INSIDE THE OCTOBER 2021 ISSUE: Hiring Troubles Continue p. 3 Noble Herb Growing p. 4 Robyn Allen is Prescott-Area ATHENA p. 10 FBN Reporter Launches Pilgrimage Guidebook p. 12
Mechanic Urges Attention to Car Care p. 14 Community Profile: Wayne Jones Marks Nearly Five Decades with Bashas’ p. 17
‘Homegrown’ Wind, Solar Energy Project Approved on Babbitt Ranches A legacy of land stewardship and conservation included in agreements
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By Bonnie Stevens, FBN
raising Babbitt Ranches for the way the family business manages its operations and citing the Babbitt family’s long-running reputation for land stewardship and conservation practices, the Coconino County Planning and Zoning
Commission unanimously approved a wind and solar project on Babbitt Ranches about 30 miles north of Flagstaff. The action allows NextEra Energy Resources to move forward with the Babbitt Ranch Renewable Energy Center (BREC, pronounced B-REC) across 669 acres of a nearly 50,000-
acre site, located seven-and-a-half miles southeast of Valle on the CO Bar Ranch, which includes the Babbitts’ private land and State Trust Land.
A DEFINING MOMENT
During the Aug. 25 meeting with the commission, Babbitt Ranches President and General Manager Billy Cordasco shared a story about the turning point in the company’s 135-
year history. “In 1990, Babbitts was going through a lot of successional changes. One of the things that was happening for Babbitt Ranches was the pressure to sell. We had offers from neighboring entities and there ended up being this big push for 40acre development. Because Babbitts was going through a lot of successional changes, we actually said, ‘We have to say either yes or no to our
FLY FLAGSTAFF FIRST!
Continued on page 40
Study Promotes Flagstaff Among Top Cities for Restaurant Workers
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John Conley, owner of Salsa Brava Mexican Grill and Fat Olives, questions the validity of the report that puts Flagstaff on par with the national average for the cost of living. Photo by Stacey Wittig
October 2021 | Issue 10 Volume 14
By Stacey Wittig, FBN
he Flagstaff metropolitan area ranks second for U.S. metros that provide restaurant workers with the best opportunity for healthy wages, an abundance of jobs and a more affordable cost of living, according to a recent study by moveBuddha.com. The study ranks all U.S. metros to find the best conditions for working in a restaurant as a cook, server or host. The team at moveBuddha.com, which conducted the study, used data for the Flagstaff Metro Area that includes all of Coconino County. The combined metropolitan area has an estimated population of 145,101. Maddie Agee, assistant manager at Agee’s in Munds Park, agrees that the Flagstaff area is a good place to be for restaurant workers. She points to the small-town atmosphere, where it’s easy to make connections; the climate; and the kindness of small business owners and management. “In all honesty, this is a very kind place to work. In the two previous restaurants where I worked, the management was very kind and understanding,” she said. Agee began her career Continued on page 43
CHECK OUT OUR NEW FBN PET NEWS SECTION, COVERING A VARIETY OF SUBJECTS ABOUT OUR FAVORITE FURRY FRIENDS ON PAGE 24
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OCTOBER 2021 // Flagstaff Business News
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Arizona’s Hiring Woes May Be Here to Stay Experts offer tips for employers seeking workers
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By Theresa Bierer, FBN
s the national worker shortage is mirrored in Arizona, many employers are wondering how they can attract good people. Charn McAllister, a management professor at Northern Arizona University’s Franke College of Business, says the pandemic delivered a one-two punch. “The losses suffered by most people reminded them of their own mortality and they had time on their hands to think about what mattered to them.” McAllister sees more employees who want to work for organizations doing good in their communities and the world, a trend he says savvy leaders will integrate into their business practices to potentially aid in recruitment and retention. Companies offering staffing help are especially busy this fall. In Arizona, employees of Express Employment Professionals talk to hundreds of would-be workers each week, looking for good candidates for the state’s prospering economy. Daria Orozco, an owner of one of Arizona’s nine Express offices, says the high demand for employees comes at a time when people are taking themselves out of the workforce either temporarily or permanently. “Employers need to listen to the call of what employees are wanting,” said Orozco. “For a lot of companies, that means reevaluating their compensation plans to attract new workers.” The pandemic also has created additional remote work possibilities, a movement employers can embrace to become competitive, added Orozco. Another primary piece of advice she offers is
for businesses to increase the amount of training for employees. “There could be a candidate who has all the soft skills, but if the company doesn’t have a training program in place to help that person get the [additional] skills needed, the company is not hiring that candidate.” Like Orozco, McAllister sees additional training options as pivotal, especially for people who have the potential to succeed. “If those employees do excel, offer opportunities for them to grow as professionals, whether that be increased levels of responsibility or by earning external credentials,” said McAllister, who adds that companies committed to employees’ growth may be rewarded with greater loyalty. Retaining employees is especially important in this competitive hiring environment. “Organizations need to look at why employees are leaving, if they are leaving, and close that back door,” said Orozco. Offering leadership training to managers could be a key to keeping good people, she added. The problem facing employers trying to recruit talent is not going away, Orozco predicts. “Employees want more from their jobs than they did before the pandemic, and employers who are listening are the ones who will continue to grow during this time.” Ironically, Orozco’s company, Express Employment Professionals, is looking to expand in Prescott and Flagstaff, dependent on qualified, would-be franchisees. Citing a robust economy, Baby Boomer retirements, and Arizona’s unprecedented business growth, Orozco sees her company and other staffing agencies continuing to thrive in the long term. FBN
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Changes Ahead for Flagstaff Dispensary Noble Herb brings new name, location and products
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By Betsey Bruner, FBN
he menu summons visions of tantalizing treats: Banana Hammock, French Cookies, White Dream, Caramel Nips, Jilly Bean, Charged Blackberry Gummies, Bubba Cheese and Dragon Fruit. No, this is not a restaurant menu, but rather, a tiny portion of a very comprehensive list of products offered for sale at Noble Herb, formerly Greenhouse of Flagstaff, a leading local dispensary offering a vast selection of cannabis products for medical and recreational use. Established in 2013 by brothers Ryan and Brandon Hermansky in partnership with their long-time friend, Doug Daly, the business has focused on creating a unique shopping experience by providing high-grade cannabis products, short customer wait times and affordable prices at the dispensary, located a mile east of downtown Flagstaff on North Switzer Drive. Another feature of the store is the personalized service and education given by “budtenders,” trained dispensary staff members employed to answer questions and concerns from experienced users, as well as first-time
shoppers, all adults 21 years and older. According to a September press release, “To date, the dispensary is one of the few to remain local and completely self-funded.” The eight years of operation have been fruitful and have led to an evolution that includes a redesigned website, new logo and most notably, the new name, Noble Herb, which launched Sept. 15. The co-founders believe the rebrand is a natural extension of profound and positive changes in the cannabis industry as a whole. “This has been an undeniable breakout time for our industry, with adult-use now legal and more people recognizing the medicinal benefits of cannabis than ever before,” said Ryan Hermansky. “Noble Herb’s rebranding is so much more than a new name. It’s an opportunity for us to share who we are and what our vision is in such a dynamic industry.” He noted there was still “a bit of a stigma around the industry” when the partners first started their business. Some believed there was very little growth opportunity in the cannabis industry. “That’s simply not, and never was,
Noble Herb owners work to create a unique shopping experience with high-quality products and “budtenders” available to educate customers. Courtesy photo
the case,” Hermansky observed. “With the increasing shift in perception and passing of Proposition 207, medical and adult-use sales at dispensaries have been higher than ever before and with that, more brands are coming to market. It’s an extremely dynamic time in our industry and we’re excited to be a part of it.” Following the company’s rebrand, Noble Herb will be moving to a new location on 522 E. Route 66. Although
the current location has been an outstanding place to establish and grow their business, the reality is “we’ve simply outgrown it,” Hermansky said. The new location in the old Kachina restaurant building downtown will provide ample space to expand product lines, increase parking options for customers, and improve the overall shopping experience. The building currently is undergoing a full transformation, with a projected opening date
of summer 2022. Initially, the business partners assumed that students would be a majority of their business. “But, in fact, we have an extremely diverse customer base ranging from 21 to 100 years old,” he said. “Customers visit for a wide bandwidth of reasons and we offer a wide variety of products that meet our community’s needs.” Ryan, 43, and Brandon, 41, who Continued on page 42
We are proud to announce that our Flagstaff location has moved!
WE HAVE MOVED!
525 North Switzer Canyon Drive Flagstaff, AZ 86001
Torey Botti, M.D.
John H. Flint, M.D.
Marshall Meier, M.D.
Catlea Gorman, D.P.M.
Darius Moezzi, M.D.
John F. Hall, M.D.
Amber Randall, M.D.
Ross A. Jones, D.O.
Nathan A. Swain, D.O.
(928) 773-2280 www.flagstaffboneandjoint.com
@flagstaffbusinessnews
OCTOBER 2021 // Flagstaff Business News
Supporting Renewable Energy Generation for the Next Generation
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Flagstaff Business News // OCTOBER 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com
Flagstaff Native Serving Aboard USS Iwo Jima
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By Rick Burke
ovani Rodriguez-Ruiz is serving aboard the USS Iwo Jima, a U.S. Navy Wasp class amphibious assault ship. Fireman Rodriguez-Ruiz, a 2018 Flagstaff High School graduate, is responsible for maintaining, operating and repairing various electrical equipment on board ships. Rodriguez-Ruiz joined the Navy three years ago for a better life and the opportunity to attend college. “I learned that I have a lot of potential within myself,” he said. “I was a small town boy, both scared and excited, looking to make my own path in life. Now, I have served three years and within that time, I have experi-
enced long days of work, a lot of time being underway and deployments, but it showed me what I was capable of doing and accomplishing.” Iwo Jima is the seventh Wasp-class amphibious assault ship and the second ship in the U.S. Navy to bear that name. The ship was named for the Battle of Iwo Jima of World War II. According to Navy officials, amphibious assault ships are designed to deliver U.S. Marines and their equipment where they are needed to support a variety of missions, ranging from amphibious assaults to humanitarian relief efforts. Designed to be versatile, the ship has the option of simultaneously using helicopters, Harrier jets and Landing Craft Air Cushioned, as well as
// “I learned that I have a lot of potential within myself,” he said. “I was a small town boy, both scared and excited, looking to make my own path in life. Now, I have served three years and within that time, I have experienced long days of work, a lot of time being underway and deployments, but it showed me what I was capable of doing and accomplishing.” //
conventional landing craft and assault vehicles in various combinations. “What I enjoy most about serving here is being able to meet and work alongside my comrades while making long-lasting memories,” said Rodriguez-Ruiz. Although there are many opportunities for sailors to earn recognition in their command, community and careers, Rodriguez-Ruiz is most proud of receiving the Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist insignia, also known as the ESWS pin. As a member of the U.S. Navy, Rodriguez-Ruiz, as well as other sailors, know they are a part of a service tradition providing unforgettable experiences through leadership development, world affairs and humanitarian assistance. Their efforts will have a lasting effect around the globe and for generations of sailors who will follow. “It means being able to represent my family and home,” added Rodriguez-Ruiz. “Growing up from an immigrant family and starting from nothing, I wanted to take advantage of the opportunity to be able to better myself and be able to help my family and have a better life.” FBN Rick Burke is with the Community Outreach Office of the Navy.
Jovani Rodriguez-Ruiz Courtesy Photo
FLAGSTAFF, CELEBRATE WITH US! Join the Lumberjack family’s week-long festivities. Many events are family-friendly!
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 13
SATURDAY, OCT. 16
THURSDAY, OCT. 14
Homecoming parade campus perimeter | 9 a.m.
Dedicatee Banquet Skydome – Ponderosa, tickets required | 11:30 a.m. Women’s Volleyball vs. Idaho State Rolle Activity Center | 6:30 p.m.
FRIDAY, OCT. 15
Honored Alumni Ceremony foundationnau.org/celebrate | 5 p.m. For the parade route map, continuing updates, and family-friendly events, visit nau.edu/homecoming.
Café au Louie, alumni breakfast, 1899 Bar & Grill | 8 a.m.
Homecoming tailgate Skydome parking lot | 10 a.m. Football vs. Southern Utah Skydome | 1 p.m. Women’s Volleyball vs. Weber State Rolle Activity Center | 6 p.m.
SUNDAY, OCT. 17
Women’s Soccer vs. Southern Utah Lumberjack Stadium | 1 p.m. #NAUHOMECOMING /NAUFlagstaff @NAUFlagstaff
@NAU @NAUsocial
WEAR NAU GEAR
OCTOBER 2021 // Flagstaff Business News
@flagstaffbusinessnews
Are you open to new friends, a holistic approach to health, and a more fulfilling life?
Highgate Senior Living is now open. We hope you are, too.
Book your tour today. Lunch is on us! Call: (928) 863-3902 Email: Flagstaff@HighgateSeniorLiving.com Visit: HighgateSeniorLiving.com
Assisted Living | Memory Care
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Flagstaff Business News // OCTOBER 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com
Northern Arizona Business News Vodcast About to Launch Zonie Living: Business, Adventure and Leadership Coming in November
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usiness news seekers soon will be able to watch a fresh new program designed specifically for Northern Arizona, created to inform, engage and inspire. Zonie Living: Business, Adventure and Leadership is a television show or vodcast (video podcast) that will expand on Flagstaff Business News feature stories and take viewers right to the scene, whether it’s inside a local inventor’s workshop, outside for the view on little-known trails or alongside seasoned professionals for a dose of some hard-earned wisdom and smart leadership tips. Bonnie Stevens’ Communication Station, with support from Flagstaff Business News, will be shining the spotlight on Northern Arizona’s small businesses, career opportunities and community values, including a vibrant economy, healthy lifestyles, outdoor activities, businesses with competitive salaries and lighton-the-land impact, an appreciation for quality education and lifelong learning, and legacy-minded leaders focused on the next generation.
“We have so much to work with and be excited about,” she said, “innovative entrepreneurs, committed community leaders, a business retention focus, workforce development programs, a spectacular natural environment, astro-, eco-, cultural and recreational attractions, a legacy of discovery and hunger for excellence. This all adds up to an extraordinary quality of life.” Zonie Living is being developed to create positive awareness, news attention and buzz supported and connected by Dave Pratt’s Star Worldwide Networks and an experienced, professional and creative marketing and production team. As stated in Stevens’ business plan, “Zonie Living will examine not only what forward-thinking, successful people of excellence are doing and how well they are doing it, but more importantly why and the passion and purpose behind their actions. Aren’t these the smart businesses we all want to support, work for and have in our communities? Aren’t these the quality people
we want to see on the slopes, sit next to at the symphony or wave to in our neighborhoods? Isn’t this the landscape and nightscape we want to enjoy and take care of for generations to come?” From out of the bleakness of a global pandemic, Stevens believes now is the time for positive stories to burst onto the scene and onto the screen. “Zonie Living will offer interviews about business success, meaningful innovations, medical advances, leadership strategies, mentoring opportunities, interesting characters, inspirational people, extraordinary places and high-eleva-
Zombie
Blood Drive Thursday October 28th
tion fun,” she said. “This is a fantastic opportunity for all of us to get involved in a program that’s pro-business, pro-excellence, pro-leadership and pro-healthy living promoting our mountain town’s positive, vivacious aspects for achieving the life many dream of,” said FBN Owner/Publisher Troy Bix. Along with the vodcast comes a new book from Stevens, “Life Lessons from a Zonie Girl: How to Stay Sunny, Grounded and Resilient.” Also, Stevens is teaming up with pioneering Arizona television news anchorwoman Mary Jo West to offer the CCC2NAU Mary Jo West Excel-
lence in Communication Scholarship. “The scholarship award, slated for fall 2022, certainly will help a student financially, but perhaps the greatest value is the mentorship opportunity that comes with it,” said Stevens, as she and West will schedule time each semester for coaching and guidance. “The vodcast, the book and the scholarship are all things I wish I would have had access to in the past, and that is my hope moving forward, that we can all learn from others, gain encouragement, draw inspiration and recognize what a wonderful environment we have all around us. Apollo 12 moon-walking astronaut Alan Bean once said to me, ‘We live in the Garden of Eden,’ and I’ve never forgotten it. To me, he was saying we have beauty and abundance and everything we need for a wonderful life. And that’s what we’ll be focusing on.” FBN Zonie Living: Business, Adventure and Leadership goes live Nov. 5. Go to https://starworldwidenetworks.com/ shows/bonnie-stevens.
Zombie
Hand Drop Friday October 29th
Doubletree Inn 9-5 pm
Alleyway of Old Town Shops 5:30 pm
Sign up @ www.bloodhero.com or www.donors.vitalant.org
Buy your Zombie Hands and win big @ www.aokflag.org
AokFlag is a local non-profit that supports our community with acts of kindness. Especially those that have been impacted by suicide. We show appreciation to First Responders (Police/Sheriff/ Firefighters/Nurses, 200 Homebound Seniors that have been identified as the loneliest and frailest, Veterinarians and Pets left behind after a suicide. Please follow us on our website:
www.aokflag.org
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OCTOBER 2021 // Flagstaff Business News
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Flagstaff Business News // OCTOBER 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com
Business Woman FBN
Called to the Stage she acknowledged her husband, Al, and thanked her team at PCA. Besides acting, Allen’s career has included producing, directing and arts leadership. She received her education at Arizona State University under the direction of Marshall W. Mason and By Bonnie Stevens, FBN at the New Actors Workshop in New York. She served as artistic director tage actress Robyn Allen has of Theater Works in Peoria and was spent more than 30 years in the entertainment industry, but says a founding member of the acclaimed Algonquin Theater Co., in Phoenix. she had to overcome her shyness to She has received 38 ariZoni nomiperform. nations and 14 awards for her work in “I was always very shy,” she said, theater, including best director, best “but if I had written a poem, I would actress, best supporting actress and just stand up and recite it in front of best guest artist. In addition, she has my relatives. I think that’s how they tricked me into auditioning for plays in been featured in The Arizona Republic’s Who’s Who of Women in Theater. school.” One of her favorite productions was Soon she found her own trick, which was to become completely immersed in “Sweeney Todd,” for which she won an ariZoni Award for directing. Allen says the character and stay focused. her most fun experience was particiAllen shared her story with more than 100 people at the 2021 Prescott-ar- pating in a comedy horror film called ea ATHENA Awards, Sunday, Sept. 19, “‘Netherbeast Incorporated’ about an undead telephone company staffed by at Goods from the Garden, where she was honored with the leadership award, flesh-eating, vampire-like employees. I worked with a lot of great comics in sponsored by Quad Cities Business that film like Darrell Hammond, Dave News and Prescott Woman Magazine. “I was shocked and so honored to be Foley and Steve Burns. It was shot in a finalists alongside those women,” she Arizona.” Most recently, under Allen’s said. “I really wanted to take a moment and learn who they were and what their leadership, Suze’s Prescott Center for journeys were that got us to this place.” the Arts received a nomination for the 2020 Governor’s Arts Awards, the 2020 Allen, the executive director of Suze’s Prescott Center for the Arts (PCA) Prescott Chamber Business Excellence in Arts and Culture Award and the since 2016, is adamant that success 2020 Twink Lynch Organizational doesn’t happen on our own. “It takes Achievement Award, on the national an enormous amount of support. We level. Noted in the Twink Lynch achave hundreds of volunteers [at PCA]. I have an amazing staff and have always knowledgment was the organization’s ability to redirect resources to create had a great team around me, supportPCA Serves, which addresses the needs ing and surrounding me,” she said as
of the Month
Actress Robyn Allen is named Prescott-area ATHENA
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Saying success doesn’t happen without the help of others, Robyn Allen thanked her husband, Al, for his support as well as the team from Suze’s Prescott Center for the Arts. PCA Board President Christine Scott joined her at the ATHENA Awards. Photo courtesy of Blushing Cactus Photography
“Leadership provides an opportunity to share more opportunities with others,” says Robyn Allen, executive director of Suze’s Prescott Center for the Arts. “I grow every day as a human being by having this vehicle for improving my listening skills and meeting challenges.” Photo courtesy of Blushing Cactus Photography
of the center’s mostly elderly patron population and served the broader community during the pandemic. At the same time, the center had engaged in a capital campaign to build a new studio theater, and expand rehearsal and classroom space to better serve the community’s youth and create an additional art gallery.However, Allen says the campaign, “Setting the Stage,” was put on hold while the group focused on helping the community maneuver through the pandemic.
Nonetheless, an anonymous donor came through, enabling the center to move forward with its expansion plans. As a result, PCA was able to break ground in July. Allen was born and raised in Phoenix. Her husband grew up in Mayer. While visiting his family, she was introduced to Prescott and had always kept the idea of living there one day in her mind. The two made the move from Phoenix to Prescott in 2015. “Literally six weeks after I got here, the one job I
// “I love everything about community theater, especially watching the growth of individuals and working with our youth,” she said. “The arts enhance a community. There really is something for everyone. You don’t have to be a performer, you can be active in other departments. We have opportunities for our youth to learn theater management and administrative skills. //
do opened up at Prescott Center for the Arts. It fit like a glove.” She planned to work as the interim director until they filled the position through a national search. “I fell in love with the community, the gallery, the center and everything about it.” She decided she should apply for the job and the center agreed. “It’s just been go, go, go since then,” she said. “I love everything about community theater, especially watching the growth of individuals and working with our youth,” she said. “The arts enhance a community. There really is something for everyone. You don’t have to be a performer, you can be active in other departments. We have opportunities for our youth to learn theater management and administrative skills. We need designers in lights and costume and enjoy teaching these skills to our volunteers. Community theater is a great place to get your feet wet. When I first started directing, I knew I’d have to learn how to do it all and you learn it quickly.” Allen has been married for 34 years. She and her husband have two daughters and a son. FBN
OCTOBER 2021 // Flagstaff Business News
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Flagstaff Business News // OCTOBER 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com
FBN Author Unveils Spiritual, Walking Book Stacey Wittig’s fifth guidebook launched at American Pilgrims on Camino Event By Bonnie Stevens, FBN
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lagstaff Business News reporter Stacey Wittig has launched her fifth book at a gathering of American Pilgrims on Camino at Notre Dame, Indiana. When airlines canceled Wittig’s flight and subsequent pilgrimage walk across France because of COVID-19 last September, the author decided to walk a pilgrim path in the United States instead. When she reached out to Wisconsin Way organizers, a pilgrimage loosely
based on the Camino de Santiago in Spain, she learned there was no guidebook to help find the way. “Since no guide or instructions existed for my trek, I decided to write a guidebook for others who weren’t quite ready to go to Europe to walk pilgrimages this year,” said Wittig, author of three Camino guidebooks. More than 20,000 U.S. passport holders walked the Camino de Santiago in 2019. That number has declined drastically because of the pandemic. Wittig teamed up with Father
// Wittig teamed up with Father Andrew Kurz, the founder of the Wisconsin Way, and others who have walked the 154-mile stretch from outside Green Bay to Holy Hill near Milwaukee. With their guidance, she hiked the pilgrimage solo last October. //
Andrew Kurz, the founder of the Wisconsin Way, and others who have walked the 154-mile stretch from outside Green Bay to Holy Hill near Milwaukee. With their guidance, she hiked the pilgrimage solo last October. The pilgrim journey connects holy hotspots that include national shrines, roadside chapels and monasteries. Wittig stayed with families, in a monastery and at Airbnbs during the 11-day journey. “The Wisconsin Way is so similar to the European pilgrimages I’ve walked: dramatic and changing scenery; amazing local cheese, wine and beer; spiritual hotspots along the way and time to contemplate. It’s perfect for those who are not ready to travel to Europe this year,” said Wittig. Once back in Northern Arizona, she began researching and writing the guidebook. Before the book went to the printer, she walked the Wisconsin Way again last May. Mike Russell of MikeRDzign designed the bookcover and Lindsay Winthers created full-color maps for the 135page book. “When I walked my first long-distance pilgrimage, I was working 70 hours per week for a Fortune 500 company in Flagstaff,” said Wittig. “I was a successful salesperson but felt
that there had to be more to life than what we Americans deem ‘success.’ It was challenging to take time off from my busy life to get away and take a soulful inner journey, but I did it.” While walking in Spain, a French woman who told her, “Stacey, the Camino is like a washing machine for the brain.” And, she agrees. “Walking long distances gives you time to reflect on your life. Stressing your physical body with walking day after day naturally rouses repressed emotions. Getting out of your comfort zone in a foreign place forces you to trust your intuition and spiritual side. Pilgrimage offers many gifts, including time to reconnect with your higher power.” Wittig says her first pilgrimage in 2005 was life-changing, giving her time to reevaluate her life and look for what she could change in herself. “Within two years, I had shed the golden handcuffs and launched my second career doing something I loved: writing.” The author has embarked on more than 10 long-distance pilgrimages since her first one. “Each one brings me a bit closer to the better me,” she said. “I’ve learned mindfulness, simplicity and the appreciation of
the little things that happen each day, every hour.” The book, “Spiritual and Walking Guide: The Wisconsin Way,” is available on Amazon at https://bit.ly/ WiWayGuide. FBN For more information, please visit unstoppablestaceytravel.com/the-wisconsin-way-pilgrimage-beginners-guide.
OCTOBER 2021 // Flagstaff Business News
@flagstaffbusinessnews
Putting Health First Health First Foundation is proud to support these organizations with $900,000 in grants this year. Their innovative programs demonstrate that together we can build more vibrant communities by making health a priority.
Manzanita Outreach Providing children access to nutritious food
Flagstaff Shelter Services
Jerry Ambrose Veterans Council Providing behavioral health care to military veterans
Connecting health care and housing
Northern Arizona University
Arizona’s Children Association
Establishing a patientactor program to teach case evaluation and care
Expanding mental health care for children
Polara Health
Steps to Recovery Homes
Expanding metrics-driven, patient-centered health and wellness care
Establishing an intensive outpatient addiction recovery program
Creek Valley Health Clinic
NACASA at North Country HealthCare
Providing an underserved community with integrated health care
Providing care and services to victims of sexual assault
Join us in putting health first. Learn more at healthfirstforall.org. Health First Foundation – Northern Arizona (EIN 81-3137336) is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity dedicated to advancing health and well-being.
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Flagstaff Business News // OCTOBER 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com
Keeping Cars Running Local automotive expert stresses attention to car care
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By Ray Newton, FBN
urging prices for new and used cars and diminished supplies of critical parts caused by the global microchip shortage have caused drivers to rethink auto maintenance and purchases. Joshua “J.D.” Davis, manager of one of Prescott’s largest full-service maintenance shops, has firm ideas about how vehicle owners need to keep their cars running at minimum expense and maximum efficiency. The 42-year-old Prescott native has been involved and educated in auto maintenance and repairs since he was able to turn a wrench. When his family moved to Phoenix, he graduated from East Valley High School and later attended Mesa Community College. He owned his own vehicle shop for several years in Phoenix and returned to Prescott a few years ago. He has been with Network Automotive Service Center, 233 Grove Ave., for almost six years. For five, he’s been manager of one of the area’s largest full-service vehicle repair shops.
“The days of the shade-tree mechanic and weekend engine repair are over,” he said. “Contemporary vehicles are too complex. Most require sophisticated diagnostic equipment except for the simplest of do-it-yourself chores like changing windshield wipers.” He notes that the pandemic has changed the way people are traveling. “Not so much commercially, but much more in personal vehicles. That’s why we’ve seen the need for maintenance increase – more vehicle use.” During his years as manager of the Prescott Network shop, Davis has seen revenue increase from $26,000 a month in 2016 to more than $85,000 a month this year. The Prescott shop is one of six owned by Network. The other five locations are in the Phoenix area. “I think the most important thing a car owner needs to consider nowadays is regular and systematic complete maintenance. To do that, owners need to have a good, reliable and honest dealership or repair shop. Let’s face it – cars are too expensive anymore to ignore having them worked on,” Davis said. Davis says one of the most difficult aspects of making a decision about
Discussing pending truck replacement parts are Network Manager J.D. Davis and co-workers Brand Habit and Keith Arroyo.
Photo
by Ray Newton
where to go is knowing what maintenance or repairs are needed. “I admit I have a bias about this, but I think a full-service repair center is the best choice. They have the necessary equipment and trained employees who can
run diagnostics to identify what root problems are before they make service suggestions. There’s a big difference between basic maintenance based on manufacturer’s recommendations as opposed to specialized repair work
that might be required for an engine or transmission or computer-related issues.” Davis offers these tips: N Ask your friends where they go, Continued on page 38
OCTOBER 2021 // Flagstaff Business News
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// BUSINESS CENTS // BY BONNIE STEVENS
Be Part of Someone’s Best Day
I
met 7-year-old Maggie on the warm sands of Doheny State Beach in California’s Orange County. She arrived with her lovely family and upon our introduction, she hid her face behind her mom for a very long time. This tiny, beautiful, shy and frightened little girl did not look happy to be there. Despite a long struggle of pleading from her family and big warm smiles from me, she was not having any part of this Best Day Foundation playdate at the beach. Her amazingly encouraging big brother, Sam, who was probably 12 at the time, was the one who was finally able to convince her that everything would be all right and that she was going to have a very fun day. The Best Day Foundation is one of
my most favorite charities. Through the volunteer efforts of surfers and others, this organization enables children and young adults with special needs to build confidence and self-esteem through adventure activities, like surfing, that stretch their mental, emotional and physical limits. For Maggie, I was beginning to fear that this day had the potential of stretching her limits to the breaking point, whether or not she ever actually engaged. Upon her brother’s optimistic urging, her family backed away and sweet Maggie ever-so-tentatively looked up at me and put her little hand gently in mine and we were off to join the enthusiastic, mostly retired, surfers who were totally stoked to catch a wave with these
kids of all abilities. If holding my hand was a big deal for Maggie, being transferred over to a big surfer dude had to be off-the-charts scary. But she bravely put her trust and her safety once again in the hands of another smiling stranger. Together, we got used to the water and acquainted with the surfboard and splashed with the waves. And, when the surfer felt it was time to give it a go, Maggie looked back at me and I gave her the biggest, most confident thumbs up and the widest, most encouraging smile and a nod that communicated: This is going to be the most fun you have ever had in your whole life – you got this! As I watched her sit on the board and allow the surfer to push them
// The surfer held her up high out of the water and congratulated her repeatedly for her HUGE accomplishment. And everybody around us cheered. Maggie blinked her long, water-soaked eyelashes a few times and her mouth dropped open when she realized the cheering that was out-roaring the ocean was for her. It’s like she had crossed over some rite of passage and had survived the ritual. //
through the breakers, I thought, “This is a miracle that we got her this far.” And then, he was paddling hard toward shore. Maggie was smiling. She was having a blast. Her long golden curls were dancing in the breeze. Her eyes were huge as she felt the lift of the wave. And in that moment, I’m pretty sure I could hear angels sing as the two of them were riding along in harmony with the unstoppable force of the ocean. Surfers and kids were having this same kind of wild playful experience up and down the shore. I might have been holding my breath for Maggie because I could now feel myself exhale. And that’s when the board tipped. It was a wipeout. Maggie was dunked into the churning white-water breakers. “Nooooo!!!!!” I thought, with my hands on my forehead. “This cannot be happening.” The capable surfer fished her out and she looked horrified. In the meantime, Sam came whipping out of nowhere, racing to her side and yelling back at me, “It’s ok, you did a good job!” The surfer held her up high out of the water and congratulated her repeatedly for her HUGE accomplishment.
And everybody around us cheered. Maggie blinked her long, water-soaked eyelashes a few times and her mouth dropped open when she realized the cheering that was out-roaring the ocean was for her. It’s like she had crossed over some rite of passage and had survived the ritual. All at once, the exhilaration she experienced, the pride she felt and the growth she had undergone were palpable. People were cheering and shouting her name. I don’t know if she’d ever had that kind of moment before. But on that sunny day in Southern California, she was a surfing rock star! And that’s why I love the Best Day Foundation. The next summer, I came back with my youngest son, Logan, and my neighbor, Wendylynn. We all were assigned to our young buddies and there it was, that rush of joy all over again, only tripled because there were three of us and three new friends. We talked about our Best Day experience making somebody else’s best day all the way home on the long drive across California and back to Arizona. There are many reasons why people Continued on page 39
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Flagstaff Business News // OCTOBER 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com
Flagstaff Earns Two Governor’s Tourism Awards By Meg Roederer
DISCOVER FLAGSTAFF’S PLEDGE FOR THE WILD PROGRAM HAS WON AN ARIZONA GOVERNOR’S TOURISM AWARD FOR BEST TOURISM PARTNERSHIP.
This award recognized the cooperative partnerships between Discover Flagstaff and multiple community partners to benefit the non-profit Flagstaff Trails Initiative to attract visitors to Arizona. Discover Flagstaff calls awareness to trails less traveled and to responsibly play, pledge and protect with PLEDGE FOR THE WILD at discoverflagstaff/pledge-wild.com. This is an innovative eco-conscious program supporting responsible tourism in wild places proactively sharing outdoor tips and principles with a local online donation or text-to-donate (WILD4FLAG or 44321) that benefits the Flagstaff Trails Initiative.
CANYON DIABLO SPIRITS AND DISTILLERY WINS GOVERNOR’S TOURISM AWARD FOR SPIRIT OF SERVICE CRISIS RESPONSE
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This award honored Canyon Diablo for their above-and-beyond response to the global health crisis with the implementation of safety standards. Canyon Diablo Distillery is Arizona’s first legal distillery and has earned many accolades for their bottled goodness, including medaling in the World and International Spirits competitions. Owners and partners Randy Ahern, Joe Pendergast and Dana Kanzler noticed the challenges associated with the declining availability of hand sanitizer – such an essential product during an unprecedented time of a global pandemic. Canyon Diablo pivoted its operations quickly to produce hand sanitizer for the Tuba City Regional Health Care Corporation in an effort to stop the rapid spread of COVID-19 in one of the nation’s hardest hit areas. The Tuba City Regional Health Care Corporation had only six bottles of hand sanitizer remaining when a shipment arrived – thanks to the production and partnership with Canyon Diablo Distillery. FBN
Watch Your Business News In November
Bonnie Stevens' Communication Station is delivering a refreshing, engaging and inspirational vodcast (video podcast) that features Northern Arizona businesses, outdoor adventure and leadership tips twice a month. Zonie Living, sponsored by Flagstaff Business News, starts Nov. 5. Go to https://starworldwidenetworks.com/shows/bonnie-stevens
OCTOBER 2021 // Flagstaff Business News
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// COMMUNITY PROFILE // BY V. RONNIE TIERNEY, FBN
Bashas’ Employee Nears Half a Century with the Grocer Loyal customers count on getting a smile from Wayne Jones
F
or Bashas’ Supermarket Store Director Wayne Jones, “treating people the way they want to be treated” can create a long and rewarding career. Jones has been in the grocery business for 47 years. “That’s my platinum rule and whatever I do, I do to the best of my ability.” Moving to Flagstaff in December 1970, Jones was born in inner city Los Angeles and started his career in the grocery business at A.J. Bayless on North Humphreys in 1973. “My family would come here every year for the July 4th Native American Pow Wow. I was 1 year old the first time we visited, so a lot of people think I was born here.” Jones began as a box boy. His position progressed to courtesy clerk/ cashier, then to assistant grocery man-
ager. Over the years, he has worked at the Woodlands Village Bashas’ Supermarket as well. Jones also attended Northern Arizona University, working toward a degree in electrical engineering with an emphasis in design technology. He dabbled in construction and converted his home into a four-plex with two efficiency apartments. “My plans were to secure income for my mom, who was a real estate agent. When everything was completed, my mom passed away.” Co-workers asked if he would continue in the grocery business. “I told them that I would be a manager someday. They laughed at me.” “I remember shopping with my mom at A.J. Bayless in the late 1970s, we lived nearby and we would see Wayne often. He had a big afro at the time,” said Bashas’ Supermarkets Training Specialist for Northern Arizona Carolanne Kerdraon. “Later on, I worked as his bookkeeper and
Wayne Jones strives to always give his best to Bashas’ and customers. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography
Continued on page 42
Meet Your Local Banking Experts: Tony Hannigan Vice President, Commercial Banking thannigan@alliancebankofarizona.com (928) 214-3422 Sherra Lyon Vice President, Commercial Banking slyon@alliancebankofarizona.com (928) 214-3410
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Flagstaff Business News // OCTOBER 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com
Discussing Two Herpes Viruses
T
By Hedda Fay
here are those who do not believe herpes viruses are still around. Yes! Herpes is around and just as contagious today as it ever was. HSVI & HSVII: The two viruses are not as simplistic as their names suggests. There is a lot of misinformation out there about these two viruses, so let’s explore the facts. All strains of herpes are extremely contagious: saliva, sores and skin-toskin contact is how they are typically spread. These viruses are known
to “shed,” releasing small, trace particles of themselves, even when the host is asymptomatic. This strain can lay dormant for years before presenting any symptoms. There is currently no cure for either HSVI or HSVII, they are treatable with antiviral medications. HSVI – Oral Herpes, HSVII – Genital Herpes.
HERPES SIMPLEX I
Oral herpes is very contagious. Most people who have this form of herpes obtained it as a child from being kissed by relatives. The cold sores people get about their lips and face
// All strains of herpes are extremely contagious: saliva, sores and skin-to-skin contact is how they are typically spread. These viruses are known to “shed,” releasing small, trace particles of themselves, even when the host is asymptomatic. This strain can lay dormant for years before presenting any symptoms. //
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are beyond their control, but when they do have them, they should be cautious to not kiss anyone. Do you think there is a potential to find oral herpes in a person’s genital region? Yes, we absolutely find HSVI in the genital area of others, even though we typically find HSVII there. Why would you think we find HSVI where HSVII is normally found? Oral sex, which means oral engagement between a person’s mouth and another person’s genitals.
HERPES SIMPLEX II
Genital herpes is also very contagious. This form of herpes generally affects the genital area. Two-thirds of cases of genital herpes are asymptomatic. Because much of the genitals are still uncovered with condom use, genital herpes can still be contracted with condom use during an outbreak. During an outbreak, proper condom use reduces risk by up to 30%. It is always important to know your status and be engaged with care should you need it. The CDC reports that more than one out of every six people aged 14 to 49 have genital herpes. It is that common. The herpes virus can also be shed from skin without a visible sore.
FIRST OUTBREAK
they do treat people for HSVII with or without insurance. N Avoid engaging in sex, vaginal, anal or oral, when your partner has symptoms or feels like a flareup is occurring. N Use condoms and lubricant appropriately to further reduce your risk when having sex. N Use dental dams for oral sex . N Use female condoms for vaginal and receptive anal sex. N Remember to make a full panel STD test and HIV test a part of your annual healthcare examination. Please feel free to send your sexual health questions to me at fay.h@northlandcares.org. I look forward to hearing from you soon! FBN
LOWERING YOUR RISK
Hedda Fay is the community outreach and program developer for Northland Cares. In a former life, she worked in law enforcement and public mental health. Her passion today is educating people about their sexual health and prevention services to the community. Northland Cares is located at 3112 Clearwater Drive, Ste. A, in Prescott. For more information, call 928-776-4612.
The first things to look for during the first outbreak of herpes are fever, swollen lymph nodes, chills, muscle aches and headache. Outbreaks can have sores, pain in in the genital area, mouth or anus, shooting pain in legs or buttocks, which occurs hours or days before a herpetic lesion eruption. Each year there are a reported two million HSVI diagnosis and three million HSVII diagnosis. Unfortunately, there can be unnecessary shame, stigma and embarrassment with a herpes diagnosis, but since this is so communicable, it is vitally important people get tested if they believe they have been exposed or have had unprotected or risky sex. If you are in a relationship with someone who has genital herpes, there are ways of lowering your risk: N Talk with your partner, find out if they take antiviral medications. Intimacy is more than physical interactions; it can include personal health information. If your partner does not have access, refer them to the county health clinic where
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OCTOBER 2021 // Flagstaff Business News
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Flagstaff Business News // OCTOBER 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com
Thunder Over Flagstaff Makes Some Noise at the Airport By V. Ronnie Tierney, FBN
T
he Flagstaff Airport was bustling on the ground and abuzz in the air during the Thunder Over Flagstaff Open House and Car Display on Aug. 28. The show, which offered free flights to children ages 7 to 17, benefited the Experimental Aircraft Association Young Eagles Program. “The event captured an audience of about 5,000,” said Young Eagles Program Air Operations Coordinator Steve Allen. “About 350 kids took airplane rides. We had a great turnout.” Along with a rebuilt Vietnam Helicopter, there were military and civilian airplanes. The Air Force also brought in a KC 135 refueling tanker (the same as a Boeing 767) and a British WWII bomber. At various times during the day, airplanes flew over the crowd and helicopter rides were offered to paying attendees. On the ground, the Route 66 Car Club delivered a lineup of more than 200 classic and antique cars. Helping with security and perimeter control were the Arizona Rangers and Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC). “We are a law enforcement auxiliary that often assists with community events to ensure all
participants and attendees are safe and have a memorable experience, “ said Stan Herrera with the Arizona Rangers Granite Mountain Company. “This is one way we help out the community,” said JROTC Battalion Commander Jaimie Shroufe. “We had a great day of weather and it went extremely well,” said Wiseman Aviation Owner and President Orville Wiseman. “There wasn’t a single problem and it was good to get everyone out again. It was really nice.” FBN
Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography
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OCTOBER 2021 // Flagstaff Business News
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Accessorize Your Hearing
T
By Jeff Lane, Au.D.
echnology is constantly evolving, often at a rapid pace, with the goal of improving and simplifying the experience for the user. If you buy a new phone, you get a pair of wireless earbuds. Hearing aids are similar. While modern hearing aids can significantly improve a wearer’s quality of life, some situations could still be improved with the addition of an accessory – situations such as listening to someone behind you while hiking or catching all the information at a meeting. Fortunately, there is a wide range of accessories compatible with current hearing aid models.
REMOTE MICROPHONES
Remote microphones are a wonder-
ful solution for improving communication between individuals. Let’s say that a hearing aid user is going on a tour. The tour guide will likely be at a distance from the user, or often turned away. Obviously, this makes hearing the tour guide much more difficult for the person with hearing loss. Remote microphones eliminate this frustration by delivering the speaker’s voice directly to the hearing aids. The talker can be far away (typically 60 to 80 feet) or even turned away, and the user will still hear them perfectly clear. Plus, it is all done wirelessly! And the microphones are small, meaning they are convenient to wear. Also, they are fairly versatile. They can be used in the car, while hiking, in a restaurant, or at home with the two individuals in different
// Remote microphones eliminate this frustration by delivering the speaker’s voice directly to the hearing aids. The talker can be far away (typically 60 to 80 feet) or even turned away, and the user will still hear them perfectly clear. //
rooms. They’re also great for loved ones with very soft voices. Typically, remote microphones are designed for listening to a single talker, meaning they are not ideal for group situations. However, this also means that remote microphones are very affordable.
ROGER TECHNOLOGY
Before proceeding, it should be noted that Roger technology is specific to Phonak hearing aids. However, it is unique and beneficial enough that I felt it warranted inclusion. Roger technology is similar to a remote microphone, but far more advanced. First, it can be used in virtually any situation. It can be worn by an individual, or it can be placed on a table to hear multiple talkers. When listening to multiple talkers, it can either be automatic or manual. When automatic, it will adjust its directionality to amplify whoever is currently speaking. Or, the user can select which directions it wants the device to focus upon. (If you only want to hear in front and to the left, you can designate that and the device will ignore everything else.) Another advantage is that Roger technology can actively cancel out background noise and increase the
volume of the desired signal. Thus, you would have a much more favorable signal-to-noise ratio than with a regular remote microphone. Studies actually show that individuals with hearing loss can hear better than those with normal hearing in noisy situations when wearing hearing aids and Roger. While it does cost more, it is a wonderful solution for those who struggle to hear in noise.
TELEVISION STREAMERS
One of the first things patients tell me during a hearing test is that they have to blast the TV in order to understand what is being said. Having properly fitting hearing aids will automatically help. But, TV streamers can make it sound even better! Again, because the signal is being beamed straight to the aids, it eliminates the need for the sound to travel over distance and through other aural clutter. Another nice feature is that the actual TV volume isn’t affected, so other people can still hear the TV at a volume that is comfortable for them. Unfortunately, TV streamers can’t improve the sound mixing of a program.
REMOTE CONTROLS
All hearing aids have buttons that allow you to adjust programs. However, this may not be the best option for some wearers. Those who have arthritis or neuropathy may not be able to press the button. A person with memory loss may not be able to remember where the button is or its purpose. In these situations, a remote control can be very handy. It is easy to handle and very clear on its operation. For those who want to be more discreet, there are applications for the phone that can act as a remote control as well. To be clear, accessories are not required to use hearing aids. But for those who need or want a bit more assistance, they are worthwhile. As always, let your hearing care professional be your guide. 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.
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Flagstaff Business News // OCTOBER 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com
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Enjoying Flagstaff’s Fabulous Foodie Scene By Meg Roederer
Now, let’s continue to tempt the taste buds and experience a culinary journey with creative cocktails or award-winning craft beer. Entrees raving an amazing culinary experience? at Tinderbox Kitchen are honed to perfection Flagstaff’s foodie scene is a celebration of by an expert staff delivering fine dining paired flavors and fun! Enjoy a taste of Flagstaff with just the right wine. Try Annex Cocktail dining around town with a selection of more Lounge for elevated bar fare and a passion for than 200 restaurants offering delicious menus exquisite cocktails such as the Seven Wonders, featuring local ingredients and international Bicycle Thief or the La Vie en Rose. Perhaps a flavors. Flagstaff is a “critic’s choice” according to Phoenix Magazine, which recognized Flagstaff shift in direction leads to a bright and casual as a favorite Arizona food town, and the Arizona locale showcasing artful seasonal menus at Shift Kitchen and Bar. And, did you know, Flagstaff Restaurant Association presented Mother Road is designated as Arizona’s leading craft beer city? Brewing Company with a “Foodist Award” as a Take a trek on the Flagstaff Brewery Trail and be top Arizona brewery. sure to order a Conserve and Protect Golden Ale Thinking about your foodie experience will at Mother Road Brewing Company to support have you smiling and inspire the opportunity critical conservation work at the Arizona Game to recreate the chef crafted recipes at home. The and Fish Department. Download the Flagstaff “wipe the smile on your face” page at discoverBrewery Trail passport at craftbeerflg.com then flagstaff.com shares more than 10 recipes from Flagstaff’s top chefs. Featured restaurants include complete the journey to receive a free commemthe following: Brix Restaurant and Wine Bar, Di- orative pint glass at the Flagstaff Visitor Center (1 East Route 66.) ablo Burger, Fat Olives Wood Fired Pizzeria and Please stay, play, distance and mask responsiItalian Kitchen, Josephine’s Modern American Bistro, MartAnne’s Breakfast Palace, Sakura Sushi bly. discoverflagstaff.com. FBN and Teppanyaki, Silver Pine Restaurant and Bar, Satchmo’s Cajun and Barbecue, The Toasted Owl Meg Roederer is Discover Flagstaff’s communication Café, and Tourist Home All Day Café. specialist.
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Ed Gussio Partner Office (928) 526-5691 Mobile (928) 853-1706 Fax (928) 527-8011 egussio@crestins.com
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OCTOBER 2021 // Flagstaff Business News
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Stress, Fear and Impacts on Immunity
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By Amber Belt, ND
aise your hand if you’ve been stressed over the past 18 months! I’m guessing more than 90% of people reading this have had significant stress over the course of 2020 and 2021. Between the pandemic, elections and personal stress, I am seeing the multitude of ways that stress is impacting my patients and the levels of both stress and fear have a negative impact on health. The good thing about stress is that it can absolutely be a catalyst that sparks positive change. The bad news is that I rarely see stress creating change. What I usually see is chronic stress being worn as a red badge of courage to demonstrate the ability to grind and stay perpetually busy. And, sometimes stress is also a convenient excuse to not prioritize yourself and take care of other aspects of your health. Today, I’m going to talk about stress and fear and how they impact a person’s immune health. I also want to offer some tools that you can use to modulate your own stress levels. When we’re talking about stress and the immune system, there’s a distinction between acute stress and chronic stress. Acute stress, such as the stress before taking an exam, can actually upregulate certain areas of immune function. Where we begin to run into trouble with immune health is when we deal with chronic stress. Chronic stress, feeling overwhelmed and pressured for a prolonged period of time, has different impacts on the immune system. Particularly during the course of a pandemic, immune health is crucial and chronic stress can suppress immunity across the board. The research regarding the impact of stress on the immune system is still developing, but current research demonstrates the link between stress and immunosuppression. Fear often accompanies stress. And, not surprisingly, chronic fear has similar impacts on the immune system that stress does. However, fear has another surprising impact. It causes us to catastrophize and blow events out of proportion, as well as negatively impact our decision-making processes. I feel certain that this is part of what leads people to make poor health decisions. Now that we know stress and fear are detrimental to immune health, what do we do about it? We’re always going to have events in our lives that cause stress and fear, so the best bet is to focus on our response to that input. There are five strategies that I use to help my patients manage their stress, as well as manage my own stress. 1.
2.
Turn off the news. I find that many of my patients’ stress is made worse by endless scrolling through or watching the news, and I regularly recommend media breaks. Often, there isn’t new news to report so the news is the actually the same information reframed in a way to keep us engaged, and some media may intentionally push the buttons of stress and fear in order to maintain an audience. Get outside. Connection with nature is grounding and brings
us to a truer reality than we can possibly get through a screen. Personally, nature brings me to a place where I am reminded of what is truly important in my life. There are many studies that show time in nature relieves not just psychological stress, but physical stress as well. 3. Exercise is a great stress outlet for me and the same is true for many of us. Movement, particularly intense movement, can get me out of my head and into my body. That’s a win for me! Along with modulating stress, exercise stabilizes mood, can act as an anti-inflammatory, and it reduces symptoms and mortality (death) when a person is dealing with a viral illness. 4. Meditation and breathing. I’ve become a regular meditator over the past several months and I use different breathing strategies to calm my nervous system. Meditating for five to 10 minutes is easy to incorporate into my day and a technique such as box breathing is easy to implement. These strategies teach me to calm and clear my head in moments of stress and give me the space that I need between hearing something stressful and then reacting to that stressor. Creating that space is crucial for a healthy stress response. 5. Supplements. Before I talk about supplements, I want to stress that you absolutely cannot out-supplement or out-medicate poor health habits. This means that if you aren’t working on numbers 1-4 on this list, supplements and medications aren’t going to work as well. I do have a few interventions that I use, including glycine, l-theanine and a tincture of skullcap/oats. These are great to have on hand if I need them and I’m grateful that they are there when I need them. I will often recommend that patients use herbs and nutrients such as ashwaganda, phosphatidyl serine, lavender, Vitamin C, B Vitamins, GABA and others. I don’t have a standard supplement prescription because my patients, as individuals, have different needs. Of course, there are many other strategies that can be used to modulate a person’s stress. As a naturopathic physician, I know that medicine should never be cookie cutter because every individual’s needs are unique. The same goes for stress management strategies. If the strategies I’ve written about today don’t work for you, keep looking for a better fit. Your stress-relieving solution is out there! FBN
Amber Belt, N.D. is a naturopathic physician with sharp regenerative injection skills, a roller derby enthusiast, a business owner, an animal lover and a Flagstaff devotee. She has been performing regenerative injections for 12 years and can be contacted via aspenmedcenter.com or at 928-213-5828.
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Flagstaff Business News // OCTOBER 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com
Healing Powers of the Herd Non-profit uses horse wisdom to help heal heroes
herd instincts are strong and well developed. Although it takes patience and time for horses to begin to trust humans who are outside the herd, the two species do have a few things in common. By Betsey Bruner, FBN “Horses are prey animals and humans are predators,” Balowski said. point often proven by history: The horse has a lot to teach the “It is unnatural for a prey animal to allow a predatory animal to create human. connection and takes trust. Horses Contact between the two became closer when man started domesticat- gather for safety and protection in herds – their societal construct. ing the horse around 4000 BC, and the relationship has evolved over time Humans also gather for safety and protection in ‘herds,’ such as in the to inexorably link the two species. military – their platoon, compaToday, that link is being used ny and battalion. They have battle effectively to bring the lessons of the buddies, and so do horses. They have horse herd into the healing process for veterans and first responders who each other’s backs. When a military person detaches from their ‘military are struggling with trauma resulting herd,’ they are often left vulnerable. from their service. Much like a wild horse that finds A non-profit staged out of the itself without a herd, alone, isolated Prescott area, Heroes & Horses, is using a natural approach orchestrated and vulnerable.” Balowski said her interest in in outdoor settings to improve the mental health of these modern heroes equine therapy developed from her background in corporate America through equine therapy. as a staff development and human “In a nutshell, horses move in resources professional. “I am a herds, and this is a metaphor for certified recovery life coach and have veterans who have served with other facilitated more than 500 psycho veterans,” explained Ann Balowski, educational groups in treatment who founded Heroes & Horses in settings,” said Balowski, who is a March of 2016. “The horse represents a large pres- resident of Wickenburg and Paulden. “My equine background comes from ence that can be trusted to be honest two very spoiled rescue mares that with humans, and they demand have been in my life for the last 16 honesty in return,” she continued. “They do not judge and do not expect years. I also hold four certification trainings through the OkCorral Series anything other than honesty. Under training program.” the open sky and natural elements, The horses used in Heroes & there is refuge from the stresses Horses programs are not owned by of daily life and the comfort of an the non-profit but are contracted equine partner.” for rent from several ranches in the According to its website (heroes. horse), Heroes & Horses helps “veter- Quad Cities area that also provide the facilities. ans, communities and families build Pre-Covid, about 30 to 50 veterans confidence, clarity and connection through equine assisted learning and were participating in Heroes & Horses programs. therapy.” But the pandemic eventually took a The goal is to use connectedness toll on attendance. provided by horses in the herd “The numbers dropped and dynamic, guided by experienced we were forced to cancel retreats, program facilitators, to enable these sessions and individuals,” Balowski heroes “to shift their mindset from said. “The numbers have picked up. self-defeated to self-directed.” However, they are beginning to drop Horses have roamed the planet off due to the ‘new’ Covid situation.” for about 50 million years, and their
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Heroes and Horses has moved to J Bird Ranch in Chino Valley, which is a private boarding facility. Some horses staying there are being used in the program with their owners’ permission. Courtesy photo
However, two promising events are scheduled for November. They are “Retreat to Regroup,” a session for female veterans, and a “Veterans Western Experience” session with trail rides, campfires and bunkhouses. Those interested in participating can visit the website at heroes.horse for more information. In addition to veterans and those in active military duty, other individuals served by Heroes & Horses programs include firefighters, EMTs, paramedics, medical personnel, law enforcement, social workers, therapists, members in recovery communities, coaches, caregivers and hospice workers. Families are also part of the mix and veterans and family programs are funded through donations and grants. Bridgette Glade, a new therapist in the Prescott area who will be helping Balowski with groups, pointed out the importance of grants. “This program provides veterans, first responders, including therapists and
family members, to receive trauma work and counseling with grants. Many of these folks would not get these services otherwise due to financial restrictions.” Programs are individualized depending on the needs of the facility or the individual participants and usually run for five to seven weeks, with the same participants coming out for two hours each week. These programs have been especially popular. “I would say that the five- to seven-week programs offer the time and space for participants to connect with each other and the equine herd,” Balowski said. There are also dual diagnosis groups that come from local treatment centers and participate in sessions that run 90 minutes each week for seven weeks. The non-profit also provides services to mental health clinics and the V.A. Domiciliary, a long-term residential program located at the Northern Arizona Veterans Admin-
istration that focuses on chemical dependency, depression, anxiety, PTSD and life challenges. These programs are funded through the individual businesses. The two primary programs, Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP), are both tailored to the needs of individuals and groups but are different. “Equine Assisted Learning is a non-clinical approach based on developing healthy life skills, which include communication, relationship, integrating back into a civilian world and building confidence,” Balowski explained. “Equine Assisted Psychotherapy applies a more clinical approach, which may include trauma work. There is a licensed mental health practitioner that co-facilitates.” Some of the modalities used in sessions derive directly from the gifts of horses, such as working with the nonverbal zones common to horse communities, where horses make Continued on page 25
OCTOBER 2021 // Flagstaff Business News
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Tortoises Make Lifelong Companions Arizonans adopt these gentle giants through the Desert Tortoise Adoption Program
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By Emily Dieckman
ourtney Sheldon had always wanted a pet tortoise. When she was 9 years old, her family would help take care of a dog kennel when the owner was away. She spent her time at the pond out back, playing with the turtles. When she moved to Arizona in 2020, she mentioned to her boyfriend that they should get a tortoise. After all, the climate was right. She was half joking – they already had three dogs and five cats. But the idea stuck with her. Then one day on Facebook, she saw an article about how the Arizona Game and Fish Department had confiscated dozens of desert tortoises from someone who had been breeding them illegally and how these tortoises needed homes. Tegan Wolf, the desert tortoise adoption program coordinator for the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD), explained that her office is responsible for rehoming desert tortoises all throughout the state. They usually adopt out 300 to 400 tortoises every year during adoption season,
which runs from April through September. There is also a second state-sanctioned tortoise adoption facility at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, but all of the applications are received and screened through the main facility in Phoenix. These facilities only take in captive desert tortoises, which can’t be released to the wild because they may not be able to properly seek out food and because they run the risk of transmitting diseases to the wild population. “Lately, we’ve seen a lot coming in from illegal breeding,” she said. “People just don’t realize that when you put a male and a female together, they’re going to breed. We had a case earlier this year where somebody had 65 of them in one home. We also get tortoises from people moving out of state because it is illegal to take them across state lines, or people who have been taking care of a tortoise for 30 or 40 years and can’t take care of it anymore.” There’s a lot to consider when adopting out a tortoise. For example, a female can still produce viable eggs even if she has been away from a male
for a few years, so people accepting female tortoises are instructed to contact AZGFD if they observe egg laying. Often, tortoises are also very territorial, so the office usually only adopts out one per household. “They tend to fight,” Wolf said. “In the wild, [each tortoise’s] range is about a mile. They’ll bite each other’s legs or heads, flip each other over, shove each other in a corner. They can be brutal to other tortoises.” That means Tegan works closely with each applicant to make sure they have an area that will be perfect for their new pet. The department also provides guidelines about what to feed tortoises, how to manage their brumation, or hibernation season, and more. Wolf’s job has plenty of rewarding moments. Once, they took in a tortoise whose shell had been damaged and improperly fixed. Someone had tried to patch the hole using plastic epoxy. As a result, the tissue underneath the patch job started rotting away. “We called him Winnebago, because he had all those bugs just hitching a ride with him,” she said. “We were really worried about finding the perfect home for him. We finally found somebody who built the biggest, prettiest, most amazing enclosure for him, so that’s where he went. He’s a
HORSES continued from page 24
good use of their body language to convey the most basic and important messages to each other. The concepts of pull and push, so noticeable in the horse world, are also examined by session participants who ask themselves, “When do I push? When do I pull? Do I do one more than the other?” Grace said her husband, Chris Glade, was a treatment coordinator in the VA Domiciliary who told her he saw marked gains with difficult clients while attending equine therapy. She also commented on the advantages of using horses in therapy. “The horses provide an opportunity for individuals to explore their trauma in away that often can’t happen sitting in a sterile environment such as an office,” Grace said. “CBT, or talk therapy, doesn’t work with a majority of trauma survivors. It’s difficult to access that part of the brain and the parasympathetic nervous system with talking through the trauma alone. With COVID, the outdoor environment allows people to still seek help with the horses and humans, without having to sit on a computer. What a great thing!” Balowski said there is documented evidence of the success of Heroes & Horses techniques. “We have tracked anxiety and depression levels before and after sessions for three to four years, and the results have show an average reduction rate for both after a session,” she said. Balowski said she has never considered her work in Heroes & Horses to be a job. “It’s been a personal healing journey shared with others. I’ve learned more about honesty from the horses than in any other arena of my life.” FBN
TORTISE continued from page 25
saurs to hang out with and knock over in his habitat, a waterproof pad to roam around in on the house and a personal pool made from a paint pan. Under her care, he’s grown to 4.48 ounces, more than six times the size he was when she first got him. “I like to take him to this little grass field behind my yard. He’ll get on top of the grass and he just walks around – it’s like he’s going on this big adventure,” she said. “I’m glad to be a part of the tortoise community.” FBN For more information, contact the Arizona Game and Fish Department Tortoise Adoption Program at azgfd. com/wildlife/nongamemanagement/tortoise/captivecare/, 844-896-5730 or TAP@azgfd.gov. Or, contact the Desert Museum program at desertmuseum.org/programs/tap or 520-883-3062. Follow Taco the tortoise’s adventures on his adorable Instagram page, @tortietaco.
happy tortoise.” When Sheldon applied to take in a tortoise, she submitted photos of the area where she planned to keep it, and Wolf made recommendations to help her to get the habitat tortoise-ready. In May, Sheldon picked up a 0.74-ounce little friend, a Sonoran Desert Tortoise, whom she named Taco. “He’s great. I’m obsessed,” she said. “It’s ridiculous how much personality these little animals have.” Desert tortoises live to be 80+ years old in the wild, so part of Wolf’s job is making sure potential adopters have plans in place for whom they will pass
their tortoise down to. Sheldon said that won’t be a problem. Her kids are already playfully arguing about who will inherit him one day (Sheldon is only in her 30s). Wolf has become active in online tortoise forums and has already ordered a birthday costume on Etsy for Taco’s first birthday. Sheldon said the fact that Taco doesn’t require a great deal of care has been helpful to her mental health. He’s a companion who delivers cuteness and sass without demanding much. But she’s always finding new ways to spoil him. He has little plastic dinoContinued on page 25
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Flagstaff Business News // OCTOBER 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com
Considering Health During Breast Cancer Awareness Month By Christina Kovalik NMD, LAc
changes can normally occur throughout a woman’s lifetime and are often sensitive to hormone fluctuations, n the United States, breast cancer lymph congestion and environmenis the second most deadly form tal exposures. Breast tissue can be of cancer, following lung cancer, lumpy, bumpy or dense, resulting in and is the most prevalent form of all fibrocystic breast tissue. Fibrocystic cancers in women. About 240,000 women will develop breast cancer an- breasts are one of the most common nually and 40,000 will succumb to the causes of breast changes in women. They are often benign changes of the disease. Breast cancer does occur in tissue and are usually associated with men, but the number of new cases is relatively small. The good news is that high caffeine intake and estrogen dominance. annual death rates related to breast Concerns about breast tissue arise cancer have gradually decreased over time. This decline is likely because of when a woman has breast pain, a new an increase in early detection and ed- lump, skin changes, lymph swelling or nipple discharge. Breast lumps that ucation. When detected early, breast are noncancerous are cysts, fibroadcancer is much easier to treat and enoma, or fibrocystic dense breast has a high rate of survival. However, when discovered and treated at a late tissue. Cancerous lesions can begin in stage, breast cancer is often no longer different areas of the breast: the ducts, the lobules, or the tissue in between. survivable. According to the AmeriIndividual risk factors of family can Cancer Society, the five-year surhistory, reproductive history, lifestyle vival rate of stage 1 breast cancer is and environmental exposures need to 100%, but the five-year survival rate be addressed. of stage 4 breast cancer is only 22%. Optimizing hormones and promoting healthy detoxification and BREAST HEALTH TIPS Breast health is an important factor in lymphatic pathways in promoting healthy breast tissue is key in prevenwomen’s health, and being aware of any breast changes is essential. Breast tion.
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SEVEN PREVENTIVE BREAST HEALTH TIPS: 1.
Conduct regular self-breast exams – Know your breast tissue so that you can detect any changes. 2. Remember to get your yearly screening by a physician and yearly mammogram or thermography. 3. Eat a whole-food, anti-inflammatory diet – avoid excessive alcohol, tobacco and caffeine use. 4. Use EPO, Evening Primrose Oil –1000 to 1300mg daily can lessen the fibrocystic dense breast and lumpiness. 5. Consider iodine – 1-6mg daily to benefit breast and thyroid tissue by improving lymph flow. Consult your physician if you have thyroid nodules or issues to confirm that it is safe for you. 6. Use DIM- diindolemethane – 100 to 150mg can protect the breast tissue from estrogen aromatizing to the cancer-causing estrogen. 7. Testosterone optimization –
Testosterone receptors are the most widely expressed hormone receptors in the breast and may have a breast protective effect on potential breast cancers. Call for any questions or concerns and please get your screening. FBN Dr. Christina Kovalik NMD, LAc, The Vitality Doctor, is a natu-
ropathic 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.
OCTOBER 2021 // Flagstaff Business News
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Record Setting Summer Real Estate Market Turns to Fall Without Cooling
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By Lori Anna Harrison
n these unprecedented times, the real estate market in Flagstaff is at an all-time high from just about every metric we can measure. The 2021 summer season was sizzling, with the average price per square foot of a single-family (detached) home crossing the threshold from $292 per square foot to $307 per square foot from March to April of this year. This was a historic first foray into the $300s and it has continued to climb each month since. In August, the price per square foot soared to $336 and dropped only $2 to $334 in autumn. Just to put things in perspective, the price per square foot for a single-family home in September 2020 was $271, which was $63 less than it is now. Currently the mean (average) single-family home in Flagstaff sold for $737,916. Last year at this time, it sold for $696,959, an increase of $40,957 for the same home. Even at these prices, what remains remarkable is that demand consistently exceeds supply. As of Oct. 2, there are 74 single-family homes for sale in
Flagstaff. This is less than one month of supply. A balanced market has between four to six months of supply. During this September, 111 single family homes were sold. The average number of single-family homes sold per month in 2021 was 100. At this rate of absorption, we would need between 400 to 600 homes available for sale in a normal market. With only 74 single-family homes for sale, we are anemically below average; thus, sustaining a sellers’ market. Taking a look at condos and townhomes in Flagstaff, the story is similar. Last September, the average
price per square foot for a condo was $240 per square foot. This September, it was a whopping $316 per square foot. That is an increase of $76 per square foot, which means that the same townhome costs $144,683 more this September than last. Thus, the mean price of a condo or townhome is now $492,119 versus $347,436 last year this time. As a result, affordability in Flagstaff is at an all-time low. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average hourly wage in May 2020 was $23.79 per hour in Flagstaff versus $27.07 per hour nationally. With a mean salary
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of $49,483 per year, it is increasingly difficult for the average family to qualify as a first-time homebuyer. As of today, there are 27 condos and townhomes available for sale. During the month of September, there were 35 units sold, which coincidentally is also the average number of attached units sold each month this year. At that pace the market should have between 140 and 210 attached units available, which would equal four to six months of supply. Flagstaff is at 12% to 19% for attached product (condos and townhomes) and 16% to 25% for detached product
(single family homes) availability, well below where normal inventory levels should be for a balanced real estate market. Not taking into consideration the high ($2,568,189) and low ($237,500) single-family homes sold this September, the median detached home sold for $614,000. The median attached home sold for $460,000 during this same time period last month, with a high of $1,230,000 and low of $188,000 for condos and townhomes.During August, the median attached and detached home sold for Continued on page 38
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Flagstaff Business News // OCTOBER 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com
Treating Migraines with Botox
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By Dorian Lange
migraine is an inherited neurological disorder that is described as the over excitability of specific areas of the brain. Untreated migraine attacks can last several hours, or a few days. Although, medically speaking, we do not understand how a brain with migraine is dissimilar to a normal brain, we do know that people who suffer with migraines are more likely to hold the transient factors that may raise the chances of having a migraine attack. These triggers may include environmental stimuli like weather or bright lights, hormonal fluctuations,
specific smells, select foods, alcohol, low quality sleep and abnormal stress factors.
HOW DOES BOTOX WORK FOR MIGRAINES?
Botox is injected around pain fibers that are involved in headaches. Botox enters the nerve endings around where it is injected and blocks the release of chemicals involved in pain transmission. This prevents activation of pain networks in the brain. Botox prevents migraine headaches before they start, but takes time to work. One treatment may last for up to 12 weeks, and patients reported that two Botox treatments
reduced the number of headache days by approximately 50%.
WHAT IS A BOTOX TREATMENT LIKE?
With your first Botox treatment, expect the appointment to take about 40 minutes. Your medical professional will use a small needle. Many who have received the treatment compare it to a pin prick. The doctor will inject low doses of Botox into surface muscles in the skin. Each treatment involves approximately three dozen injections in seven key areas of the head and neck. The most common side effect from the Botox treatments is a sore neck. Aftercare includes
using a cold compress to reduce the discomfort. Full results can take up to six months to see the highest benefit. In the meantime, the patient can continue their regular medications on most occasions. Botox is only FDA-approved for chronic migraines. If you think this could be a treatment for you, contact us at NorthernArizonaPainInstitutes. com today! FBN
Dorian Lange is the CEO of Northern Arizona Pain Institutes. Lange is responsible for the management, administration and business development for multi-disciplinary specialty clinics throughout Central Arizona that provide integrative treatment protocols for pain management, physical and rehabilitative medicine. Learn more at northernarizonapaininstitutes. com/health-care-team/.
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County Leaders Deciding How to Invest American Rescue Plan Funds
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By Chris Pasterz
ow that the first tranches of ARPA money have been deposited in municipal and county treasury’s bank accounts, community leaders are putting their best eligible projects forward for funding, some throwing every under-funded idea out there, hoping it will stick with decision makers. This month’s articles are focused on helping to provide a context and framework to help get your project successfully funded in partnership with your local government. This article will provide an overview of the high-level requirements of ARPA funding from the U.S. Treasury and an in-depth analysis of funding purposes, and finally key decision-making factors for the decision makers of local governments who are seeking to fund community partnerships. The money is here now, and more is coming with most local governments having received half of their funds in June 2021 and the second half expected in May 2022 and the clock to distribute these funds is ticking. Local governments fund ex-
penditures must be justified according to US Treasury Guidance’s and incurred by December 31, 2024. The timeframe for the project work must be performed and completed with the funds fully expended by December 31, 2026. If the ARPA spending dollars are not expensed or in-appropriately expensed by the deadline then those funds must be returned to the US Treasury. When it comes to how the ARPA funds must be expensed, there are two general purposes, firstly to Rescue and secondly to Rebuild Better. When it comes to appropriate ways in which the funding can be used, there are five primary ways. 1Replacement of lost revenues to local governments. 2- Fund Public Health responses. 3- Address negative economic impacts for businesses, workers in impacted industries. 4- Provide premium funding for essential workers retroactively back to January 27, 2020. 5- Invest into water, sewer, and broadband infrastructure. There are also NO-NO’s with the ARPA funding and those include; reducing unfunded pension liabilities, funding general infrastructure, and economic development projects un-related to
COVID-19, for use as a non-Federal match amount for Federal grant applications, to make debt servicing payments, pay legal settlements or deposits into Rainy Day Funds. Now that the high-level requirements are outlined, we will explore more of the funding purposes as they apply to certain program/projects for which you may be seeking funding. When it comes to programs/ projects that Support Public Health Responses it is necessary to fulfill one or more of the funding purposes listed below: N Activities that prevent and mitigate COVID-19 N Providing COVID-19 treatment and medical services N Enhancing mental and behavioral health services which were negatively impacted by the pandemic N Supporting local workforce providing health and safety services N Improving public health programs N Reducing disparities in public health outcomes If your project/program Address Negative Economic Impacts, then it must fulfill one or more of the fund-
Amber Belt, ND
a Naturopathic Physician focusing on PRP Prolotherapy Regenerative Medicine Natural Pain Relief Naturopathic Medicine
Flagstaff’s Most Experienced Naturopathic Physicians. Schedule your appointment by calling 928.213.5828 or by visiting www.aspenmedcenter.com
ing purposes, with a preference for serving the most disproportionately impacted groups: N Providing assistance to households N Supporting non-profits and small businesses N Providing aid to those industries impacted by the pandemic N Rehiring laid-off local government staff N Providing training to unemployed workers N Improving the performance of economic relief programs N Proving services for residents living in Qualified Census Tracts (QCT) and other disproportionately impacted communities Third-party employers that are seeking premium pay for essential workers must have employees performing contracted work to local governments in the following roles: N Social and human services staff. N Childcare workers and educators. N Public health and safety staff. N Truck drivers, transit and warehouse staff. N Janitors and sanitation staff. N Food production, grocery and
restaurant staff. N Nursing home, hospital and homecare staff. Water, Sewer, and Broadband Infrastructure projects related to COVID-19 must fulfill one or more of the following funding purposes: N Provide or improve clean drinking water. N Create green infrastructure. N Project water from pollution. N Improve infrastructure resilience. N Build, improve, or repair wastewater treatment plants. N Flood Control or manage stormwater runoff. N Provide internet to unserved and underserved households. Every Leader in Coconino County, both those elected and employed, has the responsibility to steward the ARPA funding and publicly expense it or invest it into programs and projects that meet the eligibility requirements. The leaders must also face the scrutiny of the public as expenses and investment (both amounts and purposes) are published, these decisions Continued on page 38
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Flagstaff Business News // OCTOBER 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com
To Buy or Not to Buy
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By Paula Mack
f you are an investor or home buyer in Flagstaff and have weathered the storms and purchased a property within the past year, despite competing with multiple offers at relatively high prices, good for you! You probably had to waive or partially waive your appraisal contingency, possibly accept the property in its current condition without asking the seller to make any repairs, and maybe even “sweetened “ your purchase offer with a non-refundable earnest money deposit or more. Regardless of whether you bought last year or even earlier this year, if a potential buyer or investor asked
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you if you had any regrets, I believe that response would be a resounding “No regrets,” despite feeling like you’ve been pummeled in a washing machine. Life is filled with risks. No one has a crystal ball, but forecasters, using MLS, regional and local data, and bank grade data agree our local Flagstaff real estate market is positioned to continue its upward trajectory, at least in the near five-year future. From 2020 to 2021, the median sales price for a home in the Flagstaff 86001 zip code has jumped another 22%, with “Days on Market,” or the time required to sell the property, reduced by 29%. Absorption rate is a great tool
to use to assess the pace of activity in any market. It describes how many months of inventory supply is available for sale at a specific price range. The more inventory available to purchase, the greater the number of months to “absorb” that home inventory. The shorter the time to absorb the inventory, the higher the activity in that price point. A “buyer’s market” is typically at or longer than six months of inventory absorption. For reference, only homes greater than $2.4 million have more than six months of inventory in Flagstaff. Properties under $600,000 only have three weeks of inventory. Clearly, we are still firmly in a strong “seller’s market.” But, is it still a good
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time to buy? Like anything in life that involves risk, we can only use the data, both current and historic, to give us clues about the probability of a positive outcome. Ask your trusted realtor for advice on the market and don’t be discouraged. Many buyers make offers on multiple properties in hopes of getting an acceptance. Your persistence will be rewarded. Most importantly, you need to decide what you want and where you want to be. Flagstaff continues to be a “buy” because of where and what Flagstaff is all about. You just aren’t buying a property, you are investing in a four-season, outdoor,
wooded wonderland, complete with Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff Medical Center, great restaurants, passionate non-profits, and both professional and amateur creative artists. And all within a couple hours drive of the fasting growing metropolis for a record 25 months. You are buying a lifestyle! If you do decide to take the leap, congratulations and welcome to our community of Flagstaff! FBN Paula Mack, SRES, is a REALTOR with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. She can be reached at 928-699-6837 or paula.mack@russlyon.com.
OCTOBER 2021 // Flagstaff Business News
@flagstaffbusinessnews
31
Dark Sky Brewing Promoting Starry Nights with Circadian Rhythm IPA
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ince 2014, Dark Sky Brewing Co., in downtown Flagstaff, has been promoting the community’s famously dark skies that have served as an inspiration for the brewery. “We chose the name Dark Sky Brewery as a homage to Flagstaff’s beautiful night skies and intend to support and promote the beauty of our home through craft beer,” said the brewery’s Event Coordinator Miguel Sotelo. “We rely heavily on our connection to the sky as we develop and design new beers year ‘round. By doing so we have created a craft beer selection that is as unique and beautiful as every star, meteor and comet we can see right from our backyard.” Dark Sky Brewing has created a special IPA to support the Flagstaff
Dark Skies Coalition during this month’s continued Celebration of the Night. Circadian Rhythm is a Hazy IPA full-bodied beer with strong notes of citrus and juice. “For us, this collaboration just makes sense,” said Sotelo. “We chose the beer ‘Circadian Rhythm’ because of its bright and powerful flavors. Like the members of our beautiful community, we are thrilled at the opportunity to support the bright and powerful people that directly protect, educate, and support Flagstaff as the First International Dark Sky City.” Through October, a portion of Circadian Rhythm IPA sales will benefit the Coalition and its efforts to keep Flagstaff’s starry skies dark, promote dark-sky friendly lighting and inform others about the benefits of the dark
sky resource. In addition, as the company grows and gains recognition for its craft brews, Dark Sky Brewing is aiding in dark-sky awareness. Its brews such as Quiet Life and Rainy Daze are now in beer and wine establishments and taprooms in the greater Phoenix metro area. With a solid nod to the dark sky resource and space exploration, Dark Sky Brewing offers merchandise such as the Crowler Series and other glassware, stickers, key chains, coasters, knit beanies, baseball caps, t-shirts and muscle tanks in its taproom and online. Meanwhile, as Celebration of the Night continues this month, events include NightVisions Satellite exhibits at Arizona Handmade and The Artists’ Gallery, online presentations
highlighting cosmic features and space exploration, and “The Uncertainty Principle,” a ticketed dance performance at the Coconino Center for the Arts from Human Nature Dance Theater. For more information, see the full calendar of programs and details at FlagstaffDarkSkies.org. We are thrilled to have Dark Sky Brewing as a sponsor and appreciate their ongoing efforts to get the word out about the many ways we value our dark skies, including for science discovery and adventure,” said Coalition Board Chair Chris Luginbuhl. “We offer a toast in honor of Dark Sky Brewing as October’s Dark Sky Champion!” Dark Sky Brewing has been voted “Best of Business” by Flagstaff Business News readers. Dark Sky Brewing Co.
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is located at 117 N Beaver St. For more information, visit the website at darkskybrewing.com or Instagram @ darkskybrewing. FBN
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Flagstaff Business News // OCTOBER 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com
Forming Healthy Habits for Sustainable Recovery By Roy J. DuPrez M.Ed.
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ost men who come to treatment are here because their lives have become unmanageable and they are in dire need of structure. The carefully designed schedule of Back2Basics mirrors that of a balanced lifestyle, focusing on the discipline required to accomplish the tasks needed to maintain a healthy existence. Creating and adhering to a personal daily routine that includes getting enough sleep, eating nutritious foods, interacting positively with others
and moving the body is the path to freedom. The program successfully begins the process of training its residents to do this by reducing the number of decisions they make each day, so they can focus on the tasks they need to restore and maintain their health. Diverse activities become standardized and they become more efficient in staying in the present, taking care of themselves, working with others and meeting new challenges; there is no room for forgetfulness or neglect. The process gives them the opportunity to experience the flow and pleasure of a day without addic-
tive substances. William McRaven, a retired fourstar admiral in the United States Navy, draws on his extraordinary experiences to offer insights into accomplishment in life in “Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life…and Maybe The World.” McRaven presents the learned can-do attitude necessary for overcoming challenges and reaching deep inside to live a life of personal choice. The former Navy SEAL discusses how daily rituals are the key to embedding tasks into the mind to the extent they are eventually accomplished
// Creating and adhering to a personal daily routine that includes getting enough sleep, eating nutritious foods, interacting positively with others and moving the body is the path to freedom. The program successfully begins the process of training its residents to do this by reducing the number of decisions they make each day, so they can focus on the tasks they need to restore and maintain their health. //
with little or no thought. Even the simplest of daily rituals like brushing your teeth, making your bed, eating breakfast every day or cleaning up after yourself builds self-sufficiency and feelings of accomplishment. In other words, today’s progress is compounded by yesterday’s effort, no matter how small, and all comes down to the power of self-discipline, taking one step at a time. According to a study conducted by University College London, it takes at least 66 days to make a habit stick. The daily schedule at Back2Basics is set up so residents are consistently engaging in the replacement of poor habits for daily routines that benefit their health and maturity, such as eating nutritious meals or exercising 30 minutes a day and, over time, the new behavior is no longer questioned. It becomes second nature, a new habit. Additionally, the staff at Back2Basics works diligently to help the young men devise and adhere to routines that foster their particular goals and aspirations. Settling in to these positive routines continuously shines a light on what is truly important in life. It shines a light on the path to a productive, sober life. Back2Basics is an adventure recovery program, for young adult males
from 18-30 with substance abuse issues looking for a positive and meaningful life. The program combines residential therapeutic counseling with experiential outdoor adventures. Back2Basics is an Arizona state licensed and Joint Commission nationally accredited treatment. Now accepting most medical insurance. For more information, visit back2basics-soberliving.com. FBN Roy J. DuPrez M.Ed., is the CEO and founder of Back2Basics Outdoor Adventure Recovery, back2basics-soberliving.com. Back2Basics is an adventure recovery program, up to six months, for young adult males, from 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 programing. Now accepting all private insurance plans. Call 928-814-2220 or email rduprez@b2badventures.com. or back2basicsoutdooradventures.com
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OCTOBER 2021 // Flagstaff Business News
@flagstaffbusinessnews
// MAYOR’S ADDRESS // BY PAUL DEASY
Addressing Public Safety for the Winter
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lagstaff City Council had an infrastructure retreat on Sept. 30, which had some very important projects needing to be addressed, particularly around stormwater, wastewater, bike/ped and public safety. We have faced a lot over the summer and are working hard to prepare for winter on these fronts. The catastrophic flooding we faced this year needs to be addressed and done quickly. This was a primary part of the infrastructure discussion. Although this will take time to complete and fully fund, we are planning to repair and improve parts of Sunny-
side neighborhood this fall to assist in mitigating future flooding, which could potentially even be occurring again this winter. Back in June, Flagstaff City Council decided to place protective bike lanes on Beaver Street and Butler Avenue to help improve bike/ped safety. This was designed as a pilot program to improve bike lanes by installing protected concrete barriers between bicyclists and vehicles. The major concern with this coming into winter was: what were we going to do about snow plowing? I am proud of the ingenuity of staff members, who for this two-mile stretch
// We have heard for many years how the prior model has negatively affected those who walk or bike during the winter months and this pilot project will be a great way to test a new model that could potentially be used on other main thoroughfares in town. I am very excited about this new direction we are headed to promote bicycling. //
of road (Butler from Sawmill to Milton, and Beaver from Butler to Cedar), will be utilizing new equipment and a new model for plowing. Rather than pushing the snow out of the road into the bike/ped lanes down the two miles of road on Butler and Beaver St., we will be pushing it toward the center and hauling the snow from there. We have heard for many years how the prior model has negatively affected those who walk or bike during the winter months and this pilot project will be a great way to test a new model that could potentially be used on other main thoroughfares in town. I am very excited about this new direction we are headed to promote bicycling. On Oct. 12, Flagstaff City Council will be discussing the use of American Rescue Plan dollars from the federal government. After refilling our losses from the pandemic, we have $8.75 million to work with. There are certain restrictions on its use, however. Our discussions have been around using the funds for housing, broadband expansion, early childhood education, business and
non-profit grants, and our alternate first response model, whereby a behavioral health specialist and medic will respond to certain 911 calls around mental health, substance use and other non-violent crises. I’m looking forward to this discussion. Please send us your thoughts on this issue to council@flagstaffaz.gov. Another change I wanted to mention is that Flagstaff City Council meetings are going to be more accessible to the deaf and hard of hearing as we install equipment to provide closed captioning for our livestream meetings. A year ago, we did not have closed captioning at all, and I’m hoping that this will create greater inclusion in who can participate in not only City Council meetings, but some of our citizen commission meetings as well. FBN These statements and views are solely my own and I am speaking for myself and not for the City of Flagstaff or Flagstaff City Council.
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www.flagstaff businessnews.com/subscribe INSIDE THE JANUARY
Land Purchase Eyed for Economic Development p. 3
p. 7 Community Profile: Geri Hongeva Promotes Navajo Language through Star Wars p. 13
Scientists Helping Reforestation Efforts in Panama p. 6
Knees
2020 ISSUE:
Forest Health Hero Wally Covington Retires from NAU
Local Veterans Feeling Support from Nation of Patriots p. 4
New Year, New
Doctors and therapists at Rehabilitation Northern Arizona want patients back Hospital of on their feet By V. Ronnie Tierney, FBN
A
fter 400 backcountry hikes into the Grand Canyon, trips down the Colorado 100 River and scores of worldwide excursions spanning a 44-year career, it was no surprise to 65-year-old geologist Wayne Ranney knees began to bother when his him. “I went to the doctor, tried a couple treatments and when they didn’t
he said with a laugh. level of care,” said “The rooms were Dr. fantastic, private work, the doctors and I can’t say enough physician and medical Richard Holt, said I would be about the director. a good candidate Complete with 24/7 for bilateral replace- staff. They were very attentive, ment – that is double caring and professional. When coverage, an on-site physician knee surgery pharmacy I left, with three – so I agreed,” said hugs were all around.” full-time pharmacists, Ranney. “The surgery went well nursing and patient With a staff of 120, and care technicians, the Rehabilionly took two hours.” surprisingly tation Hospital of Northern Arizona full-time occupational, speech and opened in February A big boost for physical therapy, Ranney in his Holt said, “There 2018. The post-op recovery is 40-bed facility is nothing like us in was the care he the only rehabilNorthern Arizona received at the Rehabilitation itation care facility and now patients in Northern can stay in the Hospital of Northern Arizona and is a Arizona. “I spent joint-commissioned community that is close to their 12 days in recovery accredited hospital. “Before homes and families there, which I and get worldwe believe helped to opened here, patients class rehabilitation save my marriage,” care.” would have to travel literally hours Ranney says the food is great, to get this type/ Continued on
PHX & LAX
8 FLIGHTS A DAY 7 DAYS A WEEK Please consider being dropped off as parking is limited.
Game On: ‘Flagsta Local’ Rewards ff Shopping, Helping , Giving Players
Mountain Sports Owner Lisa Lamberson make a difference says the Flagstaff in the community. Local movement “When dollars are Lamberson, shown brings spent locally, businesses awareness to actions that here with Mountain Patagonia to grant Sports General Manager have more to give $10,000 to the Azulita back.” Britni Montague, program promotes reducing single-use Project, represented by Maria Campbell recently partnered with plastics, like plastic straws, in Flagstaff’s and James Q. Martin. The service industry. January Courtesy photo
2020 | Issue 1 Volume
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earn points and a chance at prizes for ‘actions that matter;’ businesses have more to give back
By Bonnie Stevens, FBN game thought up by the Economic Vitality t is like Jumanji Diviwithout killer ostriches. Flagstaff the sion and Discover Flagstaff Local is a community-wide tourism folks at the City Flagstaff, and everybody of wins.
I
It involves deeds that benefit the greater good and earn players points. Flagstaff Local is similar to some video games in which the better you do, the better your health, except in this case, the better the health of the community. Mountain Sports Flagstaff Continued on
INSIDE THE FEBRUARY
Flagstaff Shines on Signs p. 4
A
By Bonnie Stevens,
FBN
rizona’s largest wind energy project, the Chevelon Butte Wind Farm, is expected to have turbine blades spinning in a remote area south of Winslow by the end of 2021, and power the region with an estimated $8 million in indirect economic benefits during the construction phase.
2020 ISSUE:
Community Profile: Scotty McPeak Promotes Olive Oil, Healthy Living p. 13 Lowell, ERAU Share Cosmic Forces p. 16
Neighborhood Barbershop Expanding p. 5 Barrett-Jackson
Harnessing the
State’s largest wind farm to produce jobs and millions electricity, in economic impact to region
Gleams with Car Show Tradition p. 11
Wind
customers by 2050. “We’re pretty excited. “We This project sPower are super excited,” said fits with our vision Senior Permitting and comprehenManager sive plan to look sPower, a Salt Lake Terrance Unrein. at renewable energy “This is the right City-based renewable energy sources,” said Coconino project for Arizona developer, received and County unanimous approval Supervisor Matt and Navajo counties’ for Coconino Ryan. to move forward communities at on the project from the right time, especially At full build-out, both Coconino the wind farm with the coal and Navajo counties is expected to be plant closures. Wind two or three times and energy is a great Corporation Commission,the Arizona larger than any opportunity for other operating our future and I which wind this is one think company officials energy project in of the best projects say is a rare feat the state, with 164 we’re for any wind farm, turbines spread ever going to see across 42,000 acres much less one of in the area, given its this size. This came and generating 477 incredibly remote just weeks before and windy location, megawatts, the APS announced equivalent of enough proximity to viable its goal transmission infraelectricity to 100% clean, carbon-free to deliver power a structure, and planned electricity to people. community of about 150,000 lack to threatened or endangeredof impacts species.” Continued on
PHX & LAX
8 FLIGHTS A DAY 7 DAYS A WEEK Please consider being dropped off as parking is limited.
page 41
CCC C-LAB Opens for Students to Gain Hands-O n Skills
Upgraded construction technology shop made possible Foundation grant with Del E. Webb By Larry Hendricks,
Paul Deasy is the mayor of Flagstaff.
Del E. Webb Foundation President John B. the $1 million in Lees shows off grant funding the a hammer he received college received Street campus. in gratitude from to help with the Courtesy photo CCC for remodel of the C-LAB on the Fourth
February 2020
| Issue 2 Volume
13
C
FBN
oconino Community College alumnus William Gonzales stood in the space with a smile on his face.
He ran his hand along the workstation, felt the sawdust.
The Coconino Community College C-LAB for Construction Technology Management students has officially opened for students. More The smell of newness than filled people were on hand 50 the shop. Metal surfaces, once for the late-January dull, gleamed. Tools, ready for celebration. ribbon-cutting use, lined walls. The newly refurbished shop was “This is just so amazing,” made possible with the help of Gonzales said, glancing a $1 million grant from the Del around. “I wish E. Webb it looked like Foundation. this when I started taking Among those in classes.” attendance Continued on
Don’t Let Your Pain Determine the Outcome of Your Day
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Flagstaff Business News // OCTOBER 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com
When Practice is Fun
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By Rob Wilson
arksmanship is a perishable skill. If you don’t practice, your accuracy, speed and familiarity will diminish. The solution is simple: practice, practice, practice. While it may be difficult to get excited about doing dry fire drills at home, there is an alternative that is both fun and allows you to practice unique skills. Competitive shooting sports are alive and well in Northern Arizona. Almost every Saturday, there is an event happening that can offer both a fun way to practice and significantly improve your skill sets. Some folks shy away from competitive events because of a combination of doubt about their skills and fear of judgement from the other competitors. I’ll assure you that at the matches here, that doesn’t happen. You’ll be among a group of like-minded men and women who are having a great time improving their skills. There are several different sanctioning organizations that have events here. Let’s do a quick review of what they are: N USPSA (United States Practical Shooters Association) is described as the fastest and most exhilarat-
ing form of practical shooting, you’ll be moving and shooting at a variety of paper and steel targets at ranges of 5 to 30 yards. The scoring system favors speed over accuracy. N IDPA (International Defensive Pistol Association) is the use of practical equipment including full charge ammunition to solve simulated real world self-defense scenarios using practical handguns and holsters that are suitable for self-defense use. The main goal is to challenge the skill and ability of an individual. Scoring places an emphasis on accuracy over speed N Steel Challenge – If you haven’t shot steel targets before, you’re missing out on a lot of fun. The immediate gratification that comes from hearing that steel “ring” when you score a hit is amazing. You’ll be moving and shooting faster than you imagined and all the while, improving your skills. N SASS - Cowboy Action Shooting – Want to relive a bit of the Old West? This is your chance! Cowboy Action Shooters dress the part and use the firearms of the Old West, including revolvers, lever
action rifles and shotguns. You can learn more about these and other opportunities to have fun while training by contacting the Flagstaff Action Shooters at flagstaffactionshooters.org. Guests are always welcome at the events as long
as you’re wearing the required eye and ear protection. So, come on out and do some shooting! FBN
with Liberty Safes. For more information, visit timberlinefirearms.us.
Rob Wilson is the owner (with his wife, Elise) of Timberline Firearms & Training in Flagstaff. They offer a full line of firearms, accessories, safes and ammunition along
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OCTOBER 2021 // Flagstaff Business News
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35
Imagining a World Beyond the Pandemic
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By Susan Obijiski
vents like the COVID-19 pandemic can turn the world upside down. The immediate impact of this turmoil creates sometimes insurmountable challenges to small businesses. But it is nearly impossible to predict the long-term effects on those small businesses that have somehow managed to survive the initial blow. Small businesses may have a narrower margin with which to withstand the upheaval of a global pandemic, or an economic downturn,
but these businesses do possess one advantage over the large enterprise. If a “mom and pop” or small business recognizes the need to engender agility, there are fewer team members to convince and it is easier to turn the ship quickly. That does not mean that a business can avoid the commitment to continuous improvement. There is still a need to look at how things are done, and to comprehensively analyze what customers wanted last year, versus what they want this year. Understanding trends, patterns and changes, and responding to those changes, is crucial to success. During
// During this time of change, the wise business owner tried to reimagine his products and services and find ways to connect with customers online and to create a flexible business environment that could carry him through the uncertain times and be agile enough to survive what might come next. To survive now and in the future, businesses must create an operational environment that can flex to future challenges. //
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the pandemic, local businesses struggled with issues involving in-person buyers vs. online presence. A tour company could no longer count on visitors to the area, and the very immediate issue was how to generate revenue. A retail store owner could not count on an influx of shoppers walking through the door. During this time of change, the wise business owner tried to reimagine his products and services and find ways to connect with customers online and to create a flexible business environment that could carry him through the uncertain times and be agile enough to survive what might come next. To survive now and in the future, businesses must create an operational environment that can flex to future challenges. Managers must cut expenses and have a detailed understanding of what products and services to keep, what to change when business falls off, and how to prepare for continuous improvement and business reinvention. Books and workshops can help, but the business owner must truly engage and change the management approach, the way team members are trained, how involved the team is in the day-to-day operation, and how team members can contribute to and
adapt to change. Every aspect of the business – from location to hiring and training, to business investments, to product and service choices, to the competitive landscape, the efficiency of ordering, supply networks and day-to-day operations – must reflect a culture of team involvement, factbased decisions and solid analysis of how to prepare for, and adapt to, change. While small businesses may need support and advice to enable this kind of change and to create a foundation for agility, most cannot afford the expense of a business consultant. That’s where SCORE comes in. SCORE provides free counseling to small businesses. SCORE (the Service Corps of Retired Executives) was founded in 1964, and it is a non-profit arm of the Small Business Administration (SBA). Today, the SCORE team is comprised of active and retired business professionals who volunteer their time to provide free and confidential business advice to start-up businesses, businesses wishing to expand and small businesses facing the challenges of the COVID-19 economy and trying to prepare for the future. These services are available
to all small businesses, and SCORE provides subject matter experts and mentors who focus on all types of issues, challenges and business problems and opportunities. If you wish to explore these services, you can contact the team at 928-778-7438, via NorthernArizona.SCORE.org, or on social media at facebook.com/ SCORENorthernArizona. FBN Susan Obijiski is a business consultant and Certified SCORE Mentor. Obijiski has more than 40 years of experience as a business executive and manager, and has worked in retail, in the arts, and for large and small corporations in software development, product development, quality management and other disciplines. She serves on the Sedona Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and has served as board chair for Simmons Graduate School of Management. She manages content for software companies creating articles, white papers, web content, blogs and technical content and has published four novels.
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Flagstaff Business News // OCTOBER 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com
Changes in Employee Health Insurance Benefits
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By Ken Whitley
f you are an employer in Northern Arizona that pays for a portion of your employees’ health insurance premiums, you should learn about the major changes that are now happening. No longer will you be limited to the ho-hum plans that about four different carriers offer — where they tell you what you can have and that your premium is going up and your benefits are reduced. Now, you get to design your company’s plan and it will have the benefits that you want; plus, now you
can truly save money on your health insurance premiums, which could amount to about $1,000 per employee per year. If you have 10 employees, statistics tell us that you should save about $10,000 a year. How can this be? Simple. Currently, you are stuck with plans that provide benefits that cost a lot of money that your employees do not use. Now, there is a way for you to provide those benefits, but you only pay for them if and when employees use them. This may sound too good to be true, but that is what every employer says until they see the process
illustrated. This process is utilized by almost every large employer and was discovered by some very smart smaller employers, too. This process utilizes statistics, section 105 of the IRS code and an MERP (Medical Expense Reimbursement Program). You can look up the code and MERP, but the statistics come from the United States Department of Labor: more than half of all employees barely use their health plan or do not use it at all; yet, you and your employees are paying for it every month. That is a concern and an expense you can now control.
// This process is utilized by almost every large employer and was discovered by some very smart smaller employers, too. This process utilizes statistics, section 105 of the IRS code and an MERP (Medical Expense Reimbursement Program). You can look up the code and MERP, but the statistics come from the United States Department of Labor: more than half of all employees barely use their health plan or do not use it at all; yet, you and your employees are paying for it every month. That is a concern and an expense you can now control. //
Employers and employees also are: N Concerned about the ever-escalating deductibles; N Worried about rising health care costs every year; N Worried that your child’s and/or your doctor are not in the plan; N Concerned about the increasing government’s mandates that increase costs; N Worried about the ever increasing out-of-pocket costs; N Concerned about the mandated networks and limiting coverages. This process has been around for years, but it has had some major improvements lately. One of those is using different ways of looking at your claims history before the process devises, develops and even offers you the opportunity to participate in a specialized program exclusively for you and your employees. Your current insurance in most cases will not provide you with your claims history. This process helps employers obtain this critical information from most insurance carriers in America. When combining the statistics of your claims with Sect 105/MERP, the process
can develop a long-term sustainable health insurance program for you and your employees. All of this sounds like it may be for employer groups of thousands of employees — and it is. But the process was developed by very smart people, and they reduced it to perform as well for small groups — as few as five employees. The optimum size group of the hundreds of plans in force in the USA is less than 100 full-time employees. Lehrman Group has been in the health insurance industry in Arizona since 1988, and to us, this is the most exciting revelation for employers in years. Now you can have a plan that you control and design. It would be the first plan that you can change to your liking whenever you wish. FBN If you would like more information, contact Ken Whitley at ken@lehrmangroup.com or 928-813-7173 x 19. Ken Whitley is the director of group sales at Lehrman Group.
OCTOBER 2021 // Flagstaff Business News
@flagstaffbusinessnews
37
Flagstaff Pulliam Airport: A Look Back, A Look Forward By Barney Helmick
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hen I look back on the first three quarters of 2021, it is with mixed feelings. If we took out the previous two years and looked at our passenger numbers, it was a very good year. Having said that, there were far too many challenges that dim that optimism. We, like all businesses in our community, faced staffing shortages. One of our most important business partners, the rental cars, could not get enough staff and faced their car shortage head on. The airlines faced major staff shortages nationally that included a lack of pilots, crews, mechanics and line staff. They also dealt
with software glitches, hurricanes and fuel shortages that impacted each carrier. Much of the year, Lyft, Uber, taxicabs and other ground transportation were not available for visitors and residents utilizing the airport. Even with all that, everyone found a way to make this a productive year in rental car sales, airline passengers and private flyers. We thank the passengers who chose to fly out of Flagstaff Pulliam Airport. It is a choice – and often this year, the experience wasn’t as pleasant as we expect from our airport. One area, which has been difficult for several years, is our parking lot. This year, we finally got the funding, planning and support from local
contractors to get the new lot started. With this, we will be taking away one of the favored perks in Flagstaff: free parking. Although we will be charging for parking in the new year, it will remain at a reasonable price. Expect us to be bringing rates to City Council before the end of the year. The new lot is a little further walk than the existing lot. The rate will be a little less for that lot, which will be called the economy lot. Our existing lot, as it is closer, will be called the premium lot. As a thank you to our patrons, we will not be implementing paid parking until after the holidays this season and there will always be free time for those who are dropping off or picking up.
Another change coming to our parking areas will be an electric vehicle charging station. There will be six parking/charging stations, which, for now, will be free. Because the location is outside of the paid parking, we will have to enforce short-term parking to keep them available for all electric vehicle patrons. The proximity to the terminal will be ideal for a patron’s car to be plugged in for the time it takes to either help your friends and loved ones into the terminal or help them out with their bags. In the next two years, we have other changes that will begin. To help with crowding in specific areas of the terminal, we will implement some needed upgrades for our customers as
well as overdue maintenance. Thanks to all of you who flew out of Flagstaff Pulliam Airport in 2021. I am optimistic that 2022 will be a good year for all Flagstaff businesses, residents, visitors and more. Please remember, in order to get more routes besides Phoenix, Denver and Dallas, we need to continue to raise enplanements and fill seats. If you have questions about service, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at bhelmick@flagstaffaz.gov FLY FLAGSTAFF FIRST! FBN Barney Helmick is the airport director for the City of Flagstaff.
REAL ESTATE TIP OF THE MONTH WITH KEELE SMITH There are many things to do when preparing your home for sale; decluttering, neutral colors/themes, personal items removed, baking cookies before a showing and having small maintenance issues taken care of. I think one thing that is frequently missed, and is insisted upon by the most successful agents, is to have a PROFESSIONAL clean BEFORE listing photos are taken and then a regular clean every couple of weeks while it’s on the market (if it lasts that long). Yes, it is going to cost $500+ but you only get one chance to make a first impression and clean homes will sell faster and higher, even in this market. A CLEAN house will show pride of ownership and help alleviate questions if the home was cared for while you owned it.
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Flagstaff Business News // OCTOBER 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com
How to Write a Compelling Grant Application
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By Ana Fano
t Health First Foundation Northern Arizona, our mission is to improve the health and well-being of individuals and communities through leadership, innovation and partnership. One of the ways we accomplish this is through our Northern Arizona Community Health Grant, awarded annually to exceptional organizations that support our mission with high-impact projects and programs. Each year, we review letters of intent and applications for groundbreaking health and wellness initiatives, and a strong application is key to securing funding. To that end, our
grantmaking team at Health First Foundation has compiled the following tips to ensure your application is best positioned for success. 1. Share how your project supports our mission. Understanding where our goals align and how your project or program can raise the bar for community health is paramount. Connecting these dots helps us to better evaluate your application, and will provide you a focused lens through which to communicate your initiative. 2. Let your passion guide you. As the saying goes, “Enthusiasm moves the world.” It can also move our grant reviewers to fund your organization. Include compelling facts that reflect
// The best way to ensure our team can review your application efficiently is to craft your answers purposefully and intentionally. Brevity is key, and a good rule of thumb is to write for general understanding. Get straight to the point, rely on common sense language, and make sure every word you use contributes to directly answering our questions. //
your passion—examples paint us a picture of your impact and provide us a reason to rally around your cause. 3. Don’t apply until you’re ready. As stated above, passion is welcome and encouraged, but it’s important you make sure the time is right for your organization to lead and implement your project. Conducting an honest evaluation with your organization early on to ensure all of the components are in place can potentially save you headaches down the road because you weren’t quite prepared. 4. Create a core application team. Work with program staff to confirm you are representing the expertise and perspectives of the team that will implement the work. Collaboration is a great asset to this process; however, it’s also important to have one primary decision maker who drives the application progress forward. 5. Include meaningful collaborators. Collaboration plays a critical role in our ability to improve health and change lives. We want to hear about your partners and collaborators, including how they contribute to your process and will add to your project’s success. 6. Manage time wisely. Starting the process as early as possible is the best way to position your application for success. Put a schedule in place, delegate action items and assign
deadlines. You’ll also want time to ensure your attachments and documents are up to date; our grant application asks for organizational documents and résumés, and the last thing you want is an 11th hour scramble gathering everything you need. 7. Keep your responses focused. The best way to ensure our team can review your application efficiently is to craft your answers purposefully and intentionally. Brevity is key, and a good rule of thumb is to write for general understanding. Get straight to the point, rely on common sense language, and make sure every word you use contributes to directly answering our questions. Also, please eliminate acronyms, jargon and industry-speak – this has the potential to hinder comprehension, create confusion and can ultimately complicate the process for our grant application reviewers. 8. Allow time for fresh eyes to review. Another reason to budget time early is to provide you a window for proofreading and polishing. When possible, ask someone who is not connected to the project to review and provide feedback. This decreases the chance of typos and allows for an outside perspective. Thank you for your interest in partnering with us
in our mission. In closing, we would like to recognize the excellent organizations recently funded through our Northern Arizona Community Health Grant: N Manzanita Outreach N Flagstaff Shelter Services N Arizona’s Children Association N Steps to Recovery Homes N Creek Valley Health Clinic N Northern Arizona University N Jerry Ambrose Veterans Council N Polara Health Commencing in December 2021 for June 2022 awards, the Northern Arizona Community Health Grant cycle will focus on mitigating chronic health conditions in Northern Arizona. Such conditions, especially diabetes, heart disease, obesity, respiratory conditions, cancer and dental disease are significant health priorities in our region. For more information, visit healthfirstforall.org/grant-funding. FBN
Ana Fano is the operations manager for the Health First Foundation. The Health First Community Fund is a comprehensive campaign to improve health in our region. To learn more about the fund or to donate, visit the Health First Foundation website, healthfirstforall.org.
REAL ESTATE continued from page 27
$425,000 and $620,500 respectively. Of note, September is where we start to see some slight differences, the condo and townhome median was higher than the month prior and single-family homes median was lower. Will October data show signs of chilling? If it is anything like last year, then yes, it will. But, then again, nothing about 2021 Flagstaff real estate has been predictable. Stay tuned next month to find out if we will see seasonal autumn changes. Email us to let us know your real estate prediction. FBN Lori Anna Harrison is a Flagstaff native and 17-year real estate veteran commencing postgraduate school with Shea Homes. Lori is a full-time realtor with Zion Realty, LLC and head of Arizona Dream Lifestyle. Call her today at 928-396-5851or text 602-524-5674, email lori@AZdreamlifestyle.com and visit AZdreamlifestyle.com.
ARPA continued from page 38
and their impacts will be very transparent, thus reinforcing the importance of your program/ project’s justifications. Demonstrating the need is often generalized but when it comes to ARPA funded activities, the general and biggest need is not enough. It is clear from the US Treasury Guidance that specifically targeting a disproportionately impacted demographic will be preferable to identify a general population need. Use the Qualifying Census Tracts and other economic data sets to focus on those populations most negatively impacted and be prepared to report on your outcomes. Reporting on your project/program outcomes on a quarterly basis should be expected as Local Governments must report on outcomes and expenses for any ARPA-subrecipient who received more than $50,000. These ARPA funds while great and unprecedented are not without strings attached. In order to make sure your project/program request for ARPA funding is thoughtfully considered by leaders, make sure your purposes are clear, your justification detailed, and your outcomes specific and regularly reportable. Now you know the high-level requirements, the funding purposes and the keys to helping the decision-makers fund your project/programs with ARPA funds. If you want to discuss your project in more detail or want assistance with justifications, please contact me. FBN Chris Pasterz is the economic development manager for Coconino County. He can be reached at cpasterz@ cococino.az.gov or 928-679-7134.
CARS continued from page 14
especially those who have cars similar to yours. N Check for certification such as that from the National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence. N Look for online reviews and customer appraisals. N Find out if the shop does full-service repair work or if it is a specialty shop (e.g., radiator or brakes). N See if the shop offers warranties or guarantees to stand behind its work. Davis also is strict about regular maintenance on any vehicle. “The first thing I tell folks is that they need to really pay attention to changing the oil regularly, as recommended by the manufacturer. Oil breaks down. Newer cars are not like those older vehicles that could go on and on. Pay absolute attention to regular oil changes. The second absolutely necessary maintenance: brakes and suspension. Not only is ride quality affected but even more important, safety,” he said. His third point of emphasis is about regular diagnostics of engine status: battery, electrical, fluids and filters. “Modern cars are so sophisticated that if you ignore one of the engine components, you’re likely to wind up with bigger and costlier repair issues in the future. New cars are engineered to run for hundreds of thousands of miles – but only if they are well maintained and cared for,” he stressed. Network Service Adviser Desiree Gunder offers advice about service warranties and extended warranties. “I tell folks to ignore those random telephone calls from Rachel and letters about buying an extended warranty. Before you ever think about getting one of those, do the research. Be sure it is honest and reliable, and not some hyped-up sales pitch that takes your money and then disappears.” Gunder, who has worked for Network for several years, also comments about the use of synthetic vs. conventional oil in newer vehicles. “Always pay attention to what the manufacturer recommends – for either the kind of oil or the miles between oil changes. Automotive engineers and manufacturers spend thousands of hours and millions of dollars researching what is best for a given vehicle.” Both Davis and Gunder say that ultimately, electric vehicles will become more dominant, which they agree will be easier to maintain. “Just think of the difference between the number of moving parts in an internal combustion engine compared to an electric motor,” Davis said. “We’re in a new generation of automotive ownership.” FBN
OCTOBER 2021 // Flagstaff Business News
@flagstaffbusinessnews
BEST DAY continued from page 15
Enjoy Pregnancy Without Foot Pain
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By Anthony Rosales, DPM, FACFAS
Oh, my aching feet” is a phrase you hear often from pregnant women. But, are sore feet a symptom they just must deal with during pregnancy? The answer is “no.” There are many remedies available to help alleviate foot pain. Women often experience foot pain during pregnancy because of increased weight, foot instability and swelling. In the last five years, I’ve seen an increase in pregnant women with foot pain because more women than ever before are active, even running marathons, during their pregnancies. To help reduce foot pain during pregnancy, follow these guidelines:
PAINFUL, SWOLLEN FEET
Pregnant women often experience throbbing, swollen feet because of excess fluid buildup (edema) in the feet from the weight and position of the baby. To reduce swelling, put feet up whenever possible, stretch legs frequently, wear wide comfortable shoes and don’t cross legs when sitting.
ARCH PAIN
Pain in the arch can be caused by arch fatigue or over pronation (the flattening of the arch). Over pronation causes extreme stress to the ligament (the plantar fascia) that holds up the arch of the foot. The best way to prevent arch pain is to stretch daily in the morning and before and after any exercise, don’t go barefoot and wear supportive, low-heeled shoes.
INGROWN TOENAILS
Excessive stress from tightly-fitting shoes causes painful ingrown toenails. Give your feet a break: Wear wider shoes during the last trimester of pregnancy to avoid ingrown toenails. If you do experience an ingrown toenail, avoid attempting “bathroom surgery.” Repeated cutting of the nail can cause the condition to worsen over time. It is best to seek treatment with a foot and ankle surgeon. It is also not uncommon for women to experience a change in their foot size during pregnancy. A permanent growth in a women’s foot, up to half a size, can occur from the release of the same hormone, relaxin, that allows the pelvis to open to deliver the baby. It makes the ligaments in your feet more flexible, causing feet to spread wider and longer. Pregnancy and pending motherhood should be a joy. If foot pain persists, call my office at 928-864-0602. Conservative treatments such as physical therapy, foot orthotics, supportive shoes and minor toenail procedures can provide relief. FBN If you are suffering from foot or ankle pain, call Dr. Rosales’s office at 928-864-0602 for an assessment. Anthony Rosales DPM, FACFAS, a foot surgeon with offices in Flagstaff and Page, is board certified in foot surgery by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. He is a member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.
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volunteer. Here are three: 1. Volunteering is good for your health. Global Vision International (GVI) says studies show that helping others takes our minds off of our own problems. The GVI website states, “Your stress levels start to decrease, your immune system is strengthened and your overall sense of life satisfaction increases.” A friend of mine reported that she pulled herself out of depression by exiting her house and volunteering at a mental health facility where she listened to others who were suffering. She says that was the moment her healing began. 2. Volunteering is an opportunity to give to a cause you believe in or support something you have a passion for. For vacationing families missing their pets, or hikers just looking for a pal to join them on an outdoor adventure, the Kauai Humane Society has a kennel full of companionship eager to play at the beach, trek through the jungle or hang out under a palm tree through the shelter’s Field Trip program. Late morning every day except Sunday, shelter dogs – from boxers to beagles – leap to attention at the possibility of a walk in the park or a lifetime of love. “They know it’s Field Trip time,” said Elizabeth Claxton, a senior director at the shelter, as she smiled at a lively aisle of pure tail-wagging joy and anticipation. This program is vital to the
mental and physical health of the dogs, she said. But humans as well – some, like the Hopkins family – can find their new forever best friend and family member. “Once Dorothy [the big tan loveable mix] got into the back seat, she immediately cuddled with our youngest son and fell fast asleep,” said mom, Emma. That was it. Dorothy was instantly and permanently part of the family and had a ticket for the flight to her new Concord, California home. 3. Volunteering builds skills and can boost your career. Volunteers come with a wide variety of talents. And it’s likely you’ll learn some skills that you can list later on your résumé. It also can be a great networking opportunity. Relationships happen while you’re lending a sympathetic ear, playing on a beach or walking a dog. Volunteering is good for us, fun for us and can even boost our careers. But what it all comes down to is the moment in which we realize we’ve changed someone’s life – often, our own. For me, Maggie’s wide-eyed exuberance is forever imprinted on my heart. For the Hopkins family, Dorothy’s big heart beats alongside those of their other three dogs as they all snuggle together, just like it was meant to be. FBN Bonnie Stevens is a public relations consultant. She can be reached at bonnie.stevens@ gmail.com.
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BABBITTS BREC continued from page 1
future and what it’s going to be.’” He described how the company brought in a real estate developer to show what 40-acre developments would look like across Babbitt Ranches and the value they would bring to the owners, the Babbitt family, over time. “What was absolutely remarkable, the owners took it to a vote and it was absolutely unanimous not to go that direction,” said Cordasco. “It was a benchmark. What it established was a new mission statement for Babbitt Ranches: Through our efforts of learning and understanding, Babbitt Ranches, a family business and pioneering land company, raises livestock, manages natural resources, promotes science and participates in the broader community in order to join, share and do the very best we know how.”
ARTICULATING A LAND ETHIC
Cordasco said that decision got the owners talking about a land ethic and created the science, research and educational non-profit arm of the company, the Landsward Foundation. “We started to have discussions and conversations about what a land ethic meant to us. Folks like Aldo Leopold and many others were very instructive in guiding some of that ethic, but it got well-seeded in a family that already had it in them from 1886. It got re-established and well articulated.” They also discussed how to apply responsibility, obligation and a sense of accountability to their land ethic. “Of course, that included conservation stewardship and, most importantly, relationships,” he said. The land-ethic focus resulted in the
// A decade of environmental studies followed, which revealed a number of golden eagle sites on the ranches and resulted in the creation of the SP Crater Golden Eagle Conservation Complex for the study and protection of the raptors and their habitat. //
development of The Constitution of Babbitt Ranches, in which the company defined its principles, values and purpose, and Cowboy Essence, a description of character qualities for how the company strives to operate and interact. Cordasco says that defining moment opened doors for Babbitt Ranches to participate in a number of projects with a wide variety of people and organizations. It also led to one of the largest conservation easements in the country, in which a portion of the Cataract Ranch was donated to the county and The Nature Conservancy to be set aside for open space in perpetuity. Other Babbitt Ranches conservation easements followed for research and wildlife and wildland protection. Cordasco also discussed Babbitt Ranches’ involvement in the development of the Coconino County Comprehensive Plan in 2003. “It was a really fresh and inspiring time. We were talking about things that had never really been talked about in a comprehensive plan. It really highlighted the things we’re talking about even today – sensitive lands, wildlife and vegetation, ecological health and soils, sustainability, cultural and historical protection. But what was put into that comprehensive plan that absolutely meant the most to me and hopefully to everybody else was at the very beginning of that comprehensive plan was a land ethic and what that meant to the county. What it did was put Babbitt Ranches and our vision of the future straight up the alley with Coconino County.”
NextEra’s Babbitt Ranch Renewable Energy Center (BREC) will not impact any other activities occurring on Babbitt Ranches, such as raising the Hereford cattle herd or maintaining the American Quarter Horse program. Courtesy photo
ing, no shooting of prey base and the management of recreation impacts in that area during breeding season.
BREC PROJECT
Meanwhile, the BREC project includes 60 wind turbine sites (up to 54 turbines total), with the tallest to be 384 feet high from the ground to the hub of the blades. When the blade is straight up, it stands at 614 feet. BREC also includes 500 to 800 acres of solar panels, three meteorological towers and a 60-megawatt battery storage system. It is expected to create 250 jobs during construction and four to six full-time management jobs through the project’s 20-to-30-year life. “The project will have a capacity of up to 161 megawatts of wind energy and 60 megawatts of solar energy, WIND, SOLAR STUDIES paired with a 60 megawatt, four-hour Cordasco discussed how Babbitt battery energy storage system,” said Ranches purchased and installed an NextEra Spokesperson Matt Eissey. anemometer tower to measure wind speeds at Spiderweb Camp near Gray “Once operational, BREC has the Mountain in 2005, and also conduct- potential to create good-paying jobs and millions in additional revenue for ed solar power evaluations. “The landowners and the local commuBabbitts understood that renewable nity.” energy was headed in our direction, Public concerns have included but they really wanted to learn and traffic on Highway 180 during the understand what it all meant and construction phase and impacts on how it actually fit in with our land the viewshed. Coconino County Prinethic and our constitution for our cipal Planner Bob Short reported that company.” wind turbines will be visible from two In 2010, Babbitt Ranches signed sites – one from the highway and one two agreements with NextEra to explore two locations – one was the area from a section of the Arizona National Scenic Trail, which runs through that has been identified for BREC, Babbitt Ranches, the only stretch that the other was further to the west. transects private land on the entire A decade of environmental studies 800-mile trail. followed, which revealed a number “All of the private property in this of golden eagle sites on the ranches and resulted in the creation of the SP area is owned by Babbitt Ranches,” said Short. “I also wanted to talk Crater Golden Eagle Conservation Complex for the study and protection about project noise. The nearest non-participating property is 4.8 of the raptors and their habitat. miles away so it would not be noticeGOLDEN EAGLE CONSERVATION able to anyone nearby. It might be heard by people walking the Arizona In working with the U.S. Fish and Trail, but otherwise, probably not by Wildlife Service and the Arizona anyone else.” Game and Fish Department, Cordasco said golden eagle conservation efforts on Babbitt Ranches will lead to VOCAL SUPPORT a model that can be applied across the Mechanical engineer and wind country that calls for no lead shootenergy expert Tom Acker voiced his
support. “What I see is a technically sound project. The Babbitt Ranches have not rushed into this project and I think they’ve done a very good job setting it up. They’ve selected NextEra Energy Resources as a partner. NextEra Energy Resources is one of the very best renewable energy development companies in the world.” “My family has been here a very long time as well [as the Babbitts],” said Commissioner Don Walters, “and I don’t know of a better managed operation than the Babbitt Ranches. I’m in awe of how the Babbitts manage their properties. I’m not a huge fan of a 600-foot tower but I understand the economics of it and I understand what the drought’s done to ranching and how difficult that is. It’s a losing proposition and that’s why I’m in awe of how they’re able to do this. I totally support this project.” Commissioner John Ruggles echoed Walters’ sentiments and expressed the need to keep Arizona ranches together and functioning. “It’s a part of our heritage. The idea of seeing this kind of property being broken up into 40-acre ranchettes, I don’t want to see that happen. Renewable energy, that’s a direction we have to move in. You just cannot deny this. Look at the other options out there – I have, very thoroughly, in the past. This is the right way to go and the economics have improved dramatically.” “I will concur with the other comments made by my fellow commissioners about the exemplary and excellent level [of land management] that Babbitt Ranches has done,” said Commission Chair Tammy Ontiveros, noting that she also is part of a long-time Arizona family. “I am familiar with how these ranches have set the standard of…excellence in the care of the land and the conservation of resources.” Eissey called the commission’s decision to approve the project “exhilarating.” He said NextEra, which also operates Perrin Ranch Wind Energy Center to the west, was excited to be back in the county for a second wind
project and to develop the first solar and energy storage projects in the region. “After 10 years of study, siting and development, we couldn’t have sited a more ecologically suitable project,” said Eissey. “NextEra Energy Resources is appreciative of the Coconino County staff, planners and commissioners for their thorough review and unanimous approval and to all who supported this project, especially the Babbitt family.” BREC Project Manager Wardah Abbasi said renewable energy is good for the environment and good for the economy. “BREC will help further the state of Arizona’s clean energy goals,” she said. “Wind and solar energy, at the end of the day, is homegrown. It doesn’t get much more homegrown than electricity generated in your own community to benefit your own community.”
BABBITT VALUES
“When we visit with the developer [NextEra], our constitution, our principles, our values, our land ethic, our Landsward Foundation goals and objectives, our science, our research, our commitment to the landscape, our commitment to monitoring, our commitment to the long-term health of these grasslands, the wildlife, all of these things are actually put into the agreements,” said Cordasco. “Ultimately, this is a temporary use of the land. There will be a generation or a generation after that that will see these lands like we do today and their opportunities to apply a land ethic and the constitution will be wide open for them. And with all of that, we still get to keep on doing everything we do. There is absolutely nothing that changes on Babbitt Ranches because of this development. Where we are tonight is a terrific example of what we’ve been talking about for so long for private landowners and how to keep open space and how to keep all these things tied together.” FBN
OCTOBER 2021 // Flagstaff Business News
@flagstaffbusinessnews
Babbitt Ranches Forges Ahead with Clēnera and SRP on Solar Project
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O Bar Solar is gaining energy with the recent purchase power agreement between renewable resources developer Clēnera, owned by Enlight Renewable Energy, and Arizona utility company Salt River Project (SRP). “Where we are today, as we embark on renewable energy endeavors, is truly inspirational for the Babbitt family,” said Babbitt Ranches President and General Manager Billy Cordasco. “We are talking about what matters most for future generations. And, what we have all worked toward is not just a shift for Babbitt Ranches, but a regional and statewide shift involving landowners, city and county entities, power companies and really all of us as we help Arizona reach its clean energy goals.” The solar panel development proposed for Babbitt Ranches’ land, northwest of Flagstaff and east of Valle, is scheduled to be in operation in 2024 and expected to deliver between 440 and 480 megawatts of renewable energy to SRP customers, enough to serve 80,000 homes, while offsetting 1 billion pounds of carbon dioxide emissions each year. “Clēnera has historically paved the way for renewable energy in the state, and CO Bar Solar is yet another example of progress being made in Arizona’s clean energy sector,” said Clēnera Vice President of Business Development Jared McKee. “Babbitt Ranches has been navigating how to best participate in these renewable energy efforts for some time, especially when it comes to considering future generations,” said Cordasco. “Not only are we talking about the development of renewable energy, we are considering the ripple effect, which includes maintaining open space across Arizona’s landscape, creating conservation programs that support the sustainability of golden eagle populations and other wildlife species and their habitats, learning more about what constitutes a healthy environment, managing for recreational opportunities, and continuing our agricultural traditions of raising Hereford cattle and promoting a strong American Quarter Horse program.” Occupying up to 2,400 acres of private Babbitt Ranches land in Coconino County, CO Bar Solar is one of the largest solar projects being developed in the state and the country. Throughout the 18-month construction timeline, expected to begin in 2023, an estimated 550 construction jobs will be created. The life of the project is projected to be about 35 years. “The CO Bar power plant is an incredible clean energy resource that will support SRP customers and help us take a significant step toward our decarbonization goals,” said SRP General Manager and CEO Mike Hummel. “This direction in renewable energy takes into account all the different focus areas that we have, including maintaining an overall healthy environment and participating in a broad regional perspective – it brings it all together as we further continue to develop strong and healthy relationships with many different groups and individuals,” said Cordasco. “In the end, we are just really inspired to engage our imaginations about what a wonderful future we can help ensure for generations to come. This new frontier in renewable energy is truly bigger than ourselves. It’s about future generations and conservation on a landscape scale.” FBN
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Flagstaff Business News // OCTOBER 2021 flagstaffbusinessnews.com
HERB continued from page 4
were born in Northern California and moved to Arizona about 30 years ago, have been friends with Daly, who is 41, for more than 25 years “We’ve been friends since high school [Horizon High School in Scottsdale],” he said. “Since day one of our business partnership, it’s been a collaborative effort. Doug and I oversee the retail and wholesale components of our business, while Brandon manages the operations at our farm.” By locally sourcing from their own farm, they are able to use fully organic ingredients, control the quality of what is being grown and monitor what is being produced. The dispensary managed to stay open during the entire pandemic, he added, with an initial “uptick in sales” that has “leveled out since.” The variety of products available at cannabis dispensaries has expanded greatly over the past decade or so. According to the new Noble Herb website (nobleherbaz.com), categories now offered for sale include Flower, Pre-Rolls, Vaporizers, Concentrates, Edibles and Tinctures. Noble Herb also is home to Pure Edibles and Everest Concentrates, which were created collectively to deliver elevated edible and concentrated products that are affordable and available throughout Arizona. “It was a key dynamic missing from the market,” Hermansky explained.
“Both products are produced in-house, are sourced from local ingredients, incorporate natural flavors and colors and are tested to guarantee customers a consistent, dependable experience.” The Pure Edibles line regularly outsells other products, he added, with the candy chews and gummies being particularly popular. They are made in small batches and are available in a variety of flavors, as well as low-sugar and gluten-free options. “Our budtenders specialize in customizing each customer experience based on the needs. For example, someone who visits looking to improve their sleep may have different needs than someone who is seeking products for recreational purposes. Our goal is to help them navigate which products work best for them. Conversely, if an experienced customer visits Noble Herb and knows exactly what they want, we’re here to elevate and expedite their shopping experience.” Hermansky sees a bright future for the cannabis industry. “I fully expect people over the age of 21 in all 50 states to have access to marijuana within four to eight years. Cannabis is not the ‘evil drug’ that we were taught to believe for so many years. There are true medical benefits in these products that can enhance people’s lives. I believe the momentum the industry has will only continue to build. It’s our duty as industry leaders to educate.” FBN
BASHAS continued from page 17
then became part of his management team. I learned a ton from Wayne over the years but the one thing I always admired was his style of management. He really is a leader for the people. He empowers you to ask the questions, seek the answers and guides you in building the confidence to do your job and do that job well.” Pressing forward, Jones earned an associate’s degree in business management through a Bashas’ program while working full-time. “With family, work and school, I became really good at time management.” “Wayne is the quintessential grocery store manager: Out on the sales floor, available to customers, thoroughly knowledgeable about store operations and unfailingly polite. I can’t imagine a better representative of the Bashas’ brand. We are grateful to Wayne for his nearly 30 years with us, and hope he continues with us for many years to come,” said Bashas’ Family of Stores President and CEO Edward “Trey” Basha. “That is what is great about Bashas’ Supermarkets. They honestly and genuinely care for their employees. They are fair and take good care of their employees and refer to us as members,” said Jones. “The times I’ve seen Wayne, he’s always smiling with a ‘how you doing’
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smile and his personality is so warm and inviting,” said UniSource Energy Services Executive Assistant Nora Ontiveros. “You just don’t see that in grocery stores anymore.” In his free time, Jones and his wife, Janet, enjoy fishing. He also serves as a deacon at Springhill Baptist Church. Bashas’ Supermarkets has been in Arizona since the early 1900s and has more than 100 stores around the state and two in New Mexico. The grocer’s recent announcement about selling to California-based Rayley’s Holding Company is not expected to change anything, including the Bashas’ name and focus on customer and employee care. “During the pandemic, it showed my family it was time to sell our chain of stores, said Bashas’ President and CEO Edward Basha. “The big corporate stores would beat out the family-owned stores for resources.” No stores are expected to close.
FAVORITE PLACE
Cave Springs Campground in Oak Creek Canyon.
INSPIRED BY
My pastor and long-time friend, Cemie Clayton, for spiritual inspiration and guidance that he’s given me, which has made phenomenal
changes in the way I perceive things in people. Also, my former coworker, Brian Thomas, a former store director, for his incredible work ethic. While undergoing treatments for cancer, he still had the strength and resilience to be at work that night after treatment. He worked the graveyard shift. He did that for over a year. If that’s not inspiration, I don’t know what is.
CHARACTER QUALITY MOST ADMIRED Honesty.
LAST TIME I LAUGHED OUT LOUD We were visiting our daughter in El Cajon, California. I saw her picking up little dishes with leftover food in her bedroom. “What are you doing?’’ I asked. She said her boyfriend needs to learn to pick up his stuff and put them away. That’s the same thing I used to tell her. It’s amazing how we turn into our parents.
GUILTY PLEASURE
Sushi. I didn’t get started on that until 1990 here in Flagstaff when Sakura Sushi Teppan opened. I got hooked. It’s very fresh, decorative and delicious. FBN
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OCTOBER 2021 // Flagstaff Business News
@flagstaffbusinessnews RESTAURANTS continued from page 1
in the hospitality industry as a banquet worker at Little America and as a food runner for the Pinewood Country Club in Munds Park. “Minimum wage was difficult when I first started working, but now they are making great strides to make it a livable wage up in Flagstaff,” added Agee, who now drives to work at her parents’ restaurant in Munds Park, 22 miles south of the City of Flagstaff. The study’s scoring system gave double weight to mean hourly wages in order to spotlight cities where restaurant workers earn more. “Our ranking aims to really home in on areas offering higher than hourly wages, which is another reason Flagstaff is highlighted. There are still a number of states (and cities) that have not adjusted minimum cash wages for tipped employees from the current federal minimum wage for tipped employees of $2.13. Flagstaff (and Arizona) are an exception,” Kristen Klepac, a spokesperson for the study, said. “Flagstaff minimum wage is now at $15 per hour and will go up to $15.50 per hour in January, as a result of a voter-approved initiative in 2016,” explained Regina Salas, elected Flagstaff City Councilmember. However, she added that local restaurants struggle to find a skilled and trained workforce, even with a higher minimum wage. “Last week, at least three local restaurants closed for the day due to lack of staffing,” she said. “Our $15/hour minimum wage is without a doubt one of the reasons we’re coming out on this study,” said Jamie Thousand, owner/operator of Satchmo’s restaurant and Roadside Stove food truck at Mother Road Brewery. Satchmo’s is one of the restaurants that has reduced days of operation because of a limited labor pool. “We’re open Thursdays to Sundays now, but we’re trying to add one or two days per week,” added the restaurant owner. Thousand meets with other Flagstaff restaurateurs affected by a limited labor pool and the rising cost of goods to share ideas and best practices. “We’re always out talking about the next best thing we can do for our crews – unfortunately, it’s not one of the reasons we made this list,” he said. “When you talk about a caring culture, Flagstaff is that place.” One of his colleagues in the restaurant group is John Conley, owner of Salsa Brava Mexican Grill and Fat Olives. Conley is skeptical about the report. “This paints a good picture, but I don’t believe this,” countered Conley, who also serves on the Northern Arizona Lodging, Tourism and Restaurant Association board. Although Flagstaff is known for a higher cost of living, the new report shows that cost of living in the metro area is on par with the national average, stating “the real value of $100 in Flagstaff is $100.70.” “That line disputes the whole report,” said Conley. He could not match the numbers with comparable data from the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce and other cost of living indexes for the Flagstaff metro area. The Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce participates in compiling information for the Council for Community and Economic Research. That research bureau reports the Flagstaff composite cost of living index at 113.5, or 13.5% more than the national average, for the second quarter of 2021. The composite index reflects pricing in six categories: housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, health care and miscellaneous goods and services. The chamber has conducted the pricing survey as a community service for more than 15 years. In another cost-of-living index, bestplaces.net,
shows Flagstaff’s cost of living as 117.0, higher than the overall US index of 100.0. In this study, groceries, utilities, transportation and miscellaneous indexes hover under or near 100, but the housing index weighs in at 165.9. They report that rents within the city are $196 higher than the national average for two-bedroom apartments, $187 higher for three-bedrooms, and $295 higher for four-bedroom apartments. The disparity drops for rental units in outlying areas of Kachina Village, Munds Park and Parks. When Thousand asked about the challenges for Flagstaff area restaurant workers, he responded, “Number one is housing; we just relocated one of our former kitchen managers from Boston. When he first searched rents online, he found that they were comparable to Boston. But in the last four months, Flagstaff rent had gone up $400-$900 from when he first looked online.” “Cost of living is highly variable within metropolitan areas, so while Flagstaff proper may be more expensive, the BEA measurement has found areas within the region that offer prices that are on par with the nation as a whole,” clarified Klepac. The moveBuddha.com study used the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) regional price parities (RPP), which measure the differences in price level across metropolitan areas for one period in time. RPPs are expressed as a percentage of the overall national price level. “An RPP is a weighted average of the price level of goods and services for the average consumer in one geographic region compared to all other regions in the United States,” states the BEA methodology report. They compile RPP from: N Five year rolling average of Consumer Price Index (CPI) data; N Survey data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS); and N Cost of rental housing from American Community Survey (ACS) data from the Census Bureau. The moveBuddha.com study reported that the Flagstaff metro area with a population of 145,101 had a mean hourly wage of $12.59 for restaurant workers and an estimated 3,240 jobs. With a “real value of $100” at $100.70, restaurant workers work 7.94 hours to earn $100, compared to the national average of 10 hours. “What makes Flagstaff great is that there are so many small businesses, and it’s more fulfilling to be part of a small business. In a small business, you care about the people you work with and want them to succeed,” concluded Agee. “In the restaurant industry, we are driven by costs of goods. There’s such a tiny margin in this industry that it’s difficult to pay more [for wages and employee benefits]. Will the public still come in when your pizza is $10 more because you really take care of your people?” asked Thousand, who disclosed that at Satchmo’s, no one makes under $18 an hour. FBN See the full moveBuddha.com report at movebuddha. com/blog/best-cities-restaurant-workers.
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