Due to a lack of art shows in this area, local artists have joined together to have a permanent place to show and sell their art in St George. It is called "Central Park ART."

It will be run as a co-operative business where the artists show their work and talent. This will give the public a chance to talk to the artists and ask any questions about their art. Because the operation is a co-op, customers will buy directly from the local artist.

Glen Blakely from Dixie State College art department said there are co-ops like these all over Santa-Fe, Albuquerque, and Laguna. Glen also stated this will be ...
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The 10,000 square foot Shoppes at Santa Clara was recently purchased by Bonner Investments. The retail center features Anytime Fitness, Clear View Eye Care, Talent Sprouts & Opulence Salon. The Walter Group at NAI Utah Southern Region helped facilitate the transaction.

The Boulevard Center Building C was purchased by Hunt Leavitt Insurance. They will be moving in the near future to their new location on 150 N 400 E St. George. Jason Griffith, Meeja McAllister and The Walter Group with NAI Utah Southern Region helped facilitate the transaction....
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Industrial
For the first time since we started tracking the industrial market in Cedar City, we saw industrial vacancy rates increase. As with Washington County, this is a result of the number of general and subcontractors scaling down their operations as the residential markets try to absorb existing inventories.

Last quarter, we warned that the industrial leasing market was not strong and that the difficulties leasing industrial space there were not reflected by the vacancy rate. We also mentioned that asking lease rates of $.68...
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The retail market has continued to see the best absorption rates and lowest vacancy rates, both for stabilized properties and properties built in the past 12 months. Barnes & Noble, In-N-Out, and Buffalo's Café were the major credit expansions in the area.

El Pollo Loco and Walgreen's remain on the horizon for the remainder of the year, with Wal-Mart looming for 2009 in Hurricane. NAI recently leased a 15,000 square foot space with Down East Outfitters at the Cotton Mill Center (Kohl's) and construction will commence shortly for this and two other tenants...
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Two St. George companies are among 83 Utah businesses named by Inc Magazine in its Inc 5000 list of the fastest growing firms in the country.

Cabinet and housing fixture manufacturer Riverwoods Mill made the list, as did MC Trucklines, freight hauler and logistics provider.

The Inc. 5000 list ranks companies according to percentage revenue growth from 2004 through 2007. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by the first week of 2004, and therefore able to show four full calendar years of sales.

They have to be U.S.-based, privately ...
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PROVO - Raser Technologies, Inc., an environmentally focused technology licensing and development company, has announced the company has signed three new lease agreements covering more than 20,000 acres of geothermal, surface and other rights near its existing Thermo resource in Beaver County, Utah.

The signing of these three leases increases Raser's total holdings in the Thermo area to over 50,000 acres. Raser recently released the results of a report prepared by the prominent geothermal consulting firm, GeothermEx Inc., which concluded that the Thermo resource could potentially sustain over...
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Several southern Utah entities are among 52 statewide that will get a total of more than $2.3 million to promote local tourism.

The St. George Area Convention and Visitors Bureau will get $150,000, and the Utah Shakespearean Festival will receive $112,183.

Cedar City/Brian Head Tourism will get $55,000, while the Tuacahn Center for the Arts will receive $50,000, and the city of Springdale will get $7,000.

The Utah Board of Tourism Development this week approved the 52 applications for funding as part of the state's cooperative marketing program. The board had received 60 applications...
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ST. GEORGE - Home prices in St. George decreased during the month of August over the same period last year, according to the First American CoreLogic LoanPerformance Home Price Index (HPI).

LoanPerformance HPI, which tracks price trends for repeat home sales, indicates that home prices for the St. George area fell by 3.57 percent during August 2008 compared to August 2007. The current median price of a home in St. George is $235,000.

Nationally, home prices fell by 7.83 percent according to LoanPerformance, with a median price of $203,900.

Zip code 84780 topped the list for the highest ...
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ST. GEORGE – Home prices in this part southwest Utah continue their decline, according to a recently released home price index.

The Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight said last week that overall home prices fell 3.1 percent in the first quarter of 2008 compared with last year.

The St. George area followed that trend....
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ST. GEORGE - The Best Western Abbey Inn in St. George was named Best of the Best in Customer Care at Best Western International's annual North American Convention recently in Honolulu. The hotel was presented with the award in front of more than 2,000 industry peers.

This select honor is bestowed upon those member properties that demonstrate and best exemplify exceptional levels of service and care. The hotels must also meet design standards and other membership requirements to qualify.

The Best Western Abbey Inn was one of only 48 hotels out of more than 2,400 properties in the U.S. and ...
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ST. GEORGE - Coldwell Banker Premier co-owner Sam Sampson has been selected 2008 "Realtor of The Year" for the state of Utah. In order to award the honor, the five previous realtors who have held the title, along with a chairman of the selection committee, convene to select the new winner.

When asked about the selection, committee chairman Gary Hancock called Sampson a "most outstanding realtor in the Utah Association of Realtors," and said Sampson's commitment to his clients' needs and his willingness to stay involved in the business and the community has led to his great success.

Hancock also mentioned that ...
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MILFORD, Utah - Copper King Mining Corporation, an ore mining, processing, and exploration company located here, recently terminated its relationship with advertising agency Alexander Lindale, LLC, and its principal, Wilf Blum, and began managing its own corporate advertising and public relations, effective May 1.

Additionally, company management is currently negotiating with several independent third parties to manage its stock and relations with the investment community. At the present time less than 60 million shares of the company’s total 2.5 billion authorized shares of common stock are in the public float....
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ST. GEORGE – A local paralegal has been named Distinguished Paralegal of the Year by the Paralegal Division of the Utah State Bar in association with the Legal Assistant Association of Utah.

Deborah Calegory, a paralegal with the law firm of Durham Jones & Pinegar was recently recognized at an annual Paralegal Day luncheon in Salt Lake City.

The career award honors a Utah paralegal who has, by ethical and personal conduct, commitment, and activities, exemplified for fellow paralegals and the attorneys with whom they work the epitome of professionalism....
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Leasing in the office market has been confined to smaller spaces over the past two quarters. Space available for sublease is up significantly and inventory continues to come on the market. Vacancy rates are up on stabilized properties as well as properties constructed in the past 12 months.

Office construction has slowed as only two new buildings were completed in the second quarter. Office construction has also dropped to 66,000 square feet from 106,000 square feet last quarter. On the other hand, the new...
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ST. GEORGE - Angie Mittleberger was recently honored as the "Utah Region's Cultural Icon" for Keller Williams Realty. As "Utah Region's Cultural Icon", Mittleberger was recognized at the recent national Keller Williams Realty Awards Gala in Texas by Gary Keller and Mo Anderson.

"Angie is the mother of our office in the best sense of the word," says Steve Mangelson, Team Leader. "She is very nurturing, but she carries a velvet hammer. She stands for something and expects those around her to stand for something as well. I recognized Angie as a leader when at our...
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Restaurant chain Golden Corral is touting a significant advancement in business intelligence resulting from the introduction of software produced by a southern Utah developer.

Golden Corral executives now have access to intelligent data that is driving improved operational execution and elevated brand protection, thanks to Steton's software.

"The ability for us to anticipate and solve food quality, customer service problems, and food safety has dramatically improved," said Bob McDevitt, Senior Vice President of Franchising for Golden Corral.

"We had plenty of data, we just didn't have...
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Starbucks Corp. last week named all 600 stores, including four in Utah, the company plans to close in a bid to boost business and weed out unprofitable locations.

The Utah stores that will close are located in Ogden, Riverton, Cottonwood Heights, and Syracuse. The company did not provide closure dates for the Utah locations.

Earlier this month the giant coffee seller announced a plan to close 600 stores, but did not reveal the stores' locations.

A complete list of the stores to close is available at...
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ST. GEORGE, UT - Dr. Grant L. Carter, Dr. Gayle M. Carter and Dr. Benjamin G. Carter recently announced the Grand Opening of their new practice, Southern Utah Dermatology and Surgical Arts.  SUDSA will offer comprehensive Dermatology services in addition to their already extensive Cosmetic Surgery and Gynecology services. 

The new practice will be headed by Dr. Grant L. Carter, who is certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Carter has been practicing in Southern Utah since 1982 when he founded the Southern Utah Women’s Health Center. He is currently the Director of Women's and Children's Services at Dixie Regional Medical Center.  Well known in the Southern Utah area, he pioneered laser surgery locally and has been certified in the procedure since 1989. Additionally, Dr. Grant Carter is a Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and the only surgeon in Southern Utah certified to perform the...
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Tax deferred exchanges have been part of the U.S. Tax Code since 1921. Since that time, the government has approved certain methods to structure exchange transactions that are so called "safe harbors." For example, in 1991 the U.S. Treasury issued final regulations that provided important guidance on the structure of delayed exchanges including the 45 day identification period and 180 day exchange period time lines and certain other procedural requirements necessary to complete a tax deferred exchange safely.

On September 15, 2000, the Internal Revenue Service released Revenue Procedure 2000-37 that provided guidelines for structuring reverse exchanges (a transaction in which replacement property is acquired by an accommodating party before the sale of the relinquished property and held as replacement property to complete the exchange). A replacement property may be acquired and...
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In November of 2008, LandAmerica 1031 Exchange Services, Inc. ("LES") filed for bankruptcy protection in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. LES was a qualified intermediary that facilitated tax deferred exchanges under Internal Revenue Code §1031. When it ceased operations, it was holding illiquid auction rate securities and was unable to advance funds to close replacement property acquisitions for its exchange customers. 

On April 15, 2009, the Court ruled on a motion for summary judgment in a representative case filed by an LES exchange customer, Millard Refrigerated Services, Inc. ("Millard"). By its action, Millard sought to...
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To help you more clearly understand how sales works and why competition even exists, let's review the analogy of the Plum Tree. It's very simple but true to form. The Plums on a tree represent your prospects. Some of the Plums are ripe, but most of them still need a little bit (or a lot) of nurturing on the tree. The ripe ones are easy. These are prospects you call on with an immediate need and you happen to be there and you fortunately get a sale. This is not where you get rich. Your potential wealth lies in the green ones still on the tree.

Your average salesperson will pick all the...
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St. George, UT.- Until recently the war on tamarisk in Washington County was slow going as City and contracted crews mowed their way through densely populated tamarisk stands along the riverways with large equipment only to see the deciduous shrub sprout up again three weeks later. This past summer changed all that as new recruits were introduced into Southern Utah in a tactical attempt to combat the tamarisk naturally. Since the introduction of the salt cedar beetle in 2006 along the Virgin River, the City of St. George has fielded a number of calls from residents with questions about the beetle and its characteristics.

The effects of the ...
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Editors Note: With this issue the Mainstreet Business Journal begins serializing Startin' Out in Dixie, tales told by Wes Atkin, who was born in 1913, about growing up in St. George during the early years of the 20th century.

Sand town, part of St George, and my family made up my universe, for I knew of nothing else. One block east and one block south put me at Brigham Young's home and another block south took me to Woodward School and the Tabernacle. Small boy, small town, small world.

Most of my Poppa's time was spent with his sheep 60 miles south on the Arizona Strip. When he was sorely in need of supplies he drove his team and wagon to town, a trip that took thre...
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ST. GEORGE, UTAH - Saturn of St. George is now Findlay Volkswagen St. George. The dealership has undergone a franchise change while its existing staff remains intact.

“Although the Saturn brand name will be removed from the building, all the existing staff will remain on payroll as Findlay Volkswagen employees instead,” said dealership General Manager, Dave Gourley. “We’re very enthusiastic about bringing the Volkswagen brand to...
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Business owners and managers can save substantial money and energy with little to no investment, says Jack Taylor, Power Director for the City of Santa Clara.

Following is a list of seven simple ways businesses can save energy, and encourage their employees do the...
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St. George, Utah - May, 2009 -A new concept in business support is helping small businesses and entrepreneurs in southern Utah gain an edge in today's tough business climate. Business hosting, a service that evolved out of the shared office concept of the 1990s, has utilized rapid advances in technology to develop a virtual, all-inclusive front office for small businesses.

Business hosting has woven together services that formerly required separate and often large financial commitments from business owners-call center services, live answering services, business address and phone numbers, live or automated call routing, secretarial services and more-and made them centralized, easy ...
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WASHINGTON - Small businesses seeking to expand will be able to refinance existing loans used to purchase real estate and other fixed assets as a result of permanent changes to the U.S. Small Business Administration's 504 Certified Development Company loan program.  The changes were authorized in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

The permanent changes will allow small businesses to restructure eligible debt to help improve their cash flow which, in turn, will enhance their viability and support growth and job creation. The 504 loan program can be used to purchase business real estate or fixed assets, such as heavy equipment or machinery, and expand current development projects. 

"This is one more piece of the Recovery Act that is going to have a ...
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UTAH - In fiscal year 2008, which ended September 30^th, small businesses in the Utah District of the U.S. Small Business Administration received SBA approval for 3,075 loans for $420.8 million.  This includes loans from SBA's 7(a) and CDC/504 loan programs through its participating lenders and certified development companies.  The Utah District had an increase of 2.8% over last year's record loan number of 2990, while other parts of the country experienced 20% to 30% declines.

"To think that only the Los Angeles, New York, and Chicago district offices did more SBA loans than the Utah District Office is extraordinary," stated Stan Nakano, SBA District Director ...
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WASHINGTON, DC - Regulations published this week by the U.S. Small Business Administration will create a secondary market guarantee program to provide greater liquidity for lenders and expand access to capital for small businesses.

Funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the new program would encourage sales into the secondary market of the "first mortgage" portion of small business financing made possible through the SBA's 504 Certified Development Company (CDC) program. As a result of the economic recession and the disruption in the credit markets, there has been a significant decline in...
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WASHINGTON, DC - More small businesses will be eligible for U.S. Small Business Administration-backed loans, meaning greater access to much-needed capital in this tough economy, as a result of a temporary alternate size standard for the agency's largest lending program.

SBA's alternate size standard for its 7(a) loan program will go into effect early next week through Sept. 30, 2010. As a result of the temporary change, more than 70,000 additional small businesses - including auto and RV dealerships, auto industry suppliers and others - could be eligible to apply for SBA 7(a) loan.

"This is just one more step we are taking to make sure small businesses have access to...
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WASHINGTON - Effective today, small businesses that would otherwise have difficulty securing private equity or venture capital may find funding easier to get as a result of changes made as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to the U.S. Small Business Administration's Small Business Investment Company program.

"The Recovery Act expands SBA's venture capital program to increase the pool of investment funding available to the Small Business Investment Companies licensed by SBA," said SBA Administrator Karen G. Mills.  "We believe those companies will be better equipped by these changes to help sustain and grow small businesses for their next important growth steps."

SBICs are privately owned and managed venture capital firms which are licensed and regulated by SBA. SBICs use a combination of funds raised from private sources and money raised through the use of SBA guarantees to make equity and mezzanine capital investments in small businesses. There are approximately 338 SBICs with $17.4 billion in capital under management.

The changes made as part of the Recovery Act are:

1. The Recovery Act makes SBICs eligible for greater SBA guaranteed funding and requires SBICs to invest 25 percent of their investment dollars into "smaller" businesses.  Also, the amount of funding an SBIC may invest in a single smal...
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WASHINGTON - SBA's Business Gateway Program announced recently the launch of a new Web initiative - http://Community.Business.gov - the first government-sponsored online community built specifically for small businesses.  

The objective of the Business.gov Community supports the White House's mission to create a transparent and connected democracy, and aims to provide small business owners, bloggers, and the government with a place to discuss and share information about starting and running a successful business.
 
An extension of Business.gov, the Business.gov Community combines discussion forums, blogs, an...
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WASHINGTON - SBA's Business Gateway Program announced recently the launch of a new Web initiative - http://Community.Business.gov - the first government-sponsored online community built specifically for small businesses.  

The objective of the Business.gov Community supports the White House's mission to create a transparent and connected democracy, and aims to provide small business owners, bloggers, and the government with a place to discuss and share information about starting and running a successful business.
 
An extension of Business.gov, the Business.gov Community combines discussion forums, blogs, an...
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WASHINGTON - Small businesses suffering financial hardship as a result of the slow economy may be eligible to receive temporary relief to keep their doors open and get their cash flow back on track through to a new loan program announced today by SBA Administrator Karen G. Mills.

Beginning on June 15, SBA will start guaranteeing America's Recovery Capital (ARC) loans. ARC loans are deferred-payment loans of up to $35,000 available to established, viable, for-profit small businesses that need short-term help to make their principal and interest payments on existing qualifying debt. ARC loans are interest-free to the borrower, 100 percent guaranteed by the SBA, and ...
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WASHINGTON - Changes under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to U.S. Small Business Administration loan programs led to a rebound in SBA-backed loans for small businesses and greater access to much-needed capital.

Since the Recovery Act was signed on Feb. 17, SBA has supported more than $11.3 billion in lending to small businesses through its two largest loan programs and seen its average weekly dollar volume increase by more than 60 percent in comparison to the weeks before the Recovery Act.  Additionally, the average number of loans approved per week has increased by more than 50 percent. The dollar volume for September 2009 ($1.9 Billion) was the highest single-month total since August 2007.

"These numbers, along with our conversations with lenders and small business owners around the country, show that the Recovery Act hit the mark," SBA Administrator Karen Mills said. "The Recovery Act was critical to unlocking the market and as a result we've helped put billions of dollars of much needed capital in the hands of small business owners during this tough economic time, and brought more than 1,200 lenders back into SBA's loan programs.  With half the nation's workforce either working for or owning a small business, these dollars played a critical role in driving economic recovery across the...
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Washington, DC. - The U.S. Small Business Administration will offer government guaranteed loans to finance inventory for eligible auto, recreational vehicle, boat and other dealerships under a new pilot program announced today by SBA Administrator Karen Mills.

Dealer Floor Plan (DFP) financing will be available beginning July 1, according to Mills.  She announced the new program during a visit to Kokomo, Ind., with Dr. Ed Montgomery, President Barack Obama's Director of Recovery for Auto Communities and Workers.

"Countless small businesses, including dealerships, across the country are facing significant challenges as a result of the ...
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Veterans Day, and National Veterans Awareness Week November 9-15, is the perfect time to share important information with veterans who are considering starting or expanding a small business, or Reservists and National Guard members who have been suddenly called up to serve. No group of Americans is more deserving of our help and respect.

The U.S. Small Business Administration's Patriot Express Loan Initiative is a loan product designed to help America's military heroes achieve their small business goals. In less than a year and a half, this unique initiative has produced nearly 2,400 loans for a total of almost...
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WASHINGTON, DC - The U.S. Small Business Administration this week announced proposals aimed at strengthening opportunities for disadvantaged small businesses to benefit from its 8(a) Business Development program. 

The proposed 8(a) regulation changes are the result of the first comprehensive review of the 8(a) program in a number of years and were published recently in the...
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WASHINGTON - Highlighting the experiences of successful entrepreneurs, the U.S. Small Business Administration and Dell today launched an online video series offering tools and strategies to help small business owners rebound from the economic recession and put themselves in a position to expand and create jobs.

Strategies for Growth: Advice for Expanding Your Business includes real-world insight, solutions and advice from...
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WASHINGTON - In just two year's time, the U.S. Small Business Administration's Patriot Express Pilot Loan Initiative has supported more than $315 million in loans to more than 3,750 veterans and their spouses who are using the SBA-guaranteed funds to establish and expand their small businesses.  As a result of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which raised loan guarantees to 90 percent, and eliminated fees temporarily, the number of Patriot Express loans increased to record levels in April and May of 2009.
 
Patriot Express, launched June 28, 2007, builds on the more than $1 billion in loans SBA guarantees annually for veteran-owned businesses, and the counseling assistance and procurement support it provides each year to more than 200,000 veterans, service-disabled veterans and ...
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The U.S. Small Business Administration's Utah District Office has launched its first-ever Small Business Economic Hotline. The purpose of this hotline is to give small business owners a single phone number they can call to see what SBA programs may assist them during these uncertain times.

Calls to this phone number will be returned within the hour during business hours by SBA staff in Utah. The phone number is 801-524-3204.

"Small businesses across the country have raised concerns about ways they can better survive given today's economic situation. In Utah, we want to make sure that our ...
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CEDAR CITY, UTAH - State Bank of Southern Utah’s Board of Directors recently named Eric Jon Schmutz to replace Ronald W. Heaton as the President and Chief Executive Officer of State Bank of Southern Utah.   Mr. Heaton will retire this summer to serve as a Mission President for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Eric Schmutz is married to...
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MILFORD, UTAH - Dalaki Livingston, a graduate of Milford High School, will be the recipient of a one-time scholarship of $3,000 through the First Wind Scholars program

The scholarship is part of the...
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The Southern Utah Home Builders Association will hold its annual Scholarship Golf Tournament June 6 at Coral Canyon Golf Course. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Call Kelly or John at SUHBA (435) 674-1400 to become a sponsor or for more information.

ST. GEORGE, UTAH - If you have dreams of someday owning your own business, or if you're already an entrepreneur and want to sharpen your management skills, keep an eye on this column. Here, you'll find concise answers to common small business questions, tips on finding new customers and keeping old ones happy, and insights into business-related issues you may never have thought of, but should.

This column is where you will find "Ask SCORE," a series of informative columns provided by SCORE, "Counselors to America's Small Business." SCORE is a nonprofit association dedicated to the success of small business in America. The "Ask SCORE" columns address a wide range of business topics and provide insights into how to address particular business situations or issues. The columns also provide a sample of the kind of business advice an entrepreneur can expect from...
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If you have dreams of someday owning your own business, or if you're already an entrepreneur and want to sharpen your management skills, keep an eye on this space. Here, you'll find concise answers to common small business questions, tips on finding new customers and keeping old ones happy, and insights into business-related issues you may never have thought of, but should. 

This space is where you will find "Ask SCORE," a series of informative columns provided by SCORE, "Counselors to America's Small Business." SCORE is a nonprofit association dedicated to the success of small business in America. The "Ask SCORE" columns address a wide range of business topics and...
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In a 5-4 vote, the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) has ruled that white firefighters in New Haven, Connecticut, were subjected to reverse discrimination when the City threw out the results of a promotion test because no black firefighters scored at a level where they would qualify for promotion. 

The Court's decision acknowledged the City was in a "damned-if-you-do-and-damned-if-you-don't" situation with the test results, facing lawsuits from either side, but the Court nonetheless concluded, "Fear of litigation alone cannot justify the City's reliance on race to the detriment of individuals who passed the examinations and qualified for the promotions." 

As a result of this case, employers should carefully examine the circumstances in which they use tests for employment purposes and make darn sure they are...
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ST. GEORGE, UTAH - The winners of the 23rd-annual Robert N. and Peggy Sears Dixie Invitational Art Show were announced Friday night at the show's premiere gala banquet at the Dolores Dore’ Eccles Fine Arts Center on the Dixie State College campus. In all, artists received awards in nine medium categories, along with “Best of Show” Purchase Prize and “Best in Show” honors.

This year’s Best of Show Purchase Prize was awarded to Ian Ramsay from Murray, Utah, for his watercolor painting “Farm in Winter, Bellvue, Idaho.” In addition, this year’s Invitational awarded its third-ever Best in Show Prize, which was given to...
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ST. GEORGE, UTAH - San Francisco based See's Candies recently announced the grand opening of a new shop in St. George, Utah. The store, located at the Red Cliffs Mall, 1770 East Red Cliffs Drive, will offer a full range of traditional favorites from See's Candies.

During the grand opening last Friday, October 9, See's gave away free samples. Thereafter, regular shop hours for See's Candies in St. George will be Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from Noon to 5 pm.  The shop can be reached directly at 435-627-8828.

Since 1921, See's Candies has been delivering chocolates and candies to more than 200 shops throughout the U.S. See's acquires raw ingredients from...
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Many companies have made money by promoting their products online via large online auction pages, or classified ad web sites. Ebay has millions of registered users as does Amazon.com, and Craigslist, just to name a few.

Ebay is running a...
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WASHINGTON - Legislation by Sens. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah), John Cornyn (R-Texas) and Mark Pryor (D-Ark.) to prevent government bureaucrats from overstepping common sense and their proper bounds (under the guise of safety) has cleared the Senate.
 
Adopted as part of the Department of Homeland Security appropriations bill (H.R. 2892), the amendment by Hatch, Cornyn and Pryor clarifies the definition of what types of knives can be classified as switchblades.  It is a legislative response to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) proposal that would have, in effect, reclassified most pocketknives and pocket tools as switchblades.
 
 "Without this amendment, there is a real danger that 80 percent of the pocketknives sold in the U.S. could be classified as illegal switchblades, which would hurt knife and tool manufacturers across the nation" Hatch said following the Senate's vote late Thursday. "The unintended consequences of the CBP's definition could be that...
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ST. GEORGE, UTAH - United States Senator Bob Bennett (R-Utah) will be visiting Dixie State College of Utah in St. George this Tuesday, Jan. 12, and Wednesday, Jan. 13, for three campus events. Below are brief synopses of Senator Bennett’s visit to the campus.

First, Senator Bennett will be addressing DSC College Republicans Club in the...
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WASHINGTONΒ - Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) today called on President Obama to protect America's leadership in plug-in hybrid technology as his administration moves forward to restructure the nation's ailing auto industry.

Hatch's remarks came as he joined auto industry entrepreneurs and officials in Upper Senate Park to unveil the 100 mpg electric Hummer H3, which has been developed by Raser Technologies in cooperation with FEV and General Motors.

"As you can see, with American ingenuity, we do stand ready to lead the world in the electrification of the transportation sector, not only for passenger vehicles, but for trucks and SUVs," Hatch said. "However, just as we are on ...
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Utah, April, 2009 - Older drivers pose more of a threat to themselves than to others on the road, and the risk rises dramatically with age, according to a new analysis by safety advocate AAA.

The analysis covers crash data on fatal crashes from 1999 to 2003. The study measured risk on a per-driver, per-trip, and per-mile basis. AAA researchers found drivers ages 85 and older are more likely to die in a crash than any other age group, although without increased risk of killing other motorists.

"Studies show that an older driver's increased fragility is the key factor in higher death rates," said Rolayne Fairclough, AAA Utah spokesperson. "The finding that older drivers have...
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SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - People age 65 and older represent the fastest growing segment of the country’s population, which means the ability of a senior to drive safely is an issue for millions of Americans. Also, given age-related frailties, seniors have the highest crash death rate per mile of everyone except teenagers, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

During Older Driver Safety Awareness Week...
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ST. GEORGE - Nationwide Debt Services, Inc. of St. George is one of 28 new members for the second quarter of 2008 of The Association of Settlement Companies, the national watchdog organization for self-regulating the debt settlement industry.

"By joining TASC, companies show a commitment to providing the highest level of customer service," said Robby Birnbaum, executive board member of TASC and partner at Greenspoon Marder, P.A.

"TASC members agree to follow our bylaws dictating elite business practices and ethics and can assure consumers that they will be...
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1. "I think you’re depressed…shouldn’t you see somebody?"

2. "You’re going to take five weeks off to ‘bond’? I don’t think so.”

3. "You’re giving two weeks’ notice? Why don’t we just make today you’re last day. You’re fired!”

4. "Are you married, and what are your plans for a family?"

5. "Oh, what a lovely accent – where are you from?”

6. "Do you really want to transfer to a job that has so much travel with those young children?”

7. "You’re fired, and I don’t have to give you any reason because employment is ‘at will’.”
   

To this list, I would add one more, paraphrased from an old Beatles song - “I wanna hold your hand" (or other body part).

Peter's Principle
In every hierarchy, each employee tends to rise to the level of his incompetence.

Pudder's Law
Anything that begins well will end badly. (Note: The converse of Pudder's law is not true.)

Putt's Law
Technology is dominated by two types of people: Those who understand what they do not manage, and those who manage what they do not understand.

Putts-Brooks Law
Adding manpower to a late technology project only makes it later.

Quigley's Law
Whoever has any authority over you, no matter how small, will attempt to exercise it.

Ralph's Observation
It is a mistake to let any mechanical object realize that you are ...
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How many of you wonderful HR folks smile but then quickly turn the other way and grimace when you hear/learn/notice that your CEO is politely skipping out on the mandatory EEO and sexual harassment training which is mandatory for everyone else?  It is an understandable approach, but you may want to rethink it.  If there was any doubt before, there cannot be doubt any more, that sexual harassment allegations can reach right up into the top echelons of the executive washroom and the...
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• Our homes are a sanctuary from the world. Wouldn’t it be great if our workplace was as well?  ----  Matt Eschler

Sexual Harassment is a topic that is  uncomfortable for many people to discuss. You will find a range of responses from people when you initiate a discussion about workplace sexual harassment. Some will turn the topic into something to joke about. They will say things like "If I can choose who is doing the harassing", or "everyone ought to be harassed sexually once in their life!" we know these comments are how they are hiding from a subject that is embarrassing for them, sen...
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Here are three interesting news items regarding sexual harassment laws.  First, a recent poll from the national Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) indicates that sexual harassment at work still occurs, but is not “on the rise.”  SHRM members randomly polled reported there was no change in the number of sexual harassment claims with which they are dealing. 

However, while overall num...
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Members of Congress continue to introduce employment legislation at what seems a record pace.  Among them is the Employment Non‑Discrimination Act of 2009 (ENDA) (H.R. 2981), which would prohibit employment discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, defined to be identity without regard to gender at birth. 

The bill would also prohibit discrimination against an employee/applicant based on the real or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity of a person with whom that employee or applicant associates.  The bill was reintroduced in the House with almost 120...
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A national debate is intensifying about whether or not sexual orientation should be added to the list of classifications protected by federal law from employment discrimination.

A bill (H.R. 3685) prohibiting discrimination based on such a classification is slowly making its way through Congress. The House has passed the bill and it awaits action in the Senate, but the Senate has not announced a schedule for considering it.

The bill got a recent boost when national SHRM released a statement supporting it. Pres. Bush has not stated a position on the pending bill. However, many state laws...
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ST. GEORGE - Michelle McCall has been named an associate broker for River Realty.

She originally joined the firm in 1996 and received her real estate license in 1998. She has served as a volunteer and mentor on the membership committee for the Southern Utah Home Builders Association.

She has worked with investors, builders, developers, buyers and sellers in general real estate. Her work with developers focuses on total-marketing and selling programs, which involves the creation of marketing materials, consulting, local market research and assembling and managing on-site sales teams....
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ST. GEORGE - Fire destroyed a popular St. George restaurant last week. The fire burned the Taqueria Santa Cruz in the 800 block of east St. George Boulevard.

Fire officials said the blaze started outside the building in some weeds or trash, and spread quickly to the buildings eaves and then into the attic.

Employees and customers inside the restaurant when the fire started were able to escape safely. No one was injured and nearby businesses were not damaged.

According to witnesses, the restaurant's workers tried to fight the blaze with buckets of water and a fire extinguisher, but were...
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The Mint Leasing Inc. has completed its merger with St. George-based Legacy Communications Corp. and emerged as a public company.

The new company will be called The Mint Leasing Inc., and as a result of a reverse stock split will trade on the over-the-counter bulletin board under the symbol "MLES."

With 25 employees, Houston-based The Mint Leasing leases automobiles and fleet vehicles throughout the U.S. Most of its customers are located in Texas and six other states in the southeastern U.S.

Legacy Communications (OTC: LGCC) is...
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ST. GEORGE - The Glass Doctor of St. George has earned its accreditation renewal by the Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standards (AGRSS) Council.

By registering with AGRSS, the Glass Doctor of St. George franchise has agreed to comply with the only nationwide standard for windshield replacement.

"The windshield is an integral part of the structural integrity of any vehicle," Dale Watkins of Glass Doctor of St. George said. "People don't realize how much of a safety concern proper windshield replacement can be."

Consumers often think of all automotive parts in the same way, but the windshield is very different from...
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ST. GEORGE - Shade Clothing has opened its doors in St. George, the company's fourth retail location in Utah. The new store is located at 250 N. Red Cliffs Drive in the Outlet Mall.

"The opening of this Shade store is the result of a growing demand for our products in this area," said Chelsea Rippy, CEO and founder of Shade Clothing. "We are thrilled to be able to offer our complete product line to our southern Utah customers and promise to continue providing a modest product that stays ahead of the fashion curve."

Shade will be located in a temporary ...
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Cedar City, UT-The Guild of the Utah Shakespearean Festival recently donated $15,000 to the Festival in memory of Barbara Gaddie Adams, the late wife of Festival founder, Fred C. Adams. A check was presented to Fred C. Adams and Festival Executive Director R. Scott Phillips at the Guild's annual luncheon, held on December 8 at the Garden House in Cedar City, Utah.

"I am so touched that the Guild decided to pay tribute to Barbara in this way," said Adams. "It is such a neat thing, especially since Barbara used to be the Guild president."

...
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Volume 10, Issue 4, 2007-03-19 Shakespearean Festival Names Marketing Director Veteran staffer gets promoted

CEDAR CITY Ò€’ The Utah Shakespearean Festival recently announced the promotion of Kami Terry to the position of marketing director. Terry has been at the festival for the past five years as marketing manager. Terry's duties will include market research, advertising placement, group sales, and supervision of the festival's guest services and ticket office personnel and processes. In addition she will work with the new media and public relations director when he or she comes on board in producing, implementing, and constantly evaluating the Festival's marketing and public relations plan. “In my five years here, I have developed a deep ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 10, 2008-03-18 Shakespearean Festival Prepares for 2008 Season

CEDAR CITY - Although opening night is still months away, preparations for the 2008 season of the Utah Shakespearean Festival are already in full swing. Casting is now complete and a complete cast list is posted at the festival's Web site www.bard.org. Directors and designers for each play, including Othello, Two Gentlemen of Verona, The Taming of The Shrew, Cyrano de Bergerac, Fiddler on the Roof, and The School For Wives met in Cedar City during the first week of March for the annual design and production conference.      They have been at work for months now to get their visions to this point - where ideas about costumes, set design, music and lighting ar... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 2, 2007-02-19 Shakespearean Festival Receives Questar Grant By Bruce C. Lee

CEDAR CITY - The Utah Shakespearean Festival was the recent recipient of a $34,700 grant from Questar Corporation and its subsidiary, Questar Gas Company. The entire amount is from interest and dividends earned on an endowment fund held by the Questar Corporation Arts Foundation in behalf of the festival. Questar Vice President of Operations Ronald Jibson and Southwest Operations Manager GaeLynn Froyd presented the gift to Festival Director R. Scott Phillips. “Few people know that the Randall L. Jones Theatre was the first public building to be designed to utilize natural gas when Questar came to southern Utah in the late 80s,” said Froyd. “W... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 13, 2009-04-13 Shared Advertising Helps! Byron Theurer

Co-promotion may be an option if you can split your ad costs with another local business serving your same target audience. Those costs could include sponsorships, ads, newsletters, fliers and bill stuffers. You may identify one or more vendors who are willing to share the cost of a trade show booth as well as the printed materials and staffing required for the booth.  With cooperative advertising (also known as co-op advertising), two or more parties are sharing certain ad costs. This arrangement may take the form of an incentive program, with manufacturers contributing dollars to the ad campaigns of distributors or retailers to encourage the promotion of... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 4, 2009-02-02 Sharply Higher Jobless Rates Tied to Recession By Jeff Thredgold Economic Consultant to Zions Bank

HIGHLIGHTS * The Zions Bank Small Business Index for Utah was 69.5 in December 2008, down from a revised 73.7 in November 2008 * Utah's unemployment rate was estimated at 3.7% in the latest month, up from the prior month's 3.5% rate. Total Utah employment is down an estimated 11,500 jobs during the past 12 months  * Washington County payrolls declined by... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 30, 2009-10-05 Shelline Named KCSG Television General Manager By Morgan Skinner

ST. GEORGE, UTAH - Southwest Media, LLC recently announced a management change at KCSG Television to better achieve the financial objectives of the company.   The announcement by the Stephen Wade Management Group, said veteran broadcaster Don Shelline has been named the General Manager for Southwest Media's KCSG Television, Channel 14, Cedar City-St. George, Utah. Shelline is a former Simmons Media broadcast group manager and the owner of... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 3, 2008-01-22 Shirley to Receive Lifetime Achievement Award

CEDAR CITY - Former Cedar City mayor and educator Harold Shirley will be honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2008 Cedar City Area Chamber of Commerce Awards and Installation Banquet. The event is scheduled for Feb. 7, from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Southern Utah University Sharwan Smith Center Ballroom. Shirley is a Texas native who has lived in Cedar City for more than 35 years. He taught at Cedar City High School for many years and served as the city's mayor for 12 years. Shirley was awarded an honorary doctorate in 2005 from Southern Utah University, and received a distinguished service award from the university in 2002. ... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 9, 2009-03-16 Shop Where You Live March is `Love Your Independent Bookstore Month` By Michael Denning

Officially, March is "Love Your Independent Bookstore Month". Spring is in the air, change is abound and people are searching to simplify, and create a more sustainable lifestyle.   What better time to remember the merchant.  What better time to  buy local and participate in your local community.   Shop at independently owned businesses, seek out local musicians and hit the local farmers market. We all often hear, or even ourselves state that we support local independent businesses, (florists, mechanics whatever) and then go buy at the big box stores? Speaking of the `Indepentent Bookstore Month`, there are several in our... Read More

Volume 7, Issue 4, 2004-02-23 Should Government Compete With Private Enterprise? Technically Twisted Commentaries By Jason Eyre

This column in the past has not been very political, but a technical issue has surfaced in the State Senate brought forth by our own Senator Bill Hickman. Senator Hickman introduced legislation aimed at crippling the UTOPIA project. I am disappointed with the job the UTOPIA advocates have done with educating all citizens of our state, but I do not feel that the Legislature is the correct forum for destroying the progress that UTOPIA promises. First what is UTOPIA? UTOPIA is a project designed to build out Fiber-Optic based networks in several communities throughout Utah. This project would not just build out fiber along major streets and throughways like the private project being ... Read More

Volume 13, Issue 23, 2010-07-29 Should I choose a `social` marketing niche? By Brad Owen

Internet marketing has changed dramatically within the last five years. There are so many choices of where to spend your time and money when marketing on the internet. Between social marketing, keeping up with your online reputation, there is not much left over for... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 4, 2009-02-02 Should I Invest In The Current Market? fix this subhead issue!!! By Morris Peacock

St. George, UT - With stock market performance plummeting, it can be easy to get discouraged about investing. There are, however, a few thoughts to the declining stock market that should be considered. One advantage to the declining market is to continue buying stock using dollar-cost averaging. If you invest the same amount into the stock market each month, regardless of the stock market performance, you will come out ahead in the long run. This works because you are purchasing more shares of stock when prices are low and you are disciplining yourself to invest continually, avoiding the temptation to try and time the market. Another strategy is ... Read More

Volume 8, Issue 7, 2005-04-11 Should I Lease or Buy my Commercial Space? Installment 2 of 3 By Mark Walter, CCIM

Last issue we cited a study that established empirically that non-real estate companies with a high real estate investment relative to total assets experience a much lower return on capital than a company with a reverse asset structure. That's worth repeating: Companies with a high real estate investment (business owns the real property) relative to total assets (used in the business) experience a much lower return on capital than a company with a reverse asset structure. In other words, chattel property can have a significantly higher ROI! One might have arrived at this conclusion intuitively since returns on real estate are inherently lower than those on entrepreneurial investments. Businesses have a higher risk and are therefore deserving of a higher return. Businesses that are healthy and growing require ongoing capital infusions to purchase high yielding assets such as capital equipment and inventory. Businesses penalize their ROI performance by becoming commercial real estate investors. There are investors perfectly happy with the historical returns of real estate with the commensurate lower risk. A sale and lease back of real property that houses the business can free up capital for the core business where the returns are more attractive albeit riskier. It may not be the answer in all cases but is closer to being the rule and not the exception Editor's Note: Mark Walter, CCIM, has been active in real estate in Southern Utah for the past twenty-nine years. He is the principle broker/owner of NAI Utah Commercial Real Estate. Visit him at www.markwalter.com

Volume 8, Issue 8, 2005-04-25 Should I Lease or Buy my Commercial Space? Installment 3 of 3 By Mark Walter, CCIM

This is the third article on the merits of a small business not owning the real property needed to house the business. Owning real property for a non-real estate small business can be a negative when selling the business. The inclusion of real property in a business sale increases the absolute dollar value of the transaction. Therefore, by not separating the real estate from the operating business, the potential universe of buyers for the business is smaller. That means less numerical demand and a longer sales cycle. Also, the price or value paid for the goodwill of the business will likely be lower when real estate is included on the company's balance sheet. The major premise on this point is that the overall return on equity of a business that is not laden with real estate will be higher than in the opposite circumstance. Therefore, the premium over tangible assets should be greater. It is self-evident that a high return on investment warrants a premium over the tangible assets in the market place for small businesses. This is a case where the parts, sold separately, (the parts being the real estate separate from the operating assets including goodwill), will exceed their value when combined in a single transaction. Restated, the business and probably the real estate will realize a higher price when sold into their separate markets. Editor's Note: Mark Walter, CCIM, has been active in real estate in Southern Utah for the past twenty-nine years. He is the principle broker/owner of NAI Utah Commercial Real Estate. Visit him at www.markwalter.com

Volume 12, Issue 9, 2009-03-16 Should I Lease or Buy? Looking at the cash flows in the three phases of a lease By Jon Walter

When it comes to real estate for small business owners, the prevailing philosophy is that owning the real estate is always better than leasing, therefore, the lease-verses-buy analysis is seldom considered. If a business is trying to decide whether to lease or buy, a short financial exercise can help make a decision that will maximize the profit potential of the venture. To analyze the lease-verses-buy decision, it is beneficial to look at the cash flows in three phases: 1) Costs incurred to take possession of the property, 2) Expenses required to keep possession of the property, and 3) Income or expenses realized upon vacating the ... Read More

Volume 8, Issue 6, 2005-03-28 Should You Buy or Lease Commercial Space? By Mark Walter, CCIM

This article should help you answer the questions, “Should I buy or lease a commercial space?” A major cause of business underperforming or even failing is a shortage of capital. Yet many non-real estate businesses deploy scarce capital to purchase the real property that houses their business. Often the reason for owning the store or production facility is the emotional security that comes from having a “friendly landlord.” Another reason, in the case of a well established local business, is that the facility was purchased in earlier years when land and building costs were relatively cheap. However, it may be that neither of these arguments has underlying economic merit for owning rather than renting. This topic was studied at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School. The results of examining 381 non-real estate companies in 8 industries showed that those companies with a ratio of high real estate investments relative to total assets had a lower return on assets by as much as 4 points when compared to groups having low real estate ownership to total assets. That is a significant difference. More in the next issue, or feel free to call anytime. Editor's Note: Mark Walter, CCIM, has been active in real estate in Southern Utah for the past twenty-nine years. He is the principle broker/owner of NAI Utah Commercial Real Estate. Visit him at www.markwalter.com or call their office at 628-1609.

Volume 8, Issue 15, 2005-09-05 Should You Invest In The Real Estate Market Or The Stock Market? By Mark Walter

Small returns on Wall Street over the last few years make the hottest housing marketing on record seem like the way to go, but is it? Whether to invest your money in real estate or the stock market is the question of the hour and I think there is wisdom in both. Looking at the short term, U.S. real estate sale prices have increased 56% from the beginning of 1999 to the end of 2004. The S&P 500 Index* dipped nearly 6% during that same period. Let's take a look at a long term investment standpoint. In the past 25 years the S&P 500 Index has out-produced the real estate market by leaps and bounds. From the start of 1980 to the end of 2004, home sales prices increased 24... Read More

Volume 13, Issue 19, 2010-06-10 Shumate Orders Halt to Bank of America Foreclosures by John Christian Barlow, Esq.

ST. GEORGE, UTAH - A court order issued by Fifth District Court Judge James L. Shumate May 22, 2010 in St. George, Utah has stopped all foreclosure proceedings in the State of Utah by Bank of America Corporation; ReconTrust Company, N.A; Home Loans Serving, LP; Bank of America, FSB;  Court Order The Court Order if allowed to become permanent will force Bank of America and other mortgage companies with home loans in Utah to adhere to the Utah laws requiring lenders to register in the state and have offices where home owners can negotiate face-to-face with their lenders as the state lawmakers intended (Utah Code ' 57-1-21(1)(a)(i).).  The lawsuit filed by John Christian Barlow, a former Weber State University student who graduated from Loyola University of Chicago with a Master Degree in business and city managment and received his law degree from one of the most distinguished private a law colleges in the nation, Willamette University founded in 1883 at Salem, Oregon has drawn the ire of the high brow Bank of America attorney and lawyers of the law firm of Reed Smith, LLP, the 15th largest law firm in the world, according to their website.  Barlow said Bank of America claims because it's a national chartered institution, state laws are trumped, or not applicable to the bank. That was before the case was brought before Judge Shumate who read the petition, supporting case history and the state statute asking for an injunctive relief hearing filed by Barlow. The judge felt so strongly about the case before him, he issued the preliminary injunction order without a hearing halting the foreclosure process. The attorneys for Bank of America promptly filed to move the case to federal court to avoid having to deal with the judge who is not unaccustomed to high profile cases and has a history of watching out for the "little people" and citizen's rights.  The legal gamesmanship has begun with the case moved to federal court and Barlow's motion filed to remand the case to Fifth District Court. Barlow said it only seems fair the Bank be required to play by the rules that every mortgage lender in Utah is required to adhere. "I can't imagine the arrogance and audacity of the Bank of America and other big mortgage lenders that took billions in bailout funds to help resolve the mortgage mess and the financial institutions now are profiting by kicking people out of their homes without... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 14, 2008-04-22 Sick Workers Feel Obligation to Colleagues

Obligation to co-workers is the No. 1 reason employees come to work when they are sick. That's according to a new poll by LifeCare Inc., provider of specialty care services in the work/life industry. This year's top answer, cited by 29 percent of respondents, replaced "too risky to take time off," which led the survey in the previous three years. Twenty-six percent said it was too risky, pointing to office politics and culture. Taking the No. 3 spot with 15 percent were those who said they are too busy at work to stay home. Twelve percent said they save sick days for child care/elder care emergencies, and 8 percent said they save sick days for vacation time.<... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 27, 2008-07-30 Sign Company Expands Rainbow adds more space, new technology

ST. GEORGE - Rainbow Sign & Banner has recently completed an expansion and major remodel of their St. George facility at 181 East Riverside Drive. New technology and additional manufacturing space prompted the expansion while improving the physical appearance of the building prompted the remodel and facelift. "Image is everything" is one of the company's mottos, and Rainbow Sign management felt it necessary to practice what they preach. With the addition of a new pole sign and a full color message center, they hope to demonstrate first hand the power of ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 31, 2008-08-27 Sign Company Has New Location Signs Unlimited Now in Washington

WASHINGTON, Utah - After over 11 years in the same location on Bluff St. in St George, Signs Unlimited has moved to a new location. The company is now located at 405 W Buena Vista in Washington. Long time customers will appreciate the convenience and new customers will experience a great place to gather marketing ideas. The new location features plenty of parking, an air-conditioned vehicle wrap bay big enough for a bus, and a roomy place to do business in a modern environment. The large new showroom is full of fresh, contemporary ideas for marketing your business. This facility gives Signs Unlimited the space needed to offer... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 28, 2008-08-06 Sign Company Moves Office Star Sign & Banner has new location

CEDAR CITY - Star Sign & Banner has announced the company's Cedar City office has moved to 470 N. 2150 West, #5. The phone number remains 435-865-6777. ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 35, 2008-09-24 Sign Maker Cuts Ribbon on New Plant YESCO celebrates long S. Utah history

ST. GEORGE - Young Electric Sign Company last week held a ribbon cutting to celebrate the official opening of the company's new plant in the Fort Pierce Industrial Park. The St. George operation is the flagship among YESCO's network of more than 10 manufacturing facilities. The company began moving operations from its former plant last spring. MRW Design was the architect and Watts Construction built the 56,000-square-foot design and manufacturing facility. The plant does about $5 million in business annually for YESCO. That number is expected to grow over the next... Read More

Volume 8, Issue 3, 2005-02-14 Significant Commercial Property Transactions

Jason Griffith represented the buyer and the seller in the acquisition of this 6,460 sq. ft. commercial building on Sunset Blvd located at 1418 West. This building recently had a face-lift on the outside and then sold quickly. The asking price was over $600,000. Jason Griffith handled the sale of the 17 Acre Brentwood RV Park with the help of his father, John Griffith. This transaction closed in January 2005 for a yet to be disclosed amount. Mark Walter sold a convenience store in Ivins at 550 South 200 East in December 2004 for over $1,000,000. He also sold the Lube Center and Car Wash on Bluff Street in November for over $500,000. Mr. D's Tesoro Gas Station and Convenience Store on the corner of Valley View and Sunset Blvd, recently closed with the help of Mark Walter and Wes Davis. This sale closed in November of 2004 for $900,000. Joseph Iwanski recently closed on 160 acres he had listed in Warner Valley for over $1,200,000. State Farm Building on Mall Drive closed on January 31, 2005 at something over $795,000. Jason Griffith handled this transaction. The total volume of these recent NAI transactions is in excess of $5,000,000.

Volume 9, Issue 3, 2006-02-20 Signs of the Times by Voin R Campbell

The U.S. Constitution formally recognizes two levels of government. One is the Federal Government and the other is the States. Although counties and cities were understood to exist, they were considered by the founders to be “creatures of the States” and, therefore, derived their authority to govern from their respective States. Although the rights of States and changed considerably, primarily as a result of states rights being used as a shield to perpetuate human slavery, this tradition has had a profound effect upon how local governments operate and derive their powers through State Constitutions and State Legislatures. This same power struggle that has existed between Congress and the States, also exists between local governmental entities and their respective state legislatures. The current controversy boiling in the Utah State Legislature revolves around differences of opinion over how much independence from the State, cities and counties should have in land use controls over private property. The sacredness of private property rights is evidenced by the writers of the Declaration of Independence in basically equating private control of real and personal property to “the pursuit of happiness”. Long before the Utah Territory evolved into a State with powers of self government afforded States by the U.S. Constitution and by Federal Law, central planning by the Territorial Government played a critical role in determining not only where settlements would be but street patterns, population densities and land uses themselves were centrally patterned. So it was and still remains in Southern Utah. Some argue today, as has been argued in the past that the extensive powers derived by municipalities from the State to over land use, as well as development and design, interferes with the “natural order of things”, including one's right to the “pursuit of happiness”. Meanwhile, others maintain that careful planning and control is exactly what preserves the quality of life that “orderly development” naturally affords. It is argued today that, by keeping the infrastructure of schools, roads, utilities and public amenities, such as parks and open spaces, as well as the general appearance of things, in line with growth, all will be best served. Recently, in the face of substantial opposition by some business owners and after a considerable effort to draw comments from and to build consensus within the local business community, the St. George City council exercised it powers granted by the Utah State Legislature and updated it's sign ordinance, which basically dictates where what signs can be, how big they can be, and what they will look like. The stated objective of the City Council was to take a proactive role in determining, among other things, what the City would (and would not) look like. The assumption about business and signs is, “beautiful” is good for business and “ugly” is bad for business. Although most would agree in principle, the “devil is in the details”. Who gets to decide what is “beautiful” (and by extension, good for business) and what is “ugly” (and by extension, bad for business). Now, it appears to be time for someone to exercise superior wisdom by deciding the difference between a banner and a flag, as well as what, when, where and how we can play with them. Well, it appears, the “spoils go to the victors”. Those who are successful in getting elected are stuck with superior taste. It was once said of western democracies, “we have the worst form of government, except for all the other alternatives”. Perhaps, it's all about the Signs of the Times.

Volume 11, Issue 40, 2008-10-29 Simple Changes Make Ad Response Skyrocket Strategic Marketing for Your Business By Jon Bingham 3i Corporation

The following example demonstrates the power of credibility-based principles to creating effective advertising. Dr. Duke is a chiropractor. She had been running a typical 2-inch by 3-inch advertisement in the living section of the local newspaper. The ad had a picture of her, an offer of a $75 stress test, the name and the address of the office, and a phone number to call. It was very similar to the type of ad that most ad agencies or advertising professional would create. The problem was that the ad didn't work. Dr. Duke was pulling three or four non-qualified responses per month over the course of ... Read More

Volume 13, Issue 19, 2010-06-10 Simple Guidelines When Hiring a Consultant By Byron Theurer

From time to time as a small business owner you’re likely to bump up against a problem you can’t solve yourself. That may be because you don’t have the right experience or knowledge to correct it. Or it may be because you a perfectly capable of meeting the challenge but can’t justify the time it will require of you, given your many other responsibilities. Tabling that problem or challenge until a quieter time may not be an... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 8, 2008-03-04 Simply Multiply that by 2.27 and . . . How to Manage Your Business for Highest Value By Michael Dean Denning

Since the greater balance of properties our network sells are businesses, it might make sense that we have frequent discussions about business value. In my article last week we concluded that it reasonably comes down to "rate of return." ROI really defines the highest and best value for a company. That notwithstanding, many discussions held in our conference room or on the phone with clients center around "multipliers." Let's talk about these multipliers and from whence they came. First, what are they? Multipliers attempt to simplify and shortcut the process of establishing the value of a business. (Of course, doing so tends to ignore the ... Read More

Volume 13, Issue 17, 2010-05-27 SITLA Acquires Coral Canyon Development By Dave Hebertson

The Utah School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration (SITLA) and SunCor Development Company of Arizona announced today that SITLA has acquired SunCor’s interest in the Coral Canyon master planned community located in Washington County.  Coral Canyon is the premier master-planned community in the St. George area, boasting over 1,000 homes, an award-winning golf course, and exceptional community amenities. SunCor developed Coral Canyon under a master development lease from... Read More

Volume 7, Issue 20, 2004-11-08 SITLA Begins New Master-Planned Community in Washington City

Phase I of Sienna Hills launches in December 2004. Sienna Hills is a master-planned community at the northern end of Washington City, just off the I-15 mile marker 13 exit presently under construction. It will become a new gateway for Washington City. The firm of Kemp Griffin, a St. George commercial real estate company, has listed the first 10-acre commercial parcel for the new development. The planned development is about 730 acres between I-15 and Telegraph Road at the milepost 13 interchange now under construction on I-15. The new community will include more than 1,000 new residences organized into distinct neighborhoods of various types and densities; shopping and entertainment centers; office space and a civic center and more than 250 acres of open space in the community, including a connecting recreational trail system. Sienna Hills will take advantage of the area's distinctive landscape. Residential development will be situated in such a way as to create natural neighborhoods separated by land features such as ridges and arroyos. The community will have southwest-style architecture and colors and xeriscape landscaping. A potentially exciting feature of Sienna Hills is the possibility of a fiber optic network serving every business and home in the community. This would make Sienna Hills a “Smart Community,” equipped with a telecommunications bandwidth many times greater than the usual broadband offerings such as cable or DSL. Such infrastructure would not only offer far superior telephone, cable and internet service choices, but is capable of supporting advanced applications still in development. Fiber-to-the-premises infrastructure would especially appeal to the commercial residents and telecommuters of Sienna Hills. The State of Utah School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration is developing the Master Plan for Sienna Hills and will manage the sale of this land to the private sector. “It is extremely gratifying to generate money for Utah's schools while working closely with the local community to create a new development like Sienna Hills,” says Curt Gordon, Deputy Assistant Director and Manager of the Trust Lands Administration's Southwest Area Planning and Development team. “This project will be a credit to the community of Washington City for many years to come.” The School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration is an independent state agency which manages 3.5 million acres of Utah trust lands for the financial benefit of Utah's schools and 11 other public institutions. Questions in this regard may be referred to Curt Gordon at the local SITLA office in Coral Canyon at 435- 652-2950.

Volume 12, Issue 27, 2009-09-07 SITLA Board Meeting Announced

NOTICE OF BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING State of Utah School & Institutional Trust Lands Administration Suite 600 675 East 500 South Salt Lake City, Utah  84102 September 10, 2009 AGENDA: 9:00 a.m. Approval of Minutes of Prior Meeting Confirmation of... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 4, 2007-03-19 SITLA Names Planning Manager Buchi to head trust lands development group

SALT LAKE CITY - The School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration has announced the appointment of Douglas O. Buchi as its new Assistant Director of Trust Lands Planning and Development. “I am pleased that Doug has accepted the role of heading up our Planning and Development Group,” said Kevin Carter, Director of the Trust Lands Administration.. “There was an extensive search to find the right person and Doug is an excellent fit for this organization. As a licensed real estate agent and a member of several professional land agencies, Buchi is uniquely qualified for Trust Lands' mission of real estate development, land planning, and land conservation.&... Read More

Volume 9, Issue 2, 2006-02-06 SITLA On Track for Another Record Year By Dave Hebertson

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - It could be another record year for revenues at the State of Utah School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration. If revenues continue at the current pace, Trust Lands Administration revenues will exceed the record-setting revenues of the prior two fiscal years. Last year (FY 2005) revenues exceeded $108 million. In FY 2004, revenues were $71.2 million. Both of those years were records for agency revenues. With the first six months of FY 2006 on the books, total revenues exceed $55 million. In comparison, at this same point a year ago revenues were about $30 million (an increase of almost $25 million). Revenues are up in almost every category o... Read More

Volume 6, Issue 22, 2003-12-08 Six Mistakes Managers Make & the Six Leadership Habits that Eliminate Them By Stephen Chandler

Mistake #4 - Apologizing For Change Managers who apologize for any and all changes the team must accommodate are sowing the seeds of low morale and discouragement. Every time they introduce a new policy, product, system, rule or project, they apologize for it. They convey the idea that change is harmful to the well-being of the team and that change is something we would hope someday to not have to suffer so much of. This is done with the motivation of seeming compassionate, and being liked, but it results in creating a team of victims, and it dramatically lengthens the time it takes to assimilate and become comfortable with a change. Habit #4 - Advocating Change A tru... Read More

Volume 7, Issue 1, 2004-01-12 Six Mistakes Managers Make & the Six Leadership Habits that Eliminate Them By Stephen Chandler

Mistake #5 - Running Down Upper Management This is a huge temptation: To overtly, or subtly, distance yourself from your own superiors. This is done to win favor and create bonding at the victim level with the team, but it eventually damages the confidence of the team. It sends three messages that are very damaging to morale and productivity: 1) this organization can't be trusted, 2) our own management is against us and 3) I, myself, as a manager and as a person, am weak and powerless. This leads to an unpleasant but definite kind of bonding but it also leads to deep trust problems and further disrespect for the integrity of the organization. Running down upper management... Read More

Volume 7, Issue 2, 2004-01-26 Six Mistakes Managers Make & the Six Leadership Habits that Eliminate Them By Stephen Chandler

Mistake #4 - Apologizing For Change Managers who apologize for any and all changes the team must accommodate are sowing the seeds of low morale and discouragement. Every time they introduce a new policy, product, system, rule or project, they apologize for it. They convey the idea that change is harmful to the well-being of the team and that change is something we would hope someday to not have to suffer so much of. This is done with the motivation of seeming compassionate, and being liked, but it results in creating a team of victims, and it dramatically lengthens the time it takes to assimilate and become comfortable with a change. Habit #4 - Advocating Change A tru... Read More

Volume 7, Issue 3, 2004-02-09 Six Mistakes Managers Make & the Six Leadership Habits that Eliminate Them By Stephen Chandler

Mistake #6 - Refusing To Be an Optimist This is the most fundamental of all the mistakes. It runs through each of the previous five. It is a position, a pose, taken by the manager of not being optimistic about the future of the organization, and therefore, the future of the team. It is a refusal to prepare for team meetings by learning the rationale behind the latest company decisions. It is a refusal to take a stand for the success of the enterprise. It is a refusal to be an advocate for the organization's ongoing strategy. It is also an exaggerated tendency to acknowledge and agree with every issue's downside without standing up for the upside. Sometimes ... Read More

Volume 7, Issue 22, 2004-12-13 Sixth Annual First Night Approaches

Dan Matheson of KCSG TV has announced that First Night will be held in downtown St. George on Friday, December 31, starting at 7:00 PM. All activities will be held along historic Main Street in downtown St. George. The celebration continues until the fireworks finale at midnight. According to Matheson. "First Night is a non-alcoholic. family-friendly New Year's Eve Celebration of culture and the arts. It is an opportunity to bring in the New Year with live music, art, entertainment, food, games, children's area, interactive exhibits and a fantastic fireworks display." First Night St. George is the areas largest event with over 30,000 participants expected to attend the New Years Eve Celebration. This years event has brought in more sponsors than ever before and reads like a Who's Who among area businesses. "We truly appreciate so many businesses getting behind this great, family-friendly event. It says so much about our community, our leaders and those who have chosen to set up shop in St. George," exclaimed Matheson.

Volume 11, Issue 24, 2008-07-09 Sixth Down U.S. jobs numbers continue downward spiral By Jeff Thredgold, Pres., Thredgold Economic Assoc.

The June employment data released on July 3 was more of the same. Highlights (actually lowlights) included a painful decline in overall employment, a downward revision to employment data of the two prior months, and the jobless rate remaining at a four-year high. Good employment news has been hard to find in recent months. However, one major positive factor can be noted. Job losses this time around the (presumed) recession track are much less than losses during the 2001 recession. The Numbers The American economy suffered an estimated ... Read More

Volume 13, Issue 27, 2010-09-01 Skutumpah Road Kane County wins its first R.S. 2477 road By Douglas Heaton

KANAB, UTAH - Kane County wins its first R.S. 2477 road – the On August 30, 2010, in a Kane County quiet title suit in the United States District Court, the United States acknowledged Kane County’s ownership and jurisdiction of approximately 26 miles of the 33 mile long Skutumpah road. The County will start signing, maintaining and repairing the road today. The Skutumpah road is believed to be the first Utah R.S. 2477 highway with title confirmed in court, and may be the first R.S. 2477 road adjudicated on lands managed by the Department of the Interior (Interior).      Commissioners Mark Habbeshaw, Daniel Hulet and Doug Heaton,  along with Utah State Representative Mike Noel  The State of Utah joined Kane County in the suit to quiet title to... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 23, 2008-07-02 Sky-View Chooses Alianza For broadband phone service

ST. GEORGE - Sky-View Technologies, a St. George company providing digital TV, high-speed Internet, data services and voice over Internet protocol to customers in five southern Utah counties, has retained Lindon-based Alianza Inc. to add a voice product to Sky-View's broadband services. ... Read More

Volume 7, Issue 16, 2004-09-13 SkyWest Airlines Chairman Celebrates 30 years of Service

SkyWest Airlines recently announced that Chairman, President and CEO Jerry Atkin celebrated his 30-year anniversary with the airline on September 1, 2004. SkyWest employees met at the airline's Corporate Headquarters in St. George, Utah for an open house to offer a "World of Thanks" for the man who built the leadership team that has chartered SkyWest's course of success into the millennium. When asked about their feelings on their leader, responses from SkyWest's 7100-strong employee base seemed to carry a similar theme: Jerry Atkin recognizes the significance of each employee and the role they play in the success of the Company -- from the frontline to the executive office. His optimism and character have become as much a part of SkyWest culture as the airline's dedication to a quality product. Patricia Frye, Sun Valley, Idaho Station Manager has known Jerry for more than 18 years. “[He] is the most caring, warmest, unpretentious man in our company, and I'm proud to have him as our CEO.” Loretta Nicolai, six year employee and Station Manager in Pasco, Washington explained, “We all know [Jerry] is a very busy person, but he takes the time to get out to our stations and meet with our employees. That means a lot. I appreciate all of his efforts in making everyone feel that they make a difference.” “Jerry has a gift for making our frontline employees feel appreciated and valued,” said Kelly Potter-Jasmin, Manager of Employee Relations and ten-year employee based at the airline's Corporate Headquarters in St. George, Utah. “He sincerely enjoys meeting and conversing with our employees throughout the system. Undoubtedly, this is one of the reasons he is such an effective leader. If people feel cared for, they will follow you into battle anytime, anywhere. “ And Ken Talley, Director of Properties and Facilities with 12-years of tenure recalled: “Part of Jerry's mission has always been to visit our stations and bases, and meet as many SkyWest employees as possible. I'm not even sure Jerry realizes just what that means to front line employees, regardless of their seniority or department. To have the CEO of the company for which you work, come for a visit, spend some time with the employees and tell them how much he appreciates what they do, is simply not done by most people in his position. This is what has impressed me most about Jerry Atkin since day one of my employment.” At 26 years old, Jerry became the youngest president ever of a regularly scheduled airline. From the airline's humble beginning through the company's immense growth, Jerry has built relationships that have resulted in success for employees at every level. SkyWest has been named Regional Airline of the Year twice by Air Transport World and was named the Number One On-Time Airline in the United States by the Department of Transportation for 2003 - a year in which it carried 10.7 million passengers. Currently, SkyWest has more than 1,400 daily departures to 129 cities in 35 states and Canada. Atkin lives in St. George with his wife Carolyn, and is the father of three sons and one daughter.

Volume 9, Issue 12, 2006-09-04 SkyWest Airlines Grows Fleet Adds 70-passenger jets By Marissa Snow

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest Airlines, a subsidiary of SkyWest Inc. (NASDAQ: SKYW), welcomes a fourth aircraft type into their modern fleet of regional aircraft: the 70-passenger, Bombardier manufactured Canadair Regional Jet 900 (CRJ900). The airline is taking its first deliveries of these previously firm ordered aircraft this month. As a result of these new deliveries, SkyWest Airlines will operate all three variants of Bombardier's industry-leading jet. “This jet represents an expanded role for SkyWest in Salt Lake City,” said Ron Reber, SkyWest Airlines President and Chief Operating Officer. “The CRJ900 combines excellent performance and ... Read More

Volume 8, Issue 21, 2005-12-05 SkyWest Airlines Honored As Utah Top 15 Revenue Growth Company For 2005

St. George, UT, - SkyWest Airlines, on behalf of its parent company, SkyWest, Inc., received accolades as a Utah top fifteen revenue growth company by the MountainWest Capital Network. MWCN is Utah's premiere business networking organization. Ranked second of the fifteen, the MountainWest Capital Network lauded SkyWest as a “significant contributor to the state and its expanding economy.” Rankings were based on published financial results, organizational reach and commitment to Utah growth. Brad Rich, SkyWest executive vice president, chief financial officer and treasurer, said, “This recognition validates SkyWest as a viable player in the greate... Read More

Volume 7, Issue 3, 2004-02-09 SkyWest Airlines Introduces the CRJ700

SkyWest 's family of regional jets just got a little bigger as they welcome the 70-seat Bombardier Canadair Regional Jet 700 (CRJ700)into their fleet. SkyWest has ordered 30 CRJ700s for operation in the United Express system and will begin taking delivery of them in February 2004.SkyWest currently operates more than 100 Canadair Regional Jet 200 (CRJ200). Operationally Sound. Designed on the same platform as its sister aircraft, the 50-seat CRJ200,the 70-seat CRJ700 builds on the 200 's success through an improved, more spacious passenger cabin, an added under-floor baggage bin, an even-faster cruise speed, and the ability for shorter take-offs and slower approach speeds. ... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 6, 2009-02-23 SkyWest Airlines Names Joe Sigg Director Sigg to oversee more than 150 employees in Skywest system

ST. GEORGE, UTAH February, 2009 – SkyWest Airlines recently named Joe Sigg director of aircraft spares. Sigg replaces Todd Wilkinson, who has taken a new role at SkyWest’s sister carrier, Atlantic Southeast Airlines. In his new role, Sigg will be responsible for the procurement and distribution of all aircraft parts throughout SkyWest’s system, as well as working with maintenance vendors, maintaining the inventory of all parts and materials, managing parts accounts/budgets and ensuring that all parts meet FAA regulations as well as SkyWest’s high standard of excellence. Sigg will oversee approximately... Read More

Volume 9, Issue 3, 2006-02-20 SkyWest Airlines Ranked As 2005 Number One On-Time

St. George, Utah, - SkyWest Airlines, a wholly-owned subsidiary of SkyWest, Inc. (NASDAQ: SKYW), recently announced its ranking as the Number One On-Time Mainland Airline in the United States Department of Transportation's Airline On-Time Performance report for the year 2005. For three years running, SkyWest Airlines clocked-in with the highest On-Time arrival record of any mainland United States-based airline. SkyWest Airlines is one of 19 carriers required to report operating statistics by the DOT. The airline transported 16.5 million passengers during the twelve-month period. President and chief operating officer Ron Reber said, “I commend our workforce for ... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 15, 2009-04-27 SkyWest Airlines Receives Top Reliability Honors

ST. GEORGE, UTAH April, 2009 - SkyWest Airlines is the proud recipient of Bombardier's 2008 Annual Airline Reliability Performance Award. Topping the CRJ100/200 product category for the Americas region, SkyWest took the prestigious title for the second year running. SkyWest earned the title in the same product and region category in 2007. The airline also received top honors for overall dispatch reliability. "This award recognizes the caliber of SkyWest's professionals throughout our operation," said President and COO Russell "Chip" Childs. "I am extremely proud of our unparalleled team of more than 10,000 who work together to safely complete more than 1,500 flights every day." Todd Young, vice president of customer services and support for... Read More

Volume 7, Issue 10, 2004-05-24 Skywest Airlines Reports April Traffic

SkyWest Airlines, Inc. reported a 32.5 percent increase in revenue passenger miles (RPMs) for April, while available seat miles (ASMs) increased 26.2 percent compared to the same period last year. The airline generated 397.3 million RPMs for the month, while ASMs increased to 562.6 million. Load factor increased 3.3 percentage points to 70.6 percent compared to 67.3 percent for the same period last year. Passenger boardings for April totaled 981,791, a 26.7 percent increase over April 2003. SkyWest Airlines was named the number one on-time airline in the United States by the Department of Transportation for 2003, a year in which it carried 10.7 million passengers. SkyWest operates as United Express, Delta Connection and Continental Connection carriers under contractural agreements with United Airlines and Delta Air Lines, and under a marketing agreement with Continental Airlines. System-wide, SkyWest has approximately 6,600 employees and serves a total of 101 cities in 27 states and two Canadian provinces with more than 1,200 daily departures.

Volume 9, Issue 8, 2006-05-22 SkyWest Airlines Says. Thanks for the memories to Cedar City Sammie Winslow

St. George, UT - SkyWest Airlines expresses "Thanks For The Memories" to Cedar City, Utah as its 34-year air service came off-line. Cedar City served as a midpoint for SkyWest's maiden flight from St. George to Salt Lake City on June 19, 1972. SkyWest Airlines especially wishes its Cedar City employees the best, some of whom have served for more than 30 years. Airline service transitioned from SkyWest to Mesa Airlines on May 7, 2006. SkyWest Airlines president and chief operating officer Ron Reber, who began his career as a ramp agent in Cedar City said, “Cedar is a place of history and great memories for SkyWest and me personally. We will miss seeing Cedar Cit... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 38, 2007-11-26 SkyWest Announces Cedar City Fares

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest Airlines, operating as Delta Connection, will offer a fare of $68 plus taxes and fees one way between Cedar City and Salt Lake City. SkyWest will operate two daily flights between Cedar City and Salt Lake City beginning Jan. 8, 2008. "In honor of our return to one of our maiden cities, we are pleased to offer one of our lowest published fares to our Cedar City passengers," said Mike Thompson, vice president of market development. "With 34 years of Cedar City service, SkyWest is introducing the low, low fare of $2 for every year we have served the community." Customers can book online at www.delta.com or through Delta Reservations at 800.212... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 36, 2007-11-09 SkyWest Announces Cedar City Service Schedule

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest Airlines, a subsidiary of SkyWest, Inc., has announced that Delta Connection service between Cedar City and Salt Lake City will begin January 8, 2008, utilizing the Embraer-manufactured EMB 120 aircraft. SkyWest flights will depart Cedar City for Salt Lake at 7:20 a.m. daily except Sunday and 2:52 p.m. daily. Flights from Salt Lake to Cedar City will depart at 1:30 p.m. daily and 7:25 p.m. daily except Saturday. SkyWest Airlines is working with current Cedar City air carrier Air Midwest to transition service. "We are pleased to resume our partnership with the airport and the community, and look forward to returning to Cedar C... Read More

Volume 9, Issue 15, 2006-11-20 SkyWest Announces Earnings, Dividend

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. has reported operating revenues of $791.8 million for the third quarter ended Sept. 30, a 59.2 percent increase compared to the same period last year. The company also reported net income of $40.7 million for the third quarter, or $0.63 per diluted share, compared to $30.1 million of net income or $0.51 per diluted share for the same period last year. SkyWest reported operating revenues of $2.33 billion for the nine months ended Sept. 30, a 90.3% increase compared to the same period last year. The company reported net income of $114.6 million for the nine months ended Sept. 30, or $1.82 per diluted share, compared to $7... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 2, 2007-02-19 SkyWest Announces Q4, Annual Results Board declares quarterly dividend

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. has reported operating revenues of $789.6 million for the quarter ended Dec. 31, 2006, a 6.4% increase, compared to $742.4 million for the same period last year. SkyWest also reported net income of $31.2 million for the quarter, or $0.48 per diluted share, compared to $38.7 million of net income or $0.64 per diluted share for the same period last year. SkyWest reported operating revenues of $3.11 billion for the year ended Dec. 31, 2006, a 58.6% increase, compared to $1.96 billion for the same period in 2005. SkyWest also reported net income of $145.8 million for the year, or $2.30 per diluted share, compared to $112.3 million of net income, or $1.9... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 4, 2007-03-19 SkyWest Announces Stock Repurchase

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. has announced that it has been authorized by its board of directors to repurchase up to 5 million shares of SkyWest, Inc. outstanding common stock. The company is authorized to repurchase in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions as deemed appropriate by management. Depending on market conditions and other factors, these purchases may be commenced or suspended from time to time without prior notice. "We believe that initiating a stock repurchase program at this time is a good use of financial resources and that it will further the advancement of certain corporate objectives" said Bradford R. Rich, Executive Vice President and CFO. "W... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 36, 2007-11-09 SkyWest Announces Third Quarter Results

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. reported operating revenues of $875.6 million for the third quarter ended Sept. 30, a 10.6 percent increase, compared to $791.8 million for the same period last year. SkyWest also reported net income of $42.9 million for the quarter, or $0.68 per diluted share, compared to $40.7 million of net income or $0.63 per diluted share for the same period last year. Total operating revenues for the third quarter of 2007 increased primarily as a result of a 14.7 percent increase in available seat miles and by increased fuel cost reimbursements by SkyWest's major partners that are recorded as operating revenues and operating expenses, under contract flying ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 6, 2008-02-12 SkyWest Announces Year End Financials

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. reported operating revenues of $854.7 million for the quarter ended Dec. 31, an 8.3 percent increase compared to $789.6 million for the same period last year. SkyWest also reported net income of $40.9 million for the quarter, or $0.66 per diluted share, compared to $31.2 million of net income or $0.48 per diluted share for the same period last year. SkyWest reported operating revenues of $3.37 billion for the year ended Dec. 31, an 8.3 percent increase, compared to $3.11 billion for the same period last year. SkyWest also reported net income of $159.2 million for the year or $2.49 per diluted share, compared to $145.8 mi... Read More

Volume 7, Issue 9, 2004-05-10 SkyWest Appoints Eric Woodward to Directorship

SkyWest Airlines recently announced the appointment of Eric Woodward to Director of Financial Planning and Analysis. Eric will work at the airline's corporate headquarters in St. George, Utah and will report to Russell (Chip) Childs, SkyWest's Vice President - Controller. In his new position, Woodward will be responsible for the company's annual profit planning, forecasting and overall financial analysis activities. He will be responsible for models and calculations for departure rates with SkyWest's partner carriers. In addition, he will devote significant energy implementing cost saving programs and benchmarking the company's activities with that of its competitors. Woodward has an impressive background in the financial industry and public accounting. He spent seven years servicing companies in the transportation, manufacturing and distribution, hospitality and software industries. He has a Master's Degree in Accounting from the University of Utah and is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Utah Association of Certified Public Accountants. He and his family look forward to relocating to the St. George area. “We are indeed grateful to add such a high caliber individual like Eric to our staff,” said Childs. “His vast and extensive experience in the financial industry will prove invaluable. He will be a tremendous asset to our airline and will undoubtedly have an immediate impact.” SkyWest Airlines was named the number one on-time airline in the United States by the Department of Transportation for 2003, a year in which they carried 10.7 million passengers. System-wide, SkyWest has approximately 6,600 employees and serves a total of 101 cities in 27 states and three Canadian provinces with more than 1,200 daily departures.

Volume 10, Issue 3, 2007-02-26 SkyWest Appoints Madsen Regional Director Industry veteran to head Midwest Connect operations

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest Airlines is pleased to announce the selection of Casey Madsen to the new position of Midwest Connect regional director for SkyWest. As the airline prepares for its new partnership with Midwest Airlines beginning April 1, Madsen will play a vital role in directing all ground operations activities and serve as the central liaison for coordinating successful station operations. Madsen has extensive experience in the airline industry and has served SkyWest in leadership capacities since he began his SkyWest career in 2004. As station manager, Madsen successfully accomplished all duties associated with preparing and opening the Burbank and Long Beach, Cali... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 12, 2007-05-14 SkyWest Appoints New Director

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. has announced the appointment of James L. Welch to the board of directors of SkyWest, Inc. and its subsidiaries, SkyWest Airlines, Inc. and Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Inc., effective May 4, 2007. Welch's career from 1978 to 2007 was spent with YRC Worldwide, Inc. (formerly Yellow Roadway) and he recently retired having served as president and chief executive officer since 2000. As the CEO for Yellow Transportation, Mr. Welch led a $3.6 billion transportation services company with 25,000 employees. He had the responsibility of directing a large network of 350 service centers with both domestic and international locations and leading a... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 16, 2007-06-11 SkyWest Begins Service on Two New Routes

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest Airlines, a wholly owned subsidiary of SkyWest, Inc., has begun Delta Connection jet service between Salt Lake City and San Louis Obispo, Calif., and between Salt Lake City and Yakima, Wash. The airline will utilize 50-passenger Bombardier manufactured CRJ200 aircraft on both routes. The inaugural Delta flight departed San Luis Obispo for Salt Lake City on June 11, and departed Yalkima for Salt Lake City June 7. SkyWest is celebrating its 35th anniversary this month. System-wide, the airline employs nearly 11,000 and serves 146 cities in 38 states and five Canadian provinces, with more than 1,800 daily departures. ... Read More

Volume 9, Issue 7, 2006-05-08 SkyWest Breaks Ground In Γ’β‚¬ΛœThe Springs'

Colorado Springs, CO - SkyWest Airlines, a wholly owned subsidiary of SkyWest, Inc. (NASDAQ: SKYW), donned hard hats and golden shovels on April 28 to break ground for its new, state-of-the-art hangar and maintenance facility in “The Springs.” The 100,000-square foot facility will boast capacity to service seventeen aircraft in a 24-hour period. Located off the Colorado Springs Airport's west runway, the facility will have room for 200 maintenance professionals. Hensel Phelps is serving as general contractor in cooperation with URS Corporation and VCBO Architecture.Colorado Springs Airport aviation director Mark Earle remarked, “We are honored that S... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 5, 2007-03-26 SkyWest Celebrates 20 Years in Monterey

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest Airlines is celebrating 20 years of dedicated service at Monterey Peninsula Airport. The airline began operations at Monterey in March 1987 as a Delta Connection carrier to Los Angeles. In 1997, after signing an agreement with United Airlines, SkyWest began offering flights to San Francisco and added Denver as a daily destination last year. Today, SkyWest operates a combination of 30-passenger Embraer 120 Brasilia aircraft, and 50- and 70-passenger Canadair Regional Jet aircraft with 14 daily departures as United Express. SkyWest also initiated Monterey's Delta Connection service in August 2005 with two daily departures to Salt Lake... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 10, 2007-04-30 SkyWest Celebrates 25 Years in Reno

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest Airlines, a subsidiary of SkyWest, Inc. and the nation's largest independently owned regional carrier, is celebrating 25 years of dedicated service at Reno-Tahoe International Airport. SkyWest cut the ribbon to open the station 25 years ago. Airport and city officials gathered with SkyWest employees in the terminal to mark the occasion and commemorate the anniversary. "It is great to be a part of this community, both as an employee and passenger aboard SkyWest,” said Olga Cabrera, SkyWest Reno station manager. “Reno has been a big part of our history, and SkyWest will continue to be a strong part of Reno's future.&r... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 17, 2007-06-18 SkyWest Celebrates 35 Years of Service

ST. GEORGE — SkyWest Airlines, a subsidiary of SkyWest, Inc., this week celebrated the 35th anniversary of its first flight from St. George to Salt Lake City. ‘SkyWest has had an exceptionally great 35-year history, and this is where it all began,’ said Jerry Atkin, SkyWest, Inc. chairman and chief executive officer, who joined the airline as director of finance in 1974 and is also a St. George native. ‘On behalf of our 587 St. George-based employees, and our nearly 11,000 employees across the nation, I extend our heartfelt appreciation to SkyWest's hometown.’ Chip Childs, SkyWest Airlines president and chief operating office... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 1, 2008-01-01 SkyWest Celebrates Return to Cedar City

CEDAR CITY - SkyWest Airlines in partnership with Cedar City Regional Airport is celebrating its return to Cedar City with an open house on Tuesday, Jan. 8. SkyWest executives, as well as Congressman Jim Matheson will be in attendance. The press and community are encouraged to enjoy the festivities and refreshments from 2 to 4 p.m. "We're celebrating SkyWest's return to Cedar City, and invite the community to join us," said Mike Thompson, SkyWest Airlines vice president of market development. "We look forward to a strong future serving the community once again." SkyWest's twice daily Salt Lake City service utilizing the 30-passenger Embraer-manufactured EMB 120 ... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 35, 2007-11-02 SkyWest Changes Q3 Call Date

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. has changed the date of the company's conference call to discuss third quarter 2007 earnings results. The call will take place Thursday, Nov. 8, at 9 a.m. MST. The call format will provide an overview of the financial results followed by a question and answer session. The call-in number for domestic callers is 1-866-322-0204. The call-in number for international dialers is 1-706-679-2328. The conference ID # is 21618868. Those interested should call ten minutes before the scheduled hour to insure a prompt starting time. If you have any questions, please contact Tevya Hilsmann at 435-634-... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 21, 2007-07-20 SkyWest Conference Call - Aug. 8

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. will discuss second quarter 2007 earnings results during a conference call at 9 a.m. MDT on Wednesday, August 8. The call will provide an overview of the results followed by a question and answer session. The call-in number for domestic callers is 1-866-322-0204. The call-in number for international dialers is 1-706-679-2328. The conference ID # is 10293320. Callers are urged to call ten minutes before the scheduled hour to insure a prompt starting time. If you have any questions, please contact Tevya Hilsmann at (435) 634-3203. Interested parties can also access the call live via PR Newswire Webcast at: http://www.videonewswire.com/e... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 22, 2007-07-27 SkyWest Conference Call - Aug. 8

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. will discuss second quarter 2007 earnings results during a conference call at 9 a.m. MDT on Wednesday, August 8. The call will provide an overview of the results followed by a question and answer session. The call-in number for domestic callers is 1-866-322-0204. The call-in number for international dialers is 1-706-679-2328. The conference ID # is 10293320. Callers are urged to call ten minutes before the scheduled hour to insure a prompt starting time. If you have any questions, please contact Tevya Hilsmann at (435) 634-3203. Interested parties can also access the call live via PR Newswire Webcast at: http://www.videonewswire.com/e... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 23, 2007-08-03 SkyWest Conference Call - Aug. 8

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. will discuss second quarter 2007 earnings results during a conference call at 9 a.m. MDT on Wednesday, August 8. The call will provide an overview of the results followed by a question and answer session. The call-in number for domestic callers is 1-866-322-0204. The call-in number for international dialers is 1-706-679-2328. The conference ID # is 10293320. Callers are urged to call ten minutes before the scheduled hour to insure a prompt starting time. If you have any questions, please contact Tevya Hilsmann at (435) 634-3203. Interested parties can also access the call live via PR Newswire Webcast at: http://www.videonewswire.com/e... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 12, 2007-05-14 SkyWest Declares Dividend

ST. GEORGE - At the May 1, board meeting of SkyWest, Inc. , the company's board of Directors declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of three cents per common share for shareholders of record on June 29, and payable July 6. The board of director's regular quarterly dividend policy is based upon the company's strong financial condition and confidence in the company's ability to pay a regular quarterly dividend. SkyWest Airlines, based in St. George, Utah, and ASA, based in Atlanta, Georgia, are wholly-owned subsidiaries of SkyWest, Inc. SkyWest Airlines operates as United Express, Delta Connection and Midwest Connect carriers under contractual agreements with ... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 24, 2007-08-17 SkyWest Declares Dividend

ST. GEORGE — SkyWest Inc directors have declared a cash dividend of three cents a share, following an earlier announcement of flat earnings for the quarter ended June 30. The dividend is payable October 5 to shareholders of record on September 28. The company, parent of SkyWest Airlines and Atlantic Southeast Airlines, reported reported net income of $40.6 million for the quarter, or 62 cents a share. That compares to $39.3 million or 62 per share for the same period last year. Revenue for the quarter was up slightly at $855 million, an 8.2% increase compared to $790.4 million for the same period last year. The company reported that it repu... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 37, 2007-11-16 SkyWest Declares Dividend

ST. GEORGE - The SkyWest, Inc., board of directors has declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $.03 per common share for shareholders of record on Dec. 31, 2007, and payable Jan. 4, 2008. The board's regular quarterly dividend policy is based upon the company's strong financial condition. SkyWest Airlines, Inc., based in St. George, Utah, and Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Inc., based in Atlanta, Georgia, are, both, wholly-owned subsidiaries of SkyWest, Inc. SkyWest serves a total of approximately 237 cities in the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean, with approximately 2,432 daily departures. ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 30, 2008-08-20 SkyWest Declares Quarterly Dividend Company to pay three cents per share

ST. GEORGE - At the Aug. 5 meeting of SkyWest, Inc., the company's board of directors declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of three cents per common share for shareholders of record on Sept. 30, and payable Oct. 6. The board's regular quarterly dividend policy is based upon the company's strong financial condition and confidence in the company's ability to pay a regular quarterly dividend. SkyWest Airlines, based in St. George, and Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Inc., based in Atlanta, Ga., are wholly-owned subsidiaries of SkyWest, Inc. System-wide, SkyWest, Inc. serves ... Read More

Volume 9, Issue 9, 2006-06-12 SkyWest Enhances Airline Schedule Sammie Winslow

St. George, UT - SkyWest Airlines, a wholly owned subsidiary of SkyWest, Inc. (NASDAQ: SKYW), has enhanced its Delta Connection service between Delta's Salt Lake City hub and Southern Utah. The new schedule entails an eighth daily roundtrip between Utah's Capitol and Utah's Dixie along with a new morning nonstop to Salt Lake City. Enhancements to the schedule went into effect on May 7, 2006. Passengers can expect SkyWest's usual service to Utah's capitol city with access to Delta's 100-plus destinations via its Salt Lake City hub. Passengers will continue to accrue Delta frequent-flier miles while flying SkyWest Delta Connection. SkyWest Ai... Read More

Volume 7, Issue 20, 2004-11-08 SkyWest Expands to Destinations in Mexico

SkyWest Airlines recently announced a new “code-share agreement” with SkyTeam member Aeromexico. The code-share arrangement will feature approximately 13 SkyWest Delta Connection destinations from their Salt Lake City hub. “Aeromexico and Delta Connection passengers in these select communities will now have the equivalent of single-carrier service to destinations throughout the United States and Mexico,” said Steve Hart, Vice President of Market Development for SkyWest Airlines. “SkyWest and Aeromexico will be working together to ensure that customers receive excellent service when traveling between the two carriers.” “It is our mission at Aeromexico to provide our passengers with the highest levels of service and convenience,” said Luis Del Rio, Vice President of Aeromexico, International Division. “We are confident that our new code-share relationship with SkyWest Airlines will be met with a positive response from our mutual customers, who will now have even greater choice when traveling to Mexico than ever before.” The agreement will be executed seamlessly for passengers, and allows Aeromexico to sell seats on SkyWest flights providing customers increased availability to the Delta and Delta Connection network. The partnership will also offer increased coordination between the airlines to allow for more convenient connection opportunities, and reciprocal access to Delta's SkyMiles and Aeromexico's Club Premier frequent flyer programs. About Aeromexico: Aeromexico serves more than 40 cities in Mexico, more than any other airline, and 17 gateway cities in the United States including Atlanta; Boston; Chicago; Dallas/Fort Worth; El Paso; Houston; Las Vegas; Los Angeles; Miami; New York City; Ontario, Calif.; Orlando; Phoenix; Salt Lake City; San Antonio; San Diego; and Tucson - and five countries in Europe and South America. Founded in 1988, Aeromexico has become the leading carrier in the region by maintaining the highest service levels, which have earned the airline numerous top rankings in the industry. The airline was the first Mexican carrier to introduce a frequent flyer program. Today, Aeromexico's Club Premier program serves almost two million members worldwide. Aeromexico is a founding member of the SkyTeam global airline alliance, which provides customers with extensive worldwide destinations, flights and services. The airline's corporate headquarters are in Mexico City and its U.S. operations are based in Houston. About SkyWest Airlines: Editor's note: SkyTeam is the global airline alliance comprised of Aeromexico, Air France, Alitalia, Continental, CSA Czech Airlines, Delta Air Lines, KLM, Korean Air and Northwest Airlines. Through one of the world's largest networks, SkyTeam offers close to 14,320 daily flights and access to 390 airport lounges to its frequent flyers. The alliance serves 341.4 million travelers across the globe through its multiple flight options and connections. For more information on SkyTeam, go to www.skyteam.com.

Volume 11, Issue 5, 2008-02-05 SkyWest Files Complaint Over Dispute With Delta

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. has announced that a complaint has been filed in the Superior Court of Fulton County, Georgia, against Delta Air Lines. The complaint alleges Delta has withheld from SkyWest and Atlantic Southeast Airlines $25 million of reimbursement payments for certain operating expenses. SkyWest claims the reimbursements are authorized by the Delta Connection agreements entered into by Delta, SkyWest and ASA. SkyWest Airlines and ASA are wholly-owned subsidiaries of SkyWest, Inc. Commenting on the dispute, Bradford R. Rich, Executive Vice President and CFO of SkyWest, Inc. said, "Although we and Delta are both committed to maintain a... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 9, 2008-03-11 SkyWest Fills Director Positions

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest Airlines, a subsidiary of SkyWest, Inc., is pleased to announce three of its leaders as new directors: Casey Madsen as director - employee relations in the people department; Christopher C. Brown as director -flight operations; and Robin L. Wall as director - training. Madsen will report to Lori Hunt, vice president - people; Brown and Wall will report to Klen Brooks, vice president - flight operations. Brown and Wall will assume their positions March 10; Madsen will assume his new role April 16. Brown will oversee flight operations policies and procedures, including manual revisions, record-keeping, compliance with Federal Aviation Regulati... Read More

Volume 8, Issue 18, 2005-10-17 SkyWest Gets Nod on Agreements Approval Sets Stage for Release of Escrow Payment

ST. GEORGE, UT, - SkyWest announced recently that it has been notified that the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York, which is administering the Chapter 11 proceeding for Delta Air Lines, Inc. (“Delta”), has authorized Delta to assume its obligations under the Delta Connection Agreements executed between Delta and SkyWest Airlines, Inc. (“SkyWest Airlines”) and Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Inc. (“ASA”), respectively, in connection with SkyWest's acquisition of ASA from Delta on September 7, 2005. The approval granted by Judge Prudence C. Beatty on October 6, 2005, if not appealed, would satisfy the conditions for rel... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 2, 2008-01-15 Skywest Inc Reports December Traffic

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. reported a 7.9 percent increase in revenue passenger miles (RPMs) for December, while available seat miles (ASMs) increased 11.0 percent compared to the same period last year. The company's combined airlines generated 1.39 billion RPMs for the month, while ASMs increased to 1.89 billion. Load factor was down 2.1 percentage points to 73.6 percent compared to 75.7 percent for the same period last year. Passenger boardings for December totaled 2,686,926 a 6.8 percent increase over December 2006. SkyWest Airlines, based in St. George, and Atlantic Southeast Airlines, based in Atlanta, Ga., are wholly owned subsidiaries of SkyWest. System-w... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 43, 2008-11-19 SkyWest Increases Quarterly Dividend 33% Dividends result of financial strength; liquidity

ST. GEORGE -  SkyWest, Inc. announced on Nov. 18th that at the Company's Board of Directors meeting on November 12, 2008, the board approved a 33% increase in the quarterly cash dividend to $.04 per common share. The quarterly dividend of $.04 per common share will apply to shareholders of record on December 31, 2008, and is payable on January 5, 2009. The board increased the quarterly cash dividend as a result of its confidence in the Company's current business model and due to the Company's financial strength, liquidity and ability to pay a regular quarterly dividend. In addition, the Company announced that it has resumed repurchasing of its common stock in the ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 33, 2008-09-10 SkyWest Invests in Brazilian Airline Airline puts $30 million into Trip Linhas Aerea

ST. GEORGE - The Deseret News reports SkyWest Inc., the St. George-based operator of commuter flights for larger airlines, has agreed to invest $30 million in Brazilian carrier Trip Linhas Aereas, to enter a market that's expanding as incomes rise. The investment will come in three parts through February 2010, when SkyWest will have a stake of as much as 20 percent, the Brazilian airline told reporters last week in Sao Paulo. The stake SkyWest is buying in Trip is the... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 1, 2007-01-22 SkyWest Issues Fourth Quarter Guidance Poor weather likely to negatively affect results

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. has announced the company anticipates that its fourth quarter 2006 net income will be approximately $28.5 million to $32.3 million, with fully diluted earnings per share to be between $0.44 and $0.50 when actual results are announced on Feb. 7, 2007. SkyWest's year-end estimates reflect the effect of three unanticipated factors. First, during December 2006, Denver International Airport closed for two days due to snow. As a result of the closure and subsequent weather problems, SkyWest Airlines cancelled virtually all of its flights for two days and experienced other significant "downline" cancellations. It is estimated that SkyWest can... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 3, 2008-01-22 SkyWest Lowers Fares to LA

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest Airlines has announced a new restricted fare from St. George to Los Angeles. St. George residents can now fly to Los Angeles for $108 one way or $195 round-trip. Tickets must be booked 14 days in advance. "We are excited to offer these discounted fares to our local passengers," said Mike Thompson, SkyWest Airlines vice president - market development. "These low fares come just in time for St. George residents to plan their spring or summer vacations." With SkyWest's twice daily round-trip service from St. George to Los Angeles, locals have access to more than 210 worldwide destinations through United's Los Angeles hub. Fares are already av... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 8, 2007-04-16 SkyWest Maintenance Department Honored

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest Airlines has been honored with FAA's Aviation Maintenance Technician Diamond Award for exceptional attendance and participation in initial and recurrent maintenance training. AMT awards are presented each year to airlines based on the percentage of maintenance employees who receive individual AMT awards. In order for an airline to receive a Diamond Certificate of Excellence, more than 50 percent of eligible maintenance employees must earn individual AMT awards. SkyWest earned the AMT Gold Certificate in 2004 and 2005, with more than 30 percent of eligible mechanics receiving individual awards. In 2006, 75 percent of... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 4, 2008-01-29 SkyWest May Seek Merger with Rival

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest Inc., cited by an ExpressJet Holdings Inc. investor as a possible merger partner for the rival regional airline, is considering acquisitions as a way to grow, according to SkyWest's chief financial officer Brad Rich. As SkyWest seeks to expand, new contract opportunities from larger carriers have "kind of slowed down of late," Rich said in an interview Wednesday. "So one alternative is to look for ways to grow through acquisitions." ExpressJet "would be just one opportunity we see," Rich said, declining to name other potential targets for the St. George-based airline. SkyWest operates commuter flights for UAL Corp.'s United ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 14, 2008-04-22 SkyWest Names Development Director

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. has named Justin Esplin director of application development. Esplin replaces Duane Tanner, who retired earlier this month. In his new role, Esplin will oversee the development, acquisition and implementation of application software and systems for Atlantic Southeast Airlines (ASA) and SkyWest Airlines. He will report to Jim Jensen, vice president – information technology. “Justin has created and supported some of our most critical operational systems,” said Jensen. “He brings tremendous knowledge and experience to his expanded role.” Esplin began his SkyWest career in 2001 as a software developer and m... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 12, 2008-04-08 SkyWest Names Directors

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest Airlines, a subsidiary of SkyWest, Inc., is pleased to promote two of its leaders Randy Mulvey as director – Midwest Connect and Pearl Perrin as director – Delta Connection, effective April 1. Both Mulvey and Perrin will report to Steve Black, director – stations. “We are very pleased to promote these SkyWest leaders to our station operations leadership team,” said Black. “Both Pearl and Randy bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and most importantly, a passion for our people to their positions.” Mulvey will oversee daily ground operations of SkyWest’s rapidly growing Midwest Connect system, including 168 daily departures at 28 stations. He will also continue to oversee SkyWest ground operations throughout the airline’s Chicago region. Mulvey brings extensive industry knowledge and experience to his new role. In his tenure at SkyWest, he has served in several leadership positions, including station manager and most recently Chicago regional director. Before joining SkyWest, Mulvey worked in several capacities at United Airlines. As director – Delta Connection, Perrin will be responsible for leading SkyWest Delta Connection ground operations, focusing on continued customer satisfaction, exceptional on-time and baggage performance. She will also work closely with all internal and external partners to ensure industry-leading safe, efficient and quality operations at over 95 domestic and international airport operations. Perrin came to SkyWest as a station manager in 2001 and most recently served as regional director – Delta Connection ground operations. In this capacity, she oversaw the daily operations of 15 SkyWest stations. Prior to joining SkyWest, Perrin held various management positions at United Airlines.

Volume 9, Issue 15, 2006-11-20 SkyWest Names New Directors Three promoted in airline

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest Airlines is pleased to announce the appointment of three new directors as a result of a realignment within the People Department: Suzanne Stephensen as director -- people programs and recruitment; Ryan Quinlan as director -- employee relations, compensation and performance and Amber Hunter director -- corporate communications, development and marketing. All three directors will report to Necia Clark-Mantle, vice president -- people, at the airlines' corporate headquarters in St. George, Utah. Stephensen will be responsible for corporate recruitment and people programs, which includes employment administration, recognition, travel center, tra... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 4, 2007-03-19 SkyWest Names New President Vice presidents also appointed

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest Airlines has announced that Russell "Chip" Childs has been named president and chief operating officer. Childs will replace Ron Reber as president and COO. The transition begins immediately, and Childs will officially enter his new role April 2. Childs came to SkyWest as senior director - controller in January 2001 and was named vice president - controller later that year. As president, Childs will be responsible for the airline's operational, strategic and fiscal success. To fill Childs' previous position the airline announced Eric Woodward will assume responsibilities as Vice President - Controller. In his new position, Woodward wi... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 8, 2008-03-04 SkyWest Names New Safety Director

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest Airlines, a subsidiary of SkyWest, Inc., has named David W. Faddis director of its enhanced SkyWest operations safety and compliance department, effective March 10. Faddis takes on the position as the airline centralizes and expands the scope of its safety department to further align its programs with its safety first culture. In the new role, Faddis will report to Russell "Chip" Childs, SkyWest Airlines president and chief operating officer, and will be responsible for all safety and security programs, auditing and compliance throughout the airline's operation, including flight operations, maintenance, ground operations and passenger safety. ... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 37, 2007-11-16 SkyWest Names New VP

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest Airlines is pleased to announce the promotion of Lori Hunt to Vice President - People effective Nov. 19. Hunt will replace Necia Clark-Mantle, who after 21 years with the airline is leaving SkyWest to pursue educational opportunities. In her role Hunt will oversee branding, recruitment, human resources functions, government and legal affairs, corporate communications, corporate culture and development. Hunt's tenure with the company spans more than two decades, beginning in 1985 as a reservation sales agent in St. George. Hunt worked as a customer service agent in San Luis Obispo, Calif., before becoming station manager in Palm Springs, the... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 2, 2008-01-15 SkyWest Names Vice President

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest Airlines is pleased to announce the promotion of Klen P. Brooks to vice president - flight operations, effective immediately. Brooks replaces Bradford R. Holt, who in December was named president and chief operating officer of SkyWest's sister carrier, Atlantic Southeast Airlines. As vice president - flight operations, Brooks will be responsible for all areas of flight operations, including the airline's flight standards, flight control and crew scheduling, and will oversee the development and implementation of operational policies and procedures to ensure the highest possible level of safety and efficiency. Brooks' SkyWest career began in 1... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 15, 2008-04-29 SkyWest Offers to Buy ExpressJet

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest Inc. has offered  $3.50 a share cash buy ExpressJet Holdings.   The bid, tendered Friday, April 25, represented a 67 percent premium to the previous day’s closing price of $2.09 for ExpressJet.   ExpressJet said a special committee had unanimously rejected the buyout proposal by SkyWest, saying it believed the fair value of the stock is “substantially higher” than the current bid, which “does not fully and fairly reflect the inherent value of ExpressJet or its prospects.”   SkyWest said it was “disappointed” about the rejection of the bid, and also said it was “dismayed” that ExpressJet did not honor its request to begin due diligence at the time SkyWest made its proposal. "We believe our offer is consistent with our strategy of pursuing viable opportunities to enhance shareholder value, while also offering value to Continental through a new code-share relationship" said Bradford R. Rich, SkyWest Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, in a written statement. "Based upon the information available to us, and subject to the completion of due diligence which we hope to undertake promptly, we believe a transaction can be structured with ExpressJet which would be accretive to our shareholders."   The St. George-based air carrier said it plans to review its alternatives with regard to its bid for ExpressJet, which could include altering or withdrawing its proposal.

Volume 7, Issue 15, 2004-08-30 SkyWest Opens yet another Maintenance Base and Crew Domicile

SkyWest Airlines announced recently the opening of a maintenance base and crew domicile in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The new facility began operations August 1, 2004, and will be fully operational by December of this year. “With our route structure, Colorado Springs is a natural location for aircraft and crew overnights. As we continue our eastward expansion, it makes an excellent strategic location for a maintenance and crew facility.” said Ron Reber, SkyWest Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “Additionally, we've enjoyed an excellent rapport with Colorado Springs in the past, and the community's forward-looking leadership is exciting to work with.” SkyWest will lease a hangar on the airport grounds while plans are being developed to build a new on-site facility. The SkyWest maintenance team will provide various overnight maintenance functions for the airline's fleet of Bombardier manufactured 50-passenger and 70-passenger Canadair Regional Jets. “Depending on the final number of overnights established in our Delta Connection and United Express operation, we could employ more than 135 maintenance personnel and up to 150 crew members,” continued Reber. SkyWest will hold a special recruiting event for flight attendants at the Radisson Colorado Springs on Thursday, June 3, at 5:00 p.m. To learn more about the event, or how to join SkyWest's team of more than 6,700 aviation professionals, visit www.skywest.com > careers > recruiting events. SkyWest Airlines was named the number one on-time airline in the United States by the Department of Transportation for 2003, a year in which they carried 10.7 million passengers. System-wide, SkyWest serves a total of 111 cities in 29 states and three Canadian provinces with more than 1,300 daily departures.

Volume 10, Issue 32, 2007-10-12 SkyWest Pilots Voting on Union

ST. GEORGE - Pilots for SkyWest Airlines are voting on whether to join the nation's largest pilot union, the Salt Lake Tribune reports. An Air Line Pilots Association spokesman said 2,700 SkyWest pilots will cast ballots by telephone in an election run by the National Mediation Board. Voting will end Nov. 6. In August, ALPA asked the mediation board for an election to decide if SkyWest pilots want to be represented by the union. ALPA said it made the request after receiving enough cards from pilots authorizing the union to request a collective bargaining vote. SkyWest pilots have tried twice since 1999 to affiliate with a union. The last effort i... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 29, 2008-08-13 SkyWest Profits Down 10 Percent Revenue rise 11 percent in Q2

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest Inc. last week reported a 10.3 percent drop in profits for the second quarter of 2008, compared with the same period in 2007. The airline blamed the decrease on increased maintenance costs and ongoing disputes with partner carriers. SkyWest said second-quarter profits this year were $36.4 million, or 63 cents per share, compared with $40.6 million, or 62 cents per share, for the same period one year earlier. Operating revenues in the second quarter of this year increased 11.2 percent to ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 42, 2008-11-12 SkyWest Profits Down in Q3 Airline reports 35% decline

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest Inc. has reported a 35 percent decrease in profits during the third quarter of 2008 compared with the same period last year. The St. George-based parent of SkyWest Airlines and Atlantic Southeast Airlines said net income for the third quarter this year was $26.2 million, compared with net income of $42.9 million for the same period in 2007. The company attributed the decline to increased fuel costs and higher operating expenses. The carrier reported operating revenues of $934.1 million for third quarter this year, compared with $875.6 million for the third quarter of 2007.<... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 17, 2008-05-13 SkyWest Q1 Income Dips Board declares dividend, authorizes shares buyback

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. last week reported lower income for the first quarter after some of the company’s partner airlines cut back on their number of flights to deal with record high fuel prices. SkyWest, which provides feeder flights for three partner airlines, reported operating revenues of $868 million for the quarter ended March 31, a 10 percent increase, compared to the same period last year. The regional airline also reported net income of $29.1 million for the quarter, a decrease of 16.2 percent, or $0.47 per share compared to $34.8 million of net income or $0.53 per share, for the same period last year. SkyWest continued repurchasing shares ... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 11, 2007-05-07 SkyWest Q1 Net Income Flat

ST. GEORGE Ò€’ SkyWest Inc. has reported flat net income for the quarter ended March 31, while operating revenues grew by 6.2 percent. The regional airline company said net income for the period was $34.8 million, or 53 cents per share compared to $34.6 million, or 57 cents per share, for the same quarter in 2006. Operating revenues totaled $789 million, up from $742.9 million a year earlier. Both figures fell short of consensus Wall Street expectations. Analysts had expected net income of 59 cents a share and revenues of $823.4 million. SkyWest shares dropped 45 cents, or 1.6 percent, after results were announced May 2 to close at $2... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 3, 2008-01-22 SkyWest Q4 Earnings Call Set

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. will host a conference call on Friday, Feb. 8, to discuss the company's fourth quarter 2007 earnings results at 9 a.m. MST. The call will provide an overview of the results followed by a question and answer session. The call-in number for domestic callers is 1-866-322-0204. International callers should use this number, 1-706-679-2328. The conference ID number is 30980293 Callers are asked to dial in ten minutes before the scheduled hour to insure a prompt starting time. If you have any questions, please contact Tevya Hilsmann at (435) 634-3203. Interested parties can also access the call live via PR Newswire Webcast ... Read More

Volume 8, Issue 13, 2005-07-18 SkyWest Receives FAA's Aviation Maintenance Technician Gold Award

SkyWest Airlines has recently been honored by the receipt of the FAA's Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) Gold Award for their outstanding attendance in initial and recurrent maintenance training. Mike Gibson, Vice President of Maintenance, said, “I applaud our maintenance personnel for taking advantage of the training and resources they have available to them. Their dedication reaffirms SkyWest's commitment to a Safety First culture and keeps SkyWest a leader in the airline industry.” Gibson added “SkyWest is the proud recipient of the Gold Certificate of Excellence, as 15 percent of their eligible employees received individual AMT awards. AMT awards are presented to companies based on the percentage of employees who receive individual AMT awards each year.” Special recognition goes to the SkyWest employees in Colorado Springs, Denver, Dallas, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Tucson for Diamond level participation in the program. In addition, Portland earned a Ruby Award and Salt Lake City a Silver Award. Each of the five award levels, beginning with the Bronze Award and ending with the Diamond Award, require additional training beyond standard FAA training on regulations and policy. Editor's note: SkyWest Airlines was named the Number One On-Time Mainland Airline in the United States by the Department of Transportation for 2004, a year in which they carried 13.4 million passengers. System-wide, SkyWest has approximately 8,500 employees and serves a total of 106 cities in 30 states and three Canadian provinces with approximately 1,500 daily departures.

Volume 10, Issue 28, 2007-09-14 SkyWest Reports August Traffic

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. reported a 19 percent increase in revenue passenger miles for August, while available seat miles increased 15.6 percent compared to the same period last year. SkyWest Airlines and Atlantic Southeast Airlines generated 1.69 billion RPMs for the month, while ASMs increased to 2.09 billion. Load factor was up 2.3 percentage points to 80.6 percent compared to 78.3 percent for the same period last year. Passenger boardings for August totaled 3,191,037, a 13.9 percent increase over August 2006. SkyWest Airlines, based in St. George, and ASA, based in Atlanta, are wholly owned subsidiaries of SkyWest, Inc. SkyWest Airlines operates as Unit... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 7, 2008-02-19 SkyWest Reports Combined January Traffic

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. reported a 3.4 percent increase in revenue passenger miles (RPMs) for January, while available seat miles (ASMs) increased 5.1 percent compared to the same period last year. SkyWest's two subsidiary airlines generated 1.31 billion RPMs for the month, while ASMs increased to 1.84 billion. Load factor was down 1.2 percentage points to 71.0 percent compared to 72.2 percent for the same period last year. Passenger boardings for January totaled 2,525,151 a 1.6 percent increase over January 2007. SkyWest, Inc. is the parent company of SkyWest Airlines, based in St. George, and Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Inc., based in Atlanta. ... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 2, 2009-01-19 Skywest Reports December Traffic December boardings over 2.6 million! By Michael J. Kraupp VP Finance and Treasurer

ST. GEORGE --SkyWest, Inc. (NASDAQ: SKYW) reported a 9.1 percent decrease in available seat miles (ASMs) for December, while revenue passenger miles (RPMs) decreased by 3.3 percent compared to the same period last year. The combined airlines generated 1.7 billion ASMs and 1.3 billion RPMs for the month. Load factor was up 4.6 percentage points to 78.2% compared to 73.6% for the same period last year. Passenger boardings for December totaled 2,634,566 a 1.9 ... Read More

Volume 8, Issue 18, 2005-10-17 SkyWest Reports Increases

ST. GEORGE, UT - SkyWest, Inc. reported a 104.7 percent increase in revenue passenger miles (RPMs) for September, while available seat miles (ASMs) increased 108.6 percent compared to the same period last year. The airline generated 1,037.1 million RPMs for the month, while ASMs increased to 1,417.0 million. Load factor was down 1.4 percentage points to 73.2 percent compared to 74.6 percent for the same period last year. Passenger boardings for September totaled 2,140,407 a 75.3 percent increase over September 2004. SkyWest, Inc. completed the acquisition of Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Inc., (ASA) on September 7, 2005 with the first day of operations being September 8, 2005. As ... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 40, 2007-12-18 SkyWest Reports November Traffic

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. reported a 10.7 percent increase in revenue passenger miles (RPMs) for its two subsidiary airlines in November, while available seat miles (ASMs) increased 12.3 percent compared to the same period last year. The combined airlines generated 1.44 billion RPMs for the month, while ASMs increased to 1.90 billion. Load factor was down 1.1 percentage points to 75.6 percent compared to 76.7 percent for the same period last year. Passenger boardings for November totaled 2,805,725 a 10.4 percent increase over November 2006. The two airlines, SkyWest Airlines, based in St. George, and Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Inc., based in Atlanta, are whol... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 37, 2007-11-16 SkyWest Reports October Traffic

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc.,. reported a 14.1 percent increase in revenue passenger miles (RPMs) for October, while available seat miles (ASMs) increased 14.8 percent compared to the same period last year. The combined airlines generated 1.56 billion RPMs for the month, while ASMs increased to 2.02 billion. Load factor was down .4 percentage points to 77.6 percent compared to 78.0 percent for the same period last year. Passenger boardings for October totaled 3,007,347 a 12 percent increase over October 2006. SkyWest Airlines, based in St. George, Utah, and Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Inc. ("ASA"), based in Atlanta, Georgia are wholly owned subsidiaries of SkyWes... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 11, 2008-04-01 SkyWest Scaling New Industry Heights

SkyWest Airlines ranks high in every industry insider’s estimation, a regional carrier that has attained astonishing growth in its 36-year history, says Aviation Week magazine in a recent article. The one-time puddle-jumper deposed American Eagle in 2006 from its long-held perch as the No. 1 regional airline. With aircraft departures increasing 12 percent last year to well over 600,000 and enplaned passengers topping 19.5 million, SkyWest is likely to become ranked among the leading carriers in the departure category, outshining even most of the mainline airlines on the Air Transport Association registry. SkyWest is scaling these heights with the humble missi... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 15, 2008-04-29 SkyWest Schedules Earnings Call

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. has scheduled a conference call Wednesday, May 7, at 9 a.m. MDT to discuss first quarter 2008 earnings The format will be to provide an overview of the results followed by a question and answer session. The call-in number for domestic callers is 1-800-860-2442. The call-in number for international dialers is 1-412-858-4600. The conference ID # is 418725 Callers are asked to call ten minutes before the scheduled hour to insure a prompt starting time. For more information, please contact Tevya Hilsmann at (435) 634-3203. Interested parties can also access the call live via PR Newswire Webcast at: http://www.videonewsw... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 13, 2008-04-15 SkyWest Sees Increased Traffic in March

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. reported a 2.2 percent increase in revenue passenger miles (RPMs) for March, while available seat miles (ASMs) increased 3.0 percent compared to the same period last year. The combined airlines generated 1.56 billion RPMs for the month, while ASMs increased to 1.97 billion. Load factor was down 0.6 percentage points to 79.2 percent compared to 79.8 percent for the same period last year. Passenge... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 27, 2008-07-30 SkyWest Sets Conference Call Q2 2008 earnings to be announced

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc has scheduled a conference call for Wednesday, Aug. 6 at 9 a.m. local time to discuss the company's second quarter 2008 earnings results. An overview of the results will be followed by a question and answer session. The call-in number for domestic callers is 1-800-860-2442. Those dialing internationally should call 1-412-858-4600. The conference ID number is 421346 Callers are asked to call ten minutes before the scheduled hour to insure a prompt starting time. If you have any questions, please contact Tevya Hilsmann at (435) 634-3203. Interested parties can also... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 34, 2007-10-26 SkyWest Sets Quarterly Results Call

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. will host a conference call on Wednesday, Nov. 7 at 9 a.m. MST to discuss third quarter 2007 earnings results. The call format will provide an overview of the financial results followed by a question and answer session. The call-in number for domestic callers is 1-866-322-0204 The call-in number for international dialers is 1-706-679-2328 The conference ID # is 21618868 Those interested should call ten minutes before the scheduled hour to insure a prompt starting time. If you have any questions, please contact Tevya Hilsmann at 435-634-3203. Interested parties can also access the call live v... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 33, 2007-10-19 SkyWest To Acquire 22 New Aircraft

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. and United Airlines have announced that SkyWest plans to acquire 22 additional regional jet aircraft. Some 18 of the aircraft will fly for United Express, allowing SkyWest to retire 23 of its 30-seat turboprop aircraft to make room for 66-seat regional jets. Additionally, SkyWest will swap 4 CRJ200 50-seat regional jet aircraft for 4 regional jet aircraft configured with 76 seats under its Delta Connection banner. SkyWest, Inc. currently has not selected a manufacturer for these aircraft, however it will begin discussions with both Bombardier and Embraer as potential suppliers. It is anticipated that deliveries would begin in late 20... Read More

Volume 8, Issue 14, 2005-08-22 Skywest to Acquire Atlantic Southeast Airlines

St. George, Utah - SkyWest announced last week that it has entered into an agreement to acquire all of the outstanding stock of Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Inc. (“ASA”), a wholly-owned regional airline subsidiary of Delta Air Lines, Inc. for a purchase price of $425 million. In addition, SkyWest has agreed to return to Delta $50 million of aircraft deposits. At closing, Delta will receive $350 million in cash, representing $330 million of the purchase price and $20 million relating to the return of certain aircraft financing deposits. An additional $125 million representing $95 million of the purchase price and $30 million relating to the return of cer... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 23, 2009-06-29 SkyWest to Discontinue St. George – Los Angeles Service

ST GEORGE, UTAH - SkyWest Airlines has announced that it plans to discontinue scheduled United Express flights between St. George, Utah and Los Angeles, Calif., effective September 1, 2009, citing its strategy to reduce select flights that cannot be profitable in light of weakened demand and an unsettled fuel environment.  "Although SkyWest would prefer to continue offering customers the convenience of scheduled air service between St. George and Los Angeles, we are proactively responding to soft demand and... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 23, 2007-08-03 SkyWest to Hold Career Fair - Aug. 7

ST. GEORGE — SkyWest Airlines will host a career fair Tuesday, Aug. 7 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Red Lion Hotel, 161 W. 600 South, Salt Lake City. Tuesday's event will include information for positions ranging from flight attendants, customer service and ramp agents, pilots and maintenance personnel; and interview opportunities for customer service and ramp agent positions. SkyWest's ‘Total Rewards’ compensation package includes a combination of any of the following: health benefits, stock purchase and 401(k) plans, and a groundbreaking ‘Performance Rewards’ incentive program tied to the company's operational goa... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 3, 2009-01-26 Skywest to Operate 10 additional New Regional Jet Aircraft ASA subsidiary to operate fleet as Delta Connection out of Atlanta hub By Michael J. Kraupp

St. George - SkyWest announced recently that it has reached an agreement with Delta Air Lines to operate an additional 10 CRJ900 regional jet aircraft. The aircraft were previously ordered by Delta and are now being contracted for flying with SkyWest, Inc. wholly owned subsidiary, Atlantic Southeast Airlines ("ASA"). ASA is the principal Delta Connection carrier at Delta's Atlanta hub, and currently operates 110 CRJ200s and 39 CRJ700s. The 10 CRJ900 aircraft feature all leather, 76-seat, two-class configurations. ASA expects certification for the CRJ900 in the spring of 2009, with aircraft deliveries scheduled between February and May 2009. The aircraft will serve as ... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 31, 2007-10-05 SkyWest to Return to Cedar City Feds award air service contract to local airline

ST. GEORGE— SkyWest Airlines has announced that the United States Department of Transportation has selected the airline to provide federally subsidized Essential Air Service to Cedar City for the next two years. Flying under the Delta Connection banner, SkyWest will operate two daily round-trip flights between Cedar and Salt Lake City with the 30-passenger Embraer Brasilia turboprop aircraft. SkyWest will receive an annual subsidy of $1.2 million. ‘Cedar City is part of our history, and we're pleased the DOT recognizes the value of SkyWest's service,’ said Mike Thompson, SkyWest's Vice President of Market Development. ‘Air s... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 34, 2008-09-17 SkyWest Traffic Down in August Passenger boardings drop almost 5%

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. reported a 7.2 percent decrease in available seat miles (ASMs) for August, while revenue passenger miles (RPMs) decreased by 8.6 percent compared to the same period last year. The combined airlines, SkyWest Airlines and Atlantic Southeast Airlines based in Atlanta, Ga., generated 1.9 billion ASMs and 1.5 billion RPMs for the month. Load factor was down 1.2 percentage points to 79.4 percent compared to 80.6 percent for the same period last year. Passenger boardings for August totaled 3,038,873, a 4.8 percent decrease over August 2007. SkyWest Airlines and Atlantic Southeast Airlines are... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 22, 2008-06-25 SkyWest Traffic Down in May Off almost 3 percent from last year

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. (reported a 2.9 percent decrease in available seat miles (ASMs) for the company's combined airline operations in May, while revenue passenger miles (RPMs) decreased by 5.0 percent compared to the same period last year. The combined airlines, SkyWest Airlines and Atlantic Southeast Airlines, generated 1.89 billion ASMs for the month, while RPMs increased to 1.49 billion. Load factor for the month was down... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 38, 2008-10-15 SkyWest Traffic Down in September Passengers decline by 8 percent

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. reported an 11.1 percent decrease in available seat miles (ASMs) for September, while revenue passenger miles (RPMs) decreased by 10.5 percent compared to the same period last year. The company's airlines generated 1.7 billion total ASMs and 1.3 billion RPMs for the month. Load factor was up 0.5 percentage points to 76.5 percent compared to 76.0 percent for the same period last year. Passenger boardings for September totaled 2,553,073 a 7.9 percent decrease over September 2007. SkyWest Airlines, based in St. George, and Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Inc., based in ... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 37, 2009-11-23 SkyWest, AirTran Forge New Partnership Partnership Increases Frequencies and Destinations from General Mitchell International Airport By Marissa Snow

ST. GEORGE, UTAH - SkyWest Airlines, Inc and AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: AAI), announced recently that the airlines have secured a new marketing partnership to operate five 50-seat Bombardier CRJ200 aircraft between Milwaukee's General Mitchell International Airport and six destinations. Under the new partnership, it is anticipated that SkyWest Airlines will offer new nonstop service from Milwaukee to Akron/Canton, Ohio; Des Moines, Iowa; and Omaha, Neb.; and will add frequency from Milwaukee to Indianapolis, Ind.; Pittsburgh, Pa.; and St. Louis, Mo. SkyWest Airlines will launch its first flights carrying the AirTran Airways' code from Milwaukee to Pittsburgh and St. Louis beginning... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 27, 2007-09-07 SkyWest, ASA Pilots Still At Odds

SkyWest Inc.'s Atlantic Southeast Airlines unit failed to reach a labor agreement with its pilots after discussions this week involving a federal mediator, prolonging a five-year-old dispute, according to news reports. Atlantic Southeast and union officials held talks with a National Mediation Board representative for two days this week, then met separately with the agency, said Rick Bernskoetter, spokesman for the 1,600-member pilots union. He said no progress was made in the negotiations, which focus on salaries, back pay, job protection and profit sharing. The airline, which operates about 870 daily flights for Delta Air Lines Inc., is waiting to hear... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 33, 2007-10-19 SkyWest, Inc. Reports Combined September Traffic

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. reported a 14 percent increase in revenue passenger miles (RPMs) for September, while available seat miles (ASMs) increased 12.9 percent compared to the same period last year. The combined airlines of SkyWest Inc. generated 1.44 billion RPMs for the month, while ASMs increased to 1.90 billion. Load factor was 76.0 percent compared to 75.2 percent for the same period last year. Passenger boardings for September totaled 2,770,798, an 11.9 percent increase over September 2006. SkyWest Airlines, based in St. George, Utah, and ASA, based in Atlanta, Georgia are wholly owned subsidiaries of SkyWest, Inc. SkyWest Airlines operates as United ... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 23, 2007-08-03 Skywest, Mesa Air Submit Bids For Cedar City Air Service Mesa bids for contract it just dumped

CEDAR CITY - The U.S. Department of Transportation has confirmed that two carriers have submitted bids to replace Mesa Airlines as the essential air service contractor serving Cedar City. It's no surprise that St. George-based SkyWest Airlines is one of the bidders. But it was a shock to some local officials to learn that the other bidder is Air Midwest, which like Mesa Airlines is a subsidiary of Mesa Air Group. Mesa Airlines was awarded the Cedar City essential air service contract last year after underbidding SkyWest, which previously had held the contract for almost 30 years. But after just over a year of service plagued by flight cancellation... Read More

Volume 7, Issue 13, 2004-07-26 SkyWest's Most Senior Employee and Pilot of 32 Years Retires

Captain Earl Snow Celebrates a Phenomenal Career SkyWest Airlines recently announced the retirement of its most senior employee and pilot of 32 years, Captain Earl Snow. To celebrate his phenomenal career, SkyWest held a reception honoring Captain Snow at the Salt Lake City International Airport. The reception took take place on Tuesday, June 29, after his last flight arrived from Billings, Montana. “It is with mixed emotions and great appreciation that we bid farewell to a man who has defined what it means to be part of the SkyWest family for more than three decades,” said SkyWest founder and Board of Directors member J. Ralph Atkin. “When we hir... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 40, 2009-12-15 SL COUNTY Poised To ... ... Prohibit Sexual Orientation Job Bias By Michael Patrick O'Brien, Esq.

Salt Lake County is poised to follow the lead of Salt Lake City and prohibit employers within the county’s boundaries from discriminating on the basis of sexual orientation.  As you will recall from these updates, Salt Lake City Council recently enacted an ordinance prohibiting private employers (i.e. those with 15 or more employees within the SLC limits) from discriminating in employment matters against “otherwise qualified” persons (both applicants and employees) based on sexual orientation or gender identity.  State entities (except SLC), religious organizations and “expressive organizations” are exempted from the ordinance.  “Sexual Orientation” is defined in the ordinance as... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 20, 2008-06-04 SLC CFOs Expect Increased Q3 Hiring Survey finds local projection above national results

SALT LAKE CITY - The hiring of full-time accounting and finance professionals in the Salt Lake City area is expected to increase in the third quarter of 2008, according to the most recent Robert Half International Financial Hiring Index. Ten percent of chief financial officers surveyed plan to add staff during the quarter and 3 percent anticipate reductions in personnel. The net 7 percent increase is up nine points from the area's second-quarter 2008 forecast and seven points above the national average. The local results reflect a two-quarter rolling average based on interviews with 200 CFOs from a stratified random sample of companies in the Salt Lake City area with 20 or more employees.... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 16, 2008-05-06 Slight Economic Growth Says U.S. Not in Recession

It may feel like the U.S. economy is in a recession, but according to new government figures it just isn't so. The U.S. Commerce Department is reporting that the economy limped through the first quarter of this year at a 0.6 percent growth rate -- the same rate recorded for the fourth quarter of 2007. That growth rate is small, but it beat expectations and proves that the economy is not in a recession. The generally accepted definition of a recession is six months of stagnant or negative growth. Earlier this year, some economists thought the economy would lurch into reverse during the opening quarter. Now, they say they believe that likely will happen during ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 28, 2008-08-06 Slow Economy Cuts Small Biz Income Profits down at 42 percent of firms, Arizona survey says

Small businesses in Arizona painted a gloomy picture on profits during the second quarter of 2008. Forty-two percent of Arizona Small Business Association members polled said their profits decreased over the past 12 months, according to a Silver State Bank/ASBA/O'Neil Associates Arizona Economic Indicators Monitor survey. Twenty-eight percent of small businesses reported higher profits. In a similar poll during the first quarter of 2008, 41 percent of small businesses reporter higher profits. The second-quarter drop occurred despite overall levels of revenues and expenditures that were virtually... Read More

Volume 9, Issue 11, 2006-08-07 Slowing U.S. Growth Impacts Utah Small Business By Jeff Thredgold

Two factors that have frequently derailed prior U.S. economic expansions continue to negatively impact the nation's economy. A 17th consecutive quarter-point rise in the Federal Reserve's critical federal funds rate to 5.25 percent will inflict more financing pain on millions of America's small businesses. In addition, record high oil prices of $73 - $75 per barrel continue to drain additional funds from consumer spending, leaving less for more traditional purchases. The combination of these factors suggests U.S. economic growth will run near a 3.0 percent real (after inflation) annual rate over 2006's final six months, with a similar forecast for growth in 2007. By comparison,... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 12, 2007-05-14 Sluggish U.S. Economic Growth Likely to Strengthen Thredgold Economic Associates By Jeff Thredgold

Highlights - Washington County payrolls expanded by 2,800 jobs (5.5 percent) in the past year. The unemployment rate was 2.4 percent in the latest month, down from 2.9 percent one year ago - The Zions Bank Small Business Index for Utah was 104.9 in April 2007, up from a revised 104.5 in March 2007 - Utah's unemployment rate was estimated at 2.4 percent in the latest month, up from the prior month's 2.3 percent rate. Total Utah employment is up an estimated 53,500 jobs during the past 12 months - Sluggish U.S. economic growth of the past 12 months is expected to give way to stronger growth over the next 4-5 quarters, providing a boost fo... Read More

Volume 9, Issue 8, 2006-05-22 Small and Midsized Manufacturers Play Critical Role in Future of Us Economy Tom Bingham

The future of U.S. manufacturing depends primarily on the continued success of small and midsized manufacturers according to a report recently released by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) and The Manufacturing Institute (TMI). The report, "The Future Success of Small and Medium Manufacturers: Challenges and Policy Issues," highlights the critical role small and midsized businesses play in the future of America's manufacturing sector. It is the first significant post-9/11 report on the state and future of small and midsized manufacturers. RSM McGladrey, a business services provider, sponsored the report. RSM McGladrey has continually dedicated its servic... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 40, 2008-10-29 Small Biz Background Motivates New Hire Fairbourn joins HintonBurdick

ST. GEORGE - Brittney Fairbourn, a recent graduate of Brigham Young University with a Masters in Tax Accountancy, has joined the staff of HintonBurdick CPAs & Advisors Business Services, partner Phillip Peine has announced. Fairbourn will work out of the firm's St. George office and, according to Peine, brings a strong small business focus to the firm. "Not only did she grow up with a father who owned a small business," Peine said, "but her resume also includes four years of experience doing small business accounting for companies in Orem and Provo." Fairbourn also earned her ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 2, 2008-01-15 Small Biz Day at Legislature Scheduled - Feb. 11

SALT LAKE CITY - The National Federation of Independent Business will hold the third annual Utah Small-Business Day at the Capitol from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Feb. 11 at the state Capitol complex in Salt Lake City. The agenda includes: - Small-business issues presentation and discussion led by NFIB/Utah State Director Candace Daly. - Observation of the session in progress. - Member and legislator recognition. - Lunch with legislators. - All legislators have been invited to the lunch program. - Network with legislators about issues that matter to you! Cost to attend ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 3, 2008-01-22 Small Biz Day at Legislature Scheduled - Feb. 11

SALT LAKE CITY - The National Federation of Independent Business will hold the third annual Utah Small-Business Day at the Capitol from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Feb. 11 at the state Capitol complex in Salt Lake City. The agenda includes: - Small-business issues presentation and discussion led by NFIB/Utah State Director Candace Daly. - Observation of the session in progress. - Member and legislator recognition. - Lunch with legislators. - All legislators have been invited to the lunch program. - Network with legislators about issues that matter to you! Cost to attend ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 4, 2008-01-29 Small Biz Day at Legislature Scheduled - Feb. 11

SALT LAKE CITY - The National Federation of Independent Business will hold the third annual Utah Small-Business Day at the Capitol from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Feb. 11 at the state Capitol complex in Salt Lake City. The agenda includes: - Small-business issues presentation and discussion led by NFIB/Utah State Director Candace Daly. - Observation of the session in progress. - Member and legislator recognition. - Lunch with legislators. - All legislators have been invited to the lunch program. - Network with legislators about issues that matter to you! Cost to attend ... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 1, 2007-01-22 Small Business Favors Education Funding Hike Mild surprise from poll of Utah business owners

SALT LAKE CITY - In a poll of Utah small-business owners released recently, increased education funding received a mildly surprising thumbs up. “Small-business owners are no different than anyone else in valuing and supporting education,” said Candace Daly, Utah state director for the National Federation of Independent Business, “but as community leaders and entrepreneurs they take a much wider view of all government has to do or not do. “As primary contributors of state taxes, small-business owners know that education funding has never lacked being a legislative priority for financial support, even in a time of economic recessions, ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 6, 2008-02-12 Small Business Index

For January 2008 Source: Thredgold Economic Associates... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 2, 2007-02-19 Small Business Index Continues Downtrend But modest inflation, solid economic growth help Thredgold Economic Associates By Jeff Thredgold,

SALT LAKE CITY - The Zions Bank Small Business Index for Utah was 107.3 during January 2007, down from a revised 116.8 during December 2006. The Index measures business conditions from the viewpoint of the Utah small business owner or manager. A lower Index number is associated with less favorable business "conditions" for Utah's small businesses. The Index uses 100.0 for calendar year 1997 as its base year. The Index includes revisions to various historical and new forecast components as they become available. Local Performance Washington County payrolls expanded by 4,100 jobs (8.3 percent) in the past year. The unemployment rate was 2.2 percent in t... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 22, 2008-06-25 Small Business Index Continues to Fall Weakness in home construction hurts small business By Jeff Thredgold

The Zions Bank Small Business Index for Utah was 89.3 during May 2008, down from a revised 91.2 during April 2008. The Index measures business conditions from the viewpoint of the Utah small business owner or manager. A lower Index number is associated with less favorable business "conditions" for Utah's small businesses. The Index uses 100.0 for calendar year 1997 as its base year. The Index includes revisions to various historical and new forecast components as they become available. Washington County payrolls expanded by 1,100 jobs (2.1 percent) in the past year. The unemployment rate was... Read More

Volume 9, Issue 16, 2006-12-18 Small Business Index Drops Again Area employers struggle with extremely tight labor availability Thredgold Economic Associates By Jeff Thredgold

The Zions Bank Small Business Index for Utah was 110.8 during November 2006, down from a revised 112.2 during October. The Index measures business conditions from the viewpoint of the Utah small business owner or manager. A lower Index number is associated with less favorable business "conditions" for Utah's small businesses. The Index uses 100.0 for calendar year 1997 as its base year. The Index includes revisions to various historical or forecast components as they become available. Local Performance Washington County payrolls expanded by 4,200 jobs (8.7 percent) in the past year. The unemployment rate was 2.0 percent in the latest month, down fro... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 6, 2009-02-23 Small Business Index for Utah, January 2009 Release Recession Could Continue Throughout 2009, Hurting Washington County By Jeff Thredgold

HIGHLIGHTS The Zions Bank Small Business Index for Utah was 67.5 in January 2009, down from a revised 68.8 in December 2008   Utah's unemployment rate was estimated at 4.3% in the latest month, up from the prior month's 3.7% rate.  Total Utah employment is down an estimated 24,600 jobs during the past 12 months Washington County payrolls declined by 2,700 jobs (-5.0%) in the past year.  The unemployment rate was 5.2% in the latest month, up from 3.0% one year ago   The current U.S. recession, which... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 29, 2008-08-13 Small Business Index Slides Again Washington County shows negative job growth By Jeff Thredgold Thredgold Economic Associates

The Zions Bank Small Business Index for Utah was 84.3 during July 2008, down from a revised 86.7 during June 2008. The Index measures business conditions from the viewpoint of the Utah small business owner or manager. A lower Index number is associated with less favorable business "conditions" for Utah's small businesses. The Index uses 100.0 for calendar year 1997 as its base year. The Index includes revisions to various historical and new forecast components as they become available. Local Employment Washington County payrolls contracted by... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 33, 2008-09-10 Small Business Index Stable August figures virtually unchanged from July By Jeff Thredgold Economic Consultant to Zions Bank

The Zions Bank Small Business Index for Utah was 85.2 during August 2008, down slightly from a revised 85.3 during July 2008. The Index measures business conditions from the viewpoint of the Utah small business owner or manager. A lower Index number is associated with less favorable business "conditions" for Utah's small businesses. The Index uses 100.0 for calendar year 1997 as its base year. The Index includes revisions to various historical and new forecast components as they become available. Local Performance Washington County payrolls declined by ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 24, 2008-07-09 Small Business Index Still Dropping Rising inflation pressures hurt businesses By Jeff Thredgold Economic Consultant to Zions Bank

The Zions Bank Small Business Index for Utah was 87.0 during June 2008, down from a revised 88.9 during May 2008. The Index measures business conditions from the viewpoint of the Utah small business owner or manager. A lower Index number is associated with less favorable business "conditions" for Utah's small businesses. The Index uses 100.0 for calendar year 1997 as its base year. The Index includes revisions to various historical and new forecast components as they become available. Washington County payrolls expanded by 800 jobs (1.6 percent) in the past year. The unemployment rate was ... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 1, 2007-01-22 Small Business Index Up in December Solid job growth likely to extend Fed pause Thredgold Economic Associates By Jeff Thredgold,

The Zions Bank Small Business Index for Utah was 111.3 during December 2006, up from a revised 109.9 during November 2006. The Index measures business conditions from the viewpoint of the Utah small business owner or manager. A higher Index number is associated with more favorable business "conditions" for Utah's small businesses. The Index uses 100.0 for calendar year 1997 as its base year. The Index includes revisions to various historical or forecast components as they become available. Local Performance Washington County payrolls expanded by 4,200 jobs (8.6 percent) in the past year. The unemployment rate was 2.0 percent in the latest month, down fro... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 20, 2007-07-13 Small Business Index Up Slightly Thredgold Economic Associates By Jeff Thredgold

The Zions Bank Small Business Index for Utah was 105.4 during June 2007, up from a revised 105.2 during May 2007. The Index measures business conditions from the viewpoint of the Utah small business owner or manager. A higher Index number is associated with more favorable business"conditions" for Utah's small businesses. The Index uses 100.0 for calendar year 1997 as its base year. The Index includes revisions to various historical and new forecast components as they become available. Local Performance Washington County payrolls expanded by 2,700 jobs (5.3 percent) in the past year. The unemployment rate was 2.3 percent in the latest month, down from 2.8 ... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 24, 2007-08-17 Small Business Index Up Slightly Thredgold Economic Associates By Jeff Thredgold ,

The Zions Bank Small Business Index for Utah was 106.5 during July, up from a revised 105.3 during June. The Index measures business conditions from the viewpoint of the Utah small business owner or manager. A higher Index number is associated with more favorable business "conditions" for Utah's small businesses. The Index uses 100.0 for calendar year 1997 as its base year. The Index includes revisions to various historical and new forecast components as they become available. Washington County payrolls expanded by 2,400 jobs (4.5 percent) in the past year. The unemployment rate was 2.3 percent in the latest month, down from 2.8 percent one year ago. ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 33, 2008-09-10 Small Business Marketing Workshop Offered Featuring Duct Tape Marketing 7 Steps to Success

WASHINGTON, Utah - Troy Braithwaite, Utah's Authorized Duct Tape Marketing Coach, will offer a workshop for small business owners - The 7 Steps to Small Business Marketing Success. The workshop be held at Buffalo's Café in Coral Canyon, across from the Holiday Inn on Thursday, Sept. 11 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Registration is $25 per person, and includes lunch and a copy of the book Duct Tape Marketing, by John Jantsch. Duct Tape Marketing's 7 simple steps to small business marketing success will teach small business owners how to attract all the... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 21, 2009-06-15 Small Business Owner Shares Tips on SBA's June Web Chat

WASHINGTON – The SBA’s June Web chat series will highlight small business owner Luis Yepéz, Jr., co-owner of Mainstream Global, Inc. in Lawrence, Mass.  Yépez learned that the Merrimack River had flooded while away on a business trip in 2006.  The company, a distributor of integrated circuits and computer products, was housed on the banks of the Merrimack and sustained severe water, debris and sewage damage.  After losing hundreds of... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 23, 2008-07-02 Small Business Owners Curtail Spending Survey says 75 percent concerned about gas prices

Small business owners are saving and spending less, as consumer goods and fuel costs top records levels, according to the latest Wells Fargo/Gallup Small Business Index survey. More than one-third of the 600 surveyed said their personal financial situation as a whole is getting worse. Seventy-five percent of respondents had concerns about paying for gas, and 51 percent worried they will not have enough money for the next 12 months to cover regular medical and dental expenses. Forty-six percent feared they will not have enough money to pay for... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 40, 2007-12-18 Small Business Owners Feel Squeezed Pay surging health insurance costs or go without coverage From Human Capital Management

ST. GEORGE - After pay, health insurance is the most important inducement small businesses use to recruit and keep workers. Yet more than half the 365 small businesses in a recent survey said their premiums rose by as much as 10 percent this year, and almost one in 10 businesses told the National Association of Professional Employer Organizations they would dump their health coverage next year or are unsure about it. "Although health insurances increases are on the rise, employers do not need to throw in the towel just yet," said Clint Wadsworth, Benefits Consultant and CEO of Human Capital Management in St. George. New online technologies are available that st... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 3, 2009-01-26 Small Business Owners Set Contingency Plans Survey Says Almost Half of Small Business Owners Have Developed Contingency Plans Source: Business Wire

SAN FRANCISCO--Many small business owners say that they're prepared to eliminate some positions or reduce the number of hours employees work as part of their contingency planning for 2009. According to the most recent Wells Fargo/Gallup Small Business Index, surveyed in November, almost half of the small businesses said they have developed a contingency plan in case their company's financial health declines. Fifty-eight percent of those businesses said they would reduce employee hours and 51 percent said they would eliminate some positions if they needed to act on their contingency plans. While they consider what to do in the case of a slowing economy, business owners are... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 40, 2007-12-18 Small Business Owners Vote on Priorities Ballots going out this week

SALT LAKE CITY - The National Federation of Independent Business, a non-profit, nonpartisan small-business advocacy group, is sending out ballots this week to its members in Utah and across the nation. Each year the NFIB centers its state and federal lobbying positions on the issues its members tell the organization are vital for their survival of entrepreneurs. Results from the ballots are communicated to the public, news media, and policymakers - many of whom consider responses to the ballot to be the true voice of small business. "We must constantly remind all stakeholders in an economy that small businesses are not smaller versions of big businesses, but ins... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 24, 2007-08-17 Small Business Tax Credits Extended

The federal government has made some changes to a recently passed small business tax break law. The Work Opportunity Tax Credit Program, which includes tax credits for employers that hire targeted groups, has been extended through August 2011. Other significant changes to the law include an expanded age for the high-risk youth target group, a new rural renewal county zone, a new disabled veteran category, an expanded vocational rehabilitation category, and the waiver of an alternative minimum tax limitation. The Small Business and Work Opportunity Tax Act of 2007, signed into law by Pres. Bush, provides a tax credit that can be as much as $2,400... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 38, 2008-10-15 Small Business Tax Training Scheduled Tax Commission to present two workshops

ST. GEORGE - The Dixie Business Alliance and St. George Area Chamber of Commerce have invited the Utah State Tax Commission to present its Sales & Use Tax and Small Business Employment Tax workshops to the southern Utah business community. The Sales & Use Tax Workshop is slated for Thursday, Oct. 23 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Dixie State College Udvar-Hazy School of Business, Room 230. This workshop is free. The Small Business Employment Tax Workshop will be held on Friday, Oct. 24 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the same location. The cost is $10 and includes lunch. Businesses are encouraged to... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 31, 2007-10-05 Small Business Tax Workshops — Register by Oct. 8

ST. GEORGE — The Dixie Business Alliance, St. George Area Chamber of Commerce, and Utah Tax Commission will present two small business tax workshops Thursday and Friday, Oct. 11 and 12 in room 230 of the Dixie State College Udvar Hazy Building. A free Sales & Use Tax seminar will be held Thursday, Oct. 11 from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Topics to be covered include Tax Terminology, Tax Rates, Tax Schedules, Licensing Requirements, Taxable Transactions, Tax Exemption, Reporting & Remittance, Tax Return Completion, and a question and answer period. On Friday, Oct. 12, an Employment Tax seminar from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. will cover Entity Taxes, Employment Taxes, ... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 15, 2007-06-04 Small Business to Benefit From Stronger Economic Growth Pres., Thredgold Economic Assoc. By Jeff Thredgold, CSP

Highlights The Zions Bank Small Business Index for Utah was 105.4 in May 2007, up from a revised 104.7 in April 2007. Utah's unemployment rate was estimated at 2.5 percent in the latest month, up;from the prior month's 2.4 percent rate. Total Utah employment is up an estimated 54,100 jobs during the past 12 months. Washington County payrolls expanded by 2,800 jobs (5.4 percent) in the past year. The unemployment rate was 2.5 percent in the latest month, down from 3.0 percent one year ago. The state's small business sector should benefit from stronger American economic growth likely to occur over the next 12 months. Th... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 30, 2008-08-20 Small Businesses Keep on Growing 75% meeting expectations despite slow economy

Small-business growth is meeting or exceeding expectations for this year, a new survey shows. According to the latest quarterly Business Confidence Survey from Houston-based professional employer organization Administaff Inc., more than 75 percent of small-business owners say their companies are either growing as well as or better than they expected at the beginning of the year. About 54 percent of respondents said they were meeting their business projections for the year, while 21 percent said they were doing better than expected. However, the number of companies saying they are hiring additional ... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 35, 2009-11-09 Small Businesses Rule! Important Players in Utah Business and Job Growth By Kathryn Tobias

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Small businesses will play an important role in the economic future of Utah. The Office of Advocacy's Small Business Profile for the state, released today, provides details about small business employment, business starts and closings, bank lending in 2008, business ownership by minorities, women, and veterans, and firm and employment change by major industry and firm size. "Utah continues to depend on the health and ingenuity of its small business sector for the... Read More

Volume 13, Issue 2, 2010-01-19 Small Businesses to Benefit from ... ... Stronger U.S. Economic Growth By JeffΒ Thredgold

HIGHLIGHTS Washington County payrolls declined by 1,700 jobs (-3.4%) in the past year.  The unemployment rate was 8.2% in the latest month, up from 5.6% one year ago The Zions Bank Small Business Index for Utah was 80.2 in December 2009, up from a revised 79.0 in November 2009 Utah’s unemployment rate was estimated at 6.3% in the latest month, down from the 6.5% rate of the prior month.  Total Utah employment fell an estimated 38,800 jobs during the past 12 months Utah’s small business sector will benefit from stronger U.S. economic growth during 2010, as the Great Recession has run its... Read More

Volume 13, Issue 10, 2010-04-08 Smashburger Sizzles into Town Restaurant Brings Menu Featuring Smashburgers, Smashsalads, and HΓ€agen-DazsΒ Shakes By Alissa Kelly

ST. GEORGE, UTAH - Smashburger, a fast-casual “better burger” restaurant making its way into cities from coast to coast will introduce its Smashburgers, Smashsalads and Häagen-Dazs shakes to St. George, Utah on April 21, 2010. Smashburger is partnering with SB Las Vegas LLC to bring area residents made-to-order Smashburgers. The St. George Smashburger will be located at 158 N. Red Cliffs Drive, Suite #2.  Smashburger will offer... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 13, 2009-04-13 Smith Addresses Women's Luncheon Focus of Talk: Stress Reduction Source: Cedar Chamber

The Chamber Business Women’s Luncheon is a monthly luncheon with speakers and discussion forums focusing on issues that affect women in business. If you are looking to connect with other like-minded women, be a part of an expanding community and grow your business, WIB is for you.  Our environment is relaxing, friendly, stimulating, and inspiring. We invite you to join us and we look forward to welcoming you. The Business Women’s Luncheon is held each month on the third Wednesday, 12noon-1:00. Networking opportunities. Bring business cards, flyer's and bring a friend. This months guest speaker is Dr. Smith, DC,QN. Dr Smith will be teaching... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 41, 2009-12-22 Smith's Delivers 58,500 Meals to Utah Food Bank Donation will benefit 125 emergency food pantries and agencies statewide By Mike Dale

SALT LAKE CITY - Just in time for Christmas, Smith’s Food & Drug will deliver 12,100 grocery items and 1,400 turkeys by caseload to the Utah Food Bank for distribution to the statewide network of pantries. The donation represents more than 58,500 meals to feed the hungry as a result of donations from the 5th Annual Smith’s Gift of Giving Program. Smith’s customers in Utah donated either a $7 virtual 11-item meal bag or a $10 turkey during the campaign that started November 4 and runs through December 26. The Gift of Giving meal includes 11 nutritious food items such as tuna, rice, mixed vegetables, peaches, macaroni and cheese, red beans, and peanut butter packaged at cost by Smith’s to assure the highest value of... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 4, 2009-02-02 Smith's Donates $1.8 Million Customers Supply 56,400 Meals! Source: Utah Food Bank

In 2008, Smith's Food & Drug Stores contributed more than $1.8 million worth of cash and food products across Smith's seven western states of operation. Utah Food Bank Services received more than $800,000 of the donation. In addition, customers of Smith's in all locations purchased `virtual` bags of food, along with turkeys and hams to provide more than 56,400 meals to the hungry during the 2008 holiday season. Utah customers were credited with providing 5,474 bags of groceries and 2,762 turkeys & hams totaling more than 34,000 meals between November 10 and January 10. "For years, Smith's has been a generous supporter of... Read More

Volume 13, Issue 6, 2010-02-18 Smith's Sends $82,000Β for Haitian Relief By Mike Dale

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - Smith’s Food & Drug Stores has contributed $82,422 to the American Red Cross International Response Fund as a result of customers’ donations made during the recent campaign for Haitian earthquake relief.  The Greater Salt Lake Chapter was credited with $25,863 of the donation collected through Smith’s 47 stores in Utah. During the month of... Read More

Volume 13, Issue 2, 2010-01-19 Smith's Teams with American Red Cross ... ... In Response to Haitian Earthquake By Mike Dale

SALT LAKE CITY Smith's Food & Drug Stores in Utah have teamed up with the American Red Cross Greater Salt Lake Chapter to accept donations for international relief in response to the earthquake in Haiti. Starting today through January 30, 2010, customers of Smith's Food & Drug can make a donation to the American Red Cross by simply adding any amount to their checkout purchase.   All funds collected will directly benefit Red Cross International relief efforts in Haiti to provide food, water, shelter, medical supplies and other... Read More

Volume 7, Issue 8, 2004-04-26 Smokin!

A Charlotte, NC lawyer purchased a box of very rare and expensive cigars, and then insured them against fire among other things. Within a month having smoked his entire stockpile of these great cigars and without yet having made even his first premium payment on the policy, the lawyer filed claim against the insurance company. In his claim, the lawyer stated the cigars were lost "in a series of small fires." The insurance company refused to pay, citing the obvious reason that the man had consumed the cigars in the normal fashion. The lawyer sued... and won! In delivering the ruling the judge agreed with the insurance company that the claim was frivolous. The judge stated nevertheless, that the lawyer "held a policy from the company in which it had warranted that the cigars were insurable and also guaranteed that it would insure them against fire, without defining what is considered to be unacceptable fire" and was obligated to pay the claim. Rather than endure lengthy and costly appeal process, the insurance company accepted the ruling and paid $15,000 to the lawyer for his loss of the rare cigars lost in the "fires." Now for the best part. After the lawyer cashed the check, the insurance company had him arrested on 24 counts of arson! With the insurance claim and testimony from the previous case being used against him, the lawyer was convicted of intentionally burning his insured property and was sentenced to 24 months in jail and a $24,000 fine. This case apparently won First place in the recent Criminal Lawyers Award Contest. Only in America! No wonder third world countries think we're nuts.

Volume 13, Issue 26, 2010-08-25 SMOKY A Story About Cats ... for Grand Kids and Other Pet Lovers By Sara Atkin

Morning commences when a heavy object that will not be denied lands upon my bed. Cat Smoky is greeted by a faint growl from friend dog whose sleep has been disturbed. Smoky has need to exercise his ritual. If daylight hasn’t arrived, he’s told to "GET DOWN " then a blow is struck in his direction from beneath the covers. With luck, I’ve gleaned another 30 minutes of sleep. Smoky arrived at my house accompanied by his sister Fiona, a long legged gray tiger kitty with a broom handle tail. Her tail always erect and frequently her back was arched. Fiona responded to the ring of a doorbell like the lady of the house. She invited everyone in, rubbed against their leg and defied them not to like her. She’d lived with Honey, our renter, in spite of my having specified "No Pets." When I met Fiona, her cat cunning worked, for I did not insist on her departure, instead I remarked that I’d really like to have a clone of her. Honey phoned to say she was moving, and asked, "would you like to have Fiona?" My response, "Of course, just bring her out." Upon arrival, Honey mentioned she had Fiona’s brother in the car. Did I know anyone else who would like a cat? In a moment of weakness I said "Bring him in too, I’ll find a home for him after Fiona gets adjusted." The second cat was Smoky. "This one is timid." Honey said, as she carried him through the door. That was a gross understatement, for he was a living coward. All that distinguished him from a massive pile of gray mold were his enormous lime green eyes They looked like two slices of a small lime with watermelon seeds wedged in for pupils, He darted from his owner’s arms, ran from the room and hid beneath the bed. He didn’t emerge for two weeks. I knew he was there for the food I slid under to him was gone every morning. I’m sure Fiona comforted him when she slept with him at night. In the months that followed, I was frequently asked,"What became of the other cat, didn’t you get two?" My answers, "I still have him, he’s hiding, he’s even scared of himself." His only friend was Fiona. In time she began coaxing him on to the bed when no people were close around. In time he came out to eat with her on the dining room table where the dog couldn’t get their food. He began tolerating my presents if I moved slowly and kept my distance. Fiona saturated her curiosity. Each day took her further through the surrounding fields . Mornings she was impatient for the door to be opened and not always home when it was locked at night. Smoky remained cautious. He satisfied himself by prowling in the garage and close around the house especially if there was a door open where he could dart into his sanctuary. There were changes in him, but they were slow in coming. The last time I saw Fiona, she followed my... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 7, 2008-02-19 Snelgrove Ice Cream Brand to Melt Away

SALT LAKE CITY - A Utah original is shutting down. After 79 years, the Snelgrove Ice Cream brand is retiring. Dreyer's Grand Ice Cream bought out Snelgrove in 1989, but kept making ice cream at the Salt Lake City plant. Snelgrove ice cream is still sold in Utah and in some places in Idaho. Dreyer's has announced the company will discontinue production of Snelgrove products in March. After that, Snelgrove ice cream will be available only until store stocks run out. A Dreyer's spokesman says demand for Snelgrove ice cream has dwindled as Utah consumers have become more familiar with the Dreyer's brand. The Salt Lake City factory will continue to ... Read More

Volume 13, Issue 22, 2010-07-15 Snow Jensen & Reece Names New Shareholders By Brian Tenney

ST. GEORGE, UTAH - The law firm of Snow Jensen & Reece recently announced the addition of two new shareholders to the firm.  Matthew J. Ence and Joshua R. Forest were both made shareholders in official action taken by the firm Board of Directors. Mr. Ence has been employed by the firm since 2003 and is licensed to practice law in... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 13, 2007-05-21 So, what is going on with our local economy By R. Neil Walter

For anyone watching the evening or cable news or reading the newspaper, it can be confusing to figure out how our local economy is doing. National news is regularly mixed with local news, which can make it difficult to determine what trend to follow. On top of that, conflicting estimates of population growth, wage growth, real estate prices, and cost of living muddy the picture. Last, statistics don't make sense without context. While we know from looking around that there is significant economic activity in the community, understanding a couple of key indicators can provide insight into how stable the activity is and how it may impact you as a consumer, an employee, or an ent... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 14, 2007-05-28 So, what is going on with our local economy? By R. Neil Walter

For anyone watching the evening or cable news or reading the newspaper, it can be confusing to figure out how our local economy is doing. National news is regularly mixed with local news, which can make it difficult to determine what trend to follow. On top of that, conflicting estimates of population growth, wage growth, real estate prices, and cost of living muddy the picture. Last, statistics don't make sense without context. While we know from looking around that there is significant economic activity in the community, understanding a couple of key indicators can provide insight into how stable the activity is and how it may impact you as a consumer, an employee, or an ent... Read More

Volume 7, Issue 13, 2004-07-26 Social Security - a 2004 Election Issue? By Rush Limbaugh

I think the vast differences in compensation between victims of the September 11 casualty and those who die serving the country in Uniform are profound. No one is really talking about it either, because you just don't criticize anything having to do with September 11. Well, I just can't let the numbers pass by because it says something really disturbing about the entitlement mentality of this country. If you lost a family member in the September 11 attack, you're going to get an average of $1,185,000. The range is a minimum guarantee of $250,000, all the way up to $4.7 million. If you are a surviving family member of an American soldier killed in action, the first check you get is a $6,000 direct death benefit, half of which is taxable. Next, you get $1,750 for burial costs. If you are the surviving spouse, you get $833 a month until you remarry. And there's a payment of $211 per month for each child under 18. When the child hits 18, those payments come to a screeching halt. Keep in mind that some of the people who are getting an average of $1.185 million up to $4.7 million are complaining that it's not enough. Their deaths were tragic, but for most, they were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. Soldiers put themselves in harms way FOR ALL OF US, and they and their families know the dangers. We also learned over the weekend that some of the victims from the Oklahoma City bombing have started an organization asking for the same deal that the September 11 families are getting. In addition to that, some of the families of those bombed in the embassies are now asking for compensation as well. You see where this is going, don't you? Folks, this is part and parcel of over 50 years of entitlement politics in this country. It's just really sad. Every time a pay raise comes up for the military, they usually receive next to nothing of a raise. Now the green machine is in combat in the Middle East while their families have to survive on food stamps and live in low-rent housing. Make sense? However, our own U.S. Congress just voted themselves a raise, and many of you don't know that they only have to be in Congress one time to receive a pension that is more than $15,000 per month, and most are now equal to being millionaires plus. They also do not receive Social Security on retirement because they didn't have to pay into the system. If some of the military people stay in for 20 years and get out as an E-7, you may receive a pension of $1,000 per month, and the very people who placed you in harm's way receive a pension of $15,000 per month. I would like to see our elected officials pick up a weapon and join ranks before they start cutting out benefits and lowering pay for our sons and daughters who are now fighting. "When do we finally do something about this?" This must be a campaign issue in 2004. (Social Security) Perhaps we are asking the wrong questions during election years. Our Senators and Congressmen do not pay into Social Security. Many years ago they voted in their own benefit plan. In more recent years, no congressperson has felt the need to change it. For all practical purposes their plan works like this: When they retire, they continue to draw the same pay until they die, except it may increase from time to time for cost of living adjustments. For example, former Senator Byrd and Congressman White and their wives may expect to draw $7,800,000, with their wives drawing $275,000.00 during the last years of their lives. This is calculated on an average life span for each. Their cost for this excellent plan is $00.00. These little perks they voted for themselves are free to them. You and I pick up the tab for this plan. The funds for this fine retirement plan come directly from the General Fund--our tax dollars at work! From our own Social Security Plan, which you and I pay into -- every payday until we retire (which amount is matched by our employer) --we can expect to get an average $1,000 per month after retirement. Or, in other words, we would have to collect our average of $1,000 monthly benefits for 68 years and one month to equal Senator Bill Bradley's benefits! Social Security could be very good if only one small change were made. And that change would be to jerk the Golden Fleece Retirement Plan from under the Senators and Congressmen. Put them into the Social Security plan with the rest of us and then watch how fast they would fix it.

Volume 7, Issue 8, 2004-04-26 Softball Hits a Home Run in St. George By Josh Olmstead

From the early days of a handful of tournaments to a thirty-tournament schedule, softball has become a leading economic player in Washington County. In 2003, the St. George's softball program had a total economic impact of $80 million on the business community. Players eat at restaurants, stay in hotels, spend money in stores and even purchase homes. Players come from all over the world including Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Mexico and all 50 states. More than 1,000 teams came to play softball at the Canyons Softball Complex, which has won the National Softball Association complex of the year for six years in a row. This year's schedule includes five national championship tournaments in all levels and divisions of play. The complex was built as part of a recreation bond. The grand opening was March 1998. The complex occupies 38 acres and features 7 full size diamonds, 2 concession buildings, playground and picnic areas and 2 stocked fishing ponds. It sits in one of the most beautiful red rock settings in the world. These fields play host to over 8,000 games per year. Upcoming tournaments include the Red Rock International Invitational Men's fast pitch tournament on May 1-2. 16 of the top men's teams in the world compete in the tournament. Also on May 21-22 the Canyons Classic Men's slow pitch tournament will be held with over 50 teams participating.

Volume 10, Issue 2, 2007-02-19 Software by Local Firm Helps National Retailer Family Dollar improves risk analysis and increases productivity

ST. GEORGE - A local software provider is helping nationwide retailer Family Dollar Stores improve risk analysis and productivity at its 6,200 stores in 44 states. St. George-based Steton Technologies provides mobile data collection and reporting software for effective risk management programs. Steton software offers Family Dollar the visibility and foresight to recognize and reduce risk-related activities. “Steton enabled Family Dollar to significantly increase our auditor productivity,” said Shawn Burson, Risk Manager for Family Dollar. “Along with the boost in auditor productivity, the advantage gained with Steton's real-time repor... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 16, 2008-05-06 Software Firm Names New Managers

ST. GEORGE - Michael Sumner has joined the Steton management team as VP of Sales and Marketing. Sumner will oversee the technology firm's continued growth and leadership in brand intelligence solutions. Steton helps major businesses and government organizations reduce risks and protect brands with technology that effectively manages compliance to regulations, standards, and operational objectives. "Michael's proven track record of success and experience with selling business solutions to fortune 500 companies will be a great asset to Steton, " said Steven G. Caplin, company founder and president. Steton's David Omer has been promoted from Director of Technolo... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 30, 2008-08-20 Software Firm Releases New Update Steton Introduces Steton 8

ST. GEORGE - Introducing Steton 8, the technology evolution fundamental to the successful management of quality, safety, regulatory compliance, and overall risk mitigation. Steton 8 is all about bolstering the intelligent data available for "C" level executives to mid-level managers throughout organizations. Robust reporting additions help executives make the right decisions, and more importantly, at the right time. The innovative features introduced in Steton 8 include an all-new ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 8, 2008-03-04 Solar Power Plant Planned in Arizona

PHOENIX - A Spanish company plans to turn three square miles of desert southwest of Phoenix into one of the largest solar power plants in the world. Abengoa Solar - which has solar plants in Spain, Africa and the U.S. - could begin construction as early as next year on the 280-megawatt plant in Gila Bend, a small town 50 miles southeast of Phoenix. The company said Thursday that the plant could begin producing solar energy by 2011. Abengoa would build, own and operate the $1 billion plant, named the Solana Generating Station. Arizona Public Service, the state's largest utility, would pay Abengoa $4 billion over 30 years for the energy produced, es... Read More

Volume 7, Issue 4, 2004-02-23 Solid U.S. Economic Growth Will Be A Major Contributor To Utah Small Business Success By Jeff Thredgold

Highlights The Zions Bank Small Business Index for Utah rose to 100.9 in January 2004 versus a revised 99.3 in December 2003* Utah's unemployment rate was estimated at 4.7% in the latest month, down from the prior month's 4.9% rate. Total Utah employment is up an estimated 2,700 jobs during the past 12 months* Strong U.S. economic growth since mid-2003 will help Utah's small businesses* The nation's unemployment rate was 5.6% in January - - down from December's 5.7% rate - - while net U.S. employment rose by 112,000 jobs Solid Performance Strong U.S. economic growth since mid-2003 is expected to remain on track, providing major assistance to Utah's emergence fro... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 41, 2008-11-05 Soltis Investment Advisors Expanding Will Provide 401(k) Services to BB&K

ST GEORGE - Soltis Investment Advisors, one of the largest independent investment advisory firms in Utah and in the western United States, has been retained for 401(k) services by Best Best & Krieger (BB&K) Attorneys at Law. Soltis will be managing approximately $31 million in 401(k) assets from nearly 400 employees participating in BB&K's 401(k) plan. Soltis will be providing a number of services, including investment advice and fiduciary assistance for the plan committee and investment advice and education for plan participants, along with one-on-one consultations for participants.  "We hired Soltis after much due diligence. We searched for a... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 26, 2009-07-20 Solutions to World's Energy Problems Focusing on Solutions to World's Energy Problems By Michael O'Malley USTAR Marketing and Communications Director

SALT LAKE CITY - Retrofitting existing fossil fuel technologies to reduce greenhouse gases and maximizing syngas production from in-situ thermal processing are hot topics at the Institute for Clean and Secure Energy (ICSE). The ICSE Advisory Board discussed those areas as key opportunities for application of ICSE research, when the board met for the first time on June 22 and 23. The mission of the newly formed Advisory Board is to help ICSE focus its efforts to develop and deploy research as expeditiously and effectively as possible. The board is chaired by David Pershing, U of U Senior VP of Academic Affairs.   "ICSE grew from a long tradition of combustion research at the University of Utah beginning in the ... Read More

Volume 6, Issue 21, 2003-11-24 Some Γ’β‚¬ΛœBefore the Year End' - Money Saving Tax Strategies A Seven Point Checkup for the Year End By James Mitchell, EA

Accountants have a reputation of telling you what you should have done after you should have done it. In fact some have quipped that an accountant is someone who shows up after the battle and bayonets the wounded. In an effort to thwart that image, here are a few year end strategies that will hopefully be as timely as they are useful. 1. By now most of us have had our fill of hearing about the 'Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003' more commonly known as the Bush tax cut. If you haven't already done so, it would be a good idea to get with your accountant to see how this tax cut affects you. Some of it's provisions such as the availability of up to $100,... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 36, 2007-11-09 Some DSC Alumni Balk at U. Merger

ST. GEORGE - A University of Utah-proposed affiliation with Dixie State College comes with a handful of ironclad conditions - but not every Dixie supporter likes the deal, according to the Salt Lake Tribune. Among the primary concerns are requirements to drop Dixie's "Rebel" mascot and handing over direct control of administrative and fiscal policies of the college to bosses in Salt Lake City. "There is a very large group of people who want Dixie or the name Dixie to be preserved in the best possible way," said St. George attorney and Dixie alum Ralph Atkin at a public hearing last week. But that's not likely to happen and strong emotions won't ch... Read More

Volume 13, Issue 22, 2010-07-15 SOME RELIEF AT THE PUMPS Utah’s Price Drops 11 Cents

SALT LAKE CITY - Much to the relief of motorists, and especially summer travelers, Utah’s average gasoline price dropped 11 cents this past month. Despite this drop, Utah has the sixth price in the lower 48 states. The current average price in Utah is $2.87 a gallon for regular, self-serve. This is 11 cents lower than last month’s report on June 8. The current price is one cent lower than a week ago but 22 cents higher than a year ago. In the lower 48 states, only California, Washington, Nevada, Oregon and Idaho have average prices higher than... Read More

Volume 8, Issue 17, 2005-10-03 Someday Better Attitudes in the Workplace By Matt Eschler, LMFT

Live your life on purpose! - Matt Eschler Someday, I'll begin the exercise program...Someday; I'll take a trip to Hawaii... Someday, I'll go back to school to get my degree... Someday, I'll write a book... Someday, I'll do some acting or singing...Someday I will quit drinking. All of these and more are what we say we will finally get around to doing when we have more time or are in a different location. We can make up some extremely intelligent excuses to not do what we want to do. I have had an individual in the course of a therapy session look me right in the eye and say I will stop drinking as soon as I can unload some of the daily stress ... Read More

Volume 7, Issue 8, 2004-04-26 Something Old, Something New The Ins and Outs of Business By Voin R Campbell

Owning your own business is one of many American dreams. The two most common methods are Acquisition (buy an ongoing business) and Start-Up (start a new business). Each approach has is benefits and disadvantages. Let's start with buying an already existing business. The Acquisition of an existing business, if done right, has several compelling advantages over starting up “from scratch”. Do not underestimate the value of goodwill. The most obvious advantage of an ongoing business operation is an existing “track record”. The ability to step into an already existing cash flow is very appealing. If it can be established what the income, cost of sales and operating expenses of the business are, you will have some reasonable basis upon which to project what you might expect to make in the same business at the same location. Furthermore, since the owner and/or operator of the business can have a profound effect both the sales and the costs associated with the profitability of the business, you may be able to reasonably conclude that you have a basic skill set and a temperament the may enable you to operate the business more successfully. In such a case, the possibility may exist to negotiate a lower price for an under performing business and to capitalize on your talents to dramatically quickly improve the profits of the business.(Of course, the opposite may also be true. That is, the current owner may highly successful by virtue of his unusual sales skills and dynamic personality. In that case, since the current owner will not likely continue to be associated with the business, the driving force of the business will probably be lost upon acquisition). Another advantage to acquiring an existing business may be the conversion of a formidable competitor (the seller) into an ally with a training and consulting agreement, coupled with a prolonged non-competition agreement. That is usually most effective if the seller is willing to carry some financing of the purchase of the business. Startups also have a lot of appeal. Obviously, every successful business was, at some point, a startup. The most appealing characteristic of starting you own business is that one need not pay for “blue sky” (ie. goodwill). If you have a business plan that realistically accounts for and provides for the period of time between the outgo of startup capital and the arrival of a suitable income stream comes in, perhaps starting up you own business is the way to go. Perhaps the right financing, which allows you to repay the startup costs after the income stream comes in, is the best way to go. The potential for significant capital gains is great for those who can successfully start up successful business ventures. An experiences advisor, such as a business broker, can be of great benefit to you in determining which way to go, or, not to go at all.

Volume 12, Issue 5, 2009-02-09 Sorensen Elected to Chamber Board By Aaron Walker

St. George, Utah - Jones Waldo Holbrook & McDonough PC, one of Utah's largest and oldest law firms, recently recognized attorney Marianne Sorensen for being elected to the St. George Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. "The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce, being the third largest organization of its type in Utah, is a driving force behind the success of local businesses," Sorensen said. "Its members are dynamic, hard-working, loyal and congenial - they have made me feel welcome since the first Chamber meeting I attended. I am very enthused to serve the Chamber membership for the next three years, and to work with fine people who really ... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 25, 2007-08-24 Sorensen Named AAA Sales Manager

WASHINGTON, Utah - Gary Sorensen has been named Manager of Insurance and Travel Sales for Southern Utah, AAA Utah has announced. Sorensen will work from the AAA office on Telegraph Street in Washington. He has been with AAA Utah for nine years as Manager of Emergency Road Service, Membership and Travel at the Utah Call Center. Sorensen has been in the travel industry for over 20 years.... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 28, 2007-09-14 SOS Appoints Staffing Manager

CEDAR CITY - SOS Staffing is pleased to announce the promotion of long time Cedar city resident Christine Goulding to branch manager for the Cedar City office located at 580 S. Main. ... Read More

Volume 7, Issue 3, 2004-02-09 South Central Communications Purchases Cable Company

South Central Communications, with headquarters in Escalante, Utah, announced that they have reached an agreement to purchase cable television systems currently owned by Mallard Cablevision in the following Southern Utah communities: Brianhead, Enterprise, Escalante, Panguitch, New Harmony, Kanarraville, Winchester Hills, Beaver, Enoch, Paragonah and Parowan. South Central Communications (commonly known in Southern Utah as "South Central") will add these customers to its present cable television operation, known as Southwest Cablevision. Additionally South Central will change the name of this subsidiary to South Central Television and market it under the logo "SCTV." The new cable ... Read More

Volume 8, Issue 22, 2005-12-19 Southern Corridor Construction to Begin at I-15 By Myron W. Lee

St. George, Utah - State and local officials have begun to refine plans to build the first phase of a regional transportation route from Hurricane to I-15 south of St. George. Phase one will include the construction of the Atkinville Interchange at RP 2 on I-15 near the Sun River development. The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) and the City of St. George have agreed on the concept of building the interchange first with money already set aside for the corridor. The interchange will initially connect the Sun River development to I-15 by 2008. The next phase of Southern Corridor construction would then follow to connect the interchange to a frontage road along the e... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 33, 2007-10-19 Southern Utah Commercial Real Estate News

Amara Med Spa Moves to Rio Plaza ST. GEORGE - Amara Med Spa is the latest tenant at Rio Plaza, one of St. George's newest office and retail centers, located on Riverside Drive. The spa specializes in laser hair removal, skin tightening, and weight loss management. Upon completion of interior furnishings, the spa will move from its current location. The Walter Group and Jason Griffith Team of NAI assisted both parties in this transaction. Comics Plus Comes to Town ST. GEORGE - Comics Plus, Inc. is pleased to announce the opening of a new Comics Plus store, at 1812 W. Sunset Blvd. The grand opening date for the public is set for Nov. 2. Jason Griffith and Mee... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 31, 2007-10-05 Southern Utah Community Legal Center Now Open

ST. GEORGE - The Southern Utah Community Legal Center opened on Oct. 1 at 229 East St. George Boulevard in the United Title building in the Boulevard Office Park. Victims of domestic violence, persons with disabilities, low-income individuals and other disadvantaged Utahans will receive free legal services in civil law cases through the center. Special programs assist senior citizens, Native Americans and migrant farm workers. The Southern Utah Bar Association will also hold free legal clinics at the center. The center is a collaboration of the Southern Utah Bar Association, Utah Legal Services, and the Access to Justice Council. A ribbon cutting ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 45, 2008-12-10 Southern Utah Family Excels in Agriculture Utah Farm Bureau Gives Recognition

ALTON - Dustin and Harmony Cox of Alton, Kane County were honored with the ‘Excellence in Agriculture' award in recognition for their achievements at the 2008 Utah Farm Bureau Convention held late last month.  "We're very proud of Dustin and Harmony for their achievements on the state level and are pleased they were recognized by a group of their peers," said Merlin Esplin, President of the Kane County Farm Bureau. "This award points to the future of agriculture in our county and shows what great work is being done by our younger generations." Dustin and Harmony were recognized for their community leadership and their successful hay brokerage and ... Read More

Volume 9, Issue 13, 2006-10-02 Southern Utah Federal Changes Name Credit union now known as SouthWest Federal By Suzanne A. Grimes

ST. GEORGE - Southern Utah Federal Credit Union has announced that as of Oct. 1, it's name will change to SouthWest Federal Credit Union. The credit union's name change is a result of its desire to further distinguish itself in the financial institution marketplace. Southern Utah Federal Credit Union has undergone a name change three times, originally known as Dixie Cooperative Federal Credit Union at its founding in 1937. Since that time, the credit union has been known as St. George Utah Federal Credit Union, St. George Federal Credit Union and most recently Southern Utah Federal Credit Union. Each name change has better defined the credit union and i... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 4, 2007-03-19 Southern Utah Learns To Recycle By Raymond Inkel

CEDAR CITY - What can I recycle? Where can I take my paper or cardboard? What do I do with old batteries? Now you can find the answer in a complete recycling resource guide for southern Utah at www.southernutahrecycles.org. The guide gives information on what can be recycled and where it can be recycled. This new website contains information on basic materials - paper, glass, plastic, aluminum - and toxic materials such as car batteries, oil, and paints. Local drop off locations, business and services are highlighted to help resident recycle easier. The website and Recycling Guide are the beginnings of a public campaign to get people interested in recycl... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 13, 2009-04-13 Southern Utah Networkers By Ryan Bolton

Southern Utah Oldest Leads Group is looking for additional members. Come be a part of the SUN Group. The Southern Utah Networkers have been meeting for over 8 years. We are an industry exclusive networking group that meets every Friday morning at 7:20am at the Courtyard by Marriott near Iggy’s. In our weekly meeting we share leads, promote each others businesses, share testimonials, and... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 11, 2009-03-30 Southern Utah Networkers Seeks Members By Ryan Bolton

Southern Utah Oldest Leads Group is looking for additional members. Come be a part of the SUN Group. The Southern Utah Networkers have been meeting for over 8 years. We are an industry exclusive networking group that meets every Friday morning at 7:20am at the Courtyard by Marriott near Iggy's. In our weekly meeting we share leads, promote each others businesses, share testimonials, and give spotlight presentations. If you are looking to grow your business,... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 37, 2008-10-08 Southern Utah Real Estate Professional Earns EcoBroker� Designation Jesse Kimball now EcoBroker Certified�

ST GEORGE - Jesse Kimball of Coldwell Banker Premier Realty in St. George has earned the EcoBroker Certified® designation, having successfully completed a unique and informative training program on the energy and environmental issues that affect real estate transactions. Jesse joins the movement of professionals pushing the real estate... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 10, 2007-04-30 Southern Utah University Adds MPA Master's Degree

CEDAR CITY - A new era began Friday, April 20th, when the Utah State Board of Regents approved a new master's degree for Southern Utah University - the Master's in Public Administration (MPA). This new degree program will begin immediately, with classes starting this Fall semester. “Getting a new master's degree is huge,” said SUU Pres. Michael Benson. Provost Abe Harraf, the school's top academic officer, was so excited that he stepped out of the meeting and starting calling people back on campus to share the news with them. “We had to work for this one,” Harraf said, “but it was worth it.” The MPA is a pro... Read More

Volume 8, Issue 11, 2005-06-06 Southern Utah's First Fiber Optic Broadband Community Installed at SunRiver By Chris Chandler

Triaxis Inc., has commenced building its first fiber optic broadband solution in SunRiver, St George. Through a partnership with the developers of SunRiver, Triaxis provides a fiber optic broadband connection to all of the residents in the planned community. This provides residents access to over 200 digital quality television channels, 5+ Mbps Internet, and unlimited local and long distance phone service either in a bundled package or a la carte. According to Darcy Stewart, SunRiver's developer, “With real estate developers and homebuilders competing for homebuyers by offering different amenities, such as golf courses or community centers, fiber optic broadband will be a new technology standard for homebuyers in the future. If a development doesn't have it, they will go to where they can get it. We asked our community if they wanted it, and the overwhelming response was Γ’β‚¬ΛœYes!'” Triaxis, based out of Salt Lake City, partners with real estate developers to build their network solution in new residential home communities and multi-dwelling units. Each home is equipped with a Gigabit (1,000 Mbps) Ethernet connection that gives the homeowner future access to applications that aren't able to be received on today's standard cable and phone systems. The company has partnered with Honeywell, the largest security provider in country. They are expanding quickly into other areas with five additional planned communities to implement Triaxis' fiber optic broadband solution in Utah, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, and elsewhere in the western United States. Service prices are very competitive. Even though homeowners may choose their services a la carte, most are opting for a “bundled” package of unlimited local and long distance phone, 5 Mbps internet, and 80 digital quality Cable TV channels for a flat $99 per month. “Homeowners typically save about $25 to $75 per month with our services while we provide greater technology and a higher quality of service,” says Clint Brower, Triaxis' VP of Sales. He added, “We give SunRiver residents access to the fastest internet, telephone, digital television, including our newest advanced service offerings of High Definition Television (HDTV), Movies-On-Demand and home security as value-added services. With St George being one of the fastest growing cities in the country, now it will be one of the most technologically advanced with these new services.”

Volume 7, Issue 21, 2004-11-22 Southern Wise Men

In a small southern town there was a "Nativity Scene" that showed great skill and talent had gone into creating it. One small feature bothered me. The three wise men were wearing firemen's helmets. Totally unable to come up with a reason or explanation, I left. At a "Quik Stop" on the edge of town, I asked the lady behind the counter about the helmets. She exploded into a rage, yelling at me, "You darn Yankees never do read the Bible!" I assured her that I did, but simply couldn't recall anything about firemen in the Bible. She jerked her Bible from behind the counter and ruffled thru some pages, and finally jabbed her finger at a passage. Sticking it in my face she said "See, it says right here, 'The three wise man came from afar.'”

Volume 8, Issue 9, 2005-05-09 Southwest

Dixie Regional Medical Center (DRMC) and Valley View Medical Center (VVMC) have received notification of inclusion in Cleverley & Associates' Community Value Index (CVI) Top 100 listing. The listing of the nation's top acute care facilities recently appeared in Cleverley's publication, State of the Hospital Industry - 2005 Edition. According to the publication all acute-care facilities in the United States were used to calculate the Community Value Index, and the final study group consisted of 3,308 hospitals. Hospitals with less than $10 million in annual net patient revenue were removed from the study to provide a greater representation to larger hospitals where the majority of hospital expenditures occurs. Hospitals missing key data elements were also excluded. “Seeing our hospital's name listed in the CVI Top 100 hospitals in the nation and as a five-star hospital, was a wonderful moment for me,” said L. Steven Wilson, DRMC CEO/Administrator. “Being of great value to our community is what we are all about. This award focuses on literal financial value - how we serve our community in terms of stability and cost - and it's fulfilling to be among the top 3% in the nation in those measurements.” Steve Smoot, VVMC Administrator, shared Wilson's enthusiasm. “This ranking indicates health care in our region is more stable and affordable than elsewhere in the country. It's no secret health care nationally and locally confronts huge stability and financial challenges. It feels very good to know we're among the best in our industry at meeting these challenges.” The CVI was created to provide a measure of the value a hospital provides to the community it serves in three areas: financial performance and plant reinvestment, hospital cost structure, and hospital charge structure. These three areas break out data measurements in nine categories which assess profitability, level of hospital reinvestment, efficiency of plant use, how the hospital is financed, inpatient cost structure, outpatient cost structure, inpatient charges, outpatient charges, and level of low-income patients. The study suggests a hospital provides value to the community when it is financially viable, is appropriately reinvesting back into the facility, maintains a low cost structure, and has reasonable charges. The publication clarifies that this is not a quality of care study, “While we believe that quality of care is an important measure for hospitals, it is being increasingly reported by a number of private and public organizations. We do not know, however, of any attempt to evaluate hospitals on the basis of their value to the community. This is the primary objective of the CVI and we believe that our methodology is unique and timely.” Seven Intermountain Health Care (IHC) hospitals were listed in the CVI Top 100 (and with Five Star status, which means they rated in the top 20% of facilities studied). They are DRMC, VVMC, Logan Regional Hospital, McKay-Dee Hospital Center, Orem Community Hospital, American Fork, and Sevier Valley Hospital. An additional four IHC hospitals earned Five Star status. Those facilities are LDS Hospital, Utah Valley Regional Medical Center, Alta View Hospital, and Heber Valley Medical Center.

Volume 10, Issue 31, 2007-10-05 SouthWest Breaks Ground on Mesquite Branch

MESQUITE, Nev. - SouthWest Federal Credit Union, the area's only locally administered credit union, broke ground for a new branch in Mesquite, Nevada on Wednesday, Sept. 26 at 1160 West Pioneer Boulevard, adjacent to the Wal-Mart Parking lot. The 3,300 square-foot building will feature three drive-up windows, a 24-hour automated teller machine (ATM) and three remote teller stations that can be staffed or handle automated transactions. When fully operational, the branch is expected to employ seven people and will be a full service branch offering traditional banking services plus construction and home loans, consumer loans as well as business banking services and SBA loans.... Read More

Volume 9, Issue 14, 2006-10-30 Southwest Business Briefs

Hotel Gets Quality Award ST. GEORGE - The St. George Comfort Suites, located at 1239 S. Main St., has received the Platinum Hospitality Award from Choice Hotels International, franchisor of the Comfort Suites hotel brand. The St. George Comfort Suites is managed by Don Fritschle. Ence Homes Takes Two Awards ST. GEORGE - Ence Homes was recently honored with the Best Website Award by the Sales & Marketing Council of the Home Builders Association of Utah. The council comprises sales and marketing professionals who are members of the HBA or employed by a member of the HBA. The company also received first and second place honors at the Grand Awards... Read More

Volume 9, Issue 15, 2006-11-20 Southwest Business Briefs

Pluming Supply Wholesaler to Build In Hurricane ST. GEORGE - The Jason Griffith Team, from NAI Utah Southern Region, recently represented a buyer in purchasing two acres in Hurricane on SR-9 at 1600 West. The current structure will be replaced by a new building providing a home for a new pluming supply wholesale company. Completion dates are planned for late 2007 or early 2008. Star Sign Opens in Cedar City CEDAR CITY - Star Sign and Banner recently opened at 195 West 650 South, behind The Top Spot. Mortgage Firm to Serve Hispanic Market ST. GEORGE - Pat Chappell, from NAI Utah Southern Region helped to negotiate the sale of retail space l... Read More

Volume 9, Issue 16, 2006-12-18 Southwest Business Briefs

Watts Breaks Ground ST. GEORGE - Watts Construction recently broke ground on the Chiniquy Center office building at 550 S. Bluff Street. Sand Hollow Resort HURRICANE - Developers officially broke ground recently at Sand Hollow Resort, a 900-acre development near Sand Hollow State Park. Work on utilities and roads for the site has been ongoing for several months. The development is to include 27 holes of golf, a 15-acre water park, horse and OHV trails, commercial plaza, spa, tennis center, and hotel, as well as homes and condos. Construction is scheduled to begin in the spring. Developers hope to open the public golf courses to play... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 1, 2007-01-22 Southwest Business Briefs News of interest from around southwest Utah

Cedar City to get Comfort Inn CEDAR CITY - Developers broke ground recently for a new 86-room Comfort Inn & Suites on the east side of Interstate 15 at Cedar City's exit 57. Ed Patel of A&S Management said the inn will help meet Festival City USA's growing demand for lodging during the busy spring and summer seasons that bring visitors from all over the country for the Utah Shakespearean Festival, the Utah Summer Games, the Neil Simon Festival, GrooveFest and many recreational activities related to the area's many state and national parks. The Cedar City Comfort Inn & Suites will be designed to “enrich lifestyles through superior and... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 2, 2007-02-19 Southwest Business Briefs Business News from Southwest Utah

CBS Sells Local TV Station NEW YORK -- CBS Corporation has announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell seven of its owned television stations, including its KUTV Salt Lake City affiliate and satellite station KUSG in St. George, to Cerberus Capital Management, L.P. for $185 million. Olive Garden names manager ST. GEORGE - Olive Garden Italian Restaurant has appointed Santa Clara resident Travis Ballingham as general manager of the new restaurant at 1340 E. 170 South. Olive Garden will open March 5. The restaurant is accepting applications for employment. Apply in person at the restaurant Monday through Saturday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. The pho... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 23, 2008-07-02 SouthWest Federal Awards $10,000 in College Scholarships Ten southwest Utah students each receive $1,000

ST. GEORGE - SouthWest Federal Credit Union's Scholarship Committee has announced the recipients of the institution's 2008 scholarship awards. Ten high school seniors were granted $1,000 each to be used at a college or university of their choice. All recipients had GPA's above 3.0, and were active in leadership and civic roles. Congratulations to these fine students: Sarah Matheson   Canyon View High School Camyce Nay         Cedar City High School, Christine Hulet      Cedar Success Academy Kaycee Clove    &nb... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 34, 2007-10-26 Southwest Federal Celebrates 70th Anniversary

ST. GEORGE - Born out of Dixie's dirt streets in a time of deep economic woes, SouthWest Federal Credit Union remains a vital part of our community as the institution celebrates 70 years of service. In 1937, St. George and other southern Utah towns were trying to emerge from the depths of the Great Depression. The Aug. 26, 1937, edition of the Washington County News makes mention of the formation of Dixie Cooperative Federal Credit Union, labeling it as "a thrift organization of the self-help order." The brief article goes on to say the credit union's objective is to "encourage regular and systematic savings deposits by its members who may als... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 1, 2008-01-01 SouthWest Federal Donates to Food Banks

SouthWest Federal Credit Union, with help from its members and the community, donated more than 200 coats and 200 pounds of food to the Dixie Care & Share and Iron County Care & Share in December. What began as a project for one of SouthWest Federal's vice presidents turned into much more this holiday season. Janene Shepherd, Assistant Vice President, organized the event, dubbed a Coat and Can Drive for Care & Share, as a community service project for her management class at Dixie State College. The expectation from the start was the community and Credit Union members would be much more inclined to donate food instead of coats during the drive from Nov. 19 to De... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 11, 2007-05-07 Southwest Federal Names Branch Manager

ST. GEORGE - SouthWest Federal Credit Union is happy to announce the promotion of Jacob Reber to Branch Manager of the Hurricane Office. Reber grew up in northern California and is one of nine children. He has always loved being active in his community, whether it is sports, volunteering at various events, or just helping friends and neighbors. He was attending BYU, majoring in Computer Engineering, when he met his wife, Sarah, of now six years. They have two wonderful children, and love every minute they spend together as a family. Reber and his family are happy to be in Washington County after living in the Salt Lake area the past few years, and... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 23, 2007-08-03 SouthWest Federal Names Branch Manager Goodwin to head Cedar City branch By Toby Hayes

CEDAR CITY — SouthWest Federal Credit Union, Southern Utah's only locally administered credit union, is pleased to announce the promotion of Ed Goodwin as the Cedar City branch manager effective Aug. 1. Goodwin has worked for SouthWest Federal Credit Union since March 2005. His combined 20 years of banking and mortgage experience makes him a strong resource to the credit union and community members. ‘I'm very excited for this opportunity to serve the community in Cedar City,’ Goodwin said. ‘We have a great group of employees here who I already love working with.’ Goodwin previously worked in the credit union... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 29, 2007-09-21 SouthWest Federal to Break Ground in Mesquite

MESQUITE, Nev. - SouthWest Federal Credit Union, the area's only locally administered credit union, will break ground on a new branch here. The ground breaking ceremony is scheduled for 10 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 26 at the site of the new branch, 1160 West Pioneer Boulevard. The planned 3,300 square-foot building adjacent to the Wal-Mart parking lot will feature three drive-up windows, a 24-hour automated teller machine and three remote teller stations that can be staffed or handle automated transactions. When fully operational, the branch is expected to employ seven people and will be a full service branch offering traditional banking services plus constructi... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 22, 2008-06-25 Southwest Federal to Sponsor Fundraiser Golf ball drop at Washington County Fair

ST. GEORGE - SouthWest Federal Credit Union has teamed up with United Way Dixie to sponsor the First Annual Golf Ball Drop fundraiser at the Washington County Fair. At 6:30 p.m. on Aug. 7 at the fair, some 3,000 numbered golf balls will be dropped from a boom truck above a putting green. Whoever purchased the numbered ball that goes in the hole first, or comes closest to it, will win $1,000 from SouthWest Federal Credit Union. Additional prizes, ranging in value from ... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 4, 2007-03-19 SouthWest Hires Business Services Officer By Suzanne A. Grimes

ST. GEORGE - SouthWest Federal Credit Union has hired Michael N. France as Business Services Officer. France will spearhead commercial and SBA loans, as well as create and develop business relationships with current and new business owners. France brings with him six years of banking experience with State Bank of Southern Utah in a variety of areas. He graduated from SUU with a bachelors of science in accounting and a masters of business administration. He and his wife Angela live in Cedar City with their two children. (They also have a little girl on the way. Congrats, Mike!) They love boating at Lake Powell, wake boarding, traveling, and spending time togeth... Read More

Volume 6, Issue 21, 2003-11-24 Southwest Medical Supplies Celebrates One Year Anniversary

Southwest Medical Supplies is a sole proprietorship owned and operated by Zane and Angela Whiting. They officially opened for business in August of 2002. "Quality Products for a Quality Life is what we're all about", says Angie, the Γ’β‚¬Λœbetter half' of SWM. SWM specializes in what is known as personal mobility. As the name implies, the company works in health industry, and the Γ’β‚¬Λœmobility' products offered include power wheel chairs, lift chairs, scooters, stair lifts, and vehicle lifts. Zane and Angie are enthusiastic about service. “We fully guarantee and service all of the equipment we sell, and we personally deliver free of charge” commen... Read More

Volume 7, Issue 19, 2004-10-25 Southwest Symphony Orchestra Performs Halloween Spooktacular By Gail Bunker

Dare to be bewitched as the Southwest Symphony Orchestra and Chorale present the annual Halloween Spooktacular concert with music telling the chilling tales of Harry Potter, the Sorcerer's Apprentice and the Lord of the Rings. There will be spine tingling sounds from the dark side with the Firebird Suite and music from “The Inferno.” This annual spooky event is popular with young and old alike and this year the chorale will join the symphony in scary sounds and costume. An audience pleaser and traditional event is the performance of nearly 100 young music students who will be featured this evening. Admission is free to all children. Attendees may arrive in costume if they wish. The musicians in the orchestra will be (in costume). This is a one-night only show on Thursday, October 30, the night before Halloween at 7:30 p.m. in the Cox Performing Arts Theater. Tickets for adults are available at the Avenna Center Box Office 652-7800.

Volume 12, Issue 14, 2009-04-20 Southwest Utah `Grows` a New Town By Mark Havnes

Bryce Canyon City - One of Utah's newest towns now has its own streets and addresses. It may not seem like a major accomplishment, but to Bryce Canyon City, a town of about 230 full-time residents, the dedication of the roads last week was a significant step in joining the ranks of Utah's incorporated cities and towns. "Having addresses now means the UPS driver can find you," said Jean Siler, spokesman for the town and Ruby's Inn, the sole landowner in the town that incorporated in 2007. That incorporation took advantage of a brief opening created by the Utah Legislature, since closed, which allowed creation of municipalities without the approval of... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 21, 2009-06-15 Southwest Utah Gets Natural Foods Store Natural Grocers Opens First Utah Location By Merredith Branscombe

WASHINGTON, UTAH (June, 2009) - Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage, an independent grocery chain with a focus on making natural and organic products affordable, is opening its first Utah location on June 16th in St. George, with specials all week followed by a Grand Opening Celebration on Saturday, June 20th, including a free BBQ from 10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. and refreshments, giveaways, samples and prizes. The June 20th Grand Opening will begin at 8 a.m., with giveaways and raffle prizes including Magic Bullet blenders, gift baskets, and a $500 gift card from NOW Foods. Free chair massages, health, beauty and nutrition and vitamin consultations will also be ... Read More

Volume 8, Issue 4, 2005-02-28 Southwest Utah Public Health Department Gets National Recognition By Ruthann Adams, R.N., B.S.N.

The Health Promotion Division of the Southwest Utah Public Health Department has been invited by the 2005 National Conference on Tobacco or Health to present information about a very successful program designed and implemented by the Division. The Southwest Utah Public Health Department has been working with tobacco retailers in the district to reduce the sale of tobacco products to underage youth. At the beginning of the effort in 1996 the sale rate was well over the 20% level required by federal mandate. The rate remained at 20% for six more years with little or no improvement. The success of the program has been tracked since its inception in 2002. The sale rate has been reduced from 20% in the last quarter of 2001 to the most recent rate of 3.6% in the last quarter of 2004. Staff members of the Health Promotion Division of the Southwest Utah Public Health Department will travel to the conference in Chicago, Illinois and will present information about this education program to the rest of the nation on May 4, 2005.

Volume 9, Issue 13, 2006-10-02 Southwest Welcomes Robison

ST. GEORGE - SouthWest Vision is pleased to welcome Ryan E. Robison, O.D., to the practice. Dr. Robison has been practicing optometry in St. George since 2004, and has recently joined Dr. Paul R. Gooch at SouthWest Vision. Dr. Robison is a St. George native, son of Calvin and JoAnn Robison. He graduated from Dixie High School in 1993 and Dixie State College in 1997. He continued his education at Brigham Young University and received his bachelor's degree in Business Management. He received his Doctor of Optometry degree from Pacific University College of Optometry in Forest Grove, Oregon. He enjoys being active in the community, including serving on the Sout... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 10, 2009-03-23 Spa Plans Ribbon Cutting Source: St. George Chamber

Planet Beach Contempo Spa is having their ribbon cutting ceremony on March 26th at 2:00 pm. Afterwards is their Membership Appreciation Party from 4-8 pm. There will be prizes, food, giveaways, and most of all, fun! The Planet Beach Contempo Spa concept was originated by CEO Steven Smith in New Orleans, Louisiana. It is a new age idea, not your typical day spa. It is a day spa where at the touch of a button, members can enjoy a day spa experience at a fraction of the cost of a regular day spa and in half the time! Some of their unique services include, the very popular Hydration Station, the Lumiere facial light, and the... Read More

Volume 9, Issue 16, 2006-12-18 Speak Your Customers' Language Russell Behrmann By St. George Area Chamber of Commerce President

A couple of years ago I was in the drive-up lane at a fast food restaurant in Cedar City. I thought I'd grab lunch, and a soft-drink. I placed my order, the young girl confirmed my order and I thought we were done with that part of the conversation when she asked me, “would you like a topper on the drink?” At first I hesitated about my answer. I had never needed to request a lid for my drink at a drive-up window before in my life. The lid seemed especially important at the moment since I was sitting in my car, wearing a nice suite and tie, and ready to zip onto I-15 and eat while I drive to my next appointment. “Of course I want a top on ... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 14, 2007-05-28 Speaker Manufacturer Relocates to S. Utah Growing TruAudio to open new facility

ST. GEORGE - Architectural loudspeaker manufacturer TruAudio, saying it has outgrown its current Salt Lake City headquarters, will soon move into a new 55,000-square-foot facility in St. George. Shipping from the facility will begin on June 4. Because inventory and personnel have already been transitioning to the new location, the vendor expects dealers will not encounter service interruptions. Both facilities will operate "at the same time for a while to ensure everything is settled in," said the company. TruAudio said the St. George site features "a state-of-the-art design center, a complete training facility, an interactive Home Cinema and Whole House Music s... Read More

Volume 13, Issue 14, 2010-05-06 Speaker of the House David Clark to Deliver ... ... 2010 Dixie State College Commencement Address By Steve Johnson

ST. GEORGE, UTAH - David Clark, Speaker of the Utah House of Representatives, will deliver the commencement address at the 99th-annual Dixie State College of Utah Commencement Exercises on Friday, May 7th, at 6 p.m., at the Avenna Center Burns Arena. Speaker Clark will also receive an honorary doctorate degree in Humanities as part of the... Read More

Volume 7, Issue 20, 2004-11-08 Speed Technically Twisted Commentaries By Jason Eyre

How fast is the fastest Internet connection you have ever used? Recently Verizon rolled out their fastest Internet offerings to home subscribers not running over the traditional copper lines the phone companies have historically used, but over Fiber Optics. The product branded FIOS offers Internet Speeds running at 5 Mbps/2 Mbps (pull/push) for $34.95 a month as part of a voice calling package, or $39.95 a month stand-alone. I currently get 3 Mbps/.25 Mbps for my 39.95/month with my Cable Modem. I feel a bit jealous. The truly amazing story is what happens at the next level: 15 Mbps/2 Mbps for $44.95 a month as part of a calling package or $49.95 a month stand-alone and if you are really Internet addicted: 30 Mbps/5 Mbps at pricing to be announced later. This pricing was posted on Verizon's web site in a press release dated July 19, 2004. Last week I saw some early users of the system posting proof of their 15Mbps downloads. One of the more interesting aspects of this service is that it is initially scheduled to be rolled out in California, Florida, and Texas. The press release also states that Verizon intends to pass 1 million homes and businesses in parts of nine states with fiber by the end of the year. This project sounded a lot like the UTOPIA project that was presented in Cedar City earlier this year, but it is being spearheaded by the Local Bell Company. If that was not enough, a press release on October 26 stated that Motorola is going to provide Video Network Infrastructure and Consumer Premises Equipment for these rollouts. It plans to double its FIOS deployment and launch its first video services over the network. It appears that in this case Verizon has found the real synergy of an advanced network. It will be the true Voice, Data, and Video offering all over one expandable system. Imagine what this type of Bandwidth would do for your business, and boy do I wish that Verizon would build this network to my house, I can guarantee that I would be the 44.95 subscriber.

Volume 11, Issue 20, 2008-06-04 Spinal Clinic Opens Chiropractors, MD's work together

ST. GEORGE - Advanced Spine & Rehabilitation, a multidisciplinary, state-of-the-art spine clinic, is now open. This clinic combines medical doctors and chiropractors who work together in treating all types of spine-related conditions. Doctors at AS&R are spine experts who specialize in chiropractic care, physical therapy, spine rehabilitation, spinal injections and spine surgery. Their clinic offers the latest techniques and technologies for optimal spinal care.... Read More

Volume 8, Issue 8, 2005-04-25 Sports and Events Commission Seeks New Members By Jeff Harding

The 9-member St. George Area Sports and Events Commission is expanding to 14 members and is looking for enthusiastic individuals interested in becoming volunteer members. The SGASEC was created in 2003 by the St. George Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. Its purpose is to promote tourism in Washington County through sporting and other events. In an effort to better define itself, the commission recently adopted new By-laws which give focus and direction, and provide for the expanded membership. “We are excited about our new focus and direction,” said James English, commission chair. “We are looking forward to the infusion of energy and experience that th... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 17, 2009-05-18 Spring `Bump` for Gas Prices Positive Economic News Moves Prices Higher

Utah, May, 2009 - Gasoline prices saw increases this past month as a result of the first positive, albeit modest, economic news and the traditional seasonal increase in demand, reports AAA Utah. The latest report, which tracks gasoline prices as a service to consumers, finds the average price for a gallon of regular, self-serve gasoline in Utah is $2.15. This is a 17-cent increase from last month's report on April 14. Utah's price jumped 4 cents in just the past week. Today's average price is $1.46 lower than a year ago. Thirteen states report average prices under Utah's mark. Oil prices increased last week after several weeks of relative stability. Crude oil prices jumped... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 10, 2009-03-23 Spring Cleaning By Jeff Thredgold

The struggling American economy, officially in recession since December 2007, hopes to establish a foundation for renewed growth before the end of the year.  A combination of home price stabilization, a bit of optimism from the national media, and the impact of massive amounts of stimulus should help establish just such a foundation. The current U.S. recession, entering its 16th month as April begins, is widely expected to be the longest and deepest of any since the Great Depression.  A renewal of modest (but positive) growth during 2009's final quarter-the evolving consensus view of forecasting economists-would see the current recession approach... Read More

Volume 7, Issue 5, 2004-03-15 Spring Enrollment Up at Dixie State College

Dixie State College recently announced third week enrollment totals for spring semester 2004, and numbers are up in both categories. The college experienced significant increases in both total headcount and full-time equivalent enrollment (FTE). A total of 5,496 students are enrolled in courses this semester at the college, a three percent increase over spring 2003 total enrollment. In terms of FTE, Dixie State experienced a four percent increase over last year's totals; the equivalent of 3,878 students make up DSC's spring 2004 full-time enrollment.* “Some of the current growth is attributable to our new four-year programs, but much of it also has to do with this institution in general,” said Vice President of Student Services Phil Alletto. “What it boils down to is more people throughout the region are taking note that Dixie State College is as great place to get a quality education. More freshman students than ever before are enrolling, and from farther and farther away.” The early indication is that the college's springtime growth will again carry over into fall semester. The college has seen fall semester increases in both enrollment categories since 1992-93. Currently, Alletto said, student applications are up more than 20 percent over last year at this time. “It looks like next fall we will welcome our largest new student group ever,” Alletto said. FTE, or full-time equivalent, is the enrollment figure funded by the state. One FTE is defined as any combination of 15 units of credit enrolled in by one or more students. For example, if a student is taking 15 credit hours, that equals one FTE. If 15 students take one credit, that equals one FTE as well.

Volume 9, Issue 9, 2006-06-12 Springdale Hosts Flute Festival

Springdale, UT - Once again, the Zion Canyon Flute Cirlce, The Town of Springdale and Z-Arts, presents the 2nd annual Zion Canyon Art And Flute Festival. The event will take place October 13th, 14th & 15th, 2006 Beginning at 12:00 pm Friday noon and continuing through 5:00 pm Sunday, art enthusiast and friends of the Native American Flute will gather together in Springdale Utah, to browse art and flute vendor booths, to listen and play Native American flute music, attend workshops, learn from each other and share our art, our music and passion with each other. This is a FREE event though this year the sponsors will be asking for a canned food donation to benefit the Navajo D... Read More

Volume 8, Issue 17, 2005-10-03 Springdale Hosts Zion Canyon Art and Flute Festival

Close your eyes and imagine the tall red canyon walls of Zion National Park as the back drop of a Native American Flute Festival. The Zion Canyon Flute Circle in co-operation of Z-Arts, has organized the 1st annual Zion Canyon Art and Flute Festival. Beginning at 4:00 pm Friday evening continuing through 4:00 pm on Sunday (October 7th, 8th & 9th), art enthusiast and friends of the Native American Flute will gather together in Springdale Utah, to browse art and flute vendor booths, to listen and play Native American flute music, attend workshops, learn from each other and share their art and music with each other. This free event will take place in Springdale, Utah located ... Read More

Volume 6, Issue 22, 2003-12-08 Springville Based Company Sponsors Games Governor Walker Hosts Russian Officials in Preparation for Moscow Utah Youth Games

Governor Olene Walker hosted a delegation from Russia at the State Capitol today to review plans for the Moscow Utah Youth Games. More than 400 young athletes from Moscow and Utah will compete in the Games at Olympic venues January, 30 through February. 6, 2004. "The Moscow Games provide a unique opportunity for these young athletes to further develop in their individual sports," said Walker. "My hope is that lifelong personal friendships will develop among the athletes, coaches, spectators and officials." Former Governor Mike Leavitt and Moscow Mayor Yuri Luzhkov first conceived of the Games during the 2002 Olympic Winter Games. The Youth Games are designed to foster a favo... Read More

Volume 9, Issue 10, 2006-07-03 SSN No Match Letters Enforcement Stepped Up

An article from national SHRM reports that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Social Security Administration (SSA) are stepping up efforts to enforce no match letters. DHS reports that out of about 250 million wage reports that the SSA receives each year, as many as ten percent belong to employees whose names do not match their Social Security numbers (SSN) on record. When a worker's SSN does not match the worker's name on tax or employment eligibility documents, the federal government issues a no-match letter asking employers to resolve the discrepancy. According to DHS, the employer should not fire a worker upon receiving the mismatch letter. In ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 18, 2008-05-20 St George boardings are down Empty seats are up Michael J. Kraupp

ST. GEORGE - SkyWest, Inc. reported a 1.1 percent increase in available seat miles (ASMs) for April, while revenue passenger miles (RPMs) decreased by 0.9 percent compared to the same period last year. The combined airlines generated 1.89 billion ASMs for the month, while RPMs decreased to 1.46 billion. Load factor was down 1.6 percentage points to 77.0% compared to 78.6% for the same period last year. Passenger boardings for April totaled 2,818,725 a 0.3 percent decrease over ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 21, 2008-06-11 St George Business Develops New Product Device is powered by cigarette lighter

ST GEORGE – Wilson Electronics, with headquarters in St George, announced the general availability of its newly developed SignalBoost™ Mini-Mobile Amplifier. The company claims that the amplifier significantly reduces the number of dropped calls in cellular phones.   The amplifier is... Read More

Volume 7, Issue 2, 2004-01-26 St George City Announces Annual Impact Fee Deferrals for Affordable Housing

St. George City has adopted an affordable housing strategy to promote housing opportunities for low and moderate income persons. One element of the strategy is to defer the impact fees on multi-family housing developments which offer housing to persons or families with incomes not exceeding 80% of the Area Median Income. Rental projects which utilize State or Federal low-income housing tax credits, and/or State or Federal housing loans for project development will be given more favorable consideration over rental projects not utilizing such funding. Proposals for impact fee deferral for apartment projects are due by January 30, 2004 to the City of St. George, Community Devel... Read More

Volume 9, Issue 8, 2006-05-22 St George Energy Services Honored With National Award Maddison Delaney

St. George, UT - The City of St. George Energy Services Department is one of 64 of the nation's more than 2,000 public power utilities to earn Reliable Public Power ProviderTM recognition from the American Public Power Association for providing consumers with the highest degree of reliable and safe electric service. William Gallagher, general manager of Vermont Public Power Supply Authority and chair of the APPA Board of Directors, presented the award on April 10, 2006 during the association's annual Engineering & Operations Technical Conference, held in Sacramento, Calif. “Receiving an RP3 designation demonstrates a utility's commitment to its employees, it... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 21, 2008-06-11 St George home health agencies receive awards IHC Homecare and So Utah Home Care among 11 statewide recipients by Kent Douglass

Eleven Utah home-health agencies are recipients of the 2008 HealthInsight Quality Award. The Salt Lake Tribune stated in its Business Digest that two of the agencies receiving the award are located in St George. IHC Homecare at Dixie, and Southern Utah Home Care & Hospice were the two local award winners.   Other recipients are ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 21, 2008-06-11 St George Supervisor Wins Award Jeremy Browning amongst 8 recipients nation wide! Source: The Spectrum

ST GEORGE – The Spectrum announced that Jeremy Browning was one of eight people throughout the country to receive an award for “Outstanding Achievement as a Manager or Supervisor.” The honor was presented by Gannett Co. Inc., which is the parent company of 85 daily newspapers such as The Spectrum & Daily News, and nearly 900 other publications and internet sites.   The honor was especially impressive in light of the fact that ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 21, 2008-06-11 St George to Take Advantage of Sunshine City to offer stock in solar collection project by Kent Douglass

ST GEORGE - According to reports on KSL TV and KSL.com, St George will be building a large solar farm to take advantage of the plentiful sunshine. If successful, the project could be a boon to business and homeowners in the area. The project would begin on a small scale serving a few hundred homes, and it could ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 30, 2008-08-20 St. George 17th Among U.S. Cities in Foreclosures Number losing homes jumped almost 1,200%

St. George ranked 17th highest among all U.S. cities in rate of home foreclosures in July, with one foreclosure filing for every 163 households, a new report shows. The report from Irvine, Calif., -based RealtyTrac said the St. George area saw a 51 percent increase in filings over June and a 1,192 percent spike from July 2007. Utah's housing market continued to struggle in July and had the ninth-highest foreclosure rate in the nation, according to RealtyTrac. The state had one foreclosure filing for every 472 households, up 27.32 percent from June 2008 and an increase of... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 40, 2007-12-18 St. George a Highly Secure City

ST. GEORGE - Two Utah cities made the Top 10 list of "most secure places to live" in the nation, according to an annual survey released recently by the Farmers Insurance Group of Companies, says the Deseret Morning News. Logan is ranked fifth in the small-town category, rising from seventh in 2006, while St. George tumbled from its first-place ranking to number eight. The number-one town this year on the small town list, which includes cities with populations of less than 150,000, is Corvallis, Ore. The rankings, compiled by Bert Sperling, a database expert with bestplaces.net, said the survey results included crime rates, environmental hazards, terrorism threat... Read More

Volume 9, Issue 11, 2006-08-07 St. George Area Chamber Selects Russell G. Behrmann as President

ST. GEORGE - The board of directors of the St. George Area Chamber of Commerce has announced the hiring of Russell G. Behrmann of Salt Lake City as chamber president. Mr. Behrmann began his duties on July 24. Behrmann has spent the past seven years as the president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Utah. His past positions include principal of Russ Behrmann Public Relations and Director of Communications for the State of Utah's Department of Community and Economic Development, where he served for the administrations of Gov. Norman Bangerter and Gov. Michael Leavitt. Behrmann was also a reporter and special segment producer at KTVX News in Salt Lake City. While there,... Read More

Volume 7, Issue 11, 2004-06-14 St. George Area Convention & Visitors Bureau /Sports and Events Marketing Position

The St. George Area Convention and Visitors Bureau has seen continued growth in visitors and convention delegates coming into the St. George and Zion National Park area so far in 2004! One segment of the market which has grown in interest is the sports and events market. In order to build on this market the CVB has hired Jeff Harding to oversee Sports and Events Marketing for the St. George/Zion National Park area. Jeff comes from Ogden, Utah with a background in marketing, advertising, and specifically convention and sports and events marketing for Weber County/Golden Spike Arena. “We are pleased to have Jeff Harding join our marketing team”, said Pamela Hilton, Marketing Director for the St. George Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. “The purpose of this position”, continued Pam, “is to assist with marketing the St. George area, develop and maintain an inventory of all indoor and outdoor sporting sites in the Washington County area, to work with local organizations and groups in identifying, and promoting sports and events that have a good “fit” for the St. George and surrounding areas that will have a positive effect on the county area.” If you would like further information or have ideas for specific events please give Jeff a call at 435-634-5747 ext 114.

Volume 10, Issue 16, 2007-06-11 St. George Area Named Most Secure Metro area cities honored by insurance group

ST. GEORGE — The Farmers Insurance Group of Companies has presented an award to St. George and surrounding cities as the company's choice for most secure American city in its population class. The St. George metro area was named the ‘Number One Most Secure Place to Live in the U.S.,’ according to a 2006 survey released by Farmers. The survey, which divided cities into three groups based on population, found that the St. George and its metropolitan area cities ranked number one in the small cities category. St. George Mayor Dan McArthur, Santa Clara Mayor Rick Rosenberg, Washington Mayor Terrill Clove, Ivins Mayor Darren Barney, ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 6, 2008-02-12 St. George Area Parade of Homes Opens Friday

ST. GEORGE - The 18th Annual St. George Area Parade of Homes, presented by the Southern Utah Home Builders Association, and Zions Bank will be held Feb. 15 - 24. For potential home buyers, the Parade of Homes is an opportunity to make a dream come true by purchasing one of the 26 masterpieces. Meant for more than show, parade homes are designed and built to be lived in. For current homeowners, the Parade of Homes offers a glimpse of the cutting edge in home construction and design. Attendees can gain valuable insight and tips by talking directly to the craftsmen of each home. For snowbirds and recreation enthusiasts, the St. George Area Parade ... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 2, 2008-01-15 St. George Area Parade of Homes Scheduled

ST. GEORGE - The 18th Annual St. George Area Parade of Homes, presented by the Southern Utah Home Builders Association, and Zions Bank will be held Feb. 15 - 24. For potential home buyers, the Parade of Homes is an opportunity to make a dream come true by purchasing one of the twenty-six masterpieces. Meant for more than show, parade homes are designed and built to be lived in. For current homeowners, the Parade of Homes offers a glimpse of the cutting edge in home construction and design. Attendees can gain valuable insight and tips by talking directly to the craftsmen of each home. For snowbirds and recreation enthusiasts, the St. George Area... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 36, 2009-11-16 St. George Attorneys Help Clients Get Justice By Brian Tenney

ST. GEORGE, UTAH - Attorneys Bryce Dixon and Ron Truman, of Dixon, Truman, Fisher & Clifford. P.C., spent a week in a Salt Lake City federal courtroom trying to get justice for their clients, Jim and Colleen Spahr.   Jim Spahr was injured when he walked into a hole left in the parking lot of the Rodeway Inn in Springdale, Utah.  On the morning of October 4, 2006, Jim Spahr left his hotel room with a small cooler to get some ice before he checked out of the hotel.   Jim walked with his small cooler from his hotel room directly toward the office.    There was no moon that morning, but there was a little light coming from the windows of the... Read More

Volume 8, Issue 8, 2005-04-25 St. George Building on Reputation as a Business Destination By Pam Hilton

2005-2006 will be banner years for business visitors coming into the St. George area as we welcome three new major hotel chains and one major expansion to a current popular hotel. The Best Western Abbey Inn, already a favorite for business travelers, is finishing up their expansion. The new addition will feature 24 suites - with eight having two bedrooms - complete with fireplace, plasma TV, high speed internet - everything a business traveler needs to get work done and enjoy doing it. The 3150 square feet of conference space will also be wired for high tech, high speed conferencing. The Abbey Inn will expand their catering service to keep up with the increased demand. Slated for completion in May of this year is the Hilton Garden Inn, conveniently located next to the Dixie Convention Center. It will offer 150 spacious guest rooms and suites, and over 4000 square feet of meeting and convention space. The Hilton Garden Inn will also feature a 24 hour business center, a full service restaurant and lounge, fitness center, pool, whirlpool, 24 hour pantry and complimentary high-speed internet. Plans have been announced for the Holiday Inn Express & Suites to be located within the Coral Canyon Community just off I-15 north of St. George at mile marker 16. This elegant new hotel to be completed by late 2005 or early 2006 will bring 100 relaxing rooms to meet the needs of an ever-increasing visitor base to both Southern Utah and to the Coral Canyon Golf Course, which has become a nationally renowned golf destination. Besides being within walking distance of the course, the property will connect directly to the hiking trail system and will be surrounded on two sides by natural desert open space. Further down the road, geographically and chronologically is the Marriott Courtyard. Nestled against the black ridge in a very picturesque setting, this property will accommodate all types of business meetings, from small getaways to large conferences. With 135 rooms and 4500 square feet of meeting space, it will also have indoor and outdoor pools and Jacuzzis. Easy freeway access and close proximity to factory outlet shopping will make the Marriott Courtyard a true business and leisure destination. Completion is anticipated by Spring of 2006! Adding these fine hotels to St. George's already excellent accommodations makes it a whole lot easier to bring business meetings to the place where Utah's summer sun spends the winter - St. George!

Volume 10, Issue 17, 2007-06-18 St. George Business Expo - June 27 & 28

ST. GEORGE - The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce 14th Annual Business Expo 2007 is June 27 — 28 at the Dixie Center. This two-day extravaganza held 1 — 5p.m. on Wednesday and 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Thursday. Attendance is projected at 5,000 to 7,000. KCSG Television will be broadcasting during their 'First News' at 5:30 pm on the opening day from the Expo. Ticket are $3.00 at the door, or pick up free tickets from our sponsors below. - The Spectrum - PC Innovation Computers - The Dixie Book - Beehive Credit Union - Office Furniature USA - Exit Red Rock Realty - Infowest... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 18, 2007-06-25 St. George Business Expo - June 27 & 28

ST. GEORGE - The St. George Area Chamber of Commerce 14th Annual Business Expo 2007 is June 27 — 28 at the Dixie Center. This two-day extravaganza held 1 — 5 p.m. on Wednesday and 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Thursday. Attendance is projected at 5,000 to 7,000. KCSG Television will be broadcasting during their 'First News' at 5:30 pm on the opening day from the Expo. Ticket are $3.00 at the door, or pick up free tickets from our sponsors below. - The Spectrum - PC Innovation Computers - The Dixie Book - Beehive Credit Union - Office Furniature USA - Exit Red Rock Realty - Infowest ... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 18, 2009-05-25 St. George Businessman Named to State Commission Brigham Lewis Takes Post on Utah Residential Mortgage Commission By Becky Glauser

Brigg Lewis, recently named to the Utah Residential Mortgage Commission says he is, "... honored to have been asked to be a part of the Residential Mortgage Regulatory Commission." He added that: "I feel the weight of what the commission needs to do on a regular basis and see it as an opportunity to serve people who are involved in our industry.  I appreciate the time all of the commissioners volunteer for our benefit.  I strongly believe in what the commission is doing and the goals they have to protect consumers as well as to keep the industry working the way it is supposed to work."  Brigg entered the mortgage business over eight year ago as a Loan Officer and ... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 36, 2007-11-09 St. George Celebrates Downtown Project

ST. GEORGE - St. George has a new downtown gathering place specifically designed to attract residents and businesses to the heart of the city's historic center, the Deseret Morning News reports. "Anytime you have a vibrant, functioning downtown, where people are there, busy and enjoying themselves, it's a big draw for business," said St. George Mayor Dan McArthur. "It's been exciting to have this come together and watch it grow." The St. George Town Square Historic District at Tabernacle and Main Street includes a 45-foot-tall, walk-through tower that features four 8-foot, rounded stained-glass windows depicting the area's rich history. Titled "Po... Read More

Volume 12, Issue 5, 2009-02-09 St. George Chamber Luncheon Scheduled Local Duct Tape Marketing Coach to Speak By Troy Braithwaite

St. George, UT – Troy Braithwaite, Utah’s Authorized Duct Tape Marketing Coach will be the designated speaker at this week’s St. George Chamber Luncheon.  The title of his topic is the “7 Steps to Marketing Success in a Down Economy.”  He will discuss 7 simple and effective steps any business owner can take to help boost their revenues and help them get the business they need it these tough times.    ST. GEORGE -  Each month the St. George Exchange Club works with the local high schools in selecting high school seniors who are excelling in their school. Each month, the Student of the Month seniors and their parents are invited to a club breakfast to be recognized and honored for their achievements. Then at the end of the school year, one from each school will be selected as the Student of the Year and receive a $500 college scholarship.     The St. George Exchange Club recognized the following students... Read More

Volume 9, Issue 11, 2006-08-07 St. George Commercial Real Estate Remains Strong By Jeri Cartwright

ST. GEORGE - The St. George commercial real estate market remains robust and is likely to stay strong based on continued steady population growth. Retailers are realizing the necessity of locating in St. George and developers are scrambling to find locations to accommodate these tenants. St. George, which accounts for three-quarters of all retail sales in Washington County, has experienced a 73 percent increase in retail sales over the past five years. Because of the strong performance in all retail categories, further expansion of the retail market is expected through the remainder of 2006. Over the next 12 months the St. George area has the potential to add over 300,000 squa... Read More

Volume 13, Issue 2, 2010-01-19 St. George Conference to Focus on Alzheimer's Utah is Second Highest in Prevalence of Alzheimer's Disease By Mike Dale

ST. GEORGE, UTAH - The number of people with Alzheimer's in Utah is growing with the aging of the baby boomers population. According to the 2009 Alzheimer’s Association Disease Facts and Futures Report, Utah has the second highest prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease among all fifty states. Currently there are 32,000 people in the state with the disease. Helping families and caregivers cope with... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 8, 2007-04-16 St. George Department Goes Solar

ST. GEORGE - A five kilowatt photovoltaic solar system has been installed on the city Water and Energy Administration building. The system is designed for future expansion up to a total of 10 kW. Software will track the system's energy generation and avoided emissions. A display will be located in the lobby of the Water and Energy Services Administration Building. In the future, the solar energy information will be available on the City's website. Funding for the project is being provided by the City of St. George Energy Services Department and a grant from the governor's Office. Gov. Jon Huntsman's energy plan includes increasing the utilizatio... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 14, 2008-04-22 St. George Designates Airport for Redevelopment

ST. GEORGE - The St. George City Council has taken a step toward redeveloping the current airport, changing the property’s land use designation. The action amended the city's general plan land use map by changing the 274 acres from mixed residential use to professional office, commercial and mixed residential. Sandy-based Anderson Development submitted the winning bid of nearly $44 million for the property. Anderson will take ownership of the property when the replacement St. George airport is operational. The new airport is scheduled to open in 2011. Anderson's concept plan for the property includes 42 acres of commercial development as a neighborhood ... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 25, 2007-08-24 St. George Downtown Redevelopment—an Opportunity From NAI Utah Southern Region

St. George downtown redevelopment is lagging the rest of the county in commercial construction by a wide margin. Although the city has stated its intention to incentivize growth in the central business district and the community participants in the Vision Dixie process expressed their desire to see higher density development with more open space, the downtown private sector development has struggled to follow the city's development lead. Following the example of other cities such as Seattle, Vancouver, and San Francisco, increasing building height and encouraging more mixed use development can help accomplish the objectives of the city and remain consistent with the stated... Read More

Volume 10, Issue 4, 2007-03-19 St. George Firm Launches New Technology Productivity tool cuts through e-mail clutter

SALT LAKE CITY - Electronic Virtual Assistant, a provider of voice-based services, today announced that it is introducing the newest and most advanced technology in email service - E-Max. E-Max breaks through email clutter and delivers important “can't-be-missed” messages direct to the recipient, even when they are not in front of a computer. and allows for spontaneous reply without the need of keyboard or the hassle of thumb-typing a short (and often incomplete) response. Important VIP messages are automatically forwarded to the recipient's cell phone and read aloud. The recipient can then choose to dictate a reply in their own voice wh... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 27, 2008-07-30 St. George Foreclosure Filings Up 446% Utah ranks 14th among states, as foreclosures double

The Deseret News reports that Utah ranked 14th in the nation in the rate of foreclosure filings in the second quarter of this year, according to a report released Thursday. Among the state's metro areas, St. George had the highest rate, with one in every 87 households in foreclosure. The St. George area saw filings jump 446 percent year-over-year and 56 percent from the first quarter of 2008 to the second quarter, the report said. One in every 226 households in Utah was in foreclosure during the second quarter of 2008, up just over... Read More

Volume 11, Issue 25, 2008-07-16 St. George Foreclosure Rate Among Nation's Highest Ranks 27th among metro areas

ST. GEORGE - The St. George area ranked 27th among metro areas nationally for its rate of home foreclosure filings in June, with one foreclosure for every 245 properties - the highest rate among cities in Utah. St. George had a 13 percent hike in foreclosure filings from May to June of this year and 174 percent year-over-year increase, according to a report from RealtyTrac. The number of Utah homeowners who received a foreclosure filing in June jumped nearly 141 percent, compared with the same month last year, according to RealtyTrac. The 140.54 percent increase was almost... Read More

Volume 13, Issue 23, 2010-07-29 St. George Foreclosure Rates Continue Increase Home Prices in St. George Decrease By Lori Guyton

Foreclosure rates in St. George have increased for the month of June over the same period last year, according to CoreLogic. According to newly released data from CoreLogic on foreclosures for the St. George area, the rate of foreclosures among outstanding mortgage loans is 3.78 percent for the month of June, an increase of 0.35 percentage points compared to June of 2009 when the rate was 3.43 percent.* Foreclosure activity in St. George is higher than the national foreclosure rate which was 3.06 percent for June 2010, representing a 0.72 percentage point difference. Also in St. George, the... Read More