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INSIDE THE SEPTEMBER 2026 ISSUE: Northern Arizona Visitors Buy Four-Legged Souvenirs p. 3 Flagstaff Couple Opens Wellness Clinic p. 4 Karra Polder Scans for Health Deficiencies in Minutes p. 9

Y MANAGE NC M E GE

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PUBLIC SAFETY H TI N G - E

rom bold graphic tees and tattoo-inspired apparel to motocross hats, footwear and accessories, Prescott Valley-based Vulcinity has built a national custom-

Dave says they began selling online in 2011 and Vulcinity.com became the permanent home of the business in 2014. He attributes their success to reliability, enabling their growth from a small online operation to an established independent retailer. “Consistency has been the biggest factor. Retail changes are constant, so we have learned to adapt without losing sight of what customers expect:

04 P- F4IRE - POLI& 4 CE ONT -

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By Stan Bindell, FBN

er base around clothing and brands with an edge. The family-owned online retailer, which promotes brands such as Metal Mulisha, Sullen, Fasthouse, Flojos and Last Call Co., reflecting a mix of action sports and surf and alternative lifestyle cultures, recently surpassed 50,000 orders shipped across the country, a milestone that owners Dave and Lori Walters reached largely on their own.

Meet the Six City Council Candidates p. 16

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Vulcinity celebrates success selling clothing with an edge

Colton House-Style Estate for Sale p. 14

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Northern Arizona Online Retailer Ships 50,000th Order

An End to Historic Arizona Mountain Inn & Cabins p. 13

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Pickin’ in the Pines Turning Twenty, Attracting Thousands, Boosting Business Banjos, fiddles, guitars and mandolins are part of Flagstaff’s fall soundtrack Pickin’ in the Pines has become a destination event, built around the culture of acoustic music, with attendees invited to participate in informal jam sessions, educational workshops, a band contest, community dance and kids’ activities. Photo courtesy of Robin Frenette

September 2026 | Issue 9 Volume 19

By Angela Menninger

entire weekend – filling campsites, hotel rooms, restaurants and other local businesses while his September, Pickin’ in the Pines Bluegrass showcasing the city as a hub for live music and outdoor-oriented events. Festival will mark two decades of bringing “It’s a festival, but it’s also a community,” is the musicians and fans to Northern Arizona, philosophy that has helped shape the event since with organizers expecting roughly 3,200 people a its first year in 2006. day for the three-day event. Founded by members of Flagstaff Friends of The festival returns Sept. 18-20 to Pepsi AmTraditional Music, a nonprofit organization, phitheater at Fort Tuthill County Park, where its Pickin’ in the Pines Bluegrass Festival was created anniversary lineup will feature nationally recogto celebrate traditional and contemporary bluenized bluegrass and acoustic musicians alongside grass while reflecting the broader interests of the regional and local performers. organization’s members. But organizers say the festival has become Today, the festival draws music fans from about more than music. Through the years, throughout Northern Arizona and the Southwest, Pickin’ in the Pines has developed into a destination event that brings visitors to Flagstaff for an

Continued on page 33

Flagstaff Business News // SEPTEMBER 2026

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SEPTEMBER 2026 // Flagstaff Business News

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The second Saturday in July is the day of the Annual Hashknife Colt Sale, where crowds gather to see American Quarter Horses in the rolling high country and families prepare to bring one or more home. Photos by Kay Lyons

Hashknife Colts Become Souvenirs for Trip Out West Visit to Babbitt Ranches expected to become tradition for Florida couple

anchers Justin and Brittney Conerly of Lake Placid, Florida, were on vacation, visiting Arizona for the first time, riding the Grand Canyon Railway and enjoying the diversity of the northern part of the state, particularly how the rolling hills of the high desert give way to the majestic ponderosa pine forest. “This experience has been really neat,” said Justin. “Many of the towns reflect the Western heritage and traditions, and the cowboy way of life is being lived out by a lot of the people here.” By the end of their vacation, the Conerlys left Arizona with the kind of souvenirs that don’t fit in a suitcase: two Hashknife colts. The Babbitt Ranches Annual Hashknife Colt Sale was happening right in the middle of their stay. Their friends, Cowboy Kelly Holmquist,

who joined Babbitt Ranches in February, and his wife, Jolee, spent days talking up the Babbitt operation, especially the horse program. “We’ll probably be back here every year,” said Justin. “There are not a lot of horses like this where we’re at, good cow horses. We may end up buying more. Everything looks good – how they are bred, how they handle. The mares seem to be gentle and easygoing. The colts get a lot of that temperament out of their mama.” Seated in the bleachers on Saturday morning, July 11, at Spider Web Camp, Justin asked Brittney what she thought about buying one. “She surprised me when she said, ‘Do you want to buy two?’ I said, ‘Sure, why not?’” The two colts included a bay horse with a white snip on his nose and a dark brown colt that’s nearly black. The couple has five children, ages 14 and under, but Justin says his 8-year-old daughter is the most excited. “She’s Continued on page 34

Zeke Holcomb of Sky Nine Ranch near Winslow visited the Colt Sale with his girlfriend, Sierra Hernandez. After purchasing two more colts this month, the Holcomb family now owns eight Babbitt horses, acquired to build its growing horse program.

Flagstaff Business News // SEPTEMBER 2026

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Helping Women Age with Grace New wellness clinic allows patients time to be heard

one. “But, I was not, in fact, sedentary.” Her frustrations grew and led her to Prescott for hormone replacement therapy (HRT). “I never felt heard,” she said, addBy Betsey Bruner, FBN ing that she was working hard to live a healthy, active life, but everything ometimes a personal frustration can lead to a breakthrough. she did was an effort. Finally, she learned she had a hypothyroid issue. Such was the case when Heather Breckenridge, now 42, began This began her journey to help womto experience health issues in her mid en age gracefully. In June, she and Jesse opened 30s, including a lack of energy, aching Breckenridge Wellness Clinic. “What knees, brain fog and low libido, poswe would like to see is that people, all sible side effects of perimenopause, people, find a provider that they can when a woman undergoes major connect with, be transparent with, hormonal transitions on the way to make achievable, attainable goals menopause. with, and live the best, healthiest lives “I was told I was ‘too young’ to they can.” be experiencing any sort of peri“Opening a clinic wasn’t the menopause,” said Breckenridge, who initial plan,” said Jesse. “Heather was moved to Flagstaff in 2007 and is going through clinicals and watchmarried to Jesse Breckenridge, 45, a Flagstaff native. “I was told to change ing providers be oversaturated and not have sufficient time to care for my eating habits, increase my exerpeople. She was sharing that concern cise and really look at my lifestyle.” at home when a dream was born. As Meanwhile, her lab results were she edged closer to graduation, we normal, she said. decided to pull the trigger and open Breckenridge had been a college a clinic where we could provide care athlete competing in soccer and and allow patients the time they need basketball, but now she was told her to be heard.” fatigue was part of the aging process Heather is a family nurse pracand that her body was adjusting from an active lifestyle to a more sedentary titioner who has worked in many

specialty areas in nursing for 14 years, including ICU, trauma and flight nursing. Jesse, who earned his bachelor’s degree in construction management at Northern Arizona University, previously worked for Machine Solutions, a Flagstaff tech company that makes advanced medical devices. There, he says, he was able to expand his understanding and knowledge of the medical field by being involved in the project management of medical machines. “Through this venture of opening a clinic, he obtained his laser tech and laser safety officer [certification],” said Heather. “We knew the dream would be to work together,” said Jesse. “On our wellness-minded path, the Artemis T2, came to light as another way to care for women. This laser focuses on skin tightening and rejuvenation by stimulating collagen production. We have seen some excellent care in sports medicine uses as it increases temperature and has vacuum suction that increases blood flow and decreases healing time.” Their newly remodeled 2,200-square-foot facility includes space for general practice, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), laser treatments, a lab, and urgent care.

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Breckenridge Wellness Clinic was created by Jesse and Heather Breckenridge, who opened the facility in June. Courtesy photo

“The intimacy of our clinic is warm and reassuring,” said Heather. “Most days, we can offer same-day appointments. When you aren’t well, you want to be seen. When it’s on your mind, you want guidance from someone you know and trust, that

you have a relationship with.” FBN Breckenridge Wellness Clinic is located at 2615 N. Fourth St., Suite 6. For more information, call 928-549-0730.

SEPTEMBER 2026 // Flagstaff Business News

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From Flagstaff to NASA: Local Teen Takes Aim at Wildfire BASIS senior Alexei Barrow helps explore autonomous drone technology for faster wildfire detection and response By Betsey Bruner, FBN

hen students share what they did on their summer vacation, 17-year-old Alexei Barrow has an A+ answer. This senior at BASIS Flagstaff, a top-rated, public charter school on North Gemini Road, picked up a summer gig with NASA, using autonomous drone technology for wildfire detection. “It was super exciting to participate in this internship – truly a once-ina-lifetime opportunity!” Barrow said. “The people you’re surrounded by are some of the most qualified people in the world – super smart and nice.” The eight-week summer job was sponsored by Ames, one of NASA’s 10 field centers, located in Silicon Valley in the southern part of the San Francisco Bay area. Formally known as A Multi-Tier Autonomous Aerial Architecture for Wildfire Detection,

Growing up in Flagstaff surrounded by ponderosa pine forest helped spark Alexei Barrow’s interest in wildfire science. The 17 year old hopes to pursue a career developing solutions that better protect forests and communities from wildfire.

Alexei, a BASIS Flagstaff senior was one of 48 high school students selected for an eight-week NASA internship and the only participant from Arizona.

Courtesy photos

Characterization and Communication in Infrastructure-Denied Environments, the internship began in mid-June and ended in August. “This project was both science-heavy and engineering-heavy,” said Barrow, who worked on the project remotely. “We needed to understand the combustion chemis-

RETIREMENT COMMUNITY ARIZONA

try of wildfire fuel and what goes into wildfire spread.” The engineering aspect included using simulation software like CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CFD (Computerized Fluid Dynamics). To qualify for the internship, applicants needed to have a passion for science, work well in teams, have

a genuine curiosity about what surrounds them and express this in their applications. Barrow says his BASIS guidance counselor, Alex Cohen Gray, helped him during the application process and has been a “great mentor.” She is also a teacher at BASIS. “He has taken every opportunity

to learn from mentors and then apply new skills toward his future endeavors,” she said. “I have no doubt that Alexei is the perfect balance of being your traditional go-getter, unhindered in his communication abilities and desire to advocate for himself and his education, and incredibly Continued on page 35

SEPTEMBER 2026 // Flagstaff Business News

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Flagstaff Family Food Center Receives Historic $1 Million Donation to Expand Neighborhood Distribution Program

lagstaff Family Food Center (FFFC), the leading hunger relief organization in Northern Arizona, has received an anonymous donation of $1 million to expand its neighborhood distribution program, dramatically increasing access to nutritious groceries for residents of rural and Tribal communities throughout the region. It is the largest one-time donation FFFC has received in its 35-year history. “The demand for food assistance continues to climb, driven by higher housing, food and gas prices, and compounded by a reduction in benefits for those in need,” said FFFC President and CEO Ethan Amos. That includes recent cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). In many cases, communities either don’t have a food pantry or their existing services are stretched beyond capacity, he added, and the people they serve don’t have the means to travel to FFFC’s Flagstaff warehouse. “This donation will allow us to bring the food to them,” Amos said. Since 2020, FFFC food box distributions have increased 181%, he added.

The $1 million gift will fund a threeyear phased expansion that increases the frequency and reach of food distribution across northern Arizona, while establishing new, regularly scheduled distributions in underserved rural and Tribal communities with limited access to nutritious food. Much of the funding will go to the purchase of three new 26-foot trucks with refrigeration systems, essential for transporting produce, milk and other perishables. The gift will also pay for pallet jacks, operational supplies, supplemental food purchases and staffing of the expanded programs. At a recent neighborhood distribution in Winslow, clients were excited to hear about the upcoming changes. A single mother in Winslow who lost her SNAP benefits last year said the mobile distribution has “made a huge difference for my family.” Her work schedule keeps her from reaching any food pantry outside of Winslow. Another Winslow client, who is currently facing a delay in her family’s SNAP benefits, said “FFFC’s assistance has been more helpful than ever.” Before the Winslow distribution began, she said, the closest food assistance was

in Leupp. Flagstaff Family Food Center was born out of the generosity of a local businessman named George McCullough, who would give his business card to anyone he met on the street who was in need. He would direct them to the Grand Canyon Café, where they could use the business card to get a hot meal and, at the end of the month, he’d settle the bill with the restaurant owners. That act of philanthropy ultimately led to the establishment of a community kitchen, which opened in the Sunnyside neighborhood on Christmas Day 1991. In 2013, FFFC took over the Northern Arizona Food Bank, and expanded its services beyond hot meals and bagged lunches to food boxes. In recent years, it has established its mobile food distribution program, acquired the Grand Canyon Food Pantry Inc. and began operating Louie’s Cupboard, the food pantry based at Northern Arizona University. Last year, the donor behind the $1 million gift provided $650,000 to help FFFC create a dedicated space for agency partners so they could

The grant will allow Flagstaff Family Food Center to expand its neighborhood distribution program to new rural and Tribal communities in Northern Arizona. Courtesy photo

“shop” for items for their clients. The 2,837-square-foot Flagstaff Agency Market, located next to FFFC’s main warehouse on Huntington Drive, opened this spring. “These two gifts are transformative in how they are allowing us to scale up

our mission,” said Amos. “Our motto is ‘Neighbors Feeding Neighbors, Every Day’ and the generosity of this donor is reducing the barriers to getting nutritious food to the people who need it now and in the future.” FBN

Flagstaff Business News // SEPTEMBER 2026

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Business Woman FBN

of the Month

Wellness at Your Fingertips Karra Polder offers clients a quick, noninvasive look into their overall health By V. Ronnie Tierney, FBN

or most of her life, Karra Polder has had a passion for wellness. Her desire to become more informed about her health led her to a friend in California who ran a successful wellness scan business. Pleased with the results and inspired by the concept, she decided to bring it home to Flagstaff. Since May, Flagstaff Wellness Scan has been going strong. “I’ve always believed that the more we understand our bodies, the better choices we can make for ourselves,” said Polder. “What I love about the scan is that it gives people an opportunity to learn more about their bodies in a way that is simple and informational.” Using a sensor placed on your index finger, Polder says the scanner is designed to collect subtle electrical and electromagnetic response patterns through the sensor using a Quantum Bio Scanner. “At the end of your appointment, you will walk away with a detailed report that explains things you can do to improve different areas of your body that need extra support, such as vitamins and supplements.” Bryson Smith with Security Title Agency says that he was impressed by the accuracy of the scan. “It reflected different aspects of my health and lifestyle, and the results gave me useful information I could act on. It prompted me to take a closer look at some of my habits and make meaningful lifestyle changes, which I

Karra Polder demonstrates how the wellness scan provides feedback on 45 areas of the body. Phots by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

continue to adhere to.” “The goal is not to diagnose, it is to help you become more informed and intentional about your body and where it might need more support,” said Polder. The scan itself takes less than two minutes and the entire appointment typically takes less than 30 minutes.

// “I went through training and was able to dive into it deeper. This has helped my own personal health journey, as I was able to see how well my body was absorbing nutrients and what vitamins, amino acids and coenzymes I was deficient in. It has also helped my family members with their heart health as well as other health issues.” //

After the scan, Polder reviews the results with the client, which she says provides biofeedback from 45 areas in the body, including cardiovascular health and circulation, lung function and oxygen patterns and digestion and nutrient utilization. Polder then follows up with an email and a copy of the report. “I’m not a medical doctor,” she said. “I’m not diagnosing anyone with anything. This is more informational and educational. It’s a great way to be proactive with your health.” Working in Flagstaff real estate since 2012, Polder says she felt called to serve the Flagstaff community in a different way when her friend in California introduced her to the Wellness Scan and its success. “I went through training and was able to dive into it deeper. This has helped my own personal health journey, as I was able to see how well

my body was absorbing nutrients and what vitamins, amino acids and coenzymes I was deficient in. It has also helped my family members with their heart health as well as other health issues.” “Karra made the entire experience comfortable and informative, and I would recommend the scan to anyone interested in getting a better understanding of their overall wellness,” said Smith. “The process is very easy. You just use your finger. It was short and to the point.” said CycleBar owner Sarah

Milios. “Karra went through a lot of data. She zeroed in on areas that are treatable and fixable and she looked at areas that were of a concern. That was helpful.” The initial charge for a session with Polder is $75 and follow up sessions are $50. Children can also be scanned for wellness. FBN To learn more or schedule an appointment, call 928-606-4532 or visit https://flagstaffwellnessscan.canva.site/.

SEPTEMBER 2026 // Flagstaff Business News

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Coconino High School graduate Hailey Sharp maintains and loads weapons on Navy aircraft. Courtesy photo

Coconino High School Graduate Participates in World’s Largest Maritime Warfare Exercise

etty Officer 3rd Class Hailey Sharp, a Flagstaff native, is currently deployed aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt, a Nimitz-class nuclear-powered aircraft carrier operating out of San Diego and participating in the biennial Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise in and around the Hawaiian Islands. Sharp graduated from Coconino High School in 2023. She says the skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those she learned growing up in Flagstaff. “I learned to never take anything for granted,” she said. “Nothing is handed to you and everything you have is a blessing.” Sharp joined the Navy three years ago. Today, she serves as an aviation ordnanceman, maintaining and loading the weapons carried on Navy aircraft. “I joined the Navy because I wanted a foundation to build something better for myself and my family,” she said. As the world’s largest international maritime exercise, RIMPAC 2026 brings together forces from 31 nations, approximately 40 surface ships, five submarines, 14 national land forces, more than 140 aircraft and an estimated 25,000 personnel. The exercise provides

a unique training opportunity that helps participants foster and sustain cooperative relationships critical to ensuring safety at sea and security across the world’s oceans. RIMPAC 2026 marks the 30th exercise in a series that began in 1971. The theme of RIMPAC 2026 is “Partners: Integrated and Prepared.” According to a Navy news release, participating nations and forces exercise a wide range of capabilities that demonstrate the flexibility of maritime forces. Those capabilities range from disaster relief and maritime security operations to sea control and complex warfighting. The training program includes gunnery, missile, anti-submarine and air defense exercises, as well as amphibious, counter-piracy, mine clearance, explosive ordnance disposal, diving and salvage operations. “This is my first time ever being out to sea and it has taught me a lot about my job,” said Sharp. During RIMPAC, a network of partners trains and operates together to strengthen collective forces and promote a free and open Indo-Pacific, according to the Navy news release. FBN

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

Cultivating Wine and the Verde Valley Alcantara winemaker Ron Brumley brings experience, energy and a hands-on approach to Arizona wine

ehind the rows of vines, rolling hills and award-winning wines of Alcantara Vineyards & Winery is winemaker and vineyard manager Ron Brumley, who devotes much of his time to growing grapes, making wine and overseeing vineyard operations. Brumley’s family roots in Arizona stretch back more than a century. His great-grandmother was born in the Arizona Territory near Morenci. He attended Westwood High School in Mesa and studied computer science, recreation, tourism and marketing at Arizona State University. After working in technology, film and advertising for 30 years, Brumley entered the wine industry 16 years ago. Much of his winemaking education came through hands-on experience in the cellar. “I read a lot of books and research from the American Society of Enology and Viticulture (ASEV) and worked as an apprentice.”

Brumley worked as an assistant winemaker at Javelina Leap Vineyard & Winery before joining Alcantara Vineyards & Winery. Alcantara Vineyards & Winery Tasting Room and Wine Club Manager Laurie Turner has worked in the wine industry for 20 years in Napa and Sonoma. She says she is very impressed with what Brumley has been able to do. “When I came to Arizona, I was intrigued by the varietals that were grown here,” she said. “Then I came to Alcantara Vineyards & Winery and I was blown away by the wines, which have a lot to do with Ron and his winemaking style.” In addition to his responsibilities at Alcantara, Brumley manages four other vineyards in the Verde Valley. “I love the way he brings in an old-world approach to wine-making, making organic and natural wines, particularly the Estate Malbec. He Continued on page 32

We a when yo

Alcantara Vineyards & Winery Manager Ron Brumley often is found working in the cellar. The bins are 5% of this harvest. Photo by Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

We are here when you need us. 2187 N. Vickey Street, Flagstaff, AZ 86004 (928) 527-1899 (888) 681-1899 tgcaz.org

SEPTEMBER 2026 // Flagstaff Business News

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// BUSINESS CENTS // BY BONNIE STEVENS

Your Life Was Meant for High-Altitude Achievement

he late Northern Arizona University Professor and Journalism and Mass Communications Department Chair Ray Newton once said to me, “This isn’t a dress rehearsal!” That sort of ruined a particular pity party I was having at the time, but it gave me the kick in the pants I needed. It made me realize that we all have this amazing opportunity and responsibility really, to make our short lifetimes meaningful. And “meaningful” is a word that is deeply personal for only you to define. What can you achieve that would make you most proud to be you? How do you want to be remembered? What is the best version of yourself by your own definition using your own unique gifts? If you think that no one will care and no one will notice anyway, I beg to differ. With cameras, recording devices, Alexa and Siri seemingly everywhere, make no mistake – our lives are indeed leaving an imprint on history. And who knows what future

archaeologists will dig up! What if the evidence of your life is one of the few remaining artifacts from the tribe known as The Arizonans being studied in the year 7026? Think about this: Hemiunu lived nearly 5,000 years ago in ancient Egypt. He was actually a prince, but probably never received the same attention, praise and elaborate afterlife sendoff as some of his royal relatives. Yet, the man who may well be the world’s foremost expert on ancient Egypt says his research points to Hemiunu as the architect of the Great Pyramid of Giza! Dr. Zahi Hawass is a larger-thanlife personality who may well spend more time in ancient Egypt than on modern sand. So, when I asked him which Egyptian figure was his favorite, I expected one of the usual royal celebrities. But it wasn’t King Tut, Cleopatra or even the beautiful Queen Nefertiti. It was Hemiunu. Dr. Hawass appreciated the purpose and meaning of Hemiunu’s life. The discipline. The math! And the

effort that continues to gobsmack the world today. Dr. Hawass told me that one of his favorite discoveries was the graves of the pyramid builders and their village. He was happy to report that his research indicated they were not slaves but the working class. He has great appreciation for those who show up every day, practice their craft and eventually move a mountain, or perhaps more accurately, a pile of sand that becomes a mountain. This is why I am so thrilled to be showcasing a panel of powerful women who have diligently forged their own paths, climbed their own mountains and, through some wickedly rough terrain, reached the rare air of high-altitude achievement. These women will tell you the honest truth of what it took to stand at their own precipice of power – and then find the courage to step forward into the place they knew they were meant to reach. Meet pioneering television news anchorwoman Mary Jo West, com-

mercial airline pilot Captain Kathleen Delany, entrepreneur and cancer survivor Cindy May of Cindy May Marketing and Clinical Behavioral Therapist and ATS AeroSystems Chief Operations Officer Janie Ross and hear their Tips for High-Altitude Achievement. These very real women will share their sometimes-daunting lived experiences and insights about navigating challenges, embracing opportunities, building confidence and continuing to reach higher – at every stage of life. Bright Side Bookshop at 18 N. San Francisco St. in downtown Flagstaff is hosting this free inspirational event and book signing, sponsored in part by Flagstaff Business News. Business Leadership Professor Dr. Ronda Beaman will be joining me as we moderate the discussion starting at 6 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 25. We are thrilled and deeply honored that our book, “Precipice of Power: A Woman’s Guide to High Attitude Achievement,”

featuring these women and more, will be available at the locally owned Bright Side Bookshop. Everyone is invited. However, the event will no doubt be particularly impactful to teenage girls and women of all ages as they meet and hear from these impressive women as they navigate their own path to reach their greatest potential. Although there is no charge to attend, guests should reserve their seat right away by visiting brightsidebookshop.com. We can all use a little high-octane fuel to recharge and reach higher as we arrive each day on the stage of our lives. Come be inspired at An Evening of Tips for High-Altitude Achievement because as my friend and mentor Ray Newton would say, “This isn’t a dress rehearsal!” 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.

PROTECTING LIVES, REDUCING RESPONSE TIMES AND PREPARING FOR TOMORROW.

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Flagstaff Business News // SEPTEMBER 2026

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NAH Vice President of Philanthropy Maraka Oltrogge, Redemption Counseling Center licensed clinical counselor Christina Curry, Guardian Medical Transport paramedic Emily Koehn, Flagstaff Police Department Lieutenant Kevin Sapp, Flagstaff Fire Department Deputy Chief Chris Fennell and Behavioral Health Clinical Manager Monika Freeman, RN, participated in a panel discussion during NAH's Mental Health Matters initiative in May. Courtesy photo

NAH Receives $200K Grant for First Responders’ Mental Health

orthern Arizona Healthcare (NAH) has received a $200K grant from the Hearst Foundations to help fund the NAH Mental Health Matters for First Responders program, supporting NAH’s Guardian Air Transport and Guardian Medical Transport first responders in receiving critical mental health support. This grant was awarded following efforts from NAH’s Office of Philanthropy and its relationship with the Hearst Foundations. The Mental Health Matters for First Responders program provides confidential trauma-informed counseling, crisis debriefing and other resources to help these community heroes process the trauma they experience daily on the job and maintain their own mental wellness. These resources are delivered in ways that accommodate first responders’ schedules, respect their privacy and build trust within their professional community. The grant to support first responder counseling came as a result of NAH’s commitment to supporting mental health community-wide. Those efforts took a significant step forward during Mental Health Awareness Month in May. Throughout the month, the NAH Office of Philanthropy partnered with local organizations and businesses, including title sponsor Health First Foundation, to host a series of mental health-themed events to raise awareness about the importance of mental wellness. More than a thousand community members attended 35 Mental Health Matters events that connected people who wanted to learn more about the cause and show their support. In addition to these awareness events, there were a variety of fundraising events that raised $65,000 to support the NAH Mental Health Matters for First Responders program. “The incredible response from our community during Mental Health Awareness Month demonstrates a shared commitment to those who dedicate their lives to protecting ours. This

grant from the Hearst Foundations is yet another show of support for some of our most selfless neighbors who support us when we call for help,” said NAH Vice President of Philanthropy Maraka Oltrogge. “The entire month was a huge success, thanks to the generosity from the community. We are deeply grateful to everyone who engaged, volunteered and donated, including NAH’s Behavioral Health department, the Flagstaff Fire Department, Flagstaff Police Department and the Redemption Counseling Center, who joined us as panel participants at our public forum about first responder mental health.” The Mental Health Matters for First Responders program was initiated in 2023 by a NAH first responder who observed that cumulative stress and repeated exposure to trauma were affecting both personal well-being and professional performance. NAH’s first responder teams serve more than 79,000 square miles across five states, responding to emergencies in some of the Southwest’s most rural and remote areas. Guardian Air Transport includes 72 flight medics and nurses based in Flagstaff, Cottonwood, Tuba City, Winslow and Show Low, providing rapid air response for high-acuity and remote emergencies. Guardian Medical Transport employs about 100 full-time paramedics and emergency medical technicians, operating a fleet of 20 ambulances from three stations in Flagstaff and one in Tusayan, near the Grand Canyon. Together, these first responders complete an average of 25,000 ground and air responses annually, serving both permanent residents and millions of annual visitors to Northern Arizona. Oltrogge says these professionals face extraordinary levels of stress and trauma, leaving them at higher risk for anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress and suicide. “First responders are trained to be strong for everyone else, but strength also means recogContinued on page 32

SEPTEMBER 2026 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews THE FLAGSTAFF REAL ESTATE SECTION

The Flagstaff Real Estate Section New Homes to Replace Historic Flagstaff Lodge O

By Peter Corbett, FBN

ne of Flagstaff’s oldest lodges is poised for redevelopment into single-family homes after 70 years of hosting visitors on a forested site off Lake Mary Road. The owners of the Arizona Mountain Inn & Cabins, Mary and Brian Bostwick, recently announced plans to close the inn in February. That will make way for developing Hidden Haven Estates with 49 home sites on the 13-acre property. Meanwhile, the Bostwicks have reached out to their many longtime guests to book one or more visits before the closure. “Come help us celebrate the final chapter of the Arizona Mountain Inn & Cabins and create one more memory with us,” the Bostwicks wrote in an email to their loyal patrons. They have a sentimental attachment to the inn after staying in Cabin No. 9 for their honeymoon. The Bostwicks’ wedding was on Valentine’s Day 1998 and they fell in love with the inn, Mary Bostwick said. In fact, the property was for sale and they bought it seven months later. The Bostwicks had no experience in hospitality. Both worked in technology for Micro Age and Brian had experience in construction. Mary said they believed they could figure it out and run a successful mountain lodge. The inn’s roots go back to 1948 when Ray Wanek bought the property and built his first cabin a year later. It was miles from downtown back when Flagstaff had about 7,500 residents. Wanek, a traveling salesman, married his wife, Pauline, in 1953. She didn’t like the isolat-

ed, wooded property so Ray built a second cabin to give the Waneks a neighbor. Through the years, they built 20 cabins and a bed and breakfast inn with five suites. The larger Cabin 16, built in 1969, was home to the Waneks and their four children. A large hogan-style dwelling was the last structure built in 1988. The Waneks operated Arizona Mountain Inn for more than 40 years. The Bostwicks have had it for about 28 years. Ray Wane died in September 2003 and Pauline in March 2025. The Bostwicks plan to sell the cabins, but buyers must move them off the site to make room for Hidden Haven Estates. The lights will go out on the Arizona Mountain Inn in late February. The final guests are part of a large wedding party. “It’s going to be bittersweet,” Mary Bostwick said of the inn’s final day. “It’s exciting on one hand. We’ve been doing it a long time.” The plan is to break ground Feb. 22, said Ian Braun, president and CEO of Civil Design & Engineering and Mogollon Engineering & Surveying. “Both firms have deep experience with development in Northern Arizona,” Braun said. “Both firms are working on different aspects of the design and entitlement process of Hidden Haven Estates, including a zoning change. Another development partner is CSMB Land Development Partners, which is also headed by Braun with his business partner Cole Shinaman. “CSMB works with landowners to get the most value out of their property,” Braun said. The lots at Hidden Haven Estates range in size from 5,100 to 14,432 square feet.

For Arizona Mountain Inn owners Brian and Mary Bostwick, Cabin 9 holds a special place in their hearts. It was where they honeymooned in February 1998. They bought the inn seven months later. Photos by Austin Corbett

It’s too early to list prices for the home sites, Mary Bostwick said. Hidden Haven Estates is surrounded on three sides by the Coconino National Forest. More than half the ponderosa pines on the site will be saved, as a requirement of the city’s Resource Protection Guidelines, Braun said. Access is from South Yaqui Drive. Two streets within Hidden Haven Estates end in cul-de-sacs. A Hidden Haven wait list has more than 100 people and several local home builders are interested in blocks of lots, Braun said. “It’s going to be a really cool, hidden, nestled-away community.”

The Arizona Mountain Inn sign beckons to travelers on Lake Mary Road in Flagstaff.

After site work, construction of homes is expected to begin by spring 2028. FBN

Flagstaff Business News // SEPTEMBER 2026

flagstaffbusinessnews.com THE FLAGSTAFF REAL ESTATE SECTION

Rare Multi-Million Dollar Generational Flagstaff Estate For Sale

ith architecture inspired by the historic Colton House, a unique Coyote Springs estate is on the market in Flagstaff, offering a unique mix of architectural pedigree, serenity and functional luxury. Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty’s Global Real Estate Advisor Valerie Core says the home is listed for $4.85 million The three-building compound, at 2912 N. Creekside Drive, totals 5,313 square feet. Positioned on nearly twoand-a-half acres, the generational home features four bedrooms, sixand-a-half baths, a wine cellar, a fourcar heated garage with a detached carriage house apartment above, and a dedicated wellness bungalow, designed to fit into the natural forest landscape. The architecture was inspired by the historic Colton House, which has been referred to as a “Southwest arts and crafts fusion,” said Core. The Colton House, which was rebuilt after a fire in 1928, remains a treasured property under the stewardship of the Museum of Northern Arizona today. Located minutes from downtown

Rooted in Arizona Territorial architecture and Southwestern design, this threebuilding multi-structure estate blends with the surrounding natural landscape on nearly two-and-a-half acres near the Museum of Northern Arizona. A detached wellness bungalow offers a private studio for yoga space and workout equipment, plus an endless indoor pool and steam shower bathroom. Courtesy photos

Flagstaff, the property feels worlds away, said Core, evoking a sense of peace and calm. “Luxurious touches are found throughout the interior of the main res-

idence, including beamed ceilings, detailed artisan rock work, and expansive forest views,” she said. “The primary suite features a fireplace, walkin closet, jacuzzi tub and steam shower.”

braces its natural surroundings. The grounds feature fireplaces, a fire pit, bridges and multiple bubbling water features that attract birds and wildlife, which are all intended to work together to create a living environment that feels timeless and private. The property borders a 28-acre wilderness area permanently protected by the Museum of Northern Arizona; by covenant, no fences, trails or improvements of any kind may be built there, ensuring the surrounding landscape remains untouched. The neighborhood also is covered by The home also offers a flexible Flagstaff’s Dark Skies and Firewise bonus room, three woodburning fireplaces, two gas fireplaces, tankless protections. The property has full city water, infloor heating and minisplit cooling sewer, trash and underground utilisystems. “The guest coach house is a private, ties, which helps to set it apart from most other acreage estates in Flagstaff beautifully designed space ideal for extendedstay guests, multigeneration- which rely on well water and septic tanks. al living or caregiver quarters,” said “For buyers who value quality, Core. “In addition, the wellness bundesign, city utilities and one of Flaggalow, which is just steps from the main residence, is the ideal minimal- staff’s most coveted locations, this estate stands in a class of its own,” ist spa retreat with its endless pool, said Core. FBN steam shower and workout space.” With deep covered decks and outdoor living spaces connected by For more information, visit www.russlyon. breezeways and patios, the estate em- com or call 480-287-5200.

Outcomes by HOPCo

Meet Dr. Amber Randall: Adult Hip & Knee Reconstruction in Northern Arizona at Northern Arizona Orthopaedics Dr. Amber Randall is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon with over 20 years of experience in adult joint reconstruction, delivering exceptional care through Northern Arizona Orthopaedics (NAO). She completed her fellowship at New England Baptist Hospital and earned her M.D. from Harvard Medical School. Dr. Randall is known for her mastery of minimally invasive and robotic-assisted techniques, treating everything from complex arthritis to sports-related joint injuries. She frequently performs anterior hip replacements and robotic knee replacements designed to help patients return to the activities they love, faster. “My life’s work is to help people reduce pain and regain mobility, using personalized treatment plans and the latest evidence-based techniques. I’ve seen my patients return to skiing, trail running, guiding river trips, and playing pickleball and golf. Being someone who loves to run trails, ski, and travel the world myself, I understand that you need to get back to what makes life worthwhile,” said Dr. Randall. For trusted, top-tier care in Northern Arizona, schedule an appointment with Dr. Amber Randall at Northern Arizona Orthopaedics.

Dr. Amber Randall at Northern Arizona Orthopaedics (NAO)

Northern Arizona Orthopaedics With locations in Flagstaff, Prescott Valley, & the White Mountains, NAO provides comprehensive orthopedic care with over 50 years of trusted experience. Learn more at northazortho.com or call us at 928.226.2900

SEPTEMBER 2026 // Flagstaff Business News

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THE FLAGSTAFF REAL ESTATE SECTION

Can More Housing Balance the Market? How Flagstaff’s residential expansion could stabilize commercial real estate

By Mary Parra, FBN

n a mountain town where land constraints, high living costs, and business turnover make for a notoriously difficult commercial climate, an unusual variable is entering the equation: a wave of new housing. With thousands of multi-family, student and residential units recently completed or currently in development, including Canyon del Rio, Timber Sky and Lake Mary Housing, Flagstaff is seeing a significant increase in rental housing inventory. Residential vacancy rates have risen to between 12% and 15%, giving renters more options and greater flexibility.

EASING THE LABOR BOTTLENECK

Historically, one of the biggest hurdles for Flagstaff business owners hasn’t been lack of consumer demand, but rather the cost of labor driven by the cost of living. With median household incomes around $48,000 and home prices remaining elevated, local employers regularly struggle to recruit and retain staff. When housing is scarce, businesses are forced to pay higher wages just to compete for talent, squeezed further by high commercial rents and rising

borrowing costs. “Cost of money went up and took value away from commercial real estate,” said Allen Ginsberg, with the Ginsberg Group @ RE/MAX FINE PROPERTIES in Flagstaff. “When commercial mortgages went from 3.5% or 4% up to 7% or 7.5%, asset values dropped. Higher cap rates mean lower property values, making it challenging for investors to find a good rate of return.” Despite those financial headwinds, economic leaders see the housing surge as essential infrastructure for local businesses. The big housing developments and new projects along John Wesley Powell are designed to catch up on long-standing shortages. “We have a strong workforce and are working to attract more talent,” said City of Flagstaff Community Investment Director David McIntire. “Now we will have more housing available for them.” By providing practical places for employees to live, the housing expansion removes a major constraint on local businesses trying to maintain consistent operating hours and stay open.

THE ‘ROOFTOPS FIRST’ RIPPLE EFFECT ON RETAIL

Economic development leaders are optimistic that available office space, including in downtown Flagstaff's Federal Building, along with new housing developments will help create a more affordable business environment and attract new talent. Courtesy photo

Traditional economic development follows a simple principle: retail follows rooftops. Flagstaff’s high retail turnover, where restaurants and storefronts open and close in frequent cycles, is often blamed on seasonal tourism swings. However, year-round residential density provides local businesses with something tourism cannot: a reliable, daily customer base. More residents living along major corridors means more everyday consumer spending kept within city limits, rather than lost to online shopping or

businesses in the Phoenix area.

WHERE THE MARKET STILL FACES FRICTION

While added housing provides crucial workforce support, local experts caution it isn’t a cure-all across every sector. Office Vacancies: Residential growth doesn’t eliminate the structural decline in office demand, which is largely restricted to small, 1,000-square-foot footprints for local owner-users rather than $2 million multi-tenant buildings.

Geographic Reality: Flagstaff remains land-locked by surrounding public lands, meaning commercial expansion will rely heavily on adaptive reuse and infill rather than sprawling new commercial parks. McIntire further explained the goal isn’t rapid expansion, but economic sustainability. “We want to keep dollars local and have our people employed,” he said. “When you build a strong enough housing and economic base, the right retail and services follow.” FBN

Fall Into Focus: How Radio Keeps Real Estate Top of Mind

By Mike Jensen

all in Northern Arizona has a way of getting people’s attention. The temperatures cool, the leaves begin to change, football returns, and communities settle back into their regular routines. It is also a season when homeowners start thinking about what comes next — whether that means buying, selling, refinancing, remodeling or preparing for a move before winter. For real estate professionals, fall is a

reminder of something important: the market may change with the seasons, but the need to stay visible never does. Real estate is built on familiarity and trust. Consumers may search for homes online, scroll through listings and compare prices on their phones, but when it comes time to choose an agent, lender, title company or home-service professional, they are far more likely to remember a name they already know. That is where radio continues to have an important role.

// Community involvement can make that connection even stronger. Sponsoring local football, weather, news, community events or seasonal features associates a real estate brand with the Northern Arizona lifestyle. Instead of simply telling listeners you are local, your marketing demonstrates it. //

Radio becomes part of a listener’s daily routine — during the morning commute, school drop-off, the drive to work, errands around town or a weekend trip through Northern Arizona. Hearing a local real estate professional consistently creates familiarity in a way that a single digital impression rarely can. And fall offers plenty to talk about beyond homes for sale. Real estate professionals can use radio to provide helpful seasonal information: preparing a home for colder weather, buying or selling before year-end, understanding current financing options, protecting mountain properties, getting a home ready for winter or explaining what is really happening in the local housing market. That type of messaging does more than advertise a business. It establishes expertise. Community involvement can make that connection even stronger. Sponsoring local football, weather, news, community events or seasonal features

associates a real estate brand with the Northern Arizona lifestyle. Instead of simply telling listeners you are local, your marketing demonstrates it. The strongest campaigns also resist the temptation to disappear when business slows. Real estate is rarely about reaching someone only on the exact day they decide to buy or sell. It is about building recognition beforehand. Think of marketing like preparing for fall and winter. You do the work before you need the results. A consistent radio presence plants the name. Repetition helps it grow. Local involvement builds trust. Then, when someone suddenly needs an agent, mortgage professional, title company or home-service provider, your business has a much better chance of being the first one they remember. Markets change. Seasons change. Interest rates change. But one principle remains constant: People tend to do business

with names they know and people they trust. This fall, the opportunity for Northern Arizona real estate professionals is not simply to advertise more. It is to stay present, stay useful and stay connected to the community. Because when the next buyer or seller is ready to make a move, you want your name to already feel like home. FBN Mike Jensen is the general manager 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.

Flagstaff Business News // SEPTEMBER 2026

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Getting to Know the Candidates

lagstaff Business News has asked each of the six Flagstaff City Council candidates to answer questions focused on governance, fiscal stewardship and economic vitality. These questions, developed through conversations with small business owners and the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce, explore the experience candidates bring to overseeing a more than $600 million municipal budget, their priorities for public spending and their approach to affordability, housing, business growth and long-term leadership. We hope these responses help readers better understand how each candidate thinks about the practical challenges of governing Flagstaff and the decisions that will shape the city's economic future and quality of life.

Austin Aslan

Nancy Baca

Patty Hansen

Khara House

Lori Matthews

Drew Stanley

Six Candidates, Three Seats Flagstaff City Council hopefuls address qualifications, budget priorities and affordability

By Bonnie Stevens, FBN

n the wake of Flagstaff’s primary election, six candidates are vying for three City Council seats in the Nov. 3 general election: Austin Aslan, Nancy Baca, Patty Hansen, Khara House, Lori Matthews and Drew Stanley. Aslan, House and Matthews are incumbents. In many ways, the six candidates are applying to voters for a full-time job – one that comes with a salary of $63,800, plus health insurance and pension contributions, and significant responsibility for the city’s finances, policies and long-term future. A city councilmember typically serves as legislator, community representative and steward of public resources. Flagstaff Business News has heard from small business owners and the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce about issues concerning small businesses and employers throughout the community. “We hear regularly that the cost of living in Flagstaff is driving some businesses away and is making it harder for many to be successful,” said Chamber President and CEO Julie Pastrick. “Businesses want fiscal responsibility at the City Council level. As a catalyst for business growth, candidate awareness of the real costs of their decision making is work the Chamber takes on daily in

hopes of convincing elected officials that a healthy business climate and a vibrant community are inseparable.” With those concerns in mind, FBN posed six questions to the candidates. Their answers will be shared in the September and October issues. This month, candidates address their qualifications for the job, city budget priorities and affordability for Flagstaff businesses and residents. Candidates were asked to limit each response to 150 words. Their answers appear in alphabetical order.

1. QUALIFICATIONS

Q: FBN What experience best prepares you to oversee a city budget of nearly $627 million and provide policy direction for an organization of more than 1,000 municipal employees through the city manager? A: Austin Aslan My strongest qualification is that I’ve spent eight years learning how Flagstaff actually works – from the dais, through our budget process and alongside city staff. I understand the Council’s role is to set policy and priorities while giving the city manager the direction and resources to execute them. But my experience goes beyond City Hall. I spent a decade as a community or-

ganizer, learning how to bring competing interests together, negotiate with institutions and turn community priorities into concrete action. I’m a 2024 Flinn-Brown Fellow. I have a master’s degree in conservation biology, an NSF Graduate Research Fellowship and years of experience managing complex projects and working with data. Most importantly, I’ve learned to think long-term. A $627 million budget isn’t just an accounting exercise. It is how we decide what Flagstaff will be capable of five, 10 and 20 years from now. A: Nancy Baca I was raised in Flagstaff, raised my children here and have spent my career working to strengthen communities through economic development and sound financial decision making. That combination of personal connection and professional experience best prepares me for this responsibility. I have worked with rural and Tribal communities across Northern Arizona, gaining firsthand experience balancing growth, budgets and the needs of communities. I am numbers and data oriented, and I believe good decisions begin with understanding the facts and financial realities. Overseeing a $627 million budget requires discipline, careful analysis and clear priorities. As a councilmember, I would provide thoughtful policy direction while respecting the city manager and city staff’s responsibilities and area expertise. I would ask the hard questions. Flagstaff is my

forever home and I have a personal stake in making sure it remains financially strong, livable and a place where future generations can thrive. A: Patty Hansen I have three decades of public service experience. I believe that experience has prepared me to understand the responsibility and complexity of managing public resources and leading an organization. As Coconino County recorder from 2013 through 2024 and as the county’s elections administrator, I managed a complex operation requiring careful budgeting, longterm planning, compliance with state and federal requirements, and accountability to the public. Election administration taught me the importance of making decisions based on facts, prioritizing essential services, managing limited resources and working collaboratively with employees, elected officials and community partners. As a city councilmember, I would bring that experience to set policy and provide direction to the city manager while recognizing the manager’s responsibility for daily operations. I understand that a $627 million budget represents taxpayers’ hard-earned dollars and I would ensure those resources are used responsibly, transparently and on the community’s highest priorities. A: Khara House My experience combines public service, private-sector management and work on complex state and federal projects. Before

serving on Council, my career was in multifamily housing, where I gained experience with budgets, operations, regulatory requirements, capital planning and the practical impacts financial decisions have on residents and organizations. In my current professional role, I help lead work conducted through multimillion-dollar county, state, Tribal, federal and intergovernmental contracts. This work requires careful attention to scope, accountability, performance, partnerships and responsible stewardship of public resources. I also know that overseeing a $627 million municipal budget requires more than pretending any one person has all the answers. Sound governance requires asking good questions, understanding tradeoffs, reviewing data carefully and leaning into the expertise of our city manager, finance professionals, department leaders, employees and community partners. I’ve worked intentionally to keep learning so I can make informed, responsible decisions on behalf of Flagstaff. A: Lori Matthews My more than 30 years as a commercial lender, followed by more than a decade providing CFO-level consulting to small and mid-sized businesses, give me direct knowledge and experience in analyzing complex budgets, cash flow, risk and organizational performance. I founded ANEW Living, a transitional housing program with an 85% success rate in ending homelessness through practical life-

SEPTEMBER 2026 // Flagstaff Business News

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skills and financial literacy training. I also previously served as interim executive director at Flagstaff Shelter Services, where I expanded services and secured grants. This combination of private-sector fiscal discipline and proven local leadership equips me to continue serving as a watchdog over the city’s budget and to help set clear policy direction working with city management. A: Drew Stanley I am currently the northern regional organizer for the Arizona Students Association, where I manage canvassers in collecting voter registrations. I have been involved in numerous student and community groups that have studied and acted on numerous areas of public policy, such as housing and public transportation. I have also lobbied on behalf of Arizona Students at the state legislature for higher education funding, getting an in-depth understanding of how the legislature distributes funds to localities and municipal governments. I believe that I am uniquely situated with my own connections at the state Capitol to be a valuable asset on City Council in advocating for much-needed reform and a greater measure of local control from the state government.

2. BUDGET PRIORITIES

Q: FBN Every budget reflects priorities. What is one area where you would invest more, one area where you would reduce spending or improve efficiency, and how would you approach funding Flagstaff’s public safety needs and clearly communicate those budget priorities to residents? A: Austin Aslan I will continue to invest more in infrastructure, particularly the investments that make Flagstaff more resilient and protect our ability to grow responsibly. That includes completing the Rio de Flag Flood Control Project and ensuring our fire and emergency-response systems are ready for a changing climate. I look for efficiencies in areas where the city can simplify processes, eliminate duplication and reduce the cost of delivering services, rather than simply cutting services people rely upon. Public safety deserves its own clear, honest conversation with taxpayers. I supported putting the public safety bond before voters because residents should have the opportunity to decide whether those investments are worth paying for. And I believe the budget itself should be transparent about our priorities. A budget is a moral document: it tells residents what we value, what we are willing to invest in and what we are willing to defer. A: Nancy Baca I understand how important reliable core services are to the people who live here. I would invest more in core infrastructure, as

they are basic services that residents and businesses depend on every day. I would also look for opportunities to improve efficiency by evaluating budget items and making sure taxpayer dollars are producing measurable results. Public safety would remain a fundamental priority. Police, fire and other essential services must have the resources necessary to protect our community, while recognizing that the city has to balance those needs against available revenue. I would clearly communicate what we are funding, why it matters, what it costs and what outcomes we expect. My approach would be to prioritize essential services, improve efficiency where possible and maintain the fiscal discipline necessary to protect Flagstaff’s future. A: Patty Hansen I would invest more in affordable housing and programs that help make Flagstaff a place where working people can afford to live. Housing affordability is one of the biggest challenges facing our community and it should be a priority in our budget. I would look for opportunities to reduce spending through greater efficiency, careful evaluation of existing programs and eliminating duplication, while protecting essential city services. I would also expect every department to regularly evaluate whether its programs are achieving the results residents expect. Public safety is an essential responsibility of the city. I would support funding the police and fire services needed to keep residents safe while ensuring we have accountability for how those dollars are spent. Residents deserve to understand how their tax dollars are being spent. I would communicate budget priorities clearly through regular town halls, accessible budget information and opportunities for meaningful public input. A: Khara House I would invest in innovative partnerships that expand housing resources, including stronger regional, state, federal, nonprofit and private-sector partnerships. For efficiency, I would focus on how we plan, maintain and deliver utilities and public infrastructure. Better coordination of capital projects, preventive maintenance, energy and water efficiencies, and careful consideration of long-term operating costs can help us protect services while recognizing that Flagstaff residents already face a high cost of living while recognizing that cutting one expense without understanding its downstream impacts could unintentionally lead to larger costs somewhere else. I also believe we should broaden how we talk about public safety. Police, fire, emergency response, crisis and behavioral health teams and other responders are all part of keeping our neighbors safe. Funding decisions should reflect actual service needs, prevention, staffing and outcomes, with clear

public reporting about what we are funding, why and what impact these decisions have on residents. A: Lori Matthews Core services and public safety remain my top budget priorities. A recent needs analysis of the Flagstaff Fire Department, Police Department, Airport Rescue and Firefighting and Emergency Management Services identified a $500 million shortfall for current and projected needs far beyond what our existing budget can address. To fund immediate needs, a $40 million bond and half-a-cent sales tax question will appear on the November ballot. Providing our first responders with the tools they need to keep Flagstaff safe is critical. Regardless of the outcome, the city must carefully review current allocations and reallocate resources where appropriate. Drawing on my financial background, I will work with city management to identify effective cost-cutting measures that direct more dollars to essential services, while clearly communicating priorities through various outreach channels so residents know exactly where their money goes and why. A: Drew Stanley I don’t know if it is necessarily a matter of spending more or less on certain budget priorities but rather how funds are spent. The Flagstaff Housing Bond, for example, which is drawn upon for affordable housing projects in the city has not spent much in the past six years it has been in use. I believe this is at least partially due to the fact that when private developers approach the city to carry out a project using the affordable housing bond, they are often met with a hail of regulations and red tape to acquire that funding, and as a result either lose interest in the project or suffer from lengthy and extensive cost overruns and delays. Even if a project is completed with affordable housing bond money, the result is often a small percentage of units created ultimately being “affordable.” This red tape must be reduced.

3. AFFORDABILITY

Q: FBN How would you balance funding city services while keeping Flagstaff affordable for residents, employers and small businesses? A: Austin Aslan Affordability means more than keeping the tax rate low. It means asking what it actually costs to live, work and operate a business in Flagstaff. We should continue pursuing housing that working people can afford, including workforce housing on city-owned land, appropriate density and reforms that reduce unnecessary construction costs. Standardizing development fees and removing parking minimums are examples. At the same time, we need to be disciplined about the costs

we impose on employers and small businesses through permitting, fees and regulations. Government should make it easier – not harder – for people to start and operate a business here. But affordability also requires maintaining the infrastructure and services that make Flagstaff economically viable. Cutting investments in multimodal, water, public safety or flood control may produce shortterm savings while creating much larger costs later. A: Nancy Baca Keeping this community affordable and livable is personal to me. Many families, seniors and young people are struggling with housing, transportation, childcare and basic necessities. Survey after survey have shown that the cost of living is the number one concern of residents. The city cannot solve every affordability challenge, but we can make responsible decisions about the costs we control. Maintaining a local workforce is vital and that will only get more difficult. I would also support an environment where employers and small businesses can succeed and create opportunities for local workers. It is through strong leadership and budgeting that we can maintain essential services without placing unnecessary financial burdens on residents, employers or small businesses. A: Patty Hansen Keeping Flagstaff affordable means recognizing the financial pressures residents, employers and small businesses face and being thoughtful about how city decisions affect them. The city cannot solve the affordability crisis alone, but we should not make it harder for people to live and do business here. I would prioritize services and look for efficiencies before increasing taxes or fees. I would carefully evaluate whether fees, regulations or capital projects are necessary and affordable, particularly for small businesses and residents. I would also prioritize policies that can directly improve affordability, especially increasing the supply of attainable housing and supporting locally owned businesses. When new revenue is necessary, I would consider who will bear the cost and its impact on those least able to afford it. Balancing the budget should not simply mean balancing the numbers – it should mean balancing the needs of our community with what residents and businesses can afford. A: Khara House I will continue to focus on maintaining core services while looking for opportunities to improve efficiency, leverage outside funding and build partnerships that stretch local dollars further. Affordability has to be part of every municipal budget conversation because residents, employers and small businesses all feel the cumulative impact of rising housing, utility, transportation and operating costs. That means evaluating fees, utility

rates and other revenue decisions not only individually, but also in terms of how they add up for households and businesses. At the same time, cutting essential services can create costs of their own through deferred maintenance, reduced reliability or greater pressure on emergency systems. My goal is to focus on responsible, long-term budgeting that protects the services people depend on while recognizing that Flagstaff’s high cost of living is itself a significant community and economic challenge. A: Lori Matthews I will continue to fight for a disciplined budget so that tax and fee increases are never the automatic answer to every funding need. I will remain a constant voice for fiscal restraint whenever rate and tax increases are proposed. I have advocated streamlining permitting and reducing regulatory friction so employers and small businesses can grow without excessive cost. I will keep pushing for housing tools such as ADUs [accessory dwelling units], workforce housing incentives and permit reforms that expand supply without large new city spending and help lower housing costs through the basic forces of supply and demand. Every expenditure must be weighed against its impact on the cost of living for residents and businesses. That is the same discipline I applied when I successfully fought against a proposed 166% water and sewer rate increase down to 49.5%, a roughly 70% cut that delivered real savings for households and business budgets. A: Drew Stanley I think city services and affordability go hand in hand. Timely and effective maintenance of utilities, city infrastructure and the like, all contribute to ensuring that services and public infrastructure are usable by the public. Good roads contribute to fewer accidents and less vehicle maintenance, timely constituent responses and city inspections help prevent greater and costlier issues down the road. And a clear, simple permitting process helps businesses to grow and thrive. These are of course the bare minimums of any government, and while I believe that government is capable of a lot more, it cannot pursue anything without these basic needs being met. Next month in FBN, the discussion will continue regarding economic vitality, housing, growth and land use, and leadership. FBN

Flagstaff Business News // SEPTEMBER 2026

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Ride Smart: Tips for Staying Injury-Free on the Trails

By Corey Carver, PAC

here’s something special about riding a bicycle in Northern Arizona. Whether you’re navigating a mountain-bike trail or putting miles in on gravel, every ride offers a new challenge. As someone who loves riding, I have two bikes (and technically three if you count the mountain bike I haven’t sold yet). Mountain biking has taken me through at least 12 states and I’ve ridden gravel in two more. Every trail is different, with its own terrain, obstacles and challenges. One thing remains constant, however: the risk of injury. Most injuries happen in much less dramatic ways than we imagine. A simple fall can be enough to send a rider to the ground. On harder terrain, there are plenty of opportunities for things to go wrong; from going over the handlebars to having the front wheel wash out or accidentally hitting the dropper lever instead of the brake. I learned this lesson firsthand. During one mountain-bike ride, I went over the handlebars and landed hard enough to crush my helmet. I spent the night in the hospital, but fortunately, imaging of my head and neck was negative. I consider myself fortunate, and I believe the steps I took to reduce my

risk of injury helped keep the outcome from being much worse. No strategy can completely eliminate the possibility of injury, but there are several things to make rides safer.

you’ve explored it, ride it again and get the terrain into your memory before picking up the pace. And when you’re ready to send it, ride within your means.

1. RIDE OFTEN AND STAY WITHIN YOUR SKILL LEVEL

3. BUILD AND MAINTAIN YOUR STRENGTH

The best way to become comfortable on your bike is to ride regularly. Familiarity with your bike and the terrain can make a significant difference in how confidently you handle different situations. As your skills improve, gradually challenge yourself with more difficult terrain. There’s no need to jump from a familiar trail to something dramatically beyond your ability. Build confidence and experience at your own pace. I learned this one the hard way after attempting a drop I wasn’t familiar with. Don’t be like me.

2. PRE-RIDE. RE-RIDE. FREE-RIDE

When you encounter an unfamiliar trail or one above your current skill level, slow down and understand what you’re getting into. Look at the steepness, terrain and features. Pay attention to mandatory gaps, ride-arounds, exposure, jumps, landings and trail crossings. Once

Resistance training isn’t just about getting stronger. Maintaining strength can help prepare your body for the physical demands of cycling and other activities. Strength training doesn’t eliminate your risk of injury, but it can help you stay prepared for the demands of your sport. If you’re starting a new exercise or weightlifting program, talk with your primary care provider or physical therapist and consider working with a qualified professional to make sure your routine is appropriate for you.

4. HYDRATE AND FUEL YOUR RIDE

Preparation starts before you get on the bike. Drink plenty of water and hydrating fluids before and throughout your ride. Just as importantly, fuel your body. Eat a good meal before riding and bring snacks, particularly for longer or more demanding rides. As hydration and energy levels decline, so can judgment and deci-

Flagstaff Bone & Joint Physician Assistant Corey Carver promotes preparation, practice and protection when mountain biking. Courtesy photo

sion-making. Staying fueled and hydrated can help you stay focused when the trail gets challenging. These steps aren’t foolproof, and sometimes injuries happen despite our best efforts. But a little preparation can go a long way toward making a great day on the bike a safer one. My wife has a simple reminder for me before I head out on the mountain bike: “Make wise choices.” My reminder to myself is even simpler: You don’t need to be fast. You just need to be good. At Flagstaff Bone & Joint, we know that getting injured

can be frustrating, especially when it keeps you from doing the things you love. Ride smart, know your limits and, most importantly, enjoy the trail. If an injury does happen, Flagstaff Bone & Joint is here to help you get back to doing what you love. Happy and safe riding! FBN Corey Carver, PA-C, is an experienced physician assistant. Flagstaff Bone & Joint offers same-day, walk-in appointments, helping to make it easier for patients to get evaluated when an orthopedic injury happens.

SEPTEMBER 2026 // Flagstaff Business News

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A longtime Camino pilgrim, Stacey Wittig draws on more than two decades of experience with Spain’s Camino de Santiago to guide readers to churches, chapels, monasteries and sacred sites. Courtesy photos

FBN Writer Stacey Wittig Earns Amazon Top New Release Recognition for Camino Book

reflections, prayer prompts ward-winning travel and an “If You Only Have a writer and FBN conMinute” feature for pilgrims tributor Stacey Wittig who have limited time at a earned Amazon Top New stop. Release status for her April For Wittig, the book also 2026 book, “A Spiritual Guide represents the intersection to the Camino Francés: Sacred of two longtime pursuits: Places Christian Pilgrims travel and publishing. Don’t Want to Miss,” which Through UNSTOPPABLE highlights overlooked sacred Stacey Travel, she has deChristian sites along the veloped an audience around historic 500-mile Spanish walking adventures, pilgrimpilgrimage route. The recogniage, culture and meaningful tion marks another milestone travel while contributing for Wittig, who has built a stories to print and digital career around travel writpublications. ing, publishing and sharing She is a member of the Inexperiences from destinations ternational Food, Wine & around the world. A longtime Travel Writers Association Camino pilgrim, she drew Flagstaff-area designer Mike (IFWTWA) and American on more than two decades Russell designed the cover of Pilgrims on the Camino, an of experience with Spain’s organization that supports Camino de Santiago to create Stacey Wittig’s new book, A Spiritual Guide to the Camino pilgrims and the Camino a guide that goes beyond Francés: Sacred Places Christian community in the United the practicalities of where to Pilgrims Don’t Want to Miss. States. sleep, eat or walk. Wittig said the growing Instead, the book helps popularity of the Camino has brought travelers pilgrims discover the spiritual significance to Spain for many reasons, from adventure of churches, chapels, monasteries and sacred and culture to personal reflection. Her new sites along the Camino Francés – places that book seeks to reconnect modern walkers with travelers can easily walk past without realizing the Christian pilgrimage tradition that gave their history or importance. birth to the route. “You can walk right past a small chapel “The Camino is an extraordinary walking or ancient sacred site without knowing why experience, but it has been a pilgrimage for pilgrims have stopped there for centuries,” more than a thousand years,” Wittig said. Wittig said. “I wanted to give today’s pilgrims “Understanding the sacred places along the the background they need to slow down, step way adds another dimension to what pilgrims inside and experience these places in a more are seeing and experiencing.” meaningful way.” “A Spiritual Guide to the Camino Francés: The guide follows the Camino geographicalSacred Places Christian Pilgrims Don’t Want ly toward Santiago de Compostela, making it to Miss” is available in paperback through useful both for travelers planning a pilgrimage Amazon. FBN and those carrying it along the trail. Entries explore the spiritual and historical significance of individual sites and include scripture,

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Flagstaff Business News // SEPTEMBER 2026

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The Invisible Aftermath: How COVID Changed Young Adult Mental Health and Addiction

By Roy DuPrez

hile the world has moved beyond the crisis of COVID-19, many young adults are still experiencing the emotional and psychological aftermath of the pandemic. For families and treatment providers, one of the most significant shifts we have witnessed is the increased intersection between mental health struggles, isolation and substance use.

The pandemic disrupted some of the most formative years of life for teenagers and young adults. School closures, canceled activities, reduced social interaction and uncertainty about the future created an environment where many young people lost access to the very things that help build resilience: community, structure and connection. At Back2Basics, our clinical team frequently sees young adults who are not only struggling with substance

use but also anxiety, depression, loneliness and difficulty managing everyday stress. Our primary therapist, Kaitlyn Kemppainen, LMSW, explains: “Many patients are trying to understand a world that looks very different from the one they grew up in. For many young adults, substances became a way to manage isolation, uncertainty, and overwhelming emotions rather than a recreational choice alone.”

// The pandemic disrupted some of the most formative years of life for teenagers and young adults. School closures, canceled activities, reduced social interaction and uncertainty about the future created an environment where many young people lost access to the very things that help build resilience: community, structure and connection. //

One of the most common misconceptions families have is believing that addiction is simply a matter of poor decisions or a lack of motivation. In reality, many young adults are deeply aware of the consequences of their behavior but do not know how to communicate what they are experiencing. As one Back2Basics client shared: “My family didn’t understand my struggles because I wasn’t able to articulate them. I wasn’t able to articulate my struggles to myself.” Another client reflected on the shame that often accompanies addiction: “I wish my family understood that while I didn’t always behave this way, I felt terrible about myself and my behavior during periods of sobriety.” This highlights an important lesson for parents: behavior is often a symptom of a deeper struggle. Anger, withdrawal, dishonesty and isolation can sometimes be signs of emotional pain that a young person does not know how to express. The path forward begins with connection. Creating space for open conversations, listening without

immediate judgment and seeking professional support early can dramatically change the course of a young person’s life. Recovery is not simply about removing substances; it is about rebuilding confidence, purpose, relationships and the ability to cope with life’s challenges in a healthy way. At Back2Basics, we have seen that when young adults reconnect with themselves, their peers and their communities, healing becomes possible. The lasting effects of COVID may continue to impact this generation, but with compassion, understanding and the right support, recovery remains within reach. FBN Roy DuPrez, M.Ed., is the CEO and founder of Back2Basics Outdoor Adventure Recovery in Flagstaff. He received his B.S. and M.Ed. from Northern Arizona University. Back2Basics helps men ages 18–35 recover from addiction through a unique combination of structured residential treatment and outdoor adventure therapy. For more information, visit www.back2basicsrecovery.com, call 928-814-2220, or email rduprez@b2badventures.com.

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SEPTEMBER 2026 // Flagstaff Business News

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Exploring Common Hearing Aid Questions

Jeff Lane, Au.D.

hile millions of people are affected by hearing loss, it remains a disability that does not receive much focus. The general public receives very little education on the effects of hearing loss or how to address it. They must seek out answers on their own. This is reflected in many of the common questions patients ask about hearing loss and hearing aids. A prior article answered the most common ones. Here are a few more frequent inquiries.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I WEAR MY HEARING AIDS?

As a rule of thumb, it is recommended to wear the hearing aids as much as possible. Especially during the initial adjustment phase, consistent use helps your brain to adapt more quickly. That

is, it will take less time for the signal to sound more natural. When hearing aids are worn sporadically, your brain is excited by the “new” sounds it is noticing every time you use them. Studies also show that wearing hearing aids helps to maintain good memory function. Of course, there are times when it is recommended that aids not be worn; for example, when sleeping. If you happen to fall asleep while wearing hearing aids, it will not damage the devices or cause the wearer any harm, aside from possible discomfort. In fact, some patients who live alone like to keep one on to feel safer at night. But most people remove them at night. Rechargeable hearing aids require removal, as they need to be charged nightly. It is also advisable to not wear hearing aids when swimming or bathing as this can damage the devices. (If you

have waterproof hearing aids, this is not a concern.) They should also be removed when around loud sounds like machinery or firearms. Hearing aids are able to differentiate between soft, average and loud sounds and process them differently. However, they do not protect the ears from dangerously loud sounds. Thus, hearing protection should still be worn in such situations. Overall, you will figure out what works best based on your lifestyle.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I LOSE MY HEARING AIDS?

First, it should be noted that losing a hearing aid is a fairly rare occurrence. When fit properly, they stay in the ear very securely. But life happens. If a hearing aid does get lost, retrace all your steps and look in every possible crevice. Hearing aids are relatively small and good at hiding. Also check

// As a rule of thumb, it is recommended to wear the hearing aids as much as possible. Especially during the initial adjustment phase, consistent use helps your brain to adapt more quickly. That is, it will take less time for the signal to sound more natural.When hearing aids are worn sporadically, your brain is excited by the “new” sounds it is noticing every time you use them. //

places that seem less likely, such as the clothes hamper. Hearing aids can get pulled off when removing shirts or sweaters. Take a day or two of searching to be entirely certain. Once you have confirmed it is lost to the abyss, call your audiologist. All hearing aids come with a warranty, usually three years. Part of the warranty covers repairs. The other portion covers loss. Within the lifespan off the warranty, the manufacturer will replace each hearing aid one time for a small fee. The fee will vary from office to office, but is typically pretty nominal compared to the cost of a new hearing aid. You must contact the audiologist, as manufacturers don’t allow the patients to order replacements themselves. If the same hearing aid is lost a second time, you would then be responsible for the cost of a new aid. Note, some manufacturers do offer the ability to track missing hearing aids, like locating a lost cellphone. The manufacturer’s app must be downloaded and paired to the aids for this feature to work. You can press “Find My Hearing Aids,” and the app will provide you with their general location. Oticon is one manufacturer that allows for tracking. Phonak does not. The audiologist will

be able to let you know whether this feature comes with your specific model. But, again, it always requires the app to work.

DO I NEED TO CLEAN MY HEARING AIDS? Fortunately, modern hearing aids are very durable and require only simple maintenance. If you have a receiverin-the-canal or in-the-ear aid, there is a filter on the end of the wire called a wax trap. It should be changed once a month to ensure that the signal is not being block be earwax. A tissue, dry cloth or brush can be used to remove debris from other portions of the aid. If your aid has a tube, the tube should be replaced every six months as a hard tube can distort sound. Always feel free to contact your audiologist with any questions which may arise. 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 // SEPTEMBER 2026

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Hormone Optimization: ‘Normal’ is Not Optimal

By Christina Kovalik NMD, Lac

ormones are constantly changing as we go through the journey of our life, and imbalances can occur at any age and stage of life in both men and women. Imbalances are often triggered by stressful events (environmental, dietary, emotional or physical). Life changes like the death of a family member or friend, marriage, break up, birth of a child, surgery, accidents, loss of a job, moving or effects from COVID-19 can trigger increased stress hormones, which affects other endocrine glands and body systems. Hormones are messengers of the endocrine system, which are triggered by a feedback system from the hypothalamus and pituitary parts of the brain. Endocrine glands release hormones. Hormones are derived in the liver and endocrine glands from cholesterol, proteins, amino acids and fatty acids. They often depend on one another to create the balance of hormones in the body. For example, cortisol is released by the adrenal glands in times of stress, which in turn speeds up the heart rate, dilates the pupils and pulls blood from the digestive organs to fuel the muscles needed to help us run. Normally we do not use this “fight or flight” system on a daily basis unless we are running away from a tiger or jumping out of a plane. But persistent stress results in adrenal exhaustion, leading to fatigue and lower immunity. This can affect how well the male or female hormones work and can make your thyroid sluggish, affecting your metabolism. The adrenals play a major role in hormone balance. Imagine them as the air-traffic controller of source energy to all endocrine glands. Testing your hormone levels is key for properly addressing and treating hormone imbalance and improving overall health.

NORMAL VS. OPTIMAL HORMONES

Patients experiencing symptoms of hormone imbalance may feel like at times they are going out of their mind. They don’t know the cause of their issues and seek help from their current doctor. Some practitioners are not well-versed in hormone optimization so they don’t know how to help them. It may not be their fault, as they may not have been taught this in traditional medical school. Patients may get bloodwork taken and all the results come back “normal.” Their doctor tells them that everything is fine and sends them on their way. That is fine and dandy. But the patient leaves feeling not heard, fatigued, has low libido, low mood, increased belly fat, mind fog and is not sleeping well. The next step is for the doctor to give the patient an antidepressant or other

medication and send them on their way. The patient chalks it up as, “Well, this must be aging or I must be crazy.” Why does this happen so frequently? Many physicians do not understand hormone optimization and therefore often give the patient their own opinion regarding hormones. Doctors may also give the patient false information because they don’t know any better or were taught the old ways in medical school. It may also be based off the results of the old WHI 2002 study that was deeply flawed and blanketed all hormones as bad when it was the synthetic versions of the combined progestin (not progesterone) and synthetic estrogen that caused harm with an increased risk of stroke, blood clots, cardiovascular events and cancer. In 2025, this study was recanted as it was deemed a flawed study. Many women suffered as a result of not having the correct hormone replacement and often walked away feeling more confused about their overall health. With any luck, the patient gets frustrated and seeks the insight of a hormone specialist. Patients who have been through this experience, feel such relief that they are not crazy and what they are experiencing is, in fact, hormone related and can be treated. Their hormones can be brought to optimal ranges. What I mean by optimal ranges is this: hormone levels in blood or saliva testing that are at the higher end of normal or even outside the normal range. Normal results are not optimal results. Blood hormone levels naturally decline as we age. Most people feel that they have to settle and accept that as part of aging. The truth is that this natural decline results in increased risk for cardiovascular disease and changes, insulin resistance/diabetes, increased risk of osteoporosis, skin changes (wrinkles, sagging skin, vaginal dryness, etc.), cognitive decline, increased visceral fat (belly fat) and increased cancer risk. When hormones are optimized by using the correct form of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and management in patients, who may or may not have symptoms of hormone imbalance, they often feel better. They feel more like their old selves, have more zest for life, improved energy, better sleep, better libidos and better mood. Optimal hormone balance saves lives, decreases disease progression and saves relationships. FBN Dr. Christina Kovalik NMD, LAc, The Vitality Doctor, is a naturopathic physician and acupuncturist specializing in hormone optimization, optimal health and vitality. She is a new Flagstaff resident, practicing since 2004, and opened her second location in Doney Park in 2020. For more information, visit thevitalitydoctor.com or call 928-863-6086.

SEPTEMBER 2026 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

Bright from the Start: CCC’s Bond Projects and the Next Chapter for Northern Arizona

By Eric Heiser

his fall, Coconino Community College begins celebrating 35 years of serving students, families, employers and communities across Coconino County. Our anniversary theme, Bright from the Start, reflects that history honestly. From its earliest days, this college was built on the belief that access to education changes lives and that a community willing to invest in its people is a community that will thrive. For 35 years, that belief has guided every decision we have made.

As we mark that anniversary, we are also approaching another significant moment: the first anniversary of Coconino County voters approving CCC’s bond initiative in November 2025. The two milestones are not coincidental. For 35 years, CCC has grown and changed in direct response to what our communities need. The bond is that same commitment carried forward, a declaration that the next chapter of this college belongs to the students, workers and families who call Northern Arizona home. Since the vote, a tremendous

and Page, ensuring that the benefits of the bond reach communities throughout Coconino County. The new Allied Health building is currently the furthest along in the design process. The project has completed schematic design and is now moving into the next phase of development, during which we will continue refining the classrooms, laboratories, technology and specialized learning environments within the building. Construction is expected to begin in late winter or early spring 2027. This facility will bring together CCC’s nursing, paramedic, emergency medical technician and fire science programs while creating space for three new health care programs: radiologic technology, surgical technology and respiratory therapy. The respiratory therapy program will mark an important milestone in CCC’s 35-year history as the college’s first baccalaureate degree. At the heart of the building will be a state-of-the-art simulated hospital, the first of its kind in Northern Arizona. Students from multiple health care disciplines will train together in

amount of work has taken place to turn the community’s investment into facilities and programs built for the future. Although construction has not yet begun, the past several months have been anything but quiet. Our architects, construction partners, faculty, staff and community stakeholders have been working through the detailed design process for two major Flagstaff projects: a new Allied Health building at CCC’s Lone Tree campus and the demolition and replacement of our Fourth Street campus. We have also been moving forward with projects in Williams

// The new Allied Health building is currently the furthest along in the design process. The project has completed schematic design and is now moving into the next phase of development, during which we will continue refining the classrooms, laboratories, technology and specialized learning environments within the building. Construction is expected to begin in late winter or early spring 2027. //

realistic clinical settings, practicing complex scenarios, building teamwork and communication skills, and developing confidence with the same types of equipment and technology they will encounter on the job. This kind of immersive, collaborative training prepares students not just for careers, but for the real demands of caring for people in our communities. The importance of this facility extends well beyond the campus. Northern Arizona faces persistent shortages across the health care workforce and those shortages have direct consequences for residents throughout the region. Every additional nurse, respiratory therapist, paramedic, EMT, surgical technologist or radiologic technologist educated locally is another skilled professional available to serve patients and families here at home. By expanding both the number and types of health care professionals CCC can train, this building will help strengthen the workforce that local hospitals, clinics and emergency response agencies depend on every day. The Fourth Street campus project Continued on page 31

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FBN Celebrates 40 Over 40 ESS NEW S

FLAGSTAF

F BUSIN ESS NEWS

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FF BUSIN

n a region defined by innovation, discovery, a deep respect for place and an unwavering commitment to people and the environment, Flagstaff Business News celebrates Northern Arizona businesses that possess something increasingly rare: staying power. The 40 Over 40 series honors locally rooted enterprises that have operated for more than four decades, navigating economic cycles, shifting markets and generational change while continuing to serve their communities with consistency and care, and contributing to the quality of life that defines Northern Arizona. From businesses that foster connection to those that build the spaces where locals and visitors live, work and play, this yearlong series explores the values, resilience and leadership that fuel long-term success across the region.

A Tale of Two Breweries One family, two breweries and a historic lumberyard

FLAGSTAF

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Flagstaff’s lumberyard was built in 1890, at San Francisco Street and Phoenix Avenue. The historic J.D. Halstead Lumber Company building, a relic of days gone by, now houses the Lumberyard Brewing Company. THE FOUNDING STORY Evan and Winnie Hanseth acquired the rights to the historic building and entered into an agreement with the city to restore the property before opening the Lumberyard in May 2010. However, before that, the couple open Beaver Street Brewery in 1994 after Winnie’s parents, Dick and Jean Wilson, read an article about up-and-coming brewpubs. With their encouragement, Evan and Winnie sold their California home, moved to Flagstaff and created

the brewery, but they also dreamed of distributing craft beer across Arizona. The Lumberyard, with its high ceilings and large space, made that dream come true. TOP ACHIEVEMENTS Creating Flagstaff’s first brewery, starting the craft beer scene and creating award-winning beer were big achievements. Rehabilitating the Lumberyard building was another. “It is exciting to bring a community gathering place back to the building, just as it was back in the 1890s,” said daughter Kelly Hanseth. CORE VALUES “One of our biggest values is empowering our employees. We strive to give them opportunities to grow.” Other core values include engaging with the community and striving to improve products. SHIFTS IMPACTING THE BUSINESS There have been menu changes at both pubs. “At Lumberyard, our original

menu did not have a burger, but it is now our largest selling item,” said Kelly. Beer tastes have changed as well. Railhead Red was their top-selling beer. Then, IPAs had a big push. Recently, lighter beers have made a comeback. “Our top seller at Beaver Street is Lager Del Sol, a Mexican style lager. At Lumberyard, our Backcountry Blonde is the strongest seller.” GREATEST CHALLENGES The pandemic was a great challenge. “Having to shutter our doors and change our business models overnight was a unique experience. Reopening was such a challenge, trying to gain the public trust in what we were doing and eventually get back to our “new normal” of business.” LOOKING AHEAD Daughters Kelly and Korie plan to continue their parents’ legacy, bringing beer and food to Flagstaff and growing their brand throughout Arizona.

THE REASON FOR LONG-TERM SUCCESS “The number one reason has always been that we have been involved in our businesses,” Kelly said. “Having our employees work alongside ownership every day goes a long way to bringing the group together as a team.” FBN

Lumberyard Brewing Company 5 S. San Francisco St. Flagstaff, AZ 86001 928-779-2739 lumberyardbrewingcompany.com

financial foundation while pursuing creative ways to rebuild attendance. These efforts include subsidized school visits, community-focused promotions and meaningful experiences grounded in the exhibitions and programs.” LOOKING AHEAD Kershaw expects MNA “to remain a trusted gateway to understanding the Colorado Plateau, while remaining operationally and financially resilient. “If we do that successfully, the museum will enter its second century as both a steward of an irreplaceable regional legacy and a vibrant place where new knowledge,

creativity, and connections continue to develop.” THE REASON FOR LONG-TERM SUCCESS Kershaw says MNA has succeeded for nearly a century because of the sustained commitment of people who believe the Colorado Plateau is worth understanding, preserving and sharing. FBN

Beaver Street Brewery 11 S. Beaver St. Flagstaff, AZ 86001 928-779-0079 beaverstreetbrewery.com

Where Cultures, Creativity and Knowledge Flourish MNA marks nearly a century of preserving the Colorado Plateau’s natural and cultural heritage As one of the final territories to join the U.S., Arizona enticed educators, scientists, artists and others to explore its wild regions and beckoning cultures. But not all visitors had good intentions. THE FOUNDING STORY Saddened by the loss of pottery and other artifacts being removed from the Colorado Plateau, a group of citizens formed to protect and preserve the natural and cultural heritage of the region. They opened the Museum of Northern Arizona on Sept. 6, 1928. MNA was shaped by founders Harold and Mary-Russell Ferrell Colton. Harold

served as director, while Mary-Russell developed art and ethnology programs, bringing wider recognition to Indigenous artists. MNA’s second director, Edward B. “Ned” Danson, expanded the museum’s research, collections, facilities and partnerships, while increasing financial support. “The Museum of Northern Arizona tells the story of one remarkable place through many perspectives,” said CEO and Executive Director Mary Kershaw. “Science, art and culture are not separate here – they come together to help people understand the connections between people, place and time. Our exhibitions invite people not simply to look at the Colorado Plateau, but to think about their own connections and responsibilities to it.” TOP ACHIEVEMENTS Kershaw says MNA’s top achievements

are building and preserving an “extraordinary” record of the Colorado Plateau; advancing knowledge and protection of the region; and creating enduring connections between artists, communities and the public. SHIFTS IMPACTING THE ORGANIZATION “In its early decades, MNA placed particular emphasis on regional field research, collecting, scholarly publications and documentation of natural and cultural history. As the museum and the communities it serves have evolved, its work has become increasingly publicfacing and collaborative.” GREATEST CHALLENGES MNA faces the same shift in tourism that impacts other nonprofits. “Reduced attendance affects revenue, while many essential expenses continue regardless of visitor numbers. MNA has built a stable

Museum of Northern Arizona 3101 N. Fort Valley Rd. Flagstaff, AZ 86001 https://musnaz.org 928-774-5213

SEPTEMBER 2026 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

When Does an Orthopedic Injury Need Same-Day Care?

By Annebeth Ahrenholz

eptember brings a seasonal rise in orthopedic injuries across Flagstaff. As temperatures cool, trail traffic increases with fall color season, mountain bikers and trail runners push higher mileage on technical terrain, and high school and collegiate athletes shift from conditioning into full-contact competition. The result is a predictable uptick in sprains, fractures and strains, and many people aren’t sure where to turn for care. One of the most common questions after an injury is where to go:

the emergency room, a family doctor, urgent care, or an orthopedic specialist. Knowing the difference can save time, money and unnecessary pain.

alists trained to stabilize a wide range of emergencies; they are not typically the ones providing ongoing orthopedic treatment.

WHY THE EMERGENCY ROOM ISN’T ALWAYS THE RIGHT FIT

WHY A PRIMARY CARE APPOINTMENT CAN BE TOO SLOW

Emergency rooms are built and staffed for life-threatening conditions: chest pain, severe trauma, uncontrolled bleeding. For an injury like a sprained ankle, a suspected wrist fracture or shoulder pain after a fall, an ER visit often means a long wait, a higher bill and a referral to a specialist for follow-up care to resolve the injury. ER physicians are gener-

// Common injuries suited to this kind of care include foot and ankle sprains or fractures, hand and wrist injuries, shoulder dislocations or acute pain, knee injuries such as ligament sprains or meniscus tears and new back or neck pain following a fall or impact. //

A family doctor is a valuable resource for many health concerns, but most primary care offices don’t have onsite imaging equipment or same-day availability for an acute injury. That can often lead to long wait times for an appointment and additional time waiting for referrals and orthopedic appointment availability. For an injury that’s swelling, limiting movement or causing significant pain, that delay can allow a minor issue to worsen or a fracture to heal improperly.

Evaluation by a provider trained specifically in musculoskeletal injuries A treatment plan established in the same visit, rather than after a referral chain Lower cost and shorter wait times than an emergency department visit Common injuries suited to this kind of care include foot and ankle sprains or fractures, hand and wrist injuries, shoulder dislocations or acute pain, knee injuries such as ligament sprains or meniscus tears and new back or neck pain following a fall or impact.

A FEW WARNING SIGNS WORTH KNOWING

Not every ache needs same-day evaluation, but certain signs suggest it’s time to be seen rather than wait WHEN SAME-DAY ORTHOPEDIC it out: Inability to bear weight or use the CARE IS THE BETTER OPTION injured limb normally Injuries involving bones, joints, Visible deformity or a joint that ligaments and tendons benefit from looks out of place a specialist’s eye from the start. Same-day orthopedic care is designed Swelling or bruising that worsens rather than specifically for this category of injury improves after a day and typically includes: or two On-site X-ray, so a diagnosis doesn’t require a separate imaging Numbness, tingling or loss of sensation near the appointment

Insider Trading is Legal in Real Estate

By Chris Hallows

es, the title of this article is silly, but it makes the point of the one thing that gets me excited about a real estate market like we are currently in. What is that market? It’s a fairly paced market with higher rates keeping demand tapered; yet, sellers also not feeling too much motivation for price lowering. Without large influence of market conditions – it is the buyer or seller who can work with their professionals and the right tools that are finding great opportunities in this market. These tools aren’t a secret but several of these are commonly unknown or misunderstood. My hope is that you can get some ideas from this article and feel like an insider in the market to help you make the right moves at the right time!

TEMPORARY BUYDOWNS

This is a tool that we’ve written about in the last few years, but given the current increase in rates mid-2026, it is as relevant as ever. Imagine the scenario where a seller wants to sell, a buyer wants to buy BUT the buyer just can’t get over the upwards of .75% increase in rates from the first of the year. With the belief that rates will likely come down in the coming two to five years, this tool allows the seller to pay for a lower temporary

rate for the buyer. A popular program about this is called a 2/1 buydown where a buyer would lock in, say, today’s 6.75% APR when they close but they would get a 4.75% effective rate for year one and a 5.75% for year two with the loan going to the 30-year fixed rate of 6.75% from month 25 and onward for the life of the loan. There is no prepayment penalty so it can be refinanced at any point and if refinanced within those 24 months of the lower-rate timeframe, the upfront seller credit used to bring the rates temporarily lower, is prorated and paid against the loan principal. This is a fantastic tool to provide a temporarily lower rate for buyers waiting on a lower rate market but wanting to buy at more competitive prices of today’s market (lower rates in the future are likely to come with higher prices). We are also seeing several move-up buyers using these when they are planning to buy their replacement residence first and sell their current home later but worry about carrying two larger mortgages. For example, on a $600,000 home purchase at an estimated 20% down, this could bring the first-year payment down by $609 per month! Yes, buyers fully qualify at the fixed rate and this is not an adjustable mortgage.

RECASTING YOUR MORTGAGE

On conventional loans, you are guaranteed at least one opportunity to “recast” your mortgage. This means that after closing on the home purchase, you can bring a large sum of funds to pay down your principal balance and arrange with the servicer that this doesn’t reduce your timeframe like normal pre-payments would, but rather you can keep the loan term and rate, but just have the payment reduced based on the new lower loan balance. This is not a refinance and is only about a $250 processing fee with your servicer. This is a fantastic tool for several circumstances; for example, move up buyers who want to purchase the replacement residence but also want to bring in proceeds from a trailing house sale to lower the mortgage payment or buyers expecting additional funds that don’t necessarily time out with the home purchase (think inheritances, gifts, timing market funds, etc.).

KNOW YOUR CONTRACT TERMS AND WORK WITH A PROFESSIONAL

If you’re going into a home purchase and thinking that you can (1) negotiate a price, (2) maybe ask for some repairs and (3) agree on a closing date – you are potentially missing out on an enormous amount of negotiation

tools and tactics! While I am not a licensed realtor and cannot represent contract terms, here are some things you may want to talk to your selected real estate professional about, as the right pro with the right tools is making all the difference right now! Repairs vs. Credits vs. Price Some simple math reveals that $10,000 off the price will save the buyer about $60 per month; that is a cleaner method for the seller than replacing an HVAC system. Having the seller provide a closing cost credit to offset buyer costs could put $10,000 back into the buyer’s pocket to deal with repairs. There are limits though to amounts of concessions or effective use, so understand how much you need and what a price, repair or credit can do for you.

CONTINGENCIES HAVE MONETARY VALUE

We are helping move-up buyers every month so that, in this market, they can sell and buy simultaneously. So, yes, it works! But it is important to talk to your realtor about the cost, convenience and overall pros and cons. If you can buy non-contingent or consider certain tools to do so, there may be some big advantages you haven’t considered, such as bridge loans, equity lines, non-contingent lending qualification, etc.

injury Pain that hasn’t started easing within 48 hours Catching a fracture, ligament tear or dislocation early generally leads to a simpler recovery than treating it after weeks of compensating or pushing through pain.

FINDING CARE AT NORTHERN ARIZONA ORTHOPAEDICS

For the sprains, fractures and joint injuries that make up a larger share of Flagstaff’s active-season injuries, same-day orthopedic evaluation offers a faster, more direct path to an accurate diagnosis and the right treatment plan. FBN Northern Arizona Orthopaedics offers walk-in, same-day orthopedic care at 1840 N Jasper Drive, Suite 2, Flagstaff, AZ 86001. Hours are Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Annebeth Ahrenholz is the senior communications specialist at Healthcare Outcomes Performance Company (HOPCo). For additional information or to schedule an appointment with Northern Arizona Orthopaedics, call 928-226-2900

PRE AND POST POSSESSION AGREEMENTS

Consider this a big asterisk here, notifying you that your broker and possibly an attorney should help you understand the risks, but it’s not uncommon for folks to close on a buy or sale and have agreements to lease back while timeline better aligns for the move in.

CLOSING DATE TRADES

Also consider this a big asterisk, too, to have your broker and possibly an attorney help you understand the risks, but it’s not uncommon for folks to close on a buy or sale with agreements to lease back the home while the timeline better aligns for the move in or move out.

KNOW WHAT IS IMPORTANT AS A BUYER OR SELLER

Ending with then what is maybe the purist essence of the title of this article is that this is not like buying a TV at Walmart where the associate doesn’t care if you buy it and has no particular motivation to sell it to you nor control over the price. In home buying and selling, you are in an open market, connecting (through representation typically) to another person, another human being with their own worries, stresses, emotional connections, reasons for financial Continued on page 31

Flagstaff Business News // SEPTEMBER 2026

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

Freshen Up Your Kitchen Before the Holidays

functionality and long-term value. Whether you’re preparing for holiday guests or simply ready to fall back in love with your kitchen again, our team at Kitchen Tune-Up Flagstaff can help. This September, give your kitchen a fresh start before the holidays arrive. Schedule a free consultation with us at Kitchen Tune-Up Flagstaff and discover what’s possible without starting from scratch. FBN

By Mark Rothlisberger

eptember is here, and for many Northern Arizona homeowners, it’s the perfect time to start preparing for the holiday season. As schedules fill with family gatherings, entertaining and celebrations, the kitchen becomes the center of the home. If your kitchen feels dated, worn or simply isn’t working as well as it could, now is the time to give it a fresh start. At Kitchen Tune-Up Flagstaff, we specialize in transforming kitchens without the high cost, mess and extended timelines of a traditional full-scale remodel. Our services are designed to create a noticeable difference while minimizing disruption to your home. From our signature Cabinet TuneUp to cabinet painting, refacing and new custom cabinetry, there are options for virtually every style and budget. Updating cabinet doors and drawer fronts, adding modern hardware, or introducing a fresh finish can completely change the look of your kitchen. Functional upgrades such as soft-close doors, pull-out shelving, and custom storage solu-

tions can make your kitchen easier and more enjoyable to use. Starting your project in September also gives you an important advantage: time. Many kitchen updates can be completed at a price of under $20k and in just days, allowing you to en-

joy your refreshed space well before the holiday entertaining season starts. Planning now can also help you avoid the last-minute rush that comes when homeowners realize their kitchen needs an update just weeks before guests arrive.

Beyond preparing your home for the holidays, a kitchen update is an investment you can enjoy every day for years to come. Thoughtful improvements can enhance your home’s appearance,

Mark Rothlisberger is the owner-operator of Kitchen Tune-Up. He can be reached at 928-707-0315.

The Holidays,

SERVED. Thoughtfully prepared holiday catering for gatherings worth celebrating at Little America Flagstaff.

BOOK YOUR HOL IDAY PART Y OR EVENT T ODAY

SEPTEMBER 2026 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

From Skylight City to First International Dark Sky City: Flagstaff Celebrates its Silver Jubilee

By Danielle Adams

iving in Flagstaff is remarkable. We’re surrounded by wonders of the natural world, our trees smell like vanilla and at night our urban sky is lit by thousands of stars. As reported by historian and author Platt Cline in “Mountain Town,” by 1892, Flagstaff’s high -altitude skies had earned it the nickname, “the Skylight City.” We’ve shared in big anniversaries this year – America’s 250th, Coconino County’s 135th, Route 66’s 100th and Star Trek’s 60th – but a very special anniversary is coming this fall that is unique to Flagstaff. On Oct. 24, 2001, Flagstaff was designated as the first “International Dark Sky City” in the world. That didn’t happen by accident. In 1958, Flagstaff created the world’s first ordinance protecting the night sky from artificial light by outlawing the use of non-emergency searchlights. It didn’t stop there. In 1989, first Coconino County and then the City of Flagstaff put in place the world’s most advanced comprehensive lighting code to protect our

night skies. This code, and all successive ones since, designated amber spectrum lighting, shielded fixtures and limits on lighting output as the core methods to keep our night sky full of stars. Today, Flagstaff still leads the world in developing best practices for preserving our view of the night sky, which happen to benefit our local wildlife as well. The city is almost finished installing the world’s most advanced LED street lighting grid for protecting the night sky, switching nearly 4,000 streetlights from the old low-pressure sodium bulbs to narrowband amber LEDs. A few months ago, the Arizona Department of Transportation also retrofitted to amber LEDs nearly 400 streetlights in the Flagstaff area, including interstate ramps and interchanges – yet another world first. These are huge achievements that we can all be proud of, but something else happened amid these progressive technical advances in protecting

the nocturnal environment. After forming in 2000, the nascent Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition submitted on June 14, 2001, a proposal to create an “International Dark Sky City” program to generate international recognition for communities “with exceptional commitment to and success in implementing the ideals of dark sky preservation” and to encourage communities to “identify

dark skies as a valuable community asset and goal.” After this proposal was accepted, the Coalition nominated Flagstaff to become the first one. On Oct. 24, 2001, Flagstaff was officially recognized as the world’s first International Dark Sky City and today this program has more than 270 recognized communities, parks and other types of dark-sky places around the planet. It all started here in Flagstaff, where dark skies are a deeply-held community value. This fall, we celebrate Flagstaff’s Silver Jubilee, its 25th anniversary as the first International Dark Sky City. In fact, this party got started with April’s International Dark Sky Week and continued with the Full Moon Summer Concert Series in Buffalo Park. As the annual Celebration of the Night begins in September, you can still catch the NightVisions: AMBER art exhibition at Coconino Center for the Arts through Saturday, Sept. 26 and two more Full Moon concerts in Buffalo

Park (Saturday, Sept. 26 and Sunday, Oct. 25). The 13th annual Flagstaff Star Party is scheduled for Thursday through Saturday, Oct. 1-3, in Buffalo Park, and then the 25th anniversary celebration takes place on Saturday, Oct 24, at Northern Arizona University’s Ardrey Auditorium. FBN Be sure to come out this fall to celebrate Flagstaff’s landmark anniversary! For more details, visit Discover Flagstaff’s dark skies page at bestastrotourism.com. Cultural astronomer Danielle Adams, Ph.D., is executive director for the Flagstaff Dark Skies Coalition.

Flagstaff Business News // SEPTEMBER 2026

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

// MAYOR’S ADDRESS // BY BECKY DAGGETT

Our Chance to Make Sure Flagstaff First Responders Have What They Need

lagstaff voters will have some choices to make in this year’s general election. Besides choosing between City Council candidates, there are two propositions and we’re asked to decide whether to pass both to fund additional public safety staff and facilities. I’m including important links to additional information at the end of this column. It’s important to note how these propositions have ended up on our ballots. A public safety citizen’s committee

was created to hear the needs of fire, police, emergency management and airport fire and rescue. The committee met for six months – often multiple times per month – to consider these needs, dissect the city’s budget, discuss all the funding options and make a recommendation to the City Council. You can watch any or all of the committee’s meetings, view all the documents they considered and see the presentations that were given. Similar public safety measures have

// Another essential investment is additions to police, fire and emergency management vehicles and equipment. Equipment critical to emergency response – including wildland fire equipment, emergency medical equipment, criminal investigation tools and updated dispatch technology – will ensure that all emergency response will be conducted quickly and with the right tools. //

recently passed in several Arizona cities, including Chandler (2022 and 2025), Glendale, Phoenix, Mesa and Prescott. Proposition 404 is a ½ cent sales tax (.50 on a $100 purchase) expiring in 15 years. Groceries and rent aren’t taxable in the City of Flagstaff and wouldn’t be impacted. This measure, if passed in November, enables additional staffing, which will result in faster response times and increased wildland forest management and fire mitigation. The Flagstaff Fire Department will hire more firefighters with specialized wildland fire training and medical training, such as paramedic credentials, to respond to emergencies. The Flagstaff Police Department will hire additional sworn officers and staff, including detectives and traffic patrols, police aides to manage non-emergency calls and dispatchers and evidence staff. Proposition 405 is a general obligation bond to build the facilities and purchase the equipment and technology to put Flagstaff public safety in an excellent and strategic position heading

into the future. Much-needed facilities will be constructed, including a new fire training facility, fire station, fire station modernization, police department expansion and police evidence warehouse. These facilities will enable police and fire to better serve our community now and into the future. Another essential investment is additions to police, fire and emergency management vehicles and equipment. Equipment critical to emergency response – including wildland fire equipment, emergency medical equipment, criminal investigation tools and updated dispatch technology – will ensure that all emergency response will be conducted quickly and with the right tools. The $40M bond is within the city’s bonding capacity, meaning our existing property tax rates remain the same. The citizen’s committee voted unanimously to forward the propositions to the City Council, who in turn voted unanimously to place both on the November 2026 gen-

eral election ballot. I support Propositions 404 and 405 and urge you to read the available information, watch the presentations to both the committee and to council and attend an informational session or request a presentation be made to your organization. Both propositions are critical. FBN Please join me and public safety leadership for my “Coffee with the Mayor” from 8-9:30 a.m., Thursday, Sept. 24, at Mayan Winds, 2144 N Fourth St. Learn more about the Citizen’s Public Safety Committee’s work, read Q&As, watch their meetings, and view presentations at connect.flagstaffaz.gov/safety-committee/public-safety-citizens-committee. Read more about the propositions and details of the funding allocations at connect. flagstaffaz.gov/safety-committee. Voter information can be found here coconino.az.gov/195/ Elections.

Let our family take care of yours! Plumbing, radiant in-floor heating systems, forced air heating and air conditioning for new construction, remodels and 24 hour service. 6993 N. Columbine Flagstaff, AZ 86004 Tel (928) 526-7006/ (928) 526-6231 www.intermountainaz.com admin@intermountainaz.com

SEPTEMBER 2026 // Flagstaff Business News

@flagstaffbusinessnews

Meet the Owners of Matkat’s Mattress, Helping Northern Arizonans Get Better Sleep

1. WHAT HAS IT BEEN LIKE BUILDING AND RUNNING A BUSINESS?

Starting a small business has been the biggest project I have ever started.

2. WHAT DO YOU THINK MAKES MATKAT’S DIFFERENT FROM THE LARGE NATIONAL MATTRESS CHAINS AND ONLINE MATTRESS RETAILERS?

My experience in the mattress industry has made me passionate about customer experience. From the moment you walk through the door at Matkat’s, we put the customer first. We source the best value in the industry so we can offer great products in every price range. Every customer is different, so we tailor the experi-

ence to suit each individual’s needs. From hands-on guidance to our laidback gallery setting, just like our beds, Matkat’s mattress is a comfortable place to be and shop.

3. WHAT IS ONE THING YOU WISH MORE PEOPLE KNEW ABOUT CHOOSING THE RIGHT MATTRESS?

Always try the mattress in the store. I have heard way too many stories of people buying a mattress online and not liking it. Of course, there might be a sleep trial, but the process won’t be free or easy. At Matkat’s, we believe our mattress buying guide will help you find the right bed for you the first time. We truly care that our customers buy a mattress they actually like, so we also offer a 120-night sleep trial.

4. HOW HAS MATKAT’S GROWN OR CHANGED SINCE YOU FIRST OPENED, AND WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF ACCOMPLISHING SO FAR?

In our first year in business, we have learned and grown tremendously. If you took a snapshot a year ago

and compared it to today you would find it’s a new store. We have painted all the walls inside and out, replaced the floor and added new, better brands and products. We still offer exceptional service and free delivery. Now we carry industry-leading brands at great prices in a premier gallery setting.

5. WHAT HAS BEEN THE BIGGEST REWARD OF OWNING A SMALL BUSINESS?

In our first year, we have delivered mattresses to Alaska, New Mexico and all over Arizona, including Phoenix. The people you meet along the way always make all the hard work worthwhile. Hearing the positive feedback makes us smile and feel good about the business we are doing.

6. WHEN YOU LOOK FIVE YEARS DOWN THE ROAD, WHAT DO YOU HOPE PEOPLE IN FLAGSTAFF AND NORTHERN ARIZONA WILL SAY WHEN THEY HEAR THE NAME MATKAT’S MATTRESS? In five years, I hope the people of Flagstaff and Northern Arizona

Snowbowl Names Brandon Thom General Manager, Dale Haglin Chief Operating Officer

rizona Snowbowl has named Brandon Thom general manager and promoted Dale Haglin to chief operating officer ahead of the 2026–27 ski season. The appointments come as Arizona Snowbowl invests more than $1 million in forest health work, a new conveyor for first-time skiers and snowboarders and snowmaking upgrades for the 2026–27 season. Haglin will lead the resort’s long-term operational planning and major capital projects, while Thom will oversee day-to-day operations with a focus on guest experience and employee engagement. “Brandon is a proven leader who understands how to manage complex operations and build strong teams, and has a genuine passion for skiing,” said Scott Price, president of Mountain Capital Partners, which owns and operates Arizona Snowbowl. “Dale’s operational expertise and knowledge of this mountain are invaluable. Together, their complementary strengths create a strong foundation for Snowbowl’s future.” Thom brings more than 15 years of experience leading hospitality, recreation and attractions operations. Most recently, he served as senior director of operations at Margaritaville at Sea and previously held executive positions that included serving as vice president and general manager of Adventure Island at SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. “I’m thrilled to join the Snowbowl family and honored to contribute to its future success as Arizona’s premier ski resort,” said Thom. “I’ve quickly fallen in love with Flagstaff and look forward to becoming involved in the community.

Brandon Thom

Dale Haglin

Providing a memorable experience for everyone who visits the mountain matters deeply to our team and it will be central to my focus this winter and beyond.” Born and raised in Flagstaff, Haglin began working at Arizona Snowbowl as a sawyer while attending Northern Arizona University. Through his 45-year career at the resort, he has supervised teams across the organization and served as director of mountain operations for 30 years, helping lead significant infrastructure and operational improvements across the mountain. “I’ve spent nearly five decades watching Snowbowl evolve, and I’ve seen firsthand what thoughtful investment can do for our guests, our employees and the way the mountain runs,” said Haglin. “I’m proud to step into this role and work with Brandon to keep improving the mountain while preserving the sense of community that defines Snowbowl.” FBN

Sadie and Wesley Myers opened Matkat’s Mattress in 2025. Courtesy photo

think of MatKat’s Mattress as the best place around to buy a mattress. It is a simple goal, but we want to be the mattress store for the people. We understand that you have to take care of your neighbor in a small town and our customers are our neighbors. FBN

Wesley and Sadie Myers are the owners and operators of MatKat’s Mattress, located at 624 E. Route 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001. For more information, call 928-440-3210 of visit www.matkatsmattress.com.

Northern Arizona Healthcare’s (NAH) Office of Philanthropy is grateful to the sponsors of the 2026 Machine Solutions Run & Walk for Kids. Their generous support helped raise more than $39,000 for NAH’s Children’s Health Center, which provides life-changing services to children throughout our community and beyond.

Thank you to the individuals and organizations whose contributions made this year's event a success.

nd the ou

atKat’s Mattress owners Wesley and Sadie Myers grew up in Flagstaff. They love the outdoors and the community. “We wanted to contribute something positive in our hometown, so we started a small business,” said Wesley. Wesley shares more about the business through the questions and answers that follow:

Mountain P edi a st ry t ri c D e n ti

Flagstaff Business News // SEPTEMBER 2026

flagstaffbusinessnews.com

The Part of the Home Nobody Tours

By Luke Goettl

alk through any home for sale in Northern Arizona and you can watch people fall in love in real time. They notice the light in the kitchen. The way the living room opens up. Whether there’s room for a table big enough for everybody at Thanksgiving. They stand at the window and look out at the pines, or the red rock, or the wide-open sky and they start imagining a life there. Nobody stands in front of the furnace and has a moment. I don’t blame them. Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions a family makes and it’s an emotional one. You’re not thinking about ductwork. You’re thinking about whether this is the place. But I’ve been in this business long enough to know that the equipment nobody tours is often the equipment that decides how the first year in that home actually feels. Your HVAC system is one of the most expensive pieces of equipment in any house. In our part of Arizona, it’s also one of the hardest working. Our homes deal with cold mountain mornings, high-desert heat, monsoon moisture, dust and temperature swings

that can move 30 degrees in a single day. A system that would coast along somewhere milder gets tested here. That’s why it’s worth understanding what you’re inheriting, or what you’re handing off. If you’re selling, the HVAC system is one of the few things in the transaction you can get ahead of. A system check before you list does two things. It tells you the truth about the condition of the equipment and it gives you time to do something about it. Small repairs made on your schedule cost less than emergency repairs made three days before closing, when everyone’s nerves are already thin and every dollar is being negotiated. I’ve watched good deals get tense over a heating problem that could have been handled quietly a month earlier for a fraction of the cost. Documentation helps too. Service records, maintenance history, the age of the equipment. That isn’t just paperwork. It’s evidence that the home was cared for. Buyers notice that and so do their agents. If you’re buying, the inspection report is a starting point, not the whole story. A general home inspection is broad by design. It confirms the system turns on and produces heat or cool air. It

doesn’t always tell you how much life is left in the equipment, whether it was sized correctly for the house, whether the ductwork was installed well or whether the system has been genuinely maintained or has simply survived. Age is a number. Condition is a different question. I’ve seen 20-yearold systems that were looked after and still running strong, and eight-year-old systems that were neglected and headed for a hard winter. So, ask what you’re actually getting. When was it installed? Has it been maintained and by whom? Are there records? Has anyone looked at the ductwork or only at the equipment? That last one matters more than most people expect. When you buy a home, you inherit whatever is in the ducts. Years of dust, construction debris, pet dander and whatever the previous family lived with is still moving through that house. Having the ducts and dryer vent cleaned before you move in is one of the simplest things a new homeowner can do and one of the most satisfying. It’s a fresh start for the air in the home, not just the paint on the walls. One more thing, and I’ll say it as plainly as I can: Real estate transactions have deadlines and deadlines create pressure.

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