Prescott LIVING New Year 2023

The Voice of the Community

PRESCOTT’S PRIME SHOPPING

Medicare can be difficult to understand, especially if you are just beginning the process. You might be receiving large amounts of mailers and letters regarding your options, and it can be complicated to navigate through. But that’s what we do- we help you quickly understand, and make the right choices. There is never a cost for our advice, and there is no obligation to enroll. Our job is to help you understand, and earn your trust so when you do need a plan, you feel confident working with us!

When it comes to Medicare plans, one size does not fit all. Let us help you make a confident decision. We are licensed Medicare plan specialists, locally focused in Yavapai County since 2007. We help educate our clients by answering their questions and providing clarity. We can be as in depth or as concise as you’d like to be, and we are happy to meet in person or by phone. We know ALL the plans in Arizona, and can help

select the right one this year, as well as help you year after year.

Do you need help understanding the Medicare process?

EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

A1

Able

Allied

Arizona Field Optics..................................................................................173

Arizona

Bashford Courts..............................................................................................6

Bella Home Furnishings.............................................................................8

Blushing Cactus Photography...........................................................92

Bubblegum Bliss..........................................................................................93

Cardiac Care.................................................................................................53

Chubby

Coldwell Banker Realty - Peter Fife...................................................4

Northern Arizona Social LLC.................................................................56

Northpoint Expeditionary Learning Academy.......................103

Optima Medical...........................................................................................45

Patriot Pest & Termite Control..........................................................135

Phippen Museum.......................................................................................167

Pioneer Title Agency - Angel Skinner..........................................143

Ponderosa Hotel Group........................................................................155

Prescott Chamber of Commerce...............................................11, 27

Prescott Flooring Brokers.....................................................................145

Prescott Junction Restaurant...........................................................167

Prescott Maid To Order............................................................................61

Prescott Outpatient Surgical Center.............................................39

Prescott Unified School District.........................................................101

Prescott Women’s Clinic.................................................................51, 59

Purple Clover Boutique............................................................................91

Realty ONE Group Mountain Desert - John Murphy...........141

Rogers Academy of Beauty.......................................................89, 103

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s Int’l Realty.......................................................144

Russ Lyon Sotheby’s Int’l Realty - Laura Spaeth...................35

S&M Electric, Inc.........................................................................................130

Sacred Heart Catholic School..........................................................105

Sharlot Hall Museum......................................................................33, 162

SHARP-Senior Health and Retirement Professionals...........13

Streets of New York - Prescott..........................................................166

SugarPine.......................................................................................................138

The Doctor’s Office.....................................................................................47

The Natural Healing Garden.................................................................51

Thumb Butte Medical Center.............................................................49

Totally Floored................................................................................................19

Wade’s Furniture........................................................................................139

Whiskey River Tavern...............................................................................151

Willbuilt Seamless Gutters..................................................................139 Willow Creek Charter..............................................................................105

Wilson Aesthetics Beauty & Wellness.........................................179 Woodside Homes......................................................................................129

Yavapai Block Company.......................................................................131

Yavapai College Performing Arts Center.................................153

Yavapai Humane Society.............................................................112-117 ZebraScapes LLC.......................................................................................123

Bea Lueck Vice President, Operations

Abigail Biegert Graphic Designer

Elaine M. Earle Executive Publisher

Julie Turetzky Director of Public Relations

Jennifer Hunter Digital Media Representative

Jenna Leatherman Executive Sales and Marketing Assistant

Laurie Fisher Associate Publisher

Jacey Bailey Executive Sales and

From the Publisher A Community OF HEROES

As we mark the end of one year and the beginning of another, we’re here to celebrate the things that stay the same as well as those that change.

At the same time we resolve to chart new courses for ourselves when it comes to our health, finances, relationships and everything else that matters to us, we also honor the core values we live by.

Those values play a role in many of our resolutions as we commit to taking more responsibility for ourselves and others and sticking to a plan until we see the results.

This is a form of heroism, as we push ourselves to go beyond what’s expected of us and improve life over the long term.

Whether you’re working on behalf of yourself or someone else, you’re making the world a brighter place. That’s part of why we celebrate heroes along with new beginnings in Prescott LIVING’s winter issues.

Inside this issue we’re putting a special focus on our community heroes, those who labor every day to improve other people’s present and future conditions. The centerpieces this year are the Yavapai County Education Foundation’s (YCEF) “Teacher Hero” stories.

These educators are building up the future for our youth so they can develop their skills and discover the strengths they can carry on in their careers and relationships, putting themselves onto the ever-growing list of heroes.

We’re also featuring the anti-drug abuse group MATFORCE and its Executive Director Merilee Fowler, K-9 officers and their four-legged partners as funds are raised for special protective vests for the dogs, and how City of Prescott voters rallied to pay off its debt to the state’s public safety retirement system through a sales tax that has reached its benchmark for sunsetting five years early. This shored up the future of our first responders as well as funding for other municipal services, provided by more community heroes.

Heroes can be found throughout Prescott, Prescott Valley, Chino Valley, Dewey-Humboldt and just about every other community. As we move into 2023 let’s raise a toast to all the heroes in our lives and the new beginning they provide for all of us!

“These educators are building up the future for our youth so they can develop their skills and discover the strengths they can carry on in their careers and relationships, putting themselves onto the ever-growing list of heroes. ”

Elaine Earle

Elaine Earle Publisher, Prescott LIVING Magazine

Voices of the Community

At Prescott LIVING Magazine, our slogan is “The Voice of the Community” because we believe the stories in our local region are best told by the people, companies, nonprofits and governments that comprise our community. Here are the “voices” who helped make this issue possible!

Tod Christensen

Managing Broker, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, Sedona

Kell Palguta

Mayor, Town of Prescott Valley

Sheri L. Heiney President/CEO, Prescott Chamber of Commerce

Ken Lain

Owner, Watters Garden Center

Maggie Tidaback

Economic Development Project Manager, Town of Chino Valley

Marnie Uhl

President & CEO, Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce

Loree Walden Marketing Manager, Yavapai Humane Society

Donna Werking Owner, Marketing Agency Northern Arizona Social, LLC

John Hughes Mayor, Town of Dewey-Humboldt

Phil Goode Mayor, City of Prescott

Jack Miller Mayor, Town of Chino Valley

Michelle Stacy-Schroeder Recreation Services Administrative Supervisor, City of Prescott

Findlay Subaru-Prescott Gives $12,500 Grants to 25 Teachers

Recognizing that difficult economic times have made it hard for parents to provide all the necessary back-to-school supplies needed, Findlay SubaruPrescott, working with the Yavapai County Education Foundation selected 25 teachers in schools throughout Yavapai County to receive $500 each.

Each teacher will select needy students in their classes and give them funds to buy school supplies.

David “Mac” Macfarlane, Subaru general manager, and Mike Ellegood, YCEF president, presented the grants Sept. 24 at the dealership.

Ellegood praised Findlay Subaru-Prescott for “its ongoing support of education, teachers and students throughout the county for the past several years.”

Recipients included: Jessica Marks, Aspire High School, Prescott; Leah Cunningham, Bagdad Middle and High School; Melissa Howe, Camp Verde Elementary; Jesse Luera, Camp Verde High; Janice Fortier, Canyon Elementary, Black Canyon City; Macie Fincher, Chino Valley High School; Samantha Freeman, Clarkdale-Jerome Elementary; Lily Davis, Cottonwood Community School; Kami Gastineau, Coyote Springs; Lacey Coonfield, Daniel Bright School, Prescott Valley; Anika Van Orden, Heritage Middle School, Chino Valley; Melissa Walker, Humboldt Elementary, Prescott Valley; Kim Dillon, Lincoln School, Prescott; Naomi Akans, Mingus Springs Charter, Chino Valley; Mike Dougherty, for seven Mountain Institute Career Technical Educational

District (MICTED) schools; Deborah Griffin, Mountain View Elementary, Prescott Valley; Taylor Kelling, Northpoint Expeditionary Academy, Prescott; Becky Fitch, PACE, Prescott Valley; Lori Stuckman, Prescott Lakes Parkway School; Bob Wentsch, Sedona Charter School; Elizabeth Tavased, West Sedona Elementary; Katie Sevey, Willow Creek Charter, Prescott; and Ginger Flaumenhaft, Yavapai County High School, Prescott Valley.

Yavapai County Superintendent of Schools Tim Carter said he was especially proud of local businesses that used their influence to do some positive for education.

Macfarlane said the grants had increased by $2,500 from last year and would increase to $15,000 in 2023.

PRESCOTT

Photo by Ray Newton

by

Prescott Town Hall Focuses on Mental Health, Substance Use, Homelessness

Dozens of Yavapai County residents participated in a Prescott Town Hall that centered on mental health, substance use and homelessness.

The half-day meeting was led by Tara Jackson, president of the statewide nonprofit organization Arizona Town Hall and by Pat Norris, retired judge and immediate past president of the Arizona Town Hall board of directors.

The group was hosted by EmbryRiddle Aeronautical University Chancellor Anette Karlsson, who emphasized the topics affected every aspect of communities across Arizona, saying no one was immune from the sometimestragic consequences of mental heal issues, substance use and homeless.

Representatives from a diverse spectrum of the greater community — legal, judicial, governmental, medical, educational,

religious, financial and others — held small group discussions in which emphasis was not necessarily reaching agreement about every question but rather upon letting every individual express an opinion without fear of recrimination.

Key conclusions reached by the more than 40 participants included:

• The issues of mental health, substance use and homelessness are interrelated and integrated. They cannot be thought of in isolation.

• Society needs to better support people in need, not ignore them.

• Issues need to be addressed holistically, not insularly.

• Organizations and communities need to create as much as possible “one-stop shopping” for information, education, databases and resources.

• Communities need to encourage

affordable housing, more public transportation, and flexible debt payment options to be shared with people with such needs. They cannot be ignored.

Jackson and Norris said collective comments would be taken to a larger upcoming statewide Arizona Town Hall and shared with participants from the entire state. Ultimately, results from meetings across the state, coupled to the statewide meeting, will be summarized and shared throughout Arizona with governmental, legislative, social and service agencies, educational institutions. “Anyone,” Norris said, “who wants a comprehensive view of how Arizona’s man-on-the-street population views these significant issues.”

More information about Arizona Town Hall is available at www.aztownhall.org or by calling 602.252.9600.

Inventive, ResourcefulTEACHERS SPARK ACTIVE LEARNING

by: Michael S. Ellegood, PE, President, Yavapai County Education Foundation

In his book, “Shop Class as Soulcraft,” Matthew B. Crawford laments the decline of shop class in schools and examines the importance of the mind-hands connection in student achievement and success. With more and more emphasis on test scores and computer literacy in schools, students continue to be denied these important learning opportunities.

Fortunately, heroic teachers are devising new ways to reinforce classroom and online learning through hands-on activity, regardless of a gap

in available funding. Studies show that average classroom teachers spend between $400 and $700 annually, out of their own pockets, to support their classrooms with basic supplies as well as active learning opportunities.

Educators, schooled in teaching theory, know that students learn auditorily through listening, visually through reading and tactilely through hands-on experience. In most of our current learning environments, students are taught through classroom lectures (auditorily) and homework

assignments often involving reading (visually), but hands-on experience is offered in just a few laboratory courses — a crucial leg in the three-legged stool of education.

Here in Yavapai County, several of our schools are using hands-on learning to drive home the lessons of lecture, book and online instruction. On the following pages you will see how three teachers, who each won a $500 classroom grant from the Yavapai County Education Foundation (YCEF), are making this possible.

“If you have to put someone on a pedestal, put teachers. They are society’s heroes.”

—GUY KAWASAKI

Success stories from the Yavapai County Education Foundation

Josh Steinberg

HERITAGE MIDDLE SCHOOL, CHINO VALLEY

With Josh Steinberg’s help, Heritage Middle School in the Chino Valley Unified School District is bucking the trend moving away from shop class. With vision and entrepreneurial drive, the middle school teacher and woodworker has found a way to bring back hands-on learning.

Steinberg started a woodworking shop in what used to be a weight room at Heritage after seeing a need for his middle school students who were undergoing the transition from child to young adult. He saw the need for these students to set themselves up for success.

Although the room was not climatecontrolled, had poor lighting and inadequate electrical power to use woodworking machinery, that didn’t stop the determined teacher. The school district installed 200 Amp power and improved the lighting, as well as installing HVAC.

But finding the appropriate equipment was up to Steinberg.

Prowling Craigslist and other sources for secondhand equipment, he acquired tools including workbenches, saws, chisels and other hand and power tools to stock the shop. Steinberg used his own money to purchase much of the equipment with some money donated by community members. He scrounged materials from a local woodworking shop and after receiving a $500 classroom grant from YCEF, he purchased shop supplies including saw blades, glue and personal safety equipment.

Today the shop/classroom is in full operation with 79 enthusiastic students in six classes and a waiting list for future classes.Students learn to measure, calculate, work as a team, self-motivate and make something long-lasting using the mind-hand connection. These are skills they will use for a lifetime.

THE STUDENTS ARE SAYING:

“This class is helping build a future. I’ve already made so many things, thanks to having a great teacher. I have learned some good life skills.”

—BOSTON SOZA

“What I like most about woodshop is being able to create whatever pops up in my mind, like for Christmas and birthdays and being able to make any logo, animal, pens and all of that nature.”

—LEAH PARKER

WHAT

Cody Kukulski BEAVER CREEK SCHOOL, RIMROCK

Beaver Creek School is a public school offering preschool and K-8 classes in the Verde Valley community of Rimrock. The staff and faculty of Beaver Creek, including teacher Cody Kukulski, recognize the value of handson experience to the overall educational environment.

Using grant funds from YCEF, Kukulski directed students to create a welcoming and useful outdoor classroom. The students were hands on for most of the work including

design and planning, measuring and developing material lists. But most importantly, the students jumped into production wielding hammers and saws, all under Kukulski’s supervision.

The finished product includes tree stumps and benches for seating, a chalkboard, a raised planter bed and a blue tarp for a sunscreen. The garden and the finished project are a source of pride for students and staff alike.

THE PERKS OF OUTDOOR LEARNING

Research has revealed many benefits to outdoor learning, a fact that came back into focus during the pandemic as schools scrambled for ways to make in-person learning possible. Some experts have encouraged teachers to continue to find ways to take their lessons outside for these benefits and others:

• School performance increases when children learn outdoors.

• Learning outdoors is healthy.

• Learning outdoors supports child development.

• Teaching and learning outdoors is fun.

• Learning outdoors helps develop a sense of place and civic attitudes and behaviors.

• Outdoor education engages families and the community.

Source: University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point

Ashley Fine SKYVIEW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, PRESCOTT

At Skyview Elementary School, a public charter school in Prescott, Ashley Fine is using food as a learning tool for her K-8 students. Through her project titled, “Understanding Food Systems, Connecting Culture and Agriculture through Carrots,” Fine is teaching her students using the popular vegetable. Students research the history of carrots, discovering that they originated as a food source in Afghanistan, were used as a medicine, exported throughout the Middle East and Europe and then to the United States as a food source.

This approach integrates world history, current world events, nutrition and plant biology into her students’ education.

In addition to these classroom studies and to drive the lessons home, Fine’s students constructed planter boxes on school grounds and planted, grew, cared for and later harvested their bounty of carrots. To top the learning experience off, she and her students prepared carrot cakes for everyone to enjoy.

This project integrated classroom learning, reading, research and hands-on reinforcement of learning and reading. The students measured, constructed, researched and developed their own natural fertilizer and cared for their plants throughout the school year.

BENEFITS OF SCHOOL GARDENS

• Boost self esteem.

• Teaches sustainability.

• Teaches students to plant, care for and harvest food.

• Teaches life skills.

• Teaches math and science skills.

• Increases exercise.

• Teaches nutrition.

• Students are more likely to try something they grew.

• Improves student absenteeism rates.

• Reduces vandalism and increases students’ pride in their school.

Source: Arizona Department of Health Services

Mayor Phil Goode

PRESCOTT

“The City of Prescott is about to undertake the update and adoption of the 2025 General Plan. The General Plan is the public document that guides the future of a city. Per Arizona Revised Statutes, General Plans must be thoroughly reviewed and updated every 10 years. In 2015, Prescott adopted its most recent update, which can be accessed by visiting the City’s website (www.prescott-az.gov/business-development/planning/general-plan).

“Prescott must adopt an updated general plan by the end of 2025. To undertake this effort, the City has created a General Plan Project Team led by the Community Development Department, consisting of City staff from all departments and will include input from our regional partners such as the Town of Prescott Valley, the Town of Chino Valley, Yavapai County, the Central Yavapai Metropolitan Planning Organization, and other local and regional organizations.

“To assist the project team, the City Council has appointed an 11-citizen General Plan Committee. This committee will play an integral role in the extensive public outreach process planned for 2023.

“The project team will utilize the input gathered from Prescott residents and develop a draft document for the General Plan Committee to review. This draft will be presented to the City’s Planning and Zoning Commission for a recommendation and then to the City Council for approval. With that approval, the General Plan must then be ratified by the residents of Prescott to become effective.

“The ratification follows the same process as a referendum. The voters of Prescott will have the General Plan on the ballot in the City’s primary election, August of 2025.”

Community Events

WildLights & Animal Sights

Fridays and Saturdays through Dec. 31, 6 to 9 p.m.

Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary 1403 Heritage Park Rd.

The park will be filled with festive holiday decorations, music and magical light displays. Don’t forget to visit the gift shop for those special holiday gifts! www.heritageparkzoo.org/index.php/ events/wildlights-and-holiday-events

First Christmas Village & ChristkindlMarket

Dec. 16 through Dec. 18; 4 to 8 p.m. on Friday; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, Goodwin Street. Holiday vendors, a Kids Zone, Music, Horse Drawn Carriage Rides and Beer & Mulled Wine Garden will be available. 928.445.2000 and www.prescott.org

Whiskey Row

New Year's Eve Boot Drop Dec. 31, 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m

Ready to give 2022 the boot? Ring in the New Year in downtown Prescott, Arizona. Watch the festive 6-foot illuminated cowboy boot lower down from a 40-foot flagpole from atop the historic Palace building with 2 drops; the first at 10pm and the second drop at midnight. As the crowd cheers in the New Year, fireworks will light up the night sky. Free event for all ages.

More information at PrescottChamber/Facebook.com, www.prescott.org and 928.445.2000.

2023 DADDY/DAUGHTER DANCE AND FIRST EVER ADULT PROM!

Prescott Valley’s Daddy/ Daughter Dance will take place Saturday, Feb. 11 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will feature a high noon tea party, pony rides, music, and more in a heated outdoor venue. The fun will happen at the Prescott Valley Civic Center campus and for daughters ages 3 to 14.

Cost is $40 for each daddy/ daughter pair, and $20 for each additional daughter.

That evening adults can attend Prescott Valley’s first ever Adult Prom with a Regency era twist. Come dressed to the nines and enjoy great music, atmosphere and delicious food from 6 to 9 p.m., also at the Civic Center. The event is for ages 18 and older; cost will be announced as plans finalized.

Mayor Kell Palguta

PRESCOTT VALLEY

“In the past year the Prescott Valley Town Council and staff have taken on a multipronged approach to a variety of different projects throughout Prescott Valley. Thanks to the hard work of staff and their vision for Prescott Valley, we have made more great strides in the areas of water conservation, public transportation, public safety technology and infrastructure improvements than any other year in the history of Prescott Valley.

"Changes and improvements do not happen overnight, especially in government, so that is why it is important to let each of our residents know that exciting things are happening to make Prescott Valley an even better place to call home.”

Mayor Kell Palguta

PRESCOTT VALLEY RECREATION CLASSES

Total 360: Pilates, Yoga, Balance This class, taught by NFPT certified Master personal trainer Michael A. Rodgers, is designed to teach people how to breathe, stretch, elongate and build core strength.

Remaining dates are: Saturdays, 10:15 to 11 a.m., Jan. 7-28 and February 4-25

Location: Boys and Girls Club Gym Ages: 15 & older Cost: $30/4-week session

GROUP ADULT PICKLEBALL LESSONS

Sign up for weekly group pickleball lessons! Whether at a beginner or intermediate level, develop your skills.

Tuesdays, 8 to 9 a.m. or 9 to 10 a.m.

Location: Santa Fe Station Park Ages: 18 & older Cost: $60/4 weeks

BEGINNER BALLET

Enjoy the excitement and beauty of classical ballet with certified instructor Hector Rivera! This beginning level class develops an awareness of alignment and basic ballet vocabulary and technique.

Thursdays, 4:15 to 5 p.m., December through February

Location: Civic Center, 3rd floor Activity Room Ages: 3-7 years Cost: $32/4-week session, $40/5-week session

For more information, please contact Community Services at 928.759.3090.

Town of CHINO VALLEY

“

“I think Chino comes down to three things: front porches, iced tea and neighbors. The front porch goes with the atmosphere, sitting out in the evening. The iced tea goes back to the good water that we have here, and then the neighbors. This town is small enough that if you’ve been here for very long everybody here is your neighbor.”

—Mayor Jack Miller

Jingle Bash at Chino Valley High School

• Dec. 2 and Dec. 3 — from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Vendors can sign up for $100. Call the Chino Valley Chamber to sign up at 928.636.2493

• This event will be a little marketplace with local vendors and a mixer.

December to Remember

• Dec. 10, 4 p.m., Memory Park, 1020 Palomino Rd.

• Join us for a tree lighting event with Santa, carolers, food trucks and hot chocolate and businesses will also have Christmas displays set up.

Santa Visits the Library

• Dec. 16, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Chino Valley Equestrian Park Events

• Premier Member Riding Access 7 days a week 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

• General Member Open Riding Tues, Fri, and Sun 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Compass Training Center

• Arizona concealed weapons permit course, Dec. 15, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Find Your Gun-Pistols, Dec. 18, noon to 4 p.m. — You will have the opportunity to try out different calibers, sizes and styles of handguns, all for the cost of ammunition only. You will be provided with instruction on use of the pistol, proper loading, unloading, grip and stance. Cost is $50 for 50 rounds.

Call the Chino Valley Recreation Department for additional information on upcoming events at 928.636.9780.

Town of DEWEY-HUMBOLDT

Dewey-Humboldt: Town Manager Opening and More Arizona’s Country Town is seeking a new town manager. This person will have the opportunity to work in a historic, growing community with plenty of potential. The community of Dewey-Humboldt places a high value on private property rights and open and transparent government.

As the Town’s chief administrative officer, the town manager oversees all administrative functions, supervises all professional and clerical staff, develops and recommends the annual operating budget, and implements the Council’s policies and decisions.

The Town contracts with a town attorney, finance manager, IT support, the Yavapai County Free Library District for library services, and the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office (YCSO) for police services. Fire services are provided by the Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority (CAFMA).

MAYOR POWER HOUR

Meet and greet Mayor John Hughes and local elected officials for beverages and conversation Dec. 19 from 6 to 7 p.m. at Cherry Creek Ranch, 938 S. Foothill Drive. 928.848.8717

The fiscal year 2022-23 budget is $8 million and supports nine full-time employees and three part-time employees. Dewey-Humboldt provides residents with an array of municipal services including planning, permitting, zoning and public works, as well as financial, human resources, risk management, and emergency management functions.

A sampling of projects and items immediately needing the Town Manager’s attention include: partnering with the USDA for rural business development grants and rural loan programs; a General Plan update; a new Town Hall; and reuse options for a Superfund site located within the town limits. Requirements for this position are online.

To apply, email an application, cover letter, resume and five professional references to hr@dhaz.gov. The first review of applications began Dec. 2; the position will be open until filled.

EDUCATION

Come to Cherry Creek Ranch Venue & Events Dec. 15, 3 to 5 p.m. to meet local author Michael Eastwood and hear First Lady of Dewey Carie Hughes read from four books of Eastwood’s about the adventures of Cowboy Mike and Winston.

Cowboy Mike rescued Winston, a miniature pony, in 2016 and started Pony 4 Precious, a 501(c)(3) charity, to offer free online education and training programs for little ones all over the globe.

The books are especially perfect for babies and preschoolers; 100% of the book sales proceeds are donated to the charity.

John Hughes, Mayor, Town of Dewey-Humboldt

Sharlot Hall’s words are as true today as they were 100 years ago. That is why the Sharlot Hall Museum is dedicated to bringing you that knowledge in an interesting, interactive, and fun way.

From school groups and families to researchers and journalists, we are devoted to preserving and presenting Arizona’s story. We are embracing innovative ways of documenting the stories of our community, as well as making more of our40,000 objects and huge archival collections accessible through exhibits, programming, and online platforms.

While we adhere to Sharlot’s goal to “make one dollar do the work of ten,” these efforts are expensive. Your gift will keep the Sharlot Hall Museum healthy and serving our great community.

Complete your gift list at the Museum Store with books, Museum merch, Arizona gifts, and more! Museum members enjoy 10% their purchase.

RESOLVE TO MAKE YOUR

Resolutions a Reality

by Blake Herzog

The people, places and things urging you to make New Year’s resolutions are inescapable this time of year — and so are the discouraging statistics about how many people stick with their resolutions.

But there are ways around this. Setting specific and achievable goals is a biggie, along with keeping the consequences of not meeting your goals at front of mind.

You can try “bundling” your temptations with your resolutions by reading or listening to your favorite guilty-pleasure novels while working out. It also may help to not spend too much time fantasizing about how great life will be once you reach your goals, which can set up unrealistic expectations.

These are broad suggestions for those looking for a resolution to propel them into the new year — you can set specific goals that apply to your life.

SET AND STICK TO A BUDGET

This is getting increasingly important so, if you aren’t already, take some steps to figure out how much you can realistically spend per month, then break it down per week.

Track all of your spending, plan for upcoming events and expenses and stash as much as you can away in savings or sensible investments. This is easier than it sounds with

spreadsheets and budgeting apps, and even meal planning can have a huge impact on the bottom line.

EAT MORE SUPERFOODS

There is no universal definition, but these generally are unprocessed, relatively low-calorie and include considerable amounts of important nutrients like antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and fiber.

Some of the most readily available foods that tend to make these lists are carrots, spinach, avocado, berries (especially blue), tomatoes, walnuts, eggs and salmon.

SPEND MORE TIME WALKING/RUNNING

Getting and keeping fit may be the most frequently made resolution given how stores tend to replace holiday-specific inventory with yoga

mats, barbells and treadmills.

But if you’re sensing these might be space-takers instead of calorie burners, then start out incorporating more walking or running into your routine, either at a designated time or by expanding your modes of transportation for work or errands.

REDUCE CLUTTER/CLEAN

Once you have a hard time finding what you need or feel too drained by the mess around your house to even think about doing anything about it, it’s time for an intervention, hopefully by yourself.

The fresh start of the new year may be the best time

to change your habits in this arena. Set aside a little time each day to wipe things down and throw out incidental trash so it never becomes overwhelming.

LEARN A NEW SKILL

Think of something you’ve always wanted to learn or something that’s come up recently that would help you get ahead at work or in leisure. Your options for online classes grow broader by the day through MasterClass, Coursera, Udemy and many more platforms.

You can even use them to help you keep on track with your resolutions by taking a walking or running course or a class on decluttering!

Serving the tri-city area since 1986. POSC allows patients to have elective surgery, spend minimal time recovering at the facility and then continue to recover in the comfort of their own homes – all in the same day.

ANESTHESIOLOGIST

Arizona Anesthesia Solutions (480) 420-4027

EAR, NOSE AND THROAT

Dr. Derek Hewitt 778-9190 Dr. Mark Strasser 778-9190

GENERAL SURGEONS

Dr. Thomas Hirasa 771-1011 Dr. Donald Huang 771-1011

GYNECOLOGISTS

Dr. Katie Campuzano 778-4300 Dr. Luis Fernandez 776-8428

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

Dr. Cydney Siggins (928) 776-8428

PAIN MANAGEMENT SPECIALISTS

Dr. Bradley Benson 445-4818 Dr. Craig Leicht 445-2700

PLASTIC SURGERY

Dr. Burt Faibosoff 777-5817

ORTHOPAEDIC SPECIALISTS

Dr. Richard Bassett 777-9950

Dr. Bertrand Kaper 778-9250

Dr. Greg Keller 708-4545

Dr. Paul C. Pflueger 777-9950 Dr. Judah Pifer 778-9250

Dr. W. Lee Richardson 777-9950

Dr. Bradley Williams 778-9250

PODIATRY

Dr. Brad Hayman 776-9428 Dr. Evan Simonson 777-9950

UROLOGISTS

Dr. Paul Nguyen (928) 771-5282

Dr. Jeffrey Sanwick (928) 771-5282

Dr. Michael Stanik (928) 771-5282

It's Not About A NEW YOU, IT'S ABOUT a Better You

by Blayne Soriano, Level 2 CrossFit Coach and CrossFit Kids Coach

Every year’s end we reflect back on ourselves and question whether or not we are where we want to be. Some of us are, some of us are not.

Those of us who are not tend to start setting goals for the new year ahead. “New year, new me” is the phrase I tend to hear often.

I want to challenge everyone reading this to change your mindset, dig deep into what it is you are really wanting for yourself when it comes to health. And instead of going all out come the first of the year, make a consistent plan that’s sustainable year after year.

So instead of a new you, create a you who keeps getting better and better and better.

Ask yourself what new goals you need to commit to, or where are you now but find yourself heading. Do you need to make better food choices? Cut things back in your daily diet such as too much caffeine or sugar? Do you need to create a workout routine, hitting classes, getting outside to hike more or hiring a personal trainer?

I think the best way to make new habits to better yourself isn’t always taking things out, but adding good habits in to eventually replace the bad ones.

So this year, moving forward means to change your mindset around your goals and then get after them one day at time with patience and grace.

Happy New Year!

CHRONIC PAIN? Moving You from Hurt to Healing

by Dr. Kimberly Albarran, PT, DPT, CFNP, Hope, Health, Healing

Chronic pain affects one in three people in the United States; that’s more than 100 million Americans.

With today’s standard American diet of processed and fast foods, toxins in our bath, body and home products, and generally high levels of stress, it’s no wonder chronic pain is on the rise.

Pain is multifactorial and is not just about tissue injury, trauma or illness, although they are important factors that can lead to chronic pain.

In this mix, also include our emotional, mental, spiritual, nutritional and overall state of well-being.

Pain does not have to be your destiny, and you can start healing today! This article will look at four pillars to start you on your health and healing journey today to create a happier and healthier you in the new year.

MINDFULNESS: Be aware of your thoughts; stay present in the moment. Positive thoughts encourage release of dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin and beta endorphin, which improves motivation, mood and reduces pain.

One strategy for mindfulness is gratitude. One simple thing to do every morning and/or evening is to write down five things you are grateful and thankful for.

NUTRITION: Eat real food. Reducing or eliminating packaged and processed foods, sugar, dairy and gluten can help to reduce pain. Increase your intake of omega 3 such as algae oil, wild caught salmon, cod, flax, chia seeds and hemp hearts to improve gut health, reduce inflammation and pain.

Drink water to reduce stiffness and pain, and reduce alcohol, coffee and teas with caffeine. Incorporate herbs and spices such as turmeric, ginger, rosemary, thyme and paprika that reduce inflammation.

SLEEP: Seven to nine hours of sleep is needed for cell renewal, rejuvenation and detoxification. Sleep in complete darkness, wear loose-fitting clothes, keep regular sleep times, keep bedroom cooler; do not keep electronics that are emitting Wi-Fi signals or a TV in your room. Blue light reduces melatonin production and increases cortisol production.

MOVEMENT: Moving increases muscle and bone mass, energy, hormone balance, circulation, and it improves your body’s natural opioid production for pain reduction.

The best movements and exercises are the ones you enjoy and will perform consistently. Exercises, such as weightlifting, yoga, qi gong help to reduce stress hormone production and increases dopamine and immune system cells that fight infection.

Wishing you health and healing!

Dedicated Providers Working Around the Clock

Our team of Doctors, Nurse Practitioners, and Physician Assistants are not only qualified medically but truly listen to our patients and are attentive to their healthcare needs. We take the word “Primary” to a new level by offering many services and tests that can all be done in the comfort of one facility. Inquire to learn more about what we offer.

REWIRE YOUR Bad Habits Away

by Blake Herzog

We’re in that time when many of us resolve to do things differently going forward. Most of these involve ending existing habits that have formed in our brains over the course of years or even decades, which is why so many resolutions falter within a couple of months.

Our brains have so much to do between running the critical automatic functions of our body like heartbeats and breathing and the relatively small slice of brainpower left for everything else.

The brain automates everything it can. It’s remarkably easy to ingrain a routine of grabbing a cigarette when you’re bored or a bag of chips when you’re sitting down to work on something you’ve been trying to avoid. All you need is a trigger and a response.

There are two simple, if not always easy, steps to breaking a bad habit.

RECOGNIZE THE TRIGGER AND RESPONSE

Figure out what’s happening when you start doing the thing you want to stop. What situation precedes that action? Is that situation avoidable? If not, pay attention to what you get out of the response. Is the reward as satisfying as you think it is?

You may decide the smell and taste of cigarettes is unappealing, or the self-recrimination you subject yourself to after eating the whole bag of chips saps your time and energy.

START WIRING A NEW NEURAL PATH FOR A MORE POSITIVE RESPONSE Tapping into mindfulness is a great trick here; it resets your brain to stay

active by observing the moment rather than turning to autopilot. Try to get engrossed in that project you’ve been using snacks as a crutch to get yourself through. If you’re stressed, you can try to resolve the situation causing the anxiety or turn your focus to whatever you choose to do in the moment, which usually has little to do with the past or potential future event that’s stressing you out.

This technique doesn’t always work by itself if you’re dealing with addiction to nicotine, alcohol or other drugs, but it’s worth trying for any habit you want to break.

HEART-HEALTHY HERBS & SPICES Brighten Meals

by Blake Herzog

Anyone looking to cut down on their salt without losing flavor in their diet should get more familiar with herbs and spices. Both bring bold and delicate flavors to any meat- or plant-based dish and contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant nutrients that counteract processes that can damage your heart, raise your blood pressure and cause more negative health consequences. Some of these may be more familiar to you than others, but all of them can make your meals even more delicious than that salt you think you’re missing! Herbs are easier to find fresh and grow on your own than most spices, but all of them can liven up your diet while making it healthful, sometimes in unexpected ways:

BASIL — Besides pizza, pesto and salads, it’s great on cauliflower, tomatoes, lamb, veal, poultry and eggs, to name a few options.

CILANTRO — A staple in both Mexican and Vietnamese cuisine, the pungent flavor shines when paired with milder meats like chicken.

CINNAMON — It’s practically synonymous with the sugar it’s used with in sweet baked treats, but also used in savory chicken and lamb Middle Eastern dishes and to flavor Asian curries.

DILL — A fresh-tasting add-on for seafood, salads, sauces, vegetables and vinegar. It also brightens up eggs and potatoes. It’s particularly useful for soups, especially those served cold.

GARLIC — It would be shorter to list the ways garlic is NOT used but it’s especially crucial to Chinese, Italian and Mexican cuisine. Use it in dressings, marinades and sauces and with meat, poultry, vegetables, soups and stews.

GINGER — Used in a huge range of Asian dishes, it is excellent at tenderizing and flavoring meat, accenting shellfish, zesting up stir-fries and, of course, stars in classic holiday gingerbread recipes.

PARSLEY — A terrific source of vitamin C, parsley is mixed into soups and sauces, accents the traditional Mediterranean dish tabbouleh (along with mint), and can be a garnish for salads, grilled veggies and fish.

TURMERIC — It’s ubiquitous in Asian curries and in Indian, Thai, Vietnamese and other South Asian dishes. It can dazzle even in some sweet dishes, as well as on soups and eggs.

Mood-Lifting Ideas FOR A COZIER HOME THIS WINTER

It is the time of year when the days are shorter and darkness falls before 6 p.m.. After a long day at work, nothing sounds better than relaxing at home with your feet up, wearing your cozy PJs. Don’t let the cold and darkness outside turn your sanctuary into a cold cave. With a little bit of effort and ingenuity, you can make your home feel cozier in an afternoon, without spending much money.

You don’t have to succumb to the winter blahs. Just implement a few of these ideas, and you’ll be warm and comfy inside until winter’s worst blows over.

4. BRING HOME SOME NATURE

Many indoor plants, like golden pothos and gerbera daisies, are particularly adept at sucking up nasty VOCs — the vapors emitted from household cleaners, paints, and dry cleaning. And since plants increase humidity levels, they help decrease household dust.

5. VACUUM WITH YOUR THERMOSTAT FAN ON

Run the fan to help filter dust that gets kicked up while cleaning. Leave it on for about 15 minutes after you finish vacuuming, and switch it back to “auto” afterward. HVAC blowers aren’t intended to run all the time.

LET THE SUNLIGHT IN (IT’LL MAKE YOU HAPPY)

7.

Clean your windows. Sparkling glass not only lets more natural light into your home, it’s a feel-good task, according to a survey by the American Clean Institute. When ACI asked consumers what clean surfaces make them happy, “gleaming windows” made the top five above a “spotless sink.” Besides all that, daylighting is a great mood booster.

DIY TIP

1.

CLEAN YOUR LIGHT FIXTURES AND BULBS

Your home will appear 30% brighter — without turning on more lights.

2. KEEP THE COLD AIR OUT

It’s not just window and door leaks killing your cozy vibe. Don’t forget to plug stealthy gaps around recessed lights, electrical boxes, and wall outlets. Use a lit incense stick or scented candle to hunt down drafty spots while leaving behind a cozy scent.

3. DIG OUT YOUR SLOW COOKER

Nothing says warm and cozy like opening the door to an enticing aroma that makes your mouth water. Even better, slow cookers are more energy efficient than electric ovens, typically using less energy than a light bulb.

6.

CHANGE THE FURNACE / AC FILTER

Change your filter every couple months (monthly if you have pets) to prevent excess dust and allergens from circulating. All that bad air just gets you down.

Nothing makes you feel more relaxed and cozy than sitting in front of the fireplace. Don’t have a fireplace? No problem!

Electric fireplaces have come a long way in simulating real flames. Many models also have built-in heaters.

GET YOUR MOUTH A Deep Cleaning for the New Year

Oral health is a key aspect of our overall wellness, not something that should be put off until pain becomes intolerable.

Brushing at least twice daily and flossing are our first line of defense against plaque, cavities, gingivitis and other consequences of tooth decay and gum disease. But once plaque hardens into unsightly tartar, a professional cleaning is necessary to prevent it from leading to receding gums and tooth loss.

Dentists and dental hygienists also are trained to look for lesions, tumors and other possible indicators of disease. We should have our teeth cleaned at a dental office every six to 12 months to make sure any problems are addressed as soon as possible.

This is what should happen when your teeth are cleaned:

• The dentist or dental hygienist will begin by removing any tartar and plaque from the surface of your teeth by using an instrument with a sharp point to “scale” them, scraping it away in a procedure that should not be attempted by anyone who doesn’t have the proper training.

• This is generally followed up by polishing the teeth

using a wand with a soft, rotating head and some gritty toothpaste to remove other surface stains along with any tartar and plaque left behind after the scaling.

• Your teeth will then be flossed as the professional threads it through every gap between every tooth, taking note of what they find and which parts of your gums are more sensitive to being touched and disrupted. Since it’s easier for you to talk at this point, it’s a good time to talk about any concerns you’re having with particular areas of your teeth or whether you’re using proper flossing or brushing techniques.

• You may be asked to have X-rays of your

teeth and jaws taken and offered a fluoride treatment, though in most cases these are reserved for annual exams rather than six-month appointments.

If the cleaning is done by a dental hygienist, the dentist usually comes in to do a final exam after looking at any X-rays taken and informing you of any further treatment that may be needed.

ALLAN ESPINOSA, MD Medical Oncologist

IYAD HAMARNEH, MD Medical Oncologist

ALAN LANGERAK, MD Medical Oncologist

MARSHALL DAVIS, MD Radiation Oncologist

Create a Small Business Health Check Plan for 2023

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

Most business owners are extremely busy working on various parts of their operations, so without regular checkups on financial health, they can lose control and become susceptible to financial problems.

Periodic business health checks can spot problems.

1. WHAT ARE YOUR REVENUE GOALS?

Every business should have revenue goals, both annually and monthly. If you hit goals, what did you do right? Budgets help businesses predict the amount they’ll earn and ensure they have the means to cover expenses.

Identify How Clients Affect your Revenue

Do any customers drain your energy? Are they costing you more in lost time and motivation than they’re worth? Firing your first client can be an emotionally charged experience, but it is a skill every successful business owner needs.

Review Best Revenue Sources

Having multiple revenue streams is good, but it’s important to dig deeper and determine which source of revenue is most crucial, makes the most efficient use of your resources and represents the greatest growth potential.

If your checkup reveals you’re spending too much time on an inefficient revenue stream, consider dropping it.

2. EXPENSES

Tracking expenses helps businesses chart a course with clarity and confidence. Make sure you’re on the lookout for the best deals on expenses like office supplies, travel and food.

3. RECEIVABLES

Do you do a good job of monitoring receivables and following up on pastdue invoices? Have a clear policy on overdue accounts and follow through on collections; consider outsourcing.

4. ADDITIONAL AREAS TO MONITOR BOOKKEEPING

If you want to continue doing the books yourself, try setting aside a little bit of time each week. If bookkeeping is something you just can’t commit to staying on top of, it might be a good time to consider outsourcing.

Business Classification

Is your business classification still a good fit? Talk to your attorney and CPA about whether it makes sense to change your business entity

How Often Do You Need a Checkup?

Set a goal to perform your small business checkup every quarter. Try setting three goals and three key activities to help you reach your goals and keep your business growing and thriving for years to come.

For more information about the Prescott Chamber of Commerce, visit www.prescott.org, call 928.445.2000 or 1.800.266.7534, or stop by the Visitor Information Center at 117 W. Goodwin St.

Photo by Blushing Cactus Photography

NEW YEAR’S EV

CREATING A PRESCOTT, A candid Interview with Boot Drop

HOW DID THE NEW YEAR'S EV

In late 2009, Donna Werking was aiding independent marketer partnered with was to increase bed tax dollars for the held in Prescott after Acker Night The t March." After many conversations over local Prescott Advertising Agency, two new venture: Great Circle Radio and th this signature New Year’s Eve Event for of Northern AZ Social, LLC and Boot Dro

She continues, “Before aiding the City o position as Director of Corporate Sales part of my position was to create new e career as an independent marketer wa Bringing a new tradition to our commu

HOW DID YOU DECIDE TO DR

“As a former student at Northern Arizon dropping a boot was a concept well-su sense logistically I created the first web Boot as the main centerpiece It took so of a year, much research was done to that the City of Key West dropped an o no easy feat This is when we brought o Stephan Markov of Morgan Signs for creating the beautiful boot design Also, Great Circle Radio for their huge level of support with sponsorships and talent for so many years!”

WHAT WERE SOME OF THE HARDSHIPS YOU ENCOUNTERED ?

“Before the inaugural Boot Drop event, we endured eight months of planning with no guarantee of profitability, or even success We were all working without compensation, and motivated by a dream The hardships included working with a skeleton crew of four people who were tasked primarily with procuring sponsorships. Therefore, I led the majority of the planning efforts The challenges included pitches to City Parks and Recreation, sponsorships, budget management, road closures, vendors, infrastructure design and more. I personally scouted the Palace building roof top as the drop location from the flagpole The roof is oddly sloped so that's always been a challenge, especially with weather I also collected the necessary signatures from downtown businesses to seek their approvals for the event. One year the city stage broke so we had our sound technician use the back of his truck as the main stage So many triumphs and so many great memories. On the inaugural event day, I recruited my friends and family to assist with the infrastructure set-up. My husband personally donated tables, electrical cords and equipment for vendors to pull off the first-ever Boot Drop event It was an arduous process that involved endless hours of planning. I still reminisce over how just a few of us pulled this through We proudly hold the Boot Drop archive of planning records at my agency, Northern AZ Social It's good to remember that if you put your mind to something, with time, hard work and the right people, you can do anything. ”

WHAT IS THE FUTURE OF THE NEW YEAR'S EVE BOOT DROP EVENT ?

“I am very proud to see how the New Year's Eve Boot Drop event has grown today It is wonderful to see that our city embraces the "Boot Drop" as a signature event. My agency will continue to support the New Year's Eve Boot Drop as it now lives under the "Arizona Christmas City" events The Boot Drop has had many homes since its inception and has lived with M & M Entertainment as the event organizer for the last decade The overall goal is to secure the life of the event for years to come For everyone involved who initially believed in the event and dedicated their time, I can say our effort has truly paid off. I hope to see the event around for many more years. I also hope to attend the event as a grandmother one day and show my grandchildren the long-lasting New Year's Eve tradition we started ”

Donna Werking (Boot Drop Co-Founder) Center

Valley of Lights CAPTIVATES VISITORS

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

What began 23 years ago as a small community Christmas-light display has grown into one of the state’s most brilliant holiday attractions.

Prescott Valley’s Valley of Lights has delighted residents and visitors alike with lighted and animated displays created with thousands of colored lights.

In 2001, then-Chamber Executive Director Lew Rees envisioned a beautiful lighting display similar to what he previously had in his community of Branson, Missouri.

Working with a lighting company from that area, he planned and designed the first eight original displays.

Retired Executive Assistant Beverly Oleson remembered that in those early days staff and volunteers helped with the set up — dragging electrical cords, moving and anchoring displays and manning the donation booth.

Today, the Valley of Lights has 63 displays, with most consisting of multiple sections, animation and millions of lights. It is under the masterful supervision, setup, maintenance and storage by Advanced Electrical Contracting and Jeff Schaffer.

Schaffer begins work on the Valley of Lights in early September to have it ready by Thanksgiving. During the display, he is continually checking on the cords and electrical, as errant wildlife often make their way through, creating unintentional mischief.

Five years ago, the Stroll through Valley of Lights began. For one night only, the park is closed to vehicles and people walk through the beautiful displays. They may meet carolers, a singing Christmas hippo, Buddy the Elf and Santa Claus.

This is a very popular night where people are able to view

and photograph the lighted and animated displays up close and personal.

The Valley of Lights displays represent a variety of interests and celebrations from the Nativity and spiritual, to patriotism and fantasy, to awareness and remembrance. Each is made possible through sponsorships by organizations and businesses.

The Valley of Lights is one of the most visited holiday destinations with an average car count of 625 nightly. There is no admission, but a donation of $5 per car is suggested and gratefully accepted at the end of the display area.

MORE INFORMATION

• Valley of Lights is open 6 to 10 p.m., through Dec. 30.

• Location is 2205 5th St. (Look for the toy soldier pointing the way on Highway 69.)

Rick Ohanesian, MD

Jeffrey Osburn, MD

Katie Campuzano, MD

AnnMarie Massimo, NP

Victoria Cahill, NP

Danita Napier, NP Brittany Peña, NP

Proposition 443 Sunsets Five Years Early

by Barry Barbe, Owner, El Gato Azul and Torme Restaurants

In spring 2017, a group of concerned community members came together to address the City of Prescott’s ballooning PSPRS debt and the future of Prescott.

The Public Safety Personnel Retirement Program, or PSPRS, is a state retirement program for safety employees and had reached a liability of over $75 million.

There were those who felt it acceptable to deny this responsibility and allow the city to file bankruptcy.

“Doing nothing about the millions of dollars in unfunded liability the City of Prescott faced was not an option,” said co-chair of the Stand for Prescott - Yes on 443 Sherrie Hanna.

The alternative to paying down the obligation was pretty bleak. Payments to the PSPRS liability were becoming a drain on the general fund, putting public safety services at risk as well as stymieing programs such as Parks and Rec and Library Services, as well as others that community members had come to expect and appreciate.

Stand for Prescott, and the majority of Prescottonians, knew it was their responsibility to take care of those who spent their careers protecting and serving our community.

With a rallying cry from City Council

members Billie Orr and Steve Shiscka, a committee was quickly assembled, co-chaired by Sheri Hanna and Cecilia Jergenson. The process of educating the community as to what was at risk began, and along with countless volunteers, a schedule of educational events took place.

In November 2017, the voters of Prescott approved a .75% of a penny sales tax to sunset in 10 years, or once the debt was below the amount of $1.75 million.

In just five years, during which the national economy was hammered with the COVID epidemic, the debt threshold has been met, and the tax will end Dec. 31, 2022. That’s a full five years less than expected.

The Stand for Prescott group was a true grassroots style campaign. Honestly, in political advertising, relationships such as these are not often seen.

I’m proud to say we can look back to our campaign message and say we were true to our word: “Promises given, promises kept” — Tracey Horn, Helken & Horn Ad Agency.

The passage of Proposition 443 and the results it delivered in five years is a true testament to what can be accomplished when folks come together as a community.

Sherrie Hanna • Co-Chair

Cecelia Jernegan • Co-Chair

Ann Brechwald • Treasurer

Linda Nichols • Secretary

Billie Orr

Steve Sischka

Peg Travers

Rita Kavanaugh

Terri Teschner

Barry Barbe

Tracey Horn

Bill Feldmeier

Kathleen Murphy

Bob Betts

Steve Blair

Charlie Arnold

Dan Bauman Ben Roche

Tom Haney

Dr. David Hess

Pam Jones Nick Mork

Chad Dougan

YOUR INVESTMENTS CAN Succeed in 2023

by Blake Herzog

After the ups and (primarily) downs of 2022, the stock market is no longer looking like the sure thing it never really was, and real estate is getting more unpredictable by the minute.

Inflation and interest rates are taking major bites out of your spending power and the whispers of recession are deafening.

What can you do to shore up your finances in 2023?

It’ll be a combination of ensuring your foundation is solid and making smart investments based on the amount of risk you can afford. First, the basics:

• If you aren’t already following a budget with your spending, this is an excellent time to start. Start setting up your own spreadsheets or investigate apps and other programs designed to make it easier, such as Mint, YNAB or EveryDollar.

• Set a goal of putting aside enough cash in a savings account or short-term CDs to cover three to 12 months of expenses to protect yourself against unexpected job losses or medical bills. Save even more if you’re working in a field where job openings are sparse. Look into every type of retirement savings account available to you.

• Know how much you want to save for retirement, which will depend heavily on the kind of lifestyle you want to have once you are done working.

• Carry all the insurance you’re going to need, including life, health, home and vehicle.

Wise investing will require a diverse portfolio.

• You should be in the stock market but focus on some of the more recessionproof sectors including utilities, health care, basic consumer goods, discount retail and transportation services.

It’s especially tempting to bail if you’re near or beyond retirement, but you should have at least some of the funds you won’t need for three to five years invested so you can benefit from longer-term gains.

• Real estate can stay part of your portfolio as long as you’re not anticipating a profitable quick flip. Buy whatever will be in your means, and be prepared to rent it out for a few years so you can benefit from that consistent revenue stream before venturing out to put it back on the market.

If you’re not looking for that level of involvement look for real estate investment trusts (REITs), which often offer above-average returns.

• If you do move at least some of your money out of stocks, you can put it instead in some of the typical investment havens like short-term treasury bonds, money market accounts and municipal and corporate bonds while looking at some alternative investment options for funds you won’t need to access in the near future such as commodities and managed futures.

• Get help from wealth and financial management pros whenever you can. Economic conditions are become more unpredictable even for those who do it for a living so it’s more important than ever to rely on those with the training to steer your investment portfolio through choppy waters.

"Real estate can stay part of your portfolio as long as you’re not anticipating a profitable quick flip."

All Kids Need Free Books

Generosity from people throughout the county is making it possible for kids from birth to age 5 in Yavapai County to have a free book a month sent to their home. Dolly Parton is behind much of that generosity. Through a program called Dolly Parton Imagination Library of the Prescott Area, an affiliate of the international nonprofit organization, no cost and age-appropriate books are provided once a month, said Tara O’Neill, president of the local group.

O’Neill, director of the College Education and Early Childhood Education program at Yavapai College, said the local Imagination Library has served more than 1,250 kids countywide since 2019.

“To keep up with growth, we need to raise between $35,000 and $40,000 annually,” O’Neill said. “We especially appreciate the support we get from the Frontier Rotary Club, the Prescott Rotary Club, the Prescott Sunup Rotary Club and the Arizona Community Foundation. Our board also values support from the Prescott Public Library, where Blair Runion works. She also serves on our board as the treasurer.”

O’Neill said the Imagination Library, since its founding in 1995, has become a major international philanthropy: “It functions in five countries — the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland and Australia. Internationally it serves more than 2,200,615 kids.”

She said it all stems from Parton, who has said: “When I was a young girl growing up in Tennessee, I had dreams. Some of those dreams came from seeds found in books. The seeds you help plant in your communities from giving books to kids can spread across the world.”

ERAU Sets Records for Growth

Record-breaking fall enrollment marked the beginning of the 2022-2023 academic term at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical UniversityPrescott.

ERAU President P. Barry Butler and Chancellor Anette Karlsson praised the faculty and staff for creating an educational atmosphere that continued to attract some of the brightest university students in the nation.

They did so during the fall Board of Visitors meeting, Oct. 5 to Oct. 8, on campus. Butler, who had flown in from his office at the Daytona Beach campus in Florida, praised the Prescott campus for continuing to gain international recognition for its various programs during the OctoberWest festivities.

U.S. News & World Report Rates ERAU among Best

The Embry-Riddle Aeronautical UniversityPrescott campus was rated No. 1 in the United States in three separate categories in this year’s ranking of residential campuses. It also received other commendations:

• Best Regional College in the Western Region.

• Best for Veterans in the Western Region (second consecutive year)

• Most Innovative Schools in the Western Region.

It was cited as:

• No. 2, Best Undergraduate Aerospace Engineering Programs for schools without the Ph.D. option

• No. 5, Best Value Schools

When combined with the Worldwide Campus program, ERAU was ranked No. 1 for Best Online Campus programs in the nation.

Total fall enrollment was 3,166 students, 194 more than same time last year.

By class, the breakdown was 744 freshmen, 718 sophomores, 647 juniors, 1,014 senior, and 43 graduate students. By gender, there are 2,287 males and 879 females.

Karlsson said, “This is a record-setting year, the largest enrollment ever on campus. Our students enjoy the opportunity to learn in our experiential environment

while working on scientific, technical and leadership challenges for the future.”

She discussed the new five-year plan for growth and expansion that will soon be announced. She cautioned that plans are tentative as to when actual construction or renovation would begin. Supply chain breakdowns, in addition to building and construction material shortages and labor shortages have caused major price increases, with consequent slowdowns, she said.

Projects include construction of a new wind tunnel to replace the one that has reached its lifetime. A new student union building is planned. At some point a new residence hall will be constructed to meet the increasing student growth. Renovation as well as demolition of some older buildings on campus is being considered.

Also, considerable expansion of ERAU flight line facilities at the airport is under consideration.

Deans Describe College Growth

Deans of the four academic colleges — engineering, aviation, business-security and intelligence, and arts and sciences — talked about growth in those programs. Dean Ron Madler, engineering dean, described ongoing internships and partnerships students and faculty had with NASA and other major research and industry leaders in engineering.

Aviation Dean Tim Holt shared numbers demonstrating that students training to become pilots had grown substantially. He anticipated 1,100 or more next year and has purchased more airplanes.

Dean Tom Drape, business-security and intelligence, said the university is adding a degree program. It is the only college with its unique emphasis in the nation.

Arts and sciences Dean Zafer Hatahet said his college also is adding new degree programs.

University on Solid Financial Base

Steve Bobinsky, executive director, Office of Development-Prescott, told board members that philanthropy support continued to increase for the university. He noted that the institution awarded $2.3 million in scholarship support to students and expects those numbers to increase.

“Generous contributions help support

undergraduate research, and also support networking and internship opportunities and STEM outreach efforts, especially in our surrounding neighborhoods and Northern Arizona and the greater Phoenix metro area,” he said.

President Shares State of University Address

President Butler said, “Our No.1 priority on all of our campuses and centers, is giving personal attention to student success. Our independent ranking by U.S. News & World Report demonstrates our unwavering commitment to prepare tomorrow’s leaders in aviation aerospace, business, cybersecurity, engineering and STEM fields.”

Butler also said ERAU had received full accreditation from the Southern Association of College and School Commission on Colleges.

Following a series of visitations and activities in various departments and schools across campus, OctoberWest weekend ended with an Eagle Alumni Award Dinner. Michelle Day, director of alumni relations for the western region, introduced six past graduates who were honored for their personal and professional accomplishments.

The dinner was following by a “Drone Show,” which replaced the traditional fireworks display. As Chancellor Karlsson phrased it, “Fireworks are so 14th century technology. Drones more embrace what Embry-Riddle is about.”

Karen Shaw

Dale Maas

Noa Lawson

Tom O'Dea

Ed Wisneski

Susan Small

Karen Shaw

Fernando Mendigutia

Dale Maas Karen Shaw

Bryan Pressner

Dale Maas

Daryl Weisser

Karen Shaw

Karen Shaw

Karen Shaw Dale Maas

Karen Shaw

Susan Small

Daryl Weisser Karen Shaw

Karen Shaw

Fernando Mendigutia Daryl Weisser

Bryan Pressner

Karen Shaw

Karen Shaw Karen Shaw

Guillermo Garcia

Karen Shaw

Susan Small Daryl Weisser

Karen Shaw

Noa Lawson Karen Shaw

Camp ArchaeologyVerdeCenter

BECOMES POPULAR DESTINATION

by

Ray Newton

Visits to the Verde Valley Archaeology Center in Camp Verde are increasing.

Monica Buckle, the executive director, says she’s thrilled to lead the only organization in the greater Verde Valley area dedicated to collecting, managing and curating archaeological artifacts from the Verde Valley.

A Cherokee native of Sallisaw, a small town in eastern Oklahoma, Buckle attributes much of that increase to a new location in the middle of town, 460 W. Finnie Flat Rd.

“When we ran out of space at our previous site, local donors became exceptionally generous in helping us fund the new museum facilities,” she says.

For decades, Buckle says, most artifacts from the Verde Valley had been moved to other locations: “Though Verde Valley artifacts have been exhibited in museums and universities around the world, only recently did local people become interested in preserving and restoring the continuity of Native American people and communities in central Arizona.”

She says three Native American tribes — the Navajo, Hopi and Apache — are particularly linked to the local Yavapai Apache Nation in the Verde Valley. The center is a research and educational organization devoted to preserving, interpreting and celebrating archeology where indigenous people have lived for thousands of years.

She credits enthusiasm for creating the center to Paul Dyck, an American painter who moved to Rimrock, a small community 10 miles north of Camp Verde.

During its first years, the museum grew slowly. It ultimately became a nonprofit 501(c)(3) governed by a board of 10 directors led by Cheri Meyerhofer.

The center bought the 11,000-squarefoot, one-story building for $1.1 million. A former medical facility was turned into a space with entry hall, classrooms, exhibit rooms, research and educational laboratories and office space.

Much success in buying and remodeling is the result of a major grant from the Arizona Community Fund supported by longtime fund administrators Regional Director Jennifer Perry of Sedona and Regional Director Lisa Sahady of Prescott.

Buckle works with five other paid staff employees: Director of Archeology Kathryn Turner; Director of Collections Jeffrey H. King; Ethnobotanist and Historian Robert Estrada; Accountant Diane Happeny; and Director Emeritus Ken Zoll. Buckle says, “A critical factor is our large growing team of 700 volunteers.”

She also praised the leadership team from the Museum of Northern Arizona in Flagstaff for its continual support.

Buckle spent much of her early career in New York City, where she owned and coordinated galleries featuring Native American artwork. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Lynn University in Boca Raton, Florida. She later received a master of art business degree from Sotheby Institute of Art in New York.

She recently was named to the Mesa Verde Foundation board of directors in Colorado, which is an official philanthropic partner with the UNESCO World Heritage program. Buckle also is affiliated with the Tucson Museum of Art and serves as a guest curator and Native American representative.

The center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A

Kid’s Adventure Room can be rented for special activities. Admission tickets can be purchased online; $10 for adults 18 to 64; $5 for those 65 and older. Those younger than 18, are veterans or active duty service members, Native American, or those who are North American Reciprocal Museum members are free.

“We are becoming a stellar place to learn and to grow in knowledge,”

Buckle says. “Regional history and culture museums such as ours are the foundation for instilling pride in the past and opportunity for the future.”

More information is available online at www.verdevalleyarchaeology.org or by calling 928.567.0066.

Executive Director Monica Buckle, Vere Valley Archeology Center

Photo by Ray Newton

LET'S BEHIND OUR Unite Heroes COMMUNITY

by Blake Herzog

Prescott Valley Police officers serve the community.

Photo courtesy of Prescott Valley Police Department

People are generally having a hard time agreeing about stuff lately. As the world becomes ever more complex and we process all the changes in different ways, it becomes harder than ever to find common ground.

But heroes are one thing that hasn’t changed too much over the years. They star in the only movies people can rouse themselves to go see at the theater anymore, and their reallife definition hasn’t really shifted, especially at the community level.

We admire those who devote most of their time to improving the lives of other people, whether they’re trapped in a burning building, children in a preschool classroom or seniors living with food insecurity. We love people who help animals and animals who help people.

So, one way we can join forces is to get behind the heroes in our communities. And they’re everywhere.

HOTBEDS OF HEROES

If you or someone you love is going to school, you’re going to encounter a ton of heroes.

Teachers, when they fulfill their job requirements, are heroes almost by definition, prepping people to establish or strengthen their foothold in the world. Their dedication to their students is palpable and inspires them to spend long days molding them and dreaming with them about what they can accomplish.

—STAN LEE

“Another definition of a hero is someone who is concerned about other people’s wellbeing, and will go out of his or her way to help them — even if there is no chance of a reward. That person who helps others simply because it should or must be done, and because it is the right thing to do, is indeed without a doubt, a real superhero.”

From left: Jim Gillihan, Captian Terry Jacobson, JT Gray

Photo by Blushing Cactus Photography

Campuses are a place where many kinds of heroes converge to set students up for success — educators, counselors, food service workers, nurses, social workers, tutors and parents and guardians.

But there are plenty more to be found roving the Greater Prescott landscape.

They are bringing meals to the hungry through food banks, meal deliveries, community kitchens and events. They provide care and

comfort in hospitals, hospices and clinics. They find homes for those who need one and repair others so their owners can continue living there.

Heroes respond to our crises and stand watch over our neighborhoods. Heroes are there to guide us away from bad situations and choices and provide better options.

They have our backs, and it helps us all if we have theirs, too.

HOME OF THE BRAVE

It takes courage to be a hero — whether you are a caregiver, a protector or a leader you’re putting your time and skill toward a problem you may not be able to solve, at least to the degree you hope to.

There’s a risk of disappointment whenever you take on a challenge, but heroes are the people who help others, as Stan Lee said, because it should or must be done, and it’s the right thing to do.

Gardner Family Teacher Scholarship Presentation

Firefighter Daniel carries Roo to safety.

Heroes at the regional 911 police/fire dispatch center hustle to get public safety responders to emergencies from Paulden to Prescott. From left Peggy Ford-Skibbe, Vivian Marcott, Kylie Paulsen Valley.

Photo by Blushing Cactus Photography

Bulletproof Vests NEEDED FOR K9S

by Ray Newton

Prescott Valley resident Amber Riley’s early love of animals, especially dogs, led her into an adult career that often finds opportunities to raise funds to support buying bulletproof vests for K9 police dogs.

Riley has owned and operated K9Synergy for six years in Prescott Valley.

On Sept 25, through cooperation with Amanda Howard — a law enforcement officer in Phoenix who with her company called The Thin Blue Line Canines of Great Valor — they collaborated with Prescott Valley Police and its K9-squad in a fundraiser to buy bulletproof vests for police dogs.

Assisted by donated support from Findlay Subaru-Prescott, they gathered on the car lot from 3 to 7 p.m. on a Sunday afternoon. Several vendors conducted raffles,

silent auctions and other activities as they circulated among the crowd, explaining their purpose.

The Prescott Valley K9-squad comprised of Jerry Ellison, Tim Creager, Tanner Persson and Keven O’Hagan — assisted. They led several of their dogs through vigorous training exercises I which the dogs exhibited their discipline. For instance, officers, using voice and hand signals, had the dogs run, creep, circle, dance and when directed, attack a heavily protected officer until told to stop.

Several hundred people met the women, police and dogs during the four-hour program.

“We want our Quad City communities to show their support in every way possible for our beleaguered law enforcement officials,” Riley and Howard said.

They had set a goal of raising $6,000. “Each vest for a dog costs about $2,900, so we hoped to get money enough to buy two. Every penny we get goes to support purchase of those vests for the dogs,” Riley said.

Disappointed they fell short of their goal, Howard said they did raise about $2,000, and pledges were still coming in.

She added: “We’ll continue sponsoring similar events in the area, for it is critical that we help law enforcement officers in protecting these highly trained and well-disciplined dogs.” Riley and her firm have trained and rehabilitated dogs from throughout central and northern Arizona for several years.

For more contact information go to www.facebook.com/ K9SYNERGYPRESCOTT.

Photo by Ray Newton

Prescott Valley K9 officers have their highly trained dogs demonstrate how obediently they followed vocal and hand commands during a fundraising event on Sept 25.

Fowler, MATFORCE Fight Addiction on All Fronts

A coalition of law enforcement and social service agencies, schools and more than 300 volunteers working across a myriad of programs, the organization and Executive Director Merilee Foster have won national awards.

“I love when it has the name MATFORCE on it instead of my name because I have to share it with so many people,” Fowler says. “I have some skills and I feel like I’ve been a part of the success, but I know there’s just been so many other people that I have to share it with and I’m so grateful to them. So, I think, well, I’m going to share this, there’s lots of heroes.”

Her latest commendation further proves the value of teamwork.

In June she was given the Outstanding Public Health/Public Safety Collaboration Effort Award by the Office of National Drug Control Policy for helping to lead a project team assembling a “toolkit” of high-quality information in English and Spanish on the dangers of fentanyl, the basis of a statewide media campaign run during the summer when the most overdose deaths occur.

MATFORCE has been doing heroic work in Yavapai County since 2006 to reduce drug abuse and addiction and the toll it takes on families and communities.

by Blake Herzog

Annual MATFORCE event "Walk With Me, Be Drug Free" at Mortimer Farms.

Fowler has led MATFORCE since January 2007, shortly after it was formed by local leaders to stem the rising tide of methamphetamine use. She’s been able to keep it and the adjacent Community Counts initiative ahead of the drug crisis since then through its deep involvement in schools and the community, picking up on issues before they grow more out of control.

MATFORCE has formed the state’s first Overdose Fatality Review Board and a reentry program for former inmates that has been replicated in six counties.

She says, “We’re really looking at, you know, root causes, risk and protective factors, and what can we do to enhance protective factors. What can we do to reduce risk factors? What can we do to help them with the reasons that they think they are using drugs and to combat those?”

Fowler oversees an array of programs addressing many factors including

suicide prevention, safe medication disposal, a speaker’s bureau, a community garden and, most recently, a diaper bank.

She is a sought-after speaker herself and in 2017 founded Substance Abuse Leaders Coalition of Arizona, which today has 49 member agencies. And MATFORCE continues to make gains for the community, noting an 11% decrease in overdose deaths in the county from 2020 to 2021, the first decline in five years of tracking. Still, 74 were reported over that timeframe. Fowler has persevered for 16 years in a field notorious for worker burnout.

“I feel so fortunate to be the director of an amazing organization with so many amazing individuals that have done great work,” she says. “We don’t take our money lightly. We don’t take our mission lightly. And I think that goes back to the success of it, we’re going to do the best we can to fight a very complicated problem.”

“We’re really looking at, you know, root causes, risk and protective factors, and what can we do to enhance protective factors. What can we do to reduce risk factors? What can we do to help them with the reasons that they think they are using drugs and to combat those?”

—MERILEE FOWLER

A Substance Abuse Coalition Leaders of Arizona (SACLAZ) meeting where Governor's Office of Youth, Faith and Family Director Maria Fuentes is speaking to the group.

Photo courtesy of MATFORCE

Yavapai College RECEIVES JUSTICE DEPARTMENT POLICING GRANT!

Submitted by Yavapai College

Yavapai Campus Safety Chief Tyran Payne, left, at a recent campus event.

The U.S. Justice Department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services awarded Yavapai College Justice Institute a $29,455 grant to fund a year of peace officer trainings with the national nonprofit Police2Peace. Former Prescott Police Chief and YC justice studies instructor Jerald Monahan says the trainings help foster a broader mindset among officers about the role policing plays in our communities.

“The project (has) our police officers and deputies thinking about the roots of our calling,” he says. “They do enforce the law and make arrests. But as we think about what our officers do on a daily basis, the majority of time is spent in service activities, connecting with the community — keeping the peace, so to speak.”

Over 40 states across the nation certify their officers as “Peace Officers.”

“This project will emphasize that mindset of service as peacekeepers,” Monahan says. “The training modules offered in Yavapai County will include police leaders, elected officials, community members and union/association leaders.”

Campus Safety is one of six Arizona grant recipients and one of 166 recipients nationwide.

“This project will also provide for community forums and youth forums to receive input from both groups about their thoughts on the policing profession and the philosophy of the mindset of peace officer versus law enforcement officer,” Monahan says.

The Office of Community Oriented Policing Services is the Justice Department component responsible for advancing the practice of community policing within state, local, territorial and tribal law enforcement agencies. The office awards grants to local agencies to hire community policing professionals, develop and test innovative policing strategies, and provide training and technical assistance to community members, local government leaders and all levels of law enforcement.

Since 1994, the COPS Office has invested more than $14 billion to support and advance community policing.

Work on the program began in October, with Police2Peace trainers interviewing local law enforcement to customize the training curriculum to Yavapai County. For more information, please contact Yavapai College Justice Institute at: 928.776.2184, or contact director Monahan by email at jerald.monahan@yc.edu.

Active in 49 states, Police2Peace is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building public trust, strengthening community ties and changing the culture of policing nationwide.

The grant was announced in midOctober as part of the Department of Justice’s $33 million-dollar Community Oriented Policing (COPS) initiative. Yavapai College

Former Prescott Police and YC Campus Safety Chief Jerald Monahan, left, with current YC Campus Safety Chief Tyran Payne.

The Eyes Have It

ON NEW YEAR'S EVE

by Blake Herzog

New Year’s Eve is prime time to go glam with your eyes, whether you’re at home, in Courthouse Plaza, Times Square, Tokyo or Timbuktu.

It’s a special night that gives you license to try out daring and dazzling looks that would be too laborious and distracting in most daily work and home settings.

Your eyes are the most defining feature of your face and should be framed appropriately every time you go out, but Dec. 31 gives you a chance to show off your artistic side with dramatic flourishes and color combinations.

Here are some ideas for setting yourself up to impress on this or other nights to remember!

JUST ADD GLITTER

It’s easy to overdo it most of the time but on New Year’s Eve the only limit should be your ability to keep the flecks under control and out of your eyes. Silver, gold or any color you can conjure can look spectacular, particularly in the lowlight settings you’re likely to find yourself in.

ACROSS THE RAINBOW

There’s no reason to limit yourself to one or two shades; whether you’re using muted, metallic or mega colors you should draw from across the spectrum to send a bright, vibrant message to everyone you will be greeting the new year with.

SMOKY SIGNALS

That seductive smoky eye look unfortunately doesn’t fit well into most casual settings. Take advantage of the thrall of the approaching new year with copious amounts of eye shadow over your lids and all areas framed by your brows, whether it’s black, gray, brown, purple or even a deep blue or green.

GET GRAPHIC

If you’ve longed to try this daringly artistic look but never found the right place and time this is the ideal time to start drawing! Whether you’re going for a thin line, waves, lightning bolts or butterfly wings, you can let your creativity take flight.

ACCESSOR-EYES

If you’re handy with eyelash glue or other face-appropriate adhesives, have fun with it by adding tiny rhinestones, crystals pearls or pieces of confetti!

Love Local

Your Guide to Prescott’s

Beauty & Wellness Stores and Services

Skin Perfection 3190 Clearwater Dr. Prescott 928.541.0003 www.skinperfectionaz.com

Strada Salon 931 12th Pl. Prescott 928.778.2028 www.stradasalonaz.com

BEAUTY

Aboost Wellness and Salon 543 W. Gurley St. Prescott 928.910.4111 www.aboostwellness.com

A Valley of Vitality 2047 Willow Creek Rd. Prescott 928.442.6026 www.avalleyofvitality.com

ERA Salon & Spa 515 E. Sheldon St. Prescott 928.778.0860 www.erasalonandspa.com

Prescott Medical Aesthetics 172 E. Merritt St., Ste. D Prescott 928.277.7414 www.prescottbotox.com

Rogers Academy of Beauty 2375 E. State Rte. 69 Prescott 928.848.9929 www.rogersbeautyschool.com

Salon Tru Blu & Day Spa

1436 W. Gurley St. Prescott 928.445.4126 www.salontrublu.com

Salud Spa 130 W. Gurley St., No. 307 Prescott 928.800.1777 www.salud-spa.com

SkinFit 223 White Spar Rd. Prescott 928.460.3317

SkinPlus MedSpa 1747 Willow Creek Rd. Prescott 928.582.0716 www.skinplusmedspa.com

Sundara Sanctuary 6594 E. 2nd St., Ste. B Prescott Valley 928.277.4874 www.sundarasanctuary.com

The Cut Above Salon & Spa 8600 E. Valley Road, Ste. D Prescott Valley 928.772.8728 www.thecutabovesalonandspa.com

Wilson Aesthetics & Beauty+Wellness 8196 Florentine Rd. Prescott Valley 928.350.5484 www.wilsonaestheticsaz.com

Photo by Blushing Cactus Photography

Love Local

Your Guide to Prescott’s

Style Stores and Services

STYLE

Artful Eye Jewelers

124 S. Montezuma St. Prescott 928.445.5570 www.artfuleyejewelers.com

Bashford Courts

130 W. Gurley St. Prescott 928.642.7984 www.bashfordcourts.com

Classy N Sassy 220. W. Goodwin St., No. 3 Prescott 928.776.7467

Drawn West 134 W. Gurley St. Prescott 928.778.5725

Fancy That!

124 N. Granite St., No. A Prescott 928.445.1883 www.fancythatprescott.com

French Hen Boutique

108 N. Montezuma St. Prescott 928.445.3424

Hello Gorgeous Boutique

130 W. Gurley St., Ste. 309 Prescott 928.273.0499 www.shophgb.com

Lost in Socks

130 W. Gurley St., Ste. 303 Prescott 928.445.1833 www.lostinsocks.com

Purple Clover Boutique 130 W. Gurley St., Ste. 205 Prescott 928.499.5195 www.purplecloverprescott.shop

Scarlett’s Curated Collection

107 N. Cortez St. Prescott 928.227.2581 www.scarlettsinprescott.com

The Clothes Hound

122 S. Montezuma St. Prescott 928.771.0811 www.clotheshoundclothingco.com

Vincenzo’s for Men 130 W. Gurley St., Ste. 310 Prescott 928.445.3501

Wardrobe 520 W. Sheldon St., Ste. 2A Prescott 310.709.8099

1.

' Tiquing in Chino Valley

by Maggie Tidaback, Economic Development Project Manager, Town of Chino Valley

We consider ourselves the Quad Cities' No. 1 destination for boutique and antique shopping. You may be surprised, but certainly fascinated, by all we have to offer. For instance:

THE PEA VINE

Explore hand-crafted gifts, art and more made by more than 90 local artists!

400 W. Butterfield Road

2. WILD SAGE ANTIQUE AND BOUTIQUE

So much offered here including antiques, collectibles, vintage Western wear jewelry, purses, home décor and new and used clothing.

48 N. State Route 89

3. BARN SOUR RUSTICS

Indulge in western flair galore in furniture, gifts and décor. 743A E. Rd. 2 N.

6. MARY’S COZY HOME FURNISHINGS

Wander around in more than 6,000 square feet showcasing gently used and new furniture. 1299 N. State Route 89

7. CHINO VALLEY JEWELERS

Specializing in vintage jewelry sales, custom design and repair, Chino Valley’s original hometown jeweler since 1996 will make your eyes shine.

335 Butterfield Rd.

8.

4.

THE AG TEACHERS' WIFE

Go boutiquing for women’s clothing.

150 S. State Route 89

5. RIPS ANTIQUES

Here’s where you’ll find the jewel of the Nile and lots of other lost and buried treasures.

3977 N. State Route 89

COUNTY ROADS BOOKS

At Hometown Book Store, Country Roads Books and more, you’ll find used and new books in such categories as children’s, religion, history and more. We trade books, too.

318 W. Perkinsville Rd.

LET EDUCATION CONTINUE TO Drive Our Community

by Cathy Stonecipher, Administrative Director, Guidance Helicopters, Inc.

Our community’s education is extremely important to Guidance Helicopters, Inc., and we strive to promote community awareness.

By sponsoring the education section, we hope that our community members become aware of all of our children’s educational opportunities in Yavapai County. We are blessed to live in a dynamic community that is education driven.

We are an FAA-approved helicopter pilot training institution that offers the most comprehensive, effective training available.

Our goal is to produce pilots who set the standard in the industry for professionalism and safety.

Founded in 1998 by John L. Stonecipher, Guidance Helicopters has trained more than 400 pilots

who are working in the helicopter industry today. Guidance’s dedication to excellence is evident in the caliber of pilots who graduate and are employed immediately afterward to their highly experienced staff.

Stonecipher was the United States SBA National Business Person of the Year in 2013, and Guidance Helicopters received the Safety Excellence Award in

2014 by the Helicopter Association International Augusta Westland.

Student pilots at Guidance have a well-defined, straightforward path to follow to reach their completion goals. In 24 months, students go from having no experience to certificated flight instructor rating. Training conforms to a rigorous schedule that’s been fine-tuned to promote the most success and certificate completion.

Education Directory

UNIVERSITIES/COLLEGES

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University 3700 Willow Creek Rd. Prescott 928.777.6600 www.prescott.erau.edu

Northern Arizona University - Prescott Campus 1100 E. Sheldon St. Prescott 928.523.2988 www.nau.edu/statewide-campuses/ nau-yavapai-college

Northern Arizona University - Yavapai 7351 Skoog Blvd. Prescott Valley 928.523.2988 www.nau.edu/prescottvalley

Prescott College 220 Grove Ave. Prescott 877.350.2100 www.prescott.edu

Yavapai College 1100 E. Sheldon St. Prescott 928.445.7300 www.yc.edu

TECHNICAL & TRADE SCHOOLS

Career & Technical Education Center (CTEC) 220 Ruger Rd., Suite 1 Prescott 928.776.2002 www.yc.edu/ctec

Guidance Helicopters, Inc. Helicopter Flight School 6565 Crystal Ln. Prescott 928.443.9370 www.guidanceaero.com

Mountain Institute Career Technical Education District (CTED) 220 Ruger Rd., Ste. 2 Prescott 928.771.0791 www.micted.net

Rogers Academy of Beauty 2375 AZ-69 Prescott 928.848.9929 www.rogersacademyofbeauty.com

PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS

Chino Valley Unified School District #51 650 E. Center St. Chino Valley 928.636.2458 www.chinovalleyschools.com

Humboldt Unified School District 6411 N. Robert Rd. Prescott Valley 928.759.4000 www.humboldtunified.com

Prescott Unified School District 300 E. Gurley St. Prescott 928.445.5400 www.prescottschools.com

Mayer Unified School District No. 43 PO Box 1059 12606 E. Main St. Mayer 928.642.1000 www.mayerschools.org

Yavapai Accomodation School District No. 99 K-12 7497 E. Addis Ave. Prescott Valley 928.759.8126 www.yavapaicountyhighschool.com

PRESCHOOLS

American Lutheran School Private School 1085 Scott Dr. Prescott 928.778.7049 www.americanlutheranschool.com

Bright Futures Preschool Humboldt Unified School District 6411 N. Robert Rd. Prescott Valley 928.759.5130 www.bf.humboldtunified.com

Busy Bee Learning Center 8665 E. Florentine Rd. Prescott Valley 928.772.6333 www.busybeelearningcenter.net

Cedar Tree Montessori Private School 129 N. Pleasant St Prescott 928.771.8785 www.cedartreemontessori.com

Christian Academy of Prescott Private School 148 S. Marina St. Prescott 928.445.2565

Cornerstone Christian Preschool Private School 700 W. Rosser St. Prescott 928.771.2754 www.prescottcornerstone.com/ preschool

Discovery Gardens Early Childhood Center

Prescott Unified School District 300 E. Gurley St. Prescott 928.442.1283 www.prescottschools.com/ discoverygardens

James Family Prescott YMCA 750 Whipple St. Prescott 928.445.7221 www.prescottymca.org/preschool

Little Dreamers Preschool Academy 7175 E. 2nd St. Prescott Valley 928.800.1488 www.azlittledreamers.com

Little Explorers Learning Academy 12150 E. Turquoise Cir. Dewey 928.379.5068 www.facebook.com/ littleexplorerslearningacademy

Valley Learning Center 2235 AZ-89, Ste.1 Chino Valley 928.636-1656 www.valleylearningcenters.com

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Abia Judd Elementary School

Prescott Unified School District 1749 Williamson Valley Rd. Prescott 928.717.3263 www.prescottschools.com/aj

Coyote Springs Elementary School

Humboldt Unified School District 6625 N. Cattletrack Dr. Prescott Valley 928.759.4300 www.cs.humboldtunified.com

Del Rio Elementary School

Chino Valley Unified School District 1036 North Rd. 1 West Chino Valley 928.636.4414 www.chinovalleyschools.com

Granville Elementary School

Humboldt Unified School District 5250 N. Stover Dr. Prescott Valley 928.759.4800 www.ge.humboldtunified.com

Humboldt Elementary School

Humboldt Unified School District 2750 S. Corral St. Prescott Valley 928.759.4400 www.he.humboldtunified.com

Lake Valley Elementary School

Humboldt Unified School District 3900 N. Starlight Dr. Prescott Valley 928.759.4200 www.lv.humboldtunified.com

Liberty Traditional School

Humboldt Unified School District K-8 3300 N. Lake Valley Rd. Prescott Valley 928.759.4500 www.lib.humboldtunified.com

Sponsored by Guidance Helicopters, Inc.

Lincoln Elementary School

Prescott Unified School District 201 Park Ave. Prescott 928.717.3249 www.prescottschools.com/lincoln

Mayer Elementary School

Mayer Unified School District No. 45 12568 E. Main St. Mayer 928.642.1101 www.mayerschools.org

Mountain View Elementary School

Humboldt Unified School District 8601 E. Loos Dr. Prescott Valley 928.759.4700 www.mv.humboldtunified.com

Taylor Hicks Elementary School

Prescott Unified School District 1845 Campbell Ave. Prescott 928.717.3276 www.prescottschools.com/th

Territorial Early Childhood Center

Chino Valley Unified School District Preschool-2nd Grade 1088 Mahan Lane Chino Valley 928.636.3842 www.tecc.chinovalleyschools.com

MIDDLE SCHOOLS

Bradshaw Mountain Middle School

Humboldt Unified School District 12255 Turquoise Circle Dewey 928.759.4900 www.ms.humboldtunified.com

Glassford Hill Middle School

Humboldt Unified School District 6901 Panther Path Prescott Valley 928.759.4600 www.gh.humboldtunified.com

Granite Mountain School

Prescott Unified School District 1800 Williamson Valley Rd. Prescott 928.717.3253 www.prescottschools.com/gms

Heritage Middle School

Chino Valley Unified School District 1076 North Rd. 1 W. Chino Valley 928.636.4464 www.chinovalleyschools.com

Prescott Mile High

Middle School

Prescott Unified School District 300 S. Granite St. Prescott 928.717.3241 www.prescottschools.com/pmhms

HIGH SCHOOLS

Aspire High School

Yavapai Accomodation School District No. 99 2970 Centerpointe East Dr. Prescott 928.759.8126 www.yavapaicountyhighschool.com

Bradshaw Mountain High School

Humboldt Unified School District High School 6000 Long Look Dr. Prescott Valley 928.759.4100 www.hs.humboldtunified.com

Chino Valley High School

Chino Valley Unified School District 760 E. Center St. Chino Valley 928.636.2298 www.cvhs.chinovalleyschools.com

Prescott High School

Prescott Unified School District 1050 N. Ruth St. Prescott 928.445.2322 www.prescottschools.com/phs

Mayer High School

Mayer Unified School District No. 44 17300 E. Mule Deer Dr. Mayer 928.642.1200 www.mayerhs.mayerschools.org

Yavapai County High School

Yavapai Accomodation School District No. 99 6325 Baja Circle Prescott Valley 928.759.8126 www.yavapaicountyhighschool.com

CHARTER SCHOOLS

Acorn Montessori Schools Preschool-8 8556 E. Loos Dr. Prescott Valley 928.772.5778 www.acornmontessori.com

Arizona Agribusiness and Equine Center (AAEC) High School 7500 E. Skoog Blvd. Prescott Valley 928.775.3200 www.aaechs.com/campuses

BASIS Prescott K-12

1901 Prescott Lakes Pkwy. Prescott 928.277.0334 www.basised.com/prescott

Canyon View Prep Academy High School 9030 E. Florentine Rd. Prescott Valley 928.775.5115 www.canyonview-prep.org

Franklin Phonetic Primary School K-8 6116 E. Hwy. 69 Prescott Valley 928.775.6747 www.franklinphoneticschool.com

La Tierra Community School K-7 124 N. Virginia St. Prescott 928.445.5100 www.latierracommunityschool.org

Mingus Springs Charter School K-8 3600 N. Sunset Dr. Chino Valley 928.636.4766 www.mingusspringsschool.org

Mountain Oak School Preschool-8th Grade 1455 Willow Creek Rd., Prescott 928.541.7700 www.mountainoakschool.org

Northpoint Expeditionary Learning Academy High School 551 1st St., Prescott 928.717.3272 www.northpointacademy.org

Park View Schools Middle School 9030 E. Florentine Rd. Prescott Valley 928.775.5115 www.parkviewschool.org

PACE Preparatory Academy High School 6711 E. 2nd St. Prescott Valley 928.775.9675 www.paceacademy.com

Prescott Valley School K-8 9500 E. Lorna Ln. Prescott Valley 928.772.8744 www.pvschool

Skyview School K-8 125 S. Rush St. Prescott 928.776.1730 www.skyviewschool.org

Tri-City College Prep High School 5th-12th 5522 Side Rd. Prescott 928.777.0403 www.tricityprep.org

Willow Creek Charter School K-8 2100 Willow Creek Rd. Prescott 928.776.1212 www.willowcreekcharter.com

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

ASCEND School

K-12 special education 3021 Centerpointe East Dr. Prescott 928.443.9290 www.azautismascend.org

Orme School High School 1000 E. Orme School Rd. Mayer 928.632.7601 www.ormeschool.org

Prescott Adventist Christian School K-8 2980 Willow Creek Rd. Prescott 928.224.8022 www.prescottadventistchristian school.com

Primavera School Preschool-5th Grade 1446 Moyer Rd. Prescott 928.445.5382 www.primaveraschool.org

Sacred Heart Catholic School Preschool-8th Grade 131 N. Summit Ave. Prescott 928.445.2621 sacredhearteducation.com

Trinity Christian School K-12 1212 Warrior Way Prescott 928.445.6306 www.trinitychristianaz.com

IS YOUR STUDENT BEHIND ACADEMICALLY, Struggling with Behavior?

by Nicole C. Shelton, J.D., Executive Director, AdvocacySD LLC

If so, it’s likely your student may benefit from an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) assessment, IEP and special education services.

An IEP allows your student to receive special education and related services to support academic achievement and behavior challenges.

The first step is to submit a request for a special education or IEP assessment in writing to a school

administrator. This can be done via email. If the school responds to your request for an IEP evaluation by telling you they want to schedule a student study team meeting or the like, get professional support from an educational advocate.

Once the school receives and accepts your request, it will provide you with an assessment plan. After you sign a consent to the assessment plan (schools may not conduct an IEP evaluation without your consent),

the school has 60 calendar days to complete the assessment and hold an IEP meeting to discuss the results.

As part of the assessment process, school professionals will typically look at IQ, processing ability and academic performance. They also may look at speechlanguage, social language, fine motor skills or sensory needs.

During the IEP evaluation, your student will be pulled from his/her classes for school professionals to conduct the IEP assessments. You may be asked to complete rating scales about your student’s behavior, daily living skills or behavior at home.

If your student qualifies for an IEP and special education services under one of 13 federal handicapping conditions (i.e. autism, specific learning disability, etc.), the IEP team will collaborate with you to develop an IEP that includes IEP goals and services to support your student.

The IEP cannot be implemented without your involvement and consent.

For more information is available at www.advocacysd.com.

Photo courtesy of AdocacySD

La Tierra Community School is a public, tuition-free hands-on learning school. For over 10 years, our enthusiasm for the outdoors and exploring the world is matched only by our close ties to every member of our community.

Make Winter Break Fun, PRODUCTIVE FOR KIDS

by Blake Herzog

By the time your school-age child is on winter break, they’ve already done a lot of adjusting and learning.

Winter break is a time when they can kick back a bit and spend more time on fun things like new gifts, holiday events and simply enjoying being with their family and friends.

While they need and deserve plenty of time to frolic outside and in, there are many ways parents can enrich their vacation with positive activities that keep their kids’ brains building and intellect expanding while keeping them on track for continued success once they head back to the classroom.

FIND HANDS-ON LEARNING MOMENTS

You can teach so many life lessons that also have academic applications, such as reading, fractions and science through making a recipe. Younger kids can learn about counting and sorting by helping you do the laundry and other chores while also taking on responsibilities. Board games teach everybody about logic and strategy.

LOOK FOR VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Children as young as 5 or 6 can be enormously helpful in organizing food pantries, picking up trash (with

gloves) and helping to choose old books to donate, while older kids and teens can help at soup kitchens, community gardens, animal shelters, senior centers, libraries, church activities and the list goes on.

Those 12 and younger likely will need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian, while teens can get their first taste of working in environments separate from their family.

decorations, writing and telling stories, coloring books, learning a new hobby or craft or designing their own video game are amazing ways to foster creativity.

MAINTAIN A CONSISTENT SCHEDULE

KEEP

CREATIVE JUICES FLOWING Making Christmas and New Year’s

While their time doesn’t need to be as regulated as it is during the semester, keeping morning and night routines along with meals should be kept consistent to provide a sense of structure and security and enhance self-discipline for when they return to school.

How Do You Get to Carnegie Hall?

If “practice” were still the answer to the age-old question, “How do you get to Carnegie Hall?” then the talented voices of Yavapai College’s Master Chorale would have been there by now.

But it’s also a journey with significant travel costs. So, the Yavapai College Foundation has launched a fundraiser to help local voices sing Verdi’s “Requiem” at one America’s most hallowed performance halls.

“The opportunity to perform at Carnegie Hall is a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” YC Vocal Music Professor Dr. Joshua Harper said. “The history of this iconic performance venue along with the opportunity to sing one of the most famous musical works there – is an unparalleled experience for students.”

The March 2023 trip will include 38 students, drawn from Yavapai College’s Master Chorale and Chorale singers.

They will perform Verdi’s “Requiem” as part of a 250-person chorus, under the direction of Cailin Marcel Manson, a colleague of Dr. Harper and the director of the Concert Choir and Chamber Chorus at Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts. “We’ll fly into New York March 8,” Harper said, “for three days of rehearsal, a dress rehearsal, then we perform March 11. The producer, Mid-America Productions, has arranged a little cruise to celebrate afterwards. Then we fly back March 12.” The trip, with flight, lodging and amenities, is expected to cost $20,000.

For Harper, the trip revives a Yavapai College tradition. “Before I got here, the Master Chorale had a long history of tours and travel. [Former Director] Dr. Will Fisher took them to Mexico and Europe. Jim Klein took them on international tours.” Harper and Dr. Craig Ralston, Yavapai College Performing Art Center’s Director of

Programming and Development, had resolved to continue the tradition, but COVID delayed their plans. “For me, as a music student, tours like this made my dreams start to become a reality,” Harper said. “There’s something about actually going to places like Carnegie Hall, meeting other students like yourself, singing in these venues. It opens up your world view.”

The Yavapai College Foundation has featured the Choral Fund’s Carnegie Hall initiative on the Just Giving platform. Interested donors or fundraising groups can visit the Yavapai College Choral Tour Fund at: www.justgiving.com/ campaign/YCChoralFund22 and pledge any level of support. The Choral Tour Fund closes December 31, 2022. For further information on the Yavapai College Foundation, or the Choral Tour Fund, please contact the YCF at 928.776.2025.

Yavapai College Foundation helps YC’s Master Chorale live that dream

Sacred Heart Catholic School

Being the Living Example of God’s Love to Others

OUR MISSION: Guided by the Sacred Heart of Jesus, we are a community of faith, dedicated to teaching the whole child by providing a Catholic education that promotes academic excellence, quality of character, social responsibility, and spiritual growth, being the living example of God’s love to others.

We provide a broad and relevant curriculum based on our mission, philosophy, and Schoolwide Learning Expectations. We are devoted educators dedicated to curriculum development and best practices in instructional methodology to meet students needs in the 21st century.

We welcome you to visit our school, talk with our faculty and families, and take a tour or shadow for a day. Please contact us to learn more.

At Willow Creek Charter, we believe in the potential of every student and are committed to the success of all. Each student is valued as an individual and we celebrate the unique qualities he or she brings to our family-like community.

Education

Education is the basis for the growth and progress of society, allowing people to contribute more in their areas of expertise and create better communities. Education on every level develops problem-solving skills and provides the opportunity for empowerment through hard work.

Welcome to our newest regular section in Prescott LIVING Magazine, the Education Section! The section appears in every bi-monthly issue including a complete directory, local articles and messages from local schools to help you decide what best suits your personal or family needs.

Great teachers are heroes in a world that has a lot to learn.”

—Vicki Davis

Sponsored by Guidance Helicopters, Inc.

These are just three examples of how our schools in Yavapai County are employing all three modes of learning to the educational process. Adding hands-on learning brings real-world application to sometimes abstract academic subjects. In addition, students learn the value of teamwork and how to resolve conflict, how to persevere to achieve a goal and, finally, how to enjoy the fruits of their labor when the project is completed.

While hands-on learning effectively rounds out a student’s educational environment, there really is no established source of funding for supplies, equipment and other needs for these activities. Teachers wishing to embark on such a program must rely on donations, and in some cases, their own personal funds.

The Yavapai County Education Foundation (YCEF) supplies classroom grants for teachers to meet a variety of needs including hands-on learning. YCEF is a 30-year-old foundation established for the sole purpose of supporting our teachers through classroom grants and by raising public awareness of the positive impact that our schools have on our future. YCEF is a 501(c)3 nonprofit administered by a dedicated group of volunteers. The success and sustainability of programs like this depend on the public’s support and contributions.

You can learn more about YCEF and make a tax-deductible donation by visiting www.ycefoundation.com.

Students learn in the woodworking shop at Heritage Middle School in Chino Valley furnished by resourceful teacher Josh Steinberg.

KEEP

Pet Presents COMING ALL YEAR LONG

by Blake Herzog

Looking for gift ideas for your beloved furball(s)?

Most pet owners are in December and many others are no matter what the calendar says, which is why the pet subscription box industry has been surging in recent years. These boxes deliver food, treats, toys and other supplies that delight animals and their adoring “parents,” making them popular for the entire family!

Most of these services follow the same model to some extent; they offer some combination of treats and toys in each box, with many sending a super-sized first box to newbies. The boxes are tailored to small, medium or large dogs and customization options are common, especially for pets with allergies or other special needs. All donate to animal welfare causes.

If you or someone you know is looking to give back to their pets throughout the year, here are just a few of the options:

BarkBox www.barkbox.com

The leader of the pack has a similar setup to most other subscription boxes on the market. Plans start at $23 per month with two toys, two treats and one chew every month,

known for branded themes ranging from Stranger Things to the National Park Service.

PupJoy www.pupjoy.com

This site sells individual toys and single box orders along with several subscription frequencies, which start at $29 per month. You can build your own box or choose a curated one, and treats have no artificial preservatives, flavors or colors.

Bullymake www.bullymake.com

Many dog-oriented services offer some sort of “super chewer” toy line, but that’s all Bullymake does, along with treats. It offers multiple subscription tiers starting at $31 per month. Note: these “extreme” toys can be too heavy for canines who aren’t in the target demographic.

Meowbox www.meowbox.com

No corporate relation to BarkBox but it’s one of the most popular and highly regarded feline equivalents. At $23.95 per box you can order one each month or every other month, with five to six items included in each including durable toys and healthy treats.

KitNipBox www.kitnipbox.com Subscription plans start at $22.99 and

offer two sizes of boxes intended for single- and multi-cat homes. Shipments tend to focus more on toys than treats, perfect for keeping everyone active and healthy.

Pet Treater www.pettreater.com

This is one of the few that serves two masters and also the budgetfriendliest. The basic cat and dog boxes start at just $15 a month with three to four hand-chosen items each. Treat- or toy-only dog boxes, Deluxe Dog and Multi-Cat packs are also offered for $18 to $25.

RescueBox store.theanimalrescuesite. greatergood.com

By far the most philanthropic option, RescueBox sells dog and cat boxes carrying five premium products each for $29.95, with each purchase feeding up to 142 shelter animals.

SaddleBox www.saddlebox.net

Boxes include horse treats, tack, grooming supplies and more, plus a monthly golden ticket winner wins a free custom saddle. All sales benefit horse rescue groups nationwide, brought to you by the same company as DogSpaBox, PigBox and CoopCrate for chickens!

Photos by Sarah Seisinger Photography

• Dee McKemy volunteered to head up the Silent Auction with her team of Talking Rock friends.

• Jeff McLeod and his team of volunteers handled check-in.

• The Cookie Table was supported by Talking Rock MJ players and other MJ4MUTTS players.

• So many wonderful Silent Auction items were donated and supported by local businesses and artists.

HAVE YOU THOUGHT ABOUT THE FUTURE?

DO YOU HAVE A PLAN?

www.yhslegacy.org

Creating a plan to provide for your family and support the causes you care about is easy with our step-bystep planning guide.

For more information regarding the benefits of creating a will or trust, or to request our FREE planning guide, please contact us today.

Do You Ever Wonder What the Future Holds?

While it’s impossible to know or control what happens in the future, you can achieve your ultimate goals by making a plan. Planning is one way to create a secure future for you and your loved ones.

With a good plan, you can rest easy knowing your family will be well cared for and your property will be passed on to your intended beneficiaries.

How to Create your Bequest

Talk with your attorney. Your attorney can include a provision in your will that directs a gift from your estate to our organization.

Decide on your gift. A bequest to our organization can be a dollar amount, a specific asset (such as your home, artwork or coin collection) or a percentage (10% or 20%) of your estate. A bequest also can be made of the residue of your estate, or what remains after you have provided for your loved ones.

Give us a call. We can provide you with sample language to share with your attorney as well as answer questions about your gift.

Consider a Charitable Beneficiary Designation of your IRA

Designating our organization as a beneficiary of your IRA is another excellent way to help our cause. Your gift also may provide significant tax savings to your heirs and possibly your estate.

If you choose to designate our organization as a beneficiary, we will receive the full proceeds of your gift, tax free. To make this type of gift, please contact your plan administrator and update your account beneficiaries.

Also contact us to let us know how you would like your gift to be used.

Creating your Plan is Easy!

Contact us or visit our website to request a free guide to planning your estate. This fill-in-the-blank guide will help you organize your information before visiting your estate planning attorney.

There are many benefits to you when making a bequest or beneficiary designation gift to us:

• Your gift doesn't cost you anything today

• Your gift is free of federal tax

• You can change your mind

• You can still benefit your heirs with specific gifts

• You can leave a Legacy

If you would like more information on how to make a bequest or charitable beneficiary designation, please call or visit our website. We would be happy to help.

928.445.2666, Ext 101 rmcclish@yavapaihumane.org

Renovation Underway in Granite Creek Corridor

Receipt of a $1-million grant from Arizona State Parks-Land and Water Conservation Fund has initiated enhancement on the Granite Creek Corridor.

Deputy City Manager Tyler Goodman, who serves as project coordinator, said approval of the grant came Sept. 27, with work officially beginning on Oct. 31. It is expected to be complete in April 2023.

Work authorized involved approving a contract with Asphalt Paving & Supply

for just over $3 million. That company was the lowest of three bidders.

Following details outlined in the City’s master plan, renovation will involve cleaning and detailing the creek bed and doing work to protect against erosion and to mitigate flooding along the downtown corridor.

The specific area is from Aubrey Street to Granite Creek Park.

The work should result in enhanced and compacted trail surfaces. Paths should

be safer for walkers, jogger, bikers and those needing handicapped accessibility.

The grant was applied toward the estimated $3-million cost. Other funds to pay the cost will come from bed-tax revenues, other grant funds and donations. The plan also calls for improved lighting and signage, especially in the trail access areas just off Willis Street.

Mayor Phil Goode said he will continue bringing updates to the council and community.

Photo by Jenna Leatherman

Stories by Ray Newton

Stroh Architecture to Develop Restaurant, Hotel, Apartment Project

The winning bid of $2.5 million submitted by Stroh Architecture won that firm the right to redevelop City Hall property that proposes a five-story building that contains a restaurant, hotel and apartment space.

The firm was selected unanimously by the Prescott City Council Oct. 18.

Located on prime property in downtown Prescott at the corner of Cortez and Goodwin streets, the 1.3 acres is designed to contain a 20,000-square-foot hotel, 50 apartment units in the top two of the five stories, and 100 hotel suites.

The proposal also included some underground parking. Stroh said he hoped to integrate the existing historic rearing horse and cowboy statue that currently is at the front of City Hall into the new design.

The existing structure, built in 1962, will be demolished.

Stroh is a local architect who for 32 years has worked in the Prescott area. He also has served on the Prescott Preservation Commission. His efforts have included expansion of the Prescott Public Library, the Prescott Adult Center on Rosser Street, and a major renovation of the Prescott Resort on Highway 69.

(Stroh's public relations representative Denisse Fereloto, from Small Giant, Scottsdale, emphasized renderings are premature and are likely to substantial change.)

Rendering provided by Stroh Architecture, Inc.

YOUR LIVING ROOM NEEDS

Balance in 2023

by Blake Herzog

We’re living in hopeful but complicated times as we enter a new year, so our preferences and desires can be a little contradictory at times.

Our competing needs for soothing and stimulation have created some odd bedfellows in the trend forecasts for living rooms in 2023, but when you put them together they create some intriguing combinations that bring a thoroughly modern feel.

If you’re ready to shake things up in your home’s most defining room, consider how mashing up these trends could give it a totally fresh look!

NEUTRALS WITH A HINT OF WARMTH

The one thing most prognosticators seem to agree on is that neutrals, which have never really gone out of style, will play a big role in 2023 as we seek out calming shades to mediate and relax within.

We’ll want to reproduce a spalike atmosphere at home while favoring mellow, earthy tones on the neutral spectrum like peach, cream, mushroom, burnt orange and gold, mixed with textured whites, grays and charcoals.

SOFAS OR CHAIRS IN BOLD PRIMARY COLORS

Once we set the scene with these neutrals it’s time to pick out furniture, and while we’re at it we might as well go big. Crayola-esque reds, blues, yellows and oranges will act as exclamation points, adding drama and personality to your home’s heart while glowing like jewels against the more subdued shades. Q

SCREENS OF DECEPTION

In the pursuit of a calm, meditative space some homeowners are banishing the TV set from their living room, while others who aren’t able to go quite that far are turning to the latest technology for television concealment.

A “hidden lift” TV cabinet lets you pull it up like a rabbit from a hat, while wall-mounted sets could be concealed by a cabinet disguised as a painting or a set of images that can be folded back.

GLOBALLY INSPIRED PRINTS AND TEXTURES

So much international travel has been curtailed over the last few years, and those who haven’t been able to continue the journey, for whatever reason, have been incorporating patterns from all the continents with the possible exception of Antarctica. Many of these fit into the emphasis on neutrals but many more do not, affording a riot of color and complexity as wall hangings, textiles and more.

RATTAN FURNITURE AND ACCENTS

The simple, organic warmth of this purely natural material has for most of its existence been consigned to the backyard but is now finding a home inside homes as a lovely yet unassuming choice for seating, side tables, floor mats, baskets and grand yet homey decorative flourishes.

CUTTING-EDGE WALLPAPER

This classic wall treatment has been edging its way back into being on-trend and is expected to continue into 2023 as it’s used to give depth to recessed shelves, add artistic or photographic murals and even across ceilings to bring added color and texture to any room.

Gorgeous the Dark HOUSEPLANTS THAT LOVE

by Ken Lain, The Mountain Gardener, Watters Garden Center

Houseplants provide life and vitality to your home, even on the darkest winter days. You will be amazed at how easy these plants are to grow while uplifting the soul.

Many plants like it dark, and the short winter days only make them happier. Here’s the list and their best care.

BIOLOGY OF LOW-LIGHT PLANTS

Large leaves are designed to soak up more light. Others have a waxy outer layer that helps retain moisture and makes them low-maintenance indoor plants.

CARING FOR LOW-LIGHT PLANTS

Low-light plants don’t require as much water, so caring for them can be as simple as planting them in well-drained soil and watering at 2- to 3-week intervals.

TOP 9

Chinese evergreen, Aglaonema, has striking variegated leaves in shades of red, pink, yellow and green. Don’t worry if you travel extensively, or forget to water, this dark lover is super drought hardy. Perfect for people new to houseplants or those who consider themselves black thumb gardeners.

Corn plant, Dracaena fragrans, look like small tropical palms, so they bring a ray of sunshine to that dim, drab area. Place it somewhere without direct sunlight and water occasionally. These plants like to go dry before watering again. Water evenly over the potting medium to avoid rotting the corn plant’s canes. These canes have small root systems and may need to be straightened after traveling home and later as they settle in. Dogs and cats become ill when chewing on this plant.

Moth orchid, Phalaenopsis, when you need bright flowers in a dark corner. Plant in breathable orchid pots using a soilless orchid mix for plants that bloom for months.

Peace lily, Spathiphyllum, have lush, dark green leaves and delicate white flowers. These plants like moisture and

humidity, so water regularly and mist the leaves to keep your lily happy and blooming. When the leaves droop, simply give it a good drink of water and watch it perk back in short order.

Pothos, Epipremnum aureum, Ideally planted in a basket or pedestal so the variegated foliage trails down.

Prayer plant, Maranta leuconeura, adds a pop of color with variegated foliage in rich green, purple, yellow and red. In dark rooms, the variegation becomes more pronounced. Mist the foliage regularly. At night, the leaves point upwards like hands in prayer, where this plant gets its name.

Snake plant, Sansevieria, are perfect for small windowless bathrooms, stairways and bedroom corners. A type of succulent that only needs water when the soil feels completely dry to the touch.

Spider plant, Chlorophytum, thrives in low light and requires only occasional water when the soil feels dry. They send out long spindly leaves and small white flowers that cascade down the edge of containers, making them an excellent for hanging baskets.

Zee Zee plant, Zamioculcas zamiifolia, is easy to maintain. Its glossy, bright green leaves add a cheerful dose of color. ZZs likes to be left alone for long periods so go on a worry-free vacation. This plant will look great when you get back.

Chinese evergreen

Peace lily

Moth orchid

Pothos

PUT YOUR Crawl Space or Attic to Good Use

by Blake Herzog

Most of us have one in our home, whether we’re aware of it or not. It may be a shallow attic tucked under your roof or a crawl space under your floor where wiring, ductwork and a little bit of extra storage space may hide.

Arizona homes usually don’t have basements because of the rocky soil and other factors but still have lowslung, unfinished spaces most people don’t know what to do with other than stuff some holiday decorations and beloved childhood toys inside and dread seeing the condition they’re in once they’re taken out.

Yet there are ways to protect these cavities against the pests, moisture, dust and other contaminants and turn them from a hall of horrors into an asset.

FIND THE FLOOR

If you have an unfinished shallow attic, you first need to figure out whether it has an actual floor beyond the drywall and plaster that sits over the garage or another part of the house.

It needs floorboards supported by floor joists to be able to reliably support any kind of weight. Talk to a local contractor about adding one if you want to use that space.

BANISH CARDBOARD BOXES

They’ll deteriorate anyway, and the process could be hastened by any moisture or rodents who manage to get inside your crawl space or attic. Put everything in labeled plastic tubs with secure lids or other solid containers. You may even have room to add shelves for better organization.

BE SELECTIVE

Candles, food and other temperaturesensitive items are nonstarters unless yours is the rare climate-controlled space. Delicate fabrics, wood or upholstered furniture, important

papers or photos, electronics, paints and solvents also are poor candidates.

Ceramic and glass plates and cookware, sports equipment and luggage are among the best candidates for attic or crawl-space storage.

KEEP UP ON PEST CONTROL

Both types of spaces should regularly be treated by a pest control professional. An unfinished crawl space can be encapsulated with concrete to make it much less of a breeding ground for plant and animal threats.

The Perfect Retaining Wall System

VERSA-LOK retaining wall systems are cost-effective, easy-to-install, and give you endless design options.

VERSA-LOK segmental retaining walls are made from high-strength concrete units, dry-stacked, interlocked with pins, and set on granular leveling pads. These mortarless walls do not need frost footings. And when stabilized with geogrid soil reinforcement, VERSA-LOK walls can be built 50 feet tall and even higher. From intricate landscaping features to tall, commercial walls, VERSA-LOK delivers your best value in segmental retaining wall solutions.

IS IT TIME TO Break Down & ReplaceYOUR DRIVEWAY?

by Blake Herzog

Your driveway is the gateway to your home and can have a serious impact on your curb appeal, so when it starts to develop cracks or potholes it’s a good idea to patch it up quickly.

But whether the culprit is moisture, tree roots or errors made when it was first installed, at some point you’ll need to consider replacing it.

Asphalt and concrete are the two most common surfaces. Asphalt driveways generally have a lifespan of about 25 years while concrete ones can hold together for as long as 40 to 50 years.

Once you make the decision to finally redo a driveway you’ll have more decisions to make, but knowing the end result you want will make it easy to choose:

ASPHALT VS. CONCRETE

Asphalt is more affordable, particularly for longer driveways, but will need to be cleaned regularly and resealed every two to three years. Concrete is more expensive, more durable and requires significantly less maintenance but doesn’t perform as well in colder climates as it’s more likely to crack from freezing and then thawing, as well as road salt and snowplows.

If you’re in an HOA the CC&Rs could be decisive.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT CONTRACTOR

Homeowners may be able to DIY gravel or paver driveways, but if you’re working with the top two surfaces it’s best to find a contractor unless you have significant experience with whichever you’re using.

Get references from friends or professionals and get a few bids, but don’t automatically go with the lowest one.

WHEN TO DO IT

The weather plays a huge role in the proper timing of your project. Winter is generally out for both types of driveways, so you can start planning your project now. Asphalt requires warm (but not too hot) temperatures so spring and summer are the high seasons for this kind of work while concrete does best in milder weather so fall and spring are your best bets.

Your contractor will need to watch the forecast for rain in either case.

The

Welcome to beautiful Prescott Arizona! As a fourth generation native, I am passionate about helping people make our town their home! Whether it’s buying or selling, let me help you achieve your homeownership goals, while making you feel like a part of the family.

Coffee Table Give Your Some Buzz

by Blake Herzog

When was the last time you really noticed your coffee table? If you can’t remember exactly what’s there it’s time to think about switching it up a little — or a lot!

It may be buried under books, magazines and mail or completely bare, but whatever its status it’s not adding anything to the room at this point.

Here are some ways you can make it the vibrant focal point it should be.

GO WITH GREEN

A fresh vase of flowers is beautiful on a coffee table until it’s notso-fresh and you’re scrambling to replace it. A houseplant is a more sustainable and dependable choice, with plenty of low-fuss options if you don’t have a good track record with these charming little beasts. If only a faux plant will work, find a good one that will keep ‘em guessing!

TRAY CHIC

This is the best method of corralling remotes, controllers, keys and other important accessories; baskets collect too much dust and invite you to pile on too much making little actually findable.

Pick a tray to set or match the tone of the surrounding décor, whether it’s glam, rustic, vintage or eclectic.

FIGURE SOMETHING OUT

An eye-catching statue or art object is more effective than nearly anything else at anchoring your table at the center of the room. Look for figures that are tall or upward-facing enough to engage everyone sitting around the table.

DON’T COAST ON COASTERS

These are pretty much a requirement if you’re planning to actually have coffee at your coffee table, so take this chance to find some as decorative as they are functional like repurposed LP or 45 labels, puzzle pieces or racked coasters that form a cute animal figure.

HAVE FUN ON THE SIDE

If you need to leave space for a laptop, board games or other anticipated frequent uses try sliding all your knickknacks over to one end of the table. This will give it a slightly edgy, off-center appeal even when the other side is empty.

Photo by Pat Zimmerman

Get a Hot Tub for Yourself, Not Home Value

Greater Prescott has what could be called the perfect hot-tub climate. Winters are chilly but not Flagstaff - or Fargo-level freezing for months on end, spring and fall are the sweet spots for simmering and even many summer nights are cool enough for the backyard spa to beckon.

Yet adding one isn’t going to be a surefire way to boost your home’s resale value.

A standalone unit that isn’t recessed into the ground is usually considered personal property and not considered when a home’s value is being calculated. You might get more

money from selling it on the used hot-tub market, where it could fetch as much as one-third of its original price or be traded in for a discount on your next one, if you aren’t interested in hauling it to your new place.

A built-in hot tub or spa will be considered as your home is appraised

by Blake Herzog

but in most cases won’t boost the valuation on its own. Yet the surrounding landscaping and amenities like a deck or gazebo probably will end up in the “plus” column, so if you want and will use a hot tub integrate it attractively into your property — it’ll be even more enjoyable, too!

A TUB COULD SPEED UP A SALE

Most people love to sit back and relax in a spa but not as many are interested in owning and maintaining one. They tend to land on one side of the fence or the other, eager to take on the expense so they can soak whenever they want or fearful of money and safety issues, especially if there will be young children around. It’s impossible to predict which kind of potential buyers you get, but there’s a good chance some of them will see an immaculate, smoothrunning tub as a bonus that helps put your home at the top of their list.

A nonworking unit will always be a drain on your value and pool of customers, however, so be prepared to fix it or take it out before putting your house on the market.

At Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty, we have found that adequately representing unique properties requires unique skills. Over the years, our agents have developed innovative marketing tools and relationships with some of the most quali ed buyers in the world. They have also developed a love for getting to know a house down to its most intimate detail. In the end, we don't so much sell a home as part with it. To market a distinctive home requires uncommon knowledge and resources, allow us to represent you.

A legacy of real estate. A mastery of real estate marketing.

A PEEK INTO THE OF IRELAND Magic

(Part 2)

Story and photos by Tori Ward, ROX Travel, Cruise and Resort Specialist

It was wet and cold with a foggy mist drifting across Pollacappul Lake. The weather deterred other tourists, and I found myself alone on the wooded paths around the stately former castle of Kylemore Abbey bordered by the lake on one side, the Connemara Mountains on the other and bookended by a gothic chapel dedicated to the wife of the original builder and the Victorian walled gardens she enjoyed.

I suddenly discovered I was not alone when a ewe crashed down through one of the

streams flowing from the mountain. She rolled her martyred eyes at me as her lambs caught her on the shore and began feeding.

Of all the beautiful places we visited in Ireland, this location touched me with an ache of longing to learn everything I could about the Henry family, the tragedy that touched them, and later the Benedictine Order of nuns who fled from Belgium and founded the abbey. It operated as a convent school until 2010.

It was a quiet break from the busy weekend we had enjoyed with a ferry trip on Saturday to visit the Cliffs of Moher in the morning, an afternoon in the village of Bunratty and a dash to Galway on Sunday.

The wind was fierce creating a perfect backdrop for the dramatic panorama of vertical cliffs stretching for around 9 miles above the pounding Atlantic Ocean. I considered how many years the sea has beat against the Cliffs of Moher creating the outline of which Ireland is so famous.

Chapel at Kylemore Abbey

Bunratty reminded me very much of my beloved St. Augustine, Florida. Not the castle, but the restored village with homes and shops selling artisanal goods. I can’t resist pottery and spent a pleasant hour chatting with the potter at O’Neill’s as he carefully wrapped the plates and a cup I carried back.

As we settled in for the evening, I asked Gordon, our private guide, how far the closet church was so I could attend Mass on Sunday. I mentioned I could go to a 7 a.m. service if it would help us keep on schedule. It was the only time I saw him at a loss for words.

He finally said: “Sure, and you won’t find a priest up at 7 here on a Sunday. 10 will do.”

Finally our last full day arrived. We sat down for an opulent high tea in the shadow of Trim Castle, but I secretly wished I just had a piece of Irish soda bread toasted with butter and black current jam. How have I lived so long and not known about black current jam?

Trim Castle is as imposing as the Braveheart movie makes it appear with towers, moats, drawbridges and narrow stone gates that prevented the enemy from pouring onto the

grounds. It is the largest and best preserved Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland dating back to the 12th century. The town provided great last minute shopping.

As the sun set the wind and rain picked up we heard the song “We are the World.” Looking out onto the castle grounds we saw a choir of school children braving the elements to record the song as a fundraiser for Ukraine.

It was a perfect end to a magical trip.

Cliffs of Moher

Trim Castle

Ewe on a path at Kylemore Abbey

Celebrate the Holidays with New & Old Traditions

by Tracey Horn, Helken & Horn Ad Agency

Prescott’s First Annual Christmas Village & Christkindl Market will be held Dec. 16, 17 and 18 on West Goodwin Street in front of the Prescott Chamber of Commerce in downtown Prescott. Inspired by a centuries-old European tradition, the Christkindl Market will feature hand-crafted ornaments and other unusual gift items from local artisans and vendors. Kids can visit Santa (Saint Nikolaus), enjoy the kids’ carousel, kids’ Ferris wheel, bounce house and the Kinder Korner activities tent. Santa will meet with children, plus he will do storytelling and special performances. All ages will enjoy wagon rides with Clydesdale Horses around Courthouse Plaza, aglow with lights. There will be a variety of traditional German foods, as well as The Bier &

Mulled Wine Garten. The event will also feature a traditional German band, the Christkindl Angel, plus an aerialist performing acrobatics, and choirs from local schools. Hours: Friday, Dec. 16 from 4 p.m.-8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 17, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 18, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. This event is sponsored by Arizona Office of Tourism, Desert Financial Credit Union, Experience Prescott Office of Tourism, Prescott Chamber of Commerce and Hensley Beverage Company. Admission is free, some rides and activities may require a small fee. Visit arizonachristmascity.com for more information.

The holidays wrap up in Prescott with the 12th Annual Whiskey Row New Year’s Eve Boot Drop.

If you are fortunate enough to be on Whiskey Row in downtown Prescott, Arizona at the stroke of 10 p.m. or midnight you will be thrilled by the oneof-a-kind spectacle of the Whiskey Row New Year’s Eve Boot Drop. Thousands will welcome 2023 on Dec. 31st from 7:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. This will be free for all ages. The festive 6-foot illuminated cowboy boot is lowered down a 40-foot flagpole for two drops, the first at 10 p.m. and the second at midnight. As the crowd cheers each drop, fireworks will light up the night sky. Food vendors, carnival games and rides and live music from Phoenix band The Pickup Lines will weave throughout the night. The Whiskey Row Boot Drop event is woven into Prescott’s holiday spirit and is a fitting closing celebration in Arizona’s Christmas City.

The Boot Drop is presented by Desert Financial Credit Union, Experience Prescott Office of Tourism, and Prescott Outpatient Surgical Center. For more information visit www.bootdrop.com or call 800.975.0013.

Photo by Marchetti Photo

She Walked

by Tod Christensen

She was strolling through her memories one day passing by her childhood and her friends she would play. She rounded the corner to her teenage years and winced at the moments that had brought her to tears.

After her teens she entered the young adult block where she had to take an honest look at herself and take stock. Falling in love was what everyone expected and she fell but it wasn’t really love and time would tell.

Sure there would be some happiness and the children she adored but life wasn’t what it should be and that fact she clearly ignored. She saw herself buying into all the false gods trying to find happiness with the external and facades.

She watched herself become someone she didn’t even know gone was her self-confidence from long ago. She saw herself trying her best to conform and when she didn’t, oh how it brought on the storm.

The marriage ended mercifully but painfully as well, at that low moment she covered up and went into her shell. But then something truly amazing occurred because in her mind and her heart something had stirred.

She remembered who she was and was always meant to be strength, beauty, grace and kindness was she. She began to live the life she should have always had; it’s never too late and her heart was now glad.

She smiled as she passed through the next decade or two she saw all the memories and the time and how it flew. Her only regret now was that she wished she could explain to her beautiful self that time would eventually drain. How every day and moment is precious and quick, and to stop wasting time as the clock steadily tics.

She wished she could shake herself and wished she had talked to herself as she neared the end of the journey she walked.

At Residence Inn, a suite is more than just a room – it’s a space for you to spread out, open up and be yourself. And with our convenient location right between Prescott and Prescott Valley, you’ll be close to everything. We’re operated by local people who live here and know the area. We’re part of the community and it shows! Enjoy your stay!

Located in historic downtown Prescott, it’s an easy walk to Whiskey Row, local restaurants and nightlife. We’re operated by local people who live here and know the area. We’re part of the community and it shows! Enjoy your stay!

50 YEARS IN THE

A Theater Making

by Blake Herzog

The architecture of the building just completed on Marina Street north of Willis Street fits its historic downtown Prescott location. Yet it embodies the future of live entertainment and of an organization that has been bringing it to the community for more than a half-century.

The people around Suze’s Prescott Center for the Arts (PCA) have been dreaming big since the beginning. As soon as the former Sacred Heart Catholic Church was donated to the newly formed Prescott Fine Arts Association in 1968 as a home for community theater, the

founders began to say, “Just think what we could do with a second building,” PCA Executive Director Robyn Allen says.

Now the historic church building, converted into a theater with an art gallery and other amenities, has a new sibling — a 99-seat studio theater, built “in the round” for a more intimate audience experience.

It has state-of-the-art projectors and sound systems that immerse the performers and audience in deep forest, outer space or whatever world a production is creating, greatly reducing

the need to build or modify sets for each show.

“It’s a much greener, more technological way to produce shows,” Allen says, allowing more flexibility with staging. The new equipment also will provide new training opportunities for participants in PCA’s summer youth program, which will expand into the additional space provided by the new structure.

“I think our dream for these kids is not necessarily for them to become a leading stage performer and end up on Broadway, but to have somebody

Renderings by Otwell Associates Architects

building sets or working on lights and sound and decide they’re interested in becoming a technician,” she says.

The 8,400-square-foot structure includes extensive rehearsal and classroom space that will host visual arts along with performance classes, making it a hub for all forms of art.

There is an expanded art gallery and box office/concession sales area, plus a 100-seat amphitheater next to the building, expected to be open this summer.

Much of this space can be rented for private events as the nonprofit adds revenue sources.

New offices and a generous storage space for five decades’ worth of costumes and props, which had been stuffed into a small room and every available nook and cranny in the main building, will make it much

easier for PCA to function day to day.

PCA is continuing its fundraising efforts to cover $1.3 million in construction cost increases due to the pandemic and

A New Act Begins

Suze’s Prescott Center for the Arts, 208 N. Marina St. in Prescott, has scheduled four productions in its new studio theater during the first half of 2023:

• Picasso at the Lapin Agile Jan. 11-22

• The Clean House Feb. 9-19

• The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time April 13-23

• 12 Angry Jurors May 25-June 4

For tickets and more information visit www.pca-az.net or call 928.445.3286.

inflation, with Allen thanking Pinnacle Bank for supporting its interim financing.

“Now let’s get this theater open so we can start paying it back!” she says.

STEP INTO Artful Dimension ON 4TH FRIDAYS

by Blake Herzog

For almost 19 years Prescott’s art scene has been unified and boosted by the 4th Friday Art Walks, which have taken the First Fridays concept popularized on Phoenix’s Roosevelt Row and elsewhere around the nation and made it “Everybody’s Hometown’s” own.

Patti Ortiz, who oversees the event’s website and Facebook page — and is marketing and art education director at ‘Tis Art Center and Gallery — says the name was inspired by Einstein’s fourth dimension of space and time.

The event quickly caught on, regardless of occasional confusion when a month ends with five Fridays. “It’s a night when galleries are staying open late,

FOURTH FRIDAY ART WALKS

they have something going on, and visitors are welcome to come meet the artist and experience what’s going on in the galleries at the time,” Ortiz says.

Since its debut in March 2004 — the original February date was scrubbed by 4 inches of snow — the art walk has attracted aficionados throughout Prescott and the rest of the state to Prescott’s historic downtown to peruse and purchase paintings, sculptures and almost any other art object imaginable from the city’s thriving gallery scene.

Hundreds turn out each month for the walk that currently has 13 participating galleries, down from a peak of 21 just before the pandemic. The walk runs from 5 to 7 p.m.; some galleries

extend their hours to 8 p.m. or beyond. Most feature a reception for the artist featured in a current exhibit or another special event.

Monthly details are available at www. artthe4th.com and a brochure is available at each gallery, the Prescott Chamber of Commerce and some 70 other locations around the community.

Ortiz says the art walks have helped the arts community expand and flourish while helping to diversify the nightlife downtown.

“Having this once a month, people know ‘we can go out to eat, go to the galleries, or we could skip eating and eat at the galleries’,” she says.

Upcoming art walks are scheduled from 5-7 p.m. on Dec. 23, Jan. 27 and Feb. 24.

Participating galleries include:

• Art2 (Art Squared)

• Arts Prescott Cooperative Gallery

• Carrie Weldon Gallery

• Duran Studio

• Founding Fathers Collective

• Gallery Beyond Words

• Ian Russell Gallery of Fine Art

• Mountain Artists Guild

• Natural History Institute

• Suze’s Prescott Center for the Arts Art Gallery

• ‘Tis Art Center & Gallery

• Van Gogh’s Ear

• Yavapai College Art Gallery

Photo of glass artist Bandhu Dunham sharing the magic of his work with a visitor at Van Gogh's Ear gallery during a 4th Friday Art Walk. Photo courtesy of Patti Ortiz.

Photo by Blushing Cactus Photography

SLIDE OVER YOUR WORRIES

On a Sled

by Blake Herzog

As snowy as Greater Prescott can get, we still don’t reliably get to enjoy classic winter sports like skiing, ice skating, snowboarding and the like. Sledding is a different story.

Almost anyone can enjoy it, and you can use almost anything to do it, which makes it much easier to drop anything you’re doing and go where you need to when the stars and storms align to make it a possibility.

Many of our prime sledding spots are in Prescott National Forest, where you can drive down Walker Road, Senator Highway, Copper Basin Road and to the White Spar Campground on Highway 89. Mountain Valley and Fain parks in Prescott Valley also are possibilities, and of course there are great snow play areas in Williams and Flagstaff. Q

Sledding as an activity is pretty intuitive, but there are a few pointers:

KNOW YOUR VEHICLE

Sledding is the mother of all winter inventions, with many of us growing up while using such basic “sleds” as a cafeteria tray, sturdy piece of cardboard or an inner tube or pool toy, while grownups have been bringing everything from kayaks to yoga mats to the hill.

These will work but make sure you and everyone else using them know the risks involved and how to mitigate them, such as always sledding feet-first and rolling off before the sled crashes.

It’s a better idea to use a product designed for the task, whether it’s a snow saucer or, best of all, a full-blown sled you can brake and steer. Never overload the sled.

DRESS WARMLY

This is for your comfort as well as safety. Securely bundling up with sweaters and warm pants, coats, gloves, socks and snow boots will allow you to enjoy your sledding adventure for as long as you want to, as well as protect you against frostbite.

Avoid wearing cotton because it can trap frigid water next to your skin, and be careful if you wear a scarf, keeping it tucked inside your coat so it won’t get caught underneath.

Top it off with a helmet to protect against head injury.

PICK THE RIGHT SLOPE

You must find a hill free of visible obstacles such as trees, rocks and fences, and be wary of snow drifts, which are especially likely to be concealing boulders or rocks when

you’re in Northern Arizona. Also make sure it has a wide landing area that won’t send you flying into a street, parking lot or a lake or pond.

Avoid hills populated by aggressive sledders or skiers, and don’t try one that’s too steep or icy for your comfort level.

NO DRIVING

Nobody should ever be pulled on a sled behind a car, ATV or other motorized vehicle. They won’t have control over their movement, and the driver may not see it if they get into trouble.

MAKE IT A FAMILY OCCASION

Always supervise children and teens as they’re sledding, and take this chance to be a big kid yourself!

YAVAPAI COUNTY

Cowboy Action Shooting

Fun for the entire family!

by Alan "Cholla" Garbers

My eyes were squinted against the Arizona sun as my thoughts raced on what was to come. I heard gunfire in the distance and knew the time to draw iron was coming. They were all there; Bronc, The Butcher, Lead Feet, Tramp, and even the notorious prince of the outlaws, Kid Earp.

Suddenly I was firing as fast as I could get my guns in action. My Model ‘73 rifle spat lead. My shotgun bucked against my shoulder, but still, I needed more. My revolvers flashed in the sun like a rattlesnake’s tongue. Then it was over. Bronc yelled out “Thirtyfive and clean! Good job Cholla!”

Welcome to the sport of Cowboy Action Shooting, the game in which the shooters dress the part and shoot guns from the pre-1899 cowboy era. In some ways, it’s like modern tactical shooting competitions. We shoot targets in a pattern and gun sequence as given by the stage writer. But, the guns are replicas of those used in the Old West. Ruger Vaqueros, a copy of the Winchester Model 73 rifle, and a CZ hammer coach shotgun are my tools of the trade.

The Single-Action Shooting Society (SASS) is the largest cowboy shooting organization in the nation. Categories are age-based and sex-based, but they can also be broken down into shooting style, and costume style. While there are minimum clothing requirements, a

shooter doesn’t have to dress full cowboy (or cowgirl) to compete.

Yavapai County is blessed with three SASS clubs. The oldest and best known is the Whiskey Row Gunslingers which shoots at the range by Wilhoit. The Yavapai Rangers shoot between Cottonwood and Sedona. The newest club is the Granite Mountain Outlaws. They compete at the Compass Training Center in Chino Valley. Each club has one match a month on different weekends, which allows shooters to compete three weekends a month if they want a little lead therapy.

One unique feature of SASS is there are no monetary prizes or sponsorships. This fosters an environment where the top

shooters help and cheer on the bottom shooters. Shooters can range from nine to ninety, and generations of family members often shoot together.

At SASS matches the targets are big and close and the time used to shoot the stage is the score. A match is generally six stages. Revolvers must be single-action. Rifles must be of pistol caliber.

If this sounds like fun, go to a match and watch. Ask about new shooter clinics where you can try the guns and shoot some stages. Some “cowboy” guns are not suited for CAS competition, so please, don’t buy anything before seeing what other shooters use.

Interested? Come see us.

Shotgun Shannon takes aim at the Steel Target Gang!

over 20 years of combined experience, the staff at Arizona Field Optics are an authority on field optics and their many uses. Whether you use your glass for nature viewing, hunting, recreational shooting, or anything else, we can educate and assist you in making the right choice for you. We use our optics on a daily basis and have an intimate understanding of how they are used. Even more than our knowledge, we pride ourselves first and

North Storm Ranch Open Space

AVAILABLE TO PUBLIC SPRING '23

by Joe Baynes, Director of Recreation Services, City of Prescott

North Storm Ranch is a 462-acre ranch in the heart of the Granite Dells originally homesteaded by the Storm family in 1926. This part of the Storm Ranch was identified as a very high priority for conservation in the Council adopted Open Space Master Plan.

Through the generosity of the Storm family and with funding provided by this program, the City was able to complete the sale on Oct. 5 for the benefit of our citizens and visitors

With the completion of the sale behind us, design and trail construction will begin this winter and will provide for trail access available to the public in spring 2023. The trails will provide spectacular views of Prescott and the surrounding area including Watson and Willow lakes.

OPEN SPACE HISTORY

The citizens of Prescott passed an initiative in 2000 to fund open space purchases with a portion of sales tax monies. Public forums in 2002 helped clarify priorities and suggest potential open space sites.

Mayor Rowle Simmons assembled the Open Space Advisory Committee in 2003 to advise the City Council on strategies for open space acquisition and stewardship.

In 2008, the Open Space Advisory Committee produced an Open Space Master Plan that identified properties suitable for conservation; the plan was subsequently adopted by the City Council.

Prescott’s open space program seeks to promote quality of life for the citizens of Prescott by preserving and protecting

the natural environment that has given this City much of its character.

Its natural areas include magnificent vistas and panoramas, beautiful terrain and native flora and fauna. Hills, sloping sites and dominant rock outcroppings afford spectacular views of this natural environment. Seasonal streams and man-made lakes with their plant and animal life complement these scenic vistas.

Prescott’s unique natural areas must be preserved and protected for the enjoyment of current and future generations through the judicious use of open space funds.

North Storm Ranch, while 3 miles from downtown Prescott, has the remote feel that will allow for a human connection to the great outdoors. Let’s get out and explore!

Photo by Chris Hosking, Trails/Park Land Planner, City of Prescott

Blazin’ M Greets Fall, Winter Guests with Holiday Hoedown

Brisk days and evenings prompted the Blazin’ M Ranch to stage what they call “Holiday Hoedowns” Nov. 29 through Dec. 30.

Owners Ryan and Leila Glass said special activities for younger kids include bounce houses, face-painting, Putt-Putt golf, wall climbing and a mechanical bull.

For the older folks, the Westernmotif frontier town is in full service with wagon rides, shopping, a saloon, vendors, target shooting, axe throwing, photo studio and other memory-makers.

“We’ve planned our program to be appropriate for the season. On show nights, when the barn opens where we serve our tasty home-cooked meal of chicken and barbecue ribs and all the fixins’, including a not-to-beforgotten dessert of spice cake with cream cheese, we’ll follow that with our hour-long family-appropriate musical show,” the two said.

“We’ve tailored the show this year so it’s fresh and memorable. Some talented entertainers and musicians will perform the music of noted western and country stars like Chris Stapleton, George Strait, Jerry Lee Lewis, Tonya Tucker, Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers, Bob Willis and the Texas Playboys, Elvis Presley and Patsy Cline.”

Named a Trip Adviser ‘Traveler’s Choice’ Just recently the Blazin’ M Ranch received a TripAdvisor recommendation as a popular place to visit in the Verde Valley. Located on 1835 Mabery Ranch Road, the renovated frontier town has become an attraction for regional and national travelers.

Several shows are being offered at discounted fares. Group rates are available. With plenty of free parking, tickets are available at the entry gate or by calling the main office at 800.937.8643. More information can be found online at www.blazinm.com.

Stories by Ray Newton

&

TOD CHRISTENSEN

Managing Broker, Russ Lyon Sotheby's International Realty

Q: How did you become interested in your career field?

A: Actually a very good friend of mine who owned a real estate company hounded me for years to become a Realtor. Eventually I gave in; now 25 years later he expects me to thank him every year!

Q: What is the greatest reward of your job?

A: I do very little personal selling anymore. My primary role is hiring and training Realtors, so my greatest reward is watching someone enjoy the success that I’ve been fortunate to have.

I hire a lot of teachers who are used to working hard, being underappreciated, and getting paid far less than they are worth. Then I get to watch them take off in a field where all those same attributes are needed, but they get paid much better and instead of dreaming of things they want they are now planning for them.

Q: Where would you like to vacation next; why?

A: I’ve never been to Scotland, and I would like to go there next. I’ve been to Ireland and loved it, and my older brother said Scotland was like Ireland on steroids. So I need to see that!

Q: If you could have dinner with any three to five people dead or alive, who would they be?

A: Love this question! I’m going to discount all religious leaders so it doesn’t turn into a debate.

1. Abraham Lincoln. I think he had the hardest job of all and would love to hear some personal perspective.

2. Robin Williams. I’m not a huge celebrity fan, but he seems like a lot of fun and was genuinely a nice guy.

3. Winston Churchill for the same reasons as Lincoln.

He had an amazingly difficult job, so I wouldn’t mind sharing a brandy with him.

4. Will Rogers. My roots, and to some degree my current life, are all cowboy, so talking to the first really famous cowboy entertainer would have to be interesting!

Q: What is your favorite Prescott activity?

A: I’m really going to stereotype myself! Prescott has so many fun little things to do, but my favorite is still a night of dancing at Matt’s Saloon. Not too many of those western bars left, and a night on the dance floor with a good partner is about as good as it gets.