April 2024

Wednesdays at the Weatherford

Flagstaff’s storied past comes to life

By Bonnie Stevens, FBN

When Texas businessman John W. Weatherford opened the doors of his grand hotel, a Victorian marvel, among the shanties in downtown Flagstaff on the first day of the new year of the new century, he created volumes of interest from a cast of characters who were writing new chapters in the Arizona Territory.

Presidents, scientists, artists, ranchers, lumberjacks, those who maintained the law along with some who broke it, became hotel guests playing out colorful roles in Flagstaff’s early history.

Those chapters are being shared and celebrated during Wednesdays at the Weatherford, 5-7 p.m., on the first Wednesday of each month in April, May and June, starting April 3. The free event, presented by Weatherford Hotel owners Henry Taylor

and Pamela “Sam” Green, is hosted in part by the Townsite Community Land Trust (TCLT), which renovates historic homes for affordable housing.

“Learning about Flagstaff history adds quality to my life,” said TCLT Executive Director Duffie Westheimer. “When I see buildings and know who lived there and what they contributed to this place; when I know where the first Northern Arizona weather station was and who staffed it; when I learn about the local

April 2024 | Issue 4 Volume 17

materials used to build structures; my life is richer and I feel like I’m a part of the ongoing Flagstaff story.”   Wednesdays at the Weatherford is free to the public and created out of a love for historic preservation and Flagstaff’s storied past, said Henry Taylor, who purchased the declining property in 1975. “I’ve always felt that Sam and I are curators of this beautiful building and to some degree, the memories it holds within its walls.

Restoring the Weatherford Hotel has

Continued on page 31

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GC Railway Honored as Flagstaff’s Green Business of the Year

By Peter Corbett, FBN

The Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce has recognized Grand Canyon Railway as its Green Business of the Year.

The recently presented award, now in its third year, recognizes local businesses and non-profits that reduce operational impacts on the environment.

“We hear from our business community frequently about how much they’re doing to preserve our environment and keep our quality of life high here in Flagstaff,” said Julie Pastrick, Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce president and CEO.

That includes water conservation, lighting to protect the dark skies and recycling. “It’s really a joy to be in a community where environmental awareness is high and businesses care,” she said.

Grand Canyon Railway “is a community asset that is treasured by so many,” said Pastrick, adding that not everyone is aware of the company’s environmental values.

It starts with Grand Canyon Railway reducing automobile traffic and emissions at Grand Canyon National Park.

“By our numbers, it always fluctuates, but we believe we keep approximately 60,000 vehicles out of the national park by folks instead taking our train to Grand Canyon,” said Sam Langner, Grand Canyon Railway community relations manager.

The Railway, owned and operated by the Xanterra Travel Collection, also retrofitted its steam locomotive in 2009 to operate on a mix of recycled vegetable oil and diesel fuel. The oil is collected from Xanterra’s restaurants at Grand Canyon and Williams.

The mixture is 40% to 50% cleaner burning than diesel fuel alone and the 1930 locomotive’s exhaust has an aroma of French fries, earning it the nickname French Fry Express.

“Wherever that idea came from, it’s just brilliant,” Pastrick said.

The next big idea for Grand Canyon Railway

Continued on page 28

Community

Grand Canyon Railway’s steam locomotive moves along the South Rim. Photo by Peter Corbett

New Hope for Pulmonary Patients

NAPA partners with Numo Health to provide quality, tech-enabled care

By Betsey Bruner, FBN

Liz Grobsmith of Flagstaff was very pleased. Master Chorale of Flagstaff had just presented Judas Maccabaeus, an oratorio in three parts composed by George Frederic Handel, in concert March 2 in Northern Arizona University’s Ardrey Auditorium. “I sang like a bird,” recalled Grobsmith, an alto who has sung with Master Chorale for 21 years. “I’m singing better than I have in decades. It’s really been life altering for me.”

Her singing triumph was made possible by the progress she has made in controlling her pulmonary problems, especially chronic coughing.

For Grobsmith, 77, being able to breathe easily, cough little and sing clearly has never been something she could take for granted. “I was raised in a home with two smokers, and I’ve always suffered from a lot of bronchitis,” she said. “When friends were playing outside, I was in the infirmary. I’ve always had chronic coughing.”

For decades, she was coughing, which led to having to drop out of concerts, such as her Nebraska choir’s performance of the Brahms Requiem some decades ago. “I was hoarse and couldn’t sing,” she said. “I’m a singer; choral music has always been an important part of my life. When you can’t sing, you can’t live.”

Coughing fits were not just during performances. “I often had to leave a concert or movie or play,” she said. “I always had to sit on the aisle to make a quick exit.”

Allergy testing indicated serious issues. “They found out I was allergic to practically

everything. I took medications for at least 30 years for all the things I was allergic to – trees and grasses, and dogs and cats, and horses.”

Grobsmith’s ties to Flagstaff are strong. She is a retired professional who served as provost and vice president for academic affairs at NAU for 10 years. She left that post in 2012 and worked with the Center for International Education until her retirement in 2017.

She finally found real help for her condition when she located Dr. Elijah Poulos, a pulmonologist in Flagstaff who is affiliated with Flagstaff Medical Center and has hospital privileges with FMC.

Since 2016, Dr. Poulos also has been a full partner and part owner of Northern Arizona Pulmonary Associates (NAPA), on North Rim Drive in Flagstaff. He has been managing Grobsmith’s pulmonary disease since 2019.

Because of a critical shortage of pulmonologists in the Flagstaff area, Poulos was one of the few specialists available to help Grobsmith with her lifetime of health struggles.

“He’s a dream,” she said. “His goal was to get my asthma under control.”

The doctor examined her a number of times and prescribed advanced therapies. “Finally, this last year, he said I was a candidate for Tezspire [a treatment for severe asthma], which is a monthly injection. In addition, he put me on a nebulizer with a steroid vapor that gets inhaled.”

Unfortunately, a problem in her care arose when Northern Arizona Healthcare (NAH) ended its contract with NAPA in July of 2023. This change meant that the already critical shortage of pulmonologists would probably get worse.

“Our group was the only pulmonary practice in Flagstaff at the time, and we had seven pulmonologists in our group,” said Dr. Poulos.

Long-time Flagstaff resident Liz Grobsmith finds her singing voice and improved quality of life with support from pulmonary doctors and their partnership with Numo Health. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

The Rebirth of a Beloved Burger Joint

Mama B’s brings new name, décor, logo and menu to a busy corner

By Betsey Bruner, FBN

Diced jalapenos. Sweet potato fries. Pepper jack cheese.

Chipotle mayo. Pico de Gallo. Thin-mint milkshakes. Grilled onions. Root beer floats. Green chiles.

Yum, and welcome to the world of Flagstaff’s beloved burger joint –Mama B’s, formerly Mama Burger.

Established in 2009 and enjoying years of popularity, the restaurant reemerged March 5 from an 18-month hiatus for a complete remodel of the restaurant’s building on North Fort Valley Road.

“We had our last day in July 2022,” said Bernadette Chavez, who coowns the business with her husband, Pete Schepper. “It was an extensive project. We basically took this little building down to a dirt floor and stud walls. We’ve chalked up this project. Well, it’s like we’ve been pregnant for 18 months, and we’re so ready to have this!”

The reopening was a smash hit, with 148 shakes made within threeand-a-half hours on the Thursday

after opening day.

“I think it reminds our customers of Flagstaff from back in the day,” Chavez said. “It’s got a throw-back feeling. Flagstaff has been undergoing major changes in the past few years, with big boxes coming to town. Flagstaff used to have a bit more grit to it.”

The original building was built in 1970 and started as The Big Steer

Burger, to be followed in the early ‘80s by Mrs. Brown’s Burger Barn, Schepper said.

Chavez and Schepper are not newcomers to owning restaurants in Flagstaff.

Schepper and his brother, Brent Schepper, launched the original Fratelli Pizza in 2002 on Route 66 in downtown Flagstaff. Today, the Fratelli success includes three loca-

tions in town.

They say the scope of the proposed work on Mama Burger was intimidating, but they found the perfect contractor for the job, Mike Wilson, who had originally been hired as a driver at Fratelli when he was 17.

“My husband knew that Mike Wilson worked in this field and we reached out to him,” said Chavez. “He said, ‘Why don’t you let me and

my dad have a jab at this?’ So, my husband and Mike were basically the designers for this building.”

One lucky purchase shaped the theme for the décor inside.

“When we closed down, I was able to buy Fred Wong’s multi-mixer that he had in the Grand Canyon Café,” said Chavez. “We were able to purchase this piece of iconic equipment.

Continued on page 29

The corner burger place near Flagstaff High School, now Mama B’s, has re-opened with Southwestern flavor. Happy workers keep the kitchen sizzling. Courtesy photos

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Realtors Navigating a Change in the Real Estate Landscape

Proposed NAR settlement creates uncertainty for buyer agents and their commissions

By Bonnie Stevens, FBN

Realtors and real estate brokers are striving to understand and prepare for the impact of the National Association of Realtors’ (NAR) agreement that will change the way homes are bought and sold starting in July.

Previously, sophisticated homebuyers and sellers understood the rules: Real estate agents on each side of the transaction would be paid for their work through commissions, a percentage of the sale, which would be taken out of the funds going to the home seller when the house was sold.

In the MLS (multiple listing service) – a private database where real estate professionals list homes available for sale in an area – the commission for buying agents would be listed there. But that could change in July.

A Missouri-based lawsuit filed in October claims the longstanding practice was a form of collusion that artificially inflated real estate fees. On Friday, March 22, the NAR announced an agreement to settle the case that would eliminate an offer of compensa-

tion to buyer’s agents on the MLS.

“This action would settle one large class action suit involving the 1.5 million members of NAR,” said Arizona Realtors Past President Gary Nelson. “To simplify the action, offers of compensation paid from a seller to a buyer’s agent will no longer be on MLS. As a result, realtors will need to cooperate and communicate more with each other. Compensation for buyer’s agents will have to be negotiated outside the MLS.”

Nelson says many realtors are already doing this by creating exclusive Buyer Broker Agreements that guarantee that the buyer’s agent gets paid. “Commissions have always been variable,” he said. “But now, for the buyer’s agent, that commission will have to be negotiated for each sale prior to putting a contract together.”

Prescott Area Association of Realtors President Jeanelle Shearer says MLS participants working with buyers will be required to enter into written agreements with them. “The National Association of Realtors has consistently encouraged its members to utilize Buyer Broker Agreements to clarify the

scope of services and associated value for consumers. This will now be a required additional document that buyers can expect to see when working with an agent who is an MLS participant.”

Unintended negative consequences of the settlement may impact first-time homebuyers, move-up homebuyers and elderly homebuyers more than those in the high-end home market, said Nelson. “It will be very difficult for them to have cash in pocket to pay a buyer’s agent up front, in order to obtain their services, which might include showing 50 houses,” he said. “Only about 30% of homebuyers would have the ability to pay their buyer’s agents.”

Some believe this action will lead to fewer buyer agents and less protection for consumers. Buyer agents have only been around since the 1990s, the result of political activist and attorney Ralph Nader’s criticism of dual agents: buyer-brokers and seller agents from the same firm collaborating on a single home sale.

“It can get nasty out there,” said Nelson. “You’ve heard of ‘buyer beware.’ There are potential disclosure problems and other concerns. Buyer’s agents are the ones who understand the contract inside and out to protect the buyer.”

“At this time, it is still too early to say

how the mandated MLS rule changes will affect the industry, though certainly they will,” said Shearer. “The rule changes that are to be made as part of the settlement agreement relate to the communication of offers of compensation and the use of written agreements between MLS participants and buyers. It’s important to note that the offer of compensation has always been nego-

tiable. That offer can be any amount, including zero.”

Despite the changes, Shearer said, “Realtors remain steadfast in their commitment to delivering exemplary service to their clients, with buyers and sellers retaining a multitude of options when engaging in real estate transactions.” FBN

Buying a home could require another document as realtors representing buyers may need to negotiate their commission with each client. Courtesy photo

Realtors Promote Prescott’s ‘Most Picturesque Estate’

Positioned atop the mountains in Hassayampa Prescott, an 8,639-squarefoot estate is being called “the epitome of elegance” by realtors at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, with “every window offering breathtaking views, and every room exuding comfort through elegant design,” says the promotional material.

“Hassayampa Masterpiece,” as it’s being called, is “the star” of the firm’s gallery of Prescott homes, priced at $4,995,000. “The epitome of refined living, Hassayampa Masterpiece is nestled within the exclusive Hassayampa gated community. Just 2.7 miles from the historic heart of Prescott, this residence showcases breathtaking panoramic views spanning over 100 miles.”

The property features wooden beams and natural stone accents. It also has five fireplaces and a private bowling alley. The deck comes equipped with a heated spa and swimming pool. The home also has an elevator and seven-car garage.

“The property, decadently draped in natural beauty and perfectly positioned in Prescott, takes luxury to a new level,” said Jill Anderson, listing agent for Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. “At the $4.9 million asking price, this elegant estate is one of the most noteworthy homes in terms of amenities and luxury.” FBN

Woman Business FBN of the Month

Early Culinary Training Helped Kimberly McClure Create Mama Kim’s Kitchen

From taco bars to wedding cakes, local caterer was inspired by her grandmother

By V. Ronnie Tierney, FBN

Sitting on a stool in her Granny Essie’s kitchen, eyeing every move her grandmother made, was how the owner and chef of Mama Kim’s Kitchen, Kimberly McClure, fell in love with the concept of cooking.

“My Granny Essie grew up on a farm in a very small town near Little Rock, Arkansas, where she learned to make everything from scratch,” she said.

A native Arizonan, McClure was born in Phoenix in 1959. Through the years, she lived with her Granny Essie and would help her in the kitchen with small chores such as washing snap peas. “I always looked forward to seeing her and helping her cook. I thought that cooking was magical. Granny Essie did make it clear that it was her kitchen.”

As Granny Essie got older and her health declined, McClure took over the responsibility of making Sunday dinners. “One day after dinner she pulled me aside and said, you really have a gift, and my prayer is that you do something with it.”

McClure is happy that Granny Essie lived to see her start school in April 2015.

Moving to Flagstaff in 2020, McClure started her business two years later. The name Mama Kim’s Kitchen developed when young adults at her church began calling her Mama Kim. “When we started planning the business, my husband suggested I use that name. So, I did.”

As a full-service caterer, McClure says she does it all. “We’ve done everything from Mac N Cheese bars, pulled pork and chicken, taco bars with all the fixings, enchiladas, risotto, pasta, steaks, and even wedding cakes and desserts. You name it, we can cook or bake it,” she said, adding that she loves cooking from scratch because everything tastes better.

As a young single mom of three children, McClure felt could not attend college while her children were young. However, when they got older, she worked full time as a paralegal during the day and attended the Art Institute of Phoenix in the evenings. This is where she earned her bachelor’s degree in culinary management. “I knew I could cook but I wanted the education as well. Cooking was and is my passion and education has always been important to me.”

One of their popular displays is the Grazing Table, which includes a charcuterie board and a wide variety

of food selections. “I like to call it a charcuterie board on steroids,” who added she loves cooking from scratch because everything tastes better. One of her customers is Arlette Pender, founder of the non-profit organization, My Hair is Beautiful. “We held a self-esteem workshop for young girls and their parents. Kim set up a Grazing Table for us and it was beautiful and catered to all food pref-

erences. Though Kim is very kindhearted, she means business. She was on time and very professional. We were so happy to have her. People are still talking about the food.”

“I don’t just cook food; I create an experience and I cook from the heart. We have no preset menus,” said McClure. “My strategy is to interview my client and see what they like and customize an experience for

them. Sometimes it’s hard to express how I feel. Cooking is a passion for me, and it is not something I feel I have to do. I never want anyone to say that I just cooked food for them, but I’d like them to know how much love went into the food I prepared.”

McClure’s husband, Ben, is a blacksmith who owns Remnant Forge. “Ben helps with equipment and organization. He doesn’t cook but I call him my sous chef because he will clean and chop veggies and fruit and overall prep. He also assists with stocking up the Grazing Tables and helps clean up the commissary. I couldn’t do it without him, he is definitely my right hand.”

“Kim is awesome,” said Viola’s Weddings and Events Lead Coordinator Stevie Calvo. “It is so neat to see her grow over the last couple years, and she is so great to work with. What she does with her cool Grazing Tables is amazing; they are so fun and overflow with lots of colors. They are my personal favorite. We like working with other family businesses here in Flagstaff and Mama Kim’s Kitchen is on our list.” FBN

To contact Mama Kim’s Kitchen, call 480707-2462.

Chef Kimberly McClure, owner of Mama Kim’s Kitchen, creates her popular Grazing Table. Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

Kimberly McClure appreciates the assistance she receives from her husband, Ben. McClure calls her Grazing Table “a charcuterie board on steroids.”

Historic Hotel Adds Lobby Bar

Hotel St. Michael invites guests in with a nod to Prescott’s past

By Peter Corbett, FBN

Heading south from Gurley Street, there’s no risk of going thirsty on Prescott’s famous Whiskey Row, which boasts a handful of lively watering holes down the block: Matt’s Saloon, The Palace, Jersey Lilly’s, 1881 Spirits, the Bird Cage, and starting with Hotel St. Michael’s Lobby Bar at the northern end on the 100 block of South Montezuma Street.

The Lobby Bar is a calm, spacious room with enough easy chairs and sofas for 60 guests and still some elbow room. Quiet conversation is a virtue here. Daylight streams in from tall, arched windows and contemporary chandeliers cast soft light on the room in the evening.

The walls are adorned with exhibits of Prescott’s past, including rodeo posters, political memorabilia of Sen. Barry Goldwater and images of two Hollywood cowboys with ties to Prescott –Tom Mix and Steve McQueen as Junior Bonner.

Brad Courtney, a Prescott historian,

said he has enjoyed several visits to the Lobby Bar.

“There is a lot of room and as far as hanging with friends, you can actually talk without having to practically yell,” Courtney said. “All in all, I think it is the best thing along the Row now, and I hope it catches on.”

The Lobby Bar’s cocktail menu features a St. Michael Old Fashioned, Blood Orange Margarita and Hemingway Daiquiri. Craft beer choices include two lagers and an IPA. A short wine list has chardonnay, cabernet, sauvignon blanc, pinot noir, pinot grigio and a red blend. It’s served by the glass or bottle.

Hotel St. Michael General Manager Regina Kilmer said the Lobby Bar is now open seven days a week after opening in December in the hotel’s former banquet room. Business has been good, especially on Fridays and Saturdays, when a piano player entertains guests.

The Lobby Bar is just one of several improvements planned for the hotel since new owners took over in March 2023, Kilmer said.

Prescott Hotel SO LLC bought the St. Michael from K&G Services Inc. for $7.95 million.

Springboard Hospitality took over

the management of Hotel St. Michael in May 2023. The company manages 47 hotels in 13 states, including Wilde Resort & Spa in Sedona, Harbor Court Hotel in San Francisco and Anvil Hotel in Jackson, Wyoming.

All 70 hotel rooms at Hotel St. Michael will be remodeled and the hotel is seeking building permits to open a bar in the basement with a speakeasy vibe, Kilmer said. A bar called J.R.’s previously operated in the basement, but it’s been closed for 30 years.

Hotel St. Michael as a cornerstone of Whiskey Row has a long history. It was preceded by the Hotel Burke, which opened on the same corner in 1891. It was promoted as a fireproof building but burned down in the big fire of July 1900 that leveled Whiskey Row.

Dennis Burke, with his business partner Michael Hickey, built the three-story hotel that exists today. It opened in 1901 as the new Hotel Burke. Burke served two terms as Prescott mayor and was in the 24th Territorial Legislature. Hickey was a deputy sheriff.

In 1907, Burke sold his interest in the hotel to Hickey, who renamed it Hotel St. Michael.

Hotel St. Michael is the oldest hotel in Prescott. It also had the city’s first

elevator, an Otis lift, installed in 1925, according to Kilmer.

The hotel overlooks Prescott’s Courthouse Plaza.

“With our great location we have all the events down here – the parades and courthouse lighting,” Kilmer said. “We’re sought out by folks because all the action is down here.”

The hotel staff does its best to earn customers’ repeat business.

“We go out of our way to make the guests feel they’re at home, that this is a place they can continue to come back to each time they visit Prescott,” Kilmer said. FBN

The Lobby Bar, at 205 W. Gurley St., is open from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., Sunday through Thursday and 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday.

The spacious Lobby Bar at Hotel St. Michael has comfortable seating and elbow room for its guests. Photo by Peter Corbett

// COMMUNITY PROFILE

Grand Canyon Wrangler Moves Mule Trains through All Seasons

Matthew Joseph delivers supplies for rangers, clinics, researchers, campers

An encounter with mules on the Grand Canyon trails is like finding yourself in the middle of a Western movie.  But for the wranglers, it’s the real deal and a job they wouldn’t trade for anything.

Grand Canyon National Park (GCNP) Animal Packer Matthew Joseph says, “I love it! I get to be in the Grand Canyon, and the mules are the best coworkers you could ever ask for.”

A mule packer feeds and cares for the animals and carefully and strategically sorts out the cargo for transport in packs on the mules’ back. In general, mules can carry 20% of their body weight.

Working and living at the Grand Canyon on and off since 2018, Joseph began wrangling as a packer for Xanterra Travel Collection South Rim Mule Operations. After three months, he began packing supplies

down to Phantom Ranch and back. “I preferred working with the mules rather than people,” he said.

When COVID hit, Joseph took some time off to spend time in Prescott where his parents live.  Soon after, he accepted a position at Rock Creek in Bishop, California, where he rode horses and packed mules.

Returning to the Grand Canyon in 2021, Joseph was hired in his current position with GCNP.

Waking up early in the morning, Joseph packs his mules and hauls supplies to inner canyon park rangers, clinics, wastewater treatment plants and more. “You name it, we take supplies to anyone who is a Park Service employee.  That includes archeologists and anything biology related, vegetation crews, fish crews and law enforcement,” he said. Joseph says the mule trains usu-

Since 2006

Grand Canyon National Park Animal Packer Matthew Joseph keeps mule trains moving safely through the canyon.

Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography Continued on

30

Flagstaff Snow Removal Impacted by Crew Shortages

By Diane Hope, FBN

While this year has not been anything like last year’s “Snowmageddon,” in early February, two feet of snow fell on Flagstaff in one day, and that was on top of around a foot-and-a-half of fresh powder that had fallen the day before. With an average annual snowfall in the Flagstaff area of 108.8 inches and a great deal of unpredictability from year to year, it’s often a tall order for those responsible for snow removal to keep up.

The Streets Section of the City of Flagstaff’s Public Works Division is responsible for plowing Flagstaff’s streets. With an annual operational budget of $5.5 million, one-third of that is for plowing 700 miles of roadway, which involves plows driving 2,600 miles just to plow everything once. If it has seemed to be taking longer at times, Streets Section Director Sam Beckett knows all about it. He fields dozens of calls every year from frustrated residents.

His section has 20 snowplows in total, including nine motor graders and four front-end loaders. But the work is hard on the equipment, which requires frequent maintenance and repairs. Keeping them all on the road can be a challenge. “When we had our first major snowstorm in early January this year, much of the fleet was out of commission with various mechanical breakdowns, so we only had three plows available. Thankfully, we got most of the fleet operational again for the major storm in February,” said Beckett.

Why the shortfall? Snowplow operators are required to have a commercial driver’s licence and a minimum of one year of heavy equipment experience. The starting pay is just over $18 per hour, with a stipulation to work extended hours during snowy weather. In addition, Public Works is competing with private companies for staff, as well as having some of their most experienced team members retire.

“We’re finding it harder and harder to staff entry level positions. We’re looking to find ways to be more competitive in the market, but

it’s not just the pay. There’s just not as much interest to work in equipment operations and the commercial driving trades as there once was,” said Beckett.

Currently, the four city Public Works sections have vacancy rates of between 40% and 50%. The staffing shortage has had an impact on residential street snow removal this year. But also, later snow removal is also partly because the city focuses on clearing residential streets at night when they don’t have to deal with parked cars.

At Coconino County, the job requires removing snow from 323 miles of paved roads and 675 miles of dirt roads across the second largest county in the contiguous U.S. County road maintenance and plow crews currently have a 25% to 30% vacancy rate, along with a bigger fleet of 27 graders and 27 snowplow trucks to draw on, giving them some leeway to cope with equipment breakdowns.

“We’ve really been helped by Proposition 403, which was passed by the public in 2014,” said County Public Works Director Christopher Tressler. “That helped us get a budget that makes Public Works sustainable in terms of equipment and operators.”

He adds that the county is able to pay a bit above the city rates and offer career growth. “I think that’s helped us to hire and retain staff. With snowplow training and experience, staff can go from an Operator 1 to an Operator 4 level, so there’s the opportunity for career advancement and higher compensation. The annual pay currently starts at just over $40K for Operator 1 level and goes up to between $52K and $76K for Operator 4 level. We’ve got a good core of experienced operators – some have been with the county for 20 years or more.”

For both the city and the county, the biggest challenge is when a lot of snow falls fast. At the county, Tressler applauds the Arizona Department of Transportation for being proactive in closing certain roads. “It really helps us

Coconino County snow removal crews cover 323 miles of paved roads and 675 miles of dirt roads.

Photo courtesy of Lawrence Littleman

Hope Women’s Center Supports Women through Challenging Times

By V. Ronnie Tierney, FBN

Catapulted into a whirlpool of hopelessness is a tough dark place to find oneself. Climbing out is even more of a challenge, but a 29-year-old single mother of two, “June” (not her real name), found hope and a whole new life in a town she didn’t even know existed.

Serving women across Arizona for 40 years, Hope Women’s Center in Camp Verde gave June the opportunity to scale her obstacles and find freedom from the clutches of drug addiction to a new life, a new job, and a new home.

“I grew up in a large family in Phoenix.  We never traveled outside the city, so I didn’t even know where Camp Verde was,” said June. “But it’s my home now and I love it.”

Haunted by her teen brother’s suicide and a brutal battle with addiction to Fentanyl and other pharmaceutical drugs, June’s voice echoed a life that resonated despair.

“My mom was severely depressed, really bad. Then my dad passed away and I was the one who had to hold the family together. It was hard on

me and I started to have back problems so I was put on pharmaceutical pain medication,” she said. She was 24 years old at the time.

“When the drugs weren’t working anymore, my boyfriend introduced me to Fentanyl. It was just starting to become popular and all my friends were doing it. When I first started to use it in 2020, they were $25 a pill, today they are 25 cents a pill. I think it’s now an epidemic.

“Fentanyl is like heroin. People are dying. It’s like Russian roulette and very few users live. All it takes is one bad pill and sometimes you don’t know if they’re bad or not,” she said.

Then, a two-month stint in jail for stealing a car was a turning point for June. “That was the first time I got into any trouble.” With help from counselors, she agreed to go to a rehabilitation center in Tucson.  She barely weighed 100 pounds and was pregnant.

“Staying away from my former friends was key in my recovery,” she said. “You are who you hang out with, and friends will bring you down. I desperately wanted to clean up my life.”

Fresh out of rehab, June had no place to go. “We weren’t allowed to have a computer or phone in rehab so I had no idea what I was going to do. I worked with a guidance counselor and we found a maternity home, Hope Women’s Center in Camp Verde, and they accepted me. I didn’t even know there was a program like this. I was so grateful. They still tell me to this day that they are glad they took a chance with me.”

June’s baby was born shortly after entering the center.

Today, June is engaged to be married and has a job that she loves at Hope Women’s Center. “I head up all the volunteers where I work. I have a beautiful apartment with a view and my children have a good life. I hope someday to go back to school and learn how I can be an intake counselor so I can help women who are in hopeless situations, as I was.”

“She is an inspiration to us all with her hard work and determination to forge a healthy path forward for her and her children,” said Hope Women’s Center Chief Executive Officer Tammy Abernethy. “Her work ethic is outstanding, which is one of the reasons we hired her full time after she completed our job training program.”

Headquartered in Phoenix with centers in Coolidge, Apache Junction, Maricopa, West Valley and Camp Verde, Hope Women’s Center provides a safe haven for women and girls at risk in any difficult life situation. The mission of the non-profit organization is to engage, encourage

The Hope Women’s Center Hope Thrifts store offers clothes, household items, toys, furniture and more.  Standing inside are Hope Women’s Center Manager Callie Hicks, Hope Thrifts Manager Colette “Coco” Larsen Bradley and Hope Women’s Center Program Support Coordinator Mystic Frost.

Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

Exercising Your Freedom is Good

After witnessing a profoundly moving and meaningful naturalization ceremony in federal court recently, I realized we American citizens seem to get so bogged down in the challenges facing our country, including political disagreements and the cost of gas, that we forget how privileged we are to live in the United States. We forget about the opportunities and freedoms we have that give us the power to pursue a better life.

Not taking advantage of our freedoms – like the right to vote, the right to express ourselves and the right to become educated – is like winning the lottery and burying the jackpot.

The process to become a U.S. citizen is not quick or easy. In general, most people have to be a permanent resident here for at least five years, three if you are married to a U.S. citizen. You really have to want it.

On Friday, March 22, I saw, firsthand, 74 people who really wanted it. I witnessed the palpable joy, relief and hope for the future as these individuals from 30 coun-

tries became U.S. citizens.

A woman from Iran pledged allegiance to our flag with her hand over her heart and without a veil over her hair.

A man from Afghanistan will not face consequences in this country if he chooses to treat his wife and daughters as something more valuable than property.

A woman from China can now freely browse websites of companies that compete with Chinese businesses.

A man from Egypt likely has far better prospects now for earning a higher wage and enjoying higher living standards, as only the wealthy in his homeland can afford to live in a free-standing house.

According to Habitat for Humanity, 20 million Egyptians live in substandard housing conditions – dirt floors and thatched roofs – with little chance of improving their situation. Such conditions provide little protection from snakes, insects, intruders, rain or dangerously hot summer temperatures. “Some even share their homes with their livestock or poul-

try.” Thus, the threat of disease and danger from the elements is high.

Meanwhile, here in the U.S., we generally don’t have to think about dodging cobras or becoming ill from exposure to sick animals or oppressive heat.

In fact, we have choices about where we want to live and our path to get there. We can safely cast a vote for those we want to represent us. We can also name our babies whatever we want, marry whomever we want and wear a dragon tail in public, if we feel like it. We can chew gum (it’s banned in Singapore), go outside alone (women in Saudi Arabia are discouraged if not banned from doing this) and start a business. And everyone has access to education, which many say is the game-changer for an improved quality of life. All kids in the U.S. have the right to free public education. After that there are grants, programs, financial aid and counselors available to help guide the way.

Those of us lucky enough to have been born

in the United States may well have won the lottery of a lifetime without ever buying a ticket. What we do with our jackpot is up to us. FBN

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

Last month, 74 individuals from 30 countries became new U.S. citizens in a federal court in Phoenix. Photo by Bonnie Stevens

Major Expansions in Youth Program Unveiled at UWNA Event

NARBHA grant provides ‘Golden Ticket’ to CCC for KinderCamp grads

By Cindy May, FBN

The announcement of a $100,000 grant from The NARBHA Institute to expand youth programs and the promise that graduates of the popular KinderCamp program can earn a degree from Coconino Community College free of charge were the highlights of the United Way of Northern Arizona (UWNA) Annual Campaign and Community Impact Luncheon.

“As you know, United Way of Northern Arizona has big, bold goals for our youth and our community,” said UWNA President and CEO Liz Archuleta. “Today, I am proud to announce that these partnerships will provide additional opportunities and capacity to our KinderCamp program and our efforts to step up for our youth.”

The majority of the funding from The NARBHA Institute will be used to expand the KinderCamp program to rural communities in Coconino, Navajo and Apache counties.

Meanwhile, KinderCamp graduates will have the opportunity to go to Coconino Community College for free.

CCC President Eric Heiser announced that each student who attends the program will receive a “golden ticket” that they can redeem when they graduate from high school. “We want to get them excited about going to college early on. We want them to know there is a place for them at CCC.”

During the luncheon, there was a roundtable discussion about the impact of KinderCamp featuring the program’s coordinator, Sara Owen, teachers Crystal Busath and Jodi Hunt, and parent Wendy Price and her daughter, Riley, who is a KinderCamp graduate.

Two high schoolers were also recognized for their efforts to step up for their peers. Tyra Dixon of Joseph City High School and Bobbi Seaton of Holbrook High School participated in an internship that involved analyzing

The targeted intervention program, provided free to families, is a signature early education initiative coordinated by United Way of Northern Arizona with local school districts. It is held during the month of June and facilitates successful transition for students going into kindergarten who have minimal preschool experience.

the issues facing youth in northeast Arizona.

According to a survey they conducted of their fellow students, a majority indicated they frequently feel anxious and under pressure in school and work. The two students were drawn to the internship because they knew people who had turned to substance abuse as a way of coping with stress and anxiety. The interns recommended a youth center with afterschool and weekend programs that could help give teens a sense of belonging and inclusion.

The meeting also included a progress report on this year’s Annual Campaign. Campaign Co- Chairs Dan and Kim Musselman reported that just over $1 million has been raised thus far but noted that contributions are still coming in from workplace campaigns.

UWNA presented several awards during the luncheon, including:

The Community Builder Award to The NARBHA Institute

The Helping Hands Award to Kinney Construction Services

The 2023 UWNA Board Chair’s Corporate Partner Award to W.L.

Additionally, UWNA honored the workplace campaign coordinators who volunteer to share UWNA’s message in workplace-based campaigns that generate a significant amount of the funds raised during the annual

School District, Kinney Construction Services, Lowell Observatory, Navajo County, Nestle Purina PetCare, Northern Arizona University, Tucson Electric Power and W.L. Gore &

UWNA President/CEO Liz Archuleta and Board Chair Armando Ruiz present the Community Builder Award to The NARBHA Institute’s COO Jon Perez (center).

Photo courtesy of Tom Alexander

Dr. Keith Hutchinson

Honored with Nate Avery Physician of the Year Award

Keith Hutchinson, M.D., has been awarded Flagstaff Medical Center’s (FMC)

2024 Nate Avery Physician of the Year award. The award, according to Northern Arizona Healthcare (NAH), aims to select a physician who not only excels at patient care, but who goes above and beyond patient experience and quality, and is an engaged member of the community. Dr. Hutchinson has worked in critical care medicine at FMC since 2015 and at Verde Valley Medical Center in Cottonwood since 2017. He is currently serving as medical director for the Medical Intensive Care Unit at both hospitals.

This distinguished award is named after Nate Avery, a neurosurgeon born and raised in Flagstaff who also practiced at FMC. Avery died in 2012, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, empathy and giving. This legacy continues to influence the values and culture of NAH as it seeks to improve health and heal people.

“We are so proud to have presented this esteemed award to Dr. Hutchinson, an incredible provider who works tirelessly to care for the community and his peers,” said NAH Chief

Medical Officer Derek Feuquay, M.D. “His dedicated leadership brings camaraderie to the hospital staff, while also being an advocate for patients on a daily basis. Dr. Hutchinson’s amazing attitude and respect for colleagues has shown that he is the most deserving person to receive this year’s award.”

Dr. Hutchinson earned his medical degree from the University New Mexico in Albuquerque and an undergraduate degree in aerospace engineering from the University of Colorado Boulder. He went on to complete a residency in internal medicine, as well as a critical care fellowship at the University of New Mexico. He is board certified in critical care medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

FMC colleagues nominated healthcare providers who exemplify these values and submitted comments with their nominations. These nominations were reviewed by FMC medical staff members, including Chief of Staff Mark Lindstrom, D.O.; Secretary Robert Berger, M.D.; and Select Committee Chairmen John Marvel, D.O. and Jeremy Nielsen, M.D. FBN

Keith Hutchinson, M.D., serves as medical director of the Medical Intensive Care Unit at Flagstaff Medical Center and Verde Valley Medical Center. Courtesy photo

Exploring Technology, Sharing Solutions with Other Cities

Iattended my first South by Southwest (SXSW) last month. I went to Austin, Texas, to be a part of the U.S. Conference of Mayors (USCM) Civic I/O, an annual part of SXSW that brings together mayors, creatives and entrepreneurs from across the country to explore how technology can help solve some of our cities’ biggest challenges. I was one of 27 mayors who participated in panels, discussions and exercises, diving into future trends and the impacts of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality, and electric vehicle infrastructure on America’s cities.

One of the founders of SXSW spoke to us about how social media was a big topic at an early SXSW before it became of mainstream interest. He described how the discussions were centered on how beneficial social media could be for connecting humans, sharing information and advancing society. He compared that time to the current excitement around AI and how we must be conscious of the unintended conse-

quences and potential dangers.

My favorite workshop was titled, “Leading with Foresight.” It was described as: “In a time of transformative technologies, environmental disruption, deepening social divides, threats to democracy, and other systemic challenges, the capacity to cast thinking forward is essential both for leaders to succeed and for communities to thrive. This session, led by experts in foresight, design and anticipatory governance, will sharpen your ability to navigate change.”

This was a great learning opportunity for me and it’s always worthwhile to spend time with other mayors to learn from their experiences and share Flagstaff’s work and accomplishments. I believe that local business owners and non-profit leaders would enjoy and find value in attending SXSW. I was only there for a few days and experienced a small portion of the exciting learning opportunities, but the ideas keep on coming. FBN

Head of Rose Law Group’s Flagstaff Office Appointed to Partner

Rose Law Group has announced that Shelton “Tony” Freeman, who leads the firm’s Flagstaff office, has been appointed partner and named co-chair of the litigation department.

With 40 years of experience in the legal field, Freeman has navigated legal matters, from simple transactions to complex situations, serving a diverse range of clients. His practice areas include business and real estate litigation, business formation, corporate and real estate transactions, cannabis matters as well as bankruptcy and restructuring. Freeman is licensed in both Arizona and California.

“Tony Freeman embodies the qualities we at Rose Law Group seek to portray, including immediate client responsiveness, attention to quality work, creative problem solving, leadership and the love for solving the most difficult problems,” said Rose Law Group founder and President Jordan Rose. “We are honored to have Tony as a partner and co-chair of our litigation department.”

“I am very humbled and honored for the opportunity to become a partner and co-chair of the litigation department at Rose Law Group,” said Freeman. “I can’t wait to become even more a part of the firm and help out where I’m able. I look forward to a long and storied future amongst this great group of folks.”

Beyond his legal practice, Freeman is a pro-

fessional photographer specializing in capturing unique glimpses of nature, wildlife, landscapes and skylines. His work is on display in the Flagstaff office or can be viewed by visiting the website: NatureExposedPhotography.com. FBN

For more information about Rose Law Group and their services, visit roselawgroup.com.

Becky Daggett is the mayor of Flagstaff.

Tony Freeman has consistently earned the Martindale-Hubbell highest AV Preeminent peer rating, which awards attorneys who are ranked at the highest level of professional excellence for their legal expertise, communication skills and ethical standards by their peers. Courtesy photo

Ear Safety Tips

By Jeff Lane, Au.D.

Alarge portion of audiology appointments revolve around patient education. Given that ear health is not regularly discussed, it makes sense that patients may have a lot of questions. A common theme among their questions is safety. That is, how can one prevent damage or further loss? Below are a couple of the most common inquires.

EAR CLEANING

When testing as patient, they often express concern about their ears being full of wax. The truth is most people’s ears are pretty clear. Skin in your ear canal actually moves outward to clear out excess earwax. And a certain amount of earwax is

actually necessary for healthy ears! It helps to maintain skin moisture and can even deter bugs. However, it is true that some people produced more wax than others, which can potentially occlude the ear canal and affect hearing. In these instances, some extra effort can be needed.

If someone is concerned about excess earwax, we recommended putting a couple of drops of mineral oil in the ear twice a month. There is no need to rinse out the ears. Simply insert the oil into the ears and let it soak into the wax. This helps the wax to soften, ensuring it can flow out properly. While you can purchase brands such as Debrox, any mineral oil will suffice. Patients who follow this regimen typically see their issues with buildup subside.

Of course, any discussion of ear cleaning must address that most controversial of topics: Q-tips. Most people have grown up using Q-tips, then been warned to avoid them as adults. So, are Q-tips dangerous? It’s possible. Inserting them too deeply can cause contact with the bony portion of the ear canal, which would cause great discomfort. It also runs the risk of harming the eardrum, which is only 0.1 mm thick. The real issue, though, is that Q-tips are not all that effective in cleaning your ears. A small portion of the wax may be removed, but most will remain. It also runs the risk of unintentionally pushing the wax deeper into the canal. The best option is to let your ears clean themselves or use mineral oil. Of course, your audiologist is

So, how can one enjoy their music while also promoting safety? Limit the volume or duration of exposure to the sound. A good rule of thumb is that if someone standing a few feet away can hear your music, it is too loud. Luckily, most devices allow you to set a volume limit. For example, you could set your phone to not go beyond 75% of its output capability.

also always ready to help clean your ears if needed.

LOUD MUSIC

When we consider forms of hazardous noise, things like guns and power tools are typically what come to mind. And these definitely pose a risk. But there are plenty of other daily activities that can be harmful to ear health as well. One such activity is listening to loud music. This applies even if you are not at a concert.

Today, almost everyone has a smartphone or some other form of portable music player. Thus, a significant part of each day is spent listening to music while traveling or working. This isn’t inherently dangerous, but it can be if caution isn’t taken. Take, for example, AirPods. AirPods have the ability to produce sound in excess of 100 dB. According to OSHA regulations, exposure to 100 dB can cause damage in as little as two hours. Even 95 dB of exposure is only permitted for four hours. So, if somebody likes to crank their music, damage could be occurring over time without them noticing. (To be clear, this information would apply to all types of headphones, not

just AirPods.)

So, how can one enjoy their music while also promoting safety? Limit the volume or duration of exposure to the sound. A good rule of thumb is that if someone standing a few feet away can hear your music, it is too loud. Luckily, most devices allow you to set a volume limit. For example, you could set your phone to not go beyond 75% of its output capability. Then you would know that even if you turned the volume up, it would not be straying into dangerous territory. You could also make yourself take breaks from the headphones ever few hours to provide your ears an opportunity to rest. In essence: be mindful.

To be clear, there are many other factors that play into ear health and safety. If you have questions, ask. Your audiologist is always happy and ready to educate. 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

The Path to Improved Quality of Life: Understanding Total Joint Replacement, Revisions

By Liam Bosch, M.D.

In the journey of life, our joints bear the brunt of daily activities, aging and sports, making them prone to wear and tear. Among the most affected are the hip and knee joints, which, when compromised, can significantly impact one’s quality of life. However, advancements in orthopaedic care, particularly in total joint replacement and revisions, have opened doors to restoring mobility and reducing pain for many.

Maintaining good joint health is crucial for sustaining an active lifestyle. Unfortunately, factors such as arthritis, injuries and chronic conditions can lead to severe deterioration of the hip

and knee joints. When conservative treatments no longer provide relief, total joint replacement offers a viable solution to reclaim one’s life from the clutches of pain and immobility.

DECIPHERING JOINT REPLACEMENT AND REVISION

Total joint replacement surgery involves replacing a damaged joint with a prosthetic one. This procedure is not only about alleviating pain but also about restoring function. Candidates for this surgery often have severe joint damage where other treatments have failed to improve their condition.

Revisions, on the other hand, are follow-up procedures sometimes necessary when a prosthetic joint wears

Total joint replacement surgery involves replacing a damaged joint with a prosthetic one. This procedure is not only about alleviating pain but also about restoring function. Candidates for this surgery often have severe joint damage where other treatments have failed to improve their condition.

out or fails. Factors contributing to a revision include the loosening of the implant, infection or even the natural wear and tear over years of use.

ADVANCEMENTS IN TOTAL JOINT REPLACEMENTS

The field of orthopaedic care has seen remarkable advancements in total joint replacement and revisions. Minimally invasive surgical techniques have significantly reduced recovery times and increased the success rates of these surgeries. Modern prosthetics offer greater durability and mimic the natural movement of human joints more closely than ever before. Moreover, computer-assisted surgical techniques have enhanced the precision of joint replacement surgeries, tailoring the procedure to the individual’s specific anatomy for optimal outcomes. For those struggling with hip and knee issues, these surgical interventions represent not just a medical procedure, but a doorway to a renewed, active and fulfilling life.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT PHYSICIAN FOR JOINT REPLACEMENT

replacement surgery, selecting the right physician is paramount to ensuring the best possible outcomes. It is essential for patients to seek out surgeons who have specialty training in their specific procedure. This specialization ensures that the surgeon possesses the experience and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of joint replacement and revision surgeries effectively.

Given the significant impact these procedures can have on one’s quality of life, it is advisable for patients to take their time in selecting a surgeon. Obtaining multiple surgical consults can provide a broader perspective on available treatment options and surgical approaches. These consultations also offer an opportunity to assess the surgeon’s experience, the success rates of their procedures and their ability to communicate effectively with patients. Finding a physician who not only has the technical expertise but also understands your individual needs and concerns is crucial for a successful surgery and recovery.

IN CONCLUSION

As we navigate the complexities of joint health, the advancements in orthopaedic care, particularly in total joint replacement and revisions, offer a beacon of hope. For those struggling with hip and knee issues, these surgical interventions represent not just a medical procedure, but a doorway to a renewed, active and fulfilling life. FBN

Liam Bosch, M.D., a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon with a focus on hip and knee replacements and revisions, is welcoming patients to his Flagstaff and Cottonwood locations. He is renowned for his expertise in cutting-edge surgical techniques that promise superior patient outcomes. Embracing the latest advancements in the field, Dr. Bosch specializes in anterior total hip arthroplasty and robotic total knee arthroplasty. For more details about Dr. Bosch and the comprehensive services available at Flagstaff Bone and Joint, visit our website at www. flagstaffboneandjoint.com or call 928-773-2280. Our committed team is here to assist you in achieving a swift recovery and a return to an active, pain-free lifestyle. //

When contemplating total joint

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What is Respite Care?

By Cecelia Jernegan

Caring for an aging loved one can be a huge full-time responsibility, especially when you have other family, work and personal obligations that command your attention. What happens when you need to run important errands, go to a business meeting at the office, take a vacation, or need a breather?

If you are one of 40+ million Americans providing unpaid elder care, you understand the issues and challenges of being a primary caregiver.

WHAT IS RESPITE CARE?

Respite care is short-term or temporary home care that provides much-needed relief or a break from a primary caregiver’s duties. Respite care helps families and primary caregivers who may need to leave briefly to work outside the home, take care of personal tasks, or manage other responsibilities.

Flexibility is one of the most significant benefits of respite care. You can usually schedule services for a few hours or overnight to a few days or longer. Professional caregivers can also perform in-home assistance routinely on a weekly, biweekly or monthly basis.

You will also gain peace of mind knowing your loved one is in capable and experienced hands – even for a short time.

RESPITE CARE SERVICES

Visiting Angels Offices in Northern Arizona realizes the positive difference short-term help from a senior can make. Professional and dedicated caregivers will take a flexible approach in planning and scheduling services to ensure you and your loved one receive the respite care you need.

In-home respite care can include a wide range of services, including companion care and personal care. Some of the most common tasks performed include:

ƒ Assistance with activities of daily living (such as dressing, grooming, and bathing)

ƒ Laundry

ƒ Light housekeeping

ƒ Meal preparation

ƒ Medication reminders

If your loved one requires specialized care, such as Alzheimer’s care and dementia care, professional caregivers with expertise in these areas will provide support.

Respite care can also help reduce your risk of caregiver burnout without

compromising the quality of in-home support your loved one receives.

WHAT IS CAREGIVER BURNOUT?

If you provide care for a loved one without professional assistance, you may be at high risk of physical and mental exhaustion, often referred to as “caregiver burnout.” Symptoms of caregiver burnout include:

ƒ Feeling irritable, stressed, exhausted or isolated

ƒ Difficulty sleeping

ƒ Inability to keep appointments or manage responsibilities

ƒ Lack of motivation

ƒ Resentment toward your caregiving duties or your loved one

ƒ Unhealthy coping behaviors, such as drug or alcohol use, overeating, or not eating enough

ƒ Withdrawal from people and activities you used to enjoy In-home respite care can substantially reduce your risk of burnout and make caring for your loved one more manageable.

GET STARTED WITH RESPITE CARE

Contact your local Visiting Angel office in Prescott or Flagstaff to request more information. A Visiting

Angels’ care coordinator will provide you with a free, no-obligation home consultation to discover and determine the services you need. The care coordinator will also answer any questions you have about Respite Care for your love one.

The thing is this, if you don’t take care of you, then you can’t take care of your loved one. Respite care is much needed for the caregiver staying at home taking care of their loved one. FBN

If you want to learn more information about Respite Care call Visiting Angels offices at 928-220-4100 or go to www. visitingangels.com/Prescott or www.visitingangels.com/Flagstaff to find out more about professional caregivers helping families with Respite Care. You can also call me directly at 928-4584729 for other eldercare services. Cecelia Jernegan is the director of Visiting Angels of Northern Arizona and the co-founder of Senior Referral Network, https://seniorreferralnetwork. org/.

National Association of Realtors Settlement: Business as Usual or Forever Changed?

By Chris Hallows

You’re Sarah, mother of three and a realtor. You love what you do. You love people and you love helping people into the “American Dream.” Sure, you think it’s corny every time you say that out loud, but you have seen lives change through home ownership and you work really hard at what you do. It’s Saturday, kids are out of school, the game is on, and you just sat down to enjoy your homemade salsa you just whipped up and RING (I know phones don’t ring anymore but go with it). It’s the Joneses. You’ve been showing them property for more than 14 months now, but this could be the one! Your brow furrows slightly as you envision the afternoon and bowl of salsa likely disappearing without your help, but you remind yourself they are the nicest people and they have the cutest dog. Your significant other gives you that look of “do you have to” while also nodding as if to say – I support you, go do you.

You’re the Joneses and you’ve recently relocated to Northern Arizona. Your home lender joked when they called it “housing-bipolar,” but it’s no joke – the highs and the lows, the excitement and the nervousness. Who would have known this was your second time purchasing? How are you supposed to remember the

process eight years ago – it seems like the entire process with forms and apps has changed anyway. You much prefer the simplicity of most of life’s purchases. You walk into a store or jump online, prices are relatively stable, maybe a bit higher right now with this inflation economy, but you’re in luck – you found a coupon. You could even have something sitting in your Amazon cart for days as you decide if that’s the perfect new collar for the dog. Sarah has been great though; she’s been with you every step of the way as you’ve seen home prices soar and rates jump up to levels not seen since Forrest Gump was on the silver screen. You do sometimes feel bad on the weekends calling, as you know she’s got a family, too, but she always reminds you that the housing market doesn’t wait for anyone, especially in the highly limited inventory of Flagstaff’s island economy.

You’re the Andersons, long-time Flagstaff residents that are making that tough decision to move to warmer weather as you’re not sure how much longer you can really tolerate these winters. You’ve owned your home for 22 years now, brought babies home there and held graduation parties as they headed off to college. Your home is a place full of memories, it’s not going to be easy to leave. You did well in your Northern Arizona profession and saved diligently in your 401K, but your financial ad-

LIAM C. BOSCH, M.D.

Proudly Offering Expert Hip & Knee Total Joint Replacement Care

Dr. Bosch helps patients regain their functionality and reduce pain, enabling them to return to their favorite activities. His areas of specialization include:

• Total knee arthroplasty

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• Total hip arthroplasty

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To schedule an appointment with Dr. Bosch, call (928) 773-2280 or text us at (928) 628-6391.

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visor continues to remind you about the sheer impact of your home equity to your retirement future. Between your savings and the proceeds of your sell, you feel confident that you’ll be able to continue a comfortable life in the more temperate climate you are heading to. Every penny counts though, and you feel only the upmost respect for Rosie, a longtime family friend and real estate expert who is going to help you get your listing on the market this spring.

Who wins in this scenario and who loses? Is a real estate transaction all about winning and losing? Is it about what’s fair? Who decides what’s fair? I wanted to start this article differently from most of the articles that have since come out after the mid-March National Association of Realtors lawsuit settlement. At risk of oversimplifying, the 30+ year industry standard in how buyer representation has been paid via proceeds of the sale is highly likely to change. Not from the standpoint that it cannot occur in that same way but in the transparency and mutual agreement between all buying and selling parties and their representation. My goal is not to catch you up entirely on the occurrences and actors. For those reading about this for the first time, do a brief Google search and come back to this article. At the time of writing, any real implications of both actual federal/state law changes as well as industry and consumer adaptations have yet to be seen and can only be speculated about.

There are more savvy buyers and less savvy buyers, there are fantastic realtors and lazy realtors, there are easy, fast deals and complex, drawn-out deals – the three perspectives in the introduction are just a small sample of the experiences in this industry. My objective in this article is to humanize the conversation and cause you to pause when you think how you will want to participate moving forward in real estate transactions. Do you believe the Joneses are better off without representation? Thinking about your own business agreements, how should Sarah, their realtor, be compensat ed? Should Sarah take on an attorney’s billing practices and either charge an upfront retainer and put their client on the clock for every phone call and showing? Should Rosie, the listing agent, use an attorney retainer model

and simply take 33% of the proceeds (current average for taking on free work in that industry). Should Rosie advise her seller not to offer buyer agent compensation to make more money for the seller? Does that mean that they’re promoting lack of representation to the buyer?

Does that disadvantage a significant segment of buyers that don’t have the seasoned experience through the negotiations to secure fair terms?

Or should we turn the marketplace entirely digital and devalue human representation and expect buyers and sellers to come to mutual arrangements and work to fully understand the implications and legalities of their buy and sell along with the conditions, representations and warranties of these six- to seven-figure Northern Arizona transactions? Who wins and who loses if we work to rely on technology platforms for transactions vs. employing people in our community to help with our real estate needs? What value is that to a community that can support small business entrepreneurship?

Complex problems require complex solutions. Will transparency increase? Yes. Will that be a good thing? Absolutely. Will there still be real estate agents? Yes, likely fewer, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Will there be massive implications to first-time home buyers, underserved demographics, and low-middle class homeowners? Absolutely. Communities and the individuals and families within them are better off in almost all measures when home ownership levels are high and struggle when those levels are lower. My only hope is that we can work together for a mutual win to the whole with the ultimate aim of increasing affordable homeownership along with fair and reasonable practices to help our community into that American Dream. FBN

For additional information or to schedule an appointment visit ChrisHallows.Benchmark.us or call 928-7078572. 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

Supporting Businesses through the Innovate Waste Challenge

By David McIntire

Business and entrepreneurship are generators of exceptional creativity, ingenuity and effort.

Historically, many of the great advances of our society have come from a combination of entrepreneurship and government working together to address common problems.

It is with this in mind that the City of Flagstaff, with multiple divisions participating, Moonshot and Northern Arizona University (NAU) are working collaboratively on the Innovate Waste Challenge. This competition provides funding from the Economic Development portion of the Bed, Board and Beverage tax to support businesses that have developed a way to address city goals in the community through a for-profit enterprise.

Whether it involves diverting waste from the landfill, conserving water or helping reduce climate impacts, if an entrepreneur has an idea for how to address the problem while creating jobs and wealth, we want to support that. The businesses that are selected as winners can receive a portion of the $30,000 challenge to help their idea

scale into a reality that makes Flagstaff better, provides real public benefit, and also creates jobs and prosperity.

The competition is aligned with Moonshot’s Rural AZ Pitch Competition tour stop event here in Flagstaff, where businesses pitch their concept for products and services in an effort to show they have the best idea. This effort has helped multiple businesses in the past to scale and grow into their benefit to the community. If you have an idea for how to make a difference while creating jobs, this may be your chance. To learn more, go to https://www.chooseflagstaff.com/innovate-waste-the-carbon-neutrality-challenge/.

In a separate program, the Sustainability and Economic Development programs at the city have teamed up to bring a Green Business Boot Camp to the Flagstaff area. Local First Arizona has delivered these educational trainings in other parts of the state, and the City of Flagstaff wants to make them available to our businesses as well. We all know it is expensive to run a business, but the Green Business Boot Camp is intended to help businesses reduce their energy and water use by up to 20%. Reducing ongoing costs for the long term is great for businesses, and reducing energy and water use is great for our community and the Flagstaff

HEALTHY FORESTS . HEALTHY FLAGSTAFF.

City Council’s Water Conservation and Climate Action goals. This is another example of how sustainability and economic development can work together for a more prosperous and resilient world. If you or your business are interested, you can learn more at https:// localfirstaz.com/green-boot-camp.

The effort to generate quality jobs with wages that allow our residents to find housing takes many different methods. It is clear that our community values finding ways to do that which also advance the green economy and create tangible public benefit on the council’s declared goals. These programs are examples of two

methods to support business with dedicated BBB economic development revenue and sustainability funds while simultaneously providing ways to help entrepreneurship generate creative and flexible ways to solve community problems. It is important to continue to show that economic development and sustainability goals are not contrary to each other but can truly align to create a more sustainable and resilient future for Flagstaff. FBN

David McIntire is the community investment director for the City of Flagstaff.

Andrew Galperin Finds Peace in the Outdoors through Back2Basics

By Roy DuPrez

Nearly six months into the recovery program at Back2Basics Outdoor Adventure Recovery, Andrew Galperin is finding his footing. When he entered the program, years of substance abuse had left him out of shape and struggling to complete the hikes and outdoor excursions B2B residents frequently take. Now, Galperin is using a rope to descend large boulders on the way to Gold Strike Hot Springs to soak, unwind and stargaze – a challenging hike that perfectly encapsulates the benefit of his time in B2B’s program.

“The Gold Strike trip and soaking and unwinding at the hot springs stand out to me because it felt so good to complete that hike,” Galperin said. “When I first came to B2B, I had let myself go and every hike was a challenge to me. It feels good to know the motivation I had to get sober and get in shape paid off.”

Galperin’s path to B2B and sobriety was a long one. He was born in San Pedro, Paraguay, and lived in an orphanage until he was 3. He was adopted by a Russian family living in

Chicago. His adopted family helped him develop a love of the outdoors through skiing and hiking trips across the country. When Galperin was 15, his stepfather died of cancer, and dealing with that pain contributed to his substance use issues. The outdoor trips with his father were top of mind when he voluntarily entered B2B’s nine-month program.

“I chose Back2Basics because of its emphasis on the outdoors,” Galperin said. “Before my dad died, he was an outdoorsy person and ski trips with my family were something I always loved. The outdoor aspect of the program spoke to me and motivated me to become a resident.”

Galperin’s first stint in recovery was in 2020 through another recovery program. The three-month inpatient program didn’t stick with him because it was too technical and the COVID-19 pandemic made connecting with his AA group difficult since online meetings were too disconnected from in-person ones.

“The first rehab program I went to was too focused on clinical discussions about the brain, no one working there went through the program and

I didn’t feel connected at meetings,” Galperin said. “Maybe I just didn’t want to hear what they had to say at the time, but I left that program and relapsed.”

Back2Basics gave Galperin a different perspective this time around, since he felt the program gave him tools that felt applicable to real life and helped him make connections with people who have been through similar experiences.

“I am not trying to be funny here, but I like Back2Basics because it really does teach you the basics,” Galperin said. “A lot of guys come in here with zero understanding of how to take care of themselves after years of substance use. I didn’t know how to cook for myself, exercise or consistently brush my teeth. The program teaches you how to take care of your basic needs in sobriety as well as gives you access to people that can help you emotionally and mentally.”

He said group meetings helped him come out of his shell because he felt connected to the other residents who also went through or were going through the program. That connection helped him share more.

“I spent the last 15 years of my life not being around people much, so it was hard for me to share, but these guys just slowly encouraged me to share more,” Galperin said. “That encouragement helped me open up and reflect on where I have ended up.”

The prevalence of alumni in the program either as employees or volunteers is an inspiring part of

Back2Basics for Galperin, so much so that he is currently an Outdoor Intern with the hopes of being an Outdoor Guide for the program one day. Nearly six months into a ninemonth program, Galperin is running his own group session at Back2Basics called “Sharing is Caring (SIC).”

“SIC is a group I organize where I

Coconino County Flood Control District, Coconino National Forest Launch Upper Rio de Flag Forest Restoration Project

By Sean Golightly

Two thousand homes, 400 businesses, two state highways, and a slew of public facilities.

According to a new set of studies commissioned by the Coconino County Flood Control District, this is just a partial list of what is at risk for post-wildfire flooding should a catastrophic wildfire impact the Upper Rio de Flag Watershed.

The two studies – a pre-fire assessment of post-wildfire flood risk by JE Fuller Hydrology and Geomorphology and an economic impact study by NAU’s Economic Policy Institute – provide an unsettling calculation of how wildfire on the 21,500-acre watershed that comprises the western slopes of the San Francisco Peaks could impact Flagstaff and the greater Flagstaff region. If the Upper Rio de Flag Watershed burns, the resulting economic impact has been estimated to range from $535 million to $2.8 billion.

Furthermore, wildfire on this watershed requires no stretch of imagination.

In 2022, a shift in winds could have easily driven the Pipeline Fire to burn across the Upper Rio De Flag Watershed. Many forested acres of the watershed are untreated, densely overgrown and loaded with “dead and down”

fuel wood. Most wildfires are human caused, and the Upper Rio De Flag has ample points of contact – highways, homes and recreational areas – where a human-caused fire could ignite.

“Future wildfires must be expected,” said Coconino County Flood Control District Administrator Lucinda Andreani. “We commissioned these two pre-wildfire studies to quantify our level of risk, inform our potential response strategies, and importantly, provide us insight on how to proactively reduce our risk of catastrophic wildfire through forest restoration.”

This year, that insight is being met with investment through the Upper Rio de Flag Forest Restoration Project.

Spearheaded by the Coconino County Flood Control District and Coconino National Forest, this project focuses on six treatment areas comprising about 12,000 acres of the watershed. The goal is to treat these six areas within the next five years through a variety of partnerships and contracts between the Forest Service, the District, the timber industry, The Nature Conservancy, The National Forest Foundation and other cooperators.

“These six projects were selected as priority areas for treatment on the basis of their potential for overall impact and our ability to implement forest

restoration quickly,” said Coconino National Forest District Ranger Matt McGrath. “These acres capture a large amount of untreated, heavy-use areas where a catastrophic wildfire may be likely to start and spread onto the San Francisco Peaks and into the wilderness areas of the Upper Rio De Flag Watershed.”

Forest restoration treatments – such as mechanical thinning and prescribed fire – are an important part of the

Forest Service’s 10-year Wildfire Crisis Strategy, which aims to address the wildfire crisis in the places where it poses the most immediate threats to communities, such as Flagstaff.

“It’s been proven that forest restoration – including mechanical thinning and prescribed fire – is an effective tool to reduce wildfire spread and severity,” said Coconino County Forest Restoration Director Jay Smith. “The completion of forest restoration

in Upper Rio De Flag Watershed will provide a multi-generational benefit to our region.”

The project also includes implementation of a “Proactive Watershed Restoration Pilot Program,” explained Andreani.

“Historically, we have only pursued watershed restoration after a wildfire, but with the help of our partners at JE Fuller Hydrology and Natural Channel

As a voice of recovery, Andrew Galperin says he has regained his joy for outdoor activities like hiking to Gold Strike Hot Springs. Courtesy photo

The initial phase of the Upper Rio de Flag Watershed Restoration Project will focus on six treatment areas, illustrated here.

World’s Oldest Rodeo Features Full Events Schedule

By Donna Werking

Prescott Frontier Days, Inc is thrilled to announce the much anticipated 137th annual World’s Oldest Rodeo, taking place from Monday, July 1 through Sunday, July 7 in Prescott. This iconic event, held during the bustling Fourth of July week, is a cornerstone of Prescott’s summer calendar, driving economic prosperity throughout the county. Featuring a week-long extravaganza of world-class rodeo action and family-friendly entertainment, the World’s Oldest Rodeo stands as Prescott’s premier event of the year.

Drawing rodeo enthusiasts from across the globe, Prescott Frontier Days invites attendees to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Western culture and history dating back to its inaugural celebration on July 4, 1888. This year, the rodeo pays tribute to the deep-rooted Western culture, embodying the theme of “Prescott Traditions.” As part of the festivities, the rodeo is launching the Memory Catcher campaign, inviting fans nationwide to share their cherished memories and stories of Prescott rodeo traditions. These stories will be featured on the rodeo’s website and social media platforms, celebrating the enduring legacy of Prescott’s premier event.

Jim Dewey Brown, general manager of Prescott Frontier Days, Inc., expressed his gratitude for the generations of rodeo families, stating, “It is an honor to highlight their stories and share the profound impact our rodeo has had on their lives over the years.” To submit your rodeo memories, please visit https://worldsoldestrodeo.com/memory-catcher

The downtown event of the week is the annual rodeo parade, themed

SNOW continued from page 13

“Prescott Traditions,” set to take place at 9 a.m., Saturday, July 6 in downtown Prescott, sponsored by Barrett Propane. The parade will kick off with the grand marshal honoree, Ibbie Champie. She is the daughter of Lawton Champie, a 13time rodeo champion across various events.

The week’s festivities around the rodeo performances will culminate at the annual rodeo dance at the Depot Marketplace/BMO Harris Bank parking lot, offering three nights of music and dance. Thursday night is family night, so bring your entire family to kick up your heels! Friday and Saturday night are slated for ages 21 and older. Tickets for the rodeo dance can be purchased at the door at $5 per person. Join us as we celebrate the enduring spirit of Western traditions at the World’s Oldest Rodeo!

PRESCOTT FRONTIER DAYS, INC PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE:

2024

ƒ Performance 1

Monday, July 1, 7:30 p.m.

The Daily Courier

ƒ Performance 2

Tuesday, July 2, 7:30 p.m.

Wrangler Bucking Cancer

ƒ Performance 3

Wednesday, July 3, 7:30 p.m.

York Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram

ƒ Performance 4

Thursday, July 4, 7:30 p.m.

First Responders Tribute

ƒ Performance 5

Friday, July 5, 7:30 p.m.

Jack Daniels

ƒ Performance 6

Saturday, July 6, 1:30 p.m.

Military Tribute

ƒ Performance 7

Saturday, July 6, 7:30 p.m. Coors

get onto those roads and get them cleared fast as soon as it stops snowing. We try to stay ahead of the storms, but even with vehicles equipped with chains, it can become overwhelming. The schools implementing late starts really help us a lot to get the roads cleared, especially if it snows early in the morning.”

And when the snow stops, the crews are busy maintaining and repairing roads. That work includes pothole patching and keeping roadway signs in good condition. Signage alone is a massive task. The city has some 16,000 signs and each one typically needs to be replaced every five to seven years because of the impact of high UV exposure and weather. FBN

ƒ Performance 8 Sunday, July 7, 1:30 p.m.

Nackard Pepsi

MUTTON BUSTIN’ | PRESCOTT RODEO GROUNDS

ƒ Monday, July 1, 6:00 p.m.

ƒ Tuesday, July 2, 6:00 p.m.

ƒ Wednesday, July 3, 6:00 p.m.

ƒ Thursday, July 4, 6:00 p.m.

ƒ Friday, July 5, 6:00 p.m.

ƒ Saturday, July 6, 12:00 p.m.

ƒ Saturday, July 6, 6:00 p.m.

ƒ Sunday, July 7, 12:00 p.m.

RODEO DAYS FINE ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW SPONSORED BY THE PRESCOTT DOWNTOWN PARTNERSHIP

ƒ Friday, July 5 – 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

ƒ Saturday, July 6 – 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

ƒ Sunday, July 7 - 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

RODEO DANCE | DEPOT MARKETPLACE/BMO HARRIS BANK 303 N. MONTEZUMA, PRESCOTT

ƒ Thursday, July 4, 2024, 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. – Family Night

ƒ Friday, July 5, 2024, 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. – Ages 21 and older

ƒ Saturday, July 6, 2024, 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.  – Ages 21 and older

KIWANIS KIDDIE PARADE, SPONSORED BY THE CITY OF PRESCOTT

ƒ Friday, July 5, 8:30 a.m. - Cortez & Goodwin Streets

PRESCOTT FRONTIER

DAYS, INC. RODEO PARADE, SPONSORED BY BARRETT PROPANE

ƒ Saturday, July 6, 9 a.m. – Courthouse Plaza / Goodwin Street

COWBOY CHURCH AT THE PRESCOTT FRONTIER DAYS

RECOVERY continued from page 24

pick a topic and the guys journal on it,” Galperin said. “After they reflect on what they wrote they share what they journaled on. It has been a great tool to help us connect.”

Nearing graduation from Back2Basics, Galperin has never felt better, and he hopes he can help others feel better in their sobriety, too. FBN

RODEO GROUNDS

ƒ Sunday, July 7, 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.

WHISKEY ROW BOOT RACE

SPONSORED BY BUDWEISER

ƒ Saturday, July 6, 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. | Downtown Prescott, Arizona

Join us for a week of unforgettable rodeo experiences and the celebration of enduring traditions. Tickets are on sale now only at www. worldsoldestrodeo.com where you can purchase via our only certified ticket vendor, Rodeo Tickets. The rodeo ticket office is open 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Monday - Friday. For all media inquiries, please contact Donna Werking at NorthernAZsocial@ gmail.com. The Prescott rodeo office is located at 840 Rodeo Drive Prescott, AZ 86305. For other inquiries, please contact the Prescott Rodeo Office at 928-445-

3103 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.  Learn more at www.worldsoldestrodeo.com FBN

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.

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.

Vold Pro Rodeo Company leads the Grand Entry in this file photo.

Photo courtesy of Blushing Cactus Photography

Flagstaff First Addresses Wildfire, Flood Crisis

By Tom Pearson

The results of two exhaustive studies on wildfire and flooding threats to the west side of the San Francisco Peaks were recently presented to the Coconino County Board of Supervisors. The two-part presentation by J.E. Fuller Hydrology and Northern Arizona University addressed both the physical and economic impacts of devastating wildfires and subsequent flooding in the Upper Rio De Flag Watershed. Their conclusion: Flooding could impact 2,000 structures and inflict $2.8 billion in damage and lost wages following a major wildfire.

It is this daunting threat that motivates the grassroots community group, Flagstaff First. Almost a year ago, several flood-impacted residents of Flagstaff came together seeking ways to improve city preparedness for the ongoing threat of wildfires and flooding that have repeatedly devastated the east, west and center of Flagstaff and Coconino County.

To transform city fire and flood planning from reactive to proactive, Flagstaff First submitted a citizen petition that is now being considered by the Flagstaff City Council. The petition states:

This petition requests the City Coun-

cil add Wildfire, Flooding, and Drought to the current Priorities listed in the Carbon Neutrality Plan (CNP). These three are the most direct environmental threats identified by a Flagstaff-specific climate vulnerability assessment and highlighted in the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan on pages 17 and 18. Include in the CNP specific goals and strategies for addressing Prevention, Detection, and Suppression of Wildfire; Mitigation of Flooding; and Preparation for Drought.

The most frequent response from those reading the petition has been, “You mean wildfire, flooding and drought are not top priorities in the CNP?” The short answer is, they used to be, but they aren’t now. Back in 2018, a Flagstaff-specific study concluded that wildfire, flooding and drought are Flagstaff’s greatest climate change threats. Recognizing these threats, the original Climate Action and Adaptation Plan presented a balanced program of Carbon Neutrality and Climate Adaptation. Adaptation deals with the actions we can take locally to reduce the impact of climate change.

Flagstaff’s only Climate Action plan today is the Carbon Neutrality Plan (CNP). As the name suggests, this plan focuses almost exclusively on reduc-

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ing CO2 in the atmosphere. Wildfire, flooding and drought are not top priorities in the CNP. These threats are imminent and catastrophic. A proactive and comprehensive climate adaptation plan must be restored to the CNP.

Adding wildfire, flooding and drought back into the plan may seem like common sense, but there is opposition to this idea. Here are some of the objections and Flagstaff First’s reply.

The CNP already prioritizes Wildfire, Flooding and Drought. Not really. Of the CNP’s 162 pages, only nine pages are devoted to a single climate adaptation topic, Forest Health. It is listed in a subheading under Priority Four: Our Commitments. This single Climate Adaptation project, although critically important, isn’t the comprehensive integrated program Flagstaff so desperately needs.

Wildfire, flooding and drought are priorities of multiple, current implementation projects.This statement is true. Numerous multi-million-dollar wildfire, flood and drought projects are planned or underway. However, these essential climate adaptation programs are not included in the CNP. Ignoring the critical priorities (wildfire, flooding and drought) in the city’s only climate action plan invites additional disaster.

Why change the Carbon Neutrality

Plan? It’s fine just the way it is. Actually, the CNP has been revised numerous times. It was during the 2022 revision that “Forest Health” was added to the plan. But the CNP is still devoted almost exclusively to carbon neutrality. By including wildfire, flooding and drought as a top priority, the Flagstaff First petition will restore a reasonable balance between climate mitigation and climate adaptation that was originally

in the 2018 Climate Action and Adaptation Plan.

What Flagstaff First shares with those who disagree with their petition is the goal of ensuring Flagstaff’s sustainability. We know from the county’s recent studies that Flagstaff remains under imminent threat of both catastrophic wildfire and flooding. Only by including those essential com-

•

Catastrophic wildfires like the Pipeline Fire of 2022 have impacted tens of thousands of acres of forest around Flagstaff. Courtesy photo

Understanding Hormone Imbalance in Men

By Christina Kovalik

Men also can experience a decline in hormones and should know that it could happen at any age. Men rarely hear about this topic, or they think that hormone imbalances only occur in women. Hormone imbalance can happen at any age and stage of life for both men and women. More men need to be aware of hormone imbalance symptoms and management.

Many people are aware of the normal changes teenagers experience during the hormonal shifts of puberty: acne, hair growth, deepened voice

and muscle development. Teenage boys often experience mood changes and cognitive shifts when hormone production spikes during growth spurts and then regulates after.

During that time, it can be helpful to correct nutrient deficiencies, learn stress management skills and have emotional outlets.

Men ages 30-45 may also experience hormone shifts as well until they enter “man-o-pause.” It can be called either andropause or androgen deficiency in aging males (ADAM). It is often underdiagnosed and undertreated. Although this transition is not as dramatic or talked about as

Men ages 30-45 may also experience hormone shifts as well until they enter “man-o-pause.” It can be called either andropause or androgen deficiency in aging males (ADAM). It is often underdiagnosed and undertreated. Although this transition is not as dramatic or talked about as menopause, it can still be detrimental to a man’s overall health.

menopause, it can still be detrimental to a man’s overall health.

Common symptoms of imbalance for men ages 20-40 include fatigue, sleep problems, acne, weight challenges and stress.

ADAM symptoms in men older than 40 include fatigue, weight gain, increased weight in the middle (visceral fat), low libido/erectile dysfunction, decreased muscle tone, depression, anxiety, sleep issues, stress, cardiovascular risks and diabetes risks.

Effects of low hormones on the aging man:

ƒ Age-related decline of androgens (testosterone and DHEA) and multiple hormone deficiencies leading to andropause symptoms and increase in comorbid conditions like myocardial infarction, coronary atherosclerosis, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, obesity, hypertension and osteoporosis.

ƒ Testosterone insufficiency associated with increased mortality rate.

TESTOSTERONE

Testosterone is a steroid, androgen hormone produced in the ovaries, testes and adrenal glands. It helps build and sustain muscle, decrease fat accumulation and improve healing, skin tone, libido, mood, cognition and hand-eye coordination. It is also protective to breast and prostate tissue and can protect against diabetes, insulin resistance and cardiovascular disease. Testosterone benefits the neurological, immune, vascular and musculoskeletal systems. It can prolong life. Contraindications for taking testosterone are hormone active cancers.

Symptoms of Low Testosterone:

ƒ Fatigue

ƒ Low muscle tone

ƒ Low libido

ƒ Depression and irritability

ƒ Low cognition

ƒ Osteoporosis

ƒ Erectile dysfunction

aging process, a simple blood test can determine if hormone optimization is right for you. It is important to go to a physician who is familiar with hormone optimization and is a hormone specialist. It is normal to have a decline in hormone levels with aging but not optimal levels where patients feel the best and get the benefit of hormone optimization. When your hormones are optimal, it reduces the progression of age-related diseases. Men can safely be on TRT (Testosterone replacement therapy) for the rest of their lives as long as the blood levels and prostate health are monitored and they feel great. 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. //

ƒ Decrease in hormones resulting in increased cognitive decline.

ƒ Low testosterone can be a cause for erectile dysfunction.

//

“We serviced an area from east to west borders, and northern border down to Phoenix and Prescott. We lost two pulmonologists shortly after NAH canceled our contract. Across the country, following the stress on pulmonary critical care physicians after COVID, many retired early, leaving a national shortage. Our state had (and still has) a significant shortage.”

The NAPA group also has been assisting pulmonary patients in the Verde Valley.

“Our group had also been graciously covering Verde Valley Medical Center inpatient pulmonary consults without any contract with NAH, out of compassion for the community, since the passing of their community pulmonologist,” Poulos added.

In March 2023, a lifeline was thrown to the pulmonary care crisis when NAPA was able to partner with Numo Health, a virtual pulmonary clinic that leverages cutting-edge technology to transform the delivery of health care.

This collaboration meant Poulos was able to continue to treat Grobsmith. “Patients who live at Flagstaff altitude and are unfortunate enough to have underlying lung diseases often suffer tremendously,” he said.

“It takes significant time and effort to bring their pulmonary disease under control and keep it controlled. Liz is an amazing woman with a great spirit. She has been a trouper, and we have managed to keep her well controlled, out of the hospital ER, and stabilized with an improved quality of life.”

Although not part of the launching of Numo Health, Poulos has been involved since the beginning in creating NAPA’s partnership with Numo. Navya Davuluri, Ph.D., a resident of Sunnyvale, California, is founder and CEO of Numo Health. Davuluri approached the NAPA group, Poulos said.

“She had been visiting sites around Northern Arizona and had heard the concerns of many primary care physicians that our practice was closing,” he said. “She approached us as a partnership to help ‘off-load’ some of our overhead, while simultaneously improving access to care and improving in-home management of complex pulmonary diseases.”

According to the Numo Health website, the inspiration for Numo started when Davuluri helped care for her grandfather, who suffered from COPD. His final two years of life were challenging and compounded by the glaring shortcomings present

ƒ Low hormones cause an increase in visceral fat (belly fat) and inflammation in men.

in the traditional pulmonary care model. Telehealth was not available and communicating and transmitting critical information was a considerable burden as a caregiver.

She knew there must be a better way to help him. Davuluri was able to help her grandfather by relaying his treatment plan and prescriptions by phone to a care team that was tasked with passing that information on to a specialist.

Davuluri is considered an expert in the application of bioengineering techniques to the monitoring of chronic health conditions. She explained the meaning of the company name. “Numo is a play on two words: ‘Nu’ comes from pneumo, which means relating to lungs, and ‘Mo’ comes from monitoring,” Davuluri said. “It is a reference to monitoring lung health.”

She has spent the majority of her academic and professional careers working on technology that captures and quantifies a patient’s day-to-day condition outside of the hospital or clinic, as well as facilitating improved communication between doctors and patients regarding this crucial information.

The mission of Numo Health is to provide revolutionary pulmonary care from the comfort of a patient’s

ƒ Weight gain; increases visceral (belly) fat, resulting in insulin resistance

ƒ Benign prostatic hyperplasia

If you have symptoms of low testosterone often associated with the normal

home, which includes features such as easy appointment booking, ability to speak directly to doctors and easy access through a secure portal to questions about care plans, billing and medications. Existing patients are also provided with a Numo electronic tablet that helps patients and doctors track their health from a distance.

In addition, in-house pulmonary function tests (PFT) are important tools in recovery. “The collaboration with Numo has also enabled NAPA to purchase two new PFT machines and now offers full PFTs in the office, at a fraction of the cost as a hospital-based PFT,” Poulos explained.

“We have 25 staff members that include pulmonologists, internists, nurses, care coordinators, medical receptionists, healthcare operations personnel, AI engineers, sales and marketing personnel,” said Davuluri.

Grobsmith says she continues to have a great response to treatment. She is using telehealth for most of her appointments, which provides added flexibility without compromising care. She will soon start remote patient monitoring to track her respiratory needs.

“I see Dr. Poulos at Numo now,” Grobsmith said. “They provide every patient with an iPad, so we can do

interactive meetings. We spend 45 minutes on the phone or the iPad. We talk about my symptoms and what’s happening or not happening. I have full access. I can see him in person, but I haven’t needed to yet. I am doing well. It’s a great story.”

Today, doing well for Grobsmith includes coughing only about 10% of the time. This has enabled her to continue her work in the community, where she serves on the board of Master Chorale and the NAU College of Arts and Letters.

“I’m doing a lot more singing than I used to,” she said.

In July, she will be one of 38 singers from Master Chorale and various community members who will be traveling to Paris on a Music Celebrations International choir tour to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

Perhaps most importantly, Grobsmith, who is widowed, wants to be healthy enough to enjoy her family life with her twin children and her four grandchildren.

“I am very blessed,” she said. “I will be taking my 12-year-old granddaughter to Paris with me.” FBN

PULMONOLOGY ontinued from page 3

is studying the feasibility of converting a diesel-electric locomotive to a regenerative battery locomotive. Regenerative battery technology allows a recharge of the locomotive batteries from the braking systems while the train is traveling downhill, according to Grand Canyon Railway General Manager Jeff D’Arpa.

The Grand Canyon route could be ideal for this technology since the trip goes downhill from Williams at an elevation of 6,770 feet to roughly a midpoint below 6,000 feet and then uphill to the South Rim at 6,800 feet.

Grand Canyon Railway is considering applying for a U.S. Department of Transportation grant for the locomotive conversion, D’Arpa said.

The battery-powered electric locomotive could be charged with solar panels at its locomotive shop in Williams, according to Langner.

Xanterra’s motto is “legendary hospitality with a softer footprint,” he explained.

As part of that ethic, Xanterra has its Operation Shrivelly Apples, which collects outdated fruits and vegetables, and other food waste from its restaurants to feed the mules at the Grand Canyon mule barn.

“There’s always an interesting twist that our teams implement,” Langner said.

A Xanterra partner – Kastlfel – makes t-shirts sold at Xanterra’s South Rim gift shops from recycled plastic bottles. It takes about six 16-ounce plastic bottles to make one shirt, which keeps those bottles out of the landfill, according to Kastlfel.

The Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce also gave an honorable mention to Nackard Pepsi and Forest Highlands for each company’s Green Business efforts.

Last year, Arizona Snow Bowl was the Green Business Award winner for large companies and Quality Connections was the winner for smaller companies.

Mother Road Brewery was the first Green Business Award winner two years ago.

Of course, Flagstaff and the rest of the nation will celebrate Earth Day on April 22. It has been celebrated since 1970, marking the beginning of the modern environmental movement. FBN

Sampling Verde Valley’s Bounty from Pecan Farms and Wineries

By V. Ronnie Tierney, FBN

The 23rd annual Pecan and Wine Festival in Camp Verde featured 15 wineries from around the state.

As promised, pecans and wines were there for the tasting. By 2:30 p.m., Saturday, March 16, 1,000 glasses of wine had been sold. “We sold more pre-sale tickets for wine tasting than ever before,” said Verde Valley Wine Consortium President Paula Woosley. “We were slammed busy.”

“Despite the challenges that we had with the weather such as wind, rain and some hail, this year was one of our biggest ever,” said Town of Camp Verde Parks and Recreation Division Manager and event organizer Michael Marshall. “We partner with Verde Valley Wine Consortium to help us with the wine expertise and the Northern Arizona Blues Alliance put together the live music with a blues and roots review.”

The two-day event is held the third weekend in March to celebrate the region’s pecan growers and wineries. It is free to attend; wine-tasting tickets can be purchased online or at the event. FBN

Dean and Alicia Hettel of New Jersey found the festival while camping nearby. “We love festivals like this,” said Alicia. “It’s so nice because we can taste the wine and if we like it, buy a bottle. It’s also nice that it’s outside and we can connect with people.” Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

Town of Camp Verde Parks and Recreation Leader II Sarah Woodson, Recreation Supervisor Shawna Figy and Division Manager and coordinator of the event Michael Marshall offered information about local farms and wineries.

From the multi-mixer we started getting our ideas. It’s kind of this off-green color, a jade color, and we started using that as our focal point.”

Relocating the bathroom to an outside location, adding another patio facing the Flagstaff High School track and creating a new dry storage area and a roomier kitchen are all improvements that enhance access and functionality.

Also, the drive-thru has been converted to a digital drive-thru.

Completing the trendy diner look are fabricated counters, made by Mama B’s General Manager Ryan Boser, as well as tables with touches of local metal work and new tiles in a black-and-white checkered pattern.

“We cannot tell you how beautifully this building has turned out,” Chavez said. “I used to cringe coming in here. I always wanted to provide a better working environment for them. Now we have that. It’s just an amazing little building.”

An extensive hiring process in March topped off the to-do list for a successful reopening, made smoother by the rehiring of Boser (aka Budda), as general manager. “He was the former GM when we closed,” Chavez explained. “He reached out to me and asked if we had anybody to run the place. That was one of my fears, as we were getting closer to opening date. We didn’t have anyone we would trust to run it. He came onboard immediately. In doing so, we were able to get nine other employees that we had closed with to come back.”

WOMEN continued from page 14

and equip.

“Whether it be domestic violence, pregnancy, homelessness, poverty, family conflicts, we are here to serve them and walk alongside them and support them with educational classes and a wide variety of life skills such as how to have healthy boundaries and holistic parenting,” said Hope Women’s Center Manager Callie Hicks.

Currently, Hope Women’s Center is reorganizing its operations to prioritize day center services and launch a new Hope on the Road mobile program to extend outreach to more women throughout Northern Arizona. As a result, it will be closing its Hope Thrifts store in Camp Verde by June 1.

Founded in 1984 in Apache Junction, Hope Women’s Center will be celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Its annual fundraiser will be in September. “This year’s theme will be ‘Hope as an Anchor,’” said Larson-Bradley. FBN

For more information, visit www.hopewomenscenter.org.

Original plans called for expansion, but city requirements to level out the parking lot and provide a sidewalk before expansion proved too expensive.

“After doing the math, we did not have the funds,” she said. “We quickly realized we needed to stay within our walls, and we’re OK with doing that. We paid for this on our own, with no loans, which we’re very proud of.”

Delays caused by drawn out asbestos testing and a record-breaking hard winter extended the time of the remodeling project.

“We basically experienced one of the hardest winters that Flagstaff has had,” Chavez recalled. “Our contractor was up on the roof shoveling snow.”

Public interest in the timing of the reopening became more vocal, and rumors clouded the story.

“Rumors were going around that the building had sold, that it was under new management, but none of that was true,” she said. “We didn’t feel the need to inform the public. It kind of opens you up to a can of worms. Realistically, you don’t have answers, just waiting on other people as far as dates and times, so we were quiet.”

The renovation presented a timely chance to redo the graphics and menu for the diner and included a new name – Mama B’s – with a green chili as the apostrophe.

“The menu brought in a little more of a Southwest feel, a little spicier,”

Chavez said.

“Currently there are only two returning burgers, the MOAB (The Mother of All Burgers), and the Mama Burger. There are three new burgers, and we downsized on our milkshakes. To soften the blow, we have specialty burgers and shakes.

Monthly specials will give the chefs an opportunity to bring back older items from the original menu, such as the Bleu Vader burger with mayo, bacon, grilled onion, lettuce, tomato, green peppers, and Gorgonzola cheese.

The Shake of the Month for March was the Girl Scout Thin Mint shake. Also served are floats and malts and customers can fashion their own malts with mix-in additions.

A new and fun burger on the menu is the Scheppy burger, a burger Schepper discovered in El Reno, Oklahoma that includes sweet onions shaved super thin and smashed into the beef.

In addition to ever-popular French fries, Mama B’s features tater tots, also big hits.

“I always find it interesting to have grown men come in and order tater tots, which is a staple offered in elementary schools,” she said with a laugh.

The current location, close to schools and neighborhoods, has also been fortuitous.

“It’s right next to Coconino Estates and down the road from Cheshire,” she noted. “We’re really it for them as far as restaurants.”

They also attract a steady stream of locals and visitors traveling up North Fort Valley Road on the way to the Museum of Northern Arizona, Arizona Snowbowl and beyond to the Grand Canyon, 75 miles north.

Chavez was born in Houston, Texas, but was raised in San Diego. Schepper was born in Bloomington, Indiana. They both moved to Flagstaff at 19 years old to attend Northern Arizona University and Coconino Community College respectively.

They met in Flagstaff and have been married 25 years. Their two grown daughters, Madeline and Olivia, were both born and raised in Flagstaff.

After studying business at CCC, Schepper started Fratelli Pizza with his brother.

Chavez was a probation officer for five years with Coconino County, before switching to being a full-time mother, while also assisting part-time at the family restaurants.

Fratelli Pizza has been greatly successful, with three locations now in Flagstaff, including one just down the road from Mama B’s.

“Mama B’s is happy to be back, and we’re excited about feeding Flagstaff once again whether it’s burgers, papas (potatoes) or shakes,” she said. FBN

Grand Canyon Chamber Shares Campaign to Promote the Region

By V. Ronnie Tierney, FBN

With some grand ideas and deep enthusiasm about partnerships, leaders at the Grand Canyon Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau met with the local business community and the Grand Canyon Rotary Club to hear how “All Roads Lead to the Grand Canyon.”

In the marketing presentation, Grand Canyon Chamber of Commerce Past President and Buck Wild Hummer Tours Manager Stoney Ward and incoming President and Pink Jeep Grand Canyon Tours General Manager James Trautman outlined their strategies after attending the Governor’s Conference on Tourism in Phoenix last July.

“We won the Arizona Tourism Award. Our presentation created interest because people liked the fact that we weren’t just wanting to advertise for Tusayan and the Grand Canyon but for Kingman, Flagstaff, Williams, Page and Sedona,” said Ward, who pointed out that both he and Trautman operated competing tour guide businesses. “We went from business competitors to work-

ing together to strengthen businesses and communities working together.”

They brought attention to the interactive Digital Visitors Guide featured on the Grand Canyon Chamber of Commerce website, which offers 65 pages of information about the area, including hiking, maps, videos and links to helpful facts to plan a Grand Canyon and Northern Arizona vacation.”

“Having been raised here in Northern Arizona, I see a bright future for the Northern Arizona cities,” said newly elected Grand Canyon Chamber of Commerce Vice President Miranda Baldosky. “We are striving to create a network of businesses that want to work together and help build each other up.”

“The event was well organized and it was great to see the excitement,” said Greg Espinoza, group sales manager of Squire Resorts at the Grand Canyon.

“The Digital Visitors Guide is using technology to the fullest, not just for Tusayan but for our neighboring cities. Their visitors are our visitors. We should work together since we share the same customer(s).” FBN

Grand Canyon Chamber of Commerce Past President Stoney Ward presented the new Digital Visitors Guide. Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

Mama B’s offers specialty burgers to pair with the shake of the month. Courtesy photo

WRANGLER continued from page 12

ally leave as early as 4:30 a.m. in the summertime. “We won’t ride in the dark because the mules can’t see well enough to pick through the trail, so we’ll wait for twilight when they can see. That’s kind of the unwritten rule for Xanterra and NPS.”

When they ride down to Phantom Ranch at the bottom of the canyon, they spend the night. “We also mainly stick to Bright Angel Trail since we have to service Havasupai Gardens Ranger Station. The only reason we are on South Kaibab this winter is because of the Transcanyon Waterline (TCWL) project.  Typically, we hit Bright Angel Trail by 7 a.m. or 8 a.m., and that’s a five-hour ride one way.”

Overnight stays at Phantom Ranch occur about five times a month.

Sometimes Joseph will trek to deeper parts of the Grand Canyon such as Cottonwood Campground and Manzanita Rest Area. “We deliver parts and stock for the compost toilets there.”

Joseph typically has a train of 12 mules. “Generally, we have two packers.  The last mule is called the whip mule, because they whip around the corners. We have a great crew and they’re all my friends. We text each other, laugh and get to enjoy the Grand Canyon. Meeting hikers on the trail is always fun, too, and I’m always learning.”

Before hiking the Grand Canyon,

northern Alabama resident Joey Bishop did his research and learned that giving the right of way to the mules was proper protocol on the trails. While hiking South Kaibab Trail, Bishop said he saw a mule train about one mile away. “It was such an awesome feeling when they passed us. The organization of the mules was amazing, and I could tell the wranglers were experienced. They are truly the lifelines of Phantom Ranch.”

A memorable winter ride up South Kaibab Trail in snow and high winds is a day Joseph won’t forget. “There were two of us wranglers and we each had four mules. We were coming up to the O’Neil Saddle and everything was good. We met a hiker coming down who told us to watch out, as the winds were pretty brutal. As we rounded our way up to Cedar Ridge, the wind was blowing so strong it blew me off my mule. We had to get down on our hands and knees for a bit and then walked up to Ooh Aah Point. Our mustaches, eyebrows were iced. Once we got closer to the top there were large snowdrifts and once again had to walk.”

“As Matthew’s parents, we have enjoyed his stories and adventures at the Grand Canyon,” said his mom, Renee Joseph, a dental hygienist in Prescott. “His hunger for knowledge and willingness to learn should be admired. We are so proud of his

dedication and work ethic. He is a true cowboy.”

Joseph was born in San Diego and grew up surfing, sailing and scuba diving. After visiting his Aunt Doris who owned two horses in Chino, he caught the bug. “She taught me how to ride when I was about eight years old. I thought it was the coolest thing I’d ever done. Later on in my life, I started wrangling horses. I’m very grateful to my Aunt Doris for opening the doors to me for this amazing career.”

FAVORITE PARTS OF THE DAY

My favorite parts of the day are early morning, while it’s still dark, before the world is awake and end of day, the golden hour.

LAST MOMENT OF NOSTALGIA

I came across a Mark Knopfler (Dire Straights) song I hadn’t heard in a long time. It’s called, “You Don’t Know You’re Born,” and it reminded me when I was a kid backpacking with my dad in the Western Sierras, Yosemite Wilderness.

HOBBY TO EXPLORE

In the Scottish Highland Games, the hammer throw is where men throw a 22-pound piece of metal. It’s usually guys in kilts running around in traditional dress. I came across it and it looks like fun. My family is Scottish

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and Irish and I’ve always been a sports guy. The mules will probably think I’m nuts.

LAST TIME I SANG OUT LOUD

I don’t remember when I sang out loud, but I do whistle. I like Willy Nelson’s “Red Headed Stranger” song and Willy’s tempo in that song.

PEOPLE I ADMIRE

I admire my parents and former GCNP Wrangler Ed Forbis, who was also a Marlboro Man at one time in his life. Also, Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius. FBN

On their way to Phantom Ranch, the Grand Canyon National Park animal packers descend from Windy Ridge down South Kaibab Trail.

Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

WEATHERFORD continued from page 1

FIRE continued from page 26

ponents of climate adaptation, wildfire, flooding and drought as top priorities in the CNP, can the city carry out its true mission of protecting the community through comprehensive climate action. FBN

Tom Pearson is the chairman of Flagstaff First. He is a retired Naval Officer with 28 years of service, 10 years aboard destroyers and replenishment ships and 18 years as a meteorologist and oceanographer. He currently serves on the board of the Sunshine Rescue Mission and volunteers as a telescope operator at Lowell Observatory.

COUNTY continued from page 24

been a decades-long commitment. Our hope has always been to share it with the world.”

Wednesdays at the Weatherford presenters include local historian, actor and screenwriter Drew Purcell, who will be bringing little known stories about the hotel’s colorful past to life on Wednesday, April 3, with “Unanswered Questions from the History of the Weatherford Hotel.”

Mysteries include why a well-regarded Prescott community member shot up the hotel’s lobby in 1912 and why Mr. Weatherford was called “Colonel,” despite not having any military background.

On Wednesday, May 1, Richard McGaugh, a fourth generation Arizonan, will present “Steam on the Mountain: The Early History of Flagstaff’s Railroad and Logging.” McGaugh quotes the late historian Platt Cline, author of “They Came to the Mountain: The Story of Flagstaff’s Beginnings,” who said, “If Flagstaff was fathered by the railroad, then its mother was the lumber industry.”

On Wednesday, June 5, Barbara Bates and Susan Olberding, members of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Coconino Chapter, will speak about “Yesterday and Today with DAR”

and how 13 women gathered in 1927 with the goal of supporting historic preservation, education and patriotism in Flagstaff. Ninety-seven years later, DAR continues its efforts here today. “Old buildings and the stories behind them make Flagstaff different from other mountain towns,” said CJ Lucke, a TCLT board member. “Remembering who and what came before us is a gift to help us appreciate why we live here and what we need to protect.” FBN

Wednesdays at the Weatherford will be in the hotel’s Exchange Pub, 23 N. Leroux St. Discounted appetizers and specials will be offered to attendees. For more information, visit weatherfordhotel.com or call 928-779-1919.

Design, we have identified opportunities in the Upper Rio De Flag Watershed to restore watershed function proactively. This will provide ecological benefits while putting us one step ahead of potential post-wildfire flooding.”

The current cost estimate to treat the six project areas of the Upper Rio De Flag Watershed is $26 million. The District and Forest Service have accounted for roughly $13 million of that expense so far, with the Forest Service taking lead on the development of contracts, grants or allocations necessary to account for the remaining funds.

On March 26, The Coconino County Flood Control District Board of Directors approved about $7.6 million of capital expenditures to support forest restoration projects in the Upper Rio de Flag Watershed, as well as on Bill Williams Mountain, another active forest restoration project. This investment will support contracts to provide forest

treatments this year.

“When we consider the economic, ecological and cultural cost of wildfire on the San Francisco Peaks, the investment into proactive forest restoration measures is not just sensible, it is imperative,” said Coconino County District 1 Supervisor Patrice Horstman. “We’re putting our money where our mouth is to reduce the two greatest public safety threats in Coconino County – catastrophic wildfire and post-wildfire flooding.” FBN

For more information on the Upper Rio de Flag Forest Restoration Project, visit www. coconino.az.gov/UpperRioRestoration

May

RESERVATIONS:

The restored Weatherford Hotel continues to serve as a centerpiece in Flagstaff’s Historic Downtown District and focal point for celebrations like the Fourth of July.

This historic photo of the Weatherford Hotel, circa 1900, captures the elegance of the Victorian building before a devastating fire destroyed its decorative wrap-around balconies in the 1920s.

Courtesy photos

Sean Golightly is the community relations manager for Coconino County.

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