August 2022 by Quad Cities Business News

Honoring Prescott Area Women Leaders 3RD ANNUAL PRESCOTT AREA ATHENA AWARDS SEPTEMBER 18, 2022 3-5pm

Get your Tickets at PRESCOTTATHENA.COM Last year’s event was sold out! See page 35 for more information

Longer Stays Promoted to Experience Prescott T

By Ray Newton, QCBN

he City of Prescott tourism and destination marketing team is encouraging visitors to stay longer and experience more. A new strategy was outlined in detail to business and community members during a Tourism Department meeting at Tis Gallery on June 22. City of Prescott Community

Outreach Manager John Heiney explained that developing the strategic plan began more than three years ago. “We used data gathered from local and regional surveys and from oneon-one interviews as the basis for our deliberations. Decisions were based on real data, not ‘what if’ ideas.” The result from those months of study demonstrates a shift from the prior theme, “Visit Prescott,” to the

new theme, “Experience Prescott.” The intent, says Heiney, is to increase the amount of time and money spent by visitors who will celebrate and honor the history, culture, traditions and natural beauty of Prescott and the area. He said the new theme goes beyond just having people visit. It emphasizes schedules and itineraries that prompt visitors to stay longer in

the unique Southwestern city. Tourism numbers throughout Arizona are up significantly from a year ago. Data released by the Arizona Office of Tourism (AOT) show that statewide in 2021, 40.9 million overnight visits were recorded, up from 32.1 million in 2020. Even so, that number is still far behind the record year of 2019, when 46.6 million Continued on page 38

Training Pilots Pilot shortage felt in Northern Arizona By Stan Bindell, QCBN

A Leighnor Aircraft team members, including Lance and Debbie Leighnor, Jim Slaughter, Kian Yazduni, Hunter Vandertoll and Maxwell Denney, are experiencing a huge interest in pilot training and plane rentals. Photo by Kay Lyons

August 2022 | Issue 8 Volume 10

s Prescott and the nation feel the impact of the pilot shortage, about 50 pilots a year are earning their pilot licenses through training by Leighnor Aircraft. Owner Lance Leighnor says the pilot shortage has meant that his family business has been very busy with training and plane rentals for the last two years. As a result, Leighnor Aircraft has increased from two to 15 planes in Prescott and has two planes in Cottonwood. “The demand has gone crazy,” he said about the increased interest. One of the causes for the shortage, he says, is that the federal government mandates that pilots retire when they reach 65.

Leighnor said some of his clients are interested in becoming professional pilots, while others want to fly for fun. Teenagers can start training when they turn 16. It takes about two years to earn a professional pilot’s license. “It’s a big problem,” he said about the pilot shortage, as he pointed to national news that flights are canceled every day, with hundreds of flights canceled on July 4. He noted that one airline recently pulled out of Flagstaff because of a lack of pilots. Skywest canceled flights to 30 essential air service cities. Flights to essential air service cities receive federal funds. Airlines gave up “free money,” he says, because of the lack of flight crews. “That’s how bad it is,” said Leighnor. “This is a 10-year problem. This is not going to

get fixed next year. The only reason we have survived the pilot pipeline problem was because of Embry-Riddle.” He says before the pandemic, the airlines knew pilots would soon be aging out of the profession, but the pandemic made the situation worse with decreased air travel and the resulting furlough of pilots. “These pilots are not coming back,” he said. “The travel restrictions have eased and we’re almost back to pre-pandemic levels, but we don’t have the pilots.” He believes the mandatory retirement age needs to be revisited. “Age 65 is a bit low. We need to look at people’s medical conditions. There are some 40and 50-year-olds you wouldn’t want as your pilots. After 65, there should be enhanced medical requirements, but let them go as long as they can.” Continued on page 36

Quad Cities Business News // AUGUST 2022

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We’re taking the family name. Prescott Medical Imaging and Prescott Valley Medical Imaging are part of the Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC) family of healthcare providers. That’s why we have a new name. We’re now Dignity Health Imaging Center, Prescott and Dignity Health Imaging Center, Prescott Valley. Nothing else has changed. We still have locally based radiologists, access to an expansive national provider network, a vast menu of imaging services and two convenient locations. Learn more at DignityHealth.org/YRMC or call Dignity Health Imaging Center, Prescott or Dignity Health Imaging Center, Prescott Valley at (928) 771-7577.

DH-QCBN-fp.indd 1

7/14/22 8:20 AM

AUGUST 2022 // Quad Cities Business News

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Robert Moses believes in making technology simple for his clients. Photo by Stan Bindell

Chino Valley Computer Shop Addressing Local Tech Needs Idea Karma owner believes relationships with computers are personal

By Stan Bindell, QCBN

dea Karma, LLC, is a one-stop shop for computer and technology needs for businesses and homes. Owner Robert Moses said he opened the shop in Chino Valley because nobody else was providing these services for the Chino Valley and Paulden area. Idea Karma opened May 1 with a number of Chino Valley businesses calling the shop for assistance with computer issues. Chino Valley Councilman Tom Armstrong, during a June meeting, said Idea Karma is a good addition to the community. Moses said Idea Karma provides IT support, computer repair, web design, computer security and sells computers. Moses emphasizes that he provides the most updated technology for his customers. He said too many computer shops don’t stay updated to meet customers’ needs. His motto is: “We make it simple.” “I emphasize how simple I can make technology for people’s needs,” he said. Moses said offering the services here means people don’t have to drive to Prescott or Prescott Valley. “I don’t market there because I have enough business here,” he said. “I saw the need for affordable quality services in the community so entrepreneurs can grow.” Moses said all businesses need to be online in order to be successful in today’s market. Moses said a lot of the area computer shops are booked three to four weeks in advance and take a while to get computers repaired; howev-

er, unless a part is needed, he can get the computers back to customers quickly. He has more than 20 years of computer experience and continually updates his computer education. “This is so I can make better decisions for business owners and guide them through everything,” he said. Moses lived in Paulden before moving to work in Phoenix to raise the capital needed to open the business in Chino Valley. “I love the area. This is my kind of people and environment,” he said. “It’s great to be back. Phoenix [is] overcrowded.” Moses knew as a youngster that he wanted to work on computers. When he was 14, he would fix people’s computers and he would give his mom money to pick up the parts he needed when she went to town. His first job was working on a farm in Maricopa County, where he saw a huge need for the farm to have computers. The experience of his younger days paid off as he has worked on computers for the U.S. Department of Defense, and medical offices. Moses said the community has been amazing with its response to Idea Karma opening. “Everybody who comes in seems to be happy,” he said. “I’ve gotten great reviews.” Moses said too many computer shops respond to customers in a robotic way. “Computers impact people’s lives so the experience for people is personal. There’s not a lot of empathy in computer shops. I’m not in this for a race for money.” As for his retail computers, Moses said he can match the prices of other stores. He doesn’t carry a lot in stock, but he can order it. Idea Karma is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. However, Moses makes house calls, so he recommends calling ahead, 928-3087143. QCBN

Quad Cities Business News // AUGUST 2022

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Ranchers say raising cattle during Arizona’s long-term drought has been difficult and expensive, as they’ve worked to haul water to parched areas. Courtesy photo

Insuring Against No Rain

By Diane Hope, QCBN

ith the long-term drought hitting Arizona ranchers and growers hard, you might be surprised to learn that it is possible to take out insurance against getting no rain. Arnie Schlittenhart has been involved in Arizona agriculture all of his life. In 2002, he was hired by AMS Insurance and managed a cotton gin at Stanfield, in Pinal County. When the cotton gin was sold in 2006, he initially went to work for the Farm Service Agency. But when his former employer, AMS, approached him to come back to them to administer a whole new type of program, he took the plunge. Agribusiness risk management has been around for quite a while. But the program Schlittenhart now administers isn’t available for all agriculture – there is a multitude of other insurance products for row crops. Instead, the Pasture, Rangeland and Forest Insurance (PRF) program is specifically meant for rangeland and those growing alfalfa for hay. “Even if it’s a Forest Service allotment, it’s considered grazing land for the purposes of this program,” he said. The program operates on a calendar. The year is divided into 11 intervals, each interval being a two-month period. Producers select the intervals in which they project they will need the rain. Administered and subsidized by the Risk Management Agency (RMA), the insurance division of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the nationwide program divides up the land surface into squares. Premiums depend on the level of coverage. If a farmer takes out coverage for 70% to 75% of the year, the RMA covers 59% of the premium. For 80% to 85% coverage, 55% of the premium is covered by the RMA. At 90% coverage, 51% of the premium is subsidized. Ranchers are encouraged to use historical rainfall data to select the intervals likely to be most beneficial for their coverage. Schlittenhart is keen to point out that this is not insurance against drought, but rather a lack of rain. This is determined by the data.

“The program has been running for a couple of decades and when it started, it was based on using a ‘green-ness’ indicator of the forage on the rangeland,” said Schlittenhart. “But that didn’t work very well, so around 2005, the assessment was switched to a rainfall index, using rainfall data from the nationwide network of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration rain gauges.” When the rainfall in a given interval falls below the coverage level on a grid square, an indemnity is generated, and that is applied to the premium due. Once the rancher has paid the bill for the premium, the additional indemnity is paid to them. “I have several clients in Yavapai County. They are ranchers raising beef cattle, most of them with an annual cow-calf operation, where they sell off the calf and keep the cow. The clients would prefer decent rains to a payout, but when it doesn’t rain, they’re excited to get that check because it enables them to buy hay and haul water.” This year in Arizona, because of the very dry spring, 100% of Schlittenhart’s ranchers received a rainfall insurance check. Ben Shiew and his mother, Nancy, ranch on 140 sections of federal land from Perkinsville north to the White Horse Lake, across Coconino and Yavapai counties. They received money from the insurance program this spring. “This is the first year we’ve done it. I was standoffish about it in the beginning,” said Ben. “But Arnie explained it real well – and it’s all pluses. When Arnie crunched all the numbers and explained the coverage, that’s when I changed my mind. It’s a great deal. We’ve had a dry year so far, so the money is helping us to haul water.” “The take up across the Southwest and especially in Arizona is very good, [which is] not surprising given the ongoing drought situation here,” said Schlittenhart. “I’m hopeful that the USDA will maintain this program, because it’s proving very beneficial.” QCBN

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AUGUST 2022 // Quad Cities Business News

Quad Cities Business News // AUGUST 2022

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Families, Hikers, Tourists, Locals Seek Out Hyatt Place Travelers are back for views, monuments and adventures of the Grand Circle By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

ith all the vibrancy of a high country monsoon thunderstorm, the lobby of Hyatt Place is electric with excitement. Travelers in hiking gear, tourists meeting with outfitter guides, foodies savoring mango habanero tofu street tacos and locals enjoying prickly pear margaritas rimmed with black lava salt all seem to be in their happy place. This high desert haven is perched above the expansive Page/Grand Canyon/Lake Powell zone, known as

the Grand Circle, where stone can be swirled into timeless art pieces, rain showers drift across the pastel plateau and sparkling blue water beckons the outdoor recreationist. Nearly five million visitors arrived at this destination in pre-pandemic 2019 and Hyatt Place Page Lake Powell General Manager Nadia Santacruz says 2022 is on track for another amazing year in tourism. “Page has been discovered by visitors all over the world,” she said. “The beautiful slot canyon, Antelope Canyon, is the No. 1 attraction. It’s an Continued on page 39

Above: Antelope Canyon is a favorite natural attraction. Courtesy photo Left: After a day of hiking, the Hyatt Place patio offers comfortable furniture and expansive views. Photo by Bonnie Stevens

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AUGUST 2022 // Quad Cities Business News

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Business Woman QCBN

of the Month

Business in Bloom Sara Canfield is the ‘Old Soul’ behind Chino Valley’s young floral shop

By Stan Bindell, QCBN

he opening of her own flower shop is a longtime dream for Sara Canfield. Her interest began to grow 19 years ago when she saw the flowers at her sister’s wedding. “I told my sister that I would take care of her flower arrangements as my wedding gift to her and it brought out my passion for working with flowers.” This motivated her to go to the Las Vegas Floral Design School and take other floral design classes. “The floral design school taught me how to properly price arrangements and use color theory as well as the principles and elements of design,” she said. Last month, she experienced a dream realized with the grand opening of her Old Soul Floral in Chino Valley. A number of local residents came out to help her celebrate on July 8, as well as local dignitaries, including Lorette Brashear from the Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce, Sheri Heiney from the Prescott Chamber of Commerce, Wade Searle from U.S. Rep. Paul Gosar’s office and Lisa West from New Life CPR. Realtor Peter Medal served as emcee for the ribbon cutting ceremony.

Searle presented Canfield with a certificate of appreciation for investing in the community. Local business leaders praised Canfield for her perseverance and welcomed her to the community. “I wish [the business] nothing but success,” said Brashear. “The floral shop is rustic and cute because they have different arrangements and styles for any occasion.” The Prescott Regulators and Shady Ladies, who dress in regalia from the 1800s, added some color and character to the ribbon cutting event. Canfield is certified through the American Institute of Floral Design and also is an Arizona Master Florist. The pandemic nudged her in the direction of her talents and education when her job with a travel tour company ended in March 2020. “We had tours in Europe and Asia where the pandemic started.” The Prescott resident used the time off to follow her passion for flowers and jumped at the chance to create a flower shop when she found building space on Highway 89 amidst the rapidly growing area. Old Soul Floral specializes in the free-flowing style of European design. “It uses nature as inspiration.”

Sara Canfield beams with the realization of a dream that began 19 years ago. Photo by Stan Bindell

Local community representatives, along with The Shady Ladies, helped celebrate the opening of Old Soul Floral in Chino Valley. Photo by Stan Bindell

Canfield says she enjoys creating custom floral displays for weddings, events and holidays. “Each arrangement is different,” she said. “When I am designing, my mind blocks out everything else and it is all about

the flowers, colors, and how they fit together.” The flower shop offers gifts as well, including purses, candles, soaps, jewelry, t-shirts and cards. “I invite people to come by to see

what we have!” QCBN Old Soul Floral is located at 1174 St. Rt 89, Unit #1, in Chino Valley. For more information, call 928-636-3789.

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AUGUST 2022 // Quad Cities Business News

10 Quad Cities Business News // AUGUST 2022

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Inventor’s HeetShield May Soon Protect Space Deliveries and Firefighters Steve Miller is testing his high-tech thermal insulation material in NACET labs By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

hatever NASA wants to deliver to a planet or a moon from space – whether it is medicine, robots, experiments or humans – HeetShield founder and CEO Steve Miller is engineering a protective thermal insulation product that can wrap around it. He is testing his science technologies material now in Moonshot at NACET’s laboratory on McMillan Mesa in Flagstaff. His patent-pending material has the attention of the Forest Service as well. This month, as wildfires rage across the West, the entrepreneurial innovator is developing a better fire shelter, one he hopes can withstand high heat 20% longer than those being used on the fire lines today. “We have two materials that are more efficient than what’s currently available,” said Miller. “They are both in the neighborhood of half a millimeter thick. We can make them thicker if we need to, but no one makes thermal

insulation of that thickness that is as efficient as ours are.” Thinner than a matchbook cover, Miller’s HeetShield material can withstand temperatures of at least 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit to survive the descent from space through Earth’s atmosphere. It also blocks radiation. “Let’s say you’ve got your payload in a one-gallon paint can and you need to get it to the surface of a planet,” he said. “NASA has this concept of a Hypersonic Inflatable Aerodynamic Decelerator (HIAD) that might be deployed from the International Space Station or a rocket lab. This HIAD is an inflatable vehicle. The bottom part looks like half a sphere. You put your paint can in the bottom of the sphere, which then surfs through the atmosphere, and the payload is recovered on the ground. The HIAD is protected by our material.” Like many products designed for space, Miller believes his HeetShield technology has valuable applications on the ground. “The current fire shelter uses a layer

of silica cloth with foil on the outside to reflect the heat of the fire away and then on the inside there’s another layer of foil and fiberglass cloth. We’re proposing to add a very thin layer of our material in between the two layers,” he said. “Today’s fire shelters offer protection 92% of the time. We’d like to improve that.” Miller’s interest in thermal insulation material began when he was a teenager growing up in Los Angeles. “I used to enjoy escaping the big city and going to the mountains and I wasn’t convinced that the clothing and sleeping bags sold at the time were as good as they could be. So, I began working on new materials that I thought would work better.” Later, he presented his ideas for clothing insulation at a conference. A participant suggested he talk to his colleagues at NASA who developed insulation for the space shuttle. “Over the years since then, I’ve had access to some incredibly smart people and amazing test facilities.” Miller has been developing his HeetShield material for more than a decade, but during the pandemic, it has taken off. He founded the company in

Steve Miller, a mechanical engineer and founder of HeetShield, is further developing his science technologies material in the Moonshot at NACET lab. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

September 2020, hired five part-time employees, including recent Northern Arizona University graduates, and applied successfully for grants though NASA’s Small Business Innovative Research program. In April, HeetShield was invited to move into the labs at NACET, Flagstaff’s business incubator and accel-

erator. “The facilities are beautiful,” said Miller. “They have very talented mentors. Through the people at NACET, I’ve been connected with people to help with patents, I’ve connected with people at ECoNA, I’ve connected with people at the Arizona Commerce Authority. Last month, they helped Continued on page 39

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// LEADERSHIP TIPS FROM PRESCOTT-AREA ATHENA KEYNOTE PRESENTER COLLEEN BIGGS

Start Before You Are Ready

By Colleen Biggs

ou have all heard the phrase, “To take a leap of faith.” But what does that really mean in the big scheme of life? Does it mean that you take careless risks or lead your life blindly into the unknown because you have faith in the leap? No, it does not! It signifies that you need to start before you are ready. In my world, LEAP stands for Leading with Enhanced Acceleration to reach your Peak Performance. If I never started before I was ready, you wouldn’t be reading this article right now! I’m not a journalist or a polished writer, but I have a passion for empowering women to inspire change in others, build unlimited wealth and leave a legacy behind. That is why I start before I’m ready, so we can all live in a world where kindness spreads. You are your own safety net, period! So why are so many individuals afraid to leap and start before they are ready? The lack of desire for growth may be FEAR (False Evidence Appear-

ing Real). Without the desire to grow, change and become a better version of yourself, you remain in the same fishbowl that you have created as your “reality.” You remain stuck, fearful of the outcome! As entrepreneurs, you cannot focus on what happens to you, you must focus on what is happening for you. Look up every once in a while and reap the benefits of what is happening around you: those you can meet, those that collaborate with you. Opportunities are endless. If you seek, you shall find. But, just like a goldfish, we outgrow our “bowls.” Have you heard about the proximity principle? You are the combination of the five people you hang around the most. You most likely have the same net worth, like some of the same foods, enjoy the same activities, etc. This can keep you stuck if you are around those unwilling to grow. Leaping to the new belief offers the opportunity for you to meet someone new, put yourself in a new crowd, develop new skills that form new habits, and take on new leadership roles in your business, career, family and

community. Remember, your network is your net worth! Imagine you are speaking on stage and you see the front row of the audience. Do you want that front row to be your raving fans, nodding, clapping, cheering? Or, would you like that front row to be naysayers, frowning, falling asleep from boredom, or, worse yet, getting up and walking out of the auditorium? Of course, you want them to be raving fans! So, fill the “front row” in your life with those same people. Don’t be afraid to ask others for what you want, ask yourself for what you want, and, most importantly, ask God. Figure out what it is that you want in your business and go for it. I did when I built my community from zero to 12,000 community members in just three short years. Let’s break down a simple list of how you can take the LEAP and start before you are ready: Life is happening for you. As entrepreneurs, you cannot focus on what happens to us, you must focus on what is happening for us. Opportunities are endless. If you seek, you shall find.

Leadership: Who is your raving fan? Who tells everyone about you? Write the list down and use this list when you need assistance in getting the word out about a new product or event you may have. Be the authority of you: You are the only you that has ever been and the only you that will ever be. Now is the time to stop asking permission of others and show up authentically as you everywhere. Trust me, it will be the best impression you can leave, and will be memorable. Your network is your net worth: Accelerate your growth through additional learning and by surrounding yourself with those individuals who fuel your success, not snuff it out! It’s time to check your inner circle and maybe shift some people around. Challenge yourself and do it scared: Done is better than perfect. If it doesn’t scare you, it’s not a risk. Take a risky leap today to prove you can do anything you put your mind to. I want to meet you and will be speaking at the Prescott Area Athena Awards,

3-5 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 18, at Starting Point in the Prescott Gateway Mall. https://prescottathena.com. Connect with me on social media, LinkedIn or even track me down on my website. QCBN

For additional information on how you can schedule a 30-minute strategy call with Colleen Biggs, visit her website at https:// colleenbiggs.net/ and schedule that call here https://calendly.com/colleenbiggs/30min. Visit her online community https://colleenbiggs.net/community/ to find more ways that you can increase your leadership through visibility https:// colleenbiggs.net/freebies/. Nominations are being accepted now for the 2022 Prescott-Area ATHENA Award. Find nomination form and ticket information for the ATHENA High Tea event, Sunday, Sept. 18, at prescottathena.com. To hear more from Colleen Biggs, find her on Zonie Living, “Leading Ladies Who Inspire, Empower and Model Excellence,” at starworldwidenetworks.com.

Meet Your Local Banking Experts: Tony Hannigan Vice President, Commercial Banking thannigan@alliancebankofarizona.com (928) 214-3422 John Fockler Vice President, Senior Relationship Manager john.fockler@alliancebankofarizona.com (928) 214-3410

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Prescott-Area ATHENA Nominations Being Accepted for September Event

Are you caring for a loved one?

Come and experience the benefits of socialization and extraordinary care. • Sense of purpose and belonging • Decreased isolation and depression • Improved cognitive health

he Quad Cities area is preparing to recognize and celebrate local women leaders who excel in business, support their communities and mentor others. Nominations are being accepted now through Aug. 8, for the third annual Prescott-area ATHENA Award, an international honor sponsored by Quad Cities Business News and Prescott Woman Magazine. Business Coach Colleen Biggs is scheduled to be the keynote speaker, presenting “Ignite Your Personal Power” at the ATHENA High Tea celebration, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 18, at Starting Point in the Gateway Mall. Tickets and sponsorship tables are available now. Biggs has been a business coach for 22 years and has helped launch 340 businesses. “The whole motivation behind being who we were born to be comes from really leaning into your voice, into Colleen Biggs who you are and what makes you stand out,” she said. To nominate an outstanding local female leader for the Prescott-area ATHENA Award and to reserve a seat at the ATHENA High Tea, go to https://prescottathena.com. Hear more from Colleen Biggs on Zonie Living, the “Leading Ladies” edition, at https://starworldwidenetworks.com/episodes/leading-ladies-who-empower-inspire-and-model-excellence-business-coach-colleen-biggs-entrepreneur-april-white-and-actress-mariette-hartley-video. QCBN

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By Ray Newton, QCBN

he general manager of the recently opened Dunkin’ is thrilled with the success the store has had since its grand opening Friday, July 1. “We’re delighted,” said Robert Routh. “We opened just in time to benefit from large crowds during record-setting July 4th activities. It’s a perfect location – across from the hospital, near schools and a lot of stores. It’s just my opinion, but General manager Robert Routh and Training Director Leona I think we’ve got the best Browning supervise the newly opened Dunkin’ at 1020 Willow coffee in town. We cater to Creek Road. Photo by Ray Newton diverse customers: teens to seniors.” Leona Browning, a 14-year employee of Dunkin’, was working in Phoenix, but relocated to Prescott for several weeks to train new employees. Currently, the store has 22 employees, some full-time, others part-time. “I think Prescott is going to be a really successful store in Central and Northern Arizona. It has a great community atmosphere,” she said. Dunkin’ (formerly known as Dunkin’ Donuts) is the largest coffee and donut brand in the nation and is part of a larger corporate firm called Inspire. Inspire, founded in 2018, is the second largest restaurant company in the U.S., and owns several brands, including Arby’s, Baskin-Robbins, Buffalo Wild Wings, Jimmy John’s, Sonic Drive-in and Rusty Tacos. The new Dunkin’ store, located at 1020 Willow Creek Road, is open 4:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday. QCBN

AUGUST 2022 // Quad Cities Business News

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// COMMUNITY PROFILE // BY V. RONNIE TIERNEY, QCBN

Camp Verde Bicycle Gearing Up for Growing Demand Owner James Cornelius is answering the need for outdoor recreation

oving the abundance of water, greenery and long country bike rides, Camp Verde Bicycle Owner James Cornelius has found his happy place. “I’m from Ohio, and my wife, Lani, is from Hawaii, so we really love the climate here in Camp Verde. Plus, it’s unusual to have a verdant area mixed with desert climate.” Cornelius lived in Flagstaff for 25 years, went to Coconino High School for his senior year, worked at SCA Tissue North America as a maintenance lead for most of his career and, until earlier this year, owned Flagstaff Bicycle. “We would visit my mom in Nogales and often traveled from Flagstaff and back. As we passed Camp Verde, we would look over and didn’t think much of it. When we finally got around to doing a little exploring, we fell in love with the town of Camp Verde fast. We found out that we really liked

the culture, too, so it was a very easy transition for us.” The township of Camp Verde currently boasts a population of 12,147. As a full service bike shop, Camp Verde Bicycle is the only bike shop that caters to locals, selling bicycles and gear for all ages. “James is super knowledgeable about his products. He was really kind to us and gave us a good deal. Plus, he was able to get the product in without a huge delay,” said Ruby Road Resale and Vendor Mall Owner Pamela Bridgnell. “We needed a bike rack for our bikes, one of which is an electric bike and a bit bulky. We tried all the major outdoor retailers and no one could actually help us with the size of our problem. He was the guy that helped us find the right rack.” Human-powered transportation is the future emphasis of Camp Verde Bicycle. “We will be selling scooters, skateboards, hiking supplies and things along that line,” said Cornelius. “Our shop will stay primarily bicycles but Camp Verde is really crying out for some basic outdoor sports gear.” Continued on page 32

James Cornelius believes human-powered transportation is the future. He says Camp Verde Bicycle will be expanding its inventory to include scooters, skateboards and hiking supplies. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

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// BUSINESS CENTS // BY BONNIE STEVENS

Greatness is Inconvenient

hen you think about something great you have accomplished, author Ed Mylett, a peak performance expert, will want to remind you that it wasn’t convenient. “Convenience and greatness do not co-exist. They are diametrically opposed forces,” he writes in his book “The Power of One More: The Ultimate Guide to Happiness and Success.” “These inconveniences can be anything from getting up at 5 a.m.

to make a 7 a.m. meeting with your professor when you’re working on your master’s degree or running 75 miles a week to prepare for your first marathon even though your feet are on fire because they are covered with blisters. It could be going through four months of morning sickness before you give birth or putting in 60 hours a week to be the top salesperson for your company.” The thing about these inconveniences is that there is no guaran-

// Leaders also encourage others to strive for inconvenient accomplishments. They know behind every mountain begging to be climbed is the promise of satisfaction and self-esteem. They also recognize talent in others and help to develop it, even if that means pushing us toward the mountain. //

tee they we will actually lead us to achieving what we are after, even if we put in the work. Is this fair? No! But, if we don’t, we will have no chance of reaching our goal at all. So, Mylett suggests we embrace inconveniences and decide to enjoy them. Leaders do this. Leaders also encourage others to strive for inconvenient accomplishments. They know behind every mountain begging to be climbed is the promise of satisfaction and self-esteem. They also recognize talent in others and help to develop it, even if that means pushing us toward the mountain. Many of us go around suspecting we may have some natural gifts, but sometimes it’s not until someone we respect notices them, calls them out and insists we put them to work, that we actually see them in ourselves. I can recall a time early in my career when I felt like I was being loaded up with an unfair share of work. During a leadership retreat, I was called out in front of the team I barely knew to come up with a vision for an organization I hardly understood. In one hour. WHAT? ME? When assigned this surprise task,

I’m sure my body language revealed something other than an embrace. Sensing my recoil, which was about as subtle as a screaming red hot piece of heel flesh about to blister, the leader of the organization pulled me aside to explain that I wasn’t being punished. I was being given an opportunity to use and showcase my gifts, gifts that could be valuable to the organization, sure, but also to me, gifts that might take me higher in my career. When I got over the shock and fear of feeling victimized and being put on the spot, I got into it. I love to write and I love to dream. I was being sent out to the lovely park of Courthouse Plaza in downtown Prescott to do both. I had a blast. And when we regrouped an hour later, I presented “The Vision.” I have to say, it was pretty funny, and also pretty good. But the real magic was that my over-thetop, yet based-in-reality vision worked like fairy dust. It connected a team that was quite disconnected. You could feel the change in the room as

individuals recognized themselves in the vision and smiled, chuckled and relaxed into their seats. Wow. My confidence and sense of belonging grew that day. Climbing and growing are good for us, often profitable and rewarding in many other ways, too, but they are not convenient. When we embrace inconvenience as a way of life, Mylett suggests we get into the habit of doing one more anything and feeling the power of one more, which he says leads to happiness and success, and gives us a chance at greatness. Also, the thing about pushing ourselves and actually accomplishing what we set out to do, feels really good, even if we are sleep deprived, hobbling on our blisters and throwing up. QCBN

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

AUGUST 2022 // Quad Cities Business News

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Granite Creek Corridor Improvements Expected to Begin in Fall

By Ray Newton, QCBN

lans for long-awaited improvements to the Granite Creek Corridor, which runs through the heart of Prescott, have been approved from various planning committees and the Prescott City Council. Some improvements are expected to begin this fall. Prescott Community Outreach Manager John Heiney says a city grant proposal to support the projects has been accepted for fiscal year 2022-23. Also, the city can now support additional recreational expansion projects because of $5.9 million in federal funding received for COVID-19 recovery. After what has been more than three years of deliberating, planning, public hearings and consulting from outside professional experts, forward movement is already underway. However, major construction and renovation likely won’t get started until fall. Future projects include construction of a $1

million pavilion and community meeting area west of Granite Creek across from the splash pad that opened last year near the Hilton Garden Inn. That same improvement will include a grassed area where small mid-week farmer’s markets and other activities can be staged. Plans also include an estimated 100 more parking spaces in cooperation with the Hilton Garden Inn, according to City Recreation Service Director Joe Baynes. Earlier in March, the Prescott City Council approved a separate proposal for the Granite Creek Greenways Trail (GCGT), which will include signage, improved lighting and public accessibility. Though separate from the GCGT, the Granite Creek Area Plan is parallel and complementary to it, said Deputy City Manager Tyler Goodman. More details about the corridor improvement projects are expected to be announced following final approval and adoption of the 2022-23 budget. QCBN

Dignity Health, YRMC Breaks Ground for New Clinic

By Ray Newton, QCBN

n $8 million, 10,000-square-foot family and specialty medical clinic is under construction at the intersection of Highway 69 and Lee Boulevard on the eastern edge of Prescott. After several years of negotiation, property owner Jim Lee joined officials from Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Center in early June to celebrate the groundbreaking for the long-awaited facility. Jim and Linda Lee, long known as generous resident philanthropists for the greater community, said, “The new clinic will feature contemporary, state of-the-art advanced interactive technology equal to any place in the country. Patient records will be accessible to expert medical practitioners across the nation, and it goes both ways.” Initially, staff will include two primary care provider and two advanced clinical practitioners. Other specialists will be available on an as-needed basis. John Amos, retiring president and CEO of Dignity Health, YRMC and his

A sign is mounted on the site for the soon-to-beconstructed Dignity Health, YRMC family-specialty medical clinic at the intersection of Highway 69 and Lee Boulevard. Photo by Ray Newton

successor, Anthony Torres, M.D., who had been chief medical officer, praised the new clinic as a tremendous addition to the health care system for the region. Designed by Archsol and to be built by Venn Construction (both Scottsdale-based firms), the clinic is expected to accept patients in 2023. QCBN

We provide services like, biomimetic crowns and fillings, Invisalign, sleep appliances and implants. We put the best interest of our patients first, we do this by being mimimally invasive in our treatment and techniques, up to date on best practices, and invest in technology and continuing education to provide the best care.

Dr. German received his dental training at Temple University. He is a Board Certified Naturopath with training in integrative biologic dental medicine and naturopathic dentistry. He has an implant mastership received by the American Academy of implant Prosthodonitics.

Dr. Thompson received his biomimetic dental training at USC and obtained extensive orthodontic training as a dentist in the U.S. army. He received his implant mastership by the American Academy of Implant Prosthodontics.

“I have been going to Prescott Dentistry for many years now and I can’t say enough good things about them. When you walk in the office, you see smiling faces that engage with you right away. The first time I went there, I saw Dr. Thompson who is so kind and wonderful. I didn’t think there could be anyone as nice and then I met Dr. German and he was just as wonderful, kind and knowledgeable. He always spends all the time needed for questions and explanations about what he is doing and it is so comforting. He makes you feel like you are his only patient. I got a serious health diagnosis a couple of years ago and since I am very holistic, I wanted a holistic dentist which is why I chose Prescott Dentistry. Dr. German always recommends the natural way to treat things when possible, which I really appreciate as I have been dealing with Periodontal disease which Dr. German shared with me could contribute to my health issue. Because of this, I am having 4 deep cleanings which I was nervous about. No worries…the Dental Hygentist, Carrie is amazing and so gentle. I just love her too! If you want to feel special, go to Prescott Dentistry! The atmosphere is so calm and EVERYONE is so amazing! You will love them!”– Ann Herrington

350 Whipple St, Prescott, AZ 86301 (928) 445-1660 | www.prescottdentistry.com M/T/W 8am-4pm | Th/F 8am-3pm PrescottDentistry@Gmail.com

Quad Cities Business News // AUGUST 2022

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Our Public Schools Do Not Need to be the Poorest of the Poor

By Mike Fogel

he “poorest of the poor” sadly describes the inadequate funding of many, if not all, of Yavapai County’s public school districts. Unfortunately, this is the reality for Prescott, Humboldt and Chino Valley Unified districts, Mingus Union High School district and Clarkdale-Jerome Elementary district. Alarmingly, this does not have to be the case. When I state that Chino Valley Unified School District and other schools in Yavapai County are the “poorest of the poor,” I reference two sources, one a state report from the Arizona’s Auditor General Office (School Districts

| Arizona Auditor General (azauditor. gov), the other a national report from the Education Law Center (ELC) located in New Jersey (“Making the Grade 2021”| Education Law Center (edlawcenter.org). Both report on the most important budgetary measurement of a school district’s ability to provide educational services: per-pupil funding. While extracting per-pupil funding data from the state’s auditor general, I discovered that Chino Valley School district is in the state’s lowest 5% and the other Yavapai districts previously mentioned are in the state’s lowest 12%. The Education Law Center’s national report ranks Arizona 51st in per-pupil

// Arizona has had and continues to have the resources to adequately fund public schools at levels comparable to districts throughout our state and nation. We need to approach national averages to provide adequate educational opportunities for all our children. //

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funding. As a Chino Valley School Board member, I represent the poorest (lowest 5% of Arizona’s districts) of the poor (Arizona’s 51st national ranking in per-pupil funding). And, as a school board member, I am obligated to report this to my Chino Valley constituents and the wider Yavapai community. Digging further into the national and state data, there is no solid economic reason that we are among the poorest of the poor, nor that we must remain so. The ELC reports that Arizona’s “effort” to adequately fund education is last in the country. Arizona devotes 2.29% of its GDP to education, which is the lowest of all states in the union. The national average is 3.27% of GDP. If Arizona was to achieve just the average national level of effort, it would equate into an additional $4,725 per pupil. Arizona has the capacity to fund education better without having to raise taxes. Instead, our state has been disinvesting in traditional public education for the past three-plus decades. This is unnecessary. The 2022 legislature did something very different in this year’s education budget by adding more than $800 million to public schools across the

state, as reported in the Arizona School Boards Association Summary of FY23 Budget, July 5, 2022. This needs to be applauded, as it is a significant increase. But do not think this is reversing a trend. History shows that it will be a long time before public schools witness this kind of gain again soon. Arizona has had and continues to have the resources to adequately fund public schools at levels comparable to districts throughout our state and nation. We need to approach national averages to provide adequate educational opportunities for all our children. The investment in public education is critical to provide the very best opportunities for our families’ children to succeed at the highest levels and continue to grow our economy. Inadequate funding means our administrators have trouble recruiting and retaining the best teachers and classified employees. Our school personnel are asked to live with uncompetitive salaries, hourly wages and benefits. Too many gifted teachers and classified personnel leave for this reason. Highly qualified prospective teachers,

furthermore, either do not bother to apply or refuse our offers of employment because they are not competitive. Inadequately funded schools also mean our classroom sizes have exceeded reasonable limits to the point where too many of our students are underserved, especially in the primary grades. These two disadvantages alone, and there are many more, make it impossible to deliver the quality of learning needed for all our children to reach their highest potential. The “poorest of the poor” means that too many students in Yavapai County have been unnecessarily doing without appropriate learning environments and educational services for far too long. Disinvesting in public education has been a political choice. The families of students attending Chino Valley, Prescott, Prescott Valley and other Yavapai County schools expect and deserve much better. QCBN Mike Fogel is a Chino Valley Unified District Governing Board member.

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AUGUST 2022 // Quad Cities Business News

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Feeling the Rewards of Volunteering

By Cj Meldahl

omebody asked, “Why do people volunteer?” and I flashed back on a memory of a friend of mine who campaigned with everyone she met. “Volunteer,” she’d say. “It’s good for you!” She even went so far as to tie a volunteer project into her birthday celebration, and in those instances, she would bring her friends together, reluctant ones, too, to clean up the trash by the river or a park or boulevard. Kay believes that as humans we each are called to help each other.

In talking about this recently ,another person answered the question like this: “When I moved from Ohio to Phoenix, I was 21 years old. My first best friend was 75 years old. I’ve always been drawn to seasoned citizens, I guess. I worked for a company for 35 years that supported and encouraged volunteerism. We were expected to volunteer and I realize now that it has shaped the way I view helping others. While I was working full-time, I thought, ‘Now, why would anybody volunteer their time without getting paid? Who has time

// Sometimes the need in this world seems overwhelming, and I think, ‘I can’t save the world.’ But then I remember the quote, ‘Helping one person might not save the world but it could change the world for one person.’ That keeps me doing whatever I can do to help others. //

for that?’ We made time because it was expected of us, but now I see how helping others really adds value to your own life. Now that I’m retired, I have the time and energy to put into helping others and People Who Care has afforded me this opportunity. I see the impact we have on folks that are homebound. Can you imagine not being able to drive and do what you want when you want? You can’t even jump in the car and have lunch or drive though a drive-thru for a burger. I have a neighbor that I take weekly to the post office to get her mail. We go to lunch and have really great conversations. I recently took my beloved neighbor to get a mammogram and ultrasound. I was there when the doctor came in and told my neighbor that she has breast cancer at 84 years old. I was the only one there with her in the room. I often wonder how you would feel getting that kind of news with nobody around to be with you at that critical moment. That’s the significance of what we do. Sometimes the need in this world seems overwhelming, and I think, ‘I can’t save the world.’ But then I remember the quote, ‘Helping one person might not save the world but it could change

the world for one person.’ That keeps me doing whatever I can do to help others. I’m just thankful that I get to be there for her and help her through the hard months ahead. I think I actually get more out of driving my neighbors to the store or to their appointments than they do. There is so much wisdom and insight I gain from making friends with my neighbors. They are grateful and so am I. I am totally blessed,” said Pam. QCBN To find out more or to Volunteer for People Who Care, visit www.peoplewhocareaz. com. Cj Meldahl is the executive director of People Who Care. People Who Care continues its 30-year mission of providing essential transportation and non-medical assistance to adults in the Quad Cities who are unable to drive because of age, vision or disability issues. Volunteers can change lives, improve access to health care, reduce isolation, and form meaningful relationships with neighbors in our community. Our assistance enables people to stay independent in their own homes. Thanks to our dedicated volunteers and donors, we’re able to provide these services for free.

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Downtown Corridor Taking Shape p. 3 American Icon Closing its Doors p. 4

Athena Coming to Prescott p. 6 Bringing Renewable Energy to Navajo Nation p. 8

New SANA Hospi Community Medictal Fills al Needs S By Ray Newton,

QCBN

aying everyone in the community will benefit from the opening of a state-of-the art hospital, Prescott Mayor Greg Mengarelli welcomed executives, administrators, healthcare professionals, elected officials, staff personnel and residents at the grand opening of SANA Behavioral Hospital during afternoon ceremonies on Dec. 9.

2020 ISSUE:

Considering Corals on Next Beach Vacation Your p.11 Community Profile: Saddling Up with Joe Marshall p. 13

The parking lot was crowded as visitors toured the SANA in Prescott 15,378-squarewas based on exfoot, one-story, tensive research recently constructed about medical needs viding acute integrated in-patient medical facility, of the broader community. psychiatric and medical estimated to cost care to between $9 million adults age 65 and Pierce told the crowd and $10 million. above on Medicare, occupancy will begin that official SANA Hospital and 55 and above Administrator with additional when the AriPamela K. Pierce zona Department contractors as they introduced Kirk of Health Services add SANA to the Olsen, principal Medical Licensing provider networks. and owner of ERH unit Healthcare, a Salt hospital and licenses surveys the In an exclusive interview Lake it with Quad hospital development City-based Hospital in Geriatric as a “Specialty Cities Business News, Pierce, a highly company that Psychiatry.” manages SANA That was expected credentialed behavioral hospitals. to occur at the end health leader of December, she Olsen said the decision with more than 30 said. years of experience, to build described the 24-bed The hospital will focus on prohospital with 14 Continued on

Winfield at the Ranch Preparing for Reside nts page 39

By Ray Newton, QCBN was once the site of one luxurious apartments the wealthiest quartz of arketing itself as will exore gold tract spectacular mines in Central vistas “Prescott’s premier Arizona. south over panoramic looking Located on the eastern luxury apartment rolling hills and natural of Prescott and nestled edge community,” Winfield surroundon the at the ings toward the south side of Bullwhacker Ranch is nearing Bradshaw competition. Hill, Mountains. the site was famous Pre-leasing is to for almost begin this The six-building 60 years – 1876 to month, with new apart1936 – as residents ment complex at Bullwhacker Mine. expected to begin 1470 Lee Records moving in Circle will house show that hundreds around March 1. 100 apartof gold ore were extractedtons of ment units, all of which Luxury may be the from germane the steep elevated views. Residentshave term for the apartments, hillsides before the here for will have almost mine closed. they are being built immediate on what access to retail shopping Now, those who rent the and

The soon-to-be completed 100 luxury apartments Prescott will feature at Winfield at one and two-bedroom begin in March. units on a seven-acrethe Ranch on the east boundary Photo by Ray Newton of property. Occupancy is scheduled January 2020 |

Issue 1 Volume

WHO’S THE

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BEST OF THE BEST?

OUR BEST OF BUSINESS WINNERS ARE ANNOUNCED ON PAGE 32

INSIDE THE FEBRUARY

Willow Creek Apart Ready for Occup ments ancy A By Ray Newton,

QCBN

rea residents who prefer apartments in the north-central area of Prescott now have that opportunity.

Willow Creek Apartments, a 160unit complex on a five-acre development located at 3137 Willow Creek Road, is accepting renters for studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom carriage house apartments. and

Owner-developer Cole Johnson told the Quad Cities house building and Business News fitness center. that the garden-style The approximate value apartments had been many years project is approaching of the total in the making. $40 million, Johnson said. “We now have from the City of Prescott certificates Six apartment floor of occupancy. plans range Residents are moving in square footage from about 670 to in. I’m thrilled to see these new 1,188 square feet. residents in what Floor plans can be I believe are the nicest viewed at willowcreekaptsprescott. apartments of their type in the com/floorplans. community.” Rental rates also can be viewed on the There are seven same link, Johnson buildings in the complex, one of said. They range which is the clubfrom $1,100 to $1,768 a month. Some utilities are included.

ERAU, Lowell Observatory Partner Up p. 4 Forest Health Hero Retires from Academia p. 6 Blushing Cactus Photography Showcases Quad Cities p. 8 Barrett-Jackson Gleams

2020 ISSUE:

with Car Show Tradition p. 11 Community Profile: Craig Brown Discusses Jail, Water Concerns p. 13

Currently, those interested can take advantage of the grand opening promotion, which allows the choice of a six-month rental option. Also available is an extended stay rental for a minimum of 30 days. Johnson said all units feature a fullsize washer and dryer, stainless steel kitchen appliances, granite counter tops and spacious living areas with wood plank flooring and carpeting, Continued on

page 36

Region Celebrates Terminal Constru Airport ction

By Ray Newton, QCBN tossing of dirt to initiate during years of planning construction process. the fter years of planning, and preparation. Prescott Regional an official groundAirStating the new port Director Robin breaking for the terminal Sobotta $15 will make it possible praised the support million passenger to inshe and terminal at crease the number the city Prescott Regional of flights to Airport had Aviationreceived from Federal and from Prescott, more than 200 invited Administration she emphaguests sized it would have Regional Administrator applauding and a dramatic cheering on Mark economic McClardy and his impact on the rethe afternoon of colleagues. Jan. 7 gional economy. She also thanked Dignitaries from Sobotta said TransportaPrescott, economic studies tion Security Administration Prescott Valley and reveal the Chino new terminal could Assistant Valley joined state generate as and federal Director Federal Security much as $160 million officials in the ceremonial Justin Bryant for annually the for the local economy. support the TSA provided

Dignitaries from around Airport’s new terminal. the Quad Cities dug in during the groundbreaking Photo by Kay Lyons

February 2020

| Issue 2 Volume 8

ceremony for Prescott

Regional

WHO’S THE

Continued on

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BEST OF THE BEST?

OUR BEST OF BUSINESS WINNERS ARE ANNOUNCED ON PAGE 32

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Quad Cities Business News // AUGUST 2022

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Serving Our Community and Our Pets

By Lucy Leyva

ere at Prescott Maid to Order, we know how important our furry friends are to our clients. We see it every day in the homes of the people we serve. Often, we find that the kids are all grown up and the companionship of the pets in these homes is paramount to the lives of our clients. Because of this, we offer pet sitting to our list of services and have designed a program called Prescott Maid to Order’s Forever Home Program. I will talk a little more about the program in a minute. But first, here are a few interesting health benefits of owning a pet, according to Women’s Day: N Decreases stress N Lowers blood pressure N Eases pain and anxiety N Lowers cholesterol N Improves mood N Helps people socialize N Prevents strokes N Monitors blood sugar levels for diabetics N Prevents allergies and improves immunity N Helps children develop Some homes also have service dogs that provide a valued service to someone with a disability. Many

times, these dogs are rescued from a shelter or rescue organization and trained to do specific tasks to assist someone with a particular disability. Tasks performed may be assisting and supporting someone who has balance and mobility issues. The dogs may pick up items from the floor or retrieve items for their handler. There are diabetic alert dogs that alert their handler when there is a spike in blood sugar. There are so many uses for specially trained service dogs that I am not able to list them now. Just keep in mind that dogs do not have to be purebred or a specific breed in most cases to learn these tasks. Whether a person is looking for a service dog or a pet, adopting or rescuing is a great option. Our Forever Home Program operates in conjunction with Yavapai Humane Society. The website Mighty Cause states, “Every day, 9,000 pets are killed in American shelters. However, the Yavapai Humane Society bucks that trend. YHS is the safest shelter in Arizona and among the safest in the nation, with a lifesaving rate of 97%.” What a great opportunity to serve. In a previous article a year or two back, I talked about community service

in business, stating, “While trying to grow a business, many companies locally and nationwide are seeing the value in serving their community and the world at large. Whether it be on a large or small scale, the value of volunteerism, contribution and service is of unlimited worth.” We are involved in several causes in our community, this being just one. So, what is the program about? We will feature a dog or cat (sometimes both at the same time) and post an ad anywhere we can get exposure for it, on our Facebook page, our website and several community pages. Often, it will be a pet that is older, maybe has been there longer or may not be the one that will get adopted quickly. We will post and repost if needed to try to get the word out, not only about that particular pet, but also for the cause of finding homes for any of the pets in YHS. When someone responds to one of our ads, either to us directly or to the Humane Society and then adopts our featured pet, we will in turn sponsor the fees. How fun is that? We ask people to “share” the ad to their page and to their friends so that the word will spread.

VOLUNTEER TO HELP A NEIGHBOR!

Changing Lives,

ONE NEIGHBOR AT A TIME For 30 Years People Who Care has been providing these services and more thanks to our dedicated volunteers and donors: • • • • • • • • • •

Rides to Essential Appointments Grocery Shopping Friendly Visits & Phone Calls Personal Paperwork Technology Assistance Home Safety Assessments Minor Home Repairs Family Caregiver Relief Support Groups Pets to Vets

PeopleWhoCareAZ.com Prescott: 928-445-2480 | Chino Valley: 928-636-3295 Prescott Valley/Dewey: 928-445-2480

Our homes not only put a roof over our heads, but house and protect those we love, including our pets. It’s where we make memories, enjoy our quiet time, recuperate from a long day at work, celebrate with those we hold dear and much more. If you have been considering the companionship of a new pet, we encourage you to check out our Forever Home

Program on our website or Facebook page and visit the Yavapai Humane Society. We love our clients and we love our pets! QCBN Lucy Leyva is the owner of Prescott Maid to Order and Prescott Property Maintenance.

AUGUST 2022 // Quad Cities Business News

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Treating Emotional Disorders with Maskers

By Jeff Lane, Au.D.

ften when discussing hearing aids with a new patient, they’ll ask, “They just make things louder, right?” Yes, hearing aids do amplify auditory signals, but they also offer so much more. In fact, they are like mini-computers for your ears. New models can stream music and count your steps! But perhaps one of the most useful features is the masker. A masker is essentially a customizable static-like noise emitted by the hearing aids. While it can address a variety of conditions, today I want to focus on two: PTSD and misophonia.

MASKERS AND PTSD

According to the National Institutes of Mental Health, 6.8% of the pop-

ulation will develop PTSD at some point in their lives. Causes of PTSD can vary widely, but the significant impact on the sufferer’s quality of life is consistent. PTSD actually modifies brain volume in the areas regulating stress, impeding the ability to control emotional reactions. In relation to changes in the auditory system, some studies show that physiologic changes decrease a person’s ability to filter out intrusive stimuli and focus on only what they want to hear. Essentially, people with PTSD are more likely to be unable to direct their focus away from environmental sounds. They will be more easily startled by sounds and have stronger emotional reactions. Maskers can help by drawing attention away from the chaotic

// Maskers can help by drawing attention away from the chaotic environment around the patient. The user will have a steady signal to focus on and sudden sounds will not be as sharp. The masker sound will act to dull the external stimuli to a certain degree. //

environment around the patient. The user will have a steady signal to focus on and sudden sounds will not be as sharp. The masker sound will act to dull the external stimuli to a certain degree. Plus, the masker is totally customizable, meaning it can be programmed exactly as the patient wants. It can also be adjusted over time as needs change. Studies have also shown that maskers can help manage tinnitus, which has a high comorbidity with PTSD, especially among veterans. Tinnitus in PTSD patients can trigger traumatic memories and is shown to be much more likely to be influenced by external sounds. Plus, tinnitus itself can cause increased levels of stress. Using a masker can decrease the perceived intensity of the tinnitus; thus, lowering stress levels. I want to note that counseling provided by a trained professional is essential to recovery as well, but maskers can be used as part of a multidisciplinary approach.

MASKERS AND MISOPHONIA

Misophonia is a condition in which certain sounds elicit strong anger and disgust in a person. It is not related to trauma, like the emotional reactions in PTSD sufferers. And it is more severe than the annoyance

you might feel when somebody clicks their pen. For those with misophonia, the sound of someone chewing, for example, leads to significant anger that can cause them to lash out at the person making the sound or go out of their way to avoid being near the sound source. Imagine the frustration you feel when planes keep flying overhead, but more intense and for everyday sounds. This is the daily reality for people with misophonia. And, not surprisingly, this can lead to the individual constantly feeling tense and anxious. For those of you who have misophnoia, there is good news. First, you are not crazy or overreacting. A British study actually performed fMRI on those with misophonia and those without. They were specifically focusing on the anterior insular cortex (AIC), which helps control emotions and integrate bodily sensations, such as hunger or heartbeat. The scans showed that the AIC was far more active in response to certain sounds in those with misophonia than in the control group. In essence, their brains respond disproportionately to trigger sounds, similar to how the immune system overacts for those with allergies.

The second piece of good news is that misophonia can be managed with maskers. Similar to those with PTSD, the masker takes the edge off of the bothersome noises; thus, making the emotional response more manageable. I recently fit a patient with maskers for her misophonia. She reported that she was able to relax more and that the maskers were a great tool for her. Just like with PTSD, counseling services can also be a wonderful treatment. The counselor would work to slowly expose the patient to triggering sounds and reframe their emotional response in a more positive light. Given that PTSD and misophonia possess emotional components, a team approach with multiple specialties will always provide the best outcome. Ask your audiologist which treatments will best improve your quality of life. QCBN Trinity Hearing Center is located at 1330 N. Rim Dr., Suite B in Flagstaff. For more information, visit the website at TrinityHearing.net. Jeff Lane is a doctor of audiology with a passion for improving the lives of others. Dr. Lane may be reached at 928-522-0500 or at audio@ trinityhearing.net.

Quad Cities Business News // AUGUST 2022

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Yavapai College Positions for the Future

By Lisa B. Rhine

his past year was a landmark year for Yavapai College (YC), filled with outstanding accomplishments, partnerships and exciting things to come. As president of YC, I can assure you that where we are today did not happen overnight. Our faculty, staff and administrators have worked tirelessly through the last several years to transform the institution’s collective approach into one that is forward-thinking, innovative and student-centered.

Please, make no mistake, rebounding from the COVID-19 pandemic was not an easy task. Our faculty, staff, students and communities remained resilient throughout the most difficult times, making it possible to return to in-person classes and faceto-face services in fall 2021. Not only did we return in person, but we hit the ground running. We understand that the landscape of higher education is changing. Our workforce has many options available to reskill and upskill. The skills and degrees that businesses are now seeking have flipped in the last few years.

// Our job as educators is to be flexible and adaptable, and at Yavapai College, we are working to do just that. Our new strategic plan, enacted this past year, lays the framework for what we believe is an innovative approach that addresses the needs of our students and our communities. //

Our job as educators is to be flexible and adaptable, and at Yavapai College, we are working to do just that. Our new strategic plan, enacted this past year, lays the framework for what we believe is an innovative approach that addresses the needs of our students and our communities.

THE STRATEGIC PLAN INCLUDES FOUR PILLARS: 1.

Belonging: Strengthen our commitment to individual and organizational efforts to build respect, dignity, caring, equality and self-esteem in all employees and students.

Living Wage: Ensure a program mix that prepares graduates to obtain living wage jobs.

Adult Learners: Respond to shifting community and workforce needs to serve adult learners.

Delivery: Redefine time, place and methods of educational delivery to create a more learner-centric environment.

Education, economic development and community activities and support continue to focus on student success as our No. 1 priority. Student success includes high school, current, future, traditional, non-traditional, lifelong learners, personal interest and everyone in between. We know that individuals’ successes directly impact our communities’ future. The knowledge, skills and expertise they gain from Yavapai College will enhance the quality of life for us all. Throughout the coming months, I will use this space to showcase some fantastic academic programs, student success initiatives, community events and more that allow Yavapai College to be a premier place to learn and grow. I hope you continue to support Yavapai College’s endeavors and the future of many students who need accessible and affordable education in our communities. QCBN Lisa B. Rhine, Ph.D., is the president of Yavapai College. In February 2019, Dr. Lisa B. Rhine became the 10th president of Yavapai College, bringing to the institution more than 30

years of leadership experience across a number of leading colleges and universities in Ohio, Kentucky and Virginia. Dr. Rhine assumed this role with a commitment to advance the mission of the college while ensuring access and support to those for whom opportunities may have been historically limited or denied. Yavapai College offers over 100 degrees and certificates, student and community services, and cultural events and activities at six locations throughout Yavapai County, including campuses in Prescott and Clarkdale, and centers in Prescott Valley, Chino Valley, Sedona and the Prescott Airport.

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AUGUST 2022 // Quad Cities Business News

Quad Cities Business News // AUGUST 2022

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pet news

Supporting Police Dog Heroes Pet store owner raises funds for K-9 unit By Betsey Bruner, QCBN

store,” she said. “We have raffled off baskets, had sponsors for events and did demonstrations to raise awareness. here are unsung heroes in our We would like to get the story out so all midst and they need our help. of Prescott is aware of this amazing K-9 Meet two of the police dogs program and that they could use our of the Prescott Police Department K-9 help. These dogs work and live with Unit, Cooper and Benny, yellow Labradors their handlers to get illegal drugs and the drug dealers off of our streets.” that are highly trained in the detection Ridding communities of illegal drugs of narcotics. can be a dangerous job for officers, Also known as Super Cooper and B-Dog, they work in concert with their but police dogs can lessen some of the two handlers, police officers Alltop and dangers for their handlers. “Dogs are sent into dangerous situaCrawford, to keep dangerous drugs off tions for officers like bomb and hostage the streets in the Prescott area. situations, with the dogs helping take Although grants fund some of the down the criminals,” Haffner said. needs of the K-9 Unit, little is left to cover the cost of emergencies and addi- “When they pull someone over, dogs tional items needed for the basic care of can alert officers that there are drugs in a vehicle or on a person. They’ve gotten the dogs, such as food and medicines. a lot of fentanyl off the streets. It can Sandy Haffner, owner of Preskitt’s take just a whiff to kill someone. There Pawz N Clawz pet store on Gail Gardare teenagers who are dying from ner Way in Prescott, was moved to experimenting with them.” action when she learned of this gap in She said that a visit to the Prescott funding of the narcotics detection dogs. Helping the police K-9 drug-sniffing Police K-9 Unit on Facebook shows several drug busts including photos of dogs soon became her passion. Cooper and Benny. “We are referred to as Grandma’s Efforts at the store to raise money to House for Benny and Cooper,” Haffner contribute to the costs of maintaining said. “We allow them to do whatever their hearts desire in our store. Cooper the two police dogs started right after opening with three tabletop set-ups loves to pick treats from the raw bar and Benny picks out a new stuffed dog by the two handlers to sell police merchandise both inside and outside of the toy every time he gets a chance!” premises. When she opened her store in DeIn the spring, the pet store sponsored cember 2020, Haffner offered free baths a more elaborate event. for Prescott police dogs using the two “We did our first Fashion Dog tubs and two showers in the self-service Show in April 2021,” she said. “It was a dog bath at her business. “I met with the two canine officers at success, considering I was new and still the time and they brought the two dogs building my store. We raised a good in and washed their dogs,” she recalled. amount of money for them, $1,600.” The second annual Fashion Dog “They let me know the police K-9 unit Show a year later was even more is not funded by the departments, so they raise money for the dogs by doing successful, raising more than $4,500 to benefit the police dogs. merchandise sales. They sell t-shirts “It was an ‘80s themed Fashion and police badges.” Dog Show. They had a variety of neon Haffner invited the officers to set colors and leg warmers to show their up tables outside her store to sell their ‘80s fashion style.” merchandise and also to let people Cooper and Benny and their two know their dogs are grant-based and officers also participated in the June funded by donations. 2021 Woofdown Lunch, an annual “With that information, I started event benefitting the United Friends of fundraisers through events in my

Sandy Haffner, owner of Preskitt’s Pawz N Clawz pet store, presents a check for $4,500 on May 17 to Prescott Police Officer Shapiro. The funds, generated from the second annual Fashion Dog Show at the store, will help support the department’s two narcotics detection dogs. Pictured are Benny’s handler Officer Crawford, Officer Shapiro, Haffner and Cooper’s handler Officer Alltop. Courtesy photo by Sandy Haffner

Animals, a Yavapai County non-profit that has found loving adoptive homes for more than 6,000 cats and dogs. “That was another way for them to get out and introduce themselves to the public,” Haffner said. The next noteworthy occasion that will highlight the work and heroism of police dogs will be a free demonstration day, 3 to 6 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 1, for National Police Fallen K-9 Day, in the parking lot at Preskitt’s Pawz N Clawz, at the Walmart shopping center. “This event is an opportunity for our community to come together in memory of the fallen Law Enforcement K-9 Officers, while honoring the Tri Cities K-9s that continue to hold the line,” states a July press release. “There are so many dogs that die in the line of duty and it’s so sad,” said Haffner. “We will have our nine local police dogs from different agencies here to demonstrate what they do. We have dogs that do bite work, narcotic detective dogs and dogs that go up into the mountains to find people, whether they’re dead or alive. It’s really a cool

event; we did it last year. This year will be even bigger.” Haffner is also a certified pet nutritionist, an interest that began when she and her family, husband Roman and their two daughters, were caring for their beloved dog, Kelcee, who suffered from severe allergies. “We had a very sick German shepherd and we cared for her through her sickness. We did more research into pet nutrition, but ultimately we lost her from kidney failure. I decided to study pet nutrition online. We could have saved her if we knew what we know today. That’s why we’re saving other dogs today. We wanted to open a store that was not just a store but to educate the public to help their sick dogs and cats.” The couple made the decision two years ago to move from Las Vegas, where they had a graphics sign store, to Prescott where they hoped to escape the heat and congestion and to launch their first pet store. Today, the store specializes in pet nutrition, with high-quality food and treats, as well as accessories. In-store consultations about issues of

pet diet and health increases the store’s outreach. For the hardworking police dogs, the key to their health is a completely raw diet, Haffner said. “It’s an all-raw diet, OC Raw, that these working canines are thriving on, because they are fed the most species-appropriate raw diet.” The store is a woman-owned business, with Sandy holding a majority of the share. As co-owners, Sandy and Roman give a 10% discount to the department on all purchases, including the raw diet. “We at OC Raw are so happy to see people like Sandy at Preskitt’s Pawz and Clawz support such a great cause, and are proud to support her in her mission and dedication to the community and those that protect it,” said OC Raw Vice President of Sales Tom Allen. Haffner said there are a lot of supporters of the K-9 units in the Prescott area, including retired police and retired dog handlers. “I know people would want to help,” she added. “They can donate at the police department, too.” QCBN

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AUGUST 2022 // Quad Cities Business News

Quad Cities Business News // AUGUST 2022

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Giving Shelter Dogs a Second Look

By Loree Walden

onsider this: Dogs don’t wake up one day and decide they don’t love you or want you anymore. However, it seems that some humans behave this way with their pets. We see it more often than you’d think. Sometimes a family that had a dog its whole life finds it doesn’t get along with their new puppy, so they surrender the one who’s been with them for 10 years. It’s unfathomable to me, but you would be surprised how many people literally trade in their old dog for a new one. How do

you just walk away from a member of your family? That dog has no idea what it did wrong, why it’s here at the Yavapai Humane Society (YHS) or what’s going to happen to it. It’s scared and it’s waiting for the family to come back for it. But they’re not coming back and here it sits every day while countless people walk by, not even giving him a chance because he’s an older dog. So many dogs are overlooked every single day. Potential pet owners often reject an old dog or a certain breed. They may see them barking and

// Dogs don’t care what you do for a living, what kind of car you drive, how big your house is, what you look like, what you’re wearing or any of that. They only care that they have a safe home and a family that loves them. They only want to give you their unconditional love for the rest of their lives, to be beside you through good and bad times and to always make things better. //

jumping up or maybe just lying on their beds doing nothing and keep walking past them. Do you think any of those dogs are judging humans as they walk by their kennels? The dogs likely aren’t thinking, “Hmmm, that one’s too old to play with me, that one’s dirty, that one smells funny, that one looks mean, I don’t like that one’s hair color, so just walk on by me please because I’m not interested in you.” Dogs don’t care what you do for a living, what kind of car you drive, how big your house is, what you look like, what you’re wearing or any of that. They only care that they have a safe home and a family that loves them. They only want to give you their unconditional love for the rest of their lives, to be beside you through good and bad times and to always make things better. I don’t think people really understand what they might be walking past when they walk by the kennels. Perhaps that dog in the kennel is one of the most lovable, devoted and precious dogs a family will ever know. Take Gina, for example. She’s an 11-year-old American pit bull mix who’s been at YHS since August of 2021, except for the 28 days she was adopted and returned for being dog

reactive. Her original owners had her for 10 years but had to surrender her because they were moving! (Don’t even get me started!) She has awful kennel presence because she either just lies there against the door so you can’t really see her or she’s barking and jumping up. So, people just walk by and don’t ask about her. This is a mistake because she’s the most lovable, precious, devoted, loyal and playful dog. She’s been hanging out with us in the administrative building every day, following us around, lying in one of her three beds, munching on treats, coming to us for some loving and to be scratched (she loves it and does this cute little thing with her back legs while we scratch). If you come meet her, you’ll see it. We take her out in the bark park and play with her with her favorite things, tennis balls! There is no such thing as too many being thrown for that girl because she’ll fetch them all for you. If potential pet owners walking by her kennel would give her a chance, rather than disregarding the 11-year-old pit bull, I have no doubt they would see the real Gina and fall in love with her just like we have. She’s playful yet chill and a little goofy. She

likes learning new things and has even learned “shake” while hanging out with us. She is so full of love and just wants someone to take her to her “furever” home so she can be their best friend. Trust me, we’d take her home in a heartbeat if we both didn’t already have our own menagerie of furry family members at our homes. The point of this column is to encourage pet shoppers not to judge a book by its cover, to get to know dogs and their stories, and not to wake up one day and decide they don’t love or want their pets anymore. QCBN

Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.

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AUGUST 2022 // Quad Cities Business News

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Understanding the Microbiome of the Dog

By Sandy Haffner

id you know that the dog has trillions of little friends who manage his microbiome? Your dog is made up of trillions of little cells. These cells form your dog’s bones, organs and skin. And their functions are controlled by your dog’s genes. There are other residents in your dog such as tiny little microorganisms like bacteria, fungi and viruses. The bacteria in your dog outnumber his cells 10 to 1! The bacteria genes outnumber your dog’s genes by more than 100 times. These

little communities of microbes are called the microbiome. And, if you neglect to treat his little friends as well as you treat your dog, his health will suffer. In fact, the microbiome is so important to your dog’s health that it’s called the “forgotten organ.” A healthy microbiome has thousands of different kinds of microbes to make up a diverse, balanced community. But when there aren’t enough beneficial microbes or there are too many harmful ones, some of that community’s important functions stop working and your pet may develop uncomfortable symptoms

// The microbes in your dog’s microbiome can protect your dog from viruses like parvovirus or distemper, fungi like yeast, harmful bacteria like E. coli or salmonella and other pathogens and leptospirosis or Lyme. The friendly bacteria secrete chemicals that can kill off these harmful invaders. When friendly bacteria outnumber the pathogenic bacteria, they steal nutrients and space. //

like diarrhea or itchy skin. This kind of disruption in the gut microbiome can be caused by a variety of factors, including disease, age, diet and medications - especially antibiotics. The microbes in your dog’s microbiome can protect your dog from viruses like parvovirus or distemper, fungi like yeast, harmful bacteria like E. coli or salmonella and other pathogens and leptospirosis or Lyme. The friendly bacteria secrete chemicals that can kill off these harmful invaders. When friendly bacteria outnumber the pathogenic bacteria, they steal nutrients and space. This starves the pathogenic bacteria and leaves them nowhere to attach to in the gut. The microbiome can form a protective barrier. This offers defense against drugs, toxins, allergens and carcinogens. The little microbes can also attach to invaders. This prevents toxins from moving deeper into the body and removes them in the feces. The friendly bacteria in your dog’s gut microbiome produce special proteins called enzymes. These help your dog digest and use his food. If those friendly bacteria aren’t around, your dog won’t get the nutrition he needs from his meals. These bacteria transport nutrients across the intestinal wall and into your dog’s bloodstream.

This provides energy support to his cells to maintain their health and build new ones. These microbes also produce short-chain fatty acids by fermenting fiber in your dog’s colon. These critical fats help to absorb important minerals, including calcium, magnesium and iron. The gut-brain axis is his communication system between the microbiome and his brain. The little bugs that live in your dog talk with your dog’s brain through nerves and hormones. The brain can signal the microbiome and demand more food or even control the immune system. By far, the most important job of the microbiome is to support the immune system. Your dog’s intestinal tract is lined with a mucous membrane. In this membrane is something called the GALT, or gut-associated lymphoid tissue. The GALT works very closely with the microbiome to form up to 90% of your dog’s immune system. The GALT contains special immune cells, such as lymphocytes, T and B cells. These cells are the main workers in the immune system. The GALT is so critical that it’s the largest organ in your dog’s immune system. So your dog’s microbiome plays a

key role not just in his nutrition, but in his health and happiness. Most processed foods are high in starch. Sugar and refined starches are quickly absorbed before the microbes can digest them. This leaves them looking for an alternate source of food. And the microbes can start to eat away the cells that line your dog’s intestines. This often shows up as allergy symptoms, yeast, joint pain and other ailments. Processed foods are also sterile. The bacteria have been heated and processed out of them. The microbes living in your dog’s gut die off and need to be replaced in his diet. If his food is deficient in bacteria, your dog’s microbiome will begin to become less populated and the colonies will start to die off without any new immigrants. QCBN

Sandy Haffner is a pet nutrition specialist and owner of Preskitt’s Pawz N Clawz.

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Quad Cities Business News // AUGUST 2022

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Optimizing Nutrition for Your Canine Companion By Armaiti May, DVM

e’ve all heard the expression “You are what you eat.” It follows that your dog is what he or she eats. While we know that proper diet is an important aspect of maintaining good health, the question of what to feed our beloved canine companions looms large since many of the commercially available pet foods contain hidden harmful ingredients. Up to 50% of commercial pet food brands are comprised of “meat meal” and “byproducts,” which include various body parts (such as beaks, brains, spinal cord tissue, bones, lungs, intestinal tracts), slaughterhouse wastes, 4-D meat (from dead, dying, diseased or disabled animals), and supermarket

rejects. Other contaminants that have been found in commercial pet foods include old restaurant grease containing high concentrations of dangerous free radicals and trans fatty acids, PCBs, heavy metals, bacterial, protozoal and fungal, viral and prion contaminants, along with their associated endotoxins and mycotoxins, hormone and antibiotic residues and dangerous preservatives. Many speculate that the increase in incidences of cancers, kidney failure and other degenerative diseases in animal companions is partly caused by poor nutrition. Feeding dogs meat also requires that other animals suffer and be killed. Fortunately, there is a better way. For both ethical and health

// Dogs are biologically omnivorous and can thus adapt well to a plant-based diet as long as it meets all their nutritional needs. They have nutrient requirements, not ingredient requirements, and these can be fulfilled through plant, mineral and synthetic sources. //

reasons, many dog guardians choose to feed their companion dogs plantbased diets. Dogs are biologically omnivorous and can thus adapt well to a plant-based diet as long as it meets all their nutritional needs. They have nutrient requirements, not ingredient requirements, and these can be fulfilled through plant, mineral and synthetic sources. Therefore, dogs can be healthy - and, in fact, thrive - on a nutritionally complete and balanced vegan diet. Benefits of plant-based diets include avoidance of persistent organic pollutants and heavy metal toxins found in much higher concentrations in even the “organic” meats, which may help prevent cancer as well as lead to improvement in skin allergies and digestive health. It’s important that the food be digested easily as well as have good palatability. The transition to a plant-based diet should be gradual to minimize the occurrence of gastrointestinal upset (such as diarrhea and sometimes vomiting). In 17 years of treating dogs, I have diagnosed many dogs with food allergies. Beef and chicken are the most common allergies in dogs. Vegan diets may bring these food allergic dogs much-needed relief. For dog breeds predisposed to urinary problems such as urinary crystals,

moist food is a better choice because the higher water intake helps to dilute out the urine and reduce the incidence of crystal formation. One of the potential but unlikely risks associated with vegan diets in dogs is the occurrence of struvite crystals, which can occur if the urine pH becomes too alkaline but also tend to occur if there is insufficient moisture in the diet and/or if the dog has a predisposition to urinary tract infections. (This problem affects certain breeds of dogs more commonly such as shih tzus, miniature schnauzers, bichon frises, miniature poodles, cocker spaniels and Lhasa apsos.) Adding water to the dry food or encouraging the dog to drink water can help make the urine less concentrated, which makes it less likely for crystals to form. Having your veterinarian check a urinalysis two to three weeks after switching the dog from a meat-based to a plant-based diet will determine what the urine pH is, as well as whether any crystals are present, heading off any problems before they start. If the urine pH is too high, various acidifying agents can be used. Certain dog breeds are predisposed to DCM (dilated cardiomyopathy), a form of heart disease that may be influenced by insufficient intake of taurine and/or carnitine

(amino acids, which are naturally occurring in flesh foods but can be added to the diet via synthetic supplements that are readily available. Doberman pinschers, boxers, “giant breeds” (Scottish deerhounds, Irish wolfhounds, Great Danes, Saint Bernards, Afghan hounds), and cocker spaniels are the dog breeds predisposed to DCM. If someone has one of the predisposed breeds, it may be beneficial to supplement with taurine and/or carnitine if not already present in the vegan diet, in conjunction with consulting one’s veterinarian. QCBN Armaiti May, DVM is an integrative housecall veterinarian for dogs and cats practicing in the Quad Cities area. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in bioresource sciences from UC Berkeley in 2001. After graduating from University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in 2005, Dr. May worked at an emergency dog and cat hospital and then trained in veterinary acupuncture through the Chi Institute of Chinese Medicine. She also founded a non-profit organization called the Veterinary Association for the Protection of Animals, to provide education about the benefits of a vegan lifestyle.

Listen with Your Heart

Dancing from Tonga to Vienna Art by Susanne@susanneclark.com

Maestro Peter Bay Conducting Featuring: International Steinway Artist Thomas Pandolfi

August 21 3 pm

Are You Ready to Get Back to Work Five things to do now:  Dust off and update your resume. We can help.  Available resource center for online job search, application submittal, resume development and community resources  Let us provide you with in-person job leads and referrals for your future career path  Jobs are available in all careers; meet with our Specialists to learn more about in-demand industries Yavapai County  NACOG can assist you with placement incentives such as on the Job Training and Work Experiences; Gain certification in a new career with occupational training for long-term success.

Visit AZPhil.org for ticket information

Season t ickets on sa le now

Equal Opportunity Employer/Funding through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act For more information, please call NACOG at: 928-778-1422 Or visit: www.yavapaiatwork.com

AUGUST 2022 // Quad Cities Business News

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// MAYOR’S ADDRESS // BY PHIL GOODE

Testing Prescott Area Wells

n July 8, the City of Prescott learned that recent test results found the presence of manmade chemicals called perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) in two of its water production wells located in the airport area. While PFOA and PFOS are not currently regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ), there are research findings that support the possibility that these compounds may be harmful to human health. The City took immediate action to shut down the two wells. Shortly thereafter, I met with the Public Works Department and the city manager’s

office to assess the situation and begin planning for remediation and testing on the other city wells. Our team met with ADEQ staff, and I hosted a Town Hall meeting where more than 70 citizens attended either in person or virtually. During our meeting, ADEQ agreed to test our other five wells. We expect to receive these test results by the end of September. The testing of the airport wells was part of a state-wide ADEQ testing of more than 236 sites, primarily near airports and other areas where firefighting training took place. This is because the firefighting foam used in aircraft accidents, while highly effective at protecting lives and property, does contain these chemicals. ADEQ informed us

Smile, You’re on Camera

By Jon and Jamie Aten

n today’s society, you are captured on camera about 238 times a week, according to studyfinds. com. Whether it’s passing by your neighbor’s surveillance camera or popping into a convenience store, your image is being filmed. It’s easy to forget the fact we’re on camera much of the time as we move on with our day. But, do all of these cameras really deter crime? According to techradar. com, which interviewed a past felon, yes, burglars don’t like getting caught and will skip over a home or business with visible cameras outside. Security cameras today offer a higher developed technology and capture cleaner and clearer images. Large amounts of footage can also easily be stored in a smartphone or tablet with a monitoring service or subscription. Some cameras are also motion activated, so you don’t need them running all the time. However, a camera should not be your only line of defense. Lighting and a monitored alarm system can add the best protection. For more sophisticated surveillance cameras, like for a large warehouse, high-grade equipment works better. These systems can even integrate with control access systems so when someone enters your facility with their badge credentials, your camera system will record the entrance. No more clocking in late! But one of the first decisions you need to consider when looking at adding surveillance system is where you are going to put it. Again, having in full view can often deter

any thieves, but it also important to consider whether a wireless or wired system is best for your needs. Most high-definition surveillance video that needs to record over long periods of time needs a higher bandwidth. This may also require it to be wired versus wireless. If you need to do surveillance inside your home or office, there are also hidden camera options that are more discreet and fit into everyday objects such as clocks, smoke detectors and more. These hidden cameras can be connected to a CCTV camera system that also records. The end goal is to protect your property and yourself. Whether it’s a simple wireless or an elaborate wired system, the choices are many for capturing and recording what is most important to you. Remember to smile throughout your day! QCBN Jon and Jamie Aten are the owners of All West Fire & Security. All West Fire & Security, a family-owned business, has been keeping Arizonans safe in Prescott for nearly 30 years. They’ve designed and installed thousands of fire protection and security systems for industrial, commercial, residential and special hazard clients. They work closely with architects and contractors to ensure your new construction or remodeling project meets all safety code requirements. All West Fire & Security are experts in smart home automation, state-of-the-art fire suppression systems, inspections, sprinklers, fire alarms, fire extinguishers, monitoring, intrusion alarms, security cameras, badge access systems, backflow certifications and more.

that 51 wells around the state showed levels higher than the Health Advisory Level (HAL), including the two city airport wells. It should be noted that back in 2018, the same city wells were tested by the ADEQ. Both wells passed with levels far below the EPA guidelines at the time. Since then, the EPA has changed the requirement to a far more stringent level. I would also like to stress that these levels are only guidelines, not regulations. It is anticipated that the EPA will issue Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) regulations for these chemicals in 2024, after a formal federal rulemaking process, which includes a public comment period. It is highly likely that the MCL will be far

higher than the current HAL. For now, the city is voluntarily following the advisory levels. We will not turn on the two airport wells until we have a way to remove the chemical effectively from the water, or meet the advisory level as recommended. We will report more information as it becomes available. We will continue to work with the ADEQ and engineering firms to identify and implement a program to remove the chemicals from city water as quickly and effectively as possible. Be assured that the quality and safety of our drinking water is of the utmost importance to our entire city leadership and staff. Even before

this finding, we monitored our wells monthly for several contaminants, including arsenic, and publish those results online. We will work to swiftly and effectively remedy this situation. In the meantime, citizens can be assured that the quality of the drinking water is safe. We have a page dedicated to this matter, including a link to the Town Hall video, past press releases and links to resources from the ADEQ, EPA and other sources: https://www.prescott-az. gov/water-sewer/pfas-andpfos-resource-center/. QCBN Phil Goode is the mayor of Prescott.

Anthony Torres, M.D., Named President, CEO of Dignity Health, YRMC

By Ken Boush

ignity Health has announced that Anthony Torres, M.D., will serve as the next president and chief executive officer of Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC). Dr. Torres has nearly 40 years of healthcare experience, and his leadership skills, medical expertise and dedication to the community are an excellent fit for leading YRMC into the future. “Dr. Torres was selected for the role after an in-depth process that involved the Yavapai Regional Medical Center Board, executive leadership and medical staff,” said Tim Bricker, interim president, Dignity Health, Southwest Division. “His institutional knowledge, clinical experience, and strong reputation will be great assets in helping YRMC to grow services to meet the needs of an expanding population, as well as to enhance access to care in an increasing competitive healthcare environment. Look for Dr. Torres to continue to build community and physician partnerships and continue important integration work with Dignity Health.” Torres has been a member of the YRMC team for 13 years, and has served as the hospital’s chief medical officer (CMO) since 2016. As CMO, Torres has provided leadership for the highly effective Medical Executive Committee. In addition, Torres has championed several quality programs to support patient care, and he has been instrumental in the ongoing de-

velopment of the James Family Heart Center. Prior to becoming CMO, Torres was the medical director for Yavapai Regional Medical Group (YRMG). In this role, he was a catalyst for growth across the organization and helped develop neurosurgical, palliative medicine and behavioral health programs. Torres is an internal medicine physician by training, having completed his medical degree at the Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara in Guadalajara, Anthony Torres, M.D., President and CEO, Dignity Health, Mexico, followed by Yavapai Regional Medical Center internship and residency training at the Hunter S.P.O.R.T.S. Medical Center at Fairview Heights, Illinois. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for Northland Cares in Prescott. Torres assumed his new leadership duties on July 11. John Amos, who announced his retirement in March, will continue to provide advisory and transition support through Friday, Sept. 30. QCBN Ken Boush is the director of marketing and communications at Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Center.

Quad Cities Business News // AUGUST 2022

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Hydration is Key to Staying Healthy

By Candace Lea

ydration is such an important part of staying healthy. Staying ahead of your thirst is really a key facture. Watching what we put into our bodies such as caffeine, which can dehydrate, can also be a benefit. Ingesting other foods and liquids besides water is also really helpful. Back in the 1970s and ‘80s, we didn’t walk around with a water bottle like we do now. This is progress! But where does that leave our elders who did not grow up with the push to stay hydrated? The balance of having our elders enjoy the warm sunshine and stay hydrated at the same time requires some creativity. Let’s start with getting ahead of the thirst and what that means for our senior populations. The reason we want to stay ahead of the thirst is because once we have reached the point of dry mouth, we are most likely already getting dehydrated. Encourage fluids, especially water, throughout the day by having water readily available such as the water bottle they carry, or a large water container placed on a nearby counter with little water glasses for easy access. Make water the first thing they ingest when they start the day and the last thing they in-

Residents of the Margaret T. Morris Assisted Living Center enjoy a hydrating slice of watermelon during the warm summer months. Courtesy photo

gest at the end of day. If it’s a struggle to stay ahead of the hydration train, then maybe set a timer or have them drink a little sip at the start of each hour. Be cognizant of what our seniors are putting into their bodies that cause dehydration: fried foods, salty foods, alcohol, caffeine, medications, supplements and sugary foods. Educate yourself on what is hydrating and what is not. It’s

true, knowledge is power! Have a snack that is hydrating: watermelon (the name says it all!), cantaloupe, apples, pineapple, celery, watercress and cucumbers. If you know that your elder is not going to drink enough water, try to encourage a few of these water filled treats into their day. Make water yummy. Who doesn’t like a nice flavor in our water? You can

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7 a.m. registration - 8 a.m. Shotgun start / $125 per person - $450 per foursome Includes green fees, golf cart, goody bag, delicious lunch, prizes and awards. This tournament has it all; a great golf course, first class hospitality,fun prizes, delicious food and perfect Chamber weather. Gather your co-workers, colleagues and business partners for a day of fun networking and of course, great golf! Holes in One sponsored by Lamb Chevrolet. Golf Carts sponsored by Pet Headquarters. Lunch sponsored by Arizona’s Hometown Radio Group To register online visit pvaz.net or call 928-772-8857. Get your business name out by sponsoring a t-box or donating a raffle prize. Contact Kim for more information. Fore!!

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add lemon, lime, orange, strawberry, mint and cucumber to the water to give it a little pick-me-up. The point of all of this is keeping our elders healthy, because that is what hydration is all about. When you know they are going to be outdoors, help them to dress accordingly and make

sure if it gets too warm that they can slip into the shade. We want them to partake in the benefits of the fresh air and sunshine and to be healthy while doing it! QCBN Candace Lea, MBA, is the community liaison for Adult Care Services.

AUGUST 2022 // Quad Cities Business News

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Supporting Mental Clarity, Physical Energy By Anita Farrelly and Jessica Dickinson

ental clarity and physical energy are needed to function at our highest potential. When we are dealing with stress, a ripple effect impacts life. We might lose focus, patience, feel exhausted, get stuck in our heads and ultimately lose control of our relationships, work and purpose in life. What if it could be different? What if there was a way to make it better? What if every morning you woke up feeling energized, grounded and

excited for the day’s possibilities? You greet your family and colleagues with a new level of presence and alertness. You are motivated in creativity and optimistic about projects at work, home and family gatherings. Does this sound too good to be true? Our bodies are complex, amazing machines, made up of cells, organs, tissues, blood and bones. Ideally, we live in a state of homeostasis, also known as peace. However, with progress in technology, social issues, political debates and the neverending pursuit of more, we continuously and

// Getting routine IV vitamin and hydration infusions with antioxidants will help flush out the toxins, neutralize negative impacts and free radicals that are causing havoc on your cells, and give your body a chance to reset, renew and flourish once again. //

repeatedly put stress on our body. Although this amazing machine was designed to be resilient and rejuvenate, at a certain point, too much is simply too much. Think about it, what’s the first thing you take care of every day? Usually, our attention goes to what is broken. We answer emails, complete to-do lists, clean up messes and are almost always in fix-it mode. In fact, how many of us make New Year’s resolutions full of self-care activities, only to abandon them three days later? Why? Because something broke and we have to shift our attention. And then something else needs attention. And the pattern continues. Your liver is the dump truck of your body. Its primary role is to filter out the bad and keep the good. But it is so backed up by your stressful life that it can’t keep up with the demands. It has no time to be strategic and stay ahead. But you can help yourself! Getting routine IV vitamin and hydration infusions with antioxidants will help flush out the toxins, neutralize negative impacts and free radicals that are causing havoc on your cells, and give your body a chance to reset, renew and flourish once again. But how do we reimagine our

energy? Through the addition of a coenzyme called NAD+, short for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, an incredible coenzyme that assists your mitochondria with its primary role, which is to produce energy for your cells. Energy for your cells equates to energy for your life. NAD+ is produced naturally in your body. But it declines as you age, eat poorly and are exposed to stress. It can decrease even more if you are exposed to or use drugs and alcohol. Administered intravenously by a registered nurse, under the direction of a physician, NAD+ is a safe way to rejuvenate your clarity and energy. When given via IV, this critical coenzyme goes straight into your bloodstream for maximum bioavailability and cellular assistance. Overall benefits of regular NAD+ infusions include: N Increased mental clarity N Better memory N Higher concentration N Improved moods N Better problem-solving skills N Improved cardiovascular health N More energy N Increased metabolism N Reduced inflammation N Quicker recovery from

injury Decreased pain Sharpened eyesight Improved hearing Diminished cravings for harmful substances N Mitigated withdrawal symptoms N Assisted weight loss N Protected nerves N Slowing of the aging process NAD+ therapy is available through an IV vitamin and hydration Infusion. It takes approximately 60 minutes to deliver, so you can fill your life with energy, clarity, motivation and strength. QCBN N N N N

Anita Farrelly, RN, BSN, MBA/HCM and Jessica Dickinson, RN, BSN, are the owners of Aboost Wellness IV Vitamins and Hydration. Jessica Dickinson, RN, BSN and Anita Farrelly, RN, BSN, MBA/HCM are the owners of Aboost Wellness.

Quad Cities Business News // AUGUST 2022

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Understanding the Benefits of Mindfulness Meditation

By Deanna Eder

ccording to thousands of years of tradition, Buddhists meditate to understand themselves and their connections to all beings. By doing so, they hope to be released from suffering and ultimately gain enlightenment. In recent decades, researchers have been gaining insight into the benefits of practicing this ancient tradition. By studying different versions of mindfulness meditation, they’ve found that learning to pay attention to our current experiences and accept them without judgment might indeed help us to be happier. Studies to date suggest that mindfulness affects many aspects of our psychological well-being - improving our mood, increasing positive emotions and decreasing our anxiety, emotional reactivity and job or school burnout.

WHAT IS MINDFULNESS?

Mindfulness means maintaining a moment-by-moment awareness of our thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations and surrounding environment, through a gentle, nurturing lens. Mindfulness also involves acceptance, meaning that we pay attention to our thoughts and feelings without judg-

ing them. When we practice mindfulness, our thoughts tune into what we’re sensing in the present moment rather than rehashing the past or imagining the future.

WHY PRACTICE IT?

Studies have shown that practicing mindfulness, even for just a few weeks, can bring a variety of physical, psychological and social benefits. Here are some of these benefits, which extend across many different settings. N Mindfulness is good for our bodies - Practicing mindfulness meditation boosts our immune system’s ability to fight off illness. Practicing mindfulness may also improve sleep quality. N Mindfulness is good for our minds - Mindfulness increases positive emotions while reducing negative emotions and stress. N Mindfulness changes our brains Research has found that it increases density of gray matter in brain regions linked to learning, memory, emotion regulation and empathy. N Mindfulness helps us focus - Mindfulness helps us tune out distractions and improves our memory, attention skills and decision-making. N Mindfulness fosters compassion

and altruism - Mindfulness training makes us more likely to help someone in need and increases our understanding of the suffering of others. Evidence suggests it might boost self-compassion as well. Mindfulness enhances relationships - Mindfulness training makes couples more satisfied with their relationship, makes each partner feel more optimistic and relaxed, and makes them feel more accepting of and closer to one another. Mindfulness affects the way we see ourselves - More mindful people have a stronger sense of self and seem to act more in line with their values. They may also have a healthier body image and more self-esteem. Mindfulness makes us more resilient - Mindfulness training could help people who suffer from PTSD and child abuse. It is also proven to help caregivers. Mindfulness is good for parents and parents-to-be - Studies suggest it may reduce pregnancy-related anxiety, stress and depression in

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expectant parents. N Mindfulness may be beneficial to teens - Practicing mindfulness can help teens reduce stress and depression, and increase their self-compassion and happiness. N Mindfulness helps schools - Teaching mindfulness in the classroom reduces behavior problems, aggression and depression among students, and improves their happiness levels, self-regulation and ability to pay attention. N Mindfulness helps health care professionals cope with stress, connect with their patients and improve their general quality of life. N Mindfulness helps in

prisons - Mindfulness reduces anger, hostility and mood disturbances among prisoners by increasing their awareness of their thoughts and emotions, helping with their rehabilitation and reintegration. N Mindfulness helps veterans - Mindfulness can reduce the symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). N Mindfulness fights obesity - Practicing “mindful eating” encourages healthier eating habits, helps people lose weight and helps them savor the food they do eat. QCBN Polara Health Senior Peer Program teaches a free Mindful Meditation Group once a week for adults ages 60 and over. If you would like more information, please call Senior Peer Program Manager Melanie Jacobson at 928-445-5211 ext. 2035. Deanna Eder is the director of marketing and communications at Polara Health. For more information, visit polarahealth.com.

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AUGUST 2022 // Quad Cities Business News

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Elevating Summer Cuisine with Fresh Herbs

By Debbie Maranville

love combining fresh, seasonal ingredients to create amazing dishes. Fresh herbs can transform the most basic cooking into something elevated and full of fresh summer flavors. During the next couple months, herbs are in abundance at the Prescott Farmer’s Market, local grocery stores and even back yard and kitchen gardens. Cilantro, basil, parsley, dill, arugula and mint are my favorites and are included in many of the recipes that are created at Goods from the Garden, Catering & Events. Squeeze in the juice of fresh lemons or limes along with extra virgin olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper and you have yourself an amazing fresh and tender salad or side dish. These ingredients are also amazing with fresh sweet corn salads. Imagine after a long day, you examine your carefully chosen assortment of ingredients and create a dish

that will be rewarding and delicious. I encourage you to look inside your refrigerator or freezer for your protein of choice. Pasta, summer vegetables and herbs tossed together make a great healthy dish. If you are looking for a simple summer recipe, might I interest you in a Summer Watermelon Basil Gazpacho. It’s quick, easy and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. It can also be served in a bowl or as a “shooter” upon your guests’ arrival. There is nothing more refreshing than this gazpacho. It is very savory and great if you are counting carbs for a healthy choice. QCBN

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

Watermelon Basil Gazpacho N 1-5# Seedless watermelon. Fruit only – discard the rind. N 1 medium tomato (I prefer an heirloom tomato or ½-cup heirloom cherry tomatoes) N 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil N 2 fresh limes - juice of a lime and garnish N ¼ cup fresh mint N ¾ cup fresh basil N ½ teaspoon of salt N ¼ teaspoon fresh black pepper

DIRECTIONS:

Combine the watermelon, tomato and olive oil in a food processor or blender. Zest one of the limes and squeeze out the juice. Place into the food processor with the watermelon puree until smooth. Pour the mixture into a large bowl and add your herbs, salt and pepper to taste. Place in the refrigerator for 3-4 hours. When ready to serve, pour into small glass bowls or shot glasses. Cut the remaining limes into wedges and use to garnish along with a few sprigs of herbs. QCBN

Connecting Employers with Job Seekers

“

By Teri Drew

Help Wanted” signs are in the windows and on marquees of businesses all over Yavapai County. It seems nearly everyone feels the challenges of attracting and maintaining the staffing required to operate and provide the desired and necessary services to our community, whether you are the business owner or the consumer. According to the Emsi Quarter 2 Data Set (economicmodeling.com), Yavapai County’s population increased by 19,335 in the last five years and is projected to

grow by 16,131 through the next five years. Jobs grew by 4,966 in the last five years (+6.7%), and are projected to grow by 10,983 through the next five years. This outpaces the national jobs growth rate of 0.7% by 6.0%. However, as the number of jobs increased, the labor force participation rate decreased from 51.3% to 50.4%, resulting in competition between employers for labor. The temptation to assume that the workforce has grown complacent with workers staying at home or receiving government subsidies can skew the facts. In December 2021, the

// Resources are available to make the connections between employers and job seekers. Since 1976, Yavapai County has participated in federal funding opportunities such as the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act (CETA) of 1973, Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) of 1982, the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) of 1998, to today’s Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) of 2014. //

Yavapai County labor force consisted of a population of 105,633, of which 103,109 were employed and only 2,524 county-wide were unemployed. According to the Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity Labor Market Report, the May 2022 unemployment rate in Yavapai County was a low 2.7%, down by 2.1% from the same time last year – we are 0.9% better than the U.S. unemployment rate. The highest demographic for unemployment (2020 population data) is among youth aged 16 to 19 (16.8%), followed by ages 25-34 years (9.5%) and 20-24 years (7.8%). The data indicates that outreach and training to populations aged 1634 years is in high demand. However, compared to our population statistics, this county continues to demand an innovative approach to establishing a strong, resilient workforce to meet current and forecasted growth. The top three in-demand occupations are in Commercial Driver License (CDL) (3,701 job openings annually/$45.4K annually), Aircraft Mechanics/Service Technicians (537 job openings annually/$62.2K annually), and Licensed Practical/Licensed Vocational Nurses (691 job openings annually/$54K annually). Besides

these careers, occupations in health care, sales, administrative support, transportation/delivery, hospitality, management and more are continually being offered in large numbers. Yavapai County is growing! Economic development and workforce development practitioners, as well as our partners at the colleges and universities, work consistently to attract, train and retain a sustainable talent pipeline. Resources are available to make the connections between employers and job seekers. Since 1976, Yavapai County has participated in federal funding opportunities such as the Comprehensive Employment and Training Act (CETA) of 1973, Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) of 1982, the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) of 1998, to today’s Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) of 2014. WIOA opportunities in Yavapai County are overseen by the privately-led Workforce Development Board. Some of the services offered through WDB YAVAPAI@WORK include: N Robust national outreach and recruitment,

training and placement services N Skill/Interest Assessments N High School Diploma/High School Equivalency (HSE) Certification (also known as GED) N Tuition/Books/Exam Financial Assistance for occupational training N Job Development/Career Placement N Paid On-the-Job Training and Work Experience N Support Services to assist with obtaining/maintaining employment or education We are calling on all employers and job seekers to reach out to the YAVAPAI@WORK team at 928-7781422 for more information. Yavapai County WDB has all of the ingredients for continued economic success. We promote innovation and continuous improvement to the greater community and work consistently with every city and town in our great county to assist and support our local businesses. QCBN Teri Drew is the executive director of the Yavapai County Workforce Development Board.

Quad Cities Business News // AUGUST 2022

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How Proper Debt Management Will Make You Wealthy

By Steven Calabrese

everal debt management strategies can be implemented that will put you on the path to accumulating wealth. I would like to take a look at several types of debt and begin to dissect them. Finally, I will make a recommendation as to one possible way to attack your debt. How Much Debt Do Folks Have? While the total outstanding debt on a national basis is a record $15.84 trillion, including mortgages, here is a list of the average amounts of outstanding debt by age group, excluding mortgage balances: N Gen Z (18-23) $9,593 N Millennials (24-39) $78,396 N Gen X (40-55) $135,841 N Baby Boomers (56-74) $96,984 N Silent Generation (75 and over) $40,925

LEADING TYPES OF DEBT

What types of debt do folks owe? Here is a list, with the average outstanding balance for the big three. N Credit card debt $6,569 N Student loans $37,172 N Auto Loans $26,162 Then, there is a family loan, personal loan, 401K (retirement) loan, HELOC (home equity line of credit), mortgage and payday loan. If you believe loans are good because we are using other people’s money, I would say that’s wrong, because there is no good debt. All debt is bad. Take a

look at your bank’s headquarters building and know that you paid for it. About 25% of the population has no debt outside of mortgage debt. About 53% say that eliminating debt is a priority.

WHY SO MUCH DEBT?

We live in a time when we all want everything now. Why wait? If you can have that new car, you get it. The average car payment is $648 for a new car and $503 for a used car, according to Experian. These payments range anywhere from three to seven years. When folks look at the car, they do not ask if they can afford the car, but ask if they can afford the payment. That’s not the right thinking. Having a student loan, which is an epidemic across the country, is not even considered a loan by many who have this outstanding debt. The average loan payment is $393, according to the Federal Reserve. Many have not considered alternative ways to pay for a degree. They also do not ask the question, “Am I going to get a return for my investment?” Credit card debt is a national favorite, with the average monthly minimum payment of $110 for a balance of about $5,525, taking a whopping six years to clear the balance. Many folks have resorted to supplementing their income by using their credit card for purchasing gas and food. Then, of course, there is impulse buying. Please keep it up, because it’s good for my Amazon stock.

HOW MUCH OF THIS SOUNDS LIKE if not, maybe you need to create additional income. Can you eliminate some YOU? Auto payment $600, student loan payment $390 and credit card payment $110. Add that up and it comes to $1,100. What could you do with an additional $1,100 per month? How about investing as one possible alternative? How Much are Payments Costing You? If you clean up your act and get these debts paid off, you could then invest the $1,100. If we assume you invest monthly $1,100 for the next seven years at a modest 7% return it will grow to about $118,000 before taxes. Now, think about that! You can pay the banks for that new car, pay your student loans for an eternity, keep that buying up on credit cards and make bankers rich. Or, you can eliminate your debt and put yourself on a journey to accumulate wealth.

ELIMINATE DEBT

All of this sounds great, but it’s easier said than done. Yes, very true: Good things in life do not come easy. You must work at it. Here is a very simple formula to achieve this goal. Create a budget. Put every dollar you earn into a category and give it a home. Live on less than you make. Take a hard look at your budget. Do you have everything? Does it include debt payments? Does your income exceed your total expenses? If so, great!

expenses? Are they all necessary? Now, list out your debt, the amount you owe and monthly payments. Put your items in order from the smallest to largest amounts based on the balance owed.

CREATE A PLAN

Now, freeze all debt. Do not add one single penny. The bad habits must be stopped. This is a critical step. With the list of debts in hand, begin to pay them off. Begin with the smallest debt first, working your way through each debt until all are paid off. With your budget done, you know what your needs are to pay all your bills. Now ask yourself what you need to do to begin to double or perhaps triple pay the lowest debt. The key is to get this first debt paid off as quickly as you can. Cut the budget to bare bones. Maybe get a second job or sell some of those impulse things you bought. Make sure you are keeping up with the minimum payments for all the other debt. Once you have the first one paid off, then roll the payment from the first debt to the second debt, getting that paid off as quickly as you can. Continue to roll payments until you have gotten through each debt. Before you know it, all your debt will have gone away. I think you get the idea.

NOW WHAT?

Getting your debt paid off is a major step in beginning to build your wealth. Now, begin to invest those payments that you do not have to make that make the banks rich. Make yourself rich instead! Apply some discipline to create some short-term pain for the long-term benefit. Want to become a millionaire? This is the key. Go for it.

CONCLUSION

Debt management is debt elimination. Stay aware from debt consolidation because it does not get your debt paid, it just moves it. And yes, getting your mortgage paid off is also a goal. The sooner you can be 100% debt-free, the quicker you can build wealth. So, get started. Next month, we will discuss in more detail how to create an exact plan and a couple of alternative ways to become debt-free. This was high level, but you should be able to begin putting things in place. Good luck! You work hard for your money. Make sure it stays your money! Thanks for reading; I hope you found this helpful. QCBN Steven Calabrese, CPA, is the CFO of Polara Health. He also is the owner/ operator of a website known as thebiweeklyadvisor.com, where topics such as budgeting, investing, paying off debt and goal setting are discussed.

CORNELIUS continued from page 13

Cornelius says the bike shop is also starting to work with the schools and recently began a relationship with Verde Valley Wheel Fun, a non-profit organization whose goal is to put Verde Valley kids on bikes. Michael Woodruff has been in the bike business for 26 years and recently started to work at Camp Verde Bicycle. “I was employed at a busy shop in Sedona and the work was stressful and wasn’t any fun anymore. Plus, I lived in Camp Verde and was getting tired of the commute,” said Woodruff. “James and I started having conversations and after a while, it seemed like a natural fit for me to join his team. We have similar ideas about the bike industry and we both agree that bikes can be expensive and outlandishly priced so we want to help and encourage folks to ride more on affordable bikes.” Woodruff is encouraged by the community’s interest in developing more trails. “Camp Verde has some incredible plans and I can see that this is going to be a popular place for cyclists to come and ride.” Though Cornelius was never a professional cyclist, he did start his two-wheel adventure when he was 4

years old. “I rode BMX exhibition for a while, doing little shows for schools and missionary stints on the Navajo Reservation.” He is also a trail runner. Racking up miles on his bike, Cornelius does two group rides a week, one on the road and one off-road. “Fridays I coordinate a group road ride and on Saturday, a group mountain bike ride. I’m working on getting the shop staffed so we can support more rides and get more people cycling.” “I ride with older and younger riders. My priority is to help people enjoy the sport so we meet them at whatever level they are at,” said Cornelius. Camp Verde Bicycle, located at 735 South Main, is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesdays through Saturdays. For more information, call 928-567-6734.

LAST TIME I THANKED MY YOUNGER SELF

It was something I did a while ago that led to moving to Camp Verde. I’d say the big deal was working at relocating my family before they knew they wanted to move.

ADVICE FOR NEW BUSINESS OWNERS

The most important thing in Camp Verde to remember is it’s about the people; you are always working with your neighbors, so treat everyone that way.

TOPPING MY BUCKET LIST

I’m doing it. This was my bucket list: family man, local shop. If I succeed at this, I am content with what I’ve accomplished in life. I have no shortage of ambition for things beyond what I’m doing now but I try to stay focused on what’s in front of me.

WHAT I DO FOR FUN

Running, cycling, landscaping, I love working in the meander land, in our yard by the river. I like making my land into a nice place to share, like a park for everybody who comes over and of course for my children. We swim in the river all the time.

FAVORITE MOVIE

Groundhog Day does a great job of presenting that even if you accomplish things going exactly to plan and have all of the means to do it, relationships are still the most valuable thing in life. QCBN

Riding bikes since he was 4, James Cornelius says he is living his dream. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

AUGUST 2022 // Quad Cities Business News

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Adding a Window into Problems and Solutions with a Life Coach

elcome to “At Home With Tom and Sandy.” This month, in light of everything going on from COVID-19 to unemployment, to everyday stress, to controlled expenses and the cost of living, Tom and I thought we would take a pause and have a lunchbreak, or a “breakfunch,” for those of us who eat small meals between breakfast and lunch and do not take an actual lunch break, and veer away from our normal column. Settle in, this is going to be wonderful! Sandy: Hi Tom! It’s August! For our detour topic this month, I have invited Deborah Peterson to join us. Deborah is a life coach, ordained counselor/clergy member, and has a business called “Coaching Clarity by Definition.” Tom: I like taking a break from the usual, however I can’t promise I won’t weave some reference to remodeling in here. Hello, Deborah and welcome to At Home. Deborah: Hello, Sandy and Tom. It’s great to be a part of your column and thanks for asking me to participate. Sandy: Deborah, you do all these fascinating things, so let’s start by you telling us and our readers what a life coach is! Deborah: In a condensed version, I help people develop strategies that allow them to focus on making

positive internal shifts in thinking and behaving that changes who we are and what we do. Tom: That actually sounds like a tall order and not easy to do. Deborah: It is pleasantly demanding, of course, and so many people today are really hurting, feeling stuck and exhausted with the status quo template of life. With what is happening in our world now, many are anxious and scared. Sandy: Deborah, it sounds as if even though many people tend to be motivated and possess an entrepreneurial spirit, are you saying there isn’t one of us who couldn’t benefit from some help from time to time, especially now with all of this anxiousness and fear taking place? Tom: What a great question, Sandy. It’s akin to us asking questions to a client to see if we are a fit to help with their remodeling goals. Sandy: Tom, I knew you would find a way to sneak in remodeling! Deborah: LOL! And actually Sandy/Tom, you’re right on. I help people remodel (there, I snuck in your word, Tom) their thinking and hence their responses/behaviors; after all, we are what we believe or internally calculate. Sandy: To me, that sounds a lot like helping people figure out new ways of dealing with the stress, pressure, strain and anxiety of dealing with life.

// Yes. It’s more about defining and clarifying the root cause of the symptomatic feelings of selfloss and emotional clutter. Emotional clutter will manifest in various ways with each individual. The way we internalize and perceive our past clutter must be exposed; however, the one constant is that all alike suffer an inner exhaustion, an energy drain that causes people to feel angry, intolerant and frustrated, unable to conduct themselves in a constructive manner in personal and extended relationships. //

Deborah: Exactly, Sandy, and teaching individuals that when we allow bitterness and anger from past, unresolved issues to eat away at us, it spills out into our everyday life. So, I focus and strategize on removing these self-sabotaging resentments and unresolved issues. Tom: Do you mean we are often our own worst enemy? Deborah: Absolutely, Tom! The self-principle that gets neglected is being aware of the negative internal dialogue we believe more than any other words or actions of other well-meaning or harmful people. Tom: Boy, oh boy, isn’t that the truth. Sandy: Can you share with us some of the steps you take to sort out the behaviors that are getting in the way? Deborah: Yes. It’s more about defining and clarifying the root cause of the symptomatic feelings of self-loss and emotional clutter. Emotional clutter will manifest in various ways with each individual. The way we internalize and perceive our past clutter must be exposed; however, the one constant is that all alike suffer an inner exhaustion, an energy drain that causes people to feel angry, intolerant and frustrated, unable to conduct themselves in a constructive manner in personal and extended relationships. Sandy: Deborah, once you determine what some of the clutter is, what can you help people to get rid of it? Deborah: I educate them on coming up with better ways of thinking and hence, the way they will respond to trouble and problems, and to slow down. Tom: Interesting that you seem to make a distinction between trouble and problems. What do you see as the difference between the two? Deborah: Simply put: Trouble stems from an inward hostility or varying degrees of resentment that I spoke of earlier; problems are the external symptoms and often the result of a negative cyclical lifestyle nourished by unresolved trouble. To further answer Sandy’s question about how I can help, together with the

client, I reveal the root to their trouble. We gain insight into their deeply held values and beliefs that most often are limiting in nourishing and providing positive behaviors. By identifying them, we can begin to teach how to replace bad habits with good or positive habits of thinking and responding. Sandy: That sounds so fascinating. And, Deborah, you are also ordained and use the title “Reverend.” How does that play into your process? Deborah: Spirituality plays a large role in how we formulate our responses to trouble and problems. I work within the client’s theology as this is a very powerful means to help unlock new perspectives. Tom: Once those new perspectives are recognized, what happens next? Deborah: To use your remodeling metaphor, together we begin the design and construction of principle-based thinking so the clients’ outcomes better fit their values. I also show my clients how to be self-actualizing individuals, which really helps initiate some intrinsic motivation to move forward. Sandy: What an exciting process. And, Tom, now you have Deborah using remodeling metaphors. You are incorrigible. Deborah, what a delight to have you join us. You have helped our readers and me better understand the positive role a life coach can make in ourselves and our lives. Deborah: It’s an honor to be a part of yours’ and Tom’s column. I love the opportunity to relate all the positive things we can accomplish in our lives to as many people as I can. Thanks for the invite and fun! Sandy: Tom, here is my takeaway. Life coaching is an asset to get the job done and you, as a contractor, life-coach your clients. It is a form of communication that builds client awareness and trust. A life coach helps people make conscious choices. Tom: Sandy, you are right. Deborah is indeed a valuable resource, talent and blessing to people. She helps others increase their clarity and move forward in their lives. Sandy: How do you know if life coaching works and if someone is

ready for the process? Deborah: I offer a free 30-minute consultation to determine the person’s readiness in making this significant life transition. Sandy: OK, Tom, back to construction and life coaching. It sounds to me like Deborah works with a door. A door closes off a room. A door provides a barrier. We can’t see through a door, but Deborah can help by adding a window. A door can lock us out, a door can let us in, a door protects us, keep us safe and even more exciting, Deborah can provide access to a beautiful space where anything is possible by opening the door. Tom: This was indeed fun - taking a detour from our normal column. Deborah, thanks so much for offering your insight and value to the foundation of problems, the tools available and knowledge that doors can be opened. Thanks for stopping in and reading “At Home with Tom and Sandy.” You’re in good company and we love sharing educational, fun and important information with you. QCBN Tom Reilly, Architect, 928-925-5692 Sandy Griffis, Executive Director, Yavapai County Contractors Association. 928-7780040. Deborah Peterson, Coaching Clarity By Definition coachingclarity15@gmail.com 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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Privacy Trees That Screen Fast

By Ken Lain

ow is the time to plant privacy screens for maximum growth and seclusion in spring. Without strategically placed evergreens in the yard, it can feel as if prying eyes are looking right into your home. Not only does your privacy seemingly disappear, but that neighbor’s debris pile can be on display! Enable enjoyable hot tub sessions without prying eyes from that too-close-for-comfort neighbor. The solution to these unwanted invasions is not rocket science. Simply plant a wall of living trees and shrubs to block an undesirable view and create the privacy you desire! Here is an excellent example of an “evergreen and gold” hedge of Golden Euonymous. Now is the ideal planting season for fast-growing trees and shrubs to maximum autumn roots critical for a lush wall next spring. To successfully add evergreens to a landscape, several essential steps are worthy of your time and energy. The most crucial requirement for trees to thrive is drainage. Blend one shovel full of Watters Premium Mulch into every three shovels full of native earth to pack around each root. Feed new plants with 7-4-4 All Purpose Plant Food right

after planting. The cottonseed meal in this natural food promotes robust root formation while maintaining good foliage color. Finally, deep soak each plant with a solution of Root & Grow. This specially designed compost tea encourages new roots that grow deep and strong.

BEST EVERGREEN TREES USED AS SCREENS AND ACCENTS

When you’re ready to choose the trees for your living wall of green, read through these popular choices of local screening plants that fill in fast.

ARIZONA CYPRESS

My favorite native evergreen screener is the Arizona cypress. It is like a giant alligator juniper in size and color but grows faster and fills in more thoroughly than other screening plants. Growing to more than 20 feet tall and 12 feet wide in just a few years, you can see why this is the number one choice for a planted screen.

COLORADO SPRUCE

Very cold-hardy, this spruce is the perfectly symmetrical Christmas tree shape. Excellent choice for a front yard holiday tree or as a semi-formal accent in a large yard. It makes a pretty evergreen background against

contrasting foliage colors, flowering shrubs or highlighting autumn leaves. Line up several for a windbreak or to quickly diffuse lights and sounds along busy streets.

DEODAR CEDAR

This is the largest screening plant, growing to more than 50 feet tall and 20 feet wide. It is one of the fastestgrowing of the screens, growing two to three feet every year. This cedar thrives on low water use, drought conditions, and drip irrigation, as is the case with most upright evergreens. Make sure to give it plenty of growing space because, with its long, swooping branches of Arizona Blue foliage, this tree is going to need it! Juniper Let’s look at the juniper family. Spartan, Blue Point and Wichita are on the extensive list of junipers available at Watters Garden Center now. Juniper forests surround us, so be assured junipers are naturals to add to a landscape. Whichever color and height you like, all grow well in this part of the world.

AUSTRIAN PINE

This handsome evergreen tree has a densely branched conical form when young that becomes umbrella-shaped

with age. The needles are long and dark green and the tree tolerates poor soils and harsh, drying winds. It’s a great conifer for windbreaks or used as large landscape specimens. There are many more choices, such as the larger evergreen shrubs and deciduous trees like aspens. We’ll discuss those varieties another time.

BOOK JUST PUBLISHED “The Secret Garden: Plants

as a Natural Screen” is an all-local garden book with deeper detail about screening plants. Free

copies are available for download at WattersGardenCenter.com under the tab LEARN. Until the next issue, I’ll be helping local gardeners plant privacy here at Watters Garden Center. QCBN Ken Lain can be found throughout the week at Watters Garden Center, 1815 Iron Springs Road in Prescott, or contacted through his website at WattersGardenCenter.com or Top10EvergreenTrees.com.

The Housing Market: Is it a Buyer’s or Seller’s Market Now?

By Nick Malouff

he housing market statistics in our area for the year-over-year period from the end of June 2021 to the end of June 2022 are very interesting and not what many might expect given the changes in interest rates and other economic turmoil. As one would expect, the number of total listings has increased from 605 at the end of June 2021 to 923 at the end of June 2022, an increase of 52.6%. This is truly an eye-opening statistic given the tight market through the last several years. Another interesting statistic is that sold listings for June of 2022 came in at 363, compared to 472 for June 2021, a decrease of 23.1%. However, on a year-to-date basis of 2022 over 2021, we find that total closed sales year to date were 2,155 for June of 2022 and 2,245 for YTD June 2021, a decrease of only 4%. While much of the sales listing volume data might indicate a buyer’s market, we are seeing some not so expected results on the pricing and sales of homes. Despite the overall slight slowdown of sales, we find that the median list price has increased

19.78% year over year through June, from $455,000 to $545,000! The median sales price has also increased by 15.54%, from $390,000 to $451,000. The average days on market has increased from 22 for June 2021 to 25 for June 2022. Although the number of listings has increased, homes are still selling at a pace that is only slightly slower than in 2021. How do we make sense of these interesting and unexpected numbers? Is this a buyer’s or seller’s market? I would say the answer is both. For buyers, the increase in inventory is good news providing greater selection and a less competitive environment. Although interest rates have gone up, they are still historically low, so this could be a great time to buy, given that rates are likely to go up even more. It has been stated many times that this housing market is not like 2008 where prices collapsed dramatically. This time around, we are still struggling to find enough inventory for all buyers but it is improving because of higher interest rates. Sellers are finding that this is also a good time to sell, and many of those who were waiting for the opportunity to sell at the right time may have de-

cided it is time to act. Therefore, we are seeing an increase in the number of listings year over year. So, it appears from the data that this market is becoming much more balanced, and it may very well be both a buyer’s and a seller’s market! I am sure there will be more unexpected market statistics in the future as the worry about inflation and a possible recession have an impact

on the behavior of both buyers and sellers. The bottom line for the current market is that waiting for the bottom to fall out on home prices could be a losing strategy for buyers. And, waiting to sell your home to gain even more appreciation could result in a missed opportunity to take advantage of

a fairly robust buyer environment while interest rates are still reasonable and prices are holding up. QCBN Nick Malouff is the CEO and co-owner of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate BloomTree Realty with offices in Prescott, Prescott Valley, Cottonwood and Sedona. To reach Nick or a highly qualified agent, please call 928-925-2023.

AUGUST 2022 // Quad Cities Business News

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You’re Invited! Honoring Prescott Area Women Leaders 3RD ANNUAL PRESCOTT AREA ATHENA AWARDS

Join us for: Prescott Area ATHENA High Tea, an afternoon of Inspiration, Celebration and Networking September 18, 2022, 3-5pm Starting Point (Prescott Gateway Mall) Keynote Speaker: Colleen Biggs

The ATHENA program celebrates women who achieve excellence in their profession, provide service to their community and help others, particularly women, become the best they can be. Nominations are being accepted now through August 8 at PRESCOTTATHENA.com/nominations Tickets are $65 per person/$500 for a table of eight

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Arizona Philharmonic Presents Dancing from Tonga to Vienna

By Henry Flurry

rizona Philharmonic (AZPhil. org) welcomes back Maestro Peter Bay at 3 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 21, at the Yavapai College Performing Arts Center (YCPAC) to usher in the beginning of the 5th season of bringing outstanding professional music to Prescott. Season openers are always fun for both Arizona Philharmonic musicians and audiences alike. We are seeing old and new friends after a summer break, and the excitement of new opportunity and continued growth is palpable. Featuring a full orchestra and international Steinway Artist Thomas Pandolfi, the concert opens with Argento’s Royal Invitation, a tonguein-cheek ballet score on the famous

appearance of a Tongan queen at the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. Thomas Pandolfi then performs a brilliant piano concerto by a 21-yearold Mendelssohn, Piano Concerto No. 1. The concert closes with Beethoven’s joyful Symphony No. 7, a work that Richard Wagner famously called the “apotheosis of the dance.” Tickets and more details about this and the rest of the concert season are available at AZPhil.org. “When the Queen of Tonga was invited to attend the coronation of Elizabeth II, it not only made a spectacular headline in the newspapers, but it inspired American composer Domenick Argento to write a musical ‘report’ filled with fox-trots, marches, polonaises and lots of humor,” said Peter Bay. “From those dances to a

// “Mendelssohn’s First Piano Concerto is full of pianistic fireworks, scintillating virtuosity, yet also pure and tender beauty - it is a concerto of complete and ecstatic joy,” said Pandolfi. //

Thomas Pandolfi

work described as the apotheosis of the dance, Arizona Philharmonic gives its first performance of Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony on this program. Brilliant keyboard artist Thomas Pandolfi is featured in the virtuoso First Piano Concerto of Felix Mendelssohn. This is a program to uplift your spirits and get your ‘inner dance’ on!” The musicians love working with Maestro Peter Bay. The Argento is both humorous and charming, and I am really excited about the Mendelssohn

Piano Concerto No. 1. Mendelssohn is a master of melody and phrase construction; and featured soloist Thomas Pandolfi is a terrific, heartfelt and daring pianist. “Mendelssohn’s First Piano Concerto is full of pianistic fireworks, scintillating virtuosity, yet also pure and tender beauty - it is a concerto of complete and ecstatic joy,” said Pandolfi. “I am so excited to bring it all to life and make magic with Maestro Bay and the musicians of Arizona Philharmonic.” Thomas Pandolfi is an international artist selling out some of the world’s most prestigious stages, including Lincoln Center Alice Tully Hall, Strathmore, The Kennedy Center, Kiev Opera House, Bucharest’s Romanian Athenaeum and London’s Cadogan Hall. Arizona Philharmonic (AZ Phil) is celebrating its fifth season in Prescott in 2022-2023 as Prescott’s regional professional orchestra, presenting large and small concerts that engage and inspire listeners. Based in Prescott, AZ Phil draws musicians from across state and is committed to offering transformative music, while nurturing community participation and supporting the needs

and growth of the Prescott area performing arts scene. Recognized in 2021 by the Prescott Chamber of Commerce for Excellence in Arts and Culture, Arizona Philharmonic is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Ticket information, sponsorship and volunteer opportunities can be found at AZPhil. org or on Facebook. QCBN Henry Flurry is the executive director of Arizona Philharmonic. He can be reached at henry@azphil.org or 855-321-6724. Arizona Philharmonic (AZ Phil) is celebrating its fifth season in Prescott in 2022-2023 as Prescott’s regional professional orchestra, presenting large and small concerts that engage and inspire listeners. Based in Prescott, AZ Phil draws musicians from across Arizona and is committed to offering transformative music, while nurturing community participation and supporting the needs and growth of the Prescott area performing arts scene. Recognized in 2021 by the Prescott Chamber of Commerce for Excellence in Arts and Culture, Arizona Philharmonic is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Ticket information, sponsorship and volunteer opportunities can be found at AZPhil.org or on Facebook.

Airport Expansion Moving Forward

By Ray Newton, QCBN

ollowing approvals by the Prescott City Council and two public meetings on site at the Prescott Regional Airport (PRC), plans are rapidly moving forward on the much-anticipated expansion. Attracting particular attention is the extension of the primary runway by 3,381 feet. The completed runway and taxiways will be approximately 11,000 feet in length. Estimated cost for that expansion is $64.3 million. The Federal Aviation Authority Airport Improvement Program (FAA AIP) will pay 95% of that amount. The balance will be split between the Arizona Department of Transportation, $1.6 million, and the City of Prescott, $1.6 million. Airport representatives sponsored open houses at PRC in late spring. More than 50 people met with city officials and airport consultants to view renderings and hear descriptions of future projects. Comments were collected and became part of later planning discussions, according to PRC Operations Supervisor Jason Kadah. Several large posters mounted in the airport terminal interior described next steps to be taken. Present to explain them were Dibble Corp

Aviation Planning Manager Charles McDermott and Coffman Associates Airport Consultants representative Judi Krauss. The Phoenix-based firms work with local, state and federal organizations in highly technical airport and aviation planning. An important next step will be a review of the airport complex and surrounding area. “It will include a thorough environmental impact study and a benefit-to-cost analysis for land acquisition, design, construction and instrumentation relocation,” said McDermott. Results from the lengthened runways studies, which began this summer, are expected to help support commercial air service needs and safety requirements and at the same time provide information about increased flight training altitude over sensitive areas. Such studies are required by the federal government under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Longer runways reportedly will benefit emergency and firefighting tanker operations and aircraft. Airport manager Robin Sobotta explained that longer runways also give commercial airlines the benefit of adjusting arrival and departure times. “That is especially important and practical for more flights and destina-

tions and for new carriers wanting to fly into PRC,” Sobotta said. She pointed out other benefits once expansion is completed, including the availability of more passenger seats, favorable departure and arrival times, more non-stop destinations, and an improved margin of safety on takeoffs and landings. The review process, already underway, can take one to two years, Sobotta said. “I have absolute belief that expansion of airport facilities is critical to the economic culture of our Quad Cities communities,” said Prescott Mayor Phill Goode to those present. The critical shortage of commerDetails about proposals to support airport expansion were shared with local cial airline pilots is prompting Embresidents during open houses at the Prescott Regional Airport. ry-Riddle Aeronautical University to launch what is being called a SAFE complex - Strategic Academic Flight PILOTS continued from page 1 Plans for the SAFE complex are Education. It is planned for the north complete, and will involve about side of the airport grounds. He acknowledges the time and 500,000 square feet, 25,000 of which Already approved by the Prescott cost to train pilots. “It’s a multiCity Council, SAFE will allow ERAU will be an educational structure and year process to start school, and hangars for aircraft. ERAU officials to accommodate as many of 1,050 then you need the aircraft.” anticipate SAFE will be fully funcstudents by 2023-2024; and up to Leighnor added that the airline 1,200 pilot trainees by 2026. Current- tioning by 2026. QCBN business needs more airplane mely, about 900 students are enrolled. chanics, as well. Training programs Data just released this week by the take about two years. He says some government indicates that 14,000 companies are paying airplane new pilots are needed annually to mechanics about $30 an hour to meet commercial airline demands start right out of school. QCBN during the next 10 years.

AUGUST 2022 // Quad Cities Business News

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Joy of Giving Luncheon to Honor County Philanthropic Groups

By Ray Newton, QCBN

he Joy of Giving luncheon to honor people and organizations in Yavapai County that have been exceptional in their philanthropic efforts has been scheduled for 11 a.m.., Friday, Aug. 19, at the Prescott Resort. When announcing the event, Lisa Sahady, regional philanthropic advisor for the Arizona Community Foundation of Yavapai County (ACFYC), said it has been two years since the ACF has been able to schedule the luncheon because of the restrictions caused by the pandemic. Five organizations were cited this year as “Shining Stars,” Sahady said. She emphasized these five had been selected from among dozens in the county because of the direct and positive impact they have had upon people’s lives in the communities they served. “Peoples’ lives have been changed because of what these special organizations have done,” she said. Organizations named are:

FIREFIGHTER ANGEL FOUNDATION (FAF), PRESCOTT VALLEY

This non-profit foundation is directed by Cody and Tammy Rose, the executive director and project manager. Its purpose is to offer positive impacts for

children and families in crisis or severe need. The group provides holiday deliveries to families that have fallen on hard times or are facing a difficult loss. FAF also collects and distributes food boxes and other items during the holiday season.

NATURAL HISTORY INSTITUTE (NIH), PRESCOTT

Administered by Bob Ellis and a four-person staff, NIH combines traditional tools with modern technology and proactive strategies to pursue research questions and the study of sciences, humanities and arts, especially those that represent the biodiversity of the Mogollon Highlands eco-region. Members emphasize a connecting with the natural world.

OLD TOWN MISSION (OTM), COTTONWOOD

This faith-based organization provides valuable support to Verde Valley residents who have serious personal or family needs. It is praised by the ACF for providing food, clothing, transportation and other resources to those in need for years. It also operates a thrift store and sponsors events to generate funds to cover its expenses and help the community.

PRESCOTT FARMERS MARKET

(PFM), PRESCOTT

Active in the area for 25 years, the Prescott Farmers Market involves more than 30 local vendors who share their products at summer and winter open markets. This non-profit supports local farmers and ranchers in Yavapai County and creates access to affordable locally grown food. PFM also supports collaborative efforts such as Carrots for Kids, Prescott Seed Library and Chef in Action. The ACF views the PFM as a “local incubator” that helps stimulate a healthy community.

UNITED ANIMAL FRIENDS (UAF), PRESCOTT

This volunteer-based non-profit organization provides rescue programs and services to pets. Governed by an eight-member board, UAF assists with rescuing, spaying and neutering, and finding foster homes for animals. UAF helps hundreds of people and pets through supporting Community Pet Food Bank and emergency medical programs throughout the county. The ACF recently issued grants totaling $582,841 to diverse organizations, a 16% increase above last year because of a new donor. “We are so fortunate that Yavapai County supports our competitive grant cycle so generously each year,” said Sahady. “We think it is because individuals trust in

Lisa Sahady of the Arizona Community Foundation of Yavapai County (ACFYC) invites community members to secure their tickets for the upcoming Joy of Giving luncheon. Photo by Ray Newton

our review process that we are able to help non-profits through the county in their service to our communities.” She also applauded volunteers who serve on review committees to screen grant applications each spring. “These dozens of people, who must remain anonymous, volunteer an unimaginable amount of personal time scrutinizing the multi-page grant applications. For nearly three months,

these panels examine funding requests ranging from $1,000 up to $20,000. I can’t praise them enough for their time and critical thinking.” Tickets for the Joy of Giving program are available at the ACF office, 300 E. Willis, Suite B, in Prescott. For more information, call 928-583-7815. QCBN

Horse Trading

ith all the spirit of Arizona ranch life on the open range, cowboys and horses took center stage at the Babbitt Ranches Annual Hashknife Colt Sale on the second Saturday of July, north of Flagstaff. “The horses were looking really good,” said Ed Babbitt, who served as a bid spotter at the time-honored event. “You can sure tell who the horse people are.” And there were plenty there. Record-breaking bidding reached $15,500 for a stunning blue roan colt. A crowd-please palomino sold for $9,500 and a Utah rancher and car dealer finished the day with four successful bids. “I thank the Babbitt family for letting us keep up this tradition,” said Ranch Manager Clay Rodgers. QCBN Photos by Bonnie Stevens

Quad Cities Business News // AUGUST 2022

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TOURISM continued from page 1

visitors overnighted in Arizona. Heiney noted that tourism numbers already are up in Yavapai County and in Prescott this year. He told Quad Cities Business News that a major factor in bringing more visitors to Prescott was the service provided by the expanded operation of Prescott Regional Airport, where deplanement and enplanements have increased from last year. Data indicates that Prescott, Sedona, Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon benefitted from 2021 tourism spending of $1.2 billion in Yavapai County and $1.6 billion in Coconino County. In Yavapai County alone, tourism spending was up more than 25% from pre-pandemic levels, according to AOT studies. Heiney emphasized the city’s tourism department is funded through bed tax revenue. Those dollars are generated from a tax on hotel rooms and short-term rental units. Bed taxes for the current year are up substantially from last year. City officials estimate that taxes could amount to as much as $1.4 million to $1.5 million during the current fiscal year. “All this has intense impact on the economic vitality of the community. We’ve got to note, too, that we need a larger workforce to fill vacant jobs,” said Heiney. The Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) is required to use

75% of the bed tax monies to attract more visitors and to improve and upgrade recreation and tourism-related efforts, he said. Already, funds have been directed to events and activities such as the World’s Oldest Rodeo, the annual Courthouse Lighting, and support for several museums. Bed taxes also support 29 local non-profit events. Another $350,000 goes for city services such as recreation projects, open-space management, maintenance of the downtown parking garage and improvement of local lakes such as Watson, Willow and Goldwater lakes. Future activities for the Tourism Department include updating the website and increasing social media posts, creating new brochures and videos, and improving open space management and recreation projects. The city is collaborating with the Yavapai County Economic Resource Alliance (YCERA) and the Yavapai College Regional Economic Development Center in the creation of materials. Heiney said the department is considering hiring a sales and marketing consultant whose responsibility would include generating more tourism-based travel to Prescott. The refreshed website is expected to launch by January. QCBN Community Outreach Manager John Heiney is putting the word out that a trip to the Prescott area deserves more time. Photo by Ray Newton

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HYATT continued from page 6

amazing experience. You feel like you are completely outside of this world.” Visitors also want to go to Horseshoe Bend or kayak, boat, stand-up paddle and explore the area’s many national parks and scenic byways. “Lake Powell is a family destination,” said Santacruz. “For some, it’s a tradition to visit every year, stay on the lake in houseboats or stay in our hotel and go back and forth to the lake and other destinations.” After a big day of discovery, Hyatt Place guests can enjoy a dip in the heated outdoor pool, relax on the open-air patio with boundless high desert views or return to spacious, suite-style rooms with separate places to sleep and work. The vibe is both relaxed and sophisticated. Despite the number of people wanting to explore, there are no big hotels in Page. That’s one of the reasons why Hyatt Place is so popular. Another reason is the atmosphere – stylishly trendy, insanely clean and authentically Southwestern. Santacruz’s influence is undeniable. Santacruz grew up in Sonora, Mexico, making meals with her mother and grandmother using local spices and fresh produce. She folds those cherished memories, signature flavors and treasured family recipes into the menu of the hotel’s Prickly Pear Kitchen. “We are Southwestern influ-

enced and inspired. The soup is from scratch, the tortillas and tacos are from scratch, the sauces and dressings are from scratch. Nothing is better than home-cooked food. It is also the healthier way to go. We use unique ingredients and take special care. For example, we roast the jalapenos and tomatillos to give them that sharp flavor you are not going to find anywhere else.” That passion for getting it right wafts into every part of the hotel. Santacruz was hired to help open Hyatt Place in 2018. She came from the nearby resort of Amangiri, where

she served as the food and beverage manager and took care of guests like Kobe Bryant, Suzanne Somers, and Victoria and David Beckham and their family. She says she is living her dream. “I started when the walls were not built. I feel very emotionally attached to this property. We put in all the furniture and flooring and went from zero to opening the doors. It was a good experience.” A good experience is what she wishes for all guests and employees. “I am 100% proud of my team from housekeeping to the kitchen to the

Above left: Dramatic monsoon storms add color to summer skies. Above: Hyatt Place General Manager Nadia Santacruz says she is living her dream job. Below: Prickly Pear Margaritas are the property’s signature drink. Photos by Bonnie Stevens

front desk. They do a tremendous job. They have been here through the pandemic and are the backbone of the property. We could not be successful without their hard work.” QCBN

For information about Hyatt Place, reservations and seasonal packages, visit PageLakePowell.Place.Hyatt.com.

HEETSHIELD continued from page 10

Left: This NASA graphic depicts the concept of a Hypersonic Inflatable Aerodynamic Decelerator (HIAD). The HIAD would carry a delivery from space, surf through an atmosphere and land on the surface of a planet or moon where it could be retrieved. Miller’s HeetShield product is being tested to protect the HIAD and its cargo. Below: The HeetShield material is thinner than a matchbook cover. Courtesy photos

us install our quality management system so we can move our technology out of the lab and into production. We have to be able to produce materials very consistently and reliably, so that’s been a major milestone for us. It’s been just a wonderful collaboration even in this short time.” “Having HeetShield on campus benefits the Moonshot at NACET program and the City of Flagstaff,” said Executive Director Diana White. “The advancements Steve and his team are making will positively impact science, and protect and save lives. We are so proud to be a small part of HeetShield’s journey.” Miller has been in Flagstaff for 27 years. Since he was 10 years old, riding the train through Flagstaff on a school trip to the Grand Canyon, he knew he’d want to live there one day. “I love the mountains. I love being close to NAU. I feel a real sense of community here.” Miller is on schedule to test Heet-

Shield’s science technologies material aboard Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin in 2023. QCBN Meet Steve Miller and learn more about HeetShield on Zonie Living: Business, Adventure and Leadership. Go to https://starworldwidenetworks.com/episodes/ flagstaff-inventors-heetshield-may-soon-protect-space-deliveries-and-firefighters-video.

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WHERE PRESKITT

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EAST HWY 69 & HEATHER HEIGHTS PRESCOTT, AZ

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