January 2021

Voting is open for BEST OF BUSINESS p. 28

INSIDE THE JANUARY 2021 ISSUE:

Home to Flagstaff p. 10

Findlay Honda and CCC Training Auto Techs p. 3

What to Know Before Moving Out of Your Home Office p. 11

How About a Home with Your Hot Sauce? p. 4 Flagstaff Family Care Joins Health Provider Network p. 6 Highgate Welcomes Seniors

Community Profile: Ex-Wrangler Mary Lois Brown Features Grand Life on Canvas p. 19

Real Estate Market Maintaining Momentum in the New Year S

By Bonnie Stevens, FBN

taying strong since last June, the housing market on the local, state and national level has risen to a 14-year high, despite the pandemic, economic uncertainty and a difficult presidential election. Even during historically slow periods, like the holiday season, homebuyers are quickly purchasing the few homes

listed for sale. The shortage of housing inventory and extremely low interest rates have driven the hyperactive real estate market, says long-time realtor Gary Nelson, who heads the Gary Nelson Group and is the associate broker at Realty Executives of Flagstaff. That trend, he says, is expected to continue through 2021. “The market in general is extremely hot, almost throughout all price

ranges,” said Nelson, who is starting the year as president-elect of the Arizona Association of Realtors (AAR), also known as Arizona REALTORS. “There are some remote rural areas that aren’t seeing the same activity, but in urban and suburban real estate markets, there remains very low inventory. We’re seeing multiple offers on most properties if they are priced to sell and, sometimes, even if they are overpriced.”

REAL ESTATE CHALLENGES

In the current sellers’ market, bidding wars on properties have become commonplace. To be successful, Nelson says buyers need experienced professionals working on their behalf. “The biggest challenge has been keeping up with market activity,” he explained. “Even more important is ensuring client safety and personal safety to make sure we Continued on page 31

The Shot Felt Round the World Weary healthcare officials rejoice with the arrival of COVID-19 vaccines By Bonnie Stevens and Brent Ruffner, FBN

D Flagstaff Medical Center Critical Care Nurse Stacey Payne, R.N., gives a thumbs-up upon receiving her first dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine on Dec. 22. Administering the shot is Emilie Bowers, N.P., of the Northern Arizona Healthcare Infectious Disease Department. Courtesy photo by Nico Barraza

January 2021 | Issue 1 Volume 14

espite reporting its highest number of COVID-19 patients ever in the first week of the New Year, Northern Arizona Healthcare officials remain optimistic about battling the virus with the rollout of vaccines. At the same time, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that Arizona is the No. 1 hotspot in the country, with a seven-day average of 121.8 new cases per 100,000 people. In early January, 80 COVID-positive patients were admitted at Flagstaff Medical Center (FMC); 30 were hospitalized at Verde Valley Medical Center (VVMC).

“As of this afternoon, Northern Arizona Healthcare has vaccinated 1,389 employees at Flagstaff Medical Center and 300 employees at Verde Valley Medical Center,” said Northern Arizona Healthcare Chief Quality Officer Dr. John Mougin on Tuesday, Jan. 5. “We are doing particularly well at FMC and looking to increase vaccination numbers at VVMC. Our goal is to get most of our employees that want the vaccination initiated with their first dose this week.” On Tuesday, Dec. 15, medical staff members at Native Americans for Community Action (NACA) began receiving the first round of the Pfizer vaccine. NACA Family Health Center

Medical Director Dr. George Hershey, D.O., smiled under his facemask as Verity Quiroz, R.N., administered the shot. He received the second dose on Jan. 5. “Doing my part, as everyone should, to eliminate this dastardly disease!” he said. Other early injections were felt on Tuesday, Dec. 22, in Flagstaff and Cottonwood. Recipients across the Northland high-fived, cheered, elbow-bumped and even shed tears of gratitude as doses of the Moderna vaccine were administered. “I am so excited,” said Flagstaff Medical Center Critical Care Nurse Stacey Payne, R.N. “I feel like our whole planet is coming together to give us hope to get out of this. I just really hope this will turn things around for us.” Continued on page 29

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Involved in making the Automotive Tech program a reality are (left to right) CCC faculty member Ken Myers, Findlay Honda Parts and Service Director Mimi Vessey; Findlay Honda General Manager Jacob Lundie; and CCC Dean of Career and Technical Education Lisa Blank. Courtesy photo

CCC Beginning Automotive Program Partnership with Findlay Honda helps fill gap in trained technicians

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By Larry Hendricks, FBN

he conversation is the same among auto dealerships locally and across the country: Where do we find trained technicians? “There’s a ridiculous shortage of technicians,” said Mimi Vessey, parts and service director for Findlay Honda of Flagstaff. Jacob Lundie, general manager for Findlay Honda, added, “We’re in meetings often, and we talk about, ‘where are we finding technicians?’” In order to fill a gap in trained automotive technicians locally and throughout the nation, Coconino Community College has partnered with Findlay Honda of Flagstaff to create an automotive technician program, and it is scheduled to begin this spring semester. “I am thrilled that CCC is finding a way to make this happen,” said CCC President Colleen Smith. “When I first arrived at the college, I started getting calls asking for an automotive program, and I have pushed our team on this even when the budget constraints made it seem impossible. After many meetings and discussions, I am excited that this is finally becoming a reality.” Smith added that she is proud of what the team at CCC and the staff at Findlay Honda have accomplished to support the creation of the program. “The partnership with Findlay Honda of Flagstaff is one we are particularly excited about,” said Lisa Blank, dean of Career and Technical Education at CCC. “As vehicles get more technologically advanced, educating automotive technicians gets more challenging, especially staying current with equipment needed.” Blank added that in the partnership with Findlay Honda, students benefit by getting to use the latest diagnostic technologies and garnering valuable hands-on professional training that can be immediately applied through

opportunities to work in the industry. The partnership also helps meet the urgent industry and community need for service technicians. Ken Myers, CTE faculty heading up the program for the college, said that the hiring for an instructor for the program is underway. A candidate will be selected to prepare for the first cohort of students to begin their studies when class resumes on Jan. 11. The immediate need for trained technicians is prompting the quick turnaround. “We’re getting to the point where we’re not getting enough young people in to replace people retiring from the industry,” Myers said, adding that individuals in Northern Arizona who want to train to become automotive technicians have to leave the area for the training, and they often don’t return. “Our goal is if we can train them locally, we can keep them locally.” Myers said that the first cohort of students will be limited to 12 in order to provide a safe learning environment, following CCC safety protocols, for the students during the COVID-19 pandemic. The classroom will be housed at the Findlay Honda facility on North Test Drive in East Flagstaff. Vessey said that two bays, complete with all the equipment, will be made available to CCC and the students. “We’re so excited about this program,” Vessey said. “This is a chance for us to give back a small portion of what the community has given us.” She added that the community has needed an automotive technician program, where students have access to the latest and greatest technology offered by the automotive mechanical industry. “This program allows us to tap into the upcoming talent and resources that we would normally lose to bigger metro areas,” Vessey said. “We would lose the talent that makes Flagstaff such a great place. By having this Continued on page 27

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Hot Sauce Entrepreneur Pours Himself into Real Estate Michael Konefal joins Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty

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By V. Ronnie Tierney, FBN

angy condiments and Mexican food specialties don’t necessarily mix with real estate, but for one Flagstaff realtor, the combination makes the perfect blend. After achieving great success with his popular hot sauce, tortillas and tamales, local entrepreneur and owner of RisingHy and Tortilla Lady, Michael Konefal has added realtor to his resume. “I’ve always had a passion for real estate,” said Konefal, an agent with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. “My best friend’s mom was a realtor and helping people find their dream homes attracted me to real estate. If I can help to be a steward, that would be great.” Married with two young children, Konefal graduated from Northern Arizona University (NAU) in 2005, with a degree in public relations and a minor in Spanish. He has lived in Arizona since 1989. During college, a failed and very messy attempt to brew beer led to an unlikely present from a friend. “That holiday season, my best buddy bought me a make-your-own hot sauce kit.

He told me if I can’t brew beer maybe I should try something else. So, I started making hot sauce. My college roommates were my guinea pigs.” Using an unconventional recipe devoid of vinegar, Konefal’s hot sauce blends are made with all-natural ingredients. Flavors include Habanero Hot, GreenGo Sauce, Chipotle Stinger and Honey Mustard. Infused with olive oil, his Citrus Cranberry and Devil Salt can be found online and at his Flagstaff retail store, 2114 N. Fourth St. In 2011, the Tortilla Lady, a local business that has been in Flagstaff since 2000, was up for sale, and Konefal, along with business partner, Dawn Graham, made an offer and purchased the business. Graham knew Konefal through her husband, who went to college with his older brother. “I started making hot sauce with Michael and we sold at farmers markets, home shows throughout the state and other places. Michael is a driver and very passionate about the things he takes on, which makes it easy to have a partner with those qualities.” Although they have staff to help out with both businesses, Graham and Konefal say they are 100% involved. The tortillas are sold in select grocery stores in Flagstaff and around the state. Now, Konefal is ready to pursue his goal of helping people realize their home

You may already love him for his Habanero Hot, but Michael Konefal hopes Flagstaff residents also develop a taste for his real estate service. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

ownership dreams. “I’ve been blessed to be able to develop great relationships in Flagstaff and hope that transfers well into real estate.” “We are proud to welcome Mike Konefal to the Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty family,” said Russ Lyon Sotherby’s Sales Manager Bret Lamberson. “He has been a fantastic part of our business community here in Flagstaff for well over a decade. His local expertise and integrity will be a great as-

set for anyone in the real estate market.” Konefal, an avid skier and fisherman, is bringing his familiarity with the Flagstaff outdoors lifestyle, knowledge of the area and business sense to his new pursuit. “Mike’s local knowledge of Flagstaff was immediately evident and we are so happy with where we ended up utilizing his services,” said new resident Jessica Zucker. Konefal’s father-in-law agrees. “Re-

ferring a family member is the highest compliment I could give to Mike and he has been a pleasure to work with,” said Flagstaff attorney Bryon Middlebrook. “From start to finish, we had 110% confidence the process would be smooth and he delivered. We are very pleased.” FBN Konefal can be reached at Michael.Konefal@ russlyon.com or 928-853-3810.

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Apricus Healthcare Model Increases Access to Physicians, Treatment Flagstaff Family Care joins statewide network to provide more immediate urgent and routine care

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By Betsey Bruner, FBN

he COVID-19 pandemic has altered how medical services are delivered, both for urgent and routine needs. With social distancing awareness and limits on access to facilities and walk-in traffic, face-toface visits with doctors have become less common; however, telehealth solutions have minimized the risk of spreading the virus by giving patients access to doctors online through the use of smartphones, tablets and computers. In the new year, these rapid medical innovations may now become solidly embedded in healthcare models. A group of about 30 Arizona physicians launched the Apricus Health Network in September. With a motto of “Care Your Way,” the Apricus model is designed to make health care easier and more affordable for Arizonans by providing flexible and convenient proactive healthcare solutions, “when you need it, delivered

how you want it,” according to the website. Apricus, the Latin word for sunshine, was chosen as the name for the company because the founding physicians believe that a bright and sunny outlook can go a long way in delivering quality care to communities. Beginning with headquarters in Scottsdale, the Apricus Health Network has currently expanded to 206 locations across Coconino, Yavapai, Maricopa and Pinal counties. It now encompasses 59 provider groups and more than 450 practitioners. Flagstaff Family Care Clinic joined the Apricus Health Network on Dec. 1. The business has two locations in Flagstaff, on South Yale and North Fourth streets, and a third in Sedona, on Northview Road, which was added to Flagstaff Family Care two years ago. “The decision to join the Apricus Health Network was an easy one,” said Flagstaff Family Care Clinic

founder Dr. Andrew Martin, M.D. “I am really excited about this opportunity for what Apricus is bringing to the table for our patients in Northern Arizona. Providing high quality, lowcost primary care has become more difficult. We have been providing chronic care management to our higher risk patients. With Apricus Health Network, our program will be so much better. We will have patient monitoring devices and patient care navigators. Our telehealth platform will be much better. Together, as a part of Apricus, we will do even better managing chronic conditions and improving health outcomes.” Physicians say partnering with Apricus will shift the focus from episodic care to a continuous care relationship, which “is especially [beneficial] in rural markets where accessibility to health care can be a challenge,” said Martin. Cardiologist and electrophysiologist Dr. Kishlay Anand, M.D., is the CEO of Apricus Health and co-founded the network in order “to move away from a traditional care delivery model to one that improves

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Dr. Andrew Martin, M.D.

Dr. Kishlay Anand, M.D.

access to quality care using technology as a means to extend and improve the care we can provide,” he explained. Anand, who is originally from New Delhi, India, has practiced in the Phoenix area for nine years. Dr. Swaraj Singh, who serves as chief medical information officer for Apricus, helped spearhead the creation of the new health network. “We wanted to help independent providers transition to payment mod-

els based on outcomes and satisfaction, to transition from fee-for-service to value-based service,” Anand explained. “We started in the Valley, but we saw that Northern Arizona had a lot of opportunities for growth. It’s an area where we felt we could bring a lot of value. We have a lot of services we felt would be appropriate for Northern Arizona.” To begin an Apricus expansion in Flagstaff seemed a natural choice to Continued on page 27

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JANUARY 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

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The Humphreys office is open and here to help! The bright star low on the horizon above SP crater is the Jupiter-Saturn conjunction captured from Babbitt Ranches Monday, Dec. 21. Courtesy photo by Chad de Alva

Eyes on Night Skies Flagstaff-area businesses and organizations measuring the darkness

With all clients and employees, safety precautions in place.

B

Stay Healthy Work Smarter Return Stronger “Together, we are BETTER for YOU!” Freddi Paulsrud 928.853.3737 Freddi.Paulsrud@russlyon.com Valerie Core 928.607.4344 Valerie.core@russlyon.com Nina Bedatsky 928.607.8017 Nina.Bedatsky@russlyon.com

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

219 N. Humphreys Road, Flagstaff, AZ 86001

By Bonnie Stevens, FBN

abbitt Ranches is believed to have some of the darkest skies in Northern Arizona and soon, scientists expect to have the data to prove it. Astronomer and Northern Arizona University Campus Observatory Director Ed Anderson says preliminary measurements taken at four locations on the ranches – north of Wupatki National Monument, near SP Crater off Highway 89, north of Cedar Ranch camp and near Tin House ranch camp north of the San Francisco Peaks – all reveal extraordinary dark sky quality. “We’re at ‘excellent’ for all four sites,” he said. Anderson and Babbitt Ranches President and General Manager Billy Cordasco gathered data in December using a new night sky brightness monitoring system for a project called Eyes on Night Skies (EONS), developed by Dark Sky Partners, LLC, of Flagstaff. The EONS project is designed to address the increasing concern of man-made light in the night sky around the world. “The EONS project uses light meters similar to exposure meters photographers may have pointed at their subjects years ago,” said astronomer Chris Luginbuhl of Dark Sky Partners. “It points straight up and senses the light that comes from a portion of the sky overhead. It’s not able to distinguish light pollution from starlight and moonlight, but you can determine the natural conditions by knowing the characteristics of the location and by studying how it changes over time. For example, when the Milky Way passes overhead, the measurement goes up.” Astronomers use a measurement scale where larger numbers correspond to lower or fainter brightness. The International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) rates the quality of starry nights for locations considered for dark sky recognition. “For Dark Sky Reserve status, the numbers at various locations have to be greater than 20. Anything less than 20 is too bright,” said Anderson. “A city sky is less than 18. A bright suburban sky might be 19. A rural sky is nominally about 21. A truly dark site is darker than 21.5. Our preliminary data shows Babbitt Ranches at 21.6.” Babbitt Ranches is bordered by locations that have received IDA dark sky designations.

Light meters in the Eyes on Night Skies (EONS) project will be measuring the brightness of Flagstaff-area starry nights over time. Courtesy photo

Flagstaff is the first International Dark Sky City; Flagstaff Area National Monuments – including Sunset Crater Volcano, Walnut Canyon and Wupatki – and Grand Canyon National Park are all recognized IDA International Dark Sky Parks. In an effort to measure and monitor Northern Arizona’s darkness over time, Babbitt Ranches will be working with Dark Sky Partners and installing battery-operated EONS stations, which will each collect data every five minutes every night, or almost 100,000 measurements every year. NAU, Lowell Observatory and U.S. Geological Survey also are participating in the EONS project. Luginbuhl plans to have seven of the sophisticated light meters operating around the Flagstaff area by the end of 2021. “We’re looking for long-term trends and how the sky is changing with growth,” said Luginbuhl. “Measurements from nearly pristine areas like Babbitt Ranches and from locations with well-controlled lighting like Flagstaff contribute a lot to the understanding of light pollution and natural variations.” “Along with the Babbitt Ranches community, we’re thrilled to participate with the EONS project in the collection of information to learn and understand more about our dark skies in Northern Arizona, as well as be thinking forward as to how to maintain and conserve these beautiful night skies for future generations,” said Cordasco. Luginbuhl and Dark Sky Partners will analyze the EONS data from Babbitt Ranches and elsewhere. FBN

JANUARY 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

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Business Woman FBN

of the Month

Marjorie Todd Believes in Holistic Care for Senior Living Highgate CEO is known for her interest in people and their communities

S

By V. Ronnie Tierney, FBN

ometimes the desires of our hearts and early life ventures can lead the way to a successful and fulfilling career. For Highgate Senior Living CEO Marjorie Todd, stepping into a hospital as a candy striper at age 14 ushered her on to a position as activity assistant at a senior living home just a few years later. “I fell in love with working with seniors and found my calling,” she said. “I worked with people who had late- to mid-state cognitive impairment and dementia.” Todd says working with seniors has been her life’s work, with the exception of running a recreation center when her children were young. Today, those children are adults. She and her husband, Richard have a son, Ethan, 28, and daughter Sabrina, 27. Todd began her career with Highgate Senior Living in 2009 as vice president of operations. “What drew me to Highgate was the attraction of a small privately-held company. We’re a whole different community using a holistic approach to care.” She had researched Flagstaff for several years before the decision was made to bring Highgate there. The property is scheduled to open this spring on McMillan Mesa. “I personally spent the last five to six years working on the development project and doing market studies,” she said. I talked to people in Flagstaff and have interacted with City Council members and business professionals. It appears they are so aligned with the holistic approach.” Todd has been involved in the planning, development and implementation of the construction project. “Being the only female in a male atmosphere helped me to understand how our property is put together and it’s brought a lot of personal fulfillment to me.” Todd lives on the outskirts of Seattle in the foothills of the Cascades; however, she is very familiar with Northern Arizona. Her daughter attended

Northern Arizona University (NAU) and continues to live in Flagstaff. “Flagstaff is such a great community,” said Todd, who enjoys getting to know people wherever she is, a personality trait that endears her to co-workers. “Marjorie is a fantastic role model and her management style is very welcoming,” said Highgate Community Relations Coordinator Joshua Bryant. “She loves to hear people’s suggestions and likes when people approach her with any ideas that can best suit the community. I’ve worked with a lot of senior communities and have never had a CEO be so handson. She’s very engaging and knows who everyone is.” Like Highgate at Prescott, the Flagstaff facility will offer assisted living, memory care and couples care. Amenities will include spa services, including massage, a hair salon and barbershop, a fitness room and cinema. Highgate is known for its restaurant quality meals and atmosphere. The Flagstaff property also will feature a bar with local craft beers. Todd says Highgate incorporates a Positive Approach to Care (PAC), a gentle, unique and internationally renowned method of working with memory care residents. Highgate Senior Living facilities are also known for their integration in the community. “The Greater Flagstaff Chamber is excited to welcome Highgate Senior Living and their services and holistic approach to senior care in our region,” said Chamber Vice President of Investor Relations Kat Ross. “Since Highgate Senior Living entered the market last year, they have been a very active partner with the Chamber and have been genuinely interested in becoming a contributing member of the community as a whole.” Flagstaff is Highgate’s 10th community across the West. Besides Prescott, other properties are located in California, Montana and Washington. For more information, visit highgateseniorliving.com or call 928-707-6361. FBN

Top: Marjorie Todd promotes meaningful and fulfilling lives for individuals of every age. Bottom: Last summer, she celebrated the groundbreaking of the Flagstaff facility with local leaders and businesspeople. Courtesy photo

JANUARY 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

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Office Space Momentum Anticipated in the New Year How tenants can protect themselves and benefit when signing or renewing a lease

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By Bonnie Stevens, FBN

here is no doubt, COVID-19 has had a colossal impact on how and where we do business. Now, as we usher in the new year with a massive rollout of vaccines, Americans are optimistic about an end to our “new normal,” healing for an exhausted healthcare industry and recovery for an ailing economy. However, economists and business owners predict the pandemic’s after-effects will linger on. Some of those impacts may affect lawyers, accountants, insurance agents, realtors, stockbrokers and other businesspeople who will be renewing an existing lease or renting a new office space as they move out of the home office they’ve been occupying during the pandemic. Bo Sederstrom, senior vice president with Citywide Commercial Real Estate and an Arizona broker for 30 years, offers suggestions for how commercial tenants can protect themselves in the new year.

PAY ATTENTION TO THE BOMA STANDARD

In recent years, the Building Owners

and Managers Association (BOMA) has changed its guidelines for how office space is measured, which may cause rents to rise for some tenants. “BOMA contends that private balconies, covered galleries and rooftop terraces can now be calculated as usable space,” said Sederstrom. “Tenants should look at the space measurement section of their lease and pay attention to the BOMA standard. Most people won’t know what that means. If the lease was written with a BOMA 2010 standard, that was before the new measurement was adopted. You don’t want that to change with a lease renewal.” Previously, those features were considered amenities to the space. Sederstrom says the trend to charge for the extra square footage is catching on in California and elsewhere, but tenants don’t have to accept this new measurement method and should discuss it with their current or prospective landlords.

WHAT ARE YOUR OPERATING EXPENSES? Janitorial costs, landscaping maintenance and utilities are expenses

associated with keeping the office running and usually can be managed, projected and controlled. But a new roof, paving a parking lot, or a remodel of bathrooms are not operating expenses. “Tenants should always be on the lookout for unforeseen expenses, but particularly in tough economic times. Less scrupulous landlords, who need to make more money on rents, may be looking for costs they can pass on to their building’s occupants,” said Sederstrom. “For true operating expenses, it’s important that the lease addresses some kind of cap on those, such as a 5% ceiling.”

DEVELOP A FORECLOSURE AWARENESS

Landlords across the country are facing financial challenges as some businesses are closing under the strain of shutdowns and stay-at-home orders and vacating their office spaces. For tenants who are in a building that is becoming noticeably ghost-town quiet, Sederstrom recommends they get to know who the lender is that is financing the building. “In difficult markets, you want to develop a relationship with that lender and let him or her know you are current on your rent payments and you want to stay in that building – which you probably do because your

clients know where to find you and it’s expensive to move and advertise your new location,” said Sederstrom. “If something bad happens, like the building is going to be foreclosed on because there aren’t enough renters to cover the landlord’s mortgage, you want to be ahead of the game. Having an early dialogue with the lender may gain you valuable information, help you remain in your office or buy you some time to help you plan for a smooth transition to another location.”

DO YOU HAVE A NON DISTURBANCE AGREEMENT?

A Non Disturbance Agreement (NDA) is a provision in a lease that ensures the arrangement between the tenant and the landlord will continue under any circumstance. For example, an NDA can ensure that a tenant will not be evicted if the building faces foreclosure. “Unfortunately, if the lease doesn’t contain an NDA that is acknowledged by the lender, tenants can find themselves in a sticky situation. This is another reason to have a good relationship with the lender,” said Sederstrom. “If your location has a lot to do with your visibility and profitability, or key staff members or clients live nearby, or it has psychological value like access to your favorite restaurants or the area

CARRY-OUT

fresh

Bo Sederstrom

is aesthetically pleasing, maintaining your office is important to you. It has a value beyond just being a place to do your work. You may be willing to pay a little more to secure your right to stay. So, whether you are currently renting your space or actively looking for office space, you’ll want to have a discussion about a Non Disturbance Agreement so you can eliminate future problems.”

ANTICIPATING RECOVERY

As the economy regains its footing, Sederstrom maintains there will be fallContinued on page 27

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Studies reveal that having caring, involved adults in children’s lives helps them build protective factors. For example, Coconino County Supervisor Patrice Horstman, shown here in the back row on the right before the pandemic, is one of many Northern Arizona women who volunteer their time with Girl Scouts. Courtesy photo

Childhood Inequities, Neglect, Abuse Hidden in Pandemic CCC&Y reveals how intentional actions strengthen lives, families, communities and the workforce

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By Bonnie Stevens, FBN

irginia Watahomigie is worried about our families. As the executive director for the Coconino Coalition for Children and Youth (CCC&Y), she knows that isolation, depression and anxiety – all conditions mental health experts say have been made worse by the pandemic – are increasingly having a negative effect on children in Arizona, particularly in rural areas where resources are less available than in larger cities and distances to travel for support are far greater. Watahomigie also is very much aware that Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) increase the chances for children to grow up with addiction and substance abuse problems, chronic health and mental health issues and other negative outcomes later in life, including violence and criminal behavior. “It is clear that preventing childhood trauma is a very important step,” she said, “but there is much we can do as a community to build protective factors and promote resilience.” Community-involved business professionals and educators experience first-hand how not every child is raised in a supportive family or treated equally at school. But kindness, encouragement and involvement from adults in a child’s life can have a ripple effect that impacts the individual in a positive way and also benefits the greater community and future workforce. “It’s easy to picture two kids with the same background, who go on two different trajectories throughout their lives,” said Watahomigie. “For example, let’s say Timmy suffered abuse

at home. There were strangers in and out of the house, a lack of food and trauma in his family’s history. Neighbors are uncomfortable around him because his manners seem off and his clothes are dirty. He goes to school, is constantly being punished and gets suspended. Compare that to Sam’s world, where he is treated with kindness, involved in afterschool activities, encouraged as an athlete, welcomed into homes for a meal and invited to build relationships with other kids. It’s easy to see how Sam is set up to develop a sense of self, belonging and purpose.” Communities make a difference, she says. “Those who don’t understand trauma can cause further trauma.” Former Flagstaff Unified School District Board member and teacher Julianne Hartzell says COVID-19 has made it more difficult for community members to see signs of childhood trauma, neglect and abuse, as children are more isolated than ever before, sheltering in place and learning from home. She says as many as half the children in the public school system have had Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). “The education system is now a social service system,” said Hartzell. “We don’t just educate the child anymore, we provide food, counseling and support services for the family.” Watahomigie notes that the pandemic is demonstrating yet more unevenness of impact. Families who were already dealing with traumatic histories and poverty experiences have even fewer resources during times of national and global crisis. Hartzell, who has a master’s degree in guidance counseling, is an advocate for public education and a volunteer for CCC&Y, says schools aren’t treated equally and rural communities receive fewer resources. “Funding for schools is based on student population,” she said. “And, people in Phoenix don’t understand the distances we have to travel in smaller communities for education, medical services and activities. It’s challenging Continued on page 29

JANUARY 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

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NAU Partners with Mexican University to Offer Students Cross-Cultural Entrepreneurial Experience

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grant from 100,000 Strong in the Americas will give a dozen Northern Arizona University students the opportunity for a unique cross-cultural learning experience with peers at both NAU and a university in Sonora, Mexico. NAU is partnering with Universidad de Sonora (UNISON) in Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico to put on The Big IDEA (La Gran IDEA), which will allow 12 students from each university to collaborate on finding solutions to challenges of food security and financial security in the Arizona/Sonora Megaregion. It is based on Jacks Big IDEA, which is put on by boundaryless@nau. The grant winners were announced last month; NAU was one of 11 universities in the United States to win funding. The 100,000 Strong in the Americas (100K) Innovation Fund is a public-private sector collaboration between the U.S. Department of State, U.S. embassies and Partners of the Americas, working with companies, foundations and academic networks to stimulate and support higher education partnerships between the United States and the rest

of the Western Hemisphere. These higher education partnerships ensure that students have access to academic training programs that help them gain experience working in teams, solving real-world problems, doing research and gaining technical and linguistic skills imperative for today’s workforce. Kristin Allen, a program manager in Strategic Global Initiatives at the Center for International Education and principal investigator on the grant, said in this binational project, the six four-student teams will each have to create a product or service that addresses a specific issue affecting the region. This will happen in four phases, the first of which will take place in August and September, and will be entirely virtual. The teams, which will be comprised of two students from each university, will receive their problem statements, meet virtually with faculty advisers from NAU and UNISON to get context on these issues, all of which will be related to financial inclusion and agriculture/food sustainability, and will attend an online interdisciplinary design workshop.

In the second phase later in the fall, the students will meet in Hermosillo, get to know their teammates, make site visits to local communities and continue to discuss their ideas for their product or service. For phase three, the students will be in Flagstaff; they will have 48 hours to refine their design and then will pitch it to a panel of judges, which will include industry and community leaders and faculty members. For the final phase, the winning team will travel to Mexico to present their product or service to leaders at Fundación Banorte or Fundación Gruma, which are sponsoring this round of grants. All travel is dependent on the COVID-19 pandemic and will be reconsidered as necessary. “The benefits really are astronomical at every level,” Allen said. “The students will gain the ability to work in cross-cultural teams, learn how to communicate with one another in different languages and gain the know-how and expertise to confront the challenges faced by a global workforce. For NAU, working with the two universities allows us to expand our educational presence and bring

new ideas and perspectives to our campus and expand our internationalization efforts. On the international scale, these grants are a way to facilitate diplomacy efforts between countries through higher education.” Curtis Smith, the boundaryless@ nau director, is the co-PI. Professor Alder Keleman Saxena of the Department of Anthropology and Director Joseph Guzman of the Economic Policy Institute are key faculty contributors to the program and will provide support to the student teams. This program is open to undergraduate students from all majors and years in school; knowledge of Spanish is not required. Applications will open during the spring semester. This is NAU’s fifth Innovation Fund grant and the second in two years. Last year’s project was Leaders United for Positive Energy, which was an interdisciplinary learning course that started conversations about sustainability and ethics in the energy sector, led by Interdisciplinary Programs Director Melissa Armstrong and Allen. NAU collaborated with UNISON and three universities from Argentina on the program. FBN

// “The benefits really are astronomical at every level,” Allen said. “The students will gain the ability to work in cross-cultural teams, learn how to communicate with one another in different languages and gain the know-how and expertise to confront the challenges faced by a global workforce.” //

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Flagstaff Business News // JANUARY 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com

th’s Heal Year n i w e Dar of th O C A 2016 Award: on Regi n r e West inner W

Rated Number ONE in Arizona by CMS for Quality and Savings

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ommonwealth Accountable Care Organization (ACO) is a partnership of Flagstaff Physicians working together to improve the health of people in Northern Arizona. Our goals: • enhancing communication between all medical providers and clinics • streamlining processes • providing quality cost-effective care • improving health outcomes. We understand that you have a choice when deciding where you receive medical care, which is why we have created the largest network of local primary care providers working together to benefit our patients through seamless coordination of care. Commonwealth is a federally approved ACO participating in the Medicare Shared Savings Program.

Go to

MyHealthcareTeam.net and take that first step to select a Commonwealth Primary Care Provider.

Commonwealth ACO participating primary care providers: Flagstaff Family Care 928-527-4325 With three locations to serve you 2001 4th Street 1501 S. Yale Street, Bldg 2 Suite 150 Flagstaff, AZ 86001 120 Northview Rd. # 1 Sedona, AZ 86336 Keith Arnold M.D. Michelle Doroz, D.O. Andrew Martin, M.D. Meghan O’Donnell, M.D. Rebecca Miller, M.D. Mary Porvaznik M.D. Nick Palidis M.D. Candace Patel N.P. Michelle Peters N.P. Neurology Candace Patel FNP-BC Elysia Small PA Austin Grace PA Karen Damgaard, PA

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Northern Arizona Radiology 928-773-2515 77 W Forest Ave Ste 101 Flagstaff, AZ 86001 www.northernarizonaradiology.com Northern Arizona Hospice 928.779.9795 928.774.1497 1501 S Yale Street Suite 201, Flagstaff AZ 86001 Northern Arizona Home Health 928-773-2238 1501 S. Yale Street, Suite 101 Flagstaff, AZ 86001

East Flagstaff Family Medicine, Ltd. 928-774-2788 Northeast Professional Plaza 1515 E. Cedar Ave., Suite A-3 Flagstaff, AZ 86004 www.eastflagfamilymed.com Bradford Croft, D.O. Sara Reeves, FNP Joshua Makela, PA-C Andrew Conboy, PA-C Ryan Internal Medicine 928-213-5881 1350 Rim Dr. Flagstaff, AZ 86001 www.ryanim.com Keith Ryan, MD Sherrill Weller, DO Cindy Martin, MD

Prescott Army Veteran Survives Two Pandemics

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WII Army Veteran Milton Zaczek celebrated his 101st birthday in early November with an enjoyable get-together with friends. However, a few weeks later, he received a less-than-pleasant surprise – a COVID-19 positive diagnosis. Early one day, Zaczek had planned to go driving with a friend but began to feel unwell. He felt so sick that he asked his friend to take him instead to the Emergency Department at the Northern Arizona VA Health Care System in Prescott. After testing positive for COVID-19, Zaczek was admitted to the hospital for treatment of his serious symptoms. “The food was great, but I missed my home and my own bed,” said Zaczek. “The nurses, doctors and all the staff were absolutely professional and accommodating. They were so concerned and always made sure that I was comfortable and had everything I needed.” Zaczek served in the Army from 1941 to 1945 as a squad leader in the Infantry. Serving on the front line, he said that he remembers it like it was just yesterday. “I can clearly remember fighting against the Japanese. They opened up with a machine gun on my squad,” said Zaczek. “The guy next to me was shot and I pulled him out of the line of fire and did what I could until the medics arrived.” The soldier caught up with Zaczek years

later to say thank you for saving his life. During WWII, Zaczek also served in the Panama Canal, Australia, New Guinea, the Philippines, and, finally, Germany. When his company was deployed to the Philippines, they were ordered to climb a mountain and overtake an enemy’s position. Zaczek remembers it was a huge mountain, but his team completed the mission and saved a nearby village. His unit received a Presidential Citation for their actions. Born during the Spanish Influenza pandemic, Zaczek was cared for by his brother while his parents were at work. He’s been told that one day, he became feverish and his brother became so alarmed that he took him to a local doctor for help. Just like then, Zaczek has recovered from a serious illness and returned home. “I am finally feeling back to myself,” said Zaczek. “Lying in bed for five days takes a toll on you and now I want to get back to normal.” Zaczek’s daughter, who lives in Maryland, calls every day to check in. Now, he is looking forward to traveling around Arizona with his friend. He says they have plans to go to Thumb Butte and Sedona soon. “Milton has given me hope,” said Kara Johnson, M.D., Zacke’s primary care provider. “He lived through Spanish Influenza, WWII, COVID-19, and he still has such a positive attitude. He has helped me to see that we all can push through and live our lives.” FBN

Johannes to Lead Human Resources at Cliff Castle Casino

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ay Johannes has joined Cliff Castle Casino Hotel as the director of human resources, after having recently served in a similar position at Naskila Gaming in Texas. Prior to that role, Johannes held both the manager and the director of human resources positions at Snoqualmie Casino in Washington and was the team member relations manager at Treasure Island Resort and Casino in Minnesota. “Cliff Castle Casino Hotel is very pleased and excited to welcome Day Johannes,” said General Manager Aaron Moss. “She comes with a very diverse human resources background with extensive experience in tribal gaming. We look forward to adding Day to the Cliff Castle Team!” Day Johannes “I’m excited to be working with a talented staff dedicated to excellence at Cliff Castle Casino Hotel,” said Johannes. “I look forward to collaborating with the team to implement standardized Team Member Development programs to include rewards and recognition.” FBN

JANUARY 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

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Festive Flagstaff Invites Social Distancing Outdoors Heated gazebos added to Heritage Square

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ocals and visitors alike can enjoy a winter wonderland gazebo experience at Heritage Square in the heart of Flagstaff’s downtown to dine, relax, enjoy thousands of twinkling lights and lamp posts decked with wreaths, and admire festive storefronts reminiscent of cherished Norman Rockwell scenes. Taking advantage of the crisp mountain air and responsible social distancing, the gazebos are outfitted with a dining table and chairs (providing space for as many as eight people), bistro lights and warmth from heating elements. Each exterior is adorned with lighted miniature spruce trees. “Offering outdoor winter seating supports the local economy, enhances the community, and provides more health and safety measures for visitors and residents,” said City of Flagstaff Economic Vitality Director Heidi Hansen. “The City of Flagstaff partnered with the Downtown Business Alliance on the installation of the new gazebos that are intended to remain at Heritage Square through March 2021. Downtown Ambassadors will periodically monitor and sanitize the gazebo tables and chairs, but it is recommended guests be equipped to manage their own cleaning processes.” The city is also looking into how surrounding restaurants may be able to provide sanitizing wipes to those who order takeout for gazebo enjoyment. The gazebos are mildly insulated to provide adequate ventilation and are sized for social distancing, as they are designed for small groups in the same party. FBN

Heritage Square offers warmth to winter evenings. Courtesy photo

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Flagstaff Business News // JANUARY 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com

// BUSINESS CENTS // BY BONNIE STEVENS

Resiliency in Action: Keeping Calm, Saving Lives

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esiliency is the ability to stand strong through a storm, not buckle beneath the weight of adversity, problem-solve under pressure, remain calm even as others may not and, I would add, maintain integrity through challenging and shifting circumstances. The most admirable examples of resiliency I’ve witnessed include: getting through a tough situation with an awareness and concern for others; exhibiting the self-control and discipline necessary to stay focused on the best possible outcome; and, performing whatever role you are being called upon to take. History acknowledges resiliency in the aftermath of difficult times, for sure. Those living through it experience resiliency in action through human performance and describe it as heroic. Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and chief medical advisor to President-elect Biden, told NBC News Anchor Savannah Guthrie, “We are going through very, very difficult times.” I’m reminded of when Arizona and the nation experienced resiliency in

action, live on television. I call it, “The Night Phoenix Became a Big City.” It started just before 5 p.m. on Friday, May 28, 1982, when resiliency was tested inside the KOOL-TV studios. Here’s what happened through the eyes of 10 p.m. News Producer Doug Drew: I had produced hundreds of newscasts, but for the first time ever, all of a sudden, my lead story was happening right before my eyes. Our 5 p.m. newscast was co-anchored – Mary Jo West reported the news from the newsroom, Bill Close anchored in the large TV studio in our other building across an alley. Only about 50 yards separated the two. All of a sudden, reporter Sal Quijada burst into the newsroom to say that a man with a gun had gotten into the studio with Bill Close. It wasn’t long before our television station was filled with police officers with guns, inside and outside. I had to take something to the control room, and when I walked in, I remember the strange scene, police officers shoulder to shoulder with our station management, with the producer, director and other

technical staff. Yet, everyone seemed so calm. That, despite the fact that when I looked into the studio through the glass that separated it from the control room, there was the man with the gun holding Louie Villa, the teleprompter operator, at gunpoint. Louie appeared to have some blood on him. With a gunman just a few feet away, the mood in the control room, while tense, was serene. There was no yelling, no sense of panic. Everyone seemed to be in total control, from the police to station management, to the producer, director and other technical staff. And the person who had the right to be the most panicked of all, Bill Close, didn’t seem panicked at all! I watched as he talked in a calm voice to the gunman, to the producers, to the police through a studio phone and eventually to the viewers who would be witnessing the hostage situation as it played out on live TV. I returned to the newsroom and knew for the first time in my life my lead story would be about the very people with whom I worked! Meanwhile, Anchorwoman Mary Jo West was seated in her usual chair

in the newsroom under the bright glow of studio lights awaiting her cue from the floor director to begin the newscast. “I’m sitting there and I hear in my earpiece, ‘You’re going to be anchoring the news alone.’ My first thought is Bill died of a heart attack. He was never sick and never late,” she said. At about the same time, Production Assistant Nancy Petranka came running into the newsroom, screaming and visibly shaking. We later learn that she had come face-to-face with the armed intruder. She said she started to move away from him, “Then, Louis Villa came towards him and that’s when I made a move to run away,” she told reporter Mike Arra. In the 1980s, television monitors rimmed the KOOL-TV newsroom. Studio cameras were positioned on Close. Also in the camera frame was Joseph Billie Gwin behind our anchorman holding Villa in a chokehold at gunpoint. Producers, assignment editors, reporters, videographers and writers had a front-row seat to the frightening scene through the monitors of the newsroom. There was no question the situation

was serious. Gwin had already fired one shot in the studio. He had a black bag and we wondered if there were more weapons, a bomb perhaps. We soon learned he brought his own television monitor so he could watch what went out on the air. “As the news came on, news reporters [from all over the Phoenix area] parked in front of me, sitting very calmly,” said West. “I said to myself, ‘You can do this.’ I pulled out my acting chops, blocked out everything else and told viewers the news of the day.” The news of the day, as it was broadcast at 5 p.m. from KOOL-TV, did not include the hostage situation. “At the end of the newscast, I ran as fast I could to the bathroom to throw up,” said West, who had been physically pushing herself all week in a police bootcamp for a series called “Women Cops,” which later caught the attention of CBS network management and opened the door for her anchor position in New York. About 30 minutes into the hostage situation, News Director Bill Miller convened everyone who was working on the 10 p.m. newscast. He anContinued on page 30

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JANUARY 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

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Exploring the Lyric Hearing Aid and Tinnitus Masker

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By Karon Lynn, Au.D.

he Lyric is a hearing aid that is housed inside the ear canal for extended periods of time. No need to change a battery or put the hearing aid in a recharging device at night. All you need to do is go to your audiologist and ask to try a pair of them for free!

DISCREET AMPLIFICATION

The most amazing consequence of wearing the Lyric is that you are a “normal” person. You do not have to be careful with your hearing aids around the house so the dog or cat does not eat them when you take

them off. You can remove your glasses without catching the hearing aid and having it fly across the room. You can remove your facemask without worrying that your hearing aids will be lost. You can put on your motorcycle helmet or bicycle helmet without fear of losing the hearing aid. You can even swim, on top of the water, while wearing Lyric, although you must wear earplugs to protect the Lyric from excessive water while lap swimming or kayaking and bathing. No one will politely remind you to put your hearing aids in every morning while you are simply trying to enjoy your coffee and newspaper. People enjoy the fact that they wake

// The sound of these aids is different from other inthe-ear hearing aids because of the location in the ear canal. The canal wall has different composition as it extends to the eardrum. The Lyric sits deeper in the canal than any other hearing aid. The depth is one of the biggest secrets to the successful sound transmission. //

up hearing normally and are able to hear house noise at night similar to the other family members.

LYRIC SOUND IS CLEAR

The sound of speech is clear and distinct. You are able to understand your friends and family under most circumstances. Extremely loud environments will present a challenge, but my patients report that 95% of the time they are very happy with the sound quality.

THE LYRIC DIFFERENCE

The sound of these aids is different from other in-the-ear hearing aids because of the location in the ear canal. The canal wall has different composition as it extends to the eardrum. The Lyric sits deeper in the canal than any other hearing aid. The depth is one of the biggest secrets to the successful sound transmission. The Lyric sits ¼ of an inch from the eardrum in the boney portion of the canal. The composition of bone rather than cartilage and fat reduces the echo that many people hear with traditional hearing aids. The Lyric takes advantage of the outer ear, or pinna, in its ability to focus on the sound that the listener is facing. Finally, the power needs are much less because it

is so close to the eardrum; thus, there is less distortion of sound.

THE LYRIC SOUND IS ADJUSTABLE

The Lyric comes with a wand that is designed to change the volume or even mute the sound completely. It has a sleep mode if you prefer to hear at your pre-hearing aid level. There are many options so that the sound can be modified by the person wearing Lyric.

LYRIC FOR TINNITUS

Tinnitus is a noise that is heard by a person either in the brain or in an ear. It can be a whistle, buzz, chirp or hissing sound. There are numerous descriptions of the noise that can be heard by someone. The Lyric is a great way to either reduce tinnitus or completely eliminate the sound. Many patients will be astounded that the minute the Lyric is placed into the canal, the noise they hear is gone! Anyone who wants to find out if he or she will benefit is welcome to try out a Lyric for free.

REMOVING THE LYRIC

The person using a Lyric is able to remove it at any time. A tool is provided that

is placed in the ear canal and attaches to a loop on the outer edge of the device. I have had people attempt to replace their device, but by not using the specialized tool, the ear canal was scratched. The Lyric must be reinserted by the audiologist. The fit is comfortable only if it is placed in the canal at the proper depth and at the proper angle.

REPLACING THE LYRIC

The Lyric battery will last more than two months. Sometimes it will last up to three months, but it is safe to say that the Lyric should be replaced every two months. The audiologist will remove the Lyric, clean the ear canal and place a new Lyric in the ear canal. Even if you wear traditional hearing aids, you should try out this new technology on a free trial. FBN Trinity Hearing Center is located at 1330 N. Rim Dr., Suite B in Flagstaff. For more information, visit TrinityHearing.net. Karon Lynn, Au.D., is a doctor of audiology with 30 years of experience working with hearing impaired individuals. Dr. Lynn may be reached at 928-522-0500 or at audio@trinityhearing.net.

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Flagstaff Business News // JANUARY 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Setting Up Your Workspace for Success in 2021

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By Armando Bernasconi

ast year, having a home office went from being a luxury for people who telecommuted to a necessity for a huge part of our population. Work-life balance took on a whole new meaning as we tried to be productive while having children, pets and partners around 24/7. Although everyone is hopeful that more people will be able to safely return to their traditional workplaces in 2021, it’s likely that home offices will be with

// A well-organized workspace can help us concentrate and work more efficiently, according to neuroscientists. When we have clutter, we get distracted because the various visual stimuli compete for our brain’s attention. //

us for the immediate future. We at QC Office (qcoffice.org) would like to offer some suggestions on setting up your workplace for success in the new year, whether you are in a traditional workspace or doing your job from home. Minimize distractions. It’s easy to imagine that the biggest distraction while working from home is a constant stream of children needing your help or attention while you are trying to work. That can be true, and many parents and caregivers have come up with solutions to let their loved ones know if and when they can be interrupted. Our favorite is a door sign that says: “Mom is working. Do not disturb unless (1) you’re bleeding; (2) the house is on fire; (3) the Amazon guy is Jason Momoa.” However, the biggest time culprit for most people, whether working in the office or at home, is notifications. It is so tempting to stop everything, read and respond to emails, tweets, slacks, texts or more the moment you see that pop-up on your computer or hear the “ping” of your phone. The reason these interruptions are so insidious is because they not only cost you the time it takes to read and respond to these messages, they also derail your train of thought and flow and it can take up to 20 minutes to get back in “the zone.” The easiest solution? Shut off those

notifications if possible and then set up two or three times a day when you check and respond to emails and social media. Clear the clutter. A well-organized workspace can help us concentrate and work more efficiently, according to neuroscientists. When we have clutter, we get distracted because the various visual stimuli compete for our brain’s attention. However, the amount of neatness or organization we need to get work done will depend on the type of work we are doing and our personalities. For some people, clutter can be debilitating. Others find a little clutter helpful. This is particularly true of “right brain” workers such as writers and artists, where multiple visual stimuli can inspire connections and creativity. The key is finding the tools you need to organize your workspace so that it works for you. Tools like drawer organizers, folder trays and desk caddies can help you keep everything in its place. Regardless of your tolerance for clutter, here are a couple of hints for keeping things under control in your workspace. Once a day, clear out anything on your desk that doesn’t have to do with work – coffee mugs, utensils or your child’s homework. Then, once a week, get rid of any paper you’ve accu-

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mulated that you really don’t need. Your desk is important. We’ve talked about items on your workspace, but now let’s consider the desk itself. There’s an impressive range of desks out there in terms of materials, costs and utility that can be tailored to your workplace or home office needs. For example, if you have a dedicated room that serves as your office, an L-shaped desk will provide you with two large work areas. If space is tight, a mobile laptop caddy might be the answer. There are traditional desks that you sit at and desks that can be raised and lowered to give you the option of standing while you work. “It’s important to remember that most office furniture is available in smaller sizes that are better suited to home offices,” said CT McMurray, sales manager at QC Office. Your chair is even more important. If you don’t plan to stand while you are doing office work, your most important investment might be your chair. Face it – if you are not comfortable in your chair, you will constantly find reasons to get up from it and that’s not conducive to getting work done. Meanwhile, besides comfort, you are going to want support. Hours of sitting can put stress

on your back, so investing in an ergonomic desk chair will spare you pain and stiffness in the future. Use color. It’s not what we typically think of in terms of office décor, but the color in your workspace does play a role in how you work. If you are working from home, you have a lot more control of the color of your walls and can personalize your space more. Much of your color palette will depend on personal preference, but there are studies that have associated color with workplace productivity. Blues tend to be calming in a hectic environment, although they can also be associated with the cold, so you might want to use accents of warmer tones like brown or green to balance it out. Green is also a peaceful color and has the additional benefit of reducing eye strain. While all-white offices can feel a little clinical, the use of large sections of white can make a smaller office look bigger. We hope your workspace in 2021 is a place where you can feel productive and enjoy the success of your labors. If you need any help in freshening up your space, getting more organized and having supplies delivered to you, please give QC Office a call at 928-527-3223 or visit us online at qcoffice.org. FBN

JANUARY 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

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// COMMUNITY PROFILE // BY V. RONNIE TIERNEY, FBN

Former Wrangler Shares Grand Canyon Life Through Art Drawn to the Colorado River, Mary Lois Brown has lived a colorful life as a mule wrangler, camp cook and, now, artist By V. Ronnie Tierney, FBN

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lthough Artist Mary Lois Brown had never traveled more than 20 miles outside of her small town in Pennsylvania, a river trip at the Grand Canyon in the late 1970s swept her miles away to a new home and a new job. Not only did that trip spur a love for the canyon, but also a love for the mules. In 1981, Brown accepted a job as one of only two women wranglers at the Grand Canyon. “I wanted an outdoor job,” she said. “There was one other woman wrangler that year, Shirley Bell, but I was the only one to make it through the winter as a guide.” After spending a total of three years as a wrangler, Brown revisited her former profession as a hairstylist

and obtained the contract for the beauty salon at the Bright Angel Lodge. “I didn’t move to the Grand Canyon for a job, I went there for the canyon. I purchased the contract for the salon so I could do what I wanted, hiking and volunteering for the park service on the Colorado River. With this (salon) job, I had to get up and go to work but they didn’t tell me when. As a wrangler you have to be on time.” Bright Angel Hair Design was the official name of Brown’s salon, which she ran for 17 years. “The beauty salon was there since the 1940s, and during that time, the well- known and respected architect Mary Colter got her hair done there,” said Brown. Currently, there are no salon services offered at the Grand Canyon.

Mary Lois Brown’s love for the Grand Canyon, mules and the life of a wrangler comes out in her artwork. Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

Upon transferring from her job as a wrangler to the salon, Brown admits that it was hard. “I didn’t realize how much my life revolved around my riders,” she said. “I would get

hundreds of letters [and] photographs every day from all over the world. Three days after I ended my wrangler job, I went to the post office and my mailbox was empty.”

As a child, Brown enjoyed drawing and painting horses. “I’ve always enjoyed the creative process,” she said. In 1997, she enrolled in a class

Continued on page 27

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Flagstaff Business News // JANUARY 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Finding County Economic Development Resources

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By Chris Pasterz

anuary brings new options to businesses and employees, albeit some for a limited time only. Coconino County’s dedicated staff continues to guide and assist business owners, employees and all residents to access resources as they become available. This article targets the resources that are most asked about, and often the most complex and ever-changing: forgivable business loans, the eviction moratorium, Unemployment Insurance and the COVID-19 vaccine. Please take a few moments to familiarize yourself with some of the websites listed, as they are comprehensive and continually updated with information specifically for Coconino County residents. Banks have begun to attract inquiries from applicants for the second round of PPP Loans (Paycheck Protection Program), which are largely forgivable. The forgivable expense categories have been expanded to now include group insurance payments, cloud computing expenses, damaged property repair expenses and personal protective equipment for employees. And, tax deductions on PPP-funded expenses

have been redefined. The forgiveness applications of these loans have been simplified, and businesses under 300 employees are eligible to take out a second (or first) PPP loan. Federal guidance for these PPP loans is being determined this month. Informational webinars are being held by the Coconino Small Business Development Center and Coconino County Economic Development office to inform businesses on: what exactly is a PPP loan, how to apply, what expenses qualify for forgiveness and how to apply for forgiveness. The first interactive session is scheduled for 2 p.m., Jan. 12. Register for this free webinar at: https://clients.azsbdc.net/ workshop.aspx?ekey=110400106. A one-month extension has been given to the renter eviction moratorium, which was originally set to expire Dec. 31, 2020, but now is in place through Jan. 31, 2021. Those seeking assistance with utility, rent or mortgage payments are strongly encouraged to visit: https://www.coconino. az.gov/2370/Food-Housing-and-Other-Resources/ where they can find applications for help, supportive housing services such as legal assistance and money-saving programs. It is important to remember that

while renter moratoriums may stave off evictions for a short while, rent payments (past and future) are still due. Multiple professional organizations are assisting landlords and tenants with workable solutions to ensure that payments are made, and evictions and costly legal judgments are avoided.

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Extensions to Unemployment Insurance and the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (including for contract and gig workers) have been made for an additional 11 weeks. Increased payments to the weekly benefits of an additional $300 will expire in early March 2021, and this may help ease the financial burden for some. Those employees who have multiple jobs may also be eligible for a weekly boost of $100 through Unemployment Insurance. In order to know your eligibility, you need to apply, and you can find out how here: https://www.coconino. az.gov/2318/COVID-19-Employee-Related-Items. Knowing what you need to apply beforehand is important, as online portals are near capacity and calling the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) is difficult, as phone lines are over capacity. Taking 20 minutes to

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get your documents and information in order before you apply will save hours in frustration and time. Staying informed about what is happening locally with regard to the COVID-19 vaccine is easiest when you get it directly from the source. The Coconino County Health and Human Services Department is receiving vaccine doses and distributing them as available using the prescribed distribution plan. You can find the most direct and latest information

at coconino.az.gov/covid19vaccine. Please consider contacting me directly, as a few moments on the phone can often uncover multiple opportunities when your individual or business situation is considered. FBN Chris Pasterz is the economic development manager for Coconino County. Contact him: cpasterz@coconino.az.gov or 928-679-7134.

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JANUARY 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

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Treating Chronic Foot Pain with Regenerative Medicine

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By Reisha Zang

hronic foot or ankle pain interferes with active lifestyles, limiting mobility and independence. No matter your age, it makes even the most basic activities, like going to the market or taking an after-dinner stroll, difficult. “I hate to hear that foot pain is preventing someone from participating in everyday activities,” said Dr. Kerry Zang, podiatric medical director of Comprehensive Integrated Care, Foot and Ankle. “It doesn’t matter if you are suffering from arthritis, an old injury, Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis or heel pain, there are new therapies [referred to as regenerative medicine] that are able to repair and restore tissue, ligaments and joints. This also can apply to continued pain after surgical care.” Until recently, anti-inflammatory medication and steroid injections, like cortisone, offered the best chance for relief. But, these options just reduced the symptoms. They did nothing to treat the problem actually causing the pain. “While cortisone stops the swelling and pain, it can

also interfere with the healing process and further degeneration can occur,” explained Zang. “Now, instead of just making the symptoms go away, we can deal with the underlying problem that is causing the pain. With regenerative medicine, we can help the body initiate its own healing response,” explained Zang. “The goal is to encourage a healing process where the body replaces, repairs, reprograms and renews diseased or injured cells. As new and healthy tissue forms, it helps improve function and resolve pain.” Regenerative injection therapy (RIT) uses amniotic-derived fluid, also called growth factor injections, to treat chronic pain caused by arthritis, injured ligaments, tendons and joints. It may also be helpful in reducing the discomfort of neuropathy. These injections stimulate the body’s own natural healing process to repair chronically damaged tissue. “When tissues are injured, the body responds naturally with inflammation and swelling. This is the body’s way of repairing itself,” continued Zang. RIT works in conjunc-

tion with the body’s natural ability to heal. Adding growth factors jumpstarts and maintains regeneration of new tissues, which help strengthen and repair damaged areas. “We’re adding neutral growth factors, which receive signals as to what kind of tissue to repair. Then, native growth factors and stem cells are attracted to the area to accelerate the regenerative process,” said Zang. As we age, the regenerative process slows down. “If a degenerative process has started, sometimes the body needs a little boost to encourage the regenerative process,” she said. “Think of it like a boat with a hole in it. Water coming in represents the degenerative process, and bailing it out represents the regenerative process. When pain continues, it’s because there’s more water coming in than going out. When we supply growth factors, it’s like replacing a tablespoon with a bucket to bail the water out faster, so the hole can be repaired.” A recent patient of Dr. Zang’s has seen wonderful results from his RIT treatments. The patient had been suffering from ankle pain since an injury

caused him to have heel surgery three years ago. Cortisone injections, physical therapy and pain medications did not help, and he had been wearing a brace regularly because his ankle was unstable and painful. “Additional surgery wasn’t an option for this gentleman because while it may have addressed his ankle problem, I believe it would have just transferred the pain further up his leg, and most likely affected his knee,” explained Zang. “I felt his best option was a growth factor injection because it offered the potential for significant relief.” Zang recognized that the patient was skeptical, and explained, “I’ve seen excellent results with ongoing pain after prior surgeries, and believed he had on opportunity to benefit as well. I advised him it would take a bit of time to work, but it may offer the relief he needed.” A few months after the injection, the patient noticed the pain was nearly gone. Then, a few weeks ago, he realized, “I [haven’t] noticed any pain…this is an unbelievable outcome so far, and I thought this could never happen. The shot works!”

Dr. Zang encourages those living with chronic foot or ankle pain to look into regenerative medicine. “Don’t wait to get help. The earlier you see a doctor, the sooner treatment can begin, increasing the potential for a successful outcome. Delaying care can put you at risk for further damage,” said Zang. “However, if you have put off treatment, don’t think it’s too late. I think the most important thing to keep in mind is that medicine is constantly changing and you should never lose hope.” FBN Reisha Zang is director of patient education at CIC Foot and Ankle. She can be reached at 480-860-6455 or reisha.zang@ciccenters.com.

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Flagstaff Business News // JANUARY 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Massage Therapy Does Wonders

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By Mark Love

f you’ve ever experienced ongoing pain, numbness or tingling in your wrists or hands, you might have a condition known as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passage about the width of the thumb that runs from the forearm to the palm of the hand via the wrist and houses nine tendons and one median nerve. When the tunnel becomes inflamed, the result is chronic pain.

WHAT IS CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, or CTS, is caused by the compression of the median nerve encased inside the carpal tunnel, which then leads to inflammation (swelling) in and around the tunnel, pain and numbness. CTS can be caused by a variety of situations, with the most common being repetitive use of the hands and wrist, such as typing for long periods of time or other tasks that result from overuse of the tendons, ligaments and muscles in the forearm, wrist and hands. Other physical conditions that can cause the

median nerve to get pinched in the tunnel might be swelling in the area caused by a wrist fracture or being overweight; autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis; thyroid problems; menopause or pregnancy; and chronic diseases such as diabetes. CTS can also be caused when the median nerve is entrapped or pinched in another location above or below the wrist area. Most often, those who suffer from CTS experience symptoms on the thumb side of the palm, including a pins-and-needles feeling or numbness that extends to the thumb and first two fingers. Generally, CTS only affects the dominant hand, which makes movement especially awkward. People sometimes will flap their hands in an attempt to find relief, but if the symptoms worsen, that technique becomes less effective.

WHAT CAN HELP RELIEVE THE PAIN?

Taking more frequent breaks when using your wrist or applying cold compresses to help reduce swelling in the area can really help relieve the pain. CTS sufferers who have only

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mild to moderate pain and symptoms for less than a year can often find relief through conservative treatments such as splinting or wrist braces and inflammation-reducing medications such as ibuprofen or steroid injections. For more severe, long-term CTS suffers, surgery may be the final option.

MASSAGE THERAPY BRINGS LONG-TERM RELIEF AND HEALING

Massage can significantly improve, heal and prevent CTS by increasing blood flow and circulation in the area and throughout the body, which in turn helps reduce inflammation in and around the carpal tunnel, decreases fluid retention and soothes the irritated or painful muscles and tendons in the carpal tunnel. But the benefits of massage therapy for CTS actually go much deeper. Carpal tunnel massage focuses on both the flexor (curl in) and extensor (reach out) muscles in the arm, wrist and hand. A massage therapist uses long strokes going up the flexor muscles on the forearm to loosen the connective tissue (fascia), muscles,

tendons and ligaments surrounding the tunnel. This provides instant and ongoing relief to the compressed nerve that is radiating the pain. The therapist also stretches the forearm flexors by extending the hand, wrist, fingers and elbow, while massaging the entire arm with long, gliding strokes at the same time. A study by the Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami School of Medicine showed that regular massage therapy can improve grip strength. Strengthening the muscles can help reduce muscle imbalances that are caused by repetitive strain or overuse, which, of course, lead to CTS. Strength-building exercises of the extensor muscles of the fingers and elbow are recommended daily and as part of a massage session.

HOT STONE THERAPY

In addition, the researchers discovered that people with pain from CTS, arthritis, fibromyalgia and other hand problems experience less pain and even sleep better as a result of hot stone therapy as part of a massage session. Why?

Because muscles relax more under the direct heat of stones, which allows the therapist to reach deeper layers of muscle. Hot stones also expand blood vessels, encouraging blood flow not only in the hands but throughout the entire body. The relief of chronic pain is enhanced by reduced stress and deep relaxation, which provides for better health overall. Hot stone therapy can be added into a standard massage session at Massage Envy. Both the 60- and 90-minute sessions offer immediate benefits for CTS, as well as the overall health benefits associated with massage. FBN Mark Love is the Franchisee of Massage Envy Spa Flagstaff, located at 1235 S. Plaza Way in the University Plaza Shopping Center next to Safeway. For more information on the benefits of massage and to schedule an appointment with a massage therapist, visit MassageEnvy.com or call 928526-ENVY (3689) and follow on Facebook at Facebook.com/ MEFlag. Schedule an appointment online – your time, your convenience, your massage.

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JANUARY 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

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23

Preparing for an Active New Year in Real Estate

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By Paula Mack

lagstaff’s real estate future is forecast to be as vibrant as 2020, if not more so, in 2021 and

2022. According to Dr. Lawrence Yun, chief economist and senior vice president of research with the National Association of Realtors, of the Top 10 prospective markets in post-COVID 2021 and 2022, Phoenix tops the list, with a whopping 10% increase in population for 2021.

Close behind are Austin, Charlotte, Atlanta, Houston, Denver and Nashville. Dr. Yun also notes that nationally in 2020, our unemployment was 6.9%, and predicts a reduction of that rate to 6.2 and 5.0 in 2021 and 2022, respectively. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth was actually negative, at -2.7% in 2020, but a 3.5% increase in GDP is expected in 2021. Although 30-year fixed mortgage rates of 2.83% are expected to go up, that rise in 2021 and 2022 should be a gentle uptick to 3% in 2021 and

// Listen to your trusted realtor regarding competitive pricing of your home. Remember that most buyers, even those who can afford to pay cash, will get a loan because the rates are so low. In most instances, lenders require home appraisals. If you price your property at an inflated price, your property may not appraise for value, and the buyer may cancel the contract. When you do list, you may receive multiple offers for your property if it’s competitively priced in a desirable area and in good order. //

3.25% in 2022. In Flagstaff, real estate inventory continues to be very low. More buyers and not enough homes for sale perpetuates our seller’s market. If you are a seller, here are some points to consider: Listen to your trusted realtor regarding competitive pricing of your home. Remember that most buyers, even those who can afford to pay cash, will get a loan because the rates are so low. In most instances, lenders require home appraisals. If you price your property at an inflated price, your property may not appraise for value, and the buyer may cancel the contract. When you do list, you may receive multiple offers for your property if it’s competitively priced in a desirable area and in good order. Ask your realtor to give his or her opinion of the offers. Your realtor may know the buyer’s lender or call the buyer’s agent to learn more about your potential for a successful close, in order to help you make the best decision for you. If all goes well, you could have a great contract with a well-qualified buyer and a backup offer in the wings. If you are a buyer, why not do some prep work to improve your odds in this competitive market

while you are waiting for your perfect house to hit the MLS? Consider asking your local lender for not only a prequalification letter, but also a preapproval letter. A prequalification letter is a statement from your lender, who has checked your credit score and believes you can probably get a loan with his or her mortgage company. A preapproval goes one step further in that financial information has been submitted and verified by your lender. Now may be a good time to prepare yourself to consider an offer over the listing price to get the seller’s acceptance of your offer. For example, if your price range is up to $650,000, ask your lender to plot out your projected increase in monthly mortgage payments if you need and want to go higher to get an accepted contract. This way you can comfortably make the best possible offer by knowing in advance, versus blindly offering in the heat of the moment after you see “The House.” Imagine, at last, you see that perfect house on the MLS. You view the house with your realtor the same day and you want to write an offer. Your realtor likely will call the list agent representing the seller and ask what terms and clos-

ing date would make your offer most competitive and also find out if the seller has received offers and when they plan to respond to offers. Work with your lender and realtor team to consider escalation clauses of the purchase price or even appraisal waivers. In a typical market, these options don’t see the light of day, but as you all know, these are not typical times. Get the best information you can from your team and act decisively. Happy New Year to us all! FBN

Paula Mack is a long-time Flagstaff resident and sales agent with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. She can be reached at paula.mack@russlyon.com or 928-699-6837.

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Flagstaff Business News // JANUARY 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com

What Kind of 2021 Reset Do You Need?

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By Amber Belt, ND

ost of us were more than ready to show 2020 the door and cross our fingers that 2021 will be better. It’s time to reset, but where do you start? For most of my patients, family and friends, the most useful resets need to happen in three areas. These areas are diet, stress and exercise. The pandemic has really shined a spotlight on all three of these areas and many, many people are struggling! One action I have taken to help people at a low cost is to offer group coaching programs that address these three areas so that people can reset. Today, I want to focus a bit on how I approach a diet reset with my “Cut the Crap in 21 Days” program members. I hope this information helps you hit your own diet reset button!

WHAT ARE YOU EATING?

N EW

What I have seen is that people can really, really lose track of the food they are consuming. It is very easy to overeat, especially if you are stress eating. Who hasn’t started to eat a bag of chips or cookies and then, all of a sudden, realized they are finishing that bag off? I’m pretty sure this is

something that has happened to a lot of us when we are stressed! It is also hard to know what foods may be impacting your health in ways you don’t want. There are foods that could be making your eczema, joint pain, asthma, migraines or other symptoms worse. But have you taken the time to identify what these foods are? Doing some dietary tracking can really help bring awareness to how much you’re eating, what you’re eating and what you need to eat (or not!) to improve your health. Often, the act of tracking your diet will lead you to make different choices because you feel more accountable for the food you are putting in your mouth.

This can lead you to make healthier choices right off the bat!

WHAT NEEDS TO BE REPLACED?

Once there is more awareness around what foods are being eaten, we can start to identify what foods need to be removed from the diet and what we can add in place of the foods we’re removing. Does dairy make your gout flare? (It totally happens to a patient of mine!) Do those crackers you love make your blood sugar go through the roof and cause you to crash later? It can be very beneficial to know what foods aren’t great for your health as an individual. Then, we can work to find alternative choices for

// Doing some dietary tracking can really help bring awareness to how much you’re eating, what you’re eating and what you need to eat (or not!) to improve your health. Often, the act of tracking your diet will lead you to make different choices because you feel more accountable for the food you are putting in your mouth. //

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those foods that are causing negative health effects. And, breaking out of old patterns with new foods can be a lot less difficult when you know what you need to substitute and how to do it.

SETTING YOURSELF UP FOR SUCCESS

Being successful with dietary changes can happen in many different ways, but self-sabotage can happen, too. Obviously, not having the foods in your house that don’t serve your health is a way to set yourself up for success. But, really, having a plan for your weekly meals as well as dedicating some time to meal preparation can make a healthy diet a lot more attainable. It takes a little dedication and practice to dial in a diet that stays in the healthy zone, but you will feel so much better if you do it.

DEPRIVATION IS FOR THE BIRDS I really don’t like focusing on what foods need to be taken out of someone’s diet. Well, if we’re talking about food substitutions, I’ll talk about it a lot. But I’d much rather focus on the positive! Like, what about all the foods that you haven’t been

eating that you can add into your diet to serve your health? Seriously, the options of what you CAN eat as part of a healthy diet are endless. I love introducing people to new foods and, also, to foods that they thought they hated as a kid. Don’t like Brussels sprouts? Maybe you just haven’t had them cooked in a way that is pleasing to your palate! And there is absolutely no reason why you can’t incorporate at least some of your favorite treats into your diet. It’s all about balance. And the longer you keep up healthy diet habits, the less appealing some of those treats become. I hope that these tips help you if you’re looking to reset your diet. And if you need more help, look for my “Cut the Crap in 21 Days!” diet reset program that will start in mid-January. Happy New Year! FBN Amber Belt, N.D. is a naturopathic physician with sharp regenerative injection skills, a roller derby enthusiast, a business owner, an animal lover and a Flagstaff devotee. She has been performing regenerative injections for 12 years and can be contacted via aspenmedcenter.com or at 928-213-5828.

JANUARY 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

25

Building a Resilient Community

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By Virginia Watahomigie

he Coconino Coalition for Children and Youth (CCC&Y) ignites collective action that creates better lives for children and families. As we transition from a difficult year, we are hoping more than ever that our community will come together. Childhood trauma or Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) can have a large impact on the future health of individuals, and Arizona ranks higher than the national average for ACE exposure. In fact, according to the Arizona ACE Consortium, “It is estimated that nearly 70,000 children in Arizona have more than five

ACEs.” As ACE exposure goes up, the risk for negative outcomes such as substance abuse also goes up. For example, the rate of alcohol abuse jumps from a one in 69 chance to a one in six chance for individuals who have experienced seven or more Adverse Childhood Experiences. The rate of intravenous (IV) drug use is even more startling, going from a one in 480 chance to one in 30. Thus, the effects of these ACEs sometimes play out in our justice system, in our hospitals and in our shelters. The costs of childhood trauma, both to the individual and to society, are high. It is important for us to understand that our community

// Childhood trauma or Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) can have a large impact on the future health of individuals, and Arizona ranks higher than the national average for ACE exposure. In fact, according to the Arizona ACE Consortium, “It is estimated that nearly 70,000 children in Arizona have more than five ACEs.” //

experiences trauma through abuse, historical injustices, and current inequities so that we can mobilize to address these issues. Fortunately, there is so much that can be done. Why is it that two people who have had similar difficult experiences in childhood have different outcomes in adulthood? When trauma is well understood, systems of discipline are geared toward learning and developing self-regulation skills, instead of punishment. Further, practices that create safety and trust (a biological necessity) are built into programs such as education, after-school programming and neighborhood interactions. Picture a child taking a mindful moment of breathing to calm his or her nervous system instead of a situation escalated with punishment and anger caused by an ostracizing adult response. Additionally, when we understand the role that protective factors play in healthy child development, we are compelled to do more. Examples of protective factors include: caring adult relationships; an individual’s sense of purpose and self-worth; compassionate communities; and, a positive connection to school. How often do we catch children being good, celebrate incremental milestones or think of a strong relationship as a behavior

management strategy? When it comes to systemic justice and equity issues, child abuse, substance misuse or a host of other physical and mental health concerns, the needs of our community can seem overwhelming. These are complex issues. However, when we bring it back into our local communities with neighbors, friends and family, action steps feel much more doable. Here are some ideas that can make a difference: Be aware of your friends, neighbors and your children’s friends. Concerned community members are the ones who provide the strength and support that help pull struggling families through difficult times. Offering to babysit or providing a meal strengthens families in ways that you may never know. Child abuse often happens because of a stressor, and this is where kind community members make a huge difference. Become educated and aware. Attend our live or recorded webinars on a range of topics and from many different experts in the field. You might even choose to become a member of the Coalition in support of our mission or receive updates through our newsletter to stay informed. We are eliminating childhood

trauma and inequity by building an inclusive movement of people dedicated to transforming and healing our communities. Through leadership, education and advocacy, we are reconnecting children and families to the greater community and their own potential. Visit coconinokids.org to learn more. Reach out to local non-profits that are doing work you believe in and ask how you can get involved. Our community is rich with our partner organizations that are doing important and meaningful work. The Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth imagines a world where every person lives in peace and is supported by a thriving, resilient community. Let us remember that we never really know the story of what has happened to our neighbor. The more goodness we are contributing daily, the better for us all. FBN Virginia Watahomigie is the executive director of the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth located at 2625 N. King St., in Flagstaff. She can be reached at virginia@ coconinokids.org.

Community Health Grant Seeking Letters of Intent

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orthern Arizona Healthcare Foundation is soliciting interest in its 2021 Northern Arizona Community Health Grant Cycle, which looks to fund initiatives with innovation and sustainable impact. Letters of intent are required before grant applications and must be submitted by Jan. 15. The Foundation seeks to invest in new initiatives that will have a lasting impact on community health. Programs and projects should involve one or more of these priorities: advancing health care access, improving behavioral health, and/or mitigating chronic health conditions. To submit a letter of intent, go to azfoundation.org/Grants-Loans/Current-Grant-Opportunities. “For the fifth year in a row, Northern Arizona Healthcare Foundation looks forward to rewarding non-profit initiatives that have the greatest potential to enhance health in our communities,” said president and CEO Rick Smith. Since its inception in 2016, Northern Arizona Healthcare Foundation has invested more than $15.7 million in improving health in Northern Arizona communities. These efforts have reached hundreds of thousands of people across the region, from Colorado City to the Verde Valley and the Navajo Nation to Lake Havasu City. Foundation grants have supported more than 100 community non-profits and departments within the non-profit Northern Arizona Healthcare system. For additional information on the grant cycle, visit nahealthfoundation.org/foundation-awards. FBN

Dutch Bros Raises Funds for Flagstaff Food Center

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utch Bros Flagstaff has partnered with customers to raise $2,711 for the Flagstaff Family Food Center. Proceeds from sales on Tuesday, Dec. 8 were donated to the organization in support of its mission. Flagstaff Family Food Center serves hot meals, provides children’s literacy programs and distributes emergency food boxes to food insecure neighbors. Last year, Flagstaff Family Food Center served more than 63,000 people daily hot meals and more than 89,000 individuals were served through the Emergency Food Box Program. “We’re so grateful for all of the customers who came out and supported families in our community,” said Sam Sanchez, operator of Dutch Bros Flagstaff. “We’re so honored to donate to such an amazing organization.” FBN

Igniting Collective Action Creating better lives for children & families

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we’ve been working to create a world where every person lives in peace and is supported by a thriving, resilient community.

You can make a difference for our communities by becoming a member of the Coalition. As a member, you’ll be a part of the ongoing movement to eliminate childhood trauma and inequity. You can also make an impact by sharing information with your community, attending events, and even sitting on a Coalition committee.

What We Do We are eliminating childhood trauma and inequity by building an inclusive movement of people dedicated to transforming and healing our communities.

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Flagstaff Business News // JANUARY 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Service to Others Can Contribute to a Lifetime of Happiness By Natalie Randolph, DBH, LCSW

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eople across the world engage in altruistic behaviors, ranging from paying for a cup of coffee for a stranger, donating gently used clothing, toys or household items, or volunteering at a local food bank. Engagement in service to others occurs without the expectation of anything in return. However, the benefits of altruistic behaviors have well-documented positive benefits to the individual in the helper role. For example, studies have shown that youth that engage in acts of volunteerism developed better values, achieved academic improvement and experienced lower rates of discipline problems. Similarly, adults that participate in volunteering activities have reported greater satisfaction in their life, decreased anxiety and depression symptoms, and better overall functioning in social settings. Additional benefits of being of service to others include creating a sense of connection to others. This connection can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. Feelings of empowerment can help solidify a sense of purpose and contribute to a positive self-identity, which are other secondary outcomes of volunteerism. As so many

individuals, families and communities are struggling right now, volunteering can help put things into perspective when helping those who are less fortunate. Individuals who engage in volunteering become more positive in their overall demeanor and optimistic in their outlook on life. Through the act of helping others, stress is reduced, which produces positive physical and mental health outcomes; this has been linked to longer life expectancy rates. Volunteerism is contagious; seeing random acts of kindness produces more generosity toward others. The value of service toward others also is encouraged through self-help programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous. The foundation of Alcoholics Anonymous was built on the premise of prosocial behavior. The Alcoholics Anonymous text reviews the philosophy of the AA program and outlines the 12 steps of the recovery process. Within the preamble of AA, the primary purpose is to maintain sobriety, while helping others achieve sobriety. AA literature identifies that self-centeredness, the opposite trait of service, is the primary problem of alcoholics: “Above everything, we alcoholics must be rid of this selfishness. We must, or it kills us.”

Service to others is ingrained in the practice of AA, as the benefits are well documented. Studies have demonstrated that being a sponsor increases the length of sobriety in an alcoholic. Individuals who sponsor others or have worked the 12 Steps while in treatment have proven to be two times as likely to maintain sobriety in the year after completing treatment. Back2Basics incorporates the principles of the 12 Steps into its treatment approach to support addicts in their journey to recovery. Back2Basics is a nationally accredited and licensed addiction and recovery outdoor adventure program. Back2Basics incorporates five core program competencies, including counseling, outdoor adventure, culinary and exercise programming, as well as education and life skills opportunities. Service activities are considered learning opportunities, which allow residents to feel accomplished, while producing a renewed sense of self through volunteering within Northern Arizona. Providing service to others in any capacity offers short- and long-term benefits. Be an agent of change and give back to the individuals and families within your community; this will inspire others to mirror your actions.

WINNER

Young men practice skills like teamwork and responsibility in outings like river trips. Offering service to the community also is an important aspect of the program. Courtesy photo

Back2Basics is a Joint Commission nationally accredited treatment center offering up to six months of daily programming, licensed here in Arizona. Back2Basics Outdoor Adventure Recovery combines residential therapeutic counseling with experiential outdoor adventures to treat individuals with substance and alcohol addiction and lead them through rehab and recovery into long-term sober living. The program is highlighted by spending

time in the beautiful, serene wilderness where individuals are physically challenged, their minds are cleared and they learn ways to defeat old addictive thinking patterns through various outdoor adventures. Back2Basics is now accepting most medical insurance. FBN For more information, visit back2basicsoutdooradventures.com, call 928-8142220 or email rduprez@b2badventures. com.

JANUARY 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews LOIS BROWN continued from page 19

APRICUS continued from page 6

Rarely far from the Grand Canyon, Mary Lois Brown now lives in Sedona as an artist. Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

taught by Tom Darro at the Scottsdale Art School, which, she says, brought her back to painting with oils. “My favorite medium.” Now living in Sedona, Brown is a full-time artist painting her beautiful surroundings and of course, the Grand Canyon. One of her recent paintings is of Grand Canyon Wrangler Maggie Kwiatkowski. “Mary Lois is a wonderful lady,” said Kwiatkowski. “She’s very interesting and has lots of cool stories. I was honored to have her use my photo to paint. Her work is beautiful and I love her interpretation of the mules and the Grand Canyon. With her working here for so long, you can definitely tell that her love of the canyon leaks into the paintings.” Brown also volunteered with the Grand Canyon National Park Service as a cook for river trips. And she worked for private river running companies, as well. “I loved the mules, but it’s the Colorado River that drew me to the Grand Canyon.” “Mary Lois has become a great friend to all of us,” said Grand Canyon resident Jack Rinaldi. “When we first met her last year, she had a chance to spend some time with the current group of mostly female wranglers. I think it brought her back to her early days of wrangling.” Brown is married to Doug Brown, who she met at the Grand Canyon when he was working for the National Park Service as an environmental compliance officer. He is now retired. Focusing on scenic oils, pet portraits and commissions, Brown’s paintings can be viewed at brightangel@q.com. She can be reached at 928-282-1439.

WHO I ADMIRE:

“Eric Rhoads. He is a marketing expert, a career entrepreneur and publisher of art magazines and videos and more. He is continually reaching out to others with encouragement and inspiring thousands of people in the world of making

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art. Since COVID started, he has shared encouragement and art instruction in over 200 live broadcasts through his company, Streamline Publishing.”

MY SUPERPOWER IS:

“God. God guided my footsteps from Pennsylvania to Grand Canyon.”

ADVICE TO YOUNG PEOPLE STARTING A BUSINESS:

“Make sure your business is good, honorable and go for it with all your might. Address your shortcomings and trust God for direction. You might have to change directions along the way, but don’t have failure in your vocabulary. Learn marketing skills and get educated about what your business is going to be. Ask for advice but make your own decisions.”

MY PERFECT DAY:

“My perfect day would be sitting on the rim of Grand Canyon on a sunny day either daydreaming or watching the clouds go by and staying until sunset.”

IF I COULD HAVE LUNCH WITH ANYONE:

“It would be John Ringling. He and one of his brothers were the founders of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus that spread joy to much of the world for children and adults for many years even after his death. He had a huge mansion and an amazing art museum [in Florida], which started from his private collection as early as 1925. I would love to pick his brain and see how his big heart actually worked from art appreciation to creating what many have called ‘The Greatest Show on Earth.’” FBN

Anand, who said he has known Dr. Andrew Martin for a few years and has known of the Flagstaff Family Care practice for some time. Reaching out into the northern part of the state, including into Yavapai County, has been facilitated through the partnership with Flagstaff Family Care, whose Sedona office is open full-time, with a new doctor Erba Carskadden, D.O., starting this month. Dr. Mary Porvaznik is the primary provider in Sedona. She divides her time between the Sedona and Flagstaff offices. Michele Peters, FNP, works full-time in the Sedona office as well. An integrated behavioral health service is also provided at FFC, offering counseling to promote well-being with Janine Cwiklinski, M.A., LPC NCC. Anand says a major Apricus Health Network goal for 2021 includes continuing the creation of an expanded presence in Prescott and Prescott Valley. The new year will also see more mini-clinics of Apricus teams being set up inside pre-existing clinics in Northern Arizona. “Next year is going to a big growth year for us,” said Anand in December. “Overall, our goal is to be able to provide health care in all of Arizona.” Vital to the statewide Apricus vision are around-theclock health support systems such as telehealth, telemedicine and Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM). Anand has championed the importance of technology and the need for 24/7 access to care in the state for more than four years.

“If a patient needs immediate medical help, options are limited under traditional scenarios,” he said. “This inspired our idea to shift to an approach that includes in-person care that is supplemented by telehealth and connected care technologies. In doing so, we’re able to treat patients in minutes, rather than days or weeks.” The technology used is said to be user-friendly and eliminates software downloads for patients. Doctors say the Apricus healthcare model uses real-time analytics that allow patients access to health records anytime, anywhere, using any device, which gives the entire care team a unified view of a patient’s treatment plan and aids in making data-driven decisions. Apricus also offers patients free home delivery of medications, many of which are offered at substantial discounts. Another feature of the Apricus model is the concept of personal care navigators. “All Apricus Health members are assigned their own personal care navigator who can help them understand today’s complex healthcare system, assist them in receiving the right care and get them in touch with the medical professionals who can answer their questions. From there, it’s as simple as scheduling an appointment, which the care navigators can support with primary care or specialist physicians who are part of the network.” By growing the provider network, the Apricus system is positioned to keep up with population growth and meet increasing healthcare needs in the future. FBN

CCC continued from page 3

opportunity, for all parties involved, we can now offer local, hands-on, professional, state-of-the-art training and allows the next generation of talent to fully understand the ins and outs of a dealership automotive operation.” Lundie added that Robby Findlay, the owner, was adamant about getting the program off the ground – even with the uncertainty of the pandemic. “Training the students locally, we would hope they continue into a career that would pay a good living wage, so they can afford to live in Flagstaff,” Lundie said. “We’re excited to have it right here at the dealership.” Lundie added that the opportunity to partner with CCC was easy. “We have the facility, and we need more skilled technicians in our local community,” Lundie said. “We are happy to fill the gap with the limited funding to get this program going.”

Myers said that in addition to the Findlay Honda support, the program also has been supported by $10,000 in funding from a grant from the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act. The funds will allow CCC to purchase the tools required for the students. The program’s first semester will begin with a certification as Level 1 technicians, and all credits can be applied to any future plans for an associate degree. Plans are in the works for Level 2 and above certifications as well. The classes will be held 6-9:30 p.m., Tuesday nights. For more information about the new Automotive Technician program at CCC, contact Ken Myers at Kenneth. myers@coconino.edu. FBN

OFFICE SPACE continued from page 11

prevent the space from being vacant for a period of time.” Without a crystal ball, Sederstrom suggests tenants move forward optimistically and cautiously, aware of the sustainability of their office environment, with a firm understanding of their lease agreements, relationships and opportunities. FBN

out. “Some businesses won’t survive and some workers will continue working from home. We can expect there will be a number of foreclosures on commercial office buildings. But, I believe, as social animals, people won’t want to stay in their houses forever and will miss the business environment. That said, I predict we’ll experience office space stagnation until spring 2021. Substantial recovery may not be until 2022 or 2023.” However, Sederstrom says, if you like your building, it’s a good time to renew a lease because you may be able to reduce your rent. “The lease rate commonly increases every year. But, in times when the market shifts, you may want to consider giving your landlord a proposal to renew early for the same or a discounted rate. This will save the landlord money that he’d have to spend to find a new tenant and

Larry Hendricks is the senior manager of public relations and marketing at CCC.

Bo Sederstrom is senior vice president at Citywide Commercial Real Estate and a 30-year commercial real estate professional who has been involved in transactions ranging from 1,000 to 200,000 square feet, most recently including negotiations for an almost $50 million life science lease. He believes that to properly represent a tenant or landlord, you need to understand what motivates both. Sederstrom is past chair of the Recovery Empowerment Network board of directors and a member of CORE real estate network. He can be reached at bo@citywidecre. com or 602-330-1917.

Minimum Wage Increases in Flagstaff

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eginning with the first day of the year, the hourly minimum wage in the city of Flagstaff increased to $15 per hour. This increase is in accordance with Proposition 414, which was passed by voters in the Nov. 2016 election and amended by the Flagstaff City Council March of 2017. For employees who receive tips or gratuities, an employer may pay tipped employees up to $3 per hour less than the

city of Flagstaff’s hourly minimum wage for 2021, providing the tipped employee earns at least the hourly minimum wage for all hours worked for each workweek, including all tips, and is informed in writing by his or her employer of the tip-credit provisions. For more information, the Office of Labor Standards can be reached at 928-213-2071. FBN

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Flagstaff Business News // JANUARY 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com

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JANUARY 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews COVID continued from page 1

Moments later, Dr. Kristina Kezar, M.D., from Verde Valley Medical Center, received her first dose. “This is a great way to end the year,” she said with damp eyes. “What a Christmas gift for me and the safety of my family and the community. I’m ecstatic. I’m honored.” NACA Marketing and PR Officer Victoria Taylor, who says she experienced chills, body aches, lethargy and “a very sore arm” with the first round, was scheduled to receive the second dose in early January. “I 100% believe it is worth a couple of days of the side effects for the protective and preventative measures this vaccine offers us,” she said. The vaccination arrived in Central and Northern Arizona as hospital officials around the state continued to juggle capacity and staffing issues. At Yavapai Regional Medical Center, numbers of patients in dedicated COVID-19 units continued to rise at both campuses. YRMC spokesperson Kenneth Boush said hospital staff members are “exhausted” and have had to adapt daily to meet the ongoing demand of treatment. In late December, YRMC-Prescott was at 105% capacity; the Prescott Valley location was at 112%. There were 10 total COVID units between the two hospitals by Dec. 23. “We are in historical territory here,” Boush said. “We’ve never seen this kind of patient flow come through our hospitals.” Normally, both hospitals are set up to care for about 185 patients total. The hospital staff has repurposed units to add more beds. Many staff members have worked overtime for the past 10 months to help meet the demand of care. However, the arrival of the vaccines has created noticeable optimism among healthcare workers. Dr. Mougin said the Moderna vaccine is a messenger RNA vaccine. “It’s not actually virus. It is a vaccine that induces cells in your body to produce a protein called the spike protein. Your body then recognizes the spike protein as something that’s not supposed to be there and creates an immune reaction against that. Then, if you are exposed to the virus in the future, your body will recognize that quickly as being something it needs to get rid of and that creates the immunity.” Health officials say the Moderna vaccine is easier to store and has a longer shelf-life than the Pfizer vac-

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CCC&Y continued from page 12

Dr. Kristina Kezar, M.D., said she was smiling under her mask and teary-eyed with joy as she received the first vaccination in Cottonwood at Verde Valley Medical Center days before Christmas. Administering the shot is Critical Care Nurse Laura Macel, R.N.​ Media representatives witnessed the rollout of the vaccination through a Zoom call. Courtesy Photo by Sean Openshaw

Dr. George Hershey, D.O., received the first dose of the Pfizer vaccine at the NACA Family Health Center as Verity Quiroz, R.N., administered the shot. Courtesy photo

cine. According to science research, both require two doses that need to be administered about a month apart to ensure full vaccination. The Arizona Department of Health will be informed each week of how many doses to expect. It will allot those, by county, based on the percentage of residents in a priority group. Distribution information will be reported back to the CDC. The national COVID vaccine rollout has been slower than expected. Earlier goals set by Operation Warp Speed projected that 20 million people would have received their first dose by the end of 2020. In early January, however, the CDC reported only about 4.6 million people in the United States had received the injection. In Arizona, 411,025 doses of vaccine had arrived by early January. About 91,000 Arizonans have been vaccinated, which is just 22% of the supply. Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s leading infectious disease specialist,

has called the rollout disappointing. He told ABC’s “This Week” Co-anchor Martha Raddatz that a sense of “normality” could occur by fall if the vaccination program is speeded up. Despite busy hospitals in Arizona, healthcare professionals say they don’t want to discourage anyone with COVID-19 symptoms from seeking medical treatment. “Anyone in need of care, especially emergency care, should not hesitate to seek the care they need,” said Boush. Meanwhile, health officials stress the continued importance of hand washing, masks and social distancing. “The hospital is still able to take patients, but we are asking the community for help,” said Mougin. “We need everyone in the community to do their part in reducing the spread of COVID and to flatten our curve so we can continue to have capacity.” FBN

to reach people in rural communities where there may not be internet or phone service and difficult to explain these inequities to legislators when families don’t even have running water.” Attorney and newly elected District 1 Coconino County Supervisor Patrice Horstman has long been involved in the welfare of Arizona’s young people. She’s been a legal counselor to school districts across the state for more than 40 years and works with the Arizona Cactus-Pine Girl Scouts to help build their courage, confidence and character. She also coaches them on entrepreneurial skills to sell cookies. As a member of CCC&Y, she knows childhood trauma is repeated as children have the same experiences that their parents lived through. But, she says, education and schools can help reduce the effects of childhood trauma and be a point of healing and community for these kids. “We all see the effects of childhood trauma,” said Horstman. “It’s a huge cost to our communities when you consider chronic health and mental health problems, addiction and substance abuse. We see a higher percentage of poverty and teenage suicides in Coconino County than the national average. Poverty, racism, unaddressed Adverse Childhood Experiences and marginalized populations all add to traumas we see here.” In addition, with COVID-19, she says we’ve created a two-tiered education system, as many households don’t have the tools or capacity to teach children at home. “With childhood adversity, young people often end up dropping out of school earlier and losing educational, occupational and career opportunities, which also impacts the health and resiliency of the community.” But research shows resilient communities can counter those ACEs. A decades-long study that started in 1955 on Kauai, Hawaii, identified protective factors that help buffer against this adversity and may have more of a long-term impact than any one risk factor. Researchers identified pathways for how resiliency is developed and offered three major categories that make a difference in children’s

lives: 1. Internal disposition factors such as intelligence and temperament; 2. Connections with family and other caring adults; and, 3. External groups or systems that reward competence and provide a sense of coherence. According to the study, all three lead to positive responses from those around the child. “Self-healing communities are important for all of us,” said Horstman. “Being there and being that caring neighbor or adult, promoting equity and equality in the community, possessing a cultural awareness and acceptance – all of these play a role in developing a child’s self-worth and building a resilient, caring and healing community.” Hartzell asks the question: “Who is going to take care of you when you get older? If we don’t do things for these kids now, who’s going to be your plumber or nurse? We want today’s young people to grow up to be healthy adults and want to do whatever their dream may be.” She encourages community members to take at least one positive step. She points to the CCC&Y website for resources and encourages community members to donate, which enables the non-profit organization to bring trauma awareness training to more schools. She also suggests, “When you see children, smile. Compliment them. Ask how they’re doing. It’s simple. Wouldn’t you like someone to smile at you and say, ‘Hey, you’re doing a great job!’” Watahomigie imagines future communities in which the effects of childhood trauma are clearly understood, the impact of inequitable experience is acknowledged and people are aligned toward creating access to assets and protective factors that support positive life outcomes. CCC&Y is offering a free live training to the public at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 27. “This training will explore the roadmap to creating change at the community and system level by using the findings of both leadership research and today’s thought leaders,” she said. To register or learn more, visit coconinokids.org. Webinars can be found under the prevention tab. FBN

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RESILIENCY continued from page 16

nounced that roughly half the group would be working on a newscast as usual, without any mention of what was happening inside the studio. The others would cover nothing but the evening’s crisis. In a room full of news reporters, no one argued, no one challenged. Everyone got to work. West stood by, ready to go on the air at any moment. For the next three-and-a-half hours, stunned, worried, stressed professionals did their jobs. In total, four co-workers were held in the studio; two were released by Gwin early in the evening. All the while, Close talked with the gunman; Villa remained silent and motionless. There was speculation that perhaps Gwin was high on drugs. The 28-year-old’s eyes and focus seemed to shift at times. He was nervous and sweating as his thumb held the hammer of the gun. But Close, who was in contact with a police negotiator in the control room, pretended not to notice. He called his captor “Joe” and talked to him as if he were a guest. He asked the young man about his high school experience and told him he looked like an athlete. Later, we learned Gwin was mentally ill. Legally, it was determined that he was insane. “Bill allowed Joseph to be seen. He gave him his moment of fame and that made him feel important,” said West. “He kept calm, treated this mentally ill man with respect and

gained his trust.” Through the evening, Close engaged Gwin nonstop and learned that he wanted a statement read live on the air. Close negotiated a deal. He would read the statement in exchange for the gun. At about 9 p.m., station owner Homer Lane made the decision to break into the popular television program “Falcon Crest” and Anchorman Bill Close, in his trusted news voice, read from the pages that Gwin handed him in a “Special Broadcast.” The rambling 20-minute-or-so manifesto warned of a world war and identified country western singers like Johnny Cash and Tanya Tucker as also aware of what was yet to come. Gwin watched the broadcast on his monitor to make sure he wasn’t being tricked. Close held up his end of the bargain and so did Gwin, who surrendered his weapon. Again, remaining calm, Close casually, yet deliberately, slid the handgun across the news desk away from Gwin, as if he were brushing paperclips out of the way. Close stood up and shook hands with his captor. That’s when officers entered the studio. With a protective hand on Gwin’s shoulder, Close directed the police to put down their guns. By all accounts there were many acts of resiliency that night. “I just praise Bill Close to this day,” said West. “That was one of the greatest

things he ever did. He saved people’s lives. He was a hero.” Drew’s account continues like this: Looking back, there is one thing I remember most of all. Obviously, this was a huge story in Phoenix, and other Phoenix TV stations, radio stations, newspapers and even some national media arrived quickly out in front of our station waiting for word on what was going on inside. I will never forget what happened next. As the situation dragged on, the KOOL-TV station management agreed to let the media into the building that housed our newsroom so they didn’t have to stand outside. And not only did they let the media in, many of them were our own competition, but the KOOL management team also ordered pizzas for them. That’s right! Not only were the other media allowed inside, they were also treated to dinner and drinks. In addition, KOOL-TV brought in an extra TV monitor so the media could watch live what was happening. I can’t understate how incredible that is. In our business, getting the story first, beating your competition was a daily obsession. Yet, here, before my eyes, we were not only cooperating with the rest of the media, we were, in fact, facilitating their efforts, making it easier for them to cover the story! That sticks with me today, how we helped our competition cover this most difficult

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situation. Also memorable, as the story dragged on and on, no one panicked. No one ever yelled, there was no running, no sense that one of the nation’s biggest stories was happening in our own house. I saw everyone being civil to each other. I will never forget that part, how such an immense tragedy, such a huge emergency, was taking place right before our eyes, yet everyone seemed under control. And most important of all, I remember how Bill Close’s calm response probably saved lives that night.

past. What didn’t change were traits of resiliency that show up like heroes in difficult times. Resilient people:

As a young assistant producer writing news stories about events other than what I could see on monitors above my desk, I was struck by how quiet, focused and caring everyone was in the newsroom. When I returned to work on Monday morning, there were locks on all doors leading outside and bars on the windows. People escorted each other to their cars, a few parking lots away. An awareness settled in about who was in the building or even lingering nearby. Phoenix, we had to face, had changed, seemingly overnight. It was indeed a big city with big city threats. A television station with workers running back and forth across an alley and flying in and out of unlocked doors would be a thing of the

COVID-19 is testing our resiliency today. It could well be considered our gunman holding us hostage, threatening to cause harm and calling the shots. We all have a role to play to keep ourselves and others safe. How well we practice and demonstrate resilience will be remembered by today’s young people who will tell their grandchildren what resilience looks like and how heroes behave in a crisis. FBN

N Maintain a sense of control. N Remain calm. N Are situationally aware. N Focus on problem-solving. N Identify as survivors, not as victims. N Treat others kindly. N Look for the win-win. N Cooperate and step into their role. N Express empathy, soften even, to gain an understanding of others.

Bonnie Stevens is a public relations consultant. She can be reached at bonnie.stevens@ gmail.com.

121 E. Birch Avenue, Suite 408 Flagstaff, AZ 86001 Phone 928.864.7440 Fax 928.226.0303 Email: troy@flagstaffbusinessnews.com www.flagstaffbusinessnews.com Publisher: Troy Bix Director of Marketing, Media Sales & Distribution Deborah “DMK” Mainville-Knight 928-460-4330 dmk@flagstaffbusinessnews.com Account Executives Regina Salas | 928-699-4272 regina@flagstaffbusinessnews.com Editor Bonnie Stevens | 928-380-4349 bonnie.stevens@gmail.com Copy Editor Carolyn Wendell | cwendell@gmail.com Design & Production Rob Ghosh Design | rob@robghosh.com

Website Content Director Darren Choate admin@flagstaffbusinessnews.com Photography V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography, Aspen ProMedia, Betsey Bruner, Sue Marceau Contributing Writers Betsey Bruner, Sue Marceau, Patty McCormac, Ray Newton, Kevin Schindler, Bonnie Stevens, Veronica Tierney, Stacey Wittig Flagstaff Business News is a publication of Flagstaff Business News, LLC and is distributed free each month to residents of Flagstaff, Sedona, Williams and Winslow. Reproduction of any portion of the publication is strictly prohibited without expressed permission. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisements submitted to the newspaper and is not responsible for the claims of its advertisers.

JANUARY 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

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REAL ESTATE continued from page 1

all remain safe and are not spreading the coronavirus.” To adjust to social distancing and other safety guidelines, realtors have adapted by using more technological support and providing virtual open houses and 3D walk-through tours. Even so, prices continue to rise and double-digit annual growth continues month over month in both list and sale prices. Those who remember the real estate frenzy of 2006 may well be wincing in anticipation of another bursting bubble, which nose-dived Arizona’s and the nation’s housing and construction market in 2008 and brought on The Great Recession. “The difference is that there are safety measures in place now that weren’t around then regarding lending,” said Nelson. “People are not over-extending themselves. They are not allowed to. In the early 2000s, everybody could get a loan. Things are different now. We will probably see some type of market adjustment in the coming years, such as the slowing down of rising housing costs, but not the extreme drop we experienced a decade ago.” Meanwhile, all indicators show interest rates will stay low. “In the past year, they have fluctuated around 2.7% and 2.8%, the lowest we’ve seen since 1971,” he said. “We might see a slight increase toward the middle of 2021, but they will probably stay around 3%.”

ARIZONA REMAINS A ‘BARGAIN’

Although real estate prices have risen overall, Nelson says Arizona is still a great place to buy. “We’re seeing huge activity in Prescott, with a lot of Victorians and bungalows. Also in Flagstaff, Sedona and through the Verde Valley into Camp Verde and Cottonwood,” said Nelson. “There is something for everyone – from condos to townhomes to single-family homes – sometimes you have to go outside city limits to find it.” Emerging markets to watch, he says, are rural towns like Williams and Kingman and the surrounding areas with available private land. “People complain about the cost of housing in Flagstaff and other rural markets, but Arizona across the board is a bargain. When you look around, homes in New Mexico and Utah are higher. Colorado is ridiculously higher and, of course, so is California.” Nelson adds into the equation the quality-of-life benefits that mountain and rural communities offer, with open space and nearby forests, which make Arizona attractive. He’s noticed the increase in outdoor recreation on the trails through the pandemic and understands that desire to be close to nature, which has kept him in Northern Arizona. “Prescott and Flagstaff have a very outdoorsy personality. People here

enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, stand up paddle and skiing. These are the reasons we felt we could raise a family in this environment after exploring other communities across the West,” said Nelson, who grew up in Flagstaff. He and his wife, Tammy, the principal at Mount Elden Middle School, have raised two daughters here. “We wanted our children to grow up enjoying the outdoors like we did.” Nelson says a lifetime of outdoor recreation activities has kept him in better shape now than he was 15 years ago. “We do 17-mile day hikes with backpacks,” he said. His hope is to complete the entire 800-mile Arizona Trail in the next two years. His brother, John, was involved in the Gary Nelson is looking forward to representing rural area realtors as the 2021 trail’s development around Flagstaff president-elect of the Arizona Association of Realtors. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography and Mormon Lake in the 1990s. “We have 365 miles in and have another level, we’re probably one of the most cities. Rural realtors have to be good 450 to go.” at selling land and dealing with septic powerful lobbying entities. We advosystems, private water companies and cate for private property rights and GIVING RURAL COMMUNITIES A wells, which is not usually the case in fair housing and also included in that is housing opportunity and lending more urban areas.” VOICE Nelson looks forward to being able opportunity.” FBN In his new role as president-elect of to travel again, as more people bethe Arizona Association of Realtors, come vaccinated, in order to promote An Arizona realtor since 1994, Nelson can Nelson believes he can better repreprofessional real estate standards sent the concerns of rural area realbe reached at gary@garynelsongroup. and ethics. “The biggest part of our tors. “Typically, Northern Arizona com. realtors are very well trained, but they code of ethics, which started in 1913, might feel like they don’t have a voice involves fair housing laws and rules. Realtors hold themselves to a higher at the table in statewide and national discussions. The rules and regulations standard than federal and local fair housing laws. On a state and national differ for rural counties and larger

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