach him at 424-5133 Business Times. Reach him at 424-5133 or or publisher@thebusinesstimes.com. publisher@thebusinesstimes.com. F ✦
The Business Times
July 7-20, 2022
Government to blame for inflationary trends, not producer gouging Skyrocketing gasoline prices. Exploding home prices and rents. Escalating food costs. Inflationary trends have dominated the thoughts of most people for the past two years. Sometimes citizens make a plaintive outcry for the government to do something, anything, to ease suffering. It’s ironic, though, to ask government to manage outof-control prices when government Phyllis interference is the Hunsinger cause of the problem. The price of a product is a function of supply and demand. Consumers have a desire to acquire a product, and producers manufacture a supply to meet demand. The equilibrium market price of a product is the price at which quantity supplied equals quantity demanded. What happens when this equilibrium is disrupted? What are the causes of the disruption? The United States national debt approaches $31 trillion. The U.S. doesn’t have enough money to pay its bills. Unlike private citizens, the government can print money. These newly minted dollars are added to the economy as fiat money — the face value of the printed money far exceeds its commodity value. Writing for the Foundation for Economic Education, Dan Sanchez noted the extra printed money enables customers to bid up the prices charged by their suppliers, who in turn use the extra money to bid up the prices charged by their suppliers. This is how new money raises prices across the board, although unevenly, as it circulates through the economy. Some in the Biden administration accused producers of taking advantage of product shortages and supply chain constraints by excessively raising prices. As Sanchez put it: “Blaming rising prices on profit seeking is like blaming a plane crash on gravity.” Businesses can’t stay in business without making a profit, a well-established fact. Why are business profits deemed excessive? Actions taken by the federal government set the stage to disrupt the free market and directly affect prices. For example:
Extra printed money enables customers to bid up the prices charged by their suppliers, who in turn use the extra money to bid up the prices charged by their suppliers.
n Stifling the oil and natural gas industry with punitive ideological policies and moving the U.S. from a net exporter to a major importer. n Forcing businesses to shut down in the COVID-19 pandemic, in turn disrupting supply chains. n Destroying commodities due to a lack of available truckers to transport goods. n Paying workers more to stay home, creating a labor shortage throughout the economy. n Printing money to compensate for extraordinary deficit spending. The Consumer Price Index released June 10 reflected an 8.6 percent increase over the past year in the price of a basket of consumer goods a typical household buys. Brad Polumbo, policy correspondent with the Foundation for Economic Education, noted that producer prices rose 10.8 percent. Producers aren’t gouging consumers. Government spokespersons never acknowledge facts or truthfully answer the question, “Who created this problem?” The financial health of the United States and its citizens is on the line. Free markets strangled by government interference equals rising prices. Phyllis Hunsinger is founder of the Freedom & Responsibility Education Enterprise Foundation in Grand Junction. The FREE Foundation provides resources to students and teachers in Western Colorado to promote the understanding of economics, financial literacy and free enterprise. A former teacher, principal and superintendent, Hunsinger wrote “Down and Dirty: A ‘How To’ Math Book.” Reach Hunsinger at phyllis@free-dom.us.com. For more information about the FREE Foundation, log on to the website located at www.free-dom.us.com. F
SHARE YOUR VIEWS The Business Times welcomes letters to the editor and guest columns on issues affecting businesses in Western Colorado. Submissions should be emailed to phil@thebusinesstimes.com and include names and telephone numbers for verification.
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Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac
n COOL ZOO EXOTIC ANIMAL EXHIBIT COMING TO MESA COUNTY FAIR
Cool Zoo, an educational exhibit featuring exotic animals, is scheduled to come to the Mesa County Fair in Grand Junction. The annual fair — which also will include carnival rides, rodeo shows and monster trucks — is set for July 12 to 16 at the fairgrounds, located at 2785 U.S. Highway 50. The fair carnival is scheduled for July 9 to 16. “It is an honor to participate in this wonderful event and present the community with the opportunity to receive an education on these beautiful creatures. We hope that through our efforts, people will have a newfound appreciation for these amazing animals,” said Jim DeBerry, president and chief executive officer of Cool Zoo. The walk-through exhibit will offer fair attendees a chance to learn about and view such animals as an alligator, boa constrictor, giant tortoises, kangaroos and parrots. The exhibit offers audiences information about the individual species as well as conservation efforts. A family owned and operated operation, Cool Zoo appears at hundreds of fairs, conventions and other events each year and offers a range of experiences. For more information, visit the website at http://coolzoo.org. For more information about the Mesa County Fair, log on to https://mesacountyfair.com. n WIENERSCHNITZEL OFFERS LUAU SAUCE TO TOP HOT DOGS, BURGERS AND FRENCH FRIES
Wienerschnitzel has added to its menu a luau barbecue sauce combining the flavors of guava, pineapple and Sriracha and barbecue sauces. Wienerschnitzel will combine its luau barbecue sauce with grilled onions, pineapple and chopped bacon as a topping on hot dogs, burgers and french fries. “I think this luau barbecue sauce is the best sauce I’ve ever had in a restaurant. Combining it with grilled onions, pineapple and bacon tastes like you just escaped to a tropical paradise,” said Doug Koegebohn, chief marketing officer for Wienerschnitzel. “I wouldn’t be surprised if some restaurants run out due to its popularity.” Wienerschnitzel operates or franchises restaurants in 10 states — including locations in the Grand Junction area. For additional information or to find the closest Wienerschnitzel location, log on to www.wienerschnitzel.com.
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The executives of Timberline Bank say they’re grateful the bank was inducted into the Colorado Companies to Watch Hall of Fame. Jeffery Taets and Jim Pedersen, co-chief executive officers of Timberline Bank, said the list of businesses honored over the past 14 Jeffery Taets years through the program is “impressive.” To be included among those companies, especially as a member of the Hall of Fame, was “amazing” they said. Jim Pedersen Timberline Bank was among the 2016 winners in the Colorado Companies to Watch program. The bank was honored again as a Hall of Fame winner at the recent 2020 awards gala. Four other Grand Junctionbased firms were among the latest award recipients in the annual program honoring fastgrowing Colorado companies. The Christi Reece Group, IronIQ, QuikrStuff and Timberline Trailers were among the 2022 winners. Knott Laboratory was a finalist. The Colorado Companies to Watch program honors companies for their products, processes and performance in the marketplace as well as their philanthropic efforts. To participate, firms must be privately held, headquartered in Colorado, employ the equivalent of six to 99 full-time employees and generate $750,000 to $50 million in annual sales or working capital. Headquartered in Grand Junction, Timberline Bank also operates locations in Montrose and Aspen.
n ROCKY MOUNTAIN HEALTH FOUNDATION AWARDS GRANTS TO WESTERN SLOPE ORGANIZATIONS The Rocky Mountain Health Foundation has awarded grants worth a total of $603,000 to health-focused organizations in Western Colorado. Grants from a new workforce development fund are intended to help address a shortage of health care providers by supporting women, people of color and people with low incomes beginning or furthering careers in health care or behavioral health care. The Rocky Mountain Health Foundation board of directors approved funding to a total of 23 organizations from 10 Western Slope counties to help fund scholarships, paid internships and livingexpense stipends for those pursuing health care- and behavioral health-related certifications and degrees as well as professional supervision for licensure. The Rocky Mountain Health Foundation was established in 2017 when UnitedHealth Group purchased Rocky Mountain Health Plans and set aside $38 million to promote health and well-being in Western Slope counties. For more information, visit https://rmhealth.org. n CALL FOR ARTISTS OPEN THROUGH DECEMBER FOR “WHO WE ARE” EXHIBIT PLANNED FOR 2023 The Grand Junction Commission on Arts and Culture will accept entries through Dec. 1 for “Who We Are,” an exhibit celebrating the diverse populations of the Grand Valley. “The ‘Who We Are’ exhibit will positively impact art in the community by creating a vibrant environment while showcasing the many talented artists who call Grand Junction home,” said Marlene Godsey, a liason of the Grand Junction Commission on Arts and Culture. The exhibit is scheduled to run through the first half of 2023. The call for artists will close Dec. 1. Artists are invited to apply by submitting up to five electronic files in JPG format as well as their names and contact information. Entries should be eamiled to Godsey at marleneg@gjcity.org. F
New Colorado law reduces fees for business filings Starting in July, Colorado entrepreneurs will pay only $1 to form limited liability companies and register trade names for business entities. The lower fees were implemented as part of state legislation intended to save Colorado businesses and their owns more than $8.4 million in fees for filing documents with the Colorado Secretary of State’s Office during the 2022 and 2023 fiscal year. Jena Griswold “I will always work to cut costs and red tape for Colorado businesses that are the backbone of our communities,” said Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold.
July 7-20, 2022
“This fee relief will keep money in the pockets of small business owners, many of whom have faced adversity and uncertainty over the last few years.” Filers will pay only $1 for initial LLC formations and initial trade name registrations — which are normally $50 and $20, respectively. Filers will see a $49 credit on the fee for LLC formation and $19 credit for the fee on the trade name registration. The reduction in filing fees under the relief program will remain in place during 2022-2023 fiscal year or until the amount of the general fund transfer is exhausted. It’s expected funding for feee relief will remain available until at least June 30, 2023. F
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n WEST STAR AVIATION ANNOUNCES GRAND JUNCTION GENERAL MANAGER
Scott Sweeney has been named general manager of the West Star Aviation facility in Grand Junction. Sweeney succeeds Dave Krogman, who recently announced his retirement. Sweeney will oversee all aspects of the operation, including quality control, planning and project managment. He brings to the position 35 years of Scott Sweeney aviation experience, including his role as general manager of the West Star Aviation facility in East Alton, Ill. “Scott has done a great job in leading the East Alton facility for the past four years, and I am confident he will bring the same style of collaboration and strong business acumen to the Grand Junction site,” said Jim Rankin, chief executive officer of West Star Aviation. Sweeney will be involved in an expansion at the Grand Junction facility, including a a 40,000-square-foot hangar and an additional 32,000 square feet of shop and office space. “As I look ahead with excitement to lead Grand Junction, I am equally as eager to help set the vision and strategic direvtion for sustainable, long-term growth as we expand our footprint and services to customers across the region,” he said. West Star Aviation offers a range of services that include the maintenance and repair of airframes, engines and avionics as well as painting and interior refurbishments. In addition to its facilities at the Grand Junction Regional Airport, West Star Aviation operates facilities in Aspen and Denver as well as in Arizona, Illinois, Minneapolis, Missouri, Tennessee and Texas. The company has ranked first among most-preferred maintenance, repair and overhaul services provider for eight consecutive years in an annual survey conducted by Professional Pilot magazine. For more information, visit www.weststaraviation.com.
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SHARE YOUR NEWS The Business Times welcomes submissions for free publication in Business People and the Almanac calendar of events. Email submissions to phil@thebusinesstimes.com or submit a news release online at www.thebusinesstimes.com. n REGIONAL GOVERNMENT ORGANIZATION NAMES ITS NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Tiffany Pehl has been named the next executive director of the Associated Governments of Northwest Colorado (AGNC). Pehl succeeds Bonnie Petersen, who plans to retire at the end of July. The organization represents Mesa County and four other counties as well as municipalities in the five-county Tiffany Pehl region. Pehl joined the AGNC six years ago as a temporary administrative assistant and since has worked as administrator of the Northwest Colorado Enterprise Zone and deputy director. “She is well-equipped to take on this new role and manage a smooth transition for the benefit of the organization and its members,” Petersen said. Mike Samson, chairman of the AGNC board of directors, also praised Pehl. “We are confident she will be able to move into this important position and take AGNC to the next level.” Pehl said she’s looking forward to her new role. “AGNC has come a long way over the last few years and has a significant role to play as we work through the regional economic transition. We will continue to conduct the work our members have come to expect and serve their needs as a regional resource going forward.” F
Grand Junction mayor to participate in Harvard program Grand Junction Mayor Anna Stout is among seven public officials from across Colorado who’ve been selected to participate in an upcoming program at Harvard University. As a member of the 2022 class of Gates Family Foundation Harvard Fellows, Stout will attend a three-week program at the Harvard University John F. Kennedy School Anna Stout of Government in July. Sean Strode, a city councilor in Rifle, also was selected. “It’s beyond an honor to be chosen to participate in the Kennedy School as a Harvard Fellow for 2022,” Stout said. “I’ve spoken to alumni of this program, and they have called it nothing short of life changing, so I am excited to learn from others, share the innovative things we’re doing here in Grand Junction and bring back everything I learn for the benefit of our city.”
Executives from state and local governments across the country participate in the training. They work together and with Harvard University faculty to analyze case studies of real issues, find interdisciplinary solutions to complex problems and learn from each other to bring ideas back for review and implementation in their organizations. “My goal in participating in this fellowship is to work in tandem with other local public servants from across the country to find innovative solutions to the issues we’re all facing, to pool knowledge and resources for the benefit of our communities and to improve the way we all serve our constituents,” Stout said. Since 1980, the Gates Family Foundation has enabled more than 270 Colorado civic leaders to participate in program. The Gates fellowship pays all but a small portion of the $16,900 program cost — which includes tuition, housing, curricular materials and most meals. F
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July 7 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business free networking luncheon, noon to 1 p.m., Business Incubator Center, 2591 Legacy Way, Grand Junction. Participants should bring a soup, salad or side dish to share. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 n Business startup workshop, 2 to 4 p.m., Business Incubator Center. Admission $55. 243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org July 11 n West Slope Startup Week free regional business conference, July 11 to 15, Grand Junction. https://westslopestartupweek.com July 13 n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce Networking at Noon, noon to 1 p.m., Enzo’s Ristorante Italiano, 707 Horizon Drive. Admission $20 for chamber members, $25 for others. https://gjchamber.org or 242-3214 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce presentation on maximizing chamber membership, noon to 1 p.m., Fruita Civic Center, 325 Aspen Ave. Free for chamber members. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 July 14 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Coloramo Credit Union, 333 W. Aspen Ave. Fruita. Admission $5 for chamber members, $10 for others. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 July 15 n Open Coffee Club free networking meeting, 9 to 10 a.m., FWorks, 325 E. Aspen Ave., Fruita. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 July 19 n Presentation on cash flows for small business startups, noon to 1 p.m., Business Incubator Center. 243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Veterans in Business kickoff event, 5:30 to 7 p.m., Axeology, 2487 Industrial Blvd., Unit 6, Grand Junction. Admission $15. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 July 20 n Free webinar on selling online with e-commerce tools, 10 to 11 a.m. https://gjincubator.org or 243-5242 n Small Business Development Center presentation on business fnances, noon to 1 p.m., FWorks. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 n Young Professionals Network of Mesa County lunch conversation with Brian Hill, superintendent of Mesa County School Dsitrict 51, noon to 12:45 p.m., R-5 High School, 455 N. 22nd St., Grand Junction. Lunch provided. Reservations required. www.ypnmc.org Upcoming n Presentation on planning for small business startups, noon to 1 p.m. July 21, Business Incubator Center. 243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org See ALMANAC page 27
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Continued from page 26 Upcoming n Coffee and community connections event featuring conversations with local leaders, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. July 26, Timberline Bank, 649 Market St., Grand Junction. Admission free for members of the Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce, $5 for others. 858-3894 or https://fruitachamber.org n Grand Valley BizMix networking event for members of the Grand Junction, Palisade and Western Colorado Latino chambers of commerce and Young Professionals of Mesa County, 5:30 to 7 p.m. July 26, Bank of Colorado, 2452 Patterson Road, Grand Junction. Admission $10. n Western Colorado Human Resource Association membership appreciation and membership drive at the Grand Junction Rockies, 6:35 p.m. July 26, Suplizio Field Pavilion, 1315 North Ave. www.wchra.org
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n Welcome Thursday Friends networking meeting, noon to 1:30 p.m. July 28, Koko’s Tavern, 152 S. Mesa St., Fruita. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 n Business startup workshop, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Aug. 4, FWorks. Admission $55. https://gjincubator.org or 243-5242 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business free networking luncheon, noon to 1 p.m. Aug. 4, Business Incubator Center. Participants should bring a soup, salad or side dish to share. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Aug. 11, Grand Valley Primary Care, 101 Jurassic Ave. Admission $5 for chamber members, $10 for others. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 n Open Coffee Club free networking meeting, 9 to 10 a.m. Aug. 19, FWorks. 858-3894 or https://fruitachamber.org
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n Welcome Thursday Friends networking meeting, noon to 1:30 p.m. Aug. 25, Rib City, 455 Kokopelli Drive, Unit E, Fruita. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce presentation on the benefits of membership, noon to 1 p.m. Aug. 30, chamber office, 360 Grand Ave., and via Zoom. 242-3214 or https://gjchamber.org n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Aug. 30, Bellco Credit Union, 2478 U.S. Highway 6 & 50. Admission $10 in advance, $12 at the door. https://gjchamber.org or 242-3214 n Leading Edge business planning and management course, 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays Aug. 31 to Nov. 16, Business Incubator Center. Tuition $275. 243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org F
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