The Business Times Volume 30 Issue 22

THE BUSINESS T IMES News NOVEMBER 23-DECEMBER 6, 2023

THE DEFINITIVE SOURCE FOR GRAND JUNCTION BUSINESS NEWS SINCE 1994

In this issue

VOLUME 30, ISSUE 22

THEBUSINESSTIMES.COM

Trends 2 Contributors Opinion 4 Here Business Briefs 5 comes Business People Almanac the sun

n It’s a Breeze

Breeze Airways announced plans to soon offer service between Grand Junction and airports in Utah and California.

n For the kids

A festive holiday celebration raises money for HopeWest and its counseling and grief services for children and teens.

n Acquisition

A company that provides anodes and other cathodic protection materials and services has been acquired.

n Taxing matters Sales tax collections lagged in Mesa County in October, but tax collections for 2023 still outpaced those in 2022.

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n Holding steady

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The monthly jobless rate remained unchanged in Mesa County in October and is expected to hold steady.

n Group effort

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Membership in the Western Colorado Human Resource Association offers many benefits to HR professionals.

n Departments Almanac Business Briefs Business People Contributors News Opinion Trends

30 28 30 21-25 2-18 26 19-20

n Solar energy manufacturer relocates its operation to Grand Valley.

See page 2

Daniel Delano leads Skyhook Solar as the co-foundrer, president and chief executive officer.

The company relocated its operation to Grand Junction and expects to soon begin manufacturing transportable solar generators used for a variety of purposes, including charging electric vehicles and bicycles.

Business Times photo by Phil Castle

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 67 The Business Times 609 North Ave., Suite 5 Grand Junction, CO 81501

THE BUSINESS T IMES News The Business Times

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November 23-December 6, 2023

Trends It’s a Breeze: Here comes Airline plans Contributorstake flight in the sun Opinion Grand Valley Business Briefs D Business People Almanac Solar manufacturer brings operations to Grand Junction

aniel Delano envisions a transition from fossil fuels to electricity to power transportation. And he expects his company to not only contribute to that transition, but also counter climate change in the process.

“It’s important to try and do this,” says Delano, co-founder, president and chief executive officer of Skyhook Solar.

The company recently relocated to a larger facility in Grand Junction that will accommodate commercial production of solar stations that charge electric vehicles and bicycles as well as serve other purposes.

A key attribute of the stations, Delano says, is their portability. They can be quickly moved and deployed where they’re needed — whether that’s an urban setting in which it would be expensive to dig trenches to connect to the grid or a more remote area without electrical service.

Delano hopes to slowly ramp up production to 80 units in 2024. But given what he expects will be growing demand, it’s possible annual production ultimately could increase to 1,000 units.

Electric vehicles don’t yet dominate the market. But given laws in states like California and New York phasing in EVs, they soon will, he says. And that will require additional infrastructure — and stations like Skyhook Solar provides.

Delano says he joined with a long-time friend, William Gilmore, to found Skyhook Solar in 2019.

Gilmore serves as chief product officer.

Delano previously worked in the hospitality construction industry in Aspen, but says he came out of a brief retirement in part because of his growing concerns about the effects of climate change.

He says he recognized a role for solar energy in supporting a transportation transition by charging electric vehicles as well as the electric bicycles used in bike share programs.

Daniel Delano leads Skyhook Solar as co-founder, president and chief executive officer. The company recently relocated to Grand Junction and expects to soon begin manufacturing transportable solar stations that can be used for a variety of purposes.

A D6 station set up outside the company’s facility in Grand Junction can charge two electric vehicles at the same time.

Skyhook Solar began working with PBSC Urban Solutions to supply solar-powered charging stations for the WE-cycle bike sharing program in the Roaring Fork Valley. Skyhook Solar subsequently provided 10 stations from Aspen to Carbondale.

The company has provided stations to other cities on a pilot basis, Delano says, including Detroit and Montreal. He sees the opportunity for further expansion in cities in the United States and Canada as well as into Europe.

Skyhook Solar moved from Carbondale to Grand See SUN page 16

STORY AND PHOTOS BY PHIL CASTLE

Officials hailed plans to bring additional commercial service to the Grand Junction Regional Airport.

Breeze Airways announced it expects to launch three routes in 2024 that will offer service between Grand Junction and Orange County-Santa Ana and San Francisco in California as well as Provo, Utah.

“We are honored to welcome Breeze to Colorado,” said Angela Padalecki, executive director of the Grand Junction Regional Airport.

“These destinations are top markets for travelers in the region, and we can’t wait for Breeze to bring the California coast and the Colorado mountains closer together for our travelers.”

Jeff Hurd, vice president of the Angela Padalecki Grand Junction Regional Air Service Alliance, agreed. “Breeze’s mission of nice people flying nice people to nice places perfectly aligns with the air service goals of the Grand Junction Regional Air Service Alliance. These new routes are a testament to this community’s investment in aviation and represents a big win for all of us.”

Tom Doxey, president of Breeze Jeff Hurd Airways, said the company focuses on bringing additional services to underserved markets. “As we introduce service from Grand Junction, we’re proud to bring affordable and convenient new travel options to three great destinations in California and Utah.”

Breeze Airways expects to offer nonstop flights between Grand Tom Doxey Junction and Orange County-Santa Ana in Southern California on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays beginning Feb. 6.

Also beginning Feb. 6, the airline will offer service between Grand Junction and Provo, Utah, on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays.

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

Grand Junction is among seven cities in which Breeze Airways plans to start service in early 2023. They also include Burlington, Vt.; Evansville, Ind.; Madison, Wis.; Myrtle Beach, S.C.; the Stewart and Newburgh area of New York; and Wilkes-Barre and Scranton in Pennsylvania.

“In 2024, we will be adding even more dots to our expanding network while connecting the dots between existing cities across the U.S. so more and more people can experience our unique hospitality and affordable, yet premium, product offering,” Doxey said.

Based in Salt Lake City, Breeze Airways operates a total of 150 year-round and seasonal routes between 46 cities in 27 states. The company operates Airbus A220-300 and Embrarer 190-195 aircraft.

See BREEZE page 18

November 23-December 6, 2023

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The Business Times 609 North Ave., Suite 5 Grand Junction, CO 81501 (970) 424-5133 www.thebusinesstimes.com The Business Times is published twice monthly and distributed throughout Grand Junction, Fruita and Palisade.

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November 23-December 6, 2023

It’s for the children: Benefit show supports HopeWest programs Phil Castle

The Business Times

Judian Wyatt can recite the statistics for the number of children and teen-agers HopeWest serves through its counseling and grief programs in Western Colorado.

But Wyatt, a youth counselor with the Grand Junctionbased organization, prefers another metric.

“It changes lives, and I love looking at it this way.”

That makes an annual holiday benefit Judian Wyatt HopeWest stages to raise money for those programs all the more important.

Debbie Horwitz, senior vice president and chief development officer at HopeWest, said the holiday show and the support it Debbie Horwitz engenders raises about half the $500,000 budgeted each year for HopeWest Kids programs. “Our community comes together to make it happen.”

Those programs are in turn part of a mission to provide hospice, palliative care and grief support services in a large area of the Western Slope.

The HopeWest holiday show was staged for the first time in the Colorado Mesa University Center ballroom with performances on both a Saturday and Sunday.

The event included lunch, a silent auction and a show featuring entertainment and fashion.

FOR YOUR INFORMATION For more information about HopeWest, including HopeWest Kids programs, visit the website at www.hopewestco.org.

Horwitz said HopeWest took over the show 14 years ago. Before that, the event served as a benefit for the St. Mary’s Hospital Foundation. The HopeWest holiday show has become a popular event among participants who attend every year, she said.

“It’s a tradition. There’s this sense of kicking off the holidays.”

It’s also a good time for a good cause, Horwitz said, in supporting HopeWest Kids programs.

Wyatt said those programs have served a total of more than 500 children and teens so far in 2023 through individual and group counseling as well as school groups. HopeWest also offers camps and retreats for children and teens.

By one estimate, one in 13 children in Colorado will experience the loss of a parent or sibling by the age of 18, Wyatt said. Those experiences can be even more traumatic when they involve suicide, homicide or drug-related deaths.

Every child grieves in a unique way.

But they all need validation what they’re experiencing is natural and normal, Wyatt said. They all need to tell their stories and for someone to listen.

Art, music, sports and other activities offer yet another important part of support services, Wyatt said. And that’s to experience fun. “We have a heck of a lot of fun.”

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HopeWest names new chief financial officer

An accountant, consultant and controller with experience in health care has been hired as the new chief financial officer of HopeWest based in Grand Junction.

Peter Schoomaker succeeds Sarah Walsh, who served 26 years before transitioning into an accounting role.

“We are thrilled to welcome Peter to the HopeWest team.

His financial acumen, dedication to our mission and passion for our community make him the ideal leader to guide our financial operations,” said Cassie Mitchell, president and chief executive officer. “We also voice deep gratitude to Sarah, who has served HopeWest and our mission so commitedly for 26 years.”

Schoomaker said he’s excited about his new role. “It is truly an honor to be given the opportunity to serve in a leadership Peter Schoomaker position for an organization with such an outstanding reputation in one of the most beautiful parts of the country. I’m thrilled to join this outstanding leadership team in efforts to ensure HopeWest continues to provide exceptional care to its community now and well into the future.”

Schoomaker began his career in public accounting as a financial statement auditor with KPMG in Dallas. He subsequently worked as an auditor and consultant with Plante Moran in Denver. In 2018, he became controller for Care Synergy, a network of nonprofit, community based hospice, home health and palliative care organizations serving the Front Range. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Trinity University in San Antonio and master’s degree in accounting from Texas Christian University in Fort Worth.

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November 23-December 6, 2023

The Business Times

Corrosion firm acquires Grand Valley operation

A Grand-Junction based supplier to the energy industry has been acquired as a part of an effort to expand operations.

Stuart Steel Protection announced it acquired Northwestern Cathodic.

With locations in Grand Junction and Greenville, S.C., Northwestern Cathodic provides anodes and other corrosion protection materials and services for oilfield production equipment and utilities.

Stuart Steel Protection operates locations in New Jersey and Georgia in manufacturing and distributing magnesium anodes and other corrosion protection products to the energy, utilities and telecommunications industries. The acquisition of Northwestern Chris Moore Cathodic doubles the company’s workforce and geographic scope.

Stuart Steel Protection in turn was acquired in January by Integrated Utility Services based in Houston to better meet the maintenance, operations and repair needs of the energy industry.

Chris Moore, the founder and president of Northwestern Cathodic, will join Stuart Steel Protection as chief strategy officer.

“I’m extremely proud of what the NWCAT family has accomplished over the last seven years, and I have no doubt that we have partnered with the right team to take what we’ve built to the next level,” Moore said.

Trinity Dawson, president and chief executive officer of Trinity Dawson Integrated Utility Services, also praised the acquisition.

“The asset acquisition of Northwestern Cathodic aligns perfectly with the growth strategy that we have established for Stuart Steel Protection to expand the business geographically, grow our products offerings and grow our employee base,” Dawson said. “We are truly excited about the opportunity this move affords us to further improve the value proposition to build relationships with new customers in multiple industry subsectors.”

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SBA backed $35 billion in 2023 fiscal year lending The U.S. Small Business Administration backed nearly $35 billion in loans during the 2023 fiscal year, the federal agency announced.

The SBA provided another $670 million in disaster assistance for small businesses as well as $670 million in export-related trade financing.

“Starting and running a business Isabel Guzman takes tremendous grit and determination, but it also takes capital — something too many enterprising Americans have historically been unable to obtain equitably and affordably,” said SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman.

“In Fiscal Year 2023, the SBA transformed its lending and investment programs and expanded its capital partners to deliver nearly $50 billion in startup, growth and recovery capital as well as surety bonds, including more small business lending to people of color, women and veterans,” Guzman said. “As we build on our progress, the SBA will continue to prioritize reforms that will help level the playing field to further the small business boom.”

The SBA backed more than 57,330 loans worth a total of $27.5 billion through its 7(a) general guarantee program offering financing for equipment, land and working capital.

The SBA backed another 5,900 loans worth a total of $6.4 billion through its 504 program for acquiring buildings, land, equipment and other fixed assets.

The SBA doesn’t make direct loans through its 7(a) and 504 programs. By guaranteeing repayment of a portion of the loans, however, the agency enables lenders to extend financing to businesses that might not qualify under conventional terms.

In addition, $87 million in microloans were issued to more than 5,500 small businesses.

Small business investment companies provided $8 billion in funding through private debt and equity funds.

Along with the lending numbers, the SBA reported it provided a total of $670 million in disaster assistance to 5,200 small businesses during the 2023 fiscal year.

The SBA underwrote a total of $670 million in export-related trade financing through the export express and international trade term loans and export working capital portfolio.

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November 23-December 6, 2023

Sales taxes collections lag in October, up for 2023 Sales tax collections, a key measure of retail activity, declined year over year in Mesa County in October.

But collections so far in 2023 still outpace those in 2022.

Mesa County collected more than $4.2 million in sales taxes in October, a 1.4 percent drop compared to the same month last year. October collections reflect September sales.

Through the first 10 months of 2023, the county collected nearly $41 million. That’s an increase of seven-tenths of a percent over the same span in 2022.

Mesa County collected an additional $15.5 million in sales taxes over the first 10 months of 2023 it distributed to cities and towns in the county. That included $9 million to Grand Junction $2.8 million to Fruita, almost $2 million to Palisade and $848,000 each to Collbran and De Beque.

The county collected more than $2.4 million in taxes on retail sales in October, a drop of eight-tenths of a percent

MESA COUNTY TAX COLLECTIONS

Oct. 2022 Oct. 2023 Sales tax $4,307,370 $4,245,873 Use tax $386,188 $392,165 Total $4,693,558 $4,638,038

Change -1.4% 1.5% -1.2%

from the same month a year ago. Collections declined 2.6 percent for automobiles, 1.6 percent for home improvements and eight-tenths of a percent for general merchandise.

Sales tax collections topped $1.8 million in other industries in October, a drop of 2.2 percent. The biggest declines occurred in the construction and finance industries. Collections rose 34.5 percent in the oil and natural gas industry.

Through the first 10 months of 2023, Mesa County

collected more than $23.7 million in taxes on retail sales, down 2.3 percent from the same period in 2022.

Collections dropped 13 percent for home improvements and 5.4 percent for automobiles.

Sales tax collections totaled nearly $17.3 million for other industries, a 5.1 percent gain. Gains in the hotel and restaurant, oil and natural gas and wholesale industries more than offset losses in the construction, manufacturing and telecommunications industries.

Use tax collections — nearly all of it from automobiles purchased outside Mesa County, but used in the count — totaled $392,165 in October. That’s an increase of 1.5 percent from the same month last year. Through the first 10 months of 2023, use tax collections topped $3.7 million. That’s a gain of 1.8 percent over the same span in 2022.

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Hospital celebrates job training program for disabled adults

Community Hospital in Grand Junction celebrated the implementation of a program to provide more employment opportunities for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“We are steadfast in our commitment to support our community, and that includes fostering young talent,” said Chris Thomas, president and chief executive officer of Community Hospital.

Chris Thomas “It’s an honor to trailblaze this program on the Western Slope and help prepare students for future success.”

Project SEARCH offers internship experiences in various hospital departments.

Interns participate in two full semesters of rotations as well as onsite training in such topics as financial literacy, self-advocacy, team building, technology and workplace safety.

The program provides career development and internship opportunities to young adults ages 18 to 21 with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Participants work with a team that includes instructors as well as local and state agencies and their families. The goal is to secure employment for every participant.

Community Hospital is one of only nine sites for Project SEARCH in Colorado and the only site on the Western Slope.

Community Hospital collaborates with Mesa County School District 51, Mesa County Workforce Center and STRiVe as well as the Colorado Division of Vocational Rehabilitation.

“Project SEARCH has addressed a significant need in our community, and we are extremely proud of our team at Community Hospital for stepping up to the plate,” said Christina O’Dell, director of volunteer services for Community Hospital. “This year we have five interns participating in the program and anticipate doubling the program size in the 20242025 school year.”

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November 23-December 6, 2023

The Business Times

Now offering enhanced nationwide workers’ compensation insurance We go where Colorado business grows Pinnacol was born in Colorado, and we understand that many businesses rooted here expand and flourish across the country. We now offer enhanced nationwide workers’ comp coverage to meet the needs of Colorado’s businesses as they grow.

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SBA and USDA agree to increase efforts in rural areas Two federal agencies have agreed to collaborate more to create jobs and expand access to market opportunities in rural areas of the United States.

The U.S. Small Business Administration announced it’s strengthening its efforts with the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

“Rural small businesses strengthen local economies – creating jobs and serving communities,” said SBAAdministrator Isabel Casillas Guzman. “The SBA’s partnership with USDA will build upon the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to investing in underserved rural Americans and providing the needed resources to help them start and grow their businesses to advance our economy and global competitiveness.”

Through a memorandum of understanding, the SBA and USDA committed to increase investments in small and underserved

communities to promote employment and economic growth.

The agencies also committed to expand opportunities for rural technical assistance providers and small business owners. They will also provide resources to help rural businesses compete in domestic and international markets. As agencies plan to work together to: n Provide joint trainings, technical assistance and other opportunities for rural small business owners. n Help agricultural producers and small businesses export their products around the world. n Expand collaboration between the SBA resource partners network and USDA rural partners network. n Cross promote programs that support rural businesses and socially disadvantaged communities.

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November 23-December 6, 2023

Polis: Keep Interstate 70 express lanes open longer

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis has asked that mountain express lanes on Interstate Highway 70 remain open longer around the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.

“The public invested significant dollars to build these lanes. And as a matter of public trust, we need to make sure they are open when people need them,” Polis stated in the letter to the Colorado Transportation Investment Office, a division of the Colorado Department of Transportation.

“This means weekends, holiday weeks, peak tourism seasons and the like.

These extra lanes should be available as options to Coloradans and visitors who want to get out of traffic and choose to pay to use them, which also reduces traffic in the free lanes,” Polis stated.

The I-70 mountain express lanes are technically known as peak period shoulder lanes. They’re not as wide as regular highway lanes. Under a policy established in collaboration with the Federal Highway Administration and local partners, they can only be open a limited number of days per year. The rest of the time, they operate as shoulders for emergency breakdowns.

Under current policy, the eastbound lane can be open no more than 100 days a year and no more than 1,168 hours per year. The westbound lane is limited to being open no more than 125 days a year and no more than 965 hours per year.

Weather conditions, special events and other factors also determine whether the lanes are open or closed.

Vehicles with three or more axles — such as recreational vehicles, big trucks and vehicles pulling trailers — can’t use the I-70 mountain express lanes.

The CTIO plans to open the westbound I-70 mountain express lanes during Thanksgiving week from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

— and later if needed. Eastbound lanes will open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Nov. 22 to 26. For Christmas week, the mountain lanes will be open 24 hours a day on Dec. 23 to Jan. 1.

CTIO Director Piper Darlington said she was glad the office could accommodate the governor’s request. “Our holiday seasons are busy, and we want to be here as an option for travelers enjoying the beauty of the mountains at this special time of year.”

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November 23-December 6, 2023

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City of Grand Junction to install new entry signs

The City of Grand Junction plans to install three new entry signs.

Signs will be installed along Interstate Highway 70 east of Horizon Drive, I-70 west of the 22 Road interchange and at U.S. Highway 50 and 30 Road.

The new signs were designed to capture the spirit of the community, from local art to inspiring landscapes. They will be lit at night and the railroad tracks will glow with Greg Caton blue, symbolizing the confluence of the Colorado and Gunnison rivers.

“The design of the entry signs is a product of the community’s input during the 18-month branding process with

Visit Grand Junction. Residents asked that the brand continue to honor the past, recognize the importance of art, represent the confluence of our rivers and allow Grand Junction to be presented in a modern way that speaks to our open landscapes and the unique spirit of our community,” said City Manager Greg Caton. “The final design leveraged the unique elements of the area’s geography as well as the rich cultural history of our railroad.”

The city tested the design and shared those results and the design with the Grand Junction City Council. Bud Signs is constructing the signs as part of a $426,000 contract. The installation of signs at all three locations is scheduled to be complete by mid-December.

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November 23-December 6, 2023

Scout troop schedules holiday fund-raiser

A Grand Valley scout troop will operate a Christmas tree lot to raise money for activities throughout the year.

Boy Scouts of America and Girls Troop 353 will operate the lot at the Meadowlark Garden Center located at 2259 S. Broadway in Grand Junction.

“This fund-raiser is critical to supporting the activities we can do in the coming year,” said Troop 353 Scoutmaster Remi Galvan. “Every campout, every adventure, every merit badge rally where a scout works toward rank advancement has a cost associated with it. This fund-raiser helps defray costs — and in some cases, zero them out — so our troop can have amazing opportunities to further their learning and skills. I’m proud of how seriously the troop is taking their responsibility in this sale as they understand the direct impact it will have in their lives.”

The lot is scheduled to open at 8 a.m.

Nov. 24 and will coincide with a holiday craft fair at the Meadow Lark Garden Center. Lot hours will run from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Nov. 24 and weekends, 4 to 8 p.m.

Nov. 29 to Dec. 1 and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Dec. 2 and 3. Sales will continue until all the trees are sold.

The lot will feature trees ranging in size from 5-feet-tall to 10-feet-tall in a variety of species. Pre-decorated wreaths also will be available, as will homemade baked goods. Shoppers will receive complimentary hot chocolate, “We’re excited to host our own, independent tree lot this year for the first time,” said Annette Rosling, Girls Troop 353 scoutmaster. “This is a great opportunity for scouts to learn valuable life skills and join in on the holiday spirit. And being able to have this sale in as nice of a location as Meadowlark Garden Center in the Redlands is absolutely perfect.”

BSA Scout Troop 353, part of the Denver Area Council, is sponsored by the Redlands Lions Club, and meets in the Redlands every week. The troop started in March 2010. In 2021, the linked girls troop was formed, establishing the only girls troop in the Grand Junction area.

Troop 353 is scout-led and scoutrun, providing scouts with experience in leadership, planning and organization.

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November 23-December 6, 2023

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November 23-December 6, 2023

News, views Colorado and advice growers you can use to discuss labor issues Subscribe today

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An association of fruit and vegetable growers in Colorado has scheduled a conference to address labor issues, including an agricultural labor shortage.

The Colorado Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association scheduled its latest labor conference for Dec. 14 at the Pueblo Convention Center. Individual conference registration is $50 for CFVGA members and $70 for others and includes lunch.

The conference will open with an overview of recent and proposed changes to the H-2A program, including an overview of U.S. Labor Department of rules and calculation of the adverse effect wage rate, which sets hourly rates for H-2A and U.S. citizen employees.

Information also will be presented about a pilot program to encourage U.S. agriculture employers to hire temporary workers from northern Central America. A representative from the El Salvadorian ambassador’s office will answer questions about the logistics of hiring ag workers from El Salvador.

State representatives will provide information to assist ag employers in complying with recently passed laws, including the Ag Labor Rights & Responsibilities Act. The law requires Colorado employers to offer employees a retirement savings plan.

PinnacolAssurance will present a session on best practices to prevent musculoskeletal disorders in the ag workforce. The focus will be on prevention and an overall approach to total worker health.

Employers can receive up to 10 percent off workers’ compensation premiums by implementing injury prevention efforts.

Breakout sessions will offer information about equipment to allow farmers to mechanize and automate on a small to medium scale as well as software options to help farmers manage employee hours and payroll accounting.

The Colorado Department of Agriculture will present information about its new ag workforce services program.

The program combines all the resources available to ag employees, many of which are available only to those who work in Colorado agriculture.

The closing session will feature a panel of farmers discussing how they plan to stay profitable with overtime wages that kick in fully in 2024 for most produce growers.

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FOR YOUR INFORMATION To register for or obtain more information about the agricultural labor conference, visit https://coloradoproduce.org/ 23-labor-conference.

November 23-December 6, 2023

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November 23-December 6, 2023

News, views Applicants and advice sought for you can use geothermal grant effort Subscribe today

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Three webinars are set for Nov. 28 to offer information about a program offering grants to support the use of geothermal energy to provide electricity, heating and cooling.

The webinars will be available on the geothermal energy grant program website located at https://energyoffice.colorado.gov/ geothermal-energy-grant. The webinars will offer information about grants for single-structure, network and electricity generation projects.

The Colorado Energy Office launched the first round of applications for the program, which will provide funding to support the use of geothermal energy for electricity generation and space heating and cooling. A total of $5 million will be awarded during the first funding round with at least one additional funding round opening next fiscal year.

“The heat beneath our feet — geothermal energy — provides Colorado with the opportunity to lower energy costs by harnessing zero-emission energy to generate electricity and heat and cool homes, businesses and communities,” said Colorado Gov. Jared Polis. “Colorado continues to be the national leader for geothermal energy, and we look forward to seeing how these grants will continue that streak.”

Will Toor, executive director of the Colorado Energy Office, said Colorado geography offers some of the most robust geothermal energy potential in the country.

“Our geothermal program is an exciting opportunity to tap into this expansive resource to heat and cool our homes and increase access to reliable clean electricity.

Geothermal technology will reduce greenhouse gas emissions while saving Coloradans money on energy costs and creating good-paying jobs in Colorado communities.”

Both public and private entities are eligible to apply for funding. Eligible projects include single-structure and network geothermal installations as well as geothermal electricity generation.

The Colorado Energy Office will prioritize projects in disproportionately impacted, low-income and just transition communities. The office also has reserved 25 percent of the single-structure geothermal grants for projects in these communities.

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FOR YOUR INFORMATION For more information about the geothermal energy grant program, visit the website at https://energyoffice.colorado.gov/ geothermal-energy-grant.

November 23-December 6, 2023

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November 23-December 6, 2023

Sun

Continued from page 2 Junction to relocate the operation into a larger facility at a lower cost. At 7,000 square feet, the building at 740 Scarlet St. is more than three times larger and also offers more outdoor storage.

Delano says the Rural Jump Start Program also was an attraction. Skyhook Solar was accepted into the program, which offers a variety of incentives to participating companies, including credits on income and sales taxes, cash grants and workforce development opportunities.

Skyhook Solar will be eligible to receive up to $20,000 to defray startup costs as well as $2,500 for each new hire.

Participants must add a minimum of three net new jobs in high-paying, highly skilled fields. In Mesa County, businesses also must form partnerships with Colorado Mesa University through mentorship and internship opportunities as well as community involvement.

Skyhook Solar currently employs a total of 10 full- and part-time employees, four who work in Grand Junction. But Delano says he plans to create 38 new jobs in Mesa County over the next four years.

Staffing will increase along with commercial production, which he expects to begin early next year.

Skyhook Solar offers solar stations in various sizes for different uses, including electric vehicle and bicycle charging as well as electric generation for communication and internet access. The stations come with solar panels, batteries and a microcomputer. Several of the models are available in kit form, meaning they can be assembled on site.

Delano says Skyhook Solar provided stations to Navajo communities off the grid in Arizona as part of a project to evaluate how the stations would work in generating electricity for lighting and cell phones as well as provide internet access.

A heavy duty solar power trailer also is under development, he says, and potentially could be combined with hydrogen fuel cell technology to generate electricity.

Skyhook Solar also offer vaults for charging batteries for electric bikes.

Delano says the vaults prevent theft, but also can contain fires if they occur.

In addition, Skyhook Solar is a software company that provides software that integrates chargers and battery vaults and tracks electrical production, he says.

Given the growing use of electric vehicles and bicycles as well as the mobility and versatility of Skyhook Solar stations, Delano says he’s excited about the role the company can play in a transportation transition while also countering climate change.

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FOR YOUR INFORMATION For additional information about Skyhook Solar, log on to the website at www.skyhooksolar.com.

November 23-December 6, 2023

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November 23-December 6, 2023

Crews finish repair work on highway

Crews completed permanent repairs on Colorado Highway 133 between Paonia and Somerset in Western Colorado.

Work on the project was completed a week ahead of the anticipated completion date, and all traffic impacts on the project have ended.

A sinkhole and subsequent damage closed the highway from May 2 to June 19.

On June 19, crews opened a temporary bridge to traffic. Contractor R.L. Wadsworth began temporary bridge construction on May 23. The process for that type of prefabricated bridge usually requires four months, but crews expedited the installation.

In addition, a temporary commuter shuttle was provided during emergency repairs due to the high number of commuters that travel north daily to the Roaring Fork Valley.

“CDOT deployed significant innovation in both the temporary and permanent repairs to keep traffic flowing as we did emergency work,” said Shoshana Lew, executive director of the Colorado Department of Transportation.

Applications will be accepted through April 25 for federal disaster loans offering low-interest financing to small businesses affected by the closure.

More information is available from the Small Business Development Center at 145 S. Cascade Ave. in Montrose or by contacting Nancy Murphy at (970) 765-3130 or nancy@region10.net. Information and applications are available by logging on to https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov.

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Breeze

Continued from page 2 David Neeleman founded Breeze Airways. A Brazilian-American aviation entrepreneur, Neeleman previously founded Morris Air, WestJet, JetBlue Airways and Azul Brazilian Airlines.

Since it began service in May 2021, Breeze Airways has twice been recognized by readers of Travel + Leisure as one of the top five best U.S. airlines.

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

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

THE BUSINESS T IMES News The Business Times

November 23-December 6, 2023

Page 19

Trends Contributors Jobless rate holds steady Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac

INDICATORS AT A GLANCE

n Business filings s New business filings in Colorado, 43.902 in the third quarter, up 0.6 percent from the third quarter of 2022.

n Confidence

t Consumer Confidence Index 102.6 for October, down 1.7. t Leeds Business Confidence Index for Colorado, 43.6 for the fourth quarter, down 0.5. t National Federation of Independent Business Small Business Optimism Index 90.7 for October, down 0.1.

n Foreclosures

t Foreclosure filings in Mesa County, 14 in October, down from 20 in October 2022. t Foreclosure sales in Mesa County, 1 in October, down from 2 in October 2022.

n Indexes

t Conference Board Employment Trends Index, 114.16 for October, down 0.47. t Conference Board Leading Economic Index 103.9 for October, down 0.8%. t Institute for Supply Management Purchasing Managers Index for manufacturing, 46.7% for October, down 2.3%.

n Lodging

s Lodging tax collections in Grand Junction, $613,988 for the first quarter, up 6% from the first quarter of 2022.

n Real estate

t Real estate transactions in Mesa County, 270 in October, down 20.4% from October 2022. t Dollar volume of real estate transactions in Mesa County, $112 million in October, down 22.4% from October 2022.

n Sales

s Sales and use tax collections in Grand Junction, $43.3 million for the first half, up 2.3% from the first half of 2022. t Sales and use tax collections in Mesa County, $4.6 million for October, down 1.2% from October 2022.

n Unemployment n Mesa County — 3.2% for October, unchanged. s Colorado — 3.3% for October, up 0.1. s United States — 3.9% for October, up 0.1

Mesa County labor market expected to remain stable through 2023 Phil Castle

retailers were able to fill positions for the holiday shopping season, she said.

Looking ahead, Bullock said she Oct. Sept.

The monthly unemployment rate expects no big changes in the unemployment t Delta County 3.4 3.6 remained unchanged in Mesa County in rate over the next two months. The jobless s Garfield County 2.8 2.7 October with slight declines in payrolls, but rate historically spikes in January, however, n Mesa County 3.2 3.2 also the number of people looking for work. because of layoffs following the holidays t Montrose County 3.0 3.1 Although small and colder weather that affects construction t Rio Blanco County 2.7 2.8 changes could occur and other outdoor jobs. over the next two Over the longer-term, Bullock said months, Lindsay Bullock expects local labor she’s encouraged the relocation and expansion of businesses conditions to hold steady through the end of will bring more jobs to Mesa County. “There are exciting things the year. “I think we are staying pretty stable,” happening around here.” said Bullock, manager of the Mesa County The seasonally unadjusted jobless rate edged up a tenth of a Workforce Center in Grand Junction. point to 2.8 percent in Garfield County in October, but edged down The seasonally unadjusted unemployment in other neighboring Western Colorado counties — two-tenths to rate was unchanged at 3.2 percent in October 3.4 percent in Delta County and a tenth to 3 percent in Montrose Lindsay Bullock after the rate for September was revised County and 2.7 percent in Rio Blanco County. downward a tenth of a point, according to the latest estimates from The statewide seasonally adjusted jobless rate rose a tenth of the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment. At this time a point to 3.3 percent with declines in the number of employed and last year, the jobless rate was even lower at 2.9 percent. labor force and an increase in the ranks of the unemployed.

Between September and October, Mesa County payrolls The number of people counted among those unsuccessfully declined 243 to 75,345. But the number of people counted among looking for work increased 2,400 between September and October those unsuccessfully looking for work also decreased — 42 to 2,494. to 105,900. The number of those employed decreased 8,000 to The labor force, which includes the employed and unemployed, fell more than 3.1 million. The labor force decreased 5,600.

285 to 77,839.

Nonfarm payrolls increased 1,500 with gains in government Over the past year, payrolls edged up 237 even as the ranks of employment more than offsetting losses in the private sector. the unemployed grew 244. The labor force increased 481.

Over the past year, nonfarm payrolls increased 33,100 — a The number of job orders posted at the Mesa County gain of 1.1 percent — with the largest gains in the leisure and Workforce Center — one measure of local labor demand — hospitality, education and health services and professional and decreased between September and October. But at 1,002, orders business services sectors. Payrolls declined in the construction, remained above 1,000 for a third consecutive month. Through financial activities and information sectors as well as the trade, the first 10 months of 2023, 9,002 orders were posted. That’s an transportation and utilities sector. increase of more than 10 percent from the same span in 2022.

The average workweek for employees on private, nonfarm Bullock said labor demand remains strongest for jobs in the payrolls edged up a tenth of an hour to 34.1 hours. Average hourly health care sector, including positions in behavioral health care. earnings rose $1.23 to $36.31.

The labor market remains tight in some sectors, although F The Business Times

AREA JOBLESS RATES

Small Business Optimism Index edges down On the 50th anniversary of a measure of optimism among small business owners, the latest results offered little to celebrate Bill Dunkelberg, chief economist of the National Federation of Independent Business, called the outlook for the remainder of the year “gloomy.”

“The October data shows that small businesses are still recovering, and owners are not optimistic about better business Bill Dunkelberg conditions,” Dunkelberg said.

The NFIB reported its Small Business Optimism Index edged down a tenth of a point to 90.7 for October. The index has remained below what’s now a 50-year average for the index for 22 straight months.

The NFIB has compiled the index on a quarterly basis since 1973 and a monthly basis since 1986. 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 October, five of 10 components of the index advanced, two declined and three remained unchanged from September.

The proportion of NFIB members who responded to the survey upon which the October index was based who said they expect the economy to improve over the next six months held steady. But at a net negative 43 percent, the level remained at a recessionary level.

A net 24 percent of NFIB members said they plan to increase capital outlays over the next few months, also unchanged from a month ago. A net 6 percent said they consider now a good time to expand, up a point.

The share of members who said they expected increased sales rose three points. But at a net negative 10 percent, more anticipated decreased sales.

Expectations for earnings fell eight points to a net negative 32 percent. Among those reporting lower profits, 32 percent attributed the trend to weaker sales, 21 percent cited higher materials costs and 14 percent blamed higher labor costs.

A net 17 percent of members said they plan to increase staffing over the next three months, down a point from September.

At the same time, 43 percent reported hard-to-fill job openings, unchanged from a month ago. A net 24 percent of owners reported plans to increase compensation, up a point.

The proportion of members who said they plan to increase inventories edged up a point, but only to a net negative 0 percent.

The share of those who said current inventories were too low rose a point to a net negative 3 percent.

Asked to identify their single most important problem in operating their businesses, 23 percent cited quality of labor. That was followed closely by inflation at 22 percent.

A net 30 percent of members reported raising average selling prices, up a point from September.

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Page 20

The Business Times

November 23-December 6, 2023

Decline in leading index portends U.S. recession A monthly index forecasting economic conditions in the United States continues to decline, signaling slowing and what could be recession.

The Conference Board reported its Leading Economic Indicator fell eight-tenths of a percent to 103.9 in October. A separate measure of current conditions remained unchanged, while a measure of past Justyna Zabinskaconditions edged up.

La Monica Justyna Zabinska-La Monica, the senior manager of business cycle indicators at the Conference Board, said the Leading Economic Index signals recession in the near term. “The Conference Board expects elevated inflation, high interest rates and contracting

consumer spending — due to depleting pandemic saving and mandatory student loan repayments — to tip the U.S. economy into a very short recession.”

The Leading Economic Index fell 3.3 percent over the past six months with weaknesses among leading indicators more widespread than strengths.

Gross domestic product, the broad measure of goods and services produced in the country, rose at an annual rate of 4.9 percent during the third quarter. The Conference Board forecasts GDP to grow only eight-tenths of a percent in 2024.

For October, six of 10 indicators of the Leading Economic Index declined, including consumer expectations, interest rate spread, leading credit and new orders indexes and stock prices. An increase in averagely weekly initial claims for unemployment benefits also pulled down the index. Building permits and new orders for consumer goods

increased. Averagely weekly manufacturing hours and new orders for capital goods held steady.

The Coincident Economic Index remained unchanged at 110.8. The index increased nine-tenths of a percent over the past six months. For October, three of four indicators increased— nonfarm payrolls, personal income and sales.

Industrial produced decreased.

The Lagging Economic Index edged up a tenth of a percent to 118.6. The index increased four-tenths of a percent over the past three months. For October, three of seven components of the index advanced — commercial and industrial financing, cost of services and inventories.

Labor costs retreated, and an increase in the average duration of unemployment also pulled down the index.

The average prime rate and consumer credit held steady.

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Trends Contributors Opinion Better by association Business Briefs Business People Almanac

November 23-December 6, 2023

The Business Times

Page 21

COMING ATTRACTIONS

n A variety of events are planned at the Business Incubator Center in Grand Junction.

A small business holiday expo is set for 4 to 8 p.m. Nov. 30 at the center, 2591 Legacy Way. The free event will include shopping and a silent auction. Food will be provided to those who reserve tickets by Nov. 25. For tickets, log on to http://gjincubator.org/business-expo.

A bookkeeping bootcamp is set for 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 5. Participants will learn how to set up and track accounting records and what balance sheets, cash flow projections and income statements tell them about their operations. Admission is $75, which will include lunch.

A small business startup workshop is scheduled for 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 7.

The workshop will cover the business planning process, including financing, legal structures, licensing requirements and registration.

Admission is $55.

To register for or obtain more information about events, programs and services offered at the Business Incubator Center, call (970) 243-5242 or log on to the website at https://gjincubator.org. n The next Grand Valley BizMix networking event is scheduled for 5:30 to 7 p.m. Nov. 29 at the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel, 734 S. Seventh St. The event is open to members of the Grand Junction, Fruita, Palisade and Western Colorado Latino chambers of commerce as well as the Young Professionals Network of Mesa County.

Admission is $10. For more information, visit https://gjchamber.org. n The Grand Junction Area Chamber of commerce has scheduled its annual economic outlook luncheon for noon to 1:30 p.m. Dec. 13 at a location to be announced.

Richard Wobbekind, senior economist at the research division of the Leeds School of Business at the University of Colorado at Boulder, will review the 2024 economic and business outlook for the United States, Colorado and Mesa County. Admission is $25 for chamber members, $30 for others.

To register for or obtain more information about upcoming chamber events, log on to https://gjchamber.org or call 242-3214.

Membership in Western Colorado HR group offers benefits Staying informed, connected and supported is crucial for personal and professional development in human resources.

For those navigating the challenges and opportunities of the HR profession on the Western Slope, the Western Colorado Human Resource Association (WCHRA) offers educational opportunities, networking and other resources. Membership comes with many benefits. n Gateway to excellence: When you become a community partner with WCHRA, you unlock a treasure trove of advantages. Timely and informative legislative updates keep you ahead of changing employment laws. Monthly programs provide valuable insights to HR professionals.

Networking opportunities abound, allowing you to connect with other HR professionals, fostering collaboration Jenny and community.

Kelly n Services and resources galore: WCHRA prides itself on being more than just a network. It’s a comprehensive resource hub for HR professionals. Access to HR Certification Institute and Society for Human Resource Management study groups ensure you’re prepared for the challenges of certification exams. Moreover, the organization offers HRCI and SHRM recertification credits at monthly programs, conferences and legislative updates, allowing you to stay current in your field. n Monthly networking opportunities: Networking is essential to career success, and WCHRA ensures you have ample opportunities to connect with other professionals.

Monthly programs bring members together, fostering a supportive community where ideas, challenges and solutions are shared. These events provide a platform to expand your professional circle, opening doors to new opportunities and collaborations. n Scholarships and grants for certification: WCHRA remains committed to supporting members pursuing professional certifications. The association collaborates with the SHRM Foundation to offer scholarships and grants to obtain the SHRM certified professional and senior certified professional designations. These grants cover the costs of study materials and exams, eliminating financial barriers to professional advancement. n Elevate your HR career: For those seeking to excel in the HR profession on the Western Slope, WCHRA is

MY SUCCESS STORY

My journey with the Western Colorado Human Resource Association exemplifies the dedication of the organization to the success of its members.

I joined the WCHRA in 2020. I initially contemplated pursuing the Society of Human Resource Management certified professional designation, but faced financial constraints.

A chance mention of grant opportunities during a Zoom meeting caught my attention. I reached out to the WCHRA board. Connie Shulthies, director of certification for the WCHRA, guided me through the application process.

I not only secured the grant, but also found a supportive community within the study groups. These sessions, led by Connie and attended by fellow HR professionals, became more than just exam preparation.

They evolved into networking opportunities and shared learning experiences. Throughout the process, Connie and the WCHRA board offered unwavering encouragement.

Upon passing the SHRM-CP exam, I not only received a certification, but also a promotion at work, a network of professionals and a testament to the genuine care and support WCHRA provides. The organization went a step further in celebrating my achievement, highlighting the familial atmosphere it fosters.

more than an association. It’s a supportive community committed to your growth. From legislative updates to networking events, educational resources to grant opportunities, WCHRA offers a holistic approach to professional development. The opportunities and support WCHRA provide transform career aspirations into realities.

Jenny Kelly, a Society for Human Resource Management certified professional, serves as director of public relations and marketing for the Western Colorado Human Resource Association. For additional information about the organization, visit www.wchra.org.

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Page 22

The Business Times

November 23-December 6, 2023

Address personal conflicts and improve culture Personality conflicts hurt businesses by contributing to declines in collaboration, communication, morale and teamwork. Culture, efficiency, productivity, retention and team member satisfaction all suffer — along with business growth and profits.

The degree to which team members don’t communicate effectively and collaborate presents one of the greatest obstacles to business success. The effective, efficient and smooth flow of information is critical to consistently meet and exceed the wants and needs of customers, foresee challenges and take advantage of opportunities. It’s also essential to producing and delivering goods and services in a Marcus high-quality timely manner. When communication Straub is limited or even impossible due to personality conflicts, businesses weaken from within, and the effects are far-reaching.

It’s vital for business owners and managers to remain aware of negative behaviors that result from personality conflicts and address them early and effectively to keep collaboration, communication, morale and teamwork at consistently high levels.

Do you recognize any or all of these sabotaging behaviors in your business? n Arguing: The antithesis of effective collaboration, communication and teamwork, arguing doesn’t contribute to positive environments where team members perform at peak levels. Arguments and aggressive disagreements disrupt operations, send negativity rippling through the business and damage culture and morale. n Avoidance: Some people choose avoidance to cope with personality conflicts. While this might be a quieter and more

discreet way of dealing with the situation, it’s not effective in fostering the high levels of collaboration, communication and trust necessary in highly functional teams. n Resistance: When in resistance mode, individuals overtly resist the demands, desires, directions and suggestions of the person with whom they conflict, They could even demonstrate intentional spiteful actions intended to get back at or push the other person’s buttons.

This type of behavior isn’t part of a successful team. n Verbal sabotage: Gossip and snide or edgy comments are common when there are a personality conflicts between team members. This type of negativity damages the work environment. It has no place in a powerful business model.

If you recognize some or all of these behaviors in yourself or team members, it’s important to realize the tremendous drag they exert on the operations, resources and team as well as the profitability of your company. When top talent and customers are lost because of these conflicts, it’s already gone too far.

Given the overwhelming downside personality conflicts bring to a business, it is imperative to discover, address and overcome them as quickly as possible.

Many personality conflicts arise out of unconscious habits and tendencies that exist within each team member.

Sometimes these habits can be corrected by simply drawing attention to the damaging negative behaviors in which team members engage and making it clear they’re not acceptable in the workplace.

Team trainings based on accurate assessment results that help people understand themselves and others — their similarities and differences — and teach participants how to effectively communicate with various behavioral types are invaluable. With greater understanding and acceptance of each other and enhanced communication skills, personality conflicts are reduced.

Effective coaching is successful in helping people

become fully aware of the situation at hand and their roles in it. By working with a qualified professional, team members learn to take responsibility for their attitudes and corresponding behaviors and then correct them to create a more collaborative and positive work environment.

Still another option for reducing personality conflicts is to hire for not only skills, but also attitude and emotional intelligence. Through the use of highly accurate assessments that measure these attributes of the team member you bring into your business, personality conflicts can be diminished from the outset.

Sometimes, team members insist on keeping conflicts alive and refuse to set aside differences. In these instances, the wisest choice is to let them go. Anytime you reduce negativity and tension at work, you improve the satisfaction of the team and, in turn, customer service and profitability.

A well-designed team working together in an environment free of personality conflicts delivers the best possible experience to customers. We’re all unique and don’t always agree. When strategic investments help team members understand themselves and others, they accept differences and communication and teamwork become the norm.

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

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November 23-December 6, 2023

The Business Times

Page 23

Contracting opportunities abound for small firms Thinking about a New Year’s resolution for your business? Ever considered selling your products or services to the federal government?

The opportunities are vast and varied. As the U.S. Small Business Administration notes, the U.S. government is the world’s largest customer. It buys all types of products and services. Moreover, it’s required by law to provide opportunities for small businesses.

The two main categories of government contractors are prime Janet contractors and subcontractors.

As a prime contractor, your Arrowood company prepares proposals, submits required materials to the procuring government agency and manages the contract on your side. A subcontractor is a supporting member of your team, usually to meet a narrow need. The subcontractor often provides key contributions to your proposal.

Many government contracts involve teams rather than a single prime contractor. These teams often are structured as joint ventures and serve as the prime contractor. Government contracting personnel deal with the designated contact person for the team, not with individual team members.

A team might be optional. Or the government solicitation could require a team.

To be a small business prime contractor or subcontractor, your business must be legally qualified as a small business in accordance with the criteria found on the SBA website at www.sba.gov and System for Award Management at www.SAM.gov. You also must register your business as a government contractor with SAM. Once qualified and

The U.S. government is the world’s largest costumer. Moreoever, it’s required by law to provide opportunities to small businesses.

verified, you can search for prime and subcontracting opportunities.

Completing the requirements — including the so called “ORCA” form on SAM — can be tedious. But it’s not difficult. You can complete the paperwork yourself, although many companies offer assistance at a significant cost.

What types of businesses sell products and services to the government? Do you fit into any of the categories?

Part of filling out the ORCA form includes identifying your North American Industry Classification System codes and ensuring you meet the small business size and revenue restrictions for each category. Don’t worry. The numbers are high.

You’ll notice there are a number of special categories for small businesses. Each of these categories has certain contracting opportunities set aside just for them.

Here are some of the main small business or other set aside categories: n Small business: This is the simplest category for which you can qualify. As long as you meet the size and revenue limits for a given NAICS code, you’re probably in. n Woman-owned small business (WOSB): The federal government strives to award at least 5 percent of federal contracting dollars to women-owned small businesses each year. There are additional qualification and verification criteria for this category. In some cases, you may self-certify. But in other cases, there’s a qualification process with associated

paperwork. Within the WOSB category there’s a sub-category referred to as economically disadvantaged WOSB. There are additional criteria to obtain the EDWOSB qualification. n Service-disabled veteran-owned small business (SDVOSB): The federal government aims to award at least 3 percent of federal contracting dollars to SDVOSBs each year. Beginning in 2024, all SDVOSB set-aside contracts will require your status be vetted through the SBA and U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. n Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Zone program participants. If you own a qualified business in an SBA-designated HUBZone, you can take advantage of programs to encourage business opportunities and job growth. The HUBZone program fuels small business growth in historically underutilized business zones with a goal of awarding at least 3 percent of federal contract dollars to HUBZone-certified companies each year. n Minority owned business: There’s no special set aside at the federal level for minority owned businesses. But most states, including Colorado, and many cities offer programs.

The best place to learn more about small business categories and contracting opportunities is the SBA website.

In addition, Small Business Development Centers, including the center at the Business Incubator Center in Grand Junction, and federal Procurement Technical Assistance Centers offer help. For more information, log on to https://grandjunctionsbdc.org and https:coloradoptac.org.

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

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Page 24

The Business Times

November 23-December 6, 2023

Financial and HR professionals crucial to success Financial and human resources professionals can make or break any business. Salaries, especially executive salaries and benefits, cost organizations a lot of money.

But what about mistakes? How much do they cost?

I can’t imagine HR professionals who don’t want to scream when they hear commercials claiming that for a mere $99 a month, all your HR issues will be magically taken care of by someone who doesn’t even work with your people on a day-to-day basis.

It seems like professional employer organization (PEO) services are popping up all over. These services could manage some or all of your company’s Tim employee benefits, payroll and workers’ Haggerty compensation as well as recruiting and risk and safety management functions.

Providing these services is effected by the PEO service hiring your employees, thereby establishing a co-employment relationship. In this case, the PEO service is the employer of record for tax and certain insurance purposes.

In some cases, PEO services provide invaluable services, but are businesses going a little too far?

More importantly, do businesses so fixated on the near-sighted gains of wage and benefit reductions fail to miss the far-sighted necessity of really, truly understanding the effects of organizational culture?

Sure, smaller businesses probably can benefit from a PEO service. But is that really where the focus should be?

It amazes me when organizations become too myopic and lose sight of why there’s absenteeism, disgruntlement, turnover and a lack of true engagement.

More importantly, who in your organization really knows the breadth and depth of human relations? Who in your organization knows what’s required to motivate employees to the levels you need to remain a step ahead of competitors?

In running several facilities during my career, I came to appreciate two positions more than any other. If you don’t have a trustworthy financial controller, you’re seriously walking a high wire of fiscal accountability and responsibility — with customers; financial institutions; and, of course, the federal government.

If you don’t have a trustworthy HR professional within your organization — I mean someone who can and will tell you whether the ship needs to be turned around and how fast — you could be one insensitive remark away from hostile workplace litigation.

Financial and HR professionals are worth their weight in gold. Paying $99 a month isn’t financially or fiscally responsible. That only ensures some of the paperwork gets filed correctly.

Regardless of their wages and benefits, financial and

HR professionals are worth a lot more to your organization than you think.

I’ve written and spoken on topics like this for a lot of years. It still amazes me when organizations become too myopic and lose sight of why there’s absenteeism, disgruntlement, turnover and a lack of true engagement.

If you want, I’ll be happy to come to your business and provide a model. It will show the tremendous downside to revenue when you don’t have financial and HR professionals in your employ. The slow bleeding from your organization when engagement and empowerment aren’t fostered is no joke. It will more than offset that $99 a month you’re paying.

If you don’t have financial and HR professionals in your employ, go get them. If your financial and HR professionals aren’t any good, get some who are. These two positions, more than any others, will allow you to sleep at night.

Tim Haggerty and his wife, Bernadette, operate a consulting firm based in Grand Junction that helps clients transition from command and control to servant leadership and change the view of wages and benefits from expenses to investments. Haggerty brings to the venture more than 40 years of experience in operations management and a record of decreasing costs while increasing productivity and revenue. He also serves as president-elct of the Grand Junction Kiwanis Club.

Reach him at info@timothyhaggerty.com, (610) 737-0496 or www.timothyhaggerty.com.

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Take steps to avoid gains during the feasting season By one estimate, the average American gains between 5 pounds and 9 pounds during a holiday season that begins at Halloween and continues through the new year.

It’s not an easy time to keep the pounds off. Why? People eat more and exercise less, which results in weight gain, Moreover, people tend to put off efforts to loss weight until they make their New Year’s resolutions.

Why is it so hard to remain committed to a healthy eating and exercise plan? For one reason, the holidays are notorious for socializing, parties and events centered on food.

Paula Many of these food choices are high in Reece calories. For another reason, we all fall into the trap of busy schedules. Add in Christmas cards, decorating, events with children, shopping and traveling, and the stress of the holidays can leave you exhausted.

What’s the best way to survive the holiday season?

Plan. Here are a few tips to help:

Keep your goals in mind throughout the holiday season. The time you allow for yourself through exercise, nutrition, organization and sleep will make the busy holiday season more manageable.

n Take out a calendar early — like now. Mark off time for exercise each day. Schedule a little exercise between things on busy days — 10 minutes is better than nothing. Keep your goals in mind throughout the holiday season. The time you allow for yourself through exercise, nutrition, organization and sleep will make the busy holiday season more manageable. n Eat right. Buy healthy snacks. Plan for social parties and activities that involve food. Eat some healthy and filing foods before you go to a party. Attending an event hungry will set you up failure. n Exercise during the mornings of holidays to help

burn off some of those extra treats you eat later in the day.

Thanksgiving Day is a perfect example of getting some exercise early in the day before your feast. Crossroads Fitness North is open on Thanksgiving morning and offers a special group exercise lineup. n Don’t fall into the trap of I’ll start after the new year. This is really saying you’ll find an excuse no matter the time of the year. There will always be birthdays, special events, Super Bowl parties and Valentine’s Day. Keep in mind celebrations are really about family and friends — not food. Lifestyle changes in exercise and nutrition, even during the busy holiday season, provide the best long-lasting results. It’s about making healthy, productive changes that work for you over the long term.

It’s about your health forever.

Paula and Dale Reece own Crossroads Fitness Centers in Grand Junction with a downtown location at 225 N. Fifth St. and north location at 2768 Compass Drive.

For more information, call 242-8746 or visit the website located at www.crossroadsfitness.com.

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November 23-December 6, 2023

The Business Times

The importance of trends and support On the cusp of a new year, the world of business unfolds with both challenges and opportunities. The trends shaping the business landscape in 2024 will beckon us to adapt, innovate and embrace change. At the same time, fostering a resilient and sustainable economy also requires a collective commitment to supporting local small businesses, the backbone of our communities.

This symbiotic relationship between business trends and local support sets the stage for a dynamic and thriving economic ecosystem.

Drawn from the extensive work of bestselling author Bernard Marr, here are some insights and predictions for business trends for the upcoming year: n Generative AI everywhere: The era of artificial intelligence will reach new heights, enabling organizations to automate customer experiences and internal operations.

Dalida n Soft skills and the human touch: Even as Bollig automation takes center stage, the importance of such soft skills as communication, emotional intelligence and strategic thinking will become even more crucial. n Sustainable business practices: The green economy will gain momentum with businesses realizing the financial benefits of environmentally friendly solutions. n Personalization at scale: Meeting customer expectations through personalized experiences will become a key driver of success. n Data monetization: Companies will leverage data not just to streamline operations, but also monetize it, opening avenues for new business opportunities. n The customer experience revolution: Every interaction will become a cornerstone of business strategy, requiring a personalized and seamless customer experience. n Technology specialization: As technology further evolves, specialization will become more important. Such industries such as agri tech and health tech are on the precipice of groundbreaking transformation. n Resilience: Organizations will actively prepare for the unknown, building resilience against cyber threats, economic downturns and unforeseen disruptions.

Even as global trends affect business, local economies are nurtured by the vitality of small businesses often family owned and deeply rooted in the community. These small businesses stand as a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that fuels economic growth.

Supporting local businesses isn’t just a transaction, it’s an investment in the resilience and sustainability of the community. When we choose to shop locally, we contribute to the economic vibrancy of our neighborhoods. These businesses provide employment, contribute

Supporting local businesses isn’t just a transaction, it’s an investment in the resilience and sustainability of the community. When we choose to shop locally, we contribute to the economic vibrancy of our neighborhoods. These businesses provide employment, contribute to local tax revenue and create a distinct community identity.

What’s more, local businesses are nimble and responsive, adapting swiftly to meet the needs of their customers.

to local tax revenue and create a distinct community identity. What’s more, local businesses are nimble and responsive, adapting swiftly to meet the needs of their customers.

In the spirit of supporting local businesses, I’d like to extend an open invitation to attend the small business holiday expo scheduled for 4 to 8 p.m. Nov. 30 at the Business Incubator Center, 2591 Legacy Way in Grand Junction.

Join us in a celebration of the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives in our community and an evening of connection, exploration and festive cheer. Meet the faces behind local startups, discover unique gifts from small businesses and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit. The small business holiday expo also will celebrate the efforts of the Business Incubator Center to foster innovation and economic development.

Let’s come together to build a resilient and sustainable local economy, one small business at a time. To reserve your spot at this community celebration, visit gjincubator.org/business-expo.

Our community will find strength and vibrancy as businesses respond to trends and find local support. As we navigate change, let’s embrace the opportunities that come from supporting the businesses that make our community unique and robust.

Dalida Sassoon Bollig, chief executive officer of the Business Incubator Center in Grand Junciion, is an experienced strategist with demonstrated work in international affairs.

She brings to her duties experience in economic development, entrepreneurship, leadership, partnerships, public policy and trade. For additional information about programs and services offered at the center, call 243-5232 or visit https://gjincubator.org.

Reach Bollig by email at dbollig@gjincubator.org.

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Contributors Opinion Bold predictions for 2015 Grateful for second lives In a season of thanksgiving, A new year Business affords providing Briefs repeats second chances I’m delighted to give thanks more like not-so-bold a new opportunity Business People Almanac to meet local needs THE he BUSINESS usiness T T Times IMES

PAGE age 26 22

I’m so thankful.

I write that a lot. Mostly in the emails I send people. That’s because I’m usually thanking them for doing something I requested. Submitting a column or news release. Or agreeing to an interview. But that’s also because I really am.

Thankful, that is.

Not thatbrings print an journalism is allfor rainbows and unicorns.

A new year almost always opportunity a fresh start and tedious and nearly always demanding. No less renewed ambition toIt’s do sometimes things better. the deadlines never cease.

Never. I better admit products there are In business, thatdaunting, usually boils down to providing customers occasions — usually in the frantic final hours before paper and services faster and at lower cost than competitors. Part of the processthe must must be completed — I wonder why anyone would want include listening to customers to determine what they actually need and then to do this. of little the time, I actually meeting that need. After all,Most it does goodthough, to offerI’m theamazed latest and greatestget if paidwhat to do this. To write copy and design pages. Even more nobody actually wants you’re selling. amazing,that to meet thetomost interesting peopleJunction and tellArea their Just like the businesses belong the group, the Grand remarkable stories.

Chamber of Commerce invariably starts out the new year with a reassessment of Soitinprovides this season thanksgiving, I’m thankful for the services and resources and of how well they match with members the opportunity to give thanks.

To my boss, advertisers, needs.

Jeff Franklin, the new chairman of the chamber board of directors, Phil Castle contributing columnists and especially the readers who all personifies this approach in describing what he considers his role for the coming makedetermine it possibletheir for needs me to and do what do. those needs. It’s a year: listen to members, then Imeet Actually, I’m a big fan of gratitude the year round.

Of acknowledging jobs role with which Franklin is familiar as market president of Bank of Colorado. well The doneprocess and butts to adomore them.

It’s not like I invented the the proverbial willbusted take on structured approach in what chamber gratitude wheel though. of Savvy business owners managers know the power plans as the resumption a program aptly calledand Listening to Business.

Under of the saying thank you. It’s simple: people appreciate appreciated.

It makes them program, business owners participate in in-depthbeing interviews to identify barriers to want to and reciprocate. growth other problems they encounter.

Cindy McGovern, executive officer of Orange Leaf The new year offersfounder a goodand timechief to join the proverbial club.

Consulting, wrote theorbook on this related topics in offering her advice As an advertiser reader, whatand do other you need from the Business Times? aboutWhile motivating employees and customers.

McGovern saidthe she’s sent thank-you business journals traditionally gather and report relevant news to notes to communication every client, employee and vendor with which she’s everespecially done business. readers, isn’t necessarily a one-way street.

That’s true as IWeb wrote a column a couple in which mentioned McGovern’s sites and e-mail makeof theyears dialogue moreI convenient than ever. work. She sent Good me a thank-you note. publications don’t exist in a vacuum. They respond to the needs of I recently newsletter McGovern advertisers andreceived readers. aThey providefrom what’s needed. in which she extended the concept of gratitude So what do you even need?further to include rejection and what we don’t get.

Whether that’s a dreamnews job orcoverage promotion big sale or getting called out for Is there additional thatorwould help—keep you informed about poor performance.

Those situations afford opportunities, McGovern contends, local business developments? Are there features that would be interesting or for people apply it toyour the next useful? to Is learn there something advice thatand would make jobs asituation. little easier?

IIt’s was arrogant enoughtoafter graduated fromneed. college tolimited believetime I should equally important ask Iwhat you don’t With to work at acontent big daily ThatinI which was too to would waste my at some produce andnewspaper. limited space to talented publish it, timeefforts and space be little that’s exactly were I ended up after so many fruitless job betterweekly. devotedOf to course, something else? interviews editors were rightneeded? to be skeptical.

What’swith good?

Whatwho isn’t?

What’s What isn’t?

But myknow. work Send at a series smallComment town papers taught about Let us us an of e-mail. online on me the more Business Times Web journalism than I thought possible — in places whereanjournalism has the site at www.thebusinesstimes.com.

Youand could even write old-fashioned letter to biggest effects.

And it eventually led toboth the bigger things thought I the editor if you’d like.

Your feedback, positiveand andbetter negative, is Ivalued and deserved.

Including the Business Times. will be carefully considered.

In a season of thanksgiving — and the only rest of year for that matter — I’m Good publications are the result of not thethe efforts of their staffs, but also thankful for so manyinvolving opportunities to giveand thanks.

For all the good stuff to be collaborative efforts advertisers readers. sure.Like But also somegood of thebusiness, bad. any other we want to listen to our customers, find out what they need and then meet those needs.

Phil It’s Castle is editor the Business Reach him at phil@thebusinesstimes.com a new year. of Please help us Times. to do so. or 424-5133. ✦ F

THE BUSINESS TIMES

609 North Ave., Suite 2, Grand Junction, CO 81501 TEL (970) 424-5133 • FAX (970) 424-5134

Publisher/Owner: Craig R. Hall

Editor: Phil Castle

Reach advertising at: publisher@thebusinesstimes.com Reach the editor at: phil@thebusinesstimes.com.

Subscribe or submit press releases online at www.thebusinesstimes.com The Grand Valley Business Times, a subsidiary of Hall Media Group LLC, is published twice monthly and distributed throughout Grand Junction, Fruita and Palisade. Advertising rates and deadlines are available upon request. Opinions expressed in this publication are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, editor, staff or advertisers.

Copyright © 2015 — AllCopyright rights reserved. © 2023 — All rights reserved.

Every oftenofFacebook isn’t actually It’s thatsotime year when Satan’s custom-designed, most-successful resolutions and prognostications abound. playground someapplied rays ofto light shine My favoriteand saying New Year’s through.

While light in my life resides in resolutions is inthe saying they’re basically a my faith, occasionally sends message bunch of He promises to break theafirst week through others. if I’m paying of January.

AndOccasionally, while I won’t predict a attention, evilpretty whichmuch is Facebook whole lot,the I can accurately presents Histhings message His perfect timing. nail a few thatinwithout question this will For make thecolumn, news. You will see these are the timing pretty, well,involves predictable: our national day ofone: ■ Prediction Thanksgiving and There will be some asort celebration ofevent, of weather completing 62 trips natural disaster or around sun on heinousthe occurrence this orbsomeone I call home where will — until I finallyand go say be interviewed home.

It also comes the following: “I’ve from “other” and never an seen anything not book and Craig Hall like the thatgood in my savior I strive lifetime.”

It’s astoifspend this Craig Hall time in is and with daily. This deep thought person a required on my wall comesnews from the philosopher attendee at every Confucius: “We While have two lives. Themost reporting event.

I understand second when can we realize only people’sbegins perspective indeed we be limited have by, orone.” contained within, their own personal If you know my much familytoand experiences, it is too askitsto history, it all begins withperspective the heart. If you consult some historical before know know Yes, I should have started sayingme, suchyou a thing? this response can sooner only I’d beenBut paying apply toifsome events. whenattention. it comes At least with wakeup call, I’m notpretty in to weather andmy natural disasters, I’m the ofsimply beatinghistory myselfrepeating up anymore. surehabit this is itself.

At least in my trying to of Same as that’s it has the for goal millions and millions maintain gratitude.

Andthe if you really know years. More important, planet made it! me, know that’s somespecies. heavy lifting.

Whatyou didn’t were certain How’s Youperspective? probably know I lost identical that for twin■ brothers fromtwo: heart attacks five to a Prediction When it comes weeks apart in 2000.that Too manybetween days go crime or something occurs by when the I don’t of them.

On the humans, otherthink required attendee at all days do, I’m sad theyis didn’t get their news Ireporting events the person who opportunities forwe’re second But I live says this: “They justlives. the nicest with theand thankfulness theyI both lived people, in no way did see something their best, first lifeExactly. before they passed. like this coming.”

No one does I also oldest brother, who’s mosthave of themy time when it comes to had his share of heart and vascularPeople troubles. neighbors and acquaintances. should By God’s grace he’sgoes living round be surprised at what onout from timetwo to poking and tweaking authority through time in their neighborhoods, towns and sarcasm andthey irony — something else are with people know because people which runsfor in my family. good. And the times that they shouldn’t But more situation resulting be shocked — to likemy with politicians, repeat from my heart attack and offenders and terrorists — subsequent where’s the bypass and valve surgery. interview that says,replacement “This doesn’t surprise For that, going to focus on my mom me in theI’m least.” and dad.

I’m so glad and blessed they ■ Prediction three: Something goodtook their secondeconomically, lives to heart.and Because will happen the my daughters forever governmentand willI will take be credit for it.grateful The most and thankful foristhe had recent example gasspecial prices, time wherewepeople with them. ask me why I won’t credit the president for Mom seemed understand things low gas prices.

My to answer is simple: right away after her bypass Government never makes thesurgery. price of Even if there were she didn’t, something go areas downwhere and simply takes credit her subsequent stents and hospital for good news. Gas pricing is subjectvisits to solidified herfactors. passionNow for life many global thereand areher children andanswers grandchildren, I’m beyond government to addressing some of sure. always doing something them Mom to keepwas prices stable for Americans, for includinghas taking time in and but family, our government none the of them giving the only love things to parent herinyoungest place. The it has place in the

November J23-D ecember 6, 2015 2023 ANUARY 15-28,

child a second I wouldn’t long run alwaystime hurt around. consumers.

Another have it through my divorce the fact ismade that unemployment reaches aand certain last plus all And the love leveldecade based on thewithout economy. whileMom the gave to me, might the talks full advice isand the government brag theofnumber low, love showered on my it’s more than likely thedaughters. government did Every to Sunday — plus all too many something cause that number being low other dinner at Harry and — anddays not — in ameant good way.

Conversely, when Marilynn’s whether had the the girlspeople or not. business picks up, it’sI because Christmas for finding the pickle who need toEve buywas widgets who were not ornament to seebecause if Mayathe or economy Evin got was to buying widgets open the first gift.

Easter (or Sunday was a contracting due to natural unnatural, scavenger for candy anddecided gifts and governmenthunt caused) reasons, we every mealsome was widgets. made from and better buy Thescratch government the hadrecipes nothingintoMom’s do withhead. this. To this day, I make Mom’s pierogi onkeeping Christmas ■ Prediction four: In withEve. While always falling short, take a stab things the government does, I predict the or two at other and guard her to government willrecipes manipulate the numbers macaroni salad the recipe with my life — as make the claim economy is getting does kids’ of mom. culinary bettermy because howMy hardgreatest it is working to accomplishment came Americans.” when mom said help all of us “working Nowmy pea than High you soup mightwas say,better “Craig, youhers. always saypraise this from matriarch. aboutthe President Obama because you don’t I think whenright I seeinMom again, she’s like him.”

You’re a sense.

I don’t going to refer this column andofsay her know the man,tobut what I know himinand special way, “Why think stuck his thinking, I don’tdo likeyou it or himIone iota. around Craiglet?” it wasI didn’t a nickname.

Before you go off, Yes, however, like As forBush Dad,and I think his second life President his bailouts, stimulus began Mom’sthe did.free Mymarket original and hiswhen abandoning to save thoughts about Dad content the free market.

And for I don’t knowwere him how seemed old at the same either.heWhat the government does,ages and the I’m Butthe deeper onlynow thingexperiencing. it can do, is hurt economy. thought me just wrong that Unless itshowed does nothing or how put criminals in was.

Dad was simply from different jail instead of partnering witha them, nothing generation.

Honestly, myhelp. career in sales the government does will Always look and pales in terms the physicalsays at it retail this way, whatever theofgovernment requirements the jobs hadofduring it is doing, whatever theDad name the law it fatherhood. final career in teaching is passing, orHis whatever the name or goal of took more out ofit him mentallyto inthe taking the bureaucracy is presenting care of high school kids.opposite In termstoof work, people, expect the polar occur.

Dad Ihas it allwhat overI’m me.saying is that guess But it’s after Mom’s surgery, Dad perhaps time to getheart out of our own created a second lifeplenty beyond mom’s perspective.

There’s ofhis, history or my imagination. see, where I was books and historicalYou research out there to going talk about my 3 miles begin to understand thatwalking all of this has five or six before. days a week something happened And it—will again, I never thought I’d do — I can’t brag on whether the topic is people or government. walking Mall and changing my The the bestMesa recommendation is to find lifestyle to lose 150that pounds to Google be around some books or try whole for hisThere’s wife, children grandchildren. thing. a lot ofand information on the And he was.The Helping the Greataround Depression. truth ismeit with wasn’t paper began take its toll got in even auntil goodsepsis one until thetogovernment his last few years also and constantly doting on involved.

There’s plenty of research my mom and daughters — always on the medieval warm period whenasking the about whatever theywith planetand wasgiving much them warmer than today needed. goes double forwarmer me. Dad’s a whole That lot less people (and well last words me here were,at“I’m home?” before mantowas all). going And yep, and “You’re gonnakilling be OK?” people have been other surprised Thankfully, because mywritten. parents’ people since history was of first second livessome and their faith will in the Maybe research help stop almighty, answer to both was a be all of thesemy trends.

Otherwise, we’ll resolute, “Yes.” I hope up to like themit in saying we’ve never seenI live anything both with And second our lives. notlife. in a good way.

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

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

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November 23-December 6, 2023

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Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac The Business Times

n GRAND VALLEY POWER SEEKS APPLICANTS FOR SUMMER TOUR AND LEADERSHIP CAMP

Grand Valley Power based in Grand Junction will accept applications through Jan. 8 from high school students interested in participating in two summer events.

Grand Valley Power will sponsor high school juniors and seniors to attend either the youth tour set for June 17 to 23 in Washington, D.C. or cooperative youth leadership camp set for July 13 to 18 at the Glen Eden Resort near Steamboat Springs.

Students attending the youth tour will learn about cooperatives, talk with elected officials and visit monuments and memorials.

More than 1,800 students from across the country are expected to participate.

Students attending the leadership camp will learn about issues affecting the electric industry, raft and tour a coal mine. A total of nearly 100 students from four states are expected to participate.

Applications are open to high school students who’ll be at least 16 years old at the time of the tour and camp and get their electricity from Grand Valley Power. Along with applications, students must submit a 500-word essay.

For applications or more information, visit the website at www.gvp.org/youth-leadership-programs. n MESA COUNTY LIBRARIES JOINS IN EFFORT TO HELP PEOPLE IN NEED DURING THE HOLIDAYS Mesa County Libraries has once again joined with Grand Valley Catholic Outreach to help families in need during the holidays.

Through Dec. 4, “giving trees” decorated with gift requests from underprivileged Mesa County residents of all ages will be set up at the central library in Grand Junction as well as branch libraries in Clifton, Fruita, Orchard Mesa and Palisade.

Participants select tags describing gifts to purchase then provide library staff with their contact information, purchase the gifts and bring them back, unwrapped, to the library with the tag attached before Dec. 4. All beneficiaries of giving tree gifts are Catholic Outreach clients and Mesa County residents.

For more information, call 243-4442 or visit the website at www.mesacountylibraries.org. n FREDDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD & STEAKBURGERS LAUNCHES HOLIDAY GIFT CARD PROMOTION

Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburdgers has launched a holiday promotion. Customers who purchase a $25 gift card will receive a $5 bonus card good for purchases Jan. 1 to Feb. 15, 2024.

In the Grand Valley, Freddy’s restaurants are located at 737 Horizon Drive and 2489 U.S. Highway 6 & 50 in Grand Junction and 3232 Interstate Highway 70 Business Loop in Clifton.

For more information, visit https://freddys.com.

November 23-December 6, 2023

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NOTEWORTHY

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

The Bray Cares Foundation awarded grants to six local organizations to address housing-related needs in Mesa County.

Bray & Co. Real Estate based in Grand Junction announced the latest grant recipients as part of a quarterly breakfast meeting.

Those recipients are: n Foster Alumni Mentors to provide rental and deposit assistance for youth aging out of foster. care. n Habitat for Humanity of Mesa County for doors for homes for affordable home ownership. n Homeward Bound of the Grand Valley to support emergency shelter for individuals experiencing homelessness. n Joseph Center to support its general assistance program. n Karis for Bonnie’s House improvements. n Mesa County Retired Senior Volunteer Program to support the Handyman Project to help seniors and disabled people remain in their homes.

Bray & Co. Real Estate established the Bray Cares Foundation and partners with the Western Colorado Community Foundation to raise funds and make grants to nonprofit organizations that address housing-related needs by providing emergency seleter, rent assistance and services to seniors and the disabled.

Since its inception in 2019, the foundation has raised more than $320,000. All Bray agents and employees donate to the foundation. Bray & Co. pays administrative costs so all donations go to meet needs.

Bray & Co. provides a range of services related to residential and commercial real estate, property management and construction. The company serves Mesa County as well as Delta, Garfield and Montose Counties. For more information, call 242-3647 or log on to the website at www.brayandco.com.

n MESA FITNESS, GRAND VALLEY REHABILITATION COLLABORATE TO ADD TO LOCAL SERVICES Mesa Fitness has joined with Grand Valley Rehabilitation Services to provide additional services promoting rehabilitation, health and fitness.

“This partnership of wellness is one that will help us grow a stronger, healthier community,” said Cole Christensen, owner of Mesa Fitness.

Under a collaboration intended to bridge the gap between injury or surgery and sustained health and fitness, Grand Valley Rehabilitation will offer physical therapy services at Mesa Fitness.

Grand Valley Rehabilitation will have access to Mesa Fitness facilities to add additional cardio, functional and weight training to individual rehabilitation plans.

Part of Community Hospital, Grand Valley Rehabilitation Services provides occupational, physical and speech therapy at five locations across the Grand Valley.

For more information about Grand Valley Rehabilitation Services, visit https://yourcommunityhospital.com/Therapy.cfm.

For more about Mesa Fitness, visit www.mesafitnessco.com. n MONTROSE KOA JOURNEY CAMPGROUND RECEIVES PRESIDENT’S AWARD FOR QUALITY The Montrose Black Canyon National Park KOA Journey Campground has once again received the Kampgrounds of America President’s Award for quality operations and customer service.

The President’s Award is presented to campgrounds that meet quality standards and receive high score on customer surveys.

“Our campground owners and thousands of dedicated employees are essential to providing the superior level of outdoor hospitality KOA guests expect, and it’s an honor to recognize this hard work,” said Toby O’Rourke, president and chief executive officer of Kampgrounds of America.

KOA operates a total of more than 500 franchised and owned campgrounds across the United States and Canada.

The Montrose Black Canyon National Park KOA Journey Campground is located at 200 N. Cedar St. For reservations or additional information, log on to the website located at https://koa.com/campgrounds/montrose-black-canyon-natl-park.

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Real estate firms honors best-selling agents Heiden Homes Realty in Grand Junction announced it’s top-performing agents for October.

Kathy Tomkins posted the most closed transactions, while Toni Heiden had the highest dollar volume in sales for the month.

Tomkins brings to her duties experience in construction and mobile home sales.

The owner of Heiden Homes, Heiden has worked 45 years in the Western Colorado real estate market.

Heiden Homes operates offices at 735 Rood Ave. For additional information, including properties for sale or rent, call 245-7777 or visit www.heidenhomes.com.

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Kathy Tomkins

Toni Heiden

November 23-December 6, 2023

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Opinion Business Briefs Briefs Business Business People People Almanac Business Almanac The Business Times

SHARE YOUR NEWS

The Business Times welcomes submissions for free publication in Business People and the Almanac calendar of events. Submissions may be emailed to phil@thebusinesstimes.com or submitted online at the website located at www.thebusinesstimes.com.

Rebekah Scarrow S. Cruickshank

Tyler Harris

n REALTORS GROUP PRESENTS AWARDS AND INSTALLS BOARD OF DIRECTORS Rebekah Scarrow received the Realtor of the year award from the Grand Junction Area Real Estate Association.

Scarrow also was among the recipients of distinguished service awards along with Stewart Cruickshank and Tyler Harris.

Cruickshank also received the Realtor in action award for his Amy Ashcraft involvement in GJARA as well as other charities and organizations.

Amy Ashcraft won the rookie of the year award.

Laurel Cole, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Mesa County, received the community service award.

GJARA presented the awards as part of its installation banquet.

The new leadership team includes Thomas Bankcozy as president. Laurel Cole Merrite Wyatt also joined the board of directors. Ron Sechrist remains treasurer and Katie Davis a director.

Cruickshank continues to serve as chairman of the member services and public relations committee. n ALPINE BANK NAMES MANAGER OF ITS BANKING OFFICE IN DELTA Brison Crow has been promoted to manager of Alpine Bank Delta.

Crow joined the officer training program at Alpine Bank in 2022.

He’s an alumnus of Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction.

Jamie Saff, senior vice president of Alpine Bank, hailed the promotion.

“We are excited for Brison’s new Brison Crow leadership role at Alpine Bank in Delta, and we are confident that he is the right person to take excellent care of our customers in this community.”

Crow said he’s excited about his new position. “I am honored to take on this role and look forward to great opportunities and partnerships in Delta County.”

A $6.5 billion, employee-owned organization headquartered in Glenwood Springs, Alpine Bank operates banking offices serving 170,000 customers across Colorado.

For more information, visit www.alpinebank.com.

n LAND TRUST CONSERVATION SPECIALIST APPOINTED TO EASEMENT COMMISSION Nick Jacobson, a conservation specialist with the Colorado West Land Trust, has been appointed to the Conservation Easement Oversight Commission.

The eight-member commission oversees conservation easements for which tax credits are claimed, determining if easement donations meet state and federal criteria. Nick Jacobson The commission also advises the Division of Conservation and Colorado Department of Revenue on matters related to conservation easements.

Based in Montrose, Jacobson works with landowners and others to complete conservation projects across a six-county service area in Western Colorado. He holds a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies and geography from Macalester College and also has completed work and research in Africa and South America.

Based in Grand Junction, the Colorado West Land Trust has preserved a total of more than 131,000 acres in Mesa County and five other Western Slope counties. For more information, visit the website at https://cowestlandtrust.org. n STAFFING CONSULTANT RECEIVES EXPRESS UNIVERSITY CERTIFICATION Jenny Hunter, a staffing consultant with Express Employment Professionals in Grand Junction and Montrose, has received Express University certification.

Hunter joined the staffing office in July and works with the light industrial and skilled trades sectors.

The Express University certification program offers classroom conferences, online Jenny Hunter instruction, courses and workshops that cover various aspects of the staffing business.

“Part of our culture at Express is a lifelong commitment to learning,” said Nina Anderson, owner of the Express Employment Professional offices in Grand Junction and Montrose. “Our staff members are consistently asking for more opportunities to learn because it improves our ability to serve our clients and associates.”

The Express Employment Professionals office in Grand Junction is located at 725 Pitkin Ave. For more information, visit https://www.expresspros.com/grandjunctionco or call 242-4500.

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November 23-December 6, 2023

Nov. 29 n Grand Valley BizMix networking event for members of the Grand Junction, Fruita, Palisade and Western Colorado Latino chambers of commerce and Young Professionals Network, 5:30 to 7 p.m., Daily Sentinel, 734 S Seventh St., Grand Junction. Admission $10. 242-3214 or https://gjchamber.org Nov. 30 n Free small business holiday expo, 4 to 8 p.m., Business Incubator Center, 2591 Legacy Way, Grand Junction. Food provided for those who make reservations by Nov. 25. 243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org/business-expo.

Dec. 4 n Free monthly maker meetup, 6 to 8 p.m., GJmakerspace at the Business Incubator Center.

243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org Dec. 5 n Bookkeeping bootcamp, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Business Incubator Center. Admission $75, which includes lunch.https://gjincubator.org or 243-5242 Dec. 6 n Palisade Chamber of Commerce lunch and learn presentation on maintaining momentum in the winter, noon to 1 p.m., Mesa County Libraries Palisade branch, 119 W. Third St. Chamber members attend at no charge, others pay $5. www.palisadecoc.com or 464-7458 Upcoming n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business networking luncheon, noon to 1 p.m.

Dec. 7, Hotel Maverick, 840 Kennedy Ave, Grand Junction. Admission $25 for chamber members, $35 for others. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 n Business startup workshop, 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 7, Business Incubator Center. Admission $55.

243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce economic outlook luncheon, noon to 1:30 p.m.

Dec. 11, location to be announced. Admission $25 for chamber members, $30 for others. 242-3214 or https://gjchamber.org n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce Networking at Noon, noon to 1 p.m. Dec. 13, Rockslide Brew Pub, 401 Main St. Admission $20 for chamber members, $25 for others. 242-3214 or https://gjchamber.org n Palisade Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 13, Orchard View River, 3926 U.S. Highway 6 & 24, Palisade.

Advance tickets $5 for chamber members and $8 for others. Admission at the door $6 for members, $10 for others. www.palisadecoc.com or 464-7458 n Free coffee club networking event, 9 to 10 a.m.

Dec. 15, FWorks, 325 E. Aspen Ave., Fruita. https://gjincubator.org or https://fruitachamber.org n Presentation on cash flow budgeting for small business startups, noon to 1 p.m. Dec. 19, Business Incubator Center. 243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org F

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