June 2022 by Flagstaff Business News

INSIDE THE JUNE 2022 ISSUE: CCC Wins Vote of Approval p. 3 Rosie’s Story Inspires Special Care Nursery Support p. 4 Two Men and a Truck Move into Flagstaff p. 6

Kari Rauch Coaxes Metal, Stones into Art p. 10 Camp Verde Vineyard Bottling Reds and Whites p. 12 Astronaut Harrison Schmitt is Grand Marshal p. 14

Astronauts are Back, Training in the Dark Flagstaff’s lunar legacy continues with preparations for upcoming Moon missions

By Bonnie Stevens, FBN

pace-suited astronauts are training again on Babbitt Ranches, preparing for the manned Artemis mission scheduled to explore the lunar South Pole in

2025. The goal is to find ice, which may enable future explorers to set up a space station on the Moon and serve as a launching pad into deeper space. “Because of where Artemis and VIPER [a planetary rover set for launch

next year] are landing, the angle of the sun is really, really low. Craters may contain ice that never sees the sun. The astronauts are going to have to work in dark regions, so they have been conducting nighttime tests on Babbitt Ranches using a portable sun – a large spotlight-type device – to learn how they can operate safely on the Moon,” said USGS Astrogeology

Science Center research geologist Jim Skinner, who works with NASA’s Desert Research and Technology Studies (Desert RATS). Babbitt Ranches’ dark skies and rugged Moon-like landscape have been critical elements for astronaut training and space equipment testing for decades, dating back to the USGS Continued on page 42

Last of the Large Loggers Leaves Flagstaff Ribelin Logging parks its loaders for good By Bonnie Stevens, FBN

Tim and Ken Ribelin work in the sort yard as Ribelin Logging closes down. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography.

June 2022 | Issue 6 Volume 15

hen forest restoration giant Wally Covington drives by the Ribelin Logging Co. sort yard on East Huntington in Flagstaff and sees the equipment up for sale, it makes him sad. “They are very good operators in the forest and had a huge impact on the community.” With decades of experience, millions of dollars invested in logging equip-

ment and a deep love for the forest, Ribelin Logging Co. President Ken Ribelin says the family-owned and operated business – a thriving logging company that at one time employed almost 70 people and could run 50 to 60 truckloads of timber a day – is closing. “We really cared about what we did,” he said. “We hope our legacy is about bringing the image of the logging industry up. We always prided ourselves on what we did. We thinned a lot of acres, kept a lot of fire restrictions down and supplied a lot of jobs. Others looked up to us in what was Continued on page 37

Good Business Requires Good People.

Flagstaff businesses can receive 50% off

Check Out the New FBN Local Employment Opportunities Section on page 25 Sponsored by Flagstaffcitycareers.com

Flagstaff Business News // JUNE 2022

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

JUNE 2022 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

The expansion of programs already in operation includes the nursing program. On May 5, 30 new graduates of CCC’s nursing program took the Nightingale Pledge in preparation for careers as nurses. Courtesy Photo

Vote of Confidence Means Additional Workforce Support from CCC

By Larry Hendricks, FBN

oconino County voters have approved an increase in funding for Coconino Community College. That means new and expanded offerings focusing on career and technical training to help Coconino County’s workforce will become a reality over the next several years. On Friday, May 27, during a special session, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors certified the election results for CCC’s request to increase the primary property tax levy to support the college. “On behalf of Coconino Community College, I would like to thank the voters and the many community members who worked hard to help the ballot initiative be successful,” said CCC President Colleen A. Smith, Ph.D. “Because of them, we can continue our good work moving into a bright future serving students throughout Coconino County.” CCC staff and faculty have already begun plans to grow existing programs and start new programs that county business leaders and residents have deemed important. New programs requested by the communities CCC serves, which require additional faculty, staff, facilities, equipment and resources, will be developed and rolled out. “It is the board’s job to ensure fiscal responsibility and further your community college’s mission of accessible and affordable educational programs and workforce training,” said Nat White, Ph.D., chair of the CCC District Governing Board. “We thank you for your confidence in helping Coconino Community College move to the next level in serving the citizens of Coconino County.” The election saw 20,947 ballots cast, which was about 23% of the registered voters in Coconino County. Of the ballots cast, the vast majority were submitted by mail. About 64% voted in favor of the tax reset for the college. “Yes, we will still have the lowest tax rate

of all community colleges in Arizona,” said Smith. “And, yes, we will still continue to be good stewards of public funds. However, this additional funding will make a big difference and provide much needed fiscal stability as we move into the future.” The approved funding is intended for, but not limited to, the following programs: N Initiate new career, technical education and training programs that prepare Coconino County residents for jobs in Coconino County. N Develop new programs to support veterans’ training for civilian jobs. N Develop new programs to train and re-train Coconino County workers, in collaboration with Coconino County employers and expand current job training programs. N Continue and expand career and technical education programs established with onetime funding: N Automotive Technology N CDL (Truck Driving) N Early Childhood Education Certificate (Preschool Teachers) N Assisted Living Caregiver Certificate N Google IT Support Professional Certificate N Amazon Web Services Certificate N Cyber Security Associate of Applied Science N Increased Number of Students in Nursing Program N Marine Maintenance Technician N Welding Certification N Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) N Expand career and technical training degree and certificate programs: N Additional Healthcare Programs N Ultrasound/Sonography Technician N Surgical Technician N Respiratory Therapist N Anesthesia Technician N Electric Car and Charging Station Technician Continued on page 40

Flagstaff Business News // JUNE 2022

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Rosie’s Room to Support Struggling Newborns and their Families Grandparents’ gratitude attracts business support for FMC’s Special Care Nursery By Bonnie Stevens, FBN

osie Byrne is a spirited little redhead who loves to sing “Trot Old Joe,” listen to stories at the Flagstaff library and make everyone around her smile and laugh. Indeed, there is a great deal of joy surrounding this energetic 2-anda-half-year-old, along with an abundance of gratitude and a community of support. Soon, through the efforts of Rosie’s grandparents and generous donations from businesses inspired by Rosie’s story, there will be “Rosie’s Room,” named in her honor in Flagstaff Medical Center’s Special Care Nursery, to benefit other children who have a rough start in life. Rosie was born on August 19, 2019. Three months premature, she weighed less than two-and-a-half pounds and her lungs were severely underdeveloped. The first 99 days of Rosie’s fragile young life were spent in the Special Care Nursery (SCN). Nearly all of the 60 or so nurses,

doctors, neonatal nurse practitioners, developmental specialists and nursery techs became her extended family. First-time parents Janea and Austin Byrne settled in for what became a very extended stay at the hospital. Rosie’s grandparents, Terry and Lana Laudick of Albuquerque, became regular guests there as well. In fact, the retired couple sold their home and moved to Flagstaff to be near and offer support to their daughter, sonin-law and new granddaughter. “We had a couple of experiences that were very traumatic,” said Terry Laudick, as he painfully recalled tense, terrifying moments when Rosie’s oxygen level dropped. Amidst the buzzing and beeping of breathing machines and heartrate monitors, tiny Rosie fought for her life as healthcare professionals treated her, fed her through a feeding tube and watched her around the clock. “There were alarms constantly going off, not only for Rosie but for other infants suffering challenges, and the

Healthy, strong Rosie Byrne loves to run and laugh, says the 2-year-old’s grateful grandfather, Terry Laudick, who raves about the care she received from FMC as a premature newborn. Courtesy photo

staff would race over. They provided ongoing observation and the medical treatment was just phenomenal.” “Rosie had a complicated admission,” said SCN Clinical Manager Jeanne Wiles. “She was put in an incubator and on a ventilator right away. She was quite sick, but such a strong little fighter.” Through seemingly endless days of

Angie Rodriguez Mark Colletti

worry, Laudick was amazed at the attention and support the families of the newborns received. “It really was the staff that took the time to sit down with us, meditate, pray, hold hands.” FMC’s Special Care Nursery is a Level 3 Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICU), licensed to treat premature babies born at 28 weeks and up.

Cal McLoy Gary Nelson

75 years of combined experience in Northern AZ Real Estate

Thinking of selling? Feel stuck?

Sell your Flagstaff area property with us and make a difference in the world. Contact us to find out how!

Sell with us in 2022, and you will receive $500 for moving expenses plus we will donate $500 to Habitat for Humanity in your name at close of escrow. Restrictions apply.

www.GaryNelsonGroup.com | 928-225-3510 gary@garynelsongroup.com | Realty Executives of Flagstaff

Typically the SCN averages between 10 to 15 babies at a time, often for conditions associated with prematurity, infection, respiratory distress or feeding issues. “Some of these babies have complicated deliveries requiring very specialized care in our unit,” said Wiles. Many of these are babies that are Continued on page 41

@flagstaffbusinessnews

CHOOSE E XCELLENCE IN CANCER CARE NORTHERN ARIZONA HEALTHCARE No hern Arizona Healthcare off ers the region’s most comprehensive cancer program, including an expanding group of board-ce ified medical oncologists and surgeons, along with ce ified specialists. Our care team is unmatched in the area when it comes to treating your cancer. Our commitment continues to grow in the communities we serve, like the $1.4 million we are investing for state-of-thea breast imaging resources in Sedona. When the imaging center opens in late 2022, breast imaging specialists will join our surgeons and patient navigators in Sedona to deliver comprehensive, high-quality cancer care. We are also expanding our oncology presence in Flagstaff with the addition of medical oncologist Deborah Lindquist, MD, and radiation oncologist, Stephanie Rice, MD. Choose a comprehensive Cancer Program. Choose care accepted by the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers in the ba le against cancer. Choose No hern Arizona Healthcare.

INFORMATION AND APPOINTMENTS: NAHEALTH.COM/CANCER

JUNE 2022 // Flagstaff Business News

Flagstaff Business News // JUNE 2022

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Steve Bruner and Andrew Potter pick up supplies in Phoenix for the Flagstaff office. Currently, they are looking for drivers for the moving trucks. Photo by Betsey Bruner

Helping People on the Move Join us for a fun filled summer supporting Flagstaff’s local non-profits.

Established moving company opens franchise in Flagstaff

By Betsey Bruner, FBN

he lively real estate market and lifestyle/ work environment changes resulting from the pandemic may leave some feeling like life is a deck of cards thrown into the air. For those people and anyone else needing support with relocating, Two Men and a Truck (TMT) is ready to help sort out the chaos by making moving easier. With growth and expansion occurring in the professional moving industry, a franchise operation of the moving company opened in East Flagstaff this spring. “We are expanding to meet our customers’ needs,” said Cheryl Ackley, a franchise development specialist with TMT International. “There is a need in Flagstaff to provide Two Men and a Truck services for home and business local moves, intrastate moves and interstate moves, along with packing and unpacking services. Currently, Flagstaff has a 100% referral rating from their customers in 2022. We feel this is very successful.” TMT employees, Steve Bruner, a native of Mesa, and Andrew Potter, originally from Michigan, agreed in early 2021 to be co-owners of the new Flagstaff franchise, along with Chris Willems, who had been working with Bruner at two TMT locations in the Valley, Glendale South and Tempe, where Bruner has been working as general manager at both locations. Bruner and Potter did not know each other until May of 2019 when they talked about the possibility of Potter coming out to Arizona to be an operations manager at the Phoenix stores. Potter was very receptive to the idea of relocating to work for TMT in Arizona and transferred to the state later in 2019. “He was interested in a new opportunity with advancement, because the franchise where he was had no further growth opportunities,” said Bruner, who left a two-decade career in supply chain management when he realized he wanted to start his own business. He was attracted to Two Men and a Truck

because of the company’s values. “I get the opportunity to utilize all of my past experience and to learn how to manage my own business with a team of individuals.” Bruner encourages people to use a professional mover to reduce the physical impacts on themselves and to protect their belongings. “Most people don’t realize how much money they have invested in their household items until they have to inventory and determine a total value. So, why not trust a professional mover to move household items they have invested so much in for many years?” Like Bruner, Potter also left a career. “I was looking through Indeed for something to do to earn a little extra money and thought moving would be a good way to get a workout in and also earn money while doing so,” he said. Ackley calls the two a great team. “We worked closely during the franchise process prior to opening.” She says studies show that about one-third of all franchisees start out as employees. “Movers, drivers and customer service representatives are given every opportunity to expand in their careers with Two Men and A Truck.” “I started as a mover and have worked through almost every position Two Men has to offer, up to my current position of co-owner and general manager,” said Potter. “I’ve been a mover, driver, trainer, team lead, move manager, in-home consultant, training and development manager and operations manager.” “It has been awesome working with Andrew and he has grown into being a key leader for our franchise system,” Bruner said. “In 2022, after Andrew had grown further as a leader, we were able to jump on the opportunity to expand in Northern Arizona and bring on Andrew as a co-owner and general manager of this new location.” “I love the town,” Potter said. “The first time I visited Flagstaff a few years ago, I knew I wanted to be here if we ever had the opportunity to start a location here. I’ve grown up and lived in small Continued on page 39

JUNE 2022 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

In Arizona, small business is a big deal.

The Arizona Commerce Authority offers a wide range of programming to support entrepreneurs and small business owners. Find tools to help launch, operate and scale your business with our online, interactive Small Business Checklist. View webinars in our Small Business Boot Camp to help you master everything from finances, to leadership, to business plans. If you want to improve your digital footprint, our Small Business Digital Academy offers hands-on training to help grow your presence online. Plus, we’ll connect you with fellow Arizona business leaders who can share valuable insights and growth strategies to help you find success. Whether you have questions about getting started or you’re looking for a strategic plan to take your business to the next level, we’re here to help.

azcommerce.com/small-business

Flagstaff Business News // JUNE 2022

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

2321 N. Fourth St. Flagstaff, AZ 86004 (928) 526-5691 crestins.com

Flagstaff’s Digital Employee Benefits Consultants HR Services & Solutions Customized • Online Benefits Platform • Voluntary Benefit Marketplace • New Hire On-Boarding System • On-Line Enrollment Technology • Open Enrollment Solutions

WHY CHOOSE US Attracting and retaining the best and brightest employees while effectively managing benefit costs is a must in today’s economy. Helping you meet these objectives is our specialty. We combine our exceptional knowledge and industry leading technology to serve you.

One of Arizona’s leading independent agencies Fee Based Self-Funded (ASO) Partially Self-Funded / Level Funded Industry Pools / Trusts / Captive Insurance Plans

Fully Insured (ACA) Plans Health Savings Account (HSA) Health Reimbursement Accounts (HRA)

Ed Gussio Partner Office (928) 526-5691 Mobile (928) 853-1706 Fax (928) 527-8011 egussio@crestins.com

A second co-op agreement for residential solar energy is expected to help lower the cost and make solar power more accessible. Courtesy photo

Solar Co-Op Launches for Northern Arizona Residents

he cities of Flagstaff and Sedona and Coconino County have partnered with non-profit group Solar United Neighbors (SUN) to launch the second Northern Arizona Co-op. The co-op will help residents go solar. This co-op follows the launch of the first Northern Arizona Co-op in 2021. That group reached 225 member households and is Solar United Neighbors’ most successful co-op in Arizona to date. The second Northern Arizona Co-op provides a new opportunity for residents to take advantage of the area’s plentiful sunshine. “The City of Flagstaff is making great strides to uphold our commitment to reach carbon neutrality by 2030, but we know that we can’t do it alone,” said Flagstaff Vice Mayor Miranda Sweet. “The solar co-op represents what’s possible when we work together to create solutions, collectively. I am confident that round two of the Northern Arizona Co-op will be equally, if not more, successful in bringing less expensive residential solar to the region.” The co-op is free to join and open to all homeowners and business owners in Flagstaff, Sedona and Coconino County. Together, coop members will learn about solar energy and leverage their numbers to purchase individual solar systems at a competitive price and top quality. “The City of Sedona’s Climate Action Plan sets an ambitious target of reducing community-wide emissions by 50% by the year 2030,” said City of Sedona Sustainability Manager Alicia Peck. “The Northern Arizona Solar Co-op will help us meet that goal by lowering the cost of solar for residents and business owners, ultimately making rooftop solar more accessible for our community.” After a competitive bidding process facilitated by SUN, which remains vendor neutral, coop members will select a single solar company

to complete the installations. Joining the co-op does not obligate members to purchase solar. Instead, members will have the option to individually purchase panels and electric vehicle chargers based on the installer’s group rate. Proponents say the co-op is a collaboration offering an opportunity for neighbors to come together and reap both individual and collective benefits. These include monthly bill savings, local resiliency and improvements in air quality. “We’ve wanted to install solar panels to our home for a long time. The Solar United Neighbors Co-op in 2021 was a perfect option for us,” said Kevin Brown, a member of the 2021 Northern Arizona Co-op. “The co-op provided all the education and technical support we needed to make informed decisions about our system. We’re delighted to be saving money on our electric bills and to make a positive ecological difference.” The federal tax credit for solar is expected to decrease at the end of this year. “The Northern Arizona co-op will enable homeowners and small businesses to go solar together at a competitive rate,” said Bret Fanshaw, Arizona program director for Solar United Neighbors. “We’re excited to bring another solar co-op to Northern Arizona, where we know lots and lots of people are ready to turn to the power of the sun.” SUN has hosted 10 solar co-ops in Arizona since 2019. According to the group’s estimates, the 289 homes and businesses that now have solar panels because of co-ops represent more than 2 megawatts of solar power, $6.5 million in local solar spending and more than 40,000 metric tons of lifetime carbon offsets. FBN SUN will host several free information sessions about solar energy and the co-op. For more information, visit solarunitedneighbors.org/naz2022.

@flagstaffbusinessnews

JUNE 2022 // Flagstaff Business News

One couple. Two sets of needs. Countless options for happiness.

Assisted Living and Memory Care together, in one community. When you and your spouse trade the burden of household responsibilities for an assisted living community like Highgate, you free yourself to simply enjoy each other and the things you love. Wake up each day to a spectacular view from the Mesa with a host of options before you. Our team is wholly devoted to supporting your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Guided by a unique holistic approach, we’ll help with medications and other tasks while you make new friends, eat deliciously well, and pursue your passions. As specialists in couples care, we work with families and physicians to provide the personalized care both of you need for a life of happiness.

Schedule a tour today!

Call 928-863-3902 Highgate at Flagstaff Email: Flagstaff@HighgateSeniorLiving.com Visit: HighgateSeniorLiving.com

ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE

Flagstaff Business News // JUNE 2022

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Business Woman FBN

of the Month

Jeweler Kari Rauch Designs with Nature C

By V. Ronnie Tierney, FBN

actus skeletons, rattlesnake skin and shed lizard scales may seem unusual in the context of highend jewelry, but for Sedona jeweler Kari Rauch of KD Steele Designs, they are the bedrock of her designs. Since moving to Sedona in 2005, Rauch has found her niche featuring one-of-a-kind pendants, rings, bracelets and beaded treasures. Her process both maintains and refreshes the spirit of the area, reflecting the contemporary Southwestern aesthetic. “The patterns I come across on my daily hikes speak to the natural beauty of this desert paradise,” said Rauch. “In the beginning, I made molds of interesting tree bark or patterns on rocks and then started incorporating feathers, leaves and any other objects of inspiration I found along the way.” “When the paddle of a prickly pear drops, it deteriorates into this sort of beautifully intricate husk that can be cleaned up and prepared for casting.” Thanks to her son, Steele, and his red bearded dragon, Petrie, Rauch has also been able to use naturally-shed

lizard skin in her jewelry. “I call them ‘Serpent Scales,’” she said, pointing them out in pendants and cuffs. From the Bisbee turquoise mine to the Carico Lake, Nevada mine, Rauch is very particular about her choice and source of gemstones. Many of her pieces include turquoise from the Number Eight (#8) mine in Nevada. “This gemstone is extremely rare; turquoise hasn’t been sourced from this site since the mine closed in 1976,” she explained. In addition to Southwest turquoise, Rauch frequently uses Australian Boulder Opal, Lapis Lazuli, Peridot and Blue Topaz.

Above: Bold creations by Kari Rauch often include stunning gemstones, sterling silver, Swarovski crystals and brass beads. Below: The KD Steele Designs owner has a passion for hiking Sedona trails and finds inspiration from the Southwest. Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney Fresh Focuses Photography

Rauch also specializes in seed bead bracelets crafted on a loom using fire-polished faceted Swarovski crystal beads, glass and brass beads. “The clasps are sterling silver with bezel-set matching Southwest turquoise secured with a sterling silver locking pin,” she said. “ Beading, for Rauch, is a meditative task, like a puzzle. “It is relaxing and honestly a lot of fun. I enjoy the patterns and some of my favorite designs are inspired by Native American rugs. I like the challenge of recreating their bold geometric shapes through a different medium.” Married for almost 40 years, Rauch’s interest in jewelry started through her husband’s career as an antique dealer. “He would take me to museums and auctions, and I always found myself admiring the estate jewelry. No two pieces were alike.” Enrolling in her first jewelry course in 1981 at Brookdale Community College in Lincroft, New Jersey, Rauch learned about lost wax casting and wax

carving. It was nearly two decades before Rauch’s passion for design and budding talent for jewelry making came to fruition. “After raising both of my sons, I went back to school and earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology,” she said. While Rauch was always excited about the subject matter in an intellectual sense, she never pursued psychology professionally. “I couldn’t see myself sitting around and listening to people’s problems all day. However going back to school and being exposed to new concepts, new ways of thinking, did inspire me to create.” In 2001, Rauch began making her seed bead bracelets. Through the past 20 years, she has expanded her craft, turning raw metals and gemstones into art. “Susan Herman, co-owner of Kick N’ Cast in Sedona, liked my jewelry and suggested I contact Caravana Jewelry to see if they would represent my designs,” said Rauch. “Kari’s bracelets are truly beautiful.

Some of her jewelry is large, which is trending right now. She’s done it on her own and she’s very talented,” said Herman. “Kari’s attention to detail and love for the raw materials show in every one-of-kind piece that she creates,” said Caravana co-owner Melissa Iaquilino. “The organic shapes and textures are reflective of our beautiful landscape. Her jewelry is magnificent.” The name KD Steel Designs incorporates her son’s names Kane and Dane Steele. “If I’m not out hiking, I’m in my home studio creating jewelry,” said Rauch. “ I love what I do and it’s a blessed life.” FBN KD Steele Designs can be found at www. kdsteeledesigns.com or at Caravana Jewelry in Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village in Sedona. Caravana Jewelry specializes in featuring local Arizona artists. Rauch can be contacted directly at 213-300-1875.

@flagstaffbusinessnews

JUNE 2022 // Flagstaff Business News

Every day, prepared. Wildfire preparation protects you, the community and first responders. Providing you safe, reliable energy is our top priority. That’s why we work year-round to prepare for wildfires by updating equipment, working with first responders on emergency action plans, performing visual inspections of lines before and during an outage, and managing vegetation and other potential hazards around our equipment. Power lines may be temporarily taken out of service to protect firefighters, which could result in outages that might last longer than usual. Working together, we can be prepared. Here are some things you can do: • Keep grass, weeds, trees and shrubs trimmed. Dispose of trimmings and trash properly. • Get emergency alerts through local resources and visit ein.az.gov to create an emergency preparedness plan. • Sign up for outage alerts and view our interactive outage map at aps.com/outagecenter. • Have flashlights, batteries, a portable cell phone charger and water handy. Please visit aps.com/wildfiresafety for more information.

Flagstaff Business News // JUNE 2022

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

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

Turning Dreams into Wine Ignacio Mesa realizes vision with Clear Creek Vineyard and Winery

arly morning reflections mirrored in the flourishing pond at Clear Creek Vineyard & Winery suggest a perfect terroir – a French term pertaining to a region’s climate, soil and terrain that affects the taste of the wine. With grape vines stretching across most of his 10 acres in Camp Verde, Clear Creek Vineyard & Winery Owner Ignacio Mesa has cultivated sustainable solutions for his viticulture paradise. He purchased the land in 1998. Today, he produces about 1,150 cases of red and white wines per year. Patiently and methodically, Mesa has approached his Clear Creek Vineyard & Winery with a purpose and a plan for developing a wine-growing ecosystem. Mesa’s two white Great Pyrenees dogs, Pancho and Cisco, are part of the operation. Not only do they greet guests, but they also keep coyotes and raccoons away. Frolicking between the rows of

grapevines, geese munch on weeds, chickens chomp on bugs and ducks, which have proliferated through the years, keep the pond regulated by eating the moss. Using his past insight gained through managing irrigation projects in Phoenix, Mesa built a pond, gravity fed from Clear Creek, in an area where irrigation is possible around and below it. “Four valves open so water can be released to irrigate the vineyard without electricity. This reduces the carbon footprint,” explained Mesa. “It can be costly to pump water, as it uses a lot of electricity. It is very costly to run electric powered pumps.” When he was having problems with too much moss in the pond, he was having to dredge it. But then, migratory ducks moved in and took care of the problem. “Deposits from the ducks and fish provide natural nitrogen for the vineyards. We don’t have to buy expensive chemical nitrogen fertilizers, requiring thea use of electricity, which also reduces the carbon footprint,” he said. Mesa studied engineering at

Continued on page 41

Ignacio Mesa invites guests to visit his 10-acre vineyard in Camp Verde, where he produces red and white blends. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

Healthcare With Heart Peak Heart & Vascular is a multispecialty cardiovascular group made up of board-certified physicians recognized in the community for their quality and compassionate care. KISHLAY ANAND, MD Cardiac Electrophysiology General Cardiology

NIRAV J. MEHTA, MD Interventional Cardiology

ANDY H.T. TRAN, MD Cardiac Electrophysiology General Cardiology

ROBERT S. BEAR, DO General Cardiology Preventive Cardiology

STEPHEN T. SMITH, MD Vascular Surgery

MEGAN ENGBRING, DNP, FNP-C General Cardiology

Appointments

Flagstaff Office

Additional Locations

office 928.888.9595 | main 602.641.9486

1501 S Yale St; Bldg 2 Ste 152

12361 W Bola Dr, Surprise, AZ 85378

JUNE 2022 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

Sh emaker 6.17.22

The 2022 Shoemaker Award Winner Honorary Shoemaker Award Winner

Moonshot Entrepreneur Award Winners

Mission Control Award Winner Moonshot Pioneer Pitch Winners From around the state of Arizona

*The Shoemaker Awards are Sold Out/ Invitation Only

Innovate waste & Carbon Neutrality Winner

Flagstaff Business News // JUNE 2022

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Moonwalker Harrison Schmitt to Headline Flagstaff’s Fourth of July Parade By Kevin Schindler, FBN

No stranger to Flagstaff, Schmitt lived here in the mid-1960s. After earning a Ph.D. in geology from onday, July 4 will see the Harvard University in 1964, he took return of Flagstaff’s annua job with Gene Shoemaker at the al Fourth of July parade. Astrogeology Branch of the U.S. Serving as grand marshal will be Geological Survey (USGS) in FlagMoon-walking legend Harrison staff. He helped to develop geological Schmitt, who 50 years ago became the 12th and second to last person to procedures that astronauts would eventually use to explore the Moon, walk on the Moon. but his tenure at the USGS proved Dr. Harrison “Jack” Schmitt is a trained geologist who has spent most to be short-lived; less than two years later, he was selected to be an astroof his life serving the United States naut himself, as a member of NASA’s in one capacity or another. He is first scientist-astronaut group. In fact, perhaps most famous for flying to the Moon in 1972, with Gene Cernan Schmidt said in a Flagstaff news briefing that he felt badly about leaving and Ron Evans, as part of the Apollo and talked it over with his supervisor, 17 mission. He became the only geologist - as well as the only astronaut Shoemaker, who reportedly told without a background in military avi- him he’d be crazy not to jump at the opportunity. ation - to walk on the lunar surface, As an astronaut, Schmitt returned and is one of only four moonwalkers to Northern Arizona for mission still alive. training and post-mission briefings. After leaving the astronaut corps, Schmitt served as a U.S. Senator from He retired from NASA in 1975 and has since visited Flagstaff on multiple New Mexico, an adjunct professor occasions. Despite this connection in the Department of Engineering to the community, he was surprised Physics at the University of Wisconsin, and a private consultant on topics to be asked to serve as the parade’s grand marshal. “I am very honored,” ranging from geology and space to business and public policy. Continued on page 40

DOES FOOT PAIN HAVE YOU LIVING LIFE ON A SHORT LEASH?

Retired geologist and astronaut Harrison “Jack” Schmitt was the first person initially trained as a scientist to walk on the Moon. He later served as U.S. senator from New Mexico. Courtesy photos

Quit playing the neuropathy pain game.

Do you wish you could walk farther with your furry friend? Are you being treated for neuropathy with no relief? It’s time to start asking questions…there is hope.

DISCOMFORTING PAIN MILD PAIN NO PAIN

Y / N

Does foot pain prevent you from doing your favorite activity? Do you have chronic pain from prior injury or foot surgery? Do you have burning or tingling in your legs or feet? Do you have leg or foot cramps with activity or at rest? Does your heel hurt when you get up or after sitting for a while?

If you’ve answered “yes” to any of these questions, call our office today to see how our doctors can help.

EXCRUCIATING PAIN

DISTRESSING PAIN INTENSE PAIN

YES / NO

Do you have difficulty walking without taking a break? Do you have pain, numbness, or cramping in legs or feet? Is your neuropathy treatment not working? Neuropathy symptoms are very similar to those of PAD. It’s a circulation disorder which can be easily treated in our office without the need for general anesthesia. If you’ve answered “yes” to any of the questions above, call our office today to see how our doctors can help.

(928) 719-7400 cicmedical.com

(928) 719-7400 azfeet.com Dr. Diana Perry, DPM 2301 N. 4th Street, Flagstaff, AZ 86004

DR. JOEL RAINWATER, MD / DR. KEVIN DUWE, MD / DR. DIANA PERRY, DPM 2301 N. 4th Street, Flagstaff, AZ 86004

JUNE 2022 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

Meteor Crater, Lowell Observatory Present Asteroid Day Flagstaff

eteor Crater and Lowell Observatory are teaming up to host a one-day event centered around asteroids and their impact on Earth. Asteroid Day Flagstaff is scheduled for Thursday, June 30, with scientific experts speaking on panels and other programs addressing asteroids - what they are, how scientists look for them, the nature of impacts on Earth, and how Apollo astronauts studied Meteor Crater to prepare for their voyages to the impact-scarred Moon. These scientific programs will be complemented with other family-friendly activities that include tours of both Meteor Crater and Lowell Observatory, poi performances, food trucks, local beer and nighttime telescope viewing. Meteor Crater will host daytime events from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Lowell Observatory will host evening activities from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. A special pass will be available for purchase that allows access to activities at both sites. “Lowell Observatory is excited to partner with Meteor Crater to cele-

brate Flagstaff’s first Asteroid Day,” said Chief Marketing and Financial Officer Danielle Adams, Ph.D. “Given our proximity to the world’s best-preserved meteorite impact site and the heritage of tens of thousands of asteroid discoveries at Lowell over the years, Flagstaff is the world’s best place to mark Asteroid Day.” Asteroid Day Flagstaff is one of many independently organized activities around the world supported by the United Nations-sanctioned program called Asteroid Day. It is designed to raise awareness about asteroids and their risks. Asteroid Day was founded in 2014 to recognize the dramatic asteroid that occurred June 30, 1908, and flattened 830 square miles of Siberian forest. “Right here in Northern Arizona, we can see the literal impact of asteroids on our planet,” said Meteor Crater and the Barringer Space Museum President and CEO Matt Kent. “What better place to hold an Asteroid Day event than here?” FBN For more information, visit asteroidday.org.

Meteor Crater, located 37 miles east of Flagstaff, is touted as Earth’s best preserved impact site. Courtesy photo

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

alliancebankofarizona.com One of Forbes’ Best Banks in America Year After Year

Alliance Bank of Arizona, a division of Western Alliance Bank. Member FDIC. Western Alliance Bank ranks high on the Forbes “Best Banks in America” list year after year.

It’s not just about understanding the numbers. It’s about a banker who understands your business.

Flagstaff Business News // JUNE 2022

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Honoring Flagstaff’s Comet Chaser

ore than 400 scientists, business people, educators and community leaders attended the opening reception for NightVisions: Cultural Interpretations of the Night Sky, an international juried art exhibition at Coconino Center for the Arts featuring the work of Flagstaff astronomer Carolyn Shoemaker. The exhibit combines diverse artistic interpretations of the night sky, including archival astronomical elements from Shoemaker’s work. Carolyn, her husband, Gene and astronomer David Levy made up the team that discovered and tracked the Shoemaker-Levy 9 Comet that crashed into Jupiter in July 1994. Levy was part of the NightVisions planning team and spoke at the reception. At the time of Carolyn’s death last August, she had discovered more asteroids than anyone else. Many consider her to be Flagstaff’s First Lady of Astronomy. The May exhibition opening coincided with the grand opening of CCA’s new Digital Resource & Education Center, intended to serve local non-profit organizations. NightVisions is free and open to the public through Aug. 27. A $10 donation to the gallery is encouraged from guests.

Top: NightVisions is free and open to the public through Aug. 27. Left: Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition member Kathy Eastwood, former chair of Northern Arizona’s Physics and Astronomy Department, views the Shoemaker wall. Far left: A sculpture representing the fragmented Shoemaker-Levy 9 Comet hangs from the gallery ceiling. Courtesy photos

FBN

ENGINEERING

SURVEY

ENGINEERING

SURVEY

With over 2200 units, Flagstaff Storage is Northern Arizona’s complete Storage solution Flagstaff Storage is Northern Arizona’s premiere storage brand: • Locally owned family managed for more than 25 years • 2200 units representing 350,000 sq ft on 19 acres • 4 Additional acres of Storage on Dry Lake road. • 200 outdoor RV and boat spaces coming soon • 4.9 Star Google Reviews

Y INAR IM FOR ION ING ELNOTSTRUCT ORD

CON REC OR

Y INAR IM FOR ION ING ELNOTSTRUCT ORD

We are under construction at our Flagstaff Ranch location with over 100,000 ft. and five new buildings. We will offer 500 new units of ground level climate controlled, drive up units and Indoor boat and RV units.

1425 W. Forest Meadows, Flagstaff, Arizona | www.flagstaffstorage.com | (928) 779-5066

CON REC OR

JUNE 2022 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

NACASA Community Marks Two Decades of Support for Victims

epresentatives from North Country HealthCare, Victim Witness Services for Coconino County, Navajo County Family Advocacy Center and Northern Arizona Healthcare gathered to celebrate the 20th anniversary of NACASA, Northern Arizona Care and Services After Assault. Those representing NAH were Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE). One of NACASA’s three founders, Pam Turner, R.N., was also in attendance. NACASA was created in 2002, under the roof of Victim Witness Services, to provide medical forensic exams to victims. In 2007, the crisis center was moved to North Country, and three years later, NACASA began providing exams in Navajo County, and shortly thereafter, in Apache County. In 2017, NACASA rebranded to Northern Arizona Care and Services After Assault, previously known as Northern Arizona Center for Sexual Assault. NACASA is a safe place for victims of sexual and domestic violence age 13 and older to go for help and to explore their options after an assault. FBN

Instantly borrow eBooks, audiobooks, comics, movies, and more 24/7 with your Flagstaff library card. Download the hoopla app, or visit hoopladigital.com DOWNTOWN LIBRARY 300 West Aspen Ave. Mon - Thurs 9am - 8pm, Fri 9am - 6pm Sat 9am - 5pm, Sun 9am - 1pm Call 928-213-2333

EAST FLAGSTAFF COMMUNITY LIBRARY 3000 N. Fourth Street, Suite 5 Mon - Thurs 9am - 8pm, Fri 9am - 6pm Sat 9am - 1pm, Sun 9am - 5pm Call 928-213-2348

flagstaffpubliclibrary.org

Flagstaff Business News // JUNE 2022

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

// BUSINESS CENTS // BY BONNIE STEVENS

The humuhumunukunukuapua’a is Hawaii’s official state fish. It can be found swimming around coral reefs with sea turtles and jackfish, sometimes known as “pilot fish.”Courtesy photo

Pilot Fish May Help You Make the Big Catch

FACILIT Y ID# PENDING

xperiencing the gentle, colorful tropical world under the sea off Maui’s scenic Honoapi’ilani Highway feels like you’re in a Disney mermaid movie, unless you’re snorkeling with someone who delights in taking you to places to see some really interesting creatures. Hawaii’s Sandra Romer is one such snorkeler. She can free dive to depths way beyond normal human ear pressure tolerance, doesn’t get cold or wrinkly in the ocean and can hold her breath for, like, half an hour. If you’re going to put on your flippers and be in the ocean anyway, Sandra figures, why not get close to something weird? So, after swimming past the happy clown fish, the beautiful humuhumunukunukuapua’a and the sleepy sea turtles, Romer delights in finding a pale green cauliflower-like frog fish that hop-walks on its fins, spotted eels that go on forever in their snaky, snarly way and a wall of fish the size of an IMAX screen. And sure, just when you’re getting comfortable with that massive amount of fish doing that synchronized swimming thing, you notice something bigger. . .maybe three feet long with a hefty dark presence swimming slowly, stealthily along the ocean floor with a couple of suspicious-looking buddies almost as big. Sandra called them “jackfish” and found them fascinating with their shadowy predacious essence. But I got the feeling the silvery fish in the giant school nearby were keeping an eye on them, too, especially when they slid in real close, changed up their direction and darted straight into the perfectly conforming fish. “Whoa!” I garbled loudly underwater - and then discovered how fast I could swim. I’m guessing author Kelly McDonald had the same underwater discovery, because she writes about “pilot fish” in her leadership book, “How to

Work With and Lead People Not Like You.” Turns out pilot fish are a type of jackfish that would hang around sea going vessels in the olden days. Sailors thought they would lead them to shore. In my case, they more accurately inspired me to lead the way to shore. In any case, McDonald says leaders need to get to know the workplace pilot fish because they are highly influential. “They’re opinion leaders, the ones that others look up to. They are informal ‘leaders’ because others follow them and often confide in them. They might not even know they are pilot fish, but what they say or do influences others in their sphere,” she writes. Here’s the deal about pilot fish in the workplace. They can be valuable thought leaders and may be able to clue leadership in about what others are thinking, not in a sneaky sort of way, but in a diversity-of-thought sort of way that may not be reflected at the highest levels of the organization where important decisions are made. Here’s a great example McDonald offers in her book. Do you know about Skinnygirl? If you haven’t heard of it, perhaps check in with your female pilot fish. Skinnygirl is a brand created by entrepreneur extraordinaire and “The Real Housewives of New York City” star Bethany Frankel that produces low-calorie alcoholic drinks, including wine, vodkas, margaritas and ready-to-serve cocktails. According to McDonald, Frankel pitched her idea to all the major liquor companies. “Every one of them dismissed her product. That turned out to be a bad decision. She forged ahead on her own, developed the brand, and sold more than 2 million bottles in her first year in business. Two years later, Beam, the makers of bourbon and other liquors, acquired the product and brand for an estimated $100 million! Skinnygirl sales Continued on page 40

JUNE 2022 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

Honoring Entrepreneurial Thinking, Acting

By Scott Hathcock

he City of Flagstaff and APS are presenting Moonshot’s 2nd Annual Shoemaker Awards. The invitation-only dinner and awards banquet will take place on June 17 at Little America Hotel. This annual inspirational and entertaining event celebrates stellar moonshot-thinking entrepreneurs from Flagstaff and across Arizona. The 2021-22 Moonshot AZ Pioneer Pitch winners from around the state will present their ideas/products during the cocktail reception for the final round and a chance to win $10,000 thanks to our generous sponsor, APS. This year’s tour included stops in the Verde Valley, Flagstaff, Prescott, Winslow, Globe, Payson and Show Low. Other tour sponsors include Arizona Commerce Authority and Live Plan. The Shoemaker Awards are named after Carolyn Shoemaker for her extraordinary moonshot thinking and phenomenal achievement in astrogeology. She and her husband, Gene, established

// This year’s 2022 Shoemaker Award, our highest honor, will go to Dr. Robert Kellar. He will be presented the award by previous winner, Dan Kasprzyk, founder of POBA Medical and Symple Surgical. There are many reasons to honor Dr. Robert Kellar as a founder, but it’s his serial entrepreneurship efforts creating multiple companies that provide jobs and career paths for Northern Arizona University graduates - that are especially noteworthy. //

the USGS Center for Astrogeology in Flagstaff. At one time, Carolyn Shoemaker held the record for the most comet discoveries (32), in addition to more than 800 asteroids and 377 numbered minor planets. A huge accomplishment by its own merit, but even more extraordinary given that she didn’t even start her career in astronomy until the age of 51. This year’s 2022 Shoemaker Award, our highest honor, will go to Dr. Robert Kellar. He will be presented the award by previous winner, Dan Kasprzyk, founder of POBA Medical and Symple Surgical. There are many reasons to honor Dr. Robert Kellar as a founder, but it’s his serial entrepreneurship efforts - creating multiple companies that provide jobs and career paths for Northern Arizona University graduates - that are especially noteworthy. Kenny Greene of War2In will receive the Honorary Shoemaker Award. This award is presented to a past graduate of the Moonshot at NACET campus who continues to make an impact in building the region’s economy. In addition, Rich Bowen will be presented with the Mission Control Award. This honor speaks to his history of serving as a board member, stakeholder and community champion for our non-profit. Both Katalyst Space Technologies and Grubcan will receive the Moonshot Entrepreneur Award. These awards are given to a company or companies that have gone through our program and are ones to keep an eye on for future growth. A special thanks to this year’s table sponsors: Arizona Commerce Authority, AWD Law, City of Winslow, Deckers Outdoor, DES, Elevated Manufacturing, Jennifer Nordstrom, CPA, Kinney Construction Services/Genterra, Lowell Observatory, Northern Arizona University, Poba Medical, Regional Economic Development Center (REDC), Rim Country Chamber of Commerce, Sunwest Bank, The Sonoran Founders Fund, Verde Valley Regional Economic Organization, W. L. Gore & Associates, War2In, Yavapai College and SBDC. FBN Scott Hathcock serves as the president and CEO of Moonshot (www.moonshotaz.com), a 21-yearold 501(c)3 non-profit. The mission of Moonshot is to assist both entrepreneurs in building and scaling start-ups as well as developing entrepreneurial ecosystems for economic development purposes across Arizona.

Welcome to our inspired family of professionals relentlessly pursuing excellence in our industry and life.

Adam Benton

Kyle Jones

Nicole Cumbie

Alana Bateman

Shannon Mackey

Samantha Field

Nothing Compares.

www.russ lyon.com //928.779.5966

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

Flagstaff Business News // JUNE 2022

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Educating about Teen, Adolescent Pregnancy By Hedda Fay

between the ages of 19 have declined from 17.4 per 1,000 females/pregnant people in 2018 to 16.7 females/pregn honor of National Teen Pregnancy Awareness Day, which was nant people in 2019. It’s a new record low! Birth rates among females/pregMay 6, I wanted to write about nant people ages 15-17 fell 7% and for teen pregnancy. Did you know that females/pregnant people between the teen or adolescent pregnancy is considered to be all females/pregnant ages of 18-19, birth rates fell 4%. Teen Pregnancy Numbers: people under the age of 20? At 18 and 19 they can vote, join the N By age 22, approximately 50% of teen mothers have received a high military, move out, rent an apartschool diploma. ment, etc. Years ago, we had a few N By age 22, only 30% of teen young girls at my high school who mothers have a General Education were pregnant. I recall discussing diploma. teen pregnancy with my grandmother N Only 10% of teen mothers have and she told me stories about how completed a two- or four-year they had homes for young girls who college program. got pregnant out of wedlock or that N Babies born to teen mothers have young girls were sent away to live a higher infant mortality rate. with another relative or a religious school for young women. Babies were N Babies born to teen mothers have higher incidence of juvenile incareither adopted out or put in orphanceration. ages. N Babies born to teen mothers have Today, young pregnant females/ higher rates of foster care. pregnant people may still be sent N Babies born to teen mothers have to live with other relatives. We do lower school achievement and not have the homes for these young higher high school dropout rates. mothers as we once did. Is teen What is the reason for the decline pregnancy an issue? Yes! It is still an issue that society deals with regularly. in teen pregnancies? Health evidence The good news: teen pregnancy rates suggests that more teens are learning about their sexual health and are have been dropping since 1991 in abstaining from sexual activity, and the U.S. That is correct, teen birth rates among females/pregnant people today, more teens have access to

prophylaxis and birth control than in previous years. Even with these numbers on the decline, the U.S. is still above average in comparison to other Westernized nations. What can help deter teens from becoming pregnant? You remember being a teen: it is a confusing and stressful time with hormones raging, body changes, menstruation, pheromones, etc. Remember, we are mammals; we are hard-wired to reproduce. For females, pregnancy can occur before their first menstrual period. You’ve seen the headlines about 9- and 10-year-old females

becoming pregnant. It’s not common, but unfortunately, it does still occur. What can we do here locally to help prevent teen pregnancy? It starts with education and discussing more than the birds and bees with today’s youth. With the advent of smartphones and internet accessibility, ask yourself this: would you rather today’s youth learn about sexual and reproductive health from their smartphones or a trained community educator? There are plenty of pornographic sites and “how to” sex articles that pop up on feeds when typing questions about STIs and types

// What can we do here locally to help prevent teen pregnancy? It starts with education and discussing more than the birds and bees with today’s youth. With the advent of smartphones and internet accessibility, ask yourself this: would you rather today’s youth learn about sexual and reproductive health from their smartphones or a trained community educator? //

of sex. Many of these sites show the mechanics of these acts, but not the consequences or emotional context. Remember the first time you heard the term oral sex? Be honest. You were what 9, 10, 11, 12 and had absolutely no clue what that meant. Right? When I was young, we had our parents’ trusty encyclopedias for reference, not too much on the ins and outs of oral sex. Imagine you are a teen today, who hears about a type of sex you have not seen, have no knowledge about and have decided to Google it. I just did and wow do you get a long list of responses. WebMD offers: “Oral Sex: What it is and What it Means,” Men’s Health offers: “Best Oral Sex Tips for Going Down on a Vagina” – Health.com shares “Oral Sex: What it is, How to do it and the best positions.” You see where this road is going, right? It’s been more than three decades since I was a teenager. I recall being curious and talking with friends, older siblings, etc. What would have benefitted me at that age? Some solid education, that’s what! I believe if I had a class at school or several that provided education on STIs, disease transmission, and how to say “No,” it would have helped not Continued on page 40

JUNE 2022 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

PrEP medications are safe and effective and can help prevent you from getting infected with HIV. When someone is exposed to HIV, PrEP medications can work to keep the virus from causing infection. Taking PrEP medication can stop new HIV infections and help end the HIV epidemic.

Help25% us stop the spread of HIV in EHE Yet less than

The national goal for PrEP coverage under the (Ending the HIV Epidemic) initiative is to achieve at least 50% coverage by 2030.

of the

Yavapai County.

estimated more than

1 million Americans

who could benefit from PrEP are using this important medication.

PEP PATHWAY Less than 72 hours

YES

“Are you confident in providing complete prevention services for the patient?”

YES

Call Northland Cares.

their risk when taken daily as prescribed.

Patient is engaging in risky behavior who could benefit from PrEP

Patient wants to be prescribed PrEP

“Are you confident in providing complete prevention services for the patient?”

Are you confident in providing care and follow-up services?

dramatically reduces

PrEP PATHWAY

More than 72 hours

Can you see patient today?

PrEP use among people at risk for acquiring HIV

NO YES

Help us stop the spread of HIV in Call Northland Cares or Call PEPLine (888) 488-4911 Send RX to Walgreens in Prescott Valley

Proceed with provided care.

Proceed with provided care and RX to Walgreens in Prescott Valley.

PEP PATHWAY

PrEP PATHWAY

“Are you confident in

Can you see

Prescott: 928-776-4612 Cottonwood: 928-649-0833 Faxcomplete - 928-771-1767 providing patient today? prevention services for the patient?”

Are you confident in providing care and follow-up services?

NO YES

Call Northland Cares.

YES

Patient is engaging in risky behavior who could benefit from PrEP

“Are you confident in providing complete prevention services for the patient?”

YES Proceed with provided care.

Patient wants to be prescribed PrEP

NO Refer to Northland Cares.

Thank you Quad Cities for Call Northland Cares us Best Non Profit/ Voting Proceed with or Call PEPLine provided care and Charitable Organization! (888) 488-4911

Send RX to Walgreens in Prescott Valley

Refer patient to Northland Cares for specialty care and treatment services.

If patient cannot afford PrEP, refer to Northland Cares.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST? If patients meet the requirements, all prescription Lesscovered. than 72However, hours the cost of necessary More than hours costs are 100% clinic72 visits and lab tests may vary based on patient income and insurance coverage.

YES

Proceed with quality care and treatment.

Yavapai County. YES

Refer to Northland Cares.

RX to Walgreens in Prescott Valley.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST? If patients meet the requirements, all prescription costs are 100% covered. However, the cost of necessary clinic visits and lab tests may vary based on patient income and insurance coverage.

Prescott: 928-776-4612 Cottonwood: 928-649-0833 Fax - 928-771-1767

Proceed with quality care and treatment.

If patient cannot afford PrEP, refer to Northland Cares.

NO Refer patient to Northland Cares for specialty care and treatment services.

Flagstaff Business News // JUNE 2022

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

// MAYOR’S ADDRESS // BY PAUL DEASY

Volunteers, Projects Helping to Prepare for Wildfire, Flood Season

ire season is upon us early this year, to disastrous effects. Volunteer efforts helping to clear debris and assist those impacted have seen large turnouts and I want to thank all those who are helping our neighbors through this time of struggle. The City of Flagstaff has been preparing heavily for wildfire and flood season, cutting through bureaucratic red tape to get things done quickly. Two major projects in the Sunnyside neighborhood - Killip Elementary Detention Basin and the Dortha Inlet - are on track for completion by July 1. Thus far, through our partnerships, we’ve secured more than $14 million from five government agencies to help mitigate flooding from the Museum Fire scar since October 2021. I want to thank our partners and commend our staff who’ve worked so hard to get these projects funded, designed and completed in such record time. There is lots of work still to do but plans and actions are fast in motion.

Sandbag replacement and debris clean-up events are up and running. On May 21, we hosted a debris clean-up where we went through the Spruce Wash picking up trash and plant matter that would otherwise potentially clog our drain system. It’s great to get out there and super fun to work with our community to help our neighbors, and I urge others to join us! Volunteer efforts are occurring every weekend through the City of Flagstaff and/or United Way of Northern Arizona. Please take a look for volunteer opportunities through our organizations and consider spending a few hours of your weekend with us. Recommendations for potential bonds from the Citizens’ Bond Committee will be discussed through June and will help inform our discussion on what the Flagstaff City Council will place on the ballot this November. Much of the discussion focuses on flood mitigation, our wastewater system and housing. One thing not well-known to the public is that our

wastewater plant is nearly surpassing capacity and requires substantial upgrades to handle our population. Not many of us think about what happens after we flush the toilet, but it is a large and expensive operation to ensure this basic infrastructure is sustainable, and we may be going to the voters to bond for the needed upgrades. We continue to see successes with the new C.A.R.E. team (Community Alliance Response and Engagement), a patrol unit that responds to 911 calls with a behavioral health specialist and fire department EMT. Since implementation at the end of March, hundreds of calls have been diverted to handle mental health and substance use issues in our community. We are already in discussions regarding potential expansion of the program to reduce even more calls that traditionally fell on our police department’s shoulders. Council recently annexed land for a detox facility on

the outskirts of town. I am excited to see our priorities and plans coming to fruition, as we re-envision how we approach social ills with more help and fewer handcuffs. Stay safe! FBN

19 Per year

.99

Delivered right to your mailbox.

www.flagstaff businessnews.com/subscribe INSIDE THE JANUARY

Land Purchase Eyed for Economic Development p. 3

p. 7 Community Profile: Geri Hongeva Promotes Navajo Language through Star Wars p. 13

Scientists Helping Reforestation Efforts in Panama p. 6

Knees

2020 ISSUE:

Forest Health Hero Wally Covington Retires from NAU

Local Veterans Feeling Support from Nation of Patriots p. 4

New Year, New

Doctors and therapists at Rehabilitation Northern Arizona want patients back Hospital of on their feet By V. Ronnie Tierney, FBN

fter 400 backcountry hikes into the Grand Canyon, trips down the Colorado 100 River and scores of worldwide excursions spanning a 44-year career, it was no surprise to 65-year-old geologist Wayne Ranney knees began to bother when his him. “I went to the doctor, tried a couple treatments and when they didn’t

he said with a laugh. level of care,” said “The rooms were Dr. fantastic, private work, the doctors and I can’t say enough physician and medical Richard Holt, said I would be about the director. a good candidate Complete with 24/7 for bilateral replace- staff. They were very attentive, ment – that is double caring and professional. coverage, an on-site physician knee surgery pharmacy – so I agreed,” said hugs were all around.” When I left, with three full-time Ranney. “The pharmacists, surgery went well nursing and patient With a staff of 120, and care technicians, the Rehabilionly took two hours.” surprisingly tation Hospital of Northern Arizona full-time occupational, speech and opened in February A big boost for physical therapy, Ranney in his Holt said, “There 2018. The post-op recovery is 40-bed facility is nothing like us in was the care he the only rehabilNorthern Arizona received at the Rehabilitation itation care facility and now patients in Northern can stay in the Hospital of Northern Arizona and is a Arizona. “I spent joint-commissioned community that is close to their 12 days in recovery accredited hospital. homes and families there, which I “Before we and get worldbelieve helped to opened here, patients class rehabilitation save my marriage,” care.” would have to travel literally hours Ranney says the food is great, to get this type/ Continued on

PHX & LAX

8 FLIGHTS A DAY 7 DAYS A WEEK Please consider being dropped off as parking is limited.

Game On: ‘Flagsta Local’ Rewards ff Shopping, Helping , Giving Players

Mountain Sports Owner Lisa Lamberson make a difference says the Flagstaff in the community. Local movement “When dollars are Lamberson, shown brings spent locally, businesses awareness to actions that here with Mountain Patagonia to grant Sports General Manager have more to give $10,000 to the Azulita back.” Britni Montague, program promotes reducing single-use Project, represented by Maria Campbell recently partnered with plastics, like plastic straws, in Flagstaff’s and James Q. Martin. The service industry. January Courtesy photo

2020 | Issue 1 Volume

earn points and a chance at prizes for ‘actions that matter;’ businesses have more to give back

By Bonnie Stevens, FBN game thought up by the Economic Vitality t is like Jumanji Diviwithout killer ostriches. Flagstaff the sion and Discover Flagstaff Local is a community-wide tourism folks at the City Flagstaff, and everybody of wins.

Paul Deasy is the mayor of Flagstaff.

It involves deeds that benefit the greater good and earn players points. Flagstaff Local is similar to some video games in which the better you do, the better your health, except in this case, the better the health of the community. Mountain Sports Flagstaff Continued on

page 30

INSIDE THE FEBRUARY

Flagstaff Shines on Signs p. 4

Neighborhood Barbershop Expanding p. 5 Barrett-Jackson

Harnessing the

State’s largest wind farm to produce jobs and millions electricity, in economic impact to region

These statements and views are solely my own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Flagstaff City Council.

page 33

By Bonnie Stevens,

FBN

rizona’s largest wind energy project, the Chevelon Butte Wind Farm, is expected to have turbine blades spinning in a remote area south of Winslow by the end of 2021, and power the region with an estimated $8 million in indirect economic benefits during the construction phase.

Gleams with Car Show Tradition p. 11

2020 ISSUE:

Community Profile: Scotty McPeak Promotes Olive Oil, Healthy Living p. 13 Lowell, ERAU Share Cosmic Forces p. 16

Wind

customers by 2050. “We’re pretty excited. “We This project sPower are super excited,” said fits with our vision Senior Permitting and comprehenManager sive plan to look sPower, a Salt Lake Terrance Unrein. at renewable energy “This is the right City-based renewable energy sources,” said Coconino project for Arizona developer, received and County unanimous approval Supervisor Matt and Navajo counties’ for Coconino Ryan. to move forward communities at on the project from the right time, especially At full build-out, both Coconino the wind farm with the coal and Navajo counties is expected to be plant closures. Wind two or three times and energy is a great Corporation Commission,the Arizona larger than any opportunity for other operating our future and I which wind this is one think company officials energy project in of the best projects say is a rare feat the state, with 164 we’re for any wind farm, turbines spread ever going to see across 42,000 acres much less one of in the area, given its this size. This came and generating 477 incredibly remote just weeks before and windy location, megawatts, the APS announced equivalent of enough proximity to viable its goal transmission infraelectricity to 100% clean, carbon-free to deliver power a structure, and planned electricity to people. community of about 150,000 lack to threatened or endangeredof impacts species.” Continued on

PHX & LAX

8 FLIGHTS A DAY 7 DAYS A WEEK Please consider being dropped off as parking is limited.

page 41

CCC C-LAB Opens for Students to Gain Hands-O n Skills

Upgraded construction technology shop made possible Foundation grant with Del E. Webb By Larry Hendricks,

Del E. Webb Foundation President John B. the $1 million in Lees shows off grant funding the a hammer he received college received Street campus. in gratitude from to help with the Courtesy photo CCC for remodel of the C-LAB on the Fourth

February 2020

| Issue 2 Volume

FBN

oconino Community College alumnus William Gonzales stood in the space with a smile on his face.

He ran his hand along the workstation, felt the sawdust.

The Coconino Community College C-LAB for Construction Technology Management students has officially opened for students. More The smell of newness than filled people were on hand 50 the shop. Metal surfaces, once for the late-January dull, gleamed. Tools, ready for celebration. ribbon-cutting use, lined walls. The newly refurbished shop was “This is just so amazing,” made possible with the help of Gonzales said, glancing a $1 million grant from the Del around. “I wish E. Webb it looked like Foundation. this when I started taking Among those in classes.” attendance Continued on

page 38

JUNE 2022 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

Maintaining the Sounds of Summer

Jeff Lane, Au.D.

s the temperatures increase and the days stretch out, it is clear that summer is upon us. For most, this means spending more time outside, near water or traveling. It also means increased considerations when it comes to caring for hearing aids. Fortunately, hearing aids are built with these considerations in mind.

MOISTURE

Hearing aids are essentially tiny computers. Thus, the internal electrical components are susceptible to damage from moisture. While most hearing aids are not considered to be fully waterproof, they are highly water resistant. In fact, they have an

IP rating of 68. The IP scale refers to an object’s resistance to penetration by solid objects and liquid. The second number refers to liquids, with 8 being the maximum resistance. Thus, most hearing aids are able to hold up well against rain, sweat and humidity. So, for most people, as long as they are being mindful, moisture should not be too much of a concern, even during the summer months. However, there are special situations. If you live in a humid environment, or in a place where temperatures get especially high (as I experienced growing up in Phoenix), the aids are going to be constantly subjected to moisture in the form of sweat or condensation. Thus, the risk of water sneaking its way inside the casing increases. In these situations,

// Newer hearing aids are being developed with health and fitness in mind. Some models are able to track step count, while others can even go as far as monitoring your heart rate. This is still a new frontier, but one that is quickly expanding. //

a dehumidifier is very useful. It wicks out the moisture when the user is not wearing them. Rechargeable hearing aids actually have a dehumidifier built into the charger. You would just need to add the desiccant, which can be found in most stores. For those with regular batteries, a standalone dehumidifier may be purchased. They can be electronic or manual, and are quite affordable. Now, what about those who want to hit the pool or lake to cool off? Again, most hearing aids are not recommended for these types of activities, as they would be submerged. But not being able to hear in these environments isn’t ideal either. Fortunately, for those looking to try hearing aids or upgrade their current set, Phonak has just released the Audeo Life, which is truly waterproof! You can wear it in all types of moisture, including being submerged up to one and a half feet. Beat the heat while still being connected to the world around you.

TRAVEL

According to estimates, 82% of Americans took part in some form of travel last summer. Hearing aids can help patients enjoy their trip to the fullest. Fortunately, hearing aid

chargers are compact, making for easy transport. Most charger cords are USB cables, meaning they can be plugged into a port if an outlet is not readily available. In some cases, you might not even need to plug in the charger. Phonak has an external battery, called a power pack, which can be attached to the bottom of the charger case. Oticon has a separate smart charger, which is designed specifically for travel. Both of these options allow a patient to charge their hearing aids for a week without the need for an outlet. This can be convenient in situations such as camping, when electricity may not be readily available. One risk of summer travel is losing a hearing aid. Some manufacturers, such as Oticon, have a feature on their app called Find My Hearing Aid. If you were to get home and realize you had misplaced one, you could open the app and it would tell you the general location of where it was left. Note that this is not a universal feature among all manufacturers. Also keep in mind that all hearing aids come with a multi-year warranty. If you lose your hearing aid and are unable to find it, the manufacturer

will replace it one time for a small restocking fee. You will need to contact your audiologist to do so.

FITNESS

Summer is a wonderful time to take evening walks or exercise outdoors. Newer hearing aids are being developed with health and fitness in mind. Some models are able to track step count, while others can even go as far as monitoring your heart rate. This is still a new frontier, but one that is quickly expanding. Most hearing aids also have Bluetooth built directly into them, allowing you to make calls, or listen to music or podcasts while exercising. And it can all be done in one package, eliminating the need for too many accessories on the body. As always, your audiologist will be able to guide you toward the model that best suits your needs. FBN Trinity Hearing Center is located at 1330 N. Rim Dr., Suite B in Flagstaff. For more information, visit the website at TrinityHearing. net. Jeff Lane is a doctor of audiology with a passion for improving the lives of others. Dr. Lane may be reached at 928-522-0500 or at audio@trinityhearing.net.

Flagstaff Business News // JUNE 2022

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Get in at the foot of the wave for RV and luxury boat storage. The surge of RV sales has led to unprecedented demand for luxury storage. ROI is strong with building costs at one-third of mini-storage facilities.

EXECUTIVE WORKSHOP

Own l Invest l Operate July 29 ∙ 8am-6pm ∙ Orlando, Fl Limited Seating – Reserve Now Education Topics } Feasibility } Development } Security & Technology } RV Storage Software

} Legal Review } Ancillary Revenue } Operations } Facility Tour

Make plans to attend and get step-by-step advice on this new equity class opportunity.

To register, go to: toystoragenation.com

Back2Basics Outdoor Adventure Recovery incorporates the environment to help young men change habits and create a sober lifestyle. Courtesy photo

Why Relapse Doesn’t Mean You Failed in Recovery

By Roy DuPrez

or many people working on their sobriety, relapse is part of the process. At the time of a relapse, it will feel like a failure, but it doesn’t have to be. Many people who experience a relapse will come back and maintain continuous sobriety for months and years to come. Like everything else that goes into recovery, it is about having the right tools to overcome setbacks.

CHANGE YOUR MINDSET ABOUT RELAPSE

Addiction relies on guilt, self-loathing and shame to keep a grip on your life. Relapse works the same way. If you tell yourself you can’t overcome your addiction or if you are sure you are going to relapse, those thoughts make you vulnerable to your addiction. When a relapse occurs, this way of thinking makes you believe you were right and think of yourself as having failed. You need to think about relapse differently than just failing. Between 40% and 60% of people in recovery for a year will relapse, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. That statement may make you feel like you can’t stay sober. At least until you realize that the relapse rate of drug and alcohol addiction is similar for other recurring diseases like asthma, hypertension, and some cancers. You wouldn’t blame someone if their asthma or cancer came back. You would help them and empathize with them as much as you could. Addiction has a stigma surrounding it from years of misunderstanding. However, you need to realize that it is a chronic disease and must be treated like one. This means you need to continue seeking treatment after a relapse to get the disease under control again.

DEALING WITH RELAPSE

Suffering a relapse in your recovery doesn’t mean you have failed. It’s a normal part of the

recovery process for many people. Relapsing means you must reevaluate your treatment with your doctor or counselor and try another treatment method if necessary. If you suffer a relapse, don’t isolate yourself and feel that you don’t deserve support and care. All a relapse means is that you need more support and an approach to treatment that works for your situation. If you suffer a relapse, reach out for help immediately to help get your disease under control.

BUILD A NEW LIFE

Recovery involves changing past habits and creating a sober lifestyle. It is understandable that relapses may occur during the process of building a new life. Changing your lifestyle is the first step in recovery. This involves avoiding places you used to take drugs as well as people you used to do drugs with. Addicts must change unhealthy thought processes associated with substance abuse to have a chance at recovery. Change is always difficult, and there may be more than one relapse during the recovery process. It is possible to lead a sober lifestyle with support from family, friends and counselors. Peer support specialists are also a benefit for many people trying to build a new sober life. Remember, relapse doesn’t mean you have failed in your sobriety. If you have experienced a relapse or even feel you are on the verge of one, reach out to your doctor or counselor to find the best alternative treatment for you. Altering your treatment can be the best way to get you back on track in your recovery. FBN Roy DuPrez is the CEO and Founder of Back2Basics Outdoor Adventure Recovery in Flagstaff, Arizona. DuPrez received his B.S. and M.Ed. from Northern Arizona University. Back2Basics helps young men 18 to 35 recover from addiction to drugs and alcohol.

r u o y t i m Sub tion Good Business a c i l p p a Requires Good People. today ! SPONSORED BY FLAGSTAFFCITYCAREERS.COM

JUNE 2022 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

Employees of this classification perform professionallevel Purchasing Management including, monitoring, implementing, evaluating, and assuring compliance with established City Charter requirements, City Procurement Codes, local, State, and Federal procurement rules and regulations and other applicable policies and procedures. The Purchasing Manager will assist the Purchasing Director in the implementation of process improvement initiatives within the Purchasing Section and work closely and collaboratively with the Grants and Contract Manager to help optimize efficient and timely procurement involving grant funds and contract management process in order to support the organization’s evolving needs.

Under the supervision of the Community Investment Director, as part of the Economic Vitality Division, this position performs responsible program management duties associated with the day-to-day operations of the city's Beautification and Arts and Sciences Programs. Program management includes internal and external leadership; supervision; development and responsibility for the program's budget; acting as liaison to the Beautification and Public Arts Commission, project management, contract management, program outreach, and education.

flagstaffcitycareers.com

COOL CAREERS. COOL PEOPLE. COOL MOUNTAINS.

Assistant City Prosecutor

State retirement and comprehensive health insurance package available.

COOL CAREERS. COOL PEOPLE. COOL MOUNTAINS.

Native Americans for Community Action, Inc. is a Flagstaff Community 501(c)(3) Non-Profit organization dedicated to providing preventative wellness strategies while empowering and advocating for Native Americans and others in need across Northern Arizona. Patient Services Coordinator Psychotherapist Human Resources Technician Patient Benefits Coordinator Chief Financial Officer Board of Directors Community Development Director

flagstaffcitycareers.com

COOL CAREERS. COOL PEOPLE. COOL MOUNTAINS. • Customer Service Associate/Cashier PT, shifts vary - weekends and evenings

Applications can be filled out by visiting our Careers page at www.nacainc.org. Submit your completed application and required documents by emailing Cynthia Little, HR, at clittle@nacainc.org

Equipment Operator and Labor Foreman Flagstaff, AZ

• Hunting Sales Associate - PT, shifts vary - weekdays, weekends and evenings

Sportsman’s Warehouse if hiring for the following Flagstaff positions:

flagstaffcitycareers.com

Seeking an exciting, rewarding, and challenging career path? Join the NACA Inc. Team!

Prepares and properly represents the city/state in misdemeanor trials. Must exercise a significant degree of independence, initiative, and professional expertise in the day-to-day prosecution of misdemeanor cases before the Flagstaff Municipal Court and the research functions of criminal law. An important aspect of this position is preparing and properly representing the city/state in misdemeanor trials. State retirement and comprehensive health insurance package available.

Receive 50% Off your hiring ad as a courtesy sponsorship with the City of Flagstaff

Purchasing Manager

Beautification Arts and Sciences Manager

State retirement and comprehensive health insurance package available.

BC Contracting has two exciting opportunities available. We are seeking an experienced Equipment Operator and an experienced Labor Foreman to join our team.These are great opportunities to join a growing company that offers competitive pay, a team-oriented atmosphere, and excellent benefits. BC Contracting is a full-service general contractor specializing in commercial, multi-family and mixed-use construction and development.

• Clothing Sales Associate - PT, shifts vary - weekdays, weekends and evenings mornings 6am-11am • Camping Sales Associate - PT, shifts vary - weekdays, weekends and evenings Contact Jenni Rigo at jrigo@sportsmans. com or call 928-526-2300 to apply.

Flagstaff Business News/Quad Cities Business News is seeking a Print/Digital Media Account Executive to add to the team. Responsible for establishing new accounts through telephone, in person meetings and local events. This remote position offers a flexible schedule and untapped commission potential. Prior media experience is preferred, but for the right candidate willing to train. Submit resume to amy@flagstaffbusinessnews.com or call 602-909-3910

To apply go to www.bccontractingco.com.

1750 South Woodlands Village Blvd #100 Flagstaff, AZ 86001 928.635.7260

We’re Hiring!

• New Account Representative

• Senior Credit Analyst

• Appraiser

• Commercial Loan Processor

Go to foothillsbank.com/about/careers for more information! We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and qualified applicants or employees will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, mental or physical disability, age, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other category protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.

Workforce recruitment in this special section is made possible for Flagstaff businesses at a 50% reduced rate as a result of a City of Flagstaff sponsorship. Please contact FBN: Amy@Flagstaffbusinessnews.com or 602-909-3910 for more information.

Flagstaff Business News // JUNE 2022

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Arizona Military Dog Trainer Continues Tradition By Rebecca West

the same time, there were the United States Marine Corps’ “Devil Dog” War nimals have played a significant Dog Platoons, which served in the Pacific. Made up predominantly of role in military campaigns for Dobermans, the Devil Dogs trained for thousands of years. Horses military service first in Cuba and then and dogs, in particular, have marched at the Marine War Dog Detachment across continents with their masters Training School at Camp Lejeune, and handlers as support and, at times, North Carolina. They were joined there as fellow warriors. by a boxer named Fritz, reportedly the Ancient authors such as Pliny the very first dog sworn and signed into the Elder have written about a number Marine Corp. They acted as messenof breeds used by the Roman Army gers, sentries and scouts and would during the empire’s expansion and eventually include German shepherds, the various roles the animals played. Among the favorites for sheer strength labs and other breeds. Beginning their service as privates, after five years they and size were the Cane Corso and could work their way up to a Master the Molossian, a likely ancestor of the Gunner Sergeant, eventually outrankNeapolitan Mastiff. ing their handlers. During Julius Caesar’s invasion In the 1960s, U.S. soldiers continf Britain in 55 BCE, he was met with opposition from Celtic warriors accom- ued to work with Dobermans and shepherds in Vietnam. While their panied by their own fearsome canines. In Medieval times it wasn’t unusual for roles throughout history have been varied, canines have traditionally been dogs to accompany knights on yearsconsidered too valuable to send into long religious crusades. Fast-forward to the early 20th centu- battle. Because of this, they’ve come in ry, and a Belgian Malinois named Taki all shapes and sizes. There was even a four-pound Yorkie named Smoky that would become the first dog to be used aided troops in WWII and later became as a messenger in World War I. Another notable canine during the period the world’s first therapy dog on record. For the most part, the work of military was Sergeant Stubby (1916-1926), the unofficial mascot of the 102nd Infantry dogs has included guarding, detaining Regiment assigned to the 26th (Yankee) and detection. Military dog trainer Josh Reid carries Division. He served for 18 months on the tradition. Tech Sgt. Reid is and participated in 17 battles on the Western Front. He’s said to have saved stationed at Davis-Monthan Air Force his regiment from mustard gas attacks, Base in Tucson. As part of the 355th SFS, his love of dogs and the desire to located and comforted the wounded work with them has been a lifelong and allegedly caught a German soldier by the seat of his uniform and held him journey beginning with a canine demonstration he witnessed as a kid at until American GIs arrived. Stubby’s the Selfridge Air National Guard Base been called the most decorated war in Michigan. Originally from Clinton dog of WWI and the only dog to be Township, he joined the Air Force nominated and promoted to serin August 2007. In addition to three geant through combat. He played overseas tours, he’s been stationed in such a notable role in history that his Colorado, Ohio, and North Carolina remains are in the Smithsonian today. In World War II, Belgian sheepdogs before eventually coming to Arizona. During his 14 years in the Armed were again used as message carriers, Forces, 10 have been spent with Red Cross dogs and defense dogs. At

After receiving obedience, detection and patrol training, Military Working Dogs are paired with a handler to become a team, like this one with Tech Sgt. Josh Reid and OOtter. Photo by Candice Eaton

canines. Reid started out as a handler before moving up to the position of trainer and then on to becoming a Kennel Master. His work with Military Working Dogs (MWD) centers around teaching the animals a technique known as Bite and Hold, in which canines latch onto a subject until a handler can apply cuffs. MWDs are not trained to kill. Rather, they are taught to bite specific parts of the body, such as the chest, back, arms or legs of the individual they are to detain until they are ordered to release. A proper bite consists of all four canine teeth making contact. The move is known as a full-mouth bite, and it’s extremely effective for incapacitating fleeing suspects or potential threats. In order to elicit this response, mil-

itary decoys are deployed in protective gear to ensure no harm comes to them and the dogs are praised for the level of accuracy they achieve in the obedience yard. But first, there’s a dog boot camp at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, Texas, where initial training occurs. TSgt. Reid says that the animals can “wash out,” if they don’t meet the criteria for the program. It’s the same with all service-dog training. Not all dogs are suited to particular tasks, but it doesn’t mean they can’t perform well in other, equally important, roles. In Reid’s work as a senior MWD trainer, the dogs are trained and certified for single and dual purposes. Those consist of detection and patrol. With detection, the dogs are searching for explosives or narcotics. Both groups are

taught the Bite and Hold maneuver by Reid and his decoy helpers. Last year, Reid competed in the Arizona Law Enforcement Canine Association’s annual Desert Dog Trials in Scottsdale. “The purpose of the gathering was to bring together the best law enforcement canine programs in order to share experience, develop tactics and advance their training.” He also added that there’s the aspect of friendly competition between the teams to see who the best dogs in Arizona are. With training and competition, air personnel from the 355th Security Forces Squadron MWD team are able to enhance the ability to defend the base and ensure the safety of all service members on the installation. FBN

JUNE 2022 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

Sustainable Gardening: Good for You and the Environment By Misti Warner-Andersen

ore and more homeowners are working to achieve sustainability in their gardens, wanting to create outdoor spaces that are not only beautiful, but also work with nature and are ecologically sound. It turns out these practices are beneficial for your wallet as well, because sustainable gardening involves elements of recycling, using up fewer natural resources and making sure that nothing goes to waste. It starts with picking the right plants. Select plants that are well suited to your area, keeping in mind climate, sun exposure and the amount of rainfall the area gets. Fortunately, there are many varieties of native and naturalized plants that thrive in the region, and the experts at Warner’s Nursery can help you match the right plant and your garden’s environment. Picking the right plant also means less fertilizer and water will be needed to keep it thriving. Additionally, you need to consider plants that are disease- and insectresistant. This will lessen the need

to be dependent on artificial insecticides or fungicides. Potentilla and Russian Sage are great examples of plants that have both beauty and resistance on their side. When you pick your plants, give a thought to the insects that visit your garden, particularly the pollinators like bees, which need your garden for their fuel. Try planting in clusters, which makes it easier for them to feed without needlessly wasting their energy reserves, and choose a variety of plants that will bloom in rotation throughout the growing season. For example, you could have crocus and wild lilacs in spring; snapdragons and foxglove in the summer; and zinnias and asters in the fall. Beyond the plants you choose, you can also help the planet by the way you choose to fertilize and water your garden. One way to be water-wise is to invest in drip irrigation. Drip irrigation has several advantages over hand-wa-

tering, sprinklers and other watering methods as a conservation method because it puts the water exactly where it is needed. It also delivers water at a rate that the soil can absorb it; often hand-watering and sprinklers shoot out water too fast, meaning it is lost to runoff or evaporation. Finally, drip irrigation helps prevent

disease, as much of the diseases that plague garden plants are caused by excess moisture on leaves. The other way to be water-wise is to take advantage of what nature already offers us – free water in the form of rain. Monsoon season is coming up, and for the cost of a rain barrel and a regulator, you can capture that rain and use it to water your garden. Not only is rainwater better for your plants, it also helps eliminate runoff that will eventually wash silt and pollutants into the local watershed. One of the best ways to feed your garden is also environmentally responsible – by composting. Storing organic material such as food waste, leaves, grass, twigs and lawn clippings in a bin where they can decompose and then be added to your garden as a soil amendment will help feed and naturally protect your plants. Adding composted material to your soil helps

to increase drainage and support microorganisms that are beneficial to your garden. Doing so also reduces the amount of waste that winds up in our local dumps. Finally, you can show your commitment to the ecology by doing some of the most humble work in gardening – weeding and keeping debris out of your yard. Fire season seems to start earlier and earlier each year as we saw with the Tunnel Fire this past April. Maintaining your yard and getting rid of green waste is fire-wise and helps reduce the fuels fires feed on. Our experts at Warner’s Nursery are available if you have any questions on how to make your garden more ecologically sound. We’d be happy to discuss this or any other tips for sustainable living in your garden or landscape. Happy gardening! FBN Misti Warner-Andersen is the manager of Warner’s Nursery & Landscape Co., located at 1101 E. Butler Ave. in Flagstaff. To contact Warner’s Nursery, call 928-774-1983.

Graduating Class of 2022 High Schools in Coconino County

Attend CCC for

FREE

Amber Belt, ND

a Naturopathic Physician focusing on Naturopathic medicine Long haulers Chronic illness Gastrointestinal issues Prolotherapy/PRP

this summer!

*Must be graduating 2022 high school senior in Coconino County

MONDAY, JUNE 6TH  THURSDAY, JULY 28TH

Community rong!

www.coconino.edu | 1-800-350-7122

Scan for more information

Flagstaff’s Most Experienced Naturopathic Physicians. Schedule your appointment by calling 928.213.5828 or by visiting www.aspenmedcenter.com

WWW.ASPENMEDCENTER.COM | 928.213.5828

Flagstaff Business News // JUNE 2022

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Chronic Wounds Reaching Unprecedented Level higher risk of dying within five years than with some cancers.” A wound can be anything from a scrape that never really heals to he rate of non-healing sores in America is alarming. According an open sore that slowly gets larger. “It’s a spot on your leg or foot that to the National Institutes of just doesn’t get better and over time Health, more than 6 million people may get worse, but never better,” in the U.S. are affected by slow or explained Perry. non-healing wounds. “People don’t Diabetes, neuropathy, obesity or understand how important it is to pay poor circulation can play a role in attention to a sore that doesn’t get better. Without proper care, a chron- how a wound occurs and how the body reacts. “In many cases, patients ic wound can lead to an amputation with diabetes have some loss of or even death,” warned Dr. Diana Perry, CIC Foot & Ankle in Flagstaff. feeling in their feet, meaning they don’t feel pain,” explained Perry. “For “If you have an amputation due to those patients, something as small as a non-healing wound, you have a

By Reisha Zang

// “It’s your blood that carries nutrients and oxygen throughout your body. If your blood isn’t flowing to your feet, they’re not getting what they need to start the healing process.” It’s important to have good blood flow to the area because sores and wounds have difficulty healing when there isn’t enough blood supply. //

a pebble in a shoe can create a sore that they don’t notice, or a blister can turn into a wound before they realize it.” She advises they check their feet daily and actually look to see if there are any changes on their feet. Once identified, it’s important to start treatment. “We can’t wait to see if it will get better on its own,” cautioned Perry. “Time is tissue. That means the longer you wait, the greater your chance for losing a toe, foot or leg.” The main reason sores don’t heal is because there is a decrease in the amount of oxygen and nutrients in the area, both of which are needed start the healing process. “One of the first things we do is check your circulation,” said Perry. “It’s your blood that carries nutrients and oxygen throughout your body. If your blood isn’t flowing to your feet, they’re not getting what they need to start the healing process.” It’s important to have good blood flow to the area because sores and wounds have difficulty healing when there isn’t enough blood supply. Peripheral artery disease (PAD) could be the reason for poor circulation. PAD occurs when there is a buildup of plaque in the arteries, limiting the amount

of blood that passes through them. Interventional radiologists are trained to treat PAD. “The good news about PAD is that there’s hope. There is treatment and it’s excellent,” explained Dr. Joel Rainwater, M.D., an interventional radiologist and chief medical officer of CIC. Lifestyle changes, medication and treatment can help prevent PAD from progressing to dangerous consequences. Rainwater advised, “The earlier the condition is identified, the better your opportunity for preventing it from getting worse.” Because there are many different processes involved with wound healing, the best opportunity for success is with a team approach. “I need to work with the patient, their primary care physician, a wound care specialist and sometimes an interventional radiologist who treats PAD. We all have a role in helping a wound heal.” FBN

19 Per year

.99

Delivered right to your mailbox.

www.flagstaff businessnews.com/subscribe INSIDE THE JANUARY

Land Purchase Eyed for Economic Development p. 3

FBN

2020 | Issue 1 Volume

8 FLIGHTS A DAY 7 DAYS A WEEK Please consider being dropped off as parking is limited.

page 33

earn points and a chance at prizes for ‘actions that matter;’ businesses have more to give back

page 30

INSIDE THE FEBRUARY

Flagstaff Shines on Signs p. 4

Neighborhood Barbershop Expanding p. 5 Barrett-Jackson

Harnessing the

State’s largest wind farm to produce jobs and millions electricity, in economic impact to region

By Bonnie Stevens,

FBN

Gleams with Car Show Tradition p. 11

2020 ISSUE:

Community Profile: Scotty McPeak Promotes Olive Oil, Healthy Living p. 13 Lowell, ERAU Share Cosmic Forces p. 16

Wind

Reisha Zang is director of communication at CiC. You may contact her at 928-719-7400 or reisha.zang@ciccenters.com.

PHX & LAX

Game On: ‘Flagsta Local’ Rewards ff Shopping, Helping , Giving Players

Dr. Diana Perry, DPM, specializes in limb preservation and trauma of the foot. She can be reached at CiC 928-7197400.

p. 7 Community Profile: Geri Hongeva Promotes Navajo Language through Star Wars p. 13

Scientists Helping Reforestation Efforts in Panama p. 6

Knees

2020 ISSUE:

Forest Health Hero Wally Covington Retires from NAU

Local Veterans Feeling Support from Nation of Patriots p. 4

New Year, New

Doctors and therapists at Rehabilitation Northern Arizona want patients back Hospital of on their feet By V. Ronnie Tierney,

PHX & LAX

8 FLIGHTS A DAY 7 DAYS A WEEK Please consider being dropped off as parking is limited.

page 41

CCC C-LAB Opens for Students to Gain Hands-O n Skills

Upgraded construction technology shop made possible Foundation grant with Del E. Webb By Larry Hendricks,

February 2020

| Issue 2 Volume

FBN

oconino Community College alumnus William Gonzales stood in the space with a smile on his face.

He ran his hand along the workstation, felt the sawdust.

page 38

Full-service Landscape Design Installation & Maintenance

Agassiz Landscape Group, LLC

ROC #172423

COMPLETE KITCHEN TRANSFORMATIONS 1 DAY WOOD RESTORATION • CABINET REFACING NEW CABINETS + DESIGN • ORGANIZERS & MORE

Andy & Laura Leigh Mathis

Local Owners ROC# 303301

@KTUFlagstaffAZ

kitchentuneup.com

928-707-0315

Locally owned & operated. Financing available. Free in-home estimates.

Call for a free estimate (928) 525-0300 Paver Patios & Walks Outdoor Kitchens & BBQs Landscape Lighting Retaining Walls Grading & Drainage Water Features Garden & Irrigation Design Master Plans Yard Clean-ups Grounds Maintenance

Imagine the Possibilities! www.ALGflag.com

JUNE 2022 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

Summer Brings Programs, Activities, Crafts, Missions to the Library By Richard Tutwiler

e are back! The Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library has reopened to full-service hours after two years of limited or curbside-only service. It has been a long road back toward normalcy, but we are so thrilled and excited to again be providing the most comprehensive services possible for our community. The library staff has begun preparing the upcoming Summer Reading Challenge, which includes both indoor, online and outdoor options for the community. Meeting rooms are once again available for members of the public

to reserve, and for library staff to host programs and events in. The library provides services in as many ways as we can to ensure as many options as possible for individuals who have varying levels of comfort with in-person and close distance interactions. For those of you who have not been to the library lately because of the pandemic, you may notice both the Downtown and East Flagstaff Community Library will look a little different. As part of a drive to make the libraries compliant with Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines, the East Flagstaff Community Library location has received an interior facelift, including contemporary

// Recently, we have rolled out novel items for circulation: a combination of a mobile hot-spot and a Chromebook. With a county as big and diverse as Coconino, the ability to provide Internet and computer access service from anywhere has been a goal of the library for some time. //

Acupuncture Hormone Therapy Skin Tightening Injectables Now open in Flagstaff and seeing new patients.

Call or book your appointment online.

(928) 863-6086 thevitalitydoctor.com 7255 Yancey Lane, Flagstaff, Arizona 86004

furniture with built-in charging ports, an updated array of computer tables to provide more legroom, and additional displays for library materials. The Downtown library is in the final stages of planning for a complete renovation of the front-entry to add gently sloping ramps to the library entrance with an art component alongside and a new patio area for community members to enjoy. This project will impact library accessibility and services during the summer months but will be a net positive for supporting all members of our community. Rest assured that we have still been hard at work developing new and exciting services for the public during quarantine. Recently, we have rolled out novel items for circulation: a combination of a mobile hot-spot and a Chromebook. With a county as big and diverse as Coconino, the ability to provide Internet and computer access service from anywhere has been a goal of the library for some time. This combination item is some of the first items to be circulated to the Northern Arizona community as a part of our new “Library of Things”

collection. This new collection will focus on non-traditional materials that the library will begin making available for checkout to our patrons. Expect more to come! With summer just around the bend, the Summer Reading Challenge for library patrons of all ages is returning this June. This year will encompass the theme “Oceans of Possibilities,” and will be a return to form for the library as we transition out of a pandemic environment. Community members will be able to take part in communal activities and events both in-person, outdoors and virtually. In addition to events and programs, fun “missions,” reading lists, crafts and activities will be accessible to community members who sign up for the challenge. Individuals will earn points as they read books, attend library programs and activities, with a packet of prizes for children who complete the challenge over the course of the summer. Additionally, adult participants will have the opportunity to earn raffle tickets, which can be used to enter participants into drawings for prizes generously provided by local businesses

and other community partners. Want to take on the challenge? The Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library Summer Reading Challenge goes live with a kick-off part on June 6 and runs through the end of July, wrapping up July 22. We hope to see you soon! Are you interested in learning more about all the services and upcoming events the library is providing? Feel free to visit our library website at flagstaffpubliclibrary.org and see the wide variety of material and programs we have to offer. Also, please be sure to give us a “like” or “follow” on social media to stay up to date as we move into summer; the Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library can be found on Instagram (instagram.com/flagstafflibrary/), Facebook (facebook.com/flaglib), Pinterest (pinterest.com/flaglib/) and twitter (twitter.com/flaglib). Feel free to chat with us and engage with other members of our community! FBN Richard Tutwiler is the deputy director of Public Service with the Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library.

Flagstaff Business News // JUNE 2022

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Flagstaff Pro Rodeo Offering Traditional Western Events for All Ages

By Kristen Daulton

ust off your boots, the Flagstaff Pro Rodeo is quickly approaching its ninth anniversary, June 23-25, at Fort Tuthill Park in Coconino County. This event is great summer entertainment for the entire family! It offers old-fashioned rodeo fun with saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, barrel racing, team roping, bull riding, bareback riding and tie-down roping. A crowd favorite is the sheep riding, or mutton busting, for kids under 8 years of age and weighing less than 50 pounds. Youngsters can climb aboard a sheep for the ride of their life through the arena! Winners walk away with a shiny new buckle to show off! Our halftime show features the excite-

ment of Cowboy Mounted Shooting, with a runoff between the best of the best. Black powder blanks are fired at balloon targets as cowboys and cowgirls run as fast as their horses can carry them through the patterns. There will be plenty of shopping vendors and delicious food to enjoy while walking around the rodeo grounds. Live music will hit the stage on Saturday night in the arena after the last bull bucks. County Line will fill the grandstands with country music for everyone to kick up their heels. The rodeo dance is free to attend for all who have purchased a ticket into the rodeo performance. Make sure you stop by our royalty booth to get an autograph from one of the lovely ladies representing rodeos all over the world. This group travels end-

// This event is great summer entertainment for the entire family! It offers old-fashioned rodeo fun with saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, barrel racing, team roping, bull riding, bareback riding and tie-down roping. //

less miles each year representing their rodeo and helping to educate the fans on the sport. At rodeos, they sign autographs, help with raffles, push cattle in the timed events, teach kids about rodeo and run sponsor flags in the arena. Not just a pretty face, these women work so hard and are excellent horsewomen. Each year, the Flagstaff Pro Rodeo donates more than $10,000 back to our mountain town community. We are firm believers that you were put on this earth to give and not to receive. Since 2013, we have given it our best effort to support the community that so graciously supports our event every year. From local youth sports teams, fire departments, 4-H clubs, families in need, equine sports clubs and suicide prevention organizations, we love to give! Every year, opening night is designated to Suicide Prevention Awareness. We ask rodeo fans to wear purple and turquoise colors as well as participate in our fundraising event in which 100% of the proceeds are donated to a local suicide prevention organization. This year, you won’t want to miss out! Make sure you purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win a brand-new Dodge Ram pickup truck by kicking a football

into the truck bed. Contestants will be drawn at the event, and you must be present to participate. This year, we also designated our annual rodeo Kickoff Party to support the Tunnel Fire families that lost homes in our recent fire. We will be donating 100% of the proceeds from the event, more than $8,000, to local families in the form of gift cards. We will invite each family to attend our rodeo on opening night and present them with our gift. We offer a special thank you to the Smith family, Karin Ramos, Krista Randall, the FPR Committee and all the ever-so-generous sponsors that made the event possible. Friday night we like to thank the first responders by wearing black and gold. Saturday night is our patriotic/military night, and we ask that rodeo fans wear red, white and blue. Each night, our National Anthem is sung loud and proud by the immensely talented Emily Johnson. We have some special surprises scheduled as well; be sure to look up in the sky for possible parachuters. Force Skydivers will be our jump team. Last but definitely not least, our second biggest fundraiser of the year is our

Jackpot Barrel Race held the Wednesday night before our rodeo starts. This year, on June 22, starting at 6 p.m., we will set up three metal barrels in the arena for all the contestants to race the clock for the fastest time to take home the buckle! Fifty percent of the entries are donated to the Flagstaff Pro Rodeo to help with operational expenses of the rodeo. Beautiful buckles and prizes will be awarded to all the division winners. Exhibition runs will be from 4-5:30 p.m. Pre entries open June 1 and are appreciated by contacting Carrie at 928-699-9511. We hope to see you all at the arena on June 23-25 at the Fort Tuthill County Park! FBN For tickets and general information, please visit our website: flagstaffrodeo.com. Kristen Daulton has been working on the Flagstaff Pro Rodeo for the past ten years and currently holds the position on the board of directors as president. She is a long-time Flagstaff resident who loves to be involved with the community and share the rodeo with her family. She can be reached at Flagstaffrodeo@ gmail.com

JUNE 2022 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

What Aesthetic Treatments are Right for You? By Christina Kovalik, NMD, LAc

ith so many options and procedures available to assist in decreasing the effects of aging, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. The Vitality Doctor can make it easy for you by creating a facial/body rejuvenation plan that best fits your aesthetic needs. Here are some options that I use in the practice that have been showing some fantastic results. Many treatments can be stacked for ultimate results. We make it a priority to follow your facial rejuvenation plan that is customized for your needs. Below are options for facial/body rejuvenation:

1. TEMPSURE OR PELLEVE RADIO FREQUENCY (RF) TREATMENTS

This RF technology heats the dermal layer to the correct temperature that induces collagen production, lifts, tightens and plumps the skin. It is best for full face, neck, arms, belly and thighs. After a series of three to six monthly treatments, it is recommended to be maintained quarterly, at minimum once yearly, for best results. It is like a hot rock massage and there is no downtime.

2. DYSPORT, BOTOX

Botulism toxin is injected in the facial muscles that temporarily minimizes angry lines, crows’ feet, forehead wrinkles and small lines around the mouth/ lips. It is more preventative in allowing these lines to become less defined with regular quarterly treatments.

3. FILLERS

Hyaluronic acid is injected into spaces of volume loss associated with the aging face. It is best to fill around the nasolabial groove, mouth, cheeks, lips and eye troughs. Most fillers last about six to nine months, depending on which type and area treated.

4. PDO THREADS

PDO threads (polydioxanone) absorbable sutures are a minimally invasive

treatment for lifting the face and neck without surgery. They have been used in surgeries since 1911. They have been utilized in the orthopedic and cardiovascular surgical world through the last three decades. PDO threads have been gaining popularity in the aesthetic world as a non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure that shows visible results in lifting and for facial rejuvenation by inducing collagen regeneration. There are several different thread companies that specialize in designing threads used for aesthetic purposes but few are FDA cleared. MINT, minimally invasive non-surgical threads, are FDA cleared for facial rejuvenation and immediate lifting of the jowls, eyebrows, mid and lower face, neck and some body parts such as arms and above knees. The PDO threads are placed just under the skin and are designed to lift the tissue. The body creates collagen around the thread that dissolves in six to nine months with the collagen building results lasting for a year to 18 months. There is little downtime and minimal to no bruising.

5. TOPICAL CREAMS

There are so many creams or serums out there promising different effects. CBD Glow serum can leave your skin

feeling silky soft as it minimizes fine lines and wrinkles. There is also a compounded cream called Rip Van Wrinkle cream that has some low dose hormones such as estriol, antioxidants and hyaluronic acid in it that act locally to plump and tighten aging skin.

6. CLEAN INTERNAL SYSTEMS

Make sure to eat a healthy clean diet, drink lots of water and focus on keeping your detoxification pathways open to allow your skin to look its best. It is also very important to think about what you are putting on your skin and using in your personal products. Many are laced with toxins. Also getting enough sleep can keep your skin more refreshed.

AWD LAW for FBN 4 FIN.pdf

FELLOWSHIP-TRAINED FOOT & ANKLE SURGEON C

CATLEA GORMAN, D.P.M. To schedule an appointment call (928) 773-2280. www.flagstaffboneandjoint.com

525 North Switzer Canyon Drive Flagstaff, AZ 86001

CMY

3/1/21

6:06 PM

7. BALANCED HORMONES

Hormone imbalance of aging can make skin appear thin and less supple. A simple blood test and hormone optimization treatments can help your skin look its best. FBN Dr. Christina Kovalik NMD, LAc, The Vitality Doctor, is a naturopathic physician and acupuncturist specializing in hormone optimization, optimal health and vitality. She is a new Flagstaff resident, practicing since 2004, and opened her second location in Doney Park in 2020. For more information, visit thevitalitydoctor.com or call 928-863-6086.

Flagstaff Business News // JUNE 2022

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Real Estate Inventory Rising

By Amber Welsch

he last two years have been hard for buyers, to say the least. Reports of a buyer making an offer on more than 10 properties before they were finally successful were not unusual, nor was being beat out in situations where eight, 12, 15 offers were being made on the same house. Low inventory was primarily to blame for this and, in the first quarter of this year, concerns about anticipated interest rate hikes may have further fueled the red-hot seller’s market. Waiving contingencies such as the home inspection and appraisals and including escalation clauses and non-refundable earnest money were commonplace. And when the buyer pool is heavy with cash buyers and

investors, someone with traditional financing can experience losing a bidding war by a long shot even when it was the best offer they could make. In that recent frenzied market, it was easy to see how competing buyers could become weary and exhausted, all but giving up in their pursuit of home ownership. However, while it is still a strong seller’s market, there have been significant shifts in the real estate market this spring. As recently as early March, new listings were experiencing non-stop first weekend showings and offer-review deadlines of less than a week. New listings jumped by 57% and active inventory increased 85% from March to April. Median days on the market ticked up by about 3% during that time and agents are reporting fewer showings

// As recently as early March, new listings were experiencing non-stop first weekend showings and offer-review deadlines of less than a week. New listings jumped by 57% and active inventory increased 85% from March to April. //

and fewer offers within the first week of a listing. After a long period of rapidly increasing, home prices have recently flattened out, with the Northern Arizona MLS showing 69 price reductions on single-family Flagstaff homes in the month of May at the time of writing. All of these are signs of increasing supply and normal seasonality accounts for some of it, with inventory typically increasing in the spring and beginning of summer. However, when combined with rising mortgage rates and inflation, some have asked if the real estate market is heading toward a correction. Overall, the data does not seem to support that. Although current rates are higher than the 3-4% ± of the recent past, they still remain lower than interest rates in the 7-8% ± range of the early 2000’s. Another measure, the Market Action Index by Altos Research, is a barometer of real estate supply and demand on a 100-point scale. In a balanced market, the index measures around 30, with scores above that indicating a strong seller’s market and below indicating a buyer’s market. According to Altos Research, the index is at 66 in Flagstaff, indicating we are still in a strong seller’s market as of late May.

Although we may see more rate hikes, the cost to buyers of waiting to purchase a home is still high. Rental rates are increasing by as much as 25% year over year and buying a home can hedge against inflation. Changing market conditions require different tactics and tools. Adjustable rate mortgages have been on the rise as a counter to rising interest rates. And a tactic called seller buydown, where the seller pays to lower the buyer’s interest rate is being used in more deals. This increases the pool of prospective buyers

for the seller by allowing more buyers to make an offer on a home that they may not have been able to afford otherwise. An experienced lender will better explain these options and others that are available in these changing market conditions. FBN Amber Welsch is a sales associate on The Mary Mendoza Team at Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. She is a 20-year resident of Flagstaff and a native Arizonan. She can be reached @ amber. welsch@russlyon.com or 928607-9566.

Member FDIC

JUNE 2022 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

Tips to Recover from Stress, Feeling Overwhelmed

By Amber Belt, ND

think we can all wholeheartedly agree that the last two years have been quite stressful. I see a lot of patients feeling very overwhelmed because of the strain. They are having trouble bouncing back and feeling like their normal selves. The truth is that stress will always be present in our lives, but it’s how we respond to the stress that matters in terms of our physical, mental and emotional health. I’d like to provide some tips to help recover from a prolonged period of stress that have been helpful for both my patients and me.

PUT THE BRAKES ON THE INPUT

One way that we can preemptively respond to and recover from stress is by not allowing it into our lives. Three areas to look at are news consumption, social media and relationships.

NEWS

Remember when there was just the 5 o’clock and 10 o’clock news? And remember when the news stated the facts with no political or fear-based spin? Currently, I believe the news media’s reporting is heavily based on stoking the fight-or-flight response. Stimulating this response keeps the watcher or reader engaged in their screen, waiting

for the next update. The next update may be just rehashed information from the previous update. And, it may feel as though the news often serves to divide us from our family and friends by presenting questionable “us vs. them” scenarios. I recommend to many of my patients that they stop watching the news or limit news updates to once or twice a day, just like the good ol’ days!

SOCIAL MEDIA

While I enjoy social media in its place, so much of it is toxic. I watch people getting their fight-or-flight reaction provoked by popular social media issues that really don’t impact them. Much of what I see on social media is people who are generally reasonable getting pulled into a mob mentality of absolute right vs. absolute wrong. Much of life is about nuance and shades of gray rather than black or white. The subtleties and nuance present in many issues isn’t something that is present on social media. I set time limits on my social media use every day, which helps me not get sucked into the time-wasting abyss of scrolling.

tionships when possible. Being relaxed and authentic in any relationship is less stressful than putting on a false front when interacting with someone. If there are political differences between family members or friends, it’s OK to have an honest conversation and come to an agreement as to what topics are off limits. Also, if someone is constantly getting a rise out of you on social media, unfollow them to lower stress.

NURTURE YOURSELF WITH STRESS RECOVERY TACTICS

There are many ways to nurture and bring yourself back to center after two years of overwhelm. I gravitate toward using naturopathic medicine, such as herbal medicine and health basics to help myself and others recover.

HERBAL MEDICINE

Plant medicine can be invaluable to heal after long periods of stress. Nervine herbs such as oat tops, skullcap, lemon balm and others soothe and nurture the taxed nervous system and, over time, will help to rebuild resilience. Our adrenal glands are responsible for the hormonal output when the fightor-flight reaction is triggered. If this RELATIONSHIPS response is triggered constantly without Relationships with other people can time for recovery, these glands can bebe stressful, of course. It’s important come taxed. Herbs such as ashwaganda, to have solid communication and appropriate boundaries within our rela- rhodiola and reishi can, over time, help

these glands recover and regain healthy function.

with hormone balance, including those stress hormones!

NATURE

DIET AND HYDRATION

Never underestimate the restorative power of nature! Putting the phone away and going for a hike, walking barefoot in the grass, or lying under a tree looking at the sky takes us out of fight-or-flight mode. We were meant to live in and with nature and very few of us spend enough time in the natural world.

SLEEP

While, culturally, we wear our lack of sleep like a badge of honor, it is detrimental to our health to be chronically under-rested. Without at least seven hours of sleep a night, we can’t heal properly and we put our health at risk. Prioritizing sleep will help build resilience that has been lost.

EXERCISE

Many people stopped physical activity over the past two years, which is terrible for health and wellness. Exercise is incredibly healing on physical, mental and emotional levels. Exercise is a stress relieving outlet for many people and having muscle mass helps

The Standard American Diet and its artificial food-like products does not lead to rebuilding health. Eating food that looks like it did when it came from the farm, as well as drinking enough water and electrolytes will truly nurture your system, giving it what it needs to heal after two long years of stress. In this article, I’ve presented you with ways to bounce back after the overwhelm of the past two years and I hope that they help in your journey back to feeling well. There are many other paths to healing, so if there are other modalities that speak to you, don’t hesitate to try them! FBN Amber Belt, N.D. is a naturopathic physician and co-owner of Aspen Integrative Medical Center where she helps patients get healthy from the inside out. She is also co-owner of Sage Sirona, which focuses on natural first aid and education. Dr. Belt has been practicing naturopathic medicine for more than 15 years and can be contacted via aspenmedcenter. com or sagesirona.com. You can also call her office at 928213-5828.

Create

EN V I RONMENT S your local one-stop garden and landscape destination

Nonsurgical Fat Reduction

Call Today for a Complimentary CoolSculpting Consultation

Stephen F. Lex, M.D. | Jack Quigley, M.D. Adam K. Boettcher, M.D.

www.psna.net (928) 774-2300 | (800) 962-1390 1020 N. San Francisco Street | Flagstaff, AZ 86001

We are committed to providing quality plants at a value price with expert service that ensures our customers' satisfaction Family owned and operated since 1970 (928) 774-1983 | warnersnursery.com

Flagstaff Business News // JUNE 2022

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

What is EDC?

By Rob Wilson

n this increasingly unsafe world, we as individuals need to adjust our behaviors to better ensure the safety of ourselves and our loved ones. We first need to be “situationally aware” of our surroundings, actively observing what is going on around us and looking for possible threats. Threats can be very obvious, as a traditional bank robber would be, or they could be something much more subtle, like a van parked next to your car when there are only two cars in the entire parking lot. Avoiding conflict is always the best strategy to live your life by, but when that is no longer an option, you must be prepared! Being prepared is where EDC comes into play. EDC, or Every Day Carry, is about what you have with you each day that better prepares you to address those threats that leave you no choice. Most folks agree that as a minimum, your EDC kit should include a reliable, properly holstered and accessible firearm and a flashlight. Let’s talk about each of these and the role they play. When it comes to self-defense, any firearm is better than no firearm at all. You need to select one that you

are comfortably able to carry concealed, that you can shoot accurately and that you’ll practice with on a regular basis. If you don’t already have one, go to a range and rent several different sizes, calibers and manufacturers’ handguns and find the one that fits you the best. If you’ve never shot before, take an introductory course so you’re comfortable with the safety rules and the basics of firearm handling before range testing. Once you’ve identified the proper firearm, you’ll need to get a holster that will allow you to carry it safely, which means it completely covers the trigger guard to prevent an accident and will work with your body type and clothing choices. Depending on the capacity of your firearm, you may also choose to carry an additional magazine, which can be done in a variety of ways. You may ask, “Why do I need to carry a flashlight?” The answer is two-fold. First, most defensive firearm events occur in less-than-ideal lighting conditions, and second, as the safety rule says, you must “always be sure of your target and what’s beyond it.” An EDC flashlight should be compact enough that you’ll carry it regularly but produce enough light that you can illuminate a completely

darkened room. The good news is that you no longer need to spend hundreds of dollars on a great EDC flashlight. Since the advent of LEDs, the cost has come down and the illumination has gone up. One feature that’s a must-have is a tail-mounted activation switch. You’ll need to be able to turn it on and off with the thumb of your non-firing hand using that switch. Finally, you should have access to a quality tourniquet and the training

on how to use it. Have one in your home, one in your vehicle and one at work. Or, better yet, have one on your person. Free “Stop the Bleed” courses will teach you the proper time to use a tourniquet and the proper way to apply it. They are not just for the possibility of gunshot wound but are equally valuable for accidents around the house, on the trail or on the road. Every person’s EDC kit will vary but yours should work for you and

you should train regularly with it. Doing so will significantly improve your odds of surviving an otherwise tragic event. FBN Rob and Elise Wilson own Timberline Firearms. Both their business and their home were in the Tunnel Fire evacuation zone. While their home suffered significant damage from the heat of the fire, they are extremely thankful that it was not lost.

LET’S PLAN FOR THE FUTURE Service at a Higher Elevation Plumbing, radiant in-floor heating systems, forced air heating and air conditioning for new construction, remodels and

24 hour service. 6993 N. Columbine Flagstaff, AZ 86004 Tel (928) 526-7006/ (928) 526-6231 Fax (928) 527-3727 www.intermountainaz.com Debbie@intermountainaz.com

We have been serving individuals, families, and small businesses with their financial planning needs since 1993. Our mission is to build long-term relationships and create a personalized plan for your unique situation.

Alyn Rumbold, CFP® Certified Financial PlannerTM 1600 West University Ave. Suite 210 Flagstaff, Arizona 86001 T 928.226.7400 I F 928.226.3362 alyn@merlin-planning.com www.merlin-planning.com Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERTM and CFP in the U.S. Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC.

JUNE 2022 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

The Path Toward Normalcy

By Lori Anna Harrison

ver the last several months, the market has shifted slightly as it relates to price decreases, enough so that in another month or two, we can call it a trend. During the last two years, the Flagstaff real estate market rarely saw a price drop and, in fact, had price increases and bidding wars on many properties listed. The multiple-offer scenario has not evaporated, but now more than ever, the condition of the home as well as a strong listing price based on comparables in the neighborhood are critical. In May 2022, the median price of a single family home was $780,000. This is the highest median price in Flagstaff history, with April 2022 as the second highest median price at $755,000. The average price of a single-family home sold was $962,225 and the average price per square foot was $409. In May 2021, the median price was $599,000, which is an increase of $181,000 year over year. The good news is that there were 69 single family homes sold in May 2022 and there are 157 homes still available on the market. Seasonally there is an increase in homes listed

at the end of spring and beginning of summer. That number typically peaks in July and then contracts to the lowest point during first quarter of each year. Out of the 69 single family homes sold during May, there were 11, or 16%, that sold for exactly the list price. There were 44 homes, or 64%, that sold for more than listing price. There were 14 homes, or 20%, that sold for less than the listed price. The range of the price decrease for those that sold for less than listed was $1,000 to $254,000. The greatest price reduction, at $254,000, was an 11% decrease from the original listing price of $2.25 million. During April 2022, there were 77 single-family homes sold and 13, or 17%, sold for exactly the list price. There were 62% that sold for more than listing price and 16 homes, or 21%, that sold for less than the listed price. The range of decrease last month was from $5,000 to $104,000. The greatest price reduction of $104,000 was a 7% decrease from the original listing price of $1.39 million. Both months were very similar, as was March 2022. Surprisingly enough, these price reductions for homes sold are also similar to what

occurred in May 2021. However, the number of homes was significantly higher, at 103. There were 19 single-family homes, or 18%, that were sold for less than the listing price. There were 20 homes, or 19%, that were sold for exactly the listing price, and 64 homes, or 62%, that were sold for more than the listing price. At the end of the day, it is still a seller’s market; however, expectations about pricing might need to be adapted a bit prior to listing on MLS. Buyers are now more discerning and spend a bit more time looking for the perfect home. Additionally, with interest rate increases, we are seeing fewer purchase contracts with carte-blanche appraisal waivers. An appraisal waiver is when the buyer agrees to pay in cash the difference between the appraised amount of the home and the offer price. Another factor of much importance is the condition of the home. As always, prepping the home for sale - by decluttering, minimizing furniture (and possibly accessories) so rooms appear larger, replacing lightbulbs, professionally cleaning carpets and windows, plus enhancing curb appeal with a tidy front yard - is very important and will pay divi-

3rd Annual

PRESCOTT AREA

AWA R D S

Save the Date! SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2022

Presented by

woman

Prescott

HOME | HEALTH | BEAUTY | BUSINESS | LOCAL ISSUES

Nominate Now at: WWW.PRESCOTTATHENA.COM

This path along the Tom Moody Trail leads to a waterfall at Picture Canyon. Photo by Bobby Chin

dends. The path toward normalcy is refreshing, and if that means homes are being priced well and getting show-ready before hitting the market, this is a win for everyone. FBN Lori Anna Harrison is a Flagstaff native and 18-year real estate

veteran commencing post graduate school with Shea Homes. Lori is a fulltime licensed REALTOR® with Zion Realty, LLC. Call her today at 928.396.5851 or text 602.524.5674, email lori@ AZdreamlifestyle.com and visit AZdreamlifestyle.com.

Flagstaff Business News // JUNE 2022

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Heel Pain is on the Rise

By Reisha Zang

ore than two million Americans suffer from plantar fasciitis, a sharp, stabbing, sometimes burning pain in the heel or arch of the foot. It’s anticipated this number will rise as the weather warms up and people become more active. “Most heel pain happens when there is irritation or inflammation of the

fascia. That’s the tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. When it’s inflamed, it hurts,” explained Dr. Diana Perry of CIC Foot & Ankle in Flagstaff. “Patients tell me it’s worse when they get out of bed in the morning or after sitting for a while. That’s because the fascia will stretch out as you walk, so it’ll start to feel better. But, if you stop moving for a while, the pain will come back.”

// Most heel pain happens when there is irritation or inflammation of the fascia. That’s the tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. //

Walking or standing on hard surfaces, a few extra pounds and certain illnesses, like gout, arthritis and psoriasis can trigger heel pain. “Increasing your activity level or new shoes are prime culprits for causing this type of pain,” said Perry. “Being overweight can also put extra pressure on the heels, resulting in pain as well.” Heel spurs are another factor. “A calcium deposit, or heel spur, may develop where the fascia connects to the heel bone,” explained Perry. “It surprises a lot of people, but most of the time it is not the heel spur that is causing the pain, it’s the fascia pulling on the bone.” In either case, seeing a foot doctor can help relieve the symptoms.

Seeking care is important because the longer heel pain remains untreated, the worse it can become. But the good news is that approximately 90% of the time, conservative care (non-surgical treatment) is effective in treating the pain. “The key is diagnosing the cause of the pain,” said Perry. “In many cases, it comes when your feet are out of alignment.” When your feet are functioning properly, they flatten and regain their arches. When this doesn’t happen, it leads to pain and discomfort. “If you’re not walking with a normal gait, it puts undue pressure on different joints,” explained Perry. “This causes

the muscles to pull harder on some areas, which is not normal.” Relieving the abnormal stresses on the soft tissues and the subsequent imbalance of the foot can help alleviate the problem. “There are steps we can take to help your feet work better,” said Perry. “The first step is seeing a foot doctor.” FBN Dr. Diana Perry, DPM, specializes in limb preservation and trauma of the foot. She can be reached at CiC 928-719-7400. Reisha Zang is director of patient education at CiC. You may contact her at 928719-7400 or reisha.zang@ ciccenters.com.

JUNE 2022 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

LOGGING continued from page 1

going on on the ground.” “It’s a huge loss to the community,” said retired Coconino National Forest Flagstaff District Timber Staff Officer Joe Luttman. “Ken is as much a conservationist as he is a logger. They were a very good company to work with, a very good company to be associated with and a very good company for the community. They were very conscientious. I’ll tell you what. That company would do roads better than anyone else I ever worked with. Kenny was a stickler for details. He could tell you the cost per acre of running a skidder for one hour. He always followed the rules and regulations and was always trying to make sure the Forest Service was holding up their part of the agreement.” “They had unbelievable integrity,” said retired Forest Service Timber Sale Administrator Dick Fleishman. “Their contributions to the work around Flagstaff helped get this town a little bit safer. When we’d get fires in locations where they had worked, it was clear they had made a difference. They also paid good benefits to their workers at a time when other loggers wouldn’t take care of their people. And they were expensive. They wouldn’t drop their price to do their work because that’s what it took to do it right. In the timber sales going on now, some other companies struggle and the end results are more ground

disturbance in the forest.” Ken was 22 years old in 1974, when his dad, George, brought Ribelin Logging and the family to Flagstaff from Colorado in response to a request from Southwest Forest Industries, Flagstaff’s large sawmill operator. “When we came to Flagstaff, the logging companies did not have a good reputation. We tried to fix that. My father always taught us, ‘If something’s worth doing, it’s worth doing right.’” Ken says, at the time, the logging companies in Flagstaff didn’t communicate with the loggers in the White Mountains. George changed that. “He was instrumental in creating the Northern Arizona Logging Association. The group would meet four times a year to work together on improving conditions for loggers and discuss how to prevent injuries and accidents. Sitting down and talking made things better.” Fleishman was working as a harvest inspector on the Long Valley Ranger District of the Coconino National Forest when he first met George, who founded Ribelin Logging in Montrose, Colorado in 1958. “They were the first to actually be doing mechanical harvesting.” Fleishman recalls the Dirty Neck Timber Sale near Clint’s Well as the first time he saw a tree seemingly moving by itself through the woods. It was being carried in the arms of new

Ribelin founder George Ribelin and his brother, Larry Ribelin, are shown here in front of a log loader on the Coconino National Forest in the mid ‘80s. Courtesy photo

machinery, a log collector. “Ribelin knew if you do the job right with the least amount of [forest] disturbance, you never had to go back. I learned so much from those guys. They were the best loggers by far. They would tell you how good they were, too,” said Fleishman. “There were five different large harvesting subcontrac-

tors working with Southwest Forest Industries then. The Ribelins were the only ones to stick around. They understood the economics and did the work efficiently. They had good equipment. They also built a lot of roads and would do extra work on roads, which saved them on not tearing up their logging trucks. They were never one

to shortcut anything, they just wanted to do an excellent job. They’d do it the right way, they did everything well and they made money doing it.” “Ken has a salt-of-the-earth character and Ribelin had a huge impact on Northern Arizona,” said Vastco Owner Ed Van Beek, a former member of Continued on page 38

Good Business Requires Good People.

SPONSORED BY FLAGSTAFFCITYCAREERS.COM Check Out the New FBN Local Employment Opportunities Section on Page 25. Flagstaff Businesses receive 50% Off your hiring ads as a courtesy sponsorship with the City of Flagstaff Please contact FBN: Amy@Flagstaffbusinessnews.com or 602-909-3910 for more information

Submit your application today!

Flagstaff Business News // JUNE 2022

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

LOGGING continued from page 37

the Forest Service road crew and wildland firefighter who has a long history with Ken that started in 1982. “What a wonderful land stewardship example they set in logging, and maintaining and developing bridges and culverts.” The two businesses, Vastco, a traffic interchange and bridge building company, and Ribelin, worked together on the Interstate 40/Interstate 17 interchange in the early 2000s. “The Ribelin family was a big part of that project. They were very conscientious about tree removal and fitting the valuable trees and overall environment into the project so we could overlay the interchange in the ponderosa pine forest. We cut some trees and were able to mill them into benches along the urban trail [FUTS]. It was a wonderful example of taking a transportation development project and giving back while being conscientious, quick, clean and efficient. The Ribelins are outstanding people and the impact on the community has been nothing but positive in a very traditional industry.” “I spent time with Kenny looking at his operations and talking with him about forest restoration treatments with minimal damage to the soil, maximum benefit to the residual stand. When he left a site, it was in good condition and on a good path for forest health,” said Covington, retired founder of the Ecological Restoration Institute at Northern Arizona Univer-

sity and Emeritus Regents’ Professor of Forestry.

A DWINDLING INDUSTRY

Southwest Forest Industries became acquired by Stone Container Corp. in 1987, which closed the Flagstaff mill in 1998. “We’ve been existing without any mill since then by taking wood wherever we could sell it. It’s a daunting task. There’s just no market for it. We’ve been a pretty small company for the last 20 years with the industry going away,” said Ken. Since the mid ‘90s, Ribelin has been the main operator clearing land for subdivisions and golf courses in Flagstaff. In 2009, Ribelin Logging’s parent company, High Desert Investment Co., opened a firewood plant in Winslow. High Desert Forest Products operated from the former Coca-Cola facility there. “We worked about 30 people out of that plant to get rid of the small wood off our jobs and ran it for about 10 years,” he said. Ribelin had planned to be part of the forest thinning solution through 4FRI, delivering logs from small diameter trees to an Oriented Strand Board plant planned for Winslow. The OSB operation never happened and Ribelin didn’t win the Forest Service bid for the 10-year thinning contract. The company’s last contract on the Coconino National Forest was at Chimney Springs working with The

Nature Conservancy (TNC) in 2017. “They were the best loggers I ever worked with,” said Flagstaff Fire Department Forest Health Supervisor Neil Chapman, who was the TNC forest program manager at the time. “Their commitment to excellence showed in how they would implement projects and close out projects. I learned so much from them. Ken and the crew were just fantastic. They really paid attention to the right trees to remove and the right trees to leave in the woods. They did a wonderful job with the way the site looked when they were wrapping up and with rehabilitating roads.”

A CHANGE ON THE LANDSCAPE

Ribelin had become frustrated with a lack of Forest Service timber sales in recent decades and the number of appeals filed on those that have been offered for bid. Those in the industry say the business has become more difficult since its heyday in Flagstaff in the ‘70s and ‘80s. The cost of doing business has increased while the labor force has decreased. “Finding people who can do the work in this backbreaking industry is tough, and contracts are getting more complicated and difficult to administer,” said Van Beek. “When we started in Arizona, our contract with the Forest Service that spells out all the conditions of the sale was a quarter-of-an-inch thick.

Now, they are two-and-a-half inches thick and there is nothing in there that makes it better for the logger,” said Ken. At 70 years old this month, Ribelin is disappointed about the jobs that don’t exist now and the family business that won’t be handed down to the next generation. “It’s pretty sad when it could have been a really thriving industry.” He is also concerned about devastating wildfires that he says will keep threatening Flagstaff and other communities. “That whole area where the Tunnel Fire burned, that was marked to be logged. Too many people don’t understand the need to thin the woods. The small trees are choking out the forest. I’m not sure I can stand to watch what little is being done here.” Of the Ribelin family involved in the business, company Chairman George Ribelin is 94. He and his wife, Vice President Joann, live in Cottonwood. Ken’s brother, Allen, is chief financial officer, living in Queen Creek. Little sister Joni Boardman, a former director, is in Clarkdale. Cousin Tim, a foreman, lives in Camp Verde. George’s brother Larry is in Flagstaff. His brother, Butch, died in 2020. “We are losing generations of experience and loggers who do such high quality and important work protecting our communities and our

watersheds,” said Chapman. “This marks a sea change on the landscape,” said Van Beek. “There was so much talent working in the Coconino National Forest in the ‘70s and ‘80s. The Ribelins affected the whole Forest Service culture. Their work was part of the identity of Flagstaff. It’s bittersweet as we look back in respect for the past and try to understand how we see the future.” “I hate to see the Ribelins go,” said Covington. “They’ve been important to Flagstaff since the ‘70s. I think it’s going to be difficult to find companies willing to take on the risk of bidding on contracts without some kind of guarantee of the work. Still, I’m hopeful that we can restore forest areas to more open conditions and naturally functioning ecosystems. The Tunnel Fire burned very hot and the wind speed was high. I do not see that changing. There are still tens of thousands of acres left to burn under high severity conditions in Arizona.” As a logger, Ken was always in the woods, from daylight to nightfall. In retirement, he doesn’t see that changing, except now he’ll be camping and hunting. “That was the most enjoyable part of being a logger, being in the forest.” FBN

Watch Your Business News! Bonnie Stevens' Communication Station is delivering a refreshing, engaging and inspirational vodcast (video podcast) that features Northern Arizona businesses, outdoor adventure and leadership tips twice a month. Zonie Living is sponsored in part by Flagstaff Business News. Go to https://starworldwidenetworks.com/shows/bonnie-stevens

Auto Glass Tinting Auto Detail Accessories Paint Protection Film

We accept all insurance, have a 100% Guarantee, offer FREE Mobile Service, and repair future chips for FREE. LOCALLY OWNED FOR 30 YEARS • LIFETIME WINDSHIELD REPAIR WARRANTY • LIFETIME INSTALL WARRANTY • VOTED BEST AUTO GLASS SHOP 2018

inspectorsauto.com | (928) 774-1125 2332 E Route 66 •Flagstaff, AZ 86004

JUNE 2022 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

MOVERS continued from page 6

towns my entire life and while Flagstaff is much larger than any town I grew up in, it has a very small-town feel. It’s got a great sense of community, while still having conveniences of a larger town.” Most of the staff has been hired for the Flagstaff franchise but there are a few more spots to fill, such as an inside sales representative and a non-CDL driver. “The biggest challenges in opening Flagstaff was, first, finding an affordable space to lease and, secondly, securing the delivery of new moving trucks from the various vendors we source from,” said Bruner. “Everyone we talked to during pre-opening was very excited for us. There is a need for a professional moving company in Northern Arizona and they like to see companies opening and expanding in Northern Arizona.” Like most companies, Two Men

and a Truck is experiencing a labor shortage and rising costs. “Arizona is growing so rapidly it is causing more and more moving companies to open up in Arizona and the existing ones are expanding,” said Bruner. “So, we have to continue to be on our A game and utilize strong brand and training curriculum to stay ahead of the competition.” Giving back to the community is part of the company’s goals. “We are looking forward to executing some of the charity events we do, such as Movers for Moms in the spring and Movers for Meals or Mutts or Military in the fall,” he said. Two Men and a Truck started 35 years ago in Lansing, Michigan, when Mary Ellen Sheets used her two sons, high-school students Brig and Jon Sorber, to haul trash, brush and house-

hold goods in an old pickup truck. When the sons left for college, calls kept coming in to Sheets with requests for services, so she hired movers and kept the enterprise going. Today, TMT is the largest franchised moving company in North America, with more than 390 locations and 3,000 trucks operating in 46 states in the U.S., in addition to Canada, Ireland and the U.K. Ackley attributes the company’s success to the strength of the franchising structure. “We’ve worked diligently to build a franchising model, which is both exciting and dependable for new franchisees,” she said. “Our process involves candidates seeking information The Flagstaff office has two 10,000 pound trucks. A third is on order. Photo by Betsey Bruner about moving services and us answering the important questions regarding The Flagstaff franchise is located at 2621 their potential investment. We feel this our business model.” FBN E. 7th Ave. For more information, visit is an integral part of getting to know twomenandatruck.com. them and providing transparency in

REAL ESTATE TIP OF THE MONTH WITH GARY NELSON Most Realtors in Northern Arizona mark March as the beginning of the housing season. Many choose the end of September as the seasonal slow down in real estate activity. But what month is the absolute top for both sales and listing activity? June! Housing sales in June are typically 29% above average. If you are ready, so is the market! 928-225-3510 | Realty Executives of Flagstaff | GaryNelsonGroup.com

Headlines 2000 Hair Studio By Terry Baker

• CDC Compliant hair studio • Over 16 years Flagstaff experience • Men’s specialty cuts • Curl/cut/color • Specialty events

Call me to get your hair love: 928.600.3142 Located at 113 East Aspen Ave. Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Join our Newsletter!

Subscribe to the Flagstaff Business News monthly e-Newsletter to receive highlights on the latest developments in business, education and health care Go to www.flagstaffBusinessNews.com to subscribe today!

Flagstaff Business News // JUNE 2022

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

GRAND MARSHAL continued from page 14

he said. “I never expected to do anything like this. I appreciate so much to be honored in this way.” The Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Nackard Pepsi, hosts the Fourth of July. The Chamber worked with Lowell Observatory to bring in Schmitt as grand marshal. “We are honored to have a parade grand marshal with such high distinctions as Jack Schmitt and we are excited to welcome Grand Marshal Schmitt in Flagstaff,” said Chamber President and CEO Julie Pastrick. Schmitt said he looks forward to returning to Flagstaff. “It will be wonderful to be there and to see old friends,” he said, “and to think about those who are no longer with us, who contributed so much not only to our country, but also to the history and the dynamics of Flagstaff.” FBN

Jack Schmitt trains in Northern Arizona for his Apollo 17 mission, ca. 1972. Courtesy of the Astrogeology Science Center, USGS.

Flagstaff’s Fourth of July parade will begin at 9 a.m., Monday July 4. It will follow the traditional downtown course of past years. Other key sponsors of the event include Flagstaff’s Great Circle Media, Waste Management and APS. For more information about the parade, contact the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce at 928-774-4505 or visit flagstaffchamber.com.

Jack Schmitt (left) practices using a lunar rake while Gene Cernan takes pictures, during an Apollo 17 training exercise at the Cinder Lake Crater Field complex, ca. 1972. Courtesy of the Astrogeology Science Center, USGS.

PILOT FISH continued from page 18

// And that’s why top flight executives need to get to know their pilot fish, because even if they may seem like a fish out of water to the leadership team with their ideas, that diverse opinion may be floating around among the smaller fish and not reflected in the circle of big fish. // continued to skyrocket: in its first year as a Beam product, Skinnygirl posted a whopping 486% in net sales growth.” How did the major liquor companies miss this? McDonald says they were all run by men at the time. “I’m betting they passed on Skinnygirl because they didn’t see the need for it.” She calls this a “failure of perspective” and notes that diversity in the workplace does not only include things like skin color and sexual orientation, it also includes diversity of thought. And that’s why top flight executives need to get to know their pilot fish, because even if they may seem like a fish out of water to the leadership team with their ideas, that diverse opinion may be floating around among the smaller fish and not reflected in the circle of big fish. The lesson here, there could be a whopper of a business opportunity lurking in the shadows that a homogenous-in-thought leadership team might miss if it’s not paying attention to the pilot fish. Don’t let your Skinnygirl opportunity be the one that got away! FBN Hear more from author Kelly McDonald on Zonie Living: Business, Adventure and Leadership at StarWorldwideNetworks.com. Bonnie Stevens is a public relations consultant. She can be reached at bonnie.stevens@gmail.com.

CCC continued from page 3

N N N N N

Manufacturing Technology Police Academy Paramedic Expand the scholarship program Enhance educational services throughout Coconino County, including communities such as Page, Tuba City and Williams.

According to the legislation that allowed CCC to move forward with the tax-reset election, championed by former State Sen. Sylvia Allen, CCC will receive one-third of the additional amount approved the next fiscal year, which begins July 1. The second year, CCC will receive two-thirds the amount approved, and in the third year, the college will permanently receive the entire approved amount, which will be approximately $6 million. Taxpayers in Coconino County will also experience the same phased tax schedule, one-third the amount the first year, two-thirds the amount the second year and the total amount the third year and beyond. FBN For more information about Coconino Community College, visit www.coconino.edu.

PREGNANCY continued from page 20

only myself but my friends, too. Locally, we can support the Yavapai County Health Educators tasked with educating the students at our local schools about sex and their sexual health, which includes abstinence. Abstinence is okay for teens, but that may not be an option for some. We have teens being trafficked locally. Young people are being sexually exploited in their homes. Having these important resources in our local community helps all of our youth. These educators have been instrumental in helping exploited and abused teens get out of these situations. They also work to empower the youth to have a voice, avoid being groomed and how to say “No” to someone. It can be especially hard for youth to say no, especially to someone they may have feelings for. Education is empowerment. We can help prevent teen pregnancy in our community by talking about it. Let the youth know they have an entire lifetime to fall in love and reproduce and that waiting is all right. These talks can start at home and the local library is packed with books for both parents and teens alike. If you are a parent and do not know how to have the talk, go to your local library. They have books for parents on how to have these important discussions. There is a ton of information out there for teens and young people to access. Having a structured responsible curriculum in the schools has been proven to reduce teen pregnancy and teen STI rates in communities – just ask the CDC! FBN Hedda Fay is the community outreach and program developer for Northland Cares. In a former life, she worked in law enforcement and public mental health. Her passion today is educating people about their sexual health and prevention services to the community. Northland Cares is located at 3112 Clearwater Drive, Ste. A, in Prescott. For more information, call 928-776-4612.

JUNE 2022 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

ROSIE continued from page 4

really sick and require a lot of care. Each baby’s length of stay is different, but many are discharged close to their expected delivery date. Rosie’s stay of 99 days is not the norm.” Laudick is quite familiar with the specialized needs of sick children and their families. As retired CEO of Nusenda Credit Union in Albuquerque, he led multiple fundraising efforts during his career to support the Children’s Miracle Network (CMN), a non-profit organization that raises money for children’s hospitals and a national focal point of credit union philanthropic efforts. When he experienced the “outstanding” medical care that Rosie received, he understood even more deeply the critical impact children’s hospitals have on the lives of newborns. To express his family’s extreme gratitude to Northern Arizona Healthcare, Laudick donated $25,000 to support the Special Care Nursery, which does not qualify for funds through CMN. His goal is to raise $100,000, and he’s volunteered to help the Office of Philanthropy attract the funds. Phoenix-based Desert Financial Credit Union answered his call with $15,000.“We are super excited to be able to do it,” said Desert Financial Assistant Vice President of Community Relations and Engagement Emma Garcia. “It aligns well with our other efforts.” Garcia says Desert Financial focused on supporting crisis services

through the pandemic and had donated a significant delivery of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to FMC. “We knew Northern Arizona was an area hard hit by COVID-19, experiencing a larger number of people in the emergency department (ED), more than any other in the state at times.” The credit union, which is opening a Flagstaff branch this summer, also is participating in the hospital’s Grateful Patient program by hosting a lunch for the FMC ED staff. “The NAH Office of Philanthropy’s Grateful Patient program gives the communities we serve many ways to show their gratitude for the compassionate care we provide,” said NAH Vice President of Philanthropy Maraka Oltrogge. “The donations we receive from businesses and individuals are important in providing resources to support all aspects of NAH. We appreciate donors like the Laudicks, who allow for us to provide invaluable facility and program improvements for the hospital.” Allied Solutions, which provides products and services to credit unions nationwide and is a major contributor to CMN, also responded to Laudick’s request with $10,000. So far, business and individual gifts have totaled more than $50,000 to support the hospital’s smallest patients. “A number of other CEOs individually stepped up without hesitancy and I am very appreciative,” said Lau-

dick. “It wasn’t about servicing our needs, it was about giving back. We wanted to support the Special Care Nursery and add more care pods for the staff and families.” “Our unit is entirely grateful for such generous donations,” said Wiles. “Every penny matters.” These pennies matter particularly to Rosie’s family, as the Special Care Nursery plans to use the funds to help other families with sick babies. “The size of the gift is fantastic. It is allowing us to create Rosie’s Room. It will be an isolation room that can be used by families who have a parent or infant with a respiratory or other infectious illness,” she said. “Our NICU is set up as an open bay, so anyone who is contagious can’t be in the unit. In Rosie’s Room, a parent can stay Austin and Janea Byrne captured the joyous moment with the Special Care Nursery with their baby. The goal is to make staff on Day 99, when they were able to leave the hospital and take Rosie home. Courtesy photo the room a much more nurse-patient-family friendly space that allows us to provide the same level of care in Flagstaff’s Special Care Nursery is Room, the Laudick family, their a private space.” truly one of a kind.” friends and associates will know that “Gratitude is a significant compoRosie continues to require longnent of the care experience at North- their gift will be helping others.” “I know I speak for my entire fam- term medical care, including oxygen ern Arizona Healthcare,” said NAH assistance overnight; however, her ily and fellow NICU parents when I Chief Philanthropy Officer Larry Kushner. “We often find patients and say that we wake up every day thank- grandfather reports she is doing quite well in her overall development. family members of loved ones express ful for the people who make up the Rosie also is thrilled with her new their gratitude to our healthcare pro- Special Care Nursery,” said Rosie’s mom, Janea. “It takes some incredibly role as big sister. Janea and Austin fessionals who provided life-saving special people to do the work they do, welcomed their second child, Lacey care, especially in traumatic situaJo, on May 19. Both mom and baby and they are our superheroes. Their tions. This expression can manifest love and support stretched far beyond are home, healthy and doing well. FBN itself in better equipment, programmatic needs or facilities. By honoring those 99 days and we are so lucky to Rosie and her caregivers with Rosie’s have lifelong relationships as a result.

WINE continued from page 12

Phoenix College, Northern Arizona University and Arizona State University. While attending school, he enrolled in viticulture classes, where he learned about farming grapes both organically and non-organically. “I was 20 years old at the time, so I wasn’t financially able to pursue a vineyard at that time.” For 37 years, Mesa worked for Salt River Project (SRP) before settling into his dream occupation as a winegrower. “While at SRP, I worked in construction, drafting, mechanical engineering, inspection, project manager and site manager for several projects.” With retirement in mind, he combed a 75-mile radius looking for land where he could grow grapes and raise cattle. “I found land with grandfathered water rights dating back to 1875. My wife and I started off with three cows and a small vineyard. Since the previous owners used the land for horse and cow property, it was very fertile.” Mesa planted a small test vineyard in the year 2000, with about 1,000 plants of 10 different varieties to see which ones would do well. After his wife passed away in 2002, Mesa sold his cattle and planted more vines. He retired from his SRP career in 2004 and continued to plant and nurture the grapes. In 2015, he opened the vineyard as a commercial estate operation, meaning all wines produced

from the winery would be made from grapes grown on the property. It also means that the wine stays on the premises during the entire production process, including fermentation, bottling and aging. “Clear Creek Vineyard & Winery is a fully sustainable winery, and the way Ignacio designed it is the way nature works,” said Berkshire Hathaway Realtor Tina Viola, who volunteers at the winery. “He throws me out in the vineyard to work and I love it.” Mesa’s vineyard is the first Arizona winery to earn the Silver Innovator Sustainability Certification from the Arizona Sustainability Alliance. With crystal clear water in the pond fed by Clear Creek, Mesa’s vineyards blend well with the distant views of mountain vistas. “My husband, Tim, and I really enjoyed our visit to the Clear Creek Vineyard & Winery tasting room,” said Flagstaff retiree Irene Blume. “Barbara, the sommelier, served us and she was so friendly and informative about the wine and also so welcoming. It’s a very quaint atmosphere, so we visited with another couple there who are regular customers.” Hints of Mesa’s Hispanic heritage encompass the Rio Claro label, which means, “clear river.” “I attended the Wine and Grapes Symposium in Sacramento and met a talented graphic designer. She devel-

will be going to Escalante and the Aquarius Plateau in Utah soon.

ROLE MODEL

Thomas Jefferson. I like what he did. He designed Monticello, he built a cellar underneath the building and he made wine, beer and tobacco. Beautiful, on top of a hill, but no water, so he had to carry water to the top of the hill. That’s the only mistake he made.

GUILTY PLEASURE

Pairing food with wine.

BEST ADVICE

My brother, Norbert, said, “Always look at the positive qualities a person has, not the negative.” When he told me that, I looked at life differently.

IN MY FREE TIME Ignacio Mesa and his Great Pyrenees dogs, Pancho and Cisco, enjoy greeting guests at Clear Creek Vineyard & Winery with red and white blends. Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

oped my label,” said Mesa. Clear Creek Vineyard & Winery produces a popular 2012 Terciopelo Red Blend of 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Malbec and 50% Petite Syrah. Another favorite is the 2018 Gran Blancas White Blend, made with 45% Viognier, 20% Chardonnay and a 35% Chardonnay blend.

Also on the premises is Club Rio, a renovated vintage wine party bus available to rent for birthdays, anniversaries, nights out or other festive occasions.

DREAM VACATION

I like the natural wonders of our country, state and national parks. I

In the summer, I like to sit under a tree, drink a cold beer and look at the pond and vineyard. In the winter, I like to relax with a hot cup of coffee and spend time with my pets. FBN Located at 4053 E. Highway 260 in Camp Verde, Clear Creek Vineyard & Winery is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. For more information, call 602-859-7418 or visit clearcreekwineryaz.com.

Flagstaff Business News // JUNE 2022

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

LUN AR LEGACY continued from page 1

Moon mapping and Apollo astronaut exercises of the 1960s. “Being close to Flagstaff was very critical to the Apollo missions for getting data sets and starting a machine shop for manufacturing equipment for astronauts,” said Skinner, who’s in charge of the USGS group that creates maps for all planetary bodies beyond Earth. “This area was the training field for rover testing, spacesuit testing, communications scenarios – whatever they thought was going to happen on the Moon. We have a lot of different kinds of lava flows, we have Meteor Crater as an impact crater, so there are lots of different sites that are easily accessible up here, good for transporting material, people, equipment and technology on to the field and testing those things.” Then and now, the Desert RATS carry out experiments at Babbitt Ranches locations such as Black Point Lava Flow and SP Crater. “The Babbitt family and Babbitt Ranches have been extremely supportive and open to helping with all the different things that are happening with NASA,” said Skinner. “The Babbitts have been there playing a historic role with the use of their land. It’s such an easy place to get to with a range of geologic units and terrains. It’s invaluable for training. We wouldn’t be able to do a lot of

this without the Babbitts’ help.”

TRAINING THE MAP MAKERS

As the No. 1 map maker in the world, the USGS Astrogeology Science Center has the delicate job of mapping places no one’s ever been. This summer, Skinner will be training future planetary map makers on Babbitt Ranches and elsewhere in Northern Arizona, and comparing what’s actually on the ground with satellite images. “It’s one of the critical pieces of context we have for understanding other planetary bodies,” said Skinner. “It is important to have not only the astronauts but the NASA engineers and managers come out and see what it looks like to be on the ground and to conduct geologic mapping, to conduct sample analysis, to walk up onto a rock outcrop and to break off a piece and look at it and study it and understand what it means in the context of the geologic map that has been made and is being adapted while they’re on the surface.” Currently, Skinner and his team are making maps of the Moon for the Artemis missions. Artemis I is slated for an uncrewed month-long journey around the Moon. Artemis II is scheduled to set a record for the farthest human travel beyond the far side of the Moon. Artemis III is expected to put two people on the

Astronauts train in the dark on Babbitt Ranches using a portable sun to simulate the shadowy darkness of the lunar south pole. Photo courtesy of NASA

surface of the Moon again. “We spend a lot of time trying to figure out how we can access that information, how we can understand the geology without actually going to the surface and doing mapping like we would on Earth,” he said.

Signature Taxidermy Studio Signature Taxidermy employs some of the world’s best artisans to ensure nothing short of the best for each of our customers, and their specific, one of a kind pieces.

USDA approved facility for receiving sport hunted trophies from around the world. This also includes all deer, and turkey from Mexico. Trophy Room Design- We can assist you in designing a trophy room display to complement your collection. We can assist with lighting, layout, murals, and dioramas. Custom pedestal and base work available.

Crating and Shipping- We crate and ship around the world, and have discounts with many major trucking companies. Rush Orders- Rush orders are available on request for an additional fee. Stock Taxidermy- We have an assortment of legal capes, antlers, and horns that can be mounted in a pose of your choice.

(928) 526-0456

www.signaturetaxidermy.com sigtaxi@msn.com 5440 E Commerce Ave Flagstaff, Arizona

MAKING ROBOTS SMARTER

Meanwhile, rovers are back sharing the landscape with grazing cattle. Scientists like Eldar Noe Dobrea of the Planetary Science Institute and David Wettergreen of Carnegie Mellon are working with Zoë, a planetary rover

prototype, teaching her to think. As expected with next generations, she and future rover robots will be more intelligent than their predecessors who have journeyed to Mars. Across Babbitt Ranches, scientists, Continued on page 43

121 E. Birch Avenue, Suite 408 Flagstaff, AZ 86001 Phone 928.864.7440 Fax 928.226.0303 Email: troy@flagstaffbusinessnews.com www.flagstaffbusinessnews.com Founder: Troy Bix Publisher Amy Bix | 602-909-3910 Amy@flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Website Content Director Darren Choate admin@flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Advertising Manager Ann Herrington | 928-420-4407 Ann@flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Photography V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography, Aspen ProMedia, Betsey Bruner, Sue Marceau

Account Executives Regina Salas | 928-699-4272 regina@flagstaffbusinessnews.com Editor Bonnie Stevens | 928-380-4349 bonnie.stevens@gmail.com Copy Editor Carolyn Wendell | cwendell@gmail.com Design & Production Rob Ghosh Design | rob@robghosh.com

Contributing Writers Betsey Bruner, Sue Marceau, Patty McCormac, Ray Newton, Kevin Schindler, Bonnie Stevens, Veronica Tierney, Stacey Wittig Flagstaff Business News is a publication of Flagstaff Business News, LLC and is distributed free each month to residents of Flagstaff, Sedona, Williams and Winslow. Reproduction of any portion of the publication is strictly prohibited without expressed permission. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisements submitted to the newspaper and is not responsible for the claims of its advertisers.

JUNE 2022 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews LUNAR LEGACY continued from page 42

AT L I T T L E A M E R I C A H O T E L

PICK EXPRESS LUNCH

Zoë’s creator, David Wettergreen, of Carnegie Mellon, explains the instruments on the planetary rover prototype to Babbitt Ranches President and General Manager Billy Cordasco in November 2021. Courtesy photo

engineers and geologists are testing instruments on Zoë that are enabling her to make decisions, explore rocks that catch her attention and actually learn from past information. Essentially, Zoë, which is Greek for “life,” is becoming more like robots in science fiction movies. “When we see Hollywood movies, we actually see a rover that gets sent out to explore and once in a while reports to the team and says, ‘Hey guys, I’m up here and I discovered this,’” said Noe Dobrea. “In reality, that’s not how rovers work on other planets. Right now, we are basically joy-sticking rovers. We tell them, ‘OK, we want you to move 10 feet forward.’ It moves 10 feet forward. On the next uplink or the next day, we tell it, ‘OK, that rock is interesting. Rover, we want you to move two meters to that rock.’ The next uplink we tell it, ‘Rover, we want you to extend that arm and place this instrument on that rock.’ And this goes on and on. Every single action of the rover is commanded from Earth.” Mars rover “Opportunity,” for example, conducted science for 17 years on Mars and accomplished what could have been done by humans in two weeks, says Noe Dobrea. “Plus, additional discoveries could have been made because, as human beings walk around, they are seeing different things that are of interest. The rover doesn’t.” But that’s about to change with software developed by Carnegie Mellon and the U.S. Geological Survey with NASA funding. “We’re trying to advance now to the point where the robot explores on its own, so it decides where to go based on what it’s seeing and based on the geology of the site,” said Wettergreen, who created Zoë. “We have machine intelligence software that learns from prior examples that can interpret that data and determine what kind of rock it’s looking at, so [identifying] the mineralogy of the different rocks.” Zoë’s primary instrument is the near infrared spectrometer, which measures wavelengths of minerals. “It’s like having thousands of pixels, each measuring a different color all the way out into the infrared,” said Wettergreen. “Our eyes see three colors, red, green and

blue,” said Planetary Science Institute Lab Technician Neil Pearson. “With this instrument we can see a lot more colors and it gives us a lot more information about the minerology that we’re seeing in rocks – how different elements are bonded with them. That tells us how they are formed and processes that they’ve been through.” “You can actually identify water and you can identify what kind of minerals or types or rocks the water is trapped in,” said Noe Dobrea. “We can tell the rover we would like to find the places where we have these types of minerals because this may be where we can find life or evidence for past life.” A laser scanner on Zoë calculates the distance to points in the field. “It kind of works like a smart bumper on your car that warns you when you get too close to things,” said Wettergreen. “As the rover drives, it takes measurement after measurement and builds a three-dimensional model of the topography. That’s what it can use to navigate autonomously.” Babbitt Ranches President Billy Cordasco compared the spirit of space exploration to the excitement of traveling to the New World. “In 1639, you have young Ed Babbitt in England hopping on a little boat like the Mayflower crossing the Atlantic with a few instruments and the stars. And here we are today, almost 400 years later, in front of this rover that is learning how to explore other planets. It’s just so inspiring to be with these folks who all have the same ‘Go West’ kind of attitude!” “We are very grateful to Babbitt Ranches for making it so easy for us to access this site to drive our rover around and perform our investigations,” said Noe Dobrea. “It’s been quite an honor and this kind of work is incredible – it’s a childhood dream.” FBN Hear more from Billy Cordasco and Jim Skinner on Zonie Living: Business, Adventure and Leadership, Connecting the Pioneer Age to the Space Age at Dave Pratt’s Star WorldwideNetworks.com.

MONDAY - FRIDAY 11 AM - 2 PM | $12.95 1/2 SANDWICH, SOUP OR SALAD Add a Glass of House Wine or Draft Beer +$6

FEATURING Roasted Red Pepper Soup Strawberry Gorgonzola Salad Sun Valley Reuben & more!

FLAGSTAFF.LITTLEAMERICA.COM | 928.779.7950

Flagstaff Business News // JUNE 2022

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

’ LET S

EAST HWY 69 & HEATHER HEIGHTS PRESCOTT, AZ

play!

928.776.5695 BUCKYSCASINO.COM

June 2022

Articles inside

Two Men and a Truck Move into Flagstaff