October 2022

INSIDE THE OCTOBER 2022 ISSUE:

Power

Promotes

ERAU Supporting

Generation

Pure Wafer Expanding Microchip Wafer Production

By Ray Newton, QCBN

Spurred by the passage of the $280 billion bipartisan bill to boost domestic investment and expansion of high-tech manufactur ing and production, executives at Pure Wafer, a Prescott-based leader in silicon wafer, thin film deposition and wafer reclaim services, have an nounced plans for further expansion.

Ardy Sidhwa, Ph.D., Pure Wafer vice president of operations, in exclu sive comments to Quad Cities Busi ness News, said the company is mak ing a multimillion-dollar investment in finding better, more efficient and faster ways to keep up with increasing national and international demands. The 50,000-square-foot plant, located at 2575 Melville Road on the east side of Prescott Regional Airport, has

been producing wafers and reclaimed wafers for microchip industries since 1998. Yet, many local residents are unaware of the company’s operation, even with rapid expansion.

Sidhwa and Pure Wafer CEO S. Mark Borowicz are excited about the opportunities now opening because of the growing semiconductor renais sance in Arizona.

Sidhwa cited the CHIPS and Sci

ence Acts of 2022, signed on Aug. 9, which is expected to add manufactur ing jobs and allow American manu facturing, supply chains and research and development throughout the U.S. to add $50 billion in investments to American semiconductor manufac turing.

Further, the CHIPS Act legislation is expected to drive down chip costs

Tool Supplier Embraces

Craft

Community Profile: Meet Moon Buggy Engineer Bill Tinnin

Prescott Celebrates ATHENA Leadership and Teri Drew

Teri Drew Honored with Prestigious ATHENA Leadership Award

Prescott-area High Tea celebrates local women in the international program

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

Among a sea of fancy hats and fine china, more than 150 community members came out in style to celebrate women in leadership during the third annual Prescott-ar ea ATHENA Awards High Tea, hosted by Quad Cities Business News and Prescott Woman Magazine. With a standing ovation, the crowd honored Northern Arizona Council of Governments (NACOG) Regional Director Teri Drew as the 2022 Prescott-Area ATHENA.

In receiving the award, she recognized the support of her husband and high school sweet heart, Rick Drew, as well as her co-workers.

“The honor of being named the 2022 Athena Award winner has changed my perspective on my career, contributions and commitment to community,” she said. “The award has motivat

ed me to seek out the good in all women and nominate them for this life-changing recog nition. It has changed my life by being able to share more about me – my family, my career – with the community. I’ve received so many emails, calls and congratulations from the com munity. I’m grateful to share my story.”

The ATHENA Award is part of an interna tional program that began in 1987. Its mission is to support, honor and develop women leaders and inspire women to reach their full potential. It recognizes women who achieve excellence in their work, support their com munity and mentor others. Astronauts, judges and elite athletes are among the ATHENA circle of sisterhood. Famous ATHENA Award recipients include Billy Jean King, Condoleezza Rice and Marlo Thomas. At the Prescott event

Anita

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Navajo Power Selected for Apple Program to Help Develop Green Technologies

Equity, justice, climate change driving Apple initiative

By Betsey Bruner, QCBN

Apple, the company known for iPhones and Macs, has just introduced its 2022 Impact Accelerator (AIA) program that will provide instructional classes to 16 Black, Hispanic/Latinx and indigenous-owned busi nesses that are helping to speed the transition to a green economy.

The new class will include Navajo Power, a renewable energy company in Flagstaff, rep resented by Brett Isaac, a co-founder and the executive chairman of the company.

Navajo Power is a majority Native-owned public benefit corporation that develops utility-scale energy projects with a focus on providing cultural and economic empower ment to tribal nations.

Launched last year, the Impact Accelerator class has the goal of ensuring Apple’s strategic work and investments to protect the environ ment and expand access to opportunities for communities of color.

“We’re excited, because it’s a very competi tive process,” Isaac said. “Apple is very selective over the companies that they choose to support and, being indigenous, these opportunities are very rare instances. So, having the support of a global brand like Apple is really acknowledg ing the amount of work that our team has put into prepping our company going forward, and really is a statement to the quality and the intentions of the company to achieve its mission.”

The AIA program is a virtual program that provides its selected cohort members access to participate within Apple’s corporate network through a series of workshops and men tor-guided sessions, he explained.

Isaac said he will be leading Navajo Power’s

participation, along with Clara Pratt, the director of government relations, and Adelita Barrett, director of project finance.

“Apple really believes in providing this access of knowledge and information to key decision makers within the company,” Isaac added.

Participating businesses, hand-selected by Apple because they share the goal of creating a greener world, go through a three-month pro gram that provides training and mentorship as part of Apple’s Racial Equity and Justice Initia tive and to further its climate change goals.

Other members of the class include compa nies from across the country, including Cali fornia, Georgia, Hawaii and Texas, that work toward a variety of goals such as recycling in novation, carbon reduction, e-waste recycling, monitoring of water pollution, maximization of soil health and introduction of eco-friendly materials into construction.

“Following the program, the companies will be considered for business opportunities with Apple as it works to achieve carbon neutrality across its entire manufacturing supply chain by 2030,” according to an Aug. 25 Apple news room article. “Apple has been carbon neutral for its corporate operations since 2020.”

A mission-driven company, Navajo Power officials say they develop projects designed to build strong and credible relationships with communities, to unveil access to clean energy for First Nations.

“Really, our activities are focused on helping to regenerate communities affected by the transition in terms of like coal closures and the transition away from fossil fuels,” Isaac said.

“These communities themselves are some of the most vulnerable, even without the transi

Brett Isaac, Navajo Power co-founder and the executive chairman, develops energy projects focusing on cultural and economic empowerment to tribal nations. Courtesy photo

The Margaret T. Morris Center

Susan J. Rheem Adult Day Center

Leading a Life of Impact and Legacy

Author promotes developing ‘Holy Habits’ for living our best life

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

speaker Rabbi Daniel Cohen believes no encounter is random, but rather an opportunity to make an impact. In his book, “What Will They Say About You When You Are Gone? Creating a Life of Legacy,” he offers strategies to help us become more mindful in how we think and act, and become the best version of ourselves. Sprinkling in Jewish mysticism, he suggests developing what he calls “Holy Habits,” that put into play the “Momentum Factor.”

Rabbi Cohen says daily decisions lead to Holy Habits. “Life is not made up of major moral decisions, but it’s made up of small moments when I choose to be either a giver or a taker. Do I choose to be honest or maybe to cut a corner? The philosophy behind this is that we’ll never have the strength to make the choices that are the right choices in the bigger moments unless we recognize that we need to get in the habit of making good choices that reflect our values and principles all the time. And here’s where I talk about Holy Habits. Because when we’re in what I call, ‘the groove,’ we are attuned to really mak ing sure that we’re making choices based upon our value system. If somebody doesn’t have a value system, then every moral choice becomes up for negotiation.”

One way to develop habits that reflect our value system is to practice them. In his book, the rabbi suggests that rather than donating one sum of money to a charitable organization, get into the habit of giving every day. For example, if you choose to give $100 for the year, instead, give $1 a day for 100 days, developing what he calls, “the Momentum Factor.”

Acknowledging the challenges and chaos in the world, Rabbi Cohen says the uncertainty can create a sense of paralysis and anxiety. “One of the choices that we have is to just lament the situation in which we’re in. Jewish mysticism teaches us that our role is not to lament the darkness but to increase the light. If I meet someone or pass by someone and our faces meet, a possibility emerges for a soul connec tion and a moment of eternal impact. Even if I

cannot change the world, I can change the world of one person. That little bit of light that I create, that act of kindness, that smile will have an impact that will then transform potentially that person’s life and slowly one by one, the universe begins to change from that. So, to me, that’s a very empowering message.”

He also promotes meditation to connect with the wisdom of our higher selves. “Sometimes there’s so much noise, that we don’t have an opportunity to listen to our inner voice. Wheth er that’s walking, sitting in the park, saying a prayer, fly fishing, whatever it is, the important thing is to turn off the outside noise to listen to our inner voices. I’m a strong believer that leading a life of legacy is not about impos ing something from outside of us, but about unlocking what is inside of us that sometimes we fail to listen to. That’s where meditation is so important on a consistent basis, because it gives us the space and time and bandwidth to tap into the highest aspirations we have for ourself.”

To create a life of legacy, Rabbi Cohen recommends reverse engineering our lives by taking a look at the end product, deconstruct ing it and rebuilding it. “I’ll ask people to do an exercise: If we have five words that we want to be remembered by, what would they be; if we had 24 hours to live, what would we do and why? Identify what is that life you want to lead. Keep that front and center. One of the principles in the book is called, ‘Living Inspired.’ Living inspired means that we recognize that every day is a gift and that the real value of life is not in days passing but in moments and memories that we create. In many ways, that’s the way that we reverse-engineer our life. Too often, life goes by and we say, ‘Wait a second, where did the past year go?’ But if we can be fully present in each moment that we experience, create a memory of a lifetime, reach out and do acts of kindness. Those are ways that we cannot stop time, but we can slow down time to make the most of the gift of every day.”

Here are five ways Rabbi Cohen offers to live a life of impact and legacy: N Reflect. “Set aside time to reflect on the best

Rabbi Daniel Cohen and his wife, Diane, have raised six daughters. Courtesy photo

Embry-Riddle Gives First Generation College Students a Boost, Backed by $1.3 Million Federal Grant

Before Embry-Riddle Aeronauti cal University alumna Rebekah

Francis became the first member of her family to graduate from college in 2021, the prospect of higher educa tion seemed almost overwhelming.

She wondered what she would study, how she would afford tuition and where she would live.

Then, she was accepted into Upward Bound, an outreach program designed primarily to benefit low-income and first-generation college students. After that, everything changed.

“The most memorable part of Upward Bound was the five-week summer program where we got to stay on campus,” she said. “I met some of my best friends there – people I am still in touch with to this day.”

Essentially, Francis got to sample college life. Before the program, she was unsure of her career plan, but after spending time at Embry-Riddle, taking courses on topics such as uncrewed aircraft systems, global security and Russian – for each of which she earned college credit – she knew where she wanted to be.

“It was like having perfectly laid paving stones leading me right toward

my future,” she said. “I was going to Embry-Riddle.”

Francis was born and raised in Prescott. She got involved in Upward Bound as a junior at Tri-City College Prep High. She later graduated with a degree from Embry-Riddle in Global Security. Now, she lives and works in Chicago in supply chain planning for Northrop Grumman.

“Upward Bound helped me figure things out and get prepared for campus life,” she said. “Our program advisors taught us about budget building, filling out college applications, how to apply for scholarships and how to write admission essays.”

To continue the legacy of students like Francis, the U.S. Department of Education recently awarded Emb ry-Riddle a five-year, $1.3-million grant to continue its Upward Bound initiative.

“With our focus on hands-on expe riences, this program is a natural fit for career exploration and leadership op portunities,” said Dr. Anette Karlsson, chancellor of Embry-Riddle’s Prescott Campus, which hosts the program.

“We want to increase the graduation rates for students by helping them de

velop an academic mindset for college and the motivation to get there.”

Francis’s advice for those who might also be interested in this program: “Don’t wait!”

“What the Upward Bound can teach you is invaluable,” she said. “It can be daunting when no one else in your family has gone to college, but Upward Bound does a fantastic job of getting you ready.”

Embry-Riddle’s Prescott Campus has received the Upward Bound TRIO grant for the past three cycles. Lori Kennedy, director of campus events, said, “To receive it again speaks to the commitment and dedication of our leadership and staff to serve the low-in come and first-generation student population of Yavapai County and motivate them to succeed.”

“I am thrilled by this opportuni ty,” said newly hired Upward Bound Program Director Sheryl Gillum. “COVID-19 transformed so many of our industries. No one imagined the impact that an unprecedented global pandemic would have on our educa tion systems and businesses. Looking forward, it is important to find ways to partner with industries in need

Sheryl Gillum will help students explore educational pathways from learning to employment. Right: Rebekah Francis, a graduate of Upward Bound and EmbryRiddle, is now living her best life in Chicago, with her dog, Natasha. Courtesy photos

of a skilled and educated workforce to create pathways from learning to employment.”

Gillum also believes it is important to provide the guidance necessary to navigate our education system. “Up ward Bound can increase the compet itive potential our students bring to the table and help them emerge from

the pandemic successfully. It is a very exciting time to be alive. I am proud to be a part of this effort and I am excited to see what is to come.” QCBN

For more about the Upward Bound Program, visit https://prescott.erau.edu/ degrees/upward-bound.

WomanBusiness

QCBN of the Month

Amy Pieh Supplies the Tools Workers Need

Business owner carries on family tradition

By V. Ronnie Tierney, QCBN

Missing the collapse of the San Francisco Bay Bridge by sec onds during the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake is just a shadow of the blessings, hardships and successes of Pieh Tool Company President Amy Pieh’s remarkable life.

“I was on the top of the Bay Bridge and I didn’t feel anything, but the second I got off, the bridge was swinging,” she said.

Brought up in a maze of tools in Burlington, Wisconsin, Pieh’s parents, Bill and Bonnie, owned an internationally known tool company, Centaur Forge, that served black smiths and farriers all around the world since 1960. “When my dad died in 2000, it was such a loss to the industry.  People came from all over; it was amazing.” Amy lost her mother 18 months later.

Caring about others was the No. 1 priority for her parents, says Pieh, and through the business, they made a lot of friends. “Their goal was to provide a vast selection of products for the best value,” she said.

Joining the U.S. Air Force after high school, Pieh landed in the San Francisco Bay area. “I couldn’t fly due to a depth perception issue, so I became a metallurgical inspector.  In this assignment, I did non-destructive inspection, where I inspected every part of aircrafts, all the way down to the oil. After separating from the military, I continued as an inspec tor in aerospace and gravitated to inspection at power plants, nuclear and fossil fuel.”

For a short period, Pieh returned to Wisconsin to help her mother with the business. “I realized there was more to my returning home than just helping out. I was preparing to carry on a 40-year family [business] tradi tion.” Blacksmithing itself is a 61-year Pieh family tradition.

A visit to Sedona clarified her future. “I was coming into the Village of Oak Creek and just around the

first bend by Bell Rock, a vision of my mom and her wonderful smiling eyes came about and I could hear her voice saying, ‘Do it right here.’ So I got an [real estate] agent and found a building in Camp Verde.”

Seeking help from the Small Business Administration mentoring program, Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE), Pieh was able to move forward. “They were a great help developing my business plan and gave me direction to continue my parent’s legacy.”

On May 17, 2003, she says people came from near and far to attend her grand opening, a big event that she hosted five months into her preg nancy.

Down the line, hardship ensued and Pieh almost lost the business, but as a single mother, managed to pull through. “The towns of Camp Verde and Cottonwood embraced me and helped me and my son, William.”

Along with her main office in Camp Verde, Pieh has another retail location in Cave Creek and a third tool mail order business in Anthem.

“I met Amy in Wisconsin through my daughter, Sara, who was also in the Air Force,” said Pieh Tool Com pany Graphic Designer and close friend, Ann Jackson, who works at the Camp Verde shop.  “Amy is one of the most incredible women I’ve ever known and to do what she has done is incredible.  She continues to amaze me!”

A walk inside Pieh Tool Company in Camp Verde is a well-stocked and immaculate menagerie of black smithing and farrier tools, a full wall of horseshoes, anvils, swage blocks, abrasive tools kits, stands, forges, hammers, art supplies for blacksmiths, patinas and everything from aprons and books to beginner blacksmith kits.

There’s even a line of tools under the Pieh Legacy Collection, in cluding a series of blacksmithing tongs named Billy to honor her late father.  “I have my own line of hammers, too, and hoof knives called

Billy and Bonnie, also named after my parents.”

“I love working for Amy,” said new employee, Pieh Tool Company Accounting Manager Jackie Bon ney. “She is a brilliant woman and as a woman and single mother, she has done everything on her own. Sometimes I have to laugh because it’s such a whirlwind around here, but I have so much admiration for Amy and I can’t believe she’s done so much, especially going through

Top: Pieh Tool Company President Amy Pieh conducts blacksmith training classes. Bottom: Her Camp Verde shop includes a wall of horseshoes. Bottom left: Pieh with Graphic Designer Ann Jackson work inside the retail store in Camp Verde.

Photo

V. Ronnie

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NACOG Honors County Work Force Members

By Ray Newton, QCBN

Praised by Mary Mallory, chair of the Yavapai County Board of Supervisors (BOS), as “going above and beyond the ordinary bounds of leadership in serving the greater community,” several Yavapai County leaders were accorded high recognition during the 2022 annual luncheon meeting of “Arizona Work” in Yavapai County.

Almost 60 people from across the county gathered at the Prescott Lakes Golf Course Club House at 311 E. Smoke Tree.

Organized by the Northern Arizona of Council of Governments (NACOG), the program was opened by NACOG Regional Director Teri Drew. Honors were announced in several categories. Among them were:

LEADERSHIP AWARDS

Adult Care Services-West Yavapai County was represented by Cyn thia Fisher. The organization was recognized for offering meaningful programs to help individuals with memory loss, illnesses and disabilities who live at the Susan J. Rheem Adult Day Care Center and the Margaret T. Morris Adult Day Care Center. The

organization was praised because it provides employees with excellent opportunities to increase their wages and advance their careers.

Town of Camp Verde-East County was represented by Julie Kaiser and Crisi Clark. After several years of collaborating with NACOG, the Work Experience/On the Job Training program has become 100% successful in retaining employees.

The community received the reward because its clients had moved on to prosperous careers.

The Meadows of Northern Arizo na-West County was represented by John London.

Considered an outstanding partner with NACOG, the Meadows of Northern Arizona has consistently assisted its students with accurate and in-depth information about programs and how they best can succeed in their training program. The students who complete the program succeed and find stable employment in health care careers.

TITLE 1 ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

June Mann: Prior to working in the United States, Mann had been a nurse in Scotland and teacher in England.

Arriving in Arizona in 1990, she taught until the pandemic struck. She

then returned to the health care field, where she had more job opportuni ties and was able to assist people who are at the end of their lifecycle.

John Burien: Burien completed his CNA certification at the Meadows of Northern Arizona a year ago. He has been appointed from temporary Nursing Assistant to CNA and re

ceived his CNA title and a significant raise in December 2021. He continues working there and is moving upward.

Jaime Wiltgen: This Prescott resident began her employment at Adult Care Services as an assistant caregiver and then completed an on-the-job training contract. She also attended a training course where she

gained her caregiver certificate and was valedictorian of her graduating class. She has now risen to position of assistant team leader.

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AWARD

Rogers Academy of Beauty: This organization has partnered with

Among those honored by NACOG during a lunch meeting Aug. 11 at Prescott Lakes Club House were (l to r) John London, June Mann, John Burien, Sheri and Darren Rogers, Jaime Wiltgen, Mel Ingwaldson and Linda Bolyard. Not pictured are Patrick Ramirez, Julia Kaiser, Crisi Clark and Cynthia Fisher. Photo by Ray Newton

BY BONNIE STEVENS

Miracles are Misunderstood

Long ago I remember hearing that dreams are simply wishes if there’s no action behind them. But miracles are something else. “Miracles are the products of intention,” says motivational speaker Eric Thomas. They are within reach and they happen all the time. But we can’t just wish and hope and dream. We have to get serious with our intention and put real human effort behind them.

In his book, “You Owe You,” he says we can attract our own miracles and he talks about putting ourselves in miracle territory.

For example, If you want to work for a specific company, you start doing research, you get to know the organization and the background of the people there. What do they do and how did they land their jobs? You study the job openings and job requirements. You improve your miracle chances by acquiring the skills you need or earn ing the degree that qualifies you. Your miracle may require you to relocate to a different city, or join new organizations or make friends already in the industry. You want to put yourself on a collision course with your miracle.

And yes, sometimes miracles happen without doing the work. “People win lotteries all the time,” you might say. “Princes fall in love with commoners,” and “Relatives that no one’s ever heard of leave you money.” Sure, this can happen. Thank you, Aunt Nancy! But as

the Arizona Lottery reminds us, “You can’t win if you don’t play.” So, becoming qualified to be a player in the game of life requires work and it also puts us in miracle territory.

Thomas says, “There’s a ripple effect when you exercise your gifts,” he writes. “The ripples get bigger and bigger until they become waves. These waves and even the ripples are miracles.”

If you want to get in the way of miracles, here are some of his suggestions:

1. Put yourself in places where a miracle could happen, like where the people hang out that you want to work with.

2. Identify the opportunities you would like to receive and make a list of what it would take to get there.

3. Start building your path toward your next miracle. Visualize each step and even what it looks like and feels like, until you are in miracle range to seize the opportunity. QCBN

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

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For example, If you want to work for a specific company, you start doing research, you get to know the organization and the background of the people there. What do they do and how did they land their jobs? You study the job openings and job requirements. You improve your miracle chances by acquiring the skills you need or earning the degree that qualifies you.

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Moon Rover Continues to Gain Traction

Inventor Bill Tinnin has global fan base; GROVER to be featured at Star Party

While Neil Armstrong’s and Buzz Aldrin’s footsteps have been imprinted on the moon and in world history, the Moon Buggy they explored in left tracks on the lunar surface and also in the imag inations of the news media and fans. At 88, the Northern Arizona man who played a role in designing the buggy prototype continues to be tracked down by the news media and fans. GROVER, or Geology Rover, spends its days in retirement in the U.S. Geo logical Survey building in Flagstaff. Bill Tinnin, the inventor credited with inventing the moon buggy, is retired in Prescott Valley. The two have been connected since the 1960s Apollo moon missions.

Since the first moon landing on July 20, 1969, Tinnin has been contacted by people from 12 states and nine

one time, but every time.

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Astronaut trainer and geologist Lauren Edgar, standing in front of Grover, credits the early USGS work that advanced the space program.

photo

Bill Tinnin has collected photos and patches from the early Moon missions.

Best of Business: Honoring Excellence

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

In keeping with a significant and meaningful Quad Cities Business News tradition, businesses and business owners in the region are being recognized for excellence in the ninth annual QCBN Best of Business awards. Voting is open now through Dec. 15.

“This is an opportunity for all of us to acknowledge the accomplishments of businesses serving the region and qualities they exhibit like integrity, customer service, effectiveness, effi ciency, flexibility, responsibility and kindness that we all value when hiring companies and working together,” said QCBN Co-owner and Publisher Amy Bix.

Acknowledging that we all do business with a variety of hard-working, successful and highly regarded companies and individ uals in Prescott, Prescott Valley, Dewey/Humboldt and Chino Valley, Bix reminds residents and visitors that this is an opportunity to express gratitude for those who have treated their clients well, provided an important service and operated with the utmost professionalism.

Northern AZ Social, LLC, has been named a QCBN Best of Business award winner for six consecutive years. “We are grateful to assist growing businesses and to help them accomplish their goals through digital, social and traditional media,” said Northern AZ Social owner Donna Werk ing. “We have not only gained credibility with our clients through this wonderful recognition, but our partnership with QCBN has built stronger connections in our community.”

Best of Business categories include construction trades, home building suppliers, auto dealers, retail businesses, gun shops, hospitality, marketing, housekeeping, and real estate agents, among others.

Bix says Best of Business is the only awards platform of its kind in the region. Winners will be announced in the January 2023 QCBN issue. Voting is quick and convenient. Go to quadcities businessnews.com/bestofbusiness. QCBN

Donna Werking, owner of Northern AZ Social, has been recognized for Best of Business in social media and marketing for the past six years. Courtesy photo

Five Questions to Ask Before Your Next Mammogram

By Bridget O’Gara

One of the most important healthcare decisions a woman will make is where to undergo breast screening.

“Most women assume that all im aging facilities offer the same services and are pretty much interchange able,” said Breast Care Center Imag ing Operations Manager Kathi Hoffer at Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC). “In reality, there are significant differences between imaging centers.”

This October – National Breast Cancer Awareness Month – the Breast Care Center and Dignity Health Imaging Center in Prescott are teaming up to give the women of our community the information they need to select an imaging center. We’ll also clear up some of the con fusion about how frequently women should undergo screening mammog raphy.

DOES YOUR FACILITY HAVE ADVANCED BREAST IMAGING TECHNOLOGY?

The Breast Care Center and Dignity Health Imaging Center have exceptional technology dedicated to detecting breast cancer. This includes

state-of-the-art digital mammogra phy, a dedicated breast MRI system, three-dimensional breast imaging, the Hologic Supersonic Mach 30 breast ultrasound and more.

“Technology is constantly improv ing, so it’s also important for imaging centers to continually invest in prov en technology,” said Hoffer.

N If I need a follow-up imaging procedure after a screening mam mogram, is that available at your facility?

The imaging center where you un dergo your screening mammograms should be your breast health home.

“I encourage women to think longterm about their breast health,” Hof fer said. “This means finding a center that can manage all of the breast imaging needs you may encounter at different times.”

The Breast Care Center features a continuum of breast health services. The center provides breast screening, diagnostic procedures and, if needed, treatment planning and the guidance of a clinical navigator.

N Do your radiologic technologists – the professionals who conduct mammograms – specialize in breast

imaging?

At the Breast Care Center and Dig nity Health Imaging Center, screen ing mammograms are performed by breast imaging technologists. These are radiologic technologists specially trained in breast imaging.

“This really makes a difference in your mammogram,” explained Hoffer. “Our breast imaging technol ogists are experienced at positioning for optimal views, recognizing possi ble pathology and taking extra views when needed.”

ARE YOUR RADIOLOGISTS BOARD CERTIFIED?

Radiologists are the physicians who interpret your mammogram and other imaging studies. At both the Breast Care Center and Dignity Health Imaging Center, radiologists are certified by leading radiology accreditation organizations. They also have been trained at some of the nation’s top radiology programs.

“We have an amazing team of radiologists,” Hoffer said. “They are extremely skilled at interpreting breast screenings as well as perform ing breast-related diagnostic studies and procedures.”

ARE YOUR BREAST IMAGING MODALITIES ACCREDITED?

The American College of Radiolo gy (ACR) is the leading accreditation organization for imaging studies in the United States. ACR accreditation means an imaging center provides the highest level of image quality and safety requirements for equip ment, medical personnel and quality assurance.

Both the Breast Care Center and Dignity Health Imaging Center have earned ACR accreditation in mammography, breast MRI and stereotactic biopsy. The Breast Care Center was also recently designated a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the ACR.

A MAMMOGRAM SCREENING SCHEDULE

Since 1990, screening mammogra phy has helped reduce breast cancer mortality by nearly 40 percent in the United States. That’s an extremely positive track record. It’s why the Breast Care Center and Dig nity Health Imaging Center support these screening recommendations: N A baseline mammogram between the ages of 35 and 40.

N Yearly mammograms starting at age 40 and continuing as long as you are healthy.

“Our community is full of very vibrant women in their 70s, 80s and even their 90s,” Hoffer said. “That’s a major reason we do not recommend ending annual mammograms at a certain age.”

SCHEDULE YOUR MAMMOGRAM

Has it been more than a year since your last mammogram? Contact the Breast Care Center in Prescott Valley or Dignity Health Imaging Center in Prescott at 928-771-7577 to schedule your screening. It’s the best way to celebrate National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. QCBN

Bridget O’Gara is a writer, communica tions strategist and project manager who specializes in health care. Bridget has spent her career writing about healthcare topics. She works with mission-driven health care organizations, including hospitals, other healthcare providers and advocacy organizations.

Why We Volunteer

By Barry DeKemper

What drives a person to vol unteer? Does volunteering feed some sort of need? Is it a duty that springs from the values we share as a community? Do we volunteer out of a sense of respon sibility? Maybe volunteers are born of something that’s more elemental, something that is deep, humbling and inspiring. Consider the following:

Bob is a volunteer in his mid-80s who refuses to quit. He works in People Who Care’s office, answering calls and arranging services. He also volunteers with a local organization that collects and distributes food. He is responsible for gathering all the food donations from his network of donors, and he helps other volunteers sort the food that has been collect ed. This man has lived a long and productive life; he’s raised a family, contributed to the community, been a good citizen. He, as much as anyone, deserves to rest in his retirement years, but he chooses to continue giving. And by the way, his wife has dementia and requires a great deal of support. We would understand if he chose to stay home with her.

How do you describe the kind of volunteerism that brings a grown

man to tears? A colleague told me about an experience during Christmas 2020, the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. A local busi ness executive was helping People Who Care (PWC) deliver food boxes to homebound adults. When he arrived at one elderly woman’s home, she refused it, telling him, “Give it to someone who needs it.” He re sponded by telling her that there was enough for everybody and he volun teered to put the items away for her. When he opened up the cupboard, it was completely bare. She literally had nothing.

Finally, how do you describe the volunteer spirit that turns darkness into light? Sometimes we volunteer to fill the emptiness of a loss. One of our volunteers turned to it when his wife of 49 years died. When asked why, he replied that it made him feel like he was a member of the families he served. When he became too old to drive, he refused to take help from PWC, explaining that he wanted it to go to those who needed it more than he did. Even in his mid-90s, he visited residents in his community who were ill or those who just needed company.

So, why do people volun

teer? I’m not sure there’s a definitive answer. We certainly can’t ascribe it to a single thing; it’s complicated and very personal. Whatever drives us, however, seems to reward us in ways that are nearly indescribable. Maybe that’s the answer. Become a volun teer, and maybe you’ll find your own answer.

People Who Care needs volun teers to take its neighbors to the doctor and the grocery store and to provide several other nonmedical support services to help them live independently, safely and happily. And the hours are flexible – you can volunteer a couple hours a week or even just a couple of hours a month. Call 928-445-2480 today! QCBN

Bringing in the Harvest

By V. Ronnie Tierney, QCBN

The wine harvest is in full swing in Camp Verde as several friends came together at sunrise to pick Cabernet Franc grapes at Clear Creek Win ery. “This was the wettest monsoon we’ve had in a few years,” said Clear Creek Winery Owner Ignacio Mesa. “It delayed the ripening of our grapes by three weeks. The results of the Merlot and Malbec we just fermented look very promising. Vintage Year 2022 will likely be a good vintage year for us.”

Barry DeKemper, a retired high school En glish teacher, is the Development Director for People Who Care, a local nonprofit that provides free transportation services and nonmedical support to homebound adults in the Quad Cities.

To find out more or to Volun teer for People Who Care, visit www.peoplewhocareaz.com.

The team, which included Mesa and two of his employees, Vineyard Winery Operations Specialist Joe Birner and Assistant Winemaker George Peterkin, allotted a total of 1,000 pounds of grapes.

Sitka Alaska Commercial Salmon Fisherman John Murray was visiting friends in Camp Verde and joined the group. “I really liked the whole experi ence of harvesting grapes and meeting Ignacio and seeing his operation – and his land was really enjoyable. I had a lot of fun. If someone came to look at my fishing operation, they would feel the same way. It’s so cool to take in a small family farmer making a living.”

Also on the team was retired Camp Verde Wine Maker Kris Met zler. “Picking grapes with friends is as good as sharing a bottle of wine with them,” he said. QCBN Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

on Sunday, Sept. 18, Aboost was the lead sponsor. Founder and owner Anita Farrelly, RN, says she loved being in a room full of women who were pushing themselves to the next level to be role models and leaders for the community. “I’ve always been an advocate for leadership, growth and development and to participate in an event that champions these skills is powerful, enlightening and motivat ing. It’s what I want my daughters to know and learn.”

Farrelly added that for nurses, the assumption is that they will always work for someone else, a hospital or a corporation. “The Prescott-Area ATHENA Awards is such a good fit for Aboost because we’re teaching nurses how to be owners of their own businesses, to have an entrepreneur mindset and to develop marketing and sales skills so that they may use their nursing skills to care for the community in a different way.

Through her work with NACOG across more than four decades, Drew has helped numerous job seekers receive career-path training and find employment. She is credited for NACOG’s local, state and national recognition in innovation, leadership and services. She is nationally known for her economic and workforce development strategies and has been named Prescott Area Leadership Woman of the Year. As executive director for the Yavapai County Workforce Development Board, Drew was honored in Washington, D.C. recently for successfully nomi nating Grant Quezada and Founding Fathers Collective for the W.O. Law ton Business Leadership Award.

“I am blessed to say I have accom plished many successes in my career,” she said. “My greatest was my tenure of 45 years. I’ve learned so much and connected with so many people to make a significant difference for so many. I love it when someone says, ‘You helped me with school and now I am an RN,’ or ‘You placed me at the county, now I’m in management,’ or, ‘You taught me to be strong. Now I lead others.’ My greatest accom plishment is seeing others reach their potential.”

Drew says her parents and siblings were and continue to be her mentors. “They taught me what to and not to do growing up, and those strong ethics pay off.”

As a next achievement, Drew says she’d like to explore an elected position. “My hope for young women entering the workplace is for them to do what they love and love what they do.”

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“My greatest was my tenure of 45 years. I’ve learned so much and connected with so many people to make a significant difference for so many. I love it when someone says, ‘You helped me with school and now I am an RN,’ or ‘You placed me at the county, now I’m in management,’ or, ‘You taught me to be strong. Now I lead others.’ My greatest accomplishment is seeing others reach their potential.”

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Teri Drew embraced the ATHENA Award moment with her husband, Rick Drew. Photo by Kay Lyons

Prescott Woman Magazine Owner and Publisher Breeanya Hinkel greeted guests as they arrived at Starting Point in the Prescott Gateway Mall for the Prescott-area ATHENA Awards High Tea. Photo by Kay Lyons

QCBN Owner and Publisher Amy Bix, Editor Bonnie Stevens and Advertising Manager Ann Herrington say they were thrilled with the community support that has made the event possible.

Courtesy photo

Business Coach and ATHENA Keynote Speaker Colleen Biggs with QCBN Editor Bonnie Stevens spoke about empowerment and visibility for women. Photo by Kay Lyons

More than 150 people celebrated at the Prescott-area ATHENA Awards High Tea.

Courtesy photo

Area Real Estate Market is Mixed

By Nick Malouff

According to recently published statistics from the Prescott Area Association of Re altors, the area real estate market remained reasonably strong in August 2022 versus August 2021, but there are signs of weakness.

For the entire market area, the sold median price versus a year ago is up 7.4%, from $437,500 to $470,000. The median days on the market went up from 11 in August 2021 to 33 in August 2022. By most measures, that would still qualify as a seller’s market, but the trend does seem to be heading to a more balanced market. However, for the same period, total sales went down from 436 to 321, or 26.4%.

Prescott’s total sales went down from 193 in August 2021 to 145 in August 2022, a 24.9% decline, and the median sold price went down 9.3%, from $600,000 in August 2021 to $544,000 in August 2022.

Prescott Valley had similar results, with a re duction in total sales of 31.5%, down from 111 in August 2021 to 76 in 2022. However, the median price increased from $405,000 to $433,250 for the same period.

Chino Valley experienced what is probably the biggest drop across the board year over year. Total sales dropped from 62 in August 2021 to 30 in August 2022, a whopping 51.6% reduction. At the same time, the median

price went down from $388,000 to $365,000 for the same period, which is a reduction of 5.9%.

The Dewey- Humbolt area seems to have fared better during this same period, with total sales in creasing from 29 in August 2021 to 36 in August 2022, an increase of 24.1% countering the trend in the rest of the market area. The median price also increased from $415,000 to $446,250 for the same period, showing strength in price appreciation of 7.5%, which is market leading performance.

Although days on market for the entire market area has increased about 200% from 11 to 33 days in August 2022 over August 2021, this statistic would still be considered a seller’s market.

Is it still a good time to sell? I would say yes, because prices have held fairly well and days on market is still fairly low. Is it a good time to buy? I would say yes, because prices have abated some what and interest rates are still relatively low, but they could go much higher before the economic turmoil we are experiencing now is over. Also, the total inventory of homes is up about double for the market area compared to a year ago, which makes the possibility of finding the right home much higher.

QCBN

Nick Malouff is the CEO and co-owner of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate BloomTree Realty, with offices in Prescott, Prescott Valley, and Cottonwood. To reach Nick or a highly qualified agent, please call 928-925-2023.

Prescott Fire Wise Festival Puts Fun in Fire Safety

By Jon and Jamie Aten

As a community leader in fire prevention services, we’re proud to be a part of the first ever Fire Wise Festival in downtown Prescott. Local fire safety organizations and businesses are coming together in downtown Prescott to celebrate the 100th year of National Fire Prevention Week and the 78th birthday of Smokey Bear in a street festival outside Founding Fathers Collective at 281 N. Granite Street. The one-day event, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 15, will highlight local business es that can help residents prepare for future fire risks and keep our communities safe from fire. Local fire agencies attending the event include Prescott Fire Department, Yavapai Firewise/PAWUIC, Prescott National Forest, Arizona Public Safety, AZ Wildfires and Incident Management Academy, Peeples Valley Fire District, Prescott Firefighters Charities, Com munity Risk Reduction Prevention, All West Fire & Security, Sedona Fire, Yavapai County Office of Emergency Management and Yavapai County Jeep Posse, to name a few. Admission is free.

“Our area is surrounded by national forests. We all need to be diligent and prepare for fires that can happen any time of the year - not just during fire season,” said Jon Aten of All West Fire & Security, a sponsor of the event. “Ev eryone who attends the Fire Wise Festival will come away with information that can help prevent fires and save lives.”

A visit from Smokey Bear, hosted by the

Prescott National Forest, will be a highlight of the day. “It’s Smokey’s 78th birthday, and we’re honored he’ll be here in Prescott to help us celebrate,” said Jesse Burke of Founding Fathers Collective. “We’ll have birthday cake for Smokey and all the kids to enjoy, a bouncy house, and big red fire engines to check out. Adults can enjoy our Fire Engine Brew.”

In addition to fire safety tips from experts, the family-friendly event will have food, giveaways and music. The event is sponsored by Founding Fathers Collective, All West Fire & Security, Barrett Propane, Yavapai Fire Wise/PAWUIC, Yavapai County Contractors Association and Trafficade Service Companies. We hope to see you there!

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 contrac tors to ensure your new construction or remodeling project meets all safety code requirements. Trust the experts at All West Fire & Security for smart home automation, state-of-the-art fire sup pression systems, inspections, sprinklers, fire alarms, fire extinguishers, monitoring, intrusion alarms, security cameras, badge access systems, backflow certifications and more.

Are You Ready to Get Back to Work

Understanding the Audiogram

By Karon Lynn, Au.D.

An audiogram is a graph that re cords the way a person responds to specific sounds called pure tones. The audiologist measures hear ing threshold at the pure tone of each frequency. Hearing threshold is the intensity at which a pure tone is barely detected 50 percent of the time.

UNDERSTANDING FREQUENCY

Various frequencies or pitches are measured to determine how you hear at each area of the hearing organ. During a hearing test, the frequencies used in speech and in common everyday sounds are tested. When frequency is plotted on the graph, low pitches are

on the left side on the vertical lines progressing to the highest frequencies on the right side of the graph. An audiogram is similar to the design of a piano – low pitches to the left, higher pitches to the right.

UNDERSTANDING INTENSITY

Intensity is measured to determine how loud a frequency needs to be heard. A decibel (dB) is a measurement of sound loudness (sound power) and grows more rapidly than a linear measure ment. For example, 20 feet is 20 times longer than one foot but 20 decibels is 100 times more powerful than one decibel. When intensity is measured, it is plotted on the audiogram on a hor izontal line. The lower the mark (the

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Because hearing is different at each frequency, it is not simply a matter of making sound louder. Each frequency must be modified independent of the next, so that you can hear as comfortably and naturally as possible.

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larger the number) on the graph, the more sound power is needed to hear it.

THE TEST

Earphones or insert earphones are used to test hearing as it passes through the outer, middle and inner ear. Sound heard through an earphone is called the air conduction response giving you the degree of hearing loss. To determine the type of hearing loss you have, a bone conduction oscillator is placed on the mastoid bone behind your ear. The bone oscillator bypasses the outer ear and middle ear and gives a direct response of the hearing organ at each frequency. This is called the bone con duction response. The air conduction and bone conduction responses are plotted on the audiogram.

DEGREES OF HEARING LOSS

0 dB - 20 dB normal hearing

20 dB – 40 dB mild loss 40 dB – 50 dB moderate loss 55 dB – 70dB moderately severe 70 dB – 90 dB severe loss >90 dB profound loss

TYPES OF HEARING LOSS

N Sensorineural loss - the hearing organ is impaired.

N Conductive loss - the outer or mid

dle ear has impairment. The hearing organ is normal.

N Mixed loss - both conductive and sensorineural impairment.

CONDUCTIVE HEARING LOSS

Hearing loss that is the result of block age, damage, or disease to the outer and/or middle ear is called a conduc tive loss. The conductive mechanism consists of the outer ear, ear canal, ear drum, eustachian tube and middle ear bones. Conductive hearing loss means there is a difference between bone conduction responses of the hearing organ and air conduction responses. Typical causes of this type of loss are ear infection, otosclerosis, ruptured eardrum, and wax in the ear canal.

SENSORINEURAL HEARING LOSS

Hearing loss because of dysfunction in the hearing organ or in the hearing pathways in the brain is called senso rineural. This type of loss has the same response of intensity for air and bone conduction. Typical causes of this type of loss are noise exposure, side effects of medication, heredity and viruses.

MIXED HEARING LOSS

Hearing loss that has both conductive and sensorineural

causes is known as a mixed hearing loss. This type of loss has some dys function in the hearing organ and some dysfunction in the mechanical area of the hearing mechanism. Typical causes for this type of hearing loss are nerve damage, wax build up in the ear canal after you already have a hearing loss, otosclerosis, ear surgery, heredity and trauma.

As you can see, hearing loss is com plicated to understand and manage. Don’t trust your hearing and ability to interact with others simply to the low est bidder. Because hearing is different at each frequency, it is not simply a matter of making sound louder. Each frequency must be modified inde pendent of the next, so that you can hear as comfortably and naturally as possible. Find an audiologist who will give you time to discuss your needs and be willing to research the best possible solution for you. QCBN

Trinity Hearing Center is located at 1330 N. Rim Dr., Suite B in Flagstaff. For more infor mation, visit TrinityHearing.net.

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

Yavapai College is All In on Athletics

By Lisa B. Rhine

The fall 2022 semester at Yavapai College is in full swing, and with that comes athletic com petition.

At YC, we have made a commit ment to athletics by adding programs, support staff and resources.

I am proud that over the past two years, we have added women’s soccer and e-sports, and later this fall, our men’s and women’s basketball teams will tip off seasons for the first time since the programs were discontin ued in 2011.

With the addition of these four programs, Yavapai College now sponsors eight National Junior Col legiate Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division I teams (men’s soccer,

volleyball, softball, baseball), which is the highest level of competition in community college athletics.

Athletics is near and dear to my heart because I was a student-athlete.

I played and served as co-captain of my two-time state championship high school team in Kettering, Ohio. Upon graduation, I was afforded the opportunity to attend Eastern Michi gan University to play field hockey.

That opportunity existed because of a scholarship; without that finan cial assistance, I would not have been able to attend college. It provided the opportunity to further my education that, little did I know, would change my life trajectory, become my passion and help me realize my purpose.

Athletics gave me life lessons and skills that have allowed me to prog

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Community support is a crucial aspect of a thriving athletic program. I urge you to attend a game this year and join in on the Roughrider spirit, cheering on our teams that feature many statewide and local Yavapai County standouts.

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ress in my professional career and personal life. These include leader ship development, social responsibil ity, self-management, wellness and life skills. In leadership, I learned how to empower others and inspire action toward group goals. In athletics, you must be dedicated to advancing the group purpose and desired group outcomes, a skill I still use today in leading the college.

Our athletes at Yavapai College are some of the best in the country, and they recognize that they are students and athletes. They accept the rigorous responsibilities of both roles and collectively excel every year in competition and the classroom.

Many of them would not have had this opportunity to continue their athletic endeavors without Yavapai College, and most are going to be our future leaders, similar to where I was when I went to Eastern Michigan.

I am proud of our athletes and ful ly support all eight athletic programs. We strongly support our athletic programs as one of the best athletic departments at the Division I community college level.

Community support is a crucial aspect of a thriving athletic program.

I urge you to attend a game this year and join in on the Roughrider spirit, cheering on our teams that feature many statewide and local Yavapai County standouts.

You can keep up to date on all of the Roughrider athletic news, schedules and results daily at www. goroughriders.com. QCBN

Lisa B. Rhine, Ph.D., is the president of Yavapai College.

In February 2019, Dr. Lisa B. Rhine became the tenth president of Yavapai College, bringing to the institution over 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 ac tivities at six locations throughout Yavapai County, including cam puses in Prescott and Clarkdale and centers in Prescott Valley, Chino Valley, Sedona and the Prescott Airport.

$19.99

QC pet news

Horses with Heart has Calming Effect

By Stan Bindell, QCBN

Miracles happen at Horses with Heart.

One miracle that the workers at Horses with Heart talk about involves a 7-year-old boy who stopped talking after his mother died in a car accident. He wouldn’t speak a word. After one week, he was whispering to the horse to “move on.” After six weeks, he was talking to people.

Another miracle, according to the staff, happened to a military veteran with PTSD. He said the horse made him calmer than anything else.

Horses with Heart in Chino Valley is a therapeutic riding center that works with anyone from 4 years old to more than 80 years old, but they specialize in working with children with special needs and military veterans.

Jan Grise, riding director for Horses with Heart, said they don’t charge the veterans. “It’s our way of thanking them for their service.”

Horses with Heart has sever al other programs, ranging from competitions for the more advanced riders to their mini program, which brings mini ponies to nursing homes and schools.

Horses with Heart has 17 horses and only has room for one more. Grise says they would like to expand if they could get more land.

Horses with Heart has been going for 30 years, but has been on this property since 2010. It was created by a special needs teacher in Chino Valley, who moved to Dewey for a few years and then returned to Chino Valley.

The organization recently added a thrift store, Classy Pony Resale Boutique, with all the proceeds going to the non-profit. Horses with Heart brings in funding through grants, donations and fundraisers. The next fundraiser is Sequins and Saddles, Saturday, Nov. 12, at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

Horses with Heart, which charges for lessons, has five staff members,

some part- timer workers and 140 volunteers. The organization averages about 75 riders per week. Horses with Heart is a PATH International Premier Accredited Center.

Grise said the best part of working at Horses with Heart is the smiles and the growth they see in the rid ers. “Our volunteers and horses are the heart of the program. They make it all possible,” she said.

Trudy Chapman-Radley, one of the founders of Horses with Heart, said it has been great watching the program grow for the past 30 years. “It’s awesome watching the passion that people have for Horses with Heart,” she said.

Chapman-Radley said horses nat urally calm people because the horses have the same gate or movement as people. “The horses don’t judge anybody.”

Some of the children riders she has trained are adults now. Horses with Heart board member Will Towne’s daughter is one of those who is now grown. He said when his daughter was riding, she was more comfortable here than anyplace else.

Horses with Heart was in the spotlight at a Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce mixer Sept. 14, with more than 100 people attending the event. The Chino Valley Lioness Club donated $300 during the event.

Marcia Gagnon, an instructor with Horses with Heart, said horses help youngsters with cognitive needs, but she also has a program for those 55 and older. “Horses are wonderful for kids because it helps them with motivation for their brain,” she said, adding that the kids often cuddle with horses and the horses return the kindness.

QCBN

Top: Rocky the mini pony entertains riding instructors Mary Smith and Jan Griese. Bottom: A ribbon cutting ceremony marked the opening of the new Classy Pony Resale Boutique, which raises money for Horses with Heart.

Photos by Stan Bindell

Training Dogs and Their Humans

By Loree Walden

Every dog could benefit from some basic training. And every dog owner could benefit from some basic training. The Behavior Team at Yavapai Humane Society not only works with our dogs helping them with any behavior issues they may be having but, they also provide Behavior Training Classes to YHS (Yavapai Humane Society) Alumni dogs and the public (even if you did not adopt from us). This six-week course is an important tool for all dog owners as it teaches the owner how to train their dogs. Our Behavior Team

is actually training you, so you have the techniques to better the situation at home and for the whole life of your dog by continuing what you’ve learned while working with your dog on a daily basis.

Carly Carothers, Behavior Supervi sor, explains “We use the dog’s meals as rewards during training which trains the dog to value the owner as a resource. We focus on valuable les sons in basic obedience that will help dogs with impulse control, walking on a loose leash, and building a stron ger bond between owner and dog.”

Week one starts off with clicker training, loose leash walking, focus,

for a shelter dog is stressful and taking home a dog that has been with us for an extended period of time can be a challenge. YHS is now offering this six-week training course to adopters of our long-term dogs (over 90 days in the shelter) at no cost. This allows you to learn all of the things it will take to make your dogs transition back into a home, a successful one.

and recall. By using a clicker, it’s training the dog to know when they hear the click a treat will be involved which then makes it easier to train them in the behaviors/actions you want them to learn. You’ll also learn how to correctly communicate with your dog utilizing the transitional leash which is a K9 Lifeline product (a.k.a The Sidekick) offered through YHS. (And will be supplied to you through the training course). Another remarkable thing they do is training your dog to focus on you. This is done by having your dog sit in front of you while you put treats in both hands and hold your arms slightly out to the side and wait for your dog to give you direct eye contact. Clicker training is particularly important in this process and by following through with what the team shows you, you will have a very attentive dog. The other thing you will learn in week one is a come command, focusing on a structured recall.

Week two will have you learning sit, down, and place. Using the clicker, leash pressure and food you will learn how to teach these important commands. You will also learn how to be consistent in the process so your dog will retain what they learn. These commands can also help with behav

iors like high anxiety and low impulse control dogs when practiced regularly.

Week three revisits your first 2 weeks and goes over what you have learned so far by having you demon strate how you work with your dog in the home. The behavior team can offer insight on how to maximize your efforts through proper strategy and structure with your physical and vocal cues. Then you will start working on distance and duration for place commands and sit/down/ stay. Also adding a release command to help with these topics and let your dog understand when the given com mand is through.

Week four you will learn things like leave it/drop it to help with playing games like tug and fetch with your dog and to stop many unwanted behaviors in your home. These les sons help with training your dog not to go after things on walks as well as further your ability to communicate with your dog.

Week five is also a review week to have you demonstrate your communication effective ness. The behavior team will watch how your dog responds and how you respond with your dog, offering up any tips to help

with advancing any communication barriers

Week six is a final test of simply going for a walk. You will take ev erything you have learned and apply these techniques in a real-world set ting. A full understanding of how to apply these commands will give you better control in more public places and on walks with your dog as well as situations in the home.

Life for a shelter dog is stressful and taking home a dog that has been with us for an extended period of time can be a challenge. YHS is now offering this six-week training course to adopters of our long-term dogs (over 90 days in the shelter) at no cost. This allows you to learn all of the things it will take to make your dogs transition back into a home, a successful one.

This 6-week course will help all dog owners with some of the frustra tions that come with the basic train ing of your dog. If you are interested in learning more about the training program, please contact us at 928-445-2666 and ask for the Behavior Department.

QCBN

Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.

Understanding Leaky Gut Syndrome in Dogs

By Sandy Haffner

Your dog’s intestines are organs that play a huge role in the health of the entire body. They break down food so the body can absorb needed nutrients. At the same time, the waste waits inside the gut to be passed. The walls of the intestines ensure that water and nutrients are used by the body. The toxins and pathogens get stuck in the intestines until they’re released.

Inflammation creates gaps between the individual cells lining the walls, known as Leaky Gut Syndrome These gaps allow toxins and patho gens to leak and escape the intestines, getting into the blood stream. They cause inflammation in other parts of the body. The body will notice those undigested food particles as foreign invaders and start to attack them. This is how allergies and food sensitivities develop. Gelatin can help heal some of those gaps. Bone broth is loaded with a gooey substance that can plug up those leaky holes. This creates a healthier gut system, and when the system works the way it’s meant to, the health of your pup’s

whole body is improved.

Probiotics are the good bacte ria that live in our bodies, keeping our guts healthy. Inflammation kills these bacteria and leads to problems such as diarrhea and constipation.

Probiotics in general are becoming more well-known and used. They’re the best dog gut health supplement you can give. Goat’s milk is a natural probiotic and rich in a host of miner als and vitamins such as vitamins A and D, as well as nicotinic acid, one of the forms of vitamin B. Dogs need all of these as part of a complete and balanced diet. Goat’s milk is also a good source of linoleic acid. Linoleic acid is an Omega-6 fatty acid, which dogs use to build cell membranes. Research has suggested that supple menting dogs’ diets with additional sources of linoleic acid can improve the condition of their skin and make their coats shine. Studies have found that goat’s milk is effective in restoring malnourished animals to health quicker and increasing immune resistance against intestinal and respiratory infections.

Studies in the human world

have also linked gut health to prob lems like skin health. These bacteria are responsible for so much more than good poop. They keep the rest of our bodies healthy as well. And, it’s the same for dogs. Dog gut health af fects many other aspects of your dog’s body. It’s important for us humans to keep up with the latest studies so we can not only help ourselves but help our pets! QCBN

Equestrian Group Breaks Ground for Chino Valley Animal Shelter

By Ray Newton, QCBN

The Chino Valley Equestrian Association and LASER (Large Animal Shelter and Emergency Readiness) hosted a ribbon-cutting celebration for new facilities at 2208 Equestrian Way.

More than 200 invited guests attend ed the Aug. 16 event conducted by the Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce and co-sponsored by Findlay Buick GM and Safeway.

Fundraising activities, including a silent auction, raffles and gift sales, are supporting the facility. Festivities included a high-stepping parade of more than 25 equine breeds, including horses, donkeys, mules, ponies and miniature horses.

A spirited pinto horse was among those paraded during events at the LASER shelter ribbon-cutting Aug. 16.

LASER Secretary and Board Member Cathy Heath said she and her colleagues were constantly working to find ways to assist animals in need, especially during crisis periods.

“These LASER facilities will allow us to shelter horses, miniature horses, mules, donkeys, goats, sheep, chickens, pigs, rabbits, and even llamas and alpacas,” she said. “In fact, it wasn’t long ago that we provided protection for some animals that needed to be evacuated during the Crook Wildfire in the Prescott National Forest just 10 miles south of Prescott.” QCBN

For more information, visit laser-shelter.org.

Call us when it’s time to consider senior housing. Oasis Senior Advisors is a free and confidential service that navigates senior care options. We offer resources, knowledge and expertise to personalize your family’s needs and find the “right” fit. No matter where you are going, Oasis makes getting there easy.

Our services include, but are not limited to:

• An in-person consultation and assessment to determine, narrow down and tour available senior living options that are the “right” fit.

• Resource for trusted legal advice, senior movers, geriatric care managers, dementia specialists, physicians and more.

Call us today to see how we can help you.

Chris and Andi Remy, RN, CSA

O 928-278-3899

E Remy@YourOasisAdvisor.com

W OasisSeniorAdvisors.com/ northern-az

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

Why Spaying, Neutering is Right for Your Pet

By Armaiti May

Aspay, also known as an ovari ohysterectomy, is a surgical procedure involving removal of the reproductive organs, namely the ovaries and uterus, of a female mammal. The procedure is important to do to reduce the risk of mammary (breast) cancer, if performed before the second heat, prevent pregnancy, and eliminate the risk of pyo metra (a life-threatening infection of the uterus) – all of which I have seen occur in intact (unspayed) females in practice over the past 17 years. The mal adies that result from not spaying can be very costly to treat and unpleasant for the patient in volved. In female dogs who devel op mammary cancer, 50% of the time these

tumors are malignant. In intact female cats who develop mammary cancer, 90% of the cases are malig nant tumors. Pyometra can be fatal if not addressed promptly, as harmful toxins released by the bacteria in the uterus can enter the bloodstream and cause sepsis if the surgery is not performed quickly enough.

A neuter, or castration, is a sur gical procedure involving removal of the testicles of a male mammal. This surgery helps pre vent prostate enlargement and can reduce

problematic male behaviors such as humping in intact (unneutered) male dogs, urine spraying in intact male tomcats, as well as roaming and fight ing in both species. Neutered males are more content staying at home rather than roaming in search of a mate, which can often be a dangerous and even fatal undertaking if they are hit by a car in the process.

In addition to providing health benefits to the individual animal, sterilization surgeries help prevent overpopulation of dogs, cats and rab bits, which overwhelm our national shelter system. Currently, there are approximately three to four million healthy, adoptable dogs and cats who are killed in shelters nationwide because there are not enough homes for them all. By spaying and neutering and adopting from shelters, we can greatly reduce this number and allow

other animals to find the homes they deserve.

Shelters often have wonderful mixed breed dogs up for adoption, some of whom are healthier than dogs one might purchase from a breeder because of the fact that they are not as genetically inbred as pure bred dogs. Certain purebreds have predispositions for various health problems that can lead to expensive vet bills. For example, brachycephalic (“short face” in Latin) breeds such as bulldogs, Boston terriers and pugs that have been bred to have shorter noses are more susceptible to over heating because of their abnormally short airways and elongated soft pal ate and are also more likely to suffer complications from anesthesia. The healthiest dogs are dolichocephal ic, meaning they have long snouts, resembling a coyote. For larger breed dogs, waiting until the dog reaches maturity (which can take two years in some giant breeds such

as Bernese Mountain dogs) to do the sterilization surgery, is advisable to prevent bone growth abnormalities and consequent arthritis.

In summary, spaying or neutering your furry friend is the responsi ble thing to do and will make for a longer, overall healthier life for your pet.

QCBN

Armaiti May, DVM is an integrative house call veterinarian for dogs and cats practic ing 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.

Maternal Mortality Disrupts Business

By Gabrielle Goodrick, M.D.

Maternal mortality (pregnancy-related death of the mother within one year of pregnancy) in the U.S. is higher than other developed countries.1 Pregnancy is complicated, and taking away healthcare options from doctors and pregnant people will make maternal mortality rates increase. Abortion, the common term for medical procedures like Dilation and Curettage (D & C), is a healthcare procedure used to address pregnancy complications. In most cases it is not “used as birth control.”

Blocking access to health care through current legis lative proposals can destabilize businesses by impact ing employee scheduling and retention. Here are two scenarios showing how a non-viable pregnancy could disrupt business.

An employee learns their pregnancy is not viable. The fetus won’t survive outside the uterus, but the heart still beats. For the last 40 years, that pregnancy could be terminated, which could preserve the mother’s ability to become pregnant again. Carrying a non-viable pregnan cy not only puts at risk future pregnancies, it diminishes employee focus, mental health and physical capacity. Under proposed Arizona laws, a heartbeat will require carrying a non-viable fetus to term.

Imagine another employee has difficulty getting pregnant and previously lost a pregnancy. At 10 weeks,

your employee informs you that they are happily preg nant. At 16 weeks, there is no heartbeat but their body is not expelling the pregnancy. Without a D & C, the medical term for an abortion procedure, your employ ee could die of sepsis. Since the overturning of Roe v. Wade, doctors wait until your employee has a fever of 104° to ensure they are not charged with murder (of an unviable fetus). Waiting until a fever of 104° endangers the life of your employee. No business wants to see employees take unnecessary health risks.

Maternal Mortality increases when employee health care options are limited. Society’s economic interests benefit when individual rights are protected. When government inserts itself into individual health care choices, business suffers. QCBN

12017 NPR and ProPublica series “Lost Mothers: Maternal Mortality in the U.S.”

Gabrielle Goodrick, M.D., is the medical director and owner of Camelback Family Planning.

Jay Ruby jayruby3@gmail.com

Clean Slate for Democracy info@CleanSlateAZLD1.com

The comments and opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of the Quad Cities Business News.

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Aging Without Isolating: Living Your Best Life

By Yvonne Napolitano

The risk of isolation, unfortunately, increases as we age. The social interactions we once took for granted can become challenging due to situations such as becoming a caregiver, the death of a loved one, financial struggles, discrimination, physical issues and transportation.

Isolation and seniors can be a dangerous combination during the hol idays. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states nearly one-fourth of adults ages 65 and older are socially isolated and are at a greater risk for depression, anxiety and even suicide. An aging adult who feels lonely despite being active can also suffer depression, anxiety and even suicide.

SYMPTOMS OF ISOLATION INCLUDE:

N Cognitive decline with difficulty concentrating, remembering details or making decisions.

N Fatigue.

N Changes in sleeping patterns (in cluding insomnia and hypersomnia).

N Irritability or restlessness.

N Loss of interest in enjoyable activ ities.

N Major changes in appetite.

N Complaining of aches or pains

disproportionate to current physical condition.

N Misuse of alcohol, prescription med ication or other substances.

N Increase in chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, heart disease or diabetes.

N Talking excessively about death, thoughts of suicide or making sui cide attempts.

If you believe you or a loved one is suffering from isolation, the first step is to talk to a physician to find a longterm solution. In conjunction with physician support, consider any of the following:

N Connect weekly with family and friends via telephone, video, email or in person.

N Attend community activities at churches, clubs or weekly social gatherings.

N Join a gym or Silver Sneakers pro gram.

N Access alternative modes of trans portation by contacting family and friends or a senior care service for assistance with doctors and social appointments or shopping.

N Volunteer and feel good about helping others.

N Reach out for support with places such as AARP, NACOG- Area

No Sour Grapes

Agency on Aging, Meals on Wheels, People Who Care and Senior Cen ters that help connect people with necessary services.

N Attend an adult day center that can provide meals, activities, medi cal monitoring, care or possibly transportation and funding based on qualifying factors.

N Move to a senior living community that provides physical and social activities.

Per the CDC, seniors are at a higher risk for isolation. The signs and symptoms of isolation listed above can be clues to your or your loved one’s well-being. Researcher and author Tom Rath stated, “There is no greater predictor of human well-being than the amount of social time we spend with one another.” We know today that an active and balanced lifestyle promotes positive aging physically and emotionally.

Do you or your loved one lead an active and balanced lifestyle? Do you or your loved one suffer from isolation or perceived isolation? If so, reach out for help immediately, and remember, you are not alone. Live your best life! QCBN

Yvonne Napolitano, MHA, CTRS, is the executive director of Adult Care Services, The Susan J. Rheem Adult Day Center and The Margaret T. Morris Center.

By Ray Newton, QCBN

It was all sweet success at Watters Garden Center during the 16th annual Grapes 4 Grades benefit wine-tasting event hosted by the Prescott Frontier Rotary Club, Sunday, Sept. 25. With at least 400 people in attendance, more than $100,000 was raised in support of education. “One of the highlights of our fall is the Grapes 4 Grades event when people from throughout the Quad Cities contrib ute for the betterment of the greater community,” said co-owner Ken Lain with his wife Lisa. QCBN

Valuing Staff Wellness

By Anita Farrelly and Jessica Dickinson

My first year in management, I learned the power of a happy and produc tive staff. We are only as good as our “weakest link.” Thirty years later, after managing hundreds of individuals, operational projects, productivity, budgets, marketing and sales strategies, the No. 1 priority is who we are for the teams that work with us.

People want to be a part of something that matters, something that is greater than them selves and matches their values. When people trust a leader or organization, they place a higher value on their contributions. Simon Sinek teach es us that we can’t rationally convince someone to trust you. You must earn that trust by showing them you share their values and beliefs.

There has never been a more important time to demonstrate this leadership, especially in the post-pandemic world. People may have always valued their health and wellness, but in today’s world, they are educating themselves and for the first time, many have been personally affected by loss associated with the COVID-19 virus. As leaders of a team, small business or large corpo ration, caring for your staff’s physical well being is as essential as caring for your own family.

Staff members are your most valuable resource. Their energy levels and immune systems should be at the core of your company’s mission. When you embrace this as an integral part of your culture, it helps to attract and retain employees you can trust.

Providing staff with options to manage their time, stress and physical health is a great way to help them feel supported, productive, energetic and focused. Another option to improve staff well ness, prevent winter colds/flu bugs and promote a healthy workforce is through IV vitamins and hydration.

Fall

Maintains

Infusions can be provided while staff continue with their work or can be offered onsite as a mini wellness retreat. Imagine providing your team with an opportunity to improve their cellular health and manage internal inflammation caused by stress, lack of sleep, viruses and other chronic conditions.

Vitamins given via infusions, administered by an RN under the direction of a medical director, bypass the digestive system, getting directly into the blood stream and the cellular system. An IV vitamin infusion takes less than an hour and has antioxidants, such as Vitamin C, Zinc and Glutathione, plus energy and mood-boosting B vitamins. Adding the magical magnesium min eral is a natural way to destress, relaxing muscle tension and helping with vital sleep needs.

Seventy-five percent of Americans are chronically dehydrated. Under relatively mild levels of dehydration, individuals may suffer from fatigue, headaches, mood alterations and cognitive issues, such as difficulty concentrating and a decrease in perceptual, visuomotor and psychomotor skills. Dehydration can also be the source of sore and achy joints.

Refueling your and your staff’s bodies with natural energy is a great way to achieve a positive mood and happier work environment. Infusions may help staff avoid getting sick and losing valuable workdays and productivity, and may increase their mental focus and clarity.

Great leaders create strong company cultures. Supporting your team’s wellness and valuing their health inspires employees to love your vi sion, company solutions and to be a part of your bigger “why.” QCBN

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

By Ray Newton, QCBN

According to staff members at the James Family Prescott YMCA, the shift to fall for staging of the nationally famous Whiskey Row Marathon has proven to be popular a second time for a record number of runners registered for the race on the weekend of Oct. 7.

After a full day of registering, prepping and picking up necessary forms on Friday, Oct. 7, hun dreds of runners are expected to hit the streets beginning at 5 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 8, in what has been called “the toughest footrace in America.”

Subsequent marathons are scheduled at 6 a.m., with all races ending at Courthouse Square.

This year is only the second time in the 44-year history of the Whiskey Row Marathon that it was staged in the fall rather than spring of the year. Damon Olsen, director of the James Family YMCA, said that because the fall start date was so popular with the hundreds of runners from across the nation last year, the fall date was selected again. The fall race in 2021 also introduced a 5K run, which was well-received.

“Our altitude, at about a mile high, and the ever-changing terrain make this one of the most difficult races in the U.S. But runners and their families and friends keep coming back because people love the welcoming environment of Prescott, especially in the fall of the year. The competitors also have a great experience in meeting the sponsors and enjoying the friendly opportunities they encoun ter,” said Whiskey Row Marathon Race Director Jaime DeJoseph.

As in the past, Dignity Health YRMC was a presenting sponsor for the weekend event. QCBN

Volunteer Companions Needed for Isolated Seniors

By Deanna Eder

You might be surprised to learn that the U.S. Census Bureau’s July 2022 population estimate reports that 53% of Yavapai County’s population is concentrated in the Quad Cities area. Nearly 34% of our 122,370 Quad Cities neighbors are age 65 or older. That’s 41,606 seniors, 3,328 of whom live in poverty. Our county’s 65+ population is nearly 32% of 232,400 residents, while statewide, it’s 18%. 18,600 (8%) of seniors are widowed.

WHY IS THIS DATA IMPORTANT?

Prescott became a retirement destina tion in the early 1980s, with retirees from all over the country choosing the Quad Cities area for their golden years. Not all of this population is financially secure. The unintended consequence of 40 years of explosive growth has increased the cost of living beyond the means of our fixed income neighbors who are unable to keep up.

The fact is that the Quad Cities has a large senior population that is struggling to keep up with housing costs and accessing timely medical care. There is also a lack of reliable

public transportation if residents are unable to drive. Consequently, our most vulnerable senior neighbors have become isolated from the world outside their door through their lack of resources to remain independent in their homes, have pets or afford assisted living.

Living on their own with the unex pected loss of a spouse, family loved one or friends has increased their isolation and loneliness. Gerontology research reveals that isolation and loneliness leads to higher risks for prolonged serious medical illness, and behavioral and mental challenges such as anxiety, depression, cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s disease and even death. These risks were compounded during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Thankfully, the Quad Cities is blessed with a non-profit social ser vices agency whose mission is focused on improving the lives of our isolated elders through the help of dedicat ed volunteers. Unfortunately, the pandemic decimated the volunteer network created before 2020. Now that it appears that social isolation is no longer necessary, it is time to rebuild our collective volunteer base for those who want to serve our less fortunate neighbors.

SENIORS MAKING CONNECTIONS

Nearly 20 years ago, Polara Health (formerly West Yavapai Guidance Clinic) established the county’s first volunteer companionship program for isolated seniors 60 years of age and older as a prevention program for isolation risk-factors. People who engage in activities with others tend to live longer, boost their mood and have a sense of purpose. These activities seem to help maintain their well-being and may improve their cognitive function.

By 2018, the Senior Peer Program was focused on providing trained vol unteers for (1) one-on-one compan ionship for isolated seniors, and (2) seven support groups facilitated by knowledgeable volunteers. By 2020, 75 Senior Peers served nearly 150 isolated seniors. After the COVID-19 lockdown, our volunteer corps has been reduced to six group facilitators and 14 one-on-one companions for 14 seniors.

REBUILDING THE SENIOR PEER PROGRAM

On hold during the COVID-19 pan demic, Polara Health is relaunching the Senior Peer program under new leadership. The demand for volunteer

companions exceeds available volun teers. We are determined to rebuild our volunteer corps to meet the needs of our most vulnerable seniors to increase access to behavioral health care, reduce loneliness and stigma around mental health conditions, and provide a lasting impact on the area’s senior populations.

For more information on becoming a Senior Peer Volunteer, contact Melanie Jacobson by email at m.jacobson@polarahealth,

or phone at 928-455-2511 ext. 2035, or check out our website at www. polarahealth.com.

QCBN

Deanna Eder is the director of marketing and communications at Polara Health. For more infor mation, visit polarahealth.com.

October 28

Monday, October 31 – 4 to 7 p.m.

Findlay Toyota Center | Free for all ages

YCCA Providing Learning Opportunities, Construction Updates

Welcome to another edition of At Home with Tom and Sandy. We are here to give you the inside scoop on real estate, the construction industry, what’s up, what’s down, what’s hot and what’s not. We will share real estate stats, home prices, building permit num bers, construction pointers and give you hints on renovations that will give you a return on your investment. We will talk about products, how to take care of your home and so much more.

Sandy: Fall is here Tom. Schools are back in session and I see so many smiling faces on the school buses.

Tom: We are getting into my favorite time of year. Speaking about school, I have noticed what I perceive as an increase in seminars and learn ing opportunities by the YCCA for our industry. Bravo Sandy!

Sandy: Well, I do not know about more, I never really counted them, I just know that YCCA just puts the opportunity out there and loves sharing processes and education with the industry.

Tom: Some of the topics are quite important and germane to what the industry is experiencing. From legislative updates and code changes to permitting across the Quad Cities, YCCA seems to have a good handle on things.

Sandy: Staying relevant is key to thriving, Tom. We have had a lot of updates to our permitting processes and our members appreciate the opportunity to stay abreast of these changes.

Tom: Those seminars impart a lot of good information and can help to relieve a bunch of frustrated contractors and building department employees.

Sandy: We have had a number of suppliers put on informative gather ings to introduce the industry to new products on the market and how some of these products might be better than what is out there now – and, of course, there are always new application methods.

Tom: I remember going to those seminars when the cement board that looks like wood siding was introduced.

I also recall YCCA putting on the Boot Camp a few years ago before COVID-19 hit. That was successful at getting young people interested in the industry.

Sandy: That was a lot of work and included a large number of volunteers such as yourself. But we are not the only source for ongoing education and training. Many of our members also belong to other industry groups.

Tom: I am familiar with Nation al Association of the Remodeling Industry, or NARI. This organization provides hundreds of courses online and webinars.

Sandy: I am familiar with NARI and would add the Association of General Contractors of America. As with NARI, they provide online cours es and webinars.

Tom: Both are great resources for us. The courses tend to be a bit longer and certainly go into more depth on a subject than do the webinars.

Sandy: The courses are longer but cover a lot more ground. With the advent of online learning, one can tale courses offered from anywhere. There are a lot of schools that have a construction curriculum.

Tom: The ability to learn remotely is truly a blessing. So many aspects of the construction industry can be learned without hard classroom time. Examples of what can be taught would be codes, basic structural information, scheduling and basic or advanced business practices.

Sandy: Basic business practices are important and might be overlooked by too many in our industry. That type of course would be valuable. The other thing, though, is there are a lot of “How To” subjects that cannot be taught online.

Tom: True, I think Zoom has helped with that. It allows the student to ask questions in real time.

Sandy: I like that. YouTube is fine for some instructional videos, but I agree that Zoom can really help flatten the learning curve. Because construc tion is so hands on, it is difficult to demonstrate a process and learn from it without human interaction.

Tom: Our readers need to know that we are talking about everything

from two-year degrees where a student can gain knowledge and skills necessary to enter the industry as a seasoned apprentice, to higher degrees in construction management, to the ongoing opportunities for current trades and contractors to hone their skill level.

Sandy: The possibilities and offer ings are incredible. There are so many topics to choose from. I am always on the lookout for ways to help our mem bers learn and improve their ability to serve the folks in our community. One of the coolest links for our industry is the International Code Council (ICC), which offers a variety of professional development and training options for every individual at any point in their career.

Tom: Yes, ICC Assessment Center provides nationally recognized cre dentials that demonstrate a confirmed commitment to protect public health, safety and welfare and participating

in ICC education sure does raise the professionalism of a business and offer certifications.

Sandy: ICC also has a great Technical Training Program (CTTP) to welcome the next generation of leaders to the building safety profes sion. This program works in tandem with existing construction trades, construction technology and engineer ing programs to encourage colleges and trade schools to instruct students about codes and standards.

Tom: I will shout this from the tallest mountain. The building safety profession is an excellent option for young adults looking for a rewarding, high-paying career.

Sandy: Tom, I agree, the demand for skilled workers is up. Over the next 15 years, the building industry will experience a loss of 80% of the existing skilled workforce. This is an excellent career field for those looking for a challenging and enduring career.

Tom: It is never too late to learn. Thanks for stopping in to read At Home with Tom and Sandy. You are in good company and we love sharing educational, fun and important infor mation with you. QCBN

Tom Reilly, LEED Accredited Professional, Architect.

Sandy Griffis, Executive Director, Yavapai County Contractors Association. (928) 778-0040

Remember to tune in to YCCA’s Ham mer Time every Saturday and Sunday morning 7:00 am on KQNA 1130 am/99.9 fm/95/5fm or the web kqna.com. Listen to Sandy and her wingman Mike talk about the construction industry and meet your local community partners. Hammer Time is a great way to start your weekend.

Getting Educated About Financial Planning

By Steven Calabrese

As we continue building our financial plan, we will now discuss a very important aspect for you to become successful. Education; yes, education. We will step out for you some things for you to consider.

I always laugh when I hear some one say, “I can’t wait to get out of school.” Really? If you are not always learning, then you will not meet any of your goals let alone your financial goals.

Learning is a lifetime journey. Whatever the method, whatever the experience. A wide variety of learning is necessary. School is only just scratching the surface.

FORMAL TRAINING

Formal education of some sort is needed to get one started on a career path, as this is the very foundation of one’s ability to earn an income and live one’s life. Your fastest way to wealth is your income: what you earn and how you manage those earnings. Let’s build that education path for success.

HIGH SCHOOL

Let’s begin here. What happens when you graduate? What path shall you choose? College? Trade school? A full-time job? A business of your own? The entire world is yours for the taking, choose carefully. There is no right or wrong answer. What excites you?

This is where more education is needed. Research is likely necessary. With the use of the internet, you can uncover information on just about anything.

A FULL-TIME JOB

This is a potential path one may take for several different reasons. Getting a full-time job to earn some cash to perhaps pursue another path is one reason. Or, perhaps you do not know what you want to do but think you may want to try something out and see if it is for you. You certainly have heard the story of the CEO who began in the mailroom and worked their way up. It can happen.

COLLEGE

There’s a lot to consider here. First, how will it be paid? My advice is to stay away from student loans. They will drag you down. There are scholarships, and a job could help as well. Many organizations are willing to help pay. Hunt them down. Then, choosing a school will be important in the cost. A couple of years at a community college is an option to get things started.

What type of degree will you pursue? Will that degree set you on the career path that you wish? What is the potential return of any degree? In another words, if you get a certain degree, what is your earning potential? Where can you be in 10 years? Twenty years? What is your path to success?

TRADE SCHOOL

Do you like working with your hands? Maybe working as a plumber, electrician or carpenter is what you enjoy. A mechanic, welder or some other trade may suit you. Any of these can provide you with a good income.

How will you pay for these? Per haps you can get a job in construction and maybe they will send you to a trade school. Be creative.

OWN YOUR OWN BUSINESS

Don’t want to work for someone else, want to call your own shots? Do you have an entrepreneurial spirit? What type of need will you fill? What value will you bring to potential customers?

Can you develop a business plan?

If so, great. If not, more education is needed for you to learn how to write one. Perhaps this is where you want to end up after you have gone down one of the other paths outlined above.

Career Path Chosen, Now What?

You may think with your career on track, your education is complete! Think again. It has only just begun. Whatever your career choice, make sure it is something you enjoy and that you will do for a long time and your success will be beyond your imagination.

Now, let’s explore the real-life edu cation you will need to be a success in your financial life.

REAL-LIFE EDUCATION

Think college is it? Not really; formal education is just the beginning. It’s time to learn about real life. If you are all set in your career with a nice job, what’s next?

HOME BUYING

If you want to buy a house, you need to learn about real estate, mortgages and all other home-buying tricks of the trade. When considering home repairs, how are your skills? Can you make the simple repairs?

BUDGETING

We discussed budgeting in an earlier article. You can read it here, (https:// www.quadcitiesbusinessnews.com/ how-to-create-a-budget-for-suc cess/). This is another life skill. if you

do not budget, you will not likely be successful in financial planning.

RETIREMENT PLANNING

Get a jump on retirement planning. Learn about 401Ks, 403Bs, IRAs, Roth IRAs and other tax-saving retirement instruments. Should you use tax deferral or tax-free strategies? How much should you fund? What about funding an HSA? Then, there is the education about Social Security and Medicare. The learning keeps on coming. Early retirement planning will ensure a comfortable retirement.

TAXES

Everyone’s favorite topic is taxes. We all need to pay our taxes, unfortu nately. Learn enough to only pay what you owe. Never overpay. Don’t let the government hold your money. Remember, a tax refund is not a gift from the government, it is your mon ey. It’s better to have it in your pocket than theirs.

INVESTING

What will you do with your money? How will you make it grow? What do you know about investing? More learning. A key to growing your wealth is getting your money to work for you. Where will you invest? What level of risk will you take? Will you be able to sleep at night?

RISK MANAGEMENT

Now that you have a solid financial plan, you need to protect your assets. How much insurance do you need and what types? Using insurance will protect both your family and your assets. Life, disability, health, auto,

homeowners, renters and an umbrel la policy may be in your cards. What do you need? What assets do you need to protect?

ESTATE PLANNING

Creating a solid financial plan will al low you to achieve success. What will you do with your wealth? You cannot take it with you, so more planning is necessary. What will you leave to whom? Did you name beneficiaries on all your assets? Do you have a will? Have you reviewed your intentions with your loved ones? Don’t make this a treasure hunt, tell them where the treasure is buried.

WRAPPING IT UP

In the final analysis, education is an important ingredient to one’s financial success. If you thought you were done once you got your formal education or training, you can now see that it was only the beginning.

Use paid experts in the disciplines you do not understand or need help navigating. Make sure they teach you, not tell you. It is your money and your life. You need to make the decisions.

Good luck!

You work hard for your money make sure it stays your money! 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, in vesting, paying off debt and goal setting are discussed.

Pro Solution Dental Group Opens New Office

By Ray Newton, QCBN

An estimated 50 patients, friends and supporters gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Pro Solutions Dental Group Dental on Thursday afternoon, Sept. 8, at the new offices and laboratories at 3102 Willow Creek Road.

Organized by Prescott Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Sheri Heiney and her team, the celebration featured Jason Campbell, DDS, and his 23-member staff. A dentist in Prescott for the past 18 years, Camp bell said he began planning the new facility four years ago, but had been delayed a bit because of COVID-19.

“Things really slowed for a while. But these past few months, the build ers and contractors have outdone themselves in in preparing what is likely one of the most technologically and digitally sophisticated dental facilities now in Arizona,” Campbell

told the crowd. “I can’t express the pride I have in our efficient profes sional team. With six dental practi tioners and 17 technical and support staff, we think we can take on virtu ally any dental challenge presented to us. Our increased space – more than 5,000 square feet and 13 treatment rooms – and the additional offices, imaging, digital, analytic space and laboratory space is going to let us serve more patients in less time and in a very efficient manner.” QCBN

Pro Dental Solutions Group will specialize in family, implant and reconstructive dentist ry. For more information, call 928 776-1208 or visit prescottdentist.com/.

The professional, technical and support staff for Pro Dental Solutions Group gathered around Dr. Jason Campbell and his wife as they cut the ribbon, officially opening the new office space.

Photo by Ray Newton

Celebrate Celery

By Debbie Maranville

While growing up, my best memories of celery were spread with cream cheese on a veggie platter. Peanut butter and raisins on top of celery was always a fun treat. That would be called “Ants on a Log.” My mother would also attach the food grinder to the table and begin placing multiple stalks of celery into the unit grinder for our Thanksgiving stuffing. I loved helping her with this project.

As an adult and culinary specialist, I include celery in many of our recipes. I especially like celery chopped and tossed into a salad. I also love a few stalks in my Bloody Mary.

CELERY IS VERY HEALTHY

Celery contains vitamin C, beta car otene and flavonoids, but there are at least 12 additional kinds of antioxidant nutrients found in a single stalk. It’s also a wonderful source of phytonu trients, which have been shown to reduce instances of inflammation in the digestive tract, cells, blood vessels and organs.

Chronic inflammation has been linked to many illnesses, including arthritis and osteoporosis. Celery and celery seeds have approximately 25 an

ti-inflammatory compounds that can offer protection against inflammation in the body.

And then there’s the high-water content of celery, almost 95 percent, plus generous amounts of soluble and insoluble fiber. All of those support a healthy digestive tract and keep you regular. One cup of celery sticks has 5 grams of dietary fiber.

With minerals like magnesium, iron and sodium, celery can have a neu tralizing effect on acidic foods – not to mention the fact that these minerals are necessary for essential bodily functions.

TIPS FOR BUYING AND STORING CELERY

N Sturdy stalks. Look for celery that has sturdy, upright stalks. They should snap easily when you pull them, not bend.

N Crisp leaves. Leaves should be crisp and fresh, ranging in color from pale to bright green. Avoid celery with yellow or brown patches.

N Wait to chop. Chop celery just before cooking or serving to maintain nutrients.

Even celery that has been chopped and stored for just a few hours will lose nutrients.

N Steam it.Steamed celery

will retain flavor and almost all of its nutrients.

N Eat in five to seven days. Eat fresh celery within five to seven days to enjoy its maximum nutritional benefits.

N Eat the leaves. Don’t discard the leaves — that’s where celery has the most calcium, potassium and vita min C. But because they don’t store well, consume celery leaves within a day or two of purchase.

In addition to its many health benefits, celery is a versatile veggie. You can eat it raw or cooked, and it makes a great addition to smoothies, stir-fries, soups and juices. Celery can also be steamed or baked.

I asked one of our team members, Chef Charles Kelly, on what he loves about celery and he said, Celery Root, another root vegetable that is high in fiber. He enjoys making a puree with sun dried tomatoes. The puree can be lathered on top of seafood, chicken, pork, baked potatoes and pasta. QCBN

At Goods from the Garden, Cater ing & Events, we are passionate about creating the culinary experience for our customers. Consider our company for your next event. We have a venue,

Tomato Purée

N 1 whole Celery Root, Peeled and Cubed

N 3 cloves Garlic, Crushed

N 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt

N 1 Tablespoon Celery Stalk

Leaves (which come attached to the root), Chopped

N ¼ cups Sun-dried Tomatoes, Minced

N 1 Tablespoon Butter

N 2 Tablespoons Milk

N 3 Tablespoons Vegetable Stock

N 2 pinches Salt

N ½ teaspoons Black Pepper

conveniently located at the Prescott Gateway Mall. We can accommodate up to 100 guests. Contact us at 928-237-4116 or goodsfromthegarden@gmail.com.

DIRECTIONS:

N Melt butter over medium-high heat in a heavy-bottomed pot.

N Cook onions, celery, and garlic until translucent, about five to seven minutes. Add flour and cook one minute.

N Add chicken stock and milk, stirring until smooth. Increase heat, bringing mixture to a sim mer. Reduce heat to medium, adding remaining ingredients, and simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes.

N Add salt to taste.

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

Eleven Fall Tips for Better Gardens

By Ken Lain

Autumn gardening is a great time to look back on garden successes and disappoint ments. There’s still plenty of time to do some garden maintenance. Fall gardening takes advantage of cooler temperatures and fewer weeds and insects. Putting the garden to bed is not as hectic as waking it up in the spring. You’ll have time to really see how your plants are doing.

Here are some tasks to do now, to make next year’s garden brighter and better.

1. Enrich garden beds with Wat ters Barnyard Manure. Spread a 2-3 inch layer evenly over any exposed soil. Earthworms, along with the winter’s freeze and thaw cycle, will work this nutrient-rich manure into the soil for you.

2. Collect dried seed from your flowers, vegetables and herbs. Save these seeds for planting next year’s garden. You might even try to expand your skills and try winter sowing this fall.

3. Clean bird feeders to get them ready for use. The birds have

done a great job of feasting on garden pests and serenading you this year. We are on the migra tory path for birds. It amazes me how many different birds visit the feeders through the end of the year.

4. Gather herbs and flowers for drying. Leave some flowers for the birds, but get a head start on your garden clean-up by cutting back plants like hydrangea, lav ender and yarrow and bringing them indoors. I can smell the herbal fragrance now.

5. Clean cold frames for winter use. You won’t want to do it when the temperature hovers below freezing. Cleaning it out in the fall makes it more likely you will put it to use in the spring.

6. Winterize your water garden Get ready to turn off the pump and turn on the ice breaker.

Don’t forget to cover the water garden with netting to keep falling leaves out and the blue herons from getting in.

7. Keep trees and shrubs well-wa tered until the ground freezes. They may look dormant, but

they’re still alive. If you have a mild, dry winter, continue watering throughout the season. This goes double for trees that were planted this year. A good rule of thumb is to irrigate your landscape with a deep soak at two-week intervals.

8. Cut back most perennials Definitely cut back diseased perennials and remove all foliage

and dispose of it somewhere other than your compost.

9. Clean, sand and oil garden tools before storing them for the winter.

10. Feed the entire yard. This is especially true for young landscapes. Feed ev erything in the yard with Watters 7-4-4

Undertaking the Updated General Plan

By Phil Goode

The City of Prescott is about to undertake the update and adoption of the 2025 General Plan. The General Plan is the public document that guides the future of a city. Per Arizona Revised Statutes, a city’s land development decisions must be consistent withthe adopt

ed General Plan. Cities under a population of 50,000 must have the following elements in their plans: Land Use, Circulation, Open Space, Growth Areas, Environmental Planning, Cost of Development, and Water Resources.

General Plans must be thoroughly reviewed and updated every 10 years. In 2015, Prescott adopted its most

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To stay in compliance with state law, Prescott must adopt an updated general plan by the end of 2025. To undertake this effort, the city has created a General Plan Project Team led by the Planning Division within the Community Development Department. This Project Team will consist of city staff from all departments and will include input from our regional partners such as the Town of Prescott Valley, the Town of Chino Valley, Yavapai County, the Central Yavapai Metropolitan Planning Organization and other local and regional organizations.

recent update, which contained all five of the required elements plus two additional voluntary elements: Eco nomic Development and Communi ty Quality. The 2015 Prescott General Plan can be accessed by visiting the City’s website: https://www.prescottaz.gov/business-development/plan ning/general-plan/.

To stay in compliance with state law, Prescott must adopt an updated general plan by the end of 2025. To undertake this effort, the city has cre ated a General Plan Project Team led by the Planning Division within the Community Development Depart ment. This Project Team will consist of city staff from all departments and will include input from our regional partners such as the Town of Prescott Valley, the Town of Chino Valley, Yavapai County, the Central Yavapai Metropolitan Planning Organization and other local and regional organi zations.

To assist the Project Team, the City Council has appointed an 11-citizen General Plan Commit tee. This committee will play an integral role in the extensive public outreach

process planned for 2023, which will ensure that the updated General Plan represents the vision of all of Prescott residents. The members of the committee are Don Michelman, Deborah Thalasitis, Ted Gambogi, Gary Worob, Andre Carman, James McCarver, Ralph Hess, Mary Fred rickson, Jim Huffman, Rod Moyer and Terry Sapio. Council liaisons are Eric Moore and Brandon Montoya.

Following the extensive public out reach, the Project Team will utilize the input gathered from Prescott res idents and develop a draft document for the General Plan Committee to review. This draft will be presented to the City’s Planning and Zoning Commission for a recommendation and then to the City Council for approval. With that approval, the General Plan must then be ratified by the residents of Prescott to become effective. The ratification follows the same process as a referendum. The voters of Prescott will have the General Plan on the ballot in the city’s primary election in August 2025. QCBN

Phil Goode is the mayor of Prescott.

All Purpose Plant Food. This brings out the fall flowers and autumn colors. More important ly, your evergreens will maintain their rich green colors through winter and provide better growth next spring.

11. Treat your evergreen pine and spruce with Plant Protector. This easy-to-use plant drench keeps the bugs out of your trees and larger evergreens for the year to come.

Now you have my personal list of autumn garden tasks. You have plen ty of time, but the entire list should be completed before Thanksgiving. Until next issue, I’ll be helping locals grow better gardens here at Watters Garden Center. QCBN

Throughout the week, Ken Lain can be found at Watters Garden Center, 1815

W. Iron Springs Road in Prescott, or contacted through his website at WattersGardenCenter.com or Top10Plants.com.

Going Back to the Workplace

By Teri Drew

Since the pandemic, we have seen the pendulum swing from the “Great Resignation” to the “Great Retention.” Now we are expe riencing the “Great Return!”

There are two sides to every coin –the front and the back. The front side of the “inflation coin” is the most ob vious side that everyone talks about, such as the high prices at the grocery store and the gas pump. However, the back side doesn’t get as much attention, but it’s just as important –inflation is driving workers back to the workplace, which is good for local economies!

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the U.S. economy added 315,000 jobs in August, with notable job gains in professional and business services, health care and retail trade. In a U.S. Department of Labor blog titled “Why It’s Good the Employment Rate Ticked Up,” Joelle Gamble wrote, “In August, the labor force participation increased to 62.4% after stagnating for several months. This increase in participation led to a slight increase in the unemployment rate, now at 3.7%. This rise was a pos itive sign – Americans who were not employed and not looking for work

began to look for work, becoming classified as unemployed. (Unem ployed persons must be actively looking for work to be counted in the primary measure of the unemploy ment rate.)

Notably, the prime-age (25-54 years old) employment to popula tion ratio recovered, particularly the employment-to-population ratio for prime-age women. And prime-age women’s labor force participation rate now exceeds its February 2020 point. This is one month of data that we hope will become a trend.”

The latest jobs report for Yavapai County shows an increase in total non-farm employment of 2,400 jobs in July – an increase of 3.7%. Still, our supply of workers does not equal the demand, which changes the econo my, especially related to interest rates. We have seen national permanent job loss of 188,000 in August, while the long-term unemployed saw little change. The number of persons not in the labor force who currently want a job declined by 361,000 in August.

In the metropolitan Prescott area, the labor force was approximately 67,600 in July, up 3.7% from last year, and the number of unemployed was 3,656, just 3.4% of the labor force – a decrease of 0.9% from one year ago.

Layoffs are at record lows, ac cording to The Daily Independent. Layoff rate estimates for June 2022 by industry range from less than 0.5% in financial activities and state and local governments, to 1.7% in construc tion. Trade/transportation/utilities, leisure/hospitality and construction are at record low layoffs, although some are still behind pre-pandemic levels when it comes to employment, particularly in leisure/hospitality. The demand for travel and vacations in

Northern Arizona is helping to drive job growth in these industries.

Job opportunities continue to rise, with the demand for skilled labor increasing more and more. The econ omy recovers well when business functions well within the com munity. Business functions well when people go back to work. The Yavapai County Workforce Development Board stands ready to provide skills training for job

seekers to equip them for in-demand jobs in career occupations, fostering a sustainable economy and workforce retention.

QCBN

Teri Drew is the executive director of the Yavapai County Workforce Devel opment Board.

Exploring Arizona Philharmonic’s Community-Centric Vision

By Sandy Farrell

To understand Arizona Philharmonic’s vision for the Prescott fine arts communi ty, it is helpful to hear executive director Henry Flurry speak of the orchestra’s culture of kindness. During AZ Phil’s founding, this culture began with respect and hospitality for the musicians. It quickly grew to include the audience, volunteers, staff, board members and the community.

COMMUNITY-CENTRIC VISION

Behind the orchestra’s goals of creating beautiful and transformative music is a multi-layered, community-centric vision. First is attracting professional musicians to North-Central Arizo na with professional performing opportunities at professional wages. AZ Phil, into its fifth season, has hired nearly 200 musicians and in troduced 170 musicians to Prescott who hadn’t played here before. Many of those now play in other local ensembles.

AZ Phil also seeks to enhance Prescott’s existing arts-vibrancy by developing local stages for classical music’s specific needs. “We have been applying for grants to place a professional piano at the Elks Theatre,” said Flurry. “Imagine parking downtown, enjoying a meal, and then walking to a classical music concert.” AZ Phil also is working with the Margot Fonteyn Academy of Ballet and local philanthropists to develop a shared campus with a multi-stage fine arts venue. “We’re imagining not just ballet and orchestra concerts, but also opera and drama and summer festivals,” said Flurry.

Arizona Philharmonic works to increase ac cessibility to the arts. Their outreach has includ ed offering OLLI classes, composing with after school programs, performing on school play grounds during COVID, and collaborating to create authentic learning experiences. In January, Arizona Philharmonic performed five orchestral pieces that were composed by third and sixth graders who were inspired by visits to the Jim and Linda Lee Planetarium.

PUTTING BEAUTIFUL MUSIC WITHIN EVERYONE’S REACH

And then there is Art 4 All, a program offer ing free or pay-what-you-can tickets to anybody who otherwise could not afford such. To reach these communities, AZ Phil partners with schools, churches and other local non-profits, such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boys and Girls Club, Boys to Men Mentoring, Prescott Area Women’s Shelter and ComMUSIKey.

Music professor Dr. Joshua Harper of Yavapai College is a big fan. “By allowing com munity members the opportunity to pay what they can, financial barriers are broken down and all are given access to professional music. This program shows AZ Phil’s priority: our commu nity.”

Adriana Arizmendi, a Prescott mother, says that Art 4 All allows her family to enjoy beautiful concerts. She added, “The concerts deepen my children’s appreciation for music and develop curiosity about other music and other compos ers.”

What began as an interview about AZ Phil’s Art 4 All program had segued into a thoughtful conversation about people functioning at their best when they feel valued; discussing what kind of community we want; and exploring what hospitality and kindness looks like for the community.

Timpanist Maria Flurry chimed in. “Art is an important part of the human experience that all should access. Coming to a concert is like going to a church; you set aside that time not to be disturbed and you create something almost sacred.” QCBN

For tickets and information go to AZPhil.org.

Sandra Farrell is a former broadcast and print jour nalist. More recently, she was press secretary for elected officials and she retired from the San Francisco Federal Reserve Bank as media manager. She and her husband and two dogs moved to Prescott a year ago and love all things Prescott.

COVID. People don’t realize the impact of not being able to get products and the cost of freight that changes hourly. It’s very difficult but she’s kept people working through all of that.”

Blacksmithing and knifemaking classes are popular at Pieh Tool and are held monthly, nine months out of the year. Master Bladesmith Raymond Rybar, one of 150 Master Smiths reg istered worldwide by the American Blacksmith Society, is an instructor, along with Prescottbased Oso Blanco Ironworks owner Dylan Cook.

“Amy has done a great job creating a resource for blacksmiths in tool distribution and educational opportunities,” said Cook, who has taught beginning blacksmithing classes for six years at the Camp Verde location.

Currently, customer accounts have totaled more than 50,000. Annually, they produce a 180page blacksmith and farrier supply catalog.

“I believe my mom and dad would be very proud that I was able to establish Pieh Tool Com pany and carry on the traditions that they practiced for most of their lives.  I could not have done any of this without their inspiration, motivation and incredible example. QCBN

Why a Housekeeping Service?

By Lucy Leyva

Housekeepers are something only rich people have. Or, are they?

The truth is a housekeeping service is more affordable than you might think and is no different than paying someone to cook your meals at a restaurant or change your oil. Someone is happy to have the work and you don’t have to do it. It’s a win for everyone! Prescott Maid to Order explains why you should hire a profes sional house cleaning service to care for your Prescott home.

Here are some great reasons:

CLEANING SUPPLIES

You can clean your bathroom with an all-in-one cleaner, but if you want to do it right, you’re going to need more than that: window solution, tile cleaner, toilet cleaner and a grout cleaner. Have you ever seen a housekeeper’s cleaning tray? It’s full of cleaners and cleaning tools for a reason. Professionals know how to get things really clean.

BASEBOARDS

Have you looked at your baseboards recently? Baseboards are where all the hair, dust, scuff marks and whatever the vacuum decided to push out of the

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Yes, you can clean your own home. And maybe you even have the time to do it. But a professional cleaner is much more affordable than you’d think. Instead of thinking of what you’re paying for the service, think about what that money is buying you: more time with your friends and family, more time for your hobbies and fun activities. You’re not just buying a cleaning service; you’re buying a better experience of life.

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way lives. They aren’t hard to clean, but they require a wet cloth and crawling on your hands and knees. Why would you want to do that yourself?

DUSTING

Everything in your home has a surface that is collecting dust constantly. A feather duster is easy and kind of fun to use, but unless you are lifting every thing up and moving everything out of the way, then you aren’t getting any thing clean. And let’s not even mention what’s collecting under the fridge and behind your dryer. Hire a professional and never wrestle a dust bunny again.

KNOBS, HANDLES, SWITCHES

Do you even realize these items need to be cleaned? Everyone opens the doors and everyone turns on the lights. This is where the germs live. Clean them up!

THE BATHROOM

Honestly, this should be a no-brainer. But just in case you aren’t aware, your bathroom needs to be cleaned at least weekly. And bathrooms don’t lend themselves to easy access. Ever try to reach that spot behind the toilet? The dirt can. And so can the professionals. They can handle soap scum, mildew, and that weird coloring on the tile in the corner.

THE FLOORS

All the dirt eventually ends up on the floor. No matter the floor type, all floors should be thoroughly cleaned every two weeks or that dirt starts to settle in for good. Are you really going to do that deep clean every other week?

The pros will.

A BETTER JOB

Don’t take this the wrong way, but we all learn to ignore our own dirt. The pros look at your home the way your guests look at it – and make sure it’s up to par. We should probably talk about procrastination at some point, too, but that can wait a bit longer.

YOU’LL LOVE YOUR HOME EVEN MORE

You know how a sandwich always tastes better when someone else makes it? Your home is the same way. Instead of your home being an endless list of chores always staring you down, let your home be a sanctuary and cross cleaning off of your to-do list.

YOU’LL HAVE MORE TIME

Time is the great equaliz er. We all have the same amount every day and we are all about an hour short of what we need. So, hire a pro

to get things done while you’re doing all that other stuff, so when you come home you can finally be done.

TIME IS MONEY

Yes, you can clean your own home. And maybe you even have the time to do it. But a professional cleaner is much more affordable than you’d think. Instead of thinking of what you’re paying for the service, think about what that money is buying you: more time with your friends and family, more time for your hobbies and fun activities. You’re not just buying a cleaning service; you’re buying a better experience of life.

Prescott Maid to Order wants to help you live a better life. Find out how we can help you enjoy the good stuff while we take care of the grimy stuff.

QCBN

Prescott Maid to Order also offers home maintenance services through our sister company Prescott Property Maintenance and can help with any of these tasks with one phone call.

Lucy Leyva is the owner of Prescott Maid to Order and Prescott Property Maintenance.

tion occurring. They have high unemployment, as well as a lack of infrastructure. And we felt that Navajo Power was a necessity in order to address these issues from the private sector.”

The Navajo Power endeavor was started in 2018 by Isaac and Dan Rosen, in partnership with Tony Skrelunas, former director of economic development for the Navajo Nation, and Joshua Finn, a solar finance professional.

“Dan and I were the two original founders,” Isaac said. “Dan, being a Jewish kid from New Jersey, and myself, being Navajo, really saw a need for a different type of development. And we had previously been involved in the energy industry in different segments; Dan being in residential finance and myself being in off-grid and community-based solar. So, we are really born out of the Navajo Nation and in response to the closure of the Navajo Generating Station.”

Isaac added that Rosen is a co-founder and former CEO of Mosaic, which has now provided more than $10 billion in loans for residential solar deployment across the United States.

Currently, Navajo Power has projects under develop ment with tribal partners in multiple states, including New Mexico, Arizona, California and Oregon.

“We have plans of expanding into other parts,” Isaac noted. “Our team members are predominantly virtual. We have team members on the East Coast, West Coast, in Arizona, on the Navajo Nation, as well as in Mexico City. So, we’re really building this team to bring together the best talent from around North America, in addressing some of the largest challenges that indigenous communi ties are facing with this transition.”

There are strong reasons for basing Navajo Power in Flagstaff, Isaac said. “We’re close to our sacred moun tain, the San Francisco Peaks, in Navajo called Dooksliid, and it represents the Western gateway to our traditional homelands. Really, that’s where we derive our strength

from. We wanted to be able to base ourselves in a sacred place so that we had clear thoughts and to be constantly reminded about the vision and mission.”

To move ahead with this vision and mission, Isaac has personally designed, built, deployed and maintained more than 200 off-grid solar systems on the Navajo Nation for households who lacked electricity. He has also worked with local chapters in the Nation to execute numerous community development initiatives.

One of his first initiatives was the development of a community-owned enterprise, the creation of a solar company at Shonto on the Navajo Nation – Shonto Energy.

“Navajo Power was really born out of some of the things that we saw previously as challenges to tribal development,” Isaac said. “One of them was needing to be a larger player and influencer over how energy was developed on tribal lands, getting involved in advocacy on the tribal policy and government relations spectrum, and then also helping to make tribal lands investable.”

Everyone will need to work together for the common good.

“We really want to be collaborative with our neighbors and our allies, because this transition is going to require all that collaboration and support we have in order to make a better place for our communities,” he conclud ed. “Ultimately, we want to preserve the beauty of this area through the cultivation of renewable clean energy projects.” QCBN

For more information, visit navajopower.com.

NACOG continued from page 10

NACOG by giving students information that will let them complete their education and certification as cosmetologists and aestheticians. Owner Sheri Rogers provides her students with educational opportunities and certifications to the point that in the past year, 13 students benefitted. Ten graduated and seven became employed.

EXCEPTIONALISM IN PARTNERSHIP RECOGNITION

Linda Bolyard: Title 111 Re-Employment Services Supervisor for Yavapai County Linda Bolyard is credited with recognizing and under standing the partnership benefits of having staff at the Prescott location where staff could identify and shift staff members to accommodate the workload created by the pandemic. She collaborated with others to be as certained that all critical roles would be filled while the rotation of key staff positions was shifting.

CHAIRMAN’S AWARD

Mel Ingwaldson: Since 2006, Ingwaldson has contributed his leadership and support to the Summer Youth Employment Programs and Youth Service Provider selections. He also has worked with the public voice rep resentative on the executive committee to provide recommendations to the executive committee.

OUTSTANDING MEMBER RECOGITION

Patrick Ramirez: Ramirez joined the workforce development board in spring 2021 with the Arizona Pipe Trades Apprenticeship. He has assisted with technical and logistical support along the way with new personnel and he is credited with having gone beyond ordinary limits in supporting new personnel in training.

During the program’s closing moment, Supervisor Mallory said she was proud to represent the board in congratulating those who had been recog nized for their hard work and dedication and strong contributions to the overall county economy. QCBN

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further and should lower the costs for products in which chips and wafers are used.

Sidhwa emphasized that chips and semiconductors are “the tiny brains found in all sorts of contemporary products, ranging from computers and automobiles to household appli ances and weapons systems.”

Sidhwa was even more enthusiastic about Pure Wafer’s growing business in life sciences, photonics and mi cro-electromagnetic systems when it acquired NOEL Technologies. It is a Silicon Valley foundry that serves as a developer of innovative semicon ductor and biochips. The company fills the innovation gap, often serving as an extension of research and development.

He said, “More and more scientists and medical personnel are finding creative applications for microchips and biochips that can be then used to help people find remedies and tackle diseases that ultimately improve quality of life. Use of semiconductor technology applications through artificial intelligence applications are astounding. We’re generations ahead of where we were 10 years ago.”

He stressed that what’s really sig nificant is that such applications are now more approved at the interna tional level.

“What we want to do in Prescott is to expand our production, even as

much as 20 to 40%. At the same time, we’re improving efficiency of produc tion of what we are manufacturing, For instance, we’ve become more effi cient in use of water. Same thing with chemicals. Same thing with electric ity. We are reducing emissions and pollution dramatically. We take great pride in having absolute purified air and sterile water.”

Increased production will permit Pure Wafer to add to its already large customer base of 1,600 integrated device manufacturers (IDM) and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

The company has a growing client base throughout North America, Asia and Europe.

Arizona State University (ASU) President Michel Crow is also an advocate for expanding the semicon ductor business in the state. He said that ASU is well positioned to pro vide the skilled talent needed, with 30,000 students currently enrolled in the engineering school.

Sidhwa admits that finding good labor is sometimes difficult. Because Pure Wafer operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and because it is expanding so rapidly, recruiting reliable labor is a continual challenge. Additionally, because Pure Wafer has its original plant in Prescott and another two fabrication plants in San Jose and Campbell, California, called

Noel Technologies, labor demands continue to increase, Sidhwa said. Last month’s report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported the creation of 528,000 new jobs.

Pure Wafer is offering short- and long-term insurance plans, disability plans, medical insurance, on-the-job training and professional advance ment opportunities to attract skilled

workers.

“Financial incentives now available are going to accelerate even further since Pure Wafer is the No. 1 most advanced wafer reclaim company in the nation,” said Sidhwa. “We’re proud of that.” QCBN

version of yourself. Take 30 minutes a week to think about how you want to be remembered.”

N Practice gratitude. “Create a grati tude journal. Make it a habit every day to write down one thing you’re thankful for. Do this once in the morning and once at night.”

N Reach out to somebody. “Whether it’s a phone call or a text, let some one know how much they mean to you. Thank people in your lives who made a difference in your life.”

N Create an “Elijah Moment.” Elijah was a prophet who encouraged others. “Make it a habit every day just to smile and ask somebody how they’re doing. Small acts of kindness really make a difference in somebody’s life.”

N Pray. “I believe that none of us can get anything done with only our own efforts, but there’s a higher power. I’m here as God’s ambassa dor to maximize my potential and to share God’s light with the world.”

“What Will They Say About You When You Are Gone? Creating a Life of Legacy,” is available on Amazon. QCBN

To hear more, visit Zonie Living: Devel oping Holy Habits for Living our Best Life with Rabbi Daniel Cohen at StarWorldWid eNetworks.com

countries for his contributions to the NASA space program. He was never featured in international TV and press the way the first astronauts were, but GROVER was.

Tinnin credits a story published three years ago in the Flagstaff Busi ness News (FBN) and Quad Cities Business News (QCBN) with creating public awareness, especially in Cen tral and Northern Arizona. “I had hundreds of people from just Arizona contact me. Some come visit me. They want to hear even more.”

The really big exposure happened when a television team from the Netherlands visited Flagstaff in June 2019 and read the FBN article. They contacted him at his Prescott Valley home, arranged to film a video and posted that video on YouTube. Shortly thereafter, Tinnin began receiving messages from viewers from around

the world. He now has fans from coast to coast and border to border – Mas sachusetts to Washington and Oregon, and Texas to Wisconsin, and many states between.

International contacts range from the one with the Dutch in 2019 to a more recent one this fall with the Czech Republic. An especially intriguing handwritten letter was from a youngster, Sue Jennings, from Victoria, Australia, who said in part:

“What an exciting life you led. You must be very clever to be involved in all the ground-breaking activities you have. Will you please autograph the enclosed photo and return it to me?”

Foreign contacts range from throughout Europe and the United Kingdom to Canada and the South Pacific.

For instance, Bill and his wife, Pam, encountered a British couple while

He built the prototype that astronauts trained in from a wrecked truck and auto parts he scrounged from Flagstaff junkyards. He replaced the original wheels with four battery-driven electric wheels. He stripped an old umbrella frame, turned it inside out and used it as the antenna to send and receive radio signals from the spaceship and Earth.

on a vacation in Alaska in 2011. They have remained in regular contact since. The couple did some research about Tinnin and his connection to NASA and the U. S. Geological Survey (USGS) where Tinnin worked for decades. The Brits, both teachers and cinematographers, made a video fo cusing on Bill and Grover and shared it with organizations and groups and put it on travel blogs. That stimulated even more contacts from around the world. The couple visited and stayed with the Tinnins in April.

To be clear, Tinnin did not build the actual vehicles that roved the moon. He built the prototype that astronauts trained in from a wrecked truck and auto parts he scrounged from Flagstaff junkyards. He replaced the original wheels with four battery-driven electric wheels.

He stripped an old umbrella frame, turned it inside out and used it as the antenna to send and receive radio signals from the spaceship and Earth.

Asked if he could build a lunar rov er, Tinnin said, “Sure, why not?” At that time he was working at the USGS where he began work as a mechanic after being honorably discharged from the U.S. Air Force. Tinnin credits Eugene Shoemaker, a distinguished USGS geologist, with having the vision to realize astronauts would need more than foot power to roam a moonscape pockmarked by eons of space debris impacts. Shoemaker also realized the

terrain around Flagstaff, with its many craters, lava flows and craggy ravines, would be an ideal location to train astronauts.

Shoemaker and fellow geologists, including the late Gordon Swann, dedicated years of their careers to train and educate astronauts about what they likely would encounter on the moon’s surface. Tinnin traveled with Swann to diverse terrains throughout Arizona and Nevada to train astro nauts in GROVER.

“I was one of the lucky ones,” Tin nin said. “I worked with every astro naut who walked on the moon. I have a framed wall display with mission patches and images given to me from every Apollo mission and I’m very proud of it. I’m proud of our team that made it happen – Rutledge ‘Putty’ Mills, Dick Wiser and Walt Fahey.”

The cost for Tinnin’s version of the Moon Buggy was about $2,000. NASA’s version cost $20,000, he said. “And when the ones used on the moon were built by Boeing, it cost more than $1 million.”

Tinnin says he doesn’t have much contact now with the early astronauts and other NASA and USGS personnel.

“Many of them are gone now. After all, it has been more than 50 years. But I have my memories, and I have people who still want to learn more. What else could I ask for?”

Tinnin’s achievements are docu mented in several publications, in

cluding “Lunar and Planetary Rovers,” by Anthony Young and “Northern Arizona Space Training,” by Kevin Schindler and William Sheehan. He is cited in dozens of USGS publications.

Guided tours to visit GROVER and other USGS space exploration tools will be offered by the USGS at the free Flagstaff Star Party Field Day, 3-5 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 22, at Buffalo Park.

A SPECIAL MEMORY

Being near CBS newsman Walter Cronkite when he said those now in delible words, “Man is on the Moon.”

A MAJOR CHALLENGE

Building something from scratch for an outer space exploration that had never before been attempted. Our technology then was very primitive.

HOW I DECOMPRESS

Listening to a lot of country music.

GREATEST SOURCE OF PRIDE

All 20 astronauts who were sent to the Moon used the vehicles we built to train on the crater fields that surround Flagstaff.

REALITY HIT

When some of those astronauts returned to Flagstaff and shook our hands. We knew it [driving on the moon] had really happened.

Pure Wafer Vice President of Operations Ardy Sidhwa, Ph.D., is excited about the expansion opportunities now available to the Prescott-based firm because of passage of the recent $280 billion Chips and Science Act to incentivize investments in the semiconductor industry. Courtesy photo