Index: Small business owners less upbeat

A monthly measure of optimism among small business owners has retreated on less upbeat expectations for economic conditions, hiring and sales. The National Federation of Independent Business reported that its Small Business Optimism Index fell 1.3 points to 93.9 in January. The index remains well below its historical average of 98. “Neither the tumultuous stock […]

Capitol event to celebrate Colorado ag industry

An annual celebration of Colorado agricultural producers and businesses is set for March 16 at the Capitol in Denver. The 40 agricultural organizations that make up the Colorado Ag Council will once again host Ag Day at the Capitol. Chefs will team up with state legislators and others in a cook-off competition featuring Colorado-grown foods. […]

CMU course to explore water issues

A three-part course planned for Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction will focus on water resources and offer information about climate, laws and planning for drought. The Hutchins Water Center at CMU has scheduled the course for 6 to 9 p.m. Feb. 18 and 25 and March 3 in the Meyer Ballroom of the University […]

HUD bidding process detailed

Homeowners interested in bidding on homes offered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development must keep several points in mind. During the first 15 days of the bidding period, only owner occupants are allowed to submit bids. Homeowners also must have a real estate broker with a number issued by HUD known as a […]

SBA brings training program to Colorado

Registration is under way for courses designed to help small business owners grow their ventures. The U.S. Small Business Administration expects to offer its Emerging Leaders training series in 50 cities across the country this year — including a course beginning in April in Englewood in Colorado. There’s no cost to participants, but interested business […]

Regional bank announces additions and promotions

A banking executive with more than 30 years of experience has been hired as regional market president of Bank of the San Juans. The bank also has hired three vice presidents, a real estate operations manager and mortgage loan originator as well as promoted three more people. Steve Irion will oversee the operations of Bank […]

Colorado ranks among most entrepreneur-friendly states

Colorado ranks among the most entrepreneur-friendly states in the latest analysis of how policies affect small businesses. Colorado ranks 11th in the 2016 Small Business Policy Index compiled by the Small Business & Entrepreneurship Council. “Make no mistake. Tax, regulatory, government spending and other governmental performance and cost measures matter state by state. They have […]

Chamber awards recognize community service

Community Hospital and Bud’s Signs are among the winners of annual awards presented by the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce to recognize community service. Community Hospital was honored as Business of the Year. Bud’s Signs was selected Small Business of the Year. In addition, the chamber named Greg Kampf, a lawyer who’s been involved […]

Forecast calls for continued growth in Colorado

Colorado will remain one of the fastest-growing states in 2016 with continued gains across a range of industry sectors. While there’s a possibility the United States economy could slip into recession, growing consumer spending combined with low oil prices and interest rates limit that likelihood, an economist and investment officer predict. Patricia Silverstein, chief economist […]

Internship confirms real estate a good career

When I met a commercial real estate agent earlier this year, I had no idea at the time the difference that informal conversation would have on my career. I’ve since joined in an internship program and hope to work in commercial real estate myself. It all started wen I met Dale Beede, a broker with […]