The Business Times Volume 27 Issue 11

THE BUSINESS T IMES News JUNE 11-24, 2020

VOLUME 27, ISSUE 11

THE DEFINITIVE SOURCE FOR GRAND JUNCTION BUSINESS NEWS SINCE 1994

In this issue n Slowing sales

2

Real estate sales continue to slow in Mesa County as the coronavirus pandemic affects the market and economy.

THEBUSINESSTIMES.COM

Worst to best Trends n Sales at West Slope RV dealer rebound following pandemic limits. See page 2

Contributors Opinion 4 Business Briefs 5 Business People Almanac Humphrey RV owner Paul Roach, left, and general manager Ken Bunge walk past inventory at the Grand Junction location of the West Slope recreational vehicle dealership.

While sales slumped in April in the midst of a pandemic, they rebounded in May.

n Cooler cleaners

A Grand Junction firm makes anodes that curb corrosion in evaporative coolers as well as microorganisms in the water.

n A for safety effort St. Mary’s Medical Center in Grand Junction has once again received an A rating in a patient safety rating report.

n Recovery support

6

An analysis is under way to assess the effects of the pandemic in the Grand Valley and support economic recovery.

n Labor pains

The unemployment rate spiked in Mesa County to 12.6 percent in May, one of the highest levels ever.

n Dining is fine

19 21

Mesa County restaurants have joined in efforts to implement new pandemic guidelines for onsite dining.

n Departments Almanac Business Briefs Business People Contributors News Opinion Trends

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

Business Times photo by Phil Castle

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 67 The Business Times 609 North Ave., Suite 5 Grand Junction, CO 81501

THE BUSINESS T IMES News The Business Times

Page 2

June 11-24, 2020

Real estate slowdown continues

Trends Contributors Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac

Longer-term outlook remains encouraging, local executives say Phil Castle

The Business Times

Real estate sales continue to slow in Mesa County as the coronavirus pandemic affects the market and overall economy.

As a lagging indicator of activity over the previous two months, sales could slow further. But the longer-term outlook remains more encouraging, executives say.

Robert Bray, chief executive officer of Bray Real Estate in Grand Junction, said he’s hopeful what’s typically a seasonal increase in real estate activity has only been pushed back a couple of months. “Spring Robert Bray got moved thanks to COVID.” Annette Miller, senior vice president of Heritage Title Co. in Grand Junction, also said she expects the downward trend in sales to flatten.

But a rebound in Annette Miller activity will depend in part on how quickly businesses reopen and people return to work, Miller said. Even as businesses reopen, she said she’s worried they could face liability issues if there’s a resurgence of COVID-19 cases.

Miller said 347 real estate transactions worth a combined $106 million were reported in Mesa County in May. Compared to the same month last year, transactions dropped 34 percent and total dollar volume declined 27.9 percent.

Three large commercial transactions in Grand Junction valued at a total of nearly $18 million bolstered dollar volume, Miller said: the sale of a medical facility on 25 1/2 Road for $12.5 million, the sale of a cold storage warehouse on Sandhill Lane for $4.1 million and the sale of six townhome units on Flat Top Lane for $1.25 million.

According to numbers tracked by Bray Real Estate, 248 residential real estate transactions worth a total of $68 million were reported in May. Compared to the same month last year, transactions declined 39.8 percent and dollar volume decreased 42.4 percent.

See SLOWDOWN page 16

Ken Bunge, left, general manager of Humphrey RV, and Paul Roach, owner of the Western Colorado dealer, look over the interior of a motorhome for sale. While the coronavirus pandemic limited operations and sales for Humphrey RV in April, Bunge and Roach say May was the best month for unit sales at the company’s Grand Junction location.

From worst to best

Sales at West Slope RV dealer rebound after pandemic restrictions

I

f Ken Bunge and Paul Roach were to plot sales at Humphrey RV for April and May, they say the graph would look a lot like the letter V. With operations restricted in response to the coronavirus pandemic, April was the worst month in a decade for the nearly 20-year-old Western Colorado recreational vehicle dealership.

May, on the other hand, was the best month for unit sales at the company’s Grand Junction location.

Bunge, general manager at Humphrey RV, describes the change in another way: “Business went from 0 to 100 miles per hour.”

Roach, owner of Humphrey RV, attributes the rapid reversal of fortune to an effect of the pandemic of a different sort. People are eager to get out of the homes in which they’ve hunkered down and travel, but want to do so in ways that don’t involve commercial flights or cruise ships. “For a lot of folks, they’re ready to get rid of cabin fever.”

Campers, trailers and other types of recreational vehicles offer a solution, he says.

While the future is anything but assured, Bunge and Roach say they’re confident moving forward.

“We are very optimistic,” Bunge says. “But we have to be cautious.”

Roach says one proverbial silver lining of the pandemic was an opportunity to reorganize departments. “I think we’re going to come out of this pandemic stronger as a result.”

See FIRST page 14

Phase 2 of reopening begins

More businesses have reopened and expanded operations in Mesa County under a second variance from state coronavirus pandemic restrictions.

Mesa County Public Health received approval to proceed with the second phase of guidelines that allow most businesses to reopen and expand operations to up to half capacity.

The next step in the reopening process occurs as the occurrence of positive COVID-19 cases remains low. According to the latest numbers from Mesa County Public Health, 62 cases have been detected. No deaths have been attributed to the disease.

Under the second phase of what’s called the Safer at Home plan, businesses may reopen and expand to up to 50 percent capacity up to a maximum of 175 people in confirmed indoor spaces. Gatherings of up to 50 people are allowed.

Businesses may reopen or expand operations by submitting online applications to Mesa County Public Health. In completing the applications, businesses describe how they’ll implement social distancing, cleaning procedures and other health and safety practices.

See REOPENING page 12

STORIES AND PHOTO BY PHIL CASTLE

June 11-24, 2020

The Business Times

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THE he B BUSINESS usiness T T Times IMES

PPAGE age 4 4

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well-rounded perspective to new Mesa County role Phil Castle

as well as New England and Canada.

Whidden said people who work in information technology aren’t just “geeks,” Frank Whidden brings what he but offer an important perspective because considers a well-rounded perspective to his they’re familiar with nearly every aspect of new job as Mesa County administrator. operations and how work gets done. They Whidden worked also tend to think about new and potentially in information better ways of doing things in asking and technology and holds answering “what if ” questions. “They know a master’s degree in how to effect change in an organization.” computer information Whidden expects to bring that same systems. But he also approach to his duties as administrator. holds a doctoral Whidden said it’s his role to help degree in applied county commissioners make and then management and implement decisions. The commissioners decision making and Frank Whidden in turn represent the residents of the Hans Schmoldt, of Anode Systems in Grand Junction, two “We worked for more president than county and express theirholds will, up he said. versions of what he markets as Sunflower anodes for use in evaporative coolers.

20 years as a minister. Whidden has work for the people.”

The zinc and copper anodes control not only corrosion, but also bacteria and mold worked for fishy large smells and small said he also considers himself that create and organizations contaminate the air.Whidden Schmoldt believes the anodes in both the private and public a liaison the indoors commissioners offer important benefits at a sectors. time when people spendbetween more time and areand expects to draw on risks. all of (Business his county staff,photo and one of the priorities is to moreWhidden aware of potential health Times

by Phil Castle) experiences in helping Mesa County make sure employees feel valued. Whidden commissioners make and carry out decisions. said he hopes not only to improve morale, Valuing staff and making the county but also take steps that will make Mesa an employer of choice is among the County an organization for which people priorities, Whidden said. So is planning want to work. that results in sustainable funding and Meanwhile, Whidden expects the balanced budgets on a long-term basis. county to continue policies and initiatives Meanwhile, Mesa County will that support local business and economic continue to pursue efforts that promote a development. There are additional steps friendly business environment and that can be taken to make it easier for local Phil Castle FOR YOUR INFORMATION economic development, said. businesses to sell products and services to The Business Whidden Times Whidden officially began working as the county, he added.

For more information about county administrator the beginning of Mesa County will keep working with A large image thatatcovers most of one Sunflower anodes and Anode the year.

He succeeds Tom Fisher, who was other government entities, organizations wall at Anode Systems in Grand Junction Systems, visit the websites hired as county manager in Summit and institutions on fostering an environment offers a look at zinc oxide crystals up close at www.sunfloweranode.com County, Utah. that supports existing businesses and and personal. and www.anodesystems.com.

Whidden joined Mesa County in attracts new businesses, he said.

From that microscopic perspective, August 2011look as ainformation Whidden said there could be a the crystals bit like ninjatechnology throwing director.

In April 2014, he became deputy opportunities encourage the additional stars with sharp edges protruding in every 1984 to supply to a range of anodes and other county administrator for resource development of businesses provide direction. products to control corrosion that in pipelines management in a staffing reorganization services to the agricultural industry well “I like to say they slice and dice,” said and storage tanks. Anodes provide as what’s that eliminated four director positions. as promote Mesa County as a distribution Hans Schmoldt, president of the company. called cathodic protection. Anodes attach Before joining Mesa Schmoldt County, with centera for thetoregion.

It’s an important characteristic, wire the metal object that’s to Whidden worked for a company providing The important thing the is to consider said, because zinc oxide crystals poke holes in be protected. That turns object into information technology services to issues from a well-rounded perspective, the protective membranes of bacteria, fungus a cathode and creates a weak electric colleges universities. In thatmakes role, the he connection.

Whidden said.As“We won’t myopic flows as we and otherand microorganisms.

That long asbecurrent managed ITeffective systemsantibiotic and services for from look atthethings.” substance an for treating anode to the cathode, the anode institutions in Alabama, Arizona, Illinois ✦ metal it protects. everything from athlete’s foot to diaper rash corrodes instead of the The Business Times

Grand Junction firm sells cooler cleaners for the health of it

Let’s create something

...for your home, business, or toys!

S O L A R

P O W E R E D

1707 I-70 Business Loop Grand Junction

970-243-6310

allmetalswelding.com

Life is Precious

Serving families of the Western Slope for more than 100 years.

to the water circulating inside an evaporative cooler.

Anode Systems manufactures anodes that reduce not only corrosion in coolers, but also the microorganisms that create bad odors and potential health risks.

While there’s no evidence the anodes also reduce the threat of coronavirus, Schmoldt said the anodes offer benefits at a time when people are more likely indoors and cognizant of the quality of the air they breathe.

To that end, Schmoldt has ramped up efforts to distribute and sell what’s branded as Sunflower anodes. That includes increased staffing with graduates from Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction trained in marketing, engineering and microbiology.

Schmoldt founded Anode Systems in

Schmoldt developed the Sunflower anode to control corrosion in metal evaporative coolers, but discovered the anode also releases zinc oxide into the water that circulates in coolers. Zinc oxide controls the bad smells of so-called swamp coolers by controlling the microorganisms that can cause the odors.

Those microorganisms also can cause allergic reactions, asthma attacks, headaches and other health problems.

The original version of the Sunflower anode is made with zinc and comes with a wire that attaches with a screw to the metal of an evaporative cooler. The second version of the anode is made with zinc and a small copper plate. The second version doesn’t require grounding, so it works in plastic and fiberglass coolers.

See CLEANERS page 18

June 11-24, 2020

The Business Times

St. Mary’s receives an A for patient safety efforts Phil Castle

The Business Times

St. Mary’s Medical Center in Grand Junction has once again received an A for its efforts to ensure patient safety.

The medical center operated by SCL Health received an A rating from the Leapfrog Group in its spring 2020 hospital grades report. St. Mary’s has received an A in each of the last six twice-yearly assessments from the health care industry watchdog group.

Bryan Johnson, president of St. Mary’s, said the rating validates ongoing efforts to provide safe and highquality care while in turn driving down health care costs. “I couldn’t be more proud. It really is Bryan Johnson a fantastic thing to have happen.”

Dr. Andrew Jones, chief medical officer at St. Mary’s Medical Center agreed. “We are constantly monitoring and improving our quality, safety and value. Utilizing rating services like Leapfrog Andrew Jones gives us valuable, third-party evaluations of how we’re meeting our goals. A Leapfrog A rating is a hard mark to hit. We are happy to have met that mark again.”

Leapfrog Group has assigned A, B, C, D and F letter grades to general acute-care hospitals in the United States since 2012.

While the process is voluntary, more than 2,600 hospitals submit information for evaluations.

The rating takes into account 28 measures of publicly available information to produce a single grade. Letter grades

are based on how patients fare statistically, resources used in caring for patients and leadership and structures that promote patient safety.

According to the Leapfrog Group, tens of thousand of lives have been saved because of progress in promoting patient safety and reducing avoidable medical errors.

St. Mary’s Medical Center was among 16 Colorado hospitals receiving A grades in the latest report. Nine hospitals received B grades, 13 hospitals C grades and two hospitals D grades Johnson said the grades offer a measure patients can take into consideration in deciding where to go for health care services.

But the grades also promote accountability for the health care industry overall. The goal of health care providers, Johnson said, should be to provide safe and quality care at a lower cost.

At St. Mary’s, a string of six A grades affirms what Johnson said have become “hard-wired” procedures and processes to provide safe and quality care.

Procedures and processes change over time, though, in response to information about outcomes, he said. “It’s a constant and evolving process. You can’t just be stagnant.”

Improving safety and quality also drives down cost, Johnson said.

Limiting infections following knee replacement surgeries, for example, reduces the frequency of subsequent surgeries and complications and shortens hospital stays, he said.

Implementing nurse-driven protocols to remove catheters reduces urinary tract infections and speeds recovery, he added.

It takes time, Johnson said, as well as the participation and commitment of health care providers. “We’re just really proud of our staff.”

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Chief flight nurse retires after lengthy career with Careflight

A chief flight nurse has retired after more than 30 years of work for St. Mary’s Medical Center and Careflight of the Rockies in Grand Junction.

Kathy Shoemaker oversaw the Careflight of the Rockies flight program and managed aircraft vendors, personnel and policies.

Shoemaker joined St. Mary’s in 1986. After working in the emergency room for a year, she transitioned to what’s now Careflight of the Rockies. The program employs a team of highly trained flight nurses, paramedics, neonatal nurse practitioners, neonatal intensive care nurses, obstetrical nurses and respiratory therapists who provide care to adults, children and newborns.

“Like many of my colleagues, I’ve had the honor of working with Kathy for over 15 years,” said Dan Prinster, vice president of planning and Business Development at St. Mary’s. “From purchasing helicopters, fixed wing aircraft, ground ambulances to setting up a joint venture and expanding across Western Colorado, Kathy had the amazing knack and vision for this program. She will be missed.”

Dan Johnson has joined Careflight of the Rockies as the new director of flight operations. Johnson brings to his duties more than 25 years of experience in emergency medicine as a registered nurse and paramedic.

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June 11-24, 2020

Analysis under way to support Grand Valley recovery An analysis is under way to assess the effects of the coronavirus pandemic on the Grand Valley economy.

The Grand Junction Economic Partnership has joined with Colorado Mesa University to conduct the analysis, the first phase of which involves a survey of about 500 businesses across industry sectors in Mesa County.

Nathan Perry, an economics Robin Brown professor at CMU, and the GJEP staff developed the 30-question survey. GJEP staff will conduct telephone calls and collect survey responses electronically.

Initial survey results should be ready in July.

Robin Brown, executive director of GJEP, said the results of the analysis will support economic recovery. “Mesa

County has maintained low numbers of COVID-19 cases since the start of the pandemic. Thanks to the proactive efforts of Mesa County Public Health and our local governments, we can safely begin the economic recovery process in the Grand Valley. In order to best support our business community, we first need to better understand the unique circumstances of each industry.”

Tim Foster CMU President Tim Foster said the analysis constitutes another example of collaboration with GJEP. “From the CMU Student Showcase and Entrepreneurship Day to economic development and economic research, the partnership between GJEP and the CMU remains strong and continues serving the best interests

of the community and students,” Foster said. “The analysis and research produced by the CMU Department of Business in conjunction with GJEP continues to enrich our community during times of prosperity and in times of challenge.”

The analysis will help economic development partners and local municipalities determine how to allocate resources to support recovery as well as develop of timeline of when the economy will return to pre-pandemic levels.

The GJEP database of local businesses; membership directories of chambers of commerce in Fruita, Grand Junction and Palisade; and ResearchUSA were used to create a list of companies that represent the spectrum of industries in Mesa County. GJEP will combine survey results with the findings of a survey recently conducted by Visit Grand Junction of the hospitality, leisure and tourism industries.

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JC Penney store in Grand Junction not on closure list

The JC Penney at Mesa Mall in Grand Junction is not among the 154 stores the national apparel and home retailer plans to close in the first phase of a reorganization.

The JC Penney at the River Landing Shopping Center in Montrose is on the list of store closures, however. So are locations in the Durango Mall and Greeley Mall as well as in Fort Collins. The company expects the first round of store closures to take 10 to 16 weeks to complete. Additional phases of store closures are planned under a Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization.

“While closing stores is always an extremely difficult decision, our store optimization strategy is vital to ensuring we emerge from both Chapter 11 and the COVID-19 pandemic as a stronger retailer Jill Soltau with greater financial flexibility to allow us to continue serving our loyal customers for decades to come,” said Jill Soltau, chief executive officer.

As of June 4, JC Penney had reopened nearly 500 stores as pandemic restrictions eased and expects to open more, Soltau said. “We are excited to welcome back our customers and associates at these locations, and we will continue to take actions to be best positioned to build on our over 100year history.”

According to a news release, stores were selected for closures based on the results of an evaluation that included store performance and future fit for operations.

The company plans to focus resources on its strongest stores as well as online sales.

JC Penney was among the national retailers to file for bankruptcy during the pandemic.

Pier 1 Imports also filed for bankruptcy and announced the company had received court approval to close all of the more than 500 stores it operates in the United States — including the location in Grand Junction.

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June 11-24, 2020

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June 11-24, 2020

Mesa County Libraries reopen on limited basis Mesa County Libraries have reopened to public visits, but on a limited basis.

The central library in Grand Junction and branch locations in Clifton, Fruita, Orchard Mesa and Palisade as well as in De Beque and Gateway will operate under modified hours.

Library locations with multiple doorways have designated entrances and exits. Shelving and furniture have been rearranged to enable social distancing.

See-through shields have been installed around service desks. In children’s areas, toys have been removed.

The number of people allowed inside library locations is limited and determined on a first-come, first-served basis.

Library staff wear masks, and library patrons are encouraged to wear masks as well.

Patrons returning materials should use outside book drops rather than going into libraries.

Curbside pickup of materials will continue at all library locations. To use the service, patrons place items on hold through the online catalog. They’re notified when items are available and call to schedule appointments for pickups.

Electronic books and audiobooks as well as other services are available online. Story time events, summer reading

LIBRARY HOURS

Here are the modified hours for Mesa County Libraries locations: n Central library in downtown Grand Junction: noon to 7 p.m.

Monday to Thursday, noon to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. n Clifton and Fruita: noon to 6 p.m. Monday to Thursday, noon to 5 p.m. Friday, 10 am. to 2 p.m. Saturday. n Palisade and Orchard Mesa: noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday, noon to 5 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. n Collbran: noon to 6 p.m.

Tuesday and Thursday, noon to 5 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. n De Beque: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Friday. n Gateway: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Thursday. n 970West Studio: Reservations open for studio time in July. programs and other activities also are offered online.

For more information, log on to the Mesa County Libraries website located at https://mesacountylibraries.org.

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June 11-24, 2020

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June 11-24, 2020

Kiwanis Club: News, views No pancakes, and advice but sponsors you can use still give funds

Subscribe today to the journal that means business in the Grand Valley (970) 424-5133

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The Grand Junction Kiwanis Club canceled its Pancake Day for the first time since the annual fund-raiser started in 1967.

But thanks to corporate sponsors, nearly $14,000 still was raised.

Toni HeidenMoran, chairwoman of the Kiwanis Pancake Day and Fun Fest, said 38 businesses that agreed to sponsor the event declined refunds even though the event was canceled because of the coronavirus T. Heiden-Moran pandemic.

The businesses decided to allow the club to keep a total of $13,650 that will be contributed to local organizations helping children.

“Kiwanis thanks all our corporate sponsors. All money collected goes back to the children,” Heiden-Moran said.

Kiwanis Pancake Day and Fun Fest is scheduled to resume in June 2021.

The Kiwanis Club held its first Pancake Day in 1967. Members set up tables and chairs on Main Street and cooked pancakes on Army camp stores.

The event has evolved over the years. In 2015, the event was moved from a Friday to a Saturday. Games for children were added, and nonprofit groups were invited to set up information booths.

For 2020, Leonard Silence was a platinum sponsor of more than $1,500.

Silver sponsors of more than $500 each were: 1st & Grand Shell Station; Advanced Skin Care and Laser Center; Avalanche Heating, Cooling and Plumbing; Barnes Electric; Blythe Group and Co.; Enstrom Candies; Grand Junction Subaru; Grand Valley Power; Home Loan Insurance; Mesa Jewelers; and Whitewater Building Materials.

Bronze Sponsors of more than $250 each were: AirTech and Haining Home Services; Bechtel, Santo and Severn; Catherine C. Burkey PC; Dalby, Wendland and Co.; Dufford Waldeck Law; EC Electric; Five Lights Pet Crematory; Edward Jones Investments-Erick Field; GeoStabilization International; Julie M Gillis DDS; Grand Mesa Medical Supply; Impact Promotional Products; Hilltop; J. Dyer Construction; JG Management Systems; Kokopelli Animal Hospital; Office Outfitters and Planners; Monument Waste Services; Rider & Quesenberry; Rocky Mountain Sanitation; Sooper Credit Union; State Farm-Seth Rockey; Storm’s Specialty Services and Weichert RealtorsHeiden Homes Realty.

Sponsors donating more than $100 each were: Burton Orthodontics; Tom Burwell; and Grand Mesa Mechanical, Plumbing, Heating and Cooling.

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June 11-24, 2020

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June 11-24, 2020

Firm offers marketing service plans

A Grand Junction company operating an on-demand internet marketing platform has launched service plans to help businesses survive the coronavirus pandemic.

MySalesButler.com offers plans to help businesses quickly ramp up their online presence with the assistance of a curated team of experts and freelancers.

The team can help businesses drive sales with one-page websites as well assist them with Google Adwords, Google My Business, Facebook and Instagram ads and email marketing. Corporate sponsors and freelancers are committed to help businesses that might not have the cash on hand to pay for services.

While some businesses have started selling online to generate additional revenue during the pandemic and associated restrictions, they could continue online sales after the pandemic.

Founded in 2011, MySalesButler.com helps clients complete their marketing tasks without the overhead, vetting processes and turnover associated with hiring staff or outsourcing services. The company offers services related to marketing automation, online sales and social media. Clients purchase only those services they need.

For more information, call 364-0444 or log on to www.MySalesButler.com.

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Reopening

Continued from page 2 Businesses must post signs or mark floors as well as arrange equipment and furniture to keep people at least 6 feet apart. Signs at entrances should encourage or require face coverings.

One-way entrances and exits and directional walkways must be implemented and physical barriers erected in closecontact situations for cashiers or checkout stations. Hand sanitizer stations or hand washing facilities must be available.

Businesses also mus frequently clean and disinfect bathrooms and high-touch surfaces as well as maintain records of cleanings.

Employees who come into contact with the public must wear face coverings over their noses and mouths.

Following online approval of applications, Mesa County Public Health conducts audits to ensure practices are followed and address any questions that arise.

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FOR YOUR INFORMATION For more information about Phase 2 of the Safer at Home plan, visit the Mesa County Public Health website located at https://health.mesacounty.us.

June 11-24, 2020

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The Business Times

News, views First and advice you can use

Subscribe today to the journal that means business in the Grand Valley (970) 424-5133

www.thebusinesstimes.com

June 11-24, 2020

Continued from page 2 The onset of the coronavirus pandemic and stay-at-home orders and business closures that followed affected Humphrey RV, Bunge and Roach say.

While online sales work for other businesses, even automotive dealerships, they don’t work for RV dealerships, they say.

Customer want to not only see RVs, but also get inside them and check them out in person.

Given the restrictions, Humphrey RV closed its Montrose location and furloughed most of the staff at its Grand Junction location. RV shows in which the dealership usually participated were canceled.

Circumstances required that difficult decisions be made quickly to reduce expenses to match reduce revenues, Roach says. “It came at us so fast.”

Bunge says sales in April were the worst in a decade for Humphrey RV, one of the largest RV dealers in Colorado.

As restrictions eased in May, businesses were allowed to resume operations on a limited basis. Humphrey RV asked that customers schedule appointments to view vehicles. All RVs are sanitized between showings and remained locked between showings.

Business rebounded in May, Roach says, and resulted in one of the highest months for unit sales at the Grand Junction location. Says Bunge: “Once May hit, we took off.”

Humphrey RV reopened its Montrose location and brought back most of the employees at its Montrose and Grand Junction locations.

The restrictions and furloughs afforded an opportunity to reorganize the various departments at Humphrey RV and resulted in a better operation, Roach says.

Moving forward, Bunge and Roach say they expect demand for recreational vehicles to remain strong as people look for ways to travel and vacation, but without commercial air travel or cruises. Since many people have postponed vacations, they also expect the travel season to extend later into the fall.

A shortage of vehicles and parts could pose some issues because the pandemic also closed manufacturers. But Humphrey RV maintains one of the largest inventories in the region, Bunge and Roach say.

While the pandemic, closures and subsequent reopening have been challenging, Bunge and Roach say they’re grateful to customers and staff for making the graph of sales look more like a V than an elongated L. F

FOR YOUR INFORMATION Humphrey RV operates locations at 2749 U.S. Highway 50 in Grand Junction and 4088 N. Townsend Ave. in Montrose. For more information, call the Grand Junction location at 256-7338 or Montrose location at 240-8503 or visit www.humphreyrv.com.

June 11-24, 2020

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June 11-24, 2020

Slowdown

Continued from page 2 Proportionally, the year-over-year decreases are among the biggest since the oil shale bust in the 1980s and Great Recession a decade ago, Bray said.

For the first five months of 2020, Miller said 1,814 real estate transactions worth a collective $557 million were reported in Mesa County. Compared to the same span in 2019, transactions decreased 9.7 percent and dollar volume declined 5.9 percent.

According to Bray Real Estate, 1,316 residential transactions worth a combined $389 million were reported through the first five months of 2020. Compared to the same period in 2019, transactions fell 10.7 percent and dollar volume decreased 5.4 percent.

Miller and Bray said real estate closings constitute a lagging indicator of activity from four to six weeks or even more beforehand. Consequently, the latest numbers reflect activity going back to April and March, when pandemic restrictions and stay-at-home orders were in full effect.

Less-restrictive guidelines since have been implemented in Mesa County. While open houses are still prohibited, real estate agents can schedule showings.

The effects of the pandemic could persist for a while longer in real estate numbers, Miller and Bray said.

They also expect the trend to change.

Bray said homebuyer activity remains strong. Interest rates on 30- and 15-year mortgages have moved lower, he said.

“That’s the good news in all this.”

Lack of housing inventory presents a headwind, though. At the end of May, there were 555 active listing. That’s down 26.9 percent from the same time last year and the lowest level in 12 years, he said.

The median price of homes sold through the first five months of 2020 rose 8.8 percent to $272,000.

Bray said the Mesa County real estate market remains healthy overall and he still anticipates a good year.

Miller said she expects the fallout of the pandemic on the real estate market to shift from the direct effects on businesses and individuals to broader economic implications and whether or not people have jobs that enable them to purchase homes.

Bray said the pandemic could exert another effect in motivating more people to move from big cities hit hardest by the outbreak to locations like the Grand Valley.

Meanwhile, property foreclosure activity continues to slow in Mesa County.

Miller said four foreclosure filings were reported in May with no foreclosure sales.

Through the first five months of 2020, there were 66 filings and 16 sales.

Compared to the same span in 2019, filings decreased 21.4 percent and sales dropped 70.9 percent.

The 20 resales of foreclosed properties through the first five months of 2020 constituted 1.1 percent of all real estate transactions, Miller said. That’s below the 10 percent threshold she considers indicative of a healthy real estate market.

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The Business Times

Cleaners

Continued from page 4 The combination of zinc and copper in the second version also creates a stronger electric current that makes the anode work more effectively, Schmoldt said.

While the Sunflower anodes cost more than products sold by competitors, Schmoldt said they work better. “You get what you pay for.”

Cody Maynard, marketing manager at Anode Systems, said Sunflower anodes are available at the Peach True Value hardware store in Grand Junction. He said he’s working on arranging for additional retail outlets to sell the anodes.

Sunflower anodes also are available for purchase online from an updated website, Maynard said, and have sold to customers living in dry and hot climates not only in the western United States, but also around the world.

Additional efforts are under way, he said, to market Sunflower anodes through such social media platforms as Facebook, YouTube and Instagram.

Heidi Kloser, one of the microbiological specialists who’ve joined Anode Systems, said Sunflower anodes work well in cleaning the air from evaporative coolers and reducing the risks for people susceptible to respiratory problems. That’s important in the midst of a pandemic that’s forced people to spend more times indoors.

Cambria Camp, another microbiological specialist, agreed, but also welcomed

June 11-24, 2020

A new version of the Sunflower anode comes wired to a copper plate.

That means the anode can be used in plastic and fiberglass evaporative coolers and also works more effectively than the original version.

(Business Times photo by Phil Castle) comparison shopping. “We encourage people to do their own research.”

When they discover what those zinc oxide crystals can do, Camp said they’ll realize the advantages of Sunflower anodes.

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News Trends Unemployment Contributors rate spikes Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac The Business Times

June 11-24, 2020

Page 19

INDICATORS AT A GLANCE

n Business filings t New business filings in Colorado, 33,848 in the first quarter, down 5.6% from the first quarter of 2018.

n Confidence

s Consumer Confidence Index 86.6 in May, up 0.9. t Leeds Business Confidence Index for Colorado, 29.7 for the second quarter, down 21.1. s National Federation of Independent Business Small Business Optimism Index 94.4 for May, up 4.5.

n Foreclosures t Foreclosure filings in Mesa County, 4 in May, down from 7 in May 2019.

t Foreclosure sales in Mesa County, 0 in May, down from 5 in May 2019.

n Indexes

s Conference Board Employment Trends Index, 46.28 for May, up 3.75. t Conference Board Leading Economic Index 98.8 for April, down 4.4% s Institute for Supply Management Purchasing Managers Index for the manufacturing sector, 43.1% for May, up 1.6%.

n Lodging

t Lodging tax collections in Grand Junction, $64,909 for April, down 40.2% from April 2019.

n Real estate

t Real estate transactions in Mesa County, 347 in May, down 34% from May 2019. t Dollar volume of real estate transactions in Mesa County, $106 million in May, down 27.9% from May 2019.

n Sales

t Sales and use tax collections in Grand Junction, $4.4 million for April, down 10.3% from April 2019. t Sales and use tax collections in Mesa County, $2.86 million for May, down 11.8% from May 2019.

n Unemployment

s Colorado — 11.3% for April, up 6.1. s Mesa County — 12.6% for April, up 5.6. t United States — 13.3% for May, down 1.4.

Mesa County efforts to ease business restrictions offer encouragement Phil Castle

Initial claims for unemployment have decreased, however, each week since 2,583 claims were filed for the week ending April March The monthly unemployment rate has March 28, he said. For the week ending s Delta County 10.2 7.9 spiked to one its highest levels ever in Mesa May 16, 338 claims were filed. s Garfield County 13.4 6.0 County as the effects of the coronavirus Englehart said he expects fewer s Mesa County 12.6 7.0 pandemic and related restrictions play out unemployment claims and a lower s Montrose County 12.0 7.5 in the labor market. unemployment rate as more businesses t Rio Blanco County 7.3 7.4 The low number reopen and more people return to work. “I do of positive coronavirus feel like we’re making our way out of that.” cases and efforts to reopen businesses in the Mesa County Public Health has received a variance from state county offer encouragement, though, the orders to move to the next phase of local pandemic guidelines that jobless rate will retreat as more people return ease restrictions. to work, said Curtis Englehart, director of According to the latest numbers, there have been 62 the Mesa County Workforce Center in Grand positive cases of COVID-19 in the county. Nobody is currently Junction. “I hope this is more temporary than hospitalized with the disease. There have been no deaths attributed anything.” to the disease.

The seasonally unadjusted unemployment The workforce center is scheduled to reopen June 15. Until Curtis Englehart rate jumped 5.6 points to 12.6 percent in then, staff continues to work remotely to provide services to April, according to estimates from the Colorado Department of people filing for unemployment benefits and looking for work as Labor and Employment. well as employers recruiting new hires, Englehart said. For April, The latest rate is the highest since hitting 12.1 percent in 388 job orders were posted at the work force center.

March 2010, Englehart said. At this time last year, the rate was Seasonally unadjusted unemployment rates also increased in 3.3 percent. neighboring Western Colorado counties: 7.4 points to 13.4 percent Unlike the gradual increase in monthly jobless rates during in Garfield Country, 4.5 points to 12 percent in Montrose County the Great Recession, the coronavirus pandemic resulted in sudden and 2.3 points to 10.2 percent in Delta County. The jobless rate business closures and layoffs that sent the jobless rate soaring 8.5 edged down a tenth of a point to 7.3 percent in Rio Blanco County. points over the past two months, Englehart said. “This was just an Elsewhere in the region, unemployment rates topped 20 percent unprecedented spike.” in Eagle, Gilpin, Pitkin, San Miguel and Summit counties.

For April, Mesa County payrolls decreased 6,714 to 64,072.

The statewide seasonally adjusted unemployment rate jumped The number of people counted among those unsuccessfully looking 6.1 points to 11.3 percent, the highest level since comparable for work increased 3,945 to 9,270. The labor force, which includes records began in 1976. the employed and unemployed, contracted 2,769 to 73,342.

Nonfarm payrolls decreased 323,500 from March to April Compared to a year ago, payrolls retreated 9,904 even as the with the biggest losses in the leisure and hospitality; education ranks of the unemployed advanced 6,741. The labor force shrank and health services; and trade, transportation and utilities sectors.

3,163.

Over the past year, the jobless rate climbed 8.4 points while A total of 5,412 claims for unemployment insurance were nonfarm payrolls dropped 296,200. reported in Mesa County in April, Englehart said. The leisure and The average workweek for employees on private, nonfarm hospitality and trade, transportation and utilities sectors led the payrolls edged up a tenth of an hour to 32.8 hours. Average hourly way with job losses, although nearly every sector experienced earnings increased $1.63 to $31.98. declines, he said.

F The Business Times

AREA JOBLESS RATES

Small Business Optimism Index rebounds A monthly measure of optimism among small business owners has rebounded on more upbeat expectations for improving sales and staffing.

The National Federation of Independent Business reported its Small Business Optimism Index rose 4.5 points to 94.4 in May. The index dropped a total of 13.6 points in April and March in the aftermath of the coronavirus pandemic and related restrictions.

Bill Dunkelberg, chief economist of the NFIB, said small business owners are more optimistic about business conditions and expect a recession to be short-lived.

Bill Dunkelberg “As states begin to reopen, small businesses continue to navigate the economic landscape rocked by COVID-19 and new government policies,” Dunkelberg said. “It’s still uncertain when consumers will feel comfortable returning to small businesses and begin spending again, but owners are taking the necessary precautions to open safely.”

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

small business owners. For May, eight of 10 components of the index advanced.

The portion of those who responded to the survey upon which the May index was based who expect higher sales rose 18 points from a record low in April. But at a net negative 24 percent, more owners still expect lower sales than higher sales.

The proportion of those planning to increase staffing rose seven points to a net 8 percent. A net 23 percent reported hard-to-fill job openings, down a point.

A net 34 percent of respondents expect the economy to improve over the next six months, up five points.

A net 20 percent reported plans to make capital outlays, up two points. A net 5 percent said they consider now a good time to expand, also up two points.

A net 2 percent of respondents reported plans to increase inventories, up six points. At a net negative 5 percent, more respondents reported their inventories as too high rather than too low.

The share of those reporting higher earnings fell six points to a net negative 26 percent. Among those reporting weaker profits, 46 percent blamed lower sales.

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The Business Times

Page 20

June 11-24, 2020

U.S. payrolls rebound Confidence index rises as millions return to work U.S. payrolls rebounded in May as restaurants and other businesses shuttered by the coronavirus pandemic began to reopen and millions of people returned to work.

Nonfarm payrolls increased 2.5 million, the biggest one-month gain since at least 1939. The unemployment rate decreased 1.4 points to 13.3 percent, according to the latest Labor Department estimates.

The job gains don’t offset job losses over the previous two months, however, most of them related to closures and stay-at-home orders intended to slow the spread of the virus.

According to revised estimates, payrolls dropped 20.7 million in April and 1.4 million in March. The monthly job loss in April was the largest on record and pushed the jobless rate to its highest level for monthly records going back to 1948.

For May, 15.3 million people were counted among those on temporary layoffs.

Permanent job losses increased to 2.3 million.

Another 10.6 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 increased six-tenths of a point to 60.8 percent.

At 1.4 million, more than half the payroll gains occurred at restaurants and other food services and drinking places.

Construction payrolls increased 464,000, while employment rose 424,000 in

Labor index rises

A monthly index tracking labor trends has increased, forecasting job growth in the months ahead.

The Conference Board reported its Employment Trends Index (ETI) rose 3.75 points to 46.28 in May. The ETI has retreated 57.9 percent over the past year, however, following sharp declines in April and March.

F education and health services, 368,000 in retail trades, 225,000 in manufacturing and 127,000 in professional and business services.

Government payrolls shrank 585,000, with most of the losses in local government.

Employment also decreased 38,000 in the information sector and 20,000 in mining.

The average workweek for employees on private, nonfarm payrolls rose a half hour to 34.7 hours. The manufacturing workweek rose eight-tenths of an hour to 38.9 hours.

Average hourly earnings for employees on private, nonfarm payrolls fell 29 cents to $29.75. The drop reflected job gains among lower-paid workers that pulled the average down.

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A measure of consumer confidence has edged up as business reopenings buoy expectations for improving economic conditions in the United States.

Consumers remain wary, nonetheless, about the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, said Lynn Franco, senior director of economic indicators at the Conference Board. “While the decline in confidence appears to have stopped for the moment, the uneven path to recovery and potential second wave are likely to keep a cloud of uncertainty hanging over consumers’ heads.”

The Conference Board reported its Consumer Confidence Index rose nine-tenths of a point to 86.6 in May. The gain follows a nearly 32-point drop in April.

The business research and membership group bases the Lynn Franco index on the results of monthly household surveys. Economists monitor the index because consumer spending accounts for more than two-thirds of economic activity.

Consumers remain worried about their financial prospects and the potential for inflation, Franco said.

Less upbeat assessments of current business and labor conditions pushed down the present situation component of the index 1.9 points to 71.1.

The share of those who responded to the survey upon which the May index was based who characterized business conditions as “good” fell 3.6 points to 16.3 percent.

The proportion of those who said conditions are “bad rose 6.8 points to 52.1 percent.

The share of those who called jobs “plentiful” fell 1.4 points to 17.4 percent.

But the proportion of those who said jobs are “hard to get” fell more — 6.7 points to 27.8 percent.

More optimistic outlooks pushed up the expectations component of the index 2.6 points to 96.9.

The proportion of those who expect business conditions to improve over the next six months rose 3.5 points to 43.3 percent. The share of those anticipating worsening conditions fell 3.7 points to 21.4 percent.

While 14 percent of consumers expect their incomes to increase, down 3.2 points, the proportion of those who expect their incomes to decrease fell 3.4 points to 15 percent.

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Economic indexes signal U.S. now in recession territory A monthly index forecasting economic conditions in the United States continues to slide, suggesting the coronavirus pandemic and related restrictions have triggered a recession.

The Conference Board reported its Leading Economic Index (LEI) fell 4.4 percent to 98.8 in April. That decline follows a 7.4 percent decrease in March, the largest monthly decline Ataman Ozyildirim in the 60-year history of the index.

The Coincident Economic Index (CEI), a separate measure of current conditions, retreated 8.9 percent to 96.6 in April.

“The sharp declines in the LEI and CEI suggest that the U.S economy is now in recession territory,” said Ataman

Ozyildirim, senior director of economic research at the Conference Board. “Business conditions may recover for some sectors and industries over the next few months. But the breadth and depth of the decline in the LEI suggest that an imminent reopening of some sectors does not imply a fast rebound for the economy at large.”

The LEI decreased 11.3 percent over the past six months after edging down two-tenths of a percent during the six-month span before that. Weaknesses among the indicators in the index have grown more widespread.

Gross domestic product, the broad measure of goods and services produced in the country, fell at an annual rate of 4.8 percent during the first quarter.

For April, six of 10 indicators of the LEI declined, including average weekly manufacturing hours, building permits, consumer expectations and leading credit and new

orders indexes. An increase in average weekly initial claims for unemployment insurance also pulled down the index.

Four indicators advanced: interest rate spread, new orders for both capital and consumer goods and stock prices.

The CEI declined 9.6 percent over the past six months.

For April, industrial production and payrolls decreased even as personal income and sales increased.

The Lagging Economic Indicator (LAG), a measure of past performance, increased 4.1 percent to 115.3. The index rose 6.2 percent over the past three months.

For April, commercial and industrial financing and consumer debt advanced. A decrease in the average duration of unemployment also bolstered the index. The average prime rate charged by banks and the cost of services declined. The cost of labor and inventories held steady.

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Trends Contributors Opinion Ensuring dining is fine Business Briefs Business People Almanac

June 11-24, 2020

The Business Times

Page 21

COMING ATTRACTIONS

n The Business Incubator Center offers presentations and webinars on starting a business in Western Colorado.

The next sessions of an in-person business startup workshop are set for 6 p.m.

June 11 and 9 a.m. July 29 at the center, 2591 Legacy Way in Grand Junction Two-part webinars on how to start a business are set for 1 to 2:30 p.m. June 29 and 30 and again from 9 to 10:30 a.m.

Aug. 13 and 14.

Workshops and webinars cover the business planning process, financing and other topics. Admission is $55.

For more information about upcoming events, services and programs offered at the Business Incubator Center, call 243-5242 or visit the website at www.gjincubator.org. n A presentation on change management is planned as part of an upcoming event organized by the Western Colorado Human Resource Association.

The monthly program is set for 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. June 17 at the Bookcliff Country Club, 2730 G Road in Grand Junction.

The presentation also will be offered virtually. To register or obtain additional information, visit www.wchra.org/events. n A series of free online presentations related to starting and growing businesses in Western Colorado is planned as part of a virtual version of West Slope Startup Week.

Presentations are set for Tuesday mornings and Thursday afternoons July 7 to 30.

For more information, visit https://westslopestartupweek.com.

Mesa County restaurants join in efforts to implement new guidelines

The return of restaurant dining offers an encouraging sign of life for the Mesa County economy.

Many restaurants have ramped up their takeout and delivery business during the stay at home order issued in response to the coronavirus pandemic But the low rate of positive COVID-19 cases and a willingness to adhere to safety measures mean local restaurants have the go-ahead to increase their dine-in capacity more quickly than in many other parts of Colorado.

“Mesa County is kind of leading the charge,” said Ashley Chasseur, whose Palisade restaurant, Pêche, reopened for on-site dining on May 29.

Mesa County Public Health has twice received approval from the State of Colorado for variances to statewide orders. The latest variance allows businesses to open at up to 50 percent of their capacity, not to exceed more than 175 people in a confined indoor space. To do so, businesses must submit a Sarah plan to MCPH indicating how they’ll follow Johnson best practices for safe operations.

While the reopening constitutes welcome news for many restaurant owners and their employees, shifting to a new way of doing business isn’t easy. Something as straightforward as a front door can present a problem to solve.

“We only have one entry. It’s an entry and an exit all together.

In order to try to keep that as sanitary as possible, we have to really divide up the way the reservations are coming in, the times that people are coming in. You just have to think about all those things,” Chasseur said. “We are timing things and wiping the doors down and keeping it as sanitary as we possibly can.”

Regulations that keep workers and customers safe are nothing new for restaurant owners. “If we get one person sick, we’re done,” said Randy Emmons, owner of Randy’s Southside Diner and its three locations in Mesa County.

The coronavirus pandemic has complicated the process of maintaining restaurant safety because guidelines have changed as the pandemic has evolved. Prior to the pandemic, Mesa County Public Health employed a team of three to inspect and provide resources to retail food establishments. That team has temporarily expanded to 13 to accommodate the increased interaction required for restaurants and other businesses to open with appropriate safety precautions in place.

David Wang, an environmental health specialist at MCPH, said most restaurants have done their homework and are prepared when someone from the consumer protection team visits. But each

The main role of the consumer protection team, especially during the pandemic, is to educate and provide resources so restaurants can operate safely and successfully.

restaurant encounters different challenges and considerations.

“They can be both prepared and have a lot of questions for us,” Wang said. “A lot of restaurants are unique. They might have special processes or have a unique way of doing something. We always appreciate them asking us if this is OK or if this is not OK. What do we think about this? And we’re always happy to give that feedback.”

The main role of the consumer protection team, especially during the pandemic, is to educate and provide resources so restaurants can operate safely and successfully, Wang said. One of the biggest challenges, however, is following best practices when some guidelines, such as wearing face coverings, create friction or even outright conflict with customers.

Emmons said he’s trying to do what’s right, keeping in mind the health and safety of his family — including a family member with a chronic health condition that could make her more susceptible to COVID-19 complications — as well as his employees and the community.

When some restaurants don’t enforce guidelines, it makes it more difficult for those restaurants that do, he said. “You’ve got the people that are scared out of their mind, that appreciate what we’re trying to do. And then you have other people that say we’re taking away their freedom.”

Chasseur and Emmons said they appreciate the support they’ve received from customers throughout the pandemic.

Emmons said many customers now visit Randy’s for takeout, which went from about 2 percent of sales to 85 percent.

“To say thank you will never be enough,” Chasseur said. “They saved our business. It’s super emotional because for us. We’re not just a business. Our family is tied into it. Everything we have is tied into it. They saved so much more than just a restaurant.”

Sarah Johnson is community organizer for Mesa County Public Health. Connect with the department on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MesaCountyPublicHealth or on Twitter at @MC_PublicHealth.

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The Business Times

June 11-24, 2020

Now, more than ever, examples of leadership needed Whether you’re aware of it or not, you’re a leader.

You lead at work, at home and in your community. You lead by your example in all areas of your life.

Your team members are watching.

Your spouse, children, extended family and people you don’t even know are watching for guidance on how to successfully navigate the professional and personal realms of life. Is your example of leadership as solid as you’d like it to be?

There’s always a need for leadership. But it’s especially crucial at a time when a pandemic, economic Marcus problems, political divides, racial Straub issues and widespread protests present challenges.

If you’ve ever been in a situation in which a person in a position of leadership was irrational — not calm and composed — demeaning, verbally abusive or didn’t listen, you understand leadership is about actions and not titles.

When a “leader” adds to the dysfunction of the situation instead of contributing to its improvement, leadership is damaged and even destroyed. People distrust this person and loyalty evaporates. They lose the willingness to listen to this leader, respect for the person vanishes and so does their desire to follow.

To be an effective, trusted, respected and admired leader, you must consistently provide a solid example for others to follow — an example that empowers others to be the best they can be. Good leadership is composed, fair, inspiring, intelligent, response and true. It’s proactive rather than reactive, egalitarian in nature and not based in fear.

The greatest leaders in history demonstrated these qualities, which spoke to the hearts and minds of their followers.

The best leaders are those who look at themselves first for the improvements that can be made.

They don’t blame others. They look in the mirror, own what’s theirs to fix, do so and then work constructively with others to be accountable as well.

Yet another critical trait of effective leadership is accountability. That’s the ability to hold yourself to the standards of effective communication, empowerment, integrity, learning, openness and teamwork. True leaders don’t need others to hold them accountable because they know the power of implementing these qualities on a consistent basis. In fact, effective, trusted, respected and admired leaders enjoy holding themselves accountable to the very best within them. They also find pleasure in helping others be their best and develop constructive approaches to accomplish this transformative feat.

The best leaders are those who look at themselves first for the improvements that can be made. They don’t blame others. They look in the mirror, own what’s theirs to fix, do so and then work constructively with others to be accountable as well. They’re not the victims of others or circumstances. They maintain their composure.

Effective, trusted, respected and admired leaders seek solutions. Rather than being blinded by problems, they see opportunities for growth, development and improvement.

They have a “get-to” attitude and remain grateful for life and all it contains. They don’t take people and life

for granted. They understand the value of life, time and people.

The best leaders are aware of both their strengths and weaknesses. They know when to engage professionals to help them develop strategies to effectively deal with their weaknesses and leverage their strengths more completely.

If you aspire to be the best leader you can be, explore your resources and options and then go for it.

Solid leadership in your business and life begins with you and provides a consistent and credible example for the rest of your team to follow. Developing the ability to lead effectively will have an enormously positive effect on the success of your businesses. As your leadership becomes more effective, so will the rest of your team. The company culture will thrive as team members are inspired by your leadership. Positive energy will grow as people feel heard, recognized, supported and valued. They will strive to be their best as they’re consistently encouraged to do so by your example.

There’s a great need for solid leadership, especially at this time. Effective, trusted, respected and admired leadership will help us get to the other side sooner and be all the better for it.

Marcus Straub owns Life is Great Coaching in Grand Junction.

His personalized coaching and consulting services help individuals, business owners, executives and companies build teams, organizations and lives filled with happiness and success. Straub is winner of the International Coach of the Year Award and author of “Is It Fun Being You?” He’s available for free consultations regarding coaching, speaking and trainings. Reach Straub at 208-3150, marcus@lifeisgreatcoaching.com or through the website located at www.lifeisgreatcoaching.com.

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June 11-24, 2020

The Business Times

Page 23

Pitch perfect: Here’s how to impress with less You have only 30 to 60 seconds — that’s 75 to 150 words — to grab someone’s attention. That’s about the amount of time it takes to ride an elevator a few floors — hence the term “elevator pitch.” It’s crucial to make your pitch concise, jargon-free and focused on what you provide rather than how or why you provide it.

So, what does an elevator pitch involve? Here’s a generic example.

You probably offer many products or services, so you’ll want several pitches to meet different goals.

We/I provide three main services/ products. We/I solve problem or situation ABC by providing our competitive advantage to help a particular person or group achieve its goal or objective.

Janet Note the focus on what rather Arrowood than how and the way the pitch makes the prospect’s goals or objectives the most important thing since that’s the final part of the pitch.

Here are two examples.

A not-so-good pitch for a real estate professional: “My name is ABC. I work for DEF Realty. We provide a full range of value-added services backed by our stellar reputation to help anyone interested in buying or selling a house or investment property fulfill their personal dreams or business investment goals. We do this by ensuring all properties get maximum exposure in the real estate market so we can get our clients the best possible value for their money or price for their resale.”

That’s more 70 words that say next to nothing. If your pitch includes words like “any,” “every” or “all” or generic adjectives, you’re not pitching a valuable service or product.

You’re too vague and unlikely to attract much business.

If your pitch includes words like “any,” “every” or “all” or generic adjectives, you’re not pitching a valuable service or product. You’re too vague and unlikely to attract much business.

Try this instead: “My name is ABC. I’ve been a licensed Realtor for more than XX years. The three types of neighborhoods I specialize in are X, Y and Z. My company and I are experts in client relocation to these neighborhoods. We have assisted XX families and YY companies with their relocation needs during the past ZZ years. We’re usually able to get you into your new home in 60 days or less.”

That’s roughly the same number of words. But now you’re more focused and have used a layperson’s terms.

Most of the people in your network can relate to this. They get the sense of what it is you do and what you want from them. In addition, you’ve provided a couple of specific examples of the types of clients or prospects you seek, even if the person you’re pitching isn’t one of those prospects.

Another version of your elevator pitch should focus on your centers of influence. These are people or positions that can get you in front of or in contact with potential clients.

I’ve found a pitch focusing on gaining contacts with these centers of influence to be successful. For starters, the person you’re pitching doesn’t usually feel put on the spot since you’re asking for somewhat generic contacts.

You give the person some ideas of the type of person or position you’d like to contact without making a specific

sales pitch or muddying the waters with lots of industry specific details.

Here’s an example of a center of influence pitch: “Hi. My name is GHI. I’m a CPA with Big CPA Firm. We specialize in small business tax and accounting services. Good business contacts for me are construction companies with 50 or fewer employees, independent financial advisors and business law attorneys. We provide their clients with tailored, practical tax advice and tax filings. We have the qualifications and more than XX years of experience to help these clients manage IRS, state and other tax issues and filings.”

Again, just over 70 words. But this time, the focus is on introductions to and contacts with companies that have access to and influence over dozens, if not hundreds, of really good prospects for you. Rather than one off transactions with a series of sequential prospects, you seek to build relationships with a few centers of influence you make comfortable with you and your expertise. Then they do the hard work of identifying suitable prospects for you and making qualified referrals. Note the “pitch” only identified three categories of centers of influence.

A laundry list of services will cause the target’s eyes to glaze over.

An elevator pitch — or two or three — is something every business owner, professional or employee needs if they want their businesses or job opportunities to grow.

Janet Arrowood is founder and managing director of the Write Source, a Grand Junction-based firm that offers a range of services, including grant and proposal writing, instruction and technical writing. Reach her by email at janet.arrowood@thewritesourceinc.com. For more information, visit www.TheWriteSourceInc.com.

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RentaSpace.DiegoCorp.com

The Business Times

June 11-24, 2020

Look for opportunities, not obstacles

In a previous career, I was a professional dirt bike rider — full time salaried and sponsored. I learned early on about the importance of looking for opportunities, not obstacles.

The concept applies to just about any physical or mental challenge in which you’ll engage. Focus on where you want to be and how to efficiently get there, not bogged down by what hinders your progress.

When you fixate on obstacles, you’ll inevitably run into them and likely experience a less-favorable outcome. But when you concentrate on opportunities, you’ll strengthen your skillset and achieve success while expending fewer resources. There’ll be a Max Taylor learning curve, but the techniques will be retained and future returns increased.

Now consider what’s happened in 2020.

Not yet halfway through the year, there’ve been wildfires in Australia, a presidential impeachment trial in the United States and a crude oil price war. That’s not to mention, of course, the coronavirus pandemic. Those events have changed the world — but also afforded opportunities for those who look for them.

Zoom, the video conferencing company, found itself hosting most of the business meetings taking place worldwide in the midst of a pandemic. The number of daily meeting participants jumped from 10 million in December 2019 to 300 million in April 2020.

That’s a 30-fold increase in five months.

Zoom faced challenges during this unfathomable time of growth. By making timely decisions, investing in infrastructure and hiring more staff, the company will prosper well into the future. Zoom has become a household name because the company recognized an opportunity to gain a better market position and took advantage of it.

Who else is looking for opportunities and taking advantage of them?

There were still opportunities, though, in figuring out different ways to find inventory, market it and close on sales without showing buyers properties in person or shaking hands on deals.

In the commercial real estate industry, we’ve experienced phenomenal operational challenges by not being able to meet face to face with basically anyone for the past two months. When the product is always different, location-dependent and very much stationary, it’s difficult to complete transactions. That poses a significant obstacle.

There were still opportunities, though, in figuring out different ways to find inventory, market it and close on sales without showing buyers properties in person or shaking hands on deals.

Those seeking opportunities explored new technologies, revisited forgotten techniques and came up with new ways to conduct business remotely or virtually.

Some of these techniques and services likely will continue after the pandemic is over and strengthen the proposition when potential clients pop the question: Why you and not the competition? Obstacles lead to opportunities to make changes and improvements that might not be required in the future, but still will be valued.

Every time I ride a dirt bike, I deliberately remind myself to look for opportunities, not obstacles. Every time I broker a commercial real estate deal, I do the same thing.

Max Taylor is a commercial broker with Bray Commercial Real Estate in Grand Junction. For more information, call 241-2909 or visit www.braycommercial.com.

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June 11-24, 2020

The Business Times

Page 25

There’s relief, naturally: 10 ways to treat allergies Sneezing in public can draw some interesting looks these days. But it is, after all, a time of year that comes with allergens galore.

Environmental allergens include pollen and mold as well as dust mites, mice and pets. Allergens constitute not only a nuisance, but also a serious health issue. Life-threatening allergic reactions called anaphylaxis can result from exposure to everything from foods and insect venoms to drugs and latex and require serious medical interventions.

Symptoms vary by allergy and individual.

Seasonal or environmental allergies can Patti Reece cause coughing, itching, runny noses, sneezing and watery eyes.

Conventional treatments for allergies include allergen immunotherapy, medications and nasal sprays and washes.

Because of the side effects of many medications, though, you might find natural approaches more effective. Here are 10 natural solutions to try: n Manage stress: Stress hormones affect your immune system and worsen seasonal allergies. Meditation, self-care and managing your schedule offer great ways to alleviate stress. Regular exercise is a great stress reducer, too. n Keep your nose clean: Cleanse your nasal passages with a neti pot or sinus irrigator. Because pollens stick to mucus membranes, this could offer almost instant relief. n Take herbal remedies: Certain herbs function like antihistamines in blocking the release of histamines. One of the best is alfalfa. The roots of the alfalfa plant burrow deep to reach minerals inaccessible to other plants. The taproot reaches down as deep as 20 feet, searching out nutrients and minerals from deposits in the soil, while the leaves contain chlorophyll, an essential component of photosynthesis.

Allergens constitute not only a nuisance, but also a serious health issue. Life-threatening allergic reactions called anaphylaxis can result from exposure to everything foods to insect venoms to drugs.

Choose a brand of alfalfa free of bacteriocides, fungicides, growth regulators or synthetic hormones. n Try acupuncture: A treatment plan can be developed to relieve the acute symptoms of allergies while also addressing underlying imbalances within the body. n Visit a chiropractor: Chiropractic care permits the immune system to function more effectively — something all allergy sufferers need — by releasing stress on the nervous system. A nervous system free of stress functions more efficiently. n Do a healthy cleanse: The liver is a great mediator of inflammation in the body. When the liver works overtime metabolizing alcohol, medications, processed foods and stress, allergies can flare up. A healthy seven-day cleanse two or three times a year can address not only allergies, but also cravings, focus, sleep and weight. A good combination of herbs in a cleanse include milk thistle; extracts of artichoke, dandelion, schisandra, reshi mushroom and tumeric; and powders of alfalfa, anise seed, blue malva flower, buckthorn bark, fennel seed and rhubarb root.

There are products that contain all of these in one tablet. n Take probiotics: Many studies link the presence of beneficial bacteria in the gut to reduced incidence of allergies. Probiotics can stimulate the production of immune enhancing substances. A good probiotic should

be tested to survive harsh stomach acids and deliver live bacteria to the lower intestine. Choose a brand that delivers 10 billion CFUs with four bacterial strains, including the powerhouse bifidobacterium lactis HN019, which has been proven in clinical studies to support both digestive and immune health. n Clean the house: I can’t stress this step enough. I addressed in a previous column the adverse effects of using chemical cleaners. A clean house is imperative to reducing allergy symptoms, but not at the expense of your health.

Find cleaners that are non-toxic and safe. Vacuum regularly, change air filters, change pillowcases twice a week, clean bookshelves and such other dust collectors as vents. n Address pet problems: If your allergies are severe, this could force a hard choice if you also love pets. Animal dander and saliva are common allergens for many people.

If you decide to keep your pets inside, don’t let them in your bedroom. Bathe them often. n Inhale some steam: This simple trick can unstuff a stuffy nose and help you breathe easier. Hold your head over a warm — but not too hot — bowl or sink full of water and place a towel over your head to trap the steam.

You also can sit in the bathroom with a hot shower running.

These are a few of the ways to reduce or eliminate your allergy symptoms and keep you feeling better during allergy season.

Patti Reece owns Shaklee For the Health of It in Grand Junction She’s used an educational-based approach to help thousands of people create healthier lives both physically and financially. She specializes in online business training. She’s available for free consultations.

Reach her at 260-4839, patti@pattireece.com or www.PattiReece.com.

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Contributors Opinion Bold for 2015 I’m 10 predictions percent to 15 percent sure A newup,year affords Listen or run the risk you’ll Business Briefs find 99 percent right on this more likemenot-so-bold repeats of missed opportunities a new opportunity Business People Almanac to meet local needs THE he BUSINESS usiness T T Times IMES

PAGE age 26 22

I’ve always considered myself a good listener. I’m a listener by trade, in fact.

A big part of my job is to pose questions and listen to the answers. It’s crucial not only in accurately gathering and reporting information, but also discerning when even more important information might be available for the asking.

I long ago lost an track of how many I went A new year almost always brings opportunity for times a fresh start into and an interview expecting one thing and coming away with something renewed ambition to do things better. almost better. Because I was carefully In business, thatdifferent usuallyand boils downalways to providing customers better products listening, I was prepared to steer the interview onprocess a new course. and services faster and at lower cost than competitors.

Part of the must As curious to journalists discover, everyone has need a compelling include listening to customers determine what they actually and thenstory to tell.all, Few tell them lacktoofoffer someone to listen. meeting that need. After it does littlefor good the latest and greatest if I’m not bragging here so much as asserting the importance nobody actually wants what you’re selling. of listening. about guy Junction who said Area his wife Just like the businesses that Consider belong tothe thejoke group, thethe Grand complained he starts had only faults: Hewith didn’t listen ... and of Chamber of Commerce invariably out two the new year a reassessment something else. and how well they match with members the services and resources it provides All kidding aside, there’s nothing funny about people PhilJeff Castle needs.

Franklin, the new chairman of the chamber board of directors, who don’t listen.

It’s not only rude, but also costly.

Costly for personifies this approach in describing what he considers his role for the coming business owners and managers in terms discouraging alsoIt’s costly year: listen to members, determine theirofneeds and thenemployees. meet those But needs. a in terms missing out onispotentially role withofwhich Franklin familiar aslucrative market opportunities. president of Bank of Colorado.

There’s no franchise ideas.

Employees who make products, deliver The process will takeonongood a more structured approach in what the chamber services and interact with customers have some of the best ideas of all.

It’s likely the plans as the resumption of a program aptly called Listening to Business. Under they’ve about waysparticipate to improveinexisting and to services as barriers well as to program,thought business owners in-depthproducts interviews identify develop newother products and services.

It’s just a matter of asking them. And then, for growth and problems they encounter. goodness sake,year listening.

The new offers a good time to join the proverbial club.

Some mistakenly believe listening is matter of keepingTimes? quiet while As an people advertiser or reader, whatgood do you need from the Business others talk, nodding occasionally and then repeating what’s been said.

Others don’t While business journals traditionally gather and report the relevant news to even pretend to listen anyisn’t more.necessarily They’re more engagedstreet. with their phones. readers, communication a one-way That’s especially true as Business Review analyzed nearly 3,500 WebThe sitesHarvard and e-mail make the dialogue moreinformation convenient from than ever. participants in a development program for managers identify were of Good publications don’t exist in a vacuum.

They to respond towhat the needs perceived as the differences between great and average listeners. advertisers and readers. They provide what’s needed.

According theneed? findings, good listening isn’t so much about shutting up So what dotoyou whileIsothers talk, but posing questionsthat thatwould provoke insight and discovery.

Good there additional news coverage help keep you informed about listening also affords as a supportive experience and would resultsbe in interesting suggestionsorand local business developments?

Are there features that different consider topics. useful? Isways theretoadvice thatideas wouldand make your jobs a little easier?

Marcus Straub, a business coach operates It’s equally important to ask whatand youconsultant don’t need.who With limitedLife timeistoGreat Coaching in Grand Junction, ably asserts in his columns in the Business produce content and limited space in which to publish it, would time andTimes space be successful business operations depend on effective communication. better devoted to something else?

The problem, says,What’s is people don’t listen understand. They listen What’s good? Straub What isn’t? needed?

What to isn’t? to reply.

They think about how they’llComment respond, online the advice they’ll offerTimes or howWeb to Let us know.

Send us an e-mail. on the Business shift the conversation to their experiences or perspectives.

They’re missing the site at www.thebusinesstimes.com. You could even write an old-fashioned letter to very thingifpeople mostfeedback, — to feelboth heard and understood. the editor you’d value like. Your positive and negative, is valued and no expertconsidered. on listening. I don’t even play one on TV. But as a journalist, I will I’m be carefully can attest the value ofare listening andof what people realize someone Goodtopublications the result nothappens only thewhen efforts of their staffs, but also really does want to hear what they have to say. suspect most business owners and collaborative efforts involving advertisers and Ireaders. managers experience the same thing.weIf want they don’t, should listen.

Like any other good business, to listenmaybe to ourthey customers, find out what they need and then meet those needs.

Phil It’s Castle is editor the Business Reach him at phil@thebusinesstimes.com a new year. of Please help us Times. to do so. or 424-5133. ✦ F

THE BUSINESS TIMES

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

Publisher/Owner: Craig R. Hall

Editor: Phil Castle

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

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

Copyright © 2015 — AllCopyright rights reserved. © 2020 — All rights reserved.

Yep, I’m about to do something I rarely do inIt’s mythat columns: lump and time of yearDemocrats when Republicans together.

But as I roll,abound. some in resolutions and prognostications aMy good way, some in applied a bad way. favorite saying to New Year’s Despiteisallinthe resolutions saying they’re basically a political social to break the first week bunch ofand promises ills I’ve livedAnd through of January. while I won’t predict a in my almost 59 trips whole lot, I can pretty much accurately around the things sun, I’ve nail a few that without question always maintained one will make the news.

You will see these are belief: percent of pretty, 99 well, predictable: Americans think and ■ Prediction one: feel thewill same There beway some 99 of theevent, time. sortpercent of weather We all want freedom, natural disaster or Craig Hall to make life better heinous occurrence for ourselves andwill our where someone children and liveand outsay our own version of the be interviewed American dream in peace and prosperity. the following: “I’ve We also share the same outrage over the ills never seen anything of society, likeour that in myincluding racism, violence and breaking law. lifetime.”

It’s the as if thisAnd we all want to Craig work to make society betterHall by persontogether is a required addressing fixing those ills. attendee atand every news So why are While so many of my liberal reporting event.

I understand most friends when sit across the people’ssurprised perspective canwe indeed be limited table coffeewithin, or a beer andown talkpersonal about by, orover contained their our lives, dreams andmuch hopes? experiences, it is too to ask to Because, Hillary Clinton and Joe consult some sadly, historical perspective before Biden believed correct.

Let’s take them sayingare such a thing?

Yes, this response can at theirtoword theyBut saywhen there are folks apply somewhen events. it comes in country gang of deplorables, to our weather andwho’re naturala disasters, I’m pretty just there are 10 percent 15 percent of sureasthis is simply history to repeating itself.

Americans whofor aren’t very good people. of Same as it has millions and millions We seeMore examples on TV the daily, destroying years. important, planet made it! our cities in our latest, uniquely American What didn’t were certain species.

How’s tragedy.

And if we’re honest, we saw that for perspective? plenty the latest whatitoccurred ■ before Prediction two: of When comes toina Minneapolis.

I knowthat the occurs percentages aren’t crime or something between exact or add But stay with me. at all humans, the up. other required attendee like to expand Joe’s and Hillary’s newsI’d reporting events on is the person who feelings applywe’re themjust to athe group to says this:and “They nicest which caninall There people,we and noidentify: way didpoliticians.

I see something certainly is a 10 percent to 15No percent gang of like this coming.”

Exactly. one does them deplorable. is something most who of thearetime when it This comes to upon whichand Democrats and Republicans can neighbors acquaintances.

People should agree.

I’ll be honest goon onefrom step time further. be surprised at whatand goes to Itime could without 10 percent to 15 percent in do their neighborhoods, towns and of Republicans easy peasy.

So I know for a fact with people they know because people are Democrats agree. good. And can for the times that they shouldn’t To have— ourlike open, honest discussion be shocked with politicians, repeat over coffeeand or aterrorists beer, we — need to takethe offenders where’s an open, honest look“This at the doesn’t source ofsurprise the interview that says, political me in theproblems least.” in America. The truth is most■ Democrats with Donald Trump Predictionagree three: Something good in wanting country open,and people will happenthe economically, the going back to workwill and take stopping government credittheforviolence it. The most in our cities.

Thisisisn’t to bepeople recent example gas something prices, where ashamed of. It’s morecredit a recognition of what’s ask me why I won’t the president for made America warts and all. As for low gas prices.great, My answer is simple: Republicans, we sure couldthe do price more of to fight Government never makes the causes of inner-city and societal ills something goour down and simply takes credit by theGas Constitution the ideals for upholding good news. pricing isand subject to our founders to Now be self-evident. many global knew factors. there are If you’danswers like a picture of the problems government to addressing some of we have today,prices look atstable the photo of kneeling them to keep for Americans, politicians pandering for as always, but our government hasvotes noneand, of them in making everything political —inallplace whilein the place. The only things it has

June 15-28, 11-24, 2015 2020 JANUARY

culturally appropriating Kente cloth stoles — in therun U.S.always Capitol.

While some might not long hurt consumers.

Another like ofunemployment those politiciansreaches were Democrats. fact it, is all that a certain And the the same Democrats who’ve levelthey’re based on economy.

And while done the nothing to improve illsthe of number inner cities for a government might the brag is low, half century or likely more, all telling scores it’s more than thewhile government did of Americans theirthat problems arebeing and who something what to cause number lowto blame. was pandering the lowest level, — andThis not in a good way.atConversely, when and I’m glad to see Democrats calling business picks up, other it’s because the people them out fortoit.buy widgets who were not who need Regardless party, when you promise buying widgets of because the economy was to fix everything, fix nothing while contracting due toyou natural (or unnatural, usually making everything worse.

Whether government caused) reasons, decided we it’s roads, racism, The budget deficits, better buyschools, some widgets. government “defending” Constitution had nothing the to do with this. or any other political promise, we tend elect and re-elect ■ Prediction four: Intokeeping with the 10 percent to 15 percent things the government does,ofI Americans predict the who promisewill everything whilethe proving theyto government manipulate numbers aren’t good the at solving anything.

Yes, make very the claim economy is getting Republicans pander andhard promise.

But the to better because of how it is working harsh reality is Democrats are inNow charge help all of ustoday “working Americans.” where America’s problems and the you might say, “Craig, youare always saystates this still in President shutdown.Obama And these are problems for about because you don’t ALL Americans. like him.”

You’re right in a sense. I don’t where 99Ipercent knowHere’s the man, butmy what know ofcomes him and into play and Iwhat when I talk his thinking, don’tI find like it or him onetoiota. my liberal might be one or Before youfriends. go off, There however, I didn’t like two items Bush upon and which disagree — and President hiswe bailouts, stimulus those areabandoning usually notthe full,free irreconcilable and his market to save disagreements, of him the free market.just Andpercentages I don’t know disagreement.

And those disagreements either. What the government does, and the result mainly from put the intoeconomy. place only thing it can do,laws is hurt outside boundaries Unless itthedoes nothing of or the put Constitution criminals in by 10 of percent to 15 with percent of nothing jailthose instead partnering them, deplorable people in government.

I see this the government does will help. Always look for We all pretty much wantsays the at ittwo thisreasons. way, whatever the government same thing,whatever and politicians wantofcontrol. it is doing, the name the law it From my perspective, is passing, or whatever theliberals, name or goal of conservatives, Democrats, Republicans the bureaucracy it is presenting to the and everyone and every partyopposite in between want people, expect the polar to occur.

America open, peaceful and free I guess what I’m saying is once that again.

Everyone onetime of ustotoget some perhaps it’s outpercentage of our own partakes in going to church, perspective.

There’s plentymovies, of history graduations, weddings,research funerals,out family books and historical there to reunions, voting, festivals, favorite stores, begin to understand that all of this has travel destinations, parks,itschool and college, happened before. And will again, meetings andtopic to work or play or in the freedom whether the is people government. to which allrecommendation have inalienable rights.

And The we best is to find yet who took them Yep, the 10 percent some books or tryaway? that whole Google to 15 percent politicianson from thing.

There’sofadeplorable lot of information the aGreat virus Depression. from which we’re slowly The truth is discovering it wasn’t we never needed lockdown. even a good oneauntil the government got In addition, have riots of in research cities over involved.

There’swe also plenty societal ills all of warm us want solved where on the medieval period when the 10 percent 15 percent deplorable planet was to much warmerofthan today with politicians promising to fix well a whole lothave less been people (and warmer them after election. don’tyep, know beforeelection man was here at all).IAnd about I’d rather to solve them peopleyou, havebut been killingtry other surprised across table history with 99was percent you, not peopleasince firstofwritten. by re-electing the 10 percentwill to 15 percent Maybe some research help stop who’ve proven theyOtherwise, can’t. all of these trends. we’ll be And the last thing want islike us it in saying we’ve never seenthey anything having coffee Thinkway. about that. our lives.

Andor nota beer. in a good Craig Craig Hall Hall is is owner owner and and publisher publisher of of the the Business Times. Reach Reach him him at at 424-5133 424-5133 Business Times. or or publisher@thebusinesstimes. publisher@thebusinesstimes.com.

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June 11-24, 2020

The Business Times

Page 27

Low COVID cases affirm Effects of pandemic provide reason to assert rights economic teaching moments Marilyn M. Barnewall

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis has publicly admitted — to his credit — the statistics he was given by health authorities are wrong.

About 33 percent fewer Coloradans have been stricken with COVID-19 than reported.

Given the statistics for the West Slope, it’s evident why a lot of people think closing down businesses is a Democrat plot to harm the booming economy the Trump administration built since 2017. The thought goes something like this. Trump’s greatest strength is the economy. Harm the economy, and you harm Trump. Democrats win in 2020.

Mesa County has a population of nearly 153,000, but as of June 5 reported 62 positive coronavirus cases and no deaths. In six other counties in the 3rd Congressional District in Colorado, the population totals 327,600.

There have been a combined 712 coronavirus cases and 32 deaths in those counties.

Do these numbers include the 33 percent to which Gov. Polis referred? It’s impossible to tell. Either way, it’s ridiculous. People have been put through the kinds of trauma over this? Thousands of businesses closed.

By one estimate, Colorado will lose more than 500,000 jobs because of COVID-19.

You’d have to be naive or uninformed to think these statistics justify the pain and psychological trauma. Do you realize how many parents that impacts? People with young children to feed and mortgages to pay?

Keep in mind, too, governments get money from taxes on businesses and wages to pay for schools, fire departments and police and to help those unable to support themselves.

Truly, Dr. Anthony Fauci’s cure for COVID-19 has proven worse than the disease. We knew by mid-April the best way to fight COVID-19 was to shelter the elderly and let those under 60 get back to work.

One life lost to the annual flu is one too many if that person is someone about whom you care. Just because someone calls it a coronavirus rather than the flu doesn’t change that. The fact is, however, we’re born and we die. That’s the life cycle and why we should appreciate each breath we draw.

Let’s look at another cause of death in Colorado and compare the two and political reactions to both.

There were 377 more people killed in auto accidents in just the first two months of 2020 than in the same span in 2019. I don’t hear anyone demanding a ban on automobiles or that garages be shut down — or car dealerships for that matter.

Some businesses have resisted – or tried to resist – the tyrannical demands of unreasonable government. Those who resist have been insulted by people who believe we must comply with all government requests and demands. They think if you don’t comply, something is wrong with you. There are many examples on the West Slope.

Thanks to Rifle restaurant owner Lauren Boebert for her stand against the tyranny of repressive government. Thank God there are still Americans who not only know their constitutional rights, but

also put everything on the line for them.

Boebert fights not only for her rights. She fights for all of us.

Boebert took intelligent precautions to keep her customers at Shooters Grill in Rifle safe from COVID-19. She did not, however, willingly give her rights or those of her customers over to government policies that aren’t granted by either the federal or state constitutions. She kept Shooters Grill in Rifle open while being threatened by the government, then was closed down and taken to court, Boebert will face U.S. Rep. Scott Tipton for the Republican nomination in a primary election to be held June 30.

This primary and the 2020 election aren’t about what anyone supports. They’re about what people — including Tipton —achieve The farmers I know tell few, if any, “gosh things sure improved this year” stories. Tipton has had more than 10 years to improve the lives of those in the agriculture industry, including those who live in our beautiful valley. Has he succeeded?

It appears the entire Democrat message in 2020 is, “We’ll do anything, no matter how destructive, to the people or the country.

We must reclaim the presidency so we can once again go back to abusing our power in a politically correct way. (We get to define what is politically correct). Then things will be calm again because we’ll shut up and, as everyone knows, Republicans don’t ever make noise about anything.”

How many business owners or their former employees will vote for a Democrat this year? I’m an unaffiliated voter. Who am I supposed to vote for? Democrats who think it’s okay to ruin the lives of thousands of Coloradans over deaths that, based on the numbers, don’t justify the closures?

Or should I vote for Republicans who have no backbone? They don’t even publicly support their own party’s president. It doesn’t matter if they don’t personally like him.

The people like him, and that’s why they elected him. Elected officials are supposed to represent the people, not personal preferences.

I’m voting for Lauren Boebert in the June 30 primary. She sounds smart. And she’s gutsy — or she would have never faced down Beto O’Rourke. When the presidential candidate said he was going to take everyone’s guns, she told him, “Hell no you’re not.”

I’ve done some pretty gutsy things myself in my demand for truth from government in my 83 years, but I think Lauren Boebert beat me on that one. And she supports the independent business at the heart of our economy.

Marilyn MacGruder Barnewall started a career in investigative journalism in Wyoming before working in the banking industry and then operating a consulting company. She’s written 13 books and taught banking at the university level.

When she became disabled in 1993, she returned to journalism.

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In the middle of a pandemic, rarely is anything identified as a teaching moment. After this virus crisis is positioned in the rear view mirror, however, there will be an acknowledgment of lessons learned.

Coronavirus has affected every segment of society in the United States and around the world. Schools were as ill-equipped to cope with these challenging times as any other industry.

Teachers had to be trained to develop online lessons. Students had to develop habits to facilitate online learning. Administrators had to figure out how to run districts whose requirements were for face-to-face contact with students and staff.

The study of economics isn’t even a graduation requirement in many school districts. Yet some of the greatest lessons to be learned from this pandemic will be economic ones.

Innovation is defined as a new method, idea or product.

Phyllis To transform education from a brick and mortar mindset to Hunsinger online learning was nothing less than innovative. Throughout the history of the world, innovation has been the key to increased productivity and economic growth. Change comes through innovation, and education has been forced to become more innovative in the face of COVID-19.

Another basic economic principle in evidence is scarcity exists and doesn’t go away. Because resources are limited, people must make choices. This principle was on display during the pandemic when shortages of all manner of items occurred almost overnight. The run on basic household goods and food items left grocery store shelves empty and shoppers frustrated.

Consumers shouldn’t have experienced a scarcity thanks to a free market system where decisions are made at a local level and actions taken quickly to meet consumer needs. But government officials at all levels enacted edicts in the name of protecting citizens from spreading the virus. The result was an upheaval of the free market system. Outside forces making rules and regulations without regard to market structures disrupt the natural ebb and flow of economies capable of responding to demands for and supplies of goods, services and resources. Scarcity always exists.

But in light of the disruption of free market forces, scarcity is on full parade.

There are other economic lessons to be learned not only in education, but also in business, industry and government. Understanding economic principles helps citizens make more informed choices. Economically savvy citizens recognize the importance of private enterprise and understand a healthy economy requires all able-bodied individuals, not just a few, to work and pay taxes.

A good place to start is to teach young people economic principles. Bring economic education back to the classroom. Economic education provides the knowledge and tools to empower students to manage resources. The leaders of the future must know how a free market economic system works to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past.

Phyllis Hunsinger is founder of the Freedom & Responsibility Education Enterprise Foundation in Grand Junction. The foundation provides resources to students and teachers in Western Colorado to promote an understanding of economics, financial literacy and free enterprise. For more information, visit www.free-dom.us.com. A former teacher, principal and superintendent, Hunsinger wrote “Down and Dirty: A ‘How To’ Math Book.” Reach Hunsinger by email at phyllis@free-dom.us.com.

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Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac The Business Times

n GRAND JUNCTION-BASED REAL ESTATE FIRM MAKES LATEST LIST OF TOP 1,000 BROKERAGES

Coldwell Bankers Distinctive Properties based in Grand Junction is once again included in the Mega 1000, a listing of the top 1,000 real estate brokerages in the United States based on sales volume.

“Our inclusion in the Mega 1000 list speaks volumes about the commitment to customer service and expertise of our entire team,” said Todd Conklin, chief executive officer. “It is a reflection of our core values Todd Conklin brought to life and the dedication of each of our agents and staff to consistently delivering more than is expected.”

Coldwell Bankers Distinctive Properties ranks 410th in the 2019 listing, up from 426th in 2018. For 2019, the company reported $780 million in sales volume with 2,277 transaction sides and 259 agents.

T3 Sixty, a residential real estate consulting and research firm, publishes the Mega 1000 to Stefan Swanepoel provide accurate and comprehensive information, said Stefan Swanepoel, CEO. “Without the best data available, assumptions and decisions are flawed before they’re even made.”

Coldwell Bankers Distinctive Properties operates offices in Colorado, Idaho and Montana. For more information, visit the website at www.cbdistinctive.com. n FRUITA FARMERS MARKET SCHEDULED TO SOON RESUME AT REED PARK LOCATION The Fruita Farmers Market is scheduled to soon resume with a new location and new pandemic guidelines.

The market is set for 8:30 a.m. to noon Saturdays June 20 to Sept. 19. To promote social distancing and accommodate growth, the market ha been moved to Reed Park at 250 S. Elm St. The market will operate under guidelines established by Mesa County Public Health and the Colorado Farmers Market Association.

The market will offer online ordering and curbside pickup.

The market also accepts Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Double Up Food Bucks for payment.

Applications are still being accepted for the 2020 season for farm, craft and direct sales vendors.

For more information about the market, call the Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce at 858-3894 or visit the website located at www.fruitachamber.org/fruita-farmers-market.

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NOTEWORTHY

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

The Jesse Dryer Agency in Western Colorado has received three awards from Farmers Insurance for its business achievement and customer service.

The firm received the 2019 Agency of the Year, Farmers Specialty Agency of the Year and Farmers Financial Solutions Agency of the year.

Dryer credited customers and referrals.

“The customers are the most important part of our agency.

We would like to thank them for Jesse Dryer allowing us to help them and supporting our local business,” Dryer said. “We also owe a huge debt of gratitude to the local real estate community. We work on referrals from local Realtors and mortgage lenders, and we appreciate the opportunity to provide service to those local professionals and their clients.”

Dryer said his team deserves credit as well. “We have developed a great culture of teamwork and high performance here at the agency. Our goal is to provide customers with consistent first-class service every time they interact with us, and the team really does a great job of hitting that mark.”

Dryer is among the more than 45,000 exclusive and independent agents that provide Farmers Insurance products to more than 5 million households nationwide.

Jesse Dryer Agency operates offices at 700 Belford Ave., Suite 102, in Grand Junction and 1551 Ogden Road in Montrose. The agency offers a range of products that include auto, business, home and life insurance as well as specialty insurance and financial services.

For additional information, call 241-9474 or visit the website at www.jessedryeragency.com.

n PURE INFUSION SUITES ANNOUNCES OPENING OF GRAND JUNCTION FACILITY Pure Infusion Suites has opened an infusion facility in Grand Junction.

Located at 2478 Patterson Road, Unit 20, the facility offers patients who need medicine infusions an alternative from hospitals and medical practices, said Trey Gardner, cofounder of Pure Infusion Suites.

The facility offer a spa-like setting with powered recliners, televisions, snacks and beverages. Private suites for each patient can be set up to accommodate individual preferences.

“The safety and wellbeing of every patient is our top priority, especially during COVID-19,” Gardner said. “Our private suites limit social interactions. Our no waiting room policy also allows for patients to come in directly from their car to their suite without any other patient interactions, which is beyond important in times like these.”

Josh Tandy, chief executive officer of Pure Healthcare, said the facility also offers savings over hospital settings. “Advances in specialty pharmaceuticals have dramatically improved the lives of people suffering from auto-immune diseases and other chronic conditions. Unfortunately, when these already costly drugs are administered in a traditional hospital setting, the total cost to the health care system can be four times greater than when that same patient receives care in a dedication infusion center like Pure Infusion suites,” Tandy said.

For more information about Pure Infusion Suites, call 822-7700 or visit www.PureInfusionSuite.com. n LISTINGS ACCEPTED THOUGH JUNE 15 FOR 2020 COLORADO HAY DIRECTORY Listings will be accepted through June 15 for the 2020 edition of the Colorado Hay Directory.

Scheduled for publication in August, the directory connects producers and buyers. Listings include the type and amount of hay available and are grouped by region.

Listings cost $25. For more information, visit the website at www.coloradoagriculture.com.

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Chamber to host next quarterly membership meeting on Zoom

A. Stephenson

June 11-24, 2020

The Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce has scheduled its next quarterly membership meeting for June 15, an event that will be offered online on the Zoom platform.

The meeting is scheduled for noon. Admission is $5 for chamber members and $10 for others. To register or obtain more information, call 242-3214 or visit the website at www.gjchamber.org.

The meeting will feature a presentation by Ashlee Rich Stephenson, vice president and national political

director, political affairs and federation relations for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Stephenson also leads the voter education program for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, which includes the endorsement process for pro-business candidates for federal offices.

Stephenson will offer an update on what’s happening in Congress as well as a preview of the 2020 elections. Meeting participants will be able to submit questions through the Zoom platform.

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Barrett Kendall

Dan Savoca

Cody Carlson

n GRAND JUNCTION REAL ESTATE FIRM ANNOUNCES ADDITIONS AND DESIGNATION

Barrett Kendall and Dan Savoca have joined Bray Real Estate. Cody Carlson has joined Bray Commercial Real Estate.

Jo Carole Haxel, a broker associate with Bray Real Estate, has received designation as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist.

Kendall and Savoca joined the broker Jo Carole Haxel Grand Junction office as associates. Kendall brings to his duties four years of experience in property management. Savoca worked in the printing industry before changing to real estate.

“I always knew I wanted to get into real estate after the time I spend shadowing some Realtors for a paper I was writing as a kid,” Kendall said.

Savoca said real estate constitutes a natural fit for him.

“I care deeply about assisting my clients with their selling and purchasing needs and strive to represent them in a professional and ethical manner.”

Stewart Cruickshank, sales manager at Bray Real Estate praised the additions. He called Kendall and Savoca dedicated, caring and committed and said they offer what it takes to help their clients enjoy success in their real estate transactions.

Carlson joins Bray Commercial as a commercial broker. He brings to the position his experience working with his family operating B&H Sports.

“I have learned that working hard, staying engaged and following through are integral to any business, and I’m ready to dig into this new career path and help business owners with their commercial real estate needs,” he said.

Brian Bray, manager of Bray Commercial, welcomed Carlson. “Cory is a friendly, personable and easy person to work with, and he’s a great asset to our Bray Commercial team.”

The designation reflects Haxel’s training and experience in helping seniors with real estate transactions and related issues, including 401 (k) accounts and individual retirement accounts.

“Building my skill set and my referral resource library to better support seniors’ needs is just a natural extension and growth of my business,” she said.

For additional information about Bray Real Estate, call 242-3647 or visit www.brayandco.com. For more information about Bray Commercial, call 241-2909 or visit www.braycommercial.com.

n GRAND JUNCTION REALTOR RECEIVES GRI DESIGNATION

Dani Wright, a Realtor with Hummel Real Estate in Grand Junction, has received the Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI) designation.

Wright completed classroom instruction that covered not only the fundamentals of real estate, but also areas of specialization and addressed such topics as contract law, finance, professional standards, risk reduction Dani Wright and sales and marketing. Wright joins producers across the nation who hold the GRI designation.

Hummel Real Estate operates offices at 316 Main St. For more information, call 314-7490 or visit the website at https://hummelrealestate.com. n GRAND JUNCTION REAL ESTATE COMPANY ANNOUNCES ADDITION TO TEAM

Ashley Miles has joined Real Estate West in Grand Junction.

Miles brings to her duties experience as a small business owner for the past decade and a commitment to customer service.

“I’m constantly engaged in improving myself and my services. You can expect only honesty and integrity, Ashley Miles as that’s how I work,” Miles said.

Real Estate West operates offices at 601 N. First St. For more information, call 243-7100 or visit the website at www.realestatewestonline.com. n GRAND JUNCTION REAL ESTATE FIRM NAMES BEST-SELLING AGENT FOR MAY Toni Heiden-Moran, owner and broker of Weichert Realtors-Heiden Homes Realty, was the best-selling agent in May at the Grand Junction firm Heiden-Moran posted the highest dollar volume in sales. She also had the most closed transactions and new listings for the month.

Heiden-Moran has worked 40 years in the real estate industry and T. Heiden-Moran holds emeritus status from the National Association of Realtors.

For more information about Weichert Realtors-Heiden Homes Realty, call 245-7777 or visit www.heidenhomes.com.

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June 11 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Thursday Friends networking group, noon.

Reservations required. Call for location. 858-3894 n Business startup workshop, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Business Incubator Center, 2591 Legacy Way, Grand Junction. Admission $55. 243-5242 June 15 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Business Builders networking group, noon June 15 and 22, Ale House, 2531 N 12th St., Grand Junction.

858-3894 n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce virtual quarterly membership meeting with an online presentation by Ashlee Rich Stephenson, vice president and national political director of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, noon. Admission $5 for members, $10 for others. 242-3214 June 16 n Free informational sessions about real estate industry careers, 5:30 p.m. June 16 and July 7, Weichert Realtors-Heiden Homes Realty, 735 Rood Ave., Grand Junction. Call to RSVP. 245-7777 June 17 n Western Colorado Human Resource Association monthly program featuring a presentation by Kyle Stone on change management, 11:30 a.m., Bookcliff Country Club, 2730 G Road, Grand Junction. www.wchra.org/events. n Palisade Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m., Jet Boat Colorado, Interstate Highway 70 Exit 62, De Beque. Admission $6 in advance, $8 at the event. 464-7458 June 18 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Thursday Friends networking group, noon.

Reservations required. Call for location. 858-3894 Upcoming n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Thursday Friends networking group, noon June 25, Reservations required. Call for location. 858-3894 n Two-part webinar on how to start a business, 1 to 2:30 p.m. June 29 and 30. Admission $55 243-5242 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Thursday Friends networking group, noon July 2.

Reservations required. Call for location. 858-3894 n West Slope Startup Week free online presentations on a range of topics related to starting and growing businesses in the region, Tuesday mornings and Thursday afternoons, July 7 to 30. https://westslopestartupweek.com n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Thursday Friends networking group, noon July 9.

Reservations required. Call for location. 858-3894 F

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