Issuu

INSIDE THE JULY 2025 ISSUE: I-17 Wildlife Overpass to Save Lives p. 4

Sean Openshaw Telling Stories with Images p. 11

Celebrity Cook Kent Rollins Feeds Babbitt Ranches Cowboys p. 6

Fort Tuthill Thunders to Life with Rodeo Action p. 19 Sedona Artist Finds Blessing in ‘Kayenta Curse’ p.27

Tamarah Begay Creating Homes Designed for Diné p. 8

Growing Homelessness, Wildfire Threats Lead to Closure of Little America Trails

By Mary Marini, FBN

ozens of Flagstaff residents and visitors hike the ponderosa pine-lined trails behind Little America each week, but that is expected to change soon amid growing concerns surrounding unauthorized encampments and wildfire risk. In a move to preserve the area and maintain Flagstaff’s natural beauty,

hotel representatives say the trails on the more than 500-acre property will soon be open to Little America hotel guests only. Little America Vice President of Operations Tony O’Brien said they noticed the growing number of illegal camps when they were maintaining the property and repairing fence lines last year. “This is not the direction we originally wanted to go. But it’s important

for fire safety that we don’t allow access to these areas. There have already been four fires south of us this season that caused some damage. We want to make sure we’re doing our part to maintain the forest and that Little America won’t have issues in the future.” Little America has long played a key role in Flagstaff’s tourism economy – creating jobs, hosting events and welcoming thousands of visitors

N OW E K

YO U C A

each year. The resort’s forested trails were originally intended as an amenity for hotel guests but have increasingly become a favorite among locals as well. While the closure may be disappointing to some trail users, O’Brien said overall, residents have supported the decision. “We have been pleasantly surprised by the level of support from our Flagstaff residents. We have Continued on page 34

Navajo Craft Soda: Pop Top, Fizz, Fizz With fizz, flavor and fry bread, the Navajo Blue Travel Plaza is bottling up a unique roadside experience – one artisan soda and monster burger at a time.

Navajo Blue Travel Plaza store Manager Mike Apachee proudly displays a Soo BIG Burgerwith the Fizz Soda bottling room behind him. Photo by Peter Corbett

July 2025 | Issue 6 Volume 18

By Peter Corbett

efrigerators in modern convenience stores and travel centers have wall-towall beverage options. But few if any of them have their own craft sodas brewed in an on-site bottling room. That’s one of the things that makes the Navajo Blue Travel Plaza unique. It bottles eight flavors of Navajo Fizz Craft Soda. Pop the top on a refreshing Pinon Nut Root Beer, Sumac Strawberry or Cherry Lemongrass soda, the three most popular flavors, and enjoy the fizz. How about Peaches and Cream, Navajo Greenthread Tea, Old Fashioned Lemonade, Classic Grape and Juicy Orange? “I really don’t know of any other local craft sodas,” said Lane Schmietenknop, director of food and beverage for the Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise. “It’s the first of its kind for the Navajo Nation. We’re very proud of the quality

of our product. It sets us apart.” Nackard Pepsi started distributing Navajo Fizz last month in the Flagstaff area in 12-ounce bottles and 12-ounce slim cans, Schmietenknop said. The Travel Plaza is adjacent to Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort. Both are just off Interstate 40, about 20 miles east of Flagstaff at Exit 219. The Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise operates the Travel Plaza and four casinos in Arizona and New Mexico. It also has plans to develop a casino on U.S. 89 at a site that includes the now closed Horsemen Lodge steakhouse. The Navajo Blue Travel Plaza has clean bathrooms, showers, laundry, fueling for motorists and truckers, slot machines and sports-betting kiosks in a non-smoking gaming room. The five-year-old facility also looks to set itself apart with its Fire Pit food counter. It Continued on page 37

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To help keep road trips carefree, experts recommend that travelers prepare their vehicle ahead of time. Courtesy photo

Smart Car Tips for Successful Road Trips

By Mary Marini, FBN

ore than 75% of American adults say they’ll take a road trip this summer, according to a survey conducted by The Vacationer. If you are one of those nearly 196 million people who plans to hit the road, whether you’re traveling a short distance or far from home, your vehicle needs to be just as ready as you are, according to the experts. Few things can ruin a trip faster than unexpected car trouble that turns a small issue into a major headache. Findlay Honda Flagstaff General Manager Jacob Lundie shares some must-do tips to get your car road trip ready. He says a little preparation now can save you time, stress and costly repairs down the line.

1. CHECK YOUR ESSENTIAL FLUIDS

Before any long drive, always inspect your vehicle’s fluids. Start with the basics: Oil: Make sure your oil level is good and the oil looks clean. If you’re nearing your next oil change, it’s smart to take care of it before your trip. Coolant: Arizona’s summer heat is brutal on engines. Low or old coolant can lead to overheating, so double-check that your coolant reservoir is filled to the recommended level. Brake Fluid and Transmission Fluid: Top off these critical fluids if they’re low, and watch for any leaks. Windshield Washer Fluid: You’ll be glad you topped this off when bugs start hitting your windshield and splatter! Pro tip: Many local service shops will inspect these fluids during an oil change, so you can knock out two tasks at once.

2. TIRE SAFETY: MORE THAN JUST PRESSURE

Tires are one of the most crucial components for a safe trip, and Arizona’s intense sun can take a toll on them. Before you hit the road: Visual Inspection: Look for cracks, dry rot or other signs of aging.

Tire Pressure: Expect pressure to drop if you’re traveling from higher elevations like Flagstaff to lower regions. Adding a couple of extra PSI can help. Tread Depth: Use the penny test – insert a penny upside down into the tread. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, it’s time for new tires. Tire Age: Check the sidewall for the ‘DOT’ number. The last four digits indicate the week and year the tire was made (e.g., ‘2623’ means week 26 of 2023). In Arizona, tires generally last six to eight years, even if they appear fine. Don’t forget to inspect your spare tire, too. Many people overlook this, but a flat spare is useless in an emergency. Spare tires often require higher PSI, so check your owner’s manual or door jamb sticker for the correct number.

3. ARE YOUR BRAKES ROAD-TRIP READY?

Brakes are your first line of defense on winding mountain roads or stop-and-go traffic. Here’s what to check: Vibrations: If your car shakes when braking, your rotors may be warped. Squealing Sounds: That high-pitched noise is your brakepad’s wear indicator telling you it’s time for replacements. Better to handle brake issues at home than risk problems far from a trusted mechanic.

4. BATTERY HEALTH: BEAT THE HEAT

Arizona’s summer heat is harder on car batteries than winter cold. Signs your battery may be failing include: Slow engine cranking Dim headlights Warning lights on your dashboard A rotten egg smell near the battery If your battery is more than a few years old, it’s wise to have it tested before your trip.

5. EMERGENCY KIT ESSENTIALS

No one plans for breakdowns, but being Continued on page 36

Flagstaff Business News // JULY 2025

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Willard Springs Wildlife Overpass Pumps $15.8 Million into Northern Arizona Economy Construction project creates jobs, supports local businesses

Stacey Wittig, FBN

lods of freshly broken ground and the steady beep-beep of trucks backing up signal progress on the Willard Springs Wildlife Overpass, now under construction on I-17, approximately 15 miles south of Flagstaff. The multi-million project, designed to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions and restore habitat connectivity, is also injecting new energy – and dollars – into the Northern Arizona economy. “This project will pump $15.8 million into the Northern Arizona economy, between wages, material costs and transportation,” said SEMA Construction, Inc. Project Superintendent TK Boyer, the contractor selected for the job. Funded primarily through a Federal Highway Administration Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program grant, the overpass project is part of a national effort to make highways safer for both drivers and wildlife.

LOCAL JOBS, LOCAL DOLLARS

With offices in Flagstaff and Munds Park, SEMA has intentionally structured its workforce and subcontracting strategy to prioritize local hiring and keep dollars circulating in Northern Arizona. “A lot of our labor force is from right here in Northern Arizona,” said Boyer, a Show Low resident raising his family in the region. The current team includes workers from Flagstaff, Wickenburg and other rural Arizona communities. Willard Springs Wildlife Overpass Project Manager and Civil Engineer Clae Rogers also lives in Flagstaff, underscoring SEMA’s commitment to keeping high-paying, skilled positions within the region.

BOOSTING REGIONAL SUPPLIERS From concrete to crane work, Northern Arizona companies are directly benefiting from the project. CEMEX, which operates a batch plant in Flagstaff, is supplying what will total approximately 350 truckloads of concrete. Aggregates are being hauled from CEMEX’s Grey Mountain site and Clarkdale Aggregates in the Verde

SEMA Construction crews work at the Willard Springs Wildlife Overpass project site about 15 miles south of Flagstaff. The project is expected to be completed by fall 2026. Photo by Stacey Wittig

Valley. A trucking company from Pine is moving some materials, supporting local driving jobs in the process. Additional companies with Northern Arizona operations are helping fuel the local economy through their involvement in the project:

Brundage-Bone Concrete Pumping, now with a new Flagstaff branch. Southwest Industrial Rigging, handling heavy lifting out of their Flagstaff office. Paradise Rebar, Inc., based in

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Phoenix and led by a summertime Munds Park resident. White Cap, Flagstaff’s construction supply store. Evergreen Spray Service, a woman-owned Prescott business Continued on page 37

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Celebrity Cowboy Cook Kent Rollins Serves Breakfast at Aso Ranch Camp Babbitt Ranches cowboys fuel up on grits, gravy, bacon and lessons from the chuckwagon

By Bonnie Stevens, FBN

he winds whipped through Aso Ranch Camp north of the San Francisco Peaks at more than 40 miles an hour during Springs Works as cowboys were driving in cattle from the surrounding hills for branding. It was the kind of wind that would steal hats and threaten anything not nailed down. Cowboy Cook Kent Rollins took a moment on this busy Monday morning, May 12, to step away from his stove and drive the long stakes of the fly – the canvas covering over the camp kitchen – deeper into the ground. “We feed cowboys and we’re gonna make sure they get fed well, no matter the conditions in which we’re cooking.” Those familiar with the YouTube sensation know he’s as authentically folksy and sincere as they come. He grew up ranching in Oklahoma, spent time guiding and feeding hunters in

Babbitt Ranches President Billy Cordasco (left) and Ranch Manager Clay Rodgers (right) welcome celebrity Camp Cook Kent Rollins to Aso Ranch Camp North of the San Francisco Peaks. Photos by Bonnie Stevens

New Mexico, and has been cooking for ranches all over the country from his famous Studebaker chuckwagon since 1993. “You can’t get full-on fancy,” reads the back of his trailer. From a lifetime of braving the elements, Rollins has learned to pay atten-

tion to the signs when Mother Nature is about to change her mind. “You’ll see that smoke come down and stay closer to the ground when the weather is about to change,” he explained. “You’ll see everything get real busy.” Continued on page 39

Kent Rollins is famous for his cast iron and Dutch oven cooking. His latest cookbook, “Comfort Food the Cowboy Way,” created with his wife, Shannon, includes a healthy dose of his cowboy philosophy along with trail favorites like Chicken Pot Pie, Pork Posole, Cheesy Sausage Balls and French Toast Casserole.

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Congratulations to our 2025 Health First Foundation Grant Recipients Polara Health

Flagstaff Shelter Services

Whole Person Care for Infants Through Adolescents

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Building Brighter Futures: Expanding the Children’s Studio to Transform Mental Health

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Business Woman FBN

of the Month

Architect Tamarah Begay Creates Homes Built on Navajo, By Navajo, For Navajo

Left: Tamarah Begay has owned Indigenous Design Studio and Architecture for 13 years. Right: The new homes will incorporate many of the same ideas used in hogans, Begay says. “We’ll include our principles of our connections with the sky and earth. Local plants, vegetation and colors will also be used.”

By Stan Bindell, FBN

amarah Begay, one of the few indigenous women licensed architects, is collaborating with ZenniHome to bring 160 native designed homes to the Navajo Nation by the end of the year. About 20 are being manufactured at the factory and the first one will soon be placed in Window Rock so people can see it. Most of the chapter houses will get at least one of these prototype homes. There are about 115 chapter houses in Arizona and New Mexico. A Navajo housing department will select

who will live in these homes. “We’re doing the site work now and each of these homes will be on a foundation,” she said. The project is supported by ARPA and the funds will not be affected by budget cutbacks because they have already been allocated. Each unit will cost about $295,000. The homes are 1,280 square feet and are considered midsize homes. All the homes are near utilities such as water and will be all electric. Some may need septic systems. Begay, who has owned Indigenous Design Studio and Architecture (IDSA)

// “I started thinking about how about how culture, language and tradition could be brought into my work,” she said. “We think about the fourlegged and the two-legged beings, so we want to minimize our impact. We don’t want to overgrow or overdevelop.” //

for 13 years, said these traditionally designed homes will provide housing and jobs for her Navajo people. The homes will incorporate many of the ideas of hogans. “We’ll include our principles of our connections with the sky and earth,” she said. “Local plants, vegetation and colors will also be used.” During the colder months on Navajo, warmth is needed, so the homes will also have traditional wood stoves. Begay said the modular units will be durable and have materials that can be purchased at nearby stores like Home Depot. Most ZenniHomes have beds that fold out from the ceiling, but that is not traditional, so these homes will not have that. “The question is what do the people who will live in these homes want? We want to give them what’s needed so we will have options,” she said. In addition, the homes will be prepped for solar in case that is an option in the future. Begay says the intention is to bring generational value, as the homes will appreciate over time. And taxes from

the homes will be used within the Navajo communities. “This is built on Navajo by Navajos for Navajos.” She says 82% of the employees are indigenous, with 174 out of 211 employees being Native American. Most of them worked for Navajo Generating Station before it closed down. Begay connected with ZenniHome about two years ago. “I see it as a great opportunity. I see the prospects growing. Other tribes will see this and want to use this because it redefines modular homes.” Begay wanted to be an architect at a young age and followed that dream as she earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in architecture from the University of New Mexico. She worked at non-indigenous and indigenous architecture firms before starting IDSA. Begay’s grandmother was a medicine woman who emphasized respect for the planet. “I started thinking about how about how culture, language and tradition could be brought into my work,” she said. “We think about the four-legged and the two-legged beings, so we want

to minimize our impact. We don’t want to overgrow or overdevelop. If everyone had followed that, we would not be talking about climate change. But planning takes time, and I started working with the pueblos because they understood that respect.” People have been impressed with her architectural work without knowing it was her. “They would say, ‘Who did that?’ and someone would point to me. They would say, ‘huh,’ because I was not their stereotype of an architect.” Begay is proud that IDSA has indigenous designers. She was also the first licensed Navajo female architect and remains one of eight indigenous female architects in the world. She was recently appointed by New Mexico’s governor to the state’s Architectural Registration Board. Begay, who grew up in Iyanbito, a small community outside of Gallup, is an adjunct professor at UNM. She teaches students about architectural design and takes pride in mentoring the students. “The best part of my job is solving problems in the community.” FBN

JULY 2025 // Flagstaff Business News

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The groundbreaking ceremony for The Villas on Shelby included representatives from the City of Sedona, HS Development Partners, Arizona Department of Housing, Athena Studio and Wespac Residential, Inc.

Wespac Breaks Ground on The Villas on Shelby, Sedona’s First Affordable Housing Development Funded by Tax Credits

espac Residential, Inc. is proud to announce the groundbreaking of The Villas on Shelby, marking a significant step forward for affordable housing in Sedona. As the general contractor on this transformative project, Wespac joins project partners HS Development Partners, the City of Sedona, Athena Studio and the Arizona Department of Housing (ADOH) in celebrating the beginning of construction on what will be Sedona’s first-ever affordable housing community funded through federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits. Set on a 1.2-acre site acquired by the City of Sedona, The Villas on Shelby will be a three-story apartment complex offering 30 affordable rental homes, including 24 one-bedroom units and six three-bedroom units. Designed with both functionality and community in mind, the development will include covered parking, a community room with a kitchen, a fitness room, a playground and elevator access. It will also feature future-ready infrastructure with stubs in place for electric vehicle charging stations. The Villas on Shelby is being funded by federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits, along

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with an investment from the State Housing Trust Fund, part of Gov. Katie Hobbs’ allocation toward addressing Arizona’s housing crisis. Keon Montgomery, ADOH Assistant Deputy Director, spoke at the ceremony and highlighted the importance of this funding in bringing affordable housing to Sedona for the first time through this federal program. Ian Fawley, senior project manager at Wespac Residential, Inc., noted the significance of the moment. “This project is a testament to what can be achieved through strong partnerships and a commitment to community impact. We’re proud to bring this development to life in Sedona, where the need is urgent and the outcome will directly benefit residents who help make this city thrive,” Fawley said. Construction is underway, with completion and tenant move-in scheduled for May 2026. The Villas on Shelby stands as a symbol of progress and collaboration, and a promising step toward a more accessible future for the Sedona community. FBN Rendering courtesy of Athena Studio.

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This rendering offers the vision for The Villas on Shelby, expected to be move-in ready in May 2026. Courtesy photos

JULY 2025 // Flagstaff Business News

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

Sean Openshaw Lives Life in Focus With a camera and compassion, Flagstaff photographer captures the moments that shape lives

Healthcare (NAH) Creative Communications Department, I produce photos and videos for the hospital’s marketing and storytelling projects. I get to work with patients, colleagues and the community,” he said. “I love my job.” “What has struck me most significantly about Sean as a professional and a creative is his innate ability to set othome might say the photography ers at ease, whether he has known them and cinematography of Sean for five years or five minutes,” said Openshaw is an extension of his winsome personality. “My family is my Northern Arizona Healthcare Creative Communications Department Director inspiration,” he said. Andrew Paffrath. “His knack for In his 35 years of professional phoforging relationships almost instantly, tography, Openshaw’s resume is reads like a novel of accomplishments. It’s an of course, shows up in his work in the exhaustive list of serving in the military form of candid, honest images.” Openshaw says waking up in the wee and working for newspapers and maghours of the morning is the only way azines – beginning as chief photographer for The State Press (Arizona State he can get done all that he has to do. “I University newspaper) and moving on grew up milking cows in Montana at to chief staff photographer for Arizona 3 a.m. and these days, I’m pretty much up by 2:30 a.m. I’m used to it, and I Daily Sun. don’t need an alarm.” Today, alongside his photography Openshaw’s lengthy list of clients and video business, which his website calls “Openshaw Storytelling,” he works includes Northern Arizona University, Coconino and Flagstaff high schools, full time at Northern Arizona HealthFlagstaff Youth Hockey Association, care as the senior visual communicaBASIS, Girls on the Run, Summit tions specialist. “Working under Northern Arizona Continued on page 35

Long-time Flagstaff Photographer Sean Openshaw begins his day at 2:30 a.m., he says, to fit in everything he wants to do. Photo by V. Tierney Fresh Focuses Photography

Flagstaff Business News // JULY 2025

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Prescott’s Winebelly Vineyard Tours Offers a Carefree Taste of the Verde Valley Stops include a kayaking winery and dog-friendly brewery By Bonnie Stevens, FBN

hile touring the country in their RV during the pandemic, Rebekah, a hairstylist, and Ross, a mechanic, marveled at the natural beauty they encountered when they arrived in Arizona. The McClures were so enamored that they sold their house in Austin, Texas, and moved to Prescott. “We were both wondering what we could do next,” said Rebekah. With her mom as a travel agent, Rebekah had always thought being a tour guide would be fun. “We knew that tours in Austin would take people on an hour-and-a-half drive to visit vineyards in Fredericksburg. The lightbulb came on when we realized such a tour from Prescott to the Verde Valley wine country didn’t exist. We could buy a bus. Ross is a mechanic and I’m a people person!” Voila! Winebelly Vineyard Tours rolled onto the scene in December

Rebekah and Ross McClure were so inspired by Arizona’s natural beauty that they moved to Prescott, bought a tour bus and started Winebelly Vineyard Tours. Courtesy photos

2023. Very soon, the couple learned their guided vineyard adventures appealed to a large demographic: couples looking for something different to do; desert dwellers escaping the summer heat; friends celebrating birthdays; and ladies raising a glass at

bachelorette parties. But getting the men involved was a challenge. “The guys wanted to know if these places serve anything other than wine,” said Rebekah. So, Winebelly stretched to include Beerbelly and poured into its marketing efforts with

Winebelly Vineyard Tours invited media representatives to explore the Verde Valley’s breweries and vineyards.

the help of Northern AZ Social owner and marketing strategist Donna Werking. Today, tours begin and end outside of the Back Alley Wine Bar on downtown Prescott’s Whiskey Row and last five to eight hours. “We try to spend

an hour at each location so our riders can explore the winery, enjoy a brewery tour, get a bite to eat and, of course, sample different beers and wines,” said Rebekah. On a recent tour with media repreContinued on page 36

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Moonshot Launches Summer Celebration with Tours, Speakers, Workshops, Sustainable Practices

oonshot, a leading Arizona innovation hub, will host its annual open house and BBQ, “The Summer Launch Party,” on Aug. 7, welcoming campus tenants and the public to explore the entrepreneurial ecosystem that has been fostering innovation in Arizona for more than 20 years. This year’s event marks the first time Moonshot will host the Going Green and Going Smart Summit, organized by Compass CBS Foundation in partnership with Arizona Public Service (APS). The summit focuses on sustainable business practices and energy-saving strategies for small businesses. “We’re excited to combine our annual campus celebration with a sustainability focus that aligns with the innovative spirit of our entrepreneurs,” said Moonshot President and CEO Scott Hathcock. “The partnership with APS and Compass CBS Foundation brings valuable resources to our community.” After attracting more than 100 attendees last year, organizers expect an even larger turnout for this expanded event. The Summer Launch Party will

showcase Moonshot’s Flagstaff campus facilities, including office spaces and manufacturing areas designed specifically for entrepreneurs. The half-day Going Green and Going Smart Summit portion will feature expert speakers, panel discussions on implementing sustainable practices, and information about APS programs that help businesses reduce their carbon footprint while saving on energy costs. “We are committed to empowering small business owners with the tools and knowledge to make sustainable decisions that benefit the environment and their bottom lines,” said APS Vice President of External Affairs Stacy Derstine. “We’re excited to bring the Going Green and Going Smart Summit to Northern Arizona, where we will provide innovative solutions and resources to help businesses reduce energy use and encourage a more efficient future.” “The Summit represents our commitment to building a sustainable future for Arizona’s small businesses,” said Compass CBS Foundation Executive Director Dr. Tanya Ospitale. “Partnering with Moonshot allows

us to reach innovative entrepreneurs who are shaping the future of our state’s economy.”

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

Campus tours showcasing resident startups Sustainability speakers and panels Business workshops and keynotes – such as legal, accounting, AI and marketing Networking opportunities with entrepreneurs and industry experts BBQ lunch featuring Will’s Grill, Marlee’s Lemonde and ScoopN’ Mobile Ice Cream Moonshot operates the Flagstaff campus in partnership with the City of Flagstaff. The organization has a dual mission of helping subject matter experts bring products to market and assisting rural Arizona cities in developing entrepreneurial ecosystems that create jobs. FBN

To learn more and register for The Summer Launch Party and Going Green and Going Smart Summit, go to https://www. moonshotflagstaff.com/2025-campusopen-house.

The annual open house and BBQ welcomes campus tenants and the public to explore the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Courtesy photo

The event will run from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Moonshot’s Flagstaff Campus, 2225 N. Gemini Dr. The event is free and open to the public. Registration is recommended.

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‘Limitless’ Keynote Teaches How to Be Unstoppable International leadership strategist to headline 2025 Prescott ATHENA Awards with powerful leadership message

“

By Bonnie Stevens, FBN

We’re not born unstoppable,” says global leadership strategist, bestselling author and performance coach Holland Haiis. “We become it.” Haiis, a human connection expert based in New York City, is scheduled to deliver the keynote address at the 2025 Prescott ATHENA Awards, 3 to 5 p.m., Friday, Sept. 12, at Starting Point in downtown Prescott. “Even the most driven performers face resistance, fear and selfdoubt,” she said. “The difference? High-achievers use intentional, science-backed tools to break through those internal barriers and stay in forward motion.” One of the problems, she says, is that many of us are thrown into leadership roles before we are equipped. “How can we lead 50 when we’ve never led 1?” A nationally recognized expert in

With a reputation for transforming the way individuals and organizations lead from within, Haiis will present her keynote, “Limitless: What Makes You Unstoppable,” at the Prescott ATHENA Awards. The talk is designed to empower attendees with sciencebased tools for unlocking internal validation, ditching self-doubt and replacing inner resistance with intentional ritual. Courtesy photo

leadership development, Haiis works with C-suite executives, Fortune 500 companies and organizations navigating cultural shifts in multi-

generational workplaces. Her insights into self-leadership, team communication and workplace well-being have helped individuals from every level of

leadership build conscious habits that fuel long-term success. “We are living with volatility and uncertainty, and we have an incredibly anxious workplace that includes five very different generations,” she said. “We have to learn how to drop anchor in ourselves to get to our internal power before steadying the ship for others – whether that’s in the boardroom, the classroom, on a jury or around the family dinner table.” In “Limitless: What Makes You

Unstoppable,” Haiis will share actionable strategies to help attendees: Unlock internal validation that doesn’t depend on permission; Uncover the facts – ditch the fiction that keeps people stuck; and, Replace inner resistance with intentional ritual. “You’ll walk away with a framework to move from friction to flow and a mindset that doesn’t flinch,” she said. The ATHENA Leadership Awards, inspired by the Greek goddess of wisdom and courage, recognizes individuals who strive toward the highest levels of excellence in their profession, while mentoring others and giving back to the community. Nominations are being accepted now for three categories: ATHENA Leadership, Young Professional Leadership and Organizational Leadership. Early registration is encouraged as seating is limited. Attendees also will receive $100 off Haiis’ online course, “Recalibrate and Reboot,” which includes downloadable tools designed for real-time implementation in teams, families and community leadership roles. For nomination forms and tickets, visit prescottathena.com. FBN

Cutting-Edge Shoulder Surgery Now Available in Northern Arizona Northern Arizona Orthopaedics (NAO) and Dr. Yuri Lewicky are among a select few in the world offering an innovative all-arthroscopic shoulder reconstruction using donated bone and cartilage. This advanced procedure—Arthroscopic Distal Tibial Allograft Bone Augmentation with Cerclage Fixation—rebuilds the shoulder socket using the end of a donor shin bone, eliminating the need for metal implants or harvesting the patient’s own bone. Ideal for patients with severe glenoid bone loss and chronic shoulder instability, this minimally invasive technique uses a tensioned suture-based fixation, preserving natural anatomy while reducing recovery time and complications. “This groundbreaking procedure offers new hope for patients needing more than traditional surgical options,” says Dr. Lewicky, shoulder specialist at NAO. Northern Arizona Orthopaedics With locations in Flagstaff, Prescott Valley, and the White Mountains, NAO provides comprehensive orthopedic care with over 50 years of trusted experience.

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// BUSINESS CENTS // BY BONNIE STEVENS, FBN

Why Peter Frampton Continues to Show Me the Way

or those of us who remember Peter Frampton as a trailblazing red-headed musical icon of the 1970s, I am delighted to say that 50 years later, this talented guitarist and singer/songwriter continues to bring crowds to their feet – not only for that weird electronic thing he does with his voice – but also for what he shows us in character. On his “Let’s Do It Again” tour, which landed in Phoenix in June, my husband, Rich, and I watched in shock and sadness as the rocker need-

ed a cane to make his way to his seat on stage. Where was that signature red mane and why did he look so old? A quick Google search told us that he has a rare, progressive neurologic disorder, inclusion body myositis (IBM), that causes inflammation and weakens muscles – muscles like guitar-playing arms and hands and fingers. But after we got past our horror about this awful condition that was trying to rob this lovely man of a gift that has brought so much joy to the world, we realized he wasn’t sad

// When we recognize that we are all battling something, we can think of Frampton and choose to show up like a rock star by pouring out our talent for others, leading with kindness and choosing to live our best life. So, when Peter Frampton gets up on stage and asks, “Do You Feel Like I Do?” we can honestly scream back, “YES!” //

at all. He was having a blast up there on stage. In fact, the love for his craft filled the auditorium. And that’s when I realized his tour is as much about inspiration and leadership as it is about the music. Here’s how Peter Frampton continues to “Show Me the Way.”

HE CHOOSES TO LIVE FULLY

For a good part of his life, Frampton has been making music, touring the world and connecting with his fans. At 75 years old, with a debilitating disease, he is making music, touring the world and connecting with his fans. Right now, he is working on a new album with his son, Julian, slated for release in January.

HE IS LIVING HIS PASSION

Was it just me or did he look like he was genuinely having the time of his life, playing his many guitars, enjoying the other musicians and engaging with the audience. You can tell when a performer is just going through the motions to get through another stop. He clearly was not.

HE SURROUNDS HIMSELF WITH TALENTED PEOPLE AND ALLOWS THEM TO SHINE

To me, that is the hallmark of true confidence and generosity: sharing the spotlight with younger and lesser-known individuals who may well or may soon be able to out-perform you!

HE INSPIRES OTHERS BY WORKING HARD AND LAUGHING A LOT

According to The Myositis Association, Frampton exercises six days a week to push back against the progressive disease. “His courage and good humor have been an incredibly energizing force,” said TMA Executive Director Paula Eichenbrenner, according to an article posted on myositis.org.

HE IS DRIVEN BY KINDNESS At the end of the performance, he talked about his illness, noting that we are all fighting something. This inclusion body myositis just happens to be his “some-

thing.” During his acceptance speech at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony last October and on his tour, he spoke about his diagnosis and how it made him appreciate life more and want to promote the importance of kindness. “Kindness is king!” he says. When we recognize that we are all battling something, we can think of Frampton and choose to show up like a rock star by pouring out our talent for others, leading with kindness and choosing to live our best life. So, when Peter Frampton gets up on stage and asks, “Do You Feel Like I Do?” we can honestly scream back, “YES!” FBN

Bonnie Stevens is the editor of FBN. She is a career journalist and public relations consultant. She can be reached at bonnie. stevens@gmail.com.

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Retired Arizona Snowbowl General Manager Rob Linde says the ski industry has changed over the years with safer and higher performing gear and equipment, but the people haven’t. “They have a passion for skiing and snowboarding.” Courtesy photo

Arizona Snowbowl GM Rob Linde Bids Farewell After Eight Years of Innovation

By Bonnie Stevens, FBN

f Rob Linde’s career were a ski race, the peaks would far overshadow the valleys, and the path would be a loop that starts and finishes with Arizona Snowbowl. As general manager for the last eight years, Rob Linde is stepping away from Arizona’s highest mountain with fond memories of Flagstaff and his Arizona Snowbowl family. Among the ski resort’s many accomplishments during his tenure, he is most proud of the ultramodern Arizona Gondola, well-managed growth, dramatic increase in the kids’ Snowburners program, overall guest experience and “outstanding” management team that he calls “second to none.” “The Arizona Gondola is such a showpiece, and it really makes the mountain more accessible to all people, both in summer and in winter,” he said. “It took a 20- to 30-minute ride and turned it into a 7- to 9-minute ride, so people got to ski more. It also dramatically decreased lift lines. It is such a state-of-the-art lift and there aren’t that many of them in the country.” Linde cites Snowbowl’s demand-based pricing model for managing the ski resort’s tremendous growth. “This allowed us to control demand at certain peak periods and keep pricing low for more visitation during traditionally slow periods of time – like midweek. The demand-based pricing model is really very innovative and progressive for our industry. I don’t think anyone is doing it the way we did with such success.” Another accomplishment he is delighted about is the popularity of Snowburners, a six-week lesson program for kids ages 4–12 to build skiing or snowboarding skills. “When I first came here, there were about a dozen kids in that program. Now, there are more than 400

kids! I think it’s really important to bring kids to the mountain and grow the future of the sport – it’s good for the community, it’s good for families and it is a reflection of what we are trying to accomplish at Snowbowl – getting kids on skis and boards and bringing families together in healthy outdoor recreational activities.” The guest experience has really improved, too. “We are very guest focused. From our online ticketing and online food and beverage ordering system to our Guest Services and the artistry exhibited on the slopes by our incredible groomers, people don’t realize what goes on behind the scenes to create such a wonderful guest experience. It’s so unusual for a mid-sized ski resort in Arizona to be as innovative as Snowbowl is. We really are industry leaders!” Linde began his career in the ski industry as a Snowbowl instructor in the late 1970s, while attending Northern Arizona University. “I quickly discovered that this was what I wanted to do – to be in the ski industry.” His Snowbowl experience was a launching pad for positions at Vail, Beaver Creek and Eldora in Colorado. He also worked for the National Ski Areas Association and RCC, a leading ski industry research and consulting firm. “It was really fun to be able to complete my career at Snowbowl and circle back to where it all started.” “Rob has been an integral part of creating the highly engaged and positive culture on the mountain while ushering in leading industry innovations, promoting safety for employees and guests as the utmost priority, fostering a strong connection with the community and making it fun to work at Snowbowl,” said General Manager Ryan Hartl. “Under his leadership, we have been able to accomplish Continued on page 36

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Flagstaff Business News // JULY 2025

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Phase One Construction on Northern Arizona Healthcare’s Summit Center Project Commences

orthern Arizona Healthcare officials say construction has begun at the Summit Center in central Flagstaff.The project is a complete interior remodel and expansion at 1485 N. Turquoise Drive. This phase of the construction is scheduled to last 18 months, with the first patient being seen by mid-fall 2026.

PHASE ONE INCLUDES:

New and expanded Operating Rooms and Pain Procedure Rooms Dedicated prep and recovery space for Pain Procedure Rooms New and expanded Sterile Processing Department New surgery check-in and waiting space New Wound Clinic with Hyperbaric Chamber Treatment capabilities New EntireCare Rehab & Sports Medicine Physical Therapy location Additional physician clinic/exam capacity Expanded parking capacity The plans include a 6,000-square-

foot addition to the existing building. Two additional phases will take place between fall 2026 and spring 2028. Even though construction will be underway at the Summit Center, the facility is still open for scheduled surgeries and services, and will continue to be open for the duration of the construction period. This project is the beginning of NAH reimagining the outpatient environment that was originally planned for the Ambulatory Care Center at Fort Tuthill and responding to community feedback about keeping some outpatient health care services centrally located. In keeping with NAH’s original plans for Fort Tuthill, NAH officials say consideration for the environment is being taken in the development to ensure that the building will be more sustainable and energy efficient than it currently is now. “We are pleased to announce the commencement of the phase one construction for NAH’s Summit Center project,” said Northern Arizona Healthcare CEO Dave Cheney. “We believe it’s important to invest in the community and that includes invest-

The facility north of the hospital remains open for patients as the 6,000-square-foot expansion is under construction. Courtesy photo

ing in our facilities. This new project gives residents of Northern Arizona easily accessible new services. We

are confident that these facilities will support the needs of our patients and the communities we serve.” FBN

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JULY 2025 // Flagstaff Business News

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Flagstaff Rodeo Ropes in Fans with Broncs, Bulls, Mounted Shooting By V. Ronnie Tierney, FBN

un meters were bursting and cheers topped the scales at the 12th annual Flagstaff Rodeo, which took place from June 5-7 at Fort Tuthill County Park. Built from the ground up by an all-volunteer nonprofit team, the Flagstaff Pro Rodeo is the product of a lot of hard work. “It was a tireless effort of late nights and shared dreams,” said Flagstaff Pro Rodeo President Kristen Daulton. “Every barrel race, bull ride, mounted shoot and rodeo queen coronation is brought to life by individuals who believe in preserving Western heritage and creating unforgettable experiences for our town.” The events included Retro Family Night on Thursday, First Responders’ Night on Friday and a free Cowboy Mounted Shooters Association (CMSA) event on Saturday morning, with 10 kids and 50 adults participating from around Arizona, including the Salty Shooters of Flagstaff. Saturday’s Stars N Stripes Night was followed by live music from the

Flagstaff Pro Rodeo President Kristen Daulton hits her target with a successful event and in mounted shooting. Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

Western Fusion Band from Phoenix. “The 2025 Flagstaff Rodeo was one for the books,” said retired Phoenix Fire Captain Kevin Westfall, who has attended the rodeo for eight years as part of a family get-to-

gether. “Some of the most talented cowboys and cowgirls we’ve ever seen took the arena by storm delivering an unforgettable show. As always, the highlight didn’t stop with the rodeo, Saturday’s rodeo dance was a blast

Little mutton busters hung onto their woolly friends.

with the Western Fusion Band that lit up the night and kept the crowd on their feet. The Westfalls are already counting the days until next year’s gathering.” Daulton and her husband

AHCCCS was awarded a grant by SAMHSA, and has partnered with Arizona Complete Health, Arizona State University, and The Guidance Center to carry out activities aimed at serving pregnant and postpartum women with substance use disorders (SUD), especially those struggling with opioid use.

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launched the Salty Shooters last year. “This was our very first event and it exceeded our expectations. There was camaraderie, excitement and pure Western magic. It reaffirmed everything we believe in –

Continued on page 38

Moms and Babies is made possible by SAMHSA Grant 1H79TI087171-01. Views expressed here do not necessarily reflect the official policies or contractual requirements of the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) or the Department of Health and Human Services; nor does it mention trade names, commercial practices, or organizations imply endorsements by the U.S. Government.

Flagstaff Business News // JULY 2025

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// MAYOR’S ADDRESS // BY BECKY DAGGETT

Potential Harm to Our Community’s Priorities Through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

s I’ve written here before, city staff and council pay close attention to legislation at the state and federal levels. Based on the needs of the community, the council determines our annual legislative policies and tracks bills that impact those priorities. We remain in regular communication with state and federal representatives throughout the legislative sessions and visit with them at least once a year. These relationships are important to ensure we’re weighing in on legislation and advocating for the needs of Flagstaff residents. We’ve had success in securing support and funding for forest health, flood mitigation, transportation infrastructure, water projects, airport infrastructure, climate action and public safety. Potential harm to the community’s priorities have led me personally and through my professional affiliations, and the council as a whole, to weigh in on several elements of the reconciliation bill known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act after it was passed

in the House of Representatives on May 22 by a one vote margin. At that time, I was concerned about several elements of the bill and requested that staff prepare an opposition letter for Senate leadership, to which the council unanimously agreed. The first of two elements we opposed was the repeal of any unobligated funding from key programs in the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), while also making significant cuts to the Department of Energy’s budget. Our letter stated that these changes would hinder innovation, grant opportunities and technical assistance for cities like Flagstaff, weakening economic development across Arizona and forcing the state to abandon critical infrastructure and clean energy projects that were poised to create jobs. The Act would also repeal residential clean energy and energy efficiency credits, which would directly affect community members’ ability to make their homes more efficient, healthy and comfortable. It

would also negatively impact small businesses in the energy sector. In addition to the harmful impacts to clean energy, our letter spoke to the abolishment of the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) State Rental Assistance Block Grant, effectively ending federal rental assistance and public housing formula grants, putting Flagstaff low-income renters and families at greater risk. We then sent a letter to Arizona Senators Gallego and Kelly and Congressional District 2 Congressman Crane urging them to preserve HUD’s funding for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) programs. In the last program year, 955 local low-income individuals benefited from CDBG-funded projects and services, most of whom have a household income at or below 30% of the Area Median Income. When the reconciliation bill reached the Senate, Utah Senator Mike Lee, chair of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee

spearheaded a provision to make millions of acres of public land available for sale. Recognizing the disastrous impact of such a move, I again asked staff to prepare a letter of opposition, which the City Council unanimously supported sending. To our relief, the provision was stripped from the bill by the Senate’s parliamentarian, but the Senator has already indicated he plans to propose a smaller number of acres for sale. There are other provisions in the House version of the bill that are cause for concern, including cuts of nearly $300 billion from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as food stamps – a lifeline that helps people in our community keep food on the table. Arizona SNAP participants currently average less than $6 a day in benefits, and roughly 25,000 people right here in Congressional District 2 are at risk to lose some SNAP benefits, while an additional 14,000 are at risk

to lose all. The specter of these cuts to this important program led me to partner with Ethan Amos, president and CEO of the Flagstaff Family Food Center, to write an opinion piece calling out the potentially disastrous local impact. As I write this, the Senate is set to vote on their amended version and send it back to the House. Ultimately, both the House and Senate must agree on the same version. Everything I read indicates the bill won’t have any Democratic support but is likely to pass with most of both House and Senate Republicans in support. I’ll keep actively engaged in legislation impacting our community and will always advocate for what, after careful study, I believe to be in our best interest. I appreciate hearing from you about your thoughts on local policies, so please always feel free to reach out. FBN

Becky Daggett is the mayor of Flagstaff.

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JULY 2025 // Flagstaff Business News

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Understanding Your Hearing Exam Results

By Jeff Lane, Au.D.

he first step on any hearing health journey is undergoing an examination. This exam provides you and the audiologist an understanding of your current state of hearing and allows for proper recommendations to be made. The findings are presented in a report called an audiogram. An audiogram contains both a written section and a graph. While the audiologist does review the audiogram during the appointment, it can sometimes be difficult to remember or fully grasp how to interpret your results. Proper interpretation is imperative, as it empowers you to take an equal part in treatment.

HEARING THRESHOLDS

Hearing thresholds are presented graphically on the audiogram. The x-axis of the graph (left to right) represents frequency. Frequency is interpreted by humans as pitch, with increasing frequency corresponding with increasing pitch. Pitch increases from left to right along the x-axis. Thus, the left half of the audiogram would represent bass, while the right half would be treble. An average exam will test frequencies between 250 and 8,000 Hz. While human hearing can detect frequencies above and below this range, these are the most important for daily communication. The y-axis (top to bottom) represents intensity as measured in decibels hearing level (dB HL). On this scale, 0 dB HL does not represent the absence of sound, but rather the quietest sound that the average adult can hear. Intensity is interpreted

by humans as loudness. A higher decibel level corresponds to a louder sound. Quiet sounds are at the top of the graph, while very loud sounds are at the bottom of the graph. Your ears function both as combined and independent systems. A such, the audiologist will want to test the respective performance of each ear. The hearing thresholds for the right ear are represented by circles or triangles, while the left ear thresholds are exes or squares. Hearing thresholds are the quietest sound you can hear at a given frequency. For example, the right ear threshold at 1k Hz may be 20 dB HL. This would mean that at that specific frequency, the right ear can hear the sound when it is 20 dB HL or louder, but not below that level. This will hold true for the threshold of each respective frequency – 20 dB HL is considered to be the cutoff for normal hearing, with 21 dB HL and higher representing increasing degrees of hearing loss.

SPEECH UNDERSTANDING

Another main component of a hearing exam is speech testing. Speech test results may be found in numerical form in a box usually located at the bottom of the page. Two main speech tests are typically performed. The first is the speech recognition threshold (SRT). It represents the quietest level at which you can understand speech 50% of the time. The SRT mainly functions as a way to verify accuracy within the test battery.

A measurement that is more relevant to daily communication performance is the word recognition score (WRS). Your WRS represents how well your brain can interpret speech sounds and is reported as the percentage of words repeated correctly. When measuring the WRS, the words are presented at a loudness level that is easy for the patient to hear. A high WRS means you can understand words well, while a lower WRS means that the brain has difficulty interpreting the speech sound because of distortion in the auditory system.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THRESHOLDS AND SPEECH UNDERSTANDING

One important concept to understand is that your hearing thresholds and ability

to understand speech are not necessarily correlated. Better hearing thresholds do not always mean a better WRS, nor do worse thresholds always mean a worse WRS. Indeed, two individuals may have the exact same hearing thresholds, yet drastically different abilities to understand what is being said. What then, influences your WRS? It all has to do with the frequency filters in your ears. Each speech sound has a different fundamental frequency. Sounds like “shh” have a higher frequency than “oo” would. When sound is picked up by your ears, it is sent through specially designed filters to help separate out all the speech sounds. As more damage occurs to the auditory system, those filters become less precise and overlap with each other. Thus, “shh” and “oo” may appear to your brain to be coming from the same filter and it has difficulty distinguishing them. While many factors are taken into account when deciding treatment, test results are a main one. By possessing a greater understanding of your results, you can feel confident in the decisions being made. 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 // JULY 2025

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A Firefighter’s Perspective on Firewise Gardening By Misti Warner-Andersen

ne of the many joys of living in Northern Arizona is being surrounded by the beauty of ponderosa pines and aspens. Our forests offer peaceful trails, vibrant wildlife and a stunning landscape to call home. But living in the forest also means accepting the responsibility of wildfire risk. Although this year’s prediction is that Flagstaff will experience a normal monsoon season (which officially started June 15), we are coming off one of the driest winters on record. High temps, low moisture and windy weather have already caused the City of Flagstaff and Coconino County to enact Stage Two fire restrictions.

WHY FIREWISE GARDENING MATTERS

While it may feel counterintuitive to focus on wildfire during monsoon season, it’s actually an ideal time to prepare. Creating a “defensible” or “survivable” space around your home through smart landscaping can make all the difference when fire threatens. The idea is simple: reduce the likelihood of your home igniting from wind-driven embers or creeping ground flames. You do this by

selecting fire-resistant plants, spacing them wisely, and eliminating “ladder fuels” – those flammable layers that help fire climb from ground to treetop.

FROM WARNER’S NURSERY CREW TO WILDFIRE SPECIALIST

One new local business that’s bringing a firefighter’s perspective to home protection is Advanced Fire Defense, founded this year by Flagstaff resident Mike Felts. Mike got his first summer job 27 years ago as a member of Warner’s plant and delivery crew. He went on to be a firefighter and is now a captain with 19 years of service and Mike Felts a certification as a Wildfire Mitigation Specialist. “At Advanced Fire Defense, Advanced Fire Defense offers we strive to protect our neighborcertified home inspections to assess hoods by empowering homeownwildfire vulnerabilities, connects ers to take proactive steps against homeowners to trusted contractors wildfire risks,” he said. “Through to address problem areas, and is a professional firefighter-led solutions distributor and applicator of Komodo that truly work, we help build more Fire Retardant, an eco-friendly treatresilient communities with shared ment that protects trees, fences and protection strategies, offering peace plants until it’s washed away by three of mind through proven preparainches of moisture. tion.”

Mike’s number one piece of advice to keep your home firewise? “Concentrate heavily on the immediate 0 to 5 feet zone – meaning the home itself and five feet around it.” He suggests measures to prevent embers from penetrating a home, such as 1/8” mesh on all attic and crawlspace vents. Keeping gutters and roofs clean of debris is also key to protecting your home. “From a landscape perspective, use fire-resistant materials to create a five-foot barrier around the home,” he added. “Landscape rock, sidewalks or brick pathways are a great example of this. Use green, high-moisture plants and plant them in spaced groups if near exterior walls. Lastly, keep the yard clean and clear of heavy debris and pine needles, and keep native grasses mowed to 4 to 6 inches.”

live in harmony with it safely. With thoughtful plant selection, strategic design and regular upkeep, your property can be both gorgeous and resilient. If you have questions about Firewise plants or would like personalized guidance, please stop by and see us at Warner’s Nursery. And if you’re ready to take the next step in home protection, reach out to Mike and his team at Advanced Fire Defense. Together, we can build a safer, stronger, fire-resilient community, without giving up the beauty of our forest home. Happy (and safe) gardening! FBN

YOU DON’T HAVE TO SACRIFICE BEAUTY FOR SAFETY

The goal of firewise gardening isn’t to remove the nature you love, it’s to

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.

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JULY 2025 // Flagstaff Business News

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Explore, Dream, Discover with Avenues of the World Travel: Exciting News for Flagstaff Travelers

By Daniela Harrison

ello, Flagstaff travel lovers! At Avenues of the World Travel, we are excited to share updates and opportunities to inspire your next adventure and make planning effortless – whether it is a historic European cruise, an Amazon expedition or a meaningful fundraiser voyage.

NEW UK ELECTRONIC TRAVEL AUTHORIZATION (ETA)

As of Jan. 8, 2025, travelers to the United Kingdom must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arrival. This simple online process enhances border security and smooths entry for visa-exempt visitors, including U.S. citizens planning trips to England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland. To learn more or apply, visit www.gov.uk/eta.

2026 FUNDRAISER CRUISES: CHANGING LIVES THROUGH TRAVEL

7-Night Paris and Normandy River Cruise on AmaWaterways (March 21-28, 2026)

Sail the Seine River from romantic Paris to historic Normandy, with luxury accommodations, French cuisine and immersive excursions. Avenues of the World Travel, together with AmaWaterways, will be donating a combined $300 per person to High Country Humane, helping animals in our community while you explore iconic sites and charming villages. 7-Night Adriatic Cruise on Ponant (June 18-25, 2026) Discover breathtaking Adriatic coasts from Dubrovnik to Split aboard Ponant’s elegant ship. Avenues of the World Travel will be donating $250 per person to the Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra, supporting local culture as you indulge in fine dining and inspired excursions.

ESCORTED CRUISES: EXPERTLED JOURNEYS (2026-2027)

Galapagos Expedition with Monika and Yves on Silversea (Oct. 31-Nov. 7, 2026) Explore rare wildlife and pristine landscapes aboard an intimate ex-

pedition ship, guided by Monika and Yves’s expert knowledge. Vietnam and Cambodia Mekong Cruise with Daniela (Nov. 28Dec. 13, 2026) Experience culture and history along the Mekong River, visiting vibrant markets, ancient temples, and peaceful villages. Amazon Exploration with Judy on Explora Journeys (Feb. 17-29, 2027) Delve into the Amazon rainforest’s stunning biodiversity with exciting excursions and expert insight on a luxurious vessel.

9TH ANNUAL NORTHERN ARIZONA TRAVEL EXPO

Join us on from 4:30 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2025, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Flagstaff. Connect with travel experts and your local community of fellow travelers, discover breathtaking destinations and get insider tips to plan your dream trip. Attendance is free but registration is encouraged at: https://avenuesoftheworld.com/northernarizonatravelexpo.html.

WHY TRAVEL WITH AVENUES OF THE WORLD TRAVEL?

With more than 30 years of combined experience, our passionate team creates fully personalized travel experiences designed around your interests and desires. From private transportation and luxury accommodations to unique activities and dining arrangements, we take care of every detail with expertise and care. We provide VIP perks, seamless planning and 24/7 support to ensure your journey is smooth, memorable and truly life-changing. Flagstaff friends, the world awaits! Join us at the 9th annual Northern Arizona Travel Expo, embark on one of our impactful fundraiser cruises or explore with expert-led escorted trips. Let us help you create unforgettable travel memories. FBN Daniela Harrison is a Travel Advisor and Director of Marketing at Avenues of the World Travel in Flagstaff, AZ. For questions, please reach out via 928-556-0853 or Daniela@ avenuesoftheworld.com.

// Join us on from 4:30 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2025, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Flagstaff. Connect with travel experts and your local community of fellow travelers, discover breathtaking destinations and get insider tips to plan your dream trip. //

Flagstaff Business News // JULY 2025

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Helping Individuals Live More Fulfilling Lives Through Therapy

By Devon Forrest

he number of people who seek out therapy services has increased in recent years. At The Guidance Center, with in-person and telehealth appointment options, we embrace this trend and continue to meet the growing needs of our community members. Speaking with a counselor provides a safe space to express feelings in a confidential and non-judgmental

environment. Patients often find that enhanced self-understanding gained in counseling leads to better, more rewarding relationships and fewer harmful behaviors. Additionally, counseling can assist with establishing practical life tools for managing depression, expressing anger, understanding anxiety, and moving through grief. Breaking down problems into manageable steps improves a recipient’s ability to overcome their hurdles, leading to greater

// While some people seek out counseling for specific issues such as substance use, self-harm or PTSD, others are motivated to develop new coping skills, improve communication through enhanced assertiveness or conflict resolution, or develop new perspectives for problem solving. //

fulfillment in all areas of life. While some people seek out counseling for specific issues such as substance use, self-harm or PTSD, others are motivated to develop new coping skills, improve communication through enhanced assertiveness or conflict resolution, or develop new perspectives for problem solving. At The Guidance Center, we offer individual, group and family therapy. We’re contracted with all insurance plans, and a sliding fee schedule is available for uninsured community members. We strongly believe that counseling improves lives, and we encounter evidence of this every day. Seeing participants in our services build coping skills, understand themselves more deeply, and live with increased purpose and connection are some of our greatest joys at The Guidance Center. Our telehealth services are especially important for our vast region and are offered for those who prefer participating in the comfort of their own spaces or cannot make the trip in to see us in

Full-service provider of landscape design, installation, and maintenance

person. Convenience and comfort improve outcomes for so many. Since 1969, The Guidance Center has been our community’s premier mental health center. Today, we offer a full continuum of behavior health services for people of all ages. I’m proud of what we do every day, because our team of compassionate care providers show up each day with the intention of helping others live more fulfilling lives. We are here when you need us. FBN

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Land Purchase Eyed for Economic Development p. 3

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

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,

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

page 33

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.

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

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

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

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

(928) 863-6086

thevitalitydoctor.com 7255 Yancey Lane Flagstaff, Arizona 86004

928-525-0300

Dr. Christina Kovalik Naturopathic Doctor

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

Call or book your appointment online today!

www.ALGFlag.com

page 30

INSIDE THE FEBRUARY

Flagstaff Shines on Signs p. 4

Devon Forrest is the CEO of The Guidance Center, located at 2187 N. Vickey St., in Flagstaff. For more information, call 928-5271899 or visit tgcaz.org.

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JULY 2025 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

Seven Simple Steps to Improve Mental Clarity, Reduce Brain Fog

By Christina Kovalik

o you have trouble thinking clearly, focusing or recalling issues? Common causes of “brain fog” are overwhelming stress, lack of sleep, not enough exercise, hormone imbalances, allergies or nutrient deficiencies. It is important to get your thyroid and female or male hormones tested. Lack of focus could be caused by thyroid, adrenal, neurotransmitter or testosterone deficiency. If you are experiencing forgetfulness once in a while and are able to recall thoughts and memories relatively quickly, it can be normal with aging. Seek out medical attention if you are starting to forget how to do day-to-day activities, simple driving directions to a place you should remember how to get to, or words, or experience mood changes, as those may be signs of early dementia. Below are some helpful tips to help clear the fog.

BRAIN DUMP

When you are overwhelmed, it can be helpful to have a brain dump session, to write out all worries and to-dos. Then, prioritize them by choosing the top three to focus on completing in a day, week and month. Setting outcomes can help you stay on task and eliminate overwhelm.

TAKE TIME TO BE IN NATURE

If you find yourself too consumed by work and lack focus, take a five- to 20-minute walk outside, focusing on the warmth of the sun, the birds chirping and the way the earth feels. Walking barefoot in the grass helps to ground you and lifts the fog.

FOCUS ON WHAT YOU ARE EATING; MAKE SURE YOU ARE GETTING QUALITY SLEEP If you are feeling foggy after a meal, make a connection to what you ate and how you feel. Cleaning up your diet by eating an organic whole foods diet, free of processed foods, hormones and additives, can be helpful. Drink less alcohol and coffee and drink more water and tea. Also, make sure you are getting enough quality sleep. If you are tossing and turning all night, of course you will not feel very sharp. Create a healthy sleep routine by turning off your computer screen time 1-2 hours before bed. Keeping lights dim or off can help your body release melatonin that helps you feel sleepy. Drink relaxing herbal tea, listen to meditation music or take a hot bath to help you unwind after the day.

FOCUS ON MOVEMENT

Exercise regularly 3-5 times per week, more often than not. High intensity interval training for 10-20 minutes 2-3 times per week has been

shown to benefit cardiovascular and hormone health. Try a breathing exercise with movement like Qigong or Yoga. Try this breathing exercise for mental clarity and focus: inhale for a count of eight and exhale for a count of 16 while tapping the forehead, top of head and temples with all fingers lightly. Do this cycle for 2-5 minutes and see how relaxed and focused you feel afterward.

TRY ROSEMARY OR PEPPERMINT ESSENTIAL OILS Inhale the essential oil or rub a sprig of fresh rosemary or peppermint and inhale the aromas to increase focus and clarity.

GOT STRESS?

Regular meditation, yoga, acupuncture, message and journaling have been shown to reduce stress. Acupuncture releases natural endorphins to enhance your overall well-being and regulate hormones allowing for a calmer nervous system. Listening to calming binaural theta waves music can help to reset the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems,

leaving you feeling more calm and better able to deal with stress. It has been shown to reduce anxiety, stress and help you have more restful sleep.

GET YOUR LAB WORK DONE

Mind fog may be a symptom of hormone imbalance of the thyroid, female or male hormones, neurotransmitter problems, adrenal issues, nutrient deficiencies (Vitamin B or D), allergies or food sensitivities. Looking at lab values to reach optimal levels can help improve and restore overall health. Identifying what the cause is and treating it naturally can help improve focus and productivity. 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 928-8636086.

Flagstaff Business News // JULY 2025

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

How Radio Helps Businesses Grow in Northern Arizona

By Mike Jensen

adio has been a trusted form of communication and entertainment for more than a century. While the world around it has evolved with digital technologies, radio has remained a powerful and relevant medium – especially in Northern Arizona’s tight-knit, community-focused areas like Flagstaff and Sedona. For businesses looking to grow locally, radio provides a unique blend of reach, trust and affordability that no other medium can quite match.

LOCAL REACH WITH LOYAL LISTENERS

Radio stations in Northern Arizona are deeply rooted in the communities they serve. Whether it’s a local morning show host discussing area events or a DJ giving shout-outs to nearby businesses, local radio connects people in a

way that national media cannot. That local connection translates into loyal listenership. According to Nielsen data, more than 90% of Americans still listen to AM/FM radio weekly, and in smallto mid-sized markets like ours, those numbers are even higher. For business owners, this means radio advertising puts your message directly into the ears of your neighbors – people who shop locally, dine locally and hire locally. A well-placed radio ad can remind someone to visit a new restaurant in downtown Flagstaff, check out a weekend event in the Village of Oak Creek or call a home services company in Doney Park.

THE POWER OF FREQUENCY

One of radio’s biggest strengths is frequency. Listeners often tune in daily, sometimes multiple times a day, during their commute, at work or while running errands. This repetition helps your

advertising message stick. The average listener might hear your commercial 10 or more times in a week, which builds top-of-mind awareness. When the time comes to choose a roofer, a dentist or a new place for lunch, they’ll remember the name they’ve heard again and again on their favorite station.

RADIO BUILDS TRUST

In a world full of pop-up ads, paid influencers and fleeting social media content, radio has something valuable: credibility. Local stations have longstanding relationships with their audiences. When a local host endorses a business or shares a sponsor’s message, it carries weight. People feel like they know their favorite DJs – and they trust them. That trust transfers to the businesses that advertise on the station. This is especially important in smaller communities like Sedona, Williams and Munds Park, where word of mouth

// The average listener might hear your commercial 10 or more times in a week, which builds top-of-mind awareness. When the time comes to choose a roofer, a dentist or a new place for lunch, they’ll remember the name they’ve heard again and again on their favorite station. //

and reputation still matter. Radio gives businesses a way to become part of the local fabric and build a positive brand image over time.

often sponsor local events, charities and public service campaigns, making them a cornerstone of the regional economy.

One of the best parts about radio advertising is that it’s scalable. Whether you’re a new boutique in Jerome with a small marketing budget or an established business in Flagstaff looking to launch a new product, there’s a radio campaign that can work for you. Spots can be tailored for short-term promotions, long-term branding, event announcements or even recruitment. Local stations also offer added value through promotions, contests, live remotes and sponsorships that give businesses extra exposure without extra cost. Many also provide in-house copywriting and production, helping even the smallest advertiser create a professional, engaging message.

than background noise – it’s a trusted companion and community connector. For local businesses looking to grow, radio offers the perfect mix of reach, frequency, credibility and value. It helps businesses not only get noticed, but get remembered. And in a world full of options, being remembered is what leads to growth. FBN

FINAL THOUGHTS VERSATILITY FOR EVERY BUDGET In Northern Arizona, radio is more

SUPPORTING THE LOCAL ECONOMY

Advertising on local radio doesn’t just help your business – it strengthens the entire community. Dollars spent on local radio stay local, supporting jobs, talent and community initiatives. Stations

Mike Jensen is the regional director of sales and marketing at Yavapai Broadcasting in Central and Northern Arizona, overseeing stations 95.9 KKLD, 105.7 KVRD, 100.1 KVNA, 96.3 KYBC, and ESPN Radio 104.7 in Flagstaff. With more than 25 years of experience in media broadcasting and advertising across the country, Mike is passionate about helping businesses grow through impactful radio advertising and digital marketing. He focuses on delivering results, boosting brand visibility and building strong, lasting partnerships for success.

Your New Favorite Station for the Biggest Hits! Turn it up and experience the best music from the 80s, 90s, and today. Broadcasting now in Flagstaff! Contact Stephanie Preston: stephanie@myradioplace.com 928-699-5927 | myradioplace.com

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VerdeValley Serving the Greater Verde Valley

JULY 2025 // Flagstaff Business News

BUSINESS NEWS

When ‘The Kayenta Curse’ Becomes a Blessing

VerdeValley

From car breakdowns to unsuspected enlightenment, Eclectic Image Gallery owner Duane Morgan finds his higher purpose By Bonnie Stevens, VVBN

stories of generations past.” As captivating as he found the Navajo lands, “it was as if the place or photographer and artist was alive with energy.” He and Elaine Duane Morgan, what seemed had sudden like a streak of bad luck – flat Serving thecar trouble there for years, nearly every time they were in Kayenta, tires, engine failures and car trouble Greater Valley usually near the Anasazi Inn. In the in the middle of nowhere – became Verde more profound. His journey through first incident, as Duane was changing their flat tire, he told Elaine, “I feel like these so-called “accidents” led him I’ve been here before.” to discover a connection to the land, As odd as it seemed, they didn’t give his past and a higher purpose. As it much thought until “a messenger” relayed in his new book, “The Kayenta Curse,” he says, “life proves that visited Duane in their Sedona gallery that displays their stunning photogsometimes, the universe forces us to raphy. He writes: “You’ve had trouble stop, pay attention and listen.” in the Kayenta area, haven’t you?” she Morgan, who owns and operates asked. “The spirits in Kayenta want to Eclectic Image Gallery in Sedona with spend time with you. They mean you his wife, Elaine, shares extraordinary no harm; they’re just trying to connect events that happened to them while photographing the breathtaking natural with you, as your knowledge is so vast.” And then, she left. Duane says she beauty of the Southwest and elsewhere. was the first of many messengers who The story begins in the far reaches of visited the gallery. He was told he was a Northern Arizona. “Nothing could have prepared me for the magnitude of powerful healer. Morgan had been many things in his the landscape.” life: a steel mill worker who shoveled He writes: hot coke onto a conveyor belt, an “As I traveled towards Kayenta, aircraft mechanic, a Navy Petty Officer the anticipation of what I would find on a nuclear guided missile cruiser, a heightened my senses. There was an nuclear power plant operator and an undeniable energy in the air as if the artist, but never a healer. He also envery essence of this place whispered

joyed fixing up and selling motorcycles. One day, “a guy came by to see a bike I had for sale and proposed a trade.” The offer was a 35mm camera, lenses, filters and a tripod for the bike. Elaine told him she had always wanted to take photography classes. “That’s how we got into photography, eventually into owning and operating a gallery.” The two were drawn to Sedona’s charmingly rustic Tlaquepaque Village. “This new chapter in Sedona was not just about expanding our business; it was about embracing the opportunities and messages that had guided us along the way. Our journey had taught us to trust in the unseen forces that shape our lives.” As captured in the book, Morgan describes many unusual events that now make more sense to him since he began accepting and exploring his keen intuition and spiritual awakening. When Elaine gave him a birthday gift of a session with a psychic, neither had shared their Kayenta experiences or anything else about themselves. “You have healing hands and a powerful spirit,” said the psychic. “You’ve lived in the Kayenta area in a previous life. You were a high-level Native American wise man or healer. People came from miles around to be healed by your hands.” Today, the healing continues. Even

before having this insight, visitors have come to the gallery. Some would stand close to him because it made them feel better, he said. “The Kayenta area, once a source of frustration, had become a bridge to a past life, a reminder of the healer I once was and perhaps still am,” he writes. In the psychic realm, Morgan has scored high in claircognizance, clairsentience, clairaudience and empathy, but low in clairvoyance and mediumship. He receives messages and sees orbs and flashes of light, “angels,” he says. He also recognizes when someone is in pain, which leads to a conversation and often to a meditative healing session he performs alone in the early morning hours to send healing energy. Morgan says he continues to learn about the spiritual realm and has a yearning to visit Mayan temples, Machu Picchu and Angkor Wat. “I feel like I need to touch the stone and relay the story of the people who built it,” he said. He believes his purpose is to heal. “I believe healing shouldn’t cost anything. If you can heal, you should. But I’ll have to wait until I’m retired and have income coming in because my gallery would be overwhelmed.” In the meantime, Morgan says he has come so far from 20 years of journaling about things he didn’t understand. “I finally paid attention and now

BUSINESS NEWS

Artist and gallery owner Duane Morgan says his spiritual awakening has played out across decades. In “The Kayenta Curse,” he shares his journey, as documented in his journals and witnessed by his wife, Elaine. Courtesy photo

I understand. The universe isn’t what you think it is. It’s not an empty void of nothingness, it is full of energy and we are all connected as one.” VVBN Eclectic Image Photography is located in Tlaquepaque in Sedona. “The Kayenta Curse” is available on Amazon.

Salt Mine Wine Blends Family, Sustainability, Italian Inspiration Two brothers and their wives have turned a historic farm into a flourishing vineyard By V. Ronnie Tierney, VVBN

ucked within the six acres of trellises is a small but vibrant winery in Camp Verde, owned and operated by two brothers and their wives who have transformed a historic farm site into the vineyard of Salt Mine Wine. Steps away from pecan groves, pastures and small farms, Chip and Kevin Norton, along with their wives, Kathy and Leann, have created a Shangri-la

of sorts using sustainable winegrowing methods. The couples, who separately visited Italy, were inspired by the smaller vineyards and the comfortable and personal atmosphere. “That really appealed to us, and we thought it would be nice to have something like that in Camp Verde where visitors can pull off the freeway, relax, meet other people and enjoy the environment,” said Chip. Soon, Kevin was enrolled in classes at Yavapai College Southwest Wine

Center in Clarkdale and the brothers planted a pilot project of wine grapes near the Verde River in Camp Verde. Through the next few years, they learned a lot about viticulture and enology. In 2012, they bought farm property in Camp Verde and installed infrastructure and planted wine grapes. “In 2015, we produced our first limited production vintages of Arizona wine,” said Chip. “We bought Spanish and Italian grape varietals from vineyards in Willcox.” The on-farm tasting room opened in Surrounded by grape vines, Salt Mine Wine owners and brothers Kevin and Chip Continued on page 30

Norton enjoy growing grapes and making wine. “We are living the dream,” said Kevin. Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

Flagstaff Business News // JULY 2025

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

On the Road with Compassion Fourth-generation Cottonwood rancher brings veterinary care to Verde Valley cats and dogs

By V. Ronnie Tierney, VVBN

s a fourth generation Cottonwood resident, Verde Valley Roaming Veterinary Services owner Dr. Monica Mongini, along with her husband and veterinary technician Michael Mongini, are making it easier for pet owners to receive medical attention for their beloved companions. Serving all of Verde Valley, the new state-of-the art mobile veterinary practice offers a wide range of preventative, medical, pharmaceutical and compassionate end-of-life services. “Our mission is to bring the most caring, convenient and quality veterinary care to the residents of Verde Valley and surrounding areas,” said Monica. Growing up and continuing to live on her family’s UVX Ranch in Cottonwood, Monica became close to animals at a young age. “Originally, UVX Ranch was a dairy that my grandfather ran until the 1950s. When I was 3 years old, he gave me a cow and I kept her until I was a junior in veterinary school. She was 28 years old when she died.” Dr. Mongini continues to manage Hereford and angus cattle on their 100-acre ranch. The Barn on UVX Ranch also serves

Top: Dr. Monica Mongini says her mission is to bring the most caring, convenient and quality veterinary care to the residents of Verde Valley and surrounding areas. Inset: Verde Valley Roaming Veterinary Services, operated by Monica and Michael Mongini, offers mobile wellness exams, diagnostic testing, bloodwork, vaccinations, microchipping and in-home euthanasia. Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

as a rustic Western wedding venue. “My dad and I have built the herd over the last 40 years or so and have basically bred and sold cows. This past

Dr. Mongini and her husband, veterinary technician Michael Mongini, treat TJ inside the mobile unit.

year, Michael and I took over as ranch managers,” she said. Monica attended Northern Arizona University (NAU) and earned her bachelor’s degree in zoology with a minor in chemistry. She then was accepted the Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. She founded Verde Valley Roaming Veterinary Services in 2012. It was her father who proposed a mobile pet veterinarian service. “Our daughter was born three months premature and during my stay in the hospital with her, my dad approached me. He told me that I should be a mobile veterinarian and that he had found a mobile pet truck in Florida. I explained to him that that’s not a thing around here and I don’t want to do equines. He said, ‘Well, then just do dogs and cats.’ I agreed and he flew out and picked up the truck for me.” At the time, Dr. Mongini was working at two practices. “It really was out of necessity, as I was seeing a doctor every

other day for my daughter’s care. It was stressful and I really needed to plan my schedule and not work for somebody else. My dad was an angel,” she said, adding that she loves her job and the connection she is able to have with her clients as a mobile veterinarian. Verde Valley Roaming Veterinary Services, operated by Monica and Michael Mongini, offers mobile wellness exams, diagnostic testing, bloodwork, vaccinations, microchipping and inhome euthanasia. “My dog, Misha, had a tumor on her neck and Dr. Mongini and Michael did their best to keep her comfortable as long as possible,” said Jackie Ryan of Camp Verde. “When it came time to say goodbye, they came to the house on short notice. It was a very difficult day, but they made it easier by being at the house.”

Serving as the only mobile pet veterinarian in the Verde Valley, the mobile unit provides service to Sedona, Camp Verde, Rim Rock, Cottonwood, Village of Oak Creek and surrounding areas. “One of our cats has special dietary needs and our dog has chronic health issues, but no matter the challenge, Dr. Mongini and her team have always been incredibly responsive and compassionate,” said Client Katherine Stapleton. “They have provided outstanding care for our cats and dogs for over 12 years. I truly believe they care about our animals as much as we do.” VVBN To contact Verde Valley Roaming Veterinary Services, call 928-646-3766 or visit the website at verdevalleyroamingvet. com.

JULY 2025 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

// VERDE VALLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE // BY V. RONNIE TIERNEY, VVBN

Driven to Serve: Jon Huey Shifts Gears from Tribal Leadership to Auto Repair

ormer Yavapai-Apache Chairman Jon Huey brings integrity, leadership and warmth to Huey Automotive in Rimrock After decades of service in public safety and tribal leadership, Jon Huey could have coasted into retirement. Instead, the former Yavapai-Apache police chief and Yavapai-Apache Nation chairman accelerated into a new chapter – this time, under the hood. Three years ago, he opened Huey Automotive in Rimrock, a full-service repair garage that has quickly earned a reputation for quality work and neighborly service. With six bays, three technicians and two office staff members, Huey is devoted to the nuts and bolts of small-business ownership, helping Verde Valley residents stay safely on the road. “I get to interact with people I would not meet otherwise,” he said. “All credit goes to my three awesome technicians and my daughter, Amiyah, who works at the shop periodically. I don’t know how to explain it, but vehicles are so

complex these days.” Born Apache, Huey was adopted as a baby. His mother, Donna Huey, shared how she and her late husband, Harold, cared for Jon on and off until he was a year old – then made the adoption official. “Jon had this strong sense of learning,” she added. “Growing up, he did very well in school and was very focused on every task before him. He had a great relationship with his father and sisters. He got along with everyone.” While Jon didn’t grow up on the reservation, his connection to his Native identity remained strong. “We kept Jon enrolled in the tribe and he knows who his biological parents and siblings are,” Donna said. Huey is grateful for the family who raised him. “I got pretty lucky,” he said. “My family took really good care of me.” Family remains central to Huey’s life. Married to Desiree, who he met through law enforcement, he is a father Continued on page 30

Three years ago, former Yavapai-Apache Chairman Jon Huey opened Huey Automotive in Rimrock, after a career in law enforcement – from animal control to chief of police. Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

Flagstaff Business News // JULY 2025

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WINE continued from page 27

2018, and today the team is successfully growing nine Italian wine grape varietals. Family and friends help prune, harvest, crush and bottle the grapes. “Salt Mine Wine is a jewel in the crown for Camp Verde,” said Verde Valley Wine Consortium President Paula Woosley. “Unassuming brothers Chip and Kevin produce some of the Verde Valley’s finest wines. Lean ing towards Italian varieties, their wines are all quality grapes grown here in the Verde Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA). Give the rosé a try. You won’t be disappointed.” “Our number one concern is the environment,” said Kevin. “When we bought the land, the pasture was flood irrigated, so our goal was to reduce water consumption by half, which we have done. Also, we don’t use herbicides or pesticides. Our vineyard has actually turned into a sort of refuge for butterflies and wildlife.” Kevin says the couples are “living the dream,” making wine and working in the vineyard. “It’s so beautiful here and we have a lot of friends that come and hang out here and help with pruning, harvest, bottling and events.” “I’ve been coming since the first day they opened their tasting room,” said Mary Maloney of Camp Verde. “They are very lovely people, very hospitable and kind. I come for the wine, of course, but also the social aspect. I’m 80 years old and I need to stay socialized. I

Chip and Kevin Norton welcome visitors from around the world to their tasting room. Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney

sit out here on their deck with people I never met before and have a wonderful time. Their wine is excellent; I love their reds.” Chip and Kevin were born in Phoenix and, along with their brother, David, worked in the construction industry with their father for 35 years. “Our company was DL Norton General Contracting, and we worked throughout Arizona,” said Chip. “We did a lot of historical restoration and new construction work at the Grand Canyon.”

The brothers’ father and grandfather worked in the construction business. After World War II, they specialized in building schools in rural communities throughout the state, including Williams, Peach Springs, Tuba City, Chinle and Grand Canyon. Most are now on the National Register of Historic Places, said Chip. “Our family on my father’s side came to Payson in the late 1800s and our great-grandfather homesteaded in Star Valley.” “It’s a hoot,” said Leann, who is married to Kevin. “We’ve made a lot of

In the vineyard, Kevin and Leann Norton raise a glass with Chip and Kathy Norton.

good friends here and working outside is so wonderful and something I’ve never done before. I was a teacher, so I didn’t get to spend as many hours outside and now I do. It’s just wonderful.” “This was their (Chip and Kevin’s) idea but it turned out to be a lot of fun,” said Kathy, who is married to Chip. “There are people who visit from all over the world and it’s just a treat, plus we have friends who come. Last week, we had people visit from the Azores Islands, an autonomous region of Portugal. We’ve had visitors from

Brazil, Australia, Iceland, it’s just fun and the local folks are great, too. It’s a connection with communities that we wouldn’t have had otherwise.” VVBN Salt Mine Wine is located at 536 W. Salt Mine Road in Camp Verde. Visiting hours are noon to 5 p.m., Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. For more information, visit www. saltminewine.com or call 928-910-2075.

HUEY continued from page 30

with the shop now and doing great. So glad to be here and I wouldn’t want it any other way.” Huey Automotive is located at 3716 E. Beaver Creek Road in Rimrock. For service, call 928-567-2752.

MOMENT OF NOSTALGIA

Jon Huey remains dedicated to service. His Rimrock automotive shop has six bays and three technicians.

of five and a grandfather of one. His youngest child, Stormy, age 7, is also adopted. Desiree works for the YavapaiApache Tribe in the Attorney General’s Office and is of Yavapai-Apache and Hopi descent. The couple frequently travels to Second Mesa to visit her family. Huey’s appointment as chairman of the Yavapai-Apache Nation stands as a defining moment in his life. “I was very blessed to be selected by my peers,” he said. “It is the highest position and holds a huge responsibility. Even

though I did not grow up on the reservation, there was trust in me. It was the high point in my life and sometimes I think I would consider running again. I miss the people, the projects and all the things you can do for the community.” That commitment to service continues today. “Mr. Jon Huey has long been a dedicated servant to the YavapaiApache Nation – as a tribal leader, law enforcement officer and mentor,” said Yavapai-Apache Chairwoman Tanya Lewis. “His transition into a successful small business owner in the Verde Valley is a reflection of his resilience, lead-

ership and unwavering commitment to our community. Jon continues to uplift others through his work, contributing not only to the local economy but to the cultural and spiritual strength of our Nation.” When he’s not running the shop, Huey stays active as a softball coach. “I coach Little League and high school softball,” he said. “Stormy just had a competition and came in second place. It was the Little League Tournament of Champions in Chino Valley.” Camp Verde resident Kevin Clawson praised Huey’s character and community presence. “I’ve known Jon for a pretty long time,” Clawson said. “The thing that stands out to me about Jon is that he always has a smile on his face. He’s always interested in what you have to say and never talks negatively about anyone. He is an amazing person and truly an asset to this community.”

Huey, now 46, said his greatest achievement is his family. “I’ve had a lot of good careers, but I have great children. I love being with them.” After graduating from Camp Verde High School, Huey worked briefly with his father in Dewey, then attended Scottsdale Community College before entering law enforcement. Today, Huey Automotive offers a range of services, including oil changes, wheel alignments, transmission work, diagnostics and heating and air conditioning repair. “Working with Jon has been a great experience,” said shop manager Jason Harding. “He is such a people person and makes us feel appreciated. He treats us equally. Jon cares about family and if we need time off, there are no questions asked. We have lunch together every Friday. He’s great with our customers and makes them feel comfortable. We are in our third year

Anytime I hear George Strait and country music from the 1980s. It just brings back so many memories, especially when my dad used to play in a country band.

SUPERSTITIONS

There’s Native folklore about owls, eagles, coyotes and creatures that cross your path at night. My wife gets a little superstitious sometimes and I’m a little more laid back.

FAVORITE COURSE

Criminal investigation. I got to learn about cybercrimes, white-collar crimes and homicide investigation. I found that really interesting, especially stuff about the Internet and the web.

VACATION DESTINATION

Italy. I’ve never been there, but it looks beautiful.

GUILTY PLEASURE

Sleeping in too late. I’m a pretty early riser, but now that I’m getting older, it is nice to sleep in sometimes. It’s nice but I do feel guilty. VVBN

JULY 2025 // Flagstaff Business News

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Reality in Realty: Numbers Don’t Lie

By Chris Hallows

imperfect as it doesn’t account for all negotiation factors like repairs and other monetary concessions, but it paints a decent picture. Red bars showing then the sold to list price based on any price reductions and blue bar showing the sold to original list price. As before, I’ve included last year’s graph with the June 2008 through May 2009 graph. What I believe the numbers show is that our market is maturing to the music much more rapidly than in the historic chart. With original list price trends mirroring very close in current market, it shows me that our real estate professionals and their clients are truly doing their best to follow the pulse and to get a buyer and seller on the dance floor. This doesn’t mean sellers have to give away the farm or that buyers need to come in guns blazing. This simply means that we’re moving tightly to amicable match ups. The historic chart simply adds to the clarity on why the absorption rate could get so high. If we start worlds apart, it’s going to take even more time for reality to set in and egos to simmer.

et’s be honest – if you had to form an opinion RIGHT NOW on the housing market, you’d probably pull from the anecdotal evidence of your own or close contacts’ recent experience and from any brief cover stories from mainstream national media. Those are certainly data points to be considered but can be far from painting a full picture. Broad stroke statements and alarmist conclusions make much better headlines and clickbait when the reality is there is a lot of nuance in our current market. We have sellers that are lost and don’t understand why their house isn’t selling and we have others who have received multiple offers just last week. How can this exist in the same market and timeframe? Nuance. My attempt at this month’s article is to highlight some of the nuances in the current market primarily through heavily relying on the numbers. We may all have an opinion, but the numbers don’t lie.

WHAT DOES MEDIAN PRICE ACTUALLY MEAN?

The median price point of the Flagstaff MLS in May 2024 was $620,000 and the median price point then this last May 2025 was $744,740. At a quick glance, one may interpret that data to believe that the average house is $100K more expensive this year vs. last year. However, if we graphically represent the sold data, you can see that the median is very much influenced by far lower priced sales occurring in 2024. The rate lock effect (folks with sub4% rates staying in homes longer), available inventory and continued prevalence of cash buyers at higher price points are all factors that could contribute to a higher median price point this year vs. last year. However, it doesn’t mean that appreciation is still a 2020-2022 rocket ship. This is especially important for potential sellers to understand.

Available supply and market demand can shift significantly depending on exact market timing and price tiers. This may be an interesting phenomenon to watch in the coming years: where median price point continues to increase while general market prices remain flat or have moderate appreciation. Why would something like this happen? The higher end of the market ironically is a heavier cash purchase than financing so with less rate sensitivity, we’re seeing more seven-figure homes in Flagstaff selling than ever before, dragging that median up while not being a real representation of the general market.

ABSORPTION RATE

One of the best indicators of the supply and demand trend is the Absorption Rate, measured in

months. According to the National Association of Realtors, this indicates how long it would take to sell all current listings in a specific market at the current sales pace. It’s calculated by dividing the number of active listings by the number of homes sold in a given period (usually 12 months). Most experts consider five to six months of inventory a balanced market, with equal buyer and seller footing. Anything less than five months is considered more seller biased and the lower the months of inventory, the more biased to sellers – and vice versa, having more than five or six months of inventory is more biased toward buyers. Two charts shown here compare this last year’s absorption rate to June 2008 through May 2009. While the seasonality of the market appears to have a similar curve, the months of

inventory are drastically different. The 15 months of inventory in May 2009 is a completely different market than the approximate 4.2 months of inventory in the current market. It would be important to note that this is the highest level of inventory we’ve seen since late 2019. The poison pill of extremely low rates in 2020-2022 caused the buying frenzy that had some months as low as only one month of inventory. “Those are the conditions that align with bidding over ask, 5-10% increase in cash transactions and a rapidly accelerating home appreciation. With both extremes of inventory experienced in the last two decades, it’s hard to believe we could settle into “normal,” but it appears that’s exactly what the market is doing, at least for now. We have as balanced a market as we’ve been for more than five years and that is a very good thing that Absorption Rate helps verify!

SOLD TO LIST RATIO

Free market supply and demand is a dance and right now we’re in the elementary-school-style standoff but trying to figure it out. I hope you can take a moment and get a good chuckle out of that analogy. We were all there, right – the awkward pre-teen moments where the boys didn’t quite have enough courage to ask and the girls stuck together in intimidating packs. Well, the age-old adage is that fair market value is what a buyer is willing to pay and a seller is willing to accept. The Sold to List Ratio is the best attempt we have to monitor how the dance is going. It’s somewhat

WHAT DO ALL THE NUMBERS ADD UP TO?

The one chart I don’t have is what the next 12 months on all these numbers will be. I’ll let you know once it magically appears to me some day – but until then, I believe the big picture and comparison to the extremes, give context. Barring any complete black swan event, we may just be headed toward a calmer balanced market that lets wages catch up to needed affordability levels and helps us get to a “housing for all” opportunistic market – one can hope! FBN

For additional information or to schedule an appointment visit ChrisHallows. Benchmark.us or call 928-707-8572. The Flagstaff location is 824 W Rte 66 Suite A-3. Chris Hallows is the Branch Manager & Sr. Mortgage Advisor of Benchmark Mortgage Flagstaff. NMLS 306345 Ark-La-Tex Financial Services, LLC NMLS 2143 |Equal Housing Lender

JULY 2025 // Flagstaff Business News

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Knowing the Signs of Alcohol Abuse

By Roy DuPrez

lcohol addiction is the second most common addiction in the United States, with tobacco being the only more commonly used addictive substance. Alcohol is prevalent in many parts of popular culture and social life, so it is not surprising that many people struggle with alcohol abuse. The abuse of alcohol is a serious condition, as the person struggling becomes dependent on it to get through everyday life, and as the issue becomes more serious, the side effects get worse. Serious side effects of alcohol abuse are slurred speech, memory loss, blackouts, breathing issues, coma and even death. According to the CDC, “about 178,000 people die from excessive drinking each year.” Individuals must understand the signs of alcohol abuse so they can successfully spot it in themselves and others before it is too late. The first step to treating alcohol abuse is to spot it. Doing so could save a life.

PHYSICAL SIGNS

Alcohol is hard on the human body, and physical signs show up quickly if you or someone you know is abusing alcohol. A person dealing with alcohol abuse is more likely to experience frequent hangovers or withdrawal symptoms, such as tremors, sweating or nausea. Slurred speech and smelling of alcohol, especially at inappropriate times, is also a telltale sign of alcohol abuse. Finally, as a dependency on alco-

hol worsens, a person may begin to lose weight and stop doing basic hygiene.

CHANGE IN BEHAVIOR

Alcohol abuse brings out the worst in a person, and the behavior they exhibit while drunk is night and day from when they are sober. A person who abuses alcohol will often put themselves in compromising situations, such as drinking before driving or neglecting responsibilities they have at home, work or school. They may drink for long periods or hide their drinking habits from their friends and loved ones. Finally, these behavioral issues often lead to financial problems as they lose their job or start spending more and more on alcohol. Over time, you will see noticeable changes in their personality. They may become angry when not drinking or anxious and depressed when they do drink. The mounting issues in their life caused by alcohol might cause them to be stressed and drink more as a coping mechanism. Alcohol abuse will eventually begin to strain social relationships. They may start to withdraw from friends and family. Conflicts because of alcohol use will become more frequent and there may be a loss of interest in activities that used to bring joy. If you or a loved one starts to see a noticeable shift in personality along with an increase in alcohol consumption, it can be a sign of alcohol abuse. Alcohol abuse is an issue that affects over 28 million Americans, according to the National Institutes of Health. Catching the signs of al-

cohol abuse in yourself or your loved one early can save lives. FBN Roy DuPrez, M.Ed., is the CEO and founder of Back2Basics Outdoor Adventure Recovery in Flagstaff. DuPrez received his B.S. and M.Ed. from Northern Arizona University. Back2Basics helps young men, ages 18 to 35, recover from addiction to drugs and alcohol.

Back2Basics is adventure recovery, up to six months, for adult males ages 18-30 with substance abuse issues looking for a positive and meaningful life. Our clients are exposed to a weekly combination of outdoor activities and residential programming. For more information, visit https://back2basics-soberliving.com, call 928-814-2220, or email rduprez@ b2badventures.com.

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LITTLE AMERICA continued from page 1

been in this community for more than 55 years. We understand what this means, and we don’t take it lightly.” Little America is working on details for the fence line, but O’Brien says the plan is to close off all public access and leave only entry for fire crews, adding that this is a necessary step to protect private property, residents, guests and the surrounding forest. “Some residents are reluctant and some are sad, but they really do understand the reasons why. They know those problems exist and they appreciate we are being proactive to maintain the property.” Meanwhile, experts say the wildfire season has lengthened in many areas, including Arizona, for many reasons including warmer spring temperatures and decreases in precipitation and snowpack. “The average length of fire season (time from first fire start to last fire suppressed, in the calendar year) has increased across the Western U.S. by 2.8 months, and by 3.6 months in southwestern forests,” states a 2020 study by Northern Arizona University’s Ecological Restoration Institute. As wildfire season continues, O’Brien hopes the community will stay vigilant, practice fire safety and respect property boundaries. “It’s all about keeping Flagstaff beautiful and safe,” he said. “We love this town and that’s why we’re making these tough decisions.” O’Brien encourages anyone looking for outdoor recreation to explore nearby public lands and designated trail systems, which remain open and accessible throughout the region. FBN

Hiking trails winding through Little America’s more than 500-acre property are expected to be closed to the public soon. Hotel leadership says the action is aimed at reducing the threat of wildfire to residents, guests and private property. Courtesy photo

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JULY 2025 // Flagstaff Business News

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OPENSHAW continued from page 11

Gymnastics Academy, The Movement Baton Twirlers, Canyon Dance Academy and more. “I have worked side by side with Sean for the past 34 years and have watched his craft evolve,” said photographer Jake Bacon. “He has said that still images only capture part of the story, so he decided to include the written word and video documentation. He doesn’t settle for the ‘simple.’ He goes out of his way.” Openshaw enjoys capturing and cataloging important moments in life through video documentaries and stories, especially for high school seniors. “Graduation, for instance, is a critical time of life. What I do is take an accumulation of all that work and effort and by asking the right questions, create their story on video or a magazine-style book. Since these memories are preserved, they can stay connected with the moments that bring meaning and purpose to their lives. Images are placeholders for the moments we hold dear, which is why it is so important to capture what the moment means.” “It is really incredible, the service that Sean provides. It is so much more than a file of pictures,” said teacher Maggie Weidinger of Flagstaff. “We hired him for Jake, our youngest son’s, senior pictures and it was such a great experience. Sean has an incredible ability to capture his personality and his life in his senior story. He interviewed

family and people that are close to Jake, took pictures, used old photographs and then used that information to develop a video and a magazine. For us, it’s even more meaningful because my father-in-law, who we were very close with, passed away last year, and Sean had interviewed and filmed him. It’s such a cool keepsake.” Using the latest generation of cameras, lenses and a whole lot of lights, Openshaw has set himself apart in the world of photography and photojournalism with his theatrical style and eye for detail. Northland Preparatory Academy (NPA) Varsity Girls Soccer Coach Michael Blair says Openshaw has been instrumental in helping the school’s athletes receive attention from college recruiters. “His thoughtful stories written about the seniors are very meaningful to the families. My own daughter’s college coach read a ‘Senior Story’ that Sean wrote about her and said it sealed the deal for a scholarship offer.” Openshaw met his wife, Keli, while working for the Arizona Daily Sun newspaper. They have two adult children, Kyle and Kayden. “I have five hats that I wear, and my family is No. 1,” he said. Fitness is also important to Openshaw. He is a triathlete and hiker. “I used to weigh 250 pounds and smoked two packs of cigarettes a day. I’m now running triathlons and run, bike or

swim five to six times a week. I also enjoy bike camping and will spend multiple days out in the woods. I’m planning a Grand Canyon rim-to-rimto rim [trip] in the fall.” Sean Openshaw Photography specializes in event, portrait, sports and commercial photography in Northern Arizona. For more information, visit www.seanopenshaw.com.

FAVORITE TIME OF DAY

My favorite time is around 3-6 a.m. During those three hours, I accept no phone calls and do not check email. I do not pick up my phone. I spend that time writing and journaling and doing client work such as processing photos. I shoot between 15,000 to 30,000 photos a month so, it’s a lot to go through.

ADVICE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

I know it’s cliché, but I can’t believe I get paid to do what I do. I wake up super motivated and I’m motivated all day long because I love capturing moments and love this field of work. So, no matter what you do, like what you do. Find something meaningful and exciting about it. Spending 15 years in the military, there were so many opportunities to hate it, but I would always look for what we were doing right now that excited me. You can always find the silver lining if you are convinced that it’s there. That nugget makes life fun.

Openshaw enjoys capturing moments in motion. This photo of Natalie Odem for All That Dance was created by using a trampoline. Openshaw was able to capture the San Francisco Peaks in the background. Photo courtesy of Sean Openshaw of Sean Openshaw Photography

GUILTY PLEASURE

Watching movies. Growing up, my family’s time together was when we would watch movies. My dad worked crazy shifts and we had a big family, so watching movies brings back good memories.

like him. I’ve always been a fan of his.

WHERE I WANT TO VISIT

When I was deployed, I spent nine months in Heidelberg, Germany, and was amazed by Europe. We are planning a trip to Italy next year. FBN

THE ACTOR WHO SHOULD PLAY ME

First thing that comes to my mind is Mel Gibson. The younger Mel Gibson. People are always telling me I look

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ROAD TRIP continued from page 3

prepared makes all the difference. Keep these in your car: Extra water and non-perishable snacks Jumper cables, gloves and reflectors Contact information for your roadside assistance A jack, lug wrench and your wheel lock key, if applicable While road tripping, it’s a good habit to keep your gas tank at least half full, especially in rural areas with fewer stations.

6. TECH, NAVIGATION AND DIAGNOSTICS

If your car has onboard navigation or software, make sure it’s updated before you leave. Dealerships typically check for updates during

routine service visits. Also, even if there are no warning lights, trust your instincts. If something feels off with your vehicle, schedule a diagnostic check before hitting the road. It’s far better than waiting for hours for a tow in triple-digit temperatures.

7. PLAN YOUR STOPS

While not a mechanical issue, planning your fuel, food and restroom stops ahead of time can prevent scrambling in unfamiliar areas. If you don’t have a go-to mechanic, consider scheduling a pre-trip check with a trusted dealership. It’s important to get your vehicle road-trip-ready so you can focus on making memories instead of being stranded. FBN

LINDE continued from page 17

many wonderful goals and keep a workforce of 750 people highly motivated to deliver the best guest experience possible. Rob has been a huge advocate for making the mountain accessible to kids and families, and recreationists of all abilities. He has been an amazing mentor to me and others, modeling what it means to be an effective leader who cares about people. We wish him and Susan a fantastic next chapter.” That next chapter includes a move to Bozeman, Montana, for Rob and Susan Linde. “We’re moving on to try something new and explore a new area of the country. We love Flagstaff. It’s been such a warm community with so much community involvement. It is a very special place, and Snowbowl is a very special mountain.” FBN

flagstaffbusinessnews.com WINEBELLY continued from page 12

sentatives, stops hopscotched between breweries and vineyards, including Verde Brewery Company. Here, owner Alex Goetting serves up 20 different brews in his Camp Verde location behind the popular Starbucks just off Interstate 17. In his mid 30s, Goetting is a seasoned craft beer artist who has come a long way from his first try at fermenting when he turned apple juice into alcohol. “It was disgusting.” But now, locals and travelers stop in for his microbrews, including his refreshing Watermelon Sour, which offers a hint of watermelon, but surprisingly isn’t sour. His Hefeweizen appeals to Blue Moon fans. And Gold Bucket and Honey Lager are local favorites. From his gleaming giant silver vats, he pours enough beer to service several pubs in Flagstaff including Hops on Birch, Mountain Top Tap Room and Pay-N-Take Beer and Wine Bar, along with a number of beer festivals and car club events in the region. During tours of his brewery, he discusses the boiling process that sterilizes the beer and brings out the flavor, the CO2 release that creates the fizz and the grains that are good for you, like oats. His operation is a family business, where Mom and Dad help out and Grandpa reminds him that “Budweiser

was once a local brewery, too.” Using local honey, hops, fruit and wildflowers, Goetting says his craft beer is truly a taste of the Verde Valley – and the spent grain gets recycled back to neighboring farm animals. Fully committed to his Camp Verde community, Goetting loves partnering with local events and enjoys welcoming in hikers, cyclists and sightseers. Beer lovers also can participate in his Brew for Life campaign, which offers “a beer a day for the rest of your life” with a $1,000 investment in the business. Moving on to the oasis of Alcantara Vineyards, kayakers gently paddle along the Verde River and horseback riders explore the lush foliage of the 81-acre property. Here, winemaker and vineyard Manager Ron Brumley greets groups and leads them through the vines and into the winery. “Everything is done by hand,” he said as he described the labor-intensive art of winemaking at the family-owned vineyard. He is thrilled to have volunteers join him in the harvest in August and September and notes that it takes five years from planting seeds to produce grapes and three more years to go from the vine to the glass. Luckily, Alcantara was founded 20 years ago and there are barrels and barrels of wine to go around, as some

60,000 bottles are filled, corked and labeled here each year. Using a tubular tool called a wine thief, Brumley dips into a barrel of Alcantara’s own Chianti-style red, demonstrating that this wine rivals any from Chianti, Italy. A short drive away is the Public Taproom in Cottonwood. Owned by Oak Creek Brewery, The Public Taproom is known for its dog-friendly atmosphere, live music on Fridays and selection of local craft beers. Friendly bartenders like Jamie Zimmer serve up beer flights as guests enjoy the laid-back vibe of the space that was once known as That Brewery. Meanwhile down the road is Chateau Tumbleweed, a collaboration of four friends who left their day jobs to make wine and create one of Clarkdale’s first commercial wineries and tasting rooms. Chateau Tumbleweed doesn’t own vineyards, but partners with Arizona growers to source premium grapes. “These tours make for wonderful memories and are a great way to see the diversity of the terrain while exploring something new and discovering Arizona’s quality wine,” said Rebekah, who requires a minimum of four guests per tour. “It’s a fun and worry-free experience!” FBN

JULY 2025 // Flagstaff Business News

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WILDLIFE continued from page 4

managing invasive species removal. SEMA is also renting equipment from regional suppliers in Flagstaff and Prescott Valley, including Empire Cat, Sunstate Equipment and United Rentals. “The whole project is under the Buy American Act,” Boyer said. So, almost everything they use is sourced domestically, and much of it is locally sourced.

INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT WITH WILDLIFE AND MOTORISTS IN MIND

Construction activity is currently focused on pouring fittings for one of several elk escape ramps, which provide one-way exit points for animals that may get trapped on the highway side of the 8-foot-high fencing. The full project includes not only the vegetated overpass but also 16 miles of fencing (eight miles on each side of I-17), designed to guide elk, deer and even black bears toward the safe crossing. “This is a proven system – it will work,” said Boyer, who previously helped construct the successful wildlife pass on State Route 260 between Forest Lakes and Christopher Creek. According to a recent Arizona Game and Fish Department report, elk-vehicle collisions were reduced by 84% within a year at the Christopher Creek section after fencing was put in place. Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) data supported the selection

TK Boyer of SEMA Construction says the Willard Springs Wildlife Overpass construction project on Interstate 17 is part of a national effort to make highways safer for both drivers and wildlife. Photos by Stacey Wittig

of the Willard Springs location, which spans from milepost 322.76 to milepost 331.13. The section of I-17 designated for the overpass and fencing accounted for 58% of all wildlife-vehicle collisions between Stoneman Lake Road and Flagstaff from 2018 to 2022. Within that broader 32-mile corridor, approximately 75% of those incidents involved elk – massive animals that can weigh up to 1,100 pounds. Over the past years, the agency fitted more than 200 elk near Flagstaff with GPS collars to track herd movement. Wildlife-vehicle collisions were also

logged. “During a study to help identify the locations of the crossings, we documented 100 elk and deer killed by vehicles each year on I-17 from Stoneman Lake to Flagstaff, and many of those go unreported, particularly those with commercial vehicles,” AZGFD biologist Jeff Gagnon told Quad Cities Business News. When asked about crashes involving commercial vehicles, he explained they’re difficult to track because commercial drivers often don’t stop – unlike passenger vehicles, which typically sustain enough damage to

SEMA rents equipment from regional suppliers in Prescott Valley and Flagstaff for the project. Boyer says almost everything is sourced domestically and much of it is locally sourced.

require a crash report. “Game and Fish says [the overpass] will be used more heavily after two years, when elk establish patterns of herd movement,” explained Boyer.

LONG-TERM VALUE FOR NORTHERN ARIZONA

With project completion scheduled for fall 2026, economic benefits will continue for at least two construction seasons – along with potential longterm gains in reduced vehicle damage, fewer insurance claims and improved driver safety.

As work continues, the Arizona Department of Transportation urges drivers to slow down and stay alert in the active construction zone near Willard Springs. FBN Stacey Wittig is a writer based in Munds Park. Besides Flagstaff Business News, you can find her bylines at Forbes Travel, Food Wine Travel Magazine and UnstoppableStaceyTravel.com.

FIZZ continued from page 1

Navajo Fizz Craft Soda has eight flavors in its 12-ounce bottles and four flavors in 12-ounce cans. Photos by Peter Corbett

serves breakfast burritos, fry bread, lamb sandwiches, blue corn mush and a two-pound Soo Big Burger with all the fixings. The monster burger comes on a 12-inch brioche bun or fry bread, known as Dah diniilghaazhi in the Navajo language. Sliced like a pizza, the burger is best shared with travel mates. It comes with homemade chips and a 44-ounce drink. The SBB is priced at $40, or $29 for customers with a Twins Arrows casino club card. It’s served on a commemorative tin plate.

About six people per day tackle the Soo Big Burger, said Mike Apachee, Travel Plaza store manager. He grew up in Lupton, near the New Mexico border and worked with his mother who ran a trading post there. The Navajo Blue Travel Plaza also sells a variety of Navajo branded shirts hats and food products, including bags of Navajo Blue Pinon Coffee, three flavors of Navajo BBQ Sauce and Navajo Beef Jerky. The natural ingredients for the food products and craft soda are sourced from the Navajo Agricultural

Brewmaster Ryan Worthington oversees the bottling of Navajo Fizz orange soda.

Products Industry farm in Farmington, New Mexico. The Navajo Fizz soda, first brewed in 2019, is made in small batches of three barrels or 93 gallons. Brewmaster Ryan Worthington has 17 years of experience. He explained the soda-making process: In the first tank, a simple syrup is made with water, natural cane sugar and different fruit or herbs for various flavors, such as sumac berries for the strawberry

soda. That mixture is heated to pasteurize the liquid. The soda mixture is then transferred to a second tank where it’s chilled to 33 degrees Fahrenheit. A custom carbonation system adds bubbles to the Fizz Soda, which takes up to 10 hours. A bottling machine then rinses the bottles, fills them with soda and caps them. “It’s pretty simple,” Worthington said. “We can do about 450 bottles

per hour. It’s a labor of love making this artisan handmade product.” The annual production is about 5,000 cases, Schmietenknop said. “All of our guests love to come by and see the bottling process happen.” FBN

Flagstaff Business News // JULY 2025

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RODEO continued from page 19

Steer wrestling and team-roping cowboys kept the crowd cheering. Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

community, celebration and pushing boundaries while holding fast to tradition,” she said. “In Cowboy Mounted Shooting, we carry two 45 single action revolvers and we shoot balloons from our horses.” Other rodeo performances included Barrel Racing, Bull Riding, Bareback, Saddle Bronco, Breakaway, Team Roping, Steer Wrestling and Tie Down Roping. “For over a decade, the Flagstaff Pro Rodeo has stood as more than

just a local event – it has become a symbol of what passion, perseverance and community can achieve. As the founder and current president, I’ve had the privilege of dedicating 13 years to growing this rodeo into Flagstaff’s most anticipated summer tradition,” added Daulton. “We’re very happy to have hosted this year’s Flagstaff Pro Rodeo at the historic Fort Tuthill County Park,” said Coconino County Manager Andy Bertelsen. “It was truly a des-

tination event that drew participants and spectators from all over the West to enjoy a weekend in our beautiful county.” The Flagstaff Pro Rodeo supports several local youth sports teams, youth rodeo athletes, high school cheer squads, We Care NAZ Suicide Awareness and Prevention, Shadows Foundation, Horses Heroes and Hope, Hozhoni Foundation and

Flagstaff Family Food Center. This is our third year coming to the rodeo and we love it,” said Flagstaff nurse practitioner Bryan Ebeling. “We live just 10 minutes away, so we bring the whole family and it’s such a great outdoor experience.” Canadians Nadia Davis and her husband were very impressed with the Flagstaff Pro Rodeo. “I’ve never seen anything like it. It was amazing,”

she said. “Watching the children riding sheep was wild. We’re staying in Prescott but came up to Flagstaff to see the rodeo. This was insane and one of the best rodeos I’ve ever seen in my life.” FBN

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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 Troy Bix | 928-310-9662 Troy@flagstaffbusinessnews.com Advertising Manager Linda Thein | 602-799-0583 linda@flagstaffbusinessnews.com Account Executive Regina Salas | 928-699-4272 Regina@flagstaffbusinessnews.com Tyler Hood | 928-440-0747 Tyler@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

Photography V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography, Betsey Bruner, Kay Lyons Contributing Writers Betsey Bruner, Kevin Schindler, Bonnie Stevens, Veronica Tierney, Stacey Wittig, Peter Corbett, Mary Marini, Stan Bindell 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.

JULY 2025 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews COWBOY continued from page 6

He describes birds picking up every crumb, ants moving leaves and disappearing into the earth and furry caterpillars with their hair standing on end. “The closer the wasp nest is to ground level, the colder it’s going to be at winter.” Rollins has no shortage of cowboy wisdom, Western history, life lessons from the range, leadership advice and rules to live by – and he is happy to share all of it, including camp kitchen etiquette, through the internet and in person. “We will not have foul language in camp. We will not talk politics.” This fiercely patriotic and faith-driven cowboy is a straight-shooter with a gift for storytelling and a penchant for manners. “I don’t tolerate rudeness. My mother said, ‘I gave you manners for free. If you don’t use them, they’re costly.’” As is his tradition, he asks the cowboys to gather outside the camp kitchen, remove their hats and join him for a moment to bless the food. Today’s gratitude was about the bacon, corn grits and gravy simmering nearby in cast iron frying pans. Time-honored rules, he says, remain the Code of the West today. “You don’t ride too close to the kitchen – you don’t dust the cook,” he said, adding that the camp cook, or “Cookie,” held an important position, always second in command. “He was the cook. He was the doctor. He was the dentist. Cookie’s job was to make sure them boys was fed. This old chuckwagon was more than just a kitchen sittin’ out there in the prairie. This was home away from home for tired, weary and hungry cowboys.” The lighted lantern hanging from the camp kitchen was a beacon for cowboys arriving after sundown. “They knew where they could come – if they’d been out on an old cold night shivering – to get out there by Cookie’s’ fire.” Camp rules, including pitching in to help and being considerate and respectful of others, don’t apply just around camp, he explained. “They are the code of conduct that go around with you the rest of your life. That is what we call the ‘Code of the West.’” “We sure enjoyed his camp etiquette and fun stories,” said Babbitt Ranches General Manager Billy Cordasco. “Kent has a lot of fans in Northern Arizona including cowboys, hunters and campers who tune in to his Youtube channel for Dutch oven cooking tips and ideas. It was a special and meaningful visit.”

From top to bottom: Kent Rollins has been feeding cowboys from his Studebaker chuckwagon since 1993. Cowboys line up for their hot breakfast. Spring Works is an annual event at scenic Aso Ranch Camp on Babbitt Ranches north of the San Francisco Peaks. Rollins travels with a production team and a large trailer to feed cowboys at ranches across the country. Photos by Bonnie Stevens

“When Kent reached out to us, we knew Spring Works would be the perfect time for the cowboys to be treated to a wonderful hot meal out on the range,” said Ranch Manager Clay Rodgers. “We all enjoyed his cooking and he sure knows how to fill up cowboys who are working hard and need a lot of energy for the day.” Rollins also talks about “riding for the brand,” as still important today. “When you’re working for somebody and you’re branding cattle, you have to put that brand on there right. You want to make a mark. You want to make sure that it’s correct because you’re representing that person. You’re riding

for that brand.” So, whatever you’re riding for, he explained, “Do it with pride and do it with honor. You have your name and your word. My mother would always tell me, ‘Be sure and not tarnish either one.’ And when you talk about deals that were made, the only contract we had back then was a handshake. You knew when you got a hold of it, it was full of pride and it was full of honesty.” FBN

Kent Rollins and his production crew recorded the visit to Babbitt Ranches in Northern Arizona. It is expected to be featured on his YouTube channel in 2026.

Tip of the Month:

Disconnect all outside garden hoses from wall hydrants in winter. Frost proof hose bibs require your hose to be removed for adequate draining of the barrel which is hidden inside the wall of your house and subject to freezing if not drained. 6993 N. Columbine, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, Tel (928) 526-7006 | (928) 526-6231 www.intermountainaz.com | admin@intermountainaz.com

Let our family take care of yours!

Flagstaff Business News // JULY 2025

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Launch Party August 7, 2025

Join us for our annual City of Flagstaff Campus Open House and BBQ!

A FULL DAY OF FREE WORKSHOPS LED BY BUSINESS LEADERS & ENTREPRENEURS Ariel Strong - Fireflight Dan Kasprzyk - Poba Medical Danae Presler - City of Flagstaff Dara Wong - Shift Flagstaff & Oeno David Johns - AWD Law David Richards - BlockchainUnmasked Derek Turner - Rooftop Solar Dr. Tanya Ospitale - Compass CBS Dustin Moore - Sunwest Bank Katherine O’Donnell - OP Creative Communications LuAnn Roberts - Roberts Accounting Solutions Rylan Morton-Stamer - Forestdale Farm Sarah Ann Lesslie - Chocolita Scott Hathcock - Moonshot Shareé Hurts - APS Stephanie Simms - Finance-Ability Tony Majors - APS Whitney Slightham - Mesa Marketing

Moonshot Flagstaff Campus 2201 N Gemini Dr. Flagstaff, AZ 86001

Join Us! TOUR THE CAMPUS MEET MOONSHOT FOUNDERS FREE WORKSHOPS GOING GREEN CERTIFICATION FOOD & DRINKS ICE CREAM INSPIRATIONAL SPEAKERS RESOURCES NETWORKING

Sponsored by APS donated two sets of two tickets + 1 parking pass for raffle for the AZ Diamondbacks vs. Cincinnati Reds game on Sunday, August 24 at 1:10pm. RSVP to Going Green Morning Sessions & Attendance Required.

RSVP & learn more at moonshotflagstaff.com or scan the QR code above.