The Business Times Volume 29 Issue 19

In this issue

n High-flying mark

West Star Aviation celebrates 75 years in operation in 2022, tracing its origin in part to a firm founded in Grand Junction.

Puzzling situation

4 5

n Paying it forward

A staffing service plans a hiring drive to put more Western Colorado residents to work for the holiday season.

Mesa County real estate activity continues to slow as higher interest rates and prices affect affordability.

Business People

n Labor update

U.S. payrolls increased and the jobless rate fell, but the latest job gains were the smallest in 18 months.

n Interactive effort

Managing medical issues in the workplace through the interactive process often becomes complicated.

n Embrace change

Change is a reality in business, but it’s easier to make when it’s seen as a good thing instead of a bad thing.

Puzzling situation

business leaders more pessimistic,

C

olorado business leaders are more pessimistic heading into the fourth quarter, according to the latest results of a quarterly survey.

“We are clearly getting some signals from businesses things are clearly slowing down,” said Rich Wobbekind, senior economist and faculty director with the business research division of the Leeds School of Business at the University of Colorado at Boulder.

But even as concerns mount over the effects of higher inflation, employment remains strong, Wobbekind said. Moreover, expectations for the new year are slightly higher.

Contributors Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac

The Leeds Business Confidence Index fell 1.3 points to 39.8 for the fourth quarter. That’s the fourth-lowest reading in the 20-year history of an index based on surveys of business leaders across the state and industry sectors.

Looking ahead to the first quarter of 2023, the index rose to 41 — the fifth-lowest reading ever, but a 1.2 point gain that could portend a turnaround. Readings below 50 reflect more negative than positive responses.

Along with the overall score, individual scores for each of six metrics the index tracks remained below 50 in the fourth quarter. While expectations for the state and national economies increased, expectations for capital expenditures, hiring, profits and sales all decreased.

Wobbekind said the latest survey results followed two consecutive quarters of decreases in gross domestic product, the broad measure of goods and services produced in the United States. The results also reflected concerns over high inflation and the response of the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates.

In Colorado, inflation is forecast to increase 8.2 percent in 2022 and 4.1 percent in 2023, he said.

CONFIDENCE

Among the business leaders responding to the latest survey, 77 percent reported moderate to extreme inflationary effects on their operations and 98 percent reported at least some effects, he said.

While 57 percent of respondents expected to raise wages to recruit and retain

STORY AND

BY PHIL CASTLE

A motorcycle lighting and accessories manufacturer has announced plans to relocate from Colorado Springs to Mesa County.

The move is expected to include a renovated facility and staff additions.

“We chose Mesa County for several reasons,” said Chris Vestal, founder and president of MotoMinded. “The most important reason is a better quality of life for us and our employees. Outside the shop we love to ride our bicycles and motorcycles, hike and look forward to getting into water recreation on the Colorado River.”

MotoMinded worked with the Grand Junction Economic Partnership on the relocation and

taking advantage of Enterprise Zone tax credits for capital investments, job creation and employee training.

Curtis Englehart, executive director of GJEP, praised the move. “MotoMinded is a very impressive outdoor recreation manufacturing company that has a lot of potential to thrive in their new home.”

MotoMinded designs and manufactures lightemitting diode lights, headlight masks and other motorcycle accessories.

MotoMinded uses several techniques — including additive manufacturing, computer numerical control routing and laser cutting — to produce its products

manufactures and sells a variety of motorycle lighting and accesories.

company announced plans to move its operation to Mesa County, renovating a facility and hiring more staff in the process.

Chris

Rich Wobbekind

Curtis

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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.

West Star Aviation flies to milestone

Whidden expects to draw on all of his experiences in helping Mesa County commissioners make and carry out decisions.

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.”

Company celebrating 75 years in business

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.

A company that provides some of the top-ranked aviation maintenance and repair services in the country traces its origin back three-quarters of a century and to a business founded in Grand Junction.

Meanwhile, Mesa County will continue to pursue efforts that promote a friendly business environment and economic development, Whidden said.

West Star Aviation celebrates 75 years in operations in 2022 and the combination of companies that started in Grand Junction and Illinois.

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

The operation has grown over the years and changed ownership and names. But some things haven’t changed, said Debi Cunningham, vice president of marketing for West Star Aviation.

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.

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.

became a business aircraft maintenance and refurbishment facility.

In 2004, the principals of Premier Air Center acquired what became the West Star Aviation facility in Grand Junction, combining the two operations under the West Star brand.

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.

An expansion followed and included the addition of full-service locations in Chattanooga, Tenn., and Perryville, Mo., as well as smaller satellite locations across the United States. In Colorado, West Star also operates facilities in Aspen and Denver.

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.

In addition, West Star acquired Avant Aerospace and Dallas Aeronautical Services.

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

“Dedication to our original philosophies results in a company that fosters technical expertise, encourages the personal and professional development of our employees and places high value on attention to detail in every aspect of our business,” Cunningham said. “This means a constant focus on customer service and complete satisfaction that is engrained in the very fiber of West Star Aviation, and we are proud to recognize this milestone.”

West Star Aviation traces its roots to a small aviation company founded in 1947 in East Alton, Ill., at what is now St. Louis Regional Airport.

The company changed ownership and names in 1987, becoming Premier Air Center. The operation developed a reputation for technical expertise and personalized service in maintaining and refurbishing airplanes.

Meanwhile, Monarch Aviation was founded in 1952 at what was at that time Walker Field in Grand Junction. What started as a sales and service business

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.

The expansion continues with the addition of facilities in Grand Junction, East Alton and Chattanooga to keep pace with growing demand for maintenance and repair services.

The important thing is to consider issues from a well-rounded perspective, Whidden said. “We won’t be myopic as we look at things.”

In Grand Junction, the expansion will include a 40,000-square-foot hangar. An adjacent, two-story building will offer another 35,000 square feet of shop and office space.

Scheduled for completion in 2023, the project will increase the total operational footprint to 365,00 square feet.

The Grand Junction location is the largest fixed base operator for West Star in providing fueling, deicing and other services.

In addition to more facilities, West Star expects to increasing staffing in Grand Junction with 80 employees now and another 100 employees over the next few years.

West Star Aviation has ranked as the top maintenance, repair and overhaul services provider for eight consecutive years in annual survey compiled for Professional Pilot magazine.

Frank Whidden

West

Aviation operates one of its largest facilities at the Grand Junction Regional Airport, where the company offers a range of maintenance, repair and overhaul services and employs 550 people. (Business Times photo by Phil Castle)

Debi Cunningham

Paying it forward: Staffing firm plans holiday hiring drive

A staffing service with offices in Grand Junction and Montrose once again plans a hiring drive to put more people to work during the coming holiday season.

Express Employment Professionals has scheduled the Pay It Forward Hiring Drive for Nov. 1 to 14.

“Pay it forward to us means working with local businesses to help find jobs for unemployed workers in our community so they can earn a paycheck and help support their families this season,” said Nina Anderson, owner and chief executive officer of the Express Employment Professionals offices in Grand Junction and Montrose.

“Our vision is to lock arms with businesses in Grand Junction and Montrose to bring hope to local families for the holidays,” Anderson said.

Besides helping people provide for their families, the hiring drive will help businesses find the additional staffing they need for what can be a busy season, she said.

In addition, Express Employment Professionals will make a financial donation to the Food Bank of the Rockies for every employee placed between Nov. 1 and 14.

Businesses can help, Anderson said, by hiring Express employees, provide reference letters those employees can use to obtain other jobs and share information about the hiring drive with other businesses.

Express Employment Professionals can help fill short- and long-term assignments for a variety of office, professional, skilled

Nina Anderson, owner of the Express Employment Professionals offices in Grand Junction and Montrose, hopes to put as many people to work as possible during the holiday season.

(Business Times photo by Phil Castle)

and light industrial positions, she said. The firm evaluates and screens associates before placements.

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Express Employment Professionals

in Grand Junction

Nominations sought for BLM councils

Nominations will be accepted through Nov. 4 for positions on three advisory councils involved with the administration of U.S. Bureau of Land Management lands in Colorado.

Nominations are sought for the Northwest, Southwest and Rocky Mountain resource advisory councils. Each council consists of 10 to 15 members representing diverse interests in local communities.

“Resource advisory councils provide the BLM with vital feedback on current issues, concerns and proposals and enable us to engage local communities and stakeholders to improve our management of public lands by listening to diverse voices,” said Doug

Vilsack, state director of the BLM in Colorado.

“Our goal is to ensure that membership of every RAC encompasses a wide variety of perspectives and backgrounds to guide our work as effectively as possible.”

Nominees must live in Colorado. Three categories of members include representatives from industry and recreation organizations, environmental and tribal groups, government officials, agency employees and the public at large.

Nominees are selected based on their training, education and knowledge of council geographic areas as well as their commitment to collaboration.

For more information and nomination applications, call (303) 239-3671 or visit the website at https://www.blm.gov/getinvolved/resource-advisory-council/nearyou/colorado.

Doug Vilsack

Efforts begin to eradicate destructive bug

The Colorado Department of Agriculture has joined with local organizations as well as homeowners to eradicate an invasive insect threatening agriculture and tourism in the Grand Valley.

After a Japanese beetle was detected in Grand Junction this summer, the agency has worked to educate homeowners, set up and traps and plan how to prevent the spread of the insect to other areas of Colorado.

“Adult Japanese beetles are voracious defoliators that feed on more than 300 species of plants, many of which are essential to Western Colorado’s agricultural economy, including peaches, grapes, sweet corn, turf and many other ornamental plants in urban spaces,” said Melissa Schreiner, an entomologist with the Colorado State University Tri-River Extension Office. “Adult beetles feed on leaves, flowers and fruit of trees, shrubs and perennials, while the larvae are serious pests causing root damage to turf grass. We will be working to educate people in the affected area about how to identify and help eradicate this invasive pest.”

Over the winter, the CDA will partner the CSU Tri-River Extension Office, Mesa County and the City of Grand Junction to develop an eradication plan. Mesa County will work with the city and homeowners associations to educate homeowners, assist with treatment costs and encourage participation in the plan.

Pesticide treatments are planned for April to August 2023 with the voluntary participation of homeowners in affected areas.

In addition, a team will analyze information collected this summer to determine the potential financial effects to agriculture, the costs of the treatment and best management practices to eradicate Japanese beetles.

In the spring, the CDA plans to again place traps in a systematic way to complete a broader delimitation survey and determine if treatment protocols are effective in reducing the Japanese beetle population.

CSU Extension agents in the Tri-River Area also are developing a citizen scientist trapping program for the 2023 season to gather more information about the distribution of Japanese beetles.

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

For more information about the Japanese beetle and its life cycle as well as how to participate in the citizen scientist trapping program, contact the Colorado State University Extension Office at (970) 244-1834. Sightings of the Japanese beetle should be reported by calling (970) 248-7000 or visiting https://ag.colorado.gov/plants/japanesebeetle-in-colorado.

Japanese Beetles were first detected in Colorado in 1995. An exterior quarantine was established in 2009 to prevent the pest from coming into the state. An internal quarantine was added in 2018, to prevent the spread of the beetle from 11 Front Range counties with known infestations. Plant nurseries from outside Colorado and in those counties must perform required mitigation protocols before shipping plants into or to other parts of Colorado.

On the Western Slope a Japanese beetle was discovered by a master gardener in 2002. According to the Upper Grand Valley Pest Control District (UGVPCD), efforts to eradicate the insect reduced its population by 99 percent over five years.

“CDA has been trapping and monitoring the Japanese Beetle population in our region for 20 years to assist the Upper Grand Valley Pest Control District. This summer, with a detection of a reproducing population, the county partnered with CDA in setting up additional traps to identify the area where the beetles have concentrated,” said Duncan Dearduff, Mesa County noxious weed and pest management coordinator. “Japanese beetles will devastate ornamental plants and turf across the Grand Valley. We’ve eradicated this pest before. And with strong support from our neighbors and the agricultural community, our goal is to eradicate it from Mesa County once again.”

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Timberline Bank to mark 18th year with Oct. 13 event

Timberline Bank has scheduled an event to mark 18 years in business in Western Colorado.

The free event is set for 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 13 at Timberline Bank branches in Grand Junction as well as Aspen and Montrose. The bank will give away sweet treats.

“At Timberline Bank, we love working in our local communities and have been proud to do so since 2004,” said Jeffery Taets, co-chief executive officer at the bank.

“Now in our 18th year, we continue to focus on the needs of local families, farmers, businesses, schools and nonprofit organizations. We are proud to offer financial opportunities for our communities to grow on the Western Slope. We have a great team that consistently goes above and beyond,” Taets said.

Timberline Bank branches are located at 649 Market St. in Grand Junction, 122 W. Main St. in Aspen and 1561 Oxbow Drive in Montrose.

For more information about the Oct. 13 event or Timberline Bank, call (970) 683-5560 or visit the website at www.timberlinebank.com.

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Ag agency seeks applicants for mental health grants

Applications will be accepted through Nov. 7 for grants supporting mental health services for farmers, ranchers and other agricultural workers in rural communities in Colorado.

The Colorado Department of Agriculture will administer the grants using $200,000 appropriated during the last session of the Colorado Legislature.

“Organizations across Colorado are doing amazing work to destigmatize mental health and help our ag producers cope with everything from farm stress due to drought or rising costs to substance abuse,” said Kristen Boysen, drought and climate specialist and program manager for the mental health grants “Mental health is directly tied to the overall health of our rural and agricultural communities, and this funding will help bolster and expand this work to impact more Coloradans.”

For more information about the mental health grants, send an email to Kristen Boysen at kristen.boysen@state.co.us or visit the website at ag.colorado.gov/rural-mental-health.

According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, 32 percent of Coloradans reported symptoms of anxiety or depressive disorder in 2021. According to Colorado Rural Health, rural youth in Colorado are twice as likely to die by suicide.

Rural communities often experience the affects of mental health issues more acutely than urban and suburban communities because resources are more limited in those areas.

The grant program is designed to increase awareness of mental and behavioral health services and resources in Colorado, provide or help facilitate mental and behavioral health services and continue efforts to destigmatize mental health issues. Grant applicants are asked to think creatively about ways to reach rural communities and expand information about and access to services.

Grant requests should range between $25,000 and $100,000 and include plans to fully spend funding by the end of the state fiscal year on June 30, 2023.

The mental health services is the second program of its type offered by the CDA. Since 2021, the state agency has managed a $500,000 grant program funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

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Egg producers have two years to meet new rules

Egg producers will have two years to meet the requirements of a new state law mandating cage-free environments for hens.

The law goes into effect Jan. 1, but gives farmers two years to transition to cage-free environments for egg-laying hens. Starting Jan. 1, 2025, all eggs produced, transported and sold in Colorado must come from cage-free operations.

“By including enrichments such as scratch areas, perches, nest boxes and dust bathing, cage-free housing allows hens to exhibit their natural behaviors,” said Julie Mizak, egg program manager at the Colorado Department of Agriculture. “Starting next year, egg producers will have two years to phase in these changes into their operations to be compliant.”

CDA rules establish an inspection and certification process for confirming farms are cage-free and outlines a recordkeeping process to affirm eggs sold in Colorado are from certified farms.

There are some exceptions to the requirements, including for farming operations with 3,000 or fewer egg-laying hens.

More information about the new requirements is available by contacting Mizak at julie.mizak@state.co.us or visiting https://ag.colorado.gov/ics/eggs.

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Benefit book sale set

Friends of Mesa County Libraries has scheduled its October book sale.

The benefit sale is set for 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Oct. 20 and 21 and 9 a.m. to noon Oct. 22 at the First Congregational Church, 1425 N. Fifth St. in Grand Junciton.

The sale will feature books as well as compact discs and digital video discs. A collection of rare and collectible items also will be sold.

Only cash will be accepted for transactions. All proceeds from the sale will support the construction of the new Mesa County Libraries branch facility in Clifton.

Colorado network receives FAST funds

A Colorado network of small business centers received $125,000 in the latest round of federal funding to provide specialized training and technical assistance for research and development.

The Small Business Development Center network received the maximum grant awarded through the U.S. Small Business Administration Federal and State Technology (FAST) program. The SBA awarded a total of $5.4 million to 44 recipients.

The SBDC, a network of 14 full-time centers and more than 50 part-time satellite officers across Colorado, was among a total of 32 recipients selected to receive funding for a second or third year.

In Grand Junction, a SBDC operates at the Business Incubator Center.

The FAST program provides small businesses and startups, particularly those in underserved communities, with specialized training, mentoring and technical assistance for research and development.

“When we enable equitable access to federal research funding, we empower more of our nation’s entrepreneurs and scientists to translate their cutting-edge ideas into commercial enterprises,” said SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman.

“This is why doubling our funding of FAST grants and expanding the network of awardees is so critical to building a stronger and more inclusive innovation economy that invests in all of our communities.”

Frances Padilla, director of the Colorado SBA District Office, said she was pleased the SBDC and its TechSource program received funding.

The TechSource program provides specialized assistance for science and technology ventures as well as cybersecurity and risk management education for all businesses.

“Supporting the FAST grant through Colorado’s TechSource program allows our strategic partners at the state level to provide tailored assistance to underserved communities in the research and development space,” Padilla said. “It’s one of many tools used to assist small innovators and disruptors not only evolve their ideas to be commercialized, but help provide unique solutions to federal agencies.”

The FAST program is designed to strengthen the competitiveness of small businesses and startups and help them benefit from the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer programs.

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City schedules informative event at Lincoln Park site

The City of Grand Junction has scheduled an event to inform residents about municipal projects and plans.

What’s branded as a “Get to Know Your City” event is set for 5:30 to 7 p.m. Oct. 27 in the Lincoln Park hospitality suite located at 910 N. 12th St.

Representatives from various city departments will attend to provide information about projects and plans under way in Grand Junction as well as answer questions. Participants are encouraged to provide comments.

The event will be the third in a series of meetings hosted by the city to offer information about city services and activities.

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Isabella Guzman Frances Padilla

Raffle under way to raise funds for animal-assisted therapy programs

Raffle tickets are on sale as part of a fund-raising event for a Grand Valley facility offering animal-assisted therapy programs for children and veterans.

Harmony Acres Equestrian Center has joined with Centennial RV and Moose Country Radio in what’s billed as a RV raffle.

Entrants will purchase a chance to win a 2022 Keystone RV Passport. Valued at more than $52,000, the nearly 30-foot trailer sleeps six.

Raffle tickets sell for $100 each or six for $500 or 13 for $1,000. Only 999 tickets will be sold.

The drawing is scheduled for 7 p.m. Nov. 10 at Gold Mine Bingo, located 511 28 1/4 Road in Grand Junction. The drawing also will be displayed live on the Harmony Acres Facebook page. Entrants need not be present at the drawing to win.

Raffle tickets and more information are available online through the website at https://e.givesmart.com/events/qTV. More information about the Harmony Acres Equestrian Center is available through the website at www.harmonyacresec.org.

Located at Loma, the Harmony Acres Equestrian Center is home to about 40 animals and provides animal-assisted therapy services to those who’ve experienced abuse or trauma as well as people with disabilities and military veterans. About 85 percent of program participants have high financial needs.

“When you drive onto the property at Harmony Acres, you immediately know that you are in a special place that is completely separate from the daily hustle and bustle,” said Christina Douglass, executive director. “All of the cares and worries that the rest of the world carries seem to melt away, and you can experience the gift of being present with yourself and the very special four-legged beings on the property. It is this protected place that makes deep healing possible.”

The Harmony Acres Equestrian Center also takes animals to assisting living homes in the Grand Valley — including a therapy llama named Lola.

“The smiles she brings to so many faces is really something special and unique,” said Morgan Kareus, program director. “These interactions are simple in many ways, but the connections that people make with our animals are deep, sometimes complex and often long lasting.”

Group plans virtual forum with local candidates

The League of Women Voters of Mesa County has scheduled a virtual forum expected to feature a total of seven candidates running for three offices.

The forum is set for 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 13 and will be broadcast as a Zoom webinar. The forum also will be available on Facebook Live.

The link to the Zoom webinar is https://bit.ly/3r50ull. The link to the Facebook broadcast is https://bit.ly/3NFS43j.

The links also are available through the League of Women Voters of Mesa County website at https://lwvmesa.clubexpress.com.

The forum is expected to feature seven candidates. Republican Bobbie Daniel faces Democrat Charles Pink for election to the Mesa County Commission in District 2. Republican Dean Havlik faces Democrat Meaghan Johnson in the race for Mesa County coroner. Three candidates will vie for election as Mesa County clerk and recorder: Libertarian Robert Ballard, Republican Bobbie Gross and Democrat Jeffery Waldon.

Justin Gollob, a professor of political science at Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction, will moderate the forum. He will pose questions to the candidates designed to offer voters information about their qualifications and positions.

A nonpartisan civic organization founded in 1920, the League of Women Voters encourages informed participation in government.

Counselors with the Mesa County Retired and Senior Volunteer Program will be available to help people enroll for Medicare benefits.

Counselors with the State Health Insurance Program will be available from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 28 and Dec. 6 as well as Nov. 1, 9, 18, 22 and 30.

Open enrollment for the 2023 Medicare Part D and Medicare Advantage Plans will continue through Dec. 7.

SHIP counselors offer free services. The state-trained and certified counselors don’t sell or endorse any insurance companies or products. They help Medicare-qualified individuals review options for Medicare, including prescription drug coverage and the Advantage Plan, and make informed decisions about their care.

For more information about SHIP counseling and other services offered by Mesa County RSVP, call (970) 243-9839 or visit RSVPGrandJunction.org.

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RSVP counselors available to help with Medicare enrollment

Agency offers access to Google Career Certificate training program

The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment has joined with Google to connect 500 local job seekers with free access to Google Career Certificates training.

The certificates equip people with skills in data analytics, digital marketing, information technology support and project management.

The online program can be completed in three to six months of part-time study. After finishing the program, graduates have access to an employer consortium of more than 150 companies that considers them for job openings.

More information about the program is available from workforce centers, including the Mesa County Workforce Center in Grand Junction.

Designed and taught by Google employees, each certificate includes more than 150 practice and graded assessments, quizzes or writing assignments. The program also provides resources to help students land a job, such as resume templates, coaching and interview practice.

The program offers stackable credentials recommended by the American Council on Education.

Students working towards a degree can earn a recommendation of up to 12 college credits for completing a certificate — the equivalent of four college courses at the bachelor’s degree level —at schools including Northeastern, Purdue Global, University of Virginia’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies and many others.

Launched in 2018, more than 70,000 people have graduated from the program in the United States.

Priority will be given to those who demonstrate need. Scholarships are available and recipients will need access to a computer, hand-held device or smartphone and the Internet. Those who don’t have access to one or more of these tools can get help from a workforce center. Scholarship recipients must complete the certificate within six months.

The Grand Junction Parks and Recreation Department has scheduled a new event featuring lanterns on water.

Water Lights at Night event planned for Oct. 15 Health care conference on Oct. 13

The event, titled Water Lights at Night, is set for 5:30 to 8 p.m. Oct. 15 at the Butterfly Pond at Las Colonias Park.

The event also will include live music. Food trucks will serve meals, but participants may pack a picnic and bring chairs and blankets. Admission is free.

“Water lanterns have been used in many different cultures for thousands of years, and their meaning can be a very personal one,” said Ken Sherbenou, director of Grand Junction Parks and Recreation. “Grand Junction Parks and Recreation is hoping this event brings the community together for good food and the company of neighbors, friends and family.”

Participants can purchase a lantern online for decorating prior

to the event for $6. Lanterns ordered online will be available for pick up at the event. Lanterns also will be available for purchase at the event for $8. Lantern kits purchased online prior to the event include a paper lantern, LED powered tea-light and a marker. Attendees can also purchase six lantern kits for $30.

More information about Water Lights at Night and the lantern kits is available at https://www.gjcity.org/1245/WaterLights-at-Night.

Lanterns will be launched by the Butterfly Pond about 6:45. City staff will retrieve the lanterns and no trash will be left in the pond. Attendees are welcome to retrieve lanterns to take home if they can be located after they’re launched. The LED lights in the lanterns will be retrieved by staff for reuse.

A conference in Grand Junction is expected to bring together health care leaders and providers from across Colorado.

The Quality Health Network has scheduled its Healthier Together 2022 Summit for 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 13 in the Colorado Mesa University Ballroom.

Based in Grand Junction, QHN helps medical, behavioral and human services providers in Western Colorado share health information to coordinate care, reduce duplication of services and identify individuals at risk. All of the hospitals and more than 90 percent of health care providers in its service area participate in the network.

Marc Lassaux, interim executive director and chief executive officer of QHN, said he’s pleased the summit has returned after a hiatus related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are so glad to be back together in person,” Lassaux said.

“Summit attendees all share the common mission of improving health and wellness in our communities. We’ve all navigated uncharted waters the past three years. But in the end, we are stronger and more efficient because of it. The summit provides an opportunity for us to collaborate and work on our unified mission. We truly are better together.”

Summit participants will hear from more than a dozen industry leaders. The keynote speakers include Kim Bimestefer, executive director of the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy & Financing; and Kathy Buckley, an awardwinning actress, speaker and hearingimpaired comedian.

A panel of medical leaders from around the region will discus solutions for meeting rural health care challenges. QHN leaders will discuss whole person health strategies. Hot topic sessions will offer information about various industry programs.

A resource fair will include 23 booths from representing organizations across the state showcasing services and collaborative efforts.

“It’s going to be a day full of education, networking collaboration and fun. This time we have to collaborate and share is extremely helpful to the future health of the communities we serve,” Lassaux said.

For more information about the summit, call (970) 248-0033 or visit the website at bit.ly/QHNSUMMIT2022. For more information about the Quality Health Network, log on to the website located at www.qualityhealthnetwork.org.

Marc Lassaux

Bear aware: Agency seeks help in avoiding conflicts

Colorado Parks and Wildlife has called for assistance in reducing the growing number of conflicts involving bears across the state.

Between April 1 and Oct. 1, CPW received 3,614 bear reports. That’s up from 3,155 reports for the same span last year.

Most of the reports involve bears trying to access food. Drought conditions and other factors affecting the availability of natural food crops for bears varies across the state, as does the behavior of people when it relates to human-bear interactions.

The number of bear reports increase in the fall as bears prepare to den for the winter and spend up to 20 hours a day on the hunt for 20,000 or more daily calories.

“Bears are biologically driven to pack on calories in preparation for winter, and they spend increasing amounts of time looking for the most efficient way to get food,” said Matt Yamashita, a wildlife manager whose region includes Eagle and Pitkin counties. “Residents must realize it is their responsibility to secure their trash, remove other food attractants such as bird feeders and protect backyard livestock with appropriate electric fencing to avoid conflicts that arise from attracting bears to homes.”

“As usual, trash continues to be the No. 1 attractant leading to reports this year,” Yamashita said. “The solution to controlling these artificial food sources is simple and the

ability lies within the decision space of local residents and visitors. Without a change in human behaviors, there is not likely to be a significant reduction in conflicts.”

Reports of bear conflicts also have increased in Mesa and Garfield counties, said Kirk Oldham, a wildlife manager for the area.

“This year from Fruita to New Castle we have seen more conflicts within town limits. Much of this activity is related to the food failure early this summer. We are seeing bears move into areas that we normally do not have them reported,” Oldham said. “We’re encouraging everyone to make sure that attractants like trash, bird feeders and barbecue grills are properly stored to not attract bears. Additionally, residents should secure doors and close garages. If residents see bears in urban areas or have bears creating issues in the rural areas, please reach out to the local CPW office so we can prevent serious problems before they happen.”

CPW promotes bear aware principles all year long, aiming to minimize interactions that put humans and bears at risk. Being bear aware includes securing trash cans and dumpsters, removing bird feeders, closing garages, cleaning and locking cars and house doors and calling CPW when bears become a nuisance.

F

FOR YOUR

Puzzling Moving

Contiued from page 2 employees, 47 percent planned to increase prices. Fifty percent said they’re cutting expenses and 29 percent planned to postpone expansions. Sixty percent of the respondents said they expect inflation to moderate in 2023, though.

While 17 percent of business leaders said they believe the national economy already has slipped into a recession, 45 percent said they expect a recession to begin in the second half of 2022 and 21 percent in 2023.

Expectations for the Colorado economy edged up two-tenths of a point to 40 for the fourth quarter of 2022. A total of 12.9 percent of respondents anticipated a moderate or strong increase in the economy, 39.3 percent no change and 47.8 percent a moderate or strong decrease.

Expectations for the national economy rose three points. But at 30.7 the score was the lowest among the six metrics for the fourth quarter. While 8 percent of respondents expected moderate or strong increases, 22.1 percent anticipated no change and 70 percent forecast moderate or strong decreases.

The score was highest for hiring at 43.3, although that reading dropped five points from the third quarter. For the fourth quarter, 12.9 percent of respondents expected moderate or strong increases in hiring, 39.3 percent no change and 47.8 percent moderate or strong decreases.

The score for sales fell 4.2 points to 42.2 with 23.3 percent of respondents anticipating moderate or strong increases, 25.8 percent on change and 50.9 percent moderate or strong decreases.

The score for profits fell a half point to 41.7 with 19 percent of those who responded expecting moderate or strong increases, 32.5 percent no change and 48.5 percent moderate or strong decreases.

The score for capital expenditures fell 1.3 points to 40.8. While 15.9 percent of respondents anticipated moderate or strong increases, 41.1 percent no change and 42.9 percent moderate or strong decreases.

Even as the overall and individual scores of the index declined, Wobbekind said other indicators offered encouragement.

Nonfarm payrolls grew 108,300 in Colorado between August 2021 and August 2022. Employment is forecast to increase 4.1 percent in 2022 and 1.8 percent in 2023, he said.

Personal income increased eight-tenths of a percent in the first quarter of 2022 compared to the first quarter of 2021. Per capita personal income rose three-tenths of a percent. Colorado ranked second nationally for both indicators, he said.

F

Contiued from page 2 while also using outsourced work from vendors.

The company obtains as many materials as possible from suppliers in the United States and also contributes to the Colorado Trails Preservation Alliance.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, MotoMinded manufactured and gave away face shields for first responders, hospital staff, nursing homes and nonprofits.

Vestal said he’s eager to complete the move to Mesa County and join with other outdoor recreation-related businesses in the Grand Valley.

“The local outdoor recreation economy has grown to a point we feel can support us, and we look forward to getting involved and help to grow it further,” he said.

MotoMinded will renovate its new facility. Vestal said he also plans to hire several employees, including a full-time production operator.

Puzzling situation

Trends

n Business filings

s New business filings in Colorado, 39,464 in the second quarter, up 0.5 percent from the second quarter of 2021.

n Confidence

s Consumer Confidence Index 108 for September, up 4.4.

t Leeds Business Confidence Index for Colorado, 39.8 for the fourth quarter, down 1.3.

s National Federation of Independent Business Small Business Optimism Index 92.1 for September, up 0.3.

n Foreclosures

s Foreclosure filings in Mesa County, 20 in September, up from 2 in September 2021.

s Foreclosure sales in Mesa County, 14 in September, up from 2 in September 2021.

n Indexes

s Conference Board Employment Trends Index, 120.17 for September, up 1.69.

t Conference Board Leading Economic Index 116.2 for August, down 0.3%.

t Institute for Supply Management Purchasing Managers Index for manufacturing, 50.9% for September, down 1.9%.

n Lodging

s Lodging tax collections in Grand Junction, $441,213 for August, up 2.5% from August 2021.

n Real estate

t Real estate transactions in Mesa County, 371 in September, down 27.2% from September 2021.

t Dollar volume of real estate transactions in Mesa County, $164.9 million in September, down 19.6% from a year ago.

n Sales

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.

n Unemployment

t Mesa County — 3.6% for August, down 0.3.

s Colorado — 3.4% for August, up 0.1.

t United States — 3.5% for September, down 0.2.

Real estate slowdown

The Mesa County market shifting, but still remains healthy overall

Phil Castle Business Times

Real estate activity continues to slow in Mesa County as a combination of rising mortgage interest rates and home prices affect affordability

Contributors Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac

Robert Bray, chief executive officer of Bray & Co. Real Estate in Grand Junction, described the change as a shift from a hot sellers’ market to more of a lukewarm sellers’ market. “It’s moving back to more balance in the marketplace.”

The overall market remains healthy, Bray said.

Annette Young, administrative coordinator at Heritage Title Co. in Grand Junction, said the outlook depends in part on the possibility of recession. But unlike typical recessions, the labor market remains strong and property values keep rising, Young said. “Those two things are a little different this go around.”

Young said 371 real estate transactions worth a total of $164.9 million were reported in Mesa County in September. Compared to the same month last year, transactions declined 27.2 percent and dollar volume fell 19.6 percent.

Ten large transactions accounted for a total of $24.2 million, Young said, including the sales of the building housing Tractor Supply for nearly $5.9 million, a medical facility for $3.4 million and an industrial shop and office for more than $2 million.

Through the first three quarters of 2022, 3,856 transactions worth a total of nearly $1.7 billion were reported. Compared to the same span in 2021, transactions fell 18.1 percent and dollar volume decreased 2.7 percent.

The comparison isn’t entirely fair given the record-setting pace in 2021. But the latest numbers also reflect the effects of

higher interest rates and prices, Young said. “It’s just kind of a sign of the times.”

According to numbers Bray & Co. tracks for the residential market in Mesa County, 279 transactions worth a total of more than $123.5 million were reported in September. Compared to the same month last year, transactions fell 25.6 percent and dollar volume decreased 12.8 percent.

Through the first three quarters of 2022, 2,628 transactions worth a total of more than $1.1 billion were reported. Compared to the same span in 2021, transactions decreased 16.6 percent and dollar volume retreated 1.9 percent.

Bray said the market is moving toward an equilibrium and a more even playing field for buyers and sellers.

The slower pace of sales has bolstered residential inventories. As of the end of September, there were 594 active listings in Mesa County. That’s an increase of 35.6 percent from a year ago and what Bray said was a return to levels last seen in early 2020 before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

New home construction continues to lag, Bray said, as builders face economic uncertainty, higher materials costs and fewer lots upon which to build. Through the first three quarters of 2022, 608 building permits were issued for single family homes in Mesa County. That’s down 16.4 percent from the same span in 2021.

Home prices keep increasing, though. The median price of homes sold during the first three quarters of 2022 climbed on a year-over-year basis 19.3 percent to $389,000.

Bray said he expects the pace of appreciation to slow to low double digits by the end of the year and some asking prices will come down. Overall, though, prices will continue going up.

Property foreclosure activity continues to increase. Through the first three quarters of 2022, 188 foreclosure filings and 39 sales were reported. That contrasts with 21 filings and 15 sales for the same period in 2021.

Young said foreclosure activity hasn’t yet reached a worrisome level, but could.

Bray agreed. “That’s something to keep an eye on.” F

Small business optimism index edges up

A measure of optimism among small business owners has edged up, but concerns persist over inflation, labor shortages and other issues.

“Inflation and worker shortages continue to be the hardest challenges facing small business owners,” said Bill Dunkelberg, chief economist of the National Federation of Independent Business. “Even with these challenges, owners are still seeking opportunites to grow their businesses in the current period.”

The NFIB reported its Small Business Optimism Index rose three-tenths of a point to 92.1 between August and September. The index has remained below its 48-year average of 98 for nine consecutive months.

outlays, down a point. A net 6 percent said they consider now a good time to expand, up a point.

The share of those who expect increased sales rose nine points. But at a net negative 10 percent, more said they anticipated decreased sales.

Expectations for profits rose two points, but only to a net negative 31 percent. Among those reporting lower profits, 42 percent blamed rising materials costs and 21 percent cited weaker sales.

A net 1 percent reported current inventories as too low, down two points. The share of those planning to increase inventories fell four points to a net 0 percent.

Bill Dunkelberg

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

For September, the 10 components of the index were evenly split between increases and decreases.

The portion of NFIB members responding to the survey upon which the September index was based who expect the economy to improve over the next six months fell two points. At a net negative 44 percent, more anticipated worsening conditions.

A net 24 percent of respondents reported plans for capital

The proportion of respondents who said they plan to increase staffing rose two points to a net 23 percent. A net 46 percent reported unfilled job openings, down three points from August.

Asked to identify their single most important problem, 30 percent cited inflation. That’s up from 10 percent a year ago. Another 22 percent cited quality of labor and 10 percent the cost of labor.

A net 51 percent of respondents reported raising average selling prices, down two points from August. Price hikes were most frequent in the retail and construction sectors.

A net 45 percent reported raising compensation, down a point.

A net 23 percent said they expect to raise compensation in the next three months, down three points.

Robert Bray

Annette Young

U.S. payrolls up, jobless rate down

Payrolls increased and the unemployment rate retreated in the United States. But the latest monthly job gains were the smallest in nearly 18 months.

Nonfarm payrolls grew 263,000 as the jobless rate decreased two-tenths of a point to 3.5 percent in September, according to the latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates.

Payroll gains for July were revised upward 11,000 to 537,000. The initial estimate for August remained unchanged at 315,000.

With the latest numbers, payrolls increased an average of 420,000 a month through the first three quarters of 2022. Payrolls grew an average of 562,000 a month in 2021. The September gain was the smallest since April 2021.

For September, 5.8 million people were counted among those unsuccessfully looking for work. Of those, 1.1 million have been out of work 27 weeks or longer. Another 3.8 million people were

counted among those working part-time because their hours were cut or they were unable to find full-time positions.

The labor participation rate edged down a tenth of a point to 62.3 percent, still below the rate before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020.

Payroll gains for September were spread out among industry sectors. Employment increased 83,000 in leisure and hospitality, 60,000 in health care and 46,000 in professional and business services.

The average workweek remained unchanged at 34.5 hours for a fourth consecutive month. The average manufacturing work week held steady at 40.3 hours.

Average hourly earnings increased 10 cents to $32.46. Over the past year, hourly earnings increased 5 percent.

Labor index rises

A monthly index tracking labor trends in the United States has increased — forecasting continued job growth, but at a slower pace.

The Conference Board reported its Employment Trends Index rose 1.69 points to 120.17 in September.

“Job gains are likely to decelerate from their recent pace as the U.S. economy has weakened as the Federal Reserve rapidly raises interest rates,” said Frank Steemers, senior economist at the Conference Board.

COMING ATTRACTIONS

n The Business Incubator Center has scheduled presentations on accounting and startups.

A presentation on cash flows for small business startups is set for noon to 1 p.m. Oct. 18 at the center, 2591 Legacy Way in Grand Junction.

The next sessions of a business startup workshop are set for 2 to 4 p.m. Nov. 3 and Dec. 1. The workshops will cover business planning, financing options, legal structures and licensing requirements. Admission is $55.

Trends

Contributors Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac

The interactive process

Managing medical issues in the workplace can get complicated

In my role advising and representing employers, the situation about which employers inquire most is the interactive process required in determining how to reasonably accommodate disabled employees.

No situation is the same, and my advice varies based on the facts. But some or all of the following factors are present in every discussion:

The interactive process assumes employers and employees engage in cooperative discussions to substantiate the need for and nature of an accommodation.

A bookkeeping boot camp is set for 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 13. 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.

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 and Palisade tourism partnership will join with the Colorado Office of Tourism in hosting a free workshop.

The event is set for 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Oct. 18 at the Wine Country Inn located at 777 Grande River Drive in Palisade. For more information, contact the Palisade Chamber of Commerce at www.palisadecococom or 464-7458.

n The Western Colorado Human Resource Association will offer a presentation on workplace diversity as part of its next monthly membership luncheon meeting.

The meeting is set for 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 19 at the Mesa County Workforce Center, 512 29 1/2 Road in Grand Junction.

Members attend at no additional charge. Others pay $20 to attend in person or $10 to watch a virtual presentation. To register or obtain more information, visit www.wchra.org.

n The next Coffee Club free networking meeting is set for 9 to 10 a.m. Oct. 21 at the FWorks coworking space, 325 E. Aspen Ave. in Fruita. For more information, contact the Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce at https://fruitachamber.org. or 858-3894.

n The Fruita and Western Colorado Latino chambers of commerce have scheduled a joint Business Toolbox presentation on marketing.

The event is set for noon to 1 p.m. Oct. 25 at the Maverick Innovation Center located at 730 Mesa Ave. in Grand Junction. For more information, visit https://fruitachamber.org. or call 858-3894.

n The Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce has scheduled a health summit for 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 26 at the Grand Junction Convention Center, 159 Main St.

The summit will feature guest speakers, seminars and vendor booths. Admission is $65 for chamber members, $75 for others.

To register for obtain more information about upcoming events, contact the chamber at 242-3214 or visit https://gjchamber.org.

Dean Harris

n The employer confronts the employee about inadequate attendance or work performance.

n The employee responds by requesting accommodation for a medical condition the employer might or might not previously have known about.

n The employer asks what accomnodation the employee seeks as well as for medical documentation to support the request.

n The employee’s manager is frustrated by what the manager perceives as the employee’s attempt to avoid consequences for poor performance or unwillingness to attend to work.

n The employee supplies a brief note supplying little or no medical information and summary statement from a doctor the employee needs accommodation.

n The situation drags on as, depending on whose perspective is accepted. The employee is uncooperative and won’t supply information. The employee is frustrated by a process the employee doesn’t understand.

n The business owner or HR manager bangs his or her head on a desk and calls me.

If I had a dollar for every time I counseled an employer on some version of that scenario, I’d be sitting on a warm beach somewhere.

So how should an employer approach potential Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accommodation situations?

Employers must remain aware of a couple of preliminary principles. On one hand, employers are responsible for providing accommodations to disabled employees to assist them in performing the essential functions of their jobs — if the accommodations are reasonable and don’t pose an undue hardship to employers. It’s also employers’ responsibility to determine whether or not an accommodation exists and what accommodation is reasonable. An employer isn’t bound to provide the accommodation the employee requires so long as the accommodation it provides is reasonable.

On the other hand, employees are required to provide enough information about their health condition and the precise limitations those conditions cause so employers know they’re entitled to accommodations and how to reasonably accommodate them. Employers need enough information to determine accommodation is both required and reasonable.

This exchange of information is known as the interactive process and assumes employers and employees engage in cooperative discussions to substantiate the need for and nature of an accommodation. A recent Tenth Circuit case — Dansie v. Union Pacific Railroad Co. — provided guidelines for engaging in the interactive process.

Dansie holds that the ADA requires a “good faith back-and-forth process between the employer and the employee with the goal of identifying the employee’s precise limitations and attempting to find a reasonable

accommodation for those limitations.” While a reasonable accommodation might not exist in a given situation, the employer must “work with the employee to try to find one.” The ADA doesn’t anticipate or allow a “take it or leave it” offer of accommodation from the employer or demand from the employee.

I often see ADA accommodation processes break down because a manager believes from the outset there’s no way to accommodate a particular situation. Or an employee demands a particular accommodation or supplies a doctor’s letter recommending a specific accommodation and won’t consider the employer’s alternatives.

Dansie also holds that when other accommodations aren’t reasonable or present an undue burden to the employer, the employer must consider whether or not it can reassign the employee to a vacant position for which the employee is qualified — a measure the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and multiple courts have tagged as “the accommodation of last resort.” Employers aren’t required to create a new job, promote an employee or move an employee to a position for which the employee isn’t qualified. An employer can’t require an employee to search for their own vacant position or compete with other applicants for a vacant position if the employee is qualified to perform the position.

Situations requiring accommodation of health conditions are often emotionally charged. Every accommodation situation will differ from another. There’s no magic template. The employer’s obligation to reasonably accommodate disabilities will depend on the specific circumstances of each situation. Throw in the fact medical issues also could involve questions of eligibility for Family and Medical Leave Act or workers’ compensation claims, and managing medical issues in the workplace can become complicated.

Dansie touches on a final question I’m frequently asked. Is an employer required to rescind legitimate disciplinary or remedial actions the employer takes before it knows of the need for accommodation? The simple answer is “no,” but a caveat is in order. Many accommodation requests occur after performance issues come to light. An employer might be tempted to view the request as an attempt to avoid responsibility. But that’s not necessarily the case. An employee could be reluctant to share private medical matters until circumstances require it. Don’t let skepticism derail the interactive process.

Managing medical issues in the workplace is a fact-specific process with important consequences for employers and employees. The Employers Council offers resources to members to assist in this process.

Dean Harris is the Western Slope Area managing attorney for the Employers Council. The Employers Council counsels, represents and trains member employers in all phases of employment relationships. Contact Harris at dharris@employerscouncil.org or (970) 852-0190.

Embrace change by focusing on the benefits

Change is a reality in business whether we want it or not. Business environments and economies change. Team dynamics changes. Technology changes rapidly. Life in general is about change. If we resist change, we limit the potential of all that’s available to us professionally and personally.

Many people resist change because they must change as well. Others resist change because they focus on how difficult changes could be, the possible negative outcomes and fear of the unknown. We also become comfortable in our current positions, even if they don’t contribute to our happiness and success.

In our tendency to focus on the difficulties rather than benefits of change, we prevent ourselves from exploring opportunities and taking action. We avoid change because we consider what we perceive as the downsides. This must be overcome with a more balanced perspective to experience increased happiness and success both professionally and personally.

Honest self-appraisal is vital in choosing to change. As you become aware of the negative feelings and undesirable results of your resistance to change, you can use that discomfort to move forward. Most of us reach a point where we can’t take it anymore. Being honest with yourself will help you reach this threshold sooner, saving precious time and resources in creating a reality you do find pleasing and rewarding.

If during your honest self-appraisal, you find you’re not pleased with the way things are going in your business or life, choose to change how you perceive change. By doing

so, you better position yourself to take actions that will improve your situation and lead to happiness and success.

In my coaching and consulting work, I show people how their thoughts and behaviors work against what they want — how they’re actually working against themselves and the happiness and success they desire. I help them develop new thoughts and behaviors to change their reality in positive ways. We focus on the actual reasons for making a change, the process of change and benefits for doing so.

For example: How about letting go of a team member who possesses the skills to do the job, but whose attitude and behavior damages corporate culture, customer relations and the bottom line? If you or your team members walk into the business and feel an aversion to certain team members because of their negativity, change is in order. This situation is common in the business world and becomes more damaging the longer it’s allowed to continue.

Personnel changes are avoided because of the time,

effort and money involved in hiring and training new people. There’s also the fear of the confrontation that can accompany letting someone go. That’s not to mention the fear of retribution, unemployment claims or having former employees bad mouth your business.

As you turn your attention from what at first appears to be the overwhelming effort involved in creating positive change to the benefits, you’ll face change with an energy that makes the effort feel a lot less daunting than originally feared. In other words, a major barrier to change is eliminated when you focus on how it will improve you and the situation.

Change is easier to make when we choose to see it in a positive light. In embracing change, we alter our perception of it from a bad thing to a good thing filled with potential and opportunity. People can accomplish great feats once they open their minds to the possibilities and then take action.

If your business has stalled or is failing, your health is declining or your relationships aren’t fulfilling, face the reality that your resistance to change is diminishing your happiness and success more and more each day. The next step is to make the needed changes.

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. F

Marcus Straub

Change is easier to make when we choose to see it in a positive light. In embracing change, we alter our perception of it from a bad thing to a good thing filled with potential and opportunity. People can accomplish great feats once they open their minds to the possibilities and then take action.

Honesty really is best workplace policy

How do you talk to an employee about his or her shortcomings? Do you provide honest performance reviews? Do you offer praise when warranted and constructive criticism when needed?

Performance reviews and candor go hand in hand, but candor also has a place in everyday interactions in the workplace. At the same time, though, making candor part of company culture isn’t a license to attack or belittle employees or management.

Why is candor so important? Why is it so difficult to do or respond to appropriately? If well-reasoned and planned, candor provides employees — and management, too — with the information, examples, reasons and tools needed to change and improve.

Here are four tips to ensure you conduct candid conversations and performance reviews:

n Put it in writing. Seek out employee suggestions in writing. Organize your feedback in writing. Keep these notes with you when it’s time to have that candid conversation. Putting agreements and discussion points in writing keeps you on track, ensures the conversation is free of drama and increases the likelihood the person on the other end of the conversation receives useful feedback and criticism.

n Don’t stint on the praise for and recognition of a person’s accomplishments and contributions. One technique to convey unpleasant information is to sandwich it between two positive statements. While a useful approach in some situations, this sugar coating could detract from important information. Use it with caution.

n Keep emotions out of the conversation. State “I or we believe ...” rather than “I or we feel…”

n Thank others for allowing you to speak candidly and invite them to respond in kind. To increase the likelihood their responses aren’t overly emotional, suggest they go back to their space to

CANDOR IN THE WORKPLACE

Candor is: Candor isn’t: Clear, direct communication. Indirect hints. Addressing problems and Avoiding unpleasant other situations at once. conversations. Friendly and conversational. Passive aggressive. Taking responsibility. Shifting blame.

think about — and then write down — their responses. Then reconvene to continue the candid conversation.

Candor is especially important in the leadup to performance reviews. Your employees shouldn’t be surprised by their reviews. Regular goal-setting and candid feedback about their progress to reach these goals — documented in writing — eliminates surprises and gives people milestones and measures to objectively measure their progress and accomplishments as well as their shortcomings.

Candid conversations aren’t passive aggressive. They don’t focus on failures and shortcomings. These conversations aren’t an excuse to attack someone on personal or professional levels.

Many people have a difficult time looking at themselves and their performances objectively. They can’t focus on their own weaknesses and need help identifying their areas of weakness and creating a plan to address and improve those areas.

Candid conversations based on a written list of points could constitute the most valuable thing you do for your employees, your company and yourself.

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.

News, views and advice

Quiet quitting a new name for an old problem

We’ve all heard: The new trend is quietly quitting your job. There’s nothing new, though, about the number of people who aren’t engaged in their work.

Kelly Murphy

A Gallup poll conducted in 2015 indicated 50.8 percent of U.S. workers were disengaged and 17.2 percent were actively disengaged — in other words, quiet quitting. Fast forward to 2021, and polling indicated 66 percent of workers were disengaged and 16 percent were actively disengaged. Add in the fact 53 percent of workers report burnout, and employers face challenges. Companies would do well to get ahead of the trend, especially given expectations for work and life balance.

The first step is to recognize signs of disengagement. Employees exhibiting the following behaviors could be signaling they’re ready to exit:

n Missing meetings that aren’t mandatory as well as participating less in meetings they attend.

n Not being as productive as they once were.

n Contributing less to team projects.

n A lack of enthusiasm.

Not all employees who fulfill only the minimum of their job descriptions fall into this category. Perhaps this has been their mode of operation since the beginning of their employment. But changes in commitment, engagement or responses could serve as an “uh oh” moment for managers and human resource professionals.

Once a possible issue is identified, what can be done?

Let’s explore some actions that could reduce their desire to move on and reignite their passion for their work:

n Re-evaluate job descriptions to ensure they reflect the jobs performed and wages earned.

n Highlight the benefits employees often forget about and underutilize. Look to your employee handbooks for sections that were signed off on and overlooked. Remember, you must continually sell your product for it to remain relevant. In this case, the job is your product and your employee is the consumer.

n Invest in employees — all employees. Regardless of the position or title, enhancing their resources, tools and education demonstrates how valuable they are to you.

n Provide such feedback opportunities as stay interviews or upward appraisals for employees to evaluate management staff. Find out what you’re doing well, what could be improved upon and what might entice employees to leave.

n Provide continual feedback by conducting performance evaluations more often. Take advantage of opportunities to catch your employees doing good and recognize them for it.

Now consider the metaphor of a traffic light and employees in what might be described as red, yellow and green categories. Those in the red group are on a performance improvement plan, on their way out or headed toward yellow with some encouragement. Yellow employees are somewhere in the middle. Without challenging them or providing additional training, they could join the red group. Determining what motivates them could turn them into the star employees in the green category. The ultimate goal is to have as many employees in the green group as possible. Keep in mind, though, they won’t stay there on their own.

Another term floating around in the business world is the great reconsideration. Employees and employers alike are re-evaluating different aspects of the workplace and workday. Employers look for ways to improve employee

engagement and satisfaction while employees reconsider career goals and if they can achieve them where they work.

While hybrid work environments remain one of the most sought-after prizes, companies could offer other benefits. Here are four things to consider:

n Reimagine company culture. Look for gaps between leadership and what employees experience. Assess what can be changed. Keep it aspirational, but realistic.

n Rethink the perks of the job. Employees expect flexibility and no longer see it as a perk. Determine other fringe benefits you might offer others won’t or can’t.

n Prioritize real-time over real-life connections. Many employees say the camaraderie in the office brings them back, even if it’s only part of the time. Employers should consider ways to create intentional spaces for peer connections that don’t necessarily involve day-to-day work.

n Invest in career growth. Dust off succession planning processes and create opportunities for as many positions as possible. Offering employees a chance to enrich their careers through upward mobility helps in recruiting and retaining employees not only for the skills needed today, but also in the future.

Job openings still outnumber job applicants — at least those willing to work. Forward-thinking companies benefit from remembering the human aspects of individuals and focusing on relationships instead of numbers.

Kelly Murphy works at Lighthouse HR Support as a human resources business partner. The Grand Junction firm offers a range of HR services for small and mediumsized businesses. For more information, call 243-7789 or visit www.lighthousehrs.net.

F

Tough talks at work could lead to healthier workforces

As we head into fall, our community once again faces two respiratory viruses at the same time — COVID-19 and the flu.

These viruses pose significant challenges to maintaining a healthy workforce. By one estimate, 17 million work days are missed every year nationwide because of the flu, resulting in a loss of $7 billion related to sick days and reduced productivity.

or the flu, it’s still recommended they get vaccinated. The antibodies people develop when they have the virus decrease over time. Vaccines provide higher levels of immunity.

There are also questions about effectiveness, especially since people who are vaccinated can still get infected. No vaccine prevents infection. The level of protection from certain vaccines declines over time. The ultimate goal is to prevent severe illnesses, hospitalizations and deaths.

https://health.mesacounty.us or call 248-6900 to schedule an appointment.

Mesa County Public Health offers flu vaccinations from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to noon Friday. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments are preferred to ensure patients don’t have to wait to be seen. Call 248-6906 for an appointment.

Vaccines offer the best protection for your employees against COVID-19 and the flu. Mesa County Public Health makes it convenient to get these vaccines and also offers resources to help alleviate any concerns people in your company might have.

Sarah Gray

The benefits of vaccines can be a delicate topic to discuss in the workplace. Several strategies can help navigate these difficult conversations. One key strategy is to listen to what employees say. It’s crucial to respect people’s concerns and then provide facts. It’s also important to acknowledge it’s okay for people to raise questions. Remain positive and understanding. Ultimately, you want to create a work environment where people feel safe and supported.

One common concern involves safety. All vaccines have been tested and reviewed. It’s important to point out that even if people have already been infected with a virus like COVID-19

The Omicron variants of COVID-19 remain the most prevalent strains in Mesa County. Updated boosters provide the most protection. Mesa County Public Health has seen a high demand for the bivalent booster formulated to fight against Omicron variants. Unlike the initial COVID-19 vaccines that targeted one strain of the virus, this booster targets both the original strain and latest Omicron variants. Our vaccine clinic serves 100 to 300 people a day.

Flu season runs from October through May, with peak activity typically from mid-February to late April. Mesa County experienced one of its mildest flu seasons in the 2021-2022 season with 18 hospitalizations. The flu changes every year, though. An updated version of the vaccine is needed to develop immunity to the most recent strain of the virus. After vaccination, it takes about two weeks for the body to develop an immune response.

The clinic for COVID-19 vaccines and boosters runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fridays at Mesa County Public Health at 510 29 1/2 Road in Grand Junction. Log on to the website at

Drive-through flu clinics are set for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Oct. 15 and 28 in the parking lot at Mesa County Public Health. Participants should bring IDs and insurance cards. Insurance typically covers flu vaccinations. Other options are available to those who don’t have insurance.

Mesa County Public Health also offers on-site flu vaccine clinics for local businesses. If your company is interested in hosting one, visit https://health.mesacounty.us for a request form. It’s a convenient way to make sure your employees are protected this flu season.

If your employees have additional questions about vaccines, staff is available to answer questions.

Being willing to have tough conversations in the workplace about vaccinations and ensuring your employees are aware of opportunities to get vaccinated could help lead to a healthier workforce this fall season.

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

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Partnerships key in achieving health care goals

The Grand Valley is full of examples of strong partnerships. The spirit of collaboration that pulses through the veins of this community is not only special, but also effective and promotes innovation.

Monument Health is proud to be a part of many local collaborative and innovative efforts. Our superpower is collaboration. Without it, we couldn’t accomplish our goals. Our team is small, but functions as a convener, pulling together hundreds of health care providers across the valley, partnering with health insurance plans and forging partnerships with local employers and other organizations. Our goal is to bring people together to accomplish our threefold mission — high quality health care, improved outcomes and, ultimately, lower costs. One of our partnerships that recently deepened involves Mesa County School District 51. Like many employers across the country, D51 experienced doubledigit increases in health care costs in recent years. These costs exceeded budget, and D51 administrators and board members knew a change could be needed. Late last spring, D51 announced it was going to accept bids for its health insurance network, specifically seeking competitive pricing, care coordination and wellness services as well as long-term partnership.

In August, the Mesa County Valley School District 51 Board of Education voted unanimously to support a bid from Monument Health.

It was a humbling moment for us. The ability to assist D51 speaks to so many dimensions of our work and aligns with our mission. Education constitutes a core social determinant of health. We know that by supporting our educators, we support the education of our children. Higher educational outcomes are linked to so many key building blocks of our society — most notably economics and health. Partnering to improve the health and well-being of educators will push ripple effects across our community for years to come.

Some of the effects will be more immediate. With the savings Monument Health offers, it’s expected D51will balance its budget within the first year. Employees will experience health insurance premium relief — in many cases more than $3,500 a year. Paying less for health insurance effectively results in a pay increase.

The partnership of our two organizations begins now. Our next step will be assisting D51 with getting the word

out about these new benefits and encouraging employees to access them. Monument Health has scheduled 13 events in October in which D51 employees can come and ask questions and enroll for benefits. We will be joined by representatives from our network of doctors and providers who can answer questions and facilitate new patient appointments.

We’re also engaged with D51 in a strategic planning effort, specifically supporting the pillar of prepared and supported staff. While Monument Health is here to help employees who require medical care, we’re also excited to rejuvenate a staff wellness effort focusing on prevention and well-being. The best kind of health care is the kind you don’t need to access in the first place.

We’re thrilled about this partnership and look forward to engaging with D51 to pursue innovations in health care and wellness. We believe this deep level of collaboration constitutes a winning formula for creating meaningful, long-term community partnerships centered around shared goals for high-quality health care, improved outcomes and lower costs.

Ashley Thurow serves as executive director of Monument Health based in Grand Junction. Monument Health operates the largest clinically integrated health care network in Western Colorado, serving nearly 23,000 people. For more information, visit the website at https://monumenthealth.net.

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How unbalanced supply and demand affects real estate

The law of supply and demand constitutes a basic principle of economics. But in the case of real estate, unbalanced supply and demand dynamics create sellers’ and buyers’ markets.

n What makes a sellers’ market?

The supply tipping point for the market to favor sellers occurs when the supply drops below six months of inventory. That’s the time it would take to sell all the inventory on the market at the current pace of sales if no other properties come on the market.

Imbalanced markets grab most of the headlines. But balanced markets featuring an equilibrium between the demand for and supply of available homes for sale promote steady growth over the long term.

accept them. Homes remain on the market for a moderate amount of time — neither lagging for months nor getting snapped up in mere hours or days. Home prices remain stable or grow at a steady pace.

n What market are we in right now?

Beyond the direct real estate statistics, many factors influence the housing market, including mortgage interest rates, inflation, employment, investment, construction, immigration, government assistance programs and the health of local and world economies. All these factors affect the supply and demand of the market, which in turn affects the balance of power between buyers and sellers.

Stewart Cruickshank

In a sellers’ market, buyers compete over homes, bidding high or entering a bidding war. At the least, they must move quickly because they know competition is fierce. This fast-moving market with fast-rising prices that benefits sellers.

n What makes a buyers’ market?

When the market shifts the other way and supply rises above six months of inventory. When inventory is high, buyers can move carefully and slowly, knowing homes are unlikely to sell quickly or another, similar home will be

available soon. Buyers can make lower bids, especially on homes that have been on the market for a long time. They avoid bidding wars because there are more than enough houses to go around.When buyers can take their time and find a fairly priced home, they enjoy the advantage.

n What makes a balanced market?

Imbalanced markets grab most of the headlines. But balanced markets featuring an equilibrium between the demand for and supply of available homes for sale promote steady growth over the long term. Buyers tend to make reasonable offers on homes and sellers tend to

In Mesa County, we’re seeing a slow, but steady, swing back towards the center. Indicators are moving in favor of both sellers and buyers. But the overall real estate market remains strong.

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

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Ashley Thurow

Partnering to improve the health and well-being of educators will push ripple effects across our community for years to come.

System isn’t federal, and there’s no reserve

Headlines about the Federal Reserve coming to the economic rescue of the United States have dominated media. Consumers can tell the economy isn’t healthy because they pay increasing amounts for such necessities as fuel, groceries, housing and utilities. Headlines would have people believe the Federal Reserve can solve the problem. That confidence might be misplaced, though, because the Federal Reserve is part of the problem.

What is the Federal Reserve? The very name constitutes a contradiction. he Federal Reserve isn’t federal. There’s no reserve. Moreover, it’s not a bank.

Phyllis Hunsinger

The story of the Federal Reserve and how it’s gained so much power over the economy has many chapters following an ingenious plan by wealthy financiers. Anthony Sutton — a former research fellow at the Hoover Institution for War, Revolution and Peace — put it this way: “The Federal Reserve System is a legal private monopoly of the money supply operated for the benefit of the few under the guise of protecting and promoting the public interest.” That statement sounds harsh, but history verifies the assertion.

The Federal Reserve dates back to 1910, when seven representatives of wealthy bankers meeting on Jekyll Island in Georgia agreed on a framework much like a banking cartel. As G. Edward Griffin explained in his book, “The Creature from Jekyll Island,” the goal of the group was to maximize profits by minimizing competition between members, make it difficult for new competitors to enter the finance field and use the police power of government to enforce the agreement. This agreement created the blueprint for the Federal Reserve System. This group of bankers was successful in acquiring government support. In 1913, the Federal Reserve Act became law.

By 1913, there was a lot of competition in the finance sector as an outgrowth of free market interest rates. According to Griffin, “Rates were low enough to attract serious borrowers who were confident of the success of their business ventures and of their ability to repay, but they were high enough to discourage loans for frivolous ventures.”

Fixing prices to prevent competition is counter to free markets, but that’s what happened. The Federal Reserve System tipped the free market scales in favor of debt over thrift. This can be observed through the bailouts of bankrupt industries. The money to bail out failed industries was made possible by the Federal Reserve System acting as the “lender of last resort” and creating money on the balance sheet, thus weakening the dollar.

The United States federal government has amassed the biggest debt in the history of the world — debt that continues to grow at a relentless rate. As Nick Giambruno summarized in an article titled “It’s Game Over for the Fed,” “Congress spends trillions more than the federal government takes in from taxes. The Treasury issues debt to cover the difference. The Federal Reserve creates currency out of thin air to buy the debt. In short, this insidious process is nothing more than legalized counterfeiting.”

Every Congress and administration since the early 1900s have recklessly spent more money than was collected in taxes, incurring unsustainable debt. The Federal Reserve isn’t federal and has no reserve. It’s no bank. But the Federal Reserve has contributed to the serious inflation, devalued money and staggering debt of the United States.

The root of the financial problems appears to be irresponsible politicians.

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

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PLANS FOR SECOND LOCATION IN THE GRAND VALLEY

Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac

Bellco Credit Union has announced plans to open a second location in the Grand Valley.

The 3,000-square-foot branch will be located at 570 32 Road in Clifton and offer full- and self-service banking options, including an express teller machine and drive-up automated teller machine. Financial representatives will work there to help members with their loan and deposit needs.

Bellco also operates a branch at 2478 U.S. Highway 6 & 50 in Grand Junction.

“Western Colorado continues to see tremendous growth, and we have more than 3,000 members in this region,” said John Rivera, chief retail officer of Bellco Credit Union. “It’s important for Bellco to serve the financial needs of its members where they live and work, and it’s time to add a second location in this area of the state. Clifton is the perfect community for our continued expansion.”

Bellco operates 26 branches across Colorado serving a total of 360,000 members. For more information, visit www.bellco.org.

n HBA OF WESTERN COLORADO PARADE OF HOMES SCHEDULED TO CONTINUE OCT. 14 TO 16

An annual event showcasing the work of Mesa County builders is scheduled to continue Oct. 14 to 16.

The Housing and Building Association of Western Colorado will present the Parade of Homes from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 14 and 15 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 16. Tickets sell for $15 and are available at Grand Junction area Safeway stores

“It’s a great way for the public to come and see the beautiful new homes that are being built in Mesa County,” said Kelly Maves, a member of the HBA of Western Colorado board of directors. “People come to look, but typically leave very inspired. Each home is unique, and there’s truly something for everyone.”

The event will feature nine homes ranging in size from 1,512 square feet to 2,828 square feet and price from under $500,000 to more than $1 million. Participating builders will include Alta Home Builders, BOA Builders, Conquest Construction, Dahl Built Homes, Maves Construction, North Peak, Nostrand Homes, Senergy Builders and TreyTyn Homes.

Parade of home participants will vote for a people’s choice award in three price categories.

For more information, visit www.gjparade.com.

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n COMMUNITY HOSPITAL RECEIVES PATHWAYS TO EXCELLENT DESIGNATION

Community Hospital in Grand Junction has received a designation recognizing its efforts to create a healthy work environment for nurses. The American Nurses Credentialing Center bestowed the Pathway to Excellence designation to the hospital.

“This prestigious designation speaks volumes in our commitment to providing top notch care to the Grand Valley and upholding our values for our staff,” said Joe Gerardi, chief operating officer and chief nursing officer at Community Hospital. “Our team worked tirelessly to achieve this designation and validates our assurance to providing a safe and healthy environment for our patients. This would not be possible without our outstanding staff.”

The Pathway to Excellence designation recognizes a commitment to a work environment in which nurses play an integral role in health care with a voice in policies and practices, in turn improving safety and patient outcomes.

Community Hospital provides inpatient care and a range of outpatient diagnostic services. For more information, visit the website at https://yourcommunityhospital.com.

n FRUITA FARMERS MARKET TO CONTINUE ON SATURDAYS THROUGH OCTOBER

The Fruita Farmers Market is scheduled to continue on Saturdays through October.

The market runs from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Reed Park off South Elm Street. The event offers fresh local produce as well as handmade crafts and ready to eat foods.

The final family fun day of the season is set for Oct. 15 and will include carriage rides from JRs Carriage and a bounce house from Shires Bounce Rental. The final farmers market is set for Oct. 29 and will include pumpkin carving and candy for trick or treaters.

The Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce hosts the market with sponsorships from Atlasta Solar Center, the City of Fruita, Family Health West, KKCO 11 News and U.S. Bank. For more information, call 858-3894 or send an email to events@fruitachamber.org

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Nominations sought for technology sector awards

Nominations will be accepted through Nov. 14 for annual awards presented by the Colorado Technology Association.

The Apex Awards program recognizes the accomplishments of companies and individuals working in the technology sector in the state.

Awards are presented to companies, emerging firms and projects. In addition, individual awards are presented to advocates,

emerging leaders, entrepreneurs, executives, talent champions and youth tech leaders.

The Apex Awards will be presented as part of the CTA Tech Summit scheduled for Feb. 15 in Denver.

For nomination forms or additional information about the Apex Awards, visit https://coloradotechnology.org/apex-awards.

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A Grand Junction-based defense contractor and its environmental health and safety manager have received statewide recognition for their efforts to reduce emissions and hazardous wastes.

Capco and Jeff Purdy received the 2022 24-Karat Gold Award from the Colorado Green Business Network. A voluntary program of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, the network encourages and rewards organizations for increasing the efficiency and sustainability of their operations. Gold-certified members of the network select the 24-Karat Gold Award winner.

Using energy management assessments independently and in conjunction with the Colorado industrial strategy management program, Capco reduced emissions of carbon dioxide by 500,000 pounds in a nine-month period. Capco also reduced hazardous waste by 89 percent since 2019 by adjusting facility processes, following federal waste reduction recommendations and fostering a culture in which employees suggest improvements.

Purdy serves as the chairman of the Recycle Colorado Western Slope Council, leads the Western Slope Colorado Green Business Network group and participates in the Clean Tech Business Coalition. He worked with local schools to build benches supporting solar charging stations for personal electronic devices.

Capco designs, engineers and sells a range of products to the U.S. Department of Defense as well as law enforcement agencies and international customers. For more information, visit https://capcoinc.com.

Jeff Purdy

John Rivera

Joe Gerardi

Kelly Maves

Business Briefs Business People Almanac Business Briefs Business People Almanac

n RETIRED AND SENIOR VOLUNTEER PROGRAM ANNOUNCES NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Dave Carlo has joined the Mesa County Retired and Senior Volunteer Program as executive director.

Carlo works with staff, board members and more than 600 volunteers who donate their time to handyman, health insurance and senior scholar programs as well as partnering agencies.

“I believe to lead is to serve, and Mesa County RSVP’s mission to change lives, one volunteer at a time, is central to strengthening our community,” Carlo said. “I am excited to be a part of it. I look forward to expanding the visibility of the volunteer spirit in the Grand Valley and statewide.”

Carlo previously worked more than 27 years in Mesa County School District 51 as a social studies teacher and assistant principal. He also coached football and track. He served on various boards and taught and coached others in leadership and service.

He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Colorado at Denver.

Dorrie Handley, a member of the Mesa County RSVP board, praised Carlo’s selection. “Dave clearly demonstrated he has the dedication and the passion to lead us in our work to fufill our mission.”

For more information about Mesa County RSVP, visit www.rsvpgrandjunction.org.

n APPOINTEE SELECTED TO FILL VACANCY ON FRUITA CITY COUNCIL

Aaron Hancey has been appointed to fill a vacancy on the Fruita City Council.

Hancey will fill the remainder of a term ending April 18, 2024.

“I appreciate the trust the city council has put in me to fill the vacancy on the open city council seat,” he said.

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n REAL ESTATE COMPANY HONORS BEST-SELLING AGENT FOR SEPTEMBER

John Sabal was honored as the top-performing agent for September at Heiden Homes Realty in Grand Junction.

Sabal posted the highest dollar volume in sales for the month. He tied with Cynthia Castaneda, Toni Heiden, Serena Salgado and Kathy Tomkins for most closings.

Oct. 13

n Palisade Chamber of Commerce community over coffee event featuring local officials and candidates, 9:30 to 11 a.m., Sauvage Spectrum Winery, 676 38 1/4 Road, Palisade.Admission $10. www.palisadecoc.com or 464-7458

Oct. 18

n Fruita and Palisade tourism partnership free workshop with the Colorado Office of Tourism, 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Wine Country Inn, 777 Grande River Drive, Palisade. 464-7458 or www.palisadecoco.com

n Presentation on cash flows for small business startups, noon to 1 p.m., Business Incubator Center, 2591 Legacy Way, Grand Junction. 243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org Oct. 19

Aaron Hancey

Hancey was appointed following the resignation of Heather O’Brien, who was elected in 2020 to a four-year term.

Hancey was among five applicants who were interviewed for the position.

“We had a lot of great candidates and appreciate the candidates’ willingness to serve the community. We look forward to serving with Aaron on city council,” said Fruita Mayor Joel Kincaid.

Sabal has worked in real estate since 2012 and also works as operations manager for PureLine Treatment Systems.

John Sabal

In addition to his other managerial and entrepreneurial endeavors, he owned the Palisade Café and Wine Bar.

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.

n FOUR GRAND VALLEY RESIDENTS NAMED TO STATE BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS

Four Grand Valley residents have been named to state boards and commissions.

Jay Seaton of Grand Junction was appointed to the America 250-Colorado 150 Commission created to plan the official observances of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and 150th anniversary of Colorado statehood.

Melissa Calhoon of Grand Junction was appointed to the Governor’s Commission on Community Service.

Sue Noffsinger of Grand Junction was appointed to the State Board of Licensed Professional Counselor Examiners.

Angie Wickersham of Fruita was reappointed to the Colorado Brain Injury Board, which reviews applications and awards grants from the Colorado Brain Injury Trust Fund.

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Pinnacol Assurance names vice president of public affairs

Wes Parham has joined Pinnacol Assurance as vice president of public affairs for the Colorado workers’ compensation insurance provider.

Parham is involved in community relations, external advocacy, legislative strategy and lobbying efforts.

Parham brings to his duties exprience as a government relations executive, including the last seven years as director of regional government affairs at Xcel Energy. He began his career as a congressional staffer and also worked on statewide political campaigns.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science

and master’s degree in public administration from the University of Colorado.

“Wes brings experience, enthusiasm and a deep sense of purpose that aligns perfectly with Pinnacol’s mission of providing caring protection to Colorado,” said John O’Donnell, president and chief executive officer.

Pinnacol Assurance is a leading provider of workers’ compensation insurance, covering more than 1 million workers in Colorado. For additional information, visit www.pinnacol.com.

n Western Colorado Human Resource Association monthly membership meeting and presentation on workplace diversity, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Mesa County Workforce Center, 512 29 1/2 Road, Grand Junction. Members attend at no additional charge. Others pay $20 for the in-person vent, $10 for the virtual presentation. www.wchra.org

n Fruita and Palisade Chamber of Commerce joint business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m., 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. 464-7458 or www.palisadecoc.com Oct. 21

n Coffee Club free networking meeting, 9 to 10 a.m., FWorks, 325 E. Aspen Ave., Fruita. 858-3894 or https://fruitachamber.org Oct. 25

n Fruita and Western Colorado Latino chambers of commerce joint Business Toolbox presentatation on marketing, noon to 1 p.m., 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., chamber offices, 360 Grand Ave., or by Zoom meeting. https://gjincubator.org or 243-5242

n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m., Grand Junction Convention Center, 159 Main St. Admission $10 in advance, $12 at the door. https://gjchamber.org or 242-3214

Oct. 26

n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce health summit, 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Grand Junction Convention Center. Admission $65 for chamber members and $75 for others. 242-3214 or https://gjchamber.org

n Western Colorado Human Resource Association free virtual roundtable discussion for members on employee retention, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. www.wchra.org

Almanac

Continued from page 34

Upcoming

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 Young Professionals Network of Mesa County business after hours paint and pour event, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Oct. 27, Angelo’s Pottery, 2478 Patterson Road, Grand Junction. www.ypnmc.org

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 Business startup workshop, 2 to 4 p.m. Nov. 3, Business Incubator Center. Admission $55. 243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org

n Palisade Chamber of Commerce member harvest party, noon to 2 p.m. Nov. 5, location to be announced. 464-7458 or www.palisadecoco.com

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 Palisade Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Nov. 16, St. Katheryn’s Cellars, 785 Elberta Ave. Advance admission $5 for members and $8 for others. Admission at the door, $6 for members and

$10 for others.464-7458 or www.palisadecoco.com

n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Welcome Thursday Friends networking lunch, noon to 1:30 p.m. Nov. 24, 206 E. Aspen Ave., Fruita. https://fruitachamber.org

n Business startup workshop, 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 1, 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. Dec. 8, Alpine Bank, 125 N. Park Square. Admission $5 for chamber members, $10 for others. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3893

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

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