We humans often take our bones for granted, but bones are actually living, growing tissue. Our bones are made up of connective tissue, one of the four basic types of human tissue. In addition to giving our bodies structure and protection, bones make red blood cells, which supply proteins and oxygen to tissues, and they make white blood cells, which help fight infection. Although human bones stop growing in our 20s, we replace and repair bone throughout our lifetimes. When bone replacement … [Read more...] about Preventing and Treating Osteoporosis
Columnists
Six for 2016
Here we are, at the beginning of another year. 2015 was eventful, but I’d be hard-pressed to think of an uneventful year. While we don’t know what 2016 will bring, I know a few things I’d like to see in the New Year. Since I’m not one for New Year’s resolutions, I decided to simply describe what I hope to see this year in myself and in others. More civility: This will surprise no one who read my December column. The world needs more civility and less rancor, especially as we move into the … [Read more...] about Six for 2016
Goodwill Helps to Provide a Fresh Start for Ex-Offenders
For many who have served their sentences and are leaving jail or prison, the challenges begin the moment they step through the guarded gates and into freedom. Finding a home, finding a job, even getting the identification documents you need to transition back into society can prove to be highly difficult for an individual who is coming out of incarceration. And without help, the possibility of recidivism starts to rise. Those being released need a “Fresh Start.” That is exactly what … [Read more...] about Goodwill Helps to Provide a Fresh Start for Ex-Offenders
Don’t You Know Who I Am?
Because we are starting a new year, the idea of New Year’s resolutions comes to mind. Just this week, someone sent me an email and asked if businesses should have New Year’s resolutions just like individuals do. While I have never done this for my companies (with the exception of a financial plan or budget), there are two things that come to mind. If every business and organization were to adopt these Business Resolutions for 2016, it would be a wonderful year. My suggestion resolutions … [Read more...] about Don’t You Know Who I Am?
Flagstaff Real Estate: 2015 Review and 2016 Outlook
Flagstaff real estate experienced a healthy 2015, and 2016 is predicted to continue that upward trend. Let’s take a look at what happened in 2015. The source for the information provided below is the Northern Arizona Multiple Listing Service and is specific to zip codes 86001, 86004 and 86005. At the time of article submission, most recent statistical data is through Dec. 21, 2015. Appreciation: 2015 saw a healthy overall appreciation of 2.7 percent. The median sales price for … [Read more...] about Flagstaff Real Estate: 2015 Review and 2016 Outlook
Looking Back at 2015
What happened in the city in 2015? As a city, did we “move forward?” Did the City Council accomplish anything? Roads Thanks to your approval of an increase in sales tax, we saw a lot of road repairs and resurfacing last summer. You will see more this summer. Underground utilities also. Road Congestion We put together a task force that has to come up with a solution for the congestion on Milton (and a few other points). At least we have started serious … [Read more...] about Looking Back at 2015
Struggling with Dementia: A Difficult Journey
Dementia, a medical term for changes in brain function, is different than age-related memory loss. Age-related changes affect only the memory, not how a person functions. Dementia, however, affects day-to-day function. Even with cues or prompts, a person with dementia may not be able to understand or identify information. Dementia, which has many causes, can present in different ways. It is important for family members to realize the difference between age-related memory loss and dementia, … [Read more...] about Struggling with Dementia: A Difficult Journey
Possibilities in Every Direction
The beginning of each new year provides a perfect opportunity for reflection and planning. It’s a time to revisit goals and priorities…and possibilities. In 2016, we will continue to provide outstanding teaching and learning experiences supported by research and service. After all, these commitments are the very foundation from which we derive solutions to meet the demands of today’s rapidly changing world. We welcome those challenges and face them with integrity, innovation and a determined … [Read more...] about Possibilities in Every Direction
Social Security Changes And Your Retirement Picture
On Nov. 2, President Obama signed into law a budget deal that affects certain Social Security claiming strategies. The changes mainly affected two strategies that helped retirees increase their lifetime benefits: File-and-suspend: A strategy in which one spouse (typically, the higher earner) files and suspends a claim for benefits to allow delayed retirement credits to accrue while enabling the other spouse or a dependent to claim benefits on the higher earner’s … [Read more...] about Social Security Changes And Your Retirement Picture
Considering Flagstaff’s Water Rates
Every five years, the Flagstaff City Council reviews the city’s water rates, which fund the city utility’s daily operations and capital projects such as replacing aging water lines. Here are some important points to consider: With tiered water rates, which reward customers who use water efficiently and discourage waste, Flagstaff residents have done a great job of reducing their consumption of potable water without compromising their quality of life. Some Flagstaff … [Read more...] about Considering Flagstaff’s Water Rates