Originating in Italy, this condiment is an aromatic, thick, dark, syrup-like aged type of vinegar, prepared by the reduction of cooked grapes. Balsamic vinegar, though popularly referred to as wine vinegar, is not made from wine, but is prepared from grape pressings whose fermentation process has been hindered. The best balsamic vinegar is prepared in the hills of Modena, in Italy, where unique and flavorful balsamic vinegar is formed. This vinegar is known to be a cut above the other types … [Read more...] about Balsamic Vinegar is Good for you
Columnists
Time for an Insurance Check-Up
When was the last time you reviewed your insurance coverage? Just as getting an annual medical check-up is a sensible way to maintain your health, reviewing your insurance policies annually can provide peace of mind and may save you money. As you review your policies, here are some questions to keep in mind: Homeowners Insurance Does my coverage keep up with current rebuilding costs? If your home sustains serious damage because of a fire or a severe storm, does your policy cover … [Read more...] about Time for an Insurance Check-Up
‘Bee-neficial’: The Importance of Bees to Your Garden
Mellifera is the hardest working – if somewhat accidental – horticulturist in your garden. In her search for food, she will move from stamens to pistils, pollinating your plants and ensuring their survival. She is responsible for 70 percent of the world’s flowering botanicals and a large number of its fruits and vegetables. It is estimated that one of every three bites of food you take is due to her and those like her. She is, literally, busy as a bee. Apis Mellifera (the scientific … [Read more...] about ‘Bee-neficial’: The Importance of Bees to Your Garden
Embracing Impermanence
A few weeks ago, I came home from work and, much to my dismay, a house was being built on the lot next to us. When I left home that morning, the lot was, as always, vacant, with a magnificent, old tree smack in the middle of the space. Now the tree was gone, little more than a huge pulled stump and a pile of logs. I’m no arborist, but the tree had to be decades old, and now it was gone. Years of growing, giving home to birds, bugs and squirrels, standing tall and firm … gone in between leaving … [Read more...] about Embracing Impermanence
What You Need to Know to Gain Top Dollar for Your Home
It’s being called a “seller’s market” right now. Is it? Kind of. It’s also a buyer’s market right now, too, since there is more inventory. Are you paying a bit more than four years ago? Yes, but there is more to choose from and interest rates are good. No question about it, homes are selling right now. If you are thinking of putting your home out there, here are some things to consider so that you can ask and likely receive top dollar for your home. First and foremost, be realistic about … [Read more...] about What You Need to Know to Gain Top Dollar for Your Home
Building a Great Team
The team is the most important element of a successful business or organization. It is the team that makes the product and services excellent. It is the team that impresses the customers. It is the team that drives your business to achieve what you couldn’t do by yourself. These are lessons I’ve learned since my first days of managing teams; from the small team at a simple concession stand to the large team of highly-skilled professionals on a complicated system implementation project, I have … [Read more...] about Building a Great Team
Breaking Down the Costs of City Services
A few months ago my column was about the cost of the library. I pointed out that the cost is about $50 per year for every citizen, child or adult. Several people have asked me for the same analysis in regards to other city departments – what do they cost per person, per year. Assuming there are 65,000 people in Flagstaff (the 2010 census), here is the cost: Cost Per Person, Per Year Police $266 Fire $163 Community Development $13 Parks & Rec $76 City … [Read more...] about Breaking Down the Costs of City Services
FSO, Avenues of the World Travel Partnering on Cruises
For the third time in three years, Avenues of the World Travel has created a very special fundraiser for the Flagstaff Symphony. Because of our wonderful relationship with AMAWaterways, we are able to offer great options to non-profit organizations in Flagstaff! The Flagstaff Symphony has been taking advantage of these opportunities and to date, has received more than $33,000 in donations. The first trip on AMAWaterways took more than 40 people down the Danube, where travelers got to stroll … [Read more...] about FSO, Avenues of the World Travel Partnering on Cruises
Should You Turn Your Property Into a Vacation Rental?
One of the hottest trends in real estate is leasing investment properties as vacation rentals, providing investors an alternative to traditional long-term rentals and the ability to occasionally utilize the property themselves. Vacation rentals are becoming increasingly popular with consumers seeking properties that suit their particular needs and offer the same amenities as home. Before you turn your property into a vacation rental, however, you should do your homework in order to determine the … [Read more...] about Should You Turn Your Property Into a Vacation Rental?
Practical Advice for Testifying in Litigation
For most people, being called to testify in court or at a deposition is a scary thing. For some, it brings to mind images of brutal cross-examinations in courtroom scenes on TV or in movies. For others, public speaking is terrifying in general, and even more so when the subject matter is personal or emotional. Chances are, at some point in your life, you will have to testify in court or at a deposition. Here are some tips to help you through the process: Know What to Expect Litigation … [Read more...] about Practical Advice for Testifying in Litigation