Caring, giving, sharing. The holidays can bring out the best in most of us. But for family caregivers, this is everyday life. Caring for a loved one can be a rewarding experience. But it also can be very stressful on the caregiver, especially if that individual is trying to manage a career, family and children in addition to the caregiving responsibilities. The most important piece of advice to give family caregivers is to care for themselves first. It’s similar to oxygen masks in … [Read more...] about How Family Caregivers Can Care for Themselves
Columnists
Spending Changes Can Be a Sign of Memory Loss
I am often asked what signs are common with dementia patients other than the obvious memory loss. A common sign that often goes unnoticed is changes in their spending habits. Here are some warning signs to watch for with elderly family members: Late payments or double payments can be a sign of dementia. Watch for patterns of unopened bills or paying the same bill repeatedly. I am sure we have all done this once or twice but if you are seeing a pattern, it may be an indication of dementia or … [Read more...] about Spending Changes Can Be a Sign of Memory Loss
Reflecting on Traditions
This month holds so many wonderful traditions for families and communities. The drop of the Flagstaff pinecone on New Year’s Eve, the lighting of the Courthouse Square in Prescott, the celebrations that bring neighbors together – our traditions unite us during this festive season. At Northern Arizona University, we understand the power of traditions to create a shared experience and common goal. We carry that throughout every day, because our tradition is not limited to any specific holiday … [Read more...] about Reflecting on Traditions
Reflecting on Reasons to Love Fall in Flagstaff
As 2017 comes to a close, it’s a good time for reflection. Here are my Top 10 reasons to love fall in Flagstaff: Standing in my backyard every morning, shivering, gazing at Agassiz Peak until the sun’s first pink ray finds the summit. Driving into town and seeing the Peaks wrapped in the yellow/gold ribbon of quaking Aspen, like a present waiting to be unwrapped. Mountain biking with friends anywhere, anytime. Helping our girls unpack and try on boots, skis, gloves, poles … [Read more...] about Reflecting on Reasons to Love Fall in Flagstaff
Ending the Year on a Financial High Note
The holiday season is around the corner, and with the busy days ahead, 2018 will be here before you know it. Amidst all the action, we understand how easy it is to wait until the New Year to consider financial changes. But taking a few steps now could help you reduce your tax liabilities – and start January on a stronger financial foot. Consider completing the following tasks before 2017 is over: Make Charitable Donations Giving to non-profits you care about can be a powerful way to … [Read more...] about Ending the Year on a Financial High Note
When Should I Fire an Employee?
A couple weeks ago, I had lunch with a local CEO that was going back and forth over firing an employee. She was reluctant for two reasons: the employee was in a key position and she was worried what impact it would have on the organization and senior team. Also, the employee had been loyal. It is a situation where there is no longer a “fit.” Last week, I ran into another local CEO who told me he had hired two university students only to have to fire them because they had violated a number of … [Read more...] about When Should I Fire an Employee?
What do Skiing, Kids and ACLs Have in Common?
Some had dreams of a snow-blanketed mountain by Dec. 1, but it’s only a matter of time. Soon, folks from all walks of life will begin cruising down snow-covered slopes in our local mountain regions. Skiing offers recreation, leisure, exercise, connection and, for the more serious youth, competition. As an orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, a parent of young competitive skiers and a former ski racing competitor myself, I personally have seen both joy and pain on and off the … [Read more...] about What do Skiing, Kids and ACLs Have in Common?
Deciding on the Right Boat, Barge or Big Ship
There are big ships, small ships, river boats, yachts, barges and sailboats. How do you know which one is best for you? Our goal is to match the right person with the right experience! There are many options out there. A bad vacation is not just a waste of your hard-earned money but a waste of time, which is almost worse, right? There are many river cruise companies out there. They cruise on the same rivers, the vessels are very similar in size but the experiences can be very different. What … [Read more...] about Deciding on the Right Boat, Barge or Big Ship
Winterizing Homes and Businesses for Comfort and Efficiency
The temperatures are getting cooler and we will soon start bundling up and preparing for another Northern Arizona winter. Will your home and business be prepared, too? Are they operating efficiently and sustainably during the colder months? Coconino County has been a leader in sustainability initiatives in Northern Arizona for more than a decade. This is a great testament to Coconino County’s Sustainable Building Program (CCSBP), a program that we hope more people will use. CCSBP helps … [Read more...] about Winterizing Homes and Businesses for Comfort and Efficiency
Native American Festival of Arts & Culture
One of the best things about living in Northern Arizona is the integration of and access to the history, rich culture and traditions of Native Americans. That is why this month, NACA (Native Americans for Community Action, Inc.) and the First Nations Development Institute are sponsoring the Native American Festival of Arts & Culture. The event is on Saturday, Dec. 16, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., at the DoubleTree Hilton, 1175 W. Route 66, Flagstaff. The festival is a celebration of Indigenous … [Read more...] about Native American Festival of Arts & Culture