THE BUSINESS T IMES News OCTOBER 22-NOVEMBER 11, 2020
THE DEFINITIVE SOURCE FOR GRAND JUNCTION BUSINESS NEWS SINCE 1994
In this issue n Still uncertain
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While business activity has stabilized, the overall outlook remains uncertain, according to a Federal Reserve economist.
n CMU benefactor
Trends Getting rack Contributors on track n Grand Junction firm off to fast start in manufacturing bicycle carriers. See page 2
VOLUME 27, ISSUE 20
THEBUSINESSTIMES.COM
Opinion Business Briefs 4 Business People Almanac 2
Colorado Mesa University has named its business school after Ron Davis, a trustee and benefactor.
n It’s a Plant Thang A green-thumbed woman makes it her business to share her passion for plants as well as grow her venture.
n Faster process
Bryan Wachs has helped start QuikRStuff, a business assembling high-end bike racks in the Grand Valley.
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A new form was released to streamline the process for applying for forgiveness of Payroll Protection Program loans.
n Taxing matters Tax collections continue to rise in the Grand Valley, an indicator of increased retail sales activity.
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n Equal opportunity HR professionals play key roles in creating more diverse, equitable and inclusive workplaces.
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n Departments Almanac Business Briefs Business People Contributors News Opinion Trends
34 32 34 23-28 2-20 30-31 21-22
Business Times photo by Phil Castle, QuikRStuff photo by Devon Balet Media
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THE BUSINESS T IMES News The Business Times
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OctOber 22-NOvember 11, 2020
Economic outlook uncertain
Trends Contributors Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac
Phil Castle
The Business Times
While business activity has stabilized in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, the economic outlooks for the state, region and nation remain uncertain, according to an economist and executive with the Federal Reserve. The outlooks will vary depending on the effects of the pandemic and could include declines in consumption and employment, said Nicholas Sly, assistant vice president and Denver branch executive of the Federal Nicholas Sly Reserve Bank of Kansas City. Inflation should remain subdued, with the possible exception of higher prices for some foods and household appliances, Sly said. Sly detailed his outlook during an online forum hosted by the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City. The Federal Reserve and its network of 12 banks oversees monetary policy, maintains payment services and regulates banking operations. The Federal Reserve also conducts research and shares information about economic indicators and trends. The Kansas City bank serves Colorado and all or parts of six other states. Many indicators changed dramatically after the onset of the pandemic in the United States, Sly said. The national unemployment rate climbed in a matter of months from its lowest level in 50 years to record highs. Business activity subsequently stabilized, although below pre-pandemic levels, he said. See OUTLOOK page 16
Bryan Wachs is one of two founders of QuikRStuff, a Grand Junction bicycle rack manufacturer. The new company will soon gear up production to meet strong demand for its Mach2 rack. (Business Times photo by Phil Castle)
Getting rack on track Grand Junction firm off to fast start with manufacturing venture
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QuikRStuff has developed the Quik Rack Mach2 bicycle rack based on the designs of Cal Phillips, an inventor and entrepreneur who created the popular Quik Rack carrier. (QuikRStuff photo by Devon Balet Media)
ryan Wachs went looking for a good bicycle rack. He founded what he expects will be a good bicycle rack business. Wachs joined J.T. Westcott in starting QuikRStuff. The Grand Junction company manufactures bicycle racks based on the designs of Cal Phillips, an inventor and entrepreneur who created the popular Quik Rack carrier. QuikRStuff sold the first 100 of its Quik Rack Mach2 in a matter of days. Wachs hopes production will soon begin to fill $290,000 worth of orders from customers who paid full price in advance for the racks. Ultimately, Wachs envisions annual production reaching 10,000 to 20,000 units. Wachs has involved the Maverick Innovation Center at Colorado Mesa University and Business Incubator Center in Grand Junction in the venture and believes QuikRStuff could See RACK page 18
STORY BY PHIL CASTLE
Business school named for benefactor Phil Castle
The Business Times
Ron Davis watched as a sign was unveiled designating the Davis School of Business at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction. But only moments before in a ceremony celebrating the event, Davis designated a distinction. “It’s not about the name on the building,” he said. What’s important, he said, is what happens inside. Davis has played a role in what happens inside as a member of the CMU board of trustees, founder of a program providing scholarships to students and mentor who shares his experiences as an entrepreneur and business executive. CMU President Tim Foster described that role in calling Davis “the most generous philanthropic person I’ve ever known.” Christine Noel, head of the business department at
CMU, said Davis helps students achieve their dreams. Naming the business school for Davis adds prestige to the program, Noel said. But she told Davis she’s eager for him to contribute in still other ways. “We want to learn from you.” Davis worked in marketing at General Foods and helped launch Country Time Lemonade. He went on to found and help build the Perrier Group of America, a bottled water company that included not only the Perrier brand, but also the Arrowhead, Deer Park, Great Bear, Ozarka, Poland Springs and San Pellegrino brands. After selling the Perrier Group of America to Nestle in 1994, Davis founded Davis Capital and used private equity to support other entrepreneurs and ventures. The companies with which he worked included Celestial Seasonings, Continental Container and Greenwich Technology. See BENEFACTOR page 20
Ron Davis speaks at a ceremony establishing the Davis School of Business at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction. The former entrepreneur serves on the CMU Board of Trustees and also established a program to help students earn college degrees. (Business Times photo by Phil Castle)
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well-rounded perspective to new Mesa County role Phil Castle
as well as New England and Canada. Whidden said people who work in information technology aren’t just “geeks,” Frank Whidden brings what he but offer an important perspective because considers a well-rounded perspective to his they’re familiar with nearly every aspect of new job as Mesa County administrator. operations and how work gets done. They Whidden worked also tend to think about new and potentially in information better ways of doing things in asking and technology and holds answering “what if ” questions. “They know a master’s degree in how to effect change in an organization.” computer information Whidden expects to bring that same systems. But he also approach to his duties as administrator. holds a doctoral Whidden said it’s his role to help degree in applied county commissioners make and then management and implement decisions. The commissioners decision making and Frank Whidden in turn represent the residents of the worked for more than county and express their will, he said. “We 20 years as a minister. Whidden has work for the people.” worked for large and small organizations Whidden said he also considers himself in both the private and public sectors. a liaison between the commissioners and Whidden expects to draw on all of his county staff, and one of the priorities is to experiences in helping Mesa County make sure employees feel valued. Whidden commissioners make and carry out decisions. said he hopes not only to improve morale, Valuing staff and making the county but also take steps that will make Mesa an employer of choice is among the County an organization for which people priorities, Whidden said. So is planning want to work. that results in sustainable funding and Meanwhile, Whidden expects the balanced budgets on a long-term basis. county to continue policies and initiatives Meanwhile, Mesa County will that support local business and economic continue to pursue efforts that promote a development. There are additional steps Lynnsey Munroe a variety of plants accessories at It’s a Plant Thang, friendly businesssellsenvironment and and that can be taken to make it easier for local a shop she opened in downtown Grand Junction. Munroe said sales at the economic development, Whidden said. businesses to sell products and services to shop and online have increased during the coronavirus pandemic as people Whidden officially began working as the county, he added. spend more time at home and indoors. (Business Times photo by Phil Castle) county administrator at the beginning of Mesa County will keep working with the year. He succeeds Tom Fisher, who was other government entities, organizations hired as county manager in Summit and institutions on fostering an environment County, Utah. that supports existing businesses and Whidden joined Mesa County in attracts new businesses, he said. August 2011 as information technology Whidden said there could be a director. In April 2014, he became deputy opportunities to encourage the additional county administrator for resource development of businesses that provide management inPhil a staffing Castle reorganization services to the agricultural industry as well YOUR INFORMATION that eliminated director positions. Thefour Business Times as FOR promote Mesa County as a distribution Before joining Mesa County, center for the region. It’s a Plant Thang is located Whidden worked for a company providing The important thing is to consider Lynnsey Munroe sports a decidedly at 530 Main St., Suite A, in information technology services to issues from a well-rounded perspective, green thumb, one developed through a downtown Grand Junction. colleges and universities. In that role, he Whidden said. “We won’t be myopic as we lifelong passion for caring for plants. But For additional information, call managed ITcustomers systems with and brown services for look at things.” she caters to or even 549-0167 or visit the website institutions in Alabama, Arizona, Illinois ✦ black thumbs. at www.itsaplantthang.com. “I want to people to come in and buy something that succeeds,” Munroe said. While Munroe sells rare houseplants and said sales are divided about equally and those that might be a bit temperamental, between her storefront and website. she also carries in her diverse inventory Munroe said she focuses on plants that thrive without too much fuss. houseplants that thrive inside as opposed In addition, she sells soils mixed for to the larger plants that grow outdoors as specific types of plants. And she offers at part of landscaping. She purchases some no charge answers to questions. plants for resale — including rare plants Munroe wants people to discover what imported from other countries. But she she said are the joys and benefits of caring also grows plants in her shop and in a small for plants. “It will make everything better.” greenhouse. The timing couldn’t be better, she While houseplants serve as decorations, said, as the coronavirus pandemic prompts they also can promote well-being, she said. people to spend more time at home. Lavender, for example, relieves stress and Munroe operates It’s a Plant Thang improves sleep. There are other health benefits and recently opened a shop in downtown from houseplants, including purifying air and Grand Junction in a space above Triple reducing mold. Play Records. She also offers plants online, See PLANTS page 14 The Business Times
Green-thumbed woman makes it her business to spread love of plants
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Western Slope land conservation groups merge Two organizations have merged to continue efforts to preserve open spaces and natural resources in Western Colorado. Colorado West Land Trust and Black Canyon Regional Land Trust announced the merger into a single legal entity. The Colorado West Land Trust is headquartered in Grand Junction, but operates an office in Montrose. Rob Bleiberg “With the economic stress and uncertainty of the pandemic, we determined that now is the time to merge the organizations, as this will enhance our sustainability and the resiliency of land conservation work on the Western Slope,” said Rob Bleiberg, executive director of the Colorado West Land Trust.
The two organizations consolidated operations in 2017 to bring a more regional approach to their efforts, but remained separate corporations. Bleiberg said the arrangement not only improved efficiency, but also tested how well the organizations worked together. “Our partnership has shown that we can best serve our community by banding together.” Colorado West Land Trust received a grant from Great Outdoors Colorado and its resilient communities program to cover the costs associated with the merger. Bleiberg said the merger will strengthen land conservation in the region, including efforts to secure binding conservation easements with willing property owners that preclude development. The Colorado West Land Trust operates in a region that extends from the Grand Valley south to the San Juan
Mountains and Utah border east to the Blue Mesa Reservoir on the Gunnison River. That region includes all or parts of Mesa and Montrose counties as well as Delta, Gunnison, Ouray and San Miguel counties. The land trust has conserved a total of about 125,000 acres in those six counties. Palisade-area farmers founded what was at that time the Mesa Land Trust in 1980 to preserve agricultural lands in the Grand Valley. More than 40 family farming operations in the Palisade area since have been preserved through the trust. The Colorado Land Trust also was involved in efforts to conserve the Three Sisters, a popular biking and hiking area near the Colorado National Monument in the Grand Valley, as well as the 680-acre Johnson Ranch on Glade Park. F
Federal agencies streamline process to apply to forgive small PPP loans
A new form has been released to streamline the process for applying for forgiveness of loans of $50,000 or less issued through the Paycheck Protection Program. The U.S. Small Business Administration joined with the Treasury Department in announcing the action. The SBA and Treasury Department also have eased burdens on lenders to enable them to process forgiveness applications more quickly. SBA began approving PPP forgiveness applications and remitting forgiveness payments to PPP lenders for PPP borrowers on Oct. 2. The PPP provided 5.2 million loans worth a total of $525 billion to businesses in response to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. According to the SBA Colorado District Office, 2,751 loans worth a total of more than $81.7 million were issued in Mesa County “Today’s action streamlines the forgiveness process for PPP borrowers with loans of $50,000 or less and thousands of PPP lenders who worked around the clock to process loans quickly,” said Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. “We are committed to making the PPP forgiveness process as simple as possible while also protecting against fraud and misuse of funds. We continue to favor additional legislation to further simplify the forgiveness process.” SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza said her agency continues to support small businesses in the aftermath of the pandemic. “The Paycheck Protection Program has been an overwhelming success and served as an historic lifeline to America’s hurting small businesses and tens of millions of workers,” Carranza said. “The new form introduced today demonstrates our relentless commitment to using every tool in our toolbelt to help small businesses and the banks that have participated in this program.” F
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The Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce has once again earned recognition for its efforts to promote economic development. The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) presented the chamber a silver-level award as part of the annual Excellence in Economic Development awards program. With more than 5,000 members, the IEDC is the world’s largest organization serving economic development professionals. “The winners of IEDC’s Excellence in Economic Development awards represent the very best of economic development and exemplify the ingenuity, integrity and leadership that our profession Kenny McDonald strives for each and every day,” said Kenny McDonald, chairman of the IEDC board of directors. “We’re honored to recognize the more than 100 communities whose marketing campaigns, projects and partnerships have measurably improved regional quality of life,” McDonald said. The Grand Junction chamber won the award in the Innovation in Economic Development Week category for its efforts celebrating local leaders of economic development. In addition to proclamations from Mesa County and the cities of Grand Junction and Fruita, the observance this year included webinars presented by the Grand Junction, Fruita and Palisade chambers. Virtual celebrations focused on economic development, economic developers, why people should support economic development and how people can become champions of economic development. The IEDC has recognized chamber campaigns for four consecutive years. “We are extremely proud to be recognized for the fourth consecutive year by the International Economic Development Council for our Innovation in Economic Development Week campaigns,” according to a statement from the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce. “We work hard each and every day to highlight our businesses, partnerships and community collaboration to continually ensure the Grand Valley is a great place to do business.” The IEDC received more than 500 award nominations, which were judged by a panel of economic and community developers. F
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training
A new program will offer training to teachers and students on geographic information systems and other topics. Heidi Ragsdale — a science, engineering, technology and math educator and advocate — will establish the GeoMaker Institute at the GJmakerspace at the Business Incubator Center in Grand Junction. A grant from the National Geographic Society will establish the program. Ragsdale is a member of the National Geographic Teacher Advisory Council. Grant support will extend to areas in Colorado as well as Arizona, New Mexico and Utah to offer STEM and GIS programs. “It is so imperative that teachers and students have access and opportunities to build the explorer mindset as engaged citizens,” Ragsdale said. “The GeoMaker Institute will engage youth to solve local, regional and global concerns by learning industry tools and applications,” Ragsdale said. “I am incredibly honored to help bring industry tools to the fingertips of our region’s students through engagement with real geographic inquiry,” she added. The GJmakerspace will serve as the host site for in-person and online training for teachers as well as students in fifth through 12th grades. Ragsdale will host a series of geographic information system and maker education classes. She’ll receive support from Wayne Wall, a GJmakerspace and workforce innovation program educator who’ll serve as co-director of the project. Joe Elliott, the director of the GJmakerspace, said he’s excited about the effort. “Hosting the GeoMaker Institute at the GJmakerspace is an honor,” Elliott said. “The program has our support through use of our tool sets in developing and designing geotechnology innovations and solutions.” The GJmakerspace offers equipment, classes and other resources to help entrepreneurs, inventors, scientists, artists and others to develop products and services. F
FOR YOUR INFORMATION The GJmakerspace is located at the Business Incubator Center at 2591 Legacy Way in Grand Junction. For additional information, call 243-5242 or visit https://gjincubator.org/ gj-makerspace.
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Coalition warns of tax hike if Gallagher repeal rejected Small businesses in Colorado could face higher taxes next year under provisions of a state constitutional amendment, a small business advocacy group warns. But the so-called Gallagher Amendment, including a provision resetting its formula in 2021, could be repealed under Amendment B, a measure on the November election ballot. “What has been sold to the public as a tax cut is actually a major tax increase, with small businesses and other employers footing most of the bill,” said Tony Gagliardi, Colorado director of the National Federation of Tony Gagliardi Independent Business. “Gallagher doesn’t really cut taxes anymore. It forces local governments to shift taxes and allows the state to dodge responsibility for all the damage this causes. In the end, local communities and local businesses are left holding the bag.” Approved in 1982, the Gallagher Amendment sets different assessment rates on residential and nonresidential property in Colorado so that residential property owners pay 45 percent of total property taxes statewide, while nonresidential owners pay 55 percent. The NFIB joined with chambers of
commerce in Boulder and Colorado Springs as well as Colorado Concern in issuing a report about the effects of resetting the Gallagher Amendment formula in 2021. According to the report, the change will result in property tax across Colorado as a result of adjustable or automatic mill levies voters approved to limit budget cuts to education, public safety and other services. Using estimates from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs and a review of historical property tax trends, the report estimates an immediate property tax increase of $254.1 million to $270.2 million on small businesses due to mill levy increases automatically triggered by the Gallagher Amendment. For all property owners, property taxes would increase an estimated $975.7 million over a one- to three-year period as local governments respond to shrinking property tax bases, according to the report. Rachel Beck, vice president of government affairs for the Colorado Springs Chamber and Economic Development Commission, said a tax increase could be hidden across hundreds of taxing authorities across Colorado. “If we do nothing, the Gallagher tax’s punishing impact on job creation and business investment will only prolong Colorado’s recovery from the COVID-19 recession.” F
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Lynnsey Munroe repurposes a variety of things to display plants at her shop in downtown Grand Junction. Munroe hopes to expand the operation to offer more plants and more rare plants as well as classes on growing plants. (Business Times photo by Phil Castle)
Plants
Continued from page 4 That’s not to mention the gratification that accompanies gardening, only on a smaller scale and indoors, Munroe said. “It’s a different kind of gardening.” Munroe said she’s collected and cared for plants for most of her life. “I’ve always loved plants.” She obtained a nursery license and started selling plants online. In August, she opened her shop. Sales have increased in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, she said, as people look for activities they can pursue at home. Munroe brings to her venture not only her knowledge of caring for plants, but also her experience in photography and marketing. She’s taken photographs of furnishings and a variety of other products — and now the plants she grows and sells. She also brings her training and experience in fine arts to decorating her shop. Various materials have been repurposed to display plants — including old chairs that hang on walls to serve as shelves. With vivid colors everywhere, she described the setting as a mix of beauty and chaos. Munroe said she hopes to expand the operation at her shop to offer more plants as well as rarer plants. She also hopes to offer classes on various aspects of caring for plants. It’s all part of an effort to help others develop green thumbs, she said. But for those who thumbs remain brown or even black for now, Munroe offers plants and knowledge to help them succeed. F
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Outlook
Continued from page 2 Retail spending has rebounded to near the levels before the pandemic hit, Sly said. Delinquency rates for payments on auto loans, credit cards and mortgages have remained low, he said. That could reflect consumers using their stimulus checks to make those payments. The Federal Reserve implemented what Sly said was a suite of actions in response to the pandemic by lowering a key short-term interest rate, encouraging bank lending and supporting the flow of credit. Still, there have been pronounced declines for the service sector, including hotels, restaurants and arts and entertainment venues. In Colorado, the declines could pose problems for tourism and hospitality, especially in mountain towns and ski resorts, he said. Looking ahead, business and economic conditions likely will change with the ebb and flow of the pandemic, Sly said. There’s disagreement among forecasters about the outlook, making uncertainty another variable. There are a number of risks, he said, including higher unemployment rates that inflict lasting economic damage. Declining labor demand could lower labor participation. A decrease in on-the-job training and loss of workplace skills could slow a rebound should hiring activity pick up. Inflation should remain subdued and under the 2 percent target rate set by the Federal Reserve, Sly said. Prices could accelerate faster for some goods, though, including meats and household appliances. F
Energy sector faces an uncertain future
The energy industry faces an uncertain future in the aftermath of declining fuel demand and lower prices triggered by the coronavirus pandemic, according to a commodity specialist with the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City. David Rodziewicz offered an energy sector overview as part of an online forum hosted by the bank. The energy sector experienced what Rodziewicz described as an historic demand shock that resulted in David Rodziewicz lower prices as well as financial stress that’s led to consolidations and bankruptcies. While there’s been some recovery, demand is projected to remain below 2019 levels until perhaps 2022, he said. Oil and natural gas drilling rig counts have dropped in the United States and Colorado, as has employment in the sector. The future will depend on what happens with the pandemic, how soon a vaccine is developed and whether or not people resume travel, Rodziewicz said. F
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Rack
Continued from page 2 serve as a model for collaborative efforts that create startups and provide real world experiences for CMU students. Wachs says QuikRStuff began when he was shopping for a bike rack. He was told to check out the 1Up Quick Rack developed by Phillips. Wachs says an internet search led him to Phillips and what was posted as an invitation to call him about licensing his designs and patents. Phillips subsequently came to Grand Junction to consider potential partners and facilities to manufacture bike racks, but opted instead for a licensing deal, Wachs says. Wachs brings to the venture his experience as chief executive officer of MySalesButler.com, an internet marketing company based in Grand Junction. Wachs says he joined in the effort with Westcott, who owns Intrawest Machine & Fabricating. Westcott brings to the venture not only a manufacturing facility, but also more than 30 years of metal working experience in the aerospace, energy and outdoor recreation sectors. That includes a stint as a senior manufacturing engineer for Hamilton Sundstrand in Singapore. Manufacturing bicycle racks will enable Intrawest to diversify its operation as well as keep employees on the payroll, Wachs says. The new Quik Rack Mach2 incorporates the improvements Phillips has made to his bike racks over the last 20 years, Wachs says. The Mach2 features a modular design that with add ons can carry up to four bikes. The rack installs on a hitch receiver in seconds without the use of any tools, he says. The Mach2 can accommodate mountain bikes, road bikes and fat tire bikes. But the rack also can accommodate the heavier electric bikes that are becoming increasingly popular, he says. QuikRStuff manufactured a first batch of 100 Mach2 racks, but sold those in three days, Wachs says. The company subsequently accepted payment for $290,000 in additional orders. Wachs says work is under way to acquire the machinery and ramp up production to fill those orders. Customers are willing to wait, he says, because many of them use the 1Up Quick Rack and know the Mach2 rack will offer a quality product. QuikRStuff received a $100,000 investment from the Greater Colorado Venture Fund at an event in which seven rural Colorado companies pitched for funding. Wachs is scheduled to pitch for venture capital at the Mountain Pitch Summit set for Oct. 28. In the meantime, QuikRStuff has worked with the Maverick Innovation Center and Business Incubator Center on launching the company. Wachs serves as entrepreneur in residence at the Maverick Innovation Center and enlisted the assistance of CMU students in engineering parts of the Mach2. A marketing intern has helped with customer service. See RACK page 20
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Rack
Continued from page 18 Wachs says it’s important to offer students opportunities to work for companies and gain real world experiences without having to leave the area. “All these things just came together,” he says. If everything proceeds as planned, Wachs envisions annual production of Mach2 racks reaching 10,000 to 20,000 units. That would mean the addition of 25 high-paying jobs within five years, he says. There’s also the potential for entering the European market, he says, although that likely would require a separate
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FOR YOUR INFORMATION For more information about QuikRStuff, visit the website at www.quikrstuff.com. manufacturing facility in that region. Encouraged by the response so far to QuikRStuff and its product, Wachs says he’s optimistic about the future. Now that he’s found a good bicycle rack, he says he’s looking forward to developing a good bicycle rack business. F
Benefactor
Continued from page 2 Davis subsequently devoted his efforts to not-for-profits, including health care and mental health initiatives in the Vail Valley of Colorado. He served as chairman of the Vail Valley Medical Center from 2004 to 2014. He was appointed to the CMU board of trustees earlier this year. In addition to his other philanthropic endeavors, Davis founded the Guardian Scholars program to provide scholarships and other support to students to enable them to earn college degrees. He expanded the program to more than 70 colleges and universities, including CMU.
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Foster said Davis’ investment in students also constitutes a long-term investment in the community. Davis said his financial contributions to CMU will continue to go to help students. In addition to the Guardian Scholars program, the Cody Lyster Memorial Scholarship will be named in honor of a CMU student who died of COVID-19. While Davis stressed the importance of what goes on in the building, he said he’s grateful to have his name associated with the school of business. “Thank you. I’m honored. What can I say? I’m a lucky guy.” F
News Trends Contributors Jobless rate declines Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac The Business Times
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INDICATORS AT A GLANCE
n Business filings
t New business filings in Colorado, 31,221 in the second quarter, down 1.7% from the second quarter of 2019.
n Confidence
s Consumer Confidence Index 101.8 in September, up 15.5. s Leeds Business Confidence Index for Colorado, 47.9 for the fourth quarter, up 3.6. s National Federation of Independent Business Small Business Optimism Index 104 for September, up 3.8.
n Foreclosures
t Foreclosure filings in Mesa County, 8 in September, down from 13 in September 2019. t Foreclosure sales in Mesa County, 3 in September, down from 5 in September 2019.
n Indexes
s Conference Board Employment Trends Index, 54.8 for September, up 1.5. s Conference Board Leading Economic Index 106.5 for August, up 1.2% t Institute for Supply Management Purchasing Managers Index for the manufacturing sector, 55.4% for September, down 0.6%.
n Lodging
t Lodging tax collections in Grand Junction, $135,823 for September, down 24.3% from September 2019.
n Real estate
s Real estate transactions in Mesa County, 566 in September, up 22.2% from September 2019. s Dollar volume of real estate transactions in Mesa County, $179 million in September, up 35.6% from September 2019.
n Sales
s Sales and use tax collections in Grand Junction, $5 million for September, up 1.4% from September 2019. s Sales and use tax collections in Mesa County, $3.6 million for September, up 6.8% from September 2019.
n Unemployment t Mesa County — 5.7% for September, down 0.5. t Colorado — 6.4% for September, down 0.3. t United States — 7.9% for September, down 0.5.
Latest estimates reflect improving labor conditions in Mesa County Phil Castle
four more than the same month last year. “September activity felt like a normal month.” Sept. Aug. The monthly unemployment rate Labor demand remains strongest in t Delta County 5.6 5.8 continued to retreat in Mesa County in health care, but there were job orders from t Garfield County 5.4 5.6 September even as the labor force grew to most sectors, he said. t Mesa County 5.7 6.2 its highest level in nearly eight years. Through the first three quarters of t Montrose County 5.3 5.5 Those diverging 2020, 4,585 job orders were posted. That’s t Rio Blanco County 4.5 4.8 trends reflect improving down more than 22 percent from the same labor conditions in a span in 2019. county that’s generally fared better than others A total of 141 new filings for unemployment insurance were in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, said filed in Mesa County in September, three more than the same Curtis Englehart, director of the Mesa County month last year. Through the first three years of 2020, 10,164 new Workforce Center in Grand Junction. “It’s filings were reported. That’s a more than a five-fold increase over really good to have another solid month for the same span in 2019, Englehart attributed to the pandemic. Mesa County.” Looking ahead, Englehart said he expects the jobless rate to According to the latest estimates from continue to decline through the end of the year as holiday hiring Curtis Englehart the Colorado Department of Labor and increases. Employment, the seasonally unadjusted unemployment rate in Mesa The outlook also depends, though, on the extent and effects of County dropped a half point to 5.7 percent in September. That’s still an increase in COVID-19 cases in Mesa County, Englehart said. more than double the 2.8 percent rate jobless rate posted at this time “Hopefully, we can stay on top of that.” last year, one of the lowest on record for the county. As of Oct. 19, Mesa County Public Health reported 1,053 For September 2020, Mesa County payrolls increased 2,403 to positive cases of COVID-19, including 301 cases in the past two 74,947. The number of people counted among those unsuccessfully weeks. Six deaths have been attributed to COVID-19 since the looking for work decreased 284 to 4,535. onset of the pandemic. The labor force, which includes the employed and unemployed, Seasonally unadjusted unemployment rates also decreased in grew 2,119 to 79,482. That’s one of the highest levels since the labor neighboring Western Colorado counties in September: two-tenths force topped 80,000 in 2012. of a point to 5.6 percent in Delta County, 5.4 percent in Garfield Compared to a year ago, payrolls dropped 412. The ranks County and 5.3 percent in Montrose County. The jobless rate of the unemployed more than doubled at 2,395. The labor force retreated three-tenths of a point to 4.5 percent in Rio Blanco County. increased 1,983. The statewide seasonally adjusted unemployment rate Since hitting 12.6 percent in April, the jobless rate has decreased three-tenths of a point to 6.4 percent. dropped nearly seven points. Nonfarm payrolls increased 13,400 from August to September Englehart said Mesa County has fared better than other areas of with gains spread out across a number of industry sectors. Since Colorado in the midst of the pandemic and been able to implement May, Colorado has regained 194,100 of the 342,300 jobs lost less stringent public health orders. That’s helped business and in between February and April. Compared to a year ago, payrolls turn employment, he said. “It feels like we’re open. It feels like have decreased 134,300. we’re getting back to a little sense of normalcy.” The average workweek for employees on private, nonfarm A measure of labor demand — the number of job orders posted payrolls shortened 1.3 hours over the past year to 32.8 hours. at the Mesa County Workforce Center — also has rebounded, Average hourly earnings increased 31 cents to $31.10. Englehart said. For September, 597 job orders were posted. That’s F The Business Times
AREA JOBLESS RATES
Sales tax collections up, lodging taxes down Tax collections continue to rise in the Grand Valley, one indicator of increasing retail sales activity. The City of Grand Junction reported a 1.4 percent increase in sales and use tax collections in September compared to the same month last year. Mesa County reported a 6.8 percent year-over-year gain. Meanwhile, though, city lodging tax collections, a measure of hotel and motel stays, dropped 24.3 percent. September collections reflect August activity. The city collected a total of more than $5 million in sales and use taxes, an increase of $70,280 over September 2019. A 1 percent increase in sales tax collections more than offset a 24.8 percent decrease in use tax collections, a smaller and more volatile revenue source. The county collected a total of more than $3.6 million in sales and use taxes, an increase of nearly $231,000 over September 2019. Sales tax collections rose 2.9 percent. Use tax collections — most on automobiles purchased outside the county, but used in the county — jumped 54.6 percent. County tax collections on retail sales increased 19.9 percent. Sales tax collections also increased on home improvements, but
decreased for the auto, hotel and restaurant and oil and natural gas categories. Through the first three quarters of 2020, city sales and use tax collections totaled more than $42 million, but lagged 3.5 percent behind the same span in 2019. Sales tax collections fell 3.5 percent, while use tax collections declined 42.9 percent. County sales and use tax collections through the first three quarters of 2020 totaled more than $29.6 million. That’s an increase of nearly $1 million and 3.4 percent over the same span in 2019. Sales tax collections rose nearly 4.6 percent. Use tax collections fell 7.8 percent. County tax collections increased 19.3 percent on retail sales through the first three quarters of 2020 compared to same period in 2019. Collections also increased in the construction and home improvement categories, but decreased in the hotel and restaurant and oil and gas categories. Grand Junction collected $135,823 in lodging taxes in September. Through the first three quarters of 2020, lodging tax collections totaled nearly $774,000. That’s a decrease of nearly $461,000 and 37.3 percent compared to the same period in 2019. F
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OctOber 22-NOvember 11, 2020
Small Business Optimism Index trends upward
A measure of optimism among small business owners continues to increase on more upbeat expectations for an improving economy and higher earnings. The National Federation of Independent Business reported its Small Business Optimism Index rose 3.8 points to 104 in September, above the historical average of 100 for the 46-year-old index. Nine of 10 components of the index advanced between August and September. The NFIB bases the index on the results of monthly surveys of members of the small business advocacy group, most of them small business owners. The proportion of those responding to the survey upon which the September index was based who expect the economy to improve over the next six months rose eight points to a net 32 percent. A net 28 percent reported plans to make capital outlays, up two points. A net 13 percent said they consider how a good time to expand, up a point. The share of those who reported higher earnings rose 13 points. But at a net negative 12 percent, more still reported lower than higher earnings. A net 8 percent of those responding to the survey reported higher sales, up five points. A net 23 percent reported plans to increase staffing, up two points. A net 36 percent reported hard-to-fill job openings. F
Trends Contributors Opinion Equal opportunities Business Briefs Business People Almanac
OctOber 22-NOvember 11, 2020
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COMING ATTRACTIONS
n A free webinar offering information about building relationships with bankers is set for 9 to 10 a.m. Oct. 27. For more information, visit the website located at www.grandjunctionsbdc.org/recovery. n The Business Incubator Center in Grand Junction has scheduled presentations on startups and bookkeeping. The next session of a business startup workshop is set for 1 to 3:30 p.m. Nov. 4 at the center, 2591 Legacy Way. A two-part webinar on how to start a business is set for 9 to 10:30 a.m. Nov. 18 and 19. The workshop and webinar will cover the business planning process, financing and other topics. Admission is $55, which includes admission to Fast Trac classes. The next bookkeeping boot camp is set for 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 17 at the center. Participants will learn how to set up and track business accounting records as well as learn how balance sheets, income statements and cash flow projections are prepared and what they indicate about business operations. Admission is $75, which includes lunch. For more information about upcoming events, services and programs offered at the Business Incubator Center, call 243-5242 or visit the website at www.gjincubator.org. n The Fruita and Palisade chambers of commerce will host a free conversation with local leaders. The event, called Communities Over Coffee, is set for 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Nov. 12 at Timberline Bank, located at 649 Market St. in Grand Junction. Participants at the event are scheduled to include Kayla Brown, executive director of the Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce; Andrew Weber, executive director of the Palisade Chamber of Commerce; Robin Brown, executive director of the Grand Junction Economic Partnership, Fruita Mayor Joel Kincaid and Grand Junction Mayor Duke Wortmann. For more information, call the Fruita chamber at 858-3894 or Palisade chamber at 464-7458 or visit the websites located at www.fruitachamber.org or www.palisadecoc.com.
HR professionals play key role in creating equitable workplaces This summer, the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) issued the results of a study on the persistence of racial inequity in the workplace. Titled “The Journey to Equity and Inclusion,” the study revealed that 49 percent of Black HR professionals said discrimination based on race or ethnicity exists in their workplaces in contrast to only 13 percent of their white colleagues. Over a third of Black workers said they experienced discriminatory or unsafe working conditions. Black and white workers alike said their workplaces aren’t Carlene doing enough to promote racial justice. Goldthwaite SHRM issued a challenge to its more than 200,000 members in the United States to take steps to create more equitable workplaces. As part of a multi-phase response to this challenge, the Western Colorado Human Resource Association included a diversity, equity and inclusion track in its fall conference. Speakers shared their workplace experiences as members of traditionally marginalized groups, including people of color, those with disabilities and those on the LGBTQIAA++ spectrum. John Register, a Black Paralympic silver medalist, encouraged those attending the conference to remain aware of overt and hidden biases that perpetuate injustice in the workplace. Institutionalized discriminatory practices include a lack of opportunity in hiring, promotions or skill development. People of color or other marginalized groups also encounter interpersonal barriers or microaggressions. They’re left out of projects or face slights, inappropriate jokes or a culture that expects workers to “get over it” when treated unfairly. The SHRM TogetherForward@Work initiative encourages and equips business leaders and HR professionals with diversity, equity and inclusion policy and plan templates, webinars, self-assessments and conversation starters. Johnny Taylor, chief executive officer of SHRM, will work with the U.S. Department of Justice in implementing an executive order on combating race and sex stereotyping. Taylor will join in an effort to help HR professionals understand new training requirements for federal contractors.
Institutionalized discriminatory practices include a lack of opportunity in hiring, promotions or skill development. People of color or other marginalized groups also encounter interpersonal barriers or microaggressions. They’re left out of projects or face slights or inappropriate jokes. Locally, WCHRA continued its diversity, equity and inclusion journey with a presentation titled “Recognizing Hidden Bias” scheduled for an Oct. 21 monthly meeting. In managing businesses, leaders review data, talk with stakeholders and perform due diligence, yet find individuals’ hidden biases affect those decisions. Having biases is part of being human, and helpful biases allow people to navigate successfully in the world. But unhelpful or harmful biases can get in the way and impose significant effects. Adrian Lara, lead regional training coordinator for the Kempe Center and CEO of Compass Coaching, was scheduled to share his insights on recognizing hidden bias. Lara was scheduled to define different types of bias, discuss how biases can be both helpful and harmful and detail how to mitigate the effects of harmful bias in business decisions. Lara said he’s passionate about making changes that reconfigure patriarchy and white supremacy to create workplaces where every employee has an opportunity to succeed. Carlene Goldthwaite is president of Create Real Growth and provides expertise to organizational leaders on diversity, inclusion, intentional culture and strategic planning. Goldthwaite also serves as director of diversity, equity and inclusion for the Western Colorado Human Resource Association. For more information about Create Real Growth, visit www.createrealgrowth.com. For more information about the Western Colorado Human Resource Association, visit www.wchra.org. F
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OctOber 22-NOvember 11, 2020
Care about people and give them a good experience With every interaction and transaction, a business gives its customers a good, neutral or bad feeling. The last two have no place in a thriving company. The first is the key to happiness and success. You probably recall some experiences as a consumer that left you with a good, if not a great, feeling. The money and time you spent was well worth it, and you walked away with a positive, satisfied and happy feeling. The value you received during these interactions with companies engendered loyalty and repeat business. You’ve also likely engaged Marcus businesses that left you wishing you’d Straub never walked through their doors. You received poor customer service, purchased an inferior product or encountered uncaring or bad attitudes. Even if your experience was a neutral one — not bad, but not great either — the trust and loyalty so vital to nurture in customers wasn’t nurtured in you. What business can afford the negative effects on its customers, and therefore bottom line, from bad experiences? No matter the economic environment, customers matter. And the unhappy ones tend to exert far greater negative effects on your reputation and business success. Where does the quality of the experiences your customers receive start? If you answered at the top, with you, the business owner, you’re correct. You’re the leader of your company. This means your team members take their cues for behavior and performance from you. Your attitude and behaviors set the standard for your organization. When the owners of a business truly care about people, they endeavor to provide team members and customers alike
Where does the quality of the experiences your customers receive start? If you answered at the top, with you, the business owner, you’re correct.
the best experiences possible. These leaders understand that when their teams feel good about the companies they work for, they impart those good feelings to customers through positive attitudes and exceptional customer service. These leaders know their well-chosen and highly trained staffs will follow their lead and strive to give each and every customer a great experience. The wisest business owners — those who lead rather than boss — hire people with good skills and, even more importantly, caring and positive attitudes. In addition, these leaders create and maintain uplifting and supportive work environments that foster the positive attitudes of their fellow team members. By doing so, engagement goes up and team members feel they’re part of a team that consistently delivers a positive experience to each customer. Along the road of business, you’ll encounter team members who prove unable or unwilling maintain positive and caring attitudes. In these cases, your best choice is to let these bad apples go. Negative team members are like a cancer within any organization, damaging the moral of the teams, diminishing customer relations and ultimately hurting businesses. You’ll also encounter customers who are never satisfied no matter how well you serve them. They’ll always find something to complain about and some reason to bring negativity into your business. Just like negative
and uncaring team members, toxic customers must be let go. Otherwise, you risk contaminating the positive experience your company provides and subjecting your team members to unjust treatment. Give yourself and your business the gift of an honest self-appraisal. If you find your leadership style, team, work environment or customer service could benefit from the support of a qualified coaching professional, take the next step and invest in your excellence. The success of your company and happiness of everyone involved is on the line. Most team members and customers have attitudes that contribute to positive two-way experiences. When you hire people with great attitudes and then supply them with training, support and a positive work environment, you’ve set the stage for exceptional customer service — the kind that leaves customers feeling great about your business. In return for receiving a good feeling from your business, the customers you serve will be fiercely loyal to your brand. They’ll refer potential new customers and might even help in countering any aspersions you’re experiencing. All of this affects the bottom line of your business. This will result in more sales and a feeling of accomplishment in providing a consistently high-quality experience. Marcus Straub owns Life is Great Coaching in Grand Junction. His personalized coaching and consulting services help individuals, business owners, executives and companies build teams, organizations and lives filled with happiness and success. Straub is winner of the International Coach of the Year Award and author of “Is It Fun Being You?” He’s available for free consultations regarding coaching, speaking and trainings. Reach Straub at 208-3150, marcus@lifeisgreatcoaching.com or through the website located at www.lifeisgreatcoaching.com. F
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Timing right for employees to upskill and reskill Working from home has become the “new normal” and likely could remain that way for many more months. But if working remotely presents challenges requiring new or revised skills, what better time to provide staff with training and opportunities to build those skills? Remote work has probably emphasized areas where employees might benefit from new or improved soft skills. Providing staff with the opportunities and encouragement to try something new or enhance existing skills benefit employers and employees. Perhaps your industry requires continuing education. During the course of “normal” work, it’s often Janet difficult to carve out time to attend Arrowood in-person sessions. But during a remote working situation, numerous online courses meet continuing education requirements, improve employee skills and knowledge and save money compared to in-person training. The same applies to the various certifications, designations and licenses available in many industries. Now is the perfect time to encourage and support employees who want or would benefit from working on one of these upskills. For example, engineers who’ve completed their Engineer in Training (EIT) might pursue their Professional Engineer (PE) designation. Human resources specialists could start or complete their efforts to obtain the Professional in Human Resources or Senior PHR designations. For those working in financial services and insurance, there are numerous upskilling opportunities, including
Perhaps your industry requires continuing education. During the course of “normal” work, it’s often difficult to carve out time to attend in-person sessions. But during a remote working situation, numerous online courses meet continuing education requirements, improve employee skills and knowledge and save money compared to in-person training.
the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation and additional securities or insurance licenses as well as such specialist certifications as Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) or Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU). For accountants, there are several options, including the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Enrolled Agent (EA) designations. Other valuable certifications include the foundation, practitioner or professional certifications for proposal managers and Project Management Professional (PMP) designation. All of these can be earned online. For general education, GEDs or other professional education opportunities, there are numerous online course available through local and national colleges and universities. It’s possible in many cases to arrange special sessions or courses for just your employees and tailor the
materials to meet your company or organization needs. Any of the preceding training and continuing education and many other licenses, designations and certifications can be obtained through professional, experienced, accredited online providers. As an example, a simple internet search of human resources certifications, insurance certifications, securities continuing education or accounting professional education will return hundreds of results. Once you’ve identified some potential resources or trainers, check with professional associations, the Better Business Bureau and states in which the offeror is registered to verify they’re real and provide quality training the appropriate industries recognize. Now is also a great time to have your staff reskill by learning the latest versions of a software package or providing management training to enable supervisors to keep up with industry trends and changes. You might also consider retooling the portfolio of a sales representative into a marketing coordinator or revising the role of an entry level human resources professional to become the organization’s customer relationship manager and arranging appropriate remote learning to build the right skills. The possibilities for upskilling and reskilling are endless. The resources are readily available. The tailored or enhanced skills are vital to your business success, employees value training and the timing is perfect. Janet Arrowood is founder and managing director of the Write Source, a Grand Junction-based firm that offers a range of services, including grant and proposal writing, instruction and technical writing. Reach her at janet.arrowood@thewritesourceinc.com. For more information, visit www.TheWriteSourceInc.com. F
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A way to provide better health care at a lower cost Monument Health
Chances are, you’ll hear more about value-based health care as the term gains popularity in the days and weeks ahead. Better still, you’ll probably receive value-based care right here in the Grand Valley. Hospitals, primary care providers and specialists across the valley are committed to providing value-based care. Monument Health, a clinically integrated health care network in Western Colorado, has been a proud catalyst for its growth and delivery. That’s because value-based care leads to healthier individuals, and healthier individuals lead to healthier communities. That means fewer acute care and unnecessary emergency room visits, less waste in the health care system overall and, in turn, more affordable care for patients. What is value-based care? Value-based care is simply this: an agreement that rewards providers when they do a good job caring for their patients. Providers are no longer paid for the number of patients they see — a situation that could leave patients feeling rushed and unheard or, worse, sitting in a waiting room for hours because providers are overscheduled to meet their daily quotas. Rather, value-based care incentivizes the health care system to help patients live healthier lives and reduce the effects of chronic disease. Value-based care is evidencebased. Providers must prove they meet the positive health outcomes for their patients by using data. Value-based health care requires collaboration. Monument Health provides the framework for this collaboration by bringing together hospitals, providers, specialists and insurers to improve communication, reduce redundant and unnecessary procedures and, ultimately, provide better, more comprehensive care. Value-based care looks at the whole person. When it’s
Often there are less acute care cases because patients are healthier. There are shorter hospital stays and fewer visits to the emergency room, the most expensive stop for routine care. These factors amount to more efficient spending, less waste in the health care system and savings to providers, employers and patients. done well, value-based care incorporates population health management. More commonly and certainly catchier, population health management also is referred to as “pop health.” From helping individuals manage diabetes, offering smoking cessation classes or teaching children how to set fitness goals and make healthy snacks to reduce childhood obesity, pop health goes one step beyond value-based care by offering preventive solutions. Through its team of wellness warriors, Monument Health works with employer groups like Hilltop Community Resources to teach pop health to employees to help them live their healthiest lives. Monument Health provides classes teaching employees where to go for care — from the most expensive to the most affordable. Because collaborative, comprehensive care for patients is part of the goal in value-based care, benefits abound for providers, employers and hospitals to pursue this new way of doing business.
Behavioral health specialists — also referred to as mental health specialists — are available to help patients during their routine health checkups to identify and treat any mental health conditions before they worsen. Often there are less acute care cases because patients are healthier. There are shorter hospital stays and fewer visits to the emergency room, the most expensive stop for routine care. These factors amount to more efficient spending, less waste in the health care system and savings to providers, employers and patients. The benefits of value-based care paired with pop health for the patient are self-evident. This model of doing business is warm, personable and helps people live their best lives. By providing whole-person, integrated care and teaching real life skills focused on prevention and better health, patients experience the immediate value of valuebased care. Whole-person, valued-based health care leads to healthier people and, ultimately, healthier communities. Monument Health will continue to serve as a catalyst for this type of health care in Western Colorado because this approach embraces collaboration, education, prevention and — thanks to integration — high-quality services at lower costs. And lower costs offer a welcome breath of fresh air when it comes to quality health care. Monument Health is a clinically integrated health care network established in Western Colorado in 2016 to deliver more comprehensive, integrated care to its members. Monument Health guarantees access to a primary care provider. Its team of wellness warriors are available to answer your questions at (970) 683-5630. For more information, visit www.monumenthealth.net. F
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OctOber 22-NOvember 11, 2020
A place for comfort, cleanliness and community I recently faced some tough questions from a friend who’s also a local business owner. After the conversation, I took some time to reflect on how the coronavirus pandemic has affected me personally, my business and the fitness industry as a whole. Personally, I learned there’s no handbook on how to handle life so different from those we lived less than a year ago. Instead of making lists, going to work and keeping busy, I learned to take time for the important things. That includes caring for myself through exercise and proper nutrition and connecting with others through phone calls and emails. Evaluating my busy life, I learned to Paula ask some important questions. What Reece am I spending my time on? Why am I working on it? Does it really make a difference? The answers prompted me to make changes at work and at home. On March 17, when my husband, Dale, and I locked up Crossroads Fitness, turned off the lights and lowered the shades, the feeling was somber. Our business became empty rooms and hallways. It was then I had a revelation. This is just a building. Without our friends, staff and
Our team came together to make sure we could offer a place of comfort, cleanliness and community. Life and excitement came back. What an incredible feeling.
countless loyal members, it’s just a building. People and relationships are by far the most important things in our lives. It’s when the two come together in one place it becomes inspiring and motivating. While we did our best to stay connected to our members through weekly emails, Facebook posts, online classes and trainer tips, nothing can take the place of being together. Reopening wasn’t easy. It was scary, in fact. But our team came together to make sure we could offer a place of comfort, cleanliness and community. Life and excitement came back. What an incredible feeling. As much as I hate to write this, it was a feeling I once took for granted, but never will again. There are many who remain fearful to come back. Honoring those who have different fears, expectations or
beliefs is the only way to truly care about others. During the closure, I spent countless hours tuning into webinars from industry experts who tried to shed some light on what was going on and how to best take care of our biggest assets — our staff and members. The fact there were so many like me going through this tough time made it somehow easier to accept. While the fitness industry has taken a significant blow, as have many other sectors, I applaud the industry for working diligently to overcome obstacles and to continue promoting the health and wellness of our communities. Along with our local leaders, the industry provides guidance to help steer our business into the future. Who knows where this journey will lead. There’s no clear path through the woods. At times, it feels as though there’s no clearing on the other side. But there is a path, and we will find it. In the meantime, take care of yourself, reach out to others and know you live in a caring community. Paula and Dale Reece own Crossroads Fitness Centers in Grand Junction with a downtown location at 225 N. Fifth St. and north location at 2768 Compass Drive. For more information, call 242-8746 or log on to the website at www.crossroadsfitness.com. F
Sale-leaseback offers one way to raise cash for a business Are you experiencing a temporary slump in cash flow because your business closed or was significantly affected by the coronavirus pandemic? If you own the real estate in which you operate your business, then a sale-leaseback could offer a cash infusion. There’s still lots of private money out there searching for good commercial real estate investments. With government bonds and bank savings rates at ridiculously low interest levels, investors who want better returns are willing to take on Tim more risk. Whitney Under a sale-leaseback, the owner of a building in which he or she runs a business sells the property and agrees to lease back the building — usually for a minimum of 10 years. Sale-leaseback deals have been around a long time
Under a sale-leaseback, the owner of a building in which he or she runs a business sells the property and agrees to lease back the building — usually for a minimum of 10 years. and offer advantages to seller/tenants and buyer/landlords. For the seller/tenant, it’s a quick path to cash that can be put back into the business without giving up the use of the building. In addition, the seller/tenant extracts almost all the equity from the building rather than 75 percent or less with a conventional loan. That’s not to mention the fees and other costs associated with debt financing. What’s more, the balance sheet of the business looks better since it no longer shows the debt on the building. And if it’s an operating lease — meaning it meets Financial Accounting
Standards Board rules — the balance sheet generally just shows the current year lease obligations. The buyer/landlord benefits from a good return on a relatively safe long-term investment and enjoys tax savings in the form of depreciation. While these types of transactions might appear relatively easy, there’s the potential for problems to arise in dealing with both purchase contracts and triple net lease agreements. Check with your accountant and lawyer prior to initiating a sale-leaseback transaction to make sure it’s a viable solution for your particular situation. Tim Whitney is managing broker of Coldwell Banker Commercial Prime Properties, a commercial brokerage and property management firm based in Grand Junction. Whitney has been involved in the sale, lease and management of commercial real estate in Colorado for more than 35 years. For more information, call (970) 243-7375 or visit the website at www.CBCPrimeProperties.com. F
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Contributors Opinion Bold 2015 Apple predictions doesn’t fall farfor from the tree A new affords Time toyear demonstrate Business...more Briefs with yournot-so-bold family or yourrepeats party like servant leadership a new opportunity Business People Almanac to meet local needs THE he BUSINESS usiness T T Times IMES
PAGE age 30 22
It’s always an interesting task to answer the office telephone because you never know who’s going to be on the other end or where the conversation might lead. Sure. Far too many times it’s a recording reminding me to extend car warranty. But other A new year almost alwaysmy brings an opportunity for times, a freshthere start are andreal on the line pitching story ideas — not only about renewed ambition topeople do things better. businesses, but also other businesses with which they’re In business, thattheir usually boils down to providing customers better products familiar. I remain opencompetitors. to and grateful suggestions. and services faster and at lower cost than Partfor of these the process must Many of what I considerwhat the best to need appear in then the include listening to customers to determine theystories actually and Business a phone call or email. meeting that need. After all, itTimes does originated little good with to offer the latest and greatest if Oneyou’re recent selling. suggestion came from Richard Quin, a Navy nobody actually wants what veteran in hisbelong 80s who wanted to the discuss what he considered Just like the businesses that to the group, Grand Junction Area an important Thatyear members Congress of Chamber of Commerce invariablyidea. startsHis outidea? the new with aof reassessment donateitpart of their wages help citizens the members midst of the the services and resources provides and how to well they matchinwith Phil Castle pandemic andchamber related economic downturn. needs. Jeff Franklin,coronavirus the new chairman of the board of directors, timing is right, not only because of the personifies this approachThe in describing what he he said, considers his role for the coming troubles so many people determine face, but also impending election. Moreover, year: listen to members, theirthe needs and then meet those needs. Donald It’s a Trump could have some leverage in as challenging members Congress to donate role with which Franklin is familiar market president of of Bank of Colorado. part The of their salaries president contributes his.in what the chamber process willbecause take on the a more structured approach notion is an interesting one ifaptly you called do the Listening math. Most plansThe as the resumption of a program to representatives Business. Underand the senators $174,000 year. Counting 435 representatives another 100 to program,make business ownersa participate in in-depth interviews toand identify barriers senators, that’s 535 total members of Congress. Multiply $174,00 by 535 and the growth and other problems they encounter. product million. Theexceeds new year$93 offers a good time to join the proverbial club. Of that’s aorproverbial dropdoinyou the need bucket compared to federal stimulus As course, an advertiser reader, what from the Business Times? packages top $1 journals trillion. But it’s also what could considered a symbolic start. Whilethat business traditionally gather andbe report the relevant news to Looking at the bigger picture, I’m not so much street. interested in members readers, communication isn’t necessarily a one-way That’s especiallyof true as Congress a part their salariesmore to help others. Although Web sites donating and e-mail makeofthe dialogue convenient than ever.that would be a Good nice gesture. Moreover, suspect probably at leasttosome level of publications don’t Iexist in a there’s vacuum. They respond the needs of philanthropy among ourThey representatives and needed. senators. advertisers and readers. provide what’s What interests more is the idea of servant leadership. Members of So what do youme need? Congress don’t have tonews necessarily donate part of help theirkeep salaries. it would Is there additional coverage that would you But informed about be helpful if they would demonstrate servant leadership in putting the needs local business developments? Are there features that would be interesting or of constituents firstadvice and empowering them to lead better lives. useful? Is there that would make your jobs a little easier? It’s a concept that’s worked in With developing It’s equally important to ask well whatfor youbusinesses don’t need. limitedtop-performing time to teams motivated to serve customers as well as achieve company objectives. produce content and limited space in which to publish it, would time and space be Employees caretoabout what they better devoted something else?do for the company because there’s a sense their leaders care good? about What them. isn’t? What’s needed? What isn’t? What’s Maybe I’m hopelessly ButComment I remain online hopefulonnonetheless people would Let us know. Send us annaive. e-mail. the Business Times Web be divided and cynical about government in this country is there was aletter senseto siteless at www.thebusinesstimes.com. You could even write an old-fashioned their leaders caredlike. about them and not both just their votes. the editor if you’d Your feedback, positive and negative, is valued and still considered. far more that unites us than divides us. But we desperately need will There’s be carefully servant leaders in elected at alloflevels whothe areefforts willing putstaffs, aside the Good publications areoffices the result not only of to their but also pursuit of power — and especially party politics — to serve. collaborative efforts involving advertisers and readers. Like any other good business, we want to listen to our customers, find out Phil is editor themeet Business whatCastle they need and of then thoseTimes. needs.Reach him at phil@thebusinesstimes.com or 424-5133. It’s a new year. Please help us to do so. F ✦
THE BUSINESS TIMES
609 North Ave., Suite 2, Grand Junction, CO 81501 TEL (970) 424-5133 • FAX (970) 424-5134
Publisher/Owner: Craig R. Hall
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Subscribe or submit press releases online at www.thebusinesstimes.com The Grand Valley Business Times, a subsidiary of Hall Media Group LLC, is published twice monthly and distributed throughout Grand Junction, Fruita and Palisade. Advertising rates and deadlines are available upon request. Opinions expressed in this publication are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, editor, staff or advertisers. Copyright © 2015 — AllCopyright rights reserved. © 2020 — All rights reserved.
Sorry Lunch Bucket Joe, or whatever that time of when your It’s latest moniker is year in your latest attempt to resolutions and prognostications abound. show unsuspecting voters you’re a man of the My favorite saying applied to my New Year’s people. But this column reflects hope and resolutions is inand saying they’re basically prayer your past the past of your party a bunch of promises thea party first week has finally caught upto to break you and that’s of January. Andpart while I won’t predict a spent the better of your existence trying whole lot,freedom I can pretty much accurately to destroy and this country. nail aAtfew the things risk of that without question willlocal make the news. You will see these are the communist pretty, well, predictable: begging for another ■ Prediction advertising boycott,one: There willtobehighlight some I’m going sort of weather Democratic Partyevent, natural disaster positions over theoryears heinous occurrence in terms of the actions, where someone will institutions and ideals be interviewed it’s supported. and say the following: Obviously,“I’ve it was Craig Hall never seen the party of anything slavery. It like the thatparty in myof slavery was lifetime.” if this (and the only party to the pointIt’s of as secession CraigDonald Hall persontalking is a required today about it if President attendeewins at every news and destroying the Trump re-election) reportingnation event.onWhile I understand most greatest the planet in the 1860s. people’s perspective indeed be limited When secession didn’tcan work, Democrats by, or contained within, their own personal turned to the Ku Klux Klan to carry out its experiences, is too much to racist agenda itafter it lost the to warask it started. consultPresident some historical before When Ulysses perspective Grant took on the sayingitsuch a thing? thisCrow response Klan, morphed into Yes, the Jim era can apply to in some But when comes bringing pollevents. taxes, separate butitequal and to weather and natural racism. disasters, I’m pretty government-sponsored sure Most, this isifsimply repeating not all,history of the above was itself. Same as by it has for millions millions of defeated the party formed and committed years. More important, the planet made it! to ending slavery: the Republican Party. What didn’t certain species. How’s History showswere this in the Republican victories that for perspective? in winning the Civil War; electing the first ■ to Prediction When the it comes to a blacks Congress;two: relegating Klan to orleft-wing something thatofoccurs between acrime fringe, batch psychopaths; humans,citizenship the other required attendee passing amendments; and at all news reporting events the person who passing voting and civilisrights acts. Heck, says this: “They we’retoss justinthe nicest Republicans can even women’s people, and in no way the did budget I see something right to vote, balancing with the like this coming.” Exactly. Nocuts one that does Contract with America and tax most of economic the time when it in comes to us out of spurred growth getting neighbors and acquaintances. Democrat-policy recessions. People should be surprised at what on from time to Republicans got goes so good at many time in their neighborhoods, and of these — granted, the party towns is pretty with people they knowlevel because are feckless at the federal now people in allowing good. Andtofor the free times they shouldn’t criminals roam in that Washington — be shocked did — the likeonly withthing politicians, repeat Democrats they could offenders and terrorists — where’sParty’s the do. They co-opted the Republican interviewand thatagenda. says, “This doesn’t surprise victories But, alas, with all me in the least.” they took them too far and things Democrat, ■ Prediction three: Something overstepped constitutional power. good will happen economically, Democrats have takenand thethe Voting government takeanyone credit for it. The Rights Act towill mean at any timemost has recent example gas prices, where people the right to voteiswithout proving who one askMoreover, me why I won’t credit thevoting president is. they’ve taken into for lowrealm gas prices. My answer simple: the of finding magic isballots in truck Government neverand makes price of beds, auto trunks backthe storage rooms something go down andfollowing simply takes credit just in the nick of time election for good news. Gasparty pricing is subject to day to bring about wins. Democrats manytaken globalthe factors. Now there are equal have civil rights act beyond government to addressing some of rights for allanswers by creating specials rights them to keep prices near stableevery for Americans, for votes in darned arena they, but our of themOne in and onlygovernment they, definehas as none “minority.” place. The only things has in place in the of those “rights” is theitmassacre of babies
OctOber 22-N Ovember 11, 2015 2020 JANUARY 15-28,
known as Roe v. Wade, which should be longbane run and always hurt consumers. Another the embarrassment of our great fact is that unemployment reaches a certain nation to the Democrat party’s demise. levelToday, based it’s on the economy. And whiletothe multiple mail-in ballots government might brag the address number— is low, the same person at the same or it’s more than likely the—and government addresses in two states going todid the somethingCourt to cause that ballots numberdays being Supreme to count andlow — andafter not in goodclose way.whether Conversely, weeks theapolls post when businessorpicks up, it’s becausehave the people marked not. The Democrats found to buy widgets were not awho wayneed to make hate groupswho like the Klan buying widgets because economy “right-wing” racist threatsthe to our nationwas while contractingBLM due toand natural supporting Antifa(or as unnatural, these groups government reasons, decided we violate laws, caused) burn cities and hurt and even better buycitizens. some widgets. Thewant government kill other Democrats to defund had nothing to do want with this. police. Democrats to raise taxes because ■ Prediction four: In keepingare with the taxes from a thriving economy falling things the government does,our I predict the due to Democrats shuttering economy. governmentwant willto manipulate numbers Democrats mandate athe vaccine for ato makewhich the claim economy is getting virus — asthe time goes along during the better because of how — hard it is working to “pandemic” shutdown shows a help percent all of usplus “working Americans.” 99.9 recovery rate. It’s noNow you might say, “Craig, you say this wonder Democrats prefer to always be called about President— Obama because you don’t “Progressives” because Communists was like him.” right in a sense. I don’t by taken and isYou’re still fought against in America know of theus.man, but what I know some There’s so much moreof him and his thinking, I could don’t go likeinto. it orBut himforone anti-freedom thisiota. Before you off, however, like column, the go preceding is aboutI didn’t one point: President Bush his Biden. bailouts, stimulus This is how you and get Joe and his the because free market to save Youabandoning get Joe Biden no humans the free market. And I don’t know himof the with a sense of decency can be for all either. WhatParty the government does, and the Democratic platform without losing only thing it can is hurt economy. some of their souldo, each step the along the way. Unless it does nothing or put“poison criminals in Joe studied under the master fruit” jailthe instead of Ted partnering withJoe them, nothing of Senate, Kennedy. earned his the government will help. Always look bones destroyingdoes possibly the best candidate at itthe thisSupreme way, whatever theRobert government for Court in Bork —says to it ispoint doing, the name of the law it the ofwhatever making “Borking” a verb. is passing, or whatever the his name or goal of Joe took those lessons into personal, the bureaucracy it is presenting the “high-tech” lynching of ClarencetoThomas people, the polar opposite occur. — an actexpect so heinous it should havetogotten I guess what I’mSenate. saying is that Joe expelled from the perhaps it’s timehistostealing get out skills of ourvia own Joe honed perspective.across There’s history plagiarism hisplenty careerofalong with books meeting and historical researchhe outdidn’t there to never a tax increase beginHe’s to understand that of all inappropriate of this has love. been accused happenedand before. And it will again, touching sexual misconduct — whether the topic is people or government. sound familiar, Dems? He stood tall best recommendation with The segregationists and passedisa to find some books orincarcerated try that whole Google crime bill that blacks at an thing. There’s arate. lot of information onfew the unprecedented Other than these Great Depression. Thecareer truth has is itlittle wasn’t things, Joe’s political even aunless good one thepolitical government merit, one until counts gaffesgot involved. There’s also plenty Lastly, of research and extortion or pay-to-play. he’s on the period when the the manmedieval who willwarm shutter the country if planet was much warmer than today it means increasing Democratic Partywith a whole Joe lot less people (and warmer well control. is one bad apple. before man was at all). AndBiden’s yep, Speaking of here apples, Hunter people should have been killing laptop be the final other nail insurprised Joe’s people since history was actions first written. political coffin. Hunter’s are Maybeatsome researchofwill obviously the direction Joe.help Anystop all of these Otherwise,Sadly, we’ll Joe’s be decent man trends. would withdraw. saying we’ve never seen anything like it in not. our lives. in for a good And IAnd can’tnot vote him way. or his party. publisher of of the the Craig Hall is owner and publisher Business Times. Times. Reach Reach him at 424-5133 publisher@thebusinesstimes.com. or publisher@thebusinesstimes. ✦ F
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Proposition 113 brings to ballot a vote over voting Vote no to keep Colorado votes in Colorado Colorado has seen great economic growth and business diversity throughout the last few years across the state, including parts of Western Colorado. The reason businesses want to relocate, expand or start in Colorado is based on a variety of tools in our economic development toolbox that help businesses. Coloradans also enjoy a low income tax rate (hopefully to Rose decrease if approved Pugliese by the voters on the November ballot) and generally business-friendly policies. Colorado’s low-tax and businessfriendly environment is at risk if the National Popular Vote Compact is passed. The threat to the economic stability and vitality of our Colorado businesses is precisely why more than 31 boards of county commissioners and chambers of commerce from across the state, including our local Grand Junction and Fruita chambers, are opposed to the national popular vote. During the 2019 session, the Legislature passed, with bipartisan opposition, and the governor signed into law a bill that gives Colorado’s nine electoral college votes for president to a compact of states known as the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact. Along with Mayor Don Wilson of Monument and more than 2,200 grassroots volunteers, I helped lead a statewide referendum effort to put the question on the November ballot. The states leading the compact are of no surprise to any of us: California and New York. In fact, at one point, 98 percent of funding for the proponents of the National Popular Vote came from California. Make no mistake about it: California really, really wants Colorado’s votes for president. If you look at the map of the states in the National Popular Vote Compact, they are all blue states with high tax policies
and unfriendly business environments. If the National Popular Vote Compact is successful, these states will have the most influence over national business policy as they will chose our next president. Colorado has had the ability to have conversations with presidential candidates on both side of the political aisle on important national policy issues — such as transportation, infrastructure and water, all key components of Colorado’s diverse economy. They have traveled around our state and made visits even to Grand Junction. Why would we want to give our voice and vote away to higher population states, like California and New York? Colorado would account for 1.8 percent of the national population. Our influence would be substantially diminished, if it exists at all. Coloradans have the most to lose if Colorado’s electoral college votes are given to the National Popular Vote Compact. Did you know that because of the different state rules for getting on a ballot, Colorado’s electoral college votes could go to a presidential candidate who isn’t even on Colorado’s ballot? That’s not fair to Coloradans or in our best interest. The other side argues that under the national popular vote, presidential candidates will visit all 50 states. However, we have seen that candidates have ignored the rural areas of Colorado. Remember the Club 20 debates where gubernatorial and senatorial candidates refused to debate and talk to rural communities about our issues? Now, picture that on a national level. Colorado will be ignored, especially when it comes to developing national policies that are in the best interest of Colorado’s businesses. Let’s stand up for Colorado’s businesses and keep Colorado’s votes for president where they belong: in Colorado with Coloradans. Vote no on 113. Rose Femia Pugliese is a Mesa County Commissioner and among the organizers of an effort to put to a vote Colorado participation in the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact. F
Vote yes and make Colorado relevant again Coloradans deserve an open and honest discussion on Proposition 113, also known as the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact. Unfortunately, they’re not getting it as opponents continue to propagate myths and falsehoods. The latest example is the column in this paper by Rose Pugliese. Proposition 113 makes Colorado Dennis relevant again by Lennox guaranteeing the presidency to the candidate who receives the most votes. In doing so, it upholds the fundamental principle of one person, one vote. This is important because, right now, the Western Slope is totally irrelevant. The region’s important issues are ignored — in the same way as Utah and Wyoming — as presidential candidates pander to the handful of battleground states that actually decide elections. Pugliese’s arguments go beyond denying reality. They amount to disinformation. Notably, the Cortez Journal, Durango Herald and Grand Junction Daily Sentinel newspapers have all endorsed a yes vote. If passed, Proposition 113 would amplify the Western Slope’s voice. This would also revitalize the state GOP at a time when conservatives wander the political wilderness thanks to Republicans blowing election after election. (Just look at this year’s election. Pugliese’s campaign is wasting money that should be spent on re-electing President Donald Trump and U.S. Sen. Cory Gardner.) I also want to be clear: The Electoral College remains as-is under Proposition 113. As a conservative who campaigned for Tom Tancredo during the 2008 presidential primaries and caucuses, worked for U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz and supports President Trump, I would never support any proposal that altered the constitutional framework for electing the president.
Constitutionally conservative and constitutionally consistent, Proposition 113 exercises the Colorado General Assembly’s authority under Article II of the U.S. Constitution to replace the state-based, winner-take-all method of awarding electoral votes — a method James Madison, who wrote the Constitution, opposed. Notably, Colorado’s present method is not in the Constitution, was not debated at the 1787 constitutional convention and was never mentioned in the Federalist Papers. States have routinely changed the method of awarding electors since the first presidential election. Examples include Massachusetts, which has changed its method 11 times. Changing the method of awarding electors does not change or abolish the Electoral College. Opponents also falsely claim that rural areas would be disenfranchised. The numbers do not lie. Rural areas and the 100 largest cities each contain onesixth of voters, which means big cities and rural areas are equal under a popular vote. Similarly, 82 percent of voters do not live in California and New York. Unless you reject basic math, it is impossible for 82 percent to be outvoted by 18 percent. In an election under the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, the Democrat and Republican nominees would campaign in every county in every state because winning would become a numbers game. Each candidate would focus on running up the score in solid red and blue states. No longer would we elect a president of the battleground states. Rather, we would elect a president of the United States. This explains why Trump says he supports a popular vote. He knows it’s easier for him and other Republicans to win if the vast swath of red America had a reason to vote. Dennis Lennox is campaign manager of Conservatives for Yes on National Popular Vote. For more information, visit https://www.conservativesforyes onnationalpopularvote.com. F
Measure 7A provides district funding to protect Colorado River To the editor: Often referred to as the hardest working river in America, the Colorado River originates on Colorado’s Western Slope and provides water to Western Colorado families, businesses and farms and ranches. The Colorado River and its tributaries also offer endless environmental and recreational benefits enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. The Colorado River is the economic driver for Western Colorado, and it is the foundation of the high quality of life we enjoy. Though not widely known, the Colorado River District (CRD) provides an incredibly important service to Western Colorado. Put simply, the CRD works to protect the waters of the Colorado River for the benefit of Colorado’s Western Slope. For over 80 years, the CRD
Letters to the editor has delivered wide-ranging benefits to water interests in the 15 Western Slope counties it serves, including Mesa County. I encourage you to join me in voting yes on 7A this election season to protect the future of our Western Slope water. Because of Colorado’s tax laws, it has been severely difficult for the CRD to raise money to protect this increasingly precious water. This nominal mill increase will cost the average West Slope homeowner $7.03 and business $7.72 per year, which will raise nearly $5 million for the CRD.
This increase in capital will help improve agricultural efficiencies, update infrastructure, maintain healthy rivers, protect water quality and ensure a reliable and efficient water system for all users. Trout Unlimited and its local chapters across Western Colorado strongly support Measure 7A. Measure 7A will allow us to build on our past successes with the river district and provide even greater benefits to Western Colorado rivers in the future. Join me and other passionate river users in voting yes on 7A. Ellie M. Phipps, president Trout Unlimited Chapter 319 Grand Valley Anglers Grand Junction F
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Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac
n NOMINATIONS SOUGHT FOR ANNUAL AWARDS RECOGNIZING TECH SECTOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Nominations will be accepted until Oct. 31 for annual awards presented by the Colorado Technology Association. The Apex Awards program recognizes the accomplishments of companies and individuals working in the technology sector in the state. Awards are presented to companies, emerging firms and projects. In addition, individual awards are presented to advocates, emerging leaders, entrepreneurs, executives, talent champions and youth tech leaders. Past Apex Award winners include Page Tucker, president and chief executive officer of ProStar in Grand Junction. Tucker won the award in 2016 for entrepreneur excellence. Brian Watson and Josh Hudnall, co-founders of the Launch West initiative in the Grand Valley, were finalists for the project of the year award in 2016. For nomination forms or additional information about the Apex Awards, visit the website located at www.coloradotechnology.org/ apex-awards. n GET THE PICTURE: ENTRIES SOUGHT FOR COLORADO AGRICULTURE PHOTO CONTEST Entries will be accepted through Dec. 31 for an annual competition for photography depicting the Colorado agricultural industry. Entries must be submitted to the Colorado Department of Agriculture by e-mail with an official entry. Visit the website at www.colorado.gov/pacific/agmain/best-show-photography-contest for entry forms and contest rules. Photographs must be taken in the 2020 calendar year and relate to Colorado agriculture in some way. That includes crops, farmers’ markets, harvests, livestock, people and urban agriculture as well photographs taken with drones. Entries will be evaluated on theme, creativity and technical quality. The winner will receive $175, second place $150 and third place $100. Other awards and honorable mentions also will be presented. Winning photos will be displayed on the Colorado Department of Agriculture website and also used in digital and print communications. Winners will be announced in January. n APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED UNTIL OCT. 30 FOR GRAND JUNCTION LIONS CLUB GRANTS Applications will be accepted through 5 p.m. Oct. 30 for the latest grant program conducted by the Grand Junction Lions Club. Using proceeds from its carnival and raffle conducted each February, the Grand Junction Lions Club awards grants to fund a variety of community projects. Over its history, the club has contributed a total of more than $7 million to more than 400 projects and nonprofit organizations. Grant applications and requirements for consideration are available on the Grand Junction Lions website at www.gjlions.org by clicking on the Community Betterment Committee link and downloading the PDF application. Applications can also be picked up at Brown’s Shoe Fit, located at 425 Main St. in downtown Grand Junction. Completed applications must be turned in at Brown’s Shoe Fit. The Grand Junction Lions Club will announce in January which projects have been selected and begin awarding grants in March.
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OctOber 22-NOvember 11, 2020
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Grand Valley Power has joined in an effort to provide care packages to military personnel serving overseas. The Grand Junction-based electric cooperative has joined with Operation Interdependence to collect donations, letters and other items. “Grand Valley Power employees and our board of directors are so honored to support this incredible mission and organization for our nation’s C. Wharton servicemen and women,” said Christmas Wharton, communications manager for Grand Valley Power. “Members of the military have made many sacrifices to keep our country safe, and we consider it an honor and privilege to be able to give back to them.” Grand Valley Power will host a donation, care package supply and letter drive through Nov. 11. Participants can donate online at www.oidelivers.org. Care package items can be dropped off at Grand Valley Power at 845 22 Road. A list of approved items is available at the website at www.gvp.org/ Hometown-Partnerships. Letters and cards can be dropped off or mailed to Grand Valley, attention member services, 845 22 Rod, Grand Junction, CO 81505. Grand Valley Power also will accept entries through Nov. 9 for a coloring contest for Mesa County youth ages 13 years and younger. An entry form and rules are posted at www.gvp.org/ Hometown-Partnerships. Winners will receive gift certificates. Organized in 1936, Grand Valley Power serves more than 18,000 consumers in Mesa County and surrounding areas. For more information, log on to www.gvp.org.
n SUBARU TO ONCE AGAIN SHARE THE LOVE THROUGH LATEST PHILANTHROPIC EFFORTS Subaru of America has scheduled its annual Subaru Share the Love event for Nov. 19 through Jan 4. With every new Subaru purchased or leased at participating Subaru retailers nationwide, Subaru will donate $250 to one of four charities selected by customers. Those charities are the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, MakeAlan Bethke A-Wish, Meals on Wheels America and the National Park Foundation. Subaru retailers also have selected nearly 800 local charities to support during the upcoming event. Participating Subaru retailers also will donate $5 to local charities for every routine Subaru vehicle service visit. “Each year we look forward to the Subaru Share the Love Event as a special time where our retailers, customers, national and local charity partners come together to make an impact on our communities,” said Alan Bethke, senior vice president of marketing at Subaru America. “We are honored to be more than a car company for all those who interact with Subaru by supporting the causes that are closest to their hearts.” Since launching the program in 2008, Subaru has donated a total of more than $176 million to national and local charities. For more information, visit www.subaru.com/share. n MESA COUNTY DISTRICT GETS NEARLY $500,000 IN LATEST MINERAL LEASING DISBURSEMENT The Mesa County Federal Mineral Lease District has received nearly $500,000 in federal mineral leasing funds, an annual disbursement that will be distributed in grants. The latest disbursement from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs is about 45 percent less than what the district received last year. The district distributes federal mineral leasing funds to local public entities to support infrastructure, construction and public service projects that address the effects of energy development. For more information, visit the website at www.mesaFML.org. n POINSETTIA ORDERS ACCEPTED UNTIL NOV. 13 FOR FRIENDS OF ST. MARY’S BENEFIT SALE Orders will be accepted until Nov. 13 for an annual benefit poinsettia sale. The Friends of St. Mary’s Hospital will sell poinsettias for $15 each and deliver them to purchasers on Nov. 19 or 20. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the St. Mary’s Fund to help the hospital meet community health care needs. For more information, contact Sandi Hicks at (303) 356-7757 or sandra_hicks18@yahoo.com. F
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BusinessBriefs Briefs Business BusinessPeople People Almanac Business Almanac The Business Times
Young entrepreneur vies in national event A Grand Valley student who launched a business to offer protective outdoor gear for children was among the semifinalists who pitched their ventures in a national competition. James Stucky, chief executive officer of Bulldog Protective Gear, vied against nine other semifinalists, but didn’t advance to the finals of the Saunders Scholars National Competition. Stucky, a seventh-grader at Caprock Academy in Grand Junction, qualified for the competition by winning a local event in which students enrolled in the Young Entrepreneurs Academy pitched their ventures to a panel of investors. Stucky also received $2,000 in funding for his startup. Stucky said he plans to pursue his entrepreneurial dreams. “I hope to make BPG a nationwide business. And I hope that BPG will remain successful and handed down to the next generation of family.” Coordinated by the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce, the Young Entrepreneurs Academy turns middle and high school students into the chief executive officers of startup ventures. Over the course of the program, students come up with new products and services, write business plans, pitch their ideas to investors and develop their brands. By the end of the program, they oversee fully functioning enterprises they can continue to operate. For more information about Bulldog Protective Gear, visit the website at www.bulldogprotectivegear.com. F n GRAND JUNCTION BANK EXECUTIVE NAMED DISTRICT ROTARIAN OF THE YEAR Kristi Redlinger, vice president and business development officer with Bank of the San Juans in Grand Junction, was named District 5470 Rotarian of the Year. The district includes 58 Rotary Clubs in Colorado. Redlinger has belonged to the Horizon Sunrise Rotary Club since 2008. Redlinger has served as president and treasurer Kristi Redlinger of the club. She’s also chairwoman of the District 5470 Rotary Youth Exchange and has hosted 13 exchange students. She was a Rotary exchange student herself in high school and spent a year in France. In addition to her involvement in Rotary, Redlinger serves on the boards of United Way of Mesa County and the Community Food Bank. n GRAND JUNCTION MAN APPOINTED TO COMMUNITY SERVICE COMMISSION Alexander McLean Nees of Grand Junction was appointed to the Governor’s Commission on Community Service. The commission recommends a community service plan that promotes school safety, literary and mentoring for disadvantage youth while preventing youth violence.
James Stucky participates in a competition earlier this year in which students enrolled in the Young Entrepreneurs Academy in Grand Junction pitched their ventures to a panel of investors. (Photo courtesy Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce)
SHARE YOUR NEWS The Business Times welcomes submissions for free publication in Business People and the Almanac calendar of events. Email submissions to phil@thebusinesstimes.com or submit a news release online at www.thebusinesstimes.com. n GRAND JUNCTION REAL ESTATE FIRM HONORS ITS BEST-SELLING AGENTS Toni HeidenMoran and Kathy Tomkins were honored as the top-performing agents at Weichert Realtors-Heiden Home Realty in Grand Junction. The owner Toni Heiden-Moran Kathy Tomkins and broker of the firm, Heiden-Moran posted the highest sales volume and most new listings for the month. Heiden-Moran and Tompkins tied for the most closings. Weichert Realtors-Heiden Home Realty operates offices at 735 Rood Ave. For more information, including properties for sale or rent, call 245-7777 or visit the website at www.heidenhomes.com. F
OctOber 22-NOvember 11, 2020
Oct. 22 n Grand Junction Master Networks referrals group Zoom meeting, 9 a.m. Oct. 22 and 29 and Nov. 5. New members welcome — one per profession. 216-7723 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Thursday Friends networking group, noon, Munchies, 550 Kokopelli Drive. 858-3894 Oct. 26 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Business Builders networking group, noon Oct. 26 and Nov. 2 and 9, location varies. 858-3894 Oct. 27 n Free webinar on building relationships with bankers, 9 to 10 a.m. http://grandjunctionsbdc.org/recovery n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m., Timberline Bank, 649 Market St. Admission $10 in advance, $12 at the door. 242-3214 Oct. 28 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business pumpkin carving, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Moon Farm, 1360 18 1/2 Road. Admission $15. 858-3894 Oct. 29 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Thursday Friends networking group, noon, Qdoba, 401 Jurassic Ave. 858-3894 Nov. 4 n Young Professionals Network of Mesa County before hours event, 7 to 8:30 a.m., Kiln Coffee Bar, 326 Main St., Grand Junction. www.ypnmc.org n Business startup workshop, 1 to 3:30 p.m., Business Incubator Center, 2591 Legacy Way. Admission $55. 243-5242 Nov. 5 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Thursday Friends networking group, noon, Dragon Treasure, 576 Kokopelli Dive, Unit A. 858-3894 Upcoming n Fruita and Palisade chambers of commerce Communities Over Coffee free discussion with local leaders, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., Nov. 12, Timberline Bank. 858-3894 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Nov. 12, Coloramo Federal Credit Union, 333 W. Aspen Ave. Admission $5 for chamber members, $10 for others. 858-3894 n Bookkeeping boot camp, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 17, Business Incubator Center. Admission $75. 243-5242 n Free presentation on real estate careers, 5:30 p.m. Nov. 17, Weichert Realtors-Heiden Home Realty, 735 Rood Ave., Grand Junction. Call for reservations. 245-7777 n Business startup webinar, 9 to 10:30 a.m. Nov. 18 and 19. Admission $55. 243-5242 n Palisade Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Nov. 18, St. Katheryn Cellars and Talon Winery, 785 Elberta Ave. Admission $6 in advance, $8 at the event. 464-7458 F
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