March 2021

INSIDE THE MARCH 2021 ISSUE: Solar Project Gaining Energy p. 3 Seniors Moving into The Landings p. 4 Wrangling in Business at Prescott Valley p. 6

Skilled Trades Center Coming to Clarkdale p. 10 Community Profile: Honoring Legendary Soccer Coach Mike Pantalione p. 12 Meet Ava, Snowbowl’s Avalanche Dog p. 28

Luxury Homes Attracting Buyers Seeking Open Spaces

By Ray Newton, QCBN

ed with Better Homes and Gardens Bloomtree Realty in Prescott, is talking specifically about Whispering eal estate agents say two Canyon, a master-planned communifactors are driving up the ty about 15 miles north of Prescott on market for luxury homes in scenic rural settings: low interest rates Williamson Valley Road.

Lots offer spectacular views of and thousands of homeowners who rugged, rolling terrain, rock outcropwant to escape crowded, expensive pings and arroyos punctuated with metropolitan areas to communities scrub oak, juniper and pinon pine with more open space and a better trees. Norkus, a Prescott resident for quality of life.

21 years, is a certified luxury home Di Ann Norkus, a realtor affiliat-

R

marketing specialist ranked among the top 1% of multi-million-dollar producers.

“I sold four homes the second week of February, and my appointment schedule the next two months keeps growing,” she said.

Norkus estimates that 75% of potential buyers are coming from out of state. “We’re showing lots and homes to people from the East and West Coasts – and most states between.

Most eastern buyers want out of cold climates, while Pacific Coast buyers want some open space, blue skies and sunshine.”

The other 25% of buyers usually are from Arizona, typically Tucson or Phoenix.

Norkus noted that current phases in the development are nearing closeout. Only about 20 lots remain in non-gated Phase 3 and gated Phase Continued on page 39

Boutique Air Now Flying to Phoenix and Prescott

By Ray Newton, QCBN

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A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the mid-February beginning of commercial air service to Prescott by Boutique Air. Airport and city officials welcomed Boutique Air Vice President of Operations Brian Kondrad, shown here with ceremonial scissors, following the arrival of the inaugural flight from Phoenix. The airline will offer two round-trip flights a day between Prescott and Phoenix, Sundays through Fridays. Courtesy Photo March 2021 | Issue 3 Volume 9

u Extensive renovations completed in October, 2020. u With the holiday season upon us, we are here to take care of your friends and family traveling to Prescott in a safe and responsible manner.

ith the Feb. 15 inaugural flight of Boutique Air from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport to Prescott Regional Airport (PRC), the community celebrated the arrival of a second commercial carrier into the Quad Cities area.

More than 40 invited guests greeted the 12:30 p.m. arrival of the eight-passenger, single-engine Pilatus PC-12 aircraft. City and community leaders welcomed those arriving with a celebratory ribbon-cutting.

PRC Management Analyst Kristi Miller greeted those present and introduced Prescott Mayor Greg Mengarelli. “Boutique Air gives our residents an excellent alterna-

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tive for going to or returning from Phoenix for whatever the reason,” the mayor said. “Our citizens are appreciative of this option. The upscale commuter plane is truly a pleasure to fly in.”

PRC Advisory Committee Vice Chair Frank Newman echoed the mayor. “Having a prestigious airline like Boutique serve our greater community is an asset for all of us.”

Prescott Chamber of Commerce President Sheri Heiney presented Brian Kondrad, Boutique Air vice president of operations, with a certificate.

She said she represented the entire Quad Cities area in welcoming the carrier to Yavapai County.

Konrad spoke briefly, saying the airline was pleased to be serving PRC passengers. He

emphasized that Boutique would offer twice-daily roundtrip flights. “The actual flight takes about 25 minutes,” he said.

Fights are offered Sundays through Fridays.

Kondrad said Pilatus PC12 planes have eight seats arranged in executive seating configuration. “Passengers truly enjoy the experience of flying private for the cost of commercial.”

With headquarters in San Francisco, Boutique operates the second-largest fleet of PC12s in the nation, using them across the country as commuters from smaller airports to larger ones. The Swiss-built aircraft are recognized for world-class engineering and safety.

Continued on page 38

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MARCH 2021 // Quad Cities Business News

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Dugas Solar Project Proposed Near Cordes Junction

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By Stan Bindell, QCBN

an Francisco-based Candela Renewables has proposed a multi-million-dollar solar project near Dugas that would bring electricity to 168,000 homes, more money into the tax base for Yavapai County, and create jobs.

Dave Cherry, public information officer for Arizona State Trust Land, confirmed that Candela Renewables has submitted an application to use the land for the Dugas Solar Project. Cherry said there is no timeline for approval or denial of the request. If approved, Candela Renewables may lease the land for 45 years, according to the application.

The proposed solar project southeast of Prescott would span both sides of Interstate 17 on 4,680 acres of state trust land, about three miles north of Cordes Junction. A portion of any state trust land transaction would mean more money for public education, as required by state law.

Solar Frontier, another solar firm, has completed an application for 800 acres in part of the same area. This area is enticing to solar companies because of the nearby Dugas Substation where they can join the grid.

Ian Calkins, spokesman for the Dugas Solar Project for Candela Renewables, issued a statement stating that Candela Renewables develops utility-scale solar generation projects in North America and markets the energy to utilities seeking to procure renewable resources for their customers. The statement said the development team is in the early stages of planning the project. “When fully permitted, the company will begin construction of the 450 megawatt photovoltaic facility, which is planned on Arizona State Trust Land. Zoning and land use applications will be filed with the county in coming months,” it read.

Representatives of Candela Renewables gave a presentation to the Yavapai County Board of Supervisors and have spoken with stakeholders, including the Cosanti Foundation and the

Upper Agua Fria Watershed Partnership. Stakeholder concerns include potential impact on water quality and wildlife, particularly pronghorn.

Yavapai County Supervisor James Gregory, who represents the district where the state land is located, said he wants more information before he supports the project, but he added that this could be the future. He noted that APS is mandated to use more renewable energy. Gregory believes the initial investment for Candela Renewables would be about $400 million if the project is approved.

Patrick McWhorter, president and CEO of the Cosanti Foundation, has concerns because the state trust land that Candela Renewables plans to use is adjacent to Arcosanti, which is run by the Cosanti Foundation. He said the biggest concern is the impact on the watershed, as the Agua Fria River runs through the property.

McWhorter also is concerned about the impact on wildlife and whether the solar panels will interrupt migratory patterns.

Arcosanti also has grazing rights on 3,000 acres of the state trust land, which is subleased to a local farmer. Orme Ranch and the YMCA also have grazing rights on the state trust land.

As a tourist attraction, McWhorter wonders what the solar panels will look like from Arcosanti. Eighty people live on the Arcosanti site and McWhorter wants to make sure there are no negative impacts on them.

McWhorter said he sees the need for solar energy in general, but wonders what happens to the solar panels after decades of use. He noted that Arcosanti has a small solar setup on its property.

Mary Hoadley, chairwoman of the Upper Agua Fria Watershed Partnership (UAFWP), said the group is concerned about the impact the solar project will have on the water quality and quantity on the Agua Fria River.

In a letter to Arizona State Trust Land Commissioner Lisa Atkins, Hoadley had questions regarding storm water and erosion impacts Continued on page 37

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The Landings Now Accepting Residents

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By Ray Newton, QCBN

esidents are beginning to move into The Landings in Prescott Valley, the latest senior living center to be developed in the area, with options for independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Located at 3500 N. Windsong Drive, the almost five-acre complex has several one- and two-story buildings.

They collectively add up to more than 60,000 square feet.

The 106-unit property offers residents 13 different floor plans, ranging from studio to one- and two-bedroom spaces from 260 to 710 square feet, according to The Landings Executive Director Gail Hitt. Units come furnished in the living and sleeping areas and have some appliances such as refrigerators. All have HVAC, cable and WiFi. Parking is free.

Hitt, who has several years of experience working in senior care centers, said on-site facilities are numerous. They include a library-study area, theater, meeting/game room, workout rooms, several common areas and a bistro. She says programs and activities also will be available for residents.

“We’ll have an activity director who will plan and coordinate hosted

outings [and] cultural events and programs. We’ll also have transportation to shopping areas, all at no expense, except for what the event or program itself might cost,” she said.

Hitt noted that, already, The Landings has sponsored a successful community event – the “Share the Food” drive last month. “We cooperated with the Yavapai County Food Bank in a joint effort to combat family and senior food insecurity. We are a part of the greater community, and we are committed to helping families, children and seniors.”

Other on-site employees will include administrators, a resident care director, LPNs, certified medication aides, support staff, housekeeping and maintenance staff. The number of initial employees will be determined by the number of residents, but ultimately, it is expected that more than 60 staff members will be working at The Landings.

PART OF A NATIONAL CHAIN

The modern senior center is the first of its kind constructed in Arizona by the Affinity Living Group (ALG), a major national provider of assisted living care. It is rated seventh in the nation for providing assisted living, and is the fourth largest for

Left: The Landings Executive Director Gail Hitt and Jeffrey Fleischer, one of the developers of the senior center, enjoy the contemporary and spacious interior bistro area of the recently opened facility. Right: The entry sign to The Landings at Prescott Valley welcomes newcomers to the senior center. Photos by Ray Newton

Alzheimer’s and memory care.

Headquartered in Hickory, North Carolina, ALG operates more than 100 senior care centers in eight states, most of which are in the east.

One of the owner-developers is Jeffrey Fleischer, from Novo Living Properties in Phoenix. In exclusive comments to QCBN, Fleischer said

he was most proud of the flexibility available to residents. “We’re enthusiastic about being able to provide so many ranges of care – independent living, assisted living, secured living.”

Hitt views The Landings as an all-inclusive senior living setting where residents don’t have to worry about yard work or daily tasks on the

property. “Our job is to make life as easy and comfortable as possible for you.”

For more information about The Landing in Prescott Valley, call 828445-3669 or visit prescottvalleyseniors.com. QCBN

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Businesses Welcoming Upcoming Wranglers Season

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By Brent Ruffner, QCBN

rescott Valley businesses are anticipating a boost as the Northern Arizona Wranglers take to the field for eight home games in the downtown area. The first game is scheduled against the Arizona Rattlers in Prescott Valley on Sunday, May 16.

Marnie Uhl, president of Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce, said the impact could be great. The Findlay Toyota Center has seen recent professional teams play in its arena – the NAZ Suns and the Arizona Sundogs. “It’s a huge impact when a team is playing regular games,” she said.

Uhl, who has been the chamber’s president for 15 years, said businesses from hotels to restaurants should see an uptick in business.

Through the years, she has seen the entertainment district take shape so that the newest team will be “an asset” to the community. “[The planners] did an amazing job of creating a vibrant feel in a rural area,” Uhl said.

Eddie Padillo, regional manager of Tailgaters Sports Grill & IL Primo Pizza And Wings, said he is looking forward to more events in the area.

The restaurant features anything from a bowl of chili to several kinds

of specialty pizza.

He said he is hopeful regular football would be a draw for patrons before and after gridiron games.

“Anytime they are bringing back events, it is a positive thing,” Padillo said.

So far, it is unknown whether fans would be allowed to fill the entire arena – about 5,000 seats. That decision is a collaborative one from the town, health department and arena officials.

Indoor Football League officials help advise what determination should be made come game day.

Ticket sales are “good,” according to Northern Arizona Wranglers Owner Trey Medlock. “Until we reach late April or the first of May, nobody can say accurately how many people will be allowed in the arena.”

Medlock is the owner of the state’s third team in the Indoor Football League (IFL), which includes the Arizona Rattlers and the Tucson Sugar Skulls.

Buffalo Wild Wings General Manager Jessica Wallace remembers spikes in business when the NAZ Suns were in town. She said she noticed “a lot more” sales before and after basketball home games and expects much of the same with the Wranglers. “We’re excited for what

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

it’s going to bring.”

Prescott resident Chad Garner said he plans to go to the first game against the Rattlers. He has followed the team since officials announced

its name on the IFL website. “I love watching indoor football,” he said.

“It’s fun.”

Padillo said he is thankful that events such as football games are

planned to take place in the summertime.

“At the end of the day, we are happy to be open.” QCBN

MARCH 2021 // Quad Cities Business News

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Business Woman QCBN

of the Month

Momma Kneads Dough for Cinnamon Rolls Sara Clouse quit her job to bake and open her business out of a food truck

By V. Ronnie Tierney, QCBN

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ara Clouse’s cinnamon rolls have made the rounds. They’ve been gifts for friends, neighbors and teachers. They’ve shown up at bake sales to support youth sports. And they’ve even brought in $1,500 at a local fundraiser. Now, everyone can enjoy them from Clouse’s business, Momma Kneads Dough.

“Since I was a little girl, my mom and I would bake together. It was a tradition,” said Clouse. “Everyone loved her cinnamon rolls, but she never sold them.”

Clouse carried on her mother’s love for baking and then got to thinking, “I could do this as a full-time job!”

So she quit her job, amped up her oven, converted her kitchen and Momma Kneads Dough came to fruition.

“I’ve known Sara since she was born and her mom and I were really good friends,” said local businesswoman Mary Freer. “Sara is a model of her

mother. They are hard workers, give a lot to charity and do a lot for people. I’m thrilled that her business has done so well. Her cinnamon rolls are the best, her secret ingredients shine through the love she has for baking. I buy them for friends, workers and myself.”

Interestingly, Clouse does not use her mother’s recipe. “My grandfather was a beekeeper so my mom used honey in her cinnamon rolls. I took a recipe that my sister-in-law was using and combined that recipe with my mom’s. It took a lot of trial and error,” she said.

Momma Kneads Dough currently is selling cinnamon rolls and other treats out of her food truck at Flagstaff Snow Park. “I knew the park was opening so I called them and asked if I could sell my cinnamon rolls. The owner said, ‘Yes, as long as you can mass-produce.’ At the time, I didn’t know how I could do it, but I knew I’d figure out a way to do something I love, which is baking.”

Along with her husband, Josh, Clouse found a food truck in Casa Grande. “We did a lot of work to conform it to our needs and style. We painted it, rearranged the sink, and installed a bigger counter space for coffee

and hot water,” said Clouse.

Along with cinnamon rolls, Momma Kneads Dough also sells regular and flavored hot chocolate, flavored sodas, chips, candy and what Clouse claims is her biggest seller, s’mores kits.

Concurrently with the Snow Park, Clouse also sells her cinnamon rolls

Sara Clouse honors her mother and her love for baking through Momma Kneads Dough. Her signature cinnamon rolls can be found on Facebook and at her food truck at Flagstaff Snow Park. Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney Fresh Focuses Photography

on her Facebook page, for weddings and corporate events, and recently participated in a Toys for Tots drive paid for by Shafor Realty and CNN Mortgage. “Anyone who donated a toy would get a cinnamon roll,” said Clouse.

“Sara is doing great and she kills it,” said 3’s in the Trees owner Augie Herring. “Her cinnamon rolls are fantastic. My favorite is the frosting. My customers comment on her rolls all the time.”

As a family affair, all of Clouse’s children, Madelyn, 18, Jacob, 16, Jackson, 11, and Austin, 10, help out. “It’s been a great family business, and when the

kids help, I pay them and it’s taught us how to work together,” she said.

On holidays and special events, Momma Kneads Dough whips up 120 dozen or more a day. “I get a lot of people telling me that my cinnamon rolls are the best they’ve tasted. People love the frosting. It’s been suggested that I start shipping but haven’t gotten to that point yet.”

Clouse says someday she hopes to open a retail storefront. QCBN To contact Momma Kneads Dough, you can find Clouse on Facebook, or jsmj2005@ msn.com or call 928-853-9834.

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round has been broken in Clarkdale for Yavapai College’s new Skilled Trades Center, a 10,000-square-foot facility that will train the coming generation of construction workers, electricians, plumbers and heating/cooling technicians on the Verde Valley Campus.

“It’s a pre-engineered building and it will arrive in early March,” said YC Director of Facilities David Laurence. “The plan is to have everything in place around June 30, then put in the security and IT systems.”

Designed by SPS+ architects – the team behind the Verde Campus’s recently completed Building L renovation – and constructed by McCarthy Building Systems, the Skilled Trades Center will serve as the campus’s new Building D. It will house the classrooms, shop space and equipment to teach trades critical to the Verde Valley’s continuing growth.

“The interior will consist of four large bays, each equipped to handle a different program,” said YC Career and Technical Programs Dean John Morgan. The exterior will include large, covered spaces for outdoor work. “It will be similar to CTEC [the college’s Technical Campus near the Prescott airport] in that everything will be open and visible. Faculty offices will be adjacent to each lab, with views

extending into the labs.”

The building’s design is the product of extended consultation between the college and the Verde Valley community. “After several months of meetings, a group consisting of local businesses, school superintendents and county officials voted on the programs they felt made the most sense to add in the Verde, based on workforce needs,” Morgan said. “Those programs included engineering and manufacturing – now located in building L – and residential electrician, plumbing, HVAC and construction programs, slated to go into the new center.”

The new center fulfills a promise made by Yavapai College President Dr. Lisa Rhine in 2019. “I’ve heard your requests for skilled trades programming in the Verde Valley,” she said. “Yavapai College is here and we are ready to provide the educational opportunities and infuse the workforce on the east side of Yavapai County.”

Consultation with Verde Valley residents began that summer. Designs were completed and site preparation commenced in December. YC’s Verde Valley Skilled Trades Center is scheduled to open its doors to students this fall. QCBN

MARCH 2021 // Quad Cities Business News

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// COMMUNITY PROFILE // BY RAY NEWTON

Nation’s Winningest Soccer Coach Retires Mike Pantalione ends his extraordinary 32-year career at Yavapai College

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By Ray Newton, QCBN

n icon in the Quad Cities and even more so in the collegiate soccer world, Mike Pantalione retired in mid-January after a 32-year career as head soccer coach at Yavapai College (YC).

Pantalione was hired in 1988 by then YC Athletic Director Lynn Merritt.

He was at the University of Montana, where he earned his degree. Prior to that, Pantalione had been coaching and directing soccer programs in England and then the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Kenyon College in Ohio, Jesuit High School in Portland, and Archbishop Wood High School in Philadelphia. In all, he has been active in soccer for 40 years.

No men’s soccer coach in the nation

has a record that even comes close to Pantalione’s .900 winning percentage.

He is the only coach in intercollegiate soccer to average more than 20 wins a season.

A Hall of Fame recipient, he coached the Roughriders to several National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) championships. His team won its first national championship in 1990 – two years after he founded the team. The Roughriders won national championships again in 1992, 1997, 2002, 2003, 2007 and 2009.

Those who know Pantalione will tell you he is a quiet, humble man, reluctant to take credit for any Roughrider accomplishment. That was apparent when Pantalione, in an exclusive interview with QCBN, said, “It’s a player’s Continued on page 34

Michael Pantalione, shown here encouraging students, says he is grateful to have had the opportunity to guide and support his athletes. Courtesy photo

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Improvements to Granite Creek Corridor to Begin Soon

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By Ray Newton, QCBN

oicing enthusiastic support for making the downtown Granite Creek Corridor a safer, more user-friendly area, Prescott City Council members gave the go-ahead for design and engineering work needed during their end-of-January meeting.

That approval came along with support for a $179,178 contract with Kimley-Horn & Associates and its Prescott office, an extension of one of the nation’s largest planning and design firms.

Part of the funding – $96,646 for the design project – will come from the city’s general fund. An additional $82,532 will come from the Prescott Public Works Department’s budget. However, an application has been filed for an Arizona Land and Water Conservation Fund grant. If approved, it could reduce the city’s portion of the expense.

Design and planning work is expected to be completed fairly soon, said Tyler Goodman, assistant to the city manager.

Prescott Mayor Greg Mengarelli recently praised the Granite Creek Corridor as “…one of the true jewels in the Prescott area.” He said the cor-

ridor had previously been neglected, but now, because of intense planning during the past few years, improvements will revitalize and enhance the corridor for residents and visitors.

In all, more than $1.8 million is estimated for planned improvements: N $184,426 for corridor lighting.

N $148,000 for retaining walls.

N $106,447 in stormwater outfall improvements.

N $72,000 for removal of non-native medium and large elm trees that clog the creek.

N $70,000 for a ramada near the historic railroad trestle bridge located immediately west of the recently completed Hilton Garden Inn Hotel.

N $70,000 for a ramada or amphitheater at the West Granite Creek Park.

N $57,410 for construction of Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) access to Goodwin Street.

N $25,000 for improvement of trail surfaces from Aubrey Street to Willis Street.

N $6,000 for signage.

N $5,400 for benches.

Near the Hilton Garden Inn Hotel, at the south end of Granite Creek Park parallel to Montezuma Street, a splash pad and play area are planned,

Granite Creek, flowing under the historic railroad trestle behind the Hilton Garden Inn Hotel, will soon be the site for surfaced walking trails, benches and a public ramada. Photo by Ray Newton

along with space for the Prescott Farmers Market.

City Recreation Services Director Joe Baynes said the city wants to make the area user-friendly and to help local businesses.

Some of the improvements are underway, but real work will begin when the design and engineering plans are complete. Goodman said construction work on major projects is expected to begin in early July. QCBN

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he COVID-19 mutation that caused outbreaks in California, known as the California Variant, is spreading and experts fear it may be more contagious than even the United Kingdom strain. Since December, Arizona has seen at least 140 positive samples of the California Variant and five of the UK Variant. Scientists are hopeful the vaccines work against the new strains and healthcare officials say they will treat all strains the same way.

Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) has created a COVID-19 Variant Sequencing Dashboard to make it easier for anyone to keep track of the variants found in Arizona at pathogen.tgen.org/covidseq-tracker/footer.

At the same time, the Department of Health and Human Services reports that both Moderna and Pfizer have been experiencing a backlog of orders for the COVID-19 vaccine because of severe weather in the eastern part of the country. So far, more than 1.3 million doses have been administered across Arizona. Yavapai County has administered nearly 50,000 vaccines; more than 5,000 are second doses.

In mid-February, Northern Arizona Healthcare (NAH), which operates Verde Valley Medical Center and Flagstaff Medical Center, reported administering 10,000 doses, with more than 2,500 going to community residents.

“Right now our goal is to give at least 500 doses a day,” said NAH Chief Quality Officer Dr. John Mougin.

“The most common side effect is soreness in the arm and, really, that’s no different than any other vaccine you may have received. It’s from the injection itself and the needle,” he said.

“You can get low-grade fevers, body aches or joint aches. Those things we’re seeing a little bit more frequently with the second shot than the first shot.”

NAH officials are working with Yavapai

County to open vaccine clinics in Camp Verde and Sedona, which they expect to occur in the next couple of weeks, depending on vaccine availability. “We are distributing the vaccine in Prescott as well as the rest of Yavapai County at a fairly decent rate,” said Mougin. “One of the NAH goals is to partner with the counties to really make Coconino County and Yavapai County the leaders of the state as far as the rate of vaccinations.”

Currently, NAH is vaccinating those in the 1a and 1b categories. “I have confidence that by late spring we should be doing 1c,” he said.

Phase 1a includes healthcare personnel and long-term care facility residents and staff members.

Phase 1b includes priority populations such as education and childcare workers, teachers and staff. This includes all school and higher education staff members who normally interact with other staff and students, and bus drivers, cafeteria workers, facilities staff, etc.; law enforcement and protective services (corrections, other emergency response staff); individuals aged 65 and older.

Phase 1b additional populations include: 1. Power and utility workers 2. Food and agriculture related occupations (packaging and distribution workers, grocery and restaurant workers) 3. Transportation and material moving occupations (public transportation providers, airlines, gas stations, auto shop workers, and other transportation network providers) 4. State and local government workers that provide critical services for continuity of government 5. Other essential workers (e.g., business and financial services, supply chain for critical goods, funeral services Meanwhile, as the number of COVID-19 cases continue to decline in Northern Arizona, NAH Chief Nursing Officer Tyffany Laurano says creative strategies have helped to ensure Continued on page 37

MARCH 2021 // Quad Cities Business News

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15

// BUSINESS CENTS // BY BONNIE STEVENS

Mental Toughness Finds a Way Out of the Jungle

I

N EW

f Maui were a woman, she would look like Amanda Eller. At a lean 5’7 and donning a long, breezy, tangerine-colored dress, Amanda seemed to float, not walk, down the main street of Makawao. Her delicate golden leaf earrings dangled and shimmered against her long smooth, shiny, dark brown hair. Tan, fit and self-assured, Amanda is a calm, poised vision of tropical health. If there is such a thing as an old soul, that would be Amanda, wise, yet youthful. From my perspective, she is the human essence of the Aloha Spirit, embodying the island’s gentleness, beauty and strength.

Not surprisingly, Amanda is a healer.

She teaches yoga, practices mindfulness, exercises regularly – hikes, runs, scuba dives, swims – and spends a great deal of time in nature.

As I was locking the bike that my husband and I bought for $100 from a surfer named Chad, I could not help but notice Amanda’s natural elegance as she ascended the stairs next to me.

Moments later, I realized she was the doctor of physical therapy that I had pedaled through the upcountry to see.

Could this island goddess coax my limping, misaligned, banged-up body into something that moved like hers?

I was more than eager to adopt that fantasy.

As I lay on her table and gave her my best self-diagnosis of injured discs, sciatica, torn ligaments and a sprained ankle, she methodically worked on my bruised muscles, misbehaving fascia and screaming trigger points. We talked about Maui as an island that calls to you. We discussed jobs, spirituality and gentle places to ease back into an active lifestyle: like hiking the Kahakapao Loop at the Makawao Forest Reserve for a short journey into the cool rainforest; and exercising at Baby Beach, a shallow cove protected by reefs from the wild North Shore waves but with such a strong current that you can actually swim in place – and people like to bring their babies there, both human and canine. She also talked about some special waterfalls on the Road to Hana that most visitors don’t know about.

Between outdoor adventures during my stay, I would limp back to Amanda’s office and limp a little less when I left.

Six months later and back in Arizona, I was half-listening to the morning news when I heard the words “Maui,” “yoga instructor” and “missing.” With a sick knot forming in my stomach, I

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looked to the television screen to see Amanda’s serene image, with the same delicate golden leaf earrings. I learned her car was at a trailhead, her keys were stashed under one of the tires and Amanda was nowhere to be found.

Extraordinary search efforts were organized, first by the state and later extended by her friends and family.

Funds were raised, vigils were held, helicopter pilots flew and search dogs aided ground efforts. But still, no sign of Amanda. Upon immediately reaching out to her yoga community, one of her friends told me she was the strongest person she knew, “physically and spiritually.” Totally believable.

In the long days ahead, I couldn’t stop obsessing about where she could be. My constant concern crept into my dreams where I felt as though I was running through the thick Maui jungle passing broad giant leaves that seemed to be deliberately positioned to catch raindrops. Except when I looked down, those weren’t my legs, they were longer, leaner, darker. If you believe we’re all connected on some level, you’ll understand why I believed Amanda was out there somewhere, swallowed up by the lush vegetation.

Seventeen days after she vanished,

30

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

MENTALLY STRONG PEOPLE:

Solve problems. Amanda knew she needed food, water and shelter. Obtaining those necessities was where her energy went.

Tolerate discomfort. Instead of

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grieving about the bed she didn’t have, Amanda was grateful to find plants trampled and patted down by animals where she could rest.

Accept responsibility and learn from their mistakes. Amanda was the first to acknowledge that she had set off that Saturday morning unprepared and without informing anyone.

Believe in a higher power. There were times when Amanda questioned why she was being put through such anguish, but found comfort in an inner voice that assured her that she was not being punished.

Keep their goals in front of them.

Amanda’s goals have long been to offer healing. Even through her ordeal, she thought there might be something she could learn that would help others.

She forced herself to think about what benefits could be derived from the experience and pushed her mind beyond her current predicament.

Have a strong network. Amanda was shocked to know how many people were committed to her safe rescue.

Strive for balance. Amanda’s lifestyle choices of exercise, meditation, a healthy diet, attention to rest, a peaceful community and time spent in nature

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Quad Cities Business News // MARCH 2021

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Making a Business of Snow Play Flagstaff Snow Park marks five years at Fort Tuthill

By V. Ronnie Tierney, QCBN

B

etween bouts of laughter and the swish of snow tubes cruising down powder-packed slopes, comments such as “best day ever” can be heard at Flagstaff Snow Park.

On the hills at Fort Tuthill, Flagstaff Snow Park is in its fifth season of winter fun, with snowmaking, food trucks, fire pits and a crew of friendly and helpful employees.

“Last year was our first full season with snowmaking,” said Flagstaff Snow Park primary owner Jonathan Allen.

“It was a great season, we had about 60,000 people. This year, we’re dealing with COVID and running at a reduced capacity to limit contact and let people spread out better, but attendance is great.”

Also in response to COVID-19, tickets are sold online and guests’ temperatures are taken before they can enter the park.

“It is so much fun and my kids have a blast,” said local mom and Simply Country Boutique owner, Krista

Randall, “especially in a dry winter when we have no snow. It’s great to get out and go tubing with the kids. Even my mother-in-law had a great time, and for the many hours you can spend out there, the price is great.”

Open on holidays, weekends and some evenings, the snow park has six tubing runs and a designated kiddie hill, as well as a “passive” area where visitors can sit and relax and view the action. Snow tubes are provided.

“We don’t advertise, but we’re always at capacity,” said co-owner and Flagstaff Firefighter Josh Crane. “The first couple of years, we had mostly Phoenix visitors, but we’re now seeing more locals.”

The staff at Flagstaff Snow Park tops off at 40. “On a daily basis, we employ about 20. We cycle through them,” said Allen. “We hire mostly high school and Northern Arizona University [NAU] students.”

“Working here is super fun,” said NAU student Dana Parker. “Last year, we had a lot of crazy sold-out days. It’s a great job.”

The inspiration for Flagstaff Snow Park was spurred by Allen in 2011. “I moved out to Highway 180 and the traffic was horrible in the wintertime.

I’d see cars parked bumper to bumper

Flagstaff Snow Park’s Jonathan Allen says the business needed snowmaking capabilities to be sustainable. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney Fresh Focuses Photography

and people sledding on the side of the road. The City of Flagstaff put out a bid for a snow play area on McMillan Mesa but it fell through. I was disappointed,

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which is part of why I responded to the 2016 Coconino County RFP [request for proposal] for snow play at Fort Tuthill. We wanted to make sure it came to

fruition.”

“Flagstaff Snow Park is a valued partner of Coconino County. They Continued on page 37

MARCH 2021 // Quad Cities Business News

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17

Heart Center Welcomes YRMC Foundation Welcomes Three New Board Members Top-Tier Cath Lab

T

By Bridget O’Gara

he recently renovated Cardiac Catherization Laboratory at the James Family Heart Center – located at Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Center in Prescott – caps a multi-year plan to expand needed cardiovascular services to the community.

“It’s exciting to see this come together,” said Lauren Weedon, RN, MSN, director of Cardiovascular Services at Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Center. “Our most recent Cath Lab renovation includes top-ofthe-line technology and the highest-quality imaging equipment available. This means our physicians use the most advanced tools to make important decisions as they care for our heart patients.”

These latest generation imaging tools not only produce precise images of the heart, they also accomplish that with the lowest radiation dose possible. Additionally, the new Cath Lab is fully integrated, meaning all aspects of any procedure take place within the lab.

“Today, we have a total of three Cath Labs, two for cardiac needs and one focused on structural heart needs,” Weedon explained. “They are all equally equipped and together they have allowed us to introduce many innovative procedures. Patients in any

of our three Cath Labs receive the best available on every front: technology, safety, equipment and, of course, our amazing team.”

Planning for this latest Cath Lab was a team effort that included input from Cardiovascular Services staff members and Dignity Health, YRMC physicians. Those professionals also collaborate daily on the diagnostic and therapeutic procedures that take place in the Cath Lab, including: N Diagnostic angiography N Peripheral angioplasty (opening of blocked arteries) N Right and left heart catheterization N Right and left ventricular digital angiography N Stent implants and grafts “Our Cath Labs are considered to be the best of the best,” said Weedon. “With our third Cath Lab on board and our talented team, we’re focused on growing our excellent Heart Program for the people of our community.” QCBN Bridget O’Gara is a writer, communications strategist and project manager who specializes in health care. She works with mission-driven healthcare organizations, including hospitals, other healthcare providers and advocacy organizations.

Y

avapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC) Foundation Board of Directors Chair Dave Barrett has announced the appointment of Mary Mallory, Arabinda Pani, M.D., and Pierre Tibi, M.D., as the newest members of the board. “We are pleased to welcome individuals who are so Mary Mallory deeply committed to our community’s health and prosperity,” said Barrett.

The Board of Directors for the YRMC Foundation is made up of volunteer members from our community who generously donate their time and expertise to raise funds for YRMC. Each brings his or her wealth of knowledge, new ideas and skills to enrich the Foundation’s fundraising efforts.

Mallory, who serves on the Yavapai County Board of Supervisors, has extensive board experience at both the local and state level. Dr. Pani has been a YRMC Emergency Department physician since 2009 and serves as YRMC’s Chief of Staff. He is widely regarded for his integrity, dedication and leadership throughout the YRMC organization. Dr. Tibi, who was instrumental in the establishment of the James Family Heart Center, is both a philanthropist and fundraiser.

A longtime supporter of the Foundation, he has also sponsored and organized the annual Crawfest event to benefit YRMC’s Partners for Healthy

Arabinda Pani, M.D.

Pierre Tibi, M.D.

Students program.

The three new members join YRMC’s President and CEO John Amos; Dave Barrett; Douglas Bristol; YRMC Foundation Executive Director Robbie Nicol; Harvey Skoog; and William Sonsin to complete the Foundation board’s current membership.

Founded in 1999, the YRMC Foundation’s mission is to support the health and wellness of our community by raising funds to benefit Yavapai Regional Medical Center. All charitable gifts received by the Foundation stay in our community and are utilized as directed by the donor. Donors may designate their gifts to any of the Foundation’s 18 special purpose funds.

To learn more about the YRMC Foundation, please contact 928-771–5169 or foundation@ YRMC.org or visit www.YRMCfoundation.org.

QCBN

18

Quad Cities Business News // MARCH 2021

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MARCH 2021 // Quad Cities Business News

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Quad Cities Business News // MARCH 2021

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The Debt Epidemic: Cure it Forever

By Steven Calabrese, CPA

A

merica is drowning in debt.

The average debt in America increased by $601 billion in the last quarter compared to the previous year. Mortgage debt rose by $120 billion. Student loan debt increased to $1.51 billion. Auto loans increased $16 billion. Credit card debt increased by $46 billion. A train wreck is in the making!

Not only has the outstanding amount of borrowing been steadily increasing, but the delinquencies have grown as well. Credit card delinquencies stand at 8.36%. Student loan delinquencies are at 11%. Auto loans are 5% delinquent. Credit card debt rose to a record $930 billion in the fourth quarter of 2019. According to Yahoo Finance, the total outstanding debt stands at $14 trillion.

If you have one of these loans (or perhaps all of these loans) that are making the banks rich, you are certainly not alone. There is another way. The alternative is to take the bull by the horns and get this debt paid off. Once you have gotten this debt eliminated, you can then enjoy the finer things in life.

What would being free from debt feel like? How does it feel now? Are

you going to work every day to be broke at the end of the week? Is there nothing left over, so you must pull out that nasty credit card and charge expenses? The cycle continues because you only have enough to pay the debt and then when you need something, you charge it. Round and round you go, like a rat on wheel.

Are you dizzy? I am, just from writing that!

Have you had enough? If so, then I can help, and you will find yourself on the path to financial independence.

THE CURE: ELIMINATE DEBT FOREVER

The time has come to make some changes! Turn this into a game and get motivated! Be intense and get on the winning path.

STEP ONE

Get all of your debt pulled together.

List who you make payments to, account numbers, amounts owed, minimum balances due, due dates and interest rates. Include all your debt credit cards, auto loan(s), student loans, personal loans, maybe a payday loan. If you owe someone money then it is a debt; get it listed.

Once you have all that information compiled, add them all up. Most folks

have no idea how much they owe. Add up all the monthly payments as well; this is important. Take a hard look at it. What could you do with that money if you did not need to give it to the banks or lenders you owe?

STEP TWO

Now it is time to get into the details and get started attacking this debt. Do you have a budget? My guess is you do not or you would not be reading this. Prepare your budget. I have been doing budgets for most of my life and have never had a perfect one. They are a plan! Remember, plans can and should be adjusted as new information become available. Without a plan, you are just wondering.

When you do your budget, make certain you include all your debt payments. Do you have enough income to make all your payments? If not, then we have more work to do. The goal is to have your income higher than your payments. We will need extra income to begin to pay down the debt.

Is there something you do not need in your budget? How about cable or some membership? Tighten those expenses. Remember, this is shortterm until you get you finances under control.

If you have an income issue, you

need to make more money. Get a second job, start a side hustle, do whatever it takes to get that debt paid off.

If you need help in building your budget you can find it here: https:// thebiweeklyadvisor.com/10-easysteps-to-creating-a-budget-that-willput-you-on-the-path-to-financial-independence/.

STEP THREE

Get the scissors, get the credit cards and CUT THEM UP! Credit card debt is too easy to fall back into. So, time to break clean.

But, what if I have an emergency?

How will I pay for it? Cash!

As quick as you can, save $1,000.

This will be your short-term emergency fund to get you off of credit cards.

Once you have all your debts paid, you will want to come back and create a three- to six- month emergency fund.

You can read about Emergency Funds here: https://thebiweeklyadvisor.com/six-reasons-why-having-anemergency-fund-is-a-good-idea/.

How do you get the money for an emergency fund? Have a garage sale.

Sell anything not nailed down. You want to have this in place within the first month of your journey.

We are now going to construct your plan to become debt-free.

DEBT AVALANCHE

List your debt from the highest interest rate to the lowest. Begin to attack the first one on the list, making extra principal payments to get it paid off as quickly as you can. Continue to make minimum payments on everything else. Then, once the first one is paid off, use whatever you were paying to attack the next debt. Continue doing this until you have paid off all your debt.

DEBT SNOWBALL

Similar to the avalanche, with one exception: attack the smallest debt to the largest. Pay off the smallest then use that payment and pay off the next smallest until all have been paid. The last one will be the largest and the most difficult because it will take the longest.

LARGEST PAYMENT TO SMALLEST

This method I found to be the most interesting concept. Begin with the highest payment, adding extra and getting it paid off. Place no importance on the amount of the debt or the interest rate. With it being the largest payment the theory is once paid off, you now have this large payment plus Continued on page 36

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MARCH 2021 // Quad Cities Business News

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Making Life Better

O

By Lucy Leyva

ur March ad theme is “A Clean Home Makes Life Better.” This last year has been so hard on so many of us. It literally has changed lives. Not all the changes are negative, however. Some people actually mention positives that have come out of this dark cloud we have all been experiencing. I go into people’s homes and hear the stories of how things are different. Grandparents miss their grandkids, children miss their friends, and the daily routines have been affected. Many have lost or changed jobs and business owners have suffered in many ways, while other businesses have flourished.

What I have noticed is resilience. As the time seems to pass slowly and even though we are not out of the woods

yet, I’ve appreciated and learned from those who have found ways to still live their lives as happily as they can. The resilience is inspiring. Here at Maid to Order, we have had to make adjustments on how we do business, just like so many other industries. Many who have lost jobs have been able to find others, change positions or switch industries. Now, many are finding ways of making life better.

A Pew Research Center poll found that as of June, 22% of American adults had either moved because of the pandemic or knew someone who did. That trend apparently continued into the fall: About 20% more houses sold in November 2020 compared to November 2019, according to U.S. Census Bureau data. The reasons for that trend are likely many. Among them, nearly a year of indoor time

// What I have noticed is resilience. As the time seems to pass slowly and even though we are not out of the woods yet, I’ve appreciated and learned from those who have found ways to still live their lives as happily as they can. //

seems to have prompted many people to look for homes that offer more space, and those who can work from home suddenly have more freedom to move beyond the commuting distance of an office.

Reevaluation is a common reaction to sudden, strange stillness like that brought on by the pandemic, says Dr. Elinore McCance-Katz, who leads the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. “It gives people a lot of time to review their lives and think about what life could look like moving forward,” she said. “For many people, that’s not a bad thing, for them to really spend time taking an inventory of what their life is like currently and what they want it to be like.”

As we come out of the cold winter and look forward to the newness of spring, we can look forward to doing the things that make life better and put a higher priority on what is important, like family, friends, home, health. Get help with things that you need or want help with and do the things you enjoy. We are here to help make that happen. QCBN

21

SBDC Celebrates Cuppers Coffeehouse for Innovative Pivots

W

By Marie Platowski-Beals

hile working with the Yavapai College Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Roy Thomas and his veteran wife purchased Cuppers Coffeehouse on Montezuma from previous partners, right before the pandemic hit. They thought their timing was way off, so they sat down and did some soul searching.

Instead of giving up, they converted an adjacent parking lot into a patio, with cool party lights, patio furniture, patio heaters, a putting green and a doggie area to expand their area for social distancing. They also hired local musicians to perform live concerts on the patio.

They retained 12 employees when other establishments were laying people off. Roy eventually hired nine more employees for the Haunted Kitchen, a vacant restaurant a few doors down. Then, they launched a new location called Cuppers on Cortez and hired an additional three more employees for that establishment.

Sales growth has doubled with the innovative pivots. The added live music, putting green and doggie area on the patio as well as heaters and party lights draw customers now who may not have considered going to a coffee house to spend a relaxing evening.

Cuppers also offers hot and cold sandwiches, quiche, fresh salads and breakfast items, in addition to the most delicious coffee. Stop in and visit either location and tell them the SBDC sent you! QCBN Marie Platowski-Beals is the business analyst at Yavapai College SBDC.

Lucy Leyva is the owner of Prescott Maid to Order.

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Quad Cities Business News // MARCH 2021

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Nine Garden Tasks for Better Gardens This Spring

S

By Ken Lain

pring weather signals the start of specific gardening tasks that are essential to maintaining a vital, healthy garden. I’m a “list” type of gardener and the following is my springtime procedural list in order of personal priority.

1

Finish pruning everything in the yard, including roses, fruit trees, and summer-blooming shrubs. Then, rake up old leaves, cut back dead growth on perennials and remove leftover annuals and vegetables from gardens and containers.

2

Apply “Crabgrass & Weed Preventer.” This granular seed killer stops the worst of early spring foxtails, dandelions and horehounds from emerging in rock lawns and flowerbeds. It must be applied before the weeds develop or it loses effectiveness.

3

Watch for aphids on willows, aspens and apple trees. These pests are easily eliminated with an application of liquid Triple Action. All fruit trees should be sprayed

before their spring bloom. Spray roses at the same time.

Free Gardening Class 9:30 a.m. Every Saturday at Watters Garden Center

4

Feed everything in the landscape by the end of March.

I created an all-natural food especially for the mountain gardens of Arizona, and it really works. Use my All Purpose Plant Food 7-4-4 on lawns, flowerbeds, shrubs, trees and all garden soils you will use for planting. I also administer an application of Soil Sulfur at the same time. If you’re uncertain about what, when and how to feed your garden, ask at Watters for the handout of my 4-step program for feeding a landscape.

Don’t forget your natives! The amount of moisture this year will produce a bumper crop of bark beetles this spring that will seek out weak evergreens. A landscape that is well fed and healthy can defend itself against these vicious forest invaders.

5

Top dress flowerbeds, shrubs and trees with a 2” layer of shredded cedar bark or, if you prefer, composted mulch. This new layer of protection will insulate the roots from the cold nights and drying spring winds that lie ahead. This sim-

March 6: Spring To-Do List for Better Gardens Finally, a to-do list you’ll actually enjoy! This class shares the garden Ps: Preparation, Prevention, Protection and Pruning.

March 13: 59th Spring Open House with 2021 New Plant Introductions This Garden Class is part of a weekend-long event including plant experts and gorgeous new plants! Students learn about all things spring this weekend as we go geeky with plants.

ple act also keeps weeds at bay and encourages better root development.

6

Use my All Purpose Plant Food 7-4-4 to nudge awake old lawns and jump-start new seedlings.

March is the best month to start a new lawn or overseed an old one.

For more detailed advice, ask for my handout 11 ½ Steps to New Lawns and Overseeding.

7

Pine scale should be making its unwelcome appearance in just a matter of days. Watch for signs and treat with my specially formulated Plant Protector. An arborist is not needed to apply this easy-to-use bug solution, and one application protects trees for the entire year. Besides those trees that are attacked by scale, I definitely recommend feeding stressed trees as well. Reading into the theme here?

8

Before planting your garden, cover the area with a 2” layer of composted mulch and manure topped with Calcium Nitrate and my organic Fruit and Vegetable Food 6-4-4-7. Then, turn this organic-rich

material into the garden’s soil to one shovel’s depth. You are now ready to plant spring flowers, herbs and vegetables, and to watch for bumper crops from each!

9

Go ahead and plant early spring flowers and vegetables as soon as the soil is prepped. Cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, garlic and onions have already arrived at the garden center. Pansies, violas, dusty millers, English primroses, poppies and early spring blooming perennials also are ready for planting. All of these plants love the warm days and the chilly nights of early spring.

That’s the list. Indulge your garden with these minimal maintenance tasks, and you’ll find your spring flowers brighter, the evergreens greener, and your spring growth more exciting than ever.

Until next issue, I’ll be helping gardeners here at Watters Garden Center. QCBN

March 20: Evergreen Landscapes and Bark Beetle Prevention This class covers the evergreens that grow most successfully and the simple steps to protect them from stress and environmental intruders like borers, bark beetle and more.

March 27: Gardening 101 - Proper Planting in Mountain Soils This class passes on our tips, tricks and garden hacks straight from the experts to you. Learn techniques for brighter, more beautiful gardens and how to keep them growing. Bring your notepad.

Ken Lain can be found throughout the week at Watters Garden Center, 1815 W. Iron Springs Rd in Prescott, or contacted through the website at WattersGardenCenter.com or FB.com/ WattersGardenCenter.

Arizona to Add Thousands of Jobs by Spring

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new report released by the Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity is projecting strong job growth in the state in the next two years, with the largest gains happening in sectors hit hardest by the pandemic.

“Arizona is a place where opportunities are plentiful and jobs are growing,” said Governor Doug Ducey. “Families and businesses

from across the nation continue to choose Arizona, and it’s resulting in greater employment opportunities for existing residents and newcomers.

Arizona is resilient – and these job projections prove it.”

According to the report, Arizona is expected to gain more than 325,000 jobs between spring 2020 and the same time next year, a 5.5% annualized growth rate. The report predicts

job growth in all 15 counties and all sectors excluding government.

Arizona’s leisure and hospitality sector, which has been hit hard by the pandemic, is expected to bounce back and experience a 12.8% annualized growth rate. That means adding 69,901 jobs — the fastest job growth rate of any sector included in the report. The report also notes Arizona’s manufacturing sector is projected to

experience a 3.1% annualized growth rate, a gain of more than 10,000 jobs and more than 5,000 above pre-pandemic levels.

“In Arizona, jobs are available and employers are ready to hire,” said Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry Interim President and CEO Garrick Taylor. “The projected growth over the next few years is a result of Arizona’s smart policies and

welcoming business climate – and we need to keep it up.”

Arizona’s population grew by nearly 129,000 people from July 2019 to July 2020, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates released in December 2020. QCBN

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Treating Hearing Loss in Children

By Karon Lynn, Au.D.

W

e all know intuitively that you need hearing to learn traditional speech and language. If a child has a hearing loss, especially one that is not detected, the world is confusing and distorted.

Imagine a mom telling her young child that it is bath time. If she does not have a bath towel in her hand or is not walking or pointing toward the bathroom, the little one may not understand what is going on. Or, think about parents sitting in the living room talking about going to the park and going out to lunch. When they stand up to get ready, they wonder why their little one is not excited to go when the other kids are getting their coats on.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF HEARING LOSS IN CHILDREN?

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

and suddenly someone is yelling that you aren’t playing with the others the way you should. What just happened?

I am in trouble? All I was doing was playing with my toys! Social skills in the hearing impaired child do not develop the same as a normal hearing child.

Hearing loss is not as evident as deafness; however, hearing loss is much more common than deafness.

It is reported that two in 1,000 well babies are born with hearing loss and 24% to 46% of babies from the NICU (newborn intensive care unit) have hearing loss. Based on these figures, you can see that hearing loss is a significant issue facing children.

CAUSES OF HEARING LOSS

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

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

speakers in the room that mimic wearing headphones. The child does not even know they are being tested.

It is just a little room with cartoon videos playing.

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

TREATMENT FOR HEARING LOSS

TESTING FOR HEARING LOSS

Today, most babies get a hearing test prior to leaving the hospital when they are born. For home births, a hearing test can be scheduled as an outpatient with an audiologist. A screening test is completed first; then, if there is any question about the hearing, a diagnostic test is ordered.

The test is quick and completely painless. For young children, the test is completed in a small room while the child sits in the caregiver’s lap. The sound comes from special

If a hearing loss is confirmed, the baby or child will be sent to an ENT to rule out hearing loss caused from middle ear fluid. If the hearing loss is determined to be caused by damage to the hearing nerves, then hearing aids are ordered. Today, hearing aids are much more comfortable and have a more natural sound than in years past. The secret to having the best outcome for the child is early hearing aid use. The earlier the better.

The more exposure to sound at the earliest possible age gives the child the best chance of learning speech, language and the necessary social skills to keep up with their peers.

I have fit hearing aids on babies as young as four weeks.

In addition to hearing aids, it is important to enroll the child in speech therapy as quickly as possible. Again, we are racing against the clock and need to expose that beautiful little brain to as much sound and learning

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

A team approach with an audiologist, speech pathologist and the caregivers is imperative to ensure the best opportunity for a successful outcome. QCBN Trinity Hearing Center is located at 1330 N. Rim Dr., Suite B in Flagstaff. For more information, visit TrinityHearing.net.

Karon Lynn, Au.D., is a doctor of audiology with 30 years of experience working with hearing impaired individuals. Dr. Lynn may be reached at 928-522-0500 or at audio@trinityhearing.net.

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pet news

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

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By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

or the first time in her life, Nannette Oatley Johnson has a service dog. Winchester, or Winnie, is a 75-pound, 2-year-old “goldador” – half golden retriever, half Labrador – that has been in training since she was a puppy. Winnie opens doors for Johnson, pulls her through grocery stores and can even pick things up that Johnson may have dropped, like her cell phone, although it may be covered with saliva and scratched up a bit when Johnson gets it back.

The author and motivational speaker calls herself “a sit-down person in a stand-up world.” An athlete all her life and top gymnast as a teenager, Johnson’s life changed dramatically when at age 22 a snow-tubing accident left her a quadriplegic. She ultimately gained back the use of her hands and arms, gave birth to three children post injury, and returned

to athletic competition winning the 2001 U.S. Open Wheelchair Singles and Doubles Championship titles.

Now, at age 61, Johnson can feel the strain of an active life in her joints and she’s happy to have a little help from her service dog. “The greatest thing is when I’m going to the soccer fields to watch my grandson and granddaughter. Winnie helps pull me across cement, dirt and grass. She has a handle on her harness. I grab the handle, and away we go!”

Together with Debbie Lipely, Prescott’s Pawsitively Awesome Dog Trainer, Johnson is teaching Winnie how to assist her with more tasks.

“I’m a dog lover and I’ve always had dogs as companions. But I just had no idea how smart dogs were and what services they can perform for people,” said Johnson. “It’s brought me so much joy knowing she is there for me, to serve and not just love me.

It’s like I went on a journey with her in the last couple of years and that

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

alone has been life-changing to work with her. And it is work!”

Lipely says true service animals are life-changing to the people they help, but there is great confusion around what constitutes a service animal versus a therapy or emotional support animal, and what rights they have.

“There is no such thing as a certified service dog,” she said. “So, it seems everyone makes their own rules.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) doesn’t recognize anything and there’s a lot of chaos surrounding the issue.”

Moran Henn, owner of Above and Beyond Dog Training and Pet Care for more than 20 years who received her dog training as a corporal in the Israeli Air Force, agrees. “There’s no real way to regulate it. You don’t have any certifying entities that determine whether your dog is or is not a service dog, so the problem is anybody can say it is. Some people do go through very professional trainers or organizations that train service dogs.

But, technically, you can train your own service dog. This creates a lot of issues for handlers of service dogs, trainers, businesses, government offices, etc.”

Henn says individuals who blur the lines between actual working service animals and pets with owners who want to bring them along on their outings are causing a disservice to people with disabilities. “The issue now is they are not believed.”

Julie Mumford, a Prescott veterinarian technician, finds this behavior frustrating. “A lot of these dogs are not socialized correctly. They put other people in danger. And it’s not fair to those who have put the time and money into training their animals. It’s a lot of work, especially for seeing-eye dogs, it’s really super intense training.”

Mumford suffers from a condition called “syncopal disorder,” which causes her to black out. Her fainting episodes began to increase a couple of years ago and she has suffered concussions because of it. So, now, she lives with a golden retriever named Willow, a service dog who alerts her

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

Courtesy photo

before she’s about to lose consciousness.

“I don’t know when it’s going to happen. There’s no warning. I can hit my head and injure myself, but Willow can detect it ahead of time.

She alerts me to it and I’m able to sit down.”

The 43-year-old Mumford says Willow is a vital part of her life and her co-workers feel more comfortable when Willow is around as well.

“She’ll mouth my hand to alert me. If I ignore her, she’ll get more persistent. She’ll jump on me or whine if I’m ignoring her. She’ll get to the point of barking at me.”

Mumford says Willow works hard.

“We’re asking a lot of these animals and it’s mentally difficult.”

Lipely, Henn Johnson and Mumford all emphasize the word “work” when they talk about service animals.

And that is an important distinction for businesses and pet owners to understand when it comes to service animals.

“The term ‘service dog’ is a dog that is specifically trained to conduct a task – that assists a person with a disability. So the key is an animal that is ‘trained to perform a task,’” said Henn. “The task can be everything from a very elaborate seeing eye dog that does a thousand tasks, like stopping before crossing the street and waiting for a closed door to open, to a service dog that’s just trained to put its paw on your thigh to create pressure, lick you, create a barrier between you and somebody else, turn on lights, pull a wheelchair or pick up something off the floor.”

Henn notes that service animals don’t have to just be dogs, noting that Continued on page 27

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Does Your Horse Have a Drinking Problem?

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By Cheyenne Brown

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

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

MONITOR WATER INTAKE

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

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

HEATED WATERERS

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

SALT, ELECTROLYTES AND FLAVORS

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

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

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

MARCH 2021 // Quad Cities Business News

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Ready For a Walk?

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By Loree Walden

o you sometimes feel that taking your dog out for a walk is more of a chore than an enjoyment? In all honesty, I can say that, for me, sometimes it does feel that way. Waking up early, piling on warm clothes and boots and having to go out is not my idea of a good time, especially if it’s snowing or raining. The funny thing is that once I get out there and start walking with my girl, I almost immediately have an “attitude adjustment” and start to get a little pep in my step and enjoy my time outside with her. I find myself talking to her about what the day is going to hold, telling her how cute she is, stopping with her to look at a plant or flower and just enjoying nature. Then, later, after a long day at work, the last thing I used to want to do is come home and go out for another walk, but I have gotten to the point now where I look forward to that time, as well. By heading out with my girl, I get to talk to her and tell her about my day and it just seems to make all the stress of the day go away. I know she craves my attention and I love spending one-on-one time with her and making our bond even more special every day. I pur-

posely don’t bring my cell phone with me so that I can be in the moment with her and leave technology behind for a while!

Not only is walking your dog a great stress reducer and time to commune with nature, but it also helps to keep both you and your dog healthy.

It’s a great way for dogs to burn off some energy and help with joint health, especially if they just tend to lay around all day while you’re at work. I know my girl comes running to the front door when I get home and can’t wait to get out there and go, go, go! Our time out walking is exercise for her and for me, and what’s great is that it doesn’t even really feel like I’m exercising. We usually walk for 30 minutes every morning and every afternoon, which means that I’m getting an average of an hour of exercise every day and she is, too, which is a good thing, as she is a big fan of treats and I haven’t mastered the art of saying no to her!

Another benefit of taking your dog out for a walk is socialization for both of you! When you meet up with other dog people, there is almost always some sort of conversation that happens while your furry friends check each other out. It gives you an opportunity to make new friends and

possibly even make future playdates for your dogs. My dog is really friendly and will pretty much try to love on everybody she meets. There are a couple of ladies in the senior community near my apartment who are always sitting outside when Cassidy and I are out, and she runs right up to them. They get such a kick out of it and love spending time with her, while she’s loving on them. Along with socializing dogs to other people and animals, while out walking, they are also experiencing new smells and sounds and getting mental stimulation.

Perhaps the greatest benefit of taking your dog out for a walk is that one-on-one time you have with it.

My dog is learning to trust me more when I say, “It’s OK, I got ya,” when she sees a bigger dog or a loud car or truck goes by and spooks her. I love when we’re walking and she’s ahead of me and stops and looks at me to make sure I’m there and then we continue on. It’s almost like she’s saying, “Come on, mom. Let’s do this together.” Taking your dog for walks every day offers the opportunity for both of you to continue to bond because you both get to spend time together each day, which helps create a strong and happy relationship. Your dog is also

SERVICE DOGS continued from page 24

monkeys have the ability to handle tasks like helping an owner brush their teeth. Service animals are allowed to go wherever the person they are helping goes, and training one can cost up to $20,000. She says service dogs are not emotional support animals, which are animals that put people at ease or make them feel better. They are not therapy dogs either, which might be found with volunteers in nursing homes, libraries and hospitals. “They are not performing any tasks, they are just friendly and only need basic training,” said Henn.

As Lipely stresses, service animals must be invisible. “They‘re supposed to be there for the person, not supposed to even acknowledge another dog. If they are distracted from their handler, they are not actually doing their job.”

And that’s when Henn says businesses can send an animal and its owner on their way.

“Businesses trying to do the right thing don’t have to allow dogs or other animals in that are not well behaved. And people attending any kind of business have the right not to be disturbed by a pet,” she said. “A dog wearing a service dog vest should not grab a sandwich from a kid standing in line. A dog should not be whining, barking, growling or jumping. If an animal is creating a nuisance, the behavior should be documented to protect the business owner.”

Forcing the issue recently have been airlines.

In recent years, they’ve received far more complaints about animals allowed on flights than

ever before – animals like squirrels, peacocks, small horses and iguanas. In December 2020, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) announced revisions to its Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). The final rule defines a service animal as a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability. DOT no longer considers an emotional support animal to be a service animal.

In addition, the new DOT rule allows airlines to require people flying with a service animal to fill out a special form up to 48 hours in advance of travel. They’ll also be allowed to require that a service animal fit within its handler’s foot space on the plane.

Business owners confused about the rules have the legal right to ask what specific task the animal performs, but may not ask about the disability. Lipely advises her clients to carry a doctor’s note explaining the need for the service animal. She also makes herself available by phone if a client needs her to explain the situation.

As for the hard-working service animals, both Johnson and Mumford say their dogs know that when the vest comes off, they are no longer on the job.

“When her equipment is off, we call her ‘Wild Winnie,’” said Johnson. “I’ve seen her jump over an end table from the couch. She’s allowed to be all dog, all puppy, all fun and all wild.” QCBN

likely to be more well-behaved and listen to you better when you have a good, strong bond. It’s fun to watch her explore new things that she sees or smells, and I sometimes have to chuckle at her curiosity, especially when she’s looking at something and then looks up at me almost as if to say, “What’s this?” She’s made me try

to look at the world with the same curiosity as she has, and it has made me think about even the simplest things a little differently. Who knew walking your dog could do so much? QCBN Loree Walden is the marketing manager for Yavapai Humane Society.

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Snowbowl Ski Pawtrol Ava the avalanche rescue dog is trained to find skiers under the snow

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

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

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

Ava, an English Cream Golden Retriever, is Snowbowl’s first avalanche rescue dog. She was introduced to the mountain resort when Hagerty was an undergraduate student in public health at Northern Arizona University. “My capstone project was to start this Avalanche Rescue Dog Program up here.”

As she developed her project, Hagerty pitched the idea to Snowbowl.

Today, at age 26, Hagerty is an EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) on Ski Patrol as well as a nurse at Flagstaff Medical Center. Ava, her dog and co-worker, grew up on the mountain and now is a mom of six pups – all of which have found homes in Flagstaff.

“When people see us, they are welcome to come over and say hello and ask about what she does and ask to pet her,” said Hagerty. “Oftentimes she is working, so you can’t pet her then. But if you’re lucky enough to catch us on the mountain, we’d love to meet you!”

Hagerty grew up in Tucson, but has been skiing in Telluride since she was 6, while visiting her family’s home in nearby Dolores, Colorado. She also has always loved dogs and learned from other dog trainers before she began working with Ava. “Ava has had years of training, we go nonstop.

She comes to work about 30 hours a week and trains probably for a couple hours every day. Some of it is training on a seach and rescue drill. Some of it is training on riding chair lifts and snow mobiles and being around on mountain operations.”

Snowbowl’s Assistant Ski Patrol Director and Snow Safety Coordinator Derik Spice says dogs can be a key tool

in search and rescue efforts because of their acute sense of smell and ability to cover more ground than humans.

“The goal is to expand the dog program,” he said, “to ensure rescue readiness every day at the ski area, since Ava, of course, has days off, too.”

Despite avalanche safety efforts, the 2020-21 winter season already has proven to be among the deadliest in U.S. history. At least 22 people have died – more than half were skiers and snowboarders. The deadliest week in a century occurred from Jan. 30 to Feb. 6, 2021, when more than 15 perished.

Included among the victims were four skiers who were caught in Utah’s Mill Creek Canyon avalanche on a steep, north facing slope on Saturday, Feb. 6.

Four survived the event. Reports say they all were experienced skiers who were carrying avalanche safety gear such as beacons, shovels and probes.

Spice says avalanches are most likely to occur after fresh snowfall adds another layer to a snowpack. An overloaded snowpack can set off a slide.

“We are concerned about avalanches when we receive eight inches of snow in 12 hours or 12 inches in 24 hours; significant wind transport; or even a rain on snow event,” said Spice. “The wind is a big factor, too.”

He also attributes some of the danger to more people wanting to be out in the backcountry because of COVID-19 restrictions. He says avalanche education is crucial for venturing outside of the ski area. The Kachina Peaks Avalanche Center, a local non-profit organization, provides courses and information about conditions on the San Francisco Peaks. Information can be found at kachinapeaks.org.

To reduce the risk, Snowbowl Ski Patrol members set off explosives in the upper bowl within the ski area to shake free unstable layers when dangerous amounts of snow accumulate.

“One of our main jobs is to mitigate avalanche hazards before terrain can be opened to the public,” said Spice.

“The best chance for survival in an avalanche is to have a beacon, shovel, probe and a partner trained and ready to rescue,” said Hagerty. “But in the instance that they don’t have a beacon with them, a dog is their best chance of being found.”

Although Ava knows the drill and is ready to jump into action, Hagerty hopes the Ski Patrol never has to use her. “We hope she’s really here as a reminder for people to travel safely while they are in avalanche terrain, as well as just being safe on the mountain by being in control and avoiding collisions and making sure everybody has a great safe time at Snowbowl.”

QCBN

Top: Ava rides on Hailey’s shoulders as she skis the slopes. Avalanche drills include games like hide and seek and tug of war to prepare for an emergency when skiers might be buried under snow. Bottom: Hailey Hagerty’s NAU capstone project turned into an Avalanche Rescue Dog Program at Arizona Snowbowl, where she and Ava train for hours each week. Photos by Bonnie Stevens

MARCH 2021 // Quad Cities Business News

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// MAYOR’S ADDRESS // BY GREG MENGARELLI

Staying Firewise to Reduce Wildfire Risks in Our Community

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ven though winter only recently decided to make an appearance, it is always important to remember that in our area, fire season is still just around the corner as we approach late spring and early summer. While it is the ultimate goal of the Prescott Fire Department and other agency partners to continually focus on preparedness, it’s still imperative that we do not let our guard down. In fact, Prescott Fire Chief Dennis Light points out that, historically, some of the biggest campaign fires that have occurred in Arizona come immediately following a wet winter season, and given the dry nature of 2020, staff is working particularly hard this spring and summer to protect our community. To that end, we are fortunate to have a number of important resources available to us to prevent and fight wildland fires, and to protect your property or business.

In an effort to mitigate, prevent and suppress wildfires, the City of Prescott and the Prescott Fire Department partner with Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority, Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, the Bureau of Land Manage-

ment and Prescott National Forest.

When the need arises, we call upon all our local partners – and when necessary, those from around the southwest – to provide suppression of fires in our wildland urban interface and other forested areas. Regional partnerships and interagency cooperation are truly the key to maintaining positive stewardship of our wildland interface. We are fortunate to have so many valuable partners in the community.

Another key to managing wildfire suppression is the Prescott National Forest, which manages the public lands surrounding our city. In addition to the Bradshaw Ranger District fire personnel, the Prescott National Forest has the Henry H. Kim Fire Center at the Prescott Regional Airport. This facility holds a large cache of supplies and an expert staff that is primarily responsible for all of Arizona, New Mexico and parts of Texas. At peak season, the Fire Center can have as many as 60-70 professionals specializing as pilots, communications specialists, supply management teams, logistics experts, and firefighters, including the Prescott

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The Henry H. Kim Fire Center at the Prescott Regional Airport often hosts a number of aircraft from helicopters to large air tankers during fire season.

Courtesy photos

Interagency Hotshot Crew, established in 1973. The Fire Center is capable of hosting a number of aircraft of various sizes, from helicopters to the large air tankers. This is a well-equipped facility that hosts local, regional and national suppression resources, serving as part of a large network of fire suppression resources that can be mobilized in response to significant fire events.

Beyond our interagency partnerships, citizens can also do their part in affording our local firefighters a winning chance to save lives and property while maintaining forest health by ensuring “defensible space” in and around their property. It is critically important to clean your roof and gutters of leaf litter, pine needles and other debris regularly. Interested citizens may submit an application for a Fuel’s Mitigation Grant to assist in covering costs for protecting their property. For additional details, visit prescott-az. gov/services-safety/fire/programs-services/fuel-mitigation-grant/.

Trees should be trimmed in such a way that the ladder fuels (those lower hanging branches) are cut away and no limb overhangs a residence or is placed any closer than 10 feet. In order to aid residents with this type of clean up, every Saturday during the month

of June, the city offers free brush drop off. Outside storage of firewood piles, propane tanks and other combustible materials should be provided adequate separation from any and all residences, sheds and work spaces.

When considering landscaping, community members are encouraged to select, space and maintain fire-resistant plants and shrubs in order to minimize fire spread. Allowing firefighters clear operating spaces around a residence equal to 100 feet will allow them the chance to engage the fire directly or indirectly, while enhancing their ability to save the property without added risk or compromise of firefighter safety.

Prescott Area Wildland Interface Commission (PAWUIC) is a great educational resource to help citizens manage the risk of fire damage to their property. To learn more, visit yavapaifirewise.org.

We should all be confident in our community’s capacity to reduce risk and keep each other safe. Every agency and individual involved in the protection of our community is simply the best. QCBN Greg Mengarelli is the mayor of Prescott.

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Top Five Mistakes Owners Make in Managing Properties

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By Cooper Anderson

roperty management can be a big and sometimes overwhelming job. Here are some of the most common mistakes that can make the job of being a landlord more difficult.

COMMON MISTAKE #1: NEGLECTING, DEFERRING MAINTENANCE

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It has been my experience that deferred maintenance is the No. 1 most common problem.

As a property owner and landlord, it is your responsibility to keep the buildings in good, operable condition. Not only is this necessary for its value, but also for the safety and satisfaction of your tenants. Happy tenants are long-term tenants. One of the most common problems in commercial building ownership is deferring too much of the maintenance, from simple repairs to major structural ones.

This is why an owner (or management company) should be looking at that building every month. Sometimes a problem, when caught immediately, can be a minor expense. But if left too long, it can begin to require major repair. It’s just like having routine medical checkups. You need to catch problems ahead of time and fix them before they get worse.

The same rule applies when a tenant reports an issue. A tenant shouldn’t have to request maintenance more than once.

COMMON MISTAKE #2: INCOMPLETE, LACK OF, OR CONFUSING RECORD KEEPING

There are a few ways that owners drop the ball with paperwork. One of the biggest problems is when you don’t get adequate information from tenants. This can be because of simply overlooking it, or just being lazy. Whatever the reason may be, a landlord must properly screen a tenant. How can that be done with little to no information on them? I have seen the lack of proper tenant information and screening lead to legal issues for owners. It could also wind up costing you more than a vacant property would.

Often, a landlord becomes very lax in lease agreements and renewals. I have seen so many lease conflicts that could have been avoided had proper lease documents been used.

// Sometimes a problem, when caught immediately, can be a minor expense. But if left too long, it can begin to require major repair. It’s just like having routine medical checkups. You need to catch problems ahead of time and fix them before they get worse. //

Additionally, every agreement, eviction, notice or contract should be saved. You don’t know when you may need documents for court.

You should always have separate documents for each agreement. This will make any potential legal issue much easier to sort if it comes to court proceedings.

COMMON MISTAKE #3: NOT BEING CLEAR AND CONSISTENT WITH TENANT RULES

Tenants need to have clear and concise rules and boundaries. I have landlords who hire our services simply because they have become “friends” with the tenants, and now, those boundaries are so blurred they find it difficult to enforce any of the lease terms or rules of their building. All rules and expectations should be in writing and signed by the tenants.

If it is not in writing, it does not exist.

COMMON MISTAKE #4: FRIVOLOUS FINANCIAL MISTAKES

One common costly financial mistake with property management is putting security deposits into your account and then using those funds for operating expenses. Technically, that security deposit still belongs to the tenant. The agreement to return the tenant’s security deposit is contingent on them fulfilling their end of the lease agreement. Even the IRS handles rules for deposits the same way at tax time.

That’s one of the reasons you should always place security deposits in a trust account. If you don’t, the deposit becomes part of the operating funds. That means you risk not having the funds available for moving tenants you rightfully owe them to. You might also have to pay taxes and interest on the money for not following accounting rules.

Pay attention to repair estimates; there’s a fine line between going too cheap and saving a penny, only to spend a dime later to fix costly mistakes made by the first vendor. It is imperative that you build a strong relationship with repair vendors who are reputable and will stand by their work.

COMMON MISTAKE #5: NOT HAVING PROFESSIONALS IN PLACE

Property management is a huge responsibility, with many moving parts. If you’re growing overwhelmed from handling the responsibility on your own, it may be time for you to hire a company to do your management. You need time to focus on the investment portion of your business. Hire experts in the business to help you operate smoothly, accumulate wealth, and continue to flourish.

When managing a property, you should use what you’ve learned and be thorough with your processes. The best way to avoid common property management mistakes is to learn from those experienced in the commercial management business. QCBN Cooper Anderson at Bloom Tree Realty is a realtor, commercial property manager and leasing specialist in the Quad Cities area.

MARCH 2021 // Quad Cities Business News

@quadcitiesbusinessnews

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Hot Stone Massage: Ancient Therapy Proven Effective

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By Mark Love

rior to the 20th century, natural medicines and therapies were the only real medicines available. Within the last 100 years, science-based medicine has become the accepted model. Ancient practices were disregarded and were not part of standard medical care, also known as conventional or Western medicine.

However, in the 1960s and ’70s, a new culture that embraced alternative, or non-Western, medicine began to emerge in the United States.

Complementary Therapy, a term developed in the U.S. that means add value to or in addition to (not free), describes the relationship between non-mainstream (Eastern) practices and conventional (Western) medical care. Since that time, Complementary and Alternative Medicine has continued to gain popularity in the U.S. and has become more widely accepted in the medical community for the health and general wellness benefits offered.

A recent National Health Interview Survey, an annual study in which tens of thousands of Americans answer questions about their health, revealed that approximately one-third of U.S. adults use complementary health

approaches. Furthermore, about 59 million Americans spend money out of pocket on complementary health approaches – to the tune of $30.2 billion a year. These figures reveal Americans value the health benefits of ancient therapies.

One of the ancient therapies on the rise is the use of smooth stones. The use of stones and gemstones for healing purposes is diverse, dating back thousands of years. Many cultures are credited with the tradition of using hot stones for physical and spiritual purposes. These traditions include laying stones in patterns on the body, carrying or wearing stones for health and protection, using stones to diagnose and treat disease and for ceremonial uses such as in sweat lodges and medicine wheels.

THE EMERGENCE OF HOT STONE MASSAGE

The modern-day stone massage was born in the U.S. The use of heated stones in massage was reborn in 1993 via LaStone Therapy, created

by Mary Nelson. Since that time, stone massage has blossomed into an accepted therapy, especially when combined with massage. Through the years, the full-body hot stone massage has evolved to include deep tissue

work, facials, pedicures, manicures and meridian therapy.

HOW HOT STONE MASSAGE WORKS

The principle behind hot stone massage therapy is that the direct heat of the stones relaxes muscles, allowing the therapist access to the deeper muscle layers. The hot stones expand blood vessels, which encourage blood flow throughout the body. The stones also have a sedative effect that can relieve chronic pain, reduce stress and promote deep relaxation.

The stones used in hot stone massage are usually basalt stones, which are smooth, natural stones polished over time by lying in rivers and streams. The stones are heated up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

After applying massage oil or lotion on the skin and, in most cases, a thin barrier between the stones in the massage area, the therapist gently glides the stones over the areas, using specific motion to enhance the therapeutic benefits.

Stone massage, when done correctly, is one of the most relaxing forms of massage a person can receive.

Massage therapists who are certified in stone therapy can significantly enhance the benefits of a full body

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massage and help create lasting results, including relief from the pain associated with fibromyalgia, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome and other chronic conditions; decreased muscle pain, tension and spasms; and less chronic stress and tension.

Massage Envy’s specially trained therapists adhere to strict protocols to ensure a pain-free, heart-, bodyand muscle-warming experience with lasting health benefits. While a hot stone massage is generally considered safe for most people when performed by a trained therapist or practitioner, it is not right for everyone. It is recommended to check with your

doctor prior to having a hot stone therapy session if you have any heart, vascular or autoimmune condition or are undergoing treatment for cancer or other chronic illness. QCBN Mark Love is the Franchisee of Massage Envy Spa – Prescott, located at 120 E. Sheldon St., by the Sprouts grocery store. For more information on the benefits of massage and to schedule an appointment with a massage therapist, visit MassageEnvy. com, call 928-778-ENVY (3689) and follow on Facebook at Facebook. com/MassageEnvyPrescott.

Schedule an appointment online – your time, your convenience, your massage.

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Quad Cities Business News // MARCH 2021

quadcitiesbusinessnews.com

How Can You Improve Your Credit Score?

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By Paula Gilbert

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

Here’s how.

YOUR CREDIT SCORE IS CALCULATED BASED ON SEVERAL FINANCIAL FACTORS.

Credit scores are based on your credit report – a history of what you’ve borrowed, how you’ve paid your debt and more. Five factors are considered for your score: N Payment history – do you make all payments on time, or have you missed a few here and there? This accounts for 35% of your credit score.

N Credit utilization – a ratio of how much credit you’re using to how much overall revolving credit you

have. For example, if you have one N Credit inquiries – the number of “hard” inquiries to your credit. credit card with a $10,000 limit and Hard inquiries are made when your balance on that card is $2,000, you apply for credit and the lender your credit utilization would be checks, or “pulls,” your credit.

20%. Credit utilization makes up Inquiries make up 10% of your 30% of your score. credit score.

N Age of credit – an average “age” of your credit accounts. If you had a CREDIT SCORES ARE USED mortgage for 10 years and a credit TO PREDICT YOUR LOAN card for two, your average age of REPAYMENT HABITS. credit would be 6 years. Age of If you pay all your bills on time and credit makes up 15% of your score. keep your accounts open for several years, you’re likely to be considered N Credit mix – the types of accounts a safe bet for lenders. On the other you have, like credit cards, student hand, if you miss several payments loans, auto loans and mortgages. on other loans, lenders may not want This is about 10% of your score. to risk extending credit to you in case

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

Harnessing the Power to Not Give Up

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By Debbie Maranville

ave you ever heard someone say that they grew up with strong family values? I have to say that I did. They were a bit unusual, however. My father, a blue-collar man, always instilled the power in my siblings and me to press on and give it our best. Whether it was with school, sports or jobs, my father always demonstrated a can-do mindset and that neither giving up nor failure was an option.

// Research shows that most people struggle with staying motivated and reaching their goals.

Just look at how many people go on diets, lose weight and then gain it back again. //

Thankfully, I have found that as an adult, I am grateful for his leadership in our family. Now, we definitely were not the perfect family. My parents divorced when I was in junior high. This seemed to be a tragedy for all. My parents were still committed to doing their best and never gave up their roles with my siblings and me. My mother and father worked multiple jobs to provide for us. Mom relocated to a different state and did her best. My father remarried and I was blessed to have two more brothers and a sister. Wow, a total of seven. We have all grown up and can share great success stories about our education, jobs and raising our own families.

As the years went on, establishing goals as well as achieving goals was a big success for me. There were some natural struggles; however, I have been blessed to have great mentors and corporate coaches to bring me back to center.

Research shows that most people struggle with staying motivated and reaching their goals.

Just look at how many people go on diets, lose weight and then gain it back again.

During the COVID-19

pandemic, there has been much tragedy and devastation with families and businesses. The loss of a loved one or the unfortunate happening of a business closing down has been right in our backyards.

Weddings have been postponed.

Couples that spent months and years planning their special day have had to shift and adjust. As a caterer, I have met many couples who did not give up and have created beautiful new memories. With some additional twists and shifting, love does not give up.

We must continue moving forward.

“Galatians 6:9 (NIV) Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” QCBN

Debbie Maranville is the co-owner of Goods from the Garden, Catering & Events and The Natural Healing Garden.

Contact Goods from the Garden. We are located at the Prescott Gateway Mall.

3250 Gateway Blvd. #516 Prescott, AZ 86303 928-237-3214 goodsfromgarden@gmail.com or check out our Facebook page.

you decide not to repay them. It’s not just banks and credit unions that look at your score. Next time you consider applying for a store credit card or financing a large furniture or electronics purchase, they’ll check your credit, too.

POTENTIAL LANDLORDS AND EMPLOYERS MAY CHECK YOUR CREDIT.

When you apply for a new job, you may be asked to consent to a credit check. Your potential employer will look at things like late payments, the amount of debt you have, and other indicators that may tell them whether you are responsible with your money.

Employers do this to look for red flags that might indicate whether you are more likely to commit theft or fraud. Likewise, a potential landlord may look at similar indicators to determine if you are likely to pay your rent on time.

You can raise your credit score with three simple steps.

Worried about a low credit score? Boost it by focusing on the big factors – payment history, credit utilization and age of credit.

N Prioritize your loan payments – like credit cards, auto loans, mortgages and student loans – as late payments will negatively impact your score and will stay on your credit report for seven years.

N Keep your credit utilization below 30%. As you get close to 100%, focus on making bigger payments to your credit cards to lower your utilization.

N Paid off a credit card? Congratulations! Don’t close the account, though – doing so may drop your age of credit. Keep it open, even if you’re not using the card. QCBN Paula Gilbert is the branch manager for OneAZ Credit Union’s Flagstaff branch.

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

Introducing James Porter at The Landings

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By Gail Hitt

Prescott Valley native, Jim Porter has worked in the area for 22 years for the mechanical contractor involved in the installation of the HVAC at The Landings of Prescott Valley. It’s an understatement to say Jim knows this beautiful building from top to bottom and from inside to out.

Jim served in the Marine Corps for four years on duty in the West Pacific.

He’s been married 32 years and has one daughter and two grandchildren. Jim’s hobbies are poker and honey-dos.

As the maintenance manager, Jim’s responsibilities are different each day.

On any given day, Jim could be testing the nurse call stations in each of The Landings’ 106 units. Each unit has three call stations for maximum resident safety – two in the bathroom and one bedside. During our recent snow days, Jim was out shoveling and spreading ice melt long before the sun came up.

Our residents will love springtime planting in the two raised garden beds Jim is in the process of building. Those residents who chose a courtyard access room will get to enjoy the soothing sounds of the water fountain Jim con-

structed. He has even completed the Food Handlers course so he can help out in the dining room.

Jim’s responsibilities also include oversight of the housekeeping crew and any trades working in the building.

The Landings of Prescott Valley is very fortunate to have someone with Jim’s knowledge in so many areas and his willingness to always pitch in. QCBN Safety continues to be a priority for anyone visiting, so please call in advance to schedule a tour with Georgie. She can be reached at 714-514-1844 or email at tlpv. mkt@algsenior.com.

Be sure to visit our webpage, prescottvalleyseniors.com, and our Facebook page for more information. If you have already visited, please consider writing a Google review.

We are accepting deposits! A deposit guarantees your choice of apartment with a view you love. Find out what makes The Landings of Prescott Valley the premier unique senior community offering comfort and luxury Gail Hitt is the executive director of The Landings of Prescott Valley. She may be reached at 928-445-3669 or email at tlpv. adm@algsenior.com

MARCH 2021 // Quad Cities Business News

@quadcitiesbusinessnews

33

It Pays to Take Care of Your Plumbing

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elcome to “At Home With Tom & Sandy.” We are here to give you the inside scoop and tips on taking care of your plumbing. Settle in, enjoy and take these precautions to ensure you do not have plumbing issues in your home.

Unexpected situations can occur, so an astute, shrewd look around your home can make the difference between a problem or potential crisis being caught early or a problem or potential crisis that can lead to damage and a huge expense and repairs.

The average household plumbing system represents an investment of about 15% of the value of the house.

Nothing in the house is used more often and a smoothly functioning plumbing system is a pin to health and adds to the convenience of modern living.

DRAINS

Sandy: Tom, did you know that plumbers get more calls to open clogged drains than for any other service. Many such calls could be prevented by greater care in the use of drains and what one puts down a drain.

The most-used drains that are clogged the most often are the toilets and the garbage disposals.

Preventing clogs can be done by carefully watching what is emptied into the garbage disposal and what is flushed down the toilet.

Tom: We always tell our clients when moving into their home, never ever flush baby wipes or anything that says “disposal” down a toilet, not even Kleenex. The only item that you should be flushing down the toilet drain is toilet paper.

Sandy: There is another set of rules for what should be put down a garbage disposal. I, for one, know that I never put grease or oil down my garbage disposal. Throughout the ages, people have used the garbage disposal to rid the kitchen of slimy, sticky and stinky things. Well, not really throughout the ages, just since its invention was in 1927. Since that exciting day, the garbage disposal has become an appliance of legend and wonder. Despite what you may have heard, not everything can go into a garbage disposal. It’s called a garbage disposal, not an in-sink trashcan.

Boy, we have all been there and “done that,” as they say, and learned the

hard way about what to not put down a disposal. Most of the time, the “hard way” seems to come in the middle of a Thanksgiving dinner or major celebration gathering.

Tom: So, besides grease and oil, I know there are limits to what a garbage disposal system can handle; it’s not equipped to process everything you might want to put in it.

Sandy: Just because it is out of sight does not mean the garbage disposal “disposed” of it. For the most part, garbage disposal systems can handle liquids. The problem with grease is that, when it cools down, it solidifies inside your drain and creates clogs. For that reason, you should avoid putting oil and fats in your disposal unit. Pour the grease or oil into another container and toss into the garbage.

Tom: Here is another danger item to never put down a disposal: vegetable peels. They can leave you with a soupy, backfilled mess in your sink. Fibrous foods such as celery, asparagus, artichokes, chard, kale, lettuce, potato and onion skins should all be kept out of your garbage disposal unit. These items can easily entangle the blades, causing the garbage disposal to jam.

Sandy: I had an eggshell emergency call to a plumber once. Did you know that the membrane on the inside of the eggshell just loves to wrap around the blades and crate a clog? Don’t even attempt to grind eggshells – garbage can them.

Tom: I heard that coffee grounds can cause problems. The first few times they might go down fine, but over time, those pesky little grounds build up in the pipes and will cause all sorts of trouble. Again, garbage can them!

Sandy: When you do use your disposal, put items down in small batches. Do not bulk feed the disposal.

You are just asking for trouble. Grind up the material well, with cold running water and then add more. I do use my garbage disposal, only with care and caution. Most everything goes into the trash after having learned my lesson with eggshells. Use the disposal with common sense.

Tom: I clean my disposal every week with lemon rinds, and baking soda and vinegar once a week to keep it clean with no build-up of grease or food. I say love your InSinkErator and almost everyone is the proud owner of a garbage

disposal. They are convenient, they get rid of excess kitchen scraps, but keep in mind, we should not think there’s nothing a garbage disposal can’t do.

WATER HEATERS

You can’t get along without hot water.

Therefore, take care of the source – the water heater.

Tom: If you have a gas or electric water heater, keep the temperature dial setting at or below the suggested Factory Energy Savings Settings listed on the water heater. Above that mark means excessive wear on the water heater and the potential for scalding.

The burner of a gas-fired water heater is easily accessible and should be checked by your plumber periodically to keep it clear of dust or sediment. The flame at full fire should be a light to dark blue. If the flame is more orange or yellow, the gas pressure or air flow needs to be adjusted.

Sandy: All domestic water heaters are required to be equipped with a relief valve as a safety feature to prevent damage from excessive pressure and temperature. There is always the danger that this valve may become frozen or corroded from long disuse. For this reason, it is advisable to trip the lever of this valve manually every two or three months to be sure it will operate freely if an emergency arises. Note: The discharge will be hot water that will need to be contained in a pan or bucket or allowed to drain to a floor drain.

Sandy: There are three general types of noises found in plumbing systems. These are water hammer, whistling and chattering. Most of the calls I receive are water hammer calls.

Water hammer is the thump in the piping heard when faucets or valves are turned off abruptly. There is no excuse for water hammer. It can usually be eliminated by the installation of an air chamber or short length of pipe in the wall where each supply pipe enters a plumbing fixture.

In some cases, however, the ordinary type of air chamber will not prevent water hammer. In such cases, special devices known as shock arrestors should be installed on the main line near the meter or as close as possible to the cause of the noise.

ODORS IN THE PLUMBING SYSTEM

The well-designed and correctly installed plumbing system is odorless.

Odors are most likely to arise from leaks in the waste or vent piping or from traps which have lost their water seal. In an incorrectly installed system, there are, of course, many opportunities for odors to result from defects in the system, particularly if it is not properly vented.

Tom: Unusual odors should never be ignored. Such odors are often an indication that sewer gas is present.

Sewer gas, while not deadly, is noxious and capable of causing headaches and other minor illnesses. Sewer gas is foul smelling air and should be prevented NOISES IN THE PLUMBING from entering the house.

SYSTEM The traps and vents control the In designing the plumbing system for sewer air. They do so by a very simple a new house, a plumbing contractor method. Sewer air will not penetrate will endeavor to make it as noiseless a water barrier. Therefore, a device is as possible. Manufacturers of plumbemployed which keeps several inches ing fixings are making every effort to of water between the house air and reduce the noise connected with the the sewer air. This is the trap, which is operation of their equipment, and contractors have been very successful in plainly visible under such plumbing eliminating much of the noise formerly fixtures as sinks and lavatories. It is built into water closets. In the case of associated with plumbing systems. bathtubs and shower cabinets, it is usuTom: Because so much of the noise ally concealed in the floor or basement. is due to water traveling at a high velocity, it follows that whatever can be done to reduce the velocity of the water WHERE AND HOW TO SHUT OFF will correspondingly reduce the noise WATER in the system. It is for this reason that it Sandy: It is critical to know where is so important not to skimp on the size and how to shut off the main water of the water supply piping. Larger pipe for the entire house in an emergency. will not only provide a more adequate That’s why it is extremely important supply of water but will reduce noise. for all members of the family to know

where the valves are and in which direction they should be turned to shut off the water.

Tom: It is also important to have water shut off valves to the toilets, sinks, ice makers, washing machines services; i.e. oiled and greased and even changed out every couple of years. These shut off valves do corrode over time and you don’t want to find out that they don’t function properly when you need to shut off the water.

Plumbing problems seem to occur at the most inconvenient times — because the most inconvenient times are generally during seasons or events that put stress on your pipes. We have given you some important tips to follow to prevent plumbing back-ups.

Thanks for stopping in “At Home with Tom and Sandy.”

You’re in good company and we love sharing important information with you.

See you next month. QCBN Tom Reilly, LEED Accredited Professional, Architect, Contractor, Renovations 928445-8506 www.renovationsaz.com Sandy Griffis, Executive Director, Yavapai County Contractors Association. 928-7780040 Remember to tune in to YCCA’s Hammer Time every Saturday and Sunday morning 7 a.m. on KQNA 1130 AM/99.9 FM/95.5FM or the web kqna.com. Listen to Sandy and Mike talk about the construction industry and meet your local community partners.

Hammer Time is a great way to start your weekend.

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Quad Cities Business News // MARCH 2021

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Research Shows Kindness to Others Helps Our Well-Being

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By Connie Boston and Lance Spears

national report published by the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) on Oct. 9, 2020, indicates that one in four older adults are experiencing depression and isolation during the pandemic. The report further states that older adults continue to be one of the populations most at risk for becoming seriously ill and dying from COVID-19. Adults 65 and older account for 16% of the U.S. population, but 80% of COVID-19 deaths. Arizona is reported to have a 74% share of the COVID-19 deaths in that age group.

The population served in the Senior Peer Program (SPP) at West Yavapai Guidance Clinic (WYGC) includes those who are age 60 and older who are isolated and lonely.

This isolation makes them more vulnerable for increased health problems, depression, anxiety and, unfortunately, suicide. Research informs us that the best suicide prevention strategy for older adults is increasing meaningful human connections. We are a prevention program, driven by

a group of extraordinary volunteers.

They have had background checks, clearance through fingerprint cards and, finally, training and support by our two staff members.

There is no charge for our services, so we rely on donations and grant funding to be able to continue to reach out to our older community in the Quad Cities area. Volunteers usually visit our participants in their homes, but recently, because of the pandemic, most are reached by phone. A significant percentage of our folks have no means of electronic communication. According to a recent survey conducted by the SPP, participants indicate they look forward to calls and visits from a volunteer and report increased well-being.

For some participants, their volunteer is the only touchstone for human contact in their lives. The volunteers provide companionship and explore ways the participant can increase their social connections and receive additional services they may need. We typically provide a number of support groups and classes to older adults who are able to attend. Currently, only two are offered through

Zoom meetings. The SPP gram will return to actual in-person visits and groups once the pandemic subsides.

“Helping others is a universal virtue and a very affordable and economic way to benefit others and our own wellbeing,” said researcher Bryan Hui. “As the saying goes, helping others is helping yourself.”

Hui conducted research on well-being and the contributing factors. Analyzing more than 126 research articles with almost 200,000 participants from around the world, he concluded that people who were kind tended to have a greater sense of well-being. “It’s possible that informal helping may fill our more basic psychological needs for autonomy and close relationships, which is why it could lead to greater happiness.”

For more on the research, go to psycnet.apa.org/record/2020-65092-001.

If you are a senior, 60 or older, and able to commit to making weekly contact by phone, and in the future with in-home visits with a desire for more connection to people, we need you. If you are 60+ years old and would like to join the program as a participant or a volunteer, please call

But, larger than Pantalione’s personal honors are those of the teams he and assistant coach Hugh Bell coached through the three decades they worked at YC. Those include seven national NJCAA championships, 78 total championships (conference, regional district and national), 21 national tournament appearances, 19 Final Four national appearances, 28 Arizona Conference titles, and 29 consecutive years of being ranked in the weekly Top 10 National Soccer Polls.

Student-athletes under Pantalione’s leadership number 64 All-Americans, 146 All-Region players, six national Players of the Year and 22 NJCCA Hall of Fame players.

More than 350 of his players moved on to soccer scholarships at major colleges and universities, and dozens played with national teams, Major League Soccer teams and World Cup teams.

Through four decades of coaching, 32 years at Yavapai College, Pantalione shaped hundreds of student athletes for soccer scholarships at colleges and universities. Dozens went on to play for Major League Soccer and World Cup teams. Courtesy photos

us at 928-445-5211, ext. 2601, or email directly to l.spears@wygc.org.

Volunteering will provide benefits to you, too. Our volunteers frequently tell us that they experience an increased sense of purpose and well-being through their work. When one feels that they are not seen and recognized as a person of value, they inevitably lose self-esteem. That is not what we want for ourselves in later life. Our participants report contentment and even joy from their

volunteer visits.

If you would like to donate your AZ tax credit dollars or make a general donation to the Senior Peer Program, please visit the WYGC website at wygc.org and follow the “donate” button to make your donation. QCBN Connie Boston is the senior peer program manager. Lance Spears is the senior peer volunteer coordinator. For more information, visit wygc.org.

PANTALIONE continued from page 12

sport. All the credit should go to the players for the program’s success.”

However, the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania native’s individual honors are too numerous to be put aside. Among them: N 1980—Named national coach of the year by Special Olympics, Washington, D.C. N 1995—Recipient of National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) National Merit Honor because of high standards for professional and ethical behavior.

N 2006—First-ever national coach to be named to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Hall of Fame.

N 2012—Awarded the NJCAA National Service Award for significant contributions to junior college athletics.

N 2015—Received NSCAA Letter of Commendation for unusual achievements that exceeded performance requirements, expectations and contributions to junior college athletics and soccer in the United States.

N 2016—Awarded the prestigious Bill Jeffrey Award in recognition of long-term service and contributions to collegiate soccer.

N 2016—Only active coach in men’s sports to be selected for the Arizona Community College Athletic Conference Hall of Fame. Pantalione also is a member of the National Italian American Sports Hall of Fame.

EXPRESSING GRATITUDE TO THE COACH

Following the announcement of Pantalione’ s retirement, tributes poured in from all over the nation. Former student athletes, fellow coaches, parents and fans let him know of their affection.

Pantalione says he has been contacted by hundreds of former student athletes, many of whom have gone into professional or semi-professional soccer careers, and others into coaching

and teaching.

“Coach Pantalione had a legendary career guiding the Roughriders to unparalleled success both on and off the field,” YC President Lisa Rhine said of Pantalione’s years of contributions.

“We are proud and honored to celebrate all the achievements he accomplished in the coaching community.

We wish him nothing but the best in retirement.”

YC Athletic Director Brad Clifford echoed Rhine. “Words cannot express what Mike has meant to Roughrider athletics. Mike is a true professional in every sense of the word. Mike is a Hall of Fame coach who is well-respected across the world for his soccer knowledge that has made Yavapai College synonymous with soccer.”

The college is sponsoring a public event at 2 p.m., Saturday, March 27, when the recently completed practice soccer field is scheduled to be dedi-

cated as the Michael Pantalione Field.

Immediately following the dedication ceremony, the celebration will continue in the YC Community Room, where the new head soccer coach and the new women’s soccer coach will be introduced. Guests need to RSVP in advance via the YC Events pages if they plan to attend.

Pantalione is reported to have recruited soccer players to Yavapai College by telling them that “Yavapai” is a Native American word that means “winning soccer.”

PLANS FOR RETIREMENT INCLUDE:

I am remaining in Prescott. This has been our family’s favorite place. It is home.

ADVICE I SHARE WITH FANS:

Let us be grateful to people who make us happy. They are the ones who make

our souls blossom.

SPECIAL PEOPLE IN MY LIFE INCLUDE:

Dedicated student athletes. They’re the ones who scored more than 3,000 goals.

I didn’t.

I CREDIT MY SUCCESS TO:

Yavapai College. Special acknowledgement is due for allowing me to guide, direct and support every one of my student-athletes during my tenure.

THE DATES MOST SPECIAL TO ME ARE:

Nov. 18, 1990, when we won our first national championship and Nov. 18, 2007 – 17 years later, when we won our sixth national championship. QCBN

MARCH 2021 // Quad Cities Business News

@quadcitiesbusinessnews

Setting Goals for Success

By Jamaal McCoy

I

t has often been said that unless we have goals in our personal or business lives, how do we know when we have had success? Many of us work hard, but our lives still lack fulfillment.

What can we do to invoke change in our lives? Before you can change your life, you must change your thinking.

It starts with visualizing what we want from life and setting goals that resemble that vision. Your vision is a detailed description of where you currently are and where you ultimately want to be.

Your vision will be a reflection of what your destination looks and feels like.

For a goal to be effective, there must be a “why” to achieving it. Ask yourself “why” your goal is important and what achieving it or not achieving it means to you. When you can visualize a “why,” you can set your goals that will be your “what.” You must first have a meaningful “why” relative to your “what,” then you can work on the “how.”

The power in goal setting is that it forces you to think about what is important to you and visualize what your reality would be if you accomplish these goals. Goal setting is motivating in nature and is an integral step in achieving success. By identifying what you want to achieve in life and what your ideal future looks like, you know where to channel your energy and efforts and what distractions you need

to eliminate. Goals provide a sense of direction, which allows you to focus on a target so that you can concentrate your aim. Goal setting is fuel for ambition, giving us the inspiration to aim for things that may have previously seemed unattainable.

By setting SMART (Specific Measurable Attainable Relevant Timely) goals, you can track your progress and celebrate your achievements along the journey. These celebrations will confirm your efforts and highlight your progress toward realizing the ultimate end results. Having small victories along the way will increase your confidence and reinforce your ability in achieving the goals that you have set. When you consciously set goals for yourself, you naturally have a greater sense of being.

Utilize your “why” to create a big picture of what you desire to accomplish with your life or what you are determined to accomplish by a specific time period. This big picture will provide you with your ultimate large-scale goals. Once identified, divide the large goals into smaller “benchmark” targets that you can drill down and focus on.

Create a detailed and time specific action plan to start progressing toward achieving each “benchmark” on your journey to achieving your goals.

Each goal should be set in the affirmative and expressed in a positive, motivational tone. Your goals should be definitive, detailed and specific so that

once you have achieved them, you are able to rejoice in your accomplishment.

Give each “benchmark” and each goal a priority level, which will allow you to concentrate your attention and reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed by attempting to achieve too many goals at one time. Your goals need to be written and reviewed often. Once a goal is written, it increases its feeling of validity, which makes it more impactful.

Setting and achieving goals will set you up for a cycle of success and personal satisfaction. Consistently having goals can give you a sense of purpose and the drive needed to persevere each and every day.

Your goals should inherently be your own and not ones set for you by others.

For a goal to be effective, it must be meaningful to you and not just something others want you to achieve. No one can want it more than you want it yourself, then and only then will you focus your efforts on achievement and realizing the vision of success.

In closing, set goals to take control of your life and be the success that you were meant to be. Use your goals to empower yourself, expect more from your life and create the life of your dreams, designed by you! QCBN Jamaal McCoy is the general manager of Findlay Auto Group Prescott. He can be reached at 928-443-8300 or jmccoy@ findlayauto.com.

RVs: The New Workspace

I

By Mike Johns

f 2020 taught us anything, it was that turmoil demands action. In the case of a global pandemic, actions have taken the form of wearing masks, wearing double masks and cleaning your hands so much that your fingerprints begin to fade!

We’ve also begun limiting exposure to clusters of human beings: Limited family gatherings, reduced numbers of customers allowed to enter the business space. In many cases, workers have been laid off or sent home to work. For some, it has meant unemployment. But for others, working from home has become the new “full-time” reality.

But, whoever said you need to stay at home?

For many, RVs are becoming the “go-to” for unemployed and @ Home workers. “Home is where the heart is.” And, for many, the mountains, lakes, deserts and beaches seem like a pretty good place to make home! Reducing the health threat while making a home with a beautiful view has sent Americans by the millions into RV lifestyles.

RVS ARE THE NEW OFFICE.

Whether you work for someone or work for yourself, working remotely – I mean, really remotely – has garnered a new wave of enthusiasts, born of Mother Necessity. Sometimes referred to as “digital nomads,” these folks head to remote areas and stay connected to the internet. Today’s RVs come well equipped for just The thrill of exploring the country from the such ventures, complete with road has returned. Courtesy photo WiFi boosters, USB charging ports, even built-in phone and tablet com and TripleARV.com for more information. Or, stop by Little Dealcharging pads. The days of poor er Little Prices RV – let the experts internet connections are slipping show you how to blaze your own into the rearview mirror, as new path into the brave, beautiful new 5G technologies are enabling these world. QCBN mobile offices more flexibility.

Is RV work-life right for you?

Life on the road is a personal Mike Johns is known around Prescott choice, one that many people are as the “Mayor of Motorsports,” bringing choosing to take. To decide if a life motorized entertainment to the Quad filled with new experiences, Cities. Mike can be found weekly refreshing views and a new at Little Dealer Little Prices RV workspace around every in Prescott Valley. He can corner is your choice for be reached at mjohns@litCOVID relief, check out tledealer.com or 928-350supportive resources like 2400. #littledealerrv Outdoorsy.com, RVLife.

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Weekend Warriors Fight Back

I

By Daryl Williams

f that Saturday morning bike ride or run left you limping into work on Monday sore and exhausted, you’re probably not alone. Welcome to the ranks of the “Weekend Warriors.”

“Weekend Warriors” is the name given to people who are physically inactive most of the week, but then participate in rigorous physical activity during the weekend.

Many times these folks overestimate their abilities and push themselves beyond what they reasonably should do. Many may have had active lifestyles previously, but because of work and family commitments, their exercise time has diminished – especially during the week. So, they think they can make up for it on the weekend. But, the saying’s true – if you don’t use it, you lose it.

And by not maintaining some sort of regular physical activity during the week, they put themselves at risk of injuries when they try to do too much on weekends.

A study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that 80% of adult Americans don’t get the recommended amount of aerobic and muscle-toning exercises every week. With that in mind, it’s no surprise that injuries happen to Weekend Warriors.

Some of the more common injuries include sprained ankles, rotator cuff injuries, elbow, lower back or knee pain. By not participating in regular physical endeavors during the week, even casual activities such as painting, cleaning or gardening can lead to sore muscles and injuries.

But, the good news is it doesn’t have to be that way. You can avoid Weekend Warrior syndrome by incorporating more physical activity into your lifestyle on a daily basis.

Here are some tips for even the most time-crunched of individuals: N Realize that exercise doesn’t have to be “all or nothing.” Look for ways to sneak extra movement into your day. Set your watch alarm to go off a few times a day to remind you to stretch and go for a walk around the office. Walk to lunch rather than drive. While you’re waiting for your child at soccer practice, take a stroll around the field. When watching television, stand up and march in place during commercials. Or, even better, shut the TV off and complete a household chore or go for a walk around the block. And how about when your children are playing? Join them.

N Increase activity gradually. The American Heart Association recommends 30 minutes of exercise a day, five days a week. Break this into smaller goals for yourself so you can attain it. Look critically at your daily schedule and see where you have pockets of time that you can use for physical activity. If three 10-minute sessions are easier for you to accomplish, then do it. You will still reap the benefits.

N Don’t worry about the “best” time of day to exercise. Whatever time is convenient for you is the best time.

N Start at a lower intensity. While you are incorporating additional activity into your lifestyle, be sure to begin at lower intensities and increase as you are able. For example, choose a walking or jogging pace where you can still talk comfortably while getting your heart rate up. Or, during strength training, begin lifting smaller weights and work your way to heavier ones.

N Choose sports and activities that you find fun and enjoyable. Soon, you’ll be looking forward to these well-deserved “me” times.

N With any sport or exercise, always learn and use proper techniques.

Follow safety guidelines as well.

N Put your workouts into your calendar as appointments. Be sure to keep them.

N Keep yourself motivated by setting realistic short and long-term goals. And, reward yourself when you hit them. Download a new song, treat yourself to a movie you want to see, or buy that new book you want to read.

N Wear comfortable shoes every day that you can move about easily in no matter where you are or what you’re doing…and then move! QCBN Daryl Williams is the director of marketing and business development at Mountain Valley Regional Rehabilitation Hospital.

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Quad Cities Business News // MARCH 2021

quadcitiesbusinessnews.com

Seven Signs That You Need a New Computer

G

By Theo Soumilas

ood maintenance and monitoring should have the effect of an anti-aging cream on your work device. Look after it well, and it will do the same for you. However, sometimes, it just makes good business sense to invest in new PCs or laptops rather than trying to get another year out of them. Knowing when that time is can be the tricky part. Older PCs and laptops cost more to maintain.

The cost of ownership increases as they age – a little like cars. And, of

course, performance decreases over time. The optimal refresh cycle for your devices is around three years. Of course, you can get more out of your devices, but that can come down to a few factors, including the hardware itself. Regular maintenance is critical.

Upgrade components and software, and make sure to keep it clear of dust and debris, and you could push five to eight years out of a PC. Laptops are slightly different because they become less capable of running advanced applications as they age. With good care, you can get between three and five years out

// Laptops are slightly different because they become less capable of running advanced applications as they age. With good care, you can get between three and five years out of your laptop. What you need to consider is whether, as your device ages, the cost of issue resolution and maintenance outweighs the cost of acquisition. //

of your laptop. What you need to consider is whether, as your device ages, the cost of issue resolution and maintenance outweighs the cost of acquisition.

Often, if a device is more than three years old, it is cheaper to buy a new one.

A five-year-old PC could cost twice as much to run as a new one. A fouryear-old PC suffers 55% more security incidents than in its first three years. When you look at it like this, the short-term savings disappear, and it can be an expensive mistake to continue to run an older device. So, how do you know when it’s time to bite the bullet and buy new devices?

Here are the top seven red flags to look out for: 1.

2.

Start-up and shut down are slow. We’ve all experienced this at some point. You could make a coffee and sit down and drink most of it before your PC is ready to go. It’s frustrating and wastes a lot of time, during which you could be working.

You’ve got multitasking issues. If your device simply can’t process several jobs at a time, it might be time for a new one. If you

struggle to go back and forth between applications or tabs in a browser, the end is nigh.

3.

You can’t update your operating software. Please, don’t neglect the basics. Updates are vital, especially when it comes to your operating software.

4. You’re unable to update your security. As stated above: please, don’t neglect the basics. Fail to update your security, and you’re leaving your business open to a data breach.

5.

Your computer’s fans are noisy, which can be one of the first signs that your device is nearing its time in the computer graveyard.

6.

Upgrading leads to compatibility issues. Upgrading certain elements of your hardware can be the first step in giving your device an increase in speed and power. However, upgrading some of the parts can lead to compatibility issues in an older machine.

7.

The cost of upgrading or repair outweighs a replacement. You know what it means to throw good money after bad. Sometimes, it’s simply not worth the cost of a repair or replacement part. It may not fully rectify your issues. It may not last as long as you’d like it to, and it may be a case of fixing one thing and breaking another in the process.

As with anything regarding your business devices or infrastructure, always consult your IT support partner before making any big decisions. It can be costly to replace one device, let alone a fleet of them. Your IT support partner will discuss your requirements with you and make the best recommendations based on these and your budget. QCBN For additional information or to schedule an appointment to assist your business, call 928-719-7724 or visit northernazit. com.

Theo Soumilas is the owner of Northern Arizona IT servicing the Quad Cities, Phoenix and Northern Arizona.

MENTAL TOUGHNESS continued from page 15

Sharing the Love in Prescott Valley

Chamber Board Members, Ambassadors and Staff visited member businesses and delivered candy to thank them for being the HEART of the Chamber.

Contact the Chamber at 928-772-8857 or email marnie@pvchamber.org Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce; Catalysts for business and community growth, Conveners of leaders and influencers, Champions for economic success.

For more information or for membership connections visit

pvchamber.org or call 928-772-8857

no doubt kept her mind and body strong and provided knowledge about the natural environment, which I believe were critical factors to her survival.

Maintain hope. Mentally tough people don’t allow negative thoughts to overwhelm them or get distracted by pain from the past or worries about the future.

Assert power over what they can control and believe they can influence the outcome. Every day that Amanda was lost, she knew she had a decision to make – keep going or give up. She continued to side with life, even after a discouraging Day 14, when she realized she was invisible to search helicopters flying over her. “As the sun starts to go down, you’re like, ‘Okay another night alone. How am I gonna stay warm? How am I gonna stay alive?’” she said in a news conference shortly after her rescue. “And it was a very loud clear message that I received that said, ‘If you want to say ‘no’ and you want to sit on that rock, you’re gonna die. So, you have a choice to make. You can sit on that rock and DEBT continued from page 20

some extra to attack the next largest payment.

Your debts will quickly be paid and you will be on your way to financial success.

THE ANGRY ATTACK MODE

This is one of the more interesting strategies.

Pick the debt you hate the most. Zero in on it, attack it and get it paid off. Rank each debt from the most hated to the least hated. Get them out of your life!

Start with your credit card debt, student loans, car loans and any other

you can die, and you can say ‘mercy’ and you can feel pitiful for yourself and play victim, or you can start walking down that waterfall and choose life.’ It was a pivotal time in my life where I had to choose life. Every single step was, ‘I choose life.’”

It has been nearly two years since Amanda was lost in the jungle. She has spent some time away from the island, processing her journey. Today, she is back in Maui, healing others and drawing from a deeper well of wisdom.

“As a ‘side effect’ of my experience in the wilderness, my intuitive abilities popped open.

This has allowed me to offer healing at a much deeper level than before by easily honing in and addressing the root of the problem,” she told me. “I also offer Transformational Healing and Empowerment Coaching sessions, which give my clients the opportunity to step into their own intuitive capabilities and wisdom thereby assisting them in navigating life’s challenges.” QCBN Bonnie Stevens is a public relations consultant. She can be reached at bonnie. stevens@gmail.com.

loan you may have, then tackle the big one: your mortgage! It can be done.

Anything is possible with the right amount of focus and determination.

Good luck and let me know how your journey is going. QCBN Steven Calabrese, CPA is the CFO of West Yavapai Guidance Clinic. He also is the owner operator of a website known as thebiweeklyadvisor.com, where such topics as budgeting, investing, paying off debt and goal setting is discussed.

MARCH 2021 // Quad Cities Business News

@quadcitiesbusinessnews

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SNOW PLAY continued from page 16

Open some evenings, as well as holidays and weekends, the snow park has six tubing runs. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

Flagstaff Snow Park at Fort Tuthill has reduced its capacity through the pandemic and is selling tickets online.

Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney Fresh Focuses Photography

help people create wonderful experiences that are valued in a year such as this one,” said Coconino County Parks and Recreation Director Cynthia Nemeth. “Through consultation with the county’s Parks and Recreation and Health and Human Services departments, the Flagstaff Snow Park put together an operational plan that addresses COVID-19 protocols and

includes online sales, social distancing, decreased capacity, required facemasks and increased cleaning of common-use areas.”

“Our first season was really good.

We did about 19,000 ticket sales using natural snowfall,” said Allen. “But, the following year was really dry, we only opened for five days.”

Allen says at that point, they went

back to the county board and explained that they needed snowmaking capabilities to make the operation viable. After going through the approval process, the owners put in a water line, which also will be used for the campground in the summer.

Food trucks top off the Flagstaff Snow Park experience. “We looked at doing our own food,” said Crane.

Solar Energy Gaining Popularity

S

By Stan Bindell, QCBN

olar power companies say more homeowners are considering solar energy now because, in December, the federal government extended a 26% tax credit for the cost of a residential system through the end of 2022 and because, with the pandemic, people are spending more time in their homes and looking for ways to save money.

Guy Kobey, Northern Arizona solar sales manager for Sunny Energy, says solar energy and Prescott are a natural fit. “The numerous sunny days and cooler temperatures in Prescott mean that a solar system in Prescott will generally outperform a solar system in other warmer parts of the state.”

Through residential rooftop solar systems, solar energy companies say they are helping customers become less reliant on fossil fuels and save on utility bills. “We can also help homeowners protect their family during a grid outage by installing battery backup combined with the solar electric system,” he said.

Solar Life also serves the Quad Cities area. CEO Jeff Grubert says the price of residential solar energy is based on the size of the system or the amount of power a customer wants to obtain.

“While we offer cash purchase options, most homeowners do not see the wisdom in sinking a lot of cash into a purchase option,” said Grubert.

“The best way to go solar is to use the 26% federal tax payment as a down payment and, with no additional cash out of pocket and a 650 credit score, a homeowner can use a low-cost purchase option to lower the monthly cost of electricity.”

Beyond the long-term cost savings for electricity on a home, a homeowner likely will increase the value of the home, but more importantly, enjoy living in the house more, he added. “They get independence, freedom and control over their utility costs.”

Kobey says clean energy helps to stabilize the grid, resulting in fewer outages, while benefiting the environment. “Residential solar generally has no moving parts and the energy created is pollution-free. It is estimated that the U.S. now has more than 90 gigawatts of cumulative installed electric capacity, enough to power more than 16.4 million average American homes, and offset more than 100 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions.”

Beyond environmental benefits, Kobey emphasizes four ways that solar energy is helping homeowners:

N Savings: Most solar systems are financed and the new finance payments are lower than the previous utility bills, he says.

N Independence: Homeowners have freedom from rate hikes. “Now, you have a choice to produce your own electricity right on your own roof and the cost of the energy does not increase,” said Kobey.

N Increased home values: In the past, some solar systems were leased and those did not add value to homes.

However, a recent Zillow study shows that homes with owned solar systems will typically sell for 4.1% more than a similar home without solar. “The simple reason is that homes with solar have much lower utility bills and cost less each month to own and operate than homes without solar.”

N Security: In the event of a grid outage, homeowners with solar and batteries can still run most of their devices. “Often, homeowners will choose to back up circuits such as refrigerators, lights, communications, security and garage doors.”

QCBN

“But, honestly, we thought, ‘How can we involve people in our community?’ and we came up with the idea of food trucks. This was awesome because food trucks don’t typically do well in the winter.” Currently, food vendors include 3’s in the Trees, Square Root Burger, Momma Kneads Dough, Lou Dawgs and Single Speed Coffee Roasters.

“Business has been great,” said Single Speed Coffee Owner Brad Richmann. “It’s been a huge blessing to work in the wintertime in the restaurant. Super appreciative of the ability to work there and those guys

SOLAR continued from page 3

on the site from construction and operation, and also raised concerns about possible chemical pollution to the Agua Fria River system including Ash Creek, a major Agua Fria tributary. Hoadley told QCBN that Candola Renewables will fence the solar panels for security reasons and she wonders how this will impact the deer, coyotes and javelina.

“I want to see them doing their due diligence to see the impact,” she said. “I understand that green energy is important for our country to fight climate change, and the income for education would be wonderful.”

Hoadley said she has not taken a position on the Candela Renewable proposal because she wants to be more informed before doing that.

She has been meeting with Candela Renewable representatives since May and took a field trip to the site with them.

“It’s fair to say Candela wants to be a good neighbor and mitigate what they can,” she said. “They have good answers for a lot of questions.

They are fine with open questions.”

Candola Renewables has several solar projects throughout the West.

QCBN

providing work for us and excited that people are still coming out without snow. They have invested money to enhance the park and make light in a dark situation.”

According to a 2019 study conducted by the Economic Policy Institute at NAU’s W.A. Franke College of Business, the overall contribution of Flagstaff Snow Park’s operations is more than $5 million to the local economy. QCBN For tickets and more information, visit flagstaffsnowpark.com.

COVID continued from page 14

that enough healthcare workers have been available to treat patients. “One thing that we’re most proud of as an organization is we maintained our nursing ratios throughout the duration of the pandemic, and that has not changed. We have travelers [traveling healthcare workers] with us, as well as some temporary staff.”

Healthcare officials continue to stress masking and distancing.

“Even after you get vaccinated, it’s important to continue using all the tools available to help stop this pandemic as we learn more about how COVID-19 vaccines work in real-world conditions,” said Yavapai County Community Health Services Public Health Coordinator Terri Farneti.

For COVID-19 vaccine information and appointment availability, visit yavapai.us/chs/Home/ COVID-19/Vaccine. QCBN

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Quad Cities Business News // MARCH 2021

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BOUTIQUE AIR continued from page 1

The inaugural flight of Boutique Air arrived at Prescott Regional Airport at midday on Feb. 15, where it was welcomed with a traditional “water cannon” greeting. The airline will offer twice-daily roundtrip flights between Prescott and Phoenix, Sundays through Fridays. Photo by Ray Newton

PRC CONTINUES TO EXPAND

Having a second commercial carrier select Prescott is just another example of the recent success of PRC. PRC was named “2020 Airport of the Year” by the Arizona Department of Transportation Aeronautics Group. Just a year earlier, it received the “2019 Outstanding Airport

Award” from the Federal Aviation Administration Western Pacific Region.

PRC Airport Director Robin Sobotta told QCBN that, despite cutbacks and flight cancellations across the nation, “PRC has moved from 46th busiest airport in 2019 to 26th busiest airport in the nation in

2020. That’s largely because of airport operations created by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s aviation training program, but it also reflects our growth as a regional airport.”

Even with diminished commercial flights across the nation in 2020, 27,000 commercial passengers used PRC. They were enplaning and

deplaning on SkyWest Airlines (operating as United Express), which operates daily flights to and from Los Angeles International and to Denver International. Both airports are major hubs for connecting flights.

Sobotta noted expansion will be highlighted further later this month when the new $15 million passenger terminal officially opens. A formal dedication won’t happen until later in the summer, she said, but passengers will soon be using the modern and technologically sophisticated facilities. “An indoor baggage handling system will appeal. So will installation of the full-body scanner equipment, which will speed up passengers going through security.”

The new terminal replaces one constructed in the 1940s, which has long needed major renovations.

Additionally, PRC is anticipating expansion of the main runway, Sobotta said. “It is needed to accommodate aircraft that require more distance to take off, especially during summer months when air density is less,” she explained. Extension will increase the current runway from 7,619 feet to 11,000 feet. It is projected to cost more than $63 million, with most of those funds coming from state and federal grants.

Sobotta provided information about the annual economic benefit

created because of PRC. In 2019, it was estimated that PRC generated $160.3 million in economic impact.

That was the result of 734 jobs; $53.9 million in payroll; 53,000 commercial passengers; and $13.8 million in economic impact from visitors who came via airlines to Prescott.

Sobotta, who earned a Ph.D. in public administration from Arizona State University, was a professor and founding chair of the School of Business at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott before she accepted her position with the city as airport director in 2018.

Sobotta said she and airport staff are enthusiastic about future operations at PRC. “We’re already among the top six busiest airports in Arizona and we see nothing but continued growth. We have people driving from Anthem and north Phoenix because it is easier to get through our airport than it is to go to Sky Harbor. With the new terminal, extended runway, more carriers and the potential for more destinations in the future, it is up – the only way to go,” she said with a smile. QCBN

Mature, stable couple looking to fill a caretaker position.

Preferably in Prescott, Williamson Valley or the Chino area.

Phone 928.864.7440 Fax 928.226.0303 The Courtyard Building | 115 E. Goodwin Street - Suite D, Prescott, AZ 86303 troy@quadcitiesbusinessnews.com Web quadcitiesbusinessnews.com Publisher: Troy Bix

Male is a retired Construction Company Owner able to do any home repairs, chores or duties. Female is a great people-person, homemaker, cook, etc.

Looking for guest house privileges in exchange for home care and maintenance.

If interested, please call 928-485-1130 or email at Qknows3@gmail.com References upon request.

Advertising Manager Ann Herrington | 928-420-4407 Ann@quadcitiesbusinessnews.com Account Executives Deborah “DMK” Mainville-Knight 928-460-4330 dmk@quadcitiesbusinessnews.com Editor Bonnie Stevens | 928-380-4349 bonnie.stevens@gmail.com Copy Editor Carolyn Wendell | cwendell@gmail.com Design & Production Rob Ghosh Design | rob@robghosh.com

Web Content Editor news@quadcitiesbusinessnews.com Contributing Writers Bonnie Stevens Patty McCormac Sue Marceau Ray Newton Tom Vitron Starla Collins Contributing Photographers Kay Lyons, Bonnie Stevens, Ray Newton, Sue Marceau, Stacey Wittig, Veronica Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography The Quad Cities Business News is a publication of Quad Cities Business News, LLC and distributed free each month to residents of Prescott, Prescott Valley, Chino Valley and Dewey-Humboldt. Reproduction of any portion of the publication is strictly prohibited without expressed permission.

The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisements submitted to the newspaper and is not responsible for the claims of its advertisers.

MARCH 2021 // Quad Cities Business News

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WHISPERING PINES continued from page 1

Realtors Tera Wilson (left) of Prescott and Annette Peterson (right) of Prescott Valley discuss with Di Ann Norkus the limited number of houses available for sale in the Quad Cities area, noting that fewer than 300 homes of any type are on the market.

The entry to Whispering Canyon takes visitors to paved streets leading to a master-planned community of luxury homes.

Photos by Ray Newton

Realtor Di Ann Norkus, with Better Homes and Gardens Bloomtree Reality, points out the different phases open in the Whispering Canyon master planned community 15 miles north of Prescott on Williamson Valley Road.

All homes available range in size from about 2,000 to 2,500 square feet, with a three-car garage. Courtesy photo

4. That prompted ownerdeveloper Cole Johnson from Prescott to authorize construction of Phase 5, currently underway.

“People are relocating to Arizona because they appreciate the value, amount of land, and size of home they can get for their dollar here in Prescott,” Johnson said. “It’s ideal for retirees as well as for families looking for a second home or wanting to move into a community where they can enjoy the privacy they desire. It’s a great way to downsize a mortgage and home costs while simultaneously increasing acreage and all the benefits of a new home. Such benefits were recognized by the development team about 20 years ago when we secured the 900 acres and began designing what is now our community here.”

One of Johnson’s commitments is to keep at least 40% of the communi-

ty dedicated to open space. Developed hiking trails abound and homes are surrounded by green belts.

Water for Whispering Canyons and other nearby developments is provided by ICR Water Users Association, a private company. Before the property was approved for development, water availability had to meet established guidelines. Studies and research through the Arizona Department of Water Resources demonstrated that “an assured water supply will be physically, legally and continuously available for the next 100 years,” Johnson said.

INVENTORY AT A 30-YEAR LOW Norkus cited a recent study conducted by realtors and construction officials in Yavapai County and surrounding regions.

“We were shocked to learn that

fewer than 300 homes are available in the greater area. And I’m not talking about stick-built houses.

That includes mobile homes and manufactured homes. In short, we have a very limited home market, and that is driving values up exceptionally fast,” she said.

Most Whispering Canyon residents are full-time residents of early retirement age, she said. “Our residents love the tranquil setting and open space.”

Homes available at Whispering Canyon range in size from 2,027 square feet to 2,527. All have a large three-car garage. Most lots are half an acre; however, larger lots also are available.

Four floor plans options for one-story homes include a variety of exterior styles such as Tuscan, Spanish, Ranch, Territorial and

Craftsman-Bungalow. Exterior combinations of stucco, architectural stone and timber, combined with tile rooftops, provide distinctive personalities for each home.

Buyers can select from multiple choices for home interiors: cabinet styles and colors, granite or quartz countertops and several flooring options. Kitchens feature stainless steel Bosch appliances. “Flexible floor plans give our buyers many options to personalize their homes.

Our homes are definitely a cut above mass production line construction,” Norkus said.

Prices start in the low $600,000s and go up, contingent on the floor plan and type of lot selected. Costs for houses in gated communities are higher, as are those for custom lots available in different phases, she said.

Homeowners Association (HOA) monthly fees are $30 a month in the non-gated area and $50 in the gated community.

For more information, call 928710-0146 or visit whisperingcanyon. com. Office hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., daily. QCBN

// One of Johnson’s commitments is to keep at least 40% of the community dedicated to open space. Developed hiking trails abound and homes are surrounded by green belts. //

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Quad Cities Business News // MARCH 2021

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