February 2025

INSIDE THE FEBRUARY 2025 ISSUE:

Babbitt Ranches Maintains

‘Old West’ Traditions p. 3

Snowbowl Expands and Improves

Beginner Terrain p. 6

Girl Scouts

Practicing

Peak Scents Promotes Healing, Sustainability p. 10

Entrepreneurial Skills p. 8

GO AZ Motorcycles Revving Up for Major Prescott Valley Expansion

From dirt bikes to side-by-sides, GO AZ’s growth is fueling outdoor adventures in the Quad Cities

By Heidi Dahms Foster, QCBN

WTry French Pastries Baked in a Caboose p. 18

Vintner Eric Glomski Champions Arizona Wines p. 20

hen GO AZ motorcycles in Prescott Valley purchased the dealership from Star Island Motorsports three years ago, Bob Parsons, who owns seven locations in Arizona, set the business on a path of expansion and service to the growing motorcycle and off-road following in Central and Northern Arizona.

an expansion that will triple the size of the dealership. A new service department and a showroom more than twice the size of its current facility will allow GO AZ to keep 80% of its inventory indoors.

plans could include an off-road track for vehicle testing and customer experiences.

Located on the Highway 69 frontage, GO AZ is currently undergoing

The expansion also will feature state-of-the-art facilities with an eye toward an attractive aesthetic on the highway frontage. General Manager Leon Jaramillo said potential future

With its inventory of both twowheel (dirt bikes, enduros and street bikes) and four-wheel vehicles (sideby-sides, overland), GO AZ maintains an emphasis on vehicles suitable for both work and recreational purposes.

“We have hobbyists, and we have

Continued on page 43

Tribal Royalty Encourage Connection, Unity, Participation

Native leaders address state legislature

By Stan Bindell, QCBN

Miss Yavapai Apache Keikliana Lowry of Camp Verde was among several members of Native American royalty attending the 30th annual Indian Nations and Tribal Legislative Day, Wednesday, Jan. 15, at the state capitol.

“This is great and amazing,” she said. “I love to see how all the different tribes are trying to retain their culture and how there are so many cultural events here,” said Lowry, 20, a beader who plans to major in business at Mesa Community College.

Tribal royalty is selected based on their knowledge and practice of their culture. Lowry shares insights into her Native traditions with area school children.

Miss Navajo Nation Ranisha Begay, 23, is one step ahead of Lowry, as she already has earned her bachelor’s degree in business

administration from Fort Lewis College in Colorado.

“It is great to see our tribal representatives working with other communities,” she said.

Miss Indian Arizona Isabella Newman from the San Carlos Apache Tribe said the gathering was great because everybody was connecting. Newman graduated from Dartmouth, where she studied Asian cultures and language with a minor in government.

“I love government and I’m planning to go to law school,” she said.

Newman offered a blessing at the opening of the event. She asked people to pray in whatever way they felt comfortable. She pointed to the suffering of the people in California from wildfires.

Miss San Carlos Apache Veronica Bonilla, 17, is a student at Fort Thomas High School. She plans to study radiology at Colorado Mesa

Miss San Carlos Apache Queen Veronica Bonilla and Miss Indian Arizona Isabella Newman, also of the San Carlos Apache Tribe, were among the Native American representatives visiting the State Legislature and sharing insights about their culture. Photo by Stan Bindell

‘Super Bowl for the Cowboy World’

Babbitt Ranches continues Old West tradition, Shipping Day marks culmination of a year’s work

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

On a cold autumn morning, the quiet of the sprawling plains on Babbitt Ranches pulses to life with the pounding hooves of cattle and horses racing toward Tin House Camp. Shipping Day, also known as Fall Works, is a time-honored scene out of the Old West. Cowboys ride herd from all directions, bringing in cattle the same way it’s been done since the 1800s.

“It really does look choreographed,” said fourth generation Arizona Babbitt family member Roberta “Birdie Wallace. “It’s amazing how these cowboys can ride herd. And it’s fun to see the young cowboys.”

THE HIGHPOINT OF A YEAR’S EFFORT

Shipping Day signifies the culmination of a year-long journey for the Babbitt Ranches Community and a generational celebration of shared heritage. “This is when we ship calves we’ve raised for the year,” said third generation Ranch Manager Clay Rodgers. “This is like Super Bowl for the cowboy world.”

Leading up to this “Cowboy Super Bowl,” these 1,200 heifers and 500 steers were born in April, sold through an online auction in August, weaned in September and on Thursday, Nov. 21, 2024, were headed to buyers in Nebraska and Iowa.

Usually a serene outpost deep within the ranch, Tin House Camp on Shipping Day becomes a bustling hub of focus and purpose, rich with skill, experience and energy from cowboys to auctioneers, the veterinarian, livestock inspector, office manager, camp cook, professional consultants, Babbitt family members and truck drivers. They all share a commitment to ensuring the cattle, carefully raised throughout the year, are ready for their journey to the Midwest.

“We’ve worked hard all year long to raise these calves, keep them healthy, keep them alive, grow them up, bring them here and have them weigh what they’re supposed to weigh,” said

cowboy Will Vest, a longtime Babbitt Ranches employee. “They look good!”

“These guys work yearlong to raise a calf and it comes down to this day,” said Ray Turley with RoundupCattle.com, an internet cattle marketing company that sold these Babbitt Ranches calves in an August online auction. “We want to make sure that those calves weigh up and that we get the right figures for them. This is their one payday a year and we try to get this just spot on.”

FAMILY, TRADITION, HERITAGE

On horseback, Elizabeth and Matthew Rodgers, Clay’s children, help guide the cattle to the scale. “Bringing the kids out here is pretty important. They’re a big part of the operation at Babbitt Ranches,” he said.

From here, Flagstaff accountant Tim Howell records the weight. “517 pounds,” he confirms. As projected, each heifer weighs at least 500 pounds and each steer, more than 600.

“A couple days a year, I get to come out on Babbitts,” said Howell. “This is where I grew up. I spent my teenage years working on the corrals and building these as a kid, working for my father. So, it’s always nice to come out here and see the guys and just be back on Babbitt Ranches.”

Large animal veterinarian Jim Lytle has been caring for CO Bar cattle for more than two decades. “Any livestock going interstate has to have a health certificate. We don’t want diseases like tuberculosis to transport from Arizona to other states where these cattle are going. I’m looking at the cattle and they look good.”

Working closely with Dr. Lytle to validate the herd health is Arizona Department of Agriculture Livestock Inspector Royal Reidhead. His job includes ensuring proof of ownership. “I verify the sale of these cattle, which is important. Cattle theft is still a big thing in Arizona. You’re dealing with people’s livelihoods. This is how these ranchers make their living. This is how these cowboys feed their families.” Continued on page 42

On this day, cowboys ride herd from all directions toward Tin House Camp, usually a serene outpost, deep within the vast open spaces of Babbitt Ranches. Photo by Bonnie Stevens

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‘Life Lessons From a Zonie Girl’ Offers Tips for Staying Sunny, Grounded, Resilient

After decades of studying greatness, career journalist Bonnie Stevens shares strategies for navigating life’s challenging landscapes Can you go three more feet? Are you over the moon with soft skills? Can you leave what was once good for a chance at something better? “Life Lessons From a Zonie Girl: How to Stay Sunny, Grounded and Resilient” is a wisdom-packed trail guide of sorts for those looking for a foothold to boost themselves to new levels of success.

With optimism, grace, skilled storytelling and savvy shaped by Arizona’s glorious and sometimes harsh environment, Emmy-award winning career journalist, international best-selling author and international speaker Bonnie Stevens takes the reader through a number of scenarios, surroundings and true-life examples of how resilient individuals push through challenging times to persevere with a positive outlook, solid sense of self and renewed determination.

“Of all the professional titles Bonnie has worn in her life, her true gift of being a ‘natural storyteller’ fits her the best,” said pioneering Arizona television news anchorwoman Mary Jo West, who wrote the book’s foreword. “That’s why I know this book works. It works because it is the perfect read for a young woman just graduating from high school or college. Yet, it’s the perfect read for someone who has retired and feeling both jubilation and fear. There is a wonderful quote about Bonnie: ‘She is as comfortable on a ski slope as she is in a boardroom.’ That is so true. Here is a woman who not only has won an Emmy award and has had her work appear on CNN, PBS and The Weather Channel, but Bonnie has trekked across Panama and snorkels, skis and surfs at the drop of a hat. I have never been an outdoors person, but, after capturing the excitement of “Life Lessons From a Zonie Girl,”

I went out and purchased my first expensive pair of hiking boots!”

If you are struggling with charting your path across rugged new territory, spinning in a gravely riverbed of indecision, chasing a mirage, feeling pelted by a sandstorm of adversity or afraid to make a move on a mountain of jumping cholla, Stevens invites you to grab your hiking boots, sunscreen, water bottle and snake guards and get ready for an adventure through the wildlands of your professional and personal life. Like a basecamp along your journey, “Life Lessons From a Zonie Girl” is designed to feed your spirit, reinforce your resolve, make you laugh and help illuminate your next steps.

Stevens says she wrote the book so readers could hopscotch over years of tough life lessons, make good decisions sooner and recognize the path that’s right for their own personal trajectory and best life. “As a journalist, I have had the incredible good fortune of spending time with four U.S. presidential candidates, four moon-walking astronauts, top business leaders, world-class scientists, record-setting adventurers, individuals who have succeeded despite extreme adversity and stellar role models like Mary Jo West. From studying these individuals of excellence, I’ve compiled this soft leadership book to help others set their course for excellence.”

In her conversational, down-to-earth and bestfriend-esque writing style, Stevens asks readers to think of her as their trusted friend “who has all the right gear, best snacks and seasoned experts to help navigate their environment where the terrain can be heated, thorny and crawling with slithery creatures, but also grandly rewarding.”

Thus, Life Lessons From a Zonie Girl promises to outfit readers with tips and strategies to keep them cool, unscathed and powerful through life’s tricky landscapes. The book is available now on Amazon. QCBN

Stevens says she wrote the book so readers could hopscotch over years of tough life lessons, make good decisions sooner and recognize the path that’s right for their own personal trajectory and best life. Courtesy photo

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Arizona Snowbowl Celebrates New Aspen Chairlift, Expands Beginner Terrain

With the snip of the scissors, Mountain Operations Director Dale Haglin officially opened the new fixed-grip quad Aspen Chairlift, Saturday, Dec. 21, just in time for the holiday rush.

The modern lift serves four new beginner-friendly trails within the Forest Service-permitted ski area, provides shorter ride times and more than doubles the previous uphill capacity.

“This investment demonstrates our ongoing dedication to making skiing accessible and enjoyable for newcomers and families,” said Arizona Snowbowl Marketing Manager Angie Grubb.

“With the largest beginner terrain in the Southwest and free skiing for kids 12 and under with a Power Kids Pass, Snowbowl continues to be the place where Arizona learns to ski.” The old Aspen Chairlift, dating back to the 1960s, has been retired and remains an important part of Arizona Snowbowl’s long history.

Snowbowl is open daily through late spring, conditions permitting, with lifts operating from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. For updates on snow conditions, events and more, visit snowbowl.ski or follow Arizona Snowbowl on Instagram and Facebook. QCBN

Local Business. Global Opportunity.

Every business strives to grow revenue, diversify its buyer base, and create more jobs. In Arizona, we help make those goals a reality. Through the Arizona State Trade Expansion Program (AZSTEP) and ExporTech, small business owners can collaborate with public and private sector partners to get assistance exporting their products and services around the world. Together, these programs will help you develop global strategies, implement go-to market initiatives, attend international trade shows and access resources to compete on a global scale. Visit our site to accelerate your expansion and grow your business.

azcommerce.com/programs

Girl Scout Cookie Season Empowering Local Girls Through Entrepreneurship

The 2025 Girl Scout Cookie season is back in full force through March 2, 2025, as more than 7,500 girls in 90-plus communities across Central and Northern Arizona from Girl Scouts–Arizona Cactus-Pine Council (GSACPC) embrace their entrepreneurial spirit with timeless Girl Scout Cookie flavors that make a lasting impact, as funds raised stay 100% local.

“Girl Scout Cookie season and the community’s support of the program are life-changing for local girls, directly supporting Arizona Cactus-Pine Council’s focus areas of STEM, outdoor activities, life skills and entrepreneurship in addition to troop activities and long-term community service projects,” said Christina Spicer, co-CEO of GSACPC. “Proceeds from the sale further support girl-led take-action projects created by Girl Scouts to make long-lasting change in mental and physical health, education, art, sustainability, animal welfare and much more.”

The Girl Scout Cookie Program proceeds also remain local, helping to improve the accessibility and affordability of Girl Scouting by offering financial assistance toward membership fees, uniforms and camp.

“As the largest girl-led entrepreneurial program in the world, the Girl Scout Cookie program serves as a launchpad for girls to get their entrepreneurial beginnings and build essential skills in focus areas of goal setting, decision making, money management, people skills and business ethics,” said Mary Mitchell, Co-CEO of GSACPC.

During the season, GSACPC will provide opportunities for older girls to foster entrepreneurial skills through Empowering Girl Scout

Entrepreneurs on Feb. 1 in Phoenix, hosted in partnership with OneAZ Credit Union. The event will offer activities that allow girls to gain confidence as they create engaging cookie pitches and work with 50+ local executives and business leaders.

“We are grateful for OneAZ Credit Union’s support in creating this unique experience for older Girl Scouts. We will have over 100 girls interacting with local leaders, gaining their advice and participating in real-life experiences such as elevator pitching in an actual elevator, boardroom pitching in a professional setting and studio experiences to get headshots taken and record videos to build their personal brands,” said Mitchell. QCBN

Top: Flagstaff Girl Scout Emilynn Morgan of Troop 3170 reminds shoppers, “It’s cookie time !” Bottom: Peyton Van Hemert, a senior Girl Scout from Troop 212 in Flagstaff, is ready to do business.

Courtesy Photos

Peak Scents Owner DeeAnn Tracy is Flagstaff’s Green Beauty Trailblazer

By V. Ronnie Tierney, QCBN

With more than three decades of selling plant-based, toxin-free skin care products, Flagstaff Peak Scents founder and owner DeeAnn Tracy has not only accrued accounts around Arizona and increased her sales nationwide, but has won Best of Arizona 2024 by Green Living Magazine.

In conjunction with promoting skin health, Tracy has also made sustainability a priority. “This is at the heart of our mission, to reduce waste and make environmentally conscious choices.”

Traffic in Tracy’s shop, off Butler Ave., in Flagstaff has been growing steadily.“I’ve worked at Peak Scents now for two years and I’ve watched this business grow,” said Peak Scents Sales Associate Nicole Klimper. “New people are finding us all the time and it’s wonderful to see people’s skin journey. They are transformed before my eyes.”

Two years ago, Tracy partnered with Desert Refillery in Phoenix and agreed to carry each other’s products. “We sell their household products such as dish soaps and laundry detergents and we offer replenishment of all these products,” she said. “Since we make all of our products on the premises, the next step was

to offer the refilling of our products. Customers bring in their clean bottles and we fill them up.”

In addition, she wants to expand her refill options by offering refill pouches for website orders. “We have a lot of products, and we want to be more sustainable. People are just thrilled about this, and we have had such an overwhelming response.”

“I have been using Peak Scents products for 25 years. I am so happy the business is winning awards and expanding offerings because I feel like I struck gold with Peak Scents products,” said Melissa Jurgensen, a research associate at Northern Arizona University’s Economic Policy Institute, adding that she appreciates the quality of the ingredients.

“The introduction of the refillery makes me so happy,” said Jurgensen. “I have reduced our family’s consumption of plastic in the kitchen, laundry and personal care. The cost for the value can’t be beat.”

An outdoor enthusiast, Tracy has lived in Flagstaff most of her life and has worked as a river runner for several years. Intimately familiar with herbs and alternative ways of healing, her mom is well-known Flagstaff herbologist Phyllis Hogan, who has owned WinterSun Trading Post since 1976.

“The whole reason I chose this

ucts for their teens. They mentioned how the toxic products they used didn’t work, so I suggested our Power Repair Line. But we are talking about creating products that will be a little more active toward balancing acne.”

Looking forward, Tracy is planning to host workshops this year. “We hope to address teen acne,” she said.

Poco Diablo Resort Spa Manager Karen Terry says Peak Scents products are a very important part of their spa. “We’ve used them since 2016. It’s a very clean line and our clients just love it. DeeAnn is very knowledgeable and has come over and trained our staff about the products, so we really understand them. It sells well and people really like it, including our male clients.”

Ensuring freshness, all products are produced in small batches and include a line of cleansers and toners, moisturizers, serums and oils, exfoliators and masks, balms and salves, organic essential oils and hair products. Tracy is looking into adding a clean line of cosmetics.

That prompted her to pursue a clean line of skin care products.

Teen acne is one challenge she has worked to alleviate. “At least 10 parents have asked me about prod-

career path was because of my mom,” she said. “I grew up using herbal remedies and alternative healing methods, so after graduating college I attended the Southwest School of Botanical Medicine and came back to Flagstaff to manage her store. Customers were always asking about skin care products because, at the time, there was nothing truly natural on the market.”

The Peak Scents line has been featured in several magazines, including Vogue, Outside, Travel & Leisure, InStyle, Entrepreneur, Latinista, Flower and more.

According to Green Living Magazine, “Peak Scents embodies sustainable skincare, with products crafted from organic botanicals that not only nourish the skin but also protect the environment. From refill options to recyclable packaging, Peak Scents truly prioritizes green beauty.”

“It’s been wonderful to sell natural clean products that are good for the environment and actually work,” said Klimper. “We have very loyal customers and we’re seeing our demographics widening all the time.”

With a staff of seven, Tracy’s husband, Eric, also works at Peak Scents as production manager. In their spare time, they enjoy hiking, river rafting and supporting their 14-year-old son, Bodhi Brown, who is a competition dirt and mountain bike racer.QCBN

Peak Scents can be found online at www. peakscents.com or by calling 928-5569499.

Above: Peak Scents Founder DeeAnn Tracy has been featured in a number of national magazines for her plant-based skincare products that prioritize sustainability and natural healing.. Below: She says customers are thrilled about her refilling station. . Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

// BUSINESS CENTS //

BY BONNIE STEVENS, QCBN

In and Out with Kindness: It’s Good for Business

Some things never go out of style. Kindness is one of them. And science explains why.

KINDNESS BEGINS WITH YOU, FOR YOU

First of all, “kindness starts with being kind to yourself,” states Harvard Medical School’s Harvard Health Publishing. The article, “The Heart and Science of Kindness,” explains that our pressure-filled environment sets us up for mistreating ourselves – and as a result, others – noting that “it’s easy to work through lunch, work through dinner, and respond to emails at 11 p.m.” Sound familiar?

Not surprisingly, this work-workwork mentality can cause us to be tired, cranky and stressed out, “making others the target of the anger or frustration or disappointment that we really feel about ourselves.” Guilty? Me, too!

COMPASSION IS KINDNESS IN ACTION

When someone snaps at us, resorts to a mean comment or biting sarcasm, it’s tempting to address nastiness with nastiness. But here’s how we rise

above this primal response: Discipline. Yup. It takes an intentional effort and a visit from our higher selves to not take bad behavior personally.

As the article asks, “If you knew that your coworker delivering the curt response to a question or the snarky critique of a project had recently learned of a serious illness in their family, wouldn’t you cut them some slack?”

Did you just feel the shift in your heart? That’s compassion! And that’s what we can practice. If we consider the other person and their invisible pain, we can more easily let go of the perceived attack on us and respond with concern: perhaps by sincerely asking about their day; or by brightening it with a favorite cookie or flower.

Of course this takes effort, but it’s good for us, too! Science says so.

EVEN OBSERVING ACTS OF KINDNESS MAKES US FEEL

GOOD

Not that we need research to verify this, but Harvard cites a study by researchers Lee Rowland and Oliver Scott Curry about happiness measured before and after a seven-day

experiment on individuals who practiced deliberate acts of kindness every day for a week. It showed that we can boost our own happiness and that kindness is not biased.

Whether we are kind to our friends or strangers, it doesn’t matter, we become happier. It also doesn’t matter if we simply watch someone being kind – perhaps noticing someone slip a grocery shopper a few extra bucks when they come up short at the cash register.

IN AND OUT WITH KINDNESS

If you haven’t experienced much of this lately, allow me to share this Halmark-esque holiday story.

We may all know someone who experiences sadness during the holiday season because they have lost a loved one at this time of year. That insidious sadness tried to worm its way into my family last month. One member lost his best friend a week before Christmas. The two were inseparable and were the center of each other’s lives.

When it became inevitable that this 13-year-old dog needed to be relieved of his suffering, his broken-hearted

owner had one request – a last supper, an unseasoned pup patty from In and Out Burger for the pet. An easy, but important, request to satisfy, right?

Unbeknownst to us, the veterinarian appointment was in the morning, before In and Out opened! As I sat in the empty parking lot outside the burger location at I-17 and Carefree Highway, I knew I had to try to get that pup patty cooked and in my hands for the most important supper of this grieving pair’s relationship. So, calling the store and begging a favor would be easy, right? I was prepared to pay 10 times the normal amount for a single patty.

Sadly, the only phone number I could find was an 800 number. Doesn’t your heart just sink when all you have is an 800 number, as you envision robotic systems, long wait times and a circus of transferred calls?

Miraculously, wherever this 800 number rings at In and Out headquarters – perhaps the North Pole – a lovely woman answered the call. Immediately and in person! Panicking and grieving myself, I quickly

explained the situation. She said, “Let me put you on hold.”

Ugh. Funny how those words can sap your hope.

However, within seconds, the doors of the locked In and Out Burger flew open with a smiling, meticulously uniformed associate greeting me through my car window. And, I was no longer on hold! I was given the name of the manager inside and directed to go on in.

Immediately upon entering, the kind, young manager gently asked how many pup burgers I would need. Holding back tears, I was able to whisper, “Just one, please.” He responded with, “I already have two on the grill, is that OK? No charge.”

No more holding back tears! Within minutes, he served them, carefully wrapped and lovingly presented on a cardboard tray with a warm smile.

Now, in my experience, In and Out Burger has always been at the top of the food chain for customer service on a normal day, but on this day, before opening to the public, busy workers stopped what they were doing to come out in full view and

Campers Cozy Up to Arizona Nordic Village

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

For a unique getaway in nature without needing a lot of camping gear or experience, Airbnb guests are highly recommending Arizona Nordic Village for those seeking an outdoor adventure.

“This place was the perfect backpacking trip for my family, since it was our six-year-old’s first trip,” wrote one camper. “It’s easy when you don’t have to pack a tent.”

Located on Highway 180, 16 miles north of Flagstaff, seven furnished off-grid cabins and yurts are available within a short walk of the rustic lodge, where campers share bathroom accommodations. The Nordic Village team plans to provide three more small yurts to the front country this spring.

“People are finding us, and they are curious about what we have here,” said Manager Sydney Nieminen. “We are not your typical Airbnb. We offer a unique experience that you’re not going to find anywhere else.”

For the first time, the spacious Ponderosa Suite, upstairs in the lodge and previously reserved for the bridal suite, is available for rent as well. “It’s very popular for campers who don’t want to tend a fire,” said Nieminen. “It offers a

queen-size bed, full-size futon and kitchen.”

Following a snowy spring 2024, winter 2025 has had a slow start. “We have been waiting on getting enough snow to groom the trails for cross-country skiers,” said Nieminen, noting that 180 season passes have been purchased this season. “Right now, we are counting on some big storms to blanket the ski area.”

Meanwhile, wedding bells continue to ring for outdoor ceremonies. More than 40 weddings are on the books for 2025, with more expected. “People enjoy the freedom to create their own events,” said Nieminen. “Weddings range from intimate gatherings of eight people to large overnight events of 250.”

Overall, the Nordic Village team is focused on continuing to improve amenities in the front country for guest comfort and safety. “It feels great to be focused on the front country, where we can easily manage the properties, create charming spaces and maintain that rustic charm.” QCBN

Supporting Our Community and Making the World a Better Place

Through the Subaru Loves to Help program, in partnership with Operation Warm, Findlay Subaru Prescott is partnering with Boys and Girls Club to provide local children with new coats this season.

Yurts and cabins await campers who are looking for a unique experience. Courtesy photos

// COMMUNITY PROFILE // BY

V. RONNIE TIERNEY, QCBN

Cutting Edge: Mikal Antunez Blends Style, Humor and Heritage at DLuxe Barbershop

Mikal Antunez mixes modern haircuts, fun conversation and his Yavapai Apache culture to come up with a successful business blend at DLuxe Barbershop.

Antunez is known for his “modern fades,” which means keeping the hair longer on the top and having a smooth transition with the rest of the hair. He said this is the most popular trend, along with more men growing beards.

“Cutting hair has been my passion since I was a freshman in high school,” he said.

Antunez, 27, said he started by cutting his own hair, moved on to cutting his classmates’ hair, then had an apprenticeship with an experienced barber before opening DLuxe Barbershop five years ago. His first barbershop overlooked Heritage Square in downtown Flagstaff, with a great view of the San Francisco Peaks.

But Antunez outgrew that space and now, just five years since starting his business, has seven barbers work-

ing for him at 7 E. Aspen, Suite 6 in Flagstaff. He also obtained a liquor license and has a bar on the other side of the barbershop.

Antunez said he has a mostly younger clientele, but he also lives by the 33-33-33 rule, as a third of his clients are locals, a third are Northern Arizona University students and a third are tourists.

“We’re constantly growing because downtown Flagstaff is a busy place,” he said.

He says the best part of his job is seeing people from all walks of life come into his shop and having lively conversations with them.

“It’s nice to see what we have in common. The biggest thing is a good sense of humor.”

Antunez says he owes a lot of his success to the influence his late uncle Charles Decker had on him. Decker was a renowned native artist and Antunez keeps Decker’s artwork on the wall. “It’s good to see him every

Continued on page 39

Antunez says the best part of his job is seeing people from all walks of life come into his shop and having lively conversations with them. Photo by Don Decker

Learning the Art of Pruning Fruit Trees in Seven Steps

By Ken Lain

Every tree needs a little TLC now and then, and winter is the perfect time to give your apple trees some attention. Think of it as a spa day for your trees! The first step is to remove any unproductive wood that might be causing problems. It’s easy to prune an overgrow tree if you follow these seven steps in sequence. I hope you find this helpful.

STEP #1: REMOVE UNPRODUCTIVE WOOD THAT ATTRACTS PROBLEMS

Start by taking out any dead, damaged or diseased branches. Dead wood is usually pretty easy to spot – it looks dark, brittle and might even have bark falling off. Diseased branches often have a different color than the healthy ones. And damaged branches? Well, they’re like open wounds just waiting for insects and diseases to move in.

STEP #2 PRUNING, REMOVING SUCKERS FROM APPLE TREE BRANCHES

We often think about pruning to encourage growth, but sometimes it’s just as important to remove the wrong kind of growth. Here’s what to look for:

ƒ Suckers: These sprout from the base of the tree and steal energy from the main trunk.

ƒ Whorls: A cluster of branches growing from a single point on a branch, creating a congested mess.

ƒ Watersprouts: Thin, upright branches that rarely produce fruit and just sap energy.

STEP #3 PRUNING LOW BRANCHES

Sunlight is like gold for fruit trees. Any branches growing within four feet of the ground are going to be stuck in the shade, struggling to produce those juicy fruits you’re hoping for. Not only that, those low-hanging branches become an open invitation for critters looking for a tasty snack.

STEP #4 PRUNE OUT FUTURE PROBLEMS

When you’re pruning, it’s like you’re looking into the future of your apple tree. See those branches growing downwards? They’re headed for shade and won’t give you much fruit. Snip those out! Next, play “traffic cop” and look for any branches crossing or rubbing each other. These guys will get bigger and heavier over time, and you don’t want them causing traffic jams in your tree’s canopy. Prune them out now before they start bullying the main branches you need for a strong, healthy tree. It’s all about preventing problems before they even start!

STEP #5 OUTWARD FACING BUD

Let’s talk about those pruning cuts. When you’re taking out a whole branch, find that swollen area at the base called the branch collar. Look for a bud facing outward, away from the center of the tree. That’s your target! By cutting just above that outward-facing bud, you’re encouraging the branch to grow outward, keeping the center of your tree open and airy. It’s like giving your tree a good haircut – everything’s neat and tidy and nothing’s getting in the way of those beautiful fruits forming later in spring.

STEP #6 CLEARING THE CLUTTER

Think of yourself as a tree sculptor, shaping your tree for maximum beauty and productivity. Thin out those inner branches, letting the sunlight reach every single fruit that forms. Make sure each branch comes off the main leader at a nice, wide angle, like a strong arm reaching for the sky. Don’t be shy – get rid of any spindly, weak growth. Remember, this pruning encourages new growth, so the more you take out now, the less work you’ll have later on.

STEP #7 SPRAY WITH HORTICULTURAL OIL AND FERTILIZE

Now that the hard work of pruning is done, let’s give your fruit trees the VIP treatment! It’s time to bring out the big guns – Watters Horticultural Oil. This all-natural oil is like a protective shield for your tree, smothering any overwintering insect eggs and preventing those pesky adult insects from attacking your precious fruit. Make sure you give the entire tree a good soaking, from the trunk to the tips of the branches. Don’t forget to spray around the base of the tree, too!

Next up, let’s talk about feeding your tree. Just like us, fruit trees need a good meal after a workout. My go-to is Watters Fruit & Vegetable Food 6-4-4-7. This blend is specially formulated to give your fruit trees the organic nutrients they need to thrive. Sprinkle it generously around the tree, following the drip line – that’s where the roots are doing all the work.

And while you’re at it, why stop with just the apple tree? Everything in your yard is waking up and hungry right now. It’s like a spring tonic for

your garden, ensuring a healthy and vibrant start to the growing season. Happy gardening! Until next month, I’ll be helping locals with fruit trees here at Watters Garden Center. QCBN

Ken Lain can be found throughout the week at Watters Garden Center, 1815 Iron Springs Road in Prescott, or contacted through his websites at WattersGardenCenter.com or Top10Plants.com.

Top 11 Reasons Why Subaru Fits the Quad Cities Lifestyle

By Kara Hartman

Subaru has been a favorite for decades among car enthusiasts and families alike, earning recognition as one of the best cars of 2025 and a top choice for family vehicles. With a continued commitment to innovation, safety and sustainability, Subaru stands out in the competitive automotive market. Here are the Top 11 reasons to choose a Subaru vehicle in 2025:

1. SYMMETRICAL ALL-WHEEL DRIVE

Subaru’s unmatched symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD) system comes standard on nearly every model, making it one of the best AWD cars of 2025 and a top choice among all-wheel-drive vehicles for superior traction and stability. Whether you’re navigating slippery roads or tackling rugged terrain, Subaru’s AWD ensures optimal performance and control.

2. INDUSTRY-LEADING SAFETY FEATURES

Safety has always been a cornerstone of Subaru’s design philosophy. In 2025, Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is more advanced than ever, offering features like adaptive cruise control, lane centering, pre-collision braking and more. Many models also include advanced airbag systems and reinforced frames, earning Subaru top safety ratings across its lineup.

3. COMMITMENT TO GIVING BACK

Subaru is deeply committed to making a positive impact on communities and the environment through its Subaru corporate social responsibility initiatives and Subaru community programs. Through initiatives like the Subaru Love Promise, the company supports education, animal welfare, environmental conservation and more. Subaru partners with organizations locally like Yavapai Humane Society, K-9 Police Dogs, Horses with Heart, Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona, Prescott Area Shelter Services and more, as well as nationwide to give back and create meaningful change, reinforcing its dedication to being more than just a car company.

4. COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY

Subaru has been a leader in eco-friendly practices for years. Since 2004, the Subaru manufacturing plant in the U.S. is a zero-landfill facility. That’s worth repeating, ZERO-landfill means that nothing goes in the trash – all waste, from copy paper to metal, is recycled or reused – and that’s a huge statement for an automobile manufacturing facility. The company also focuses on using recycled materials in vehicle production and offers hybrid and all-electric models, including the popular Solterra EV.

5. VERSATILE, ACCOMMODATING, SPACIOUS

Subaru vehicles are known for their prac tical and roomy interiors. Whether it’s the family-friendly Ascent, available in an eight-passenger configuration or the adventurous Outback, Subaru offers ample cargo space, comfortable seating and innovative storage solutions.

Subaru vehicles are dog-friendly and accommodate people who are above average in height as well as those who are below average with ultimate comfort.

6. RELIABILITY: VEHICLES THAT LAST

With a reputation for building vehicles that last, Subaru consistently ranks among the most reliable brands in the automotive industry. Subaru’s high resale value is a testament to its durability and dependability, making it a smart investment.

7. EXCEPTIONAL PERFORMANCE ACROSS MODELS

From the sporty WRX to the capable Forester, Subaru offers a wide range of models to suit different driving preferences. Turbocharged engines, advanced suspension systems and smooth handling ensure a thrilling and responsive driving experience. The signature all-wheel drive system is standard on all models except the BRZ sports coupe, giving the driver sure-footed confidence on the road.

8. AWARD-WINNING CUSTOMER SATISFACTION

Subaru owners are some of the most loyal in the industry, and it’s no surprise why. Subaru dealerships, like Findlay Subaru Prescott, are renowned for providing exceptional customer service, ensuring a hassle-free buying and ownership experience. Check out our 5-star reviews on Google.

9. PET-FRIENDLY FEATURES

Subaru understands the importance of including furry family members in your adventures. Subaru’s 2025 and older models offer pet-focused accessories like padded seat covers, pet barriers, protective covers and easy-to-clean cargo areas, making them ideal for pet lovers and their companions. Contact us to get your pet-accessory brochure.

10.

ADVANCED CONNECTIVITY AND INFOTAINMENT

Subaru’s 2025 lineup is equipped with state-ofthe-art technology, including large touchscreens, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Integrated navigation and smartphone connectivity ensure you stay seamlessly connected and entertained on the road.

11. A VEHICLE FOR THE QUAD CITIES LIFESTYLE

Subaru’s diverse lineup ensures there’s a model for everyone. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a city commuter, or a family-focused driver, Subaru offers options like the compact SUV Crosstrek, Legacy sedan, or sporty BRZ to match your lifestyle and needs. QCBN

Kara Hartman is the marketing director for Findlay Subaru Prescott. For a no-obligation test drive, contact us at 928-543-0463, visit us online at www.findlaysubaruprescott.com or in person at 3230 Willow Creek Road, Prescott, AZ 86301. We’ll see you here!

VerdeValley

Serving the Greater Verde Valley

BUSINESS NEWS

Goettle Provides Vital Heating, Cooling through Good Neighbor Initiative

Goettl family business in Camp Verde bringing comfort to those in need

By Betsey Bruner, QCBN

VerdeValley

Financial difficulties, perhaps coupled with medical challenges, can throw an individual or family into a state of panic. These hardships would be even more daunting for concerned parties if they resulted in inadequate heating or cooling of their home.

Serving the Greater Verde Valley

Stepping in to help is Goettl’s High Desert Mechanical, a well-regarded business providing HVAC and plumbing services in the Camp Verde area since 1987.

The Goettl family developed the Good Neighbor Initiative (GNI) program three years ago as a way to give back to the community that has supported them over the years.

“We want to give back to the community that not only supports us but also supports other local businesses,”

the Goettl family said in a collective statement, after a recent group discussion. “As a family, we believe in making our community a better place and helping those facing financial or medical hardships. By doing so, we hope to bring comfort and safety to those in need. The community is essential to us because we wouldn’t be where we are today without the support of our amazing employees and the community we serve.”

BUSINESS NEWS

Families who require HVAC or plumbing equipment can be nominated to receive free installations.

To qualify for the GNI program, individuals must reside in Yavapai or Coconino counties. They must own their home and the home must have an existing HVAC system.

Giving back to communities began early for the Goettl brand when the

Continued on page 22

Marine Offers Free SelfDefense Classes to Empower Women Against Violence

Bill Watson teaches the ABCs of self-defense: Awareness, Boundaries, Combat

By V. Ronnie Tierney, QCBN

The unfortunate reality of random violence is real, and according to Marine Bill Watson, women are prime targets. Harnessing modalities that have been proven to work, Watson believes his calling is to teach women how to be safe, cognizant of danger and if needed, how to defend themselves.

Using props such as soccer balls, kicking shields and boxing gloves for women to practice striking accuracy, Watson’s weekly self-defense sessions are free and open to any woman who wants to attend.

“My goal is to help women know how to protect themselves and to pay it forward by teaching their children and grandchildren,” said Watson, who lives with his wife, Pat, in Rim Rock.

Conducting his weekly classes at the Calvary Chapel

Church in Camp Verde, Watson generally has a group of up to 10 women who range in ages from 40 to 80. “It doesn’t matter if one person shows or if I have a full classroom. What is important to me is to be sure I make my student(s) become safer in that hour.”

Watson teaches the A, B, Cs of self-defense. “Awareness is avoiding the threat. Boundaries are protecting your space. Combat is fighting your way to safety or freedom.”   Yelling and shouting loud vowel sounds, like “ay,” is also important, says Watson. “The purpose of yelling is to attract attention and secondly, to create distance. It’s also important to breathe, and when you hear your own voice, you are hyping yourself up to defend yourself.”

By focusing on mental awareness and observational skills, Watson highly recommends his students view Gavin De Becker’s The Gift of Fear website. “You have to be smart

Continued on page 21

Bill Watson makes it his personal mission to help women know how to protect themselves. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

The younger members of the Goettl intergenerational team at High Desert Mechanical are incorporating the latest HVAC and plumbing advancements to continue the Goettl reputation as an industry trailblazer. Pictured here are brothers Luke and Hank Goettl, sons of Ted Goettl, and Dustin Goettl, son of Adam Goettl. Photo courtesy of Goettl’s High Desert Mechanical

Amber Godina Creates a Taste of France Inside a Purple Caboose in Camp Verde

Violette’s Bakery Café is popular with locals and travelers

By V. Ronnie Tierney, QCBN

From writing articles about food for Noise Magazine and working for Trattoria Lastrada in Bonita, California, Violette’s Bakery Café owner Amber Godina has been well trained on how to butter up her customers.

This Clarkdale pastry chef is pleasing the palates of residents all around the Verde Valley as well as visitors from as far away as Europe by selling her French delights out of a train caboose-turned-cafe. Stirring up an eclectic menu of pastries, quiche, paninis, cookies, sandwiches and more, Godina knew from a young age she would be a chef.

“When I was 4 years old, I told my mom I wanted to be a chef, and I feel like that was my plan for life,” she said. “I was born in Los Angeles and have taken classes and worked with the best chefs all over the area. I even did a comparable “Julie & Julia”-type venture

and baked all the recipes in Jacquy Pfeiffer’s  book, The Art of French Pastry. I learned every detail and gave my neighbors all the pastries.”

Godina says she started her business out of her home with $50 worth of butter, flour and eggs. “I took everything I made and reinvested. I purchased used equipment and saved every single penny to buy more because I didn’t want to tax my family.”

“Violette’s Bakery Café is one of my go-to places when entertaining outof-town visitors to the Verde Valley and Clarkdale,” said Penny Beams of Cottonwood. “One bite of the French pastries and sip of coffee brings forth thoughts of France. Its eclectic, relaxed ambiance makes it a memorable and favorite place to return on a regular basis.”

The impetus to move to the Verde Valley was spurred 18 years ago when Godina and her husband, Carlos, talked about raising their children in the country. “We would take vacations here. My husband also wanted to change careers and was considering law enforcement. He eventually found a job with the Cottonwood Police Department, and we made the move.”

Other than one of her brothers, all of Godina’s family live in Clarkdale or Cottonwood, including her parents and grandparents. Her sister, Cricket Russell, works as a barista at Violette’s Bakery Café.

“My heart is what makes the pastries,” said Godina, who has a separate location for baking nearby. “I have a group of older veterans that meets here every single morning since I’ve opened. They sit around and talk and drink coffee and enjoy a pastry.”

Prior to opening Violette’s Bakery Café, the caboose was a gift shop. “A friend owned it, so I started selling my pastries alongside her products. The pastries sold so well I couldn’t make enough. When she retired, I took over the space and built a little kitchenette, put in a sink and did plumbing and other construction upgrades.”

The caboose originated from the Verde Canyon Railroad. “It was one of our early ticket offices in the 1990s,”

said Verde Canyon Railroad Marketing Group Coordinator Ellen J.D. Roberts.

In 2007, members of the Clarkdale Chamber of Commerce and others rebuilt the caboose to serve as a visitor and information center. Funding for the project was procured from local businesses, the chamber’s general fund, grants and the Yavapai-Apache Nation.

“We have had the caboose for over 10 years now,” said Godina. She reconstructed the interior to suit her culinary needs. Adjacent to the caboose is out-

side seating and a covered patio where patrons enjoy a relaxed and spacious atmosphere. Located at the gateway to Clarkdale, it is easy to find.

Other delights served at Violette’s Bakery Café include hazelnut and almond pralines and tarte au citron, a French tart with a pastry shell, lemon-flavored filling and thick meringue.

Located at 900 Main Street in Clarkdale, Violette’s Bakery Café is open 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday. VVBN

Top: Violette’s Bakery Café owner Amber Godina is living her dream as a chef, which she declared at age 4. Below: Chocolate and blackberry tarts, French lemon and raspberry sponge cake, croissants, Danishes, cheesecake and cookies tempt customers.

Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney

Along with plumbing upgrades, Godina installed a sink, kitchenette, grill and other necessities for baking in the caboose.

V. RONNIE TIERNEY, QCBN

Arizona Wine Country Visionary Takes Guests Behind the Scenes

Page Springs Cellars’

Eric Glomski is a champion for vintners, Arizona wines

Apainting of a viticulturist’s life goes far beyond the picturesque rows of groomed vines and trellises that eventually produce an alluring glass of fine wine.  Behind the surface is a palette of backbreaking labor, stress and long hours.

Just like any farmer, or in this case, winegrower, the elements of nature determine your workday.

From locating the best rootstock to planting, to pruning, to bottling, other factors such as weather, viruses, fungal diseases, rodents and pests factor into the success of a winegrower’s stock. Sometimes a day’s work calls for ripping up and replanting vineyards when the varieties aren’t right.

“People tend to paint a rose-colored picture of winegrowing. They

seem to omit the other 90% such as the long hours, backbreaking labor and all of the risk associated with farming,” said Page Springs Cellars

owner Eric Glomski, who commonly starts his day at 4 a.m. “My wife, Gayle, and I are in our 50s and on the average, work 10-12 hours a day, six

days a week. Sometimes seven. We literally bust our butts just to stay on top of it all.”

The hard labor, he notes, is the

result of their commitment to making great wines. “I’m personally driven and love it, but there’s so much to do.

Continued on page 40

Glomski is credited with helping other vintners in the state produce great wine and building Arizona’s reputation as a respectable wine region. He and his wife, Gayle, own Page Springs Cellars. Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography and Janelle Bonfield

Health First Foundation Grant Helps Dental Days Bring Free Dental Care to Northern Arizona

By Mark Urick

Access to dental care can be a challenge for many adults in Northern Arizona, especially for those without adequate insurance or the financial means to pay outof-pocket for services. This challenge is what the Dental Days program aims to address – by offering mobile, no-cost dental clinics, Dental Days is helping to bridge the gap for adults who struggle to access necessary dental care because of income limitations, insurance restrictions and a lack of available providers.

Founded in August of 2022 – and made possible by collaboration between volunteers, local healthcare providers and key community organizations like Health First Foundation – the program has seen remarkable growth. The most recent event, held in December 2023, served 89 individuals, making it the most successful clinic yet.

“Every event is filled with excitement and warmth,” explained Executive Committee Member Alicia Yaeger-Booth, who has a background in public health and nonprofit leadership. “The gratitude from our patients is incredibly inspiring.”

FILLING A NEED

Flagstaff’s Dental Days program provides free dental screenings and treatments during its

Saturday clinics, which have already become a crucial resource for those in need. Alicia explains this resource is exactly why the program was founded.

“There is a significant gap between the customary need-based determinations of eligibility and actual need, and these clinics address the issues of adult access to dental services, AHCCCS (Medicaid) coverage limitations and income barriers to oral health care,” she said.

“In Coconino County, there is just one adult AHCCCS provider, and it is not currently taking new adult patients. Plus, because of the high minimum wage in Flagstaff, a person working minimum wage may not qualify for AHCCCS.”

To ensure that the program is as accessible as possible, Dental Days holds pre-screening sessions on Friday afternoon before each Saturday clinic, allowing patients to be evaluated ahead of time. This makes it easier for those with busy work schedules to take advantage of the service.

Additionally, the team has learned to continuously improve, from refining their registration process to leveraging technology to streamline operations. Yaeger-Booth explains that this growth and opportunity is made possible by support from the Health First Foundation.

“HFF provided us with a little over $82,000 for supplies, equipment, and a trailer, and being able to purchase or rent what we needed helped that event take place,” Yaeger-Booth said. “It’s

before you get tough. It’s way more important and De Becker contains valuable information on using your intuition for threat assessment,” said Watson. “The mindset is the engine of the whole training. The physical assault follows after.  You don’t have to be a martial artist to defend yourself.”

“I’ve taken other self-defense classes and what make’s Bill’s approach different is his focus on environmental awareness and preventive strategies,” said Aileen Dyer, a retired educator. “His training is simple and practical yet effective, and I’ve incorporated [his

lessons] into my everyday life. I practice what we’ve learned at home and my husband has also gained some knowledge in self-defense.”

Next, Watson focuses on physical training and demonstrates methods he learned from Target Focus Training (TFT), which was developed by Tim Larkin, a well-known self-defense and close-combat trainer based in Las Vegas.

“TFT teaches the dynamics of injury and the usage of a tool powered by body weight. This allows you to stop any attacker dead in his tracks by

made a huge difference in our ability to serve more people and expand to new venues.”

A BRIGHT FUTURE

The Dental Days program continues to grow, and the team is committed to reaching more individuals who lack access to dental care. With three successful clinics already under their belt, the team hopes to eventually offer as many as four events per year.

“We’re seeing the same people return to our clinics, which tells us we’re meeting a real need,” said Yaeger-Booth. “The stories people share and the gratitude from returned clients who have no other dental home is unbelievably rewarding.”

As the program continues to serve Flagstaff and the surrounding areas, Yaeger-Booth says the team is dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care to every patient who walks through the door.

“Our volunteers are incredible – they’re the ones who make these clinics run. It’s really a community effort, and it’s what makes this program so special. People are eager to help because they care about improving the lives of their neighbors.”

VVBN

inflicting crippling pain. I highly recommend a tactical flashlight. Not only can the flashlight be used as a weapon, but if it’s dark, the flashlight can blind a potential assailant,” said Watson.

Another approach that Watson uses is Rapid Assault Tactics (RAT), a technique developed by Navy SEALs trainer Paul Vunak. “I changed a few things because this takes so much practice,” said Watson, noting his training classes do not focus on guns.

Watson says he has been trained in several forms of martial arts, such as Jujitsu and Taekwondo, but says he couldn’t connect. “I found that the self-defense modules didn’t focus on personal boundaries and dealing with the emotional aspect, which to me is very important.”

Rhonda Kinsman of Camp Verde has been attending Watson’s classes since he began teaching. “Bill has a passion for helping women protect

themselves. He teaches the same concepts, situational awareness and how to react when there is a potential threat in different ways, week after week. He makes it fun and interesting.”

Claiming he will never charge for his classes, Watson says he made a promise to God that he would teach for free. QCBN

For more information, call Watson at 928301-0320.

Top: Self-defense instructor Bill Watson demonstrates defense techniques with Rhonda Kinsman. Right: Retired educator Aileen Dyer exercises the use of a tool for defense. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

SELF-DEFENSE continued from page 17

The Dental Days program is made possible by a collaboration of volunteers, local healthcare providers and organizations like Health First Foundation. Courtesy photo

original Goettl brothers, sporting the surname of South German origins, made a journey from Ohio to Phoenix in 1926. They laid a foundation for a legacy of heating and cooling technology by opening a fabrication site in Phoenix.

Fast forward to 1987, when grandsons Ted and Adam Goettl started the family-run business, Goettl’s High Desert Mechanical (HDM), to provide elite heating, cooling and plumbing services in Yavapai and Coconino Counties. This intergenerational team continued when their sons, Luke and Hank (Ted’s sons) and Dustin (Adam’s son), joined the business and worked their way up through every position in order to learn about the company.

Over time, the three sons stepped into ownership and management roles, guided by the mentorship of their fathers. Today, they are breathing fresh energy into operations by incorporating the latest HVAC and plumbing advancements to continue the Goettl reputation as an industry trailblazer.

Now, five Goettl-related families form the backbone of the tight-knit, supportive work environment.

A video link on the Goettl website introduces visitors to several people who have received help with their HVAC problems through the Good Neighbor Initiative. They are iden-

tified only by their first names for privacy and safety considerations, explained Chance Weir, the marketing and safety officer for the company.

A recent addition to the video site is a woman named Patty who had been dealing with a serious furnace problem since November of last year.

A resident of Cottonwood, she has lived in the Verde Valley for more than 70 years.

“She was a perfect match,” Weir said. “She had a need. They went out to service her house. They found a problem, but she wasn’t able to afford the repairs that were needed.

As a collective group, they decided to replace the whole system.”

“When I’ve had issues, I’ve turned to them because I trust them,” said Patty, a longtime Desert High Mechanical customer, on the video.

When her older furnace failed, she contacted High Desert Mechanical.

“They sent Greg out and they got it going,” she said. “He said because it is so old, it might not hold, and it didn’t.”

The company brought her an extra heater that she could plug in to keep warm while an installation was planned to correct her HVAC problems. Installers replaced an old gas package unit, repaired and replaced much of the ductwork in the house and installed a new thermostat.

“I’m very grateful to the Goettls

for their new program,” Patty said. “Without them and the help they have given me, I would not have been able to afford a new furnace.” QCBN

For more information about the Good Neighbor initiative (GNI), visit https://goettlshdm.com/good-neighbor/

The Verde Valley, with its vibrant communities and a growing population of over 50,000, is a hub of natural beauty, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit. The Quad Cities Business News is proud to announce the launch of our new Verde Valley section, dedicated to spotlighting the region’s dynamic business ecosystem. Through in-depth coverage and expert insights, we aim to connect, inform, and celebrate the remarkable people and businesses driving growth in this incredible part of Arizona.

Five Goettl-related families now form the backbone of the tight-knit, supportive work environment. Pictured here are Ted, Luke, Dustin, Hank and Adam Goettl. Photo courtesy of Goettl’s High Desert Mechanical

Bringing Your Brand to Life

By Eva Janckila

Branding – it’s the heart and soul of your business. It’s more than just a logo; it’s how the world perceives your company. For small business owners, marketing managers and entrepreneurs, branding is not just important – it’s essential. Done well, it can distinguish your business in an otherwise cluttered marketplace. But here’s a key takeaway for today’s branding strategy: It’s all about being consistent and constant.

One often overlooked aspect of branding is putting your logo to work

in places beyond your social media posts, websites and advertising. Think bigger! What if your brand could go wherever your customers or employees do? From apparel to promotional items like mugs and keychains, your logo can live, breathe and travel out into the world, creating a lasting impression.

WHY CONSISTENCY IN BRANDING MATTERS

When customers see your logo in multiple places – from your storefront to Instagram to the shirt your barista is wearing – they begin to recognize and trust your business.

Using branded items like apparel and promotional products also ensures your business stays at the top of people’s minds. Every time a customer sips their coffee from a mug with your logo or wears a comfy branded hoodie, your business makes an impression.

Consistency breeds familiarity and familiarity leads to trust. And trust? That’s what keeps customers coming back.

Using branded items like apparel and promotional products also ensures your business stays at the top of people’s minds. Every time a customer sips their coffee from a mug with your logo or wears a comfy branded hoodie, your business makes an impression.

HOW TO BRING YOUR BRAND TO LIFE WITH CUSTOM PRODUCTS

At Arizona Cap & Apparel, we know a thing or two about branding. We specialize in helping businesses showcase their logos on apparel and promotional products in ways that feel polished and professional. Here are some ways to take your logo beyond traditional marketing methods:

1. SCREEN PRINTING FOR

APPAREL

Screen printing is a classic choice for bold, colorful logos. Think t-shirts, hoodies or even tote bags for employees, clients or giveaways. It’s cost-effective, eye-catching and great for large orders.

Brand Products and Happy Customers!

We’ve worked with AZ Cap & Apparel for the past 10 years and it has always been a pleasent experience. They’re fast and efficient and offer suggestions on how to help your company’s brand stand out on shirts, hats, promo items and more! Rachel Little, Owner of Chino Heating & Cooling

Looking for high-quality apparel and promo items for your business?

Join the countless small business owners who trust Arizona Cap & Apparel for professional service and top-tier products.

2. EMBROIDERY FOR A DURABLE, POLISHED LOOK

For a premium, durable finish, embroidery is ideal. From polos and hats to jackets and bags, embroidered logos give a more sophisticated feel and have longevity. Embroidery is perfect for uniforms, corporate gifts or even high-end swag.

3. LASERING FOR A MODERN EDGE

Want to stand out with a sleek, modern look? Lasering is perfect for promotional items like custom water bottles, wood cutting boards or travel mugs. It adds a unique touch that sets your brand apart.

4. APPAREL THAT GOES EVERYWHERE

Hats, shirts and jackets are your mobile billboards. They don’t just represent your brand inside your business – they take your message out into the world. When an employee wears your branded hoodie to a weekend event or a customer dons your hat on vacation, your business gains visibility, building awareness effortlessly.

5. PROMO ITEMS THAT TRAVEL

Beyond apparel, consider promotional products like keychains, pens, mugs or reusable bags. These items get daily use and provide constant reminders of your organization wherever they go.

BRANDING TIP FOR SUCCESS

When considering what products to brand, focus on items that align with your business and audience. For example:

ƒ A tech company might brand chargers or phone accessories.

ƒ A coffee shop could use travel mugs or reusable drink sleeves.

ƒ An outdoor adventure company might invest in hats, water bottles or dri-fit shirts.

The goal is to make your logo visible on products that resonate with your brand and customers’ lifestyles! QCBN

Arizona Cap & Apparel, owned by Eva Janckila and her son, Vance, in Prescott Valley, are proud to help businesses take their marketing to a new level through customized apparel and branded promotional goods. Find them on the web at arizonacap.com.

Prescott Food Forest Keeps Growing

By John Murphy

It’s that time of year again. Even though it’s cold outside, dreams to plant and grow fruits and vegetables dance in our heads. Now is the time to plan your garden and get the education needed to become knowledgeable and proficient to do so successfully.

To help Quad Cities residents gain the insights and skills to not only grow a garden, but to become self-sufficient and sustainable, there are numerous programs and events available to master many aspects of gardening and homesteading.

SPRING AND SUMMER GARDENING CLASSES

Once again, The Prescott Food Forest @ B Organic Farm in Chino Valley is offering in-depth six-week gardening courses starting 10 a.m. to 12 noon, Saturday, March 29 and continuing every Saturday for the full six weeks. Spots are filling fast and there is limited availability, so visit www. prescottfoodforest.com to register. Thanks to our fundraising efforts and the generous support of our sponsors, you have an opportunity to receive a full six-week course scholarship, in return for 10 volunteer hours at B Organic Farm. The cost is $99 if volunteering is not something you want to do.

Also, at 12:30 p.m., Saturday, March 22, there will be a volunteer and former student kick-off celebration at B Organic Farm. All new and former students and volunteers are welcome! Fresh food and refreshments will be served.

ROCK THE GARDEN OPEN CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT

Because of the success and positive response to last year’s sold-out golf event, The Make 100 Healthy Foundation is hosting the 2nd Annual Rock the Garden Open charity golf tournament on Tuesday April 29, with a 9 a.m. shotgun scramble format at the private and exclusive The Club at Prescott Lakes golf course. Last year, the event was sold out as players were treated to live music throughout the course and enjoyed golf games, including a hole-in-one chance to win a new car courtesy of Lamb Chevrolet, a Putting for Plants challenge courtesy of Watters Garden Center, and an Awards Luncheon after the event. To sign up, visit www.prescottfoodforest. com and find the event listed on our home page. All net proceeds go to support gardening education, scholarships for students and needed supplies to keep the gardens operational.

NORTHERN ARIZONA HOMESTEADING CONFERENCE

Another exciting new event is set for

10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday May 10, at the Prescott Valley Civic Center. Mark your calendar to attend the First Northern Arizona Homesteading Conference! Join us at the Conference to get inspired and learn or explore new self-reliance and homesteading skills.

The event will feature local farmers, homesteaders and makers who will demonstrate and teach their crafts and share their skills and methods. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from professionals, interact with local homesteaders and meet like-minded people in our community.

Admission is free but there is a VIP All Access Pass that allows entrance to seminars, special keynote speakers and VIP-only events for only $20.

Prescott Food Forest Director Stephane Leon is leading this event, and her vision is to bring together all those interested in self-sufficiency and sustainability, including raising chickens, growing and preserving food, creating an apiary, forging, animal health care, tree grafting, water harvesting, gardening, preserving and so much more.

“There are so many talented and wonderful people who want to share their amazing skills with our community,” said Leon. “The Northern Arizona Homesteading Conference is a platform we are creating meant to help amplify their messages and give

them the opportunity to interact with the community.”

If you or anyone you know would like to be a sponsor, speaker or demonstrator or have a booth to share their wares, contact Stephane at prescottfoodforest@gmail. com or visit our website and click the logo for the event on the home page to be taken to more information and to sign up. QCBN

John Murphy is the founder of the nonprofit Make 100 Healthy Foundation, which supports the Prescott Food Forest, was the chair for The Prescott Commission for Well Being and is a realtor in the Prescott area. To contact John directly, please email him at john. teammurphy@gmail.com or call 928-899-1341.

Prescott Frontier Days Announces 2025 World’s

Oldest Rodeo Ticket Sales, Women in Rodeo Theme

By Donna Werking

Prescott Frontier Days, Inc., is proud to announce that tickets for the highly anticipated 2025 World’s Oldest Rodeo will go on sale on March 17. The event, scheduled to take place from June 30 to July 6, 2025, promises to deliver another thrilling week of rodeo action, drawing fans from across the globe to Prescott.

This year, the World’s Oldest Rodeo will shine a spotlight on an extraordinary group of athletes and contributors: the Women in Rodeo. With a nod to the trailblazing women who have shaped rodeo culture from its earliest days, this year’s theme celebrates the often overlooked yet pivotal role women have played in the rodeo world. From barrel racing to trick riding and beyond, women have been integral in shaping not only Prescott Frontier Days but the entire sport of rodeo.

“We are incredibly excited to unveil the Women in Rodeo as the

theme for 2025,” said Jim Dewey Brown, general manager of Prescott Frontier Days, Inc. “This allows us to honor the deep-rooted traditions and the countless women who have contributed to the history of rodeo – not just as competitors, but as leaders, stock contractors and pioneers in the sport. Their strength, grit and determination are central to our rodeo’s legacy.”

The 2025 event will feature special tributes, performances and stories highlighting the achievements of rodeo cowgirls past and present, honoring the women who have left their mark on the rodeo circuit. Additionally, rodeo fans can expect the same top-tier competition and high-energy entertainment they’ve come to expect from the World’s Oldest Rodeo, including bull riding, bronc riding, steer wrestling and much more.

With such a significant theme this year, the 2025 World’s Oldest Rodeo is set to be a momentous occasion. Fans are encouraged to secure tickets

early when sales begin on March 17, as this iconic event is sure to sell out quickly. QCBN

Mark your calendars and get ready to experience the heart and soul of rodeo in Prescott. VIP tickets will go on sale earlier. For more general information, visit www. worldsoldestrodeo.com or follow us on social media for updates and announcements. We want to emphasize the importance of purchasing tickets directly through our official website, www.WorldsOldestRodeo.com, to avoid third-party spam websites. By buying your tickets exclusively through our trusted platform, you can guarantee a seamless ticketing experience and secure your spot at this historic and thrilling event. Don’t miss out on the chance to be a part of the unforgettable experience that is the World’s Oldest Rodeo. Get your tickets March 17, only at www.WorldsOldestRodeo.com. For rodeo inquiries, please contact the rodeo office at 928-445-3103 or email info@worldsoldestrodeo.com. The rodeo office is located at 840 Rodeo Drive Prescott, AZ 86305.

Marketing Agency by QCBN for seven consecutive years. She is the co-founder of the New Year’s Eve Boot

Prescott Food Forest volunteers help residents gain skills to grow gardens and become more self-sufficient. Courtesy photo

Donna Werking is the owner and marketing strategist for Northern AZ Social, LLC. Donna has been marketing the Northern Arizona region since 2006. Northern AZ Social has been named Best

Drop. In 2022, she was named TOP 3 marketing

agencies in Arizona by SocialAppsHQ and also featured on PBS’s Road Trip Nation as an Arizona leader in her industry. Donna also serves on the Board of Advisors for the ACFYC and volunteers her time to her community in Prescott, Arizona.

This year’s theme is Women in Rodeo. Courtesy photo

Healthcare 2025

YMCA Trainer Works with Every Body

Sam Dettman is popular among hikers and those living with pain

By Stan Bindell, QCBN

YMCA Personal Trainer Sam

Dettman has a simple philosophy: “You may own several cars over your lifetime, but you only have one body.” Thus, he says, if you don’t take care of it, you may be miserable, especially in your senior years.

“What we teach you in the gym helps you outside of the gym,” he said. “It’s important to me that I can make a difference and see people improve. It helps keep people out of the hospital and lowers medical bills.”

Dettman, who tailors workouts for each individual, has been at the YMCA since 2018. His clientele has grown continually as the word gets out. He estimates that 80% of his clients are age 60 and older. He helps men and women with strength training and general injury rehabilitation and prevention.

Dettman also is one of the instructors who teaches a class about Parkinson’s disease. While his personal training is for a fee, the Parkinson’s classes are for free. “There are not many Parkinson’s classes or programs in the Prescott area,” he said.

As for his regular personal training classes, he starts with an orienta-

tion and personal assessment. The sessions usually last about an hour. “I work with each person to meet their needs.”

Dettman is known for his work with hikers, helping them cut down on pain and improve their stamina. “Some want to feel comfortable going on longer hikes. Some need help with balance and some need leg strengthening.”

Dettman estimates that about 50% of his clients have some form of arthritis. He added that if someone has a problem with their knees, it often

can cause problems with their feet. He usually recommends different levels of exercise and weight training depending on the injury or physical needs.

Shoulders, knees and back pain are among the most common problems he sees in clients. “It’s not usually about getting rid of the pain, but about managing and lowering the pain. But,” he noted, “some have been able to get rid of their pain. The human body is like a puzzle. Sometimes it takes time to find the root of the problem. Finding the answer to the

puzzle can take weeks.”

Dettman has certifications in many types of personal training. When he was 18, he joined the U.S. Air Force and served in special operations. This is where he was trained to help soldiers prevent knee and other injuries that are common in the military. He developed a bulging disc earlier and he worked at training to improve his own condition.

Dettman has trained others at fire academies and the JROTC at Embry-Riddle Aeronautics University. He says there has been a resurgence of

people returning to the gym since the pandemic.

His top tip is that people should find some type of exercise that they not only like, but that challenges them and something that they will stick to doing. He recommends that everyone does some weight training and some type of core exercise such as sit-ups.

“I love that I can improve someone’s life,” he said. “It’s never too late to get help and it helps to talk with a professional.” QCBN

James-Marco Health: Luxury Health Care Redefined

New boutique health center combines Western medicine, beauty treatments, holistic care

By Stan Bindell, QCBN

In 2018, neurosurgeon Whitney

James met nurse Barbara Marco, sparking a partnership that would transform health care. The two shared a commitment to providing exceptional patient care and operated a thriving neurosurgery practice. Over the years, they dreamed of creating a holistic health care model that would merge what they considered to be the best aspects of Western medicine with naturopathic and beauty treatments. That vision took on new urgency in 2021 when Marco tragically passed away from COVID-19. To honor her friend’s legacy, James founded James-Marco Health, a boutique-style wellness center in Prescott, designed to deliver personalized luxury health and beauty services.

A NEW APPROACH TO HEALTH

CARE

James-Marco Health offers a serene, home-like atmosphere in the Court-

house Plaza area, overlooking downtown Prescott. The center rejects the high-volume, insurance-driven model that James says limited her ability to provide quality care in her previous practice.

“I am more motivated and excited because I was fatigued working in the health care system,” she said. “It was harder and harder not to do harm in that system. You feel trapped. Getting out of that system was liberating. I now have the freedom to help people in a non-cookie-cutter approach.”

The center operates on a concierge model, allowing patients to pay directly for services. James argues that this approach can be more cost-effective for patients who face high insurance premiums and deductibles. “Patients should ask whether they would have more coming out of their pocket or would pay less for our concierge services,” she suggested.

COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES UNDER ONE ROOF

James-Marco Health employs four providers, including a Western medicine practitioner, two naturopaths and a Chinese medicine practitioner. The center offers an array of services, from primary care and telehealth to cancer treatment and acupuncture. Patients can also access wellness treatments such as Botox, facials, massage therapy and life coaching.

In addition, James-Marco Health provides services like personal fitness training, reiki, spinal alignment therapies, IV injections and HydraFacials – all designed to enhance physical and mental well-being.

“Our appointments with patients run 45 minutes to an hour. It takes that long to get to the root of the problem. When I’ve talked to patients for an hour, I often don’t find out the most important information until the last minute,” she said, noting that this is her solution to the healthcare system problem.

“Doctors are frustrated with our healthcare system because they have volume quotas,” she said. “We are providing affordable health care that health insurance cannot provide.”

The center also offers pediatric ser-

vices and family memberships, which allow patients to accumulate credit toward treatments such as massages or peptide therapy. James believes the holistic offerings are less invasive and more effective for many conditions.

A COMMUNITY-FOCUSED VISION

James-Marco Health officially opened in August with a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Prescott Chamber of Commerce. Executive Director

YMCA Personal Trainer Sam Dettman says the human body is like a puzzle and that it takes time to find the root of the problem, noting that shoulders, knees and back pain are among the most common ailments he sees in clients. Shown here working out with trainer Patti Vanacore, Dettman says he loves that he can improve someone’s life.

Photos by Stan Bindell

Owner Whitney James and Executive Director Ashley Tarver work to create a welcoming, relaxing atmosphere. Photo by Stan Bindell

Show Your Heart Some Love this Valentine’s Day

By Joanne Mack Robertson

This Valentine’s Day, show some love — to your heart! According to the American Heart Association:

ƒ The heart does more physical work than any other muscle in the body.

ƒ The average heart pumps 2,000 gallons of blood per day.

ƒ In a 70-year lifetime, an average human heart beats more than 2.5 billion times.

ƒ The average heart beats 100,000 times a day.

Your heart works hard for you, so naturally, it deserves some love — and not only on Valentine’s Day! Here are a few habits you can incorporate into your daily routine that can help get you on track toward a healthier ticker.

GET MOVING

Consider these three types of movement for a complete heart-health routine:

Strength training: It doesn’t have to mean working out on weight machines at the gym. A home workout using hand weights or dumbbells, resistance bands or body-resistance exercises such as squats and push-ups can be equally effective in reducing fat and creating leaner muscle mass. The American College of Sports Medicine suggests at least two nonconsecutive days per week of resistance training. Combined with aerobic exercise, it may help raise HDL (good) cholesterol and lower LDL (bad) cholesterol. Your heart will thank you!

Stretching, flexibility and balance exercises: These moves play a supporting role in your heart health. If you’re able to stay flexible and free from joint issues, you’ll be more inclined to continue a regular aerobic and strength training routine. These moves can be done every day, especially before and after exercise. Your healthcare provider will be able to recommend some basic stretches and balance exercises that you can do at home. Ask your provider about joining a Yoga or Tai Chi class, too!

Aerobic exercise: This is the kind of movement that gets your heart pumping. Think brisk walking or running, swimming, playing pickleball or bicycling. Talk to your healthcare provider about what choice might be best for you, how to get started and how many minutes per week is appropriate for your needs. Ultimately, aerobic exercise, combined with other heart-healthy habits, helps to improve your circulation. The payoff is lower blood pressure and a lower heart rate — both a huge bonus for your heart!

Bonus tip: George Rizk, M.D., co-director of the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory and director of Cardiopulmonary/Cardiac Imaging at Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center, suggests finding small opportunities throughout your day to sneak some additional movement into your routine. “It can be as simple as parking in the farthest parking space when running errands and walking to your destination,” he said. “Or, you can take the stairs instead of the elevator.”

EAT A HEART-HEALTHY DIET

Eating more fruits and vegetables can cut cravings for higher-fat foods, such as meats, cheeses and snack foods. In addition, fruits and veggies contain substances that may help prevent heart disease. Darker fruits, such as blueberries, apples and grapes, are high in antioxidants, which are especially good for the heart.

Nuts, whole grains, skinless white meat poultry, and seafood rich in omega-3 fatty acids (think salmon) are high-protein, heart-healthy diet choices. Stay away from empty calories, such as processed foods, desserts and snack foods made from white flour. In addition, avoid high-sugar soft drinks, as well as trans fats, saturated fats, and too much salt and sodium.

Northern Arizona Healthcare Welcomes New Doctor to Cardiovascular Institute Sleep Clinic

Blirjon Baxhija, M.D., has joined the Cardiovascular Institute Sleep Clinic, serving Northern Arizona Healthcare patients in Flagstaff and Cottonwood. Dr. Baxhija specializes in internal and sleep medicine. He currently is accepting new patients.

“NAH knows how important it is to offer specialty services to the communities we serve, and adding a specialized sleep medicine physician to our roster will allow for more Northern Arizona residents to get the very best care, close to home,” said Northern Arizona Healthcare Medical Group President Pasquale Bernardi, M.D.

Dr. Baxhija earned his medical degree from Ross University School of Medicine in Dominica and his undergraduate degree from Brooklyn College in New York. He completed his residency in internal medicine at NCH Healthcare System in Naples, Florida, and a postgraduate fellowship from the University of New Mexico’s School of Medicine in Albuquerque. He is board-certified in internal medicine and board-eligible for sleep medicine.

The Cardiovascular Institute Sleep Clinic provides consultations, sleep study interpretation, CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure), BIPAP (Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure, Home Sleep Apnea Testing (HSAT) and supplemental oxygen therapy among other services. QCBN

Clinics are located at 1759 E. Villa Dr., Suite 313 in Cottonwood and 2000 S. Thompson St. in Flagstaff. To schedule an appointment in Cottonwood, call 928-639-5095, to schedule an appointment

in Flagstaff, call 928-226-6430. For more information about NAH sleep services, visit https://www.nahealth.com/cardiovascular-services/sleep-medicine/. Blirjon Baxhija, M.D

Ask your healthcare provider about the Mediterranean diet, DASH Diet, and other popular heart-healthy plans. You’ll find a wealth of information about them online as well.

MONITOR YOUR ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION

You may have seen recent headlines that the U.S. Surgeon General has issued a health advisory regarding alcoholic beverages. While the warning specifically links alcohol consumption to an increased risk for cancer, it’s important to remember that excessive alcohol use can also interfere with a healthy heart, leading to obesity, high blood pressure, heart failure or stroke.

“The bottom line is, if you don’t drink, don’t start. If you do, stick to moderate levels,” said Dr. Rizk. “That translates to an average of one drink several times a week for women and one or two for men,” he said. “But it’s important to remember that a drink might be less than you think. The rule of thumb is 12 ounces of beer, 4 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof spirits.”

Your healthcare provider can help you weigh the benefits and risks of consuming alcohol in moderation.

ELIMINATE TOBACCO USE

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that “smoking is a major cause of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and is responsible for one in every four deaths from CVD. Quitting smoking can protect people from cardiovascular disease and death.”

However, experts agree that any kind of tobacco use is bad for your health. Using smokeless tobacco can also increase your risk for death from heart disease and stroke.

If you’re ready to show your heart some love by quitting tobacco, a great first step is to check out the Arizona Department of Health Services Ash Line at www.azdhs.gov/ashline. They even offer ‘Quit Coaching’ with a trained, experienced coach.

The staff at Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center reminds you to stay active, eat well, and be healthy this Valentine’s Day and always. For more information about heart services at YRMC, visit DignityHealth.org/ YRMC. QCBN

For more information about Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center and the many services it offers, including Nutrition Counseling and Diabetes Education, visit yrmc.org.

NAH Seeking Volunteers

Northern Arizona Healthcare (NAH) is looking for community members to become a pivotal part of “Team NAH.” According to a news release, volunteers, along with their time and talent, are crucial to providing exceptional care to NAH patients and visitors.

Volunteers are needed at both Flagstaff Medical Center and Verde Valley Medical Center. NAH representatives say volunteers are matched with an assignment that fits their interests, abilities and schedule. Examples of volunteer opportunities include assisting in surgery waiting rooms, supporting the Taylor House family lodging in Flagstaff and playing music for patients and visitors.

Those interested in a volunteer position must commit to a minimum of six months or 50 hours of volunteer work. For more information, visit https:// www.nahealth.com/volunteer-services/. QCBN

JAMES-MARCO continued from page 26

Ashley Tarver said the center aims to provide a luxury experience for every patient.

The center’s model also eliminates long waits, offering same-day appointments. James notes that her personal experience with naturopathic care cured an illness that Western medicine could not and inspired her belief in a multifaceted approach to wellness.

“I didn’t want prescription drugs, and acupuncture cured me,” she said. “I love having Western medicine, naturopathic and Chinese medicine under one roof. It shows that we have something for everyone.” QCBN

For more information, call James-Marco Health at 928-212-1479.

Can Hearing Loss Be Fixed?

By Jeff Lane, Au.D.

After being diagnosed with hearing loss, many patients ask, “Can it be fixed?” While the question is simple, the answer can be quite complicated. It depends on multiple factors. For the majority of patients, the answer is, unfortunately, no. However, there are certain situations when medical intervention can help. Being aware of when a hearing loss may or may not be medically treatable, and why, can help you take better care of your auditory system.

CONDUCTIVE HEARING LOSS

The ear can be divided into three sections: outer, middle and inner. The outer ear consists of the pinna, ear canal and eardrum, while the middle ear is comprised of the middle ear cavity and ossicles (bones). Sound-

waves are captured by the pinna and filtered through the ear canal to the eardrum. The eardrum vibrates, stimulating the ossicles, which in turn act like pistons and conduct the vibrations to the cochlea. If a breakdown occurs anywhere along this pathway, it is referred to as a conductive hearing loss. Certain types of conductive losses can be treated.

Perhaps the simplest version of a conductive hearing loss is one caused by an ear infection. The soundwave travels down the ear canal, but meets resistance from the fluid in the middle ear cavity. Thus, the signal becomes weaker and more difficult to hear. A doctor can prescribe medication that clears up the fluid and hearing returns to normal. Chronic ear infections can be addressed with pressure equalization tubes. In other situations, the ossicles

If a breakdown occurs anywhere along this pathway, it is referred to as a conductive hearing loss. Certain types of conductive losses can be treated.

may be affected. They can become weak or fused in certain areas. For these patients, surgery is an option. A surgeon can replace the affected bones with prostheses. Once the bones are moving normally again, the soundwave can resume normal transition. However, it should be noted that some surgeries may not be successful and that even successful surgeries do not guarantee normal hearing. But they can offer improvement.

In some cases, patients can have a mixed hearing loss. This means the hearing loss affects both the middle and inner ear. Again, there is a chance that the middle ear condition can be treated, but the inner ear condition remains. Thus, there would still be residual hearing loss after treatment of the middle ear, but it would not be as severe.

SENSORINEURAL HEARING LOSS

The inner ear consists of the cochlea and the auditory nerve. The cochlea is filled with fluid, which vibrates when stimulated by the ossicles. This fluid then causes stereocilia, or hair cells, to sway back and forth. Swaying releases chemicals that are converted into electrical impulses, which travel up the auditory never to the brain.

Hearing losses in this area are classified as sensorineural (sensory cells or the nerve). Sensorineural hearing loss are generally untreatable and are managed with a hearing aid or cochlear implant.

Why are they untreatable? Stereocilia can become damaged or die because of natural aging, noise exposure or strong medications. Genetics or syndromic conditions also can be a cause. At any rate, once the stereocilia are gone, they cannot regenerate. Thus, while the soundwave travels along the auditory pathway appropriately, it is not able to be transduced into a nerve signal. In essence, the signal hits a dead end.

While research is always being done, scientists have yet to successfully restore hearing in hum ans. One issue is sustainability. The stereocilia can be artificially grown, but then die off again. Another difficulty is that the auditory system is very intricately designed. The new stereocilia are unable to properly communicate with the auditory nerve, rendering them ineffective.

However, there is a small subset of sensorineural hearing losses that can sometimes be medically treated: sudden losses.

Sudden losses happen very immediately (rather than over time). Studies show that steroid treatment can help to reverse the effects of a sudden loss. However, it is only about a 33% chance. And to have the best chance of working, the medication should be administered within 72 hours. If you experience a sudden loss, call an ENT immediately.

HOPE ON THE HORIZON

As I stated before, research is always being done on hearing loss. Researchers recently developed a test that can detect whether babies have a genetic change that make them more susceptible to hearing loss if treated with the antibiotic Gentamicin. To be clear, they are preventing damage, not repairing it. Still, it offers hope for greater developments in the future. QCBN

Trinity Hearing Center is located at 1330 N. Rim Dr., Suite B in Flagstaff. For more information, visit the website at TrinityHearing. net. Jeff Lane is a doctor of audiology with a passion for improving the lives of others. Dr. Lane may be reached at 928-522-0500 or at audio@trinityhearing.net.

Igniting Change: How California Wildfires Could Impact Arizona Fire Insurance

By Kayla Stazenski

As wildfires rage across California year after year, the consequences extend far beyond its borders. For homeowners, these fires may have significant implications, particularly when it comes to fire insurance. Arizona homeowners may soon feel the impact across state lines as legislators and insurance regulators respond to growing challenges in managing fire risk and providing coverage.

Wildfire-related insurance claims in California – totaling billions annually – have prompted a scramble. When insurers experience substantial losses, they typically respond in one or more ways: increasing premiums, tightening underwriting standards or withdrawing coverage altogether in high-risk areas. California’s fire crisis has already caused some insurers to exit the state or drastically limit their coverage. This exodus forces remaining companies to absorb more risk, potentially driving up costs for all policyholders, including those in neighboring Arizona. As insurers grapple with massive losses, they often reassess their risk models for states like Arizona, where wildfire risks

are also present. The dry climate, high temperatures and increasing development near wildfire-prone areas make it a key state for insurers to monitor.

In Arizona, the most immediate impact may be higher fire insurance premiums. Even for homeowners in areas not directly threatened by wildfires, insurers could implement statewide rate increases to offset their California losses. Additionally, stricter coverage requirements may emerge. Arizona homeowners might be required to take additional fire-mitigation measures, such as clearing vegetation around their properties or installing fire-resistant materials, to qualify for coverage. There’s also the risk of a reduced insurance market. If insurers decide that Arizona’s fire risk is too great –intensified by California’s losses – they could limit policy options in high-risk areas. This could leave some homeowners struggling to find affordable or comprehensive fire insurance.

The real estate market has already felt the impact of this situation in the previous months, only to be exacerbated by the most recent conditions in California. Realtors and real estate professionals in the Quad Cities area

and across Northern Arizona have expressed the difficulties they have faced when it comes to homebuyers being able to find coverage. There are still local insurance providers that have been able to assist homebuyers, but premiums are higher and coverage can be increasingly difficult to come by.

With many buyers coming from California, they often have a property there that needs to sell before moving. Sales have started to fall through for buyers, as their purchases are contingent on selling a property in California for which the buyers there can’t get coverage on. For now, most buyers in this area are able to get coverage at the time of purchase, but that could be a different conversation when it comes to renewal or new policies later down the line.

Fire-insurance insecurity will continue to play a role in our communities as insurers make adjustments in response to recent circumstances in the neighboring state of California. In 2025, legislators and real estate professionals alike will play key roles in both protecting and educating consumers when it comes to fire-insurance coverage. In the meantime, it is crucial for home-

owners to understand the importance of being prepared and taking their own measures to protect their homes in an environment prone to wildfires. Make sure to follow Firewise guidelines to make your home and surrounding areas less susceptible to fire and have a plan in the case of an emergency. A realtor can provide resources and guidance not only when you want to

Sustainable Quad Cities: Businesses Committed to a Greener Tomorrow

Find out how neighbors and businesses are practicing eco-friendly living across the Quad Cities

• Discover local sustainability efforts.

• Explore strategies for eco-friendly living.

• Learn about businesses leading the way in green practices.

• Hear expert insights on renewable energy, conservation and eco-friendly products. Be part of the Quad Cities sustainable future movement! Advertise in our Sustainability section in the QCBN March and April issues to showcase your commitment to ecofriendly practices and connect with environmentally conscious consumers.

To be part of this issue, call: Linda Thein, Advertising Manager 602 | 799 | 0583 Linda@quadcitiesbusinessnews.com

purchase a home, but in protecting the one you already own and love. QCBN

Kayla Stazenski is a local REALTOR at Better Homes and Gardens Bloomtree Realty. She is the 2025 President of the Prescott Area Association of REALTORS (PAAR). For additional information or to contact PAAR, visit www.paar.org.

QC pet news

Posh Paws and Playtime: Wags Pet Resort Sets Tail-Wagging Standard

By Stan Bindell, QCBN

Wags Pet Resort and Luxury Hotel in Prescott Valley is pampering pooches with a unique blend of top-tier boarding, energetic playtime, grooming, and tailored training. It also delivers priceless peace of mind for pet parents. From the moment clients step into the vibrant lobby, they’re greeted with a video screen showcasing pups frolicking in the doggy playrooms. A comfy chair in the lobby aptly proclaims “Dog kisses fix everything.”

“We’re catching our breath after the bustling holiday season,” said General Manager Kerry Hunt. The post-holiday calm in January and February brings a steady stream of dog owners using the resort’s popular playrooms. Hunt, now entering her third year at Wags, recalls the early days when only five dogs roamed the facility. These days, they host as many as 100 dogs daily.

“We’re continuing to grow, and we broke our record for the holidays,” she said.

Hunt’s expertise in the luxury hotel industry pairs seamlessly with owner Brandy Drey’s deep knowledge of the pet care business. Drey, who has operated a Wags facility in Iowa for

a decade, joined forces with Hunt to expand into Arizona, forming what Hunt calls a “perfect partnership.”

This dynamic duo’s vision has led

to a stellar reputation, with Wags now serving more than 3,000 customers annually and welcoming an average of 25 new clients each week.

The facility’s four tailored playrooms – including a designated training room – cater to dogs’ temperaments, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. “We find out which dogs can get along,” Hunt said. “We’re the only one in the area with both indoor and outdoor play areas.

If it’s raining or snowing, the dogs come home clean.”

Half-day play sessions, running either from 7 a.m.-noon or 1-6 p.m., are perfect for seniors who drop off their furry companions while running errands. Dogs less inclined to mingle can enjoy day-boarding, which offers them a comfortable space of their own.

The state-of-the-art 96-suite facility features options ranging from VIP accommodations to deluxe suites for quieter pets. Some suites include cameras, allowing owners to peek in on their dogs. Grooming services, another sought-after feature, leave pets looking and feeling their best.

Wags employs 18 staff members and plans to grow alongside the community. The facility also partners with local shelters, supporting many dogs who once called a shelter home. Hunt finds immense satisfaction in

mentoring young employees, many of whom begin their careers at Wags and go on to become pet technicians or pursue other roles in the pet care industry.

“Some think they’re just going to play with dogs all day, but this is hard work,” Hunt said. “Fun work, but work. I love helping kids figure out their place in the pet industry.”

Above all, safety is the top priority, with Wags maintaining close ties to local veterinarians to ensure any health issues are promptly addressed. “We always err on the side of safety for dogs,” she said.

Hunt’s passion for teaching stems from her time as an elementary school teacher. She takes pride in helping others grow professionally. She’s particularly inspired by her assistant manager, who dreams of opening his own shelter.

“We enjoy the dogs and we’re here to support the community,” she said.

QCBN

For more information, call 928-923-6751.

The work culture at Wags is designed to encourage professional development and continue to improve the client experience. Anita Rosario brainstorms new year’s resolutions. Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

Wags General Manager Kerry Hunt and Aly Warren make guests like Max feel welcome.

Love is a Four-Legged Word

By Loree Walden

There’s a saying that goes “Love is a four-legged word,” and for those of us lucky enough to share our lives with a dog, we know how true this is. As Valentine’s Day approaches, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the unique and unconditional love that our furry companions give us every day. Dogs are not just pets; they are family, best friends, and loyal confidants who fill our lives with joy, laughter and comfort.

One of the most endearing qualities of a dog’s love is its absolute purity. No matter how tough your day has been, your dog is always there to greet you with a wagging tail and warm eyes, offering comfort without judgment. They have an incredible way of making us feel valued and special. They celebrate the smallest moments with unmatched enthusiasm – a walk around the block, a tossed ball or even just sitting beside us on the couch. This Valentine’s Day, take a moment to appreciate those little moments of joy that your dog brings into your life. After all, love isn’t just about grand gestures; it’s about the small, everyday moments that build an unbreakable bond.

For many, a dog’s love has been a

source of healing and renewal. Dogs have an innate ability to sense our emotions and provide comfort when we need it most. Their presence can be a relief for loneliness, anxiety or heartache. They don’t ask for much in return – a pat on the head, a belly rub or a treat is enough to make their tails wag with happiness. Their ability to give so much while asking for so little is a beautiful reminder of what love should be: selfless and kind.

Valentine’s Day is traditionally a time for romantic love, but it’s also a chance to celebrate all the relationships that bring meaning to our lives. Why not include your dog in your Valentine’s Day celebrations? Plan a special day that’s all about them. Start with a scenic hike or a visit to their favorite park. Treat them to a homemade meal or a special dog-safe treat shaped like a heart. And don’t forget to take a few extra minutes for cuddles and playtime – your dog will love every second.

Dogs also teach us valuable lessons about love. They remind us to live in the moment and appreciate the here and now. While we often get caught up in the busyness of life, dogs are content with the simple things – a patch of sun to nap in, a cool breeze or the sound of our voice. They show

us that love doesn’t have to be complicated; it just needs to be genuine.

This Valentine’s Day, let’s celebrate the love that dogs bring into our lives by giving back to them and to the canine community. If you’re able, consider donating to your local animal shelter or volunteering your time to help dogs in need. Many dogs are waiting for their forever homes, and your support can make a world of difference.

If you don’t currently have a dog, perhaps this is the perfect time to open your heart to a new furry friend. Adopting a dog is a commitment, but it’s one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. The love of a rescue dog is truly one-of-a-kind; they seem to understand you’ve given them a second chance and their gratitude shines through in every wag of their tail and every snuggle.

For those who already have a dog, Valentine’s Day is a wonderful excuse to shower them with even more love and attention. Remember, your dog’s time with you is finite and every moment is precious. Take a break from your busy life to show your furry best friend how much they mean to you. Whether it’s extra playtime, a longer walk or just sitting together and enjoying each other’s company, your

dog will feel the love. In a world that can sometimes feel uncertain and chaotic, the love of a dog is a constant reminder of all that is good and pure. So, here’s to the dogs who fill our hearts with love and our lives with joy. Happy Valentine’s Day

to all the pups out there and to the people who are lucky enough to be

a four-legged word. QCBN

Levitating Your Healing, Wellness Journey with Oxygen Therapy

HBy Scott Pettinger

yperbaric Oxygen Thera-

py (HBOT) is a powerful, non-invasive treatment that uses 100% medical-grade oxygen in a pressurized chamber to promote healing and recovery. By delivering oxygen at two to three times normal atmospheric pressure, HBOT enhances the body’s natural ability to repair tissues, fight infections and

reduce inflammation. This therapy is a safe and effective solution for those seeking relief from chronic wounds, injuries and various health conditions.

The roots of HBOT date back to the 1600s when early scientists began exploring the effects of pressurized air on the body. Modern hyperbaric therapy became more widely recognized in the 20th century as a treatment for decompression sickness

in divers. Today, it is a cutting-edge medical procedure with applications in wound care, neurological recovery, and overall wellness. The science behind HBOT lies in its ability to increase oxygen concentration in the blood and tissues, stimulating cell regeneration, reducing inflammation and supporting the body’s natural healing processes.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is recognized for treating a wide range of medical conditions, many of which are detailed below.

WOUND CARE, HEALING

ƒ Diabetic foot ulcers

By delivering pure oxygen in a pressurized environment, HBOT promotes recovery, enhances wellness and supports your body’s natural ability to heal. Whether you’re facing a chronic issue or seeking to improve overall health, HBOT provides a safe and effective path to wellness.

ƒ Chronic refractory osteomyelitis (bone infection)

ƒ Compromised skin grafts or flaps

ƒ Radiation tissue damage (osteoradionecrosis, soft tissue radionecrosis)

ƒ Surgical wounds or traumatic injuries

VASCULAR HEALTH & CIRCULATION

ƒ Acute peripheral arterial insufficiency

ƒ Gas gangrene

ƒ Progressive necrotizing infections (e.g., necrotizing fasciitis)

ƒ Crush injuries or sutured severed limbs

ƒ Venous insufficiency

NEUROLOGICAL CONDITIONS, RECOVERY

ƒ Stroke recovery

ƒ Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)

ƒ Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)

ƒ Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)

ƒ Post-stroke motor and cognitive impairments

INFECTIONS & IMMUNE SUPPORT

ƒ Actinomycosis (rare bacterial infection)

ƒ Carbon monoxide poisoning

ƒ Cyanide poisoning

ƒ Decompression sickness (diver’s sickness)

ƒ Severe infections with tissue damage

OTHER POTENTIAL BENEFITS OF HBOT INCLUDE

ƒ Anti-aging

ƒ Enhanced athletic performance and recovery

ƒ Reduced oxidative stress

ƒ Improved sleep

ƒ Improved immune function

ƒ Support for mental health including depression, anxiety, and PTSD

ƒ Detoxification

ƒ Increased energy

ƒ Improved overall well-being

By delivering pure oxygen in a pressurized environment, HBOT promotes recovery, enhances wellness and supports your body’s natural ability to heal. Whether you’re facing a chronic issue or seeking to improve overall health, HBOT provides a safe and effective path to wellness. QCBN

Scott Pettinger is a flight paramedic, HBOT Technician and co-owner of Mile High Hyperbarics located at 6520 E 2nd Street, Suite A, Prescott Valley, AZ 86314. He can be reached at www.MileHighHyperbarics. com, 928-547-1940, or milehighhyperbarics@gmail.com.

loved by them. Because at the end of the day, love truly is

Loree Walden is the marketing manager for Yavapai Humane Society.

Paragon Plumbing Offering Skill, Experience, Customer Service, Emergency Support

Welcome to “At Home With Tom and Sandy.” We are here to give you the inside scoop and tips on everything A to Z for your home and we love talking about the construction industry. Settle in, enjoy and have fun reading our column. We sure do enjoy sharing our words with you. Thanks for being such loyal and great readers.

Sandy: Hi Tom! We are back again, and this month I want to introduce Andy Ulibarri, the owner of Paragon Plumbing to our readers.

Tom: Great! I have known and worked with Andy for many years, prior to him becoming the new owner of Paragon Plumbing, and he is a great guy.

Sandy: That is super cool that you know each other. Welcome, Andy.

Andy: Thanks, Sandy and Tom, for inviting me to the conversation. I have read many of your columns for a long time now and am glad to be a part of your conversation.

Sandy: Then let’s start with a little bit of your background so our readers will get to know you. Where are you from?

Andy: I am a third generation Prescottonian. I graduated from Prescott High school.

Tom: Awesome. Not many of you guys around. What made you want to be a plumber?

Andy: Well, I got my start working for Bob Twombley during the summer of my junior year in high school. When I graduated, I went to work full time and learned the trade.

Sandy: Old-school learning. I love to hear that. Our trades sorely need that commitment, from both men and women!

Tom: Right on, Sandy. So, tell us the story of how you came to be the owner of Paragon Plumbing. We love to hear about success stories.

Andy: I worked with Bob up until he sold his company to Yavapai Plumbing and Electrical. That was when Don Huntley started Paragon Plumbing back in 2002. I was one of Don’s first employees. We worked together for 20 years.

Sandy: When it came time for Don to retire, you bought a slightly used,

well-oiled plumbing company from him, correct?

Andy: Yes. Don and his wife wanted to move to Montana to be closer to where their sons live.

Tom: Family is important, for sure. How do you like having the business to yourself? All the years of doing is different from owning, but still working.

Andy: I love owning the company. Yes, the challenges are different, but knowing plumbing and all that entails really helps me focus on the issues that really matter.

Sandy: Let’s get into the meat of what Paragon Plumbing’s services include.

Andy: We are a full-service plumbing company. We do commercial and residential plumbing as well as service work. Repairs and replacements are part of what we do also. And we have 24/7 emergency services.

Tom: That is a great array of services. Truly a full service company. The emergency service component from a reliable local company has got to put your customers at ease.

Andy: It provides a good service to the community for sure. We wanted to be sure our team could cover all the bases.

Sandy: Tell us more about your team.

Andy: We have a great group of people that are all very professional and knowledgeable. We have been together for 20 years. We are more like friends and family than just work mates. Most of us socialize with each other outside of work.

Sandy: Wow! That makes for a solid team.

Tom: A solid team makes for great customer service. The sharing of knowledge and skill is part of that as well.

Andy: Thanks. Yes, it is. From office management, scheduling and the skill set we have, there isn’t much we can’t accomplish for our customers. Our group is truly a great team. We have our roles, some unique, but we all strive to support each other and focus on meeting the customer’s needs.

Sandy: Let’s spend some of our time here on the specific services

Paragon Plumbing provides.

Andy: OK, as I mentioned earlier, we do both commercial and residential plumbing. We do new construction plumbing systems for both as well as repairs such as leaks, broken lines, changing water heaters, to name a few. We also have a service component where we will clear sewer backups and change out broken fixtures, or work with our customers to upgrade their plumbing fixtures.

Tom: If someone wants to upgrade fixtures, do you assist them with making choices?

Andy: We sure do. We will meet with them at a showroom to help or if the upgrade is a simple one, such as a faucet, we have catalogs that we can bring to them and help folks decide what they may want.

Sandy: That is excellent customer service for certain.

Andy: Everyone I have ever worked with, from Bob to Don, has always had great customer service; in a way, we all have worked together for so long, the entire team has had great customer service training.

Tom: Great customer service, excellent skill sets across the board, longevity of the team working together for 20 years – sounds to me like Para-

gon Plumbing has all the ingredients of a great company.

Andy: Thank you for that.

Sandy: Are you having the same difficulties as others in the trades in finding workers?

Andy: We are, of course, always open to good people. Our team is pretty tight knit, so finding the right fit for us might take an extra step.

Tom: How many on your team now?

Andy: We have 13 team members. We have been fortunate to bring on some new talent over the years who have really meshed with the existing team and made us all even better.

Sandy: How should our readers get ahold of you?

Andy: Phone works best, 928-7752343. Call day or night, we will get back with you.

Sandy: Andy, let’s talk about the importance of preventative maintenance.

Andy: Sandy, yes preventative maintenance is key to avoiding plumbing headaches in the long run. Our comprehensive maintenance program covers everything from flushing water heaters to hydro-jetting commercial drains. With flexible scheduling options, you can keep your

plumbing in top condition at your convenience.

Sandy: One of the forgotten preventative maintenance items, Andy, is replacing those pesky handles at the water shut off for the toilet. I receive lots of calls when a homeowner is trying to shut the water off and oops, the handle has broken off. Water going everywhere!

Andy: Those handles should be replaced annually.

Sandy: I have a gazillion other plumbing questions and really want to “flush” out some of the more common questions and problems homeowners face, so Andy will be back next month!

Andy: Looking forward to it, Tom and Sandy. Keep up the good work!

QCBN

Tom Reilly, Architect, 928-925-5692

Sandy Griffis, Executive Director, Yavapai County Contractors Association, 928-7780040

Paragon Plumbing offers commercial and residential plumbing as well as repairs and emergency services. Courtesy photo

Collaborating to Sustain a Healthy Future for Yavapai County’s Leisure and Hospitality Industry

By Teri Drew

The Leisure and Hospitality

industry plays an important role in Yavapai County’s economy, providing jobs and enriching the local culture with diverse offerings. However, recent data provided by the Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO), highlights mixed trends in this sector, underscoring both its resilience and its challenges.

In November, Arizona’s Leisure and Hospitality sector experienced robust growth, adding 3,000 jobs statewide. Year over year, the sector grew by 2,400 jobs. Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation increased statewide by 0.9% month over month and 0.7% year over year, while Accommodation and Food Services saw a significant statewide monthly growth of 3.5%, though year-over-year growth remained flat. Unfortunately, the Prescott area diverged from these positive trends. Employment in Accommodation and Food Services declined by 1.9% both month over month and year over year. This drop signals unique challenges for the local market that require targeted

attention to reverse the trend and foster growth.

According to the OEO, the average weekly direct wage in the Leisure and Hospitality sector in Yavapai County stands at $596, reflecting the industry’s traditionally lower wage structure. Despite this, the sector provides critical entry-level and seasonal employment opportunities. Growth projections for the Leisure and Hospitality industry in Yavapai County are modest. By the end of 2025, the sector is expected to grow by just 0.6%. However, looking further ahead to 2033, the industry is projected to grow by 1.1%, adding approximately 1,274 jobs. While growth remains slower than in other industries, these numbers indicate long-term potential for development.

Visitors drawn to the area’s natural beauty, historic landmarks and vibrant cultural events rely on local accommodations, dining and recreational activities, all of which are core components of this industry. The revenue generated through tourism not only boosts local businesses but also contributes to the county’s tax base, enabling further investment in infrastructure and community resources. A strong and

dynamic Leisure and Hospitality industry is essential to maintaining Yavapai County’s reputation as a premier tourist destination and ensuring the long-term sustainability of its tourism economy.

Internship programs have emerged as a key strategy to address workforce challenges and promote career pathways in the hospitality sector.

Local restaurants and hotels in the Quad Cities area have banded together to develop an internship program aimed at educating and inspiring the next generation of hospitality professionals. Spearheaded by Dick Milon, a certified SCORE mentor and previous chapter chair for Northern Arizona and supported by the owners of Farm Provisions restaurant, Founding Fathers, Essence Kitchen & Bar, Vivili Hospitality, SpringHill Suites, Torme and El Gato Azul, the Prescott Area Hospitality Collective is a collaborative effort to promote hospitality opportunities in the Quad Cities area as it continues to grow. NACOG-EWD, Yavapai College and Northern Arizona University (NAU) also are key partners in this initiative.

Students from NAU’s hospitality

program and Yavapai College are encouraged to apply for internships, which will commence in late May following the conclusion of the spring semester. These internships are designed to provide hands-on experience, foster professional growth and create a pipeline of talent to support the industry’s future needs.

The Leisure and Hospitality industry in Yavapai County holds significant potential, with some new establishments either entering or expanding in the area. To harness this potential, stakeholders are focused on enhancing training programs, career pathways to attract and retain skilled workers, and marketing initiatives that highlight Yavapai County’s unique cultural and natural

attractions. Collaboration between local government, businesses and educational institutions can also create innovative solutions to address industry demand. By integrating internship opportunities and leveraging programs like the Prescott Area Hospitality Collective, Yavapai County can address immediate challenges while building a sustainable and thriving future for its Leisure and Hospitality sector. QCBN

Teri Drew is the regional director of NACOG-EWD. For more information about job opportunities and resources available through ARIZONA@WORK – NACOG, call 928-778-1422 or visit us at 221 N Marina St. Ste. 201 Prescott, AZ 86301.

Why Do Local Companies Need to Advertise Continuously?

By Mike Jensen

Advertising is an ongoing process. Even the world’s biggest brands keep buying ads, so why wouldn’t a local business? The argument that “everyone already knows us” doesn’t hold up. Just because consumers recognize a company doesn’t mean it’s top of mind or valued.

The truth is, people forget quickly and have short attention spans. We’re bombarded with ads daily, yet if you ask someone to name a specific brand in a category, they often draw a blank. People need regular reminders to recall a business, especially as markets and companies evolve.

THE POWER OF AUDIO ADVERTISING

To make advertising work, businesses must focus on two things: 1) Who do they want to reach? 2) How often do they want to reach them?

Frequency is key to retention and recall. Research shows people need to hear or see something multiple times before it sticks. Audio advertising, like radio, excels in this area. Studies reveal that audio creates stronger emotional connections and memories compared to other media. Radio ads evoke emotional intensity, leading to better engagement and recall.

Additionally, concerns about ad overexposure, or “creative wear out,” are rare in radio if the messaging

Markets don’t stay static. New competitors constantly emerge, vying for market share. Businesses that advertise consistently maintain their presence and fend off newcomers.

is effective. Updating ad content periodically can boost results, but frequent radio ads are vital because only a small portion of listeners immediately need a product or service.

STAYING TOP OF MIND

Most people who hear an ad aren’t actively shopping for that product or service. But when the time comes – like needing a plumber in an emergency – they’ll likely remember the business they’ve heard consistently on their favorite station.

Longtime businesses shouldn’t assume everyone knows them just because they’ve been around for years. Continuous advertising keeps them relevant and ensures they’re the first choice when customers are ready to buy.

ADAPTING TO CHANGING MARKETS

Markets don’t stay static. New competitors constantly emerge, vying for market share. Businesses that advertise consistently maintain their presence and fend off newcomers.

Population shifts are another factor. People are moving more than

ever because of remote work and cost-of-living changes. New residents don’t know local businesses and start as a blank slate. Radio is an ideal way to introduce these newcomers to local companies, giving them a unique advantage over national brands.

For example, a local pest control company regularly advertised on radio and achieved greater awareness than national competitors. According to a Westwood One study, AM/FM listeners had the strongest recall of this local business, proving the power of continuous advertising.

BUSINESSES EVOLVE, TOO

Just as markets change, businesses grow and adapt. Whether it’s launching new products, expanding services or opening locations, companies need to communicate these updates to the public. Relying solely on existing customers or limited outreach won’t cut it.

Radio’s broad reach helps businesses share their news with a larger audience, driving awareness and attracting new customers.

RADIO: THE FOUNDATION OF CONTINUOUS ADVERTISING

Continuous advertising is crucial, and radio should be at its heart. While digital platforms can amplify messages, radio delivers the local presence and impact needed to make businesses thrive.

The next time someone questions the value of advertising, share these insights. Consistent radio advertising isn’t just a strategy – it’s a necessity for staying top of mind, adapting to change and growing in competitive markets. QCBN

Mike Jensen is the regional director of sales and marketing at Yavapai Broadcasting in Central and Northern Arizona, overseeing stations 95.9 KKLD, 105.7 KVRD, 100.1 KVNA, 96.3 KYBC, and ESPN Radio 104.7 in Flagstaff. With more than 25 years of experience in media broadcasting and advertising across the country, Mike is passionate about helping businesses grow through impactful radio advertising and digital marketing. He focuses on delivering results, boosting brand visibility and building strong, lasting partnerships for success.

The Three-Month Rule: How De Beers Shaped Engagement Traditions

By Jim Carlisto

Few traditions in engagement culture are as pervasive as the “three-month rule,” which suggests spending three months’ salary on a diamond engagement ring. This widely accepted guideline has shaped societal expectations, influencing how couples approach one of the most significant purchases of their lives. Yet, the origins of this tradition reveal it to be less about love and more about marketing brilliance.

The three-month rule originated in the 1930s as part of a groundbreaking campaign by De Beers, a diamond mining company. Facing plummeting sales during the Great Depression, De Beers sought to revive the diamond market by redefining its cultural significance. The company revolutionized advertising by linking diamonds with love, commitment and romance. Their campaign’s tagline, “A diamond is forever,” positioned

The company revolutionized advertising by linking diamonds with love, commitment and romance.

the gemstone as the ultimate symbol of eternal devotion.

Initially, De Beers suggested that prospective grooms spend one month’s salary on an engagement ring. This figure was carefully chosen to balance accessibility and exclusivity, ensuring that diamonds remained desirable but not unattainable. The strategy worked. Diamonds became synonymous with engagement, and their cultural significance grew steadily throughout the mid20th century.

Over time, this clever marketing approach evolved into a societal standard. By the 1980s, the salary guideline had doubled, with jewelers and advertisers recommending that buyers allocate two months of income to the ring. This change reflected the increasing consumerism of the era and the growing association of status with material possessions.

By the 1990s, the now-familiar “three-month rule” was firmly entrenched, bolstered by advertising campaigns, pop culture and high-profile celebrity engagements. This rule significantly influenced consumer habits, making diamond engagement rings a must-have item for couples planning to marry. It also elevated the engagement ring from a mere token of affection to a highly scrutinized indicator of one’s love, financial commitment and social standing. Unfortunately, this expectation often placed immense pressure on individuals, equating the value of love with monetary expenditure.

For some, the demand for an extravagant ring created financial strain, turning what should be a joyful milestone into a source of stress. This commercialization of romance shifted focus away from the personal meaning of love and commitment, placing undue emphasis on public displays of wealth. In such cases, the ring’s price tag overshadowed its emotional significance.

However, cultural attitudes toward the threemonth rule have begun to shift. In recent years, many couples have challenged the necessity of adhering to this guideline. Increasingly, they prioritize experiences and personal values over material possessions. Some choose simpler, less expensive rings, while others forgo traditional engagement practices entirely. This trend reflects a broader cultural movement toward authenticity, individuality and financial prudence.

The rise of alternative engagement rings has also contributed to this shift. Lab-grown diamonds, vintage jewelry and non-traditional gemstones have gained popularity as couples seek meaningful and sustainable options. These choices not only challenge the status quo but also empower individuals to redefine what symbolizes their commitment.

This evolving perspective mirrors changes in societal priorities. Young er generations in particular are less inclined to measure love in dollars or karats. Instead, they focus on building meaningful connections and creating

shared experiences. The rejection of the threemonth rule signifies a growing resistance to outdated norms, giving couples the freedom to design traditions that align with their values. Nevertheless, the three-month rule remains a testament to De Beers’ marketing genius. Few campaigns in history have wielded such enduring influence, embedding themselves in the fabric of modern culture. Despite its problematic implications, the rule’s longevity underscores the power of advertising to shape societal behaviors and perceptions.

As conversations around engagement traditions continue to evolve, more people are questioning the pressures and expectations imposed by the three-month rule. Love and commitment, after all, are deeply personal and cannot be accurately measured by the cost of a ring. In embracing individuality and authenticity, couples are redefining what it means to celebrate love in the modern era. QCBN

As the owner of Raskin’s Jewelers, Jim Carlisto, a member of the esteemed Carlisto family, remains unwaveringly committed to upholding their founding values, guaranteeing exceptional service to each patron. With over 16 years of profound experience in the jewelry realm, Jim’s steadfast devotion lies in maintaining unparalleled standards, placing paramount importance on customer satisfaction. 110 W Gurley St Prescott, AZ 86301

Prescott 2025: A Year of Growth, Safety, Strategic Planning

As we begin the new year, I am happy to report that The State of the City demonstrates a vibrant, dynamic economy maintaining strong taxable activity and economic development, as we plan for improving public safety services for our citizens.

With the passage of Prop 478 in November 2024, the result will be a safer Prescott. Your Yes vote adopted a dedicated transaction privilege (sales) tax of ninety-five hundredths of one percent (0.95%) to fund new fire stations, police evidence facilities, equipment and staffing to operate them. It’s important to note that once the capital expenses are complete, the rate will reduce to 0.75% by December 2035, or sooner.

During the past year, we have filled all key leadership positions at the city. We welcomed City Manager Dallin Kimble, Deputy City Manager Michael Morris, Airport Director Rick Crider and Library Director Melissa Orr.

Late in the year, Council established three goals for 2025. These include location and construction planning for two new fire stations and a new police evidence facility, addressing and establishing workforce housing policies, and targeted economic development efforts to attract new businesses and support expanding existing businesses.

The 2025 General Plan will be reviewed by Council this spring. Then it will go on the ballot for August 2025. Required by state statute every 10 years, this important document sets the city’s direction for land use for the coming decade. Thank you to all of the committee members, staff and citizens who helped get this final draft ready for review.

Work has begun on a Long-Term Water Management Plan, thanks in part to a grant received from the Bureau of Reclamation for study and development. This plan will be data driven, using data from our Water Resources Management Model (WRMM).

The financial health of the city continues to be strong. Overall, as of November 2024, city taxable activity revenues were about even with the previous year. Revenue from Construction, Rentals and Online Retail Sales were all up in 2025. Retail sales, Restaurants and bars, Hotels and Motels and all other businesses ticked down slightly. Transient Occupancy, or Bed Tax Collections, are showing modest declines. This is consistent with other rural tourism destinations around the state and it is something we will continue to keep an eye on.

Moving on to development in the City of Prescott, there has been a 62% increase in singl- family building permits, jumping from 222 in 2023 to 360 in 2024. More than 950 units of single-family housing and over 1,500 units of multifamily residential projects are in review or under development. Our new interactive development map is now available on the city website. This is a great tool for monitoring ongoing commercial and residential development around the city.

There is nearly 300,000 square feet of commercial space under development, including the Auto Mall at Deepwell Ranch, anchored by a 36,000-squarefoot Hyundai dealership, with three more dealerships planned. The Embry-Riddle Strategic Academic Flight Education (or SAFE) complex continues to be developed at Prescott Airport, while The Assembly at Old City Hall, a 104 Room Hotel, will begin work downtown.

I’d like to take a moment to recap some of Prescott’s highlights and accomplishments. First and foremost, the passage of Prop 478 will have huge benefits to the city, ensuring faster response times and a higher level of safety in our community.

At the Prescott Regional Airport,

I’m pleased to report that the city has received a $3.1 million Arizona Department of Transportation grant to reimburse the city for land purchases to enhance airport protections. We have also acquired land for future runway expansion efforts. We have renewed the essential air service contract with Sky West operating as United Airlines, continuing service to Denver and Los Angeles. We will continue to pursue airport protection land acquisition and grant opportunities and we will look forward to the initial planning phase for construction of a new air traffic control tower.

As we were reminded during December’s unanticipated closure, the SR 89 Traffic Improvement Project is of the utmost importance. Work will continue on this, as a citizen committee will review and rank options to address how best to design the roadway north of the Willow Lake Roundabout. Council will consider options for SR 89 in 2025, and final planning will begin.

Finally, the city will engage citizens and the Prescott Frontier Days committee to establish a city-led master plan for the rodeo grounds.

The rodeo grounds are an

important city asset that must be used wisely. We expect a judicial decision on a $15.3 million FY23 state budget allocation.

In closing, here are some final comments that I would like to leave you with as we enter 2025.

As a border state, Arizona may be subject to federal policies that could have a significant impact on Northern Arizona municipalities. We need flexibility in planning and response to these likely conditions. With the significant development of new high-tech companies, Arizona is experiencing unprecedented economic growth. Prescott is well positioned to benefit from this increased economic activity. The I-17 widening and flex lane project is expected to be completed soon in 2025, making travel between Prescott and the Valley more reliable than ever.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your mayor, as we look forward to city activity this year. You can view the entire video presentation and slideshow on the State of the City on the City’s Facebook page, YouTube channel or on the city website. QCBN

Phil Goode is the mayor of Prescott.

Navigating the Homebuying Process with the Right Team

By Greg Riordan

Purchasing a home is one of the most significant milestones in life. I’ve seen firsthand how choosing the right team can make all the difference. Partnering with a trusted lender and realtor turns what might seem like an overwhelming process into a seamless experience. This way you can enjoy the process, instead of stressing over what is an exciting new endeavor!

Buying a home involves making impactful decisions, and having reliable experts by your side to guide you every step of the way is invaluable. The right realtor and lender aren’t just there to facilitate the process; they provide clarity, confidence and support.

FINDING THE RIGHT REALTOR

Your realtor plays a pivotal role in the homebuying process. Don’t feel pressured to settle for the first one you meet. Instead, lean on referrals from family and friends who’ve had positive experiences. Your lender can also connect you with reputable realtors who understand your needs. A good realtor should:

ƒ Walk you through the entire homebuying process, from start to finish.

ƒ Be responsive to your questions and concerns.

ƒ Schedule showings for homes that truly align with your preferences and needs.

At Legacy Mutual Mortgage, we’re proud of the strong relationships we’ve built with experienced realtors. If you’re unsure where to start, I’d be happy to connect you with someone.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT LENDER

Equally important is selecting a lender who will prioritize your financial well-being and work diligently to simplify the mortgage process. You want someone who not only has the expertise but also the commitment to make the process as smooth and transparent as possible.

When you choose Legacy Mutual Mortgage, you’re choosing a lender dedicated to guiding you through the complexities of mortgage loans. We’re firm believers in the power of communication; no one likes surprises when it comes to financing their dream home. When you choose me or any loan officer at Legacy Mutual

Mortgage, you’ll receive:

ƒ Clear and consistent communication.

ƒ A streamlined process that minimizes stress.

ƒ Personalized service tailored to your unique needs and goals. With Legacy, we’re more than just a lender and you are more than just a transaction. Let us help you navigate this exciting chapter with confidence and ease. Together, we’ll make your

dream home a reality. QCBN

Greg Riordan is a loan officer with Legacy Mutual Mortgage. For additional information or to get in touch with Greg, visit legacymutual.com/officers/greg-riordan or call 928-427-5156. You may find his office at 325 W Gurley St #102, Prescott, AZ 86301. Greg cares about the people that choose to trust him with the biggest asset in their lives – their home.

He will give straight, honest answers with exceptional advice, whether you are refinancing your home to pay off debt, lowering your rate, reducing the length of your loan or looking to purchase your first or next dream home. Greg Riordan, NMLS # 832841 |

Recognizing the Overlooked Benefits of a Clean Home

By Lucy Leyva

In the rush of everyday life, keeping a clean and organized home often takes a backseat to work, family and other responsibilities. Through the years, I’ve seen firsthand how easy it is for busy households to fall behind on cleaning – not because they don’t care, but because life simply gets in the way. What I’ve also learned is that a clean home isn’t just about appearances; it has a direct impact on health, well-being and overall peace of mind.

One of the biggest concerns I’ve encountered is air quality. Dust, allergens and pet dander settle into carpets, furniture and hard-to-reach corners, creating an environment that can trigger allergies and respiratory issues. Regular cleaning, especially with the right tools and techniques, makes a noticeable difference. Many people don’t realize how much buildup accumulates until it’s removed and they suddenly breathe easier. There’s also the mental relief that comes with a clean space. I’ve seen the stress melt away from homeowners when they walk into a home that

feels fresh and put together. Clutter and mess can be overwhelming, making even simple tasks feel daunting. But when a home is clean and organized, it creates a sense of calm. It’s not just about cleanliness – it’s about giving people back the ability to relax in their own space.

Something else that stands out is how regular maintenance extends the life of a home’s furnishings and

surfaces. I’ve seen carpets that last years longer with proper care and countertops that stay looking new because they’re routinely maintained. It’s easy to overlook, but neglecting deep cleaning can lead to wear and tear that’s costly to fix later.

And then there’s the simple reality of time. Many people I’ve worked with express the same sentiment: They want to enjoy their weekends,

spend time with family or focus on personal goals rather than catching up on chores. Cleaning is necessary, but it doesn’t have to take over people’s lives. Finding a balance between maintaining a home and actually living in it is key.

At the end of the day, a clean home isn’t just about appearances – it’s about comfort, health and creating

a space where people can truly relax and recharge. That’s something I’ve come to appreciate more and more through my work and it’s a reminder that taking care of our living spaces is, in many ways, taking care of ourselves. QCBN

Yavapai College Three-Year Bachelor’s Degree Pending Approval

By Lisa B. Rhine

Yavapai College is endeavoring to change the traditional dynamics of higher education with a new optimized 92-credit Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Degree, designed to be completed within three years.

Traditionally, baccalaureate degrees have a standard minimum of 120 credits or more. Recently, the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), the largest accrediting body in the

country, approved reduced-credit bachelor’s degrees, and this provides Yavapai College with the opportunity to create optimized bachelor’s degrees that are more affordable and reduce the completion time for students.

This new opportunity will allow students to complete a degree in three years rather than four.

Working hard behind the scenes, Yavapai College has positioned itself to be the first community college in the country to offer a reduced credit

baccalaureate degree. The college has undergone its curriculum process, and the Yavapai College District Governing Board unanimously approved the degree at its October meeting. The degree must go through the HLC approval process, and if all goes well, it will launch for the fall 2025 semester.

Business program in Fall 2023. Since then, YC has also added a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree and plans for future baccalaureate degrees.

In addition to cost and time savings, the optimized 92-credit degree will:

Yavapai College has set a standard of implementing initiatives, executing strategies and breaking down barriers that our students and communities are faced with so that we can provide them with the most accessible, affordable educational opportunities possible. //

Yavapai College has set a standard of implementing initiatives, executing strategies and breaking down barriers that our students and communities are faced with so that we can provide them with the most accessible, affordable educational opportunities possible. This new opportunity to create more affordable bachelor’s degrees while reducing the time to completion will be a game-changer for students. It will allow them to get educated, get their degree, walk across the graduation stage and impact the workforce a full year sooner than before.

Yavapai College has been a pioneer amongst community colleges in Arizona when it comes to baccalaureate degree programs. YC became the first rural community college in Arizona to offer a baccalaureate degree when it launched its Bachelor of Science in

ƒ Align with industry and employers who are emphasizing skills and experience over credit hours

ƒ Appeal to working adults or learners who want to enter the workforce quicker

ƒ Be beneficial to industries with rapid change

ƒ Align with global trends, threeyear bachelor’s degrees are already the norm in Europe and other countries

YC’s existing 120-credit Bachelor of Science in Business Degree is built for breadth of knowledge for a well-rounded learning experience. The optimized, 92-credit Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Degree is built for depth and application for a more direct learning experience. The college believes that both degrees can stand alone and each will have strong interest from students.

More information will be announced as the college works with HLC through the accreditation process. The degree is pending accreditation approval from the Higher Learning Commission and the college is not accepting applications or enrolling students at this time. QCBN

For more information about Yavapai College, registering for classes for the spring semester, or discounts and scholarship resources, visit www.yc.edu/register or call 928-717-7777.

Yavapai College operates seven locations throughout Yavapai County and offers more than 100 degrees and certificates, two baccalaureate degrees, student and community services, and cultural events and activities.

To learn more about YC, visit www.yc.edu. For more information on the Yavapai College District Governing Board, visit www. yc.edu/dgb.

Lucy Leyva is the owner of Prescott Maid to Order.

Lisa B. Rhine, Ph.D., is the president of Yavapai College.

The Importance of Partnering and Joining Your Chamber of Commerce

By Sheri Heiney

In an ever-evolving business landscape, staying competitive and relevant requires strategic connections and access to resources.

Joining your local Chamber of Commerce is one of the most effective ways to achieve both. At the Prescott Chamber of Commerce, we offer a wide array of opportunities designed to support your business and foster a thriving local economy.

Networking and Connections

One of the most significant advantages of joining the Chamber is access to an extensive network of professionals and businesses. Through our events – such as mixers, ribbon cuttings and our signature Prescott Chamber Spotlight & Networking program – members can build valuable relationships that lead to collaborations, referrals and expanded visibility.

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES

Recognizing the importance of a

skilled workforce, we partner with organizations like local schools and higher education institutions to provide workforce development solutions. By connecting businesses with talented individuals, we help address labor market needs and prepare the next generation of leaders.

MARKETING AND VISIBILITY

The Chamber provides numerous opportunities to showcase your business. Our website, social media platforms and publications highlight

member businesses, while sponsorship and advertising options allow you to reach broader audiences. Being a part of the Chamber also lends credibility, enhancing your reputation within the community.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

Joining the Chamber connects you to initiatives that strengthen Prescott as a whole. From supporting beloved events like the Courthouse Lighting and Christmas Parade to participating in community improvement projects, members have the chance to give back while boosting their brand.

WHY CHOOSE THE PRESCOTT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE?

member benefits but also become a vital part of a collective effort to enhance Prescott’s economic and cultural vibrancy.

Our leadership extends beyond traditional Chamber services. Through the Prescott Chamber of Commerce Foundation, we manage initiatives such as the Western Yavapai County Economic & Workforce Development Plan and collaborate with the City of Prescott on programs like the Minor Home Repair Program. These efforts demonstrate our commitment to building a stronger, more resilient community.

Joining the Chamber connects you to initiatives that strengthen Prescott as a whole. From supporting beloved events like the Courthouse Lighting and Christmas Parade to participating in community improvement projects, members have the chance to give back while boosting their brand.

Located in the heart of Arizona’s Christmas City, the Prescott Chamber of Commerce is deeply rooted in the community. We proudly serve more than 1,100 members and operate the official Prescott Tourism Visitor’s Center, which welcomes more than 30,000 visitors annually. By joining our Chamber, you not only access exclusive

Partnering with the Prescott Chamber of Commerce is more than a membership; it’s a pathway to growth, collaboration and meaningful impact. We invite you to join us and explore the opportunities that await. Visit www.prescott.org to learn more and become a part of our vibrant community today! QCBN

VETS Connect

Monday, February 3rd at 5 pm

The Grey Room at Bucky’s Casino 1500 E. Highway 69 Prescott, AZ 86301

Dinner Bell Cantina

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Thursday, February 6th at 4 pm

321 W. Gurley St. Prescott, AZ 86301

Quarterly Women in Business Luncheon

Wednesday, February 12th at 11:30 am Hassayampa Inn 122 E. Gurley St. Prescott, AZ 86301

Earth and Herbs Arizona Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Thursday, February 13th at 4 pm

222 S. Montezuma St. Prescott, AZ 86303

Coffee Connect

Wednesday, February 19th at 7:30 am The County Seat 120 W Gurley St Prescott, AZ 86301

French Hen Boutique Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Thursday, February 20th at 4 pm

212 W. Gurley St. Prescott, AZ 86301

Chamber 101

Maximize Your Membership

Tuesday, February 25th at 8:30 am Prescott Chamber of Commerce

117 W. Goodwin Street Prescott, AZ 86303

Polara Health - Center for Recovery Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Thursday, February 27th at 4 pm 1060 Sandretto Drive Prescott, AZ 86305

Sheri Heiney is president and CEO of the Prescott Chamber of Commerce.

day,” he said.

Business ownership has made Antunez a better person, a better family member and a better boss, he says.

“If people are having a bad day, my conversation and humor helps turn it into a good day – and people do the same thing for me,” he said. “Making them feel good makes me feel good.”

“Barbering” is a culture in and of itself, he explains, as barbers often talk to each other about their work. But his Yavapai Apache culture remains in the forefront of his business. Many of his clients are Native Americans.

“There are not a lot of barbershops on reservations, so they get to come in here and see a different type of lifestyle,” he said.

Antunez was raised in Flagstaff. Growing up, he noticed a lack of barbershops in town, so he jumped on the opportunity to be a barber. “You never master it, because there is always more to learn.”

MY SUPERPOWER

I can start up a conversation with anybody. I’m a people person. My other superpower: I’m pretty fast with clippers.

HOW I RELAX

I take a couple days off a week and I’m very active. I go to the gym or I get outside. That’s how I get my mind right.

FAVORITE HOBBIES

I like being outdoors and biking with my dudes. I also like spending time with my girlfriend and dog.

WHO I ADMIRE

My Uncle Charles taught me how to be creative.

ADVICE TO ASPIRING BARBERS

Learn as much as you can and practice as much as you can. QCBN

KINDNESS continued from page 12

give me a smile. Their kindness and concern for our dying pet and our grieving family made me cry.

Since that day, I have shared that story of compassion with a lot of people. I also returned later through the drive-thru (anonymously) to purchase In and Out Burger gift certificates for holiday and birthday gifts.

ACTS OF KINDNESS HAVE POWER

Unexpected acts of kindness live on in our hearts. They heal, they soothe, they have the power to elevate a season of sadness into one of gratitude, even when they aren’t directed toward us! And in business, research shows that we want to buy goods and services from companies that practice kindness.

As we begin this new year, it will be beneficial for our hearts to remember that kindness is good for us and good for business. Science says so. QCBN

Bonnie Stevens is the editor of QCBN. She is a career journalist and public relations consultant. She can be reached at bonnie.stevens@ gmail.com.

TRIBAL continued from page 1

University in Grand Junction, Colorado.

Stephen Roe Lewis, longtime leader of the Gila River Indian Community, gave one of the keynote speeches and recognized the importance of youth. He said when he comes back for the 40th gathering of tribal leaders and state legislators in 10 years, he hopes to see one of the Native American youth in the audience as governor. He spoke about the importance of protecting Colorado River water rights for tribes, including Navajo, Hopi and Paiute. He noted that the Gila River Indian Community gained the largest water settlement rights in the U.S. in 2004. He said that when one tribe obtains water rights, it helps all tribes in their quest for tribal sovereignty. He emphasized the need for tribes and state legislators to work together in a non-partisan fashion.

Arizona State Senate President Warren Petersen and Arizona State Speaker of the House Steve Montenegro welcomed the tribes and spoke about working together. QCBN

BARBER continued from page 14

WINE continued from page 20

It’s hard to find people who want to do this kind of work.”

Glomski finds joy in being in nature and watching the vines grow.

“I love harvesting the grapes and tasting the wines and sharing them with others.”

The formula is this: “We have a talented winemaking team that I’ve trained, and we have a good finance administration department and tasting room, but to really take what we do to the next level artistically is all about growing grapes. If you don’t have great grapes, you’re not going to make great wine.”

And that means more hard work, like pruning all day.

Glomski is recognized as a valiant Arizona winegrower. Born in Boston, he studied ecology at Prescott College. After graduating, he founded a river restoration company. His introduction to winemaking began with growing apples, pears and peaches.

Pleased with his harvests, he decided to pursue winemaking and moved to California to work with the David Bruce Winery on a 45-acre estate in the Santa Cruz Mountains.

When Glomski returned to the Verde Valley, he is credited with not only proving that Arizona could be a valued appellation region, but also helps other vintners in the state produce great wine.

“I remember when Eric first purchased his property at Page Springs Cellars. It was nothing but an empty field with cows pasturing. I’m amazed by his energy and adaptability,” said Donna Glomski, Eric’s mom. “He is a perfect example of a Renaissance man, knowledgeable in so many areas. If he doesn’t know something, he’ll find an answer. When he was young, his brain was always going and looking forward to the next challenge.”

Gayle was excited to join Eric in the fields more, after their four children were raised.

“When Eric began his adventure, I volunteered and as the kids got older, I fell more in love with winegrowing,” she said. “I’m now full-time. It’s not easy watching someone build their dreams, building infrastructure and planting vines in Arizona. We’ve evolved a bit faster and bigger than

I desired, but the passion just grabs you.”

Their business offers winery tours, massages, food in their bistro and a wine tasting room at Page Springs Cellars. In addition, they often provide live music and concerts, along with special events and an art gallery. Page Springs Cellars is open every day and invites guests to join the wine club.

“I love working here,” said Page Springs Cellars Wine Club Manager Cherene Nester. “It’s a dream come true for me. I came from Colorado and what drew me to the area was the farming and the practices that they do here to make wine. Working in this type of environment offers the full spectrum from seed to cellar. Eric is so humble and understands people. He puts himself in other’s shoes all the time and I appreciate that.”

Page Springs Cellars has about 50 workers, including a core group of 12 full-time employees.

“People romanticize winemaking, but it is really an exceptionally difficult job, especially when it becomes your livelihood,” said Donna. “Eric

//

“I remember when Eric first purchased his property at Page Springs Cellars. It was nothing but an empty field with cows pasturing. I’m amazed by his energy and adaptability,” said Donna Glomski, Eric’s mom. “He is a perfect example of a Renaissance man, knowledgeable in so many areas. If he doesn’t know something, he’ll find an answer. When he was young, his brain was always going and looking forward to the next challenge.”

has an uncanny ability to be able to change into many hats at a moment’s notice. A respect for the land and the people around him is ever-present.”

For the last 10 years, Page Springs Cellars label has been sold at Whole Foods Market.

“Page Springs Cellars is 100% solar; we reclaim all of our wastewater with an advanced waste treatment system with artificial wetlands and we also reclaim all of our solid waste, everything from our winemaking process to our kitchen. The solid waste becomes compost, so with our philosophy, it was a natural fit for us to be in Whole Foods Market,” said Glomski.

Glomski has also worked at Echo Canyon Vineyards & Winery and later, Arizona Stronghold Vineyards, which his family now owns and operates. He also owns acres of vineyards in southeastern Arizona in the Chiricahua Mountains.

“We tasted the port that’s coming out and it’s fantastic. It’s finished with brandy and it’s beautiful,” said Navajo Nation Purchasing Director Kelly Dunagan-Johnson. “We love coming down here and enjoying the proximity to the river and the big trees and all the people that work here are so great. Plus, it’s a delight to meet Eric. We always bring guests here and visit Page Springs Cellars about six times a year.”

For more about Page Springs Cellars, visit www.pagespringscellars. com

LAST

MOMENT OF NOSTALGIA

Most recently, I found myself reminiscing about the earliest vineyard and winery job I ever took in Arizona. I helped Echo Canyon (the first winery to open in Northern Arizona post-prohibition) with their first vintages prior to us opening Page Springs Cellars. I remember the beautiful, golden field that led up to our little house and the old-growth hackberry tree that hung a bench swing we all used to crowd onto,

lazily swinging time away in the shade. This amount of leisure time isn’t part of my life these days, but that memory is very symbolic of the balance I seek again.

FAVORITE

SONG

I like a lot of music. “Two of Us” by the Beatles, a Lennon/McCartney [song] is my favorite. It’s a story about being young and somewhat carefree. Beautiful song.

WHO I ADMIRE

I tend to admire people who are understated and humble. Richard Landis, a friend who is 93, is from an era of artists like Ansel Adams. Richard lives in Prescott and is one of the most amazing artists I’ve ever met. He has great values, lives close to the earth – he lived off the grid by Roosevelt Lake and hunted and fished for a while – and doesn’t seek out fame or glory.

MY SECRET TO SUCCESS

Being authentic and pursuing my passions have led me to success. I have faith that if you do what you love and love what you do, things will be provided. I’m not a financially wealthy person but I feel like I’m a super-rich person. I have a great family: a beautiful and loving wife and four amazing children. I have my physical health. I live in a place that I love in Central Arizona. I still have all my wits about me and enough money. I don’t need things and don’t have excess.

FAVORITE

HOBBY

I love fly-fishing. I don’t do it enough and would love to do it more. I also love sea kayaking. My wife and I go down to the Sea of Cortez and see dolphins and sea lions and we bird watch. I love to do things that get me closer to nature. QCBN

Glomski tests and stirs the wine at various stages of the process. “I think labor and work in and of itself is a reward for me, whether it’s stacking wood, pruning vines or picking up trash. I like to be able to see what I did,” he says.

Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

“People tend to paint a rose-colored picture of winegrowing. They seem to omit the other 90% such as the long hours, backbreaking labor and all of the risk associated with farming,” said Glomski, noting that he is personally driven by the commitment to making great wines.

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A WINDOW TO THE PAST

Retired dentist Bobby D’Mura has been working Shipping Day nearly every year since 1982. “It was 1886 when Great Grandfather Babbitt started this and I feel really connected in other ways, too, because I’m the eldest great grandson of David Babbitt. I was fortunate as a child to know the last living member of the original Arizona Babbitt family. My connection goes all the way now to my son and the other fifth generation kids that are going to be running Babbitts from now on.”

Also feeling the connection is Ranch Councilmember Birdie Wallace. Out here, she is transported to the pioneering days of the Western Frontier.

“There’s a feeling of continuity. Heritage is the word that comes to mind. Tin House is 28 or 30 miles down a dirt road off the main highway and you get out into some wide-open spaces with wild horses and it’s all sky and land. It’s gorgeous,” she said. “It feels like a window to the past. But really, it’s almost like I can’t believe I’m part of it. To know this is part of my family legacy is really kind of awe-inspiring.”

NURTURING A WAY OF LIFE, SUSTAINING THE FAMILY BUSINESS

Wafting from the camp kitchen is the aroma of hot coffee, freshly baked cornbread and simmering green chili. Camp Cook Reilly Drey grew up on her grandfather’s ranch near Twin

Arrows. Today, she cooks for the crew at Tin House. Usually there are about 10 ranch hands. On this day, she cooks for 20 or more.

“They have a lot of work to do throughout the day and they have to be active all day long,” she said. “It’s not simple, easy work, so they have to be well fed. It’s super rewarding knowing that they’re full and satisfied and have the energy to get the work done.”

Financial support is essential as well. Relationship Manager Cody Stephen finds financial solutions for the nation’s agricultural families so they can sustain their business and

way of life. “Cattle ranching is part of the thread of America and Arizona,” he said. “It’s very important for our history and for our future – for the state and the nation.”

The final step is loading 100 head of cattle into each of the 14 semis that have arrived on this morning. Seasoned truck driver Mike Schmidt is part of the team hauling more than 50,000 pounds of livestock in each truck across a thousand miles – some 15 hours on the road.

“Truck driving is a very important part of the process. When we get them loaded, we pull over and make sure the

cattle are still standing and try not to have any quick stops or fast corners.”

AN EXPRESSION OF EXCELLENCE

From daybreak to early afternoon, Shipping Day is about everyone doing their best, said Babbitt Ranches General Manager Billy Cordasco. “You see all these people throughout the year, doing their job and being really good at their jobs and then pulling all that together. So today is the highpoint. It represents a whole lot more than just selling cattle across the scale.”

“The Babbitts set the bar and we’re just really grateful for what they do,”

said Turley. “It’s important: their heritage, their tradition. They produce something we can be proud of. They put their name on it and that’s a big deal. And I love when people take that kind of pride in what they’re doing and really understanding the importance of raising quality beef.”

“Shipping Day on Babbitt Ranches is a reflection of everybody individually doing their best, being part of something that matters, something bigger than themselves,” said Cordasco.

“We’re feeding America,” said Turley. QCBN

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The Courtyard Building | 115 E. Goodwin Street - Suite D, Prescott, AZ 86303 troy@quadcitiesbusinessnews.com Web quadcitiesbusinessnews.com

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Contributing Writers

Bonnie Stevens

Stan Bindell

V. Ronnie Tierney

Betsey Bruner

Contributing Photographers

Kay Lyons, Bonnie Stevens, Sue Marceau, Stacey Wittig, Veronica Tierney, Fresh Focuses

Photography

Quad Cities Business News is a publication of Quad Cities Business News, LLC and distributed free each month to residents of Prescott, Prescott Valley, Chino Valley and Dewey-Humboldt. Reproduction of any portion of the publication is strictly prohibited without expressed permission. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisements submitted to the newspaper and is not responsible for the claims of its advertisers.

Retired dentist Bobby D’Mura, a fourth generation Arizona Babbitt, has been helping at Shipping Day nearly every year for more than four decades. “I feel really connected to the past out here,” he said. Photos by Bonnie Stevens

Cowboys on horseback guide cattle across Arizona’s high desert, the same way that it’s been done since the 1800s

customers that use these vehicles as main forms of transportation or as part of a business. We do get a lot of agriculture and ranches that use utility vehicles. Those are the tools, not the toys,” Jaramillo said. “We have a lot of enthusiasts, especially two wheels. BMW and Triumph motorcycles are new to us here at this location, but not new to GO AZ. Seeing how many customers are riding those brands was eye-opening for us.”

The Central and Northern Arizona area is ideal for both on- and off-road adventures, he says. Jaramillo, who worked for GO AZ in Flagstaff for six years and has been at the Prescott Valley location for three, said, “You can just put everything on a trailer and take off and go to new areas. In Arizona, we’re fortunate in that we can take the side-by-sides on the road. Every side-by-side we sell here is street legal. So, you can leave from your backyard and go ride on all kinds of endless treks – Jerome, Williams, Crown King or Mingus. Every weekend it seems like it’s a new trail, which I think is exciting. And that is awesome for our customers as well.”

Jaramillo said GO AZ stands out as a dealership in all of its locations because it gives back to the communities it serves and delivers exceptional customer service. “GO AZ makes it a point to be part of the community, to sponsor local events and keep the money local.

Going the extra mile for every customer is what we do. It is customers first.”

Jaramillo says GO AZ helps customers choose the best vehicle for their needs, assists with licensing details and advises about safety gear.

The Prescott Valley location’s 23 employees are experienced and ready to help. “Whether you’re riding dirt bikes, enduros or ATVs, we carry everything to outfit you or we can get it ordered in. Most of my sales team either has a side-by-side or a dirt or street bike. So, there’s a lot of personal experience that we can offer. GO AZ also has demo vehicles that we take our employees out on, to give some hands-on training and experience so they’re going to be as familiar as they can with the vehicles they’re selling. That makes it a fun place to work.”

While dirt and enduro bikes have been a mainstay for GO AZ, sideby-sides are becoming increasingly popular. Jaramillo said overlanding – self-reliant travel that emphasizes enjoyment of the adventure and the journey rather than the destination – has gained an even larger following with the new Polaris Expedition, an adventure side-by-side with many outdoor applications.

“Essentially, you can pack everything you need in that one vehicle and be self-sufficient for your entire trip, whether that’s three days to a week or even longer if you’re a little

more hardcore than most,” he said. “People are going everywhere with them, tapping into a different lifestyle with these machines.”

GO AZ works to stay up with the latest trends by attending a variety of tradeshows and connecting with potential customers. GO AZ also partners with other businesses to attract new outdoor enthusiasts. One of those is Mile High Off Road in Prescott Valley. “We offer demo rides around the neighborhood,” Jaramillo said, “but Mile High does rentals,

where you can rent a vehicle for a day and try it out.

“GO AZ has everything, whether you like getting dirty and having a good time or you want to be in something that has heat and AC and you’re just as clean as you were when you got in. Traditionally, though, just anyone that’s hopping in the seat and hearing it start and being able to drive something that’s totally different from their car, especially off road, is usually what gets everyone excited, myself included,” he said.

Jaramillo said construction on the expanded facility is scheduled for completion in the next 12-18 months. “Hopefully, it’ll be a little sooner or at least right in the middle of that. Right now, we’re working to stay ahead of the construction and make sure that we’re doing everything we can for our current customers.” QCBN

For more information, visit GO AZ at https://www.goazprescott.com/ or visit the Prescott Valley store at 6500 E Hwy 69, Prescott Valley.

General Manager Leon Jaramillo says customers include outdoor recreationists, people who use off-road vehicles as a tool for their business and others who rely on GO AZ vehicles for transportation. Photos by Heidi Dahms Foster