A career in the construction industry was named as one of the worst jobs for 2011. I thought we should explore the economic trends that contribute to this dubious distinction. Should we be looking for the light at the end of the proverbial tunnel? Between 2001 and 2004, jobs in construction rose steadily and then skyrocketed from 2004 to 2007. Many west side developments like Boulder Pointe and Ponderosa Trails sparked tons of interest and spurred new home growth in Flagstaff. Many buyers … [Read more...] about Economic Factors Affecting Construction in Flagstaff
Columnists
Check It Out – Libraries A Central Gathering Place
In these trying times, it may seem difficult to find ways to entertain or educate yourself and your children on a limited budget. Look no further! The Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library and the East Flagstaff Community Library both have tons of free stuff to check out and plenty of activities designed to educate, inform and entertain. The City of Flagstaff collaborates with Coconino County to maximize limited resources into one library system. This partnership gives our … [Read more...] about Check It Out – Libraries A Central Gathering Place
Work–The Gift That Keeps Giving
If you missed Seth Godin’s book, Linchpin (Penguin Books), when it was first released last June, there’s still time to make it part of your January list of resolutions. In fact, as our economy hiccups back to life in the new year, and employers realize it is okay to start hiring again, Godin’s book offers hope that, with the right attitude, you’ll be hopping right on board that gravy train as soon as it whistles its way into Flagstaff. The message is simple enough. In today’s work world, … [Read more...] about Work–The Gift That Keeps Giving
New Police Online Services Focus on Safety and Efficiency
The crime rate is lower in Flagstaff today than when I was first elected in 2008. That is because your public safety is my number one priority. A safe community is a productive and stable community. One of the strongest assets in Flagstaff is our City Police Department. Recently, the City Council approved an efficient new program to save you time, money and resources. In order to enhance its service to the community, while maximizing the efficient use of resources, the Flagstaff Police … [Read more...] about New Police Online Services Focus on Safety and Efficiency
Driving Forces Behind Flagstaff’s Commercial Real Estate
2010 has been a kinder year for commercial real estate here in our beautiful mountain town. We have seen prices stabilize and even rise a little bit in certain sectors. Investors are still hiding. but owner/users are seeing opportunities. Vacancies are still very high but decreasing. New development does not exist, but this allows for absorption. The Real Estate Cycle seems to be revolving in a positive direction. Many economists and naysayers think these small … [Read more...] about Driving Forces Behind Flagstaff’s Commercial Real Estate
Healthy and Achievable New Year’s Resolutions
What is the big deal with New Year’s Resolutions anyway? Every year, a whole bunch of people make up their minds – or trick themselves into believing they have made up their minds – to do something great for themselves. This is a particularly big event in the realm of fitness, and I have heard some pretty funny things out there. For example: “I have had it, this year I have resolved not to eat any more fruit. You know, fruit has way too much sugar and … [Read more...] about Healthy and Achievable New Year’s Resolutions
Business Reads for Beyond the Holidays
Hey, Santa! If you’re reading this, here’s what I want for Christmas. One of those wine club deals with a caseload of connoisseur selections each month. Then, a big old easy chair next to a roaring fire, a smoking jacket-style robe (in feminine colors, of course), and a nice assortment of books to keep me busy all winter. If you’re the Santa in your household, here are a duo of business titles to keep your book lover engaged – one to put under the tree, … [Read more...] about Business Reads for Beyond the Holidays
The Truth About Motivation
The BelleWether Group In our last article, we discussed making customer service part of your business plan and strategy. In wrapping up, we touched briefly on rewards and recognition for your staff and customers who display the desired behaviors and attitudes, which is where we would like to continue. Many of our clients have found it difficult to continually motivate their employees. Rewards that they typically provide their employees are often cash bonuses, gift cards, or … [Read more...] about The Truth About Motivation
Making Customer Service Part of Your Business Strategy
When working with our clients, we find that many don’t have a written business plan. When we ask to see their business plan, the response we usually get is, “It’s in my head.” Or, if they do have one, it’s hidden in a file drawer somewhere. Now if you don’t see that as a problem, you probably shouldn’t be running a business. And if you’re asking, “What does a business plan have to do with customer service?” Well, here’s … [Read more...] about Making Customer Service Part of Your Business Strategy
Understanding Radon Risks in Your Home
What is radon? Radon is a cancer causing radioactive gas that you cannot see, smell, or taste. It is produced by the normal breakdown of uranium in the soil and rock, and it may be a problem in your home. The United States Environmental Protection Agency and the Surgeon General’s Office have estimated that as many as 20,000 lung cancer deaths are caused each year by radon exposure. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer, and the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. … [Read more...] about Understanding Radon Risks in Your Home
