Prescott Mayor Phil Goode

“Recently, Prescott was in the news because of several sightings of mountain lions in the area, and reports of several family pets killed while unattended, along with reports of numerous sightings on security cameras. As citizens, there are steps we can take to minimize the possibility of an unwanted wildlife encounter.

“Because of the beautiful wilderness around us, Prescott citizens live in an area where humans are in close contact with wild animals every day. As citizens, it is our responsibility to behave in a way that limits contact with these animals and lets them live peacefully around us,

EVENTS but not with us. One of the first things we can do is to refrain from feeding or watering wildlife in our yards or where we recreate.

“In fact, Prescott has an ordinance in place, prohibiting feeding of most wild animals for this very reason. Ordinance

5-3-16 OUTDOOR FEEDING AND PROTECTION OF WILDLIFE.

“Why is this ordinance in place? To protect our citizens and the wildlife. What seems like a harmless and even friendly act can upset the balance of our ecosystem and leads to these sometimes deadly encounters for wildlife.

• Faire on the Square — Arts & Crafts Show

“The simple act of obeying the City’s ordinance and refraining from feeding and intentionally watering wildlife where you live or recreate, can help avoid future uncomfortable encounters. We live in this beautiful wilderness, and we can live respectfully with our animal neighbors if we act responsibly.”

Sept. 2-4, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily; Downtown Prescott at the Yavapai County Courthouse Plaza; includes vendors, goods, snacks and shopping while also getting an entertaining show from the Prescott Regulators and Their Shady Ladies. More information at www.experienceprescott.com/event/faire-on-the-square-arts%26-craft-show/14.

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

“We have some exciting things coming to fruition in Prescott Valley, including road improvements throughout the Town.

“Jasper Parkway, a connector road from Santa Fe Loop just west of the Granville subdivision south to Highway 69, is now underway. The complete overhaul of Glassford Hill Road from Highway 69 to Panther Path in both directions began in June and will rebuild the road from the base up.

“Recently we received the exciting news that the state of Arizona awarded the Town $9.9 million for the addition of a third lane in each direction on Glassford Hill Road from Long Look Drive to Highway 89A, along with sidewalks and curb/gutter.

“Glassford Hill is the lifeline of Prescott Valley and sees around 35,000 cars a day, so these improvements are most welcome.