Business briefs

Citizens for Affordable Homes Inc. is looking to fill several vacant positions on its board of directors before the end of the year.

Board members must attend all board and committee meetings and functions, be informed about the organization's mission, services, policies and programs, and review agendas and supporting materials prior to board and committee meetings. Call 883-7101.

Nevada contractors board warns of winter scam artists

The Nevada State Contractors Board is warning homeowners to beware of fall and winter scam artists who offer "good deals" on heating and roof repairs, painting and remodeling, driveway sealing and other types of home repairs.

These unlicensed contractors may approach homeowners door to door and usually say they are in the neighborhood and can give you a great price on leftover materials.

Often they ask for full or cash payment up front. Homeowners are urged to be on the lookout for these types of deals and to hire only licensed contractors, which can be looked up by calling the Contractors Board at 688-1141.

Also follow these tips:

• Always get a written contract and do not sign it until you completely understand the terms.

• Pay 10 percent or $1,000 , whichever is less, if a deposit is required.

• Don't let payments get ahead of work. Keep records of all payments.

• Do not make the final payment until you are satisfied with the job.

• Do not pay cash.

• Keep a job file of all papers relating to your project.

IRS announces 2007 standard mileage rates

The Internal Revenue Service has issued the 2007 standard mileage rates used to calculate deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes.

Beginning Jan. 1, 2007, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car (including vans, pickup or panel trucks) will be 48 cents per mile for business miles driven, 20 cents per mile for medical or moving miles driven and 14 cents per mile driven in service to a charitable organization.

A taxpayer may not use the business standard mileage rate for a vehicle after using any depreciation method under the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System after claiming a Section 179 deduction for that vehicle or for any vehicle used for hire or for more than four vehicles used simultaneously.

BAWN membership tops 600 in October

The Builders Association of Western Nevada has topped 600 in membership with its latest additions. These include Accent Builders, Battle Born Builders, Becker General Contractors, Decorate Concrete Systems, Dwyer Custom Coatings, Greg A. Bailor, M&L Construction, Nevada Dirt Work, Olcese Construction Co., Rick Floor Covering and Uintah Investments.

State Farm Service Agency unveils new Web site

The State Farm Service Agency has launched its redesigned Web site. The new look and navigation will enable users to easily find information about FSA's programs and provides guidance for conducting USDA business online.

Visit the Web site at www.fsa.usda.gov/nv.