THE BUSINESS T IMES News AUGUST 20-SEPTEMBER 9, 2020
VOLUME 27, ISSUE 16
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Machining her role
In this issue
Trends 2 Contributors Valley executive Opinionn Grand 2 runs one of the largest woman-owned firms Business Briefs in Colorado. See page 2 4 Business People Almanac
n Job loss forecast Colorado could lose 128,500 jobs in 2020, according to a midyear update compiled at the University of Colorado.
n Show of support
About 10,000 masks will be delivered to businesses as a show of support for safety as well as CMU students.
n Connections
A network designed to more efficiently connect people with organizations providing services is now operational.
n Top rankings
Lindsey Robinson, president and owner of Industrial Screen and Maintenance, oversees diverse operations in Grand Junction and Casper, Wyo., that include machining, fabricating and urethane coating.
5
SCL Health St. Mary’s ranks among the top hospitals in Colorado and the nation in separate magazine ratings.
n Set for recovery?
17
The latest numbers for business filings in Colorado offer encouragement the state is positioned for recovery.
n Developing effort
19
How do businesses give their employees the tools to move forward in a pandemic? They train them.
n Departments Almanac Business Briefs Business People Contributors News Opinion Trends
30 28 30 19-24 2-16 26-27 17-18
Business Times photo by Phil Castle
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Colorado Trends job losses Contributors forecast at 128,500 Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac
Lindsey Robinson, president and owner of Industrial Screen and Maintenance, oversees diverse operations in Grand Junction and Casper, Wyo., that include machining, fabricating and urethane coating. ISM ranks among the top 100 women-owned companies in Colorado, according to the latest results of an annual magazine listing.
Machining her role Grand Valley company among top woman-owned firms in Colorado
L
indsey Robinson considers herself something of an outlier as a woman who owns a machining company. But that doesn’t change a managerial approach she says focuses on diversifying and growing operations while providing a good place to work for employees. If anything, Robinson says she strives to continue building on a family business established more than 50 years ago as well as a reputation for customer service. “We like to solve problems.” Robinson is owner and president of Industrial Screen and Maintenance, overseeing operations in Grand Junction as well as Casper, Wyo. With $8 million in gross revenues in 2019, ISM ranks 35th among the top 100 woman-owned companies in Colorado in the latest list compiled for ColoradoBiz magazine. Comfort Keepers, a company offering in-home services to seniors and others who need assistance, was the only other Grand Junction firm to make the list. Owned by Ora Lee,
Comfort Keepers reported gross revenue of nearly $6 million in 2019 and moved from 48th to 45th. Robinson says she was pleased to make the list. “We’re super excited. That’s pretty cool.” Robinson says ISM participated for the first time in the ranking process to increase awareness as a woman-owned business. In addition, the company has nearly completed the process to earn certification from the U.S. Small Business Administration as a woman-owned business. That offers an advantage, she says, in providing services and products to other companies as well as competing for government contracts set aside for women-owned businesses. ISM offers a range of services and products that include machining, fabricating and urethane coating. True to its name, the company provides screens for the mining and drilling industries as well as hemp processors and breweries, Robinson says. See MACHINING page 15
STORY AND PHOTO BY PHIL CASTLE
CMU mask distribution hailed as show of support Phil Castle
The Business Times
About 10,000 cloth face masks will be delivered to Mesa County businesses in what’s described as a show of support for both safety and Colorado Mesa University students. Diane Schwenke, president and chief executive officer of the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce, said it’s important for businesses to keep employees and customers safe in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.
It’s also important, Schwenke said, for businesses to recognize the contributions of CMU and its students to the Grand Valley economy. About 10,000 of the maroon, black and gold face masks with CMU and Maverick logos will be delivered to businesses in a collaborative effort involving CMU and local business and economic development organizations. The effort is funded by CMU, Mesa County, the cities of Grand Junction and Fruita and Town of Palisade. See SUPPORT page 14
Colorado could lose 128,500 jobs in 2020 in the wake of a pandemic that’s caused an unprecedented downturn, according to a midyear economic update compiled at the University of Colorado at Boulder. Mesa County has fared better than other metropolitans areas in the state, however, with a proportionally smaller year-over-year employment decline and lower jobless rate. Moreover, Mesa County could benefit R. Wobbekind from increased interest among people and businesses to relocate to Colorado. The research division of the Leeds School of Business at CU revised downward in its midyear update what was forecast B. Lewandowski in December as the addition of 40,100 jobs in Colorado in 2020. The coronavirus pandemic and related closures and restrictions changed the outlook for nearly every industry sector, said Richard Wobbekind, senior economist and faculty director at the Leeds School of Business. “We have no context, nationally or in Colorado, in which to assess this magnitude of economic devastation,” Wobbekind said. “We can try and compare it to the Great Recession, but the numbers are orders of magnitude different. We never shut down the economy before.” Brian Lewandowski, executive director of the research division, said the news isn’t entirely bad. “While the economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic have set many records, we have also been surprised by the rebound in some areas of the economy.” See FORECAST page 16 Diane Schwenke, president and chief executive officer of the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce, models a Colorado Mesa University face mask. (Business Times photo by Phil Castle)
August 20-september 9, 2020
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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 A computerand screen through technology holdsshot illustrates a hypothetical answeringdisplay “what ifprovided ” questions. “They know the Community Resource Network. The display offers a snapshot of a client, a master’s degree in how to effect change in an organization.” including resources beenexpects contacted to request computer informationsought in the past and who’s Whidden to bring that same additionalBut services. HealthtoNetwork) systems. he also(Image courtesy Quality approach 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 aPhil minister. Whidden has workSievers for thesaid people.” Castle the additional information worked for large and small Whiddenbecause said he also The Business Timesorganizations is important suchconsiders so-calledhimself social in both the private and public sectors. a liaison between the commissioners and determinants as housing and food security Whidden expects to draw on all of his county staff, and one of the priorities is to Three years of development and testing can account for more than half of the experiences in helping Mesa County make sure employees feel valued. Whidden — as well as some national recognition factors affecting the health and wellbeing commissioners make andled carry outpoint. decisions. of said he hopes not only to improve morale, along the way — have to this a person. Valuing staff and making the county but also take services steps that make Mesa A network designed to more efficiently Providing in will a more proactive an employer of choice is among the and County an organization connect people with organizations providing coordinated way alsofor canwhich lower people health priorities, Whidden and said.social So isservices planning wantcosts to work. medical, behavioral is care and in turn lessen the burden for that results in sustainable funding and Meanwhile, Whidden expects the operational. taxpayers and businesses, she said. balanced budgets on a long-term basis. county to continue policies and initiatives “It’s exciting,” “Our technology connects the dots,” Meanwhile, Mesa County will that support local business and economic said Jackie Sievers, Sievers said. “Helping to efficiently connect continue to pursue efforts that promote a individuals development. areservices additional steps the director of to There the right makes a friendly business environment and that can be taken to make it easier for local implementation for the huge difference for all involved.” economic development, businesses sellthe products and been services to Community Resource Whidden said. Sieverstosaid CRN has under Whidden officially began working as the county, he added. Network (CRN). development for about three years. county administrator MesaCRN County willnational keep working with Dick Thompson,at the beginning of The earned recognition the year. He succeeds otheryear government entities, organizations executive directorTom Fisher, who was last when the effort placed second in a hired as county manager in Summit health and institutions on challenge fostering an and chief executive innovation byenvironment the Robert County, Utah. that supports existing businesses and officer of Quality Jackie Sievers Wood Johnson Foundation. Whidden joined Mesa County in attracts new businesses, he said. Health Network based Five organizations in Mesa County August 2011 Junction, as information technology haveWhidden said since thereJanuary, couldSievers be a in Grand tested the CRN director. In April 2014, he became deputy opportunities to encourage the additional said the network helps said. county administrator for resource development of businesses that provide connect people with Christie Higgins, community access management in a staffing reorganization services to the agricultural industry as well the right services at the director at Hilltop Community Resources, that four director positions. as promote Mesa County as aorganization distribution righteliminated time. said the Grand Junction-based Before joining center for the the CRN region.to coordinate care for “CRN helps Mesa County, has used Whidden worked forof a company providing clients The important thing iscenter. to consider service providers at its family resource information technology services to issues from a well-rounded perspective, all types understand “We can quickly make and send colleges and universities. In that role, he electronic Whidden said. “We won’t myopic we an individual’s needs referrals to findbethe help asthey Dick services Thompsonfor look at things.” managed IT systems and from a whole person need fast and with less paperwork,” institutions Alabama, Illinois ✦ we have more time perspective, inleverage theArizona, work and the Higgins said. “We find The Business Times
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relationships that are already in place, reduce duplication of services and data entry and prioritize actions that make a real difference for those we all serve,” Thompson said. Quality Health Network developed the CRN to build on an exchange that shares electronic health records among hospitals, medical practices and public health departments in the region. The CRN provides on a secure exchange information about clients, including family and housing, resources sought in the past and who’s been contacted to request services, Sievers said. “You see a whole picture of an individual,” The CRN also offers information about available resources and the appropriate organizations to contact for assistance.
to spend working directly with clients when we can see all their info in one place. We love the visual way the CRN shows us where to focus our efforts first.” Sievers said she expects the CRN to soon expand to other agencies in Mesa County as well as the Roaring Fork Valley. Agencies in Delta County also are exploring the use of the network. Dozens of organizations across Western Colorado could be using the network by the end of the year. Eventually, the CRN could expand across Colorado. “We are working to get medical, behavioral and social agencies plugged into the network,” she said. “The more organizations utilizing CRN, the better the outcomes will be.” F
August 20-september 9, 2020
The Business Times
St. Mary’s ranks among top hospitals nationwide in magazine evaluations
SCL Health St. Mary’s in Grand Junction ranks among the top hospitals in the state and nation in separate magazine ratings. St. Mary’s was rated as a high performing hospital in five areas of adult procedures and conditions and ranked as the eighth best hospital in Colorado in the 2020-2021 Best Hospitals analysis in U.S. News & World Report. In a list created for Newsweek magazine, St. Mary’s ranked among the top hospitals in the nation for its maternity program. Bryan Johnson, president of St. Mary’s, said the U.S. News & World Report rankings affirm the level of care the hospital offers. “Patients don’t need to travel. They can literally get Bryan Johnson world-class care right here in Western Colorado,” Johnson said. “These awards reflect the dedication and hard work of our associates and their commitment to excellence. We couldn’t be more proud of their accomplishments.” Dr. Andrew Jones, chief medical officer at St. Mary’s, also said the awards affirm the care the hospital provides ranks among the best nationally. “Ultimately, they reflect the hard work and discipline of our care and the compassion we have for our patients.” Cathy Roberts, director of women and children’s services at St. Mary’s, said the Newsweek rating validates the work of Andrew Jones physicians, nurses and associates who make the hospital a good place to have a baby. “Pregnancy is a very special time in a woman’s life. This national recognition gives women and their families the confidence that their choice to deliver at St. Mary’s will be the best choice to bring their new family member into the world.” U.S. News & World Report evaluated more than 4,500 medical centers nationwide for 10 procedures and conditions. High performing ratings were awarded for care deemed better than the national average as measured by such factors as patient outcomes. Cathy Roberts St. Mary’s earned high performing ratings in cardiac services for abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, heart failure and heart bypass. St. Mary’s operates the only certified chest pain and stroke center between Denver and Salt Lake City. St Mary’s also earned high performing ratings in orthopedics for hip and knee replacements. State rankings recognize hospitals that received high performing ratings across multiple levels of care. Newsweek joined with the Leapfrog Group, a health care industry watchdog organization, to rank maternity programs. The ranking was based on standards for excellence and patient safety, including low rates of cesarean section and early elective deliveries as well as protocols to protect mothers and babies. Leapfrog Group awarded St. Mary’s an A for its efforts to ensure patient safety in its spring 2020 hospital grades report. St. Mary’s has received an A in each of the last six twice-yearly assessments. F
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Grand Junction fares well in purchasing power report Grand Junction ranks among the least In Colorado, Grand COLORADO COMPARISON Junction ranked behind only expensive metropolitan areas in which to live in Colorado, according to the latest Pueblo, where $100 bought Here’s a comparison of how much $110.99 worth of goods comparison of purchasing power. $100 could purchase in goods and The Tax Foundation reported that and services. Greeley was services in Colorado metro areas: $100 could purchase $107.18 worth of third at $102.46, followed Pueblo $110.99 goods and services in Grand Junction by Colorado Springs at Grand Junction $107.18 compared to other metropolitan areas and $100.81 and Fort Collins at Greeley $102.46 regions with different price levels. $98.04. The Denver, Aurora Colorado Springs $100.81 The nonprofit, nonpartisan tax research and Lakewood metro area Fort Collins $98.04 organization in Washington, D.C., based the came in at $95.33. Boulder Denver/Aurora/Lakewood $95.33 report on the latest U.S. Bureau of Economic was the most expensive area Boulder $93.37 at $93.37. The average for Analysis data on the differences in price nonmetro areas was $106.16. levels across metropolitan areas and states for 2018. The levels take into account consumption goods Nationwide, $100 bought the least in large cities in and services. Levels vary the most with housing rents. California and the Northeast, the Tax Foundation reported.
In contrast, $100 stretched the furthest in rural areas in the Southeast and Midwest. Among the 15 most expensive metro areas in 2018, nine were located in California. The San Francisco, Oakland and Hayward area ranked as the most expensive of all, where $100 bought $75.99 worth of goods. The purchasing power of $100 was slightly higher in Los Angeles at $85.40. The New York, Newark and Jersey City area ranked fifth in 2018 with $100 purchasing $80.58. In the Boston, Cambridge and Newton area, $100 purchased $87.57 in goods. Among the 15 least expensive metro areas in 2018, three each were located in Alabama and Georgia and two each in Arkansas, Tennessee and Texas. Beckley, W.Va., was the least expensive metro area. There, $100 could purchase $130.55 worth of goods and services. F
Program assists area businesses facing effects of the pandemic The Small Business Development Center in Grand Junction has launched a program to help small businesses in Mesa and Rio Blanco counties affected by the coronavirus pandemic. The recovery initiative will include free one-on-one consulting and online workshops. “Most small businesses across the nation have been impacted by COVID-19, and Mesa and Rio Blanco County businesses are no exception. This program targets the established business community and offers Julie Morey training and resources to increase the chances for business stabilization and recovery,” said Julie Morey, director of the Small Business Development Center in Grand Junction. “Amid disaster and dealing with the unexpected, opportunities for innovation often arise, and this program was developed with that in mind,” Morey added. Certified Colorado SBDC business consultants are available to meet with small business owners at no cost. A free online workshop series will cover various topics with which small businesses could need assistance. Workshops will be conducted several times each month and address such topics as: n Bookkeeping basics and financial statements. n Workplace safety in a pandemic. n Legal concerns. n Working remotely and re-evaluating the workplace. n Mental health. n Business recovery versus opportunity. For more information about consulting, workshops and other services offered by the Small Business Development Center in Grand Junction, visit the website located at www.grandjunctionsbdc.org/recovery. F
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Real estate firm to lead home improvement program A real estate company based in Grand Junction will lead a pilot program offering home improvement resources to sellers. Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties is one of two Coldwell Banker affiliates selected to lead the RealVitalize program as it expands to affiliate offices nationwide. The program offers sellers home Todd Conklin improvement resources prior to or during a home listing period with no up-front costs or interest charges. Coldwell Banker agents connect sellers with project consultants who help find pre-screened service professionals from the HomeAdvisor network to complete improvements.
HomeAdvisor operates a digital marketplace connecting homeowners with professionals that provide a range of home improvement services. “My agents help their clients fulfill their goal of selling for top dollar as quickly as possible. RealVitalize helps make that process easier, freeing up agents to spend more time on productive and meaningful tasks that better serve their clients,” said Todd Conklin, owner and chief executive officer of Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties. Coldwell Banker Real Estate launched the RealVitalize program at company owned offices in 2019. The program is now available in 29 markets nationwide. The program will be available to Coldwell Banker affiliate offices for enrollment in 2021. According to Coldwell Banker Real Estate, sellers who
participated in the program during a testing period between Aug. 26, 2019 and April 1, 2020, sold their homes 25 percent faster that other homes on the market and 4 percent closer to listing prices. Meanwhile, overall agent satisfaction with the program was 95 percent. “We are more than half way toward our goal of making RealVitalize available to our entire network of more than 94,000 affiliated agents within the next year who handle a total U.S. sales volume of $2401 billion, a true advantage that most brokerages can’t match,” said M. Ryan Gorman, president and CEO of Coldwell Banker Real Estate. “Now, even more consumers will have access to this unique program that can help sell their home faster and for more money.” F
Grand Junction firm makes latest listing of fastest-growing private companies
Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties based in Grand Junction once again ranks among the fastest-growing private companies in the United States, according to the latest version of an annual list compiled for a national magazine. Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties is included in the Inc. magazine 5000 for 2020. The real estate company has made the list five times. “We’re thrilled to once again be named on the Inc. 5000 list. Our inclusion in this list is a reflection of our commitment to constant growth and innovation as a company, as agents and as individuals,” said Todd Conklin, owner and CEO. “We are incredibly proud to be among the fastest-growing companies in the country.” Inc. compiles lists of the 500 and 5,000 fastest-gowing companies based on revenue growth over the past three years. Companies apply for inclusion and report their revenues. Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties ranked 3,229th on the 2020 list with nearly 118 percent revenue growth over the past three years. The company also ranked among the top residential real estate brokerage firms included in the latest the Real Trends 500 report. Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties ranked among the largest brokerages by sales volume and transactions, top mover in sales volume and transactions and top five-year mover in sales volume and transactions. Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties also was named a Chairman’s Circle company, a designation awarded to Coldwell Banker franchise companies that attained gross commission income of $10 million or more in 2019. Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties operates offices in Colorado, Idaho and Montana, including an office located at 131 N. Sixth St. in downtown Grand Junction. For more information, call (877) 978-2978 or visit the website located at www.cbdistinctive.com. F
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Mesa County joins in efforts to attract remote workers Mesa County is among the first applicants for grants to market a program that encourages companies to hire remote workers in rural areas of Colorado. The Location Neutral Employment (LONE) grants provide communities up to $5,000 to market themselves to prospective employers and employees. The Grand Junction Economic Partnership took the lead on marketing remote workers for Mesa County and experienced success in recruiting a company that provides software to manage customer service to relocate part of its operations from California to Grand Junction. NFOCU5 expects to move a dozen employees from Pasadena and has hired 30 people previously employed at StarTek, a Grand Junction call center that closed earlier this year. Over the next three years, INFOCU5 expects to hire up to 300 employees.
The company is the first in the Grand Valley to take advantage of LONE incentives. The program provides approved companies with a state job growth incentive tax credit as well as cash incentives for each remote worker employed in an eligible rural county. About half the employees in Grand Junction will meet the parameters for the incentives. “From a very macro perspective, location neutral employment is the largest growing sector of employees, so it made sense for us to try and take advantage of that,” said Cilia Kohn, director of marketing and communications at GJEP. “INFOCU5’s arrival opens up a lot of opportunities for us to recruit more companies from California, and we admire their dedication to the Western Slope.” The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade and Colorado Department of Local
Affairs have set aside $300,000 over the next three years to fund rural marketing activities. Counties and regional economic development organizations are eligible to apply. Marketing funds may be used to create materials to attract companies that have been awarded a LONE incentive to their rural communities. Makala Barton, economic development and public relations coordinator for Rio Blanco County, said she plans to use a grant to create promotional flyers and enhance the county’s economic development website with remote worker information. “Rio Blanco County owns its own 1G fiber optic broadband network with faster speeds than most urban areas at a lower cost. This positions us as an unexpected gem for location neutral workers looking for an off-the-beaten-path Colorado lifestyle.” F
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August 20-september 9, 2020
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Firm joins with CMU to run hotel
Charlestowne Hotels has partnered with Colorado Mesa University to operate Hotel Maverick, a boutique hotel on the Grand Junction campus that also serves as a teaching facility for the hospitality management program. “When it came time to choose a management company for Hotel Maverick, we sought a partner that was customized and dynamic enough to adapt to our unique hospitality model,” said CMU President Tim Foster. “Charlestowne Hotels offers both unmatched experience with boutique hotels in university markets and the type of personalized and hands-on approach to hospitality that will help Hotel Maverick and CMU hospitality graduates thrive.” Hotel Maverick provides students with opportunities to participate in paid internships, connect with hospitality leaders through panels and speaking engagements and obtain interviews for hospitality industry jobs after graduation. Any recent graduate from the CMU hospitality program is guaranteed an interview with Charlestowne Hotels. Hotel Maverick features 60 guest rooms and suites, a combined 3,793 square feet of meeting and event spaces, a heated outdoor soaking spa and fitness center. Dining facilities include Devil’s Kitchen, which offers farm-to-table fare and panoramic views of the Grand Mesa and Colorado National Monument, and Betty’s Gourmet Coffee, which offers artisanal coffee and grab and go treats. “Our leadership team is keen to continue expanding the geographic footprint of Charlestowne’s hotel management collection and jumped at the chance to work with Hotel Maverick because of its incredible location in the Grand Valley and the remarkable hospitality teaching experience provided to students,” said Kyle Hughey, chief operating officer of Charlestowne Hotels. “Hotel Maverick fits within our growing portfolio of university hotels and provides us with the opportunity to become more involved with on-site F&B operations while simultaneously supporting and mentoring the industry’s new guard.” Hotel Maverick is the 10th property managed by Charlestowne in a university market — collegiate hotels the company manages are located on or near the campuses of Clemson University, Colgate University, Longwood University, Sewanee-the University of the South and the University of Arkansas. In response to COVID-19, Charlestowne Hotels worked closely with the on-site hotel team and CMU to develop safety protocols for guests and staff, including sanitizing the reception desk after each guest interaction, permitting one party at a time to use the elevator, adding individual hand sanitizer amenities to every guest room and reducing indoor restaurant seating by 50 percent. F
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Mind Springs offers help to deal with wildfire stress
A mental health services provider in Western Colorado offers a free support line to help people distressed by wildfires burning in the region. Mind Springs Health operates the line at (877) 519-7505 around the clock. Michelle Hoy, executive vice president of Mind Springs Health, said fires are burning near communities the organization serves, including the Pine Gulch Fire near Grand Junction and Grizzly Creek Fire near Glenwood Springs. “Wildfires are not only physically devastating to public and private lands, but they can also increase anxiety and feelings of sadness and vulnerability. These are normal feelings to have during and after a natural disaster, and it can be incredibly helpful to talk about these emotions with a professional,” Hoy said. Mind Springs Health initially launched its mental health support line in response to the coronavirus pandemic. But the wildfires and start of the school year could add to the concerns people experience, said Dr. William Elsass, chief medical officer. “Many people in our communities are simply reaching the point they don’t feel they can navigate their stress and anxiety on their own, and we want to be sure that everyone who needs help, has quick, easy access to support.” F
Support
Continued from page 2 Fruita Mayor Joel Kincaid said the mask distribution offers another example of the collaboration that occurs in the Grand Valley. “It takes a partnership to do something like this.” Schwenke said the deliveries will help businesses comply with pandemic restrictions requiring face coverings in public indoor spaces as well as keep employees and customers safe. The masks also offer an opportunity for businesses to show their support for CMU and CMU students,. The university and its students constitute substantial economic drivers, she said. The latest results of an economic impact study estimated the direct and indirect effects of the university total nearly $469 million. Student expenditures constitute the largest single category of direct spending. Out of $142.3 million in estimated annual spending for room, board, transportation and other expenses, $128.1 million remained in the regional economy. Angel Bautista, a senior at CMU, said students appreciate the efforts of businesses to make them feel welcome and tend to patronize those businesses. F
August 20-september 9, 2020
Machining
Continued from page 2 Robinson bought ISM in 2018 when her father, Daniel Miner, retired. Miner took over the operation in 2000 when his father, Robert “Pete” Miner retired. Robert Miner started ISM in Casper in 1969 by manufacturing screens for the uranium industry, a product the company still produces. Robinson and her husband, Aaron, became involved in 2005 when ISM opened a location in Grand Junction. Aaron oversees company operations. Lindsey Robinson says they joined the family business in part to relocate from New Mexico. Robinson says she initially handled sales and marketing, drawing on her experience as an account executive for a telecommunications company. In addition to a 63,000-square-foot facility in Grand Junction, ISM operates three facilities in Casper. The company employs 18 in Grand Junction and 13 in Casper. ISM has faced challenges over the years, Robinson says, in coping with the business cycles of the energy industry to which the company provides products and services. When energy exploration and production activities slow, so do sales. “Your business model changes overnight.” To keep skilled and experienced employees on the payrolls during downturns requires creativity, she says. Her grandfather used to fix refrigerators and garage door openers to stay in business. Robinson says she strives to diversify operations by providing different products and services for different markets. ISM has increased the products and services it provides with urethane — a versatile material that can be used in a range of applications, Robinson says. The company makes custom molded products and also offers urethane linings. The linings provide protection against chemicals and abrasion that enables components to last far longer. What hasn’t changed over 50 years, she says, is the capability and willingness of the company to help customers solve problems — whether that’s fabricating a replacement to a part that’s no longer available or designing something new. ISM also continues to offer a good place for employees to work, Robinson says, with good benefits and livable wages. Employees provide quality products and services because they care about what they’re doing. They care because the company in turn cares about them, she says. While more women work in the machining industry, Robinson says she still considers her role unique. Balancing her role at work and her role at home as the mother of three daughters presents challenges as well. But Robinson says she enjoys running the family company, changing operations to meet changing circumstances and juggling what can be a hectic schedule. “I love it. I thrive on challenge.” F
The Business Times
pAge 15
SBA: Colorado business paid $2.6 billion for federal contracts
More than 2,900 small businesses in Colorado were paid a total of more than $2.6 billion for contacts as the federal government exceeded its small business contracting goal for the seventh consecutive year. “Colorado businesses continue to find opportunities to grow by providing key services and support to the largest purchaser in the U.S., the federal government,” said Frances Padilla, director of the U.S. Small Business Administration Colorado District Office. “With our state having a presence of hundreds of federal agencies, our small firms have a key advantage to sell goods and services directly to Uncle Sam or to work with prime contractors on federal contracts. We continue to be encouraged by the growing trend line of successful awards to Colorado small businesses doing great work on behalf of the country.” According to the SBA, 26.5 percent of federal contracts
went to small businesses during the 2019 fiscal year. The federal government awarded $132.9 billion in prime contracts to small businesses and $90.7 billion in subcontracts. The government also exceeded goals for contracts awarded to businesses owned by women and service-disabled veterans. The federal government earned an A on the latest small business procurement scorecard. “The federal prime and subcontracts awarded to small businesses in FY19 equate to more than 1 million jobs created,” said SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza. “Every contract that gets in the hands of a small business is a win-win for our nation, entrepreneurs and their employees, and the communities they support. This is especially important now, as our economy recovers from the pandemic-related setbacks.” F
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Forecast
The Business Times
FORECAST JOB LOSSES BY SECTOR
Here’s a look at 2020 job losses by industry sector in Colorado as projected by an economic update prepared at the University of Colorado: Leisure and hospitality 76,700 Trade, transportation and utilities 13,000 Education and health services 10,100 Government 9,100 Construction 5,100 Other services 4,700 Natural resources and mining 4,400 Financial activities 2,900 Manufacturing 1,100 Professional and business services 1,000 Information 400
Continued from page 2 According to the update, labor conditions in Colorado had stagnated at the beginning of the year. But the onset of the coronavirus pandemic and related closures and restrictions led to a total loss of 342,000 jobs in March and April. The statewide seasonally adjusted unemployment rate rose nearly 10 points from 2.5 percent in February to 12.2 percent in April. Nonfarm payrolls rebounded with a combined gain of 126,000 jobs in May and June. But total employment remained 7.7 percent below January and 6.6 percent below June 2019. The effects of the pandemic and
august 20-sePtember 9, 2020
downturn have varied across Colorado. As of June, Grand Junction had experienced the lowest year-over-year employment decline among metro areas at 2.2 percent. According to estimates compiled by the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, payrolls declined 2,008. Boulder had the second lowest decline at 4.1 percent, followed by Pueblo at 4.4 percent and Colorado Springs at 4.7 percent. The Denver, Aurora and Lakewood area posted the largest decline at 6.7 percent. The seasonally unadjusted jobless rate stood at 10 percent in Mesa County in June. Fort Collins posted the lowest rate at 9.2 percent, followed by Boulder at 9.5 percent and Greeley at 10.1 percent. The Denver, Aurora and Lakewood area posted the highest rate at 11 percent. While many sectors of the Colorado economy have improved since March and April, they’re expected to finish the year with job losses. The leisure and hospitality sector is projected to account for nearly 60 percent of job losses in Colorado in 2020 with a decline of 76,700. Colorado counties with ski resorts and higher concentrations of leisure and hospitality workers were especially hard hit when the pandemic forced ski resorts to close. National parks also were closed for a time. As of June, passenger traffic at Denver International Airport was down nearly 73 percent from a year ago. The trade, transportation and utilities sector — which includes retail outlets as well as airlines — is expected to lose 13,000 jobs in 2020. Retail employment rebounded in May and June following pandemic-related closures and restrictions. But payrolls still remained 4.8 percent lower than a year ago. Education and health services is projected to lose 10,100 jobs in 2020, although the sector could experience a V-shaped recovery as elective health care services rebound. Government payrolls are expected to decline 9,100 as municipalities and other local government entities face budget cuts stemming from decreased tax revenues. The natural resources and mining sector is expected to lose 4,400 jobs as lower oil and natural gas prices slow exploration and production activity. As of June, the Baker Hughes count for Colorado fell to four rigs in Weld County and one rig in Garfield County. Employment is projected to decline 5,100 in construction, 4,700 in other services, 2,900 in financial activities, 1,100 in manufacturing and 1,000 in business and professional services. While growth in the Colorado population is expected to slow, there’s been increased interest among people and businesses in relocating to areas that have been less affected by the pandemic. Wobbekind said that bodes well for Mesa County and other rural areas of Colorado. F
News Trends Contributors Positioned for recovery? Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac
August 20-september 9, 2020
The Business Times
pAge 17
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.
Colorado business filings offer encouragement, but outlook uncertain
t Consumer Confidence Index 92.6 in July, down 5.7 s Leeds Business Confidence Index for Colorado, 44.3 for the third quarter, up 14.6. t National Federation of Independent Business Small Business Optimism Index 98.8 for July, down 1.8.
The latest numbers for business filings in Colorado offer encouragement the state is positioned to recover from the coronavirus pandemic. It remains uncertain, however, how long recovery could take. “We still have a long, long way to go,” said Richard Wobbekind, a senior economist and faculty director of the Leeds School of Business at the University of Colorado at Boulder. According to a report compiled by the Leeds Business Research Division based on statistics from the Colorado Secretary of State’s office, initial filings of new companies, corporations, nonprofit organizations and R. Wobbekind other entities dropped during the second quarter compared to the same span last year. But renewals by existing businesses and other entities increased. Jena Griswold, Colorado secretary of state, said the numbers bode well for the state economy. “We’re faring better overall than the national economy.” A total of 31,221 new entity filings were recorded during the second quarter of this year. That’s a decrease of nearly 7.8 percent Jana Griswold from the first quarter and 1.7 percent from the second quarter of last year. While new entity filings typically decline during the second quarter, Wobbekind and Griswold also attributed the latest drop to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic and related closures and restrictions. A total of 152,420 renewals for existing entities were recorded for the second quarter of this year. That’s an 11.5 percent decrease from the first quarter, but a 12.2 percent increase over the second quarter of last year. Filings for trademarks and trade names also increased on a year-over-year basis. “This is very encouraging,” Wobbekind said.
n Confidence
n Foreclosures t Foreclosure filings in Mesa County, 4 in July, down from 32 in July 2019.
t Foreclosure sales in Mesa County, 2 in July, down from 9 in July 2019.
n Indexes
s Conference Board Employment Trends Index, 50.89 for July, up 1.43. s Conference Board Leading Economic Index 102 for June, up 2% s Institute for Supply Management Purchasing Managers Index for the manufacturing sector, 54.2% for July, up 1.6%.
n Lodging
t Lodging tax collections in Grand Junction, $70,296 for June, down 63.3% from June 2019.
n Real estate
s Real estate transactions in Mesa County, 604 in July, up 8.6% from July 2019. s Dollar volume of real estate transactions in Mesa County, $194 million in July, up 3.7% from July 2019.
n Sales
t Sales and use tax collections in Grand Junction, $4.4 million for June, down 9.3% from May 2019. s Sales and use tax collections in Mesa County, $3.7 million for July, up 8.2% from July 2019.
n Unemployment
s Colorado — 10.5% for June, up 0.3. s Mesa County — 10.0% for June, up 0.9. t United States — 10.2% for July, down 0.9.
Phil Castle
The Business Times
Still, dissolution filings also increased during the second quarter — up to 5.2 percent to 8,659. The overall number of companies, corporations, nonprofits and other entities in operation continues to increase. For the second quarter, there were 757,612 entities in good standing. That’s an increase of 4.2 percent over the same quarter last year. Other economic indicators also reflect the effects of the pandemic and the outlook for recovery, Wobbekind and Griswold said. For June, the latest month for which estimates are available, the statewide seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased three-tenths of a point to 10.5 percent. Since May, Colorado payrolls have regained 126,000 of the 343,300 jobs lost between February and April. Compared to a year ago, though, payrolls have decreased 183,000 with the biggest losses in the leisure and hospitality; trade, transportation and utilities; and education and health services sectors. Griswold said Paycheck Protection Program loans helped businesses keep more people employed. Both Griswold and Wobbekind called for additional federal stimulus to help businesses and individuals. Wobbekind said some sectors were more affected the pandemic than others. But every sector has been affected. “Nothing has gone unscathed.” The Leeds Business Confidence Index, a measure of optimism among business leaders cross Colorado, rebounded to 44.3 for the third quarter. That’s up 14.6 points from a record low 29.7 for the second quarter. However, readings below 50 reflect more negative than positive responses. Griswold said the prospect for recovery depends on a number of factors, not the least of which is management of the coronavirus. But the Colorado economy is diverse and Coloradans resilient, she said. Wobbekind said one silver lining for Mesa County and other areas of the state could be increased interest among businesses in relocating to less urban settings. “This could be very promising for some rural areas of Colorado.” F
Small Business Optimism Index retreats A measure of optimism among small business owners has declined on less upbeat expectations for the economy and sales in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. The National Federation of Independent Business reported its Small Business Optimism Index fell 1.8 points to 98.8 in July, just below the historic average for the nearly 50-year-old index. “This summer has been challenging for Bill Dunkelberg many small business owners who are working hard to keep their doors open and remain in business,” said Bill Dunkelberg, chief economist of the NFIB. “Small business represents nearly half of the (gross domestic product), and this month we saw a dip in optimism. There is still plenty of work to be done to get business back to pre-crisis numbers.” Tony Gagliardi, state director of the NFIB in Colorado, said policies issued in the aftermath of the pandemic have served to pick Tony Gagliardi winners and losers. “Until small and independent businesses are allowed some flexibility in how they operate, long-term economic damage is a certainty.” 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. For July, five of 10 components of the index retreated, four advanced and one remained unchanged. A net 25 percent of those responding to the survey upon which the July index was based expect the economy to improve over the next six months, down 14 points from June. The drop accounted for nearly three-fourths of the decrease in the overall index. A net 5 percent of respondents said they expect higher sales, down eight points. A net 26 percent reported plans for capital outlays, up four points. But the 11 percent who said they consider now a good time to expand was two points lower than a month ago. A net 18 percent said they plan to increase staffing, up two points. A net 30 percent reported hard-to-fill job openings, down two points. At the same time, 21 percent cited finding qualified labor as their single most important problem. A net 4 percent reported plans to increase inventories, down three points. A net 1 percent reported current inventories as too low, unchanged from June. A larger proportion of those who responded to the latest NFIB survey reported higher earnings — up three points. But at a net negative 32 percent, the reading was only slightly higher than the low reported more than a decade ago. Most blamed weak sales. F
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The Business Times
Labor report: Jobs up, jobless rate down Employment increased and the unemployment rate dropped in the United States in July as labor conditions continued to improve in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, although at a slower pace. Nonfarm payrolls grew 1.8 million and the jobless rate fell nine-tenths of a point to 10.2 percent in July, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported. The initial estimate for payroll gains for June was revised down 9,000 to nearly 4.8 million. The estimate for May was revised upward 26,000 to more than 2.7 million. Despite payroll gains over the past three months, nonfarm employment remains 12.9 million below February and the onset of the pandemic in the U.S. For July, the number of people counted among those unsuccessfully looking for work decreased 1.4 million to 16.3 million. Those on temporary layoffs decreased 1.3 million to 9.2 million. Another 8.4 million people were counted among those working
part-time because their hours were cut or they were unable to find full-time positions. The labor force participation rate slipped a tenth of a point to 61.4 percent. At 592,000, nearly a third of the payroll gains in July occurred in the leisure and hospitality sector. Employment rose 502,000 in food services and drinking places. Employment increased 285,000 in retail trades, 170,000 in professional and business services, 126,000 in health care and 26,000 in manufacturing. Government payrolls grew 301,000. The average workweek for employees on private, nonfarm payrolls decreased a tenth of an hour to 34.5 hours. The manufacturing workweek increased seven-tenths of an hour to 39.7 hours. Average hourly wages for employees on private, nonfarm payrolls rose 7 cents to $29.39. F
august 20-sePtember 9, 2020
Labor index rises
A measure of labor conditions in the United States has increased, but still portends slowing hiring and double-digit unemployment rates. The Conference Board reported its Employment Trends Index rose 1.43 points to 50.89 in July. The index remains 53.8 percent lower than a year ago, however. “Over the next several months, job growth will significantly put on the brakes,� said Gad Levanon, head of the Conference Board Labor Markets Institute. F
Trends Contributors Opinion Developing effort Business Briefs Business People Almanac
August 20-september 9, 2020
The Business Times
pAge 19
COMING ATTRACTIONS
n The Business Incubator Center in Grand Junction has scheduled presentations on startups and bookkeeping. The next sessions of a business startup workshop are set for 1 to 3:30 p.m. Aug. 26 and 6 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 8 at the center, located at 2591 Legacy Way. A two-part webinar on how to start a business is set for 1 to 3:30 p.m. Sept. 15 and 16 and again Oct. 20 and 21. The workshops and webinars 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. Sept. 10 at the center. Participants will learn how to set up and track accounting records and what balance sheets, cash flow projections and income statements tell them about their 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 Small Business Development Center in Grand Junction has scheduled a series of free workshops to help businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic. A workshop set for 9 to 11 a.m. Aug. 24 will offer information about maximizing finances during troubled times. A workshop set for noon to 1 p.m. Sept. 8 will help participants keep workplaces safe during the pandemic. For more information about consulting, workshops and other services offered by the Small Business Development Center in Grand Junction, visit www.grandjunctionsbdc.org. n The Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce has scheduled a free webinar on the effects of the family medical leave law. The webinar is scheduled for 10 to 11 a.m. Aug. 20. Registration will be open through 8 a.m. the day of the webinar on the chamber website at www.gjchamber.org. For additional information about upcoming chamber events, call 242-3214 or visit the website at www.gjchamber.org.
How do we move forward in challenging times? With training Waking up on Jan. 2, I doubt any of us dreamed we’d face the environment we face today, the challenges facing businesses in particular and society as a whole. We’ve faced serious health risks before. And any time people interact, conflicts can arise. Recent events have made it clear, though, of the necessity to realign and readdress these problems. We must give our work forces the tools and resources to not only function in a pandemic, but also treat people with respect and dignity. We must set an example by checking our own biases to truly understand Kelly where others come from. We must Murphy realize those who disagree with us aren’t inherently wrong or evil. Their perceptions are based on different histories, experiences and backgrounds. How do we give employees the tools to move forward? We train them, cultivate an inclusive environment, listen and model behaviors. We think of investing in employees in terms of purchasing the right desks, software or equipment to increase their success. Do we ever stop to think of other resources employees might need? Perhaps we need to provide some active listening training. Or maybe teaching skills to prevent perceived harassment would de-escalate emotionally charged situations. We must be willing to invest in developing the so-called soft skills of employees. In doing so, we demonstrate to employees they’re not just human capital, but also valuable contributors to the success of our operations. The benefits of investing in professional development for employees include increased morale, confidence and productivity along with decreased risk of harassment. Each industry has its own training requirements — construction and occupational safety, for example. But other core development programs also should be offered, including those covering conflict management and resolution, diversity and team building and harassment prevention. Many workplaces look differently now than they did in January. Even before the onset of the pandemic, we faced challenges in gathering team members for training. Now we face even more difficult challenges. But we’ve also learned
In doing so, we demonstrate to employees they’re not just human capital, but also valuable contributors to the success of our operations.
to use resources more efficiently. The same holds true for developing work forces. We have to get creative. Some of the ways in which organizations have succeeded in this endeavor include: n Video conferencing. This allows for staff training in different locations, but also questions and interaction among participants. n Web-based training. This isn’t as personal as faceto-face training, but still requires interaction depending on the system. Employees can access this at their convenience as long as they’re paid for the time it takes to complete the training. n Standard operating procedure manuals. This is a great time to have long-term employees write down their wisdom to pass on to new hires and transfer this knowledge. n Job description reviews. This is also a great time to ensure job descriptions reflect the actual tasks performed and have conversations with your employees about their duties. Business owners and managers must strike a balance between available resources and training their work forces. But owners and managers who invest in employees signal to them they trust them to continue to grow and develop. Consider this quote: “What if we invest in our people and they leave? What if we don’t and they stay?” Kelly Murphy works as a human resources business partner with Lighthouse HR Support in Grand Junction. She brings to her duties nearly 30 years of experience as well as designations as a Professional in Human Resources and Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional. She also serves on the Western Colorado Human Resource Association board of directors. For more information, visit www.wchra.org. F
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The Business Times
august 20-sePtember 9, 2020
Don’t let yourself be held hostage by team members Every company has team members who hold positions critical to daily operations. While these individuals might fill important roles, they also could contribute to a negative work environment. They might not fully support the company philosophy, objectives and goals. In fact, they could hinder the progress of the organization with their bad attitudes, gossip and dishonesty. It’s typically believed if these team members were to leave or be let go, the business could suffer or not function effectively. In effect, they hold the company “hostage.” This need not be the case. It’s not uncommon for business owners and managers to feel they’re held hostage by one or more team members who play key roles in their operations. They believe Marcus these individuals possess sensitive Straub information and perform vital functions and letting them go or taking any action that might upset them will leave the company in a vulnerable or even desperate position. The feeling of being held hostage by anyone or anything is an uncomfortable one, to say the least. When faced with this reality, business owners and managers commonly believe they’re powerless to change their circumstances. They’re at the mercy of the team members and the situation. This is only a belief, however. Beliefs of this type must be changed to free operations from toxic team members and enable business owners and managers to experience more happiness and success. Do you feel held hostage by one or more of your team members? This is often a challenging question to
Sometimes, team members change once they’re made aware what they’re doing isn’t beneficial or acceptable. This isn’t always the case, though.
ask yourself. It’s an even more challenging question to answer truthfully. No one wants to admit to feeling they’re at the mercy of others. The question is vital, though, to the success of your business. If you feel held hostage by one or more team members, an effective option is to bring in a professional to work with you and the team members who need professional development or to be let go. Hiring a coach or consultant who’s objective and well-equipped to help you deal with these sensitive situations constitutes a wise investment. People are commonly held hostage by their own limiting beliefs. A qualified professional can help you, your managers and team members develop empowering beliefs and effective strategies that better position the company for increased success and continued growth. Sometimes, team members change once they’re made aware what they’re doing isn’t beneficial or acceptable. This isn’t always the case, though. It’s important to understand there will be instances in which team members remain unwilling or unable to change for the better, even with high caliber coaching and training. At some point, it must be determined whether or not a team member constitutes a good fit for the company. In my 16 years as a business coach and consultant, it’s always a positive choice to set those team members free who have no interest in learning; growing; and aligning
with company values, missions and directions. They don’t really want to be there anyway. In these situations, the individuals aren’t happy with their jobs and would likely leave on their own if they didn’t feel held hostage themselves by their circumstances. These team members are often limited by their own beliefs about their career options outside their current positions, their ability to find other jobs they’d like and their personal financial needs. The businesses I’ve worked with have, without exception, improved their situations by letting go of team members unwilling to learn, change their destructive behaviors and grow with the company. In addition, the team members who were let go typically found greater happiness and success elsewhere. When business owners, managers and team members believe they’re held hostage, fear is the main force with which to deal. As effective actions are taken to manage and even eliminate fear, a win-win situation is created for businesses and team members. Whether team members adjust and stay or don’t change and are removed, a strong decision is made and everyone is free to pursue the success and happiness they desire. 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
August 20-september 9, 2020
The Business Times
pAge 21
To perform their best, employees must feel their best Most personal trainers will tell you when they encourage their clients to lift more weight or move a little faster, most often those clients can and do. Although holding back is common, good trainers inspire people to give more and, in doing so, discover their potential. Good trainers also recognize when clients can’t do more without risking injury. Perhaps they haven’t had enough sleep, they’re sick or experiencing chronic stress or pain. In those cases, it’s important trainers provide resources and referrals to help clients deal with underlying issues rather than press for more output. Understanding and accommodating these different situations is essential in a Rebecca business setting, too. When employees Weitzel are well, leaders can tap into their potential by clearly defining their unique roles in the organization, ensuring they feel valued, giving them the tools to do their jobs well, fostering positive relationships and helping them grow. These strategies create a culture in which people willingly give their best efforts. If every employee showed up to work each day healthy and well, we’d have the complete recipe for success. Because of episodic or chronic illnesses, though, people often show up, but don’t function at full capacity. They can’t give more even if they want to. In fact, showing up, but not performing has become so detrimental to the economy researchers have a name for it: presenteeism. Studies show presenteeism costs businesses up to three times more than absenteeism. Because people are physically present, presenteeism often goes undetected. Such conditions as addictions, allergies, arthritis, asthma, back pain, gastrointestinal disorders and migraines aren’t always
If you believe most employees want to do their best, inspire them to dig deep when they’re well. But also support them with education and resources when they’re not. obvious. Because of their prevalence and frequent lack of treatment, they account for much of the lost productivity. One study showed depression in the United States costs employers $35 billion per year in reduced performance. Another study showed pain from such conditions as arthritis, back strain and headaches costs businesses $46 billion annually. Think about the last time you experienced a headache, back pain, upset stomach or bout of depression. You might have gone to work, but probably moved more slowly, avoided high-demand tasks, expressed irritation and perhaps made mistakes. Now, using Centers for Disease Control estimates that half of the adults in the United States suffer from at least one chronic condition, imagine the effects to your organization if half your employees underperform because of health issues. You can quickly glean the damage these conditions inflict on productivity and your bottom line. Understanding these effects is the first step to addressing them. The next step is identifying specific health issues your employees face. One strategy is to assess the demographics of your employees and make an educated guess about which conditions are likely prevalent. For example, if you employ a high percentage of women, your work force might struggle with higher rates of irritable bowel syndrome since women suffer from hat condition twice as often as men. Another strategy is to contract with a wellness vendor
to conduct a health risk appraisal in which individuals voluntarily answer questions or submit to biometric screenings to produce an aggregate report on the prevailing health risks in your organization. Education logically follows as a means to help employees prevent or better manage illness. Hold seminars about common health issues, provide access to screening tools and encourage employees to designate a primary care physician. While these interventions might seem costly, the direct costs of proper health care represent less than 30 percent of the total cost of an illness to an organization. Far higher costs leak from your organization as lost productivity when illness goes unmanaged. Finally, it’s essential to remove the barriers employees face to managing their health. Provide paid time off and cultivate a culture that encourages people to take time off to help them recover more quickly and reduce the risk of spreading illness or perpetuating low-performance norms and burnout. Provide such benefits as free flu vaccines, employee assistance programs and wellness programs. These efforts produce savings that far outweigh initial investments. If you believe most employees want to do their best, inspire them to dig deep when they’re well. But also support them with education and resources when they’re not. This training approach likely could become your single best competitive advantage. Rebecca Weitzel is president and co-founder of Good Life Wellness Solutions, which provides affordable and easy to implement workplace well-being solutions, an online platform, consulting and education services tailored to small businesses. Contact Weitzel at (970) 216-6390 or rebecca@goodlifewellnesssolutions.com or visit the website at www.GoodLifeWellnessSolutions.com. F
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How to stay motivated working at home Whether you’re working from home by choice or COVID-derived necessity or thinking of making the move to a home-based office, there are a few things I’ve discovered over the course of my 30-year work-from-home career you might find useful. When your commute involves a short hop from the bedroom to the coffee pot to the office, it can be tempting to put off the normal events of the workday. As you pass the washer you hear it calling your name. Or the workbench tempts you with hammers and nails. Or maybe there’s a new recipe you want to try or a bedroom pleading for a fresh coat of paint. Don’t give in. Tell these temptations you’ll check back with them after 5 p.m. Instead, remind yourself this is a real job, Janet not a hobby. Treat all aspects of working from Arrowood home as if you were in a downtown office with regular meetings, appointments and so forth. Get up, get cleaned up, get dressed in a manner suitable for web-based video calls and then get your coffee. By doing the same things to the extent possible you would do at your former office, you set the stage for working effectively and staying motivated. Shut out distractions. If that means closing the door, wearing earplugs or forbidding your significant other from disturbing you until noon, so be it. Isn’t that what you did at the old office? Avoiding distractions is another excellent motivator for getting work done since you don’t have these non-work activities interfering with your day. Structure your day. I use a spiral notebook and old-fashioned day planner, but an electronic calendar and computerized notes work just as well. Whatever method you use, finish each week by noting all the tasks, meetings, video or regular calls and other things you need or want to get done or set up the next week. Post these items to your notebook and day planner or other tracking system. As you finish an item, cross it off your list. If you don’t finish — or start — it, decide whether to carry it over to the next week or drop it.
This approach gives you an important record of what you said and did, helps with expense and time tracking, helps focus your efforts and can motivate you going forward. You have a record of your accomplishments and shortfalls — a great way to stay motivated. Block out a small window of time in the morning and again in the afternoon to answer emails, check news websites and deal with unplanned distractors. Don’t get caught up surfing the Internet for hours unless one of your to-do list items is Internet research. Even if that’s the case, stay focused. Reward yourself when you reach a particular milestone, finish something really important or gain a new client. You could treat yourself to a much-needed haircut in the middle of a workday, go to the park with your kids or knock off a bit early for a hike or bike ride. Make a list of rewards and reward criteria and post them near your desk. Celebrate your successes. If you have a mentor or advisory board, invite them to a socially distanced picnic in your back yard or a park. If you don’t have a mentor or board — you really should — call a friend to boast about your success, achievement or accomplishment. It’s hard to give or receive positive feedback when you’re working in isolation. You have to actively seek it. Feedback is an important part of getting and staying motivated. Finally, don’t get discouraged if you wake up and don’t even want to look at your office or talk on the phone. It happens. If you keep a to-do/accomplished list, you can go back and remind yourself of the benefits and results you reap when you put your mind to the tasks at hand. Positive reinforcement that’s self-generated. It doesn’t get any better than that. 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
August 20-september 9, 2020
The Business Times
pAge 23
Distance socially, not medically: Health care a priority Since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, many Americans have taken precautions to stay safe and healthy — wearing face masks and maintaining a safe social distance. There’s been a concerning trend, though, in medical distancing as people cancel, miss or shortchange their health care. Monument Health launched Your Health is Essential to encourage Coloradans who’ve delayed medical care needs because of the pandemic to talk to their doctors again to get the care they need when they need it. While Coloradans should continue social distancing, it’s imperative they prioritize their health care. According to the results of a recent survey, three in four Americans reported Stephanie a disruption in health care use in Motter canceling or postponing appointments. Another poll conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation revealed that almost half of Americans have skipped or postponed medical care because of the pandemic and 11 percent of those respondents said their conditions worsened because their care was deferred. Looking at data from employers who partner with Monument Health and offer our whole health product, there’s evidence that almost 40 percent of children are overdue for a pediatric wellness visit since the onset of the pandemic and nearly 35 percent of women are overdue for breast cancer screenings. Colorado Canyons Hospital and Medical Center — a division of Family Health West and Monument Health partner hospital — has yet to see the same number of patients after the onset of the pandemic than before in its emergency room as well as respiratory therapy and adult
Monument Health launched Your Health is Essential to encourage Coloradans who’ve delayed medical care needs because of the pandemic to talk to their doctors again to get the care they need when they need it.
outpatient therapy departments and outpatient clinics. Dr. Korrey Klein, president and chief executive officer of Family Health West, said, “Our volume of primary care services is still down with 11 percent fewer visits having occurred in the more recent months when compared to our pre-COVID volume.” Michelle Hoy, executive vice president of Mind Springs Health, said there’s been a 50 percent reduction in outpatient mental health therapy services started with the Western Colorado mental health services provider. “Anecdotally, we hear — and much of the data confirms — most Americans are feeling anxious, stressed, overwhelmed and unwell emotionally, and yet we have fewer people starting treatment than usual,” she said. Delayed care can result in patient harm. When preventive visits, behavioral health appointments and well child checkups fall to the wayside, chronic conditions go undetected, mental health concerns are left unaddressed and scheduled vaccinations are often deferred. Vaccinations are an essential part of routine care for school-age children. Monument Health and Western Colorado Pediatric Associations, a division of Primary Care Partners, encourage parents to schedule well child
checkups, including vaccinations, as an essential part of back-to-school preparations. Monument Health also reminds Coloradans to remember influenza vaccinations. With flu season on the horizon, flu vaccinations should be at the top of the priority list in terms of routine care that should not be put off. Hospitals and physicians have taken every precaution to ensure their waiting rooms and offices remain safe. They’ve implemented enhanced cleaning and safety protocols, including appointment pre-screenings, mask requirements, socially distanced waiting rooms and staggered appointments. Telemedicine offers an effective tool for people who are at-risk, elderly or simply desire an alternative to in-person care. Our provider partners have taken every precaution to ensure their offices and waiting rooms are safe so that our members — and their patients — can safely receive the health care they need when they need it For those who don’t have a primary care provider, Monument Health guarantees access to providers for its members. Monument Health wellness warriors take the time to get to know each member and connect them with providers who meet their unique needs and preferences. Call 683-5630 to get connected. Stephanie Motter is chief executive officer of Monument Health, a clinically integrated health care network in Mesa County. She previously worked as vice president of quality and strategy at DaVita Healthcare Partners as well as a nurse practitioner in the Denver and Boston areas. She holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Smith College and master’s degree in nursing from Yale University. For more information about Monument Health, visit www.MonumentHealth.net. F
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The Business Times
august 20-sePtember 9, 2020
Living healthy lifestyles more important than ever The importance of living a healthy lifestyle isn’t new news — we all know the importance of self-care. But during these challenging times, living a healthy lifestyle has become more difficult for many people. As daily routines changed, so did many of our healthy routines. Since the outset of the coronavirus pandemic, our daily routines aren’t really routine. We’ve changed our work habits, our shopping habits and even our workout habits. The longer the pandemic continues, the harder it becomes to stay centered in the lives to which we were accustomed. Self-care is more important than ever. It takes discipline and action to make sure we take good care of Paula ourselves. That includes exercise, Reece sleep and nutrition as well as reducing stress and finding ways to maintain our social lives. n Exercise and movement are essential to self-care. Whether it’s a walk around the block, hiking or getting back to the gym, our bodies are meant to move. Getting the heart pumping, toning and strengthening our muscles and stretching for increased flexibility keep our bodies
healthy. That improves our ability to fight off weight gain, illnesses and disease. n Summertime is a great time to eat healthy. Fresh fruits and vegetables are available in abundance and packed full of vitamins and antioxidants to boost immunity. While routines and diets have changed, it’s never too late to get back on the healthy food train. Remember that processed foods have a direct link to our gut health. Eating fresh, immunity boosting foods improve health inside and out. n We’re tired. Yet, sleep still eludes many of us. The important role of sleep in our overall wellbeing is often underestimated. Lack of sleep affects metabolism, memory and the immune system. Establishing a sleep routine offers an effective way to improve the quantity and quality of sleep. Keeping bedtime hours the same every night; avoiding alcohol, heavy meals, sugar and tobacco before bed; limiting screen time; and making getting ready for bed a routine all foster a blissful night’s sleep. n We can’t talk about restful sleep without addressing a major challenge to health — stress and fear. A little stress can be motivating. Too much stress can be debilitating. Because of our new normal that’s not at all normal, we’re afraid of the unknown, our jobs and financial situations, our children and school and getting sick. We might not be able to fix this, but we can find ways to deal with stress.
Meditation that focuses on breathing, relaxing and renewal can be helpful and therapeutic. Keeping stress and fear compartmentalized prevent us from feeling overwhelmed. Limit time on social media, news and engaging in conversations that aren’t productive, stimulating and healthy. n One of the most important items that’s been largely overlooked has been the effects of the pandemic on the social aspects of our lives. We’re human and therefore social. When we could no longer gather at gyms, restaurants and events, it took a toll. Self-care is about helping, engaging and socializing with those we care about and who care about us. As circumstances look a bit more normal, we realize how important it is to our health to be together through all this — preferably masked and socially distanced, but still together. We need each other to fill all the healthy parts of our lives. 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
Zones offer ample opportunities for real estate investors Certain properties in what are called opportunity zones provide real estate investors with additional tax benefits. Opportunity zones were created under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Opportunity zones spur economic development and job creation in distressed communities by providing tax incentives for investing in businesses operating in those zones. There are more than 8,700 opportunity zones in the United States and nearly 130 in Colorado. In a recent report sent to the White House Tim about opportunity zones, revitalization Whitney projects have delivered economic and social benefits to 52 million Americans living in economically distressed communities, including 35 million people in opportunity zones. According to the Internal Revenue Service, an
Opportunity zones spur economic development and job creation by providing tax incentives for investing in businesses operating in those zones.
investor can defer tax on any prior eligible gain to the extent a corresponding amount is timely invested in a qualified opportunity fund (QOF). The deferral lasts until the earlier of the date on which the investment in the QOF is sold or exchanged or Dec. 31, 2026. If the QOF investment is held for at least five years, there’s a 10 percent exclusion of the deferred gain. If the investment is held at least seven years, the exclusion increases to 15 percent. In addition, the amount of eligible gain is decreased to the extent the amount deferred exceeds the fair market value of the investment in the QOF.
If the investor holds the investment in the QOF for at least 10 years, the investor is eligible for an adjustment in the basis of the QOF investment to its fair market value on the date the QOF investment is sold or exchanged. As a result of this basis adjustment, the appreciation in the QOF investment is never taxed. A similar rule applies to exclude the QOF investor’s share of gain and loss from sales of QOF assets. As is the case with many government programs, they can be complicated and tend to change from time to time. Check with your accountant and other professionals to see if investing in an opportunity zone could be right for you. 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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August 20-september 9, 2020
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pAge 25
Contributors Opinion BoldVariance predictions for 2015 The Protection Program? A new year affords I’d Business Briefs What’s the problem? givelike it zero stars ... more not-so-bold repeats a new opportunity Business People Almanac to meet local needs THE he BUSINESS usiness T T Times IMES
PAGE age 26 22
Small business owners and managers face a lot of challenges — nearly as many, probably, as there are operations. But some challenges are more prevalent than others and some downright ubiquitous. Every four years, the National Federation of Independent Business compiles a report on what are deemed the most pressing challenges of all. The small business advocacy group bases the report on the results of a survey that asks small business owners to rate 75almost issues on a scale in which 1 constitutes problem A new year always brings an opportunity fora acritical fresh start and and seven isn’t a problem at all. The issues are ranked from top to bottom by their renewed ambition to do things better. average scores. that usually boils down to providing customers better products In business, The latestfaster survey conducted before the onset ofPart theof coronavirus and services andwas at lower cost than competitors. the process must pandemic in the United States and the economic that need followed — include listening to customers to determine whatdownturn they actually and then while one of the longest expansions in U.S. history was still under way, in fact.if meeting that need. After all, it does little good to offer the latest and greatest Regardless of whether times are bad or good, though, a lot of what small business nobody actually wants what you’re selling. owners the biggest problems remain the same. Justidentify like theas businesses that belong to the group, the Grand Junction Area The cost of health insurance emerged as the No. 1 problem forof Chamber of Commerce invariablyonce startsagain out the new year with a reassessment small businesses in the latest survey results, a position issuewith has held since the services and resources it provides and how well theythe match members 1986. More than half of small business owners responding to the latest survey needs. Jeff Franklin, the new chairman of the chamber board of directors, rated the cost ofapproach health insurance as a critical problem. personifies this in describing what he considers his role for the coming in second, up from place in It’s a year:Locating listen to qualified members,employees determine came their needs and then meet10th those needs. 2016. Thewhich ranking reflected what was pandemic historically low role with Franklin is familiar asbefore marketthe president of Bank of Colorado. unemployment small business owners rated as a The processrates. will Nearly take on aa third moreofstructured approach in what thehiring chamber critical problem. plans as the resumption of a program aptly called Listening to Business. Under the Tax-related issues remain a concern, but one interviews a smaller proportion ownersto program, business owners participate in in-depth to identify of barriers considered growth and critical. other problems they encounter. On other large Thethe new yearhand, offerscompetition a good timewith to join thebusinesses proverbialmoved club. from 31st to 21st in theAslatest survey results. It’s awhat trenddothat in theTimes? aftermath of an advertiser or reader, youlikely need will fromcontinue the Business the pandemic after some small businesses were closed because of the While business journals traditionally gather and report the relevantpandemic news to even as larger operationsisn’t remained opened. readers, communication necessarily a one-way street. That’s especially true as F convenient than ever. Web sites and e-mail make the dialogue more Good publications don’t exist in a vacuum. They respond to the needs of advertisers and readers. They provide what’s needed. So what do you need? Many compile lists tothat highlight of those deemed to be Is therepublications additional news coverage would the helpefforts keep you informed about performing something the best. Lists offer at a glance a compelling comparison of local business developments? Are there features that would be interesting or who’s who based on a certain set of metrics revenue, example. useful? Is there advice that would make your— jobs a little for easier? Theequally latest lists also demonstrate Valley businesses rank among It’s important to ask whatGrand you don’t need. With limited time tothe best in the state and nation at what they do. Because of the coincidental produce content and limited space in which to publish it, would time andtiming, space be severaldevoted of the stories in this issue better to something else? of the Business Times report on local companies that made lists. To isn’t? pull everything together, though, What’sthose good? What What’s needed? What isn’t?here’s yet another list of who’s to: Comment online on the Business Times Web Letonusthem. know.Congratulations Send us an e-mail. n www.thebusinesstimes.com. Industrial Screen and Maintenance andeven Comfort among the top to site at You could writeKeepers, an old-fashioned letter 100editor women-owned companies in Colorado a list in compiled the if you’d like. Your feedback, both in positive and negative,foris ColoradoBiz valued and magazine. will be carefully considered. n SCLpublications St. Mary’s, are among the top-performing separate ratings Good the result of not only thehospitals efforts ofintheir staffs, but also conducted forefforts U.S. News & World Report and and readers. Newsweek. collaborative involving advertisers n Dalby, Wendland Co., among the top 300 largest accounting Like any other good & business, we want to listen to our public customers, find outfirms in thethey United States in a list compiled for the Inside Public Accounting newsletter. what need and then meet those needs. n Banker Distinctive among the 5,000 fastest-growing It’sColdwell a new year. Please help us toProperties, do so. private companies in the U.S. in the latest ✦ list compiled for Inc. magazine. F
Making the lists, checking them twice
THE BUSINESS TIMES
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Publisher/Owner: Craig R. Hall
Editor: Phil Castle
Reach advertising at: publisher@thebusinesstimes.com Reach the editor at: phil@thebusinesstimes.com.
Subscribe or submit press releases online at www.thebusinesstimes.com The Grand Valley Business Times, a subsidiary of Hall Media Group LLC, is published twice monthly and distributed throughout Grand Junction, Fruita and Palisade. Advertising rates and deadlines are available upon request. Opinions expressed in this publication are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, editor, staff or advertisers. Copyright © 2015 — AllCopyright rights reserved. © 2020 — All rights reserved.
You mean you haven’t heard about the Variance Protection It’s that time of yearProgram when (VPP)? Neither and had Iprognostications abound. resolutions until the last edition My favorite saying applied to New Year’s of the Business Times. resolutions is in saying they’re basically a According to an bunch of promises to break the first week advertising of January.campaign, And while I won’t predict a the collaborators whole lot, I can of pretty much accurately the — Mesa nailprogram a few things that without question County Public will make the Health news. You will see these are (MCPH), the predictable: Grand pretty, well, Junction Area Chamber ■ Prediction one: of Commerce the There will be and some local, sort offive-day-a-week weather event, Craig Hall daily newspaper natural disaster — or say it’s designed to highlight establishments heinous occurrence working to ensurewill safety, especially for those where someone who could be worried due to underlying be interviewed and say health conditions or other risk factors. the following: “I’ve a column published in the Business neverInseen anything Times, director of MCPH like thatthe in executive my highlighted importance, lifetime.” It’sthe as program’s if this stating citizens want “…Craig to know Hall the person is a required places implementing attendee at every newsthese safety practices as intended and taking reporting event. While Iprecautions understandtomost protect community.” people’sthe perspective can indeed be limited could argue those by, orWho contained within,with their ownideals? personal Forgive my experiences, it iscynicism, too muchbut to aren’t ask toboth of the above objectives actually the adherence consult some historical perspective before role of MCPH every day, during saying such a thing? Yes,especially this response can aapply “pandemic?” Isn’t thatBut thewhen role ofit any to some events. comes business onand a daily basis? Wouldn’t a pretty to weather natural disasters, I’m chamber have repeating those kindsitself. sure this membership is simply history of basic Is there Same asrequirements? it has for millions anda second millions of pandemic I missed of businesses making years. More important, the planet made it! customers sick andcertain killing species. off clientele? What didn’t were How’s I’veperspective? witnessed business after business that for bending over backwards to accommodate ■ Prediction two: When it comes to a and adhere to the myriad, ever between changing, crime or something that occurs onerous health departments humans, dictates the otherofrequired attendee at all at the reporting local, state and federal levels.who I’ve news events is the person also many business give up says seen this: “They we’re justowners the nicest and say,and “enough is enough.” three people, in no way did I seeYet, something leading entitiesNo see fit does to like this community coming.” Exactly. one advertise, anditmarket most of thepromote time when comes only to the select few and whoacquaintances. meet an extraPeople level ofshould neighbors standards as at worthy of having clients? be surprised what goes on from time to all,neighborhoods, the op-ed in thetowns local daily time After in their and stated: “Customers havebecause to observe the retail with people they know people are landscape or that rely they on word-ofgood. Andthemselves for the times shouldn’t mouth warnings about TO AVOID. be shocked — like withplaces politicians, repeat There’s noand source of easily offenders terrorists — accessible where’s the information about goingsurprise the extra interview that says,businesses “This doesn’t mile slow the spread of COVID-19.” me intothe least.” So the wasthree: to dismiss 4,000-plus ■ answer Prediction Something good businesses Mesa Countyand as “must will happenineconomically, the avoid” and create only businesses as “must government willcertain take credit for it. The most go to” example based on is thegas mask-demanding recent prices, where people opinions of the creators of the thepresident VPP? for ask me why I won’t credit Leaving outMy theanswer irony none of the above low gas prices. is simple: entities have made list as the last Government neverthe makes theofprice of ad, let’s look atgo VPP a little op-ed something down anddeeper. simplyThe takes credit in local dailyGas paper was written on July forthe good news. pricing is subject to 15. That’s a day beforeNow Colorado Gov. Jared many global factors. there are Polis came out with his mandate. I of government answers to mask addressing some won’t argue unconstitutional aspects of them to keepthe prices stable for Americans, mask mandates, but Ihas findnone the timing curious. but our government of them in meonly put things it into itperspective. place.Let The has in placeIfinthe the
august 20-s ePtember 9, 2015 2020 JANUARY 15-28,
local daily paper believes everyone should wear a mask, it has right toAnother publish long run always hurtevery consumers. op-ed op-ed stating itsreaches position. If fact is after that unemployment a certain the chamber members should levelarea based on thethinks economy. And while the enforce maskmight mandates, it can makeisitlow, a government brag the number requirement membership. And if MCPH it’s more thanoflikely the government did wants a mask mandate, had every right something to cause that it number being lowat any timenot toin puta good one into — and way.effect. Conversely, when Nowpicks why up, did it’s I write that?the Simple. business because people To forbuy five-star status the not VPP whoqualify need to widgets whoinwere pre-Polis, a business HAD mandatewas buying widgets because thetoeconomy mask wearing though(orit unnatural, wasn’t yet contracting dueeven to natural the law. Thencaused) again, reasons, maybe one, two or government decided weall three thesome program creators what betterof buy widgets. The knew government was in the pipeline for our had nothing to do with this.governor’s July 16 presser? Without theInmask mandate, ■ Prediction four: keeping with the Variance Program much things theProtection government does, I had predict theless reason for a business to apply. everyto government will manipulate theNow, numbers business though it’s simply a make thedoes. claimEven the economy is getting list of because standardsofMCPH hasittoisuphold forto better how hard working all businesses in doing its daily job. Now help all of us “working Americans.” Another of VPPsay from you might say,curious “Craig,aspect you always thisthe local paperObama op-ed isbecause how a restaurant aboutdaily President you don’t — masks Polis likewhich him.”mandated You’re right in a before sense. Ithe don’t edict doing know— thewas man, but “80 whatpercent I knowofofnormal him and revenue despite operating percent his thinking, I don’t like itator50 him one iota. capacity.” to the executive Before youAccording go off, however, I didn’t like director the MCPH, “hasn’t hurt PresidentofBush and histhis bailouts, stimulus them business-wise.” Well, 20 and his abandoning the freebesides marketthat to save percent. Other than night or him special the free market. Anda Ibusy don’t know event, restaurants run at and full the either. how Whatmany the government does, capacity? They all run only thingExactly. it can do, is hurt the on economy. 50 percent or less. But they were all running Unless it does nothing or put criminals in at percent of revenuewith before COVID. jail100 instead of partnering them, nothing I wonder: Did make any look the government doesMCPH will help. Always attempt seewhatever how wellthea government restaurant says at it this to way, would perform without all theofmandates? it is doing, whatever the name the law it Iisguarantee 100 the percent. since passing, orabove whatever nameBut or goal of this is about masks, we’ll nevertoknow. the bureaucracy it is presenting the I’mexpect not saying a business doesn’t have people, the polar opposite to occur. the right to mandate customers and staff wear I guess what I’m saying is that masks. business also refuse perhapsAit’s time to gethas outtheofright our to own service or fireThere’s anyone plenty refusingoftohistory wear one. perspective. Local should protectout those rights. booksgovernment and historical research there to The irony, no place ofthat business knewhas of begin to understand all ofI this mandated announcement happenedmasks before.until AndPolis’ it will again, — save the restaurant above. whether themost-favored topic is people or government. Why?The Because businesses know mandating best recommendation is to find a mask cause to goGoogle where they some will books or customers try that whole aren’t recommended. thing.mandated There’s aor lotonly of information on the Gov. Polis. GreatQueue Depression. The truth is it wasn’t being a “freegot evenAa final goodpoint one about until VPP the government market solution” taking “government involved. There’sand also plenty of research out of the equation.” Oneperiod has to call MCPH on the medieval warm when the to ask for anmuch inspection. Thethan inspectors planet was warmer today are with employees MCPH. MCPH makes the a whole lotofless people (andalso warmer well guidelines regardless government before man was hereofatwhich all). And yep, entity This other is nothing if not a peoplewrote havethem beenfirst. killing surprised crony-based, program. people sincegovernment history wasmarketing first written. And yousome can see who it benefits thestop Maybe research will help most. three entities who should be be all of The these trends. Otherwise, we’ll fighting for Mesa County businesses saying we’ve never seen anything liketoit in open as they theirway. clients. our lives. Andsee notbest in afor good Craig Craig Hall Hall is is owner owner and and publisher publisher of of the the Business Times. Reach Reach him him at at 424-5133 424-5133 Business Times. or or publisher@thebusinesstimes. publisher@thebusinesstimes.com. F ✦
August 20-september 9, 2020
The Business Times
pAge 27
Do overs a good option The very health of health care when necessity mothers depends on innovative efforts reinvention in business Of all the notions I’ve carried with me since childhood — make your bed, eat your vegetables and always, always wear clean underwear — one of my favorites remains the concept of the do over. You’re playing a game with friends and screw up. Hey, no problem. Do over. There’s nothing wrong or the least shameful at failing. If it first you don’t succeed, try again. Children possess wisdom Phil Castle beyond their years, don’t they? Certainly beyond that of some adults who agonize over situations far too seriously and for whom common sense is all too uncommon. Fortunately, the concept of the do over endures into adulthood, only with different names. Persistence. Resilience. And my topic for the day: reinvention. It’s a timely topic given the effects of the coronavirus pandemic and related restrictions on businesses and business owners and managers. In good times, successful owners and managers look for ways to further improve products and services and increase sales. There’s no resting on laurels. In bad times, owners and managers look for ways to survive, to keep doors open and staff employed. There’s no alternative. As editor of a business journal, it’s been my privilege over the past 20 years to report on all sorts of inventions and reinventions. But the last six months have been especially remarkable in the ways so many businesses have made lemonade out of arguably the worst crop of lemons to come off the tree since the Great Depression. Restaurants initially prohibited from offering dining switched to carryout and delivery. Retailers followed suit with their own variations on that theme. Other businesses recognized opportunities in providing products for uses far different than what they were originally intended. Still other businesses accustomed to having all hands on deck enabled employees to work from the safety of their homes. Necessity, the proverb goes, is the mother of invention. I’d add reinvention. The big question that arises is what reinvention will occur as a result of the necessities of the pandemic. Some businesses will not only have to tweak their models, but also rethink them. Will office buildings full of offices full of people still exist? Will business meetings and business travel go the way of the dodo? Some of the trends that have accelerated during the pandemic likely will continue, among them online commerce. Other aspects of a contact-free economy probably will grow as well, including
My point for now for business owners and managers — everyone, really — is that reinvention is not only possible, but also could be in some cases preferable.
automation and telemedicine. Businesses that struggled to maintain operations and supply chains will explore additional ways to become more resilient. Changes similarly will occur on countless individual levels for those who’ve lost businesses and jobs. They’ll have to reinvent themselves and their careers. What will they become? I have no professional experiences from which to draw because I’m an outlier. By one estimate, people on average change careers three to seven times over the course of their lives. I consider myself blessed to have worked in print journalism since I graduated from Colorado State University on that May day back in 1981. My career aspirations have certainly changed, though. As a kid growing up the midst of the space race in the 1960s, I wanted to become an astronaut. Who didn’t? Subsequently inspired by Issac Newton and Marie Curie, I wanted to become a scientist and make important discoveries. Then something unexpected occurred. I took a part-time job in high school covering sports for my hometown newspaper. I discovered instead how much I enjoyed reporting and writing. I initially studied computer science in college, but switched to journalism and never looked back. Still, I remain undecided as to what I ultimately want to be when I grow up. I’m considering either dive master or mystery novelist. Maybe both. I’ll let you know. My point for now for business owners and managers — everyone, really — is that reinvention is not only possible, but also could be in some cases preferable. Think Ray Croc, who went from selling milkshake machines to developing the McDonald’s fast food franchise. Think Vera Wang, the figure skater who became an iconic fashion designer. For heaven’s sakes think J.K. Rowling, the researcher and teacher who became the first billionaire author. As a fan of Billy Crystal and Jack Palance, I love the movie “City Slickers.” But there’s an applicable moral of that funny story: Life really is a do over. Phil Castle is editor of the Business Times. Reach him at phil@thebusinesstimes.com or 424-5133. F
Innovation is the act of bringing new and improved goods, services, technologies and methods — that is, new ideas — to the marketplace. Innovation is vital to economic growth and improved quality of life. That’s certainly the case for health care, from pharmaceuticals to medical devices to the variety of ways for delivering services. Unfortunately, the health care debate in this country often takes innovation for granted. No matter how health care is funded or what regulations are imposed, it’s assumed, wrongly, innovation will just happen. Such assumptions are not only ridiculous, but also can turn out to be deadly. A new report from the Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity directly challenges mistaken thinking regarding innovation in health care. The index ranks health care systems in 31 nations based on quality, choice, science and technology and fiscal sustainability. The foundation makes an important point: “These goals Raymond — sustainable costs, best-in-class therapies, personalized care Keating — can best be achieved through innovation: innovation in the development of cures and vaccines, innovation in the delivery of health care service and innovation that leads to the economic growth that can fund health care expenditures. While universal health insurance is important, it is just as important to measure the role that innovation plays in improving health outcomes for all people.” The index ranks countries not only by such traditional measures as affordability and health outcomes, but also the degree to which patients choose doctors and insurers, health care-related patents, access to new treatments and health digitization. The index also measures fiscal sustainability — the ability of a nation to sustain public health care spending without punitive taxes or a debt crisis. So, where does the U.S. rank on the index and on each of the four major subcategories — quality, choice, science and technology and fiscal responsibility? Overall, the U.S. health care system ranked fourth. In terms of quality, the U.S. came in 14th. That part of the index is based on measures of preventable disease, patient-centered care and infrastructure. On choice, the U.S. ranked first based on affordability of health insurance, freedom to choose services and access to new therapies. As for science and technology, the U.S. not only ranked best, but also did so by a wide margin. That score is based on medical advances, scientific discoveries and health digitization. In terms of fiscal responsibility, however, the U.S. came in next to last. The fiscal responsibility measure is based on national solvency, debt-to-GDP ratio, public health care spending and growth in health care spending. The focus, scope and reasoning behind the index makes it a superior ranking of health care systems compared to most of what I’ve seen over the years. The main point is innovation matters to the delivery of health care today and to the improvement of treatments and services in the years to come. Innovation is not driven by government funding and political controls. To the contrary, a system in which government sets prices and allocates resources smothers innovation. Innovation springs from freedom — specifically, a free enterprise system in which entrepreneurs and investors experiment, investigate, invest, take on risks and innovate in service of the consumer. That’s why a patient-centered system that features choice, competition, voluntary cooperation and incentives for entrepreneurs and investors to pursue new and improved treatments makes the most sense. Imagine the dearth in innovation if creative individuals had to seek permission from the government to pursue new ideas and innovation. The results, as economics and history teach, are grim and in health care turn out to be deadly. A governmentcentered or controlled system would be drenched in rent seeking, special interest influences and protections. Our system has too much of that right now. Thankfully, the U.S. still offers one of the best health care systems on the planet. That’s because innovation is encouraged through strong private property rights, a lack of price controls, a private system of health care services delivery and a central role played by consumers and private insurance. Is there room for improvement? Always. Does it make sense, though, to go down the path of weak intellectual property rights, price controls and single-payer government control? Never. If we want to get serious about the goals of sustainable costs, best-in-class therapies and personalized care, the policy debate must focus on enhancing consumer sovereignty and incentivizing the entrepreneurship and private investment that drive innovation. Raymond Keating is chief economist for the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council. The nonpartisan, nonprofit advocacy, education and research organization works to protect small business and promote entrepreneurship. For additional information, log on to the website at www.sbecouncil.org. F
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Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac
n GRAND JUNCTION COMPANIES FARE WELL IN INVESTMENT PITCH COMPETITION
A Grand Junction-based bicycle rack manufacturer received a $100,000 investment in an inaugural event in which seven rural Colorado companies pitched for funding. A second Grand Junction company was awarded in-kind finance and accounting services. The two companies were among seven finalists in the Greater Colorado Pitch Series Finals held as part of Techstars Startup Week West Slope. More than 100 companies applied to participate. The Greater Colorado Venture Fund invested $100,000 in QuikRStuff, which manufacturers modular aluminum bicycle racks. Bryan Wachs and J.T. Westcott launched the company this year to provide recreational products. They started by licensing the bike rack designs and patents of Cal Phillips, an outdoor inventor and creator of the Quik Rack bike carrier. Product Movement Technologies, a third party Amazon reseller, was awarded finance and accounting services from Ascent CFO Solutions. The Greater Colorado Venture Fund invested in several of the finalists, nearly doubling its initial promise to provide at least $250,000. The Colorado Outdoors Pearl Fund, an opportunity zone fund by Colorado Outdoors, also provided funding as well as in-kind awards. n GRAND VALLEY TRANSIT RECEIVES GRANT UNDER FEDERAL PANDEMIC RELIEF EFFORTS Grand Valley Transit has received a $5.4 million grant to support bus and paratransit services. The grant was part of $25 billion in grant funding awarded by the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Transit Administration as part of federal coronavirus relief legislation. “This historic $25 billion in grant funding will ensure our nation’s public transportation systems can continue to provide services to the millions of Americans who continue to depend on them,” said Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao. K. Jane Williams, acting administrator of the FTA, agreed. “We know many of our nation’s public transportation systems are facing extraordinary challenges, and these funds will go a long way to assisting our transit industry partners in battling COVID-19. These federal funds will support operating assistance to transit agencies of all sizes providing essential travel and supporting transit workers across the country who are unable to work because of the public health emergency.” n PALISADE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCES CANCELLATION OF BREWS AND CRUISE FESTIVAL
The Brews and Cruise Festival postponed from spring to fall has been canceled for this year, the Palisade Chamber of Commerce announced. Andrew Weber, executive director of the Palisade Chamber of Commerce, said restrictions and health concerns related to the coronavirus pandemic prompted first the postponement and then cancellation of the festival. “Those considerations still hold,” Weber said. “So while we regret having to take this step, we are looking forward to our 2021 Brews and Cruise Festival in anticipation of bringing this popular festival back for those who look forward to this fun annual event.”
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A Grand Junction-based company ranks among the 300 largest public accounting firms in the United States in the latest list compiled for a national newsletter. Dalby, Wendland & Co. is included in the Top 300 Firms ranking compiled for Inside Public Accounting. The firm has made the list for six years. “Continuing to be recognized as a Top 300 public accounting firm in the nation is really an honor for us, and we aspire to ultimately be recognized as a Chris West Top 100 firm in the nation,” said Chris West, chief executive officer of Dalby, Wendland & Co. “We are expanding our service lines and hiring top-level talent to advance our expertise and provide comprehensive guidance with advisory and planning in addition to our core services of tax, client accounting services and audit,” West said. “We are grateful to our clients, employees and communities for helping us come so far.” The latest ranking is based on information from more than 540 firms that completed financial and operational surveys. The Top 300 list includes firms ranked from 201st to 300th with net revenue ranging from nearly $20 million to almost $1.6 million. Dalby, Wendland & Co. ranks 263rd with more than $14.1 million in net revenue. Dalby, Wendland & Co is the largest public accounting firm headquartered in Western Colorado with offices in Grand Junction as well as Aspen, Glenwood Springs, Montrose, Rifle and Telluride. The firm offers a range of accounting, auditing, bookkeeping and consulting services. For more information, call 243-1921 or visit www.dalbycpa.com.
n DOG TRAINING AND CONSULTING FIRM MARKS ANNIVERSARY WITH GIVEAWAY A dog training and consulting business will celebrate its first year of operation in the Grand Valley by offering $1,500 worth of training to a family that needs help, but can’t afford the services. A Misfits Tail will accept applications from Sept. 1 to 15 through its Facebook wall at www.facebook.com/Misfitstail. Applicants should submit videos explaining why they Jeison Vasquez need the package. Jeison Vasquez, owner and head trainer at A Misfits Tail, said he will offer his premium behavior modification and basic obedience services to a family in desperate need of help to deal with an uncontrollable dog. It’s a way, he said, to give back to a community that’s helped him build his business. Vasquez goes to clients’ homes to work with their dogs to correct problem behaviors, teach basic obedience and train puppies. He also works with clients to help them replicate his techniques and sustain behavioral changes. He relocated from Miami to the Grand Valley and brings to the venture more than five years of training and experience in dog training. “You have to care enough to make change,” he said. “Starting with the why is what allows us to understand the misfit and human. This opens the door for a true, non Band-Aid approach.” For more information about A Misfits Tail, call 985-0679 or visit https://amisfitstail.com. n CHICK-FIL-A RESTAURANT VOLUNTEERS LEND A HAND AT FRUITA CARE FACILITY Employees from the Chick-Fil-A restaurant in Grand Junction volunteered to complete outdoor cleaning and landscaping at the Willows, a care facility operated by Family Health West in Fruita. Joe and Kim Walsh, owners of the Chick-Fil-A, have kept their 80 employees on payrolls while the restaurant under goes a nine-week remodeling project scheduled for completion in October, but asked them to volunteer. “Our team members are like our family, and it’s just the right thing to do,” Joe Walsh said. “We just ask they volunteer somewhere or for someone that has meaning for them, and boy have they been busy.” At the Willows, the employees washed windows, pulled weeds and completed other cleaning and landscaping tasks. John Kelley, director of the Family Health Foundation, said the effort helped residents at the facility who’ve been on lock down since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. “Giving our residents a clear view of the beauty that surrounds them not only helps them with the stress of being isolated, but helps with living with dementia and Alzheimer’s.” “Until we can resume a normal staff workflow, volunteer opportunities like this have such a significant impact,” he added. F
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Krystle McAllister
Toni Heiden-Moran C. Castaneda
n REAL ESTATE FIRM ANNOUNCES NEW BROKER ASSOCIATE, TOP AGENTS Krystle McAllister has joined Weichert RealtorsHeiden Homes Realty in Grand Junction as a broker associate. Toni Heiden-Moran and Cynthia Castaneda were honored as the top-performing agents for July. McAllister brings to her duties experience in residential and commercial property management as well as construction administration and customer service. Heiden-Moran, owner and broker of the firm, posted the highest dollar volume for sales and most new listings. Heiden-Moran and Castaneda tied for the most closed transactions. Weichert Realtors-Heiden Homes Realty operates offices at 735 Rood Ave For more information, call 245-7777 or visit the website at www.heidenhomes.com. n COLORADO MESA UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT REAPPOINTED TO EDUCATION COUNCIL Tim Foster, president of Colorado Mesa University, has been reappointed to the Governor’s Education Leadership Council. Foster serves on the council as a postsecondary education administrator representing the four-year sector. Felicia Casto, a teacher with Mesa County School District 51, also was reappointed. Cheryl Gomez, a Tim Foster school principal in Montrose, was appointed to the council. The council develops strategies to improve the educational system and align education with work force needs. Members of the council discuss policy, legislative and financial initiatives to promote early childhood education as well as postsecondary programs that prepare students for the work force.
Janie VanWinkle
Joe Burtard
n THREE ELECTED TO BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF GRAND VALLEY POWER COOPERATIVE Janie VanWinkle, Don McClaskey and Joe Burtard have been elected to the Grand Valley Power board of directors. VanWinkle and McClaskey were re-elected as incumbents. Burtard was elected for the first time. The three each will serve three-year terms. They join six others on the board. The board is comprised of members who receive electric service from Grand Valley Power. They’re elected by members who submit mail-in ballots or vote in-person at an annual meeting. Organized in 1936, Grand Valley Power serves more than 18,000 consumers in Mesa County and surrounding areas. For more information, visit www.gvp.org. n MIND SPRINGS HEALTH ANNOUNCES ADDITION OF PSYCHIATRIST Dr. Patrick Sassoon has joined Mind Springs Health. Sassoon will work as a psychiatrist for the Western Colorado mental health and addiction treatment provider out of the organization’s location in Vail. Sassoon speaks English, Spanish and Portuguese and brings to his new duties experience working with Spanish-speaking patients. Patrick Sassoon For more information about Mind Springs Health, visit www.MindSpringsHealth.org. F
n PROXIMITY CEO AMONG FINALISTS FOR ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR
Josh Freed
Don McClaskey
Josh Freed, co-founder and chief executive officer of Proximity, was among the finalists for an annual entrepreneur of the year feature in ColoradoBiz magazine. Freed, the other finalists and winner were recognized in the July and August edition of the publication.
Proximity provides software to manage coworking spaces, including access, conference room scheduling, event management, internet access and membership billing. The company also offers training to manage coworking spaces and operates coworking spaces in Grand Junction, Montrose and Ridgway. For additional information about Proximity, visit www.proximity.space. F
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Aug. 20 n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce free webinar on the family medical leave law, 10 to 11 a.m. Registration required. www.gjchamber.org. n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Thursday Friends networking group, noon, Einstein Brothers Bagels, 401 B Jurassic Ave., Unit 1. 858-3894 Aug. 24 n Grand Junction Small Business Development Center free online workshop on maximizing finances during troubled times, 9 to 11 a.m. https://grandjunctionsbdc.org n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Business Builders networking group, noon Aug. 24 and 31 and Sept. 7, Enzo’s Ristorante, 707 Horizon Drive, Grand Junction. 858-3894 Aug. 25 n Colorado Department of Agriculture free virtual workshop for producers and food and beverage artisans on strengthening their brands, noon. Registration required. www.coloradoproud.org Aug. 26 n Business startup workshop, 1 to 3:30 p.m., Business Incubator Center, 2591 Legacy Way, Grand Junction. Admission $55. 243-5242 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business stand up paddleboarding event, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Highline State Park, 1800 11 8/10 Road, Loma. Admission $35, which includes paddle board rental. 858-3894 Aug. 27 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Thursday Friends networking group, noon, Munchies, 550 Kokopelli Drive. 858-3894 Sept. 1 n Free presentation for people considering careers in real estate, 5:30 p.m. Sept. 1 and 15, Weichert Realtors-Heiden Homes Realty, 735 Rood Ave., Grand Junction. Call for reservations. 245-7777 Sept. 2 n Young Professionals Network of Mesa County before hour event, 7 to 8:30 a.m., Kiln Coffee Bar, 326 Main St., Grand Junction. www.ypnmc.org Sept. 3 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Thursday Friends networking group, noon, Dragon Treasure, 2740 U.S. Highway 50, Grand Junction. 858-3894 Sept. 8 n Grand Junction Small Business Development Center free online workshop on keeping workplaces safe during a pandemic, noon to 1 p.m. https://grandjunctionsbdc.org Upcoming n Bookkeeping boot camp, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 10, Business Incubator Center. Admission $75, which includes lunch. 243-5242 n Business startup webinar, 1 to 3:30 p.m. Sept. 15 and 16. Admission $55. www.gjincubator.org. F
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