Timely Topic:  Skiing, Sledding and More!

When you come to Flagstaff to enjoy the snow, where should you go and what do you want to do?  There are several options:

Skiing:

¯     Arizona Snowbowl is the place for downhill (alpine) skiing or snowboarding.  Check their website at www.arizonasnowbowl.com for conditions.

¯     Flagstaff Nordic Center is the closest place for cross-country skiing, sleigh rides. www.flagstaffnordiccenter.com.

¯     Mormon Lake Ski Touring Center offers cross-country skiing and snowmobile rides.

¯     Wing Mountain has a snow play area and no-frills cross-country skiing.  New this year is a $10 per car fee, which goes to cleanup and rest room maintenance.

  http://www.fs.fed.us/r3/coconino/recreation/peaks/wing-mtn-ski-area.shtml

Sledding, Showshoeing and Snowplay:

¯     Flagstaff Nordic Center – see above under Skiing

¯     Wing Mountain -  see information under Skiing

¯     Crowley Pit – this area has no fee and is about 1 mile past the Flagstaff Nordic Center.

¯     In Flagstaff there are various opportunities!

o       NAU athletic fields by Kinsey Elementary School

o       DeMiguel Elementary School

o       City parks www.ci.flagstaff.az.us

¯     Anywhere there’s snow on public lands, you can play, ski, sled, hike and snowshoe, so get out and have some fun!  But, stay safe, know where you are and have basic survival supplies along for the ride.

News You Can Use!

¯     Know Snow:  The Arizona Department of Transportation has great tips on winter driving and preparedness, at http://www.azdot.gov/CCPartnerships/KnowSnow/ .  This site even has a video for you to watch!

¯     Coconino Youthworks:  For an inexpensive way to get your yard cleaned up (pine needles and leaves raked), let Mountain Home Concierge schedule Youthworks to do your project, for just $2.50 per giant bag!  This money goes to pay restitution for kids in the Juvenile Probation program for Coconino County, and we know they are well-supervised.  Several of our clients have had good results with the Youthworks Pine Needle program.

      October 9, 2006:  There’s snow on the San Francisco Peaks!  Let’s hope for more.

      Flag News @ Noon:  This premiered in May and had a rocky start.  Word is, it’s active again!  It is a one hour weekly netcast, originating live from the historic Weatherford Hotel. Available free via Internet at http://www.flgnews.com.

      Paving on I-40:  This will be ongoing for a few more weeks, causing lane closures and slight delays.  It does look like they’ll be done before the snow flies!

      Know Snow:  Remember that the Arizona Department of Transportation has great tips on winter driving and preparedness, at http://www.azdot.gov/CCPartnerships/KnowSnow/ .  This site even has a video for you to watch!

      Coconino Youthworks:  For an inexpensive way to get your yard cleaned up (pine needles and leaves raked), let Mountain Home Concierge schedule Youthworks to do your project, for just $2.50 per giant bag!  This money goes to pay restitution for kids in the Juvenile Probation program for Coconino County, and we know they are well-supervised.  If you want to find out more, you can talk to Judy Chapman at 928-226-nnnn.

Timely Topic:  High Altitude Baking

Wondering why your Flagstaff-baked cakes and bread look funny or fall in the middle?  To successfully bake at altitude, here are the tips we’ve found useful:

      Less leavening:  At 7000 feet, a lot less leavening is required to make your baked goods rise!  If you use the amount called for in a recipe, it is almost certain to over-rise and collapse.  Here are the recommendations from the University of Utah web site:

¨      Baking powder or soda – use ¼ less than recipe calls for.

¨      Yeast – use ¼ - ½ less than recipe calls for.

      Less sweetener:  Use 1-3 tablespoons less per cup.

      Less rise time:  Reduce your ‘proof’ or rising time by about ¼, or make sure it doesn’t rise more than double – some recommend that you add an extra rise cycle.

      Higher temperature/less bake time: Experiment with 25 degrees higher temp and a correspondingly reduced bake time, to ‘set’ your baked goods quicker so they don’t over-rise while baking.

      More liquid:  Ingredients are drier at higher altitudes, so add 2-4 tablespoons per cup.

      More salt:  This counteracts the leavening a little, and slows the rising time.

      Boxed mixes:  follow the high-altitude directions – they really make a difference.

We are pleased to announce a new service, Video Inventory, which is available now!  Our videographer will come out to your Flagstaff-area home and record the exterior, interior, furnishings and other personal property.  Homeowners insurance companies recommend having an inventory of your personal property in case you need to file a loss or damage claim, and this is one easy way to accomplish that task.  You can accompany the videographer and describe your property as it is recorded, then we’ll give you a copy, in VHS or DVD format, and keep one in our files, if you like.  Rates:

v     $60, for just this service, or

v     $50 if you are on our mailing list (postal or e-mail)

v     $30 for clients with new or existing 6- or 12-month Home Check contracts

Flag News @ Noon

Premiering at noon on Friday, May 26 is a new one hour weekly netcast, originating live from the historic Weatherford Hotel. Available free via Internet at http://www.flgnews.com, the variety format video presentation will cover news, sports, weather and provide entertainment updates for the weekend. Culture, commentary, comedy and arts round out this fare during this novel community-inspired program. Anyone with an Internet connection is able to watch the show live.

Old events were removed from this posting.

1. Keep a clearing of at least 30 feet around your house for fire fighting equipment.

2. Space the trees you plant carefully.

3. Remove "ladder fuels". They link the grasses and the tree tops.

4. Create "fuelbreak" - - - driveways, gravel walkways, or lawns.

5. Maintain your irrigation system regularly.

6. Prune tree limbs so the lowest is between 6' - 10' from the gound.

7. Remove leaf clutter from your roof and yard.

8. Mow regularly.

9. Remove dead or overhanging branches.

10. Store firewood away from your house.

11. Refuel garden equipment carefully.

12. Maintain garden equipment regularly.

13. If you smoke, use your ashtray.

14. Store and use flammable liquids properly.

15. Dispose of cuttings and debris promptly, according to local regulations.

16. Observe local regulations regarding vegetative clearances and fire safety equipment requirements.

17. Check your generator and/or hose to be sure it is in good repair.

18. Don't keep combustible materials under decks or elevated porches.

19. Make trellises of non-flammable metal.

20. Have at least two ground-level doors as safety exits.

21. Keep at least two means of escape (either a door/window) in each room.

22. Mark your driveway and access roads clearly.

23. Keep ample turnaround space near your house for fire equipment.

24. Prevent sparks from entering your house by covering vents with wire mesh no larger than 1/8".

25. When possible, use construction materials that are fire-resistant or non-combustible.

T The first snows of the season have fallen on the San Francisco Peaks!  When snow is coming, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT), Coconino County and the City of Flagstaff station snowplow crews at strategic locations to keep our roads open and drivers safe.  ADOT provides tips for vehicle preparation and driving in our upcoming winter weather.  Visit their website at www.azdot.gov/knowsnow.  Here are a few tips to help you stay safe driving in our winter wonderland!

• Prepare your vehicle for cold, snowy weather.   Check the battery, make sure you have the correct antifreeze in your radiator, check all lights and make sure your heater and defroster/defogger work!  You need good tread on your tires and should have a set of tire chains with you.  Keep your gas tank full.  We can check your Flagstaff vehicle for you!
• Keep safety items in your vehicle.  Always carry drinking water, snacks, flashlight and batteries, ice scraper, first aid kit, blankets or sleeping bags,  candles and matches, winter coats and boots, extra gloves/hats/socks, plastic bags for sanitation or other uses, safety flares, a travel tool kit and, of course, your cell phone.  Why not have Mountain Home Concierge build you a safety kit?
• Drive safely.  BUCKLE UP!  Stay well behind the vehicle in front of you, especially in icy conditions.  Slow down and be patient, and do not drive while eating, drinking or talking on the cell phone.  Accelerate and brake slowly, and drive smoothly – jerking the wheel can send your vehicle into a skid, or off the road completely. 

T Check the weather and road conditions.  Check the National Weather Service website for Flagstaff at www.wrh.noaa.gov/fgz.  Check driving conditions by calling 511 or 1-800-411-ROAD, or check www.az511.com. 

Have you prepared your home for another Flagstaff winter?  Last winter we had near-record snow and rain, and a lot of damage around town.  We offer our winter-preparation checklist below.  Mountain Home Concierge is willing and able to handle most of these tasks, or we’ll find someone who can!  We’re happy to help you plan for your home’s safety and security during cold weather.  We can watch your home, get your car serviced, buy groceries, take deliveries or wait for utility or service companies.

• Have your heating system or furnace cleaned, tuned and checked for carbon monoxide by a qualified contractor. This will reduce the chances of breakdowns in the middle of winter, improve safety, and allow more energy-efficient operation.  Let us arrange for heating system professionals to service your system now.
• Install a low level carbon monoxide alarm. Every home should have at least one carbon monoxide alarm.
• Replace your old furnace filters. New filters are safer, more dependable, and can pay for themselves through energy savings, as they can be up to twice as efficient as dirty filters.  Mountain Home Concierge is happy to provide this service for you!
• Protect water pipes.  Water pipes running through non-insulated areas can mean big trouble. One of the simplest methods to prevent water pipes from freezing is with heat tapes. If you install the heat tape, follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. If you have a heat tape already installed, make certain it's still operative. Never overlap heat tape - it can cause a fire.  
• Check exterior doors and windows for wear, tear, or cracking. Look for signs of leaking around the sill and threshold. Make sure weather stripping and seals are okay. Carefully examine your exterior siding and replace any missing or damaged fasteners or screws.
• Clean out and inspect rain gutters for leaks or holes. They should be slanted so water runs away from your home. Don't forget to check and repair downspouts and extensions.
• Keep thermostats at or above 55, to protect pipes and furnishings.  Our "Home Check" service includes verifying indoor temperatures and checking all visible plumbing fixtures and pipes during each visit.
• Winterize your irrigation system by draining all lines and turning off the timers and water to the system.  Landscaping professionals can do this for you.  Let us know if you need help finding one.

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Do you have time to relax?  Here are some ideas on how to make your time in Flagstaff enjoyable and relaxing.

• Take a hike:  We all know exercise is relaxing, so take advantage of our wonderful Ponderosa forest and get out there.  Walk 2 miles for the most benefit to your health, and see how it rejuvenates you.
• Take a break:  Maybe your schedule has been too full.  Lie in your hammock with a good book and frosty glass of iced green tea.  Let those antioxidants get to work.
• Take a bath:  Try this recipe for a nice aromatherapy treat:  Stir together over low heat until blended 2 Tbsp olive oil, 1/2 Tbsp cocoa butter, 1/2 tsp honey, 3/4 tsp grated beeswax.  Cool a little and add 1 vitamin E capsule and 2 tsp vanilla extract, then add 3 Tbsp to your warm bath and soak for at least 10 minutes!
• Get a massage:  Massage is relaxing, rejuvenating and all-around wonderful.  You can find a licensed reputable massage therapist in the phone book, at fitness centers and at the local hospital, so go ahead, treat yourself.
• Go to a concert:  Flagstaff has indoor and outdoor plays, concerts and other fun events all year round.  Check our events calendar on page 2, or follow the links on our web site, to find something you like, or try something new.
• Give your time:  OK, this might not be relaxing, but it will definitely make you feel good.  We have lots of social service agencies who need minutes, hours or days of your time - check out the food banks, churches, schools or animal service agencies.

Get Ready for Winter

Have you taken some time this summer, to prepare your home for another winter?  Maybe it's as simple as caulking windows and doors, then setting your furnace and water heater thermostats, or maybe you need more than that.  Relax!  Mountain Home Concierge can help.  We're happy to provide referrals for maintenance, landscape and construction work, and can help you plan for your home's safety and security during cold weather.  We'll also watch your home, get your car(s) serviced, buy groceries, take deliveries or wait for utility or service companies, so you don't have to!

You probably already know the basics of protecting your home from wildfire.  Here are some tips from Firewise that you may not have already seen – visit www.firewise.org for more!

• Make trellises of non-flammable metal
• Don't keep combustible materials under decks or elevated porches
• Prevent sparks from entering your house by covering vents with wire mesh no larger than 1/8"
• Have at least two ground-level doors as safety exits
• Mark your driveway and access roads clearly

Going Away?

These tips are good for your winter or summer residence!  Make it look like someone is home, but not too inviting:

• Set timers to turn lights on and off according to normal time for the day and night.
• Adjust appliances.  Turn down your water heater, turn off gas appliances and turn off the water for your washer and/or dishwasher.  Or, turn off the water to the house completely.
• Turn down telephone ringers and make certain you have cleared your telephone messages and the message you leave for callers does not indicate your absence.
• Remove items from your porch or lawn that could be damaged by high winds or stolen.
• Leave curtains and blinds in normal positions.
• Hide valuables:  Do not leave valuables out where they can easily be viewed through a window.
• Leave a radio playing on a talk station.
• Lock all doors and windows. Place a brace in sliding glass doors.
• Leave a second car in the driveway or have a neighbor park in your driveway while you are gone.
• Leave contact information with a neighbor, friend or caretaker. Include cell and land phone numbers, e-mail address and other emergency information.  Maybe leave a key with your emergency contact or a caretaker.

Trouble in Paradise:  Flagstaff has certainly had its share of weather troubles this winter.  You'll want to check for signs that your home had winter problems:

• Pipes - check to see that your pipes didn't freeze.  If your water bill is higher than normal, you may have a leak.
• Freezer/fridge - if your home was affected by an extended power outage you'll need to determine if the food in your home is still safe to eat.  Even if it's safe, refreezing partially thawed food reduces its quality.
• Roof/windows/doors - check to see that trees and branches haven't damaged these important parts of your home.  If there is damage, get it repaired as quickly as possible to reduce additional problems from the upcoming windy season.

Mountain Home Concierge can perform these checks for you, and provide a written report of any damage or other conditions.

Security, Security, Security:   Even more important than location is your peace of mind, once you have your wonderful vacation retreat!  There are lots of products available now that can help, as well as the better-known security services.  You can purchase remote systems that will call you upon sensing one of many events:  water, temperature, humidity level, door or window opening, fire or smoke, or indoor or outdoor motion detection.  If you choose to purchase one of these systems, why not put Mountain Home Concierge on your call list, so we can check out any issues and report in-person to you?  Some available systems include:

·        FreezeAlarm              $100+

·        PowerMax                $200+

·        Lynx                         $200+

·        DTexx                       $160+

·        Wireless1000            $135+

·        GE Simon                  $235+

·        Skylink                      $170+

Most systems are configurable for multiple phone numbers and multiple events.  Let Mountain Home Concierge be your eyes and ears, and have your system call us when an issue arises that needs attention.