A look into the future

What does the future hold for Mesa County? Will the population grow? What about the labor force? Which industries will provide jobs? Local business owners and managers would love definitive answers to those questions, if only they could see a bit more clearly into their crystal balls. As it turns out, there’s a state official […]

Small business index moves higher, but still reflects concerns

A monthly measure of optimism among small business owners has increased, but still reflects concerns over the economy and difficulty filling job openings. The National Federation of Independent Business reported that its Small Business Optimism Index rose a point to 93.6 in April. The index remains below its historical average of 98, though. “Despite a […]

Study: User rates offer little correlation to quality

The belief online user ratings offer good indicators of product quality is largely an illusion, according to a new study conducted by researchers at the University of Colorado in Boulder. Still, most retailers provide user ratings on their Web sites and many consumers rely on the information when making purchase decisions, according to the results […]

Small business profiles offer state-by-state numbers

A variety of information about small business operations is available on a state-by-state basis as part of annual profiles compiled by the Office of Advocacy,  an independent office within the United States Small Business Administration. The profiles provide information on state and national economic growth, industries and jobs using data from government statistical agencies. The […]

Grants support West Slope fruit production

Two grants worth a total of $21,300 will support efforts to improve peach and sweet cherry production in Western Colorado. “We are glad to support two projects that will make a difference for fruit growers in Colorado,” said Glenda Mostek, marketing specialist for the Colorado Department of Agriculture. “Increasing the availability of Colorado fruits and […]

HopeWest VP wins nursing award

A woman who serves as vice president of clinical services at HopeWest based in Grand Junction has received the highest award bestowed on nurses in Colorado. Susie Bevan was among the six latest winners of Nightingale Awards presented at a banquet in Denver. Bevan received the award in the category recognizing leadership in an administrator, […]

Timberline Bank named SBA rural lender of the year

Timberline Bank, a community bank with three locations in Western Colorado, has been recognized by the U.S. Small Business Administration as Colorado Rural Lender of the Year. Representatives from Timberline Bank were presented the award during a ceremony at the History Colorado Center in Denver conducted as part of Small Business Week. The award recognizes […]