The most common concern of those with hearing loss is not being able to understand others. “I can hear them,” a patient will say, “I just don’t know what they said.” Considering the fact that verbal communication is how most people interact with others, being able to do so is essential. However, people can often conflate hearing and understanding. While undoubtedly interconnected, they are two distinct functions. Understanding the difference can help to improve outcomes and satisfaction with … [Read more...] about Hearing Versus Understanding
Seeking Support, Solutions for Flagstaff’s Challenges
In late April, I joined nearly 50 other mayors and descended on Washington, D.C., on a mission to fight for solutions to address the housing and homelessness crisis affecting U.S. cities. We advocated for changes to voucher income qualifications for veterans, additional funding for housing choice vouchers and increasing or eliminating the cap on the number of project-based vouchers (vouchers that are attached to a rental development rather than an individual or family). On the first day of our … [Read more...] about Seeking Support, Solutions for Flagstaff’s Challenges
What to Consider When Buying a Home in Flagstaff Now
Prospective Flagstaff homebuyers often find themselves pondering a crucial question: Is now a good time to buy a home? As the local real estate market continues to evolve, the decision to purchase a home requires careful consideration. From assessing market conditions to understanding financial factors, making an informed decision is essential. As a mortgage loan officer in Flagstaff, here’s what you need to know to navigate this decision. Market Analysis: Flagstaff’s real estate market is … [Read more...] about What to Consider When Buying a Home in Flagstaff Now
Lowell Leader, Stellar Researcher Jeff Hall Shines as Dark Skies Champion
In the nicest, most respectful and patiently persistent way, Lowell Observatory Executive Director Jeff Hall has been a “bullfighter” for dark skies on many different levels, say those in the astronomer world. “There’s a saying: ‘It’s not what you do, but how you do it that counts,’” said Lowell Historian Kevin Schindler. “And Jeff has mastered the skill of working through sometimes contentious issues with people who may see things differently and finding a solution that’s good for … [Read more...] about Lowell Leader, Stellar Researcher Jeff Hall Shines as Dark Skies Champion
Advancing Hand Surgery: WALANT Procedures
In the field of hand surgery, the Wide-Awake Local Anesthesia No Tourniquet (WALANT) technique represents a significant advancement in how we approach and perform surgeries. This method, which utilizes an injection of local anesthesia without sedation or a tourniquet, is enhancing surgical procedures by offering a safer, patient-centered alternative that enhances recovery and satisfaction. What is WALANT? The WALANT technique involves the use of a local anesthetic solution, typically lidocaine … [Read more...] about Advancing Hand Surgery: WALANT Procedures
Making Real Estate Lemonade from Lemons
Historically speaking, 2012 was likely it – the best year to buy a home in maybe the last 50 years. It was the rare time of stars aligning where post-crash demand was still low, the foreclosure inventory market was still working through so supply was high and you had the effects of a final round of Quantitative Easing from the Federal Reserve leading to sub-4% interest rates. Truly an uncommon, “stars aligned” type moment, given the uncommon and painful conditions preceding it. In most … [Read more...] about Making Real Estate Lemonade from Lemons
Common Causes of Fatigue Not Related to Illness
Most people experience fatigue at some point in their life. It becomes a problem when the fatigue is debilitating on a day-to-day basis. Feelings of sluggishness, low motivation, low energy or zest for life is common as we age. There are many illnesses that can cause fatigue such as chronic fatigue, chronic infections, blood sugar abnormalities, anemia, insomnia, hypothyroidism and adrenal fatigue. Some causes of fatigue that aren’t related to disease may be part of aging, jet lag, poor diet and … [Read more...] about Common Causes of Fatigue Not Related to Illness
Expanding Access to Post-Treatment Care
An effective treatment program is an impactful way to help someone struggling with a substance use disorder. The government, treatment professionals and local non-profits are working tirelessly to expand access to care to treat substance use disorders. Local communities are committed to expanding access to treatment programs, but they often don’t share this same commitment when it comes to expanding access to post-treatment care. Relapse after leaving treatment is all too common, which is why … [Read more...] about Expanding Access to Post-Treatment Care
Carbon Neutrality’s Unintended Consequences
The City of Flagstaff has one climate action plan, the Carbon Neutrality Plan (CNP). This $600,000,000 plan aims to make Flagstaff “carbon neutral” by 2030. To achieve carbon neutrality, the city’s carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions must be reduced by 857,039 metric tons annually (CNP p. 46). As the CNP states on page 5, achieving this goal will require “…drastic shifts in how we heat and power our buildings, travel from place to place, and manage our waste.” The plan strives to make Flagstaff an … [Read more...] about Carbon Neutrality’s Unintended Consequences
Enhancements Underway at Flagstaff Pulliam Airport to Improve Traveler Experience
Flagstaff Pulliam Airport has recently undergone significant maintenance, with renovations still in progress to enhance the traveler experience. Both the interior and exterior of the terminal building have been repainted, and maintenance of the fire suppression system is nearing completion. Replacement entry doors and carpeting in the foyer have been installed, and updates to wayfinding signage and lighting are currently underway. To minimize disruption, all work is being done at night. Terminal … [Read more...] about Enhancements Underway at Flagstaff Pulliam Airport to Improve Traveler Experience