There comes a time when many of us face the realities of caring for an aging family member, and ultimately, planning for our own care. In the financial arena, mental impairment of a loved one may result in the appointment of a guardian and conservator. When this happens, the conservator has control over the assets, and as such, must file financial accounting reports to the courts. A few years ago, I was engaged to review the accounting reports (and any supporting documentation) submitted to the … [Read more...] about Avoiding Financial Court When Caring for a Family Member
Columnists
Innovative Health Plans Delivering Big Benefits
As we approach the time when many employers start preparing for their upcoming renewal, there are a couple of options that are frequently overlooked. Traditional plans are fully insured, meaning that the health insurance company takes all risk for claim and administration expenses. As an alternative, partially self-funded plans can often provide lower rates without extraordinary risk. Partially Self-Funded Plans There are many TPAs (third party administrators) and insurance carriers, … [Read more...] about Innovative Health Plans Delivering Big Benefits
Considering Real Estate Investments
Love Flagstaff? Already own a house? Have you thought of buying another? Driving around Flagstaff, it’s hard to not notice all the building and improvements happening in all parts of town. The Standard, The Hub, Switzer Mesa, Timber Sky and many more. Residential real estate in Flagstaff has jumped 38 percent since 2015. The average sales price of a home in the City of Flagstaff is $439,200. Forecasters predict continued, albeit slower, growth – at least until 2022. Our temperate climate, … [Read more...] about Considering Real Estate Investments
Palo Verde Generating Station: A Vital Resource for Arizona
When you think of the most remarkable landmarks that contribute to the beauty of our state, places like the Grand Canyon, Meteor Crater, the San Francisco Peaks and Red Rocks of Sedona are likely on the list. There’s another important landmark that may not be top of mind but is crucial to Arizona’s clean air, blue skies and natural environment. Gov. Doug Ducey refers to it as “a crown jewel in the state’s vital infrastructure and one of the greatest examples of Arizona’s pioneering … [Read more...] about Palo Verde Generating Station: A Vital Resource for Arizona
Extending Your Garden’s Life Throughout the Fall
Even in Northern Arizona, where frosts come as late as mid-June and as early as September, gardening does not have to be a summer-only activity. There’s a lot of life left in your garden at this time of year and plenty to do, including enjoying what you’ve already planted, getting some new flowers and vegetables in the ground for fall abundance, and planning for next year. First, take a look at what you’ve already got in your garden. You’ll probably have flowers and veggies that are still … [Read more...] about Extending Your Garden’s Life Throughout the Fall
Coconino County Fair a Community Resource
The Coconino County Fair celebrated its 69th year this Labor Day weekend at historic Fort Tuthill County Park, where more than 40,000 people attended the event. The County Fair celebrated community members’ skills and achievements, and connected the community through four days of fun, education and merriment. The County Fair is truly a community event where adult and youth community members exhibited animals and handicrafts, and people of all ages enjoyed the various entertainment acts, … [Read more...] about Coconino County Fair a Community Resource
When a Bump on the Head is More than a Bump on the Head
A Traumatic Brain Injury, or TBI, is caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head, or a penetrating (piercing) head injury. TBIs disrupt the normal function of the brain and can range from mild to severe and have short-term and long-term effects that can change the way a person thinks, acts, moves and feels. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, estimates 1.5 million Americans sustain a brain injury each year. As a result of these injuries: 230,000 people are hospitalized and … [Read more...] about When a Bump on the Head is More than a Bump on the Head
Easing Arthritis Pain with Massage
More than one in four adults in the United States suffers from arthritis, which the Arthritis Foundation reports as the leading cause of disability. Nearly 172 million workdays each year are lost because of arthritis and arthritis-related conditions. In 2013 alone, total medical costs and earnings losses from arthritis totaled more than $300 billion. The numbers today are much higher. The Arthritis Foundation reports: Conservative estimates indicate 54 million adults and almost … [Read more...] about Easing Arthritis Pain with Massage
Expo Helping Travelers Plan Where They Will Go Next Year
It’s time to get ready for Avenues of the World’s 5th Annual Northern Arizona Travel Expo. The event is scheduled for 5-8 p.m., Thursday Sept. 20, at the Doubletree by Hilton, 1175 Historic Route 66, in Flagstaff. No better place to be for Happy Hour! Avenues of the World Travel has created this educational event for travelers like you. Meet with professionals behind the scenes, ask questions and learn what products are out there that you may not know about. Avenues of the World’s travel … [Read more...] about Expo Helping Travelers Plan Where They Will Go Next Year
Understanding Conductive Hearing Loss
Hearing loss is described by type and degree of loss. The type of hearing loss is determined by the location of the dysfunction. The degree of loss is determined by how much power is needed to hear sound. The ear is divided into the outer ear, middle ear and inner ear. In this article, I will discuss at the outer and middle sections of the ear as well as any hearing loss that may originate in these areas. Outer Ear Anatomy and Function The outer ear extends from the pinna (the area … [Read more...] about Understanding Conductive Hearing Loss