16 minute read
BUSINESS
You can still buy your son, daughter, nephew, or niece something special for graduation. Come in and see our large selection of bracelets, pendants, watches, and rings.
We also have lightning-fast service on all repairs and custom works.
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NO GRADUATION NO PROBLEM
May Emerald 40% off all Emerald Jewelry Birthstone of the Month
5718 S. 1900 W. Roy, UT
801-775-8343
aaronsjewelry.com
Women in Business
Mitzi Fluckiger
Aaron's Jewelry
Mitzi Fluckiger is the woman behind each precious stone they sell at Aaron’s Jewelry, and her childhood experiences really shaped her into who she is today. “I had to be a scrappy little thing because life was hard early on.” Her mother passed away when she was a year old, and her dad tried his best to raise them as a single parent for a time. For years, he was paying off medical bills, and going to college was not an option for them. Her dad taught her how to work hard, and she knew really early in life if she set her mind to something, she could figure out a way to accomplish it. Life became more challenging when her father remarried a woman that didn’t get along well with Mitzi and her siblings. They all left home early, and Mitzi tested out of high school so she could work full time. She worked an entry-level bookkeeping job during the day and waited tables at night. She learned how to do things like job costing, invoicing, and payroll, and she continues to use those skills today! Mitzi and her husband, Jay, bought into the family business of Aaron's Jewelry 6 months after they married. 5 years later, they bought out the others and were running the business from that point. Mitzi dove in and was trained in diamond grading and obtained her Gemological Institute of America certification. Mitzi said a lot of vendors were surprised to see a woman in charge of the spending. She explained that their dynamics as a couple are perfect. Jay is brilliant at making jewelry, and she is great at supplying him with what he needs to create. In the jewelry business, it’s common for high-dollar deals to not involve contracts, and Mitzi’s integrity towards the deals with her vendors has paid off. “Half of our vendors come see us in our store and let us shop through what they have and compare it against what we already have.” Mitzi raved about how much she loves each person who is a part of their business, whether they are vendors, employees, or customers. By far, the scariest transition in her life was when they decided to move out of their locations in the malls. They didn’t know if their customers would follow them to their new location. Their customers were loyal and, as Mitzi said, “It was the best thing we’ve ever done.” At Aaron's Jewelry, they repair jewelry and glasses, make custom pieces, and are famous for their elk ivory pieces. Mitzi is passionate about what she does, she is brave enough to take risks, and she knows when to say no.
Women in Business Karyl Chase
Weber Human Services
K
BY ANN PARK Karyl Chase is the Program Manager for the Senior Companion Program, and she loves her work. She says that, “We’re in the business of human connection.”
We're in the business of human connection.
The Senior Companion Program has been carefully designed to benefit the volunteers and the clients. This is a federal program that provides help to the elderly who want to stay in their homes, and also supports older adults to provide meaningful service. The elderly can become more and more socially isolated as physical limitations make it difficult for them to get out. And, as we’ve all experienced lately, social isolation isn’t good for anyone! In spite of the current health concerns, people are still providing service. One volunteer, former social worker, Linda Christensen, has a client, over 100 years old, who she usually visits several times a week. And in spite of social distancing, Linda was so concerned for her that she felt she had to go and check. She was determined to do it safely, so she donned a gown, mask, and gloves, and continued to care for her client. She was able to clean and restock her fridge and make sure she had plenty of fresh food. Our community is so ready to reach out a helping hand. Karyl says, “Right now, we need volunteers desperately. We have the capacity for 20-25 more volunteers that we can deploy very soon. Currently, we have a waiting list of about 200 people who need to be visited.” program, volunteers need to be between 55 and 90 years old, be in good health, and able to provide light support such as helping with errands and getting groceries, companionship, company, and engagement. As a volunteer, you get cost re-imbursement for miles driven, meals, etc. There is no cost to the clients. The goal is to enable seniors who live alone to stay in their homes. “Please contact us NOW and start the enrollment process remotely.” The best part of this program is the friendships that are formed when two people get to know each other and spend time together. There is a careful process of matching volunteers with clients, based on their needs and skills. Having a companion visiting is wonderful support for families who don’t live near their elderly relatives. The volunteers keep an eye on their clients and can alert family members if they have a health or wellness concern. It’s also a great support to families to have help running errands and so forth. It gives them time to just be together when they visit. Now is a great time to take the time to help those around us who are in need.
As part of the federal guidelines for this
30 ogdenconnection.com | May-July 2020
Connection Publishing M Melissa Spelts began gathering her experience with entrepreneurship as a child. Her parents started a business when she was eleven, so she and her siblings experienced the ups and downs of a new business. Melissa’s parents have been very supportive, and they have been a great source of advice. Melissa’s dad, who passed away in 2018, said, “There’s plenty of room at the top. You just have to be willing to work for it.” Growing up and watching her parents work so hard was not easy. Her father often worked two jobs in order to make ends meet. But this experience gave Melissa an idea of what to expect from starting a business. Melissa was a full-time mom for 16 years before she and Ryan founded Connection Publishing. She told the story of them coming up with the idea. “We were on a road trip to Lake Powell with our family, and we drove all night talking about plans for the business, and it just felt right.” They planned to use Ryan's sales and writing skills and Melissa's skills with photography, content creation, and ability to connect with readers. Melissa loves to brainstorm and come up with ideas. As they began to publish magazines, Melissa focused on listening to what people said about their interests and what was important to them. “I wanted the magazine to be about things that everyone could relate to. I wanted to create something that was awesome and beautiful.” Some of her favorite things about her job is connecting with members of the community, talking to business owners, and learning about the local history. Ryan and Melissa have big plans for Connection Publishing. “Our goal and dream is to have this be a business that will uplift people and help them feel like they belong to something special. We want the community and our team members to feel like they’re making a positive impact.” Running a business and being a mom at the same time is always a challenge. Melissa says it can be hard to make sure you give enough time to your children to nurture them and make them feel loved. However, magazines have deadlines, and it can be tricky to keep track of everything. “My hope is that my family will see their mom and dad running a business and know that it's good to pursue your dreams. They should know that it's a lot of work, but that’s okay too.” One of her favorite things about her job is connecting with
members of the community.
Women in
Business Melissa Spelts
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Hitting the slopes at Snowbasin Utah's Love of Skiing Start your day with a warm BREAKFAST!
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Women in
Business Kimberli Green
America First Credit Union
H
BY HAILEY MINTON Her mother worked for America First Credit Union, which led Kimberli Green to follow in her footsteps. Kimberli has two young boys and, while pregnant with her oldest, planned on being a stay-at-home mom. “I lasted about six months before I realized there had to be a way to do both.”
She said, at the time, there was a stigma attached to having a career and being a mother, but she had the very best example. Her mom was a professional and an excellent role model. In conversation, her mother asked if Kimberli loved her. “What a crazy question, yes,” she replied. Kimberli’s mom explained that she worked 40+ hours per week during her kids’ lives, and they still managed to have great relationships. She said if it was possible for their family, she knew Kimberli could also have a rewarding career, a family, and her boys would love her just as much. “I want people to realize you don’t have to pick one or the other,” Kimberli said. After receiving the ATHENA Award from the Ogden-Weber Chamber of Commerce in January 2020, Kimberli noted that the idea of a work-life balance is sometimes impossible. Some days she can be the best mom, and others she can be the best employee, but, “I’m never both of those people at the same time.” It’s a give and take to find what works for the individual. Kimberli began her America First career as a teller in high school. “One of the many reasons I love America First is that I’ve never felt I had to work harder because of my gender. People are rewarded based on what they accomplish,” she said. Her leaders
recognized she was working for the position she wanted, not just the job she had, so she gained experience in many company areas. About eight years ago, she stepped in as a branch manager. “I really found a love for sales and working with businesses,” Kimberli said. She’s now the Vice President of Business Development. She and her team bring growth to the credit union primarily by connecting companies to financial opportunity. “You see us out working with small and large businesses in banking services and helping their employees find financial success…We have a large focus on new accounts, commercial lending, merchant services, anything a business might need financially.” Kimberli loves her community and the opportunity America First has given her to work with people and being a connector for those around her.
Balancing motherhood and a career: You don't have to pick one or the other.
This is a challenging time for businesses. And now more than ever, we’re here to make sure your business has the financial tools & support it needs to face whatever comes its way.
801-215-5557 americafirst.com
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Financial Options with Wasatch Peaks
Special article brought to you by Wasatch Peaks Credit Union
Wasatch Peaks is here for you, especially during these difficult times. We have ensured that as we continue our efforts to slow the spread of the coronavirus, we are able to meet the financial needs of our community. We’ll help you understand your financial options that make the most sense for your individual situation moving forward. Here are some of the ways we can help:
MORTGAGE REFINANCING
Nothing beats the reassurance of an
affordable, fixed monthly mortgage payment. Refinancing your mortgage allows you to save more with lower rates. Our specialists can help you through the refinancing process.
AUTO LOAN REFINANCING
Lower your monthly payment and save money on interest over time by refinancing your auto loan with Wasatch Peaks. Improve the terms of your loan and enjoy a lower payment on your loan balance.
PERSONAL LOANS
Access extra money when you need it the most. A personal loan puts you in control of your finances with lower interest rates and flexible terms. Our variety of personal loan options can help for emergencies, bills, and more.
CREDIT CARD BALANCE TRANSFER
Transfer your high-rate balance to a Visa Platinum credit card from Wasatch Peaks. Each credit card option offers low rates and great benefits. Get back to spending without the hassle of fees.
HOME EQUITY LINE OF CREDIT
Add convenience and flexibility to your finances with a home equity line of credit (HELOC). Tap into the reserve equity in your home to free up the cash you need. Have a source of funds you can access in a hurry through our simple online application.
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From cars to RVs and motorcycles to boats, now is the time to apply for a secured loan and enjoy 90 days without a payment. Already have a loan? Refinance with us to get your first 90 days paymentfree! Do more of what you want to do with Wasatch Peaks. Get started or learn more about our financial options by calling our specialists at 801-627-8700 or apply online at wasatchpeaks.com. *Current Wasatch Peaks Credit Union loans are not eligible. No other discounts apply. With the No Payment for 90 Days offer, your interest will accrue from the date of the contract.
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Monday - Thursday 8 am-3 pm 10% OFF Any Purchase of $ 25 Dollars or more Not valid with any other coupons or discounts. Exp. 7/31/2020
449 W 12th St. Ogden | 801 • 393 • 6090
Special article brought to you by John Chevalier Collision Centerz Taking Care of People and the Cars They Drive
John Chevalier saw the location in Ogden that would eventually become John Chevalier Collision Centerz, and he knew it would do well as a vehicle body shop. He started out as a painter’s helper, worked his way up, and accrued around 14 years of experience in Collision management before he started working as a Collision Director for Miller Group. John worked to show the viability of the auto-body shop at that ideal location, but Miller Group chose not to pursue it. John Chevalier had always worked for dealerships; however, he was confident the auto-body shop would do well. John Watson was the owner of the property at
the ideal location, and John Chevalier talked to him about running the business independently. Watson was a hundred percent supportive, and they worked out a deal. The pro forma John Chevalier had worked out earlier went exactly like he thought it would! John Chevalier grew up in Ogden, attended Roy High School, then Weber State University, and continues to be a local Ogden resident. The fact that this is a local business sets them apart from other body shops because consolidators are trying to buy up the independent businesses. John Chevalier Collision Centerz is also the largest independent auto body shop in town. John said that when only a few people own the majority of the collision shops across the country, it can really limit the options insurance companies can choose from. This effects what the collision centers charge for their services, which can give consolidators a big advantage. John Chevalier Collision Centerz has major contracts with large insurance companies. “If we treat the insurance companies fair, they are going to stay with us, and that, perhaps, means even more business.” He explained how he appreciates all the employees and how they do such a good job. “We are established, we have a good name and a good store.” They are always looking for technicians. “It’s hard work, but there’s good money in it.” He said technicians can make between 60-80 grand a year, and estimators can make around 70-80. John explained how it takes time for a person to learn complicated aspects of the job, such as pulling a frame or a motor out of a car. Of the different programs he has seen, John recommends the auto-body program at UVU the most. He said the demand for technicians is industry wide. If you ever need auto-body work done on a vehicle, visit John Chevalier Collision Centerz. They get the work done fast, they are honest, and they have a knowledgable staff. When other autobody shops tell you no, check with John Chevalier. Not only are you getting top quality service, but you are supporting a local business and, therefore, supporting your own community.
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