The Business Times Volume 29 Issue 5

THE BUSINESS T IMES News MARCH 10-23, 2022

THE DEFINITIVE SOURCE FOR GRAND JUNCTION BUSINESS NEWS SINCE 1994

In this issue n Booking it

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A Grand Junction resident has literally written the book on helping girls and young women become entrepreneurs.

VOLUME 29, ISSUE 5

THEBUSINESSTIMES.COM

High-flying Trends venture n With incentives, West Star expanding. See page 2

Contributors Opinion 5 Business Briefs 6 Business People Almanac

n Award winners A Grand Valley business and three individuals won awards from the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce.

West Star Aviation repairs, maintains and refurbishes a variety of aircraft at facilities located at the Grand Junction Regional Airport.

n Praise, promises

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis offered praise as well as promises in a state of the state address in Grand Junction.

n FARM coming

Remodeling is under way in a building that will be converted into the Fruita Arts Recreation Marketplace.

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n Diverging trends

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Two trends diverge in the Mesa County real estate market: decreasing sales, but increasing dollar volume.

n Legislative update

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Along with what’s in place, Colorado legislators have introduced more measures that could affect employment law.

n Departments Almanac Business Briefs Business People Contributors News Opinion Trends

30-31 28-29 30-31 21-25 2-18 26-27 19-20

Business Times photo by Phil Castle

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THE BUSINESS T IMES News The Business Times

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March 10-23, 2022

Trends Contributors Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac

Author shares advice with young women entrepreneurs Phil Castle

The Business Times

Sylvia Scott has devoted much of her life to helping girls and young women succeed as entrepreneurs.

She’s organized national conferences, served as a mentor and coach and founded a global organization for young women in business. In the process, she’s met hundreds of girls and young women who’ve Sylvia Scott started and expanded prosperous ventures.

Scott shares her advice and insights — along with examples from female entrepreneurs who launched businesses as teen-agers — in what’s intended as a kind of guide book. “I just want to see more girls become entrepreneurs,” said Scott, who moved last year to Grand Junction.

“Realizing A Vision, Your Toolkit for Success,” is set for release March 11 and will be available from Amazon.

While the book offers information for any female entrepreneur trying to grow her business, Scott said those in high school might benefit most.

Scott brings to her book more than 25 years of experience in business development, event management, fund-raising and public relations.

She managed national conferences for the Women’s Leadership Exchange, an organization established to connect, educate and encourage women business leaders.

She also worked for the Center for Women & Enterprise, where she developed a financial literacy and entrepreneurship summit for middle school and high school girls.

She counseled women entrepreneurs for more than a decade — including a virtual mentorship with women entrepreneurs in Afghanistan.

See AUTHOR page 18

West Star Aviation plans to expand its operation and staff at the Grand Junction Regional Airport with the assistance of a package of state and local incentives. Below left, Dave Krogman oversees the facilities as general manager.

High-flying venture Incentives help West Star Aviation expand

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ven with more than 300,000 square feet of facilities at the Grand Junction Regional Airport, space is at a premium at West Star Aviation. Airplanes are packed into hangars like sardines — albeit sleek, jet-powered ones.

It’s a function of growing demand for the maintenance, repair and overhaul services offered there. It’s also a function of another growing trend: bigger aircraft.

“It’s just the way the industry’s gone. All the models have grown,” says Dave Krogman, general manager of the West Star operation in Grand Junction.

That’s why Krogman says he’s looking forward to the latest expansion, which will include a 40,000-square-foot hangar and an additional 32,000 square feet of shop and office space.

A $1.7 million package of state and local incentives made Steve Jozefczyk the decision to proceed with the $16 million project in Grand Junction an easier one, Krogman says. “They were huge.”

Steve Jozefczyk, deputy director of the Grand Junction Economic Partnership, says the combination of incentives is a first for Mesa County and one of only handful ever offered in Colorado. “The state recognized the impact of West Star in Mesa County.”

With a staff of more than 500, West Star ranks among the largest private employers in the county. The expansion is expected to create another 110 jobs.

See VENTURE page 17

Private equity firm with experience in aviation invests in West Star

A private equity firm with experience in the aviation industry has acquired West Star Aviation.

The Sterling Group succeeds Norwest Equity Partners as an investor in West Star.

“Sterling’semployee-focused approach to their business partnerships and their expertise in the general aviation space makes them the perfect fit for West Star,” said Jim Rankin, chief executive officer of Sylvia Scott’s new book for young female entrepreneurs is set for release March 11.

West Star Aviation.

Greg Elliott, a partner in the Sterling Group, also praised the partnership. “We believe that our experience coupled with West Star’s industry leading customer service capabilities will make us a powerful combination.”

The Sterling Group previously worked with owners to build Lynx FBO Network.

See INVESTS page 17

Jim Rankin

STORIES AND PHOTOS BY PHIL CASTLE

Greg Elliott

March 10-23, 2022

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Events to offer a look

well-rounded at coworkingperspective spaces to new Mesa County role and remote work force Phil Castle

as well as New England and Canada.

Phil Castle Whidden said people who work in The Business Times information technology aren’t just “geeks,” Frank Whidden brings what he but offer an important perspective because Two events will offer a look attocoworking spaces as well discussions about of considers a well-rounded perspective his they’re familiar withasnearly every aspect how to attract remote workers to Western Colorado new job as Mesa County administrator. operations and how work gets done. They “The Western Slope is tend a perfect place for those working in Whidden worked also to think about new and potentially the remote economy to land,” said Brian Watson, co-founder in information better ways of doing things in asking and technology and holds and co-owner of Alt Space. answering “what if ” questions. “They know The company hashow scheduled opening parties at its a master’s degree in to effectgrand change in an organization.” coworking spaces in Montrose and Grand Junction.

Thethat events computer information Whidden expects to bring same also will feature discussions with Aaron Bolzle, founder of a systems. But he also approach to his duties as administrator. holds a doctoral remote work recruiting program.

Whidden said it’s his role to help The events are setcounty for 5:30commissioners to 7:30 p.m. March at the degree in applied make 9and then Alt Space location at 210 E. Main St. in Montrose and 5:30 to management and implement decisions. The commissioners p.m. March 10 atintheturn location at 750 the Main St. in Grand Watson decisionBrian making and 7:30 represent residents of the Frank Whidden Junction. worked for more than county and express their will, he said. “We events has are open thethe public at no charge. Online 20 years as a minister. The Whidden worktofor people.” registration is required at www.riseofremotemontrose.com or worked for large and small organizations Whidden said he also considers himself www.riseofremotegj.com. in both the private and public sectors. a liaison between the commissioners and Watson his wife, Bonnie, coworking Whidden expects to draw on alland of his county staff, purchased and one ofthree the priorities is to spaces from Proximity last year, including a space the experiences in helping Mesa County make sure employees feel valued. in Whidden Innovation Center Colorado Mesa in commissioners make andMaverick carry out decisions. said heathopes not only to University improve morale, Grand Junction as well as spaces in Montrose and Ridgway.

Valuing staff and making the county but also take steps that will make Mesa Theyisopened spacesanin organization downtown Grand Junction an employer of choice amongtwo themore County for which people and Telluride. priorities, Whidden Aaron Bolzle said. So is planning want to work.

Watson wanted to Whidden host grandexpects openingthe that results in sustainableBrian funding and said they Meanwhile, parties last year to celebrate the new ownership, but postponed them because of the balanced budgets on a long-term basis. county to continue policies and initiatives COVID-19 pandemic.

Meanwhile, Mesa County will that support local business and economic events will offer food beverages as well are as anadditional opportunity continueThe to upcoming pursue efforts that promote a and development.

There steps to check out the coworking spaces, Watson said.

Moreover, he said he’s looking friendly business environment and that can be taken to make it easier for local forwarddevelopment, to the eventsWhidden as a waysaid. to talk with participants about the resources they to economic businesses to sell products and services need from coworking spaces.

Whidden officially began working as the county, he added. will joinat inthewhat are billed fromwill 6 tokeep 7 p.m. at both county Bolzle administrator beginning of as fireside Mesachats County working with events to discuss his experiences in recruiting and retaining remote workers and the year. He succeeds Tom Fisher, who was other government entities, organizations best as practices could work Western Colorado. hired countythatmanager in inSummit and institutions on fostering an environment of the Tulsa Remote whichand County,Bolzle Utah. was founding executive director that supports existingProgram, businesses offers grants and other benefits to remote workers who move to and work Whidden joined Mesa County in attracts new businesses, he said. from Tulsa, Okla.asBolzle now operates a consulting Whidden firm that helps attract August 2011 information technology saidcommunities there could be a and retain remote workers. director. In April 2014, he became deputy opportunities to encourage the additional said Alt Space not onlydevelopment to entrepreneurs starting ventures, but county Watson administrator for caters resource of businesses that provide also servesinthe growing reorganization number of remote workers who’ve movedindustry to Western management a staffing services to the agricultural as well andfour are director looking positions. for an alternativeastopromote workingMesa from home. thatColorado eliminated County as a distribution The pandemic accelerated the trend toward remote work, Watson said. What Before joining Mesa County, center for the region. was envisioned at athe beginning of the pandemic a temporary measure for Whidden worked for company providing Theasimportant thing is tohas consider many companies become a permanent transition to remote work forces. information technology services to issues from a well-rounded perspective, freed remoteInworkers to he live Whidden where they want. have collegesThat’s and universities. that role, said.

“WeMany won’t of be them myopic as we relocated to Western Colorado to enjoy the quality of life, recreational opportunities managed IT systems and services for look at things.” and comparatively lower cost of Illinois living, he said. institutions in Alabama, Arizona, ✦ With high-speed internet access, dedicated work spaces and conference rooms, coworking spaces offer an alternative to working from home, he said.

The Watsons operate one of the first fully automated operations of its kind in the country. They use Proximity software to handle most functions — from memberships to access to scheduling the use of conference rooms.

Rates vary from a daily drop-in rate of $30 during business hours to a $199 monthly flex rate that offers round-the-clock access. Dedicated desks are available for $350 a month. Members have access to any of the five Alt Space locations, enabling them to travel and work throughout the region.

Watson said Western Colorado is well-positioned to attract even more remote workers, and coworking spaces constitute an important part of the resources they need.

F The Business Times

FOR YOUR INFORMATION For more information about Alt Space and its coworking spaces in Western Colorado, log on to https://altspacecowork.com.

March 10-23, 2022

The Business Times

Business and individuals awarded for their efforts Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce bestows latest awards at its annual banquet JR’s Carriage Service is among the latest winners of annual awards presented by the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce honoring recipients for their community service.

JR’s Carriage Service, a company owned and operated by Joe Burtard, was named business of the year.

Karen Troester, president and chief executive officer of Grand Junction Federal Credit Union, was named Citizen of the Year. Jorge Pantoja, a tax manager at a Grand Junction accounting firm, was recognized as the young professional of the year.

Tim Foster, the former president of Colorado Mesa University, received the lifetime achievement award.

The chamber presented the awards during it annual banquet.

JR’s Carriage Service belongs to the Grand Junction as well as Fruita and Palisade chambers of commerce. Burtard serves as chairman of the Palisade Chamber of Commerce board and also belongs to the Visit Grand Junction advisory board. He helped found the Young Professionals of Mesa County. Nearly 30 organizations have received donations from the business.

Troester has been a member of the Grand Junction chamber for 18 years and serves as chairwoman of the Grand Junction Economic Partnership. She’s also supported business startups through the Business Incubator Center. She’s been involved with a variety of other organizations and activities, including the Daniel Ethics Fund Initiative at Colorado Mesa University, Girl Scouts of Western Colorado and National Junior College Baseball World Series.

Pantoja, a certified public accountant, works as tax manager at the Mark K. Ashman accounting firm in Grand Junction. He serves as president of the Western Colorado Latino Chamber of Commerce and a member of the minority business advisory council for the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade.

Foster served 17 years as president of Colorado Mesa University before retiring in 2021. During his tenure, student enrollment, the number of certificates and degrees awarded and square footage of academic space on the Grand Junction campus all doubled.

He previously served as executive director of the Colorado Commission on Higher Education. He also served in the Colorado House of Representatives and worked as a partner in a private law practice in Grand Junction.

In 2021, Foster was involved in a campaign in which voters approved a ballot measure allowing Mesa County School District 51 to increase debt to replace the 65-year-old Grand Junction High School.

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Joe Burtard

Karen Troester

Jorge Pantoja

Tim Foster

Registration open for economic summit

Registration is under way for an event that will address a range of issues associated with economic development in Western Colorado.

The Grand Junction Economic Partnership has scheduled the Western Colorado Economic Summit for 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

April 26 at the Grand Junction Convention Center. The summit serves as an annual meeting and fund-raiser for the economic development organization.

To register or obtain additional information, log on to the website at westcoeconomicsummit.com.

Britain Garza, community relations manager for GJEP, said the agenda hasn’t yet been finalized, but likely will Britain Garza include presentations on infrastructure, housing, real estate, transportation and work force development. The summit also will include a keynote luncheon presentation.

There’ll be a common theme, Garza said. “What kind of opportunities do we have moving forward?”

GJEP will present two awards: the Joseph Prinster Leadership Award for individual achievement in economic development and Charter Communications Spirit of Economic Development Award to a business or organization that demonstrates community awareness and involvement. Nominations will be accepted through March 31 and should be emailed to Garza at britain@gjep.org.

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March 10-23, 2022

Governor offers praise and promises in speech Phil Castle

The Business Times

Mesa County set an example in keeping businesses open during the COVID-19 pandemic and developing the workforce through apprenticeships and efforts to train more health care workers, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis said in a version of his state of the state address he delivered in Grand Junction.

“Mesa County led the way in so many ways,” Polis said.

The governor also detailed the ways he expects the state government to help businesses and families save money even as more funding is invested in public schools, infrastructure and safety. He signed an executive order calling for a plan to connect nearly all Colorado households to high-speed internet access over the next four years.

In addition to speaking at the event hosted by the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce, Polis participated in a workshop to discuss the design of a proposed mobility hub in Grand Junction connecting several modes of transportation.

The trip to Grand Junction also was part of the kickoff to the Polis campaign for re-election.

In his state of the state address, Polis praised the 5 Star Program developed by the Grand Junction chamber and Mesa County Public Health in response to the pandemic.

The program enabled businesses that demonstrated they implemented safety policies and procedures to operate at less restrictive levels. The program served as a model that was implemented statewide.

Polis also praised students at Central High School in Grand Junction who set up COVID vaccination clinics.

Mesa County demonstrated resilience in other ways, he said, in the aftermath of one of the largest wildfires in state history and a mudslide in the Glenwood Canyon that closed Interstate Highway 70.

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis delivers a version of his state of the state address at an event hosted by the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce.

(Business Times photo by Phil Castle) Looking ahead, the governor said Mesa County has taken the lead in work force development in implementing the CareerWise apprenticeship program as well as collaborative efforts among Colorado Mesa University, St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center and Community Hospital to train health care professionals. “We need to see more examples of this across the state.”

In the meantime, Polis said the state will help businesses and families save money.

Businesses were exempted from calculating or paying the business personal property tax for physical assets valued at less than $50,000. State legislators are considering this session another measure that would eliminate the $75 filing feee for starting a business.

A $600 million investment in the unemployment insurance relief fund will avoid payroll tax increases, Polis said.

Families will receive on average a $74 tax refund this year and $440 refund next year even as the state income tax rate is reduced, he said.

Free full-day kindergarten reduces the cost of child care for parents, as would a plan to implement free universal preschool by 2023. The effort also helps prepare children academically and keeps their parents in the workforce, Polis said.

An 8 percent increase in funding for kindergarten to 12th grade public schools is planned — the biggest increase in at least the last 20 years and perhaps ever, he said.

Increased investments also are planned for infrastructure, he said, including additional work on highways in Western Colorado as well as the Grand Junction Regional Airport.

Polis said efforts also are under way to make Colorado one of the 10 safest states within the next five years. Those efforts will include recruiting and training police as well as increased access to mental health service and additional support for domestic violence victims.

Polis joined with local officials in a ceremony in which he signed an executive order director directing the Colorado Broadband Office to develop a plan to connect more than 99 percent of Colorado households to high-speed broadband by 2027. “Stronger broadband access makes a stronger economy,” he said.

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March 10-23, 2022

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FARM coming to Fruita Retail and studio spaces planned for repurposed building Work is under way on refurbishing and repurposing a downtown Fruita building for a combination of retail and studio spaces.

Gavin Brooke and Alleghany Meadows expect to turn what was a health club and hardware store into the Fruita Arts Recreation Marketplace.

The FARM acronym also serves as a nod to the agricultural heritage of Fruita.

“The Grand Valley has a lot of creativity in solution that is looking for a place to precipitate,” Brooke said.

Fruita City Manager Mike Bennett said he’s eager for the completion of the renovations. “It’s exciting to see the vision, passion and attentiveness to Fruita’s community values the owners and developers of FARM have demonstrated,” Bennett said. “I look forward to seeing their vision come to fruition for the community to enjoy.”

Remodeling is scheduled for completion in August on the 13,000-square-foot building at 158 S. Park Square.

Reservations are being accepted for space.

Five new street front retail spaces facing South Mulberry Street and South Park Square will range in size from 1,300 to 1,900-square feet. Each space will include glass walls, skylights and openings onto patios and pedestrian friendly gathering areas.

Another portion of the building will house a total of 20 smaller spaces on two levels ranging in size from 100 to 600 square feet. The goal is to attract a variety of artists and other creative professionals as well as promote tenant interactions, art exhibits and other events.

The project already has attracted tenants, including Grand Jun Fermentation, a Grand Valley beverage producer that plans to move its production facility and open

FOR YOUR INFORMATION For more information about the Fruita Arts Recreation Marketplace, contact Sarah Wood at (970) 462-7747 or hello@farmfruita.com. a tasting room. Momentum Mountain Biking expects to open a second location in the building, offering mountain bike skills instruction, camps and tours.

FARM is the second project for Brooke and Meadows, who also founded the Studio for Arts + Works in Carbondale. SAW houses 25 tenants, includng artists, graphic designers, jewelers, sculptors and writers. The facility serves as a home for nationally recognized professionals as well as an incubator for aspiring artists.

SAW also serves as a venue for a variety of community events.

Brooke joined with other collaborators and the Town of Carbondale to launch the Third Street Center, a multi-tenant, non-profit center in the rehabilitated Carbondale Elementary School.

Brooke brings to the ventures experience as an entrepreneurial designer and real estate developer. He founded the Land + Shelter architecture, planning and development practice and is involved in residential development in several resort markets in the West.

Meadows is a entrepreneur and studio potter from Carbondale. He exhibits his works nationally, is founder of the Artstream Nomadic Gallery and co-fonder of the Harvey/Meadows Gallery in Aspen.

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March 10-23, 2022

Regional work initiative offers job seekers access to remote career services

A initiative launched in partnership with Associated Governments of Northwest Colorado (AGNC) offers 300 free one-year memberships to FlexJobs, a career service specializing in remote and flexible jobs.

Those interested in participating in the initiative should contact AGNC through the website located at https://agnc.org/remote-work-program.

Additional information also is available from Colorado Mesa University, Colorado Mountain College and Colorado Northwestern Community College.

AGNC received a grant to procure coupon codes for FlexJobs.

FlexJobs offers access to a total of more than 30,000 vetted full-time, part-time, temporary and freelance job openings in more than 50 career fields and at all experience levels. In addition to a free, one-year FlexJobs membership, participants receive a consultation with a FlexJobs employment specialist.

The initiative was designed to help rural communities in Western Colorado affected by unemployment and underemployment by providing remote job opportunities to families struggling with limited child care options as well as workers and new graduates who want to remain in the area. Remote workers also offer employers more opportunities to recruit talent in a tight labor market.

For more information about FlexJobs, log on to www.flexjobs.com.

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March 10-23, 2022

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March 10-23, 2022

Stats show hospitality business fared well in 2021 Hotel and motel business increased in Grand Junction in 2021 despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to year-end numbers reported by Visit Grand Junction.

“Grand Junction continues to grow as a community due to diversification among a variety of industries, not the least of which is Elizabeth Fogarty tourism,” said Elizabeth Fogarty, director of Visit Grand Junction, the city’s destination marketing organization.

“A healthy tourism economy benefits residents by attracting businesses we all enjoy — new restaurants, retail and activity based establishments,” Fogarty said.

Year-end numbers for lodging tax collections for 2021 exceeded those for 2020 as well as 2019. So did views of the Visit Grand Junction website.

Average hotel and motel room rates climbed to record levels in 2021, and local occupancy also exceeded the statewide average.

Lodging tax collections for 2021 rose 72.1 percent from 2020, a year affected by the pandemic and related restrictions.

However, 2021 collections also exceeded those for 2019 and prepandemic levels by 13.3 percent.

Hotels and motels reported record average daily rates for Grand Junction in 2021. The number represents the average rental income per paid occupied room in a given time period.

Six months in 2021 had the highest ADR in Grand

Junction regardless of the months to which they’re compared. Ten months in 2021 had the highest ADR for those months.

The highest ADR was for September at $118.36.

That’s 21.4 percent higher than the $97.48 in September 2019.

Grand Junction occupancy averaged 10 percent above Colorado for 2021. In June, occupancy reached 84.8 percent, nearly 16 points higher than the statewide occupancy of 73.3 percent for that month.

Page views at www.VisitGrandJunction.com rose 6 percent in 2021 over 2020 and 11.9 percent over 2019.

While residents and visitors both use the website, page views also constitute a measure of travel planning as well as a leading indicator of travel.

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City purchases recycling operation

The City of Grand Junction has purchased a curbside recycling operation.

The Grand Junction City Council approved a contract to purchase Grand Junction Curbside Recycling Indefinitely.

The city began a partnership with GJ CRI in 2007 when it entered into an agreement to pay certain expenses for the operation to continue. In return, money from the sale of residential commodities collected at the curb was returned to the city to offset program costs.

Customers won’t see any operational changes during the transition to new ownership, and curbside and drop-off recycling operations will continue.

Under the new ownership, city officials expect to expand recycling opportunities.

Steve and Elaine Foss started GJ CRI as a pilot project in 1989 to offer residential curbside recycling services. The operation grew to the point the two quit their jobs to manage the program. “We grew the fledgling pilot project into a citywide program,” Steve Foss said.

Jay Valentine, general services director for the city, said the growing program has kept GJ CRI and city staff busy. “Everyone involved can take pride in what has been accomplished and what will be accomplished by the city going forward.”

Valentine said. “This is a wonderful opportunity to continue the Foss’ passion for recycling in Grand Junction. The city is excited to continue providing recycling services to our residents.”

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March 10-23, 2022

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March 10-23, 2022

Groups partner to expand value-based health care An organization that provides services to rural hospitals and health care providers in Colorado and Utah will partner with a management services operation to expand value-based care.

The Community Care Alliance, an organization of the Western Healthcare Alliance based in Grand Junction, will join in a joint venture with Collaborative Health Systems.

Angelina Salazar The new venture, called Collaborative Choice Healthcare, will work to improve outcomes and lower health care costs for Medicare beneficiaries in rural Colorado communities by sharing information technology, building population health management programs and other efforts.

Anthony Valdés

“We are pleased to be partnering with CHS, which shares our commitment to ensuring health care remains local and affordable, while rewarding providers that collaborate and improve health outcomes for our rural communities,” said Angelina Salazar, chief executive officer of the Western Healthcare Alliance.

The alliance provides a range of services to a total of 32 members in

Colorado and Utah.

Anthony Valdés, president of Collaborative Health Systems, said his organization is dedicated to improving outcomes and lowering costs. “We look forward to working with CCA to improve quality, lower costs and

help Colorado physicians thrive in value-based care.”

Through the venture, Collaborative Health Systems will provide the Community Care Alliance with data and analysis, growth planning and care coordination.

The organizations will operate Medicare accountable care organizations and direct contracting entities as well as enter into value-based care contracts with Medicare Advantage organizations.

Dave Ressler, CEO of Aspen Valley Hospital and chairman of the CCA board, said the partnership will reward health care providers for improving the quality of their care for rural residents. “We undertook an in-depth evaluation process and believe CHS is the right organization to bring success by maintaining healthy populations throughout rural Colorado with better care at lower costs.”

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Grant enables school to install new playground

The Dual Immersion Academy in Grand Junction will improve its play area and other outdoor spaces with a $250,000 grant from the Colorado Health Foundation.

“We are very excited about the grant, and we know that physical activity and play are so important for our students’ health and social interaction,” said Monica Heptner, principal at the Dual Immersion Academy.

“Play is when kids have that socializing time. They learn about social cues and social language. For us, play is a huge piece in considering the social emotional learning side of a student,” Heptner said.

The new equipment won’t be just for students, though, but the community, she said.

The Mesa County School District 51 grounds department will remove the aging equipment behind the school and prepare the space for new equipment funded by the grant. The equipment will include a new playground set selected by a student vote, climbing structure and prekindergarten playground. The prekindergarten playground will include a fence thanks to a $1,500 grant from the Lions Club.

When the new equipment is installed, the Dual Immersion Academy will offer four play zones.

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March 10-23, 2022

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March 10-23, 2022

Colorado beef group leadership to change

A sixth-generation rancher who’s worked to advance the industry has been promoted to lead the Colorado Cattlemen’s Association.

The CCA board of directors named Erin Karney executive vice president of the advocacy group for ranchers and the beef industry in the state.

Karney succeeds Terry Fankhauser, who’s Erin Karney worked more than 20 years for the CCA and beef industry.

The transition is set for completion by Aug. 1.

“There are some big shoes to fill, but I believe Terry has prepared us for the challenges and Terry Fankhauser opportunities ahead.

I look forward to working with the members, board and industry partners in this new capacity,” Karney said.

While Fankhauser will return to his family’s ranch in Kansas, he also will take on a new role focusing on strategic efforts for the CCA and beef industry.

As executive vice president, Karney will oversee day-to-day operations of the organization as well as work with the board on budgets and policies.

Until her promotion, Karney had worked for the CCA since 2015 as industry advancement director.

Karney grew up on her family’s ranch in Las Animas and remains involved in that operation as well as herd of her own.

She’s a fourth-generation member of the association.

“CCA has been a huge part of my and my family’s life,” she said.

“I grew up in this association. I take great pride in ensuring that CCA is serving the membership as well as representing the beef industry in all facets.”

Fankhauser said he was grateful to the CCA and its membership for his past experiences as well as optimistic about the future.

“Serving as the EVP has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life,” Fankhauser said. “While there is much yet to be accomplished — now maybe more than ever — I continue to believe that member organizations are critical to the success of private industries like beef production. CCA is in great hands moving forward with an excellent staff and an exceptional EVP in Evin Karney.”

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March 10-23, 2022

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March 10-23, 2022

Chamber sets energy summit for March 30

Executives from a utility and minerals company are among those expected to speak at an upcoming energy summit in Grand Junction.

Alice Jackson, president of Xcel Energy-Colorado, and Jim Sims, vice president of external affairs for NioCorp Developments, both will deliver keynote presentations.

The Grand Junction Alice Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce scheduled the summit for 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. March 30 at the Grand Junction Convention Center, 159 Main St. The summit is open to the public.

Admission is $65, Jim Sims which includes lunch.

For reservations, visit the chamber website at https://gjchamber.org.

“The purpose of the event is to focus on the future of energy and what developments and technologies will be used to help power our energy needs,” said Diane Schwenke, president and chief executive officer of the chamber. “Our use of energy is only going to increase, but the sources and technology that will power our world in the future are being developed today.”

Jackson will discuss electric grids, the networks of power plants, transmission lines and distribution centers balancing the supply and demand of electricity.

Extreme weather events affected by climate change and vulnerability to cyber attacks have raised concerns about grids. With the increase in the use of renewable energy sources and capability of businesses and homes to produce their own electricity, pressures have increased to maintain customers and address aging infrastructure.

Sims will discuss his company’s efforts to produce critical minerals at a greenfield mining and processing project in Nebraska. The minerals are used in everything from appliances to electric vehicles to defense applications. But the United States relies on imports for those minerals.

Breakout sessions at the summit will cover such topics as geothermal energy, hydrogen hubs, natural gas and solar energy development and small-scale nuclear plants.

A luncheon panel presentation will feature presenters from the breakout sessions discussing the challenges and opportunities for energy.

A small trade show also is planned as part of the event.

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March 10-23, 2022

Venture

Continued from page 2 The new hangar will be the largest for West Star Aviation in Grand Junction and accommodate large aircraft, Krogman says.

A larger interior shop, composite shop and tool room also are planned.

Scheduled for completion late in 2023, the expansion will increase the operational footprint for West Star at Grand Junction to 380,000 square feet.

West Star also plans to expand its facilities in East Alton, Ill., and Chattanooga, Tenn.

“This expansion plan is our most aggressive investment in our future to date,” says Jim Rankin, chief executive officer. “We are committed to implementing sustainable growth that benefits both our customers and employees. These expansion projects will ensure West Star Aviation will be well positioned to meet customer demand needs for the next five years and beyond.”

Incentives helped in confirming plans to expand facilities in Grand Junction, Krogman says.

Jozefczyk says the Colorado Economic Development Commission approved a total of $1.7 million in state and local incentives for the project.

GJEP and the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce were involved in efforts to secure the incentives. “This is one of the largest ones we have done and one of the most impactful,” he says.

The package included $1.45 million in Colorado job growth incentive tax credits that will be paid out over an eight-year period as West Star adds staffing related to the expansion.

In addition, a cash incentive will be paid ouf of a state strategic fund. GJEP and Industrial Developments Inc. will pay a total of $246,000 to match the money from the strategic fund.

Jozefczyk says it’s rare for the Colorado Economic Development Commission to combine incentives from more than one program.

It’s a first for a Mesa County project and one of only a handful

The Business Times

A conference room at the West Star Aviation facility in Grand Junction offers a space for customers to meet with staff and select the carpeting and other finishes for interior renovations. (Business Times photo by Phil Castle) of projects in the state, he says.

The combination of incentives recognizes the role West Star Aviation plays as one of the largest private employers in Mesa County, he says. Moreover, those jobs pay an average annual wage of $51,318 — 11 percent above the average annual wage for the county.

Jozefczyk says the effort involves the best use of incentives in helping an existing manufacturing business with a large staff expand. “It’s kind of an ideal situation.”

Krogman says West Star will continue to offer the same services that have made the company the top-ranked maintenance, repair and overhaul provider in an annual magazine survey for seven consecutive years.

But with the latest expansion, there’ll be more room to do it.

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Invests

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Continued from page 2 Elliott has been involved in building several aviation companies over the past 20 years, serving as either a chairman or board member of Lynx as well as Encore, Trajen and Landmark Aviation.

Dave Krogman, general manager of the West Star Aviation operation in Grand Junction, said the partnership with Sterling Group will enable West Star to expand facilities at several locations.

In Grand Junction, a $16 million expansion will include a new 40,000-squarefoot hangar and an additional 32,000 square feet of shop and office space. West Star expects to increase staffing with 110 new positions.

West Star Aviation offers a range of services that include the maintenance and repair of airframes, engines and avionics as well as painting and interior refurbishments.

In addition to its facilities at the Grand Junction Regional Airport, West Star Aviation operates facilities in Aspen and Denver as well as in Arizona, Illinois, Minneapolis, Missouri, Tennessee and Texas.

Rankin said the partnership with Sterling bodes well for West Star. “As we enter our 75th year, the combined efforts of our experienced employees, our founders and now the Sterling team will allow West Star to continue to offer the best customer service in the industry.”

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The Business Times

March 10-23, 2022

Author

Continued from page 2 Scott is founder, creative director and chief executive officer of Girls’ Creating Enterprising Organizations Connection.

Girls’ CEO equips girls age 14 to 18 with the behaviors, skills and traits of successful women entrepreneurs. The group hosts conferences and podcasts and also offers coaching and mentoring.

While some girls and young women turn their passions into businesses, others look for alternatives to the corporate world. They all recognize opportunities, Scott said. “They see something that needs to change and set out to do it.”

The COVID-19 pandemic helped to accelerate interest in entrepreneurship, she said.

Still, girls and young women face barriers, Scott said, including access to money for startups as well as the stigma women can’t run businesses. Moreover, many girls and young women are still taught they should seek more financially secure occupations rather than risk pursuing their dreams.

At the same time, though, Scott said there’s never been a better time for girls and young women to start businesses.

More funding and assistance is available, including free services offered through the U.S. Small Business Administration and Small Business Development Centers. It’s a matter, she said, of knowing where to seek out help.

Some basics also apply in honing communication skills and developing a personal brand, Scott said. That includes everything from listening more carefully and thanking those who offer assistance to dressing to make the right impression.

Scott said she bases her advice and insights not only on her own experiences, but also the experiences of accomplished female entrepreneurs and what they said they wished they’d known early in their careers.

One of the examples of a successful female entrepreneur Scott includes in her book is that of Stacey Ferreira.

Ferreira joined with her brother, Scott, to found the online bookmark vault and password manager MySocialCloud.com.

The siblings sold MySocialCloud to Reputation.com. They later launched Forge, a flexible scheduling and talent sharing platform that was acquired by WorkJam..

Stacy Ferreira worked with Jared Kleinert to write “2 Billion Under 20: How Millennials Are Breaking Down Age Barriers and Changing the World.”

Now 29, Ferreira serves as director of new formats at GameStop.

While every girl and young woman might not enjoy that level of success, Scott said she will continue to help them to realize their potential. She said her role could include organizer, mentor, coach — or author.

Scott said she sees entrepreneurship as an opportunity for girls and young women to change their lives and the lives of their families. “I realized entrepreneurship would make a difference.”

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News Trends A Contributors tale of two trends Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac

March 10-23, 2022

The Business Times

Page 19

INDICATORS AT A GLANCE

n Business filings

t New business filings in Colorado, 35,625 in the fourth quarter, down 2.9% from the fourth quarter of 2020.

n Confidence

t Consumer Confidence Index 110.5 for February, down 0.6. s Leeds Business Confidence Index for Colorado, 58 for the first quarter, up 1.9. t National Federation of Independent Business Small Business Optimism Index 95.7 for February, down 1.4.

n Foreclosures s Foreclosure filings in Mesa County, 20 in February, up from 2 in February 2021. t Foreclosure sales in Mesa County, 1 in February, down from 5 in February 2021.

n Indexes

s Conference Board Employment Trends Index, 119.18 for February, up 1.03. t Conference Board Leading Economic Index 119.6 for January, down 0.3%. s Institute for Supply Management Purchasing Managers Index for manufacturing, 58.6% for February, up 1%.

n Lodging

s Lodging tax collections in Grand Junction, $249,070 for January, up 70% from January 2021.

n Real estate

t Real estate transactions in Mesa County, 336 in February, down 3.4% from February 2021. s Dollar volume of real estate transactions in Mesa County, $140 million in February, up 14.8% from February 2021.

n Sales

s Sales and use tax collections in Grand Junction, $7.5 million for January, up 23.8% from January 2021. s Sales and use tax collections in Mesa County, $4.6 million for January, up 19.4% from January 2021.

n Unemployment t Mesa County — 4.6% for December, down 0.1 t Colorado — 4.8% for December, down 0.3. t United States — 3.8% for February, down 0.2.

While real estate transactions fall, dollar volume climbs in Mesa County Phil Castle

The Business Times

Two trends continue in the Mesa County real estate market — decreasing transactions and increasing dollar volume.

It’s a function in part of low supplies pushing prices higher in the face of continued demand, said Annette Young, administrative coordinator at Heritage Title Co. in Grand Junction. “That basically is the story of the day.”

But Robert Bray, chief executive officer of Bray & Co. Real Estate in Grand Junction, Annette Young also sees the return of some seasonality to the local market with slowing in the winter months. Rising interest rates on mortgages also could exert more of an effect later this year, he said. “Stay tuned.”

Young said 336 real estate transactions worth a total of $140 million were reported in Mesa County in February. Compared to the same month last year, transactions fell 3.4 percent and dollar volume rose 14.8 percent.

Just 13 transactions accounted for a Robert Bray combined $26.3 million, Young said. They included the sale of the Mesa View mobile home park for $4.3 million, Ramada Inn property for $3.8 million and 14 acres of commercially zoned vacant land for $3.6 million.

For the first two months of 2022, 712 transactions worth a total of $303 million were reported. Compared to the same span in 2021, transactions fell 8.1 percent and dollar volume rose 27.3 percent.

According to numbers Bray & Co. tracks for the residential real estate market in Mesa County, 220 transactions worth a total of more than $90.5 million were reported in February. Compared to the same month last year, transactions decreased 16.7 percent and dollar volume increased 7.6 percent.

For the first two months of 2022, 439 residential transactions worth a total of more than $180.3 million were reported. Compared to the same span in 2021, transactions dropped 14 percent and dollar volume jumped 8 percent.

Young and Bray said low inventories and the resulting lack of selection hamper sales.

And though it’s a seller’s market, some people are reluctant to put their homes on the market for fear they won’t be able to purchase another home into which to move.

There were just 190 active residential listings at the end of February. That was a 10.8 percent drop from the same time last year and one of just four months over the past decade in which listings have dropped below 200, Bray said.

Meanwhile, home prices continue to increase. The median price of homes sold during the first two months of 2022 rose to $372,000.

That’s a 26.1 percent increase over the same span in 2021.

“I just don’t see how that sustains itself,” Bray said, adding he expects price appreciation to slow later this year.

Bray attributed decreasing transactions in part to seasonal slowing that’s returned two years after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. That means real estate activity likely will warm up along with the spring and summer weather, he said.

Many buyers are purchasing new homes with cash from the sale of their previous homes. But for those using financing, rising interest rates could play a bigger role, Bray said. Higher prices combined with higher interest rates could push some buyers — first-time buyers in particular — out of the market.

Meanwhile, property foreclosure activity has picked up in Mesa County, Young said. For the first two months of 2022, 26 foreclosure filings were reported. That’s up from just two for the same span in 2021.

Still, the three resales of foreclosed properties during the first two months of 2022 constituted less than 1 percent of overall transactions — far lower than the 10 percent threshold Young considers indicative of a health market.

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Small business optimism drops as worries mount A measure of optimism among small business owners continues to decline even as concerns mount over inflation, supply chain disruptions and labor shortages.

“Inflation continues to be a problem on Main Street, leading more owners to raise selling prices again in February,” said Bill Dunkelberg, chief economist of the National Federation of Independent Business. “Supply chain disruptions and labor shortages also remain problems, leading to lower earnings and sales for many.”

The NFIB reported its Small Business Optimism Index fell 1.4 points to 95.7 in Bill Dunkelberg February. It was the second consecutive month the index dropped below 98, the average reading over the past 48 years.

The small business advocacy group bases the index on the results of monthly surveys of members, most of them small business owners.

For February, six of 10 components of the index retreated.

Asked to identify their single most important business problem, 26 percent of those who responded to the survey upon which the February index was based cited inflation. That proportion has climbed four points since December to the highest level since the third quarter of 1981. Another 22 percent of respondents cited quality of labor and 11 percent cited labor costs.

A net 68 percent of owners reported raising average selling prices, a record high. Price hikes were most frequent in the retail, wholesale and construction sectors.

A net 45 percent reported raising compensation, down five points from a record reading in January. A net 28 percent said they expect to raise compensation in the next three months, however.

The proportion of business owners who said they expect the economy to improve fell another two points from January. At a net negative 35 percent, more respondents said they anticipated worsening conditions.

A net 27 percent reported plans for capital outlays, also down two points. A net 8 percent said they consider now a good time to expand, down a point.

A net 19 percent of owners reported plans to increase staffing, down seven points. A net 48 percent reported unfilled job openings, up a point.

The share of those who said they expect more sales fell three points to a net negative 6 percent.

The share of those reporting higher earnings remained unchanged at a net negative 17 percent. Among those reporting lower earnings, 28 percent blamed weaker sales and 28 percent cited higher material costs.

A net 2 percent of owners reported plans to increase inventories, down a point. A net 7 percent said existing inventories were too low, unchanged from January.

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The Business Times

Page 20

U.S. payrolls increase, jobless rate decreases Job growth continues to accelerate in the United States even as the unemployment rate edges down.

Nonfarm payrolls increased 678,000 in February and the jobless rate decreased two-tenths of a point to 3.8 percent, according to the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates.

The monthly job gain was the largest since July. The jobess rate has retreated to its lowest level since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in the U.S. Moreover, estimated payroll gains for January and December were revised upward a total of 92,000 to 481,000 and 588,000, respectively.

Still, U.S. payrolls remain 2.1 million lower than the prepandemic level in February 2020.

For January 2022, 6.3 million people were counted among those unsuccessfully looking for work. Of those, 1.7 million have been out of work 27 weeks or longer.

Another 4.1 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 participation rate edged up a tenth of point to 62.3 percent, still about a point below the February 2020 level.

Payroll gains in January were spread out among a number of industry sectors.

Employment increased 179,000 in leisure and hospitality, 95,000 in business and

Labor index rises

An index tracking labor trends in the United States has increased, signaling continued job growth in the months ahead.

The Conference Board reported its Employment Trends Index rose more than a point to 119.18 in February with gains in seven of eight components.

Frank Steemers, senior economist at the Conference Board, said hiring and rentention likely will remain challenges for the forseeable future.

As the U.S. unemployment rate approaches 3 percent, the tight labor market will push up wages, Steemers said.

F professional services, 64,000 in health care, 60,000 in construction, 48,000 in transportation and warehousing, 37,000 in retail trades and 36,000 in manufacturing.

The average workweek lengthened a tenth of an hour to 34.7 hours. The average manufacturing work week lengthened four-tenths of an hour to 40.7 hours.

Average hourly earnings for employees on nonfarm payrolls rose a cent to $31.58.

Over the past year, average hourly earnings have increased 5.1 percent.

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March 10-23, 2022

Consumer Confidence Index falls

A measure of consumer confidence has declined for two months in a row on less upbeat expectations for business and labor conditions.

The Conference Board reported its Consumer Confidence Index decreased six-tenths of a point to 110.5 in February.

A component of the index tracking current conditions increased.

But a component tracking the short-term outlook dropped.

“Expectations about short-term growth prospects weakened further, pointing to a likely moderation in growth over the first half of 2022,” said Lynn Franco, senior director of economic indicators at the Conference Board. “Meanwhile, the proportion of consumers planning to purchase homes, automobiles, major Lynn Franco appliances and vacations over the next six months all fell.”

The New York-based think tank bases the index on the results of monthly household surveys. Economists monitor the index because consumer spending accounts for more than two-thirds of economic activity.

More optimistic assessments of current conditions pushed up the present situation component of the index six-tenths of a point to 145.1.

The proportion of consumers responding to the survey upon which the index was based who said business conditions were “good” fell 1.3 points to 18.7 percent.

But the share of those who said conditions were “bad” fell more — 2.7 points to 24.7 percent.

The proportion of consumers who said jobs were “plentiful” fell 1.2 points to 53.8 percent. The share of those said jobs were “hard to get” slipped two-tenths of a point to 11.8 percent.

Less upbeat outlooks for the next six months puled down the expectations component of the index 1.3 points to 87.5.

The share of consumers who said they expect business conditions to improve edged down two-tenths of a point to 23.4 percent. The proportion of those who anticipated worsening conditions fell 1.6 points to 18.1 percent.

The share of those who expect more jobs to become available in the months ahead fell eight-tenths of a point to 21.3 percent. The proportion of those who anticipated fewer jobs increased 1.3 points to 17.9 percent.

While 15.7 percent of consumers said they expected their incomes to increase — down a half point — 12.1 percent said they expected their incomes to decrease.

That’s unchanged from last month.

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Leading Economic Index retreats, but still forecasts growth ahead An index forecasting economic conditions in the United States declined for the first time in nearly a year as concerns mount over the COVID-19 pandemic, higher prices and supply chain disruptions.

The Conference Board reported its Leading Economic Index (LEI) retreated three-tenths of a percent to 119.6 in January. The decline was the first since February 2021.

Over the past six months, the LEI rose 2.6 percent, less than the 4.6 percent gain in the six-month span before that.

Still, separate measures of current and past conditions increased in January. And the index continues to signal improving conditions in the months ahead.

“Widespread strength among the leading indicators still point to continued, albeit slower, economic growth into the spring,” said Ataman Ozyildirim, senior director

of economic research at the Conference Board, a think tank based in New York. “However, labor shortages, inflation and the potential of new COVID-19 variants pose risks to growth in the near term.”

The Conference Board projects gross domestic product — the broad measure of goods and services produced in the country — to grow 3.5 percent on a yearover-year basis in 2022.

For January, six of 10 indicators of the LEI advanced — building permits, interest rate spread, leading credit and new orders indexes and new orders for capital and consumer goods. Average weekly manufacturing hours, consumer expectations and stock prices retreated. An increase in average weekly initial claims for unemployment benefits also pulled down the index.

The Coincident Economic Index rose a half a percent to 107.9. The index has increased 1.4 percent over the past six months.

For January, all four indicators advanced — industrial production, nonfarm payrolls, personal income and sales.

The Lagging Economic Index increased seven-tenths of a percent to 110.2. The index has increased 1.2 percent over the past three months.

For January, four of seven indicators advanced, including commercial and industrial financing, consumer credit and the cost of services. A decreased in the average duration of unemployment also bolstered the index. Labor costs pulled down the index. Inventories and the average prime rate charged by banks held steady.

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Trends Contributors Opinionlaws proposed Employment Business Briefs Business People Almanac

March 10-23, 2022

The Business Times

Page 21

COMING ATTRACTIONS

n The Business Incubator Center in Grand Junction has scheduled workshops and webinars offering information about a range of topics.

A bookkeeping boot camp is set for 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 10 at the center, 2591 Legacy Way. Participants will learn how to set up and track accounting records and gain more control of their businesses by learning how balance sheets, income statements and cash flow projections are prepared and what they indicate about operations. Admission is $75, which includes lunch.

A free webinar on the basics of Google ads is set for noon to 1 p.m. March 16.

A free webinar on virtual vending tips and tricks is set for noon to 1 p.m. March 22.

The next session of a business startup workshop is set for 1 to 4:30 p.m. March 24.

The workshop will cover the business planning process, including financing options, legal structures, licensing, state registration and trade name searches. Admission is $55.

For more information about upcoming events, programs and services at the Business Incubator Center, call 243-5242 or visit http://gjincubator.org. n The Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce has scheduled its next quarterly membership meeting for noon to 1:30 p.m. March 14 at the Mesa County Workforce Center at 512 29 1/2 Road. Admission is $20 for chamber members, $25 for others.

For more information about upcoming chamber events, call 242-3214 or visit the website at https://gjchamber.org. n The Western Colorado Human Resource Association will offer a presentation on change management as part of its upcoming membership luncheon.

The event is set for 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 16 at the Mesa County Workforce Center.

Kyle Stone, an associate professor of business at Colorado Mesa University, will lead a presentation on change management.

To register for or obtain more information about the meeting, log on to the website located at www.wchra.org.

Legislators considering noncompete, marijuana and COVID measures In addition to regulatory changes already in place for 2022, state legislators have introduced measures that will affect Colorado employers if they become law.

Here’s a look at just some of those bills: n House Bill 22-1216 — restrictive employment agreements. As I discussed in my column in January, Colorado ranks among the most restrictive states on the use of noncompete agreements. HB 22-1216 would further restrict the use of employment agreements.

The proposed bill places restrictions on a variety of employment agreements in addition to traditional noncompete and nonsolicitation agreements.

Dean The bill would require employers to give Harris current or new employees 14 days of notice before implementing a restrictive employment agreement. The bill prohibits restrictive employment agreements with low-wage workers except for confidentiality and training repayment agreements. But the disingenuous definition of a low-wage worker is a worker who makes less than the Colorado threshold for a highly compensated worker. Apparently, Colorado has no mid-level earners.

The current minimum annual salary for a highly compensated employee in Colorado is $101,250. Finally, HB 22-1216 applies the reasonableness test for noncompetition agreements under Colorado case law to all restrictive employment agreements and limits the duration of these agreements. n HB 22-1152 — prohibition against employer adverse action for marijuana use. Colorado law allows an employer to take disciplinary action against employees for a positive marijuana test or using marijuana off-duty. Because marijuana remains a Schedule 1 controlled substance and is illegal to possess under federal law, Colorado protections for legal off-duty activities don’t apply.

HB 22-1152 would prohibit an employer from taking adverse action against employees for using medical marijuana on the premises of the employer during working hours or retail or medical marijuana off the premises of the employer during nonworking hours. The prohibited actions extend to discrimination in matters of compensation, terms, conditions or privileges of employment or any action that adversely affects an employee.

An employer may restrict retail or medical marijuana if — borrowing the exceptions found in the Colorado legal off-duty activities law — the use of marijuana relates to an employee’s bona fide job requirements or responsibilities or creates an actual or apparent conflict of interest with the employee’s responsibilities to the employer. HB 22-1152 makes no explicit exception for marijuana use that creates a safety concern for the employer.

Arguably, any safety threat would fall under the exceptions for employment responsibilities or conflicts of interest. This could become fertile ground for litigation if this bill passes.

n HB 22-1144 and HB 22-1200 — COVID-related issues.

HB 22-1144 would require an employer who imposes COVID-19 vaccination or testing as a condition of employment, or a state agency that imposes a COVID-19 vaccine or testing requirement, to allow a person subject to the requirement to instead provide documentation demonstrating the person has naturally acquired immunity to the disease.

HB 22-1200 would require employers that impose a COVID-19 vaccine requirement to grant an employee an exemption if the employee submits a written request stating compliance with the requirement would endanger the employee’s or household member’s health and well-being or conflict with the employee’s sincerely held religious beliefs.

The bill requires an employee only to submit a written waiver request to the employer explaining the need for the exemption.

A religious belief includes “theistic and nontheistic moral and ethical beliefs as to what is right and wrong that are sincerely held with the strength of traditional religious views.” Interestingly, the bill provides no penalties for violations. But if an employer terminates an employee for failing to comply with the employer’s COVID-19 vaccine requirement, the terminated employee remains eligible for unemployment benefits.

The journey for a bill to become law is usually a marathon, not a sprint. It’s too early to handicap the odds of these bills becoming laws. The bills on restrictive employment agreements and marijuana use are sponsored by Democratic legislators, while the bills on COVID-related matters are sponsored by Republican legislators. Democratic legislators hold a significant majority in both houses of the Colorado Legislature. This would seem to give the restrictive employment agreement and marijuana use bills a foot up in the lawmaking process.

But the path to legislation isn’t always a marathon. One bill didn’t even get off the starting blocks. HB 22-1130 would have recreated the exemption to the sick leave requirements of the Healthy Families and Workplace Act for employers with less than 16 employees. This exception applied only in 2021. The HFWA requires all employers, regardless of size, to offer sick leave to employees. This bill was postponed indefinitely in committee, almost certainly a death blow.

The Employers Council posts regular updates for its members on the status and anticipated effects of proposed legislation. For more information on the history of these and other employmentrelated bills, all employers can visit https://leg.colorado.gov/bills.

Dean Harris is the Western Slope Area managing attorney for the Employers Council. The Employers Council counsels, represents and trains member employers in all phases of employment relationships. Contact Harris at dharris@employerscouncil.org or (970) 852-0190.

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Women’s conference scheduled for March 31 The Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce has scheduled its annual women’s conference.

The conference is set for 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 31 at the Cameo Shooting and Education Complex, located at 3934 I 9/10 Road near Palisade.

The conference will include a keynote lunch presentation by Kayla Holst, deputy director public affairs officer with the Veterans Affairs Rocky Mountain Network.

Breakout sessions will cover such topics as managing stress, marketing, negotiating skills and prioritizing wellbeing in the midst of change.

A panel discussion on female leadership in government will feature officials with the Mesa County Commission and Grand Junction and Fruita city councils.

Immediately after the conference concludes, participants may join in networking or shooting at the complex.

Tickets sell for $50 for chamber members and $60 for others. Table sponsorships sell for $500 and include eight tickets.

To register or obtain additional information, call 858-3894 or visit https://fruitachamber.org.

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Kayla Holst

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The Business Times

March 10-23, 2022

Develop your team and business for greater freedom Most business owners dream of greater wealth, freedom and happiness — to exert more control over their destinies.

They start their companies to achieve financial, professional and personal independence and then relax, travel, give back and enjoy their lives as much as possible.

Many owners never realize their dreams, though, because they lack the mindset, processes and people to make them a reality. A number of key factors contribute to the inability of a business to run effectively without the owner’s hands-on presence. Understanding these factors and making the necessary adjustments will position you to make your dreams come true. n The owner is the only team Marcus member who can handle all aspects Straub of the business. If you’ve created a situation in which you’re the only one who can run your business, you’re tied to daily operations by necessity. Your success depends on hiring caring and competent individuals with positive attitudes and then providing them with ongoing professional development so they can excel and become leaders themselves. n The owner micromanages and fears giving up control.

If you believe no one else can run your business the way you do, you’re right. You’re unique, and so is your perspective of your business. At the same time, though, there are individuals who could do an excellent, if not better, job than you. Relinquishing control appropriately can be learned and is made easier once competent team members, effective delegation and trust are in place. n The owner hasn’t mastered the art of delegation or understands the value of empowering the team. Learning to delegate tasks and projects to team members is liberating

If you’ve created a situation in which you’re the only one who can run your business, you’re tied to daily operations by necessity. Your success depends on hiring caring and competent individuals with positive attitudes and then providing them with ongoing professional development so they can excel and become leaders themselves.

for you and empowering to them. One must become proficient at crucial components of delegation to handle it effectively. Every business owner I coach is amazed at the freedom they gain, the ownership their team members take on and how much smoother their business runs once effective delegation is implemented. n Managers aren’t competent to run the business.

One powerful byproduct of delegation is it enables owners to discover who’s capable of taking on a job and who isn’t.

If, through effective delegation and careful observation, you discover managers aren’t capable of running day-to-day operations, you face two choices: develop or replace them. n The business lacks structure, processes and a system of practical procedures. It’s imperative to put in place a system of simple and effective processes and operational procedures to deal with the situations that will inevitably arise. The success of your company depends on it. Business owners are often surprised and always delighted to discover how easy these are to create as well as how appreciated and liberating they are to everyone involved.

n The owner hasn’t built a team that can run the business in his or her absence. The fear associated with letting go of overseeing day-to-day operations can be overcome by building a team that can run the business — and run it well — without the owner’s presence. When the success of your business depends solely on you, you trap yourself into a job. When you build a competent team and the responsibility for the success of the business is spread out through a team approach, everyone benefits — including the owner.

There’s a lot to consider in developing successful hands-off leadership. But with qualified coaching and training, the thriving business of your dreams is within your reach. As you adopt a more powerful mindset; implement structure, processes and systems; hire leaders — and let go of those who aren’t — and offer them ongoing assistance in developing their potential, your dreams of greater freedom, happiness and success will be realized.

Countless businesses thrive under the day-to-day leadership of managers and team members, with the owner providing general oversight, direction and new ideas. As you release your fears and build an empowered team that can handle daily operations, this could be your reality, too.

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 (970) 208-3150, marcus@ligcoaching.com or through the website located at www.ligcoaching.com.

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RentaSpace.DiegoCorp.com

March 10-23, 2022

The Business Times

Grow a family business — from the inside Are you considering ways to grow your business or planning for your retirement? You might hire new employees, bring in outside managers or have family members join the business and eventually take over. Bringing family into your operation could be good business — or, unfortunately, a fiasco.

Some family businesses start out with teen-age children working part-time or during the summers with no intention of joining the operation in the future on a full-time basis. Other family businesses consider this casual employment as a proving ground for future full-time employment and eventual management or ownership roles.

Bringing family members into an existing business can worry non-family employees about special treatment or having to take on extra Janet work because a family member doesn’t know Arrowood the ropes or wants to do the work. So what can you do to alleviate or mitigate these concerns?

If you’re grooming a family member as a potential successor or future owner, it’s essential to create and enforce a true business working relationship without preferential treatment and maintain the same expectations you’d have of any other employee in that position. Remember: You’re training a potential successor, so it’s important to instill in the family member your goals of a successful transition and a growing business that continues once you retire.

Recognize your family member is like any other new employee. As they gain experience, their confidence will grow.

But you don’t want them to become overconfident. At the same time, accept that they’ll make mistakes and help them learn from their mistakes. Treat their mistakes as you would those made by any other employee.

If you were bringing in a successor who’s not related to you, you expect miscommunication and crossed wires as part of the learning curve. The same miscues are going to happen with family

Make sure you have the appropriate financial umbrella in place: a buy-sell agreement, key person insurance, an agreed business valuation and an exit strategy, at a minimum. members, but the ensuing problems could be more personal and, therefore, more severe.

It’s critical to build trust between you and a family member who’s a potential successor. Lack of trust quickly leads to misunderstanding and dysfunction. Your family member, often your child, must be treated as a peer. That’s a new work experience for both parties.

Having a written scope of work and list of expectations offers a valuable way to set the stage for trust-building and goal- setting while reducing the perception — or reality — of preferential treatment for the family member.

Whether your intended successor is an outsider or family member, make sure you have the appropriate financial umbrella in place: a buy-sell agreement, key person insurance, an agreed business valuation and an exit strategy, at a minimum.

Working with family members can be a joy, a nightmare or something in between. Setting rules, roles and expectations improves the experience and ensures your family members know what they’re getting into if they decide to continue the family business and take over ownership.

Janet Arrowood is founder and managing director of the Write Source, a Grand Junction firm offering a range of services, including grant and proposal writing, instruction and technical writing. Reach her at janet.arrowood@thewritesourceinc.com.

For more information, log on to www.TheWriteSourceInc.com.

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The Business Times

March 10-23, 2022

Clinically integrated networks play key role in health care I’m often asked what we do at Monument Health. As a clinically integrated network, or CIN, our involvement with health care providers and insurance companies can be complex and difficult to explain.

Clinically integrated networks work with insurance companies, doctors and patients to align incentives among the three parties and better coordinate health care. CINs can be a powerful catalyst for achieving what’s called the triple aim of health care — improving the health of populations and experience of care while reducing per capita costs.

Improved quality and lower costs have proven mutually achievable goals Ashley using the CIN care model. We’re able Thurow to do this because we hold physicians accountable to standards for access, targeted quality improvement and cost reduction. We focus on preventive care and helping patients live healthy lives.

And we monetarily reward doctors when they achieve better health outcomes. In other words, we have financial responsibility to ensure our providers and hospital partners deliver better care according to network standards.

Compared to the rest of the United States, Colorado is behind the curve in using CINs to achieve the triple aim. States like Utah and California have had CINlike organizations engaged in this work for decades.

The ultimate goal, which can be seen in those states, is downside risk — doctors take on full medical and financial responsibility for their patients. Kaiser Permanente, Geisinger Health System and Intermountain Healthcare are all well-known examples of organizations that operate this way. These organizations align providers and health insurance to reward responsive care and cost containment.

We refer to this full risk, all-inclusive scenario as capitation.

In a capitated model, doctors are paid one fixed amount to care for an entire population of people. Physicians then have the freedom to engage with patients much like the house call doctor of the early 1900s — developing close relationships focused on staying healthy. Not only is this model more rewarding for doctors and patients, it also saves consumers a lot of money.

For a health care entity like a hospital or primary care clinic, jumping into a capitated model is a complicated endeavor that requires a considerable amount of infrastructure, particularly data infrastructure. Most CINs begin by taking on partial risk while they build out infrastructure. An example of partial risk is the arrangement Monument Health has with Rocky Mountain Health Plans to support its Medicare advantage plan. Our providers aren’t paid an all-inclusive, fixed amount.

However, we partner to manage costs and patient care. If we’re successful and the plan is rated high quality with reasonable spending, we all share in the financial benefits.

More examples abound at Monument Health, where we specialize in supporting hospitals and primary care providers with data to better coordinate patient care. We’ve built a data infrastructure that enables us to look at medical claims and electronic health records (EHRs) to understand areas where patients seek too much care or not enough. We use this data to encourage patients to see their primary care doctors for annual exams, preventive blood work, cancer screenings and more. We work closely with doctors to better coordinate care — patients are fully supported when they leave the hospital after experiencing an emergency, for example.

Our goal is to keep patients healthy so they’re less likely to visit an emergency room — the most expensive place to go for care—to address their health care needs.

The result is a healthier community, which benefits us all.

Statewide, there are thousands of doctors starting to

take on financial risk for their patients, coordinated with the help of CINs. On the Front Range, Centura’s Colorado Health Neighborhoods, UC Health’s Coordinated Care Colorado and Children Hospital’s Pediatric Care Network constitute examples of similar entities engaged in this work.

Monument Health is the largest CIN on the Western Slope and among the largest in the state. We serve more than 20,000 patients, a number I expect to quadruple in coming years as the federal government and private insurance companies push for doctors to move into downside financial risk.

Ultimately, doctors participating in CINs to take on financial risk is good news for patients because it fosters strong provider relationships and focuses on prevention.

As this movement progresses, patients should expect to become more engaged in a primary care setting and have less need to self-navigate their own health care. Ideally, the patientprimary care doctor relationship will be front and center for all Coloradans. The primary care doctor will be the go-to resource for those with questions or concerns relating to their health.

While the concept of preventive care with a trusted physician seems simple, it’s fundamentally absent from the lives of many Coloradans. But with the support and growth of CINs like Monument Health, the paradigm is changing.

Ultimately, prevention is the key to slowing the relentless growth of health care costs. CINs can serve as the catalyst for prevention-focused change in health care.

Ashley Thurow serves as executive director of Monument Health, a clinically integrated network based in Grand Junction. She brings to her position 15 years of experience in value-based care models. Reach her at Ashley.Thurow@monumenthealth.net. For more information about Monument Health, log on to the website at https://monumenthealth.net.

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March 10-23, 2022

The Business Times

Page 25

The 11 steps to a successful business sale Business owners selling their operations face one of the biggest emotional, financial and impactful transactions of their lives. The process requires expertise, experience and attention to detail to maximize financial returns and legal protections.

When should you start thinking about selling or consider an alternative disposition plan? Sellers nearing retirement should start the process three to five years before their desired exit.

Most appraisers, banks, buyers and equity groups consider not only year-to-date business performance, but also performance over the past three years or more.

Moreover, the marketing and transaction process also can take time — 12 to 18 months on average.

This makes it important to meet with a professional to evaluate current value and marketability as well as implement the changes that could be required for a more expedient and profitable sale when the time comes. As with any important event, finding the right advisor is critical.

The best advisor is the one who has the expertise to guide sellers through the entire process. A professional advisor, also known as a business intermediary, can bring together all the stakeholders as well as handle confidentiality, due diligence, marketing and transactions.

Here are 11 steps to a successful business sale: n Introductory meeting. It’s important for sellers to build rapport with their advisors and learn about their experiences and firms as well as the listing and selling process. It’s equally important for advisors to gain an understanding of the businesses and the expectations of the owners.

n Business evaluation. This stage involves gathering preliminary financials and other applicable information needed to develop a full valuation. n Listing and price discussion. An advisor will present an analysis of the business, address questions about financials and operations and present a range of values. n Signed listing agreement. If expectations match and the seller wants to move forward, the advisor will prepare a listing agreement. n Marketing and due diligence information gathering and preparation. Once a business is officially listed, the advisor will begin collecting the information necessary to complete an offering memorandum and sales package to present to potential buyers. The seller will approve all forms, including non-disclosure agreements and other applicable documentation. n Confidential marketing and buyer selection. Every business has a different profile for the ideal buyer and requires a customized marketing plan. While providing full and exclusive confidentiality through non-disclosure agreements, the advisor will focus on presenting the opportunity to interested and qualified buyers. n Negotiation and letter of intent. Once an interested and qualified potential buyer is found, the negotiation phase of the sale begins. A buyer will typically present a non-binding letter of intent defining the major points of the purchase. n Purchase agreement. The process of arriving at a negotiated and agreed-upon purchase and sale agreement (PSA) constitutes a critical stage of the transaction. The PSA

will detail the terms of the sale, including not only price, but also exclusions, inclusions, legal ramifications, purchase structures, warranties and more. Buyers and sellers often engage lawyers to help prepare these documents. n Due diligence. The amount of due diligence requested by a buyer depends on the type and size of the transaction.

Typical items often include balance sheets, equipment lists, facility tours, profit and loss statements, specialized financial reports and tax returns. n Closing. At closing, all paperwork is executed and funds delivered. Typical closings occur at an lawyer’s office, title company or other mutually agreed upon location. At this stage, the parties will execute all applicable documents, including bills of sale, loan documents, operating agreements and promissory notes. n Post closing. Depending on the business and negotiations, the seller could be required to assist at some level in the transition of ownership. This could range from being available for a short period to answer questions to working under an employment contract for a number of years.

COVID-19 illness rates have decreased steadily in Mesa County over the past month.

An average of 62 cases a day are reported over a seven-day period. That contrasts with an average of more than 350 cases a day in January and the peak of the wave of the omicron variant.

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and the Colorado School of Public Health shared more statistics suggesting COVID-19 illness rates are falling across the state.

Stefany The latest modeling reports indicates Busch 91 percent of Coloradans are immune to omicron infection and severe illness.

As the situation improves, people once again face changes in their work and personal lives.

Masking recommendations have become more flexible on a nationwide level with new guidance from

the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. People who’ve received all recommended COVID-19 vaccines, including boosters, should still wear a mask indoors when in high transmission areas.

For those in areas of medium or low transmission, wearing a mask is no longer recommended except for those with high risk for server illness.

Residents can check their county’s transmission status on the CDC website.

The drop in illness rates and changes in masking guidance comes as we approach March 14, 2022, marking two years since COVID-19 was identified in our community.

The past two years have been difficult for everyone — from those losing jobs to those losing loved ones.

While we recognize our COVID-19 situation is improving, we know some could experience anxiety about returning to more normal circumstances.

Here are some tips for easing your anxiety as we make the shift: n Go at your own pace. Ease back into socializing and

attending gatherings in larger groups if that’s something you’ve been avoiding. If you’re not ready to remove your mask in group settings, it’s OK to leave it on. n Get your information from the right sources.

There’s a lot of conflicting information out there about COVID-19. Stick to trusted sources like the Mesa County Public Health website and social media pages and CDC. n Voice your feelings. If you feel nervous about returning to normal after a two-year pandemic, odds are, someone else is right there with you.

Illness levels are down, and we’re all ready to move ahead and tackle what’s next. Let’s support one another as we continue to work together for a healthy community.

This column was provided by the Bray Business Advisors Group, a team of experienced brokers and staff serving businesses in Western Colorado. The team is supported by a knowledgeable commercial real estate division as well as accounting, closing, information technology, marketing and title specialists. For more information, visit www.braybusinessadvisorsgroup.com or call 263-2955.

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As COVID situation improves, some tips on easing anxiety

Stefany Busch is communications coordinator at Mesa County Public Health. Connect with Mesa County Public Health on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ MesaCountyPublicHealth or on Twitter @MC_PublicHealth.

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Contributors Opinion Bold predictions bored for 2015 Our apparently board A new yearpromote affords needs Business Briefs Incentives more like repeats to not-so-bold stick to education a new opportunity expansive efforts Business People Almanac to meet local needs THE he B BUSINESS usiness T T Times IMES

PPAGE age 26 22

There are those who question the effectiveness of incentives in promoting economic development — in particular in attracting businesses to an area.

A receipient stays long enough to take advantage of the incentives, then moves on to another to obtain even moreanincentives, oneforargument goes.and A newlocation year almost always brings opportunity a fresh start It’s aambition specious to contention. renewed do thingsThere better.are exceptions. But most businesses don’t engage in the kindthat of activities that are more like children going door to door on In business, usually boils down to providing customers better products Halloween in the eager pursuit of bigger bags of candy.

For one thing, incentives and services faster and at lower cost than competitors. Part of the process must constitute only onetofactor that goes into the calculation where need to locate business include listening customers to determine what they of actually andathen — and not theneed. mostAfter important For another relocating meeting that all, itfactor. does little good tothing, offer the the costs latestofand greatest if operations and employees present obstacles nobody actually wants what you’re selling. to frequent moves.

What about incentives for an existing business Just like the businesses that belong to the group,expanding the Grandoperations?

Junction Area They can be even more beneficial because existing account forof Chamber of Commerce invariably starts out the new yearbusinesses with a reassessment more of the job that’s one goaland of incentives.

Thematch U.S. Small Business the services andgrowth resources it provides how well they with members Administration estimates existing businesses about percent of net needs. Jeff Franklin, the new chairman of the account chamberfor board of 60 directors, new jobs in this the private sector. personifies approach in describing what he considers his role for the coming Now, what about incentives fortheir an existing business withthose a large workIt’s force year: listen to members, determine needs and then meet needs. a that brings dollars into the economy? role with which Franklin is familiar as market president of Bank of Colorado.

That’s the kind ideal Steve Jozefczyk talks in praising The process willoftake onsituation a more structured approach in about what the chamberthe package of state and local latest expansion at West Star plans as the resumption of incentives a program supporting aptly calledthe Listening to Business.

Under the Aviation in Grand Junction.

As deputy director of the Grand Junction Economic program, business owners participate in in-depth interviews to identify barriers to Partnership, Jozefczyk was they involved in efforts to secure the incentives. growth and other problems encounter.

The Colorado Economic Development The new year offers a good time to joinCommission the proverbialapproved club. a total of $1.7 As million incentives the $16 Thatthe includes jobTimes? growth an advertiser or for reader, whatmillion do youproject. need from Business incentive credits journals that willtraditionally be paid out over eight West Star adds Whiletax business gather andyears reportasthe relevant newsstaff to as well additional incentives from the state strategic fund.

GJEP and Industrial readers, communication isn’t necessarily a one-way street. That’s especially true as Developments Inc. inmake Grandthe Junction will payconvenient a total of $246,000 Web sites and e-mail dialogue more than ever.to match money fromGood the strategic fund.don’t exist in a vacuum. They respond to the needs of publications The combination incentives is what’s unusual, Jozefczyk said, but reflects the advertisers and readers.ofThey provide needed. role So of West in the Mesa County economy. With a staff of more than 500, the what Star do you need? company ranks among news the largest private the county.

Along with Is there additional coverage thatemployers would helpinkeep you informed abouta 40,000-square-foot hangar and 32,000 square feet of additional shop and office local business developments? Are there features that would be interesting or space, Staradvice expects to would add 110 moreyour employees to itseasier? payroll. useful?West Is there that make jobs a little There are good reasons at With the Grand Junction It’s equally important to the askWest whatStar you operation don’t need. limited time to Regional Airport is already one of the largest for the company.

But produce content and limited space in which to publish it, would timewith and space be operations in seven states, West better devoted to something else?Star could have expanded facilities elsewhere.

The What’s incentives made an easy that much easier. good?

What isn’t?decision What’s needed?

What isn’t?

The Grand Valley attractive location in which do business —Web not Let us know.

Send offers us an an e-mail.

Comment online on thetoBusiness Times the of which involves the scenic salubrious climate and outdoor site least at www.thebusinesstimes.com.

Yousetting, could even write an old-fashioned letter to recreational opportunities. not toboth mention a growing educational institution the editor if you’d like. YourThat’s feedback, positive and negative, is valued and in Colorado Mesa University.

Incentives add to the inducements — the tax credits will be carefully considered. offered through the Rural Start of program, Good publications areJump the result not onlyfor theexample. efforts of their staffs, but also But it’s altogether fitting and proper incentives also are available to help the collaborative efforts involving advertisers and readers. businesses thatother are already here to stay here,toexpand their Like any good business, we want listen to ouroperations customers,and findprovide out more jobs. what they need and then meet those needs.

Without that’s when incentives It’s a newquestion, year. Please help us to do so. can be especially effective.

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THE BUSINESS TIMES

609 North Ave., Suite 2, Grand Junction, CO 81501 TEL (970) 424-5133 • FAX (970) 424-5134

Publisher/Owner: Craig R. Hall

Editor: Phil Castle

Reach advertising at: publisher@thebusinesstimes.com Reach the editor at: phil@thebusinesstimes.com.

Subscribe or submit press releases online at www.thebusinesstimes.com The Grand Valley Business Times, a subsidiary of Hall Media Group LLC, is published twice monthly and distributed throughout Grand Junction, Fruita and Palisade. Advertising rates and deadlines are available upon request. Opinions expressed in this publication are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, editor, staff or advertisers.

Copyright © 2015 — AllCopyright rights reserved. © 2022 — All rights reserved.

If our school board election taught It’s thatlast time of year when us one thingand — on either side of theabound. political resolutions prognostications spectrum — there are myriad problems My favorite saying applied to New Year’s within MesaisCounty School District 51. a resolutions in saying they’re basically While it’s bunch of promises to break the first week obvious each sidewhile has I won’t predict a of January.

And its peculiar whole lot, I sets can of pretty much accurately concerns won’t nail a fewand things that without question agree how the things will make news. You will see these are should be done to pretty, well, predictable: alleviate and eliminate ■ Prediction one: (politically) There will bethose some problems, I hope sort of weather event, we can disaster all agreeorthe natural board doesn’t need heinous occurrence Craig Hall to go looking for, where someone will or creating more, be interviewed and say problems for the district. the following: “I’ve here we are. neverYet, seen anything It’s in nomy secret I supported the three like that candidates who lifetime.” It’s as were if thisrecently elected to the Craig Hall board of education. no secret board person is a requiredIt’s also members presented attendee atwere every news with myriad concerns in addressing the direction reporting just event.

While I understand most promised in their campaigns — beginning people’s perspective can indeed be limited day one of their service. by, or contained within, And their it’s ownbecome personal public knowledge from meeting attendance experiences, it is too much to ask to there aresome thosehistorical who support the new before consult perspective direction of the boardYes, and this those who don’t saying such a thing? response can when to educational, operational apply ittocomes some events.

But when it comes and personnel to weather anddecisions. natural disasters, I’m pretty This could be ahistory columnrepeating lamentingitself. or sure this is simply attacking those themillions new of Same as it has in foropposition millions to and board’s actions.

It would be fish-in-a-barrel years. More important, theaplanet made it! type festivity, especially I’veHow’s railed Whatofdidn’t were certain since species. on these same folks in every walk of life that for perspective? outside of education.

YetWhen today,itI comes find myself ■ Prediction two: to a on the or opposing side that of the boardbetween given a few crime something occurs recent announcements. humans, the other required attendee at all up is D51’s expansion newsFirst reporting eventscontinued is the person who into health care.

Regardless of your says this: “They we’re just the nicest feelings on the successes about people, and in no way didorI concerns see something the Marillac Exactly. runs inside likeclinic this coming.”

NoCentral one does High School, onewhen thing itmust come most of the time comes to to the forefront: decisions involving neighbors Medical and acquaintances.

People should minors shouldatbe up to their period. be surprised what goes onparents, from time to Itime realize we have too many kids withand little in their neighborhoods, towns to nopeople parentalthey involvement and they need with know because people are agood. safety netfor forthe things thatthat happen their And times they in shouldn’t lives medically.

You’d bepoliticians, surprised torepeat know be shocked — like with Ioffenders believe aand government-private solution terrorists — where’s the should be that desirable them.

But with all interview says, for “This doesn’t surprise things government, me in the least.” it should be limited in government involvement.

■ Prediction three: Something good Let’s beeconomically, honest. Government will happen and thehas and always will continue makefor a disaster government will taketocredit it. The of most our health care system.

There’swhere no reason to recent example is gas prices, people believe would fare credit much better in a school ask me itwhy I won’t the president for setting in spite ofanswer some successes low gas—prices.

My is simple:noted in the last board meeting.

I have believe Government never makes thetoprice of there are just as many, if not more, concerns something go down and simply takes about credit the at Central. no one’s running for clinic good news.

Gas But pricing is subject to a public relations campaign more many global factors.

Nowfor there areclinics by putting thoseanswers into the public realm. And when government to addressing some of kids are making decisions outside of parent’s them to keep prices stable for Americans, purview — medical or those but our government hasotherwise none of — them in problem areas place. The onlyalways thingsexist. it has in place in the

March 15-28, 10-23, 2015 2022 JANUARY

a great in the long We runhave always hurtorganization consumers. Another Marillac Clinic, one I support wholeheartedly. fact is that unemployment reaches a certain And applaud in clinics levelIbased onits theefforts economy.

And designed while the to help those might most inbrag need. schools government theBut number is aren’t low, the place to dothe this. it’s proper more than likely government did It’s high remove non-profit something totime causetothat number being low and not-for-profit statuses the health — and not in a good way.across Conversely, when care industry. happythe folks, business picksFor up,you it’stax because people there’s TRILLIONS of dollars tax in who need to buy widgets whotowere not that arena.

For you tax writeoff folks, it was buying widgets because the economy offers a better solution.

Let (or anyunnatural, medical contracting due to natural professional entity reasons, write off decided every penny government or caused) we itbetter donates voluntary clinics and in its buytosome widgets.

The— government facilities — that help those had nothing to do with this.in need or who the government requires they treat. Just ■ Prediction four: In keeping withthink of the tax for medical things thesavings government does, Iprofessionals predict the who volunteer once a month atthe a clinic. government will manipulate numbers to Think of the tax savings for a large entity if it make the claim the economy is getting could off everything better write because of how hardfrom it issurgeries working to to medications Band-Aids.

Think youNow might help all of usto“working Americans.” see clinic say, or two pop up? these youamight “Craig, youThink always say folks this couldn’t find a way to basically have zero about President Obama because youadon’t tax through this system?

ThinkIthis won’t likebill him.”

You’re right in a sense. don’t get government out what of health care?of him and know the man, but I know Here’s another is looking into his thinking, I don’tarena like itD51 or him one iota. which has destroyed: real Beforethe yougovernment go off, however, I didn’t like estate.

Yup.Bush As ifand renthis control, public housing, President bailouts, stimulus mortgages, property taxes andmarket just about and his abandoning the free to save everything that goes “owning” home the free market.

Andinto I don’t know ahim doesn’t have athe long history of does, government either. What government and the screwing every 51 is only thingupitatcan do, level, is hurtDistrict the economy. looking at ways to benefit folks in education Unless it does nothing or put criminals in with specialof pricing for homes, limitednothing jail instead partnering with them, increases in homedoes values keepAlways them look the government willtohelp. affordable andwhatever other incentives and subsidies at it this way, the government says to attract thewhatever best teachers for our it is doing, the name ofkids. the law it I don’torknow aboutthe you, but or mygoal bestof is passing, whatever name customers aren’titthe ones looking for a the bureaucracy is presenting to the deal, butexpect ratherthe thepolar best value.

Sometimes people, opposite to occur. that value is what in theI’m product, notis the I guess saying thatmoney spent.

In it’s thistime case,toD51 is a of victim of both. perhaps get out our own Its product isn’t greatplenty and it of (admittedly) perspective.

There’s history underpays staff —research unless you’re in a to books and its historical out there certain or have special position. begin tobuilding understand thataall of this has You don’t need a Harvard degree to happened before.

And it will again, understand since time immemorial teachers whether the topic is people or government. haveThe beenbest underappreciated andisunderpaid. recommendation to find Isome say this as someone who grewGoogle up in a books or try that whole home twoateachers — one whoon served thing. with There’s lot of information the on a board of education.

Like istheit warning Great Depression.

The truth wasn’t on a pack of cigarettes saying they’re got even a good one until the government bad for you, salaryalso levels are aofknown involved.

There’s plenty research warning for thosewarm who teach. on the medieval periodWouldn’t when thethe simple solution bewarmer finding than a waytoday to pay planet was much with them more?

The people district (and couldwarmer begin bywell a whole lot less cutting the cost the new high school before man wasofhere at all).

And yep, and eliminating — and other perhaps even a people haveclinics been killing surprised few administrative positions. people since history was first written.

Like allsome too many we elect, making Maybe research will help stop one’s mark by taking one’s mission all of these trends. Otherwise, we’ll into be realms outsidenever its focus over.like Thus saying we’ve seentakes anything it in far, D51 board seems no exception. our the lives.

And not in a good way.

Craig Craig Hall Hall is is owner owner and and publisher publisher of of the the Business Times.

Reach him at 424-5133 Business Times. Reach him at 424-5133 or or publisher@thebusinesstimes.com. publisher@thebusinesstimes.com.

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March 10-23, 2022

The Business Times

Page 27

Fates of famous authors If welfare pays more than work, confirm healthy worries: “help wanted” a sign of trouble Mene Ukueberuwa, Writing a hazardous task author of “Men Without

Add to death and taxes another certainty in this world. At least in my world.

Writing is difficult.

Case in point: An impending deadline hangs over my head like the blade of a guillotine, yet I’m struggling once again to assemble enough cogent words for a column. I always aim for profundity. Then settle for mediocrity.

I’m reminded of one of my favorite “Pearls Before Swine” comic strips by Stephan Pastis. The first panel features two of his characters talking. “Where were you last weekend?” one asks. “I went to a writers retreat,” the other answers.

The next panel shows four writers sprinting away, the pages of what are presumably their works flying behind. One writer screams. “Run. Run. Writing’s too hard.” Exactly.

Phil Castle Writing for a business journal presents an added challenge because the work’s never really done. You no sooner finish one issue than another barrels along as inexorably as dawn follows dark. I sometimes feel like Sisyphus, that mythical Greek guy condemned to forever roll a boulder up a hill only to have the big rock come tumbling down every time he nears the top.

As if any additional consternation were required, there’s evidence writing is not only difficult, but also dangerous. Deadly even. I suspect one thing has everything to do with the other.

Clearly, I’m not too bashful to complain to anyone willing to listen — or read, for that matter — I’ve long suffered for my art. Of course, that depends on the definition of suffering. And especially, I suppose, on the definition of art.

I’ve stared at a blank computer screen unable to contrive even a single coherent sentence until my eyes burned in their sockets. I’ve smacked my forehead over stupid mistakes so often I’ve risked concussion. Worst of all, I’ve reviewed my copy with sufficient disgust to make nausea a chronic affliction and Pepto-Bismol a staple.

Still, I didn’t worry until recently writing could be a dangerous occupation.

Not dangerous as in bomb technician, lion tamer or chainsaw juggler dangerous.

But potentially hazardous to your health. Enough so maybe word processing software should come with a surgeon general’s warning.

I came to this conclusion after reading a post by Emily Temple, managing editor at Literary Hub. She recounted with no small measure of gallows humor some of the famous fates that awaited famous authors as a result of their writing.

George Orwell, author of “Animal Farm” and “1984,” compared writing a novel to “a long bout of some painful illness.” Sure enough, Orwell grew increasingly sick as he wrote, coughing up blood and losing weight. He ultimately succumbed to tuberculosis.

Ayn Rand turned to amphetamines to help her meet deadlines. There’s an idea. But drugs left her emotional and paranoid. By the time she completed the manuscript for “The Fountainhead,” she was closing in on a nervous breakdown.

Then there’s my personal favorite — French novelist Honoré de Balzac.

He ate coffee grounds on an empty stomach to stimulate his writing. Now, I love my coffee. But coffee grounds? Balzac reportedly died of caffeine poisoning.

Just try not to think about that the next time you gulp down your fourth cup of the day.

Cautionary tales of this sort give rise to an important question: Why write?

If it’s really so difficult and so bad for you, then why write? In my experience, it doesn’t get you girls. It certainly doesn’t make you rich.

But here’s the paradox of writing: There’s nothing else I’ve encountered that’s half as rewarding.

The delight that arises from a well-turned phrase and, ultimately, the immense satisfaction that comes from a good story well told more than make up for the hours of frustration, doubt and even loathing.

Yet another famous writer — Ray Bradbury — put it in other and far better words: “Writing is not a serious business. It’s a joy and a celebration. You should be having fun at it.”

Writing for a business journal is doubly fun because of what I write about.

And that’s frequently remarkable entrepreneurs and business owners and their equally remarkable ventures. In truth, business success stories can be more compelling than fiction. You really can’t make that stuff up.

Is writing difficult? Unquestionably. Can it be dangerous? Apparently so.

But is writing also rewarding and even fun? I’d answer yes.

With certainty.

Phil Castle is editor of the Business Times. Reach him at 424-5133 or phil@thebusinesstimes.com.

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An unprecedented number of “help wanted” signs appear in every town and city across America and even on billboards along the interstate highways.

Flights are cancelled because there are insufficient flight crews to operate the planes. Supplies are limited at retail outlets due to a lack of manpower to work docks, drive trucks and unload merchandise.

Restaurants and Phyllis retailers have reduced Hunsinger hours. There simply aren’t enough employees to fill positions essential to a viable economy.

What’s behind the scarcity of workers?

In their November 2021 article titled “How the New Era of Expanded Welfare Programs is Keeping Americans from Working,” Hayden Dubois and Jonathan Ingram summarized part of the problem: Welfare pays better than work for millions of Americans.

Using the COVID-19 pandemic as an excuse, federal policymakers launched new welfare initiatives and expanded existing ones. These programs provide regular, recurring payments that discourage work for millions. When these programs are combined with existing welfare programs, the benefits are more lucrative than work. To compound the problem, the child tax credit previously offered to working family was modified to direct payments to families without the work requirement. Food stamps are available to able-bodied adults without dependents, further increasing government dependency.

The fallacy behind the so-called poverty rate is monetary benefits from government welfare programs aren’t included in calculating income. This explains why, after spending billions on welfare, the poverty rate remains virtually unchanged. Keeping poverty rates high helps big government proponents declare capitalism doesn’t work.

The U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) conducts monthly surveys asking Americans about their habits. Based on their responses, the BLS places them in one of three categories: employed, unemployed and not in the labor force. The BLS describes the labor force as those who hold a job or are actively seeking a job. The unemployment rate is calculated by dividing the number of unemployed by the labor

Work,” said the trend toward idleness has been years in the making.

Ukueberuwa said the United States is now home to an army of jobless men — more than 7 million between the ages of 25 and 55.

This number has grown substantially since the enactment of COVID-19 relief government stimulus programs.

force and multiplying this number by 100.

Mene Ukueberuwa, author of “Men Without Work,” said the trend toward idleness has been years in the making.

Ukueberuwa said the United States is now home to an army of jobless men — more than 7 million between the ages of 25 and 55. This number has grown substantially since the enactment of COVID-19 relief government stimulus programs.

This trajectory of idleness is detrimental to individuals and society.

In January 2022, Robert Rector, senior research fellow for domestic policy studies at the Heritage Foundation, said, “When you eliminate work, the societal contract is violated. Those who choose to work will have a double obligation to support themselves and their families and the families of those who choose not to work.

Society will fall apart under that, and there’s no way of stopping it.”

Welfare policies must change, or the “help wanted” signs will signal the demise of the republic.

Phyllis Hunsinger is founder of the Freedom & Responsibility Education Enterprise Foundation in Grand Junction.

The FREE Foundation provides resources to students and teachers in Western Colorado to promote the understanding of economics, financial literacy and free enterprise. A former teacher, principal and superintendent, Hunsinger wrote “Down and Dirty: A ‘How To’ Math Book.” For more informtion, log on to www.free-dom.us.com. Contact Hunsinger at phyllis@free-dom.us.com.

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SHARE YOUR VIEWS The Business Times welcomes letters to the editor and guest columns on issues affecting businesses in Western Colorado. Submissions should be emailed to phil@thebusinesstimes.com and include names and telephone numbers for verification.

Page 28

Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac

n COMMUNITY HOSPITAL ACQUIRES ROBOTIC SURGICAL SYSTEM

Community Hospital in Grand Junction has acquired a da Vinci Xi robotic surgical system for use in minimally invasive procedures.

“We are thrilled to offer robotic surgery at Community Hospital and look forward to continuing to bring the Grand Valley and surrounding areas advanced minimally invasive surgical treatment options,” said Joe Gerardi, chief operating officer and nursing officer.

Surgeons control the system, which Joe Gerardi translates hand movements into the smaller, more precise movements of tiny instruments inside patients’ bodies. The system can be used for general surgery as well as procedures in the areas of gynecology, oncology and urology.

The Xi System expands on core da Vinci System features, including wristed instruments, intuitive motion and an ergonomic design. The Xi System also provides surgeons with magnified views, virtually extending their hands and eyes into patients.

Overhead instrument arms are designed to accommodate anatomical access from any position. Smaller, thinner arms with newly designed joints offer a greater range of motion. A simpler and more compact endoscope design offers improved visual clarity and the ability to attach the endoscope to any arm, providing flexibility for seeing the surgical site.

For more information about Community Hospital, visit the website at https://YourCommunityHospital.com. n REALTOR GROUP ESTABLISHES SCHOLARSHIP IN MEMORY OF GRAND JUNCTION EXECUTIVE The Colorado Association of Realtors has established a scholarship program in memory of Pat Teck, the former executive director of the Grand Junction Area Realtor Association.

The Pat Teck AE Institute scholarship will assist Realtor association executives attend the National Association of Realtors Association Executive Institute.

Before her death in 2020, Teck served 24 years as executive director of the Grand Junction Area Realtor Association. Her career with the Realtor board spanned more than 40 years. She was selected three times as the representative of association executives to the Colorado Association of Realtors executive committee. n ROTARY CLUB DONATES $6,000 IN PROCEEDS FROM GRAND VALLEY ALE TRAIL PROGRAM The Horizon Sunrise Rotary Club donated $2,000 each to the Center for Children, Meals on Wheels and Roice-Hurst Humane Society, proceeds from the Grand Valley Ale Trail fund-raising program offering deals from breweries, restaurants and wineries.

The free Grand Valley Ale Trail app is available from Apple or Google stores. For $20, users receive electronic coupons good at each location along the trail. Proceeds go to local charities.

Participating businesses include: Ale House, Carboy Winery, Colorado Vintner’s Collection, Cooper Club Brewing, Edgwater Brewery, Handlebar Tap House, Kannah Creek Brewing, Monumental Beer Works, Octillo Restaurant + Bar, Palisade Brewing, Peach Street Distillers, Ramblebine Brewing, Rockslide Brewery, Scotland Yard Cigar & Spirits and Suds Brothers Brewery.

For more information, visit www.donortrail.com/gvat.

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The Business Times welcomes submissions for free publication in Business Briefs. Email items to phil@thebusinesstimes.com or submit a news release online at www.thebusinesstimes.com.

n THIRD FREDDY’S OPENS IN GRAND VALLEY WITH NEW RESTAURANT IN CLIFTON A third Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers restaurant has opened in the Grand Valley.

The newest operation is located at 3232 Interstate 70 Business Loop in Clifton.

“We look forward to serving guests in Clifton with the same friendly service and great taste that they’ve come to love at our Freddy’s restaurants in Grand Junction,” said David Giesen, franchise owner.

The 2,631-square-foot restaurant can seat up to 80 guests with additional seating available on a patio. Drive-through service also is available. Hours of operation run from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Giesen also owns Freddy’s locations at 737 Horizon Drive and 2489 U.S. Highway 6 &50.

“We’re excited to bring the community a third area location, and we feel like Clifton is a great fit for our concept,” Giesen said. “The family friendly atmosphere of our restaurants make us a great place for guests looking to celebrate a birthday or get together after a game. Our team will do everything they can to ensure you enjoy your experience at Freddy’s.”

In addition to frozen custard and cooked-to-order steakburgers, Freddy’s serves shoestring fries, beef hot dogs and other fare.

Founded in Kansas in 2002, the franchise has grown to a total of more than 400 locations in 34 states. For more information, visit https://freddysusa.com. n VETERINARY PRACTICES JOIN IN EFFORT TO OFFER DISCOUNTED STERILIZATIONS Grand Valley veterinary practices have joined with Mesa County Animal Services to offer spay or neuter procedures at a reduced price.

The Animal Assistance Foundation has provided funding for pet sterilization procedures. Participating veterinary practices have agreed to offer those procedures at a reduced rate, resulting in a fee of $25 to pet owners.

Participating practices have been issued a limited number of vouchers for 2022. Vouchers are offered at the discretion of veterinarians and are valid through Sept. 30. Pet owners could be asked to support they have financial needs or communicate why they face unique circumstances to receive vouchers.

Pet owners are required to provide proof of rabies vaccinations for their pets to use the vouchers. The cost of vaccinations isn’t covered by the vouchers.

The participating veterinary practices are: All Pets Center, Animal Birth Control, Arrowhead Veterinary Hospital, CLAWS (cats only), Cottonwood Veterinary Hospital, Footprints Animal Hospital, Grand View Animal Hospital, Monument View Veterinary Hospital, Orchard Mesa Veterinary Hospital, Redlands Pet Clinic and VCA Tiara Rado Animal Hospital.

See BRIEFS page 29

March 10-23, 2022

NOTEWORTHY

St. Mary’s Medical Center in Grand Junction has earned recognition for nursing and patient care.

St. Mary’s received Magnet recognition through a program administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

“Earning Michelle Shiao Magnet recognition is an honor that reaffirms St. Mary’s culture that values the integral role that nurses play in caring for our community every day,” said Michelle Shiao, chief nursing officer Bryan Johnson and vice president of patient care services. “This process was both rigorous and thorough for all involved — from the bedside nurse clinicians to the department leaders, executive team and members of the board of directors.”

Bryan Johnson, president of St. Mary’s, said the entire team can be proud of the recognition.

“Magnet designation is an impressive and important distinction for our organization and associates as well as the communities we serve.’’

To achieve Magnet accreditation, St. Mary’s participated in a process over several years that required participation from every discipline and across every level of the organization. The process included an electronic application, written patient care documentation and a virtual site visit and review by the Commission on Magnet Recognition.

St. Mary’s received additional recognition in the form of five Magnet Exemplar accolades. Magnet Exemplars are stories that highlight excellence in nursing practice with positive outcomes.

Briefs

Continued from page 28 n PINNACOL ASSURANCE CONTRIBUTES $1.5 MILLION TO GROUPS AND INDIVIDUALS Pinnacol Assurance contributed a total of more than $1.5 million and 1,150 volunteer hours to organizations and individuals in Colorado in 2021, the workers’ compensation insurer announced.

“At Pinnacol, caring is part of our company culture,” said Edie Sonn, vice president of communications and public affairs. “For us, it’s a natural extension Edie Sonn of our business to invest in the local communities where we work and live. We’re grateful to all the Pinnacol employees who volunteered, donated, organized and supported our efforts to care for Colorado in 2021.”

Pinnacol contributed $507,000 to programs promoting employee health and safety, economic vitality and work force development. Pinnacol also donated $100,000 to fund set up to help victims of the Marshall Fire in Boulder County.

The Pinnacol Foundation awarded a total of $347,150 in college scholarships to 75 students across Colorado for the 2021-2022 academic year. The program provides scholarships to students whose parents have been killed or injured in work-related accidents.

Employees involved in the Pinnacol in Action program volunteered a ttoal of 1,150 hours. Pinnacol matched $137,634 in money donated by employees to nonprofits for a total contribution of $272,528.

For more information about Pinnacol Assurance, visit the website at www.pinnacol.com.

The Business Times

Page 29

n SMOKIN’ OAK WOOD-FIRED PIZZA PLANS PI DAY FUND-RAISING EVENT

n STAFFING COMPANY ANNOUNCES RECORD-BREAKING SALES IN 2021

The Smokin’ Oak Wood-Fired Pizza restaurant in Grand Junction will join in fund-raising event planned as part of Pi Day on March 14.

Smokin’ Oak will sell wood-fired pizzas for $3.14 to guests who donate either $1 or a canned food item to a charity with which local franchisees will partner.

In Grand Junction, the Smokin’ Oak restaurant is located at 2478 U.S. Hightway 6 And 50. The franchisee will support Steppin’ It Up, a nonprofit program providing life skills training to people with disabilities.

Pi Day is an annual celebration of the mathematical constant pi. Pi Day is observed on March 14 since three, one and four are the first three significant digits of pi.

Based in Florida, Smokin’ Oak Wood-Fired Pizza opened its first franchise location in Iowa in 2017. For more information about Smokin’ Oak Wood-Fired Pizza, visit https://smokinoakpizza.com.

Express Employment Professionals, a staffing company whose operations include locations in Grand Junction and Montrose, announced record-breaking sales of $4.16 billion in 2021.

The company also employed 586,000 people last year.

Express Employment Professionals has a total of more than 850 franchises in the United States and four other countries.

Nina Anderson operates a franchise with offices at 725 Pitkin Ave. in Grand Junction and 525 E. Main St. in Montrose. For more information, call 242-4500 in Grand Junction or 249-5202 in Montrose or visit https:// www.expresspros.com/grandjunctionco or https://www. expresspros.com/montroseco.

n HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION PLANS ANNUAL HOME AND GARDEN EXPO

The Orchard Mesa Lions Club will sponsor a youth speech contest.

The contest is open to any student of high school age and will include local-, district- and state-level competitions. Winners will receive cash prizes.

Entrants must submit by March 14 a manuscript or annotated outline of their speeches based on the topic “Your passion becomes your legacy when you serve others ...

Why is community service important?”

The local contest is scheduled for the Orchard Mesa Lions Club meeting on March 21.

For more information about the contest, send an email to Kathy at Turkeytrots2@gmail.com.

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The Home Builders Association of Western Colorado has scheduled its spring show.

The Western Colorado Home & Garden Expo is set for April 30 and May 1 at the Mesa County Fairgrounds, 2785 U.S. Highway 50 in Grand Junction.

The show will include indoor and outdoor home and garden interactive exhibitors, demonstration, food trucks and a VIP opening event.

Exhibitors and sponsors are sought for the show. For more information, contact Megan at 245-0253 or send an email to office@hbawesternco.com.

n ORCHARD MESA LIONS CLUB TO HOST YOUTH SPEECH CONTEST

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BusinessBriefs Briefs Business BusinessPeople People Almanac Business Almanac

n GRAND JUNCTION-BASED FIRM AWARDS ITS TOP AGENTS FOR 2021

Agents with Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties and Coldwell Banker Prime Properties based in Grand Junction received awards for their performance in 2021.

“It’s incredible to witness what our agents have accomplished, said Ryan Brown, president of Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties and Ryan Brown Coldwell Banker Prime Properties.

“I am honored to work with this group and their dedicaton to their clients and their communities.”

Annette Hejl was recognized as salesperson of the year at Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties for the highest gross commission income.

Amy Ashcraft was named rookie of the year for the agent with the highest gross commission income during the first year with the company.

The Shafter Team received the top team of the award.

Kenzie Ross received the distinctive angel award recognizing an agent who benefits the community through volunteer efforts and acts of kindness.

Mike Foster was recognized as salesperson of the year at Coldwell Banker Prime Properties. The Posner Schuette Commercial Group won the top team of the year award.

Kelsay Heath received the distinctive angel award.

Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties operates offices in Colorado as well as Idaho, Missouri and Montana. The operation ranks among the fastest-growing real estate and privately owned companies in the United States. For more, visit www.cbdistinctive.com. Coldwell Banker Prime Properties serves the Grand Valley and Western Colorado and ranks as the top Coldwell Banker office in Colorado.

For more, visit www.cbc-prime.com. n GRAND JUNCTON MEN APPOINTED TO STATE APPRENTICESHIP GROUPS Shane Haas, president of FCI Constructors based in Grand Junction, and Curtis Englehart, director of the Mesa County Workforce, are among the appointees to two groups within a state apprenticeship agency.

Haas was appointed to the state apprenticeship council. The 10-member council advises the state Shane Haas apprenticeship council on registered apprenticeships for the building and construction trades.

Englehart was appointed to the interagency advisory committee on apprenticeship. The committee advises the agency on registered apprenticeships for all other industries. The committee has eight voting members, including representatives from industries with high-demand jobs, and seven non-voting Curtis Engelhart members.

The Business Times

SHARE YOUR NEWS The Business Times welcomes submissions for free publication in Business People and the Almanac calendar of events. Email submissions to phil@thebusinesstimes.com or submit a news release online at www.thebusinesstimes.com. n REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL LAUNCHES BUSINESS AND ACQUIRES PARTNER Jessica Meyer has launched a real estate firm in Grand Junction and found a business partner in Kara Riddle.

Jessica Meyer PropertiesRE/MAX 4000 provides real estate services as well as professional organization and interior design services.

Meyer brings to the venture Jessica Meyer experience in real estate and property management. She’s also a certified professional organizer.

Riddle brings her experience in real estate, sales and marketing.

She holds a bachelor’s of business administration degree from Colorado Mesa University.

Meyer said she’s committed to providing a high level of service and Kara Riddle responsiveness to her clients along with her work ethic. Riddle said she’s excited to join the business.

For additional information, call 314-4612 or log on to www.jessicameyerproperties.com. n TIMBERLINE BANK ANNOUNCES ADDITION OF CHIEF CREDIT OFFICER Aaron Miller has joined Timberline Bank as chief credit officer of the Grand Junction-based operation.

Miller brings to his duties 22 years of experience in the financial industry in lending and branch management, including work with a larger financial institution. He holds a bachelor’s of business administration degree as Aaron Miller well as credentials from the Graduate School of Banking at Colorado.

“With Timberline’s continued growth and success, stepping into this new role will direct focus on and improve efficiencies throughout the entire loan process,” Miller said.

“We are happy to add Aaron’s experience and knowledge to our team to help take us to the next level of banking,” said Jim Pedersen, co-chief executive officer.

In addition to Grand Junction, Timberline Bank operates locations in Montrose and Aspen. For more information, call 683-5560 or visit www.timberlinebank.com.

See PEOPLE page 31

March 10-23, 2022

March 10 n Bookkeeping boot camp, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Business Incubator Center, 2591 Legacy Way, Grand Junction. Admission $75, which includes lunch. https://gjincubator.org or 243-5242 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m., Visit Fruita Airbnb property, 503 E. Aspen Ave. Admission $5 for chamber members, $10 for others. 858-3894 or https://fruitachamber.org March 14 n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce quarterly membership luncheon, noon to 1:30 p.m.

Mesa County Workforce Center, 512 29 1/2 Road.

Admission $20 for chamber members, $25 for others. https://gjchamber.org or 242-3214 March 16 n Western Colorado Human Resource Association monthly member meeting and presentation on change management, 11:30 to 1 p.m., Mesa County Workforce Center. Members attend for no additional charge. www.wchra.org n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce networking at noon, 11:45 a.m., Venue at Fisher’s, 625 24 1/2 Road. Admission $20 for chamber members, $25 for others. https://gjchamber.org or 242-3214 n Free webinar on the basics of Google ads, noon to 1 p.m.. Registration required. 243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org n Palisade Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m., Adrenaline Driven Adventure, 750 1/4 Horizon Drive, Grand Junction. Admission for chamber members $5 in advance and $6 at the door. Admission for others $ in advance and $10 at the door. 464-7458 or https://palisadecoc.com March 18 n Coffee Club networking, 9 to 10 a.m., FWorks, 325 E. Aspen Ave., Fruita. Members of the Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce attend for free. Others pay $5. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 March 22 n Free webinar on virtual vending, noon to 1 p.m..

Registration required. https://gjincubator.org or 243-5242 Upcoming n Club 20 watershed summit, March 24 and 25, Colorado Mesa University, Grand Junction.

Admission ranges from $35 to $225. www.club20.com n Welcome Thursday Friends networking meeting, noon to 1:30 p.m. March 24, Camilla’s Kaffe, 206 E. Aspen Ave., Fruita.https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 n Business startup workshop, 1 to 4:30 p.m.

March 24, Business Incubator Center. Admission $55. 243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org n Free Finance Friday webinar, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

March 25. Registration required. 243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org See ALMANAC page 31

The Business Times

March 10-23, 2022

People

Continued from page 30 n GRAND JUNCTION MAN PENS BOOK ABOUT EISENHOWER A book written by a Grand Junction businessman and former college lecturer offers a guide to negotiation based on the tactics of President Dwight Eisenhower.

Lou Villaire, one of five partners who owns Atlasta Solar Center, wrote “In Good Faith: The Strong Negotiation of President Eistenhower.” The book is available from Amazon.

Villaire helps readers improve the negotiating skills they use every day to get what they want from life — whether landing first jobs or advancing their careers.

Villaire wrote in the preface many books have been written about Eisenhower as a military and politcal leader, but his book examines through a series of stories what many of Eisenhower’s colleagues praised as his ability to negotiate and bring people together.

Villaire is a former lecturer at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction, where he taught courses in government and public policy.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in English and environmental studies from Western Michigan University, master’s degree in environmental policy from the University of Illinois Chicago and doctoral degree in political science from Northern Illinois University.

n GRAND JUNCTION REAL ESTATE BUSINESS HONORS BEST-SELLING AGENT FOR FEBRUARY

n WORKERS’ COMPENSATION INSURER HIRES NEW PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Kathy Tomkins was honored as the top-performing agent in February at Heiden Homes Realty in Grand Junction.

Tomkins posted the highest dollar volume in sales and most closed transactions.

She brings to her duties experience in manufactured home sales and construction. She also operated a heavy equipment company and started a gravel pit.

Heiden Homes Realty operates offices Kathy Tomkins at 735 Rood Ave. For more information, including listings for properties for sale and rent, call 245-7777 or log on to www.heidenhomes.com.

John O’Donnell has joined Pinnacol Assurance as president and chief executive officer of Colorado’s largest workers’ compensation insurer. O’Donnell will succeed Phil Kalin, who plans to retire March 31.

O’Donnell brings to his new position more than 30 years of experience, most recently as executive vice president of Allstate. He also worked at GMAC, Walt Dinsey Co. and John O’Donnell Goldman Sachs.

For more information about Pinnacol Assurance, visit www.Pinnacol.com.

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Almanac

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Continued from page 30 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business annual conference, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 31, Cameo Shooting and Education Complex, 3934 I 9/10 Road, Palisade.Admission $50. Table sponsor $500, which includes eight tickets. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce networking at noon, 11:45 a.m.

April 14, Junct’n Square, 119 N. Seventh St. Admission $20 for chamber members, $25 for others. https://gjchamber.org or 242-3214 n Palisade Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m. April 20, Colorado Vintner’s Collective, 3674 G Road. Admission for chamber members $5 in advance and $6 at the door.

Admission for others $ in advance and $10 at the door. https://palisadecoc.com or 464-7458 n Western Colorado Human Resource Asssociation legislative conference, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 26, Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction and virtually

by Zoom broadcast. Admission ranges from $99 to $349. www.wchra.org n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m. April 26, Western Colorado Community College, 2508 Blichmann Ave. Admission $10 in advance and $12 at the door. https://gjchamber.org or 242-3214 F

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March 10-23, 2022