August 2023

INSIDE THE AUGUST 2023 ISSUE: ATHENA Speaker Says ‘Stop Waiting’ p. 3

What to Know

About Computer Scams p. 6

Teens Invest in Hashknife Horses p. 11

SRP to Receive More Renewable Energy from CO Bar Solar

One of the largest solar projects in the U.S. to operate in 2025

Salt River Project (SRP) and Clēnera, an Enlight Company, have announced a power purchase agreement for an additional 394 megawatts (MW) of clean energy at CO Bar Solar outside of Flagstaff. This is the second agreement executed between Clēnera and SRP at the CO Bar Solar complex, and with both

agreements, SRP has now procured nearly 1,000 MW, or 1 gigawatt (GW), of power from the project. Once operational in 2025, CO Bar Solar will offset more than 4 billion pounds of carbon dioxide emissions each year.

“This is not only the largest solar plant in Arizona and one of the largest in the United States, but it will also be

the most significant solar resource in SRP’s energy portfolio,” said Jim Pratt, CEO of SRP. “SRP will be quadrupling the amount of utility-scale solar on our power system in just the next two years, with CO Bar Solar as a key part of this. Nearly half of all energy delivered to SRP customers will come from carbon-free resources by the end of 2025.”

Ham Operator Makes AwardWinning Contact p. 13

Honey Creek Farm Brings

Peace to Williams Judge p. 14

Ill-Prepared Couple Bicycles Across Country p. 15

CO Bar Solar is a 1.2 GW landmark solar and storage complex being developed by Clēnera, a subsidiary of Enlight Renewable Energy. The project, which is expected to be one of the largest in the United States, will occupy up to 2,400 acres on Babbitt Ranches private land in Coconino County. Construction on CO Bar Solar is set to begin in the fourth quarter

Continued

Ranching Descendants Doing the Heavy Lifting to Preserve History

Vibrant Building Solutions saving old homes, keeping material out of landfills

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

The same characteristics that pioneered the West, like rugged determination, a strong work ethic and a can-do attitude, are easy to spot in Arizona ranching family descendants Garrett Denny and Vince Fornara. Denny is a fifth generation Prescottonian, whose family raised cattle at the Fort Rock Ranch in Seligman from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. Fornara is a third generation Arizonan, whose relatives owned dairy farms in the Verde Valley. Today, the men are business partners, making their own mark in Arizona history with their Prescott-based company, Vibrant Building Solutions, which moves entire houses.

Recently, the men were called upon to work

with members of another long-time Arizona ranching family to save a home built around 1920. Helene Babbitt, with her husband, the late Jim Babbitt, owned a historic two-bedroom, one-bath bungalow in downtown Flagstaff. She loved the location, but wanted to build a new home for herself that wouldn’t require a lot of maintenance. She contacted the Townsite Community Land Trust, a nonprofit organization that preserves historic homes and makes them available through its affordable housing program.

Townsite CLT Executive Director Duffie Westheimer was thrilled with the donation, marking the nonprofit’s sixth historic home. She found a lot for the house nearby, but moving the house would require more support. That’s when she called Vibrant Building Solutions.

“That house was built very well,” said Denny. “It has a very strong structure.”

Vibrant Building Solutions owners Garrett Denny and Vince Fornara, with office manager Sarafina Fornara, are thrilled to be able to save old homes and structures and make them available for people to live in, while keeping construction materials out of city landfills. Photo by Kay Lyons

Ex-Cop Urges All to Act Now on the Life They Want

Julie Jones will share motivational message at ATHENA Awards

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

After years of serving as a sheriff’s deputy, police patrol officer and SWAT team member, Julie Jones has given a lot of thought to lives that ended early, dreams that never got started and destinies left unfulfilled. “It was really heart-breaking to deliver death notifications to the loved ones of the deceased,” she told a packed conference room of businesspeople in Phoenix last April. “There are no guarantees in life. There is no promise of tomorrow.”

Despite witnessing life’s tragedies, Jones loved being a cop. Fit, blonde and 6 feet tall, she has a presence that commands attention. In her law enforcement career, she used her athleticism to outrun suspects and her compassion to gain respect. Today, as a productivity and breakthrough coach and award-winning motivational speaker, her toolbelt is loaded with fun, enthusiasm and outrageousness instead of weapons, pepper spray and handcuffs. “I like to bring joy and energy to the room,” she said.

Jones made the career change from cop to coach after the deaths of her mother and grandmother. “I knew I wanted to help people in a different way. My mom died at 59 years old. Thirty days later, my grandmother was gone. Life can change quickly. I don’t want to live with regrets and I don’t want others to do that either.

I teach clients how to break through their fears, live a life without regret and have the courage to be who they are meant to be. My message is: ‘It’s your life, you create it for yourself.’”

Clients and businesses come to Jones for many reasons: to live a more adventurous life, to get out of their own way, to launch a business, level up their skills or streamline their productivity. “I help them figure out where their genius lies, where their frustration lies and why they are struggling to get things done.”

On stage, she empowers those in the audience “to get off the hamster wheel of life.” She often hears people complain about being pulled in too many directions and reminds them that “No,” is a complete sentence.

“Most people have a hard time setting boundaries. I train people to use the ‘Do not disturb’ feature on their phones and stay focused on what they are doing.”

She believes in balance and counterbalance. “Work hard and play hard. And when you’re not working, digitally detox and focus on the people around you.”

As a coach for the last 15 years, Jones says her clients appreciate her creativity and innovative spirit. “I always have a million solutions for any given item and a different way of looking at challenges. I will present solutions, ask my clients to pick one or two and then hold them accountable to their goals.”

The No. 1 reason that prevents people from taking action to change their lives to the ones they want is fear, she says. “Fear paralyzes a lot of people. I think sometimes they are so paralyzed because they don’t want to make a mistake. I don’t know where we got this idea. I tell clients that done is better than perfect. Perfectionism is self-sabotaging. It keeps you safe by never putting yourself out there, but it also keeps you stuck.”

What she loves most is witnessing the growth and excitement in people who make bold moves to change their lives. “One guy was 28 years into a job that he absolutely hated. He read my book, ‘Stop Waiting Start Living,’ while he was recovering from surgery. He told me it inspired him

Continued on page 29

Award-winning speaker, international best-selling author and productivity and breakthrough coach Julie Jones teaches clients how to break through their fears, live a life without regret and have the courage to be who they are meant to be. Courtesy photo

Busy Art Hive in Demand

Artists have filled the studios while others wait for an opening

By Stan Bindell, QCBN

Artists moved in and a long waiting list grew for the 26 studio spaces before the Art Hive Gallery and Studio opened in May. At 203 N. Cortez in downtown Prescott, in a building that once housed an antique mall, artists rent the space for their studios and their artwork is featured throughout the building. Art forms include paintings, photography, montages, mosaics, framing, podcasts, graphics, sewing and sculpture.

Art Hive Director Cloud Oakes, who has a background in art and entrepreneurship, said artists should not work in a vacuum and this setting allows them to collaborate with other artists. “I was looking for a philanthropic endeavor that combined art with the community,” she said. “I seized the opportunity for affordable studio space for working artists.”

While providing an outlet for artists to sell their work, Art Hive also provides space for workshops and events. The main gallery, which features contemporary art, is what the public sees as

they walk in.

“This is teamwork for team players for those who were without studios,” she said. “We have young and old artists. Everybody shows respect for everybody.”

Oakes’ stepfather, Don Thompson, is one artist who uses the space. Thompson, who has taken more than 500,000 photos and photographed with Ansel Adams, calls the Art Hive amazing. “It’s the envy of artists who didn’t get in,” he said. “I love it because I need people, other artists, around me. It’s a great working environment.”

Thompson, 74, has been taking photos for 66 years and loves capturing photos of nature and faces. Although he is a doctor and scientist, his photography has taken to him to many countries, including Ecuador and Nepal. He recently moved to Prescott from Montana to be closer to his daughter.

“I love that I can go in to talk to other artists,” he said. “We have the mentality that we want to create with other people.” QCBN

Art Hive Gallery is open from noon to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturdays. Artists have access to their studios at any time and can schedule visitors by appointment.

Artist Don Thompson features his artwork at the Art Hive Gallery and Studio created by Cloud Oakes.

Photo by Stan Bindell

Computer Scammers Continue to Rob Users

Local computer tech explains how to avoid being a victim

By Stan Bindell, QCBN

Computer scams continue to cause chaos and cost money. Idea Karma owner Robert Moses says he has seen a large influx of computer virus scams over the last few months. The most prevalent is a computer advertisement swindle, costing Chino Valley residents more than $60,000 in a two-week period.

In this scam, computer users won’t know it’s an advertisement because it takes over their entire screen stating: “Warning, Warning, Warning.” The advertisement tells the computer user that the computer has been infected and they need to a call a certain number to have their system cleaned out.

Then, they are rerouted to a call center where someone tells them they need remote access to the computer. Once they gain access, they put Ransomware on the computer, making all the files unusable. Then, they ask the computer user to pay $1,000 so they can use the files. After the computer owner pays, the thieves ask for more money.

Some of these computer scammers tell computer users that they need to pay $500 per year, but once they get their credit card, they start charging them $499 per month until the customer cuts them off.

Once a scammer gains computer access, they can obtain the computer user’s Social Security Number to steal their identity or get into their banking accounts if they are online.

Moses said he has been contacted by at least 10 people a month for several months who have suffered from these scams.

“The key to all this is: do not call the number on the computer,” he said. “Go to a trusted advisor or go to a local computer professional where you can take your computer in.”

Moses said there is nothing banks can do if the customer willingly gave out their bank account number to the scammer. However, if the transaction was done through a credit card, the banks have some recourse through their fraud department.

“If you know it’s a scam, take your computer to a professional to have it cleaned,” he said, adding that Chase Bank is recommending that customers

take their computers to computer professionals to have them cleaned before they use them again if they have been scammed.

“That’s a good practice because once you’ve been compromised, they will just get access to do it again until the computers have been cleaned.”

Moses said local, state and federal law enforcement officers have been having trouble with the scams because a high number of them cross international lines. He still encourages those scammed to report it to the FBI because it gives the government important data.

“But in a lot of these countries [where scammer call centers exist], the governments are corrupt,” he said.

Moses said the FBI will be starting a new department to address computer scams. Some scammers are local and even the ones from overseas can have their infrastructure damaged once the FBI knows about it.

“I know a couple seniors on fixed incomes who lost their retirement,” he said.

Sometimes, he adds, the scams happen for months or a year because the computer users don’t realize what is going on. The scammers at first will treat people well, but once the customer starts saying no, they start screaming at the customer and make them nervous to the point that they cave in. The scammers will even threaten to prosecute the customers if they stop paying. Of course, they cannot do that.

Moses recommends these steps that computer users should take:

ƒ First, do not keep important documents on the computer.

ƒ Second, do not use password managers on the computer. Instead, write them down. He said one computer manager was compromised three times in the past four months. Thousands of people’s passwords were at stake.

ƒ Third, use safe browsing habits by adding an advertisement blocker. He said this filters out 95% of advertisement scams. Some of these services are free.

He adds that computer users should have anti-virus programs on their computers. “Even safe sites can sometimes have these advertisement scams. I feel bad for the people who have been scammed.” QCBN

Idea Karma owner Robert Moses says the latest scam fools computer users with a warning that the computer has been infected. The notice provides a phone number to call. “Do not call the number,” he says. Photo by Stan Bindell

Woman Business QCBN of the Month

Jeenah Park Gets College-Bound Students Noticed

By V. Ronnie Tierney, QCBN

This fall, Elizabeth Cervantes Roman will be studying political science on a full-ride scholarship to Dartmouth College. It’s an achievement she claims would not have been possible without the services of Jeenah Park of Evergreen Educational Consulting.

“I was so nervous about the college application process as it’s really stressful, but having someone who is by your side and supporting you is extremely helpful. I know it’s a dramatic thing to say, but Jeenah changed my life,” said Roman, a recent graduated of Flagstaff High School. “Sometimes we need a little bit of help to make us shine and that’s what she did for me. I didn’t think it would be possible for me to be in this blessed situation. I never dreamed that I would be attending an Ivy League college.”

Approaching her fourth season as an independent educational consultant and second season with her business, Evergreen Educational Consulting, Park’s services begin by determining the client’s needs. “I like to schedule a meeting with the student and parent so they can get to know me,” she said. “I then get to know the student as a person, because

there’s more to a student than what transcripts show.”

Her job, she says, is to help students understand who they are so they can figure out what they want to share about themselves to the admissions officers. “I want to know what matters to the students and why, so I ask a lot of questions.”

Though Park helps with essays, she does not write them. “I help them brainstorm ideas for their essays by encouraging them to reflect on their experiences and share something meaningful.”

“It is really helpful to have somebody assist you with figuring out how to describe yourself in a way that colleges will be receptive to you,” said Flagstaff Arts and Leadership Academy (FALA) graduate Otis Koller.

“Jeenah gave me a lot of helpful insight into the process of applying for college efficiently along with a lot of helpful tips on deadlines, the admissions process, and making sure I did everything right and submitted the applications on time.”

Koller will be attending University of the Arts in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania this fall and studying instrumental performance.

Park believes part of her success in helping students comes from her visits to the colleges they want to attend. “By personally visiting the college I get a taste of the intangible things – like the atmosphere, safety, weather and political climate – things that students may not experience by exploring the website or reading published reports. I do a campus tour, speak to the admissions office and even talk to current students about their experience.”

Park was born in Korea and raised in Los Angeles. Her first job was teaching biology to underprivileged students at a South Los Angeles high school. She was 22. “My students weren’t much younger than me. It was the first time I realized how much disparity exists in our world. There was a daycare center across the street from the school. It wasn’t for teachers and staff, but for the teen moms.”

Leaving Los Angeles in 2009, Park set out to obtain her doctorate degree

at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland. “I wanted to pursue my education, so I headed to the East Coast to study human genetics.”

She met her husband, Eben, the first year in graduate school. “He was a medical student and today is a doctor at the Whiteriver Indian Hospital.”

Her bachelor’s degree is in molecular, cell and developmental biology. Her master’s is in education.

“I think it’s wonderful to live a life where you get to choose where you live, work and do the things you enjoy while having financial stability,” said Park. “My work at Evergreen Educational Consulting helps students understand that the ultimate goal isn’t just acceptance into college, but success in college and beyond.”

“Jeenah advised us on affordable colleges that provide merit-based

scholarships and a school that offers a Japanese program,” said Allison White of Camp Verde, who has home-schooled her children. “I think she is a gem for Northern Arizona as finding someone with her expertise can be difficult. Plus, she is very kind and thoughtful.”

When she’s not helping students and parents, Park is gardening, watching her three children enjoy strawberries and raspberries from their backyard, and traveling. “We love discovering hole-in-the-wall restaurants, independent ice cream shops and French bakeries.” QCBN

For more about Evergreen Educational Consulting visit www.evergreeneducationalconsulting.com or contact Park at jeenah. evergreen@gmail.com.

Evergreen Educational Consulting founder Jeenah Park helps students demonstrate who they are beyond their transcripts.

Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

Park meets with Flagstaff High School graduate Elizabeth Cervantes Roman and Flagstaff Arts and Leadership graduate Otis Koller. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses

Photography

Customers Follow their Nose to GG’s Unique Boutique

Dancing for the Stars Lands YC Big Stage

Community leaders plan to dance their hearts out for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona this month. The region’s premier dance competition, Dancing for the Stars, pairs professional dance choreographers with local community leaders for a star-studded performance on Aug. 25 and 26, as the dance goes on in the Jim & Linda Lee Performing Arts Center at Yavapai College.

GG’s Unique Boutique, known as the Smell Good Store, has moved and changed its hours. The new location, 100 N. Summit St. in Prescott, will serve customers from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesdays and by appointment by calling 951-818-5424. Customers can smell the aromas as soon as they enter the store. GG’s sells Mia Bella candles, which are all-natural palm wax candles. Candles have all-cotton wicks that contain no carcinogens. Owner Gina Wodrich says lavender candles

help those who are suffering with PTSD and COVID symptoms that affect the nose. GG’s also sells diffusers that mix oils and water and help relieve sinus issues. “I have always had a passion for aromatherapy,” she said. “It’s one of the most affordable and fragrant [therapies]. It can bring back memories of childhood or other pleasant memories.” QCBN

Professional choreographer Carie Hughes has a heart for kids and has trained dancers all seven years that the event has occurred. This year, she is paired with Watters Garden Center owner Ken Lain. “This is a lot more fun than originally thought, and all the money raised keeps our Boys & Girls Clubs alive and well for

another year. It doesn’t get better,” said Lain. It started with 11 dance couples and now has more than 60. Support for the event can be given through donations directly to the clubs at DancingForTheStars.net. Donors may also support their favorite celebrity dancers by attending the event. All tickets sold are credited to the local dancers and donated directly to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona. QCBN

Photo by Stan Bindell

Teen Equestrians See Their Future Riding on Hashknife Horses

Young bidders win big at Hashknife Colt Sale auction

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

At 16 years old, Grace Copeland knows what she wants.

A year ago, she started to ride horses and fell in love with everything equestrian, from running barrels to cleaning stalls. Her goal is to have the whole experience of raising and training a horse. So, with $5,000 she earned from jobs like babysitting and dog walking, she arrived at the Babbitt Ranches Annual Hashknife Colt Sale with focused intention.

On that warm second Saturday morning in July at Spider Web Camp north of Flagstaff, the event began with Babbitt Ranches President and General Manager Billy Cordasco welcoming the crowd, interacting about celebrations of the last year and honoring the passing of friends and relatives using the ranch symbol of the “Yellow Rose.”

Then, Ranch Manager Clay Rodgers and Auctioneer Reed Flake stepped

into the corral with a Western yin and yang of sorts. Rodgers, with all the methodical pace and thoughtfulness of a lifelong cowboy, informed a bleacher full of working ranchers, rodeo champions and knowledgeable spectators

about the colts and their bloodlines as they each appeared with the mare. Flake, with all the excitement, humor and panache of a seasoned rodeo announcer, started the bidding and raised the energy in the stands.

In no time, spirited bidders were vying for new colts.

“I saw that filly and said, ‘That’s the one!’” said Grace, a high school girl with fiery determination.

Fearlessly, she entered the bidding

battle with experienced horse buyers for a bay filly. She showed the crowd that she meant business and today, that young horse has a name, Cinnamon, as it gallops toward its new life with Grace.

“I came to Babbitt Ranches because

Continued on page 34

Grace Copeland, 16, saved her money from odd jobs to purchase her first horse at the Babbitt Ranches Annual Hashknife Colt Sale in July. Photo by Kay Lyons

At age 19, Taylor Girvin is a seasoned rodeo competitor. She successfully bid on two colts that will grow up with the other horses on her family’s cattle ranch. Photo by Kay Lyons

Be Irresistibly Newsworthy in Story, Soul, Style

While attending a Phoenix-area Chamber of Commerce mixer, I couldn’t help but notice a woman who was speaking so passionately about her business that she had a crowd of about a dozen women completely entranced. In a tiny restaurant where people milled about smiling politely, pretending to be interested in the latest tax law and plumbing fixtures, she was holding court in a big way.

As a journalist and public relations consultant who is constantly on the lookout for people who have great stories to tell, I drew closer to find out what it was about this woman and her product or service that was so compelling. My curiosity level shot even higher when I felt a spark of familiarity. And that’s when I saw them. On the counter next to her and in her hand were these beautifully polished metal objects. You could tell just by looking at them that they had heft. They were about an inch-and-ahalf long and came to a point. “Jewelry!” I thought. “Beautiful, metallic jewelry. Earrings. Pendants. What a statement they made!”

I had no idea.

And this woman, she was a magnetic force in her own right. I was pulled in closer.

She was saying something like, “These don’t exit. They are designed to tumble and spin and continue to cause damage.”

“Wait. What does this jewelry do?” I was confused.

As I leaned in to hold one of these shiny, weighty things, something like the sound of a hammer on a gun being pulled back clicked for me. These were bullets. Bullets that made a statement. Then another click, as I studied her eyes, her jawline, her voice.

This was JoJo (not her real nickname), a shy girl I knew from grade school. Thrilled with the joy of seeing a childhood friend, I excitedly called out, “JoJo!” – the only name I knew her by.

What followed pierced my heart. Her eyes darted my way in what looked like panic and sheer terror. She froze. My instinct to rush in for an embrace also froze. Her crowd dissipated. It felt like we had entered the vacuum of some weird time warp. I was a threat, someone from her sad past, dredging up memories and pain that she had carefully buried and locked away decades ago.

JoJo had been mercilessly bullied. She was a year or so younger than me. I wasn’t aware of the deep hurt she suffered every day at the bus stop, in the classroom, on the playground. Everywhere. I knew this because she told me. She

explained she didn’t go by “JoJo” anymore. And she told me why. The stabbing pain in my heart dropped to my stomach when I realized what seeing me had done to her, all over again.

We finally embraced. I told her I was proud of her and stepped away so she could recover. And she did. Moments later, a new crowd of women was drawn in, captivated by her knowledge, her confidence, her passion. Before my eyes, JoJo had time-traveled and transformed from a frightened little girl to a powerful, strong woman driven to help other women feel safe. The sleek bullet she held in her exquisitely manicured hand would not just wound or anger a threat; it would eliminate it.

JoJo was passionately speaking to women who never wanted to feel frightened, weak, vulnerable and helpless. And they listened. The message landed and stuck.

When you speak with passion to your target audience, your message is received on a level that hits deep. Like JoJo’s products, it doesn’t exit. It stays with you.

That’s what passionately speaking does. In business, passionately speaking has the power to captivate an audience and to resonate with potential clients and customers. We all have a story to tell. There’s a reason we do what we do. Telling that story and speaking with passion are skills that can be mastered. Sharing that message broadly can impact the world.

This month, I am hosting a unique immersive media relations retreat in Sedona for women. Participants will have the rare opportunity to spend time with globally powerful, successful mentors such as the first newswoman inducted into the Arizona Broadcasters Hall of Fame, anchorwoman Mary Jo West, FOX 10 Weekend News Co-Anchor Linda Williams, Expression Expert Bobbie Casalino Lewis, journalist, author and storyteller Lisa Schnebly-Heidinger, Peak Potential business coach Colleen Biggs and clinical hypnotherapist Rosemary Powell. QCBN

Find out more about how to receive “Your First-Class Ticket to the News Media World” at MediaRelationsWorkshop.com or contact Bonnie Stevens at bonnie.stevens@gmail. com.

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

Bonnie

Communications from a Family of Hams

Local ham radio operator recognized for his outreach to 340 countries and entities

By Betsey Bruner, QCBN

It was a thrill making contact with volcanic Bouvet Island, says local ham operator Bob Wertz, marking a 47-year quest and the final confirmed contact with all 340 countries and independent entities.

“Very few hams in the world have done this and I only know of eight others in Arizona that have ever contacted all 340 entities,” he said. “This is amazing to me, as there are about 22,000 Hams just in Arizona.”

Bouvet is an island dependency of Norway, located 9,124 miles from Flagstaff between South Africa and South America and closer to the Antarctic. It has been called the most remote island on the planet and is one of the top two locations, along with North Korea, that are the most difficult to contact by ham radio.

Wertz recently was recognized for his achievement. “This is one of the highest operating awards given out by American Radio Relay League,” he said. “Reaching DXCC #340 has not been done by many Hams, so it was quite a thrill and honor for me to have accomplished it.”

It was also a daunting task, with some fantastic experiences associated with the effort.

“One of the most obscure locations I have talked to is Mount Athos in Greece. There are over 2,000 monks living there at a monastery and they only have one Ham operator. His name was Monk Apollo. I thought this might be the most difficult contact to make in my Ham career; however, one evening in November of 2016, I heard him on the air calling CQ (CQ means calling all Hams). He was using Morse Code to call and I answered him. I was very excited when he came back to me with a signal report and we made the contact. It wasn’t long after that I received his confirming QSL card, and then a year or so after that, he passed away.”

Amateur radio is also known as ham radio and amateur radio operators are “hams,” a term originally coined by landline telegraphers

as a derogatory slang word used to refer to amateur operators who they thought had poor skills, as in “ham actor.”

Amateurs adopted the term and began using it to describe themselves and their hobby. There are more than 21,900 ham radio operators in Arizona and more than 700,000 in the United States. Ham radio uses the radio frequency spectrum for purposes of non-commercial exchange of messages, such as wireless experimentation, radiosport contesting, private recreation and emergency communications.

“To get on the air to use ham radio, it can be surprisingly inexpensive,” said Wertz. “You would need a transceiver [radio] and an antenna. Many hams start out with used radios, which can be found for as little as $250. Then you would need an antenna. New hams are shown how to easily build their own wire antennas, which you can hang in a tree or on a fence post, even in their attic. With this type of setup, you can work the world!”

Expensive extras can be added, such as tall towers, antenna tuners, directional antennas, high powered amplifiers and more.

Wertz, who lives on Townsend Winona Road, was born in Waukegan, Illinois, raised in Antioch, Illinois, and then moved to Phoenix in 1965, after he graduated from Eastern Illinois University. He was the owner and operator of Wertz Tire and Auto Service in Flagstaff for 30 years and retired in 2004.

His interest in ham radio began early in his life. “When I was about 10 years old, I found a box of what I thought were postcards in the basement of our home in Antioch,” he remembered. “Some of them were from other countries and addressed to my father. When I asked him about the cards, he told me he had been a ham radio operator, first licensed in 1932, and those cards were called QSL cards, which were used to confirm contacts made with other hams. One particular card I remember seeing was from South America, and that

Bob Wertz, retired owner of Wertz Tire and Auto Service in Flagstaff, received one of the highest ham operating awards after connecting with Bouvet, considered to be the most remote island in the world. Courtesy photo

BY V. RONNIE TIERNEY, QCBN

Williams Judge Takes a Break from Courtroom on Honey Creek Farm

Feeling as comfortable on the bench as he does officiating a wedding at the edge of the Grand Canyon, Williams Justice Court Judge Rob Krombeen says he is living the sweet life, literally, tending to Honey Creek Farm.

“I feel we are living the sweet life because of the fruitful contributions we make toward sustainable farming on our property and the relationships we build with our customers as we improve their quality of life through the products we provide,” he said.

Judge Krombeen and his wife, Sheila, turned their multi-acre property into a business venture nearly two years ago. They raise chickens, cows and pigs and make soaps and honey.

He believes working on the farm is good for him. “I deal with a lot of conflict at the court and I embrace it, but I love seeing and working with my animals and our farm because it’s good for my mental health and physical wellness.”

Krombeen attended a private school in Western Michigan before heading to Prescott to study and work at Yavapai College. He then joined the United States Air Force and was stationed in Germany and Italy, where two of his three children were born. “My son was born in Italy and my daughter was born in Germany. As a young family, living overseas had a deep impact on us.”

Prior to serving as Justice of the Peace for the Williams Precinct of Coconino County, Krombeen worked for the Williams Police Department for 23 years.

“My greatest achievement during those careers was the ability to serve the public and have the opportunity to make a positive difference in people’s lives, particularly those experiencing difficult personal challenges.”

James D’León & Friends

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Continued on page 33

Judge Rob Krombeen believes working on his Honey Creek Farm is good for him. “I deal with a lot of conflict at the court and I embrace it, but I love seeing and working with my animals and our farm because it’s good for my mental health and physical wellness.” Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

‘Spontaneous Revolutions’ has Readers Rooting for Unlikely Athletes

Unusual travel guide makes for fun summer read

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

If you have ever felt intimidated by a physical challenge you weren’t ready for or a daunting goal that didn’t seem possible, you may be happy to meet and cheer on

Liza McQuade and Clark Campbell

These two inexperienced, out-ofshape, middle-aged cyclists prove to be champions anyone can get behind in what may well be this summer’s greatest anything-is-possible-witha-good-attitude read: “Spontaneous Revolutions: Seeing American One Pedal at a Time.”

The likable, everybody’s-favorite-neighbors kind of couple “trained for their cross-country bike ride by eating in dozens of restaurants, pairing the meals with amazing wine and discussing how they were going to get in shape…tomorrow!” writes McQuade. And when it was time for getting those wheels rolling nearly every day for four months, that would

be fine after a hearty breakfast and one more cup of coffee.

As McQuade and her husband are reminded repeatedly throughout the book by steep grades, aggressive drivers, mean teenagers, relentless

grasshoppers, torrential rain, body shamers, painful falls and mechanical disfunctions, they had no business taking on the ambitious goal of riding their bikes from Portland, Oregon to Portland, Maine. As McQuade writes,

they were overweight and also didn’t know how to change a flat tire.

When we told people we were biking across the country, they often assumed we meant on a motorcycle. When they discovered we were on

bicycles, their expressions turned to shock, especially after giving our bodies a once-over.

Motivated by the hope of staying ahead of hailstorms or the promise

Continued

Left: Liza McQuade celebrates the 2,000-mile mark of the more than 3,000-mile journey. Right: “The success of a trip like this, barring accidents or any serious health issues, is determined between your ears,” writes McQuade. “So, I preferred to start a climb without knowing anything. (Sort of like an ostrich, but different.) That way, you take it as it comes, one pedal at a time.” Courtesy photos

Dr. Rhine Discusses Resilience as a Key Characteristic for Women in Leadership

By Lisa Rhine

Women in leadership positions may hold various titles in our organizations and community. The concept of women in leadership acknowledges and addresses the historical underrepresentation of women in positions of influence. It recognizes women’s unique perspectives, skills and contributions to leadership roles and highlights the importance of gender equality and the need for greater representation of women in decision-making positions.

Being a woman in leadership requires a combination of qualities, skills and experiences often shaped by one’s personal and professional journey. In my experience as a senior leader in academe at colleges and universities in a number of states, a key aspect to leadership success is resilience.

Resilience is the ability to adapt, bounce back from setbacks, and maintain a positive mindset and a high level of perseverance and determination in the face of challenges. Resilient women are adaptable,

learn from failure and work to create strong networks of support. They are adaptable to rapidly changing environments. They invite, welcome and embrace new opportunities, circumstances and uncertainty and respond to setbacks with newfound determination.

Resilient leaders learn from failure. They accept failure as a part of life and know that how we respond to it reveals our true level of resilience. Failures are often just redirection and opportunities for growth rather than dead ends. Temporary setbacks that cause us to reflect, extract lessons and learn and grow are actually gifts that build resilience and grit that prepare and armor us for the next challenge.

Resilient leaders also work to build, develop and maintain strong support networks. Surrounding yourself with individuals or groups that offer support, mentoring, guidance and camaraderie is key to working through foreboding challenges. A community of support that can serve to lend a listening ear, validate your experiences and motivate you to continue the leadership journey contributes to one’s overall resilience.

Being a woman in leadership inherently brings with it some responsibilities. Whether we like it or not, women and girls are looking to us as role models. Young women, new to the profession, often seek out women with experience as a mentor.

When I have been asked to serve in the mentor role, I work to offer unique insights into navigating challenging situations by using examples from my own life where I’ve successfully overcome a major obstacle. I encourage mentees to never stop learning and to take on new and different opportunities to further their personal and professional growth and development.

Fostering empowerment and self-belief in other women is the best part of the mentor role. With that can come conversations about challenging stereotypes and bias in the workplace and society. It can be discussions that address issues of self-doubt, unworthiness or imposter syndrome. And while the mentoring process, in and of itself, is gratifying, celebrating milestones and accomplishments and recognizing the mentee’s achievements is the greatest reward.

Resilient leaders adapt and use the strength gained from adversity to navigate through difficult times, learn from failure and see value in connections with other people and networks of support. Women in leadership often find ourselves fostering empowerment and belief in other women because, collectively, we can drive positive change and, together, emerge stronger and more determined on our leadership journey. QCBN

Lisa Rhine, Ph.D., is the president of Yavapai College. Hear from Dr. Rhine about her journey, including challenges, setbacks and successes that led to her leadership role in education. Dr. Rhine will be one of the featured guests in the “Women in Leadership Panel” at the 4th Annual Quad Cities ATHENA Leadership Awards, 3 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 24, at Starting Point. For more information about the event, tickets and nomination forms, visit PrescottAthena.com

Contributions Create Comfortable Environment for Church School

By Stan Bindell, QCBN

Word of Life Assembly of God Church School will have air conditioning and heating, thanks to Balanced Heating and Air Conditioning, Prescott Winsupply, and individual donors.

Balanced Heating and Air Conditioning donated the labor, Prescott Winsupply donated the supplies and individuals contributed more than $20,000 to make this a reality.

David McClellan, owner of Balanced Heating and Air Conditioning in Chino Valley, said this is his way of giving back to the community. “There is no better place to give than a local church and kids,” he said.

Anthony Jackson, with Prescott Winsupply, said he wants to help children learn in a safe, nurturing environment.

Pastor Todd League said the school began last year with kindergarten and first grade. Second and third grades will be added this year. Core subjects will be taught, along with Christian values.

Each class will have a maximum of 12 children. The program is tuition-based but funds are available through the state’s Empowerment Scholarship Account private school funds. Church staff members are available to help parents through the process.

The school is located in a retrofitted building. The church has 20 vacant acres and plans to grow the school each year.

League said the donations are a blessing. “People have been awesome about making this work.” QCBN

Pastor Todd League, Anthony Jackson of Prescott Winsupply and David McClellan of Balanced Heating and Cooling work together to provide a safe environment for kids. Photo by Stan Bindell

Advancing Equity, Fostering Healthy Competition in the Real Estate Market

By M. Faye Humphrey

The housing market plays a crucial role in wealth creation and economic stability. Realtors work in conjunction with the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) to advance equity, promote fair competition and make the dream of homeownership possible.

Realtors possess the knowledge and expertise to guide buyers and sellers through a complex process, ensuring fair treatment and representation for all parties. Realtors help individuals from diverse backgrounds navigate the housing market, providing insights that promote affordable housing and equal opportunity.

One of their greatest tools in providing the best service and representation to their clients lies in broker marketplaces, more commonly known as MLSs. These are centralized hubs that keep buyers, sellers and real estate agents connected with access to every available listing currently for sale so they know their options, which is essential to

fostering healthy competition. When buyers and sellers work with a realtor, they can be confident that they have access to the largest pool of properties for sale in the marketplace.

Not only do MLSs provide access to inventory, but they also deliver widespread advertising, as well as the practice of the listing broker paying the buyer broker’s compensation, which incentivizes participation in these local real estate marketplaces and creates the largest, most accessible and most accurate source of housing information available to consumers.

Having housing information concentrated and accessible in one place in local markets levels the playing field among brokerages, allowing smaller brokerages to compete with larger ones, and provides for unprecedented competition among brokers, including those with different service and pricing models.

Even the ability to find listings for homes online is made possible by virtue of local MLS broker marketplaces. Online home listing sites receive

much of their inventory from these local broker marketplaces. That data exists because of real estate professionals and others’ commitment to cultivating comprehensive housing data reinforced by guidelines that ensure accuracy and transparency so consumers can confidently rely on the information.

Realtors and MLSs strive to work symbiotically to support the housing market; realtors negotiate on behalf of their clients to ensure fair prices and terms, engage in continuing education to stay abreast of important laws and regulations, and provide guidance on pricing strategies and marketing techniques to attract potential buyers. Broker marketplaces complement realtors’ expertise by providing buyers and sellers with a plethora of options. They can choose a realtor who stays up to date with market trends and aligns with their specific needs.

This partnership also advances equity, fosters healthy competition and facilitates the homeowner-

ship process. By providing guidance, expertise and a competitive environment, these elements contribute to a more equitable and transparent housing market. Whether you’re a buyer or seller, leveraging the expertise of real estate professionals and utilizing the MLS can help ensure a smooth and successful property transaction.

QCBN

M. Faye Humphrey is the 2023 president of the Prescott Area Association of Realtors. With more than 20 years of experience, Humphrey is the broker/owner of KMF Real Estate, with offices in Prescott and Scottsdale.

The Prescott Area Association of Realtors (PAAR) is the trade association representing more than 2,000 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.

For more information, contact:

Elissa Portela

Communications Director Prescott Area Association of Realtors Office: 928-445-2663 x 203 Elissa@paar.com www.paar.com

MAYOR’S ADDRESS //

BY PHIL GOODE

Updating Ordinances

During my time as a councilmember and mayor, there have been many instances of antiquated, outdated and sometimes ineffective ordinances that were not consistent with our current times, or the real-world environment. In addition, several judicial decisions and case law have affected some of these ordinances. For that reason, I have been working with the city attorney and his team to identify and update some highly visible ordinances, to meet the test of modern times.

A few of these are related to adult entertainment, or sexually oriented businesses, and the hosting of sexually oriented shows such as cabaret or drag shows. I have heard from many citizens concerned with these types of shows appearing more frequently in Prescott, at a variety of venues and events. Citizens have alleged that children have been brought into these events by adults, but the city does nothing. This is due in part to outdated ordinances that do not address this type of activity specifically. While the banning of such shows is beyond the city’s authority, the city can require licensing of such events, and limit

underage attendance. I have asked the city attorney to bring these updated ordinances to council this fall, for the council and the public to review and comment on.

The other ordinance that needs to be updated, in my opinion, is the city’s camping ordinance. The camping ordinance needs to be updated following 9th Circuit Court opinions that limit bans on camping within city limits. These cases do allow for time, place and manner restrictions, though, and our update is intended to restrict camping in areas near pedestrians, schools and concentrations of people, and to prevent the biggest issues presented in many cities, namely encampments, clustering of a homeless population, and interfering with sidewalks and public rights of way.

These are two examples of outdated ordinances that must be updated to address current-day issues.

Prescott is a very old city, and there are, no doubt, many more ordinances that should be updated to address modern-day issues. We will continue to identify opportunities to update ordinances and codes, and will seek

to establish a policy of enforcement of these codes. My goal is to make sure that the ordinances of the City of Prescott meet the needs of our citizens in these modern times. QCBN

Behavioral Health Company Hiring in Arizona

Behavioral health specialist evolvedMD plans to hire up to 50 new behavioral health professionals to support expanded operations and new locations in Phoenix, Salt Lake City and Albuquerque.

The company, named one of “The Best Places to Work” by the editors of the Business Journal Publications in 2022, is riding a growing wave of momentum after having recently raised $14 million in new investor capital to support its rapidly expanding business in Arizona, Utah, Colorado and beyond. The company also signed exclusive behavioral health support agreements with primary care partners at some of the largest health systems in the West, including Banner Health, HonorHealth, Optum, Granger Medical and Ogden Clinic.

“It’s really the perfect time for mental health therapists to join our growing team,” said evolvedMD Vice President of Clinical Services Sarah Hanchett. “As evolvedMD’s first clinical employee in 2017 and now a member of our executive leadership team, I’ve witnessed firsthand our tremendous growth as well as the pressing need for passionate therapists to deliver high-quality care to patients at their preferred primary care practice where they feel most comfortable.”

The company places licensed behavioral therapists onsite and in person at each of the practices it serves led by the patient’s primary care provider. Its enhanced Psychiatric Collaborative Care Model delivers a comprehensive solution for primary care that provides mental health expertise, psychiatric consultation, ongoing clinical support and case management, insurance support and navigation, business operations support and process communications. QCBN

Phil Goode is the mayor of Prescott.

Serenades and Symphonies to Open Arizona Philharmonic’s Sixth Season

By Henry Flurry

Arizona

Philharmonic (AZ Phil)

welcomes world-renowned conductor Maestro Peter Bay back to the stage to begin its sixth season, which features six compelling performances. Bay will be leading the full orchestra in Serenades and Symphonies on Sept. 10 at the intimate Ruth Street Theater, featuring Beethoven, Dvořák and Martinů.

Beethoven’s Fourth Symphony showcases Beethoven’s mastery of classical form, while hinting at the more daring and innovative Romantic expression that would come to define his later works. Dvořák’s Serenade for Winds, Cello and Bass showcases much of Arizona Philharmonic’s wind section in a colorful work of lyricism and Czech rhythms. Martinů’s lively Sinfonietta La Jolla evokes the spirit of the sun-drenched Californian shores. We are excited to present these diverse and exciting works in the exquisite acoustic environment of the Ruth Street Theater, located on the Prescott High School grounds. Season tickets are on sale through Sept. 10, offering 20%

savings for the full season and 10% savings with Pick 3. Visit AZPhil.org for tickets and information.

The Nov. 19 concert welcomes back the Sonoran Winds Quintet, composed of Arizona Philharmonic’s five principal woodwind players, returning to the stage for another captivating performance. Featuring rich, melodic and lively classical works of Reicha, Muczynski, Rubtsov and Farkas, this concert offers a beautiful variety of colors and rich harmonies presented with both virtuosity and lyricism.

On Dec. 17, experience the wonder and hope of the holidays as Arizona Philharmonic presents We Wish You Christmas, featuring the beautiful vocal stylings of three esteemed Arizona sopranos, accompanied by Arizona Philharmonic chamber musicians. This unique ensemble brings back some favorites of the sold-out 2021 performances and celebrates other Christmas tunes in new settings. No holiday season is complete without the music that excites the senses and warms the heart.

The Jan. 7 concert introduces Pia-

Maestro Peter Bay returns to conduct Arizona Philharmonic’s Serenades and Symphonies, Sept. 10, at the Ruth Street Theater. Courtesy photo

Continued on page 31

Sounds of Summer

By Jeff Lane, Au. D.

As the temperatures increase and the days stretch out, it is clear that summer is upon us. For most, this means spending more time outside, near water or traveling. It also means increased considerations when it comes to caring for hearing aids. Fortunately, hearing aids are built with these considerations in mind.

MOISTURE

Hearing aids are essentially tiny computers. Thus, the internal electrical components are susceptible to damage from moisture. While most hearing aids are not considered to be fully waterproof, they are highly water resistant. In fact, they have an

IP rating of 68. The IP scale refers to an object’s resistance to penetration by solid objects and liquid. The second number refers to liquids, with 8 being the maximum resistance. Thus, most hearing aids are able to hold up well against rain, sweat and humidity. So, for most people, as long as they are being mindful, moisture should not be too much of a concern, even during the summer months.

However, there are special situations. If you live in a humid environment, or in a place where temperatures get especially high (as I experienced growing up in Phoenix), the aids are going to be constantly subjected to moisture in the form of sweat or condensation. Thus, the risk of water sneaking its way inside the casing increases. In these situations,

a dehumidifier is very useful. It wicks out the moisture when the user is not wearing them. Rechargeable hearing aids actually have a dehumidifier built into the charger. You would just need to add the desiccant, which can be found in most stores. For those with regular batteries, a standalone dehumidifier may be purchased. They can be electronic or manual, and are quite affordable.

Now, what about those who want to hit the pool or lake to cool off? Again, most hearing aids are not recommended for these types of activities as they would be submerged. But not being able to hear in these environments isn’t ideal either. Fortunately, for those looking to try hearing aids or upgrade your current set, Phonak has the Audeo Life, which is truly waterproof! You can wear it in all types of moisture, including being submerged up to one and a half feet. Beat the heat while still being connected to the world around you.

TRAVEL

According to estimates, 82% of Americans partook is some form of travel last summer. Hearing aids can help patients enjoy their trip to the fullest. Fortunately, hearing aid

chargers are compact, making for easy transport. Most charger cords are USB cables, meaning they can be plugged into a port if an outlet is not readily available. In some cases, you might not even need to plug in the charger. Phonak, has an external battery, called a power pack, which can be attached to the bottom of the charger case. Oticon has a separate Smart Charger, which is designed specifically for travel. Both of these options allow a patient to charge their hearing aids for a week without the need for an outlet. This can be convenient in situations such as camping, when electricity may not be readily available.

One risk of summer travel is losing a hearing aid. Some manufactures, such as Oticon, have a feature on their app called Find My Hearing Aid. If you were to get home and realize you had misplaced one, you could open the app and it would tell you the general location of where it was left. Note that this is not a universal feature among all manufacturers. Also keep in mind that all hearing aids come with a multiyear warranty. If you lose your hearing aid and are unable to find it, the manufacturer

will replace it one time for a small restocking fee. You will need to contact your audiologist to do so.

FITNESS

Summer is a wonderful time to take evening walks or exercise outdoors. Newer hearing aids are being developed with health and fitness in mind. Some models are able to track step count, while others can even go as far as monitoring your heartrate. Most hearing aids also have Bluetooth built directly into them, allowing you to make calls, or listen to music or podcasts while exercising. And it can all be done in one package, eliminating the need for too many accessories on the body.

As always, your audiologist will be able to guide you toward the model that best suits your needs. QCBN

Dr. 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.

Trinity Hearing Center is located at 1330 N. Rim Dr., Suite B in Flagstaff. For more information, visit the website at TrinityHearing.net.

If you live in a humid environment, or in a place where temperatures get especially high (as I experienced growing up in Phoenix), the aids are going to be constantly subjected to moisture in the form of sweat or condensation. Thus, the risk of water sneaking its way inside the casing increases.

QC pet news Needing a Paw Up

Blackhat takes on daunting task of helping strays on the Navajo Nation

By Betsey Bruner, QCBN

Sydney, Jazmin and Cody, three siblings who are cattle dog mixes, were born to their homeless mom under a storage shed near Navajo Mountain. Today, they are fully vaccinated and dewormed, and being adopted by families.

“A caring person living in Kayenta retrieved them after they were weaned, but could not catch mom to spay her,” said Toby Frost, a Prescott resident who has been passionate about helping homeless animals for more than 20 years.

Frost has been fostering the three puppies. They have joined in at busy mealtimes, along with several other dogs, including three “forever foster” dogs who are unadoptable for various reasons, like Louie Louie, who has seizures and needs medication four times a day.

They are all living on the 40-acre spread in Williamson Valley where Frost lives with her husband, Ray Beckage. In addition, they are caring for four cats and some chickens right now.

Frost estimates she and her husband have fostered about 250 dogs through the years.

“There are so many semi-feral street dogs, my passion is grabbing some of the babies and hoping we can get the mom spayed,” she said. “A lot of the moms are not going to adapt. It’s called trap, neuter, return – a lot of the babies have a wonderful chance of being fitted into a home where they can be a family pet.”

Frost is a volunteer with Blackhat Humane Society, a non-profit that works to improve the quality of life of companion animals on the Navajo Nation. Sharing Frost’s passion for helping homeless animals is Cindy Yurth, the current president of the organization.

Yurth, a resident of Durango, Colorado, has been volunteering with Blackhat since 2005 after a sick, starving puppy showed up on a doorstep in Chinle where she was working.

“We pick up stray, unowned animals that are being fed or cared for by Good Samaritans and get them into foster homes where they are fixed, vaccinated and socialized, then find them permanent homes,” she said.

“We place several hundred animals each year.”

Blackhat started unofficially in 2001 with Tamara Martin, who now runs Good Dog Rez-Q out of St. Johns, and some fellow employees of Sage Hospital in Ganado who became concerned about the number of stray animals in the Navajo Nation.

The organization was incorporated as a non-profit in 2003. This year marks its 20th anniversary. The name “Blackhat” comes from a rock formation in Tse Bonito, New Mexico, where the Double D veterinarian clinic was located.

The non-profit has foster families throughout the Four Corners region, including in Prescott.

Yurth keeps a waiting list of animals

needing foster homes, puts out the weekly foster update email, writes articles for the newsletter, convenes board meetings, acts as the point of contact, and occasionally fosters and transports.

“The Navajo Nation is the only reservation I’m familiar with,” she said. “According to their animal control, there are an estimated 500,000 roaming dogs and cats, which is more than twice the human population. Many of these animals are actually owned, since most Navajos don’t keep their animals confined, but they’re still available to form packs that attack livestock and people and spread disease.”

The average lifespan of a reservation street dog is five years, she added. “They either get hit by a car, beaten up by another animal or succumb to diseases by not being vaccinated,” she said. “In comparison, the lifespan of a dog living in a home is about 10 to 15 years.”

Rusty is one of Blackhat’s success stories. Rusty was pregnant and homeless in Kayenta. She was living on pieces of hamburger given to her by tourists at McDonald’s.

Don and Sharon Stryker, who live and work in that area, regularly toss

out kibble for street dogs and let Frost and others know about needy dogs they see. “They tell us, ‘Here’s some who are in dire straits, and they look like good dogs,’ and they always are,”

Frost said.

Taken in by Lisa Grosso, a Blackhat volunteer in Prescott, Rusty gave birth to eight puppies in Grosso’s birthing room. “Lisa ended up adopting Rusty and every one of the puppies got into a fabulous home,” Front said.

Frost helped start the foster-based organization United Animal Friends. She also started another rescue group known as AARF and has worked with Yavapai Humane Trappers, which has an emphasis on search and rescue.

“All I want to do is foster and nurture the ones who need a paw up,” she said. “Some of these animals come off the Rez and they’re pretty raw.”

Frost says the problem is huge and multi-layered, including incidents of dog packs killing a child or elder. “Stray dogs also carry zoonotic diseases such as tick-borne infections and eyeworm,” she explained. “Just a few weeks ago, the Navajo Nation announced its veterinary clinics will no longer offer small animal care, which

of course will exacerbate the problem. The last tribal veterinarian resigned last year, so there are currently no tribal veterinarians.”

It is daunting to keep up with the demand for low-cost, spay-neuter clinics on the reservation, although at least three non-profits come out to offer such clinics.

“There are animal shelters on the Nation, but the kill rate is so high most people don’t like to take their unwanted pets there, so they just turn them loose,” Yurth said.

Some pet supply stores, such as Petco in Prescott, are helping the non-profits by supplying free food for homeless animals.

Individuals can help by fostering a dog or covering the cost of a spay-neuter surgery.

“It’s about getting the word out so people understand about these 500,000 stray animals across four states that have no place to call home,” Frost said.

The organization is starting a Blackhat network of volunteers in Prescott. For more information, interested parties should visit blackhathumanesociety.org. QCBN

Cattle dog-mix puppies, Sydney, Jazmin and Cody, are ready for adoption. Their mom was homeless when they were born under a storage shed near Navajo Mountain. Photo courtesy of Toby Frost

Pregnant dog, Rusty, scrambled for kibble thrown on the ground by concerned residents in Kayenta. She ended up in a foster home in Prescott and her puppies have been adopted. Photo courtesy of Toby Frost

Time for A Walk (and THE Walk)

By Loree Walden

Don’t feel like going for a walk?

Easy fix: get a dog! I’ve said it many times…I am not a fan of exercise, and it wasn’t really a big part of my life until I adopted Cassidy Roo seven-and-a-half years ago. Now, there’s a minimum of an hour walking per day. I love it and, more importantly, Cassidy Roo loves it too! The Mayo Clinic states we should get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a week, or a combination of moderate and vigorous activity. The guidelines suggest you spread

this exercise out over the course of a week and aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every day. And, by the way, walking does count as “moderate physical activity,” so it’s a win/win for you and your dog!

I know there are people out there who love going to the gym and can’t wait to go every day. I am NOT one of those people, so taking my dog for a walk gets me my daily fitness requirements, bring it on! It doesn’t feel like exercise, it’s more like therapy! Our pets are some of the best therapists out there and it’s amazing

how well they listen. They don’t judge us for anything we tell them, nor do they tell anyone because, with them, a secret stays put. I don’t know what it is but just being out and talking to her while we’re walking makes everything better. The look she gives me is so precious and it’s like she’s saying, “I got ya, Mom, we’re in this together!” It’s also a great bonding time for us and it helps to build her trust, confidence and socialization skills. It’s a chance to get my blood moving before a long day of work and a chance to unwind and decompress after work.

I know there are people out there who love going to the gym and can’t wait to go every day. I am NOT one of those people, so taking my dog for a walk gets me my daily fitness requirements, bring it on! It doesn’t feel like exercise, it’s more like therapy! Our pets are some of the best therapists out there and it’s amazing how well they listen, they don’t judge us for anything we tell them, nor do they tell anyone because, with them, a secret stays put. I don’t know what it is but just being out and talking to her while we’re walking makes everything better.

Northern Arizona is absolutely spectacular. We’re lucky to have so many dog-friendly trails and hikes, the days are longer and while the temperatures are hotter, it’s still a great time to enjoy the great outdoors (just be sure to keep you and your pets safe from the heat)! Speaking of being outdoors and walking, Yavapai Humane Society is gearing up for our Walk for the Animals. We’re honored to again be partnering with Prescott Dog Magazine and their annual Dogtoberfest event for the walk. Save the date… Sunday, Oct. 1, at Watson Lake. The Walk for the Animals will start at 9:30 a.m., prior to Dogtoberfest starting so when you finish your walk you can join in on all the festivities happening at the event. The route will be approximately a mile and a half, so walkers of all skill levels can enjoy it. It will be a day of fun for humans and dogs alike! What better way to get out there with your dog and enjoy nature and a fun day, all while helping support the animals and Yavapai Humane Society. Walk as an individual or form a team. There will be prizes for the highest fundraisers both individually and as a team! Plus, during Dogtoberfest you’ll enjoy

great entertainment, food trucks, vendors to visit, freebies, dogs available for adoption and so much more.

We’re really looking forward to this chance to get out and commune with nature, our dogs and each other while supporting YHS! Grab your phone and call your friends and start getting your teams together or just plan to all walk together! Your registration fee includes an awesome Walk for the Animals t-shirt and more goodies! For more information and to register, please visit yavapaihumane.org or call 928-445-2666 X117. Join the Walk for the Animals and make a difference! QCBN

Loree Walden is the Marketing Director of Yavapai Humane Society.

Exploring Seven Yavapai Medicinal Plants with Herbal Uses

By Ken Lain

Arizona is all grown up and well past its 100th anniversary as a state. Pioneers to the territory needed to be resourceful, work hard and figure out how to work with the land, including its healing powers. Much of this knowledge came from those before and the indigenous people who knew the land well. Without access to pharmacies on the wagon trails, these trailblazers needed to survive on wild plants. Below are the Top 10 medicinal plants used by Yavapai County founders and their use.

1. Agave has thick leaves clustered to resemble a giant artichoke. It is referred to as the “Century Plant” because the plant blooms once every century. The tall flower stalk is high in sugar and the leaves are full of fiber. Flower stalks can be eaten raw or cooked. The base is boiled into a delicious syrup found in grocery stores today. The plant offers antibiotic, antiviral and healthy fungicidal properties.

2. Barrel Cactus is a short-round plant famous for its beauty in the Southwest landscape. Its flowers and fruit are both edible. The fruit lacks needles and can be consumed raw from the plant, seed and all. A TV myth is that water can be extracted from Barrel Cactus for emergencies, which is

untrue. Barrels are very tough and challenging to open. The effort causes the body to use more water than is actually received. When successful, they are known to cause diarrhea, so they are not a good emergency source of water. Carry a bottle.

3. Mahonia is often referred to as Oregon Grape Holly. The bright gold flowers of spring form dark “sweet-tart” berries in mid-summer. The grapes are eaten fresh and made into preserves. The roots are utilized for liver, gastrointestinal and microbial issues.

4. Manzanita is the Spanish word for “small apples” and describes the fruit flavor. However, it is mealy and contains an abundance of seeds. They can be eaten raw, although they are mealy, with lots of seed. The best use is as a Manzanita jelly. Tea made from its leaves was used to cure urinary tract infections.

5. Prickly Pear cactus is easily identified with its flat pads and ovalshaped fruits. The flowers and pads are edible when young and tender. The fruit is ripe when deep red. The best way to eat the fruit is

to scoop out the shell and roast it. Prickly pear has some medicinal properties, as it balances blood sugar. Its pulp and juice soothe the digestive tract, and the inside of the pads heal burns, wounds or inflamed skin when applied topically.

6. Serviceberry Trees are found throughout the ponderosa pines, providing summer berries. The fruit is ripe when turning entirely purple with a sweet, juicy berry. Tea from its leaves is not

drinkable but was used as a wash for bruises, stings and insect bites.

7. Silk Tassel is used as a pain reliever and antispasmodic for cramps. The Mohave and Kawaiisu Indians use it for stomach cramps and diarrhea. Astringent for the digestive tract, it is a remedy for diarrhea or dysentery. It is also used for intestinal or menstrual cramping.

Each is a stunning landscape plant, even without its medicinal uses. They are easy to grow and create a low-maintenance landscape for non-herbalists. Until next issue, I’ll be helping gardeners grow healthy plants 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.

Prescott Food Forest Continues to Grow with Your Support

By John Murphy

An amazing phenomenon is happening at the Prescott Forest @ B Organic Farm in Chino Valley.

Passionate and inquisitive Quad Cities residents are pitching in to help manage and harvest our growing garden beds and greenhouse.

Each Saturday, there’s a garden project party, which brings together families and individuals that enjoy fellowship, food, music and of course, gardening projects that need to be worked on. This combination has proven successful as each week we have between 10 and 15 volunteers picking fruits and veggies, planting new crops and weeding. The indoor greenhouse has cooled air, so we offer both options to participate.

Another milestone was met when we hosted the first Gardeners Of Destiny Kids Boot Camp where Stephane

Leon led a four-day introduction to kids, ages 5-12, and their moms. It was a total success and brought together like-minded moms who know the value of teaching their kids how to grow food. Our goal has always been to teach the next generation this important life skill.

I am proud to announce our next Gardening Course “Autumn Gardening,” including how to plant and care for fall and early winter crops. The class is $99 for eight weeks but we are offering full scholarships (limited) in exchange for 10 hours of volunteer time. This model was very well received in previous courses. Go to prescottfoodforest.com<http:// prescottfoodforest.com for more information or to  register. The classes run from 10 a.m. to noon, Aug. 19 to Sept. 23. These classes have sold out so reserve your spot today. Families are welcome too!

One of the great benefits of this

program is all the fantastic people that want to help and learn more about gardening.

I’d like to give a big shout out to Doug and April Rich for their help and for sharing our mission. Also Nick and Kim Plancich and their daughter, Shelby, for volunteering and sharing our mission with their family and friends. That’s how this has grown, organically (pardon the pun).

We are seeking schools and clubs to work with to expand our greenhouse capacity and to lead a pumpkin-planting project as a fun competition with prizes and awards. If you would like to have your school or organization participate, call or email me directly.

On behalf of our growing team of gardeners, volunteers and students, I want to invite you to join us, too! What are you waiting for? Let’s get growing! QCBN

John Murphy is the executive director of Make 100 Healthy Inc., an Arizona 501 c 3 non-profit. He’s also a Prescott-area realtor

and can be contacted at John.teammurphy@gmail.com or 928-899-1341.

The first Kids Boot Camp, created by Gardeners Of Destiny, was designed to teach kids, ages 5 to 12, how to grow food. Courtesy photo

Understanding Factors Contributing to a Labor Force Downturn

By Teri Drew

In a continuing effort to attract, retain and identify workers for Yavapai County, the Workforce Development Board wanted to share a few updates. As we look back to the record historical benefits received by Americans during the pandemic economic shutdown and beyond, we recall that workers were offered $21 per hour for unemployment, rental assistance, house payment protection, daycare, TANF benefits, etc. While those services and programs were not new, some of the requirements were changed.

Namely, the work requirement was lifted because of the shutdown of many industries during the pandemic. For example, individuals who are receiving unemployment benefits are generally required to actively search for work and meet certain job search requirements to remain eligible for benefits. Claimants must register with the Arizona Department of Economic Security’s (DES) Arizona Job Connection website or visit a local DES Employment Service office to create a job seeker account. Claimants are required to seek suitable employment and report their job

search activities on a weekly basis to maintain benefits. The specific number of job search activities may vary, but complying with the reporting requirements is essential.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) is a federal assistance program that provides temporary financial assistance to low-income families with children. Work search requirements for TANF recipients in Arizona vary but recipients are generally required to participate in employment, job search, job training, education or community service to continue eligibility for benefits.

I am pleased to inform you that the Senate and House recently passed a bill earlier this month reinstating the work search requirement for recipients receiving assistance. This legislative action acknowledges the importance of fostering self-sufficiency and reintegration into the workforce.

Since these work search requirements have been reinstated, we have witnessed a significant increase in the number of individuals actively seeking employment, compared to the previous few years at our NACOG and DES work centers. Currently, the Yavapai

County labor force is averaging 109,373 individuals, which is a rate of 48.8% labor force participation; 81.4% of these individuals are between 35 and 54 years of age. Employment projections continue to increase by 1.9% for the next several years.

The labor force participation can be affected by a range of factors, such as changes in the economy, technological advancements, job availability, education and skills, retirement rates, and personal circumstances. For example, during periods of economic turndown or recession, some workers may experience job loss or choose to leave the workforce because of difficulties in finding employment. Additionally, changes in industries, automation or shifts in market demands can also impact the distribution of the workforce. Arizona has experienced varying employee retention rates across different industries. Employee retention refers to the ability of employers to retain their workforce over a certain period of time. Several factors can influence employee retention rates such as economic conditions, industry-specific dynamics, job satisfaction, compensation and benefits, work-life balance, career growth

Valuing Customer Service in the Fire Protection and Security Business

By Jon and Jamie Aten

With all the talk about artificial intelligence (AI) and the future of business, customer service has become increasingly important in this current era of technology and automation. As more companies move toward using AI to provide customer service, it is critical that a human element remain present as well. In-person customer service provides advantages that are invaluable for businesses and customers alike.

When it comes to fire protection and security companies, having a personal contact is more important than perhaps in any other industry. Direct customer service reinforces an aspect of trust between the security business and consumers; it shows that the company is invested in listening to their customers’ feedback and responding appropriately. It also provides additional emotional trust. If you use AI or any automated security service, do you really know how your system is being monitored

in your home or business? Who is really there to protect you and your assets in a time of need?

While technology has made customer service more accessible and efficient, it is important for businesses to maintain a personal connection to customer service in order to build relationships and ensure customer satisfaction. Ultimately, in-person customer service helps foster strong relationships between businesses and their customers. By providing a contact point for customers to get help and leave feedback, businesses are able to ensure that customer needs are met while strengthening their overall reputation in the market. It is essential for companies to invest in personal customer service if they want to maintain strong relationships with their customers and remain competitive in today’s digital world.

In business, just having a person to answer the phone can be reassuring. Customers don’t have to

opportunities and company culture.

The data demonstrates that Yavapai County has faced a labor force downturn, presenting challenges to our economy and employment prospects. Yavapai County, known for its diverse industries and employment opportunities, has been impacted by several factors contributing to the downturn in the labor force, such as a changing economic landscape in manufacturing, construction and mining. Technological advancements have also played a role in the labor force downturn. Automation and digitalization have transformed how businesses operate, which has led to changes in job requirements and the need for a specifically skilled workforce. Demographic changes, including an aging population and younger individuals migrating to urban centers, have contributed to this downturn. Many industries such as tourism, hospitality and retail, which are vital to the economy, experienced setbacks leading to worker relocation.

Local businesses, community leaders, and government entities in Yavapai County are striving to address the labor

force downturn. Collaborative efforts to attract new industries, diversify the economy and expand workforce development programs are underway.

Yavapai County’s resilience and community spirit will play a vital role in overcoming the current labor force downturn. By supporting local businesses, encouraging entrepreneurship, and investing in the development of a skilled workforce, the county can pave the way toward labor attraction and retention.

While Yavapai County and the nation currently face labor force challenges, there is optimism that federal requirements restoring work searches and strategic planning will help reverse the downturn. By adapting to changing economic conditions, embracing technological advancements, and nurturing a diverse and skilled labor force, Yavapai County can restore a sustainable and thriving workforce. QCBN

Clear Title a ‘Top Company to Work for in Arizona’ Again

go through a series of automated questions and wait in seemingly endless queues. Instead, customers are immediately connected with a friendly staff member who can answer their question or direct them to the appropriate department. We hope this type of “old-fashioned” service never ends, no matter how efficient our lives become. 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. 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.

Capitol Times, Best Companies Group and Best Companies AZ has announced that Clear Title Agency of Arizona has earned a spot on the list of 2023 Top Companies to Work for in Arizona for the 11th consecutive year.

This list is the result of anonymous and comprehensive employee surveys measuring culture, work environment, leadership and employee pride and satisfaction, combined with rigorous evaluations of workplace practices, policies, perks and demographics.

“This year’s Top Companies were selected based on the results of very high favorable employee survey scores, averaging 90% overall survey results and an impressive 92% overall employee engagement. This level of performance for Arizona companies is about three times the national average when compared to Gallup’s recent reporting of U.S. engagement at about one-third favorable,” said Jaime Zepeda of Best Companies Group. “These winners should be very proud of their Top Companies status, for this presents a powerful opportunity to attract and retain the very best talent.”

“This recognition is a direct result of our culture and our relentless pursuit of excellence in all we do to serve our people and our customers,” said Clear Title Agency of Arizona CEO Bart Patterson. “Our people understand that our reputation in the marketplace is a product of their expertise, and we understand how important it is to take care of our people so they can do what they do best, service the customer.”

The “Top Companies” will be honored at a virtual event on Aug. 22. QCBN

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

Meet Chief Building Official Ryan Greene

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

Sandy: Once again Tom, here we are back in print and landing in mailboxes. I, of course, love all the building officials in our Quad Cities area, but wanted to talk with our readers about a trend we have been seeing at the City of Prescott Building Department that I really like.

Tom: That would be the domain of Ryan Greene, City of Prescott chief building official. Let’s bring Ryan in on the conversation.

Sandy: Ryan, welcome to our little corner of the world!

Ryan: Thanks for the invite. I love talking about our building department and the great team of people we have.

Tom: Awesome, let’s get started with some of the typical questions about permits. Most folks want to hear the numbers in the context of year over year. Can you give our readers an update so they will have a sense of what is happening in town?

Ryan: Certainly! Without boring everyone, generally the number of permits issued varies slightly from month to month and with that being said, generally they are keeping pace with last year.

Sandy: Are the residential and commercial permit numbers about the same?

Ryan: Residential and commercial permit numbers are remaining closely consistent with what was issued out in 2022. However, we are experiencing a slight uptick in commercial construction since the beginning of 2023.

Sandy: So, residential is down just a little. Do you have any thoughts on why that is?

Ryan: It appears as though the majority of residential plats are approaching build out. The city has received some new plats that are either recorded or being recorded this year. That leads me to think we will see an uptick in residential next year.

Tom: Have the challenges facing the construction industry over the past few years played a role?

Ryan: I think so. The cost of materials, labor shortages, combined with a bit of economic uncertainty are all contributing to the different permit numbers.

Sandy: I am hearing the same thing, Ryan. I don’t see the cost of materials going down much, moreover, I see the industry and consumers getting used to them. Ryan, you have been at the helm of the building department in Prescott for just over two years now. Plenty of time to have a solid grip on the challenges the department is facing. Would you share those with our readers?

Ryan: Be glad to. Perhaps the most glaring challenge is keeping up with the workload.

Tom: Give us an idea of what that workload is.

Ryan: Well, so far this year, we have issued 844 permits through June, with about 100 of those being new

single-family homes.

Tom: That is roughly 140 permits a month, and the detailed plan reviews that go with that. What staff levels do you have now?

Ryan: We have three plans’ examiners, three field inspectors, and four permit technicians.

Sandy: And you, to pick up the slack! Every time I try to call, you are in the arena of reviewing plans or out in the field looking at challenges. What I really love about you and your team, Ryan, the word “no” is not in your vocabulary – there is always a solution and we so admire that about the City of Prescott development services team.

Ryan: Yeah, well, that’s what we do as a team. Get it done, as I say.

Tom: Holy Smokes! That is averaging over a 11 sets of plans a week per person. I know that a set of plans for health care, especially inpatient, can grow to over a couple hundred sheets per set and that doesn’t include the 500-page tome that are the specifications book. I am impressed!

Sandy: That sounds like a lot of work.

Ryan: Some of the projects we see are complicated and the plans sometimes also get reviewed by other departments and agencies, locally and particularly at the state level. So, yes, these reviews take up a lot of time.

Sandy: You keep a lean staff, that much is for sure.

Ryan: We do. Since the massive layoffs that occurred in this industry back in 2008, across the board agencies are wary about hiring too many people. Seems like a strange conundrum, on the other hand though, it is

I have always found your door to be open and have heard great things from contractors and people about the department’s helpfulness. Several folks have come to me wondering what they should do about a problem they are having. The issues they raise include questions about when they need to get a permit, to the OMG’s where they want to remodel a house they lived in for 10 years and come to find out previous work was not permitted.

hard to find qualified people to fill the positions we do have.

Tom: Walking that fine line is tough. As a businessman, that issue was always one of the most difficult to address effectively.

Ryan: As a government organization, we are no stranger to staffing challenges. When one of our team calls in sick or takes a vacation, we really feel the pinch.

Sandy: What are some of your other challenges?

Ryan: Well, the usual issues we face. Our focus is health and safety. That’s why we exist. The private sector does that as well but has the added challenge of costs and time. Sometimes the two experience a difficult way forward. Our goal is to minimize that difficulty.

Sandy: I have seen that. You have put on several seminars and made yourself available to address concerns before they become difficulties.

Ryan: You help us a lot, Sandy, through the YCCA. The members that attend the informational gatherings usually become the folks we don’t have difficulties with moving forward.

Tom: I like the way you use the phrase, “Moving forward.” So, I will use it to ask one last question. Moving forward, what would you like our readers to know about the building department?

Ryan: Well, we like to think we are changing the cultural vibe of our department. We are really focused on trying to help people move their projects forward. Many people are afraid to come to us with their problems regarding codes and regulations. I want to change that.

Sandy: I have always found your door to be open and have heard great things from contractors and people about the department’s helpfulness. Several folks have come to me wondering what they should do about a problem they are having. The issues they raise include questions about when they need to get a permit, to the OMG’s where they want to remodel a house they lived in for 10 years and come to find out previous work was not permitted.

Tom: That can be scary!

Ryan: I get it. It can be scary. We want to find a way to make people’s goals be realized, not be the agency

that makes more problems for you. If you come to us with any construction issue, our team will work with you to find a solution.

Sandy: I like that! A solution-oriented building department. Ryan this has been informative and refreshing. As always let me know how the Yavapai County Contractors Association can help.

Tom: Our region is growing and there is no doubt about it – the housing market and the construction industry are two strong sectors keeping our economy going.

Sandy: Ryan, you and your team like Tony The Tiger says, “G-R-EA-T!”

Thanks for stopping in to read 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.

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.

How Cleaning Can Help Sell Your Home

By Lucy Leyva

If you’re selling your home, you want to make sure the first impression a prospective buyer has is a good one. Prescott Maid to Order would like to share how they can help you get your Prescott home ready for potential homebuyers.

Putting your home on the market requires a bit more than normal daily or weekly cleaning. You will want to go above and beyond your regular cleaning routine.

WINDOWS

You will want to make sure windows are clean, inside and out. Cleaning the tracks of debris will help windows to open and close easily. Buyers will want to see the curtains or shades open and experience the sunshine in their potential home.

FIXTURES

Ceiling fans and light fixtures tend to accumulate dust that we overlook. Professional home cleaners can address those areas. Potential buyers will associate dust build up with lack of overall home maintenance.

KITCHENS

Kitchens are an extremely important

selling feature! Buyers will be looking inside cupboards and even inside your refrigerator. Organizing drawers and cabinets is a plus. To keep kitchen odors to a minimum, consider preparing meals that avoid foods with heavy smells.

BATHROOMS

Bathrooms need to be spotless! Also,

Celebrating Cilantro

By Debbie Maranville

Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum L) is part of the Apiaceae family, which contains 3,700 species, including carrots, celery and parsley. All parts of the plant are edible, but people most commonly use the fresh leaves and dried seeds in cooking. Cilantro has been a part of global cuisine for hundreds of years.

Did you know that cilantro is a good source of antioxidants? Using cilantro to flavor food may encourage people to use less salt and reduce their sodium intake.

PREPARATION AND USES

Cilantro is a tender herb that has gentle leaves. These are best to add either raw or near the end of the cooking process. This helps them maintain their flavor and texture.

Cilantro is relatively easy to grow and can thrive in small pots on a sunny windowsill, making it a sustainable, flavorful herb. Watters Garden Center in Prescott has cilantro plants that would work perfectly in your home kitchen window.

Including cilantro in a meal is a great way to add flavor to a dish or beverage without adding extra calories, fat or sodium. Yes, that is correct. Beverages include water,

pineapple juice and tomato juice (bloody Mary).

When preparing cilantro, separate the leaves from the stems and only use the leaves. Use a sharp knife or herb shears and cut them gently. Cutting with a dull knife or over chopping them will bruise the herb, and much of the flavor will end up on the cutting board surface.

Cilantro pairs well with many dishes, especially Mexican and Thai meals. It also works well with dishes that contain beans, cheese, eggs and fish. The herb is also great with creamy vegetable dips and as a topping or garnish for soups and salads.

People use cilantro as a flavorful addition to soups, salads, curries and other dishes. In the United States, cilantro refers to the leaves, and coriander refers to the seeds. Its nutritional content may provide a range of health benefits.

PRESERVING CILANTRO

Preserving cilantro in the refrigerator is the simplest way to keep the herbs fresh and it takes only minutes.

The combination of cool temperature and water prevents the leaves from getting soft and discolored too soon.

Avoid storing cilantro on the countertop or in a sealed

consider investing in some fancy towels to add a touch of luxury.

PETS

If you have pets, make sure you pay close attention to litter boxes and other potentially unpleasant smells. Hiring a professional cleaning service to clean beyond the normal routine will add to the appeal of your

HAUL AWAY JUNK

Make sure that after you clean out closets, the yard and the garage, you haul away the junk. Piles of debris take up space and leave a negative impression of

a property.

Curb appeal is an important factor in getting your home sold, as is making sure the interior is clean, tidy and inviting. Maid to Order is here to assist you in getting your home ready for sale. QCBN

container in the fridge to prevent the leaves from wilting and getting soggy.

It’s not a good idea to store cilantro on the kitchen counter because these herbs only last two to four hours at room temperature.

Placing them in the refrigerator keeps them fresh for up to 10 days, and storing cilantro in the freezer prolongs its shelf life up to six months. Cilantro stored in olive oil lasts up to one month in the refrigerator.

I encourage you to experiment with cilantro in your own recipes, as it is a versatile herb that makes a delicious addition to many meals.

Goods from the Garden, Catering & Events uses a wide variety of herbs and spices in our recipes.

Please enjoy the following recipe, Cilantro-Walnut Pesto. Lovely for bread, crackers and lavash. It’s also great with vegetables, seafood and pasta.QCBN

Debbie Maranville is the co-owner and culinary specialist at Goods from the Garden, Catering & Events.

Cilantro-Walnut Pesto

INGREDIENTS

ƒ 1 cup walnut halves

ƒ ½ teaspoon minced or crushed garlic

ƒ 1 cup firmly packed cilantro (leaves and smaller stems)

ƒ Scant 1/2 teaspoon salt

ƒ 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

DIRECTIONS

1. Place the walnuts in a blender or the small bowl of

a food processor and grind to a coarse meal.

2. Add the garlic, cilantro and salt, and continue to run the machine until it becomes a uniform green paste (some light walnut texture is fine).

3. Run the machine while you drizzle in the oil. Transfer to a container with a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate until use.

Prescott home. Prescott Maid to Order can handle all your cleaning needs.

Lucy Leyva is the owner of Prescott Maid to Order.

Helping Children Develop at the Birth to Five Center of Excellence

By Leah May and Leah Webb

Polara Health’s Birth to Five Program is designated as a Center of Excellence. This means we are able to demonstrate:

ƒ Excellent service with high patient satisfaction.

ƒ Proven leadership in the healthcare industry.

ƒ Dedication to preparedness, research and education.

ƒ Focused, evidence-based and outcome-based approach to care.

ƒ Innovative methods for improving quality.

STRONG EMPHASIS ON RELATIONSHIPS.

Polara Health’s Birth to Five Center of Excellence understands that your children develop within a network of relationships and communities. Our highly trained Birth to Five team provides services that are targeted to strengthen these networks from an integrated approach that is developmentally and trauma informed.

Birth to Five programs are essential for supporting children and families during the critical early years of a child’s development. These early years set the foundation upon which all subsequent development happens. Our program encompasses a wide range of services and interventions that aim to promote the well-being and healthy growth of young children. By providing comprehensive support to families, Polara Health’s Birth to Five program plays a crucial role in fostering

optimal child development, enhancing parenting skills and promoting school readiness.

Birth to Five programs recognize the significance of the early years in shaping a child’s overall development. During this period, the brain undergoes rapid growth, and children acquire essential cognitive, social, emotional and physical skills that form the foundation for future learning and success. Our program offers a wellness approach to support a child’s development by addressing various aspects of his/her well-being, including health, nutrition, early education and social-emotional development.

Another critical component of our Birth to Five program is the support offered to families. Our program recognizes that parents are a child’s first and most influential teachers. We provide parents with resources, information and guidance to enhance their parenting skills and promote positive parent-child relationships.

Parenting education programs, classes and support groups offer strategies for nurturing a child’s development, managing behavior and fostering a supportive home environment. By empowering parents, we help in creating a strong foundation for a child’s lifelong well-being.

Additionally, our Birth to Five program fosters social-emotional development, recognizing the importance of emotional well-being in a child’s overall growth. Teaching parents to create opportunities for a child to develop social skills, build relationships

of 2023 and is expected to reach commercial operation in phases throughout 2025.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with SRP again on CO Bar Solar and providing them with reliable, clean energy,” said Gilad Yavetz, CEO of Enlight. “CO Bar represents a strategic project in Arizona, serving as a prime example of our approach to greenfield development that capitalizes on sizable interconnection positions.”

Jason Ellsworth, CEO at Clēnera, added: “We are excited to deliver increased access to affordable, clean renewable energy in Arizona. We look forward to a fruitful longterm relationship with SRP, as we continue to develop additional renewable energy projects in the state.”

Over the course of the CO Bar Solar construction timeline, approximately 550 construction jobs will be created, with many being local. Once complete, SRP will receive enough power from this resource to meet the needs of approximately 180,000 average-size homes.

“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

and regulate their emotions. Through activities such as playgroups, peer interactions and emotional support, a child learns to express feelings, develop empathy and build resilience, which are crucial for his/her social and emotional competence.

It is also important to foster community engagement and collaboration, bringing together families, educators, healthcare providers and community organizations to create a comprehensive support system for the child. By coordinating services and sharing resources, together, we can provide families with a network of support that addresses their diverse needs. Collaboration ensures a seamless transition for children as they move from one stage to another, such as transitioning from early intervention services to preschool.

By offering high-quality early education, health care, parenting support and community engagement, Polara Health’s Birth to Five program contributes to ensuring that children have a strong foundation for future success. Birth to Five programs are crucial for creating a community where all children have the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.

Polara Health’s Birth to Five services include:

ƒ A specialized team of therapists and family involvement specialists with expertise in ages 0-5

ƒ Assessment and screening

ƒ Therapeutic intervention

ƒ Trauma-informed parenting classes

ƒ Child skills groups

ƒ Respite services

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, Arizona Department of Transportation, Arizona State Land Department, Coconino County and everyone involved in the Western CO Bar Legacy Conservation Community for the benefit of future generations.”

SRP officials say the utility has taken significant steps toward decarbonizing its power system while maintaining reliability and affordability. By the end of 2025, SRP expects to have more than 3,000 MW of renewables online. In addition to its renewable resource commitments, SRP has among the largest battery storage investments in the Western U.S., with over 1,100 MW of battery storage projects that will be online by the end of 2024. SRP officials say that with all the utility’s recent strategic resource additions and decisions, SRP is proving to achieve its sustainability goals. More than 75% of SRP’s energy is expected to come from carbon-free resources by the end of 2035. QCBN

Birth to Five programs recognize the significance of the early years in shaping a child’s overall development. During this period, the brain undergoes rapid growth, and children acquire essential cognitive, social, emotional and physical skills that form the foundation for future learning and success. Courtesy photo.

ƒ Home-based family and direct support services

ƒ Therapy

ƒ Assessment and coordination of care with OT/PT/ ST, AZEIP and community resources

ƒ Collaboration with community partners

ƒ Family Involvement Center

ƒ DCS/Court teams

ƒ Healthy Families

ƒ Yavapai County Public Health Nurse

ƒ Kidabilities

For more information about our Children’s Services and the Birth the Five Center of Excellence Program, please go to our website: www.polarahealth.com, call us at 928-445-5211, or reach out to one of us. QCBN

Leah May MS, LCSW, IMH-E is the director of Outpatient Behavioral Health Services. Leah Webb M.Ed, LMSW, IMH-E is the clinical site supervisor of the Children’s Clinic on Cortez St.

to start his own business. After reading the book a second time, his ‘aha moment’ was about living through the filter of joy and happiness.”

Jones is an international bestselling author of six books, has produced her own TV show, “Stop Waiting Start Living,” on the Zondra network and is the host of the Get S#*t Done podcast. She is a certified master practitioner of neuro linguistic programming (NLP), and also certified in mental and emotional release as well as hypnosis. As a Working Genius facilitator, Julie’s primary role is to help individuals and teams discover their working geniuses through a structured process. This process involves exploring different aspects such as natural talents, skills, passions and motivations.

Jones is scheduled to deliver the keynote presentation at the 4th Annual Quad Cities ATHENA Leadership Awards, presented by Quad Cities Business News, 3-5 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 24, at Starting Point in the Prescott Gateway Mall. Nominations are being accepted now for three award categories. In addition to the traditional ATHENA Leadership Award, there will also be the ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award as well as the ATHENA Organizational Leadership Award. QCBN

To submit a nomination and secure tickets to the event, go to www.PrescottAthena.com.

ATHENA continued from page 3

YC Grad Grows from Hesitant Student to Award-Winning Teacher

By Lisa Rhine

In the span of 10 months, Tracy Rogers landed her dream job as clinical coordinator of the Yavapai College Radiology Technology program, was promoted to program director, won the equivalent of the college’s “teacher of the year” award and got married.

Add the fact she’s a mom to 3-yearold Lincoln and is pursuing a master’s degree and you get a sense of the whirlwind that upended (in a good way) Rogers’ life seven years after she graduated from YC’s radiology technology program.

“I always wanted to teach since the day I graduated,” she said, explaining why she sought the clinical coordinator (primary instructor) position after working as a mammographer and managing imaging centers in the Prescott area and the Verde Valley. Rogers fondly recalls her student experience at YC as challenging but manageable because of supportive instructors like Biology Professor Dr. Matt Pearcy, winner of the GIFT Fellowship in Teaching award in 2014, on the strength of the then-student’s nomination.

Rogers also was inspired by former

YC radiology technology program director, Rich Leclair. “He just believed in all of us so much. Even when we couldn’t believe in ourselves, he knew we were going to be fine.”

Rogers channels both Leclair and Pearcy since returning to YC, doggedly lifting up individual “rad tech” students and pushing them to success.

“Everyone at Yavapai College was so supportive and I wanted to give back, because I remember how stressful it was,” she said.

Within months of Rogers’ return to her alma mater as clinical coordinator, the program director departed. Rogers was named interim director and, following a competitive hiring process, won the permanent position. Essentially, she served both as clinical coordinator and program director the entire 2022-2023 academic year, but didn’t miss a beat with radiology students who, impressed by her hard work and compassion, nominated her for the GIFT Teaching award. One student said in her nomination letter:

“I am beyond grateful that I joined the (rad tech) program when I did because having (Rogers) as my instructor, clinical coordinator and director all at once has made a huge impact on my life.”

Rogers was the hands-down winner of the teaching award in 2023, saying in her acceptance speech that she strives to make a difference in her students’ lives and journeys. In a later interview, she said she was honored by the award but had jokingly told her students afterward, “next time just give me a hug.” Rogers’ own college and career journey took some twists and turns early on. As a teenager, she was certified and worked alongside her father as an Emergency Medical Technician and later volunteered in a veterinary clinic, both in her home state of New Jersey.

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She dropped out of college her first time out, finding the very large community college impersonal and difficult to navigate.

After moving to Prescott Valley in 2012, Rogers began exploring college and career options in the field she had always been drawn to – health care. “When I was an EMT I thought broken bones were the most gnarly thing ever. And I really always loved anatomy. The human body is absolutely incredible –the things we’re capable of.”

Rogers contemplated nursing before delving into radiology technology on the advice of her former mother-in-law and after an aunt underwent radiation treatments for cancer. “The girls doing her radiation treatments made her want to keep going back,” she recalled of her aunt’s experience.

Although hesitant to try and fail again in college, Rogers said the admissions and advising staff at YC erased her self-doubt. “They made me feel comfortable that I would be successful at whatever I chose to do.”

Rogers was accepted into YC’s radiology technology program in 2014 and she admittedly struggled early on – even “melting down” two weeks into the program. But with the support of her classmates, whom she still considers “family” today, and her instructors, she dug in, discovered study strategies that worked and graduated with honors.

“This career has changed my life. It has made it so I could end up as a single mom and be OK. It gave me strength in my life and I want that for other people. I want everyone to have that kind of opportunity,” she said.

Besides guiding 12 new radiology technologists to graduation, hiring a new clinical coordinator –fellow 2016 rad tech cohort

member Avery Liggett – and marrying her husband, Allan, Rogers’ whirlwind year has been characterized by a number of student-centered additions to YC’s rad tech program. Working with the Yavapai College Foundation, she secured child-care assistance and emergency funds for current students and established a continuing-education scholarship for program graduates.

Since returning to YC, Rogers also has launched a rad tech student club and honor society and continues to forge strong relationships in a radiology healthcare community that boasts many YC rad tech graduates.

“I’ll never stop trying to work hard for these communities and these students,” Rogers said. “There’s something very exciting and fulfilling about being part of other people’s success.” QCBN

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

In February 2019, Dr. Lisa B. Rhine became the tenth 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 this role with a commitment to advancing 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. To learn more about YC, visit www.yc.edu.

Left: Tracy Rogers is now working toward her master’s degree. Top: Rogers, shown in the front row, stands with classmates in the Yavapai College Radiology Technology program. Courtesy photos

New Horizons in Healing After Surgery

By Anthony Torres, M.D., FACP

The latest medical advance on

the minds of many healthcare providers is not a new treatment, technology or medication. It’s a new way of thinking about how we care for patients undergoing major surgery called Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS).

At Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC), an exceptional team is working hard to bring ERAS to our community. These healthcare providers – physicians, nurses, dietitians, pharmacists, rehabilitation specialists and more – have embraced ERAS because it’s based on the best available science. And, most importantly, it gets great results. Data from a number of large studies show ERAS programs:

ƒ Reduce complications by 50%.

ƒ Shorten hospital stays by 30 to 50%.

ƒ Improve patient satisfaction.

THE ERAS EXPERIENCE FROM THE PATIENT’S PERSPECTIVE ERAS begins as patients are contemplating surgery and continues

through recovery. ERAS protocols – developed by the non-profit ERAS Society – provide a surgery-specific roadmap for every phase of a patient’s surgical journey. Here are a few ways that patients experience ERAS:

ƒ Before surgery – Clinicians help patients prepare physically and mentally for surgery using ERAS strategies that improve nutrition, physical fitness and more. They also share information about the patient’s specific operation and discuss concerns the patient may have.

ƒ During surgery – The surgeon and anesthesiologist work together to reduce the physical stress of the operation on the patient. Fluid management is a good example of ERAS protocols at work in the operating room. Typically, patients receive fluids during surgery to manage their blood pressure. The problem is that too much fluid can lead to excessive water weight, which can

delay recovery. ERAS protocols call for careful fluid management for speedier healing.

ƒ After surgery – ERAS protocols encourage patients to eat and walk sooner following an operation. Research shows that the quicker food is re-introduced, the less need there is for intravenous medications and fluids. Additionally, walking reduces muscle loss, improves respiratory function, and lowers the risk for pneumonia.

As a physician, I’m enthusiastic about ERAS and its potential to promote healing following surgery. It’s an example of how advances in medicine can come in many different forms. QCBN

PHILHARMONIC continued from page 20

nist Anton Nel, an internationally renowned, major-label musician, who joins Maestro Peter Bay and Arizona Philharmonic on stage for Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 9 in E-flat Major, K. 271. The concerto is considered to be one of the first masterpieces of the classical style. Einojuhani Rautavaara’s Divertimento for String Orchestra is a beautiful work reflective of the same Finnish tradition of his predecessor, Sibelius. Gershwin’s gentle Lullaby was a favorite of Gershwin’s social circle. It was only performed at private parties during Gershwin’s lifetime, and it was first publicly performed well after Gershwin’s death. Closing out the performance is Haydn’s Symphony No. 45 in F-sharp Minor, best known as the “Farewell” Symphony.

The Feb. 18 concert showcases an annual audience favorite, local pianist and Steinway Artist James D’León, who joins a trio of Arizona Philharmonic principal string players for another stunning performance. D’León’s curated concert includes Gabriel Fauré’s penultimate work, the Piano Trio in D minor, Op. 120, Arvo Pärt’s deeply contemplative Spiegel im Spiegel for cello and piano, Rebecca Clarke’s expressive and innovative Piano Trio, and Robert Schumann’s charming and romantic Piano Quartet in E-flat major, Op. 47.

To close out the season on March 24, Dr. Joshua Harper and his professional chorus Quartz Ensemble return to Prescott to perform with Arizona Philharmonic. The concert features beautiful and emotional works by a variety of composers spanning well over 300 years: Bach, Mendelssohn, Whitacre, Buxtehude, Rheinberger, Vasks, and Pulitzer Prize winner Caroline Shaw. You will enjoy the precision and elegance of the combined forces of these two esteemed ensembles. QCBN

Arizona Philharmonic (AZ Phil) is beginning its sixth season in 2023-2024 as Prescott’s regional professional orchestra, presenting large and small concerts that engage and inspire listeners. Based in Prescott, AZ Phil draws musicians from across Arizona and is committed to offering transformative music, while nurturing community participation and supporting the needs and growth of the Prescott-area performing arts scene. Recognized in 2021 by the Prescott Chamber of Commerce for Excellence in Arts and Culture, Arizona Philharmonic is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization performing at Prescott High School’s Ruth Street Theater. Ticket information, sponsorship and volunteer opportunities can be found at AZPhil.org and on Facebook.

Henry Flurry is the Arizona Philharmonic executive director.

Anthony Torres, M.D., FACP, is president and CEO of Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center.

HAM continued from page 13

fascinated me. That discussion with my Dad sparked my interest in ham radio.”

Wertz says he comes from a family of hams, as he also had an uncle who was licensed, as well as a brother, a niece and Wertz’ own two grandsons. His own career as a ham operator began after he moved to Flagstaff to run a Goodyear dealership.

“During that year, I noticed that the Flagstaff community schools were offering a class about getting a ham license,” he said. “I enrolled and after taking that class, I got my first, entry level FCC Ham License – and the rest is history,” he said.

After his dad was relicensed in the 1980s, Wertz and his brother and father, all living in different locations, would rendezvous for a Saturday coffee gathering together while they were on their ham radios. “We did this for many years, and I think about that as being such a special to time for all of us,” he said.

Probably his most exciting contact, he says, was the one with Bouvet Island. “The DXpedition had been planned for a year but they had so many problems when arriving there by boat, that it almost did not happen,” he said. “They had very high winds, which caused lots of problems getting equipment to the shore and up a hill to the operating site.”

They were unable to set up two

of the tents and the amplifier didn’t make it to shore. Only one radio was able to get on the air. “That radio was set on a bucket that was turned upside down, and the operator sat on the floor of the tent while making calls,” Wertz said. “Their signal was very, very weak, so I listened and listened for them and finally heard their Morse code signal and gave them a call. Somehow, we made the contact and I believe I was the only one in Northern Arizona that made contact with them.”

Wertz entered this last contact on his master list.

There will be a Flagstaff HAMFEST hosted by Northern Arizona DX Association, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, July 15, at Sinagua Middle School, 3950 E. Butler. The event will have speakers, a swap meet, vendor tables and ham-related items for sale. Exams will be given for ham licenses. Coffee and donuts and a pizza lunch will be available. More than $4,000 in prizes will be announced for attendees. Admission is a $5 donation. The event is sponsored by the Amateur Radio Council of Arizona.QCBN

Wertz points to the prestigious American Radio Relay League award he earned by connecting to all 340 countries and independent entities. Courtesy photo

REVOLUTIONS continued from page 15

of a good meal and a cheap motel or a quiet campsite, the two pushed through self-doubt, sore bodies, unwanted attention and torturous climbs, like the ride up Wyoming’s 9,000-foot Shell Canyon on Day 40.

“The road got so steep we had to stand on our pedals for extra oomph. It felt like we were biking at a 90-degree angle and might tumble backward. Sweat poured off our bodies, dripping on the ground and collecting in little pools on our handlebar bags. After a few miles, a travel bus chugged by, then pulled over ahead of us at a turnout. A group of tourists spilled out on the road. Instead of walking toward the scenic overlook, they aimed their cameras in our direction. One man followed me for an inordinately long time, recording my progress inch by inch. I think we were photographed more on this trip than the rest of our lives combined.”

A communications professional, retired from a long career in TV, radio and film, Liza is a gifted storyteller. She offers readers a fun journey that can be picked up and put down one day at a time – great for a road trip. Many of the adventures are relatable and some are terrifying, like being pulled into the drag of a huge RV on a fast highway or an encounter with the “Killer Cowboy,” on Day 48, near Custer, South Dakota.

“An old cowboy in a beat-up blue

find help and have assisted people who have been evicted from their homes.”

“I’ve worked for Judge Krombeen for the past four years,” said Coconino Superior Court Deputy Court Administrator Shelly Bacon. “He was the first person to reach out and welcome me and even offered to help me find a place to live. I admire his thoughtfulness as well as his ability to be a full-time judge, grandfather, farmer and beekeeper.”

Another one of Judge Krombeen’s holistic approaches is utilizing the spent grain from a local brewery. “Honey Creek Farm has partnered with Grand Canyon Brewing + Distillery to supplement our animals feed with their spent grain. This not only keeps waste out of the landfill but also is a nutritional supplement to the food we provide our livestock.”

In the last 13 years, he has officiated about 200 weddings, several at the Grand Canyon, the courthouse and other venues. “I kept records until last year. I had to quit because it was too much paperwork.”

Judge Krombeen is a graduate of the Verbal Judo Institute and an instructor with Vistelar, teaching verbal defense and influence skills to staff and members of the judiciary. He also serves as a training faculty member with the Arizona Justice of the Peace Association, Arizona Magistrates Association and National Judges Association.

truck drove past, then slowed considerably. We could see him squinting at us, deep wrinkles creating an angry scowl. He studied us in the rearview mirror while driving only 10 feet ahead, his expression frozen in place. I watched the pick-up inch forward, making note of the gun rack in the back window. Several long hunting rifles perched in place, silently warning us to stay away. When the summit came into view, the man pulled over and got out of his truck. Squinting and never cracking a smile, he chewed and spit, chewed and spit, chewed and spit. I winced as the cowboy ducked back out of the cab, but fear turned to relief when we saw two Cokes in his hands.”

By Day 20, a 30-mile day no longer seemed overwhelming. By Day 30, nothing hurt. And every day, life on the road offered something, including interesting characters like Chuckles the Clown, a retired rodeo clown they remained friends with long after the trip; Beige Edna, a woman who blended into her monotone surroundings and had nothing colorful to say; and, Magnet Lady, a “stone-cold crazy” person who latched on to Clark.

“We took a much-needed rest at a café. My attention was immediately drawn to an odd-looking woman I guessed to be fiftyish. A child’s Easter hat sat at an odd angle on her head. Laying eyes on Clark, she zeroed in like a laser beam. Hi-i-i-i…,” she

purred seductively, sashaying toward him. She brought out a big set of magnets, claiming they helped energy flow more efficiently throughout a body. This might have been an interesting discussion, but she got a little too personal with Clark, rubbing magnets up and down his back and trying to drop them in his shoes. “Buy sssssommmmmme,” she said, trying to beguile.”

As McQuade reports, Clark asked her politely to leave him alone. But she continued, more aggressively, rubbing his legs with the magnets. Finally, he stood up and told her to leave him alone.

She let out a shrill, diabolical laugh that echoed off the walls. Her eyes turned icy black, and the energy in the room felt stifling.

Around Day 90, McQuade remarked how comfortable she had become not wearing makeup in public. By Day 97, she noticed how she could zip up her sleeping bag with ease and still have space for rolling over and breathing comfortably. And, on Day 119,

All of a sudden, there it was – the Atlantic Ocean. Not our final destination of Portland, but close. I was speechless, filled with mixed emotions.

Spontaneous Revolutions is a beautifully descriptive and often hilarious account of travel by bicycle through America’s small towns, scenic byways

and historic landmarks. It serves as a powerful reminder that most people are kind, caring and generous. It also lands the message that we should not wait to do something meaningful for ourselves. In the words of a preacher the couple met along the way, “Life is short; never postpone happiness.” A few years after their ride of a lifetime, Campbell died unexpectedly. McQuade compiled her notes into a book to commemorate the summer the two of them shared something truly special, grew closer and felt the strength of their love and support

through every mile.

After reading “Spontaneous Revolutions,” you may find yourself rooting for unlikely athletes, no matter how far away the finish line is and believing what Liza discovered, “Surmounting a challenge is mostly a mind game.”

QCBN

“Spontaneous Revolutions: Seeing America

One Pedal at a Time” is available on Amazon. Hear directly from Liza McQuade on Zonie Living at https://starworldwidenetworks.com/shows/bonnie-stevens

He also is involved with Young Life and the Williams Economic Development Committee. And, he opens his courtroom to school-aged children from all over the region to learn about the criminal justice system.

The Krombeens have three children and eight grandchildren.

GUILTY PLEASURE

Having something like ice cream and dwelling on the moment and not dwelling on the guilt.

MEMORABLE SUNSET

I pay attention to the sunsets. The last memorable one was two months ago. The sky was on fire and stunning in the most beautiful way. I was in my backyard.

FAVORITE MEAL

Sweet and sour chicken on Jasmine rice.

LAST LATE NIGHT

Sheila and I stayed up late three weeks ago to binge watch a series that we enjoyed, Clarkston’s Farm.

It’s about Jeremy Clarkson, a British personality who bought a farm in Central Southwest England. It’s done with humor but has actual take-always for a startup farmer.

BEST ADVICE EVER RECEIVED

The best advice was from my father

who didn’t tell me but showed me that things that are hidden are still worth doing exceptionally well. People do things to get attention; my dad showed me sometimes the things that never get noticed are the things worth doing well. QCBN

Liza and Clark dipped their wheels in the Atlantic Ocean after cycling more than 3,000 miles from Portland, Oregon to Portland, Maine in 122 days without planning, training or carrying a cell phone. Courtesy photo

JUDGE continued from page 14

Using the Grand Canyon as a glorious backdrop, Williams Justice Court Judge Rob Krombeen often officiates weddings here. Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

The judge has officiated more than 200 weddings in the last two years.

Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

COLT SALE continued from page 11

I wanted a good all-around horse for riding trails, roping and barrels. This is definitely my dream,” she said.

Elsewhere in the crowded bleachers, another teenager could see her future prancing across the arena. Taylor Girvin, at age 19, is an accomplished competitor with four years on the Arizona High School Rodeo Association circuit. “I do a little bit of everything, but my main events are breakaway and barrels.”

Last year, she took fifth place in breakaway roping at the Junior World Finals in Las Vegas. This fall, she plans to compete in rodeo as a school sport at Central Arizona College. Eventually, she hopes to lasso the “Pro Rodeo Rookie of the Year” award.

Taylor’s journey includes Babbitt Ranches horses from the Driftwood lineage, which Western Horseman magazine has ranked number five on its list of top 10 ranch horse bloodlines. Driftwood, also known as “Speedy” to ropers, was a legendary rodeo horse born in 1932. Registered with the American Quarter Horse Association, he was inducted into the AQHA Hall of Fame in 2006. Driftwood sired more top rodeo horses than any other horse of his time. His offspring continue to compete on the professional rodeo circuit. Driftwood’s legacy is carried on through the Babbitt Ranches horse breeding program.

“I love their foundation,” said

Taylor. “A lot of horses are locked in the bone and hoof. They are not put together well. But those that come from foundational bloodlines are built to last. They are not going to fall apart when you start competing. My great grandpa used to race Driftwoods. I love those horses. My family has always had some.”

Taylor’s grandfather, Pete Mickelson, owns P&M Trailer Sales. The company has worked with Babbitt Ranches through the years and the family is quite familiar with the Babbitts’ Hashknife horses. The Hashknife brand symbolized the days of the Wild West in American history. It originally belonged to the Aztec Land & Cattle Company, which operated in Northern Arizona from 1984 to 1902. It later became the property of the Babbitt family.

Taylor’s family successfully bid on a filly and a colt last year. This summer, she was on her own in the bidding frenzy. By the end of the auction, she was the owner of two colts with Driftwood genes. One is by the sorrel stallion, Frenchmans Bo Jetz. “I really like that one,” she said. The other was sired by the palomino stallion, Stolin Firewater. “Those are really good barrel horses.”

After a year on Babbitt Ranches, the colts will join the family’s other horses at their MG Ranch in Doney Park. “I was raised on that ranch,” said Taylor. “I probably spend at least five hours a day riding. Horses teach you patience,

hard work and responsibility. I would love to train performance horses that are affordable for people.”

With winning bids ranging from 5,000 to $12,500, 23 colts, all AQHA registered, were sold. “The sale was strong,” said Rodgers. “Bidders were mostly people wanting horses for rodeo-type recreation. They appreciate these horses for their disposition and

athletic ability.”

For Babbitt Ranches, the Annual Hashknife Colt Sale is a decades-old tradition that has never been about selling horses. “It’s about community and relationships,” said Cordasco, who, along with the Babbitt Ranches community, offers the event free to the public every year. “We feel so blessed to have family, friends and associates

come out to the ranch, participate in this Western tradition, see these beautiful horses and enjoy the day together.”

The Colt Sale is over until the second Saturday of July 2024, but for cowgirls like Grace and Taylor with big dreams and new colts, the ride has just begun. QCBN

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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.

Ranch Manager Clay Rodgers of Babbitt Ranches introduced the horses at the Annual Hashknife Colt Sale in July, offering details about their bloodlines and foundation. Photo by Kay Lyons

A HISTORIC MOVE

After months of preparing and securing the house, Denny, Fornara and team members Anthony Collum and Sean Timlick began the slow and precarious journey of moving it, starting at 6 p.m., Wednesday, June 28.

“The size of the house wasn’t very big, but the route was very challenging because of how tight the homes and trees were,” said Denny. “The logistics were a bit challenging. At times we had only six or seven inches of space on either side of the house.”

“The movers were just incredible. These people are so talented,” said Helene Babbitt, who watched with nostalgia as Vibrant Building Solutions carefully drove the century-old home off her lot. “The house was stalled for about an hour when they had to move the wheels underneath by hand in order to change the direction of the rig. They did that twice. They were never worried. It was an incredible feat.”

The historic bungalow was delivered safely to West Birch St., only about a mile away from its original location; however, the move took nearly 10 hours.

HONORING AN OLD HOUSE

Through the years, the home had four owners. Members of three of the families came out to witness the move and share memories made in the old house. Among the small gathering were three generations of Babbitts: Helene, her son Charles, along with his wife, Traleigh, and their four daughters, Britania, 7, Isla, 8, Kalista, 14, and Stella, 17, who was born in the house.

“This meant so much to my grandma [Helene],” said Stella Babbitt, who will be attending Arizona State University this fall, working toward her goal of becoming a high school history teacher. “I’m really close to her and I wanted to support her and watch it go. Every time we had family gatherings at their house across the street someone would say, ‘Stella was born in that house!’ Seeing it go felt

so unnatural but it’s really good that it will be preserved.”

The home was built by Will and Ann Marlar. “Will was a pharmacist, an undertaker and a state senator,” said Westheimer. “He had a funeral parlor, a dance hall and built an auto garage. He built 20 homes in Flagstaff.”

Around 1924, the Marlars sold the house to Frank and Louise Wolf. Their grandchildren, Martha Wolf Jacobson and her brother, Tom, had fond memories of visits there. The two came out for the move and stayed through the night until it was set down in its new neighborhood at nearly 4 a.m., June 29.

“It was really emotional for me,” said Martha. “My brother and I would spend two weeks every summer there for 15 years while we were growing up. I almost cried when the house was being taken off the lot. I know my grandmother just loved being in Flagstaff.”

In 1974, the home was sold to Eleanor Raudebaugh. “I’ll be honest. When I first saw it being lifted up, it was really, really emotional for me. I have so many wonderful childhood memories spending time there with my grandmother. I lived with her in the summers as she got older.” said Terry Gochanour, Eleanor’s granddaughter.

Gochanour and her mother, Mary Lou Raudebaugh Morrow, happened to drive by the house when it was being prepared for relocation. “It was incredibly heart-warming to learn that it was going to be preserved and brought to the neighborhood where my mother grew up,” said Gochanour. “To see that it’s going to be around forever made my heart very, very happy.”

The house was purchased by the Babbitts in 1995.

Currently, the house is sitting a little higher than the other houses around it. “When the foundation is built, it will look like it’s always been there,” said Westheimer, noting that Marlar built at least one other house on West Birch.

MOVING INTO THEIR DESTINY

As a teen in high school, Denny began moving houses with his dad, Gary, in the family business, G.R. Denny and Son Structure Relocators. When the Great Recession hit in 2008, work slowed down in Arizona but the two were needed in Galveston, Texas, to help lift houses that were flooded from Hurricane Ike. They returned to Prescott and new opportunities in 2012.

“Three houses near Prescott High School were going to be torn down,” said Denny. “We found a vacant lot across the street for sale and were able to save two of the houses. That got us started moving houses that were going to be torn down. We’d set them up and rent or sell them.”

When Gary decided to retire, he offered the equipment to Garrett. In 2014, Garrett joined forces with

developer and family friend Vince Fornara to create Vibrant Building Solutions. “My father was definitely into the hard work aspect. He still loves that and my partner, Vince, is the same way.”

“I did all of that development above Willow Lake – Vista del Lago and Vista Verde – with another fellow,” said Fornara. “I ran out of property to sell.”

Fornara went to Prescott High School with Gary Denny. “When I met Garrett, he was young and energetic and I wasn’t ready to quit,” he said. “We do a lot of repurposing of old structures. We’ve moved in the vicinity of 30 structures, four of which were school buildings that we remodeled into homes. It was very satisfying to move the George Phippen cabin and porch slab that now rests next to the Phippen

Museum.” Phippen was a sculptor and painter who worked in the cabin studio he built in Prescott.

Currently, the team is developing 16 apartment units near Fry’s grocery store in Prescott. Vibrant Building Solutions also provides dumpsters for contractors.

A REWARDING MOVE

“What’s most rewarding and also most challenging is moving houses,” said Denny. “You see a house sitting on the ground, you pick it up and move it to a different location, set it down and someone can move into it. The majority of the ones we’ve moved are still in use. It feels very good to save these houses and keep them out of the landfill.” QCBN

Helene Babbitt worked with Vibrant Building Solutions to relocate her historic home in downtown Flagstaff earlier this summer. It’s now managed by Townsite Community Land Trust and will be part of the nonprofit’s affordable housing program. Courtesy photo

Top left: Garrett Denny and Vince Fornara lift entire houses to get them ready for the move. Top right: The business partners currently are renting apartment units they developed near Fry’s in Prescott. Photos by Kay Lyons

Savor our mouthwatering brisket, pulled pork, chicken and ribs smoked on-site, plus homemade BBQ sauces and irresistible sides served daily for lunch or dinner.