May 2023

INSIDE THE MAY 2023 ISSUE:

Chino Businesses

Celebrated p. 3

Treasure Hunters

Explore Ruby Road p. 4

Birdwatchers

Flocking to The Lookout p. 6

Construction Underway on Babbitt Ranch Energy Center North of Flagstaff

NextEra, SRP, Babbitt Ranches, Arizona State Land Department collaborating on wind power project for renewable energy future

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

With a passion to move the state forward with renewable energy while protecting open space, creating jobs, boosting the Northern Arizona

economy and planning for generations of Arizonans to come, NextEra Energy Resources, LLC, SRP, Babbitt Ranches and the Arizona State Land Department have announced that construction is underway for the Babbitt Ranch Energy Center. The

161-megawatt (MW) wind project, featuring 50 wind turbines across 669 acres on the CO Bar Ranch about 25 miles north of Flagstaff, is scheduled to begin delivering clean energy to SRP customers by early 2024.

“In our efforts to support the delivery of renewable energy, we acknowledge the terrific and wonderful participation of so many businesses and government entities involved in the process to make this happen,”

said Babbitt Ranches President and General Manager Billy Cordasco. “We appreciate the valuable input from the Arizona Game and Fish Department, the Arizona Department of Transportation, the Arizona State Land Department, Coconino County and everyone involved in the Western CO Bar Legacy Conservation Community for the benefit of future generations.”

A subsidiary of NextEra Energy Resources will build, own and operate

Continued on page 38

Hilton Garden Standing Out Among Hotel Chain Properties

By Ray Newton and Stan Bindell, QCBN

It’s only been open for a few years, but Hilton Garden Inn in downtown Prescott is already earning national attention. The property is one of seven hotels out of 800, and the only one in Arizona, to win the international 2022 Conrad Achievement Award from the renowned hotel chain.

“It is quite an honor to achieve this award,” said General Manager Marci Hurlbert, who oversees five hotels, with two in Flagstaff, two in Show Low and the Hilton Garden Inn.

She says the recognition came because of the team, including Assistant General Manager Jenniffer Mangus, Maintenance Supervisor Josh Hargan, Housekeeping Manager Margaret Strutz, Culinary Manager Rachel Agan, Banquet Manager Hillary Hofstetter and Front Desk Manager Alex Torget.

The award measures guest satisfaction and the overall guest experience. It is based on guest

evaluations and inspections by a Hilton inspector once or twice a year. Hurlbert said these are random so that the hotels cannot prepare or in any way impact the scores. The ratings include many areas such as cleanliness, upkeep of the facility and friendliness of the staff.

“We’re still replacing things on an ongoing basis,” Hurlbert said about Hilton Garden Inn, which opened in 2020.

Hilton Garden Inn receives weekly score updates, which identify where they can improve. “We want to see how we can make it better for our guests,” Hurlbert said. “They might want better lighting or different types of pillows.”

Hilton hotels became pet-friendly this year. That means not only allowing pets in the hotel, but letting pet owners know where the nearest vet is located, where they can get supplies and where there’s a pet-friendly park. “We want to make their stay amazing,” she said, adding that one customer described the customer service as “perfection” and that is what they strive to do for

Continued on page 39

4th Annual Prescott ATHENA Leadership Awards

Hilton Garden Inn General Manager Marci Hurlbert says she and her team are focused on the guest experience. Photo by Kay Lyons.

Celestial Gala Honors Jim and Linda Lee p. 8 Summer Music Camp for Adults p. 12

Tim Carter Shares Life of Service p. 18

THE MORE YOU PLAY, THE MORE WE PAY! SMOKE FREE GAMING + THE NEWEST SLOTS + DAILY HAPPY HOUR

Chino Valley Applauds Outstanding Individuals, Businesses, Organizations

By Stan Bindell, QCBN

About 70 business owners and community members attended the Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce Business Recognition Awards ceremony Friday, March 31, at the Prescott Centennial Center.

The Business Recognition Award, also known as the BRA award, went to Tom Payne and Wendy McManigal of Tom’s Print and Sign. The Hall of Fame Award went to Julia Ammons of Essence Kitchen and Bar. The Community Service Award went to Sandy Jones of Chino Valley United Methodist Church, and the Business Excellence Award went to Tre Soria of Prescott Roots Landscaping and Design.

The event also honored outgoing Chino Valley Chamber CEO Lorette Stewart, who resigned to take another job.

Until a permanent replacement is hired,

Sheri Heiney, president and CEO of the Prescott Chamber of Commerce, has stepped in to offer not only her 20-plus years of personal expertise in chamber operations, but her team to assist CV Chamber of Commerce in managing membership files, financial analysis, short-term and long-term financial planning, bylaws adherence and board development.

In addition, John Courtis, the retired executive director of the Yuma County Chamber of Commerce, has offered to serve as interim volunteer director. Courtis will be the face of the Chino Valley Area Chamber of Commerce while they seek out Stewart’s replacement.

Heart Dance Records artist Darin Mahoney, a Chino Valley resident, performed live music with his guitar and vocals during the buffet dinner awards ceremony.

Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce Board Chairman Max Bledsoe recognized community

Continued on page 39

Sandy Jones shares the recognition for Chino Valley United Methodist Church with Kaleigh Stewart, the daughter of outgoing chamber CEO Lorette Stewart. Photo by Stan Bindell

Tom Payne and his sister, Wendy McManigal, accepted their award for Tom’s Print and Sign.

Photo by Stan Bindell

Ruby Road Vintage Mall Offers Upcycled Treasures

Pamela Bridgnell creates space for micro businesses

By V. Ronnie Tierney, QCBN

Mondays can be quiet in small towns, but for Ruby Road Vintage Mall in Camp Verde, the start of the work week is bustling with business.

Packed with 60 vendor spaces, the store sells a mix of estate treasures, trendy home goods, repurposed furniture, new items and more. The staff at Ruby Road Vintage Mall totals about a dozen people who work part-time.

“Most everyone that works here also sells here and it’s a great advantage for them,” said Ruby Road Vintage Mall Owner Pamela Bridgnell. “They’re running their own little store or micro business without having to deal with the complexities of owning a business. I love the way the products they are selling often reflect their personality.”

Holiday items, greeting cards, jewelry, herbal products and hand-crafted candles also adorn the shelves at Ruby Road Vintage Mall. “One of our newest vendors is selling a cute brand of baby and toddler clothes. I heard a

customer squealing with joy because she was so happy to find such an adorable assortment of baby apparel,” she said.

The largest space in the store is the furniture room, with hundreds of used pieces to choose from. “I think it might be the largest collection of furniture in one place in the area,” said Bridgnell.

“Pamela is honestly the superstar of the resale business. She’s always up to something innovative, new and exciting.  I love being a vendor here,” said Sandee Hedgcock.

The 8,000-square-foot store echoes the country character of Camp Verde and lures shoppers from all over Northern Arizona. The front parking lot is also a display area for outdoor furniture and vintage artifacts, serving as a colorful exhibition for passersby.

Insisting that she’s a stickler about quality, all products sold must meet Bridgnell’s standards. “We have Ruby Road values that must be met for every piece. Items sold must operate, drawers work, no holes. I hold our dealers to this commitment and there are times we do reject some items. I’m a tyrant because I want the best to be sold here.”

Pamela and her husband, Paul, came to Camp Verde from Phoenix in

2005, when they purchased a vacation home. “Once we got here, I fell in love with the area. I also had a desire to open a little thrift shop,” she said.

At first, she worked just a few days a week, but then she opened a larger store around the corner, which is where Ruby Road Vintage Mall was born, named after her granddaughter.

Bridgnell says it feels like the store became successful overnight. “I didn’t advertise, I just told people about it, word got out and vendors started renting spaces. Customers liked the concept, and we always seem to have a steady flow of business.”

“It’s really fun to look around, plus it’s clean, and it doesn’t have that musky odor that some resale shops have,” said local artist Sheri Morris. “They also stock a wide variety of items like appliances, household goods and lots of new inventory. We always find pieces of furniture that fit a certain niche in our home. Recently, we purchased a huge chest for our patio for $100. It holds everything that we use outside.”

Bridgnell travels weekly from her home in Phoenix to transport used furniture. “I bring up a 20-foot cargo trailer full of used furniture almost every week. It’s crazy how it sells and how hard it is to keep up with the demand.”

“The way the store has continuously evolved over time is all due to Pamela’s dedication and success,” said Ruby Road Vintage Mall Store Manager Nicole Sornprasitti. “She’s created a great environment and she’s a wonderful boss and a caring mentor who is always open to new ideas and strategies.”

Married for 41 years, the Bridgnells

have two married children and five grandchildren. “We have a jeep and love four-wheeling, rock crawling in Sedona, and we also like to hike and travel.” QCBN

Ruby Road Vintage Mall is located at 851 E. Howards Road in Camp Verde. For more information, call 928-567-5759 or visit www.rubyroadresale.com.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

It’s important to recognize that our mental health is closely linked to our physical health, and taking care of both is essential for overall wellbeing.

Ruby Road Vintage Mall owner Pamela Bridgnell says she loves the happiness her store brings customers. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

Bird Watching and Feeding from The Lookout

Jay’s Bird Barn receives new name and more space

By Stan Bindell, QCBN

The Lookout, formerly known as Jay’s Bird Barn, has opened a bigger store, offering more bird products, optics and Hallmark products.

“My name isn’t Jay. We don’t sell birds and we’re not in a barn,” said Eric Moore, joking about the reasons for the name change.

Moore owns The Lookout with his wife, Gay. He said the store has 11 workers, including his wife and himself. “We are family and knowledge-based, and emphasize customer service,” he said. His son, Jay, was working with the business when it opened 20 years ago, but is no longer involved.

“We get a ton of calls asking if we sell parrots,” Moore said. The Lookout does sell birdseed, birdhouses, bird books and bird baths, but not birds.

“Birdseed has been our bread and butter for 20 years,” Moore said about the store’s popularity. They have thousands of customers in their database, with many coming from all over the state.

Moore says the quality of their seed is what puts them on the map, as they make their own in Prescott through a partnership with Yavapai Exceptional Industries (YEI). It is habitat-specific, because one neighborhood in Prescott will attract different types of birds than another section of the city.

“We ask people where they live. The blends are the key to our success and the customers can see the difference,” he said.

The optics section is three times larger than the old store. The Lookout carries Vortex and Swarovski binoculars, spotting scopes and tripods. The Lookout is aptly named, as it has big windows with birdfeeders outside and a great view of Thumb Butte. Customers can try the

binoculars and scopes out the window. “We have the nicest optics in Northern Arizona,” Moore said.

The Hallmark section has also been enlarged, offering cards and gifts for special occasions including anniversaries, weddings, newborns, new homes and retirement. The Lookout also has nature-based and faith-based gifts. “We are a one-stop destination for gifts,” he said.

Hallmark has a licensing agreement with Disney and Peanuts, so the Lookout also carries those gift items. The store also carries nature cards created by local artists. The book section covers a wide variety of topics, including hiking and geology. It also sells small, foldable Sibleys bird guidebooks that are easy to carry and list 73 backyard birds and 72 nature birds in the Prescott area.

After 20 years of renting, Moore said they decided to buy this new building. The new store is 7,300 square feet, compared to the old 3,000-square-foot store.

“We hire employees who know the subject matter,” he said. “We have thousands of dedicated customers because they know about our specialized knowledge. I also know all the customers by name because they’re also our friends.”

Moore’s interest in birds began when he was 5 years old. He earned a business degree and worked in the grocery business for 20 years before opening his family business. “It was our own invention and creation,” he said. “We didn’t buy a franchise. We built it from the ground up.” QCBN

The Lookout is on 1230 Willow Creek Road but cannot be accessed from Willow Creek Road. Customers must turn onto Black Drive to get to the driveway.

Owner Eric Moore says The Lookout’s is known for its knowledge about birds and careful blend of bird seed for specific locations. Photo by Stan Bindell

Woman Business

of the Month

Renee Rosales is a Champion for Neurodiverse Learners

Theara founder offers brain-training exercises, coaching

By V. Ronnie Tierney, QCBN

Maintaining the vision that

“anything is possible with the right amount of education and determination,” Theara Founder and CEO Renee Rosales has set out to build a better way for the neurodiverse (ND).

“Neurodiversity is the belief that neurological disabilities and differences are not the result of faulty biology but rather the result of natural neurological variation,” Rosales said. “Conditions such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), dyslexia, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), autism, Tourette’s, giftedness and dyscalculia fall under the ND umbrella.”

As co-founder of two of the first virtual schools in Arizona, Marana Distance Learning K12 and Northern Arizona Distance Learning, and with a 25-year career in public education, Rosales has developed Theara, providing online training and coaching programs using simple brain-training exercises.

According to Rosales, about 15% to 22% of the global population could be considered neurodiverse.

Her passion for the Neurodiversity

Movement is very personal, as she has ADHD. “I am determined to eradicate the negative stigma and wear my ADHD identity like a badge of honor.”

In addition, two of Rosales’ children are neuro-distinct, with ADHD and dyslexia. “My second son was diagnosed with a very complex ND profile. He had very few intelligible words until he was almost 4 years old. Our journey was very challenging and I decided to use my experience to light the way for others navigating the same journey.”

When contemplating the name for her business, Rosales said the word “Ara” kept coming to mind. “Turned out the name Ara meant ‘a table of offerings.’ I left a well-established career to bring all my best to the table to offer to others.”

Her support options for the neurodiverse include Cognitive Coaching, ND Advocacy, DEI Consulting and the Theara Academy. “Theara Academy provides online education options that provide individuals the roadmap I didn’t have: Know the Way at Home, which helps families just beginning their ND journey, Know the Way at School, for educators and parents, Know the Way at Work, for employers and employees and EMERGE ND for Neurodivergents seeking to better manage, embrace

and share their ND identity,” she said.

Acronyms, including JOY, BRIDGE, RESET, CONNECT and REACH, are used as brain training tools to help ND people build connections and improve personal development.

Avondale Registered Nurse, wife and mother Lisa Diggs, who is ADHD, bi-polar and OCD, has been coached by Rosales for more than two years on a bi-weekly routine. “Renee has been an amazing resource and her tools have helped me maintain and stabilize my mind on everything I have going on,” she said.  “I learn very well with the Theara acronyms and especially like JOY. My husband noticed how this has helped me and he is now listening to our Zoom meetings as well.” Along with ND, Diggs is also battling cancer and going through chemotherapy.

Born in Akron, Ohio, Rosales met her husband, Flagstaff Foot Doctors owner, Dr. Anthony Rosales, D.P.M., in Cleveland, Ohio. “Anthony was placed for his residency in Tucson, so we moved out West. I started my master’s at University of Arizona (UA)

and completed it in Flagstaff in 2005. I also worked at Flagstaff High School and established the Mesa Distance Learning program there, as well as teaching English.”

Leaving her career in education and developing Theara was a personal process for Rosales. When contemplating the name for her business, Rosales said the word “Ara” kept coming to mind. She discovered “Ara” meant a table of offerings.

“I left a well-established career to bring all my best to the table to offer to others. I chose to leave the comfort of a secure career with the goal of helping people through the challenges of ND. Theara is the culmination of all I have learned along the way.”

Theara Chief Operating Officer Wanda Tompkins left a 30-plus year career in retail to join Rosales on the Theara team. “I’ve never worked with my best friend before and it’s been great. Learning the acronyms is not just for ND individuals. It really helps anyone with better communication, better awareness and helps to refocus on where we need to be. It’s a huge positive in my life. I like to think of it

as learning a new language.”

“Wanda and I have done collaborative work together and she has incredible skills in management and business operation. I wanted a team member who could bring those pieces into the operation,” said Rosales.

Theara’s Masterclass is a monthly live online coaching session where members can speak directly with Renee and other ND parents. “Our Masterclass is a group of families across the world who connect and can help each other navigate their journey. They build lasting relationships and find practical advice on strategies, situational management techniques, learning how to effectively communicate and other valuable support,” said Rosales.

Ronin Media Network Chief Revenue Officer Jason Rhude has been involved with the Masterclass for more than a year. “I’ve been taking her classes to better understand how to interact with people with ND in order to make a more cohesive work environment and understand how to identify and utilize these skills so people can thrive,” said Rhude. QCBN

With ADHD herself and two neurodiverse children, Renee Rosales is passionate about eradicating the stigma associated with neurodiverse conditions. Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

Theara Chief Operating Officer Wanda Tompkins and Theara Founder and CEO Renee Rosales collaborated to create Theara.

New grads for a new economy

Accelerating innovation

By 2032, Arizona State University will be graduating 10,000 engineering students per year. Those graduates will be needed to fill the high-tech, high-wage jobs being created in Arizona through the New Economy Initiative. Building on ASU’s role as a catalyst for economic growth and resilience, the New Economy Initiative prioritizes accessible, high-quality education to create Arizona’s future workforce and innovative research that helps to attract, grow and retain high-tech companies.

Aliaksandr “Sasha” Sharstniou (right) and Bruno Azeredo, an assistant professor of manufacturing engineering. Sharstniou is preparing to begin a new position at Intel in Arizona after earning his doctorate in materials science and engineering from the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering.

The Best In Alzheimer’s and

Celestial Gala Honored Jim and Linda Lee, Celebrated Planetarium

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott celebrated the five-year anniversary of the Jim and Linda Lee Planetarium while honoring ERAU patrons, the Lees, at a Spring Celestial Gala that raised more than $70,000 to support the facility and STEM programming.

The Lees have been strong contributors to the success of the Quad Cities area for decades in a number of ways through charitable donations and business endeavors. They have donated to many community organizations and have impacted the area’s economic growth through upscale residential and commercial developments. The Jim and Linda Lee Planetarium, the only Arizona planetarium north of Phoenix, is one of their most visible contributions.

“The Planetarium has created a wonderful venue to bring not only our own students, but also high school, middle school and elementary students here to see what a STEM education can provide,” said ERAU Executive Director of Philanthropy Steve Bobinsky. “It also encourages Quad Cities residents to venture onto our campus, engage with faculty and students and see that we’re not just a flight school. We also

offer incredible STEM-related majors such as aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, cybersecurity, gaming and simulation.”

A live auction at the gala offered bidders unique opportunities such as a private event in the planetarium for 100 guests; a 60-minute flight in an ERAU Cessna 172S NAV III aircraft; a European culinary tour for eight people at the home of ERAU Chancellor Dr. Anette Karlsson and her husband, Dr. Rick Lehman, compliments of chef and restaurateur Barry Barbe; and a four-day live-flight experience for a parent and student.

Bobinsky said $33,000 was raised through the live auction and an additional $40,000 gift was received to support the expansion of the planetarium’s show catalog and technological capabilities provided for the public as well as STEM outreach educational opportunities.

More than 100 people attended the gala and were treated to an evening of images and discovery from the James Webb Space Telescope, set to a London Symphony Orchestra recording of Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2, created by Planetarium Director Eric Edelman.

“It was a really nice event, a great evening,” said Bobinsky. QCBN

ERAU President Dr. P. Barry Butler and ERAU Prescott Chancellor Dr. Anette Karlsson honored Jim and Linda Lee (center) and thanked them for their involvement with the planetarium. Courtesy photo

More than 100 guests attended the gala that delivered spectacular images from space through the James Webb telescope and offered unique experiences through a live auction to support the planetarium. Courtesy photo

Roots and Boots Music Camp Inspired by Pickin’ in the Pines

June event promotes jamming and harmonizing under the stars

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

Bluegrass is on fire, says Flagstaff Roots and Boots Music Camp founder Julie Sullivan, and it’s lighting up the nation. “Everyone wants to know how to play it. It’s very accessible and people can identify with the music and the instruments. We’ll hear, ‘I have a banjo that was my dad’s.’ Or, they play guitar and plunk around at home. What I’ve found is

want to camp and play their instruments here. Jamming after bluegrass festivals into the wee hours is unique to this genre, having fun, singing to the stars.”

And that’s her inspiration for the Flagstaff Roots and Boots Music Camp, a four-day event for adults devoted to the study and enjoyment of bluegrass, acoustic folk and blues, scheduled for June 7-11 at Camp Colton on the San Francisco Peaks. Besides immersion classes with seasoned musician instructors from around the region, participants learn “the etiquette of jamming,” she said. “People learn how to play with an ensemble. We emphasize singing

2023 rodeo schedule

Performance #1

Performance #2

Performance #3

Performance #4

June 28 – 7:30p

June 29 – 7:30p

June 30 – 7:30p

July 1 – 1:30p

Performance #5

Performance #6

Performance #7

Performance #8

July 1 – 7:30p

July 2 – 7:30p

July 3 – 7:30p

July 4 – 1:30p

SPONSORED BY THE DAILY COURIER

SPONSORED BY WRANGLER | TOUGH ENOUGH TO WEAR PINK

SPONSORED BY JACK DANIELS

SPONSORED BY COORS

SPONSORED BY RAM YORK DODGE CHRYSLER JEEP

SPONSORED BY NACKARD PEPSI

SPONSORED BY BARRETT PROPANE

Julie Sullivan, captured here playing the guitar, founded the Flagstaff Roots and Boots Music Camp. She is also an art director and graphic designer in Flagstaff, with her business Shine Creative Industries. Photo courtesy of Dawn Kish

Thinking about a career change?

A Lifeline to Recovery

Onlife Foundation raises funds to treat addiction, support sober living

By Betsey Bruner, QCBN

Sometimes, life’s struggles can seem insurmountable. This is especially true when an individual is drowning in problems created by the ravages of addiction or mental illness.

Help might seem just out of reach as families struggle to afford effective treatment for loved ones who are suffering. However, a private non-profit, Onlife Foundation, was founded in Flagstaff about a year ago to help soften this dilemma by raising funds and creating a network of partnerships that can provide innovative and varied resources for those in need.

“The goal really is trying to meet an audience that’s stuck,” said Onlife President and co-founder Roy DuPrez. “There are so many treatment programs out there, including a lot of expensive programs with minimal results. Families don’t even know what they getting into. We often have scenarios where the potential family may have good private insurance but not enough to cover their out-of-pocket or insurance policy deductions. We’re trying

to help them bridge that, so they can participate in better quality programs.”

The motto of Onlife Foundation is “Placing the Impossible Within Reach.” Critical to the non-profit’s success are its partnerships with effective programs that have proven to be successful in helping individuals recover from addiction and other mental health conditions and go on to maintain sober and enriching lives.

DuPrez also started two programs in the Flagstaff area that are affiliated with and benefit from the efforts of Onlife Foundation – Back2Basics Outdoor Adventure Recovery and Beyond the Basics. The Back2Basics program is for young adult males, ages 18 to 35, who have substance abuse issues and are looking for a positive and meaningful life. Its success lies in a combination of concentrated direct care therapy and life-skill building. The program maintains four residential facilities for clients in Flagstaff and is a hybrid residential and outdoor adventure recovery program.

“Young adults truly benefit from various activities that are satisfying and engaging,” DuPrez said. “There needs to be some sort of carrot, not just another relapse prevention lecture. That isn’t going to do it for most young people at that age. My vision is we need

to broaden their experiences and offer them an opportunity to see what life can look like while being sober.” Adventures include trips to places like Moab, Utah, Grand Canyon, the Superstition Mountains and Sedona.

Activities may feature camping, backpacking, kayaking and river rafting, with cross-country and downhill skiing in the winter.

Beyond the Basics is an additional six-month transition program that

follows the Back2Basics program. It is focused on giving clients the groundwork to gradually transition from rehabilitation and recovery into living in the “real world” with long-term Continued on page 37

Onlife is designed to help support young men seeking recovery through Back2Basics Outdoor Adventure Recovery and Beyond the Basics, which include outdoor activities like river rafting in their programs. Courtesy photo

Providing you safe, reliable energy is our top priority. That’s why we work year-round to prepare for wildfires. During elevated fire conditions, power outages may be extended until crews can perform visual inspections of lines and remove any potential hazards that could pose a fire risk. In the event of a wildfire, power lines may be temporarily taken out of service to protect your community and firefighters. Working together, we can be prepared. Here are some things you can do to be ready for wildfire season.

• Keep grass, weeds, trees and shrubs trimmed. Dispose of trimmings and trash properly.

• Get emergency alerts through local resources and visit ein.az.gov to create an emergency preparedness plan.

• Create an online account at aps.com and receive text or email outage alerts. Already have an account? Log in and make sure your contact information is correct to ensure you receive alerts related to outages in your area.

• Have flashlights, batteries, a portable cell phone charger and water handy. Please visit aps.com/wildfiresafety for more information.

Every day, prepared. Wildfire preparation protects you, the community and first responders.

Painting a Picture of Health

If you were to paint a picture of your health right now, would you put a fuzzy cloud of purple over your head or maybe a circle of red dots around your face? Would you see lines of magenta in your throat, splashes of yellow in your heart or blue squiggles in your abdomen? Katie Beecher might.

Katie is a licensed professional counselor and medical and emotional intuitive with more than 30 years’ experience as a healer. Strongly influenced by the work of psychologist and founder of analytical psychiatry Carl Jung, who believed the body expresses symptoms from our emotions, Katie promotes holistic health, the wellness of the mind, body and spirit.

Her new book, “Heal from Within: A Guidebook to Intuitive Wellness,” is packed with ancient wisdom and acute awareness about connectedness and how the body works. More profoundly, she explains what our bodies may be saying to us when something is not quite right.

A big believer in finding the root cause of what is making us sick, Katie not only addresses physical symptoms, but explores “everything in our past and present that may be contributing to being unwell, whether that be physical-

ly, emotionally and/or spiritually.”

“A lot of times when you are having an issue, the tendency is to just look at one aspect of it,” she says. “It may be physical symptoms and looking at just the physical cause or emotionally, like whether it’s a relationship thing, or whether it’s neurological. What I’ve learned from my own experience as well as working with clients is that there are so many different factors that impact our lives, our happiness and

our wellness and they can go back to childhood trauma. But it’s also things like relationships now, nutrition, whether you’re happy in your career or not, spiritual things like how you are being treated and how you are expressing yourself. All these things impact how we feel about ourselves and that translates into how we treat our bodies and how those symptoms are expressed by our body.”

Also, Katie is a watercolor artist.

She uses paintings to investigate and communicate what is causing distress and illness in her clients. “In one painting, the guides told me to show blue squiggles in the gut. Blue is about being empathic and sensitive. When I get blue, it’s often from people who are very influenced by others. They almost care too much about what other people think. From a very young child, this individual had a lot of gut symptoms and stomach aches. He discovered he

was not being his authentic self and that was causing him pain.”

Katie works with chakras, or energy centers in the body that correspond to specific nerve bundles and internal organs. There are seven major ones. If a painting shows magenta lines in the throat, for example, that draws attention to the fifth chakra, which has to do with expression and may indicate a need to express oneself or speak up, she says. “Orange is often about being courageous. The more you trust your intuition and trust your true self, the more courage you will have to be able to do that.”

Color on top or above the head has to do with the seventh or the Crown Chakra, which she says is about connecting to the “supreme self” and the universal flow of energy. “Yellow in this area may indicate loving support surrounding this individual.”

Katie has recovered from an eating disorder, Lyme disease and depression and wrote “Heal from Within” partly to inspire others that they can also heal from very difficult conditions. In the book, she emphasizes bolstering and protecting our healing energy and “embracing an all-powerful loving

Continued on page 37

Left: Katie Beecher created this painting of a client. She says the squiggly blue lines in the stomach area indicate a tendency to care too much about what other people think and thus, not being true to the authentic self. Center: Katie Beecher. Right: Her book, “Heal from Within: A Guidebook to Intuitive Wellness,” is available on Amazon. Courtesy photos

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Family, Education, Service, and Abe Lincoln Drive Tim Carter

County Superintendent of Schools announces his retirement

By Ray Newton, Stan Bindell, Bonnie Stevens QCBN

Yavapai

County Superintendent of Schools

Tim Carter has announced his plans to retire at the end of his term on Dec 31, 2024, after he will have served half a century in education, playing many roles as a public servant.

Carter has been a teacher, principal and accomplished track and cross-country coach, appointed to the position of county superintendent of schools and then elected five times. He reflected on his 50+ years in education in an exclusive interview with Quad Cities Business News.

Beginning as a classroom teacher and coach in 1973, Carter says he experienced an extraordinary time of change in American education. The positives include: the emergence of a variety of educational options, such as school choice and open enrollment; and a wave of technology from cell phones, computers and instant information. The negatives include: an increase in violence and drug-related issues; the internet, plus the spread of non-factual information; extraordinary health impacts, including COVID-19; an increased difficulty in recruiting and retaining teachers; and the creation of the U.S. Department of Education and a subsequent loss of local control.

Born in Glendale, California, Carter’s family moved to Southern Arizona when he was five weeks old. It was there, about 19 miles out of Tombstone, where he grew up on a thoroughbred ranch, the STC Stables. “I can remember Prescott from about 1958. My folks were in and out of Prescott all the time picking up and dropping off horses as part of the business.”

Early on, Carter believed his calling was to be a jockey. “I was going to be the next Bill Shoemaker, but by about [age] 12, I was too big for that idea.”

When he outgrew that dream, he decided he’d be a veterinarian, at least until he saw the list of math classes he’d have to take. “Then I thought, ‘Maybe not.’”

About that time, he was impressed by two men who became his mentors: Jack Charters, his high school track coach and Herman Fisher, his high school football and basketball coach. “I put those men right up there with Abraham Lincoln.”

Carter, a person of faith, received his bachelor’s degree in physical education from Grand Canyon College. He earned his master’s degree in political science and secondary educational leadership from Northern Arizona University and his superintendent certificate from the University of Phoenix. In the 1970s, he taught at Alchesay High School on the Fort Apache Indian Reservation in Whiteriver and Antelope High School in Wellton. In 1979, Carter started teaching American Government and Introduction to Law at Prescott High School, and in 1991, he joined the Prescott High School administration. Altogether, he taught for 18 years and served as principal at Prescott High School for 12 years.

In 2003, with his first retirement, he began teaching law and political science at Yavapai College, the University of Phoenix and Northern Arizona University. In 2005, he was appointed by the Yavapai County Board of Supervisors to serve as superintendent of schools. In 2006, Carter was elected to the first of five terms. When he retires this time, he will have spent 20 years

Tim Carter continues to visit classrooms and read to children. When he retires, he will have more than 50 years in education. Photo by Kay Lyons

Bombas Gives Socks to Young Ones through Tennies for Tots

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

Paula Sedillo Wise and the volunteers for the non-profit she started, Tennies for Tots, were more than thrilled when they learned they would be partnering with Bombas, a sock and T-shirt company, and their One Purchased=One Donated program. They are sending her 3,000 pairs of children’s socks to add to the new shoes, books and book bags she provides to children 5 years old and younger who are part of families who live in poverty throughout Northern and Central Arizona. As she put it with a smile, “It knocked my socks off!”

Bombas donates one item of clothing for every item they sell. Currently, the company has more than 3,500 partners distributing those gifts throughout the United States. To date, Bombas has donated 75 million pieces of clothing to programs that serve those in need. Of the clothing they donate, socks, underwear and T-shirts are the top three most requested items at shelters. “We are honored to be a part of this amazing and one-of-akind program,” said Wise.

Paula started Tennies for Tots in 2018, after attending a back-to-school event in Prescott, where she learned

that there where programs in place to help school-aged children with school clothes and supplies but they were not available for younger children. Although she works full time, she decided she was going to fill that need. She started with a couple of the Head Start Programs in Flagstaff. Slowly, she expanded, and now serves nearly 40 Head Start programs in four different counties in Arizona and more than 3,000 children every year, including those in Williams, Flagstaff, Page, the Navajo Nation, Winslow and the White Mountains. For many of these children, they are the first new shoes they have ever had.

Last year was a difficult year for Tennies for Tots, Wise reports. She and the volunteers had always shopped discount bins and store closings to buy shoes and socks that they gave away. This held the cost to under $10 per child. But with inflation and supply chain problems, her sources dried up. As a result, the cost per child rose by almost 50%. “But thanks to some new ideas and help from Bill and Barbara Packard and their ‘Going Full Circle’ books, we found a way to get everyone outfitted,” she said.

“Making a difference is all about a commitment to a cause,” said Bill. “She saw a need and did what it took,

almost single-handedly, to fill it. That kind of volunteerism is rare, but the reward fills you beyond measure.”

Sara Presler, former mayor of Flagstaff, introduced Wise to the Packards about four years ago. They helped her create the non-profit and fill out grant applications. Hence, donations doubled from 2021 to 2022.

“We were amazed how this single mother who worked full-time had found the time and resources to help all these children,” said Bill. “We recognized the same drive in her that lead us to open Full Circle Trade and Thrift and our Pantry.”

As word has gotten out, Wise says requests for help from families have increased as well. “We are always looking for more help, so if you or a group you belong to would like to help financially or to volunteer, buying, sorting and distributing, we sure could use the help.”

For more information, visit www. tenniesfortots.org. The State of Arizona recognized Tennies for Tots as a Qualifying Tax Credit Organization in 2022. That means a single person may donate $400 or couples may donate $800 to deduct the full amount from their state income tax bill. QCBN

Paula Sedillo Wise is joyfully overwhelmed by the gift of 3,000 socks to support her non-profit, Tennies for Tots. Courtesy photo

Party in the Pines to Benefit Local Education

The Prescott Area Young Professionals (PAYP) group is planning its annual charity beer festival, Party in the Pines, scheduled for 5 p.m., Saturday, June 3. The event will support the Prescott Unified School District (PUSD) classrooms through PUSD Education Foundation grants that fund programs such as an engineering class at Prescott High School and the districtwide college and career preparation software program, Naviance.

“We’re excited to bring our community together to support education through Party in the Pines,” said PAYP President Stephanie Miller. “We believe that education is the foundation for a strong and prosperous community and we’re proud to be able to support our local schools through this event. Come out and enjoy great beer, food and music while making a difference in the lives of students in our area.”

The festival will have a VIP entry at 4 p.m., with access to a private musical performance, exclusive drink tastings, catering, private shade and luxury restrooms, sponsored by Lamb Chevrolet. Limited VIP tickets are available online at partyinthepinesprescott.com.

General admission opens at 5 p.m., with discounted pre-sale tickets available online at partyinthepinesprescott.com for $50, which includes eight drink tickets. Tickets also will be available at the gate for $55. Additional tasting tickets will be available for purchase. Designated drivers receive a discount of $10 at the gate.

Event sponsors include Quad Cities Business News, Lamb Chevrolet, Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos, Waste Management, ROX Media, The Prescott Times, Visit Prescott,

Sparklight Advertising, Signals, Park Plaza Liquor and Deli, Sunstate Equipment Co., LLC, Verve Events & Tents, Skycity Productions LLC, Quad Cities Design, Makayla Chadwick State Farm Insurance, Sadie Sarti Design Co, Jameson Electric, Lawhorn Plumbing LLC, Prescott Culture Construction and Red Bull. Party in the Pines is a 21-years-old-and-older and a cash-only event. For more information, please contact Stephanie Miller at 928-445-2000, ext. 114. QCBN

CARTER continued from page 18

with the county, 50+ years total in education.

Over the years, Carter has been inducted into the Arizona Track Coaches Hall of Fame, honored as Arizona Administrator of the Year, served on the executive board of the Arizona Interscholastic Association and twice selected as Outstanding JTED/CTE (Joint Technical Education District/Career and Technical Education) Capitol Times Policy Maker of the Year. He also has been inducted into the Grand Canyon University Hall of Fame and the NAU Hall of Fame. He served as the vice president and president of the Arizona State Board of Education and the Arizona Association of Counties.

Reminders of his greatest achievements are all around him in the faces of former students and staff members, he says. “Many of them work in our agency or in our schools, courts, police and fire departments, medical facilities and construction sites. They are engineers, architects, hydrologists, elected officials, executive directors, ranchers, office workers, doctors, contractors, stockbrokers, serving in the military, realtors, parents, grandparents and friends.”

He says retirement will afford him more time to go hunting, fishing, camping and traveling. “I will be more active with Prescott Sunrise Lions, continue to teach school law and

school finance for universities and colleges, continue to be involved with our family and grandson as he gets ready to go off to college and I plan to write a book about Abraham Lincoln.” Carter has long respected and admired the nation’s 16th president.

“I appreciate that Abe Lincoln came from very humble beginnings and pulled himself up by his bootstraps, taught himself to read and write, became a lawyer at a time when you had to do a lot of that work yourself without going to college, had some difficulty getting into political offices and losing about as many [races] as he won. He was just a person of absolute integrity, served at a time when America was in peril and did some amazing things.”

PASSION PROJECT

I’ve been thinking about the book I’ll write about Abe Lincoln for several years now and I think it will be about Lincoln and the territories. When he was in Congress, he dealt with several issues involving territories, and as president, a different group of territories, including Arizona. I enjoy writing and this will be very interesting research.

WHAT MAKES ME HAPPY

I love what I do. I love education and I look forward to going to work

Continued on page 39

Attendees at Party in the Pines gave a cheer to raising $25,000 for the PUSD Education Foundation in 2019, the last time the event was held because of the pandemic. Courtesy photo

Quad Cities Solar Co-op Surpassing Membership Goal

The Quad Cities Solar Co-op launched on March 15, and has quickly blown past its membership goal of 50 residents. The solar co-op, a group formed to help residents go solar, just announced a new goal of 100 members.

The solar co-op, organized by non-profit group Solar United Neighbors (SUN), is free to join and open to homeowners and small business owners in the Quad Cities region. This includes residents in and around Prescott, Prescott Valley, Chino Valley and Dewey-Humboldt.

On Wednesday, March 22, SUN

Arizona Program Director Adrian Keller and local partners hosted a Solar 101 presentation at the Prescott Public Library to talk to residents about solar and explain how going through the co-op works. More than 60 residents from across Yavapai County attended the event.

“It’s thrilling to see so much immediate interest in local solar from the community,” said  SUN Arizona Program Director Adrian Keller. “We know that the process and considerations can be complicated, so it was great to see so many folks come out to the event and get their questions answered.”

Together, co-op members will

learn about solar energy and leverage their numbers to purchase individual solar systems at a competitive price and top quality. Solar United Neighbors has run solar co-ops across the state, ranging from 50 to 200 members, but this is the first one for Quad Cities area residents.

With so much initial interest, SUN has already put out a Request for Proposal (RFP) for solar installers to bid on the co-op. After collecting bids, SUN will facilitate a meeting for co-op members to select a single solar company to serve the group. Members are not obligated to purchase solar. Instead, they will have the option to individually purchase panels based on the selected installer’s group rate. SUN remains vendor-neutral through the selection process.

With the federal passage of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) in 2022, co-op members will also have the opportunity to use the solar tax credit for residential solar. The residential solar tax credit saves homeowners 30% on the full cost of a solar installation. A similar tax credit is also available to small businesses, who are invited to take part in the co-op.

The solar co-op will also help participants consider battery storage, which, paired with solar, helps bolster

the grid during extreme weather events like last summer’s monsoons. Thanks to the IRA, homeowners can take a 30% tax credit for battery storage for the next 10 years. The new legislation also makes it possible to receive the tax credit for stand-alone storage, no solar needed.

Partnering on the solar co-op are:

Yavapai Climate Change Coalition, Northern Arizona Climate Change Alliance, Sierra Club Yavapai Group and Interfaith Climate Action Team.

SUN has hosted 13 solar co-ops in Arizona since 2019. According to the group’s estimates, the 383 homes and businesses that now have solar panels because of co-ops represent

3,070 kW of solar power, $9 million in local solar spending and more than 89 million pounds of lifetime carbon offsets. Individuals interested in going solar can learn more and sign up for the co-op at solarunitedneighbors. org/quadcities. QCBN

Solar United Neighbors (SUN) hosts Solar 101 presentations for residents. Courtesy photo

Accessorize Your Hearing

By Jeff Lane, Au. D.

Technology is constantly evolving, often at a rapid pace, with the goal of improving and simplifying the experience of the user. If you buy a new phone, you get a pair of wireless earbuds. Hearing aids are similar. While modern hearing aids can significantly improve a wearer’s quality of life, some situations could still be improved with the addition of an accessory such as listening to someone behind you while hiking or catching all the information at a meeting. Fortunately, there are a wide range of accessories compatible with current hearing aid models.

REMOTE MICROPHONES

Remote microphones are a wonderful solution for improving communication between individuals. Let’s say that a hearing aid user is going on a tour. The tour guide will likely be at a distance from the user or often turned away. Obviously, this makes hearing the tour guide much more difficult for the person with hearing loss. Remote microphones eliminate this frustration by delivering the speaker’s voice directly to the hearing aids. The talker can be far away (typically 60 to 80 feet) or even turned away, and the user will still hear them perfectly clearly. Plus, it is all done wirelessly! And the microphones are small, meaning they are convenient to wear.

Also, they are fairly versatile. They can be used in the car, while hiking, in a restaurant or at home with the two individuals in different rooms. They’re also great for loved ones with very soft voices. Typically, remote microphones are designed for listening to a single talker, meaning they are not ideal for group situations. However, this also means that remote microphones are very affordable.

ROGER TECHNOLOGY

Before proceeding, it should be noted that Roger technology is specific to Phonak hearing aids. However, it is unique and beneficial enough that I felt it warranted inclusion. Roger technology is similar to a remote microphone, but far more advanced. First, it can be used in virtually any situation. It can be worn by an individual, or it can be placed on a table to hear multiple talkers. When listening to multiple talkers, it can either be automatic or manual. When automatic, it will adjust its directionality to amplify whoever is currently speaking. Or, the user can select which directions it wants the device to focus on. For example, if you only want to hear in front and to the left, you can designate that and the device will ignore everything else. Another advantage is that Rog-

er technology can actively cancel out background noise and increase the volume of the desired signal. Thus, you would have a much more favorable signal-to-noise ratio than with a regular remote microphone. Studies actually show that individuals with hearing loss can hear better than those with normal hearing in noisy situations when wearing hearing aids and Roger. While it does cost more, it is a wonderful solution for those who struggle to hear in noise.

TELEVISION STREAMERS

One of the first things a patient tells me during their hearing test is that they have to blast the TV in order to understand what is being said. Having properly fitting hearing aids will automatically help. But TV streamers can make it sound even better! Again, since the signal is being beamed straight to the aids, it eliminates the need for the sound to travel over distance and through other aural clutter. Another nice feature is that the actual TV volume isn’t affected, so other people can still hear the TV at a volume that is comfortable for them. Unfortunately, TV streamers can’t improve the sound mixing of a program or make British

accents any easier to decipher.

REMOTE CONTROLS

All hearing aids have buttons that allow you to adjust programs. However, this may not be the best option for some wearers. If someone has arthritis or neuropathy, they may not be able to press the button. A person with memory loss may not be able to remember where the button is or its purpose. In these situations, a remote control can be very handy. It is easy to handle and very clear on its operation. For those who want to be more discreet, there are applications for the phone that can act as a remote control as well.

To be clear, accessories are not required to use hearing aids. But for those who need or want a bit more assistance, they are worthwhile. As always, let your hearing care professional be your guide. 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.

While modern hearing aids can significantly improve a wearer’s quality of life, some situations could still be improved with the addition of an accessory such as listening to someone behind you while hiking or catching all the information at a meeting. Fortunately, there are a wide range of accessories compatible with current hearing aid models.

QC pet news

Sheltering Animals in Disasters

Volunteers practice drills, identify shelter locations

By Betsey Bruner, QCBN

Arecord-breaking winter of cold temperatures, snow, rain and flooding in Northern Arizona has provided much-needed precipitation but has also primed grasses and fuels that will burn quickly in a wildfire. The wildfire season is the most recurring threat in Yavapai County, but neighborhoods may also need to be evacuated quickly because of flooding, severe weather or hazardous waste spills.

Disasters never happen at a convenient time and strong emotions of fear and uncertainty can run high when emergencies force humans to evacuate their homes.

Statistics from FEMA show that in emergency evacuations, most people won’t leave home without their animals, but with a plan in place, they will be better prepared to evacuate quickly.

Such evacuations can also be frightening for others in the animal kingdom, including household pets such as cats and dogs. However, until recently, there has been a lack of safe havens for evacuated farm animals, such as horses, ponies, mules, donkeys, goats, sheep, chickens, pigs, rabbits, llamas and alpacas.

Disasters have increased in size and frequency, and as communities grow,

more animal owners are affected. Fortunately, Yavapai County is proactive in emergency preparedness. Serving the households of Yavapai County, two dedicated non-profit organizations partner with Emergency Management to provide animal shelter services at no cost to animal owners.

Animal Disaster Services (ADS) provides shelter to pets and small companion animals displaced by evacuations.

Large Animal Shelters and Emergency Readiness (LASER) provides a safe haven for barn animals during evacuations, sheltering equines, goats, sheep, poultry, pigs, llamas, alpacas and emus. Both organizations are powered entirely by volunteers and donations; there are no paid positions and no government funding is provided.

This spring, the outreach resources of both LASER and ADS have been merged to create a stronger force in emergency situations to help animals, large and small, in both urban and rural communities.

“In 2023, it’s a kind of renewed partnership between LASER and ADS,” said Cathy Heath, LASER director and secretary. “We’ve always worked alongside each other, because we both deal with animals. This year, we thought it would be good to join our efforts and get the message out about emergency preparedness and about the resources available for animals and our offer to make presentations to communities to help inform them.”

“The entire intake process was simulated with areas or our greeters and stalls. Some volunteers did role playing as animal owners, arriving at the LASER shelter with virtual animals and a variety of situations. The process was then reviewed in a roundtable discussion with input from everyone who participated.”

The two non-profits are members of the Yavapai County COAD (Community Organizations Active in Disaster), which is comprised of more than 20 organizations that may be activated to help people affected by disaster. With similar missions, ADS and LASER address not only animal needs during a disaster, but also the safety of neighbors as well. They have teamed up to make community presentations about the resources they offer to individuals, families and households in the county.

Heath notes that LASER has been activated by Yavapai County officials seven times for local wildfires and has been on standby six times. “The April 2022 Crooks Fire struck early in the year and took everyone by surprise,” she said. “LASER sheltered 29 animals for the evacuated residents of Walker for an unprecedented 14 days. Our communities must always be prepar ed.”

Heath said the sheltered animals included chickens, turkeys, goats and horses. “There was plenty of food. Olsen’s Grain provides the hay. That’s one of our great community partners.”

It was challenging to prepare for the wildfire season during extreme winter conditions, she said, but efforts have been stepped up in the spring. “It’s been a very wet winter, so LASER held our first drill at the Yavapai County Office of Emergency Management on March 29,” Heath said. “The entire intake process was simulated with areas for our greeters and stalls. Some volunteers did role playing as animal owners, arriving at the LASER shelter with virtual animals and a variety of situations. The process was then reviewed in a roundtable discussion with input from everyone who participated.”

There was another session in April, with two more scheduled for May and June.

Volunteers are at the heart of both organizations, and in LASER alone, there are currently about 60 volunteers.

“We’ve picked up a lot of new volunteers,” Heath noted. “It’s stayed pretty strong. We have a lot of compassionate people here. Everyone pulls together

when they are needed.”

Shelters are available at various predetermined locations depending on the locale and movement of disasters. The primary LASER shelter is in Prescott Valley, off Highway 89A, near Arizona Down. There, the Yavapai County Board of Supervisors has dedicated a parcel with 190 stalls as a Large Animal Evacuation Shelter and, under a written agreement, LASER will supply and staff it during evacuations.

Also, fundraising events for animal shelters have been effective. “In 2020, in spite of the pandemic, our communities rallied to raise over $40,000 to build a LASER shelter at the Chino Valley Equestrian Park,” Heath said. “This community has recognized this need, and they have always rallied for us. We’ve had great community support.”

Heath is one of six members of the LASER Board of Directors. “We are all very dedicated. What’s great about our board, each of us brings a different experience to the table, so we have a great balance within our board.”

Founded in 1999, ADS has provided shelter to pets displaced by fires and flooding, as well as warming shelters in the winter and cooling shelters in the summers when residents have been impacted by major power outages.

“One of my goals has been to reach out to organizations and work together to inform as many people as possible about pet emergency preparedness,” said ADS President Nancy Stamile. “I’m very happy to say we are achieving this goal. Working with a variety of rescue groups has also given us a better understanding of all the different evacuation needs. We are so proud to be a part of helping families, pets and other organizations in emergencies.”

Most recently, ADS provided two shelters simultaneously, with one in Camp Verde and the other in Black Canyon City, as a result of recent flooding, which impacted multiple communities throughout Yavapai County.

Supply trailers make ADS services mobile, as they are ready to be deployed to predetermined shelter locations within Yavapai County. Shelter locations have been selected based upon availability, accessibility and proximity to potential American Red Cross shelters.

“We always have to be ready,” Heath said. “With the Crook Fire, no one expected a fire that early in the year. They’re saying there’s really no fire season anymore; it could happen anytime.” QCBN

Large Animal Shelters and Emergency Readiness volunteers train for evacuations caused by wildfires, like the 2017 Goodwin Fire, and other disasters, such as recent flooding events. Courtesy photo

May Pet Celebrations

By Loree Walden

The month of May contains a few “pet holidays,” all of which are worth mentioning and sharing some information about.

First of all, May is National Pet Month! In my opinion, every month is National Pet Month, but I guess it’s official in May! I think I can say beyond a shadow of a doubt that our pets are extremely important to us and are part of our families. They bring us comfort, joy, laughter, health benefits, companionship, friendship and most importantly, unconditional love! THAT really is something to celebrate! If you don’t have a pet at home to celebrate, Yavapai Humane Society probably has your perfect new best friend, just waiting for you to celebrate with!

May is also Chip Your Pet Month, which is a good time to remind you about making sure your pets are microchipped and most importantly, the information attached to the microchip is current! If you have moved or changed your phone number, just make a quick call to your microchip company and update the information. A dog or cat that is microchipped without the correct information might as well not be microchipped. 93% of dogs and 75% of cats reported lost were returned safely to their homes due to them being microchipped. To better the odds of being reunited with their owners, pets should also wear identification collars with easy-to-read contact information including name of the pet, owner name and cell phone. It’s also a good idea to put “microchipped” or

“I’m chipped” on the tag, so whoever happens to find your pet knows it is microchipped.

Responsible Animal Guardian Month is also observed in May (again, I think this should be every month!). Being a responsible pet owner means making sure they are kept in a safe environment and not left out in the excessive heat or cold. Make sure they are healthy through annual wellness exams and keep up to date on vaccinations. Make sure they maintain a healthy weight and are provided with food that is good for them. I’ve done a lot of research on pet food lately because my dog is having some health issues and I have discovered it is because of the food I was feeding her, which included a lot of things I can’t pronounce, meat byproducts, fillers, and all-around bad stuff. I’ve started making her food from scratch from fresh meat and vegetables and not only has she started losing the weight she needs to, and she’s getting more active and feeling better, which is what matters the most!

Being responsible also includes making sure your pet has the proper training it needs, learns socialization around other people and animals and gets the proper amount of exercise

and mental and physical stimulation it needs. Daily walks are not only good for your pet, but it helps you too!

May 5th is Cinco de Meow Day! Not sure how to celebrate that, but I’m picturing a fiesta hat on my cat, and a margarita for me!

May 8th is National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day! Another part of being a responsible pet owner is being ready for an emergency. Making an emergency preparedness kit for your pet and having it in a handy place is important should you need to evacuate quickly. This kit should include a 5- to 7-day supply of bottled water and your pet’s food, stored in a waterproof container. Food and water bowls. Medications and veterinary/medical records and Veterinarians contact information (it’s a good idea to keep these items in a Ziploc bag or waterproof packaging). A First Aid Kit for Pets. Leash and harness. Flashlight and batteries. Potty bags. Current photos and description of pets. Blankets, favorite toys, beds and other items to give them comfort. Litter, litterbox and scoop if you have cats.

If you have crates to carry your pets in, make sure they are in a place where you can get to them quickly. And

most importantly, make a plan! Many emergency evacuation shelters do not accept pets, so be sure to do your research on them and if possible, make arrangements with family or friends who aren’t in an evacuation zone to help care for your pets.

National Rescue Dog Day is our final pet holiday to celebrate in May, on the 20th. The goal of this day is to promote the adoption of dogs from shelters and rescue organizations. There are an estimated three million dogs in shelters across the United States waiting to be adopted. That’s a lot of furry friends in need of homes! By raising awareness about the number of adoptable dogs in need of homes, National Rescue Dog Day encourages people to consider adoption when bringing a new dog into their lives.

If you are thinking about adding a furry friend to your family, Yavapai Humane Society would love to help you find your furever friend! Visit yavapaihumane.org to see all the animals available for adoption or give us a call at 928-445-2666 for more information! QCBN

Loree Mae Walden, marketing director for Yavapai Humane Society.

May is also Chip Your Pet Month, which is a good time to remind you about making sure your pets are microchipped and most importantly, the information attached to the microchip is current!

Bronze of Prescott Fighter Pilot Being Created for Airport

By Ray Newton and Stan Bindell, QCBN

Prescott-based sculptor Bill Nebeker is working on an eightfoot statue of Prescott World War I fighter pilot hero Ernest A. Love, which will be placed at the entry of Prescott Regional Airport, Arizona’s third busiest airport.

The Prescott City Council voted unanimously March 28 to approve $125,000 for Nebeker’s creation. The statue is funded by the Arizona Community Foundation and Friends of the Airport. The statue is expected to be placed there by April 30, 2024.

Prescott Mayor Phil Goode said the statue will be a great addition to the airport, placed in front of the new terminal. The old terminal was built in the 1940s. Prescott Airport was built in

1928 and was the second in Arizona, with Tucson having the first in 1919.

“The statue will remind people of the history of Arizona and will promote the city at a nominal cost,” said Goode. “Bill is a world-renowned sculptor. It’s fortunate that we have someone of his caliber who combines Western art and aviation.”

Nebeker said he was honored that the Art in Public Places Committee selected him. The hardest part, he said, was researching Love so he knew how to authentically portray him in bronze. “Love was an amazing young man.”

Nebeker learned that Love excelled in athletics and academics at Prescott High School. He studied engineering at Stanford for three years and was at the top of his class. He quit during his third year because of his fascination with

airplanes. He was sent to flight school in San Diego.

Nebeker also learned that Love wrote home to his parents every week. Nebeker read those letters for his research, which are stored at Sharlot Hall. A book about him, written by a second-generation cousin, is in the Prescott Library.

Love was severely wounded when his plane was shot down over France. He died a few days later. This happened two months before the war ended. Love was considered to be missing in action for several months. Later, his body was buried at Arlington Cemetery.

Nebeker is known nationally for his bronze statue creations. He sculpted the one by the roundabout near Phippen Museum. He has another one on Courthouse Plaza that pays tribute to fallen officers. His statue of early settlers is in Glendale and a statue of a territorial marshal is located at the Arizona Department of Public Safety headquarters in Phoenix. He also makes coffee-table sized bronze statues.

Nebeker started working in a bronze foundry in 1967 and remained there for eight years. He has been an independent artist since that time. His work can be found at Mountain Spirit Gallery on Whiskey Row. It is also online and in galleries throughout the country. QCBN

“The statue will remind people of the history of Arizona and will promote the city at a nominal cost,” said Goode. “Bill is a world-renowned sculptor. It’s fortunate that we have someone of his caliber who combines Western art and aviation.”

Bronze sculptor Bill Nebecker displays a lot of love with a miniature and larger-than-life statue of Presoctt World War I fighter pilot Ernest A. Love.

Photo by Stan Bindell

Addressing Mental Health with Focus Zones at Cottonwood-Oak Creek School District

By Steve King

Take a moment and think back to your school days. When you or your classmates acted out emotionally or disrupted class, the punishment would likely range from being sent to a corner, sent home or suspended. While this may still work for kids who are momentarily rebelling, there are others who misbehave as a cry for help.

Cottonwood-Oak Creek School District meets those students with understanding by giving them a safe space to get better – and to be better. We have spent years challenging traditional disciplinary actions that fail to address students’ mental health and the underlying cause of the issues.

I always say, “If there wasn’t a problem, there wouldn’t be a problem.” In other words, if there weren’t any problems in the student’s life, they wouldn’t exhibit problematic behavior in the classroom. Years ago, I dug into the science behind this concept and familiarized myself with Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs).

The CDC defines ACEs as potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood that could impact health and well-being. This includes abuse, growing up in a family with mental health or substance use problems, lacking basics like food and housing, and more. Approximately 70% of students in our school district receive free and reduced lunch, and 150 students are experiencing homelessness.

When students struggle with their mental health, whether as a result of abuse, neglect or trauma, it is difficult for them to be engaged in the learning environment, so they often resort to attention-seeking or avoidance behaviors. They can become disruptive in the classroom, and that impacts their learning, but it also impacts the learning of students around them.

Our district introduced a Focus Zone in 2017 to get to the root of behavioral issues in the classroom rather than putting a Band-Aid on it. The Focus Zone is a safe space where students can work on academics and shift negative-impulse behaviors into positive choice be-

haviors with the help of counselors, teachers and a paraprofessional. It is a reset zone more than anything, where kids can regulate and get back to class instead of sitting at home or getting suspended.

With a $150,000 Mobilize AZ grant from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona in 2018, we expanded the program and established more Focus Zones. With additional funding sources, we now have Focus Zones on all four campuses.

Seeing the progress in students’ behavior and mental health firsthand has been nothing short of incredible. Namely, there was one fourth grader who was having a really hard time controlling himself and he constantly caused disruptions in the classroom. He started going to the Focus Zone and learned the shark pose, a calming technique, and he ended up utilizing that pose to stay in class. The bottom line is, we don’t want students to rely upon going somewhere else to regulate their emotions; we want to give them the skills to recognize they can do it themselves.

Focus Zones are still one of the main concentration areas of our district, and the success stories keep coming. To date, there have been more than 7,750 Focus Zone visits. But there are other programs and

activities we have introduced to inspire health and growth. Our school district has approximately 70 different afterschool clubs, including biking, archery, dance, music, gar-

Continued on page 36

A Focus Zone is designed to be a safe space where students can work on academics and shift any negative-impulse behaviors into positive choice behaviors.

Considering Charitable Gifts through IRA Distributions

By Lisa Sahady

This may seem an odd time of year to think about your IRA distribution. Most of us think about making a qualified charitable distribution when the weather is cooler and the holidays are around the corner. There is something about the holiday season that awakens the giving spirit for many. Making a qualified charitable distribution from your IRA account can happen any time of year to support your favorite qualified charity or charities.

For anyone aged 72 and older, there is a Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) that must be taken each year. If you have a traditional IRA, taxes will be owed on distribution from the IRA, unless given to charity. A simple conversation with your IRA manager and the completion of a form can turn your RMD into a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD). If you do not need some or all of your RMD, make a gift to your favorite charity, and that portion of your distribution is tax-free. You can also talk with your IRA manager about making a charity a

beneficiary of your IRA. Complete a beneficiary designation form identifying a charity as your primary or secondary beneficiary. If you have more than one charity you would like to be recognized in this way, help is available. If you would like, let the charity or charities know you have left this future gift.

Starting at the age of 70½, an individual can make a QCD from their IRA account up to $100,000. The individual does not pay taxes on a QCD. The QCD, although considered an IRA distribution, does not increase the individual’s annual income, and the QCD may lower future Required Minimum Distributions. Talk with your tax professional to see if this is a good strategy for charitable giving. The best benefit: feeling the joy of giving to your favorite charity or charities.

There are a few requirements and restrictions when making a QCD. The Qualified Charitable Distribution must go directly to the charity, it cannot come to the IRA owner first.

Qualified Charitable Distributions cannot be made to a donor advised fund. QCDs must be received by a

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qualified charity no later than Dec. 31 to qualify for a deduction during the current tax year. Let the charity know that you have made this gift and if you plan to designate the funds for a specific program (designated gift) or if you will allow the charity to decide how best to use your gift (unrestricted gift). Either way, your gift will make a great impact. Having a charitable spirit can be

Bonnie Stevens' Communication Station is delivering a refreshing, engaging and inspirational vodcast (video podcast) that features Northern Arizona businesses, outdoor adventure and leadership tips twice a month. Zonie Living is sponsored in part by Quad Cities Business News. Go to https://starworldwidenetworks.com/shows/bonnie-stevens

represented in many ways. Using an IRA is just one, and it could have tax benefits. Please speak with your tax professional; the information contained in this article is not intended as tax advice and is not a substitute for tax advice. QCBN

Lisa Sahady is the regional director for the Arizona Community

Foundation of Yavapai County. Since 2016, she has helped increase ACF of Yavapai County’s asset base by building relationships with professional advisors, individual donors and non-profit organizations. She received her Certified Gift Planning Professional designation through Crescendo’s Gift College for complex estate planning. She can be reached at lsahady@azfoundation.org.

Team Up to Clean Up 26

Saturday, May 6

Help Clean Up Prescott Valley

• 8:30am - Check in with coffee and donuts

• 9am - Clean up Prescott Valley

• 11:30am - Lunch ready - CAFMA bbq chefs

• 12pm - Prizes and awards Chamber office at 7120 E. Pav Way, Suite 102, PV 928-772-8857

45th annual Prescott Valley Days

“Never Ending Neon, It’s a Colorful World”

May 11-14, 2023

Carnival talent show, Fiesta del Pueblo, parade, 5k Fun Run, cosplay contest, vendor marketplace, youth and community entertainment, food trucks, beer garden, and live music

Also on Saturday tailgating and a NAZ Wranglers game. Presale discount carnival tickets available at chamber until May 10.

Complete schedule of activities can be found on www.pvchamber.org

Presenting sponsor - Yavapai College

Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce; Catalysts for business and community growth, Conveners of leaders and influencers, Champions for economic success.

For more information or for membership connections visit pvchamber.org or call 928-772-8857

Identifying Best Smelling Plants for Outdoor Gardens

By Ken Lain

Arizona is famous for outdoor activities. When all this activity brings the party to your deck, patio or pool’s edge, the fragrance of the garden should be positive and uplifting to the friends that gather. This is the perfect place to add sweetly scented plants for ambiance. Forget the candles and citronella. The right plants remind us why the mountains of Arizona are meant to be enjoyed outdoors.

The fragrance of many plants intensified at night are yet another reason to relax under the stars. Enjoy the aromas of the sweetest-smelling plants at the garden center today.

What’s the first thing we do when we see a flower? Most of us smell it, of course. Children primarily identify the sight of a blossom with fragrance. While we can occasionally be surprised, disappointed or repulsed by a plant’s odor, its scent is essential to gardens.

Using fragrant plants in the landscape is not a new concept. The botanical reason for plant fragrance is simple. Humans identify hundreds of odors. Many trigger solid reactions and emotions. Smells attract pollinators to the flowers. White or

pastel blossoms seem to have more potent scents. This trait is probably to help them compete with their more brightly colored cousins.

The fragrance is not limited to flowers. Heavenly aromas are found in other parts of the plant’s foliage, seeds and bark. Herbs are perfect examples.

Viburnum by the front entrance to your home invites guests to take a moment to stop and smell the flowers. Remember, our prevailing Southwest mountain wind directs the aroma. You want to place fragrant plants where they can be appreciated.

Best Planting Locations

Container Gardens on Rolling Caddies - create your own portable plant aromatherapy using rolling plant caddies under your containers. Move them where you want.

Open the Window - any window that allows a breeze to enter your home is enhanced by the fragrance of plants.

Porches, Patios, Decks - anywhere you have seating is a great place to enjoy fragrant plants, especially evening blooming plants like jasmine and moonflower. A solitary bench in the garden is an excellent place to escape.

Trellis to Climb - bring the fra-

grance up to nose level. Arbors, especially over garden gates and pergolas, bring the aroma to you.

Walkways and Entry - passers-by enjoy the aroma of blooms. Scented leaves release their scent when brushed as you walk by.

Here is a list of the best plants for easy fragrance through your gardens.

Annual flowers bloom in riotous waves of fragrant colors. The best flowers are Alyssum, Marigold, Nasturtium, Pansy, Petunia, Poppy, Primrose, Stock and Viola.

Evergreens are famous in the mountains of Arizona for their pitchy pine scent. Many have incredible flowers with a fragrance that outdoes most. Evergreens with aromas are Azalea, Cypress, Deador Cedar, Desert Broom, Holly, Euonymus, Juniper, Lavender, Pine, Rosemary, Silver Berry, Spanish Broom and Waxleaf Privet.

Herbs - Most herbs are fragrant. Sage and rosemary are undeniably fragrant. Creeping thyme is used as a ground cover in stepping stone walkways simply because it smells good when stepped on. Almost the entire family of herbs is fragrant: Basil, Bay, Catmint, Chamomile, Lavender, Mint, Oregano, Scented Geranium, and Thyme.

Perennials at the top of the fragrant list would have to be Astilbe, Candytuft, Daylily, Dianthus, Hosta, Iris, Lilies, Lily-of-the-Valley, Peony, Phlox, Primrose, Russian Sage, Sedum, Sweet Woodruff and Verbena.

Shrubs are more fragrant for one reason only: their size. The most fragrant of all would be Butterfly Bush, Cotoneaster, Daphne, Forsythia, Gardenia, Lilac, Manzanita, Mock Orange, Osmanthus, Roses, Viburnum, Big Sage Bush and Silverberry.

Trees come in all scents and flavors. The most notable local trees for uplifting aromas are Crabapple, Flowering Cherry, Crape Myrtle, Chitalpa, Fruit Trees, Serviceberry, Pine and Spruce.

Vines are ideal for climbing up arches, pergolas, fences and deck posts for a fragrance that reaches any location. Have them climb or spread out as a ground cover. Here are the top picks: Akebia, Clematis, Climbing Roses, Honeysuckle, Jasmine, Lady Banks Rose, Sweet pea and Wisteria. Until next month, I’ll be helping gardeners grow more fragrant gardens 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 website at WattersGardenCenter.com or Top10Plants.com.

Bringing Attention to Resources in Recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month

By Deanna Eder

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and educating the public about the importance of mental health. Mental health is a vital component of our overall health and well-being, yet it is often overlooked or stigmatized. Mental health conditions can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race or socioeconomic status.

The last three years have had a significant impact on mental health, with many people experiencing increased levels of stress, anxiety and depression. The pandemic has highlighted the need for increased access to mental health services and support. Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to address these issues and raise awareness about the importance of mental health.

One of the most important messages of Mental Health Awareness Month is that mental health is just as important as physical health. We all have mental health, just as we all have physical health. Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel and behave, and influences our relationships, work and overall quality

of life.

Mental health conditions can range from mild to severe and can have a significant impact on a person’s life. Some common mental health conditions include anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. These conditions can be treated with therapy, medication, or a combination of both. However, many people do not seek help because of the stigma or lack of access to care.

Stigma surrounding mental health is a significant barrier to seeking help. Stigma can prevent people from talking openly about their experiences and seeking the support they need. It can also lead to discrimination and exclusion. Mental Health Awareness Month aims to challenge stigma and promote understanding and acceptance of mental health conditions.

Another key message of Mental Health Awareness Month is the importance of self-care. Taking care of our mental health is essential for our overall well-being. Self-care can involve a range of activities, such as getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, practicing mindfulness and connecting with others.

Connecting with others is particu-

larly important for our mental health. Social support can help us cope with stress, reduce feelings of isolation, and promote a sense of belonging. However, the pandemic has made it more challenging to connect with others, particularly for those who are isolated or experiencing financial hardship.

Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to highlight the importance of social support and encourage people to reach out to others.

Mental Health Awareness Month also aims to promote access to mental health services and support. Unfortunately, many people do not have access to affordable, high-quality mental health care. This can be due to a lack of resources, long wait times, or stigma surrounding mental health. Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to advocate for increased funding for mental health services and promote policies that improve access to care.

There are also many resources available for people who are struggling with their mental health. Mental health hotlines, such as the new 988 National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, are available 24/7 for people who need someone to talk to. Online resources, such as ther-

apy apps and or tele-health, can also be helpful for people who are unable to access in-person care.

In conclusion, Mental Health Awareness Month is an important opportunity to raise awareness and promote understanding of mental health. Mental health is a vital component of our overall health and well-being, and it is essential that we prioritize

it. By challenging stigma, promoting self-care, and advocating for increased access to mental health services and support, we can help improve the lives of those who are struggling with mental health conditions.

Deanna Eder is the director of marketing and communications at Polara Health.

ADDRESS //

BY PHIL GOODE

Granite Creek Corridor Project Expected to Be Completed By Summer

By Phil Goode

As the city’s Granite Creek Corridor improvements are moving toward a conclusion, I would like to take this opportunity to remind our citizens about this project and provide current information and an account of the history.

The Granite Creek Corridor project is almost four years in the making.

Back in 2019, city staff identified an opportunity to enhance one of Prescott’s great natural assets, Granite Creek and the associated trail running alongside. Over the years, the creek had fallen into disarray, with encroachment from urban development, non-native species growing on the banks, and general deterioration of the banks and the water flow. In addition, the trail gained a reputation as being

In my opinion, once completed, this one-mile stretch along Granite Creek will provide a scenic, safe and accessible trail for citizens and visitors. Prescott is known for its trails, lakes and other natural assets. With a modest investment, the city has created a trail and public space for our citizens and visitors to enjoy for years to come.

unsafe and unclean. Most citizens said they generally avoided the trail.

Knowing all of this, Prescott City Council formed a committee consisting of citizens and staff. Their first task was to ask citizens what they would like to see when we improve this amenity. A planning firm was hired to garner feedback from citizens, business leaders and others. Public open houses were also held and surveys conducted to garner citizen feedback. From that feedback, a master plan was created to guide the project.

The master plan document states the long-term goals of the project are as follows:

ƒ Clean up and restore the beauty and native landscape of the corridor, allowing the riparian habitat to thrive and water quality to improve.

ƒ Improve the usability of the trail in the downtown corridor, allowing greater access and enhanced safety.

ƒ Improve opportunities for interpretation of Prescott history and resources.

What is a Boot Camp?

By Westin Lahr

When considering the term “boot camp,” most would think of the intense exercise training regime when starting in a branch of the military to get the new recruits in shape for battle. Although that is an accurate description, there are also other forms of boot camps. One example is a boot camp training facility for the public. In this type of boot camp, the most common exercise program is called HIIT, which stands for High Intensity Interval Training. It is led by a fitness coach and is typically in a group session. The HIIT description pretty much says it all – it is intense and one could view the coach as a drill sergeant.

The workouts have multiple stations, similar to circuit training, and often include various forms of cardio exercises, such as use of air bikes,

rowing machines, skier machines, running, jumping jacks, squats, Bosu Ball taps, etc. Also included are ab exercises, such as sit-ups, Russian twists, planks, bicycle crunches and so on. Don’t forget bicep and tricep exercises such as pushups, overhead tricep extensions, kettle bell swings, dead lifts, incline dumbbell curls and hammer curls. Then there are gluteus maximus exercises (OK, that is the technical term for one’s behind), such as glute bridges, hip extensions, wall sits and much more. Essentially, you are getting a full-body workout at a boot camp and there will be a different focus each day.

The beauty of a boot camp is that it is a beneficial exercise for both men and women of all ages, in all shapes and sizes. In fact, there are even 80-year-olds who show up to work out at boot camps. If the coach is tough, remember, he or she is sim-

ilar to a drill sergeant and wants to challenge you to get optimal results. However, one should start off slowly and build up to his or her full potential. In other words, if it is brand new to you, start at 60% and, in time, you will build up to 100%. The key is consistency and if you attend a boot camp three or more times per week, you most certainly are going to see results.

One very important tip: Don’t eat before you go to a boot camp workout. It is much more beneficial, in more ways than one, to work out on an empty stomach or at least just eat something small such as a banana, granola bar or protein shake.

Although this is not the same precise type of boot camp you will see in the Marines, how about we shout out a big OORAH and give it a try! QCBN

Westin Lahr is an NASM certified personal trainer and fitness coach who has been an instructor at boot camps for more than four years. He has a passion for fitness and exercise and enjoys helping others reach their personal fitness goals.

TriumFit Bootcamp is located at 1438 W. Gurley St. 928-3791612. www.triumfitbootcamp. com

ƒ Reduce the risk of flood conditions for the properties along the creek.

Along with stream bank restoration activities, amenities such as lights, benches and an ADA accessible entrance were planned to make this a safe and accessible trail.

The improvements begin at Aubrey to the south, going north to end in Granite Creek Park. The trail goes through the heart of Prescott’s historic downtown and provides unique perspectives on businesses along the creek.

The total budget for the project was set at just over $3 million. The city received funding from the Arizona State Parks and Trails in the amount of $1 million. There was an unrestricted private donation of $656,000. The streets fund paid $640,000. An additional $220,000 was provided by the Bed Tax, from tourism dollars. The total outlay from the General Fund was under $500,000.

After some delays related

to the grant funding and other factors, work began along the creek in the third quarter of 2022. Expected completion date has been delayed most recently by the extremely wet winter season; however, work continues and is expected to be completed by summer. In my opinion, once completed, this one-mile stretch along Granite Creek will provide a scenic, safe and accessible trail for citizens and visitors. Prescott is known for its trails, lakes and other natural assets. With a modest investment, the city has created a trail and public space for our citizens and visitors to enjoy for years to come. All of the information about the plan, including Master Plan and other documents, are available here https://www.prescott-az.gov/ city-management/programs/granite-creek-corridor-master-plan/.

QCBN

Phil Goode is the mayor of Prescott.

The beauty of a boot camp is that it is a beneficial exercise for both men and women of all ages, in all shapes and sizes. In fact, there are even 80-year-olds who show up to work out at boot camps.

YC Celebrates National Recognition for Leadership, Student Success Initiative

By Lisa B. Rhine, Ph.D.

Yavapai College was recently recognized on the national level by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC).

Deb McCasland, Yavapai College

District Governing Board chair, was named the National Trustee of the Year, a tremendous honor and one that is so well deserved. In addition, the college Promise Program and I were finalists for Outstanding Student Success Initiative and CEO of the Year.

McCasland, a YC alumna who has served on the District Governing Board for eight years, the last three as chair, was nominated for AACC Trustee of the Year by Dr. David B. Borofsky, director of the Arizona Association of Community College Trustees. The award honors a trustee who has made significant contributions to the college, demonstrated exceptional leadership and presided over significant achievements that benefit the college, district, state, system or foundation.

In his nomination letter, Borofsky lauded McCasland’s “amazing growth” as a leader, her tireless community engagement and statewide advocacy efforts, and her unmatched passion for student success. “She is THE trustee focused on student success,” Borofsky wrote.

In my four short years at YC as president, Chair McCasland has avidly supported YC, its students and our

communities. She is a true leader, and her passion and dedication toward student success never waivers.

In 1976, Deb started her 34-year career as the Student Activities director at Yavapai College. Her most successful achievements were founding and developing the Community Events program and the Performing Arts Charitable Endowment. In 2010, Deb was chosen as an Outstanding Yavapai College alumnus and retired from Yavapai College in 2011 as director of Major Gifts. She has been elected three times to represent Dis-

trict 2 on the Yavapai College District Governing Board.

The AACC is a non-profit advocacy organization for the nation’s community colleges. It represents nearly 1,200 institutions and more than 11 million students. The Awards of Excellence reflect and advance the association’s priorities and spotlight “promising practices” among member colleges.

It was overwhelming to attend the national awards gala. And for YC to be a finalist in three categories, and win one, shows that we are moving

in the right direction and our peers throughout the country recognize it.

QCBN

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

In February 2019, Dr. Lisa B. Rhine became the 10th president of Yavapai College, bringing to the institution over 30 years of leadership experience across a number of leading colleges and universities in Ohio, Kentucky and Virginia. Dr. Rhine assumed

Spring Cleaning Brings Renewal

By Lucy Leyva

Acouple weeks ago while taking a walk on the trails at Watson Lake, I looked all around at the dark, cloudy skies and the barren cold trees. As I looked a little closer, there was a hint of green on the very tips of the Cottonwoods. Could it be? I examined the trees up close, and sure enough, there they were, little green sprouts on the tips of the branches. I absolutely love Spring. Everything is so fresh and beautiful. Things start to bloom, and the overall feeling is that of energy and renewal.

We can feel this way at home, too, and explore the possibilities of rectifying any negative effect that the winter has had while preparing for the upcoming warmer weather and plan projects to improve our homes and yards.

The last several months have brought in dust and dirt from wet roads, wind and rain. Your home has most likely been closed for a while,

without a lot of fresh air. Heaters and fireplaces have been running. It’s time to clean things up and start fresh.

If you have a fireplace, it is a good time to get it checked out and cleaned by a professional. The same applies to the duct work in your house that circulates the air from your heater and air conditioning unit. There are several companies in the area that can check out the duct work and make sure it is clean and nothing has come loose during the winter months.

Another money-saving idea is to have the ductwork sealed after it is cleaned so that it is energy efficient. This is also a good time to have your air conditioning unit checked out. If you wait until the hottest month (usually June) and something goes wrong, you may have to wait in line for someone to come fix it.

Consider power washing any drainage areas in your yard, around your house and clearing out the gutters of debris. Power washing can also

clean your driveways and walkways much better than just sweeping or rinsing down with a hose. It is also a necessary step in preparing for any painting fixes or projects you may have on the outside of your house. It will strip away the dirt and loose, peeling paint so that your new paint will look beautiful and last longer.

My favorite thing to have done once spring comes is to have all my windows professionally cleaned, including all the screens and tracks. It feels so good to have all that dirt and buildup cleaned away so that I can clearly see the gorgeous weather and views that our area offers. Having crystal clean and clear windows makes the whole house feel newer, cleaner and fresher.

Have carpets, rugs, upholstery and tile cleaned. There’s been a lot of traffic trampled all over your floors. There have been holiday parties, food spills, wet boots, dog paws, sweet but muddy kids and who knows what else going in and out of the house

this role with a commitment to advance the mission of the college while ensuring access and support to those for whom opportunities may have been historically limited or denied.

Yavapai College offers over 100 degrees and certificates, student and community services, and cultural events and activities at six locations throughout Yavapai County, including campuses in Prescott and Clarkdale, and centers in Prescott Valley, Chino Valley, Sedona and the Prescott Airport.

Enjoy

Lucy Leyva is the owner of Prescott Maid to Order.

Yavapai College receives prestigious awards from the American Association of Community Colleges. AACC representatives flank YC District Governing Board Chair Deb McCasland and YC President Lisa Rhine. Courtesy photos

How Crews are Repairing Potholes after Wet Winter

Welcome to “At Home With Tom and Sandy.” This month Tom and I thought we would take a road trip – but on that road trip, we will likely see lots of potholes. Settle in. This is going to be a great ride.

Sandy: Yikes Tom, potholes, potholes and more potholes. This wet, longish winter is wreaking havoc on our roads.

Tom: Sure is! Swerving to avoid them could make it look like you are a suspect for a DUI.

Sandy: Tom, I would like to invite Wyatt Orr, president of Earth Resources Corporation, to join us and provide some feedback from the guy who knows about this sort of thing –roads.

Sandy: Welcome, Wyatt. I am thrilled you can join us.

Wyatt: Glad to be here.

Tom: Wyatt, not only is it great to have you join Sandy and me, I also want to let our readers know that you are a YCCA Board member, and we are grateful for your expertise.

Sandy: We are talking about potholes, well actually everybody is talking about potholes, which seemed to appear overnight. Wyatt, what causes a pothole?

Wyatt: Potholes are a result of the subgrade under the asphalt failing, which means water got under the asphalt.

Tom: So, once the subgrade gets wet, does that impact the structural capability to support the asphalt?

Wyatt: Exactly. The wet subgrade is a base for the asphalt. When it becomes pliable from water, it no longer works.

Sandy: A squishy subbase causes the asphalt to fail?

Wyatt: Actually, the vehicles driving over the asphalt, i.e., the weight of the vehicle on the asphalt, moves the dirt subbase and displaces it.

Tom: Which, in turn, causes the asphalt to crack further, letting more water in, exacerbating the whole destruction process.

Sandy: Some potholes look as though the asphalt is gone. Does it crumble up and disappear below the surface?

Wyatt: It can, but more likely the vehicles driving over the cracked asphalt have caused the asphalt to be

displaced along the road, leaving a pothole.

Sandy: So, cars and trucks make potholes.

Wyatt: Essentially, yes. If nobody drove over the area affected by water under the surface, I suppose it could dry out and not grow up to be a fullfledged pothole.

Tom: It seems road maintenance is key in preventing the water from getting under the asphalt in the first place.

Wyatt: Yes, it is.

Sandy: There are several different methods of maintaining the roads. Wyatt, could you run us through some of them?

Wyatt: Sure. There are three basic approaches to maintaining roads. They all address a different way to seal the surface of the asphalt, preventing water from getting below.

Tom: Over time, all road surfaces made from asphalt need to be maintained. Use and weather cause the surface to wear and crack.

Sandy: I suppose how a road deteriorates will determine what method to implement in maintaining it.

Wyatt: Exactly. The first step is crack seal. You have seen this being done; I am sure. A traffic lane is closed off as one team is out in front using compressed air to clean the cracks in the asphalt. This will allow the secondary team’s sealant to adhere better to the asphalt and protect the asphalt longer.

Sandy: Wyatt, sometimes I see crack seal being applied in warmer weather.

Wyatt: Well, yes, but crack fill is best done in cooler temperatures when the asphalt has contracted. The next step would be a seal treatment of some type. There are several to choose from.

Tom: Is this method chosen when the cracks are too numerous to seal individually?

Wyatt: Actually, the crack fill is done first and then some coating can be applied. When an asphalt surface has experienced a significant amount of wear but is not to the point of remove and replace, a chip seal coat or wear layer can be applied.

Sandy: That extends the life of a road quite a bit, I imagine.

Tom: It must be difficult for the governing districts to keep up with

road maintenance. It must be costly and labor intensive.

Sandy: I am sure you are right, Tom. I do, however, think that they all do a fairly good job staying on top of things.

Wyatt: They do, but with the freeze and thaw of a winter, the damage can be extensive and spread out all over a road system.

Sandy: OK good, we are back to potholes! Wyatt, why do some fixes stay and some do not?

Wyatt: A lot of the repairs that do not seem to work are really intended to be temporary fixes.

Tom: Like filling a pothole that is dangerous?

Sandy: The kind that causes you to need a realignment on your vehicle or can swallow your smart car.

Wyatt: LOL, yes. If the pothole poses a danger, road crews will fill the hole with what we call a cold mix, asphalt that is in a bag, making the road a little safer until the real repair can be done.

Tom: The real repair can be put off for weather reasons, such as too cold or too wet, and scheduling.

Wyatt: Exactly. Road crews can be stretched thin during this time of year. And weather plays a huge factor in

when a repair can happen.

Sandy: So, Wyatt, what is entailed with a “real repair?”

Wyatt: Typically, the existing surface that is damaged, including the surface surrounding the pothole, not just the pothole itself, and the area is saw cut with the asphalt removed. The subbase we talked about earlier is removed to solid ground. New base material is then put back and compacted to create a dense and solid substrate. Hot asphalt is then put on the base and compacted in place.

Tom: What is done to protect the joint where the new asphalt meets the old?

Wyatt: A product we call Tak oil is spread all over the cut on the existing asphalt and that seals the joint quite well.

Sandy: It is quite the process to repair a pothole properly. It makes sense to me. Wyatt, thank you for joining us this month. You are a wealth of information for our readers.

Wyatt: After one of the wettest winters that the northern part of Ariona has seen for many years, I do want to give hats off to ADOT and their teams for making initial pothole patching repairs on State Route 69 so quickly.

Sandy: I guess we could blame this

on the Groundhog for the six additional weeks of winter. Those potholes sure did pop up quickly after moisture seeped into and below the pavement.

Wyatt: Potholes are acute in our area. With the higher elevations, our pavement is subjected to more freezethaw cycles than so many other areas.

Sandy: I say patience, as our jurisdictions and ADOT are addressing the aftermath to our road system as quickly as they can.

Thanks for stopping in and reading “At Home with Tom and Sandy.”

You are in good company, and we love sharing educational, fun and important information with you. QCBN

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

Vinny Gallegos, CYMPO, 928-442-5730.

Tom Reilly, Architect, Renovations, 928445-8506 renovationsaz.com

Remember to tune in to YCCA’s Hammer Time every Saturday and Sunday morning 7 a.m. on KQNA 1130 AM/99.9 FM/95.5FM or the web kqna.com. Listen to Sandy and Mike talk about the construction industry and meet your local community partners. Hammer Time is a great way to start your weekend.

Considering the Right Promotional Product for your Brand and Purpose

By Vance Janckila

Promotional products, otherwise known as merch or swag, are a great way to promote your business. These can be any number of items such as pens, shirts, stickers and water bottles, to name a few. The purpose of promotional products is found in its name, they are to promote your business, your cause or your brand. In a general sense, promotional products are any item that has your logo on it that is used to raise awareness of your cause.

When choosing an item, it’s important to keep in mind who your target market is and how you plan to use the item in your advertising campaign. For example, if your target market is higher end, you want to get an item that has a higher perceived value or quality. You also want the item

to be useful and reusable, that way after using your item and seeing your logo you will be at the front of their mind when something related to your business comes up. The next thing to consider is the quality of the product. If it breaks or your logo wears off quickly, then the item no longer serves the purpose of displaying and promoting your brand. Quality is not always the highest priority; for example, if you have a limited-time promotion, something cheap that draws people in might be a good fit.

With tens of thousands of items to choose from, how do you know which ones will be suitable for you and what will be the best item given your unique circumstances?

Getting in touch with a promotional products advisor who can curate a

list of items, has connections with the vendors and knows which vendors offer quality products will streamline the process to ensure the success of your promotional products campaign. QCBN

Vance Janckila is the production manager at Arizona Cap & Apparel. He specializes in decorating apparel using several techniques, such as screen printing and direct-to-garment printing. For more information, visit arizonacap.com.

Diabetes Self-Management Helps People Feel Empowered, Encouraged, Enlightened

By Bridget O’Gara

If you have diabetes, you’re not alone. One in 10 Yavapai County residents lives with the condition.

“It’s pretty widespread,” said Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC) Director of Preventive Medicine and Wellness Andrea Klein, RN, BSN, CDCES, CCRP. “Even with numbers like this, people who have diabetes can feel isolated.”

YRMC’s Diabetes Self-Management program helps people living with the condition overcome feelings of isolation. During five weekly sessions, participants learn strategies that empower them to effectively manage their diabetes. The program is for anyone with diabetes, from the newly diagnosed to people who have lived with the condition for years.

“Group members become each oth er’s cheerleaders and champions,” said YRMC Diabetes Educator Bonita Wilson, RN, CDCES. “The camaraderie creates a positive learning environment.”

YRMC’s Diabetes Self-Management five sessions focus on:

ƒ Managing Your Diabetes

ƒ Meals: Healthy Eating

ƒ Monitoring, Motion and Problem Solving

ƒ Reducing Risks and Healthy Coping

ƒ Taking Medications and Putting it All Together

YRMC’s Diabetes Education program is recognized by the American Diabetes Association (ADA) for Quality Self-Management Education. The program is offered throughout the year in Prescott and Prescott Valley. QCBN

For more information, call 928-771-5794 in Prescott or 928-759-5920 in Prescott Valley or visit our DignityHealth.org/YRMC.

Bridget O’Gara is a writer, communications strategist and project manager who specializes in healthcare. Bridget has spent her career writing about healthcare topics. She works with mission-driven healthcare organizations, including hospitals, other healthcare providers and advocacy organizations.

Prescott Homeowners Gained Wealth from Home Appreciation

By Suzanne Westrum

New data from the National Association of Realtors reveals that homeowners in Prescott accumulated more than $200,000 in wealth as their homes appreciated through the last 10 years, banking $60,000 more than the national average in that same category. The data, which was featured promi-

nently in NAR’s new report, Wealth Gains by Income and Racial/Ethnic Group, speaks to the value agents and realtors bring to consumers when helping buy and sell homes that build generational wealth.

The press release quickly gained national attention from a host of news organizations such as CNN and USA Today for the significance it represents to homeowners in top-performing locations named out of the 200 largest metro areas that comprised the study.

In Prescott, 68% of low-income households (earning no more than 80% of the area’s median income) own their own home, the second highest in the nation. For perspective, the median household income in Prescott is $20,940, while the median home value is $294,010. While three additional metro areas in Arizona made the list, Prescott came out on top for homeownership rates and wealth gains among low-income households. Prescott also topped the list for homeownership rates among upper-income households and ranked second in the nation for the highest share of upper-income households in a three-way tie with

Barnstable Town, Massachusetts, and Beaumont, Texas.

Although black homeowners experienced the smallest wealth gains among any other racial or ethnic group, these owners were able to accumulate more than $115,000 on average in wealth in the last decade. Asian homeowners gained the most wealth in the past decade, followed by Hispanic Americans.

“This analysis shows how homeownership is a catalyst for building wealth for people from all walks of life,” said Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist. “A mortgage is often considered a forced savings account that helps homeowners build a net worth about 40 times higher than that of a renter.”

A robust real estate market is a key component in the advancement of the local economy, the principles of fair housing and the dream of homeownership for every American. Each home sale at the median generates roughly $113,000 in economic impact that ripples throughout the community. Additionally, 90% of realtors identify as small business owners, with the majority being women. QCBN

To view the full press release from NAR: https://www.nar.realtor/newsroom/middle-income- homeowners-gained-morethan-120000-in-wealth-over-the-pastdecade-from-home-appreciation.

Suzanne Westrum is the CEO of the Prescott Area Association of REALTORS (PAAR).

The Prescott Area Association of REALTORS® (PAAR) is the trade association representing almost 2,500 REALTORS® serving the greater Quad Cities area. Established in 1944, PAAR’s mission is to advocate for private property rights, and provide its members with resources to foster their business success. The term REALTOR® is a registered trademark, which identifies real estate professionals who subscribe to a strict code of ethics as members of the National Association of REALTORS®.

About NAR

The National Association of REALTORS® is America’s largest trade association, representing more than 1.5 million members involved in all aspects of the residential and commercial real estate industries. The term REALTOR® is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of REALTORS® and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics.

MUSIC continued from page 12

Camp Colton. “It was available and perfect!”

She expects to fill the camp with 40 participants this year with a mix of locals, Arizonans and musicians from neighboring states. Eleven accomplished instructors will teach guitar, banjo, bass, fiddle, mandolin and singing.

“The camp offers daily immersion courses in many instruments and lots of fun electives, including sound craft, where students can practice performing and expand their knowledge of sound systems,” said Sullivan.

New this year, is an intensive vocal master class with Chris Sanders of The Hard Road Trio. “I’ll be helping people get the most out of their voices and bringing their music forward by singing and playing with the instrument that they like to be accompanied by,” said Sanders, a longtime Las Cruces, New Mexico musician, grounded in classical and choral music. “Every camp is its own community. We get to share this wonderful experience of making music with others in a safe and fun place to grow.”

The evenings, says Sullivan, are magical, with musicians playing, voices harmonizing and talent igniting around the campfire. QCBN

To sign up or for more information, visit https://rootsandbootsmusiccamp.com/ about/

“This analysis shows how homeownership is a catalyst for building wealth for people from all walks of life,” said Lawrence Yun, NAR’s chief economist.

Recognizing the Value of Customer Service

By Teri Drew

As I onboard individuals at the office, one of our first conversations is about the importance of customer service.

I always describe myself as their customer; regardless of their position, I also count them as my customer. In my view, positive work culture and job satisfaction begin and end with mutual respect, and our employees need to know that we as administrators share in that responsibility.

When we demonstrate a positive internal customer service environment, our team easily relates this practice to our many external customers.

I don’t know about you, but I experience declining customer service everywhere I go, from the doctor’s office to the grocery store. My response is to change where and how I do business and where I spend.

Post-pandemic expectations and attitudes have shifted. In the web world, customers want access to us 24/7, and most will focus their time and resources on companies that meet these demands. Now, most of us do not offer 24/7 assistance, but we all have the resources to use the tools we have, namely websites and electronic

or automated services to respond to customers 24/7. A common website sometimes supplies frequently asked questions (FAQ) access, allowing customer access to you or your company. Even better than FAQs are the automated live chat options where the customer can interact directly and receive responses to common questions. Efficient customer service is being able to help someone when they need it.

Customers have high expectations. Recent studies show that in the U.S., 54% of all customers said they have higher expectations than pre-pandemic. Post-pandemic society has shifted to be more flexible. To be competitive, customers need access to goods and services outside of the 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. pre-pandemic scheduling. Recently, my husband called his doctor to schedule an appointment and the scheduler told him she didn’t have time to schedule him. What?

Customer service should be your priority. Customer experience is drawing a lot of attention in the social media arena. If someone has a positive experience in minutes, they transmit that experience through social media and the public responds favorably, and vice versa, a poor experience travels like lightning as

well. Studies show that customer experience is more important than price. Good customer service equals loyal, returning or repurchasing consumers.

When considering politics, don’t get me started, but companies need to know that if you publically display your political affiliation or party support, you may lose customers and/or suppliers.

Think about your customer journey. What restaurants, grocery stores or medical providers do you patronize and why? Then, test your place of business. Are your businesses meeting your expectations?

My office’s general comment or feedback is “I felt welcomed, I felt like I mattered, and my needs were met.” Our federal customer

rating is 98% satisfaction. The Yavapai County Workforce Development Board has embraced Kazien-continuous improvement. Our goal is 100% customer satisfaction, 100% of the time.

QCBN

Teri Drew is the executive director of the Yavapai County Workforce Development Board.

Now is the Time for Estate Planning

By Steven Calabrese

When should one begin to plan their estate? The answer is now. It is never too early in your life or financial journey to plan for a time when you will no longer be in control or around to manage your assets, your estate.

What makes up your estate? “An estate is everything comprising the net worth of an individual, including all land and real estate, possessions, financial securities, cash and other assets that the individual owns or has controlling interest in.”

Net worth is everything you own (assets) minus liabilities (mortgage, credit card debt, car loans, personal loans and student loans).

BEGIN HERE

Take stock. Create an inventory of everything you own: home, car, boat, rare coin collection, jewelry and anything else that has either sentimental value or monetary value.

List them out and then decide to whom you want to leave these items. It can be anyone you want. No law or rule is required for you to follow. This is your decision and yours alone.

With your inventory in hand, we can now begin to protect your assets after you have moved on.

BENEFICIARIES

For most, naming beneficiaries is the most important strategy one can employ to ensure a transition to the people you want to leave assets. Name primary and secondary beneficiaries. Doing this will allow these assets to pass outside of any will.

One should name primary and secondary beneficiaries for bank accounts, retirement accounts, life insurance and any other assets that can transfer ownership by naming beneficiaries upon your death.

This is important because it keeps these assets out of your will and will not have to pass through probate when you pass on. These assets

will pass directly to those you have named.

This can be a time-consuming task, as it will take time to accomplish and may require original documents, often notarized. Once you have accomplished this, make sure you keep records of your accounts along with the beneficiaries. You will want to keep this in a safe place with all your other important papers.

Consider naming a power of attorney. Doing this will allow someone to step in your shoes should you become unable to perform certain everyday functions. Be certain this is someone you can trust, as once they have the power of attorney, you have given them permission to conduct business on your behalf.

WHO NEEDS A WILL?

Everyone does. Currently, about 85% of Americans do not have a will. This can cause a mountain of issues for those you leave behind. A will decides who will get what assets that have not had a designated beneficiary assigned.

When you create your will, being very specific creates a level of clarity for those who survive you. Let everyone know that the rare coin collection goes to John and Mary gets the jewelry.

Another critical aspect is if you have minor children. This is where you provide for them should you and your spouse meet your demise. Here are things to consider: Who will take

Why it is Important to Include Security, Fire Specialists in Building Plans

By Jon and Jamie Aten

When it comes to building a new home or commercial business, working with All West Fire & Security is essential. They are dedicated to helping you create the most secure and efficient systems that meet all government regulations while still meeting your desired aesthetic. All West Fire & Security specializes in installing fire protection systems, alarms and security surveillance systems—all designed to keep you and your property safe. It is important to connect All West Fire & Security with the architect you are working with, as they have extensive knowledge of fire protection systems and can help ensure that your new build meets all necessary safety regulations. If you don’t plan ahead for your required fire and safety installation, it can cost money and time.

All West Fire & Security also specializes in installing fire sprinklers and

alarms. Fire sprinklers are designed to help mitigate damage by containing and controlling the spread of fires. Fire alarms are also key in providing an early warning system if a fire occurs, allowing occupants to safely evacuate and minimize property loss. All West Fire & Security can provide the necessary products, installation and maintenance required for both systems. For instance, many people don’t know that a residential home requires a fire sprinkler system if it is 5,000 square feet under roof, including livable, garage and entry overhang. Your architect should know this, but you should also be aware.

By working with All West Fire & Security, you can rest assured that the new construction of your home or business is receiving the highest quality fire protection and security services, ensuring that you and your family are safe.

With their expertise in fire safety systems and regulations, All West Fire & Security

will provide you with the peace of mind required when building a new home or commercial business.

When it comes to your safety, and that of your property, remember to plan ahead for what your new build might require. QCBN Jon and Jamie Aten are the owners of All West Fire & Security. All West Fire & Security, a family-owned business, has been keeping Arizonans safe in Prescott for nearly 30 years. They’ve designed and installed thousands of fire protection and security systems for industrial, commercial, residential, and special hazard clients. They work closely with architects and contractors to ensure your new construction or remodeling project meets all safety code requirements. All West Fire & Security are experts in smart home automation, state-of-the-art fire suppression systems, inspections, sprinklers, fire alarms, fire extinguishers, monitoring, intrusion alarms, security cameras, badge access systems, backflow certifications and more.

care of the kids? What will happen to provide for them financially? Include anything else you may be concerned about; for example, paying for college or perhaps a car.

Most common is to create a trust. Assuming you have provided for them via life insurance, you could have all the proceeds go into a trust, which will support their future financially. In addition, you will want to appoint a guardian. As part of the plan, make sure you discuss this with those you appoint to fulfill this responsibility. It is recommended that the guardian and trustee be different people.

An executor also will be needed. An executor is simply the individual you appoint to carry out your wishes. This can be anyone you want, such as a relative, an attorney or an accountant.

Every state is different, and a will must be in accordance with the laws of the state in which you reside. So, if you relocate from New York to Florida, your will in New York is no longer valid; you will need a will based on the laws of Florida.

Finally, some may want to consider putting all their assets into a trust. This should be reserved for those individuals with a high net worth. A trust can be more of a hassle than a benefit. If you put all your assets in a trust, you will likely need to get permission from the

SCHOOL continued from page 28

trustee to sell, move, or whatever else you may want to do. For example, if you put your house in a trust, you will need permission to sell it. Certainly, this is not a reason not to create a trust, but it may not be the best course for you.

FINAL THOUGHTS

If you do nothing, then the state gets to decide how your assets are divided after you pass on. If you love your loved ones, these simple strategies will make things clear. I, for one, would not trust the state to divide up my assets, let alone my kids.

There may be other strategies you want to explore, but for most folks, these are the basic essentials one should put in place. There may be tax issues to consider, depending upon the value of your estate. Seek expert advice.

Good luck, as many have issues coming to the realization that you are not going to be around forever. You work hard for your money –make sure it stays your money! Thanks for reading, hope you found this helpful. QCBN

Steven Calabrese, CPA is the CFO of Polara Health. He also is the owner-operator of a website known as thepersonalfinancewizard.com, where such topics as budgeting, investing, paying off debt and goal setting are discussed.

dening and so much more. The Mobilize AZ grant also helped supply equipment like helmets and gardening tools to these programs.

We strive to give every student the opportunity to explore. A lot of students who attend schools in our district do not receive the same enriching experiences that students in other areas with other income levels may have, so we have made it a mission to broaden their experiences.

There is one young girl, for example, who didn’t deeply connect with anything in school until she joined the archery club. Now, she has a sense of excitement and belonging, identifying herself as an archer. She inspired me to think differently. Every day, I’ll walk into a classroom and think to myself, how many of these kids are the next Mozart? Or are Olympic track stars? Or gifted physicists? Unless we give them the opportunity, no one will ever know.

These programs can dually give students a sense of self and support mental health – an important issue to tackle in Yavapai County. The county is beautiful and idyllic, but there is a strong undercurrent of generational issues, ranging from substance abuse to homelessness and poverty. This has had a profound effect on our thinking for the district and the programs and activities we implement.

With the help from partners like Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, we will continue to prioritize the mental health of our students. Because there will always be another young boy who can excel if he just learns self-control or another young girl who can find purpose and fulfillment if she is just given the chance to explore. And you never know, the next Mozart could be in Yavapai County, ready to compose an ingenious symphony – we just need to give them the tools, time and opportunity to find out. QCBN

Steve King is superintendent of Cottonwood-Oak Creek School District.

One should name primary and secondary beneficiaries for bank accounts, retirement accounts, life insurance and any other assets that can transfer ownership by naming beneficiaries upon your death.

Creating a Fresh Salad

By Debbie Maranville

Iam inspired to share with you that summer is around the corner. It’s time for the new seasonal harvest of crisp and fresh vegetables as well as warm and long summer days. As a culinary specialist, the time of year creates many adventures that excites the palate. Good, fresh food shared with others.

Salads are a great way to enjoy all the freshness the season brings.

A salad is a dish consisting of mixed, mostly natural ingredients. They are typically served at room temperature or chilled, though some can be served warm. Condiments and salad dressings, which exist in a variety of flavors, are often used to enhance a salad.

Growing up, I have specific memories of my mom preparing my school lunch, which included salads. I oversaw the dressings, which I poured a mixture of Western, Italian and sometimes Green Goddess into a small Tupperware container. Sitting in the

multi-purpose room, I would pour my dressing over the salad and my friends and I would enjoy the conversations of our day as we enjoyed our lunch.

Recently, I was reflecting with one of my team members, Carri, for a menu item that was fresh, vegan and glute- free that required some protein for a client retreat we are catering.

Carri’s go-to dish is a quinoa salad. The ingredients are fresh, crisp, full of flavor and overall healthy. This salad can be made ahead of time and refrigerated. Please enjoy the recipe.

QCBN

Quinoa Tabbouleh Salad

ƒ 2 Cups Quinoa – any variety or color

ƒ 8 tablespoons of Olive Oil (6 are to be reserved for the dressing)

ƒ 2 Cups of Water or Vegetable Stock

ƒ 1 teaspoon of salt

ƒ 1 Cup of Chopped Mint

ƒ 1 Cup of Chopped Parsley (Note – you can use cilantro or basil if that is in the fridge)

ƒ 2 cups sliced tomatoes

ƒ 12 Green onions – sliced very thin

ƒ 2 cups of dices cucumbers scored

ƒ 4-6 tablespoons of Lemon Juice

ƒ 2 Teaspoons of minced or granulated garlic

ƒ 1 teaspoon of black pepper

ƒ 1-2 teaspoons of salt (this is to your taste) You can substitute Gluten Free Tamari also – Yum!

ƒ Using a medium sized stock pot heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the quinoa and cook for a few minutes. Stirring is necessary for you want the quinoa to have a fresh and toasty fragrance. Next, add your veggie stock or water and 1 teaspoon of the salt and stir. Cover and let simmer for approx. 20-25 minutes.

ƒ Now is the fun part. Cut and dice your fresh ingredients while quinoa is cooking. Add them to a large bowl.

ƒ When the quinoa has finished cooking, remove the lid and allow your quinoa to rest for 5 minutes. Then fluff and stir with a fork. Transfer to a baking dish or bowl to cool.

ƒ Whisk together the lemon juice, salt, pepper and olive oil.

ƒ When the quinoa has cooled mix everything together in your large bowl.

ONLIFE continued from page 14 sobriety goals.

The roots of the Onlife Foundation story, as well as the Back2Basics and Beyond the Basics stories, are grounded in the longtime friendship of DuPrez and Sean Orlando that began in high school in Scottsdale and continued on to college in Flagstaff.

“We’ve been best friends since we were teens,” DuPrez said. “Sean’s always had an altruistic background; my family, too. We have a background of being of service that’s always bound us together. We both moved up here in 1993 for higher learning at NAU.”

The two were college roommates. “Coming of age together and facing the many social challenges as teens and young adults allowed us to connect around a shared perspective and common purpose regarding life in general,” Orlando said.

DuPrez majored in Latin American studies and Spanish, and earned his master’s degree in academic administration. Orlando majored in Spanish and earned master’s degrees in sustainable communities and oriental medicine.

Between 2000 and 2006, their first collaboration in Flagstaff was the Indigo Movement, which met in the historic El Divino Redentor church on South San Francisco Street in downtown Flagstaff and sought to prevent youth violence and delinquency through

self-empowerment initiatives.

After almost a decade of working together on projects, the two men took separate paths: DuPrez moving into the field of recovery and mental health, eventually starting Back2Basics Outdoor Adventure Recovery in 2010; Orlando went on to establish his own clinical practice.

The Onlife Foundation is closely allied with the Back2Basics program with a direct line of financial aid and program support to those on the path to sobriety and recovery. “It’s composed of alumni families and community members who have their own professional backgrounds and want to do something to support those trying to get help and hopefully get into treatment,” said DuPrez.

A key member of the Onlife leadership team is co-founder Laura LeVee, who serves as treasurer on the board of directors. She says her son was greatly helped by the Back2Basics program.

“Connor became an alcoholic while in college, and he didn’t get good treatment for many years,” she said. “He tried various inpatient and outpatient solutions, but all were for 90 days or so, at which point, he would quickly relapse. In addition, the short-term centers did not specialize in mental health issues, which Connor desperately needed. Indeed, most addicts really need mental health support in order to

sustain sobriety.”

Connor completed the Back2Basics program last summer and has returned to school to finish his undergraduate degree. He now works full-time for a gym in Flagstaff.

“I am enormously grateful to Roy and his program, and I hope that Onlife can send many addicts to Roy’s program, as well as others, that specialize in long-term solutions,” said LeVee.

Currently, Onlife is planning community-based fundraising events, as well as pursuing grant opportunities, in an effort to support more people suffering from addiction and help them maintain sober lives.

HEALING continued from page 16 force.” She offers ways to do this. Here are three:

ƒ Ground yourself through meditation, being in nature or taking an Epsom salt bath;

ƒ Make a list of negative or fearful thoughts. “If they are out of your body, you can begin to address them and release them.”

ƒ Be aware. “Pay attention to how you feel when you are around certain people and places. Avoid the ones that are draining or negative.”

With a calling to help people connect with their intuition, Katie believes paying attention to our own symptoms and understanding where our pain is coming from in a deeper sense is key to holistic health.

What is your body telling you? What colors are you putting out there?

See how Katie diagnoses her paintings and hear more about holistic healing on the video podcast Zonie Living at StarWorldwideNetworks. com/shows/bonnie-stevens. “Healing from Within: A Guidebook to Intuitive Wellness” is available on Amazon. For more information, visit KatieBeecher. com QCBN

Bonnie Stevens is a public relations consultant. She can be reached at bonnie. stevens@gmail. com.

Debbie Maranville is the co-owner of Goods from the Garden, Catering & Events and The Natural Healing Garden.

the project, expected to generate enough power to support nearly 40,000 average-sized homes annually during the next 30 years and bring about $9.5 million in tax revenue to the region. The construction phase will provide a significant economic boost to Coconino County and the state, creating up to 250 construction jobs and stimulating the purchase of regional goods and services from local vendors.

“This wind energy project will generate low-cost, homegrown energy and provide millions of dollars in additional tax revenue to Coconino County over the life of the project,” said JD Rulien, director of development at NextEra Energy Resources.

“We are pleased to work with SRP, Babbitt Ranches and the Arizona State Land Department on Arizona’s newest wind energy center.”

“SRP is proud of the diversity of our resource mix, especially among our growing portfolio of zero-carbon, clean energy resources,” said SRP Resource Planning Director Grant Smedley. “Utility-scale wind power at Babbitt Ranch Energy Center will complement solar resources by providing energy during evening and nighttime hours when solar energy is not available.”

Babbitt Ranches, one of the West’s longest running ranching operations, has been exploring renewable energy

viability in Northern Arizona since 2005, measuring wind speeds and conducting solar power evaluations. In 2010, the land company signed agreements with NextEra, the world’s largest generator of renewable energy from the wind and sun and a world leader in battery storage, to explore locations on the ranch. A decade of environmental studies followed. The project proved to be viable and operational in the timeframe needed to help meet SRP’s growing customer demand by 2024.

The Babbitt Ranch Energy Center

will co-exist with current land uses, including conservation projects, ranching, scientific research and recreation.

“Our relatives believed in a land-use ethic from the beginning, a forged ethic that continues to be at the heart of the Babbitt family and the family business owners’ decisions regarding Babbitt Ranches operations,” said Cordasco, a fourth generation Babbitt.

“We are thrilled to be combining forces with others who share a strong commitment to the land, the environment and the future as we work

together to generate renewable energy for generations to come.”

SRP was the first utility in Arizona to add wind power to its energy resource mix and continues to receive all energy output from the 127-MW Dry Lake Wind Power Project in Northeastern Arizona, the first large-scale wind power facility in the state. QCBN

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Contributing Writers Bonnie Stevens

Stan Bindell

Ray Newton

V. Ronnie Tierney

Betsey Bruner

Contributing Photographers Kay Lyons, Bonnie Stevens, Ray Newton, Sue Marceau, Stacey Wittig, Veronica Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

The 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.

Babbitt Ranches became part of Arizona’s agriculture industry with 860 head of cattle 137 years ago and remains one of the West’s longest-running ranching operations. It began exploring Northern Arizona’s renewable energy viability in 2005. Today, it is the site of diverse and co-existing efforts, including renewable energy generation, landscape-scale conservation, recreation and space exploration, along with ranching. Photo courtesy of Chad de Alva of LightForce Media

“Our relatives believed in a land-use ethic from the beginning, a forged ethic that continues to be at the heart of the Babbitt family and the family business owners’ decisions regarding Babbitt Ranches operations,” said Cordasco, a fourth generation Babbitt. “We are thrilled to be combining forces with others who share a strong commitment to the land, the environment and the future as we work together to generate renewable energy for generations to come.”

HILTON continued from

each customer.

Hurlbert said people love to come to Prescott because of its small-town charm and pioneering history. On the hotel campus is The Event Center at Sam Hill Warehouse, a historic 4,800-square-foot building, popular for wedding receptions, corporate gatherings and banquets.

Triple Creek Kitchen and Spirit is the main restaurant, which offers American fare, comfort food and regional favorites like burritos. Fresh fruit and salads are also available. “It’s an independent concept restaurant,” she said. “It’s not like any other Hilton restaurant.”

Sam’s Bar at the Hilton Garden Inn overlooks the splash pad. Nachos, wings and small plates are offered there.

Hurlbert was hired to open the property in 2020 as she inspected the 101 rooms and overlooked the hiring, training and marketing aspects of the new hotel. She said all of the staff members live in Prescott, as the company focused on hiring locally.

Hurlbert has worked for Hilton for about 20 years. Her family moved here in the 1970s and she is a graduate of Prescott High School. “Prescott is a great place to be.” QCBN

Former Chino Chamber President Serves Larger Region with Dignity Health

By Stan Bindell, QCBN

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Stewart, who will be working with advertising and marketing, said her first week of orientation went great. “The exciting part is I’ll now be working with people. I was used to working alone at the chamber,” she said.

Stewart said her office has plenty of windows and light. She appreciates the structure that comes with the new job as she works in internal and external communications.

Stewart made the job change to grow in her career. Dignity Health serves the region, which includes the Quad Cities, Maricopa County and Nevada, although her focus will be on the Prescott area.

Stewart says she will remain active in the Prescott Lioness Club. She is also working to establish a Farmer’s Market in Chino Valley this month and has started P & L Events with Patty Lindsey from Glass Goons. “I want to continue the type of events that I worked with at the chamber.”

Reflecting on her time at the chamber, she says her three biggest accomplishments were: establishing a forever home for the chamber in a new building; highlighting businesses through the Elf on the Shelf campaign; and, creating the Jingle Bash and Holiday Market as a holiday arts and crafts show.

“I’m grateful and thankful for the community I served,” she said. QCBN

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champion sponsors, including the town of Chino Valley. Vice Mayor Eric Granillo accepted the recognition for the town. Granillo thanked Stewart for her six years of work with the chamber. He also praised the overall business community.

“This town has some of the best businesses,” he said.

Matt Santos, public information officer for the CV Chamber of Commerce, served as emcee. “There are so many businesses that do so much for our town,” he said, citing scholarships for students as one example.

He urged everyone to shop local and join the chamber.

Jones said the CV United Methodist Church has been a member of the chamber for more than 30 years. CVUMC makes monthly donations to Chino Valley organizations. She highlighted the many good organizations in the community, including Horses with Heart and Yavapai Transit.

Soria with Prescott Roots Landscape received the Business Excellence Award for the company’s commitment to customer service and community involvement. Soria, who was born and raised in Chino Valley, praised his work crew for earning the award. He said the community inspired him to go into business.

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Julia Ammons shares the award for Essence Bar and Kitchen with her grandson, Skyler. Photo by Stan Bindell

Tom Payne and his sister, Wendy McManigal, with Tom’s Print and Sign are well known in the community after being here for 31 years.

“Thank you for your years of commitment. Your work is remembered and appreciated,” Santos said when presenting them with the award.

“You’re known for your years of outstanding work.”

The Hall of Fame Award went to Essence Kitchen and Bar for their spirit of volunteerism in the school district and with people in need and

veterans. “This is a real big honor,” Ammons said as she accepted the honor with her 7-year-old grandson, Skyler, joining her at the podium.

etired Yuma County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director John Courtis has offered to serve as the Chino Valley Area Chamber of Commerce interim volunteer director as Lorette Stewart stepped down from her position as chamber president.“This is an exciting time for the Chino Valley Area Chamber of Commerce and the Chino Valley community as a whole,” said Courtis. “I look forward to talking with town leadership and the business community.”

orette Stewart, who served six years as the chief executive officer of the Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce, has started her new job as communications specialist for Dignity Health in Prescott.In addition to Courtis’ support, Prescott Chamber President and CEO Sheri Heiney has offered to assist in managing membership files, financial analysis, short-term and long-term financial planning, bylaws adherence and board development.

“I want to thank Lorette for her years of service, and I am especially appreciative of her handoff with volumes of pertinent information to help us succeed in the future,” said Chamber Board Chair Max Bledsoe. Courtis says he will be at the chamber office on Tuesdays and Thursdays during business hours and welcomes visits from community members. QCBN

For more information, visit www.chinovalley.org.

CARTER continued from page 21

every single day of my career. In the county, we operate an education service agency and we try to innovate whatever solution the schools need to deliver that service.

PLACES YET TO VISIT

The only state that my wife, Linda and I haven’t been to is Alaska. We would like to take two trips: one, a cross-country trip; the other, Alaska’s Inside Passage. Then, some international travel.

FAVORITE CHARACTER QUALITIES

Integrity, honesty and service. I have a personal belief that it’s hard to get past integrity. If you don’t have integrity,

John Courtis

everything else seems to be tainted to some degree. And I believe in service. My life – teaching, coaching, being an administrator and superintendent – has been about service.

WHAT I LEARNED EARLY ON

4 a.m. You ask anybody who knows me, they know I wake up right at 4 a.m., every day. I never set an alarm. Growing up on a thoroughbred ranch, you had chores: feeding animals, exercising horses and cleaning stalls. And then you’d go to school. After school, after football, basketball and track practice, I got to do it all over again that evening. It does develop a work ethic. QCBN

Sam Hill Warehouse is a turn-of-the-century brick building that was built for the Sam Hill Hardware Company, one of Arizona’s first successful businesses. Today, the space is popular for bridal parties, family reunions and corporate galas. Photo by Kay Lyons

Chamber Experts Supporting Chino Valley