Desert Messenger DECEMBER 18, 2024 by Desert Messenger

Mayor and Council sworn in

By Shanana Rain Golden-Bear

During the Quartzsite Town Council meeting held Tuesday, December 10, elected and appointed council members took their oaths of office with Judge Pamela Shirley of the Magistrate Court before assuming their seats. Nancy Nichols first resigned the temporary position that Council appointed her to fill the vacancy caused by resignation of Sam Saxton to join the Air Force. Gary Ensunsa was recently appointed by Council to fill the newly vacated seat of Sam Saxton, with his term ending in 2026. However Nichols choose to stay in the seat where she has been temporarily filling the vacancy since September 24th, so Ensunsa took the empty seat formerly held by Council Member Devyn Rosner, who chose not to run again. Town Manager Jim Ferguson explained there really aren’t assigned seating.

Quartzsite Town Council consists of seven non-partisan elected ofﬁcers who serve four-year staggered terms. The Quartzsite mayor is elected separately.

The Primary Election was held August 6, 2024. Incumbent Mayor Norm Simpson ran unopposed and won his seat. Three seats for Town Council were open: Council Members Starr BearCat and Karey Amon won their seats along with ﬁrst time candidate Nancy Nichols. All three also ran unopposed, so there was no need for an election in the November 5th General Election.

Quartzsite Mayor Norm Simpson, Council Members Starr BearCat, Karey Amon, and Nancy Nichols were elected for 4-year terms ending in 2028.

Quartzsite Council Member Gary Ensunsa was appointed to ﬁll vacant seat until 2026.

Quartzsite Council Members Loretta Warner and Lynda Goldberg will also be open in 2026.

Quartzsite Town Council meets regularly on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:00pm at Town Hall, located at 465 N. Plymouth Ave. Agendas and Minutes of all the meetings are available online at www.QuartzsiteAZ.org. 928-927-4333.

Left to Right: Council Members Nancy Nichols, Gary Ensunsa, Karey

Paw Spa Grooming Ribbon Cutting held Dec. 9

On December 9, 2024 the Quartzsite Business League in conjunction with the Quartzsite Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Paw Spa Grooming, to celebrate their grand opening.

Local community members, pet lovers, and business representatives gathered to tour the newly opened grooming facility located at 735 W Cowell, Quartzsite and meet the friendly staff.

The event highlighted Paw Spa Grooming’s dedication to providing top-notch care and pampering for pets in the community. A recent addition to their services, overnight boarding, was announced at this event. All your pet grooming needs can be met by scheduling at 928662-7935. Your “best friend” will thank you for the gentle, stress-free environment of PAW SPA GROOMING.

Quartzsite Salvation Army Santa Event

SATURDAY,

DECEMBER 21, 2024

9:00am to 1:00pm

PICTURES WITH SANTA Toy Assortment Gifts from Santa’s Elves!!

We are asking parents to drive to this event, STAY IN YOUR VEHICLE. Wait until Santa’s elves ask you to get out and then children can come sit with Santa for picture taking. The children then will be escorted by TSA ELVES to Santa’s Workshop Tables full of toys!

Healthy Families Child & Family Resources will have a table, too.

101 S. Moon Mountain Ave. 928-927-3636 or 360-921-7571

As always adults who want a photo can sit for a picture, too. We are all big kids, aren’t we?

The Readers Oasis Bookstore will be hosting. A concert with Almost Willie on Dec 18 at 6 pm Tickets available at store he will also be playing ecery wedbesday from then until the end of the season. Admission tickets are $10. Or $15. At the door. Be sure to wear warm clothing.

Almost Willie has been a Willie Nelson impersonator since 1985 and plays at various venues in Quartzsite during the winter season.

The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members. ~ Coretta Scott King

Fighting for Groundwater Rights

La Paz Supervisor Advocates for Groundwater Reform at Meeting with Governor Hobbs

La Paz County- On December 10, 2024, La Paz County Supervisor District

3 Holly Irwin represented the county at a key groundwater reform meeting with Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs. Accompanied by incoming La Paz County Administrator Stephanie McDowell, Irwin joined rural leaders, supervisors, and mayors from across the state to address pressing water resource issues.

Irwin, a staunch advocate for groundwater reform since 2015, expressed gratitude to Gov. Hobbs for prioritizing rural communities and natural resource protection. She stressed the prolonged struggle for water reform, reiterating, “At the end of the day, where is the compassion for people to survive?”

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs reafﬁrmed her commitment and support to getting a comprehensive groundwater reform passed by legislation in 2025. Rural leaders and lobbyists plan to collaborate on ground water reform for this upcoming legislative session, aiming to safeguard Arizona’s vital water resources.

State sues Fondomonte

AZ Attorney General Mayes Sues Fondomonte for Violating Public Nuisance Law Through Excessive Groundwater Pumping

December 10, 2024 PHOENIX — Attorney General Kris Mayes today announced a lawsuit against Fondomonte Arizona, LLC, alleging that the company’s excessive groundwater pumping in La Paz County violates Arizona’s public nuisance law by threatening the public health, safety, and infrastructure of communities in the Ranegras Plain Basin in La Paz County.

The complaint, ﬁled in Maricopa County Superior Court, alleges that Fondomonte’s actions have had widespread effects, including declining groundwater levels and escalating land subsidence – harming everyone reliant on the Basin for water. The complaint alleges that these actions constitute a public nuisance under Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-2917, deﬁned as any activity that injures health, obstructs property use, or interferes with the comfortable enjoyment of life or property by a community.

“Fondomonte’s unsustainable groundwater pumping has caused devastating consequences for the Ranegras Plain Basin, putting the health and future of the residents of La Paz County at risk,” said Attorney General Mayes. “Arizona law is clear: no company has the right to endanger an entire community’s health and safety for its own gain.”

The lawsuit alleges that since 2014, Fondomonte has extracted extraordinary amounts of groundwater—approximately 31,196 acre-feet in 2023

OHV safety course required

Arizonans can start taking an OHV safety course that will be required to register off-highway vehicles under a new state law.

Legislation passed this year requires that any person who is purchasing the decal required for operation of an off-highway vehicle (OHV) in Arizona must complete a basic education course before purchase.

The free course, created by Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD), will include content related to the safe operations of these vehicles. The educational course consists of a 10-minute instructional video followed by 20 multiple-choice questions. This course will be required one time for at least one of the OHV owners prior to vehicle registrations or renewals between Jan. 1, 2025, and June 1, 2027.

The Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division and AZGFD are partnering to offer

alone—to grow water-intensive alfalfa for export to Saudi Arabia. For comparison, one-acre foot can supply water to three single-family homes for an entire year. This excessive pumping has signiﬁcantly accelerated the depletion of the Basin’s aquifer.

The State is seeking a court order to declare Fondomonte’s activities a public nuisance, enjoin the company from further excessive groundwater pumping, and require the establishment of an abatement fund.

this safety course online. Arizona residents will be able to complete the course through AZMVDNOW.gov, the online portal for motor vehicle services in Arizona as well as MVD ofﬁce locations across the state.

Non-residents will be able to take the course online at AZGFD.gov starting later this month.

The 2025 and beyond OHV decals placed on the vehicle will indicate to law enforcement that the owner has successfully completed the course and the vehicle is legally registered.

If a business has OHVs registered to it, a representative from the business will need to take the course on the business’ AZ MVD Now account.

The MVD hosted course is being provided at no cost to Arizona residents by signing into your AZMVDNow account. For additional information about this new course, please visit azdot.gov/mvd/OHV

DESERT MESSENGER

Founded by Walt Akin October 1, 2004

P.O. Box 3185

Quartzsite, AZ 85359

PUBLISHED ONCE/MONTH ON THE 3 RD WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH

OWNER/EDITOR/PUBLISHER

GRAPHIC DESIGN/ AP AR MARKETING EXECUTIVE/CLASSIFIEDS Shanana “Rain” Golden-Bear

CONTRIBU TING PHOT OGRAPHER Starr BearCat

N AME PLATE DESIGN Paul Winer

www.DesertMessenger.com www.DesertMessengerOnline.com

Opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the Desert Messenger.

LIKE US on Facebook.com/ DesertMessengerNews

FOLLOW on X (Twitter) @QuartzsiteRain

EDITORIAL

By Shanana “Rain” Golden-Bear

QUARTZSITE ROCKS!

“May the joy of the season smile upon you... with some giggles, too!” ~Rain

Happy Christmahannukwanzadan!

I think that covers everybody! Winter Solstice is Friday. December 21st. Christmas and the New Year are just around the corner! The holidays can be stressful for some of us. And if you know me, I’m the ﬁnd-somethingto-be-grateful-about gal. Some days are harder than others, but I know you can ﬁnd something, somewhere if you look.

During my Poi Classes each Monday, we giggle a lot, as we swing poi (socks with rice for weights) in sync to good ‘ol Rock & Roll music. Giggling just cheers me up and I feel better. There’s a lot of medical research that supports the fact that laughter releases endorphins that can help reduce pain, boost immunity, improve memory, strengthen the heart and lessen anxiety.

LETTERS TO EDITOR POLICY

Desert Messenger encourages letters from its readers. Letters should be no longer than 300 words, and may be edited for grammar, content and length. OPINIONS EXPRESSED HEREIN DO NOT NECESSARILY REPRESENT THOSE OF THE DESERT MESSENGER. We invite you to not only see a problem, but search for the solution to share with the community, keeping the benefit of all in mind.

Letters considered libelous, in poor taste, on a personal issue, mean spirited or dominated by Scripture quotes will not be published. Third party letters will not be accepted.

To avoid confusion over people with common or similar names, writers must provide a full name and indicate the name they are known by. Writers must provide a full street address and phone number. Rvers can provide the location of park/BLM land, etc. Street addresses will not be published. Phone numbers are for verification only and will not be printed.

Send letters to: Desert Messenger, P.O. Box 3185, Quartzsite, AZ 85359 or E-mail to: Editor@DesertMessenger.com 928-916-4235

We are surrounded by negativity, fear-based articles online and in even in print using trigger phrases. It seems some folks want us to be fearful. Yes, recent news can be disturbing. We are constantly told how scary our world is. But what is within our ability to change? Can you ﬁnd something to laugh about? Try it...

According to Ros Ben-Moshe, who is an actual laughter therapist and founder of Laugh Life well-being programs, “Laughter is an amazing healer - one of those magical inner resources that enhances our mental, social, emotional, physical and even spiritual well-being.”

You’re probably thinking, oh, there she goes again... on another happy tangent. Well, it’s that time of year some folks work hard and enjoy giving to others. I’ve often been accused of not living in reality when I focus on being positive. Well, heck, that’s like telling someone enjoying a peaceful walk in the woods there’s bad news on television, so they should be all upset. And there’s plenty to be upset

about these days, right? But...can we just enjoy our walk in the woods for a moment? Maybe we just need recharing to handle whatever the future brings. I’ve had enough of that negativity to last a lifetime, so I will keep choosing to do things differently. Yes, there may be jackasses in high positions of government, but that does not dictate that you or I have to be jackasses! You and I have the right to be happy, too!

We are taught the major religions share core values like caring for family, being truthful, and treating others with kindness, regardless of their speciﬁc practices or beliefs. So, what if we make some goals for the coming year: Let us accept each other for who they are, celebrate our differences, enjoy learning about different cultures, treat each other as we would want to be treated, be grateful for every day we’re alive, reach out to those in need-no matter what they look like. Love life; make mistakes - for that means we’re doing something new. Treat each other with kindness and Respect. Bring the Best of who we are wherever we go; share our abundance with others (even if it’s just a smile), and who knows, we might bring peace to the world. Here’s a big smile wishing you and your loved ones a grateful holiday season. You’ve got this!

Care Group

Are you struggling alone with depression? Do your thoughts carry you to scary places? Have you lost someone and are wrestling with their absence? Is the strain of world events making you feel closed-off? Join a group that desires to help carry your burdens. Mondays at 1pm beginning Nov. 4th. Where: Arise Alliance Church, 720 W. Desert Vista St. Contact Lucy for more details. 928-8427275. Finger food provided. Don’t walk through this world alone.

December 18, 2024 DesertMessenger.com

Letters

to the

EDITOR

represent those of the Desert Messenger News.

THANKS FOR THE LIVE FEED

Hello Readers, how many of you have tried Spinning Poi at the Senior Center (Mondays, 10:30 a.m.)? It has nothing to do with stationary bikes, or ﬁsh. Think more like a slightly weighted ball at the end of a cord (or in Quartzsite, a knee high sock with a bag of rice in the toe part). And then, imagine “twirling” your poi sock in many different ways. It’s very, very fun!

Poi Spinning is also very good for strengthening grip, increasing balance, and improving cognitive function. Mostly though, it’s fun! I love the class, and have been going every week for almost an entire year. Sadly, I was going to have to miss today’s class because I needed to stay home. I told our instructor that I would have to miss the class. She knows how much I love it, and she really stepped up to help me! She offered to do a live stream on Facebook of today’s class so I could participate from home! It was such a kind and generous offer and I was so grateful!

So, today’s class has just ﬁnished, and I DID get to participate from home. And it was amazing!

My thanks to the Senior Center for providing the space, and also to our wonderful instructor for being so resourceful, helpful and kind!

Come try the class! I think you’ll probably love it too!

Thank you,

Beth Gilmore Quartzsite, AZ

CHRISTMAS PARADE THANKS

To all parade participants, all of the planners, trafﬁc control, registration, parking, judging, announcing, community center volunteers, town ofﬁcials and the Town of Quartzsite, we say, thank you for a job well done. We could never have had such a large and successful event without your help.

On behalf of everyone at the Quartzsite Chamber of Commerce, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your participation in the “Shining Bright in Quartzsite” Christmas Parade.

Your creativity, enthusiasm, and dedication truly made this event spectacular. Watching your incredible entries bring joy and smiles to our community—young and old alike—was the perfect highlight to a wonderful day.

Both the spectators and the Chamber were absolutely thrilled by the amazing displays, ﬂoats, and festive spirit you brought to the parade. It was a beautiful celebration of our town, made possible by your hard work and efforts. You deserve full credit for helping all of us “Shine Bright in Quartzsite” and for making this year’s parade such a success.

We would like to offer a special thank you, to the Arizona Sunriders for their phenomenal club participation and their beautiful ﬂoat. You guys and gals are amazing!

Bonnie Behrens was and still is the Queen of enthusiasm and the one person that really motivated the rest of us to do our best and to make this parade a big one. Thank you Bonnie!

We hope everyone enjoyed being part of the Christmas Parade as much as we enjoyed hosting you. Thank you for creating unforgettable memories for our community, and we hope to see you back next year!

Wishing you a joyful holiday season, a very Merry Christmas, and a prosperous New Year!

Warmest regards,

Quartzsite Chamber of Commerce

Hi Jolly Daze Parade new route

Quartzsite, AZ - The Quartzsite Chamber of Commerce announded the Annual Hi Jolly Parade is planned for Saturday, January 11th, 2025. The new route is along Moon Mountain Ave. Lineup is on W. Quail Trail St near the Quartzsite Elementary School starting at 8:30am. The parade starts at 10:00am sharp. Parade route is east on Quail Trail, south on Moon Mountain Ave, ending at the Camelpalooza 2025, near the Hagely General Store Adobe on the corner of Moon Mountain Ave and Main Street. The Quartzsite Chamber of Commerce invites everyone to be part of the fun. The Theme this year is “Camels Rock” So get your party hats on and come out and enjoy the day! Gather your camels, ﬂoats, pets, bikes, dance & music groups, classic cars, off -road vehicles, bicycles, etc. and make this a great parade! This is a wonderful opportunity for businesses to show off too! And the entry is FREE! All groups, organizations, businesses, individuals, are encouraged to participate.

Chamber President Larry Lord said, “This is a fairly short parade that should move quickly. We want to be considerate of the neighborhood. Trafﬁc control on Moon Mountain Ave will cause a short imposition for some residents or businesses as the parade passes by. A route map with designated parking areas will be published soon.

Desert Messenger is reminding spectators that according to Town Code §72.05 and ARS 28-873 it is illegal to park on public sidewalks. Parade entry forms are available at the Quartzsite Chamber of Commerce ofﬁce and Visitor Center located at 79 W. Main Street, across from the street from the Quartzsite Post Ofﬁce Monday thru Friday 8am-5pm. For more information go to the www.QZcoc.org website, email quartzsitecc@gmail.com or call the chamber at 928-927-5200.

9am-12 noon Mon-Fri Membership is $10 235 E. Ironwood Quartzsite

DECEMBER

Dec. 18 Food Handlers Class

Dec. 19- QRGMC/QIA Christmas Dinner

Dec. 20, 27 Bingo

Dec. 22 - John Denver Tribute 6pm

Dec. 25- Closed for Christmas

Dec. 26 QRGMC Meeting (Rock Club) Dec. 31 Sky Hawk New Yearʼs Dance

JANUARY

Jan. 2, 9, 23, 30 QRGMC Meeting (Rock Club)

Jan. 3, 10, 24, 31 Bingo Jan. 4 Craft Faire & Yard Sale

Jan. 6- QIA Board Meeting Jan. 7 Ladies Luncheon

Jan. 7- QIA Membership Meeting Jan. 8 Off-Road Meet & Greet 10am Metal Detectors Club 7pm

Jan. 8 Food Handlers Class

Jan. 15-19 POW WOW!

Jan. 23 Ukulele Concert

Jan. 29 Food Handlers Class

Jan. 30 All volunteer Dinner

ACTIVITIES

Exercise Mon/Wed/Fri @8:30am Desert Singles Friday 10am Wood Carving Wed 1pm

Check out our website for details QIAARIZONA.ORG 928-927-6325 Subject to change

‘TIS THE SEASON

By Alex Taft

DesertMessenger.com

Gardening with Dennis

There are lots of plants and trees that are associated with the Christmas season. Many of them do not grow here. That said, many who live here and did not grow up here either, have imprinted in their experience of Christmas, plants such as holly, mistletoe, pine trees, Christmas cactus and poinsettias. All of these plants appear in or just outside grocery and box stores at this time of year. Some versions of the Christmas plants can grow here and are adaptable to this desert climate.

Pine trees – the only two recommended are in the low water use category: the Afghan Pine (Pinus eldarica) from Afghanistan and the

Aleppo Pine (Pinus halepensis) from the Mediterranean. They both grow to about ﬁfty feet tall and thirty feet in branch spread and are fast growing. When deciding where to plant them, consider their mature size. They are a dark evergreen and have brown cones.

Poinsettias – (Euphorbia pulcherrima). Those who like them always try to coax them into another blooming season. It’s possible but requires patience. They can grow in our region but not without extraordinary care. They like humidity. That is in scarce supply here. Their roots can easily drown, so do not water them until their soil is dry. All Euphorbias, and there are

over two hundred varieties, from tiny plants to enormous trees, including poinsettias, are toxic. They have a latex sap that is poisonous. Poinsettias do not like temperatures much below 50 degrees which is why they can, with attention, grow here.

December 18, 2024

time part of old pharmacopoeia as a treatment for cancer and other insidious diseases. The Aleppo Pine was the Greek’s ﬁrst Christmas tree. Holly was always considered a protective plant in ancient culture and references to it can be found in many places.

Why you need dental insurance in retirement.

Medicare doesn’t pay for dental care.1

As good as Medicare is, it was never meant to cover everything. If you want protection, you need to purchase individual insurance.

Early detection can prevent small problems from becoming expensive ones. The best way to avoid large dental bills is preventive care. Experts recommend checkups twice a year.

Previous dental work can wear out. Your odds of having a dental problem only go up as you age.2

Treatment is expensive — especially the services people over 50 often need.

Unexpected bills, like $190 for a filling, or $1,213 for a crown3 can be a real burden, especially if you’re on a fixed income.

like temperatures much below 50 which is can, with attenae) does not grow here. You can it a Christmas Cactus x is a succulent and most a house can

Holly (Ilex aquiloliaceae) does not grow here. You can order it online in a container and then make it an indoor plant.

Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera x buckleyi) is a perennial succulent and most commonly a house plant. They can grow successfully here with a minimum of attention, indoors. They bloom in the fall and winter.

When researching these articles, I am reminded that gardening, planting and propagating are not just science. They are subjects that are heavily inﬂuenced by experience that is passed down from one gardener to the next. Gardening is art and lore, in addition to science, and therefore one of the best paths to humility. You can do exactly what one book says and experience failure, only to ﬁnd out that another book and author recommends something entirely different. Failure is a good teacher because you can learn something that neither book mentioned.

Mistletoe (Viscum album) is the standard mistletoe that everyone thinks of with light green leaves and white berries. That mistletoe does not grow here, but the desert has its own version. Dwarf mistletoes (Arceuthobium species) are considered pests that kill trees, however they are also habitats for the spotted owl. `We can see mistletoe (Phoradendron californicum) in mesquite and palo verde trees where they are parasitic because they work their way into the vascular system of the tree. They debilitate the tree but do not kill it. Mistletoes’ presence in a tree can however, weaken it so that it so it is susceptible to bug infestations, or less able to sustain drought. Also, a weakened tree is more likely to be susceptible to a mistletoe plant. The lore of all these plants that tie them to the Christmas season varies by where they grow and the culture they are tied to. In the times of the Druids, mistletoe growing in an oak tree represented healing and protection and was ceremonially cut from the tree during the winter solstice and branches were divided and distributed to everyone, to be hung in their homes for protection. Mistletoe was at one

In researching this article, I discovered one book that stated only one type of pine grows in our area. Another book named another type of pine and did not even mention the other pine. This is the stuff that can make anyone trying to ﬁgure of what will work, nuts. My solution was to include both types of pine trees. Dennis’s notes were ﬁlled with comments on the contradictory nature of gardening guides. It is the nature of the beast. That is perhaps one reason why he documented everything. He could go back in his notes and review what he planted and what grew well, what grew very well and what died, so he could determine what he could try next with the best results. Gardening books are still very helpful, because they give us a starting point to ask better questions and experience better gardening results. Enjoy the season.

Note: for those who did not know Dennis, he was a part-time employee of the town parks department, a Master Gardener since 1985 and instructor for the Master Gardener Class. He passed away in 2018.

QES terminated contract with Superintendent

By Shanana Rain Golden-Bear

During the meeting of Wednesday, November 20th, 2024 Quartzsite Elementary School (QES) District #4 Governing Board unanimously cancelled the contract with Superintendent Jeff Spaletta. No explanation was given to the public. He was given 30 days notice and assigned to duties at home.

The board was hodling executive sessions, but tabled the rest of the agenda due to an apparent miscommunication with AWC staff regarding the length of time reserved for the meeting. AWC Staff told the public attending that the room was only reserved until 8pm. The meeting started at 6pm and had an extremely long agenda including almost 20 executive sessions. After learning of the time constraint, the board adjourned the meeting and tabled the remainder of the items tabled until the next meeting.

Desert Messenger has received a photo and short video showing Dr. Spaletta driving a bus on I-10 while on his phone. Evidently they were taken Tuesday, November 19, the day before the meeting.

In an Open Letter to the Community from Kelly Simpson, a Quartzsite parent, who also is a QES staff member, stated she is concerned for the safety of her son and other students on board. (Desert Messenger received the letter late November 21st and posted it on Desert Messenger News Facebook Page)

In an interview after Wednesday’s meeting, Simpson showed the photo to Desert Messenger. She explained the students were headed to Wenden for a basketball game. The photo and video clearly show Mr. Spaletta does not have his hands on the steer-

ing wheel, holding his phone. Kelly said, “My son was on that bus as well as students I am tasked with taking care of! I am horriﬁed!”

She said there were 14 students and no other adults on the bus. “I am relieved everyone was okay and I tracked my son’s location until he was safe. I am concerned with retaliation, but when someone sees something, you have to say something.”

Under Arizona’s hands-free law, drivers can be subject to civil penalties and fines. The first violation will result in a fine between $75 and $149 and subsequent violations can be as much as $250, plus applicable surcharges.

And, according to the National Highway Trafﬁc Safety Administration, sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds. If you’re traveling at 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of a football ﬁeld with your eyes closed.

After the meeting, parents and staff expressed their anger at the board in support of the Superintendent. Desert Messenger reached out to Dr. Spaletta for comment, but the call was not taken and the voice mail was not set up. Email was then sent to Dr. Spaletta, but no response as of yet.

Video of the meeting is online at https://youtu.be/l2pWTY2RLVs?si =i2euykeA59L4IPvO

Photos, video and Simpson’s letter provided to Desert Messenger are online at https://www.facebook. com/share/p/15LrHtafKj/.

Senior Center Craft Fair & Yard Sale

The Quartzsite Senior Center has decided to return to 2 separate days for the Yard Sale/Retail Items and the Craft Fair, because of the continued requests for tables, and this will offer our shoppers more room to park. We have decided to do the Yard Sale/Retail Items on the 2nd Saturday of the month. The Hand Craft Fair will continue to be held on the 3rd Saturday of the month, with the next one on December 21, 2024.

YARD SALE is the 2nd Saturday of the month. January 11th!

CRAFT FAIR is 3rd Saturday of the month. December 21st.

Quartzsite Senior Center Memberships are $10. Tables are $5 cash only! Call to secure your table for the season 725-203-8447. Set up starts at 7am on the day of the craft fair. Indoor and Outdoor tables available. This will be our best season EVER!

Senior Center is located at 40 S. Moon Mt. Quartzsite. Phone number is 928-927- 6496.

Tourism Expo planned Jan. 8th

La Paz Regional Tourism Team and BlueWater Resort-Casino host the 2025 Tourism Expo in Parker, Az. Parker, AZ This premier event will be held on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, from 10am-3pm at the BlueWater Resort & Casino, and will showcase the best of our region’s tourism, hospitality, and recreation opportunities. BlueWater is located at 11300 Resort Dr., Parker. Discover the best of La Paz County at the Tourism Expo! Join us for a day of exploration, where attendees can dive into the rich culture, vibrant history, and natural beauty that make this region unique. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, the Expo offers something for everyone. Meet with representatives from local attractions, hotels, restaurants, and outdoor adventure companies to learn more about what our county has to offer. Enjoy live demonstrations, sample local cuisine, and get insider tips on the hidden gems of La Paz County. This event is your gateway to planning the perfect getaway or enhancing your hometown experience. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect, discover, and celebrate all that La Paz County has to offer! For an application contact ysanchez@bluewaterfun.com.

Food Bank updates

Roberto Salas, Managing Director

As 2024 draws to a close, the Quartzsite Food Bank celebrates a year of transformative growth, community collaboration, and unwavering dedication to serving those in need. Thanks to the collective efforts of volunteers, donors, and community partners, the food bank has expanded its reach and implemented innovative strategies to better serve the residents of Quartzsite and surrounding areas.

This year brought several changes to improve service for the food bank’s clients. Dedicated check-in lines were introduced for established clients, new clients, and Camel Express users, streamlining operations and reducing wait times.

Efforts to maintain a steady supply of goods have been bolstered by bi-weekly food pickups in Phoenix, made possible through the coordination of volunteers and the use of rented U-Haul trucks from Best Auto. These efforts were further strengthened by a generous donation of a forklift by the Salas family, which has signiﬁcantly improved the

Quartzsite ART GUILD meets on the SECOND THURSDAY of the month November thru March 12:30pm - 2:30pm at the

MOUNTAIN QUAIL RV PARK CLUB HOUSE

490 N. Moon Mountain Ave.

Quartzsite, Arizona

We Strive to Bring Artistic People Together to:

• Meet new friends

• Improve & grow artistically

• Learn new techniques

• Provide Fine Art Shows as Fundraisers

Annual Membership is only $10

All Classes are free for members.

efﬁciency of loading and unloading supplies.

In collaboration with the Regional Center for Border Health, the food bank hosted a Mobile Clinic this year, offering vital healthcare services to the community. These types of partnerships continue to expand the food bank’s role as a resource hub for local residents.

November’s Turkey Drive was a standout event of the year, with overwhelming support from the community to help families with children. Funds raised provided turkeys for both Thanksgiving and Christmas, ensuring that local families could celebrate the holidays with special meals.

Earlier in the year, the food bank beneﬁted from the donation of a van from La Paz County Sherriff’s Dept. The van has been instrumental in ensuring reliable transportation for essential homebound deliveries and our pop up Foodbank’s in Cibola, Ehrenberg and Bouse.

As the food bank continues to meet the growing needs of the community, support from volunteers, donors, and programs like the AZ Tax Credit remains critical. Beyond food distribution, the organization serves as a vital lifeline, delivering essentials to clients and providing support to homebound individuals throughout the region.

The achievements of 2024 reﬂect the power of collective action and community spirit. With the support of its dedicated team and generous community, the Quartzsite Food Bank looks to the future with a steadfast mission: ensuring that no one in the community goes without.

We are located at 40 N Moon Mountain Rd in Quartzsite. Our current hours of operation are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7 AM to 11 AM.

Please remember to bring a picture ID when signing up for assistance. Additionally, the Yuma Community Food Bank provides Government, TEFAP & Senior boxes at Arizona Western College, 695 Kofa Ave, on the1st and 3rd Mondays of the month. Check for updates at Yumafoodbank.org or call 928-343-1243. The Quartzsite Transit bus service offers complimentary rides to the food bank for people 60 and over. For more information, call 928-9274333, option 3.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our supporters and hard-working volunteers. If you’re interested in joining our dedicated team, please arrive 30 minutes before opening hours on Tuesdays or Thursdays, enter through the back gate, and ask for Roberto. For more information, call 928-662-7000. Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our cause.

We deeply appreciate the contributions from our community members and local organizations, as they play a crucial role in sustaining our operations. Your generosity helps us not only survive but thrive, especially during challenging times. As a privately owned nonproﬁt, we rely entirely on donations to fulﬁll our mission of supporting the Quartzsite, La Paz County community.

There are various ways to support us: consider donating money, a car or RV, leaving a gift in your will, or designating us as a beneﬁciary for your retirement accounts or stock investments. You can also utilize the AZ Tax Credit program, which allows you to redirect up to $938 to us instead of paying your AZ taxes. Also we are a IRS 501c3 tax write-off. Please make checks out to: FQFB, PO Box 4051, Quartzsite, AZ 85359. To learn more or to make a donation, visit QuartzsiteFoodBank.com.

Heliogen update

At the La Paz County Board of Supervisors meeting on Monday, December 16th, Supervisor Duce Minor announced that Heliogen - had withdrawn their application for a rezoning of 3,343 acres they are leasing from BLM (Bureau of Land Management) near Bouse, Arizona.

This Heliogen SR2 LLC. - *Brenda Solar Energy Project is 3,343 acres of BLM land on Avenue 42E between Hwy 72 & Hwy 60. This would be a Concentrated Solar Thermal Power Plant (CTP/CSP) which means: 27 – 300 foot receivers (Towers) Fields of heliostats (Mirrors) concentrating sunlight onto the receiver towers Central Hub for Steam generation Turbines, BANKS of molten salt tanks.

Denise Beasley of Neighbors United Against Radical Solar stated in an email to Desert Messenger, “There are huge challenges with the CTP/ CSP ﬂedgling technology including massive molten salt leaks, incineration of local bird populations, and devastation of invaluable carbon sequestering desert ﬂora.”

Opponents spoke against the conditional Use Permit at both the Planning and Zoning and Supervisor Meetings. La Paz County Planning & Zoning Commission voted to recommend denial of Heliogen’s request at their December 5th meeting. Heliogen withdrew the application on Thursday, December. 12.

“Positive anything is better than negative nothing.” ~ Elbert Hubbard

The Salvation Army updates

By Lee-Ann Henle, Manager

This week before Christmas we are still dashing around getting ready for our Santa Event on Saturday the 21st and preparing and delivering our Angel Tree packages. Details for Saturday’s event are on our ﬂyer. Elf helpers are always appreciated. Come see me if you can help Friday with set up and or Saturday at the event.

We are so very thankful to all those who donated toys around town and here at the store. A special humongous delivery is coming Tuesday from Barb’s patrons at Beer Belly’sI’ve seen some of these amazing gifts. They are truly a blessing for our local kiddos.

We are so thankful to our many Angel Tree shoppers that earned their wings by shopping for those special needs Angel Tree children. We certainly couldn’t do all we do without the generous support of so many in our caring community. Our jubilant Elf Jan is organizing packages and wrapping these gifts with help from Sandi and Eileen2. The Angel Tree packages will be delivered and or picked up at the Salvation Army. Quartzsite Fire and Police will assist as available. May this be a memorable Christmas to all.

Items you might be looking for; a nice smaller wooden kitchen table and four chairs, a heavy-duty bike rack, camel theme ornaments, lots of half priced fabric and frames, and all cookbooks are $1.00.

Looking for a recycle, reuse bag? We have an all-cotton shopping tote made by Crystal of Chaotic Creations for only $5.00. Fundraiser for our red Kettle Campaign. All funds stay local for Quartzsite Outreach. See ﬂyer. Please watch our postings on Facebook for weekly sales and announcements. I try and post on our Salvation Army Thrift Store Group, as well as Quartzsite Chatter, What’s

Up Quartzsite Arizona Group and Quartzsite Support Local Businesses Group. We have had half-price sales in different departments. Never know what will be on sale. Remember a red “X” on any price sticker is a half-priced item.

If a price tag has been removed, we are not able to sell the item.

We continue to have free shoes, socks, hats and miscellaneous items out front of the store and a free clothing rack and food available inside.

Something new for January 2025.

We will be open on Saturday, January 11th, regular hours, 9am to 1pm. You can watch the Camel Parade come down Moon Mountain Avenue and shop on this celebration day, too. Lots of Camel Palooza activities at the Adobe Property.

We will be closed to shopping on Tuesday, December 24th, BUT, if you have a last-minute need, call, and we can do a curbside cash sale. We will be working in the building.

We will be closed on Wednesday, December 25th for Christmas.

Open Thursday, December 26th, regular hours.

Closed New Years Day, Wednesday, January 1st, 2025.

“Family isn’t always blood, it’s the people in your life who want you in theirs: the ones who accept you for who you are, the ones who would do anything to see you smile and who love you no matter what.”

~ Maya Angelou

May everyone be with your “family” this Christmas season.

Be the reason with all your friends and family.

Merry Christmas to all.

Love from Quartzsite Salvation Army family. #SalArmyLoveBeyond

Quartzsite Salvation Army Thrift Store & Service Center

101 South Moon Mountain Avenue Store 928-927-3636

Cell 360-921-7571

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE…. DONATIONS DURING OPEN HOURS ONLY

Phone for special large donation arrangements.

SHOPPING DAYS:

Tuesday Wednesday Thursday WINTER SHOPPING HOURS: 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Call for Special Needs on other days. THANK YOU!

Quartzsite Elementary School District #4

November Students of the Month

Kindergarten - Uriel Sanchez

1st Grade - Luna Lowery and Armani Fucci

2nd Grade - Christina Jones

3rd Grade - Giannah Rodriguez and Emma Ledesma

4th Grade - Yulissa Ochoa and Jayce Edwards

5th Grade - Julia Sanchez- Hawkins and Jared Zavala Molina

6th Grade - Jebadijah Del Rial

7th Grade - Misha Sato and Jayden Torres

8th Grade - Luis Rascon

BINGO AT QUARTZSITE SENIOR CENTER EVERY WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY NIGHTS

Doors Open @ 5pm

Early Bird Bingo @ 6:30

Sales End at 6:15 and Bingo Starts @ 7pm

Read Desert Messenger online!

Sign up for free email alerts when the Desert Messenger becomes available online! Join thousands reading the paper online at: www.DesertMessenger.com

Blood Donor Month

Honoring Lifesavers like You During National Blood Donor Month

January is National Blood Donor Month, a chance to recognize not only our incredible donors, but our blood drive coordinators for the essential role you play in helping maintain a healthy, steady blood supply. Established in 1970, National Blood Donor Month was created to honor the generous donors who make it possible to save lives through blood donation. January was chosen for this observance because it’s a time when blood donations typically decline due to the holidays and winter weather, yet the need for blood remains constant.

Without your dedication to blood drives, many patients would not receive the lifesaving transfusions they so depend on.

National Blood Donor Month bees lasting impact on countless lives. Your partnership and commitment are what enable us to continue delivering hope and healing to those in need.

Make appointments and access blood donation info wherever you go.

WHAT DOES THE WORLD SAY? WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

PAID ADVERTISEMENT ~ GRATITUDE ~

What does the World say about GRATITUDE?

According to A November 21, 2024 Pew Research Center study, it’s common for Americans to say grace or express gratitude at Thanksgiving dinner. Around twothirds of U.S. adults say someone at their dinner typically says a prayer or blessing (65%) or says things they are thankful for (69%). And a majority of Americans (56%) say someone at their Thanksgiving dinner typically does both of these things. Majorities across religious groups also say someone at their Thanksgiving dinner typically expresses gratitude. Many religiously unaffiliated Americans say this, too: 59% of those whose religion is “nothing in particular,” along with 61% of agnostics and 48% of atheists, say someone at their dinner typically says things they are thankful for.

What does the Bible say about GRATITUDE?

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Rejoice always; (17) pray without ceasing; (18) in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. Psalm 9:1-2 I will give thanks to the LORD with all my heart; I will tell of all Your wonders. (2) I will be glad and exult in You; I will sing praise to Your name, O Most High. 1 Chronicles 16:34 O give thanks to the LORD, for He is good; For His lovingkindness is everlasting.

Colossians 3:17 Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.

Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. (7) And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Dave Fiddament “Dave the Bible Reader”

The history behind National Blood Donor Month reminds us why we are here — raising awareness about the importance of blood donation and encouraging people to donate, especially during critical times.

Health Clinics

La Paz Regional Hospital & Clinics will hold FREE Community Health Fairs around the county. There will be health screenings to include blood pressure, cholesterol/ glucose, ﬂu shots, advance directives, Oximetry and much more!

Salome: Thursday, January 9, 2025 9am-12pm at the Centennial Community Center, 69725 Centennial Park Rd.

Bouse: Friday, February 14, 2025 8am-11am at Bouse Booster Hall, 27747 Frame Ave.

Parker: Community Health Expo, Saturday, April 5, 2025 9am-12pm at Western Park, Riverside Drive & Desert Ave.

For more information call 928-575-6914.

Quartzsite’s next blood drive, sponsored by the Quartzsite GFWC Women’s Club, is Monday January 27, 2025 at the Quartzsite Senior Center, 40 S Moon Mountain. 9am to 2pm. Call Vitalant at 877-258-4825 to make an appointment at location L1250 or go online at donors.Vitalant. org. Walk-ins are always welcome.

Shop Local group

By Becky Johnstone

The Quartzsite Shop Local Facebook Group was originally started to let people know which stores were open in Quartzsite during the summer months along with hosting our Shop Small Business Bingo. It is still here to let people know about new businesses opening, restaurant specials and events in and around Quartzsite. Please post pictures of your business, location, hours open and what you have to offer. If you have an event that you would like to bring attention to, this is the place for your announcement. If you have questions or would like help putting your post together, please contact Becky@secesh.net or 208-6349304. There is no cost for posting or help. Please join the group if you are looking for this type of information. Thank you.

ACROSS FROM K & B at Tyson Wells

FLAGS OFF-ROAD TOOLS

YOUR SOURCE FOR ALL STARLINK mounts and accessories!

ATV FLAGS - 3 x 5 FLAGS

VENDOR FLAGS - RV FLAGS

LED WHIPS - ATV PARTS

GOGGLES - DUST MASKS

AUTO, ATV & RV TOOLS

TELESCOPIC FLAG POLES

7 DAYS / WEEK 9AM-5PM

WHY ARE PEOPLE AND CAMELS RAVING ABOUT THIS BOOK?

Readers are excited because they are presented with a fascinating and captivating story of camels and their role in the historical development of America and Arizona. Camels are thankful because the book talks about their evolutionary development as well as, their modern-day exploits and contributions to the transformation of the Country and Arizona.

W. Main Street, Quartzsite, AZ 85346 or Online @ qzcoc.org

State Trust land is not public land Desert

Here’s the small print: Items for sale under $500. Private Party Only. 1 per month. Yard/Garage/Craft Sales, Wanted, Give-a-ways, Free, Lost & Found, etc. (non-commercial)

For more information, contact Rain at 928-916-4235 or Email: Editor@DesertMessenger.com

Arizona Trust land is different from public land such as parks or National Forests, in that Trust Lands are managed by the Land Department to generate revenue for 13 specific beneficiaries. Today the Trust manages 9.3 million acres of land, and approximately 90 percent of the revenue generated from sales or leased supports the K-12 Education. The largest beneficiaries include the Common Schools (K-12) and Universities. A recreation permit is required for: hiking; horseback riding; picnicking; photography; bird watching; sightseeing; CAMPING or traveling on existing Trails over Trust Land. There are four different permits one can obtain. An Individual $15, Family $20, Small Group, $15 and Large Group.

RECREATIONAL CAMPING IS LIMITED TO NO MORE THAN 14 DAYS PER YEAR. Permits are available for purchase online ONLY at https://land.az.gov.

Saturday, January 25, 2025

Cost is $100 per dog.

Location: 55 1/2 St. Rainbow Acres, Quartzsite

For appointment call Jim 480-215-1776

www.ViperVoidance.com

PHONE NUMBERS

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY DIAL 911

Quartzsite Police Department

Administration: (928) 927-4644

La Paz County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce Administration: 928-669-6141 (Fax: 928-669-2008)

Dispatch: 928-669-2281 (Fax: 928-669-5823)

Civil: 928-669-6141

Records/Reports: 928-669-6141 x4011

Detention: 928-669-5816

Boating Safety: 928-667-4310

December 18, 2024 DesertMessenger.com

Shop Small Business

Saturday in Quartzsite was lots of fun!

Shop Small Business Saturday was a lot of fun in Quartzsite! Thank you to everyone who participated! There are so many unique small businesses owned by creative entrepreneurs who are doing what they love. Let’s show our support and continue to SHOP LOCAL! Thank you to all the businesses participating Saturday, November 30th, 2024!

• ALOTT Bargains, 1160 W. Main St.

• Burly’s Flags, 121 W. Kuehn St.

• Camel Camp Coffeehouse, 131 W. Main St.

• Coyote Fresh Foods, 410 E. Main St.

• K B Tools, 21 W. Kuehn St.

• Main Trading Post, 1170 W. Main St.

• Mountain Quail Cafe, 500 N. Moon Mountain Ave.

• Quartzsite Museum, 61 W. Main St.

• Q Town Treats, 425 E. Main St.

• Reader’s Oasis Bookstore, 690 E. Main St.

• Salvation Army, 101 S. Moon Mountain Ave.

• Scooters Cafe, 455 E. Main St.

• Santa’s Workshop/QIA, 235 E. Ironwood Ave.

• Snowbird Cafe, 205 W. Main St.

• Times Three Restaurant, 1265 W. Main St.

• Tyson Wells Game Store, 121 W. Kuehn St.

A SPECIAL THANKS to the Quartzsite businesses donating to the prize bags!

• ALOTT Bargains, 1160 W. Main St.

• Burly’s Flags, 121 W. Kuehn St.

• Camel Camp Coffeehouse, 131 W. Main St.

• K B Tools, 121 W. Kuehn St.

• Main Trading Post, 1170 W. Main St.

• Mountain Quail Cafe, 500 N. Moon Mountain Ave.

• Salvation Army, 101 S. Moon Mountain Ave.

• Tyson Wells Game Store, 121 W. Kuehn St.

Quartzsite Small Businesses ROCK! ~from Desert Messenger, AmEX Neighborhood Champion for Shop Small Business Saturday, 2024.

Transfer station on Winter hours

The Quartzsite Transfer Station is now on their WINTER hours. They are open Sunday thru Wednesday, 7:30am to 2:30pm. Dump your trash for free at the Transfer Station. Please cover your load. For more info call the Main landﬁll 928-916-1253 or Main ofﬁce at 928854-9152. The transfer station is located north of Town, just off Hwy. 95, near the Sewer Treatment Plant.

A reminder for our wonderful WINTER VISITORS: Please do NOT use Quartzsite business or private organization dumpsters in town. Dump your trash for free at the Transfer Station. Quartzsite Transfer Station is open Sunday thru Wednesday, 7:30am to 2:30pm. The transfer station is located north of Town, just off Hwy. 95, near the Sewer Treatment Plant. Please cover your load. Thank you. For more info call the Main landﬁll 928-916-1253 or Main ofﬁce at 928-854-9152.

• Birth •

• Anniversary

MARKET DAY AT QIA 235 E Ironwood in Quartzsite, behind the Main St Laundromat. Featuring the largest Craft Faire (100+ artisans) in LaPaz County & over an acre of Yard Sales. 3rd Saturday of the month. Nov. thru March. Yard Sales open at 8am. Craft Faire opens at 9am. Dining room serving homemade breakfast & lunch opens at 7:30am. 928-927-6325.

SENIOR

CENTER CRAFT FAIRE

3rd Saturday of every month. The next show is SATURDAY DEC. 21, 8am til 1pm.

YARD SALE 2nd Saturday of the month! 2 rooms indoors & outdoors.

Quartzsite Senior Center. 40 Moon Mountain Ave. Quartzsite. Questions? Call or text 208-484-1909.

BINGO @ DESERT GARDENS

RV PARK 1240 Acacia Road, Quartzsite. January and February. Tuesdays and Thursdays. Doors open at 5pm. Card Sales to 6:15 pm Games Start @ 6:30pm. $10 for set of 15 game sheets. $2 for Betty Boop Strip of 5 “Progressive $ in Cookie Jar & Gift Bag” Snowbirds are Wel

QUARTZSITE QUILT CLUB

meets every Tuesday from 8 - 3 at the Quartzsite Senior Center, 40 Moon Mountain Ave. Quilters of all skill levels are invited to join in the fun. Bring your projects to work on. Show & Tell of projects is held at 10 am.

CRAFT FAIRS AT 88 SHADES RV

park will be held the 2nd Saturday of each month November thru March. Time is 10am-2pm. No charge for Residents of the park. $5/table for non-residents. 575 W. Main St., Quartzsite. Contact Karol at 725203-8447 for more information.

ROCK PAINTING with Quartzsite Rocks! Help the group provide KINDNESS ROCKS and SMILES for our wonderful community and visitors next season. Please see us at the Senior Center every Thursday 9am –noon or call Cheri at 602-330-7536.

CRAFT MANIA ART CLASSES

10 to 15 classes every week.Contact me for information on Teaching or Class Schedule.FB @ Craft Mania Quartzsite / Kathy @ 503-318-1198.

KPIVA DOTS & ROCKS

Mandala Dot Painting Classes every week Located at the new Craft Mania Location. Contact me for information FB @ Kpiva Dots and Rocks/ Kathy @ 503-318-1198.

TOWN COUNCIL MEETINGS

Quartzsite Town Council meets the 2nd & 4th Tuesday at 7pm at Town Hall, 465 N. Plymouth Ave. Quartzsite. All meetings are open to the public. www.QuartzsiteAZ.org

TOWN MANAGER MEETINGS

The public is encouraged to attennd the monthly Quartzsite Town Manager’s Meetings, which will be held at 1:00pm on the Wednesday immediately following the FIRST Town Council Meeting of every month, usually the 2nd Wednesday of the month. Bring your questions and concerns. The meetings are held at the Quartzsite Library Meeting room, 465 N. Plymouth Ave. For more information contact Town Hall 928-927-4333.

TOWN HALL HOURS

Town of Quartzsite facilities is now on permanent 4-day work week hours. Town Hall including Quartzsite Library, will be open Monday through Thursday, 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Quartzsite Town Hall is located at 465 N. Plymouth Ave. For more details call 928-927-4333. Or visit www.QuartzsiteAZ.org.

QUARTZSITE PLANNING AND

ZONING Commission meets the THIRD Tuesday of each month at 5:00PM at Town Hall, 465 N Plymouth Ave. All meetings are open to the public. www.QuartzsiteAZ.org.

COUNTY SUPERVISORS

La Paz County Board of Supervisors are now Live streaming their meetings! Meetings are the ﬁrst and third Monday of each month, 10am. 1108 S Joshua. Parker, AZ. Check current and past videos at http://co.la-paz. az.us/587/Live-Stream-and-Archived-Meetings.

Tax Aide Volunteers wanted

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is the nation’s largest volunteer-based tax preparation service. In communities across the country, we help people with low to moderate income become more ﬁnancially resilient.

Quartzsite, Arizona is looking for compassionate and friendly people to join our volunteer team. We’ll provide training and support to help you learn new skills.

Quartzsite Tax-Aide volunteers’ days are Monday and Tuesday’s from 7:30 AM-1:00 PM starting in mid-January through April 15th. Tax-Aide volunteers will receive travel reimbursement at the end of the season. To learn about our volunteer opportunities, visit aarpfoundation.org/ TaxaideVolunteer.

UPCOMING EVENTS?

Are you planning a Quartzsite area event? Check for open dates before scheduling and LIST EVENTS FOR FREE at www.QuartzsiteCalendar. com It’s easy! Click “Submit Event” tab and just ﬁll in the details. (Sponsored by Desert Messenger News)

December 18, 2024 DesertMessenger.com

Poi Spinning for Seniors Classes

Poi is a ball on a cord (or in Quartzsite, it’s rice in sock) that you spin in circles around your body. Sound simple? It is! And it’s also super fun, affordable, and scientifically proven to help your brain and body feel amazing. It is believed that Poi originally came from the Maori of New Zealand. Today, poi continues to play an important role in Maoridom and across the globe as a form of performance, play, and fitness and now in Quartzsite, too! Last year, Quartzsite resident Shanana Rain Golden-Bear became qualified as a Poi For Seniors Certified SpinPoi Instructor from Dr. Kate Riegle van West from New Zealand.

Dr. Kate completed her PhD in the health beneﬁts of poi at the University of Auckland. Poi has the perfect mix of physical and cognitive elements to keep your brain and body engaged. It’s playful. It’s rhythmic. It’s challenging (yet achievable!) Oh, expect some giggles, too! And it’s backed by rigorous scientiﬁc evidence: a clinical trial found that after just one month of poi practice, participants improved their grip strength, balance, and attention.

Classes are held each Monday at 10:30am at Quartzsite Senior Center, 40 Moon Mountain Ave. Classes are donation based with $1 minimum to the Senior Center. Poi socks will be provided for your use. Sitting and standing movements will be taught. For more information visit www. QuartzsitePoi.com or call Rain at 928-916-4235.

AA Meetings

QUARTZSITE

SNOWBIRDS AA MEETING

Tues. & Friday 10am & 5:30pm

LIVING SOBER

Al-anon Welcome @ 5:30pm meeting Texas RV Park 205 W. Main St. (Showplace Lane)

BRENDA

Tues & Sat. 11am Black Rock RV Park, (behind clubhouse)

Non-Afﬁliated Meeting Rooms

“No Name” Alano club of Quartzsite, AZ is now ofﬁcially legal #04219582. PO Box 2145, Quartzsite,AZ 85346. Looking for donations & members to join.

Don 419-494-2690

ADOBE

HANDYMAN & PAINTING

• Painting

• Pressure Washing

• Wall Texturing

• Popcorn Ceiling Removal

• Landscaping

• Minor Plumbing

• Minor Electrical

• Minor Drywall Repair

• Roof Coating

• RV Repair RELIABLE, REASONABLE RATES

References Available CALL/TEXT 928-412-9642 (not a licensed contractor)

“Peace is

a daily, a weekly, a monthly process, gradually changing opinions, slowly eroding old barriers, quietly building new structures.”

—John F. Kennedy

“I’m here to spread a message of hope. Follow your heart. Don’t follow what you’ve been told you’re supposed to do.” ~J. Cole

BLM Long Term Visitor Area (LTVA) camping areas

The La Posa Long Term Visitor Area (LTVA) was created in 1983 by the BLM (Bureau of Land Management) to fulﬁll the needs of winter visitors and to protect the local desert ecosystem from overuse. The campground is approximately 11,400 acres in size, ﬂat landscape, sparsely vegetated with plants such as creosote bushes, palo verde trees, ironwood trees, mesquite trees and various species of cacti. La Posa LTVA offers solitude in a unique desert landscape and a variety of recreational opportunities such as hiking, wildlife viewing and rockhounding.

Facilities

10 ADA accessible vault toilets, 8 water faucets, dry dump station,

dump station with water, trash services, dance ﬂoor and ramada.

Permits and Fees

Whether you’re planning a single visit or coming back multiple times a year, enjoy the convenience of purchasing a pass before you arrive to cover recreation-related fees at Bureau of Land Management sites. Learn more about site-speciﬁc digital pass options at the Yuma Field Ofﬁce and buy your pass.

The LTVA long term permit ($180) allows use of Bureau of Land Management designated LTVAs continuously from September 15th to April 15th (a total of 7 months), or for any length of time between those two dates. The LTVA short-visit permit ($40) allows use of Bureau of Land Management designated LTVAs for any 14 consecutive day period from September 15th to April 15th, which begins on the day the permit receipt

is exchanged for the ofﬁcial permit and decal.

The short-visit permit may be renewed an unlimited number of times for the cost of the permit. LTVA permits are valid at all of the Bureau of Land Management LTVAs.

From April 16th through September 14th, the fee is $10 per vehicle for day-use, $15 per vehicle for overnight use, or $75 annually per vehicle, for up to 5 people per vehicle. There will be a $1 fee charged for each person over the 5 person limit. The maximum stay is 14 days in a 28-day period.

Visitors must pay daily fees or purchase annual permits at the Yuma Field Ofﬁce, on site, or https://www. recreation.gov/sitepass/eb34b293bd2b-4120-b6fa-c18be8184a67

Yuma District BLM Phone number: (928) 317-3200.

Do not camp in Day Use Areas!

There are FIVE 14-day camping areas around Quartzsite. There are no designated campsites and you may camp anywhere within the boundary of the ﬁve camping areas. These sites are excellent places to stay for a few days if you are camping in a selfcontained vehicle. They are located within close proximity to the Town of Quartzsite, where you can enjoy huge outdoor swap meets and gem and mineral show every January and February. Recreation and leisuretime activities abound on the public lands surrounding Quartzsite, including hiking, off-highway vehicle riding, wildlife viewing, rock-hounding, and hunting. There are no facilities at the free sites. There are no fees for camping. The length of stay

is limited to 14 days in a 28 day period. In addition to existing rules and regulations, there are supplemental rules which are used to help manage this campground. A free 14-Day Camping Permit is available from the seasonal camp host.

• PLOMOSA ROAD: Off 95 north of Quartzsite on north and south sides of Plomosa Road.

• HI JOLLY/MM112: About 3 miles north of Quartzsite on US Highway 95.

• DOME ROCK MOUNTAIN: West from Quartzsite about 4 miles.

• SCADDAN WASH:About 3.5 miles east of Quartzsite.

• ROAD RUNNER: On the west side of US 95, about 5 miles south of Quartzsite.

https://www.blm.gov/ofﬁce/yuma-

Nancy’s Kitchen

HOT APPLE FRITTERS

2 cups of unbleached all purpose

ﬂour

2 teaspoons of baking powder

1 teaspoon of salt

2/3 cup of sugar

2 teaspoons of cinnamon

2 teaspoons of vanilla extract

2 eggs

2 Tablespoons of melted butter

1 cup of milk

3 medium sized apples, peeled, cored, and diced canola oil for frying (about a quart) cinnamon sugar for topping confectioners’ sugar for dusting

1. Whisk together the ﬂour, baking powder, salt, and sugar in a medium sized bowl.

2. In a measuring cup, whisk together the milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.

3. Slowly mix the wet mixture with the dry mixture until the mixture is completely moistened. Gently stir in the diced apples.

4. Heat the canola oil to 375 F. Using a cookie scoop or a teaspoons, drop the batter into the hot oil. Use a slotted spoon to turn them after about a minute. Cook until golden brown. Make sure to regulate the heat to keep it at 375 F, this way the fritters will cook all of the way through!

- Use the slotted spoon to remove the fritters from the hot oil and place on a paper towel lined plate. As soon as they are slightly cooled, quickly roll them in the cinnamon sugar. Repeat with the rest of the batter. Sprinkle the warm fritters with powdered sugar. Make sure to enjoy them warm!

Sam Saxton returns to Q

There will be a New Years Eve Party at VFW Post 769 with Karoke and singing with Sam Saxton on the Back Patio at 6 pm.Open to the public, $5 cover charge; veterans free. Please bring your favorite ﬁnger

305 N. Central Blvd. (Hwy 95) Quartzsite. 928-927-7697

TOPS meet

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets every Tuesday at 7:30 am weigh-in. 8-9 meeting. Held at the Arise Alliance Church located at 720 Desert Vista St. Quartzsite. Membership fees are very reasonable.

DAILY 9 -

26 DesertMessenger.com

DEADLINE :

WED. JAN. 8TH

HOME WATCH SERVICES

We provide a routine inspection of your home once/month, twice/month or weekly ROUTINE SERVICES INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO:

• Regular Maintenance

• Check for Pests, Mold, & Water Leaks

• Start/Run Your Vehicle

• Landscaping Care

• Security Check

• Emergeny Weather Check

Call for custom package for all your needs - Snowbird Specials Available WE ARE HERE FOR YOU WHEN YOU CAN’T BE CALL/TEXT 928-412-9642

Vi-Sa-Wen

Women’s

Club updates

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Yes, the holiday season has begun. ViSaWen held their Annual Holiday Bazaar Saturday, November 23rd . It was a beautiful day. A cool morning turned into a pleasant, warm and sunny day. Visitors were greeted with lots of homemade goodies and crafts for this year’s sale. A drawing for a quilt made and donated byLucretia Brehm was won by Kattie Brookskenyon. Proceeds from revenues generated from this sale will be used for the Club’s 2025-2026 Community Grant Program.

NOVEMBER SOCIAL: Monday, November 18th was the date of the clubs latest member social. Special guest speakers were from BrightNight Solar Energy. Maribeth Sawchuk, Vice President, Communications and Yasmine Kattan, Manager Communications for BrightNight, were welcomed and presented insight into the Eagle Eye project planned for the Wenden area. This project has a life expectancy of 40 years at which time it will be decommissioned and recycled with the site being returned to it’s natural state. BrightNight is committed to contributing to the community in which their projects

are located. They hope to help Wenden Elementary School with a band program; they’re working with Arizona Western College with vocational scholarships; in other areas they’ve made contributions to local food banks, paid for specialized training for ﬁre department personnel, and to name a few. ViSaWen hopes to partner with them through the club’s Community Grant Program. The club will be working closely with BrightNight in the future.

WELCOME OUR NEWEST MEM-

BER: GFWC-AZ ViSaWen Women’s Club is pleased to announce our newest club member, Catherine (Kattie) Brookskenyon. Kattie enjoys crocheting and card making. Let’s make her feel welcome!

RADA: Don’t forget, Christmas is just around the corner and that good ol’ made in America cutlery, RADA, is a great gift. Visit the ViSaWen

Clubhouse Mondaymornings to look for a gift, or contact Bev Owens, 925550-1362, who will be glad to assist you.

NEXT MEETING: Our next regular business meeting will be December 5, 2024, beginning promptly at1: 00:00 p.m. It will be held at our Clubhouse located at 66918 Avenue C, Salome, AZ. It’s right behind the McMullen Valley Fire Station. All ladies are invited to come visit and watch this club in action and ﬁnd out what this Club does for our community.

Have a super-dooper holiday season!! Judie New, 2024-2026 Communications & P.R. Chair

KeepbeautifulQuartzsite

Littering is not only unsightly, it can cause environmental and health problems. Cigarette butts, for example, contain toxic chemicals that can end up in storm drains and contaminate our water systems. Trash and other items falling from unsecured loads can cause serious trafﬁc accidents.

According to Arizona law, “A person shall not drive or move a vehicle on a highway unless the vehicle is constructed or loaded in a manner to prevent any of its load from dropping, sifting, leaking or otherwise escaping from the vehicle.” (A.R.S. 28-1098.A).

According to the Arizona Department of Public Safety, violators could be charged with a class two misdemeanor and the ﬁnes, plus court costs, can range from $460 to well over $1,000, depending on injuries.

December 18, 2024 DesertMessenger.com 27

Live Music at Silly Al’s Pizza Friday & Saturday, 175 W. Main St.

Country Connection schedule MUSIC Happenings

MUSIC JAM at Mountain Quail RV Park, Saturday 6pm-8pm. 490 N. Moon Mountain Ave.

MUSIC JAM at 88 Shades RV Park Monday night 6:30pm at Rec hall. 575 W. Main St.

MUSIC JAM at Holiday Palms RV Resort 6:30pm Wednesdays, 355 W. Main St.

MUSIC JAM at Community Bible Church 2pm Wednesdays, 375 E. Sunrise St.

MUSIC JAM at JR’s RV Park Fridays 6:30pm. 982 N. Central Blvd.

Dec. 20, 7pm till 8:30pm Goldstar Resort, Greater Quartzsite Ukulele Orchestra. Christmas Show. Christmas songs and laughs. No Cover, Donations accepted. 250 S. Riggles Ave.

Dec. 21, 7pm till 8:30pm Goldstar Resort, Alex Muddy Smith Singer/ Songwriter/Guitarist. Fun upbeat original Christmas Songs, Cover Christmas Songs, Comedy. 250 S. Riggles Ave.

SKYHAWK is back for another season and ready to play! Wednesdays at Brenda RV Park 7-9 and then Fridays at the Quartzsite Senior Center 7-9. Lookin’ forward to seein’ everyone with their dancin’ shoes on! $6 at the door. 40 S. Moon Mountain Ave.

Music at Murphy’s Music Barn starts on Saturday, November 30th, 1:003:00 pm. Hope to see all our friends! La Paz Valley.

Whiskey Chicks are back on the patio at Quartzsite VFW Mondays 4-6pm! Come hear some Purdy Pickin’! 305 W. Main St.

Outback Pizza & Bar, 1170 W. Main

Tuesday: Whiskey Chicks

Wednesday: Karaoke with Country Gentleman (4PM -8PM)

Thursday: Jade Street

Friday: Smokin’Joe, LD & Bonnie Mae

Saturday:Rocky Watson

There will not be any Music Jams at Park Place RV Park (on Saturdays) until further notice

Senior Center: Country Plus Dance Band will be playing Tuesdays from 7-9 PM. Put your dancing boots on and join us! AND Skyhawk Fridays 7-9pm $6 at the door. 40 S. Moon Mountain Ave. $6 at door.

Smokin Joe LD & Bonnie Mae are two steppin over to the Bouse VFW Every Saturday 5-8pm! Join us for some good ol’ country music and fun! Dance your boots away! Address is 45190 AZ-72, Bouse, AZ. Non Members are welcome as guests on music nights!

Come on down to the Somewhere Bar in Bouse, AZ for free dance classes every Wednesday, 3-4pm. We teach Western Couples dances, all the basics plus some interesting Round dances. Fun, friends and ﬁtness.

Check out the Facebook group for updates on music and jams in the area at “Quartzsite and La Paz County Music Happenings.”

Is your event listed ?

Please email Rain with your listings, updates, or corrections.

DesertMessenger7@yahoo.com

Country Connection is back in the area!

Desert Gold RV at 7:00 pm

Dec 5 and 12, Jan 2, 9, 16, 30 Feb 6, 13,20

Mar 7, 14, 21

Every 4th Wednesday at Brenda RV Park at 7:00pm

We look forward to seeing you soon!

WACOG seeks volunteers

WACOG (Western Arizona Council of Governments) is seeking volunteers for two open positions for WACOG’s Human Services County Advisory Council. One for Private/ Community representative in La Paz County and one for Low Income representative in La Paz County. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Shanana Rain Golden-Bear or any WACOG La Paz County Governance member for an application. Email Rain at desertmessenger7@yahoo.com.

Metal detecting club update

Quartzsite Metal Detecting Club is changing the location for members to sign up! Miners Depot is closed now. Members can join at their meetings, outings and coin hunts and also at Sunset Sheds of Arizona at 79 W. Main St. Quartzsite. Their hours 8am to 5 7 days a week

Learn more at www.quartzsitemetaldetectingclub.com/

Skyhawk schedule

Come join us and dance to Country, Rock and Roll, and Big Band!

2024 - 7pm

Fri. Dec. 20, Dance-Senior Center

Fri. Dec. 27, Dance-Senior Center

Fri. Dec. 29, Dance-Senior Center

Tue. Dec. 31 NY Eve Dance -QIA

2025 - 7pm

Fri. Jan. 3, Dance-Senior Center

Wed. Jan. 8, Dance-Brenda RV

Fri. Jan. 10, Dance-Senior Center

Fri. Jan. 17, Dance-Senior Center

Fri. Jan. 24, Dance-Senior Center

Fri. Jan. 31, Dance-Senior Center

Tue. Feb. 4 Dance -QIA

Wed. Feb. 12, Dance-Brenda RV

Fri. Feb. 14, Dance-Senior Center

Fri. Feb. 21, Dance-Senior Center

BAND featuring Sonja Bartel on piano & trumpet, Norm Sharp on rhythm guitar, Jan Goldberg on bass guitar, John Gibson on violin & fiddle are back in Quartzsite for the season.

We play EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT at the Quartzsite Senior Center starting November 10.

We also play at Brenda RV EVERY 2ND WEDNESDAY starting November 8, 2023.

Come join us and dance to Country, Rock and Roll and Big Band. We hope to see you on the dance floor!!

SKYHAWK

Senior Scams

By Dakoda Stemen

Part IV: Healthcare and Medicare Scams

Welcome back to the Senior Scams! series, where we empower you to recognize and avoid common scams targeting older adults. In this article, we’re focusing on Healthcare and Medicare Scams, a major threat that exploits your trust in medical institutions and government programs.

What Are Healthcare and Medicare Scams?

Healthcare and Medicare scams involve fraudsters pretending to be representatives of Medicare, health insurance companies, or healthcare providers. Their goal is to steal your personal information, commit medical identity theft, or trick you into paying for fake services or equipment.

Common tactics include:

● Claiming to be from Medicare and asking for your Social Security number or Medicare ID.

● Offering “free” medical services or devices in exchange for personal information.

● Billing Medicare or your insurance for services you never received.

How These Scams Work

1. Phone Calls: Scammers call pretending to be Medicare representatives. They might claim you’re eligible for a new service or device and ask for personal information to process the “offer.”

2. Door-to-Door Visits: Fraudsters may show up at your home, offering free health screenings or medical equipment, only to steal your Medicare details.

3. Emails or Letters: You might receive fake communications requesting payment for overdue medical bills or offering healthcare discounts.

4. Fake Clinics: Some scams involve setting up fake clinics that bill Medicare for non-existent services after collecting your details.

Why Older Adults Are Targeted Seniors are prime targets for healthcare scams because scammers know:

● Seniors often rely on Medicare and trust ofﬁcial communications.

● Medical records can be worth more than credit card information on the black market.

● Confusion about beneﬁts and coverage makes seniors more likely to share information.

What Happens If You Fall for It?

Falling victim to healthcare and Medicare scams can have serious consequences:

● Medical Identity Theft: Scammers use your Medicare or insurance details to receive treatment, leaving you with unpaid bills and incorrect medical records.

● Financial Loss: You might be tricked into paying for fake treatments, services, or equipment.

● Compromised Personal Data: Scammers often sell your Social Security number and medical information to other criminals.

How to Protect Yourself

Here’s how you can safeguard against healthcare and Medicare scams:

1. Guard Your Medicare ID: Treat your Medicare card and number like a credit card. Only share it with trusted providers.

2. Verify the Caller: If someone claims to be from Medicare, hang up and call Medicare’s ofﬁcial number at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-6334227) to conﬁrm.

3. Beware of Free Offers: Be suspicious of anyone offering free services or equipment in exchange for your Medicare or insurance information.

4. Review Your Medicare Statements: Regularly check your Medicare Summary Notices or Explanation of Beneﬁts (EOB) for unauthorized charges or services.

5. Avoid Pressure: Legitimate representatives will not pressure you into sharing information or making immediate decisions.

Real-Life Example

of a Healthcare Scam

Imagine receiving a call from someone claiming to be from Medicare, informing you that you’re eligible for a free back brace. They ask for your Medicare ID to process the order.

Weeks later, you ﬁnd charges on your Medicare statement for multiple medical devices you never received. This is a classic example of a healthcare scam.

What to Do If You’ve Been Targeted

If you think you’ve fallen for a healthcare scam:

1. Report It: Contact Medicare at 1800-MEDICARE to report the scam. You can also report fraud to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov.

2. Monitor Your Medical Records: Check for any unauthorized treatments or claims.

3. Protect Your Credit: Place a fraud alert on your credit report by contacting one of the major credit bureaus.

4. Inform Your Bank: If you provided payment information, notify your bank or credit card company to monitor for fraudulent activity.

Stay Safe and Informed

Healthcare and Medicare scams are designed to exploit trust, but with vigilance and knowledge, you can protect yourself.

At InfoTech Guardian™, we’re here to help you stay safe from scams of all kinds. For personalized advice and monitoring services, contact us today for a free consultation.

Phone: +1 (626) 788 - 3656 Email: dakoda@InfoTechGuardian.com

Missed an article? Don’t worry—you can catch up online at www.DesertMessenger.com

Stay up

to date with Town Hall

Town of Quartzsite offers text notiﬁcations on your phone through TextMyGov. iWorQ is excited to announce a strategic partnership with @TextMyGov to expand citizen engagement with text messaging

To opt in, text the word “QUARTZSITE” to 91896. What to expect: After the initial keyword is sent, you’ll receive a conﬁrmation message asking you to reply “YES” to verify opt-in.

There will be 0-4 text messages per month with a notiﬁcation from the Town regarding the categories you are opted-in for. Message and data rates may apply. Check with your mobile phone carrieer for more details. How to Opt-Out: Text “STOP” at any time to remove yourself from the notiﬁcation list.

Also are you looking for answers? OR Need to report an issue such as pot holes, debris, weeds, etc?

Now you can Text the Town of Quartzsite directly. Introducing the new way to skip a phone call and use your mobile phone’s text messaging to ﬁnd answers to your questions.

Text “hi” or one the words listed below, to 928-260-4442.

“TREES, SEWER, CONTACT, STREET, WATER, POTHOLE, WEEDS, DEPARTMENTS, FAQ.” You can also upload a photo to help clarify the issue.

Photos around town

ABOVE: Huge crowds at Quartzsite Fall Festival held Saturday, November 23rd.

LEFT: Annual Santa’s Workshop Art & Craft Fair was a fun-ﬁlled event and a great fundraiser for the Food Bank, held Saturday & Sunday, November 30 & Dec. 1st.

HAPPY VALLEY PHARMACY

NOW ON WINTER HOURS

Monday - Thursday 9am - 5pm • Friday 9am-3pm

Closed daily for lunch from 12:30-1:30pm and closed weekends.

60 W. MAIN STREET, QUARTZSITE, AZ 928-927-5300

60 W. MAIN AZ

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE:

All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make any such preference, limitation, or discrimination.”

HUGE ANNUAL GARAGE

SALE January 9, 10, 11, and 16, 17, 18. 1350 N. Datig Ave. 9AM to 3PM . No early Birds. Tools, Antiques, Ammo. Household items & much, much more. Follow the signs

2003 CLUB CAR GOLF CART New 8v batteries, Black Ops high speed motor, & ignition. Good tires, licensed, road legal. Runs great. Asking $5,000. 541-272-9055.

LOOKING TO BUY: Inexpensive deeded property for sale by owner in or around Quartzsite, where adult kids under 55 can stay. Will consider reasonably priced properties of all shapes or sizes in any condition. Not looking for fancy expensive houses. Thank you, Don. Email: quartzsiteola@gmail.com.

QUILTING TABLE will quilt up to a queen size quilt, $500. 406-425-1889.

2 ACRES BARE LAND, Bouse AZ, Has Power Box and only Access to Water, Gold Flakes in Sand, $9000. For Both or Best Offer, Need Gone, Call 402-200-8764 for details.

FOR SALE: ALUMINUM UTV rack for pickup $2,500. Fits most pickups and will haul almost any 2 seater UTV. In Rainbow Acres -307-431-2789.

FOR SALE: 15” RIMS for Newer Polaris UTV $50. each (5 lug) Located in Rainbow Acres - 307-431-2789.

CLASSIFIEDS

FOR SALE: Beautiful Home - 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 1,027 sq. ft., completely furnished. Modular Home in Rainbow Acres. New in 2022. Includes oversized garage completely finished with LED Lights, Accessible. Call for more info 307-431-2789.

2012 MONTANA 3402RL 5th wheel, 38 ft. 4 slides, nice condition, washer/dryer, auto leveling, 2-year-old tires, lots of extras. (had no pets, kids or smoking) $31,000. 928-662-8035.

JUST IN TIME FOR CHRISTMAS Romanian AK 47 with 1000 Rounds and 10 Clips in Great Condition $1500. Ruger Mini 14 with Folding Composite Stock $850. If interested call 307-371-2086.

2005 MERCEDES E320 4Door Sedan. Gasoline Engine, Excellent Condition, everything works. AC, Sunroof, Radio & all electric accessories.157,000 miles. Text for photos or to see it! Located in Quartzsite. CNP8241 $4,100. NEW # 714-302-8121.

EBIKE 500 FULL suspension

Mt. Bike Baffang M400 mid drive, big battery. Upgraded drive train, chain, derailleur cassette, front ring. 1 new tire. Brakes, rotors near new. $500. 989-413-5378.

20 FT. CAMPING Travel Trailer, upgraded, new appliances, shower & seperate bathroom, sleeps 4, $6,995. 715-450-9071.

SMALL ENCLOSED TRAILER, pull with motorcycle or small car, $550. 715-450-9071.

EQUALIZER HITCH, complete, $125. 715-450-9071.

ELECTRIC TRICYCLE.

Almost new! Very popular Liberty trike, folds for easy transport. Charger included. Paid $1600. Will sacrifice for $650. 509-594-8801.

RUNNING LIZARD RV Park has RV Trailers for rent by the month. $350 to $375 per month plus Deposit and utilities. 55+ RV Park. No Cats or tobacco use. Call (928)210-4279.

2015 POLARIS RAZOR 900, About 3000 miles, nearly new tires, upgraded shocks & suspension, 5pt harnesses, full split windshield, full tinted rear window, small roof cargo bag, storage cover. $10,500. 360-635-1367.

MEDITATION GROUP in Quartzsite. Beginners welcome. Inquiries: Please Text 928-412-6977.

DID YOU MISS A Quartzsite COUNCIL MEETING? Watch videos online at www.QuartzsiteVideos.com

CLASSIFIEDS! 30 words for only $5 once, or $9 two times! 928-916-4235. Email Editor@DesertMessenger.com

PREPARE FOR POWER

OUTAGES today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-928-927-1273 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

WINTER VISITORS: Please do NOT use Quartzsite business or private organization dumpsters in town. Dump your trash for free at the Transfer Station. Quartzsite Transfer Station is open Sunday thru Wednesday, 7:30am to 2:30pm. The transfer station is located north of Town, just off Hwy. 95, near the Sewer Treatment Plant. Please cover your load. Thank you. For more info call the Main landfill 928-916-1253 or Main office at 928-854-9152.

Solar Panels, 21,399 Miles, 4WD, Bed, Refrigerator, Water Heater, Furnace, Water Storage, Sink, Stove, Toilet, Two Propane Tanks, Air Conditioner! $89,000 Contact: jtaylor@fisherstech.com 208-949-0947

Christmas Light Parade winners were announced after the parade Saturday night, December 14, 2024

The Best Parade Theme went to Quartzsite Roadrunner Gem and Mineral Club. The Best Spirit of Christmas went to Richard and Mary Ellen Campbell. The Most Creativity went to VFW Post 769 and Auxiliary The Fruitcake Award went to the Town of Quartzsite’s Camel Express.