A new study estimates the economic effects of outdoor recreation businesses and tourism in Mesa County.
Visit Grand Junction received statewide recognition for its marketing efforts for a series of TV episodes and commercials.
Candidates vying in local, state and national races addressed business-related issues at a Grand Valley event.
The U.S. economy likely will slip into a recession, but a short and shallow one, according to a new forecast.
The unemployment rate retreated in Mesa County as payrolls grew and the ranks of the unemployed shrank.
Two young professionals share their perspectives about quiet quitting and boundaries in the workplace.
Candace Carnahan has been hired as president and chief executive officer of the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce. It’s a role she compares to an orchestra conductor who positions people to bring out the best performances.
Photo courtesy Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce
Outdoor recreation contributes more than $484 million a year to the Mesa County economy and accounts for nearly 10,000 jobs, according to the results of a unique study conducted by researchers at Colorado Mesa University.
Candace Carnahan expects her new role with the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce to vary with the situation. A leader, to be sure. But also an advocate and collaborator.
Moreover, outdoor recreation businesses are diverse — more like a broad trade group than single industry sector — and include retail, manufacturing and other components.
If Carnahan were to choose a single metaphor to describe her role, though, it would be an orchestra conductor. One who puts the best people in the best positions to bring out their best performances.
In turn, that makes the collective and individual successes of local businesses music to her ears.
“I’m very humbled to have this opportunity and excited to see where we go with it,” she says.
The chamber board of directors voted to hire Carnahan as president and chief executive officer.
Nathan Perry
“There’s a lot of business diversity in the outdoor trade group,” said Nathan Perry, an associate professor of economics at CMU and lead author.
The study is the first outdoor recreation economic impact study conducted on a county level in the United States, Perry said. As such, the study could serve as model for research conducted elsewhere.
While the study only estimates the economic effects of outdoor recreation, Perry said the results reflect the significant role of recreation in accounting for more than 7 percent of the value of goods and services produced in Mesa County and one in 10 jobs. “It’s such a big deal here.”
Perry presented the results at a meeting in Grand Junction that also attracted representatives from statewide and local outdoor recreation and economic development groups.
Perry also discussed the findings in an interview with the Business Times.
He said he’s long wanted to conduct a study to estimate the economic effects of outdoor recreation in Mesa County, but until recently was busy with other projects.
Perry joined with Tim Casey, a professor of political science and head of the Natural Resource Center at CMU, and Johnny Snyder, a professor of computer information systems at CMU, to conduct the study. They received funding from the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade and Zoma Labs.
The study involved two parts, Perry said, in estimating the economic effects of outdoor recreation businesses as well as outdoor recreation tourism.
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Her selection concluded a search for a successor to Diane Schwenke, who retired after working more than 30 years in the position.
Carnahan has worked for the chamber more than seven years, the last year as vice president. Before that, she worked as director of programs as well as events and program manager. Prior to joining the chamber in 2015, she worked in several management roles in the hospitality industry.
“With Candace’s experience at the chamber as well as her extensive background leading and developing teams, creating and maintaining programs and driving business success, she brings a unique skill set to the role,” says Ivan Geer, chairman of the chamber board.
See MUSIC page 22
STORY BY PHIL CASTLEThe destination marketing organization of the City of Grand Junction has received statewide recognition for its efforts.
Visit Grand Junction received the outstanding marketing program award presented at the Colorado Governor’s Tourism Conference in Snowmass.
release, the three episodes have garnered more than 37 million views.
The series highlighted the outdoor recreation opportnities and landscapes of the Grand Valley through stories about Colorado residents overcoming physical and mental barriers. The episodes also included a total of six commercials for Grand Junction
“The six commercials we filmed included Grand Junction locals, which made this project even more special and authentic,” Fogarty said.
Elizabeth Fogarty“We couldn’t be more delighted,” said Elizabeth Fogarty, director of Visit Grand Junction. “This achievement recognizes the support and effort from our community while rewarding the hard work and expertise of the Visit Grand Junction advisory board and staff.”
The award recognized three episodes Visit Grand Junction created for the Outside TV series titled “Park2Park.” Since their
The three-day Colorado Governor’s Tourism Conference brought together tourism professionals from around the state to discuss destination management, emerging trends and tourism advocacy. The awards program recognized industry leaders for their efforts.
Candace Carnahan has been hired as president and chief executive officer of the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce. She previously worked for the chamber as vice president and director of programs and marketing. (Photo courtesy Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce)
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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 do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, editor, staff or advertisers.
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 © 2015 — All rights reserved.
Copyright © 2022 — All rights reserved
stuff done party, I’d be in that party.”
Phil Castle The Business TimesCandidates vying in local, state and national races in the upcoming election answered a range of questions at an event hosted by the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce.
Frank Whidden brings what he considers a well-rounded perspective to his new job as Mesa County administrator.
Labor shortages, energy policies and water scarcity were among the issues they discussed.
Whidden worked in information technology and holds a master’s degree in computer information systems. But he also holds a doctoral degree in applied management and decision making and worked for more than 20 years as a minister. Whidden has worked for large and small organizations in both the private and public sectors.
as well as New England and Canada.
Here, at a glance, are the election matchups for candidates who participated in the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce forum:
n Mesa County Commission
Bobbie Daniel — R
Charles Pink — D
n House District 54
AliceMarie Salve-Emond — D
Asked to identify what they consider the most pressing issues, Davis and Soper cited labor shortages and the difficulties employers face in finding workers.
Soper said the lack of accessibility and cost of child care has exacerbated the problem, as has the retirement of older workers.
Rich and Taggart cited increasing business regulation and taxation.
Frank WhiddenWhidden said people who work in information technology aren’t just “geeks,” but offer an important perspective because they’re familiar with nearly every aspect of operations and how work gets done. They also tend to think about new and potentially better ways of doing things in asking and answering “what if” questions. “They know how to effect change in an organization.”
The event featured a total of eight candidates vying for five seats. Republican Bobbie Daniel faces Charles Pink for election to the Mesa County Commission in District 2. Democrat AliceMarie Salve-Emond faces Republican Matt Soper for election to the Colorado House of Representatives in District 54. Democrat Damon Davis faces Republican Rick Taggart for election to the Colorado House of Representatives in District 55. Republican Janice Rich faces Democrat David Stahlke for election to the Colorado Senate in District 7. Democrat Adam Frisch faces Republican Lauren Boebert for election to the U.S. House of Representatives in Colorado’s Third District.
Matt Soper — R
n House District 55
Stahlke said an alternative route is needed to address closures of Interstate Highway 70 through Glenwood Canyon.
Whidden expects to draw on all of his experiences in helping Mesa County commissioners make and carry out decisions.
Whidden expects to bring that same approach to his duties as administrator.
Damon Davis — D
Rick Taggart — R
n Senate District 7
Janice Rich — R
David Stahlke — D
n Third Congressional District
Adam Frisch — D
Lauren Boebert — R
Whidden said it’s his role to help county commissioners make and then implement decisions. The commissioners in turn represent the residents of the county and express their will, he said. “We work for the people.”
Frisch said the first thing he’d do if elected is join the Problem Solvers Caucus in Congress and find ways to work across political aisles to address issues.
Asked to discuss energy policies, most of the candidates said they support an all-of-the-above approach.
Taggart said fossil fuels remain critical, but he also favors renewable and nuclear energy. “At a state level we need to support all of this.”
Salve-Emond declined to participate in the chamber forum. Boebert, the incumbent, didn’t attend because Congress was in session.
Whidden said he also considers himself a liaison between the commissioners and county staff, and one of the priorities is to make sure employees feel valued. Whidden said he hopes not only to improve morale, but also take steps that will make Mesa County an organization for which people want to work.
The candidates mentioned their backgrounds and experiences as well as some of their goals during brief opening statements.
Valuing staff and making the county an employer of choice is among the priorities, Whidden said. So is planning that results in sustainable funding and balanced budgets on a long-term basis.
Rich cited her experience as a Mesa County clerk and treasurer and state representative. She said all but one of the legislative measures of which she was a sponsor were enacted.
Meanwhile, Mesa County will continue to pursue efforts that promote a friendly business environment and economic development, Whidden said.
Stahlke said he his work in information technology has taught him the importance of collaboration and consensus as well as the pursuit of real world solutions.
Davis said all energy sources are needed now, but he supported a transition to clean energy sources. There’s a lot of potential, he said, for solar energy in Colorado.
The candidates also agreed the scarcity of water presents a pressing problem to address.
“Water is the most important thing we have in Western Colorado,” Soper said. He called for funding and implementing the Colorado Water Plan providing a framework for short-term and long-term water planning throughout the state.
“Water is a huge deal,” Stahlke said, calling for the more efficient use of water and conservation measures.
Whidden officially began working as county administrator at the beginning of the year. He succeeds Tom Fisher, who was hired as county manager in Summit County, Utah.
Meanwhile, Whidden expects the county to continue policies and initiatives that support local business and economic development. There are additional steps that can be taken to make it easier for local businesses to sell products and services to the county, he added.
Taggart mentioned his experience as a corporate executive as well as his service on the Grand Junction City Council and local boards.
Davis, a lawyer, said he grew up in Mesa County and remains committed to building a better community. He also cited his support for affordable housing, environmental protections, the middle class and unions.
Davis called for more efficient irrigation as well as landscaping restrictions to conserve water. Rich called for more storage.
Mesa County will keep working with other government entities, organizations and institutions on fostering an environment that supports existing businesses and attracts new businesses, he said.
Taggart said the Colorado River Compact delineating water use among Colorado and lower basin states should be renegotiated.
Daniel said she’d oppose any efforts to transfer more water to the Front Range of Colorado or lower basin states. “We need to make sure the water we have here stays here.”
Soper cited his record as a state legislator defending farms, protecting water and bringing funding to Western Colorado.
Whidden joined Mesa County in August 2011 as information technology director. In April 2014, he became deputy county administrator for resource management in a staffing reorganization that eliminated four director positions.
Pink said he’s not a politician, but would promote more balanced energy policies, outdoor recreation, responsible development and water conservation.
Before joining Mesa County, Whidden worked for a company providing information technology services to colleges and universities. In that role, he managed IT systems and services for institutions in Alabama, Arizona, Illinois
Whidden said there could be a opportunities to encourage the additional development of businesses that provide services to the agricultural industry as well as promote Mesa County as a distribution center for the region.
Daniel said she’ll listen and collaborate to address issues.
“We’re problem solving from Day One.”
Frisch described himself as a business owner and former member of the Aspen City Council who’s more interested in solving problems than political affiliations. “If there was a get
Pink said educational efforts are needed to help conserve water, but lower basin states should be held more accountable for water use.
In their short closing statements, several candidates called for a more unified effort to address issues as well as more engagement in the process.
The important thing is to consider issues from a well-rounded perspective, Whidden said. “We won’t be myopic as we look at things.”
Pink said the answers provided at forum demonstrated there was common ground. “We’re not that divided.”
Daniel invited the public to participate. “It’s your government. We work for you. I want to partner with you.”
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Rents have increased in Mesa County for multi- and single-family housing, a new report confirms.
Median rental rates for the multi-family market rose 22.2 percent between the first and second quarters of 2022. Median rental rates rose 3.6 percent for the single-family market during that span.
Bray & Co. Real Estate released the rental report to add to the information the Grand Junction-based firm provides on residential and commercial sales. “With the release of this new report, we are excited to close the information gap on the rental market for Mesa County,” said Michelle Urlacher, president of Bray & Co.
The report is based on information about the portfolio of rental property the company manages.
According to the report, monthly rental rates in the singlefamily market for the second quarter ranged from $1,040 for twobedroom units to $1,800 for four-bedroom units. The median rate for all units was $1,450. Calculated on a per square foot basis, rental rates increased 3.27 percent from the first to the second quarters.
The increase in rents was more pronounced in the multifamily market. Monthly rates for the second quarter ranged from $1,050 for one-bedroom units to $1,600 for four-bedroom units. The median rate for all units was $1,100. Calculated on a per square foot basis, rental rates increased 20.7 percent from the first to the second quarters.
Michelle UrlacherSales tax collections, an indicator of retail activity, continue to trend upward in the Grand Valley.
The City of Grand Junction reported a 5.8 percent increase in sales tax collections in August compared to the same month last year. Mesa County reported a 7.3 percent gain on a year-over-year basis.
Grand Junction lodging tax collections, a measure of hotel and motel stays, advanced 2.5 percent.
August reports reflect July sales.
The city collected more than $5.2 million in sales taxes and received another $975,000 as its share of sales taxes collected by the county and distributed back to municipalities.
The city also collected more than $1 million in sales taxes earmarked for public safety and first responders.
The city collected more than $128,000 in use taxes, a smaller and more volatile source of revenue.
Mesa County collected more than $4.1 million in sales taxes and more than $415,000 in use taxes, nearly all of that imposed on automobiles purchased outside the county, but used in the county.
County tax collections on retail sales topped $2.4 million in August, a 5.5 percent gain over the same month last year.
Sales tax collections rose 28.8 percent
for the oil and natural gas category, 19.7 percent in construction and 15.5 percent for manufacturing. Collections edged up a half percent for restaurant meals and hotel stays.
Through the first eight months of 2022, the city collected a total of nearly $50.3 million in sales and use taxes. Sales tax collections rose 10.1 percent compared to the same span in 2021. Use tax collections increased 66.5 percent.
Mesa County collected a total of nearly $35 million in sales and use taxes through the first eight months of 2022. Sales tax collections rose 10.2 percent compared to the same span last year, Use tax collections increased 9.2 percent.
County tax collections on retail sales topped $19.2 million, a 6.6 percent gain. Sales tax collections also increased on a year-over-year basis for every other industry sector with the lone exception of a 16.5 percent decline in the finance category.
The city collected more than $441,000 in lodging taxes in August. For the first eight months of 2022, lodging tax collections topped $3 million. That was a 33.8 percent increase over the same span in 2021.
The United States economy likely will slip into recession, but a short and shallow one, according to a forecast from a think tank tracking a variety of indicators.
A recession also is expected in Europe along with slowing in China, said Dana Peterson, chief economist of the Conference Board based in New York.
Erik Lundh, principal economist at the Conference Board, said the U.S. economy likely will contract in the fourth quarter of 2022 and first quarter of 2023, but then grow for the reminder of 2023.
Gross domestic product, the broad measure of goods and services, decreased in the U.S. at an annual rate of 1.6 percent in the first quarter of 2022 and six-tenths of a percent in the second quarter — two quarters of consecutive declines in GDP that by one definition constitutes a recession.
Peterson and Lundh discussed the economic outlook during a virtual media briefing.
It’s important to consider the fortunes of the U.S., Europe and China, Peterson said, because they collectively account for more than half of goods and services produced in the world.
Peterson said three of what she described as “mega trends” affect that outlook. They include the continued effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions, the war in Ukraine and rising interest rates intended to curb inflation.
Downside risks likely to lead to recession outnumber upside expectations a recession could be avoided, she said.
Other risks including labor and material shortages. Policies promoting renewable energy could cause higher prices in the short-run, but lower prices in the long term, she said.
Pandemic lockdowns persist in China, affecting manufacturing there. Energy prices have increased — especially natural gas
prices in Europe in the midst of the conflict in Ukraine.
In the U.S., the Federal Reserve has increased a benchmark interest rate to a range of 3 percent to 3.25 percent, the highest level since the early 1980s. The Conference Board has forecast the rate to rise to 3.75 percent to 4 percent, Peterson said.
Higher interest rates are expected to slow the economy and in turn lower inflation.
Lundh said inflation likely will slow at the end of 2022 and into 2023.
But it could be a while before inflation returns to the Federal Reserve target rate of 2 percent annual change in the Personal Consumption Expenditures price index. “That’s not going to happen in the foreseeable future.”
Peterson said some industry sectors are more sensitive to higher interest rates than others, including the housing, real estate and financial sectors.
Meanwhile, higher prices for food, gasoline and housing affect discretionary spending for restaurant meals and travel, she said.
Lundh said increased federal spending on infrastructure will kick in and contribute to economic growth, but also could drive up prices for labor and materials.
The U.S. labor market remains “incredibly strong,” he said. Reluctant to let employees go, employers are more likely in a downtown to institute hiring freezes.
A strong labor market and rising wages could help in limiting the length and severity of a recession, he said.
But there’s also a possibility a recession could be worse than anticipated, he added. “There are a whole host of risks.”
Peterson agreed. “There are tremendous downside risks and uncertainty.”
A measure of confidence among chief executive officers has declined for a fifth consecutive quarter.
The Conference Board and The Business Council reported their Measure of CEO Confidence dropped to 34 for the third quarter, down eight points from the second quarter. A reading below 50 reflects more negative than positive responses to the surveys upon which the measure is based.
“CEO confidence plunged further in Q3 amid continued high inflation, rapidly tightening monetary policy and ongoing geopolitical uncertainty,” said Dana Peterson, chief economist of the Conference Board.
Asked about the economic conditions they expect to face over the next 12 to 18 months, 81 percent of those who responded to the latest survey said they anticipated a brief and shallow recession.
At the same time, though, about three-quarters of respondents said demand has increased or held steady over the past three months. The majority said they intend to continue expanding their work forces and increasing wages.
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F Dana PetersonErik Lundh
A $100,000 donation will support participation among Grand Valley high school students in extracurricular activities.
Mesa County School District 51, the School District 51 Foundation and Western Colorado Community Foundation announced the donation from the Pat and Tillie Bishop Legacy Fund.
Central, Fruita Monument, Grand Junction, Palisade and R-5 high schools all will receive support from the fund for music, sports and theater programs as well academic, agricultural, business, robotic and speech groups.
“Pat and Tillie both understood the importance of
investing in and supporting children in our community. And because of their generous donation, extracurricular activities at all five D51 high schools will flourish in a way that will make a positive impact on numerous D51 students for years to come,” said Brian Hill, School District 51 superintendent.
Angela Christensen, executive director of the School District 51 Foundation, agreed. “This generous donation will have a lasting impact in our community. And to the students benefitting from these funds, it has the potential to be life-changing.”
Anne Wenzel, president and chief executive officer of the Western Colorado Community Foundation, said the
foundation established the fund as legacy of the late Pat and Tillie Bishop, who were public school teachers. Tillie Bishop also served as an administrator and later a trustee a what’s now Colorado Mesa University.
“What a fitting philanthropic legacy to fund club and extracurricular activities across our district to benefit our high school students,” Wenzel said. “This funding will support exploring different interests and developing skills to complement their academic learning.”
Lanc Selden, principal at Central High School, also praised the donation. “These funds are a game changer for so many groups and clubs within a school. Our hope is to increase the opportunities available for all students through increased extracurricular activities and less worry about fund-raising for events, supplies or competition travel.”
Applications will be accepted through Oct. 14 for the latest round of grants addressing housing-related needs in Mesa County.
The Bray Cares Foundation will award grants of $500 to $5,000 to qualified, tax-exempt entities.
Grants will target projects that provide emergency shelter and rent assistance, offer affordable housing for those dealing with special needs and help seniors and veterans stay in their homes.
Bray & Co. Real Estate in Grand Junction established the foundation four years ago to address housing-related needs in the community and help those who struggle to keep roofs over their heads.
Since its inception, the foundation has awarded a total of $75,000 in grants. The foundation plans to award another $35,000 this year.
“When we started the Bray Cares Foundation in 2018, our goal was to grow the amount of money we gave back to our community,” said Robert Bray, chief executive officer of Bray & Co. Real Estate. “I am very pleased to see the awards growing each year with the support of our Bray employees, associates and generous businesses that continue to support our efforts.”
Grant applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. Oct. 14. To apply or obtain more information, visit the website located at wc-cf.org/nonprofits/grantmaking/BrayCares.
The Western Colorado Community Foundation manages Bray Cares Foundation funds and awards grants. The foundation manages more than 350 charitable funds totaling $118 million in assets and awards more than $5 million in grants and scholarships annually.
Brian Hill Anne Wenzel Robert Bray
The deputy chief of the Grand Junction Police Department has been appointed interim chief.
Matt Smith will serve in the role until a national search is conducted to fill the position left vacant by the resignation of Doug Shoemaker.
Shoemaker left to take a job as police chief in Denton, Texas.
“I am honored to serve the people of Grand Junction in this new role as interim chief,” Smith said. “It is also my privilege to lead an exceptional group of women and men who have dedicated their careers to protecting the lives of those who live, work, learn and play in our community.”
Smith joined the Grand Junction Police Department in 1999 and served as deputy chief for the past three years. He previously served as a sergeant and commander. He also worked as a detective on the Grand Valley Joint Drug Task Force as well as a special weapons and tactics officer.
He started his career with the Cortez Police Department and also served in the Navy.
A public meeting has been scheduled to present information about proposed improvements to a section of the Interstate Highway 70 Business Loop in downtown Grand Junction.
The Colorado Department of Transportation will host the meeting from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sept. 29 in conference room 40A of the Mesa County Central Services building at 200 S. Spruce St.
The meeting will highlight preliminary design concepts for the I-70 Business Loop from south of Rood Avenue to East Main Street. Improvements are planned to address traffic congestion and provide for a safer and more comfortable experience for vehicles as well as cyclists and pedestrians. Designs will include improvements in landscaping, lighting, street connections and utilities.
Members of the project team will be available at the meeting to discuss details and next steps as well as answer questions.
Funding is available for construction from south of Rood Avenue to Third Street. Work is scheduled to begin in the spring of 2024. Construction along the remaining 1.5 miles from Third Street to East Main Street will be announced when funding has been secured.
The project is the next in a series of improvements along the I-70 Business Loop and follows improvements on I-70 B, First Street and Grand Avenue.
For more information about the project, call (970) 683-6361 or log on to www.codot.gov/projects/i70-b-south-ofrood/design.
The first part of a proposed update to the City of Grand Junction zoning and development code is available for public review and comments.
The code will be updated over the next six months in three modules. Each module will include draft documents that will be shared with the public. The draft of the first module is available.
The effort will update city regulations to reflect the goals and policies of a comprehensive plan adopted in 2021; identify constraints and opportunities for affordable housing; and promote consistency, efficiency and simplicity.
The city has planned online public discussions as well as other events to collect comments virtually and in person.
For more information, send an email to ZoningCodeUpdate@gjcity.org or log on to www.gjcity.org/1221/Zoning-andDevelopment-Code-Update.
Grand Junction City Manager Greg Caton appointed Smith. “Matt has a proven track record of strong leadership for our police department and exemplifies department values of professionalism, integrity, compassion and service,” Caton said. “In his new role, Matt will continue to build on strong relationships that exist between the department, our community, partnering organizations and local businesses.” Matt Smith
An experiential hospitality company has announced plans to expand by moving to an outdoor industry campus in Montrose.
Rowan Oak expects to move into 3,000 square feet of space in new flex buildings on the Colorado Outdoors campus.
The facility will serve as both the headquarters and main warehouse for Rowan Oak. The company also plans to increase staffing as part of the expansion.
Rowan Oak provides camping products and luxury travel packages for some of the largest music festivals and other events in North America, including Bonnaroo, Coachella and Electric Forest. The company’s event
division was established through a partnership with the For Site Group events management firm.
“After spending years on the road, what set Montrose apart from the rest were the things that can’t be manufactured,” said Eric Carroll, founder and managing partner of Rowan Oak. “The beauty of Montrose is second only to its community strength. We’re honored to call Colorado Outdoors home.”
David Dragoo, founder of the Colorado Outdoors project, said the purpose of the campus is to offer a compelling environment for businesses. “This is fundamentally a community connected by entrepreneurs,
and we are excited to bring Eric’s team to Montrose.”
The 164-acre Colorado Outdoors site is designed to attract outdoor industry companies to Montrose. The site will include a mix of retail, industrial and residential development.
Construction is under way on an outpatient medical center that will offer a range of health care services. Scheduled to open in 2023, the 50,000-square-foot Colorado Outdoors Medical Center will offer outpatient services in imaging, gynecology, oncology, orthopedics and urology as well as urgent care.
The Colorado Outdoors campus also includes more than 40 acres of open space that offers walking trails, river recreation activities on the Uncompahgre River and wildlife corridors.
Colorado ski resorts will mark some important milestones during the upcoming season, according to a trade association.
Improvements also are planned, including more snowmaking equipment and a new beginner area surface lift at Powderhorn Mountain Resort east of Grand Junction.
Colorado Ski Country USA announced the anniversaries and improvements for its 21 member resorts.
The Steamboat and Eldora resorts will celebrate 60 years in operation, while Sunlight Mountain Resort near Glenwood Springs will mark 55 years. Copper Mountain and Telluride will observe their 50th anniversaries.
Howelson Hill in Steamboat Springs will mark 107 years, making it the oldest continuously operating ski area in North America.
Colorado Ski Country USA will mark 60 years of promoting the ski industry.
Arapahoe Basin replaced its three-seat Lenawee Lift with a high-speed six-seat lift to offer quicker access to the slopes.
Loveland Ski Area replaced Lift 6 with a three-seat lift from Leitner-Poma to increase uphill capacity.
Steamboat has nearly completed the second phase of a $200 million transformation of the base area and mountain. The new Wild Blue Gondola and a new beginner lift will serve a new beginner area called Greenhorn Ranch. Steamboat also invested more than $450,000 in lift upgrades and general maintenance.
Telluride installed a high-speed quad chairlift for Chair 9 to cut what was a 15-minute lift time to 7 minutes.
Depending on weather, the upcoming ski and snowboarding season is expected to start in mid- to late October at the Arapahoe Basin and Loveland resorts. Openings are scheduled to follow in November and December at other resorts. Powderhorn is scheduled to open Nov. 25.
Colorado Ski Country USA sells what’s billed as the Gems Card offering discounts on lift tickets at Powderhorn and Sunlight as well as eight other resorts.
Eric CarrollDavid Dragoo
A new report offers information about the exit plans of Colorado business owners and how they expect to transition ownership of their operations.
The Colorado Employee Ownership Office of the Office of Economic Development and International Trade and Exit Planning Institute released the 2022 Colorado State of Owner Readiness Report.
“It’s incredibly valuable to see how our business owners are approaching exit planning and how the Employee Ownership Office can further help them in these times of transition,” said Jennifer Briggs, the chairwoman of the Colorado Employee Ownership Commission. “Succession planning is one of the primary benefits of employee ownership, and it’s a real driver of the office to ensure that all Coloradans are ready.”
Nationwide, an estimated six in 10 business owners plan to retire or sell their businesses within the next 10 years. But only 15 percent of businesses are passed down to the next generation, and only 20 percent of listed businesses sell. That leaves many owners without opportunities to benefit financially from their work and employees susceptible to job loss. In Colorado, small businesses employ 1.2 million people. More than 76 percent of small businesses in the state are owned by baby boomers nearing retirement age
Among the Colorado businesses owners who responded to the survey, 72 percent said they wanted to sell their businesses within the next 10 years. But 68 percent said they were unfamiliar with their exit options. These numbers confirm that opportunities remain to connect business owners with employee ownership education and resources.
Colorado offers a business income tax credit that covers up to $25,000 of conversion costs for worker-owned cooperatives and employee ownership trusts or $100,000 of conversion costs for employee stock ownership plans.
The Colorado Employee Ownership Office also will work with the statewide network of Small Business Development Centers to develop low-cost and no-cost resources to help business owners consider employee ownership options and guide them through the transition process.
For more information, including an employee ownership took kit and assistance with supporting and funding, send an email to coloradoeo@state.co.us or log on to https://oedit.colorado.gov/ colorado-employee-ownership-office.
Jennifer Briggs
A free course explores ways in which women entrepreneurs can expand their small businesses to serve international markets.
The U.S. Small Business Administration added the course, titled “Growing Globally,” to the Ascent online learning platform.
“Access to digital and online training platforms remains critical to supporting women entrepreneurs. As women are the fastest-growing entrepreneurial segment in the nation, Ascent helps the SBA reach more women where they are and when they need it. At the U.S. Small Business Administration, we are boldly dedicated to transforming our learning ecosystem to be timely and relevant to women-owned small businesses across the country,” said Mark Madrid, SBA associate administrator of the Office for Entrepreneurial Development.
Ascent offers courses designed to help women business owners achieve growth and success, including courses on access to capital, entrepreneurial leadership, financial strategies, government contracting, managing sales and partnerships.
“Growing Globally,” includes six modules:
n The value of growing globally.
n Opportunities for growing globally.
n Exploring international markets.
n Social entrepreneurship in international business.
n Exporting to world markets.
n Importing from world markets.
For more information, log on to the websites at https://ascent.sba.gov/or https://www.sba.gov.
Applications will be accepted through 4 p.m. Oct. 15 for the Daniels Scholarship Program.
The program provides up to $100,000 over four years to graduating high school seniors in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming to pursue college degrees.
Recepients receive $5,000 to $25,000 annually depending on financial need as well as laptop computers, career and leadership development and networking opportunities.
Established by cable television pioneer Bill Daniels, the fund has provided a total of more than $235 million in scholarships to more than 4,800 recipient since 2000.
Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 grade point average, scores of 490 on SAT math and reading and writing tests or 18 ACT scores in each category. Their parents or legal guardians must have an adjusted gross income of $85,000 or less on their 2021 tax returns.
For more information, log on to https://danielsfund.org/scholarships.
A free virtual summit is planned to help small businesses guard against cyberattacks.
The U.S. Small Business Administration has scheduled a national cyber summit for Oct. 26. Registration for the event is under way at www.bit.ly/SBACyberSummit.
The cybersecurity forum will introduce participants to tips, tools and resources to bolster cybersecurity while also exploring new trends and challenges.
“America’s small businesses are pivoting to digital technologies and online strategies at historic rates to reach new customers and improve operational efficiencies. But that pivot has also exposed them to significant new
threats from cyberattacks,” said SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman. “Our SBA team has mobilized to support them against these potentially disruptive threats with cybersecurity resources and trainings across our resource partner networks as well as through our recently launched Small Business Digital Alliance. Launching the SBA’s first annual Cybersecurity Summit will help us build on that work and ensure America’s 33 million small businesses and innovative startups can pivot safely online and grow resilient businesses.”
According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation Internet Crime Report, cyberattacks pose a growing threat to small businesses and the United States economy. The cost of internet-related crimes against the small business community reached $2.4 billion in 2021.
Small businesses have become attractive targets
because they have information criminals want, but lack the security infrastructure of larger businesses. According to a SBA survey, 88 percent of small business owners said they considered their firms vulnerable to cyberattacks, but don’t know how to address problems.
The summit will feature Guzman and Mark Madrid, SBA associate administrator of the Office of Entrepreneurial Develpment. The event also will feature experts from the public and private sectors, including speakers from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Small Business Development Centers and major technology platforms.
Participants will learn how to defend their businesses against cyberattacks through practical tips, problemsolving strategies and threat avoidance.
A study led by researchers at the University of Colorado at Boulder has identified a new method to recycle the plastics used in a variety of products.
Published in the journal Nature Chemistry, the study details how highperformance polymers, known for their ability to hold their shape and integrity in harsh conditions, can be chemically broken down and remade without sacrificing their desired physical properties.
“We are thinking outside the box about different ways of breaking chemical bonds,” said Wei Zhang, lead author of the study and chairman of chemistry department at CU Boulder. “Our chemical methods can help create new technologies and new materials as well as be utilized to help solve the existing plastic materials crisis.”
By reversing a chemical method, Zhang and his colleagues discovered they can both break and form new chemical bonds in high-performance polymers. The result: a closed-loop recycling process.
The method can be used to create a new class of polymer materials that are easy to build, break apart and rebuild over and over. Moreover, the method also applies to existing, even hard-to-recycle polymers.
Plastics have played a roles in almost every industry since the mid-20th century. While convenient, functional and cheap, plastic production requires large amounts of oil and burning fossil fuels. Disposable plastics create hundreds of millions of tons of waste every year, piling up in landfills, oceans and even in human bodies in the form of microplastics.
These new chemical methods are ready for commercialization and current industrial production.
Isabella Guzman
RecContinued from page 2
They worked with the Grand Junction Economic Partnership and Visit Grand Junction, the destination marketing organization of the City of Grand Junction.
The study involved surveys of local businesses involved in outdoor recreation and visitors who said they came to Mesa County between 2019 and 2021 primarily to engage in outdoor recreation.
The study estimated the direct economic effects of outdoor recreation businesses at nearly $199 million and a total of 3,690 full- and part-time jobs in 2021.
Adding indirect and induced effects to take into account the purchase of materials and services in the supply chain as well as employees spending their wages, the total estimates came to nearly $319 million and 4,501 jobs.
The direct effects of outdoor recreation tourism were estimated at nearly $342 million and a total of 3,930 full- and part-time jobs. Adding indirect and induced effects, the totals came to more than $556 million and 5,396 jobs.
The study also estimated the effects of outdoor recreation on gross domestic product, the broad measure of goods and services produced in Mesa County.
The direct effect of outdoor recreation businesses on GDP topped $131 million. The direct effect of outdoor recreation tourism on GDP exceeded $190 million.
The total of nearly $322 million
constituted 4.8 percent of GDP in Mesa County, Perry said.
By comparison, the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis pegged the effect of outdoor recreation in Colorado at 3.1 percent of the state’s GDP in 2019.
Perry said it’s not surprising the proportion is higher in Mesa County given the proximity and popularity of outdoor recreation venues and activities in the county.
The combined effects of outdoor recreation business and tourism on GDP totaled more than $484 million, or about 7.2 percent of Mesa County GDP. The nearly 10,000 jobs represented about 11 percent of all jobs in the county.
Perry said the results of the survey of outdoor recreation businesses also reflected the diversity of their operations.
Nearly 51 percent of respondents indicated their core business operations were most associated with trail and road activities. Another 18.2 percent said their businesses were related with water activities, 9.1 percent with wildlife and 5.5 percent with winter. Still another 16.4 percent cited other outdoor activities.
Asked to select which industry best describes their businesses, respondents cited retail trades and manufacturing as well as professional, scientific and technical services. Respondents also cited arts, entertainment and recreation as well as agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting.
Continued from page 2
Geer says Carnahan was instrumental in developing the chamber mission. “As she becomes president and CEO, this transition will reinforce our chamber as an advocate for a strong business climate in Western Colorado. We thank Diane for her many years of leading the chamber, and we are excited to welcome Candace to continue building the legacy of the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce.”
Carnahan oversees a chamber with 800 business members, making it the largest organization of its kind between Denver and Salt Lake City.
The Grand Junction chamber employs a staff of just five, but the board and members are active, she says. “It’s a very engaged group.”
Carnahan says she hasn’t yet had an opportunity to meet with the board to discuss priorities and goals, although a strategic planning session has been scheduled. At the same time, though, she says it’s important for her to talk to members about what they want and need. “It’s going to be really critical to listen.”
To that end, she says the chamber serves a variety of purposes as a source of information and assistance for businesses as well as an advocate in taking positions on everything from local ballot measures to state and national legislation and policies.
Businesses and business owners need different resources at different stages in the life cycles of their operations whether that’s helping an entrepreneur start a venture or assisting an existing company expand.
The ultimate goal, Carnahan says, is to help Grand Valley and Western Colorado businesses succeed.
The business climate reflects what she describes as a mix of wins and successes, but also barriers and burdens.
Businesses have started to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions, not to mention catch up with what’s been pent-up demand for goods and services.
Many businesses are expanding
operations in terms of facilities and staffing, which bodes well for Grand Junction, she says. She cites as one example a proposed expansion at the CoorsTek operation.
At the same time, businesses face challenges in shortages of labor as well as affordable housing and child care for employees.
Government regulations and policies also can pose difficulties for businesses, she says. That makes it important for the chamber to try to prevent and mitigate burdensome measures or at least help businesses navigate them.
Carnahan says working in various roles for the chamber for more than seven years has prepared to help and serve in her latest role. She says she’s gained knowledge of the organization and its various programs as well as the local business community. That positions her to build on what she calls an “amazing foundation.”
Carnahan also brings to her new duties other experiences, skills and training.
Prior to joining the chamber, she worked at the Hotel Denver in Glenwood Springs as director of sales and marketing and then assistant general manager. She also worked as catering manager at the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park. She owned Serendipity Weddings and Events and also worked as a host and trainer at Walt Disney World.
She graduated from the Western Association of Chamber Executives and was named to the association’s emerging leaders council for a second term.
Moreover, Carnahan was born and raised in Grand Junction, giving her what she says is a life-long familiarity with the area and a passion to help the community.
As president and CEO of the chamber, she expects to be a leader as well as an advocate and collaborator.
But she says she’s also looking forward to her role as a conductor in putting the best people in the best positions to bring out their best performances. She’s hopeful the result will be beautiful music.
A contest is under way to design license plates commemorating the 150th anniversary of Colorado statehood.
The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles will accept entries through Nov. 30 for what’s billed as the Historic Colorado Contest.
“Our state has a rich history, and we want to honor the legacy of those Coloradans who laid the foundation for our success. And with the Historic Colorado Contest, we will,” said Electra Bustle, senior director of the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles.
The contest is open to anyone who lives or studies in Colorado and will feature divisions for entrants under 13 years old and those over that age. A committee will select up to 10 finalists for each division. Entries will be judged based on how they capture Colorado and its history, artistic quality and originality and how the designs work on license plates. A public vote will decide the top three designs. Winners will receive commemorative license plates and $1,000 grants.
The contest is free. Participants can submit up to three entries by email to dor_HistoricColorado@state.co.us. A variety of digital file formats will be accepted, including those in JPG, TIFF or PDF.
For more information, including templates for submissions, visit the website located at https://dmv.colorado.gov/historiccolorado.
s New business filings in Colorado, 39,464 in the second quarter, up 0.5 percent from the second quarter of 2021.
s Consumer Confidence Index 108 for September, up 4.4.
t Leeds Business Confidence Index for Colorado, 41.1 for the third quarter, down 12.8.
s National Federation of Independent Business Small Business Optimism Index 91.8 for August, up 1.9.
s Foreclosure filings in Mesa County, 11 in August, up from 6 in August 2021.
s Foreclosure sales in Mesa County, 11 in August, up from 0 in August 2021.
s Conference Board Employment Trends Index, 119.06 for August, up 0.86.
t Conference Board Leading Economic Index 116.2 for August, down 0.3%.
n Institute for Supply Management Purchasing Managers Index for manufacturing, 52.8% for August, unchanged from July.
s Lodging tax collections in Grand Junction, $441,213 for August, up 2.5% from August 2021.
t Real estate transactions in Mesa County, 396 in August, down 27.2% from August 2021.
t Dollar volume of real estate transactions in Mesa County, $196.1 million in July, down 11.3% from August 2021.
s Sales and use tax collections in Grand Junction, $6.3 million for August, up 6.7% from August 2021.
s Sales and use tax collections in Mesa County, $4.5 million for August, up 7% from August 2021.
t Mesa County — 3.6% for August, down 0.3.
s Colorado — 3.4% for August, up 0.1.
s United States — 3.7% for August, up 0.2.
The monthly unemployment rate has retreated in Mesa County with an increase in payrolls and decrease in the ranks of the unemployed.
The Mesa County Workforce Center has scheduled its annual Jobfest Job Fair for Oct. 6.
The event is set for 3 to 6 p.m. at the center, located at 512 29 1/2 Road in Grand Junction. Veterans will receive priority access from 3 to 3:30.
Celina Kirnberger, employment services supervisor at the center, said she expects more than 50 employers to participate, each of them with immediate job openings to fill.
The trend is expected to continue even as summer hiring gives way to preparations for the upcoming holiday shopping season, said Celina Kirnberger, employment services supervisor at the Mesa County Workforce Center in Grand Junction. “It’s kind of what we expected.”
The seasonally unadjusted unemployment rate stood at 3.6 percent in August, according to the latest estimates from the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment.
That’s a decline of three-tenths of a point after the July rate was revised upward to 3.9 percent. At this time last year, the rate was higher at 5.4 percent.
Between July and August, Mesa County payrolls increased 1,061 to 75,944. The number of people counted among those unsuccessfully looking for work decreased 217 to 2,815. The labor force, which includes the employed and unemployed, grew 844 to 78,759.
Over the past year, payrolls increased 2,710 — or about 3.7 percent. The ranks of the unemployed decreased 1,395. The labor force grew 1,315.
Kirnberger said labor demand remains strong across most industry sectors and particularly in the health care sector. “Health care is always the big need.”
The number of job orders posted at the Mesa County Workforce Center has declined on a year-over-basis. But the number of job openings hasn’t changed as dramatically, she said.
For August, 850 job orders were posted. That’s down 18.1 percent from the 1,038 orders posted for the same month last year. Through the first eight months of 2022, 5,819 orders were posted. That’s down 23.4 percent from the 7,597 orders posted for the same span in 2021.
Year-to-date job openings held steady, she said, with 1,453 openings in 2022 and 1,468 openings in 2021.
The job fair is open at no charge to employers and those looking for jobs. Employers must register by Sept. 30.
To register or obtain more information about the job fair, call 248-7560, send an email to jobservice@mesacounty.us or visit the website at https://mcwfc.us.
Kirnberger said she expects the monthly jobless rate to continue to trend downward through the end of the year before what’s traditionally a seasonal spike after the holidays.
Seasonally adjusted unemployment rates also decreased in neighboring Western Colorado counties between July and August — a tenth of a point to 3.5 percent in Delta County and 2.8 percent in Garfield County and two-tenths of a point to 3.1 percent in Montrose County and 4.1 percent in Rio Blanco County.
The statewide seasonally adjusted jobless rate edged up a tenth of a point to 3.4 percent.
Nonfarm payrolls increased 12,400 between July and August. Over the past year, Colorado payrolls grew 108,300 with the biggest gains in the leisure and hospitality; professional and business services; and trade, transportation and utility sectors.
Over the past 28 months, payrolls increased 429,900, more than offsetting the 374,500 jobs lost in March and April 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions.
Over the past year, the average workweek for Colorado employees on private, nonfarm payrolls shortened 1.2 hours to 33.2 hours. Average hourly earnings increased $2.05 to $34.17.
A measure of consumer confidence has increased for a second straight month on more upbeat assessments of business and labor conditions even as concerns about recession and inflation persist.
The Conference Board reported its Consumer Confidence Index rose 4.4 points between August and September. With gains in each of the last two months, the index has climbed to 108. Components of the index tracking current conditions and expectations both increased for September.
present situation component of the index up 4.3 points to 149.6.
The proportion of those responding to the survey upon which the September index was based who described business conditions as “good” rose 1.8 points to 20.8 percent. The share of those who said conditions were “bad” fell 1.4 points to 21.2 percent.
The proportion of respondents who said jobs were “plentiful” rose 1.8 points to 49.4 percent. The share of those who said jobs were “hard to get” edged down two-tenths of a point to 11.4 percent.
More upbeat outlooks pushed the expectations component of the index up 4.5 points to 80.3.
Lynn Franco“Looking ahead, the improvement in confidence may bode well for consumer spending in the final months of 2022, but inflation and interest rate hikes remain strong headwinds to growth in the short term,” said Lynn Franco, senior director of economic indicators at the Conference Board.
The New York-based think tank bases the index on the results of household surveys. Economists monitor the index because consumer spending accounts for more than two-thirds of economic activity.
More optimistic assessments of current conditions pushed the
The share of those who expected business conditions to improve over the next six month rose two points to 19.3 percent. The proportion of those who anticipated worsening conditions fell seven-tenths of a point to 21 percent.
The share of those who expected more jobs to become available in coming months rose four-tenths of a point to 17.5 percent. The proportion of those who believed fewer jobs will be available fell 1.9 points to 17.7 percent.
While 18.4 percent of respondents expected their incomes to increase, 14.3 percent anticipated lower incomes.
Celina KirnbergerAn index forecasting economic conditions in the United States has declined for a sixth straight month, signaling slowing and the risk of recession.
The Conference Board reported its Leading Economic Index fell three-tenths of a percent to 116.2 in August. Separate measures of current and past conditions increased.
The Leading Economic Index dropped 2.7 percent between February and August, reversing a 1.7 percent gain over the six months before that. For August, five of 10 components of the index advanced.
Ataman Ozyildirim, the senior director of economics at the Conference Board, said only two components boosted the Leading Economic Index over the past six months — the yield spread and a decline in initial claims for unemployment benefits.
“Labor market strength is expected to continue moderating in the months ahead,” Ozyildirim said. “Indeed, the average workweek in manufacturing contracted in four of the last six months — a notable sign as firms reduce hours before reducing their work forces.”
Gross domestic product, the broad measure of goods and services, decreased in the United States at an annual rate of 1.6 percent in the first quarter and ninetenths of a percent in the second quarter — two quarters of consecutive declines in GDP that by one definition constitutes a recession.
The Conference Board, a think tank based in New York, projected a recession in coming quarters, Ozyildirim said. “Economic activity will continue slowing more broadly throughout the U.S. economy and likely to contract. A major driver of this slowdown has been the Federal Reserve’s rapid tightening of monetary policy to counter inflationary pressures.”
The Coincident Economic Index, a measure of current conditions, edged up a tenth of a percent to 108.7 in August. The index advanced six-tenths of a percent between February and August, slower than the 1.5 percent gain over the previous six-month span.
For August, three of four components of the index advanced
The Lagging Economic Index, a measure of past conditions, rose seventenths of a percent to 115.4 in August. The index has increased 4.4 percent over the past six months, a faster pace than the 2.5 percent gain in the six-month period before that.
For August, three of seven components of the index advanced.
Ataman Ozyildirim
n The Business Incubator Center has scheduled presentations on accounting and startups.
Bookkeeping boot camps camps are set for 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 29 and Dec. 13 at the center, located at 2591 Legacy Way in Grand Junction.
Participants will learn how to set up and track business accounting records and gain more control over their businesses through the preparation of cash flow projections and income statements. Tuition is $75, which includes lunch.
By now, most people have heard about quiet quitting. It’s defined by Dictionary.com as “an informal term for the practice of reducing the amount of effort one devotes to one’s job.”
The next business startup workshop is set for 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 6 at the FWorks coworking space at 325 E. Aspen Ave. in Fruita. The workshop will cover business planning, financing options, legal structures and licensing requirements. Admission is $55.
For more information about upcoming events, programs and services at the Business Incubator Center, call 243-5242 or log on to https://gjincubator.org.
n The Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce has scheduled a series of classes to help members develop their work forces and attain new employees through internships.
One-hour classes will be offered along with lunch at noon once a month over five months at various locations:
Oct. 5, BBSI, 120 W. Park Drive, Suite 108 in Grand Junction.
Nov. 2, Dragon Heating & AC, 156 S. Park Square in Fruita.
Dec. 7, Mesa County Workforce Center, 512 29 1/2 Road in Grand Junction.
Jan. 4, Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction.
Feb. 1, Growl Agency, 750 Main St. in Grand Junction.
The program is scheduled to conclude with a session set for 5:30 p.m. March 1 on the CMU campus that will include graduation as well as speed interviewing with CMU Career Services and students ready to accept internship opportunities.
To register or obtain more information, contact the chamber at 858-3894 or visit the website at htttps://fruitachamber.org.
Madison Donnafield
Zaid Kahn brought the trend to the forefront in a 17-second TikTok video in which he says he recently learned about the term quiet quitting. Kahn says, “You’re not outright quitting your job, you’re quitting the idea of going above and beyond.” Khan also mentions “hustle culture” and the idea of working day and night to achieve professional goals, sometimes at the expense of mental and physical health.
While the term has gained notoriety, quiet quitting isn’t a new concept or practice. It’s just a new name for a behavior that’s occurred for a long time.
Opinions differ about the causes of quiet quitting. Some say it’s about a lack of passion for the job. Others view it as being lazy. And there are some who believe it’s up to managers to improve employee engagement.
We’re young professionals working in the Grand Valley, where “hustle culture” isn’t as pronounced as some other areas. Here’s our point of view about quiet quitting.
For starters, the word “quitting” doesn’t feel quite right. Really, it’s about setting boundaries in the workplace.
The time of killing yourself for your job is over and has been for quite a while. Quiet quitting gives people permission to stop doing tasks outside their job descriptions or working more than their contracted hours. Quiet quitters aren’t sitting around twiddling their thumbs all day while they get a paycheck. Rather, they’re putting in the expected amount of work their jobs require and then calling it a day at 5 p.m.
Quiet quitters are no longer available around the clock. They don’t check their work emails off the clock or work while they’re on vacation. They’re striking a balance between work and life at a time when it’s always talked about, but rarely seen.
In the Grand Valley and on the Western Slope, there’s
Setting boundaries between work and life enables employees to pursue interests outside of work without constantly worrying about completing tasks past their regularly scheduled hours. In the process, employees come to work refreshed. They’re more productive and brainstorm out-of-the-box ideas.
no denying there’s a slower pace of work compared to large cities. There still could be quiet quitters next to you at the office or on your team calls, though.
While we don’t live in a “hustle culture,” there’s still room to set boundaries between work and life. Many companies and organizations promote work-life balance so their employees not only reconnect with family and friends, but also reset themselves after hard work weeks.
Setting boundaries between work and life enables employees to pursue interests outside of work without constantly worrying about completing tasks past their regularly scheduled hours. In the process, employees come to work refreshed. They’re more productive and brainstorm out-of-the-box ideas. Perhaps quiet quitting can foster a culture with less burnout and lower turnover rates.
Although quiet quitting might not be right for every business or offer a permanent solution in the workplace, it provides a way for employees to set boundaries for employers and reconnect with their personal lives.
Andrea Potter works as a recruiter for Community Hospital in Grand Junction. Madison Donnafield works as a human resource generalist with a primary focus on recruiting at Dalby, Wendland & Co., an accounting and business consulting firm based in Grand Junction. Potter serves as programs director for the Western Colorado Human Resource Association. Donnafield is the young professionals liaison for the group. For more information, visit www.wchra.org.
Andrea PotterHow often are you so excited about your business you can’t wait to start the day? How often does just the opposite occur and you dread even the thought of going to work? Are you inspired and energized by your business or burdened by what feels more like drudgery? Be honest here.
When you love what you do, there’s no sense of burden or drudgery. There’s only enthusiasm, passion and joy. In fact, you often feel better when you’re working than when you’re not. You seek ways to improve yourself and your business and ideas flow. It’s fun being you.
More often than not, people who start a business do so based on what they know — what they’re good at and comfortable doing — not necessarily what they’re passionate about.
Why did you start your business? If you’re like most entrepreneurs, you wanted greater control over your destiny. Perhaps you wanted to build something meaningful that could be sold for a profit or passed down to your children. It’s also probable you wanted more freedom, financial abundance and the ability to travel. Maybe you wanted to make a difference in some way or actually enjoy what you do for a living.
People sometimes start a business to sell a product or service they believe will make them rich, but don’t really believe in or use themselves. This will eventually create a huge disconnect within a person for which even riches can’t compensate.
If you sell useless, low quality or defective goods and services — and know it — your lack of integrity will catch up to you, potentially destroying your business and any satisfaction you once felt.
Believing in the products and services you provide is a necessary ingredient in the enjoyment of owning your own business. Integrity not only feels good, but also attracts and retains talented team members and increases the number of loyal customers you serve. Integrity increases the pleasure and success you experience in running your business.
Another key ingredient in the amount of satisfaction you derive from your business is your style of and ability to lead. If you don’t like to be a leader, don’t understand what one is or how to assume this responsibility, the amount of fun you have will suffer. Ineffective leadership constitutes one of the major pitfalls to happiness and success in business.
Effective leaders provide a consistently empowering example, use the best tools for hiring talent and invest in the development of their team members. They aren’t perfect or infallible. They’re human, authentic and strive to be their best and support others to do the same. This behavior results in greater job satisfaction, increased productivity, loyalty and retention, exceptional customer service and improved
sales. Becoming a good leader takes time and effort. But as you do, your business runs smoother and grows more successful. The amount of fun you experience increases exponentially.
In addition, the quality of your team is essential to your happiness and success. All business owners understand the unending stress and challenges poor-quality team members bring to the workplace culture. This is a situation well worth avoiding at all cost.
The more qualified, better trained, happy and committed your team members are, the better for everyone involved. People who like and enjoy their work perform at higher levels than those who don’t. Hiring talented individuals is truly a science, and a qualified professional can provide proven strategies to improve your success rate.
Through my work as a professional development coach and consultant, I’ve met many business owners who are financially successful, yet not thriving. Financial success is only one aspect of your business.
When you’re passionate about your business; offer exceptional products and services; and an effective leader who’s built a capable, happy and loyal team, financial rewards and enjoyment will follow.
Marcus Straub owns Life is Great Coaching in Grand Junction. His personalized coaching and consulting services help individuals, business owners, executives and companies build teams, organizations and lives filled with happiness and success. Straub is winner of the International Coach of the Year Award and author of “Is It Fun Being You?” He’s available for free consultations regarding coaching, speaking and trainings. Reach Straub at 208-3150, marcus@ligcoaching.com or through the website located at www.ligcoaching.com.
Marcus Straub
Believing in the products and services you provide is a necessary ingredient in the enjoyment of owning your own business. Integrity not only feels good, but also attracts and retains talented team members and increases the number of loyal customers you serve.
The business world is filled with examples of failed projects, incomplete buildings, overambitious proposals and schedule delays.
Why do these situations occur, and how can they be minimized? Problems arise when a bidder, producer or service provider promises more than they can deliver in the allotted time. The solution is simple. Under promise and then over deliver.
What are some of the ways to under promise and over deliver?
n Know your limitations. If you try to break into a new business area or start to work with a new client, acknowledge at least to yourself your weaknesses and plan budgets and schedules accordingly. If you segue from providing a product or service to small businesses to becoming a government supplier, be careful what sort of schedule to which you commit. Things you could accomplish or deliver quickly in the hands-on world of small business clients can take much longer under a government contract. Ask others who’ve worked with government clients what sort of obstacles and delays they encountered and factor that into to your plan or proposal. If you finish as scheduled or on budget, great. But by considering your new client, you could promise a certain schedule or budget and then perform better. Clients like those results.
n Remain realistic. If, for example, you’re a custom home builder and could complete a house in less than six months, consider the shortage of skilled trades. You might have a regular crew, but circumstances could change. Someone could quit or be hired away. They could get sick or injured. They might not show up as scheduled. If you develop a schedule that allows for these situations and you have few or no problems, you could complete the house sooner and possibly under budget. But if things don’t run like clockwork, you’ve allowed for that in your schedule and budget, so the client is satisfied.
n Understand and accept that many times you might not be the least expensive provider, so focus instead on being the best.
If your hourly rate is higher than that of a competitor, provide examples of how you work quickly, gaining the client valuable time at the end to make changes or get merchandise out sooner.
If someone charges $60 an hour for something and you charge $100 an hour, demonstrate you’re able to deliver in less time than the competitor with the lower rate. Time —for changes, reaction, planning or anything else — is the one product that can’t be manufactured. But time can be saved and put to better use.
Most of the time, there’s no extra compensation for completing a project or delivering a product ahead of schedule — at least not in monetary terms. But when you write a proposal and list your past performance, the ability to boast you finished a project or delivered a product ahead of schedule, under budget and with no safety issues can be a critical differentiator. Remind your references so they can provide those critical details to the reference checkers.
Gaining a reputation for delivering more than you promised or providing the product or service more quickly or at a lower cost is something no amount of experience can buy. You simply have to do it and let your success speak for itself.
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. F
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Janet ArrowoodTime — for changes, reaction, planning or anything else — is the one product that can’t be manufactured. But time can be saved and put to better use.
An invisible curve exists within all teams. Once discussed, most organizations realize it’s another of those “well duh” types of easily discernible management theories anyone can grasp.
Similar to a traditional, bellshaped distribution curve, you have a majority of people who show up, put in a good day’s work and then go home at the end of the day. I place those people in the middle of the organizational curve. On the right side of that group are those who excel and go above and beyond what’s expected. On the left side are those who begrudgingly show up, do as little as possible, demand more money and complain.
We — as in the royal we of managers, leaders, supervisors ... pick your descriptor — spend the vast majority of our time, talents, efforts and energy on the group on the left side of the curve. We exhaust ourselves and question our abilities to turn them around only to ultimately and painfully reach the inevitable end and bounce ’em.
The debate as to what really exists within an organizational curve is moot in it all depends upon the culture within that organization. For the sake of getting to the point of this column, though, let’s just say the typical curve is 20 percent, 60 percent and 20 percent.
While there are a number of avenues available to go to improve the curve —engagement, empowerment and the like — I’d like to address the 600-pound gorilla that recently entered the room. And that’s the trend of so-called “quiet quitting.”
If you haven’t heard of quiet quitting, you might
want to become familiar with the term and its potential consequences. It’s a way too painful reality that occurs when we spend way too much time on those people on the left side of the curve and those on the right side as well as a good portion of those in the middle start to feel neglected.
Consider first the return on every $1 invested in wages and benefits from each of these groups:
n Engaged employees, or 32 percent of a typical work force, work with passion and feel a profound connection to their companies. They drive innovation and move the organization forward. For every $1 you invest in wages and benefits for engaged employees, you’ll receive a return of $2.02.
n Not engaged employees, or 50.8 percent of your work force, have checked out. They’re sleepwalking through their work day. They put in the time, but not energy or passion into their work. For every $1 you invest in your not engaged employees, you’ll only recoup about 26 cents.
n Actively disengaged employees, or 17.2 percent of your work force, aren’t just unhappy at work, they’re busy
acting out their unhappiness. Every day, these workers undermine what their engaged co-workers accomplish. For actively disengaged employees, you’re lucky to get a 3 cent return.
The latest pandemic in the workplace is the quiet quitting of members of the top group who work a little less hard each day. You can still count on them giving you a little more than your $1 investment. That’s just simply in their makeup. But the real losses manifest themselves between the $1 return and $2.02 return you once received.
This can be thwarted, though, by refocusing your time, talents and energies not on the group to the left, but the one on the right.
Those interesting in learning more can send an email to me. I’ll email them back a spreadsheet detailing the effects on a business related to just four of the more chronic employee relations challenges most organization face — absenteeism, disgruntled employees, engagement and turnover. Under each of those four headings appear forward-thinking strategies for empowerment and engagement that will benefit them and their organizations.
Hopefully, you’ll be able to stem the latest pandemic sweeping across the globe — quiet quitting.
Tim Haggerty and his wife, Bernadette, operate a consulting firm based in Grand Junction that helps clients transition from command and control to servant leadership and change the view of wages and benefits from expenses to investments. Haggerty brings to the venture more than 40 years of experience in operations management and a record of decreasing costs while increasing productivity and revenue. Reach him at info@timothyhaggerty.com or (610) 737-0496. More information is available at www.timothyhaggerty.com.
Tim HaggertyWhile there are a number of avenues available to go to improve the curve —engagement, empowerment and the like — I’d like to address the 600-pound gorilla that recently entered the room. And that’s the trend of so-called “quiet quitting.”
You’ve decided to get into shape. It won’t be easy, and there’ll be days you just don’t feel like working out. Want to know the secret to a successful plan? Work out with a friend.
Statistics show having someone who shares in your health and fitness goals will make your journey more successful.
It’s important to choose the right person. You might select a friend or co-worker. A spouse or family member could offer a good fit, too. When you’re working toward similar goals in your household, it’s easier to make time to exercise as well as create a healthier environment at mealtimes.
Here are five reasons you’ll enjoy more success getting in shape when you do it with a friend:
n Accountability: A friend will help you get going and keep exercising on a consistent basis. No more lame excuses why you can’t work out. A good friend knows all your excuses, and they won’t work. This is why people who participate in group exercise have more consistent workout routines.
n Motivation: A friend can offer encouragement to
A friend will help you get going and keep exercising on a consistent basis. No more lame excuses why you can’t work out. A good friend knows all your excuses, and they won’t work. This is why people who participate in group exercise have more consistent workout routines.
keep you going. If losing weight is a key goal, you could encounter times where you become frustrated and want to quit. An exercise buddy will help put things in perspective. There might be times when you just aren’t feeling up to working out, and they can help pump up your enthusiasm and remind you why you’re doing this.
n You push each other: A training partner can push your limits. They create a challenge and help you work harder than if you worked out alone. How about a burpee challenge? Who can do the most? There’s nothing better than a little friendly competition when it comes to exercise. Remember, though, you might be at different levels than
your partner, and keeping track of how you’re doing and improving is the key.
n Sharing information: As they say, two heads are better than one. Think of how many more things you could learn. Maybe it’s a new exercise class, fitness tips or healthy recipes. Share music that inspires you. Your friend also can serve as a sounding board. Talk about what’s working and how you might benefit.
n Fun: Working out with a friend offers a lot more fun than working out alone. It can be a time to work hard, catch up on each other’s lives and even get silly and laugh together. Exercise might not always be fun. But when you combine the social aspect, you open up a whole new world.
Pick whoever you want for your exercise buddy just as long as they’ll make you a better person. Choose a person you want to be around and who has your best interests at heart. Then prepare to share in the challenges and successes.
Paula and Dale Reece own Crossroads Fitness Centers in Grand Junction with a downtown location at 225 N. Fifth St. and north location at 2768 Compass Drive. For more information, call 242-8746 or visit the website located at www.crossroadsfitness.com.
There’s high inflation, rising borrowing costs and economic uncertainty. So what’s next for real estate?
Let’s start with the latest Federal Open Market Committee statement from the Federal Reserve: “Recent indicators point to modest growth in spending and production. Job gains have been robust in recent months, and the unemployment rate has remained low. Inflation remains elevated, reflecting supply and demand imbalances related to the pandemic, higher food and energy prices and broader price pressures.
“Russia’s war against Ukraine is causing tremendous human and economic hardship. The war and related events are creating additional upward pressure on inflation and are weighing on global economic activity. The committee is highly attentive to inflation risks.
“The committee seeks to achieve maximum employment and inflation at the rate of 2 percent over the longer run. In support of these goals, the committee decided to raise the target range for the Federal Funds rate to 3 to 3.25 percent and anticipates that ongoing increases
There’ll be price adjustments in both commercial and residential real estate. Inventories will increase, giving everyone more choices at lower prices.
in the target range will be appropriate. In addition, the committee will continue reducing its holdings of Treasury securities and agency debt and agency mortgage-backed securities, as described in the Plans for Reducing the Size of the Federal Reserve’s Balance Sheet that were issued in May. The committee is strongly committed to returning inflation to its 2 percent objective.”
Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell warned the U.S. housing market is likely to suffer a reversal in the wake of interest rate hikes. “We’ve had a time of a red hot housing market all over the country. The deceleration in housing prices that we’re seeing should help bring prices more in line with rents and other housing market fundamentals. And that’s a good thing,” Powell said.
When the Fed was sitting on the sidelines, inflation was running rampant with no end in sight. Now, if the Biden
administration can curb its deficit spending for the next couple of years, we can expect that by 2024 inflation can be reduced to the Fed’s 2 percent target rate. Then they can start reducing the Federal Funds rate, which in turn will help to calm financial markets and reduce mortgage rates.
In the meantime, there’ll be price adjustments in both commercial and residential real estate. Inventories will increase during the next couple of years, giving everyone more choices at lower prices.
If you need to buy a house now or want to invest in a commercial property, ask about owner carry options at below market rates and then refinance in a few years when the rates come back down. There are plenty of other creative financing options out there, so buyers shouldn’t let this recent bump in mortgage rates stop them from purchasing real estate.
Tim Whitney is managing broker of Coldwell Banker Commercial Prime Properties, a commercial brokerage and property management company based in Grand Junction. He’s been involved in the sale, leasing and management of commercial real estate in Colorado for more than 35 years. For more information, call 243-7375 or visit www.CBC-Prime.com.
Paula Reece Tim Whitney
Nominations will be accepted through Dec. 8 for annual awards presented by the U.S. Small Business Administration.
The SBA presents national and state awards to the small business person and small business exporter of the year. A state wall of fame award also will be presented.
The awards will be presented as part of the National Small Business Week observance scheduled for April 20 to May 6, 2023.
“We welcome nominations from every corner of the state for these coveted SBA recognitions,” said Frances Padilla, director of the SBA Colorado District. “With more than 690,000 small businesses that call Colorado home, we’re looking forward to dynamic, successful companies spanning numerous industries to be represented.”
Nominations must be submitted electronically to the SBA Colorado District Office by 1 p.m. Dec. 8.
For nomination guidelines and additional information, send an email to the district office at ColoradoDO@sba.gov or visit the website at www.sba.gov/nsbw.
Emergency responders, law enforcement agencies, tow companies and others are expected to join in an annual event promoting awareness of roadside safety.
The Slow Down Move Over Colorado Saturday Night Awareness Cruise is scheduled for 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 15.
Vehicles will be staged at Grand Mesa Middle School starting at 5:30 and proceed down 31 1/2 Road, Patterson Road, 24 1/2 Road, First Street and the Interstate Highway 70 Business Loop.
Vehicles will gather at the Teller Arms Shopping Center. A truck lighting display is planned in remembrance of those killed or injured on the road.
Colorado law requires drivers to move one lane away from emergency, maintenance or tow vehicles. If they’re unable to move over, drivers must reduce their speed to 20 miles per hour below the posted speed limit.
For information, call Kim Hobscheidt at (970) 589-1990 or Jennifer Laws at (702) 569-4280.
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.
The Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce recognized 10 businesses for expansions resulting in a total capital investment of $8.3 million and 123 additional jobs.
Wal-Mart was honored for a $4.7 million remodeling project and the addition of 15 jobs. ColCal Colorado was honored for investing $2 million in opening a Taco Bell restaurant and adding 45 jobs. Builders FirstSource was honored for a $1.8 million project and 25 jobs. The Kain & Burke law firm was honored for investing more than $1 million in a new location and adding one job. The Castle Creek Manor bed and breakfast was honored for a $245,000 expansion.
Grand Junction REgeneration and Lowell Village Metropolitan District were honored for a total investment of $550,000 in a townhome development. JFS Inc., a financial and accounting firm, was honored for a $45,000 investment and six additional jobs.
Bray & Co. Real Estate was recognized for 26 additional jobs, while RoseCap Financial Advisors was honored for five new jobs.
Chevron contributed $24,000 to a Grand Junction-based program offering participants job and life skills training while working on land improvement projects.
Chevron donated the money to support the Western Colorado Conservation Corps, a program of Mesa County Partners.
WCCC crews build and maintain trails and fences, remove invasive plant species and restore habitats. For 2022, a total of more than 90 youth and young adults have been hired to work on public lands and remove invasive species along rivers.
Participants earn AmeriCorps education awards to pay for college in addition to various certifications that can help them with employment. More than half of the youth and young adults hired for the program are within poverty guidelines.
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The Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce will accept applications through Sept. 30 for the next class at the Young Entrepreneur Academy in Grand Junction.
The 30-week program guides middle and high school students through the process of coming up with ideas for new products and services, developing business plans, pitching their ventures to investors for startup funding and launching companies and social movements.
In the process, students build relationships with mentors and learn about networking, organization and professionalism.
“Encouraging entrepreneurship with our youth is a key element of work force development,” said Candace Carnahan,
vice president of the chamber. “The skills established during the Young Entrepreneur Academy will positively impact these students for the rest of their lives while also creating a number of new businesses that contribute to the strength of our local business community.”
The academy is open to students in sixth through 12th grades. Classes are scheduled for 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays from October through April at Western Colorado Community College.
For additional information about the academy, contact Kirstin Maska at (970) 263-2916 or kirstin@gjchamber.org or log on to https://gjchamber.org/young-entrepreneurs-academy-yea.
Bray & Co. Real Estate based in Grand Junction was among the winners of an annual awards program recognizing Colorado companies.
Bray & Co. was a Top Company in the real estate sector in the program conducted by ColoradoBiz magazine.
Bray & Co. was one of two Western Slope firms among the winners of 14 categories. Growing Spaces, a garden building supplier based in Pagosa Springs, won in the manufacturing category.
“We are deeply honored to receive this recognition,” said Michelle Urlacher, president of Bray & Co. “Since our very beginning as a small, two-person company on the front porch of Sherman and Roxie Bray’s house through our growth today, we have adhered closely to our values. We are driven to meet the needs of our clients by providing an exceptional experience and very honored to be recognized for our amazing people here at Bray & Co.”
ColoradoBiz magazine received hundreds of entries in the 35th Top Companies program. To be eligible, companies must be based in Colorado or show significant business presence in the state. The editorial board of the magazine and two representatives from the business community served as the judging panel. Entrants were judged on three criteria: outstanding achievement, financial performance and community involvement.
Bray & Co. Real Estate operates residential and commercial offices as well as a property management office. For information, call 242-3647 or visit www.brayandco.com.
Michelle Urlacher Frances Padilla
Dan Milholland has been promoted to senior project manager at West Star Aviation in Grand Junction. Sean McCracken was promoted to avionics team lead.
Milholland has worked for West Star for more than 24 years, including positions as a technician and senior team lead in aircraft services. He obtained his airframe and powerplant license from Colorado Northwestern Community College and previously worked on B-1 bombers and the space shuttle.
“Dan’s expertise is a valuable asset to West Star, and we are excited that he will continue his career while offering the best services and project coordination to our valued customers,” said Scott Sweeney, general manager of West Star at Grand Junction.
McCracken has worked at West Star since 2012, first in the paint department and then in avionics. He serves in the Air National Guard as a weapons loader on F-16 aircraft.
“Sean has excelled in all his roles, and we are confident he will continue to bring his extensive expertise to our valued customers,” Sweeney said.
West Star Aviation offers a range of services that include the maintenance and repair of airframes, engines and avionics as well as painting and interior refurbishments. In addition to its facilities at the Grand Junction Regional Airport, West Star Aviation operates facilities in Aspen and Denver as well as in Arizona, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, Tennessee and Texas. For more information, visit www.weststaraviation.com.
John Sabal was honored as the top-performing agent for August at Heiden Homes Realty in Grand Junction.
Sabal posted the highest dollar volume in sales for the month. He tied with Anthony Heiden, Mary Kruse, Mike Moran and Kathy Tomkins for most closings.
Sabal has worked in real estate since 2012 and also works as operations manager for PureLine Treatment Systems. He previously worked as a golf course manager. In addition to his other managerial and entrepreneurial endeavors, he owned and operated the Palisade Café and Wine Bar for several years.
Heiden Homes Realty operates offices at 735 Rood Ave. For more information, including properties for sale and rent, call 245-7777 or visit www.heidenhomes.com.
The Business Times welcomes submissions for free publication in Business People and the Almanac calendar of events. Email submissions to phil@thebusinesstimes.com or submit a news release online at www.thebusinesstimes.com.
Kaitlin VanRoosendaal and Kagen Jones have joined Bray & Co. Real Estate as agents.
Before obtaining her real estate license, VanRoosendaal worked as marketing manager for the firm. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing from Colorado Mesa University as well as a master’s degree in human resources from Colorado State University.
“I am thrilled to apply my marketing expertise, passion for real estate and strong communication skills to use to assisting my clients with their real estate needs,” she said.
Jones recently moved back to Grand Junction from Rifle, where he worked in real estate.
“I’m a strong communicator and hard worker,,” he said. “I always look to build personal relationships with my clients because those relationships are more important to me than their sale or purchase of real estate.”
Bray & Co operates residential and commercial offices as well as a property management office. For information, call 242-3647 or visit www.brayandco.com.
Selena Sanchez has joined the Grand Junction Economic Partnership as director of marketing and communications.
Sanchez brings to her new role experience in nonprofit management, event planning and fund raising. Prior to joining GJEP, Sanchez worked as marketing and membership manager of the Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce and a marketing strategist with the Growl Agency in Grand Junction. She’s an alumna of Colorado Mesa University and native of Grand Junction
GJEP promotes the economic vitality and quality of life in Mesa County by supporting capital investment and job creation through a range of free services. For more information, call 245-4332 or visit www.gjep.org.
Sept. 29
n Bookkeeping boot camp, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Business Incubator Center, 2591 Legacy Way, Grand Junction. Admission $75, which includes lunch. https://gjincubator.org or 243-5242
n Young Professionals Network of Mesa County after hours event, 5 to 7:30 p.m., Warehouse 2565, 2565 American Way, Grand Junction. www.ypnmc.org Oct. 4
n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Veterans in Business monthly muster and demonstration on services for veterans groups, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Harmony Acres, 1451 O Road, Fruita. 858-3893 or https://fruitachamber.org Oct. 5
n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce free class for chamber members on internships and workforce development, noon to 1 p.m., BBSI, 120 W. Park Drive, Suite 108, Grand Junction. 858-3893 or https://fruitachamber.org Oct. 6
n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business free networking lunch, noon to 1 p.m., Business Incubator Center. Participants should bring a salad, soup or side dish to share with at least six servings. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3893
n Business startup workshop, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., FWorks coworking space, 325 E. Aspen Ave., Fruita. Admission $55. https://gjincubator.org or 243-5242
Oct. 10
n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business Bunco night, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Suds Brothers Brewery, 127 E. Aspen Ave., Fruita. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3893 Oct. 11
n Mavs Business Power Hour networking event connecting businesses and Colorado Mesa University students with a focus on engineering, 4 to 6 p.m., Room 177, Confluence Hall, 735 Elm Ave., Grand Junction. 248-1404 Oct. 12
n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce Networking at Noon, noon to 1 p.m., Devil’s Kitchen, 840 Kennedy Ave. Admission $20 for chamber members, $25 for others. 242-3214 or https://gjchamber.org
n Palisade Chamber of Commerce community over coffee event, 9:30 to 11 a.m. Oct. 13, Sauvage Spectrum Winery, 676 38 1/4 Road. Admission $10. www.palisadecoc.com or 464-7458
n Fruita and Palisade chambers of commerce joint business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Oct. 19, Ordinary Fellow, 202 Peach St., Palisade. Admission for members $5 in advance and $6 at the door. Admission for others $8 in advance and $10 at the door. www.palisadecoc.com or 464-7458
Dan Milholland John Sabal Sean McCracken Selena Sanchez K. VanRoosendaal Kagen JonesContinued from page 34
n Fruita and Western Colorado Latino chambers of commerce joint Business Toolbox presentatation on marketing, noon to 1 p.m. Oct. 25, Maverick Innovation Center, 730 Mesa Ave., Grand Junction 858-3894 or https://fruitachamber.org
n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce free presentation on membership benefits, 4 to 5 p.m. Oct. 25, chamber offices, 360 Grand Ave., or by Zoom. 243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org
n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Oct. 25, Grand Junction Convention Center, 159 Main St. Admission $10 in advance, $12 at the door. https://gjchamber.org or 242-3214
n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce health summit, 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 26, Grand Junction Convention Center. Admission $65 for chamber members and $75 for others. 242-3214 or https://gjchamber.org
n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Thursday Friends networking luncheon, noon to 1 p.m. Oct. 27, Dragon Treasure, 576 Kokopelli Drive, Suite A, Fruita. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3893
n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Veterans in Business monthly muster and presentation on services for veterans, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Nov. 1, Veterans Art Museum, 307 S. 12th St., Grand Junction. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3893
n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce free class for members on internships and workforce development, noon to 1 p.m. Nov. 2, Dragon Heating & AC, 156 S. Park Square,
Fruita. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3893.
n Business startup workshop, 2 to 4 p.m. Nov. 3, Business Incubator Center. Admission $55. 243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org
n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Nov. 10, Cattlemen’s Bar + Grill, 1369 12 1/2 Road, Loma. Admission $5 for chamber members, $10 for others. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3893
n Business startup workshop, 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 1, Business Incubator Center. Admission $55. 243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org
n Bookkeeping boot camp, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 13, Business Incubator Center. Admission $75, which includes lunch. https://gjincubator.org or 243-5242 F
