UBCNews - Business

Hey there, if you're a small business owner in Ogden — or anywhere in the Salt Lake Valley of nothern Utah — this one's for you. Because let's be real: in 2025, the online marketplace is huge. We're talking seven-point-four-trillion-dollars huge.

Your customers are already out there, browsing, comparing, buying. But are they finding you? Or are you getting buried under big brands with even bigger ad budgets?

Let's break it down. Right now, small businesses like yours are competing with national giants who've had years to build their online presence. They've got the SEO teams, the PPC ads, the digital muscle. So how do you stand out? How do you show up where your customers are looking — without spending a fortune or waiting months for results?

That's where CrossGates Digital Media's Online Visibility Media Campaigns, or OVM, come in. It's a new offering customized for businesses right here in northern Utah.

Unlike traditional SEO that can feel like a long game with no scoreboard, OVM gives you content assets that start working right away — and keep working for you long-term.

Here's how it works. You get real, strategic content about your business — distributed across six different formats, including news-style articles that highlight your expertise; blog posts that solve problems your clients care about; short videos that boost your visibility; professional slide presentations that build authority; podcast features that let your voice shine; and infographics that explain your value in seconds.

As Bob Holly, founder of CrossGates, puts it: "We create real content about your business and how you serve your ideal clients' needs. You pay once, and that content works for you for years."

In a test run right in their own backyard — Utah's competitive Silicon Slopes high tech corridor — CrossGates saw huge improvements. After putting out just 40% of their planned content, 81% of their target keywords saw much better visibility.

That's not just "more views"—that's more of the right people finding what you offer, right when they're looking for it.

And the best part? CrossGates Digital Media is local — not some giant agency juggling hundreds of accounts. Bob Holly built this company after two decades advising businesses across nine countries — and now? The team is focused on helping local businesses here in Utah rise up online.

They intentionally keep their client list small, so they can actually pay attention to you!

So if you're ready to stop being Ogden's best-kept secret, this may be your sign. Want a free, no-pressure consultation? Just click on the URL in the description.

You know, I was thinking about something interesting the other day. Did you ever realize that your car's interior might be dirtier than a public restroom?

Hey everyone! You know what really gets my blood pressure up? Finding myself stranded on a dark country road with a flat tyre. Ever been there? It's the worst, right?

In Switzerland, where architectural beauty is as much a part of the landscape as the mountains themselves, building facades quietly absorb the effects of weather, pollution, and time. Many property owners don't realize that what begins as subtle discoloration or minor organic growth can develop into serious structural issues if left unaddressed. Regular maintenance is often overlooked until problems become visible—by which point repairs typically cost significantly more than preventative care would have.

Looking for facade cleaning services in Aarau and Belp? Learn more about Fassadenmax GmbH at the link in the description.

Whether you own a charming chalet in the Alps, a historic building in Bern's Old Town, or a modern commercial property in Zürich, the unique Swiss climate presents specific challenges for building exteriors that require specialized attention.

Understanding Facade Deterioration: Switzerland's varying climate zones—from lakeside regions to alpine environments—create ideal conditions for biological growth on building surfaces. What many property owners mistake for simple aesthetic issues often indicates deeper problems that can compromise structural integrity over time.

The most common misconception? That dark streaks and discoloration on facades are permanent stains or paint failure. In reality, these marks typically result from organic growth like algae, fungi, and moss that gradually colonize exterior surfaces. These organisms don't just look unsightly—they actively break down building materials by retaining moisture and secreting acids that erode protective coatings.

In alpine regions, buildings face the additional challenge of extreme temperature fluctuations. When moisture penetrates tiny cracks in facades and freezes, the expansion can widen these fissures, accelerating deterioration. Meanwhile, urban buildings in cities like Zürich, Basel, and Geneva contend with pollution deposits that may trap moisture and provide nutrients for biological growth.

Beyond Aesthetics: The True Value of Facade Maintenance: Regular facade cleaning isn't merely about maintaining appearances—it's about protecting one of your most significant investments. Consider these critical benefits:

Structural protection: Removing biological growth prevents moisture retention that can lead to material breakdown and costly repairs.

Professional vs. DIY: Making the Right Choice for Your Building.

The Dangers of Incorrect Techniques: Using excessive pressure when cleaning can force water into building materials, causing internal damage. Many historic Swiss buildings feature delicate exterior details that require gentle cleaning methods. Inappropriate chemical cleaners can damage both the facade and surrounding landscaping while contributing to environmental pollution.

Material-Specific Considerations: Different facade materials require specialized treatment approaches:

Natural stone: A common feature in historic buildings, natural stone requires gentle, pH-balanced cleaning solutions that won't erode the surface.

The Professional Advantage: Professional facade cleaning services bring several advantages:

Comprehensive assessment: Experts can identify underlying issues that a layperson might not be able to spot.

Swiss Expertise in Building Care: The Fassadenmax Approach.

Their three-step process begins with a biodegradable treatment that loosens organic growth and contaminants. This is followed by low-pressure water cleaning that removes buildup without forcing moisture into the building material. Finally, a protective coating helps prevent future biological colonization.

"Our approach combines precision, efficiency, and environmental responsibility," explains a Fassadenmax spokesperson. "We use technology to reach every part of a facade, allowing for thorough cleaning without damaging surfaces or requiring repainting."

This systematic methodology addresses a key concern for Swiss property owners: sustainability. By collecting wastewater and using biodegradable cleaning solutions, advanced providers minimize environmental impact while extending the life of building materials.

The Swiss Approach to Building Longevity: Switzerland's traditional approach to construction and maintenance has always emphasized quality and longevity over quick fixes. This cultural value aligns perfectly with proactive facade maintenance.

One satisfied client noted: "Excellent work and professional service! From the initial consultation to completion, the team was always professional, friendly and committed. The quality of workmanship is excellent and our house now looks like new!"

The long-term perspective is particularly important in Switzerland, where buildings are expected to last for generations. Regular maintenance aligns with this cultural value, ensuring that architectural heritage is preserved while adapting to modern environmental challenges.

How do you know when your building's facade needs attention? Watch for these warning signs: Visible discoloration or streaking; algae or moss growth, particularly on north-facing surfaces; flaking paint or surface materials; deterioration around windows and other openings; and visible erosion of mortar or sealants.

If you're noticing signs of facade deterioration or simply want to establish a preventative maintenance plan, Fassadenmax offers consultations to assess your building's specific needs. Taking action before visible damage occurs is the most cost-effective strategy for long-term building care.

For more information about facade cleaning and maintenance options throughout Switzerland, visit the link in the description.

You ever get the feeling that big payment processors are charging you way too much—and treating you like you're just another account number in their system? You're not imagining it.

But for small business owners in New Jersey, that's starting to change. There's a local company called Seaview Merchant Services, and they're flipping the script by offering full-on payment and business solutions without the corporate cold shoulder.

Let's talk about it. Running a small business in Jersey? You already know the hustle is real. Between fierce competition, tight margins, and trying to keep your head above the digital curve, the last thing you need is some faceless company quietly eating into your profits with sneaky processing fees.

Here's where Seaview comes in. They're a division of TEN26 LLC, and they're bringing some seriously powerful tools to the table—think credit card processing, CRM, and even digital marketing—but with the kind of personalized service you never get from the big guys.

And the best part? You don't have to sacrifice affordability for quality.

Let's talk real numbers. Processing fees can hit anywhere from 1.5% to 3.5% per transaction. That adds up fast—especially when the New Jersey market is projected to hit one-point-nine-billion-dollars in card processing this year. That's a lot of revenue... and a lot of opportunity to either save or bleed money.

So what's the move? Seaview offers dual pricing—an option where you can show different prices for cash and card payments. Customers get transparency, and you get control over those fees. If that's not your thing, you can go the traditional route or explore a cash discount program. Point is—you've got options, and they'll help you find the one that fits your biz.

Seaview's also got hardware from brands like Dejavoo, Pax, and Clover, plus virtual gateways like Authorize.net and NMI, full QuickBooks integration, and even crypto acceptance if you're fancy like that. And yes, they've got fraud protection and chargeback mitigation baked right in.

And it's not just about tech. It's about people. Seaview was founded by Vin and Colleen Curto, who've been in the payments space for over 20 years. They're not some rep you'll never meet. They're your neighbors. And they care about making sure you feel seen and supported.

So if you're tired of paying too much, getting ghosted by support teams, or just want a payment setup that's actually built for you, maybe it's time to give Seaview a look. You can check them out by clicking on the URL in the description.

Flat-rate credit processors are great, until they're not. Processors like Square make it easy to start accepting payments quickly—there's no complex setup, no hidden fees, and predictable per-swipe charges. For new or low-volume businesses, that simplicity is a win.

But once you’re processing $50,000 or more a month, that convenience can start to cost you. Payment experts at Seaview Merchant Services say this is one of the most overlooked leaks in a business’s bottom line. “Flat-rate pricing doesn’t adjust for volume,” they note. “It works early on, but past a certain point, you’re just overpaying.”

According to the National Federation of Independent Business, credit card processing fees are now one of the top five costs cutting into small business profitability.

And with card payments now dominating how customers pay, flat-rate fees can quietly chip away at your margins, especially as your volume grows.

Flat-rate processors charge a single fixed percentage on every transaction, regardless of volume or transaction type. That makes budgeting easier when you're small. But it also means you’re paying the same rate at $500K/month that you did at $5K/month.

Scalable payment systems, on the other hand, evolve as your transaction volume grows. That means:

Transparent pricing based on actual transaction types (often through interchange-plus models).

Hardware flexibility, with options like Clover, Dejavoo, or PAX, depending on how and where you take payments.

Cross-platform capability, whether you're selling online, in-store, or both.

Hands-on onboarding, staff training, and dedicated support when you need it—not just self-serve help docs.

For many business owners, switching processors sounds like a hassle. But it doesn’t have to be.

Most providers, including those Seaview Merchant Services works with, offer step-by-step transition support: They will help you compare options, plan the transition, train your team, and set up your new system.

When it’s done right, switching can be smooth and surprisingly quick, and the cost savings often speak for themselves.

Not Sure If You’ve Outgrown Your Processor? Ask Yourself:

Are processing fees quietly cutting into your margins?

Are you stuck with limited hardware or generic support?

Could transparent pricing and more flexibility help you scale smarter?

If the answer is yes to any of the above, exploring scalable payment processing options could make a meaningful difference, not just in cost, but in how confidently you scale.

Need a place to start? Seaview Merchant Services offers a no-obligation consultation that walks you through your options and how much you could save by making the switch. Go to the website in the description to schedule yours.

Millions of people have great ideas for products or services but when they take the plunge and start their own business, most are not successful. Businesses live and die on leadership and yet, too many entrepreneurs do not take the time to think about what it means to be a good leader.

If you want to make a meaningful impact as an entrepreneur, the first thing most successful business experts, corporate execs, keynote speakers, life coaches, and other high-level professionals will tell you to do is work on your mindset.

What are your core values? Do you value innovation, honesty, sustainability, or diversity? These are the questions every entrepreneur must think about.

Authentic leadership happens when you center your core values in every project or operation.

When faced with the inevitable challenges that come with running a business like financial pressures and unpredictable market shifts, these core values will be your anchor, ensuring each decision you make aligns with your purpose.

While profit margins, sales, customer retention, and other key performance indicators are important for any business, it is just as important to look beyond traditional business models and metrics.

Business leaders who prioritize self honesty, emotional intelligence, transparency, and cultural understanding are at a huge advantage. They understand their target market’s needs, adapt more easily to socio-political changes, inspire loyalty in both employees and customers, and much more.

One of the most valuable mindsets a business leader can have is a thirst for knowledge. No matter how much experience you have, you should always strive to learn about the latest technology, business strategies, industry news, etc.

Trevor Muir, a renowned leadership coach, keynote speaker, entrepreneur, and poet, will be joining the NXC Podcast Network as the host of the upcoming “Lean in to Lead” podcast, an informative and entertaining episode on authentic, meaningful, and influential business leadership.

“Lean in to Lead” will look beyond traditional business models and metrics, encouraging business leaders to prioritize emotional intelligence, transparency, cultural understanding, and the real-world impact of their operational processes. The podcast will also feature real-life stories and practical business strategies that you can apply to your own independent enterprise.

Click the link in the description for more.

Booking an Uber is easy - getting compensation after an Uber accident is less so. But it used to be even more difficult, with loopholes allowing insurance protections to slip through the cracks. Not anymore, though - and expert attorneys like Auto Accident Law Group are celebrating. Regulatory changes have made it more straightforward to hold negligent Uber drivers accountable… and recover damages from their insurers.

That means lawyers are readier than ever to provide much-needed representation for anyone who’s been injured on the road by an Uber driver. After all, any car accident can leave you facing ruinous medical bills together with a lengthy insurance fight in pursuit of compensation. It only makes sense that you’ll want experienced attorneys in your corner.

Uber cars aren’t alone - far from it. Did you know that NYC saw around 4000 Uber-related accidents in 2023 alone? And Uber’s operations have only grown in scale since then. We can now see these vehicles alongside the city’s famous yellow taxicabs and personal vehicles alike, adding more and more cars to the roads and heightening the risk of collisions in the process. No wonder you got into an accident.

In the old days, victims of crashes would need to battle exhaustively for legal reimbursement - a prospect that was, until recently, all the more challenging.

Why? It all came down to the lack of personal insurance held by drivers. Insurance matters were once largely unenforced by Uber due to the company’s designation of its drivers as independent contractors. No question, that made subsequent accident claims much more complicated.

But things have changed in recent years.

Uber is now mandated to carry insurance policies for drivers. These can cover accidents depending on the driver's on-duty status. Yet, identifying all liable parties remains complex. Liability might extend to other negligent drivers, pedestrians, or cyclists.

Did you catch those last caveats? That’s exactly why victims still need informed legal representation, even today. Luckily, many attorneys have made it a priority to research Uber regulations and ridesharing technicalities, legally speaking. That allows them to remove such barriers from damage claims while targeting substantial compensation on behalf of injured clients just like you.

Lawyers can win such sums by either negotiating with liable Uber drivers (or their insurers) or by arguing in front of an NYC judge in a trial setting. Worried about the costs of such representation? No need. You’ll find that many attorneys offer a work-on-contingency policy, which means you don’t pay a dime unless you win your case.

And if you want to win, you’ll need an attorney who knows their way around Uber accident claims - which firms like Auto Accident Law Group can offer you. Click the link in the description now.

No, it's not just you: legacy brands really are dropping like flies. Kodak, Blackberry, MySpace, and even retailers like JC Penny once dominated as multi-billion dollar industry players, and are now either totally defunct or significantly reduced to the point of irrelevance. But how, you ask? What ties these names together? I'll tell you: A failure to innovate in the face of change.

Here's the thing, though. In a business setting, one where so many people are banking on the success of a given venture, the pressure is very much on to make sure that no rash actions are taken that could further damage or even sink the brand. It's a Catch-22 situation; robust change could mean the death of the business, but a failure to make changes will certainly result in the same outcome. What are those in the business world to do, then?

Thad Barnes, a business leader in the marketing world and creator of the "Ready, Fire, Aim" podcast had plenty of thoughts on this topic that he was willing to share. He simplifies the situation thus: hesitation and overanalyzing leads to missed opportunities and tepid growth in the world of business. Those who succeed most often do so because of a willingness to take risks and make snap decisions, unhindered by the need for certainty.

Barnes and his contemporaries underscore the fact that perfectionism has been the death of many great up-and-coming businesses, especially in the tech space. Startups, however, are often in a unique position to move forward with new ideas even if they are not guaranteed to work, which they posit is why the industry is such a hotbed for innovation.

The idea is not to proceed without caution and take risks cavalierly and without thought, however; rather, Barnes encourages a data-driven approach to business, allowing leaders and innovators to make informed decisions on the fly. The ability to combine data and intuition, he suggests, is what makes a great business leader.

These ideas do not apply exclusively to senior-level leadership, but also for anyone who feels stuck in their careers due to a tendency to hesitate in the face of uncertainty. As such, Barnes and his guests seek to offer actionable solutions backed by examples taken from many different areas of the business world, though the specifics will be different for everyone.

As Barnes explains, his career as an industry-leading digital marketing specialist uniquely prepared him to speak on these topics, as in that time he was required to innovate in the digital landscape and adapt to new trends on the fly. Had he waited for conclusive analysis to come in before acting, he suggests that the business would likely not have been successful.

In the mind of Thad Barnes and many others in the modern business world, there is only one way forward: bold, confident steps, head held high aloft, eyes to the horizon. Now, march!

You know, when we talk about challenges facing our military personnel, there's one issue that often flies under the radar - alcohol use. Did you know that 85% of soldiers seeking outpatient substance abuse treatment do so specifically for alcohol-related problems?