Northern Arizona's Mountain Living Magazine | Winter 2021

MOUNTAIN NORTHERN ARIZONA’S

MAGAZINE

THOUGHTFUL Local gift ideas for everyone

PLUS Verde Canyon Railroad’s Copper Spike Café focuses on farm-to-table

$2.95

Winter 2020

Watercolor and acrylic artist Greg Hill faces transition Katie King waxes poetic on Flagstaff home bakery

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Northern Arizona’s Mountain Living Magazine

Through Camp Colton, kids Thr gain the positive benefits that come fr from connection to nature.

Continue this legacy of discovery discovery, adventure, learning, and friendship with a gift today today.

A private, personalized expedition across the stars.

It’s stargazing, reimagined.

“Camp Colton was my first field trip away from home and taught me how to be brave and independent. Camp made me care about preserving our wonderful forest home.”

- Zachary 2014 Camp Alumnus You can sustain Camp by directing your AZ School Tax Credit to FUSD and making a tax-deductible donation to Friends. DO BOTH! 1) Direct your AZ School Tax Credit to Camp:

• Go to fusd1.org, choose the $ icon on the right, and click on “Make a donation online today.”

• Choose either FUSD Middle School and click on the Donate button.

• Type CAMP COLTON in the description box and complete the form.

• OR, write a check to Mount Elden or Sinagua Middle School. Write CAMP COLTON in the memo line and mail to: FUSD Tax Credit Program - Camp Colton 3285 E. Sparrow Ave. Flagstaff, AZ 86004

2) Donate to Friends of Camp Colton:

• Go to friendsofcampcolton.org, select Donate Now, and complete the form.

• OR, write a check to Friends and mail to: Friends of Camp Colton P.O. Box 393, Flagstaff, AZ 86002

LIMITED

TIME

ONLY

Now open to small groups with a reservation

Want to learn more about Camp Colton? ton?

Go to friendsofcampcolton.org or call Mary Giannola at 928-527-6109.

lowell.edu/mountainliving winter19 namlm.com

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TABLE of CONTENTS

2020

COVER STORY

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Creatively thoughtful One of the things that makes Flagstaff so unique is the amount of locally owned shops. Many have struggled through the COVID-19 pandemic, but the holiday season presents the perfect opportunity to show your love both to friends and family members and these businesses. From puzzles and books to handmade art and jewelry, you’re guaranteed to find something for everyone on your list without leaving town.

DEPARTMENTS MATTERS of TASTE

MIND & BODY

16 Verde Canyon Railroad aims to create

26 Learn several ways to boost your

BY the BOTTLE

OUTDOOR LIFE

19 Wine isn’t just made for drinking—

28 Just north of Flagstaff, the Old Caves

the ARTS

DISTINCTIVE SPACES

20 Flagstaff artist Greg Hill works through

32 People of all ages can appreciate a

a unique experience on the rails as well as on passengers’ plates through the Copper Spike Café, which focuses on farm-to-table menu items.

cooking with both red and white varietals lends deep flavors to classic dishes.

life’s struggles with watercolor and acrylic images that recall the beauty of nature.

immune system to help fend off attacks from viruses as the weather turns colder and people spend more time in close quarters.

Crater Trail presents a moderate trek up an old cinder cone volcano which ancient Sinaguans called home.

child-like sense of wonder when the home is decorated to welcome Santa Claus.

33 PLAYING FAVORITES

Old Barrel Tea Company, one of downtown Flagstaff’s newest shops, offers a variety of teas, mugs and other unique gifts just in time for the holiday season.

35 SPOTLIGHT

Photo by MacKenzie Chase.

ALSO 6

EDITOR’S NOTES

7 ABOUT TOWN

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Northern Arizona’s Mountain Living Magazine

ON THE COVER

MOUNTAIN NORTHERN ARIZONA’S

MAGAZINE

EDITOR MacKenzie Chase mchase@azdailysun.com 928.556.2262

PUBLISHER & ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Colleen Brady 928.556.2279

Northern Arizona’s Mountain Living Magazine is published quarterly at 1751 S. Thompson St. | Flagstaff, AZ 86001

SALES CONTRIBUTORS Zachary Meier Lydia Smith

Northern Arizona’s Mountain Living Magazine is published by

ISSN: 1534-3804

Copyright ©2020 Northern Arizona’s Mountain Living Magazine. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, illustrations and other materials are invited, but will not be returned unless accompanied by a properly addressed envelope bearing sufficient postage. Publisher assumes no responsibility for lost materials or the return of unsolicited materials. Publisher assumes no responsibility for any materials, solicited or unsolicited, after six months from date of publication. Cover and entire contents of this publication are fully protected. Reproduction or use without prior written premission from the editor is strictly prohibited. Northern Arizona’s Mountain Living Magazine is not responsible for scheduled event changes. Any views, opinions or suggestions contained within Northern Arizona’s Mountain Living Magazine are not necessarily those of the management or owners.

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EDITOR’S NOTES

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hen COVID-19 cases began rising in northern Arizona and businesses shut their doors so they could figure out how best to implement safety measures, something beautiful happened. I remember neighbors offering to pick up food and grocery orders for each other. People voting to “Shop local” with their dollars. Kind words exchanged on signs and in Facebook groups to essential workers keeping the city going while many transitioned to working from home.

Still, some local businesses weren’t able to make it. Starrlight Books closed its doors permanently, an empty storefront left in its place. On the east side of town, Mamma Luisa Italian Restaurant no longer serves hungry crowds. The crawl of tourism hasn’t been kind to these businesses that rely on Flagstaff ’s often bustling summer and fall months.

As we approach the holiday season, we all must vote to “Shop local” again. Keep as much of your money in the community when shopping for yourself and loved ones rather than giant companies like Amazon. It’s the least we can do to ensure the character of Flagstaff survives beyond the pandemic.

I’ve found comfort in poetry and art throughout this time, reminders that there are still beautiful things to enjoy when all else seems to do nothing but fall apart. The following is one such celebration of what nature and life have to offer. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

Thanks for reading,

MacKenzie Chase mchase@azdailysun.com

A Winter Bluejay

By Sara Teasdale Crisply the bright snow whispered, Crunching beneath our feet; Behind us as we walked along the parkway, Our shadows danced, Fantastic shapes in vivid blue.

Across the lake the skaters Flew to and fro, With sharp turns weaving A frail invisible net.

In ecstasy the earth Drank the silver sunlight; In ecstasy the skaters Drank the wine of speed; In ecstasy we laughed Drinking the wine of love.

Had not the music of our joy Sounded its highest note?

But no, For suddenly, with lifted eyes you said, “Oh look!”

There, on the black bough of a snow flecked maple, Fearless and gay as our love, A bluejay cocked his crest!

Oh who can tell the range of joy Or set the bounds of beauty?

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Northern Arizona’s Mountain Living Magazine

ABOUT TOWN

Favorites of the season from the area’s art and entertainment offerings

DEC. 3-6 & DEC. 10-13 CRAFTS GALORE Museum of Northern Arizona, 3101 N. Fort Valley Road Shoppers bundled for the weather will be able to visit the Museum of Northern Arizona campus and stroll from shop to shop in the wintery fresh air during an outdoor and distanced Winter Market featuring Native artists. Attendees can meet the artists and find unique jewelry, baskets, pottery, weavings and other handcrafted items. Not only is this a great opportunity to find the perfect holiday gift, it is also an important opportunity to support local Native artists whose income has been impacted by the pandemic. Learn more about some of the artists to be featured in the cover story, beginning on page 8. www. musnaz.org

DEC. 18-31

ONGOING WATER IS LIFE Coconino Center for the Arts, 2300 N. Fort Valley Road Water is a precious resource necessary for all life, yet access is not equal. In preparation for the Flagstaff Arts Council’s ongoing exhibit “Parched: The Art of Water in the Southwest,” nine artists from across Arizona attended a number of workshops and field trips to discuss water from environmental, cultural and climate perspectives before taking what they experienced and turning it into something that conveys the urgency presented by climate change. Reservations are required for admission to the free exhibit, which will remain on display until Jan 9, 2021. www.flagartscouncil.org

LAND OF SWEETS Online at www.flagstaffsymphony.org

An American holiday tradition since the 1960s, performances of “The Nutcracker” are a go-to for many dance companies and orchestras. This year, the Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra will present “The Nutcracker” ballet in the virtual realm. Dancers from Northern Arizona Community Music and Dance Academy, led by Andrew Needhammer, accompany the beloved music of Peter Tchaikovsky and bring to life this classic winter tale. Purchase of a $25 ticket will grant access to the filmed performance for 72 hours. Visit www.flagstaffsymphony.org for more information.

ONGOING TOP-TIER STARGAZING Lowell Observatory, 1400 W. Mars Hill Road With the days getting shorter and shorter leading up to the winter solstice, these long nights present a great opportunity for stargazing and Lowell Observatory is offering private VIP access as part of its phased reopening plan. Groups of up to 10 cohabitating or cotraveling guests can reserve 75 or 90-minute stargazing experiences during which experts share stories of how stars formed and show the best of what the night sky has to offer. www.lowell.edu winter19 namlm.com

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THOUGHTFUL Local gift ideas for everyone

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Northern Arizona’s Mountain Living Magazine

‌S THE STAFF

mall businesses across America have been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. As shopping restrictions have been put in place and many residents still don’t feel comfortable doing extraneous in-person shopping, local businesses have found themselves getting creative in selling their goods.

One of the best ways to support the local business community is by purchasing items from local artisans and restaurants, even if just for curb-side pickup and takeout or delivery meals.

Some of the most talented people in Flagstaff are artisans creating handmade—and often customizable—gifts for people on your shopping list.

Many craftspeople partner with some of the following local businesses to sell their products to a wider audience.

Flagstaff is overflowing with options when it comes to checking names of your list.

Stop by any of the following shops for gifts family and loved ones of any age will appreciate. And the businesses will appreciate it, too.

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Jack’s Antique 4650 N. US-89 www.jacksantique.com

Arizona Handmade Gallery 20 N. San Francisco St. www.azhandmade.com Early this year in February, Flagstaff staple Arizona Handmade Gallery celebrated its new location in the former home of Puchteca Indian Goods. A mainstay of the community for almost 30 years, husband and wife team George Averbeck and Holly Gramm purchased Arizona Handmade in 2010, combining it with Averbeck’s glass blowing studio, Fire on the Mountain.

Carrying on the legacy of Puchteca owner Steve Beiser, Gramm has worked to maintain relationships with Native artists to continue displaying their work along with other local vendors in the gallery. Upon entering the well-lit shop, sunlight glinting off Averbeck’s handmade vases and wine glasses draw visitors to the left. Swirls of color blend together to create oneof-a-kind glassware shoppers won’t be able to find at big box stores. Throughout the rest of the expansive gallery, dainty jewelry and culturally important Indigenous pottery can be found, all just waiting for their new homes where they can be appreciated for the works 10 Northern Arizona’s Mountain Living Magazine

Not all gifts need to be brand new. For some, the ideal gift to receive is something that carries a story. Jack’s Antique in the Flagstaff Mall is a must-see when shopping for people like that. Owned by Jack and Vivian Delaporte, Jack’s Antique stocks the best of Native pottery and rugs from years past as well as nostalgic collector’s items like Coca-Cola and Mickey Mouse merchandise. Jewelry, photographs, china sets, musical instruments, sculptures and more that have stood the test of time fill the spacious shop, with many items on sale at a reduced price and payment plans available. Gift cards are also an option.

As the website puts it, “In a world of disposable mass produced stuff, it’s surprisingly affordable to decorate our lives with quality pieces that encourage us to a life of grace and appreciation.”

Crystal Magic 1 N. San Francisco St. www.crystalmagic.com On the corner of San Francisco Street and Route 66 in downtown Flagstaff, Crystal Magic beckons passersby in to browse the glittering crystals on display in the windows. Touted as the premier stop for New Age gifts, crystals, incense, amethyst, quartz, druzy aura and more, the shop—which was established in Sedona in 1986 before expanding north—is family owned and operated, and strives to provide customers with a personal and human experience whether shopping online or in person.

Singing bowls line the east windowed wall along with a wide selection of incense. Loose gems of all colors and sizes are available for a wide variety of uses and books on crystals, dream interpretation, aromatherapy, auras and more line the back wall. The shop is a veritable feast for the eyes with something for anyone interested in the potential for alternative healing or even people who just have an appreciation for the beauty of gems and minerals..

A hands-on gift idea includes break-your-own geodes.

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Museum of Northern Arizona 3101 N. Fort Valley Road www.musnaz.org The Museum of Northern Arizona was founded by Harold S. Colton and Mary-Russell Ferrell Colton in 1928 to protect and preserve the natural and cultural heritage of northern Arizona through research, collections, conservation and education. More than a decade later, the museum remains a landmark institution dedicated to working alongside Indigenous populations of the Colorado Plateau to ensure healthy relationships. Just a quick peek into the gift shop and the support is clear. From Navajo blankets sourced directly from the artists to unique handcrafted jewelry and holiday decorations, MNA’s gift shop offers a little bit of everything for the Southwest enthusiast.

Shoppers can get an even more personal experience with the upcoming Winter Market held on the museum campus the first two weekends of December. The socially distanced market will see select Native artists such as Jonah Hill—whose jewelry is featured on page 7—set up in small cabins while visitors enjoy the crisp, winter air. See About Town on page 7 for times and more information.

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Olive the Best 18 E. Birch Ave. www.olivethebest.com The family-owned Olive the Best began almost by necessity. Scott McPeak and his son Scotty bought the olive oil shop in 2018 after McPeak Sr. turned to healthy eating to combat weight-related diabetes. He came across an olive oil store in Bisbee and discovered how delicious simple eating could be. The Flagstaff tasting room offers a wide variety of ultra premium olive oils perfect for use as an Italian bread dipper, pasta dressing, meat marinade, a healthy alternative to butter and more. Unique flavors of balsamic vinegars, like blood orange and blackberry ginger, are fit for drizzling on fruit, ice cream and cheese or mixing into water for healthy flavored water.

Pre-packaged gift sets make shopping for loved ones easy, whether it’s the Tuscany four-pack, which includes Tuscan herb olive oil, traditional 18-year aged balsamic, garlic olive oil and Neapolitan herb balsamic, or the Sweet Tooth fourpack, made up of dark chocolate balsamic, blood orange olive oil, cranberry pear balsamic and Persian lime olive oil. Custom gift sets are also available for purchase in store or online.

EMERGENCY CLINIC

OPEN AT OUR NEW LOCATION 1110 E. RT. 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001.

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Lowell Observatory’s Starry Skies Shop 1400 W. Mars Hill Road www.lowell.edu The night sky has beckoned to humans for millennia. Historic Lowell Observatory aims to further ignite that curiosity in young and old space fans alike. Outside of VIP stargazing experiences offered during the observatory’s phased re-opening, The Starry Skies Shop is available as a pop-up as well as online ordering to fulfill the gift needs of family members and loved ones, providing fun ways to keep our minds exploring what is possible beyond Earth while we spend more time at home than ever during the COVID-19 pandemic.

From telescopes and STEM kits to books, puzzles and more, let Lowell’s Starry Skies Shop inspire a little bit of wonder this holiday season.

Old Barrel Tea Company 21 N. San Francisco St., www.oldbarreltea.com The women-run Old Barrel Tea Company was opened by matriarch Dana Huffmon and her daughters Bailey, Paola and Nenada in 2015 as a way to promote tea as something more than just a flavorful drink. A three-time cancer survivor, Dana stands by the effects of white tea for helping her get through treatments. Now, she wants to share the benefits with everyone else.

Flagstaff marks Old Barrel’s seventh location, which opened downtown this past summer, joining cities like Cloudcroft and Albuquerque in New Mexico, and Durango and Golden in Colorado. Tea varieties boast a number of health benefits, like increased focus for black tea, or relief from headaches and fatigue with pu erh tea. But Old Barrel’s

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offerings don’t stop at tea. Essential oils, spices, raw honey—which also boasts a number of health benefits like antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that can help fight acne, sooth sore throats and reduce inflammation—jewelry and other gift items can be purchased from the small shop as well. Each location strives to stock items from local vendors to better reflect its community’s interests. There’s sure to be something fit for even the hardest-toshop-for friends and family members here.

ZANI Cards & Gifts 107 W. Phoenix Ave. www.zanigifts.com If the name wasn’t enough of a giveaway, ZANI Cards & Gifts has a wide selection of unique gifts and handcrafted cards that won’t be found at the typical greeting card rack. Nestled next to Biff’s Bagels, the small storefront hides an expansive shop that leaves plenty of room for social distancing while shoppers pick out items guaranteed to leave a smile on their loved ones’ faces. Complimentary gift wrapping is also offered to help make the holiday season as stressfree as possible.

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MATTERS OF TASTE

Ride the tracks with style Verde Canyon Railroad’s Copper Spike Café emphasizes farm-to-table offerings

A

GAIL G. COLLINS

s the train pushed forward and chuffed, the children squealed with glee and waved to those on the platform. Riders from 2 to 92 years old who have never lost their wonder are bound on a Magical Christmas Journey with the man in red himself, traveling on Santa’s magical tracks to the North Pole in Verde Canyon. Specialty treats, like cotton candy, funnel cakes and sugared nuts, add to the joy.

Verde Canyon Railroad has a reputation for providing exceptional adventures in a classy fashion only a ride on the rails can provide. In less than four hours, travelers pass through 110 years of history on “Arizona’s longest-running nature show.” Take an excursion to enjoy the fall foliage or toast Ales on Rails with Arizona craft beers and brats, or break out the binoculars for the 16 Northern Arizona’s Mountain Living Magazine

If you go The Verde Canyon Railroad is located at 300 N. Broadway in Clarkdale. Visit www.verdecanyonrr.com for more information.

Wild Splendor and Eagle Watch.

Onboard, choose any one of four classes of comfort in meticulously restored cars pulled by powerful FP7 locomotives built for the Alaska Railroad in 1953.

These iron horses received an update last year and now display the American bald eagle with

distinctive glory.

The train’s heritage is intertwined, like its iron links, joining the past and present. In 1912, as Arizona became a state, the railroad hauled mining materials, but by 1953, a diverse mix of products and people rode the train. In fact, its celebrated history includes

transporting concrete from Clarkdale to build Glen Canyon Dam. Dave Durbano bought the line in 1988, and after his first ride through unspoiled wilderness, he proclaimed it a treasure and began an excursion service a couple years later. Since then, 30 million passengers have traveled the Verde Canyon Railroad.

Still, no rail journey is complete without stylish food and drink. The Copper Spike Café provides quality meals both at the depot and on the train.

Southwest favorites, daily specials and seasonal goods in hot and cold entrees suited to travel for lighter or heartier appetites are available.

Kitchen Manager Bri Lawton, a Cottonwood gal born and bred, has established connections with local growers. With 16 years of food experience and a powerful passion for change, she has revamped and upgraded the menu choices and resources.

“I’m a strong believer in farm-to-table and fresh food,” Lawton said. “Just because we’re a quick-paced café, doesn’t mean that our food can’t be bursting with flavor, beautiful to look at and healthy.”

Blazin’ M Ranch, a dormant chuckwagon dinner and show venue, leases its riparian environment to produce quality produce.

Luke Hammond runs Liquid Life Farms there growing tomatoes, watermelon, squash, corn, spring greens and seasonal vegetables. Working along the same riverbed as the railroad, his farm stand sells out daily. Eric Kostecki of Sweet Greens Arizona grows 50 types of micro greens. These sprouted seedlings provide dense nutrition through vitamins, phytonutrients, living enzymes and antioxidants.

“That extra step in picking and planning goes a long way, and people can tell the difference between food that’s made with love and thought, versus food that’s simply assembled,” Lawton said.

The Copper Spike Grilled Cheese is not your granny’s recipe. Made with Swiss cheese, bacon, jalapeno and house made jam on thick-cut sourdough, the result is smoky sweet and melty marvelous. The Switchmen Turkey Sandwich handcrafts turkey breast, Provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato and onion on marbled rye. The Smokestack Pulled Pork employs pork smoked in banana leaves to retain moisture, tossed in vinegary barbecue sauce and served on a brioche bun with coleslaw. The Roundhouse Salad blends local lettuce, arugula, broccoli and basil with Parmesan cheese, olives, turkey and pumpkin seeds, dressed with ranch or balsamic vinaigrette.

The menu remixes for Christmas, offering such items as the Sleigh Bell Wings or Tenders, Scrooge Gourmet Grilled Cheese plus some seasonal additions—Mistletoe Cran-

berry Chicken Salad Sandwich, St. Nick Monte Cristo Sandwich and Bah Humbug Steak Sandwich.

Add a caboose to your meal with a cocoa brownie, rich in chocolate with a mousse quality and strawberry whip to dip. Everything is prepared on site for consumption, serving 150 meals daily at the cafe and 200 trays on the train.

Verde Canyon Railroad continually improves its grounds, experience, venues and more annually. From Arizona author Roger Naylor’s baritone narration sharing insights on the platform, storyboards describing area history, John Bell’s Museum filled with legacy items, increased patio and beers on tap, artisan wares in an eclectic gift shop or the Copper Spike Cafe’s sourcing and menu, it’s about pleasing people. That’s why employees always wave off the train. Verde Canyon Railroad reminds their guests in so many ways: It’s always a good day when you’re on a train.

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MATTERS OF TASTE

FARM-TO-TABLE

S

erving locally grown food is becoming more popular at restaurants like the Copper Spike Café and even in some schools.

Farm-to-table service usually means the restaurant or school got the food directly from the producer itself through a direct sale, a community-supported agriculture arrangement, a farmers market or other direct distribution.

Why Farm-to-Table In 2012, local and regional food systems, including farmto-table agriculture and food service, totaled $6.1 billion in sales. Farm-to-table food isn’t just more fresh, but it also cuts down on transportation and refrigeration costs.

Local and regional food systems improve the vitality of 18 Northern Arizona’s Mountain Living Magazine

FOOD

communities by keeping food dollars local and working for small businesses, like farms, according to the Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education program, a division of the USDA.

Read the Labels It’s important to remember that there’s no universal, regulated definition for farm-totable foods. Your best bet is to look at the label, which should list which producer the food is from and where the producer is located. Look for producers and processors that are close to northern Arizona for the freshest taste.

Since farm-to-table is

growing in popularity, many stores and restaurants see locally produced food as something to brag about. You can also ask your server or store manager; they’ll be happy to point you to their favorite local products.

Finding local food goes beyond the supermarket and the restaurant. You can also source local food from cooperatives, community-supported agriculture, farmers markets and food hubs. Many local farmers markets even accept SNAP, WIC and other food benefits. While the Flagstaff Community Market has ended for the winter, the Sedona Community Farmers Market

continues to host vendors each Sunday from noon-4 p.m. until May 2, 2021. Visit sedona-farmers-market.com for more information.

Farm-to-School School purchasing is a powerful support for farmers and ranchers able to tap into that network. The National Farm to School Network says that in 2013-14, schools spent $789 million on local food. The organization says these connections give students access to healthy, local foods and provide education opportunities such as farm trips, cooking lessons and school gardens.

The USDA also supports farmto-school programs with close to $8 million in grants in 201920. These grants were sent to 5,400 schools and reached 3.4 million students.

BY the BOTTLE

COOKING

WITH WINE

W

ine isn’t just for pouring with a finished dish. The right variety can add depth and flavor to a variety of sweet and savory dishes. Here are three quick tips for cooking with wine.

Choose a wine you’d drink. While it’s tempting to skimp on a wine you’re going to put into a pot with other ingredients, a bottle that you have to choke down on its own won’t do your dish any favors. Go with one you’d enjoy on its own. That doesn’t have to mean expensive, though. Ask the wine expert at your local grocery or liquor store for

reasonably priced bottles that will enhance your recipe.

Simmer down. The wine should cook down with your dish, imparting flavor and moisture as most of the alcohol cooks off. Good examples are bold reds added to a spaghetti sauce or chicken roasted in white wine.

When in doubt, color code. A good rule of thumb is that lighter colored wines should go with more delicate foods like seafood and chicken while more boldly flavored reds can go with darker foods with bigger flavors like red meat and anything spicy.

Roasted Chicken With Potatoes       

4 Yukon gold potatoes 1 tablespoon olive oil Rosemary, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste 4-6 chicken thighs 1 cup white wine 4-6 tablespoons of butter

Wash and cube the potatoes and arrange in the bottom of a casserole dish.

Drizzle with olive oil and toss lightly to coat. Sprinkle with rosemary, salt and pepper. Pour the white wine over the potatoes.

Arrange the chicken thighs on top and put a pat of butter atop each thigh. Season again with salt and pepper.

Cover the dish with foil and bake in a 350-degree oven for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and cook until chicken is brown and crisp and the juices run clear.

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the ARTS

The A work of art

‌W

NATALIE EICKMEYER

ell it goes like this The fourth, the fifth, the minor fall and the major lift The baffled king composing Hallelujah…

As we sang the words to Leonard Cohen’s song together, driving down the windy Snow Bowl Road, the aspens stretched their arms into the golden grand finale of fall in Flagstaff. I knew this was a moment that really counted.

Though life for cherished local watercolor artist Greg Hill has often been a frightening walk through the woods of the mind, this past year has taken the cake. On top of the global pandemic and general uncertainty this world has been facing, Hill

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Bear

has been bravely confronting the harrowing disorder known as dementia. Once a master of detail and realism, dementia has taken a toll not only on his cognitive function and daily life, but his art. The capacity for larger paintings has begun to wane and not for lack of talent but an inevitable part of the decline of this devastating disease. Despite this, his family says his paintings are more colorful and expressive than ever.

While sitting together in pews that line the earthen floor of The Chapel of The Holy Dove, Hill began telling me his story. I have had the privilege of spending time with him recently and was amazed to hear about his life. While driving up the San Francisco Peaks and discussing the weirdness of the

mind, that brilliant gold (unique to northern Arizona) would reveal itself lining the curves of our mountain road. With every peek of color, the sound of awe swept through the car as we marveled at the beauty painted by God herself, the beauty Hill translates in

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For more information Greg Hill’s numerous works of art are on display at The Artists’ Gallery, 17 N. San Francisco St., where he has been showcasing his paintings for the past 17 years, some of which were created after this year’s dementia diagnosis. Visit www.theflagstaffartistsgallery.com for more information.

his own paintings.

With careful attention to how his subject breathes and is touched by the light, his brush strokes emanate the wonder within. He honors what heals him by preserving that moment of exaltation. The petals and leaves will inevitably fall but become forever retrievable when he captures the moment of glory that heals a hurting soul.

Early in life Hill was criticized for his interest in art. A peer commented once that choosing an art class over playing football was “sissy.” These words made an impression upon the young boy who held a bright artistic flame within and they left quite a mark. It took him 32 years to return to the craft he is known for now—time he often feels was lost. During an age when people’s general regard for what it meant to be masculine was much different, he had to find other forms of artistic expression that were more socially acceptable, like leather making and drumming, which he still does to this day.

Yet the initial hurt of those words took time to transform into the dedication for painting he displayed later in life.

Hill spent his childhood in Roswell, New Mexico, until he departed for college in Las Cruces where he studied engineering. He was active in school growing up as valedictorian and captain of the basketball team.

To his surprise, he found him-

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self recalling those titles after a run-in with the Santa Fe police in his early 20s.

“How could someone like me end up in jail for being a harm to myself and others?” Hill wondered. This question was the beginning of a lifetime searching for answers and waiting for a roaring train to pass, that never would.

The mind of an artist is a relentless creature that never sleeps, refusing to wait for convenient moments to appear.

The same can be said of mental illness.

After this short stint in jail following his first manic episode, Hill was diagnosed with bipolar disorder. He remembers the time he cried out alone in his room, “Lord, why me? Why is this happening?” not knowing at the time that it would mark the beginning of a lifelong journey navigating the waves of mental illness.

It’s not a cry that you hear at night It’s not somebody who’s seen the light It’s a cold and it’s a broken Hallelujah…

Imagine for a moment your worst day, the chaos within your body and the feeling of holding on for dear life as you wait out the storm. For those who live with bipolar disorder, dementia or any kind of mental illness, it is a waiting room that can never be left, where sometimes the only

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thing to hold onto is a paintbrush. For Hill, a lifeline.

After finishing graduate school, Hill attended martial arts classes in a Santa Fe dojo, where he met his wife Mo Russell. He jokingly confessed, “I had a chance with her because none of the other guys had jobs. She kinda liked that I did.” The two were married in 1982 and later welcomed sons Jesse and Josh into the world. Mo’s undying support for his artistry has been essential to Hill’s success. From helping to haul equipment to craft shows to supporting him through the waves of mental illness, Mo said she feels that while “making art is messy, it’s important to honor the artist, even the manic one.”

During the early years of family life, Hill worked in engineering but always made time to give back to his community. As an International Literacy Volunteer, he tutored Saudi Arabian youth and served on a governor-appointed board advocating for mentally ill people in treatment, demonstrating a passion for understanding the human condition and helping others get through life. Having been through the wringer himself, it would seem part of how he heals is by helping pave the path

for others to walk instead of getting lost.

After moving to Arizona for work, the Hill family landed in Flagstaff where Greg and Mo still reside today.

After decades of succumbing to external pressures not to paint, Hill picked up his brush and palette in 1990 and started the march to artistic freedom. While his children attended grade school, he was finally giving life to that which had called on him since childhood. In 2005 Hill retired from doing pipeline safety work at El Paso Natural Gas to pursue his love of painting. Although long a promising talent, he still faced the challenge of finding that place where one can say, It’s good enough, I did enough. I am enough, a balancing act for even the most proficient of artists, an exercise in holding on and letting go. For a man who has struggled greatly behind the scenes, has overcome the depths of pain and is willing to share that truth with the rest of us, many who know the artist would agree he is more than enough.

Known for his bright and colorful paintings of flowers, an image of an iris won Hill the Member’s Choice Award from Northern Arizona’s Watercolor Society in 2015. He has always had a spiritual

connection with nature. He describes the red-tailed hawk as one of his “power animals,” along with the polar bear, which elicited one of his most remarkable and repeated paintings. His youngest son Josh, who has pursued art himself, gives credit to his dad for having the courage to follow his own passions.

When discussing Hill’s art, Josh exclaimed, “My dad is the polar bear.”

A wandering polar bear is elusive, unique, mighty, adaptable, powerful. Hill often carries a cherished bear claw in his “trusty palm” as he says, to absorb the strength it holds within. The simplicity of his art is that by honoring what he loves, he gives us a glimpse into the moments that saved him.

Through the years, much time was spent learning his art under skilled painters such as Charles Reid, a world-renowned master of watercolor. Dear friend and artistic mentor Roberta Rogers shared that, “as a student, Greg was focused and willing to learn. He is a gentleman and a scholar who is passionate and grounded in his profession.” Beyond the innate talent he possesses, the vibrant color used in his paintings is what she found most stunning, as do many other admirers of his work.

While making his own art, Hill has also thrived in Flagstaff as a teacher, mentor, supporter and true explorer of art. From instructing art classes at Coconino Community College to teaching inmates literacy at our local jail and appearing as a recurring pop-up artist at Flagstaff ’s Art in The Park, Hill has seemingly done it all.

He even squeezed in time to join a Spanish feminist book club for a decade—as the only male member.

Another hobby has been Indigenous drumming, which he and Mo have enjoyed since the ‘80s. These days, passersby can likely find Hill hanging out at Buffalo Park with the local Brazilian drumming group, Sambataque. The multifaceted artist has been an invaluable member to this community, and his love of life and learning has been as vivid as his paints. winter19 namlm.com

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MIND and BODY

Boost your The immune system uses antibodies, cells and other things to help your body fight off harmful germs and infections that enter your body.

Wearing protective equipment can protect yourself from some harmful germs and viruses but they might still find their way to you.

Infections and germs spread from person to person via droplets sneezed or coughed in the air, or by mucus that gets onto your hands and surfaces. Germs and infections getting into your body may be inevitable, but there are precautions you can take to boost your immune system.

Live a Healthy Lifestyle Many products claim they can boost your immunity but that makes little sense scientifically. Your immune system is made 26 Northern Arizona’s Mountain Living Magazine

up of many cells that respond to a variety of different germs and microbes in your body. The body is constantly creating immune cells and producing too many may be harmful for the good bacteria and cells in your body.

The immune system requires balance and harmony to function properly. Living a healthy lifestyle can help to keep your immune system strong and healthy.

Healthy Choices As we said before there are no remedies or over the counter products that can provenly increase your immune system.

Your immune system requires balance and healthy lifestyle choices to function properly. If you wish to boost or maintain your immune health then you should choose healthier lifestyle choices such as

not smoking, eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables, maintaining a healthy weight, washing hands frequently and exercising regularly.

Facts of Immune Health Ginseng and echinacea could be one of the few remedies that may help to improve immune health. People try other products such as probiotics to boost immune health and supplementing the friendly bacteria in your body may be helpful, but scientists are still learning what will or won’t truly be effective in increasing your immune health. Sometimes taking too much vitamin C, probiotics or immune products can be harmful to your body. Scientists have seen that maintaining a healthy lifestyle will get you the right amount of vitamins you need in your body.

Sleep Matters When it comes to your immune health, sleep can also play an important role in how your immune system performs.

Getting too much sleep doesn’t seem like it will prevent you from getting sick, but too little sleep has shown to negatively affect a person’s immune system. Making sure you get good quality sleep during the winter months can help give you a better fighting chance against the cold or flu.

Cytokine Production and Sleep

The Sleepfoundation.org says that, without sufficient sleep, your body makes fewer cytokines, a type of protein that targets infection and inflammation, effectively creating an immune response. Cytokines are produced and released during sleep; if you aren’t sleeping you’re losing out.

The Sleep Foundation recommends getting at least seven to eight hours of sleep to avoid getting sick and staying healthy. Sleeping seven to eight hours a night will also help fight other health issues including heart disease, diabetes and obesity.

Naps are the Best If you are a health care worker or work in a profession that

works nights, long hours or odd shifts and you feel you aren’t getting adequate sleep, then naps are the best next thing for you. The Sleep Foundation says taking two naps that are no longer than 30 minutes each – one in the morning and one in the afternoon – has been shown to help decrease stress and offset the negative effects that sleep deprivation has on the immune system. If you are unable to sleep for a half-hour during the workday, sleep for 20 minutes during your lunch break and another right before you eat dinner.

temperature between 60-67 degrees could help.

Another way to help you fall asleep is by making your room completely dark and turning

on some relaxing music. Research has shown that darkness boosts the production of melatonin, the hormone essential for sleep.

What Makes you Sleep Good sleep is important to your health and immune health. If you find yourself having a hard time falling asleep, there are some tricks and things you can do to help you fall asleep.

Lowering the temperature in your bedroom can help you fall asleep. Your body temperature changes and cools when you lie down. Setting your room

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Winter 2020 namlm.com

27

OUTDOOR life

OLD CAVES CRATER TRAIL

A GREAT PLACE TO DWELL 28 Northern Arizona’s Mountain Living Magazine

SAM MCMANIS

‌Editor’s note: This article originally ran November 2019 in the Arizona Daily Sun. Old Caves Crater Trail provides a great introduction to northern Arizona hiking trails without requiring too much physical stamina.

‘I

t piques the imagination to stand among the remnants and muse about making a life in this challenging land-

scape …”

— Kiosk at Old Caves Crater Trailhead So ridiculously expensive are current Flagstaff housing prices that, well, living in a cave might just be a viable option for first-time buyers.

This thought came to me as I crouched into one of the numerous grottoes that dot the apex of a cinder cone of one of Flagstaff’s many wondrous volcanic extrusions.

Granted, I was winded at the time and not thinking straight, having

just ascended to the summit of the Old Caves Crater Trail, overlooking Doney Park.

But, really, the cave I had entered to catch my breath was fairly nice, as caves go.

Excellent floor plan, about the size of a walk-in closet. A side room to crawl through that would make a perfect office. The décor, admittedly a bit too beige, was tasteful and understated. Best of all, it faced east, which meant it caught the morning sun to warm and afternoon shadows to keep things cool. And the views?

Breathtaking, with Mount Elden and the San Francisco Peaks to the southwest, O’Leary Peak and Sunset Crater to the northeast, the expansive view of Doney Park all around. Sure, there’s no water source, but you can’t have everything now, can you?

Given the current real estate bubble, I figured a place like this would sell in the low $300,000s. And, better

still, no monthly homeowners’ fees— yet. Give the dwellings a fancy name, say, “The Lofts at Old Cave Crater,” and it would sell out pronto, for sure.

I jest, of course. The U.S. Forest Service no doubt would frown upon developing such a geologic wonder, no matter how stressed the housing market gets. But forgive me for the extended riff, because the trailhead informational board provided by the Department of Agriculture makes a guy wonder what living in such lofty domiciles was like for the Sinaguan settlers, circa early 14th century.

Archaeologists have determined that, at one time, there were as many as 70 to 80 “rooms” at the pueblo and, down-slope near the cone’s base, they “located what they believe to be the site of a meso-American ‘ball court.’” (What, no Jacuzzi and health club?)

Cave exploration is only one reason to venture a few miles north of

SAM MCMANIS

The view from inside looking out of a spacious cave at the top of Old Caves Crater in Doney Park.

Winter 2020 namlm.com

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Old Caves Crater Old Caves Crater Trail/Loop Trail Distance: 7 miles (Old Caves Summit Trail, twice, plus Loop Trail); 2.8 miles (Old Caves Trail to summit, out-and-back) Driving Directions: From Flagstaff, take Highway 89 north to Silver Saddle Road, turn right.

Trailhead will be on the left a half-mile east on Silver Saddle.

The Route: From the trailhead, head north of Old Caves Summit Trail, wending through te switchbacks to a “T” intersection. Go right to visit the old caves. Go left to the summit in another 0.3 miles. For the shorter option, retrace steps to the trailhead. For the 7-mile option, descend down the north side of the summit trail, turn left (east) on the Loop Trail. Follow the Loop around the base of the cone to the intersection of the Old Cacves Trail. Turn left as if returning to the trailhead, but turn right at the sign marked West Loop. Follow that 1.5 miles to the north junction with the Old Caves Summit Trail. Go right to the summit and then down the switchbacks back to the trailhead.

Elevation gain: Short course 520 feet; long course 1,082 feet.

Highest Elevation: 7,168 feet.

30 Northern Arizona’s Mountain Living Magazine

Flagstaff on Highway 89 for a leisurely run or hike at Old Caves Crater.

Both the trails to the summit and the loop around the base of the cinder cone are wide and smooth, made up of crushed volcanic cinder—a welcome break for one’s feet compared to the rocky and root-laden trails on the mountain proper. The footing is almost FUTS-like, except for some sandy sections around the west end of the loop and some rocks along the northern section of the vertically-challenging trail to the summit. The 1.3-mile trek from the trailhead at Silver Saddle Road to the “T” intersection that separates the caves to the south to the summit to the north is a surprisingly pleasant jaunt, considering you gain 540 feet in the process.

Rarely are switchbacks so well-manicured and free of obstacles.

As for attractions along the way, you pass through the Fort Valley Experimental Forest area, which provides much-needed shade on sunny afternoons. The foliage changes as you progress: from ponderosa pines to pinons to gnarled junipers to scrubby shrubs near the peak. The pebbly black cinder underfoot also morphs into powdery red near the summit, the result of centuries of erosion.

As for running or hiking routes, there are only a few options. Most people, interested primarily in the caves or the views from the summit, simply do a 2.8-miles out-and-back. And that’s a

mile stretch is probably the least bucolic section, running parallel with Highway 89 and passing a few homes along the way.

At the intersection, you have the choice of continuing the loop back or turning sharply right for a multi-switchback climb back up to the summit for a 7-mile total trip.

I chose the latter option, mainly because I wanted to check out more of the caves.

On my second pass through, I spotted an even more spacious living space, complete with a mother-in-law apartment—or short-term rental space, if you prefer—carved out in the back. Never mind the graffiti on that one wall.

The place is a fixer-upper and some sweat equity will take care of that.

fine, invigorating jaunt.

An alternative, though, is to take in all 7 miles of the trail system. I did that by taking the Old Caves Summit Trail from the Silver Saddle trailhead over the summit and down the north side to its intersection with the Loop Trail. (If you keep going straight for another 0.4 of a mile, you will hit the other trailhead, lovingly called Dump Road.)

If you go right, clockwise, on the Loop Trail to the east, you’ll be treated to more pine viewing of a rolling path along the base of the cinder cone. When you hit the intersection with the Old Caves Summit Trail, you turn left and start back toward the trailhead, only to make a right at a sign denoting the West Loop. This 1.5-

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31

DISTINCTIVE SPACES

Prepare

your home for

W

ith young children in the home, winter brings the excitement of Christmas and the anticipation of the man in the red suit.

Get in the spirit by tapping into your childlike wonder and preparing your home for the arrival of Santa. Of course, as an adult, the season requires serious attention to detail to ensure the holiday is accident-free.

The National Fire Protection Association reports that between 2013-17, an average of 160 home fires were caused by a Christmas tree. Electrical distribution or lighting equipment was responsible for at least 44% of these incidents. If you have avoided an inspection by an electrician, it’s essential to hire their services before straining your home’s power supply with excessive decorations.

and hanging your stockings with care.

The Chimney Safety Institute of America breaks inspection requirements into three levels.

• Level one: When the chimney is intended for use under continued service, and no changes have been made, only a basic inspection is required.

• Level two: A more thorough examination should be made when changes to the fuel source, shape or flue are administered.

• Level three: The highest inspection level is performed if issues are found during levels one or two. This typically results in repairs to the permanently attached components.

According to the CISA, most chimney fires go undetected until significant damage has already impacted the structure. For Fireplace Safety peace of mind this holiday season, hire an Decorate Safely It’s critical to ensure your fireplace is in expert inspector to ensure it’s safe to roast Setting the scene for Christmas includes good working order before igniting ablaze chestnuts over an open fire.

32 Northern Arizona’s Mountain Living Magazine

holiday plants, festive lights and fir or cinnamon scents. If decorations are part of your family’s tradition, follow these tips from the National Safety Council to keep your well-being in mind.

• Keep potentially poisonous plants like mistletoe, holly berries, Jerusalem cherry and amaryllis away from pets and children.

• When using an artificial tree, ensure that it is fire resistant.

• Replace lights that have broken sockets, frayed or bare wires or loose connections.

• Turn off all lights and decorations before going to sleep or leaving the house.

Displaying a live Christmas tree requires homeowners to cut off about two inches of the trunk to expose fresh wood to promote better water absorption.

PLAYING FAVORITES

QUARANTINE IN 18 BREADS Katie King’s ‘Bread Poems’ an exercise in comfort and creativity

MACKENZIE CHASE

I‌ n the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, many scrambled to find routine following abrupt cancellations of arts events and the temporary end of in-person shopping and dining. The humble loaf of bread provided a challenge for new home bakers as social media feeds were filled with complaints of flour and active dry yeast shortages, or photos of successful sourdough starters and rustic loaves.

But home baker Adam Neisen of A Dog’s Walk Bakery has long perfected the art of baking unique sourdough loaves, crisp crust surrounding soft chewy insides. As routine was disrupted, writer Katie King turned to ordering new items from the bakery to find

inspiration. The result is “Bread Poems: My quarantine in 18 breads.” Although slim, the volume carries heavy emotions and epiphanies sparked by hearty ingredients that make up offerings like the Kalamata sourdough loaf or the lemon turmeric poppy seed scone.

Northern Arizona’s Mountain Living Magazine talked to King about her inspirations and how food can be a window into the past.

Northern Arizona’s Mountain Living Magazine: As you note at the beginning of your chapbook, many people turned to baking bread to relieve stress during the early weeks of quarantine. What comfort do you feel bread provides, whether in baking or eating?

Katie King: Comfort is an art. The art of being able to comfort another person is a skill I’ve only really been able to find done well by my mother, and sometimes bread.

I found more comfort in thinking and writing about the bread than the eating of it.

I’ve always found it hard to simplify and bread helped me do that. In the poems I am a food critic, but one coming from an emotional perspective—talking about how the ingredients hit the senses more than the taste buds. Taste is complex and emotional. It is informed by experience and mood: where you eat, with whom, when. I wanted to talk about food by using life experiences instead.

Imagine you were at a restaurant and you ordered, not by the menu, but how you wanted to feel. The waiter would take your statements like, “I feel like I need some confidence.” “Take me back to my childhood.” “Less Anxious,” or, “In Love,” and then they bring you something delicious and meaningful. I’d like to eat at a place like that.

Bread is something that stays the same in a world of change. It has always represented stability and sustenance—and even spirituality.

Winter 2020 namlm.com

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Rather than an eat-to-live perspective, I come from a write-to-live one.

How did you decide to write a collection of poems surrounding A Dog’s Walk Bakery?

I just had a lot to say about it. My partner was also a fan and we had a lot of conversations about it. Adam’s menu gave us a fun way to share and connect rather than talking about COVID. He’d ask me, “What did you write about this one?” Which was fun because we have very different tastes.

You know, it was either look at all the rising COVID numbers or, “Hey, what kind of bread do you want to order this week?”

I also align with Adam politically and appreciate all he has done to donate to social causes and speak up, sometimes literally as his bread often speaks humanitarian sentiments with its crust. It gave me a form and structure. It helped me cheer up.

I had heard about Good Boy: My Life in Seven Dogs by Jennifer Finney Boylan on NPR. I wondered what my seven dogs would be and then I found it in my 18 breads.

I found the menu uplifting and inspiring, artistic in a way as it seemed like the bakery was sort of bursting at the seams to make unconventional combinations. I’m more into exploring new things I’ve never tasted before than repeating recipes or getting lost in nostalgia. It was instant content creation as the titles of the breads wrote themselves and remained my final draft titles.

I miss the NYC food scene and how you would hunt for unknown hole in the wall eats. When I first read about A Dog’s Walk Bakery in Flag Live! last December it made me excited that Flagstaff was doing something that could provide me with that big city fix—as contradictory as that sounds being a home bakery—but NYC was like that, little homes and micro-communities all smooshed together, weird little haunts or experiences popping up all over the place.

Can you recall the first time you tried one of Adam’s loaves? What was that experience like?

My son was a picky eater at the time and I was just overjoyed to find something that delighted him. A 6-year-old with his own loaf of purple bread to devour at will is a big deal. It was something to look forward to when I picked him up from school. When 34 Northern Arizona’s Mountain Living Magazine

spice and flavor, salt and butter, pepper and tabasco. I can see this bread going well with her black-eyed pea and ham hocks soup and wish I could share it with her.

I paid Adam via Venmo it was easy to have my son just walk out of the car to get the bread and feel special doing it (often getting an extra cookie or sweet from Adam when he did). I remember being surprised by the taste and texture of the bread. The ingredients sometimes sound hearty or intimidating but the loaves are humble and undemanding. Each one is so different.

How has this routine of sampling the bakery’s menu improved or otherwise shaped your quarantine?

With COVID, I didn’t have my typical places to rush off to in my normal hyperactive lifestyle so I found that I was, along with many extroverts, uncomfortably still.

All this big stuff was going on in the world and I thought, OK, this is a lot to handle.

Think small—what do I have control over?

The bread down the street seemed much more manageable. My brain could process that at least. And it got me out of the house.

You have three poems dedicated to the white corn green chile loaf—what drew you to this one in particular?

Yes, I wanted to capture why it was familiar. It may be strange to say that this loaf reminded me of my mother but it does. She is from South Carolina and had cornbread at the table a lot growing up and then adding the green chile seemed to echo her choice to raise me in the Southwest as she moved to the area when she was 25. She loved Cajun

This line in particular from “Turmeric, Chai, Rye, and Pepita” stood out to me: “There isn’t time for dabbling or dainty dances around your dreams, or walking around when you don’t know where you are.”

It feels in some ways that the pandemic has shown people there’s no time to be uncertain and allowed them to take more risks in their personal lives. How do you feel the pandemic has affected your world view?

Thank you. I’ve had that world view since my brother and mother died. It’s possible the pandemic has shown people to use their time differently, I’ve certainly heard that— realizing that home may be more important than the workplace, looking deeper into the way they treat their families or finally beginning to explore their emotions at 40 because they are sort of forced to.

Also the question of what would “forever” look like if we actually had it to spend with the people we’ve chosen to live with? Would they want to spend it with us without all the breaks of pre-COVID life?

What matters, what doesn’t, etc. How do our children see us dealing with conflict?

Depression? Because there are a lot less hiding places these days. Whether hiding was your workplace, your affair or even the ability to make a phone call without four people hearing it. My privacy is in my writing and I sort of stopped doing as much since March. I wasn’t living with an artistic family so I felt judged and was embarrassed to sit down and put my thoughts on the page for hours. Which is exactly what I need to do as a writer.

But since we are still in the thick of a pandemic, I don’t think I can tell how the pandemic has affected my world view until it’s been a few years and I’m looking back on it.

Where can people find your chapbook?

Brightside is carrying it! Bookmans too.

I love their commitment to local literature.

They really need our support so please thank them for all they have done to keep great books in the hands of locals during 2020!

SPOTLIGHT

SHARON LYNNE

Owner, Victorian Moon Antiques & Enchantments ‌Just to start, tell us a bit about yourself. What drew you to the world of antiques?

When I was a young 20-something with no furniture, I inherited some family pieces from my grandmother. A sofa, tea cart, china hutch, silver and teacups started my love of Victorian decorating. I have always been drawn to the rich fabrics, colors and patterns found in authentic period pieces.

All these years later, I still have all those first beloved family pieces, with some new additions as well!

Victorian Moon’s merchandise varies widely, from clothing and jewelry to candles and custom potions. How do you curate the items you offer?

I offer many services as well as products to be a model on the one-stop Victorian shops of old where you could procure all your necessary items in one store. I find my antiques inventory from all over Arizona as well as other states I’ve traveled to. Other items are sourced through my distributors or are handcrafted from local artists. I’m very particular with the items I have for sale and strive to find only the best that keep the Victorian aesthetic of the shop that my customers love. My eyes are always on the lookout for new, exciting items to bring in.

The shop expanded its storefront this year, taking the former space of Arizona Handmade Gallery on North San Francisco Street while the gallery reopened on the other side of the street. How has that transition been?

I moved into the storefront on February 1st of 2020 and was open for business four days later. Being inside the building as I was before posed challenges with customers finding the shop. A sandwich

board on the sidewalk was what led them inside to my 300-square-foot space. It was a blessing to be able to take over this larger space with its beautiful, bright windows and street-facing door. The amount of customers I have now compared to the small indoor space has increased tenfold and I couldn’t be more thankful and grateful!

The feel among downtown Flagstaff businesses seems to be quick camaraderie with everyone supporting and rooting for each other. Can you share a little about the other women-owned businesses you host inside your shop?

My incredible assistant Meredith has been with the shop for almost two years now. Her home-based vegan and gluten free baking business, Gleegan Treats, found a niche in our newly opened Moon Garden Tea Room and is a perfect addition to the other delicious treats we have available. Meredith is my gem, and I am so happy to have her in the shop and be able

to support her in any way I can!

The Inner Oracle Room recently opened downstairs and offers psychic and card readings by Sarani. Knowing how hard it can be to get customers inside the building, I am helping Sarani book clients by advertising her services in the shop, talking with prospective clients and getting them in touch with her for a reading. A client can make the appointment at our front desk and then Sarani will escort them from our shop to her office downstairs and handle the rest.

What activities do you enjoy in your spare time?

When I’m not at the shop, you can find me traveling, antiquing and cooking with my dear husband Jeff, enjoying lazy afternoons with a book or movie and cat in my lap, disc golfing with my son Cedar (when I say yes!), visiting with friends, making crafts or just being a domestic Goddess!

I’m perfectly happy doing any one of those things in my spare time!

Winter 2020 namlm.com

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The Health Insurance Marketplace is now open!

November 1 - December 15 North Country HealthCare can help you apply for health insurance in-person or over the phone!

• AHCCCS (Arizona Medicaid) • KidsCare • Health Insurance Marketplace • SNAP (formerly known as Food Stamps)

Contact your local North Country HealthCare and schedule today!

northcountryhealthcare.org 36 Northern Arizona’s Mountain Living Magazine