@7000ft October 2023

BECAUSE A HEALTHY BUSINESS CLIMATE AND A THRIVING COMMUNITY ARE INSEPARABLE

The Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce and Wiseman Aviation present

A FALL FUNDRAISER HANGAR PARTY

Sponsored by:

Warner’s Nursery & Landscape Company, Desert Financial Credit Union Alliance Bank, APS, CORE Construction, Flagstaff Chevrolet, Grand Canyon Railway, Jen Nordstrom Accounting, Unisource Energy Services

Meet us in the Hangar for a fundraiser evening of intrigue and elegance in roaring 20's fashion. Carouse the night away with dancing, live DJ, casino games, photo booth, drinks and gourmet fare provided by Boricua Luna, Grand Canyon Brewery & Distillery, Karma Sushi, Little America, Outback Steakhouse, The McMillan, Pita Jungle, & Wildflower

This event is sure to be the "talk of the town" as you travel back to the most raucous and flashiest era in American History! Enjoy an evening of fabulous food, dancing, and casino gaming in the beautiful setting of the Wiseman Aviation Hangar.

6pm – 9:30pm

Wiseman Aviation Hangar

2650 W Shamrell Blvd. | Flagstaff, AZ 86005

Flagstaff

$75 pre sale | $85 at the door

Fancy or Gatsby attire is encouraged but not required!

CHAMBER

L & W Supply: Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting

Thank you for your leadership.

Flagstaff Young Professionals

Flagstaff Fruit Creations: Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting

The Great Gatsby - A Fall Fundraiser Hangar Party

Flagstaff Young Professionals Adopt-an-Avenue

Pella: Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting

Mariposa Healing with Faith: Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting

2023 Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce Holiday Lights Parade

Saturday, December 9, 2023

2023

Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce

Vora Financial

December 9th

Greater Flagsta Chamber of Commerce

@7000ft is published monthly by the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce with revenue from member dues, advertising and sponsorships. All rights reserved. Reproduction of the whole or any part of the contents of this publication, by any method or purpose whatsoever, without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. Only Chamber members can advertise in @7000ft. To inquire about advertising please contact the Chamber.

Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce

101 W. Route 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001 | (928) 774-4505 info@flagstaffchamber.com | flagstaffchamber.com

CHAMBER LEADERSHIP

OFFICERS

CHAIR: Misti Warner Warner's Nursery & Landscaping Co.

VICE CHAIR: Guillermo Cortes Shephard-Wesnitzer, Inc.

VICE CHAIR: Bonnie Bouschet Flagstaff Mall

TREASURER: Randon Cupp Foothills Bank

FOUNDATION CHAIR

Clay McCauslin Greater Circle Media/ KAFF

DIRECTORS

Brenda Carter APS

Bruce Sobczak SOBO Associates LLC

Cecily Maniaci Toasted Owl

Colleen Brady Arizona Daily Sun

Fred Reese Little America Hotel

Jeff Springborn

Nestlé Purina PetCare Company

Kelly Tulloss Sutcliffe Floral

Michael Horton ALLO Fiber

Palmer Nackard Nackard Companies

Stephen Thompson Glazer Hammond, PLLC

Steven Eiss

Northern Arizona Healthcare

Trent Olson

Flagstaff Nissan Subaru

Tyler Mark Wespac Construction

EX-OFFICIO

Dr. Eric Heiser President, Coconino Community College

Josh Maher Northern Arizona University

CHAMBER NEWS

Flagstaff Historic Signs and Facades Grant announcement

The City of Flagstaff’s Heritage Preservation program is excited to announce an expanded funding opportunity that could help you restore your property while preserving its historic integrity. As of July 1, 2023, The City of Flagstaff adopted a new funding structure for its Historic Signs and Facades Grant. The grant offers two levels of funding on a 50/50 match basis that provides capital to homeowners to assist with rehabilitating their historic buildings. To qualify for the grant, the applicant should:

• Own or lease a property that could be eligible for historic designation and is over 50 years old.

• Be planning a project that is restoring or rehabilitating the historic elements of the property that are visible to the public, such as doors, siding, windows, eaves, etc.

At the highest funding level, the property owner may receive up to $20,000 of matching funds, but they must closely follow the US Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines for Rehabilitation. These standards represent the highest level of compliance with national historic preservation standards. If a property qualifies for this funding level, it may also be eligible for a 20% tax credit from the National Park Service, which further helps with the cost of preserving historic properties.

At the lower funding level, the property owner may receive up to $10,000 in matching funds to restore the historic integrity of the property. This funding only requires that the work proposed move the property closer to its original historic condition, which is more flexible than following the US Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines. For example, at a $10,000 matching project may reverse a previous modification to the property that was historically inappropriate, such as removal of siding on a covered storefront (façade), or accurate replacement of a missing historic feature. They may also address structural or life-safety issues in a compatible manner.

The Historic Signs and Facades grant seeks to invest in

heritage and cultural resources, sustainable community development, and enhancement of the built environment by fostering private investment in significant heritage and cultural resources. The Heritage Preservation program recognizes the challenges that come with protecting the stories, diversity, and rich cultural history of Flagstaff’s architecture, so we are thrilled to provide essential financial support to eligible properties. Let’s work together and safeguard the diverse heritage that identifies Flagstaff’s character. Grant applications are due by noon on the last Wednesday of the month. Please review the grant guidelines prior to submitting an application.

If you think that you may have a property that qualifies for the Historic Signs and Facades Grant and wish to inquire further about the application process, or if you have questions about the City of Flagstaff’s Heritage Preservation program, please contact Mark Reavis, Heritage Preservation Officer, at mark.reavis@flagstaffaz. gov or call at 928-213-2633.

Chamber Releases 2023 Cost of Living Index (COLI) data

The Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce gathers pricing information for a cost-of-living report every year. This survey is compiled by the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER) in order to create the national cost of living index.

According to the cumulative report averaging three quarters in 2023, the Flagstaff composite cost of living index was 114.1% of the national average. The composite index reflects pricing in six categories: housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, health care and miscellaneous goods and services. Please note that the data does not take into account taxes.

To compare the cost of living in participating locations click here

Organization Excellence Workforce Development: Filling the Skills Gap

The Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce Foundation in collaboration with SOBO associates LLC presented the first three in a series of ongoing courses geared toward developing intraorganizational business leadership.

Each two-day course related to a specific attribute of leadership development. The first course "Building High Performance Teams" focused on building skills and confidence to pursue excellence through shared goals, open communication, clear expectations, and a strong sense of accountability among their teams. A key takeaway of the course noted by participants was the ability to identify leadership styles and new insights into methods of motivation and approaching co-workers.

The second in the series of courses, Customer Service Excellence, examined the customer experience of both external and internal customers. Goals of the course included teaching employees the importance of a proactive and personalized approach to customer service

and imparting an understanding and skills in empathy, problem solving, communication, active listening, patience, tenacity, adaptability, and resourcefulness. Participants noted that the collaborative teaching style involving the various organizations represented in the group imparted valuable insights into how other businesses and non-profits all approach the internal dynamics of customer service.

The Chamber Foundation is able to offer these courses on a low or no cost model through securing Federal Incumbent Workforce Training (IWT) grant funds available through the Coconino County Workforce Development Board. This allowed qualified organizations with 50-90% reimbursement for training fees.

With workforce development as a consistent challenge for northern Arizona businesses, the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce recognizes teaching local business leaders the skills of creating strong workplace culture as a key value in its mission. Stay tuned for future training courses.

CHAMBER MEMBER EVENTS

CREATE + CONNECT

Join us to Create + Connect! Every Wednesday, Threaded Together welcomes the community to our studio for "open sewing." Under the guidance of Threaded Together Sewists, you can use our sewing machines, tools, and studio space to bring your creative vision to life (whether that's making something new, or mending something old). Beginners and community members of all skill levels are welcome! Meet other makers share skills, and build community! Adult Session: Wednesdays 5:30-7:30 pm Teen/Young Adult Session: Thursday 3:00-5:00 pm This program is designed to make sewing and fiber arts more accessible for everyone. Create + Connect is funded by donations and open to all, with the support of participants and Arizona Community Foundation.

Wednesday, October 11 3:00pm – 4:00pm

Thursday, October 12 3:00pm – 4:00pm (ongoing weekly)

Easton Valley Collection Center

3100 N Fort Valley Rd

Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Learn more

EASTON COLLECTION CENTER TOUR

Join MNA docents for a behind-the-scenes tour of the Museum of Northern Arizona’s collections inside the Platinum LEED certified, architectural masterpiece Easton Collection Center. Home to more than 800,000 objects, the ECC tour will enhance visitors’ understanding of the Native cultures of the Colorado Plateau and MNA’s role in research and conservation.

Friday, October 13

3:00pm – 4:00pm

Easton Valley Collection Center

3100 N Fort Valley Rd

Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Learn more

FIRST FRIDAY ARTWALK WITH SILVER UNEARTHED

Join us in welcoming Christina Laufer / Silver Unearthed Jewelry for this special jewelry Pop Up. Christina has been making

jewelry for over 14 years and her work has been present in the Flagstaff community since 2014. Her inspiration comes from shapes formed in nature and architecture. She has completed courses in jewelry and silversmithing and has a degree in fine arts from ASU. The artist uses simple yet elegant forms to accentuate the natural beauty of the wearer while incorporating traditional stamping and other metalsmithing techniques. The artist’s materials consist of sterling silver and gemstones that include turquoise found in Arizona.

Friday, October 13

5:00pm – 8:00pm

Mountain Sports Flagstaff

24 N San Francisco St Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Learn more

WINE EDUCATION CLASS

Have you ever looked at the wine list at your favorite restaurant and felt overwhelmed or stood in the wine aisle at the grocery store feeling adventurous but not sure what to try? We get it, wine can be overwhelming. Oeno is here to help. Join Flagstaff local Sommelier and Beverage expert Tyler Mcbride every Sunday for a lesson on wine topics varying from grapes and style to the regions of the world. Be ready to explore the history of wine, how it’s made and how you can get the most our of it, while tasting some fantastic wines, and getting tips on how to pick a wine that appeals to your palate and pairs deliciously with your plate.

Sunday, October 15 (ongoing each Sunday)

3:00pm – 4:00pm

Oeno Wine Lounge

22 E Birch St Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Learn more

CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP

Northland Hospice & Palliative Care is offering a free Caregiving Support group for caregivers. Caregiving can be one of the most difficult tasks a person may ever experience. As a caregiver you provide assistance to your loved one who are

in need of help in order to maintain an optimal level of quality of life. Here, we recognize your strength and compassion.

Monday, October 16

Friday, November 10

12:00pm – 1:00pm

Northland Hospice & Palliative Care

425 N Switzer Canyon Dr Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Learn more

PARANORMAL PRESENTATION WITH PHOENIX ARIZONA PARANORMAL SOCIETY @ THE MEAD HALL

Join us from 7:30-9:30pm as we host the Phoenix Arizona Paranormal Society for a spooky season presentation! They will be exhibiting audio and video footage, stories and more about their years of experience investigating and documenting the paranormal. They might even have a really cool raffle giveaway too! This will be a free to the public presentation but please bring a few bucks to help them with travel and equipment expenses! 21+

Tuesday, October 24

7:30pm – 9:30pm

Drinking Horn Meadery 108 E Route 66 Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Learn more

FANTASTIQUE! ORTIZ, LISZT, AND BERLIOZ

An impressively vivid evening of musical magic - perfect for spooky season! Hector Berlioz’ Symphonie Fantastique paints a picture of a composer’s wild imagination, consumed with love for a woman he has never met. Our concert will bring this incredible story to life with captivating excerpts and descriptions, immersing you in 1830s Paris. Then, Flagstaff’s own Silvan Negrutiu performs Franz Liszt’s bombastic Totentanz. Finally, you’ll also discover Mexican composer Gabriela Ortiz’s Kauyumari, based on Native Mexicans’ peyote-fueled interactions with the blue deer spiritual guide that helps them communicate with their ancestors.

Friday, October 27

CHAMBER MEMBER EVENTS

7:30pm – 9:00pm

Ardrey Auditorium at NAU

1115 Knoles Dr Flagstaff, AZ 86004

Learn more

TAROT

CARD

& RUNE READINGS

Calling all seekers of the mystical and lovers of the Norse realm! Join us every last Sunday of the month at the enchanting Mead Hall for an unforgettable Tarot Card Reading event with the incredible Ashley Null! Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of intrigue as you sip on delicious mead and let the cards unveil secrets from past, present, and future. Discover why a Tarot Card Reading at the Mead Hall is the perfect night out with friends or a unique and exciting date. Let the ancient art of divination guide you on a journey of self-discovery, uncovering hidden truths and illuminating new paths. See you there, fellow wanderers! equipment expenses!

21+

Sunday, October 29

5:00pm – 8:00pm

Drinking Horn Meadery

108 E Route 66 Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Learn more

MOUNTAIN SPORTS 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

It's time to gather the decades of employees, community partners and favorite longtime customers that have made Mountain Sports a success for these 50 years. Please join us Friday, November 3rd to gather, share stories, raise money and awareness for our local 1% for the Planet environmental partners and to CHEERS to Mark and Bruce for creating this awesome company. The evening will include a rad raffle, drink specials, tabling with our environmental partners, photo booth, food trucks, slideshow of images from 50 years and more.

Friday, November 3 6:30pm – 9:30pm

The Orpheum Theater

15 W Aspen Ave

Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Learn more

TUBA CITY HUMANE SOCIETY ADOPTION EVENT AT FLAGSTAFF MALL

From 10:30am-12:30pm on the first Saturday of the month, meet adoptable dogs and their fosters in Flagstaff Mall Center Court. You can meet, play, and adopt your next perfect companion!

Saturday, November 4 10:30am – 12:30pm

Flagstaff Mall

4650 US-89

Flagstaff, AZ 86004

Learn more

MORE THAN A MEAL

This panel discussion will focus on the appropriation of Indigenous crops and foods and the impacts of colonization on food sovereignty and Indigenous foodways, as well as spotlight current trends in Indigenous foodways. This discussion will be moderated by Dr. Kelley Hays-Gilpin, the Edward Bridge Danson, Jr. Chair of Anthropology at the Museum of Northern Arizona and also Professor of Anthropology at Northern Arizona University Panelists: Chef Brett Vibber, Chef Jaren Bates, Andi Murphy This panel discussion is the second in a series of three being sponsored by the Museum of Northern Arizona, the Sedona Arts Center, and the Arizona Humanities. The talk is free with museum admission.

Sunday, November 5 2:00pm – 3:00pm

Museum of Northern Arizona 3101 N Fort Valley Rd

Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Learn more

EASTON COLLECTION CENTER TOUR

Join MNA docents for a behind-the-scenes tour of the Museum of Northern Arizona’s collections inside the Platinum LEED certified, architectural masterpiece Easton Collection Center. Home to more than 800,000 objects, the ECC tour will enhance visitors’ understanding of the Native

cultures of the Colorado Plateau and MNA’s role in research and conservation. 3:00 –4:00 PM.

Friday, November 10

3:00pm – 4:00pm

Easton Collection Center

3100 Fort Valley Rd

Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Learn more

Would you like to broadcast your event to the community? Members of the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce can post events on flagstaffchamber.com. Posted events will be included in @7000ft, and the Chamber's bi-monthly newsletter. Download a copy of the PDF below for instructions on how to get started. Please reach out to info@ flagstaffchamber with questions.

Download PDF

Foothills Bank named a “Top Companies to Work for in Arizona”, Ranking #1 in midsize companies

PHOENIX, AZ (August 24, 2023) – Arizona Capitol Times, Best Companies Group and BestCompaniesAZ announced that Foothills Bank, a Division of Glacier Bank, has earned a spot on the 11th annual list of 2023 Top Companies to Work for in Arizona. Company rankings were announced at the virtual event on August. 22, 2023, where Foothills Bank earned the #1 ranking in midsized companies. The rankings will be published by Arizona Capitol Times on August 25th, 2023.

This highly selective list is the result of anonymous and comprehensive employee surveys measuring culture, work environment, leadership, and employee pride and satisfaction, combined with rigorous evaluations of workplace practices, policies, perks, and demographics.

“This year’s Top Companies were selected based on the results of a very high favorable employee survey scores averaging 90% overall survey results and an impressive 92% overall employee engagement. This level of performance for Arizona companies is about three times the national average when compared to Gallup’s recent reporting of US engagement at about one-third favorable,” says Jaime Sepeda, EVP of Best Companies Group. “These winners should be very proud of their Top Companies status for this presents a powerful opportunity to attract and retain the very best talent.”

“We are proud to be recognized, for a third year in a row, as one of Arizona’s “Top Companies to Work for” and to rank #1 for midsized companies”, said Brian M. Riley, President & CEO of Foothills Bank. "Our ability to attract and retain top talent directly contributes to the Foothills Bank’s unique family-centric, organizational culture. We take great pride in the fact that the experiences and feedback of our employees are the basis of this honor and recognition. I’d like to personally thank all the Foothills Bank team for their role in this prestigious designation. The continued trust and dedication of these banking professionals drives our relentless pursuit of excellence and community impact.”

Foothills Bank is a Division of Glacier Bank. Member FDIC. For more details visit www.foothillsbank.com or www.TopCompaniesArizona.com.

Flagstaff Family Food Center Volunteer Opportunities

Although September is Hunger Action Month, we always need to keep our food banks in our minds for those suffering in colder weather and while approaching the holidays. The Flagstaff Family Food Center provides free meals to struggling members of the community as well as help with literacy, homework and social skills to children from at-need families. Flagstaff Family Food Center has volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups.

Group Opportunities:

• Sandwich Making: Groups make sandwiches for our to-go lunch service and community non-profits. This event is competitive and lively!

• Dinner Service: Groups serve dinner to the Flagstaff community. Dinner is served to-go and in-house. This event is impactful and inspiring!

• Food Box Distribution: Provide food boxes to families at our outdoor, drive-thru distribution! This is a "no-contact" distribution. Volunteers load carts with groceries and place food into cars.

• Produce Box Packing: Pack boxes with healthy produce for our food distributions! Requires standing during the entire shift. Great activity for people looking for an active, fast-moving event!

• Food Bag Building: Prepare bags with a variety of shelf stable foods for families in need. These bags go out through our distribution program to roughly 150 families per day!

• Food Prep: Prepare Healthy meals at our kitchen! Duties include chopping produce, assembling salads, making sandwiches, and more. Great event for improving you kitchen skills!

• Mobile Distribution: Join us at one of our eight mobile distribution sites! Volunteers help intake client information, load groceries into cars and fill grocery boxes. Lively, fast-paced event!

• Food Drives: Is your team looking to do something out of your space? Consider hosting a food drive! Boxes with high-need food labels can be picked up from our warehouse. From there, advertise to your community and we can pick up the food from you!

Warehouse Opportunities

• Food Box Distribution: With the help of volunteers, we are able to give out groceries to over 200 families per day! Volunteer roles include: load food into cars, controlling traffic, packing food into boxes and writing down client information. Our volunteer events are great for team building, families, individuals and students! Volunteer max: 6 people

• Produce Box Packing: Pack boxes with healthy produce for our food distributions! Volunteer roles include: packing produce boxes, assisting staff to build pallets & building boxes. This event is great for team building, families, individuals and students! Volunteer max: 7 people

• Food Bag Building: Prepare bags with a variety of shelf-stable foods for families in need. These bags go out though our distribution program to roughly 150 families per day! Volunteer max: 7 people

The Flagstaff Family Food Center gives hope to local families by providing hunger relief and children’s literacy programs. For over 30 years, we have rescued food from local sources, coordinated incredible volunteers to prepare, serve and distribute food, and maintained a safe community gathering place for sharing meals and encouraging a love of reading. Through our various food programs, we provide thousands of meals daily throughout northern Arizona. When you give to the Flagstaff Family Food Center, your contributions stay local as we work together to feed our neighbors in need.

Please contact the Family Food Center at 928-890-8386 or at volunteer@hotfood.org for more information.

Flagstaff Family Food Center

3805 E. Huntington Dr. Flagstaff AZ 86004 https://hotfood.org/

CHAMBER BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Unleash the Potential of New Managers with Leadership Development

Making the transition from being one of the team to being the boss can be a challenge, and many managers are not sure where to start. As your business grows, it’s normal for some leaders to feel stretched outside their comfort zone. But you don’t want to leave them there. Help new leaders find success, retain your best employees, and develop a positive workplace culture when you emphasize and train around key leadership traits.

A Willingness to Learn

Often new leaders get promoted because they excel technically in their field. However, as managers, the focus shifts from personal performance to team performance. And this change requires leaders to learn the roles of everyone on the team and how they all fit together. New leaders who think they already know everything miss a vital learning opportunity. According to Harvard Business Review, “Managers often fail in their new role, at least initially, because they come to it with misconceptions or myths about what it means to be a boss.” Employees will have more respect for managers who approach them both as a learner and a leader.

Boost Your Communication Skills

A good boss needs to have communication skills that go beyond those of their team members. Clearly delivering ideas and instructions requires written and oral communication skills that may be beyond new managers incoming skill level. It may surprise some leaders that one of their most important communication skills is actually listening so that employees feel heard. Insight Global, an international staffing firm, recommends prioritizing listening, along with these communication essentials:

• Be transparent and establish trust by sharing information on time, with clear expectations.

• Repeat messages that are important to ensure understanding.

• Set clear calls to action with instructions on what,

when, and why tasks need to be done.

• Make yourself available for collaboration and ideas.

• Think about the future when communicating to have mutually beneficial conversations.

Review Your Relationships

As employees become leaders, it’s natural for their professional relationships to change. Projecting authority can be challenging when managers have friendly and relaxed relationships with team members. The transition requires some delicacy, and new leaders certainly want to avoid coming on too strong to establish authority. One group of researchers set out to discover the best ways to manage people who are also friends. After surveying 200 male and 200 female first-time managers across 17 countries, they identified these best practices.

• Acknowledge the power shift in relationships sooner rather than later.

• Be honest and open with friends who become direct reports.

• Ensure fairness by treating everyone equally, extending invitations for lunch, etc.

• Don't let emotions get in the way when making tough decisions; use objective data to treat everyone fairly.

• Manage how much information is shared on social media to maintain credibility and respect boundaries.

The Bottom Line

Becoming a successful boss and leader takes practice, but new leaders can develop these skills with the right expectations. Communication, listening, and creating a positive workplace are all important considerations for a new leader. Good leadership always begins with respect for your team members’ perspectives, values, and needs. By taking these principles into account each day and striving towards self-improvement, new leaders will find their hard work and dedication rewarded.

Federal Government Avoids Shut Down & Causes Republican Revolt Against Speaker McCarthy

How we got here and where we are headed

By Joe Galli, Senior Advisor for Public Policy, Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce

The U.S. Congress could not come to terms with a federal spending package to fully fund the U.S. government in the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2023, and thus, the U.S. government was poised to shut down non-essential services at midnight Saturday, September 30.

A shutdown was narrowly avoided when Speaker of the House, Kevin McCarthy introduced a “clean” continuing resolution or “CR” late Saturday afternoon which quickly passed the House and then Senate and was signed by President Biden before the midnight deadline. The CR funds federal government agencies at 2023 levels for the next 45 days. A “clean” CR is one noted for merely funding agencies at current levels without the add-on of politically charged items including specific aid to Ukraine (Dem favored) or additional funding for the southern border (GOP favored).

In recent weeks and days both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate worked on federal appropriations to fund the government. The U.S. Senate passed a continuing resolution (CR) to keep the government funded at current levels, but it included additional financial support for the war in Ukraine, which Republican U.S. House members opposed making the Senate CR impossible to pass in the U.S. House of Representatives. House Speaker McCarthy countered with a CR including strict border protections and with overall spending reductions, but no Ukraine aid, and that measure failed on the House floor the last Friday in September.

GOP U.S. House members want reduced federal spending given the country’s $33T debt and rising interest payments on the debt due to inflation and higher interest rates, and want increased funding for the U.S. Border Patrol increasing security measures at the nation’s southern border. Democrats want increased funding for Ukraine to support the ongoing war, which Republicans oppose. House and Senate members of both parties are at a stalemate on these issues, and thus were unable to pass FY2024 appropriations fully funding federal agencies.

The U.S. government has been shut down 14 times since 1980 with the two longest shutdowns occurring in December 1995 (President Clinton) for 21 days, and December 2018 (President Trump) for 34 days. The other dozen time the government was shut down on average of just a few days before a spending agreement was reached.

When the government shuts down all “non-essential” federal agencies and services close their doors resulting in thousands of federal workers being furloughed without pay. Typically impacted non-essential federal agencies include the Food & Drug Administration, OSHA, National Parks, FEMA and departments overseeing student loan applications and payments, food stamp benefits and Head Start. These furloughed workers will receive back pay when the U.S. Congress and President

reach a spending agreement and the federal government resumes operations.

“Essential” workers include various national security agencies and the Federal Aviation Administration which will keep employees working without pay.

The greatest initial impact of a shutdown to the northern Arizona economy would be the closure of Grand Canyon National Park. In an email titled “Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: September 25-29” sent Thursday, September 28, Park Superintendent Ed Keable addressed the shutdown noting that if an agreement to provide appropriations to federal agencies was not reached by Sunday “we will begin to significantly reduce operations of the federal government.”

During the 2018-19 federal government shutdown, then Arizona Governor, Doug Ducey, kept the park open by providing state funds to GCNP. It is anticipate current Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs will take the same action. The federal government would remain closed indefinitely until both sides in Washington, D.C. can reach an agreement on funding the federal government. This result has been pushed back 45 days until the middle of November giving Republicans and Democrats more time to resolve differences on the key issues and jointly pass funding bills sending them to the President’s desk for signatures.

Over the last several years, the U.S. Congress has agreed to funding federal agencies with omnibus spending bills, or bills that encapsulate all federal agencies. Upon taking the Speaker’s gavel in January 2023 after Republicans gained a majority in the U.S. House in the 2022 election, Speaker McCarthy vowed to bring forward 12 separate spending bills, one for each department of government, and send each of the 12 bills to the Senate. This promise was made to appease several Republicans in the new House GOP majority. McCarthy successfully navigated 4 of 5 appropriations bills through passage in the House in September, but they are not likely to be heard in the U.S. Senate given spending reductions included in each appropriations bill.

If the House is to send the Senate 12 total approps bills before the current continuing resolution expires in mid-November, they will have a lot of work to do in the next 45 days. This work will come on the heels of a revolt against now-former Speaker McCarthy in the Republican caucus. On the first Tuesday in October, Congressman Matt Gaetz (FL - R) filed a “motion to vacate” the Speakership, and after an hour of debate, 8 Republicans voted with the entire Democrat caucus in the House of Representatives to force Kevin McCarthy out of the Speaker’s office. The Republicans who voted to oust Speaker McCarthy are upset a “clean” CR passed the House to keep the government funded, and accused McCarthy of violating promises to pass all 12 appropriations bills in time to fund the government’s next fiscal year (FY2024).

Next up for Washington, D.C. will be a floor vote on a new Speaker of the House, then they will quickly have to turn their attention back to passing a government funding bill(s), sending them to the U.S. Senate before the current CR expires mid-November.

The state of divided government remains tumultuous in Washington, D.C., and the uncertainty of federal agency funding and potential future government shutdowns keeps the business landscape for the immediate future unpredictable.

Vince Sherry, Owner Run Flagstaff & Shoebox

Run Flagstaff 204 E Route 66 | Flagstaff AZ, 86001 | http://www.runflagstaff.com

Flagstaff Shoebox 204 E Route 66 | Flagstaff AZ, 86001

Q: How did you come to be in this profession?

Vince: I grew up running track and cross country so my summer job of choice was always a shoe store. I worked at various shops in New York and North Carolina to help pay for rent and groceries over the summer.

Q: How long have you been in practice?

Vince: I was 16 when I got my first job at a shop in my hometown. So, it’s been 26 years.

Q: Where do you see the biggest growth potential for your practice?

Vince: Run Flagstaff has been around for 18 years now so that shop is well established. We had the honor of placing amongst the top 50 running stores in the nation this year so it is likely we are close to reaching our potential... We opened

Flagstaff Shoebox in early August of this year. We carry a wider variety of footwear at Shoebox, including light hike, lifestyle, pickleball, service and kid’s shoes. The future of our growth is at Flagstaff Shoebox.

Q: What has been your biggest workplace thrill or accomplishment?

Vince: Run Flagstaff placing top 50 was a big accomplishment for us. But in my heart, hosting and directing the Team Run Flagstaff 4th of July Downtown Mile is the most special thing we do.

Q: How do your services enrich the quality of life for your customers or the community?

Vince: We’re constantly stiving to encourage community members to get out and enjoy this magical place we live. Whether it’s supplying footwear, timing local races or producing our own our goal is to get people motivated to get out and more.

Q: What’s worse to you than failure?

Vince: It is cliché to say but being too afraid to try is worse than failure. Small business is a risky endeavor. The likelihood of failure is ever-present. I’ve heard many great ideas get shelved because the perceived risk was greater than the desire to see it through. Fear is crippling. Failure is inevitable but it can be learned from and overcome.

Q: From whom do you seek business advice?

Vince: My partners, first and foremost. Sometimes we reach out to other shop owners, former employers in the industry and peers in the Flagstaff community.

Q: What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your profession?

Vince: Before you get started, make sure you love what you’re doing. And not just the toplevel details but all the little things. The small details are often the difference between success and failure. If you start out loving it, you’ll likely survive when it gets really hard. After that, be prepared for it to take longer than you thought, just in case, because it usually does.

Q: What inspires you?

Vince: Most recently, people who are relentless, people who are thoughtful and people who are kind. I know of a few people who are all those things at the same time. That is an extremely rare combination. But any single

one of those attributes seem well worth the pursuit.

Q: What about Flagstaff makes it the best place for you to live?

Vince: The community. And also all the outdoor stuff we all love about this place.

Q: To what do you attribute your business success?

Vince: My partners Sarah Sherry and Nick Arciniaga and our long time manager, Shelly Breunig. They bring skills and talents to the business that I don’t possess. To our staff both past and present. We’re very fortunate that intelligent, thoughtful, hardworking people like to work at running stores. To this community for having patience with us during our early years. The shop wasn’t that great back then. Otherwise, I would attribute our success to passion for what we do, support from friends and family, hard work and good fortune in regards to timing.

Q: What is more important for you today than 10 years ago?

Vince: My time.

Q: My number one rule when striving to be greater is…

Vince: Stay focused. In 10 years, I hope to be...

Content but I’m not optimistic.

CHAMBER MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Mountain Sports: A Heart for Outdoor Adventure, a Conscience for Wild Spaces, a Legacy for Social Responsibility

by Bonnie Stevens , PR Consultant

As Lisa Lamberson sets off toward Schultz Creek with her husband, Ben Shaffer and their son, Jack, she is reminded of how fortunate they are to be part of a family business that celebrates outdoor adventure, builds community and supports local conservation efforts.

The specialty outdoor retail shop is hosting a community event, “Mountain Sports’ 50th  Anniversary – A Zero Waste Celebration,” 6:30-9:30 p.m., Friday, Nov. 3, at the Orpheum Theater. Lisa, the second-generation owner, is thrilled about all that Mountain Sports Flagstaff has achieved and is enthusiastic about its future, including the family business’s continued evolution to a mission-driven corporation.

“I am so proud of what my parents, Mark and Rosie Lamberson and Uncle Bruce have accomplished. And now we believe we can use the power of the business for a higher purpose, for social good,” she said.

Two Hippy Kids Who Loved to Ski.

Mark and Bruce Lamberson opened the first Mountain Sports shop in Casper, Wyoming in 1973.

“We were two hippy kids who loved to ski,” said Bruce. Mark, age 22 at the time and Bruce, 20, wanted to run their own business and live their passion. The goal was to make $100 a week each and have time for their favorite sports. With a $20,000 loan from a close family friend, they opened Mountain Sports with 100 puffy jackets in four sizes and three colors.

“Nobody had ever seen these before. And they just sold like, boom!” said Bruce, who still owns and operates the Casper store. “Business was really simple back then. We were fearless, probably naïve and full of energy. “We were passionate outdoor enthusiasts ourselves,”

said Mark. “We first had a ski shop and then camping and backpacking were becoming new outdoor sports in the ‘70s. We were early adopters of all these things – water skiing, windsurfing, mountain biking, snowboarding – we’d try them out, buy the gear and our excitement about the next new sport would lead to other people wanting to do it, too.”

Soon, the shop became the source for all things alpine skiing and the place to go to find out about the next great outdoor adventure activity before it hit mainstream America. “We had a tiger by the tail,” said Mark. “From the very beginning, we had tapped into something that was taking off. Our business grew very quickly over the first seven or eight years and we realized we were outgrowing the Casper market and wanted to expand.”

A friend suggested they check out the mountain town of Flagstaff. “Rosie and I jumped in with both feet,” said Mark. “Like many people, we moved to Flagstaff for the lifestyle It’s what unites us all.”

Discovering Flagstaff, Building Community

Lisa was just 3 years old when her family came to Flagstaff. Her parents opened Mountain Sports in the Greentree Shopping Center on south Milton Road in late summer 1980. It was here that Mountain Sports began its strong partnership with outdoor apparel company Patagonia as well as with local conservation and environmental education non-profit organizations.

“I remember walking Mark and Rosie’s kids, Bret and Lisa, to school in the morning and reading them stories at night,” said Ric Hatch, a retired Patagonia sales representative, who quickly became part of the family. “They are really good people and we were able to do a lot of wonderful things together.”

Hatch would bring Patagonia overstock apparel to Flagstaff for one-day sales at Mountain Sports to benefit local Flagstaff nonprofit organizations. Grand Canyon Trust was the first to receive a portion of the proceeds.

“We had the whole parking

lot on the side of the store to use,” said Grand Canyon Trust Executive Support Director Darcy Allen. “It was great exposure for us. The family made these events really fun and I feel lucky to have known them. The town is lucky to have them as significant partners, helping to make this a wonderful community.”

Growing Up with the Outdoors

Skiing continued to be an important part of their life. Lisa and Bret were involved in the Flagstaff Alpine Ski Team and Junior Olympics. Mark officiated races at the Olympic and World Class level and coached national champions. “The outdoors was so important to all of us and being part of Flagstaff provided such a wonderful sense of community,” said Rosie.

“We were hardwired as kids to love the outdoors, to live for it, to appreciate it. And there wasn’t any shortage of good gear,” said Bret Lamberson, a realtor with Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty in Flagstaff.

“We grew up in a family and a business that was super fun as kids. Christmas at our house was pretty spectacular – always with new gear, which I’ve come to realize is very unique. But it gave us the opportunity to get outdoors and fall in love with wild places,” said Lisa. “That planted the seeds of my passion to want to build on our commitment to the environment and ethos for conservation.”

Creating Jobs, Inspiring Careers

At one time, Mountain Sports had three stores in Arizona, two in Flagstaff and one in Prescott. In the early 2000s, the Flagstaff business narrowed its focus to primarily an outdoor apparel store, focusing on Patagonia clothing in the historic downtown district. Through the years, Mountain Sports has hired hundreds of employees, providing many college students with their first professional job.

“It was pretty cool to be nurtured by Mark and Rosie who recognized what your potential might be,” said Sarah Morton, who continued in the outdoor recreation industry and opened Clear Water Outdoor in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.

“The experience gave me a passion I didn’t know I had about connecting products with the outdoors and getting people into nature.”

“We owe so much of our success to the incredible employees that we have had as a part of ‘our family’ over these many 50 years,” said Lisa. “Many have gone

on to continue to work in the outdoor industry as river runners and backcountry guides, shop owners in their own right and even as lobbyists and advocates for outdoor recreation in Washignton, D.C.”

A Commitment to the Future

Since 1980, Mountain Sports Flagstaff has donated more than $250,000 to local conservation and environmental education nonprofit partners such as Grand Canyon Youth, The Arboretum at Flagstaff, Camp Colton and the Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition. “Without our loyal, longtime customer support, none of that giving would be possible.”

And, because of its many efforts in environmental stewardship, Mountain Sports has been awarded the Green Business Certification from the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce.

Lisa says the tradition of having a positive impact on the world will carry into the future with perhaps a new kind of business model.

“With Patagonia as our inspiration for thinking unconventionally about business, we are exploring the business structure of a Benefit Corporation or B Corp to include making a positive impact on society in our company bylaws. I want to transition to this newer corporate model that commits to a higher standard of purpose, accountability and transparency while considering our workers, the community, the environment as well as the shareholders,” she said. “That feels like a natural match for me as next steps for Mountain Sports. I look forward to taking the time to do the B Corp assessment and being certified as a Benefit Corporation in 2024, which I believe would be the first one in Flagstaff.”

In the meantime, Lisa is putting the finishing touches on the “Mountain Sports’ 50th  Anniversary – A Zero Waste Celebration,” in partnership with Restoration Soils and The Azulita Project. The community event will gather past and present employees and 1% for the Planet environmental partners to share stories and tales of a half century of Mountain Sports. They will also be screening the Patagonia film, “Mountain of Storms” and have minor Worn Wear repairs available for broken zippers and torn jackets. For more information, visit MountainSportsFlagstaff.com Hear more from Lisa Lamberson on Zonie Living, watch now at https://starworldwidenetworks.com/episodes/mountain-sportscelebrates-50-years-of-family-business-outdoor-adventurecommunity-building-video

NATIONAL MANUFACTURING MONTH

October is National Manufacturing Month and the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce is proud to pay tribute to the local makers in our community. Our manufacturers collectively create nearly 4,500 high-paying jobs in the northern Arizona region, making it a cornerstone of the economic sector. Businesses here focus on improving aircraft, satellite communications, medical outcomes, electric vehicles, pet health, outdoor adventures, craft beer and even ice cream cones. These innovative, world-class companies align with the community's quality-of-life values and goals with environmentally sustainable practices and highwage jobs.

Our manufacturers are the backbone of northern Arizona's economy, so please join us in recognizing their contributions to both the community and the innovative products that are born right here in Flagstaff.

Canyon Coolers

Canyon Coolers has been making top-of-the-line coolers since 2010. Flagstaff, Arizona is the jumping-off point for Grand Canyon river trips, and with some trips running as long as 24 days and with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit, it’s the ultimate test of a keeping perishables cold. Canyon Coolers products were built for the job and have passed the test again and again with flying colors. But keeping stuff cold is pointless if a cooler can’t take a beating. Canyon Coolers products are made to endure and they back it up with a lifetime no-fault, nohassle warranty. Flagstaff is proud to have a small manufacturer like Canyon Coolers that consistently outranks the giants of the industry.

As a company that does business with the outdoor community and that cares about their local natural environment, Canyon Coolers

partners with the Arizona Game and Fish Department to help wildlife that are suffering due to the prolonged drought. The Send Water to Wildlife Program partners businesses with the Game and Fish Department to help maintain over 3000 wildlife waters, a task that requires over a 1 million per year. For an entire month, Canyon Coolers donated 15% of the profits made on their Outfitter 125 and 75 quart hardcovers and all drinking ware to the Send Water Program.

Electrifying Torque Machines

In 2007, Electric Torque Machine started integrating their unique technology across a broad variety of projects and applications. ETM’s technology was initially used in high volume, low speed industrial fans, where it brought an industryfirst, direct drive technology to the market. It was obvious that the competitive advantages of this technology were an especially great fit for many high duty cycle industrial applications. As a result, their served markets are expanding further into areas like mobility, material handling and pumps.

Since 2007, they’ve produced thousands of motors, clocked millions of cycle hours, and saved millions in kilowatt hours of energy. In 2018, a Graco engineer was reading a trade journal, and saw an advertisement for ETM and its Transverse Flux Technology. Being the curious type, he called the company, scheduled a conversation, and ultimately challenged ETM to demonstrate the technology with a small prototype. That demonstration started an innovation partnership, and that partnership quickly grew into something even greater: in 2020, Graco acquired ETM.

The Graco acquisition has given ETM the backing of an international manufacturing and engineering powerhouse, with 3,700 employees, over $1.6 billion in sales (2020), and a market valuation of more than $13 billion (at 11/17/21). Graco consistently invests in product innovations, engineering, and operational excellence to drive long term growth and value creation. Graco’s investment in ETM is electrifying Graco’s future and reinforcing their commitment to deliver the highest quality products with leading technology.

Historic Brewing Company

Historic Brewing Co. started in 2013 in Flagstaff with the purpose of bringing an unparalleled experience to the market. Despite a limited knowledge of the beer industry, founders the Kennelly family found a home amongst the remnants of the Mogollon Brewing Co., in Flagstaff’s east side.

Historic hired brewmaster Ryan Burac and apprentice Zack Stoll to create their line of beers. They initially rolled out two mainstays, the Piehole Porter and their hopped-up pilsner, Everyday Special. Throughout this period the company quickly expanded their operation and in 2015 demand for their product surged and the Kennelly family expanded their brewhouses to downtown Williams with Historic Barrel + Bottle House. At the same time they filled the bar space of three other locations including the Grand Canyon Wine Co., Staion 66 Italian Bistro and Canyonlands at Bearizona. In 2019 Historic began canning operations and now has state-wide distribution. Their beers can also be found on tap in several bars across northern Arizona.

In stride with Historic’s success, the company gives back by doing community brews for organizations and non-profits to help raise money and spread awareness for causes. Since 2018 Historic has had a collaborative with Grand Canyon Conservancy for which they ran a five beer series to help increase awareness for the Grand Canyon community. Ten percent of keg sales on GCC themed beers go towards the Conservancy’s efforts.

IML Containers

Started in 1999, IML Containers was part of a global expansion from its French-based corporate company, The Lacroix Group, a family-owned packaging company since 1946.

Located in Quebec, Canada, North America IML Containers is a technology-driven packaging manufacturer serving national consumer packaged goods companies (CPG) with advanced molding and decoration technologies. North America IML Containers was one of the first companies on the continent to manufacture in-mold labeled containers – containers where the

MADE IN FLAG

label is directly injected into the packaging.

In 2012, IML Containers opened a manufacturing facility in Flagstaff and currently employs 40 local workers at the 40,000 square foot plant. The Flagstaff location serves customers throughout the western United States. IML’s state-of-the-art production process allows them to wrap 3 face or 5 face labels to fit with any container –no matter how uniquely sized it is. IML Containers is not limited to round or any other inefficient space wasting designs. Space optimization results in efficiencies on the shelf, in warehouse, and on freight. In addition, their packaging designs are stackable, so shipping is more efficient. IML’s thin wall packaging are also lightweight based on customer’s design request – for more freight savings.

IML Containers takes their commitment to the environment seriously. All of their containers, including the labelling, are mono material and 100% recyclable. IML Container also has an internal ecosystem to reuse and recycle energy and production waste. In addition, IML Containers has 20 production facilities around the world which maximizes shipping efficiency, further reducing the carbon footprint.

Joycone

Joy Cone is one of the largest ice cream cone manufacturers in the U.S., producing over 2 billion cones each year from four locations. Joy Cone had its start in 1918 as the George and Thomas Cone Company. In the 1960’s the company initiated the Joy retail brand and then in the 1980’s began to do business as the Joy Cone Company.

In 1995 Joy Cone purchased land in Flagstaff for future western expansion but with decreased prices and profitability, didn’t break ground until 1999, building the first phase of its 67,000 square foot facility. Since then, Joy Cone has expanded its facility 6 times to keep up with the companies growth, the most recent expansion in 2021.

Joy Cone and its employees actively support local and national charitable organizations that focus on health and education

NATIONAL MANUFACTURING MONTH

including St. Jude’s Childrens Research Hospital and the American Cancer Society. Here in Flagstaff, Joy Cone supports local organizations Toys for Tots, Flagstaffbiking.org, United Way of Northern Arizona, and the Flagstaff Festival of Science.

Machine Solutions

For more than two decades, Machine Solutions has been creating machines that make stents, catheters and surgical balloons, and has earned a global reputation as a premier provider of advanced equipment and services for the medical device, biopharmaceutical and blood- and plasma-collection industries.

"Our equipment is the industry standard for building, delivering and testing products that travel intravenously;· President and CEO Brian Strini said. "We are a clean industry with no industrial waste. And, we live in a unique environment with a great base of medical device and biosciences synergy. The talent pipeline is strong because

names and deriving the stories. Of course with Mother Road, we're going to stay true to the themes of Route 66;' said Mother Road Brewing Director of Arizona Craft Beer Stephanie Henderson. Not only known for their great beer and their commitment to building a gathering space for the Flagstaff community, Mother Road is leading the way in sustainable business practices in northern Arizona. In 2022, Mother Road was awarded the first

Nestlé Purina PetCare

talented people want to come here to live, work and enjoy a healthy lifestyle·"

With 80 team members, including engineers and technicians, and 30,000 square feet at the Flagstaff Air Park, the company continues to grow its biopharmaceutical footprint.

Mother Road Brewing Co.

Mother Road Brewing Company on Route 66, the Mother Road, is grounded in its commitment to premium craft beer and wears its passion for historic preservation, wildlife conservation and other Arizona values on its cans. Quality and consistency have turned Mother Road's craft beer batches into Arizona favorites. Its Tower Station IPA has been ranked the No. 1 Independent Arizona Craft Beer by Nielsen. Meanwhile, Conserve and Protect Golden Ale supports wildlife through the Arizona Game and Fish Department, bringing in more than $40,000 to protect species like the desert tortoise.

"One of the great parts about making craft beer is having fun in the

Nestle Purina PetCare is a major force in Northern Arizona. It's been making dry pet food in Flagstaff for nearly 50 years. Today, the manufacturing plant produces more than 300,000 tons of premium dog and cat food. The company has an estimated annual impact of $54 million on the local economy and is one of the largest employers in the region with more than 300 employees, including veterinarians and scientists.

Recently Purina has invested $46 million into its Flagstaff operations to keep up with the growing demand for dry pet food, while maintaining a focus on quality, safety and sustainability. In

annual Green Business of the Year Award presented by the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce.

2018, the Purina Flagstaff team achieved its goal of Zero Waste for Disposal, finding ways to derive benefits from materials that would have been discarded. Purina Flagstaff recycles, reuses, recovers or composts waste daily while incorporating solar panels as its power source.

Purina is committed to the communities where it operates and takes great pride in supporting those in Flagstaff who need a helping hand. On an annual basis, the Purina Flagstaff factory team provides product and monetary donations to nearly 50 local nonprofit partners, assisting with initiatives that help bring and keep pets and people together, and other causes important to the community. Benefitting organizations include the United Way of Northern Arizona, Coconino Humane Association, High County Humane, Toys for Tots, the Salvation Army Flagstaff, several veterans’ organizations, and local hospitals. The factory is also committed to supporting the entire Southwest region, extending its support beyond northern Arizona to include organizations in Utah, New Mexico, California, and across Arizona.

Novakinetics Aerosystems

Engineer, inventor and entrepreneur Jim Corning has been creating and developing aerospace products for more than 20 years. His high-performance fiberglass and composite materials are designed for commercial and military aircraft. Novakinetics' engine cowlings - the outer skin of the airplane that goes around the enginemust be strong, light and aerodynamic to hold up in challenging environments above forest fires and combat zones. The company also makes bulletproof aerospace panels that protect pilots on military missions. Novakinetics also designs and produces a lightweight carbon fiber satellite dish that fits into a backpack. "This very mobile product helps special operations teams and explorers in remote regions stay connected and safe through essential communication transmissions," Corning said. "It's easy to carry and

works wherever you are in direct sight of a satellite."

Since 1996 Novakinetics has been contributing to design details and making parts for these Air Tractor firefighting airplanes which

careers right here in Flagstaff. Daniel explained, “ I believe it is the medical device industry greatest industry in the world. I think the things we can solve and the products we can introduce to the marketplace can certainly help save and improve lives.”

Prent

For over 50 years, Prent has pioneered thermoforming processes and developed numerous innovations that have helped advance today’s industry standards. Prent has won more WorldStar Packaging Awards than any other medical or pharmaceutical company in the world.

facility will be an economic boon for northern Arizona, expecting to bring in approximately 200 jobs to a largely rural area. The new facility will aim to treat 25,000 acres of forest per year, helping to ensure the health of northern Arizona’s forests.

Squirrel's Nut Butter

Opened in 1993, their ISO 9001 certified Flagstaff facility serves customers in the southwestern region of the U.S.A. and Mexico. In 1995 Prent AZ was recognized by the city of Flagstaff for pioneering environmental leadership. Three short years later, Prent’s footprint expands globally by opening its first greenfield manufacturing facility in Malaysia to address the packaging needs for electronics and medical device companies.

Restoration Forest Products

Restoration Forest Products produces engineered wood products that can be sold as building materials using small diameter, lowquality lumber. With wild fires increasing in step with climate change, the US Forest Service has implemented its Four Forest Restoration Initiative which aims to mitigate risk of catastrophic wild fire and improve forest health by thinning 2.4 million acres of forest. The Forest Service does this in collaboration with industry partners who take on the work of thinning but it’s been a commercial challenge to make use of the lower economic viability of this type of wood product. RFOR however, uses an innovative technique to using this lower quality lumber to create a product that is both stronger and lasts longer than traditional building materials. Thus allowing the company to take on restoration contracts with the Forest Service here in Northern Arizona.

Restoration Forest Products has recently secured a 200 million dollar bond issued by the Arizona Industrial Development Authority to build a 425,000 square foot facility in Bellemont, Arizona. The facility will include a sawmill, a planer mill and dry kilns. This new

Since 2015 Squirrel’s Nut Butter has been keeping skin healthy and free from chafing and blister. Their first skin salve was created after the companies co-founders were up against a wall trying to find a solution for their daughter’s eczema. One of the co-founders, Stacy, set to work in her kitchen and created a recipe that relieved their daughter’s eczema using all natural ingredients.

A year later Squirrel’s Nut Butter was officially formed when Brian Marshall who happened to be nicknamed Squirrel, tried the salve out as an anti-chafing solution on a mountain bike ride. Since then they’ve been helping athletes, outdoor enthusiasts and skiing fanatics keep their skin healthy and happy. SNB has since expanded its product line to include Happie Toes, a foot-specific salve, and Saddle Butter, a cycling specific. For vegans, SNB has also launched a vegan-friendly version of their original product. Squirrel’s Nut Butter believes that community is important and

NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS

Rotary Club of Flagstaff

Website

"Welcome to the Rotary Club of Flagstaff! Are you an established professional who wants to make positive changes in your community and the world? Our club members are dedicated people who share a passion for community service and friendship. Becoming a Rotarian connects you with a diverse group who share your drive to give back."

Wisdom Good Works

3165 W. Forest Hills Dr. Flagstaff AZ 86001

(928) 699-6321

Website "Women in Science Doing Outreach & Mentoring (WISDOM) to help restore ecological balance around the world. WISDOM Good Works is a collaboration of scientists, educators, environmentalists, philanthropists who believe in the potential of humane animal population control."

Cornerstone

Caregiving

Flagstaff AZ 86001

(928) 220-8225

Website

"We are a senior in-home care service that allows your loved ones to stay where they feel most comfortable: home. We are experienced senior care professionals

who are ready to be with your loved ones."

Victim Witness Services of Northern Arizona

201 E. Birch Ave. Ste. 4 Flagstaff AZ 86001

(928) 856-7676

Website

"Victim Witness Services offers compassionate support to victims, witnesses and survivors of crime and trauma through effective response and community outreach. If you or someone you know needs help, there are resources available to you. You are not alone, and you are not without hope. Since 1984, Victim Witness Services is dedicated to delivering comprehensive, direct services to victims of crimes and/or crises that occur in northern Arizona."

Wecom LLC

30 S San Francisco St. Flagstaff AZ 86001

(928) 753-3829

Website

"As a technology-driven company, Wecom believes that continued investment in our network, employees, and services enables us to meet our customers' current and future demands. Our goal is to provide the best solutions and highest quality customer support, bar none. Let us transform your business' network. Wecom offers 8 major services across 6

industries throughout the Southwestern United States, primarily serving Arizona and Nevada."

Flagstaff Liquor

1700 E Route 66 Flagstaff AZ 86004

(928) 266-0061

Website

"We're thrilled to invite you to explore Flagstaff's newest liquor store destination featuring an unrivaled selection of unique spirits, fine wines, craft beers, and luxury tobacco products—all curated with the value seeker and connoisseur in mind. Experience the convenience of shopping your way: stroll the dog-friendly aisles of our expansive, brand-new 7,000 sq ft store, swing by our convenient drive-thru for service on the go, or enjoy the ease of online ordering right from the comfort of your home or phone."

Bayley Jordan Photography

(928) 421-0515

Website

"Bayley Jordan is a Flagstaff, Arizona based portrait photographer and FAA Part 107 certified drone pilot capturing radiant, romantic images in a classic, colorful style."

Mustang River Grill

13448 E. Old Route 66 Parks AZ 86018

(928) 635-6727

Website

"Welcome to Mustang River Grill, your go-to dining destination in Parks, AZ. Whether you're in the mood for a casual breakfast, a delicious lunch or a fine dining experience, we've got you covered. Our Americanstyle menu boasts a wide range of options to satisfy any craving, including juicy burgers, delectable pizzas, fresh salads, tasty appetizers, and more. We take pride in offering unique and creative dishes, all made from scratch with the freshest ingredients available."

Wicked Welding & Fabrication

(928) 303-8476

Website

Pallas Wellness

Flagstaff Arizona 86001 (405) 845-3612

Website

"Jesslynn is a nationally certified Medical Massage Clinician specializing in chronic pain. Jesslynn also teaches for the community and professionals on the latest fascia research and applications."

FlowState Coaching

Flagstaff, AZ 86001 (845) 821-3638

Website

"FlowState Coaching is a meditation & mindfulness based, personalized coaching experience for you to em-

brace yourself with complete presence. You are listened to, understood, supported, and uplifted."

KH Elements

Flagstaff AZ 86001

(561) 707-0515

Website

"Stroll introduces different neighbors each month by sharing their stories and photos in the magazine. And through Business Spotlight stories, advertising, and in-person events, residents meet the people behind local businesses as well. Formerly known as N2 Publishing, Stroll is the flagship product of media powerhouse The N2 Company"

Kaiser Cabinet Co

2633 E 7th Ave

Flagstaff AZ 86001

(928) 864-6880

Website

"We care about your home construction project needs as much as you do. We believe in conducting business with honesty, integrity & the highest level of service possible"

AZauto Lenders

2018 E. Butler Ave. Ste B Flagstaff AZ 86004 (928) 526-0909

Website

"At Arizona Auto Lenders, we are dedicated to helping Arizona families get the financial help they need…fast! We proudly offer customized car title loans and registration loans with flexible plans."

Historic Flagstaff Stays

Flagstaff AZ 86001

(614) 668-5585

Website

"Charm, Location, and New Memories- Historic Flagstaff Stays. Historic Flagstaff Stays brings you charm and modern conveniences in the perfect location close to downtown Flagstaff. Whether you are travelling solo, a small group, or larger group, we have vacation rental options that will fit your needs."

Aflac Flagstaff AZ 86001

(928) 386-8399

Website

"Aflac Inc. is an American insurance company and is the largest provider of supplemental insurance in the United States. The company was founded in 1955 and is based in Columbus, Georgia.."

Canyon Clay Sports

Flagstaff AZ 86001

(928) 699-6686

Website

"Hi. We are Canyon Clay Sports. We are Veteran owned and dedicated to promoting organized Clay shooting in Northern Arizona.

We work with individual shooters and do corporate and team-building event"

Mariposa Healing With Faith

809 N. Humphreys St. Flagstaff AZ 86001

(928) 421-4184

Website

"Our mission is to walk with children, families, adults and couples by providing them with a healing path and infusing Jesus into the therapy for those who desire His direction for their lives. We are passionate about helping people thrive and find their way through trauma, health issues, loss, anxiety and depression."

Canyon Ministries

2727 W. Hwy 66 Flagstaff AZ 86001 (928) 251-3000

Website

"For over 21 years now, Canyon Ministries has been providing life-changing Grand Canyon Christian tours to thousands of people from around the world. These experiences include daily rim tours to the very best overlooks and locations in the Grand Canyon National Park, as well as river trips through the Grand Canyon along the breathtaking Colorado River… all with a biblical creation perspective!"

Pella Windows & Doors of Flagstaff

555 W. Forest Meadows St. Ste. 14

Flagstaff AZ 86001 (928) 320-5370

Website

"Stunning custom windows and doors made to enhance your life's comfort. #pellainspired"

Flagstaff

Green Certified Businesses

SHIFT FLG Kitchen + Bar

Oeno Wine Lounge & Bottle Shop

Restoration Forest Products LLC

Over the Rainbow Butterfly Garden

Aspen Communications LLC

Yugo Flagstaff - Central

Flagstaff Station Market Cafe

B3 Construction LLC

Mountain Sports Flagstaff

Forest Highlands Golf Club

Holiday Inn Express

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott

Get your business

Green Certified by visiting https://www. flagstaffchamber.com/ green-business-com

MEMBER ANNIVERSARIES

GO F.A.R. Flagstaff Airstream Renovations

Member Since: 9/27/22

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Air Force Recruiting Flagstaff

Member Since: 9/2/2022

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Arizona State Veterans' Home - Flagstaff

Member Since: 9/19/2022

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Aspen Integrative Medical Center Inc.

Member Since: 9/13/2022

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Buffalo Wild Wings

Member Since: 9/20/2022

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McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.

Member Since: 8/22/2022

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Building Community, LLC

Member Since: 9/26/2022

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ETC. by Emily LLC

Member Since: 9/8/2022

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Flag Home Inspection

Member Since: 9/19/2022

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Flag Stamp & Engraving, LLC

Member Since: 10/13/2022

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JustWireless - East Flagstaff

Member Since: 9/20/2022

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Mama Kim's Kitchen Member Since: 9/16/2022

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Mobility Prosthetic and Orthotic Services

Member Since: 9/9/2022

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Odyssey Services Corp.

Member Since: 9/23/2022

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Operation YOU

Member Since: 9/30/2022

Website Trainual Member Since: 9/26/2022

Website Vertical Solutions Consulting LLC

Member Since: 9/19/2022

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Aspen Place at The Sawmill

Member Since: 10/11/2022

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Lancaster Leadership

Member Since: 10/13/2022

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POF Insurance

Member Since: 8/9/2022

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SIMS Business Systems

Member Since: 10/5/2022

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Kirkham Mediation, LLC

Member Since: 10/11/2022

Website Hwy 89 Car Wash

Member Since: 10/13/2022

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Hyatt Place Flagstaff

Member Since: 10/14/2022

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Teatro Italian Food & Wine

Member Since: 10/17/2022

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Gateway Mortgage Group

Member Since: 10/19/2022

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Mayan Winds Legacy, LLC

Member Since: 10/21/2022

Website Chocolita Chocolate Cafe

Member Since: 10/27/2022

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Allure Aesthetics AZ

Member Since: 9/12/2018

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Comprehensive Interventional Care Centers

Member Since: 9/17/2018

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CORE Construction

Member Since: 9/12/2018

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Diamond Auto Glass Inc.

Member Since: 9/21/2018

Website

Northern Arizona Hospice

Member Since: 9/13/2018

Website

Olive the Best Oils and Vinegars of Flagstaff

Member Since: 9/11/2018

Website Society of St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store

Member Since: 10/4/18

Website

Westside Veterinary Clinic

Member Since: 10/22/18

Website

Vitalant

Member Since: 9/29/2008

Website

Rancho Sedona RV Park

Member Since: 9/11/2003

Website

Comfort Keepers Member Since: 10/21/2003

Website

Frey Investment Member Since: 9/11/2003

Website

Northland Preparatory Academy Member Since: 9/29/2003

Website

Michael Koester RealtyMichael Koester

Member Since: 9/28/1998

Website

Ferrellgas Member Since: 9/1/1993

Website

Springhill Suites Flagstaff Member Since: 10/1/1993

Website

Grand Canyon River Outfitters Association

Member Since: 9/19/2013

Website

Wiseman Aviation

Member Since: 9/13/2013

Website

Armour Self Storage Member Since: 10/1/1983

Website

Flagstaff Business News

Member Since: 9/12/2008

Website

Thank you Loren Vickers Overhead Doors, 30 years strong!

Thank you Crest Insurance 25 years of Chamber membership

Chamber

Chamber Bizz Buzz highlights local business and non-profit leaders and the story behind their ventures. Airing Saturday mornings at 8:05 AM on KAFF Legends, 93.5FM, shows can also be found on flagstaffchamber.com, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. Click the links below each show or scan the code to tune in and start listening and consider following Bizz Buzz on your favorite podcast app to stay up to date on the latest business news.

Americana Motor Hotel

Phoenix Truck Driving School

Pinnacle Building Services

Flagstaff Bone & Joint, PLLC

Next Step Prosthetics

Hozhoni Foundation, Inc.

Meteor Crater/ Discovery Center & Space Museum

NEW MEMBER CONNECTION @ WHITE DOVE COFFEE

GRAND OPENING & RIBBON CUTTING: S.T.A.R

FLAGSTAFF YOUNG PROFESSIONALS: LEADERSHIP MENTORING SUMMIT

BUSINESS AFTER 5 @ AIDEN BY BEST WESTERN

GRAND OPENING & RIBBON CUTTING: FLAGSTAFF LIQUOR

GRAND OPENING & RIBBON CUTTING: AMERICANA MOTOR HOTEL

GOOD MORNING FLAGSTAFF SEPTEMBER 2023 @ LITTLE AMERICA HOTEL

GRAND OPENING & RIBBON CUTTING: WHOLE HEARTED HEALING CENTER

GRAND OPENING & RIBBON CUTTING: VILLAGE CAMP FLAGSTAFF

FYP BBQ 0n the Patio