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A great education creates great opportunities and ensures students are ready for them. At Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, we specialize in opening doors around the globe for students who have been prepared to excel by our renowned faculty and unique hands-on degree programs.
Our graduates are routinely sought out by top employers, including: The
At PrescottLIVINGMagazine, the Community,” because we believe that the stories in our local region are best told by the people, companies, nonprofits and governments that comprise our community. Here are the “voices” who helped make this issue possible!
Dr. Hojat Askari
Founder&MedicalDirector,ThumbButteMedicalCenter
Dr. Hojat Askari, or “Dr. A,” is founder and medical director of Thumb Butte Medical Center at 3124 Willow Creek Road, Prescott, with over 20 medical professionals specializing in family medicine, internal medicine, cardiology, allergy treatment, and foot and ankle surgery. For over 11 years he has serviced the Quad City community and emphasized that Thumb Butte Medical Center treats all patients like family at all their locations.
Martha Baden
Manager, Public Services, Prescott Public Library
Martha is Library Manager, public services at Prescott Public Library. Still enjoying a lifelong love of connecting people with information they need and books they’ll love, she has worked in school or public libraries in four states over the last 20 years.
Debora Black
Chief of Police, City of Prescott
Chief Black was appointed Chief of Police for the City of Prescott in July 2016. Prior to this, she was the chief of police for the City of Glen dale, Arizona, where she served since first joining as assistant chief in 2006. Chief Black began her career in 1980 as a patrol officer with the Phoenix Police Department. She has been awarded the Medal of Valor, three Medals of Lifesaving and two Police Chief’s Unit Awards.
Margo serves on the board of directors for the Prescott Chamber of Commerce and the Arizona Lodging and Tourism Association. She is also a founding member of the City of Prescott Tourism Advisory Committee.
Dennis Gallagher
FounderandCEO,PrescottWesternHeritageFoundation
The Prescott Western Heritage Foundation, Inc., is a charitable nonprofit 501(c)(3) all-volunteer corporation, whose mission is to preserve and promote our western heritage. In 2019, Dennis’ vision for a Western Heritage Center on historic Whiskey Row in downtown Prescott became a reality. He and his wife MaryAnn have been married 53 years.
Sandy Griffis
Executive Director,Yavapai CountyContractors Association
Sandy is Executive Director of Yavapai County Contractors Association, and has lived in the Prescott area for 21 years. Sandy has a bachelor’s degree in journalism and an MBA in business with a minor in music from San Diego State.
Sheri L. Heiney
President/CEO, Prescott ChamberofCommerce
Sheri was hired as the President/CEO of the Prescott Chamber of Commerce in January 2017. She moved to Arizona from Michigan, and has over 23 years of chamber professional
Tracey Horn
Owner, Helken & HornAdvertisingAgency
Tracey has been helping Northern Arizona businesses prosper, creating professional marketing and advertising materials and negotiating media and digital marketing buys since 1995. She assists with all marketing for the Whiskey Row New Year’s Eve Boot Drop she helped create in 2011.
With 15 years of public health experience, Horton currently works to ensure the effective and efficient delivery of public health services throughout Yavapai County. She is a member of the MATFORCE and Northland Cares boards of directors.
Lori Kennedy
Communications Coordinator, Embry-RiddleAeronautical University
Lori has worked in the hospitality industry for 30 years and has been an active participant in the explosive growth of the health and wellness industry.
Ken Lain
Owner,Watters Garden Center
Ken grew up in Prescott, attended Yavapai College and obtained his degrees from ASU. He married his college sweetheart Lisa Watters-Lain and has four children. His garden advice can be heard each week on the radio. Throughout the week, Ken can be found at Watters Garden Center.
of the Community
Greg Mengarelli
Mayor, CityofPrescott
Greg has lived in Prescott since 1995, and has been the Executive Director for United Christian Youth Camp for the past 23 years. He grew up in small, rural communities in Kansas, and graduated from Kansas State University. He is active in community affairs, and is currently the President of the Prescott Unified School District Board.
Ray Newton
Journalist and Professor-AdministratorEmeritus, NorthernArizona University
A veteran of weekly and daily newspapers and book editing and writing — Ray has been there. He is a Professor-Administrator Emeritus from Northern Arizona University, now retired and residing in Prescott with his wife, Patty.
Dr. Billie Orr
PrescottMayorProTem&Councilwoman
Billie has served as a teacher, principal and Associate Superintendent for Arizona K-12 public schools, and also at the national level while promoting high standards and accountability. She is a member of Frontier Rotary and serves on the boards of Arizona Townhall, Western Heritage Center, CYMPO, Republican Women of Prescott, the Phippen Museum, and the Read On Prescott Steering Committee.
Kell Palguta
Mayor,TownofPrescottValley
Kell moved to Prescott Valley in 1996 from a small town in Maine. In 1998 he began his career in public service as a police officer. He takes great pride in being elected the youngest mayor in Yavapai County, and his goals are to ensure that every citizen’s voice is heard.
Sheila is a native Arizonan, who has served as the Yavapai Attorney for 17 years. A career prosecutor, Sheila chairs MATFORCE, the substance abuse coalition, and is the driving stimulus behind the law enforcement course “What You Do Matters: Lessons from the Holocaust.”
Marnie Uhl
President & CEO Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce
Marnie has been the President/CEO since 2006 and successfully led the Chamber to a national accreditation through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Federation. She was selected as Prescott Area Leadership’s Woman of the Year 2017 and serves on many professional and nonprofit boards. Marnie has been in the Chamber industry for 20 years.
Fred Veil
Executive Director, Sharlot Hall Museum
Fred is the Executive Director of the Sharlot Hall Museum. He is a Marine Corps veteran and former Sheriff of the Prescott Corral of Westerners International, he conceived and organized the Western History Symposium. He is a board member of the Arizona History Convention and member of the Tourism Advisory Committee for the City of Prescott.
Loree Walden
MarketingManager,YavapaiHumaneSociety
Loree is originally from Hawaii and moved to Prescott in 2010. Her background spans a variety of careers, including 20 years of taxes, 8 years of radio traffic and now as marketing manager for Yavapai Humane Society, where she gets to advocate for and help animals find furever homes.
Tori Ward
ROXTravel, Cruise and ResortSpecialist
Victoria “Tori” is a cruise and resort specialist with a master’s degree in political science. She has completed more than 30 certification courses with the cruise and tour industry including the most advanced certification, Commodore, from Princess Cruise Lines.
Donna Werking
Owner,MarketingAgency,NorthernArizonaSocial,LLC
Donna is the owner of Northern Arizona’s premier marketing firm. She specializes in the latest digital and traditional marketing strategies for businesses across the region. She dedicates her time on committees and boards to support local non-profits and organizations in her community.
Hard-working Women Lead the Way
Every year, I get excited about the annual LIVING Magazine Women in Business & Leadership issue. It’s a chance to celebrate those who have built and realized their dreams here in Greater Prescott and beyond and inspire others who have just begun to sketch those dreams out for themselves.
Learning about the hard work these influential businesswomen and leaders put into their careers and their community can help those who aspire to achieve build their ladder to the top. As the leader of a woman-owned and woman-managed media company, I understand the skills, numbers, strategy and networking required to breathe life into your dream and create an environment where it can grow.
When women launch businesses of their own, it not only benefits themselves and their families but the community they live in, no matter how large or small.
American Express’ State of Women-Owned Businesses report for 2019 shows women-owned firms represented 42% of all businesses — a total of almost 13 million — employing 9.4 million workers and
generating $1.9 trillion in revenue.
The number of businesses at least 51% owned by a woman or group of women rose 21% between 2014-19, compared to 9% growth for businesses overall. Total revenue growth for these companies slightly outpaced growth for all businesses, 21% versus 20%.
The almost 100 women featured in our 2020 Women in Business & Leadership section have had an immeasurable impact on the Greater Prescott community through either owning or working for a business in a leadership role or through dedicating their time to the needs of the community through nonprofits, elected or governmental positions.
This month’s ROX Interview subject is Arizona State Sen. Karen Fann of Prescott, a business owner as well as political leader. The daughter of the founder of a contracting business for which her brother Mike Fann continues the legacy founded her own contracting business in 1984. Her Arizona Highway Safety Specialists business is now the top guardrail installation firm in the state.
We also profile Tracey Horn, who’s celebrating 25 years since the found-
ing of Helken & Horn Advertising Company. Horn continues to build the company into the area’s dominant ad agency, with campaigns in diverse media. She’s deployed multimedia advertising strategies to drive sales for an untold number of local businesses.
There are many ways to lead in the Greater Prescott area. This month’s Prescott Pioneer news section highlights two women who recently moved into the top jobs at prominent local nonprofits — Patty Bell-Demers of United Way Yavapai County and Lesley Jenkins of Desert Southwest Chapter-Alzheimer’s Association. Yavapai County Community Health Director Leslie Horton’s recent win of a statewide award for achievement in rural health also is covered in the Prescott Pioneer.
It is that time of year when leaves change color and we enter into the “feel good” holiday season. It is a good time to reflect on all the accomplishments of our area leaders and strive for more in the coming years!
Elaine Earle Publisher, Prescott LIVING Magazine
Elaine Earle
THE PRESCOTT
Stories by Ray Newton
• PRESCOTT • PRESCOTT VALLEY • CHINO VALLEY • DEWEY-HUMBOLDT • PRESCOTT
Nebeker Sculpture Mounted on SR 89 Roundabout
The cowboy may be looking the wrong direction to see the buck deer in hiding, but his horse misses nothing.
Drivers in and out of Prescott, however, can see it all at the intersection of Deep Well Ranch Road with state Route 89. The bronze sculpture — the largest renowned Western artist Bill Nebeker ever created — is mounted high on a roundabout and visible from all directions.
When the 6-ton “If Horses Could Talk” sculpture was being hoisted by a large crane into place atop its concrete pad, Prescott resident Nebeker and his wife Merry stood nervously by, watching every twist and turn as the piece was being lowered.
“It was nerve-wracking for
both of us,” Merry said. “The cranes had to be extended so high that the airport required we put a warning flag on its tip to alert aircraft of its presence.”
Bill echoed Merry: “Our hearts were pounding as the crane lifted the sculpture from the flatbed semi into the air to swing it over to the mounting pad.”
When it was done, both Bill and Merry thanked all of those present for attending the Aug. 9 installation of Nebeker’s latest statue.
The Nebekers especially thanked Ed Reilly and his colleagues at Bronzesmith Foundry in Prescott Valley for their support in helping him cast the sculpture. He also praised their careful efforts in transporting and then in-
stalling the massive piece atop the roundabout.
Among those present were Ron and Laura James, whose family trust helped fund creation of the sculpture. Ron James said that morning, “We’re so happy to see Bill’s creation welcome people at this north entrance into the city. We’ll soon have the entire roundabout landscape appropriately, with a large descriptive plaque telling about its history.”
Prescott Mayor Pro Tem Billie Orr thanked the James family for its support. She also thanked the Prescott Area Arts Trust for its support.
Orr noted that while the roundabout is the property of Arizona Department of Transportation, it will be maintained by the City of Prescott.
Cost Plus World Market Doors Are Shut
Cost Plus World Market shut its doors this summer after 18 years in Prescott.
The specialty import store was located at 3320 Gateway Blvd., in Prescott Gateway Mall. Among its products were international food, home furniture, décor, gifts, jewelry, dinner and cooking ware, lighting, apparel, and imported wines and craft beers. It was one of the original stores when the mall opened in March 2002.
Cost Plus World Market had its beginnings more than 60 years ago on Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco. Founder William Amthor began by selling rattan furniture. His success prompted him to import other exotic merchandise, leading to opening other stores across the U.S.
Owned by Bed Bath and Beyond, Prescott’s was one of the 20 World Market stores to close. Prior to closure of these stories, 259 stores were functioning across 35 states. More than 1,000 of the parent Bed Bath and Beyond retailers in the country are still in operation.
PRESCOTT VALLEY
CHINO VALLEY
Bill and Merry Nebeker as they waited for the crane to hoist the massive statue.
New United Way Yavapai County Executive Director Gets to Work
Recently named United Way Yavapai County Executive Director Patty Bell-Demers has mounted an aggressive campaign to create positive fundraising for the 2020-2021 year.
Bell-Demers was selected in early August, replacing Annette Olson, who retired to her home state of Washington. Olson guided the local organization for four years, said board chair Mary Ann Suttles.
A year ago, United Way Yavapai County was able to invest $250,000 into 25 distinct nonprofit organizations. The organization also provided $15,000 in social enterprise grants to help with workforce development projects. The 2019 campaign goal was $280,000.
The anticipation is, even with complications created by the coronavirus pandemic, this year’s
campaign will equal or exceed those figures. Bell-Demers said the board will be announcing campaign details in the near future.
The nonprofit organization focuses upon supporting groups throughout Yavapai County that contribute to positive community health.
Located at 1678 Oak Lawn Drive, United Way Yavapai County is a volunteer-driven organization that focuses upon advancing the common good in communities throughout the county.
Bell-Demers came to Prescott from Carefree/Cave Creek, where she had been executive director of the Sonoran Arts League that oversees the Center for the Arts and Gallery at El Pedregal. She has more than 25 years of experience as a community leader.
A graduate of Arizona Chris-
tian University with a degree in business administration, Bell-Demers received the 2018 Business of the Year award from the Carefree-Cave Creek Chamber of Commerce. She and her
Patty Bell-Demers was named executive director for United Way-Yavapai County. Demers has more than 25 years in community leadership.
husband, Donald, have seven children and 10 grandchildren. For more information about United Way Yavapai County, call 928-778-6605 or visit https:// www/yavapaiuw.org
Drake Cement Gets EPA Energy Star Certification
Drake Cement LLC has received an Energy Star certification from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
This is the first time that designation has been given to the company. The plant is about 26 miles north of Prescott, just north of the rural community of Paulden on state Route 89. Towering chimney stacks are visible on the east side of the highway.
Certification is reserved for companies that perform in the top 25% of similar facilities nationwide for energy efficiency. Such firms must meet strict EPA-established energy effi-
ciency performance standards.
“Drake is pleased to accept EPA’s Energy Star certification in recognition of our efforts,” En-
rique Rozas, president and CEO of Drake Cement, said. “Through this achievement, we have demonstrated our commitment to environmental stewardship while at the same time lowering our energy costs.”
The Drake plant opened in June 2011. It produces two kinds of cement — one for general use and the other with a low-alkaline content. Both are forms of Portland cement and are manufactured in a “closed loop” system. Virtually no emissions or particulate matter enters the atmosphere.
More information about Drake Cement is available at www. drakeus.com.
Karen Fann
Arizona State Senator
For more than 27 years, Yavapai County resident Karen Fann has been an active and positive influence not only in the county but also the state.
Fann, a lifelong Republican, currently is a state senator representing District 1, which includes more than 8,000 square miles of Yavapai County and portions of Maricopa County.
What’s more, Fann is serving as the president of the Arizona Senate, a powerful role that lets her influence many of the major laws that impact residents within the Grand Canyon State.
Before being elected to the Senate in 2016, Fann had been an influential member of the Arizona House of Representatives, where she was first elected in 2011. Before that, she had been a council member and then mayor for the Town of Chino Valley from 2002 to 2009. Predating that, she had been a member of the Prescott City Council, where she served as mayor pro tem.
Her service in the Legislature has resulted in more than 40 awards, recognitions and honors, including being named Legislator of the Year, Leader in Public Policy of the Year, Woman of the Year, Best Elected Republican Representative, and Senator of the Year.
Fann Has Longtime Connection to Arizona
The Fann name has long been prominent in Prescott. When parents Jim and Sylvia Fann came
Making a Positive Difference— ‘That’s My Goal in Life’
Interview by Ray Newton
to Prescott in 1958 to rear their four children, the family almost immediately became involved in what was then a small community of around 10,000.The senior Fanns owned a contracting business that Karen’s brother Mike later turned into Fann Contracting. He lives in Prescott with his wife Tammy.
Sister Sarah Fann Bird has a graduate degree and lives with her husband Brian in Peoria. Her other sister, Gail Fann Thomas, earned a Ph.D. and lives with her husband Ken in Monterey, California.
For a brief period, the Fann family lived in El Cajon, California, where Karen graduated from high school. While there, she was an athlete, musician, student council
member and president of Y-Teens.
When her family returned to Prescott, she went on to a 10-year career with the airline industry, living in Los Angeles, Hawaii, Las Vegas and Phoenix.
She worked briefly as a legal assistant and the jury commissioner for Yavapai County but then decided to launch her own business in 1984. With $500 she had saved, in 1984 she began her own company — Arizona Highway Safety Specialists. In the 36 years since its founding, the company has grown into Arizona’s largest installer of guardrails and signage.
She has been married to Jim McKown for the past 13 years, although they first met 25 years ago by chance at the Palace Bar.
“Jim asked me to dance and we’ve been together since that night, realizing we had known each other most of our lives but never met.“
Jim was the owner of his own construction companies and was friends with Karen’s parents, sister and grandparents. Their wedding turned out to be a surprise during a family trip when they decided to get married in Kona.
“It was a great memory for all of us. Even now, we enjoy returning to Hawaii. Some great golfing there.”
A candidate for re-election during the upcoming general election in November, Fann, now in her mid-60s, shared her thoughts about public service and her obligation to the citizens of Arizona.
Four generations of the Fann Family with matriarch Sylvia Fann in the middle. Karen’s sister Gail’s family is on her right, Karen and her husband Jim are on her left, Karen’s sister Sarah’s family is just above Jim’s head. Mike and Tammy with her children and then Mike’s son Jason and daughter Audrey are the families with the small children on both ends.
The ROX Interview (continued)
PRESCOTT LIVING: You’ve been a legislator — representative and now a senator — since 2011. What is it that appeals to you about serving?
KAREN FANN: I never had intended in getting into politics. This was not my idea. But for some reason it worked out that way. I look back. I think it was supposed to be this way. I once had mentioned to my assistants that I was going to volunteer for planning and zoning or something like that. Once, when I was away skiing and, unexpectedly, a position opened up. They signed me up for a vacated Prescott City Council seat. That’s what started it.
I’ve said all along, even in my business and everything else, that God put us on this Earth to hopefully do something good and leave it a better place than when we came in. That’s always been a factor for me. I hope that when it’s time for me to leave this Earth, somebody will say “She made a difference. She contributed and she made a difference.”
PRESCOTT LIVING: Are there differences in serving in the House and the Senate?
KAREN FANN: In the House, there are 60 members. At least a third, if not more, are all brand-new people. It’s rowdier because there are 60 members, and some are younger. Also, some people prefer the House because it is exciting. There is
commotion going on all the time. When I moved over to the Senate, I didn’t like it the first three weeks. It was so quiet. I’d walk the halls and everybody’s gone at 5 o’clock. We’re done with our work.
We don’t go on and on for hours and hours on the Senate floor like they do over in the House. We only have 30 members, and most have earlier served some years in the House. So after about three weeks, I realized what was going on. The fact that we’re done in the Senate, and they’re still debating things at 10, 11 o’clock at night in the House — I decided I’m going to love the Senate.
PRESCOTT LIVING: Do you find your colleagues in the Senate are as memorable, friendly; as cordial?
KAREN FANN: Yes, and that is another difference between the House and the Senate. As a general rule, in the Senate we are more the mature body. I’m not saying that we’re a lot older, but we are the mature variety. We tend to be more respectful to each other, regardless of which side of the aisle we’re on.
We always try to keep that decorum. That’s one thing I insist on as a Senate president. I will not allow people to use the floor as a personal political stage to do something other than the people’s business. The House is not always that way.
PRESCOTT LIVING: Did you find fundamen-
tal differences between Republicans and Democrats in the Senate or the House?
KAREN FANN: No. Here’s the really sad thing about all of this. If you look at 80% to 85% of everything we do in the Legislature, it should be nonpartisan. It is budgets. It is education funding, public safety, infrastructure, roads — all of those really great things. I also will say it should never be political. Sometimes it’s so sad that we see politics get injected. Case in point last year: Because of ideological things, education has been a huge, huge issue for us for three years. Trying to get the teacher salaries increased, to get more money into education. Thank God our economy was doing great. That has been our No. 1 priority — to get back to the levels that we were in, in 2008, and to get caught up and put more in. Last year we put a much larger amount, and the Democrats over in the House voted no on the K-12 budget. We’re all just saying: “Why would you vote no for raises for teachers?” And they said, “Well, because our caucus, our Democratic caucus, says it’s not enough. So we are voting no.”
I don’t understand why we have to play those games.
PRESCOTT LIVING: What took you into the leadership position in the Senate?
KAREN FANN: It was kind of a fluke. Remember, I had not planned on being in politics, but it seems that it was just meant to be. The same thing happened with the leadership.
At the end of the second year of my freshman Senate term in 2018, we had Senate President Steve Yarborough. He was termed out, so he was leaving. The president pro tem was Debbie Lesko. During a special election, Debbie Lesko was selected to go to Congress.
The majority leader was Kimberly Yee. However, Yee ran for state treasurer and was elected, so she was gone. The whip was Gail Griffin. She was termed out, so she went to the House. We lost our entire leadership team in the Senate. Everybody was gone. We looked around to see who else was left who wanted to step up. There really wasn’t anybody there.
A big freshman class was coming in — eight freshmen coming in from the House. We had 17 Republicans, so that was half the body. So I just stepped up and I said, “I’ll
Karen Fann and husband, Jim McKown
do it. I’ll run for it.” I put my name in the hat and was elected. Here I am and I will be running again for Senate president.
PRESCOTT LIVING: What have been your major satisfactions as a legislator?
KAREN FANN: I started in 2011. That was at the tail end, coming out of the recession. During these last 10 years, we have worked so hard to turn this economy back around, getting people back to work, getting business startups.
Arizona is the No. 1 state in the nation for business startups — people coming and starting their businesses here. We do things like angel tax credits and limited regulation. We work with our chambers of commerce in rural Arizona, as well as the entire state. We are always pushing for economic development and more higher-paying jobs.
What happens when we do that? Not only does that build them up, and make them successful and strong, but we have now taken them off the unemployment and the AHCCCS, and the food stamps and all of the subsidy programs that are needed
so desperately when you don’t have a job. One of my favorite things in the Senate is when we generate debate on the floor. Last year we had the big ERA — Equal Rights Amendment — that started again. That is a very contentious issue, very contentious everywhere. There are important issues on both sides of that issue. So I was trying to figure out, “How can we have this conversation without it getting out of hand?”
I had some Democratic members that wanted to drop a bill that would equalize that. I had Republican legislators that said, “It’s a moot point because they’ve already run out of time.” But I knew this was important.
I went to Sen. David Bradley, the Democratic minority leader in the Senate. I said, “Here’s what I’d like to do, but I’m going to need your help with this. You know that bill is never going to see the light of day, because the votes aren’t there for it. But I know this is important to your members. And I know that my members would like to have this conversation as well.”
So I said, “Let’s pick a day when we’re
not really busy. We’ll do a day on the floor. I will give them all the time they want.”
We ended up with nine Democrats and nine Republicans who wanted to talk about it. We agreed, “OK, and here’s the deal. We’re going to get healthy debate. We’re going to rotate back and forth, and nobody’s going to go down any rabbit holes. We’re not going to be disrespectful.”
Of course, everybody got wind of it. The gallery was full of people on both sides. It was perfect. It went on for two hours and 45 minutes. It was polite, respectful. It was truly a lesson in real politics. I wish those galleries were full of high school and college students watching, because this is what democracy is really all about. That was probably my favorite two-plus hours in the entire 10 years I’ve been down there. PRESCOTT LIVING: What have been your disappointments?
KAREN FANN: I already mentioned part of it was the lack of decorum. It wasn’t that way when I started 10 years ago. People were a
continued on page 134...
Past Senate Presidents on the day she was sworn in as Senate President. L-R: Pete Rios, Leo Corbet, Carl Kunasek, Russell Pearce, Tim Bee, Ken Bennett, Brenda Burns, Bob Burns, Steve Pierce and Karen Fann (seated). Not pictured: Steve Yarborough and Andy Biggs.
CITY SPEAK IN PRESCOTT THERE IS ALWAYS SUPPORT WHEN YOU NEED IT
by Greg Mengarelli, Mayor, City of Prescott
During these incredibly difficult times, it is crucial that people find ways to support each other and provide for those in need.
This year has presented some of the greatest challenges many of us have faced. The COVID-19 pandemic has proven that working together and supporting our neighbors is vital to everyone’s success. While we have had to remain socially distanced and find new ways of living day-to-day life, we have also found ways to stand together and take joy in the little things.
I’ve said time and again that the resiliency and togetherness of this community is something I take great pride in and something that makes us truly unique in times of divisiveness.
All over Prescott we have witnessed members of the community supporting each other and joining together to solve problems. We have witnessed families having the opportunity to take time and enjoy the outdoors together in ways they hadn’t for years. Teachers and other educational professionals have developed solutions to allow our future leaders to continue learning, albeit in ways we didn’t anticipate experiencing. Public and private partnerships have been developing for the betterment of our community; and the city has the opportunity to use an infusion
of funding from the state to continue ongoing revitalization of Prescott in amazing ways.
While the strength and vibrancy of our town has been a true testament to what makes Prescott shine, it is no secret that the struggles so many of us face now put a burden on us all. Many of our local businesses have experienced closures and cutbacks, students are struggling with distance learning and the parameters of stay-at-home orders and limited in-person contact on many levels have been difficult for many members of our community.
But even in those darker corners, there is light and sources of help can be found. That is another beautiful part of this place; the resources available to our citizens are many. We are devoted to one another and it shows.
The Yavapai Justice and Mental Health Coalition has developed a website with a wealth of resources for members of the community in need of assistance. You can find a complete resource guide with details on avoiding isolation and domestic violence support at www.justicementalhealth.com. Arizona Together is another great website, with listings of state and local support services. Go to www.ArizonaTogether.org
In addition to the Justice and Mental Health’s onestop shop resources website, there are a number of other options available:
• The Yavapai County Information Hotline: 928-442-5103.
• The state COVID hotline: 211.
• Go to Yavapai.us/chs for daily COVID-19 updates.
• Go to www.AZDHS.gov for statewide health information.
• For employment & financial assistance go to www.ArizonaTogether.org
During these incredibly difficult times, it is crucial that people find ways to support each other and provide for those in need.
Although the location of this project has yet to be determined, you can count on it being in a great location and a wonderful addition to our park offerings.
PRESCOTT VALLEY ON THE MOVE WITH NEW INDOOR FOOTBALL TEAM, PARK AMENITIES, SPORTS TOURNAMENTS
by Kell Palguta, Mayor, Town of Prescott Valley
Hello everyone. I hope you all have had an amazing summer and you’re ready to roll into fall. Here in Prescott Valley, we’re moving forward, and we’re ever hopeful for the future.
We have some exciting news in Prescott Valley for sports lovers.
While in the past several months, the NBA G League Northern Arizona Suns team was sold to the Detroit Pistons — vacating the Findlay Toyota Center — one door closed and another opened. The Town of Prescott Valley is excited to announce we will be home to a team, yet to be named, in the Indoor Football League (IFL). This league is already home to the five-time national champs the Arizona Rattlers, as well as the Tucson Sugar Skulls. This league will give our residents and outside visitors a chance to experience fast-paced indoor football at a high level.
An interesting side note to this team is that the IFL will be allowing the residents of Prescott Valley to vote on the name of the team, as well as the colors of the uniforms.
Another fun and interesting event happening right now is that the Town is soliciting community input on the renaming of NAZ Suns Way off Glassford Hill Road, the main entrance to the Findlay Toyota Center. Who says that the only time to vote for anything is during election time in November? This is an opportunity for all citizens to go online and vote for their
favorite name. Vote at https://www.surveymonkey. com/r/GQ3LB85
As a father to 5-year-old twins, I am very excited to announce that Prescott Valley will be adding a public splash pad in a local park! This added attraction will give families an excellent opportunity to take their little ones to the splash pad to cool off in the heat of summer, all while enjoying the great weather that Prescott Valley has to offer. The best part is this family adventure will be free.
It is not often in today’s society that we hear about things that are so fun, free, and family-oriented. Although the location of this project has yet to be determined, you can count on it being in a great location and a wonderful addition to our park offerings.
Prescott Valley has also been on the radar for some recent great youth and adult recreation sports tournaments. In a span of 10 weeks, the community was host to eight separate tournaments ranging from 35 to 55 teams from New Mexico, California and Nevada. These tournaments have allowed Prescott Valley to show off our amazing athletic fields and other park amenities that help to make for an enjoyable tournament experience.
The next time you are traveling through Prescott Valley or stopping by for whatever reason, be sure to be on the lookout for these exciting new opportunities and amenities in our community.
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY TOWN OF PRESCOTT VALLEY
Prescott Valley’s new public Splash Pad will be similar to the one at Mountain Valley Park’s community pool.
From left: Trey Medlock, president of Prescott Valley’s new indoor football league, with Shane Cadwell, general manager Spectra/Findlay Toyota Center, Prescott Valley Mayor Kell Palguta, and Indoor Football League Commissioner Todd Tryon, during an Aug. 25 press conference announcing Prescott Valley’s new indoor football team to be named by citizens.
Although the golf head cover for a lefthanded Big Bertha 7-wood was recovered, the golf club itself was never found.
Murder in Prescott: The Case of the Left-Handed 7 Wood
by Sheila Polk, Yavapai County Attorney
Drive north on Williamson Valley to Bridle Path and you will arrive at the house of one of Prescott’s most notorious murder scenes. The murderer, once a well-to-do stockbroker named Stephen DeMocker, is serving a life sentence in the Arizona State Prison. His victim was his ex-wife Carol Kennedy, an artist and avid gardener.
On the evening of July 2, 2008, Carol was in her Prescott home chatting on the phone with her mother thousands of miles away in Nashville. Suddenly, her mother heard Carol exclaim, “Oh, no!” and the line went dead. Carol’s mother called the police when she and other family members couldn’t reach Carol.
Law enforcement arrived at the house to find Carol in a pool of blood, her skull shattered by at least seven blows to the head. The county medical examiner would later testify that the blows were similar in shape to a golf club.
The subsequent investigation revealed a motive and a vast array of circumstantial evidence. Although the golf head cover for a left-handed Big Bertha 7-wood was recovered, the golf club itself was never found.
After many legal delays, the trial finally commenced in a Yavapai County courtroom in downtown Prescott. Tragically, the original trial judge, Judge Thomas Lindberg, a longtime highly respected colleague of mine, collapsed on the bench during the trial. He was soon diagnosed with glioblastoma and passed away 18 months later.
A second trial began, and the Yavapai County Attorney’s prosecutors laid out the evidence for the jury: the nasty divorce; DeMocker’s obligation to pay $6,000 monthly alimony payments; his growing debt; his $750,000 insurance policies on Carol’s life; and Carol’s daily routine of a run in the woods behind her home. The scene was staged to look like Carol had fallen from a reading ladder in her living room, striking her head on the corner of a desk.
Uncharacteristically, DeMocker was out of mobile phone contact during the hours of Carol’s death. Shoe prints and bicycle tread marks located near Carol’s home matched DeMocker’s footwear and his bicycle tires, and DeMocker himself had scratched arms and legs.
A forensic exam of DeMocker’s computer revealed the purchase of books on how to evade authorities. DeMocker’s girlfriend would eventually lead detectives to DeMocker’s getaway bag with a burner phone and clothing stashed near the 8th hole of what is today called the Capital Canyon Golf Course.
From the county jail, DeMocker arranged for an associate to send an anonymous email to the sheriff claiming that gang members had killed Carol. DeMocker also claimed to hear voices through the jail vents telling him Carol was killed by two men from Phoenix.
In 2013, the second jury convicted DeMocker on all counts. Appeals followed, and on July 28, 2017, nine years after the murder, the Arizona Supreme Court upheld the verdicts.
And what of the missing golf club? To this day when I hike the trails north of Prescott, I can’t help but scan the landscape. Somewhere, down a ravine or perhaps buried under a pile of rocks, lies a weathered 7-wood, the murder weapon from one of Prescott’s most notorious murders.
Raffle Tickets $10 each, 6 for $50, or 12 for $100
Drawing to be held at our 8th Annual Western Heritage Banquet on Nov. 6, 2021 Need not be present to win
“BINDING CONTRACT”
Sold Out Limited Edition (Artist’s Copy Valued At $14,000) Donated To The Western Heritage Center
By
Bradford J. Williams
The Prescott Western Heritage Foundation sees this sculpture as a representation of trust, collaboration, good will, and teamwork with our neighboring cities and organizations in Yavapai County who support our passion to preserve and promote our western history and heritage. 100% of the proceeds will go towards the Western Heritage Center’s projects.
Raffle Tickets for This Valuable Bronze Sculpture Are Available In Our Mercantile.
Western Heritage Center
156 C South Montezuma St. (Historic Whiskey Row) Prescott, AZ 86303
Business Hours: Friday and Saturday 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Sunday 11:00 am - 4:00 pm.
www.VisitWHC.org
Prescott Western Heritage Foundation, Inc., is a charitable, 501(c)3 non-profit, all volunteer corporation
Traits Most Needed for Effective Leadership
by Sheri Heiney, President & CEO, Prescott Chamber of Commerce
Good leadership is crucial to success in the business world. Of course, a capable and effective leader must possess the right qualities. Certain traits are especially common among skilled leaders. Cultivating and developing these traits is a crucial part of becoming a strong leader. Here are six of the traits most needed for good leadership:
1. VISION
True leadership involves looking beyond today, to tomorrow and beyond.
2. OPTIMISM
A true leader must be able to inspire and motivate others. The quality most needed for this effort is an optimistic, upbeat attitude.
3. ADAPTABILITY
No single leadership style is right for all times and places. A different time or a different team might require very different things from a leader.
4. STRONG COMMUNICATION SKILLS
A leader must instruct subordinates on their work, correct their mistakes, provide inspiration and take feedback. For all these duties, good communication is required.
5. CONFIDENCE
A leader must be someone people can believe and trust in. And if someone wants others to have confidence in them, they
must have plenty of confidence in themselves to start.
6. DECISIVENESS
Decision-making is at the very heart of what it is to be a leader. A leader is the one who must make the final call, ultimately determining what course the team will take.
For more information about the Prescott Chamber of Commerce, please visit www.prescott.org or call us at 928-445-2000 or 1-800-266-7534, or stop by the Visitor Information Center located at 117 W. Goodwin St., Prescott, AZ 86303.
Exceptional Women Keep Chamber Ambassadors Strong, Energetic
by Marnie Uhl, President/CEO, Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce
Prescott Valley has long had a history of strong leadership by women in business. These women have volunteered and supported the mission of the Chamber and have contributed to its growth and impact on the businesses and community.
One committee of the Chamber, the Chamber Ambassadors, has been a beneficiary of these outstanding and committed women.
Jamie Goeringer became an Ambassador in January 2015 while she was the owner of SMARTgirls Resale Fashion. She credits CEO Marnie Uhl for inviting her to join as a way to more effectively engage in the community and market her business. For Jamie, being an Ambassador gave her, as a business owner, a fresh platform to meet people with the common ground of being a Chamber member.
Since that time she has been able to connect with more people and in the realms of business that has stretched her, and this wonderful group of people who were once strangers have now become her business family.
Jamie continues to be an Ambassador as the representative of her husband’s business, Orkin Pest Control. She recently has stepped into leadership as an officer of the Ambassadors, but Jamie has always been a leader in not only the Ambassadors and businesses but also the community. She was the founder of Hope Still Floats, a fundraiser for the Yavapai Family Advocacy Center and Julie’s Closet, a clothing bank within Yavapai Family Advocacy Center for women in need. Jamie was the recipient of the 2018 Community Excellence Award for Business Leader of the Year.
Heidi Fowler King is the owner of State Farm, Heidi Fowler Agency. She attended her first Chamber mixer in April 2011 and attended her first Ambassador meeting in May. Since that time, Heidi has been very active serving in leadership as Vice President for several terms.
Heidi says she has made amazing friend-
ship during her time as an Ambassador and plans to continue helping serve the businesses and community for many more years. In addition to her service to the Ambassadors, Heidi has held leadership positons for AWEE (Arizona Women’s Education and Employment, Inc.), the Highway 69 Chamber of Commerce, Bradshaw Mountain Lions Club and the Prescott Area Board of Realtors.
Lesa West is the owner of New Life CPR and has been in business for almost 36 years. She joined the Chamber in 2011 and became an Ambassador in 2012 to meet other business members and be part of the Chamber’s social and hospitality arm.
As Lesa says, “I try hard to keep this crazy group together” with mixers, ribbon cuttings and monthly meetings. Lesa has served as Secretary for several years and is always one to come up with fun new ideas to help our businesses and community. She loves the Ambassador group and what they do for the Chamber and community. She plans to be around a long time!
The Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce recognizes that its volunteers are priceless and appreciate those who go above and beyond in service and leadership as a Prescott Valley Chamber Ambassador.
For more information on the Chamber’s Ambassador program, contact Marnie Uhl at 928-7728857 or marnie@pvchamber.org.
Jamie Goeringer
Heidi Fowler King
Lesa West
Retargeting: Second Line of Defense in Digital Marketing
by Erika Yadron, Intern, Northern AZ Social, LLC
Retargeting reminds someone of your brand as they continue to web browse or go on social media.
Sources: How Retargeting Works. (2020). Retrieved July 20, 2020, from https://www.adroll. com/learn-more/ retargeting; What is ReTargeting and How Does it Work? (2020). Retrieved July 18, 2020, from https://retargeter. com/what-isretargeting-andhow-does-it-work
Retargeting, also known as remarketing, is a form of online advertising that keeps your product or service in the direct path of customers who previously visited a website.
Used through Facebook, Google, Yahoo and others, the key is to stick relevant ads that do not require buying in other websites during the potential customer’s web-surfing experience.
Retargeting attempts to reach the 98% of web users who do not convert to a website right away.
How does it work?
The technology is based on cookies, (a voluntary, small piece of data stored on your computer browser) and uses JavaScript code to track your target audience on their website visits.
A piece of code, or pixel, is placed on your brand’s site, ready to attach to an anonymous cookie.
When a potential customer visits
your site, but decides to leave, the code drops to a browser cookie carried with that user. This is repeated every time a new visitor comes onto the site, and the retargeting provider is notified on when to post an ad.
This is when your ad pops up on the side of their screen, reminding them of your website or the sale they recently viewed. Sound familiar? Gaining traction and recognition, the ad acts as a reinforcement factor to ensure the potential customer returns to your website.
Why is it important?
Retargeting proves effective because it focuses on the people who have previously demonstrated interest and optimizes the chances of them returning to the site.
Customers do not always buy, read or interact with a website in the ways a brand would like them to. Retargeting reminds someone of your brand
Erika Yadron Intern, Northern AZ Social
as they continue to web browse or go on social media. Creating a relevant advertising experience is important in a successful digital marketing strategy — and retargeting does just that as a conversion optimization tool.
With an implemented retargeting approach, “window shoppers” will turn into happy, interactive customers eager to engage with your brand’s website.
NORTHERN AZ SOCIAL’ S WOMEN IN BUSINESS
"I enjoy giving back to my community! It's a great feeling to provide results for growing businesses."
“I enjoy creating branding for customers that tells their story and showcases who they are in a way that is visually pleasing.”
“It is such a joy to be able to create art that integrates with technology to visually communicate for businesses in Northern Arizona.”
Social Media Expert
Helken & Horn Ad Agency Celebrates 25 Years in Prescott
by Blake Herzog
Tracey Horn grew up near the heart of the New York advertising world, with a father who spent 25 years in the business. In 2020 she’s celebrating 25 years heading Helken & Horn Advertising Agency in the Greater Prescott advertising world, considerably smaller but no less satisfying.
“I can’t believe it’s been 25 years. It seems like yesterday that we started the agency in a small downtown apartment. This community and the business owners we work with have been really good to us and I truly still love what I do,” she says, “And I hope I can do another 25!”
Horn moved to Tucson with her family as a teen after her dad retired. Because she missed its seasons, she was all set to go back and carve her own path in that New York ad industry when she graduated from the University of Arizona in 1994.
But since she’d never made it north of Phoenix during her eight years in Arizona, she decided she had to see the Grand Canyon.
“I happened to drive through Prescott and I went, wait a minute, what is this? I fell in love with it, like a lot of people do. “And I thought, ‘Oh my gosh, this reminds me of the historical and quaint towns back East. You know, I need to find a job here,’” she says.
After a year working for a struggling agency, Horn met Robin Helken, a copywriter, and they launched Helken & Horn in August 1995. Helken left town two years later, while Horn has kept the firm going under that name by herself.
“When I say all by myself, I’m the responsible party, but there is no way I could have accomplished everything these past twenty five years without people like my writers, designers & creative art directors. Without all the creative team around me, there’s no way I would be where I am today.”
A full-service ad agency
Horn doesn’t have any staff, instead turning to her go-to freelancers for each particular job, depending on their fields of expertise.
And there are a lot of jobs — print ads, TV and radio commercials, longer-form video, logos and other branding, plus websites, online ads, SEO and social media — all for local businesses, plus political campaigns for state Sen. Karen Fann, Yavapai County Supervisor Rowle Simmons and Prescott Mayor Greg Mengarelli among others. She was also instrumental in helping on the Prop 443 initiative.
Horn prefers working in the “offline” formats to online,
though the latter has been particularly useful for getting word out about all the shutdowns, reopenings and other shifts her clients have had to deal with this year.
“It’s a great, instant way to market, but I still find happiness in the traditional because it’s more creative to me than ads that you see flat on the screen. And I think traditional is here to stay, especially in our communities, because people still like to pick up a newspaper, and they still like to listen to their favorite radio station here,” she says.
Horn is especially proud of her role in launching downtown Prescott’s New Year’s Eve Boot Drop tradition, which was sparked by Horn’s memories of the Times Square ball drop and Flagstaff’s pine cone version.
“I was born on New Year’s Day, so my friends would always drag me out on New Year’s Eve for my birthday. There just weren’t too many festivities going on and I felt Prescott was prime for a new
holiday event,” she says.
She oversaw the first 40-foot drop of the 6-foot boot in 2011, which drew 4,000. After two more years she turned it over to M&M entertainment, but still volunteers every year. Attendance has grown to 10,000.
But watching her clients’ sales jump remains her most gratifying work: “I get to really experience a variety of businesses and appreciate what they go through on a day-to -day basis to keep going. It’s their baby, it’s their passion. But I get to go in and be a part of that. And that’s pretty darn cool.”
Local Director ‘Camping’ it Up with Western Comedy Series
by Blake Herzog
Prescott film director Patrick Ball is hoping his new TV series will help to promote the city’s Old West vibe while giving viewers some comedic, escapist fun.
“I haven’t done a TV comedy series before, I was going to do a war film around here,” Ball says. “But I decided you know what, there’s so much drama and, you know, violence and ugliness in the world. Let me do something that’s nice. Let me do something that makes people laugh and puts a smile on people’s faces.
“So a comedy just poured out of me. I clearly had it working and bottled up subconsciously.”
The result is Horse Camp; he and co-writer Joseph Carver finished writing eight 30-minute episodes in about a month. It’s set on a dude ranch in fictional Cane County, Arizona, but has been filmed almost entirely in Prescott, the bulk of it on a ranch in Williamson Valley.
The Prescott Kiwanis Club makes an appearance, as do Watson Lake and the Granite Dells. Production was about halfway complete before it was shut down by pandemic restrictions, during which Ball wrote Seasons 2 and 3.
Filming resumed in September beginning with some small shoots as the crew and cast worked with new guidelines being adopted by the film industry. It’s scheduled to wrap up by the end of October, then goes into post-production.
Ball says he plans to license the first season to streaming platforms like Amazon Prime and Netflix for release starting Jan. 1, 2021 and hopes to produce up to six more seasons. He’s seeking local investors and sponsorships for Horse Camp.
Ball, who moved into Prescott this summer after two years living outside Chino Valley, says, “Prescott’s one of the best places to make a movie. That’s why I stuck around here to do it. Working with the city’s easy. It’s insanely beautiful. This used to be the western capital of the world. Hey, I’m trying to get that back the way it used to be,” he says.
Ball has worked with horses since he was a kid, and they remain one of his two pas-
sions alongside filmmaking. His latest project brings the two together.
He said much of the material is drawn from his experiences during the five years he worked at a dude ranch. “A lot of the stuff in the script was stuff that happened to me in real life or inspired by,” he says.
The pecking order that tends to develop among dude ranch staff inspired some of the humor, while other gags are just gags, like a turtle being outfitted with a very obvious camera to spy on a rival camp.
“It’s a goofy, silly comedy,” he says. Trailers and scenes from Horse Camp, some TVMA-rated, have been released on YouTube.
Horse Camp’s stars include Nicole Zuelke, who has been featured in many outdoors-oriented ad campaigns and projects, and Sean Dillingham, whose credits include Better Call Saul and Brooklyn Nine-Nine.
While a few of his cast and crew members came from as far away as New York, Ball
says the majority are local or from Phoenix. Heather Swaim and Laine Murphy lead the list of Greater Prescott performers featured in Horse Camp.
Ball says Prescott Center for the Arts was a “huge help” in holding auditions to find young actors for the 10 child roles in the script.
He has spent more than a decade in the industry and through his production company, Patrick Ball Media, is getting ready to release a TV movie, Tick Tock, early this fall. He also directed C-Bar, an hourlong outlaw-themed Western available on Amazon Prime.
Patrick Ball Media also offers video production services to outside clients.
Once Horse Camp is completed, Ball says he may well go back to ranching, as he often does between projects.
“You rebuild your spirit and your strength back. And in those downtimes I’ll usually do a lot of ranch work. It’s healthy. It’s fun. It’s therapeutic. You know, keeps you in shape.”
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Special Section:
WOMEN IN THE WORKFORCE
he women Prescott LIVING is featuring in this year’s Women in Business section have much in common — talent, leadership skills, pride in the community we all call home, plus grit and determination.
TThey are CEOs and CFOs, healthcare practitioners, entrepreneurial shop owners, service providers, financial professionals, social service providers, government leaders and more. They built their careers from the ground up, either by moving up
he role of women in the workforce and of work in women’s lives has changed dramatically over the past 50 years. By 1970, 50% of single women and 40% of married women were in the workforce. It was during that decade that younger women began to anticipate they would spend much of their lives in the labor force in pursuit of a career rather than becoming a homemaker or taking jobs when the family needed additional cash. This led more women to attend college and earn advanced degrees in preparation. Regulations became more favorable with the passage of the Pregnancy Discrimination Act in 1978.
In December 2019, women made up just over 50% of the workforce, a level they had been hovering around for the past few years. The majority are college graduates and hold 29% of senior managerial positions. They make up 75% of human resources managers, the highest of any sector. Thirty-two Fortune 500 companies now have a female CEO.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey, 2017
within their employers’ companies or starting a business/company of their own. You might recognize some of these women, but many are likely new to you.
Occupations for Women
ELAINE EARLE
Publisher & Chief Executive Officer, ROX Media Group
Elaine Earle is an accomplished publisher and management professional with 23 years of experience working in public accounting, IT consulting, management, public relations and publishing on behalf of major corporations and also as a principal of her own enterprises.
Elaine graduated from the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting in 1997 and passed the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) examination immediately thereafter. Her 23 years’ work as a CPA prepared her for her current role as Chief Financial Officer of ROX Group, a business group that she owns with her husband. It includes companies with operations in the real estate, insurance, travel, construction and media industries. In addition, Elaine currently serves as Chief Executive Officer and Publisher of ROX Media Group (RMG).
In the Prescott area, RMG publishes Prescott LIVING Magazine, Prescott Healthy Living, Prescott NOW!, as well as custom publications including for the City of Prescott - the Visitors Guide Greater Prescott Area and the Prescott Economic Development magazine, and the Prescott Chamber of Commerce Community Guide & Directory.
Personally, Elaine has a passion for traveling, and has been to over 50 foreign countries. Many more travels are planned, and now frequently include her 13-year-old twin sons. Elaine and her husband, Rock, are deeply committed to their family, and enjoy spending quality downtime together in addition to their dedication to operating and growing their various companies.
Julie Turetzky Public Relations & Marketing Manager
NANCY HINSON
Owner, The Grand Highland Hotel
The legendary fire of 1900 destroyed Historic Whiskey Row and much of the rest of Downtown Prescott. One hundred ten years later, a second fire in May 2012 led to the rebirth of the Grand Highland Hotel.
Nancy Hinson came to Prescott 38 years ago. Her background is in the healthcare industry; she retired as a hospital administrator ten years ago. When the building was destroyed by the fire in May 2012, Nancy came out of retirement to help reconstruct the building into the hotel it is today.
The newly rebuilt hotel, family owned and operated, contains 12 rooms – each historically themed based on Prescott’s history. The unique indoor and outdoor event venues, the Holiday Courtyard and Holiday Ballroom, host weddings, corporate and private events.
IRMA CASTILLO BONNETT
Owner, Fly-U Shuttle Service
Irma is originally from Mexico but has lived in the United States since 1986. She graduated from Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila in Torreon, Coahuila with a medical degree in dentistry.
Moving to the U.S. was difficult, she didn’t speak the language, the culture was entirely different, and the only person she knew was her husband. Eventually, Irma learned English and was able to have a very successful career in the dental industry for 15 years.
After retiring from the dental industry, she and another teacher founded La Tierra Community School in Prescott where she taught Spanish for seven years. She resigned to return to Mexico to care for her ailing mother. After
her mother’s passing, Irma returned to the U.S. to further explore her entrepreneurial spirit. Irma found herself ready to stop working for other people and become a business owner. Fly-U Shuttle Service has given her that opportunity. Irma recognized the need luxurious and professional transportation. Fly-U Shuttle now provides transportation between the Prescott area and Flagstaff, Sedona and Phoenix, as well as providing medical transportation to Algodones, Mexico.
The struggles she overcame when she moved to the states gave her the work ethic and commitment needed to make the Fly-U Shuttle Service the success it is today and to provide the greatest service possible.
3250 Gateway Blvd, Suite #252 Prescott, AZ 86303 928-445-8880 www.fly-u-shuttle.com
CATHY STONECIPHER
Guidance Helicopters & Guidance Air
Catherine Stonecipher was born in Queens, New York to immigrant parents from Bogota, Colombia. She graduated magna cum laude from Grand Canyon University with a bachelor’s of science in business administration and management. She was a detention officer at the Yavapai County Sheriff’s
Office and transitioned into financial exploitation investigations for the Arizona Department of Economic Security She ran into her future husband at the gym and her world changed to aviation. John Stonecipher launched his helicopter flight school, Guidance Helicopters, Inc., in 1998. He and Catherine added Guidance Air Service in 2016, which flies
helicopter tours in Prescott and Sedona. It has been named the No. 3 Best Helicopter Tour in the U.S.A. by USA Today. Catherine is the administrative director for Guidance Air and offers a discount to residents of Prescott, Prescott Valley, Chino Valley and Sedona.
More details are available at www. guidanceair.com or 928-351-1000.
JILL HUNSUCKER
Jill Hunsucker has been a devoted real estate professional for the past 17 years and couldn’t imagine doing anything more rewarding. She is a consistent multimillion-dollar producer and absolutely loves working and living in Prescott. She is committed to working closely with her clients to assist them in finding the perfect home or property to build their dream home on!
Jill is also co-owner (with her husband Kevin) of Elk Ridge
Development, LLC, a contracting company specializing in building stunning custom homes and homesites tailored to clients’ specific desires.
When Jill is not spending quality time with her family, she enjoys bow hunting, hiking, off-roading and going kayaking in local lakes. She truly believes the City of Prescott has so much to offer and feels privileged to be a part of its thriving community. Jill loves showing this historical city on a daily basis to her clients.
The team of women at Mandalay Homes Realty has a passion for building homes that promote health, comfort, style and livability while lowering energy costs and reducing carbon footprints.
Mandalay is the most-awarded builder in the nation for energy efficiency and a
Mandalay Homes - Prescott AZ
leader in indoor air quality. The company holds 15 honors from the Department of Energy for housing innovation, five awards for indoor air quality, and has been Energy Star Partner of the Year for three years.
Mandalay remains the leading Zero Energy Ready builder, with over 800 certified homes built.
Mandalay is home to amazingly talented women who help make this success possible.
Mandalay is building in The Granite Dells Estates, Jasper and Mountain Gate, with new communities coming to Prescott Valley and Flagstaff.
PARSHALLA WOOD
The Haugland Group/Ameriprise Financial. The Haugland Group, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise FInancial Services, LLC, Financial Advisor
Parshalla Wood has called Prescott her home since 1977.
She is proud to be associated with a firm known for its service and how it relates to clients, because serving your interests is her priority.
She offers comprehensive financial advice and a broad range of solutions to help you and your loved ones live brilliantly, now and in the future.
She is available to meet by phone or online and will continue to hold all client meetings as scheduled. The health and well-being of clients is a top priority.
Parshalla enjoys life by golfing, gardening, exercising and reading and has a collection of self-help programs and systems. She invites you to stop in for a second opinion on your current portfolio at the independent franchise office of Ameriprise at 3613 Crossings Drive, Suite B, Prescott.
Sheri Rogers and her husband Darrin purchased Rogers Academy of Beauty in October 2016. Owning a cosmetology school has been her lifelong dream. She has been in the beauty industry 35-plus years and has been directing schools for the past 30. Education for her students is her true passion. Sheri believes a career in the beauty industry gives students the ability to change their lives.
The couple has two daughters, Jesica Patterson and Megan Crissinger. Both have followed in their mother’s footsteps as cosmetologists. Jesica is the newly appointed compliance director and Megan is the school director. Son-in-law Brent Crissinger completes the team as the admissions director. Sheri is excited to have the Academy be a family business as well as a great place for her students, staff and clientele.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Rogers Academy of Beauty
2375 E. State Route 69, Prescott 928-848-9929
http://www.rogersbeautyschool.com/
AYMEE WILSON
Owner Wilson Aesthetics Beauty + Wellness
Aymee Wilson is a RN and has been an aesthetic injector since 2015. She graduated from Estrella Mountain Community College in 2010 with her associate’s in nursing and Grand Canyon University with her bachelor’s in nursing in 2016. She believes in creating natural and youthful results for patients of all ages. She believes in continuing education to learn, grow and improve her aesthetic skills through safe practices.
Aymee wished to create a space where patients could be treated with utmost kindness and respect while being pampered. Whether they’re looking for a facial, teeth whitening, Botox, IV Hydration or waxing, clients are guaranteed a wonderful experience.
Aymee grew up in Cottonwood. She is happiest traveling, spending time with her family and enjoying time at the lake. Fun fact – she and her husband are working on getting their private pilot licenses.
928-350-5484
https://www.wilsonaestheticsaz.com/
DONNA WERKING
Owner & Marketing Strategist
Northern AZ Social, LLC
Donna moved to Prescott, Arizona in 1995. She holds fifteen years of traditional advertising and digital marketing experience. Her agency produces the most powerful and innovative marketing strategies for web, social and traditional media. Werking fosters trust between clients and their customers to enrich the exchange of products and services. As Northern Arizona’s premier full-service agency, she develops custom programs with unsurpassed detail.
Over the last 25 years, Werking has supported her community by donating valuable time on committees and volunteering. She has supported local events and charities including, but not limited to; YRMC’s Celebrate Life Health Expo, Whiskey Off-Road, Whiskey Row Marathon, Co-founded the Whiskey Row Boot Drop in 2009 and more. Werking has been an ACFYC committee member. She is a Prescott & Prescott Valley Chamber Member. She performed as a celebrity dancer in 2018’s Dancing for the Stars as a fundraiser. She held the title as Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona Marketing Chair. Donna was recently named a top finalist in 2020’s Prescott Athena Awards.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Donna Werking
201 N. Alarcon St., Suite C, Prescott NorthernAZsocial@gmail.com www.NorthernAZsocial.com
Special Section: Women in Business
MICHELLE BECK & MARIA GANNON
Owners, Purple Clover
Purple Clover was established in February 2018 by Michelle and Maria. Longtime friends and fashion lovers, both were ready for a new challenge. After surveying the Prescott retail landscape, it became clear to them that “everybody’s hometown” could use more options in clothing, jewelry and accessories. Besides carrying recognizable name brands, Purple Clover seeks out unique items from smaller companies and designers.
One of the greatest joys for both Michelle and Maria is finding something special and bringing it into the boutique. Both ladies love their location in the historic Bashford Courts mall and being a part of downtown Prescott. Purple Clover truly has styles for customers of any age. In their charming 1,500-squarefoot shop there is a true variety of casual items for everyday wear, special occasion dresses and even athletic clothing suitable for hiking and yoga. With autumn in the air and new items arriving daily, now is the perfect time to visit Purple Clover.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Michelle Beck & Maria Gannon
130 West Gurley St # 205, Prescott 928-499-5195
MARGO CHRISTENSEN
Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations, Ponderosa Hotel Management Services
Margo Christensen oversees marketing, advertising, public relations, corporate sponsorships and social media for Ponderosa Hotel Management Services (PHMS). She began her career with PHMS in 1997 as director of sales in Flagstaff. She became general manager, regional sales director, and then
vice president of marketing and public relations for all properties. Ponderosa owns and manages five hotels in Arizona; two in Flagstaff, two in Prescott and one in Sierra Vista.
Margo served on the Board of Directors for the Arizona Lodging and Tourism Association 2010-2019. She was Board Chair of the Prescott Chamber of
Commerce in 2018 and is currently Board Chair for the City of Prescott Tourism Advisory Committee, 2017-2022. She also serves on the City of Prescott Commission on Airport Passenger Terminal Art, assisting with the acquisition of public art.
She enjoys traveling, hiking and paddle boarding, gardening, cooking and collecting cookbooks.
CONTACT INFORMATION: Ponderosa Hotel Management Services 222 South Cortez, Prescott, AZ 86303 928-776-9780 • http://www.ponderosahotelmanagement.com/
DEBI WALKER
Owner, Debi Walker Permanent Cosmetics
Debi Walker has been in the beauty industry for more than 40 years. She is a licensed esthetician.
Since 1998, she has been a permanent makeup technician, instructor and was the founder of the Sacramento Permanent Cosmetic Institute. She ran a successful full-service salon in Sacramento, California for over 20 years and has now brought her talents to her studio in beautiful downtown Prescott.
Debi has performed thousands of procedures including
eyebrows, eyeliner, full lip color, medical tattooing, scar camouflage and 3D areola repigmentation for breast cancer survivors.
She is a Certified Permanent Cosmetic Professional (CPCP) with the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professional and the American Academy of Micro-Pigmentation. She holds numerous certifications in every aspect of permanent cosmetics. She has instructed hundreds of students to a successful career in permanent makeup.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Debi Walker Permanent Cosmetic 916-768-0185
227 N. Cortez St., Prescott https://www.debiwalker.com
ROBIN BINKLEY
Agency Principal Binkley & Associates, LLC
Robin Binkley feels blessed to own and operate Allstate Insurance & Financial Services agencies in Prescott Valley and Cave Creek.
The agency has been recognized numerous times as a Premier Servicing Agency and National Champions ranking No. 291 out of over 10,700 agents throughout the nation. Robin is a six-time recipient of the Allstate Ring of Honor. She attributes this success to God, her loving and supportive family, her longtime team of licensed agents, and loyal clients.
She and her husband also own Prescott Window Coverings, a full-service dealership specializing in mid-range to high-end window fashions including automation with a showroom on Iron Springs Road and service facility on Spire Drive.
Robin enjoys hiking in Northern Arizona, loves to travel and practices fundamental martial arts, stating it is a great way to get into mental and physical shape.
CONTACT INFORMATION: Robin Binkley
7749 E. Florentine Rd., Suite A Prescott Valley • 928-772-0322
RobinBinkley@allstate.com
Police Chief Given Leadership Award
by Ray Newton
Named by the Arizona Capitol Times as Arizona Public Safety Leader of the Year, Prescott Chief of Police Debora Black was praised for her “long legacy of dedicated and innovative service within the public safety industry.”
The award was presented in virtual ceremonies Sept. 30.
Black was named chief of police in Prescott in July 2016. Prior to that, she had been Glendale Chief of Police; and before that, an officer with the Phoenix Police Department for 25 years.
Black commented upon receiving the award, “I am coming up on 40 years in law enforcement this November, so to be recognized at this point in my career is very special.”
She also said, “It was a complete surprise. I had no idea I had been nominated. I don’t believe this is based on anything I have done individually, but rather a recognition of the work we have been doing collaboratively in the community to respond to individuals experiencing mental health and substance use disorders.
Black is the first woman to serve as a chief of police in Prescott.
Her professional achievements and activities over the years have been many. Among them:
• Executive Fellow for the Police Foundation.
• Vice President for the Arizona Association of Chiefs of Police.
• Member, Yavapai Justice and Mental Health Coalition.
• Advisory Board Member, Coalition for Compassion and Justice.
• Member, Council on
Criminal Justice.
• Member, National Institute on Drug Abuse Practitioner Board.
Black also is involved in Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters and in Prescott Women Who Care.
When he learned of the award, Prescott Mayor Greg Mengarelli said, “Congratulations to Chief Black. We have been privileged to witness her
exemplary leadership in her role as our chief of police for the past several years.”
Black was among other outstanding citizens from throughout Arizona recognized by the Arizona Capitol Times in 14 categories that ranged from Arts and Culture to Transportation.
Michele Hyatt ‘The Color’ Superpowers: Patience, Power Tools, Tall Ladders Horticulture heavy-hitter for the brightest bloomers and vigorous veggies. Animal lover, football, tomato techie, the steady voice of garden reason.
Her X-ray vision spots irritating insects or the fungus among us.
Doreen Storz ‘The Numbers’
Superpowers: Beach Camper, Crafter, Glue-Gunslinger Book balancer, number cruncher and accountant extraordinaire. The wizard behind the back-office curtain. RV traveler, Maltese rescuer, jewelry maker, community volunteer. Able to leap mountains of paperwork in a single bound.
FANTASTIC &
Lisa Watters-Lain ‘The Heart’ Superpowers: Compassion, Sarcasm and Star Trek knowledge
General manager, mother, dog lover, frequent loser of garden gloves, fierce community supporter. Plant professional who identifies local plants and what’s ailing them faster than a speeding bullet.
The fiery force behind merchandising, designs and new looks. Devoted doggie mom, lover of outdoors, Sci-Fi, wordsmithing and gardener. Cheerleader who believes in the Watters team and pulls them together.
DAWN HORNELAZ
President/Owner,
Dawn Hornelaz is a lifelong Arizonan, calling Prescott her home for 35 years. Growing up in the furniture business, she developed an early passion for interior deign and learned the value first hand of providing good customer service.
As the advertising voice of Joe’s Furniture, Dawn takes pride in carrying on this legacy of a fourth-generation family business. After gaining business education from ASU and knowledge from managing another successful business Dawn returned to Prescott in 2004 to join her father Joe to help further grow the family business.
Joe’s Furniture is proud to be one of Prescott’s longest Chamber of Commerce members and has continually put customers and community first. The business has supported numerous local charitable organizations over its 65-year history.
Dawn’s dedication to seeking out the latest and unique designs, shines in the remarkable 20,000 sq.ft showroom. Joe’s Furniture is the proud recipient of the Daily Courier’s ‘Readers’ Choice Awards for #1 Furniture Store’ for two years in a row, and recently received ‘Arizona’s Furniture retailer of the year.’
Joe’s Furniture CONTACT
Joe’s Furniture 3787 Karicio Ln, Prescott, AZ 86303 928-778-7593
https://www.joesfurnitureaz.com/
& RITA CAREY RUBIN
Founders, DSMT Associates, LLC
Kim Friend, RN, BS, CDCES, and Rita Carey Rubin, MS, RD, CDCES, founders of DMST Associates, provide virtual diabetes education and care services fine-tuned over decades of working with people from all walks of life, with every type of diabetes. They understand how diabetes can challenge a person’s life and aim to help individuals find a way of living, eating and managing diabetes that is personalized and sustainable.
Rita has been a registered dietician for nearly 30 years, with 17 years as a certified diabetes care and education specialist (CDCES). She is a certified eating psychology coach and culinary coach as well. Kim is a registered nurse, experienced in insulin regimen optimization, insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor management, with 25 years as an RN and 15 as a CDCES. Both Kim and Rita are experienced and certified insulin pump trainers.
Over the past 30 years, POSC has saved patients more than $150 Million! Of that amount, $20 Million would have been out of pocket.
Dr.
Overall Patient Satisfaction: 9.8 out of 10!
Dr. Mark
GENERAL
778-9190
Dr. Katie Campuzano 778-4300
Dr. Adam Feingold 776-8428
Dr. Luis Fernandez 776-8428
The choice is yours. Choose one of our excellent Prescott based surgeons for your outpatient surgical needs. You will save money and have the best possible care available.
“The best I have experienced! POSC even topped Duke Medical Center which I have always rated highly. Thanks to the staff.”
Overall Patient Satisfaction: 9.8 out of 10!
“Everything about the place was excellent. Very clean, very professional, very organized and efficient. Thank you for the great care!”
“The best I have experienced! POSC even topped Duke Medical Center which I have always rated highly. Thanks to the staff.”
“Everything about the place was excellent. Very clean, very professional, very organized and efficient. Thank you for the great care!”
“Everyone was awesome. My stress level was zero! Loved the nurses. Linda was so sweet and really awesome. Great experience overall. Thank you all!”
Dr. Jonathon Gruneich 778-9770
Dr. Josephine Kim 583-1000
Dr. Melinda Martin 777-0070
Dr. Richard Ohanesian 778-4300
Dr. Jeffrey Osburn 778-4300
Dr. Jeanette Pilotte 583-7887
INTERVENTIONAL PAIN SPECIALISTS
Dr. Jonathon Gruneich 778-9770
Dr. Bradley Benson 445-4818
Dr. J. Gabriel Tsang 237-9312 ORTHOPAEDIC SPECIALISTS
Dr. Daniel Burchfield 778-9250
Invest Your Healthcare Dollars Wisely!
Invest Your Healthcare Dollars Wisely!
Overall Patient Satisfaction 9.9 out of 10!
“Everyone was awesome. My stress level was zero! Loved the nurses. Linda was so sweet and really awesome. Great experience overall. Thank you all!”
Invest Your Healthcare Dollars Wisely!
Dr. Bradley Benson 445-4818
Dr. J. Gabriel Tsang 237-9312
Over the past 31 years 114,000 procedures have been successfully performed at POSC, saving patients more than $160 million! Of that amount, $21 million would have been out of pocket expenses.
Over the past 30 years, POSC has saved patients more than $150 Million! Of that amount, $20 Million would have been out of pocket.
ORTHOPAEDIC SPECIALISTS
Invest Your Healthcare Dollars Wisely!
Over the past 31 years 114,000 procedures have been successfully performed at POSC, saving patients more than $160 million! Of that amount, $21 million would have been out of pocket expenses.
The choice is yours. Choose one of our excellent Prescott based surgeons for your outpatient surgical needs and you will not only save money, but will have the best possible environment and care available.
“When I need surgical help, I will always come here. My phone call from Karen was a real delight. When I saw her in recovery I told her she sounded like a song. My anesthesiologist was just great and took time with my questions. I really liked my visit!”
Dr. Daniel Burchfield 778-9250
Dr. Bertrand Kaper 778-9250
Dr. Judah Pifer 778-9250
Over the past 30 years, POSC has saved patients more than $150 Million! Of that amount, $20 Million would have been out of pocket.
The choice is yours. Choose one of our excellent Prescott based surgeons for your outpatient surgical needs and you will not only save money, but will have the best possible environment and care available.
Dr. Bertrand Kaper 778-9250
Dr. Siamak Rassadi 308-4285
Overall Patient Satisfaction 9.9 out of 10!
Dr. Judah Pifer 778-9250
Dr. Siamak Rassadi 308-4285
Dr. Bradley Williams 445-7085
“When I need surgical help, I will always come here. My phone call from Karen was a real delight. When I saw her in recovery I told her she sounded like a song. My anesthesiologist was just great and took time with my questions. I really liked my visit!”
Dr. Bradley Williams 445-7085
PLASTIC SURGEON
The choice is yours. Choose one of our excellent Prescott based surgeons for your outpatient surgical needs. You will save money and have the best possible care available.
Dr. Derek Hewitt 778-9190
EAR, NOSE AND THROAT
PLASTIC SURGEON
Dr. Mark Strasser 778-9190
Dr. Derek Hewitt 778-9190
“Thank you for all the great care you gave me, everyone was awesome made me feel like I was the most important person in there! Thank you all so very much for taking care of me.”
Dr. Brian Brantner 776-0325
“Thank you all for the great care you gave me, everyone was awesome made me feel like I was the most important person in there day! Thank you all so very much for taking care of me.”
PHYSICAL MEDICINE
SURGEONS
Dr. Brian Brantner 776-0325 PHYSICAL MEDICINE
Dr. Mark Strasser 778-9190
Dr. Thomas Hirasa 771-1011
“Joanne the pre-op nurse is awesome, really made me feel at ease. The head anesthesiologist was really terrific and put me completely at ease.”
Dr. Bradley Benson 445-4818
The choice is yours. Choose one of our excellent Prescott based surgeons for your outpatient surgical needs. You will save money and have the best possible care available.
SPINE SPECIALIST
Dr. Daniel Noble 778-9250
UROLOGISTS
Overall Patient Satisfaction: 9.8 out of 10!
Dr. Donald Huang 771-1011 Dr. Frank Iorio 776-8212
“Joanne the pre-op nurse is awesome, really made me feel at ease. The head anesthesiologist was really terrific and put me completely at ease.”
Dr. Bradley Benson 445-4818 SPINE SPECIALIST
GENERAL SURGEONS
Dr. Thomas Hirasa 771-1011
Dr. Thomas Rusing 445-9660
“This was my 2nd surgery at POSC in 2 months. Both times I received excellent care. Everyone was professional, courteous and all had a great sense of humor. I cannot think of any area that needs improving as I feel 10’s were to be given to everyone there.”
Dr. Paul Nguyen 771-5282
“This was my 2nd surgery at POSC in 2 months. Both times I received excellent care. Everyone was professional, courteous and all had a great sense of humor. I cannot think of any area that needs improving as I feel 10’s were to be given to everyone there.”
Dr. Jeffrey Sanwick 771-5282
Dr. Michael Stanick 771-5282
“The best I have experienced! POSC even topped Duke Medical Center which I have always rated highly. Thanks to the staff.”
Dr. Donald Huang 771-1011 Dr. Frank Iorio 776-8212
Dr. Katie Campuzano 778-4300
Dr. Daniel Noble 778-9250 UROLOGISTS
Dr. Thomas Rusing 445-9660
Dr. Adam Feingold 776-8428
Dr. Paul Nguyen 771-5282
Dr. Jeffrey Sanwick 771-5282
Dr. Luis Fernandez 776-8428
GYNECOLOGISTS
Dr. Michael Stanick 771-5282
Dr. Josephine Kim 583-1000 Dr. Melinda Martin 777-0070 Dr. Richard Ohanesian 778-4300 Dr. Jeffrey Osburn 778-4300
Dr. Katie Campuzano 778-4300
Dr. Adam Feingold 776-8428
Dr. Luis Fernandez 776-8428
Dr. Josephine Kim 583-1000
“Everything about the place was excellent. Very clean, very professional, very organized and efficient. Thank you for the great care!”
“The best I have experienced! POSC even topped Duke Medical Center which I have always rated highly. Thanks to the staff.”
Dr. Melinda Martin 777-0070
Dr. Richard Ohanesian 778-4300
Dr. Jeffrey Osburn 778-4300
Dr. Jeanette Pilotte 583-7887
“Everyone was awesome. My stress level was zero! Loved the nurses. Linda was so sweet and really awesome. Great experience overall. Thank you all!”
“Everything about the place was excellent. Very clean, very professional, very organized and efficient. Thank you for the great
INTERVENTIONAL PAIN SPECIALISTS
Dr. Jonathon Gruneich 778-9770
Dr. Bradley Benson 445-4818
Dr. J. Gabriel Tsang 237-9312
ORTHOPAEDIC SPECIALISTS
Dr. Daniel Burchfield 778-9250
Dr. Bertrand Kaper 778-9250
Dr. Judah Pifer 778-9250
Dr. Bradley Williams 445-7085
PLASTIC SURGEON
Dr. Brian Brantner 776-0325
PHYSICAL MEDICINE
Dr. Bradley Benson 445-4818
SPINE SPECIALIST
Dr. Daniel Noble 778-9250
Sanwick 771-5282
Michael Stanick 771-5282
Naturopath
Dr. Katie Borchert began her natural healing studies when she started her yoga practice almost 20 years ago. She became conscious of how the body reacts when it is out of balance. She earned her Master’s in Oriental Medicine and Naturopathic Doctor degrees in 2013 from National University of Health Sciences in Illinois. She built up her practice over six years before moving to Prescott Valley.
She works with patients of all ages, getting great results with acupuncture, cupping and plant-based medicine. She lives a naturopathic lifestyle, with regular meditation, yoga and qi gong, nature, raw foods, resting and connecting with the body for optimal vitality. She offices out of Prescott and Prescott Valley at: Partners in Healthcare, Naturally, 343 S. Montezuma St., Prescott; Synergy Wellness Center, 1590 Willow Creek Road, Prescott; and Synergy Wellness Center, 8200 E. Jacque Drive, Prescott Valley.
Judy is a Realtor with a passion for selling homes.
With over 21 years in the business, she feels her greatest success is not in the volume sold, but in her clients’ trust, praise and referrals. She serves Prescott and the surrounding communities, helping people realize their real estate goals and dreams. Selling downtown lofts, log homes, new construction, palatial estates, cabins, land and ranches gives her the experience you expect in a top-notch, professional Realtor.
Judy has an interesting background. Prior to real estate,
she was a registered nurse and earned degrees in business and psychology. She traveled the world as a public speaker for over 20 years, delivering motivational speeches and seminars on a variety of topics.
Judy has written a column, “Around the Bluhmin’ Town,” for the Prescott Courier for ten years. In 2015 she won the prestigious Best Column Award from the Arizona Newspapers Association.
Judy loves only one thing more than real estate and that is people; she enjoys making friends, one house at a time.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Judy Bluhm
Realty ONE Group Mountain Desert 100 E Sheldon St, Ste 200, Prescott 86301 602-826-3215 • www.JudyBluhm.com judy@judybluhm.com
BREE SIPLA
Owner, Apricot Lane Boutique
Apricot Lane is a women’s boutique franchise in which owners take the lead on tailoring their stores to their communities. The Prescott store is the first in Arizona.
Owner Bree Sipla was drawn to Apricot Lane because it’s a faith-based company that emphasizes community service and working to prevent sex trafficking nationwide.
Apricot Lane in Prescott is a multigenerational boutique where mothers and daughters can each find something special. While the bulk of the inventory is clothing, Apricot Lane also features shoes, costume jewelry and other small gifts, plus a line of CBD skin-care products. Most everything is priced at $100 or less.
Bree is a 1994 graduate of Chino Valley High School. Although she left town for a couple of years, she recently returned to Prescott, her true home. It’s really important to her and her family to be a part of this community.
CONTACT INFORMATION: Bree
Sipla
ROBIN RIESBERGCOUCH
Owner Your CBD Store Prescott
Robin Riesberg-Couch is virtually a Prescott native — her family moved to the area in the early 1970s when she was still in the single digits in age. She attended Dexter Elementary, Granite Mountain Junior High, Prescott High School and took classes at Yavapai College. After moving away for a while, she returned several years ago to be close to her parents. After spending her adult life working for others or assisting others in starting their businesses, she decided it was time to finally start her own. Your CBD Store opened June 15, 2020, at the northwest corner of Mt. Vernon Avenue and Gurley Street. She’s always had a passion for helping people; now she is able to do so using CBD and her knowledge and experience with it. This has been a difficult year for everyone, and she’s grateful Prescott has welcomed her store with open arms.
MAREN PATRICK
Owner, Mary&Ed
Maren Patrick was born and raised in Western Massachusetts. After attending college in Boston, she moved to Seattle and worked in corporate retail until 1999 when she opened her first independent venture, a home furnishing store in Ellensburg, WA. Maren ended up in AZ and discovered Prescott, making a permanent move in 2019, she never thought she would venture into retail again but fell in love with the downtown square and the welcoming community, and soon Mary&Ed was launched.
Mary&Ed is named after Maren’s Grandparents; their 1937 wedding photo hangs in the store. Maren believes that her target customer is someone just like her, a woman who wants to look good, dress well and be super comfortable. Mary&Ed carries women’s clothing, accessories (jewelry, scarves, hats and bags), and a variety of unique gift items. The goal is to be a gift giver’s destination and to have something for everyone.
CONTACT INFORMATION: Mary&Ed
210 S. Montezuma St., Prescott, AZ 928-277-1972
https://shopmaryanded.com
ANGIE SUMNER
Commercial Associate Broker, Better Homes and Gardens-BloomTree
Angie Sumner recently merged her commercial real estate brokerage Sumner Commercial Real Estate, with BHGRE-BloomTree Realty. The merger allows her clients national and worldwide exposure of their commercial real estate listings and investment properties. Angie has relocated her main office to the second floor of the National Bank building, corner of Hwy 69 and Glassford Hill Road.
She has been listing and selling commercial real estate in the Quad-City area since 2008 and has lived in the Prescott area since 1988. She has been involved in the growth of Prescott Valley and the Prescott area by volunteering on a number of boards and commissions. Currently, she serves as the commercial director for the Prescott Area Association of Realtors and as a state director for the Arizona Association of Realtors.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Better Homes and Gardens - BloomTree 2825 N. Glassford Hill Rd. Suite B Prescott Valley, AZ 928-925-0661 - Cell
THE WOMEN OF HOME RIGHT AND RENT RIGHT
This brilliant, capable and professional group of business women run Rent Right and Home Right; one real estate brokerage offering two real estate solutions, property management and sales.
Rent Right manages approximately 600 residential rental units in Greater Prescott, and Home Right sells over $25,000,000 in real estate annually.
Their efforts, client care and compassion result in:
• 2020 3rd annual Prescott Chamber Business Awards: Excellence in F/I/R/E Award
• 2019 2nd annual Prescott Chamber Business Awards: Business Woman of the Year
• 2019 Prescott Area Young Professionals: Visionary Award
• 2019 Daily Courier Readers’ Choice Awards: Best Property Management Company
• 2019 Daily Courier Readers’ Choice
Awards: Best Real Estate Company
• 2019 City of Prescott: Prescott’s Best
• 2018 Daily Courier Readers’ Choice Awards: Best Property Management Company
• 2016 Healthy Prescott Busines Award: Most Philanthropic Business
Put
THE WOMEN OF BELLA HOME FURNISHINGS, PRESCOTT
Bella Home Furnishings is Prescott’s oldest Interior Design Firm — established in 1985. The furniture store and interior design business is in downtown Prescott, Arizona. All furniture is custom made using high-quality materials that will stand the test of time.
With more than 20 years of experience in the industry, the team’s tastes are eclectic but highly discriminating. The store carries one-of-a-kind items from across the United States and beyond, and items range from furniture from Victorian-era India to authentic wall hangings from Africa.
Bella Home Furnishings offers a varied selection of contemporary and antique pieces to match any design aesthetic. It also offers in-home design services to make your home truly unique.
The wonderful team at Bella Home Furnishings is ready to help add beauty and character to everybody’s home.
Welcome!
The Chino Valley Women in Business had an Event at Compass Training Center. They were given firearms safety and training lessons then followed it up with lunch and some brews at Insurgent Brewing Company.
PHOTOS BY MAGGIE TIDABACK
BETH PALERMO
Owner, Whiskers Barkery
Beth Palermo began her career in Southern California working in sales and management with wholesale optical lens manufacturers. During this time, she met and married her husband David. She has a son and daughter who both live in California.
Beth began raising and showing AKC Champion Maltese, and what started as a hobby became her passion. Beth groomed small dogs and trained puppies, too. After living in California most of
her life, she decided she wanted to make a life change and pursue a career working with dogs. When she and David found Prescott, they knew they had found their new home because there were dogs everywhere! Their search for business opportunities brought them to Whiskers Barkery, which they came to own in March 2020. Beth has loved the adventure of owning her own business and the joy of spending every day with all her furry friends.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Beth Palermo 928-776-8700 225 W. Gurley St., Prescott www.whiskersbarkery.com
MEET THE LADIES O F
DANA SCHOT T
Marketing Consultant Event Coordinator
Dana was born and raised in Prescott, AZ where she proudly attended Prescott High School. Dana holds an Associate’s Degree from Cottey College, a private women’s school in Nevada, MO, and a BA in Finance from the University of Arizona. Dana is happily married to Steve Schott and spends much of her time with her two children, Sarah Jane and Chaz.
LAUR A DELAHUERTA
Registered Assistant
Laura is a native to Arizona and Yavapai County. She has been in the financial industr y and with the firm since 2012. Laura holds a FINRA Series 7 License and Series 63 in the state of Arizona.
KAY BAKER
Office Manager
Registered Assistant
Kay Baker She has been with the firm for 17 years and holds a BA in Public Administration from Northern Arizona University, as well as Series 7 (General Securities Representative), and Series 66 (Uniform Combined State Law) Licenses. She has lived in Prescott for 47 years and was the city’s Finance and Budget Director.
AMY GARBO
Receptionist
Marketing Assistant
Amy Garbo has worked for Schott Financial Management for 3 years and has been in the industry for 6 years. Prior to that, she spent 15 years in the fashion industry, first as a model agent and then as the Director of Click Models in Boston, MA. Amy also has a 20 year background in marketing and studied Marketing and Public Relations at Emerson College.
WHITNEY JAMES, MD
Owner, Dr. Whitney James Neuromodulatory Surgery
Melding the art and science of medicine, Dr. Whitney James applies outpatient surgical solutions to alleviate brain, spine, and peripheral nerve damage resulting in acute and chronic pain. She specializes in the treatment of spine fractures, neck, back and sacral pain, cancer pain, peripheral neuropathies, migraine headaches, Botox and stem cell therapies. She is known for her in minimally invasive surgical procedures with outstanding aesthetic results. Having completed sixteen years of medical study, Dr. James’ milestone achievements include a Bachelor of Science in neuroscience from Bates College in Maine; a research fellowship at the National Institutes of Health; a Fulbright Scholarship for medical research in Colombia; a Master’s in health science and international health policy from Johns Hopkins University; a Yale University Doctor of Medicine degree; and an active Doximity Scholar. A married mother of two, Dr. James lives in downtown Prescott and balances her love of family with her passion for wellness and the neurosciences.
CONTACT INFORMATION: 3191 Stillwater Dr. Suite B Prescott, AZ 86305 928-212-1479 www.drwhitneyjames.com
BRENDA HERSHKOWITZ
Brenda Hershkowitz began her accounting career while attending Wickenburg High School, receiving school credits and a paycheck working with a CPA. She attended Northern Arizona and is an Enrolled Agent. An Enrolled Agent is a federal designation meaning she is enrolled to practice before the Internal Revenue Service. This allows her to
represent clients in all areas of taxation, audits, collection issues, and many others as well.
For over 30 years, Brenda worked in the tax and accounting field in Arizona and Wyoming. In September 2016, she opened Premiere Tax and Accounting Services, PLLC, in Wickenburg. The firm provides tax preparation and accounting services, payroll services, tax planning, installment
agreements, offers in compromise, and representation before the IRS.
Growing up in Wickenburg, Brenda visited Prescott often; she opened her second location in September 2019 on Willow Creek Road. Brenda is the chairperson of the Finance Committee for the Town of Wickenburg and Vice President of the Margot Fonteyn Academy of Ballet in Prescott.
DEBBIE MARANVILLE
Co-Owner
The Natural Healing Garden & Goods from the Garden, Catering & Events
Debbie and husband Richard are celebrating 10 years in business with The Natural Healing Garden and 5 years in business with Goods from the Garden, Catering & Events.
Debbie is a certified herbalist and has a passion for culinary herbs. She and her team celebrate the power of the plants with their recipes. Sharing the “culinary experience” has been a focal point of Debbie’s passion.
She is an ambassador for the Prescott Chamber of Commerce and member of Prescott Area Women Who Care, Prescott Kiwanis and the Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce, as well as supports other local organizations. On behalf of her organization, she thanks the Greater Prescott community for its continued support.
The couple plan on opening In Season Deli in the fall, featuring deli favorites with a twist. It will be at the Prescott Gateway Mall.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
The Natural Healing Garden 928-237-4116
119 Garden St., Suite C, Prescott www.naturalhealinggarden.com
TRACY SCHEFFER
Owner Blushing Cactus Photography
Tracy Scheffer is a versatile photographer specializing in live music, weddings, corporate events and portraits. Based in Prescott, Tracy started Blushing Cactus Photography in 2016 when she realized she is happiest with a camera in her hand. She draws inspiration from the world around her and believes the power behind an image comes from a balance between human emotion, light and environment.
Having covered a wide range of large events from music festivals to corporate galas and rodeos, Tracy brings a unique perspective to every shoot and loves sharing her passion through her art.
Blushing Cactus Photography was recently voted “Best of Photography” in Prescott LIVING and named one of the “Top 10 Instagrams to Follow” by Phoenix New Times. Tracy has brought her husband, Jeremiah, on board and they love capturing life together and telling meaningful, visual stories for their clients.
Imagine the busiest hotel in Prescott and double the number of guests — the big difference is these resort-goers have fur and four legs! Since her humble beginnings, Heidi Archambault built her career around independent businesses, the pet industry and hospitality.
Managing a high-volume, 24-hour-a-day operation has its challenges and Heidi employs only exceptional, well-trained people who can adhere to strict, consistent standards. “There is freedom in discipline and consistency, and it is the key in all working relationships both professionally and personally. We strive to be the best by remembering our best practices, every day,” she says.
Heidi is a vegan chef and believes deeply in health and wellness both personally and for animals. She balances her work/social life with yoga, hiking, traveling, strength training, water sports and spending time with her man and their dogs.
THE ALL FEMALE MANAGEMENT TEAM OF OPTIMA MEDICAL - NORTHERN ARIZONA
As one of the leading Primary Care Medical Groups in Yavapai County, employing over 75 local residents and serving over 22,000 patients throughout their 6 locations, Optima Medical recognizes and promotes the achievements of strong, talented, and remarkable women who are making their mark on the Yavapai
healthcare community.
This all-female management team possesses many distinguishing qualities that allow them to work closely with the members of our community and provide a personalized healthcare experience. Together, these women make informed decisions, approach problems from different angles and find the best possible solutions.
Delores Tracy, Crystal Nissen, Elise Rillos, Cally Camacho, Christina Hernandez, and Robyn Victoria (pictured, from left to right) call Yavapai County home and are proud to serve in an industry that our community relies on now more than ever. Working with Optima Medical has given them the opportunity to make a lasting impact and pioneer the future of local healthcare.
TRACY HOMER
Owner French Hen Boutique
Tracy Homer brings a lifelong passion for style and home decor to the French Hen Boutique on Prescott’s Whiskey Row. Filled with beautiful, glittering treasures, your eyes will immediately be drawn to the collection of French chandeliers mingled with the latest in fashion designer trends in clothing, jewelry and handbags. You’ll find an array of fragrant candles, lotions, gifts and home accessories gift wrapped in her signature style.
Tracy serves on the Board of Trustees for Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters; she has chaired the Grand Gala Dinner and Auction for the past five years. Tracy was a founding member of YBBBS’s Women of Influence; she’s also a member of the Prescott Republican Women’s Organization.
Tracy says she feels blessed to live in the beauty of Prescott doing what she loves most amid her loyal customers, charitable work, gardening, faith and family.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
French Hen Boutique 108 S Montezuma St, Prescott, AZ 86303 928-445-3424
CHRISTINE STREVELER
Yoga is a way of life — a way of being mindful and present in your surroundings. The practice on the mat is one piece of that. Through Your Soul Shine, Christine Streveler has tried to create a community of support, acceptance and love. The
goal is not to “touch your toes” but to become the best version of you: Be Free, Be Loved, Be You.
Christine and her pup moved to Prescott from Chicago last summer. She spent her childhood years in Colorado and simply missed the sunshine, fresh air and wind in
her hair. She says there’s something about growing up in the mountains that never left her soul. The best way she describes it, is that Prescott found her.
Christine is a certified health and wellness coach, 200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher, reiki master and nutritionist.
Owner, Your Soul Shine
Artwork by Tyler Ashe (Tylerashe.com) & Tajal Tolan available for purchase.
Special Section: Women in Business
TRICIA IRWIN
Owner Watson & Willow Boutique
Tricia Irwin is an Arizona native, wife, mom and the owner of Watson & Willow. After 10 years of working in retail, both in small boutiques and large scale retailers — learning the ins and outs of the industry — she proudly opened her own shop in 2019 in downtown Prescott.
Watson & Willow has allowed Tricia to combine her unique background of retail experience, her love of small business and connecting with customers, and her creative spirit and infuse them into every element of the shop to create a unique experience for every person who walks through the door. She strives to curate a selection of high quality, fashionable clothing, both minimalistic and feminine, that caters to the women of Prescott.
CONTACT INFORMATION: Watson & Willow 928-237-1227
107 E Gurley St., Prescott (new location) www.watsonandwillow.com
CARIE HUGHES
First Lady to the Mayor of Dewey-Humboldt
Carie Hughes brings a gift of contagious energy that fills any room. She’s a retired surgical dental assistant and now owns Cherry Creek Ranch Event Center in Dewey. In addition, she is a Realtor with Keller Williams Biltmore and a dancer, singer and choreographer with Prescott Center for the Arts for over 32 years. She has performed in local movies, commercials, and for four years with dancing with the stars. She volunteers in the com-
munities by raising money for scholarships and charities. Her second year as Arizona State Cowbelle President takes her to local, state and national events as she supports the cattle industry. She is active with Repulican Women of Prescott, Yav GOP, Arizona Federation of Republican Women and first lady to the Mayor of Dewey-Humboldt John Hughes With strong faith, love of her husband, and the blessings of their daughter, she truly lives life to the fullest.
PRERNA
O’HARA
Owner Scarlett’s Curated Boutique
Prerna O’Hara was born and raised in Singapore and lived in many other countries. With more than 37 years of diverse and successful business experience in retail ownership/management internationally and throughout the United States, Prerna decided to open a store in Prescott. Being an O’Hara, she knew she had to name the boutique “Scarlett’s.” What makes the boutique unique is that consignment
items are curated by Prerna and her clients from all over the world. The boutique features new and preloved women’s clothing and accessories ranging from Chico’s to Chanel.
Prerna lives in Prescott with her husband, Walter Strzelewicz, and two cats, Miss Scarlett and Rhett Butler. She has served on the boards of many charitable organizations, and Scarlett’s Curated Collection is a proud sponsor of the Boys and Girls Club here in Prescott.
BLUSHING CACTUS PHOTOGRAPHYWALT RICHARDSON AT THUMB BUTTE DISTILLERY
BLUSHING CACTUS PHOTOGRAPHYSUMMER CONCERT SERIES ON THE SQUARE
BLUSHING CACTUS PHOTOGRAPHYAUTUMN HITSON BIRTHDAY
ALICIA WEAVER
ANDY MITCHELL
BANOOK RODARTE
BOB SHANKS - MONSOON
BOB SHANKS - SUNSET
CHERYL STRAKA - PRESCOTT FLOWERS
RONNIE FORTUNE
BOB SHANKS
BOB SHANKS - MONSOON
CAROL FAHY - MONSOON
DAISY MARTIN - SUNFLOWERS
DARYL WEISSER - SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
DARYL WESSER - GOLDWATER LAKE
DARYL WEISSER - MALE PRONGHORN
DARYL WEISSER - OLSON’S EQUIFEST
KELLI TREVIRANUS
DAVID ROMO - CHINO VALLEY
ROD HENDRICK - MONSOON
SUE PRARIO - STORM CHASING
Prescott’s Vision, Mission for Well-Being Progresses through Pandemic
by Billie Orr, Mayor Pro Tem, City of Prescott, and Lori Kennedy, ERAU Communications Coordinator
In January the foundation was laid for creating Prescott’s Commission on Well-Being. While this had been a goal for Mayor Pro Tem Billie Orr since she first read the Gallup Report on Well-Being in 2017, there were many other pressing issues taking precedence.
Then, with City elections completed, tremendous progress made on preserving the Granite Dells, and a prosperous outlook for economic development and tourism on the horizon, New Year 2020 was the ideal time to finally facilitate the creation of the Commission on Well-Being. The first step was to solidify support from individuals within diverse organizations who had
indicated willingness to serve in a voluntary capacity. Mayor Greg Mengarelli supported creating the Commission and appointed nine commissioners who have met twice a month or more to move this effort forward.
First Tasks: Vision, Mission and Outreach
The first tasks were to craft the vision and mission statements and design opportunities for outreach to the community. Several events were planned and opportunities were created to partner with organizations that supported the five branches of Well-Being: Purpose, Community,
Social, Financial and Physical.
Suddenly, though, everything came to a halt in March with the devastating impact of the novel coronavirus COVID-19. Planned events and new partnership prospects were off the table as communal opportunities to gather literally shut down. However, the Prescott Commission on Well-Being understood the merit of measuring well-being during these difficult times of COVID to identify the areas of support needed in the community.
So, like many organizations, the commission adapted and responded thoughtfully about how to continue community outreach, and the work carried on through technology and virtual meetings.
Webpage and Survey
The Commission continued to design the Well-Being webpage on the City’s website and the Well-Being Survey. The webpage turned much of its focus to defining the branches of Well-Being and providing a list of resources within each branch. Many of those resources were in response to COVID-related needs in the community. The short survey addresses two or more questions on each branch of Well-Being to gather feedback from residents. There also was the design and printing of a brochure. So, while many of the original plans were altered or discarded, the Commission has made great progress and is poised to respond to the survey results and the many comments from residents.
The Commission continues to support many organizations that have navigated Prescott through the pandemic.
An organization that supported children and families in essential services is the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona. Led by Executive Director Nicole Kennedy, the program
Jade
allowed first responders and healthcare workers to tend to community needs, knowing their children were in good hands.
Another organization directly related to Well-Being is the Prescott Farmers Market, led by Kathleen Yetman. They opened a downtown midweek market on Sept. 2 that will run Wednesdays through Dec. 30. Located at the southeast corner of Goodwin and Montezuma streets, hours are 2:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Bert Ijams and her team at Meals on Wheels Prescott continued to provide nutritious, freshly prepared meals daily through curbside pick-up and weekly delivery to their homebound clients. We appreciate their volunteers who also provide wellness checks and precious moments of companionship.
These are all organizations that along with the Commission on Well-Being were nimble and progressed through the pandemic.
Welcome Dr. Sam Downing
Commission Chairman John Murphy, Vice Chairman Peg Travers and Billie Orr met with Dr. Sam Downing to discuss ideas about how to make an impact and
engage the residents who live, learn, work and play in Prescott in the lifelong pursuit of well-being through communication, motivation and action. The Commission is thrilled to announce that Dr. Downing has accepted the request to be an adviser and assist the Commission going forward. Dr. Downing specializes in palliative and geriatric medicine and is currently working on a Geriatric Assessment Center planned for early next year to service our older population.
Your Help is Requested
Please take a few minutes and complete the Well-Being Survey that can be found at www.prescott-az.gov/ city-management/programs/well-being
Aryan, Rhonda, Teleah & Ellie
Mathieu
Juan and Keeton Aguiar pose in their booth at the Prescott Farmers Market. Juan and Keeton are entering their second year of growing vegetables and flowers at their farm, Blooming Reed Farm, in Paulden.
Staff and volunteers for Meals on Wheels Prescott practicing social distancing.
Where’s the State’s Money? Arizona Treasurer Kimberly
by Ray Newton
Yee Knows
As one of the state’s top six elected constitutional officers, Arizona Treasurer Kimberly Yee oversees cash management of the $40 billion state budget. That entails making certain payments are directed to the correct state agencies, local governments and schools.
Beyond that, the office of the Arizona State Treasurer operates four local government investment pools that handle funds from the various cities, towns, counties and multiple government agencies. Tack onto that the responsibility of supervising management of $19 billion in state assets.
She shared many of her experiences with Prescott LIVING during an interview in August.
Yee is the first Asian-American to be elected to statewide office in Arizona, as well as the first Asian-American woman elected to the Legislature.
A native of Phoenix, she graduated from Pepperdine University in Malibu, California, where she majored in English and political science before earning a master’s degree. Following graduation, she accepted a fellowship to work during in the mid-1990s in the administration of Gov. Pete Wilson. Her responsibility: to learn more about improving public education. Her reason for choosing that emphasis, she said, was because her mother had been a 38-year public school teacher in Phoenix.
“I learned a great deal about how important it is to give children the opportunity to begin learning at an early level. Schools should not be for babysitting or child care. Children need experiences that stimulate brain development,” she said.
Yee returned to Arizona for five
years, where she worked for the Senate Education Committee. However, when Arnold Schwarzenegger was elected as governor in California, Yee returned to Sacramento to become his deputy cabinet secretary.
“Leaders there were trying to reform a bloated government. There was a lot of duplication, and they really needed to bring their financial house into some kind of order,” she recalls.
Soon after, a strong tug was pulling her back to Arizona. A friend of hers, former Sen. Dean Martin, had been elected state treasurer, and he asked Yee to return to help him. She did.
“Working in that office just as the financial crisis of 2008 was happening — an incredible experience. We saw quickly how much money was coming in and how much was going out. It didn’t take us long to figure that the volume of incoming money was not the same as that going out the door because of big government spending.”
She continued, “The real message I learned when I worked for Treasurer Martin was this: Keep your financial house in order. Don’t spend more than you make. That’s a simple message, and we learn it in our own households. But sometimes, government forgets that lesson because the leaders forget it is not their money, it’s taxpayer money.”
Yee said she was also influenced by a longtime state legislator, Linda
Gray, who had served 16 years in the Arizona House and Senate. Gray persuaded Yee to run for a seat in the House of Representatives in 2010.
Yee served in the House for two years and then ran for and was elected to the Senate. She soon was chosen as Senate majority leader — only the second woman to hold that position. The first was Sandra Day O’Connor, who later was named to the U.S. Supreme Court.
In 2014, Yee was named a “Rising Star” by the national committee of the Republican Party. In 2016, she was a featured onstage speaker at the Republican National Convention.
Her continuing interest in the need for fiscal responsibility in Arizona government prompted her own run for state treasurer in 2018. She took office at the beginning of 2019 and immediately began traveling throughout Arizona to learn firsthand what the issues were in the various communities.
As she explains it, “Because our state is so
diverse, it’s important for those of us who come from the Phoenix Metro-centric area to get out and see what it is like in the rural communities. They are unique and have distinctly different needs. That’s why in my first year, I made a point of traveling to all 15 counties and meeting with the people there.”
Noting she has two more years to serve, Yee emphasized she would not relent in continuing to represent the entirety of the Arizona population.
She added, “We have a highly skilled investment team advising us, too. We’re carefully putting our investment dollars where they will do the most good for the public. For instance, we distributed $342 million into the K-12 education system last year and $358 million this year. And more money goes into the higher education system. Same is true for funds being distributed to the Arizona Pioneers Home, the Arizona State Hospital and the state prisons. The permanent land
endowment deposits our Arizona land sales into the Permanent Land Endowment Trust Fund, thus assuring secure and sensible use of those dollars.”
Yee smiles broadly when asked about her future plans.
“I just want to make a difference. So much has been given to me in this great state and country. I just want to dedicate my career to public policy and improving the opportunities we have. I’m optimistic that we are going to come out of the current pandemic stronger and faster than people expect, so we need to have people in positions where they understand how important it is to keep our fiscal house in order. That’s my immediate focus.”
Yee demurred in responding to rumors she’s considering a run for governor in 2022:
“I’ve had this question before. But right now, I am the state treasurer, and that’s where my efforts will be directed. I love the work that I do.”
“I just want to make a difference. So much has been given to me in this great state and country. I just want to dedicate my career to public policy and improving the opportunities we have.”
Arizona Treasurer Kimberly Yee provides an interview at ROX Media Group’s Prescott office.
TRACEY HORN
President Helken & Horn Advertising Agency
Tracey Horn launched Helken & Horn Advertising Agency, Inc. in Prescott 25 years ago. Since then, Tracey’s creative team has developed more than a 1,000 campaigns for businesses and political candidates in Northern Arizona.
Tracey grew up around New York City’s ad world, where her father was in the business. She graduated from the University of Arizona with a degree in fine arts and media. Instead
ERIN MABERY
Executive Director, Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters
Erin Mabery is deeply rooted in the history of the Verde Valley, as her family has lived in Yavapai County for decades. Erin has led a wonderful team of passionate, innovative and knowledgeable people through what has been the biggest professional challenge of most people’s careers.
She is grateful for her years of experience working with families throughout Northern Arizona in different capacities as she has used this knowledge
to better serve during the pandemic. For more than 20 years, Erin has advocated for children and families and led teams to learn ways to innovate and persevere, which has readied her for this current challenge.
Her spirit of collaboration shows as she serves on the boards of directors for the Cottonwood Chamber of Commerce and MATFORCE, a substance abuse coalition. Her passion to serve children and families has never wavered.
of returning to her roots, she explored Arizona and fell in love with Prescott.
Helken & Horn has won Telly awards, Silver Microphones and Best Ad Agency in the Quad Cities for six years in a row. Tracey was named Volunteer of the Year by the Arizona Community Foundation of Yavapai County in 2015 and is currently on the advisory board. She created Prescott’s New Year’s Boot Drop in 2011 and volunteers for the event every year.
SHERRIE HANNA
Women’s Leadership Chair Yavapai County Farm Buraeu
As the Women’s Leadership Chair for the Yavapai County Farm Bureau and a member of the Arizona Farm Bureau Women’s Leadership Committee since 2016, it is Sherrie’s honor to represent Yavapai County at local, state and national events to promote the importance and lifestyle of the American farmer and rancher. She is also a member of the Arizona Farm Bureau Labor Relations Board. The committee meets monthly to plan events to
HELEN PASLAY DNP, FNP-C
Board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner Office of Dr Whitney James Neuromodulatory Surgery
Helen Paslay has worked in health care for more than 14 years. She has cared for her patients in primary care, emergency medicine, outpatient surgery, solid organ transplantation and pain management settings, with eight years of her experience acquired at the Mayo Clinic (Phoenix campus).
She graduated with honors
from Grand Canyon University, obtaining her bachelor of science in nursing, master of science in nursing (family nurse practitioner), and doctor of nursing practice. Helen is skilled in joint, bursa, trigger point, trigger finger, stem cell, platelet and Botox injections, as well as intrathecal pain drug pump management and spinal cord stimulator implants.
educate, promote and salute farmers and ranchers for their contributions to rural communities. As Arizona’s agriculture is a $23.3 billion a year industry, the committee also meets yearly with our legislatures at the State Capital to promote issues important to agriculture.
Sherrie is proud to be affiliated with the bureau, working at a grassroots level with schools, farmers and ranchers to build a sustainable future of safe and abundant food, fiber and renewable fuel for our state, nation and the world.
ABBY McCARTY
Head of School, BASIS Prescott
Abby McCarty, BASIS Prescott Head of School, believes in building strong connections within the Prescott community. It’s vital, she says, that teachers form connections that build community and provide support. At the core — students, teachers, staff and families — work hard.
“We grow. We solve problems. We organize. We tackle the tough things and learn from it,” Abby says. “We juggle numerous tasks. We have fun. We embrace new things. We explore with open minds.”
As a leader, she says it is important she not only ask this of others, but also lead by example. While her broad scope of experience in education, as well as being a parent, has shaped her as an educator and leader, she says it is vital to continually grow in both areas. In education, we must be innovators to ensure that we continually serve our families and students well.
KRISTEN LANTRIP
Owner, Cowgirl Country Antiques LLC
Kristen Lantrip’s yardsale adventures with her father started before she could walk — antiques are in her DNA. Her first job was at an antique store in Phoenix, and after a few different career paths in set design for commercials and movies, at a large law firm in downtown Phoenix, and equine therapy here in Prescott, she has come full circle, back to her “good ol’ days.”
Always grateful to God for her sobriety and the oppor-
tunity to live in beautiful Prescott, she hopes Cowgirl Country Antiques will help unite the community by hosting fundraisers, special events, providing a cheerful place for all to enjoy and offer more than just antiques.
She is married to her high school sweetheart (a U.S. Army veteran), belongs to The Well Armed Woman, attends Prescott Christian Church, has three children and loves riding her horse Moose.
ANITA PAYNE
Chairman Yavapai County Workforce D evelopment Board
Anita Payne has been serving as the chairman of the Yavapai County Workforce Development Board for more than five years. Throughout her tenure, she has overseen the performance of the ARIZONA@WORK Yavapai County team to meet and exceed their state-negotiated performance. That translates to thousands of new jobs in Yavapai County, and millions of dollars in direct return on investment.
Anita is a graduate of the University of Phoenix — her expertise is in electrical engineering designs and construction. She has worked in the local area throughout her career and is known for her service to many councils, boards and committees in the county.
TERI DREW
Executive Director, Yavapai County Workforce Development Board
The Yavapai County Workforce Development Board (YCWDB) oversees business attraction, expansion and retention services through the ARIZONA@WORK Yavapai County workforce development system. Northern Arizona Council of Governments is the One Stop Talent Resource Operator for Yavapai County residents and businesses, operating under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.
Teri Drew credits the successful performance of the Yavapai County WDB to the dedication and commitment of the team of individuals who serve this County every day. The team paves “paths to prosperity” for career-minded job seekers and the business com-
munity. Teri says, “I am gratified most days with the numbers of opportunities we have to meet the needs of our community.”
Teri has a passion for assisting women in nontraditional occupations. She was named Prescott Area Leadership Woman of the Year in 2012. Teri is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute, is accredited through the Economic Development Academy of Arizona as a Arizona Economic Development Professional and is the recipient of numerous regional, state and national innovation awards. She is recognized for her leadership of more than 43 years with the Economic and Workforce Development Division of the Northern Arizona Council of Governments.
MICHELE McCORMICK
NP, Northern Arizona Pain Institutes
Michele McCormick is a board-certified adult-gerontological nurse practitioner specializing in hospice, as well as wound and ostomy care. A graduate of Northern Arizona University, she went on to train and work in the Mayo Care Network and remains active in ongoing collaboratives. In 2014, she was recognized as a national Hospice Nurse of the Year by Curo Health Services, a nationwide group of hospice providers. While helping establish pal-
liative medicine at Summit Regional Medical Center in Show Low, she began treating chronic pain in addition to addressing palliative care needs. “It was during this time that I discovered the need for improved treatment and a multimodal approach for those suffering from chronic as well as malignant pain,” Michele says. Today, she applies her expertise to help pain patients at Northern Arizona Pain Institutes, Prescott’s premier pain clinic for the Northern Arizona region.
ANGELA GAVELLI
Clinical Coordinator & Director of Marketing
Northern Arizona Pain Institutes
Angela Gavelli has more than 10 years of experience working with patients for the promotion of holistic health. She has experience as a body physician working in massage therapy, assisting at physical therapy clinics and working alongside medical professionals in outpatient and inpatient environments for pain management.
Angela joined our team as a clinical coordinator to continue her pursuit of healing practices that promote the long-term health of our patients. Angela has worked with individuals across the spectrum ranging from elite and Olympic athletes to geriatric patients. Angela enjoys yoga, exercise, reading and spending time with her family.
SHAY DAVIS
AGACNP-BC, Northern Arizona Pain Institutes
Shay Davis completed her undergraduate degree at Northern Arizona University in 1995 with a bachelor of science in psychology. She then completed her RN degree in 2010 and graduated with honors. Shay has worked as an RN for 10 years at an orthopedic and pain management surgery center in Flagstaff. Five of those years also were spent as clinical manager overseeing all operations.
She decided to pursue her advanced practice nursing degree and graduated from Grand Canyon University as a nurse practitioner in early 2020. She is board-certified, and her area of focus is adult and geriatric care. Shay is passionate about helping her patients achieve their best life and is interested in numerous modalities to help alleviate their pain.
Shay enjoys spending time with her family and exploring the beauty Arizona has to offer. Her interests include hiking, camping, skiing, riding ATVs and traveling.
KAIT LAMBERT
PA-C, Northern Arizona Pain Institutes
Catherine (Kait) Lambert completed her physician assistant degree at Saint Francis University in Loretto, Pennsylvania. In addition, she completed a bachelor’s degree in health education from Penn State University and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in sacred scripture from Saint Joseph’s College of Maine.
Kait has several years’ experience in interventional pain, physical medicine, rheumatology, psychiatry as well as internal and family medicine. She also enjoys teaching and mentoring future PA students and medical residents.
Kait feels that her compassion, varied experiences and problem-solving abilities will be a positive interaction for all patients, and she looks forward to making a difference.
LEXE NIEKAMP
Owner, Lessons by Lexe: Dance Studio
Lexe Niekamp, 24, is the owner of two local businesses: Lessons by Lexe: Dance Studio and Quest Character Parties. Lexe was crowned Miss Yavapai County 2020/2021 in February and is headed to the Miss Arizona pageant in June 2021. Her dance studio has been recognized for many best-inbusiness awards and most recently won Best of Greater
Prescott Dance Studio 2020. Lexe enjoys giving back to the community and always meets children and adults where they are. No lack of ability matters when you are having fun dancing, she says. She takes pride in mentoring all and helping everyone see the true joy in their lives while reminding people not only to dance with their feet, but also dance with their hearts.
JANA BRIDGES
Interior Designer, Blind Brothers Arizona
Jana Bridges started in the window covering business in 1990 at her parents’ company in California. Now, she is a full-time design and sales consultant at Blind Brothers Arizona in downtown Prescott. For more than 40 years the company has been dressing up windows throughout the area, specializing in Hunter Douglas and Lafayette window coverings.
Jana is proud to represent these American-made products that are of a superior quality. She can also design custom drapes and bedding with the more than 15,000 fabric selections she carries. Her clientele includes builders from Dorn Homes, Aspen Valley Homes, Mandalay Homes, Premier
Homes and MS Boaz Construction, in addition to helping private homeowners. She says, “It’s amazing how window coverings can change a whole room and I truly love helping people create a fresh new look. Our location has a showroom that is perfect to show clients all the exceptional products we carry.”
SHAWNA CARBONNIERE
PA-C, Northern Arizona Pain Institutes
Shawna Carbonniere completed her undergraduate degree at Northern Arizona University in 2000 with a bachelor’s degree in exercises science and a minor in chemistry. She went on to graduate from Midwestern University in 2006 with a bachelor of medical science degree in physician assistant studies. She spent her first eight years as a physician assistant in rheumatology, diagnosing and treating common and rare diseases such as osteoarthritis and giant-cell arteritis.
Shawna also spent one year in dermatology and three years in urgent care and occupational medicine, which has exposed her to a wide range of medical conditions and helped her get injured employees back to work. Today, Shawna is a proud member of the Northern Arizona Pain Institutes’ team helping those living with chronic pain.
Shawna is a mother of twins and enjoys hobbies such as painting, sewing and competing in triathlons.
BRIA LOPEZ
Account Executive & Graphic Designer
Northern AZ Social, LLC
Bria was born in Prescott, Arizona and graduated from Yavapai College with a degree in Graphic Design. She is a
skilled content creator, social media manager and graphic designer. She worked with several major companies in Seattle before joining the team at Northern AZ Social, LLC, a full-service advertising agency in Prescott, AZ. Additionally, she holds a photography certificate and has experience working in print production.
Bria brings in-depth knowledge when it comes to serving clients at Northern AZ Social, LLC. Bria also aids in the dayto-day operations as a Client Executive. “She is organized and thorough, which makes her a valued asset to the agency,” stated Donna Werking, owner.
TRICIA REED
Account Executive & Graphic Designer
Northern AZ Social, LLC
Tricia grew up in the suburbs just outside of Sacramento. It was there where art first stole her heart with encouraging teachers helping her get a strong foundation in design at a young age. She then went on to study Interior Design at San Diego State University where she learned the importance of space, presentation, and project management. From there, she moved to Prescott in search of a new adventure. She enrolled in the Graphic Design program at Yavapai College where she received her Associates in May 2019. She excels in clean design with a fresh perspective, specifically in branding, web design, and illustration. “Tricia brings timeliness, precision and positive
outcomes for clients. We are thrilled to have her on our team,” stated Donna Werking, owner of Northern AZ Social, LLC.
CHERIE MORGAN, RNC, NP
Medical Director, SkinPlus MedSpa
Cherie Morgan is an aesthetic and laser clinic trainer for physicians, nurses and aestheticians. She has performed aesthetic and laser treatments since 1997 and holds certification in over 40 medical, surgical and cosmetic devices. Along with training and treating physicians, nurses and other staff in over 2,300 medical facilities and medspas since 2003, Cherie has a longstanding private practice including lasers, CO2 resurfacing, radiofrequency microneedling, PRP, injectables, dermal fillers, PlasmaMD Fibroblast Pen, HyaPenPro, IPL, and is certified
in the ArqueDerma Artistic Restoration Facelift.
Cherie is also co-owner of Integrated Laser Solutions which is approved by the Arizona Bureau of Radiation Control as a Certified Laser Technician training facility. The classes will be taught at SkinPlus MedSpa. It will be the only approved training facility in Arizona north of Phoenix and it’s scheduled to open in 2021 for those seeking a career in operating lasers and various aesthetic devices.
Cherie’s passion is to find the best client path for all stages of life to “Prevent, Renew and Maintain.”
GAYLE M. MCCARTHY
NMLS #225960
CA DRE #01063368/01215943
AZ Corp BK 0906702
Licensed by the Dept. of Business Oversight (Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight Under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act.) Branch Manager
American Pacific Mortgage
Gayle has been in the mortgage industry for more than 35 years. That knowledge of the industry, along with excellent customer service, ensures her clients truly have a great experience.
Obtaining a mortgage can be a daunting experience. A consumer’s mortgage is usually the largest financial decision he or she will make. As there is a multitude of loan products available, it is of upmost importance to have a professional provide guidance through the process.
Ever-changing technology is a huge part of the mortgage industry, but customer service is alive and well at
JERRY B. THOMAS
Certified Legal Document Preparer
Jerry has been a Certified Legal Document Preparer (think “licensed paralegal”) since 2007, with her office in the Lantana Plaza in Chino Valley. She has been in the legal field, however, since 1987, and is currently a sitting member of the Arizona Board of Legal Documents Preparers under the Arizona Supreme Court.
She has experience in preparing living trusts and other estate-planning documents, domestic relations matters such as dissolution, legal separation, guardianship, custody and support, as well as contracts, deeds and bankruptcies. She
American Pacific Mortgage. Gayle believes technology is a great asset and a necessary convenience to the consumer. However, it cannot replace the human touch to make sure clients are receiving the loan that fits their needs. Gayle knows that “one loan does not fit all.” Her top priority is to make sure her clients are presented with, and understand, all options available to them. Gayle measures her success by each individual, satisfied customer.
DR. SELINA BLISS
Nursing Professor – Yavapai College
specializes in assisting people with their legal issues, with expertise, knowledge and compassion. She looks forward to serving you.
Selina Bliss is recognized for her leadership role in education and the community. She recently was awarded as a finalist for the March of Dimes 2020 Nurse of the Year, as well as being recognized by the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development for her commitment to promoting excellence in teaching, learning, and leadership at community colleges.
Selina is accustomed to making a difference in the lives of others, and as a former candidate for the Arizona State House of Representatives, she has a call to serve and give back to the community she has lived in for the past 50 years.
JOANIE ADAMS
Catering Sales Manager, Hassayampa Inn
Joanie Adam’s passion for weddings and social events came about while working at Walt Disney World in Florida. While watching a Cinderella wedding with the bride arriving in a pumpkin carriage, she knew she wanted to fulfill the visions and dreams of brides.
After Walt Disney World, Joanie’s adventures took her to the Hilton Clearwater Beach where she specialized in weddings, social galas, bar and bat mitzvahs. She’s won such awards as Manager of the Year and Venue of the Year for her passion and creativity on her events.
To say Joanie loves what she does is an understatement. Going above and beyond is
something that comes naturally.
Moving to Arizona in 2017, she has found her home at the Hassayampa Inn where she continues to help create the vision of her brides and guests for a day they will always remember.
TAMARA PLAYER
Chief Executive Officer West Yavapai Guidance Clinic
Tamara Player, LCSW, joined West Yavapai Guidance Clinic as the CEO in June 2019. She received her master’s in social work from the University of New England and a BA in Psychology from the University of Maine. Her career in mental health spans 27 years in four states.
Tamara began her career as a direct care provider in an adult residential facility, quickly transitioning to her clinical passion of providing in-home services to high-risk children. Wanting to improve the health-care system, Tamara transitioned into leadership roles, where she has dedicated over 15 years.
Tamara currently serves on the boards of MATFORCE and was recently elected to the Arizona Council of Human Services Provider Board. Tamara and her husband, Todd, live in Prescott with their two dogs and cat. They love the outdoors, hiking and traveling, especially to visit their adult children.
When Sen. Martha McSally was just 12 years old, her dad passed away suddenly from a heart attack at the age of 49. His early death had a profound impact on her — she frequently says how much she looked up to him as her hero.
Bernard McSally came from humble circumstances: both of his parents passed away at a young age so he began working at age 8, went on to serve in the Navy, and used the GI Bill to make a better life for his family. He graduated from Notre Dame, became a commissioned officer in the Navy and eventually practiced law. Martha decided to press forward and carry on his legacy. His parting words were “Make me proud,” propelling Martha to do something truly meaningful with her life. The rest is history.
When Martha entered the United States Air Force Academy in 1984, her original goal was to become a doctor. However she was motivated by the fact that females were denied the opportunity to become fighter pilots, and she became determined to prove “them”
U.S. Sen. Martha McSally Shows Courageous Leadership
by Billie Orr, Mayor Pro Tem, City of Prescott
wrong, becoming America’s first woman to fly a fighter jet in combat and the first woman to command a fighter squadron.
Over the course of her 26 years in the USAF, Martha was deployed to the Middle East six times and flew 325 combat hours in the A-10 Warthog, earning the Bronze Star and six Air Medals.
While stationed in the Middle East, Martha stood up against policies that denigrated women such as the requirement that forced U.S. servicewomen to wear the full Muslim garb in Saudi Arabia, known as the abaya policy. After almost a decade of standing for the rights of servicewomen, Martha was successful in December 2002 by the passing of legislation prohibiting the abaya provision: a victory for all women!
Martha endured and survived rape and sexual assault/abuse while in high school, the Air Force Academy and while serving on active duty. In her excellent autobiography, Dare to Fly: Simple Lessons in Never Giving Up, she discusses the darkness of her situation that led to exposing a pattern that finally began to
be addressed because of her courage to stand up to senior officers and the truth; another victory for women. Martha wrote, “Real courage is shown when a bystander decides to step up and refuses to tolerate behavior that he or she knows is wrong.”
A woman of strong faith, Martha trusts God’s direction for her life and cherishes the words in Jeremiah 29:11: “I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you.” God definitely has plans for Martha.
She served for four years in the United States House of Representatives after she retired from the USAF in 2010. Today, Martha McSally proudly represents the people of Arizona in the United States Senate. Among her greatest accomplishments are the passing of her Veterans Treatment Court Bill and being recognized as the sixth most bipartisan senator in the Senate. As a freshman senator, Martha had the most bills passed into law in 2019. She is a pragmatic, determined problem solver continuing to stand for the truth, always fighting for America and Arizona.
LOREE WALDEN
Marketing Manager
Yavapai Humane Society
Originally from Honolulu, Loree moved to Prescott 10 years ago and couldn’t be happier in a place she loves and has so much to offer with beautiful seasons, beautiful scenery, friendly people and a small-town feel.
Her background spans a variety of careers including 20 years of taxes, eight years of radio traffic and now in her favorite position as marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society, where she loves going to work every day doing something she loves and believes in — helping animals find their forever homes!
She enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, enjoying the outdoors and hanging out with her true loves: cats Pooh Bear and Tigger, and her German shepherd/ Chihuahua mix Cassidy Roo, all of which were adopted from Yavapai Humane Society.
DR. BILLIE ORR
Mayor Pro Tem, Councilwoman City of Prescott
First elected to Prescott City Council in 2015, Dr. Billie Orr is in her second term and was chosen to be mayor pro tem in 2017.
She was active in education for 25-plus years, serving as a teacher and principal in Scottsdale and ultimately becoming Arizona’s associate superintendent of public instruction for all K-12 public schools.
As a hands-on leader, Billie is a member of Frontier Rotary, serves on the Boards of Arizona Town Hall, Western Heritage Center, Republican Women of Prescott, Phippen Museum, and Read On Prescott Steering Committee. Currently Billie is thoroughly involved in the newly created Prescott Commission on Well-Being.
TERRI HARRINGTON
Owner Smart Girls Resale Fashion
In 1990 in North Dakota, Terri Harrington received her associate’s degree in fashion merchandising. Shortly after, she married and had four children. She and her husband decided she would stay home and take care of their family rather than pursue a career. Several years later, Terri returned to work at the local school district.
In early 2008 the family packed up and moved to Arizona. Terri continued working for local school districts, having the same schedule as her children. She absolutely loves being a mom!
Terri has made many amazing friends. Her Bible study
leader in 2008 asked for prayer as she opened a women’s consignment store. In 2019 Terri purchased that same consignment store they had prayed about so many years earlier. Here she is a year and a half later, still in awe of how God worked things back around.
NANCY ROTHROCK
CEO, Clinic Directory
The Heart Shop (Let’s Get Healthy 4 You)
Nancy and her husband, Dr. Douglas Rothrock, M.D., own
The Heart Shop. Her experience has helped thousands lose and maintain weight. She also provides bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, helping men and women regain vitality and prevent age-related illnesses. Nancy has spent the last year working with her husband to bring preventive cardiology to the Quad City area.
The Heart Shop offers patients one-on-one quality time with Dr. Rothrock every time.
Nancy also offers a full-service aesthetic salon, offering a personalized touch to her medical spa.
APRIL RHODES
MBA, LAMFT, Chief Executive Officer, Spectrum Healthcare Group
Through community solutions and focused care, April Rhodes and her team meet the whole health care needs of residents throughout Arizona. She has served at the forefront of health care and human services management for nearly two decades. April
has launched whole health care delivery to new heights of innovation and cohesion.
April has a master’s of advanced study in marriage and family therapy from Arizona State University and a master’s of business administration from University of Arizona. She is a licensed associate marriage and family therapist.
She is chairperson for the Arizona Council of Human Service Providers and holds seats on the Yavapai County Board of Health, Prevent Child Abuse Arizona, Health Current and Mental Health Corporation of America. In off hours, she spends time with her children, Alina, Tony and Logan, and her husband, David, recently elected Yavapai County Sheriff.
SHERI HEINEY
President and CEO Prescott Chamber of Commerce
Sheri Heiney has been the president and CEO of the Prescott Chamber of Commerce since 2017 and is a 28-year Chamber president veteran. Sheri’s passion is to serve the community and help businesses thrive. Since Sheri came to the Prescott Chamber, it has grown to over 1,000 members. She hosts a monthly radio show, Talk of the Town on KQNA.
She is vice chair of Arizona Chamber Executives and oversees the Prescott Chamber of Commerce Foundation, along with co-chairing the Prescott Business CEO Roundtable Committee.
Sheri is married to John Heiney and they have four
children, four grandchildren and recently rescued a mini-donkey (Melvin) and a mini-pony (Jasper) from Now That I’m Safe equine rescue. They also have a spoiled Shih Tzu, Bella. In her spare time, Sheri enjoys hanging with her family, hiking, gardening and watching sunsets with John.
Thank You
Lora Lee Nye Vice Mayor Prescott Valley Town Council
Billie Orr Mayor Pro Tem, Councilwoman City of Prescott
Leslie Horton MA, MCHES Director, Health Officer Yavapai County Community Health Svcs
Lori Hunt Councilwoman Town of Prescott Valley
Sheri Heiney President & CEO Prescott Chamber of Commerce
Dr. Anette Karlsson, Ph.D Chancellor, Embry-Riddle Prescott Campus
Maggie Tidaback Economic Development Project Manager Town of Chino Valley
Marnie Uhl President & CEO Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce
Dr. Lisa B. Rhine President Yavapai College
Sheila Polk Yavapai County Attorney
Flu, Pneumonia Shots Especially Important This Winter
by Dr . Hojat Askari, Medical Director, Thumb Butte Medical Center
What is the flu?
The flu is an upper respiratory disease caused by the influenza virus, which infects the nose, throat and lungs. Its severity can range from mild to severe depending on the strain of the virus being spread each year. Flu is usually spread through droplets released into the air when an infected person talks, coughs or sneezes, and less often through contact with a surface that’s been touched by someone who’s been infected by the virus. People are usually most contagious in the first three to four days after their illness begins, though in some cases this period lasts longer.
Flu can lead to serious complications including bacterial pneumonia or worsening of pre-existing conditions including asthma or heart disease. Patients older than 65 or younger than 5, those with chronic conditions, including diabetes and pregnant women, are at higher risk for severe complications or death.
The onset of flu symptoms generally happens quickly. They include:
• Feeling feverish/chills.
• Coughing, stuffy or runny nose.
• Sore throat, muscle or body aches, headaches.
• Fatigue.
• Vomiting and diarrhea, more common in children than adults.
What is the flu vaccine?
The vaccine comes in two forms, an injection that contains killed or recombinant
flu virus and a nasal spray, which that has weakened live influenza virus. Both protect against three or four of the strains of the virus expected to be the most active during the flu season.
The strains change enough from year to year that a new vaccine is needed every year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone 6 months and older be vaccinated before every flu season, with rare exceptions.
A reaction to the vaccine can cause achiness and other flulike symptoms in some people for a few days after it’s administered, but this is not due to an infection. It usually takes two weeks to achieve full strength.
Even when you’re infected by a strain of flu that doesn’t match the ones covered in the flu vaccine, your symptoms are likely to be less severe than they would have been if you hadn’t been vaccinated.
What is pneumococcal disease (pneumonia)?
This is a bacteria-caused disease that can cause pneumonia when it affects the lung; meningitis when it affects the lining of the brain; and sepsis if it enters the bloodstream. All three forms can lead to serious complications or death, particularly in older adults. Symptoms of pneumococcal disease can develop quickly. Depending on which kind of infection is involved, symptoms can include:
• Very sudden onset of high fever.
• Chills, cough, shortness of breath.
• Chest pain, stiff neck and disorientation.
• Confusion or lack of alertness, particularly in older adults.
Pneumococcal vaccines
This vaccine comes in two forms, which may be recommended by health-care providers depending on the age of the patient. The CDC recommends children up to age 2 and adults older than 65 be vaccinated every year, as well as children and adults who have certain risk factors. These are estimated to be 75% to 80% effective against invasive pneumococcal disease (including meningitis and sepsis) in young children and seniors, but less so against pneumonia in older adults.
Why is getting vaccinated so important this year?
These immunizations do not offer any protection against COVID-19, but they do protect people from other illnesses that can be mistaken for COVID and/or take up health-care resources needed to care for individuals with COVID.
Thumb Butte Medical Center offers walkin appointments for flu vaccines; call 928445-1785 for more information. Also call to make an appointment if you believe you have the flu or pneumococcal disease or call 911 if you or someone else has life-threatening symptoms.
10 Essential Skills for Women Leaders During the COVID-19 Pandemic
by Leslie Horton, MA, MCHES, Director of Yavapai County Community Health Services
I’m grateful for a vast network of strong and talented local leaders who have each helped me grow as a leader and have generously lent their support to the needs of our communities during these difficult times.
Last year at this time, I remember feeling the stress some days of running late and racing my kids to school and then hurrying to a morning meeting. I recall being momentarily tense and frustrated if the kids didn’t get ready on time, if I spilled my coffee, or if my day didn’t go as planned.
Fast forward to today, as I juggle getting ready for an early morning Zoom meeting, preparing both of my kids for their online classroom platforms, managing numerous early morning calls about COVID-19 on two cellphones, preparing for numerous daily pandemic presentations, and feeling fortunate if my dog does not spill my coffee as I attempt to facilitate that morning meeting from my living room.
I’ve realized that last year was like living the dream, and this year has catapulted me into a level of organization and leadership I never could have anticipated.
I’ve learned many valuable lessons during this pandemic that have helped me to be a better leader. The following are 10 essential skills women can use to enhance their leadership potential:
1. Intelligence — Use your wealth of knowledge in your field and be prepared to effectively communicate that information to your audience, as well as clearly answer their questions.
2. Confidence — Own your skills and knowledge and stand up for what you need, to be successful. Prepare to face challenges and adversity and acknowledge differences of opinion and challenges with poise and grace.
3. Resilience — Your ability to maintain control of your circumstances to the extent of influ-
encing the process and knowing you can improve the situation. Managing how much you let your work affect other areas of life is necessary, while maintaining stamina for longevity.
4. Teamwork — Having a supportive team pays dividends. Learning to effectively delegate and showing deep appreciation for their hard work motivates progress and balances the workload.
5. Presentation — Whether in person or in online-meeting platforms, dressing professionally and looking your best will automatically increase respectability and dignity of your messages.
6. Prioritizing — Know your priorities so you don’t allow others to make their priorities yours. Setting clear short- and long-term goals for your work helps to maintain focus on priorities, as well as managing the most vital priorities like family, friends, faith, wellness and self-care.
7. Positivity — Smiling makes a positive impact on others. Show graciousness and compassion while allowing your positivity to be a catalyst for motivating the change you hope to see.
8. Flexibility — It’s important to
roll with the twists and turns in times like these, keeping expectations open, and not allowing surprises to hinder progress toward the end game.
9. Networking — Connect with women and men you respect in leadership roles to gather perspectives and leadership skills. Turn to them in times of need for advice and guidance.
10. Balance — Finding a work-life balance strategy is a necessity during times of stress. It takes effort to make healthy choices, spend meaningful time with family or pets, maintain a household, and make self-care a priority, but striking a balance is essential during difficult and stressful times.
I have relied heavily on these skills throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. I’m grateful for a vast network of strong and talented local leaders who have each helped me grow as a leader and have generously lent their support to the needs of our communities during these difficult times.
I feel fortunate to be a public health official in Yavapai County where teamwork comes naturally and am honored to lead a team at Yavapai County Community Health Services that works exceptionally hard to improve the health and well-being of the populations we serve.
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• Better moods, memory, and mental clarity *
• Restored libido and improved relationships *
Prescott Should be Serious about Play
by Ellen Bashor, Community Nature Center Education Director, City of Prescott
It sounds simple, maybe even looks simple, but modern brain science shows it’s far from it. Playing is one of the most universal activities we can engage in. But why do we do it? And why is your Recreation Services Department so serious about play?
This is because play is vital to healthy and successful whole-child development. Some research has even shown that inadequate play time, termed “play deprivation,” has serious side effects. Knowing how important play is to our health and happiness, your City’s Community Nature Center has been investigating this phenomena further.
Turns out, we’ve got a play problem. Not just Prescott: American children and youth across the nation spend less than half the time playing outdoors than their parents did. Plus, children are spending twice as much time in front of a screen as they are engaging in healthy full-body play.
The pandemic hasn’t helped. With parents
and guardians managing so much uncertainty, playtime has been taking a backseat. We want to encourage everyone to let play take the driver’s seat for a little while each week.
Here are just a few reasons why:
• Play is good for your body.
• Play is good for your brain.
• Play is good for your heart.
• BONUS: Play is a pathway to success.
First, play is a simple and fun way to engage in physical activity outside of organized sports. For young ones, this might look like swinging and sliding at the playground, building a fort in the yard, hopscotch, catching bugs, or going on a scavenger hunt. For adults, this might be kayaking at Watson Lake, exploring the trails, charades with friends, fetch with the dog, or tossing the Frisbee.
These kinds of full-body play not only build muscle and promote healthy body weight, they improve balance, coordination and flexibility. For children, this kind of play is essential for fine and gross motor development, healthy bone density and heart and lung strength.
In play, the mind and heart are also hard at work. Play is how humans develop (and maintain) healthy cognitive and emotional processing skills. For all of us, play can also help with executive functions. This includes working memory, organization, flexible thinking, and emotional and impulse control.
For young ones, the self-regulation piece of play is very important. It supports making and maintaining friendships and learning to cooperate. This fosters emotional resilience, which is especially important right now. Playful time outside at the park, at the lake or in our yard can notably lower our stress and anxiety no matter our age.
Yet, research shows that not all play is created equal. Outdoor play, often referred to as “nature play” has additional benefits that can’t be ignored. Nature play increases vitamin D levels, improves eyesight, and builds strong immune systems. What does this mean for us playful people?
If we want to maximize the benefits of playing, the outdoors is the place to do it. Outdoors, a log, stones, and pinecone can be a spaceship adventure, a fancy restaurant or a trip to the zoo. Every flower is different, every boulder, every cloud we watch. The outdoors provides the most vocabulary-rich and sensory-rich place for all of us to learn and grow.
The bonus? Outdoor learning increases engagement in traditional academic subjects and can even increase state test scores. For next generation scientists, engineers and entrepreneurs success can start with opting outside to play.
Prescott, Arizona is definitely Nature Play City, USA. With over 550 miles of trails, surrounded by national forest, 10 parks, eight open spaces totaling approximately 3,000 acres — the opportunities for nature play are endless.
To help with your play, your local library offers adventure backpacks to check out, there’s a story walk at Granite Creek Park, your Community Nature Center has a nature play area open every day, 7 a.m. to sunset, with a comprehensive list of offerings available here: www.prescott-az.gov.
If you’re feeling stuck, we also recommend these free guides: A Parent’s Guide to Nature Play by Ken Finch or Nature Play at Home from the Natural Learning Initiative and National Wildlife Federation. It’s time to get serious and play a little.
See you outside!
THE PRESCOTT PIONEER
PRESCOTT • PRESCOTT VALLEY • CHINO VALLEY • DEWEY-HUMBOLDT
County Health Director Horton Honored
Leslie Horton, director of Yavapai County Community Health Services (YCCHS), has been recognized by the Arizona Rural Women’s Health Initiative as the “Outstanding Achievement in Rural Health” recipient.
The organization selected Horton in August, citing her “leadership and cooperative attitude in seeking ways to make lasting contributions to public health issues that have demonstrated the effects of rural health at the county, state and national level.”
Horton said the COVID-19 pandemic has posed additional health issues for YCCHS.; the pandemic has demonstrated how dedicated public health personnel can guide and impact communities in positive ways through difficult times.
“I’m proud of the work we’ve been able to accomplish during this time,” she said.
Horton credited the team she works with as the real award winners. She said she was bless-
ed to have such dedicated colleagues who devoted their personal and professional skills to their jobs.
Horton administers a public health department of 85 employees. They range from physicians, nurses and nurse practitioners to environmental health specialists, dietitians, and office and operational staff. They travel to every community in Yavapai County, where they provide more than 30 major public health operations and programs. Collectively, they serve a population of more than 240,000. YCCHS has a budget of about $6.7 million, supplemented by grants and contributions.
Horton, an 18-year employee of Yavapai County, was named YCCHS director in 2017. She previously had been a health educator with the county.
Horton, who was born and raised in Alaska, moved to Arizona so she could attend Northern Arizona University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in health science in 2003 and a
master’s degree in public health in 2006.
Horton is a board member for MATFORCE, Northland Cares,
Yavapai Justice and Mental Health Coalition and the Gardner Family Teacher Scholarship Foundation.
Longtime Sharlot Hall Museum Director Retires
Sharlot Hall Museum Executive Director Fred Veil has announced his retirement, effective the end of December.
Under Veil’s leadership since October 2013, the popular museum has modernized its campus. Most recently, the multistory brick education center was constructed; it can accommodate 135 people for performances and events.
Veil also introduced sophisticated technological advances in 11 buildings on the 4-acre campus.
During Veil’s years, member-
ship and attendance have grown significantly. The 93-year-old museum has become one of the most popular visitor destinations in central Arizona.
Veil graduated from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh before becoming a senior legal executive with several global corporations. In 2000, he retired to Prescott. Veil initiated the popular Western History Symposium in 2004.
“I’ve had a great run, but it’s time for another to take the museum to the next level,” Veil
said in a press statement.
Kim Finston, president of both the Prescott Historical Society and Sharlot Hall Historical Society, praised Veil, saying: “During his tenure, Fred has reinvigorated the museum by pulling together an outstanding staff and volunteers who embellished existing tradition with innovative and contemporary programs.”
The museum’s board of trustees will conduct a national search to find a successor.
Fred Veil, executive director, Sharlot Hall Museum, announced his retirement at the end of 2020. (Courtesy image)
Special Section:
Take Too-Cute Pet
by Blake Herzog
Prescott’s a very dog-friendly town, but it doesn’t matter where you are; everybody loves their pets to pieces and wants to share photos of their furry loved ones.
Social media has made it easier than ever to spread pics of your furry best friend far and wide, and the holidays — starting with Halloween costumes — are coming up on us quickly, giving us an excuse to actually mail our fur kids’ adorable faces to those we love.
But it’s the very rare dog, cat, horse or tortoise who can say “cheese,” and their ability or interest in cooperating is unpredictable. Many owners have a hard time capturing the essence of what makes their animal so special, that spark in their eye or their enthusiasm for life.
There are many trips and tips out there on how to work with or around pet personalities or to seize moments made for creating memories.
Make friends with the camera
If the camera is a phone that you have out all the time this may not matter as much, but in any case let your dog or cat investigate it and get more familiar with the general process of photography — the sounds, the positions, your concentration on something other than petting or playing with them, etc.
Lighting
Prescott’s weather can be almost as unpredictable as your pets, but the best results usually come from shooting on an overcast day, whether you’re outdoors or indoors. Bright sun creates dark shadows you sometimes just can’t work around without good editing software, while cloudy days produce soft shading and a great chance to make your dog, cat, guinea pig or whatever the sole focus of attention.
Avoid using a flash if you can to avoid the dreaded “red eye” and to avoid startling your pet and leading to temporary blindness. If you must use one, try to aim it away from your pet’s face or hold a piece of wax paper to dim its effect.
Seeing eye to eye
Get down at your pets’ level, no matter how small they are. You can try putting small dogs and cats on
a table or shelf so you don’t have to shoot from your stomach. Just do whatever it takes to bring you and your audience into their own special world.
Try telephoto
The results aren’t always as great from a camera phone as from a dedicated camera, but give it a try. Try sitting a few feet away from the animal when they’re in a relaxed or contemplative mood, and catch their normal expressions without having you at the end of their nose. The results could really pay off.
Distraction is key
Once you get your animal comfortable enough to deal with the situation they’ve found themselves in, it’s easy for them to get too comfortable, leading to a rather listless-looking photo.
Once you’ve gotten them to this point, that’s when you bring out the “squeak.” It could be anything like their favorite squeaky toy or a brand-new one. Even whistling can work, or maybe crinkling something will be enough for your cat. Anything that makes your pet look alert for a few seconds, without necessarily jumping up and running toward you.
Get ready for the family shoot
If you want to put your pets in a family portrait, it’ll take just a little more preparation. Since everybody else is probably going to be a little dressed up, make sure you give them a bath and a good brush beforehand. Take your dog to the park or the backyard so they can release that extra energy, but you don’t want a dead-tired dog on your hands, either. If they’ve been trained in the past, it’s a good idea to do a refresher beforehand.
If you have a reasonably chill cat you’d like to include in the festivities, let them do lots of their wandering before attempting to herd them into the frame. Consider doing those shots in an area of the home where the cat is already comfortable and spends a lot of time.
Expect the unexpected, and make that part of the fun!
Will you share your holiday pet photos with us? Email photos to photos@roxco.com and they may appear in a future issue of a ROX Media Group publication or on our social media pages!
Holiday Safety Reminders for Your Pets
by Loree Walden, Marketing Manager, Yavapai Humane Society
October and November are when food and decorations become abundant around our homes — some not so safe for our pets.
Halloween might not be “normal” this year, but there are sure to be decorations and treats. Make sure your pets stay away from all forms of chocolate, chocolate covered raisins (which are a combination of two potentially deadly ingredients together), candy corn and wrapped candy so plastic and foil wrappers don’t end up causing an intestinal obstruction.
A curious or bored pet will happily scarf down fake spider webs, fake bugs, dried corn decorations, pine cones and other holiday decor. These items can obstruct your pet’s digestive tract, stomach and intestines. Also, remember to never leave your pet alone with a lit candle.
At Thanksgiving, turkey and turkey skin, sometimes even a small amount, can cause the life-threatening condition pancreatitis.
Fatty foods are hard for animals to digest; and many foods are poisonous to pets, including onions, garlic, raisins and grapes.
A small piece of turkey (make sure it’s boneless and cooked all the way through) or a lick of mashed potatoes won’t hurt your pet, but anything more could be harmful. For a treat, give pets a made-for-pets chew bone or make a special dinner by taking their regular food and adding a few tidbits of turkey, vegetables (either sweet potato or green beans) and a few dribbles of gravy.
When baking, don’t allow your pets access to raw yeast bread dough. When ingested, the yeast continues to convert the sugars in the dough to carbon dioxide gas and alcohol. This can result in bloated, drunken pets, which could become a life threatening emergency. Desserts are tricky, and any batter, especially if it includes raw eggs, can be dangerous as can the artificial sweetener xylitol, commonly used in gum and sugar-free
baked goods.
Lastly, please make sure your pet’s microchip information is up to date.
By taking a few precautions, the holidays can be safe and fun for everyone. Happy Halloween and Happy Thanksgiving from everyone at Yavapai Humane Society!
The ROX Interview (continued)
KAREN FANN: It is really hard to predict. The sad thing is we know that some mom and pop businesses will never come back. They were already on a shoestring, and they were not able to survive.
PRESCOTT LIVING: Shifting to the future. What are key issues in the upcoming Legislature come January?
KAREN FANN: No. 1 is going to be the budget, which we’ve already talked about. That’s obviously going to be a huge issue — balancing again. And business’ liability when people claim they were infected with COVID there — we were hoping to address it in special session, but we may end up having to do it later.
I’m setting up a stakeholder’s task force to address state emergencies. We have a unique opportunity right now while it’s still fresh in our minds to ask ourselves, “Were we truly prepared for an emergency of this magnitude?” The answer was no, we weren’t.
lot more respectful. The public that visited was a lot more respectful. Members were a lot more respectful.
We have seen that change during the last four years. I think a lot of it has to do with the national attitude, if you will. I know some think part of it is because of what’s going on the presidential level. It hasn’t been nice. I think that attitude has elevated it. It’s one of those things, “Well, if it’s OK for them to do it, it must be OK for us to do it.”
Another thing, if you want to talk about another disappointment. It’s a disappointment — COVID ¬— but it was unexpected, and we couldn’t help it. We all had worked so hard getting our economy back after the recession, building it up. We went from an earlier billion-dollar deficit to last year, when we had a billion dollars in our rainyday fund. Plus, we had an extra $700 million that we were working on in the budget. We were going to be able to put more and more into education, more into infrastructure. Then came the pandemic and shutdown.
Of course, we had to do that skinny budget on March 23, because we didn’t know if we would be shut down. We had no idea how bad it was going to get, so we took out that $700 million. We made sure that education stayed funded the way it should have, as well as some of the other things we put in there. But all of the extra stuff, we had to hold off on that.
We really didn’t know what to expect financially when COVID first hit. Originally, we thought there would be over a billion dollars of lost revenue, which is why we held back spending the $700 million. Fortunately, as of right now, our shortfall has been minimal and if this trend continues we will be able to accelerate the education funding and increased infrastructure funding as planned last spring. Arizona’s financial position is one of the best in the entire nation. Because of our pro-business model, Cares Act monies and increased online sales taxes, we have been fortunate to weather these financial uncertainties.
PRESCOTT LIVING: Can state economists predict how long it’s going to take for the economy to come back?
What were the big things that we learned? One is we were not prepared to flip that switch on education and say, “Guess what? You guys all need to start learning from home, starting Monday, and be prepared to do that for two, three, four months or more …”
We can do better. We can say, “OK, what did we learn out of this, and how can we be prepared? Is that going to be better broadband for rural Arizona? Is that going to be to make sure that there is a plan B always in place?”
Second, I can tell you from an unemployment insurance standpoint, we were not prepared to handle 100,000 cases a week when we’re used to doing 3,000 cases. Now, will we ever be prepared to do 100,000? No. But let this be a lesson that maybe our computer system really does need to be upgraded.
Third, I think we need to have a serious conversation about the state constitution. We also found out there seemed to be a blurred line about exactly who has what authority to do what in an emergency.
We have a governor who declared an emergency. He has a lot of power to order us to stay at home. Questions started coming up — constitutionally he’s OK here, but how long is he OK keeping us closed down?
continued on page 160... ...continued from page 27
Pour Your Personality Into Your Backsplash
by Blake Herzog
One thing kitchens don’t usually have a lot of is exposed walls — which can make them a great place to experiment.
Between all the appliances and cabinets found in that room, there’s only a little bit of vertical space, set off from the rest of your house, which makes it the perfect place to add a pop of color or texture that’ll make it glow without disrupting the flow of the rest of your abode.
Backsplashes, whether they’re confined to the space immediately over the stove or unfurled around the perimeter of your kitchen, can be composed of the classic white subway tile in horizontal or vertical patterns and look perfectly beautiful. You can also try any kind of colored tile, brick, stacked stone, river rock, floral graphics, pressed tin, wallpaper to simulate any of these effects or just about any other substance you can think of. Your preferences and priorities are really the only limits to what you can do. Are you seeking an earthy look or abstract art? Do you value ease of cleaning over detail? Do you want cozy or captivating?
Here are just a few ideas:
A little goes a long way
Shown here just after installation, this backsplash leans on simple, square white tiles but sprinkles a few tiny earth-toned pieces at the corners, using a consistent pattern to highlight the purity of the look without overwhelming it. The colors can be coordinated to the countertops or bring in just a touch of your favorite color to make the space your own.
Mosaic mode
Mosaic squares can introduce all kinds of elements into your backsplash. They come in all kinds of shapes and sizes and compose patterns that are simple or complex. This one incorporates shades of green to introduce a clean, organic vibe to the kitchen to go with the fresh food you’re preparing for your family. Mosaic tiles are made of stained glass, stone, metal or acrylic, and it’s easy to mix colors and materials to make sure yours is one of a kind!
Special effects
Don’t forget about the power of lighting to make your rooms look completely different at different times of the day. This mosaic pattern already pops with the dark tiles accents, but the under-cabinet lighting is adding a dramatic golden sheen. Well-placed lights beneath cabinets or elsewhere in the room can pick up the shimmer in glass or metal tiles and add a halo effect to your kitchen.
Between all the appliances and cabinets found in that room, there’s only a little bit of vertical space, set off from the rest of your house, which makes it the perfect place to add a pop of color or texture that’ll make it glow without disrupting the flow of the rest of your abode.
Splashy backsplash
Most of these examples keep a consistent theme throughout the kitchen, but you can also go with the original meaning of the word “backsplash” and define the space above your range, however subtly or visibly. This one uses a boundary to define that special part of the kitchen where most of the magic happens, plus a special raised-pattern tile detail that can set the mood for the rest of the room.
Colorific
You don’t have to keep the splashy color confined to the backsplash either. This kitchen pulls off two jewel tones to create a vibrant heart for your home. But be sure about what you’re doing before you commit. A 3D design simulator can be a great way to take colors and patterns out for a test drive.
Spread the love
Of course there’s no rule against your kitchen detail splashing into the rest of the house, especially if it’s open-concept (as most are these days). This kitchen shares its stone mosaic with the accent wall around the fireplace; the neutral tones meshing perfectly with the sandy floors. Now this is how you coordinate your home!
Special Section: Home & Garden
Know the Score with It Comes to the Value of Your Remodeling Project
by Sandy Griffis, Executive Director, Yavapai County Contractors Association
Aword to the wise about home improvements. Home improvements that seem like a great idea up front sometimes do not justify their worth in terms of your home’s overall value. Home value is vital when it comes time to put the home up for sale, and even homes not up for sale need to maintain or increase their value.
That brings up the “cost vs. value” concept. What is this you ask? Cost vs. value is a general concept seeking to find the right balance between the cost of an item and its overall benefit. It is connected to most everything in life, and this month we are going to talk about home improvement cost vs. value. Garage conversions are a prime example of projects that typically have a very low costto-value rating. Costs are high because many subprojects are involved including electrical, flooring, insulation, lighting and more. Yet from a resale standpoint, garage conversions have a very low resale value and may even have a negative value if the buyer wants to turn the space back into a garage. So, a garage conversion would be deemed to have low overall value.
There is an annual Cost vs. Value Report published at www.costvsvalue.com. This is an annual set of home remodeling estimates that has become an industry classic. Since 2002, Remodeling Magazine and its counterpart Remodeling Online, published by Hanley Wood, has created estimates of home remodeling projects against the background of their value. Here are two representations of the cost vs. value taken from www.costvsvalue. com. To see every project type, please go to the website.
BATH REMODEL — MIDRANGE
• Update existing 5x7-foot bathroom
• Replace all fixtures to include 30x60inch porcelain-on-steel tub with 4x4inch ceramic tile surround
• New single-lever temperature and pressure-balanced shower control
• Standard white toilet
• Solid-surface vanity counter with integral sink
• Recessed medicine cabinet with light
• Ceramic tile floor
• Vinyl wallpaper
The average job cost in the Phoenix area for this improvement is $20,142.
The resale value for this improvement is $13,765, with a cost recoup factor of 68.3%.
The national average for this same improvement is $21,377.
The resale value nationally for this improvement is $13,688, with a cost recoup factor of 64%.
BATH REMODEL — UPSCALE
• Expand existing 35sf bathroom to 10 sf within existing house footprint
• Relocate all fixtures
• Include 42x42-inch neo-angle shower with ceramic tile walls with accent strip, recessed shower caddy, bodyspray fixtures and frameless glass enclosure
• Include free-standing soaker tub with high-end faucets
• Stone countertop with two sinks
• Two mirrored medicine cabinets with lighting
• Compartmentalized commode area with one-piece toilet
• Humidistat-controlled exhaust fan.
• Use all color fixtures
• Use larger matching ceramic tiles on the floor laid on diagonal with ceramic tile base molding
• Add general and spot lighting including waterproof shower fixture
• Cabinetry has custom drawer base, wall cabinets
• Extend HVAC, electric in floor-heating
The average job cost in the Phoenix area for this improvement is $63,520.
The resale value for this improvement is $40,731, with a cost recoup factor of 64.1%.
The national average for this same improvement is $67,106.
The resale value nationally for this improvement is $37,995, with a cost recoup factor of 56.6%.
Two takeaways for any homeowner intent on remodeling: 1.All remodeling projects depreciate in value and almost no projects return 100% on the investment. 2. Remodeling projects decline in value over time for a number of reasons — trends change, technology improves, items break and items wear down. Projects do not return their cost, and in most cases return far lower than their actual cost.
The biggest bang-for-the-buck improvement return on investment over the past 15 years is installing manufactured stone veneer. Nationally, this improvement came in with a 93% return. If you are building a new home, manufactured stone will certainly add value. And, if wanting to improve the curb appeal, installing it on a manufactured home as an exterior “dressing” will add value. Manufactured stone has continually been followed by a garage door replacement at 92%.
As a general rule, the simpler the project and the lower cost of the project, the larger the cost-value ratio. Simpler projects tend to require less time and skill by a professional remodeler. It stands to reason that it’s far easier to replace a steel entry door than it is to design, source and build a two-story addition. Replacement jobs — such as door, window and siding projects — will generate a higher return than remodeling projects. That’s been the case since at least 2003. Replacement projects averaged a return of 75% plus.
Remember to tune in to YCCA’s Hammer Time aired twice each weekend Saturday and Sunday morning at 7 a.m. on KQNA 1130 am/99.9 FM and 95.5 FM or the web at kqna. com. Listen to Sandy and Mike talk about the construction industry and meet your local community partners. A wildly fun local show.
CHRISTMAS LIGHT INSTALLATION
Make a statement this Christmas Season! Decorating your home for Christmas should be planned early in the fall and ZebraScapes is here to help. Our design team will meet with you to go over your needs and desires to create a festive solution for this Holiday Season.
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928.830.4061
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Our design team can hang lights on structures, trees, bushes, and whatever it takes to celebrate your home or commercial buildings. We can use your existing lights or we can also provide new energy efficient LED lights along with programming timer devices. ZebraScapes will maintain the system throughout the entire Holiday Season. Pricing includes take down and storage for the following year.
Christmas is a special time, why not spend it safely with your family and friends. Let us save you the time and energy. CALL US for a free estimate.
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• Branded agent websites
• Branded mobile app
• In-house Marketing team
• Full-time IT support
• Training and education
• Lyon Connect
• Multiple online agent profiles
Best Autumn-Colored Trees to Grow in Prescott
by Lisa Watters-Lain, Arizona’s garden gal
Not all trees are created equal when it comes to autumn colors, and this is their season. Autumn is also the ideal planting window for trees and tall shrubs.
You will find increased garden success when plants are showing their colors. The days are crisp, and the soil warm so plants start with a burst of new root growth. Most properties don’t have many trees. You can count on one hand the number of trees in the average landscape. But, trees stand out in any yard like anchors that bring together the foundation of a good plan. Also, don’t forget that trees increase the value of your landscape more than spas and grills.
Don’t waste money by cutting corners. Trees are where the landscape value is and no place to pinch pennies. Buy the best-looking tree you can find, bigger-is-better. Nice looking trees at the garden center turn into big, bold specimens as they mature. An ugly tree only gets bigger and more obnoxious as it grows.
Cut landscape dollars on shrubs, flowers and hedges so your budget can afford a few specimen-sized trees to enhance your outdoors. Below are the show-offs of fabulous fall foliage.
Prescott Blaze Maple — a very fast-growing shade tree blazed in reds and oranges through autumn. It produces a tall narrow tree with ascending branches more resistant to wind and storm damage. Widely used as a street tree, driveway lining, or anyplace tight spaces demand a tree that will not spread past 20 feet with the brightest reds in fall.
Flame Maple — is famous for bright red foliage that ignites a landscape. It’s well adapted to mountain clay soils, sun, wind and cold winters. When established, it’s easy on the irrigation and the perfect fire-wise tree. Though sometimes mistaken for a Japanese maple, this mountain variety is the far hardier of the two trees. Whether grown as a short multitrunk tree or a 10-foot shrub, it is on my list of preferred “waterwise” plants.
Ornamental Pistachio — are for gardens exposed to the wind and subjected to micro bursts or other weather anomalies. This autumn show-off thrives not only in harsh environments but neglect. The attractive umbrella shape turns a brilliant crimson;
no other tree produces such a vibrant, broad range of fall reds and oranges. It can serve dozens of uses as: shade tree, street tree, accent, or front yard specimen. The ideal choice for flanking driveways in pairs. Grow this colorful low-water tree against a solid evergreen pine background to provide intense contrast to any landscape.
Aristocrat Pear — is the last tree to turn autumn red, yet celebrates the other three seasons of the year. This fall beauty also produces gigantic masses of white flowers in spring before the leaves appear, followed by glowing green leaves through summer. In winter, the clean winter outline is upright to pyramidal when young and becomes broadly oval at maturity and resists wind damage. The autumn colors are disputably brighter than maple and rival the purple of Raywood ash.
Prescott Red Oak — is so deep-rooted this mountain native lives for hundreds of years with little to no pest issues. Its real claim to local fame is the classic red oak leaves that glow through autumn. An outstanding pyramidal form for the perfect shade canopy in lawns, parks or a backyard patio.
Quaking
Aspen — for the past four years, the undisputed best-seller here at Watters Garden Center is Quaking aspen, populus tremuloides, or trembling leaf poplar. Growing in the wild at the 6,000-feet plus elevations, it does well as a cultivated specimen. Aspens have the classic pure white bark like birch but, unlike a birch, handle our clay soils even better. True to their name, the delicate leaves shiver and quake at the slightest breeze. For a natural look with aspens, plant them in clusters, or buy a clump of aspens in the same container. They are social trees and like to hang out together in groupings — best planted before the Thanksgiving holiday.
Latest Garden News
— It’s been
seven months in the making, and the first edition is now online. I launched a digital garden center this month that just makes researching local plants easier. Plant organization is precisely how a designer investigates them in the landscape. Trees are broken up into evergreens, shade and fruit trees to narrow down
your search. This is an active list of plants that often changes as crops are harvested and brought to Watters Garden Center.
Top10Plants.com is for locals of central Arizona only. Amazon will not be delivering a 300-pound tree to your doorstep. We have local delivery and planting teams hired to install plants for you, or pick plants up yourself here at Watters Garden Center. Take a look and let me know how to make this new digital garden center even better.
Lisa Watters-Lain can be found throughout the week at Watters Garden Center, 1815 W. Iron Springs Road in Prescott, or contacted through WattersGardenCenter.com or FB.com/WattersGardenCenter.
13844 N Thunderbird Rd, Prescott 86305 $749,000
Beautiful 3421 sq ft custom home in Inscription Canyon Ranch on over 2 acres! This is an artist’s own home, with plenty of architectural design details and features that make it a stand-out. Three bedrooms, three baths, with attached 930 sq ft artist studio that could be a theater, office or bonus room, 3-car garage, fireplace in living room, and the entire second floor is the well-appointed master suite with a private balcony. The flagstone courtyard and patio are perfect for entertaining and enjoying the peaceful setting. No HOA! Call Judy today or a private showing.
5275 Old Skull Valley Rd, Skull Valley 86338 $649,000
The best last place in Skull Valley. Only 24 miles from town, but a whole world away. This 2170 sq ft western style 3 BR, den and 3 BA home offers panoramic views, lush irrigated lawn and pasture, mature shade trees and a peaceful setting. Horse heaven with a 4-stall barn, arena, tack room, fenced and crossed fenced, extra detached garage and a workshop. The home boasts wood floors, tile, new cabinetry, granite, rock fireplace and covered flagstone patios. Totally remodeled and beautiful. Owner/agent.
9845 Cougar Canyon Rd., Prescott 86305 - $115,000
Two acres of incredible rock outcroppings, trees, views and plenty of places to build your dream home. Located in Wikutepa Estates, this vacant lot is in a gated, private enclave of luxury homes off of Williamson Valley. Priced to sell!
167 Sycamore Vista Drive, Chino Valley 86323 $619,000
Beautiful 2394 sq ft home on one acre, 3 BR, plus den, 2 BA, large master suite/ bath, tile floors & newer carpet in BRs, den & LR. Interior has fresh paint, great room with fireplace, large kitchen island. Gorgeous fenced backyard boasts fruit trees, lush vegetation, lighting and 8 raised garden beds & custombuilt grape arbor. Attached 3-car garage plus newly built 2100 sq ft shop/ garage, heated/cooled w/plumbing. paver pad 50’x20’ w/full hookups & 50 amp service. Won’t last! Contact Debbie Huff, Realtor with Realty ONE Group Mountain Desert at 928-566-8667 or debbiesellshomesandland@gmail.com.
Do you want to sell you property? Buyer demand is high and interest rates are at historic lows. Judy can sell your home remotely and using CDC guidelines. To find out your house value and receive a marketing plan, contact Judy today. Your friend in real estate.
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How to Avoid the Costliest Fire Claims
The kitchen is one of the most common sources of home fires, and cooking fires are the most expensive to repair.
The average cooking fires ends up costing more than $30,000, which is four times higher than the next most expensive type of homeowner’s claim, according to a new study by Nationwide Insurance. Most kitchen fires occur in the month of March, followed by April, December, October and May.
During the five-year period from 2013 to 2017, some 173,200 home fires started in U.S. kitchens, according to the National Fire Protection Association’s “2019 Home Structure Fires” report. Each year, these fires:
• Caused 550 deaths
• Caused 5,020 injuries
• Resulted in $479 million of direct property damage
• Accounted for 40% of home fire injuries and 15% of the direct property damage.
With those numbers in mind, you should take steps and precautions to make sure you don’t suffer a cooking fire in your own home.
What you can do
There are a number of steps you can take to reduce the chances of starting a kitchen fire:
• Always keep what you are cooking in sight, and never leave the stove unattended.
• Stay alert when cooking, particularly with oil. Know the warning signs of when a fire might start. Cooking oil
smokes to give us a warning as it approaches its auto-ignition point of roughly 750 degrees. If you see smoke coming from your oil, shut off the heat and remove the pan from the stove immediately.
• Keep things that can catch fire away from heat.
• Have a fire escape plan. Know two ways out.
• Keep children and pets away from the cooking area.
• Always install and use cooking appliances as per directions.
• Have working smoke alarms.
What to do if you have a cooking fire
Despite your best efforts, a fire can start in your kitchen. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
• Never grab a burning pan.
• Never use water on a grease fire. A little cup of water will send the flaming oil spraying through the kitchen, and possibly even over you.
• In case of a grease fire, grab an oven mitt and a tight-fitting cover, slide the cover right over the side and turn the stove off. Leave it for 10 to 20 minutes. If there is no cover close by, use a cookie sheet.
• In case of an oven fire, immediately close the oven door and turn the appliance off. If the fire doesn’t go out
right away, call the fire department. Have the oven inspected and repaired before you use it again.
A word about fire extinguishers
Keep a fire extinguisher in your kitchen. Get one that’s labeled as safe to use on any kind of fire, and keep it within easy reach. If a fire starts:
• Point the extinguisher toward the base of the fire.
• Holding it by the handle, press down on the lever on the fire extinguisher; just let go when you want to stop.
• Spray horizontally back and forth across the fire until it’s extinguished, remembering to aim low.
The secret weapon
Baking soda is an important ingredient in any kitchen, and not just for baking cookies. If a fire breaks out on an electric stovetop or if you don’t have anything available to smother a grease fire, grab a box of baking soda and pour it generously on the flames.
Baking soda will help to extinguish a small fire, but you may need several boxes of it.
THE PRESCOTT PIONEER
PRESCOTT • PRESCOTT VALLEY • CHINO VALLEY • DEWEY-HUMBOLDT
Yavapai County Teacher of Year Program Ends; Focus Shifts to Classroom
For 25 years, outstanding teachers from throughout Yavapai County had been honored by the Yavapai County Education Foundation during annual spring Teacher of the Year ceremonies.
But no longer, said foundation President Tim Wiederaenders and his fellow officers Mike Ellegood, vice-president, and Tim Carter, secretary-treasurer, in a formal statement issued in August.
During the past quarter-century, hundreds of teachers from grades preschool and kindergarten through high school were named and recognized annually during a well-attended banquet at the Prescott Resort.
Often as many as 70 teachers were nominated from public and charter schools, and the award winners in various categories received substantial cash awards and trophies.
That was during a time when the only significant education foundation in the county was the Yavapai County Education
Foundation. In recent years, individual school districts have organized their own foundations.
Wiederaenders and fellow officers said in a news release:
“The board regrets the action, but the decline in revenues needed to support this costly program have escalated. It is human nature that people would prefer to support their local education foundation rather than a countywide foundation, which supports 26 distinct school districts.”
Emphasis Shifting to School Grants Projects
Wiederaenders said the Yavapai County Education Foundation will continue but will shift its major emphasis to classroom grants. YCEF’s Classroom and School grant program was established in 1994, sponsoring both the TOY program and previously titled, Mini-Grant Program. Future focus and resources will go towards expanding Classroom and School Grant programs. The focus will be
to raise funds to provide financial assistance to classroom teachers from schools throughout Yavapai County. The program will reward teachers who go above and beyond in offering innovative learning opportunities for children. Teachers can apply for funds to assist them in funding classroom projects.
Teachers can apply as individuals or in partnership with their schools and/ or school districts. Grants can amount to as much as $500 for classroom programs, and up to $1,000 for matching grants.
The Yavapai County Education Foundation has announced that grant applications will be accepted up to Nov. 2, 2020. Recipients will be announced in late November, with funds to be released in December.
Corporate sponsors contributing to the foundation include premier sponsor, Lamb Chevrolet, Freeport McMoRan Copper
and Gold, Arizona Community Foundation of Yavapai County, Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Prescott, Prescott Sunrise Lions Club, Rotary Club of Prescott-Sunup and the generosity of individual donors.
Information on the Grant programs and available sponsorships can be obtained by calling Jenn Nelson at 928-442-5138 or by emailing her at jenn.nelson. yavapai.us.
THE PRESCOTT PIONEER
PRESCOTT • PRESCOTT VALLEY • CHINO VALLEY • DEWEY-HUMBOLDT
ERAU Economic Impact Approaching $400 Million
The Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott campus was estimated to have an economic impact of $392 million across Arizona this past year. That’s an increase of 41% in the past four years, according to a report released by the independent Washington Economics Group in August.
What’s more, the university provides approximately 3,000 permanent jobs for residents throughout Arizona. That’s 38% more jobs than four years ago.
It is certainly a far cry from 42 years ago, when ERAU’s Prescott location started from a small rag-tag campus with 264 students and a handful of faculty and staff, to what now is a residential campus with approximately 3,000 students and hundreds of faculty and staff.
Today, ERAU is rated the world’s No. 1 aerospace and aeronautical university by U.S. News and World Report.
In Prescott and Yavapai County specifically, ERAU is rated a major and essential economic driver for the greater community. In the Greater Prescott community, the university helps support directly and indirectly about 2,853
jobs that result in $318 million of total economic impact. The Washington Economics Group estimates that ERAU’s activities added $173 million to the county’s GDP — gross domestic product (total value of goods and services produced).
The study projects that future ERAU cumulative capital spending plans during the next five years in Arizona will have a total economic impact of $161 million and create 181 jobs.
It’s estimated that ERAU alumni — Eagles — generated about $86 million in total economic activity in Arizona this year, according to the data.
The firm conducted a comprehensive study of the entire ERAU organization — the Arizona campus, the Daytona Beach, Florida, campus and the approximately 130 worldwide campus locations for the university. Overall, ERAU educates more than 33,500 students in degree programs that range from baccalaureate and master’s to doctoral degrees.
The Washington Economics Group is a consulting firm that specializes in analyzing emerging and global economies. Its report
said the university is a “leading creator of high-wage employment in both state economies.”
ERAU President Barry Butler, whose main office is in Florida, was pleased with the reported economic impacts of the respective campuses.
Butler noted the Arizona and the Florida residential campuses, coupled with the influence of worldwide campuses and online courses, resulted in a combined overall impact of that now surpasses $2.3 billion.
Chancellor Anette Karlsson at the ERAU-Prescott campus said, “We’re so proud to call Arizona, especially Prescott, home. Not only is it important to us to provide quality employment for hundreds of Yavapai County residents, it’s also important for us to educate and graduate high-caliber students. They will go on to successful and rewarding high-paying careers. “
She said ERAU valued building community and industry relationships and looked forward to initiating further ones.
“What’s good for Embry-Riddle is good for Prescott and good for our economy.”
Prescott Mayor Greg Mengarel-
Embry Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott Chancellor Anette Karlsson hopes the economic impact of the university continues to grow in the greater Quad City communities.
li praised ERAU and its direct and indirect financial impact.
“For more than 40 years, ERAU has made a substantial impact on Prescott,” he said. “Now, more than ever, we are grateful for not only the economic impact but also the university’s continued partnership with the City.”
Many Fall Events Canceled Because Of COVID 19
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott Chancellor Anette Karlsson expressed regret that several traditional fall activities had been being canceled out of concerns for health and safety of the university community and thousands of parents, fans and supporters.
“We simply cannot risk holding large gatherings and events amid this ongoing pandemic,”
she emphasized.
Among these were the OctoberWest Homecoming and the Wings Out West Airshow. Originally scheduled the first weekend in October, these events usually attract thousands of locals and visitors to the community.
Also canceled for the second time was the spring 2020 commencement, originally postponed because of the COVID-19 shutdown
mandated this past May. The ceremony had been rescheduled for Oct. 2. It now has been rescheduled for some time in spring 2021.
Eagle varsity coaches and athletes and sports fans of soccer, volleyball and cross country are disappointed that the California Pacific Conference (Cal-Pac) announced that all fall sports competitions will be moved to spring 2021. Though coaches and ath-
letes may schedule some training, intercollegiate competition dates will be realigned in cooperation with the Cal-Pac and the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics.
Those wanting current updates on ERAU campus activities can find them a www.prescott. erau.edu
The ROX Interview (continued)
...continued from page 134
Then we had the mayors in Flagstaff, Phoenix and Tucson who are very liberal. They didn’t think the governor went far enough. So they were starting to implement their own orders. These concerns need to be sorted out.
PRESCOTT LIVING: Should we have a lieutenant governor? Your thoughts?
KAREN FANN: We have had the bill introduced a few times but it needs to go before the voters for approval. For many years, a lot of people said, “No, we don’t need it. It’s just another paid position.” I think that we are getting to the point that Arizona is getting big enough. It’s a lot for the governor to handle all on his own now. I think we are at the point that we need a lieutenant governor.
PRESCOTT LIVING: What secrets about you, things you’ve done, are you willing to share?
KAREN FANN: I grew up here in Prescott, but when the recession hit so bad here, dad had to move the contracting business over to California. That’s why I went to high school there. I was on student council, I was on the gymnastics team; I played the flute. So jack of all trades, master of none.
PRESCOTT LIVING: Now you own a contracting company.
KAREN FANN: Those were the days when girls really weren’t considered to be the ones to take over the family business. My brother Mike was the only boy in the family. It was just automatically assumed he would take it over. He’s worked very hard, and I’m very proud of him. It worked out fine because I started my own business, which means I can shine on my own.
I’m the licensed contractor, and I have a wonderful husband who, when I’m down at the Capitol, he handles the dayto-day stuff.
PRESCOTT LIVING: You’ve a talented family.
KAREN FANN: Everybody says, “You’re an overachiever,” but I tell them, “No, actually you should see my siblings.”
My sister Gail is a year older than I am. She has her doctorate degree in business education and teaches at the Naval Postgraduate School over in Monterey. She is always being asked to present papers to the 5-star generals at the Pentagon.
Then there’s my brother Mike, who everybody in Prescott knows and is Mr. Over-
achiever and Mr. Wonderful. He built the skate park and is always involved in philanthropic causes on top of being successful in business.
My younger sister Sarah started out in nursing, then obtained her master’s degree, which vaulted her into a VP at Hospice of the Valley. She is now working in the telemedicine field on a national level.
PRESCOTT LIVING: What do you and husband Jim do for fun?
KAREN FANN: Jim plays golf every day — his favorite thing. I play golf whenever I can, which is not very often, but I do love it. I have not had time lately, but Jim and I used to go fishing a lot. We both love to fish. Unfortunately, since being in the Legislature, the last six years in particular, I haven’t been able to fish much.
PRESCOTT LIVING: What about travel? You traveled internationally.
KAREN FANN: Yeah. Ironically, Jim was not a big traveler before last year. We do go to Hawaii almost every year. Our family always goes somewhere for Christmas vacation. We’ve done that for 30 years.
And now, because of my Senate president’s position, I’m on the board of a number of national organizations and invited to attend events that allow Jim and me a little more travel time together. For example, we did go to Italy. He’d never been overseas. He absolutely loved it. He actually got on
a golf course and played golf over there. I went to Berlin by myself. I did not know a soul on that trip, but it was great. People were wonderful. They made me feel very welcome. I’ve become very good friends with them as part of the Senate Presidents’ Forum. It was an honor to be at the memorable spot where President Reagan said, “Tear down this wall.”
In August 2019, Jim and I went to Taiwan with Speaker Rusty Bowers and his son. I didn’t think that Jim was going to like Taiwan at all because he couldn’t go golfing every day. Well, they do play golf — but it was the Taiwan government that invited us. We were up at 6 o’clock every morning and did not get back to our hotel room till 10 o’clock at night. That was really work. I think we had one afternoon off. It was nonstop.
PRESCOTT LIVING: Your hope for the future of Arizona and your future?
KAREN FANN: My fervent hope is that I can represent honestly the people who elected me as well as the greater population of Arizona. We’ve got some major issues to be faced at the Capitol. We can’t let partisan politics get in the way of what is best for Arizona. I have two rules I follow: First, I will respect everyone. Second, I will never blindside someone. I will be honest, ethical and forthright. I will listen and not ignore.
•
Day Trips from Prescott
When you live in Arizona, you don’t need to worry about taking a long and costly vacation. Our state offers a wide variety of unique towns, national parks and stunning natural formations to keep you day-tripping for a few years. You can find the perfect day’s fun for your family inside the many museums, shops and restaurants or outside on trails, lakes and Jeep tours. Whether you crave the snow of Northern Arizona or the warmth of the desert, there is a day trip for you.
Jerome (35 miles)
This historic copper mining town caters to the ghost hunter, art lover, wine or beer connoisseur and history lover. After each member of your family finds something entertaining to do in the more than two dozen galleries and eclectic shops, you can meet up on the hill at the Haunted Hamburger for your choice of nine burgers or many options on the “Not The Burgers” menu.
Montezuma’s Castle, Camp Verde (45 miles)
Spend the day with the family learning about the cliff-dwelling Sinagua culture at this national monument. Tours offer insights into the local reptiles and medicinal plants. After your day outside, head into the cool air of the Cliff Castle Casino Hotel to pick from several restaurant choices, including the Mountain Springs Buffet.
Wickenburg (59 miles)
Thick with the atmosphere of the Old West, Wickenburg is set alongside the Hassayampa River. Its quaint downtown offers shopping and a variety of restaurants including Anita’s Cocina, where you can get authentic Mexican food. You can bring your inner cowboy and let him play on the many guest ranches or soak in some Western culture at the Desert Caballeros Western Museum.
Verde Valley Wine Country (59 miles)
Take the winding Page Springs Road between Cornville and Sedona to experience several vineyard tasting rooms or horseback riding under the cool trees. For something completely different, visit the two fish hatcheries for a family educational experience. Red Rock State Park is just a few miles down the road with a museum and several easyto-walk trails.
Sedona (67 miles)
Outdoor lovers flock to the Red Rocks of Sedona for mountain biking and hiking. Enjoy the cool waters of Slide Rock State Park or the majestic natural wonders in Red Rock State Park. Many New Age shops will give you the information for visiting Sedona’s famous vortexes, or you can take the official Vortex Tour from the several Jeep tour groups. If unique shopping venues are your thing, visit Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village, as well as the Main Street shopping district.
Williams (69 miles)
Yes, you can find your kicks right here on Route 66! Williams offers six blocks of historic advertisements, shops, motor lodges and eateries. The “Gateway to the Grand Canyon” gives you a glimpse into what life on the road was like decades ago. Mountain biking, hiking and fishing are waiting for the outdoor enthusiast. Animal lovers will embrace the Bearizona Wildlife Park. Love trains? The Grand Canyon Railway leaves Williams daily.
Crown King (57 miles)
Tiny Crown King in the southern Bradshaw Mountains is “Far From Ordinary” and knows it. Part ghost town and part piney oasis from the surrounding desert, this burg has made itself known for events like “the World’s Shortest Memorial Day Parade” and the annual CK Apple Festival.
Pine (83 miles)
Cruise into Pine and feel your temperature drop under the tall trees. Saunter through the
SEDONA
MONTEZUMA’S CASTLE
JEROME
PHOTO: BLUSHING CACTUS
Traveling • Dining • Entertainment
quaint downtown area to visit an art gallery or two and small specialty shops. Don’t forget the Honey Stand or the Trident Winery. Ready for dinner? Swing into THAT Brewery & Pub and kick back on the patio to enjoy some delicious food and one of its in-house, hand-crafted micro-brewed beer selections.
Payson (98 miles)
“The Heart of Arizona” brings it all together with rodeos, swimming, hiking, fishing and camping. The historic downtown offers dining and shopping. Swing by Western Village Art & Antique Corral for some unique finds. Tonto Natural Bridge offers hiking trails, the natural bridge and the park’s cavern. Fossil hunting and Indian ruins will keep the history buff enthralled. The area is also a popular destination for “rock hounds” looking for geodes and “Arizona diamonds” (gemstonequality quartz crystals). After a full day of Payson touring, the Buffalo Bar and Grill will set your toes to tapping with the band and the petite dance floor will call your name.
Grand Canyon (123 miles)
Hiking trails, shopping, gorgeous hotels and cabins, shopping, restaurants and more are awaiting the visitor to the Grand Canyon Village on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. See historical buildings, hear stories of former residents, and learn about the designs of trailblazing architect Mary Colter. Trailheads for Bright Angel and South Kaibab trails start near the village. Tour more of the South Rim on the shuttlebuses to see even more views before heading back to one of the numerous restaurants for a tasty meal with views that can’t be beat.
Kingman/Grand Canyon West (148 miles)
Along the historic Route 66 you can find a city with a storied history. Check out the Powerhouse Visitor Center, the Mohave
Museum of History or Locomotive Park before stopping at one of the many restaurant options offered in this wonderfully historic city.
Goldfield Ghost Town, Apache Junction (137 miles)
This is a very active ghost town! Boasting a gunfight show, mine tours, railroad, reptile exhibit, museum, Mystery Shack, stables, shops and more, the entire family will be immersed in the Old West, Arizona flavor. You can even try your luck at gold panning at the Prospector’s Palace. A full-service steak house and saloon will help you refuel, and the town’s bakery will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Sunset Crater (115 miles)
Black ash and volcanic rock are just two amazing things to see when visiting this otherworldly site. Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is home to a dormant volcano whose last eruption was just a thousand years ago. Just a short drive from lively Flagstaff, this destination offers hiking trails, a visitor center and amazing views.
Meteor Crater (137 miles)
Fifty thousand years ago a meteor hit earth with more energy than 20 million tons of TNT. That meteor happened to land in Northern Arizona. The Meteor Crater Visitor Center is located at the rim with an amazing view of the massive crater. Learn about Meteor Crater, experience the Discovery Center, see artifacts and exhibits on space, catch the Collision! 4D Experience Room, or snag a snack at the Blasted Bistro. Meteor Crater is a fun experience for all ages.
Please contact parks and attractions directly before your visit to verify current hours of operation and availability of attractions and reservations.
SUNSET CRATER
GRAND CANYON
WILLIAMS
November 7, 2020
A Revised Format, New Venue, Online Delivery
By Fred Veil, Executive Director, Sharlot Hall Museum and former Sheriff of the Prescott Corral of Westerners International
This year’s Western History Symposium will use a slightly different format due to the Covid pandemic. Specifically, attendance to the live, free lectures at the Event Center in the new Sharlot Hall Museum Education Center will be limited seating, and all presentations will be available via streaming video. Event date will be Saturday, Nov. 7, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and, to comply with social distancing requirements, limited to 50 persons in attendance with face masks required. Video streaming will be available to non-attendees. Now in its 18th year, the Symposium features interesting and informative presentations by award-winning authors and writers on a variety of Western history subjects. This year’s slate includes:
Shakespeare on the 1890s Arizona Stage:
The Thrilling Productions of Louis James
Tom Collins and Karen Churchill dive into the world of thespians and playwrites in Territorial Arizona and its capital city of Prescott, and feature the boyish prankster and legendary Louis James.
True Crime in Frontier Prescott
Brad Courtney and Drew Desmond tag-team hair-raising tales of real crime in early Prescott and the AZ Territory, from jailbreaks to conspiracies, homicidal carjacking to murder by poisoning.
Arizona: A History of Snake Oil Salesmen, Scams and Hoaxes
Christine Reid digs up the dubious history of old Arizona, and illustrates some of the most famous (and lesser-known) embarrassing scams and hoaxes that have found gullible in Arizonans.
Exploring Arizona
Museum Curator Mick Woodcock spins off the exhibit Exploring Arizona and follows the trails of trappers, miners, Conquistadors, and other early explorers of Arizona... before it was Arizona. For presentation times and video logins, contact the Museum media department, 928-277-2015.
Graphics from the powerpoint presentations to be featured at the 18th annual Western History Symposium, from holdups and jailed criminals to flim-flam artists and snake oil salemen and their scams, to the earliest European explorations of the New Spain, New Mexico and territorial United States, and more.
Special Section:
Greater Prescott is Greatest for Fall Hikes
by Blake Herzog
There are trails to be explored everywhere here, in the forests, the grasslands, and of course, in the Granite Dells where the two collide in spectacular fashion.
Fall in Prescott was created for hikers.
That’s probably not entirely true, but look around — the Bradshaw Mountains and the Sierra Prieta, the Granite Dells, Thumb Butte, Granite Mountain, Glassford Hill and Mingus Mountain beckon as they always do, and the temperatures are perfect for a good workout that won’t overwork your body.
There are trails to be explored everywhere here, in the forests, the grasslands, and of course, in the Granite Dells where the two collide in spectacular fashion.
Hiking is for all ages and can be done year-round. Devotees can be found trekking through the wilderness and
urban landscape throughout the winter, though trudging through ice and snow should be left up to the experts.
Autumn is ideal for brisk romps and witnessing the changes of the season up close. Every area unfolds a little bit differently, but here are some of the most reliable locations for seeing great fall color.
Granite Basin Lake Trails — Found west of Prescott off Iron Springs Road, this lake in Prescott National Forest is teeming with high-color producers including fetid goosefoot and Virginia creepers (a tree-climbing vine that turns into a vibrant red).
There are 33 miles of trails along and around the lake, a web of easy to mod-
erate paths that gives users plenty of opportunities to observe and take photos of the brilliant hues all around them. The Mint Wash and Granite Basin Lake Loop form a 3-mile circuit through dense vegetation, though only a small portion runs along the lake itself.
Many of autumn’s best and brightest are found throughout the national forest, which has plenty of evergreens but is dotted by pockets of ash, maple, oaks, cottonwoods, aspen, poplars and sycamore. Wolf Creek Loop, Goldwater and Lynx lakes and Copper Basin are some of the other excellent choices for colorful hiking.
Greenways Trail System — Oldgrowth cottonwoods line much of
this 2.5-mile line of paths along Granite and Miller creeks on the west edge of downtown from Mile High Middle School on the south to Granite Creek Park and over to the Rodeo Grounds in the north. Crowns of red and gold from people’s back yards contribute to the palette you’ll be treated to.
These easy-rated paths are perfect for day-trippers who want to see the historic downtown and experience the crispness of fall. Nearby Courthouse Plaza is also a prime destination for leaf- and people-watching.
Constellation Trails — A cluster of paths fanning out over boulders on the eastern edge of the Granite Dells,
the trailhead sits just across Highway 89 from the Phippen Museum.
This spot on the northern edge of the Dells, across Route 89 from the Phippen Museum, has something for every level of hiker, with more level ground than some of the nearby trails but plenty of rough patches to provide a challenge. The scrub oak trees around the trailhead do provide some fall color, and the relative lack of shade through the rest of the course isn’t the issue it can be during the summer.
These trails incorporate packed dirt paths and slippery rock surfaces as they thread through the boulders for a combined 3.53 miles. The elevation ranges from 5,024 feet to 5,236 feet, with more noticeable inclines and declines on the south end.
The outer loop of the trails, 2.7 miles, can be completed in about 1.5 hours. You can extend or shorten your stay by cutting across or doubling back on the loops, with names like Ham and Cheese, Hully Gully, North 40, Lost Wall and Hole in the Wall.
Watson Lake Loop — Comprised of several trails of varying difficulty, this nearly 5-mile loop is a testament both to the extensive network of multiuse recreational trails here and the untamable shore of the lake itself.
The Peavine and Lakeshore trails
bracket the southern shores of the lake with readily accessible, comparatively easy paths, while the Northshore and Over the Hill trails can challenge even experienced hikers with slick granite surfaces, shoe’s-width path in spots and the overwhelming beauty of the place, with sky-high cottonwoods and aspens providing a colorful canopy in many spots.
No matter where hikers are on the loop, they are rewarded with spectacular views of the lake and the Dells that surround it. Vistas also reveal views of the city and the autumnal hues slowly taking over.
Autumn is ideal for brisk romps and witnessing the changes of the season up close.
PHOTO BY BLUSHING CACTUS PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY DENNIS GALLOWAY
PHOTO BY BLAKE HERZOG
Constellation Trail
Granite Basin Lake
Watson Lake Loop Trail
Changing Face of Recreation; Adapting to Pandemic Demands
by Kelly Tolbert, Recreation Coordinator, City of Prescott • Photos by Rick Hormann
Thankfully, Prescott is many things, with perhaps the most notable being the wonderful sense of community it exhibits, especially in times of distress. Existing partnerships have flourished among the pandemic guidelines; in fact they continue to thrive more every day as our need continues to pivot.
As we prepare to greet our fall months, there is much to reflect upon as we continue to be adaptable to the uncertain future.
Living during a pandemic has changed almost every aspect of our daily lives. Planning for anything is nearly impossible with guidelines pertaining to group sizes, travel, mask mandates, closures, and availability of products subject to change at essentially a moment’s notice.
For now, indoor sports leagues are taking a hiatus.
Fall usually welcomes City Adult Volleyball leagues, while the typical softball season wraps up tournaments on the weekends. Plans for winter basketball leagues and gym play are all on hold or canceled.
There is a noticeable shift to outdoor recreation opportunities that has left bicycle suppliers and nonmotorized water sports suppliers with challenges keeping product in stock. The public tennis courts next to Ken Lindley Field and Park are experiencing record use along with our three City lakes, multiuse hiking trails and campgrounds are filled each week.
Recognizing a need to keep volunteers and program participants engaged, the City’s adult special needs program (SNAP-Special Needs Activity Program) created a way to adapt because the core aspects of the program include a well-attended dance,
craft night and BINGO activity night each month. The program coordinator, Karlyne Crewse, along with her volunteers and assistants assembled several drive-thru parking-lot events, distributing themed giveaway bags for participants and their caregivers to drive up, wave from afar, and feel some sense of normalcy.
Witnessing individuals and families getting acquainted with nature (some for the first time) has been an enlightening process for recreation professionals. However, properly educating people on how to be a responsible land user is an ongoing process.
Recently, the Arizona Office of Tourism formed a partnership with Leave No Trace, a Center for Outdoor Ethics (a Colorado-based nonprofit) becoming just the second state to have done so. This means several exciting things, and for a recreation participant it likely will mean more visual messaging at your favorite parks, trails and other recreation areas on how to leave things better than you found them. The messaging may seem self-explanatory, but to many visitors it is not.
Until the recent past, it has been the goal of Parks and Recreation professionals to extend services to as many people as possible. Paring back activities and the number of participants is pretty foreign and has required fluidity while working to offer experiences that enrich individuals’ lives. The immediate effects of this reduction of what could be deemed “before COVID” activities — for example any of the signature special events held within the City annually — is to correlate the notable increased visits to parks, trails and playgrounds.
Historically, children have been a primary beneficiary of Park and Recreation-based offerings with familiar areas to go when children are out of school. School districts are now faced with the same conundrum, finding
adequate outdoor classroom space to resume a somewhat customary academic year.
Thankfully, Prescott is many things, with perhaps the most notable being the wonderful sense of community it exhibits, especially in times of distress. Existing partnerships have flourished among the pandemic guidelines; in fact they continue to thrive more every day as our need continues to pivot. Already in partnership via an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA), Prescott Unified School District responded to an offer to get neigh-
boring schools back to nature by using the Prescott Community Nature Center for outdoor classrooms and state-mandated distance learning.
Local nonprofit G.E.M. Environmental has been using the same property to fulfill its mission of creating “an avenue for the advancement of students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) programs into industry careers by providing unique educational opportunities for personal growth” (www.gemenvironmental.org).
It felt natural for them to become involved with site improvements, continuing to use the open space for outdoor classrooms and conducting community improvement projects within our parks. The City of Prescott is very thankful for their generosity. Arizona Serve, a program facilitated through Prescott College, has effectively staffed the Community Nature Center with a full-time AmeriCorps staff person to assist with all of the new demands placed on the property. The hope is this collaboration will continue well into the future.
These are examples of how we were one of the few municipalities able to begin our adult softball leagues amid COVID, by implementing the recommendations set forth by CDC guidelines. We extended dugout space for social distancing, marked the sidewalk outside of the concessions booth, installed hand sanitizer stations and posted these reminders throughout the park.
While there have been many important contributors to the success of these required adaptations, the significance of looking back over the past year is seeing how resilient humans are when the spirit of a community joins forces.
Times may not allow for what has been considered traditional family events, like the Fourth of July celebrations so unique to Prescott, but we live in a wonderful community that unites when times are difficult. We are Prescott Strong. For more information please visit www.prescott-az.gov
ELISABETH RUFFNER: Immeasurable Success through Unmatched Leadership
by Dennis Gallagher, Founder and CEO, Prescott Western Heritage Foundation, Inc .
Elisabeth Ruffner will be remembered as the quintessential Renaissance woman. She was a writer, a radio and TV host, an advocate for the arts, a cultural historian and a preservationist.
She was born Sept. 17, 1919 in Cincinnati, Ohio. She graduated from the University of Cincinnati and in 1940 traveled to Arizona by train to meet the family of her fiancé, Lester “Budge” Ruffner. She married him a short time later and fully embraced Arizona in general and Prescott in particular as her home. While raising her three children, Melissa, Rebecca and George, she began her career as a community volunteer.
Elisabeth dedicated much of her life to preserving and protecting more than 700 historic buildings in Arizona by getting them listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
In the 1950s, she became co-founder and president of the Prescott Community Hospital and Auxiliary. When it was relocated in 1964, the name was changed to Yavapai Community Hospital, and in 1984 it became the Yavapai Regional Medical Center.
In the 1970s, she led the campaign to build a new Prescott Library and to restore the 1903 Carnegie Library. When the construction of a new building threatened to demolish the historic Victorian Bashford House, Elisabeth saved it by having it relocated to the grounds of Sharlot Hall Museum.
Between her many other projects, she spearheaded the capital campaign for the Elks Opera House in Prescott, raising over $1.7 million for the successful renovation and preservation of this historic building, which was completed in 2010. She was chair of the state’s Historic Sites Committee, served as an adviser to the National Trust for Historic Preservation and received a Presidential appointment to the National Commission on
Libraries and Information Services.
In the 1990s, she founded the Open Space Alliance and headed up the coalition through the early 2000s. Elisabeth also was one of the founders and the first president of the Arizona Preservation Foundation — an organization that works with local, state and national partners to promote and protect Arizona’s historical, archeological, architectural and cultural resources. In addition, she served as founding president of the Prescott Area Arts and Humanities Council and president of the Yavapai Heritage Foundation.
A dedicated steward of Prescott’s libraries, heritage and historic preservation, and supporter of the arts, Elisabeth was recognized statewide and nationally for her efforts. She garnered numerous prestigious awards. A partial list of awards given to Elisabeth over the years include:
1969 — Prescott Business and Professional Woman’s Club declared her Woman of the Year 1969 — Rosenzweig Award from the Arizona State Library Association for outstanding citizen participation in the development of community libraries
1976 — Awarded a citation as Trustee of the Year from the American Library Association
1980 — Cultural Achievement Award from the U.S. Department of the Interior
1980 — Arizona Governor’s award for Historic Preservation
1980 — Individual Award at the 29th annual Governor’s Arts Awards
2003 — Arizona “Culture Keeper” Award
2008 — Historic Preservationist and Community Activist Award
2008 — Named History Maker by the Arizona Historical Society
2014 — Western “Heritage Keeper” Award by the Prescott Western Heritage Foundation
Prescott Mayor Greg Mengarelli said in a City Council statement: “Elisabeth will forever be a true Prescott icon, and her contributions to our city and our state were immeasurable.”
Of note, in 2010 Elisabeth was the first person I approached for advice and support for the vision/concept to create a Western Heritage Center in downtown Prescott. She was a great supporter and excited about the Center’s opening in May 2019, although she passed before she could visit it.
Special Section:
‘It’s a Lifestyle Choice to Buy Local Food’
by Blake Herzog
The Greater Prescott area is better known for its ranching than its farming, but there’s enough of both to support a thriving local food scene, with a farmers market with nearly 50 vendors that sell crops to restaurants, as well as residents eager to join the movement.
Advocates of shopping for local food say it’s fresher and healthier, retaining more flavor and nutrients than what’s been shipped in from a distant state or country. It also supports your community economically while reducing the environmental impact of your shopping choices.
In their own words, local experts explain the why, where and how of shopping and eating local.
John Panza, Owner and Executive Chef BiGA 623 Miller Valley Road, Prescott bigaprescott.com
“We would much rather support small farms around this area than outsourcing
everything to larger corporations. With that, in turn, it also keeps the money and the economics going inside of this small community. Instead of spending all our money at big corporations and sending it overseas, or wherever it may go, we know that our money is staying here in Prescott and in northern Arizona. And with that, in return comes support from these other farms and stuff, and they in turn spend their money locally.
“And it’s all this kind of circle community event going on that keeps all the money and keeps the economics here where it should be.
“As far as quality of ingredients, it surpasses anything you can buy from larger companies, getting things local and getting things picked the day of or the day before you get them make some last so much longer in your restaurant. But the freshness and the good taste of that food is just unmatched. You can’t find it any other way than to shop and support local.
“We’ve also built a lot of strong relationships with the farms and the farmers and different ranchers where our kids know their kids. And we see complete community support from everyone. It’s really cool to see us go to the market, and our kids go run off with some of the farmers’ kids and play with them. And we’re talking with the farmers and building relationships that way, talking about next year and what to grow for next year. And what we can play with on our menu.
“We change probably about 25% to 30% of our menu every week based off the local farms and the Prescott Farmers Market. And what we find there, most of our entrees, some of our appetizers, our soups, a sand-
WHIPSTONE FARM PAULDEN
BIGA PRESCOTT BRANZINO
BIGA PRESCOTT
wich once in a while, is all inspired just by the local food, the local produce that we find. And then in turn, that means we have to be very adaptable with our menu and kind of go with the flow of things. Because you know, one week I can order a bunch of carrots and they’re really small, and I can cook them a certain way. And then the next week, they grew more, and they’re a lot bigger.”
Ryan Peters, Executive Chef/Owner FARM Provisions
148 N. Montezuma St., Prescott farmprovisionsaz.com
“Here are some of our locally sourced ingredients, where we get them from, and dishes they are used in.
“Whipstone Farms, Paulden — Red and yellow onions, rainbow carrots, basil, tomatoes, fennel, leeks, arugula, mint, parsley, turnips, Chioggia beets, chili peppers, heirloom squash, cucumbers, wholly smoked and splittooth hot sauces, and more.
“There are many dishes that use these ingredients including goat cheese salad, salm-
on entree, short rib entree, sea bass entree, tomato gazpacho, burrata, squash pasta and many more.
“AZ Grass Raised Beef Company, Chino Valley — Grass-fed burgers and grass-fed New York strip.
“Mount Hope Wholesale, Cottonwood — All spices, nuts, sun-dried strawberries, figs, agave nectar, tahini, dried sweet corn, etc.
“Prescott Roasters Prescott Valley — All coffee and espresso.
“Crows Dairy Farms, Buckeye — Goat cheese.
“All of our beers on tap are local to Arizona.”
Kaolin Randall, Director of Community Outreach, Prescott Farmers Market 900 N. Iron Springs Road (Saturdays) 119 W. Goodwin St. (Wednesdays) prescottfarmersmarket.org
“So, summer vegetables, summer squash, zucchini, tomatoes, peppers, roasted chilies, that sort of thing, they’re a little bit late this year. But you know, in a month, those things won’t be around anymore. It just is a case of
weather. And you know, not everyone has a greenhouse, they’re just out the elements. We’re all subject to that, of course.
“There will be spinach and chard and collard greens, hardier things, along with the radishes, more the root vegetables, still. Carrots are kind of available year-round. We’ll have pumpkins of course, they’re starting to pop, and butternut squash, things like that.
“You know, it’s a lifestyle choice to choose to buy local food versus what’s in the grocery store. So there’s a learning curve there for people who come in the summer and things are super abundant, and everybody loves eating tomatoes and peppers and things like that, and then it’s kind of like pumpkin spice season and then winter vegetables are boring to some people. So it just becomes an exercise of being creative with what you’re making and you know, maybe falling in line with FARM Provisions and BiGA because they’ll be using some of those winter ingredients.
“First of all, come to the market. It’s coming out and making the relationships with the people who grow your food personal. You don’t know who grew the tomato in the grocery store, but you know who grew the tomato at the market because they’re right there selling it to you. One of the cool things about the Prescott Farmers Market is that we’re producer-only, which means that everyone who sells something makes or grows that product. There is no reselling.”
BIGA PRESCOTT SQUASH BLOSSOM ZUCCHINI BREAD
Post Covid-19 Travel—
How Will it Impact Us?
by Margo Christensen, Vice President, Marketing & Public Relations, Ponderosa Hotel Management Services
Iwonder if what I’m writing will be relevant six weeks from now. Will we be on another lockdown? Will there be additional travel restrictions in place, or fewer? Will another wave of the virus be surfacing causing businesses to close? And most importantly, will schools and universities be opened to in-person learning?
For the businesses we own, we were pretty lucky because hotels are considered essential. As board chairperson of the City of Prescott Tourism Advisory Committee, I am in close touch with our City’s tourism office and keep track of local and state data related to travel patterns and visitor spending. While March through May was decimating to our local hotels and travel-related industries and
jobs, there is no question travel to Prescott is on the rebound.
We are fortunate Prescott is a smaller metro area and desirable destination with an abundance of outdoor activities. The trend now is in-state travel, short driving trips and exploring the outdoors.
I realize some don’t want people to travel to Prescott for fear the virus will be brought in from another city or state. But the economic reality is that approximately 60% of our sales-tax revenue is generated from outof-town visitors.
I hope people are thinking about Thanksgiving and Christmas travel plans; I can only hope
most of our iconic holiday events will continue. We will miss the American Lutheran Hand Bell Choir this year in our lobby of SpringHill Suites for Acker night (already canceled), and we are unsure yet if Santa Claus will be able to join us on December weekends.
On a different subject, and one close to me, the Prescott Chamber of Commerce launched the Save the Bars Campaign in August. We are proud SpringHill Suites and Residence Inn by Marriott contributed $2,500 to the campaign, which directs grants toward the bars forced to be closed for so long. More money is needed to help them get back on their feet again.
PIZZA
Specialty Pizza or Build Your Own
Thin, Hand Tossed, or Pan Pizza
Small-Medium-Large-Xtra Large
Over 60 cheeses, meats, vegetables and custom toppings to choose from Gluten Free 10”, 12”, 14”
Individual Slices
SALADS
SMALL-MEDIUM-LARGE
Garden
Greek
Caesar
Chopped Salad
Spinach
Wedge
Antipasta
SUBS
15 to choose from
PASTA
Spaghetti
Penne
Rotini
Ravioli
Tortellini
WINGS
Regular / Boneless / Jumbo
8 flavors to choose from
Mini / Traditional / Jumbo Sizes include cheese and sauce and can add any pizza topping
THE PRESCOTT PIONEER
PRESCOTT • PRESCOTT VALLEY • CHINO VALLEY • DEWEY-HUMBOLDT
New Regional Director of Alzheimer’s Association Tackles Major Challenges
Lesley Jenkins, regional director of Desert Southwest Chapter-Alzheimer’s Association, is facing challenges in her new job; her territory is larger than some states. That became even more complicated when COVID-19 literally shut down face-to-face meetings throughout the five counties for which she is responsible.
Her job involves creating more awareness and support groups for what has become an insidious illness attacking Arizonans — dementia caused by Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s is the most common cause — 60% to 80% — of all dementia cases. It’s the fifth leading cause of death in Arizona.
She said the catchphrase often used by the organization is most appropriate: “Alzheimer’s Association — the brains behind saving yours.”
Jenkins cited data from the “2020 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures” statistical report that Arizona leads the nation by
having the highest growth rate of Alzheimer’s disease. Currently, more than 150,000 people 65 and older have been diagnosed, and that figure is predicted to increase by as much as 33% by 2025. Two-thirds of Alzheimer’s victims are women.
Jenkins replaced Meg Fenzi, previous regional director who retired in February 2019. Jenkins said the past 10 months have been especially difficult for her and her staff of two. They all work from the office at 3111 Clearwater Drive in Prescott.
The region they cover includes more than 66,000 square miles.
“We work with people in Apache, Coconino, Mohave, Navajo and Yavapai counties. It’s a growing population of more than 773,000. Many are older people who are susceptible to dementia,” Jenkins said. “Even though lately we haven’t been able to travel to all these communities, we try to recruit volunteers in various areas to help.”
“Additionally, we’ve a variety of resources and programs that help people cope with all aspects of the disease and its progression,” she said.
Jenkins said her most immediate challenge is to organize the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s scheduled for Greater Prescott Oct. 3 and for the Verde Valley on Oct. 24.
She said it is a part of a large event to raise funds to create awareness and support for Alzheimer’s care and research.
“Because of the pandemic, we’re pivoting to do it virtually this year. Even so, we are calling on persons of all ages and abilities from throughout Northern Arizona to step forward and join in this major effort. We are committed to focus not only upon care and support for families in this region but also to help fund research to find a cure.”
Among resources is a 24/7 Helpline at 800-272-3900, where a trained consultant is available to talk confidentially and provide information about Alzheimer’s and related dementias.
Also available:
• Support groups — Free forums conducted by trained individuals are offered throughout the five counties. Most are for dementia care partners. Some are for individuals diagnosed with early stage dementia.
• Ongoing education — Trained volunteers introduce audiences to all aspects of the disease and provide resources to help caregivers find assistance.
• Early-stage programing — Programs include spe-
cific activities focusing on engaging, encouraging and empowering diagnosed persons with using their strength and capacities as long as possible.
• Safety services — Through collaboration with the greater Alzheimer’s Association and the MedicAlert Foundation, membership plans provide 24/7 Wandering Support, an emergency response service for people with dementia who tend to wander or have other medical issues.
Jenkins Has Solid Professional Credentials
From Nashville, Tennessee, Jenkins has a Bachelor of Science degree in journalism, speech communication, and theater from Tennessee State University. In her early career, she was assistant director for media relations for Ohio State University. She also had experience in public relations for the City of Columbus. She met her future husband, Rodney Jenkins, when they were working in Lock Haven, Pennsylvania. She was the associate director and member coordinator for the YMCA there.
Her husband has been a college and university administrator most of his professional career. In 2017, Rodney accepted a position as vice president of community relations at Yavapai College in Prescott. They have two sons, Jayden, 16, and Jared, 13.
The Alzheimer’s Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. For more local information, contact ldjenkins@alz.org.
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