The Business Times Volume 31 Issue 3

THE BUSINESS T IMES News FEBRUARY 8-21, 2024

THE DEFINITIVE SOURCE FOR GRAND JUNCTION BUSINESS NEWS SINCE 1994

In this issue

n Slowing ahead?

2

A Colorado Mesa University professor doesn’t expect a recession, but the economy still could slow in Mesa County.

n Solar plan

Trends Growing Contributors venture

VOLUME 31, ISSUE 3

THEBUSINESSTIMES.COM

Opinion Business Briefs 5 Business People Almanac 4

An open house meeting set for Grand Junction will offer details about plans for solar development on public lands.

n Good causes

Proceeds from the Viva el Vino fund-raiser support local nonprofits and their efforts to change individual lives.

n Slow start

15

n Business caters to thumbs green and otherwise.

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The Mesa County real estate market got off to a slow start in January, but activity is expected to increase.

n It’s classified

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A new federal rule offers guidance to employers in classifying employees and independent contractors.

n Key role of HR

20

Isaiah Tyler demonstrates one of the hydroponic systems at Desert Bloom Hydroponics in Grand Junction.

Human resources isn’t just a cost center. Rather, HR plays a crucial rule in driving the success of businesses.

n Departments Almanac Business Briefs Business People Contributors News Opinion Trends

26-27 24 26 17-21 2-14 22-23 15-16

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

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February 8-21, 2024

Professor anticipates economic slowing

Trends Contributors Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac

CMU quarterly update reports on indicators for Mesa County Phil Castle

The Business Times

While Nathan Perry doesn’t expect a recession, he does anticipate what could be slowing in the Mesa County economy.

“I think we could see growth slow a little bit,” said Perry, an associate professor of economics at Colorado Mesa University who prepares a quarterly economic update for Mesa County.

His latest update Nathan Perry issued in January details what Perry said was a disappointing gain in gross domestic product given other indicators signaling the potential for growth. The labor market showed some signs of softening even as sales tax collections rose slightly.

Household and personal income continued to increase, however.

And Perry said he expects inflation and interest rates to moderate.

Asked in a telephone interview with the Business Times to assess the fourth quarter of 2023 in a word, Perry said “slower.”

According to the latest estimates for gross domestic product — the broad measure of goods and services produced in the county — GDP grew only a tenth of a percent in 2022 compared to 2021, Perry said. “I thought that was really disappointing.”

County level statistics for GDP lag a year. GDP increased 3.74 percent in 2021, rebounding from a 2.4 percent decline in 2020 and the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to labor estimates for 2023 through November, Mesa County employment increased 779. The seasonally unadjusted unemployment rate held steady in Mesa County at 3.2 percent in November and October.

According to separate estimates from the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment for December, Mesa County payrolls edged up just 61 during 2023 to 74,726. The number of people counted among those unsuccessfully looking for work increased rose 477 to 2,705.

The jobless rate stood at 3.5 percent in December, up from 2.9 percent a year ago.

See ECONOMIC page 12

Nikki and Isaiah Tyler own and operate Desert Bloom Hydroponics in Grand Junction. They purchased the business about a year ago and subsequently expanded the products and services they offer their customers.

That includes a series of classes and a recent session on growing and grafting various types of cactus.

Growing venture Owners make it their business to help thumbs green and otherwise

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Nikki Tyler opens an indoor grow tent to reveal the variety of plants inside.

Desert Bloom Hydroponics offers a range of gardening supplies and other products for growing plants indoors and outdoors.

saiah and Nikki Tyler oversee a growing venture in every sense of those words.

The Tylers own and operate Desert Bloom Hydroponics, a Grand Junction business that sells a variety of seeds, soils and other supplies for indoor and outdoor gardening. But they’re also expanding the operation by offering more products and services — classes, for example.

And thanks in part to what they attribute to more interest in growing mushrooms, business has increased.

“It’s been everything we’ve been looking for,” Isaiah says.

What the Tylers were looking for was a venture that combined their skills and training in accounting, business management and education with their passion for gardening. They found it after moving to the Grand Valley and discovering Desert Bloom Hydroponics. What they told Kurtis Houston, the former owner of the business, was prophetic, Isaiah says.

“We wanted to own this someday.”

When Houston, who became a friend and mentor, decided to retire, he sold the business to the Tylers.

See GROWING page 14

STORY AND PHOTOS BY PHIL CASTLE

February 8-21, 2024

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The Business Times 609 North Ave., Suite 5 Grand Junction, CO 81501 (970) 424-5133 www.thebusinesstimes.com The Business Times 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 don’t necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, editor or advertisers.

Copyright © 2024 — All rights reserved

The Business Times

February 8-21, 2024

Meeting to detail BLM solar plan

An upcoming meeting in Grand Junction will offer information about plans for solar energy development on public lands.

The U.S. Bureau of Land Management has scheduled the open house-style meeting for 5 to 7 p.m. Feb. 20 at the Grand Junction Convention Center, 159 Main St. “The BLM is committed to ensuring public lands do their part to meet our nation’s clean energy goals,” said BLM Director Tracy Stone-Manning. “We can and must do so responsibly, and we look forward to hearing from the public on how to achieve that balance.”

The meeting is part of efforts to preview proposed revisions to the BLM’s utility scale T. Stone-Manning solar energy programmatic environmental impact statement — also known as the updated Western Solar Plan. The plan would streamline the BLM framework for siting solar energy projects as well as expand the BLM solar energy program to cover five additional states across the West.

The plan will guide efforts to direct solar energy development to areas with fewer sensitive resources, less conflict with other uses of public lands and close proximity to transmission lines.

The updated Western Solar Plan evaluates six alternatives,

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

For more information about the updated Western Solar Plan and solar energy development on public lands across the West, visit the U.S. Bureau of Land Management solar program website located at www.blm.gov/programs/energy-and-minerals/ renewable-energy/solar-energy. To view the draft environmental impact statement and learn how to submit comments, log on to https://eplanning.blm.gov/ eplanning-ui/project/2022371/510. each proposing to make different amounts of public land available to solar energy development applications under such criteria as proximity to transmission lines, designated critical habitat and other important ecological and cultural resources. Public comments will be used in developing a final environmental impact statement and record of decision.

The draft environmental impact statement was published in the Federal Register on Jan. 19, trigging a public comment period that will extend until April 18. In addition to the Grand Junction meeting, the BLM has scheduled two virtual and five other inperson public meetings during the comment period.

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Comments sought on proposed BLM rule for West Slope areas

The U.S. Bureau of Land Management is accepting comments on a proposed rule to protect natural resources and provide for safe public recreation in several areas of western Colorado.

The proposed rule addresses a variety of site-specific issues, including building fires, disposing of human waste and keeping dogs on leases.

“The proposed supplementary rule will not significantly

change our management of these public lands. It gives us better ability to address commitments we made to the public as we developed our resource management plans,” said James Michels, acting manager of the BLM Northwest District in Colorado.

The proposed rule is available for review online through the BLM website at https://eplanning.blm.gov/eplanning-ui/home.

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February 8-21, 2024

The Business Times

Viva el Vino deemed a fun and fund-raiser Event chairwoman: Proceeds distributed to local nonprofits “touch individual lives” Phil Castle

The Business Times

The stories abound — about people who learn to ski, children who experience the outdoors and students who develop a love of reading.

And that’s just a few of the beneficiaries of the money the Junior Service League of Grand Junction raises through its annual Viva el Vino event and then distributes to nonprofit organizations in Mesa County.

Stephanie Plieness, chairwoman of the 2024 Viva el Vino, said it’s not only the amount of money the group raises that’s important, but also what that money means. “We’re touching individual lives. It’s not just a number.”

Stephanie Plieness In addition to a variety of wines, Viva el Vino will feature cocktails and a beer garden with beers from the Palisade Brewing Co. Stray Grass, an acoustic Americana band from Grand Junction, will perform.

Viva el Vino also will include a silent auction. In addition to those attending the event, others can participate in the auction on a virtual basis through the Junior Service League website.

Plieness expects more than 200 people to attend the signature fund-raiser for the Junior Service League and raise as much money as possible for the nonprofits the organization supports that in turn provide services to women, children and families.

In December, the Junior Service League awarded a total of $30,000 in grants to 11 nonprofits. Since its inception in 1983, the Junior Service League has awarded more than $1.1 million in grants and provided more than 750,000 hours of community service.

The recipients of Junior Service League funding include Colorado Discover Ability, the Colorado Canyons Association and Riverside Education Centers.

Sherry Schreiner, a member of the Colorado Discover Ability board of directors, said the Junior Service League has provided a dependable source of funding that supports programs that provide outdoor recreational opportunities for people with disabilities. That includes skiing and hockey programs in the winter, rafting and other water sports in the

FOR YOUR INFORMATION Viva el Vino is set for 6 to 9 p.m.

April 27 at the Wine Country Inn at 777 Grande River Drive in Palisade. Tickets sell for $100 and are available online at https://jslgj.com/viva-el-vino. summer, adaptive cycling and adventure camps.

Schreiner said the programs foster independence and self-confidence in the participants, Schreiner said. That includes the client who learned not only how to ski, but also ski fast, as well as a young girl who discovered how much she enjoyed swimming.

Annie Carter, education programs manager with the Colorado Canyons Association, said funding supports efforts to foster the stewardship and awareness of national conservation areas in Western Colorado, including the McInnis Canyons, Dominguez-Escalante and Gunnison Gorge national conservation areas.

Outreach and educational programs and events reach thousands of people each year, Carter said. Programs turn the national conservation areas into outdoor classrooms for students from Mesa, Delta and Montrose counties and offer them opportunities to experience the outdoors.

Funding from the Junior Service League will enhance those experiences for Spanish-speaking students, Carter said, by providing a translator and printing materials in Spanish.

Kayla Pool, a marketing specialist with the Riverside Education Centers, said funding supports an organization that provides academic and extracurricular activities for more than 1,100 kindergarten through 12th grade students in Mesa County. The organization operates 16 tutoring sites at Mesa County School District 51 schools.

Junior Service League funding helped provide what Pool called enrichment bins with materials and lesson plans for various activities.

While Riverside Education Centers has helped thousands of students, Pool said one comes to mind in a fourth grader who was experiencing difficulty reading.

Tutoring turned frustration into enjoyment, Pool said. “Now she loves reading.”

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February 8-21, 2024

Colorado West Land Trust launches initiative The Colorado West Land Trust has entered into the public phase of an initiative to raise $1.8 million to bolster conversation efforts in Western Colorado.

“The future of our region is inextricably tied to the health of our lands and waters, and today we are confronted by unparalleled challenges threatening our landscapes,” said Rob Rob Bleiberg Bleiberg, executive director of the Colorado Land Trust based in Grand Junction.

“In this pivotal moment for Western Colorado, the land trust rises to the occasion through the Forty Forever campaign, marking a crucial and distinctive chapter in our commitment to safeguarding the natural treasures that

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

For more information about the Colorado West Land Trust Forty Forever campaign, visit http://cowestlandtrust.org/forty-forevercampaign-seeding-the-future. define our region,” Bleiberg added.

Nearly $1.5 million — more than 80 percent of the goal of the campaign — has been raised. The land trust has called on the public to help raise the remaining amount.

As part of the campaign, Carlson Vineyards has released a limited edition Forever West Oak Chardonnay.

Proceeds from sales of the wine will support the Forty Forever campaign. Bottles will be available for purchase

at the end of February at Carlson Vineyards locations at 461 35 Road Palisade as well as 545 Main St. in downtown Grand Junction.

The Forty Forever: Seeding the Future campaign will address five areas — land conservation, restoration and resilience, water, community connections and organizational readiness and regional capacity.

Efforts will include filling in existing protected areas and conserving new areas along waterways as well as protecting productive agricultural lands along with water rights, big game and endangered species habitat and scenic and climate-resilient landscapes.

Colorado West Land Trust has conserved a total of more than 133,500 acres in Mesa County and five other Western Slope counties.

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Film festival world tour stops set for February

Tickets are on sale for an annual festival showcasing films featuring outdoor sports, remote locations and environmental issues.

Stops on the Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival 2023 and 2024 world tour are set for Feb. 14 at the Colorado Mesa University ballroom in Grand Junction, Feb. 15 and 16 at the Avalon Theater in downtown Grand Junction and Feb. 17 at the Egyptian Theater in Delta.

Doors will open at 5 p.m. at CMU and the films will begin at 6 p.m. Films will begin at 7 p.m. at the Avalon and Egyptian theaters.

Tickets and more information about the Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival world tour are available from a local website at www.banffgj.com.

The Rotary Club of Grand Junction brings the film festival to the Grand Valley as an annual fund-raising event.

Proceeds support the Colorado Canyons Association, Colorado Mesa University international student and outdoor programs, Colorado National Monument Association, Colorado Plateau Mountain Bike Trail Association and Western Colorado Conservation Corps.

Films that will be shown in Grand Junction and Delta were selected from among the more than 400 entries in the annual Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival in Canada.

Award winners and audience favorites are selected to play in theaters around the world. With stops planned in a total of more than 600 communities in more than 40 countries across the globe, the film festival tour reaches a combined audience of more than 550,000.

The tour stop in Grand Junction will include films about a rafting guide on the Salmon River in Idaho, parents and their two children who climb Norway’s national mountain and a ski crew called the Blondes.

Oliver Sutro, director of the film titled “School of Fish” will be at the festival on Feb. 16 to introduce his film.

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February 8-21, 2024

Grants help businesses and farms expand food access Applications will be accepted through March 11 for a second round of grants to help small food retailers and family farms expand access to food in Colorado.

Grants of up to $50,000 are available through the Community Food Access Program. Small grocery stores, corner stores, carnicerias, farmers markets, farm stands, community supported agriculture programs and small farms could be eligible. Grants cover the costs of expanding food access, including equipment, operating expenses, storage or display shelving and more.

Nearly $2 million was awarded in the first found of grants, and up to $6 million is available for all rounds of funding. Any eligible business can apply for funding in the second round, including those that received funding in first round or whose applications were declined.

“We received almost 200 applications in the first

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

More information about the Community Food Access Program, including eligible expenses and a link to the grant application, is available online at ag.colorado.gov/CFAgrant. round, demonstrating the infrastructure needs of small food businesses who hope to expand access to fresh, healthy food for Coloradans in all parts of our state,” said Mickey Davis, manager of the Community Food Access Program. “This funding will have a positive impact on communities where there are few options for purchasing healthy food.”

The Community Food Access program is part of

efforts by the Colorado Department of Agriculture to support the development of local food networks by helping communities access fresh, healthy food from farms and ranches across Colorado. The Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program provides support for non-meat processing and value-added opportunities for Colorado producers.

The Colorado Department of Agriculture has contracted with outreach and technical assistance providers in select regions of the state. Business owners can receive help filling out grant applications by working with one of these partners.

The grant webpage includes information about eligibility, priorities, frequently asked questions and what grant recipients can expect after receiving awards.

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Applicants sought for federal funding for efforts offering food and shelter

Applications will be accepted through 5 p.m. Feb. 26 for funding for emergency food and shelter programs in Mesa County.

The county was awarded nearly $58,000 from the Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency under the Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program United Way of Mesa County serves as the award administrator and is accepting applications for distributing the funding for local programs.

To be eligible to receive funding through the program, organizations must be nonprofit or government units located in Mesa County, meet the criteria for receiving federal funds, have an established accounting system, practice nondiscrimination, demonstrate the ability to administer emergency food or shelter programs and have a volunteer board of directors.

A local volunteer board will determine the distribution of funds allocated in Mesa County.

Organizations interested in applying for funds should contact Keira Auld at United Way of Mesa County by email at impact@uwmesacounty.org or telephone at (970) 243-5364 for an application.

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February 8-21, 2024

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Girl Scout cookie sales under way The sale is under way. Girl Scouts have started selling cookies as part of a annual program that not only raises money, but also develops entrepreneurial skills.

Adventurefuls, Dos-Si-Does, LemonUps, Tagalongs, Thin Mints and Trefoils sell for $5 a package. S’mores and gluten-free Toffee-tanstic cookies sell for $6 a package.

Proceeds from Girl Scout cookie sales fund service projects, troop travel and summer camps.

In Mesa County, a fund-raising event titled Give a Chef a Cookie is set for 6 to 8 p.m. Feb. 23. Local chefs will prepare dishes infused with Girl Scout cookies. Attendees will sample six recipes.

For additional information, contact Ashley Douglas by telephone at (970) 628-8004 or email at ashley.douglas@gscolorado.org.

For additional information about Girl Scout cookies, visit the website located at www.girlscoutsofcolorado.org/cookies.

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Grand Junction Girl Scouts, from left, Ada Malott, Abbie Grossman and Evy Malott are nearly surrounded by the Girl Scout cookies delivered to the Grand Valley for sales now under way. (Photo courtesy Girl Scouts of Colorado)

February 8-21, 2024

It’s a Breeze: new service takes flight

Breeze Airways has launched a new route that brings additional commercial service to the Grand Junction Regional Airport.

The inaugural flight between Grand Junction and Orange CountySanta Ana in southern California was scheduled for Feb. 6.

Breeze Airways has scheduled flights between Grand Junction and Orange County-Santa Ana Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

The airline also has scheduled flights between Grand Junction and Provo, Utah, for Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays.

One-way fares to Orange County-Santa Ana start at $39.

Summer seasonal service between Grand Junction and San Francisco is set to start May 22 with Wednesday and Saturday flights.

“The Grand Junction area is rapidly growing, and affordable connectivity to California is critical to support economic development and quality of life in the region,” said Angela Padalecki, executive director of the Grand Junction Regional Airport. “We warmly welcome Breeze to Grand Junction and, more broadly, to the state of Colorado.

Their nice service, nice prices and nice destinations are a perfect fir for GJT and the communities we serve.”

David Neeleman, founder and chief executive officer of Breeze Airways, also hailed the new routes.

“Breeze is all about connecting great locations which don’t have existing nonstop service. Grand Junction, which Travel + Leisure magazine calls ‘one of Colorado’s best secrets,’ is a great example of this.”

Based in Salt Lake City, Breeze Airways operates a total of 150 yearround and seasonal routes between 49 cities in 27 states. The company operates Airbus A220-300 and Embrarer 190-195 aircraft. Since it began service in May 2021, Breeze Airways has twice been recognized by readers of Travel + Leisure as one of the best U.S. airlines.

Breeze Airways offers passengers bundled and a la cart options branded as nice, nicer and nicest. The nicest bundle includes two checked bags, priority boarding and business class style seating with snacks and beverages. Breeze Airways doesn’t charge change or cancellation fees up to 15 minutes prior to departure.

For more information about Breeze Airways, including flights to and from Grand Junction, log on to www.flybreeze.com.

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February 8-21, 2024

Economic

Continued from page 2 Between the third quarters of 2022 and 2023, the biggest job gains occurred in the educational services, health care and public administration categories, Perry said. After losses for several quarters, health care employment rebounded, he said.

The biggest losses occurred in the finance and insurance, mining and retail trade sectors.

Employment could grow in 2024, but at what could be a slow pace given what are already low unemployment rates, he said.

Several standard of living measures increased, Perry said. Median household income in Mesa County rose 9.5 percent from 2021 to 2022 to $69,578. Personal income per capita — that is, total earnings divided by the population — increased 2.7 percent to $54,654.

The percentage of the Mesa County population below the poverty line edged up a tenth of a point to 10.7 percent, he said.

Mesa County sales tax collections, a measure of retail activity, were up about three-tenths of a percent through November of 2023 compared to the same span in 2022, Perry said According to a separate report from Mesa County for the entirety of 2023, sales tax collections totaled nearly $49.2 million.

That was up nine-tenths of a percent from 2022.

Higher interest rates on mortgages and lower residential inventories have curbed real estate activity, Perry said.

A total of 3,613 real estate transactions worth a collective $1.56 billion were reported in Mesa County in 2023. Compared to 2022, transactions declined 23.5 percent and dollar volume dropped 24.9 percent.

Low inventories kept home prices stable, however. The median prices of homes sold in 2023 was $389,000, up 1 percent from 2022.

New home construction lagged, he said.

A total of 436 building permits for singlefamily homes were issued in Mesa County in 2023, down 39.5 percent from 2022.

Perry also monitors a number of national economic indicators, among them inflation and interest rates.

For December, inflation came in 3.4 percent, a gain driven by a 6.2 percent increase in the cost of shelter. The cost of medical services also increased, he said.

Still, inflation moderated faster than what Perry said he initially expected and should decrease further in 2024.

Interest rates should decrease as well, he said, as the Federal Reserve likely achieves a so-called soft landing in curbing inflation without triggering a recession.

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FOR YOUR INFORMATION Quarterly economic updates for Mesa County and neighboring Western Slope counties are available online from Colorado Mesa University at the website at https://www.coloradomesa.edu/ business/economic-newsletter.html.

February 8-21, 2024

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Growing

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February 8-21, 2024

The goal, the Tylers say, is to serve as Continued from page 2 a one-stop gardening shop.

That was in October 2022. The Tylers The Tylers obtain as many of their have since refurbished the building on products as they can from local sources Pitkin Avenue that houses Desert Bloom and vendors to promote collaborations.

Hydroponics and before that a carpet and “That’s very important to us,” Isaiah says. flooring business.

The Tylers use a Vortex system to They’ve also stocked the shelves brew what they call compost tea, a solution with an assortment of products — nearly of nutrients and microorganisms that everything needed for indoor or outdoor promote plant health and growth. They gardening regardless of the interests or offer the first gallon of compost tea to their skill levels of the gardeners. customers at no charge.

Isaiah brings to the venture experience Desert Bloom Hydroponics also sells in accounting and business management. He spores, substrates and other supplies for holds a master’s of business administration growing mushrooms. degree. Nikki brings to the venture Nikki says there’s increased interest experience in education and working with in growing oyster, shitake and other types children with hearing loss. She holds a of gourmet mushrooms used in cooking as master’s degree as well.

The Tylers also bring to the venture Isaiah and Nikki Tyler are surrounded by the merchandise they sell at Desert Bloom well as lion’s mane, turkey tail and other types of medicinal mushrooms used to their love of gardening.

Hydroponics. The venture combines their experience in business and education promote health.

Isaiah attributes his interest to his with their passion for gardening. (Business Times photo by Phil Castle) A new law also makes it legal in youth and working with his grandmother in her garden. “She gave me a love of the gardening way gardening. That’s not to mention seeds and seedlings, Colorado for people 21 and older to grow psychedelic houseplants, a variety of containers in which to propagate mushrooms in private residences. of life.”

In addition to products, the Tylers offer education in Nikki says gardening is a part of the culture in and grow plants, gardening tools and other accessories. many forms, including books and the regular classes they Jamaica, where she grew up. offer at their store covering a range of subjects.

The Tylers sell a variety of hydroponic systems in FOR YOUR INFORMATION More than anything, they say they want people to feel which to grow plants using water rather than soil as a comfortable about coming in, asking questions, sharing growing medium.

Desert Bloom Hydroponics is located at their interests and building a community.

Nikki says hydroponics offers a good way to grow 445 Pitkin Ave. in Grand Junction and open “We want everyone in Grand Junction to know what plants indoors as well as control the exact amount of from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday this shop is about,” Nikki says. nutrients plants take up through their roots. Hydroponics and 10 a.m. to 4:20 p.m. Saturday. For more And that’s yet another sense, the Tylers say, of a promotes more rapid and robust growth, she says. information, call (970) 245-6247 or log on to growing venture.

The business also sells a variety of soils and https://desertbloomgardening.com.

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February 8-21, 2024

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Trends Contributors Off Opinion to a slow start Business Briefs Business People Almanac

INDICATORS AT A GLANCE

n Business filings s New business filings in Colorado, 43,902 in the third quarter, up 0.6 percent from the third quarter of 2022.

n Confidence

s Consumer Confidence Index 114.8 for January, up 6.8. s Leeds Business Confidence Index for Colorado, 45.3 for the first quarter, up 1.7.

s National Federation of Independent Business Small Business Optimism Index 91.9 for December, up 1.3.

n Foreclosures

t Foreclosure filings in Mesa County, 14 in January, down from 21 in January 2023. t Foreclosure sales in Mesa County, 3 in January, down from 4 in January 2023.

n Indexes

s Conference Board Employment Trends Index, 113.71 for January, up 0.8.

t Conference Board Leading Economic Index 103.1 for December, down 0.1%. s Institute for Supply Management Purchasing Managers Index for manufacturing, 49.1% for January, up 2%. s Institute for Supply Management Purchasing Managers Index for services, 53.4% for January, up 2.9%.

n Real estate

t Real estate transactions in Mesa County, 208 in January, down 2.8% from January 2023. s Dollar volume of real estate transactions in Mesa County, $106 million in January, up 13.7% from January 2023.

n Sales

s Sales and use tax collections in Mesa County, $4.4 million for December, up 0.7% from December 2022.

n Unemployment s Mesa County — 3.5% for December, up 0.3. s Colorado — 3.4% for December, up 0.1. n United States — 3.7% for January, unchanged.

Mesa County real estate activity still expected to pick up in 2024 Phil Castle

The Business Times

The Mesa County real estate market began 2024 nearly the same way it ended 2023 — with more of a fizzle than a bang.

But a January of declining transactions caused in part by higher interest rates and lower residential inventories doesn’t necessarily indicate what will follow the remainder of the year, industry executives said.

Robert Bray, chief executive officer of Bray & Co. Real Estate in Grand Junction, said Robert Bray he’s still optimistic interest rates will relent and real estate activity will increase. “Going forward, I think we’ll see a better year.”

Annette Young, the administrative coordinator at Heritage Title Co. in Grand Junction, said 208 real estate were reported in Mesa County in January. For January 2023, 214 transactions were reported.

“It looks like we’re kind of following last year’s pattern,” Young said.

Annette Young Dollar volume increased 13.7 percent year over year, however, to $106 million. she said.

Fifteen large transactions worth a total of $38 million bolstered dollar volume, she said, including the sale of two retail buildings near the intersection of 12th Street and Orchard Ave. in Grand Junction for $5 million, more than 1,500 acres of the Escalante Ranch in Gateway for nearly $5 million and a self-storage facility near the Grand Junction Regional Airport for more than $4 million.

According to numbers Bray & Co. tracks for the residential real estate market, 115 transactions worth a total of nearly $47.4 million were reported in Mesa County in January. Compared to the same month last year, transactions declined 23.3 percent and dollar volume decreased 17.7 percent.

Bray said higher interest rates continue to curtail sales not only in making borrowing more expensive, but also making

homeowners otherwise interested in selling reluctant to do so for fear of trading existing mortgages with comparatively lower rates with new mortgages with higher rates.

That situation also has curtailed residential inventories, Bray said. At the end of January, there were for 461 active residential listings in Mesa County. That’s down 5.5 percent from a year ago.

At the current pace of sales, there’s about a four-month supply. A six-month supply is more indicative of an equilibrium between buyers and sellers, he said New home construction in 2023 lagged 2022 with a 40 percent decrease in the number of building permits issued in Mesa County for single-family homes.

Bray said he was encouraged, though, by the 45 permits issued in January. That’s a nearly 66.7 percent increase over the same month a year ago, although the gain could be attributed in part to more conducive weather this year for construction.

On a national level, home builders have become more confident and increased activity as a result, he said.

Low supplies coupled with persistent demand have maintained pressure on home prices, Bray said. The median price of homes sold in Mesa County in January increased 2.2 percent on a yearover-year basis to $369,000.

Fully 98.5 percent of homes sold in January received the list price, although list prices have been coming down, he said.

Just one month of real estate activity doesn’t offer any indication of what will unfold in 2024, Bray said. He looks for three to four months of activity as a more accurate indicator.

Bray said he expects average interest rates on 30-year mortgages to fall to the low 6s or high 5s, although perhaps not until the second half of 2024. “Rates will drop at some point this year.”

When they do, he said he anticipates real estate activity will increase.

In the meantime, property foreclosure activity remains minimal in Mesa County. Young said 14 foreclosure filings and three sales were reported in January. Both of those numbers were below January 2023.

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Consumer Confidence Index rebounds A measure of consumer confidence has rebounded to its highest level in more than two years on more optimistic assessments of business and labor conditions.

The Conference Board reported its Consumer Confidence Index rose 6.8 points between December and January to 114.8. With increases in each of the last three months, the reading climbed to its highest level since December 2021. Components of the index Dana Peterson tracking current conditions and short-term expectations both increased.

“January’s increase in consumer confidence likely reflected slower inflation, anticipation of lower interest rates ahead and generally favorable employment conditions as companies continue to hoard labor,” said Dana Peterson, chief economist of the Conference Board.

The New York-based think tank bases the index on the results of monthly household surveys.

Peterson said confidence increased across all ages and all income groups, except for households earning more than $125,000 a year. The perceived likelihood of recession within the next year eased, as did expectations interest rates will move higher.

For January, more upbeat assessments of current conditions pushed up the present situation component of the index 14.1 points to 161.3.

The portion of consumers responding to the survey upon which the January index was based who called business conditions good rose 1.4 points to 22.5 percent. The share of those who called business conditions bad fell three points to 14.2 percent.

The proportion of consumers who said jobs were plentiful rose 5.1 points to 45.5 percent. The share of those who said jobs were hard to get fell 3.3 points to 9.8 percent.

More optimistic outlooks for the next six months pushed up the expectations component of the index 1.9 points to 83.8 — above the level associated with an impending recession.

The share of consumers who said they expected business conditions to improve over the next six months fell 2.1 points to 16.6 percent. The proportion of those who anticipated worsening conditions also fell — 1.8 points to 16 percent.

The share of consumers who said they expect more jobs to become available fell 1.6 points to 16 percent. The proportion of those who expected fewer jobs fell more — 3.1 points to 15.3 percent.

While 16.4 percent of consumer said they expect their incomes to increase, 11.5 percent expected decreased incomes.

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The Business Times

U.S. payrolls up 353,000 in January The new year began with further increases in United States payrolls even as the unemployment rate held steady.

Nonfarm payrolls increased 353,000 and the jobless rate remained unchanged at 3.7 percent in January, according to the latest estimates from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Initial estimates for payroll gains the previous two months were revised upward a total of 126,000 to 333,000 for December and 182,000 in November.

Payrolls increased an average of 255,000 a month in 2023.

For January, 6.1 million people were counted among those unsuccessfully looking for work. Of those, 1.3 million had been out of work for 27 weeks or longer. Another 4.4 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 — the portion of the population

working or looking for work — was unchanged at 62.5 percent.

Payroll gains were spread out among a number of industry sectors. Employment increased 74,000 in professional and business services, 70,000 in health care, 45,000 in retail trades and 30,000 in social assistance. Government payrolls rose 36,000.

Employment retreated 5,000 in the mining sector, as losses in support activities more than offset gains in oil and natural gas extraction.

The average workweek for employees on private, nonfarm payrolls shortened two-tenths of an hour to 34.1 hours. The manufacturing workweek remained unchanged at 39.8 hours.

Average hourly earnings for employees on private, nonfarm payrolls rose 19 cents to $34.55. Hourly earnings increased 4.5 percent over the past year.

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February 8-21, 2024

Labor index rises

An index tracking labor trends has increased for a second consecutive month, signaling continued job growth in the United States.

The Conference Board reported its Employment Trends Index rose eight-tenths of a point to 113.71 in January. The index now stands at its highest level since May, although the latest reading remains below its peak in March 2022.

The January gain was driven by increases in four of eight components.

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Trends Contributors Opinion distinction Classified Business Briefs Business People Almanac

February 8-21, 2024

The Business Times

Page 17

COMING ATTRACTIONS

n The Business Incubator Center has scheduled classes on filing state sales tax returns and preparing cash flow budgets.

A class on completing the Colorado Department of Revenue sales tax return is set for 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Feb. 13 at the center, 2591 Legacy Way in Grand Junction.

A class on cash flow budgeting using Microsoft Excel is scheduled for noon to 1 p.m. Feb. 20.

To register for or obtain more information about classes, services and programs offered at the center, visit https://gjincubator.org or call (970) 243-5242. n The Palisade Chamber of Commerce has scheduled a presentation on financing options for small businesses as well as its annual member banquet.

A free lunch and learn presentation on financing options for small businesses is set for noon to 1 p.m. Feb. 13 at a location to be determined.

The member banquet and community awards presentation is set for 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. March 8 at the Ordinary Fellow Winery, 202 Peach Ave. The event will include cocktails, dinner and live entertainment.

Admission is $85 for chamber members, $105 for others and $800 for a table for 10.

To register for or obtain more information about upcoming chamber events, call (970) 464-7458 or visit the website located at https://palisadecoc.com. n The next Coffee Club free networking meeting is set for 9 to 10 a.m. Feb. 16 at FWorks, 325 E. Aspen Ave. in Fruita. For more information, visit https://gjincubator.org or https://fruitachamber.org. n The Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce has scheduled a legislative trip and annual banquet.

The legislative trip to Denver is set for Feb. 22 and 23 and will include meetings and a dinner with state legislators.

The banquet is set for 5:30 to 11:30 p.m.

March 1 at the Grand Junction Convention Center,159 Main St. The banquet will include the presentation of business and citizen of the year awards.

To register for or obtain more information about upcoming chamber events, visit https://gjchamber.org or call (970) 242-3214. n The Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce has scheduled a women’s conference.

The conference is set for 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. March 13 at the Colorado Mesa University Center ballroom in Grand Junction.

The conference will include breakout and panel presentations and happy hour.

Kelly Brough, vice president of strategic partnerships at Colorado Mesa University, is scheduled to deliver the keynote address.

Tickets sell for $80 for chamber members and $125 for others. Tables for 10 are available for $750 for chamber members and $1,200 for others.

To register for or obtain more information about upcoming events, call (970) 858-3894 or visit https://fruitachamber.org.

New rule offers guidance on employee vs. contractor issues The U.S. Department of Labor issued a final rule on determining independent contractor status under the Fair Labor Standards Act. Under the new rule, which takes affect March 11, the DOL will consider the totality of circumstances in each case to determine whether a worker is an employee or independent contractor. These factors include, but aren’t limited to: n The worker’s opportunities for profit or loss based on managerial skills that affect the worker’s economic success in performing the work.

Dean or failure n The worker’s entrepreneurial Harris investment or capital in the costs of performing the work. n The degree of permanence in the working relationship. n The potential employer’s control, including reserved control, over the performance of the work and the economic aspects of the working relationship. n Whether the work performed is an integral part of the employer’s business. n Whether the worker uses specialized skills to perform the work and whether those skills contribute to business-like initiative. n Any additional relevant factors indicating whether the worker is in business for him or herself as opposed to being economically dependent on the potential employer for income.

What does the new rule mean for employers? In some ways, it means little. In others, it means a lot.

First, the new list of factors isn’t radically different than previous tests. But it’s drafted in broader language that allows the DOL to classify more workers as employees.

This likely will result in more legal claims by workers seeking back pay and overtime that were deprived them by their classifications as independent contractors.

Second, this is only one test for independent contractor status among many. For example, the IRS uses a 20-factor test. The National Labor Relations Board uses an 11-factor test. But all tests focus on two considerations. How free are workers from the control of the organizations to whom they provide services? Do workers engage in independent businesses or trades?

Imagine, for example, the heat goes out at your business. If you have an HVAC person employed in house, he puts in regular hours and fixes the heat when and how his supervisor directs him to do so. No matter how competent the employee is or how fast they complete the repair, they generally make the same hourly pay. And your business is in the business of making widgets, not servicing heating equipment. But if your business calls an HVAC service, it fixes the heat on its schedule. The business calls the service because it has experience to fix the heat, and the contractor sets the rates based on experience and expertise.

The contractor is retained because the business is all about servicing HVAC. And the contractor provides services to numerous customers.

Finally, the Colorado Department of Labor and Insurance (CDLE), aggressively investigates and penalizes employers who fail to pay wages because of employer misclassification. The CDLE’s Interpretive Notice and Formal Opinion No. 10 provides guidance on the differences between employees and independent contractors at https://cdle.colorado.gov/infos.

The new list of factors isn’t radically different than previous tests. But it’s drafted in broader language that allows the DOL to classify more workers as employees. This likely will result in more legal claims by workers seeking back pay and overtime that were deprived them by their classifications as independent contractors.

The biggest risk for most employers is assessment of back taxes and penalties for unemployment insurance and the cost of injuries to workers the business misclassified as independent contractors and didn’t cover under workers’ compensation insurance.

The Colorado Employment Security Act (CESA) and Workers’ Compensation Act (WCA) set the standards for worker classification for unemployment insurance and workers’ compensation. They’re similar to the standards under the Colorado Wage Act, but not identical.

Consistent with new DOL rule, the Colorado Supreme Court ruled in Industrial Claim Appeals Office v. Softrock Geological Services that for the purpose of determining if a worker is an independent contractor under the Colorado Employment Security Act, whether the worker is customarily engaged in an independent trade, occupation, profession or business is resolved only by examining the totality of circumstances in the relationship between the worker and employer. No single factor or set of factors are dispositive.

In my experience representing employers on worker classification issues, sometimes it’s the small additional relevant factors under the totality of the circumstances that put employers at increased risk of liability for worker misclassification. These might include: n Paying workers by the hour rather than the project. n Requiring a specific work schedule. n Requiring workers to use the business’s tools to perform services. n Requiring workers to use the business’s uniforms, email addresses, phone numbers or business cards. n Paying putative contractors in their own names rather than trade names or corporate identities.

Improperly classifying employees as independent contractors can prove a costly and disruptive mistake for employers. It can result in liabilities that include back wages and overtime, back unemployment insurance premiums, fines, penalties and even criminal liability under the FLSA and Colorado law. The Employers Council can assist consulting and enterprise members in determining the proper classification of workers and provides electronic guidance and resources.

Dean Harris is the Western Slope area managing attorney for the Employers Council. The Employers Council counsels, represents and trains member employers in all phases of employment relationships.

For more information, contact Harris at (970) 852-0190 or dharris@employerscouncil.org.

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The Business Times

February 8-21, 2024

Are you a leader or a boss? There’s a big difference If you’re like most people, you’ve worked for a variety of business owners and managers during your life.

A few probably stand out in your memory as people you enjoyed working for while others created unpleasant work environments. There’s probably little doubt in your mind about the type of person for which you preferred to work.

The same holds true for your team members.

There’s a vast difference between being a leader and being a boss.

A leader influences, collaborates, guides, inspires, mentors and supports others to foster movement in a desired direction. Conversely, a boss controls, dominates, demeans and uses fear and intimidation to get ever more out of the individuals he or she oversees.

Leaders are service-oriented and see themselves as part of a team. With Marcus this mindset, there’s no need for blame, Straub only a collaborative effort on a shared mission. Bosses are self-centered and power hungry. They believe they’re special and stand above everyone else. Because there’s no team concept, they play the blame game.

Leaders give credit where it’s due and readily accept responsibility as part of the team. They work with their people for solutions and inspire others through their example of accountability and teamwork. Bosses love to take credit for things that go well and none of the accountability for things that don’t. To maintain control, they believe they can never be at fault.

Leaders recognize that when a person receives quality instruction and training, understanding and efficiency follow. Leaders know sharing their time and knowledge helps their people to become more competent and, therefore,

While a leader empowers team members and inspires them to achieve professional and personal greatness, a boss disempowers people to exert control.

confident. Bosses like to tell others how to do things rather than get involved and demonstrate the process. They’re more interested in retaining power than teaching others how and why something should be done.

Leaders rely on the intelligence of their team members, realizing no one person knows it all. They seek out and welcome the ideas of teammates, knowing they’ll contribute to the team’s overall success. Bosses believe they know it all and are the only ones with the correct answers. They don’t welcome the knowledge of their people, which leaves employees uninspired and disheartened.

Leaders foster goodwill and enthusiasm, creating an environment where their teammates want to give as much as possible. Leaders know they can’t control others.

They help their people gain more self-control, make better decisions and become leaders, too. Bosses rely on authority and fear to make individuals do more and more for as little as possible. They attempt to control through intimidation.

Leaders empower team members and, therefore, the entire company. They lead everyone to increased happiness and success. Rather than simply bossing people around, leaders help others become their best. Bosses disempower and demoralize individuals, making them and the company less of what they could be.

Leaders view team members as human beings with their own hopes, dreams and desires. Leaders coach their

people to help them achieve their goals and become more than they once were. Bosses see people as objects in their pursuit of success, riches and power. They drive their people and use them up along the way.

Through their commitment to communication and mentoring, leaders foster the best in others and treat them as valuable human beings capable of accomplishing great things. Through their lack of appreciation and a dictatorial management style, bosses lay the foundation for distrust, resentment, disloyalty, higher turnover and absenteeism, lower productivity and efficiency and the underperformance of the business.

The biggest difference between these two management styles is this: While a leader empowers team members and inspires them to achieve professional and personal greatness, a boss disempowers people to exert control.

The best leaders believe in and value human beings and help team members to become leaders in their own right. Bosses do not.

Are you a leader, a boss or a combination of both?

If you recognize the need or desire for leadership development, take the powerful step of working with a qualified professional to become a respected leader.

Marcus Straub owns Life is Great Coaching in Grand Junction. His personalized coaching and consulting services help individuals, business owners, executives and companies build teams, organizations and lives filled with happiness and success. Straub is winner of the International Coach of the Year Award and author of “Is It Fun Being You?” He’s available for free consultations regarding coaching, speaking and trainings. Reach Straub at (970) 208-3150, marcus@ligcoaching.com or through the website located at www.ligcoaching.com.

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February 8-21, 2024

The Business Times

Avoid pitfalls when hiring employees When you bring new employees on board, the last thing you want is to run afoul of workers’ compensation, unemployment insurance, wage reporting and other new hire requirements.

The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment (CDLE) publishes a monthly newsletter and offers other useful information.

Once you’re registered as a business in Colorado, you should receive these emails automatically. Pay attention to their contents. n New hire and contractor reporting considerations: The debate over who’s an independent contractor or self-employed contract employee and who’s a W-2 hourly or employee rages on. Colorado requires Janet regular employers to report contractors as new hires if Arrowood their contracts are based on a Social Security number rather than a federal tax ID number.

Even if you hired the person using a company tax number, you must report all new hires to the Colorado State Directory of New Hires withing 20 days of the first day of work. You must provide the following information to the directory for anyone doing work for your company: full name, Social Security number, address and contract start date. Check the provided box to indicate if they’re independent contractors. n Workers’ compensation and unemployment insurance considerations: If you hire employees using Social Security numbers, you almost certainly will have to cover them under your workers’ compensation insurance program. As soon as someone accepts a job offer or contract, consult your insurance specialist to ensure you’re providing the correct coverage from the person’s first day on the job. If the person is hired under a federal tax ID number, check with your insurance specialist and tax professional to determine if you must add that person to your workers’ compensation insurance program. The same basic considerations apply for unemployment insurance coverage.

n Wage reporting requirements: Quarterly wage reports to the CDLE must include new hires who are W-2 employees, whether hourly — usually no benefits except workers’ compensation and unemployment insurance — or regular employees with full benefits. Not reporting wages properly can be a very expensive proposition. n Health insurance, retirement and other benefits: It’s greatly to your advantage to have an employee handbook that explains your company’s benefit package to new employees. If you don’t have a handbook or your current one isn’t up-to-date, consult a human resources specialist who knows Colorado law or contact the local Employers Council representative for assistance. n Colorado’s Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) program: This recently enacted employer requirement could be unfamiliar to newly hired employees or misunderstood by current employees. Information is available at https://famli.colorado.gov.

The FAMLI program ensures most Colorado workers have access to paid leave to take care of themselves or their families during life circumstances that pull them away from their jobs — like growing their families or taking care of loved ones with serious health conditions. Employers and employees contribute premiums to the program. Premium payments began in 2023, and benefits are now available.

Disclaimer: The preceding is provided for informational purposes only. Consult appropriate State of Colorado and U.S. Internal Revenue Service websites and publications. Also, consult your insurance, legal and tax specialists to make sure you follow the guidelines and requirements for your unique situation.

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

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

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February 8-21, 2024

HR plays a key role in driving business success When I started in human resource management many years ago — you know, before there were computers — the focus was on helping employees find resources enabling them to engage more in work and provide higher quality and productivity.

Some 30 years later, the HR role barely resembles that version.

We’re more focused on keeping organizations out of court, completing and tracking necessary paperwork and dealing with new regulations that don’t play well with existing regulations.

Reasonable accommodation and leave laws, among them.

What should an organization expect from HR? How does HR Kelly benefit an organization? The answer Murphy depends. How many times have you heard that from your HR professional or employment law attorney? It depends on the industry, size of the organization, accessible resources and time.

Still, crucial aspects of HR must be performed regardless of who performs them. Here are some of the vital areas of which businesses must remain aware: n Compliance and legal responsibilities: Reduce the chances of unfair treatment, bullying and not following work rules and laws. This involves managing employee discipline and dismissals properly; knowing the rights of employees and employers; preventing discrimination in paperwork, processes and conversations; making sure the workplace is accessible; meeting equal pay and transparency rules; and reviewing and updating work practices and policies. This also involves understanding both state and federal law and what to do if they contradict. n Employee relations: Maintain good relationships and

communication systems among employees, managers and the organization. This involves dealing with employee worries, resolving conflicts, addressing complaints, creating a positive workplace by solving personnel issues and improving communication between management and employees. n Strategic partnerships: Play a role in the big-picture planning of the organization by making sure what HR accomplishes aligns with the main goals. Help manage changes smoothly and predict what staff the organization will need in the future in planning for new services or dealing with challenges in the environment or economy. n Data analysis: Use data analysis to make smart choices, improve how things are done and contribute to the overall success of the organization. This includes looking at data on hiring and keeping good people; monitoring how engaged, happy and productive employees are; addressing concerns about keeping or losing employees and lack of talent; tracking trends in pay and benefits; and planning for professional development. n Recruitment: Put in place structures and processes to hire and retain good employees. This includes making the company look appealing to potential employees, building a pool of talented people, using technology and resources well and following the law in interviews and other hiring practices. This also includes using scorecards to pick candidates, conducting job tests when needed and maintaining good records of hiring decisions. n Retention: Ensure the company provides competitive pay, benefits and perks to keep top employees. This involves balancing work and personal life; offering such attractive features as flexible work hours and job sharing; and providing opportunities for learning, recognition and career growth. This also involves connecting with company culture and work conditions through regular communication.

If needed, talk with employees to identify and fix issues.

n Performance management: Supervise systems for evaluating how well employees perform, including setting expectations, providing feedback, making sure fair and clear criteria are used, following compliance requirements and creating plans to improve performance. Do this in a consistent and legal way that connects with the company’s approach to pay. n Paperwork management — and more regulations: This involves keeping legally defensible documents in such areas as hiring, benefits, pay, performance evaluations, when employees leave and how and why the employment environment changes. It also includes employee handbooks, job descriptions, surveys and more.

Meanwhile the privacy of employees must be protected.

HR isn’t just a cost center. It can be a strategic partner that plays a crucial role in attracting, retaining and developing a talented workforce; fostering a positive work environment; ensuring compliance; and driving organizational success.

Without a strong HR function, even the best business ideas struggle to find their wings.

Although this information might not be particularly exciting or captivating, neglecting it could grab attention should your company face allegations of workplace violations or discrimination. I bet that grabbed your attention.

Kelly Murphy works as a senior human resources business partner with Lighthouse HR Support in Grand Junction.

She brings to her duties nearly 30 years of experience as well as designations as a Professional in Human Resources and Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional. Lighthouse HR Support offers a range of HR management services to small and mediumsized businesses. For additional information, call (970) 243-7789 or log on to www.lighthousehrs.net.

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February 8-21, 2024

The Business Times

Page 21

Real estate reviews help keep homes healthy Your home is one of the biggest assets you’ll ever own. Keeping it in good condition and updated should rank high on your list of priorities.

The list of annual tasks can seem daunting, though, even if they benefit the well-being of your home — and budget.

An annual real estate review arranges your to-dos to boost your property’s value, help your home last longer and update your insurance to ensure the best coverage for your home.

What is a real estate review?

Just like an annual checkup for Stewart your physical health, you can have Cruickshank professionals assess your property to analyze your home’s condition, help you determine its value, plan projects, assess the effects of life’s inevitable changes on your property and align your goals with market trends.

In addition, this checkup can inform you how to keep your home insurance up-to-date based on your needs, environment and lifestyle. Updating your insurance annually keeps you appropriately covered, ultimately saving you money and providing peace of mind if anything were to happen.

Proactive maintenance is key to keeping your house in tip-top shape. By identifying and addressing minor issues early, you avoid larger and more expensive repairs that could escalate into serious hazards.

Enlisting the expertise of a full-time, professional real estate agent isn’t just for when you’re ready to buy or sell a home. An agent can also help ensure your property remains in peak condition to enhance its longevity and value so it’s comfortable for you and your family for years to come.

If you end up selling, you’re positioned to get the best price.

A seasoned agent and reliable maintenance team can help you keep up with regular checkups to preserve the health of your home. A professional agent can also recommend other experts that can address your wants and needs — from basic repairs to renovation projects to radon testing.

Proactive maintenance is key to keeping your house in tip-top shape. By identifying and addressing minor issues early, you avoid larger and more expensive repairs that

could escalate into serious hazards. While do-it-yourself inspections can be beneficial for spotting immediate concerns, there’s no substitute for a professional evaluation. The untrained eye might overlook subtle signs of underlying issues.

In anticipation of a review, it might be a good idea to start maintaining a record of home improvements and essential purchases. Noting the date of your last kitchen renovation or the age of your appliances can simplify the review process, resulting in a more precise evaluation.

Of course, a tidy and well-maintained home not only makes a good impression, but also helps in providing an accurate assessment.

Homeownership is an ongoing commitment. The best way to ensure your home remains happy and healthy is to inspect and maintain it now — not just for comfort, but also for the benefits to your home’s value and your financial future. The first step to enjoying your home for years is to inspect it today.

Stewart Cruickshank is sales manager of Bray & Co. Real Estate in Grand Junction. The company operates residential and commercial offices as well as a property management office. For more information, call 242-3267 or visit the website at www.brayandco.com.

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Crew maintains resources for employees who want to hit the trail The trails in Mesa County offer a valuable resource in promoting the health and well-being of your employees as well as the overall community.

When residents have easy access to trails, it encourages the outdoor recreation that’s beneficial for their physical, mental and social health.

In Mesa County, employees don’t have far to travel to enjoy trails.

“Mesa County Public Health has a four person, in-house trail crew that works to plan, create and maintain trails across Mesa County,” said Trails Ross Mittelman. “They Sarah Gray Coordinator work in collaboration with federal, state, municipal and community partners to ultimately increase access for everyone.”

Last year, the crew maintained 50 miles of trails in Mesa County while building 3 miles of new trail.

The crew wants to build on the momentum of trail and

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(970) 424-5133 www.thebusinesstimes.com

recreation work. This spring, the team will continue to focus on maintenance of the three main trail systems in Mesa County — the 18 Road, Kokopelli and Lunch Loops trails.

In addition to maintenance, a major trail project is under way along 18 Road in the north Fruita desert. The MCPH trail crew and Singletrack Trails are working to construct 32 additional miles to the 30 existing miles of trail.

The team is about halfway through the project, which should be mostly completed by the end of this spring.

The trail crew is also involved in planning projects for the Gunnison Bluffs and Old Spanish Trail areas south of the Mesa County Landfill.

Mesa County Public Health received a state outdoor recreation grant to develop the master plan for this trail system. The overall goals for the project include rerouting steep and unsustainable trail sections; adding easier trail experiences, more loop options and better signs; and maintaining existing trails.

“We continue to see an increase in trail usage in Mesa County. Whether your employees are starting out or hiking veterans, our team recommends staying off of trails when it’s muddy or wet this time of year,” Mittelman said.

For those just starting out in hiking trails, safety should remain the top priority. Check the forecast for inclement weather, pack water and snacks, select an appropriate trail type and length based on skill levels and let someone know beforehand where you’re headed and when you expect to return.

As more of your employees hit the trails, know our team remains hard at work creating more trail-based recreation opportunities in our area for everyone to enjoy. Our trail crew offers value to the community by maintaining and expanding a valuable resource.

Sarah Gray is a communication specialist with Mesa County Public Health. For additional information, call 248-6900 or visit https://health.mesacounty.us.

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Contributors Opinion Bold predictions for Democrats 2015 Once again, Colorado What goes into a name?

A new year Business affords are Briefs barking up the wrongrepeats tree more like not-so-bold A lot to get rosy results a new opportunity Business People Almanac to meet local needs THE he BUSINESS usiness T T Times IMES

PAGE age 22

I’ve often wondered what goes into naming names. I mean, how do business owners and managers — and, in some cases, the marketing folks who work for them — decide on the names of their ventures, products and services?

As William Shakespeare asked: “What’s in a name?

That which we call a rose by any other word would smell as sweet.”

A new year almost always brings an opportunity for a fresh start and That’s better. what I’m thinking. And why businesses that renewed ambition to do things word books in their names probably shouldn’t try In business, thatinclude usuallythe boils down to providing customers better products selling fishing tackle. and services faster and at lower cost than competitors. Part of the process must Then there’s the slogan theactually popularneed brandand of then jams that include listening to customers to determine whatfor they implies a sort of inverse correlation between the name of aif meeting that need. After all, it does little good to offer the latest and greatest company and the quality of its products. “With a name like nobody actually wants what you’re selling.

Smuckers, got totobethe good.”

Just like the businesses thatit’s belong group, the Grand Junction Area Some might recall how “Saturday Night Live” upped of the Chamber of Commerce invariably starts out the new year with a reassessment Phil Castle ante with its parody about even worse names for jam.

Names the services and resources it provides and how well they match with members I won’t repeat here.board of directors, needs. Jeff Franklin,so thehorrific new chairman of the them chamber I’m reminded of this in whole conundrum daily basis thefor assortment personifies this approach describing what on he aconsiders hisin role the coming of prescription drugs advertised on their television. can someone tellneeds. me why year: listen to members, determine needs And and then meet those It’s a the X, Y and Z show up so often in the wildly inventive for roleletters with which Franklin is familiar as market president of Banknames of Colorado. pharmaceutical The processproducts? will take on a more structured approach in what the chamber most endeavors, I suspectaptly there’s more to the process than readily plansAs aswith the resumption of a program called Listening to Business.

Under the meets the business eye. Probably a lot more. I’m it starts with thetobasics andbarriers taking to program, owners participate in sure in-depth interviews identify into account such problems factors asthey customers, competition and product appeal. The goal growth and other encounter. is to The come up year with offers namesathat aretime at once appealing, distinct and memorable. new good to join the proverbial club.

And As if they can evoke the desired emotions, so much the better. an advertiser or reader, what do you need from the Business Times?

Some come into play.

Combinggather two words into one, for example.

While tricks business journals traditionally and report the relevant newsLike to PayPal FedEx. Or using metaphors.

Long before street.

Nike was a brand of shoe, readers,orcommunication isn’t necessarily a one-way That’s especially trueshe as was winged Greekmake goddess for victory.

Amazon doesn’t necessarily describe Webthe sites and e-mail the dialogue more convenient than ever. whatGood the company does,don’t but itexist implies hugerespond and perhaps bit exotic. publications in a something vacuum. They to the aneeds of Then there’s the trick of using unique spellings.

Although as a newspaper advertisers and readers. They provide what’s needed. editor self-avowed grammar curmudgeon, I’m not a fan of that technique.

Soand what do you need?

Don’t me started oncoverage brand names that should start with a C and instead Is even thereget additional news that would help keep you informed about start a K. developments? Are there features that would be interesting or local with business As Is forthere the proprietary pharmaceutical products, the name of one useful? advice that names would of make your jobs a little easier? product can’t look or sound anything like the name of another product.

It’s equally important to ask what you don’t need. With limited timeIt’s to a safety issue.

Moreover, drugspace namesincan’t imply any medical claims bespace overlybe produce content and limited which to publish it, would timeorand promotional. way, theelse? letters X, Y and Z often appear in brand names better devotedBy to the something because theygood? apparently scientific sounding names.

What’s What create isn’t? What’s needed?

What isn’t?

I’ve often wondered if yet another approach to naming would work Let us know. Send us an e-mail. Comment online on thenames Business Times Web better.

It would certainly be more entertaining.

And here I’m referring to the site at www.thebusinesstimes.com. You could even write an old-fashioned letter to Japanese cars.

Like the Nissan Big Thumb.

Ornegative, Toyota Tank.

Or, of the editornames if you’dforlike.

Your feedback, both positive and is valued and course, the Mitsubishi Super Great. will be carefully considered.

Perhaps I should just up andofremain thankful I work Good publications areshut the result not only the efforts of for theira newspaper staffs, but also named simply enough the Business Times.

Although Super Great has a nice ring collaborative efforts involving advertisers and readers. to it.Like Doesn’t any it? other good business, we want to listen to our customers, find out what they need and then meet those needs.

Phil It’s Castle is editor of the Business a new year. Please help us toTimes. do so. Reach him at 424-5133 or phil@thebusinesstimes.com. ✦ 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. © 2024 — All rights reserved.

Well, I’ll be doggone. And soon enough, many dogofowners will be, too.

It’s that time year when But my doggone is because I don’t have resolutions and prognostications abound. aMy dog.

Yours?saying Because you do.

Just Year’s jot a favorite applied to New note in the back yourthey’re mind asbasically you read. resolutions is in of saying a You’ll be promises reading another column when bunch of to break the first week Colorado — and of January.Democrats And whilere-introduce I won’t predict a pass theI tyrannical of pet whole—lot, can pretty fleecing much accurately owners known asthat House Bill 24-1163. nail a few things without question thisthe fiasco ofYou will see these are will All make news. state will pretty,legislation well, predictable: create overcrowding ■isPrediction one: of our will already There be some overcrowded petevent, sort of weather shelters.

Along with natural disaster or such newoccurrence cottage heinous industry creations where someone will known as Leapin’ be interviewed and say Lizards Loving“I’ve Living the following: and theseen Peaceful never anything Parrots like thatPerfect in my Palace. Craig Hall Or chooseIt’s your of lifetime.” as pet if this Craig choice’s residence once you’reHall priced person isnew a required out of ownership for your own good. attendee at every — news You can bet yourWhile pet onIit. And you’llmost lose. reporting event. understand Don’t think so? can I guess yoube haven’t people’s perspective indeed limited been attention when camel’s by, orpaying contained within, theirthe own personal nose of government experiences, it is toopeeks much under to askthe to tent.

For which, of historical course, there will nowbefore be a consult some perspective fee on said saying suchcamel. a thing? Yes, this response can can’t believe have ittocomes write applyI really to some events.

ButIwhen this column.

Although this bill isI’m shelved to weather and natural disasters, pretty for it isn’t going away itself. surethe thismoment, is simply history repeating because headline is a little Same as my it has for millions andmisleading. millions of Fact the government is barking up theit! years.is,More important, the planet made right given thecertain number of pet How’s owners Whattree didn’t were species. in It’s too big a pile of money thatour forstate. perspective? for legislators to just past.

Naturally, ■ Prediction two:walk When it comes to a they keep theirthat hands off between of it. crimecan’t or something occurs To quote my favorite from humans, the other requiredphrase attendee at all “The — “There’s a lottawho money news Godfather” reporting events is the person in that $#!T, Pop.” Allow provide says this: “They we’re justme thetonicest you the and translation of what in people, in no way did I Democrats see something Denver actually sayingNo to law-abiding like this are coming.”

Exactly. one does pet “Heywhen taxpayer, not Fido, mostowners: of the time it comes to sit down and and shutacquaintances. up. Think of your dog.” neighbors People should Well, I don’t at like taxes or on shutting up. to be surprised what goes from time So to write this column.

Sadly, timeI have in their neighborhoods, towns andto Democrat in Denver, with people“leaders” they know because people people are are valued for two things— theirthey voteshouldn’t and good. And for the times that their tribute.— Inlike thiswith case,politicians, it’s just another be shocked repeat Democrat doing Democrat things named offenders and terrorists — where’s the Regina English. interview that says, “This doesn’t surprise Ms. English, this is about me inAnd the to least.” tribute shethree: got enough votesgood and ■ because Prediction Something therefore getseconomically, to do what she pleases. will happen and the As we all know, once voted office, politician government will takeinto credit for it.a The most knows, and can is do,gas everything.

If I had to recent example prices, where people guess, usingthe thispresident as her buy ask meMs. whyEnglish I won’tiscredit for into the mob running our state with a new, low gas prices.

My answer is simple: cool, payola scheme.

If it’sthe good enough Government never makes price of to move upgo in down the real mob, it’ll takes work credit with something and simply Democrats in our state capital.

Although for good news.

Gas pricing is subject to it’s being indefinitely,” many “postponed global factors.

Now theretrust are me.

Joey Bagadonuts is intothe wings ready to of government answers addressing some collect is passed. them towhen keep itprices stable for Americans, And it will passhas eventually, because but our government none of them in it’s a money maker from fees.

You can place.

The only things it has in place in the

ebruary 8-21, 2015 2024 JFANUARY 15-28,

raise “fees” on a whim sitting in the fat cat Denver you don’t need longseat runinalways hurtbecause consumers.

Another afact vote of the people. And reaches you canaexpect is that unemployment certain our those fees to every level“leaders” based on to theextend economy.

And while the pet in existence and then byisthe government might brag thecharge number low, pound. make you pay for it’s moreThen than they’ll likely the government did their disposal once that the government something to cause number beingissues low their certificate of death you when were — and not in a good way.because Conversely, forced pay to them.the Butpeople for businesstopicks up,register it’s because now, it’s just raining catswho and were dogs.not who need to buy widgets State Rep. English the bill’s buying widgets because stated the economy was original intent about (or creating a contracting duewas to natural unnatural, “contingency plan” for people who have government caused) reasons, decided we the nerve outlive theirThe usefulness of better buyto some widgets. government paying tribute in society had nothing to and do with this. in general known as senior citizens.

It was also ■ Prediction four: In keeping withabout first responders’ safetydoes, so “pets” could things the government I predict thebe identified aswill “aggressive” a specially government manipulatewith the numbers to colored know is which pet to make thecollar claimsothethey economy getting shoot I know myhard Lunait is—working my kitten better first. because of how to from Roice — always aggressively help all of usHurst “working Americans.”

Now sniffs everyone comingyou to always my home. you might say, “Craig, say this So it’sPresident not gonna end well for Luna when about Obama because you don’t they finally comeright to get like him.”

You’re in me. a sense. I don’t important is how do I know knowMore the man, but what I know of him and Ms. English isn’t being and it’s his thinking, I don’t likehonest it or him oneabout iota. the money MyI didn’t experience Before youand go her off,career? however, like says most Bush seniorsand andhis law-abiding pet lovers President bailouts, stimulus would the fee, however and hispay abandoning the freedistasteful market toand save wrong knowAnd it is.IAdd that Ms. the freethey market. don’ttoknow him English knows an earnerdoes, for the either. What thebeing government andmob the goes longitway leadership.

Then she only athing canwith do, is hurt the economy. made all-caring victim with in Unlessherself it doesthenothing or put criminals this beauty: of “I would neverwith intentionally jail instead partnering them, nothing want a piece of legislation going tolook the government does will that’s help. Always overburden, andthe putgovernment the people ofsays at it this way,overtax whatever Colorado financial distress. it is doing,inwhatever the nameI didn’t of the know law it that it was going to get all backlash.

And is passing, or whatever thethename or goal of you know, peopleitwishing death on me, and the bureaucracy is presenting to the wishing I wouldthe diepolar with opposite the bill isto quite people, expect occur. alarming.

So what I don’tI’m takesaying that lightly.”

I guess is that But it’s youtime did take lightly, perhaps to getit out of our own Ms. English.There’s You intentionally introduced perspective. plenty of history this billand knowing its ramifications on the books historical research out there to budgets the peoplethat of all Colorado begin to of understand of this — hasand for state coffers. youagain, added happened before.And Andthen it will on with this load of “I always whether the topic is kibble: people or government. take The things as recommendation a learning experience, best is to find and grow and continue somethere’s booksroom or trytothat whole Google to evolve into an even greater leader thing.

There’s a lot of information on the and continue to represent theispeople of Great Depression.

The truth it wasn’t Colorado.” break to you, even a goodHate one to until the itgovernment got Ms. English, but you involved.

There’s alsoaren’t plentyrepresenting of research most Thiswarm legislation you on thepeople. medieval periodmakes when the many but awarmer leader isn’t planetthings, was much than one. todayThat’s with all in your mind. (and warmer well a whole lotelitist less people And then Ms. English before man was here at all).added And this yep, carrot no,been not for your other bunnysurprised — of people— have killing wisdom: “This wasn’twas an first attack on pet people since history written. owners, not some by a long shot.”will Buthelp I betstop Maybe research your will be.

After all,we’ll pet owners all ofnext thesebill trends.

Otherwise, be are nowwe’ve a danger to seen society.

Unlesslike they saying never anything it in can our pony lives. up, Andthat notis. in a good way.

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

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

F ✦

February 8-21, 2024

The Business Times

Page 23

U.S. homeownership Energy production expands under an overt attack despite hostile policy climate In the early days of American history, society was primarily agrarian. Private land ownership was a cornerstone of U.S. culture and specifically protected by the Constitution. Farmers owned land and homes built on the land.

In the early 1800s, people needed a lump sum to purchase a home because banks wouldn’t lend money to average individuals to buy homes. Home mortgages didn’t become readily available until the 20th century. These early Phyllis mortgages were as Hunsinger short as five years and could be renegotiated annually.

When home mortgages were structured differently, the housing market boomed.

Half of Americans owned their homes by 1950. The law of supply and demand controlled the market. As the demand for housing increased, so did prices.

According to an article on the Zebra, an insurance comparison website, titled “How Housing Has Changed Since 1960,” homes have become less affordable.

In 1960, 68 out of 100 Americans could afford a home. Today, only 43 out of 100 can afford one.

According to an article by J.D. Roth on the Get Rich Slowly personal finance website titled “A Brief History of U.S. Homeownership,” the largest decrease in the number of households owning their own homes in the U.S. occurred between December 2007 and June 2009 — a period generally referred to as the Great Recession.

Individuals and financial institutions took on too much debt. Financial institutions developed risky lending practices. To qualify for mortgages, many individuals accepted mortgages with balloon payments.

When larger payments came due, borrowers couldn’t afford their payments. Foreclosures increased. Banks lost money.

The end result was different for banks than for homeowners who lost their homes. The U.S. government bailed out financial institutions. Carol Roth, author of “You Will Own Nothing,” was quoted in the New York Times Magazine: “From 2007 to 2011, 4.7 million households lost homes to foreclosure and a million more to short sale. Private equity firms developed new ways to secure credit, enabling them to leverage their equity and acquire an astonishing number of homes.”

According to Roth, this epic transfer of wealth put a glut of foreclosed homes into the market, upsetting the balance between supply and demand.

Overbuilding prior to the recession and foreclosures during the recession resulted in a cycle of underbuilding from 2010 to 2019. This contributed to the escalating home prices of today.

Roth said institutional landlords never existed until 2010, when large corporations bought foreclosed homes and turned them into rental units. She said this practice continues. Data for the fourth quarter of 2021 reveals corporations bought 80,000 homes — about 18 percent of single-family homes sold during that quarter.

Today, potential homebuyers contend with wages that don’t keep up with inflation, making saving for down payments and affording mortgages difficult. Large corporate buyers that have access to capital make daunting competitors for individual homebuyers.

A June 2023 report by Caitlyn Young, Amalie Zinn and Jung Hyun Choi for the Urban Institute examined the benefits of homeownership. Among them were a sense of anchored community, tax breaks, enhanced opportunities to build credit and stable monthly payments. Beyond home appreciation, homeownership provides financial benefits unique to the U.S., such as mortgage interest deduction, 30-year fixed-rate mortgages and the ability to refinance without a penalty.

Despite the advantages of homeownership, the hurdles become higher. Data reported by the Urban Institute from the American Community Survey and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development show median home price to median income ratios have gone up significantly, making homeownership more challenging even for those who earn moderate incomes.

High home prices require high down payments. Interest rates are higher, too.

Government interference — allowing bank subsidies, devaluing the dollar by printing money to accommodate spiraling debt, artificially increasing or decreasing interest rates and imposing costly regulations — distorts the market. Citizens lose homebuying opportunities.

In a free market, the forces of supply and demand determine the price of housing. Homeownership offers the easiest way for average workers to create wealth. The bedrock of the American Dream is homeownership. The American people should be concerned about this overt attack on their financial lives and the security of their futures.

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

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

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I’ve long been amazed at the entrepreneurs, businesses, employees and investors who produce the energy upon which our economy depends. They not only push ahead with innovations, investments and production, but also have been doing so in a largely hostile policy climate for most of the past 15 years.

As reported by the U.S. Energy Information Administration, dry natural gas production in the lower 48 states reached an all-time monthly high of 105.5 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) in December 2023, according to data from S&P Global Commodity Insights. The overall annual production average hit a record high of 102.2 Bcf/d in 2023.

On the crude oil front, a Dec. 19, 2023, CNN report noted: “The United States is set to produce a global record of 13.3 million barrels per day of crude and condensate during the fourth quarter of this year, according to a report published

by S&P Global Commodity Insights. Last month, Raymond Tuesday weekly U.S. oil production hit 13.2 million barrels per day, Keating according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

That’s just above the Donald Trump-era record of 13.1 million set in early 2020 just before the COVID-19 crisis sent output and prices crashing.”

For good measure, the EIA reported in October U.S. crude oil exports hit a record high in the first half of 2023. Reuters noted: “U.S. liquefied natural gas exports hit monthly and annual record highs in December, tanker tracking data showed, with analysts saying it positioned the United States to leapfrog Qatar and Australia to become the largest exporter of LNG in 2023.” As the EIA noted, total natural gas exports hit a record high in the first half of 2023.

How did the Joe Biden When the Biden administration react to this unabashedly good news? administration and some It announced on Jan. 26 it would in Congress attack delay approval of any natural gas export terminals. Ironically, President the U.S. energy sector, Biden declared, “We will not cede they’re attacking small to special interests.” Of course, the businesses. According president’s announcement is fully to the latest data from driven by his pandering to special interests while ignoring the economy the U.S. Census Bureau and national security interests. for 2021, 96 percent of And make no mistake. When firms in the oil and gas the Biden administration and some in Congress attack the U.S. energy extraction sector have sector, they’re attacking small fewer than 100 employees. businesses. According to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau for 2021, 96 percent of employer firms in the oil and gas extraction sector have fewer than 100 employees. And in the support activities for oil and gas operations sector, 96 percent of employer firms have fewer than 100 workers.

Energy producers have made the U.S. the top energy producer on the planet, and with that comes additional economic, income and job growth. The Biden administration responded by trying to punish the small businesses and workers who innovate and work in the energy sector.

Questions remain, of course. Will the political attacks on U.S. energy production persist? While these anti-U.S. energy regulatory costs and signals certainly have restrained investment, will it get worse? And will assorted elected officials continue to ignore sound economics in favor of pandering politics?

A better question: Why not support U.S. energy production to the benefit of individuals, families and small businesses across the economy?

Raymond Keating is chief economist for the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council. The nonpartisan, nonprofit advocacy, education and research organization works to protect small business and promote entrepreneurship.

For additional information, log on https://sbecouncil.org.

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

Page 24

Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac

n ALPINE BANKS OF COLORADO REPORTS NET INCOME FOR FOURTH QUARTER AND 2023

Alpine Banks of Colorado, the holding company for Alpine Bank, reported net income of $11 million for the fourth quarter and $57 million for 2023.

Fourth-quarter income amounted to $102.26 per basic Class A common share and 68 cents per basic Class B common share, the company reported.

“December 31st marked the finale of the 50th anniversary celebration for Alpine Banks Glen Jammaron of Colorado. We have been proud to serve the people of Colorado for the last 50 years and look forward to what comes ahead,” said Glen Jammaron, president and vice chairman of Alpine Bank.

“Amid our anniversary celebration events and a challenging environment for all bankers, Alpine has been creating our Vision 2030 plan to guide us into the future,” Jammaron said. “Alpine continues to benefit from a strong customer deposit base by operating as a true community bank. In fact, over 90 percent or our deposit funding is generated from within our local communities.”

A $6.5 billion, employee-owned organization headquartered in Glenwood Springs, Alpine Bank operates locations across Colorado.

For additional information, visit www.alpinebank.com. n CITY OF GRAND JUNCTION SCHEDULES HIRING EVENTS TO FILL SEASONAL POSITIONS

The City of Grand Junction has scheduled two seasonal job hiring events.

The events are set for 2 to 6 p.m. Feb. 13 and April 9 at the Lincoln Park Barn, located at 910 N. 12th St. Participants will have an opportunity to apply for seasonal jobs with the city; interview; and, if selected, receive conditional job offers on the spot.

The city is recruiting seasonal workers for a variety of positions, including events staff, golf and facilities maintenance, horticulture, irrigation maintenance, life guards, sports officials, summer camp leaders, turf maintenance and urban forestry.

The positions involve different skill levels as well as qualification and age requirements. Candidates will be assessed for related experience and skills.

Interested candidates may apply online at www.gjcity.org/jobs.

More information is available by sending an email to hr@gjcity.org.

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

Timberline Bank headquartered in Grand Junction has earned recognition as one of the top regional banks in the United States.

Timberline Bank was included among America’s best regional banks and credit unions for 2024 in a ranking compiled

by Newsweek magazine and Plant-A Insights Group, a market data research firm.

“As we celebrate our 20-year anniversary as a locally owned and operated community bank, it is a true honor to be recognized

by Newsweek as Jeff Taets one of the top 250 regional banks in the United States,” said Jeff Taets, co-chief executive offier of Timberline Bank.

“We believe in fostering genuine connections with our customers and employees, and this recognition is a testimony to that mission,” Taets said. “We remain committed to redefining the way banking is experienced, and we are excited to continue this path with the support of our incredible community and employees.”

The ranking of the top 250 regional banks and top 250 credit unions took into account profitability, financial relevance and overall health and stability.

Social media reviews also were considered.

Timberline Bank also has received recognition from the U.S. Small Business Administration as a rural lender.

Timberline Bank was among 50 firms to receive 2016 awards in the Colorado Companies to Watch program.

In addition to its location at 649 Market St. in Grand Junction, Timberline Bank operates locations in Aspen and Montrose. For more information, call (970) 683-5560 or log on to www.timberlinebank.com.

n GRAND VALLEY RANCHING OPERATION WINS NATIONAL BEEF QUALITY AWARD A ranching operation based in the Grand Valley is among the latest winners of national awards recognizing animal care and handling principles as part of day-to-day activities.

The VanWinkle Ranch received a National Beef Quality Assurance Award in the cow-calf category. The awards, funded in part by the beef checkoff program and sponsored by Cargill, were presented during the CattleCon24 beef industry conference in Florida.

A committee of representatives from universities, state beef councils and affiliated groups selected National Beef Quality Assurance Award winners. Contest entrants must demonstrate their commitment to improving their operations while also encouraging others to implement the producer education program.

The VanWinkle family oversees a cow-calf operation, selling calves to feedlots as well as beef directly to consumers. Their operation includes not only the property at their home near Fruita, but also property they lease east of Whitewater as well as federal grazing allotments on the Grand Mesa and Uncompahgre Plateau.

Janie VanWinkle and her husband, Howard, have belonged to the Colorado Cattlemen’s Association for more than 30 years.

Janie VanWinkle served on the CCA board of directors, including a term as president. Colorado Parks & Wildlife honored the VanWinkle Ranch as the CCA 2019 Landowner of the Year for efforts to improve resources that also benefit wildlife. n COLORADO HR CONNECTION SCHEDULES FREE WEBINAR ON INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS The Colorado HR Connection has scheduled a free webinar on changes to rules on classifying independent contractors.

The webinar is set for 11 a.m. to noon Feb. 27 and will cover rules, benefit and insurance responsibilities and independent contractor status in staffing agencies.

To register or obtain more information, contact Kelly Murphy at Lighthouse HR Support at (970) 243-7789 or kelly@lhrs.net.

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Keynote speaker announced for women’s conference Kelly Brough — a woman who’s held executive positions with educational, business and government entities — is scheduled to deliver the keynote presentation at an upcoming conference.

The Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce has scheduled its 2024 women’s conference for 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. March 13 at the Colorado Mesa University Center ballroom in Grand Junction.

Kelly Brough Tickets sell for $80 for chamber members, $125 for others. Tables for 10 are available for $750 for chamber members and $1,200 for others. For tickets or more information,

February 8-21, 2024

visit https://fruitachamber.org/womens-conference-beyond-a-boss.

Brough serves as vice president of strategic partnerships for CMU. She led the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce as its first woman chief executive officer from 2009 and 2021. She previously served as both the director of human resources for the City of Denver and chief of staff for then Mayor John Hickenlooper.

The theme for the conference is “Beyond a Boss” — reflecting women who not only excel in their careers, but also embody qualities that distinguish them as exceptional people.

In addition to Brough’s keynote presentation, the conference will feature two tracks of breakout sessions as well as multiple panel presentations.

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February 8-21, 2024

The Business Times

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Opinion Business Briefs Briefs Business Business People People Almanac Business Almanac

n BRAY DIRECTOR NAMED HBA PRESIDENT, DIGITAL MEDIA COORDINATOR JOINS FIRM

Kevin Bray, director of development at Bray & Co. Real Estate, is the new president of the Housing and Building Association of Western Colorado.

Kendra Hill joined Bray & Co. as digital media coordinator.

“I am honored to step in as the new president of the HBA and aim to continue to build on the guiding principle that homeownership should Kevin Bray be within the reach of every American family,” Bray said.

Bray has belonged to the HBA for more than two decades and brings to his new role experience in the building industry in Western Colorado.

A not-for-profit organization with more than 150 business members, the HBA strives to advance the building industry in Mesa, Delta and Montrose Kendra Hill counties.

Hill will bring to her work with the marketing department at Bray & Co. experience in social media management and event coordination. She graduated from Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction.

Bray & Co. provides a range of services related to residential and commercial real estate, property management and construction. For more information, call 242-3647 or visit www.brayandco.com. n COLORADO DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE ANNOUNCES NEXT BRAND COMMISSIONER Todd Inglee has been named brand commissioner for the Colorado Department of Agriculture Brand Inspection Division.

The division protects livestock producers and lenders, tracks livestock movement and facilitates the return of stolen or stray livestock. Inglee is only the seventh brand commissioner in the Todd Inglee history of an organization established in 1865.

Inglee previously served as executive director of the Colorado Beef Council Authority and worked with public and private contractors in promoting the beef industry in the state.

He founded and operated Ralston Valley Beef, a private label branded beef business and worked as trade media manager for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. He served as president of the Colorado Cattlemen’s Association from 2017 to 2018.

“Colorado brand laws are respected across the nation, and I’m honored to be joining such a historic and reputable organization as the broad board,” Inglee said. “I look forward to continuing to serve the industry and provide livestock owners with the representation, protection and service they need.”

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The Business Times welcomes submissions for free publication in Business People and the Almanac calendar of events. Submissions may be emailed to phil@thebusinesstimes.com or submitted online at the website located at www.thebusinesstimes.com. n GRAND JUNCTION RESIDENTS APPOINTED TO STATE BOARDS David Thurow and Barbara Bowman of Grand Junction have been appointed to state boards.

Thurow was among eight new appointees to the Colorado Workforce Development Council. Thurow is a principal of Prosono, a social impact advisory firm. He represents business on the council.

The council advices, oversees and David Thurow integrates the work of the Colorado talent development network to meet the needs of employers and workers across the state.

Bowman was appointed to the Scenic and Historic Byways Commission as a representative of the Transportation Commission of Colorado. Bowman represents an 11-county region of Western Colorado that includes Mesa County on the Barbara Bowman transportation commission.

The Scenic and Historic Byways Commission works with state, federal and private organizations to assist in the development of byways management plans and coordinate funding for byways improvements. n ALPINE BANK SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT RECEIVES 40 UNDER 40 AWARD Susana Salamun, a senior vice president with Alpine Bank, has been named to the Denver Business Journal 2024 class of 40 Under 40 winners.

Salamun is the first Alpine Bank employee to receive the award, which recognizes young professionals making a difference.

Salamun joined Alpine Bank in 2013 and has worked in positions in Susana Salamun electronic banking, risk management and community inclusion and engagement. She now serves as director of staff development. She also serves on various boards and organizations.

A $6.5 billion, employee-owned organization headquartered in Glenwood Springs, Alpine Bank operates locations across Colorado. For additional information, visit www.alpinebank.com.

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February 8-21, 2024

Feb. 8 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m., Habitat for Humanity ReStore, 2936 North Ave, Grand Junction. Admission $5 for chamber members, $15 for others. 858-3894 or https://fruitachamber.org Feb. 9 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business vision board party, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., The Muse, 160 S. Park Square, Fruita. Admission $15 for chamber members, $30 for others.

858-3894 or https://fruitachamber.org Feb. 13 n Palisade Chamber of Commerce free lunch and learn presentation on financing options for small businesses, noon to 1 p.m., location to be determined. www.palisadecoc.com or 464-7458 n Class on completing the Colorado Department of Revenue sales tax return, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., Business Incubator Center, 2591 Legacy Way, Grand Junction. https://gjincubator.org or 243-5242 Feb. 14 n Young Professional Network of Mesa County business before hours, 7 to 8:30 a.m., Mountain Air Roasters Coffee, 126 N. Seventh St., Grand Junciton. www.ypnmc.org Feb. 16 n Coffee Club free networking meeting, 9 to 10 a.m., FWorks, 325 E. Aspen Ave. https://gjincubator.org or https://fruitachamber.org Feb. 20 n Initial meeting to discuss the development of a rural business improvement district in Palisade, 8 to 10 a.m., Wine Country Inn, 777 Grande River Drive. www.palisadecoc.com or 464-7458 n Class on cash flow budgeting using Microsoft Excel, noon to 1 p.m., Business Incubator Center. 243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org Feb. 21 n Young Professional Network of Mesa County lunch conversation with Phillip P'ea, vice president at Central Distributing, noon to 1 p.m., 3244 F 1/2 Road, Clifton. www.ypnmc.org n Palisade Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m., Wine Country Inn. Advance admission $5 for chamber member and $8 for others, $6 for members at the door and $10 for others. 464-7458 or https://palisadecoc.com Upcoming n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce trip to the Colorado Legislature in Denver, Feb. 22 and 23. https://gjchamber.org or 242-3214 n Welcome Thursday Friends networking meeting, noon to 1 p.m. Feb. 22, Camilla’s Kaffe, 206 E. Aspen Ave, Fruita. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 n Colorado HR Connection free webinar on changes to independent contractor rules, 11 a.m. to noon, Feb. 27. kelly@lhrs.net or 243-7789 See ALMANAC page 27

February 8-21, 2024

Almanac

Continued from page 26 Upcoming n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce members only business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Feb. 27, Colorado Mesa University Tech, 2508 Blichmann Ave. Admission $10 in advance, $12 at the door. 242-3214 or https://gjchamber.org n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce annual banquet, 5:30 to 11:30 p.m. March 1, Grand Junction Convention Center, 159 Main St. https://gjchamber.org or 242-3214 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business networking luncheon, noon to 1 p.m. March 7, Copper Club Brewing Co., 153 N Mulberry St, Fruita.

Admission $15 for chamber members, $30 for others. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894

The Business Times

n Palisade Chamber of Commerce annual banquet, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. March 8, Ordinary Fellow Winery, 202 Peach Ave. Admission $85 for chamber members, $105 for others, $800 for a table for 10 members. 464-7458 or https://palisadecoc.com n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce women’s conference, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. March 13, Colorado Mesa University Center ballroom, Grand Junction. Tickets $80 for chamber members, $125 for others. Tables for 10 available for $750 for chamber members and $1,200 for others. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce Networking at Noon, noon March 13, Enzo’s Ristorante Italiano, 707 Horizon Drive. Admission $20 for chamber members, $25 for others.https://gjchamber.org or 242-3214

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n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce Networking at Noon, noon April 10, Be Sweet Cafe & Bakeshop, 150 W. Main St., Suite C. Admission $20 for members, $25 for others. https://gjchamber.org or 242-3214 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m. April 11, Colorado Mesa University Tech. Admission $5 for chamber members, $15 for others. 858-3894 or https://fruitachamber.org n Western Colorado Economic Summit, April 16, Colorado Mesa University. www.gjep.org/wces n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce State of the Valley presentation, noon to 2 p.m. May 8, Grand Junction Convention Center. Admission $25 for chamber members, $30 for others. https://gjchamber.org or 242-3214 F

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The Business Times

February 8-21, 2024