After last month's discussion of school credits, I was planning to follow up with some other credits that you can use in Arizona. But the news sometimes diverts attention from a well-planned timeline. (I'm shooting for November for a further discussion of tax credits.) This month, we have to talk about Equifax. We have to talk about Equifax. Yes, I repeat myself, but this is huge – it requires repetition. Equifax revealed that 143 million credit files, or at least major parts, have been … [Read more...] about Trick or Treat: A Scary Story
Columnists
Why More Native American Women Die from Breast Cancer than Other Cultures
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and there are vast amounts of information on prevention, detection and treatment of breast cancer. As a matter of fact, the amount of information available is almost overwhelming and many may wonder why it needs repeating. After all, women and men alike know the recommendations for doing monthly breast self-exams and having regular mammograms after the age of 50 or sooner if there is a family history. Unfortunately, even though the importance … [Read more...] about Why More Native American Women Die from Breast Cancer than Other Cultures
Is This the Season for Selling a Home?
Every year near the end of August as I pass by Wheeler Park in downtown Flagstaff, a special tree near the corner of Humphreys and Birch catches my eye. This one tree seems to change color, to a spectacular red, far earlier than most. It is a subtle reminder of the beautiful (and colorful) season before us. Fall is one of my favorites. Aspens are bright golden yellow and mornings cool and crisp. It’s the time when we get to stoke up the fireplace for the first fire of the season, and take in a … [Read more...] about Is This the Season for Selling a Home?
Monitoring How Assisted Living Community Members are Adjusting to Their New Home
One of the biggest decisions a family has to make is when it is time for their loved one to move into an assisted living community. Once that decision is made, the next big question families ask is, “How do we really know that our loved one is happy and adjusting to their new home?” Here are some things to consider: Determine how much time they are spending in their room. Socialization is important, even for the introvert. Talk to the Life Enrichment team or Activities … [Read more...] about Monitoring How Assisted Living Community Members are Adjusting to Their New Home
Five Ways to Become a Better Landlord
It is in a landlord’s best interest to have long-term tenants who pay their rent on time and take great care of the landlord’s property. On average, a landlord spends between 20 and 40 hours to fill each vacancy. That includes advertising, showings, review of applications and execution of the lease agreement. Better landlords understand they are in business and act accordingly. Like with any other business, the owner must understand they are providing a product or service that must be attractive … [Read more...] about Five Ways to Become a Better Landlord
Treating an Ankle Sprain
For many in Flagstaff active in various types of sports and recreation, an ankle sprain is an unfortunate and uncomfortable set back. Recently, a good friend of mine sustained her first ankle sprain and we had a long discussion regarding various aspects of this injury. This is the gist of our conversation and the answers to many Frequently Asked Questions about ankle sprains. Research tells us that ankle sprains are the most common reason for Emergency Department visits in the … [Read more...] about Treating an Ankle Sprain
Treating Sleeping Disorders Through Dentistry
There are many types of sleeping disorders affecting the quality of life of more than 20 million Americans and quite possibly shortening their lives. One of the areas of sleep disorders is obstructive sleep apnea. It is a very common and potentially life-threatening medical disorder that prevents airflow during sleep. Sleep apnea occurs when tissue in the back of the throat collapses and blocks the airway, reducing the amount of oxygen delivered to all of your organs, including your heart and … [Read more...] about Treating Sleeping Disorders Through Dentistry
Financial Issues to Consider in Remarriages
About one-third of U.S. residents ages 15 and older have been married at least twice, according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey. Remarriage among American ages 55 and older is on the rise, while their younger counterparts are becoming less likely to have remarried. Remarrying later in life can create several complex financial, legal, and emotional matters that should be addressed. Be candid about your financial situation. Couples who are marrying for the … [Read more...] about Financial Issues to Consider in Remarriages
Comparing Physical Therapy and Opioids
For many of us, we know the nuisance of a minor pain. If allergies cause us to have a sinus headache, we take a decongestant. Back pain from a weekend of yard work? Ibuprofen may do the trick. But what about those who suffer from chronic pain that lasts longer than six months? No one wants to live in pain, but we also have to be careful not to put our health at risk to be pain-free. Americans have increasingly been prescribed opioids – painkillers like Vicodin, … [Read more...] about Comparing Physical Therapy and Opioids
Why Flagstaff City Council Supports DACA
Hello Flagstaff! Recently, the Flagstaff City Council passed a resolution in support of DACA, Dreamers and comprehensive immigration reform. I was proud that the resolution had bipartisan support, and if you consider the facts it becomes clear why sensible immigration policy makes sense regardless of political affiliation. Immigrants are a vital part of Arizona’s economy – they are employees, business owners and taxpayers. According to a recent study published by the New American … [Read more...] about Why Flagstaff City Council Supports DACA