Flagstaff Tax Coalition, December @7000ft

DECEMBER 2019 | VOL 5, ISSUE 12

By The Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce

BECAUSE A

HEALTHY BUSINESS CLIMATE AND A

THRIVING COMMUNITY ARE INSEPARABLE

IN THE SPIRIT OF GIVING

FLAGSTAFF TAX COALITION

NAASA

NORTHERN ARIZONA ADAPTIVE SPORTS ASSOCIATION

ADVOCACY

CHAMBER TOOLS AND RESOURCES

FREE

Skate Station AT THE

Dec 14 -Jan 5 • 12-6 pm

Open Christmas Eve 12-2 pm & Open New Year’s Eve 12-4 pm Closed Christmas & New Year’s Days

OPERATED BY Official

Flagstaff Funded in part with tourism tax dollars

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7000ft | DECEMBER 2019 | VOL 5, ISSUE 12 | GREATER FLAGSTAFF CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

1 EAST ROUTE 66, FLAGSTAFF, AZ • DISCOVERFLAGSTAFF.COM @

CONTENTS

ANNUAL GIVING FLAGSTAFF TAX COALITION

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WELCOME TO THE CHAMBER PAGE 10

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ATHENA NOMINATIONS PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE SHOP LOCAL THIS HOLIDAY SEASON LEADERSHIP @7000ft TAX COALITION

NAASA AT SNOWBOWL PAGE 11

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WELCOME AND CONGRATULATIONS NORTHERN ARIZONA ADAPTIVE SPORTS CHAMBER BUSINESS ADVOCACY SHOP LOCAL

GREATER FLAGSTAFF CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | DECEMBER 2019 | VOL 5, ISSUE 12 |

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INTRODUCTION @7000ft is published monthly by the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce with revenue from member dues, advertising and sponsorships. All rights reserved. Reproduction of the whole or any part of the contents of this publication, by any method or purpose whatsoever, without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. Only Chamber members can advertise in @7000ft. To inquire about advertising please contact the Chamber.

Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce 101 W. Route 66, Flagstaff, AZ 86001 (928) 774-4505 info@flagstaffchamber.com flagstaffchamber.com

CHAMBER LEADERSHIP Officers

Directors

Chair Brenda Hazlett APS

Monica Attridge Hozhoni Foundation

1st Vice Chair Mark Love Massage Envy 2nd Vice Chair Joe Pozar, Jr. Joy Cone Co. 3rd Vice Chair Clay McCauslin KAFF/KMGN Radio

Doug Bonate BBVA Compass Bank Guillermo Cortes Shephard-Wesnitzer, Inc. Walter Crutchfield Vintage Partners Mark Harris Terry Marxen Chevrolet Cadillac Jacquie Kellogg West USA Realty

Treasurer Jennifer Nordstrom Cecily Maniaci Toasted Owl Nordstrom & Pete Muscarella Associates PC Immediate Past Chairman Randon Cupp Foothills Bank

Ex-Officio Joanne Keene Northern Arizona University Dr. Colleen Smith Coconino Community College

Straightline Builders Patrick Nackard Nackard Companies Fred Reese Little America Lindie Rodgers Superior Propane Richard Sanchez State Farm Insurance Cassity Smith Flagstaff Young Professionals Flo Spyrow Northern Arizona Healthcare

e ebsit See w lendar for cavents of e gstaff a / ess.fl busin mber.com a ch vents e

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7000ft | DECEMBER 2019 | VOL 5, ISSUE 12 | GREATER FLAGSTAFF CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Cover Photo Credit: Barb Sherman

John Stigmon ECoNA Steve Thompson Colliers International Kelly Tulloss Sutcliffe Floral Bryce Warren Twin Arrows Casino Resort

BUSINESS INFLUENCERS

VIEW FROM THE CHAMBER PRESIDENT’S DESK As the holiday season rolls into town with the first dustings of snow, I reflect on all the new and familiar faces that have filled the Chamber this year.

Ambassadors, Staff, Board Directors, Non Profits, Education and Advocacy Division members and more, all with a light in their eyes to advocate for the success of our business community in their own ways.

Remembering these busy days and all those who have crossed the threshold of the chamber in 2019 I feel deep gratitude for the time and trust so many of you have placed in us. The roles each individual plays on every scale shape this beautiful city we all call home. The Chamber operates with a focus on results and reliability as a hub of information, but above all its focus is on the people.

Not everyone understands our aims, but the Chamber serves as a trusted convener and connector for the business realm and community at large. Our place in the community has been earned over time through considerable dedication to consistency, reaching 130 years next year of addressing questions, solving problems, guiding local business and advocating for the health of our local economy towards growth and job creation. Above all, the Greater Flagstaff Chamber stands as a catalyst for business growth, convener for leaders and influencers, and a champion for stronger communities.

As President I find myself sometimes distracted by the ‘what-ifs’ of tomorrow as our community addresses wage increases, new regulations and policies putting strain on businesses, and the final decisions of businesses considering relocating or putting roots here in Flagstaff. But in spite of these challenges the holiday time reminds us of the fresh start and new opportunity the coming year brings, and

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY, GROW YOUR BUSINESS, CONNECT & ENGAGE

Julie Pastrick President + CEO

fortifies us in preparation for the highs and lows yet to come.

With a grateful heart it is my honor to wish you and your loved ones a joyful and full holiday season. This year has challenged and rewarded us, pushed us to grow and reimagine our role in an ever changing political and economic terrain.

Yet for all the obstacles we have faced, the brightest moments of shared celebration and achievement stand out and carry us into the New Year with excitement for the accomplishments to come.

Let’s continue to collaborate, challenge boundaries and care for our community so it may thrive in tandem with a healthy business climate. We renew our promise to you to courageously care for your business in the year ahead, and we thank you for the confidence you place in us.

Happy Holidays and an even Happier New Year,

Become a member today!

Visit flagstaffchamber.com or call Kat Ross, Vice President of Investor Relations at (928) 774-4505

GREATER FLAGSTAFF CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | DECEMBER 2019 | VOL 5, ISSUE 12 |

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7000ft | DECEMBER 2019 | VOL 5, ISSUE 12 | GREATER FLAGSTAFF CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Advancing a Strong Community

Photo credit: Barb Sherman

WHAT BROUGHT THIS ORGANIZATION TOGETHER? In 2013, a group of local nonprofits began collaborating as the Flagstaff Tax Credit Coalition, with the goal of increasing local awareness of the State’s AZ Charitable Tax Credit. That Coalition has grown over time and now includes 24 local nonprofits, that work to meet the basic needs of our most vulnerable neighbors. The Arizona Community Foundation of Flagstaff serves as the fiscal agent for the Coalition.

HOW LONG HAS YOUR COALITION WORKED TOGETHER? Coalition members have collaborated as the Flagstaff Tax Credit Coalition for 6 years. In 2013, the organizations collectively raised $258,000. Last year, the organizations increased tax credit donations to $1.5 million.

Every dollar donated stayed here in Flagstaff, paying for employees and direct services to clients in need.

IF YOU COULD GO BACK AND CHANGE YOUR PROFESSIONAL PATH IN SOME WAY, WOULD YOU? IF NO, WHY NOT? All members of the Flagstaff Tax Credit Coalition are committed to meeting those basic needs of our most vulnerable community members. The health care, housing, educational service, food and support our agencies provide are critical to the community. Without support from local AZ taxpayers who direct their tax dollars to qualified organizations, we could not continue to have the impact in Flagstaff.

WHAT DO MEMBERS OF THIS GROUP ENJOY MOST ABOUT THEIR WORK? Collectively, we take pride in our ability to provide comprehensive, critical services in an atmosphere of dignity and respect. We know our work truly makes a difference, as we see the results on a daily basis.

Without Flagstaff’s nonprofit safety net, individuals and families in need would suffer unnecessarily. Our community thrives when individual families thrive – we are part of that success.

flagstafftaxcredit.org

WHAT IS THE MAIN FOCUS OF THIS GROUP? The main goal of this group is to increase funding for qualified charitable organizations who serve Flagstaff, as the funding enables us to serve others, keep employees working and change lives. We believe if every AZ taxpayer in Flagstaff understood the AZ Charitable Tax Credit, they would direct their tax dollars to stay in Flagstaff and make a difference. Our goal is to increase awareness of the multiple tax credits available to Flagstaff taxpayers, so they can choose how their taxes impact our community. Thank you to the chamber for your support over the years!

TO WHAT DO YOU ATTRIBUTE THIS SUCCESS? The nonprofit sector in Flagstaff is collaborative. We all sink or swim together, as the households we serve often work with multiple agencies to meet a variety of needs. We know there is strength in our collaboration and the community is better served when we work together.

DOES YOUR WORK DIFFER FROM THE EXTERNAL PERCEPTION OF WHAT YOU DO? IF YES, HOW SO? The biggest misconception external audiences have about the nonprofit members of our coalition is that we are doing “good work” and that we are not businesses. The nonprofits members are employers, we buy goods and services and we have to balance our budgets to keep our doors open. We don’t sell widgets. We sell community impact.

But, at the end of the day, that community impact relies on income, just like for-profit businesses in our community.

WHAT DO YOUR MEMBERS DO FOR FUN OR TO BALANCE OUT YOUR WORK LIFE? Our employees are members of the Flagstaff community and enjoy all that Flagstaff has to offer. We coach little league, we support local businesses and we enjoy the outdoor resources that we are blessed to have here in Flagstaff.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU OR RE-MOTIVATES YOU? What inspires us is when we witness firsthand the impact our work has on clients’ lives. Our work allows people to improve their education, to live healthy lives, to secure

decent and safe housing and to be integral members of our community. It’s frightening to consider what Flagstaff would look like without our nonprofit community partners.

Flagstaff wouldn’t be Flagstaff without our agencies.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF SERVING THE FLAGSTAFF COMMUNITY? Flagstaff folks are compassionate. They care about others. They are inclusive and giving. They want to make a difference and they want to see others succeed. Flagstaff is small-town and feels more like a large family. We know each other and work to support each other to be healthy, happy and successful.

WHAT GOALS DO YOU HAVE FOR THE GROWTH AND SUCCESS OF YOUR GROUP? In our wildest dreams, each Flagstaff taxpayer would understand the AZ Charitable Tax Credit and direct their taxes to benefit Flagstaff Tax Credit Coalition members. If we can grow local donations from the $1.5 million raised last year to $5 million or $10 million, the impact we can have locally is awe inspiring. We would change from an environment of scarcity to one of abundance, expanding programs and strategically investing in proven outcomes.

DO YOU HAVE A RULE OR MANTRA YOU STRIVE TO LIVE BY? Coalition members are guided by the principals of inclusion, community service and basic human kindness. We work to reduce pain and suffering, while building on individual’s strengths. Our goal is for families and individuals in Flagstaff to be selfsufficient and healthy.

WHERE DO YOU HOPE TO SEE THIS COALITION IN 10 YEARS? In 10 years, Flagstaff Tax Credit Coalition members will raise $5 million locally to support the critical programs and services we offer to at-risk and vulnerable families.

This investment in our local businesses will ensure individuals have jobs and that more families have their basic needs met so they can thrive in our Flagstaff community. And to help us realize this vision, please go to www. flagstafftaxcredit.org to make your tax credit donation today!

GREATER FLAGSTAFF CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | DECEMBER 2019 | VOL 5, ISSUE 12 |

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CHAMBER WELCOMES & CONGRATULATES

RIBBON CUTTING

RIBBON CUTTING

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1

GRAND OPENING

GRAND OPENING

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1. Leveling the Playing Field - Ribbon Cutting 2. International Minute Press - One Year Anniversary Celebration 3. Planet Fitness Flagstaff - Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting 4. Flagstaff Doulas - Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting

NEWEST CHAMBER MEMBERS

Welcome to the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce!

FRUTH GROUP, INC. FLAGSTAFF, AZ 86001 (877) 272-0946 https://fruthgroup.com/

HOBSON DENTAL GROUP 3100 N WEST ST SUITE 100 FLAGSTAFF, AZ 86004 (928) 779-0331

GO SUSHI 1411 S MILTON RD FLAGSTAFF, AZ 86001 (928) 440-5001

FLAGSTAFF TILE & STONE 4 S SAN FRANCISCO SUITE 4 FLAGSTAFF, AZ 86001 (928) 440-5460

6 PARKS IN THE PINES 12963 OLD RTE 66 SUITE 50340 PARKS, AZ 86018 (928) 635-4741

CINDY'S DIVINE PET GROOMING SALON 3885 E INDUSTRIAL DR FLAGSTAFF, AZ 86004 (928) 266-0869

KSDESIGNS LLC 4605 S LANCE RD FLAGSTAFF, AZ 86005 (928) 300-6502

PAPA JOHN'S PIZZA 105 S MILTON FLAGSTAFF, AZ 86001 (928) 779-7272

SKIN LA RUE 611 N LEROUX ST FLAGSTAFF, AZ 86001 (928) 606-4115

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NAASA: ENRICHING LIVES THROUGH ADAPTIVE RECREATION Sometimes a single experience can change the course of someone’s life, and change hundreds more in turn. In the case of Alex Davenport, teaching his first snow sport lesson to a differently abled individual inspired a movement that has transformed the slopes of Snowbowl Resort each winter. Seeing the impact this lesson made on this young man and his family, Alex set out to bring adaptive snow sports to the Northern Arizona region in a more permanent way.

"The mental and physical benefits of outdoor recreation for people with disabilities are invaluable. When our students are successful sliding on snow, we find that they are successful in other areas of their lives. For children we see improvements in school and their social interactions with others. For adults we find boosts in confidence that enables people to make positive lifestyle changes, apply for employment opportunities and build upon and create new, meaningful relationships."

-Alex Davenport With the generous support of Arizona Snowbowl and Northern Arizona Healthcare Foundation, this incredible program has grown by leaps and bounds from 12 lessons the first year to 748 this past year. From funding for adaptive equipment to reducing the cost of lessons and lift tickets, this program has become more accessible and inclusive every year. With recent grant awards achieved with help from local grant writers, the NAASA is planning for even more expansion and will have it's own new accessable center at Snowbowl by this coming winter season. This year, more funding is avaliable for disabled veterans for discounted lessons on the Snowbowl slopes with a projected impact reaching across the state.

If this organization strikes a cord with you, if you have a love of skiing and helping others, consider becoming a volunteer or an instructor. NAASA is wanting to keep up with the amazing increase in demand, and could always use an extra hand! This community of Northern Arizona is what has made this program possible, and it's with the support of locals that it has seen such incredible growth.

Learn more at www.NAZadaptivesports.com or reach out at adaptive@snowbowl.ski.

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FLAGSTAFF CITY COUNCIL ADVOCACY Public discussions on key business issues and events for local business members and the Flagstaff community

Chamber Implements Updated Online Advocacy Tool Foothills Bank Sponsorship Allows Chamber Members to Engage Elected Officials VoterVOICE is back! Check-out the Chamber’s new, and even more powerful advocacy center at the Greater Flagstaff Chamber’s “Take Action” page on the Chamber’s website. Now Chamber members can directly engage your local, state and federal elected officials on important issues to our local business community. Items of interest include Advocacy Campaigns, Mayor & City Council Scorecards, the Flagstaff Business Advocacy Blog, additional advocacy campaigns, raising current business issues, elected official scorecard updates, surveys and more! VoterVOICE is brought to you through a unique partnership with Foothills Bank. For more on how you can assist with sponsoring the Chamber’s advocacy efforts, please email advocacy@flagstaffchamber.com

Survey of Flagstaff Businesses Underscores Negative Impact of Mandated Wage Hikes Flagstaff Wage Social Experiment Failing to Deliver on Promises The Chamber’s annual wage mandate survey is currently open to Chamber members through mid-December, and the results show the 2016 voter-approved law is failing the community miserably. Eighty-five percent of respondents agreed that Flagstaff’s local wage mandate impacts their business, and more than 70% acknowledged raising their costs to Flagstaff consumers to mitigate the damage.

Additionally, survey participants acknowledged in wake of higher wage mandates they: •

reduced employee hours (45%), and/or

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did not hire previously-scheduled-to-hire new employees (47%)

will lay-off existing employees in lieu of the January 01, 2020 wage mandate hike (16%)

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For those businesses increasing costs in Flagstaff to mitigate damage caused by wage hikes, 60% said their costs to consumers would increase between 6% and 20%, while only 34% said costs would increase between 0% and 5%. Eightyeight percent acknowledged the existing law should be changed or repealed entirely. Mandated wages are typically paid to entry-level, unskilled workers, who coincidentally, are the first to be laid-off when employers are faced with the dilemma of meeting wage mandates. The Chamber’s annual wage survey reflects a sad state in the Flagstaff business community due to forced wage increases, that of entry-level employees losing current positions, and potential new positions not open for hire.

The promise by promotors of local wage mandates that people are guaranteed to earn more money simply is not true. Evidence shown via survey respondents conclusively proves increased consumer costs, job losses and reduced new hires is directly proportional to mandated wage increases. Flagstaff, once a premier dining location in northern Arizona, is getting a large dose of national labor union wage policy. Sadly, the union-backed higher wage mandate flavor is not proving the least bit palatable to our home-grown community.

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7000ft | DECEMBER 2019 | VOL 5, ISSUE 12 | GREATER FLAGSTAFF CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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GREATER FLAGSTAFF CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | DECEMBER 2019 | VOL 5, ISSUE 12 |

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