Issuu

BEST OF BUSINESS WINNERS p. 34

INSIDE THE MARCH 2021 ISSUE: Liz Archuleta Joins Biden Team p. 3

Amangiri Features Serene Luxury p. 8

Wee Sewing Shop Finds Fit in Downtown p. 4 Discovering Hidden Culinary Gems p. 6

IFL’s Wranglers Preparing to Play in PV p. 12 Community Profile: Meet Grand Canyon’s Chocolatier p. 17

Legendary Cattle Ranch Ushering in New Era in Renewables Wind turbines to co-exist with Babbitt Ranches cattle herd, wildlife conservation efforts and public recreation while golden eagle conservation area being planned By Bonnie Stevens, FBN

renewable energy project is being planned by NextEra Energy Resources on the expansive high desert rangeland of Babbitt Ranches and Arizona State Trust Land, about 30 miles north

of Flagstaff. The proposed Babbitt Ranch Energy Center is said to be an innovative project that combines wind energy, solar energy and battery energy storage – all in the same location – making more renewable energy available to customers for more hours of the day, even when the sun is not

shining and the wind is not blowing. The project will have a capacity of up to 161 megawatts of wind energy and 60 megawatts of solar energy, paired with a 60 megawatt, four-hour battery energy storage system. The Babbitt Ranch project is expected to create 250 jobs during construction.

Once operational, the project has the potential to create good-paying jobs and millions in additional revenue for the local community. “As Babbitt Ranches honors its 135th anniversary on April 7, we are celebrating a legacy of landContinued on page 38

Snowbowl Ski Paw-trol Ava the avalanche rescue dog is trained to find skiers under the snow By Bonnie Stevens, FBN

A Ava rides on Hagerty’s shoulders as she skis the slopes. Avalanche drills include games like hide and seek and tug-of-war. Photo by Bonnie Stevens

March 2021 | Issue 3 Volume 14

t 4 years old, Ava can be found bouncing through a heavy powder day, catching a lift on the Arizona Gondola or riding on the shoulders of her handler, Hailey Hagerty, as she skis the trails at Arizona Snowbowl. Her favorite activity is playing hide and seek in the woods. For her, that means finding a human scent buried in the snow and then digging until she finds what she’s looking for.

“We put people in really shallow snow caves underneath the snow for this exercise – it’s safe and there’s plenty of air,” said Hagerty. “She uses her sense of smell. And when she does find somebody, she keys in on that spot and then alerts the ski patrollers searching by digging down and barking. Once she gets to them, she tries to get them out of the snow with a tug-of-war toy. It’s the most exciting thing in the world for her. She gets super stoked when she finds somebody.”

Ava, an English Cream Golden Retriever, is Snowbowl’s first avalanche rescue dog. She was introduced to the mountain resort when Hagerty was an undergraduate student in public health at Northern Arizona University. “My capstone project was to start this Avalanche Rescue Dog Program up here.” As she developed her project, Hagerty pitched the idea to Snowbowl. Today, at age 26, Hagerty is an EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) on Ski Patrol as well as a nurse at Flagstaff Medical Center. Ava, her dog and co-worker, Continued on page 43

CHECK OUT OUR NEW FBN PET NEWS SECTION, COVERING A VARIETY OF SUBJECTS ABOUT OUR FAVORITE FURRY FRIENDS ON PAGE 24

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Archuleta for Agriculture Longtime county supervisor begins job on Biden’s team

By Betsey Bruner, FBN

t has been a rapid slide into home base for Elizabeth “Liz” Archuleta of Flagstaff. Archuleta, the distinguished Coconino County District 2 Supervisor for 24 years, resigned her position on Tuesday, Feb. 2. By Thursday, Feb. 4, she was fully engaged in her new post in the Biden-Harris administration as director of Intergovernmental Affairs in the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). “I am very excited to serve at a national level and bring my perspective and experience as county supervisor and a lifetime rural resident with deep roots in Arizona and centuries of family history in New Mexico,” said Archuleta, who is working virtually from home and was reached by phone between meetings in the midst of her demanding new schedule. “It’s an honor getting a presidential appointment. I was, of course, thrilled to be chosen and to be able to make a difference at the national level.” Archuleta, 56, a native of Flagstaff, lives on the east side of town with her husband, Franklin Willis, a professor in the Fine Arts Department at Northern Arizona University, and their 12-year-old son, Demitrius (Demi). She comes from one of the Hispanic pioneer families of Flagstaff who have lived here for five generations. “My grandfather was one of the first Hispanic business owners in Flagstaff. He owned a store named Everybody’s Market in the southside of downtown,” she said. Archuleta’s parents started a family business when she was 9, which created the opportunity for her and her siblings to attend Northern Arizona University (NAU). “From this foundation comes a dedication over the course of my career to equity, community building, increasing educational and economic opportunities for residents, and creating a quality of life where children and families are safe, supported and can prosper.” At age 31, she became the first Hispanic female elected to the Board of Supervisors and has long been a leading light in the Coconino County Democratic Party. One of the first initiatives she started was the Sunnyside Weed and Seed program in the neighborhood where she grew up. It was aimed at reducing crime rates and increasing opportunities for youth and families. Another major accomplishment was creating and funding the transit system, Northern Arizona Intergovernmental Public Transportation Authority (NAIPTA).

Liz Archuleta

She also led criminal justice reform, advocating for a Ban the Box ordinance at the county and state level, which created more opportunities for formerly incarcerated individuals to get jobs and integrate back into the community. And, she was a champion for public lands, water, forest restoration and natural resources. She founded the Coconino Plateau Water Advisory Council. “One of the most challenging and fulfilling achievements was navigating the Schultz fire and flood that devastated my district,” she said. “I immediately did everything in my power to ensure the residents were safe and for years after, worked to bring the resources of the county, state and federal government to build flood-mitigation projects to keep communities safe from post-fire flooding for years to come.” Throughout her career, Archuleta has held numerous leadership positions with the County Supervisors Association of Arizona, the National Association of Latino Elected Officials and the National Association of Counties. She says her departure from the Board of Supervisors is bittersweet. “Building community and working hard to ensure everyone has a voice and is represented has been my passion and a life’s calling. It was a difficult decision because in the past 24 years, I have been able to see the difference I can make in communities and peoples’ lives.” At her final meeting as supervisor, she made Continued on page 40

// “I am very excited to serve at a national level and bring my perspective and experience as county supervisor and a lifetime rural resident with deep roots in Arizona and centuries of family history in New Mexico. It’s an honor getting a presidential appointment. I was, of course, thrilled to be chosen and to be able to make a difference at the national level.” //

Flagstaff Business News // MARCH 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

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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.

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Frank and Lynne Gallagher have brought a life of fashion experience to downtown Flagstaff with their new store, Wee Scotty Sewing and Craft Boutique, on North Leroux. Courtesy photo by Annie Brewer

Dressing the Downtown with a Wee Bit of Fabric Skilled seamstress brings her style to downtown Flagstaff

By Betsey Bruner, FBN

here is a new shop in town, and when you visit, you will be inspired to grab some needle and thread. The doors at Wee Scotty Sewing and Craft Boutique on North Leroux Street opened in early February and the place has rapidly become a creative center. Wee Scotty owner Lynne Gallagher has dipped her toes into every part of the fashion industry, from product development to costume design, dressing actors in numerous theatrical productions and musicians in touring rock bands. At the new location, Gallagher’s fashion runway includes a full range of sewing-related offerings, including a sewing school for all ages, craft supplies, sewing notions, quilting necessities, top-quality fabrics, a design center, as well as the sales, repair and servicing of sewing machines. Of special interest are the sewing classes. “COVID has piqued interest in new, curious sewers,” Gallagher noted. “We have been servicing smaller classroom sizes in person and on Zoom. And it has been a huge success in every way.” Pandemic precautions include sanitizing before class begins, questioning participants about possible exposure, running HEPA air filters, requiring social distancing and enforcing mandatory mask wearing throughout class. “Everyone gets their own set of tools and machines to work, then we re-sanitize again after the departure of students,” she said. During the summer, Wee Scotty plans to offer week-long sessions for young people, often assisted by teens who have studied previously with Gallagher. Gallagher, who was born in the Motor City of Detroit and raised in Buffalo, New York, was very excited to find a place of business in a historic landmark location, which she describes as “the first location of a vaulted bank in Flagstaff, a few doors down from the train station.” She and her husband, Frank Gallagher, who is on hiatus during the pandemic from his work as

a production and tour manager, had visited Flagstaff many times through the years to visit family. They decided to relocate from San Francisco, where they had opened their last store. Gallagher ran sewing classes for kids and developed one of many clothing lines for Banana Republic, Levi’s, Joe Boxer, bridal designers, Vogue Patterns and a rock n’ roll inspired line of clothing for children, dubbed “Wee Scotty.” “We literally packed our store into a pod and expected to find a location by April 1, but leaving a sunny afternoon from Mother Road, I took a turn on Leroux and this little place was calling to me. I have all the same great feelings about sharing my experiences in creativity and design with this new community of creatives here in Flagstaff,” she said. The store name, Wee Scotty, comes from Frank’s Scottish ancestors, who “make a mean family recipe shortbread,” she explained. Frank is helping at the store, as is their daughter, Leah Jean Gallagher, who at 3, was already a “natural” seamstress, her mother said. “She currently works as the youngest hire of Wicked on Broadway and at the Metropolitan Opera House and many other Broadway shows,” Gallagher said. “As a musical theatre major at New York University (NYU), she was a freshman and brought all her sewing experience to the graduate program and was hired as wardrobe supervisor for the graduate department for four years during her education.” Lynne’s interest in sewing also started at a young age. “I have been sewing since I was 7 years old. I am from a big family of seven kids, five boys and one sister, who is 11 years younger. I have to say I tried for years to play baseball, but they always put me in the outfield. I knew I had to find my own passion. Our neighbor, Mrs. Schwob, was an educator, and she must have known I needed some attention. She would have me over to show her current works and her slick, top-of-the-line Husqvarna Viking machine. Finally, she said to my mom, ‘Barb, I think Lynne likes sewing, and I am teaching a class on stretch fabrics. I would like to bring her with me.’ Well, Continued on page 41

MARCH 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

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Hidden Eateries Flagstaff’s tucked-away treasures add to the rich cuisine scene By V. Ronnie Tierney, FBN

Abdallah says he uses the olive oil in his dishes. “The food is healthy, made from oodies often find that eateries scratch, and so delicious,” said Northoff the beaten path serve some ern Arizona University (NAU) nursing of the tastiest surprises and most student Camie Riese. “The staff is also authentic ethnic dishes. My Pita Wrap Mediterranean Grill, The Asian Station very friendly. I’ve bought several items from their store and next on my list is and the White Dove Coffee Shop are their virgin olive oil.” just a few of Flagstaff’s hidden gems. Tucked in among the colorful storeTucked away in the Green Tree fronts of South San Francisco St., The Mini Mall off Milton Road, My Pita Asian Station would be easy to miss if Wrap Mediterranean Grill not only you’re not looking closely. Serving a serves fresh Greek favorites such as fusion of Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamhummus, falafel, baba ghanoush and chicken, beef and lamb gyros, it also has ese and Thai food, owners Kampy and Ladda Khonphian opened their an in-house food market. Owner Sam Abdallah says all his recipes are derived restaurant two years ago. Stating that their best sellers are from his hometown in Palestine, 15 minutes north of Jerusalem in a village Orange Chicken, Duck Noodle Soup, Kaprow with Egg and Pad Thai, Kampy he says is full of olive trees. Knonphian’s amiable personality adds “I use my family’s recipes from the to the dining experience. old country and 98% of our food is “My favorite aspect about The Asian prepared from scratch,” he said. Station is the owners. They remember According to Abdallah, his Corner you from the first time you walk into Mediterranean Store is the only store the door so you get lots of personal in Northern Arizona that sells Greek food. “We stock spices, Middle Eastern attention,” said Liquiterra co-owner teas, dates, tahini, halva, bulgur, stuffed Sydney Francis. “The food is great and I like the fact that I can get a variety of vine leaves and a very rich olive oil made fresh from the factory in Greece.” my favorites such as Kraprow and their

Preparing haute cuisine reflecting their homeland of Thailand alongside other Asian influences, Kampy and Ladda Khonphian have owned The Asian Station for two years and are willing to prepare items not listed on their menu if they have the ingredients. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney Fresh Focuses Photography

Chicken Noodle soup is an amazing, flavored with anise and drumsticks. I go there at least once a week.” Going on 17 years in operation, Steve Dohse opened his White Dove

Coffee shop as an addition to his church. He then closed his church and kept the coffee shop, expanding the space to include two stages surrounding his eating area and a space next

door that he rents to the Flagstaff School of Music. “Because we’ve been here so long, we’ve become a well-known gathering Continued on page 36

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Amangiri: Desert Decompression for Those Seeking Uncomplicated Elegance

By Bonnie Stevens, FBN

ecluded among petrified sandstone monuments in the Southern Utah desert, about a 25-minute drive from Page, is a wealthy minimalist’s dream. Amangiri, a Sanskrit word for “peaceful mountain,” is a starkly serene luxury resort situated on 600 acres in the Grand Circle region, an area exhibiting unparalleled raw beauty, famous for its national parks like the Grand Canyon, national monuments including Grand Staircase-Escalante and the Navajo Nation, whose culture is intricately woven into the Southwest. Those who aren’t looking for it wouldn’t know it’s here, which is part of Amangiri’s worldwide appeal to a very exclusive clientele – from A-list celebrities to software geniuses. “We try to connect guests to the spirit of the place, this sanctuary for people in an extraordinary location,” said General Manager Julien Surget. Visitors may feel like they are sitting in a sculpture or living in a modern art gallery that flows, like the gentle fountains found throughout the property, from inside the clean lines of the

concrete walls to the outdoor simplicity of stone terraces. Design elements frame expansive views with changing pastel palettes through secret windows and unpretentious hallways. Even, the human-made artwork is a reflection of the timeless landscape. Large paintings, brushed with grains of sand forgotten by an ancient shallow sea, adorn the walls of the dining room. The centerpiece is a 160-millionyear-old giant boulder, said to be the inspiration for the entire resort, showcased and wrapped by a year-round 86-degree pool. The private property, acquired in the early 2000s, is the result of a land swap with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), which took three

Left: General Manager Julien Surget, shown here in front of artwork sculpted from sand on the property, says guests seek adventure and a connection with nature. Photo by Bonnie Stevens Right: A giant boulder, edged on three sides by a spacious pool kept at 86 degrees year round, is said to have been the inspiration for Amangiri. Courtesy photo

years, an act of Congress and the signature of President George W. Bush. “We’ve learned millionaires and billionaires aren’t really looking for

that world of chandeliers and pillars. Those are things of the past,” said Amangiri Executive Chef Anthony Marazita. “Simplicity is what they are

after. Uncomplicated luxury.” The array of sparkling stretch BMWs and the hidden helipad hint Continued on page 32

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Living and Promoting Adventure Romy Murphy keeps Pink Jeeps rolling at the Grand Canyon By V. Ronnie Tierney, FBN

orking at the historic El Tovar Hotel on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon and eventually heading downhill to Phantom Ranch to work for six years was the plan Romy Murphy had for making it to the top. Now, claiming two titles, general manager of Pink Jeep Tours Grand Canyon and president of the Grand Canyon Chamber of Commerce, Murphy says working at Phantom Ranch taught her some good lessons. “Besides being an amazing place to work, I learned a lot of great stuff at Phantom Ranch as kitchen manager,” said Murphy. “Living with the people you work with makes you a better person. You had to get along and if you didn’t, you’d have to figure out how to avoid each other, which is impossible. So, you learn to get along.” Located at the bottom of the Grand Canyon, Phantom Ranch sits alongside Bright Angel Creek and is the only lodging inside the canyon. About 20 or fewer employees work at the ranch. Born in Holyoke, Massachusetts, Murphy worked as pastry chef at El Tovar for two summers. One of her fondest memories was working a full shift and after riding her bike to the South Kaibab Trailhead, hiking down to Phantom Ranch to take a swim and then hike back up. “I was a young puppy then; it took two-and-a-half hours to get down and about the same to hike out.” After two summers, Murphy left the Grand Canyon and headed back home to work in the food industry. “My brother was in culinary school, so he helped me snag a few jobs. I worked at the Charles Hotel. When the pastry chef left to start a catering company, I followed him.” During what she calls her “adventure years,” Murphy found her way back to Arizona, after stops in Florida and Salt Lake City. She found work

at Biff’s Bagels (now in Flagstaff, then in Prescott) and then became kitchen manager at Mile High Grill (now Clinkscale) in Jerome. Today, she heads up Grand Canyon Pink Jeep Tours, where co-workers rave about her. “I’ve worked for Grand Canyon Pink Jeep Tours for over two years and she’s the best boss I’ve ever had,” said Customer Service Supervisor Ryann Barron. “She likes to get her hands in as much as she can and always makes sure everyone is taken care of. Not only here, but around Tusayan as well. I’ve been very fortunate to be a part of the Pink Jeep community.” One of Murphy’s favorite parts of her job is training and hiring guides. “It’s so much fun and I love developing our guides to help them exceed our guests’ expectations. Some of our guides have developed connections with our guests and become lifelong friends with them. Our guides create memories worth repeating.” Murphy also enjoyed participating in the Grand Canyon Rim-toRim trash pickup, which she’s been involved in for three years. “We pick up about six pounds of trash per day hiking from the North Rim to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.” Former President of Pink Jeep Tours Grand Canyon Tim Miller says that Murphy brought genuine passion and compassion into her work and personal life. “Romy is a real champion for the Grand Canyon and it shows in all she has done there. She is completely devoted to her work and very knowledgeable about the area. A true leader. And, oh, what a great chef.” FBN

Romy Murphy enjoys sharing Arizona’s scenic beauty and memorable experiences with guests through Grand Canyon Pink Jeep Tours. Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photograp

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Businesses Welcoming Upcoming Wranglers Season

By Brent Ruffner, FBN

rescott Valley businesses are anticipating a boost as the Northern Arizona Wranglers take to the field for eight home games in the downtown area. The first game is scheduled against the Arizona Rattlers in Prescott Valley on Sunday, May 16. Marnie Uhl, president of Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce, said the impact could be great. The Findlay Toyota Center has seen recent professional teams play in its arena – the NAZ Suns and the Arizona Sundogs. “It’s a huge impact when a team is playing regular games,” she said. Uhl, who has been the chamber’s president for 15 years, said businesses from hotels to restaurants should see an uptick in business. Through the years, she has seen the entertainment district take shape so that the newest team will be “an asset” to the community. “[The planners] did an amazing job of creating a vibrant feel in a rural area,” Uhl said. Eddie Padillo, regional manager of Tailgaters Sports Grill & IL Primo Pizza And Wings, said he is looking forward to more events in the area. The restaurant features anything from a bowl of chili to several kinds

of specialty pizza. He said he is hopeful regular football would be a draw for patrons before and after gridiron games. “Anytime they are bringing back events, it is a positive thing,” Padillo said. So far, it is unknown whether fans would be allowed to fill the entire arena – about 5,000 seats. That decision is a collaborative one from the town, health department and arena officials. Indoor Football League officials help advise what determination should be made come game day. Ticket sales are “good,” according to Northern Arizona Wranglers Owner Trey Medlock. “Until we reach late April or the first of May, nobody can say accurately how many people will be allowed in the arena.” Medlock is the owner of the state’s third team in the Indoor Football League (IFL), which includes the Arizona Rattlers and the Tucson Sugar Skulls. Buffalo Wild Wings General Manager Jessica Wallace remembers spikes in business when the NAZ Suns were in town. She said she noticed “a lot more” sales before and after basketball home games and expects much of the same with the Wranglers. “We’re excited for what

Prescott resident Chad Garner (right) watches sports at Buffalo Wild Wings in Prescott Valley. Garner said he plans to attend the inaugural Northern Arizona Wranglers game on May 16. Photo by Brent Ruffner

it’s going to bring.” Prescott resident Chad Garner said he plans to go to the first game against the Rattlers. He has followed the team since officials announced

its name on the IFL website. “I love watching indoor football,” he said. “It’s fun.” Padillo said he is thankful that events such as football games are

planned to take place in the summertime. “At the end of the day, we are happy to be open.” FBN

MARCH 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

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The Humphreys office is open and here to help! In a mid-February media briefing conducted via Zoom, Northern Arizona Healthcare Chief Quality Officer Dr. John Mougin encouraged residents to get vaccinated and thanked volunteers for assisting at vaccination clinics. Photo by Bonnie Stevens

More Arizonans Now Eligible for Vaccine

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overnor Doug Ducey and the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) are taking a hybrid approach to COVID-19 vaccinations that now provides Arizonans 55 and older eligibility, along with frontline essential workers. The new approach launched March 2, in the Phoenix Metro Area. The governor’s office states 90% of Arizona’s deaths from the virus have been among those 55 and older. About 65% of those hospitalized from COVID-19 are in that age group. Including adults 55 and older in the vaccine prioritization category will cover between 56% and 66% of Arizonans with medical conditions that place them at severe risk for adverse outcomes because of COVID-19, according to the state. “This critical update provides more clarity for Arizonans and will result in rapid administration of vaccine to our most vulnerable populations,” said Governor Ducey. “Continuing to vaccinate

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// Northern Arizona Healthcare officials say they are doing everything they can to get shots into arms. In midFebruary, NAH, which operates Flagstaff Medical Center and Verde Valley Medical Center, reported administering 10,000 doses. “Right now our goal is to give at least 500 doses a day,” said NAH Chief Quality Officer Dr. John Mougin. //

older Arizonans against COVID-19 will help protect those at risk and cover a majority of Arizonans with chronic medical conditions.” The Department of Health and Human Services reported that both Moderna and Pfizer had been experiencing a backlog of orders for the COVID-19 vaccine because of February’s severe weather in parts of the country. Meanwhile, the Johnson & Johnson vaccine is expected to be distributed in Arizona this month. “As more vaccine reaches Arizona, we will continue refining our plan to maximize the benefits of this still-limited resource,” said ADHS Director Dr. Cara Christ. Northern Arizona Healthcare officials say they are doing everything they can to get shots into arms. In mid-February, NAH, which operates Flagstaff Medical Center and Verde Valley Medical Center, reported administering 10,000 doses. “Right now our goal is to give at least 500 doses a day,” said NAH Chief Quality Officer Dr. John Mougin. The most common side effect, he says, is soreness in the arm. “It’s from the injection itself and the needle. You can get low grade fevers, body aches or joint aches. Those things we’re seeing a little bit more frequently with the second shot than the first shot.” NAH officials are working with Yavapai County to open vaccine clinics in Camp Verde and Sedona, which they expect to occur in the next couple of weeks, depending on vaccine availability. “One of the NAH goals is to partner with the counties to really make Coconino County and Yavapai County the leaders of the state as far as the rate of vaccinations,” said Mougin. Meanwhile, as the number of COVID-19 cases continues to decline in Northern Arizona, NAH Chief Nursing Officer Tyffany Laurano says creative strategies have helped to ensure that enough healthcare workers have been available to treat patients. “One thing that we’re most proud of as an organization is we maintained our nursing ratios throughout the duration of the pandemic, and that has not changed. We have travelers [traveling healthcare workers] with us, as well as some temporary staff.” Healthcare officials continue to stress masking Continued on page 42

MARCH 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

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// BUSINESS CENTS // BY BONNIE STEVENS

Mental Toughness Finds a Way Out of the Jungle

f Maui were a woman, she would look like Amanda Eller. At a lean 5-foot-7 and donning a long, breezy, tangerine-colored dress, Amanda seemed to float, not walk, down the main street of Makawao. Her delicate golden leaf earrings dangled and shimmered against her long smooth, shiny, dark brown hair. Tan, fit and self-assured, Amanda is a calm, poised vision of tropical health. If there is such a thing as an old soul, that would be Amanda, wise, yet youthful. From my perspective, she is the human essence of the Aloha Spirit, embodying the island’s gentleness, beauty and strength. Not surprisingly, Amanda is a healer. She teaches yoga, practices mindfulness, exercises regularly – hikes, runs, scuba dives, swims – and spends a great deal of time in nature. As I was locking the bike that my husband and I bought for $100 from a surfer named Chad, I could not help but notice Amanda’s natural elegance as she ascended the stairs next to me. Moments later, I realized she was the doctor of physical therapy that I had pedaled through the upcountry to see. Could this island goddess coax my limping, misaligned, banged-up body

into something that moved like hers? I was more than eager to adopt that fantasy. As I lay on her table and gave her my best self-diagnosis of injured discs, sciatica, torn ligaments and a sprained ankle, she methodically worked on my bruised muscles, misbehaving fascia and screaming trigger points. We talked about Maui as an island that calls to you. We discussed jobs, spirituality and gentle places to ease back into an active lifestyle: like hiking the Kahakapao Loop at the Makawao Forest Reserve for a short journey into the cool rainforest; and exercising at Baby Beach, a shallow cove protected by reefs from the wild North Shore waves but with such a strong current that you can actually swim in place – and people like to bring their babies there, both human and canine. She also talked about some special waterfalls on the Road to Hana that most visitors don’t know about. Between outdoor adventures during my stay, I would limp back to Amanda’s office and limp a little less when I left. Six months later and back in Arizona, I was half-listening to the morning news when I heard the words “Maui,”

“yoga instructor” and “missing.” With a sick knot forming in my stomach, I looked to the television screen to see Amanda’s serene image, with the same delicate golden leaf earrings. I learned her car was at a trailhead, her keys were stashed under one of the tires and Amanda was nowhere to be found. Extraordinary search efforts were organized, first by the state and later extended by her friends and family. Funds were raised, vigils were held, helicopter pilots flew and search dogs aided ground efforts. But still, no sign of Amanda. Upon immediately reaching out to her yoga community, one of her friends told me she was the strongest person she knew, “physically and spiritually.” Totally believable. In the long days ahead, I couldn’t stop obsessing about where she could be. My constant concern crept into my dreams where I felt as though I was running through the thick Maui jungle passing broad giant leaves that seemed to be deliberately positioned to catch raindrops. Except when I looked down, those weren’t my legs, they were longer, leaner, darker. If you believe we’re all connected on some level, you’ll understand why I believed Amanda was out

there somewhere, swallowed up by the lush vegetation. Seventeen days after she vanished, a helicopter pilot spotted her, wildly waving from the top of a dangerously tall waterfall. Dehydrated, she cried dry tears of joy when she realized her rescuers had arrived. For 17 days, she ate leaves and berries and slept in dens made by wild boars. She had lost her shoes in a flash flood and dropped at least 20 pounds from her already slender frame. She had set out for a short jog and meditation in the trees on an ordinary Wednesday, her day off, in May with no hat, no sunscreen, no water, no phone. As she ceaselessly worked to find her way back, she had fallen, injured a knee and had raging infections spreading on her shins. In a news conference, Amanda expressed her gratitude to the community that never gave up. She was shocked to learn she had become national news. And many believe finding her alive was a miracle. I would say that miracle had a lot to work with: Amanda’s mental strength.

MENTALLY STRONG PEOPLE:

Solve problems. Amanda knew she

needed food, water and shelter. Obtaining those necessities was where her energy went. Tolerate discomfort. Instead of grieving about the bed she didn’t have, Amanda was grateful to find plants trampled and patted down by animals where she could rest. Accept responsibility and learn from their mistakes. Amanda was the first to acknowledge that she had set off that Saturday morning unprepared and without informing anyone. Believe in a higher power. There were times when Amanda questioned why she was being put through such anguish, but found comfort in an inner voice that assured her that she was not being punished. Keep their goals in front of them. Amanda’s goals have long been to offer healing. Even through her ordeal, she thought there might be something she could learn that would help others. She forced herself to think about what benefits could be derived from the experience and pushed her mind beyond her current predicament. Have a strong network. Amanda was shocked to know how many people

PAID PARKING RESUMES WHAT HAS CHANGED: You asked, we listened. We’ve made the following enhancements to the parking program. ▶ New Hours / New Signs – The number of free parking hours have been extended, and paid parking will be managed fewer DOWNTOWN hours. PAY-TO-PARK • Sunday thru Thursday SUN – THUR 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM 9 AM – 5 PM • Friday and Saturday FRI– SAT 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM 9 AM – 8 PM ▶ FREE Curbside Pick-Up Zones • Multiple parking spaces allocated for 20-minute periods to accommodate quick in-and-out business access on north and south sides of the tracks. ▶ Added Employee Parking • 200 N. Leroux St. • 100 W. Birch Ave. • 200 N. Beaver St. ▶ Employee Permits are now $10 ▶ Kiosk Care – Daily Disinfecting

Continued on page 37

MARCH 1, 2021

WHAT REMAINS THE SAME: ▶ Parking cost remains $1.00 an hour ▶ Know your LICENSE PLATE NUMBER – keep a photo/note in your phone ▶ Touchless options available with the Flowbird App and online at ParkFlag.NuPark.com ▶ Cash payment options available at the Flagstaff Visitors Center and 4 (four) cash and credit kiosks downtown ▶ Free ECO passes (bus) available for downtown employees ▶ Free parking in city and county lots daily after 5 pm and on weekends; free two-hour parking on Route 66

BENEFITS: ▶ Manages limited parking for residents and businesses ▶ Promotes safe parking practices ▶ Sets aside funds for future parking supply

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Flagstaff Business News // MARCH 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com

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Krueger Appointed to Coconino County Superior Court

overnor Doug Ducey has announced the appointment of Stacy Krueger to the Coconino County Superior Court to fill the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge Mark R. Moran. In 2018, Coconino County voters opted to move from elections for judges on the Superior Court to merit selection, where the Coconino County Trial Court Commission makes recommendations to the governor for appointments to fill judicial vacancies. Krueger is the governor’s first appointment to the Coconino County Superior Court through this new process. “Stacy’s dedication and service to the Coconino County community is an asset to the bench,” said Governor Ducey. “I am pleased to announce Stacy’s appointment to the Coconino County Superior Court.” FBN

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CCC and ASU Partner For Smooth Student Transfer

oconino Community College has partnered with Arizona State University to offer a seamless transfer experience, with the MyPath2ASU program. CCC officials say MyPath2ASU allows students to take the steps needed at the start of their college experience to successfully plan their transfer to ASU and ensure a smooth transition process for success after earning credits or an associate degree from CCC. “Our partnership with Arizona State University and the MyPath2ASU program offers a wonderful opportunity for our students,” said CCC President Dr. Colleen A. Smith. “Alongside the incredibly successful CCC2NAU program, CCC can now offer students who wish to attend ASU the same seamless transition to attaining a bachelor’s degree and beyond.” Students using MyPath2ASU will have access to personalized benefits to help them navigate their transfer experience, such as: End-to-end learner navigation through course-by-course guided pathways; Help with identifying courses that apply to

their associate and ASU bachelor’s degrees; Guaranteed general admission to ASU and admission into MyPath2ASU major choice if all requirements are satisfied. Some majors have additional or higher admission requirements; More than 400 course-by-course guided pathways into immersion and online ASU degree programs; Self-service, degree progress tracking through My Transfer Guide to minimize a loss of credits; Connected experience through personalized ASU communications to prepare academically and build a connection to ASU. ASU and CCC will work together to promote educational degree pathways in-person and online course offerings. To schedule an appointment, contact Sonjia Jones, CCC Academic and Career Advisor and Transfer advisor for ASU, at calendly.com/sonjia-jones, or call 928-226-4392, or email Sonjia. Jones@coconino.edu. FBN

MARCH 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

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

Teen Builds Business Out of Chocolate Tyler Stickler works hard to make life sweeter at the Grand Canyon Chocolate Factory

hen you have been the Flagstaff High School student body president, captain of the football and track teams, and a part of the school’s Governing Board, it’s not surprising that you would be in a business management position at age 19. For Grand Canyon Chocolate Factory Co-owner and Manager Tyler Stickler, starting a business and running it was an opportunity he couldn’t pass up. “I just wasn’t interested in going to college after high school,” said Stickler. “Then, my dad had this epiphany for a business so we sat down and came up with this idea to open a candy store at the gateway to the Grand Canyon. We opened right when COVID hit so business was a little slow, which we expected, but it picked up fast and we are doing surprisingly well.” Stepping into his new role, Stickler is in charge of sales but says he has his hand in every aspect of the business. He drives to Tusayan from his

home in Flagstaff every day. “I work from 9 in the morning until 9:45 at night.” “Tyler is a very kind and driven person,” said Sales Associate and Cashier Sophia Maragos. “I can’t wait to see how far he takes the business. He is so passionate about it.” Selling an abundance of treats, the lineup at Grand Canyon Chocolate Factory includes 15 different flavors of truffles, 18 types of fudge, 24 flavors of gelato, candy and caramel apples, and a large selection of trail mix and popcorn. “Our biggest seller is our Grand Canyon Crunch,” said Stickler. “It’s Rice Krispies on steroids,” he said. “It has marshmallows, white and dark chocolate, and peanut butter.” Stickler researched candy shops and says he is very proud of the selection he offers. Everything, except the gelato, is made on site. Stickler’s mother, Vicki, and other family members and friends help out. Continued on page 39

From left to right: Grand Canyon Chocolate Factory Co-Owner/Manager Tyler Stickler, Sales and Cashier Sophia Maragos and Co-Owner Patrick Stickler offer a wide variety of decadent treats. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

Meet Your Local Banking Experts: Tim Dodt Senior Director, Commercial Banking tdodt@alliancebankofarizona.com (928) 214-3402 Sherra Lyon Vice President, Commercial Banking slyon@alliancebankofarizona.com (928) 214-3410

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Flagstaff Business News // MARCH 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Looking Ahead to Better Days of Business

By Chris Pasterz

oney and business growth is out there, and it does grow on trees. As the pandemic wanes and the recession lingers, business owners of Coconino County are searching for new signs of returning business opportunities. This month’s article focuses in on the long dormant forestry industry, which is poised for major activity in coming years and decades. Now is the time to be preparing for forest industry business activity, with the long awaited logging contracts by the Forest Service, through the 4FRI (Four Forest Restoration Initiative), expected to be announced in June 2021. These contracts are a big deal, a very big deal, as in more than one million acres of selective logging to be completed in 20 years across the Coconino, Kaibab, Sitgreaves and Tonto National Forests. To put this in perspective, imagine 50,000 truckloads of logs, lumber and biomass being pulled out of the forest every year – this is 140 full truckloads, every day, for 20 years. This level of activity is necessary to mitigate the threat of catastrophic wildfire and devastating flooding that results, and preserve annual water catchment areas by

protecting our forest ecosystem. This massive level of activity brings with it tremendous opportunity for Coconino County businesses and workers. It is estimated that more than 1,000 jobs need to be created to support this work. Those jobs are solid paying careers, which range from saw machine operators to heavy equipment drivers, diesel mechanics to tractor trailer drivers. This skilled workforce is not available from local labor markets and large-scale training programs are underway. Coconino Community College is ramping up CDL Training Programs and Northern Arizona University’s Ecological Restoration Institute and School of Forestry, in partnership with Coconino County, are developing a Northern Arizona Forestry Operations Training Center. The opportunity is real and our major community institutions have been working together to create career pathways through local training opportunities for the hundreds of jobs needed. Let’s look at the business opportunities in a few more ways and unpack how the revival of a once-strong forestry industry can bring business to the region as a whole, starting with Opportunity Zones. The majority of the forested, private land that is

zoned for forestry (wood processing commercial activity) lies within a Designated Opportunity Zone. For those who don’t know what an Opportunity Zone is, it is a land area or census track that has been designated by state and federal bodies to have depressed economic activity and or economically disadvantage populations. In order to foster capital (business) investment into these distressed areas, a major tax relief system has been introduced, which essentially can eliminate capital gains taxes for those investing into Opportunity Zone Funds or Opportunity Zone Qualifying Businesses. The catch is that the OZ Qualifying Business or the OZ Funds must exist and operate in a Designated Opportunity Zone to be eligible for tax breaks. This is a good thing for the forestry industry in Coconino County, as much of the land is in Designated Opportunity Zones. Knowing this can make a major impact in where major business activities can be located. The Coconino Forest Restoration Initiatives Director Jay Smith has partnered with the Economic Development and Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping teams to share visually and publicly this important interplay of

eligible private land, proximity to major highways and Opportunity Zone boundaries. See the map online or download a high-resolution copy at coconino.az.gov/2083/Forest-Restoration. Click on the Forest Industry Parcel Analysis link. Let’s take a minute to think about the business opportunities that emerge as a result of forestry activity protecting our landscapes, homes and watersheds, and diversifying our economy. One resource that will exist ongoing is woody biomass, the small diameter branches, the pine needles, barks and woodchips. This is known as biomass and has many uses, ranging from bio-diesel, insulation, bio-char, erosion protection, heating fuel and processed wood products for the building industry. Private industry has developed hundreds of business models to capitalize on this resource. A simple search on “using biomass as fuel” will yield hundreds of business opportunities that can help to generate your business plans. Coconino County businesses are well positioned to learn from, adapt and adopt technologies that make money from forestry wood products. Let’s look at another dimension of opportunity that arises with hundreds more trucks and heavy equipment

being used to restore our forests. The need for parts, service shops, mobile mechanics and contracted operators and drivers will increase dramatically. The operations of the forestry industry do not run in isolation, but are rather an extension of the existing business community which fuels, services and sells to it. As a final thought to bring this business opportunity closer to you in the coming months, what pivot does your business need to do in order to benefit and make money off the trees? For those interested in the Coconino County Forestry Restoration Initiative, email Jay Smith at jsmith@ coconino.az.gov. To learn more about specific business opportunities, please feel free to connect with me by email or phone. FBN Chris Pasterz is the economic development manager for Coconino County. Pasterz can be reached at cpasterz@coconino.az.gov or 928-679-7134.

MARCH 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

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// MAYOR’S ADDRESS // BY PAUL DEASY

Keeping Up On Vaccinations, Affordable Housing, City Services

e’ve had a lot going on this month. I am happy to report that COVID-19 vaccinations have been opened to all 1B essential workers by Coconino County. With production ramping up, I am hopeful we will see an influx of more appointments at the same time as an influx of those who can now receive it. To learn more about the phased approach and to check for appointment times, please go to the Coconino County vaccination site at coconino.az.gov/covid19vaccine. Flagstaff City Council has approved reopening our outdoor fields starting April 1, with a limit of 50 people per field. This will allow all outdoor spring sports to begin with a limit to the number of spectators. Please continue to stay safe, wear a mask, bring your hand sanitizer and physically distance. I am honored to have been appointed to the executive board of the League of Cities and Towns and have been participating in the Greater Arizona Mayor’s Association to ad-

vocate for local control and align our common goals around many issues, including zoning for vacation rentals and autonomy in budget decisions. Flagstaff City Council recently approved the development agreement for Sky Cottages, a development of just more than 200 homes with 20 housing units for low-income individuals. It is fully electric, has solar panels, and is a model for economic and environmental efficiency. City Manager Greg Clifton has set up introductions at our weekly council meetings of all the city divisions so that the Flagstaff City Council and the public can better understand what it takes to make sure your water flows and garbage is picked up, and what great work is being done for affordable housing and much more. I urge everyone to take a look, particularly at IT Director CJ Perry’s presentation regarding ITS, broadband and the opportunities we have in the long run for smart city initiatives. This video recording can be found on our website under the Mayor and Council

tab from the City Council Work Session on Feb. 23. You will see why I am a strong advocate of this sector for increasing economic opportunities and reducing inequities in our community. In April, the Flagstaff City Council will be having a major budgeting session to determine our priorities and

allocations, and we’d like your input. Please email me at paul.deasy@flagstaffaz.gov and all of council at council@flagstaffaz. gov so we can hear your perspectives, ideas and approaches to deal with the city’s long-standing issues. FBN

er t t a M s n io t c A y M e h Enter t

E G N E L L A H PHOTO C Your actions really do matter, and we are awarding prizes to Flagstaff Locals recognizing their good deeds. Visit FLAGSTAFFLOCAL.COM and submit a photo or video demonstrating your “doing good” action and use #MyActionsMatter One winner will be randomly selected around April 1, 2021.

shop flagstaff

volunteer

be ec0-friendly

Donate

Facebook: facebook.com/Deasy4Flagstaff Twitter: @Deasy4Flagstaff Instagram: instagram.com/mayordeasy Paul Deasy is the mayor of Flagstaff.

I took the Pledge

THE MARCH PRIZE PACKAGE INCLUDES: • Guitar from AZ Music Pro • Satchmo’s Gift Certificate • Baked with Altitude Cookie Box • Nackard Pepsi 18oz. Pepsi Stainless Steel Bottle • Nackard Pepsi Co-Branded Shirt • Culver’s Gift Certificate • One free match of laser tag at Flag Tag AZ

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Flagstaff Business News // MARCH 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Hot Stone Massage: Ancient Therapy Proven Effective

By Mark Love

approaches. Furthermore, about 59 million Americans spend money out of pocket on complementary health approaches – to the tune of $30.2 billion a year. These figures reveal Americans value the health benefits of ancient therapies. One of the ancient therapies on the rise is the use of smooth stones. The use of stones and gemstones for healing purposes is diverse, dating back thousands of years. Many cultures are credited with the tradition of using hot stones for physical and spiritual purposes. These traditions include laying stones in patterns on the body, carrying or wearing stones for health and protection, using stones to diagnose and treat disease and for ceremonial uses such as in sweat lodges and medicine wheels.

rior to the 20th century, natural medicines and therapies were the only real medicines available. Within the last 100 years, science-based medicine has become the accepted model. Ancient practices were disregarded and were not part of standard medical care, also known as conventional or Western medicine. However, in the 1960s and ’70s, a new culture that embraced alternative, or non-Western, medicine began to emerge in the United States. Complementary Therapy, a term developed in the U.S. that means add value to or in addition to (not free), describes the relationship between non-mainstream (Eastern) practices and conventional (Western) medical care. Since that time, Complementary and Alternative Medicine has continued to gain popularity in the U.S. and has become more widely accepted in the medical community for the health and general wellness benefits offered. A recent National Health Interview Survey, an annual study in which tens of thousands of Americans answer questions about their health, revealed that approximately one-third of U.S. adults use complementary health AWD LAW for FBN 4 FIN.pdf

THE EMERGENCE OF HOT STONE MASSAGE

The modern-day stone massage was born in the U.S. The use of heated stones in massage was reborn in 1993 via LaStone Therapy, created by Mary Nelson. Since that time, stone massage has blossomed into an accepted therapy, especially when combined with massage. Through the years, the full-body hot stone massage has evolved to include deep tissue 1

3/1/21

work, facials, pedicures, manicures and meridian therapy.

HOW HOT STONE MASSAGE WORKS

The principle behind hot stone massage therapy is that the direct heat of the stones relaxes muscles, allowing the therapist access to the deeper muscle layers. The hot stones expand blood vessels, which encourage blood flow throughout the body. The stones also have a sedative effect that can relieve chronic pain, reduce stress and promote deep relaxation. The stones used in hot stone massage are usually basalt stones, which are smooth, natural stones polished over time by lying in rivers and streams. The stones are heated up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. After applying massage oil or lotion on the skin and, in most cases, a thin barrier between the stones in the massage area, the therapist gently glides the stones over the areas, using specific motion to enhance the therapeutic benefits. Stone massage, when done correctly, is one of the most relaxing forms of massage a person can receive. Massage therapists who are certified in stone therapy can significantly enhance the benefits of a full body

massage and help create lasting results, including relief from the pain associated with fibromyalgia, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome and other chronic conditions; decreased muscle pain, tension and spasms; and less chronic stress and tension. Massage Envy’s specially trained therapists adhere to strict protocols to ensure a pain-free, heart-, bodyand muscle-warming experience with lasting health benefits. While a hot stone massage is generally considered safe for most people when performed by a trained therapist or practitioner, it is not right for everyone. It is recommended to check with your

doctor prior to having a hot stone therapy session if you have any heart, vascular or autoimmune condition or are undergoing treatment for cancer or other chronic illness. 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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MARCH 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

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Conducting a Forensic Financial Analysis in Divorce Proceedings: Part 1 By Jenny Staskey

copies of bank and investment account statements, retirement plan statements, individual and business lmost everyone has heard divorce horror stories. For exam- tax returns, credit card statements, ple, during the divorce process, any loan applications (including personal financial statements) and the parties exchange financial information in what should be a transpar- an assortment of other documents ent process with full disclosure. Based (such as titles to motor vehicles and on this disclosure of assets and debts, real estate). Whether the parties the parties reach a settlement, or they have an attorney or not, it is wise to perform some due diligence when head to trial to have the assets and compiling the list of assets and debts. debts divided by the court. A year later, they learn that their spouse had For example, in a simple scenario where both employees are employed a pension plan that they didn’t know with no supplementary income from existed. Or, maybe there was a secret a business or rental property, one bank account as well as other assets might verify that the paychecks were accumulated during the marriage deposited into a disclosed account. If that were not disclosed. Another the employee is paid semi-monthly area of concern is when the parties and only one check is being depositsubmit what is called an Affidavit of ed, then this should be noted, since Financial Information to the court the possibility exists that the other and the numbers reported are not spouse is either cashing the check or accurate. Child support and spousal depositing it into another undismaintenance claims are often based on what is reported on this form. Un- closed account. Obviously, at times, derreporting of income can therefore the amount deposited may be less if the spouse obtained cash back at the adversely affect the dollar amount bank. awarded to a spouse in need. A review of paystubs is also So, what are some tricks of the helpful, in that most stubs show if trade? During the divorce process, it funds are being split between two is common for the parties to provide

bank accounts (such as savings and checking), or if there are funds contributed into a 401(k), Health Savings account or another plan that would be considered an asset during the divorce. Other deductions on a paystub should be reviewed for life insurance policies that may have a surrender value. Finally, (and some people do this, unfortunately), a spouse may over-withhold their federal and state taxes with the goal of receiving large refunds after the divorce and retaining those funds for themselves. Another tip for discovering undisclosed bank accounts is to review credit card statements. Monthly statements will indicate the date and amount of a payment. Those payments should be reflected on a bank statement that has been disclosed. If there are payments that cannot be traced to a known bank account, then this, too, is an area for further research. When the parties own a business, financial analysis becomes a bit more complicated. Often, the business pays for various expenses that are for the benefit of the owner. Examples include cell phones and monthly

cell phone bills, auto payments, auto insurance and fuel, travel and meals, clothing, retirement benefits, and health and life insurance. While the owner/employee may receive a W-2 (depending on the entity structure), their true income is often much more. Often, when completing the Affidavit of Financial Information, the owner/spouse reports the expenses listed above but fails to note that they are not personally paying for the expenses. If the business is set up as a sole proprietor and the spouse provides net income per the tax return as their personal income on the affidavit without properly disclosing the expenses that are paid for by the business, then this, too, is misleading. Of course, I have also seen expenses run through a business that should not have been for tax purposes. So, it is wise to closely review any profit and loss statement as well as the supporting documentation if those numbers will be used on an Affidavit of Financial Information. This includes a review of business bank and credit card statements as well as a detailed general

ledger. In some cases, a review of the actual receipt supporting the disbursement is necessary. In closing, the above tips are a starting point when performing due diligence during divorce proceedings. Stay tuned for Part Two! FBN Jenny Staskey, CPA, CFE, CDFA is employed by Aspey, Watkins & Diesel, PLLC as a forensic accountant in support of legal services. She can be reached at Jstaskey@ awdlaw.com.

Flagstaff Business News // MARCH 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Supporting the Community with Flagstaff Local Actions

By Meg Roederer

lagstaff Local is an ongoing community movement encouraging and celebrating residents that choose to support Flagstaff and shop, volunteer, be eco-friendly, donate, support education, mentor and vote. Flagstaff residents accomplish great things every single day. Take the pledge by signing up at flagstafflocal.com. It’s simple! N Log in to flagstafflocal.com. N Enter information: first and last name, email address, password. N Hit return – process completed. After you take the pledge, share all your good doings on your social platforms and tag ours at Twitter: @ flagstafflocal, Instagram: @flaglocal, Facebook: Flagstaff Local, Hashtags: #MyactionsMatter, #FlagstaffLocal. N Be eco-friendly: Purchase sustainable products, re-use and recycle, pick up trash when walking or

hiking, work with sustainability organizations on how to make your home or office eco-friendlier, choose to bike, carpool or take the bus. N Shop Flagstaff: Learn about local businesses and get to know the community members that work there, use local services, bank locally and support restaurants that source part or all of their product locally. N Support education: Assist and encourage students with virtual learning, read to kids and/or utilize library resources. N Donate: Drop-off items at Goodwill or non-perishable food items at the Flagstaff Family Food Center. N Vote: Register to vote, educate yourself about the candidates and issues, cast your vote in person or by mail. Choosing to shop Flagstaff has many benefits to residents. For

instance, a local purchase generates revenue that helps support parks and recreation, public safety, workforce and much more. Specifically, purchasing a cup of coffee from a neighborhood coffee house, or a vehicle from a Flagstaff dealership, directly results in collected taxes, which provide for better Flagstaff parks, beautification programs and much more. When residents engage and take part, it is making a difference and connecting what is loved about Flagstaff and living here with everyday actions. Flagstaff Citizen of the Year and volunteer Gene Munger said, “My most rewarding time is

reading to young children at our local schools, and if you have that opportunity, it will change your life forever.” City of Flagstaff Economic Vitality Director Heidi Hansen said, “It’s about the feeling you get when giving back to the community and that actions do matter. You love Flagstaff. We love Flagstaff. Let’s come together, take the pledge, and most importantly, share our actions, and be the city where people continue to visit, discover, grow and thrive.” To qualify for Flagstaff local rewards, residents must live within the Flagstaff Unified School District boundary and actions must occur within Flagstaff city limits. Flagstaff Local – My Actions Matter is brought to you by the City of Flagstaff to highlight the importance of keeping our collective actions local. FBN Meg Roederer is the Communications Specialist for Discovery Flagstaff.

NACA Encouraging Colorectal Cancer Screenings

ative Americans for Community Action (NACA) is calling on individuals to help make colorectal health a priority. The organization reports that as COVID-19 gripped the country, colorectal cancer screenings plummeted. “In 2021, it is estimated that 149,500 people will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer,” according to a NACA news release. During March, National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, NACA is planning the 2nd Annual NACA Colon Cancer Virtual 5k Run/Walk online. NACA also provides free FIT Kits, Fecal Immunochemical Test kits, to anyone 50 years old and older to screen for colorectal cancer. For more information on Colorectal Cancer Awareness and the importance of yearly screenings, visit the NACA Family Health Center. FBN

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MARCH 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

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Treating Hearing Loss in Children By Karon Lynn, Au.D.

e all know intuitively that you need hearing to learn traditional speech and language. If a child has a hearing loss, especially one that is not detected, the world is confusing and distorted. Imagine a mom telling her young child that it is bath time. If she does not have a bath towel in her hand or is not walking or pointing toward the bathroom, the little one may not understand what is going on. Or, think about parents sitting in the living room talking about going to the park and going out to lunch. When they stand up to get ready, they wonder why their little one is not excited to go when the other kids are getting their coats on.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF HEARING LOSS IN CHILDREN?

Undetected hearing loss may show up as confusion, stubbornness, moodiness, speech delay and difficulty learning. The child may be inattentive to activities unless they are expressly directed at them. They may get angry and frustrated with activities that require significant interaction with others. Put yourself in the child’s shoes: imagine playing with your toys

and suddenly someone is yelling that you aren’t playing with the others the way you should. What just happened? I am in trouble? All I was doing was playing with my toys! Social skills in the hearing impaired child do not develop the same as a normal hearing child. Hearing loss is not as evident as deafness; however, hearing loss is much more common than deafness. It is reported that two in 1,000 well babies are born with hearing loss and 24% to 46% of babies from the NICU (newborn intensive care unit) have hearing loss. Based on these figures, you can see that hearing loss is a significant issue facing children.

CAUSES OF HEARING LOSS

According to the American Speech and Hearing Association, some of the common causes of hearing loss in babies are: N Infections, such as rubella or herpes simplex virus N Premature birth N Low birth weight N Birth injuries N Drug and alcohol use while pregnant N Jaundice and Rh factor problems N Maternal diabetes

N High blood pressure while pregnant N Reduced oxygen to the baby during pregnancy N Genetics

speakers in the room that mimic wearing headphones. The child does not even know they are being tested. It is just a little room with cartoon videos playing.

Causes for hearing loss in children are commonly from: N Ear infections N Ototoxic drugs (medicine that damages the auditory system) N Meningitis N Measles N Encephalitis N Chickenpox N Influenza N Mumps N Head injury N Noise exposure

TREATMENT FOR HEARING LOSS

TESTING FOR HEARING LOSS

Today, most babies get a hearing test prior to leaving the hospital when they are born. For home births, a hearing test can be scheduled as an outpatient with an audiologist. A screening test is completed first; then, if there is any question about the hearing, a diagnostic test is ordered. The test is quick and completely painless. For young children, the test is completed in a small room while the child sits in the caregiver’s lap. The sound comes from special

If a hearing loss is confirmed, the baby or child will be sent to an ENT to rule out hearing loss caused from middle ear fluid. If the hearing loss is determined to be caused by damage to the hearing nerves, then hearing aids are ordered. Today, hearing aids are much more comfortable and have a more natural sound than in years past. The secret to having the best outcome for the child is early hearing aid use. The earlier the better. The more exposure to sound at the earliest possible age gives the child the best chance of learning speech, language and the necessary social skills to keep up with their peers. I have fit hearing aids on babies as young as four weeks. In addition to hearing aids, it is important to enroll the child in speech therapy as quickly as possible. Again, we are racing against the clock and need to expose that beautiful little brain to as much sound and learning

opportunity as possible, as young as possible. The brain learns speech easiest prior to the age of two. You would be amazed at the amount of learning a child does when playing around the house. We want to take advantage of every single opportunity to learn. A speech pathologist will teach the caregivers how to expose the child to the best speech opportunities and will work with the child so they understand how to produce sounds. A team approach with an audiologist, speech pathologist and the caregivers is imperative to ensure the best opportunity for a successful outcome. 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.

Flagstaff Business News // MARCH 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Hard-Working Service Dogs Improving Lives Trainers, owners express frustration with those who pass off pets as service animals

By Bonnie Stevens, FBN

or the first time in her life, Nannette Oatley Johnson has a service dog. Winchester, or Winnie, is a 75-pound, 2-year-old “goldador” – half golden retriever, half Labrador – that has been in training since she was a puppy. Winnie opens doors for Johnson, pulls her through grocery stores and can even pick things up that Johnson may have dropped, like her cell phone, although it may be covered with saliva and scratched up a bit when Johnson gets it back. The author and motivational speaker calls herself “a sit-down person in a stand-up world.” An athlete all her life and top gymnast as a teenager, Johnson’s life changed dramatically when at age 22 a snow-tubing accident left her a quadriplegic. She ultimately gained back the use of her hands and arms, gave birth to three children post injury, and returned

to athletic competition winning the 2001 U.S. Open Wheelchair Singles and Doubles Championship titles. Now, at age 61, Johnson can feel the strain of an active life in her joints and she’s happy to have a little help from her service dog. “The greatest thing is when I’m going to the soccer fields to watch my grandson and granddaughter. Winnie helps pull me across cement, dirt and grass. She has a handle on her harness. I grab the handle, and away we go!” Together with Debbie Lipely, Prescott’s Pawsitively Awesome Dog Trainer, Johnson is teaching Winnie how to assist her with more tasks. “I’m a dog lover and I’ve always had dogs as companions. But I just had no idea how smart dogs were and what services they can perform for people,” said Johnson. “It’s brought me so much joy knowing she is there for me, to serve and not just love me. It’s like I went on a journey with her in the last couple of years and that

Julie Mumford says her service dog, Willow, alerts her before she faints. Courtesy photo

alone has been life-changing to work with her. And it is work!” Lipely says true service animals are life-changing to the people they help, but there is great confusion around what constitutes a service animal versus a therapy or emotional support animal, and what rights they have. “There is no such thing as a certified service dog,” she said. “So, it seems everyone makes their own rules. ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) doesn’t recognize anything and there’s a lot of chaos surrounding the issue.” Moran Henn, owner of Above and Beyond Dog Training and Pet Care for more than 20 years who received her dog training as a corporal in the Israeli Air Force, agrees. “There’s no real way to regulate it. You don’t have any certifying entities that determine whether your dog is or is not a service dog, so the problem is anybody can say it is. Some people do go through very professional trainers or organizations that train service dogs. But, technically, you can train your own service dog. This creates a lot of issues for handlers of service dogs, trainers, businesses, government offices, etc.” Henn says individuals who blur the lines between actual working service animals and pets with owners who want to bring them along on their outings are causing a disservice to people with disabilities. “The issue now is they are not believed.” Julie Mumford, a Prescott veterinarian technician, finds this behavior frustrating. “A lot of these dogs are not socialized correctly. They put other people in danger. And it’s not fair to those who have put the time and money into training their animals. It’s a lot of work, especially for seeing-eye dogs, it’s really super intense training.” Mumford suffers from a condition called “syncopal disorder,” which causes her to black out. Her fainting episodes began to increase a couple of years ago and she has suffered concussions because of it. So, now, she lives with a golden retriever named Willow, a service dog who alerts her

Pawsitively Awesome Dog Trainer Debbie Lipely works with her service dog, Cooper. Courtesy photo

before she’s about to lose consciousness. “I don’t know when it’s going to happen. There’s no warning. I can hit my head and injure myself, but Willow can detect it ahead of time. She alerts me to it and I’m able to sit down.” The 43-year-old Mumford says Willow is a vital part of her life and her co-workers feel more comfortable when Willow is around as well. “She’ll mouth my hand to alert me. If I ignore her, she’ll get more persistent. She’ll jump on me or whine if I’m ignoring her. She’ll get to the point of barking at me.” Mumford says Willow works hard. “We’re asking a lot of these animals and it’s mentally difficult.” Lipely, Henn Johnson and Mumford all emphasize the word “work” when they talk about service animals.

And that is an important distinction for businesses and pet owners to understand when it comes to service animals. “The term ‘service dog’ is a dog that is specifically trained to conduct a task – that assists a person with a disability. So the key is an animal that is ‘trained to perform a task,’” said Henn. “The task can be everything from a very elaborate seeing eye dog that does a thousand tasks, like stopping before crossing the street and waiting for a closed door to open, to a service dog that’s just trained to put its paw on your thigh to create pressure, lick you, create a barrier between you and somebody else, turn on lights, pull a wheelchair or pick up something off the floor.” Henn notes that service animals don’t have to just be dogs, noting Continued on page 27

MARCH 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

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Support Limited for Suffering Cats and Dogs Red Rock Inspiration looking forward to hosting fundraising events

By Bonnie Stevens, FBN

lowed throughout the pandemic, but not forgotten, the goal at Red Rose Inspiration for Animals continues to remain top of mind for the founder. Since 2009, Tina Allegrezza has been working to help animals through emotional or physical issues, plus paying for medical and dental care through her non-profit organization. Her ultimate objective has been to create a spay and neuter clinic and rehabilitation center and animal sanctuary in Sedona, while being able to help pet owners in the community who can’t afford to take their dogs and cats to the vet. However, a year of social distancing with COVID-19 has posed challenges for her to be able to recruit volunteers and host fundraising events that support the efforts. In the past, most of the funding has come through arts and crafts shows, Red Rose Shows, in Sedona – the fee for booth space paid by art vendors goes to Red Rose Inspiration. But in the last year, those events have been canceled or significantly reduced because of regulations regarding public gatherings. So, currently, the bulk of Red Rose Inspiration support comes from a total of six volunteers and sales from two thrift stores at the Village of Oak Creek Bell Rock Plaza. “The Red Rose Thriftique looks like a high-end boutique,” she said. Items include clothing (for humans) and shoes, artwork, jewelry and home décor. It’s been described as an upscale department store setting with thrift store prices. Two doors down is the Red Rose Barkin Basement. “That really is a thrift store,” she said. Meanwhile, Red Rose Inspiration has continued to operate an active TNR (Trap, Neuter, Release) feral cat program, mostly in Camp Verde. “We have two active volunteers in the field and we take in kittens that are young enough to be adopted and socialized and then adopt them out.” Allegrezza says feral cats are considered a nuisance and treated badly. “It’s a pretty big problem in Camp Verde, worse than ever last year.” Red Rose Inspiration works with the Camp Verde Marshal’s Office to trap the wild cats. “They overpopulate an area. You can have hundreds of cats in no time if they aren’t neutered and spayed. People are not nice to them and take matters into their own hands by drowning them in the river or poisoning them,” she said. “We’re lucky if we can get kittens when they are really young and we

Tina Allegrezza created Red Rose Inspiration for Animals as a tribute to her dog, Rosey, a rottweiler/pit-bull mix rescue. Courtesy photos

Red Rose Shows help raise money for the non-profit.

Thrift shops in the Village of Oak Creek benefit animals in need.

can get them adopted into homes where they can live indoors.” Allegrezza moved to Sedona from New York City in 2005 with her partner and their rottweiler/pit-bull mix, Rosey. Two years later, Rosey was diagnosed with bone cancer. “She had to be put down and when she died, I got into a bad funk,” said Allegrezza. “She was a rescue pup herself. Rosey was always sweet and sympathetic to dogs that were suffering with emotional problems. She would provide them comfort and help them to grow their confidence. She had worked with various other dogs to help rehabilitate them emotionally. I’ve lost plenty of dogs in the past, but not like her.” Thus, in 2009, Allegrezza started Red Rose Inspiration to give back to animals as a legacy to Rosey. “One of our goals is to stop the pet over-population in our community. Our primary focus for proceeds raised from our events is for the planning stages for our rehabilitation center and sanctuary for animals.” Upcoming Red Rose Shows are scheduled for most weekends this month, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Olde Sedona Bar and Grill. For more information or to make a donation, visit redroseinspiration.org. FBN

Much of the funding for the non-profit organization comes from community events such as art shows.

Red Rose Inspiration has a busy feral cat program.

Flagstaff Business News // MARCH 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Does Your Horse Have a Drinking Problem?

By Cheyenne Brown

re you one of the many horse owners who worries about your horse lacking hydration during the winter months? Keeping your horse hydrated is crucial, especially during the cold spells that can make drinking uncomfortable and unappealing to your equine pals. Not drinking enough can lead to serious issues like dehydration and impaction – a blockage in your horse’s intestine, caused usually by masses of feed or sand/dirt. In short, not having enough water reduces the moisture in your horse’s gut that would typically assist in digesting these things smoothly. There are a lot of ways to circumvent crises like impaction colic and dehydration. Ensuring your horse always has access to clean, fresh water is paramount – but what else can you do?

MONITOR WATER INTAKE

This can be difficult in places where horses’ primary water intake happens through automated watering systems. If I am worried about water consumption, I will make sure I can monitor exactly how much my horse is drinking. This may mean I will

have to disconnect automatic systems and provide a different way for my horse to get water that I can fill regularly and see just how much water he is drinking.

HEATED WATERERS

There are several options available to keep water at a pleasant temperature to prevent the unappealing piercing cold water that horses will stay away from. Heating elements are available for large tanks, and there are also smaller buckets that come with elements that will keep the contents warm.

SALT, ELECTROLYTES AND FLAVORS

Having salt and mineral blocks close to your horse’s water source will often encourage drinking. Some people even put a small amount of flavored sports drink in their horse’s water to however, the nutritional value is add flavor and electrolytes. questionable, and such a sudden change in diet can sometimes cause ADD MOISTURE TO DIET colic. I have heard it recomAdding wet feed to your horse’s diet mended that simply adding also is a great way to supplement moisture. Soaking hay, beet pulp and/ water to regular grain can be better than adding the or pelleted food can be an effective warm bran mash. way to “feed wet.” A lot of people The importance of like to add warm bran mash to their horse’s diet, specifically in the winter; water intake in cold months

is obvious. Educating yourself on ways to ensure your horse is staying hydrated and healthy is critical. If you have special circumstances or questions, contact your veterinarian. FBN Cheyenne Brown is the marketing manager for Olsen’s Grain.

// There are a lot of ways to circumvent crises like impaction colic and dehydration. Ensuring your horse always has access to clean, fresh water is paramount – but what else can you do? //

MARCH 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

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SERVICE DOGS continued from page 24

that monkeys have the ability to handle tasks like helping an owner brush their teeth. Service animals are allowed to go wherever the person they are helping goes, and training one can cost up to $20,000. She says service dogs are not emotional support animals, which are animals that put people at ease or make them feel better. They are not therapy dogs either, which might be found with volunteers in nursing homes, libraries and hospitals. “They are not performing any tasks, they are just friendly and only need basic training,” said Henn. As Lipely stresses, service animals must be invisible. “They‘re supposed to be there for the person, not supposed to even acknowledge another dog. If they are distracted from their handler, they are not actually doing their job.” And that’s when Henn says businesses can send an animal and its owner on their way. “Businesses trying to do the right thing don’t have to allow dogs or other animals in that are not well behaved. And people attending any kind of business have the right not to be disturbed by a pet,” she said. “A dog wearing a service dog vest should not grab a sandwich from a kid standing in line. A dog should not be whining, barking, growling or jumping. If an animal is creating a nuisance, the behavior should be documented to protect the business owner.” Forcing the issue recently have been airlines. In recent years, they’ve received far more complaints about animals allowed on flights than ever before – animals like squirrels, peacocks, small horses and iguanas. In December 2020, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) announced revisions to its Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). The final rule defines a service animal as a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability. DOT no longer considers an emotional support animal to be a service animal. In addition, the new DOT rule allows airlines to require people flying with a service animal to fill out a special form up to 48 hours in advance of travel. They’ll also be allowed to require that a service animal fit within its handler’s foot space on the plane. Business owners confused about the rules have the legal right to ask what specific task the animal performs, but may not ask about the disability. Lipely advises her clients to carry a doctor’s note explaining the need for the service animal. She also makes herself available by phone if a client needs her to explain the situation. As for the hard-working service animals, both Johnson and Mumford say their dogs know that when the vest comes off, they are no longer on the job. “When her equipment is off, we call her ‘Wild Winnie,’” said Johnson. “I’ve seen her jump over an end table from the couch. She’s allowed to be all dog, all puppy, all fun and all wild.”

If you would like to advertise in the FBN Pet News Call Ann at 928-420-4407 or email ann@flagstaffbusinessnews.com or call DMK at 928-460-4330 or email DMK@flagstaffbusinessnews.com

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How Can You Improve Your Credit Score?

By Paula Gilbert

our credit score is used by financial institutions and lenders to determine how much money you may borrow for a loan or credit card. A higher credit score may mean lower interest rates and better credit limits, while a low score could mean you get denied for credit. What does your score mean, and how do lenders – and even landlords and employers – use it to determine their decision? Here’s how.

YOUR CREDIT SCORE IS CALCULATED BASED ON SEVERAL FINANCIAL FACTORS.

Credit scores are based on your credit report – a history of what you’ve borrowed, how you’ve paid your debt and more. Five factors are considered for your score: N Payment history – do you make all payments on time, or have you missed a few here and there? This accounts for 35% of your credit score. N Credit utilization – a ratio of how much credit you’re using to how much overall revolving credit you have. For example, if you have one credit card with a $10,000 limit and

your balance on that card is $2,000, your credit utilization would be 20%. Credit utilization makes up 30% of your score. N Age of credit – an average “age” of your credit accounts. If you had a mortgage for 10 years and a credit card for two, your average age of credit would be 6 years. Age of credit makes up 15% of your score. N Credit mix – the types of accounts you have, like credit cards, student loans, auto loans and mortgages. This is about 10% of your score. N Credit inquiries – the number of “hard” inquiries to your credit. Hard inquiries are made when

you apply for credit and the lender checks, or “pulls,” your credit. Inquiries make up 10% of your credit score.

CREDIT SCORES ARE USED TO PREDICT YOUR LOAN REPAYMENT HABITS.

If you pay all your bills on time and keep your accounts open for several years, you’re likely to be considered a safe bet for lenders. On the other hand, if you miss several payments on other loans, lenders may not want to risk extending credit to you in case you decide not to repay them. It’s not just banks and credit unions that look at your score. Next time you consider applying for a store credit card or financing a large furniture

// If you pay all your bills on time and keep your accounts open for several years, you’re likely to be considered a safe bet for lenders. On the other hand, if you miss several payments on other loans, lenders may not want to risk extending credit to you in case you decide not to repay them. //

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or electronics purchase, they’ll check your credit, too.

POTENTIAL LANDLORDS AND EMPLOYERS MAY CHECK YOUR CREDIT.

When you apply for a new job, you may be asked to consent to a credit check. Your potential employer will look at things like late payments, the amount of debt you have, and other indicators that may tell them whether you are responsible with your money. Employers do this to look for red flags that might indicate whether you are more likely to commit theft or fraud. Likewise, a potential landlord may look at similar indicators to determine if you are likely to pay your rent on time. You can raise your credit score with three simple steps. Worried about a low credit score? Boost it by focusing on the big factors – payment history, credit utilization and age of credit. N Prioritize your loan payments – like credit cards, auto loans, mortgages and student loans – as late payments will negatively impact your score and will stay on your credit report for seven years.

N Keep your credit utilization below 30%. As you get close to 100%, focus on making bigger payments to your credit cards to lower your utilization. N Paid off a credit card? Congratulations! Don’t close the account, though – doing so may drop your age of credit. Keep it open, even if you’re not using the card. FBN

Paula Gilbert is the branch manager for OneAZ Credit Union’s Flagstaff branch. OneAZ offers a full suite of financial services, including Benefits Checking. This checking account offers credit monitoring with alerts whenever a change is made to your credit file. It also includes exclusive loan discounts, credit monitoring with alerts, identity theft restoration, dark web monitoring with alerts and dividends – all for just $5 a month. To learn more, visit OneAZcu.com/Checking.

MARCH 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

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Strong Short-Term Rental Market Expected to Continue

By Amber Welsch

can be a daunting endeavor, but if you think you would find enjoyment and financial benefit from this expanding market, here are some basic steps to follow:

he short-term rental market in Flagstaff is big business as families take more vacations to areas they can easily drive to and where they can spend time in nature. N Work with an experienced real estate agent. In your search for your The adventure travelers also find perfect vacation rental, a real estate what they’re looking for in Flagstaff’s agent who is experienced with the biking, climbing, running and skiing market, investment properties and scenes. Whether traveling here for the regulations will prove priceless first time or fifth time, vacationers in the process of finding and love to stay in short-term vacation purchasing your new endeavor. Or, rentals (STRs) in neighborhoods that maybe you already own a property enhance the local feel of their stay. or properties that you would like Many Flagstaff neighborhoods to convert to short-term rentals. A have STRs already and travel trends good property manager will help forecast for the post-COVID climate you figure out the details. indicate there will continue to be demand for STRs as people change N Do your research. Appealing to the way they travel and vacation. A tourists can take many forms: some connection to family and nature are people like to be downtown and most important to people traveling, able to walk to restaurants and othas well as opportunities for outdoor er local attractions. Others may deactivities. This can be an opportunity sire quiet and solitude away from for locals who love Flagstaff and want crowds and tourist areas. Consider to share the lifestyle with others as what you think would be the best well as for those who want to benefit fit for what you want to provide financially from the growing demand. your guests and dive into Airbnb How does one finance, purchase and VRBO websites to evaluate and operate a short-term rental? This

what is already out there. How are these properties doing? What do the vacancy rates look like? These sites and others such as AirDNA and Mashvisor provide analytics of the local short-term market and will also help with pricing. Consult with local property management companies to determine if your potential STR will provide cash flow. N Determine if you want to have a large or small STR. A large STR will bring in more money and potentially increase your return on investment, however there may be more wear and tear on the property and more complaints from neighbors, as the bigger homes attract larger groups who are coming together to celebrate. A smaller home may not reap the big monthly income; however, it may be easier to manage since only a family, a couple, or a few friends will be staying. N Figure out if you are going to manage the property yourself or hire someone to do it. If you are going to do the bookings, manage-

ment, problem solving, cleaning and maintenance yourself, consider whether the time it takes is worth the money you’ll be saving. Property management companies typically charge 10% to 35% of the rental income, depending on how much they manage and what services they provide. Finding a reliable cleaning crew can be one of the most challenging parts of managing your STR, according to Blue Door Properties owner Mary Jane Morse, as well as meeting guest expectations with amenities provided.

may be called to the 24/7 short-term rental hotline number: 928-7147951 or via an online complaint form: https://lodging.munirevs.com/ complaint/?cityid=532. Information submitted will be forwarded to the STR operator’s emergency contact for a response and City of Flagstaff staff will take follow-up action as needed. The information will be stored in a centralized database to resolve conflicts and measure the impacts of STRs. Stay healthy and prosperous, Flagstaff! FBN

Make your STR special with neutral colors that appeal to many, new quality furniture, comfortable beds and linens, a well-appointed kitchen and add some local flare. Register your STR with the city via the website: ShortTermRental@flagtsaffaz.com. A City Ordinance from December 2020 requires all STRs to be registered here and provide an owner’s contact information. Any complaints from neighbors about the STR

Amber Welsch is a sales associate on The Mary Mendoza Team at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. She is a 20-year resident of Flagstaff and a native Arizonan. She can be reached @ amber.welsch@ russlyon.com or 928-607-9566.

Flagstaff Business News // MARCH 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Trudging Along the Road to Happy Destiny with Back2Basics I didn’t realize how much I had lost until I felt how much I’ve gained,” said Brad J, a Back2Basics alumnus. Our journey began in May of 2010. Back2Basics has now completed, and is proudly celebrating, seven years of Sober Living here in Flagstaff. B2B is a six-month adventure recovery program for young men struggling with substance abuse issues and are looking for a positive, meaningful life. The uniqueness of Back2Basics lies in the fact that it is a hybrid of outdoor adventure therapy and traditional residential programming. The outdoor activities include hiking, backpacking, kayaking, rock climbing, skiing and so much more. The in-town residential program looks to develop and strengthen life skills through classes and groups that focus on culinary skills, nutrition, self-care, home maintenance, proper exercise, martial arts, yoga, mindful meditation, clinical therapy and various therapeutic activities. The community at Back2Basics

creates a sense of camaraderie and safety that allows B2B participants to be present in their new life experiences without drugs and alcohol. Through this peer-driven culture, they develop a renewed sense of self. This leads to elevated self-confidence and improved life skills. These improved life skills empower the residents to make healthy life decisions, build and maintain appropriate relationships, learn how to step out of their comfort zone and face their fears. This is all done while they are receiving the emotional and structured support necessary to help them stay on the road to long-term success. It’s been an amazing journey these last seven years. We have had personal and programmatic growth with added depth. Our core values and dedicated staff have been the driving force for our positive outcomes and ongoing success. It’s clear that the long-term treatment recovery model provides the foundation needed for young adults with addiction struggles. This alternative approach to rehab and substance

are cleared and they learn ways to defeat old addictive thinking patterns through various outdoor adventures. FBN

Roy DuPrez is the owner and founder of Back2Basics. Back2Basics is an adventure recovery program, up to six months, for young adult males ages 18-30 with substance abuse issues looking for a positive and meaningful life. In our program, clients are exposed to a weekly combination of both wilderness adventures and residential programming. For more information, visit back2basicsoutdooradventures.com, call 928-814-2220 or email rduprez@b2badventures.com.

abuse recovery has given Back2Basics an extremely high success rate. Back2Basics is dedicated to providing the personnel with professional expertise and a concrete infrastructure to combat drug and alcohol addiction – both essential to the longterm transformation of our residents into self-sustaining, sober men. Back2Basics Outdoor Adventure

THANK YOU For Voting Us as Best of Business Orthopedic Center At Flagstaff Bone & Joint, we are committed to providing our patients with exceptional orthopaedic care, and we are honored to have been recognized by the communities we serve as Best of Business Orthopedic Center. We promise to continue our commitment to offering orthopaedic excellence at our state-of-the-art locations as well as at our Same-Day Appointments & Walk-Ins clinic.

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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

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MARCH 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

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Five Supplements for Joint Health

By Amber Belt, ND

f you’ve read my articles in Flagstaff Business News before or you follow me on social media, you know that I love helping people get healthy, get moving and get out of pain. A good number of patients I see in my office have joint pain from osteoarthritis. Since osteoarthritis is the most prevalent joint disease, I’m sure a lot of readers can relate! Osteoarthritis can prevent people from moving like they want to. Life gets less fun and less convenient if you have pain opening jars, chewing food, reaching up to wash your hair, walking or getting up and down off the floor to play with kids or animals. But, there’s a lot that you can do to promote healthier joints, regain joint function and have less joint pain. For this article, I’m going to focus on supplements for joint health, but I cannot fail to mention a few baseline health points that must be in order for your joints to feel good. Keeping your baseline health in order also gives supplements their best chance at being effective. N Diet. What you eat matters A LOT, and eating a diet that is rich in a variety of vegetables, fruits and

protein sources will promote joint health. Processed foods, fast food and sugar-filled foods and drinks will only contribute to arthritis pain. N Movement. A joint in motion tends to stay in motion. If you stop moving a joint because it hurts, it may become more difficult to move that joint as time goes on. If joints hurt when you move them, it’s a good idea to see a physical therapist or personal trainer for movements that are therapeutic, build strength and reduce pain. N Weight. Carrying extra weight on your frame can aggravate joint pain, and adipose (fatty) tissue can promote inflammation in the body. Arthritic joints will be more painful when they are carrying a heavier load or if they are inflamed. If you need extra help getting your joints healthy, supplements can play a role in reducing joint pain and helping to keep cartilage within the joint healthy. Here are five of my favorites! N Collagen. There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that taking collagen orally can help the

chondrocytes (cells that produce cartilage in a joint) improve their function. And according to research, taking collagen orally improves the symptoms associated with osteoarthritis, too. Some studies show improvement in osteoarthritis symptoms with a dose of collagen as low as 10mg per day!

to the chondrocytes and increases osteoarthritis risk. I find that patients generally need 10-30mg of zinc per day with food. N MSM. MSM is otherwise known as methylsulfonylmethane, which is why we call it MSM! It’s an organosulfur compound that is found in food, but taking it as a supplement can provide joint pain relief. MSM has been found to decrease the joint pain, stiffness and swelling associated with osteoarthritis. The ideal dose is based on the individual, but studies show that a dose of three grams twice per day can be effective.

N Vitamin C. This vitamin is essential to the creation of collagen in our bodies. Vitamin C intake has been linked to less cartilage loss and less incidence of osteoarthritis. It shows the most promise for symptomatic relief in early osteoarthritis, but on a cellular level, almost all folks with arthritis N Vitamin D. Deficiency of Vitamin can benefit from extra Vitamin C. D has been well documented in Research shows a wide range of its link to cartilage degeneration. effective doses (2,000-6,000mg per With Vitamin D deficiency, cartiday) for Vitamin C, so ask your lage cannot repair itself and that’s doc about the dosage that will work what can lead to degeneration of best for you. a joint (osteoarthritis). The good news is that Vitamin D, when N Zinc. A deficiency of this mineral it is at sufficient levels in may prevent chondrocytes from the body, could help functioning optimally. That’s bad cartilage regenerate. Benews because chondrocytes are cause Vitamin D is a fat the cells that produce cartilage in soluble vitamin and can the joint. The oxidative damage be toxic at high doses, that can occur when there is a zinc you should get your levels deficiency is what causes damage

checked so that your doctor can be precise about dosing if you are deficient. This is by no means an exhaustive list of vitamins, minerals and nutrients that can be effective in the treatment of osteoarthritis. There are many herbs, too, that can alleviate joint pain and improve joint function. There are so many, in fact, that it’s difficult to make broad recommendations in the context of an article. I like to prescribe herbal formulas based on the individual patient As we move into the summer months, I hope you can find a way to get your joints to a place where they are less painful and function better. We love living in Flagstaff because of its gorgeous outdoor spaces and I want you to be able to get out there and enjoy! 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.

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AMANGIRI continued from page 8

that guests also expect impeccable first-class service and privacy. Marazita often works with their personal assistants and agents long before they arrive in anticipation of their culinary desires. He considers Amangiri’s menus to be “guidelines” and calls the meals “chef-driven,” meaning he can create and recreate after visiting with his guests at their tables in person. Marazita relocated to Page with his family four years ago, after being recruited by someone who had worked with him at a leading hotel in San Francisco. “It’s important at this level to be well-rounded,” he said, “to understand different cultures and cuisines such as sushi, Indian, Asian and Italian food – and be a master of everything. Our specialty would be a play on Native American flavors with global accents.” In any one presentation, he may offer chile-rubbed and crusted wild elk loin with pickled cactus buds alongside sustainably harvested Maine lobster in a Navajo blue corn juniper ash polenta. Marazita designed the Amangiri Spirit of the Journey four-course menu, which features ingredients procured through Southwestern American Indian communities including Navajo, Hopi, Pima, Maricopa, Akimel O’Odham and Paiute tribes. “It starts off with a course called ‘k’os,’ which in Navajo translates to ‘flight.’ So, the salad is a little play on a

nest. It’s a spin on a classic French nest salad, a lardon, but done with more native ingredients. We use saguaro cactus seeds, mesquite smoked duck breasts, we’ll do a Gila River citrus vinaigrette, we’ll have a nice poached hen’s egg on top and then finish it with some sweet potato twigs, so it represents a nest.” The entre is called “dzeh kayenta,” or “hunters pit” in Navajo. Each course comes with a story. “Food is an adventure, an experience,” he said. “It should burn a memory. Every meal should be something important.” As should be every visit to Amangiri, says Surget, from the 25,000-squarefoot spa with private cold plunge pool and sensory deprivation flotation chamber to the high desert trail system that stretches across 12 remote miles to reveal sweeping vistas, centuries-old petroglyphs and a cave that sheltered nomadic prehistoric civilizations. Rock climbing exercises offer a nod to the via feratta of World War I, a pathway created by wire bolted into cliff faces that helped Italian soldiers cross the Dolomites. “Within the property, we offer e-bike, horseback riding and hiking tours,” says Surget. Beyond that, activities may include exploring cliff dwellings of the Navajo National Monument and kayaking, fishing, paddle-boarding or boating on Lake Powell. Surget and his family moved from Washington, D.C., where he was the

Executive Chef Anthony Marazita combines global cuisine with Native American tastes of the Southwest. His stories and descriptions enhance the experience with exotic local flavor. Courtesy photo

food and beverage director at the historic Hay-Adams hotel that overlooked the White House. “We’re constantly looking for dinosaur tracks. You can see fault lines as a result of tectonic plates shifting. Everywhere you look is a constant reminder of time, scale and the inhabitants that came before you. It’s very refreshing to be in awe and admiration of the environment. After some time here, you’re priorities start to shift. We have noticed guests have a

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sadness about them when it is time for them to leave.” In this grand theater of nature, Amangiri features 34 modernistic suits. Camp Sarika, an addition to the site that opened in 2020, offers 10 tented pavilions. Although Amangiri has existed for 11 years, management suspects there may never have been a more pressing need for drivable destinations where people can reconnect to the outdoors,

and family and friends can make up for time together, lost during the pandemic. “The days here are spent with a healthy balance of excitement and spa treatment,” said Surget. “We offer a little hiatus in life to rebalance and recenter through wellness, a beautiful environment, adventures, great dining and a realignment with your own soul.” FBN

MARCH 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

Seven Mindfulness Tips to Reduce Stress, Anxiety By Christina Kovalik, NMD,LAc

short. Their posture may also be closed off, not allowing the chest to be fully open. When a person is laughing, they uddhist monks have been pracare breathing from the belly and their ticing meditation and mindshoulders move up and down. When fulness for centuries and more a person is angry or shouting, they are and more people are starting to use breathing from above the diaphragm. mindfulness daily to reduce stress and When they are weeping, they are anxiety. Mindfulness and meditation hunched over and breathing from the practices can teach you how to be fully top of the lungs. Emotions can be better present in the moment. Practicing managed by being aware of the emomindfulness during day-to-day activities can be very meditative. A simple act tional/physical connection between the like washing the dishes, taking a walk in breath and the posture. Meditation and mindfulness assist the mind, body and nature, gardening or daily chores can spirit to relax. give you an opportunity to focus on You can do guided meditations, being fully present and using the breath put on beautiful calming music or to clear the mind chatter. use drumming to help you reach the You can tell a lot about a person’s “meditation gap.” The gap is the space emotional state by their breath and between the conscious mind and the their posture. When a person is unconscious mind. It is the space where anxious, their breaths are shallow or

// The gap is the space between the conscious mind and the unconscious mind. It is the space where you feel light, like you could float away. You no longer are aware of your body. Nothing matters except where you are in the moment. You feel peaceful and relaxed. //

you feel light, like you could float away. You no longer are aware of your body. Nothing matters except where you are in the moment. You feel peaceful and relaxed. It is normal for your mind to wander during meditation. Simply allow thoughts to float in and float out. Don’t focus on the thoughts or worry about them cluttering your mind.

SEVEN MINDFULNESS TIPS: 1. 2.

3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Counting your breath Reciting mantras/empowering words Focusing on the flame of a candle Coloring a mandala Listening to guided meditations Walking meditations Gratitude shower

Counting your breath: Focusing on the breath-inhale for a count of eight and exhaling to a longer count of 16 calms the nervous system and helps maintain present moment awareness. Do a few minutes of counted breathing to reduce stress, anxiety or overwhelm. It can be done with your eyes closed or open. It can be used while sitting in thick traffic or during a stressful event. It reduces the release of cortisol, the stress-promoting hormone.

Mantras/Empowering words: Stating mantras or empowering words out loud (chanting) or to yourself helps you to focus on the present moment and to reach the meditation gap. For example, “Inhale peace, exhale calm,” or “Inhale love, exhale light.”

Flame gazing: Focus on the flame and breathe. Just like sitting next to a cozy, mesmerizing fire, focusing on the flame of the candle can help you be more present.

Coloring mandalas: There are many mandala coloring books out there. The Buddist monks use colored sand to hand-make mandalas as part of their meditation practice. It is very calming and the final outcome is beautiful.

Guided meditation: During this kind of meditation, you listen to a person take you through a series of relaxation exercises for the mind. There are many different apps available, from stress relief to help with sleep.

Walking meditations or nature walks: Walking meditations on a labyrinth (geometric path), or out in a peaceful forest, beach or

mountain is very good for the soul. Focus on the outdoor sounds, the scenery and your breath.

Gratitude Shower: Close your eyes and focus on all the things you are grateful for in this life. Allow the gratitude to radiate out from your heart and expand outward. This can take as little as two to five minutes. If you find yourself anxious and worried about the future or depressed about the past, practice being present more often. Make mindfulness a priority and practice it daily. It could simply mean being more present when you talk or meet with others and not allowing the “to dos” to creep in. Be present. You will shift your life. FBN Christina Kovalik, NMD, LAc, The Vitality Doctor, is a naturopathic physician and acupuncturist specializing in hormone optimization, optimal health and vitality. She is a new Flagstaff resident, practicing since 2004, and opened her second location in Doney Park in 2020. For more information, visit thevitalitydoctor. com or call 928-863-6086.

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WHO’S THE BEST OF THE BEST?

CONGRATULATIONS

TO YOUR WINNERS!

Category

Winner

Category

Winner

Accounting Firm

Absolute Tax and Financial Serivces

Clothing Boutique

Basement Marketplace

Addiction Recovery

Back 2 Basics

Coffee Shop

Late For The Train

Advertising Agency

Overdrive Media

Commercial Contractor

Kinney Construction Services

Antique Store

Cedar Closet Thrift Shop

Commercial Landscaping Company

Agassiz Landscape Group

Archery Shop

Bull Basin Archery

Commercial Property Developer

Genterra Enterprises

Architectural Firm

Paul Moore Architects

Commercial Real Estate Agent

Colliers International

Apartments

Trailside Apartments

Computer Services Company

Flagstaff IT

Assisted Living Facility

The Peaks

Convenience Store

Speedi Car Wash & Fuel

Attractions

Arizona Snowbowl

Cosmetic Dentistry

Flagstaff Modern Dentistry

Auto Body Repair

Flagstaff Collision

Credit Union

OneAZ Credit Union

Auto Glass

Inspectors Auto Appearance

Custom Home Builder

JKC

Auto Repair & Maintenance

Auto Rehab

Custom Meats

Proper Meats & Provisions

Automotive Dealership/Service

Terry Marxen

Dental Services

Flagstaff Downtown Dental

Bank

Alliance Bank

Dermatology Services

Angela Wyatt Dermatology

Bar/Drinking Establishment

The Annex

Document Destruction

Elevated Shredding

Bath/Kitchen Renovations

Kitchen Tune-Up

Door Company

Loren Vickers Overhead Door, Inc.

Battery Store

Batteries Plus

Dry Cleaning Service

Ogden's Cleaners

Bike Shop

Absolute Bikes

Electrical Contractor

Darren Lance Electric

Brewery

Dark Sky Brewing

Endoscopy & Surgery Center

Forest Canyon Endoscopy and Surgery Center

Building Center

HomCo Lumber & Hardware

Engineering Services

Peak Engineering

Business Brokers

Colliers International

Event Rental Service

Total Grand Rental

Business Meeting/Conference/Events Little America Hotel

Exercise Facility

Flagstaff Athletic Club

Business School

Eye Care Center

The Eye and Laser Center

Butchering Services/Game Processing Bix's Butcher Shop

Family Medical Practice

Flagstaff Family Care Clinic

Car Wash

Speedi Car Wash & Fuel

Fast Food

Chick-Fil-A

Cardiology Center

Peak Heart & Vascular Center

Financial/Investment Services

Benefit & Financial Services

Carpet Cleaning

Premier Carpet Cleaning and Restoration

Flooring Company

Cunningham Flooring Direct

Casino

Cliff Castle Casino

Florist

Sutcliffe Floral

Catering

Satchmos

Furniture Store

The Lite Company

Chiropractic Care

Moseng Chiropractic

W.A. Franke College of Business

MARCH 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

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Category

Winner

Category

Winner

Garden Center

Warner's Nursery and Landscaping

Pet Grooming

Dorothy's K-9

General Contractor

Loven Contracting

Photography

KDI Photography

Golf Course

Flagstaff Ranch

Physical Rehabilitation Services

Gun Sales/Accessories

Timberline Firearms

Rehabilitation Hospital of Northern Arizona

Hair Salon

Headlines 2000

Place For an Event

Lowell Observatory

Hardware Store

HomCo Lumber & Hardware

Plant And Garden Nursery

Warner's Nursery and Landscaping

Health Care Insurance Provider

Crest Insurance Group

Plastic Surgery Center

Northern Arizona Plastic Surgeons

Health Food Store

Sprouts Farmers Market

Plumbing Contractor

Intermountain Plumbing and Mechanical

Hearing Center

Trinity Hearing Center

Printer

International Minute Press

Home Builder

Capstone Homes

Property Management

Sterling Real Estate Management

Home Health Care

Comfort Keepers

Public Relations Agency

Cindy May Marketing

Home Refurbishing/Renovations

Kitchen Tune-Up

Radio Station

KAFF Radio

Hospice

Northland Hospice

Radiology

Northern Arizona Radiology

Hotel/Lodging

Little America Hotel

Residential Contractor

Miramonte Homes

Hunting/Camping Equipment

The Sportsman

Residential Real Estate

Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty

Hypnotherapy

Don Berlin

Restaurant/Fine Dining

Brix

HVAC Contractor

Intermountain Plumbing and Mechanical

Restoration Services

Mammoth Restoration

In Home Senior Care

Comfort Keepers

Retirement Community

The Peaks

Insurance Firm

Dan Hakes - Farmer's Insurance

Roofing Company

Lion Heart Roofing

Interior Design

Kim Duncan Design

Second Hand Store

Hodgepodge Thrift Store

Internet Service Provider

Suddenlink Communications

Security Company

Diamondback Security

Jeweler

Jeff Karl Jewelers

Self Storage Facility

Woodlands Village Self Storage

Kennels

Kingsmark Kennels

Shoe Store

Run Flagstaff

Law Firm

Aspey, Watkins & Diesel PLLC

Shooting Range

Timberline Firearms

Local College

Coconino Community College

Signage

Express Yourself Signs

Martial Arts School

Sleeping Lion

Ski Store

Humphreys

Massage/Spa

Massage Envy

Sleep Center

Mountain Heart

Medical Devices/Equipment

All-Med Supplies

Smoke Shop

Rebel Smoke Shop

Medical Dispensary

Greenhouse

Solar Entergy Products/Services

E3 Energy

Mortgage Lender

Peoples Mortgage

Spa Sales and Service

Summit Spas and Billiards

Mortuary

Lozanos Flagstaff Mortuary

Staffing

Performance Staffing

Surgery Center

Flagstaff Surgical Associates

Motorcycle/ATV Service

Go AZ Motorcycles

Tax Preparation

Absolute Tax and Financial Serivces

Moving Company

Firemen Movers

Taxidermy

Signature Taxidermy

Music Store

Arizona Music Pro

Title Company

Clear Title

Naturopathic Health Care

Aspen Integrative Medical Center

Top Employer

Gore & Associates

Non-Profit/Charitable Organization

CASA

Tour Company

All-Star Grand Canyon Tours

Office Cleaning Service

Gemini Services

Travel Agency

Avenues Of The World

Office Supplies

QC Office

Upholstery Shop

A-1

Ophthalmologist

Flagstaff Eye Care Center

Veterinarian Services

Canyon Pet Hospital

Orthodontist

Northern Arizona Orthodontics - Caskey

Wellness Center

Root Natural Health

Orthopedic Center

Flagstaff Bone And Joint

Western Wear Store

CAL Ranch

Pain Management Services

Northern Arizona Pain Institute

Window Cleaning Service

Squeegee Squad

Painting Company

Major League Painting

Wine Store

Majestic Marketplace

Pet Food & Supplies

Olsen's Grain

Yoga Studio

ESenEM Yoga

Flagstaff Business News // MARCH 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com

HIDDEN RESTAURANTS continued from page 6

Left: Serving Mediterranean food without trans fats, MSG or phosphoric acid, owner Sam Abdallah is proud of his Corner Mediterranean Store, stocked with authentic Greek staples, spices and two kinds of baklava. Right: Longtime East Flagstaff coffee shop, White Dove Coffee, offers an extensive list of prepared breakfast and lunch entrees along with gourmet coffee, sodas, teas and more. Pictured left to right are manager Joseph Albrecht and owner Steve Dohse. Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney Fresh Focuses Photography

place for the east side. We were super busy up until COVID, which slowed us down, but we’re limping along,” he said. “For three years, we had a full-on concert menu and baby bands. Many high school students starting bands would come play, plus the Flagstaff School of Music does all of their shows on our stages.” “A lot of people are surprised when

they come in,” said White Dove Coffee Manager Joseph Albrecht. “When you peek in from the outside, it looks like a small box, then you come in and see this huge open area.” In-house baker Judy Hill complements the extensive menu with fresh baked goods alongside the White Dove Coffee espressos, drip coffee, lattes, crepes, sandwiches, salads, breakfast

burritos and food-sensitive offerings such as gluten-free and vegan selections. White Dove offers seasonal coffee flavors as well as selections of whole bean coffee for purchase. “We have gluten-free banana bread and blueberry muffins, along with vegan burritos and vegetarian crepes,” said Albrecht. White Dove Coffee is Located off

7th Street in the small strip mall across from Big Lots and Cal Ranch. “A lot of people have commented that we are the hidden gem of East Flagstaff,” said Dohse. “We offer amazing coffee products and menu selections and it’s a great place to hang out and even work.” “I love it here at White Dove Coffee,” said local resident and former employee Sarena Rogers. “It’s my favorite coffee

shop and the people here are great. I really like the oatmilk lattes.” FBN To contact My Pita Wrap Mediterranean Grill, call 928-226-0021, The Asian Station can be reached at 928-440-5381 and White Dove Coffee at 928-774-3059.

MARCH 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

Solar Energy Gaining Popularity

By Stan Bindell, FBN

olar power companies say more homeowners are considering solar energy now because, in December, the federal government extended a 26% tax credit for the cost of a residential system through the end of 2022 and because, with the pandemic, people are spending more time in their homes and looking for ways to save money. Guy Kobey, Northern Arizona solar sales manager for Sunny Energy, says solar energy and Flagstaff are a natural fit, as long as sun can hit the roof. “The numerous sunny days and cooler temperatures mean that a solar system in Flagstaff and Prescott will generally outperform a solar system in other warmer parts of the state.” Through residential rooftop solar systems, solar energy companies say they are helping customers become less reliant on fossil fuels and save on utility bills. “We can also help homeowners protect their family during a grid outage by installing battery backup combined with the solar electric system,” he said. Solar Life also serves the Flagstaff area. CEO Jeff Grubert says the price of residential solar energy is based on the size of the system or the amount of

power a customer wants to obtain. “While we offer cash purchase options, most homeowners do not see the wisdom in sinking a lot of cash into a purchase option,” said Grubert. “The best way to go solar is to use the 26% federal tax payment as a down payment and, with no additional cash out of pocket and a 650 credit score, a homeowner can use a low-cost purchase option to lower the monthly cost of electricity.” Beyond the long-term cost savings for electricity on a home, a homeowner likely will increase the value of the home, but more importantly, enjoy living in the house more, he added. “They get independence, freedom and control over their utility costs.” Kobey says clean energy helps to stabilize the grid, resulting in fewer outages, while benefiting the environment. “Residential solar generally has no moving parts and the energy created is pollution-free. It is estimated that the U.S. now has more than 90 gigawatts of cumulative installed electric capacity, enough to power more than 16.4 million average American homes, and offset more than 100 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions.” Beyond environmental benefits, Kobey emphasizes four ways that solar energy is helping homeowners:

N Savings: Most solar systems are financed and the new finance payments are lower than the previous utility bills, he says. N Independence: Homeowners have freedom from rate hikes. “Now, you have a choice to produce your own electricity right on your own roof and the cost of the energy does not increase,” said Kobey. N Increased home values: In the past, some solar systems were leased and those did not add value to homes. However, a recent Zillow study shows that homes with owned solar systems will typically sell for 4.1% more than a similar home without solar. “The simple reason is that homes with solar have much lower utility bills and cost less each month to own and operate than homes without solar.” N Security: In the event of a grid outage, homeowners with solar and batteries can still run most of their devices. “Often, homeowners will choose to back up circuits such as refrigerators, lights, communications, security and garage doors.” FBN

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MENTAL TOUGHNESS continued from page 15

were committed to her safe rescue. Strive for balance. Amanda’s lifestyle choices of exercise, meditation, a healthy diet, attention to rest, a peaceful community and time spent in nature no doubt kept her mind and body strong and provided knowledge about the natural environment, which I believe were critical factors to her survival. Maintain hope. Mentally tough people don’t allow negative thoughts to overwhelm them or get distracted by pain from the past or worries about the future. Assert power over what they can control and believe they can influence the outcome. Every day that Amanda was lost, she knew she had a decision to make – keep going or give up. She continued to side with life, even after a discouraging Day 14, when she realized she was invisible to search helicopters flying over her. “As the sun starts to go down, you’re like, ‘Okay another night alone. How am I gonna stay warm? How am I gonna stay alive?’” she said in a news conference shortly after her rescue. “And it was a very loud clear message that I received that said, ‘If you want to say ‘no’ and you want to sit on that rock, you’re gonna die. So, you have a choice to make.

You can sit on that rock and you can die, and you can say ‘mercy’ and you can feel pitiful for yourself and play victim, or you can start walking down that waterfall and choose life.’ It was a pivotal time in my life where I had to choose life. Every single step was, ‘I choose life.’” It has been nearly two years since Amanda was lost in the jungle. She has spent some time away from the island, processing her journey. Today, she is back in Maui, healing others and drawing from a deeper well of wisdom. “As a ‘side effect’ of my experience in the wilderness, my intuitive abilities popped open. This has allowed me to offer healing at a much deeper level than before by easily honing in and addressing the root of the problem,” she told me. “I also offer Transformational Healing and Empowerment Coaching sessions, which give my clients the opportunity to step into their own intuitive capabilities and wisdom thereby assisting them in navigating life’s challenges.” FBN Bonnie Stevens is a public relations consultant. She can be reached at bonnie.stevens@ gmail.com.

Flagstaff Business News // MARCH 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com

SUSTAINABLE continued from page 1

scape-scale conservation stewardship, environmental and organizational sustainability, and healthy relationships with the land and the greater community,” said Babbitt Ranches President and General Manager Billy Cordasco. “Along with the Ranch Council and family members, we are creating the foundation now for a future that will create clean, renewable energy generation for the next generation and their children’s children that can co-exist with ranching operations, scientific research, wildlife conservation, dark skies protection and outdoor recreation.” In a late-February Zoom public meeting, NextEra representatives discussed wind speeds, noise, viewsheds, lighting, public recreation, wildlife and ranching impacts, and the 20to 30-year life of the project, which includes 61 wind turbines. Representatives say wind speeds have been recorded at approximately 6 meters per second at the site and there is no evidence that noise will interfere with homeowners in the Valle community nine miles away; the closest residence will be five miles from a turbine. NextEra presentation materials state, “Infrasound and low frequency noise from wind turbines are not a health issue.” Lighting, already being used by NextEra at its Perrin Ranch Wind Energy Center to the west, is designed

to turn on at night only when low-flying aircraft are detected. In addition, the project will not be fenced, thereby allowing recreationists such as hunters, campers and hikers access to the land. Visual simulations reveal turbines will be visible from some locations on Highway 180 and State Route 64. Adjustments already have been made to move turbines more than half a mile from the Arizona National Scenic Trail to prevent sound and sight impacts. SWCA Environmental Consultants say ongoing wildlife studies are underway. Meanwhile, livestock grazing is expected to continue as usual. NextEra Project Manager Wardah Abbasi says the Babbitt Ranch Energy Center is being planned with sensitivity to environmental and cultural resources. Currently, NextEra is coordinating with the Arizona Department of Transportation and Coconino County on Hwy 180 traffic impacts during the construction phase, from December 2021 to December 2022. Operations are expected to begin in January 2023. Upon decommissioning, NextEra says with recent advancements in technology, now virtually all wind turbine components can be recycled, including turbine blades, and the land will be returned to its natural condition. “This renewable energy endeavor aligns well with our conservation

As Babbitt Ranches prepares to celebrate 135 years of ranching and conservation in April, Ranch Council and family members plan to include renewable energy generation as part of the operations. Courtesy photo

plans, which include protecting Northern Arizona’s open spaces, dark starry skies and grassland species such as pronghorn antelope, Gunnison’s prairie dog, the black-footed ferret and the golden eagle,” said Cordasco. Babbitt Ranches holds one of the

largest conservation easements in the country, with 40,000 acres, including Cataract Canyon, protected as open space and wildland in perpetuity. The pioneering land company has been instrumental in studying and managing habitat for the benefit of pronghorn. The Babbitts’ Espee

Ranch has been the site for the reintroduction of the black-footed ferret that once teetered on the brink of extinction, while tens of thousands of acres of grassland have been restored from encroaching pinon and juniper trees, which helps species like prairie dogs and jackrabbits.

Continued on page 42

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CHOCOLATE continued from page 17

Grand Canyon Chocolate Factory Manager Sean Ketcher grew up with Stickler and he and his family helped get the store going. “I’ve learned that when Tyler has a goal, he doesn’t stop. He digs down and works until he achieves it. I’m really lucky to work with him.” Renovations are planned in the next couple of months, along with an expansion of products. “We have space on the other side of our building, so we’re looking into opening a coffee and pastry shop as well,” said Stickler. “We have had requests for specialty coffee and drinks.” The Grand Canyon Chocolate Factory is located off Highway 64 in Tusayan. For more information, call 928-853-9753 or visit grandcanyonfactory@gmail.com.

MY SUPERPOWER:

My parents. They taught me to push myself out of my comfort zone. In high school, I was scared of public speaking, but I pushed myself and eventually, I spoke in front of 8,000 people and felt at ease. Also, my parents taught me people skills and the ability to communicate effectively. I thought it was normal to have these traits, but as I grew older I’ve realized it’s not, and that has set me apart. I owe it all to my parents.

CHARACTER TRAITS I MOST APPRECIATE IN OTHERS:

For me, it’s hard work. I think hard work defines character more than any other trait. Just by showing up and working consistently is one of the most important attributes someone can have. More than anything, work ethic will get you further in life.

MY GUILTY PLEASURE:

Weird, but other than the Grand Canyon Chocolate Factory, my life is the gym at Flagstaff Athletic Club. I love weightlifting.

MY FAVORITE PLACE TO RECREATE:

My family grew up around Page and Lake Powell, so I fell in love with it because it is such a beautiful area and so much to do. My dad and I also like to hunt, especially in the Kaibab Forest, Unit 9.

BEST ADVICE I’VE EVER RECEIVED:

My dad taught me that hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work. He’s always said there’s no substitute for a good attitude and good work ethic and I always believed that and always will because it’s worked for me. That’s the way I live my life. FBN

Tyler Stickler offers travelers a sign that chocolate isn’t too far away. V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

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ARCHULETA continued from page 3

a particular point to thank her executive assistant, Theresa Munoz, who worked with her for 22 of her 24 years in office. Her fellow supervisors praised her devoted service and big heart, including Board Chair Matt Ryan, who came into office the same year as she did. The Coconino County Board of Supervisors will appoint a replacement for the District 2 Supervisor seat, who will serve until 2022 when voters will elect a new District 2 Supervisor. “My heart is full of gratitude for the people who embraced me over the years,” Archuleta said. “Each person who let me into their homes and hearts, who shared their struggles and aspirations with me have enriched my life. Thank you. Thank you for entrusting me as your representative. I will carry that trust, the stories, and the dreams with me to Washington, D.C., as I continue my public service. I am so proud to be from Northern Arizona and be part of this administration, and to be a part of history, with the first woman vice president and first woman of color.” Reflecting on the path that has brought her to this point, Archuleta offers this advice to any young woman who may be considering a career in politics today: “I would tell her to be unafraid and to pursue her dreams despite the fear she may have. I am a firm believer that the hardest moments we experience in life are lessons that make us stronger and more resilient. No matter what, I would tell her to never forget where she comes from and to always be an advocate for her community, because when we break down these walls and barriers before us, we do that not just for ourselves, but for our entire community, too. We always have to ensure that we are lifting up others on this journey.” As the USDA director of Intergovernmental Affairs, Archuleta will serve as the liaison to elected and appointed officials of local, county, state and tribal governments. “I am looking forward to this very external facing role and to interfacing with government officials throughout the nation to assist them and their communities,” she said. Archuleta has said her heart will always remain with the community of Flagstaff, a home that has always been so good to her. FBN

ParkFlag to Resume Paid Parking Enforcement

he City of Flagstaff’s paid parking program, ParkFlag, has resumed as of this month and will continue to manage the limited supply of parking downtown and in the Southside Neighborhood. This program was suspended because of COVID-19, however, enforcement of parking violations including time-limited parking has been ongoing. When ParkFlag resumes, the program will include changes that were recommended by the public, including: N Shortened hours of pay-to-park schedule to reflect when management is needed most: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday through Thursday; 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday. N Decreased cost of an employee parking permit by more than 75%, to $10 a month. The application for an Employee Permit is available through ParkFLag.org. N Installation of new, easy-to-read signs listing hours of operation and the location of Employee North (EN) parking.

N Carry-out zones that will remain in place, providing locals and visitors the opportunity to quickly pick up items or conduct short-term business without paying for parking.

Parking customers are now able to purchase parking at any one of the 106 kiosks located in the Pay-To-Park area. City officials say the kiosks are being sanitized daily. The Flowbird mobile app is a touchless option for payment, as well as the online portal. Parking cost remains $1 an hour. The vehicle’s license plate number is the permit. Drivers are encouraged to keep a photo or note in their phone. For additional information about updated hours and additional Employee North parking areas, including maps, visit parkflag.org. FBN

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WEE SCOTTY continued from page 4

that was it; simply all my girlfriends in the neighborhood had a new bikini bathing suit that summer! At age 7, I mastered elastic application!” In middle school, she didn’t want to take any music classes and was only interested in taking all the sewing classes. “The principal argued his point of ‘what is required,’ and my mom said, ‘Let her take the sewing classes if that is what she is good at,’ as I stood off to the side crying for more sewing!” Lynne started her first sewing enterprise in her apartment in 1995. “First jobs were with various rock stars (Billy Dean, Charlie Watts, Robert Plant), and Joe Boxer, developing three lines of apparel for teens, women’s PJs and men’s boxers. Charlie Watts, the drummer for the Stones, came to me for custom shirts; he always dressed dapper, and we met when I worked on the Steel Wheels tour in ‘89.”

At the new Flagstaff store, a needlepoint section has been added, and Wee Scotty has sold out of sewing machines many times during the months of the pandemic. “We offer machine sales for Brother and fully educate buyers with that purchase with free lessons on how to use your new machine,” Gallagher said. “Over the years, I have sold every brand, make and model, and we really have found a home with Brother. We have great machines at every price point.” After finishing unpacking and organizing the new space, plans include new clothing lines. “I have always loved sewing fashions to wear,” she said. “The kids’ line was a lot of fun to design, and I will probably continue that after we settle in a little more.” Gallagher says a number of her students have taken their education to the

college level and have earned degrees at NYU, Parsons, New School of Design in New York, Savannah (SCAD), Northwestern University of Michigan, Pratt, FIDM, RISD and Stanford. “Fashion is serious, and there are many levels to take this type of education and skill development,” she said. “Many of the kids, who are now adults, are working in the industry in Manhattan, Paris and Milan as fashion journalists, stitchers, designers, opera singers and even architects. It’s all in your imagination, come in and unleash your dreams. Learn to work with it!” FBN

Wee Scotty is located in a historic landmark downtown that housed the first vaulted bank in Flagstaff. Courtesy photo by Annie Brewer

Flagstaff Business News // MARCH 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Coconino County Board Chooses Steve Peru as Manager

he Coconino County Board of Supervisors changed course on its County Manager recruitment process and is choosing experienced, local candidate Steve Peru for the position he once held. Currently, Peru is the chief external affairs officer for Coconino Community College and president of the CCC Foundation. In a news release, the Board of Supervisors expressed the need for continuity of leadership and experience during the COVID-19 pandemic as primary drivers for the change of direction in the County Manager recruitment. “The COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with major losses, such as the decommissioning of the Navajo Generating Station, has tested Coconino County unlike any other time in recent history,” stated Chairman Matt Ryan. “The Board knows we need experience and knowledge of our

organization and the communities we serve at the helm of the county. Steve Peru is that type of leader that can help us guide the county to the new normal ahead of us and we are excited to have him rejoin our county team.” “Coconino County is home for my family and me,” said Peru. “My career began in the county and I look forward to returning to work with the Board of Supervisors and the entire team at the county. Coconino County has been a leader throughout the pandemic, and in many other circumstances and events, for our communities. I want to thank Dr. Smith, the CCC District Governing Board and CCC Foundation Board for providing me with the opportunity to expand community college opportunities for Coconino County residents.” When is expected to begin with the county on April 5. According to the news release, current County Manag-

Steve Peru

er James Jayne, who announced his retirement last December, is planning to serve as a senior advisor to Peru to aid in the leadership transition. FBN

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RENWABLE continued from page 38

COVID continued from page 14

and distancing. “Even after you get vaccinated, it’s important to continue using all the tools available to help stop this pandemic as we learn more about how COVID-19 vaccines work in real-world conditions,” said Yavapai County Community Health Services Public Health Coordinator Terri Farneti. About 8% of the country has been vaccinated, with more than 1.8 million doses administered to more than 1.2 million Arizonans, including nearly 600,000 who have received both doses. To learn more about COVID-19 vaccines and vaccination, visit azdhs. gov/COVID19Vaccines. For COVID-19 vaccine appointment availability in Coconino County, visit yavapai.us/chs/Home/COVID-19/ Vaccine. Those without computer access or needing extra help registering can call 1-844-542-8201 to be connected with someone who can assist. FBN

“We are particularly excited about the creation of our SP Crater Golden Eagle Conservation Complex, as there are multiple golden eagle nests northeast of the Peaks,” said Cordasco. Babbitt Ranches also is measuring the darkness of the night skies stretching across the 750,000-acre ranch and will be seeking an International Dark Sky Reserve designation from the International Dark-Sky Association. “The Babbitt Ranch project will bring many benefits to Coconino County, including employment opportunities, increased business activity for local businesses and millions of dollars in additional tax revenue to help enhance roads and public services for all residents of this community,” said Abbasi. “We look forward to developing the Babbitt Ranch project and generating lowcost, renewable energy in Arizona for years to come.” For more information, visit the project web and Facebook pages at BabbittRanchProject.com and Facebook.com/BabbittRanchProject. FBN

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 Account Executives Ann Herrington | 520-420-5507 Ann@flagstaffbusinessnews.com Regina Salas | 928-699-4272 regina@flagstaffbusinessnews.com Deborah “DMK” Mainville-Knight 928-460-4330 dmk@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.

MARCH 2021 // Flagstaff Business News

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AVALANCHE continued from page 1

grew up on the mountain and now is a mom of six pups – all of which have found homes in Flagstaff. “When people see us, they are welcome to come over and say hello and ask about what she does and ask to pet her,” said Hagerty. “Oftentimes she is working, so you can’t pet her then. But if you’re lucky enough to catch us on the mountain, we’d love to meet you!” Hagerty grew up in Tucson, but has been skiing in Telluride since she was 6, while visiting her family’s home in nearby Dolores, Colorado. She also has always loved dogs and learned from other dog trainers before she began working with Ava. “Ava has had years of training, we go nonstop. She comes to work about 30 hours a week and trains probably for a couple hours every day. Some of it is training on a search and rescue drill. Some of it is training on riding chair lifts and snowmobiles and being around on mountain operations.” Snowbowl’s Assistant Ski Patrol Director and Snow Safety Coordinator Derik Spice says dogs can be a key tool in search and rescue efforts because of their acute sense of smell and ability to cover more ground than humans. “The goal is to expand the dog program,” he said, “to ensure rescue readiness every day at the ski area, since Ava, of course, has days off, too.”

Despite avalanche safety efforts, the 2020-21 winter season already has proven to be among the deadliest in U.S. history. At least 22 people have died – more than half were skiers and snowboarders. The deadliest week in a century occurred from Jan. 30 to Feb. 6, 2021, when more than 15 perished. Included among the victims were four skiers who were caught in Utah’s Mill Creek Canyon avalanche on a steep, north facing slope on Saturday, Feb. 6. Four survived the event. Reports say they all were experienced skiers who were carrying avalanche safety gear such as beacons, shovels and probes. Spice says avalanches are most likely to occur after fresh snowfall adds another layer to a snowpack. An overloaded snowpack can set off a slide. “We are concerned about avalanches when we receive eight inches of snow in 12 hours or 12 inches in 24 hours; significant wind transport; or even a rain on snow event,” said Spice. “The wind is a big factor, too.” He also attributes some of the danger to more people wanting to be out in the backcountry because of COVID-19 restrictions. He says avalanche education is crucial for venturing outside of the ski area. The Kachina Peaks Avalanche Center, a local non-profit organization, provides courses and information about conditions on the San Francisco

Peaks. Information can be found at kachinapeaks.org. To reduce the risk, Snowbowl Ski Patrol members set off explosives in the upper bowl within the ski area to shake free unstable layers when a dangerous amount of snow accumulates. “One of our main jobs is to mitigate avalanche hazards before terrain can be opened to the public,” said Spice. “The best chance for survival in an avalanche is to have a beacon, shovel, probe and a partner trained and ready to rescue,” said Hagerty. “But in the instance that they don’t have a beacon with them, a dog is their best chance of being found.” Although Ava knows the drill and is ready to jump into action, Hagerty hopes the Ski Patrol never has to use her. “We hope she’s really here as a reminder for people to travel safely while they are in avalanche terrain, as well as just being safe on the mountain by being in control and avoiding collisions and making sure everybody has a great, safe time at Snowbowl.” FBN

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Hailey Hagerty’s NAU capstone project turned into an Avalanche Rescue Dog Program at Arizona Snowbowl, where she and Ava train for hours each week. Photo by Bonnie Stevens

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