The Gifts of 2020
We’re just nine days into December and I’ve already received so many gifts! Not presents wrapped in shiny paper with brightly colored ribbons, but gifts from the heart and soul of our mountain community which I’ve called home for more than 40 years. Looking back on 2020, I am grateful for the many gifts which have made this otherwise difficult year so meaningful.
- An Outstanding Fire and Rescue Team
Just five months ago, we saw the heavy smoke, shooting flames and circling aircraft as the Elephant Butte Fire threatened to destroy our neighbors’ homes and businesses. How fortunate we are that the coordinated response team of professionals on the local state and federal levels aggressively fought and conquered the blaze.
Little did we know that this was the beginning of what was to become our state’s most destructive fire season in history. I am so thankful for the bravery of our firefighters who put themselves in harm’s way to save lives, homes and businesses. They are our true heroes!
- A Creative, Resilient Business Community
I feel privileged to be part of an amazing local business community. Our merchants, restauranteurs and professional service providers inspire me with their innovation – particularly as they have found creative ways of doing business during the pandemic.
Especially hard hit, our restaurants have adapted their business models to provide online orders, curbside pick-up and delivery. I encourage everyone in the community to continue to support these locally owned eateries that have struggled mightily in the wake of COVID-19 restrictions.
Our mountain retailers in Evergreen and Conifer also are finding creative ways to meet the needs of customers. Online sales, extending hours of operation, participating in special holiday events, and arranging curbside pick-ups are some of the strategies they’re using to keep their doors open. Most significantly, their personal service and unique gift items cannot be matched by online outlets. By shopping local we not only will be purchasing the most thoughtful gifts, but we also will be investing in our area’s economic future.
Special thanks go to the Conifer and Evergreen chambers and the Evergreen Downtown Business Association for supporting businesses throughout the pandemic and for creating new events to attract patrons during the holiday season.
- Strong Relationships with Our Clients
I am grateful for our clients! I am motivated each day when I see RPM’s vision of helping people protect what matters most to them coming alive one household at a time. Our purpose is becoming a reality because we make it a priority to know each and every client on a personal basis.
RPM has the advantage of being a broker so that we can focus on customers first without having to answer to any specific insurance carrier. We have working relationships with so many national carriers, which enable us to research and identify the best insurance options for our clients.
RPM works with each client to customize an insurance plan that is responsive to their unique needs. We do not believe in one- size-fits- all templates. RPM values building relationships with our neighbors, not merely connecting through an 800 number. Taking care of our clients is something we take very personally.
- Our Team is Growing
When I decided to start my own insurance business, the brokerage model was the natural fit for me and downtown Evergreen was the ideal location in the foothills for our office. I was fortunate to launch RPM Agency with my daughter, Kristin, who is my righthand partner, licensed agent and director of operations.
Over the last three years, we have been grateful recipients of tremendous community support with so many families and businesses choosing us for their insurance needs. To continue delivering proactive, responsive service to our growing list of clients and engaging in community outreach, we have welcomed three new members to the RPM family. Customer service representatives Rene and Amanda are responding to client inquiries, collecting information about insurance needs and following up with clients on policy information. Joining us as director of marketing and communications is Cindy Lempke who will be leading our public awareness, marketing and social media activities. With our talented team in place, RPM looks forward to being an even more integral business and community partner in 2021.
On behalf of RPM, I wish you and your loved ones a safe, joyous and meaningful holiday season!
RPM article published in the Canyon Courier
