Prescott Living - Spring 2020

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Hey, Prescott! Cliff Castle Casino Hotel’s got what you’re looking for.

• 6-story, 122-room hotel

• Newest, most popular slot machines

• Live music Friday and Saturday nights

• Vegas-style live Blackjack and Poker

• Family fun amenities

• 4 restaurants offering casual to upscale dining

• If you join our Castle Club, you could win $200 in Castle Cash as a new member!

• Storytellers menu created by renowned chef Andrea Di Luca

• Northern Arizona’s LARGEST Non-Smoking Slot Area

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 PIONEER WRITER

Ray Newton

DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING

Laurie Fisher

REGIONAL SALES MANAGER

Georgie Myers

ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES

Scott Metteauer

Jamie Wagner-Brashier

CREATIVE DIRECTOR/GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Tim Clarke

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Jon Kammerman

Shannon Price

CUSTOMER SERVICE/AD TRAFFIC MANAGER

Julie Kahn

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

Prescott LIVING Magazine is brought to you by ROX Media Group, a multimedia organization providing several consumer magazines and destination marketing titles including official visitor guides, tourism maps and other custom products. We bring a “one firm” solution to clients through developing a highly-skilled, diverse and dynamic team to achieve established objectives. We create and execute custom action plans for clients including text, mobile, digital and social media marketing and printed publications. 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:

• 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

Executive

ROX Media Group has been serving the Prescott area since 2013. In addition to Prescott LIVING Magazine and Prescott NOW!, we are the proud publisher of the Visitor Guide – Greater Prescott Area, which is published for the City of Prescott Office of Tourism, the award-winning City of Prescott Economic Development Guide and the Prescott Chamber of Commerce Community Guide & Directory.

Come see us at our office at 130 N. Granite St., Prescott AZ 86301. 928.350.8006 • info@roxco.com

Coming Together

Some things never change, even when it feels like everything has.

As this issue heads to press, a lot of things are up in the air, including, a novel virus that has brought much of life to a standstill, locally and globally.

We don’t know how long Greater Prescott schools, libraries and civic centers will be closed, events expected to draw more than 10 people canceled or postponed, when more toilet paper will come in, or how much more of life will be disrupted by the COVID-19 disease it causes before it’s considered to be under control.

But life is going on, with a huge assist from our community leaders and workers, first responders, health care workers, cashiers, delivery drivers, small business owners, nonprofit agencies and neighbors reaching out to neighbors, many for the first time.

In the aftermath of a snowstorm that came through on the last day of winter, Prescott Mayor Greg Mengarelli Facebooked his ride with a snowplow driver, assuring residents streets would still be cleared, virus or not. Giant plastic shovels dragging on pavement rang out throughout the quiet night.

Prescott Valley Mayor Kell Palguta told residents in a COVID-19 video update if they were unable to secure

necessities like food or toilet paper from local stores or by other means they should email the town at comrel@pvaz.net to seek assistance from Town staff.

Even a budding leader like 9-yearold Aliyah Alpert, the Prescott-area fourth grader who won the Yavapai County Spelling Bee only to have the state finals postponed to a date uncertain, is taking the uncertainty in stride.

“It does give me more time to study,” she told Ray Newton for a story in this issue’s Prescott Pioneer news section. “I suppose the farther away it is, the more I can practice, so I think it’s for the best.”

You will meet many more people who will inspire in these pages, going back to their work in the good ol’ days before COVID-19 got a stranglehold over our daily lives.

From Chino Valley there’s Mitzi Conn, who in the last three years has taken her Now That I’m Safe Equine Rescue nonprofit from the idea stage to finding homes for more than 100 donkeys and horses, both full-size and fun-size.

Our colorful cover art is from the work of Kuki Hargrave, a Prescott artist whose “Fab Town” painting soaks in and then radiates back out the color and vitality of downtown Prescott, the hub of our vibrant region and the historic backbone that proves it has

survived many trials and tribulations before today.

And there is our 97-year-old ROX Interview subject, David Hamilton of Prescott Valley. A descendant of the Alexander Hamilton, he made his own history on D-Day in June 1944, as one of 20 Pathfinder pilots who dropped the first paratroopers on to the beaches of Normandy.

The last living survivor among those pilots, he’s been kept busy over the last year with commemorations of that day’s 75th anniversary and related honors, including his induction into the San Diego Air and Space Museum’s Hall of Fame.

Aliyah, Mitzi, Kuki and Dave are the kind of people Greater Prescott has always had in its corner; bright, resourceful and steadfast, looking out for the rest of the community in their own ways.

Along with my own faith, these inspirational folks and so many other things about Greater Prescott help me know this crisis, too, shall pass, as surely as spring’s flowers are blooming—and rainbows, sometimes double rainbows, come out to show us that someone higher than us is looking after us.

Elaine Earle Publisher, Prescott LIVING Magazine

ABOUT THE COVER

by Blake Herzog • Photos by Bea Lueck

Kuki Hargrave’s 2017 ‘Fab Town’ painting shows impressionistic versions of the Beatles from their “Abbey Road” album cover crossing Prescott’s Gurley Street, at the top of the hill leading into the historic downtown. Hargrave says, “Living near downtown, I walk around the Plaza area quite a lot, taking photos and enjoying scenery by day, and the music and neon by night. This painting is simply a fun take on

downtown Prescott’s unique, enchanting, old-school atmosphere—and what a Fab Town it truly is!”

The intersection in London where the iconic album cover was shot is, of course, a tourist attraction, and in 2018 Prescott LIVING Publisher Elaine Earle and her twin sons Chandler and Christian recreated the shot as well as they could, with Prescott LIVING Editor-in-Chief Bea Lueck capturing their efforts. Earle says now, “Too bad it is a real road with real cars and real traffic.”

• Wrapped in the highest quality hard cover book binding.

• 250 pages of Prescott featuring history, museums, signature events and more!

100% of the net proceeds of the sale of the printed book will be donated to local Prescott charities.

VOICES

Dr. Hojat Askari

Founder&MedicalDirector,ThumbButteMedicalCenter

Dr. Hojat Askari, or “Dr. A,” is founder and medical director of Thumb Butte Medical Center at 3124 Willow Creek Road, Prescott, with over 20 medical professionals specializing in family medicine, internal medicine, cardiology, allergy treatment, and foot and ankle surgery.

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.

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.

Kuki Hargrave

Artist& Photographer

Prescott artist and photographer Kuki Hargrave loves capturing and portraying the natural beauty and unique lifestyle that is Prescott. Her award-winning photographs, local landscapes, and whimsical digital composites are collected worldwide, and are available through the Ian Russell Gallery of Fine Art on Whiskey Row.

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.

Edd Kellerman

Marketing&CommunicationsManager,PhippenMuseum

Born in Prescott as the last of 11 children, Edd is an experienced marketing and public relations professional with 20 years’ experience in local nonprofits. He graduated with honors from Northern Arizona University and has been married to his beautiful wife Mardi for 25 years.

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.

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.

of the Community

Patti Ortiz

Marketing andArtEducation Programs Manager, ‘TisArtCenterand Gallery

Prescott has been Patti’s home since 1992. She has been with the ‘Tis Art Center & Gallery since its doors opened on June 19, 2009 at 5:01 P. M. She is also a founding member of Prescott’s 4th Friday Art Walks and continues to serve on its steering committee.

Kell Palguta

Mayor,TownofPrescottValley

Kell moved to Prescott Valley in 1996 from a small town in Maine. In 1998 he began his career in public service as a police officer. He takes great pride in being elected the youngest Mayor in Yavapai County, and his goals are to ensure that every citizen’s voice is heard.

Sheila 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.”

Ian Russell

Artist& Owner, Ian Russell GalleryofFineArt

Ian Russell lives in Prescott and is a self-taught artist. Mainly a watercolorist, his subjects range from laughing trees and flowers to Southwest landscapes. He’s also the owner of the Ian Russell Gallery of Fine Art on historic Whiskey Row.

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

Marnie Uhl

President & CEO Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce

Marnie has been the President/CEO since 2006 and successfully led the Chamber to a national accreditation through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Federation. She was selected as Prescott Area Leadership’s Woman of the Year 2017 and serves on many professional and nonprofit boards. Marnie has been in the Chamber industry for 20 years.

Fred Veil

Executive Director, Sharlot Hall Museum

Fred is the Executive Director of the Sharlot Hall Museum. He is a Marine Corps veteran and former Sheriff of the Prescott Corral of Westerners International, he conceived and organized the Western History Symposium. He is a board member of the Arizona History Convention and member of the Tourism Advisory Committee for the City of Prescott.

Loree Walden

MarketingManager,YavapaiHumaneSociety

Loree is originally from Hawaii and moved to Prescott in 2010. Her background spans a variety of careers, including 20 years of taxes, 8 years of radio traffic and now as marketing manager for Yavapai Humane Society, where she gets to advocate for and help animals find furever homes.

Tori Ward

ROXTravel, Cruise and ResortSpecialist

Victoria “Tori” is a cruise and resort specialist with a master’s degree in political science. She has completed more than 30 certification courses with the cruise and tour industry including the most advanced certification, Commodore, from Princess Cruise Lines.

Donna Werking

Owner,MarketingAgency,NorthernArizonaSocial,LLC

Donna holds 15 years of marketing experience. Her agency produces Northern Arizona’s most powerful and innovative marketing strategies for web, social and traditional media. She supports Prescott by serving on committees, promoting events and volunteering for nonprofits. She currently sits as board marketing chair for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona (BGCCAZ).

Stories by Ray Newton

Whiskey Row Alley to Have Archway Signs in Near Future

Acknowledging the colorful Welcome to Prescott mural located in the alley just west of Montezuma Street’s popular Whiskey Row, Prescott City Council members have approved $61,250 to install archways at the Goodwin and Gurley street entries leading into the alley.

YRMC Wellness Center Relocated as Part of Hospital Expansion THE PRESCOTT

Yavapai Regional Medical Center recently relocated its Wellness Center in Prescott to 1112 Iron Springs Road. The remodeled building, clearly identified by external signage, is the former site of Whole Foods and New Frontiers.

The relocated Wellness Center offers two distinct YRMC facilities under one roof: The Pendleton Center for Health and Fitness and the Harold James Family Center for Physical Rehab Services.

Director of Preventive Medicine and Wellness Andrea Klein, RN, BSN, CDE, said patients are pleased with the new exercise equipment installed. She said services are the same as they were at the former facility.

The Pendleton Center’s hours of operation on Monday through Friday vary from the outpatient Rehab Center’s at the new Wellness Center. Call 928771-5794 to get available hours.

New Health Center

Construction Began In March

Moving the Wellness Center to a new location is just one phase in a series of strategic expansion plans for YRMC, said Ken Boush, director of marketing and communications. Several multimillion-dollar expansion projects are underway at the 21-acre west campus of YRMC.

Boush said the old wellness center at 930 Division St. has been demolished. It will be replaced with a new three-story health and wellness center. In fact, preliminary work for foundations and infrastructure has already begun for the 100,000-square-foot modern medical office structure.

When complete in 2021, the health and wellness center, which does not have a formal name yet, will house specialties related directly to YRMC West campus medical priorities. They will include cardiology,

primary care and other important services. A demonstration kitchen is included, too.

Concurrent with construction of the new health and wellness center is completion of a new 400-space multistory parking garage, expected to be done by late summer.

Ultimately, the new multistory health and wellness center will be connected by two overhead walkways to the new parking garage to the northeast.

Boush mentioned the new health and wellness center will be “green” — sustainable — and will be constructed with environmentally friendly materials and practices.

Boush said facility construction at YRMC is unique from most other commercial construction. He said YRMC hospital campuses have potential for being independent from external utilities like water,

The purpose — to attract visitors to wander through the alley to view a recently completed large mural featuring a highly stylized spelling of Prescott. Each letter depicts a different visual image associated with the historic community, such as “P” for plaza, “R” for rodeo, “O” for outdoors and the like.

The mural was created by local artists Julian Hutchins and Dana Cohn. Visitors passing through the alley to view the mural must pass entryways into a diverse group of businesses and attractions located on the more than century-old Whiskey Row.

Enhancement of the alleyway was just one of many recommendations that came from a 2019 downtown revitalization series of discussions, Flip This Town, led by consultant Ron Drake and sponsored through the Prescott Chamber of Commerce.

The archway will be constructed by local company Work

PIONEER

Willow Creek Apartments Welcoming New Residents

Renters are now moving into Willow Creek Apartments at 3137 Willow Creek Road in Prescott. The 160-unit complex has studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom and carriage-house apartments.

Six apartment floor plans range from just over 670 square feet to 1,188 square feet. Some units offer disability access.

See floor plans at www.willowcreekaptsprescott.com/ floorplans.

Rental rates can be viewed on the same link. Rent ranges from $1,200 to $1,768 a month. Some utilities are included.

Owner-developer Cole Johnson said all units feature a fullsize washer and dryer, stainless steel kitchen appliances, granite countertops and spacious living

areas with wood plank flooring and carpeting, mini-blinds and curtains, and central air and heating. All are cable ready.

Each unit has its own balcony or patio. All are adjacent to substantial open space. Covered parking is assigned for the apartments. Carriage houses have detached garages.

Seven buildings are in the 5-acre complex, one of which is the clubhouse and fitness center.

The clubhouse, located near the entrance, has a full kitchen. It also has a community entertainment center for private events. Several outdoor barbecue

areas are adjacent. The fitness center is open 24 hours daily.

All residents have access to an onsite fenced dog park.

“People will have to search to find a better view of Granite Mountain just west of here,” Johnson said. “They also are within minutes of some biking and hiking on trails near Willow Creek Lake and a bit further, the Granite Dells.”

Johnson is a native of the area, and he and his family have lived in Prescott for years. He is president of Paul Johnson Drywall, a major supplier not just in Prescott but also Phoenix and Nevada.

Mascher Announces Retirement as Sheriff

Scott Mascher, Yavapai County Sheriff since 2011, has announced his retirement, effective when his term expires at the end of December 2020. Mascher has been a member of the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office since 1983.

A news release from the YCSO quoted Masher: “I have accomplished many goals as sheriff and am ready to pass the torch as I move into private life and explore other opportunities following my

retirement next year.” Mascher, 58, began his law enforcement career 37 years ago. He was a volunteer deputy in the

Verde Valley in 1983. In 1986, he became a full-time deputy.

He earned an administration of justice degree and later graduated from the Arizona Law Enforcement Training Academy. He also graduated from the FBI National Academy.

He worked his way up the ranks of sergeant, lieutenant, captain, commander and chief deputy. When his predecessor Steve Waugh retired in 2011, Mascher was appointed as sheriff.

He later was elected and then

Johnson tries to spend as much time as he can in Prescott.

“I think it’s important to pay back to this community that has been so good to me and my family. We are directly involved in helping the Coalition for Compassion and Justice and similar organizations in solving the homeless issue. We cooperate with other contractors in providing assistance where we can.”

Johnson recently was named to the Prescott Community Development Taskforce.

The approximate value of the Willow Creek Apartments complex is approaching $40 million.

reelected. Mascher has administered three divisions: Law Enforcement Services, Detention Services and Support Services in Yavapai County, which at 8,128 square miles is one of the largest counties in the U.S.

Chief Deputy David Rhodes has announced his intent to run for sheriff following Mascher’s retirement. Rhodes has been with the YCSO since 1994.

Read more news on page 44...

David Hamilton

A ‘Pathfinder’ All His Life

The last surviving pilot who flew paratroopers into Nazi-occupied France during World War II is still telling his story throughout the United States — and sometimes, Europe.

He is David Hamilton, 97, who since 1994 has been living in Prescott Valley.

Hamilton was born into a family whose paternal genealogy stretches back to Alexander Hamilton (1755-1804), an American statesman, politician, scholar, banker and economist. David boasts that his ancestor, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, was an influential interpreter and promoter of the U.S. Constitution. “We’ve got the best government in the world, and my ancestor helped make it that way,” David says. “His image is even on a $10 bill. Don’t you think I look like him?” David grins.

Witty comments like that are not uncommon from the still vigorous, agile and articulate Hamilton.

For instance, when asked the secret of his longevity, he grinned, “Good Hamilton genes — and lousy German anti-aircraft fire.”

That Hamilton was shot at by the Nazis is indisputable. He has no idea how many times he flew home from missions with bullet holes his aircraft.

Those missions began shortly before midnight on June 5, 1944. David was stationed in England. He climbed into the pilot’s seat of a Douglas C-47 loaded with

paratroopers who were the first contingent of Allied forces to land in Normandy, France. He was one of 20 select pilots and crews trained in secrecy known as the “Elites” who were to drop pathfinder troops behind enemy lines to begin the D-Day invasion.

Just 21 years old, Hamilton flew across the English Channel 50 feet above the waves to stay below German radar. As he approached the shoreline at about 1:30 a.m., he increased altitude so the paratroopers would have enough height so their parachutes would open when they leaped from the plane. He and his crew then turned the plane around and headed back to England, again at a low altitude.

He recalls: “I was pushing that plane along at about 200 knots when my navigator yelled at me. ‘Hey, Dave, something’s wrong with the radar. It’s got spots all over it.’ My co-pilot took over. I went back to the circular radar screen, which was pointed down. It looked like it had measles — white spots all over the screen. You could have walked on the white dots from England to France. Then we figured it out. Those were the hundreds of ships and boats headed toward the Normandy beaches, loaded with the troops who were going to invade. I’ll never forget that scene.”

Hamilton and his four-man crew arrived in England about daybreak — 5:30 a.m. Following a debriefing and steak-and-eggs breakfast, they headed toward

their barracks and bed. “But first, I had a good shot of I.W. Harper whiskey,” Hamilton grins.

How was it that a fuzzycheeked young man found himself among the other 19 elite crews in the 9th U. S Army Air Force, 436th Trooper Carrier Group, in North Witham Air Base, England, leading the way to Normandy?

Actually, it began on Dec. 8, 1941 — the day after the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor in Hawaii, marking the entrance of the United States into World War II. Hamilton walked into a recruiting station and volunteered for the Air Force as a private. Within weeks, Hamilton had trained at various air bases around the United States. Soon he was deployed to Africa and then Europe.

When Gen. Dwight David “Ike” Eisenhower was named the Supreme Allied Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force in

“What is Your Secret to a Long Life? Good genes — and lousy German antiaircraft fire.”

Interview by Ray Newton

Europe, he organized the invasion of North Africa in 1942-43 and the later successful invasion of Normandy in 1944. One of those Ike called upon to help his plan was David’s father. The senior Hamilton had been a pilot and officer during World War I.

Though Hamilton doesn’t say so directly, his selection as one of the 20 Pathfinder Elite pilots may have been influenced because of Eisenhower’s relationship with Hamilton’s family. Also, the Hamiltons were fairly well-known among the prominent in Britain and the Continent.

Hamilton’s parents were Pierpont Morgan Hamilton, sometimes called “Pete,” and Marisa Blair Hamilton. They had lived in England before the war because his father was an influential executive in international banking. That’s why David was born in Watford, England in July 1922. Not long af-

The ROX Interview (continued)

ter his birth, his parents moved to France, where his father continued working in the international financial market. Throughout David’s childhood, his parents associated with the wealthy prominent leaders and celebrities.

David laughs when telling about being taught to dance by famed vaudeville and Broadway dancers and actors — brother and sister act Fred and Adele Astaire, who frequently performed in Europe. The Astaires were family friends.

David and his two brothers, Philip and Ian, lived comfortable lives in France. It continued after the family returned to the U.S. They lived in New York City. His paternal grandfather, William Pierson Hamilton, had married Juliet, one of the daughters from the J.P. Morgan family, renowned as the dominant players on Wall Street and founders of the J.P. Morgan and Company financial empire. Concern about money was never really an issue.

For instance, when David and his brothers wanted to see a Major

League game, all they had to do was call the family chauffeur, Smitty. He would take them to famed Polo Grounds Stadium, where they would sit behind home plate in their grandfather’s box seats. David recalls, “We got to meet all the great ballplayers — Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Mel Ott — all of them.”

That kind of lifestyle continued as David moved into his teen years, even after he volunteered for the air corps.

When World War II started, David’s father immediately was called on to serve as an officer. The Pentagon stationed the senior Hamilton in London. That’s how he met Eisenhower and served on his staff as a colonel and later as a major general during the Korean War. The natural consequence of that relationship? When David became a second lieutenant and was serving in Europe, he was invited to soirees where he met Eisenhower and other key military decision-makers.

After flying the Normandy

mission, David led supply planes into the 101st Airborne during the Battle of the Bulge. When the war ended, he became a civilian once again but continued flying. He flew C-47s and C-54s with Transair, a nonscheduled airline, with a route going from Newark to Miami and then Havana, Cuba. He later flew Constellations with American Overseas airlines. That airline was bought out by Pam Am. Hamilton was low on the seniority rating system, so he quit flying and entered the advertising business.

When the Korean War began in June 1950, David returned to what was then the United States Air Force, flying B-56s in 50 combat missions. In November 1952, he was named operations officer of air evacuation at Bolling Air Force Base in Washington, D.C. He served there until he transferred to the reserves with the Eastern Air Defense Command. He retired from the military in 1964.

In civilian life, David became an executive with Heublein Inc., an al-

PRESCOTT LIVING: We understand because of your family connections, as a young adult you knew many British royalty, including the Earl Louis Mountbatten and his nephew Prince Philip.

DAVID HAMILTON: During World War II, Lt. Mountbatten used to come up from Perdannac with a couple of buddies. He and I were members of the same club in London, which had the best music, the best food and the best bar in London. Most important was the bar and the music.

And I did know Prince Philip from earlier for he was in school in France where I was.

PRESCOTT LIVING: You grew up in a British-style family environment, didn’t you?

DAVID HAMILTON: Yeah. But I took advantage of it (laughs).

PRESCOTT LIVING: Your mother during World War II — what was she doing?

DAVID HAMILTON: She was running a Red Cross club in London. We had a top-secret

coholic beverage and food distributor. His leadership role there had him moving regularly from coast to coast — California and Oregon on the West Coast and Delaware and Maryland on the East.

David was married to Lillian “Mitzi” Hamilton for 27 years. He laughingly tells of their wedding. “Mitzi wanted a parade for her wedding, so we got married on St. Patrick’s Day — March 17, 1945.”

They were the parents of two children, son Pierson Hamilton, now a teacher living in Phoenix, and daughter Lanier Hamilton, a veterinarian who lives in Lander, Wyoming. He is a grandfather and recently became a great-grandfather. He and his wife divorced in 1972.

After leaving Heublein in 1975, David moved to San Francisco, where he worked at various jobs until 1994.

Hearing David recall some of his adventures is like having a conversation with a 97-year old time machine. Some of his memories are shared in the following.

flight from North Africa up to England. So when I arrived in England, a lieutenant came aboard my airplane. ‘Lt. Hamilton, Lt. Hamilton!’ I said ‘Here.’ He says, ‘Call your mother in London.’ So much for security.

PRESCOTT LIVING: Your father was doing what at the time you were in England?

DAVID HAMILTON: He was back in the Pentagon by then. Father had been assigned there the minute he went back on active duty. He’d flown in World War I. He was a pilot. Then he went in the banking business. And he went from the banking business into the motion picture business. But he went into active duty in the air corps right after Pearl Harbor. And Gen. Henry ‘Hap’ Arnold sent him as his eyes and ears to Louis Mountbatten’s commandos in England. Father went on the Dieppe Raid and gave a report to Arnold on air ground.

Hap Arnold was head of the army air

forces. My dad came back and made his report. He was told to take some leave and then report to a Gen. George Patton. He was a brigadier general in Norfolk, Virginia. Dad got to Norfolk, got aboard the airplane and found out that they were going to go to North Africa after briefings. An aircraft carrier had 40 P40s on it that could take off, but they couldn’t land. So they flew to Port Lyautey in Morocco. They had to land on the air base.

Dad and Col. Cora were looking for the commanding officer. They wanted to make liaison with the French and say, ‘We’re here to fight the Germans, not you guys.’ You may recall that we didn’t know when we went into Africa whether the French were going to fight us or not.

PRESCOTT LIVING: So your dad was in a jeep hunting for French leaders?

DAVID HAMILTON: Dad’s in the jeep with his feet over the back, behind the passenger seat, holding a white flag of truce. A French flag and an American flag are wired to the front of the radiator. They come around this corner. A French machine gun opens up. And it hits Col. Cora — five bullets — kills him instantly. He falls over onto the lap of the driver. Dad jumps off. Dad spoke superb French. Both diplomatic and taxicab French. And he questions whether the father and mother of the commanding officer of that machine gun nest knew each other. He learns that under the tutelage of the Germans, the French learned to shoot on a flag of truce. So they return to Cora’s body. Father went in, removed Cora’s .45 pistol. He later gave it to me. I carried that .45 in two wars — Europe and Korea.

Anyway, my father ended up talking to a French general to locate a bugler. They drove up and down the French-American lines blowing the cease-fire all night long. They saved, according to Gen. Patton’s command, about 11,000 lives.

Father got put in for the Medal of Honor. I then was in aviation cadets. I got called into the commandant’s office of cadets, I thought ‘Oh boy, what have I done now?’ And he said, ‘Hamilton, for your information, your father has been awarded the Medal of Honor by the president of the United States.’

PRESCOTT LIVING: That president would have been Franklin Delano Roosevelt.

DAVID HAMILTON: When that story about dad was published in Waco, Texas, about dad and me, I got 13 proposals of marriage. My ring is from Blackland Army Flying School in Waco. Twin-engine advanced. And you won’t find one of those planes in an American air museum anywhere. They sold every one of that they had.

PRESCOTT LIVING: You were a cadet there?

DAVID HAMILTON: Yeah! Class of 43-C — March 1943. I got my wings and commission. I took basic at Perrin Air Force Station. Sherman-Dennison, Texas up on the Red River — Eisenhower’s birthplace. I also went to C-47 school in Austin. United Airlines actually ran a school there. You got 30 days in a C-47 type airplane. I was a co-pilot learning how to fly one. The name of that field then was Bergstrom.

PRESCOTT LIVING: Let me ask you this. How old were you when you enlisted?

DAVID HAMILTON: I guess I was 18 and a half. It was the day after Pearl Harbor.

PRESCOTT LIVING: Why did you enlist the day after Pearl Harbor?

DAVID HAMILTON: Well, I was damn mad and cussing. In 1934, I’d sailed in Pearl

Harbor. Oh, I learned how to swear from Major George Patton! He was a polo player. He had his polo ponies, and he used to play right below my house in New York. My mother said, ‘You boys playing on your stick horses better stick to that and bicycle polo. Stay out of the way of the grown-ups on their horses.’ I used to hot walk Patton’s horses. I got a quarter.

Patton’s wife, Beatrice Ayer, was from Boston, knew my mother slightly. Not very well but, they got to know each other better.

At one time, when I was flying fuel to Patton’s army in Europe, my commander called me and said, ‘The General wants to see you.’

So I went and he said ‘Hamilton? How are you?’ I said, ‘Very well, sir.’

He said, ‘Are you happy?’ I said, ‘As well as can be compared with what’s going on and everything.’ Patton said, ’Well you’ve been bringing gasoline over to my troops for a long time. Why don’t you stay for lunch?’

I said,’ Yes, sir.’So I sat down for lunch with Col. Charlie Codman and all of the

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CITY SPEAK FIRE SEASON IS HERE; PRESCOTT HAS WEALTH OF COOPERATION,

We are fortunate to have a number of important resources available to us to prevent and fight wildland fires and to protect your property or business.

ARESOURCES

by Greg Mengarelli, Mayor, City of Prescott

s temperatures warm up, it is important to remember that Prescott’s fire season is generally April through June. While we are always thinking ahead and working hard to be prepared, it in no way means we can let our guard down. Prescott Fire Chief Dennis Light points out that, historically, some of the biggest fires that have occurred in Arizona come immediately following a wet season.

We are fortunate to have a number of important resources available to us to prevent and fight wildland fires and to protect your property or business.

To mitigate, prevent and suppress wildfires, the City of Prescott and the Prescott Fire Department partner with Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority, Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, the Bureau of Land Management and Prescott National Forest. When the need arises, we call upon all our local partners and, when necessary, those from around the Southwest to provide suppression of fires in our wildland urban interface and other forested areas.

Regional partnerships and interagency cooperation are truly the key to maintaining positive stewardship of our wildland interface. We are fortunate to have so many valuable partners in the community. To keep communication open and these relationships working in the most productive way, stakeholders assemble twice annually to review the various area fuel reductions projects being pursued and coordinate each agency’s work to ensure value is added to our community through interagency cooperation.

Another key to managing wildfire suppression is the Prescott National Forest, which manages the public

lands surrounding our city. In addition to the Bradshaw Ranger District fire personnel, the Prescott National Forest has the Henry H. Kim Fire Center at the Prescott Regional Airport. This facility holds a large cache of supplies and an expert staff primarily responsible for all of Arizona, New Mexico and parts of west Texas.

At peak season, the Fire Center can have as many as 60 to 70 professionals specializing as pilots, communications specialists, supply management teams, logistics experts and firefighters including the Prescott Interagency Hotshot Crew, established in 1973.

The Fire Center is capable of hosting a number of aircraft of various sizes from helicopters to the large air tankers. This is an extremely well-equipped facility that hosts local, regional and national suppression resources. The Fire Center and Prescott National Forest are part of a large network of fire suppression resources that can be mobilized over short and long distances to support communities and natural resources threatened by wildfire, and it is literally in our own backyard.

Beyond our interagency partnerships, our citizens are vital to the prevention and protection of our community. It is important to keep your property clear of debris, maintain a defensible space around your home, and to plant shrubs and trees away from your home. Help our firefighters do their jobs and help yourself by actively managing the defensible space around your property and homes.

Prescott Area Wildland Urban Interface Commission (PAWUIC) is a great educational resource to help citizens manage the risk of fire damage to their property. To learn more, visit www.yavapaifirewise.org.

We should all be confident in our community’s capacity to reduce risk and keep each other safe. Every agency and individual involved in the protection of our community is simply the best.

PRESCOTT VALLEY HAS A SPRING IN ITS STEP AND A LOT ON ITS PLATE

by Kell Palguta, Mayor, Prescott Valley

I often tell people that Prescott Valley will never be Prescott, just as much as Prescott will never be Prescott Valley.

Hello everyone! I really think that spring in Prescott Valley is one of my favorite times of the year. Actually, the more I think about it, we have some of the greatest weather 365 days a year here in Prescott Valley.

With great weather comes an opportunity to get outside and enjoy what the community has to offer. For those who love hiking, Prescott Valley offers residents and visitors the opportunity to hike the Glassford Hill Summit Trail and take in one of the best views of the Central Highlands possible in all the Quad-City area. On a clear day you can easily see the San Francisco Peaks located in Flagstaff over 80 miles to the north.

If hiking a trail that ascends more than 940 feet in 2.1 miles is not for you, be sure to take a stroll at Fain Park and check out the mining and gold panning history of Lynx Creek, which was one of the reasons that originally brought people to our area many years ago. When speaking of the Town of Prescott Valley and history it is easy to forget that the Town is actually very young when it comes to incorporation.

Being a young town brings new challenges and new opportunities. One of the opportunities/challenges

that Prescott Valley is currently tackling is bringing a YMCA to fruition. The Town is working side by side with the YMCA of Prescott to bring forth an idea and make it into a reality that will benefit not only the citizens of Prescott Valley but the surrounding areas as well. A YMCA is so important in helping to provide services and programs to all ages of a community. It’s important that we all work together to make this project a reality.

Over the past few months the Town of Prescott Valley has welcomed a wide variety of different events and attractions at the Findlay Toyota Center, which as many of you know is the only 4,500-seat arena in Northern Arizona. These events bring visitors from all around Arizona, not only for one event but to experience everything our community has to offer.

I often tell people that Prescott Valley will never be Prescott, just as much as Prescott will never be Prescott Valley. Each of our communities can work together to enhance each visitor’s experience to the area.

As a Town of what many estimate to be more than 50,000 people, the Town of Prescott Valley takes seriously the sustainability of our community for generations to come. The Town has a goal to ensure that we are at “safe yield” by the year 2025. Safe yield is ensuring the aquifer from which we receive our water remains at the same level and that we as a Town don’t take out more water than can be recharged.

The Town will be moving through 2020 with excitement, knowing we are the hidden gem of Yavapai County. Slowly but surely the secret is getting out, and visitors are recognizing that Prescott Valley has a lot more to offer than just a pass-through on Highway 69. I encourage anyone interested in learning more about Prescott Valley to not only check out the Town of Prescott Valley’s Facebook page and its website at www.pvaz.net, but also reach out to the Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce (www.pvchamber.org) with any questions.

As always, you can reach out directly to me at mayor@pvaz.net with any questions, comments, issues or concerns. I love interacting with every citizen and visitor who comes to Prescott Valley or those who are considering coming to Prescott Valley. Have a great spring!

Economy • Local Business

Spring Cleaning Works for Businesses, Too

by Sheri Heiney, President & CEO, Prescott Chamber of Commerce

Small-business spring cleaning, while time-consuming, is extremely beneficial to small business owners: Good time to trim the fat from their organizations while streamlining business processes. It’s exactly like regular spring cleaning except it involves way less elbow grease and a lot more professional evaluating. OK, so it’s nothing like regular spring cleaning.

Assuming you’re on board with the idea, set aside some time this spring to clean up your company.

Business

Spring

Cleaning Tips

Clean your office. Literally.

I mean, you might as well. No one has vacuumed behind the printer in years.

Update your website and social media

Go through and take stock of what your online presence is like. Is there some copy on your site that could be rewritten to sound better or more accurately reflect slight shifts in your target market or what kinds of services you are focusing on now? Is your brand being represented as effectively as possible?

Now is a good time to tighten things up and fix all the little details that, although they don’t take a lot of effort, make a big impact. Organize your emails

Shop to see if you can get better prices on materials and utilities

Are you getting the best deal on business communications? What about your cloud infrastructure and hosting fees? From time to time, it’s worth reexamining your relationship with suppliers and vendors to see whether you can reduce your expenses.

Get in the habit of making this a regular part of your small business spring cleaning.

Invest

in technologies that save money on the backend

When’s the last time you invested in new platforms? You can improve your cash flow by strengthening team productivity through investments in the right technologies.

The perfect collaboration platform, for example, will almost certainly increase your team’s output by accelerating decision-mak-

ing processes and helping move projects forward faster. The right investments will enable you to take on more clients and generate more revenue, making cash flow management much easier.

Change the way you invoice

There’s no law that says you have to wait until the end of the month to bill your customers. If you’re struggling with cash flow, change the way you invoice your clients. Instead of sending all your bills out in one fell swoop at the end of the month, immediately invoice your customers as soon as projects are completed. This should accelerate payments by at least a little bit. You may also want to offer discounts to encourage your customers to pay early.

Specifically look at the way cash flows through your small business. A few changes here and there could go a long way toward solving your cash flow problems and growing your bottom line. Happy cleaning!

For more information about the Prescott Chamber of Commerce, please visit www.prescott.org or call us at 928-445-2000 or 800-266-7534, or stop by the Visitor Information Center at 117 W. Goodwin St., Prescott, AZ 86303.

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

Enjoy the Great Outdoors in Prescott Valley

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

Some of the best days can be spent outdoors right here in Prescott Valley, where nature and community coexist for a nurturing and satisfying experience.

One of my favorites is Mountain Valley Park; 69 acres of land located in the middle of Prescott Valley. And while it has great amenities such as the outdoor aquatic center, dog park, play equipment and the skate park, I am always drawn to the Urban Forest/ Yavapai Lakes.

The lakes with their water features sit on 12 acres surrounded by an all-accessible walking path and are home to a variety of waterfowl, fish and other wildlife. Many of the 100 trees at the Urban Forest have been donated in remembrance for special people or events, and a nearby kiosk displays commemorative plaques. The two lakes have been added to the Arizona Game and Fish Community Fishing Program; they are stocked and fishing is permitted. A valid fishing license is required for those older than 10.

On any given morning people are here walking their dogs, getting exercise for themselves or just plain enjoying being outdoors. There are several of us who make this our weekly Sunday “back to nature” morning and enjoy this wonderful recreational opportunity no matter what time of the year. I always like to remind people to not feed bread to the ducks but to use grapes, peas or worms instead. The Urban Forest/Yavapai Lakes are located at 8700 Lakeshore Drive.

Not too far down the road is Fain Park, an-

other beautiful oasis in the heart of Prescott Valley. This 100-acre land parcel was donated by the Fain family to the citizens of Prescott Valley and is home to many recreational activities including hiking, fishing and gold panning. All trails are easy to moderate and consist of several looping and connecting trails.

The lake is stocked with trout, and a valid fishing license is required for those older than 10. Additionally, the park includes a replica 1890s gold rush town (Massick’s), the Fitzmaurice Ruin archaeological site, and a historical mining display. Bring a picnic; spend a day in the beautiful outdoors right here in your own backyard!

The Town of Prescott Valley hosts an annu-

al Gold Fever Day along with Badges and Bobbers sponsored by the Prescott Valley Police Department. This is a celebration of our mining history with a free fishing day for the kids. More information on this great event can be found at www.pvaz.net/292/Parks-Recreation. Fain Park is located on Fifth Street just off of Second Street near Highway 69.

And if you are feeling a little more restless and want to get farther out into nature, visit the Mingus Mountain Recreation Area, Lynx Lake Recreation Area, Glassford Hill Summit Trail and the Iron King Trail.

Whether you are looking for a morning walk, hike, day trip or more there is plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities right here in Prescott Valley. Get out and enjoy!

The Latest Trends in Digital Marketing

by Donna Werking, Owner, Northern AZ Social, LLC

At one time, data-driven marketing like voice search engine optimization and artificial intelligence were considered far-fetched concepts. In 2020, these pioneering marketing trends are being used by growing companies as a standard approach to their marketing strategies. Here are our top three growing trends in marketing for 2020.

Chatbots: A chatbot is a piece of software that conducts a conversation via auditory or textual methods. Many customers choose to engage with chatbots because they are responsive 24/7, give answers promptly, are accurate and never lose patience. These virtual assistants offer a high level of customer service by meeting expectations and automating tasks.

Many brands already use chatbot technology, including Starbucks, Dominos and Lyft. Oracle found in a survey that 80% of businesses desire chatbots for e-commerce in 2020. If your business revenue is driven

by online sales, this is a marketing avenue you may want to explore.

Influencer marketing: This form of social media marketing involves endorsements and product placement from influencers, people and organizations who have a purported expert level of knowledge or social influence in their field. A prime example is Verizon’s famous “Can you hear me now?” guy who switched to Sprint. The company has collaborated with musicians, entrepreneurs and actors to gain the attention of a massive audience.

So, can you execute influencer marketing on a local level? Absolutely! There are many influencers who have acclaimed notoriety in smaller demographics. They are often seen on multiple social media channels and are very engaged in community events. Who would you partner with to promote your local brand?

Content marketing: Content marketing is a form of marketing focused on creating,

publishing and distributing content for a targeted audience online and continues to dominate SEO in 2020. In 2019, Google updated its search algorithm. This included the new BERT system, which aids Google in its efforts to understand people’s natural search behaviors. Our advice? Keep blogging and provide engaging content on your websites. Also, try interactive content in your strategy. Ninety-one percent of buyers are seeking interactive content because it’s fresh and original.

Keeping up with the latest trends in marketing can be difficult, even for a marketing agency. A few helpful tips: Be sure to know your competition; understand how your competitors market and sell their products or services; set up trend alerts using RSS feeds and social media; read industry news; and continue to network and get your customers’ feedback.

Fact Source: SingleGrain.com

The ROX Interview (continued)

...continued from page 29

generals. Here I am, a first lieutenant, being waited on.

PRESCOTT LIVING: Did you go back and tell your commander about this?

DAVID HAMILTON: Oh, I told my colonel I had lunch with Gen. Patton. He looked at me and said ‘Hamilton, only you, only you.’ I’ve never forgotten his look on his face when he said, ‘Only you.’

PRESCOTT LIVING: Who taught you to dance, Dave?

DAVID HAMILTON: Fred Astaire.

PRESCOTT LIVING: How did that happen?

DAVID HAMILTON: Dad and my uncle — my dad’s kid brother — scheduled the Astaires, Fred and Adele. They used to open shows in London. Dad would fly over from Paris to London for the opening. And they set up the families with banks to save them money and invest.

PRESCOTT LIVING: Fred Astaire physically taught you to dance?

DAVID HAMILTON: That and I took lessons at the same time. In the front hall of our house in Beverly Hills. 1935, I was what? 13? 12?

PRESCOTT LIVING: I understand you also knew the famed British actor David Niven.

DAVID HAMILTON: (laughs) David Niven, who was a captain in the British Territorial Special Intelligence Forces. I knew him because dad had seen quite a bit of the Nivens in Hollywood the three years when dad was out there. He was charged by the bank of selling RKO. He finally sold it to Howard Hughes.

But back to David Niven. He was walking down the flight line by my plane one time when we were in France. He recognized me. I looked at him and I said, ‘Capt. Niven?’ And he said ‘Yes.’ I said, ‘I’m Pete Hamilton’s boy.’ He said, ‘I heard your dad got the big gong.’ Which in British terms, the big medal — Medal of Honor.

And I said, ’Yes sir he did. He’s back in the Pentagon building safe and sound.’ Niven said, ‘Well I’m delighted to hear it. Give him my best when you talk to him, or write to him.’

So I said, ‘What’s your story?’ He said, ‘Well, I’m trying to get back to London. I’ve completed my liaison mission here. I’ve got orders to go back by LCT, a ship.’

I said, ‘Would you like to get back a little

sooner? I’ll get you back to London tonight.’ He said, ‘Wonderful. I’ll buy you the best steak dinner in New York after the war.’

Some 20 odd years later, I walked into Club 21 in New York. David Niven with his new wife was there. I see Niven sitting in the corner. For some reason his eyes and my eyes meet, an immediate recognition. The head waiter came over and said, ‘Your dinner tonight is on Mr. Niven.’

PRESCOTT LIVING: Tell us how you came to be selected for the Pathfinder Elite pilot program when you were in England.

DAVID HAMILTON: I had been flying and delivering troops and military supplies and materials all over Africa and southern Europe. Finally we get to England. We’re flying about a month. The colonel calls me, says, ‘Hamilton, we’ve been reviewing all the flying time. Next to your squadron commander, who was a TWA captain, you have more instrument time than anybody else in the room.’

I said, ‘Well, sir, I had a private pilot’s license, and I used to spend $25 an hour for a Link Trainer. When I got in the Air Force and found it was free, I took advantage of

it.’ I had over 100 hours in a Link Trainer. I was a first lieutenant. And they said, ‘Well, Hamilton, colonel’s going to send you to Pathfinder School. You’ll go through Pathfinder School starting in February.’ This was February ‘44. I was 21. Two requirements in Pathfinder. One, the colonel tears your instrument card up. He said, ‘I’ll give you a new instrument card when I fly with you before D-Day.’ I had no idea what that would mean. He said, ‘In addition, there’s a second requirement. You’re gonna be required to jump in practice with the troops you’re going to drop in combat.’ We had to jump with the paratroopers. They’re on an RAF base. This is top secret.

PRESCOTT LIVING: How many Pathfinders were there?

DAVID HAMILTON: Total of 20 crews. The military said, ‘Well maybe we better figure out how to get the paratroopers where they’re supposed to be.’ So the Army looked around, and said, ‘Hey, you know those British dudes? They got these guys called Pathfinders, and the Pathfinders

continued on page 118...

COVID-19: (aka Coronavirus)

• Fever

• Dry cough

• Severe shortness of breath

• Symptoms appear in 2-14 days

COLD:

• Mild fever, if any

• Cough

FLU:

• Mild fever, if any

• Dry cough

• Sore or scratchy throat

• Runny & stuffy nose

• Headaches

• Sore or scratchy throat

• Runny & stuffy nose

• Muscle or body aches

• Chills

• Possible vomiting or diarrhea

A CENTURY AGO, IN 1918...

‘Spanish Flu’ Strikes an Unsuspecting Northern Arizona

It’s unlikely anyone remembers the Fall of 1918. Gauze masks were the fashion statement of the day as Influenza struck an unsuspecting Northern Arizona –the same devastating flu virus that was consuming the world. Overshadowed by events of World War I and subsequent global conflicts, many of today’s citizenry –worried about a virulent strain of Covid-19 (coronavirus) – have never heard about the 1918 influenza outbreak that was one of the quickest and deadliest events in history.

There had been other “flu” outbreaks – Hong Kong, Asian, and others – yet none was as traumatic as the

Charles Kinsman (inset above) and Frank Wilson recover from the 1918 influenza in Mayer. Hospital tents and patients were staged outdoors on the grassy field during the 1918 Spanish Flu pandemic mammals

1918 epidemic. Also known as “Spanish flu,” Influenza was a zoonotic disease that affected birds and mamalls prior to jumping species to humans. The disease was spread through coughing, sneezing, and even breathing.

The illness spread and developed at a horrifying rate with many becoming ill in the morning and dead by nightfall. Early symptoms were similar to those of a bad cold; therefore many did not know they had the flu until it was too late.

patients literally drowning from fluid accumulation in their lungs. The pandemic of 1918 hit the world killing more people overall than both world wars combined.

The first cases locally were noted on October 2, at the U.S. Army Hospital at Fort Whipple. Eight cases developed in a group of invalid soldiers who had recently arrived from Fort Dodge, Iowa. Due to the highly infectious nature of the illness, the fort was quarantined immediately. By October 8, the entire city of Prescott was under quarantine, with more than 40 cases reported. Hard hit were children with 125 high school students stricken.

Emergency measures included a makeshift hospital ward in the domestic science hall at the high school, a tent city for recovery was created, and hospital beds were laid out in open spaces. Many teachers at the high school were also included in the running of the hospital, and there was a major concern about the availability of nursing personnel.

The Influenza pandemic continued through December 1918, prior to tapering off and eventually ending. The illness was a major psycholgical trauma to the population of the world.

This year is somewhat reminiscent of that terrible time more than a century ago, as we have a particularly virulent type of virus hitting many. This, too, shall pass.

Parts of this Sharlot Hall Museum Days Past article were originally published in Jan. 2004.

THE PRESCOTT PIONEER

PRESCOTT • PRESCOTT VALLEY • CHINO VALLEY • DEWEY-HUMBOLDT

County Superintendent of Schools Honored

Yavapai County Superintendent of Schools Tim Carter was selected as recipient of the prestigious Barbara Robey Award for Lifetime Achievement by the Arizona School Board Association during its annual winter conference.

Carter was praised for his more than 50 years of service to public education.

During the Scottsdale meeting, board members praised Carter for his longtime and dedicated service to students, teachers, the greater community and the state of Arizona.

Following an appointment by Gov. Doug Ducey and confirmation by the Arizona Senate, Carter served as a member of the Arizona State School Board of Education, where he served as vice president and president.

Carter has been Yavapai County Superintendent of Schools since July of 2005. Since then, he has been selected by voters in every election. He directs educational services to 26 school districts, 24 charter schools and 102 school campuses around the county.

Prior to being county super-

intendent, Carter had been a teacher, assistant principal and then principal of Prescott High School, where he worked from 1979 until he retired in 2003. He then taught college and university level courses for Yavapai College and the University of Phoenix.

He was elected to the Hall of Fame by Grand Canyon University in 2017.

The Tombstone native grew up on a ranch until he attended Grand Canyon University, where he was a star athlete. He later earned a graduate degree at Northern Arizona University. He holds certifications from the University of Phoenix. Before moving to Prescott, Carter had taught and coached in the White Mountains.

He has many other honors and recognitions, including being named 2010 Educational Leader of the Year for Public Policy. He also has been named Arizona School Administrator of the Year. In 2018, Carter was selected for the AdvancED Circle of Excellence.

Married to Linda, a former teacher, he has two adult children,

daughter Cierra and son Levi. He has one grandson, Skyler.

In accepting the award, Carter said, “I have had the honor of

gas and electricity. They must be capable of being totally independent from outside resources.

Just finished in mid-March was construction of an employee parking lot on the former Miller Valley Elementary School property at 900 W. Iron Springs Road.

Boush said YRMC’s expansion of health care facilities and programs is supported solely through patient revenue and generous contributions from individuals, businesses and corporations and foundations.

No tax monies are involved.

Boush said approximately 2,000 people are employed by YRMC at its campuses in Prescott Valley and Prescott. That includes the YRMC’s medical staff of more than 400 credentialed providers, a nursing staff and the hundreds of others who handle administrative, physical, business and operations. In addition, more than 700 people from the Quad Cities volunteer to spend time at both campuses

More details are available at www.yrmc.org.

of Arc Fabrication LLC. It is anticipated the archways will be in place by the end of June, said Tyler Goodman, assistant to the city manager. It was emphasized the archways will provide clearance up to 16 feet for vehicles such as delivery and garbage.

The city and business community want to make the alley more user-friendly and appealing to pedestrians. Other enhancements under discus-

working with family and fellow elected officials and educational servants throughout Arizona. It has been a humbling experience.”

sion include resurfacing the alleyway and cleaning up various stains and smirches that currently discolor the area. Also planned are more overhead lights and some neon lighting, especially near the city parking garage.

Funds to pay for the archways are from two city sources: $40,000 in bed tax funds generated by hotel taxes and shortterm rentals, and $21,250 in city street funds.

Exciting events and striking scenery in the Greater Prescott area!

City of Prescott Mayor’s Commission on

by Dr . Billie Orr, Mayor Pro Tem, City of Prescott and Lori Kennedy, Communications Coordinator, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

In 2017, Gallup-Sharecare published the State of American Well-Being series* examining the well-being of communities across the nation and issued a report ranking 186 communities based on their well-being index. The report analyzed communities across five elements of well-being:

• Career Well-being (Purpose): How you occupy your time/liking what you do each day.

• Social Well-being: Relationships and love in your life.

• Financial Well-being: Managing your economic life to reduce stress and increase security.

• Physical Well-being: Good health and

enough energy to get things done on a daily basis.

• Community Well-being: Engagement and involvement in the area where you live.

The City of Prescott ranked #9 of the 186 in overall well-being. For the five elements, Prescott ranked: Purpose-#17, Social-#9, Financial-#7, Physical-#20 and Community-#4.

That was all it took to put Mayor ProTem Dr. Billie Orr on a path that would lead to creation of the Mayor’s Commission on Well-Being.

“This initiative is designed to create positive, educational experiences for residents of Prescott, using our resources and best practices to promote healthier and happier lives for multiple generations of our city’s residents,” explained Dr. Orr. “Creating this Commission has been a goal of mine for two years. We are blessed to have these talented Commissioners willing to serve our community,” she added.

The focus is on the citizens of Prescott –those who live, learn, work and play in our fine community. The efforts of the Commission are to utilize best practices and all that Prescott has to offer to encourage a healthy,

connected community and establish Prescott as the premier city of well-being in America.

To achieve these goals it will require partnerships, bringing Prescottonians and local businesses together to support initiatives and corral resources. Communication will be a key component to the Commission’s success. Creative messaging through education and engagement will encourage residents’ participation in events and activities.

“Prescott already has amazing wellness resources,” commented Chair John Murphy. “One of our first objectives is to ‘amplify’ the message for existing programs, businesses and community leaders. In addition, we plan to communicate to and motivate our fellow citizens to take action to improve their personal health. I believe Prescott can be the premier city of well-being in America, and this is the path to accomplish that goal. It’s very exciting,” he concluded.

One of the first actions of the Commission is to hear from the citizens of Prescott. The team is currently creating a survey to share with residents to solicit comments on what aspects of health and wellness are most important to them. These survey responses will inform how the Commission will design

Well-Being

Our Vision

To become the premier city of well-being in America.

Our Mission

To engage the citizens who live, learn, work and play in Prescott in the lifelong pursuit of well-being through communication, motivation and action.

programs, events and services to fulfill our vision and mission.

Prescott is Everybody’s Hometown – a community that thrives on supporting and caring for each other. Well-being is a lifelong commitment and the intent of the Commission is to foster a culture of health and wellness and set good principles for lifelong well-being for our residents.

Commission meetings are held at City Hall and open to the public. Contact Kelly Tolbert at kelly.tolbert@prescott-az.gov for dates and times of meetings.

*https://wellbeingindex.sharecare.com/wp-content/ uploads/2018/03/Gallup-Sharecare-State-of-American-Well-Being_2017-Community-Rankings_vFINAL.pdf

Commission

on Well-Being Members

Council Liaison; and Kelly Tolbert, Staff Liaison. Jesse Burke is not pictured.

John Murphy, Commission Chair, founded “Make 100 Healthy” to educate and motivate people to take tangible actions to increase their well-being as they age. He encourages folks to garden and eat wholesome foods.

Peg Travers, Commission Vice-Chair, is a retired RN, meditation teacher and founder of Prescott Pickleball Association. Peg serves as the Chair of the Prescott’s Advisory Board for Parks & Recreation.

Jesse Burke is a veteran, pastor at a local church, and owns several businesses in Prescott. He is involved in Prescott Area Leadership and serves on the boards of 10:10 Ministries and Agape House.

Kristy Everson and her husband own and operate Mandalay Homes. A student at Prescott College, Kristy is passionate about the environment and leads the City’s Granite Creek Corridor Restoration Project.

Terri Farneti is program coordinator of Public Health for Yavapai County Health Services. She is the public information officer for Yavapai County Health and leads the county’s Community Health Improvement Partnership quarterly meetings with over 50 health partners.

Cecelia Jernegan is the director of sales and marketing for Forest Villas Hotel. She has been involved in many nonprofits over the past 25 years in the Prescott region, networking and connecting people and resources.

Vickie Johnston is the owner and manager of H2O Health at Gateway Mall. She has traveled to over 25 countries researching water and food while teaching others how to obtain and maintain good health.

Lori Kennedy is the communications coordinator for Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. She has worked in the hospitality industry for 30 years and was an active participant in the explosive growth of the health and wellness industry.

Bonnie McMinn is a certified Pilates, Posture and NeuroKinetic Therapy instructor. A sales and marketing professional for over 30 years, Bonnie is involved in the League of Women Voters, Southwest Wine Center and the Hungry Kids Project.

Kelly Tolbert, Commission Staff Liaison, is the City’s Parks & Recreation Coordinator. She has her Masters in Recreation and Tourism and is passionate about good nutrition and outdoor opportunities for excellent health.

Dr. Billie Orr, Commission Council Liaison, is Prescott’s mayor pro tem. She is committed to facilitating opportunities for citizens to be connected to a community of well-being. Billie serves on the boards of Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters, Prescott Western Heritage Center, the Phippen Museum, Read On Prescott, Republican Women of Prescott and Arizona Town Hall.

CHRONICLE ARTS WE SPECIALIZE IN CREATING FILMS ABOUT YOU.

by Chris DeFord and Lisa DeLeo

What if you could see and hear your ancestors tell your family story?

You can give this gift to your future generations.

People take more photos and videos than ever before. But precious memories are often destroyed when phones are lost and computers crash.

We created Chronicle Arts because we truly love the art of filmmaking and storytelling.

We believe that reflecting on our lives is a rewarding and transformational process for the storyteller and listener. Knowing where we’ve come from can positively impact our future.

Our films are professionally directed, shot, edited, archived and sharable. We make the entire process an easy and enjoyable experience for you.

It all starts with a no-cost, no-obligation meeting to discover your story and goals. Together, we create an outline for your film.

During the film shoot, we interview you in a comfortable location. Everything is relaxed and fun. We can include your family photos in the film, adding wonderful historical value and perspective.

You’ll receive an archival high-definition digital file of the edited film as well as Blu-Ray or DVD copies to share with your loved ones and future generations. Or create your own private website to share.

Preserve your history and create a timeless family heirloom.

Be remembered.

Give us a call at 928-756-7474 or send us an email at info@chronicle-arts.com today.

“We Treat You Like Our

About Dr. A

Dr. Hojat Askari, or “Dr. A” as many of his patients and friends call him, is the founder and medical director of Thumb Butte Medical Center at 3124 Willow Creek Road, Prescott, AZ.

The 30,000-square-foot state-of-theart multispecialty medical clinics was the dream of his father who wanted medical clinics to serve people in need.

Today, Dr. Askari’s Thumb Butte Medical Center, employs over 20 medical professionals, both full-time and part-time doctors, specializing in family medicine, internal medicine, cardiology, allergy treatment, and foot and ankle surgery.

Prescott: 3124 Willow Creek Road Prescott, AZ 86301 928-445-7085

Prescott Valley: 6946 E. Hwy 69 Prescott Valley, AZ 86314 928-775-9007

Chino Valley: 87 South Route 89 Chino Valley, AZ 86323 928-208-4309

Our Mission at Thumb Butte Medical Center

“Our mission is to provide excellent and accessible medical care. We treat our patients with the utmost respect, dignity and honesty in a healing environment. I have emphasized to each of the doctors who work at Thumb Butte Medical Center that all patients are to be treated like their own family. We have gathered an excellent team of exceptionally qualified medical doctors of various specialties and we are all honored to be a part of your health care.”

– Hojat Askari, M.D., Board Certified Internal Medicine, Medical Director

Family”

If he could, Dr. Hojat Askari would give everyone he cares about a hug — that would be everyone in Yavapai County.

For now, his arms are spread out for “air hugs” as he works to figure out the best ways to help his greater family fight the COVID19 pandemic.

As medical director, and an internal medicine specialist, at Prescott’s Thumb Butte Medical Center & Urgent Care, his “I love you, I love you all” philosophy (and his greetings whenever he appears in public) continues to be his mainstay.

“We are deeply involved in taking care of you today and in your future wellness.” As the medical field as a whole grapples with the exponentially growing numbers of cases and deaths, he looks to what can be done locally and what connections can be made to help everyone.

“We should be prepared for a pandemic here in Prescott and hotels need to be called into service to quarantine patients,” he says. “House calls are being made and telemedicine is available 24 hours a day to take care of you.”

He recommends anything catering to the public should be shut down for as many hours as possible.

Askari is working with labs to figure out how to get results as soon as possible so that he or his team can quickly determine whether a person should rest at home, be given appropriate prescriptions or be sent to the hospital. Speed is important in lining up these tools, he says. “It’s about saving the community.”

“I think, ‘What would I do for my mother, father if they were sick?’ What would I do?” he says. So, he is working to figure out ways to “attack this problem as fast as we can, rather than have regrets.” He isn’t the kind of guy who waits around for others to take action; he jumps in.

He knows people are afraid, the economy is at risk. His actions are “because we do not want to be the No. 1 mortality city.”

“High temperatures, tightness in the chest, serve shortness of breath, dry cough, these high-risk people would be tested first,” he

says. His medical center has a pharmacy on site — locally owned Thumb Butte Pharmacy with free delivery — or prescriptions can be called in elsewhere, he says.

His three clinics — Prescott, Prescott Valley and a newly opened one in Chino Valley — are all set up to do COVID-19 testing.

Isn’t he concerned about getting ill?

“My blood isn’t any different than my patients. If I get it, I’ll survive, self quarantine and get in another doctor to replace me,” he says. “We want to save our community. We have been working very hard for our community.”

It might not be a surprise then that the doctor’s motto for his medical center is: “We treat you like our family.” Five minutes with this man, and one knows that the tradition of caring for family is just who he is and is woven throughout his thinking and behavior.

Askari started out in Prescott over 10 years ago making house calls. Over the years he has grown his multispecialty medical center, which is now staffed with 20 medical professionals specializing in family medicine, internal medicine, cardiology, allergy treatment, podiatry, dermatology, urology, chronic pain management, gastroenterology, radiology center coming soon, and neurology coming soon.

Askari says it’s his time to give back to the community.

“It’s for our mothers, fathers, sisters and families. We are in this together.”

“Love you all. Amen.”

Don’t Panic!

At Thumb Butte Medical we treat you like our family. Come in and see us for a COVID19 test. We accept most major insurances. Don’t have insurance? No problem; we will still see you.

Testing available 7 days a week (weekends included) 7 a.m.-9 p.m.

Thumb Butte Medical Center — Prescott Location Board Certified Physicians

3124 Willow Creek Road, Prescott, AZ 86301 928-445-7085

www.thumbbuttemedicalcenter.com

Traffickers often target youth who are vulnerable, such as runaways, kids in foster care or the homeless

Sex Trafficking: See Something, Say Something

by Sheila Polk, Yavapai County Attorney

In the small community of Dewey, Yavapai County’s drug task force executed a search warrant based on tips that the house was a drug trafficking operation. Neighbors had reported frequent vehicular traffic marked by short stays and the residency of numerous young adults. Indeed, during the search several marijuana grows were discovered and drug operations uncovered. Amidst the action, one detective noticed a young woman sitting off to the side, her body language closed and apprehensive. This detective, an officer with the Prescott Valley Police Department, had recently attended sex trafficking training. He approached the woman and quietly asked, “Do you need help?” The young woman looked up, eyes filled with fear, and whispered, “Yes.”

The detective led the woman to an isolated corner where he quickly pieced together her story, a wretched tale that began in Ohio with a descent into homelessness and resulted in the abysmal life of sex trafficking. The woman was transported to the Yavapai Family Advocacy Center, additional interviews were conducted, and the sex trafficking ring controlled by two pimps was unraveled.

lives of several women, all victims of the operation, emerged. Some were underage, some were young adults. All were repeatedly forced to perform sex acts, called “tricks,”—upwards of ten each night—and transported to upscale hotel rooms in the Phoenix area to service their “clients.” Ads featuring the scantily clad women ran on websites, “dates” arranged via texts, and the money turned over to the pimps at the conclusion of each trick. Drugs were frequently used to control the women and, when needed, physical force and violence. The women were controlled with promises of love— such pimps are called “Romeos”—or violence, called “Gorilla Pimps.” All the money was kept by the traffickers and the women were provided only the basics. At trial, both traffickers were found guilty and are now serving lengthy prison sentences.

This case went to trial in a Yavapai County superior courtroom in the fall of 2019. Details of the

There was a time when I believed sex trafficking was something that happened in far-off places. In reality, it occurs throughout the United States, even in idyllic places like our county. Traffickers often target youth who are vulnerable, such as run-aways, kids in foster care or the homeless, wooing victims into what feels like a loving and caring relationship. Traffickers work to establish bonds of trust, buying them gifts, a place to stay, and shower them with affection to psychologically manipulate them. This is called “love bombing.”

Drugs often play a role in sex trafficking situations, sometimes as a way to cope; some victims enter “the life” to support a drug habit. Victims are taught to distrust law enforcement and government services due to fear of arrest. Coached to lie to nurses and other health professionals, they often give fabricated histories with scripted stories when presented with opportunities for rescue. Traffickers frequently use the threat of violence and harm to the victims’ loved ones as a means of control.

Victims often do not see themselves as victims and may feel shame, self–blame and feelings of unworthiness of a better life. Complicated by “trauma bonds” that are difficult to break, the path to recovery for someone who has experienced this life can be long and arduous. In our case, the Yavapai Family Advocacy Center offers therapy, counseling and services to the women to help restore them to a better life.

Each of us can help fight sex trafficking. Be aware of the signs and report suspicious activity.

See something, say something.

WIC in a Click Brings Nutrition Information to Families

by Leslie Horton, Director, Yavapai County Community Health Services

The Yavapai County Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is now making learning about healthy eating habits more accessible through video conferencing technology.

The new program, WIC in a Click, allows people to participate in follow-up appointments in the comfort of their home, on a break at work, or anywhere they have access to the internet. They simply need to download a free app and call to request a virtual appointment. Once the virtual appointment is requested, they have the flexibility of meeting one-on-one with a WIC staff member or participating in a group session with other parents.

The Yavapai County WIC program serves to safeguard the health of low-income pregnant, postpartum, and breastfeeding women, infants and children up to age 5 who are at nutrition risk. Providing nutritious foods to supplement diets and education on healthy eating tailored to the needs of the participant is a cornerstone of the WIC program. We also encourage and support breastfeeding along with referrals to health care.

WIC-authorized foods include infant cereal, baby foods, iron-fortified adult cereal, fruits and vegetables, vitamin C-rich fruits or vegetable juice, eggs, milk, cheese, yogurt, soybased beverages, tofu, peanut butter, dried and canned bean/peas, canned fish, whole wheat bread and other whole-grain options. At each WIC appointment, families receive education to make knowledgeable decisions about their health and nutrition that can have a lasting impact on each family’s lives. Every family has unique questions and concerns regarding their family’s health and nutritional well-being. Our nutrition education specialists are trained on common questions

and concerns including: picky eating, family meals, increasing fruit and vegetable intake, limiting sugary drinks, whole grains, weaning from a bottle, and many more.

We encourage all families to eat at least five fruits and vegetables each day to receive important nutrients such as Vitamin A, C, E and K. All of these nourish growing bodies and help them develop healthy and strong. Our philosophy encompasses not only consuming whole foods but to be physically active. Adults should be physically active for at least 30 minutes per day and children one hour per day, at least five days a week. Eating whole foods and being physically active are important components of a healthy lifestyle and encourage the prevention of illness and disease. Through health education resources, we can set the framework for a lifestyle that

empowers families to make the best choices for each member of their family.

Everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive, and WIC offers the support to help each family with individual goals. To meet the demands of today’s busy lifestyle, WIC in a Click provides a unique option for families to receive services, support and health education. Through virtual services, we minimize the hardships of time spent driving, expense of gas and save time for our families to do what is most important, to be a family.

As the common African proverb states, “It takes a village to raise a child.” We want to be a part of that village to help families thrive and get the support they need.

To learn more about WIC in a Click please call 928-771-3138.

Blushing Cactus Photography Page 70 Bowen’s Botanicals Page 71 Debi Walker Permanent Cosmetic Page 70 Hair by Joey Page 64 Prescott Flower Shop Page 64

Prescott Outpatient Surgical Center Page 66 Purple Clover Boutique Page 71

Raskin’s Jewelers Page 67

Rogers Academy of Beauty Page 65

Scarlett’s Curated Collection Page 67

Scottsdale Plastic Surgery Page 61

Thumb Butte Medical Center Page 68

Wilson Aesthetics Beauty & Wellness Page 62

have the best possible care available.

Invest Your Healthcare Dollars Wisely!

Convenient • Friendly • Helpful • Caring • Affordable

Over the past 30 years, POSC has saved patients more than $150 Million! Of that amount, $20 Million would have been out of pocket.

Dr. Siamak Rassadi

Overall Patient Satisfaction: 9.8 out of 10!

Dr. Katie Campuzano 778-4300

Dr. Adam Feingold 776-8428

Dr. Luis Fernandez 776-8428

The choice is yours. Choose one of our excellent Prescott based surgeons for your outpatient surgical needs. You will save money and have the best possible care available.

“The best I have experienced! POSC even topped Duke Medical Center which I have always rated highly. Thanks to the staff.”

Overall Patient Satisfaction: 9.8 out of 10!

“Everything about the place was excellent. Very clean, very professional, very organized and efficient. Thank you for the great care!”

“The best I have experienced! POSC even topped Duke Medical Center which I have always rated highly. Thanks to the staff.”

“Everything about the place was excellent. Very clean, very professional, very organized and efficient. Thank you for the great care!”

“Everyone was awesome. My stress level was zero! Loved the nurses. Linda was so sweet and really awesome. Great experience overall. Thank you all!”

Dr. Jonathon Gruneich 778-9770

Invest Your Healthcare Dollars Wisely!

“Everyone was awesome. My stress level was zero! Loved the nurses. Linda was so sweet and really awesome. Great experience overall. Thank you all!”

Dr. Bradley Benson 445-4818

Dr. J. Gabriel Tsang 237-9312

Dr. Josephine Kim 583-1000

Dr. Melinda Martin 777-0070

Dr. Richard Ohanesian 778-4300

Dr. Jeffrey Osburn 778-4300

Dr. Jeanette Pilotte 583-7887

INTERVENTIONAL PAIN SPECIALISTS

Dr. Jonathon Gruneich 778-9770

Dr. Bradley Benson 445-4818

Dr. J. Gabriel Tsang 237-9312

ORTHOPAEDIC SPECIALISTS

CARDIOLOGIST

Dr. Daniel Burchfield 778-9250

Patient Satisfaction 9.9 out of 10! Invest Your Healthcare Dollars Wisely! Invest Your Healthcare Dollars Wisely!

Dr. Siamak Rassadi 308-4285

Dr. Bertrand Kaper 778-9250

Dr. Judah Pifer 778-9250

Over the past 31 years 114,000 procedures have been successfully performed at POSC, saving patients more than $160 million! Of that amount, $21 million would have been out of pocket expenses.

Invest Your Healthcare Dollars

Over the past 30 years, POSC has saved patients more than $150 Million! Of that amount, $20 Million would have been out of pocket.

Over the past 31 years 114,000 procedures have been successfully performed at POSC, saving patients more than $160 million! Of that amount, $21 million would have been out of pocket expenses.

The choice is yours. Choose one of our excellent Prescott based surgeons for your outpatient surgical needs and you will not only save money, but will have the best possible environment and care available.

“When I need surgical help, I will always come here. My phone call from Karen was a real delight. When I saw her in recovery I told her she sounded like a song. My anesthesiologist was just great and took time with my questions. I really liked my visit!”

ORTHOPAEDIC SPECIALISTS

Dr. Daniel Burchfield 778-9250

Dr. Bertrand Kaper 778-9250

Dr. Judah Pifer 778-9250

EAR, NOSE AND THROAT

Dr. Bradley Williams 445-7085

“When I need surgical help, I will always come here. My phone call from Karen was a real delight. When I saw her in recovery I told her she sounded like a song. My anesthesiologist was just great and took time with my questions. I really liked my visit!”

Dr. Bradley Williams 445-7085

The choice is yours. Choose one of our excellent Prescott based surgeons for your outpatient surgical needs. You will

have the best possible care available.

The choice is yours. Choose one of our excellent Prescott based surgeons for your outpatient surgical needs and you will not only save money, but will have the best possible environment and care available.

Dr. Derek Hewitt 778-9190

Dr. Mark Strasser 778-9190

“Thank you for all the great care you gave me, everyone was awesome made me feel like I was the most important person in there! Thank you all so very much for taking care of me.”

PLASTIC SURGEON

Dr. Brian Brantner 776-0325

PLASTIC SURGEON

Dr. Brian Brantner 776-0325

“Thank you all for the great care you gave me, everyone was awesome made me feel like I was the most important person in there day! Thank you all so very much for taking care of me.”

PHYSICAL MEDICINE

GENERAL SURGEONS

Dr. Thomas Hirasa 771-1011

“Joanne the pre-op nurse is awesome, really made me feel at ease. The head anesthesiologist was really terrific and put me completely at ease.”

PHYSICAL MEDICINE

Dr. Bradley Benson 445-4818

SPINE SPECIALIST

Dr. Daniel Noble 778-9250

UROLOGISTS

Dr. Bradley Benson 445-4818

Dr. Donald Huang 771-1011

Dr. Frank Iorio 776-8212

“Joanne the pre-op nurse is awesome, really made me feel at ease. The head anesthesiologist was really terrific and put me completely at ease.”

Dr. Thomas Rusing 445-9660

“This was my 2nd surgery at POSC in 2 months. Both times I received excellent care. Everyone was professional, courteous and all had a great sense of humor. I cannot think of any area that needs improving as I feel 10’s were to be given to everyone there.”

Dr. Paul Nguyen 771-5282

SPINE SPECIALIST

Dr. Daniel Noble 778-9250

GYNECOLOGISTS

“This was my 2nd surgery at POSC in 2 months. Both times I received excellent care. Everyone was professional, courteous and all had a great sense of humor. I cannot think of any area that needs improving as I feel 10’s were to be given to everyone there.”

Dr. Jeffrey Sanwick 771-5282

Dr. Michael Stanick 771-5282

Dr. Katie Campuzano 778-4300

UROLOGISTS

Dr. Adam Feingold 776-8428

Dr. Paul Nguyen 771-5282

Dr. Luis Fernandez 776-8428

Dr. Jeffrey Sanwick 771-5282

Dr. Josephine Kim 583-1000

Dr. Michael Stanick 771-5282

Dr. Melinda Martin 777-0070

Dr. Richard Ohanesian 778-4300

Dr. Jeffrey Osburn 778-4300

•

Special Section:

Galleries

Prescott is a smallish town steeped in frontier legends and Western imagery, yet has a thriving art gallery scene with a wide range of media, styles and techniques. Some feature work from preeminent artists of the Southwest, while others serve as launching pads for up-and-comers and breakout creators. No matter what the budget, ideal artworks for everyone’s taste can be found.

ARTS PRESCOTT GALLERY

134 S. Montezuma St., Prescott: 928-776-7717

This cooperative gallery for local artists opened in 1994 and presents its pieces in a warm, inviting setting. This charming Whiskey Row storefront keeps its inventory fresh and exciting, making it the ideal place to find once-in-a-lifetime gifts for special people in your life, including yourself. Dedicated to the “shop local” philosophy, the gallery features wall art, sculptures, ceramics, jewelry and woven pieces including fabric and baskets.

IAN RUSSELL GALLERY OF FINE ART

130 S. Montezuma St., Prescott: 928-445-7009

Opened in 2007, this outlet in the historic downtown has featured artists from Greater Prescott, Northern Arizona and throughout the Southwest. Besides covering its walls and floor with one-, two- and threedimensional original pieces, it has Prescott’s only in-house giclee shop, printing highquality reproductions on canvas, tile and paper. Fine jeweler and goldsmith Geoffrey Brown has his shop set up in the back, too.

MOUNTAIN ARTISTS GUILD

228 N. Alarcon St., Prescott: 928-776-4009

A place for emerging artists of all media to stage and sell their work in a fine-art gallery setting, while learning skills such as matting, framing and display of their work in such a setting. The Main Gallery features a wall with a changing lineup of a featured artist or group of artists. All shows include at least 100 items under $100.

PHIPPEN MUSEUM OF WESTERN ART

4701 AZ-89, Prescott: 928-778-1385

Founded in honor of Western painter George Phippen, this 17,000 square-foot facility houses museum-quality Western art creations, as well as three galleries which host exhibitions and shows several times a year. Its largest event of the year is the Western Art Show and Sale, held every Memorial Day weekend at downtown’s Courthouse Plaza.

PRESCOTT’S 4TH FRIDAY ART WALK

This established monthly event has 17 participating locations throughout downtown Prescott, including galleries, studios and more destinations. Each of these presents a signature event and exhibit, with the artist always on hand. These include a huge number of artists and styles for the public to enjoy. Each walk begins 5 p.m. on the fourth Friday of the month. For more information visit www.artthe4th.com.

’TIS ART CENTER AND GALLERY

105 S. Cortez St., Prescott: 928-775-0223

This nonprofit displays affordable paintings, sculpture and other artworks from Greater Prescott creators in a museum-like space, while a comfortable parlor displays some of the finest jewelry and other wearable art in the state. Exhibits change monthly. ’Tis also sponsors art classes for children and rents classroom space for adult courses at its Art Annex building a few blocks away.

YAVAPAI COLLEGE ART GALLERY

1100 E. Sheldon St., Prescott: 928-776-2031

Offers an experience of excellence, diversity, and vitality in fine contemporary visual art. The gallery features work by Yavapai college art students, art faculty, local artists, and nationally known artists in approximately eight exhibitions each year. It has been open for over thirty years and is committed to educating its students and sharing and promoting arts in the Prescott area.

Native art exhibit brings ancient, modern techniques together

In its 11th year, the ‘Tis Journeys in Spirit 2020: Traditional and Contemporary Native Art Exhibition is a monthlong event produced in partnership with the Museum of Indigenous People.

The show is scheduled from May 14-June 23, with an opening reception with the artists 5-8 p.m. on May 22.

The Polequaptewa Dance Group from Shongopovi, Arizona, will present Pavalhik, the Hopi Water Maiden Dance, at noon May 23 in the third-floor banquet hall of the ‘Tis building, 105 S. Cortez St. Admission is free.

The arts play an integral role in Native society. Beginning at a young age, Native children are introduced to artistic mediums, including bead working, basketry, woodcarving, weaving and metalworking, as well as the crafting of musical instruments and ceremonial attire.

Color and imagery carry symbolic meaning

in Native cultures, and music and dance are considered an essential aspect of social and ceremonial gatherings. Storytelling, the oldest of all the art forms, is used to keep alive cultural history and sacred beliefs.

For many Native artists, inspiration is found in the stories, ceremonies and rituals that have been passed down to them through generations, while others are influenced by their personal experiences in the modern world, both within and outside of their tribal communities.

Journeys in Spirit 2020 spotlights the work of emerging and established artists from various Native cultures, including the Acoma, Apache, Choctaw, Dine’, Hopi, Yaqui, Yavapai and Zuni.

Curated by Hopi artist Filmer Kewanayama, the exhibit features paintings, photography, silver jewelry, katsina carvings, beaded jewelry, pottery and basketry.

in Spirit 2020 is presented with additional support from the City of Prescott and the Prescott Area Arts and Humanities Council.

Managing Recreation Opportunities UnprecedentedinTimes

by Kelly Tolbert, Recreation Coordinator, City of Prescott

Recreation is important to everyday quality of life, but when faced with large unknowns such as the COVID-19 virus outbreak taking precautions while managing to offer safe recreation opportunities is challenging. Having never experienced this in our lifetimes, parks and recreation professionals are left with intense decisions on closures, rescheduling of large group events, responsible messaging, and managing employee dynamics.

A major aspect of the social distancing philosophy is to reduce infections that can be transmitted by droplet contact (sneezing or coughing), direct physical contact, or airborne transmissions. By lessening the probability of contact between infected or exposed persons, the number of people infected and ultimately the mortality rate is reduced. Some disadvantages to social distancing are loneliness and loss of human interaction. Human interaction has a positive influence on increased physical health, boosting immune systems, more positive outlook on life, mental sharpness and overall longevity of life.

Open air spaces may seem like the natural no-brainer cure for socializing during times of infectious disease scares. While passive recreation is important for physical health and boosting immune systems, germs can remain active on surfaces for several days it seems. This includes door handles, playground equipment, picnic tables, trash cans, and basically any surface that can be touched. Parks departments vary in approaches taken to limit possible transmis-

sion including closing entire parks, limited closures of facilities within parks (restrooms, visitor centers, and campgrounds), and even going as far as to waive parking or entrance fees to encourage usage.

In a time where social connections are already facing decline, it is more important that people feel the benefits of meaningful connections while keeping safe physical distance. Social connection is a primal human need and has been shown to improve performance of the cardiovascular, endocrine and immune systems which all can assist in reducing the risk in contracting illness as well as aiding the ability to fight symptoms. While faced with this current pandemic, it is perhaps more important than ever to care not only for yourself but maintain these social connections which may involve getting creative. Thankfully, Prescott has plenty

of opportunities to be with friends while maintaining the recommended six feet of distance between yourself and anyone else. Over one hundred miles of multipurpose trails are easily accessed essentially from our backyards. Take them by foot, bicycle or horseback and invite a friend or family member to join along. Antelope Hills Golf Course offers 36 holes over two courses with special rates depending on when you want to play. Watson Lake has bocce ball courts as well as 18 holes of disc golf available for use during lake hours. Fishing from the shore is a great way to connect with nature or friends. Perhaps taking a chance trying something new will lead to making memories, finding a new passion, or simply escaping reality if only for a short while. For more information on recreation opportunities in Prescott visit: www.prescott-az.gov

BY

Individual

Available

Prescott

The Quad City area has several organizations that work to serve others and strengthen our community, and all can use more volunteers. If you are looking for a way to become more involved in the community, you’ll be glad to know there’s a website designed to match volunteers with nonprofit organizations in the Quad City area: www.JustServe.org.

When you visit the site you’ll find a wide variety of volunteer opportunities, one or more of which may be just right for you, your family, church group, company or other organization. When you get to the home page simply type in the name of your town, hit enter and information on groups needing volunteers will fill your screen. And, you can even select a mile-radius function allowing you to zero in or expand your search to best fit your personal needs.

The site is hosted by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints but is nondenominational, and it posts volunteer opportunities without regard to religious affiliation. Its purpose is to help people find a volunteer opportunity that fits their time, talent and personal interests, and for nonprofits to find volunteers.

Pam and Gary Wendell are a husband-andwife team living in Prescott who volunteer their time to network within the community and help organizations post their volunteer opportunities. They strive to keep the site up to date and ensure it features a variety of service opportunities.

Gary says while most organizations are looking for people to volunteer for “ongoing” positions or do something on a regular basis over several months, the site also provides information on one-time events.

JustServe Matches Wouldbe Volunteers with Nonprofits

For example, the Wendells say one project they are excited about is the Quad City Interfaith Council’s 2nd annual Prescott Parks Clean-up Day of Service. The event is scheduled for July 25 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., appeals to people of any age, and is especially appropriate for families. Registration is at Granite Creek Park. The event, expected to attract 250 volunteers, will clean up that park and also paint metal rails at the Mike Fann Skate Park and adjacent soccer field. A barbecue luncheon and community celebration will close out the event.

Another way JustServe is proving useful is in helping companies find opportunities to work on service projects as a team-building exercise. Many of the organizations listed on

the website would benefit from a group of employees who came out together to support a major one-day project, or better yet, companies often “adopt” a nonprofit and work with the organization on an ongoing basis.

The Wendells are eager to meet with nonprofit organizations to explain the program, discuss their volunteer needs and post them on the site. The program is free, but the site is not to be used for fundraising or to support political candidates. The Wendells can be contacted at: gary.pam.wendell@gmail.com or at 928-458-5715.

Volunteering is a wonderful way to serve others and make new friends. Here’s hoping you can find an opportunity that is just right for you on JustServe.org.

Given the current COVID-19 situation we understand that coming into the office can be worrisome. We are happy to meet your needs via telemedicine.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, call us today. We have COVID-19 testing kits available.

Give Dr. Januski a call to discuss your areas of concern with a free consultation! Dr. Januski cooperates with other doctors and physicians in medical groups to give the utmost level of total care.

•

• 3D Ultrasound

• Fertility

• Wellness/Annual Gynecological Exams

• Contraceptive

• Bioidentical Hormone

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Building for the Future

NAVAHCS serving veterans in “Everybody’s Hometown”

by Mary Dillinger, Public Affairs Officer, Northern Arizona VA Health Care System

Northern Arizona VA Health Care System (NAVAHCS) is proud to serve more than 29,600 veterans. More than 34% of the staff are veterans, and it is an honor to care for the veterans in this amazing community. NAVAHCS is a Joint Commission-accredited health care facility that provides a continuum of primary and secondary level medical, rehabilitative and long-term care to veterans living in northern Arizona. Our Emergency Department is open 24 hours a day/seven days a week. The VA Medical Center is located in Prescott. The medical center’s catchment area covers more than 65,000 square miles. The Prescott campus is beautiful, with so much history. More than 75% of the buildings are on the historical registry, many of which need some upgrading. NAVAHCS is dedicated to improving patient care areas while still maintaining the historical integrity of the buildings. Earlier this year, an enhanced-use lease was approved. The enhanced lease will allow NAVAHCS to renovate six of the former officer quarters buildings and 3 acres of adjacent land on the southwestern portion of the campus as homes for our homeless veterans. The lease will be funded externally through

private organizations without VA funding.

Two major construction projects were recently completed. The new laboratory and pharmacy building is 18,000 square feet and is located next to the main hospital entrance. The new space offers veterans more privacy during their blood draw and more open environment in the pharmacy.

New equipment was installed that enhances the dispensing of medications while reducing potential for human error and wait time. The new pharmacy opened Jan. 27, and the new laboratory opened on March 9.

The new rehab medicine building was completed in January 2020. It is 17,000 square feet, located across the street from the canteen service and it will house the sterile processing service and central supply as well. This new building will offer veterans a large space for their physical rehabilitation and provide all new equipment, including lifts for wheelchair and non-ambulatory veterans during their appointments. The space will be available to treat veterans in the springtime.

Other projects on the horizon are the radiology expansion as well as the primary care renovation. The radiology expansion will add an additional 8,000 square feet to

the current laboratory area. It will create a modern radiology clinic with improved patient flow, better privacy and upgraded security. Four of the officer quarters buildings will be converted to mental health wellness areas to treat veterans. A space will be expanded for the new medical residency program to attract medical students and residents to NAVAHCS.

The current pharmacy space will be used for the new primary care design. A new warehouse will be built at the back of the campus near the baseball field. The current warehouses will be repurposed into a new training center, library and credit union. Construction on the new warehouse is scheduled to begin at the end of 2020.

In spring 2020 a veteran resource center will be designed using existing space in building 117. The area will be renovated to meet the demand to assist veterans with: enrollment and eligibility, billing, scheduling, beneficiary travel and much more. It will be a one-stop shop with trained staff to provide customer service and resolve issues onsite.

All of these projects will increase space while creating opportunities to improve already existing areas to make them more efficient for patient care.

If you are a veteran or you know a veteran who is not registered for care at the VA, please stop by the Eligibility and Enrollment office Monday-Friday between 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m., located in building 117 just past the information desk. Bring your DD214 and two forms of ID. Enrolled veterans will receive their first initial appointment immediately after registration. Thank you to our Veterans for choosing VA and thank you to all veterans for your service.

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

Special Section:

Tails of Downtown Prescott

by Blake Herzog

Downtown Prescott is the kind of place where most stores have a water dish near the front door for all the dogs who either drag or are dragged by their owners past the historic hotels and bars, sniff at the galleries and antique shops and growl at Miss Kitty’s Cat House at 302 N. Alarcon St., where up to 20 cats live and play until adoptive homes are found for them.

Whiskers Barkery at 225 W. Gurley St. is the hub of Prescott pet central, where dogs and their people are invited to pick out treats or toys, or if they’re in need of more serious gear there’s plenty of collars, leashes, outdoor gear and more. If your pooch is pooped you can pick up a doggie stroller or else let her or him rest in one of the spacious, climate-controlled crates the shop offers for a temporary respite. Of course there’s a “Kitty Korner” filled with catnip and honeysuckle-soaked toys and scrumptious feline delicacies as well.

Numerous downtown restaurants offer pet-friendly dining areas. One of the newer ones is the Taj Majal Restaurant and Bar, which recently relocated to 124 N. Montezuma St. in the heart of downtown. It has upstairs and downstairs patios that welcome people and pets. Both can enjoy the live music often playing at the restaurant, while the people partake of some of the best Indian cuisine to be found in the area.

Courthouse Plaza is where all walks of life converge, especially dog walks of life since they usually make friends much faster than their people do. Given how central canine joy is to the scene at the plaza, it makes sense there’s a plaque in the northwest corner of the square honoring a beloved “community dog” named Mike, who made the bars and shops of Whiskey Row his home in the 1950s, keeping other dogs away so he could have the treats and affection of its bartenders and visitors to himself.

Now, These Animals are Safe in Chino Valley

by Blake Herzog

Mitzi Conn’s fateful internet search from about three years ago has changed her life, along with many others.

From her Chino Valley home, she stumbled upon the existence of auctions, held primarily in Texas and Oklahoma, for horses and donkeys, many coming from loving owners who have passed away or can no longer care for them

But most of the buyers have no intention of giving or finding them a good home. Instead, they bring them to “kill pens,” generally the animals’ last home before being sold to slaughterhouses in Mexico and other countries where the sale of horse meat is legal.

“I found these kill lots, and they looked just like cattle feed lots, just thousands of horses, and I had no idea,” Conn said.

She was appalled, she added: “I actually bought a couple of them from the kill buyers (some are open to selling animals to rescue groups) and brought them out here, and I kept thinking I could do something for these animals, I can get a few of them and get them good homes.

“So that’s how it started, and friends of mine kept saying ‘Oh, you really, really need to expand.’ Well, we’ve expanded,” she says, bursting out laughing. “And I’m going to say we’ve adopted out more than 100 animals in the last two years.”

She founded Now That I’m Safe Equine Rescue as a 501(c)3 nonprofit in January 2018 and has quickly become a large-scale rescue group with animals being adopted out to homes in Arizona, California, Nevada and New Mexico. Conn said about 60% of the adoptees are full-size or mini-donkeys, and the rest are horses or ponies.

“Little mini-donkeys, they’re the light of my life. They’re just the sweetest things,” she says. “And there seems to be a real want for them in this area.”

Some 80% are rescued from an auction or kill pen, she said: “We look at these little 30-second videos of these animals and we try to decide which ones we think we can bring home, rehab and find homes for. It’s kind of a process.”

The ones purchased are put into a 30-day quarantine at one of two facilities the rescue works with in Oklahoma and Texas. Some

animals have been adopted straight from those ranches, and the one in Oklahoma includes a sanctuary for those found to be unadoptable.

The rest are driven out to Conn’s 10-acre home in Chino Valley, usually in groups of about 10.

“They’re all clean and healthy, they’ve had their Coggins (tests, for the equine infectious anemia virus), and they have a health certificate, they’ve been checked out. Then the process begins, we start evaluating them and seeing where we think they might fit in. And when they’re ready, we put them up for adoption,” Conn says.

Some have minor health issues, temporarily or for life.

“We have one sweet, sweet little pony right now that has kind of a deformity in her shoulder and she’ll always walk with this little bit of a twisted walk. But they’re vetted, the vet says that’s just the way she was born. She’s way too small to be ridden even by a toddler, she’s just a pet,” she said.

Some others have been through some trauma, she added, though the sociable donkeys tend to bounce back pretty quickly.

“A lot of the little donkeys have been used by ropers; they want to save their cows so they practice on the donkeys. And the little donkeys are very, very frightened when they get here,” Conn says.

“We spend a lot of time sitting with them, and once one of them becomes friendly — and it

doesn’t take much to make them friendly — then the others will wander over like, ‘What are you doing?’ and I kind of reach over and scratch them and they say ‘Oh that feels so good.’ Pretty soon they calm down and become really, really nice animals.”

Now That I’m Safe will also take in equines brought by local owners who can no longer care for them, as well as those caught running loose, in which case the rescue will try to locate the owner. They will also take animals that need to be euthanized.

Interested adoptive families must fill out an application, and if they’re not in the Prescott area they must provide photos of the facility where the animal will be kept. Regulations on keeping horses and other livestock on residential lots vary, but some jurisdictions now categorize mini-horses and mini-donkeys as pets, though Conn recommends owners have a lot that’s at least a quarter-acre to half an acre for these animals.

“Once they’re approved, they can pick an animal, or let an animal pick them, which sometimes happens,” she says, laughing.

In one instance from several months ago, a family which had adopted two children, ages 6 and 7, was looking for a pony for those kids, one of whom was blind. Conn eventually suggested they consider a donkey instead.

“The family came up and spent

the afternoon, and this one little donkey kept following this little girl, and following this little girl. They decided to adopt this donkey; we called her Mary. They have 10 acres and (her mother) says this little blind girl will put her hand on the donkey’s back and walk along with her, and this donkey leads her all over, never goes through any ditches, never goes under any trees. They’re just best friends now.”

Adoption fees usually run between $500 and $800, and can be paid in installments.

“We try to adopt out the animals for approximately 50% of what we’ve put into them,” Conn said. “And then we pray we get donations to cover the rest. And of course every time we adopt someone out, that gives us funding to bring the next one in.”

Monetary donations to the organization are tax-deductible, and it also has a volunteer program for those who would like to groom or clean up after the animals.

“We like for them to have a little bit of experience, but we’re always looking for help, too. And some people like to just come out and sit with the horses,” Conn says.

The mini-donkeys regularly appear in live Nativity scenes for Easter and Christmas at local churches, and smaller animals do visit patients in rehab hospitals, with one pony making a recent stop in Prescott Valley.

“There was a gentleman who was going to be there for quite a while, and he just wanted a four-legged equine to love on and that was really, really great,” Conn said.

Now That I’m Safe Equine Rescue is located at 2303 N. Road 1E in Chino Valley. For more information on adopting, donating or volunteering, call 951-233-1318, email nowthatimsafe@outlook.com or visit www. nowthatimsafe.org or Facebook @nowthatimsafeequinerescue.

Pet Safety Check Helps Protect Your Loved Animals From Injury, Illness

by Loree Walden, Marketing Manager, Yavapai Humane Society

ur homes, gardens and yards are full of items that can be potentially hazardous to our fourlegged family members, and as part of our family it makes it our responsibility to keep them safe. As we prepare for the warmer summer months ahead it’s a good time to look around our homes and do a little “safety check.”

Little things laying around like coins, batteries, jewelry, paper clips, rubber bands, buttons, string and more seem very harmless to us, but they could become a choking hazard to your pets. Plastic grocery bags can easily become a suffocation hazard to those curious cats who love to climb in them and play.

Medications, cleaning supplies, plant food and other things found in cabinets could potentially be fatal. The garbage can is another danger, as it could contain something that smells good to your pet but in reality isn’t good for them at all, especially if it is moldy or spoiled food.

Electrical cords should be kept where pets can’t get to them, perhaps behind furniture or taped to the walls, as too many times we’ve heard of pets biting through and ending up with an electrical jolt or worse. There are also a number of foods that can make your pet sick. They include, but are not limited to, grapes, mushrooms, raw meat, salt, meat bones, chewing gum or

candy, fat trimmings, avocados, artificial sweeteners, garlic, onion, leeks, chives, yeast dough, alcohol and coffee. Most of these foods result in upset stomachs, vomiting and diarrhea, which will probably mean a trip to your vet. Some of these foods could lead to death soon after being ingested. You can find a complete list of foods that can make your pets sick at www. pets.webmd.com and other pet care websites.

Your yard and garden also contains items that can be potentially deadly. Synthetic chemical fertilizers, herbicides, insecticides and certain mulches all contain ingredients that can make your pet very sick or worse. There are also a va-

riety of plants and flowers toxic for your pets. A few of them include lilies, lily of the valley, oleander, foxglove, sago palms, azaleas, rhododendrons, tulips, English ivy, hibiscus and hydrangea. A complete list can be found online at www. pets.webmd.com.

Animals give us so much, including their unconditional love. In exchange, it’s our job to take care of them and make sure no harm comes to them. The investment and time you take to make sure your home and yard are safe is easily worth the benefits you’ll receive from your pet.

Don’t Forget These 10 Ways to Maintain Your Overall Health

by Blake Herzog

Cope with stress in healthy ways including exercise, healthy eating habits, and mediation, deep breathing and other calming practices.

Avoiding being infected by or spreading COVID19 is at the top of everyone’s health agenda this spring, but we can’t forget about preventing heart or lung disease, diabetes, cancer and other conditions which claim millions of lives, year in and year out.

The components of a healthy overall lifestyle haven’t changed, and we need to stay on track, to keep some of these longer-term concerns at bay and possibly build your immune system against all types of infections.

1

Be physically active. It’s a good idea to make sure you stay active at least 30 minutes a day or more most days of the week, which can be broken into 10-minute segments when you’re pressed for time. For kids, the recommendation is one hour of mostly

aerobic activity daily. There are many types of healthy movement so find the ones you and your family will stick to and enjoy: some of the options include running, walking, yoga, sports and dancing.

2

Eat a well-balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Avoid foods that are high in saturated fats and cholesterol and moderate your intake of salt, sugar and fat. Saturated fats are found in meats, cheese and other full-fat dairy products, and cholesterol is present in red meats and full-fat dairy products. Avoid trans fats, found in margarines and some store-bought crackers, cookies and cakes.

3

Protect yourself and your family against injury by using and regularly checking equipment like seat belts, bicycle helmets and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and make sure any firearms in the home are stored safely. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, but especially when driving or walking outside the home.

4

Don’t smoke, or quit if you are smoking. Yavapai County Community Health Services recommends those looking for help with smoking cessation call Ashline, Arizona’s smoking hotline, at (800) 556-6222 for coaching or see www.ashline.org for more information.

5 If you drink alcohol consume it in moderation, and never drink before or while driving or when pregnant. Recommendations on alcohol use vary, but moderate consumption is usually defined as one drink per day for women and two per day for men. One serving equals a 12-ounce can of beer, 5-ounce glass of wine or 1.5 fluid ounces of distilled spirits.

6

Protect yourself from skin cancer by staying out of the sun when possible, especially between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. when the sun’s rays are strongest. Even cloudy days can pose a risk. Use sunscreen which guards against UVA and UVB rays, with a sun protection factor of at least 15. Wear sunglasses that block 99% to 100% of the sun’s rays.

7 Brush your teeth after every meal with a soft or medium-bristled toothbrush, and after drinking and before going to bed. Use dental floss daily. Maintaining good oral health can prevent tooth decay, gum disease bad breath and other painful or unpleasant conditions, which is

huge in itself. But the mouth is also a gateway by which harmful bacteria can reach other parts of your body, including the heart and lungs.

8

Prioritize sleep and rest. Most adults should get between seven and nine hours per night, which can help prevent heart disease and possibly some forms of cancer. You feel more alert and energetic during the day, and it can help relieve stress.

9

Keep a positive outlook and manage stress. There are many ways to approach this, but all include taking some time for yourself and knowing what can calm your negative emotions, especially in stressful situations. Some ways to cope include:

• Staying in touch with friends and family, by phone or online if not in person.

• Maintain a positive outlook and find hobbies or interests which keep you happy.

• Keep your sense of curiosity and wonder alive, remembering that lifelong learning keeps our minds healthier and stronger.

• Cope with stress in healthy ways including exercise, healthy eating habits, and mediation, deep breathing and other calming practices.

• Talk to your health provider if you experience symptoms of depression for more than a few days. If you or someone you know has thoughts of suicide, get help right away. Call 911, a local crisis center or (800) SUICIDE.

10

Keep in touch with your health provider. If you have symptoms you’re concerned about, let him or her know quickly for instructions on what to do next. Keep all appointments, in person or through whatever telemedicine arrangements are made. Stay current on all needed vaccines at your doctor’s office, pharmacy or other source. Yavapai County Community Health Services provides immunizations for adults and children.

Sources: www.UCSFhealth.org, www. mayoclinic.org, www.yavapai.us/chs, www. verywellhealth.com

Visit from a physical distance with these virtual

tours

National parks

The Hidden World of National Parks www. artsandculture.withgoogle.com/en-us/ —From Google Arts and Culture, this high-def, ranger-led virtual tour takes viewers to hidden corners of five national parks: Kenai Fjords, Hawaii Volcanoes, Carlsbad Caverns, Bryce Canyon and Dry Tortugas. The National Park Service also offers virtual tours of many locations, including Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Rocky Mountain and Smoky Mountain.

Museums

The Smithsonian Museum of Natural History has some excellent virtual tours at https://naturalhistory.si.edu/visit/ virtual-tour, allowing a close-up look at current and past exhibits about the flora and fauna of the Americas—and a little bit about the people, too.

If that’s not enough with you, Google has partnered with thousands of museums from around the world to gather their virtual tours at https://artsandculture.google. com/partner?hl=en. Most appear to be art-based, but there science and history hotspots galore.

World landmarks

See the highlights of the Great Wall of China at www. thechinaguide.com/destination/great-wall-of-china with 360-degree views of the ancient, seemingly endless wall, with details about every major section including travel time, steepness and photo ops.

Buckingham Palace, the Vatican, the Pyramids, the Taj Mahal and Moscow’s Red Square are but a very few of the other global attractions covered by virtual tours.

Other worlds

Visit Mars through a virtual tour composed of images taken by the Curiosity rover at https://accessmars. withgoogle.com/#, where you can see images in 360-degree mode while the site is being updated for virtual reality and augmented reality devices.

NASA also provides tours extensive tours of the moon (www.moon.nasa.gov/resources/168/tour-of-the-moon4k/) and the International Space Station (www.nasa.gov/ mission_pages/station/main/suni_iss_tour.html).

Source: www.theeducatorsspinonit.com

Low Water-Use Plants Can Pack a Big Punch

by Blake Herzog

Spring has arrived in the Central Highlands of Arizona, and most every tree, bush and flowering plant that went dormant for the winter is coming back to life, bursting with blossoms or budding with leaves every resident and visitor is heartened to see, especially so this year.

Sadly, there’s always a few that don’t spring back for whatever reason, and it’s time for their caretakers to look for other options. There are so many things to ponder when selecting a new plant for the yard: replicating the look you had versus trying something new out; the birds, butterflies and other creatures it may attract; whether it will take over the yard and whether that’s a good or bad thing.

But water, a precious resource all over the state, should be one of the top considerations. Reducing use for landscaping is a top priority for water management, and experts have put together lists of drought-tolerant or low water-use plants for most every region of the state.

Our area is no exception. Prescott, Prescott Valley, Chino Valley and Dewey are all within the Prescott Active Management Area, which tracks groundwater use over an almost 500-square-mile area. The Prescott AMA has also assembled a list of low water-use and drought-tolerant plant species that can thrive in our beautifully mild four-season climate. The list determines which plants can be used in public rights-of-way and medians, also acting as a resource for homeowners and businesses who want to cut back on their landscaping water use. It was created in 2006 with help from a plant list advisory group that included representatives from the Highlands Center for Natural History, the University of Arizona’s Yavapai County Extension and several Greater Prescott landscaping businesses. Here are a dozen beautiful, water-miserly

choices from the list: Most of these will do well at the indicated amount of irrigation from the grasslands in the east to the pine forests in the west, except where indicated.

TREES

Desert willow — A deciduous tree that drops its leaves in the fall, it can grow 15 feet to 40 feet and produces bell-like pink or purple flowers. It often has a leaning, twisting trunk, and when the flowers are dropped in the fall they are replaced by seed pods. It’s in the lowest water-use category. No. 1, on the list, on average needing up to 4 inches of irrigation per year once established, excluding rainwater. It’s best suited to the eastern grasslands up to 5,000 feet elevation.

Oak — There are seven varieties on this list, and three fall into Category 1 as well: Arizona white, gambel and emory oaks. The Gambel oak in particular is known for its importance

to indigenous civilizations as well as wildlife, including deer, bighorn sheep, quail, pigeons and caterpillars. Gambel oaks can vary widely in height, averaging about 10 feet to 30 feet but sometimes growing higher than 50 feet. These species do best in the higher elevations of 4,000 to 7,800.

Pines — Yes, these made the list too! Ponderosa, Scotch, Austrian, Bosnian, pinyon (including single leaf) and bristlecone all need about 5 inches to 8 inches of added irrigation per year, which puts them in Category 2. These guys all love to be in full sun and need plenty of sun to propagate to their full potential. Most will flourish everywhere except ponderosas and bristlecones, which are better above 4,000 feet.

Goldenrain tree — This species lends charm to the landscape throughout the year, with rare yellow tree blossoms in the late spring and summer that light up the whole yard. These are a 3 on the plant list, which means

they can need up to 12 inches of added irrigation a year.

SHRUBS

Smooth sumac — The only shrub native to all 48 contiguous states, this green, fernlike plant reaches a height of 10 feet to 20 feet and turns to bright red in the fall, before the leaves drop for the winter. Yellow-green flowers in the warm months transform into small red seed pods that feed birds throughout the winter. (Category 1)

Penstemon — A family of shrubs found across the American West, they’re known for their stalks of dense bright pink, red, purple, blue or white. Easy to care for, you can just chop the stalks off once the flowers fade. They are also attractive to hummingbirds, who can give you hours of entertainment. (Category 1)

pear — These and other members of the Opuntia family are well-known as the champion cacti for surviving cooler climates,

with a few variants found in the wild in Canada. Many, if not most, can do well in our arid mile-high climate, and some even prefer snow cover over being exposed to cold winter winds. (Category 1).

Indigo — These shrubs, so named because they were used to make a cheaper version of indigo dye in Europe, are clearly distinguished by their small blue blooms clustered along flower spikes to give a beautiful show in spring and early summer. These turn into peapod-like seed pods, which rattle in late summer breezes. (Category 2)

FLOWERS (perennial)

Sunrose — Also known as rock roses, these bright little flowers can be a long-lasting ground cover in rocky conditions and come in an increasing variety of colors. They do well in full or partial sun, resist most pests and diseases, and are also attractive to many birds and bees. Watering twice a week during the summer to get them established is a good idea. (Category 2)

Bee balm — Not surprisingly these are a great addition to any pollinator garden, attracting hummingbirds and butterflies along with bees. The seeds left behind draw birds through the fall and winter. There are red, pink, purple and white varieties, and all have a lovely fragrance to add to the show. They prefer full sun and plenty of air circulation, which can help prevent mildew. Grows best at 5,000-foot

Hot Poker — Coming from the lily family, these spiky red (and sometimes other colors) flowers are magnetic to hummingbirds and add an exclamation point to your garden. Once established in full or partial sun they usually are there for the long haul, and if you give them some extra water once in a while they truly appreciate it. (Category 2)

Russian sage — Actually a member of the mint family, the leaves of this plant unleash a striking aroma when crushed, but the real star is of course the abundant lavender blooms that live throughout the summer. It can tolerate average or clay soil as long as it’s well-drained, but needs lots of sun to ensure it grows strong stems that will bear the glorious flowers year after year. (Category 1)

The full Prescott AMA low water-use and drought-tolerant plant list can be found at http://www.prescott-az.gov/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/plant_list.pdf.

Connect, Dine and Play at Prescott’s Premier Golf & Social Club

by the Team at Capital Canyon Club

Whether you are new to Prescott or exploring new ways to enjoy life here, you must consider membership at Capital Canyon Club!

Located in the tranquil Hassayampa neighborhood just two miles from downtown, the club’s culture of hospitality complements an extraordinary member experience. There’s no better way to enhance your life in Prescott or than membership at Capital Canyon Club, which includes championship golf, fitness, swim, and social options like bridge groups, hikes, poker nights, annual member art showcase and more. The locker rooms entice members with steam rooms and saunas. Dining options are available indoors and out on the patio, and a professional culinary team serves up fantastic food, themed dinners, holiday celebrations, daily and weekly specials, cooking instruction, and even a chef’s table that serves up a five-course meal with wine pairings. With full event coordination available onsite, Capital Canyon Club is also the per-

fect spot for personal celebrations, weddings, tournaments, and business events.

The golf experience at Capital Canyon Club has been designed to challenge low-handicap players and energize recreational golfers. Regardless of skill level, members are always excited to come back time and again to share the fun and create lasting memories with family and invited guests. Situated on the site occupied in 1919 by Hassayampa Country Club, both the land and traditions of the game have been honored by Capital Canyon Club’s course designer, Tom Weiskopf. Weaving through dramatic granite boulder outcroppings, the impeccably manicured, 18-hole, 6,660-yard Par 71 course is held between a margin of towering pines. A testament to Weiskopf’s skill and artistry, multiple tee positions cling to hillsides, while generous fairways ribbon through the forested landscape toward greens that present their own distinct personality.

Golf Programs at Capital Canyon Club include Ladies’ Day on Thursdays, Men’s

Day on Fridays, monthly organized couples’ events, annual Club Championship, Men’s & Ladies’ Member-Guest tournaments, Member-Member events and more. With a full-time golf instructor on staff, you can join other members for group clinics, get golf ready through fitness, or enjoy personal one-on-one instruction. All organized golf programs are directed by our very knowledgeable golf staff. We take care of the details while you just come play golf! Our ladies also enjoy access to golf courses in the surrounding area through Team Play or Interclub events. Our men can also play in Territorial Cup, Bradshaw Cup Interclub events. Winter travel days to Troon private courses in the Phoenix area offer our members the opportunity to get away for a warm day of golf with friends. Demo days take place several times through the peak season providing our members the chance to try out and possibly get fitted for new golf equipment. We also offer trunk shows from various merchandise vendors.

Proudly managed by Troon Prive, all of our golf members receive Troon Prive Privileges which means access to all Troon managed private clubs around the world for a discounted fee. Golf members may play any or all of those courses up to 6 times per facility.

Give us a try! For a one-time payment of just $2,500, our Discovery Membership provides 90 days of everything Capital Canyon has to offer, including:

• Unlimited use of Club Golf Course & Practice Facilities

• Unlimited Cart Usage at no additional charge

• Complimentary (1) Bag Storage and (1) Locker

• Steam Rooms & Saunas

• Access to Club Fitness Center, Outdoor Swimming Pool & Hot Tub

• Exclusive access to our Clubhouse Restaurant & Social Events

• Invitations to join our Men’s & Women’s home & away golf games

• Golf Clinics, Couples Events, Skins Games, etc.

• Global golf benefits through Troon

This is the perfect way to try before you buy. David and Debbie Metz initially

experienced Capital Canyon Club through a Discovery Membership and now experience the long-term daily benefits of full golf membership!

“We joined Capital Canyon Club as Discovery Members under a 90-day trial in the summer of 2017. It was fabulous! This was a great chance to sample what the Club had to offer at a modest price before making a long-term commitment. The golf course is excellent, the Club facilities are top notch and the staff is

so polite and helpful. So, naturally at the end of our Discovery Membership experience, we looked forward to extending our membership! We’ve met so many nice members and look forward to meeting more. Capital Canyon Club has much to offer and is a first class Club.”

— David & Debbie Metz

Call 928-350-3155 and get started on enhancing your Prescott lifestyle with membership at Capital Canyon Club!

Benefits of Good Landscaping Come in Many Stripes

by Quang Nguyen, Marketing/Landscape Design, ZebraScapes Landscaping and Services

The exterior of your home is just as important as the interior when it comes to comfort, aesthetics and entertaining friends and family. A beautifully landscaped yard significantly adds joy and quality of life, not to mention increasing the financial value for your home and enhancing the community.

ZebraScapes Landscaping and Services is a family-owned and operated business started by Rodney and Denise Steidinger. We have been working miracles and improving curb appeal in the Quad-City area for more than 10 years now. The business started by knocking on doors to earn new business performing maintenance and install services.

ZebraScapes grew fast through dedication, hard work and quality products poured into every project. The business continues to grow, currently employing over 40 full-time team members. We have the largest fleet in Northern Arizona with specialized equipment to execute world-class service for our clients.

“Our philosophy is simple, create the most beautiful outdoor environment while using the highest quality materials, and back up every project with a warranty,” Rodney says, adding “We are here to make your dreams a reality.”

ZebraScapes has provided services including custom landscape design and installation, tree care, irrigation, maintenance, Firewise cleanup and many more services. Our professional staff is well trained and experienced. Our certified arborist on staff, Edwin DeWees, has specialized in tree care for more than 20 years. “We can reach any tree height with our bucket lift to treat or remove safely,” Edwin says.

ZebraScapes’ irrigation division is led by Justin DeMicco, a certified irrigation technician. His professional crew is ready to design a custom system specific to your landscape needs. “I like to see the use of more native plants and xeriscapes. Water is a precious commodity in the high desert and focusing on conservation and sustainability is highly encouraged,” Justin says.

When it comes to weed control, ZebraScapes has an Arizona-licensed certified applicator to perform the job properly, adhering to its strict regulations. Spraying pre-emergent will keep weeds from germinating and taking over your yard this spring. We also recommend pre-emergent spray again just before the monsoon season starts.

The National Fire Protection Association (www.nfpa.org) is an interagency program that partners with communities, homeowners, private industry, tribes, public agencies and officials to develop and implement local solutions for wildfire preparedness — before a fire starts. ZebraScapes personnel are skilled and trained in the science of Firewise techniques suggested by the Prescott Area

Wildland Urban Interface Commission, so we can help you take action now to ensure your property has defensible space. “We live in a beautiful environment with homes surrounded by natural growth, but that creates a condition highly susceptible to wildfire danger, so we need to be prepared in advance,” says Gary Russell, Firewise supervisor.

ZebraScapes Landscaping and Services was recently honored to receive Prescott’s Best award from the City of Prescott for our outstanding achievements, longevity, contributions to the community and commitment to Prescott’s quality of life. We are very grateful for this recognition and the opportunity to be an integral part of this vibrant community.

“Our philosophy is simple, create the most beautiful outdoor environment while using the highest quality materials, and back up every project with a warranty”

To us, “commitment to Prescott’s quality of life” means much more than simply contributing to a charitable cause. Rodney and Denise wanted to somehow help less fortunate children. They found their calling in 2013 when they became licensed foster parents and a sweet little girl named Ella came into their lives. It wasn’t long before the state asked Rodney and Denise about adopting Ella permanently. The decision was easy, and in 2014, Ella became a permanent member of the Steidinger Family.

You can learn more about us at www. ZebraScapes.com or call 928-830-4061.

“Making Your Dreams a Reality”

ZEBRASCAPES

928.830.4061

landscaped yard significantly adds joy and quality of life, not to mention increasing the financial value for your home and enhancing the community.

ZebraScapes Landscaping and Services is a family owned and operated business which was started by Rodney and Denise Steidinger. We have been working miracles and improving curb appeal in the Quad-City area for more than ten years now. The business started by knocking on doors to earn new business performing maintenance and install services. ZebraScapes grew fast due to dedication, hard work and quality products poured into every project.

ZebraScapes Landscaping has provided services including custom landscape design and installation, tree care, irrigation, maintenance, firewise clean up and many more services. Our professional staff is well trained and experienced.

ZebraScapes Landscaping and Services was recently honored to receive “Prescott’s Best” award from the City of Prescott for our outstanding achievements, longevity, contributions to the community and commitment to Prescott’s quality of life. We are very grateful for this recognition and the opportunity to be an integral part of this vibrant community.

Let in the Fresh Arizona Breeze

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

Spring is in the air! Dust the patio furniture. Fill the propane tank. Open the screen doors. At Arizona Breeze Retractable Screen Doors, we specialize in helping homeowners benefit from the cool, clean air of Prescott by outfitting any doorway with the most durable, aesthetically pleasing retractable screen door system on the market.

Why retractable screen doors?

Retractable screen doors are uniquely designed to be used only when you need them and when you don’t, remain hidden and out of sight. Unlike a traditional screen or security door that is always in view, a retractable screen door’s screen rolls back into an aluminum housing when not in use, protecting the screen.

Does the brand of retractable screen door matter?

Yes, the quality and design of each brand varies greatly and affects the longevity of the product. Elements to consider are the durability/strength of the aluminum, plastics, internal mechanisms, etc.; how completely the aluminum housing seals up to protect the screen; how the system will stand up to wind, pests and pets; and how it was designed to respond in the event of mishaps/damage.

Arizona Breeze Retractable Screen Doors is proud to install PrimAire® Retractable Screen Doors, the ultimate retractable screen door system. PrimAire® was born out of the need for a more durable, well-crafted door with top functionality and longevity. Earlier designs

were developed without the benefit of long-term testing. PrimAire®’s designer spent 15 years in the industry, installing and maintaining retractable screen door systems, interacting with over 10 different brands. This enabled him to analyze the benefits and flaws of each design, as well as listen to concerns from customers.

How can I learn more?

We would love to talk with you in person and provide an instant quote over the phone or have you visit our website for more information. Every door we install is custom-built onsite, making installation seamless and professional. We look forward to helping you open your home to the fresh, Arizona Breeze!

$95,000 Williamson Valley Ranch

8 acres of absolutely stunning birds-eye views of the San Francisco Peaks, Mingus and Granite Mountain, and Valley for miles! This ideal parcel is located in highly desirable Williamson Valley Ranch among many highend custom homes. Two perfect locations to build your dream home. Good 10GPM well on lower half ready for pump installation. Alternative septic recommended. Fire dept., Sheriff station, mini mart and gas just down the road. Very close to hiking, biking, & horseback riding trails plus nearby national forest and state land! Yearly road maintenance fee to the WVR Road Association. A must see for this picture perfect lot!! 11910 Cowboy, Prescott

$149,000

Stunning, unobstructed, panoramic views from this 2.02 acre hilltop parcel. The top of the hill has a flat to gently sloping building site and the southern exposure is perfect for solar options. Located on a quiet cul de sac with mature vegetation in an area of upscale custom homes. Neighborhood has paved county maintained roads, fire hydrants and underground utilities with a private community water and sewage facility. Many nearby hiking and riding trails. Many nearby hiking and riding trails. Both hilltop corner pins are clearly marked, and is easy to access through that lot to walk property. Build your own dream home in scenic Inscription Canyon Ranch in Williamson Valley. No HOA’s. 6650 W. Box Canyon Place, Prescott

“Imagine

–Falen Hague, Office Manager

– Marie Kondao

928) 493-9612. Log onto our website www.wvcabinets.com. You can find us on

Growing Your Own Organic Herbs

by Lisa Watters-Lain, Arizona’s garden gal

Growing herbs is a favorite for their elegant beauty and culinary uses in my family kitchen. Even with acres of property and gardens galore, it’s so lovely to step outside my door and pick a handful of fresh herbs from a beautiful container garden. Besides, it’s often dark when I’m preparing dinner after working a day at Watters Garden Center. Who wants to root around a garden with a headlamp on for fresh herbs? With the flip of a switch,

my porch light allows me to snip fresh herbs from my containers right out the back door.

Plants Per Container —

You can grow as many types of herbs in one container as you like. For a more finished designer style, try a kind of herb per pot and then group these pots together. I’m a big fan of crowded, bountiful container gardens. Different herbs can be packed into a single container, and I find they have a way of adapting to

accommodate each other. This is especially true of those herbs cut more often.

Container Garden Design

— Don’t be shy about using herbs as decorative elements in any container garden. They add fragrance, look fantastic and provide a great texture to any container filled with annual or perennial flowers.

Choosing a Container —

Herbs can be grown in anything as long as it has drainage at the bottom of the container. Be careful with culinary herbs, and avoid treated lumber or tar-lined clay pots. These non-organic toxins can be absorbed by herbs and be unknowingly consumed at the table. I prefer brightly glazed clay pots for a healthy Mediterranean look and feel.

When it comes to growing herbs in containers, bigger really is better. The more soil a container holds, the more roots a

plant can grow, and the sweeter the herbs produced. The smaller the container, the less soil there is, resulting in a lower margin of error when it comes to watering.

To Grow the Best Herbs

Light — Most herbs need at least six hours of sun a day. As small containers can bake on hot summer days, small pots of herbs thrive under midday shade, at least until the monsoon rains arrive in July.

Soil

—

Make sure containers have at least one drain hole at the bottom. Fill with Watters Potting Soil, a unique blend of soil perfect for better growth in containers. Fill, plant and watch them grow. Enough said.

Herbal Plant Food — Herbs are finicky when it comes to food. Some don’t like much food at all, and others will flat out croak when overfed. At weekly inter-

vals, add Watters Flower Power to your water and prepare for the most amazing harvests of herbs. It really makes a difference for blooming herbs like rosemary and lavender, and it coaches fragrances and oils out of nonbloomers.

Herbal Harvest — The rule of thumb is the more you pick, the more you’ll get. You really do want to pinch most herbs back to make them bushier and well-formed.

My favorite department at the garden center is the organic herb section. That’s probably the reason we have the largest selection of herbs in Northern Arizona! My passion equals too many herbs

to name here, but if you have a favorite, we most likely have it, and now through June is the best season to plant herbs in your own container.

Until the next issue, I’ll be helping local gardens grow herbs here at Watters Garden Center.

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

We specialize in roses that actually smell like a rose with larger owers, higher pedal counts for bushes of sheer beauty! Heirlooms, old-fashions and English David Austin roses; just to name a few!

700 stunning roses are grown each spring here at Watters that tickle the eyes, delight the nose and get your blood owing!

Construction has always been one of the top revenue-generating industries in the world, and the United States construction market is one of the largest. Despite the size and scope of the industry, it is constantly changing and adapting to the current economic and social climate. There is sustainable growth throughout many sectors of construction, especially in the private development of single-family homes and home improvement projects. The workplace is changing as well, with an increase in minority

Facts Offer Building Blocks to Knowing the Construction Industry

by Sandy Griffis, Executive Director, Yavapai County Contractors Association

and female representation. New technologies and construction trends such as drone mapping and building information modeling software are creating new solutions for old inefficiencies and increasing safety on the job site.

This doesn’t mean the industry is without its challenges. There is still an ongoing labor shortage for skilled workers. YCCA was so proud to organize a second Boot Camp this past January and the success was beyond our expectations. Eight young adults have been placed in our local industry and are happy as can be.

How about some fun and interesting facts pertaining to the industry that I so love!

• At $992 billion, 77% of construction spending occurred in the private sector in 2018. (Statista)

• Single-family residential construction is estimated at $282 billion, up 4% from 2017. (FMI)

• Multifamily residential construction rose by 1% last year, with $67 billion in estimated value. (FMI)

• Commercial construction was $89 billion in 2018, up 2% from the previous year. (FMI)

• Home improvement spending increased by 5% in 2018. (FMI)

• 11.2 million people worked in the construction industry in 2018. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

• 35% of construction-related companies increased their staff size in 2017. (JBK)

• The average hourly wage of all construction employees was $31.08 in 2019. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

• The construction industry has added 297,000 net jobs. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

• The approximate dollar value of construction work done in the U.S. in November 2019 was estimated to be $1.3 billion. (CENSUS)

• 90% of U.S. general contractors reported they are concerned over the labor shortage. (USCC)

• 61% of contractors plan on hiring more employees in the next six months. (USCC)

• 61% of contractors also report having trouble finding skilled workers. (USCC)

• Gen Y and Millennials make up 45.5% of the industry, while 54.4% were born between 1960 and 1979. (JBK)

• 10% of the total construction workforce is female. (Bureau of Labor Statistics)

• 50% of all construction in the U.S. is expected to occur in just 20 cities over the next five years. (Built Worlds)

• Costing $417/sq. ft., San Francisco is the most expensive city to build in 2019. (Curbed)

• 42.6% of firms are experimenting with drones — up 5% in 2019. (JBK)

• 57% of companies are considering job-site employee tracking. (JBK)

• 10.8% reported using smartwatches for work. (JBK)

• 35.9% of construction employees are hesitant at trying new technology. (JBK)

• 55% of construction firms use Building Information Modeling (BIM) software, while 27.5% intend to adopt the technology within the decade. (JBK)

• 38.2% of companies cite “lack of IT staff” as the most limiting factor in adopting new technology. (JBK)

• 75% of construction firms now promote themselves through social media. (JBK)

• The average backlog of projects for general contractors is 9.3 months, indicating a stable market with room for growth. (USCC)

• Apple is the most used mobile operating system, with 78.7% of companies using it. (JBK)

• 59% of construction companies use the Bluebeam (Revu) mobile app for plan management. (JBK)

Special Section: Home & Garden

There’s a Home for Everyone, at Every Stage of Their Lives

Judy Bluhm

by Judy Bluhm, Realtor, Realty ONE Group Mountain Desert

Home. A simple word that holds special meaning for each of us. It is the one safe place where we can go to escape from a hectic world. It is not just four walls and a roof, it is the expression, perhaps extension of ourselves. Our home is our safe harbor, the environment we have created for ourselves and our family, the place we love to live, love, relax, decorate and share with friends and loved ones.

A home is as unique as we are, and no two are ever alike. Sure, there are plenty of developments with similar houses, but walk through the front door and it becomes an incredibly personal statement. Not limited by features, not defined by décor, more than just a floorplan, our homes are the spaces we build to live our best life.

People come in all shapes and sizes and so do houses. The journey of life takes us from small apartments to “starter homes,” to large houses in the suburbs with room for the kids, to even larger estates and then, a funny thing happens — we want to downsize. Maybe a smaller home, a condo or a cottage in the woods is what we are looking for next. Our homes reflect the seasons of our life. There is no “one size fits all” concept when it

comes to our home.

Perhaps the view is the most important feature of your home. For some, it might be the convenient location. For others, steps are 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 house in the pines. In other words, our home becomes our unique world. Our private sanctuary.

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. We are the home.

In Prescott, the home choices are endless, the options diverse and all with the backdrop of a beautiful location. Houses? There are plenty. A home? Just one. Location? Where the living is friendly and easy. Where we all say, “mi casa es su casa.”

2115 Hibiscus Circle, Prescott 86301 $599,000

Gorgeous home with 2200 sq ft of designer features and beauty, 4 beds/2 baths and a 3-car garage. A chef’s kitchen with granite, highend stainless appliances, a great room with stone fireplace, a master suite with fireplace and separate exit to patio. The backyard is fenced and with stone terracing, synthetic grass and view of mountains! In highly desirable Prescott Highlands with no HOA! Centrally located and priced to sell!

More information is available by calling 602-8263215 or 928-713-6100, emailing judy@judybluhm.com or going to www.JudyBluhm.com.

5275 Old Skull Valley

This is green, lush property from Prescott, but a pasture, 4-stall barn, updated wonderful bedrooms, office, and peaceful setting with

Judy Bluhm has been helping buyers and sellers for over 21 years. Her commitment to her clients’ goals, hopes and dreams for the “right property” at the “right price” is what makes her one of the top Realtors in Prescott. Judy has a deep passion for this community and knows it well. She is involved in the board of Blankets 4 Kids and Arizona Philharmonic and writes a weekly column in three newspapers. Judy’s job is to sell property. And she loves her job!

Judy Bluhm, Realtor

www.JudyBluhm.com

judy@judybluhm.com

602-826-3215

928-713-6100

Judy Bluhm REALTOR

1130 Fawn Lane, Prescott 86305 - $795,000

Beautiful, quality built home in desirable Longview Estates with 4535 sq ft of custom features. Home boasts 5 bedrooms, 3 baths, library, an office/ studio (attached by a breezeway), a hot tub, and a huge Chef’s kitchen with loads of cabinets and granite. Master has a walk-in tub, his/her closets, cedar closet and the living room has a pellet stove. An attached 2.5 car garage, plus anther garage and carport with a second driveway. Fantastic home! View on www.LongviewEstatesCustom.com

2115 Hibiscus Circle, Prescott 86301 $599,000

Gorgeous home with 2200 sq ft of designer features and beauty, 4 beds/2 baths and a 3-car garage. A chef’s kitchen with granite, highend stainless appliances, a great room with stone fireplace, a master suite with fireplace and separate exit to patio. The backyard is fenced and with stone terracing, synthetic grass and view of mountains! In highly desirable Prescott Highlands with no HOA! Centrally located and priced to sell!

9845 Cougar Canyon Rd., Prescott 86305 - $125,000

Two acres of incredible rock outcroppings, trees, views and plenty of places to build your dream home. Located in Wikutepa Estates, this vacant lot is in a gated, private enclave of luxury homes off of Williamson Valley. Priced to sell!

5275 Old Skull Valley Rd, Skull Valley 86338 - $575,000

This is green, lush property in historic Skull Valley, just 25 minutes from Prescott, but a world away. Bring the horses to enjoy irrigated pasture, 4-stall barn, approx 4 fenced acres and a completely updated wonderful country home with 2100 sq ft, rock fireplace, three bedrooms, office, and views from every room! Pristine, serene and peaceful setting with plenty of shade trees! Owner agent.

Service Can Bring You a ‘Maid to Order’ Spring Cleaning

by Lucy Leyva, Owner, Prescott Maid to Order

As spring approaches, it is time to be thinking about projects and maintenance on your home. Prescott Maid to Order is here to help with all of your spring cleaning and projects. Here are some of the questions I hear when I talk to the members of my community:

• Can you do a one-time cleaning, or do I have to hire you on a regular basis? We can absolutely help you with your onetime projects. Regular recurring service is available on request.

• Can you clean just floors and fans, or do you need to clean everything? We will customize the cleaning to only what you need as often or as little as you want.

• Can you do an after-remodel cleanup in the entire house? Yes, remodeling is a messy project and we can do a final clean so it is sparkling top to bottom.

Here are some important things to consider:

WINDOW CLEANING – It’s important to maintain your windows and track to maximize your beautiful view and to keep the elements outside.

CARPET CLEANING – Carpets need to be cleaned periodically to keep your home beautiful and sanitary.

POWER WASHING – If you are getting ready to paint, clean out rain gutters of debris, or even want to get the marks off

your driveway, power washing is a good way to go.

SPRING CLEANING – Clear out some of the excess stuff from your closet, then clean the stuff that usually doesn’t get done like baseboards, doors, door frames, pot shelves, tops of the kitchen cabinets and blinds.

All these areas have horizontal surfaces that collect dust and dirt all year long and need a good cleaning a couple of times during the year. Take a look in the fridge and the inside of the oven, too, and see if it is time to have them deep-cleaned.

Get ready to enjoy spring and summer with a beautiful, clean home.

The ROX Interview (continued)

...continued from page 40

take the bombers where they’re supposed to go.’ That’s when the Pathfinders were formed for dropping troops. We had a $100,000 airplane with $500,000 worth of radar in there. All the radar was developed by the British and built by the Americans.

Pretty basic. We had SHORAN, we had LORAN, we had PPI — plan position indicator. That’s the big belly scopes that went around. The heavy bombers used them for dropping bombs on a target. We used it for low-level navigation at night. With the G Box and the SCR-717, I knew where I was within 25 yards — in North Africa and northern Europe.

After D-Day, Gen. James Gavin was having an air medal presentation. Gen. Gavin heard that the Pathfinders were having their air medal presentation for D-Day. So he arrived. He told our colonel, ‘Tell me all of the aircraft commanders that dropped in paratroopers.’ So he picked us all out, took us into another room and he, and, ‘Take off your blouses.’ We took off our blouses. He took the air force bug, this parachute bug. And he pinned it on us the way they do. You understand what I say? They stuck those on and then they hit them with the heel of their hand. Hurt like hell.

PRESCOTT LIVING: V-E Day — Victory in Europe. Where were you?

DAVID HAMILTON: I was on leave at home. I celebrated by pushing my wife, my mother-in-law, my grandmother-in-law in the reservoir. You weren’t allowed to swim in it.

PRESCOTT LIVING: Where was home at this time?

DAVID HAMILTON: Tuxedo Park, New York, Orange County.About 40 miles outside of New York City.

PRESCOTT LIVING: So why were you home when the war ended in Europe? What did you do when the war ended? Where did they assign you next?

DAVID HAMILTON: I was sent home. I had flunked my physical. I had flown 100 missions and lost weight. I went from 147 pounds to 107. That’s why they sent me home. I was assigned to Baer Field in Fort Wayne, Indiana as public relations officer for the troop carrier commander. I had charge of an orchestra. Bond tour. We had two broadcasts a week. One was 15 minutes, one was a half-hour, Sunday with the

orchestra. Had a wonderful girl singer who went on to sing light opera after the war.

PRESCOTT LIVING: You flew 100 missions?

DAVID HAMILTON: Yes, 100 in Europe before the war ended. But remember, as a troop carrier, we could get two missions in one day. Fly gasoline to Patton in the morning, go over and pick up a nurse and two techs and fly wounded back to England in the afternoon; you’d get two missions. So you could get 100 missions in in relatively short periods of time. That was in a 47?

After the war, I flew C54s commercially to Cuba. Trans Air was a nonscheduled,

and in those days you couldn’t get your air transport command rating with a nonsched. Today, of course, you can. But in those days you couldn’t, so I had to make an arrangement to go with an airline that had some of my buddies flying in it. That was American Overseas Airlines out of LaGuardia, field constellations to Wiesbaden then home through Copenhagen, because Pan Am had Paris.

I had four years of active duty in duty in World War II. Then I went to Korea.

Yeah, in ‘52. Went to jet school in ‘53. I continued on page 128...

Smart Home Sensors Can Save You from Calamity

One of the nastiest surprises a homeowner can encounter is finding out about damage to their home that they could have prevented had they caught the problem earlier.

For example, a leak that’s been slowly dripping behind your wall and causing extensive damage may not be covered by your homeowner’s policy since you should have caught it with regular upkeep.

Homeowners have countless stories of leaks that caused extensive damage, sumppump failures that flooded whole rooms, frozen pipes that burst and gas leaks that led to fires, or worse.

Fortunately, technology has come to the rescue with a number of smart home sensors that can detect problems when they develop, either suddenly or slowly. Thanks to a number of smart sensors that can alert your phone is something is amiss, you can greatly reduce the damage any of the above scenarios may cause.

You can set up some smart sensors as stand-alone units with their own dedicated hub, while others are adaptable and can communicate with brand-name smart home hubs like:

• SmartThings,

• Apple HomeKit, or

• Wink

The sensors communicate with a central hub using Bluetooth technology, while the hub uses your home Wifi to alert the app on your phone.

Here are the sensors that can give you the most bang for your buck in terms of safety and preventing damage to your home, its contents, your family - and even pets.

Water sensors

There are a number of smart leak detectors on the market, and depending on the brand, the system can shut off water in about five seconds after detecting a leak in your home. This can save you thousands of dollars in property damage.

You can place these sensors at specific points where leaks are possible, such under sinks, appliances and water heaters. This allows you to customize a leak detection

solution based on your needs or concerns. Some sensors can even detect changes in water temperature, which can help you avoid damage from frozen pipes.

Home sweet home

These sensor units may also include shutoff valves, which can be installed at strategic locations in your piping. It’s best to call a plumber because installing a shut-off valve may require cutting into the water line. Leave that to the pros.

Freeze sensors

These are typically only necessary in regions that have freezing temperatures and snow for periods of time in the winter. When pipes freeze, they can back up, expand and burst and possibly flood parts of your home.

Many of the systems that detect leaks also can detect if pipes have frozen. Like leak sensors, freeze sensors are small devices that constantly monitor the temperature of the object or area they’re in touch with. If a sensor detects frozen pipes, it will notify you via your smart phone app or activate a shut-off valve if it’s installed.

Smart smoke alarms

Protect all that you’ve built with a company you can

ture that will act as a smoke alarm by listening for the sound of your regular smoke alarm then send you an alert. There is also a smart 9V battery on the market that you plug into your smoke alarm and which alerts you in case it goes off.

Temperature sensors

Smart temperature sensors can alert you to changes in areas of your home that need to have steady temperatures, such as wine cabinets, crib rooms, pet enclosures and humidors.

Window and door sensors

Drivers typically spend five seconds looking at their phones, which is enough time to cover more than the length of a football field going normal highway speeds.

A smart smoke alarm works just like a normal smoke alarm, except it has the added feature of notifying you if there is a fire and you are not home. That gives you the opportunity to call the fire department or a trusted neighbor to ensure a faster response.

If you own an Alexa speaker, it has a fea-

For your home security needs, you may want to consider door and window sensors. They usually come in two parts - one that attaches to the door or window frame, and another that attaches to the door or window itself.

When the door or window is closed, the circuit between the two parts of the sensor is complete and so is marked as ‘closed’ - but as soon as a door or window is opened, the circuit is ‘broken,’ which triggers an alert.

Special Section: Home & Garden

State of the Prescott Housing Market: Robust

by Tod Christensen, Manager, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty

Spring is in the air all over Prescott and Prescott Valley and when spring returns the housing market heats up. I am the manager for Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, and I will be happy to periodically provide you all with an update on the housing market in our area. There’s no doubt if you’ve lived in Prescott, even for a short time, you’ve seen some big changes in the area. Growth is constant and shows no signs of subsiding. To give you a little perspective, Arizona is the fastest-growing state in the nation, according to a 2018 report, both in total growth and percentage of growth.

As a state we add well over 200,000 residents every year. Plus those are 2018 numbers. I fully expect that when the 2020 census numbers are released it will show Arizona adding closer to 300,000 people a year. California transplants alone account for 75,000 new residents a year.

The impact this growth will continue to have is fairly obvious. New home construction will not slow down any time soon and home prices will maintain a steady increase. To give you some actual numbers let’s start by comparing prices of sold homes in February 2018 versus this February. In February 2018 the average price of a sold home was $309,000 and the median was $285,000. In

February 2020 the average home sold for $359,000 and the median was $306,000.

Now, a couple of interesting observations. First, that’s very strong growth in pricing, roughly a 14% increase over two years in the average price. What that indicates to me is that the upper price ranges in Prescott are selling better today than two years ago. If you have more homes selling for over $1 million, that will drive the average price up. One note here: Don’t confuse average price changes with home appreciation values. These are two separate figures.

The median price increased from $285,000 to $309,000. That’s an even more interesting number. Average price can easily be influenced by a couple of high-end sales, but median price is a very accurate determination of the overall strength of a market. To show an increase of 8% over two years means an average of 4%, which means this is a very strong, healthy market we are in.

When it comes to pricing there is one indicator that would appear to show that the rising prices may be slowing down, that indicator is the list-to-sell ratio. That ratio looks at the price a home was listed at and the price it sold at. Typically, anything above 95% is fairly normal. Anything below that would be a very soft market. Anything above 98% would be a hot market. In 2018 that number

was 98.82%! In February of this year we are back down to 95.96%. Still very, very strong, but not the red-hot market for pricing we saw two years ago.

In summary, the market shows no signs of truly slowing down, so if you are thinking of buying do it now for two reasons. Interest rates may never again be this low in our lifetime. I know we’ve heard that before, but I was just quoted a 2.75% rate on a 15-year refinancing. Prime isn’t much lower than that, so take advantage of these rates while they last.

The second reason is growth shows no signs of slowing, so delaying a purchase won’t save you any money and will probably only limit your options.

Feel free to call me at 928-300-3369 if you ever just want to talk real estate or need some advice. Always happy to help and at your service.

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s Int’l Realty

Tod Christensen

2971 Willow Creek Rd., Prescott 928-300-3369

For your next chapter

Your home is more than a building or an address. It’s where you experience life, connection, and growth. The real estate team you choose to represent your property should be as exceptional as you are, and as your next chapter is going to be. In Prescott, only Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty o ers unrivaled service and limitless opportunities.

For those who seek exceptional service marketing homes in Prescott, there is only Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty. Let’s have a conversation.

THE PRESCOTT PIONEER

Bill in Legislature Could Help Create Granite Dells Park

Abill currently in the Arizona Legislature could go toward the creation of what is tentatively called “a regional park in Granite Dells.”

The $5.3 million bill proposed by State Rep. Noel Campbell, whose district includes Prescott, was working its way through the House of Representatives in March and then the Senate, City officials said.

The Prescott City Council voted March 10 to approve up to $1.5 million from its open space money to go toward acquisition of land in the Granite Dells from a private property owner. Those

dollars would be withdrawn from the approximate $1.77 million that remains in the Prescott open space fund. Those dollars originated from the City open space/street sales tax provision that expired in December 2015.

The City Council made clear the proposed allocation is contingent upon House Bill 2284 being approved at the Legislature. The exact dollars ultimately will depend upon the amount, if any, appropriated by the Legislature.

Council members also made clear the parcel being discussed does not in any way include

the Arizona Eco Development land that is near the Point of Rocks and under consideration for annexation into City limits. Instead, it is about 300 acres of property that would not be included in the proposed AED development.

Campbell has indicated a legislative decision could be weeks away, as the Legislature is trying to move rapidly toward close for the year.

Several City Council members, including Phil Goode and Cathey Rusing, have said they hoped the City’s action will convince the Legislature that

the City and the community are behind Campbell’s bill.

Campbell’s bill is co-sponsored by Sen. Karen Fann, president of the Arizona Senate, and by Rep. Steve Pierce, a Prescott resident. The bill requests funds to be appropriated from the Arizona State Parks Board, which could then distribute the money to the City of Prescott to establish the regional park.

Luxury Vinyl Plank — The Hottest Flooring Trend Today

by Dennis Rowland, Regional Vice President, Primera Carpet One Floor and Home

Luxury vinyl planks are the fastest-growing interior flooring product on the market today. Below I will touch on a number of key benefits of this beautiful, durable and affordable flooring option.

LVP is a very cost-effective option when considering flooring for your home. You can save hundreds, even thousands, without sacrificing style. Unlike real wood, there are many choices available for under $4 a square foot. But beware of that “great deal.” If it looks too good to be true — well, you know the rest of that story. Quality LVP starts around $3.50 per square foot and can go up to $7. If you’re looking to spend a bit less, expect to shop around. At the $3-$4 range colors, sizes and visuals are limited. Don’t lose hope as there are a multitude of choices.

Whether you’re looking to replicate beautiful hickory or reclaimed barn wood or even natural stone, you’re sure to find the perfect style and color. Then consider the size and format. You can choose between large format tiles, wide planks or traditional 2to 3-inch wide boards. Today’s LVP comes in a variety of textures like hand-scraped and knotted. Make sure you run

your fingers across the boards to feel the character and texture of today’s LVP.

LVP flooring is quite durable as it doesn’t easily scratch, and most flooring choices are water-resistant with many even waterproof. Many offerings feature through-body coloring, which means if they do get scratched the damage is less noticeable. Most feature a protective-wear layer and/or hardened clear coat finishes. When it comes to maintaining LVP — it doesn’t get any easier.

No wax, no polish? No problem. Today’s LVP doesn’t need added finishes to maintain its visual beauty.

In fact, most LVP shouldn’t be waxed at all as it will damage the surface. Always check with your local flooring professional or the manufacturer before applying any surface chemicals. LVP cleanup is simple. For day-to-day sprucing, use your favorite static dust broom. For a deeper cleaning use a damp (not wet) mop and mild cleaner. What could be easier?

...continued from page 118

was assigned to Easton Air Defense Command at Stewart Air Force Base, Newburgh, New York. The best posting I ever had. Twenty miles from my home (laughs) in Tuxedo, New York.

After I was discharged, l was promoted in my company to Delaware state manager of the Smirnoff Vodka Company, part of the Heublein company. That’s where my retirement comes from is from Smirnoff Vodka. I don’t get a cent from the military.

PRESCOTT LIVING: So, you were originally in the Army Air Corps. But then it became the U.S. Air Force in September 1947. So you were both Army Air Corps and U.S. Air Force.

DAVID HAMILTON: We were in blue uniforms. Yeah. I got promoted to second lieutenant on Nov. 11, 1943. I’ve never forgotten the day. I went from brown shoes to black shoes. I retired as lieutenant colonel.

PRESCOTT LIVING: Have you returned to any of these places that you flew into? A holiday later in life? Did you ever go on vacation back to Sicily, Germany and back to France?

DAVID HAMILTON: I went back to Normandy in 1960 with my wife. Unfortunately, she got quite ill there. Most recently, on the 75th anniversary of Normandy, I was invited back to Lincolnshire, England, by the Commemorative Air Force (CAF). I was able to tour the base where I and my fellow pilots were trained for the Pathfinder

mission.

I am the last surviving pilot from those crews. They took me on a tour of the airfield. Now runways are overgrown, but when I was there, we had more than 3,000 American troops. I also got to fly in the

continued on page 130...

•

The ROX Interview (continued)

...continued from page 128

the English Channel back to Normandy. That was on June 5, 2019 — 75 years after I had flown over there. That is a

memory I shall treasure forever. They took us to the cemetery at Normandy. I was sitting right behind the French President Emmanuel Macron. I had my Legion of Honor medal on.

That’s the highest decoration the French can give you. I also had my other foreign medals, including the Order of William, given me by Holland. Mrs. Macron stepped up and wanted to personally greet all nine of us who were sitting on the stage.

I also saluted President Trump when he walked up front. I yelled at him, ‘Arizona loves you.’ Trump saluted me right back and said, ‘I love Arizona.’

Another memory I’ll treasure — being the guest of honor for the annual Wings Out West Air Show sponsored by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and the City of Prescott this past Oct 5. Once again, I got to fly in the D-Day Doll. The memories that rekindled — awesome.

PRESCOTT LIVING: We understand you recently were in-

ducted into the International Air and Space Hall of Fame at the San Diego Air and Space Museum.

DAVID HAMILTON: That was quite a celebration. On Nov.23, seven other persons and I were honored during a program planned by Jim Kidrick. He’s the president and CEO of the Air and Space Museum. His brother is a faculty member at Embry-Riddle in Prescott.

One of the people inducted was Jeff Bezos, the richest man in the world and the founder of Amazon. They picked him because of the aerospace exploration he is sponsoring.

I was the oldest guy there. When they gave me a standing ovation as an American hero, I choked up.

I think you’d agree with me that I’ve had an unusually rewarding life.

continued on page 156...

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Laura began a nursing career in 1977, working primarily in Geriatrics, then going on to specialize in Orthopedics, and several years in outpatient Psychiatry. She currently holds certification in Health Coaching.

In 2007, Laura began her career in Real Estate in Prescott Arizona. She is a resource in Real Estate on a national and local level for relocation and listing and is a certified negotiation expert.

Originally from Wisconsin, Laura, her husband Dean, and their three children moved to Prescott in 2002. Outside of work, Laura volunteers in many community events. She and her husband enjoy the many events offered in Prescott and love doing anything outdoors.

Oman has History, Mountains, Deserts — and Camels!

Who goes to Oman for a holiday?

Well, I do! Why not? It was one of the best trips in my life (and also country No. 45 for me).

How do you get to Oman?

Oman is just a short three- to fourhour drive from Dubai, United Arab Emirates, which is very easy to get to from all over the world; or, if you prefer to fly from Dubai, about an hour flight. Alternatively, Oman Air has easy connections into Muscat from all the major European capitals.

Where is Oman?

It is right in the Middle East, bordering the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Yemen on the Arabian Peninsula and has marine borders with Iraq and Pakistan. Many other often-thought-of-as “scary” places are also close including Iran, Afghanistan, Kuwait and many other Middle Eastern countries.

Is Oman safe?

Oman is often called the Switzerland of the Middle East, and never once did I feel unsafe in my five days there.

About Oman

The current capital, Muscat, has been a principal trading port of the Persian Gulf region for centuries and is also among the most important trading ports of the Indian Ocean. Oman has sizable oil resources, which provides a good quality of life for the people.

Until his recent death in January, 2020, the Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said was highly revered. He was the

by Elaine Earle, Publisher, Prescott LIVING Magazine

hereditary leader of the country, an absolute monarchy, since 1970. Sultan Qaboos was the longest-serving current ruler in the Middle East and the third-longest current reigning monarch in the world.

A significant portion of its economy involves tourism and trade of fish, dates and certain agricultural produce. Oman is categorized as a high-income economy and ranks as a peaceful country.

Oman is an Islamic country both in religion and in politics; sharia law is one of the sources of legislation. In our journey around the nation, we were told there are over 16,000 mosques to serve the total 5 million residents. Even with immigration and expatriates, over 85% of the population is Muslim and essentially 100% of Omani people are Muslim,

Oman Housing and Life

Every Omani is entitled by the constitution to a piece of land for either commercial, farm or residential purposes, though there is a backlog of applications for plots in some areas. We saw very nice, quality housing throughout the country (and mostly fancy, resort-looking homes).

We also learned Islamic families prefer to live together in multigenerational environments. Arranged marriage (including selection from birth) and men having multiple wives still exists and is practiced in Oman – up to four wives are allowed. What we’ve heard about Islamic traditions such as the role of the woman are still enforced as well in Oman — women wear modest clothing, can’t shop in certain places and certain hours, need permission from their husband to get a job, etc.

The economic system seems fair and equal for the people, and there appears to be little financial stress. Omani people have a very good qual-

Traveling • Dining • Entertainment

ity of life, especially for families; the quality of health care, education and entertainment is considered high.

What is there for a tourist to do in Oman?

Nizwa, a city with ancient and historical significance

Nizwa is one of the oldest cities in Oman and was its capital in the 6th and 7th centuries. It was a center of trade, religion, education and art. Its Jama (grand mosque) was formerly a center for Islamic learning.

We visited the cattle/goat market there, which was interesting to say the least. Men, including juvenile boys, sell cattle and goats by walking them around a circlular pen, and people bid on them like an auction. In other parts of the market, men sell chickens, birds, cats, fish, fruits, dates, vegetables and many other things. There are not any women shopping in these markets, (they can only shop at given times and locations). We were among a handful of tourists watching this live auction and market.

The “Desert”

In Oman, the whole country is what we would call a desert, similar to the southwestern U.S.; however, only the sand dune area is called the “desert.”

In the Wahiba Sands area we stayed in a Bedouin luxury tented camp and went “dune bashing” in a 4-wheel drive closed vehicle. This was great fun, and

I was very thankful for an experienced guide who confidently went up and down the dunes (often backwards) in our 4-wheel drive with no fear at all, although I was a bit scared!

The “Empty Quarter”

Roughly the size of France, the Empty Quarter holds about half of the sand that the Sahara Desert has in comparison. Very few people live in this area due to the extreme heat and lack of water and infrastructure. We did not visit this area; however, there are tours available, including some by camel.

The

Mountains

Oman has a rocky and mountainous terrain in certain regions, including toward the Sea of Oman in Muscat. We visited Al Jabal Al Akhdar, which rises to about 10,000 feet. You can only drive in the area in a 4-wheel drive even though it is a paved highway that leads you up the mountain. We stayed in a mountain resort that was unbelievable in quality and mountain vistas. Previous visitors include Princess Diana, and that visit provided the name of one mountain viewpoint; Diana Point.

Muscat, the capital of Oman

Muscat is the capital and largest city in Oman. Significant investment in infrastructure makes Oman amazingly

continued on page 138...

The economic system seems fair and equal for the people, and there appears to be little financial stress. Omani people have a very good quality of life, especially for families; the quality of health care, education and entertainment is considered high.

Phippen’s Western Art Show & Sale a Feast for Your Eyes

by Edd Kellerman, Executive Director, Phippen Museum

The Phippen Museum’s Western Art Show & Sale on Prescott’s historic Courthouse Plaza is a Memorial Day weekend tradition that has lasted more than 40 years. It’s an extremely popular event with art enthusiasts, Western collectors and tourists from far and wide. But it also draws some of the nation’s most talented artists. Many of today’s most well-known Western artists got their start as juried participants. And on May 23-25, another out-

standing presentation of fine art is on tap for the museum’s 46th annual Art Show & Sale. Artists from across the country display artwork in oil, watercolor, acrylic, mixed media, pastel, sculpture and drawing. And although this annual juried show features 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 17th anniversary of the museum’s Miniature Masterpiece Show & Sale. A unique and successful sale-bydraw event, it features more than 60 of the biggest names in the world of American Western art. And beginning on May 1, the artwork will be on display at the museum, 4701 Highway 89 North, and also on its website at www.phippenartmuseum. org. A special mini-masterpiece preview and catered reception will be held May 22 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 May 25 at 11 a.m.

Presented on the north steps of the courthouse, the Phippen’s Quick Draw art demonstrations will take place May 23-24 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’s still wet. These special art events are very well attended, so get there early to find a good spot to watch the artistic spectacle of artists “under the gun.”

And May 23 at 5:30 p.m. at the Phippen Museum, an exciting evening of Western fun will take place at its 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. Seating for this event is $30 per person and can be reserved by calling the museum at 928-778-1385.

And if that’s not enough to keep visitors entertained, the museum will also 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 2 and June 7 and immediately taken home.

Finally, a special Artist Award Ceremony will be held May 25 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. And with awards being 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. May 23-24, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on May 25. In addition, admission to this event and the Phippen Museum is 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. Phippen Museam is located at 4701 Highway 89 North.

…continued from page 135

The camel is highly revered, and we were told so many stories about the animal, including that sometimes they are even more revered than family members or children in the tribe. The camel is absolutely essential to the Bedouin tribes and their survival.

pristine, elegant and world-class. It was actually quite unbelievable. This is where you solidify your view of Oman as the Switzerland of the Middle East.

In Muscat, we visited the Grand Mosque, which the Sultan has opened up for tourism (unusual for Islamic mosques). With long sleeves and a veil on my head, I was able to tour both the outside and interior. Along with our guide, we were also provided coffee, dates and some books about Islam. I do believe that it is important for one to understand the religions of the world. I am not converting anytime soon, but I cherish the knowledge that I gained on this tour.

Bedouins

The definition of a Bedouin is “a nomadic Arab in the desert.” Despite today’s technology and infrastructure, including wealth offered by oil-rich Arab nations providing for its citizens, there are still a number of surviving pure Bedouin tribes. They choose and want this life; it is pure and they are connected to the desert spiritually and physically.

In Oman, the government has the wealth to provide for all of its people. In our travels around the country, we

saw some “social housing” that looked more like townhouses. This is housing provided to Bedouins so they can travel out of the mountains or desert and educate their children. Still, in so many ways, the Bedouins prefer to live in the desert with their camels and tents, surviving off the land.

Lastly and most importantly, let’s talk about the camels!

Oh man, the CAMEL! I am so impressed with the camels! I liked the camels so much I could make this whole article about them.

We were told the camel is not an animal; it is “one with man.”

Before the discovery of oil, which created major wealth in the region, Oman and a majority of the Arab world was made up of Bedouin tribes living off the land. The camel was an essential part of life. Camels are working animals especially suited for the desert environment and a vital method of transportation for people and goods. Camels provide milk and meat (if necessary), and we were told they can sense a source of water within 40 km, whereas camels themselves require little water to survive. Their bodies can also withstand extreme heat conditions. Their hair provides felt and fibers for textiles.

Camels are emotional creatures who connect especially with their owners. We were also told that a camel will sit at an owner’s grave after they die and appear to be in mourning.

I found all this about camels to be

true. I had the opportunity to ride a camel raised and trained by Bedouins. The camel looked me in the eye and it almost seemed like it was smiling! They are very keenly aware of humans and easy to interact with. At first, I was worried about the infamous camel “spit,” but fortunately it did not happen.

The camel is highly revered, and we were told so many stories about the animal, including that sometimes they are even more revered than family members or children in the tribe. The camel is absolutely essential to the Bedouin tribes and their survival.

In modern days, there are camel races that have brought some new wealth to the tribes, and funny enough, there is a 17-day camel beauty contest happening in Abu Dhabi at the time of the writing of this article.

Let’s go to Oman!

Want to go to Oman? I would go back with you. I would take my children there. It is a good education and experience for all to see this part of the world.

About Wild Frontiers

This trip to Oman was handled by Wild Frontiers. I would highly recommend them for private tours in many parts of the world, including Oman. For information, visit www.wildfrontierstravel.com or call Tori Ward at 928.254.9968 (tori@roxtravel.com).

(Source data: Wikipedia)

10 Myths About Travel Agents

MYTH 1: All Travel Agents and Agencies are the Same

FACT: EVERY Travel agent is different and has a different area that they specialize in. So, depending on what type of trip you are looking to take one travel agent will suit you better than another. That’s why it is important when planning a trip to find a travel agent that specializes in where you want to go.

MYTH 2: No One Uses Travel Agents Anymore

FACT: MILLENNIALS are the fastest growing population segment to use a travel agent, citing convenience as the primary factor. Travel agents book over 81% of all tours, packages and cruises.

MYTH 3: Travel Agents are Trying to Cheat Me if They Don’t Quote Me the Cheapest Price

FACT: TRAVEL agents know the ins and outs of different itineraries. While you might find one that is a little bit cheaper, that cheaper itinerary might involve a whole slew of headaches. For example, loner waits at the airport and odd travel times. A travel agent will be looking to get you the best value for your

Tori Ward 928-254-9968 or tori@roxtravel.com

MYTH 8: Travel Agents Have Lost Their Clout

money spent which should include the most direct and time friendly itinerary they can find. Unless you have told them you would prefer to have the cheaper options presented as well expect value to be a factor included in the trip they plan.

MYTH 4: It is Expensive to Use a Travel Agent

FACT: MOST agents receive their commission from the actual travel provider not the client. Some services may have a nominal fee, similar to other online booking sites.

MYTH 5: I Can Easily Book the Same Trip on My Own Without Using a Travel Agent

FACT: ALTHOUGH travel agents have access to all of the same outlets you would use when looking to book travel, they also have access to exclusive pricing and package deals that are most times not available to the public. Your travel agent also has more leverage in helping out in situations such as hotels claiming to be booked, when in fact they may still have rooms available that are on hold for travel agents reservations. So when everyone

else is telling you “No” your travel agent can help turn that to a “Yes”.

MYTH 6: Travel Agents Don’t Have Information as Updated as the Internet

FACT: TRAVEL agents obtain some of their information from the same sources as online booking sites. They also receive daily emails and faxes with new specials from resorts and hotels that may not be published on the internet. Travel agents can also call a place directly to see if they can work out the other kinds of special deals for you, something an online site can’t do.

MYTH 7: Travel Agents are a Waste of Time

FACT: ALTHOUGH you can find much of the same information that the travel agent provides for you on your own, you are going to spend a lot of valuable time doing so. A travel agent can actually save you from hours of painful research and price comparison shopping. They have up to date prices, hotel conditions, and interesting new activities. Their prior knowledge and experience gives them the upper hand in trip planning.

FACT: TRAVEL agents book hotels, cruises and activities every day. The companies that provide these services know that and want their business and will work to keep that business coming back. So while a place might be telling you “Sorry we are booked”, for you one time trip, they are more likely to make an exception for the travel agent to insure that the agent sends them more business in the future.

MYTH 9: The Need for Travel Agents is Being Replaced by the Internet

FACT: THERE are some things technology cannot replicate, and personal touch is one of them. The internet is a valuable resource, but it cannot replace the expertise, guidance and personal service of a travel agent. At a time when travelers are stressed out with hectic schedules, travel agents have all of the information at their fingertips, saving valuable hours of surfing on the web. Agents can also offer insider tips, generally based on personal experience.

MYTH 10: Travel Agents Can Only Book My Flight and Hotel

FACT: TRAVEL agents can arrange car service, personalized tours, activities and travel insurance, in addition to all the basic travel services they provide. They are also excellent sources of information concerning good restaurants, good sites to see, and tips on what to pack.

Pascua Yaqui Masks, Flute Making, Native Drums, and Native Music

Pascua Yaqui Masks, Flute Making, Native Drums, and Native Music

Reflect Alex Maldonado’s Ongoing Influence on Prescott Indian Art Market

Reflect Alex Maldonado’s Ongoing Influence on Prescott Indian Art Market

Alex Maldonado is one of several native artists that continues to be a driving force in the success of the Prescott Indian Art Market. Considered one the highest quality Indian Art Markets in the United States, PIAM has been blessed with his artistic vision, leadership and guidance almost since the beginning more than 23 years ago when he and a handful of Indian artists mapped out (on a restaurant napkin) their collective vision for an event that featured native art, not commercialized trinkets.

A Pascua Yaqui, Maldonado has been balancing his time between family, his artwork and performing his music. Beginning as a flute maker, he chose to better his craft by learning how to play the instrument. Self-taught, he makes each flute sound as beautiful as it looks, winning awards for his craftsmanship, for his musicality, and for his passion for preserving the heritage of his people.

“While researching my Yaqui heritage,” he explains, “I sensed a loss of identity because my ancestors would sometimes disguise their heritage in order to survive. Many traditions were lost because of this.

“In playing the flute and in creating my art, I feel a connection to my people – it’s one of the many victories in life knowing who you are and being proud of it.”

Looking to become more versatile as an artist, Maldonado began work on other instruments used by his Nation – not only musically

but artistically. He creates Yaqui harps, Pascola dancer carvings and masks, and gourd rattles used by Yaqui traditional dancers. He also makes native drums out of various woods in different widths and depths, each creating a different tone. His drums and artwork are on display at museums across the nation including the Smithsonian.

His Pascola masks are handmade out of various woods to resemble human faces or animals. Each mask has a unique design carved or painted onto it and is adorned with horse hair. Since each is created individually by hand, no two are alike.

Whether performing with a handmade flute, accompanying his family dancers, showcasing his drum artistry, mask making, or flute artistry, Alex Maldonado is a recognized artist of the Southwest and the 2020 featured artist at Prescott Indian Art Market, where he has served on the jury and council of this market providing guidance and direction that has benefited more than 100-150 artists annually at the venue (Sharlot Hall Museum, downtown Prescott).

“And it’s been a labor of love,” he explains, “not only creating my own art and performing the music of my people, but in encouraging others to pass the traditions on, from generation to generation, about the histories, heritage and cultures of our many ancestors.”

The juried Prescott Indian Art Market will be held at Sharlot Hall Museum on June 20-21. Admission to PIAM includes one-on-one access to all the artists, an up-close and personal inspection of the art, and complete access for viewing all Museum exhibits and historic buildings on the four-acre campus.

Admission: $10 for adults, Museum members $8, 17-under free. A two-day pass is available. Hours 9 am-5 pm Saturday, 9 am-4pm Sunday. For information, call: 928-445-3122 or check the website: www.sharlothallmuseum.org/PIAM

‘Little Flower’ LaGuardia Grew Up in Prescott, Gave Name to Bridge

by Kelly Tolbert, Recreation Coordinator, City of Prescott

Life in Prescott was memorable for young LaGuardia. The family inhabited the little A-frame house situated the on campus of Yavapai College.

The longtime controversial mayor of New York City, Fiorello H. LaGuardia spent his formative years as a Prescott resident. After moving around several cities, the LaGuardia family came to Prescott after leaving Fort Huachuca because young Fiorello’s (“The Little Flower” in Italian) father was stationed at the Fort Whipple barracks as the Bandmaster of Company C in the 11th United States Infantry.

Life in Prescott was memorable for young LaGuardia. The family inhabited the little A-frame house situated on the campus of Yavapai College. From there, he walked to school over a mile away on a rough dirt path. At the time, there were approximately

2,000 inhabitants consisting mostly of miners, cowboys, prospectors and cattlemen. Popular among the soldiers, little Fiorello went camping with them and learned to hunt at such a young age that an adult had to hold his rifle because he was so small in size.

Immigrants from Foggia, Italy, Fiorello’s parents (Achille Luigi Carlo and Irene LaGuardia) came to the United States in 1879, where Achille enlisted in the 11th Regiment of Infantry. Fiorello was born in a tenement on Manhattan’s Lower East Side in December 1882. Having moved around so much, Fiorello found Prescott to be “home” as a 10-year-old.

The family is said to have had ambiguous social status, inhabiting one type as a military family and an entirely different one in town. Achille LaGuardia was known as Prescott’s music teacher, Professor LaGuardia. This afforded unique opportunities to the LaGuardias such as entertaining cultured guests in their modest home.

Professor LaGuardia was said to have been handsome, well-dressed like “an Italian duke” and would travel around town to various social events to play the piano, with children Fiorello and Gemma accompanying on the violin and cornet.

Local history allows that Fiorello

graduated grammar school in January of 1898 with a speech titled “The Office Seeker’s Platform.” A persuasive leader from a young age, the family left Prescott just a few short months later when Professor LaGuardia’s infantry relocated to Mobile, Alabama to assist in the Spanish American War. Never actually graduating from high school, Fiorello was turned away by the Army because he was “underage, undersized, underweight but joined them through successful show of teenaged bravado and LaGuardia fluency,” a biographer wrote. The Little Flower was only 5 feet 2 inches in adulthood.

At the age of 20, Fiorello entered government service as clerk to the consul-general at Budapest. Two years later, he was made consular agent at Fiume, Italy but was asked to leave after offending some high-ranking officials by insisting on medical examinations for immigrants heading to the U.S. He decided to leave consular service and became an interpreter at Ellis Island while working his way through New York University Law School. After a short stint in Congress, Fiorello left Washington to join the Aviation Corps. He later became president of the Board of Aldermen of New York (which eventually became the New York City Council).

Effectively defeating Tammany

Hall, a historically corrupt political regime, LaGuardia ran as a Republican for the mayoral office and won on a fusion ticket with the support of then-Gov. Franklin D. Roosevelt. LaGuardia served as mayor of New York from 1934-1945, during which time he was known to behave controversially at best. For example, he would never accept invites to the White House, famously handing them out to children in the community, except once, and when he got to the door he said he “came to his senses and hid in a nearby movie parlor.”

During an interview with the Bronx Home News, he was quoted as saying, “Some of the lessons I learned about self-reliance in taking care of myself as a boy in Arizona are coming in handy now.”

Shortly after he was sworn in as mayor, LaGuardia returned to Prescott for the first time in 37 years in April 1935. Landing at Love Field, he was greeted by his childhood friend Mayor Charles F. Robb. Two years later he visited the area once again, this time for a special ceremony honoring his late father, (Professor) Achilles LaGuardia. On Sept. 15, 1938 a group gathered in the Granite Dells, near the highest point (modern-day Point of Rocks), naming it Point LaGuardia in honor of Prescott’s beloved music teacher.

In addition, Fiorello was reunited with a 2-foot model ship handcarved for him by a soldier some years back, a prized boyhood possession returned to its owner. He also led the Prescott High School Band while his classmates sang along and spoke to the students saying that these were “the happiest days of my life.” Honoring his father had become a mission after he died from eating tainted Army beef during the Spanish-American War, propelling Fiorello’s rage against profiteering, careless government and exploitation.

Fiorello LaGuardia was known as a skilled spaghetti maker, prankster and lover of beer and wine. He once manufactured his own beer during Prohibition as an attempt to get himself arrested, but he was unsuccessful as the authorities said his beer tasted too bad to arrest him.

He passed away on Sept. 20, 1947 after battling pancreatic cancer just two years after his last Sunday Radio Broadcast as mayor, leaving behind his wife Marie and two adopted children, Jean, 18, and Eric, 15.

He is said to have been New York City’s best mayor, accomplishing major improvements such as a new City prison, 67 schools built, along with 262 playgrounds, 14 vast housing projects, two hospitals, Triborough Bridge Network, Bronx-Whitestone Bridge, Queens Midtown Tunnel as

well as many others.

Prior to what would have been Fiorello’s 100th birthday, local Prescott residents began proposing efforts to honor the great leader who loved our city so much. Several years later, Charles Link and Budge Ruffner began making recommendations to the Yavapai County Board of Supervisors for a plaque to be installed on the Courthouse Plaza bandstand where young Fiorello and his father had performed years back.

The board rejected the proposal for the memorial on the bandstand so Mr. Ruffner approached the City of Prescott about placing the plaque on a new 300-foot bridge connecting Granite Creek Park to the north, a major connectivity route.

Finally, on March 16, 1991, locals gathered on site at the Whipple/3rd Street Improvement Project to dedicate the bridge with the plaque they helped pay for. The Mesa Territorial Band performed for the dedication while adorned in Prescott and Bisbee Band uniforms. Prescott’s LaGuardia Bridge was born; a proper memorial with strong symbolism in joining people, overcoming barriers and offering safe passage while honoring a great leader, as Budge Ruffner stated in his 1990s Prescott Courier column.

Special thanks to Sharlot Hall Archives and staff.

During an interview with the Bronx Home News, he was quoted as saying, “Some of the lessons I learned about selfreliance in taking care of myself as a boy in Arizona are coming in handy now.”

Special Section:

Greater Prescott is a pizza town. But then, pretty much every town is a pizza town.

The near-universal appeal of this particular kind of pie has even been scientifically proven, as much as such a subjective matter as taste can be. The American Chemical Society said a few years ago the properties of each of the staple ingredients and a chemical reaction in the oven ends up creating a food with near-universal appeal.

This gives every pizza maker a strong foundation for hitting a home run every time. At the same time, every one of them has their own secrets, their own add-ons which makes their product unique as well as delicious.

Here in the first Prescott LIVING food section, local restaurants will share a little about how their pizza stands out from the crowd, and readers will be able to chime in on Facebook about what they’re looking for in Prescott’s pizza.

PARK PLAZA LIQUOR AND DELI

Park Plaza & Liquor Deli

402 W. Goodwin St, Prescott (928) 541-9894

What type of pizza do you offer? (For example, New York or Chicago style, wood-fired, etc.)

Thin hand tossed and pan. Our pan is Detroit style that is square. We also offer gluten free crust. And we offer pizzas for vegan and Keto diets.

What’s the most popular pizza you serve at your establishment?

Our most popular specialty pizza is BBQ Chicken. But we offer build your own(BYO) as an option. You can customize any of our crust with your choice of any of our 60+ toppings to make it the perfect pizza for you. The BYO pizza as a group is our #1 seller over all.

Where did you learn how to make pizza?

Right here at Two Mamas Gourmet Pizzeria in Prescott.

In your opinion, what’s the “secret sauce” for a good pizza? Is it in the dough, the cheese, the sauce itself... or maybe something else entirely? Is it in the dough, the cheese, the sauce itself...or maybe something else entirely?

The main secret is in the dough. We use a sourdough starter and allow the dough to rise for two days, giving it a robust sourdough flavor. All of our pizzas are hand-tossed and stretched. Our quality ingredients and hand-cut toppings provide incredible flavors.

Where did you learn how to make pizza?

All of our pizza cooks were taught by Trevor Phillips, owner of Park Plaza, who created the pizza specialties himself. Collectively our pizza line has over 15 years of experience, and Trevor has worked for over 13 years meticulously experimenting and finetuning recipes based on customer feedback.

TWO MAMAS’ GOURMET PIZZERIA

Two Mamas’ Pizza 221 N. Cortez St, Prescott (928) 443-9455

LIMONCELLO PIZZERIA NAPOLETANA

Limoncello Pizzeria

218 W. Goodwin St, Prescott (480) 399-9978

BILL’S PIZZA

In your opinion, what’s the “secret sauce” for a good pizza? Is it in the dough, the cheese, the sauce itself... or maybe something else entirely?

Secret sauce is keep sauce very sauce.... Just crushed tomatoes San Marzano and sea salt.

The secret to make perfect pizza is use only fresh ingredients and experience for over 35 years.

How do you cook your pizza?

We cook our pizza for 90 seconds as Neapolitan tradition.

Where did you learn how to make pizza?

In Naples, Italy.

What’s the most popular pizza you serve at your establishment?

The Elton John - award winning at an International Pizza Competition!

How do you cook your pizza? With love, in a brick oven.

Where did you learn how to make pizza?

From Bill, the legend behind the Dinner Bell Cafe, Bill’s Pizza and Bill’s Grill!

107 S. Cortez St., Prescott (928) 443-0800

Two Mamas’ Pizzeria is Growing the Pie Options

by Keith Mantegna, owner, Two Mamas’ Gourmet Pizzeria

Here at Two Mamas’ Gourmet Pizzeria, we’re proud to serve the best pizzas we can. But we realize that for some people that won’t work. Whether for dietary, health or personal preference, the traditional pizza won’t do. We have always offered a variety of gluten-free crust options. We are not a gluten-free kitchen, but everyone from our servers, cooks and even delivery drivers are trained to prevent cross contamination. And that’s true of any allergies that our customers notify us of.

Recently we started offering two vegan pizzas. They start with an ancient grains gluten-free crust (made with smart flour), topped with pizza sauce and vegan cheese; then a choice of either Beyond Burger crumbles or traditional veggie patty crumble. The vegan cheese and the crumbles are available

as an add-on for any of our pizzas. Our newest addition is an all-sausage patty for the crust of an 8-inch pizza. We top that with pizza sauce and cheese. It is great for a keto or paleo diet. If your paleo is dairy-restrictive, we can hold the cheese as well!

We can add any of our over 60 toppings for only 99 cents each. But we also have something new for traditional pizza lovers. We have a 20inch pizza, but for only one-and-a-half times the price. You get a lot of pizza for the money with this one. For dessert you can order a hot fruit turnover; we take a small pizza dough, fill it with your choice of fruit filling (apply, cherry or blueberry), fold it in half, bake it and top it with warm icing.

Everyone here at Two Mamas’ Gourmet Pizzeria thanks you for your business. We really appreciate you and hope to see you soon.

PIZZA

Specialty Pizza or Build Your Own

Thin, Hand Tossed, or Pan Pizza

Small-Medium-Large-Xtra Large

Over 60 cheeses, meats, vegetables and custom toppings to choose from Gluten Free 10”, 12”, 14”

Individual Slices

SALADS

SMALL-MEDIUM-LARGE

Garden

Greek

Caesar

Chopped Salad

Spinach

Wedge

Antipasta

SUBS

15 to choose from

PASTA

Spaghetti

Penne

Rotini

Ravioli

Tortellini

WINGS

Regular / Boneless / Jumbo

8 flavors to choose from

Mini / Traditional / Jumbo Sizes include cheese and sauce and can add any pizza topping

and rewards

Dessert

Local beer, wine & spirits

GREATER PRESCOTT Take Out &

AUGIES

1721 State Route 69, Prescott 928-777-0330 www.augiesprescott.com

Takeout Only 11am - 3pm and 3pm - 6pm

BACKBURNER RESTAURANT

8400 E Long Mesa Dr, Prescott Valley 928-772-9298

Takeout & Delivery

BIG DADDY E’S BBQ

380 Butterfield Rd, Chino Valley 928-515-2344 www.bdebbq.com Takeout

BILL’S PIZZA

107 S Cortez St 928-443-0800 www.billspizzaprescott.com Carry Out Service

BLUE HILLS CAFÉ (STEVE & KATHY’S)

928-772-7893

Dewey, AZ

Bluehillscafeaz.com

Dinner served from 3 PM to 7 PM, Tuesday-Friday. Carryout only.

CARMELLA’S

120 N. Montezuma St., Prescott 928-277-4948 www.carmellaprescott.com

To-Go and Curbside Takeout (Food, Beer, & Wine). Happy Hour available 2pm - 5pm.

CASA GRANDE

443 Butterfield Rd., Chino Valley 928-636-7275

Takeout Orders

COLT BBQ

2970 N. Park Ave., Prescott Valley 928-277-1424 www.coltgrill.com

Lunch & Dinner Takeout

CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE

5707 E State Route 69, Prescott Valley 928-772-0447

locations.crackerbarrel.com/az/prescottvalley/655/ Takeout & Carry Out Service

CUPPERS COFFEE HOUSE

224 S. Montezuma St., Prescott

928-445-1636

Free Delivery

DAIRY QUEEN - PRESCOTT

3179 Willow Creek Rd., Prescott 928-777-0097

Drive Thru Services

DAIRY QUEEN - PRESCOTT VALLEY

8228 E State Rte 69, Prescott Valley 928-772-6517

Drive Thru Services

DANNY B’S FISH & CHIPS

501 N. Hwy 89, Chino Valley 928-277-0283

Takeout Service

12pm - 7pm Tuesday thru Sunday

DEVIL’S PANTRY

126 S Montezuma 928-277-0726

Carryout and Delivery (via Postmates) 11am - 6pm Monday thru Saturday

EL CHARRO NORTE

2879 Arizona Trl., Chino Valley 928-460-5869

www.elcharronorte.com Delivery & Takeout

EL GATO AZUL

316 W. Goodwin 928-445-1070

www.Elgatoazulprescott.com To-Go Menu

FARM A GO GO

Cornville. 928-202-4760 farmagogo.com/ Parking Lot Pick Up or Delivery

GURLEY STREET GRILL

230 W. Gurley Street, Downtown Prescott 928-445-3388

www.gurleystgrill.com

Offering To-Go or delivery for lunch or dinner. Pick-up of orders are being done from the Murphy’s Restaurant location.

HASSAYAMPA INN

122 E Gurley St, Prescott 928-777-9563

Menu: hassayampainn.com/dining Take-out and Curbside pick-up. Breakfast - Lunch - Dinner.

IRON CASK

5533 E State Route 69, Prescott Valley 928-515-2906

www.ironcask.com Takeout & Curbside Available

JED’S

150 S State Route 89, Chino Valley 928-636-5361

Curbside Pickup

LONE SPUR CAFE

106 W. Gurley St, Prescott 928-445-8202

www.lonespurcafe.com/ Takeout & To-Go Orders

LONESOME VALLEY BREWING

3040 N. Windsong Dr., Prescott Valley 928-515-3541

www.lonesomevalleybrewing.com/ curbside.html

Curbside pick-up for food, wine, growlers of beer

Monday thru Sunday 11:30am - 8:00pm

LOS PINOS MEXICAN RESTAURANT

1245 White Spar Rd., Prescott 928-541-1245

www.lospinosmexicanrestaurants.com Curbside Pickup or Delivery

LINDO MEXICAN RESTAURANTPRESCOTT

1260 Gail Gardner Way 928-277-0924

Takeout

LINDO MEXICAN RESTAURANTPrescott Valley 5684 E. Staet Hwy 69, Prescott Valley 928-277-1512

Takeout

LIMONCELLO PIZZERIA NAPOLETANA

218 W. Goodwin St., Prescott 928-582-1652

www.limoncelloitalianhomemadecompany.com

Delivery (no delivery fee)

LUCKY’S BBQ 171 E. Hwy 69, Dewey 928-623-0077

Takeout

MURPHY’S RESTAURANT

201 N. Cortez St., Prescott 928-445-4044

www.murphysprescott.com

Carryout Orders

Fresh and Dry Goods for Sale

PARK PLAZA & LIQUOR DELI

402 W. Goodwin St., Prescott 928-541-9894

www.parkplazaliquor.com/home

Pickup and Delivery (full restaurant menu, beer, wine & liquor!) Daily until 7 pm (Sundays 5PM)

Delivery Options

PRESCOTT FARMERS MARKET

928-713-1227

www.prescottfarmersmarket.org/ Food Boxes Available Purchases must be completed by Thursday at 12pm

RAVEN CAFE

142 N. Cortez St., Prescott 928-717-0009

www.ravencafe.com

Carryout and Curbside Pickup Beer, Wine, Food, and Coffee

REDWOODS GRILL

(AT PRESCOTT GOLF CLUB)

928-772-8812

1030 N Prescott Country Club Blvd www.prescottgolfclub.com/ Takeout & Curbside Pickup and Delivery to Prescott Country Club residential area

ROSA’S PIZZERIA

330 W. Gurley St., Prescott 928-445-7400

www.rosaspizzeria.com

To-Go Orders (Full menu and special take-and-bake menu)

SALLY B’S EXPRESS

7680 E State Route 69, Prescott Valley 928-772-2053

Take-Out and To-Go (Special and Full Menus available)

SCOOTER’S COFFEE - PRESCOTT

1004 E. Gurley St., Prescott 928-233-7770

scooterscoffee.com/stores/n-rush-st-egurley-st/ Drive-Thru Ordering

SCOOTER’S COFFEE - CHINO VALLEY

78 State Hwy 89, Chino Valley 928-515-8833

scooterscoffee.com/stores/hwy-89west-center/ Drive-Thru Ordering

SUSIE’S SKYWAY RESTAURANT

6001-6541 Airpark Dr., Prescott 928-445-6971

Takeout and Curbside Pickup

TEXAS ROADHOUSE - PRESCOTT

3310 Gateway Blvd., Prescott 928-778-7427

Mon - Friday 2pm - 8 pm and Sat - Sun 12pm - 8pm. (next line) Carryout and Curbside Pickup.

THE COPPER PIT

5860 N Robert Rd., Prescott Valley 928-237-9456 Pickup & Takeout

THE FINN

3150 Touchmark Blvd., Prescott 928-237-4834

www.thefinnprescott.com Offering drive-up carryout.

THE HAUNTED KITCHEN

216 S. Montezuma St., Prescott 928-350-8672

Curbside Pickup, Takeout, and Delivery

THE OFFICE CANTINA

128 N. Cortez St., Prescott 928-445-1211

www.theofficerestaurant.com Pick-up of orders are being done from the Murphy’s Restaurant location.

THE LOCAL

520 W. Sheldon St., Prescott 928-237-4724

www.localprescott.com Takeout, Curbside Pickup, and Delivery

THE FINAL SCORE SPORTS BAR & GRILL

1011 Commerce Dr., Prescott 928-778-2211

Curbside & Takeout Menu & Household Essentials

THE DRY GULCH STEAKHOUSE 1630 Adams Ave., Prescott 928-778-9693 www.drygulchsteakhouse.com

Curbside Pickup

THE HITCHIN POST BBQ 1120 S Hwy 89., Chino Valley 928-636-2300 www.thehitchinpostbbq.com Takeout, Pickup, and Delivery Full Menu, Dry Good, and Fresh Foods Available

THE HUNGRY BADGER ADVENTURE CATERING FOOD TRUCK

928-899-1721

www.the-hungry-badger-adventure. business.site Delivery & Curbside

TWO MAMAS’ GOURMET PIZZERIA 221 N Cortez Street, Prescott 928-443-9455 www.twomamaspizza.com/ Curbside Pickup and Delivery

Additions or Corrections?

Please add a comment, email jkahn@roxco.com, or send a Facebook message to Prescott LIVING Magazine. The Greater Prescott Take-Out & Delivery Options group is maintained by ROX Media Group and Prescott LIVING Magazine as a public service.

Hassayampa Happenings

THE PRESCOTT PIONEER

PRESCOTT • PRESCOTT VALLEY • CHINO VALLEY • DEWEY-HUMBOLDT

Fourth Grader Again Wins County Spelling Bee

Aliyah Alpert’s name has become quite familiar to officials administering the county and state spelling bees.

The 9-year-old won the 74th Yavapai County Spelling Bee for the second year in a row, and she once again qualifies for the Arizona State Spelling Bee.

Unfortunately, because of the coronavirus pandemic, the State Spelling Bee scheduled for March 21 was postponed indefinitely.

Nevertheless, the diminutive fourth grader can proudly claim she remains the youngest contender to compete in the prestigious competition. And she’s been doing that since she was a second grader.

Aliyah out-spelled 32 competitors from throughout the county during the Feb. 21 competition in Camp Verde. Contestants ranged from second to eighth grade. They came from public school, charter school and home school environments.

She opened the 13th round by first spelling “prorogue,” a Latin word meaning to discontinue a session of parliament without dissolving it. She then spelled the winning word “pathos,” a Greek word that means an experience or representation evoking compassion or pity.

Frustrated she can’t compete in the state contest, Aliyah nevertheless views it with a sense of humor and irony. She said,

“Yes, I am disappointed that the state spelling bee has been postponed.” But then she observed, “It does give me more time to study. I suppose the farther away it is, the more I can practice, so I think it’s for the best.”

During the past few months, Aliyah studied from the 4,000word list provided by the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Conducted every year since 1925 except for 1943-45 during World War II, the National Spelling Bee brings the best spellers in the nation to Washington, D.C. The winner in 2019 received a cash prize of $50,000 plus several other significant prizes and scholarships.

In winning the 2020 Yavapai County competition, Aliyah received $300 and a personalized plaque.

Last year, she received the same awards. In addition, in 2019, the homeschooled Prescott girl placed fifth in the state. The year before, 2018, when she was in the second grade, she was runner-up in the county competition.

Parents Mark and Brenda Alpert expressed pride in both Aliyah and her twin brother Jacob, who shows exceptional talent in music. “We’re proud of both Aliyah and Jacob because they are willing to work hard toward their goals — albeit, with a bit of encouragement from mom and dad.”

Both Aliyah and Jacob play mu-

sical instruments and have performed in country and bluegrass musical competitions, including the Payson Fiddle Contest.

The county spelling competition lasted 13 rounds and 155 words, with each round presenting more difficult words.

Others spellers who placed in the county competition were as follows: second place, Aiden Rose, an eighth grader from Oak Creek School, $200; Adam LaBaido, a seventh grader from Basis School Prescott, $150; and Rebecca Bond, a homeschooled eighth grader in Prescott, $100.

County Superintendent of Schools Tim Carter, who administers the annual spelling bee,

said of Aliyah, “It was so gratifying to see her return this year — her third. For her to win it as a third grader was remarkable. To win again this year — just exceptional.”

Carter praised the Prescott Sunrise Lions Club for its sponsorship of the competition. He also thanked Home Depot of Prescott, Taco Bell of Prescott Valley, and Fastenal of Prescott Valley for their donations.

He expressed appreciation to Yavapai College professor Tara O’Neill for her service as the word pronouncer, and to Kellie Burris, Karen Otis and Ray Newton, all Quad City residents, for serving as judges.

Arizona Community Foundation of Yavapai County to Award Grants to County Organizations

With more and more organizations seeking external funds to keep their activities moving forward, personnel at the Arizona Community Foundation (ACF)

of Yavapai County have a dauting task ahead in the next few weeks.

They must decide from among dozens of applications from throughout the county who will get how much during the forthcoming grant cycle.

Carol Chamberlain, regional director for the ACF, said more than 120 applications were submitted in 2019, and collectively

requested almost $1.4 million in grant funds. Of the 120 applications, 68 were approved last year for a cumulative $$469,809 in

Continued on page 160...

Accepting a $20,000 donation from Findlay Subaru-Prescott were representatives of the Yavapai Humane Society (l to r) Rich McClish, executive director; Rachel Kennel, behavioral specialist; Loree Mae Walden, marketing manager; Stacey Ostberg, community relations coordinator. Presenting the check were Subaru executives Darrin Rogers, service manager, and Dave “Mac” Macfarlane, general manager.

Findlay Subaru Gives Humane Society Major Donation

Record car sales, coupled with customer choice of a contribution recipient, made it possible for Findlay Subaru -Prescott to give the Yavapai County Humane Society (YHS) a cash donation of $20,000 as a part of the annual “Share the Love” philanthropic campaign Subaru sponsors.

A check for that amount was presented to YHS representatives on March 19. In accepting the check, Rich McClish, YHS executive director, said funds will be used to support the ever-increasing activities at the facility. He mentioned that needs had grown more acute, especially these past few weeks.

McClish and his three colleagues shared anecdotes about the YHS with several Subaru employees who asked questions about the organization. Some employees were surprised that the shelter, located at 1625 Sundog Ranch Road, just north of Prescott Lakes Parkway, annually was responsible for more than 3,000 animals. Animals ranged from dogs and cats and an occasional goat or sheep to the largest—horses, which are accommodated at the YHS Equine Center in Chino Valley.

YHS Marketing Manger Loree Mae Walden told Dave “Mac“ Macfarlane, general manager of Findlay Subaru-Prescott, that

support from Subaru and other donors will make possible some needed repairs and upgrading at the almost 50-year old YHS building and facilities.

Macfarlane emphasized that customers who purchased cars were the ones who made the decision about where contributions should go. “Last year was a great year for our dealership, and car buyers want to support organizations in our Quad City community.”

He explained, “For every new car we sell, we let the buyer decide where $250 should go as a charitable donation. This past year, more than 60 buyers said they wanted a gift to go to the YHS. Our local Subaru dealership threw in another $5,000. This is the largest donation we’ve given any charity in the three years Findlay Subaru has operated in Prescott.”

McClish told Macfarlane that the YHS was a 501 (c)3, non-profit organization that relied strongly upon gifts, grants and contributions to support its annual $3.2 million budget. ‘We are involved with protecting the health, safety and welfare of companion animals throughout Yavapai County. On occasion, we are asked to help shelters in other states, such as New Mexico, Utah and Nevada. We ae truly grateful for the support Findlay Subaru is giving us.”

Read more news on page 160...

Prescott LIVING Magazine Reader Correspondence From England!

“The

Day that The American Air Force Dropped In” (c 1944)

...continued from page 131

by Blake Herzog

This is not the first time David Hamilton has been in Prescott LIVING. His first appearance unearthed an episode in his life from 75 years ago.

A story by Ray Newton posted on www. prescottlivingmag.com in October highlighted the Prescott Valley resident as the guest of honor of last October’s Wings Out West Air Show, telling a bit of the story of the last surviving Pathfinder pilot from the D-Day invasion in June 1944.

The article was spotted on Facebook by Stuart Windsor of the village of Winkleigh, in the county of Devon on the peninsula that forms the southwestern tip of the island of Great Britain.

Windsor immediately recognized Hamilton’s name, for it was also the name of the

pilot of a U.S. warplane that crashed into his family’s farm during a storm, according to an Aug. 22, 1944 entry in the farmhouse’s guest book.

The incident is also recorded in the diary of his great-grandfather Tom Robins, who owned South Lydcott Farm on the edge of Exmoor, about 30 miles northeast of Winkleigh within what is now a national park.

“From the diary there were nine people on the plane that crashed in one of the outlying fields on the farm. The countryside is rolling hills, which then give way to open moorland,” Windsor wrote.

Everyone aboard the plane survived the crash, and Tom Robins and his wife Ella provided them with shelter and directions to the nearest Royal Air Force base, Windsor said.

“Tom and Ella would have been in their early 60s when the crash happened. I never knew my great grandparents, but there are family members who do recall the day that the American Air Force crew dropped in!” Windsor wrote.

“I think that they had a telephone on the farm at that time, and they made contact with RAF Chivenor, which is a few miles from Barnstaple, the main town in the area. I believe the crew were collected and taken to the RAF base. I also think the plane wreckage was guarded – but I don’t know why,” he added.

The crew’s stay at the farmhouse was brief, but it was also recorded with an entry in the Robins’ guest book signed by 1st Lt. David Blair Hamilton and two more airmen: “With grateful thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Robins for their kindness to

us after we crashed our aircraft on their farm during a bad storm on Aug. 22, 1944. Thank you again for offering us shelter and warm (sic).”

Windsor said his great-grandfather was well-known in his time for sitting on several of the UK’s war agriculture committees, which spearheaded an increase in food production. Tom Robins was given the Medal of the British Empire by the Queen Mother in 1954 for his efforts, he said.

When Hamilton was shown Windsor’s email, a smile spread across his face.

He recalled that he was asleep when his copilot flew the plane into the storm and was awakened so he could land it. He said the wreckage of his C-47, with a severed wing, was towed away.

“They repaired it, and it flew again!” Hamilton said. 

PRESCOTT PUBLIC LIBRARY

Prescott Public Library has lots of online resources to share with students, including the newly acquired TumbleBooks. We would love to help your students access these resources!

Get a library card: www.prescottlibrary.info/onlineaccount

Check out all our online resources: www.prescottlibrary.info/research

• TumbleBooks – ebooks, puzzles, and games for kids

• Mango Languages – learn a new language

• Britannica Library – an online encyclopedia

• Biography in Context – biographical information

• and many more resources to help with learning!

Personalized reading recommendations for your child’s age and reading level: youth.services@prescott-az.gov or 928.777.1518

Stay Connected: through our staff’s recommendations for lifelong learning and ways to explore the world online: www.prescottlibrary.info/category/stay-connected/

Please contact us if you have any questions about library services for your family. Stay connected to PPL!

THE PRESCOTT PIONEER

Kayla’s Hands Playground Being Renovated

Any given day, almost year-round, the popular children’s playground dedicated to Kayla Mueller has kids running, climbing and squealing as they scramble up and down slides and swings and climbing poles.

But from now until approximately May 10, the playground at 1200 Commerce Drive near Pioneer Park will be closed while a massive overhead cover is installed.

The playground was constructed and dedicated to honor Prescott native Kayla Mueller. Following her graduation from Northern Arizona University, she went to Syria to become a human rights activist. She was captured, tortured and killed by ISIS sometime in February 2015.

The park was constructed and dedicated to her on Aug. 27, 2016, when the late Sen. John McCain headed a group of distinguished national, federal, state and community leaders and honored her.

Funded through donations by a variety of local organizations, the cover is being in-

stalled by Bunger Steel Works, Carothers Concrete and the City of Prescott Recreation Services. APS is also participating.

Primary funding came from the Kiwanis Club of Prescott in cooperation with the City of Prescott. Other major contributors were the Harold James Family Trust, the J.S. Kieckhefer Foundation and the Margaret T. Morris Foundation.

The intent of the cover is to protect the surface of the playground from environmental deterioration and to provide overhead protection for youngsters from the external environment, said City of Prescott Director of Recreation Services Joe Baynes.

Recently, Gov. Doug Ducey asked Kayla’s parents, Karl and Marsha Mueller, to join him during his State of the State address in Prescott. While there, Ducey told the Muellers he was pushing to have a painting to commemorate their daughter placed in the Arizona State Capitol to honor someone he considered a “genuine Arizona hero.”

ment, music and art, children’s fund, social services and unrestricted.

grants awarded.

She said in 2020, she hopes to award almost $500,000 as grants.

Those decisions will be announced publicly during the annual “Joy of Giving” event on Aug.14 at the Prescott Resort, Chamberlain said.

Lisa Sahady, ACF regional philanthrop0ic adviser, said the application period for 2020 grants had closed Feb.21. ACF personnel are now reviewing applications. Among funding categories for which grants have been submitted as the following: children’s visual fund, healthcare, animal friends, environ-

She noted that applications came from communities and organizations from throughout the county. Sahady said the funding range to support grants ranges from $1,000 to $20,000.

She concluded, “It is only because of the generosity of persons from throughout Yavapai County, coupled with the power of endowment, that the ACF in our county can support so many deserving organizations. We are confident that 2020 is going to be a good year.”

For more information about the Arizona Community Foundation in Yavapai County, go to azfoundation.org/Yavapai.

Shakespeare in the Pines Will Return with ‘Merry Wives of Winslow’

by Tom Agostino, Marketing and Communications Coordinator, Highlands Center for Natural History

Shakespeare in the Pines will return to the Highlands Center for Natural History this summer as the Bard’s tale of Falstaff in love moseys over to the Old West in The Merry Wives of Winslow, a riotous whistle-stop on the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe.

The boisterous Sir John Falstaff comes to the small town of Winslow, bringing a taste for beef, beer and other men’s wives. Clever Mistress Ford and wily Mistress Page instantly see through his amorous ploys and use them to set him up and take him for a ride.

Disguises, duels and laughter win the day as Laark Productions brings the world of Falstaff, his friends and foes to the world of the Arizona Territory in 1888. Laark Productions’ inventive and immersive staging has proven to be a major draw for its productions.

The picturesque, natural setting of ponderosa pines is the site for this adaptation of Shakespeare’s Merry Wives of Windsor. June 19-20 and June 26-27, for the seventh summer, Shakespeare in the Pines will entertain and educate audiences in the Highlands Center’s outdoor amphitheater.

The evening begins with an opening reception, catered by El Gato Azul, with brews, wine, coffee and desserts from Petite Treats. Laark Productions invite the audience to become part of the play as the cast begins the performance among the guests at the reception.

Proceeds will go to support the center’s nature-based programs for children. For mem-

ber and group discounts, call 928-776-9550. Presented by Lamb Cadillac. For tickets: www. highlandscenter.org.

Don’t forget about the James Family Discovery Gardens

How about a walk in the woods in the Highlands Center’s accessible Discovery Gardens? Stroll along the creek on a paved path through Learning Circles illustrating the natural history of the Central Highlands of Arizona. Bring the kids and play on the boulders, sandbox and web in a natural forest play area. Listen to birds and the sounds of the forest in the Secret Nook or relax in the shade by the Gathering Circle. Through interpretive signs and displays you can discover how to choose and grow drought-tolerant plants for your garden and habitats and harvest water to sustain them.

Need a place for an outdoor event in a quiet, pristine forest setting? Rent the Ramada or the entire garden for your wedding or special gathering.

Naturalists will be in the gardens Saturday mornings to facilitate Discovery Stations on topics such as animals, plants, geology and the cycles in nature. Please check our website for dates for guided naturalist walks and special events.

The James Family Discovery Gardens are open Tuesday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., and are free to the public. For more information visit www.highlandscenter. org or call 928-776-9550.

As documented in the medical literature, immersion in nature can boost human immune systems and provide many other health benefits. We encourage families to continue to get outside and connect with the natural world as it may even be helpful for you.

The

Highlands Center for Natural History

Formed in 1996, the Highlands Center for Natural History is a nonprofit organization developed to foster an appreciation for and knowledge of the natural wonders of the Central Highlands of Arizona. The Highlands Center is a regional hub for lifelong learning, designed to invite discovery of the wonders of nature through on and offsite programs and includes an inviting venue for community events.

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