Prescott Living - Spring 2019

THE HOME & GARDEN ISSUE

“THE VOICE OF THE COMMUNITY”

THUMB BUTTE MEDICAL CENTER

“OUR MISSION IS TO TREAT PATIENTS WITH UTMOST RESPECT AND DIGNITY IN A HEALING ENVIRONMENT”

HOJAT ASKARI, M.D.

Founder, Medical Director, Board Certified Internal Medicine

PRESCOTT

3124 Willow Creek Rd. Prescott, AZ 86301

928.445.7085

PRESCOTT VALLEY: 6496 E. HWY 69

Prescott Valley, AZ 86314

928.775.9007

Mohammad Golparian, M.D.

Board Certified Internal Medicine

Ali Askari, M.D., F.A.C.P.

Cardiologist

Siamak Rassadi, M.D.

CardiologistElectrophysiology

Kaveh Karandish, M.D.

Board Certified Internal Medicine and Cosmetic Medicine

Mohsen Sharifi, M.D.

CardiologistVein Specialist

Serj Nazarian, D.P.M.

FootandAnkle Surgeon

AND URGENT CARE

Now offering house calls by request

Hours: Monday - Friday 7 AM - 6 PM

Saturday 8 AM - 2 PM

Maddie Assar, M.D. Radiologist

Advanced breastimaging & earlybreastcancer detection. “Sofia”

Joesph P Maidl, PA PhysiciansAssistance

Michael Frost, FNP FamilyNursePractitioner/BC

Denise Eldred PhysicalTherapist

Jonathan Brewer Massage Therapist

Victoria Ray Permanent Cosmetics

Terry M. Barns, ANP Adult Nurse Practitioner

Bardia Sinael, DMD General and Cosmetic Dentist

Brenda Lummer Hearing Aid Technician

METROLAB AND LABCORP

CONVENIENTLY LOCATED IN PRESCOTT LOCATION

Retirement investing can lead to many questions

Which

With

FINALLY! THE HONEST TRUTH BEHIND THE REVERSE MORTGAGE

by Travis Schultz, Owner and Licensed Mortgage Broker, Smart Mortgage

Are reverse mortgages not all they’re cracked up to be? Can they truly add the stability you need for financial planning and your retirement, or are they just another way to steal away your home, equity or inheritance? Since the product began back in 1989, local Prescott reverse mortgage expert Travis Schultz at Smart Mortgage says we may be surprised with the honest truth behind the reverse mortgage!

• No mortgage payments for life? – (True) As long as either spouse considers the property as his or her primary home, they can live there for life paying zero mortgage payments.

• All applicants must be 62 years old or older – (False) Only one spouse needs to be 62 years old. The other spouse may be younger.

• You must own your home outright –(False) You may already have an existing mortgage, which can be refinanced and paid off with a reverse mortgage.

• The income or cash I receive is not taxable – (True) Any money you receive, whether monthly, a cash sum or in a home equity line is all nontaxable to do with as you wish.

• You must have good credit and income for a reverse mortgage – (False) Since re-

verse mortgages do not require a mortgage payment, almost anyone with any type of credit and income may be eligible.

• Once into the reverse mortgage you are locked into it, permanently – (False) The reverse mortgage is simply a loan recorded against the property, just like every other mortgage. You retain full ownership, so at any time you can move, sell or refinance the property simply by paying off the mortgage balance.

• If I take out a reverse mortgage, I will leave nothing for my family – (False) Reverse mortgages have insurance automatically built in to protect the family. Most homes continue to increase in value over time, leaving even more equity for family. Even if property values decrease below what is owed, the family can acquire the property for 5% less than market value.

• You can only get a reverse mortgage on a one-unit home – (False) Smart Mortgage also allows reverse mortgages on manufactured homes, duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, townhomes and condos, as long as one unit is considered your primary residence.

• My family will be responsible for the debt – (False) The reverse mortgage is a non-recourse loan, so if your value ever

falls below what you owe, your family will never have to pay the deficiency.

• The government or lender will own my home – (False) The reverse mortgage is simply a lien recorded against the property, just like any other mortgage. The homeowner(s) remains on title and has full ownership. The owner(s) may also add other family members or place the home in a trust, so family automatically has ownership in the property and equity, as well.

• You can purchase a home using a reverse mortgage – (True) Smart Mortgage allows you to purchase a primary home and the financed amount has no payments for life.

PUBLISHER

Elaine Earle, CPA

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Bea Lueck

PRESCOTT

Ray Newton

DIRECTOR

Laurie Fisher

SENIOR

Lance Besore

CREATIVE DIRECTOR/GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Tim Clarke

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Rebecca Bowen

Shannon Price

CUSTOMER SERVICE/AD TRAFFIC MANAGER

Jo Wobser

PUBLIC RELATIONS & MARKETING MANAGER

Julie Turetzky

COMMENTS & IDEAS

editor@roxco.com

CALENDAR INQUIRIES calendar@roxco.com • prescottlivingmag.com/calendar

SUBSCRIPTIONS

info@roxco.com • prescottlivingmag.com/copies

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES info@roxco.com • prescottlivingmag.com/advertise

130 N. Granite St., Prescott AZ 86301 • 928-350-8006

Corporate Office: 442 W. Kortsen Rd, Ste 101 Casa Grande, AZ 85122

520.426.2074

SPRING IS HERE

Ilove this time of year! After this winter’s tremendous amount of snow and Snowmageddon, Snowpocalypse and Snowzilla or whatever you want to call it ... we are looking forward to spring flowers, lots of green and temperatures not too hot or cold. Plus there is so much to do in the Prescott area!

For those budding artists, the 11th annual Chalk It Up takes place in Prescott April 13 and 14. Head over to the National Bank of Arizona parking lot, grab your free box of chalk and create your own art. Work together on a family project, or stake out your claim on your own pavement square while enjoying the local entertainment and music.

I think one of the best kept secrets in our mountain region is the Highlands Center for Natural History. It offers hands-on exploration and discovery of the fascinating outdoors, including all sorts of critters, bugs and blossoms. Saturday, April 13 is the Spring Spectacular and on May 11 the Migratory Bird Fest. It’s fun and educational for all and worth putting on your family calendar.

At the end of this month is the Whiskey Off-Road bike race, errr … We should probably call it an event. The best mountain bikers in the world along with all levels of amateurs come together to ride, rub shoulders and compete on courses from 15 to 50 miles. There is truly something for everyone from kids to pros, and even if you’re not a biker, you will enjoy the vibe and the free concerts. I’ve got my cowbell ready to cheer them on!

For those who love to compete on their legs instead of their wheels, the Whiskey Row Marathon takes place the following weekend, Saturday, May 4, 2019. It’s considered one of the “Toughest marathons in the United States” by Race Raves, but there are plenty of options for those interested in a shorter distance. My boys and I are already lacing up our running shoes to prepare to enter the 5k this year!

One of the things that makes Prescott great are the people who live here. We were all saddened to hear of the passing of the remarkable Elisabeth Ruffner, who first came to Prescott in 1940 and embraced the community wholeheartedly. Her contributions are way too numerous to count, but her staunch advocacy of the arts, education, libraries and historic preservation helped make Prescott the wonderful community it is today.

Pam Jones and David Hess discovered Prescott about 60 years later, but they, too, fell in love with the community and make it their quest to contribute in any way possible. If you don’t know them already, you’ll meet them in our featured ROX Interview.

This is our Home & Garden issue, so you’ll find lots of inspiration for all those projects you’ve been thinking about but didn’t get around to yet. I hope you enjoy this issue and hope to see you around town!

Elaine Earle Publisher, Prescott LIVING Magazine

VOICES

At Prescott LIVING Magazine, our slogan is “The Voice

of 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!

Frank Ayers

Chancellor, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Frank is the chancellor of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Prescott campus. Prior to Embry-Riddle, Ayers served in the U.S. Air Force for 26 years, logging in more than 6,000 flight hours.

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.

Margo Christensen

Vice PresidentofMarketing and Public Relations

Ponderosa Hotel ManagementServices

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

FounderandPresident,PrescottWesternHeritageFoundation

Dennis is the founder and president of the Prescott Western Heritage Foundation Inc. He is also a Western artist/bronze sculptor and an active volunteer for various community events. He and his wife, MaryAnn, have been married 50 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 experience.

Tracey Horn

Owner, Helken & HornAdvertisingAgency

Tracey has been assisting 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.

Leslie Horton, MA, MCHES

DirectorofYavapai CountyCommunityHealth Services,CountyHealthOfficer

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.

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.

Tricia Lewis

CommunicationsProfessionalADOTandWorld’s Oldest Rodeo

Tricia is a communications professional with the Arizona Department of Transportation. She also serves as the marketing agency for the World's Oldest Rodeo® and other high-profile clients in the greater Prescott area.

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.

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 Polk

Yavapai CountyAttorney

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.”

Tom Reilly

President,CEORenovations,YourCompleteRemodelResource

As an architect and general contractor, Tom has been designing and building in Prescott for the past 36 years. He has also served on many committees, including Prescott City Council and Yavapai County Planning and Zoning Commission.

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.

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.

Prescott Parks & Rec Department

• Samara Rice-Cummings, Recreation Services Administrative Specialist

• Patti Crouse, Recreation Services Administrative Coordinator

• Rick Hormann, Recreation Services Supervisor

• Michelle Stacy-Schroeder, Recreation Services Coordinator

• Kelly Tolbert, Recreation Services Coordinator

Yavapai Humane Society

• Kristen Kerns, Director of Donor Development

• Loree Walden, Marketing Manager

• Gina Angueira, Development & Marketing Coordinator

• Lauren Lovan, Grant & Communications Specialist

Hello! We’re ROX Media Group

Prescott LIVING Magazine is brought to you by ROX Media Group, a multimedia organization providing an annual portfolio of 3.6 million print copies of community, custom and travel publications throughout Arizona and in neighboring states. Our publications collectively reach millions of consumers who reside in or travel to Arizona every year, and bring engaging local

content to the communities and marketing partners we serve.

Since our founding in 2011, we have earned the respect of our readers and marketing partners through our dedication to high quality, local content and our understanding of the key informational needs that drive media consumption, messaging and interaction.

Some of our additional offerings include:

Elaine Earle Publisher

Elaine is an accomplished publisher and management professional with 20 years of experience as a Certified Public Accountant and publisher of a diverse set of marketing products. Elaine and her team bring a “one firm” solution to clients. She has a passion for traveling and has been to over 40 countries.

• A full suite of creative services for any project

• Custom publications created, designed, edited, printed and distributed

• Digital media marketing services and website creation

• Project management services

In addition to this publication you hold in your hand, ROX Media Group has been serving the Prescott area with our publication Quad-City Smart Shopper beginning in 2013 and we are also the proud publisher of the Visitor Guide – Greater Prescott Area, which is published for the City of Prescott Office of Tourism. In 2018, RMG published the City of Prescott Economic Development Guide, which won the Golden Prospector Award of Merit. Starting with the 2019 issue, ROX Media Group is also the publisher of the Prescott Chamber of Commerce Community Guide & Directory.

Come see our new office at 130 N. Granite St., Prescott AZ 86301.

Meet Our Team:

Bea Lueck

General Manager & Managing Editor

Ray Newton Contributing Writer

Julie Turetzky

Public Relations & Marketing Manager

Lance Besore Senior Advertising Executive

Shannon

Price Graphic Designer

Bea is the general manager and managing editor of ROX Media Group. She handles the various day-to-day activities necessary to take the publications from concept to print and distribution. She has over 22 years of experience in multiple advertising media, including print, direct mail, television and web.

A veteran newspaperman, magazine and television reporter-editor, Ray also earned stripes at several universities, including Northern Arizona University, as a professor and administrator emeritus. Active throughout his adult years in several local, regional and national think-tank organizations, he’s a vocal advocate for giving back to communities where we live.

Julie is a marketing professional with 20 years of experience working in client and agency settings. Julie has created and managed marketing strategies across many industries, designed to meet client objectives and stay within an established budget.

Tim Clarke Creative Director

Katie Mayer Editor & Project Manager

Laurie Fisher Director of Sales & Marketing

Lance is an Arizona native who has lived all over the state. He attended the University of Arizona and studied English literature Lance started his sales career in earnest in 2000 in the telecom industry. In 2003, he started working for New Times/Village Voice Media. Within a few short years he was one of the top Senior account executives nationwide. Lance then went to work in financial areas, such as Private Equity.

Shannon joined ROX Media Group in September 2018. She has an associate degree in graphic design as well as a bachelor’s degree in business management with a concentration in marketing. Shannon is a graphic artist with more than six years of design experience and spent the past three years working in the newspaper industry. She and her family have lived in Casa Grande for over thirteen years.

Jo Wobser Customer Service/ Ad Traffic Manager

Rebecca Bowen Graphic Designer

Tim is a digital design professional with more than 28 years of experience. Tim is responsible for all creative consulting, magazine design, print production and web development for ROX Media Group. He manages production for multiple publications as well as multiple Drupal and Wordpress sites for external clients.

Katie is an accomplished senior copywriter and editor with 12 years of experience working with everything from daily print newspapers to magazines and trade publications. She is also an award-winning journalist and guest lecturer at her Alma Mater, the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University.

Laurie joins ROX Media Group as our new Director of Sales and Marketing from California. She is a marketing professional with over 25-years of experience, specializing in print and digital media such as SEM, SEO and social media, and enjoys helping her clients to achieve their marketing goals. Customer service is her No. 1 priority! Laurie is an avid hiker and cyclist who loves the outdoors and looks forward to enjoying the beauty of Prescott.

Jo joined the ROX Media Group team in March 2018 following a career in customer service spanning more than 20 years. This rewarding experience coupled with her skill sets as a graphic designer and photographer allow her to provide excellent service and guidance to the ROX Media Group advertising clients she serves every day.

Rebecca is a graphic designer with over six years of experience in the design and marketing industries. She has her associate's degree in graphic design and her bachelor's degree in communications with a sub-specialization in marketing. She enjoys solving marketing challenges with eye-catching visuals and strategic layout design.

Submit your events online at prescottlivingmag.com

APRIL

4

A Special Evening with Red Molly - 7:00 PM - Elks Theatre 117 E. Gurley St., Prescott. Vocal trio Red Molly returns to Prescott! For tickets call 928-777-1370 or visit www.prescottelkstheater.com for showtimes.

5-6

Mortimer's Adult Easter Egg Hunt - 6:30 PM-9:00

PM - Mortimer Farms @ The Barn 12907 E. State Rte. 169, Dewey. Limited tickets $25. 21+ event. Visit mortimerfarmsaz.com for info

6

2019 Spring Gala - 2:00 PMPrescott Center for the Arts 208 N. Marina, Prescott. Visit pca-az.net for info or call 928-445-3286.

6-7

Menopause - The Musical - 7:00 PM-9:00

PM - Elks Theatre 117 E. Gurley St., Prescott. Sat. 7PM. Sun. 2PM. For tickets call 928-777-1370 or visit www.prescottelkstheater.com for showtimes.

7 Central Arizona Concert Band in Concert - 3:00 PM-5:00 PMERAU - Davis Learning Center 3700 Willow Creek Rd., Prescott. Enjoy great symphonic band music! Visit centralarizonaconcertband.com for tickets & info.

11-20 Disney's Winnie the Pooh: Family Theater - Prescott Center for the Arts 208 N. Marina, Prescott. Visit pca-az. net for info or call 928-445-3286.

12 Presidio Brass - 7:30 PM9:30 PM - Yavapai College Performing Arts Center 1100 E Sheldon St., Prescott. Tickets online at www.YPAC.com or at the Box Office: (928) 776-2000.

13 Spring Spectacular - Family Nature Festival - 9:00 AM-12:00 PM - Highlands Center for Natural History - in the James Family Discovery Garden

13

American Association of University Women (AAUW) General Meeting - 9:00 AM-11:30 AM - Yavapai College 1100 E. Sheldon, Prescott. Bldg. 19. *Maintaining Civility in Divisive Times," Basant Virdee, Communications Coordinator for the National Institute for Civil Discourse. Program is open to the public.

13

Breakfast with the Animals - 9:00 AM-10:30 AMHeritage Park Zoo 1403 Heritage Park Rd., Prescott. Pre-registration required. Visit HeritageParkZoo.org for info.

13 April Living History - 10:00 AM-3:00 PM - Sharlot Hall Museum 415 W. Gurley St., Prescott. Visit sharlot.org for more info.

13-14

Crossroads of the West Gun Show9:00 AM - Findlay Toyota Center, Prescott Valley.

13

Coping with Sloping - Garden Class - 9:30 AM-10:30 AMWatters Garden Center 1815 W. Iron Springs Rd., Prescott. Free class on ground covers & erosion control. Visit wattersgardencenter.com for info.

13-14 Contemporary Native Arts Festival - 10:00 AM - Smoki Museum

13 Next Steps for Prescott's Creeks & Lakes - 10:00 AM-12:00 PM - Granite Peak Unitarian Universalist Congregation 882 Sunset Ave., Prescott. City of Prescott Environmental Coordinator, Matt Killeen discusses next steps toward improving water quality. For more info visit cwagaz.org.

13 Food Truck Roundup 211:00 AM-4:00 PM - Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce 75 E Rd. 2 S., Chino Valley. Local eats from our local gourmet food trucks,

live entertainment, family friendly, vendors and much more.

14 The Phoenix Symphony in Prescott - 3:00 PM - YCPAC 1100 E. Sheldon St., Prescott. To purchase tickets call Yavapai Symphony Association 928-776-4255.

17

Ferris Bueller's Day Off / Movies @ The Elks! - 7:00 PM-9:00 PM - Elks Theater 117 E. Gurley St., Prescott. Admission is a cash donation of any amount. All proceeds go to support The Elks Theatre and Performing Arts Center’s community outreach programs. Call 928-777-1370 for info.

18 Raskin's Jewelers Presents: Zoe Chicco Trunk Show!4:00 PM-7:00 PM - Raskin's Jewelers 110 W. Gurley St., Prescott. 1st 25 get FREE glam bag. Register to win gift from Zoe Chicco. Visit @ raskinsjeweler on Facebook for info.

19

Growing Your Own Groceries - 4:00 PM-5:00 PMWatters Garden Center 1815 W. Iron Springs Rd., Prescott. Free gardening class, special time. Everything edible for the garden this spring! Visit wattersgardencenter.com for info.

19 Yavapalooza 2019 - 4:00 PM-8:00 PM - Yavapai College 1100 E Sheldon St., Prescott. $2 adults YC students and under 18 free. Visit yc.edu for more info.

19 Mid-Century Modern Night - 6:00 PM-8:00 PM - Elks Theater 117 E. Gurley St., Prescott. @ The Top of The Elks! Ft. The Mingus Mountain BopTet. $7 cover. Visit prescottelkstheater.com for more info.

19

One of These Nights - A Tribute to the Eagles - 7:00 PM-9:00 PM - Elks Theater 117 E. Gurley St., Prescott. Tickets available online. Visit prescottelkstheater.com for more info.

20 The Great Easter Egg Hunt - 11:00 AM-1:00 PM - Mile High Middle School Field 300 S. Granite St., Prescott. Kids $5, adults free. Visit prescottevents.net for more info.

24 One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest / Movies @ The Elks!7:00 PM-9:00 PM - Elks Theater 117 E. Gurley St., Prescott. Admission is a cash donation of any amount. All proceeds go to support The Elks Theatre and Performing Arts Center’s community outreach programs. Call 928-777-1370 for info.

25

From the Rhine to the Rhone - 5:00 PM-7:00 PMYavapai College 1100 E Sheldon St., Prescott. AAUW's annual scholarship fundraiser in the Richard Marcusen Sculpture Garden. Tickets $50. Visit yc.edu/gardenparty for info. Reserve by 4/19.

26-28

The Whiskey OffRoad - Courthouse Plaza, Prescott. 3-day mountain bike event, expo, concerts and fun. Visit epicrides.com for the full schedule and info.

27 Wines, Bites and Brew - 5:00 PM-8:00 PMEarthworks Landscape & Supply 2531 AZ-89, Chino Valley. Presented by Chino Valley Lioness. Visit ChinoValleyLioness.weebly.com for more info.

April – May 2019

3

Jake Shimabukuro - 7:30 PM-9:30 PM - Yavapai College Performing Arts Center 1100 E Sheldon St., Prescott. The charismatic ukulele wizard. Tickets online at www.YPAC.com or at the Box Office: (928) 776-2000.

4

Whiskey Row Marathon - 6:00 AM-12:00 PM - Downtown Prescott 120 S. Cortez St. Are you Tough Enough? Visit whiskeyrowmarathon.com for more info.

4

Team Up to Clean Up - 9:00 AM-1:00 PM - Prescott Valley Chamber Parking Lot 7120 Pav Way, Prescott Valley. Team up to clean our town. Visit pvchamber.org for info.

4

Grow Native Plant Sale - 8:00

AM-2:00 PM - Highlands Center for Natural History 1375 S. Walker Rd., Prescott. Annual sale event, FREE & open to the public. Call 928776-9550 or visit highlandscenter.org for more info.

4

Kaleidoscope of Color 2019, Prescott's Festival of Iris - 10:00 AM-3:00 PM - Mortimer Nursery 3166 Willow Creek Rd., Prescott. 10th annual event ft. an amazing variety of iris colors and patterns. Free event. Call 623-980-6627 for info.

4

Celebrating Women of the Wild West Afternoon Tea - 1:00 PM-3:30 PM - Hassayampa Inn 122 E. Gurley St., Prescott. Live & silent auction, raffle, guest speakers, food and more! Visit prescottshelters.org for more info.

4

Yavapai Youth Choirs Gala6:00 PM-9:00 PM - YCPAC 1100 E Sheldon St., Prescott.

Celebration of the most important and influential music of the '20s to the '50s. Call 928-776-2045 for info.

5 Music for Stage & Screen - 3:00 PM-5:00 PM - YCPAC 1100 E Sheldon St., Prescott. Students finish off the school year with a collection of favorites. Call 928-776-2045 for info.

11

PV Days Parade - 9:00 AM10:00 AM - Down Florentine from yavapai to Findlay Toyota Center, Prescott Valley. Celebrate PV Days 5/9-5-12. Carnival, vendors, parade. Visit pvchamber.org for more info.

11-12

33rd Annual Prescott Fine Art & Wine Festival - 9:00 AM-5:00 PM - Yavapai County Courthouse Plaza, Prescott. Free festival. Visit mountainartistsguild.org for more info.

18

Yarnell Daze - 50th Annual Mountaintop Festival - 7:00 AM-7:00 PM - Highway 89 Mile 277 to 278, Yarnell. FD pancake breakfast, parade, food, art, crafts, games, live music, dancing, beer garden. Free event. Call 928-277-6674 for info.

19

Piano Recital with Kenneth Broberg - 3:00 PM - YCPAC 1100 E. Sheldon St., Prescott. To purchase tickets call Yavapai Symphony Association 928-776-4255.

25-27

OffStreet Festival Arts & Craft Show

- 9:00 AM - Prescott Chamber of Commerce 117 W. Goodwin St., Prescott. Annual event over 100 Arts & Craft Vendor Booths. Visit prescott.org for info.

31-1 Sisters of the Thread Quilt Show - 9:00 AM-5:00 PM - Prescott High School 1050 N. Ruth St., Prescott. Thumb Butte Quilters presents

18 Frontier Arizona Experience - 10:00 AM-3:00 PM - Ft. Whipple Museum 500 AZ-89, Prescott. Located on the grounds of the VA hospital. Free admission. Visit sharlot.org for more info.

18 Museum Lecture Series: "Virgil Earp: Toughest of the Earps" - 2:00 PM-3:00 PM - Sharlot Hall Museum 415 W. Gurley St., Prescott. In the West Gallery of Lawler Exhibit. Free admission but limited seating. Visit sharlot.org for more info.

THE PRESCOTT

Stories by Ray Newton

Win, Place or Show Arizona Downs Opens Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day weekend sees the beginning of live horseracing at the formerly bankrupt Arizona Downs race track. In fact, Arizona Downs in central Yavapai County is destined to become the second largest horseracing destination in Arizona.

Ann McGovern, general manager for Arizona Downs, says that during the past five months, experienced racetrack personnel have converted the run-down horseracing complex into “… one of the finest tracks in the Southwest.”

It has been almost 10 years since horses last galloped the one-mile, 80-foot-wide oval located just a few miles east of Prescott Valley on Highway 89 A. The racetrack, formerly known as Yavapai Downs, was

bought for $3.22 million out of bankruptcy court by J & J Equine Enterprises, LLC. Owners are Phoenix-based JACOR partners (and brothers) Tom, Dave, and Mike Auther and partners Joe Jackson and racing executive Corey Johnsen.

The biggest track is Turf Paradise in Phoenix, but it has races only during the fall and winter season, when desert temperatures are more moderate and not threatening to horses.

McGovern said it cost from $7 million to $10 million to put Arizona Downs back into operation.

She described the track as having excellent facilities for everyone. McGovern said it was an exceptionally safe track, with more than 1,000

sralls for owners and trainers and their horses. “We have unlimited parking. And with 90 acres of land, we have a lot of room for future growth.”

Current plans are to have horse races regularly from Memorial Day through September.

Some races will be for quarter horses. Others are for thoroughbreds. Thoroughbred races are measured in furlongs. (Note: Eight furlongs equal one mile).

McGovern said most races in the Southwest and West are for quarter horses and are run in yards.

McGovern said the multi-story grandstand, painted in muted earth tones had been reroofed and completely rehabilitated. “We can

Polls Show Prescott Among Top Performing Small Cities

Once again, Prescott is in the national spotlight.The prestigious Millken Institute ranked Prescott as the “…Number 26—Best Performing Small Cities in the U.S.” for 2017-2018. More than 200 small communities nationally were evaluated.

That is a jump of seven spots up from the 2016 ranking of No. 33. That’s not all.

A second survey conducted by travel blog Expedia Viewfinder named Prescott as “…one of 19 Cities That You Must See in 2019.”

In a press statements issued by the City, Prescott Mayor Greg Mengarelli expressed pleasure about each rating.

“We are very pleased with this Millken ranking and the fact that Prescott is climbing on the list every year.” He said he thought a strong housing market, increasing health care and light manufacturing were key factors.

Also mentioned were more job opportunities. High tech industries were additionally cited as positive factors, especially in cyber security, aviation and aerospace. The four higher education institutions in the greater community—Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, Northern Arizona University-Yavapai, Prescott College and Yavapai College— were considered influences.

Prescott was the top city in Arizona to make the “best performing cities” list. Others were Lake Havasu City-Kingman —#

PIONEER

50 Years Later—Footsteps and Tire Tracks Still on the Moon

Few remember 50 years ago— June 20, 1969—when Apollo 11 astronaut Neil Armstrong stepped on the moon and uttered those now famous words, “One small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”

Even fewer are aware that every astronaut who went to the moon trained in Flagstaff –and occasionally, in Yavapai County.

Very few know that the man who built the prototype for the ultimate “Moon Buggy” which astronauts drove is a native Arizonan born in Yavapai County. He is Bill Tinnin.

Tinnin, now in his '80s, retired with his wife Pam in Prescott Valley. He had a decades-long distinguished career with the United States Geological Survey (USGS) in Flagstaff. He smiles, “That was one helluva job, something I’ll never forget as long as I live.”

Born in Jerome, he graduated from Flagstaff High School.

A U.S. Air Force veteran, he later worked for the Navajo Army Depot before joining USGS.

About 63 years ago, Tinnin and his colleagues were asked if they could build a Lunar Roving Vehicle (LRV) to be used by astronauts. He says they responded, “Sure, why not.”

He was then a mechanic at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) office in Flagstaff. He was one of 411,000 people across the nation working for NASA and its contractors to make moon exploration possible.

Granted, the moon buggy is only a small piece of the now world-famous Project Apollo that put the first man on the moon. But building it posed challenges never experienced before. The challenges began when then-President John F. Kennedy told Congress in May 1960, that the U.S. should commit itself to “…landing a man on the moon and returning him

safely to Earth.”

Tinnin didn’t realize then that he was part of a hardcore team of scientists, geologists, astrophysicists and “in the trenches” staff at the Flagstaff USGS. They collaborated and cooperated with National Aeronautics and Space

Administration (NASA) personnel. That started the Apollo missions, which lasted from 1960 to 1973—“the pride of space exploration.”

Tinnin now praises the late

Continued on page 104...

Prescott Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting Highlights Year’s Activities and Growth

Several hundred people attending the annual meeting of the Prescott Chamber of Commerce (PCC) heard Prescott Mayor Greg Mengarelli praise the local business community for its ongoing support of economic growth, increased employment and new businesses.

The noon luncheon at the Prescott Resort on Jan. 19 also saw the welcoming of the new chair, Suzanne Springer of True Value Hardware; and the step-

ping down of Margo Christiansen of Ponderosa Hotel Management as the outgoing chair.

Master of Ceremonies Sanford Cohen, from “Everybody’s Hometown Radio Group” emphasized the recently adopted new vision and mission statements for PCC, noting the Focus upon “...the Chamber’s being the premier advocate for business, economic development and

on page

The ROX Interview

Making A Difference

A

PASSION

FOR PAM

Interview by Ray Newton

PRESCOTT LIVING: I’m delighted to be interviewing the husband and wife team of Pamela Jones and David Hess, both 17-year residents of Prescott. Pam, let’s start with you. You’re a native of … ?

PAMELA JONES: I was born in California. My family moved when I was 3 months old. My dad worked with the Air Force. I lived in multiple states until my parents settled in Florida. I graduated high school there. I then began working in health-care in Florida and became CEO of a large private practice cardiovascular specialty group in Jacksonville.

I started as a receptionist for a cardiologist and earned my degrees while I was working fulltime. I started at the local community college, then transferred to Jacksonville University where I earned my BA in business. Later I went to Duke and got my MBA in healthcare management.

In 1992, I was still working at the cardiovascular clinic when a healthcare consultant urged me to continue my career by going into healthcare consulting. So, I started my own company, Tyger Healthcare Inc, where I am the president and CEO.

PRESCOTT LIVING: David, tell me about your childhood and early years. You were born in … ?

DAVID HESS: Atlanta. When I was 3, we moved to a little town called Carrollton, Georgia.

PRESCOTT LIVING: You got a degree at the University of Florida. Why not Georgia?

DAVID HESS: I applied to the University of Georgia because everybody at my high school did. But my brother was in school at the University of Florida, so I also applied at Florida. I actually went down and visited him and liked the campus. Even so, I want-

JONES AND DAVID HESS

From the day they arrived in Prescott in May 2002, Pam Jones and David Hess have been influential in the greater Prescott community. Coming here as they did —from successful careers in health care and cardiology — they set out to be involved in the community.

Almost immediately, they were contributing personally, culturally, socially, politically. It didn’t hurt that Pam had 25 years of executive experience in finding innovative solutions for hospitals, health-care clinics and other medically related organizations. David was a nationally recognized physician, spearheading the development of outpatient cardiology procedures and cardiac imaging techniques.

Pam and David are forthright in saying their “passion” has always been to make a positive difference in whichever community they lived.

David is the son of a Holocaust survivor. His father Jacob escaped from Nazi Germany to the United States in 1937. Jacob became a U.S. Army veteran, having served in the Pacific. He and the Hess family settled in Atlanta, where David was born. They later moved to rural Georgia, where David grew up before going on to become a successful physician and medical administrator. He is praised by those who know him as “… a thoughtful, analytical man, who chooses his words carefully.”

Pam is a native Californian. Because her father was in the military, she grew up in several states — Texas, Oklahoma, Florida among them — before beginning a career in health care. The always smiling Pam is certain those frequent moves to new communities gave her valuable experiences in making new friends and adjusting to changing educational, social and cultural environments.

For the past two decades, Pam and David have dedicated their time and resources to philanthropy, especially in support of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. In 2003, they established the Jack and Anita Hess Faculty Seminar at the museum in honor of David’s parents. The purpose: to provide a weeklong specialized educational experience for university professors about varying aspects of the Holocaust. More than 350 faculty members from 310 universities have attended in the past 15 years. Those professors have instructed more than 80,000 students.

ed to go to the University of Georgia. But, first I was accepted by Florida.

So I called the University of Georgia and I said, “I’m waiting to see if I’m accepted.” And they said “Well, we’d love to have you but, we’re not taking any out-of-state students this year.” I said I’d never left the state of Georgia. I was born and raised here. They could not get that straightened out. We even

called our local legislator, and he called to say “The Hess family lives in Georgia.” So, as it happened, I went to the University of Florida by default.

PRESCOTT LIVING: What was your baccalaureate degree?

DAVID HESS: Chemistry.

PRESCOTT LIVING: And you did that in three years?

The ROX Interview (continued)

DAVID HESS: Yes, I graduated as the valedictorian.

PRESCOTT LIVING: Then you went to Duke and got your M.D. at age 23. You had to have been one of the youngest graduates ever from medical school.

DAVID HESS: I don’t know if I’m one of the youngest graduates ever from medical school. There are a lot of smart people that came through Duke.

PRESCOTT LIVING: Why Duke?

DAVID HESS: I interviewed at Harvard, Johns Hopkins, Duke and Vanderbilt. I didn’t like Harvard or the folks there. When I went to interview at Johns Hopkins, the interns in residence had their own dorm. It had bars on the windows because the neighborhood was so dangerous. I said I don’t think I want to go there. So I went to Duke. It’s a rural area, beautiful campus, great reputation.

PRESCOTT LIVING: Then you ended up at the University of California in San Francisco.

DAVID HESS: When I went to medical school, I did my internship and residency, a year of cardiology and research, all at Duke. The professors at Duke encouraged me to go somewhere else for my cardiology to experience a different style of medicine and different philosophy. At that time, the University of California was one of the top five rated.

PRESCOTT LIVING: By age 28 you were board certified in both Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Disease. You were the

youngest person to ever receive those certifications at that time. How did you end up teaching at the University of California?

DAVID HESS: I liked teaching, and I stayed for three years and taught. You find out fairly quickly in academic medicine that if you aren’t writing research grants and getting federally funded, they’re not actually interested in how good a teacher you are. Even though I was voted the best teacher three years running, they started cutting back and didn’t have a place for me. I started looking at private practices and took a position in Jacksonville, Florida.

PAMELA JONES: You came there because it was much smaller, and you wanted to grow the practice.

DAVID HESS: I wanted a challenge. I had a lot of opportunities from many established groups. I have an entrepreneurial streak in me. This was a small practice that had a lot of potential for growth. In a short period of time we grew to five offices and covered Northeast Florida. I was a managing partner of the group, and Pam was, of course, the CEO.

PRESCOTT LIVING: Where did you two meet?

PAMELA JONES: At the cardiology office. He was hired by the cardiologist I originally went to work for. We didn’t hit it off right away, did we?

DAVID HESS: (laughing) No, I tried to get rid of her twice.

PAMELA JONES: Yeah. Didn’t happen.

(laughs) We’ve been married …

DAVID HESS: (smiling) Twenty-five years. We got married in Las Vegas.

DAVID HESS: We did some innovative things while we were in Florida. We had contracts with large companies like Georgia Pacific. We would get the exclusive contract to do cardiology care for all their employees.

In Florida they had a prison hospital. The hospital got sued by a prisoner so the Legislature passed legislation that inmates in the state of Florida had to get the same quality of health care as any citizen. They put the cardiology care out for bid and we got it. We took care of all the prisoners in Florida who had cardiology problems.

Here’s a funny story: I was taking care of an accountant one time who was in prison for white collar crime. He had fairly significant heart disease, and we told him he needed heart surgery. But he was up for parole, so he was released before his surgery could be performed.

The next time I saw him, I asked, “What are you doing back in prison?”

He responded, “I couldn’t afford health care. I needed heart surgery, so I robbed a 7-Eleven.”

PRESCOTT LIVING: You were a pioneer in cardiac catheterization, correct?

DAVID HESS: Cardiac catheterization has been around since the late ‘40s. It really took off in the ‘60s, but one of the things we did was to realize it could be performed as an outpatient procedure. We were really the first group that did that in private practice. As a matter of fact, Medicare did not pay our medical group for more than a year because according to guidelines, it was a hospital inpatient procedure, not an outpatient procedure. This was back in 1984-1985.

Now, of course, catheterizations are routinely done as outpatients. We were actually in the forefront of making it happen.

PAMELA JONES: That’s how our cardiology firm got the prison contract. Before we got that contract, the prison hospital would send the prisoners to Gainesville to stay overnight in the hospital for a heart catheterization. This cost the prison system a lot of money as they had to pay for the guard time. The pay for the shift of guards for the overnight was the real cost. But the prisoners were sent to us for catheteriza-

tion and returned to the prison hospital the same day, which eliminated quite a bit of guard time, thereby saving money for the prison system.

DAVID HESS: The patients came to us in an ambulance. We did the procedure, they went back. It’s safe and it’s now routine. Angioplasties, stents, etc. are all outpatient procedures now.

PAMELA JONES: You were one of the first electrophysiologists in Florida.

DAVID HESS: Yes. The University of California had one of the first EP programs in the country and I was one of the first physicians trained in EP. Our group performed the first ablation procedure for an arrhythmia on a human. I was in charge of that procedure. It was me, Mel Scheinman, my mentor, Fred Morady, who went to University of Michigan to teach and has had an illustrious career, and Rolando Gonzalez, a Dr. from Chile who was in training. We did the very first one, April 6th, 1981 and I will never forget that day.

You’ve heard of a PET (positron emission tomography) scanner? We had the first outpatient PET scanner in America at our clinic in Florida. We were using it for cardiac work. We liked the technology because it saved costs and the technology eliminated unnecessary procedures.

PAMELA JONES: At that time, Medicare wouldn’t pay for outpatient PET scans at all.

DAVID HESS: We would do PET procedures for free in Medicare patients until Medicare did start paying.

PRESCOTT LIVING: Changing directions. You both have been acknowledged as influential and positive political leaders in the greater community. For instance, Pam, you chaired the Republican Women of Prescott organization, which now is considered the largest of its kind in the nation. How long were you president?

PAMELA JONES: Two years. I think it was 2012-13.

DAVID HESS: (Smiling) I like to brag that Pam is the one that got ‘em in that growth spurt.

PAMELA JONES: The organization hardly had any money at that time.

DAVID HESS: But, by the end of her second year, they had $40,000. Pam won’t toot her own horn, but I think she was the one to get them to think bigger.

PAMELA JONES: Sometimes I think it’s a lit-

tle too big now, but it’s a good group.

DAVID HESS: She loves politics. She breathes politics.

PAMELA JONES: I have a love-hate relationship with politics, depending on what’s going on. I really am a political junkie. I love working local politics.

DAVID HESS: One of the things we like to do is recruit younger people to get into politics.

PAMELA JONES: Like Judd Simmons, now the County Assessor, and Greg Mengarelli, the current City of Prescott mayor.

DAVID HESS: It’s time for that generation to be the leaders. We really like to do that. That’s the kind of behind the scenes strategy that I enjoy.

PRESCOTT LIVING: Pam, you were on the George W. Bush inauguration committee. How did that happen?

PAMELA JONES: Well, it’s kind of funny. They were looking for volunteers, and we then were living in the D.C. area. A friend and I volunteered. We worked in the mailroom. That might sound boring, but it was exciting because every piece of mail or package or anything had to come through the mailroom to be examined to be sure it was safe. I also worked as a volunteer in the East Wing of the White House. I met President Bush the first day. He was very, very nice. His dogs would always come into the office where I worked. If there was a special event, they would always invite the volunteers. But 9/11 happened. They didn’t want

any volunteers back in the White House for safety reasons. So David and I started thinking of moving.

PRESCOTT LIVING: You came here in 2002. You had been living in D.C. Why Prescott?

PAMELA JONES: We were married in Vegas in 1994 at the Graceland Wedding Chapel. An Elvis Impersonator gave me away. We were all in costume. David’s a romantic, so he wanted to get married in Paris — in a little town and have some of our friends. But I said, “No, I don’t want to do that. I want to get married in Vegas by an Elvis impersonator.” He thought I was kidding, but I wasn’t.

So we left D.C. and moved to Prescott after 9/11. We always liked to visit Las Vegas, but after 9/11, the Washington airport was closed for months. So, David got out a drafting compass and drew a circle with a 250mile radius around Vegas to see where we could live and be able to drive to Las Vegas.

DAVID HESS: So, we figured with a 250-mile radius, we can drive to Vegas whenever we want. We didn’t care if planes were flying or not.

PAMELA JONES: We knew we didn’t want to live in California. But up popped Northern Arizona. We came out here in February because we figured that’d probably be the worst weather. We visited Flagstaff, Sedona — and Prescott. When we came here, David saw the little downtown. It reminded continued on page 76...

CITY SPEAK RESIDENTS HELP PUT CITY ON SOLID FOOTING WHEN IT COMES TO WATER

by Greg Mengarelli, Mayor, City of Prescott

Thank you for helping to ensure Prescott is on the right track. Thank you for supporting managed and responsible growth.

Stunning natural beauty. Authentic western hospitality. Unbeatable quality of life. There are countless reasons we are proud to call Prescott home.

I believe that shared pride helped create the sound public policy and personal conservation efforts that will protect this spectacular place — and its critical natural resources — for years to come.

About a year ago, the city manager and I began a review of the city’s water portfolio in its totality. With a large infrastructure project on the horizon and an ongoing drought dominating state news, we wanted the latest data to serve as the foundation for important policy discussions.

We hired one of Arizona’s foremost water experts, Gary Woodard, to study our water demand, and his preliminary findings were presented to the City Council in February.

The bottom line is this: Prescott’s long-term water portfolio is in very good shape.

Yes, I know this is hard to believe given the steady stream of negative news coming out of Phoenix, so let me elaborate.

There are three very specific reasons Prescott’s water supply is on solid footing.

The first reason is you. Despite the city’s growth of roughly 2 percent per year, residents and businesses are using less water today than they were more than a decade ago. In fact, since 2004, we’ve added 4,000 new water users, but we’re using 1,300 fewer acre feet of water.

Households are smaller and include fewer children and teens, who use more water than adults. Appliances are more efficient — low-flow toilets and efficient dishwashers and washing machines are now the norm. And, landscaping is more environmentally friendly. These small changes make a big difference in the amount of water being used.

Second, the city’s reclamation and recharge efforts are working. Almost 80 percent of Prescott homes and businesses are on the city’s sewer system. The city’s wastewater is treated, recharged and returned to the aquifer.

Third, over the past two decades, the city council and staff prioritized critical infrastructure maintenance. Our water lines are constantly monitored, maintained and improved, and the results are clear.

Beneath our historic buildings lay some equally old infrastructure. However, through aggressive monitoring and maintenance, Prescott has less than a 6 percent loss rate (when water escapes from a leak or broken pipe), well under what is allowed by the state of Arizona.

If you’re still reading, you’re probably wondering what the catch is. Perhaps you’re trying to figure out what I’m really trying to say.

So here’s the punchline: Thank you!

Thank you for helping to ensure Prescott is on the right track. Thank you for supporting managed and responsible growth. Thank you for conserving water in your homes and businesses. Thank you for electing leaders who take seriously their responsibility to protect fiscal and natural resources. Thank you for sharing pride in this great city and helping to preserve it.

I look forward to the final water study, which will be presented to the Council in coming weeks. From there, we will continue to study ways to take what’s working and expand on those programs and policies.

After all, the Native American adage stands true — “water is life.” And Prescott is a perfect place to enjoy life.

As Mayor I wake up every day with thoughts and ideas about ways to help direct and lead Prescott Valley into the future.

IPRESCOTT VALLEY EMBRACES RELATIONS WITH SURROUNDING REGION

by Kell Palguta, Mayor, Prescott Valley

n the great community of Prescott Valley, residents are ready to take the next step from potential to execution when it comes to writing their own future. The time is right for Prescott Valley, which boasts the largest population in Yavapai County, to ensure local boundaries and partnerships are embraced as positives and not seen as obstacles.

The mantra for the region is: “Whatever is good for Prescott Valley is good for Prescott, and what is good for the Quad City communities is good for Prescott Valley.” We as a community should not be in competition with other communities but rather be united as a solid coalition with the sole goal of being the best the state of Arizona has to offer.

A Visitor’s Destination

Many will agree that Prescott Valley has great things to offer, including the area’s only 5,000-seat entertainment center recently re-named Findlay Toyota Center. As of Memorial Day, the newly transformed Arizona Downs will be the only place to find live horse racing in Northern Arizona. Many beautiful trails, including the challenging Glassford Hill Summit Trail, are visited by hikers and bicycle enthusiasts.

Visitors from many places travel to Prescott Valley, either as a destination or as a path to other area attractions and activities. I often hear from those visiting that they decided to venture off Highway 69, not realizing what the community had to offer. I hear from those same visitors that Prescott Valley has the friendliest and kindest people around and that it is a pure joy to go to the local shops and businesses and be greeted with a pleasant smile and cheerful hello.

It is this friendly attitude that makes people remember Prescott Valley, and it makes many want to

move to our area to be a part of this friendly culture.

Times are Changing

I moved to Prescott Valley in 1996 and I still remember that I was able to drive on Glassford Hill Road from Highway 89A to Highway 69 and not see a single house or business. Since then, times have certainly changed, and depending who you ask, they may say it is a positive change and others may say it is a negative change. Change and moving forward is important in one’s life, marriage, business and even as a town.

Prescott Valley as a community is challenged to make each day better than the previous day, and in order to do that we, as residents, must make the commitment to be the best we possibly can. This starts with our attitudes toward each visitor as well as each other. There is no place for negativity, and you should expect nothing less from your community and your local leaders.

Looking Ahead

I am often asked why I wanted to be Mayor of Prescott Valley. My response is always the same. I tell people it is the same reason I became a police officer — to make a difference in my community. As Mayor I wake up every day with thoughts and ideas about ways to help direct and lead Prescott Valley into the future. I do not look at how I can make Prescott Valley and the area better for tomorrow or next week. Rather, I want Prescott Valley to be self-sustaining and prosperous for generations to come.

I don’t want Prescott Valley to be the best town in Northern Arizona. I want it to be the best town in the Southwest.

I welcome anyone with thoughts, ideas and opinions of how Prescott Valley can reach the next level and ascend to greatness to reach out and share those ideas with me. Follow me on Facebook at Mayor Kell Palguta or email me direct at Kpalguta@pvaz.net.

Embry-Riddle’s Prescott Campus — Nestled a mile high in the mountains of central Arizona, Prescott’s 300 days of yearly sunshine and pristine air quality are ideal for flying. Offering countless outdoor adventures, Prescott hosts miles of interconnected hiking trails, scenic biking paths, and four beautiful lakes. Evoking the spirit of its history as a Wild West frontier town, Prescott is less than a day’s drive from Phoenix, the Grand Canyon, and Las Vegas. Together, Embry-Riddle and Prescott bring students endless opportunities for discovery both in and out of the classroom. Explore more! prescott.erau.edu |

Ron Drake Week Inspires Hundreds

by Margo Christensen, Ponderosa Hotel Management & Member of the Ron Drake Steering Committee

The Ron Drake Consulting Week in January was inspiring, and that’s a massive understatement. Most of us had no idea what to expect beyond a series of meetings over a three-day period plus one large “visioning” session.

Ron Drake, consultant, speaker and author of Flip this Town: Preservation Made Practical on Main Street USA plus a related national podcast, offers inspiration and energy to small towns across America.

Partnering together, the Prescott Chamber of Commerce, City of Prescott, Prescott Downtown Partnership and Arizona Public Service paid for Drake’s consulting fee, organized his travel and formed a steering committee to coordinate the logistics in planning the sessions.

Sessions held during the week included potential investors, real estate brokers, bankers, business owners, building owners, elected officials, City of Prescott staff, high school students and members of the Prescott Area Young Professionals. Surprisingly, many similar ideas and common themes for enhanc-

ing Prescott and the downtown area emerged from these divergent groups, including:

• connecting bike trails from downtown to the edge of town or beyond.

• more culinary options.

• more outdoor seating.

• using alleys, such as the Whiskey Row alley, creatively as pedestrian walkways or for events.

• a food hall or culinary hall.

• downtown loft living.

“The best way to bring life downtown is to bring lives downtown,” Ron explained, inspiring private sector investors and developers to align future projects with the desires of the community.

“We saw the community come together like never before, and through teamwork came up with our own creative ideas and solutions to enhance Prescott,” said Doug Reed and Chris Campbell, owners of Tour Prescott.

Expect exciting times for the community of Prescott as the steering committee and others work to bring some of these ideas to fruition.

A Renovation Loan Can Help You Create Your Dream Home

by Gayle M . McCarthy, Branch Manager, American Pacific Mortgage

Spring and summer are the perfect seasons for home improvement projects. All you need is time, imagination and money.

There are many ways for you to finance your project.

Whether your job is a light fixer-upper or a huge remodel, there are renovation home loans that may help. These programs can be used with a home purchase. A renovation home loan can help you buy a home that may

need some repairs and give you the resources to make that home truly yours. It allows you to finance the purchase plus the additional costs for repairs and improvements.

A renovation home loan can also be used to refinance and upgrade your current home. With increased housing prices, this may make more sense than selling and buying at a higher price.

American Pacific Mortgage offers a full line of renovation lending programs to fit projects

large and small. These include FHA 203K, Fannie Mae Homestyle and VA Renovation. Your trusted Mortgage Advisor will help you determine what program may fit your needs best. American Pacific Mortgage — Creating experiences that matter.

American Pacific Mortgage is always available to provide trusted answers to your mortgage questions. Call 928-350-8828 or visit apmprescott.com.

You Better Believe Little Things Count

by Sheri L . Heiney, ASBC, President & CEO, Prescott Chamber of Commerce

Satisfied customers return to purchase again. Returning customers combined with new customers creates business growth and long-term success. In a competitive, progressive society there are generally numerous products and services of essentially the same quality available on the market at any given time; therefore, it’s the little things that count in making

Economy • Local Business

the difference between a sale and nonsale and a returning customer or a one-time customer. Although a business can offer a superior product or service, all it takes is one small “something” to force a change to the competition. Owners, managers and employees not paying attention to detail send a message to customers and prospects that there are more important things in their business than customers and prospects. But wait … customers and prospects are important! They see and experience the little things in a business that are important to them as purchasers.

It’s All in the Details

A retail store might have messy displays, inattentive clerks and dirty restrooms. A service business might have an unfriendly receptionist answering the phone, sloppy technicians or delay appointments. A physician or dentist’s office might keep patients waiting for unreasonable amounts of time, not returning calls promptly or showing little respect for patients as individuals. A manufac-

turing business might care little about packaging, on-time deliveries or personal service. The list of little items many businesses overlook is endless.

Attention to detail starts at the top of a business and permeates down to every employee in the business. One individual alone paying attention to details is not enough.

Every employee, regardless of position, must have the same mindset when it comes to the little things that count as it pertains to customers. What might be important to one customer might be less important to another and vice versa. This means that attention to the little things in all facets of a business is important. You never know what is important to one customer — the one thing that might keep a customer, secure a new customer or push a customer to the competition.

Getting Ahead of the Competition

Successful businesses pay attention to every detail in the business. They constantly strive

for perfection in all areas and every aspect of the business whether internally or externally. They realize that attention to detail is not limited to employees, customers or facilities. It’s not limited to a sales event, end of quarter or peak-sales season. Attention to detail is 24/7. It is a never-ending quest to be better than the competition.

If you’re an owner, step into the shoes of your customers and see what they see. If you’re a manager, do the same. If you’re not a detail person, then get employees involved who are. Get opinions from outsiders. Talk to customers. Have a comment card or online contact form for customers to complete. Offer some type of incentive if they do.

The mission of the Prescott Chamber of Commerce is to provide leadership and resources to create a vibrant business environment for Prescott.

For more information about the chamber please visit prescott.org or call us at 928-445-2000 or 1-800-2667534 or stop by the Visitor Information Center at 117 W. Goodwin Street.

Never too Old to Learn

by Marnie Uhl, President/CEO, Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce

We are embarking on yet another era in the business industry and working to help provide and promote its success.

As I celebrate 13 years at the Prescott Valley Chamber and seven years prior with the Springerville-Eagar Chamber, I am amazed how this industry is still exciting, dynamic and challenging.

What started out as a part-time job has turned into a passion that burns within me to go above and beyond in providing exceptional leadership, positive programs and sustaining the attitude that the business community is the foundation for a community’s greatness. Business provides jobs, services and opportunities for economic growth as a contributor to the quality of life in a town or city.

Planning for the Future

I have always subscribed that to be the best in what I do, it is necessary

to seek out education, professional development and networking among peers and mentors.

Recently, I joined with many of my fellow Arizona Chamber executives and attended our annual Chamber Executive conference with the Western Association of Chamber Executives, an association of Chamber professionals from the 15 Western states. I have been attending the conference annually for many years, and each time I leave with an assortment of brilliant ideas and an optimistic approach for the coming year.

This comes from sitting in classes presented by experts in specific areas of focus, keynote presentations by leaders with a larger view and meeting with friends and colleagues in informal settings. As I was recognized for 20 years in the Chamber industry

Chamber; Robert Heidt, Glendale Chamber; Kathy Tilque, Gilbert Chamber; Marnie Uhl, Prescott Valley Chamber; Raoul Sada, Surprise Regional Chamber; Lisa Krueger, Lake Havasu Area Chamber; Sheri Heiney, Prescott Chamber

at this conference, I find that while I know so much, I do not know it all and value this time of learning.

Working Together

We are embarking on yet another era in the business industry and working to help provide and promote its success. We are taking a proactive stand in believing that our business community is solid, successful and invested, and the Chamber is the champion, convener and catalyst for supporting and ensuring that “The rising tide lifts all the boats.” And together we are strong!

I recommend anyone in business connect with their appropriate professional association. The education and connections are invaluable, no matter how long you have been in business. Exciting times are on the horizon!

Hire a Qualified Professional for Those Home Improvement Projects

Aby Joel T . Fornara, Attorney, Musgrove

Drutz Kack & Flack, PC

s the weather begins to warm up so, too, will the desire to begin various home improvement projects. If your particular home improvement project requires the skill of a professional, then you will want to make sure the person you are hiring to complete the job is actually a professional.

The Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC) is a governmental agency that regulates contractors and subcontractors. The ROC requires those intending to perform certain construction jobs to be licensed. The ROC’s licensing process not only helps ensure that an applicant is qualified to perform the scope of work authorized under a particular license, but also requires the applicant to take a business management course and undergo a criminal background check.

Hiring a contractor licensed by the ROC also ensures you will have recourse in the event something goes wrong.

The ROC provides an administrative procedure for pursuing a claim against a contractor. The process involves a complaint, an on-site inspection, an opportunity to cure by the contractor and, if necessary, a hearing before an administrative law judge.

The ROC’s complaint process is an alternative to the homeowner’s right to file a civil suit for damages or specific performance. Oftentimes an ROC complaint results in a quicker, more efficient resolution to a dispute.

In addition to providing its own procedure for resolving homeowner complaints, the ROC also requires licensed contractors to post a bond ranging from $4,250-$15,000 and either pay into the Recovery Fund or post an additional bond in the amount of $200,000. Both the license bond and the Recovery Fund are safeguards to ensure that homeowners can recover at least a portion of their financial damages as a result of the contractor’s failure.

Because the license bond and Recovery Fund are not always sufficient to compensate you for your losses, it is important to confirm that your contractor is also insured. The ROC does not require its licensed contractors to have a general liability policy so this is something you will want to find out directly from the contractor.

If you are considering hiring a contractor, or you are experiencing difficulties with a contractor you hired, our office can advise you of your rights and assist you in resolving any disputes at any stage along the way.

JOEL T. FORNARA FOCUSES HIS PRACTICE ON ADVISING LOCAL BUSINESSES AND REPRESENTING THEM IN THEIR TRANSACTIONAL AND LITIGATION NEEDS. MUSGROVE DRUTZ KACK & FLACK, PC IS A FULL-SERVICE LAW FIRM SERVING OUR COMMUNITY FOR MORE THAN 30 YEARS. FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FIRM, GO TO WWW.MDKFLAW.COM.

DISCLAIMER: The materials in this article are for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. You should contact your attorney to obtain legal advice with respect to any particular issue or problem. The opinions expressed in this article are the opinions of the individual author.

Spring Events in Prescott

Dancing for the Stars

An annual fundraising benefit for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Arizona where local celebrities dance with professional dancers and help raise money for the benefit of the children in our community.

April 13th • Matinee at 1pm & A VIP Evening Performance (Sold Out) Elks Theater • 117 E. Gurley St. www.dancingforthestars.net

Whiskey Off Road

A three-day fun filled event where bike racers to compete in 15, 30 & 50 mile races. Starting on Whiskey Row, more than 100 riders come to Prescott and celebrate all that is mountain biking, with booths around the Courthouse Plaza including a downtown music festival and beer garden.

April 26th – 28th 112 S. Montezuma St. www.epicrides.com

Whiskey Row Marathon

An Arizona tradition for 98 years, The Whiskey Row Marathon is one of the toughest races in the country with a 10K and 2 mile run/walk. Runners help raise funds for the local YMCA. May 4th • 112 S. Montezuma St. www.whiskeyrowmarathon.com

Safeguarding Your Retirement

by Ronald Stevenson and Barbara Clark Stevenson

Baby boomers are retiring at astonishing rates and are looking for ways to replace their steady paycheck. They are worried about the potential of Social Security diminishing and what might happen to their retirement if it does. At American Financial Security, we believe the No. 1 concern for most pre-retirees and retirees is outliving their money. It is important to safeguard your retirement so you do not have to worry about outliving your retirement income.

There are various ways we help our clients work toward safeguarding their retirement. First, we like to encourage clients to revisit their retirement plan. People who planned their retirement years ago think that what they decided on then is still applicable to their situation now. However, situations change, and we believe it is important to always check on your retirement plan to make sure it meets your current and/or new needs.

The next step is to determine what your daily income entails by first knowing how much you need and when you need it. A general rule of thumb is that a retiree will require 70 to 80 percent of their pre-retirement income to maintain their current lifestyle. Once you figure out what amount you will need and when, the next step would be to find beneficial investment strategies, options and tools to help you achieve your income goals.

There are a handful of ways to fill your need for income in retirement. Social Security is one of the better-known ways. Social Security is the foundation of income planning for anyone who is about to retire and can be a reliable source of income. Having a solid understanding of your

Social Security benefit can help safeguard your retirement by allowing you to make informed decisions that will allow you to maximize your benefit.

Another way we help clients is by sharing with them how they could benefit from a fixed-index annuity*. Fixed-index annuities are specifically designed to create income – either today or at some point in the future. When you place a lump sum into a fixed-index annuity, the plan can be custom designed to help provide you with the ongoing income you need, for as long as you need it. A fixed-index annuity may be an invaluable component of your retirement plan, helping you to safeguard your assets and your future. Is it very important to have a retirement plan addressing ways to have income for life in order to safeguard your retirement? Finding the most efficient and beneficial way to address this may impact your lifestyle, your asset accumulation, and your legacy planning after you retire.

*Annuities are designed to be longterm investments and frequently involve surrender charges. Early withdrawals may impact annuity cash values and death benefits. Taxes are payable upon withdrawal of funds. An additional 10% IRS penalty may apply to withdrawals prior to age 59 ½. Annuities are not guaranteed by FDIC or any other governmental agency and are not deposits or other obligations of, or guaranteed or endorsed by any bank or savings association. With fixed annuities, both the money you invest and the interest paid out are guaranteed by the claims-paying ability of the insurer. Investors should consider the investment objectives and expenses of a fixed index annuity carefully before investing.

Retirement Residency 101

by Parshalla Wood, Financial Consultant, Wedbush Securities

As you grow older, housing issues become an integral part of your retirement plans, and you may find yourself in a number of different scenarios. You could be living on a fixed income and want to get additional cash from your home. You could feel isolated in the big house you bought 30 years ago and want to move into something smaller. Perhaps your health isn’t what it used be, and you may need around-theclock care.

Each person has a different story and residential needs in retirement, making it important to prioritize determining as many of these factors as you can before you reach retirement age.

It’s important to remember that when determining your living situation, financial, emotional and physical considerations will drive your decisions, and careful planning may allow you to enrich the quality of your retirement years, enable you to get the health care and services you need, and allow you to live in a place where you feel most comfortable.

Should You Stay or Move?

If you are living on a fixed income, you may want to use the equity in your home to obtain additional cash through a reverse mortgage, which allows you to defer repayment until a later time. A home equity loan or second mortgage may also provide you with cash, but does not defer repayment. Renting your house may also provide you with additional cash flow and tax benefits. Or if you plan to leave your home to your family, you may be able to avoid estate taxes and continue using the home as your principal residence through a personal residence trust.

You should carefully consider your housing options before moving out as you may be able to take advantage of in-home healthcare services, household help or personal care assistance. However, if you do decide to move, you also have a number of choices.

Moving in with or near your children often seems like the ob-

vious choice, but be aware of your emotional and physical needs before taking over the spare room in your child’s house. If you need independence but don’t want to buy another house, consider an independent living community or a retirement community, where you can rent or own a condominium or townhouse. If you are faced with physical or medical limitations, assisted-living options may be your best bet. Typical assisted-living arrangements provide you with a room or apartment, housekeeping services, meals, transportation and some nursing services.

Continuing Care Options

Continuing care retirement communities (CCRC) are an increasingly popular assisted-living arrangement for retirees. If you are currently in good health, a CCRC will agree to provide you with housing- and nursing-home care throughout your life. When seeking the CCRC right for you, compare entrance

fees, monthly fees, any additional insurance requirements, medical care provided and the financial condition of the facility. Be aware that a portion of your fees may be tax deductible as medical expenses. When you need more care, your last resort may be a quality nursing home.

While the prospect of entering a nursing home can be frightening, there are many good facilities that provide care and services not available elsewhere. Examine the quality and the cost of the medical care, look at the appearance of the facility and grounds, find out about safety and security, ask about recreational activities and staff-to-resident ratios, etc.

The bottom line is, while no one can predict the future or potential health concerns that may arise in later years, the earlier you begin planning, the more equipped you’ll be to make an informed decision about your living situation when the time comes.

Olsen’s for Healthy Animals: At 40, good enough, STILL just isn't!

by Steve Sischka, Owner, Olsen’s For Healthy Animals

What started out in Chino Valley in 1979 as a dream of Mike and Sherrill Olsen and Mike’s father John has become much, much more over the past 40 years!

Back then, their objective was to just survive as a tiny Purina feed store called Olsen’s Chino Valley Grain, with a 1940s-era feed mill and one lone helper. Today, Olsen’s has five stores in North Central Arizona and 85 enthusiastic, engaged employees. What a difference a few years makes. With the addition very early on of owners Steve and Kathy (Olsen) Sischka and Dan and Barb Olsen, Olsen’s was ready to take on the future.

That future included expansion into Prescott (’80), Dewey (’82), Flagstaff (’97), and Clarkdale (’02) as Northern Arizona grew. With area growth came large competition, but Olsen’s continued to thrive because of its ties to the local communities it served.

Throughout its history, Olsen’s has been committed to helping its community partners be successful and continues to

invest money, time and talent to that end. Olsen’s store managers live in the communities they serve and are totally committed to thinking local, speaking local and caring local.

Olsen’s has always been everything animal and pet and as rural animal and pet owners became more sophisticated over the last 40 years, Olsen’s has been there every step of the way. The one thing that hasn’t changed is their commitment to customer service. They want customers to know what true rural American customer hospitality is all about. Their trademarked motto is: “Good Enough, Just Isn’t.”

That’s a tough standard to live up to, but Olsen’s strives to reach it every day.

Looking back on 40 years, Olsen’s added the Arizona Equifest, expanded and modernized their existing stores, implemented a management structure independent of their initial ownership and re-branded all with the intent of making sure that Olsen’s will always be there when their customers need them.

Mike, Sherrill, Steve, Kathy and Dan continue to contribute to the vision of a bright Olsen’s future and remain involved as the board of directors of Olsen’s Grain, Inc., participating on a daily basis as needed.

They are community ambassadors who spread the good word about the company through their community service and longtime community contacts.

Mike and Sherrill are deeply involved with the horse and livestock communities. Steve

is a longtime Rotarian with Prescott Frontier Rotary, the voice of Olsen’s on the radio, a Prescott City Councilman and on the board of trustees of Yavapai Regional Medical Center. Kathy is on the corporate board of Catholic Charities and on the board of the Prescott Unified School District Education Foundation. Dan is into ministry with Mountain Top

Christian Fellowship, Hospice, YRMC Chaplains and on the boards of Every Man Arizona and Trinity Christian School. All in all, 40 has a good ring to it, for Olsen’s and the communities they serve.

Horses for Heroes: A program specifically designed for Veterans

by Mary Dillinger, Public Affairs Officer, NAVAHCS

Northern Arizona VA Health Care System (NAVAHCS) joins with equine therapy programs to create a safe environment for individuals to work with horses, build relationships and bond. Heroes and Horses is a nonprofit organization working with rescue horses and other equine animals. It challenges participants to explore how they are helping the horse as much as they are helped. The program assists Veterans with life skills, trust, communication, grief and loss, as well as moving through and moving on.

NAVAHCS has been working with Heroes and Horses since 2017, and nearly 100 Veterans have been enriched by this opportunity. The power of equine programs is particularly unique in enhancing mental health. The ranch brings the Veterans out of the typical therapy environment and into a more natural setting, which makes a big difference in how they respond. Some people work in individual sessions while others feel more comfortable in the group setting with other Veterans.

Horses as Healers

You may ask “why horses?” Believe it or not, horses are very helpful partners for learning, healing and connecting with others. Horses become silent therapists that model trust and safety. Veterans and first responders who have worked with horses in this program have gained assurance, self-awareness and self-acceptance. Horses assist with learning to communicate, reducing anxiety, decreasing isolation and gaining social skills.

Equine therapy programs are evidence-based treatment plans. Data collected from clients at Heroes and Horses shows a 49 percent decrease in depression and anxiety after the completion of the program.

One Veteran wrote: “I found your Heroes and Horses Equine Therapy, and it was a true blessing that lifted up my spirit in an indescribable way.”

This is just one avenue through which NAVAHCS connects with the community in support of the evidence-based therapy for healing. Currently, Veterans from the domiciliary participate in this course through recreation therapy. NAVAHCS hopes to develop and grow equine therapy for Veterans and staff at the facility.

The Veteran-Horse Connection

During the six-week program, NAVAHCS Veterans work with the horses, gain confidence and trust in each other and work toward goals. Each of the horses at the ranch has its own back story of neglect, abuse, abandonment and loss. The therapy is equally helpful for the Veteran and the horse. Both need to learn to depend on each other and find their purpose. It is a collaboration and healing process they experience together.

Usually at the beginning of the program, the Veteran and the horse choose each other. Sometimes it is because they have similar personalities and a connection. Other times it is just an instant bond. One Veteran said he felt as though they “got each other.”

Because the horses at the ranch have been through their own struggles, it usually means they have trouble adjusting to their new environment. They are antisocial and feel rejected by the herd. Many of the Veterans in the group said they felt exact the same way after returning home from combat.

Reaping the Benefits

Big, one of the horses, had a rough life. Brad, an Army Veteran hit it off right away with him. They both suffer from PTSD and trust issues. Brad said, “Horses don’t judge you, so you feel safe around them.”

Anne, an Air Force Veteran, said she was skeptical of the program but then she met Coors. This horse used to pull a tourist cart around the City of Prescott with his sister but became depressed and lost his will to live after losing her. Anne was instantly drawn to Coors. After just three weeks of working with him, Anne said she felt better about herself and her purpose in life. In turn, Coors got his drive back and was soon leading the herd.

Andrea Walker and Ann Balowski are the two amazing instructors at Heroes and Horses. They said they are so happy to be a part of a program working with Veterans and first responders. There is a covered area at the ranch where guests can share their experiences, eat lunch or just relax. The patio was built by Disabled American Veterans (DAV) with donated materials they provided, including picnic tables. Andrea and Ann said they are grateful for the support and donations from the community to help make this happen for Veterans.

“We learn something new each week,” Andrea said. “It is beneficial for us as well as for the guests.”

NAVAHCS is excited to have the chance to work with the community and develop partnerships while improving the lives of the Veterans we serve.

If you are interested in learning more about this wonderful program or other opportunities at Veterans Affairs, please call 928-717-7587 or visit prescott.va.gov or www.heroes.horse.

Now hiring clinical and support staff positions Caring for Northern Arizona Veterans in Prescott, Anthem, Cottonwood, Flagstaff, Kingman and Lake Havasu City

COMPASSIONATE HOMETOWN SERVICE

LOOKING TO FILL PHYSICIAN, PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT, NURSE PRACTITIONER, RN AND LPN POSITIONS.

Any questions, please contact Northern Arizona VA Health Care System (NAVAHCS) Human Resources at 928-445-4860 ext. 6015 or visit our website at www.prescott.va.gov or www.prescott.va.gov/careers/index.asp

• Comprehensive Obstetrical Care

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• Fertility Evaluation and Treatment

• Wellness/Annual Gynecological Exams

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• Bioidentical Hormone Pellets

• Women's Healthcare For All Ages

Thanks to advances in technology and the Internet, more and more people are running home-based businesses, either full-time or part-time.

But will a homeowner’s policy cover the risks of a home-based business? In nearly every case, the answer is no. The only exception to this might be if a homeowner’s policy has a special endorsement, such as to run a catering company from your home.

Yet fewer and fewer companies offer such endorsements. Additionally, some policies may give a very limited amount of coverage for business property, such as a computer.

Sixty percent of home-based businesses lack adequate business insurance, according to the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America.

One reason owners forgo insurance is confusion over what may be already covered by a homeowner’s or a renter’s policy. But most home-business owners have little or no coverage from their homeowner’s policy.

What’s more, if you file a homeowner’s (or renter’s) claim for losses sustained by a previously undisclosed home-based business, your insurer may refuse to cover it - or cancel your policy.

If you’re selling stuff online and nobody ever comes to your home for business purposes, you may think you don’t need coverage. But in reality you do. What if someone takes action based on information on your website, or someone is injured using a product or service you provide?

What if the FedEx man shows up to deliver a business package and slips on your doorstep? If it’s for your home-based business, your homeowner’s policy likely won’t cover your liability.

If you’re doing business at home, you’d be smart to have insurance. The amount of your sales doesn’t matter. The amount of the loss

you could face should something go wrong is what counts.

So how can you protect a home-based business? Start by insuring your business right away. You can choose from one or more of these three basic types of insur ance, depending on your business’s com plexity and type.

1. Rider to a homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy

The most inexpensive home-based busi ness insurance is an add-on or rider that expands a homeowner’s or renter’s policy to cover the company. The cost of such a rid er is minimal - perhaps $100 a year - but it generally provides about $2,500 of addition al coverage.

This type of insurance may be appropri ate for a one-person business without a lot of valuable equipment or many business-re lated visitors, and that is unlikely to suffer a major loss if unable to operate for a while as a result of fire or another disaster.

Such coverage may work, for example, for a graphic designer who works at home and does all of his business online, including de livering files. But it could leave a home-based business owner on the hook for costs such as a large medical bill for that injured FedEx guy.

2. In-home business policy

An in-home policy covers a broader spec trum of contingencies, including loss of crit ical documents or theft of funds being taken to the bank for deposit.

Does a Homeowner’s Policy Cover Your Home Business?

An in-home policy, issued by a home insurer or a specialty firm, usually is a plan against injury or theft covering as many as three employees. Rates typically run from $250 to $500 and the plans can cover as much as $10,000 in losses.

Most serious home-based business own-

Health • Happiness • Education

Prescott’s Advocate,

Ruffner Herren

Written with love by her daughter, Becky Ruffner, with the assistance of her granddaughter, Chelly

All these many projects, near and dear to her as they were, took a backseat to her family. As her own children became parents themselves, she was first to hold a new baby, cherish every photograph, and spend every waking minute with her grandchildren.

The City of Prescott lost a dearly beloved citizen, Elisabeth “Bette” Friedrich Ruffner, on March 13, 2019. So much of what people love about our wonderful city, Elisabeth organized, preserved, revitalized and created by sharing her vision of what could be and getting others involved. She cared not who was credited; she cared only that ‘things got done.’

A newlywed from Cincinnati in 1940, Elisabeth quickly found her place in Prescott. At the age of 20, with her husband away in the service,

and just a few pre-med courses completed, she found work as a medical assistant for Dr. Florence Yount, one of the few physicians left in the area during wartime. Dr. Yount put Elisabeth to work setting up a lab and treating all manner of minor ailments, from boils to burns to broken toes. Elisabeth had a toddler to care for, and, after the war ended, two more babies came along, completing the family with two girls and a boy. With the births of each of her children at the Prescott Community Hospital on Marina Street in the old Jefferson School, Elisabeth soon became engaged in the planning of a new hospital and served as the public relations chairman, with the groundbreaking taking place in 1954. She went on to start the hospital auxiliary and was recently honored during the 75th anniversary of what is now the Yavapai Regional Medical Center.

In the early 1950s, Elisabeth founded a preschool close to the family business in downtown Prescott, so she could help her husband, Lester “Budge” Ruffner, with the business side of the Ruffner Funeral Home. Libraries soon became important to Elisabeth, with three young children starting school, and being a voracious reader herself. Elisabeth was a frequent patron of the Carnegie Library during the 1950s and 1960s, usually with her children or the Girl Scout troop she led in tow. She became President of the Friends of the Prescott Public Library after the new library was built in 1974, and promoted summer reading programs and the county-wide bookmobile. A special reading room was dedicated in her honor just a few years ago. Today, the Prescott Public Library is enjoyed by some half-million visitors annually.

One of the first historic buildings Elisabeth fell in love with was the Carnegie Library, the first of its kind in Arizona, built in 1903 and funded by the citizens of the town, who raised funds to match those of the

famous philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. Elisabeth worked with the City of Prescott to get the building listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.

Elisabeth was bitten by the history bug again when Budge became chairman of the 1964 Prescott Centennial. There were events to organize, dignitaries to host, and the town’s 100year history to bring to life for the public in a variety of ways, including a mural of Prescott history featured in council chambers of the Prescott City Hall. An elegant centennial ball complete with period costumes took place at the Prescott Armory to complete the celebration.

Another Gurley Street gem known as the Bashford House was to be torn down to make way for a fast-food restaurant. Elisabeth incorporated the Yavapai Heritage Foundation in response to serve as a funding source and, with the help of the community, raised ample funds to purchase the house and have it moved to its present site at the Sharlot Hall Museum. The iconic photo of children and adults walking together down Gurley Street with the building loaded on a moving truck will not soon be forgotten.

Elisabeth did not limit her preservation work to downtown Prescott. She saw the value of historic preservation for cities and small towns throughout Arizona, serving as an advisor to the National Trust for Historic Preservation in Washington, DC. She also worked with many other local citizens to protect our irreplaceable viewsheds and open space and, with the national Rails to Trails movement, replaced railroad ties with public trail easements throughout Yavapai County. Today, Prescott celebrates 104 miles of accessible trails for outdoor enthusiasts from Arizona and around the country to enjoy year-round.

All these many projects, near and dear to her as they were, took a backseat to her family. As her own

Elisabeth Ruffner 1919-2019

children became parents themselves, she was first to hold a new baby, cherish every photograph, and spend every waking minute with her grandchildren. She is famous for her many typed letters, birthday and graduation cards, and, of late, her frequent emails and, yes, at least one text on her cellphone!

From California to Connecticut. somehow, she has kept the generations of grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren connected over the years.

Elisabeth helped start the national Ruffner Family Association and in 1993 co-hosted the first reunion of relatives in Prescott. She hoped to live to see the Ruffner Family Association return to Prescott in June. Instead, Ruffners from across the U.S. will gather in Prescott to learn about their ancestors dating back to the colonies in the 1700s, and to remember Elisabeth, a champion of keeping her family by marriage's history alive and our beautiful City of Prescott thriving. One of Elisabeth’s greatest gifts was how she always encouraged

others. As anyone who ever worked with her knows, it was very difficult to say no to Elisabeth. She believed strongly in civic engagement and inspired so many people statewide to share in the responsibility of citizenship and governing on local boards and city councils. When she met people who were new to Prescott, she would often get to know them and then introduce them to others in the community who shared similar interests or causes. In the 1970s, Elisabeth helped to establish Prescott Good Governance, a nonpartisan group designed to educate citizens about pressing issues and to find and support candidates to run and serve. Elisabeth mastered the art of civil discourse and encouraged folks to sit down face to face and do what is best for the greater good. She liked to say that no matter how tough the process was, a good outcome made the effort worthwhile.

Elisabeth Ruffner has left a great legacy for her family, Prescott, Yavapai County and Arizona. A dear friend recently commented that

just knowing Elisabeth made everyone the best version of themselves. And Prescott Mayor Pro Tem Billie Orr reflected, "Everything that people love about Prescott and Yavapai County was touched by Elisabeth Ruffner."

Elisabeth liked to say she was not really a pioneer, because she "came on the train." However, her pioneering vision and dedication to all things Prescott and Arizona has spanned just short of one hundred years. A pioneer indeed.

A Look at Flume Trail’s Vibrant History

by Kelly Tolbert, Recreation Services Coordinator, Prescott Parks and Recreation

Known to many, the remarkable Granite Dells offer numerous outdoor recreation opportunities. Often recognized for its stunning views, challenging mountain biking and hiking trails, as well as established climbing routes, the Dells’ illustrious granite boulders so characteristic to the area also chronicle many of Prescott’s historic treasures.

While there seems to be plenty of observable history preserved among the Dells, such as the Peavine National Recreation Trail and its past as a railroad corridor, there is also plenty of the area’s past not so obvious.

Many local trails honor the earlier period by paying tribute in name or designation — Constellation Trails or Centennial Trail, for instance. The Flume Trail, officially grouped among Flume Canyon, Watson Dam and Northshore Trails, exhibits characteristics of known history (hence the name, Flume), punctuated with unfamiliar yet spectacular details of the distant past.

Situated at the base of Watson Lake Dam, the area surrounding the Flume Trail is often lush with vegetation and wildlife likely benefitting from the rainy summer season or winter snowfall accumulation. Functioning as somewhat of an oasis in this desert chaparral climate, it is quite surprising to learn this very land served as one of the largest producing peach orchards in Arizona history.

Peach Orchard Past

This is a heartwarming story of John Bianconi, a Swiss immigrant boy bringing with him the dream of winning a fortune in a new country and ultimately finding success by working hard. Bianconi transformed the former Clough Orchard into an acclaimed peach orchard nestled in the heart of the Granite Dells. According to reports, Mr. Bianconi’s orchard grew to hold between 3,000 and 4,000 fruit-bearing trees stretching across some 40 acres of this 200-plus acre ranch.

To Mr. Alfred Clough’s credit, he worked diligently on the land that was eventually sold to Bianconi, but he struggled with managing irrigation. Despite his investments, Clough never made much money.

However, Bianconi devised systematic ways of diverting the water off the granite

boulders (flumes and ditches) and studied what crops were best suited for the local climate and altitude. Some of the shoulder crops that thrived included grapes, apricots, apples, plums, and of course, his award-winning peaches. After discovering his crop bounty had outgrown the residents of Prescott, Bianconi skillfully devised distribution methods, eventually selling his goods to larger distributors like Safeway in Phoenix.

Building a Legacy

Bianconi understood the necessity of sound infrastructure, having the foresight to construct (with the help of his neighborly friends) what is now referred to as old Highway 89. This road made owning early automobiles important, even critical, for timely distribution of Bianconi’s bountiful harvests.

Not one to remain content with less-than-desirable conditions, Bianconi overcame many challenges throughout his life, including suing the Chino Valley Irrigation District after the construction of Willow Lake Dam (Willow Creek Dam) to receive continuing water rights for his thriving orchard. After becoming an official American citizen, among many other successes, such as an appointment to the Yavapai County Fair Commission, Bianconi passed his legacy on to his children, who managed the property surrounding present day Point of Rocks until it was sold in 1941.

Getting There

Today visitors can access this area, the Flume and associated trails by parking in the gravel lot off Granite Dells Road and State Highway 89, north of the entrance to Watson

Lake Park. Look for a brown recreation sign on the right. Parking is complimentary and trail maps are provided in the map box at the trail head. Due to the technical nature and areas with low canopies along the trail, suggested users include hikers and mountain bicyclist. This area of the Granite Dells is also very popular for rock climbing.

Tips for Trail Users

Trail users are asked to remain courteous to the private-property owners in the area by keeping voices to a minimum. The total mileage for Flume Canyon, Watson Dam and Northshore Trails equals 2.4 miles one way and is approximately 600 feet of elevation gain. Alternatively, these trails can be accessed from Watson Lake near the north boat ramp (Northshore Trail) for a $3 parking fee. Depending on precipitation amounts, there can be water crossings, and it is a good idea to bring some insect repellant and trekking poles.

In addition to the trail maps available at trail heads, local retailers and businesses, the City of Prescott offers the map through the Avenza Map app. This can be found by going to your app store in your device, downloading the Avenza app and searching Prescott Trails and Recreation Map to download the current version of the trails map. A major benefit to this is your phone location system will identify its location on the app with a small blue dot, which is especially helpful if you are uncertain of your location.

For more information on the Flume Trail, other City-managed trails or the Avenza Map App, visit prescotttrails.com.

One Hundred Years and Counting

by Michael Longoria, Sales and Marketing Coordinator, Capital Canyon Club

In the Beginning … 1919 to 1939

As we celebrate our 100-year anniversary, we reminisce on the past and embrace the history that brought us to where we are today.

“There is no question that Prescott can boast one of the most attractive links in the Southwest” — Prescott Journal Miner Newspaper, June 1919. It all began in March 1919 when Leroy Anderson, a lawyer, family man and inventor purchased the southern 85 acres of the Hartson Ranch in Prescott, Arizona for $375. In doing so, he had every intention of constructing a golf and country club. Within two months, Anderson hired Jock McLaren, a golf professional from Scotland, to create a 9-hole golf course on the flatlands west of Indian Hill.

On Nov. 19, 1919, the historic Hassayampa Country Club (HCC) opened its doors for the very first time playing as a 2,820-yard, par 37, 9-hole course. Back in those days the greens and tee boxes, which can still be found today, were constructed using a sand/oil mixture and fairways were native land. Through the 1920s, HCC was very popular among the masses.

Mid & Late Century … 1939 to 1998

Like much of the United States,

HCC fell into difficult times during the Great Depression, and eventually cash ran dry. As fate may have it, in March 1939, a Chicago investor and inventor by the name of Harvey Cory (who just so happened to move to Prescott in hopes of curing his daughter’s asthma) purchased the 85 acres, as well as 160 acres of the surrounding land. Cory agreed to spend $3,000 annually for upkeep of the course, along with other capital improvements such as: a new clubhouse, enhanced greens and tees by using cottonseed in lieu of sand/ oil, the construction of Arizona’s first Olympic-sized swimming pool and much more.

During his tenure at HCC, Cory delivered on his promises. On April 3, 1939 ground was broken for a massive new clubhouse that included a large fireplace that could fit a 5-foot log and stone tables for seating. Cory also enhanced the men’s and ladies’ rooms and even reconstructed the club caddy shack and golf shop.

The Club Thrives Once Again

On May 7, 1939, the new clubhouse opened its doors. With the financial backing of Cory and world-famous

trick-shot artist Art Ashton,as head pro/club manager, HCC saw tremendous growth in the following months and soon became home to the Prescott City Championship. Seeing continued growth at the club, Cory announced the construction of Hassayampa’s signature “cottages” in July 1939. Later that month, the Olympic-sized pool, two tennis courts and a children’s play area were opened.

The 1940s and ’50s were stable decades for the club. Cory began construction on the cottages in 1940, and all 14 were completed by 1944. The cottages are still around to this day and have been placed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 1941, the HCC hosted Tex Ritter and Dorothy Fay Southworth for the first wedding on the club grounds.

Harvey Cory passed away from cancer in 1949. His grandson Jack Bartlett then became the club’s new owner. Nine years later in July 1958, Bartlett changed all tees, greens and fairways to bent grass, and once again HCC reopened. As the ’60s raved on, the club soon fell because of increased city-water costs. In December 1969, HCC closed for good. The course would remain closed for the next 30 years.

The

New

Millennia … 1998 to Present Day

In 1995, Bartlett sold the course and 245 acres to a developer who also purchased 181 additional acres, and immediate changes were implemented. Golf legend Tom Weiskopf led the remodeling of the course to construct an 18-hole, par 71, signature golf course. In 1997, Hassayampa Golf Club and its 30,000-square-foot clubhouse reopened once again. But Hassayampa Golf Club only saw life for a little over a decade and soon went bankrupt.

As a Phoenix rises from the ashes, in September 2014, former Hassayampa member Jerre Stead purchased the club and rebranded it to create Capital Canyon Club. The name is a testament to Prescott’s rich history. Capital – as Prescott was the first territorial capital of Arizona in 1864. Canyon – in

commemoration of the Grand Canyon State. Club – as this club is now and will forever be Prescott’s Premier Golf and Social Club.

Today you will find a modernized clubhouse that combines a fresh new look with historic lodge style architecture and native stone accents. With blue rye fairways, bent greens and tees, the revitalized course makes any day at Capital Canyon unforgettable.

Our social calendars include weekly bridge and mahjong play, along with additional events including: an annual wine festival, pub crawl, communityoutreach events and bimonthly theme nights including a prime rib night to die for. Members also enjoy a state-ofthe-art fitness center to stay in shape year-round.

As we celebrate our 100-year anniversary, we reminisce on the past and embrace the history that brought us to where we are today.

Capital Canyon Club 2060 Golf Club Lane Prescott, AZ

928-350-3150

Information provided by CCC member John Oas.

Thumb Butte Medical Center here to help with any springtime mishaps

It’s springtime and that usually means plenty of activity, warmer temperatures and lots of sunshine.

Here at Thumb Butte Medical Center, we want to help you enjoy this season while staying healthy and fit.

Stem Cell Therapy isn’t the future, it’s today

Of course, one of the best ways to enjoy spring is when you feel good and are able to move without pain and discomfort.

An exciting new treatment for a variety of medical conditions is stem cell therapy. You may have heard of it being used for joint pain, but it’s been found to be helpful for so much more:

• Hip, knee and shoulder pain

• Back injury

• Sports injuries

• COPD

• Kidney failure

• Heart disease

• Dementia

• Diabetes

• Lupus

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• MS

• Erectile dysfunction

• Liver disease

• Chronic fatigue

• Sleep disorder

• Neuropathy

Habib Torfi, Ph.D., one of the world’s premiere experts on stem cell regeneration, will join us at Thumb Butte Medical Center for a free educational seminar on Stem Cell Therapy and how it may help you.

IF YOU GO:

What: Stem Cell Therapy Seminar

When: Saturday, April 13

Time: 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Cost: Free

Please RSVP at 928-445-7085; a healthy lunch will be provided.

Preventing Falls

Just because the weather is warmer, doesn’t mean the risk of falling goes away for the elderly. Falls can mean broken bones, severe injuries and hospital admittance. At Thumb Butte Medical Center we use a Vestibular Autorotation Test (VAT), to help in preventing falls. The VAT tests for potential issues with the inner ear, which can affect balance and dizziness. After receiving this test, patients are taught how to hold their head and eyes to improve their balance and avoid falling.

“The majority of our patients are above 65 years old,” explained Dr. Hojat Askari. “Many of our patients experience numerous falls resulting in emergency visits or office visits. I believe that a VAT test will prevent falls and the risk of trauma, head injury and fractures of the ribs, hips and other bones.”

Sports Injuries

It’s a fabulous time for biking, hiking, pickle ball, baseball and more, but sports can lead to injuries. Don’t overdo when you start up your exercise regiment again, and stay hydrated. Wear a hat and shoes with good support.

Unfortunately, despite all precautions, injuries can still happen. We offer extended office hours and accept walk-in patients. We also have a foot and ankle surgeon on staff for consultations.

Finally, schools and teams need their players to get a sports physical. Call our Prescott office at 928445-7085, or in Prescott Valley call 928-775-9007 to schedule an appointment. For students without insurance, Dr. Askari offers sports physicals for just $30.

Asthma & Allergies

With budding trees, Cottonwood fluff and pollen from flowers, this is frequently the season for allergy flare-ups. Did you know it’s best to treat allergies before symptoms show up? If you think you’re likely to develop allergies, now is the time to proactively consult a physician. If your allergies have already kicked in, we offer allergy treatments.

Asthma can be a serious health condition sometimes made worse in the spring. Increased physical activity, temperature changes, pollen, fertilizers and even spring cleaning can trigger asthma episodes.

At Thumb Butte Medical Center, we are a state-of-the-art multi specialty clinic. Our mission is to treat patients like family.

We accept patients of any age. Walk-ins and new patients are always welcome.

Embry-Riddle Book Drive

Seeks Children’s and Young Adult Books

Jacqueline Kennedy once said, “There are many little ways to enlarge your child’s world-- Love of books is the best of all.”

Starting March 2, in honor of Read Across America Day, members of the National Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi (PKP) at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University will be sponsoring a book drive to benefit young readers. The books will be donated to the non-profit organization “Kids Need to Read” -- and the Tuba City Library on the Navajo Nation.

A 2017 book drive raised more than 5,000 books for the Central Mosul Library in Iraq after ISIS had destroyed the facility. Government and Library officials in Mosul issued a letter of thanks and gratitude to Embry-Rid-

dle and the Prescott community following that book drive.

“For the past three springs, our honor society students conducted book drives to benefit those who otherwise might not have access to quality educational materials,” said Dr. Anne Boettcher, Director of Honors Programs at Embry-Riddle. “This year, the students decided to emphasize books for children and young adults.”

Those wanting to donate new or slightly used books (please, no textbooks) can drop them off at collection bins located at Embry-Riddle’s Hazy Library or Jack L. Hunt Student Union. The book drive ends April 15.

“Our honors students believe that by providing books to underfunded schools, libraries and organizations, they can empow-

er young people in a culture of reading and knowledge,” added Boettcher. “Those same children will help build a prosperous and literate nation.”

WHAT: New or slightly used books for children and/or young adults (no textbooks, please)

WHEN: March 2 – April 15

WHERE: Hazy Library or Jack L. Hunt Student Union, ERAU Campus

For more information or to donate books: Dr. Anne Boettcher, Honors Program Director, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Prescott, Ariz.; (928) 777-3825; boettcha@erau.edu

About Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is the world’s largest, oldest and most comprehensive institution specializing in aviation, aerospace, engineering and related degree programs. A fully accredited university, Embry-Riddle is also a major research center, seeking solutions to real-world problems in partnership with the aerospace industry, other universities and government agencies. A nonprofit, independent institution, Embry-Riddle offers more than 100 associate’s, baccalaureate, master’s and Ph.D. degree programs in its colleges of Arts & Sciences, Aviation, Business, Engineering and Security & Intelligence. The university educates students at residential campuses in Daytona Beach, Fla., and Prescott, Ariz., through its Worldwide Campus with more than 135 locations in the United States, Europe and Asia, and through online programs. For more information, visit www.embryriddle.edu, follow us on Twitter (@EmbryRiddle) and facebook.com/EmbryRiddleUniversity, and find expert videos at YouTube.com/EmbryRiddleUniv.

Boots & Bling BBQ Benefiting Local Foster Kids

by Mona Stephens, Director of Programs and Marketing, Yavapai CASA for Kids Foundation

In Yavapai County, there are nearly 400 kids in foster care. These children experience trauma and are fighting against a plethora of horrific odds. These odds say they have a 3 percent chance of attending college and 20 percent will end up homeless aging out of foster care. These children can, however, overcome and excel with the right supports. Yavapai CASA for Kids Foundation provides that assistance with the help of CASAs, foster families, and partners in the Yavapai County community.

Imagine being ripped away from your parents at the age of 8 by strangers. You leave your home with all your belonging in a trash bag, never to return. This then repeats 13 more times over the next 6 years as you bounce from foster placement to foster placement. Every move robs you of your joy, self-esteem, sense of security, and self-worth until you forget what they are. Now, realize, this is the reality many of the 14,000 foster kids in Arizona face every day.

The Real Heroes

In the last few years, support for the Foundation has improved and is leading to the creation of a

new program for those aging out of foster care, as well as the creation of five new family visitation Rooms. Yavapai CASA for Kids knows the real heroes are those in this community who give so much to change a child’s life.

Time to Celebrate

It’s time to celebrate our recent accomplishments impact ing foster children, the donors who make this all possible, and this year’s achievements. Yavapai CASA for Kids is holding its 5th Annual Fundraising Event for Foster Children on May 31st. This year’s theme is Hometown with Heart Boots and Bling BBQ.

The event is from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Windmill House in Chino Valley. This venue has a breath-taking view and offers an indoor-outdoor experience. There will be a silent auction, a wine pull, live music by 5 in the Wheel, pho to booths, a cornhole tournament, a buffet-style BBQ, and guest speakers Anna Young and Dimon Sander (Miss Yavapai County).

Tickets are $75 per person or $525 for a table of 8. To find out more information or purchase tickets visit yavapaicasaforkids.org/annual-ga la/ or call 928 445 0800.

To purchase tickets visit yavapaicasaforkids.org/annual-gala/ or call 928 445 0800.

Friday, May 31, 2019

The Windmill House 1460 w road 4 north, chino valley

www.eventbrite.com

Farm to Fork in Yavapai County Promotes the Use of Locally Grown Produce

by Leslie Horton, Director of Yavapai County Community Health Services

YCCHS has developed a nationally recognized localapproved source guidance for certified kitchen managers who wish to purchase and use locally grown fruits, vegetables and tree nuts grown outside of a national farm certification program.

The Prescott area has a climate and environment conducive to growing a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. We also have a growing population of people

who value the importance of buying and eating locally grown foods. This inspired the Yavapai County Community Health Services (YCCHS) team to collaborate with retail food and agricultural stakeholders to further two public health objectives: promoting nutritious foods and preventing food-borne illness.

In addition, the team identified a need to ease the limitations of keeping fresh, locally grown foods from reaching restaurant kitchens and tables.

To meet these objectives, the YCCHS Environmental Health program team worked with local retail food and agricultural stakeholders to develop guidance for the procurement of locally grown produce. This guidance informs certified kitchen managers as to how they can satisfy the food code’s “approved source” requirement when receiving food grown without participation in a farm food safety certification program. The intent of this guidance is to promote the use of locally grown produce in certified kitchens across Yavapai County.

Approved source requires certified kitchens to ensure produce they procure was handled safely before delivery to protect the health

of consumers. The farms hoping to sell produce locally were required to participate in an intensive and costly third-party certification program, such as the USDA’s Good Handling Practices/Good Agricultural Practices (GHP/ GAP), which is designed for larger farms and generally unrealistic for our smaller, local farms.

Research was conducted on model programs and best practices, including GHP/GAP, and options were discussed with local retail food and agricultural stakeholders. Plans were piloted and approved through the Yavapai County Food Safety Industry Council and the Yavapai County Board of Health.

As a result, YCCHS has developed a nationally recognized local-approved source guidance for certified kitchen managers who wish to purchase and use locally grown fruits, vegetables and tree nuts grown outside of a national farm certification program.

The availability and use of locally grown fresh foods by local food retailers has increased substantially since the introduction of this local-approved source guidance, which we call Farm to Fork. The YCCHS team takes seriously our role in promoting the procurement of locally grown fresh fruits, vegetables and tree nuts while helping local farms and restaurants thrive.

We continue to prioritize food safety, while increasing the availability of nutritious foods through retail establishments, farmers markets, schools and community gardens. We are very excited about our work in this arena and the potential to further community wellness and the vitality of small farms in Yavapai County.

Northern Arizona Pain Institutes Introduces Ted Fulop, Licensed Acupuncturist to Treat Pain & Other Symptoms

by Robert J Brownsberger, M . D . , & Dorian Lange, PharmD, Northern Arizona Pain Institutes

Meet Northern Arizona Pain Institutes’ acupuncturist Tiberiu Fulop, LAC. His patients call him “Ted.”

Ted is a Diplomate of Acupuncture and licensed acupuncturist who moved to Prescott from Burridge, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago. He is originally from the western part of Romania (Transylvania).

Ted offers a multidimensional approach providing a unique framework of health services. He began his career as an army medic in Europe. He pursued multiple clinical certificates and logged thousands of hours honing his diagnostic skills. While continuing his work with respiratory patients, Ted became a Reiki Master Teacher of Shambalia

Multidimensional healing.

A patient can present any illness related to inflammation, energetic imbalances or want to boost their immune system. Ted has the resources to help a patient to get back on their journey to health and well-being.

Ted joined the Northern Arizona Pain Institutes’ team in December. He offers an alternative treatment for pain that originated in China thousands of years ago called acupuncture. Acupuncture involves needles, heat, pressure and other treatments applied to certain places on the skin. Chronic pain acupuncture has long been recognized as an effective treatment for chronic pain. A 2012 study reported on WebMD found acupuncture was better than either no acupunc-

ture or simulated acupuncture for the treatment of four chronic pain conditions:

• back and neck pain

• osteoarthritis (also known as “degenerative joint disease” or “wear and tear arthritis”)

• chronic headache

• shoulder pain

In the hands of a well-trained practitioner, acupuncture has much to offer beyond pain relief. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes the use of acupuncture in the treatment of a wide range of common conditions including:

• joints and muscle

• arthritis

• rheumatism

• tendonitis

• carpal tunnel

• joint pain & back pain

• muscular pain

• upper respiratory tract

• respiratory system

• acute bacillary dysentery

• headache and migraine

• mental and emotional Issues

Ted states, “I am proud to service the Prescott community and team with Northern Arizona Pain Institutes. By offering acupuncture to our treatments, we add another layer of healing services for those who suffer with chronic pain.”

To schedule an appointment or a free new patient evaluation with Ted Fulop, LAC, you may contact him at Acupuncture@NorthernArizonaPainInstitutes.com or 928-514-9992.

2012 Study, Source: https://www.webmd.com/painmanagement/features/acupuncture-pain-killer#1

The Whiskey Are You Tough Enough?

The Whiskey Row Marathon serves as the largest annual fundraiser for the James Family Prescott YMCA scholarships. These scholarships directly help families within our community.

Proceeds from this race go into the scholarship fund at the James Family Prescott YMCA to assist children and families in financial need to participate in child care, swimming lessons, youth sports and gymnastics classes. Without community participation and support for the WRM Races, local families in need may not have a chance to make sure that their children flourish, even in times of economic hardship.

The YMCA does not turn participants away for the inability to pay for programs and believes that all children have the equal right to learn water safety, Early Learning Objectives, character values and have opportunities for success in the intramural athletics. Participation in this race not only promotes your personal health, but also promotes the overall health of the Prescott Community.

The weekend starts with the 9th Annual Sports/Business Expo for participants and spectators. Find product samples, demonstrations, health and safety booths, race tips and official WRM merchandise for sale. Admission is free for registered participants and the general public.

Friday, May 3rd, 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the YMCA

Saturday, May 4th, 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at Courthouse Square

Volunteers Needed!

If you’re not running, consider volunteering. Contact the YMCA at 928-445-7221 for more information.

Row Marathon

programs in my community.

WHISKEY ROW MARATHON

Saturday, May 4, 2019 41st Anniversary

YRMC HealthConnect is your go-to, online source for healthy living and wellness information. Bookmark

Proudly Presented by

2019 Race

PROUDLY PRESENTED BY:

• Pep Boys

• Findlay Toyota of Prescott

• Marino's Mob Burgers

• Arizona Downs

• City of Prescott

• Prescott Periodontics

• Magic 99.1

• and more...

PACKET PICK-UP

LATE REGISTRATION

Friday, 3:00 p.m.- 8:00 p.m., YMCA Saturday, 5:00 a.m. - 7:30 a.m., Matt's Saloon

RACE TIMES:

• Marathon: 6:00 a.m.

• Marathon Early Start: 5:00 a.m.

• Half Marathon: 7:00 a.m.

• 10K: 7:20 a.m.

• 2 Mile Fun Run/Walk: 7:15 a.m.

For more information or to register online, visit: www.whiskeyrowmarathon.com

Race information compliments of www.whiskeyrowmarathon.com.

Get your *2019 WRM commemorative glass and specialty purple beer at Matt's Saloon *while supplies last.

Training Support provided by Mountain Milers

Training for a marathon is difficult... but with the right support, advice and running mates, it's also more fun, rewarding and enjoyable than you ever thought possible. Join Presott's own Marathon Milers for a little marathon training along the actual race course and learn to master the city's hills well before race day.

Get a piece of the “home court advantage” by training on the course. The Mountain Milers do every weekend up until May 4th. There is no fee to be part of the group. Aid stations are almost always set up for the weekend run.

Visit www.runprescott.com for more information on training with the Mountain Milers.

There’s No Place Like Home Gala Event

The Yavapai Humane Society invites you to join us for an evening of generosity at our There’s No Place Like Home Fundraising Auction Gala on Saturday, May 11 at the Event Spot in Prescott Valley.

Starting at 5 p.m., you can partake in exclusive wine tastings paired with hors d’oeuvres and sommelier demonstrations. You’ll then enjoy a chef-designed wine pairing dinner, followed by an exciting live auction, a Fund the Future fundraising appeal, leadership and philanthropy honors and additional exciting presentations conducted by our sommeliers.

The evening closes with an after party featuring a live band in conjunction with a wine and dessert pairing showcasing more sommelier offerings.

All the proceeds from the gala will be used to save the lives of homeless cats, dogs and horses in Yavapai County. Your support helps us carry forward the mission of the Yavapai Humane Society, which is to promote and protect the health, safety and welfare of compan-

ion animals. It is our commitment to ensure that every companion animal in our community has a great home and is well cared for all of its life.

There’s No Place Like Home Gala

• Pricing: $150 per guest, or invite your friends and colleagues and secure a table of 10 for $1,250.

• Complimentary valet parking will be provided.

Please visit yavapaihumane.org/gala or call Gina Angueira at 928-445-2666, ext. 118, for more information and to make your reservations.

Every employee, volunteer and board member, along with each and every cat, dog and horse at Yavapai Humane Society, thanks you for your support. We look forward to creating a night of hope with you. See you there!

THE PRESCOTT PIONEER

PRESCOTT • PRESCOTT VALLEY • CHINO VALLEY • DEWEY-HUMBOLDT

Phippen Art Museum Activities Have Increased Attendance

As part of its 35th anniversary, leaders and board members at the Phippen Museum of Western Art are increasing its diversified programs.

Edd Kellerman, the museum’s recently named Executive Director, said, “Our ever-increasing visibility is related to the increasing number of events we host and shows and exhibits we schedule.”

As a result, he said, hundreds more visitors are turning Phippen into a popular tourist destination in the greater Prescott area. Kellerman also mentioned the thousands who pack the Courthouse Square during the Annual Western Art Show and Sale every Memorial Day. This year it is scheduled May 25-27. Southwestern artists will "Meet and Greet” attendees, he said. Artists also will conduct “quick draw” competitions. Food and beverages will be available from vendors.

Kellerman, a Prescott native, has been the Phippen Museum Director for slightly more than five months. He previously had supervised marketing, community outreach, public relations and customer service. He said planning for late spring and

ARIZONA DOWNS...cont. from page 20

seat at least 1,000 fans in the bleachers,” McGovern explained. Inside the third floor is a 300-person contemporary dining room, fully equipped for full service meals as well as buffets. She suggested that enjoying eating a fine meal while looking at chaparral and sage landscape is, “…as good as it gets. We feature a Sunday brunch that guests tell me is exceptional. We have what we call a ‘traditional menu, but with a bit of a twist’.”

summer activities keeps fulltime and part-time staff and more than 80 volunteers quite busy.

Major Art Exhibit Now Open

More than 90 artworks, including pieces by notable Southwestern historic and modern artists in the Southwest, are now in a show called Desert Horizons.

Museum curator Jeannette Holverson said, “This exhibit shows the magnificent diversity and stunning panoramas we have in the Grand Canyon State.” She said the museum was fortunate in being able to exhibit paintings from the world-renowned Picerne Collection of Arizona Landmark Art. Kellerman is adamant that activities and programs such as the foregoing have resulted in major attendance increases. He attributes much of the museum’s increasing appeal to the multi-story facility expansion seven years ago. Functional space increased to 17,000 square feet. That, and improved ease of accessibility to the site at 4701 Hwy 89 on the north edge of Prescott, has visitorship approaching 13,000 persons annually.

A roundabout on Hwy 89 just

The dining room also has a full bar. It is adjacent to an event room which can accommodate up to another 150 persons.

McGovern tells visitors that Arizona Downs is “… a perfect location for a private party, a reception, a wedding—or any other occasion you can think of for a celebration.

Off-Track Betting (OTB) is possible. Arizona Downs is open daily at 9 a.m. for betting on tracks across the nation. OTB operations also have connections with Connoly’s Sport Grill and Bull Shooters Sports Bar and Grill in

100 yards due west of the Museum features a monumental bronze sculpture, “Cowboy in a Storm,” that George Phippen, the museum’s namesake, inspired. Phippen was the first President of Cowboy Artists of America. He lived in Skull Valley and produced more than 3,000 artworks. The museum honoring Phippen is now also the home for

Phoenix and with the Museum Club in Flagstaff and Gallagher’s Pub in Lake Havasu City.

McGovern said plans are to add more contracted OTB sites in the future. Such interests are controlled by the Arizona Racing Commission and other legal authorities.

McGovern attended West Virginia University but later moved to Tucson. She enrolled in the University of Arizona Race Track Industry program and has more than 30 years’ experience in the horse racing industry.

the Arizona Rancher and Cowboy Hall of Fame.

Museum hours are Thursday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Details about any shows, programs or activities are available from 928-778-1385 or at www. phippenartmuseum.org for more details.

She said staff already were receiving inquiries about parking and RV spaces from possible visitors from throughout the West and Southwest. Some are adjacent to the racetrack, and others are within a few miles.

McGovern said the appeal of horse racing is growing as an affordable, safe and family-friendly sport.

For further information, contact 928-227-1996 or visit arizonadowns.com

Spring Into Summer!

by Therese & Steve Stover,

Have you ever thought of running a

How about running a

These are a few things we can do to get you on your way for a fun spring and summer.

Spring has sprung, which means it’s time to do some “spring cleaning” for your home’s pipe and drainage systems. Here are a few quick and simple spring plumbing tips to protect your home against plumbing problems:

• Check faucets for drips or leaks. This includes your outside hose bibs. Make repairs to save water.

• Consider replacing a water heater more than 15 years old. (The first four numbers of

the serial number represent the month and year it was made.) Newer water heaters are more energy efficient; tankless water heaters operate on demand and are 96 percent efficient.

• Make sure toilets flush properly. If the handle must be held down for a thorough flush or jiggled to stop the water from running you may need to replace worn tank parts. They’re inexpensive and you’ll notice a lower water bill.

If you have any plumbing repairs that need to be made, or if you would like to upgrade your plumbing features for your home to get ready for a fabulous summer, give us a call at Arizona All Service Plumbing, LLC. 928-775-6550.

Beautiful but Deadly Plants for Pets

by Lauren Lovan, Grant & Communication Specialist, Yavapai Humane Society

Did you know there are houseplants that are not the best for your pet friend to be around? It’s easy to go to the store and pick out something that looks pretty for our indoor spaces, but we should be looking beyond the glorious colors and shapes.

Here are the top three plants that should not be in your home or within reach of your animal buddies.

Cyclamens

These plants have beautiful pink flowers that beckon you in, but they contain a deadly toxin called cyclamen, which, when ingested, will lead to vomiting, excessive salivation, diarrhea, seizures, heart complications and death. This plant is dangerous for dogs, cats and even fish.

Aloe Plants

Aloe vera is good for humans, as it heals scratches and itches, soothes sunburns, and reduces the redness in scars. Unfortunately, this helpful plant is not so great for our dogs and cats. The yellow sap found in the aloe plant is called aloin and when eaten, causes red urine, shaking, diarrhea and vomiting. If you wish to have this plant for its many beneficial uses, then take care to place it outdoors and out of reach of your animals.

Lilies

Lilies are extremely harmful to cats as they cause kidney failure and if not treated immediately death. Any part of the plant, no matter how much is consumed, will cause this reaction. These flowers are unique eye catchers, but they should not be in your home if

your furry friend is a meower.

The next time you’re out searching for an awesome houseplant and you’re not sure of the harmful elements it may contain, ask your vet or give Yavapai Humane Society a call at 928-445-2666, and you will find the information you need quickly. Here’s to keeping our pets safe and healthy by staying informed.

The ROX Interview (continued)

...continued from page 25

him of the little town where he grew up. He loved it right away, and, we actually bought a house on our first trip to Prescott.

DAVID HESS: We make decisions pretty quickly.

PRESCOTT LIVING: Do you still go to Vegas?

DAVID HESS: We used to go three or four times a year. The last two or three years, we’ve been so busy with projects. I doubt we go once a year.

PRESCOTT LIVING: What kind of entertainment do you like? Movies?

DAVID HESS: We really like the classics so say “North by Northwest,” those kind of movies.

PAMELA JONES: I like a lot of the old mystery movies.

DAVID HESS: Yeah, Hitchcock movies, like, “Rear Window.” If you really think about those movies, you’d be on the edge of your seat with no help from special effects.

PRESCOTT LIVING: You told me you like rock ‘n’ roll and classic cars. What to you is a classic car?

PAMELA JONES: My cousin had a ‘55 or ‘57 Chevy. I loved it. I’m the car nut.

DAVID HESS: In Pam’s exercise room downstairs we have the actual rear end of a ‘57 Chevy that’s been made into a sofa.

PAMELA JONES: We only have a two-car garage — unfortunately.

DAVID HESS: (grinning) I did that on purpose. Looking at these houses with a six-car garage, I’m thinking, “No, Pam could fill that.”

PAMELA JONES: I came real close one time to getting — I think it was — a ‘57 Corvette?

DAVID HESS: (chuckling) But she couldn’t reach the pedals.

PAMELA JONES: Yeah. The guy said, “I’ll put blocks on the pedals for you.”

I said, “I had blocks on my tricycle. I don’t want blocks on a classic car.”

PRESCOTT LIVING: Since you moved to Prescott, you’ve been involved in philanthropic and charitable groups, particularly the Jewish Community Foundation (JCF).

DAVID HESS: A lot of people are responsible for the Foundation. The JCF was founded in 1998 by Harold Greenberg, Bob Morris, Rabbi Billy Berkowitz and local attorney Mark Goodman. It’s primary purpose — to serve as a focal point for Jewish-planned giving and to promote continuity of the Jewish community through a broad spectrum of

An Anti-Semitic Memory

PRESCOTT LIVING: Did you ever encounter anti-Semitism?

PAMELA JONES: When you were a little kid, the Ku Klux Klan burned a cross on your yard.

DAVID HESS: I was the only Jew in the school. We were kind of lower middle class or upper lower class. Kids pretty much accepted me. But it was the parents. One time, a friend of mine said, “Why don’t you come with me to the Country Club for brunch on Sunday?” I say, “Oh, that’d be great.” I got there, we sat down and then within five minutes, somebody mentioned something and I was escorted out.

PAMELA JONES: Tell them about the Ku Klux Klan and your dad’s store.

DAVID HESS: I was about 7, maybe 10. My dad was in the dry goods business, which a lot of Jews owned in the South. If you would remember what those stores looked like in the ‘50s and ‘60s, they had these wooden counters. Underneath was where the extra stock was. But there was a drape on the back that would just cover up the extra stock. This was in Douglasville, Georgia, where my dad had a store. We had one in Carrollton, another in in Douglasville. It was a Saturday and my brother and I were in the store. The Ku Klux Klan had a rally right through town. My dad saw them coming into the store. He hid my brother and me underneath one of the counters, hiding us. He said, “Whatever you do, don’t come out. If I say run, run out the back.”

So, the KKK came in and there's a bunch of them. All we can see is their feet. They’ve got torches and they’re saying terrible things to my dad. “We’re gonna burn you out, Jew,” and all those kinds of things. My dad really doesn't say anything. They left and didn’t do anything. We’re little kids, and we crawled out and said, “Dad, why didn’t you beat them up?”

My dad was a little guy. He said, “Well, there were a lot of them.”

My brother asked, “Well, why didn’t you call the sheriff?”

My dad said, “I couldn’t.”

My brother and I said, “Why not?”

He told us, “The sheriff was one of them.”

We said, “They had on sheets. How could you tell?”

Dad said, “I sold most of those men their shoes.”

So, he knew one of them was the sheriff. Isn’t that something?

community initiatives and programs.

We’re a 501 (c) 3 organization with a great 14-member board of trustees. You may find it interesting that non-Jews can and have served on the board.

We also have great partners in the community like the Margaret T. Morris Foundation, Harold James Family Trust, Prescott Radiologists, Yavapai Regional Medical Center and Yavapaii College. The great thing about this community is that there are not a lot of egos walking around.

The Jewish Community Foundation has very few endowments. Most donors are giving money to do something important now. Frequently, when I talk with donors I say it’s nice to leave an endowment, but foundations can get fat and happy, not have to work hard if the endowments become

too large. I encourage people if they’re gonna leave something, leave it and spend it over the next 10 or 12 years.

This puts pressure on the foundation itself to continue to enhance philanthropy in the generations that come behind you. The money Pam and I will leave is going to be spent over a certain period of time, called a “spend-down.” I think one reason we’ve been able to accomplish a lot at JCF is that people instead of giving us a $100,000 endowment give us a $100,000 and say, “Do something good now. Spend it.”

I’m all for immediate “bang for buck”. People ask, “Why don’t you give scholarships at Embry Riddle or some other university?” I respond, “For $8,750, we can completely train a nurse for two years at Yavapai

continued on page 118...

Special Section:

by Staff Reports

Time for Fresh Ideas

Your home and garden can be a favorite refuge in the spring. Now is a great time to take a look around and plan your upcoming projects for spring and summer.

Remodeling and Adding Space

If you’re feeling a bit cramped in your space, you might want to think about remodeling or adding on extra room. For larger projects, you’ll definitely want to hire a contractor who is licensed with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors.

Attorney Jon Fornara explains in his article, “Hire a Qualified Professional for Those Home Improvement Projects,” how this can provide resources and support in the event that not all goes as well as hoped for.

Licensed contractors can also help guide you through the maze of necessary permits and inspections. Most projects you tackle will require

government permits, and if you’re not experienced in this area you can find yourself a bit overwhelmed.

It’s not a bad idea to call your local governmental building department in advance to find out what permits you need and the associated costs, which will help you with your budgeting.

Another advantage to hiring a licensed contractor is finding skilled workers. Right now, there is a building boom in Yavapai County, and skilled workers are in high demand. A good contractor will have a crew available and subcontractors lined up to do all the needed work so you don’t have to worry.

Finally, a licensed contractor will help keep your project on schedule. If you ever watched the movie, “The Money Pit,” you’ll remember how the home remodeling project kept getting delayed with a dismaying but cheerful “two weeks.”

When you sit down with your contractor, ask for a reasonable time estimate for the project completion. Do understand that if you make changes in the middle of the project, “I think I really want a window over there, please …” this can mean a delay in the timeline.

Need help finding a licensed contractor? Word of mouth can be great, but isn’t always as reliable as you might like. Give Sandy Griffis at Yavapai County Contractor’s Association a call and she can help you find the perfect partner for your project. She’s also a great resource for any questions you may have.

A New Home

When considering either upsizing or downsizing, it may end up that adding on or remodeling is not the best solution — you need to move. That’s when you want to have a friendly neighborhood Realtor® on your side. They can help walk you through the steps of finding a new home and selling your current home. They’ll have the most up-to-date information about what properties are on the market and suitable for your needs.

Additionally, real estate professionals can assist with identifying needed improvements before putting your home on the market. Sometimes simple repairs and changes can reap huge returns when it comes to selling your home. A checklist from your Real estate professional® on what is needed is a great tool and may provide a needed fresh perspective.

On the other hand, the real estate agent you select can also help you make a wise choice in purchasing your next home. He or she can see potential issues you might miss. Of course, you’ll want to have inspections done, and your real estate professional will be able to assist in scheduling those for you.

Expect the real estate market in Yavapai County to be pretty active well into fall, so the sooner you get started, the better.

A New Look

Perhaps you don’t need to remodel or move, maybe you just need to rearrange and freshen up your space. Need a little or a lot of direction

on the Homefront

and inspiration? An interior decorator might be the perfect solution. Interior decorators can work magic in just a day or go shopping with you for the complete makeover project. They’ll also help you make sure that whatever you do will add value to your home and comfort to your living area.

After you’re done with the new look, treat yourself to a professional house and carpet cleaning. Everything will feel fresh and sparkling. You deserve it.

Curb Appeal

No matter what you do, improving your curb appeal is one of the best dollar-for-dollar investments in your home and well-being. A beautiful yard can be a wonderful place to refresh and relax, and it can also increase

the value of your home by up to 20 percent, according to Bob Vila*.

Not so great on your gardening design skills? No worries, there are lots of resources for you to dig into. Landscapers can help you do everything from maintenance to design and beautifying.

Your yard can be beneficial as well as appealing. Like to cook? Set aside a section for an herb garden. Love salads? Grow your own — some assembly required, of course. Hate to bend over? Consider raised beds and potted plants on benches and risers.

The Prescott area is fortunate to have one of the best garden centers in the nation. Ken Lain and the staff at Watters Garden Center can help you find the perfect plants for your yard, porch and home. They know just how much shade, water and upkeep

each will need. They can help with choosing trees and shrubs; you just have to tell them how you want to use them (beauty, privacy, fragrance or all three). Watters even offers a tree planting service if you don’t want to do it yourself.

Do your plants look ill or diseased? Snap a photo and take it in to the friendly folks at Watters — it’s likely they can identify the issue and the solution.

Finally, Watters is a prolific provider of information specific to mountain gardening with weekly columns, garden classes, podcasts and handouts. After all, your garden doesn’t have to be just your project, it can also be your haven.

*https://www.bobvila.com/articles/347-landscaping-a-good-investment

No matter what you do, improving your curb appeal is one of the best dollarfor-dollar investments in your home and wellbeing.

Readers Reveal

Congrats to Amanda Colmyer, the winner of the Family 4-Pack of tickets to the Arizona Renaissance Festival! The package includes tickets for two adults and two children (ages 5-12), plus VIP parking. Her name was randomly selected from all of the nearly 500 comments submitted! Thank you to everyone who participated!

In margins and moderation and with Norwex!

- Stephanie Baker

Get boxes and bags and then get everything out that hasn’t been used in a year and best bet is to donate the items. My junk is someone else’s treasure!

- Angela Dianne

Pull an all-nighter to get it done. For my room at least, anything else is going to be gradual lol

- Connor Candelaria

WINNER: “Wait till spring break when everyone has more time off.”

- Amanda Colmyer

I approach spring cleaning with fear and dread and would instantly walk away from it to go to Arizona Renaissance Festival!

- Diana Austin

Thou must first get rid of the children. Then mount your trusty vacuum steed, get your dust mop whip and let the games begin!

- Joey Fratus

I blast the Hamilton soundtrack and start throwing all of our junk into bags to take to the thrift store! Then I scrub everything down and light every candle I own so my house smells like bath and body works.

- Karissa Anderson

Wake everyone up with music and get them all set with the days chores list and we all pitch in and get the house clean.

- Rebecca Driggers

Open the fridge door and insert my favorite beverage, aka reward, then tackle the bathrooms, bedrooms, walls and windows. Retrieve reward. Ah, life is good.

- Lynn Rowley

One room at a time with the husband taking the kids away for the day!

- Michelle West

While everyone one is out of the house so I can choose what to get rid of, music not too loud but loud enough to hear throughout the house. Windows and doors open. And lots of trash bags!

- Falyssa Oskerson

I don’t I rather clean all winter then when spring get here play outside with the kids

- Kandi Tomlinson

Try to purge all the clothes that don’t fit from everyone’s closets. Toys that don’t get played with. Everything gets donated.

- Katrina Najarro

I usually try to get everyone to work on their own bedrooms and go from there!

- Tazia Parker

Its best to start with one room at a time.

- Wendy Gary

It’s nearly that time of year, how do you approach spring cleaning?

I start with the back yard, pool, weeds, as I work my way inside.. The kitchen, front room, then the dreaded bathrooms.. After all that I sit outside with a cold drink of choice and be proud of my accomplishments....

- Mark Terry

I usually procrastinate until it ends up being “late summer cleaning”.

- Angela Pritchard

Throw it all out and set the house on fire!

- Melissa Robertson Collin

Playing bagpipe music with the windows open and get ready for the next weekend to get to the renfest.

- David R. Briggs

I approach it with great caution! Huzzah!

- Matthew James

Spring cleaning? What’s that? We clean all year.

- Morgan Clayton

With Guns n Roses blasting!!!!

- Anjie Jernigan

I’d do some spring cleaning, but then I’d have to turn around and do it again next spring.

- Erica Peters

My family and I pick a weekend we can jam out and clean. Normally starts Saturday morning and ends Sunday afternoon .

- Bri Baca

Alone and one room at a time.

- Patsy Hunter

By procrastinating and pretending I’ll get it done next weekend!

- Dawn Addelson

I approach it with a shovel instead of a dustpan.

- Laura Cherry Giago

I go to the kids room and ask them what they want to donate and what they don’t play with anymore grab everything and donate it. Then after that clean the rest of the house room by room.

- Hernaldo Ruiz

We choose to skip the cleaning and spend our time as a family going visiting the realm, going to the movies or spending the day together.

- Bill Jarboe

Save it till next spring.

- Christine Hallman

I MOVE! No seriously, it’s a great way to sort through everything you own! I did it a year ago and got rid of tons of stuff!

- Amber Moore Johnson

I get so overwhelmed I stop what I’m doing and go on Facebook to uncover contests for free tickets on better things to go do like the Renaissance Festival!!

- Sara Trapp

Put music on to full volume and clean one room at a time. Finish by vacuuming!

- Lilyana Flores

I start with the worst room or the room I want to change most. I then purge everything I haven’t used or worn in months. I do enjoy a beer while cleaning and watch reality.

- Nicole Jobusch

Giving the kids bags to put their stuff in they no longer need and give everything to the kids in need.

- Desirae Razo

We don’t do spring cleaning, rather we declutter (donate toys and clothes) and clean as a family so that we have more quality time with the kids and to teach them responsibility.

- Tiffany Phillips

Special Section: Home & Garden

Shoutout to the volunteers

by Sandy Griffis, Executive Director, Yavapai County Contractors Association

The YCCA Future Builders Boot Camp, held January 7-25, 2019, with 27 young adults was not accomplished just because of YCCA’s efforts, but through the efforts of so many others. YCCA’s Boot Camp required the support and cooperation from so many fabulous community partners.

Here are my big hugs and big thanks to so many who had the desire to make a positive difference in 27 young wonderful lives known as Adrian, Bianca, Brian, Bryce, Cameron, Chase, Dason, David, Gabriel, Jamal, Jeffrey, Jordan P., Jordan T., Joseph, Juan, Kalvin, Karl, Killian, Logan, Matt, Mike, Mitchell, Nicholas, Paulina, Valdes, Walker and Zane.

United Way’s Annette Olson:

What a powerful most magnificent woman you are to believe in YCCA and trust us with making a difference by awarding YCCA a $15,000 grant to make a metamorphosis somehow, someway in our community. When we said “Yes” to the grant, we had no idea what we were going to do. However, a new concept and an out-of-the-box idea was developed; a three-week, 9 a.m.2 p.m., Monday-Friday Construction Boot Camp.

From the power of giving from the United Way to the loving, most wonderful humans in our community, who gave their patience, love, heart and soul, and their humor, we send a huge thank you. Your greater service

who showed future builders how it’s done

in helping others made a positive difference in the lives of these young adults.

To Greg our bus driver for three weeks: Your smile was beyond the best. Prescott Unified School District is lucky to have you behind the wheel of the big yellow bus! And the children lucky enough to ride your bus, they are indeed blessed. I loved the front-seat ride glide! How great it is that PUSD offers a bus for rent at a very reasonable rate with a driver. This was better than an Uber.

Deb Peterson of Coaching Clarity By Definition: We started the boot camp off with a life coach and your talk and

communication to these young adults was powerful. Your words and communication were extraordinary and displayed love and warmth that will affect their attitudes and life. So lucky you came and spoke with the “boot campers.”

To the magnificent group of Prescott Area Young Professionals: Ariana, Andrew, Colton, Cody, Miguel, Molly, Maria, Megan, Tyler, Zak and Wesley, you are all tremendous, and I really would like your bylaws changed to allow this baby boomer to be a part of the PAYP Organization. The way you spoke to these young adults and shared how failure in life is pretty normal and we have all been there and done

that, and it does not make one a failure in life. How important it is for everyone to have a “person” in their life, someone to talk with and bounce ideas off. Kudos and much love to our Prescott Area Young Professionals. Your willingness to help with the boot camp was overwhelming.

Our Women In Construction and Job Expectations Series: Was monumental. Kathy from Haley Construction, Cindy from 2-A-T Construction, Rachel from Chino Heating & Cooling, Kim from The Plumbing Store and Brenda from Yavapai Mechanical — these wonderful women in the industry shared what it is like to work in a man’s world, and they are holding their own to a “T.” Love these ladies and what they represent and bring to the industry. Allan and Jeff from Haley, Garth from Fann and Patrice from the City of Prescott, you made a difference in sharing what the workforce is like and what is expected of young adults when they go to work in any field or any service industry. Such nobility of purpose you all have, and I know your time spent with these young adults will improve their lives.

To Jim and Jimmy Johnson, Wyatt and Will Orr, Bill and William Gagnon, Mike and Brady Little and Chuck and Kurt Merritt: For sharing the father/ son experience of untiring devotion and love. It was an honor to be able to bring you to the boot camp and listen to your hearts so full of inspiration, passion and love of family.

Our field trips and classroom times were so exciting and full of great information. Chuck Merritt and his entire crew brought in more tools than I ever knew existed. These “boot campers” loved the tools! Brent from

Arizona Public Service gave a fantastic talk on APS. Jim Reed from HR Quality Homes you were great! Josh Lewis from Foxworth, I wanted to fill out an employment application after listening to you. Jon from Certa Pro, you and your team made painting sound outrageously exciting! Mike McCormick from Asphalt Paving & Supply, your field trip was beyond exciting. The hands-on tours were so respected by the young adults, and thank you for the opportunity to see your operations up close.

Keven Kullberg and Glen Copeland: Loved the foundation and soils sharing. You had their attention with what you do and how important your career is in the industry. You are performing a task that will never ever go away. It will become only more and more important. You both are great Wikipedia brains!

Tom Reilly of Renovations: You are a teacher of accomplishment with your blueprint reading and math skills. A pleasure and thank you for giving your time and expertise many times throughout the course of three weeks. Next boot camp I see more blueprint reading and math skills in your future.

The roofing classroom time was a hit thanks to Roger Barton of Badger Roofing and Greg Barstad of Granite Basin Roofing. The young adults loved the hands-on project you created for them, so much so, we could hardly get them back into class.

Matt Greenlee, Greenlee Designer Surfaces: Yahoo! We have a couple of young adults who want to learn the flooring/tile biz from you. You were a hit!

Wyatt, BJ and Dan from Earth Resources: There are no

words. Your untiring devotion and love of earth work and yellow metal and talk of family and respect for one another was held in high regard by these young adults. I cannot even begin to describe the sterling qualities you all possess.

Chris Welborn from Vincente Landscaping: Wow, you had these young adults at “Hi,” when you brought your entire team, equipment and talked the talk and thrill of landscaping. You and your employees are a symbol of great affection for a wonderful industry.

And then the marvelous crew from JT’s Septic. We love you guys. Richey you are terrific! JT’s Septic — to all of your

employees, your true and faithful outstanding service to this community just gleams.

Jim Crawford of Steel Erection and Maintenance and Pat Dugan from A Action Welding: I want you to know how YCCA greatly appreciated your participation, sharing the love of an industry that will never go away. The inspiration and admiration you have from your employees, and that you display to others, is an indication of devotion to education of our youth. I mentioned to Jim Crawford it would be thrilling to be a female steel erector. Jim took one look at my shoes and said, “Sandy, you need more boot and less heel.” Guess I will not be walking the steel anytime soon.

Special Section: Home & Garden

Field Trips from Elan Electric, (Jim & Jimmy Johnson) The Plumbing Store, (Bill, William and Kim Gagnon) Dorn Homes, (Rusty Weathersby, Chris Harrison) MI Windows, (Dan Bidwell) Premier Builders, (Ron Owsley) Gale Insulation, (Shane Burginger) Sun States Builders, (Colin Lovdahl) Chino Heating & Cooling, (Mike & Brady Little): Such great education, and thank you all for truly taking the lead and wanting to make a difference. Your time and passion for

The team spirit, hard work and loyalty to the industry that built America, and will continue to build America and its spirit, was displayed by each and every one of these companies and their employees.

the industry was so very evident. You all gave the best of yourself to these young adults.

Lesa and Dan of New Life

CPR: Words are inadequate to describe what you did for these young adults. Every one of the young adults was certified in CPR & First Aid. Hugs to you.

A special thanks to Scott Norton of Findlay Event Center and Chef Jim. You so spoiled these young adults with the setup and the array of lunches you provided. They watched the clock for lunch time!

All of our boot camp participants represent what is good, fine and admirable. Every person and company is a vital and effective force in our area. Thank you to all of you who have given your heart and love of the industry and life, and for that you have my boundless admiration and

love to Pluto and back!

The team spirit, hard work and loyalty to the industry that built America, and will continue to build America and its spirit, was displayed by each and every one of these companies and their employees. This was a total volunteer boot camp, and I

am indeed humbled and proud of all of you who worked so hard to make this boot camp a success. Your kindness and the warmth of your friendship will never be forgotten. It is great to know you and work with you in the most fabulous industry and community ever!

PROPERTY

PROPERTY FEATURES

PROPERTY FEATURES

PROPERTY FEATURES

PROPERTY FEATURES

• 38 Units - Ideal Unit Mix For This Submarket and Demographic

• Can Be Bought Either With Adjacent 38-Unit Apartment Complex or Separately

• Block/Frame/Stucco Construction

• Can Be Bought Either W 38-Unit Apartment Comple Separately

Can Be Bought Either With Adjacent 38-Unit Apartment Complex or Separately

• Can Be Bought Either With 38-Unit Apartment Comple Separately

• Majority Townhome-Style Floorplans

• Certain Plans, Architectural Renderings, Drawings, Approvals, Etc, Are Available to Buyer

• Low Density Site (9.84 Units/Acre)

• Certain Plans, Architectur Drawings, Approvals, Etc, to Buyer

• Walking Distance (0 7 miles) to Historic Downtown Area

• Approved Unit Mix Consists of (22) 2-Bedroom Units and (6) 3-Bedroom Units

• Additional Land Available For 28 Units (2.96 Acres); Fully Approved & Entitled

Certain Plans, Architectural Renderings, Drawings, Approvals, Etc, Are Available to Buyer Approved Unit Mix Consists of (22) 2-Bedroom Units and (6) 3-Bedroom Units

• Certain Plans, Architectur Drawings, Approvals, Etc, to Buyer

• Approved Unit Mix Consis 2-Bedroom Units and (6) Units

• Approved Parking For 76 Total Spaces, Including Garages

• Approved Unit Mix Consis 2-Bedroom Units and (6) Units

• Individually Metered Utilities

• Washer/Dryer

• Seller May Finance or JV For Qualified Buyer/Developer

• Approved Parking For 76 Including Garages

Approved Parking For 76 Total Spaces, Including Garages Seller May Finance or JV For Qualified Buyer/Developer

• Approved Parking For 76 Including Garages

• Parcel # 109-15-015B

• Seller May Finance or JV Buyer/Developer

• Seller May Finance or JV Buyer/Developer

• Parcel # 109-15-015B

Special Section: Home & Garden

A Message from the Raven’s Nest

by Blue Raven Landscape + Design

Prescott and the Quad Cities area are a special place to live. Whether you live in the pines or the grassy valleys, you have the opportunity to harness and capture the beauty of that specific location.

Having the ability to spend so much of the year outdoors is a blessing. Now that spring is here, the time is just right to begin the planning process to create that outdoor living space you, your family and friends can enjoy year-round.

Landscape planning can be overwhelming. Ideas may have been cultivated over years, or you recently moved to the area and are not quite sure how to properly design and execute your plan. A

complete landscape design can be a pivotal tool to bring your dreams and ideas to fruition.

Coming Up With a Plan

What does that planning process look like?

“The most exciting part of my job is meeting with clients for the first time, getting to know them, and discovering their dreams

for their outdoor living space. That is step one of the design process,” says Taleb Subh, coowner of Blue Raven Landscape + Design. “I encourage each of our clients to be just as involved as they want to be. You, as the homeowner, can help your licensed landscape contractor by sharing colors and compiling ideas from sites such as Houzz and Pinterest. I, along with our designer, Tina Woods, take the elements from the homeowner and incorporate them with our ideas and vision to create the ultimate landscape design plan.”

Taleb adds, “Sometimes our clients want a full design, and we will prioritize the total project into workable phases. The importance of having the master plan will help keep each phase organized and cohesive so the end product is a landscape that effortlessly flows.”

Designing Your Surroundings

Designing a landscape within the natural beauty of the Quad Cities area also holds a responsibility. There are many factors to consider when working on developing a property that some homeowners and contractors overlook. Drainage, fire safety, water conservation and wildlife are just a few.

•

•

“Taleb and I are incredibly passionate about landscape, form and function. Part of that passion is making sure each client not only has the ambiance and esthetic vision realized, but that their property functions well in all seasons. Firewise defensible space, proper irrigation and plant selection have to be addressed no matter what type of landscaping is being done,” says Jessica Subh, co-owner of Blue Raven Landscape + Design.

“Creating a sanctuary space for my clients — somewhere where they can let the stresses of everyday life melt away and reconnect — is the ultimate barometer of success for me,” Taleb says. “We strive to be a boutique-style landscape company that is client focused. Offering our expertise, always continuing to educate ourselves and our employees, is exciting and beyond rewarding!”

We invite you to learn more on how we can help transform your outdoor living space by visiting us at blueravenlandscape.com.

We also can be found at: Facebook: facebook.com/ BlueRavenLandscapeandDesign Instagram: @blueravenlandscapeaz Houzz: houzz.com/pro/brl86305 or feel free to email us at blueravenlandscape@gmail.com.

Your Own Personal Oasis

by Karla & Greg Biddle, Owners, Biddle’s Pool Spa Patio, LLC

Alluring pools, innovative spas, distinctive decks, sunrooms and a great selection of quality patio furnishings.

Biddle’s Pool.Spa.Patio is Northern Arizona’s one-stop location to create your own personal oasis. Whether you are looking for a custom pool, spa, relaxing patio and fireplace or a casual entertainment and barbecue island, Biddle’s is here to help you.

Biddle’s has been creating commercial and residential outdoor environments for over 45 years in Northern Arizona. Pools are available in custom shotcrete designs, as well as high quality fiberglass. A wide selection of

Sundance portable spas is on display in our showrooms and ready for immediate delivery.

Pool supplies and equipment are in stock for you after your installation, and our technical department offers full maintenance and repair services.

Our landscaping division has masterfully created commercial and residential works of art in some of Northern Arizona’s most prestigious areas. We provide excellent design services for all types of pools, spas, waterfalls and landscaping to create projects perfectly adapted to each customer’s individual taste and lifestyle. Sunrooms, awnings and shade structures are available to expand your indoors to the outdoors.

We pride ourselves on our gallery presentation of relaxing, comfortable casual furnishings for both inside and out. We showcase O.W. Lee, Woodard, Tropitone, NorthCape and others, as well as unique vintage teak pieces. Our custom barbecue/entertainment islands can be designed to your specifications, built off site and delivered ready to grill.

We are fully licensed, ROC License No.s 303162, 303163, bonded and insured and guarantee your satisfaction. Stop in and see us at either of our locations in Sedona or Prescott.

For more information contact us at 928-227-2960 in Prescott or 928202-4900 in Sedona, email info@ biddlespoolspapatio.com, or visit biddlespoolspapatio.com.

Buying a Home is a BIG Deal

by Cindi LaSalle-Shanks, GRI

The one critical skill needed by all real estate agents is the ability to listen closely to the needs of buyers and adjust accordingly in helping them find that perfect home...

Listing and selling residential real estate in the greater Prescott area is, and has been, my passion for many years. Working with and for buyers of all ages and lifestyles provides a great opportunity to experience the joy of making real estate dreams come true for so many people.

The one critical skill needed by all real estate agents is the ability to listen closely to the needs of buyers and adjust accordingly in helping them find that perfect home in the Prescott area, which includes Prescott Valley, Chino Valley and Dewey/ Humboldt, sometimes referred to as the Quad Cities.

Along with listening abilities, the agent must have a thorough working knowledge of the process.

It is important to insure all buyers prequalify before they begin looking for a home. By prequalifying ahead of time, the buyer will know what they can afford and the type of loan that will work best for them.

A conditional loan approval document provided by a lender must be presented to the sellers with the purchase contract signifying they can purchase a home. An experienced lender can prequalify a buyer for a certain price range and help avoid possible disappointments later when an offer is made on that perfect home. Many sources exist for home loans including banks, credit unions, mortgage companies and mortgage brokers.

So, what’s needed for a loan application?

The loan application requires personal and financial information. Requirements may vary, but a buyer must be prepared for the lender to request the following: names and addresses of employers for the last two years, addresses for all residences for the last two years, Social Security account numbers and driver’s licenses or other valid identifications. The lender may request two recent pay stubs showing year-to-date earnings; W-2s and federal tax returns for the last two years; and names, addresses and account numbers for checking and savings accounts on all loans, including real estate. The lender will mail out verification requests based on the data provided.

When the buyers find the home they want, they will work with their real estate agent to write a purchase contract. The purchase contract includes many documents including the actual purchase contract, buyers agency, buyers advisory, wire fraud alert, the prequalification document from the lender plus any addendums required by the broker of the real estate firm or that specifically address the property (homeowner association information, septic, well, etc.).

When the buyers and the sellers come to a final agreement on the terms of purchase, the real estate agent will arrange to have escrow opened and give the lender a copy of the purchase contract. Escrow and

title is completed by a neutral third party that handles all of the purchase paperwork, creating the documents needed to finalize the sale, disburse all of the funds and record the title of the property.

The purchase contract allows buyers a specific amount of time to have any and all home inspections performed on the property. This time period begins the day after contract acceptance. It is critical that any and all inspections be done prior to the end of the inspection period and the results of any repairs or other issues be addressed on the Buyers Inspection Notice and Sellers Response (BINSR) document and given to the listing agent.

If this timeline is missed, the buyer no longer has the right to ask for repairs or reject the property if items disapproved of cannot be corrected or changed. For example, these items could include the Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CCR’s) covering the property, floodplain issues or the property not being insurable.

The lender usually waits for notification that the inspections are complete before ordering the appraisal. This is just a brief introduction to the initial process of buying a home. There is more after the appraisal process, so if you would like additional information on the complete process regarding buying a home, give me a call at 928-533-1012. I am here for you!

What are your favorite current home design trends? Readers Reveal

WINNER: Flat stone top islands – open concept into living room.

– Daryl Weisser

Congrats to Daryl Weisser from Prescott Valley who is the winner of the Family 4-Pack of tickets to the Arizona Renaissance Festival! The package includes tickets for two adults and two children (ages 5-12), plus VIP parking. His name was randomly selected from all of the comments that were submitted. Thank you to everyone who participated!

• Modern farmhouse. It’s the way we went on our house.

– Ian Calvert

• Modern farmhouse. – Melissa Domon

• Tiny homes. – Carri Dilly

• I love a blend of design styles as it allows people to be more creative. I personal have a farm house and industrial blend in simple neutral tones. It should always be a decision of the heart when designing your home aesthetics.

– Kaycee Bowen

• Living well. – Anjie Jernigan

Answers received via Facebook. One contest winner was selected to receive Renaissance Fair tickets. For chances to win future prize offerings, visit us on Facebook at facebook.com/prescottlivingmagazine.

Spring is in the Air

by Catherine Robbins, Office Administrative Assistant, ZebraScapes LLC

Have you seen the zebra-striped trucks around town or the zebras out on Williamson Valley Road? They belong to Rodney and Denise Steidinger, the husband and wife team who own and operate ZebraScapes Landscaping & Services.

The Steidingers have called Prescott home for more than 12 years. Their family is active in our community though their church and its foster-care ministry, as well as volunteering their time and business services to local events and organizations. Both grew up on farms in Illinois, so

ranching and landscaping are labors of love for the Steidingers and their four beautiful daughters Trinity, Kiley, Haley and Ella.

Tips for Spring Yard Care

With spring approaching, the ZebraScapes team would like to share their top tips for spring yard care. Just as one’s home needs spring cleaning this time of year, landscaping and irrigation also require it. These seven simple tasks will help prepare your yard for the growing season. Cleanup of perennials begins by removing dead leaves and stalks. This also applies to orna-

mental grasses, which may not have been trimmed during the fall. This can be done with either scissors or pruners.

Trees and shrubs also benefit from the pruning of dead limbs and winter-kill on branches. Shrubs that bloom in spring, however, need to have their buds in place on last year’s growth to burst into action when the weather warms. If live wood is pruned, the flowers will be removed, so it’s best to prune these shrubs after blooming has ceased. Shrubs that bloom later in the year don’t need a head start, they bloom on new growth, so prune to your heart’s content.

As you tidy your yard, remove any cut or fallen branches, rake up debris, such as trimmings, leaves and twigs, and always sanitize all garden tools with rubbing alcohol or bleach.

Spring is an ideal time to fertilize. Most plants, including lawn, trees and shrubs will enjoy a feeding in the spring and reward you for the effort. There are a number of fertilizers available, so be sure to do some research. Select the right fertilizer for your needs and follow the application directions, as some chemicals will burn plants when used in excess.

When spring arrives and freezing temperatures wane, it’s time to begin watering your yard. During an irrigation startup, pipes should be checked for damage and/or cracking that may have resulted from winter frost. Damaged pipes can cause flooding

and overwatering. The Arizona Department of Water Resources estimates that 70 percent of residential water use is outdoors, especially during the summer. It is crucial to make sure irrigation timers are set correctly and systems function properly. Improved watering efficiency can save you time, water and money.

It’s always easier to tackle weeds before they rear their ugly heads. While landscape fabric and mulch or rocks can work well for weed prevention, applying a pre-emergent herbicide is also helpful, especially when applied twice a year, in early spring and just before the monsoon season. If weeds do emerge in spring, you can use a post-emergent herbicide; however, this tends to be less effective than treating the weeds before they surface. Garden pests are at their peak in late spring and early summer. Wild birds not only add music, beauty and color to a yard, some also serve as a natural form of pest and weed control. Designing a landscape that attracts birds can be a win-win for you and your feathered friends. This can be done with a water feature or small pond, birdbath, feeders, fruit trees and plants, and nectar-producing and seed-bearing plants.

We realize this is a lot of information to process. If you need assistance with spring cleaning your property, we can help. Give ZebraScapes Landscaping & Services a call at 928-830-4061, visit us on Facebook or log on to zebrascapes.com.

Planting for Perfect

An amazing truth: A single tomato plant can produce 50 pounds of fruit in a single season. Also, the cost of homegrown tomatoes beats supermarket prices, but more importantly, they taste so much better than their commercially grown cousins.

Sadly, recurring scares in commercial food safety generate serious reasons for us to cultivate our own vegetables. If you’re planning to grow your own tomatoes this year, I suggest you read through the essential, straightforward information that follows. It will get you off to a good start and result in a grand finale of exceptional produce.

It’s All About the Soil

Good soil conducive to healthy, productive vegetable plants must have good drainage and adequate moisture retention. Because vegetable plants need to breathe at the root level to grow plump sweet fruit, proper drainage is vital. Drainage is not an issue for tomatoes grown in containers and/or raised garden beds, which is why I suggest them to first-time tomato gardeners. When working

with containers and raised beds, it is essential to use good potting soil and necessary to know that not all soil mixes are equal.

At Watters Garden Center, there is only one choice and it’s Watters Organic Potting Soil. This is the same growers’ mix used to start all of Watters’ non-GMO vegetable-starter plants. If you have established vegetable beds, the soil must be turned with fresh mulch every spring, and the same holds true when preparing a new tomato patch. A 2- to 3-inch layer of Watters Premium Mulch turned into garden soil at one shovel’s depth is all that’s needed. I also incorporate the following four additives that practically guarantee a healthy bounty. By incorporating these additives along with the mulch into your garden soil, you’ll be impressed by how well your tomato plants produce.

Must-Have Soil Ingredients

• Calcium nitrate contains calcium and nitrogen, two essential nutrients tomatoes need to prevent blossom-end rot. When fruits are enlarging rapidly, as tomatoes do, sufficient amounts of calcium fail to reach the ends of the fruit, resulting in a deficiency of calcium. Calcium nitrate solves that problem.

• Bone meal adds an essential source of organic phosphorous that increases root formation. Healthy, thriving roots enable plants to produce a greater abundance of fruit.

• HuMic granular is a humic acid amendment for all vegetable gardens. It tickles the feet of new

plants so they will root deeply into garden soils. Keep in mind that robust roots equal bigger fruits.

• Watters 7-4-4 all natural plant food is a mixture of cottonseed meal, bird guano, iron and sulfur. It is the perfect food for local vegetable gardens. We named it All Purpose Plant Food because it really does work for all mountain gardening.

BONUS TIP: A tomato plant’s moisture must be regulated or tomatoes will form thick skins that often crack. Add one tablespoon of Aqua Boost Crystals per plant at the time of planting to retain moisture at root level for increased root mass.

Plant Varieties are Key

A critical step to great tomatoes is plant selection. In our climate and soil, I’ve had the best luck with tomato vines that produce small- to medium-size fruits. Any varieties of tomatoes that produce small fruits do well locally; they ripen early and produce heavy crops. They’re the little ones you can’t resist popping into your mouth while picking them. I’m talking about Cherry, Sweet 100 and Yellow Pear tomatoes. All are dependably delicious.

Vines that produce medium-sized fruits also produce well in local gardens. My favorites are Early Girl for salsa, and Champion, Patio and Celebrity for good slicing tomatoes. Many other mid-size producers also do well. The only big tomato recommendation I can make is Ball’s Beefsteak.

Oops! Almost forgot to mention Watters’ ever-increasing selection of heirloom varieties, including Brandywine, Black Krim, Amish Paste, Cherokee Purple and Gold Medal.

Plant Selection & Care

It’s important to know that tomatoes are one of those rare plants that root from the vine when planted deeply

Tomatoes

by Lisa Watters-Lain, Arizona’s Garden Gal

in the soil. I like to buy a tall plant that has beautiful foliage at the top and pick off all the lower stems and leaves. This allows me to plant a lot of the main stem well into the soil. The deeper the planting, the bigger the mature tomato plants will be, which is important because large plants are easier to keep adequately watered.

Consistent moisture is critical for tomatoes. To that end, top dress your garden soil with a layer or Premium Mulch when you’ve finished planting. I like to put a single layer of newspaper down around my plants and add a 2-inch layer of mulch on top of the paper. The newspaper controls weeds

from growing around the vines, and the mulch regulates the moisture needed by the plant.

Blossoms that drop off tomato plants and just-won’t-set fruit usually are the result of a pollination issue. It’s critical to spray your plants at twoweek intervals with Tomato & Pepper Blossom Set. This easy-to-use spray forces flowers to pollinate and set fruit. If you have more questions about growing your own irresistibly luscious tomatoes, visit me at the garden center for more answers. However, the simple measures I’ve described will produce an extraordinary crop of backyard tomatoes. Truly!

Lilacs Like Grandma Use to Grow

Growing up in Prescott, we knew spring was here when grandma’s lilacs bloomed.

She would be thrilled with this year’s top bloomers, including all new repeat and every blooming varieties just for Prescott.

More beautiful than ever with the same heavenly scent your grandma enjoyed.

Until the next issue, I’ll be here at Watters Garden Center helping gardening friends grow the perfect tomatoes.

Lisa Watters-Lain can be found throughout the week at Watters Garden Center, 1815 W. Iron Springs Road in Prescott, or contacted through her website at WattersGardenCenter.com or FB.com/ WattersGardenCenter.

Special Section: Home & Garden

Let in the Fresh Prescott Air

by Janet Conrad, Owner-President, Arizona Breeze Retractable Screen Doors

Spring has arrived and it’s time to prepare. Dust off the patio furniture. Fill the propane tank. Open the screen doors and let the air flow in! At Arizona Breeze Retractable Screen Doors, we specialize in helping homeowners benefit from the cool, clean air by outfitting any doorway with durable, aesthetically pleasing retractable screen doors.

Why Retractable Screen Doors?

Retractable screen doors are especially designed to be used only when you need them, and when you don’t, they remain hidden and out of sight. Unlike a traditional screen door or

security door you have to look at or walk through year-round, a retractable screen door’s screen rolls back into a protective housing, remaining out of sight and out of the elements when not in use.

Are There Different Kinds of Retractable Screen Doors?

Although the basic functionality of retractable screen doors is the same, the quality and design of each brand varies greatly and affects the longevity of the product. The quality of the extruded aluminum, plastics, internal mechanisms, etc. is extremely important for the life of this product. Other design

components to consider are the way the doorway latches, the way it stands up to wind, pests and pets, and how the brand was manufactured to stand the test of time and in the event of damage.

What Brand Does Arizona Breeze Retractable Screen Doors Install?

We are proud to install PrimAire Retractable Screen Doors®, the ultimate design on the market. These doors were born out of the need to build a more durable, well-crafted version, with top functionality and an aesthetically appealing design. While retractable screen doors have been around for more than 40 years, earlier designs were developed without the benefit of long-term testing and engineered without being tested in the real world.

The designer of these screen doors spent 15 years in the industry, installing and maintaining retractable screen door systems and has interacted with over 10 different brands on the market. This enabled him to analyze the benefits and flaws of each design, as well as listen to issues and concerns from thousands of customers.

PrimAire Retractable Screen Doors® is also the first and only retractable screen door system designed, manufactured and assembled in Arizona. Their commitment to creating the best solution in retractable screen doors can be seen in the quality of the powdercoated aluminum, mesh screen, plastic injection-molded UVprotected plastic parts and internal mechanisms. You can feel the difference in the quality and craftsmanship!

Why Should I Choose Arizona Breeze Retractable Screen Doors?

We are the longevity leader in the Prescott area and have been installing retractable screen doors since 2004. Because a retractable screen door is a “moving screen” and needs to operate smoothly thousands of times, the installation is crucial. The framing has to be installed completely square, and most doors are not perfectly square. So, the skill of the technician is vital to the operation of this product. Every door we install is custom crafted at your home, making each appointment seamless, professional and fast. Retractable screen doors can be installed on any opening: single doors, double French doors, single French doors, in-swing or outswing doors, sliding glass doors, garage doors, triple panel sliding glass doors and more.

Call today for an instant quote at 928-533-3336 or visit us on our website at ABretractable.com. We look forward to working with you!

Time to Plan your Outdoor Living Space

by Tom Reilly, Principal & CEO, Renovations

Whether you have a large or small outdoor space doesn't mean you have to sacrifice the fun of outdoor entertaining. Large or small, let’s talk about some basic planning for your outdoor experience.

One key feature of any outdoor living space is the outdoor kitchen. Outdoor kitchen designs are as much about beauty as they are about functionality. Consider things like climate, positioning for utilities and budget. Also, all building materials in an outdoor kitchen must be able to stand up to the elements.

Start your outdoor kitchen design by making a list of must-have items, such as a grill, sink, island, gas cooktop, pizza oven, dining space or a bar. List them in order of necessities and then extras, allowing for design and

budget changes.

There are many ways to stretch your budget without compromising style. Prefabricated or modular outdoor kitchen kits in a variety of customizable styles can include compact refrigerators, stainless steel cabinets, custom countertops, dining spaces and more. Choosing prefab rather than having an outdoor kitchen custom-designed may cut down on time and cost, and you can choose from stacked stone, granite, tile or stucco to create the outdoor kitchen that looks best with your existing space.

Whether you go prefab or completely custom, you should consult a reliable, licensed contractor for things that include plumbing, electrical or gas lines. The location of such items as a grill, appliances and sink will make a difference in your design and budget.

Once you choose your basic design, think about any additions for atmosphere and ambiance.

A contractor like Renovations can help you get the most from your budget and help you achieve your outdoor living dream.

Prescott Valley Offers Acres of Cool, Green Lawns While Still Conserving Water

by Heidi Dahms Foster, Prescott Valley Communications Relations Coordinator

It’s that time of year when we’re all a little winter weary and wishing for spring. We look forward to our own gardens, perhaps perusing the seed and plant catalogs for something new to grow.

But if your tastes run to green, cool lawns and large displays of trees and flowers, the dream can be a bit daunt-

ing in our dry climate and rocky soil. No need to put in that much work, though, because the Town of Prescott Valley has a wealth of gardens for the public’s enjoyment.

One of the Town’s calculated conservation measures was to design its Civic Center and 28 parks with expanses of inviting lawn. This allows the public to enjoy many activities — impromptu football games, organized sports, picnics, walking or just simply sitting under a tree with a good book — without having to plant, water and maintain that lawn at home. These large grassy areas have encouraged homeowners to make use of the parks rather than landscape their homes with turf. Instead, they opt for more drought- tolerant plants in their yards.

Smart Technology Making a Difference

With the recent addition of Bob Edwards Park off Long Look Drive, Prescott Valley has about 50 acres of grass, not including the under-construction Granville Park off Glassford Hill Road.

This expanse of inviting lawns is thirsty, but that doesn’t mean the Town isn’t careful to conserve water. First, several of the area’s larger parks are designed as “catch basins,” meaning that during particularly heavy monsoon rains they fill with large quantities of water that might normally flood streets and homes, releasing it at a slower flow rate that drainage downstream can handle.

In fall 2012 the Town received a grant from the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation to help replace the irrigation timers at the Town’s parks with smart technology timers that incorporate Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA). Ten irrigation clocks were updated late that year, and the remaining 11 clocks in 2013. Additionally, rain sensors were installed in all parks.

The system measures how much water the Town’s turf uses each day and how much is needed to replenish and keep it healthy. It is centrally controlled and also takes weather into consideration, using reports from Love Field in Prescott.

Town Parks Supervisor Nick Groblewski says the airport is close to Prescott Valley and similar in climate,

with the exception of random summer monsoon storms. If those occur, he can access the cloud-based system from wherever he is and shut down watering in any area of the Town. Additionally, some sites have sensors that suspend watering if it rains. The system also alerts staff to abnormal flow rates that could indicate a leak or other problem, allowing them to remotely shut down watering in that area.

“That way we won’t have a broken water line running all night long,” Groblewski says.

An evaluation of the system’s performance in the first year (with 10 parks installed) indicated it saved nearly 4.5 million gallons of water, or 13.6-acre feet, and $17,000 in water costs. The estimated savings in 2014 (with the system at all parks installed) was approximately 6.4 million gallons, or 19.6-acre feet.

“The system has already paid for itself just in man hours and fuel, as well as water,” Groblewski says.

Civic Center a Big Draw

The Civic Center complex is one of the most popular walking and

recreation areas in the community. In the spring and summer, bright yellow day lilies, green trees and shrubs and a number of other flowers brighten the grounds. The library area is xeriscaped with the intent to educate the public about native plants and their use in the landscape.

One of the most attractive parts of the xeriscape is the many colorful prickly pear cactus plants producing beautiful blooms in the spring. In late summer, locals harvest the pears and to make jelly.

Birds find the Civic Center irresistible, and many nest on the grounds.

Visitors might see several kinds of finches, mockingbirds, meadowlarks, flycatchers and roadrunners. Redtailed and other hawks frequent the surrounding skies and hunt from the tops of buildings, and owls often can be spotted in the evening hours.

As spring and summer approaches, be sure to plan time to enjoy Prescott Valley’s public parks and leave the mowing and watering to us!

For a list of public parks in Prescott Valley, visit pvaz.net/Facilities

Real Estate Agent’s Passion for Puppies Equals her Dedication to Clients

How does a litter of puppies abandoned on the Navajo reservation end up with a real estate broker in Prescott?

How does a litter of puppies abandoned on the Navajo reservation end up with a real estate broker in Prescott? Real estate to the rescue!

Wendi Roudybush, Associate Broker with Garden Brook Realty, fosters puppies younger than eight weeks, raising them until they are old enough to be adopted by the animal shelters and rescue groups she works with.

Wendi has fostered more than 250 puppies over the last 10 years, taking anywhere from three to five litters a year, both with and without their mothers. Assisting in this endeavor are

three very patient adult dogs, each with their own interesting story. She has also raised two puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind, one that is a working guide for a young blind woman in California.

Wendi served as a board member for a small but very effective rural animal shelter, and she advocates to promote spay and neuter programs. Just as some people tithe to their church, Wendi gives 10 percent of her real estate commission income to deserving animal welfare organizations.

With a deeply rooted passion for real estate, Wendi has been in the industry since 1991. She was a sales manager

for a custom home builder and owned a small mortgage company, offering in-depth knowledge of both new construction and real estate financing. Wendi also wrote a real estate column for The (Prescott) Daily Courier for several years.

As a landlord herself, Wendi understands residential income properties and can help analyze your purchase or sale of a valuable investment. Garden Brook Realty has a property management division, so it can serve you and your income properties if you’d like to have professional management.

$474,500

Just as some people tithe to their church, I donate 10% of my commission income to deserving animal rescue

Amazing views, single level split bedroom floor plan, a 3 car garage, AND RV Parking? Oh, yes! Close enough to overlook Prescott Lakes Golf Course, but in an adjacent subdivision with very low HOA dues. Tile roof, flagstone patios front and back, and beautiful bay windows to enjoy those views! Third garage bay is separated by a wall with a door for a workshop area with storage and air conditioning. Keep your RV right at home with an RV pad right next to the house. MLS 1018429

THE PRESCOTT PIONEER

PRESCOTT • PRESCOTT VALLEY • CHINO VALLEY • DEWEY-HUMBOLDT

ON THE MOON...cont. from page 21

Eugene “Gene” Shoemaker, a distinguished USGS geologist, with having the vision to realize that astronauts needed far more than foot power to roam a landscape tattooed by eons of space debris impacts on its surface. Shoemaker persuaded NASA officials that the area surrounding Flagstaff was geologically similar to the moon’s terrain. The area had volcanic craters, lava fields and Meteor Crater, a huge impact crater formed 50,000 years ago where a meteorite struck the high desert just east of Flagstaff.

The lanky retiree says designing and building a vehicle that could safely travel in extreme rocky gullies and lava-flow filled ravines and craters around northern and central Arizona proved a major challenge for scientists, engineers and mechanics.

He reflects, “To think of putting such a vehicle on a chunk of rock a quarter of a million miles away in gravity one-seventh that of Earth—mind-blowing.”

Tinnin explains, “Gene and his colleagues knew astronauts needed to train in an area as similar to the moon as possible. He also knew to survey the moon’s surface, they needed to travel great distances and transport equipment, to collect rock samples and to haul all the scientific equipment, cameras and other stuff. That’s why, in 1965, he told us to use design concepts

POLLS...cont. from page 20

59; and Flagstaff—# 71.

Results of the Millken survey came from the institute founded by Michael Millken in 1991 as a non-profit, non-partisan thinktank based in Santa Monica, Calif. Its purpose — to increase global prosperity through stim-

suggested by General Motors and Boeing. We did. We then built what became prototypes for the Lunar Rover that we’ve all seen on TV and in photographs.”

By “we,” Tinnin includes Rutledge “Putty” Mills, Dick Wiser, Walt Fahey and himself. All collaborated building the first training vehicles ever used by astronauts in their preparing for lunar explorations.

In 1967, the USGA team began hand-crafting Explorer and other LRVs in a rented machine shop in east Flagstaff. Those hand-built four-wheel drive vehicles featured electric motors and manual steering—either forward or backward--and controls at either end for a driver in a space suit. Combustion engines were simply not feasible because the moon has no oxygen.

The pride of the construction team – GROVER (abbreviation for” Gravity Rover”). Tinnin explained he and the team used design concepts proposed by Boeing. “We used their plans and built it. We used an old truck frame and other surplus stuff we scrounged.”

The cost for the USGS version-about $2,000. Tinnin laughs. ”We built it for that, but NASA multiplied the cost by about 10 and said it cost $20,000. And when the one used on the moon was built by Boeing, it cost more than a million. Go figure.”

He cites one example of creativity. “We needed an antenna on GROVER. None existed that we knew of. I took an old um-

ulating capital growth, creating jobs, improving health, and stressing data-driven research.

Second Time for Prescott by Expedia Mengarelli was equally appreciative of the Expedia announcement. “Our historic downtown, the area’s natural beauty, our mild climate and our great out-

CONTINUED…

brella, stripped it, covered with a metal mesh. It worked. Cost? A few dollars.”

Tinnin grants that building the LRV prototype was not nearly as technologically challenging or glamorous as designing and building of rockets, spacecraft, space suits and other equipment necessary to transport astronauts across the void of space to the moon. Yet he grins broadly. “No one had more fun than we did.”

NASA and USGS wanted the area where astronauts practiced with LVRs to be similar to the moon’s surface. USGS personnel took maps prepared by Patricia Bridges, a USGS cartographic artist. They used them as a template. On a large flat cinder field northeast of Flagstaff, they planted and exploded tons of dynamite and created more than

door recreational opportunities are all factors.

It is the second year in a row that Prescott has been cited on that Expedia list. The announcement said, “Prescott appeals to the get-awayfrom-it-all traveler in us.”

Mentioned are the 500 plus miles of trails and the historic downtown, including The Palace

200 craters that replicated the lunar surface. They later created yet another similar crater field near Cottonwood.

The Apollo program is over— but not forgotten, at least by Tinnin. “I have patches from every Apollo mission. I have them mounted and framed in my home office with all my other memorabilia.”

Tinnin is nostalgic about his experience. “I’m proud to say that all the astronauts –20 of them--who went to the moon trained on the vehicles we built for the crater fields USGS created. I was privileged to know and work with them."

To see Grover or other exhibits related to Apollo moon missions, visit the USGS Shoemaker Astrogeology Science Center, Building 6, 2255 N. Gemini Drive, Flagstaff.

Saloon, the Grand Highland Hotel and the Barley Hound.

Expedia names Prescott among other cities such as San Diego, Chicago, and New York. Only two other Arizona communities—Tusayan and Bisbee— were named.

Read more news on page 114...

Why a Garage Door is the Best Investment for Your Home

by Andrew Mussio, A1 Garage Door Service

Owning a home is the largest investment most of us will have in our lifetimes. Investing in your home is not only a smart decision financially, but will also ensure your home is a more livable and appealing space for you and your family. The often overlooked garage door just happens to be one of the best ways to improve both value and the appearance of your home.

A 2018 study conducted by Remodeling Magazine found that homeowners on average recouped 98.3 percent of costs spent for a new garage door and increased their average home selling price by $3,326.

In fact, garage door replacement ranks higher in recouped costs than many other popular home improvement projects including kitchen remodels, bathroom remodels and window replacement.

Replacing your garage door can also do wonders for your curb appeal. The garage

door is the most prominent feature viewed from the street on many homes and can take up 30 percent or more of your home’s facade. Upgrading to a different material, color or architectural style can vastly improve the way your home looks. A new door can also help create a signature touch to distinguish your house from others in the neighborhood. When choosing a new garage door, it is important to consider the door material and insulation properties. The insulating capabilities of a garage door are measured in an R-value, or, more basically, its resistance to heat flow. Insulation is important for us here in Arizona. Having a well-insulated door can keep your garage up to 25 degrees cooler in the summer and can help save money on utility bills. Steel is the most common door material, but wood, vinyl and aluminum framed glass doors all have their own unique features and benefits.

To

Three Reasons to Shop at the Prescott Farmers Market

by Kathleen Yetman, Executive Director, Prescott Farmers Market

As summer approaches it’s a great time to visit the Prescott Farmers Market. Here are three reasons to check it out.

See your neighbors

How often do you see more than one person you know at the grocery store? Aside from attending church, where do you interact with people in a community setting on a weekly basis? The Prescott Farmers Market is a vibrant gathering place where people are bound to catch up with friends, colleagues and neighbors.

A trip to the market provides people with an opportunity to feel connected to a community. Marketgoers can enjoy breakfast, brunch and lunch as they take in the sights, smells and sounds of the market. While eating a tamale, samosa or cinnamon roll,

share the table with a stranger and you might walk away with a new friend in addition to a satisfied stomach.

Meet your farmers

Prescott Farmers Market hosts farmers who plant, water, weed and harvest produce year-round right here in Yavapai County. Knowing the person who grows the food you eat is one of the healthiest things you can do for your diet.

Buying directly from farmers and ranchers builds trust and boosts the local economy. If you have a question, you’ll get an answer straight from the source. Farmers can tell you whether any pesticides or herbicides were applied, how the weather affects flavor, exactly when the produce was harvested, how it was washed and the best ways to eat it.

The Prescott community is fortunate to have these local experts at their fingertips.

Know your food

Unless you’re harvesting from your own garden, you can’t find fresher produce than the farmers market. Produce found at the grocery store is generally picked before it is ripe, shipped thousands of miles and sits on a shelf for several days before being purchased.

Eating seasonally is ideal because fruits and vegetables are harvested at peak ripeness, which gives them incredible flavor and the best nutritional value. Right now asparagus spears are pushing up through the soil toward the sky. Local farmers generally harvest asparagus shoots only between late March and early June, which makes them an annual delicacy.

Like asparagus, each season the market has specialty produce — much of which you won’t find

at the grocery store. In addition to fresh produce, the market has numerous other delicious foods: grass-fed beef, farm-fresh eggs, sourdough bread, mushrooms, pickles, kombucha, salsa, baked goods and more.

The Prescott Farmers Market takes place year-round on Saturdays:

• 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Prescott High School through May 11

• Summer season starts May 18: 7:30 a.m. to noon at Yavapai College

For more information visit prescottfarmersmarket.org.

BY

Family-run business asks: Is your yard ready to bounce back in spring?

by Tracey Horn, Helken & Horn Ad Agency

To say your landscaping has experienced The Big Chill this winter would be an understatement.

It’s time to prepare it to warm up to a pleasant spring; but what to do and when? It’s easy when you trust landscape professionals to make your home your pride and joy.

Owners of Prescott Landscape Professionals Josh and Laura Crothers can help make it happen.

“As our season transitions into warmer months, you’ll need to adjust your irrigation controller to increase the amount of water you use and adjust your start time to run earlier. This way your landscape will make maximum use of the water,” Josh says.

After a long winter nap, your plants need food to wake up to warmer temperatures. The pros at Prescott Landscape Profes-

It’s time to prepare landscaping to warm up to a pleasant spring; but what to do and when?

sionals recom mend a spring/ summer type of fertilizer to feed your plants and trees. Because of the beautifully unique climate in the highlands, resi dences feature everything from desert xeriscapes to alpine landscapes; each has its own unique needs. This is where they can assist you to get things growing.

Prescott Landscape Professionals is on the grow, too. It recently acquired Nature West Inc. to add design work and distinctive water feature capabilities to make your yard shine.

Nature West’s Bob Vastine started the business 18 years ago in Prescott and will run the design/build side of Prescott Landscape Professionals. Josh adds “We’re thrilled to be able to have this opportunity to expand our business with Bob and

Bob’s clientele. He’s very creative and in tune with the natural environment, and his horticultural knowledge is an amazing addition to our services.”

Prescott Landscape Professionals has been serving the Quad Cities area for the past nine years. From initial consultations and estimates to project implementation, crew supervision and follow-up, they ensure project goals are translated and finished to expectations. For more information call 928-8303480 or visit prescottlandscape-

hen choosing screens and awnings, why choose retractable? Answer: Because it’s only there when needed.

Benefits of retractable awnings and screens:

• Saves money on energy.

• Keeps you cooler.

• Helps save furniture, walls and carpeting from fading.

• Helps stop the sun from damaging your skin.

• Adds beauty and value to your home.

How to determine what company to buy from?

Compare the product quality, value for your money and longevity of the product. A company stays in

business for generations only when they have quality products, efficient operations and fair pricing.

Sunair Awnings and Solar Screens was founded in 1880 in Malmo, Sweden as an umbrella factory. By 1960 the company changed over from umbrellas to the manufacturing of retractable awnings and canopies and was very successful in the Swedish and Scandinavian awning market. In 1978, Olof Martensson, the fourth generation of the family, started Sunair in the U.S. as a subsidiary of Sunair Sweden.

Sunair was the first modern retractable awning company to operate in the United States. Now the fifth generation of Martenssons own and operate the company.

15% Discount on

As a nationally known U.S. manufacturer focusing on the fabric-awning shade business, Sunair specializes in retractable awnings, pergola awnings, solar screens and specialty-awning products. The company is recognized throughout the U.S. and also has dealers in Canada, Mexico, Hawaii and the Caribbean.

Sunair holds the highest of standards regarding the engineering, materials, manufacturing, distribution and warranties to continue providing quality and value to consumers.

At All Seasons Retractables

when we decided to sell and install retractable products, we researched many manufacturers and found Sunair to be the best in all categories. With the best products from Sunair and our well over 55 years of experience in the industry we can offer you the best of everything in shading. Sunair also has a factory in Phoenix, which means there are no shipping costs, time delays or potential damage in transit.

For more information on your retractable screens and awnings needs call 928-717-1247.

Spring is here and what comes with spring? Good ol’ spring cleaning. Yes, we know that many of you are just so excited about cleaning the gutters, deep scrubbing those floors, and let’s not forget the almighty favorite, toilets.

Making Spring Cleaning a Breeze!

by Lucy Leyva, Owner, Prescott Maid to Order

Our goal as a company is to establish deeper relationships with our customers and be as helpful as possible to new ones. Being able to trust a company to enter your home is extremely important. So why Prescott Maid to Order and MTO Janitorial? Because we have a stellar reputation, and we love to help.

We are here for you, we understand how important it is for you and your loved ones to keep your home beautiful. Everyone deserves a clean, beautiful home and we are here, always happy to help!

Services We Offer:

Have no fear, Prescott Maid to Order is here to save the day with our new Total HomeCare Program. This program was specifically developed to make sure you get all your home-care cleaning and maintenance services under one company. Doing so alleviates the stress of calling multiple businesses for estimates. We also offer discounts. The program is designed as a membership, so you know exactly what you are getting and when it will be done.

We offer big discounts when you combine more than one service, and we take care of all the logistics for you so you don’t have to call five different companies. Give us the opportunity to be your go-to team when you need cleaning done. We are ready to provide the best cleaning experience for you.

Words from Owner Lucy Leyva: Being part of this amazing community has taught me so many lessons over the years, but the one I live by every day is that there is nothing more rewarding than to help others and to see people happy. Having the opportunity to provide such an important service since 2005 has been a big blessing and we keep on getting stronger on our mission of service.

• Landscape maintenance

• Gutter cleaning

• Carpet cleaning

• Stain removal

• Window washing

• Porch and patio cleaning

• Garbage can sanitization

• Vent cover cleaning

• Dishwasher cleaning

• Dish, pot and pan washing

• Shower curtain cleaning

• Aerator cleaning

• Degreasing stovetop hood

• Picking up clutter

• Tile grout cleaning

• Defrosting and freezer cleaning

• Located in the

•

• Lot Size: 0.26 acres; approx. 35’ x 151.40’

• 9,818 SF+/- 2 level with Marina St. and alley access constructed in the mid-1950’s

• Garage space off alley

• Vacant and ready for Buyer’s ideas.

Evergreen’s Security Plus Seller Guarantee™

t Evergreen Home Loans, our goal is to help your clients finance their home in the smoothest possible way, finding the best solution to fit their needs. Helping people secure home financing is the only thing we do — we promise to go the extra distance for you. We’ve been satisfying the needs of customers, real estate professionals and builders for 30 years. Your clients have many choices and need a loan that makes sense for them. Evergreen is a Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and Ginnie Mae direct lender with an A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau. Our wide-range of loan programs includes low-down and no-down financing options. Our localized, streamlined approval process means we originate, fund and service the loan ourselves, allowing us to offer

a convenient, personalized one-on-one service. Our Security Plus Seller Guarantee™ program gives your clients a strong advantage before they start shopping for a new home. We guarantee our preapproval, checking the borrower’s complete credit profile in advance, which is then reviewed by an underwriter.

While other shoppers wait for their loans to be approved — which could take time or fall through — home shoppers with a Security Plus Seller Guarantee™ are in a stronger position to purchase and close.

There’s nothing more gratifying than hanging that “sold” sign. This program is guaranteed, or

we pay the seller $2,500*. Everyone can relax knowing the offer is unlikely to fall through.

For more info contact Kate Jenkins, Branch Manager/Sr. Loan Officer, Evergreen Home Loans at 928-445-8652.

Disclaimer: Information is valid as of 12/16 but is subject to change.

*Applies to purchase loans only. To qualify, buyer’s Security Plus Approval/Seller Guarantee Addendum must have been issued by Evergreen and the Seller shall have executed the addendum with their signature. Certain loan types do not qualify for this offer. Restrictions apply.

A Home is Where We Find Our Comfort Zone

by Judy Bluhm, Realtor, Century 21

Home: It’s a simple word that holds special meaning for many of us. It is often the one safe place we can go to escape the hectic world. Home is not just four walls and a roof, it is an expression, and perhaps an extension, of ourselves. Our home is the environment we have created for ourselves and our family, the place

A home is as unique as we are and no two are ever alike. Sure, there are plenty of housing developments with similar homes, but walk through the front door and they become a personal statement. Not limited by features, not defined by decor, more than just a floor plan, our homes are the spaces we build to live our best lives.

People come in all shapes and sizes and so do houses. The journey of life often takes us from small apartments to starter homes to large houses in the suburbs, to even larger estates, and then, a funny thing happens … we want to downsize.

Arizona West

When looking for a new home, there is no one-size-fits-all concept. Perhaps the view is the most important feature. For some, it might be a convenient location. For others, a set of steps is the devil, and one-story abodes are the answer. Maybe you want a place in the country away from it all or a house in town in the middle of all the action. Living on a golf course sounds like fun, then so does having a log cabin in the pines.

My mother lived in the same house for 65 years. The road became busier, the house aged and needed updating, neighbors came and went. But the two huge maples at the end of her driveway were like old friends. The weeping willow in the backyard brought back memories of kids climbing its branches. And the kitchen is where she made a million cookies and a thousand dinners.

Paint, tile, flooring, cabinets, counter-top surfaces, all these things change with trends and time. But the essence of our home is the person or family who lives there.

In the Prescott area, the home choices are endless, the options diverse and all with the backdrop of a beautiful location. In Prescott, the living is friendly and easy. It’s where we say “mi casa es su casa” — my house is your house.

Judy Bluhm, Realtor www.JudyBluhm.com judy@judybluhm.com 602-826-3215 928-713-6100

A home is as unique as we are and no two are ever alike.

THE PRESCOTT PIONEER

PRESCOTT • PRESCOTT VALLEY • CHINO VALLEY • DEWEY-HUMBOLDT

Third Grader Wins 2019 Yavapai County Spelling Bee

Home-schooled third grader Aliyah Alpert emerged as champion on the 252nd word in the 36th round during the 73rd annual Yavapai County Spelling Bee, Saturday, March 9, in the historic auditorium at Prescott Mile High Middle School.

The diminutive victor won by spelling “Romaji—a method of writing Japanese in Roman characters.

“Miss Alpert, an extremely composed, articulate, confident and poised young lady, was the 2018 Runner Up, when she was a second grader. We know she will do extremely well when she represents all of Yavapai County at the Arizona State Spelling Bee in the studios of KAET-TV at Arizona State University on Saturday, March 23, “observed Tim Carter, Yavapai County Superintendent of Schools, who served as moderator for the competition.

The State winner goes to nationals in Washington, D.C. later in the spring.

Alpert battled through the last

six rounds with runner up Rebecca Bond, a 7th grader from Prescott Homeschoolers, for first place.

Two other outstanding spellers finished third and fourth respectively. They were 6th grader Logan Dartt of Humboldt Elementary School; and Lazor Lanson, and 8th grader from Sedona Charter School.

“Congratulations to all. Yavapai County is proud of the efforts these young spellers put forward.” said Carter. He explained that winners receive engraved plaques and checks totaling $750 that ranged from $300 to $100, based on their place in the Bee. All students received medals for competing.

Thirty-six spellers had qualified earlier for the county competition by winning their local school-based bee. The county bee is effectively a “Tournament of Champions,” with students coming from school districts, charter schools, private schools, and from the home-schooling community.

Among the words that proved difficult for competitors were these: charpoy, bromeliad, guillotine,

misogynist, egregious, poltergeist, ostentatious, ergonomic, colloquial, juggernaut, gristle, and triumvirate.

BMO Harris Bank, with local branches in Prescott, Prescott Valley, and Sedona, has provided significant funding to support the Yavapai County Spelling Bee for more than a decade.

“We greatly appreciate the bank’s ongoing commitment to our young people and their education,” Carter said. He also thanked Jenn Nelson, spelling bee coordinator, Dr. Kristen Rex, who served

as “pronouncer”; and three veteran judges: Ray Newton, professor emeritus, Northern Arizona University; Tara O’Neill, education faculty, Yavapai College; and Karen Otis, community Involvement coordinator, Drake Cement.

The Yavapai County Education Service Agency (YCESA) sponsored the 73rd Annual Yavapai County Spelling Bee in conjunction with Scripps National Spelling Bee and a corporate sponsor. The Yavapai County Spelling Bee is the oldest in Arizona.

Prescott POPS Symphony Orchestra Announces 2019-2020 Season

The Prescott POPS Symphony Orchestra begins its 28th season July 7 when it performs “The Music of America” at 3 p.m. in the Yavapai College Performing Arts Center YCPAC).

Music director and conductor Joe Place already is promising exceptional musical experiences during the five-concert 20192020 season.

“Our talented local musicians delight in bringing audiences memorable toe-tapping, underthe-breath humming experiences,” Place said. The coming season will mark Place’s fifth as head of the popular central Ari-

zona orchestra.

Other concerts scheduled include the following:

• 3 p.m., Sunday, July 28

Magical Tour of the Movies

• 3 p.m., Sunday, September 15

Pops People and Places

• 3 p.m., Sunday, December 8

Holiday Dreams and Traditions

• 3 p.m., Sunday, February 16, 2020 - Love and Laughter

All concerts are in the YCPAC auditorium.

POPS Once Again Grants Funds to Support Music In Schools

Several successful applicants

from local schools that offer instrumental music to middle and high school students received $2,000 POPS grants to help support their music programs. Those grants came from contributions from local community members, businesses and organizations, combined with concert income.

One of the stated missions of the POPS Symphony is to provide financial grants to qualified schools to promote instrumental music. Since its founding 28 years ago by now retired music teacher Paul Manz, the non-profit 501(C) (3) organization has distributed more than $135,000 in grants.

Season Tickets on Sale

Place said season tickets went on sale, “…early in April at the rate of five concerts for the price of four – $100.” Beginning in May, tickets for individual concerts became available.

All tickets are for reserved seats. Individual tickets are $25 for adults and $5 for youths 18 or younger.

Tickets can be purchased through the Yavapai College Box Office at 928-776-2000; or by visiting the website at www. PrescottPops.com.

Special Section: Home & Garden

Blind Brothers Arizona Celebrates 40th Anniversary

by Tracey Horn, Helken & Horn Ad Agency

It has been 40 successful years since customers in Northern Arizona have trusted Blind Brothers Arizona to install their window treatments.

Owner Steve Blair is a native of Prescott and says, “I’m so proud to be a native, that’s why I added

Arizona to my company name – Blind Brothers Arizona. We represent American-made Hunter Douglas and Lafayette brands as a priority dealer because of its solid reputation for quality blinds. We also carry more than 20,000 fabrics for custom drapery.”

When it comes to window treatments, it’s best to let a professional handle the job. Keep in mind there’s no such a thing as a standard window size. A majority of windows aren’t even perfectly square, which can cause installation issues if you’re not a professional. From precise measuring to clean installation, Blind Brothers Arizona can handle any blind style or window covering you’re looking for.

When choosing the right window coverings for rooms in your home or office, the selection can be overwhelming. They’ll bring the samples right to you, allowing you to envision what design and color best suits your room. They also have a wonderful showroom where you can see numerous blinds on display.

When you encounter such things as nosy neighbors or harsh sunbeams, the purpose and worth of proper window

coverings takes on a new light. And the days of metal miniblinds and vinyl verticals are long gone. Today, blinds are fashionable and functional. There are even options to program them to open and close at certain times of the day.

“I’m proud of the selection of quality window treatments we offer. I’m also very proud of the service we provide, which is done by our amazing team of professionals: Erik Meinhardt and Greg Lazzell install and measure the treatments; our designer, Jana Bridges, helps you pick the best product for your home or office; and, Renee Hansen is here in the showroom and answers all our calls. It’s important to keep customers happy, and I have a great team to do it,” Steve says.

For more information, call 928-7761845 or go to blindbrothersaz.com.

Master Planned Community Offers Luxury Living

Canyon Oaks at Highlands Ranch in Chino Valley is situated within the master-planned community of Highlands Ranch. Located just 15 minutes north of Prescott on Highway 89, Chino Valley blends the best of rural living with the ultimate setting for a new luxury home. The Prescott airport, shopping, schools and major employers are all just minutes away.

There are inventory homes available, or you can customize your new build with a variety of options. Base prices range from $244,900 to $274,900. The homes are all detached, single level with private, direct-access garages ranging from approximately 1,584 to 2,107 square feet.

Unlike most other new houses, these homes include such features as granite counters in both

kitchen and baths, stainless steel appliances, 9-foot ceilings, twotone paint, 8-foot interior doors, upgraded flooring, 12-foot-wide sliding glass doors to the patios, covered patios and much more.

The affordable monthly community fee is only $27 a month, and no CFD or flood insurance has been required by any lender.

The sales center and model homes are open daily (except Wednesday and Thursday) from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.; or by appointment. If you can’t visit in person, log on to AZCanyonOaks.com to view photos. Financing is available with zero down payments through professional service lenders.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call or email. More information is available at 480-550-0593 or by email at Canyonoakssales@gmail.com.

within the master planned community of Highlands Ranch in Chino Valley, just 15 minutes north of Prescott. Single-level, 3-4 bedroom plans, ranging from 1584-2100 sq. ft. You’ll be impressed with our interior finishes, where almost everything is included in our best price.

Ranch

Locally-Grown, Grass Fed Criollo Beef USDA Process verified Grass Fed, No Hormones, No antibiotics, No animal byproducts. Ever, for the life of the animal Individual cuts for sale • Whole or half sides available!

Available at the PRESCOTT FARMERS MARKET

Criollo Beef

Locally-Grown, Grass Fed Criollo Beef USDA Process verified Grass Fed, No Hormones, No antibiotics, No animal byproducts. Ever, for the life of the animal Individual cuts for sale • Whole or half sides available!

“ I must tell you that this was absolutely, hands down, THE best steak and hamburger that I’ve ever had!” – JC Bell, Scottsdale

Available at the Prescott Farmers Market, Saturdays, 10am-1pm @ YMCA.

Prescott High School - 1050 N. Ruth St. Saturdays: 10am-1pm thru May 11th

Starting May 18th @ Yavapai College 7:30am to noon

Available 2 ways: 100% Grass Fed Grass + Brewer's Mash Fed

“ I must tell you that this was absolutely, hands down, THE best steak and hamburger that I’ve ever had!” – JC Bell, Scottsdale

Prescott Valley, Tuesdays, 2-5pm at Harkins Th

3-6pm at Harkins eater.

Available at the Prescott Farmers Market, Saturdays, 10am-1pm @ YMCA.

The BREED Makes the DIFFERENCE!

3-6pm at Harkins eater.

Prescott Valley, Tuesdays, 2-5pm at Harkins Th

Criollo Beef outscores Kobe & Angus in Tenderness in an Igenity Benchmark Comparison!

The difference is the BREED behind the BRAND!

The ROX Interview (continued)

...continued from page 76

College. But that same money can’t even get you two courses at a big university.”

That’s what we try to do, the most amount of good with the monies that we get. Let me give you an example. I just ran the numbers. There’s approximately a 90 percent student completion rate for our scholarship recipients in the nursing program at Yavapai College. Of the ones who finish, 90 percent to 92 percent stay in the community. That is amazing. All we ask is a moral commitment to stay in the community and the graduates stand by that.

PAMELA JONES: There’s one student — his story is just unbelievable —he graduated as a radiology technologist. He’s already paying it forward at the college. He’s started his own scholarship to pay it forward. Isn’t that wonderful?

DAVID HESS: For the nursing program, students have to meet all the prerequisite; a two- year associate degree. Then there’s a two-year program to get their R.N. What we have found at Yavapai College is their nursing students have some of the highest scores on the state exams. We have yet to have a nurse fail that exam. It’s a really great program. If you think of how little we have to invest to produce a professional, it’s the best bargain in education. At this time, we have provided full scholarships for 123 nursing students and radiologic technology students.

PAMELA JONES: We — the JCF — do not select the recipients. That goes through the college. They select them based on need, not on merit.

DAVID HESS: With a lot of the money that comes in, donors will say, “I want you to do something really exciting with education.” We just run with that. Our ability to have this money helps us do a lot of things. We can support three nurses for $25,000.

PAMELA JONES: And create programs and look and see what’s out there in the community. Where there’s a need, let’s go look at it and we ask, “Can we partner, can we create something?”

DAVID HESS: For example, in Arizona, it’s required to test kids hearing. But vision tests are not required. The county’s education agency is trying to get enough equipment to go ahead and test all of the kids for vision. We started talking to them. They

need equipment. We’re going to help with providing those basic needs. If you think about it, kids that don’t know they can’t see the whiteboard don’t know they have trouble learning because they can’t see. With the right equipment, we can fix that.

PAMELA JONES: We’ve already identified potential donors for this project.

PRESCOTT LIVING: You additionally have gone beyond just health care and education. You’ve contributed substantially to artistic and creative efforts within the community.

DAVID HESS: Yes, we’re going to make a significant investment in the Mainstreet Theater that Clyde Neville is constructing next to the Findlay Toyota Center in Prescott Valley.

PAMELA JONES: The Mainstreet Theater is a little-known gem in our community. I called some friends and said, “We want to take you to dinner, and we’re going to go see a special play.” We went to eat, then we took them to see the kids in the “Wizard of Oz.” Our friends loved it.

DAVID HESS: Another example is when we brought classical violinist Itzhak Perlman here. We had a donor who said, “If you can get Itzhak Perlman to come to Prescott, I will support you”, – and we did just that! The year we brought Perlman to Prescott he only did four performances outside of New York City.

One of the things that we try to do with our projects is create that visibility that we can accomplish anything in this community if we set our minds to it. We try to have challenging projects that motivate people into thinking bigger.

PRESCOTT LIVING: On a bigger scale, you have organized three trips to Israel — 2007, 2009 and 2014. Planning another trip?

DAVID HESS: Our leadership missions to Israel were prompted by our desire to have thought leaders in the Quad City area travel and experience Israel in person. Many of us feel the media improperly portrays Israel, so the JCF wanted local leadership to come to their own conclusions about Israel and its people.

We took the first trip to Israel in 2007. JCF sponsored the trip. When we came back from that trip, we had a follow-up and a hot chocolate and coffee thing. We were showing photos from the trip and asking what everybody thought about Israel. I remember Bill Fain from Prescott Valley standing up saying, “That was one of the best trips

I’ve ever taken, and I think you should do another one and I want to help pay for it.” He sat down. Then Mike Fann, a local contractor, got up and said the same thing. All of a sudden…

PAMELA JONES: (interrupting) Steve Rutherford, a local businessman, volunteered to pay. I mean, they wanted to pay it forward. They wanted to sponsor people for the next Israel trip.

DAVID HESS: The second trip was paid mostly by people who went on the first trip. And the third trip was paid for mostly by people from the second trip. You have, basically, a lot of non-Jews who are contributing to our Foundation so we can take another group of leaders to Israel.

PAMELA JONES: We’ve partnered with the American Israel Friendship League (AIFL). That’s the first time in their entire history that a group of non-Jews, or a group of — well, anybody — has paid it forward. They were amazed.

DAVID HESS: To answer your question about another trip, I think we’re going to try to target 2020. First, we have to raise the money, which I don’t think will be an issue. Next, the America Israel Friendship League, our partner in Israel, has to approve another trip. We were the first organization they let pick its own delegation. Now we’ve been three times, so we have a good, working relationship with AIFL and we are hopeful they will approve a fourth trip.

PRESCOTT LIVING: What has motivated you to be so dedicated, passionate and generous in supporting charitable groups and organizations?

PAMELA JONES: We love living in this community. It’s the kind of community that embraces new arrivals and provides a setting that encourages people to get involved. That means charitable organizations, politics, volunteering, philanthropy; you name it. You can be involved.

DAVID HESS: We both grew up in families where both parents had to work. We wouldn’t say we were poor, but certainly our parents had to watch their finances carefully. But they instilled in us the importance of education and hard work. They emphasized that when we became successful, we should try to make a difference. It’s simply natural for us to fulfill that mission to make a difference. 

You Dream, We Build

by Falen Hague, Office Manager, West Valley Garage Cabinets

Going out to find an item in a messy garage can be a daunting task. Rummaging through piles and stacks is exhausting. In Prescott, the solution to this problem is West Valley Garage Cabinets.

Providing the finest crafts-

10

Love

Work in all quad cities. Experienced in everything from

manship in custom garage cabinets, West Valley Garage specializes in garage and laundry cabinetry. We are proud to be family-owned and operated out of Surprise, Arizona, and fully service all of Arizona, including the beautiful town of Prescott.

All of our jobs are made to order using quality materials. And all of our jobs are affordably priced and come with a lifetime warranty.

West Valley Garage Cabinets is dedicated to serving its customers with a pledge of excellence and complete customer satisfaction. We can help you design your dream garage at your home or in our office free of charge.

For more information, give us a call at (623) 455-9612 or visit WVCabinets.com.

Hear what my clients are saying:

Wonderful realtor! I would highly recommend her to anyone buying or selling their home. Very professional, pleasant and easy to work with. It was very stressful putting my home up for sale. She walked me through everything and made the process so much easier. I would call her at any time and she would be there for me answering any questions I may have. Carolyn went out of her way SEVERAL times to help me in any way she could. I cannot say enough good things about her! You will not be disappointed.

~ Kari

Carolyn is the best! She really took the time to ask the right questions. She had all the right answers! She showed us the houses we wanted to see, in the price range we wanted to spend, and helped with every step in between. She was knowledgeable about the area and the process. She was patient, patient, patient. Whenever we had concerns, she had the solutions. She eased our minds and made buying a house easy and fun -even though we lived in one state and purchased in another, she really took care of us. We love her!

~ Ernie and Marty

THE PRESCOTT PIONEER

PRESCOTT • PRESCOTT VALLEY • CHINO VALLEY • DEWEY-HUMBOLDT

Drake Cement Continues Positive Growth

Drake Cement LLC has exceeded earlier predictions and continues to grow. It is located about 26 miles north of Prescott on Highway 89.

Payroll almost doubled from $4-5 million from five years ago to an estimated $8 million in 2018. Entry-level jobs begin at $16 an hour, with full benefits. The workforce grew in the past five years from about 80 or so to 107 local employees in the Chino Valley-Paulden area.

Another 16 persons are involved in administration, accounting and sales at corporate headquarters in Scottsdale. The parent company is in Peru.

David Chavez, Drake Vice President for Environment, Health and Safety and Compliance, said, because of expansion, it’s not just employee ranks that grew. So did the physical plant, especially in improved plant efficiency, maintenance, employee training and safety.

“Economic indicators forecast continued growth,” he said.

Drake recently constructed a training facility and locker rooms with showers for employees. Construction of a sophisticated maintenance shop adjacent to existing offices and the control room area where mechanical,

maintenance and support personnel can perform plant repairs is planned. Expansion of electrical facilities is also scheduled.

Drake CEO Enrique Rozas and Drake Director of Cement Operations Lawrence “Tony” Turner said the cement manufacturing plant has major success in Arizona. Rozas said, “Drake has captured 30 percent of the Arizona cement and aggregate market. We’re supplying cement to a couple of other companies, too. Demand continues to grow.”

The Drake plant opened in June 2011. It produces two kinds

of cement—Type II for general use and Type V, which has a low alkaline content. Both types of Portland cement are manufactured in a “closed loop” system, which means that virtually no gaseous or particulate emissions occur. The plant can produce up to 2,000 tons a day.

Most cement produced is trucked to Maricopa County.

Both executives emphasized employee acceptance of the company’s stated values: “Safety, Excellence, Respect and Value.”

Karen Otis, administrative and community involvement coordi-

nator for Drake, just finished her 11th year with Drake. She said company involvement in and support of the greater community continues to increase.

Otis mentioned that Drake Cement supports community groups and organizations, including the Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce, the Historical Society, the Senior Events Center, and similar groups. In addition, employees support the Chino Valley Police Department, local schools and Future Farmers of America. They also are active in the Yavapai County Education Foundation, the Yavapai County Spelling Bee, Habitat for Humanity, Women in Business, and several Quad City job fairs.

Chavez commented, “We want Drake to be viewed as more than just a major employer. It is a positive community asset.”

More information about Drake Cement LLC is available online at www.drakeus.com.

members during 2018.

tourism; while the mission is to provide leadership and resources to create a vibrant business environment for Prescott.”

The Prescott Chamber of Commerce, now in its 109th year and one of the oldest in Arizona, continues to grow, according to immediate past board chair Christensen. It also ranks as one of the top 10 chambers of commerce in the state. Christensen said the PCC welcomed 189 new

Christiansen received an engraved plaque for her 2018 leadership. Outgoing Board Member Mike Fann, a former Chair and the owner of Fann Contracting, also received a plaque to recognize his Board of Director service from 2012 to through 2018.

PCC President and CEO Sheri Heiney said she anticipated even more growth and activity during 2019.

First cowboy contest of record in the world was held in Prescott July 4, 1888

by Tricia Lewis, Lewis Marketing & Public Relations

One-hundred thirty-two years ago, the first cowboy contest (rodeo) ever held in America was staged in the pines of Prescott, and the tradition continues at the World’s Oldest Rodeo®.

Now it’s Prescott’s most anticipated event of the year, with the World’s Oldest Rodeo robustly respected among professional rodeos throughout the United States and throughout the world.

Each year, Prescott celebrates the traditions stemming from generations of rodeo families who have competed

in this rodeo since the beginning. Even today, families of past generations are living among us in this great community. Tradition is a huge part of what makes the World’s Oldest Rodeo® special and unique.

Some argue that this is not the world’s oldest rodeo. Other communities have stated they have the world’s oldest; however, there is documented proof that Prescott was the birthplace of the first professional rodeo starting July 4, 1888, and held continuously since.

The other factors that apply to giving it the title is that the Prescott

Rodeo (a.k.a. Frontier Days Celebration) was the first place to hold a “cowboy contest” where people paid admission, and prize money was given to contestants who paid to participate in the contest. Also the rules for professional rodeo were created in the arena at the Prescott Frontier Days … rules that are used today across the U.S. in professional rodeo.

By 1928, the Prescott rodeo rules had quickly become “Rodeo’s rules of wide fame” and were worked to a fine point by committee member, Lester Ruffner; former arena director, Doc Pardee (1926, 1927 and 1928); and Grace Sparkes, secretary of Prescott Frontier Days. These rules have been found to be almost foolproof and have been copied and used at many of the big rodeos held throughout the country.

As early as 1915, Prescott was the shining example to be copied in other places where cowboy sports were featured.

The award-winner at the first commercialized rodeo was a cowboy named Juan Leivas who received a mounted silver medal known as the “Citizens Prize.” He won in steer roping and tied for first place in bronco riding in 1888 and was hailed as the “Best Cowboy” known today as the All-Around.

Newspapers archived in the local Sharlot Hall Museum go as far back as 1864. According to the July 11, 1888 Arizona Journal-Miner, the first cowboy tournament was held at Driving Park, later known as Forbing Park.

In The Saturday Evening Post, Wanden M. La Farge in 1938 identifies the first rodeo: “By 1870, contests were going strong and rival ranches began pitting their top hands against one another. In 1888 someone decided there

was a lot of money going to waste on the top rail of the corral fence and the first rodeo with paid admission was held at Prescott, Arizona. After that, organized rodeo just grew.”

Beginning in 1929, the Daily Rodeo Program stated in the foreword: “The First Cowboy Contest of Record in the World was held in Prescott, July 4, 1888. It was also titled World’s First Active Rodeo, Original Cowboy Rodeo of America and Oldest Rodeo in Existence on official souvenir programs.”

Arizona is synonymous with the West. Its romance and beauty are found at the World’s Oldest Rodeo, which has many traditional activities that were part of the first “Cowboy Contest.” For instance:

• the grand entry formation (serpentine style)

• wild horse race

• cowpunchers bronc riding

Team ropers have used the same box, and the same stock contractor (Harry Vold Rodeo Company) has supported the rodeo for 47 years. Keeping up with tradition, Randy Corley has been the rodeo announcer

for 38 years.

This year, we will highlight and honor those traditions that make up what this rodeo is all about. Watch for stories and traditions to be celebrated on our social media channels, website and local media outlets.

Please join us on our social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram), share your rodeo photos and engage with Prescott Frontier Days! Use these hashtags: #WOR132 #WesternHeritage #WeAreProrodeo

Tag us on your posts during rodeo week. We love hearing the stories from our rodeo fans and encourage activity and participation especially as rodeo week arrives.

Tickets and information are available at www.WorldsOldestRodeo.com or by calling the ticket line at 928-4454320.

Matinee performances begin at 1:30 p.m. Evening performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Gates open two hours prior at 11:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., and people are invited to come early, visit the vendors and shop among some very unique collections.

Rodeo tickets are now available and early ticket purchases are strongly encouraged as performance sell-outs are expected. Be sure to remember the new clear-bag policy. No refunds or exchanges.

See you at the R-O-D-E-O!

Each year, Prescott celebrates the traditions stemming from generations of rodeo families who have competed in this rodeo since the beginning.

LONDON: START HERE

by Elaine Earle, Publisher

London in many ways is home to me. I was fortunate early in my accounting career working for one of the “Big Four” accounting firms to be an expat living in London for a couple of years. After coming back to the U.S. to visit, I often felt like I was going home when I returned to London.

Whether we want to recognize it or not, London is the capital of the world. I often want to deny this but was just back in London over Christmas and there was a hard-bound book in our hotel room titled London is the Capital of the World. I immediately denied that statement but then realized it is true. If you have never been out of North America (beyond Canada and Mexico!) -- GO TO LONDON! In fact, there is a direct flight that goes from Phoenix to London every day of the week and twice a day during certain times of the year! For better or for worse, everyone must see and experience London at one point in their lifetime. And when I say this, I don’t mean stay out by Heathrow Airport or stop by on the way to a golf trip to Scotland. I

mean, go to London and stay somewhere in the middle of the city for a few days to a few weeks. Get a Tube pass; put on your best walking shoes and FitBit, and with map in hand, go experience this incredible global city. You could spend a lifetime exploring London and yet constantly be amazed. Nevertheless, I must admit that after having lived in London for two years, I could not wait to leave the city and did not want to return any time soon -- I actually didn’t return for 13 years! Why? In short, it was all the things that would bother a normal person trying to exist in any big city. I was tired of being sneezed on during a Tube ride to work during cold and flu season. I was tired of opening my front door and seeing a homeless person there blocking the doorway. I was tired of everything being so expensive and hearing stories from my friends back in Arizona that they just bought a 3,000 squarefoot house for a ridiculously low price (their garage was bigger than my London flat!). I was tired of trying to carry my groceries and an umbrella while squeezing myself during a London bus to ride home in the rain (and did I mention how much rain there is?). I was tired of dodging 20 million tourists while trying to get to work as a mere resident of the city. Then there was the five-mile commute to work, which took an hour or more. The trains were a human sardine tin in the morning -- where train personnel literally try to push in as many humans as possible to fit on each train. I thought that I was smart by living in Zone 2, which was pretty close to the city center, but all it meant in the morning is the train is full by the time it gets to your stop. Once, I thought that I would be creative and pack my sneakers and just walk home. Bad idea! I became physically sick from all the smog that I inhaled during that walk home, not to mention, I got lost

in an industrial section (this was before GPS and Smartphones). And the list of things I hated goes on…

So, why would I also say that I love London? Well, it must have taken me 13 years to recover from what I believed to be a bad experience living in the city, because over Christmas, I returned to London to visit, and I adored every single minute of the week I spent there. In fact, I have already booked another return visit with my children for later this fall. Was the recent trip perfect? No. Actually, we encountered all the normal occurrences that made me dislike the city in the first place, such as getting diverted on the bus due to a political demonstration, encountering all bus service stopped due to an accident on a bridge or getting covered in soot while walking as a pedestrian near street construction.

But now with a fresh perspective, I would say that London is absolutely beautiful. The architecture of the city is second to none. There are some of the fanciest, classiest and most modern buildings sprouting up in the city, such as the Gherkin, Shard, Walkie-talkie and the Cheesegrater. There are also very classical, historical, oneof-a kind buildings such as Lloyd’s of London, the Royal Exchange, the crescent-shaped shopping row of Regents Street and beautiful row homes from the Georgian and Victorian age. One thousand pictures of buildings after four days and 30 miles of walking doesn’t begin to capture the amazing architecture of London. I finally looked up and adored the magnificent buildings for the first time ever on just this recent trip. I never noticed the beauty of London when I was slogging it out there as a daily worker coming into the city.

One of the best things about London is that it is one of the most

diverse cities on the planet. Over 300 languages are spoken there and almost 40 percent of the population was born outside of the United Kingdom. You would actually be hard-pressed to find many British people in the heart of London! And with diversity comes lots of great things to eat! London’s Chinatown is unbelievable, as is its Indian food (Brick Lane or elsewhere). I’ve heard that some of the ethnic food that you have in London is actually better in London as compared to the country of its origin. Why is this? The quality of ingredients found in London is the best around. There is always something good to eat in London! While London is diverse, it is also safe. Guns are not allowed and many police officers do not even carry guns. There are also hardly any garbage cans! Ever since the IRA dropped bombs in these, garbage cans really aren’t very prevalent in the city. Millions of people take to the Tube and trains in London for everyday transportation, yet you hardly hear of any disturbances, crimes or threats to safety. Many of these diverse ethnicities have learned to live peacefully among each other, even though their people groups do not get along in their home country. Many of the people from these diverse countries were very fortunate to come to London to seek a better life than their home country. I am fascinated by the taxi or Uber driver stories of how they immigrated to London and brought their families over with them. In London, one thing is for certain -- you will never be bored! Another really great thing about London is its world-class museums. Even better is that they are all free! The museums ask for a donation in a jar in the lobby, but there is no admission charge. And these are some of the best museums on the planet, starting with the famous British Museum. Other really great

One of the best things about London is that it is one of the most diverse cities on the planet. Over 300 languages are spoken there and almost 40 percent of the population was born outside of the United Kingdom.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this publication featuring over 200 pages about the Prescott area!

This inaugural over-sized, hard

cover book will feature area museums, attractions, trails, history, signature events and more. It's a keepsake you'll definitely want for your home or business.

ROX Media Group is working directly with Phippen Museum, Sharlot Hall Museum and Smoki Museum of American Indian Art & Culture to bring you the history of the Prescott area in a format to reference in years to come.

• Wrapped in the highest-quality, hardcover book binding.

• Available in select hotels and resorts throughout Yavapai County.

• 100% of the net proceeds of the sale of the printed book will be donated to select nonprofits (including but not limited to the Boys and Girls Club of Central Arizona, Phippen Museum, Prescott Chamber of Commerce, Sharlot Hall Museum and Smoki Museum).

Pre-order your copy today at www.pl-mag.com

OVER 200 PAGES OF PRESCOTT

Wrapped in the highest quality hard cover book binding.

Wrapped in the highest quality hard cover book binding.

Our inaugural special edition will be available in select hotels and resorts throughout Yavapai County.

Our inaugural special edition will be available in select hotels and resorts throughout Yavapai County.

Our inaugural special edition will be available in select hotels and resorts throughout Yavapai County.

100% of the net proceeds of the sale of the printed book will be donated to select nonprofits (including but not limited to the Boys and Girls Club of Central Arizona, Phippen Museum, Prescott Chamber of Commerce, Sharlot Hall Museum and Smoki Museum).

100% of the net proceeds of the sale of the printed book will be donated to select nonprofits (including but not limited to the Boys and Girls Club of Central Arizona, Phippen Museum, Prescott Chamber of Commerce, Sharlot Hall Museum and Smoki Museum).

AD SPECIFICATIONS

2 Page Ad - Inside Front Cover**

Wrapped in the highest quality hard cover book binding.

100% of the net proceeds of the sale of the printed book will be donated to select nonprofits (including but not limited to the Boys and Girls Club of Central Arizona, Phippen Museum, Prescott Chamber of Commerce, Sharlot Hall Museum and Smoki Museum).

2 Page Ad - Pages 4 -

OVER 200 PAGES OF PRESCOTT AD SPECIFICATIONS

DON’T MISS OUT THIS YEAR!

SPACE IS VERY LIMITED AND IS RESERVED ON A FIRST COME

PDF file format preferred. EPS, PSD, TIF and JPEG file formats also accepted.

All images and elements must be placed at 100% in CYMK with a minimum resolution of 300 dpi. Fonts must be converted to outlines. Layers must be flattened.

**Full-page and 2 Page ad submissions, please add .125 bleed on all sides.

All ads: 0.25” margins - all sides

Submission PDF file format preferred. EPS, PSD, TIF and JPEG file formats also accepted. All images and elements must be placed at 100% in CYMK with a minimum resolution of 300 dpi. Fonts must be converted to outlines. Layers must be flattened. **Full-page and 2 Page ad submissions, please add .125 bleed on all sides.

Phippen Museum 45th Annual Western Art Show & Sale May 25-27

by Edd Kellerman, Executive Director, Phippen Museum

Many of today’s bestknown Western artists got their start as juried participants in the Phippen Museum’s Western Art Show & Sale. This Memorial Day weekend tradition on Prescott, Arizona’s historic courthouse plaza, is extremely popular with art enthusiasts, Western collectors and tourists from far and wide.

It also draws some of the nation’s most talented artists. On May 25, 26 and 27, another outstanding presentation

of fine art is on tap for the museum’s 45th Annual Western Art Show & Sale.

Artists from across the country display artwork in oil, watercolor, acrylic, mixed media, pastel, sculpture and drawing. Although this annual juried show features well-established artists, up-and-comers who create outstanding art of the American West also will be well represented. This offers visitors a great opportunity to see some of the best examples of Western art in America today, while also

providing the chance to purchase pieces directly from the masters and meet participating artists in an informal, outdoor setting.

In addition to this outdoor event, the Phippen also presents its annual Miniature Masterpiece Show & Sale, the fun-filled Artist Meet ’n Greet Dinner, the extremely popular Quick Draw challenges with live art auctions, a public artist award ceremony and free admission to the museum throughout the weekend.

This year marks the 16th anniversary of the museum’s Miniature Masterpiece Show & Sale. This unique and successful sale-by-draw event features more than 60 of the biggest names in the world of American Western Art. Beginning on Wednesday, May 1, the artwork will be on display at the museum and also on the website at www. phippenartmuseum. org. A special mini masterpiece preview and catered reception will be held on Friday, May 24 at 7 p.m., featuring an amazing

collection of reasonably priced miniature pieces. To place an intent-to-purchase, interested buyers can visit or contact the museum between May 1 and the drawing date on Monday, May 27 at 11 a.m.

Presented on the north steps of the courthouse, the Phippen’s Quick Draw art demonstrations will be Saturday and Sunday, May 25 and 26 at 2 p.m. in front of a large, enthusiastic crowd. More than 20 participating artists are challenged to create a finished piece of artwork in only 60 minutes. These amazing pieces are then immediately auctioned off to onlookers while the paint is still wet.

These special art events are very well attended, so get there early to find a good spot to watch the spectacle of artists “under the gun.”

On Saturday, May 25 at 5:30 p.m. at the Phippen Museum, an exciting evening of Western fun will take place at the Artist Meet ’n Greet Dinner. While mingling with participating artists and exploring the current exhibitions, guests will enjoy refreshments, a delicious ranch-style dinner by Big Daddy E’s and live Western entertainment with Sky Daddy & Lonesome Valley. Seating for this event is $30 per person and can be reserved by calling the museum at 928-778-1385.

If that weren’t enough, the

museum also will present another unique show and sale called PAWs, or Phippen Award Winners: Small Art to Go, comprised of artwork created by award winners from the past three years. These amazing pieces can be purchased at any time between May 4 and June 2 and immediately taken home.

Finally, a special Artist Award Ceremony will be held Sunday, May 27 at 11 a.m. Taking place on the north courthouse steps, this presentation is offered to recognize and celebrate the tremendous skill and effort of the show’s outstanding participating artists. Awards will be presented in 10 different categories, including The George Phippen Memorial Foundation Award, Phippen Family Award and People’s Choice Award. The public is encouraged to attend.

Event hours for the courthouse show and sale are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and

Sunday, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday. In addition, admission to this event and the Phippen Museum are free throughout the Memorial Day weekend.

Opening its doors in 1984, the museum was named after inspirational Western sculptor and painter George Phippen. He was a co-founder and first president of the Cowboy Artists of America and, after his untimely passing at the age of 50, a group of his friends and family believed an institution devoted to American Western art should be established in his memory.

More than 30 years later, the Phippen Museum continues its ongoing mission to present museum quality Western art for the enjoyment of visitors from all across the nation and abroad.

For additional information on this event, or to make reservations for the Meet ’n Greet Dinner, please contact the Phippen Museum at 928-778-1385.

The Rough Riders Were Born in Prescott

by Drew Desmond, Secretary, Prescott Western Heritage Foundation

When news arrived of the explosion and sinking of the USS Maine, William “Buckey” O’Neill was Mayor of Prescott. Buckey, like most Americans, was infuriated by the disaster and hungry to join the fight.

While discussing the situation with Alexander Brodie and James McClintock, both veteran officers and prominent citizens, an idea occurred to them to raise up a volunteer cavalry from the Arizona territory. Buckey wanted to raise a regiment of hardcore Arizona frontiersmen. He would call them “The Rough Riders,” and they would become the origin and core of the First U.S. Volunteer Cavalry.

Buckey wired President McKinley for authorization to muster 1,000 Arizona “rough riding” soldiers. McKinley wired back authorizing a number he thought was more realistic

for the sparsely populated territory, 250 men. O’Neill was named captain of Troop A of the 1st Volunteer Cavalry and immediately resigned his position as Prescott’s Mayor. The three had little trouble recruiting the allotment of men.

Off to War

Throughout the spring of 1898, the volunteers trained at Fort Whipple. Then on May 4, 1898, the troops shipped out. For the City of Prescott, the departure day was a wellattended, bittersweet affair. “The entire town seemed to be on the streets, in the Plaza and at the depot to see the brave boys off,” the local paper reported. It would be the first time that Arizona sent its citizens outside the territory to fight for its country. Arizona was the first in the U.S. to muster in its men and the first to have its volunteers leave for the conflict.

During the send-off ceremony, the troops were not only presented with a battle flag, but a young mountain lion named “Josephine” also was presented as a mascot. Over $500 was raised in a matter of hours to outfit the volunteers with supplies, including hams, mutton, pigs feet, pickles, three barrels of bottled beer and other items far too numerous to mention.

A Farewell to be Remembered

“As the train was about to depart, the volunteers expressed themselves as being overwhelmed with the rousing farewell demonstration accorded them by its people and said they would be forever remembered wherever the fate of war might carry them,” said the paper.

The train’s engineer “pulled out very slowly until the train had passed through the cut in the yards, while a perfect sea of handkerchiefs and parasols were waved in the air and a chorus of shouts went up from hundreds of voices,” the paper wrote. First, they would go to San Antonio, Texas, where their number swelled to 1,250 and they met their new Lt. Commander Teddy Roosevelt. Roosevelt wholly embraced the idea of “rough riding” horsemen going to war and instructed all his men to behave as such. After a stop in Florida, they went to Cuba to fight with great distinction and glory still well remembered to this day.

But the name and concept of “Rough Riders?” …that’s pure Prescott.

Sources: Arizona Weekly Journal-Miner 5/11/1898, Prescott Courier 4/11/1975.

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Prescott Residents Urged to Participate in Water Conservation Program

The City of Prescott emphasizes conserving water, noting its necessity to sustain reasonable growth without jeopardizing coming generations.

Prescott Mayor Greg Mengarelli stresses that water conservation is in the best interest of the greater community. Even so, he surprised people by noting that despite population growth, the City of Prescott returned more water to the aquifer in 2017 than had been used—which is a “…positive thing.”

He cited data that since 2014, water usage has decreased about two percent on average annually. He said such conservation is necessary to sustain the future. He recommended the City of Prescott Rebate Program.

He also cited data showing in 2017, Prescott used 6,770 acre feet of water but returned to the aquifer 7,005 acre feet from lakes and effluent treatment plant.

Local water users can partici-

pate in the City of Prescott water conservation rebate program by meeting the rules and requirements of that program. Residents and businesses can qualify for up to $2,500 in rebates by replacing inefficient plumbing fixtures and eliminate or reduce high water use landscaping.

Ten Conservation Items That Qualify for Rebates

When implemented, the below items are eligible for rebates in the amount cited.

• Drip Irrigation Systems. Such systems must include an automatic timer, approved backflow device and drip irrigation installation–$75.

• Landscape Health Check: A certified landscape auditor must complete a landscape audit, including submission of a paid invoice–$75.

• Rainwater Harvesting: Install minimum of a 100-gallon capacity rainwater catchment tank or certified

cistern–$.50 per gallon, up to a $500 maximum rebate.

• Turf Removal: Convert irrigated turf grass to water-saving landscaping. Minimum of 200 square feet of residential turf or 1,000 square feet of non-residential turf removal required–$.25 per square foot up to $400 maximum for residential, and $800 for non-residential/commercial.

• High efficiency toilets. Qualifying toilets must use 1.6 gallons or less per flush–$50.

• Commercial urinals. Qualifying units must use 1.0 gallons or less per flush–$50.

• Sprinkler Spray Head Replacement. No less than 12 units must be replaced–$2 per head up to $40 maximum.

• Leak Repairs. One-time benefit per property for eliminating leaks–$5 per leak, with a $25 maximum.

• Showerhead Replacement. Showerheads should not exceed 2.4 gallons per minute–$10.

• Other Water Smart Devices. Other qualified low-flow,

low-tech devices–$10.

Leah Hubbard, City of Prescott water resource coordinator, said Water Rebate Applications can be completed electronically on the Internet by going to www. waterrebate.com; or by getting application materials at Water Resource Management Office, 201 S. Cortez.

Water Conservation Education Series Scheduled for Remainder of

Year

Hubbard and her staff conduct “Water Smart—Drop by Drop” interactive education programs about water conservation and water supplies. Presentations are scheduled with a different topic each month for the remainder of the year. All are scheduled for noon on the third Wednesday of each month at the Prescott Public Library.

For more information about the WaterSmart Program, go to www.prescottwater,com or call 928-777-1645.

Meet Annie Mortensen

Wife, mom, business owner and fashion lover

Annie lives right here in the tri-city area where she and her husband Judd raise their four children. Annie has deep Prescott roots because her dad was born and raised in Prescott, and she carries on an involvement in the western way of life by producing and promoting Professional Bull Riders (PBR) and rodeo events throughout the country.

Annie also does the fashion page for Prescott Living magazine, so keep an eye out for it in upcoming issues.

Hair: Jade @ranchers wife salon; Lashes: Caity @salonenv; Skin: Madison @ skinintuitive.net

Where are you from, and what is your connection to Prescott?

I was born in Red Bluff, California, but I grew up in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. My dad JC Trujillo was born and raised here in Prescott. Before he met my mom, he had already lived in Steamboat. He loved it there. After my husband Judd and I got married, we thought Prescott was a good place to raise kids.

I went to college in Twin Falls, Idaho on a rodeo scholarship. I met Judd the summer before I attended college. Judd was already riding the PBR circuit.

How did you get into producing rodeo events, and what is your role?

I traveled all over with Judd the first couple years we were married, then we started our own production company 16 years ago. We started producing PBR events, which eventually led us to produce rodeos as well.

The first PBR event was in Idaho Falls, and the second event was in Steamboat Springs. Now we produce a total of eight events. We started the Mile High PBR nine years ago.

I handle most of the marketing, manage ticket sales, work with sponsors and run the books for our events.

Tell us about your upcoming event on April 27.

The Mile High PBR is one of my most favorite events that we

do. Being held in the “Cowboy Capital” — of all our events, it’s the favorite and most popular. It gets high attendance and attracts people of all ages. The atmosphere in the event center is so electric and exciting! Plus, it’s great that it’s where we call home, too, and all of our friends and family get to enjoy what we do.

Rodeo seems to be a big part of your life, what is your favorite part about being involved in rodeo?

I grew up in a rodeo family on both sides. My mom is about as cowgirl as you can get, and well, my dad’s resumé bleeds cowboy. One of my favorite things about being part of the western culture is that you can still shake a hand to get a deal done — it’s a great way to be and a great way to raise kids.

You’re a mom of four kids, are they all involved in rodeo?

All of our boys, JC, 18; Jaxton, 14; and Juke, 4, are involved in rodeo. Our daughter Jordan, 11, she’s really into soccer, but loves rodeo.

What is it like to raise the next generation of rodeo cowboys?

We’ve spent thousands of dollars taking our kids to rodeos. JC and Jaxton have already made a name for themselves in the rodeo world. JC is 18 now and is already making his dreams a reality by becoming a profes-

sional rodeo cowboy. Watching your kid succeed and accomplish goals is the greatest feeling a parent can get.

We travel a lot and we are usually all together. We’re on the road about 75 days a year, maybe more.

What is one thing most people don’t know about you?

Although I grew up riding horses on a ranch outside of Steamboat Springs, I’m not what you would consider a “cowgirl,” I prefer heels over boots (sorry

dad). Growing up, I ran barrels and roped, but I haven’t been on a horse since the kids were born. I do love fashion, and I get dressed up any chance I can get.

I never pictured myself marrying a cowboy — I always thought I would marry a guy in a suit — maybe a lawyer. (Laughing)

As of today, what is one of your biggest accomplishments?

I’d say my biggest accomplishment is being a mom. My kids are my world! Our lifestyle isn’t exactly normal, in fact it’s

a lot of chaos filled with a lot of love. We do, however, make time to sit down as a family for dinner every night. We love our Taco Tuesdays.

Professionally, I feel that running a successful business has been a big accomplishment. Our family business is called Rocky Mountain Bull Bash, and eventually we’ll hand it off to the kids. We’re fortunate enough to have established some great events in some great places all over the country. Pretty much every event we do is a family affair, and I wouldn’t want it any other way.

Watson Lake and its New Ceremony Pad

by Kelly Tolbert, Recreation Services Coordinator, Prescott Parks and Recreation

Watson Lake now features a spacious, flat-ceremony area that captures the stunning views for which the park is known. Surrounded by iconic granite boulders, the newly constructed pad is located just below what is referred to as the Upper Ramada and can be reserved for any use in conjunction with the ramada.

Both the ceremony pad and ramada come equipped with a standard electrical outlet. Split-rail fencing provides more seclusion than the park’s popular overlook area. Perfect for weddings, celebrations, rites of passage or basically any outdoor event, this area is absolutely stunning.

The park is open daily from April 1, 7 a.m.

to 10 p.m. through late September, otherwise closing at sunset. Fees for the ceremony pad and ramada start at $200 for a half-day rental (four hours or fewer) and $350 for a full day (anything over four hours). Watson Lake has a $3 daily parking fee, but if an area is reserved, there is an option to prepay for parking at a reduced rate.

For more information on facility rentals at Watson Lake, or any areas managed by the City of Prescott Recreation Services Department, call 928-777-1122 or visit prescott-az. gov/recreation-events/recreation-services/ facility-rentals. If you want to schedule events for the next calendar year, reservations can be made starting the first Monday in October.

Watson Lake Recreational Options

Watson Lake serves as a special-event venue several times during the year, which a quick visit to the City website will indicate, or a call to the Recreation Services office can confirm. Located just 4 miles from downtown Prescott, the park offers seasonal campsites and a large grass area (over 4 acres) that are also available by reservation.

Additional amenities include state-of-theart bocce ball courts, 18 holes of disc golf, seasonal kayak and canoe rentals, hiking/ biking/equestrian trails, professional quality horseshoe pits, playground equipment, barbecue grills and two separate boat launches. Small groups can enjoy any of the picnic areas on a first-come first-serve basis.

Boating regulations state that there are no restrictions regarding size or engine, however, this is a no-wake lake. Arizona Game and Fish Department regularly stocks the lake making it a local favorite for bass fishing. Designated by the Audubon Society as an Important Birding Area, Watson Lake is also known to have an awesome variety of both migratory and resident birds.

No matter what brings you to Watson Lake Park, there is certainly something for everyone in your group. The natural environment is unique to this area, setting it apart from traditional event options in Prescott.

Expanded Events Calendar: Something for Everyone

by Ray Newton

The expanded event calendar for coming months promises to be “… bigger and more varied than ever,” said John Heiney, Community Outreach Manager, City of Prescott.

Heiney told several local business and hospitality leaders that increased community cooperation and participation created an excellent atmosphere for event variety. Residents and tourists alike can find something to enjoy during the rest of the year, he said.

The group met at the Hassayampa Inn March 5 for “Tourism Team Up,” a program sponsored by the City of Prescott.

The combination of City-coordinated “Special Events” and “Sporting Events” from April through December, 2019 numbers well over ninety.

Joe Baynes, City Parks and Recreation Director, made a point of letting people know the annual City-sponsored 4th of July Fireworks Show was being moved to Watson Lake for safety reasons. For the past several years, it had been at the Mile High Middle-School Athletic Field, but drought conditions and fire danger had caused it to be postponed.

Rick Hormann, City Recreation Supervisor, distributed a list of upcoming sporting events. It began March 9 with vintage baseball games and concludes Oct. 26 with The Prescott Sixer Bike Race. Sporting events range from baseball and softball leagues and tournaments to soccer, pickle ball, marathons, bike races, roller hockey and disc golf.

BY

Prescott is known as the “…softball capital of Arizona,” Hormann said. “Most people don’t realize it, but Prescott has more games and teams every summer than the entire city of Phoenix.”

He said because of increasing number of sporting events, the City likely will be adding more ballparks and four more pickle ball courts.

Hormann noted that tournaments range from local to regional and state championships and, “…fill our local hotels and restaurants with teams and their families for multi-day experiences, which then promotes economic growth.”

Regarding pickle ball, he said, “Our program here has become so popular that we are thinking of sponsoring a national tournament.”

Michelle Stacey-Schroeder, City Recreation Coordinator, told of more than 60 events, most of which are in downtown Prescott. They began April 6 and run through Dec. 31. Events include arts and crafts fairs, antique shows, music festivals, car shows, wine festi-

vals and several major parades.

She said other cities were contacting Prescott to model their event programs after the successful ones that ‘Everybody’s Hometown’ sponsored. "The economic impact from these events throughout the summer and fall is inestimable. We know this,” Stacey-Schroeder said. Baynes told the group, “Events we’re talking about today do not include those planned down around the Courthouse Square by the County and by Prescott Downtown Partnership, Those bring in even hundreds more visitors.”

City personnel distributed a sheet of paper which cited some of the economic impact sporting events alone had. Last year, direct impact from sporting event spending was $2,565,625. The indirect economic impact totaled almost $6 million dollars.

More information is available at 928-777-1552 or online at www.prescott-az.gov/recreation-events/recreation-services

Living History The Past Explored in the Present

‘Living History” activities at Sharlot Hall Museum have become one of the mainstays of public events at the four-acre campus. Every month throughout the year, these one-day events provide visitors young and old an opportunity to actively engage in the lifestyles of the past.

Typically on the second Saturday of the month, interpreters use the School House, Fort Misery and the Ranch House, as well as the outdoor areas in between to bring history to life. The Blacksmith and Print shops also host live demonstrations of work as it was done in the early days of Arizona Territory.

On “Arizona History Adventure” Saturdays, you may find a meal being cooked on the old cast-iron, wood-burning stove found in the Ranch House, along with such seasonal activities as sowing the garden or harvesting the crops, pioneer children’s games or such tedious activities as springtime laundry or winter sewing. Whether hands-on or demonstration, all activities share the “Past Explored in the Present,” providing visitors a chance to walk in the pioneer footsteps of the territorial frontier.

With all Living History activities produced at Sharlot Hall Museum, historical accuracy is stressed in clothing, equipment, and information made available to visitors. People look to the Museum as the keeper of their heritage and are entitled to the highest levels of authenticity.

At nearby Fort Whipple Museum, Living History interpreters provide glimpses of frontier military life, from the foot soldier to the cavalry officer or military surgeon of the late-1800s, including medicines of the frontier and healing practices. Imagine a tea party on the veranda of an officer’s home, with the commander’s wife.

Sharlot Hall Museum is two blocks west of the Courthouse Plaza on Gurley Street in Prescott. Fort Whipple Museum is located on the VA Hospital facility off Hwy. 89. Check the website - www.sharlot.org - for what will be the “Past Explored in the Present.”

Above: Photos of “Living History” adventures at both Sharlot Hall and Fort Whipple museums.

City and County officials participate with Kim Finston

past president of the Sharlot

Society, and Fred Veil

executive director of the

Museum, in the groundbreaking for the new Education Center now in construction. The building will be the focal point for planning and presenting Museum Education programs, and is set for completion in early 2020.

PRESCOTT PUBLIC LIBRARY PRESENTS

Librarypalooza!

Saturday, April 13

Fun events for all ages during our annual celebration of National Library Week.

Make and Take:

Bookmarks and Buttons, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Transform pages from old maps and atlases into your new keepsakes.

Intro to Aikido, 10 a.m.

Have fun moving together, learn about Japanese culture and watch an exciting demonstration. For ages 5 and older; parents welcome.

Volunteer Fair, 10 a.m. to noon

Find your next volunteer opportunity. Representatives from local nonprofits will be present to answer your questions and discuss volunteer roles available within their organization.

Make and Take: Succulent Planters, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Drop in to create your very own one-of-a-kind succulent creation.

Explore Water!

Water Education for Kids, noon

Learn about the water cycle, rainwater harvesting and more with hands-on activities designed for children of all ages. Presented in partnership with the City of Prescott Water Resource Management and the University of Arizona Yavapai County Cooperative Extension.

Vintage Arizona: the Growth, Death and Rebirth of a Local Wine Industry, 2 p.m.

Historian Erik Berg traces the fascinating — and often amusing — story of Arizona wine from the Spanish Colonial period to the present.

215 E GOODWIN STREET

928.777.1500

PRESCOTTLIBRARY.INFO

April and May Youth Events

LEGO Expo

Wednesday, April 10, 4 p.m.

Master builders, assemble. We’ll provide the LEGOs and lots of space. You bring your imagination and enthusiasm! For children, ages 5 and older.

Pete the Cat Makes Appearance at Storytime

Tuesday, April 9, 10 a.m.; Friday, April 12, 10:30 a.m.; Saturday, April 13, 11 a.m.

To celebrate National Library Week, Storytime will be followed by a special guest appearance from Pete the Cat. Bring your camera.

Easter Egg Hunt and Storytime

Tuesday, April 16, 10 a.m.

Songs, a story and a hunt for Easter eggs! For children, ages infant through 5.

Teen Books and Bites

Tuesdays, April 2 and May 7, 4 p.m. For teens, grades 7-12.

5/6 Book Club

Tuesdays, April 9 and May 14, 4 p.m. For youth, grades 5-6.

Digital Media Club

Wednesdays, April 24 and May 22, 4 p.m. For youth, grades 5-8.

Programs presented with funding from the Friends of the Prescott Public Library.

Sunday 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Monday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Tuesday 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Wednesday 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Thursday 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The Highlands Center’s Family Nature Festivals are fun for the whole family!

• Did you know Arizona has more species of ants than anywhere in the United States?

• Did you know hummingbirds can survive freezing temperatures by lowering their heart rate?

• Did you know bats can eat their body weight in insects in one night?

Join us for hands-on exploration and discovery with the enticing backdrop of our native botanical gardens at the Highlands Center for Natural History’s Family Nature Festivals sponsored by Findlay Toyota Prescott.

SPRING SPECTACULAR —

SATURDAY, APRIL 13, 9 a.m.-noon

Come celebrate the 2019 opening of the James Family Discovery Garden with this popular family event. Engage with interactive educational stations that highlight the spring happenings at the Highlands: birds, blossoms, insects, reptiles, mammals and more.

MIGRATORY BIRD FEST —

SATURDAY, MAY 11, 9 a.m.-noon

Did you know migrating hummingbirds can fly hundreds of miles across deserts, mountains and even oceans?

Explore the behavior of ravens, create a bird mask and stop at the Migration Stations. You can learn all about migratory birds at this annual fest.

ARTHROPALOOZA —

SATURDAY, AUG. 17, 9 a.m.-noon

Explore the little big world of insects. Party down with all things creepy and crawly at this Highlands Center favorite. From beetles to butterflies, it’s guaranteed to turn your world upside down.

HALLOWEEN HAPPENING — FRIDAY, OCT. 25, 5-7 p.m. Bats! Owls! Spiders and snakes!

Celebrate Halloween Highlands’ style. Dress up if you dare and hang out with live animals from Heritage Park Zoo. There will be stories and scary scavenger hunts so bring a flashlight.

Family Nature Festivals in the Highlands Center Discovery Gardens

Admission: $6 adults, $4 kids. Free for Highlands Center members. Tickets available at: highlandscenter. org/community-programs.

CELEBRATE THE ARIZONA LANDSCAPE WITH NATIVE AND LOW WATER USE PLANTS

Naturalists will be on hand to help you pick the native plants that will enhance the natural beauty of your landscape. GREAT selections and GREAT prices! All proceeds from your purchases will help fund the Highland Center’s educational programs for youth.

MEMBERS ONLY PLANT SALE PARTY! FRI, MAY 3, 2-6PM Highlands Center Members get 10% off their purchases! Sat May 4 8am-2pm Sun May 5 10am-1pm

THE PRESCOTT PIONEER

PRESCOTT

Prescott Regional Airport Commercial Flights Above Expectations

After only six months of commercial air service provided by United Express (as operated by SkyWest Airlines), commercial passenger enplanements are exceeding expectations.

That’s the word from Robin Sobotta, Ph.D., and PRC Airport Director.

She reported that based on data from early March, Prescott Regional Airport (PRC) “…continued to see strong numbers of enplanements—people boarding in Prescott; and deplanements— people getting off in Prescott.”

Commercial air services from Prescott operate daily to Los Angeles and Denver, with return flights each day.

Sobotta reported that in March, PRC was only 6,390 passengers away from reaching the 10,000 enplanements necessary during

the calendar year in order to retain the “Primary-Non Hub” status and receive large Federal subsidies for Essential Air Service.

In fact, it is speculated that PRC will likely hit 25,000 enplanements during the calendar year 2019.

It was also reported that during January and February, traditionally two of the slowest air travel months for passengers after the holidays, PRC had a load factor of 63.8 percent in January—1,982 passengers; and 63.9 percent in February—1,628 passengers. This was despite weather cancellations and other related weather issues.

Projections are that bookings to both Denver and Los Angeles will see most flights full. Projections beyond that – into July— are equally strong.

Because passenger growth has

been so dynamic and because the current airport terminal is more than 70-years- old, The City of Prescott is moving forward to construct an $11.9 mil-

lion terminal building. For additional flight information, visit United’s website at www.united.com; or by calling Reservations at 1-800-864-8311.

Granite Mountain School – One of Eight STEM Certified Schools in Arizona

Qualifying to become a STEM Certified School by integrating Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines into the fifth and sixth grade educational experience resulted in high honors for Granite Mountain School (GMS) in Prescott. It is one of only eight schools in Arizona to be STEM Certified by the prestigious AdvancED International Education Accreditation organization for PreK-12 schools.

GMS also is one of only 140 schools internationally to earn that distinction.

Prescott Unified School DIstrict (PUSD) Superintendent Joe Howard praised GMS Principal Bruso and her faculty and staff.

“To be unique in the state and the nation—that is taking things to

a whole new level. We are all so proud of Teresa and her team for what they are doing.”

He explained that restructuring of GMS four years ago led to its current academic focus. He said a group of teachers focused highly upon STEM and GMS took that a step further by developing curriculum and seeking Advanced ED STEM accreditation.

GMS Principal Teresa Bruso only received announcement of the honor four months ago.

She explained the school was evaluated during an on-site review of 11 STEM standards on which GMS had to meet the minimum to receive certification. She said the report indicated GMS did well beyond that. Further, GMS also included another broad discipline—the arts–thus making it

a STEAM school.

Bruso said currently, 565 pupils were impacted by certification—278 fifth grade and 287 sixth grade students.

She also said, “We have 10 core teachers per grade level—20 teachers—who collectively teach in teams. Each ‘team’ consists of language arts, social science, and math and science teachers. They are exceptional.”

Rebecca Horniman, PUSD marketing director, said STEM Certification provided GMS with a research-based framework and criteria for continuous improvement and assessment of STEM educational practices.

Located at 1800 N. Williamson Valley Road, GMS is among seven public schools administered by the Prescott Unified School District.

JULY 1-7

Continuous shuttle service will be offered between Frontier Village and the Prescott Rodeo Grounds. It is encouraged to have tickets already before taking the shuttle as sell out performances occur. Shuttles will run two hours prior to EACH performance and run two hours after the performances are over.

SHUTTLE SCHEDULE:

Evening performances: Shuttles begin at 5:30 p.m. and run until 12:30 a.m.  Day performances: 11:30 a.m. through 4:30 p.m.

DON’T FORGET TO REDEEM YOUR PLAY COUPON ON THE BACK OF YOUR RODEO TICKET!

WHERE:

Pick up will be at Frontier Village across from Einstein Bagels behind the large sign on Highway 69 two hours prior to each performance. Drop off will be at the Prescott Rodeo Grounds ticket office.

(Location for pick up is the first left into parking lot just past Einstein Bagels)

AFTER THE RODEO:

Pick up will be at the Prescott Rodeo Grounds ticket office to return you back to the Frontier Village parking lot.