March 2024

Forêt FLG Chef in the Running for James Beard Award

FBy Peter Corbett, FBN

orêt FLG owner Sam Greenhalgh is the latest Flagstaff chef selected as a semifinalist for a James Beard Award, one of the nation’s most esteemed culinary honors.

Greenhalgh is among 20 semifinalists in the 2024 Best Chef Southwest category, which includes chefs from Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada and Oklahoma.

“I’m truly honored to be a James Beard semifinalist,” Greenhalgh said, adding that he learned about the honor when he got dozens of text messages from friends congratulating him. “I didn’t know what they were talking about.”

The other Arizona semifinalists for Best Chef Southwest are:

ƒ Rene Andrade, Bacanora, Phoenix

ƒ Flavio Briones, Barista del Barrio, Tucson

ƒ Pornsupak “Cat” Bunnag, Glai Baan, Phoenix

ƒ Wendy Garcia, Tumérico, Tucson

ƒ Claudio Urciuoli, Source, Gilbert The winners will be announced June 10 at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

Greenhalgh (pronounced Green-

March 2024 | Issue 3 Volume 17

TOP

ouch) opened Forêt FLG in August 2021 with his mother, Natasha, as his partner and cafe host. His sister, Billy, is the front of the house manager and oversees Forét’s coffee and cocktails. A longtime friend, James Brown, is Forét’s kitchen manager. Forét has 25 employees.

Greenhalgh, 30, said he knew he wanted to be a chef by the time he

Continued on page 31

Lamberson, McLaughlin Honored for Flagstaff ATHENA Leadership

Award recipients share a commitment to community building

By Bonnie Stevens, FBN

When Mountain Sports Flagstaff owner Lisa Lamberson learned she was officially nominated for the 2024 Flagstaff ATHENA Leadership Award, she was in Mexico with a contingent of volunteers building homes for those in need at a community called Rancho Feliz. Meanwhile, Housing Solutions of Northern Arizona CEO Devonna McLaughlin, also a nominee for the prestigious award, was working to create affordable housing in Flagstaff.

The two businesswomen, both working in different ways to provide shelter for families, found themselves being honored by nearly 600 people at the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce 2024 Annual Meeting and Award Luncheon, Friday,

Feb. 16: Lamberson, the recipient of the ATHENA Private Sector Award; McLaughlin, the recipient of the ATHENA Public/Non-profit Award.

LISA LAMBERSON

“Growing up in a deeply rooted small-town family, I learned the importance of authentic human connection and community building from a young age,” said Lamberson, upon accepting the honor. “My entrepreneurial parents, Mark and Rosie, taught me the value of building relationships and showing up for those in need. These lessons have shaped who I am today and guide my work as a curator of community.”

Under Lamberson’s leadership, her family business recently celebrated its 50th anniversary with the community and also has provided more than $250,000 to local non-profit conservation and environmental education organizations through Mountain Sports’ 1% for the Planet

Continued on page 28

Surrounded by a community of Flagstaff ATHENA Leadership Award recipients, Mountain Sports Flagstaff owner Lisa Lamberson, Flagstaff Medical Center Emergency Department Care Coordinator Kate Wyatt and Housing Solutions of Northern Arizona CEO Devonna McLaughlin, seated here in the front row, were honored during the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting and Award Luncheon.

Emerging from Its Watery Tomb

Glen Canyon documents re-emerge in film featuring Flagstaff photographer at Sedona International Film Festival

By Betsey Bruner, FBN

It’s a story that deserves to be told: The burying of what some say is one of the most pristine places on Earth, Glen Canyon, often called “America’s lost national park.”

The entombment came when the diversion tunnels of Glen Canyon Dam were screwed shut in 1963, causing the waters of the Colorado River to back up 186 miles to both flood the canyon and create Lake Powell.

One prominent storyteller stepping forward to tell this story is Dawn Kish of Flagstaff, a conservation photographer and filmmaker whose documentary, “Tad’s Emerging World – Glen Canyon Exposed,” has been featured at the 2024 Sedona International Film Festival.

Facilitating the telling of this story is the drastic drop in water levels in Lake Powell from September 2021 to April 2023, the lowest levels since 1963, reportedly caused by drought, climate change and increased human use.

Kish said she has been greatly inspired by the work of photographer Tad Nichols (1911-2000), who worked for the Sierra Club and the U.S Indian Services and first explored the Colorado River through Glen Canyon in 1950.

Nichols, working with a Crown Graphic 4x5 view camera, photographed the flowing streams, quiet amphitheaters, twisting slot canyons and naked red rocks for the next 13 years, before the completion of Glen Canyon Dam in 1963 halted his efforts by flooding the canyon.

His book, “Glen Canyon: Images of a Lost World,” was published in 1999 just before his death and contains what have been called the best photographic images of the most beautiful canyon system in the Southwest.

“I’m a big fan of his work,” Kish noted. “Tad is like the Ansel Adams of Glen Canyon. I’m going back to create art and advocacy in a place I never

thought I would see in my lifetime.”

Kish was able to borrow the actual 4x5 camera used by Nichols to create her own images of the emerging canyon.

“I can’t believe I was so lucky to go back to Glen Canyon with Tad’s camera, the same camera that documented Glen Canyon in the 1950s,” she said. “I really enjoy 4x5 and you really slow down when creating film images. I called the camera ‘Tad’ and would breathe slowly when releasing the shutter. Plus, I have been making films and usually I turn my photographic stories into films. It is still storytelling and creating.”

Kish obtained the Crown Graphic from Richard Jackson, a master photographic printer who lives in Flagstaff. Nichols left his view camera to Jackson, who was a friend, as well as his printer.

“Tad would come up from Tucson just to work with Richard in his darkroom,” she explained. “Also, Jackson was Bennett and Running’s printer too, and now mine. He is a big part of the story. He is in the film, too. Without him this never would have happened.”

As of now, because the water levels rose back up in the lake from a big snowpack in winter 2023, all the photos she has taken are under water again.

“Someone needs to document the story and show how humans really know how to mess up the natural world,” Kish said. “People don’t even know that there is this amazing canyon under the reservoir, Lake Powell. I tell people about Glen Canyon, and they have never heard of it. So, I’m going to expose Glen Canyon when it emerges out of its watery tomb every chance I get.”

Kish’s documentary had its world premiere at the 2022 Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival and its U.S. premiere at the 2023 Telluride Mountainfilm Festival. The film has been in many other film festivals as well, before its accep-

Continued on page 28

Photographer Dawn Kish used Tad Nichols’ original Crown Graphic 4x5 view camera to tell the story of Glen Canyon. He photographed the flowing streams, quiet amphitheaters, twisting slot canyons and naked red rocks before the completion of Glen Canyon Dam in 1963, which halted his efforts by flooding the canyon. Courtesy photo.

Starlite Lanes Keeps Bowlers Rolling through the Years

Completely renovated landmark is one of Arizona’s longest running alleys

By Peter Corbett, FBN

Ten pins, 16 lanes and 66 years of bowling on Route 66.

That’s the numbers game for Starlite Lanes, Flagstaff’s only bowling center and one of the state’s oldest bowling alleys. But old, in this case, does not mean outdated.

Since buying the business in 2010,

era bowling alley in 1957 when the blue-collar game was exploding across America. It was the pickleball of its era. Sports pages were full of league standings and bowling columnists shared news about keglers, a now outdated term for bowlers.

Stay-at-home moms with beehive hairdos had morning leagues. Men hit the lanes after work. Kids bowled in

Since 2006

Council to require pool halls and bowling alleys to close between midnight and 7 a.m. Violators faced three months in jail or a $300 fine, equivalent to $8,850 today.

Mountain Sports currently occupies the Verkamp Building. Few remnants of the bowling alley remain.

League bowler Franky Lynch aims for a spare on an alley at Starlite Lanes. Photo by Austin Corbett,

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Could Pluto

Controversial object gains cosmic support

By Kevin Schindler, FBN

The rattlesnake is Arizona’s official state reptile, petrified wood is the state fossil, and the bola (or bolo) tie is the state neckwear. Now, if Arizona lawmaker Justin Wilmeth gets his way, Arizona will become the first state to boast an official planet: Pluto.

Wilmeth, a republican state representative for District 15, introduced the bill into the House on Jan. 17. Last April, he was part of a legislative delegation that toured the construction site of Lowell Observatory’s 40,000-square-foot Marley Foundation Astronomy Discovery Center, set to open this November. During the visit, he was reminded of Clyde Tombaugh’s discovery of Pluto at the observatory in 1930.

Jump ahead to early 2024. “I was sitting around with one of my staffers one day who is from Flagstaff, named Kelsey,” explained Wilmeth. “And I said I want to have a little fun this year.” Soon, the discussion triggered a lightbulb to go off in Wilmeth’s head and the idea of naming Pluto

the official state planet formed.

He quickly wrote a bill, which reads simply, “Pluto is the Official State Planet.” He introduced it to the House and, after being passed by the House Rules and Government committees, it went before the entire House on Feb. 19. After Wilmeth read a proclamation honoring Pluto, the House discussed the bill and vot-

ed unanimously to pass it, 52-0. Wilmeth acknowledged that the bill is not necessarily as weighty as others but is nevertheless important.

“We’re defenders and purveyors of our state history and this happened here,” he said. “When little kids hear about this, they will fall in love with Pluto and think, ‘If that happened

Planet?

Lowell Observatory Historian Kevin Schindler, with a City of Flagstaff proclamation celebrating Pluto, joins State Representative Justin Wilmeth, holding a Pluto poster, on the floor of the State House of Representatives Feb. 19, after the House passed the bill to make Pluto the state planet. Courtesy photo

Lowell Observatory astronomer Stephen Levine, Ph.D., Lowell Historian Kevin Schindler, author Diane Phelps, State Representative Justin Wilmeth and Lowell COO Amanda Bosh, Ph.D., give the “Pluto Salute,” signifying Pluto as the ninth planet.Courtesy photo

Working with the World’s Biggest Telescopes

By Diane Hope, FBN

“Astronomers always want the biggest telescope to see the most detail, but it’s not possible, either physically or financially, to build a telescope mirror 300 feet across,” explained Gerard van Belle. “So, I cheat. I take many small telescopes and put them together to work like one big one.” Van Belle has been an astronomer at the Lowell Observatory since 2011, working on detecting exoplanets and mapping the surfaces of stars.

This work is possible because van Belle uses the biggest optical telescopes in the world, known as Very Large Arrays, or VLAs. But, unlike the giant radio telescope array in Socorro, New Mexico, the instruments van Belle uses are optical VLAs. Instead of using radio waves, they detect incoming visible light, combining it using a clever technical trick called “interferometry.”

Van Belle has worked on every major optical interferometer on the planet, including the Keck Interferometer in Hawaii. In fact, on his first job after grad school, he was tasked with linking those two Keck telescopes. “I had to align small mir-

rors that direct light from the main mirrors to the detector, to within fractions of an inch, by hand. It involved hanging from girders on the giant structure as it tracked the sky. I was swung around as if I were on a high-priced amusement park ride about 50 feet off the ground,” he said.

Until recently, van Belle has worked with an instrument much closer to home. Those who have driven on Lake Mary Road south of Flagstaff may have seen the signpost to “NPOI.” This Northern Arizona VLA is the Navy Precision Optical Interferometer (NPOI), on Anderson Mesa. It became operational in 2011, with major upgrades initiated by Lowell Observatory in 2017.

It might not look like much from the ground, but viewed from above, NPOI is shaped like a giant “Y” 450 yards across. Each arm is 250 yards –that’s around two-and-a-half football fields long. Light from space is caught with six small telescopes placed along the arms of the Y. That light travels down the connecting pipes with the air sucked out of them to minimize distortions.

“There are two Olympic-sized swimming pools-worth of vacuum inside this system,” said van Belle.

The individual telescopes must be linked with extreme precision, he explained, using mirrors on trolleys, which run up and down on rails, aligned 1,000 times every second, to within 10 nanometers – around one-thousandth of the width of a human hair.

When aligned correctly, NPOI can show exquisitely small things in

space. “Imagine if you put an orange in New York City and could view it from Anderson Mesa. NPOI’s resolution would let you read the ‘Sunkist’ label on that orange,” he explained.

Van Belle has used this extraordinary technology in studies of exoplanets – including mapping details of the stars around which exoplanets are known to orbit.

Now, van Belle and colleagues want to put a VLA on the moon.

“We’ve proposed a project to NASA under their funding line for small missions called Astrophysics Pioneers – and are still waiting to hear whether it will be approved,” said van Belle. The components can be quite small because, with no atmosphere on the

Continued on page 22

Gerard van Belle working on some of the smaller NPOI hardware. Photo courtesy of Gerard van Belle

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Woman Business

of the Month

Ann Jackson Keeps Raggedy Ann Dolls Close to Hearts

By V. Ronnie Tierney, FBN

Throughout the decades of American history, Raggedy Ann dolls have played a role in comforting both adults and children with a warm message of kindness and a simple “I love you” embroidered on their hearts.

Created by American artist and writer Johnny Gruelle in 1915, the whimsical doll has become an American icon. Raggedy Ann and her brother, Andy, who was created a few years later, became so popular that a day was set aside to pay tribute to them. Their Facebook page beams with the dolls’ fans posting comments, questions and items for sale.

In keeping the character alive, AMKI Products owner Ann Jackson has been making Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls since 1974. Working from her Camp Verde studio, Jackson sells her crafts at Udderly Divine Mercantile and at craft shows.

“My mom used to make Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls, so I initially picked up the craft from her,” said Jackson. “When my daughter was born, she was hospitalized with two chambers in her heart and no oxygen going to her heart, so I spent that time in the hospital. I had to keep my hands and my mind busy, so I started making Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls. My daughter did not survive, but I continued to make the dolls because they brought me comfort.” At the time Jackson was living in Rochester, New York.

Working from an original pattern that she obtained in 1974, Jackson says she embroiders the face of

each of her dolls. “A lot of Raggedy Ann and Andy doll makers simply iron on the eyes or pencil them in, but I feel it’s important to take the time to embroider the way they did it when the dolls were first created, the old-fashioned way,” said Jackson.   She also enjoys making dolls that represent different cultural communities such as African American,

Asian and others. “Sometimes I’ll dress the dolls up for Christmas, Valentine’s Day and other holidays.”

Exclusive to Jackson’s line of dolls is a patented pattern of grandpa and grandma versions of Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls. “I met the owner of this pattern and he sold it to me. At one time, these dolls were made with social security numbers, so I might start doing that again,” she said.

“These older versions of Raggedy Ann and Andy are so different and so cute.  They are dressed in old-fashioned clothing and have wire rimmed glasses. I like the size of the dolls and they are so nice to have as decorations in my living room,” said artist Sheri Morris of Camp Verde. “The price is very reasonable and they have custom names on them.”

Jackson was born in upper Michigan and raised her four children

in Hartland, Wisconsin. “I lost my husband in 1980. During that time, I made 29 Raggedy Ann dolls in one month. It kept me busy during my grieving.”

Education was important to Jackson, so when her children went to school, she did too. “I went to Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) and obtained degrees in graphic design, interior, residential and commercial design.”

In 2003 Jackson moved to Peoria to be near her daughter, who was stationed at Luke Air Force Base. When her daughter was scheduled to serve in Korea, Jackson followed. “While in Korea I made a lot of dolls and gave them away. It was kind of fun to think that maybe Raggedy Ann and Andy might become popular in Korea, too.”

When she returned home, Jackson moved to Camp Verde to work for a blacksmith shop. “I worked there

for 15 years doing graphic design for a catalog. I really missed making my Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls, plus I was getting some orders. So, I decided to become a full-time doll maker,” she said. “My dolls have been shipped all over the country.”

“My two granddaughters, ages 8 and 10, received AMKI Products Raggedy Ann dolls for Christmas this year. They were absolutely thrilled and are inseparable from their dolls,” said retiree Edie Huntting of Idaho. “I was impressed with the attention to detail on the dolls and how well they were made. Ann has truly mastered her craft.”

Some of her dolls are custom made with names embroidered on the heart. FBN

For more about AMKI Products, Ann Jackson can be reached at amkiprod@gmail. com or 928-274-0675.

Top: AMKI Products owner Ann Jackson displays her Raggedy Ann dolls at Udderly Divine Mercantile Store. Bottom: Jackson embroiders “I Love You” on the heart of each of her dolls. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

How the Idea of a Man in a Kilt Built a Literary Empire

‘Outlander’ author Diana Gabaldon shares her journey that began in the Northland

By Bonnie Stevens, FBN

Noting that Mozart died at age 36, Diana Gabaldon, at 35, decided she’d better get on with it if she wanted to write a novel, her childhood dream. As a young girl, she had read her way through the entire children’s section of the Flagstaff Library. At age 8, she decided she was a novelist.

A scientist with three degrees including a doctorate, Gabaldon was used to writing grants. She recalls her research about the pinyon jay as she set out to learn why the forest bird built nests in trees next to roads. Curiosity and the need to seek out answers are valuable traits for a novelist, she said. In this case, she learned that the baby jays eat insects. “Weeds are the first plants to grow in the spring and they come up where the land is disturbed – forest roads. Insects eat weeds.”

Her studies in botany would become helpful later, when writing about medicinal plants.

But with that first attempt, she decided, writing a novel would be completely different from anything she’d written before, including the comic strips she

wrote for Disney for a short period of time. So, her goal was simply to learn how to do it with a practice novel. She figured no one but herself would be reading it, so she could write about anything. She landed on the idea of a fictional story based on historical events.

“In that malleable frame of mind,” she explains, she was watching an episode of the television science fiction program “Doctor Who.” The extraterrestrial, known as the Doctor, commonly came upon humans that became his traveling companions. In this particular episode, it was a Scotsman in a kilt. The next day in church, Gabaldon was still thinking about that character. That’s when it came to her: “18th century Scotland!”

Thus, Jamie Fraser sprang to life in her head and on the pages as she wrote “Outlander.”

The other main character, Claire Beauchamp Randall, came to her in a different way. “I had these Scotsmen and I thought it would be interesting if a proper English woman were to come upon them.”

To her surprise, Claire didn’t speak

like an 18th century woman. Instead, her voice was modern and sassy. “She kept insisting on speaking that way, so I decided to quit fighting her and figure out later how she got there.”

That’s when Gabaldon created the time-travel element and Outlander unfolded as a historical fantasy love story set around the time of World War II, when Claire, a nurse, travels through time to 18th century Scotland and finds adventure and romance with the handsome Highland warrior Jamie Fraser.

“Claire has my scientific bent,” said Gabaldon, but Jamie is one of her favorite characters. As she explains, “The characters just show up and start talking. They usually come with a name. They travel with me, like family.”

Gabaldon’s practice novel was published in 1991. The television program “Outlander,” on which she is a consultant, premiered on Starz in 2014. Today, nine books of the planned 10-novel Outlander series have been written and translated into 38 languages. More than 50 million copies of the books have been sold across more than 100 countries.

Currently, the latest television season and the newest book are in a race for which one will be written first. “There is no bigger thrill than having someone read something you wrote and like it!”

she said. And when the writing brings tears to readers? “Crying is even better.”

A RETURN TO HER HOMETOWN

Gabaldon recalls growing up in Flagstaff and playing in her great grandfather’s workshop. Stanley Sykes was an instrument maker for Lowell Observatory. He and his brother,

Godfrey, previously owned a bike shop in Flagstaff and claimed to be able to make or mend anything.

Astronomer Percival Lowell took them up on their promise and asked the brothers to build him a dome for his telescope. . They did. The Clark Dome was built in 1896. Today it con-

Continued on page 29

Diana Gabaldon shared insights about her writing career. “It’s OK if you aren’t a linear thinker and don’t follow an outline,” she says about her own style. “You still arrive at the same place.” Photo by Bonnie Stevens

BY V. RONNIE TIERNEY, FBN

The Garage Puts Music in Harm’s Way

Max Harms’ recording studio attracts musicians to Camp Verde

The Garage recording studio producer Max Harms is proof that big things can happen in small places.

Working out of his Camp Verde garage turned audio engineering production studio, Harms is drumming up business from as far away as Canada and New York.

Just 26 years old, Harms was born in Evanston, Chicago, and his family moved to Camp Verde when he was 10. “I went to South Verde High School and after graduation enrolled in The Conservatory of Recording Arts and Science in Phoenix.”

Brimming with a huge volume of talent, Harms accepted an internship in Los Angeles that became a fulltime job.

“I started from the bottom doing an internship with the legendary Rick Rubin at his studio, Shangri-la in Malibu and also Barefoot Record-

ing.  I worked both places before taking a full-time position with Shangri-la,” he said. “I met a lot of cool people. Along with making coffee, cleaning toilets, sweeping the floors and wrapping cables, I once made tomato soup for Neil Young.”

The Shangri-la studio recorded musicians such as Black Sabbath, Kanye West, Ed Sheeran, Andrew Bird, Adele, The Red Hot Chili Peppers and Johnny Cash, to name a few. In addition, Bob Dylan’s old tour bus (converted into studio space) is parked on the property. A four-part television miniseries documentary about the studio aired on Showtime in 2019.

Promotion prevailed as Harms stepped up from assistant audio engineer and into the role of house engineer at Shangri-la. “Then, COVID hit and studio time was cut. Rent was high in Los Angeles, so I came back to Camp Verde and built my studio from scratch.”

It was then that Harms started his YouTube Channel. This move sparked recognition from musicians

Continued on page 29

Producer Max Harms creates in his audio production studio, The Garage, with Mckenna Dibble. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

Business Owner Passionate About Sharing Northern Arizona’s Outdoors

By Stacey Wittig, FBN

It was the perfect storm of events that launched Jessica van Zijll into entrepreneurship. The native Arizonan was living the corporate dream in San Antonio, Texas, as a salesperson traveling internationally when the pandemic hit. International travel came to a screeching halt.

“I learned that doing sales over the phone from my San Antonio apartment wasn’t as fulfilling as traveling internationally to meet with clients,” the young business professional shared.

At the same time, a small business in Flagstaff found itself bulging at the seams because of surges in outdoor recreation participation during the shutdown. A longtime family friend of van Zijll’s, who operated a side business renting compact teardrop RVs, decided the demand had become more than he and his partner could manage on their own.

“I was already considering moving closer to home,” said van Zijll. “All my family is in Northern Arizona.” So, she moved to Flagstaff in summer 2021 and worked for her friend for a year. When another job assignment moved the friend to Hawaii, van Zijll was in the optimal spot to purchase the business.

“The career change fell into place,” she said. “Now I do something I’m passionate about, which is sharing the beauty of Northern Arizona with people from all over.” The new entrepreneur rebranded the business as Elevated Camping Experience and modified the business model.

“I started with his four travel trailers and expanded to the seven I currently have in my fleet,” she said. Five of the seven are teardrop campers, while two are a bit larger to meet the needs of families.

“Elevated Camping Experience is the only company in Northern Arizona renting this type of big comfort with a tiny footprint.” She says guests enjoy warm nights in a comfortable queen-sized bed tucked inside a mobile shell that offers protection from the elements. Additionally, the camping trailer boasts ample onboard storage and amenities for added convenience and comfort.

She adds that the trailers’ small footprints are light on the land and campsites are contained with easy setup and cleanup processes. The small

profile also offers the flexibility and maneuverability to fit into unique and remote places.

“By focusing on Leave No Trace principles, our clients can have this kind of experience, and we make sure it’s done in a healthy and sustainable way.”

Trash bags, cleaning supplies and biodegradable toilet paper are provided. Each camper unit has laminated “Leave No Trace” educational materials, including instructions on handling human waste in the woods.

Besides “Tow It Yourself” services, van Zijll offers trip planning, delivery and campsite setup. “I walk the site and pick up any trash before the campsite setup,” she explains. “And then I do the same after I retrieve the camper. I want to leave it better than I found it. Small impact piles up, and it’s super important to me that my business doesn’t impact the outdoors.”

National Forest Campgrounds near Lake Mary and Mather Campground at the Grand Canyon are some of the most popular places for her setup services. “I like to keep things customizable and get a feel for what they want to see before recommending a campsite.”

To ensure customers have a memorable and comfortable camping experience, van Zijll asks for feedback and adjusts accordingly. “I’ve added amenity options such as fire pits, tables, chairs and games like cornhole and paddleboards.”

Van Zijll makes sure that customers know how to use the hitch and tow the camper before they drive away. “At only 1,000 pounds, they are lightweight and easy to maneuver. If you have a hitch [on your vehicle], you can probably tow it.”

Looking to the future, van Zijll sees Elevated Camping Experience evolving to add stationary units. She also aspires to expand by adding an employee beyond her cleaning crew. “I would love to offer a position to join me in this exciting business. Then, we could expand the number of people we’re sending out.”

Van Zijll says Northern Arizona is the perfect place for her business. “It offers incredible access to the outdoors.” FBN

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Jessica van Zijll offers her Elevated Camping Experience to those who want to explore the outdoors.

Photo by Stacey Wittig

BY BONNIE STEVENS, FBN

Are You Off Balance?

When legendary Phoenix television anchorwoman Mary Jo West spoke to an audience of businesswomen in Sedona last month, she told them she did not know the “B” word when she was working in news. That word was “Balance.”

In an interview with Jim Heath of JimHeath.TV, she described her typical workday in a big market with the pressure of ratings along with the added weight she felt to succeed for the benefit of other women at a time when glass ceilings were being shattered in newsrooms and other male-dominated workplaces.

“Yes, my day might start by speaking at a 6:00 a.m. Kiwanis Club in Sun City, a school at 9:00, a Rotary Club at noon, then pick up my assignment for a story that afternoon.

I co-anchored the 5:00 and 6:00 and sometimes would go back out at night and do another story before co-anchoring the 10:00 newscast. Four times a year there would be the all-important sweeps and I started the unhealthy habit of doing 5 part series during that time that I would produce myself. This resulted in my spending

the night at the station during those rating periods to get the series done in time. Needless to say, I had an inflated sense of self-importance of not wanting to let down the women in our business, so I tried to do it all. My marriage died and so did my mental health. I never learned to say no.”

West’s experience demonstrates the painfully high price we pay for not putting ourselves first, not finding balance in our lives and not saying no when we need to. Sadly, too many of us still need to hear this message today. Whether we fear the disappointment of our bosses, clients, associates, family members or friends, or were raised to selflessly serve others, we struggle with being OK with putting ourselves first.

That’s why I love hanging out with PeaceFull Living founder Roberta Hughes. Roberta teaches in-person, online and on-demand yoga, meditation and Pilates classes. She is an entrepreneur, a parent and a daughter with a full life and a full schedule, but somehow, she never appears rushed or impatient. Whatever she is doing, she is there fully and peacefully. She says taking care of yourself and living

peacefully takes practice. It also takes discipline. “Don’t cancel on yourself,” she says, reminding us to keep those appointments we make with and for ourselves.

I know I struggle with this to the point of feeling like I need a really solid reason for turning someone else down, especially when I can just reschedule with myself later, even though I rarely do. I actually practice saying no and state my case out loud to the mirror. Unfortunately, the mirror tells me that my reason sounds lame. It does! But the truth is, we don’t need a reason and we certainly don’t need a reason that can stand up against someone else’s will or interrogation or the mirror!

Mary Jo West points out that balance may include having a sense of humor. As a young, laser-focused reporter in the ‘70s, the same decade that Burt Reynolds posed as the centerfold model for Cosmopol itan magazine, West found herself interviewing him. Being the consummate professional, she did not allow his dashing good looks, mischievous “Smokey

and the Bandit” smile or centerfold-worthy physique creep into her mind.

And that’s when he dipped her back and went in for a passionate kiss.

After regaining her footing, she smoothed her dress and continued, seemingly unfazed, through the interview. I know you’re thinking, “What? Mary Jo, are you a robot?” The answer is no, she wasn’t a robot, but she was probably concerned about what others might think and then acted accordingly.

Today, she offers a different response. “I would say, ‘Relax and enjoy it! The heck with the interview!’”

Sometimes being balanced means allowing ourselves to be off balance, and laughing about it. FBN

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

“Four times a year there would be the allimportant sweeps and I started the unhealthy habit of doing 5 part series during that time that I would produce myself. This resulted in my spending the night at the station during those rating periods to get the series done in time. Needless to say, I had an inflated sense of self-importance of not wanting to let down the women in our business, so I tried to do it all. My marriage died and so did my mental health. I never learned to say no.”

Governor Hobbs Opens Rockin’ River Ranch State Park

KBy Stan Bindell, FBN

ayaking, hiking, fishing, birding, horseback riding, mountain biking and picnicking will be more available for locals and visitors now that Rockin’ River Ranch State Park in Camp Verde has opened.

Yavapai County Supervisor James Gregory said he is happy about the new park because it offers all these forms of recreation and will bring more tourism dollars into the community. Gregory was part of a news conference to kick off the opening of the park on Feb 8. The park opened to the public the following day and is now open Fridays through Sundays.

“The park will help with economic development and bringing more jobs to the Verde Valley,” said Gregory. “It’s a very nice location and everybody should come look at it.”

Rockin’ River Ranch State Park is located at the confluence of the Verde River and West Clear Creek, offering a lush riparian area with mesquite, cottonwood and sycamore trees providing shade.

Gregory said he is happy that the park will keep the land near the Verde River from being developed.

Rockin’ Ranch State Park is the first state park to open in eight years, but

two other parks are planned: One is Glassford Hill State Park in Prescott Valley and the other is the Upper Verde River Headwaters State Park in Chino Valley.

“Anytime we can have additional open space with more recreation and trails, it’s good for the county,” he said.

There are six hiking trails in the

park, with the longest at 1.7 miles.

During the news conference, Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs praised the opening of Arizona’s 33rd state park. “As a born and raised Arizonan,

I share a deep appreciation for the stunning natural beauty of our state that is at the heart of the Rockin’ River Ranch. I know so many Arizo-

Continued on page 25

Arizona’s newest state park was once a horse boarding ranch. The 209-acre property features trails and white cliffs along the Verde River. Photo by Stan Bindell

Sedona Film Festival Celebrates Henry Mancini’s 100th Birthday

By V. Ronnie Tierney, FBN

Aletter written in 1961 from actress Audrey Hepburn to the late composer and conductor Henry “Hank” Mancini put his timeless and innovative musical arrangements into perspective.

“A movie without music is like an airplane without fuel, your music has lifted us up and sent us soaring, and everything we cannot say with words or show with action you have expressed for us.  You have done this with so much imagination, fun and beauty.”

Internationally known for his musical scores Moon River, The Pink Panther, Peter Gunn, Itari (The Elephant Walk), Charade, Days of Wine & Roses and more, Mancini’s music and memories penetrated hearts at the Henry Mancini 100th Birthday Celebration at the Sedona International Film Festival.

The multimedia event showcased Mancini’s daughter, Monica, a twotime Grammy nominated singer who sang several songs, including her favorite, Days of Wine & Roses.  “There’s something so haunting and stirring about the song. It’s a beautiful song and

something that stuck with me,” said Monica.  “I was so young at the time it was first recorded, but it was so beautifully crafted and worded by lyricist Johnny Mercer.”  Monica Mancini was accompanied by Grammy-winning Pianist Randy Waldman, who frequently collaborated with Barbra Streisand.

Monica Mancini’s husband and producer, Gregg Field, expounded on Henry’s life and music with personal memories, slides and film clips. “He wasn’t afraid to try new sounds with cool strings, piano and sexy saxophone. He created simple melodies that continue to resonate. Henry couldn’t understand why his music became so popular because it was so simple. He was a very humble man.”

“Gregg worked very hard on his presentation. We crafted it for the occasion and I’m really glad it worked. Working with the Sedona International Film Festival was great,” said Monica.

“We were honored to celebrate 100 years of Henry Mancini and give everyone a walk down memory lane to the soundtrack of so many wonderful films,” said Sedona International Film Festival Executive Director Patrick Schweiss. “Monica Mancini and Gregg

Field gave us a glimpse behind the scenes and gave us some great insights into the musical genius that was Henry Mancini. It was a truly magical night! Brilliant in every way!”

With every seat filled at the Sedona Performing Arts Center, the first public re-recording of the ‘50s theme song Peter Gunn and ‘60s The Pink Panther captivated the audience while showcasing Cuban-American trumpeter Arturo Sandoval, American jazz musician and bandleader Herbie Hancock, record producer Quincy Jones and saxophonist Plaz Johnson.

“I found that the way they highlighted Henry Mancini’s songs along with the movies was so enjoyable. Also learning about his life and the story behind his success was so interesting,” said actress Rose Schatz Glinsky of Sedona. “Monica’s voice was impeccable, perfect pitch and pianist Randy Waldman did a wonderful job of accompanying.  I really had a great time.”

Mancini was born outside of Cleveland on April 16, 1924. His talent earned him 20 Grammy awards, four Oscars, one Golden Globe and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Pancreatic cancer took his life in 1994. He

was married to Ginny Mancini, who sang in all of Mancini’s films. They had three children, a son, Chris, and twin daughters, Monica and Felice.

The Mancini family is planning a big 100th birthday celebration, which will take place at the Hollywood Bowl in June. “It was his home venue. He worked the Hollywood Bowl every

other year until he passed. It was his homebase where he would perform,” said Monica.

“Through films and stories, we want people to see the face behind Henry Mancini’s music. We want people to see it wasn’t music created out of thin air, but the person who wrote it,” she said.

Continued on page 27

A commemorative postage stamp honoring Henry Mancini was issued on April 13, 2004. Photo by

Theatrikos Comedy to Support Education, Low-Income Homes

By Betsey Bruner, FBN

An important theater date is approaching in Flagstaff: On Thursday night, March 28, theatergoers will have an opportunity to enjoy what is being called a “hilariously divine farce,” while contributing to two local non-profits – Flagstaff Rotary Club and Habitat for Humanity of Northern Arizona.

The Flagstaff Rotary Club will be hosting its Second Annual Theatrikos Night Out with a production of “The Gods of Comedy,” the night before the play begins a run from March 29 through April 21 at Theatrikos Theatre Company on West Cherry Ave.

All proceeds from the Theatrikos performance will be divided equally between the Rotary and Habitat organizations, said Chris Verrill, executive director of Theatrikos Theatre Company.

“In three ways, the Rotary Club of Flagstaff, Habitat for Humanity and Theatrikos Theatre Company partnership is a perfect example of Flagstaff residents, businesses and organizations working together to make our community a better place to live,” said Verrill. “Habitat for Humanity and Rotary both do great work in Flagstaff, around the country and around the world.”

Verrill has been a Rotarian for 23 years and his father was a Habitat volunteer for years.

“At Theatrikos, it is our honor and privilege to be able to support these excellent non-profits,” he said. “Plus, from a business and marketing standpoint, this partnership generates publicity that introduces new patrons to live theatre in Flagstaff. It’s not just win, win, it’s win, win, win.”

The Flagstaff Rotary Club, which was founded in 1921 and was the third Rotary Club in Arizona, has long taken on sustainable projects, from literacy and peace, to water and health, to providing basic needs such as clothing, food and shelter.

In the past, the club has purchased laptops for the new Killip School STEM Lab, built wheelchair ramps on the Hopi Reservation, provided money for the Navajo Water Project, supported

landscaping at Ponderosa School, raised funds for Northland Hospice and awarded four Rotary Club Global Grant projects in Mexico.

“This the second time we have done this event, and the first time we met with a good deal of success,” said Carla Viola, who is a Rotarian and the event chair for Theatrikos Night Out. “We would like to do even better this time.”

In addition to the staging of “The Gods of Comedy,” the event includes complimentary snacks and beverages, a no-host wine bar and a silent auction. “Also, NAU’s Rotaract club assists us with projects like the ramp building and fundraising,” Viola said. “There is also a high school club, Interact at FALA, which we are associated with, which will be helping us sell tickets for the Theatrikos event. These clubs are assisted by Rotary to develop leadership skills and a service mentality.” Habitat for Humanity was founded in Flagstaff in 1976, one of 13 affiliates that serve diverse rural and urban communities throughout Arizona. The vision of the non-profit is to create “affordable homeownership opportunities for those in need, building strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter,” according to the local Habitat for Humanity website. Currently volunteers and staff, working through the Starter Home Program, are involved in building homes in Flagstaff and two homes in Havasupai.

“We are thrilled to partner with the Rotary Foundation and Theatrikos for the second year in a row,” said Eric Wolverton, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Northern Arizona. “It is wonderful to host this event in partnership so that participants can feel good knowing they are supporting the creation of workforce housing, civil service with Rotary and the arts with Theatrikos. Habitat is grateful to Theatrikos and the incredible ensemble of community actors that invite us each year!” FBN

Tickets for “The Gods of Humanity” fundraising event can be purchased at flagstaffrotary.com.

Flagstaff Rotary Club volunteers built wheelchair ramps on the Hopi Reservation’s Third Mesa.

Courtesy photo

Prescott Fine Art Attracts Artists, Students, Shoppers

PBy Stan Bindell, QCBN

rescott Fine Art, located in Pine Ridge Marketplace (formerly Prescott Gateway Mall), offers artwork by a dozen artists as well as art classes for the public. Tamara Holcum, the art gallery owner, operator and artist, is a Certified Bob Ross Instructor. Many remember Ross and his art program, which aired on PBS for 31 seasons. Holcum is only one of 10 artists in

Arizona trained in the Ross methods and the only artist with that training in the Quad Cities. The Ross philosophy is that everyone can paint if they’re willing to get the proper instruction and practice.

Holcum was trained at the Ross site in Muncie, Indiana, where the PBS program was filmed. Upon completion, she was given her certificate in the very room where Bob filmed the show.

Holcum’s paintings adorn part of two walls in the gallery, showcasing mountains and waterfalls. One painting is of a lion she took a photograph of when she was in Kenya. She often paints from her photos. She also has a bird painting series. About 95% of her paintings are oil, and she paints in the window of the gallery, where passersby can experience her creations as they come to life, stroke by stroke.

“Some people are intimidated by art, but we want people to feel welcome,” she said.

Holcum loves to give visitors a tour of the gallery, telling something about each of the 12 artists who have their work displayed.

Prescott Fine Art (PFA) has some high-end artwork; however, Holcum emphasizes that much of the artwork is affordable. She encourages people to come in to see some unique art gift ideas. Several of the artists also offer prints of their work.

Eleven of the dozen artists whose art is exhibited in the gallery are from the Prescott area; the only one who isn’t local is international art dealer Terry Kettenhoffer.

Prescott Fine Art offers a four-hour painting class that costs $65 and art students will leave with a completed art piece. Another popular event is birthday painting parties. PFA also offers private lessons, girls’ nights out and date nights for painters. “People love our paint parties,” said Holcum.

The best part of the business, she says, is that

she gets to do what she loves and bring painting to the masses.

“Those in the art classes have tears in their eyes when they leave because they can’t believe what they’ve done,” she said. “I love that I’m around art every day and I’m building a community of artists.”

Nature paintings are popular items at PFA, and Prescott photographer Michael McDermott has his wildlife photos displayed. Heather Spencer, another Prescott photographer, showcases her nature photos in necklaces. Wood art and jewelry art are other forms displayed at PFA.

Holcum, who previously owned a gallery in Scottsdale, chose Pine Ridge Marketplace because of its foot traffic. She was excited that the new owners of the mall have plans to bring in more stores.

“People come in every day and tell us, ‘We are so glad you are here because you have brought color to the mall,” she said.

Currently, PFA is at capacity with its 12 displayed artists and has a waiting list for 10 more. “There is a big need since the Prescott Art Market closed in May,” she said. “We signed up six artists on the first day.”

PFA often invites guest teachers in to mentor art students. PFA also has paint supplies, including starter kits, available for purchase. QCBN

For more information, call PFA at 928-910-6545.

Holcum’s paintings adorn part of two walls in the gallery, showcasing mountains and waterfalls. One painting is of a lion she took a photograph of when she was in Kenya. She often paints from her photos. She also has a bird painting series. About 95% of her paintings are oil, and she paints in the window of the gallery, where passersby can experience her creations as they come to life, stroke by stroke.

Prescott Fine Art owner Tamara Holcum is a Certified Bob Ross Instructor who features her artwork along with that of other local artists. The store and gallery, located in the Pine Ridge Marketplace, offers supplies, painting parties and lessons. “I love that I’m around art every day and I’m building a community of artists,” she said. Photos by Stan Bindell

Which Hearing Aids are Right for Me?

By Jeff Lane, Au.D.

The world of hearing aids can be intimidating. With the multiple manufacturers and models, it can feel akin to purchasing a vehicle. A minority of adults with hearing loss are actually fit with hearing aids, while the average length of time between noticing an issue and seeking treatment is seven years. Fortunately, licensed providers are available to act as guides, with guides being the key word. While providers are very knowledgeable and reliable sources, the question of which type of hearing aid is best suited for an individual is highly dependent on lifestyle and desires. Selecting amplification should be a collaborative experience.

INSIDE THE EAR OR BEHIND?

At the most basic level, one must choose between hearing aids that are contained entirely within the ear or sit on top of the ear. One style is not superior to the other in terms of sound quality or processing power, but each does have its own advantages and disadvantages. An in-the-ear (ITE) style is custom-molded to fit the patient’s ears specifically. Thus, an ITE aid can be quite comfortable and easy to insert for those with

dexterity or vision issues. They can also be more discrete, depending on the size of the shell, if cosmetics are a concern. However, as they completely fill the ear canal, patients with better hearing in the low frequencies can feel “plugged up,” and experience difficulty adjusting to their own voice. ITEs can also be more fragile and are not a viable option for those with chronic middle ear issues.

The other style is one that has the hearing aid resting on top of the ear between the skull and pinna. Sound is delivered to the ear canal via either a thin wire (receiver-in-the-canal (RIC)) or tubing and an earmold (behindthe-ear (BTE)). The degree of hearing loss may act as the determining factor on occasion, as those with a profound hearing loss would need the power a BTE aid provides. However, most patients should be able to use an RIC aid. An RIC aid is advantageous in that it does not fill the entire canal, providing for a more natural sound quality. They are also highly durable and easy to maintain. One feature exclusive to nonITE aids is the option of a rechargeable battery. Disadvantages of this style are that it can be more difficult to put on and it can be more visible. The cost difference is usually negligible between ITE and non-ITE aids.

HOW FANCY SHOULD THEY BE?

Once the style is chosen, the next decision is level of technology. As with any electronics, there is a range of how advanced hearing aids can be. Noise is going to be the most important factor in choosing a level. All levels of hearing aids produced by a given manufacturer will provide the same sound quality and amplify 360 degrees when in quiet. Thus, if the patient is elderly and spends the majority of their waking hours watching TV, entry-level hearing aids will suffice.

Those who are younger and are in more challenging listening environments will derive more satisfaction from a fancier aid. First, there are going to be more programs and algorithms available for reducing background and wind noise. For example, a standard-level aid may have three programs designed to improve listening ability in noise and nothing to filter out wind. The advanced level may have five programs and an algorithm for wind, and premium even more. Second, the fancier a hearing aid becomes, the more automatic its function. All levels possess an automatic program, which allows the

hearing to analyze your environment and self-adjust. A fancier hearing aid will have more modes from which it can automatically choose. In essence, the artificial intelligence becomes more precise. Finally, higher-level hearing aids have more directionality. An entry-level aid will either amplify all around the patient or directly in front of them. But what if the room is noisy and the talker is off to the right? More advanced hearing aids are able to focus on specific points around the body, with the number of points correlated with the level.

A hearing health provider can offer tailored guidance and answer questions about the minutiae. But the above can function as a primer for the start of the research process. Possessing a firm grasp of amplification needs and desires will help ensure the best possible outcome. FBN

Trinity Hearing Center is located at 1330 N. Rim Dr., Suite B in Flagstaff. For more information, visit the website at TrinityHearing. net. Jeff Lane is a doctor of audiology with a passion for improving the lives of others. Dr. Lane may be reached at 928-522-0500 or at audio@trinityhearing.net.

At the most basic level, one must choose between hearing aids that are contained entirely within the ear or sit on top of the ear. One style is not superior to the other in terms of sound quality or processing power, but each does have its own advantages and disadvantages.

ADDRESS

Floodplain Project to Have Transformational Effect on Flagstaff

Flagstaff City Hall played host to the first Flagstaff Senate field hearing in 30 years when, on Feb. 15, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly convened a hearing of the Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure, which he chairs. This subcommittee has jurisdiction over the Water Resources Development Act. Senator Kelly requested testimony from the Army Corps of Engineers, City of Flagstaff, Navajo

County and the Pascua Yaqui tribe. The common element between the three projects discussed is that all involve the Army Corps of Engineers and all are in a small, rural or underserved community.

I testified on behalf of the City of Flagstaff regarding the Rio de Flag Flood Control Project after the testimony of Army Corps District Commander Colonel Andy Baker. The city, Colonel Baker and his staff,

and BNSF Railway work closely together on this project that has been 23 years in development. The delays are mainly because of the complexity of design, complexity of agreements between partner agencies and organizations, and funding for the project. Maps and project descriptions can be found on the city’s website. Rio de Flag Flood Control Project | City of Flagstaff Official Website (az.gov)

Three major project components

When this project is completed, it will have a transformational effect on our town. First, it will remove more than half of our residents and over 1,500 structures from the flood plain including Northern Arizona University and City Hall. Second, it will allow people, for the first time in many of their lifetimes, to make improvements to their homes and businesses in the Southside neighborhood that they haven’t been able to make in decades because they lie in the flood plain.

have been constructed to date, including a large detention basin on the Clay Wash reach, a bridge structure in the upper reach, and a large culvert under Butler Avenue. The city is approaching final plans and specs that will allow the project to be advertised for bid. Property is being acquired to construct the project, including property owned by BNSF Railway. City staff is engaged in complicated negotiations with the railroad on several Construction Maintenance Agreements for project approval and property rights. The goal is to have this project out to bid in early 2025 and begin construction by spring 2025.

The city received the final $52 million of federal funding for construction in FY 2020. Thus far, $84 million in federal funds have been committed to this project and the city has contributed $22 million as part of its cost share. Both of Arizona’s Senators have been instrumental in not only

getting this project funded, but in ensuring it continues to move forward through the Army Corps.

When this project is completed, it will have a transformational effect on our town. First, it will remove more than half of our residents and over 1,500 structures from the flood plain including Northern Arizona University and City Hall. Second, it will allow people, for the first time in many of their lifetimes, to make improvements to their homes and businesses in the Southside neighborhood that they haven’t been able to make in decades because they lie in the flood plain. Third, it will eliminate costly flood insurance requirements for many residents and, finally, it will allow for significant economic development. In short, this project will transform our city and the lives of many, many residents. FBN

Back2Basics Outdoor Adventure Recovery Providing Life Skills to Those in Recovery

By Roy DuPrez

At

Back2Basics Outdoor Adven-

ture Recovery, we are known for our unique use of outdoor adventures to help young men recover from addiction. However, the lessons they learn every day in our many programs in Flagstaff offer a variety of life skills these young men will use in their daily lives for years to come. Here are a few of the ways we are helping our clients overcome addiction and reacclimate themselves to the world around them.

INDEPENDENT LIVING EDUCATION

During addiction, many people are codependent. By learning to live independently, these individuals will create a sense of self-reliance, accountability and resilience. By building life skills such as time management, household budgeting and even household maintenance, individuals in recovery will gain confidence in their ability to navigate challenges that arise any given day without turning to substances. Embracing

independence encourages individuals to be accountable in their choices and empowers them to build a fulfilling life outside of addiction. By embracing their independence, individuals in recovery can create a sense of autonomy and stability that strengthens their commitment to sobriety and will help foster long-term success.

COOKING

Learning to cook and make meals for oneself can be an important transformative tool for people in the recovery process. By taking control of their meals and nutrition, individuals can create a sense of self-care. Cooking provides outlets for creativity and relaxation, helping to redirect energy away from addictive behaviors. Engaging in the preparation of their own meals can also help foster a deeper connection to the food they are putting in their bodies. Doing so helps promote healthier eating habits, and many people in recovery need to replenish many nutrients and minerals lost during the height of addiction. By cooking for oneself, individuals in recovery not only

provide nourishment for their bodies but it also nurtures their minds, helping lay a foundation for sustained wellness over time.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Getting involved in community service activities can be a powerful tool for individuals during the recovery process as it offers a sense of purpose, fulfillment and connection. Giving back to the community they live in shifts the person’s focus from their own issues to people who are dealing with struggles of their own. By being active in these services, people in recovery can build empathy and compassion for others that may have been absent during the height of their addiction. Community service also provides individuals with social connections and exposes them to new support systems and friendships, which leads to reduced feelings of loneliness. Serving other people in recovery will build important tools they need in life such as accountability and responsibility, reinforcing the critical aspect of making positive life choices while maintaining their sobriety.

YOGA

Practicing yoga provides physical and mental health benefits for those recovering from addiction. Through the holistic approach of yoga, these exercises help with mindfulness, inner strength and self-awareness, which are essential components to overcoming addiction. The practice of yoga provides a safe space for people to release tension and boost their physical well-being. With an emphasis on breathing and meditation, yoga teaches people going through recovery how to manage stress, cravings and anxiety to help empower them and navigate the many challenges of getting sober. Participating in yoga classes can also create a sense of community and support, helping individuals make friendships with like-minded people who want to become healthier. By adding yoga into their everyday routines, people in recovery can use this exercise system to heal, find balance and build a sense of purpose.

By learning everyday life lessons, the men in the Back2Basics program are preparing themselves for life after

the program. They are learning how to be independent and accountable in all aspects of their lives. By living out the lessons they learn at Back2Basics, these young men are setting themselves up for success and a sober life ahead. FBN

Roy DuPrez, M.Ed., is the CEO and founder of Back2Basics Outdoor Adventure Recovery in Flagstaff. DuPrez received his B.S. and M.Ed. from Northern Arizona University. Back2Basics helps young men, ages 18 to 35, recover from addiction to drugs and alcohol. 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.

Becky Daggett is the mayor of Flagstaff.

Exploring the City of Seven Wonders

By Ryan Randazzo

Spring is officially here, and there is no better time for Flagstaff locals to take advantage of their City of Seven Wonders and the amazing cultural and geological attractions that make this a special place to live. Visitors from around the world plan trips of a lifetime to see things like Grand Canyon National Park in this part of our state. The people who call Flagstaff home don’t have to renew their passport to see this natural wonder. They can do it with a 90-minute drive.

March and April are the ideal time to make that trip for Flagstaff residents. There’s still a chance of snow along the jagged canyon cliffs, which is one of the few things that can improve upon the stunning scenery. Park visitation increases through the summer, peaking in July, the height of summer road trips. That means Grand Canyon National Park is less crowded now than it will be for months to come, and it will be November before Flagstaff residents again have the park this much to themselves.

A presidential declaration last year designated three separate tracts of land around Grand Canyon as the Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni – Ances-

tral Footprints of the Grand Canyon National Monument. One of the areas included in the new monument is the land around Tusayan near the entrance of the South Rim.

The U.S. Forest Service offers a guide to historic places within the new monument that might be new to locals. The list includes locations such as Red Butte, a prominent landmark that is central to multiple Tribal creation stories. If the forest roads are dry, this spot offers a short but steep hike to a fire lookout tower. Historic sites like the Hull Cabin, the oldest surviving cabin near the Grand Canyon’s south rim, and the former Apex Logging Camp also are within the new monument.

Learn more here: https://www.fs.usda. gov/detailfull/kaibab/home/?cid=FSEPRD1129246&width=full

While Arizona is getting national attention for designating a new national monument to honor indigenous history, Flagstaff has a commendable record of recognizing sacred places with the Wupatki and Walnut Canyon national monuments.

Both sites offer rich history of indigenous culture, and the rare opportunity to walk among the rooms where ancient people laid their heads at night. Modern residents of Flagstaff who live with contemporary conveniences

like heated homes can marvel at the ingenuity it required to build the stone rooms and thrive in the Northern Arizona environment without such amenities. Visiting these sites with children during spring is an ideal time to ask them questions such as how they think people were able to get along without things like heated cars and down jackets. The Junior Ranger programs at the monuments offer children a chance to explore such questions about these serene landscapes where ancient people settled.

The next stop on the Seven Wonders tour is Oak Creek Canyon, where the Manzanita Campground has been open since February and the Pine Flat Campground West opens April 12. This is another site people travel from afar to see. Enjoy the ability to take a 40-minute drive through one of the state’s most picturesque canyons to see it from Flagstaff.

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument also ranks among the city’s wonders, and like Grand Canyon, can be among the most breathtaking landscapes in the region this time of year if you’re lucky enough to catch it with a dusting of snow.

The San Francisco Peaks still offer downhill skiing and snowboarding this time of year, but spring also is the

March and April may be the

time to start getting in shape for those who plan to hike Humphreys Peak, the highest point in Arizona, sometime later this year once the hiking trails are passable.

The seventh and final wonder of our city is the enchanting ponderosa pine forest that envelopes our community, helps us rank among the cleanest air in the country and offers hiking, biking,

snowshoeing and other recreational opportunities. Be sure to make the most of it this spring. FBN

For additional information, please visit the official Visitor Center in the historic train station at 1 E. Route 66, or visit discoverflagstaff.com.

Ryan Randazzo is the media relations and project manager for Discover Flagstaff.

ideal months to visit the Grand Canyon, as visitation numbers are lower then and there’s still a chance to see this wonder with a blanket of snow. Courtesy photo

Considering the Eighth Wonder of the World and Housing

By Chris Hallows

Albert Einstein once said, “Compound interest is the eighth wonder of the world. He who understands it, earns it … he who doesn’t … pays it.”

Stability, comfort, privacy, security, community and personal expression are some of the top non-financial reasons for home ownership. While these are certainly all very compelling and vary in priority from each homeowner, the “eighth wonder of the world,” as Einstein called it, has massive impact to all homeowners as home appreciation is compounding interest. Yes, markets move in cycles, and we can get caught up in the minor movements of the moment, but with a big picture mindset, the value of home appreciation to a homeowner’s net worth is staggering.

WHERE IT HAS BEEN, WHERE IT IS GOING

Arizona finds itself in the “Mountain Region” (see chart) and has experienced some of the highest real estate appreciation in the country, well above the national average. Median Home Price in Arizona in 1990 was approximately $79,700. Median Home Price in Arizona wrapping up in 2023 was $429,900, with Flagstaff, of course, outpacing that with a median price of $588,000. My objective isn’t to dissect the affordability differences of 30 years ago vs.

TELESCOPES continued from page 8

moon, even a modest lunar telescope can easily beat the biggest Earthbased ones.

Called “MoonLITE” it would be deployed by one of the planned robot lander missions, which NASA is starting to send to the moon this year. The team has already been funded by NASA to study the possibility of deploying a much larger lunar VLA using one of NASA’s planned Artemis crewed missions.

“There’s been very little astronomy done from the surface of the moon up until now,” said van Belle. “This would make the lunar surface into a major astronomical facility.”

This work is an example of how Lowell Observatory’s significant historic research is continuing on in active study. “Our visitors are always excited to talk with professional astronomers, something Lowell is uniquely positioned to offer to guests,” said Observatory Director Jeff Hall. And visitors will be able to enjoy an enhanced learning experience later this year, when the new Astronomy Discovery Center opens. Festivities are being planned for Nov. 8-16. FBN

now, but rather to stand in awe of the hundreds of thousands of dollars with significant financial impact to those homeowners. In my 15 years of mortgage lending, I’ve seen Northern Arizona homeowners utilize their equity in a variety of life-changing ways.

Here’s a brief list of some of these different uses of equity I’ve seen over

the years:

ƒ Home expansion and improvement

ƒ Using for business startup

ƒ Supplementing retirement income

ƒ Using toward family education

ƒ Using to help family purchase their own homes

ƒ Passing on as inheritance as gen-

erational wealth with special tax protections

Homeownership can be a family/ community affair with the value of that equity permeating far past the individual homeowner. We don’t have a crystal ball of future appreciation, but we do know that Arizona has maintained its status as a Top 10 population-growth state for close to the last decade and best guesses don’t have that changing anytime soon. Based on national appreciation, forecasts modeling a slightly lower than Arizona average sales price, the net worth impact and compounding appreciation of homeownership over

the next five years appears extremely bright.

Thus, the impact of Einstein’s eighth wonder of the world will undoubtedly continue to positively impact generations of future Northern Arizona homeowners. FBN

For additional information or to schedule an appointment, visit ChrisHallows.Benchmark. us or call 928-707-8572. The Flagstaff location is 824 W Rte 66 Suite A-3.

Chris Hallows is the branch manager and senior mortgage advisor of Benchmark Mortgage Flagstaff. NMLS 306345 Ark-La-Tex Financial Services, LLC NMLS 2143 |Equal Housing Lender

Top Left: An upgraded one-meter telescope for the Navy Precision Optical Interferometer (NPOI) undergoes daytime testing. Photo courtesy of Gerard van Bell

Top Right: When seen from above, the layout of the Y-shaped array on Anderson Mesa is revealed. Image courtesy of Google Maps Bottom Right: Hardware components are used to collect and align light from NPOI’s telescope array. Photo courtesy of Gerard van Bell

Allergies Got You Down?

By Christina Kovalik

With springtime comes the beautiful blooming flowers, trees and plants. With the pollution and added winds picking up, high pollen and dust counts aggravate allergies. Poor dietary and lifestyle choices can increase the burden on the liver, making allergy symptoms worse. Eating a lot of fried, fatty or processed foods, foods that lack nutrients and vitality, will also increase the burden on the liver, creating more allergy inflammatory responses in the body. How do you know if you are showing signs of liver congestion or toxicity? You will have symptoms such as:

ƒ Allergies and skin changes including acne, eczema, wrinkly skin

ƒ Digestive issues such as sluggishness, gas, bloating, loose stools

ƒ Fatigue, low mood, mind fog or forgetfulness

ƒ Weight gain

ƒ Stress, anxiety and trouble sleeping

ƒ Hormone imbalances

Here are a few things that can decrease the histamine response, boost your immune system and benefit or

lessen the burden on the liver.

1. Acupuncture with regular weekly tune-ups can help boost the lung energy (immune system), clear heat in the liver and move the Liver Qi energy to help reduce the severity of symptoms and prevent an allergic response.

2. Nettles tea is a great nutritive herb that helps decrease the histamine reaction.

3. A liver cleanse diet avoiding inflammatory foods can help decrease the severity of allergy symptoms. Not all cleanses are alike. If you have never done a liver cleanse diet, it is important to make sure you are monitored by a physician to avoid any detox reactions.

4. Vitamin C can be increased up to 2-3 grams per day. It is a great antioxidant that scavenges free radicals that are developed when exposed to toxins.

5. Quercitin is a natural antihistamine and antioxidant that can be used daily to help stop a runny nose or reduce phlegm production.

6. N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is a powerful antioxidant that

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benefits detoxification systems, benefits the liver and lung function and will decrease phlegm. It is great for sinus congestion and phlegmy coughs.

7. B-vitamin shots can improve energy, metabolism and cognition, while decreasing stress and boosting the immune system when taken regularly. B vitamins may not be absorbed if you have a compromised digestive system.

8. Lemon water can be consumed daily to cleanse the liver and alkalize the body. Lemon is a great purifier and benefits the liver and digestive functions. If you have a lot of drainage from allergies, hot water with half to a whole lemon, plus a pinch of cayenne and honey to taste, can decrease phlegm, aid a sore throat and boost the immune system.

9. Beeswax salve along with calendula or chaparral herbal salve can be used on the nasal septum to prevent pollen from attaching. It also helps nasal dryness. Saline or homeopathic allergy nasal sprays can also be effective for allergies.

10. Homeopathic allergy zone

Bonnie Stevens' Communication Station is delivering a refreshing, engaging and inspirational vodcast (video podcast) that features Northern Arizona businesses, outdoor adventure and leadership tips twice a month. Zonie Living is sponsored in part by Flagstaff Business News. Go to https://starworldwidenetworks.com/ shows/bonnie-stevens

drops, homeopathic nosodes of environmental plants associated with AZ zone, can be taken daily to help neutralize the histamine affect to native plants that cause many people to be miserable.

Allergy season is here. Know that you don’t have to suffer and there are many ways that acupuncture and natural medicine treatments can benefit and reduce the severity of allergy symptoms. Even if your allergies appear to be

more than seasonal, there are many ways we can prevent and treat them without medications. FBN

Dr. 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.

World’s Oldest Rodeo Unveils Stellar Lineup

By Donna Werking

Prescott Frontier Days, Inc.World’s Oldest Rodeo, is gearing up for its 137th year of thrilling rodeo action. Featuring an array of talented rodeo acts and performances, brought together by top contractors from across the nation, this event promises great family-friendly entertainment. Taking place in Prescott, Arizona, the rodeo spans seven consecutive days, from July 1 to July 7, 2024, with two performances scheduled for Saturday, July 6th.

The highlight of the 2024 specialty acts includes the Broken Spoke Clydesdales, making their annual journey from Winfield, Kansas. These majestic Clydesdales travel nationwide, participating in rodeos, fairs, exhibitions and various events throughout the year.

Tomas Garcilazo, a third-generation Charro from Mexico City, showcases highly developed horsemanship and roping abilities. Barrelman Matt Tarr, immersed in rodeo and livestock from a young age, brings a natural fit to the arena with his lifelong passion for roping. Starting at the tender age of 3, Tarr’s journey led him to become a rodeo entertainer, guided by what he believes to be his true calling from God.

Prescott Frontier Days, Inc. proudly presents its esteemed contracted team members: Hall of fame rodeo announcer Randy Corley, a legend in professional rodeo, is widely respected and trusted. Co-announcer James

PARK continued from page 15

nans, including myself, turn to the outdoors for so many reasons – for sport and recreation, to unplug and reset, find peace and tranquility, just to enjoy – and we are so lucky for the abundant outdoor opportunities in our state. And it is so exciting that we are adding one more by finally opening this park to the public.”

Gov. Hobbs credited Arizona State Parks with purchasing the ranch in 2008 with help from The Nature Conservancy.

Arizona State Parks Board Chair Dale Larsen said the state parks contribute to the overall state economy in a significant way. In 2020, the economic contribution of visitor spending in and around Arizona State Parks, including multiplier effects, was $490 million in sales.

Hobbs said Arizona State Parks and Trails funds outdoor recreation and historic preservation projects statewide. They do this through grant programs that bolster opportunities throughout Arizona and improve access to the outdoors. In fiscal year 2023, more than $20 million was awarded to 94 recipients around the state, including rural and tribal communities.

Horcasitas, hailing from New Mexico, provides critical knowledge and upbeat commentary essential to any rodeo performance, creating a “High Voltage” Rodeo experience. National bullfighter Beau Schueth, a Nebraska native, has claimed his position as a national champion bullfighter. Quirt Hunt, one of Pro Rodeo’s Top Bullfighters, marks his 21st consecutive year with the Prescott rodeo. Kirsten Vold from Vold Rodeo Company, a premier stock contractor, joins for yet another year, accompanied by her reliable pick-up men, Ty Atchison and Dalton Ward, ensuring top-quality stock and confidence in the arena.

Every rodeo season unveils a distinct theme, and the current theme, “Prescott Traditions,” is a heartfelt tribute to the rodeo’s storied history and its significant influence on generations of families and rodeo enthusiasts across the nation. To capture these cherished moments, our rodeo family is invited to submit their stories and photos at www.WorldsOldestRodeo.com/Memory-Catcher.

Join us for a week of unforgettable rodeo experiences and the celebration of enduring traditions. Prescott Frontier Days, Inc. is dedicated to ensuring that the World’s Oldest Rodeo remains an accessible and family-friendly event. We are pleased to announce that general admission tickets for the 2024 Rodeo are priced at an affordable rate. Pricing is available for general admission seating up to $40 per person.

We want to emphasize the importance of purchasing tickets directly through our official website, www.WorldsOldestRodeo.com, to avoid third-party spam websites. Get your tickets March 2024 only at www.WorldsOldestRodeo. com. FBN

For rodeo inquiries, please contact the rodeo office at 928-445-3103 or email info@worldsoldestrodeo.com. The Prescott

rodeo office is located at 840 Rodeo Drive Prescott, AZ 86305.

Donna Werking, Owner, Northern AZ Social LLC. Northern AZ Social, LLC is a premier, full-service agency that specializes in traditional, digital and social media marketing. In 2021, Northern AZ Social, LLC was named 10 Best Social Media Agencies in Arizona. Donna and

her talented team are recognized for their customized programs for a multitude of clients across Northern Arizona. In 2022, she was named TOP 3 marketing agencies in Arizona by SocialAppsHQ and also featured on PBS’s Road Trip Nation as an Arizona leader in her industry. She has aided the marketing efforts of the Prescott Frontier Days - World’s Oldest Rodeo since 2017.

In Camp Verde, the sports complex improvements were funded through a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant and the Copper Chief Trail was funded through the Recreational Trails Fund and the Heritage Fund. Hobbs said these are

prime examples of the community-wide impact Arizona State Parks and Trails has contributed.

“It is because of this impact that my administration has set a goal of building 200 miles of non-motorized trails by 2030, prioritizing

positive impacts to rural economies and increasing recreation access for underserved communities. With this park opening, we are getting started on meeting that goal,” Hobbs said.

She added that the rich history of the Yavapai Apache Nation and

archaeological sites such as Tuzigoot Pueblo, Montezuma Castle and Montezuma Well are great and meaningful ways to explore Arizona’s past. FBN

Talented riders along with the Broken Spoke Clydesdales are expected to deliver memorable performances during Prescott Frontier Days. Courtesy photo

The property includes a historic ranch house, that may become part of the visitor experience. Governor Katie Hobbs calls the area of Rockin’ River Ranch State Park “the gateway to the Verde River, one of the rarest and most diverse riparian areas anywhere in the country.” Photos by Stan Bindell

Grand Canyon Conservancy Announces Katrina Bloemsma as COO

Grand Canyon Conservancy has selected Katrina Bloemsma as its next chief operating officer. Previously, Bloemsma served on the senior leadership team of REI Experiences, a division of REI Co-op. There, she re-engineered the division’s operating model to increase customer engagement and support profitable growth through new opportunities and innovative product scaling.

“This role brings my expertise and my driving passions into perfect alignment,” said Bloemsma. “I could not be more excited to join the Conservancy and serve the park.”

“Katrina’s analytical approach and her passion for our mission make her a perfect fit for Grand Canyon Conservancy,” said Chief Executive Officer Theresa McMullan. “We are not a typical non-profit. We’re also a retailer and outdoor excursion provider. When you

shop with us, your purchase goes towards protecting and enhancing Grand Canyon National Park for present and future generations.”

Grand Canyon Conservancy is the official non-profit partner of Grand Canyon National Park. It raises private funds, operates retail shops within the park, and provides premier guided educational programs about the natural and cultural history of the region. Its mission is to inspire generations of park champions to cherish and support the natural and cultural wonder of Grand Canyon.

“Katrina’s recent work at REI Experiences sits right at this intersection of business and service,” added McMullan, “and her understanding of this dynamic will have an enormous impact on the Conservancy and on visitor experiences at Grand Canyon National Park.” FBN

Headlines 2000 Hair Studio

By Terry Baker

Other Flagstaff-area bowling alleys included:

ƒ The Navajo Ordnance Depot, which built four lanes for its workers in 1944, according to historian John Westerlund.

ƒ In 1961, Roll-A-Bowl opened in Winslow. It burned down in 1983.

ƒ Northern Arizona University installed six bowling lanes in the North Campus field house in the late 1960s, and closed roughly 20 years later.

ƒ Len and Ida Sonka opened Sky-Hi Lanes on Main Street in Sunnyside in 1957, a few months before Starlite. It closed in spring 2000.

Bowling alleys have gone dark across America through the past five decades. In 1980, the U.S. Bowling Congress estimated there were 10,000 U.S. bowling centers. Now, the number is down to about 3,800.

The Arizona State Association of the U.S. Bowling Congress lists 40 certified bowling alleys in Arizona, 24 of them in metro Phoenix. Getto, 62, said he grew interested in buying a bowling center when business conditions flipped and demand exceeded supply.

“I recognized what a great business it can be,” he said.

Now, Starlite is the only game in town and it relies on local bowlers to keep it profitable, including league and recreational bowlers.

A group of league bowlers — Scott Turco, Alex Herring, Franky Lynch and E.J. Ahrendt — were bowling on a snowy Tuesday night even though their league game had been canceled because of the storm. Most of the lanes were empty.

“We have a lot of fun bowling in the league because we don’t take it too seriously,” said Lynch, 34, a financial advisor with Strategic Financial Planning.

Starlite’s revenue split is 50% from bowling, with leagues contributing 15% of the bowling business. The Side Door Lounge adds 25% of revenue, food is about 20%, while arcade games, retail and a pro shop kick in 5%.

Starlite briefly had competition from Bowlski’s 66. It opened with 12 lanes in fall 2022 at Flagstaff Mall but has since closed.

Getto is already gearing up for the 100th nniversary of Route 66 in 2026. He’s planning a giant mural on an outside wall celebrating Flagstaff’s dark-sky heritage with whimsical spaceships shaped like bowling pins and bowling ball planets.

FBN

Bright, colorful bowling balls add the festive atmosphere at Starlite Lanes. Photo by Peter Corbett

STARLITE continued from page 4

Katrina Bloemsma

here, we can do anything in this state.’”

Lowell Observatory’s Clyde Tombaugh, then 24 years old, discovered Pluto in 1930. Its planetary status has long been debated, but Wilmeth points out, “That’s not really the point of this bill. It’s to honor our state heritage, our state history and our strong astronomy background that we have.”

Diane Phelps, a Sedona-based writer of children’s books, recently published “Needle in a Haystack: How Clyde Tombaugh

Found an Awesome New World.” She testified at a House Government Committee meeting on Jan. 31, “Here’s an opportunity for a teacher to lead a discussion with the fact that Pluto is the state planet. [Students] will think that is oh-so-cool!”

Lowell Observatory Chief Operating Officer Dr. Amanda Bosh, whose early days as an astronomer included participation on the team that discovered Pluto’s atmosphere

in 1988, also testified at the Jan. 31 meeting. She pointed out that the benefits of the bill extend beyond inspiration and community pride. “Adopting Pluto as our state planet would signify the importance of state optics, photonics and astronomy, an industry that stretches from Tucson through Phoenix all the way up to Flagstaff,” she said, “and brings in $4.3 annually to the state as noted by the Arizona Technology Council.”

After the Feb. 19 House vote, the bill moved to the Senate, where it was introduced on Feb. 22 and assigned to the Senate Finance and Rules committees for deliberation. From here, it moves to the entire Senate for discussion and voting. If approved, it then goes to Governor Katie Hobbs for final approval and signing into law. This could happen by early spring, adding Pluto to the list of officially recognized emblems of Arizona. FBN

6993 N. Columbine, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, Tel (928) 526-7006 | (928) 526-6231 www.intermountainaz.com | admin@intermountainaz.com

Moonshot Welcomes Jeff Saville as Executive Director

Moonshot is thrilled to announce the appointment of Jeff Saville as the new executive director for the Flagstaff Campus, a move that marks a significant step in the organization’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in Northern Arizona.

With more than a decade of experience in developing and administering business incubation programs, Moonshot officials say Saville is well equipped to take on this role within the Moonshot family.

Outside of his music, Monica said that her dad loved to ski and cook. “He loved to ski, so we would go to Vail, Colorado. He loved to cook, too, so we had memorable Sundays when he would make his favorite dish, pasta.”

An extended play (EP) version of several of Mancini’s songs will be released this year as well.

Exemplifying the immortality of Mancini’s music, Moon River was recently recorded by singer and songwriter Beyonce. Last year, guitarists Eric Clapton and Jeff Beck released their rendition of Moon River. A commemorative 37-cent U.S. postage stamp was issued on April 13, 2004, to honor Mancini.

While in Sedona, Monica said the views were “stunning,” the food was “wonderful” and working with the Sedona International Film Festival was “delightful.”

“The executive director, Pat, had so much on his plate but was so attentive to our needs,” she said. “He is so efficient and so passionate about his job and yet so fun and a pleasure to work with. He is the absolute perfect person for his job.” FBN

The Sedona International Film Festival is now in its 30th year. For more information, visit www.sedonafilmfestival.com or call 928-282-1177.

Jeff Saville

Scott Hathcock, president and CEO of Moonshot, expressed his enthusiasm for the addition of Saville to the team. “As an experienced incubation professional, his skills and expertise align perfectly with our future plans and directives for our Flagstaff Campus. Jeff’s extensive background in incubation, coupled with his prior experience at Moonshot (formerly NACET) from 2008 to 2014, makes him an ideal fit for this role.”

“I am absolutely ecstatic to announce my return to Flagstaff, where my business incubation journey began, and to be part of Moonshot, an incubator that has undergone a phenomenal transformation in the 12 years since I last contributed,” said Saville. “Scott’s visionary leadership has infused the organization with innovation and inspiration, elevating it to new heights. Joining the Moon-

shot team is a thrilling prospect for me, as I am deeply passionate about the organization’s mission.”

In his role, Saville plans to enhance campus activities and entrepreneurial services and resources available to local entrepreneurs and startups. “I am particularly excited about supporting entrepreneurs who courageously embrace significant risks, all in the noble pursuit of creating jobs for our region,” he said. “Moonshot’s dedication to this cause resonates with me, and I can’t wait to bring my energy and commitment to this dynamic team and our partners who make great things happen.”

Prior to accepting this position, Saville was director of Career and Life Design at Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado. He also served as executive director at CEI Gateway Center for Entrepreneurial Innovation at Gateway Community College.

Hathcock says this action signifies Moonshot’s commitment to nurturing the Northland’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. “With this hire, we have just made one giant leap for entrepreneurs in Flagstaff and Northern Arizona. Jeff’s leadership and entrepreneurial expertise will undoubtedly contribute to Moonshot’s continued growth and its role as a catalyst for innovation in the region.” FBN

Arizona House “scoreboard” shows unanimous support for Pluto bill on Jan. 19. Photo by Kevin Schindler

PLUTO continued from page 6

MANCINI continued from page 16

Pianist Randy Waldman, singer Monica Mancini and producer Gregg Field honor Henry Mancini with some of his most famous songs. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney Fresh Focuses Photography

tance into the Sedona festival.

In addition to the two screenings at the Sedona International Film Festival (Feb. 29 and March 2), the documentary and question and answer session with Kish is included as one of the elements in The Glen Canyon Rises Tour, which will have tour dates this month in Utah, Colorado and Flagstaff, 3p.m., March 16, at the Museum of Northern Arizona.

Kish, the daughter of Flagstaff artist Dee Brewer, was raised in Flagstaff and graduated from Coconino High School. She says she was fortunate to live in a city with several renowned photographers who took her under their wings.

“Sue Bennett and John Running were my mentors,” Kish said. “Sue gave me my first camera when I was 17 years old. I grew up in Flagstaff. I’m a Coconino Panther. I am a published photographer for over 30 years and filmmaker for about 10.”

Today, she travels all over the world

giving program.

Aside from creating an environment where workers say they feel nurtured and mentored and visitors say they appreciate the friendly, helpful and fun environment, Lamberson dedicates her time to charities, nonprofit organizations and community development. Currently, she serves as a Stream Steward, adopting the Shultz 1 section of the Rio de Flag for clean-up, monitoring and stewardship; participates on the Downtown Business Alliance board; belongs to Women Empowering Northern Arizona; is a member of the She Wolf Project, devoted to female empowerment; and volunteers for numerous non-profit organizations.

“Outside of my day to day as a shopkeeper in the historic downtown, my work centers around fostering a deep sense of place and interdependence in our mountain town,” said Lamberson, also the co-owner of Bright Side Bookshop. “I believe in this interconnectedness and that by nurturing our relationships to one another and to

on photo shoots.

Kish has also been a river runner for many years, which aided in her explorations for her Glen Canyon film.

“I have been rowing boats down Grand Canyon since 1998, and my first trip was in 1994 with Raechel and JP Running,” she said. “We are all still running the river. I didn’t really know Glen Canyon. It was a thorn in our side to go to Lake Powell because of the dam. But, now I am so glad I’m there to document this historic moment.”

During her efforts to explore the Glen Canyon story and its unveiling as waters receded, she did many journeys with a variety of boats and with new and old friends into the unknown of Lake Powell and to watch the canyon emerge.

Kish published a photographic portfolio of the project in Arizona Highways, The Advocate and Adventure Journal magazines. Her photographs were also exhibited at Northern

the natural world around us, we thrive together.”

Not typically comfortable in the spotlight, Lamberson says the ATHENA recognition has been so warm and welcoming that she is greatly enjoying the honor. “So many friends, colleagues and community members have taken a moment to send congratulations and shine a light on the ways that my time and energy have improved the lives of others in our community. I am so grateful to join this esteemed group of female leaders in our community.”

DEVONNA MCLAUGHLIN

“Receiving the ATHENA Award reminds me that my work is not done and that our community is a better place when we all work together to make positive changes,” said McLaughlin. “I’m committed to continuing to spend my time working to make a difference – through my work at Housing Solutions, as a mom, as a friend and colleague. I look forward to investing in our community and the success of

Arizona University, Hidden Light and Coconino Center for the Arts.

“I did seven trips all together, for about three to four days at a time,” she said, “sometimes with my assistant, Cierra Murrietta, sometimes just me. She helped me capture the story, as much as she could, while working another job. Then we edited the film in my little casita in the back of my Flagstaff home.”

In addition, David Brower is part of the Glen Canyon history. He served as executive director for the Sierra Club from 1952 to 1969. During his term, he had successfully fought to prevent the building of a dam that would have flooded Dinosaur National Monument on the Upper Colorado River. However, he was also serving when a compromise was reached to build a dam and reservoir in the lesser known and recognized Glen Canyon.

“David Brower said it was his biggest mistake to let Glen Canyon go under,”

others for the rest of my life.”

Two years ago, McLaughlin secured funding and identified a Flagstaff motel, which Housing Solutions of Northern Arizona (HSNA) has successfully rehabilitated. The 44 units of transitional housing are now being leased to households experiencing homelessness.

Through her leadership at HSNA, McLaughlin has won several awards, was instrumental in the creation of the Flagstaff City Housing Commission and founded the Flagstaff Tax Credit Coalition, where she works with local non-profits to create an advocacy and educational campaign aimed at promoting the importance of non-restricted taxpayer-directed donations that stay in the community. In addition, her Sharon’s Attic concept is providing revenue to help support the HSNA mission and creating local jobs.

“I have been blessed to work with many amazing women in my career and through my work here in Flagstaff, it’s hard to name just one or two, as I

Kish said. “Maybe we should make plans to let the river flow free now that Lake Powell has hit record lows. I think Mother Nature is telling us something and we should listen for once.”

Creating the documentary in an outdoor environment was challenging.

“When your studio is the outside world, there are always challenges with weather and ever-changing light,” she said. “I think when you live in the elements you learn to keep your equipment clean, but sometimes that sand storm comes and you are screwed. We had one storm that was so bad it broke my tent.”

What is the message that Kish would like to convey to viewers of her documentary?

“That we should never let this happen. We need to respect the land and the people that lived there. I didn’t know much about the canyon except what I saw in photos, songs and books. I didn’t think I would ever see Glen

Canyon in my lifetime, but what I saw was incredibly beautiful. Breathtaking really! When the water levels dropped in the lake, the lowest in history since the Glen Canyon Dam stopped the Colorado River from flowing, I knew I had to explore and document this moment. I’m still going back. I’m not done. That canyon is massive. I need to expose Glen Canyon when I can.”

The Tad Project continues, she added.

“I have exhibited the photos, created TAD TALKS and tours, screened nationally and internationally and now I’m working on a coffee table book,” Kish said. “It’s all about the love for art and advocacy for Glen Canyon. If you like this project and would like to support it, please go to my gofundme: Tad’s Emerging World. Thank you.”FBN

would not be in the position I am now without the support, mentorship and encouragement of dozens of important people in my life,” said McLaughlin. “I would like to thank Helen Hudgens Ferrell, who founded Housing Solutions, hired me and encouraged me to continue to try new things. I also want

to thank Cheryl Blume, a mentor and friend who’s always there to help no matter what.”

McLaughlin says receiving the ATHENA Award is an honor of a lifetime. “I am grateful to the community for this recognition and support. I have

Continued on page 30

Dawn Kish’s documentary, “Tad’s Emerging World – Glen Canyon Exposed,” had its world premiere at the 2022 Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival and its U.S. premiere at the 2023 Telluride Mountainfilm festival. The Glen Canyon Rises Tour will be in Flagstaff, 3 p.m., March 16, at the Museum of Northern Arizona. Courtesy photos

Tad Nichols, for whom the documentary is named, published stunning photographs in his book, “Glen Canyon: Images of a Lost World.”

GLEN CANYON continued from page 3

ATHENA continued from page 1

Housing Solutions of Northern Arizona CEO Devonna McLaughlin thanked the community for the recognition and support. “Receiving the ATHENA Award is truly the honor of a lifetime,” she said. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

around the country and Canada.

“Max Harms has been an invaluable partner to me. He pulled a scene out of thin air and created a network of touring musicians I couldn’t work without,” said Flagstaff country musician Red McAdam. “The Garage is an absolute oasis in the desert, the people he’s managed to bring through Arizona have been so incredibly special and kept me and so many others in the state during periods where we were thinking of leaving. I went on three separate month-long tours with people I met through Max. My entire professional Rolodex and many of my best friends are people I met through him.”

Adding video and photography services to his studio was important to Harms. “They go hand in hand,” he said. “I bought a camera because I wanted to film a documentary about Camp Verde. Then I decided I might as well film some recording sessions and that became a successful match for my work.”

His girlfriend, McKenna Dibble, stepped in to assist with editing video and film. “She does a great job of helping with production and she’s learning fast,” he said.

Though Harms never played an instrument growing up, his dad always had a guitar lying around. “I toyed with it a bit when I was young but nothing really stuck. Then when

I was 19, I picked it up and started taking it more seriously.”  Today, Harms, who is self-taught, can play just about any instrument.

Katie Mae, from Katie Mae & the Lubrication band in Phoenix, says that Harms is an incredibly gifted and talented audio engineer. “I’m very fortunate to call Max a good friend. My band and I recorded our first full-length record with him back in December and it was the most fun I’d ever had recording. I’m proud to say that he is co-producing that record with me, which we are hoping to release this summer. If a musician is passing through Arizona and I like their work, I always encourage them to go see Max. We were one of the first live sessions that he released from The Garage Recording Studio, and I was so blown away by the sound he captured. Since then, I’ve done a lot of work and enjoyed countless good times with Max. I look forward to many, many more.”

Traveling from Applegate, Oregon, singer/songwriter Jason Dea West believes the trip is well worth it. “I waited to film and record my song @ghostyfuntime until I could work with Max Harms,” said West. “It’s a very important song to me and I knew I could trust Max’s expertise to not only capture a powerful video performance but deliver the best sounding audio anyone could ever

ask during a live session. Seriously, nobody has come remotely close to what Max is doing down there in Camp Verde, Arizona.”

In pursuit of his own musical interests, Harms has been recording songs on his YouTube channel and other streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon and Tital.

Free time for Harms is playing with his six-month-old English Bulldog, Townes, who was named after legendary old country singer,

Townes Van Zant. He also likes hunting. Harms can be contacted at mharmsrecording@gmail.com and his Max Harms YouTube Channel, or 847-833-5381.

IN MY SPARE TIME

I like to kayak the Verde River in the spring and summer, hunt in the fall and watch movies a lot during the winter.

HOBBY I HOPE TO PURSUE

I’d like to try making leather goods someday.

ADVICE FOR MY YOUNGER SELF

Have patience. Patience is important and I lacked that when I was young.

MY ROLE MODEL

My mom has been an artist her whole life and has been self-employed. She does blacksmithing, jewelry and pottery. She’s amazing.

MY GUILTY PLEASURE Whiskey. FBN

tinues to gleam from Mars Hill when the sunlight hits it just right, a landmark that has been part of Flagstaff’s skyline for more than 100 years.

Later, after Godfrey moved away, Stanley built the telescope used to discover Pluto and the dome that housed it.

Gabaldon returned home to Flagstaff as the headlining speaker in Lowell Observatory’s I Heart Pluto festival last month. “When she first started writing, her father was so proud of her,” said Coconino County Supervisor for District 1 Patrice Horstman, who now holds the same position that Gabaldon’s dad, Tony Gabaldon, held in the 1990s, following his 16 years as a state senator.

“She remains true to her Flagstaff roots,” said Horstman. “We are very excited that she is here and that she comes back home to talk to folks she was raised with.” Horstman served as an intern for Tony Gabaldon and lived in his attic for a short period after she graduated from law school.

“It is a huge deal to have Flagstaff’s daughter return to us – someone who is so famous and accomplished,” said Flagstaff Mayor Becky Daggett. “The atmosphere is electric! We are so excited to see her.”

Laura Bailey of Gilbert traveled to Flagstaff to meet Gabaldon at The Orpheum Theater. “When I was earning my Bachelor of Science in nursing,

my husband gave me a couple weeks alone to get a lot of my work done,” she said. “But then I started binging on ‘Outlander.’”

Bailey did become a nurse, which is one of the reasons she is a huge fan of the series and the author. “I love fiction and I love how fantasy is interwoven with historic events. You get to learn

about the times and the people.”

Marsha Humphrey of Indianapolis, Indiana, also came to see Gabaldon. Humphrey visits Flagstaff often to see her son, a Northern Arizona University student. But hearing that Gabaldon would be visiting in February was another good reason to jump on a plane. “I love the adventure and I love the

time-travel aspect of her writing.” Reflecting on those first Outlander pages before stepping out on stage in front of more than 500 enthusiastic

fans, Gabaldon said she had no clue what life could be like as a professional novelist. “It’s a lot of fun!” FBN

More than 500 people filled The Orpheum Theater in downtown Flagstaff to hear from Diana Gabaldon. Above left: Laura Bailey, a Gilbert nurse who relates to Claire, one of the main Outlander characters, came to Flagstaff to meet the author and purchase books. Right: Marsha Humphrey of Indiana, also visited to meet Gabaldon and pick up her autographed copies. Photos by Bonnie Stevens

GABALDON continued from page 11

Max Harms’ garage has been called an “oasis in the desert” by musicians who praise his work. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

HARMS continued from page 12

ATHENA continued from page 28 been blessed to collaborate with and call many ATHENAs my friends. It’s amazing to be included in this community of thoughtful, fearless, dedicated and tireless women leaders.”

KATE WYATT NAMED ATHENA

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL

Also at the annual Flagstaff Chamber luncheon, Flagstaff Medical Center Emergency Department Care Coordinator Kate Wyatt received the 2024 ATHENA Young Professional Award. “I am still living on the high energy and love from that day,” she said.

Prior to her work at FMC, she served as the director of human trafficking services at Northland Family Help Center, where she created the Flagstaff Initiative Against Trafficking (FIAT), a community collective of professional service providers and volunteers who seek to end human trafficking through education and awareness. Wyatt has been recognized as the driving force behind local training on human trafficking crimes and has received the “Game Changer” award through the Arizona Anti-Trafficking Network.

“There are so many remarkable women who are achieving amazing things in Flagstaff and I just so appreciate the Chamber putting on this event annually,” said Wyatt. “I have been working as a social worker in Flagstaff since 2013 and have been influenced by outstanding women. I strive to be

a positive, impactful and supportive influence for other women who are working to achieve their goals. Receiving the ATHENA Young Professional Award has certainly bolstered my passion and drive to continue my work in this community.”

The event marked the Chamber’s 35th year of sponsoring the ATHENA Leadership Awards, in which 19 local women were honored.

“Not many things excite me as much as the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting and ATHENA Awards,” said Chamber President and CEO Julie Pastrick. “For more than three decades, the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce has chosen to invest in the spirit of the ATHENA Awards as a way to recognize individuals who might otherwise go unnoticed for the passion and dedication they bring to the workplace and community at large. What a wonderful opportunity we have to honor and celebrate prestigious female leaders from all types of professional careers for the excellence in their chosen fields, their mentorship of others to achieve their career goals and their valuable engagement in community service.”

GRAND CANYON RAILWAY HONORED FOR GREEN PRACTICES

In recognition of exemplary dedication to sustainability and environ-

mental stewardship, the Chamber also celebrates businesses demonstrating outstanding commitment to eco-friendly practices and contributing positively to the community and planet.

At the meeting, Grand Canyon Railway received the Green Business Award for its conversion from diesel fuel to using waste vegetable oil from their kitchen fryers and other Arizona restaurants along with their commitment to pursue an electric-motored railway to replace the steam engine in

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order to preserve the Grand Canyon’s pristine environment.

Nackard Pepsi and Forest Highlands also were nominated for their green business practices.

GOVERNOR ADDRESSES WATER, HIGH-SPEED INTERNET

During the event, Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs addressed the room of community leaders at the High Country Conference Center. She noted that protecting groundwater is a top priority for the state, as water security plays a

fundamental role in investments, future economic development and continued growth.

The Governor also expressed enthusiasm about building infrastructure to deploy technology that will expand high-speed internet access to rural communities. She has stated, “For too long, millions of Arizonans have lacked this access, preventing them from attaining good paying jobs, quality education and even basic healthcare services.” FBN

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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.

Mountain Sports Flagstaff owner Lisa Lamberson expressed deep gratitude to the Chamber, her nominators, fellow ATHENA candidates and the community. “Looking out at this room at all who have gathered to celebrate, I am reminded of the beautiful tangle of community that holds us,” she said. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

was 15 years old. He trained at the East Valley Institute of Technology in Mesa from 2010-2012 under the guidance of Chef Mike Turcotte. The institute teaches high school students from 11 metro Phoenix school districts.

After graduating, Greenhalgh worked several jobs, including about five years at Clever Koi restaurant. He was first at the central Phoenix location and then he opened a second location in Gilbert, where he was executive chef.

Greenhalgh decided to move to Flagstaff to downshift in his work life.

“I was working 100 hours a week in Phoenix and I wanted to enjoy other aspects of life.”

He landed at Brix restaurant in Flagstaff and cooked there for four years before opening Forêt in the historic Anderson Building at 2 S. Beaver St.

The cafe quickly gained a following.

“Everyone who has tried Sam’s French pastries or savory breakfasts understands why Forêt received this well-deserved recognition,” said Trace Ward, Discover Flagstaff executive director. “The Flagstaff restaurant community is celebrating this achievement. Having four recent James Beard semifinalists within walking distance of one another in downtown Flagstaff, coupled with additional fan favorites throughout the

city, builds on the city’s credentials as a dining destination.”

Forêt cafe serves breakfast, brunch and lunch from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. The cafe and its outdoor patio face Phoenix Avenue, just east of Beaver Street.

Forêt is French for forest.

“I enjoy the location,” Greenhalgh said. “It’s quaint and quiet and nice. It’s one of the only places downtown with [free] parking.”

Forêt’s menu includes French pas-

try, eggs Benedict, avocado toast, an omelet and breakfast burrito, as well as a vegetable bowl, chicken schnitzel sandwich, Wagyu beef patty melt, coffee and cocktails.

Greenhalgh said he is working a lot but it’s for himself.

“I do enjoy this lifestyle. I’m off by 6 p.m. and in bed by 9.”

Whether he wins the James Beard Award of not, Greenhalgh said it’s all gravy and an honor just being named a semifinalist.

This is the third year in a row Flagstaff has had at least one James Beard Award semifinalist. Last year, Christian Lowe of Shift Kitchen & Bar was a semifinalist for Emerging Chef and Proper Meats + Provisions was a semifinalist for Outstanding Restaurant.

In 2022, Rochelle Daniel of Atria was a semifinalist for Emerging Chef.

The James Beard Awards recognize exceptional talent and achievement in the culinary arts, hospitality and media. The awards were first presented in 1991. FBN

Above: A February snowstorm blanketed Forêt FLG, causing the restaurant to close for a day and a half. Photo by Peter Corbett Right: Chef Sam Greenhalgh preps in the kitchen of his restaurant on Phoenix Ave., east of Beaver St. Courtesy photos

FORÊT continued from page 1

Northern Arizona Healthcare announces our Sunshine Award winners

The Sunshine Award is a quarterly recognition for our non-nursing staff on Team NAH. It recognizes the impacts of our colleagues who work behind the scenes to help ensure high quality care for our patients. Recipients exemplify NAH's mission and values.

Congratulations to this quarter’s Flagstaff Medical Center Sunshine Award winners:

Nominations can come from patients, families and colleagues.

Behavioral Health Technician

Chaplain Assistant