The Business Times Volume 30 Issue 23

THE BUSINESS T IMES News DECEMBER 7-20, 2023

VOLUME 30, ISSUE 23

Trends Looking 2 ahead Contributors Opinion 4 Business Briefs 5 Business People Almanac

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In this issue

n Competitive move An advisor contends the deal that would combine Kroger and Albertsons constitutes a response to market trends.

n Forecast: Mesa County poised to remain on a growth trajectory in 2024.

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n Happy holidays?

Although holiday spending is forecast to reach record levels, one survey also reflects a somewhat cautious mood.

n The rec effect

Outdoor recreation added nearly $13.9 billion to the Colorado economy in 2022, according to a federal report.

n Real deals rise

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Mesa County real estate sales rose in November for the first year-over-year increase in nearly two years.

n Winter wonder

25

Employees working in a winter wonderland raise questions about legal issues. Here are some answers.

n Raving fans

26

The best way for firms to create raving fans of their customers is to turn team members into fans.

n Departments Almanac Business Briefs Business People Contributors News Opinion Trends

34 32 34 25-29 2-22 30-31 23-24

It doesn’t require a pair of binoculars to foresee business and economic conditions in Mesa County in 2024. An annual report prepared by the research division of the Leeds School of Business at the University of Colorado at Boulder affords a comprehensive look at what the year ahead could bring.

Business Times illustration 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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December 7-20, 2023

Grocer deal Trends as a Looking Contributors seen competitive necessity ahead Opinion Business Briefs M Business People Almanac No binoculars afford a look into the future, but an annual business and economic outlook report offers a forecast of what awaits in 2024.

Advisor: Kroger plan to aquire Albertsons a response to trends

2024 outlook: Mesa County poised to remain on a growth trajectory

esa County is poised to continue on what’s described as a controlled growth trajectory in 2024 as a more diversified economy ensures resilience and sustainability.

More businesses and investments in commercial real estate buoy the outlook, as do further opportunities for development. Tourism and outdoor recreation continue to drive economic growth even as the tech industry gains recognition. Home sales have slowed as a result of higher interest rates on mortgages, but construction of multi-family housing has accelerated.

“As Mesa County continues a For more on controlled growth trajectory, the industry the outlook base continues to diversify, which is essential for ensuring economic resilience for Colorado, and sustainability,” according to the see page 22. summary for Mesa County in the latest Colorado Business Economic Outlook report.

The research division of the Leeds School of Business at the University of Colorado at Boulder compiles the annual report with sections for geographic regions and industry sectors. Business, industry and government officials contribute to the report.

The section about Mesa County included contributions from Steve Jozefcyzk, deputy director of the Grand Junction Economic Partnership, and Nathan Perry, an economics professor at Colorado Mesa University. The section also included information from Bray & Co. Real Estate, the Grand Junction Regional Airport, Mesa County Workforce Center and Visit Grand Junction.

Statewide, employment is expected to increase 41,900 in 2024, a 1.4 percent gain over 2023. Gains are forecast for seven industry sectors, with losses in four sectors. Inflation, high interest rates, labor shortages and less consumer spending all could pose challenges.

In Mesa County, the labor market remains strong overall, but has lagged behind national gains, the outlook report stated.

The seasonally unadjusted unemployment rate was unchanged in October at 3.2 percent, but was lower at 2.9 percent a year ago.

See LOOKING page 22

Phil Castle

The Business Times

KEY INDICATORS AT A GLANCE Here are some of the latest economic indicators for Mesa County along with the changes from the same periods in 2022: s Seasonally unadjusted unemployment rate for October: 3.2%, up three-tenths of a point. s Nonfarm payrolls: 75,345 in October 2023, up 0.31%. s Average annual wages: $55,848 in the third quarter of 2023, up 10.2%. t Year-to-date real estate transactions through November: 3,369, down 24.3%. t Year-to-date real estate sales dollar volume through November: $1.45 billion, down 25.1%. t Year-to-date property foreclosure filings through November: 225, down 0.4%. t Year-to-date property foreclosure sales through November: 42, down 4.5%. s Year-to-date sales tax collections through October: $40.7 million, up 0.7%.

Grand Junction chamber schedules outlook luncheon for Dec. 11

Rich Wobbekind

The Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce has scheduled its annual economic outlook luncheon for Dec. 11.

The luncheon is set for noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Colorado Mesa University Center south ballroom.

Rich Wobbekind, faculty director of the research division at the Leeds School of Business at the University of Colorado, will lead a presentation on the outlook for the Mesa County, Colorado and United States economies for 2024.

The research division complies an annual

business and economic outlook report in partnership with businesses, government entities and nonprofit organizations. The report analyzes 11 industry sectors as well as six geographic regions around Colorado, including Mesa County.

Admission to the Grand Junction luncheon is $25 for chamber members, $30 for others.

For reservations or more information about the luncheon, call (970) 242-3214 or log on to the website at https://gjchamber.org.

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STORIES AND ILLUSTRATION BY PHIL CASTLE

Scott Moses contends a proposed acquisition that would combine Kroger and Albertsons constitutes a response to non-traditional grocers that have wrested market share away from more conventional supermarkets.

“This is one way supermarket grocers can get strong and compete,” said Moses, a partner and head of the grocery, pharmacy and restaurants advisory group at Solomon Partners based in New Scott Moses York.

Moses was hired to advise on the proposed acquisition by Kroger Co. of Albertsons, a $24.6 billion deal that would combine the two largest supermarket chains into a 4,500-store operation.

Kroger Co. recently certified to the Federal Trade Commission the deal substantially complies with antitrust rules.

That triggered a 30-day timeline in which the FTC must accept the deal or sue to block it, although a final decision could be delayed by continued negotiations.

Critics have questioned whether the deal would result in higher prices, and plans to close stories would limit access to food in some communities. Moreover, they’ve raised concerns about the effects of the deal on farmers, small businesses and other suppliers that rely on a competitive market.

Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold joined with her counterparts in six other states to submit a letter to the chairwoman of the FTC opposing the deal.

Kroger countered the acquisition would enhance competition, lowering prices for customers, improving access to fresh food and securing the long-term future of union jobs.

In a Zoom call with Colorado reporters, Moses said traditional supermarket grocers like Kroger and Albertsons are “under siege” from national non-traditional grocers, including mass merchants, warehouse clubs and the proliferation of discount stores.

Moses said the grocery landscape has changed. While 10 of the top 15 U.S. grocers were supermarket grocers 20 years ago, they’re only five of the top 15 today.

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

Advertising rates and deadlines are available upon request. Opinions expressed in this publication are those of the writers and don’t necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, editor or advertisers.

Copyright © 2023 — All rights reserved

The Business Times

December 7-20, 2023

Happy holidays for retailers?

Record spending forecast, but survey results also reflect some caution

Matthew Shay

Dana Peterson

Jack Kleinhenz

While holiday spending is expected to reach record levels, one survey of consumers also reflects what was described as a somewhat cautious mood.

The National Retail Federation forecast holiday spending in November and December to grow to between $957.3 billion and $966.6 billion. If realized, that range would constitute a 3 percent to 4 percent gain over $929.5 billion in holiday spending in 2022.

“It’s not surprising to see holiday sales growth returning to pre-pandemic levels,” said Matthew Shay, president and chief executive officer of the National Retail Federation. “Overall household finances remain in goo shape and will continue to support the consumer’s ability to spend.”

The Conference Board reported, however, the results of its holiday spending survey portend a slight decrease in overall spending on holiday-related items — less on non-gift items, yet more on gifts.

“Food — a common non-gift holiday item — is expected to cost more this year compared to last, which may have lowered consumers’ desire to purchase nongift items,” said Dana Peterson, chief economist of the Conference Board. “However, consumers still seem to want to engage in some holiday cheer as reflected in a rebound in gift spending after last year’s slump.”

The National Retail Federation projected online shopping and other non-store sales to increase between 7 percent and 9 percent to between $232.7 billion and $278.8 billion.

“Consumers remain in the driver’s seat and are resilient despite headwinds of inflation, higher gas prices, stringent credit conditions and elevated interest rates,”

said Jack Kleinhenz, chief economist of the NRF. “We expect spending to continue through the end of the year on a range of terms and experiences, but at a slower pace.

Solid job and wage growth will be contributing factors this holiday season, and consumers will be looking for deals and discounts to stretch their dollars.”

Kleinhenz said the holiday sales forecast also takes into account spending for services. “Service spending growth is strong and is growing faster than goods spending.

The amount of spending on services is back in line with pre-pandemic trends.”

To meet holiday demand, the NRF projected retailers will hire between 345,000 and 450,000 seasonal workers, in line with the 391,000 seasonal hires in 2022.

The Conference Board reports the results of its holiday spending survey indicates U.S. consumers plan to spend an average of $985 on holiday-related items in 2023. That’s down about 2 percent from 2022.

Consumers said they expect to spend an average of $654 on holiday gifts, up 6.7 percent from last year. They intend to spend an average of $330 on non-gift holiday items, down 16 percent from last year.

Peterson said consumers under 45 years old plan to spend less on gifts this year, while those 45 and older expect to spend more. Slightly more consumers intend to purchase the majority of gifts online.

Among gift categories, consumers said they’re more likely to buy beauty products, gift cards, home decor and toys, Peterson said. They also said they’re more likely to pay for travel and vacations. Books and DVDs are less popular gifts compared to 2022.

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BEA report quantifies outdoor rec effects to Colorado economy Outdoor rec accounted for nearly $13.9 billion and almost 130,000 jobs, agency estimates Outdoor recreation contributed nearly $13.9 billion to the Colorado economy and employed almost 130,000 people in 2022, according to the latest results of an annual reported compiled by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.

“We are grateful to the BEA for gathering this data showing clearly that the outdoor industry is a critical economic driver and source of jobs for both Colorado and the country,” said Conor Hall, director of the Colorado Outdoor Conor Hall Recreation Industry Office. “We must continue to champion destination stewardship, more equitable access to the outdoors, a healthy workforce and continued sustainable growth of the industry.”

The BEA prepares an annual statistical Jessica Turner snapshot of the outdoor recreation industry based on national and state data.

In Colorado, outdoor rec accounted for 2.8 percent of gross domestic product, the broad measure of goods and services produced in the state, and 4.3 percent of employment.

The economic contribution of outdoor recreation rose almost 20 percent from 2021, while employment increased 9 percent.

The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, a coalition of outdoor recreation associations and organizations, compiled a state-by-state comparison using the BEA report.

Colorado ranked 12th for the economic contribution of outdoor recreation. The state ranked sixth for the proportional growth of that contribution between 2021 and 2022 and 21st for the gain between 2019 and 2022.

Nationwide, outdoor recreation

accounted for $1.1 trillion in economic output and nearly 5 million jobs in 2022.

Jessica Turner, president of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, hailed the latest numbers. “The state of the outdoor recreation economy is strong, and sustained investment in outdoor recreation and our shared public lands and waters pays dividends for our local and national economies and quality of life,” Turner said. “We are thrilled to once again see the data reflect what we hear everyday, that outdoor recreation is not a nice to have, but a necessity for healthy people, places and economies.”

The BEA separated outdoor recreation into three general categories: n Such conventional activities as bicycling, boating, hiking and hunting. n Other activities, including gardening and outdoor concerts. n Supporting activities, such as construction, government expenditures, tourism and travel.

For 2022, conventional activities accounted for 34.2 percent of the value added by outdoor recreation, while other activities accounted for 19.8 percent.

Supporting activities accounted for the remaining 46 percent of value added.

Activities associated with recreational vehicles was the largest conventional activity nationwide at $35.5 billion in value added. Boating and fishing came in second at $32.4 million, followed by motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles at $11.5 billion.

Snow activities contributed $7 billion nationwide. Colorado was the largest state contributor at $1.4 billion.

Retail trades was the largest industry contributor to outdoor recreation nationwide in 2022, accounting for $153.6 billion.

Accommodations, arts, entertainment, food services and recreated accounted for a total of $144.5 billion. Manufacturing contributed $77.6 billion.

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Rec contributes $484 million in Mesa County

Outdoor recreation contributes more than $484 million a year to the Mesa County economy and accounts for nearly 10,000 jobs, according to the results of a study conducted by researchers at Colorado Mesa University in 2022.

Moreover, outdoor recreation businesses are diverse and include retail, manufacturing and other components.

Nathan Perry, an associate professor of economics at CMU, joined with Tim Casey, a professor of political science and head of the Natural Resource Center at CMU, and Johnny Snyder, a professor of computer information systems, to conduct the study.

While the study only estimated the economic effects of outdoor recreation, Perry said the results also reflected the role of recreation in accounting for more than 7 percent of the value of goods and services produced in Mesa County and one in 10 jobs. “It’s such a big deal here.”

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December 7-20, 2023

Wireless provider deploys technology from Grand Junction-based company

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A nationwide wireless service provider has enabled its smartphones and tables with technology from a Grand Junctionbased company to better manage streaming content.

FreeMo announced it’s enabling it affordable connectivity program devices with content shaping solutions from Sky Peak Technologies that will enable subscribers to view up to 10 times more streaming video content from YouTube, NetFlix and other sources.

The CORA Mobile Edge and CORA Shaping Libraries technology also will enable FreeMo to save on such resources such as Cat Coughrandata delivery, energy and bandwidth while McIntosh delivering more streaming content.

“Our deployment with FreeMo is very exciting as it aligns with Sky Peak Technologies’ mission to empower small, rural and independent wireless communications service providers to increase their competitive advantage, profitability and subscriber satisfaction so that all people, regardless of geography or socio-economic status, can access data-intensive content, making our Leigh Hunt world more connected and educated,” said Cat Coughran-McIntosh, chief executive officer and co-founder of Sky Peak Technologies.

“It is impressive that FreeMo has the foresight to take this early adoption step, and we are looking forward to working with more ACP providers to further our mission across the country,” Coughran-McIntosh said.

FreeMo offers nationwide wireless service subsidized by the national affordable connectivity program and various state

programs and includes free tablets and free monthly data plans delivered by FreeMo. “The FreeMo goal is to bring more value, service and connectivity to the communities we serve,” said Leigh Hunt, chief executive officer of FreeMo. “By licensing CSL technology, we install a FreeMo mobile edge onto our smartphones and tablets, giving us the ability to deliver even more value and enhanced service to our subscribers.”

Sky Peak Technologies offers an on-device smart content shaping solution that provides mobile network operators and mobile virtual network operators a way to manage streaming video on mobile devices.

Coughran-McIntosh said demand has increased worldwide for data-intensive content.

By one estimate, 80 percent of data volume on the cellular network is from streaming video content. Moreover, there are 8.3 billion smart devices, each capable of connecting to dataintensive content at the push of a button.

That’s a growing burden to mobile virtual network operators, particularly regional and rural operators, she said.

“Our flagship product CORA Mobile Edge elegantly shapes data-intensive streaming video and right sizes it for the device requesting it,” Coughran-McIntosh said. “CORA ME smart shaping technology delivers a great user experience with considerably less data, thus reducing the bandwidth and energy resources needed to keep pace with this voracious consumption of streaming video.”

With an up to 88 percent reduction in resources needed to deliver data-intensive content to mobile devices, CORA ME enables operators to provide subscribers more streaming video content while at the same time freeing up the network for other operations and creating a more profitable environment, she said.

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Junior Service League awards $30,000 in grants The Junior Service League of Grand Junction awarded a total of $30,000 in grants to 11 nonprofit organizations in Mesa County to support their work in family and children services, children’s arts and recreation opportunities.

Junior Service League members awarded the grants at a reception for the recipients.

“Awarding these grants is the culmination of the hard work of our members and the joy of seeing the impact of their efforts on the betterment of our community,” said Mary Roos, the community giving chair of Junior Service League. “Nothing is more special.”

The Junior Service League awarded grants to: Clifton Christian Church Food Bank, Colorado Canyons Association, Colorado Discover Ability, Homeward Bound of the Grand Valley, Kids Aid, Mesa County School District 51 Career Center Health Occupations Students of America, Orchard Mesa Baptist Church Food Bank, Reverent Rhythms, Riverside Education Centers,

Steppin’ It Up and the Wingate Elementary School Parent Teacher Organization.

Cameron Cunningham, founder and director of Reverent Rhythms, said the organization will use the grant to provide additional scholarships to students involved in efforts to improve their well-being through performing arts.

“The benefits are like compound interest,” Cunningham said. “There are emotional, spiritual and physical benefits of performing arts, and we appreciate the Junior Service League for their support.”

Since its inception, the Junior Service League has awarded more than $1.1 million in grants to local nonprofits. Tickets are on sale now for the group’s largest fund-raising effort, Viva El Vino.

The event is scheduled for April 27 at the Wine Country Inn in Palisade.

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December 7-20, 2023

Get on your bikes and ride: Effort to teach Fruita students

A program will help students at Shelledy Elementary School in Fruita learn to ride bicycles.

The HDR Foundation joined with All Kids Bike to bring the kindergarten physical education program to Shelledy Elementary.

“Teaching students to ride a bike is a rate of passage,” said Cami Kidd, principal at the school. “It provides opportunities to explore the world around us, exercise and be adventurous. By providing the opportunity to our students to learn how to ride a bike, we provide them with a lifelong skill that will make a difference in their lives.”

The effort includes teacher training and certification, a fleet of 24 bicycles, pedal conversion kits, helmets, two rolling storage racks and other resources.

The program is expected to involve 65 kindergarten students a year. With a lifespan of 7 to 10 years for the equipment, up to 650 students will benefit from the initiative over the next decade.

The local effort is part of a larger initiative in which the HDR Foundation donated $380,000 to All Kids Bike for efforts at 40 schools across the United States during the 2023-2024 school year.

“Learning to ride a bike at such an early age is not only thrilling, but can help establish a foundation for a healthy lifestyle,” said Brad Martin, Colorado area manager of HDR. “As a 100 percent employee-owned company, HDR is dedicated to this cause. It’s close to home and to our hearts.”

Lisa Weyer, executive director of the Strider Education Foundation, the nonprofit behind All Kids Bike, said she was grateful to HDR for a total of more than $500,000 in funding over the past two school years.

“The ability to ride a bike not only fosters physical and mental wellbeing, but also instills confidence and enhances classroom focus,” Weyer said. “Teaching bike riding at the kindergarten level focuses on enhancing gross motor skills, balance and coordination. By introducing bike riding as an essential skill in public schools, we, in partnership with HDR, are equipping children with knowledge that extends far beyond the playground, providing them with a positive foundation for a lifelong skill.”

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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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December 7-20, 2023

News, views Applicants and advice sought for you can use ag intern

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program

Applications will be accepted through Jan. 5 from agricultural businesses in Colorado interested in hiring paid interns in 2024.

Kate Greenberg, the commissioner of agriculture, said ag producers have a wealth of knowledge and experience to share with those looking to get into the industry.

“Through paid, Kate Greenberg hands-on internships and stipends to the businesses, we’re helping to create opportunities to develop the next generation of farmers and ranchers and support their entry into future agricultural careers,” Greenberg said.

The Colorado Department of Agriculture administers the Agricultural Workforce Development Program, which provides financial incentives to Colorado farms, ranches and other agricultural businesses to hire interns and provide them with the hands-on training needed to begin a career in agriculture.

Qualified businesses may be reimbursed for up to 50 percent of the cost of hiring an intern, up to $5,000, in exchange for providing educational experiences.

Since the program was established in 2018, the CDA has funded a total of more than 130 internships at farms, ranches and agricultural businesses across the state — 36 in 2023 alone.

To apply, businesses must complete an online application found on the CDA website at ag.colorado.gov/awdp. A team of reviewers will evaluate applications.

Award notices will be sent out in February.

Once businesses receiving funding are selected, the CDA will publish a form for interns seeking an internships, so interested candidates can connect with businesses. Internship applications will be open in early spring.

A Zoom meeting offering information about the internship program as well as a quesiton and answer session is scheduled for 2 p.m. Dec. 11.

The meeting is free to attend, but participants must register to receive the Zoom link. Those unable to join the meeting can find a recording on the Agricultural Workforce Development Program page of the CDA website after Dec. 11.

More information about the Agricultural Workforce Development Program also is available by contacting Joanne Hernandez, a CDA grants specialist, at joanne.hernandez@state.co.us.

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Cattle association plans conference for Jan. 15 and 16

Registration is under way for the Colorado Cattlemen’s Association mid-winter conference.

The conference is set for Jan. 15 and 16 at the Denver Marriott West Hotel in Golden.

The conference will begin Jan. 15 with board meetings of the CCA as well as the Colorado Cattlemen’s Agricultural Land Trust and Colorado CattleWomen. Steering committee meetings will follow, as will as president’s reception.

The conference will continue Jan. 16 with more steering committee meetings, a business meeting and award presentations.

The CCA has scheduled an afternoon visit to the Colorado Capitol. State legislatives have been invited to attend a reception and banquet planned for that evening.

To register or obtain more information, visit the website located at www.coloradocattle.org/ mid-winter-conference or telpehone the CCA office at (303) 431-6422.

A discounted room block at the Denver Marriott West Hotel is available for conference attendees.

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The Business Times

December 7-20, 2023

Tri-State plans Craig plant closure A Colorado-based power cooperative plans to close a coal-fired power plant in northwest Colorado earlier than initially expected.

Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association also announced plans to close a unit of a coal-fired plant in Arizona as well as procure additional energy through renewable sources and battery storage.

A Westminster-based cooperative with 45 members that serves four states, Tri-State filed an electric resource plan with the Colorado Public Utilities Commission, including a preferred plan funded through a federal Duane Highley program. The plan depends on PUC approval as well as funding through the U.S. Department of Agriculture Empowering Rural America (New ERA) program.

“Our ambitious plan, with federal funding, can accelerate clean energy investment and significant greenhouse gas emissions reductions at a lower cost than alternative scenarios, all while exceeding both industry-standard and heightened extreme weather reliability criteria,” Duane Highley, chief executive officer of Tri-State, said in a news release. “We are clearly demonstrating how Tri-State remains the most reliable, affordable and responsible power supplier for our members both now and well into the future.”

Tri-State announced plans to close Unit 3 of the Craig Station Power Plan by Jan. 1, 2028 rather than the end of 2029.

The closure of Unit 1 by Dec. 31, 2025 and Unit 2 by Sept.

30, 2028 were previously announced. Tri-State owns Unit 3. Xcel Energy, Platte River Power Authority, Salt River Project and Pacific Tri-State jointly own Units 1 and 2.

Costs have increased even as demand is likely to decrease as three member systems withdraw from the cooperative in 2024 and 2025, Tri-State said in the news release.

“The benefits of federal funding would help us to address the stranded costs of retiring coal units, ensuring lower emissions while protecting rural consumers from increased costs,” Highley

said. “With our local, state and federal partners, we will continue to work with our employees and the northwest Colorado community to support their transition.”

Tri-State also announced plans to retire Unit 3 of the Springerville Station in Arizona by Sept. 15, 2031 due to what the cooperative described as economic reasons.

At the same time, Tri-State announced plans to invest in the largest acquisition in the history of the cooperative in renewable and battery storage between 2026 and 2031. That includes 500 megawatts of wind power, 240 megawatts of solar power and 310 megawatts of battery storage.

Tri-State previously announced it will add 595 megawatts of solar power in 2024 and 2025.

“Our rapid transition increases clean energy used by our members to 50 percent in 2025 and 70 percent by 2030, benefiting members with lower and stable priced renewable energy resources,” Highley said. “Through 2043, our plan reduces costs to our members by more than $1.8 billion compared to business as usual.”

Tri-State seeks up to $970 million in grants and loans through the New ERA Program to help rural communities transition to renewable energy sources.

“We appreciate Tri-State’s commitment to decarbonization and are excited to see the benefits of more low-cost clean energy that the New ERA program can deliver for electric cooperative members and rural communities across our state,” said Will Toor, executive director of the Colorado Energy Office.

Stacy Tellinghuisen, deputy director of policy development at Western Resource Advocates, said the proposal builds on commitments from Tri-State to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

“We commend Tri-State for developing a plan that ensures all its member cooperatives benefit from the transition to clean energy,” Tellinghuisen said. “ We encourage other utilities to tap into these critical federal funds to replace their expensive, polluting plants with cleaner resources.”

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Grand opening scheduled for dispensary Native Roots Cannabis Co. has scheduled a grand opening for its new Grand Junction dispensary.

The event, which will include a ribboncutting ceremony, is set for 11:30 a.m.

Dec. 12 at the outlet, 683 Horizon Drive, No. 110.

Executives with Native Roots as well as representatives from the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce are scheduled to participate in the grand opening.

The new Grand Junction location is one of 21 across Colorado for Native Roots Cannabis Co., a vertically integrated medical and adult-use cannabis operator and one of the largest independent dispensary retailers

in the state. The company serves thousands of consumers daily and has the largest number of registered patient members in the state.

Native Roots offers an assortment of products and what it bills as a welcoming environment for cannabis beginners and experts alike. The company has won national recognition for sustainable business practices, retail design, products and employment practices.

For more information about Native Roots, visit https://nativerootscannabis.com.

Follow Native Roots on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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December 7-20, 2023

Ruling offers flexibility for wolf reintroduction

A federal agency has finalized a designation for an experimental population of gray wolves in Colorado to provide more flexibility in efforts to reintroduce wolves to the state.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) finalized the designation under the Endangered Species Act. The ruling is scheduled to become effective Dec. 8.

The Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission intends to reintroduce the gray wolf in a portion of the species’ historical range in Colorado by Dec. 31 in response to a ballot measure approved by Colorado voters in 2020.

Colorado Parks and Wildlife requested the designation of an experimental population under the Endangered Species Act to provide the state with increased flexibility to manage wolves, The final experimental population rule designates management flexibility to the state for reintroduced gray wolves in Colorado. This management flexibility can help address potential conflicts between wolves and humans and wolves and domestic animals while contributing to the conservation of the species.

The state management plan provides for differing management tools based on achieving recovery targets. As the state achieves these recovery targets, tools available to the public under state laws and regulations could be more restrictive than what’s allowable under the federal rule.

The USFWS announcement followed collaboration among partners in Colorado at the local, state, federal and tribal levels.

In September, the USFWS announced the draft record of decision and environmental impact statement. The final ruling concluded the USFWS will implement proposed alternative 1 from the scoping and draft process to finalize an experimental population designation.

Additional information, documents and answers to frequently asked questions about the experimental population designation can be found at https://www.fws. gov/coloradowolf.

More information from CPW regarding the reintroduction of gray wolves can be found at https://cpw.state.co.us/learn/Pages/CON-Wolf-Management.aspx.

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City distributing 2024 calendars

The City of Grand Junction has begun mailing its 2024 calendar and annual report to residents.

The calendar also available to pick up in the utilities office at Grand Junction City Hall at 250 N. Fifth St. This calendar features photographs of the natural beauty of the Grand Valley as well as a review of 2023 projects and accomplishments, a directory of city services, a list of boards and commissions and letter from Grand Junction Mayor Anna Stout.

“Each year we receive calls starting in the fall from city residents asking when this highly anticipated calendar will be available,” Stout said. “Not only do we get to appreciate the work of local photographers year ‘round, but the city calendar serves as an important source of information regarding our accomplishments, ways to participate in our municipal government, holiday closures and contacts for city services.”

“Once again, regional photographers outdid themselves with their submissions of amazing panoramas of the beauty that is Grand Junction’s backyard. We are so grateful for their generosity and how skillfully they have captured the scenes presented each month of the year,” Stout said, More than 500 photographs were submitted for consideration in the latest calendar, but only 15 were selected to appear.

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December 7-20, 2023

Gingerbread houses assembled for the Palisade Olde Fashioned Christmas celebration are on display for public viewing at Community Hospital at 2351 G Road in Grand Junction.

(Photos courtesy Community Hospital)

December 7-20, 2023

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December 7-20, 2023

CDOT studies additional train service to West Slope

The Colorado Department of Transportation has issued a request for information about what train vehicles might be available for proposed passenger service between Denver and Craig.

The request isn’t a solicitation for bids or meant to result in a contract or order for equipment, but rather an effort to understand what’s available.

“Let’s get rolling to provide more transportation options for Coloradans and visitors who want to explore, live and work in our world-class mountain communities and local economies. I look forward to the results to help make convenient mountain rail a reality,” said Colorado Gov. Jared Polis.

Shoshana Lew, executive director of CDOT, said the request is a first step to understanding what technology could meet the needs of mountain conditions.

“We’re interested in factors like cost, safety technology, reliability and the use of energy efficiency options and clean power.”

Mountain rail service became a more likely possibility in recent months because of decreased coal train traffic on Union Pacific lines and an opportunity to host more passenger trains. UP lines serve the California Zephyr and Winter Park ski trains, but there’s capacity for service from Denver to Steamboat Springs, Hayden and Craig, In addition, Congress plans to earmark $66 billion for passenger rail service through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Because the Denver-to-Craig service would only require minimal track and safety improvements, CDOT expects the mountain rail project would constitute a candidate for federal funding.

The Colorado Transportation Commission approved $5 million in state funding for CDOT to study the mountain rail route.

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Parade of Lights planned for Fruita

A holiday tradition is scheduled to return to Fruita on Dec. 9 with the Parade of Lights.

The Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce has joined with Grand Valley Power to present the parade, set for 5:30 to 7 p.m. along Aspen Avenue.

The parade will feature lighting displays, decorated floats and performances. The theme for this year’s event will be “’Twas the Nightmare Before Christmas.”

The Fruita chamber has encouraged businesses, organizations and residents to participate.

More information is available on the Fruita chamber website located at https://fruitachamber.org.

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December 7-20, 2023

Grocer

Continued from page 2 Kroger ranked second among U.S. grocers and Albertsons third in 2003 in terms of sales behind only Walmart, Moses said.

Today, Kroger, Albertsons and Walmart still occupy three of the top five positions, but the ranks of the top 15 also includes Costco at third, Amazon at fifth, Target at sixth and Dollar General at ninth.

Between 2003 and 2023, Walmart increased its share of the grocery market by 12 percent, Amazon by 5 percent and Costco by 4 percent, Moses said. During the same period, Kroger’s market share dropped 1 percent and Albertsons’ share fell 7 percent.

National discount groceries account for about $685 billion in grocery sales, while supermarket grocers account for about $410 billion, Moses said. Walmart accounts for $314 billion in sales, nearly three times that of Kroger and almost five times that of Albertsons, he said.

Meanwhile, Dollar General has grown from 6,113 stores in 2003 to almost 20,000 stores in 2023 and is projected to expand further to 34,000 stores, he said.

Aldi, the third largest global grocer, has enlarged its U.S. operation with 2,800 stores and $121 billion in sales.

What was 20 years ago a 50-50 split between union and non-union jobs at U.S. grocers is now 15 percent union and 85 percent non-union, Moses said.

Online grocery sales increased by a factor of four between 2018 and 2022 with Amazon, Walmart, Target and Costco becoming the most dominant outlets, he said. Amazon and Walmart are positioned to handle the logistics with a total of nearly 630 fulfillment centers across the United States.

While gross margins increased over the past 20 years for Amazon, Walmart and Dollar General, they declined 2 percent for Albertsons and 5 percent for Kroger, he said.

The acquisition by Kroger of Albertsons offers a way to respond to market trends as well as benefit consumers and employees, Moses said.

Kroger remains committed to no store closures or job losses as well as increasing purchasing from local suppliers, he said.

Kroger plans to preserve competition by selling at least 413 stores to C&S Wholesale Grocers, a $30 billion company Moses said has the capital and experience to manage those stores.

Given market trends, Moses said supermarket grocers must respond to non-traditional grocers to compete. “If supermarkets struggle, stores close.”

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FOR YOUR INFORMATION For more information about the proposed acquisition by Kroger of Albertsons, including Scott Moses’ analysis of the grocery industry, visit the website at www.krogeralbertsons.com.

December 7-20, 2023

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Looking

Continued from page 2 Over the past year, Mesa County payrolls increased 237 — up 0.31 percent — to 75,345. The overall labor force, which includes the employed and unemployed, grew 481 to 77,839.

According to a third quarter economic update for Mesa County prepared by Perry at CMU, average annual wages rose 10.2 percent to $55,484.

Sales tax collections, one measure of retail activity, lagged in October but continued to outpace collections 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. 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.

Higher interest rates on mortgages slowed real estate activity in Mesa County. Through 11 months of 2023, 3,369 real estate transactions worth a total of $1.45 billion were reported. Compared to the same span in 2022, transactions fell 24.3 percent and dollar volume declined 25.1 percent.

While new home starts lagged, construction of multifamily housing increased. That includes 257-unit and 78-unit apartment complexes.

Health care continues to drive the Mesa County economy as the largest industry sector. As of the first quarter of 2023, health care accounted for 18 percent of employment. Of the top 10 employers in the county, five are in the health care industry. In 2021, health care and social assistance accounted for 15.5 percent of gross domestic product, the broad measure of goods and services produced in the county. That was a 4.8 percent increase over the annual average change over the past 10 years.

Tourism and outdoor recreation remain important economic drivers as well, the summary states.

Lodging tax collections, a measure of hotel and motel stays, increased 7.8 percent in 2022 over 2021. Hotel occupancy rates in

The Business Times

Grand Junction in January, February and March 2022 reached the highest levels ever for those three months.

After its busiest year ever for commercial traffic in 2021, enplanements subsequently declined at the Grand Junction Regional Airport after Delta discontinued flights between Grand Junction and Salt Lake City because of pilot shortages. Breeze Airways announced in November it expects to launch three routes in 2024 that will offer service between Grand Junction and Orange CountySanta Ana and San Francisco in California as well as Provo, Utah.

Outdoor recreation contributes more than $484 million a year to the Mesa County economy and accounts for nearly 10,000 jobs, according to the results of a study conducted by researchers at Colorado Mesa University in 2022.

Employment in aviation, aerospace and parts manufacturing is expected to increase 3.5 percent in 2023 in part as West Star Aviation further expands its maintenance, repair and overhaul operations at the Grand Junction Regional Airport.

The technology and software industry also is expected to continue to grow and gain recreation.

The energy sector has declined in Mesa County, though, with a 6.3 percent drop in the number of energy employees and 11.4 percent drop in GDP from the sector over the past decade.

Looking ahead, the summary forecasts continued business growth and investments in commercial real estate.

As of May 2023, new business filings from Mesa County were up 13.4 percent compared to the same month a year ago. Through the first 11 months of 2023, 100 real esttate transactions worth more than $1 million each accounted for $214 million in total follar volume.

The summary cites ongoing efforts in downtown Grand Junction as well as the Riverfront at Las Colonias development and Dos Rios project.

"These strong economic indicators position Mesa County well for continued growth in 2024,” the summary states.

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December 7-20, 2023

State forecast: Payrolls to grow 41,900 in 2024

Colorado is expected to add more jobs in 2024, despite inflation and other economic headwinds, according to the latest results of an annual business and economic forecast.

The Colorado Business Economic Outlook report for 2024 projects the state will gain 41,900 jobs in 2024, a 1.4 percent increase in the number of employed workers.

Continued challenges next year will include inflation, high interest rates, a worker shortage and less consumer spending.

The business research division of the Leeds School of Business at the University of Colorado compiles the report, which analyzes 11 industry sectors and six geographic regions around the state.

The professional and business services sector is expected to add the most jobs in 2024 at 14,500.

Government payrolls, which acount for nearly one in six jobs in Colorado, are expected to increase 10,900.

Employment also is forecast to increase 9,400 in education and health services, 5,000 in leisure and hospitality, 1,300 in jother services and 1,200 in natural resources and mining.

The trade, transportation and utilities sector — the largest employer in Colorado — is projected to add 5,300 jobs.

The construction sector is expected to lose the most jobs in 2024 at 2,300 jobs as rising interest rates on mortgages slow demand for single-family housing.

The manufacturing sector will lose 1,400 jobs as growth is hampered by high interesr rates, shifting consumer behavior, drought and water issues.

The information sector is expected to lose 1,000 jobs as long-term declines in traditional publishing and telecommunications businesses continue.

The financial activities sector will lose 800 jobs as higher interest rates affect finance, insurance, real estate, rental and leasing.

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News Trends Contributors Real estate sales increase Opinion Business Briefs Business People Almanac

December 7-20, 2023

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INDICATORS AT A GLANCE

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

n Confidence

s Consumer Confidence Index 102 for November, up 2.9. 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, 19 in November, down from 18 in November 2022. t Foreclosure sales in Mesa County, 7 in November, down from 3 in November 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%. n Institute for Supply Management Purchasing Managers Index for manufacturing, 46.7% for November, unchanged.

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

s Real estate transactions in Mesa County, 272 in November, up 6.25% from November 2022. s Dollar volume of real estate transactions in Mesa County, $113 million in November, up 2.4% from November 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

Year-over-year gain in activity first in Mesa County in nearly two years Phil Castle

Overall real estate sales increased on a year-over-year basis in Mesa County in November, the first such gain in nearly two years.

The increase was attributed, though, more to slowing in 2022 than any surge in activity in 2023. Residential real estates sales declined in November, although the difference from a year ago was smaller.

Higher interest rates and lower residential Robert Bray inventories continue to affect the market, although more conducive conditions could develop next year.

“My guess is we’ve seen the high side of interest rates,” said Robert Bray, chief executive officer of Bray & Co. Real Estate based in Grand Junction.

Annette Young, administrative coordinator at Heritage Title Co. in Grand Junction, said 272 real estate transactions worth a total of Annette Young $113 million were reported in Mesa County in November. Compared to the same month a year ago, transactions increased 6.25 percent and dollar volume rose 2.4 percent.

The year-over-year increase was the first since December 2021, Young said.

The gain reflected slowing in the market a year ago, she said.

“The market we’re in today is the market we were in last year.”

Nine transactions worth a total of $18 million bolstered dollar volume in November 2023, Young said, including the sale of an industrial steel fabrication facility for $3.2 million, a multi-use commercial property for $3 million and vacant commercial land for $2.95 million.

Through the first 11 months of 2023, 3,369 transactions worth a collective $1.45 billion were reported, Young said. Compared to the same span in 2022, transactions declined 24.3 percent and dollar volume dropped 25.1 percent.

According to numbers Bray & Co. tracks for the residential

market, 179 transactions worth a total of more than $75.2 million were reported in Mesa County in November. Compared to the same month a year ago, transactions were down 5.8 percent and dollar volume down 4.4 percent.

Those proportional differences were lower than October, though, when transactions decreased 35.4 percent and dollar volume fell 28.7 percent.

Through the first 11 months of 2023, 2,472 residential transactions worth a total of almost $1.1 billion were reported. Compared to the same span a year ago, transactions were down 20 percent and dollar volume down 19.1 percent.

“There’s no question it’s the interest rate,” Bray said.

Higher interest rates on mortgages drive monthly payments higher, and the increased financing costs make homes less affordable, he said.

Residential inventories remain low — even lower than this time last year. As of the end of November, there were 523 active listings in Mesa County. That was down 8.7 percent from the 573 listings at the same time last year.

Many people who otherwise want to sell their homes are reluctant to do so because the interest rates on their mortgages are lower than what new financing would cost, Bray said. There’s some seasonality to the situation, too, in that people also are reluctant to sell their hones until after the holidays.

The median price of homes sold through the first 11 months of 2023 edged up to $390,000. But the 1.3 percent increase over the same period last year was smaller than what’s been double-digit proportional increases, Bray said.

Looking to 2024, Young and Bray said they expect market trends to continue as long as interest rates remain higher. “It’s kind of more of the same,” Young said.

But Bray said there are indications interest rates could relent.

The Mesa County economy remains strong and so does demand for housing, he said.

Meanwhile, property foreclosure activity in Mesa County remains lower than last year. Through the first 11 months of 2023, 225 foreclosure filings and 42 foreclosure sales were reported, Young said. that’s down four-tenths of a percent and 4.5 percent, respectively, from the same span in 2022.

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A measure of consumer confidence rebounded on more optimistic expectations for business and labor conditions.

The Conference Board reported its Consumer Confidence Index rose 2.9 points to 102 in November. The gain reversed three consecutive months of declines.

“Consumer expectations for the next six months recovered in November, reflecting improved confidence about future business Dana Peterson conditions, job availability and incomes,” said Dana Peterson, chief economist of the Conference Board, a New York-based think tank.

Still, the latest survey results upon which the index is based also reflect concerns about higher prices and the possibility of recession, Peterson said. “Around two-thirds of consumers surveyed in November still perceive a recession to be somewhat or very likely to occur over the next 12 months. This is consistent with the short and shallow recession we anticipate in the first half of 2024.”

Plans to purchase homes, automobiles and large appliances continued to trend downward on a six-month basis, Peterson said, a likely result of the effects of higher interest rates on financing.

Less optimistic assessments of current business and labor

conditions nudged the present situation component of the index down four-tenths of a point to 138.2.

The share of consumers who responded to the survey who called business conditions good rose 1.5 points to 19.8 percent.

But the proportion of those who considered conditions bad also rose — seven-tenths of a point to 19.5 percent.

The share of consumers who said jobs were plentiful increased 1.4 points to 39.3 percent. The proportion of those who said jobs were hard to get rose 1.3 points to 15.4 percent.

A more upbeat outlook among consumers pushed the expectations component of the index up 5.1 points. But at 77.8, the latest reading remained for a third straight month below 80, a level that historically signals a recession within the next year.

The proportion of consumers who said they expect business conditions to improve over the next six months rose 1.8 points to 17.3 percent. The share of those who anticipated worsening conditions fell 1.4 points to 19.5 percent.

The proportion of consumers who expect more jobs to become available rose eight-tenths of a point to 16.1 percent. The share of those forecasting fewer jobs slipped a tenth of a point to 19.6 percent.

While 17.2 percent of consumers said they expect their incomes to increase, 12.1 percent anticipated less income.

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Consumer Confidence Index rebounds

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December 7-20, 2023

Rural economic index retreats to three-year low A monthly index tracking the economy in rural areas of Colorado and nine other states has dropped to a three-year low.

The overall reading for the Rural Mainstreet Index fell for a third straight month. At 40.4, the latest reading remains below growth-neutral 50.

The overall reading for Colorado fell 16.5 points to 58.9.

Ernie Goss Overall readings also declined in eight of nine other states, increasing only in South Dakota.

“This is the weakest recorded reading in more than three years — or since June 2020 shortly after the beginning of the pandemic — and points to weaker farm and non-farm economies,” said Ernie Goss, an economics

professor at Creighton University in Omaha, Neb., who compiles the index.

A component of the index tracking confidence declined 2.9 points to 21.2, the lowest level since the monthly index began in January 2006. Goss said 58 percent of bankers responding to the survey upon which the index is based expect conditions to worsen over the next six months.

The new hiring component edged down a tenth of a point to 49.1 although job openings continue to exceed available applicants.

The home and retail sales component dropped 8.4 points to 32 as higher interest rates on mortgages curb home sales, Goss said.

The banking component dropped 19.8 points to 57.9.

“Higher short-term interest rates produced by Federal Reserve rate hikes over the past year continue to pose a

significant threat to community banks by expanding the cost of customer deposits while the rates on bank loans have not risen as significantly over the same time period,” Goss said.

Other components of the index increased, however.

The component for farming and ranching land prices climbed 11.1 points to 66.7. The component for farm equipment sales rose 1.5 points to 49.5.

In Colorado, the new hiring component of the index advanced a point to 58.8 and the farm and ranch land price component increased 10.1 points to 73.2.

Goss said the export of agricultural products from Colorado expanded to $128.4 million for the first three quarters of 2023, an increase of more than 34 percent from the same span in 2022.

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Trends Contributors Opinion Winter wonderment Business Briefs Business People Almanac

December 7-20, 2023

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COMING ATTRACTIONS

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

A small business startup workshop is scheduled for 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 7 at the center, 2591 Legacy Way. The workshop will cover the business planning process, including financing, legal structures, licensing requirements and registration. Admission is $55.

A presentation on cash flow budgeting for small business startups is set for noon to 1 p.m.

Dec. 19.

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 Young Professionals Network of Mesa County has scheduled its Christmas party for 6 to 8 p.m. Dec. 7 at the St. Mary’s Hospital helipad at 2635 N. Seventh St. in Grand Junction. Reservations are required.

For more information, visit www.ypnmc.org. n The Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business group has scheduled its end-of-the-year party for 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 12 at Our Lady of Perpetual Motion, 503 E. Aspen Ave. in Fruita. Admission to the members-only event is $30. For reservations or more information, call (970) 858-3894 or visit https://fruitachamber.org. n The Western Colorado Human Resource Association has scheduled an event for 3 to 5 p.m. Dec. 13 in the hospitality suite at Suplizio Field, located 1307 North Ave. in Grand Junction.

The celebration of the WCHRA legacy will feature Mary Augustin from the Society of Human Resource Management speakers bureau and a presentation on leaving an HR legacy. Light food and drinks will be provided.

Members of the WCHRA may attend at no charge. Guests will pay $20. For reservations or more information, visit www.wchra.org. n The next Coffee Club networking event is set for 9 to 10 a.m. Dec. 15 in the FWorks conference room at 325 E. Aspen Ave. in Fruita. The free event will feature Kayla Brown, executive director of the Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce, as well as Mike Bennett, Fruita city manager. For more information, visit the website located at https://gjincubator.org or https://fruitachamber.org. n The Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce has scheduled an energy summit as well as a legislative trip to the Colorado Capital and annual banquet The summit is set for 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Jan. 31 at a location to be determined.

Admission is $65 for chamber members, $75 for others.

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

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

March 1 at the Grand Junction Convention Center at 159 Main St. For more information about upcoming chamber events, visit https://gjchamber.org or call (970) 242-3214.

Weather-related closures and seasonal sickness raise questions One of my favorite holiday songs is “Winter Wonderland” — although I like the concept a lot better than the reality of walking in a winter wonderland. With apologies to Felix Bernard and lyricist Richard Bernhard Smith, who wrote this classic song in 1934, for my paraphrase, employees often work in a winter wonderland.

That raises questions: How should employers handle weather closures and sickness? n What should employers do on snow days?

The answer to this question depends on the answers to two other questions. Is the organization closed for the day? Are employees classified as non-exempt or exempt from overtime?

The answer is simpler for non-exempt employees. The Fair Labor Standards Act only requires employers pay non-exempt employees for the time Dean they work. Some employers provide Harris paid leave when the office is closed as opposed to the office remaining open while employees struggle to get to work. But an employer isn’t required to do so. If the employer chooses not to provide paid leave during closure days — or if an employee chooses not to come to work during inclement weather or other emergencies — the employer may allow employees to use any accrued paid time off benefits available for personal absences.

The answer is a bit more complicated with exempt employees. Employers must pay exempt employees for a closure caused by the employer or operating requirements of the business. This includes business closures caused by weather or such circumstances as power outages. And if the exempt employee chooses to stay home because of bad weather, the employer must pay the employee for the day if the exempt employee performs work during the day. But the employer may require the exempt employee to use paid time off benefits for any time the employee isn’t working, just as it may under normal circumstances in which an exempt employee takes off part of a workday.

But if the office remains open and the exempt employee chooses not to work from home, the employer isn’t obligated to pay the employee for the day the exempt employee doesn’t work. The Fair Labor Standards Act specifically allows pay deductions for full days an exempt employee doesn’t work for personal reasons — as opposed to sickness or injury.

The rise in remote work makes the question of snow days moot to some degree. Employees already working from home may continue to do so while the snow piles up in the yard. Many employees who normally commute to work are equipped to work from home. The employer may allow or direct the employee to do so. But the employer might consider employees who don’t work regularly from home might not have sufficient work available to make this practical.

But what happens if the office is closed and the employee who normally works from home runs out of work because of the office closure? Whether the employer directs the employee not to work at all because of the paucity of work or directs the employee to work and the work runs out during the day, the result is the same. The employer is obligated to pay the employee for the full day since no work is available to the employee because of the employer’s operating needs, not because of the employee’s choice not to work for personal reasons.

Employers must pay exempt employees for a closure caused by the employer or operating requirements of the business.

This includes business closures caused by weather or such circumstances as power outages.

n My employee says he’s sneezing and coughing only because of mistletoe and holly allergies. Can I send home employees who appear sick? Can I require them to use sick leave?

Yes, an employer may send home employees who appear to be sick with communicable diseases. Employers should make available sick leave or other paid leave just as it would for an employee call-in. But the employer should make sure it takes this approach consistently with all employees who appear to have communicable diseases.

Watch for more serious issues. I spoke with an employer whose employee was persistently coughing, but claimed the cough wasn’t caused by a communicable illness. Not every symptom is caused by a communicable disease. Conversely, some symptoms could result from more serious health conditions that aren’t communicable, but could require accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act or leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act. Finally, the Healthy Families and Workplaces Act (HFWA) requires Colorado employers to provide at least one hour of sick and safety leave for every 30 hours an employee works up to 48 hours for a full-time employee.

An employer’s PTO or sick leave plan could be more generous. An employer may not require a sick note or other documentation for absences of less than four consecutive days in which the employee was scheduled to work. And an employer may not count protected leave as an absence that would subject the employee to disciplinary measures for poor attendance.

But the HFWA only requires and protects up to 48 hours of mandatory sick leave. An employer with more generous leave allotments may take disciplinary action or require documentation for absences that exceed what the HFWA requires. Employers who offer PTO instead of separate sick and vacation leave should inquire of the employee whether an absence is for an HFWA-covered reason so the employee knows what leave is protected by the HFWA. Prepare now for a successful winter season.

The Employers Council makes available to its members resources on these questions and other seasonal employment issues. Employers Council consulting and enterprise level members may speak directly with human resources professionals and employment attorneys at any time.

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

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

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December 7-20, 2023

Turn team members and customers into raving fans My wife and I recently rediscovered a long-time Grand Junction favorite for dinner in a breezeway off Main Street.

The experiences we’ve enjoyed each time we’ve since frequented this establishment have been consistent, wonderful and fulfilling. The food, drinks, desserts, atmosphere and customer service are all fantastic.

And if anything requires adjustment, it’s always done happily, without hesitation and to our liking. Without fail, we leave there happy, satisfied, looking forward to our next Marcus and visit. What’s more, we never miss Straub an opportunity to encourage others to patronize this restaurant. In other words, we’re raving fans.

When customers like — better yet, love — your business, they’ll give you their patronage and happily share their glowing recommendations. Business owners who want to operate enterprises that survive in challenging times, thrive in easy times and stand out in the marketplace all the time should consistently endeavor to create raving fans of their customers.

The most effective way to create raving fans of your customers is to first create raving fans of your team members. They’re the ones who interact with your patrons and deliver customer service. In many instances, team members control the quality of the products and services you provide. If your team members don’t trust, respect, like and appreciate you, your business will suffer due to decreased customer satisfaction.

How do business owners and managers create raving fans of their team members? Consider three points: n People want to be liked and accepted. This is a basic

human need. We typically treat the people we like very differently from those we don’t. When you like someone, you take an interest in them, build relationships and care about them. They know it. They also know when you don’t like or care about them.

Your team members aren’t merely assets, resources or cogs in the wheels of business. They’re humans with lives, challenges, fears, hopes and dreams just like you.

Take the time to get to know your people. Most team members who are treated this way have a real sense of loyalty and commitment to the business and customers it serves. When people on your team feel cared about, they tend to return the favor to you and your customers. n People want to feel valued and appreciated. Don’t you? Remember to consistently praise team members for jobs well done. They aren’t going to be perfect. But if they give their best in caring for your customers, reward them with recognition so they know you value and appreciate them.

There are many ways to show appreciation to your team members. Knowing what they value matters. When a member of your team is on time, performs consistently high-quality work, improves their abilities and treats your customers with the utmost regard, reward them accordingly. Otherwise, they’ll work for another business and turn its customers into raving fans. n People want to feel important. They want to know they matter and contribute something of value to the team. Creating this feeling in your team members is as easy as involving them in the decision-making process.

If you’re truly running the company and they’re working in operations, your team members likely will be aware of things you’re not.

Ask for, listen to and really consider their input as you make decisions and implement changes. This doesn’t mean you’ll take action on every suggestion. But it does

mean you think enough of your team members — and ultimately your customers — to get their perspectives and implement their great ideas when and where you can.

Team members who are treated well are typically more engaged, motivated, caring, loyal and willing to go the extra mile for customers because business owners do the same for them. Turnover decreases, efficiency and productivity increase and sales are captured — not lost — in this business model.

No matter the economic landscape, I urge you to truly understand and honor the symbiotic relationships among you, your team members and customers. When your team members are your biggest fans, they create raving fans of your customers. Happy customers are repeat customers.

They typically spend more of their hard-earned money with you and become a great source of referrals.

It’s important to realize customer loyalty starts at the top — with business owners. Who you are and how you treat people in the process of doing business will be the ignition point for customer satisfaction, loyalty and success.

As you begin to involve, value, care for, recognize and support your team members to a greater degree, the quality of your business will rise along with them.

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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December 7-20, 2023

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To 8(a) or not 8(a)? Here’s help to answer the question Should you enroll your business in the U.S. Small Business Administration 8(a) program? Here’s some information to consider to help you decide.

First, what is the 8(a) program?

According to the SBA: “The 8(a) program is a robust, nine-year program created to help firms owned and controlled by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals.”

The program is designed for socially and economically disadvantaged small business owners who’ve already been in business for at least two years or more.

Janet It’s not a program for new businesses or startups.

Arrowood What benefits does your business derive from the 8(a) program? Here are some of the benefits: n Training and technical assistance designed to strengthen your ability to compete. n Federal contracting preferences, including 8(a) set-aside contracts in competition with other businesses in the 8(a) program as well as sole-source contracts. n One-on-one business development assistance from dedicated business opportunity specialists for the nine-year term of program participation. n Potential joint ventures with established businesses to increase capacity.

The 8(a) certification is a tool that opens access to many federal government opportunities that are otherwise off limits.

Having 8(a) certification doesn’t guarantee government contracts or preclude you from competing for other government or commercial contracts for which your business is qualified. You can still submit proposals for other set-aside programs, assuming you meet the requirements, including

The 8(a) program is really a nineyear business life cycle development system — the first four years in a development stage and final five years in a transition phase, preparing to re-enter the fully competitive world with the benefits of support, set-asides and training. those for small businesses, woman-owned businesses or service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses.

How does your business qualify for the 8(a) program?

Some of main requirements: n Be a small business based on your North American Industry Classification System codes. Check the website at www.sba.gov/size-standards/index.html. n Be at least 51 percent owned and controlled by U.S. citizens who are socially and economically disadvantaged. n Demonstrate the potential for success — such as having been in business for two years. n Meet asset, net worth and adjusted gross income limitations. n Be of “good character.”

The 8(a) program is really a nine-year business life cycle development system. You must start as a going concern that’s been in business at least two years and has a number of documented clients or customers. You spend the first four years in a development stage and the final five years in a transition phase, preparing to “fledge” and re-enter the fully competitive world with the benefits of counseling, support, set-asides and training.

An 8(a) application is submitted to the SBA and involves the following three basic — but complicated — steps. Start at the System for Award Management website at www.sam.gov and then: n Identify your primary NAICS code or codes. n Register your business at www.sam.gov. n Apply for 8(a) certification with the SBA. Keep in mind you must recertify your business meets the qualification criteria for 8(a) certification every year.

If your assets, adjusted gross income or net worth exceed limits, you could have to leave the program early.

It’s important to develop a plan for exiting the 8(a) program. You might be able to sell your business to another business that qualifies as an 8(a) or you could re-enter the business market as a traditional company. Without a well thought-out plan, everything you worked so hard to build could fade away. As a general rule, only 8(a) certified businesses can take over 8(a) awarded contracts, so planning is essential.

For additional information, visit the SBA website for the 8(a) program located at www.sba.gov/federalcontracting/contracting-assistance-programs/8a-businessdevelopment-program.

Seek out SBA and qualified legal, business and tax advice before embarking on the 8(a) or other business processes. The preceding material is not intended as tax, legal, business or other advice.

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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The Business Times

December 7-20, 2023

Employers play key role in combating trafficking Human trafficking is the act of compelling a person to engage in sexual acts or forced labor. Human trafficking includes migrant or child labor and can occur in any industry, including agriculture, construction, domestic work, hospitality and manufacturing. Human trafficking is widespread, and its effects extend to the Grand Valley.

Employers play a crucial role in combating human trafficking in inadvertently facilitating or preventing crimes in their workplaces.

The Trafficking Victims Protection Act prohibits employers from engaging in or benefiting from human trafficking — including recruiting, transporting or obtaining workers through force, fraud or coercion.

Employers must follow strict Gina guidelines when using H-2A and H-2B Archuleta visa recruiting. They must provide pamphlets informing employees of their rights. Employers also must inform employees how to contact authorities and organizations that can help them if they experience abuse or exploitation. It’s important for employers to understand the consequences of knowingly or unknowingly violating an act that provides for criminal prosecution and civil liability.

How do employers support their workforces and communities while preventing human trafficking? Here are some steps to consider: n Get to know your employees: Foster a workplace culture built on trust, openness, respect and support, making employees confident in approaching you. Prioritize understanding your workforce, particularly those in potentially vulnerable roles, like low-skilled labor and domestic work. Maintain vigilance against child labor

concerns and implement measures to safeguard minors from hazardous or exploitative employment conditions. n Follow ethical recruitment and hiring practices: Verify the identity and immigration status of new hires to prevent the use of fake documents. Use such processes as E-Verify. If you use recruitment agencies, ensure they follow legal and ethical practices and don’t engage in trafficking. n Implement training and awareness programs: Train employees — especially those in human resources, security and management positions — to recognize signs of human trafficking and respond appropriately. n Establish reporting and whistleblower protections: Establish clear and confidential reporting mechanisms for employees to report potential trafficking. Reports should be taken seriously and promptly investigated. n Know the signs: Be aware of such signs of exploitation as long hours, low wages, substandard living conditions and restrictions on freedom of movement. n Support survivors: If a case of human trafficking is discovered, provide support and resources to survivors and cooperate with law enforcement to prosecute traffickers.

Information is available from the National Human Trafficking Hotline at (888) 373-7888. n Understand vulnerable populations: Vulnerable individuals include those experiencing poverty and economic hardship, runaway or unhoused youth, those in foster care and juvenile justice systems, those with substance use disorders or mental health issues, foreign workers in the United States on temporary employment-based visas and undocumented workers When companies use background screening to vet job candidates, they should be prepared for disclosures related to potential human trafficking connections. This involves empathetic listening, confidential handling of the information, verifying its accuracy with the screening

company and encouraging candidates to seek support from authorities or specialized services. Thorough documentation of disclosures and subsequent actions is important.

Human trafficking can pose serious risks to the reputation, productivity and profitability of a company.

Employers must prepare to handle disclosure of human trafficking whether from current employees or those searching for employment: n Establish and maintain clear policies and procedures for background screening that cover all employees in the event human trafficking is disclosed. n Use reputable and reliable sources to conduct background checks, working with them to verify any claims of human trafficking. n Verify the identity and eligibility of all workers by checking their documents — including passports, work permits, visas or Social Security numbers. n Report any suspected or confirmed cases of human trafficking to the appropriate authorities in a timely manner.

Employers play a pivotal role in preventing human trafficking by staying informed about the issue, maintaining vigilance during hiring processes and taking proactive steps to safeguard vulnerable individuals from exploitation.

Gina Archuleta is a human resources business partner with Lighthouse HR Support in Grand Junction.

She brings to her duties more than 17 years of HR experience, including background screening for a diverse workforce while ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations. She holds Fair Credit Reporting Act certification. For more information about Lighthouse HR Support, call (970) 243-7789 or visit the website located at www.lighthousehrs.net.

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December 7-20, 2023

The Business Times

Page 29

Plan now to achieve business goals in the new year The approach of a new year constitutes a great time for both reflection and planning — especially for business owners and entrepreneurs. More than just a symbolic renewal, it’s an opportunity for a more focused effort to achieve goals.

Start by acknowledging the milestones you’ve already achieved.

Appreciation is a powerful motivator and serves as a reminder of the journey you’ve taken and reinforces the value of your pursuits. What you’re grateful for aligns with your core values and overarching vision you hold for your business.

Consistency is an important prerequisite of success. Start with Stewart developing a realistic weekly routine Cruickshank to which you know you’ll stick. This routine is a framework upon which your personal and professional goals rest.

By breaking down your objectives, you create a road map for the year ahead. Ponder what daily tasks move you closer to your dream outcome and write them down. It isn’t just about record keeping, though. It’s about commitment.

Think about what motivates you every day. Your inner motivations are key to maintaining momentum even when challenges arise. This ties into your mindset, the mental

attitude that determines your responses and interpretations of business situations.

Your health and well-being also affect the energy and focus you bring to your professional life. It’s important to integrate wellness into your business plan as a non-negotiable pillar for sustained productivity. This includes your social health. Your business plan should accommodate your social goals, acknowledging personal fulfillment intertwines with professional success.

Early childhood development has significant effects on businesses and the community. In fact, investments in early childhood development increases productivity.

Employees who have access to reliable, quality early care and education experience lower absentee and turnover rates. That, in turn, affects the bottom line for businesses in lowering recruitment and training costs.

Paul Alexander from West Coast Wheel Accessories in Grand Junction put it this way: “Child care business problem. My top guy Stephanie ishada to leave work yesterday in the Bivins middle of the day because he didn’t have child care. It’s a problem for expanding our business.”

Multiple efforts are in place. Child care slots are on the rise, recently exceeding 5,000 slots for the approximately 8,000 children ages newborn to 4 years old. Mesa County still lacks availability, however, which affects the economy.

Mesa County parents and caregivers report inability to accept employment due to a lack of available child care.

Business leaders report barriers to hiring and retention due

to the issue as many parents work.

One Mesa County parent said this: “I had a job offer with a starting date two days later. This was not enough time for me to find child care. It took weeks, and I ultimately quit because I couldn’t find reliable care.”

The child care industry supports other industries, allowing families to join and make gains in the local workforce and stimulate the economy.

Childhood development also affects our children’s trajectories. This important stage lays the foundation for school readiness and their future success. Our children deserve access to what they need to thrive — quality care and education, healthy foods that nurture their bodies and minds and a solid foundation that sets the stage for their futures.

Businesses can implement family friendly policies to assist working families, including hybrid models and flexible schedules.

Community Hospital and the City of Grand Junction also are implementing employer-based child care in partnership with the Colorado Department of Early Childhood as well as the Executives Partnering to Invest in Children.

The Mesa County Partnership for Children and Families (PCF), the county’s early childhood council,

Your health and well-being also affect the energy and focus you bring to your professional life.

It’s important to integrate wellness into your business plan as a non-negotiable pillar for sustained productivity. This includes your social health. Your business plan should accommodate your social goals, acknowledging personal fulfillment intertwines with professional success.

Setting aside time for relaxation and fun isn’t just about striking a balance between work and life. It’s also about maintaining the enthusiasm and creativity that fuel your business endeavors.

Marketing is not a standalone component. It must be interwoven with your business goals. A sound marketing plan reflects your business’s objectives, resonates with your target audience and reinforces your brand presence in the market.

Finally, continuous learning is crucial in pursuing your goals. Engage in research, seek new knowledge and stay ahead of industry trends. This commitment to learning ensures your business strategy remains relevant and responsive to the changing business landscape.

As you embark on a new year, let these considerations guide your journey. Set forth with clarity, motivation and an all-encompassing approach to your business and personal aspirations. Happy New Year.

Stewart Cruickshank is sales manager of Bray & Co. Real Estate in Grand Junction. The company provides a range of services related to residential and commercial real estate, property management, maintenance and construction in Mesa County as well as Delta, Garfield and Montrose counties. For more information, call (970) 242-3647 or visit www.brayandco.com.

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Businesses play a role in promoting childhood development

maintains a child care database called Bridgecare — visit https://childcare.mesacountypcf.org — employers can share with families searching for care. PCF also offers a local resource with further information on local and state efforts or how to get involved.

Early childhood constitutes the most rapid time in human development — 85 percent of all brain development occurs by age 3.

Parents should also be able to go to work, expand their careers and provide for their families without barriers or worrying at work about their children. Investing in early childhood development not only benefits our families, but also our community now and in the future.

By recognizing the importance of early childhood, businesses can make a positive impact on the community, cultivate economic growth and promote a healthy future for children and the workforce.

Stephanie Bivins is director of the Mesa County Partnership for Children and Families, an early childhood council focused on strengthening partnerships and leveraging resources to support the holistic development of children. For additional information, log on to https://mesacountypcf.org.

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Contributors Opinion Bold predictions for 2015 on, Christmas always comes early And the beat goes A new year affords Business Briefs more like not-so-bold repeats with annual economic forecast sometimes too loudly a new opportunity Business People Almanac to meet local needs THE he BUSINESS usiness T T Times IMES

PAGE age 30 22

For an economics geek like me, Christmas always comes early in the form of an annual forecast for Colorado.

It was the same treat yet again this year when the research division of the Leeds School of Business at the University of Colorado at Boulder unwrapped its business and economic report for 2024.for The reportstart covers A new year almost alwaysoutlook brings an opportunity a fresh andno less 11 industry renewed ambition tothan do things better.sectors and six geographic regions, including County. my.toThere’s something for better everybody.

In business, thatMesa usually boils Oh down providing customers products once again devoted considerable space in the and services faster and atAnd lower cost thanI competitors.

Part of the process must Business Times for coverage theactually report and forecast include listening to customers to determine what of they needtheand then for the year yougood haven’t already, hopeand yougreatest really will meeting that need. After all, ahead. it does Iflittle to offer the Ilatest if want to read all selling. about it. nobody actually wants what you’re But that wait,belong as the television pitchthe promises, there’s more.

Just like the businesses to the group, Grand Junction Area Phil Castle The invariably Grand Junction Chamber of Commerce hosts an of Chamber of Commerce startsArea out the new year with a reassessment annual iteconomic luncheon featuring the services and resources providesoutlook and how well they match Rich with Wobbekind, members faculty director of the the research division atofthethe Leeds School of Business.

Those needs. Jeff Franklin, new chairman chamber board of directors, who don’t necessarily wantintodescribing take my words can hear ithisdirectly from personifies this approach whatfor he itconsiders role for the the coming economist’s mouth.

Again,determine I’m something of an economics geek.those But Dr. Wobbekind year: listen to members, their needs and then meet needs.

It’s a is as with entertaining as he is informative.

Hismarket presentations areofwell worth the price of role which Franklin is familiar as president Bank of Colorado. admission — which Grand also includes lunch. in what the chamber The process willintake onJunction a more structured approach in store for plansSoaswhat’s the resumption of 2024? a program aptly called Listening to Business. Under the According to the summary of thein section about Mesa County, the outlook program, business owners participate in-depth interviews to identify barriersisto mostly “As Mesa continues a controlled growth trajectory, growth encouraging: and other problems theyCounty encounter. the industry to diversify, which essential for ensuring economic The newbase yearcontinues offers a good time to join theisproverbial club. resilience and sustainability.”

As an advertiser or reader, what do you need from the Business Times?

It doesn’t necessarily take an economist or the a business While business journals traditionally gather andeditor reportofthe relevant journal news to to noticecommunication the new businesses operations in the Grand Valley, the existing readers, isn’t opening necessarily a one-way street.

That’s especially true as businesses expanding and construction under way.

That’s Web sites and e-mail make the dialogueprojects more convenient than ever.an indicator, of course, of business and don’t economic Moreover, it’s a to leading indicator Good publications exist conditions. in a vacuum.

They respond the needs of that signals what likely will be subsequent growth in payrolls. advertisers and readers. They provide what’s needed.

As is usually theneed? case with economics, the news isn’t all good.

So what do you Hampered by higher interest ratesthat on mortgages, activity has Is there additional news coverage would help real keepestate you informed about dropped in Mesa County. Through the first 11 months of 2023, transactions local business developments?

Are there features that would be interesting or were down percent.

Thethat combined dollaryour volume thoseeasier? deals fell 25.1 percent useful?24.3 Is there advice would make jobsof a little compared to the same span in 2022.

It’s equally important to ask what you don’t need. With limited time to While the latest unadjusted rate remains lowspace at be produce content and seasonally limited space in whichunemployment to publish it, would time and 3.2 percent, there was little growth better devoted to something else? in payrolls and the labor force over the past year.

Statewide, theWhat Colorado Economic Outlook What’s good? isn’t?Business What’s needed?

What isn’t? report calls for the addition of 41,900 jobs in 2024 as gains in seven industry sectors are expected to Let us know. Send us an e-mail. Comment online on the Business Times Web more offset losses in four otherYou sectors. are likely to blow, site atthan www.thebusinesstimes.com. couldBut evenheadwinds write an old-fashioned letter to including onlylike. highYour interest rates, but inflation, shortages andand the the editor not if you’d feedback, bothalso positive and labor negative, is valued prospect of decreased consumer spending. will be carefully considered.

Nothing’s ever certain.

Butresult I remain hopeful 2024 will of betheir a good year.but also Good publications are the of not only the efforts staffs, The realization of that hope would be a good Christmas gift, too.

One that would collaborative efforts involving advertisers and readers. keepLike giving. any other good business, we want to listen to our customers, find out what they need and then meet those needs.

Phil It’s Castle is editor 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.

It’s that time of year when Dang. Now I’ve got the Sonny and resolutions and prognostications abound.

Cher song stuck in my head.toHow My favorite saying applied Newcool Year’s was life back daythey’re if you basically know a resolutions is in that saying when song came What a great bunchthat of promises to out. break the first week time to growAnd up.while But this column isn’ta of January.

I won’t predict about show much version of life whole the lot,variety I can pretty accurately or spices that sprinkled allquestion over its nailworldly a few things without smorgasbord entrees. about will make theofnews.

YouI’m willtalking see these are the beating one’s heart — literally. pretty, well,of predictable: Of all of the one: ■ Prediction aches and There and willpains be some symptoms and side sort of weather event, effects naturalresulting disaster from or my heartoccurrence surgery, one heinous stands above will all the where out someone others.

But let’s and takesay be interviewed athe moment and review following: “I’ve the ongoings going on. never seen anything Simply like thatbecause in my this column is It’s my as groove. lifetime.” if this Craig Hall Hall While actually, Craig personnot is a—required while —complaining attendee at every news and in no particular order, let’s spin some reporting event. While I understand most 33 1/3 RPMs of fun resulting frombebypass people’s perspective can indeed limited and valve replacement surgery. by, or contained within, their own personal Up front,itmy sternum experiences, is too muchstill to aches ask tomost days.

I’ve beenhistorical informedperspective this might never consult some before go away.

Perhaps I shouldn’t put socan saying such a thing?

Yes, thishave response much in hearing takes 10 weeks apply faith to some events.itBut when it comes to 12 weeksand to heal.

It doesn’t.

It was weather natural disasters, I’mthat pretty long before I could history start to rebuild strength sure this is simply repeating itself. and become as active in life as I was beforeof Same as it has for millions and millions surgery, Healing fully is athe whole other years. More important, planet made it! subject.

Like were the concrete HooverHow’s Dam, What didn’t certain in species. being fully settled will take longer than that for perspective? my lifetime.

I havetwo: plenty of twinges ■ Prediction When it comesand to a spasms remind me. crime ortosomething that occurs between Howthe about legs?attendee I’ve always humans, otherthose required at all been I haveevents great islegs, news told reporting the especially person whomy calves.

OK, too we’re personal. speaking of says this: “They just But the nicest calves, tight. people, mine and inare noconstantly way did I see something Maybe from all the walking now. like thisit’s coming.”

Exactly.

No oneI do does Daily another side effect most ofwalking the timeiswhen it comes to you don’t pay any attention to before surgery. neighbors and acquaintances.

People should It’s 3 miles aatday, five days weektime to be surprised what goes onafrom (sounds like neighborhoods, a local paper, heh). time in their towns and So explainable. howare withperhaps people that’s they know becauseBut people about my thighs? leaving weird good. And for the While times that they the shouldn’t stuff aside, — thelike rightwith thigh still aches be shocked politicians, repeat where they took out a vein and now offenders and terrorists — where’s the has aches that all the way up to wheresurprise the interview says, “This doesn’t vein noleast.” longer located. My left thigh me inisthe has numbness thatthree: comes and goesgood and ■ Prediction Something sometimes the whole will happenaffects economically, andleg. the Some non-doctor, internet-related research government will take credit for it. The most shows it’s fromisthe legwhere position” recent example gas“frog prices, people one is put surgery. lasted ask me whyinIduring won’t credit the Mine president for nine hours.

Ribbit. low gas prices.

My answer is simple: Speakingnever of hospital positions, Government makes the price ofoh my aching back. days a hospital something goTen down andinsimply takesbed credit will do itnews. to youGas no matter hospitaltoor for good pricingthe is subject bed, my walks constantly remind manyasglobal factors.

Now there are me.

Then there’sanswers the constant runny nose — of government to addressing some sometimes a little probably them to keep pricesbloody stable — forthat Americans, results the several medications but ourfrom government has none of themI’ll in be on seemingly Orhas myinjaw, which place.

The onlyforever. things it place in the

ecember 7-20, 2015 2023 JDANUARY 15-28,

long run always hurt consumers. Another goes from time to time.

Or just how fact isnumb that unemployment reaches a certain weird I feel on from split And openwhile and the level based thebeing economy. put back together. government might Humpty brag the Dumpty’s number is got low, nothin’ me.likely Except still fat, while it’s moreonthan thehe’s government did I’ve lost 30topounds and number kept it off.

Wait, something cause that being low there’s bonus in all way. this? Conversely, It’s little comfort — and anot in a good when when mypicks bloodup, pressure showsthe high. business it’s because people That makes my blood who need totaking buy widgets whopressure were notjust another way to make mythe blood pressure buying widgets because economy was high. contracting due to natural (or unnatural, I wish I caused) could have concluded at we the government reasons, decided time mysome 12-week (non)healing this is betterofbuy widgets.

The government how things go in life had nothing to now do with this.number two I get ■ thePrediction privilege four: of living.

And during In keeping with that privileged time, I can address all the of things the government does, I predict them and make better.the While they to government willthings manipulate numbers irritate meclaim and work on me mentally make the the economy is gettingin my first of needed grace betteryear because of how hardand it ishealing, workingit’s to comforting know these too shall pass. help all of usto“working Americans.”

Now With all that said, you might say,of“Craig, youthere’s alwaysone say this ongoing symptom that poses quite about President Obama because youthe don’t hurdle.

ToYou’re paraphrase AllenI don’t Poe: like him.” right Edgar in a sense.

“It’s of what my hideous knowthe thebeating man, but I know heart.” of him and After ignoring it for like more 60one years, his thinking, I don’t it than or him iota. believe me, go it’soff, weird to feelIitdidn’t nearly every Before you however, like waking whether hectic,stimulus peaceful, Presidentmoment Bush and his bailouts, anxious or just watching themarket game. to Making and his abandoning the free save this newmarket. aspect of myI life more the free And don’teven know him entertaining either. What are the premature governmentventricular does, and the contractions.

Mydo, heart decides skipping a only thing it can is hurt the economy. beat is something it wants to do 20 percent Unless it does nothing or put criminals in of time.of Imagine taking your pulse and jailthe instead partnering with them, nothing one of the thumps doesn’t thump.

So, what the government does will help.

Always look does oneway, do when all one hear is their at it this whatever thecan government says own heart while living a condition it is doing, whatever thewith name of the law it where seemingly everything is related is passing, or whatever the name or goaltoof the heart? bureaucracy it is presenting to the Well, you the make your heartbeat people, expect polar opposite to occur. evidence you’re It’s easier, I guess whatliving.

I’m saying is thatyet also harder, than to yougetthink when perhaps it’s time out of our you’ve own ignored yourThere’s heart for muchofofhistory your life. perspective. plenty Today, my historical unique heartbeat I’m books and researchtells out me there to alive. unique because begin Itosay understand that all according of this has to a book Ibefore. read, I’m and happened Andfearfully it will again, wonderfully madeis—people and for purpose. whether the topic or agovernment.

No matter howrecommendation many folks tell me The best is tomy find heart is due my beliefs, some condition books or try thattowhole Googlemy beliefs tell me aI’m for a reason. thing. There’s lot here of information onAfter the all, it’sDepression. why we ask:The Why amisI here?

Why Great truth it wasn’t am wayone thatuntil I am?theWhy do I think evenI the a good government got the way I There’s do? involved. also plenty of research I don’t have warm all theperiod answers for me on the medieval when the or you.was But much I do know this:than They are the planet warmer today with right questions seeking thewarmer creator well of a whole lot lessinpeople (and you as aman creation.

Put at another wayyep, with before was here all). And am old-school reference, “I likesurprised this heart, people have been killing other Dick (Clark), it’s got was a nice beat.

I’ll give people since history first written. it a 10.”

Maybe some research will help stop your life be a hit. Because all ofMay these trends.

Otherwise, we’ll it’s be a one-hit wonder.

Thatseen said,anything I got you, saying we’ve never likebabe. it in So it’s not twoinhits. ourperhaps lives. And 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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December 7-20, 2023

The Business Times

Page 31

In charging ahead, Stifling the benefits of AI not an intelligent approach Consumers stuck on treadmill of debt There was a time long, long ago when purchases required planning. Customers paid with cash or checks issued from their bank accounts. Money had to be available to pay for purchases, and was saved prior to the purchase of bigger items. Purchases required conscious decisions about both the need for products and sufficiency of funds.

Layaway was a marketing tool that enabled customers to reserve merchandise while payments were made. Once the item was paid in full, the customer received it. This arrangement seemed to work well despite Phyllis the inconvenience to Hunsinger customers and stores.

Fast forward to today, when statistics indicate most purchases are made with credit cards.

Customers and merchants enjoy the convenience of swiping cards. Customers don’t need to have enough cash to cover every expense. A card extends credit that might otherwise be denied by lending institutions. The merchants are happy to no longer have to deal with cash or checks.

Shopping with a credit card is convenient and uncomplicated. But it becomes easy to buy on impulse and overspend. When credit card bills arrive, the amount spent the previous month often exceeds the available money to pay.

Credit card companies are more than willing to extend credit should the customer be unable to pay the balance.

A reprieve, but at what cost?

Before getting behind on a credit card, it’s helpful to check out the minimum payment warning on the statement. It will say how long it will take you to pay off the balance, assuming more charges aren’t added. The interest rate is many times higher than borrowing from a bank. Some credit card companies charge 30 percent and up. Research the negatives of carrying a credit card balance.

The gift-giving season is upon us.

Purchasing with a credit card might allow an immediate solution to the desire to buy a gift. But watch out. According to Lending Tree, total credit card debt in the United States topped $1 trillion at the end of the third quarter. According to the same report, 56 percent of active credit card users in the U.S. carried a balance.

This results in a staggering amount of personal debt.

Credit cards aren’t inherently bad.

The amount of personal debt on credit cards proves not evil intent, but a lack of financial literacy. A good rule of thumb is to never put on a credit card more than

Total credit card debt in the United States topped $1 trillion at the end of the third quarter, and 56 percent of active credit card users in the U.S. carried a balance.

can be paid in full upon receipt of the bill. Credit cards are a great financial tool when used properly.

Credit cards with unpaid balances represent debt. NerdWallet distinguishes between good debt and bad debt. Good debt helps you acquire appreciating assets, like a house or business. Bad debt doesn’t provide something of ongoing value to the person who owes it.

Credit card debt can have a significant effect on your net worth. Matt Schulz with Lending Tree wrote credit card debt in this country is one of the biggest barriers to building wealth: “When you carry a balance on your credit cards, you not only have to pay interest on that debt, but it also reduces the amount of money you have available to save and invest.”

The air is filled with Christmas music and aroma of baked treats Store fronts glow with decorations. It’s the gift-giving season. Unfortunately, the lack of financial literacy has citizens stressed on a treadmill of indebtedness.

Perhaps a gift could be given to satisfy both needs. “Economics in One Lesson” by Henry Hazlitt constitutes an excellent source of economic knowledge.

In his succinctly written book, Hazlitt offers an engaging analysis of economic fallacies with real world examples that resonate with readers. There are numerous economic books from which to choose, but none more to the point or enjoyable.

Do someone on your gift list a favor.

Help them become financially literate.

Buy them a book so they can avoid the pitfalls of spending more than they can afford by thoughtlessly charging ahead.

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

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

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No one should be surprised when the Joe Biden administration stakes out policy ground that diverges greatly from the views and well-being of small businesses. That’s been the case on a wide array of issues — from taxes to regulations to intellectual property and more. Now we see it again regarding advancements in artificial intelligence.

According to the results of a Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council survey about AI adoption, 75 percent of small businesses use AI tools for an array of business functions.

As noted in the report: “Among users of AI solutions, financial management tools (40 percent) are the most commonly used. AIpowered email marketing automation (32 percent), cybersecurity (32 percent) and inventory management (28 percent) are also widely used tools. On average, small businesses use four AI tools, and the survey identified nearly 20 different areas where AI is being used to support business operations.”

As for key reasons cited by small business owners for Raymond adopting AI tools, 54 percent said it was their own research, Keating peer influence and comfort with technology; 51 percent cited time and cost savings; 29 percent noted competitive pressures; 26 percent said inflationary pressures; 25 percent highlighted high labor costs; and 19 percent pointed to augmenting skilled labor or lack of access to skill labor.

In general, 82 percent of small business owners found AI tools provided benefits in running and growing their businesses, and 93 percent said AI tools offered solutions that lowered costs and improved profitability.

Small business owners reported a median weekly savings of 13 employee hours due to AI tools and pegged the median weekly time saved by small business owners themselves at 13 hours. Those savings came in at a conservatively estimated 6.33 billion hours in owner and employee time saved or better used and translated into estimated savings of $273.5 billion annually.

The history of innovation in our economy indicates that even the additional more expansive and speculative savings estimates included in this report could be naively conservative. While no one can know the exact numbers in terms of future productivity gains from AI, understanding how free enterprise works means we can count on entrepreneurs building on gains with AI innovations in ways few can imagine. The results will be transformative.

As innovations create real and significant potential for generating savings in time and money, these results ultimately mean enhanced productivity for entrepreneurs and their employees. These gains in turn fuel enhanced earnings for owners and workers.

Advancements in AI fit in with the history of innovation, as investments open up new opportunities for entrepreneurs, businesses, employees and consumers.

As highlighted in the report, the resulting benefits are quite real: “Time saved on human capital has allowed small business owners to redirect employee time to highervalue work (41 percent), invest in innovative solutions for customer engagement and retention (39 percent), invest in new equipment and technology (37 percent), keep prices stable for customers (36 percent), pursue growth opportunities (34 percent), increase wages and benefits (25 percent), set aside capital for emergencies and other purposes (25 percent) and pay down debt more quickly (20 percent).”

Having pointed out the opportunities offered to entrepreneurs, their employees and the economy, the survey also found that 85 percent of small businesses agreed government must balance regulation and innovation in AI. While small businesses look for balance in regulating AI, not wishing to stifle innovation, President Biden’s executive order on AI points to sweeping government regulation and interference. The order is rich in vagueness and potentially sweeping government intervention and controls, including government reviews that seem to pose clear threats to innovation and intellectual property in the U.S. The order seems destined to inflict interference, roadblocks and inefficiencies; foundations being established for expanded workplace regulation; more uncertainty and costs thanks to hyperactive antitrust regulation; and further diverting trade agreements from properly being means to reducing government costs and interference to actually increasing such governmental burdens.

This regulate-on-all-fronts philosophy is a recipe for undercutting entrepreneurship, innovation, investment and U.S. global leadership in AI and related technology. Based on the extraordinary value AI provides, small businesses and their employees would suffer from such government interference.

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

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

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n WELLNESS CENTER ANNOUNCES SWITCH TO TIERED BOOKING AND PAYMENT STRUCTURE

The Middle Wellness Center — a massage, spa and wellness center in downtown Grand Junction — announced a new booking and payment structure for massage therapists.

The Middle Wellness Center transitioned to a tiered rate structure for licensed massage therapists, advanced practitioners and master practitioners.

The structure is intended to reward experience and expertise and provide a career progression for massage therapists, but also ensure clients receive services from therapists whose skills and experience match their needs and preferences.

The Middle Wellness Center offers a range of services that include therapeutic massage, Cryoskin treatments, salt therapy and a medical sauna. The center also offers yoga classes and community wellness workshops.

The Middle Wellness Center is located at 546 Main St. on the lower level. For additional information, call (970) 549-4030 or visit the website at www.themiddlewellness.com. n MAIN STREET BAGELS OFFERS SPECIAL ON GIFT CARDS PURCHASED IN DECEMBER Main Street Bagels will offer a Christmas season special on gift cards through Dec. 31.

Guests who purchase five gift cards of any denomination will receive a sixth card at no charge worth the lowest denomination of the other five cards.

Main Street Bagels is located at the intersection of Sixth and Main streets in downtown Grand Junction and open from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

The artisan bakery and cafe serves a variety of bagels and other baked goods; coffee and other beverages; and salads, sandwiches and soups.

For more information, visit https://gjmainstreetbagels.com or call (970) 241-2740.

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HopeWest based in Grand Junction has scheduled an event to offer information about its Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE).

The event is set for 9:45 to 10:30 a.m. Dec. 14 at the Mesa County Libraries central branch located at 443 N. Sixth St. in Grand Junction. The event will be open to the public.

No registration is required.

Participants will have an opportunity to learn about PACE and the range of medical and support services intended to help the elderly remain in their homes for as long as possible.

The programs are funded through Medicare federal health insurance for those 65 and older as well as Medicaid, a joint federal and state program offering health coverage for individuals who meet certain functional and financial requirements.

PACE offers all-inclusive care for people in 12 Zip Codes in Mesa County — with the exception of outlying areas.

Participants must be at least 55 years old. They also must meet the criteria for care at a nursing facility, but also be able to live safely in the community with the assistance of PACE services.

The program provides a range of services, including primary and specialty medical care, prescription medications, medical equipment, physical and occupational therapy, dietary counseling and transportation.

The program delivers some services in participants’ homes, but also delivers a range of services from an 80,000-squarefoot day center in Grand Junction. The center includes a medical clinic as well as dining and recreation areas, a salon, barbershop and meeting rooms.

For additional information about the HopeWest Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, call (970) 255-7223 or log on to https://hopewestpace.org.

n HILLTOP HEALTH ACCESS OFFERS ASSISTANCE IN ENROLLING IN HEALTH INSURANCE PLANS Hilltop Health Access provides assistance during the health insurance open enrollment period.

A certified assistance site for Colorado Connect for Health, Hilltop Health Access can help people compare coverage options and determine if tax credits are available to reduce the cost of coverage as well as enroll in a plan. People have until Dec. 15 to enroll in coverage that will begin on Jan. 1.

Assistance is available by appointment. During walk-in Wednesdays, certified health coverage guides are available to help people. For an appointment or information, call (970) 244-0850 or visit www.hillopshealthaccess.org. n CITY OF GRAND JUNCTION AND KIWANIS CLUB TEAM UP TO STAGE SANTA CAUSE RUN The City of Grand Junction and Kiwanis Club of Grand Junction has scheduled a benefit run for Dec. 9 beginning at the amphitheater at Los Colonias Park.

The Santa Cause Run will include a 5-kilometer race starting at 10:15 a.m. A 1-kilometer run for children 11 years and younger will start at 10 a.m. For additional information, visit the website at www.visitgrandjunction.com/events/santa-cause-1k5k-run.

Race-day registration will be available and include t-shirts or Santa suits while supplies last. The event will fund the purchase of inclusive playground equipment.

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Intermediaries sought for apprenticeship programs A state agency is seeking applications for qualified organizations that will play a role in expanding a registered apprenticeship program in Colorado.

Apprenticeship Colorado, part of the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment Office of the Future of Work, will recognize apprenticeship intermediaries.

A virtual town hall is scheduled for noon to 1 p.m. Jan. 9 to offer more information about eligibility and the application process. More information about the event is available from the CDLE website at https://cdle.colorado.gov.

“Apprenticeship works best when partners come together to support employers to launch and sustain programs. A widescale system of quality apprenticeship intermediaries creates the opportunity to enhance our system while prioritizing what matters — jobseekers and employers,” said Denise Miller, director of Apprenticeship Colorado.

“As the state apprenticeship agency, we are excited to coordinate this strategy to focus on the high-quality training needs and resources to accelerate adoption of this training model.”

Qualified apprenticeship intermediaries include public and private organizations involved in expanding or enhancing the registered apprenticeship system through their support of

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jobseekers, apprentices, employers and sponsors. Intermediaries can include apprenticeship training committees, community colleges, economic development organizations, industry or trade associations, school districts and state agencies.

Organizations can apply for recognition through one or two categories.

Industry apprenticeship intermediaries address employer needs through apprenticeships by providing such services as designing and delivering curriculum, reducing administrative burden through tools, offering professional development and providing financial support and other resources to support the growth and sustainability of apprenticeship programs.

Talent apprenticeship intermediaries focus on career seeker and apprentice needs, especially those facing employment barriers, by ensuring they’re aware of apprenticeship programs, have the resources and referrals to enroll in programs and the support necessary to complete programs and understand career pathways.

Recognition as a qualified apprenticeship intermediary provides several benefits, including eligibility to compete for funding opportunities and participation in training and other events.

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n TECHNOLOGY ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES NEW EXECUTIVE

Brittany Morris Saunders has been selected to lead an organization advocating for the technology industry in Colorado.

Morris Saunders will serve as the next president and chief executive officer of the B. Morris Saunders Colorado Technology Association.

“I am honored and excited to join the Colorado Technology Association at this critical juncture in the industry’s evolution,” Morris Saunders said. “CTA has a rich history of championing innovation and fostering a collaborative ecosystem, and I will build upon this legacy.”

Mark Fitzgerald, chairman of the CTA board of directors, said Morris Saunders will strengthen CTA’s role as a catalyst for economic development, tech talent expansion and technological advancements in the region. “Brittany brings a dynamic leadership style and a strategic vision that aligns seamlessly with CTA’s commitment to empowering the technology community.”

Morris Saunders will succeed Frannie Matthews, who announced in July she would step away from the role at the end of the year.

Morris Saunders expects to join CTA on Dec. 11 and begin developing a fouryear strategic plan for the organization in partnership with the CTA staff, board of directors and member companies.

Morris Saunders will bring to her new duties more than 20 years of experience representing Colorado businesses and industries.

She most recently served as head of community affairs for Amazon.

Before that, she was president of Sewald Hanfling, a Denver-based consulting firm.

As senior vice president of the Downtown Denver Partnership, she led economic development, marketing and public policy effort for that organization.

The Colorado Technology Association represents more than 300 companies and a network of 18,000 leaders statewide in promoting a thriving and inclusive techbased economy. The non-profit organization encourages economic development, industry connections and engagement, policies that lead to innovation. For more information, visit https://coloradotechnology.org.

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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 at www.thebusinesstimes.com. n COMMERCIAL BROKER RECEIVES DESIGNATION Becca Posner, a commercial real estate broker with Coldwell Banker Prime Properties in Grand Junction, has received the Certified Commercial Investment Member designation.

The Certified Commercial Investment Becca Posner Member Institute bestows the designation to those who’ve completed more than 200 classroom hours, met professional experience requirements and demonstrated expertise in investment and market analysis and negotiations in the lease and sale of commercial real estate.

Posner brings to her duties brokerage and development experience in all types of commercial property, including industrial, land, office and retail. She holds a master’s degree in education.

Coldwell Banker Commercial Prime operates offices at 131 N. Sixth St., Suite 300.

For more information, call (970) 243-7375 or visit www.cbcworldwide.com. n GOVERNOR APPOINTS LOCAL AFFAIRS DIRECTOR Maria De Cambra has been appointed executive director of the Colorado Department of Local Affairs.

De Cambra served as communications and community engagement director for Colorado Maria De Cambra Gov. Jared Polis since the beginning of his first time. She succeeds Rich Garcia, who had served in the role since 2019.

De Cambra previously served as mayor pro tem of the Westminster City Council and a senior associate at Hilltop Public Solutions F

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Dec. 7 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business networking luncheon, noon to 1 p.m., Hotel Maverick, 840 Kennedy Ave, Grand Junction. Admission $25 for members, $35 for others. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 n Business startup workshop, 2 to 4 p.m., Business Incubator Center, 2591 Legacy Way, Grand Junction. Admission $55. https://gjincubator.org or 243-5242 n Young Professionals Network of Mesa County Christmas party, 6 to 8 p.m., St. Mary’s Hospital helipad, 2635 N. Seventh St., Grand Junction. Reservations required. www.ypnmc.org Dec. 11 n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce economic outlook luncheon, noon to 1:30 p.m., Colorado Mesa University Center ballroom. Admission $25 for chamber members, $30 for others. https://gjchamber.org or 242-3214 Dec. 12 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business members only end of the year party, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Our Lady of Perpetual Motion, 503 E. Aspen Ave. Admission $30. 858-3894 or https://fruitachamber.org Dec. 13 n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce Networking at Noon, noon to 1 p.m., Rockslide Brew Pub, 401 Main St. Admission $20 for chamber members, $25 for others. 242-3214 or https://gjchamber.org n Western Colorado Human Resource Association celebration of the group’s legacy, 3 to 5 p.m., hospitality suite at Suplizio Field, 1307 North Ave., Grand Junction.

Members free, others $20. www.wchra.org n Palisade Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Orchard View River, 3926 U.S. Highway 6 & 24. Advance tickets $5 for chamber members and $8 for others. Admission at the door $6 for members, $10 for others.

464-7458 or www.palisadecoco.com Dec. 14 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m., Alpine Bank, 125 N. Park Square. Admission $5 for chamber members, $10 for others. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 Dec. 15 n Free coffee club networking event, 9 to 10 a.m., FWorks, 325 E. Aspen Ave., Fruita. https://gjincubator.org or https://fruitachamber.org Dec. 19 n Presentation on cash flow budgeting for small business startups, noon to 1 p.m., Business Incubator Center. 243-5242 or https://gjincubator.org Upcoming n Welcome Thursday Friends networking group, noon to 1 p.m. Dec. 21, Qdoba, 401 Jurassic Ave., Fruita. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business networking luncheon, noon to 1 p.m. Jan. 4, Copper Club Brewing Co., 153 N. Mulberry St. Admission $15 for members, $25 for others. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce business after hours, 5:30 to 7 p.m. Jan. 11, Fruita Community Center, 324 N. Coulson St. Admission $5 for chamber members, $15 for others. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 n Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce community and coffee event, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Jan. 24, Adobe Creek National Golf Course clubhouse, 876 18 1/2 Road. Chamber members may attend at no charge. Others will pay $10. https://fruitachamber.org or 858-3894 n Energy Summit, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jan. 31, location to be announced.

Admission $65 for members of the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce, $75 for others. https://gjchamber.org or 242-3214 n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce trip to the Colorado Legislature in Denver, Feb. 22 and 23. https://gjchamber.org or 242-3214 n Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce annual banquet, 5:30 to 11:30 p.m.

March 1, Grand Junction Convention Center, 159 Main St. https://gjchamber.org or 242-3214 F

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