Vol. 12, No. 11
April 2011
The Raven Review AN INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER SERVING CENTRAL AND NORTHERN ARIZONA
Uranium mining jeopardizes Grand Canyon communities By Simone Crowe Staff Writer FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. -- Over a thousand uranium mines have already contaminated water across the Southwest, poisoning communities with radiation that leads to cancer, harming the biodiversity of rivers and dissipating toxic ore-dust into the air. Despite the immeasurable damage the mess of these abandoned mines has inflicted, the Federal government and foreign mining companies want to continue uranium mining in the Grand Canyon. Currently federal mineral land, this area of the Grand Canyon has been subjected to mining since 1872, due to the antiquated General Mining Law. In 2009, the federal government mandated a two-year moratorium on The Grand Canyon ecosystem at risk due to mining. Photo courtesy of Grand Canyon Trust.
Phoenix freeway threatens people and wildlife By Maria Johnson Staff Writer PHOENIX -- A proposed eight-lane freeway threatens to permanently scar the fourth largest city park in the world, South Mountain Park and Preserve. If approved, the addition could destroy 120 homes, harm Sonoran Desert flora and fauna and cost Arizona taxpayers $1.9 billion. In the southwest corner of Phoenix, South Mountain breaks the trend of flat land and the busy city. The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) began plans for a freeway in this area near Ahwatukee Foothills in 1983. Since then, ADOT has had to revise its original plan many times, due to budget restrictions and disapproval from the local community. Tracy Garretson, an Ahwatukee Foothills resident since 2004 said, “We were never told that [the 202] was going to turn into an eight or ten-lane highway. Our local realtor also never divulged this information to us. I never dreamed I needed to research if a future highway might be built in
our neighborhood.” In 2001, ADOT bought land within the proposed South Mountain Freeway route as part of a plan to develop a regional freeway system. According to ADOT, the purpose for this section of freeway is, “To improve mobility in the region by increasing capacity and providing alternatives to allow traffic, including truck traffic, to bypass already congested routes.” Following this purchase, they began work on an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to determine what the environmental, social and economic effects building the freeway would cause. An EIS is required by law for all major federal actions that may have a considerable impact on the environment. Several years later, the Gila River Indian Community (GRIC), located just south of the proposed freeway, appointed South Mountain as a sacred place and traditional cultural property. Constructing the freeway on GRIC land developed as an option by 2010, despite previous objection from the community. Currently, the GRIC is in the
process of voting on the freeway. With approval, the route would run south from 51st Avenue in Phoenix, past Pecos Road and onto Gila River land, connecting with Loop 202 just beyond 48th Street and Pecos Road. With disapproval, the alternate Pecos route would displace more than 100 families, close a church and destroy three mountain ridges. Aside from the destruction of their homes, community members have expressed numerous other concerns. The fragile ecosystems of the Gila River and South Mountain crime and pollution have been other fears associated with the construction of the freeway. Garretson commented, “A highway would bring more crime to our area; I feel very safe out here right now. It would also bring harm to all the wildlife. This is a big concern to us with noise, pollution and quality of life. We love the peace and quiet out here at the end of Ahwatukee.” Decisions are set to be finalized mid-2011, after the release of the EIS, public hearings and community feedback.
mining, protecting the land and surrounding communities from the hazards of mine development. With the expiration date looming, pressure from foreign mining companies and the history of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) allowing invalidated mines, the ecological health of the Grand Canyon vicinity could be at risk. In February 2011, the Secretary of Interior, Ken Salazar, proposed to withdraw one million acres of mineral land for 20 years, protecting the Grand Canyon vicinity from any mining. As part of this initiative, the Obama Administration requested an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) of the area that would be affected by the mines. In order to prepare the Cont. on p.3
Haiti relief organization calls for volunteers
Haitian children and Kristopher Young, founder of PROViDE. Photo courtesy of Kristopher Young.
For successful change, PROViDE advocates collaboration By Erika DeLeo Staff Writer For some organizations, relief means food, blankets and shelter for the needy. For Kristopher Young, founder of sustainable disaster relief organization PROViDE, it means a rubber tire garden, a tree nursery and a baby goat. PROViDE stands for
Participatory Response Offering Vitality in Devastated Environments -- with the key word being “participatory.” The organization works with Haitians to find solutions to alleviate poverty and environmental degradation. When the poorest country in the western hemisphere was hit with its worst Cont. on p.8
NEWS
FEATURES
E N T E RTA I N M E N T
OPINION
LOCAL
Prescott College’s BFA..............p.2 Medical marijuana................p. 2 Prescott’s homeless..................p. 3
Religion in government...........p. 4 Raw milk farms....................p. 5 History of Prescott..............p. 6
Sun and moon horoscopes..p.10 DeVotchKa............................p.10 Things to do in Prescott......p.12
Granite Mountain safety......p.13 Ask Erika ............................p.13 Whiskey Wisdom..............p.13
PC healthcare......................p.14 Prescott wildlife...................p.15 Adventure destinations.......p.16
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-News-
The Raven Review April 2011
All you need to know about Arizona’s new marijuana law By Amber Faigin Staff Writer Since Proposition 203 passed last November, a lot of wild rumors have been flying around about the implementation of new medical marijuana laws in Arizona. The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) released its 92-page document on March 28, listing the rules and regulations for the program. For those who are still in the dark about the new law, here are the basics:
Graphic by Amber Faigin.
Q: When will I start to see the effects of the new medical marijuana law? A: In mid-August, ADHS will begin accepting applications to certify dispensaries, so look for the occasional new business to pop up. Q: Is this going to turn into a ‘recreational’ law, like what they have in California?
A: This law is very different from California’s law and is much more restrictive as to who can buy or sell marijuana. To be clear, marijuana is still an illegal drug. Only qualifying patients with a prescription can posses medical marijuana. Q: Will people be able to consume marijuana in public now? A: Under the new law it is still illegal to consume marijuana on public transit or in public spaces. The law only protects patients taking their medicine in a private setting. Q: How can I get access to a prescription? A: On April 14, ADHS will begin accepting applications from patients with qualifying medical conditions. In order to submit one of these forms, you must first get a recommendation from a licensed medical doctor, with whom you have an established
To advertise with The Raven Review, please contact Rebecca Antsis at theravenreview@gmail.com.
The Raven Review The Raven Review publishes three times a year, in March, April and May. Send address changes and all correspondence to The Raven Review, 220 Grove Ave., Prescott, AZ 86301. The Raven Review is distributed free to members of the area community. (928) 920-2262; theravenreview@gmail.com. Editor: Simone Crowe Assistant Editor: Daniel Roca Copy Editor: Libby Sherwood Public Relations: Rebecca Antsis Design Team Leaders: Morgan Rosenberger and Erika DeLeo Staff Writers and Columnists: Rebecca Antsis, Åsa Björklund, Simone Crowe, Erika DeLeo, Amber Faigin, Maria Johnson, Daniel Roca, Morgan Rosenberger and Libby Sherwood Newspaper journalism practicum instructor / Raven advisor: Abby Durden All rights to articles published here are reserved. Write for permission to reprint any articles or illustrations. Submissions of manuscripts, photographs or illustrations are welcome at the address above. Articles and letters may be published by The Raven Review. The opinions expressed here do not necessarily represent those of Prescott College, its faculty, staff or alumni. The Raven Review is not an official publication of Prescott College and is not subject to editorial control by the college.
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relationship. To apply for a card, you must also submit a $150 application fee. Q: What sort of qualifying medical conditions does the law cover in Arizona? A: Right now, prescriptions are available to patients with cancer, glaucoma, HIV, AIDS, Hepatitis C, ALS, Crohn’s disease, agitation of Alzheimer’s or a ‘chronic or debilitating disease or medical condition.’ In January 2012, ADHS will begin accepting petitions for additional medical conditions to be covered under the law, and then will continue to accept petitions every following January and July. Q: If I have a prescription, do I risk losing my apartment or job? A: The Act prohibits certain discriminatory practices. You cannot be denied a lease at an apartment or enrollment in a school unless it could cause the facility to lose federal benefits. An employer cannot refuse to hire, fire or put certain restrictions on you, unless it would cause them to lose federal benefits. Lastly, the law protects patients who have tested positive on a drug test from being fired, unless
they were actively under the influence at work. Q: If people can’t be fired for consuming marijuana, how do I know my electrician or doctor isn’t high? A: It will still be illegal for a professional to be under the influence on the job, and it will still be illegal for somebody to be under the influence in a situation where it could be considered negligent or reckless. Q: I’m worried about it being around my kids. How are they protected? A: Under the new act, marijuana is not allowed on school buses, on the grounds of a preschool, primary school or high school; it is also prohibited on the property of a correctional facility. The sale of marijuana to minors will remain illegal. For those who need it, the new medical marijuana law is a welcome benefit. The new act is written in such a way that most of the current laws will not change. The act does not legalize marijuana as a recreational drug but protects patients taking their medication only.
Prescott College’s new BFA Program
For the first time in its history, Prescott College offers a new type of Bachelor’s degree: the Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA). Now undergraduates have a choice: between the Bachelor of Arts degree (BA), which has always been available, and the new BFA. For those students who choose to pursue the new offering, they may specialize in one of three tracks: Creative Writing, Visual Arts, or Interdisciplinary Arts & Letters. When asked why the College decided to inaugurate the BFA degree, K.L. (Kenny) Cook, faculty member in Writing and Literature, explained, “In our research, we discovered, because of the way we do competence-based education
at Prescott College, that most of our students pursuing the normal 16-course competence were already doing BFA-level work. In fact, we discovered that our normal competence requirements far exceeded the requirements of almost any other BFA in the country, and our practicum courses and ambitious senior projects in the arts were not only meeting or far exceeding the standards of other undergraduate programs but also of many MFA programs. We have launched the BFA in order to give students the degree they have earned.” If interested in learning more about Prescott College’s BFA opportunities, please contact Cook at kcook@prescott.edu.
Dear Reader, Please send your thoughts on life, issues in the community or issues with us, to be published in the next paper. Send letters to simone.crowe@gmail. com. All submissions are subject to editing. Thank you, Simone Crowe, Editor
The Raven Review April 2011
-News-
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Prescott changes attitude towards the homeless population By Åsa Björklund Staff Writer
In the wake of Spring 2010’s controversial homeless raids and arrests, the city of Prescott launched a project to address vagrancy in the community. In collaboration with shelters and downtown businesses, city officials are working to inform homeless people about services while helping to increase respect for the population throughout the town. Currently, the mayor’s office is launching a new project: to create a daily storage facility for the homeless to use. “A lot of people camp out in the surrounding National Forest, spend the night there, then come into town to have breakfast, carrying all their things in a backpack,” said Joseph Brehm, Management Analyst at the City of Prescott. “Everything they own is literally on their backs and it is difficult to find work.” The city is asking shelters to host such storage. Local AmeriCorps members helping to organize the project are confident that there will be plenty of volunteers to build the facility because many homeless people are trained craftsmen. “People say ‘let us build a shelter.’ They want to earn it, have the pride,” said Kent Kramer, an AmeriCorps member helping with the project. “This [storage facility] is a small-scale dry-run of that idea.” This project is the most recent development following a long process of City Council and Prescott citizens working together to address issues concerning the homeless population. Due to pressure from local businesses, the animosity towards homeless people took a sharp turn in April 2010, when the Prescott
Uranium mining Cont. from p.1 Secretary of the Interior for this influential decision, BLM conducted a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS), which outlines potential immediate and long-term impacts of mining on areas such as: surface and groundwater, cultural and tribal concerns, air quality, wildlife, vegetation and public health. They have also assessed the consequences of current uranium mining in the Grand Canyon watershed. The DEIS includes impacts resulting from the one million acre withdrawal, as well as smaller proposals for the area. If the federal government blocks the withdrawal, sacred lands would be permanently scarred, including the Havasupai’s Holy Red Butte. Indigenous people such as the Havasupai, Hualapai, Navajo and Hopi could be exposed to radiation -- if not through their water, then through the air they breathe. Uranium trucks covered only in tarps would pass through indigenous lands carrying ore up to twelve times a day, four days a week. Toxic ore-dust would be scattered into the air, or if there was ever an accident, there could be a catastrophic spill of uranium. Certain species of fish, animals and plants would be threatened or driven to extinction. Any of the above could also jeopardize the economic livelihood of surrounding communities. As the impacts of existing abandoned mines prove, the health of the Grand Canyon watershed and the Colorado River could be at stake. Upwards of 27 million people consume the water from the Colorado River for drinking and agricultural purposes. A volunteer from the Sierra Club, Cynthia Pardo, believes that there needs to be more attention given to the human aspect in the EIS. “We see our energy crisis as being an economic issue, when it’s a cultural issue, especially when it comes to tribal communities. People have survived and lived off this land, far longer than we have, before we started laying claims and saying what is ours,” commented Pardo. Denison Mines, a Canadian company with offices based in Canada, the U.S., Zambia and Mongolia, is only one among many orchestrating plans for uranium
Police Department and the Sheriff’s office arrested about 40 homeless people, recalled Gerry Garvey, director of the Coalition for Compassion and Justice (CCJ). “They not only swept the downtown area but they went into the woods and arrested people and confiscated all their belongings, which was the real stress,” said Garvey. Reaction from the community was immediate. Around 100 people flooded the council chambers, voicing concerns and debating solutions. The downtown business community complained about people sleeping in doorways, urinating on the sidewalk and sleeping on benches, recalled Garvey. The mayor called a meeting of all the human services that help the homeless. Meanwhile, CCJ brainstormed with staff and the homeless people they serve and came up with a list of ideas on how to help the city. According to Garvey, members of the homeless community said to the mayor, “‘We may be homeless, we may be living in poverty, but we’re a community. If you come to us and ask for help, because people are inappropriate downtown, we can help with that.’” Homeless people understood the sources of the disturbances better than anybody, said Garvey. In an effort to find a realistic solution, they requested information about safe places and off-limit private properties. The mayor responded by creating a “solutions committee.” Since then, the city, the business community and homeless advocacy groups have met every month to solve problems and coordinate their efforts. To help the city, AmeriCorps offered two part-time volunteers to assist the mayor with this process, according to Brehm. The
volunteers spoke with businesses, shelters and the homeless about their problems and needs. Based on these meetings, they created a pamphlet that informed people about free meals, medical assistance, employment and local laws. They encouraged business owners to pass along the information and emphasized that the majority of homeless do not cause any nuisance. A handful of people downtown were disruptive, however, and even the homeless at the CCJ were afraid of going down there, Garvey remembered. “Most of them weren’t homeless, they were just mean drunks that hung around downtown,” said Garvey.
The business community said that the “homeless problem” has improved drastically, according to a recent survey. Garvey believes it has a lot to do with perceptions; homeless people have been given a human face and have been separated from the troublemakers. The economic downturn has changed the face of people who need assistance. Today, CCJ provides help to well-dressed individuals with professions you would not normally expect to see at a shelter, such as teachers and social workers, explained Garvey. “Many people sold or foreclosed their homes. They’re just regular folks and they’re losing $150,000 to $200,000,” said Bryan, chef at CCJ. “There are people standing next to you at Albertson’s spending their last money, but it’s Friday
and their stomachs are rumbling and the kids are hungry.” Garvey retold an incident that occurred on one of the recent snowy days -- a business owner was concerned about two homeless men whom he had often seen outside his shop. He asked them where they would spend the night. They replied that they did not know. According to Garvey, he said, “‘I have a storage room in the back so I’m going to leave it unlocked and I want you to use it.’” People are very grateful for their help and often ask what they can do in return, explained Garvey. “Sixty percent of people ... get services five to six times and then they find work or get the help they need and we don’t see them anymore. Twenty percent of them we do see again because they come back as volunteers,” said Garvey. The solutions committee meetings have created a network between the local organizations serving the homeless, according to Kramer, who stayed after the project’s first phase ended. His position is now partially funded by the city of Prescott. Kramer said that the service providers are now familiar with certain perpetrators and can also redirect homeless people to appropriate areas if needed. Besides sharing information, they decide together how to approach a problem and learn from each other’s experiences. The mayor’s office has funds for the rest of the year to continue working with the homeless and will reapply before the City council in 2012. Garvey at CCJ thinks this pioneer project has been extremely successful. “We’ve had no arrests since then. It’s been awesome.”
mines. Klee Benally, an activist from Indigenous Media Action and Sacred Lands, and guitarist from the acclaimed “Alter-Native” punk-rock band, Blackfire, wants people to recognize that if the withdrawal does not pass, there will be a slew of mining companies hoping to capitalize on the uranium. “It’s important to understand that this is just the tip of the iceberg. Right now there are only a handful of uranium mines that threaten to be opened, but there are thousands of permits that have been applied for opening uranium mines around the Grand Canyon area,” commented Benally. Taylor MacKinnon, public lands campaigns director from the Center for Biological Diversity, sees this as an exemplary opportunity to reform the 1872 mining law. “If there’s any case, this is it. The issues are stark, the lines are bright.”
of whom live in the Grand Canyon, and have been fighting uranium mining for more than 25 years, organized the Bringing People Together, Stop Uranium Mining awareness concert on March 26 at the Orpheum Theater in Flagstaff. A main organizer and a Havasupai Tribal Council member, Carletta Tilousi, commented on the purpose of the event. “This concert was to bring people together; to educate the community of Flagstaff, and also neighboring tribes. There will be more support when people understand why the Havasupai have been fighting for so many years.” Whether coincidence or in response to the awareness concert, immediate signs of support went into place. The day after the event, Flagstaff’s city council passed a resolution endorsing the million-acre withdrawal to protect the Grand Canyon from mining. Five days later, BLM extended a deadline for public comment on the DEIS for 30 days, until May 4. According to BLM, public commentary will be reviewed before completing the final EIS. In order for this to happen, people need to understand the issue, the DEIS and follow the guidelines for commenting; a challenging process that may be inaccessible for many people. As Benally pointed out, “It’s really important to connect the issues back to the community and to make sure people are empowered and aware of ways they can take action as well. Because this is a community issue, it’s a community threat.” Voicing his incredulity with the mining proposals and the government’s consideration, Benally stated, “There are thousands of uranium mines that are around the Navajo Nation that have been abandoned; nothing has been cleaned up. So why are the federal government and these mining corporations considering opening new mines when they haven’t even cleaned up these other ones?” Pardo hopes the federal government realizes that the negative effects of uranium mining outweigh the positive. “We turned over our natural resources and our energy to corporations and to agencies. Uranium mining is far too expensive. The costs in terms of water, land, air pollution, plant life, animal life and human life are way too high. These costs are not worth it,” she commented. Benally stated, “I hope that people wake
up and learn from tragedies like what happened in Japan, and of course we learn from Chernobyl and Three Mile Island. I hope people wise up and realize that we have no future in nuclear power. We have no future in being connected to uranium, from the weapons, to the waste, to the mining. It’s unhealthy for our communities and it’s totally unsustainable.” Evan Hawbaker, of Flagstaff’s Taala Hooghan Infoshop, sees uranium mining as yet another facet of government exploitation, continuing the legacy of environmental injustice. Hawbaker commented, “Uranium intersects on all sorts of different issues -- it intersects as a colonial force, an imperial force, an issue of oppression … this issue just really echoes issues that affect everybody.” Benally emphasized that mining at the Grand Canyon is not just an indigenous peoples or environmental issue. “Everybody has a stake in this. The issue is not going to be won by the environmental groups alone or by the non-profits; it’s going to be won by the communities. ... We need a healthy future and we need to come together and establish what that means in a meaningful way with our communities in revelation with each other and Mother Earth.” Tilousi agreed, saying more people need to know about the potential hazards of uranium mining. “This does not just have an effect on the Havasupai -- this should matter to all Arizonans. We need to say no to uranium.” In the wake of Japan’s nuclear disaster, the threat of uranium mining in the Grand Canyon has taken on a new urgency, calling attention to the underlying problems of nuclear power and the U.S.’s energy consumption. Benally asks, “Why are we trying to sustain unsustainable lifestyles? [There needs to be a] critical lifestyle shift, and that comes down to us -- individuals stepping up and owning our responsibilities and our insatiable appetites. I think that if people wake up and do that, we won’t need this much energy.” To help stop uranium mining in the Grand Canyon, comment on the DEIS at http://www.blm.gov/az/st/en/prog/mining/ timeout/deis.html. For a list of other ways to become involved, visit http://www. stopuraniummining.org.
“This does not just have an effect on the Havasupai -- this should matter to all Arizonans. We need to say no to uranium.” Andy Bessler, from the Sierra Club, reflected on how the history of uranium mining in the Southwest reveals probable effects for the future. In the Navajo nation alone, uranium mining has hurt more than 22 communities. He explained, “Their wells are contaminated. They can’t get to their water. This contamination doesn’t go away. That’s what’s really dangerous about this. It’s really a water issue.” The recognition of this danger is growing, as Bessler pointed out. “Think about how many people are down-stream of these wells; an entire watershed. Even Las Vegas [officials] have come out and supported us.” Given the long history of uranium mining in the Grand Canyon and increasing federal support of nuclear energy mines around the country, many locals believe that there is a high chance of further uranium mining. Yet the surrounding community stands in strong opposition to the mining, and has no plans of conceding. Members of the Havasupai tribe, many
“We may be homeless, we may be living in poverty, but we’re a community.”
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-Features-
The Raven Review April 2011
Jumpers take to the sky at Eloy’s Skydive Arizona
Tandem skydive over Eloy. Photo courtesy of Get Hypoxic.
By Libby Sherwood Staff Writer As you leave the plane and transition into freefall over Skydive Arizona and the nearby town of Eloy, body suspended in mid-flight like a leaf making its way toward the earth, the tensions and anxieties that plague your mind instantly float away. Give in to the overcoming urge to relax. The need to puke -- unlikely. The desire to smile -inevitable. As your body fades into the sky, the constant pressure of wind cradles you as you maneuver through the air. Lock eyes with a partner, and you have created a bond that signifies a
common joy and the purity of the present moment. Skydive Arizona’s isolated desert facility can be found at the end of a long, weathered road half-way between Phoenix and Tucson. When you drive into their facility, you will notice a developed trailer park, an old painted school bus and a row of road barriers covered with painted, chipped advertisements. Skydive Arizona, the world’s largest dropzone, is home to many professional skydivers. In addition to the year-round blue-sky weather for which the dropzone at Eloy is known, jumpers also take advantage of their indoor skydiving facility, a gigantic cylindrical wind tunnel
Religious influence on government expands By Åsa Björklund Staff Writer
The increasing economic influence religious groups have on American politics threatens to further jeopardize the health, rights and education of citizens, according to the Secular Coalition of America (SCA). Politicians dependent on campaign money from churches steadily pass religious-based laws, affecting citizens nation-wide on a multitude of levels, says Sean Faircloth, director of SCA. The size and power of religious lobby groups have increased, believes Serah Blain, co-founder of the Secular Student Alliance at Prescott College. She mentioned the Center for Arizona Policy (CAP) and James Dobson’s Focus on the Family as examples of large organizations with millions of dollars to spend on lobbying, thus having significant influence over legislators in Arizona. Blain explained, “CAP is the religious lobby organization that sponsored the suite of state legislation that will [practically] make abortion illegal in Arizona. CAP also introduced a bill that will make it more difficult to get a divorce in our state and a bill to discriminate against both single and LGBT [Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender] parents in the adoption process. CAP has more than a dozen bills on their agenda this year and none of these bills have any secular, reason-based justification. They are all founded on evangelical Christian morality.” State legislation that allows parents the right to deny their children medical care based on religious grounds has severely
compromised children’s health and even resulted in some deaths, according to Faircloth. In Tennessee, 15-year-old Jessica Craig died in agony because her mother did not support modern medicine on religious grounds. The state legislature gave her the right to deny her daughter treatment for a tumor. Religiously-based exemptions have also caused child neglect. In Alabama, a religious daycare center left and forgot a two-yearold girl, Amillo White, in a van on a hot summer day. Two hours later, she died of heatstroke. Similar incidents have been reported. Faircloth explained that “[Of] all the health and safety regulations that apply to childcare [centers] in the state of Alabama, the religious childcare [centers] are exempt.” According to Faircloth, the infant mortality rate proved to be 270 percent higher in faith assembly congregations. He calls for people to speak up against this “religious fanaticism authorized by state law,” and questions where the pro-life supporters were when Jessica Craig was denied treatment for her tumor. “But also, where were we in this room? Why aren’t we protesting, why aren’t we speaking up?” asked Faircloth. “In 1970, there were 10 churches in the United States with more than 2,000 members each. Now there are over a thousand such churches,” said Faircloth. “But it’s not just the size of the churches, it’s also the nature of what they are doing.” Cont. on p. 14
that allows new and experienced jumpers to train for the real thing. The variety of skydiving disciplines allows everyone in the sport to find their niche -- from freeflying, in which you learn to fly in head-down and feet-first positions at speeds reaching 160 mph -- to wingsuiting, in which you fly a custom-made squirrelsuit across the sky at a speed around 110 mph. You can also jump out of one of their Skyvan aircrafts, a military-style plane that can only be found at larger drop-zones due to their slight compromise of fuel economy. Skydive Arizona trains several foreign militaries and flies these planes on a regular basis. In the Skyvan, you can hop out of the door at the back of the aircraft. If you feel adventurous, you can lie on your stomach and carefully reach underneath the plane to find a bar. Grab hold of this bar, front-flip out of the plane and ride under the belly of the aircraft. Do not even try to suppress a grin. Experienced jumpers sometimes seek more excitement. They have been known to take large household objects with them out of the back of the Skyvan -- picture
bathtubs, couches, poker tables. One jumper could not decide what to do with the old Toyota rusting in his backyard, so he drove it out the back of a C130 and flew with the vehicle before pulling his chute and watching the car explode into bits on the desert floor. After a day of jumping, you can sit by the small outdoor pool, grab a beer at the bar or browse the shop which carries a variety of jumping paraphernalia, including technical equipment, t-shirts, and even ladies’ underwear with embossed team logos. Although skydivers have been known to quit their jobs and move into trailers to fulfill their air-borne obsessions, skydiving can serve as a great therapy once you learn to trust the equipment and get past the initial oddity of exiting a plane in motion. Experiencing the feeling of drifting towards the earth at 120 mph will force you to look at life through a fresh lens. As you fall – or more accurately – float, the distant runway grows larger and closer, and you notice you are nearly level with the mountain tops on the horizon. You pull your chute to culminate the experience with a tranquil canopy ride; swing your feet and delicately reach for the earth.
What to bring: A big smile, costumes, extra cash, a hair brush, sunglasses, your bucket list, a change of underwear, a drinking partner! What to leave on the ground (or at home): High heels, cheese, your dog Fido, portable electronic devices, your mother! • • • • • • • • • • • •
Cost for a weekend tandem jump: $199 Student-rate for a tandem jump: $179 Cost for one jump, experienced jumper: $23 Number of tandem skydives per day on weekends: 60-100 jumps Jumping days per year: 340 Vertical velocity in a head-down position: 160mph Vertical velocity belly-toearth: 120mph Horizontal velocity in a wingsuit: 110 mph Super Otter Aircrafts: 4 Skyvan Aircrafts: 4 Pilatus Porter Aircrafts: 1 DC-3 Aircrafts: 1
For more information, visit www.skydiveaz.com.
Scibona discusses process of writing first novel By Morgan Rosenberger Staff Writer On March 1, 2011, Salvatore Scibona gave a reading of one of his recently-published short stories at an event hosted by the Southwest Writers Series. Afterwards, he answered questions from the audience, and spoke about his highlyacclaimed first novel, “The End.” On his website, Scibona describes his characters as taking on a life of their own. He did not create them -- he depicted them. “Over time I came to think of them as real people, absolutely distinct from myself, whose free choices and characteristic obsessions, the unchosen dictates of personality and soul, would determine everything. In this sense, I do not consider myself the author of the book,” writes Scibona. In “The End,” the story of a single day -- August 15, 1953 -paints the lives of six individuals gathered at an Italian immigrant street carnival, each person a unique part of a tragic event that twists their lives together. Sarah Shun-Lien Bynum, a novelist and professor at the University of California, San Diego, described the novel as, “A masterful novel set amid racial upheaval in 1950s America, during the flight of secondgeneration immigrants from their once-necessary ghettos. Full of wisdom, consequence and grace, Salvatore Scibona’s radiant debut brims with the promise of a remarkable literary career, of which ‘The End’ is only the beginning.” Scibona’s “The End” was a finalist for the 2008 National
Salvatore Scibona. Photo by Carlos Ferguson.
Book Award, and winner of the Young Lions Fiction Award from the New York Public Library. He has also won the Norman Mailer Cape Cod Award for Exceptional Writing, the Whiting Writers’ Award and a Guggenheim Fellowship. The New Yorker named him one of its “20 Under 40” writers to watch. I spoke to Scibona about his writing career and the process of getting his book published. THE RAVEN REVIEW: How long have you been writing? Salvatore Scibona: I started in, oh, the fifth grade? How did you decide writing was what you wanted to do with your life? I had a lot of television in my house when I was growing up. I really started reading books in the 10th grade. It’s a transformative kind of experience. I mean, I played around with writing from the fifth grade onward. I wasn’t really committed to it. I didn’t really know why I was doing it, and I didn’t read very much, [but] when I started to read ... I
wanted to be a reader more than I wanted to be a writer. And then the writing grew from that experience, the deep experience of reading. This is a tough question, but who would you pick as your favorite author? Oh, that’s not hard! I mean, maybe not my number-one favorite, but I could give you a little list: Virginia Woolf, Don DeLillo, Homer, Pascal, Faulkner, Saul Bellow, George Eliot, Annie Dillard; and I like the Icelandic writer Halldor Laxness. How would you describe your experience getting your first book published? It was so long. It took over 10 years to write. Then I went through a whole lot of revision with my editor and then with other people at Graywolf Press and my wonderful copy editor, whom I’ve never met. When I was going over her marks, and they [were] so luminous and so exacting, I just loved it. I loved every minute of that. Then it came out to total silence for a little while. Then the big change for that book was the National Book Award nomination. It brought a whole lot more attention to the book than it would have gotten otherwise. And since then, we sold the paperback and the audio rights and a lot of translations. It’s so hit or miss. One gets lucky just to have readers that can find a book and let other people know about it. How would you describe your writing to someone who has never read any of your works? I honestly think I’m totally unqualified to say. I would leave that to anyone else.
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FDA cracks down on raw milk farms By Libby Sherwood Staff Writer After a series of recent nationwide raids, Arizona familyrun dairy farms fear their businesses and livelihoods are in jeopardy. Government agencies have been targeting raw milk farms with a court order “to destroy.” Many local Arizona farmers have halted all sales of their raw dairy products, while others refuse to discuss their business protocol with outsiders -- including journalists -- in order to protect their livestock and themselves. Only Grade A pasteurized or certified pasteurized milk is allowed to be sold commercially in Arizona. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires this process for safety reasons, claiming, “Pasteurization kills harmful bacteria -- including salmonella, E. coli, and listeria -that can contaminate milk before it gets to your table.” Essentially, they advocate that risks of contamination are too great to distribute to the public. In the case of large-scale agricultural facilities, which have thousands of cows living in tight, unsanitary quarters, they are probably right.
But what does that mean for those of us who still want to support local business and reap personal health benefits such as unique vitamin complexes present in raw dairy? Nance Sparks, a local raw dairy farmer, believes that the fears and regulations surrounding raw milk farming result from a small handful of incidents, which misrepresent the entire industry. “[The FDA is] doing so much in the name of bad practice,” she said. “Instead of saying you did something bad, I’m going to punish you, they say, you did something bad, I’m going to punish everyone.” Farmers argue that the sale of raw milk should remain protected because of the incredible health benefits that it offers. “Raw milk is a whole food. You could literally live off of milk products. You’d get bored of the taste, but it’s possible,” said Sparks. Sparks began homesteading in Chino Valley in 2003. Today, she still rises at 4 a.m. to milk and feed the animals before making the hour commute into Prescott for her full-time job. As she sipped a homemade strawberry yogurt drink, displaying the confidence she has
in her product, Sparks described the difference in the quality of raw milk. “There’s an acceptable level of pus and blood allowed in the milk at the grocery stores. With most family farmers there’s no acceptable level of pus or blood. None. If my cows are sick, they’re treated. And I know when they’re sick because I hand-milk. I milk Sally into one pail. I milk Cookie into another pail. I only use stainless steel. I only use glass to store it in. ... My dishwasher is always running on ‘sterilize mode.’” These methods are only part of the long list of procedures Sparks uses to milk her cows in a sterile environment.
“So many people fighting all these court battles will lose their farms. This is how they make their living.” “When you introduce a machine, you depersonalize it. When you have food going out to millions of people, it’s depersonalized. If my family’s eating this food, you know damn well it’s good.” Before the raw milk crackdown, Sparks sold her milk and produce
Visiting artist shares keys to life By Erika DeLeo Staff Writer
Equal parts dancer, teacher and storyteller, Einstein lookalike Len Barron celebrates old age and average intelligence. As part of the Southwest Writers Series hosted by Prescott College, Barron held performances and workshops between March 21-23 at the Granite Performing Arts Center (GPAC) on South Granite Street in Prescott, and at the Crossroads Center at Prescott College. Six women sat in a circle on the bare floor of the dimlylit GPAC, admiring Barron as he moved with a lightness and grace that seemed to defy physics and his age. Barron, in his late seventies, thinks getting older is great. “I don’t know a single person over age 65 who would want to be 25 again,” said Barron. It is difficult to be young and not know where you are going in life, he recognized. In his workshop, “Soft Turns and Surprises,” participants danced to Guy Clark’s “Somedays the Song Writes You,” in any fashion they wanted, as long as the movements were “small.”
Barron went first: Each gliding movement wove into the next as he used his whole body at once. Moving his arms, legs and torso together, he never strayed more than a couple of feet in any direction. An apartment he once lived in, he said, was so small as to necessitate this kind of compact dancing, so he grew to enjoy it. “Dance is my favorite medium … I like slow,” Barron said to the onlookers. “I like soft, and we live in a world that is very fast,” he nearly whispered. The next day, he charmed an audience with “Einstein and Niels Bohr: A Fairy Tale,” as he told anecdotes from the lives of these famous physicists. Through these stories, Barron shed light on philosophical themes such as intelligence, fairness, beauty and playfulness. “I’ve been blessed with average intelligence,” he said cheerfully. Barron began with a song by Frank Sinatra. With his gentle demeanor and soft voice, he sang a cappella: “You’ll find that it’s hard to be narrow of mind, if you’re young at heart…” thus setting
Len Barron gives a presentation at the Crossroads Center. Photos by Erika DeLeo.
the stage for his speech on how imagination is more important than knowledge. Barron recounted Einstein’s famous words: “When I think of my method of thought, the gift of fantasy has meant more to me than my capacity to absorb knowledge.” “Knowledge can only take you so far,” Barron explained, bushy eyebrows raised in sincerity. “To get beyond that, you can’t use a logical thought process. It takes a leap of faith, a great sense of playfulness and wonder.” Barron quoted Einstein’s criticism of modern education, and how it depletes students’ capacity for fairness and playfulness: “Competitive mentality prevails in schools and destroys feelings of human fraternity and cooperation.” Barron advised the rapt audience: “Find anybody whose life is rooted in fairness, beauty and playfulness. Two things are guaranteed: One, they lead a fertile life, and two, they are dearly loved.” Enlightenment happens early on, Barron concluded. “By three years old, [children] have learned the ways of the world, and they love to dance!”
through Community Supported Agriculture, requiring her to collect 16 to 20 gallons per day. Since then, her daily yield has dropped to six or seven gallons per day, most of which she has to discard. “I make cheese when I can, but I can’t afford to farm… I have a full-time job…. Even in the very best-case scenario of selling what I make, I couldn’t feed the cows with the money,” said Sparks, who spends $600 to $800 per month in feed alone. Sparks feels that the process to license her cows would be impossible. “The facility I would have to build would be hundreds of thousands of dollars because I would have to create a Grade A dairy. And then I would have to pasteurize!” Machine-driven technologies dominate the dairy industry in order to keep pace with demand and regulations. Cost-cutting strategies directly affect the living conditions of the livestock and the milk they produce. Cows in these conditions live a fraction of their standard lifespan. Feed consists of soy-based grains which deplete cows and their milk of essential nutrients. The process of pasteurization leaves milk stripped of natural probiotic factors. Sparks moved to Chino Valley to farm after doctors diagnosed her with a thyroid condition and polysistic ovarian syndrome. She suspected that her diet was the contributor to these problems, and conducted a number of personal experiments to determine her reaction to various foods. “The additives in the beef and pork make me sick. I can’t eat chicken from the grocery store. I can’t drink milk from the grocery store. My thyroid shut
Courtesy photo from FDA.
down because of all the processed foods,” said Sparks, who is now completely off any medications. Sparks and other farmers stand by the health benefits of raw milk, despite the increasing restrictions imposed upon their businesses. Arizona state law prohibits the sale of raw dairy products unless they are dyed blue and labeled as pet food. Due to the high butterfat content of the milk, the blue dye turns the milk an unappealing hue, dissuading consumers from purchasing the milk. If farmers do not comply, the Department of Agriculture can seize all milk products on a farm and issue a court order to prevent future sales of any dairy products. “So many people fighting all these court battles will lose their farms. This is how they make their living. They don’t have other jobs like I do,” said Sparks. Additional proponents of the ban include lobbyists for big agriculture, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the FDA. Although hesitant to sell their raw milk products, many farmers are not willing to give up producing fresh, raw milk. “You choose this life out of a passion for real food,” said Sparks.
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The Raven Review April 2011
Prescott’s buried secrets revealed By Åsa Björklund Staff Writer
Behind Prescott’s macho past of gold, cattle and whiskey, lie some hidden gems. Local historian Elisabeth Ruffner talked to The Raven Review about the women who took history into their own hands. Ruffner also offered a convincing perspective on the rumors of Prescott’s tunnels. At the age of 91, Ruffner herself is a good example of an extraordinary woman. As she radiates energy, her passion fuels her work in historic preservation, open space conservation and supporting art and culture. In addition to being active in several foundations and committees, Ruffner is the chairwoman of the Capital Campaign preparing the purchase of the Elks Building, home of the opera house. The Carnegie Public Library Many people associate Western history with rough miners and gun-crazy cowboys. At the end of the 19th century, back in the heyday of horse racing, gambling and drinking, Julia Goldwater argued that there were no “innocent pleasures” for all the single men in town. This history often conceals the dedicated movement for education and arts in Prescott. Ruffner expressed the importance of remembering that the initial Prescott settlers brought books and musical instruments to the community. They developed the arts,
education and culture that became a staple of Prescott’s heritage. Local women of the Monday Literary Society, led by Goldwater, opened a free public library with funds granted from Andrew Carnegie, among others. Continuing the tradition, Ruffner was recruited for the library board soon after she arrived in Prescott in 1940. For women then, libraries were a means to education and a gateway to the outside world. Ruffner remains adamant about the value of information and education. Last year, the Prescott City Council considered charging citizens to use the Public Library in order to balance the budget. Ruffner waved dismissively at the proposal.
There was also an illegal liquor store carved out some 40 feet deep into the solid rock. “It cannot happen. The women of this place -- the women of this country -- will not let it happen,” she said. Women in politics Frances Willard Munds, another local woman who changed society, led Arizona’s suffrage movement. Willard recognized that many of these women isolated themselves in their cause by also supporting the prohibition of alcohol. As
this often stirred men’s anger, she understood that she needed to find other allies. As a result, she teamed up with Mormon women, stressing “the future of our children.” Although the Mormon women had no interest in voting themselves, they agreed to help their sisters and convinced their husbands to support women’s suffrage. Willard’s scheme succeeded. She became a member of the Arizona Senate more than five years before American women were granted the right to vote. The Prescott tunnels Besides strong women, Prescott’s history offers other surprises. Rumor has it that there are secret tunnels under the square. Some people say that they were built for smuggling illegal alcohol during the prohibition, to access the brothels on Whiskey Row or even so the judge could sneak over from the courthouse to have a drink at the bar. To these stories, Ruffner has one word to say: “rumors.” She explained that after Prescott burned down in 1900, the town, rebuilt in brickwork, used roman-style arches to support the structures. The successive arches created an illusion of tunnels. Later, some of them were buried in the dirt to facilitate the development of the new streetcar line. The dirt was spread along the West Gurley and Montezuma Streets, burying basements of several buildings around the Courthouse Plaza, according to Ruffner. “Around the hotel [St.
Michael] the street was raised a whole story,” said Ruffner. “That’s where the myth of the tunnels started.” There was also an illegal liquor store carved out some 40 feet deep into the solid rock, on South Montezuma Street where Moore’s Laundry is now located. Some people claimed it was actually a tunnel, but this turned out to be false.
P erson al p rof ile of Elisab et h R u f f n er:
Continuing preservation today Few people dedicate their lives to preserve and improve their hometown like Ruffner has done. It has not always been easy. In her work to preserve historic buildings, some property owners were furious, since they opposed involvement by the government. In the 1960s, the mayor, whose wife owned an historic house on the square, fired the entire Preservation Commission. Ruffner refused to step down, as the mayor had no authority to do this. She was right. “The [City] Council said ‘go ahead, do your work,’” said Ruffner with a proud smile. She does not see any immediate threats to the preservation of Prescott today. “It’s a precious town. It’s getting better all the time.”
Specialty: Forming non-profit organizations (13 or 14 in total). Most important building in Prescott: Carnegie library. “That’s the library where I went when I was recruited to go on the library board.” Number of historic buildings that she has preserved in Prescott: More than 700. Some past projects: Ruffner has served as founding president of Yavapai Heritage Foundation, the Open Space Alliance of Central Yavapai County, Friends of Prescott Public Library, Prescott Community Hospital Auxiliary, Friends of Arizona Highways magazine and as an advisor to The National Trust for Historic Preservation. Examples of awards and public recognition received: A citation from the United States Department of the Interior and the Arizona Governor’s Award for historic preservation services, from the American Library Association as Trustee of the Year, honored as an Arizona History Maker and Culture Keeper and The Elisabeth Ruffner Award from the City of Prescott, which is conferred on other Prescottonians for exemplary service in historic preservation of the city. About Prescott College: “You wouldn’t believe the richness that institution has brought to this town. There is just no way to measure it. It’s one of the most precious things that have happened to Prescott.”
for six years, was diagnosed with the disease from birth. “[He is] just the sweetest kid you ever met.” No stranger to the sea, as an avid sailor and surfer for more than 16 years, Dahlmer has experienced the ocean’s healing properties firsthand. “I grew up in the ocean. And that has always been my passion. ... To find out that something that has been so therapeutic for me just has this physical benefit for this disease, for this kid... I knew I just had to do it, I knew I had to get involved in this.” Albeit passionate, Dahlmer has realistic ideals. “You know you’re not going to cure them
in three days but this workshop can help foster a positive lifestyle that will promote physical health and emotional well-being.” Dahlmer and Howland will hold a fundraiser to cover expenses for a workshop and the publication of a resource guide. For inquiries, to make a donation or to find out more about the upcoming fundraiser, please contact zdahlmer@ prescott.edu or whowland@ prescott edu. For more information on Panacea Adventures, please visit www.panaceaadventures. org.
“Around the hotel [St. Michael] the street was raised a whole story, that’s where the myth of the tunnels started.”
Health benefits of salt water By Rebecca Antsis Staff Writer Jane Austen raved about it. So did Hippocrates. In 2700 B.C., the Chinese wrote about it. The English, Japanese, Romans and Hungarians even built towns around it. Now, Prescottonians Zachary Dahlmer and West Howland want to submerge entire families in it. The ancient remedy of saltwater has recently surfaced to improve the health of those afflicted with Cystic Fibrosis. Although Cystic Fibrosis (CF) harms the entire body, the lungs are particularly affected. Due to a genetic mutation, build-up of mucus in the respiratory system causes lung infections so severe that, in the words of Dahlmer, “By the time they are my age [27], they can’t breathe anymore.” In 2006, a group of Australian doctors treating CF discovered that a certain population of patients inexplicably experienced decreased severity in their symptoms. The doctors identified among those patients a common activity: surfing. For their senior project at Prescott College, Dahlmer and Howland plan to work in conjunction with Panacea Adventures, a North Carolina-
based adventure school to create a three-day surfing and sea kayaking workshop designed to introduce teens with CF and their families to the benefits of natural salt water therapies. According to Howland, “By breathing salt-infused air it allows the body to re-balance ...and breakdown mucus buildup in the lungs by coughing it out.” After time out on sea, participants will literally breathe easier.
“I grew up in the ocean. And that has always been my passion. ... To find out that it has this physical benefit for this disease, for this kid ... I knew I just had to do it, I knew I had to get involved in this.” Besides being effective and accessible, salt water therapies can also be free. Dunk into any briny body of water and one can reap the benefits. For those afflicted with CF, this relieves the double burden of the disease and the expensive antibiotics. Since the release of the study
Photo by West Howland.
in 2006, organizations have been established around the world to provide salt waterbased therapies, such as surfing. Despite their success, Howland characterizes those programs “as more promotional than educational.” Dahlmer added, “They’re doing a lot, raising a ton of money and stuff... They’re getting the kids in the water. But what we’re trying to do is to take that idea and extend it into something more educational, sustainable.” For Dahlmer, the urge to help those with CF is not merely a case of altruism. A nine-yearold boy whom he has known
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Senior citizens rediscover their creative voices By Erika DeLeo Staff Writer
In a small room adorned with watercolor and oil paintings, five women gathered to recount stories from their pasts. This spring, two college students, Colleen Fitzgerald and Ty Kipling, facilitate a series of writing workshops with residents of the senior living facility, Good Samaritan. The two are students and teachers at once. They are enrolled in “Writers in the Community,” a college course that visits eight local centers and provides writing classes free of charge. As writing facilitators for the elderly, these two may be learning even more from the individuals they are here to instruct. For one, Kipling and Fitzgerald state that they have learned from the women’s openness and willingness to share their stories without hesitation. In the classroom at Good Samaritan, the women trickle in with warm smiles and greetings, and settle on couches and overstuffed chairs around a coffee table. Judging from their expressions, it is apparent that they look forward to this time. Prescott College instructor
Melanie Bishop sits off to the side, pen ready to take notes on the facilitation of her own students, Kipling and Fitzgerald. The two hand out copies of a story by Jamaica Kincaid, entitled “Girl.” Fitzgerald reads aloud the story, a long list of advice written from a mother to her daughter. The piece includes subjects “as mundane as laundry and as serious as how to abort a child,” reflected Bishop. The student facilitators encouraged the women to reflect on advice they have received in their own lives. “Think of someone who was present in your life who has given you lots of advice. Let the dialogue tell all that needs to be told,” Fitzgerald instructed. The participants then spent fifteen minutes reaching through decades of experience to recall past words of wisdom. After writing, they shared: “Mind your manners,” began JoAnn, a resident. “Competition teaches how to handle failure and success,” said another resident, Helen. “You should be thankful you have naturally curly hair,” laughed Bishop. “Write thank-you cards. Say more than thank you. Be specific,” offered Fitzgerald. “Be ready to sacrifice everything for those around
you,” added Kipling. Sharing advice turned to reflection, and then to a story. “I’ve always wondered how and where we do learn things,” said Audrie, a resident. “I have always felt like a rebel,” said JoAnn. “My mother canned chicken during the Depression,” interjected Mary, who read aloud her story about growing up on a farm in northeastern Pennsylvania. In detail, she
described a hen gathering her chicks for the night. All present seemed to cherish the bucolic tale. Bishop was pleased with the work of her students. She said to them, “The women already have developed a great rapport with each other and with you two. There was an air of excitement, like they really do look forward to the writing workshops you’re facilitating.” One woman proved Bishop’s
founded by people interested in art appreciation, education and history. Their purpose is to share the love of art with children and adults in the community. Each year art experiences are brought to over 10,000 children and adults in the Tri-city area. Volunteers participate in several programs that bring art appreciation into the classroom and the larger community, including Masterpiece, Youth Speakers Bureau, Adult Speakers Bureau and Art in the Classroom. Visit www.prescottartdocents.com. Horses with H.E.A.R.T. (Hands-on Equine Assisted Riding Therapy): The goal of
this non-profit is to provide therapeutic horseback-riding to those who have physical, mental and/or emotional disabilities. Volunteers give lessons, care for horses or participate in committee or administration work. Visit http://horseswithheart.org. Volunteer Park Ranger Program: The City of Prescott, Parks and Recreation Department is looking for volunteers who want to help keep local parks and trails clean. Volunteers work alongside park staff, the police department and fire department on park safety and first aid training. Visit http://www.cityofprescott.net/
services/parks. Trauma Intervention Programs of Arizona Inc. (TIP): This organization works with local emergency service providers to offer support to those affected by a crisis. Volunteers provide immediate emotional and practical support to victims, friends and family in the wake of traumatic events. Sue Rutherford, Executive Director of TIP, explained, “Each of us as human beings has a need to make a difference in the world, to contribute to society and to help others. TIP volunteering is a tangible, handson way of making a difference.” Visit www.TIPofAZ.org.
Ty Kipling and Colleen Fitzgerald listen as Mary reads her story. Photo by Erika DeLeo.
Volunteer opportunities in Prescott By Maria Johnson Staff Writer The passion to help others and a bit of time to spare: These are the two ingredients needed to volunteer in the Prescott community. For those who have both, numerous opportunities in many fields await. Yavapai Humane Society (YHS): This local, non-profit organization is looking for those with love for animals to take care of homeless cats and dogs. Volunteers can assist in dog walking, cat socializing, care taking, off-site adoption, special events, foster parenting and office procedures. Visit http://www.yavapaihumane.org. Prescott Area Woman’s Center (PAWS): This shelter provides basic resources for homeless women and women with children. Volunteers help staff by supervising and socializing with shelter guests most nights of the week. Visit http://www. prescottshelter.org. Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary: This non-profit wildlife sanctuary provides conservation and education through the rescuing of native and exotic animals. Volunteers assist with landscaping, help provide animal care and work for special events or in the gift shop. Visit http://www. heritageparkzoo.org. Prescott Art Docents: A local service organization affiliated with Phoenix Art Museum
Volunteers at the Heritage Park Zoological Society get a sneak-peek of the new Wallaby exhibit. Photo by Maria Johnson.
observations accurate. “I’ve never enjoyed anything this much. [Bishop] sent us the cream of the crop,” said Audrie, referring to Kipling and Fitzgerald. Helen added her appreciation, “It’s getting in touch with my life, which I’ve wanted to write about for a long time. What’s great about this class is that we’re getting in touch with ourselves, and that will make us better
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Haiti relief Cont. from p.1
earthquake in two centuries on January 12, 2010, Young saw an opportunity for PROViDE to help. On March 7, he gave a presentation about the devastation the earthquake caused Haiti and his organization’s efforts to assist in recovery, encouraging audience members to volunteer. Beginning this summer, Prescott College will be working with PROViDE to offer internship and independent study opportunities in areas of social entrepreneurship, sustainable small-scale agriculture, reforestation, grassroots innovation and educational initiatives. “This is an opportunity to [make change] from the bottom up,” Young said. At the epicenter of the earthquake, 90 percent of buildings were destroyed. Fifteen miles to the east, Port-au-Prince did not fare much better. Having recently visited the capital, Young described the state of destruction. “There are still mounds of rubble and pancaked buildings all over the city.” However, Young has hope. “By standing together, using our privilege to aid those with less, working in collaboration, sharing information and with hard work, we will prevail. We will overcome and we will build a better Haiti,” he told the audience, spotted with prospective
Graphic by Erika DeLeo.
-Featuresvolunteers. “So, there it is. It’s a leaving train. You’re more than welcome to hop on.” His goal is to empower the Haitian people. He expands on an oft-heard proverb, a philosophy which guides his organization: “You can give someone a fish, and they’ll eat for a day. You can teach them to fish, and they may eat forever, but if you teach them to take care of the pond, their children’s children will be fed too.” PROViDE’s main challenges surround the implementation of this proverb. “These people are trying to come together to feed themselves. They’re not thinking about ecological issues so much. How often do we think of ecological sustainability, but forget it has to be feasible in order for it to catch on, to do anything, to sustain itself ?” Young said community meetings are a vital first step for promoting sustainable relief. “Talk to people about your idea, get feedback, get concerns, get comments and start involving them; start giving them that ownership.” He later said, “You can’t force an innovation on people. You have to design it with them, and get them invested. If they use your ideas, great. If they don’t, so be it.” One of PROViDE’s projects is called Haiti Gardens, a two-acre plot of land in the rural village, Turbe. There, PROViDE holds demonstrations and seminars that teach people
The Raven Review April 2011
Graphic by Erika DeLeo.
to plant and maintain their own gardens. Garbage disposal is a problem, explained Young. There is no official land to dump trash. “The garbage truck would pick up the dumpster, take it outside of the city limits somewhere and dump it on the side of the road.” He wants to set up a project called Artiplast, which has factories in Brazil that take refuse plastic and turn it into industrial rope. Fishing is a large industry in Haiti, so Young wants to connect with fishermen to turn garbage into useful rope for their businesses. During his presentation, he displayed a photo of rubber-tire gardens. He mentioned that one woman uses the sidewalls
of the tires as soles for sandals, making use of an otherwise problematic piece of waste. “In Haiti, when they riot, they love to burn a lot of tires,” said Young with a slight look of queasiness.
“You can’t force an innovation on people. You have to design it with them, and get them invested.” A community center started by the Haitian American Caucus, Ecole Shalom, is Young’s home base. There, almost 100 primary school students gather each morning for classes. At the school, Young helps with anything he can,
including environmental education and agricultural enhancements. PROViDE also runs a project akin to microfinance, but instead of lending money, they lend goats. “We buy the goat, give it to the people, and they take care of it. The first offspring goes back to our organization [and is] then redistributed to other people in the community. Once that offspring is given back, the goat belongs to the people.” A veterinarian visits once a month to ensure the goats are cared for properly. Also in progress, a quarter-acre tree nursery will give the community a meeting area, a gazebo, dry-compost toilets, a tool-shed, composting
bins and a chicken coop. Young showed a picture he took of the Haitian National Palace a week prior to his talk, which still sits in disrepair since the earthquake -- the roof appears ready to slide off the building. The cause of the mass destruction had as much to do with the state of the infrastructure as with the magnitude of the earthquake. “There are no real building codes there. People build as cheaply and as fast as possible.” Images of tent cities abounded in media coverage following the disaster. “There was one mandate in the early days of recovery that the Red Cross, along with a few other companies, said, ‘If you’re not living in a tent, we can’t provide you with rations.’ So what do you think happens? People build a bunch of tents so the Red Cross will bring them a bag of beans. In order to get people out of these tent cities, we need to provide them with education, health care, food, water and sanitation.” Young emphasized that the opportunity to work with PROViDE in Haiti will be more than offering aid in a devastated country. The experience will give volunteers an opportunity to work alongside Haitians, to gain insight into their lives and experiences and to change the circumstances together, from the ground up. “In the media, we always hear about the violence, about the tragedy that is Haiti, but it’s not all that. It’s a beautiful, tropical island with a rich culture and fun-loving, persevering, strong, beautiful people.” For more information, or to volunteer with PROViDE, visit
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A biased look at the biased media By Rebecca Antsis Staff Writer In the latest on a list of big corporate media mergers, AOL made a bid Feb. 7, 2011, to buy the leftist-leaning site, The Huffington Post, for $315 million. Known for its intelligent content, The Huffington Post will soon have to answer to a mighty new boss. TimeWarner, parent to AOL, is the world’s second-largest entertainment conglomerate, as well as the world’s largest media conglomerate, according to Freepress.net. Although AOL will own the Post, the company claims that Arianna Huffington will continue to oversee all editorial content. Huffington assures the public that the buyout will not lessen the publication’s credible, in-depth political content. Yet, AOL Chief Executive Tim Armstrong emphasized that only 15 percent of the Post’s content has to do with politics. Let the spin begin. What happens to our liberty when those entrusted with keeping the elite accountable are owned by them? With a pull of their purse strings, the power-holders possess the tools to shape mass consciousness and sway public opinion, controlling information that appeals to their agendas. Do you ever wonder why all three news channels air exactly the same stories? No one likes to be lied to, and certainly not by those whom we depend on for factual, objective information. If you are not worried, you should be. So why and how did the media devolve from being the prime ensurer of a democracy’s health into a jibber-jabber drone propaganda machine and personal toy piano for the elite? Through corporate mergers and heavy deregulation by the Federal Communications Commission.
As the accompanying timeline suggests, the concentration of media outlets has been in a dizzying state of acceleration since the FCC ruled to deregulate media ownership regulations in 1996. Today, the Big Six that rule the media include: General Electric, Walt Disney, News Corp., Time Warner, Viacom and CBS. The variation and number of sources we get our news from today has been decimated, from the local many to the corporate few.
A Timeline of Media Consolidation
No one likes to be lied to, and certainly not by those whom we depend on for factual, objective information. If you are not worried, you should be. Married to a screen or a gadget, anesthetized to nature, proselytized to believe that the world is a simple tale of right or left, homogenized to be consumers in a culture of false choices and constantly flooded with information, you may be asking, who is to say what is truth and what are lies? Do we goble this up out of fear? Or are we numb to it because it is in front of us all the time? We need media that is unbiased, disinterested, for the people (and not the corporations), so we can make sense of our world. We need to demand this, and the surest way to be heard is through our dollar. In the meantime, read between the lines and do not let any talking head convince you without turning a critical eye. Listen to and watch your local radio and television stations. Read your local newspapers and magazines. Let us not allow our perceptions of the world to turn into McDonald’s Happy Meals.
Arizonans, where does your TV content come from?
Chart and timeline by Rebecca Antsis. Timeline graphic by Daniel Roca.
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-EntertainentDeVotchKa strikes again
Nick Urata, DeVotchKa’s crooner. Photo by Rebecca Antsis.
By Rebecca Antsis Staff Writer TEMPE, Ariz. -- Vengo! Vengo! Gusto! Me gusta! Dolorous. Frenzied. Tender. Aflame. Alive. Welcome to DeVotchKa. Like vagrants lost among mariachi bands, bleary-eyed cowboys and Romanian fiddlers, DeVotchKa seems to keep company with no one for too long, unfurling a distinct oeuvre, unmistakably their own. On March 13, DeVotchKa blew into town to unveil new ballads off their latest album, “100 Lovers,” in Tempe’s The Marquee Theater. Seeing them in concert three times prior did nothing to immune me from the overall fervor that befell the crowd. During the concert, the multiinstrumentalist Magi wove together musical influences from cultures too busy dancing and shouting at one another to notice they were being alchemized into a Molotov cocktail of Gypsy, Mariachi, Slavic, Klezmer, Bolero and, of course, Rock ‘n’ Roll. DeVotchKa frontman, Nick
Urata, of part Sicilian and Romani ancestry, strolls onto the stage, signature bottle of red wine in hand, looking poised and ready to cause mass swooning. As the group’s main crooner/ troubadour, he fits the bill looking like some suffering rock’n’roll deity, and bears more than a passing resemblance to George Clooney. Jeanie Schroder, the quartet’s only female member, enters after Urata in her signature-style vintage-looking cocktail dress (tonight it is red). She picks up one of the three instruments she will play throughout the evening: a sousaphone (type of tuba) adorned with pink Christmas lights. Schroder beams generously, a stark contrast to Urata’s more brooding demeanor.
Nick Urata ... strolls onto the stage, signature bottle of red wine in hand, looking poised and ready to cause mass swooning. Shawn King and Tom Hagerman, both veritable musical virtuosos in their own right, appear after Schroder. King, trumpet and percussion maestro, is dressed sleekly in all black, appearing almost as if he could pass for a drummer in an East Coast post-punk band. Accordionist and violinist, Tom Hagerman, comes onto stage in a brown suit, suggesting that he could own the quirky antiquarian bookshop down the way, somewhere in Poland, circa 1930. Throughout the night,
DeVotchKa intermingled classics from previous albums with newer material found on their latest effort “100 Lovers.” As the show progressed, Urata proved his voice to be as poignant and plaintive as ever.
The quartet will make you clench your fists and beat at your heart. Though much of DeVotchKa’s aesthetic remained familiar, some facets of the show pointed to a departure from their oldworld feel. The songs from “100 Lovers” sounded unmistakeably cleaner and more lyrically streamlined. It is almost as if Urata was spending more time on jet planes and less time in seedy establishments getting inebriated while mythologizing women. Gone are the melodramatic lyrics that relay the self-indulgence of amorous misadventures. Think less Russian pathos and more polished indie-pop anguish. The highlight of the show took place during their encore when DeVotchKa finished with their classic gypsy tune “Such a Lovely Thing.” The theater came alive, feet suddenly aflame -- the rapture had arrived. The crowd, formally just a bevy of normal Arizona denizens, cast aside all pretense in favor of a desperate passion, like celebrants at a final Dionysian revel. Go see DeVotchKa. Do not think. Just Go. The quartet will make you clench your fists and beat at your heart. Weep, bleat and soar in one fell swoop. Expect DeVotchka’s peculiar brand of soul-enlarging romanticism. You will discover dance moves you never dreamed you had. You will leave with shimmering images of foreign femme fatales and dusty desert tableaus. Urata’s forlorn and beautiful howling will continue to reverberate in your ears, long after the concert has ended.
Horoscopes By Morgan Rosenberger Staff Writer
Aries (Mar 21-Apr 19): Spring is the season that brings the best luck to you, so take advantage of it. And stop searching. Happiness is right beside you. Remember that happiness can come in any form. Taurus (Apr 20-May 20): Prosperity will knock on your door soon, but be patient. In the meantime, traveling will turn out to be a good investment. Be wary of a scam that you may think is legitimate. Gemini (May 21-Jun 20): Within the year, you will make a change
for the better. That change may not come easily, and then it may continue to be hard work. Keep with it, and it will pay off in the long run. And keep your eyes peeled -- a new romance is in your future. Cancer (Jun 21-Jul 22): Now is a good time to start something new, to be creative. When an opportunity arises, take it! Also, financial investment in your future will yield results beyond your imagination.
Leo (Jul 23-Aug 22): You tend to get what you want using your charm and personality. Use this to your advantage. When you seek friendship this month, you
The Raven Review April 2011
will find someone special. Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 22): That thing you think no one knows? It has never been much of a secret. Don’t worry, though -you can trust your good friends. Also note: Business ventures will be unusually successful for you in the near future. Libra (Sep 23-Oct 22): Modify your thinking when new situations come your way, and a golden egg will fall in your lap. Be careful not to let it pass you by. You must be willing to change your opinions if you want to benefit from this opportunity.
Amber Faigin Staff Writer John Darnielle’s voice kicks off The Mountain Goats’ latest album “All Eternals Deck” like a familiar friend. The first track, “Damn These Vampires,” quickly proves that Darnielle returns as good as ever. Approachable and clever, without sacrificing creativity, the album rings with the familiar sounds of the band’s previous work. Once again, Darnielle sets the standard. The second track, “Birth of Serpents,” mixes upbeat, folky guitar and Darnielle’s optimistic and distinctive voice. His signature lyrics sound like poetry, including phrases such as, “And let the truth spring free, like a jack-in-the-box, like a hundred thousand cuckoo clocks, from the Oregon corners to the Iowa corn, to the rooms with the heat lamps where the snakes get born.” The powerful combination of simple language mixed with familiar imagery creates a larger dialogue, and makes The Mountain Goats’ lyrical style distinctive.
The powerful combination of simple language mixed with familiar imagery creates a larger dialogue and makes The Mountain Goats’ lyrical style distinctive. “All Eternals Deck,” which is the band’s thirteenth studio
Scorpio (Oct 23-Nov 21): Good news will be delivered to you by mail. And remember to keep your feet on the ground when you soon receive a lot of flattery. Enjoy the flattery, too -- you do deserve it! Sagittarius (Nov 22-Dec 21): Great kindness will befall you soon. Find release from your cares and have a good time. Reality will return, though, so when it does, do not be caught offguard. Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 19): Many memorable adventures are coming your way, and good things will happen to you in due time. Take advantage of
New Mountain Goats’ album surprises listeners album, experiments with a wider range of instruments and styles than its predecessor, “The Life of The World to Come.” Darnielle’s earliest work consisted of an acoustic guitar and eloquent lyrics recorded via boom-box. Although it tends toward basic chord structures, this album jumps around, fluctuating between simplistic, minimal folk to downright punk. A narrative theme threads the album together, and evokes feelings of anxiety and isolation. First-hand experiences, manic rambling, as well as metaphors, pervade the lyrics. They weave a mixture of intimate stories that conjure images of people who could be your neighbors. The track, “High Hawk Season,” comes with a delightful surprise of harmonies, a technique Darnielle has never used before. This, coupled with a bright ukulele and dark, dramatic lyrics, exemplify the band’s trademark of contrasting music and message. The overall feel of the album is bittersweet. Darnielle’s typical introspective and articulate lyrics complement and contradict bright, simple music. The tracks can stand on their own, yet interact well with each other as a whole. The second to last track, “Never Quite Free,” feels almost saccharine compared to the rest of the album, but with its comforting melodies and uplifting lyrics, it resonates with that deep, human need to be reassured. The concluding track, “Liza Forever Minnelli,” leaves the album’s narrative conflict unresolved, making the listener eager for future works.
these opportunities while they last. Aquarius (Jan 20-Feb 18): Following inner promptings will bring accomplishments in the form of a chance to take part in an exciting adventure. So listen to your gut! Savor your adventure, and it will yield lifelong memories. Pisces (Feb 19-Mar 20): You will make many changes before settling happily. Try traveling from your nesting place; it will bring you a broader cultural horizon. Spend time traveling while you can, and find the place that makes you happiest.
The Raven Review April 2011
M
By Rebecca Antsis Staff Writer What did Russia and the U.S. quarrel about owning in the early ’60s? What dastardly object can claim to be the inspiration for Luna Lovegood, the length of our month and the word “menopause”? All right, you get it. But what is she? Or who is he? The Greeks called her Selene, the Egyptians, Isis. The Norse liked calling him Mani and for the Mesopotamians, he was named Sin! Some are convinced a man permanently squats there. We have heard the moon take blame for all sorts of wackiness: turning upstanding citizens into ravenous werewolves, increasing crime rate or just bringing out the common lunatic in everyone -- you could say the moon historically has not enjoyed a flattering status. Oftentimes horoscopes may seem lacking in specificity because they only reveal a portion of you, without all the juicy interactions. Your Sun Sign (also known as your “zodiac”) is meant to signify your core constant (not total) personality. It can also reveal what sorts of environments make you flourish. Important information, but not comprehensive. In Occidental astrology, the moon sign represents your inner nature, your emotional life and how you find satisfaction in that realm. Because the Moon’s alignment is dependent upon exact time and place, you will have to figure out your moon sign on your own. For help, visit www.astro.com/cgi/ ade.cgi. Moon in the First House (Aries): Excitable. Temperamental. Reactive. Spontaneous. Selfreliant. You need emotional stimulation to be satisfied. Your tempers/moods are very changeable, and others take notice. Because of your emotional sensitivity, you are prone to take things too personally. Resist. Become more attuned to the emotional lives of others and you will bring happiness to the land. Moon in the Second House (Taurus): On the outside, you seem stoic. In fact, you are cautious. You feel with your senses. Appreciative of the familiar and the earthy, you are rooted -- perhaps a little bit too much so. Money and possessions provide a sense of security, oftentimes false. Do not let them entrap you. You may also like to have a hold on people and
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oon Signs
manipulate them, in order to validate your own self-worth. Resist this temptation.
Moon in the Third House (Gemini): Restless. Sensitive. You can lose yourself in others’ ideas. You have a knack for sensing psychological states in others. More comfortable intellectualizing emotions than feeling them, you tend to try to divert their presence by busying them away. Breathe. Allow them in, see them for what they are: just clouds passing by in your lovely blue sky. Greater awareness will follow. Moon in the Fourth House (Cancer): You yearn to belong. This may make you somewhat of a vagrant, often hopping from place to place to keep you emotionally fresh. The downside: immaturity, as you constantly exchange one external environment for another, without daring to peek inside yourself. Face your fear. It is not that scary, I promise. Potent attachments to the past and to habitual behaviors may lead to addictions. Watch yourself! Moon in the Fifth House (Leo): Dramatic. Social. Emotionally effusive. A risk-taker. Your inner child is alive and well. You have not lost your imagination or infatuation with the whimsical; you are prone to daydreams. Shared emotional experiences are a priority. You love a good chase. Profound fulfillment is elusive, as a result. Take the time to stop, smell the roses and appreciate what you have. Moon in the Sixth House (Virgo): Organized, healthoriented, studious, perfectionist. Emotional order is a necessity in your life. Without leading a life of varied utility, you feel ill at ease. Love to you is ideally expressed in tangible ways. Try to go easy on yourself. Examine the roots of your high expectations. Moon in the Seventh House (Libra): Peace-loving. Amiable. You seek fulfillment through meaningful human relationships. You are at your best when intimately attuned to a partner. You have a tendency to search for your ‘soul-mate.’ Emotionally tender, you find it difficult at times to be content by yourself; you fear loneliness. Give some thought as to what your basic needs and boundaries truly are, and then do not budge. Moon in the Eighth House (Scorpio): A master at reinvention. Passionate. Loyal. All-or-nothing mentality is
one of your pitfalls and you have a fascination with what is considered taboo or secretive. At times, you are too energetically preoccupied with sexual exploration. If fear overtakes you, a tendency towards jealousy and possessiveness of a partner may ensue. Try to steer away from black and white thinking. Examine your desire to possess others. Moon in the Ninth House (Sagittarius): Philosophical. Lover of various cultures and pluralities of existence. Reverential of the senses. Disdainful of the mundane. You are a thrill-seeker and an avid traveler, unhappy if not pursuing a challenging, definitive goal. Avarice, a burning for “more,” is something you have to learn to contend with. Check your “never enough” mentality. Realize sometimes less is more. Moon in the 10th House (Capricorn): Powerful. Lovers of structured environments. Get ’er done types. Those whose Moon is in Capricorn flourish best when life is organized. You have an emotional need for public acknowledgement of your achievements. Others are often drawn to you as a pragmatic role model. Attention must be paid to your tendency to seek external recognition. The challenge for you will be to listen to your heart. Seek ways of being content, independent of how others perceive you. Moon in the 11th House (Aquarius): Good-hearted. An unmistakable dreamer. Inspiring. You find strength in web-like associations with others. Your inner unrest is commonly manifested in the lack of ability to commit: to friends, to projects, even to aspirations. Try to do one thing at a time and remember no mortal can do it all. But one thing at a time adds up.
Patrons at LaBruzza’s enjoy the friendly atmosphere and delicious food. Photo by Morgan Rosenberger.
Unpretentious and flavorful, a lesser-known Prescott restaurant By Morgan Rosenberger and Amber Faigin Staff Writers Though not necessarily romantic in the typical sense, LaBruzza’s has been the site of three marriage proposals, including one on the night we visited (he hid the ring in her dessert!). This says something about the special atmosphere of the restaurant, which feels a bit like coming home for dinner with family. Gabe LaBruzza opened his first family-owned and operated restaurant on White Spar Road in Prescott, June, 1988. But the building was small, and the restaurant’s followers were many. In January, 1991, they moved to their current location, 1480 Iron Springs Road, just north of Walmart. LaBruzza is a large part of the business’s daily flavor, as he is often seen visiting with customers throughout the night. The menu features the recipes of LaBruzza’s mother, who came from Palermo, Sicily. The charmingly kitsch atmosphere, accented with red, white and green, features strings of lights and paintings depicting Italian scenery and food. As we were waiting for a table, LaBruzza told us, “Don’t go anywhere, especially if it’s your first time here.” The packed house
proved worth the wait. The Spaghettini, topped with a rich and savory homemade sauce and mild, hearty, freshly-made meatballs, satiated our craving for Italian. It came to the table piping-hot and more quickly than expected, given the full house. The servings come in generous portions, so prepare for leftovers. Their Eggplant Parmesan, a notoriously tricky dish to prepare -- excellent. Savory and tender, covered in flaky breadcrumbs -- every delicious bite, we relished.
A great hole-inthe-wall to visit, no matter the occasion. Authentically Italian in taste, their cappuccino comes highly recommended. The subtle taste of cinnamon flavored the bitter coffee to perfection. Sweet enough to enjoy, but not bogged down with sugar like most cappuccinos found today, this drink was perfect from beginning to end. Given its very affordable pricing, an evening at LaBruzza’s would be a perfect date night for college students, or a casual dining experience for the sumptuously inclined. Overall, a great hole-in-thewall to visit, no matter the occasion.
Moon in the 12th House (Pisces): Highly sensitive. Dominated by potent emotions. At times, you become overwhelmed. This requires you to carve out some quiet and solitude in order to process your thoughts. Feelings of being misunderstood arise with Moon in Pisces, as does the need to withdraw from reality. Try reaching out to others when you feel lonely instead of retreating. Learn from your moods and realize this too shall pass. Another excellent site for your FREE birth-chart: http://www. moonsigncalendar.net/calculatemoonsign.htm
LaBruzza’s delicious Eggplant Parmesan is sure to satisfy. Photo by Amber Faigin.
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The Raven Review April 2011
Local upcoming events for spring “The Way of Natural History” Book Launch & Reading. Prescott College faculty member Tom Fleischner introduces an anthology he has edited, of essays about natural history by writers from diverse fields and points of view. April 7, 5:30 p.m., Prescott College Chapel, 220 Grove Ave. The book is forthcoming from Trinity University Press in spring 2011.
Prescott College Art Gallery Juried Student Exhibition: Artist talk with juror Nicole Ponzler: April 8, 5 p.m. Reception: 6 - 8 p.m. 232 N. Granite St. Artist talk with John Risseeuw, printmaker, head of Fine Printing and Book arts program at Arizona State University and Cabbage Head Press, April 14, 7 p.m. For more information visit: www.prescott.edu/gallery. The Syringa Tree The Artist’s Path Presents The Syringa Tree by Pamela Gein, winner of the Obie Award: Best Play, 2001. “A tender remembrance of a South African childhood that witnessed both beauty and brutality.” Fridays, April 8 and 15 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, April 9 at 2 p.m. Get tickets at www. ElksOperaHouse.com or call the box office at (928) 777-1367.
Visit www.TheArtistsPath.org for more information, or call Gail at (928) 771 2554.
SEVEN by Multiple AwardWinning Women Playwrights The remarkable, true story of seven women who overcome insurmountable odds to achieve justice and freedom in their home countries. Granite Performing Arts Center, 218 N. Granite St. Saturdays, April 9 and 16 at 7 p.m. Sunday, April 10 at 2 p.m. Find tickets online at www.TheArtistsPath.org, buy at the door or call Gail at (928) 771-2554. Baby Shower at the Yavapai Humane Society The Yavapai Humane Society is throwing a “baby shower” for their youngest animals with training demonstrations, vendor booths, a bake sale and many children’s activities. Donations of baby gifts (puppy and kitten supplies, as well as cash) will be accepted to assist our animal foster parents. Saturday, April 9, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Yavapai Humane Society, 1625 Sundog Ranch Rd. Call (928) 445-2666, ext. 12 or visit www.yavapaihumane.org for more information. Water Security: An Emergency
Evolving
In a talk entitled “Water Security: An Evolving Emergency,” Ecosa Institute Director Tony Brown will review the current state of global and local water supplies and propose methodologies for securing our water resources into the distant future. Saturday, April 9, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at the Granite Peak Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 882 Sunset Ave. For more information, call (928) 445-4218 or visit www.cwagAZ. org. Bermuda Avenue Triangle Road Runners Productions presents Bermuda Avenue Triangle, the hit Broadway comedy by Renee Taylor and Joe Bologna, directed by Roberta Konen. Sunday, April 10, 2 p.m. at the Elks Opera House. www. elksoperahouse.com.
New Play Readings The Artist’s Path and Prescott College present new plays from Arizona playwrights written in response to conflict and social crisis. Listen to new play readings and evaluate them, as the Best Full Length, Best Short and Best Secondary Student plays are selected. Tuesday through Thursday, April 12, 13, 14, at 7 p.m. Granite Performing Arts Center, 218 N. Granite St.
Portabella on ciabatta with roasted red peppers
Heartbreak Hotel -- a Salute to Young Elvis This critically acclaimed concert production features the music of young Elvis belting out hits from the first part of his career. Thursday, April 14, at 7 p.m., Elks Opera House, (928) 777-1370. www.elksoperahouse. com. A Salute to The Eagles Eagles tribute band, Hotel California -- A Salute to The Eagles will perform Friday, April 15, 7:30 p.m., at Yavapai College Performance Hall. For more information visit: www.hotelcal.com.
Get Out! Get Into It! Discover Prescott’s Natural History A one-day festival anchored by the dedication of the Watson Willow Ecosystem Important Bird Area (IBA). The event includes a full day of free activities for individuals and families. Saturday, April 16. For more information and time schedules visit www. prescottaudubon.org. Phoenix Symphony in Concert The Yavapai Symphony Association presents the Phoenix Symphony in concert, with Christian Lindberg as guest conductor and trombone soloist. Sunday, April 17, 3 p.m. at Yavapai College Performance Hall. For
For this you will need: 1 loaf ciabatta bread. I like to use mini-loaves for this, but sliced works too. 1 portabella mushroom cap ½ cup baby arugula 1 red pepper 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil 1 medium frying pan with lid 1 cooking sheet 1 paper bag For non-vegans, buffalo mozzarella is an excellent addition to this sandwich.
Set your oven to broil on high. Once it is good and hot, place your red pepper on a cooking sheet and put it in the oven. Leave the oven door cracked open (you can do this with a wooden spoon) and keep a close eye on it. The pepper will blister, then turn black on top. Turn it every few minutes until it is mostly black all the way around -- trust me on this! Take your pepper out and wrap it in a paper bag to steam and cool. When the pepper is cool to the touch, take it out of the paper bag. The skin should peel off easily
if you rub it gently. Make sure to remove all the skin and then pull the pepper into strips about half an inch wide. Bring about a half cup of water to a gentle boil. Place the portabella caps in the water and cover for ten minutes, letting them steam. Turn them over halfway through. They will turn a darker shade of brown and shrink. Drain excess water. Add a tablespoon of oil to the pan and saute the caps. Assemble the mushrooms, arugula, red pepper, vinegar and olive oil. Enjoy!
Prescott College Trashion Show Trashion: A portmanteau of “trash” and “fashion.” Clothing, jewelry, accessories, etc. created from used, thrown-out, found and repurposed elements. The show will be held on April 20, 7 - 9 p.m. at Prescott College’s Mariposa Building. The pieces will be displayed at the Prescott College Earth Day Festival on April 21, to be voted on by the public from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Prescott College Third Annual Earth Day Thursday, April 21, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Prescott College Crossroads Courtyard, 220 Grove Ave. Earth Day Celebration Come out and enjoy a mixture of fun and informative booths, food, entertainment and exploring ways to be green. Saturday, April 23, 10 a.m. at the Courthouse Square. For more information visit: www. yavapaiosa.org/earthday.htm. Let us know: To see your event listed in The Raven Review, please contact abjorklundmischler@prescott.edu by April 15 for events occuring from April 28 to June 15.
Explore a new side of Prescott By Morgan Rosenberger Staff Writer
By Amber Faigin Staff Writer
information and tickets call the Yavapai Symphony Association’s office at (928) 776-4255.
Think that there is nothing to do in Prescott? Do not let boredom take hold! No matter your interests, there is sure to be something you will enjoy in the Prescott area. The Prescott Astronomy Club was founded in 1974 to further the education of its members and the public in astronomy. They meet every first Wednesday for their monthly meetings, at the Prescott Public Library at 6 p.m. They also meet for Third Thursday Star Talks which feature different speakers and subjects each meeting. Open to the public, they take place at the Public Library, starting at 6:30 p.m. Other special events are offered by the club, such as stargazing parties. For more information about joining the club, or special events, please visit http://www. prescottastronomyclub.org. Heritage Park Zoological Sanctuary is a great place to visit if you love animals. They are open year round and their hours for the summer are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. All of the animals found at Heritage Park Zoo have been rescued. Make it a day trip and bring a picnic to enjoy at spots throughout the park. Visit http://www.heritageparkzoo.org for more information. Everything nature-related can be found at the Highland Center. The Highland Center is a nonprofit science and ecological education organization located on Walker road in Prescott. Their facilities include a learning center, a store, three miles of trails and facilities that are available
for rent. On Wednesdays and Saturdays explore nature with complimentary tours given by volunteer naturalists. 9-11:30 a.m. All ages welcome. Come prepared with water, comfortable shoes and layers. Many other special events are held at the Highland Center. For a list of these events, and other information, please visit http://www.highlandscenter.org. They are also always looking for volunteers, so check their website for opportunities. If you enjoy learning, and need something to do for an afternoon, a week, or longer, the Lifelong Learning Center at Prescott College offers classes year-round for people of all ages. They offer courses in professional development, educational travel and adventure, fine arts, summer camps and much more! Get your Wilderness First Responder certification, or take a week long cooking camp! Learn Spanish, start practicing Tai Chi, or even take a hiking tour in the Grand Canyon! There is a class for everyone at the Lifelong Learning Center. For a complete list of their classes, visit http://www.prescott.edu/ lifelonglearning. Also be sure to visit Arcosanti, an experimental settlement located 45 minutes southeast of Prescott. Started in 1970, Arcosanti’s blend of architecture and ecology demonstrates ways to lessen our destructive impact on the earth. Open to the public, this environmentally-friendly facility offers tours, so be sure to visit their website at http:// www.arcosanti.org to find out more.
The Raven Review April 2011
-Opinion-
What Prescott lacks: a climbing gym By Libby Sherwood Coumnist Flagstaff has one. Phoenix has several. Cities all across the country benefit from them. Despite Prescott’s large population of climbers, our town still lacks a climbing gym. Prescott is home to hundreds of climbers. Although the town boasts some of the best crackclimbing in Arizona, it lacks the training ground that many use to build strength and endurance for their outdoor endeavors. In 2008, I volunteered as a route-setter at the small climbing wall at the YMCA that was built by the CEO’s daughter, a climbing enthusiast herself. One day, I arrived to strengthtrain to find the whole facility disassembled. They would not even allow me to retrieve the holds that I had purchased. My personal investment of time and money meant nothing. The YMCA board had already voted
to put the money elsewhere. Even non-climbers may benefit from a local climbing gym. Gyms are a perfect place to host birthday parties or bring a friend to try something new. I have seen people on their first dates at the gym or showing their friends “the ropes.” Prescott resident Amylee Thornhill grew up climbing at a gym in Montana; she described the experience as, “super social. The camaraderie is great, the competition is fierce and it’s so fun. It’s a great workout and it’s great for your self esteem.” Climbing programs for kids can provide a physical and emotional outlet and motivate young people to be active. Kids who never excelled in team sports have an opportunity to find something new in climbing. I met one teenager training at a climbing gym in Ridgeway, Colorado, who commented that if he had not found climbing at a crucial point in his life, he would
have been far more inclined to experiment with drugs and alcohol. An indoor gym also provides a great learning environment. “When you live in a town where climbing is easily accessible and it’s a cool thing to do, people don’t know to build anchors, they don’t know how to lead properly, and that’s when accidents happen,” said Thornhill. “In a gym, you don’t climb until you learn how to tie the knots and [pass] a test. ... Gyms have super-strict requirements on safety and people are naturally going to take that outside. The gym can be an amazing gateway to the outdoor climbing world.” Experienced climbers in Prescott are searching for a training-ground close to home. Attracting such a wide range of people, a gym could serve as a social hub, blending Prescott’s energetic youth with its longtime local color and its transient travelers alike.
Safety measures missing at Granite Mountain By Daniel Roca Columnist
This past winter, the critical injury of Granite Mountain climber Elise Anderson highlighted the absence of safety measures for rock-climbing in Prescott. What if the rope had not caught Anderson, and she had taken a 35-foot fall onto a knife-blade edge? What kind of rescue measures would we have in place for that situation? The climbing community in Prescott needs to consider establishing a litter cache on Granite Mountain -- a rescue stretcher for the transport of the injured, stored in case of emergency. The mountain boasts some of the best climbing in Arizona, with visitors traveling from around the globe to spend time there. Making sure that our mountain is both adventurous and safe is our responsibility. The guidelines and technicalities
outlined by The National Forest Service (NFS) personnel, who were unavailable for comment on the topic, place some challenges in the way of implementing a litter cache. The NFS designates Granite Mountain as a Wilderness Area, which requires that “there shall be no … other form of mechanical transport and no structure or installation within any such area.” Litter caches fall within a grey zone in that definition.
Though Granite Mountain is a Wilderness Area, it is also extremely close to the city of Prescott. Viren Perumal, of the American Mountain Guides Association, who aided with Anderson’s rescue, commented, “There should be no barrier to rescue when we are so close.”
While eager to help implement a system of safety measures on the mountain, Perumal now resides in Mammoth, Calif. and feels that the initiative needs to come from Prescott residents. The Prescott climbing community needs to step up. A litter cache does not quite fit under the definition of an installation and developing one atop Granite Mountain has potential. Yet the idea of leaving anything man-made in the wilderness for an extended period of time presents reasonable concern for the NFS. We need individuals to take initiative, do the necessary research and determine what the NFS would need to make a litter cache possible. And beyond installing a litter, Prescott climbers need to implement a system of responsibility if we want to make our world-class mountain more safe for ourselves and visitors.
No Lady Madonnas with bats for lashes downing drinks two times stronger than the cleanser you would want to use on your earrings. Entre or skedaddle? I keep waffling for some time before I figure, hey, maybe I will find my next Socrates. Better than turning into a chimpanzee. My heinie races up the stairs to Hooligan’s bar. Let us see how this interview goes. My subject stands behind the bar. The scant crowd sits idly. Oh, how I lament for the daytime bartenders -- relegated to out-of-towners or singlebrandy businessmen in search of big screens and football. Three windows facing Whiskey Row let the sunshine stream in generously. I can see the immaculate metal latticework on the ceiling, the sheen of the tiled dance floor, the forestgreen carpeting. No doubt, the place is in good shape. I feel unsettled, but install myself anyway on a stool away from the other customers. Scott, tidyhaired, tidily-attired, bustles
and bristles with energy, far more than the amount his four patrons require. If he pays me any mind, it is a couple glances of the squeaky-clean variety. Let us begin the questioning. REBECCA ANTSIS: So Scott... what is your favorite drink to make for patrons? Scott: I like to make Bloody Marys. I don’t know any of that fancy stuff. I’m an oldschool trained bartender, I’m no mixologist. I entertain people and I pour ‘em drinks. (Scott is so matter fact, I just want to ruffle his feathers.) OK Scott, tell me your philosophy on life. (He inhales deeply and shrugs.)Well... I try to walk around without a chip on my shoulder. I try to let the bad things just roll off my shoulder, ya know. Always try to not let the shit get to ya. Stay happy. Keeps ya healthy, plus … it’s contagious. I’m in my 40s and no high-blood pressure. (He beams. The last time I heard someone this chipper they were selling something. Then
The Prescott climbing community needs to step up.
Whiskey Wisdom
By Rebecca Antsis Columnist Round two of Whiskey Wisdom. On my way to Hooligan’s Pub to meet my barroom philosopher. To be honest, I’m not in the mood. Perhaps it is the thought of whiskey getting to me, or the abounding pile of work quickly taking over my life, but either way, I am not in the mood for amiable chit-chat. I am over the tap-TAP-tapping at my keyboard like some damn chimpanzee trial and tribulatin’ for tropical fruit. No, this is 1 p.m. on a gloriously sunny spring afternoon. So pretty, in fact, I contemplate abandoning the interview altogether. I want to: a) Work on my tan (and thereby directly increase my “exotic” quotient); b) Get “shtupped” (consult your local Yiddish woman if you require translation on that one); or c) Get some shut-eye. Alas, there will be no white powdery stuff on sticky linoleum floors. No cowboys saddled and slumped, drowning in whiskey.
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ear Erika,
Advice from Erika DeLeo: Frank and unfiltered
Dear Erika, I love meat. I have a hard time sleeping and concentrating if I don’t eat it at least twice a day. But I live in a house of students who are very food conscious and they criticize my meat intake. I am feeling more and more self-conscious about it everyday. Yesterday I ate in my room alone and hid the beef in a stew that I called bean chili. Even though they don’t always ask, I’m so ashamed of it, that I’m sure they can see my tail between my legs. What do you think, Erika: should I wean myself off meat? Sincerely, Jimmy Funnel Dear Jimmy, Many people become vegetarians and experience nothing like what you are going through. I am sorry to hear that you have to hide things from your housemates. More sustainable meat is available, of course, but, whether or not you can afford that right now, I do not recommend weaning yourself off meat. It sounds like you have tried, and it has had negative effects on your health. This is a time in your life when it is especially important to sleep well and concentrate. Be open about your problem to your housemates so you do not have to eat in fear. Keep in mind that your body could change, too. Try again in a few years. Until then, your ability to function is more important than the relatively small impact your meat intake has on the environment. Dear Erika, This town is small. So small, it’s annoying. I run into the same people all the time, and while that is wonderful, I never meet anyone new. That makes dating kinda hard. It seems everyone ends up dating their friends’ former girlfriends/ boyfriends. How am I ever going to find someone new and interesting in this town? I mean, really? Signed, Jaded Cowboy Dear Jaded, again, I guess he is. I probe.) But what is the craziest thing you have seen from behind the bar? (A look of concentration on his well-groomed brow arises.) Oh, uh… gosh. I’ve seen a group of homeless guys -- transients -come in and pool change to buy two beers. (Better. But I want to hear about cowboys on drugs and circus freaks and biker brawls and general madness. I am in just one of those moods. I probe further.) Bikers. They behave? Oh yeah... I mean we don’t have a ‘no colors’ policy, or anything like that, that rejects bikers. To my knowledge, we’ve never had any problems. A few groups coming in on their rides, checking places out... (I am crestfallen. This man is not capable of a mean word. I cast away all pretense at subtlety.) OK, Scott. There has got to be something you are not telling me. Anything crazy happen here you are forgetting?
Good news! More women than men live in Prescott. After all, men die younger than women, and senior citizens account for a quarter of the local population. Never mind that, though. Let us do the math: A 2010 census estimated that 116,562 people live within a ten-mile radius of downtown Prescott. Of those, 18 percent are between the ages of 20 and 34, which makes 20,922 people. Halve that for women and you have 10,461. According to a 2006 U.S. census, 48.5 percent of U.S. women are unmarried. Round down an arbitrary 25 percent for engaged couples and old maids, apply that to Prescott, and you have 3,805 eligible, beautiful bachelorettes waiting for you within ten miles. The numbers do not lie! Dear Erika, My girlfriend and I have been together for a couple months and we’re thinking about moving in together at the end of the semester. It feels like it may be a big step too quickly, but at the same time, we find ourselves with each other at the end of almost every day, anyway. It’s been two years since I left the last girl I lived with, and that was difficult to get over. I feel reluctant to set myself up for that kind of hurt again. What should I do? Signed, Nervous and Indecisive Dear Indecisive, It sounds like things are going well, if you are planning to move in together. Why jeopardize what you have by rocking the boat? Is the convenience of not traveling across town to see her worth the risk of ruining the relationship? It is understandable if you are afraid to share your fears with her. It might make her think you are backing out entirely. Do you think she would dump you just because you did not want to make a huge life change after only a few months? If so, the relationship was not meant to be. Email edeleo@prescott.edu for advice before Friday, April 15. Uh... well, on St. Patty’s day, during the afternoon a big college-age fella, big (gesticulates broad shoulders), seemed sober as a judge. Ordered a Coors and a rum an’ coke, drinks the Coors, half the rum... and I had to throw him out! I’ve never seen anyone turn on me that quick. (Ooh … have I found my juice?) What do you mean? (Scott wobbles in circles to demonstrate.) I think my work here is done. Scott has got war stories. I can tell. Although, I do not think he is in a chatty mood. I thank him and head out. Now I can work on bronzing my skin and getting some shuteye. Who knows, maybe a little shtupping is in my future. Fabulous. If you are interested in being featured for next issue’s Whiskey Wisdom, have your own barroom philosophy you’d like to share, or if you plain just want to tell Beka how swell you think her articles are, send an e-mail! rebeccaantsis@gmail.
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New health care services at Prescott College
By Maria Johnson Staff Writer
Prescott College now provides health care for students through the Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC). Within walking distance from the college, four certified physicians at the YRMC PhysicianCare Family Medicine Office offer appointments on the same or next day. Laurie Silver, Dean of Student Life, explained that this will greatly increase students’ accessibility to health care. “This eliminates the process of having to find a doctor or go to Urgent Care,” she said. Both students and faculty have expressed their challenges in finding reliable health care in
Church in state Cont. from p.4
Blain has concerns about the steady number of cases recently brought to the courts in attempts to bring unscientific education, such as creationism, into public school curricula. “When we don’t provide factbased education for our children, we jeopardize the ability of future generations to cope with the significant scientific challenges they will face. ... Fact-based education is one of the most critical moral issues of our time,” said Blain. She also sees abstinence-only based sex education as unscientific and dangerous. “Increases in
the Prescott area. This burden has been the driving force behind the College’s partnership with PhysicianCare, in the hopes that a dependable, easy-to-access doctor will be available at all times. Silver commented, “YRMC PhysicianCare is dedicated to better serving the Quad City area, and so when we approached them, they were excited at the opportunity to partner with Prescott College and serve our students.” All students with Prescott College insurance are eligible for this service, as are students with other insurance providers accepted by YRMC. The Prescott College insurance requires a $100 deductible and will pay for 80
percent of the costs. This new arrangement between YRMC and Prescott College requires that students act responsibly about maintaining their appointments or cancelling ahead of time. If students miss appointments repetitively without notifying YRMC, the arrangement could be threatened. “Everyone needs to do their part,” encouraged Silver. Students interested in using this new health care option must first fill out a form at the Student Life Office before making their initial appointment at YRMC. Silver emphasized, “We need to get the word out to PC students, so they can get medical care when they need it.”
pregnancy and STDs in abstinenceonly schools are obvious indicators of the failure of these programs,” said Blain. Despite the First Amendment, the prevalence of religion in politics has a long history in the U.S. Blain mentioned that religious groups also opposed the abolition of slavery, the women’s rights movement and interracial marriages. “While there certainly are progressive religious people who are inspired by their religious values to work for justice, historically every civil rights battle in the history of this country has been won in spite of religion,” said Blain. Blain points out that the many
different religions in the U.S. make theologically-based laws also unfair to certain gender and sexuality-based identities. “We have to legislate based on good reasons that apply regardless of an individual’s religious ideology. If there are secular reasons for denying LGBT people the right to form legally protected, government-recognized families, we can talk about that, debate it, test the evidence and so on. But when the argument is ‘because the Bible says one man and one woman,’ there’s no longer any basis for a rational discussion,” said Blain. “It usually starts with whether or not there’s a God -- and
The Raven Review April 2011
Yavapai diaper drive By Daniel Roca Staff Writer
One of the largest needs lowincome families face today is not for food or clothing, but diapers for their babies. From April 10 to May 8, organizations across Yavapai County will open their doors to diaper donations in an effort to help struggling families. “Diapers are a tremendous need,” said Claire Louge, Community Outreach Coordinator for First Things First, an Arizona-based early childhood organization that works to ensure children are healthy and ready to succeed before they enter school. “It takes a little more than $2,000 a year to keep a baby in diapers. For minimum-income families, this equates to about 10 percent of their annual income. Sixty-two percent of single moms in this county are below the poverty line,” she explained. “And there is no government assistance for diapers.” This year, First Things First is partnering with fire stations to collect donations before
distributing them to community organizations. One such organization, the Community Pregnancy Center (CPC), a pro-life organization located on East Gurley Street, uses a system called “Earn While You Learn” to educate parents, as well as provide them with diapers. Through this program, parents attend courses like Early Childhood Development or Pregnancy and Childbirth, in return for “Mommy Money” or “Daddy Bucks,” which they can redeem for diapers at a baby store. The Diaper Drive also accepts cloth-diaper donations, for those who would like to promote a more sustainable alternative. However, Louge explained that most lowerincome families do not have access to the laundry facilities that clothdiapers often require. Louge emphasized the need for diapers sizes 3-6 and that “we need diapers just for babies please!” Want to make a financial contribution? Those interested can visit www.youthcount.org to make a direct donation.
frankly, that’s the least relevant question in my life,” said Blain. “The most relevant question in my life is always: How am I going to improve the world around me? I won’t be on my deathbed wondering if there is or isn’t a God. I will be wondering if I am leaving the world a better place than I found it.” The Secular Student Alliance
plans to engage productively in interfaith dialogue. Blain believes that “The war between theists and non-theists is only creating unnecessary divisiveness between groups of people. ... We have a lot of common ground. We’re all human beings. Most of us value life, family, community and want a world where people are happy, healthy and free.”
The Raven Review April 2011
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Prescott area wildlife By Maria Johnson Staff Writer and Illustrator
From golden grasslands to thick ponderosa forests spotted with aspens, Prescott’s diverse landscape supports a large variety of wildlife. With more than 450 miles of trails surrounding these natural areas, some lucky explorers may catch a glimpse of an intriguing scaly, furry or feathered critter. Here are a few of the creatures one may encounter in the area:
Mule Deer: Residing in all local areas, these mammals are perfectly camouflaged in the Prescott landscape. Fawns are born in May through June, so keep your eyes open for newborns and their mothers, primarily at dawn and dusk.
Collared Peccary: Almost always smelled before they are seen, these strange creatures, also known as javelina, can be seen traveling in herds of six to 12. They feed largely on prickly pear cacti (or your garden) and can be seen in the mornings and evenings in cooler weather. Observe quietly from a distance -- these animals are easily startled and can be aggressive when threatened.
Bobcat: These fuzzy kitties are twice the size of a typical house cat, and are wild predators. Their range includes the entire US, with Prescott included. Chances of seeing one are slim; however, fresh tracks in the dirt indicate their elusive feline presence.
Great Horned Owl: With a four-foot wingspan and a height of nearly two feet, these large, yellow-eyed owls are often heard hooting throughout the night. While hiking, do not forget to look up -- this species likes large trees such as cottonwoods and enjoys residing in the abandoned nests of ravens or red-tailed hawks.
Great Blue Heron: These elegant birds are the largest of the North American herons and can be seen wading in bodies of water silently stalking their prey of fish and other small animals. With a wingspan of almost six feet, these birds are easier to spot gliding above as they are often well-hidden within the riparian areas in which they live.
Acorn Woodpecker: Groups of these animated redheaded birds are commonly seen nesting in dead trees in ponderosa forests. They collect acorns, their primary food source, and store them in granaries of individuallydrilled holes in trees. These trees may hold up to 50,000 acorn stashes.
Eastern Collared Lizard: A rainbow of a reptile, the eastern collared lizard is a mediumsized lizard often seen basking in the sun on warmer days. When at top speed, this species can actually lift up its front legs and take off running on only its hind limbs.
Short-Horned Lizard: Stare at the ground while you walk to find this plump little critter -- often near anthills in wide-open grasslands. It calmly basks in the morning sunshine. Approach cautiously: This little guy squirts blood from his eyes when frightened by predators.
Mexican Spadefoot Toad: After several months spent buried underground, these toads emerge with the arrival of summer monsoon rains. Follow their croaks at night to find them in damp and warm habitats.
Fresh from the oven, a loaf of Whole-Wheat Spelt Flax Sourdough rests open and broken into wedges on the table. Some of these organic golden crumbs roll precariously close to the edge, where they might fall conveniently into my palm and enter my mouth. The loaf on the table is the latest child of Pedal Bread, a local business and independent study created by Prescott College students Kelly Morton and Chloe Rossano. Their goal is simple: to provide the community with an affordable and delicious alternative to bread choices in Prescott. “The bread options in Prescott are ridiculous,” said Morton. “Pangea and New Frontiers are really expensive. And if you don’t get it from those two places, you get it from Safeway, which has a lot
of preservatives in it.” Buying your bread from Pedal Bread costs $3 per loaf. Or, if you prefer to pay in bulk, join the Bread Share for $16 per month and have a fresh loaf delivered every week, via bicycle, to your door-step. “Bread-baking is a lost tradition,” said Rossano. “Bread is so simple. It has three ingredients and everyone can do it if they try. In a country where we don’t have that much food culture … I think bread has the potential to become that again.” Morton grew up in a family that emphasized the importance and culture of food. “Decisions you make around food are very political,” said Morton. “Especially right now, where you buy your food from, you are supporting something every time you do that. Even growing your own food … is taking a stand against the dysfunctional food system that we
Adventure destinations By Libby Sherwood Staff Writer Moab, Utah Activity: Climbing, hiking, mountain biking, rafting, offroading Driving time: 8 hours
Bakers on bikes deliver fresh bread to your doorstep By Daniel Roca Staff Writer
Climbers in Joshua Tree National Park, Calif. Photo by Bobby Treadwell.
have.” Though the project is currently small, they have high ambitions for it. They plan to take special orders and continue their Bread Share through the summer and fall, hoping to sign up at least 10 individuals per season. In the fall, they intend to begin a share that would allow people to purchase an entire semester of bread in advance, ensuring fresh bread at your doorstep every week. Affordable, simple and healthy, the organic loaves range from Walnut Currant Whole-Wheat to Olive Garlic Rosemary, each one a golden basket of flavors waiting to be carried home and eaten. Interested in trying one of Pedal Bread’s Creations? You can find them Wednesdays outside Prescott College’s Community Lunch, or contact Morton and Rossano at pedalbread@gmail. com. Also, look for Pedal Bread on
An endless red desert paradise, Moab offers everything from whole-in-the-wall cafés with bacon blueberry muffins to remote desert towers with astounding views. Moab’s world-famous mountain biking accomodates every level of rider. You will find everything from single track and slick-rock riding to remote dirt roads. Sink down into the canyons or ride the mesa-tops. Nearby Indian Creek offers some of the best climbing in the west, or at least the most notorious. Covered in splitter cracks, the sandstone walls tower over the basin campground. On a hot day, raft down the Colorado River as it winds through the Canyonlands and the famous Arches. Or tour the Indian petroglyph carvings found sprinkled throughout the area while learning about the rich Anasazi history. Note: For delicious bacon blueberry muffins mentioned above, visit the Love Muffin Café. Joshua Tree, California Activity: Climbing, hiking Driving time: 6 hours On a typical weekday, tents dot the small campground and the whistle of stove-top espresso makers pierces the quiet of earlymorning whispers. Throughout the year people find their second family of like-minded nature seekers at Joshua Tree National Park. In the winter, those looking to escape cold conditions flock to this desert playground. The world famous park attracts visitors from around the globe looking to climb the distinctive routes. The quartz monzonite’s notorious slab appeals to and intimidates the best of climbers. Here it is possible to climb all day on the short, one-to-three pitch
traditional routes. Bring your tick list and your gusto; Joshua Tree is the perfect training ground for all levels. Mount Lemmon, Arizona Activity: Climbing, cycling, hiking Driving time: 4 hours Located within the Santa Catalina peaks outside of Tucson, Arizona, Mount Lemmon rises above the desert to nearly 10,000 feet. The climbing generally challenges visitors and offers a mix of sport and traditional routes. Over 1,500 routes populate the area, making it one of the most condensed climbing venues in the state. As the terrain is not for the faint of heart, many running and cycling athletes choose Mount Lemmon as a training ground. The road to the top gains 6,000 feet in 25 miles. It is no wonder that Lance Armstrong chose this region to train in 2010. Zion, Utah Activity: Climbing, canyoneering Driving time: 6 hours
hiking,
Many American climbers learn to aid and big-wall climb at Zion. Popular aesthetic sandstone routes such as Moonlight Buttress are perfect choices for entry-level walls. Located in southeastern Utah between Saint George and Cedar City, the nearby town of Springdale resembles Sedona, a bustling tourist community. Most of the climbing bums will be out of sight, on distant walls. If you are into adventure, then you have found the best place to explore deep slot-canyons that carry on for miles. Hidden within the canyon, some of these routes can be easily navigated while others require tricky route-finding and ropes. Many involve wading through narrow pools, and offer a cool relief to the arid weather. Expect to pay large park fees to enter or remain in the park overnight, but know that your contribution aids in road maintenance and free shuttle services.
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The Raven Review April 2011
Off-road driving damages trails in Prescott By Åsa Björklund Staff Writer In the spring, Off Highway Vehicles (OHVs) can severely damage forest trails that environmentalists hope the government will protect. The four-wheel drive clubs, on the other hand, blame careless drivers for creating a bad reputation for everyone. Many hikers complain that while enjoying a beautiful, quiet day in the mountains, the air suddenly splits with the tremendous noise of roaring engines: four-wheel drive cars, motorbikes or AllTerrain Vehicles (ATVs) barrel down the path, even splashing mud on the hikers. “I would say that 80 percent of the damage we see on trails is because of ATV use,” said Scott Brady, president of Overland Journal, a locally-based magazine that specializes in traveling with motorized vehicles. He believes that ATV riders generally do not think about land stewardship. “They’re out for the day just to have fun. Their ATV is a toy,” said Brady. Because of the limited number of ATV clubs, most riders have little knowledge about their environmental impact. Brady commented on the low age and maturity level
of riders, since driving an ATV does not require a license. As a result, they give all four-wheel drivers a terrible reputation. OHV use in Arizona has exploded by 347 percent since 1998, according to Arizona Game and Fish Department. When people drive off the designated roads they damage soil and plants, which leads to erosion. It can also pollute streams and fish habitats. With the increase in OHVs, there have been more illegal fires and litter -- old beer cans often outnumber the pine cones. In 2009, in response to this fairly new recreational activity, the Arizona state legislature created new rules for OHVs. They implemented a sticker program to help fund the management and created the OHV Ambassador program. Consisting of trained volunteers, the program helps educate the public about safe and responsible use, and maintains trails and facilities, explained Jason Williams of the Prescott National Forest Office. Some of the roads through basalt landscapes can be significantly disturbed when they are wet. Williams commented, “We actually have signs indicating it is illegal to travel on [these wet roads].”
Brady would like the government to require a driver’s license for ATV use outside of private property or designated recreational areas. To have a license plate on the vehicle should also be enforced, since it is very hard to identify the ATV riders who drive recklessly. “There has to be some kind of consequence to bad judgment,” said Brady. “I remember getting my driver’s license and I knew that if I was speeding and got a ticket, there was a consequence.”
“Eighty percent of the damage we see on trails is because of ATV use.” If users stay on designated routes there is little threat to the environment, according to Williams. He recommends people use the Motor Vehicle Use Map, which shows all of the open roads and trails around Prescott. “The roads of Prescott National Forest have been around for 50 to 60 years so they are designed to take vehicular traffic,” said Brady. “The problem is when people start driving off of those roads, driving up gullies or going up the sides of a hill, [causing] erosion.”
Brady also warns against driving during spring, when the ice and snow melt. “You can do tremendous damage. You can literally dig ruts that can last for years,” said Brady. “This time of the year, just go to a different area, like Sedona, or down to the desert. That’s true for all users: horseback riders, mountain bikers and ATVs.” Brady advocates the concept of stewardship, meaning that everyone’s actions affect the environment and everyone has a responsibility to take care of nature. In addition, clubs, online communities and individual drivers should continue to teach people about environmental stewardship, Brady suggested. “I believe that we should leave a place better than we found it, which means we should actively pick up trash if we see it. We should be cleaning up campgrounds and we should minimize our impact when we’re out driving around,” said Brady. Williams recommends people stop by land management agencies to get tips on places to visit and asks that people report any concerns to local managers. Also, get involved in volunteering, such as the OHV Ambassador Program.
Some of Brady’s technical tips on how to drive with the least environmental impact: • Shift into four-wheel drive as soon as you leave an asphalt road. Even a slight spin with the wheels can damage any unpaved surface. • Slow down and lower the air pressure in the tires to get better traction. • Do not put your vehicle in a situation where it exceeds its capability. • Get experience as a driver; the more you know, the less impact you will have on the terrain.
The new Prescott College student housing plan
Graphic by Daniel Roca.