Analysis: Natural gas and wind affecting coal use

Decreasing natural gas prices and the increasing availability of wind energy have affected the coal industry more than regulation, according to a new economic analysis by researchers from the University of Colorado at Boulder and North Carolina State University. Daniel Kaffine, an associate professor in economics at CU who helped write the analysis, looked at […]

Small Business Optimism Index soars

A monthly measure of optimism among small business owners has climbed to its second highest level on more upbeat expectations for improving sales and economic conditions. The National Federation of Independent Business reported its Small Business Optimism Index rose three points to 107.8 in May. The reading is the second highest in the 45-year history […]

Cable wakeboarding park opens in Fruita

An entrepreneurial couple have opened a cable wakeboarding park in Fruita, adding to the attractions drawing outdoor recreation enthusiasts to the Grand Valley. Victor and Kodi Imondi opened Imondi Wake Zone at 1583 Cipolla Road, located just south of U.S. Highway 50 and 16 Road. The attraction uses cable systems to tow people on wakeboards […]

Bike rack manufacturing relocating to Grand Junction

A bicycle rack manufacturer plans to relocate its headquarters from Boulder to a business park under development in Grand Junction. RockyMounts plans to move into new facilities near the Riverfront at Las Colonias Park, the Grand Junction Economic Partnership announced during an economic summit. Robin Brown, executive director of GJEP, said RockyMounts joins other companies […]

Index reflects increasing consumer confidence

A monthly measure of consumer confidence continues to increase on more upbeat assessments of business and labor conditions. The Conference Board reported that its Consumer Confidence Index rose 2.4 points to 128 for May. A measure of current conditions climbed 4.2 points to 161.7, the highest reading since March 2001. A measure of expectations increased […]

Fruita pizzeria wins statewide award

The Hot Tomato Cafe & Pizzeria in Fruita has won an annual award recognizing achievements in lifestyle industries in Colorado. A popular eatery not only for visiting mountain bikers and other outdoor adventurers but also a diverse local clientele, the Hot Tomato won the 2018 Wright Award. Powderhorn Mountain Resort on the Grand Mesa east […]

Companies join in effort to create Mars simulations

Three Grand Junction companies will join in a project to map the desert around a simulated Mars research station and recreate the habitat in virtual reality. AeroScout, Georanger and SynaptixGames will participate in what’s billed as the Mars VR Project at the Mars Desert Research Station in Utah. The companies bring to the effort their […]

Soup offers specialists to mark 25th anniversary

Zoup will offer discounts on its soups and sandwiches as part of a celebration of the 20th anniversary of the founding of the fast casual restaurant chain. “We wouldn’t be where we are today without the continued loyalty of our customers. This celebration is all about expressing our gratitude for their ongoing support,” said Eric […]