July 20, 2019 marks the 50th anniversary of the first manned mission to the Moon. Well before Neil Armstrong made his giant leap on that day, he and his fellow space travelers took a whole slew of small steps right here in Northern Arizona, where they honed their scientific skills at a variety of locations in the area. Local scientists not only led these training efforts, but also developed instruments specially designed for use on the lunar surface and created detailed maps of the Moon. To … [Read more...] about Celebrating Northern Arizona’s Lunar Legacy
Humming Along the Rim with Buck Wild
Humvees have joined helicopters, airplanes, river rafts and mules as another interesting way to explore the Grand Canyon. Known as the oldest and largest sightseeing company in the world, Papillon Group is extending its services to include Buck Wild Hummer Tours with custom built Humvee excursions. After 50 plus years of serving the Grand Canyon, Jake Tomlin, President of Buck Wild Hummer Tours and Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines (subsidiaries of Papillon Group), wanted to offer service … [Read more...] about Humming Along the Rim with Buck Wild
Tailored Tutoring Changing the Instruction Model
A local entrepreneur is taking the time-honored practice of tutoring back to school with an application that streamlines the process of finding a private instructor and uses a mix of in-person and video services to make tutoring more convenient and affordable for college students. Rob Lokken, a recent Northern Arizona University graduate with a degree in mathematics, said the idea for the business came from providing long-distance tutoring for his sister. "She was in Phoenix struggling … [Read more...] about Tailored Tutoring Changing the Instruction Model
Vacationing Families Borrow Island Dogs for Day Trips
In the lobby of the Kauai Humane Society, nine-year-old Oliver Hopkins can hardly wait to see Dorothy again. Within minutes, the big, lovable pit bull mix is reunited with her new best friend as Oliver wraps his arms around her sturdy neck and mom and dad stand by. For vacationing families missing their pets, or hikers just looking for a pal to join them on an outdoor adventure, the animal shelter has a kennel full of companionship eager to play at the beach, trek through the jungle or hang … [Read more...] about Vacationing Families Borrow Island Dogs for Day Trips
Making Homes Safe for Seniors
A lot of time is spent in the home, so ensuring a home’s safety for a loved one should be a top priority. There are many everyday areas within a home that host some concern that healthy adults may take for granted. What may not be an obstacle to you, may be to your elderly loved one. Many areas of the home should be addressed to better suit the mobility and agility limitations we experience as we age. Here is a safety preparedness checklist that can really make a significant … [Read more...] about Making Homes Safe for Seniors
Reviewing How Healthcare Costs, Coverage Have Changed
Every year, The Kaiser Foundation completes an extensive national survey of Employer Health Benefits. As healthcare had changed dramatically over the past 10 years, it provides some really good information, historical references and even some surprising statistics. Remember, these are national statistics. Premiums and Employer Contributions In 2017, the average single premiums for employer-based health insurance were $6,690; up 4 percent from 2016. Average family premiums … [Read more...] about Reviewing How Healthcare Costs, Coverage Have Changed
Prescott’s Champion Juniper Receiving More Attention from Hikers
“It’s historical, emotional, as well as beautiful.” That statement comes from visibly moved hiker Barbara Russell of Albany, New York, following her visit to the Prescott National Forest’s massive alligator juniper tree. Believed to be the largest and oldest of its kind in the world, the juniper has been designated as an Arizona Champion Tree on the American Forests’ National Register of Big Trees. Sometimes called the Grandfather Tree, Forester Ben De Blois says it’s difficult to know … [Read more...] about Prescott’s Champion Juniper Receiving More Attention from Hikers
Hiking, Walking and Being Outside Improves Your Health
Summer has arrived and the outdoors is beckoning into the warm sunshine, cool shade, tall pines and scenic trails. Spending time outdoors and in nature can be very enjoyable and relaxing, but did you know spending time outside can also make you happier and healthier? Here are just a few ways hiking is a great addition to your weekly routine: Calmer Mind and Body Being in nature provides a feeling of relaxation that reduces anxiety and stress. In fact, just seeing pictures of nature … [Read more...] about Hiking, Walking and Being Outside Improves Your Health
Warnings from the IRS About the Latest Tax Scams
The Internal Revenue Service has concluded its annual "Dirty Dozen" list of tax scams with a warning to taxpayers to remain vigilant about these aggressive and evolving schemes throughout the year. The information below is a reprint from IRS.gov for June. This year's “Dirty Dozen” list highlights a wide variety of schemes that taxpayers may encounter throughout the year, many of which peak during tax-filing season. The schemes can run the gamut from simple refund inflation scams to technical … [Read more...] about Warnings from the IRS About the Latest Tax Scams
Protect Our Forests, Especially During Drought
Hello Flagstaff! Hopefully, by the time you read this, it will have rained. As of its writing, I’m wondering if I plant some tomatoes in the garden can I maybe tempt the weather into snow? It’s dry, really dry, and right now, windy. Large parts of our treasured national forests are closed, and fire restrictions are in effect for Flagstaff and Coconino County. We implement restrictions and close the forest to protect them from the very real threat of a catastrophic fire. There are several … [Read more...] about Protect Our Forests, Especially During Drought