October 2024

INSIDE THE OCTOBER 2024 ISSUE:

Meet the Prescott Area’s 2024 ATHENA Marnie Uhl p. 3

Tower Garden Promoting Aeroponics for Healthy Food p. 4

Author Coaches Leaders in BOLD Mission p. 6

Prescott Doctor Marks His One Hundredth Surgery Using a Robot

Dr. Shane Monnett says the da Vinci Robotics System speeds up the surgery and recovery time

By Stan Bindell, QCBN

TAmelia Danoff Crafts Organic Skin-Care Products p. 10

River Runner Supplies White Water Adventures p. 18

Jim’s Trading Post Features Unique Finds p. 20

The robotic surgery method, known as the da Vinci Robotics System, makes the surgery more precise and the recovery faster.

Dr. Monnett said completing 100

he future of medicine has a solid foundation in Prescott. Surgeon Shane Monnett has used a three-armed robot to successfully complete his 100th robotic surgery at Yavapai Regional Medical Center in Prescott.

surgeries of this type would not have been a big deal if only half of them were successful, but so far, he’s had a 100% success rate.

Monnett arrived at YRMC six months ago, but has been specializing in this robotic surgery for 12 years.

“This is space-age medicine. This is one of the trends of the future. We are just catching up with medical

trends outside of Prescott, just like most rural areas. Patients don’t have to go to Phoenix for this anymore,” he said.

YRMC can now do rectal or colon cancer surgeries, which it had not been able to do previously. The robotic method has been so successful that the hospital is booked until January and two new surgeon partners

Continued on page 39

ATHENA Leadership Glistens in the Quad Cities

Marnie Uhl, Mona Stephens, CASA Special Advocates honored for excellence

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

Legendary anchorwoman Mary Jo West, known as “Arizona’s First Lady of TV News in Phoenix,” proclaimed, “There is something in the water in the QUAD CITIES! I want to drink it!” she said, as she addressed the more than 150 attendees as the keynote speaker during the Fifth Annual Prescott-Area ATHENA Leadership Awards, Friday, Sept. 20, at Starting Point in the Pine Ridge Marketplace.

“This part of Arizona produces so many strong, bright and resilient women! The nominees at the ATHENA Awards were standing on the shoulders of ‘sheroes,’” she said, “women like Sharlot Hall, Frances Munds, Viola Jimilla, Patricia Ann McGee, Grace Sparkes and many more – all inducted into the Arizona Women’s Hall of Fame.”

As soft rock, played classically by the

Prescott String Quartet, floated gently on the enthusiasm in the large banquet room, attendees sprang to their feet to usher in the region’s newest ATHENA Leadership Award recipients: Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Marnie Uhl, CASA for Kids Foundation Development Director Mona Stephens and CASA Court Appointed Special Advocates of Yavapai County.

“I am deeply honored to receive the ATHENA Leadership Award, a recognition that reflects my journey and the incredible support and inspiration of those around me,” said Uhl, a retired Los Angeles County deputy sheriff who has led the Prescott Valley Chamber for 19 years with a reputation for bringing positive growth and solidarity to the community. “This award strengthens my commitment to continuing to empower others and fostering leadership in our community.” Read more about Marnie Uhl on page 3.

“To receive the award and to be recognized is surreal and very humbling,” said Stephens, the ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award recipient, who conducts workshops at

Beneath a sign stating, “anything’s possible,” the 2024 ATHENA Leadership Award recipients gathered in the spirit of excellence, mentorship and giving back. CASA Dependency Court Manager Amber Martin, CASA Community Coordinator Quinci Castleberry, Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Marnie Uhl, pioneering television news anchorwoman Mary Jo West, CASA for Kids Foundation Development Director Mona Stephens, Yavapai County Juvenile Court Judge Anna Young and QCBN Editor Bonnie Stevens shared in the celebration. Photo by Kay Lyons

Prescott-Area ATHENA Leadership Award Recipient Marnie Uhl Wants to Make a Difference

the chamber’s Volunteer of the Year.

PBy Heidi Dahms Foster, QCBN

rescott Valley Chamber of Commerce

President and CEO Marnie Uhl’s life philosophy can be summed up in four points: try new things, become excellent at them, have fun, and don’t look back.

Uhl is coming to the end of her 19-year position leading the Prescott Valley Chamber, announcing her retirement for early 2025 to allow the Chamber board to find her successor.

Her father was in the Navy when Uhl was born at Balboa Naval Hospital in San Diego, California. He then joined the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, setting the stage for Uhl’s first career.

After graduating from San Diego High School, Uhl went directly into the workforce, working for an orthopedic surgeon. She soon decided medicine “wasn’t her thing.” Her dad suggested Uhl might consider a career with the Sheriff’s department. Setting a lifelong pattern, she said, “That sounds like fun!” and tested.

After attending the law enforcement academy, Uhl found her career as a deputy suited her and served for 21 years, from 1977 to 1998. “There is a real brotherhood and sisterhood in law enforcement. It was an honorable career and I felt honored to serve.”

She then made a radical change – moving to New Mexico with her young son and marrying a cowboy. With her husband working and her son at school, she took a job at a propane company, stayed a few months and then saw an ad for an assistant at the nearby Springerville-Eager Chamber of Commerce. She had become familiar with chamber work while living in Temple City, California, where her mom had a business and had become involved. Uhl chaired the chamber’s casino night, and served as an ambassador. She soon was recognized as

Uhl interviewed and was hired for the Springerville-Eager Chamber position, and after the former director moved on, she was appointed director. As was her style, she quickly immersed herself in learning everything she could to support the organization, attending conferences and other chamber events. She started a newsletter, hosted mixers and later fostered a regional partnership with other nearby chambers.

In 2005, Uhl saw a job posting for the Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce director. “I was ready to spread my wings. Prescott Valley sounded like a fun, growing community,” she said.

She was offered the job in December 2005, right before her mother was diagnosed with cancer.

She wasn’t sure she should accept, thinking her mother would need her. But her parents encouraged her to take the opportunity. She was on board by Feb. 13, 2006.

The Chamber has weathered ups and downs in Prescott Valley and has supported the business community through it all. When Uhl arrived, the Town had some exciting growth, but then the Great Recession hit the country and Prescott Valley with it. “Working together, we survived. You don’t do it alone!”

She always has had a clear vision for the PV Chamber. “I want the Chamber to lead and grow with the community. I’m most proud of having developed community leaders through involvement in the board of directors. They are amazing people who have grown as part of our board investing in leadership. Accreditation was also a strong investment, and I’m proud of that.”

While in California, Uhl also became involved in community theater. Theater became

Praised for bringing positive growth and solidarity to Prescott Valley, Marnie Uhl, a performer and retired Los Angeles County deputy sheriff, has led the PV Chamber of Commerce for 19 years. Photo by Heidi Dahms Foster

Tower Garden is Bringing Fresh Nutrients Home

Maureen Wild hopes to change the way we eat

By Stan Bindell, QCBN

Tower Garden in Prescott offers customers a vertical aeroponic gardening system where the roots get watered, but don’t sit in water, as air keeps circulating in order to give the roots oxygen. This system is soil free, and research by the University of Mississippi shows that Tower Garden provides nutrient rich produce.

Aeroponics is the process of cultivating plants in an air or mist environment, eliminating the need for soil or an aggregate medium. It falls under the category of hydroponics, as water is employed in aeroponics to deliver nutrients to the plants.

Maureen Wild opened the Tower Garden franchise in Prescott about two years ago. She was working on her book, Changing the Way We Eat, when her editor, Elizabeth Garrett, told her about Tower Garden and she jumped at the chance at another way to get people to see the importance of healthy eating.

“My mission – and their mission – is to inspire people to see the root causes of health problems and put them on a healing journey through

whole food nutrition,” she said.

Wild notes that when people go to the grocery store, they are getting food that is shipped from somewhere else, sometimes other countries or states, and lose nutrients during the shipping process. With Tower Garden, customers can grow produce inside or outside of their home.

Wild said the best part of Tower Garden is that people can have fresh produce right in their house. “It’s exciting to me that people can have healthy fruits and vegetables right there,” she said, noting that the most challenging part of Tower Garden is convincing people that they need to invest in their health.

“We’re ingrained that we need to go to the doctor and get pills when a lot of our health comes down to the food we consume. We’re not thinking that health is out there and that we can control it.”

The basic Tower Garden system is five-and-a-half to six feet tall. It comes in sections, so customers can make it taller or smaller depending on their needs. The company is part of the Juice Plus franchise, which provides plant-based powders in a capsule.

Tower Garden also has a curriculum for teachers and administrators to help them understand the system. Tower Garden is in the Williams School District. “I want to educate people about their health,” said Wild.

Wild volunteers at her church and is active in Summit Sisters Adventures hiking and social group where she also talks about Tower Garden.

She and her husband, Mike, moved to Prescott almost six years ago from Washington state. “We are close to family in Phoenix without having the heat,” she said. “I love that it’s called everybody’s hometown, because it has a little bit of all the places we’ve lived.” QCBN

To order her book or Tower Garden, or for more information, Wild can be reached at WILDinJesus@outlook.com or 360-9294959.

Maureen Wild opened the Tower Garden franchise in Prescott two years ago. “It’s exciting to me that people can have healthy fruits and vegetables right there,” she said Photo by Stan Bindell

Featuring Style and Function, Rick Kimery Opens JRK Architecture Studio

By Stan Bindell, QCBN

Rick Kimery has a longtime habit of picking buildings apart and identifying what wasn’t done correctly or what could have been done better.

While this has become part of family lore, it is his attention to detail that has served him well as he has worked on all types of architectural projects throughout the country.

About three years ago, he opened JRK Architecture Studio in Prescott. He works on both commercial and residential projects, remodels and new builds.

“If somebody wants something, I’ll work on it,” he said, as he tailors his work for each client.

In high school, Kimery liked to work on cabinets. He also became a drafter and worked as an intern for civil and electrical engineers. After studying architecture in San Diego, he found a job in Montana.

In 2012, he started working for a Prescott architectural firm. “I would design something unique – different building types for different jurisdictions. Each city and county is a

bit different and the codes are open to interpretation, but Prescott and Yavapai County are not that much different from other places,” he said.

In 2014, Kimery left to work on bigger projects in Glendale, as he worked on medical facilities for Banner Health and the Mayo Clinic. After that, he worked on a 550-apartment complex with buildings that were four to six stories.

After those projects, Kimery and wife, Sue, went on the road in an RV for three years as they worked as far east as Tennessee. They eventually ended up in San Diego, where he worked on high-end residential projects. However, in 2022, they returned to Prescott in 2022 and opened their own firm.

Currently, JRK’s biggest project is an 81,000-square-foot building near Prescott Airport, expected to be completed in nine months. Kimery also is working on upgrading a home on Marina Street so that it can be certified as a historic home.

“I’m creative at heart and I wouldn’t do this work if it wasn’t fun,” he said.

The best part of being an architect,

he says, is seeing a project completed. “You have this weird vision when you start and when you finish it, you’re in awe. At the end, I’m trying not to kick myself for not doing something I might have done.”

Kimery serves as an ambassador for the Prescott Chamber of Commerce and enjoys helping other businesses. He especially likes the weekly ribbon cuttings and the annual salute to teachers that the chamber sponsors. “I like bringing the community together.”

In addition, Kimery is a member of the Prescott Power Partners, a business networking group that meets each month.

Kimery continuously studies other architects and their styles. He believes the way a building looks is as important as how it functions. And now, with JRK Architecture Studio, he’s found he has had to learn business skills. He emphasizes customer service.

“I try to meet all the customer’s needs. I’m friendly and it works because I have a lot of repeat customers,” he said.

The most challenging part of his

architecture business is meeting the customer’s needs while staying within their budget. “I tell clients we can build anything, but it will cost them money and time.”

Kimery advises clients not only on design, but also on what materials are best to use. He also promotes projects that fit with the environment.

For young people considering a career as an architect, he recommends they study various types of architecture. “If you don’t get enthused, don’t go into it, because architects are not rich,” he said. QCBN

For more information about JRK Architecture, email rick@jrkarchitecture.com.

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Architect Rick Kimery promotes projects that fit with the environment.

Photo by Stan Bindell

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Business

Natural Skin-Care Products Safe Enough to Eat

Sedona’s natural beauty inspired Amelia Danoff’s Garden of Eden Organics

By V. Ronnie Tierney, QCBN

Some say that if your beauty products aren’t safe enough to eat, they may not be that good to put on your body. With Garden of Eden Organics (GEO), owner Amelia Danoff says this is not a concern with her products.

Now living in Sedona, this Bostonborn and raised 25-year-old is taking skin care and body deodorizers to a whole new level with products that she says are safe enough to eat. “Our skin, especially sensitive areas, are the most absorptive to your bloodstream. The chemicals in most deodorants and beauty creams can be damaging to your entire system.”

It all started when Danoff was having disruptive skin issues when she was using standard deodorants. “Aluminum-based deodorants were compromising my skin and I was dealing with skin abrasions and rashes. After doing some research, I started to feel very uncomfortable about some of the ingredients contained in deodorants. A friend advised that if you couldn’t pronounce them, then they might not be good for you. As I got older, I became more conscious of what I was putting into my body, not only with food but products, too.”

The solution to Danoff’s sensitive

skin reactions and concerns about in gredients was to handcraft the products herself. Now, many of her customers are very thankful.

“I’m a holistic health and wellness coach and as you can imagine, using clean, natural products is very important to me,” said Empowering Wellness owner Krista Arnaudo, based in Cottonwood. “Amelia has such a beautiful integrity about what she uses in her products by making a line of clean and natural products that are non-toxic. My favorite is her deodorant, which is targeted to keep odor down and keeps me fresh throughout the day, even during workouts. I give her five stars.”

Going back to her younger days, Danoff recalls her interest in making products. “I remember taking small, travel-size bottles and mixing creams to make potions. Then I would create a stand in our driveway and pretend to sell the products to my family. It’s funny, because it’s kind of what I’m doing now – but on a much larger scale, of course.”

Danoff attended Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, and graduated with a degree in Italian studies.  She credits her grandmother, Sue Kuan, for sparking her curiosity about beauty products. “My first skin care tip was from my grandmother, who takes banana peels and rubs them on her face.  She is into her 80s and

has the most amazing skin. She has no wrinkles.”

Working at farmers markets in Flagstaff and the Verde Valley, Danoff also is selling her products at Chocolita Downtown on South San Francisco St. in Flagstaff.

“Customers have commented on her wonderful scents, especially the gardenia face moisturizer,” said Chocolita Downtown owner Sarah Ann Lesslie. “Amelia pays such attention to detail with her packaging. And her products not only smell incredible but are very effective. On top of that, she is such a sweetheart and great to work with.”

Living and hiking in Sedona has inspired Danoff’s products. “The ingredients I use in my products are straight from nature, and hiking in the majesty of the red rocks has not only inspired how I make my products but also my packaging,” she said.

After producing her deodorant paste, she then moved into solid fragrances. “These are solid form essential oil scents in recyclable push up tubes. I

have five scents, and customers love them because of their portability. The bestsellers are my sandalwood and gardenia. I source my essential oils from reputable companies.”

Harvesting rosemary, peppermint and other herbs in her garden, Danoff’s product list continues with a Beef Tallow Moisturizer (another bestseller), a Rosemary Hair Oil, a range of nine lip balms produced from Sperry Farm Honey beeswax, plus candles and spray deodorants. She is in the process of re-

formulating her ultra-light moisturizer. “I’ve only been in business for six months, but my products have really taken off. My most recent creation is an essential oil car diffuser that’s ready to sell. I’m just waiting for labels.”

The GEO products are all free of aluminum, parabens, phthalates, talc and synthetic fragrances. QCBN

For more information about GEO, visit www.gardenofedenorganix.com.

Top: Garden of Eden Organics founder Amelia Danoff sells her all-natural skin care products at the Verde Valley Farmers Market in Camp Verde and in Chocolita Downtown in Flagstaff. Bottom: GEO products include spray-on deodorant, a deodorant paste, a natural deodorant stick, an anti-aging tallow moisturizer and an ultra-light moisturizer. Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

GEO lip balms are handcrafted in nine flavors and made with Sperry Farm Beeswax.

Hospice

Chino Valley Harvest Festival Offers Pumpkins, Hayrides, Corn Maze

By Stan Bindell, QCBN

Afall Harvest Festival with a wide array of events for kids and adults will be offered from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 5 at the Chino Valley campus of the Yavapai College Agribusiness & Science Technology Center at Old Home Manor.

A corn maze, tractor show, hayrides, pumpkin and corn picking, and face painting will be among the activities. The Kids Zone will be expanded while greenhouse tours, plant sales and the beer garden are always popular among adults.

Five food trucks will be available and specialty items will be offered by vendors, ranging from artwork to cookies.

“We’re hoping for no rain this year,” said Yavapai College Associate Dean for Career and Technical Education Marnie Zazueta, noting

that a downpour has ended the event early the last few years.

The annual event brings up to 4,000 attendees each year. “The Harvest Festival is just about being involved in the community,” she said.

Other vendors include Chino Valley High School Future Farmers of America and Yavapai Regional Transit. Yavapai College booths will showcase various programs, including Agribusiness Technology Management, Commercial Drivers Training, Electrical Utility Linework and Residential Building Technology.

The Harvest Festival is co-hosted by the Town of Chino Valley, Chino Valley Area Chamber of Commerce and Yavapai College. Admission is free, but there is a $5 parking fee. For more information, call 928-717-7725. QCBN

Chino Valley Community Services Director Cyndi Thomas has found herself surrounded by kids at the Harvest Festival in the past. Photos by Stan Bindell

Old cars will be showcased at Harvest Festival.

BY BONNIE STEVENS, QCBN

Successful People Plan, Practice, Persist

While Ignoring Polar Bears

When we witness someone achieving extraordinary success or delivering a flawless performance, we are often tempted to call it “genius” or “in their DNA,” which really diminishes the effort and practice put in by the individual and also takes the pressure off the rest of us for ever having to do anything exceptional. And to that, I say, “Fine. Just stop thinking about white bears.”

In Heidi Grant Halvorson’s nifty

little book, “9 Things Successful People Do Differently,” she places strategies of accomplished people on display. She believes that they reach their goals because of what they do, not what they were born with. And she boldly maintains that we can achieve our goals, too!

Here are three of her nine “things.”

SEIZE THE MOMENT TO ACT ON YOUR GOALS

Basically, we can do better by deciding when and where we will take action on our goals. In fact, she says research shows this strategy can increase our chances of seizing opportunities by 300% by making statements like, “I will read and respond to emails at 8 a.m., every weekday.”

//

This is my favorite of Grant Halvorson’s nine things. She writes: “Given how busy most of us are, and how many goals we are juggling at once, it’s not surprising that we routinely miss opportunities to act on a goal because we simply fail to notice them.”

Basically, we can do better by deciding when and where we will take action on our goals. In fact, she says research shows this strategy can increase our chances of seizing opportunities by 300% by making statements like, “I will read and respond to emails at 8 a.m., every weekday.”

She also promotes “if-then” planning. For example, she writes, “If I haven’t written the report before lunch, then I will make it the first thing I do when I return.”

Why this is effective has something to do with algebraic expressions, I think. Grant Halvorson says it’s the way our brains work. “Human beings are particularly good at encoding and remembering information in ‘If X, then Y’ terms.”

BE A REALISTIC OPTIMIST

We’ve heard a lot about positive thinking and believing we can achieve what we can imagine. This is all great and can be supremely helpful in motivating us to focus on our goals. But the tricky part is when we think this is all we have to do. Grant Halverson states, “Don’t underestimate how difficult it will be to reach your goal. Most goals worth achieving require time, planning, effort and persistence.”

And that’s the difference between being a realistic optimist and wishing upon a star under Flagstaff’s dark skies. Grant Halverson says “visualizing effortless success is unhelpful,” even “disastrous.” She goes on to state that believing you can succeed and believing you can succeed effortlessly are two very different things.

FOCUS ON WHAT YOU WILL DO, NOT WHAT YOU WON’T DO

This strategy is perhaps best demonstrated by the

last time you said you would never do something again, like eat more than one small scoop of ice cream in one sitting. Grant Halvorson writes, “Too often, people concentrate all their efforts on what they want to stop doing and fail to consider how they will fill the void.”

Don’t believe it? She says research reveals that trying to avoid something makes it more active in our mind. For example, “Don’t think about white bears!” she writes. If your brain is frolicking with polar bears on sea ice somewhere in the Arctic right now, she has this advice, “If you want to change your ways, ask yourself, what will I do instead?” QCBN

“9 Things Successful People Do Differently” was published by Harvard Business Review Press in 2012.

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

THE FRENCHIE GARDEN

Discover Careers in Yavapai County’s Leisure, Hospitality, and Tourism Industry!

Why Work in Yavapai County?

 Top Employment Sector: Leisure and hospitality rank as the thirdlargest industry in the county.

 Culinary Excellence: Features farm-to-table dining, craft beverages, and 2023 Golden Plate Award-winning food safety.

 Diverse Roles Available: Opportunities in hotels, restaurants, event coordination, and outdoor recreation.

 Beautiful Setting: Work in a region known for its scenic beauty and growing culinary culture.

Career Opportunities Include:

 Hotels & Resorts: Front desk, housekeeping, management

 Culinary & Restaurants: Chefs, servers, kitchen staff

 Events & Tourism: Tour guides, event planners, travel agents

 Outdoor Recreation & Parks: Rangers, adventure guides

ARIZONA@WORK-Yavapai County is here to help you connect with local employers. Call us at 928-778-1422 to explore careers in the leisure, hospitality, and tourism industry.

Finding Her Light, Illuminating a Brighter Path for Others

Mona Stephens is the ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award recipient

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

Raised in an environment saturated with drug and alcohol addiction, poverty and neglect, 31-year-old Mona Stephens believes every hard-earned lesson is a gift she can share with others who are facing adversity. “In the beginning of trying to turn my life around, I did this to help others and in doing so, I helped myself,” said the 2024 Prescott-Area ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award recipient.

As the development director for the CASA for Kids Foundation, Stephens is committed to helping others be better versions of themselves. She conducts workshops at Yavapai County Juvenile Court to teach at-risk kids creativity, resiliency and emotional intelligence. She also volunteers for the Launch Pad Teen Center and runs a women’s empowerment group.

“With all of the work I did on myself – going from seeing the world as this dark place to seeing it as a world of possibilities – I can show others how we can live better,” she said. “Life happens for the evolution of our soul and everything I’ve experienced, I would do it the exact same way so that I would have the tools to be able to help, to show others that they deserve to live a good life. You never know who needs to hear that message.”

In a matter-of-fact and non-judgmental sort of way, Stephens recalls her upbringing, surrounded by adults with addiction issues, some functioning better than others. Constantly struggling to find her identity, hunting for meaning and grasping for purpose, she says she has had suicidal

thoughts since age 9.

“I had no love for myself. I hated life. I felt like I never fit in anywhere and was constantly thinking, ‘What’s wrong with me?’ When I got to middle school, this new girl started giving me attention. I had a friend for the first time. She showed me drugs as a way to numb the world.”

By age 13, Stephens was intercepting the paycheck her dad would bring home to pay the bills. But there was never enough. “We were really poor.”

She began selling drugs to make money to keep the household operating. She got caught twice and went to jail. Shortly after she was released, her mom died. And that’s when she decided never to sell drugs again.

By 19, she was in an abusive relationship and tried, unsuccessfully, to commit suicide. “I found a thread online about what to do to tweak your attempt. What I got from this, from everyone telling their story of why they wanted to commit suicide, was that each one was telling the other ‘You deserve to live.’”

She decided she would be a light in the darkness for those who were suffering.

Stephens began reading positive, self-help books to change the way she thought. “It starts with the decision. When you have the intention of living better, doing better, things start to happen. I made that decision, figured out how to thrive in life and feel better in it. The first thing you learn is not to be a victim and ask yourself, ‘What am I learning from this?’ Everything has a lesson. My life started changing internally, it was just enough to attract the person I needed.”

That person was the owner of the deli where she was working. “She wanted to promote me to assistant manager but knew I would quit school if she did. She also knew what was going on in my

Mona Stephens teaches at-risk kids creativity, resiliency and emotional intelligence. She also volunteers for the Launch Pad Teen Center and runs a women’s empowerment group.

Photo by Kay Lyons

BOLD Mission: Debra Boblitt Coaches Leaders to Courageously Pursue Their Calling

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

Debra Boblitt knows what it takes to completely halt a journey on one career path and make a massive course adjustment. She did just that, after years of teaching and earning additional degrees in education. She even cashed out her retirement fund to follow her dream and launch her own business. Today, this Scottsdale-based entrepreneur is helping others find and go after their true passion.

Boblitt’s bold move led her to corporate America where she spent nearly three decades as a leader at State Farm Insurance Companies, serving as senior vice president and training leaders before leaving to pursue her portfolio career as a business coach through Boblitt Consulting, LLC.

She encourages others to pay attention to “the tug on your heart that pulls you to something bigger.” Her book, “BOLD Mission Courageously Pursue Your Calling,” offers a fourstep plan to embrace leadership and pursue that dream.

THE BOLD STRATEGY

Boblitt uses BOLD: Believing,

Owning, Living and Duplicating, as an acronym and framework to guide those seeking to realize their life’s mission.

“Believing, is about believing in yourself and your calling,” she says. She helps her clients find their calling by first building their foundation – a strong set of values. “Your values are your priorities. These deep values are things you cannot live without, your non-negotiables. They are critical in determining your passion and once you determine that, there has to be this combination of your values and your passion. Those two always go together.”

The second step, Owning, is where the activity takes place, she says.

“You’re doing research. You’re finding other people who do what you want to do and then you are having a conversation with those people. At this point you are actively beginning to feel your mission.”

She writes, “Owning your calling is what makes some people abruptly quit school, buy the ticket to Paris, or push “print” on their letter of resignation.”

The third step, Living, is about em-

bodying the mission in everyday life and sharing it with others. “People watch the way you live,” she writes. “Your choices, particularly as a leader, are visible to others. They see what you put out into the world through your words and your behavior. That’s what living your purpose is. And that, of course, includes the decisions that you make, how you treat people, what your priorities are, who you choose to spend time with, and where you put your money.”

The fourth step is Duplicating. It is about duplicating your efforts to pass on knowledge and inspire others. She writes, “When we have ‘enough’ for ourselves, our job is now to increase that so we can share it with others.”

Boblitt reflects on her time as an executive, where she was known for mentoring and helping others reach the next level. “I knew I could get them there because of my values and my passion. By duplicating our efforts, we can give back so others can become a success.”

OVERCOMING FEAR

Boblitt’s motivation for writing “BOLD Continued on page 37

Debra Boblitt explains the importance of sharing dreams with a wider audience. She guides clients through the process of defining their messages and becoming comfortable with public speaking. Courtesy photo

3RD ANNUAL PRESCOTT AREA ATHENA AWARDS

Join us for:

Prescott Area ATHENA High Tea, an afternoon of Inspiration, Celebration and Networking

September 18, 2022, 3-5pm

Starting Point (Prescott Gateway Mall)

Keynote Speaker: Colleen Biggs

Presented by:

The ATHENA program celebrates women who achieve excellence in their profession, provide service to their community and help others, particularly women, become the best they can be.

Marnie

Uhl

President/CEO

Praised for bringing positive growth and solidarity to Prescott Valley, Marnie Uhl, a performer and retired Los Angeles County deputy sheriff, has led the PV Chamber of Commerce for 19 years. As a community builder and mentor, she creates opportunities for others.

CASA-Court Appointed Special Advocates of Yavapai County has an all-woman staff that promotes the involvement of women-leadervolunteers to represent the-best-interestsof-children who have been removed from their homes and in the care of the court system.

Mona is committed to helping others be better versions of themselves. She conducts workshops at Juvenile Court to teach at-risk kids creativity, resiliency and emotional intelligence. She also volunteers for the Launch Pad Teen Center and runs a Women’s Empowerment Group.

Whitewater Fiend Launches River Gear Shop

By Peter Corbett, QCBN

Thomas Herring is in his element on turbulent rivers, whether it’s as a boatman on the raging Colorado or kayaking some of the world’s gnarliest rapids.

Rivers have been good to him and he’s giving back.

Herring, 37, opened Vishnu River Supply in December in East Flagstaff. He is leasing a 3,000-square-foot building at 3780 N. Eagle Mountain Drive formerly occupied by Wet Dreams River Supply.

Vishnu’s retail space is stocked with kayaks, pack rafts, stand-up paddleboards, lifejackets, paddles, helmets, dry bags, dry gear, air pumps, coolers, stoves, clothing, ropes, straps and other supplies for water adventures.

Herring said his primary market is boaters

going on private Colorado River trips who forgot some gear or need a guidebook, straps or some clothing.

“There’s people who run the Grand Canyon on private trips every day of the year,” he said.

The National Park Service issues 503 permits annually for noncommercial trips through Grand Canyon.

Vishnu River Supply adds another layer to Flagstaff’s lucrative river-related businesses, even though the city’s only river — Rio de Flag — is an intermittent stream. Flagstaff’s proximity to Lees Ferry and the Colorado River makes it an ideal hub for Grand Canyon outfitters.

The 16 commercial river outfitters generate $46 million in gross revenue, according to the National Park Service.

Longtime river guide and global kayaker Thomas Herring opened Vishnu River Supply in December.

Photo by Austin Corbett

Vishnu River Supply sells and rents kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. Photo by Austin Corbett.

What Do You Do with Hearing Loss in One Ear?

By Jeff Lane, Au.D.

Hearing loss presents itself in a unique manner in each individual. Barring hereditary losses, each occurrence will be slightly varied. Some people will have a sensory loss, while others are conductive. Some will occur at birth, while others do not appear until late in life. One aspect that is sometimes glossed over is whether the hearing loss is bilateral or unilateral. Bilateral means the loss occurs in both ears, whereas unilateral is just one ear. Since the majority of hearing losses are bilateral, this tends to be the default assumption. But unilateral hearing losses can occur and present their own unique challenges and treatment options.

CAUSES AND SYMPTOMS

An estimated 7% of adults in the United States have a unilateral hearing loss. The causes can include

anatomical abnormalities, acoustic or physical trauma, chronic ear infections and viral infections. Similar to bilateral losses, they can be sensorineural or conductive, and can have different degrees of severity. That second part is important, as it will influence the language that is used.

A unilateral hearing loss, as mentioned, is a loss that occurs in one ear, but wherein some degree of useable hearing remains. The term single-sided deafness refers specifically to a profound hearing loss in one ear and normal hearing in the other. That is, the affected ear is dead.

All hearing losses affect quality of life and communication ability. Unilateral losses, unfortunately, add even more challenges. Namely, they reduce the capacity to hear in background noise and localize sounds. When we hear normally, our brains are able to filter out the noise we don’t want to hear and focus our attention on a spe-

//

cific talker. This is called the cocktail party effect. It’s not that our ears don’t hear all the other commotion; our brains are just able to ignore it all so that we can carry on a conversation.

Localization refers to the ability to know where sounds are coming from in relation to your position (e.g., behind, to the left). To do this, our brains take advantage of something called the head shadow effect. If a sound is coming from the right, it will arrive slightly sooner and louder to our right ear than our left, because our heads create a barrier around which the soundwave must travel. Our auditory systems are highly tuned to these slight discrepancies. They compare and contrast the signals from each ear to determine the origin of the sound. However, this system relies on the signals on each side being even, which is obviously not the case if one ear has a hearing loss. The lopsided signal throws us

If a sound is coming from the right, it will arrive slightly sooner and louder to our right ear than our left, because our heads create a barrier around which the soundwave must travel. Our auditory systems are highly tuned to these slight discrepancies. //

off, making it significantly harder to know where sounds are coming from. The same is true for hearing in noise. In short, there is auditory chaos.

MANAGEMENT

Fortunately, there are ways to help manage unilateral hearing losses. One, of course, is to put a hearing aid on the affected ear. This will improve sound awareness on that particular side, and balance out the ears, which will benefit hearing in noise and localization. However, this is not always an option. In such cases, we look to specialty devices.

CROS

If the hearing loss is too significant, or speech understanding is too poor, putting a hearing aid on the affected ear won’t help. In this case, a CROS could be used. A CROS looks like a normal hearing aid, but instead of delivering the sound to the bad ear, it transfers it to the good ear. That way, the good ear does all the listening, but the user still gets the benefit of improved sound awareness on the bad side.

BAHA

A Baha, or bone-anchored hearing aid, is a surgical implant that vibrates the skull.

The sound then travels across the head and stimulates the good ear. A Baha is typically used in cases where a hearing aid is not possible, such as an undeveloped ear or chronic infections. It can also be used in cases of single-sided deafness, but again, this would require the bad ear to be completely dead.

COCHLEAR IMPLANT

A cochlear implant as also surgically inserted and works by skipping past the ear altogether and stimulating the auditory nerve directly. They were recently approved by the FDA for cases of single-sided deafness. Cochlear implants have the most prerequisites, but are a wonderful option for those who qualify.

Unilateral hearing can be frustrating and disorientating, but there is always hope. Reach out to your local audiologist to start your journey towards better communication. QCBN

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

// COMMUNITY PROFILE //

BY V. RONNIE TIERNEY, QCBN

Western Treasures Found at Jim’s Trading Post

Jim Andrus’ Rimrock store surprises and delights visitors

Coming from the Interstate 17 off-ramp into Rimrock, it’s difficult not to notice the rustic but inviting sign in the distance that reads Jim’s Trading Post.

Finding a trading post may feel like discovering a relic from days gone by, but once you’ve stepped inside this menagerie of treasures, you understand that it’s less like a trading post of yore and more like a country store on steroids.

Coming from a world of opulence, movie stars and Forbes-listed billionaires, Jim’s Trading Post owner Jim Andrus left a life of managing elite country clubs for the simpler ways of Rim Rock, Arizona.

“I served as the general manager of The Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club in Corona Del Mar, Martis Camp in Lake Tahoe, and The Golf Club Scottsdale, as well as other properties. It was a stressful life, plus I had the devastating loss of my girlfriend in a

Vespa accident,” said Andrus.

Against all his friends’ advice, Andrus turned in his resignation and moved to Arizona. “My parents were living in Cottonwood, so I stayed with them for a while trying to figure

out what I was going to do. With the downturn of the economy in 2008 and 2009, I lost my house in San Marcos. I was starting all over at 59 years old.”

In 2014, a friend suggested that

Andrus rent a property in Rimrock. “It was Valentine’s Day, Feb. 14, when I opened my store. It’s been a great journey ever since and I’m having so much fun.”

“The stress of trying to please peo-

ple and deal with high-maintenance members is gone. Now, I’m responsible for my world, which is the store. I love the flexibility and the freedom,” he said.

Continued on page 34

Against his friends’ advice, Jim Andrus quit his job and moved to Arizona, trading his life with the rich and famous for a more peaceful existence. Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

Andrus is proud of his finds. This 1937 Packard, that he’s storing for a friend, fits in with the interesting collection of surprises found at Jim’s Trading Post.

Genius Garden Club Offers Respite, Social Outlet for Moms

By Stan Bindell

With the snip of a ribbon, the Genius Garden Club opened its doors in September, offering a first-of-its-kind haven for full-time moms. The club allows mothers to recharge in a supportive social environment. Whether sipping coffee with other moms or taking advantage of short-term childcare at reasonable rates, members have a place to relax while their kids are safely cared for.

Genius Garden Club’s unique approach includes offering discounted memberships to moms willing to watch other children, creating a collaborative and community-based atmosphere. For those seeking solitude, the club provides three quiet rooms, equipped with beds, where worn-out moms can take a much-needed break or catch up on work.

Owner Naomi Tanguay, a mother of two, knows firsthand the toll of sleepless nights and constant caregiving. “This helps with moms’ emotional distress, and most childcare is too expensive,” she said. “The goal is essentially

to bring the village to motherhood.”

Amy Chung, a mother of two and club member, says the quiet rooms could well be life-changing. “I wished I had something like this when my kids were little,” she said.

Annie Perkins, office coordinator for the Chino Valley Area Chamber of Commerce, praised Tanguay’s vi-

sion and dedication. “Naomi took an ordinary building and turned it into something amazing,” she said, while presenting Tanguay with a certificate of appreciation. QCBN

Genius Garden Club is open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Mondays through Fridays, at 901 AZ-89, in Chino Valley.

Above Naomi Tangray, surrounded by moms, opens the Genius Garden Club with a September ribbon-cutting ceremony. Top Right Eketerina Spreng hangs out at the giant chessboard with (front row) Teddy and Simon Chung and Evan Parker-Bay. Bottom Right Local mom Amy Chung sits in the quiet room where she and other moms can work at a desk or take a nap. Photos by Stan Bindell

QC pet news

Caring for the Backcountry

Local nonprofit works to protect trails for horseback riders and hikers

By Betsey Bruner, QCBN

There are many lovely trails in the forested land around Prescott. Several are challenging and, some say, best navigated on foot or horseback.

One such trail is in the Granite Mountains. It leads uphill to a gnarled alligator juniper tree, dedicated to the memory of the 19 Granite Mountain Hotshots, firefighters who created a fire break that saved it from the Doce Fire in June 2013. Those 19 men died 12 days later in the Yarnell Hill Fire, about 30 miles south of Prescott.

This peaceful and beautiful route is a very emotional experience and is one of the favorite trails for Jacque Gorman of Prescott, who made this journey on horseback last fall.

“It’s very moving,” Gorman recalled. “The old tree is a rare landmark in this area, more than a thousand years old. A lot of hikers walk it. It’s well maintained. I rode my very dependable, 16-year-old Appaloosa named Elvis; he’s my ‘go-to’ horse.”

Gorman knows her trails and horses. She started riding horses at 5 years old on her uncle’s farm in Pennsylvania.

Today, she and her husband, Ed Sierman, co-own the nine-acre Granite Mountain Stables, where they board about 60 horses at a time, have a hay sales business and enjoy the care and company of three horses they own, a mini-donkey, a mule, three fainting goats (they fall down when scared), two black-bellied sheep, four dogs and two barn cats.

“It’s my dream come true,” said Gorman, a speech pathologist. “But, it’s a lot of work.”

As if she is not busy enough, Gorman is currently vice president of Back Country Horsemen of Central Arizona (BCHCAZ), a not-for-profit organization whose aim is to preserve and maintain wilderness areas and to encourage the wise and sustainable use and enjoyment of public lands by

people and their stock animals.

“As many people are aware, what’s happening is with all the growth and expansion of business and residential real estate, public lands are shrinking,” she said. “We aim to keep the public lands that are still available accessible to people who want to enjoy them. They have to be cleared and maintained, and not just have things overgrown. Also, we want to make sure that when people are enjoying the wilderness, they are taking care of it.”

Stock animals are defined as animals that can be used for carting, driving, riding, clearing, pulling big equipment and packing in gear, she explained. “Mules and horses are stock, and donkeys could be included in that. People don’t really use oxen anymore. A big part of our mission is trail work, and we ride horses and mules into areas to clear land not accessible by vehicle.”

An example of this volunteer trail work is an ongoing project to improve the Williamson Valley Trailhead. Twelve members of BCHCAZ met on Aug. 30 to whack weeds, rake, dig, move rock and haul away two truckloads of brush, according to the group’s website.

Plans call for picnic tables, a hitching post and a wooden mounting block.

Another service project is the replenishing of bike bells at three trailheads in Williamson Valley, Metate and Cayuse. They are used to alert other users on trails of the approach of bikers.

“We buy and supply bike bells so bikers can use them,” Gorman said. “Bikers can keep them or return them to the boxes.”

Four horsemen in the Flathead Valley in Montana, who sought to soften restrictive government rules about access to trails for recreational use, started the national Back Country Horsemen of America (BCHA) in 1973. Since that time, members in

BCHA have volunteered their time and stock animals, traveling more than 1.1 million miles to locations to do volunteer work, Gorman said.

BCHCAZ also assists government and private agencies in maintaining and managing resources and educating and encouraging participation in the wise use of the backcountry resources by horsemen and the general public.

Many groups partner with BCHCAZ in this work, including Prescott National Forest, Coconino National Forest, Kaibab National Forest, Tonto National Forest, the National Park Service, including Grand Canyon National Park and Wupatki National Monument, Arizona Trails Association, BLM and Yavapai Trail Association.

Each BCHA chapter and state organization is independent. Chapters often work closely with each other within a state and even across state lines when needed. The Central Arizona chapter began

in 1998 and has about 115 members who meet monthly on zoom. They also meet regularly for trail rides, horse camping, work days and socials at local restaurants, Gorman said.

The territory of the nonprofit extends from the Sedona, Verde Valley and Cottonwood areas to the Quad Cities and down to Black Canyon City. Arizona has four BCH chapters, in the White Mountains, Central Arizona, Kingman and the East Valley.

Back Country Horsemen of America groups have developed Tread Lightly programs that parallel the government’s Leave No Trace set of principles, which encourage visitor to leave the natural world as they found it.

A few of those principles include observing a distance from wildlife, controlling pets in nature, yielding to others on the trail, using lightweight stoves for cooking and lanterns for light, using a fire ring if allowed, burning all campfire wood and coal to ash, putting campfires out com-

pletely and scattering cold ashes.

The primary annual fundraiser for BCHCAZ is scheduled for Friday through Sunday, Nov. 1-3, at the historic Bumble Bee Ranch in Mayer. Proceeds from the event will be used to support BCHCAZ efforts to promote trail maintenance and trail etiquette, Gorman noted.

The weekend will promote self-guided rides and guided rides with experienced equestrians. There will be easy in-and-out dry camping, with full restrooms, shower facilities, electrical hookups and stalls available, she said. Meals will include hot breakfasts both Saturday and Sunday, and ranch-style dinners on Friday and Saturday.

Activities also will include live music and dancing Friday night, a silent auction, daily raffles and a live auction on Saturday. QCBN

For more information, visit www.BCHCAZ. org.

Back Country Horsemen of Central Arizona volunteers work to preserve and maintain natural areas and to encourage the wise and sustainable use and enjoyment of public lands by people and their animals. Courtesy photo

The Joy and Benefits of Adopting a Rescue Dog: A Life-Changing Experience for You and Your Furry Friend

By Loree Walden

In a world where the bond between humans and dogs is pure magic, few things can compare to the joy of adopting a rescue dog. Beyond the heartwarming experience, adopting a furry companion has a way of transforming your life in the best possible way. From the moment you bring your new buddy home, you’ll discover countless reasons why adopting a dog is one of the most rewarding decisions you’ll ever make.

Every year, millions of dogs end up in shelters – some through no fault of their own. Whether due to abandonment, neglect or just plain bad luck, these pups are in need of a fresh start. When you adopt, you’re their hero – the knight in shining armor they’ve been waiting for! It’s not just about getting a pet; it’s about giving a dog a second chance at happiness, and in return, they’ll show you what true loyalty looks like. Your decision changes their world, and they, in

turn, will change yours.

Dogs are masters of unconditional love. When you adopt, you’re gaining a best friend who will stick by your side no matter what. Whether it’s a playful tail wag when you walk through the door or those soulful eyes that melt your heart, your adopted dog will shower you with affection in ways that words can’t fully describe. Their loyalty is unmatched, and the bond you’ll form together will bring warmth and joy to your everyday life.

It’s a lesson in compassion, kindness and the beauty of selfless love.

Adopting a dog isn’t just good for the soul – it’s great for the body, too! Think of your dog as your personal fitness coach with a furry twist. Daily walks, trips to the park, games of fetch, and impromptu sprints are just part of the package. Your pup will motivate you to get moving, making it easier (and way more fun) to stay active. But that’s not all – dogs also have this magical ability to lift your spirits, reduce stress, and make even

the hardest days a little brighter. With their playful energy and calming presence, they’re the ultimate mood boosters.

Looking for a playful partner in crime? Or maybe you want a mellow companion to lounge with after a long day? The beauty of adopting is that shelter dogs come in every shape, size and personality you can imagine. Whether you’re craving the fun chaos of a puppy or the steady companionship of a senior dog, there’s a perfect match waiting for you. Plus, adoption allows you to find a dog that fits your lifestyle, making it a smoother and more enjoyable transition for both you and your new furry family member.

That said, keep in mind that rescue dogs may need time to adjust. Life in a shelter is extremely different from a home, and your new friend might take a little while to settle in. They might be a little shy, have some accidents, or act out while they adjust to their new routine. But with a little

patience and understanding, you’ll soon discover the incredible love that comes with giving them a forever home.

One of the many perks of adopting from a shelter? It’s not just a feel-good decision – it’s a smart one, too! When you adopt from Yavapai Humane Society, your pet is spayed or neutered, up to date on all vaccines and microchipped, saving you hundreds of dollars. That means your new furry family member comes with a clean bill of health and a head start on their journey into your life.

Shelter dogs have this incredible gift of making you feel like you’re the most important person in the world. They don’t care if you’re having a bad day, or if you’re still in your pajamas at noon – they love you for who you are. Their constant companionship and affectionate nature can provide a steady source of comfort, helping you through tough times and celebrating the good ones.

With them by your side, life just feels a little bit sweeter.

Adopting a rescue dog is more than just bringing home a pet – it’s the beginning of an unforgettable adventure filled with wagging tails, cozy snuggles and endless laughs. Your new sidekick will fill your home with joy, and in return, you’ll be giving them the life they’ve always deserved. So, if you’re ready to open your heart and home, head to Yavapai Humane Society and meet your new best friend. You’re not just adopting a dog, you’re starting a beautiful chapter filled with love, companionship and plenty of pawsitive memories!

Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.

PepperJacks Expands in Chino Valley

Offering breakfast, burgers and more

By Stan Bindell, QCBN

After 11 years of having a small drive-up eatery, PepperJacks of Chino Valley has moved down Highway 89 in front of Days Inn, and owner Lyndell Browder has expanded the size of the restaurant and menu.  PepperJacks continues to offer drive-up service, but now has an attractive covered patio as well as seating inside. The restaurant has a number of hamburger options, but also offers much more, with tacos, chicken sandwiches, chicken strips, chicken salads and many side dishes. For breakfast, burritos, crepes and quiche round out the menu. Plus, the bakery offers an assortment of choices for the sweet tooth.

This expansion has increased the business from one outside table to 13 and from nine employees to 20.  Browder, along with his wife, LuEllen, and daughter, Laura, are proud that they are a “mom and pop” business providing down-home comfort food. Lyndell credits Laura for the design of the farm-themed eatery. “We’re catering to that since

this is a farming community,” he said.

Much of the decor came from family members, and because they just opened at the new location Aug. 24, they are continuing to add to the atmosphere.

On Tuesday, Sept. 10, the Chino Valley Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for PepperJacks. “We had a great turnout. I love working with the community,” said Browder. “We do a lot with the high school and the police department. We want to help people out when we can.”

Lyndell said PepperJack’s mission

is to not only serve good food, but to be a destination – a place where locals want to hang out. He moved to Chino Valley 20 years ago from the Central Valley of California to live closer to his brother-in-law.

“There wasn’t another place in the Quad Cities where I wanted to open

Building Trust, One Home at a Time

By Lucy Leyva

When I started Prescott Maid to Order in 2005, I didn’t set out to build a big company. My goal was simple: I wanted to help people. I’ve always believed that cleaning is more than tidying up a house. It’s about giving people back their time, their peace of mind and a better quality of life. There’s something special about walking into a space that feels fresh, welcoming and truly cared for. I wanted to give that feeling to people in my community, and that’s where this journey began. From the start, trust was at the center of everything I did. Letting someone into your home is a big deal. It’s your private space, your sanctuary. I understood that and ensured Prescott Maid to Order was built on the foundation of respect and reliability. Every member of my team is trained, not just in how to clean but in how to respect the homes they enter. One of our policies is simple but vital: We don’t open drawers and we don’t look at screens, whether it’s a phone, computer or anything else left on in the house. Our clients must feel entirely comfortable with the people entering their space, knowing their privacy is continually respected. That’s why we put such a strong

emphasis on building relationships with our clients.

Over the years, those relationships have been the heart of my business. My clients are more than just customers – they’re people I’ve gotten to know who trust my team and me to care for their homes as if they were our own. I’ve always believed that the best business growth comes from people talking about you because they’ve had a great experience. And that’s precisely what happened with Prescott Maid to Order. The referrals started coming in so frequently that I realized I needed to create a program to thank my clients for trusting us. Their recommendations meant everything to me. It wasn’t about growing the business – it was about being part of something bigger and a community that values trust and connection.

I never imagined in 2005 that Prescott Maid to Order would grow as it has. We now serve families and vacation rental owners in Prescott, Prescott Valley and Chino Valley. We’ve expanded our services, but we’ve never lost sight of what made us successful in the first place: trust, relationships and doing things the right way. I’ve always told my team that we’re not just cleaning houses but helping people maintain their sa-

PepperJacks,” he said. “Chino Valley has been good to us. They have kept our business going.” QCBN PepperJacks is located at 289 State Rt 89.

cred spaces. And I genuinely believe that’s what sets us apart. It’s not about the numbers for me. It’s about knowing we’re making a difference in people’s lives, even in small ways. Whether preparing a home for a family gathering or keeping a vacation rental spotless

for guests, we’re here to make life easier for our clients. That’s what drives me, and that’s what keeps me going after all these years. Prescott Maid to Order is my way of giving back to the community I love, one clean home at a time.

Lucy Leyva is the owner of Prescott Maid to Order.

Lyndell Browder, owner of PepperJacks, says his mission for the restaurant is to serve good food and be a destination, a place where locals want to hang out.

Photos by Stan Bindell

Prescott Pines at Yavapai College: A Unique Approach to Student, Employee Housing

By Dr. Lisa Rhine

Yavapai College has provided student housing since its earliest days in the 1970s. Currently, the college operates two residence halls on its Prescott Campus, at a capacity of 220 beds.

Our region’s housing needs have continued to rise rapidly, and YC was not excluded from the shortage. Through housing studies and new programs, the college’s current housing demand is projected to be as high as 165 beds in the west and 59 beds in the east for students. Additionally, the college has forecast a demand of at least 25 college-owned employee apartments.

YC investigated various solutions, including traditional stick-built ($350

per square foot), modular homes ($297 per square foot), manufactured homes ($267 per square foot), RV travel trailers ($306 per square foot), YC-built tiny homes ($184 per square foot), and purchasing an existing off-campus apartment or hotel to renovate into needed housing (less than $500 per square foot).

Armed with the knowledge of investment costs and following in the footsteps of Prescott Unified School District and Chino Valley Unified School District, which both created workforce housing “teacherages,” the Yavapai College District Governing Board approved the college’s fiscal year 2024 budget. It included pilot housing projects such as an RV park at the Verde Valley Campus, purchasing

The Pines, the RV Park and the manufactured homes are out-of-the-box solutions that are not only tracking to meet the needs of our students and workforce but are doing so in a fiscally responsible way.

four travel trailers, renovating Building 34 on the Prescott Campus into an apartment and purchasing some manufactured homes in the West County.

In 2024, YC became aware of an opportunity to purchase the Prescott Pines Christian Camp. Prescott Pines is conveniently located about 15 minutes from the Prescott Campus and 25 minutes from the college’s Career and Technical Education and Prescott Valley centers.

After considerable due diligence, the college purchased the property for $4.9M. The project has a renovated cost of $138 per square foot – roughly half of the cost of other housing options identified.

Prescott Pines at Yavapai College has opened its doors for students and college employees for the fall 2024 semester.

“It’s beautiful, affordable and such a blessing to be living there. I have everything I need and more,” said Susanna Marcinek, a Yavapai College student. Renovations will continue to create additional workforce housing, update the utility infrastructure and renovate the cafeteria, chapel, gym and athletic field.

BY THE FALL 2025 SEMESTER, YAVAPAI COLLEGE WILL HAVE:

ƒ Student Housing

ƒ 220 Beds in Prescott Campus residence halls

ƒ 94 beds at Prescott Pines apartments (of 165 demand)

ƒ 12 Beds at Verde Valley Campus (of 59 demand)

ƒ 8 beds at Chino Valley Center (of 165 demand)

EMPLOYEE HOUSING

ƒ 1 x 1-bedroom apartment at Prescott Campus for temporary housing

ƒ 1 x 1-bedroom apartment at Prescott Pines

ƒ 6 x 2-bedroom apartments at Prescott Pines

ƒ 3 x 3-bedroom apartments at Prescott Pines

ƒ 1 x 4-bedroom apartments at Prescott Pines (of 25+ demand)

FLEXIBLE HOUSING FOR STUDENTS OR EMPLOYEES

ƒ 4 travel trailers

ƒ 10 RV pads at Verde Valley Campus

ƒ 15 RV pads at Prescott Pines ƒ 6 RV pads at Chino Valley Center

The Pines, the RV Park and the manufactured homes are out-of-thebox solutions that are not only tracking to meet the needs of our students and workforce but are doing so in a fiscally responsible way. It is required that we, as educators, meet our students where they are to provide the education they need to fulfill their goals. When that happens, our entire community benefits. QCBN

Dr. Lisa B. Rhine serves as the 10th president of Yavapai College, bringing to the institution over 35 years of leadership experience across a number of leading colleges and universities in Ohio, Kentucky and Virginia.

Yavapai College offers over 100 degrees and certificates, including two baccalaureate degrees, student and community services, and cultural events and activities at six locations throughout Yavapai County.

Empowering Health Through Holistic Wellness and Biohacking

By Tim McGhee

In an era where conventional medicine often focuses on treating symptoms rather than addressing root causes, more individuals are turning to holistic wellness as a means to take control of their health. Holistic wellness emphasizes the interconnectedness of mind, body and spirit, offering a more comprehensive approach to health that empowers individuals to pursue well-being through education, support and personalized care.

As part of the growing biohacking community, our approach to holistic wellness offers a range of nontraditional modalities designed to help individuals achieve their health goals in a way that aligns with their unique needs and aspirations. By combining ancient practices with cutting-edge technologies, we provide a pathway to optimal health that goes beyond the limitations of traditional medicine.

THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION IN HOLISTIC WELLNESS

One of the cornerstones of holistic wellness is education. Informed individuals are better equipped to make decisions that positively impact their health. We believe that empowering our clients with knowledge is the first step toward taking control of their well-being.

Through personalized consultations, we educate our clients about the various modalities available and how they can be used to address specific health concerns. Whether it’s understanding the benefits of red-light therapy for cellular regeneration or learning how NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) can enhance energy levels and cognitive function, we ensure our clients have the information they need to make informed choices.

Education also plays a crucial role in helping individuals understand the importance of preventative care. By focusing on maintaining health rather than merely treating illness, our clients are encouraged to take a proactive approach to their well-being.

SUPPORTIVE ENVIRONMENT FOR WELLNESS

Holistic wellness thrives in a supportive environment where individuals feel encouraged and motivated to pursue their health goals. Our community is built on the foundation of support, providing our clients with the resources and guidance they need to succeed on their wellness journey.

We offer personalized care plans that take into account each individual’s unique health needs, preferences and goals. These plans are designed to be flexible and adaptable, ensuring that our clients receive the support they

need at every stage of their wellness journey.

In addition to one-on-one support, we foster a sense of community among our clients. By connecting individuals with like-minded people who share similar health goals, we create an environment where support and encouragement are readily available.

PERSONALIZED CARE THROUGH INNOVATIVE MODALITIES

At the heart of our approach to holistic wellness is the belief that personalized care is essential for achieving optimal health. We offer a variety of innovative, nontraditional modalities that are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.

Red Light Therapy: This treatment utilizes low-level wavelengths of red light to promote cellular regeneration and healing. It is particularly effective for skin health, reducing inflammation and improving circulation.

Dry Salt Therapy: Also known as halotherapy, dry salt therapy involves inhaling microscopic salt particles to improve respiratory health, skin conditions and overall well-being. It is a natural and non-invasive treatment that has been used for centuries.

IV Nutritional Therapy: This therapy delivers vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the diges-

tive system for maximum absorption. It is an effective way to boost immunity, increase energy levels and improve overall health.

NAD+ (NADH): NAD+ is a coenzyme that plays a crucial role in energy production and cellular repair. By increasing NAD+ levels in the body, this therapy can enhance cognitive function, improve metabolism and support overall vitality.

BOA Max 2 Device: Featuring a 24-chamber compression mechanism, this device is used to improve lymphatic drainage, reduce inflammation and promote recovery. It is particularly beneficial for athletes and individuals with chronic pain or circulatory issues.

NanoVi: This device supports cellular repair and regeneration by producing a bio-identical signal that enhances the body’s ability to repair oxidative stress damage. It is a powerful tool for improving overall health and longevity.

THE FUTURE OF WELLNESS

As more individuals seek alternatives to conventional medicine, holistic wellness and biohacking continue to gain popularity. By combining education, support and personalized care, we empower our clients to take control of their health and achieve their wellness goals. Through inno-

vative treatments and a commitment to holistic principles, we offer a pathway to a healthier, more vibrant life.

Holistic wellness is not just about treating symptoms; it’s about addressing the root causes of health issues and promoting long-term well-being. By embracing this approach, individuals can take charge of their health and live their best lives.

QCBN

Tim McGhee, FNP-C and owner of Legendary Total Wellness Center, drawing on his experience in modern medicine and insights from the pandemic’s impact on healthcare choices, embarked on a journey to redefine wellness. His personal success in losing 75 pounds with compound Semaglutide inspired him to establish a weight loss clinic, and he has since expanded his vision by opening a comprehensive wellness center in Prescott Valley. This clinic integrates holistic, naturopathic and modern medical practices, offering advanced therapies like red light therapy, dry salt therapy, PEMF and sauna treatments. Tim’s mission is to make holistic health care both accessible and affordable, with a strong emphasis on overall well-being and patient education. Through his clinic, he aims to empower individuals to take charge of their health, blending the best of traditional and modern approaches for optimal wellness. legendarytotalwellness.com

Understanding Impact Fees

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 the community. Tom and I love talking with our readers. Settle in, enjoy and have fun reading our column this month. Thanks for being such loyal and great readers.

Sandy: Hi Tom, back again and this time our conversation is going to be about impact fees.

Tom: Oh, joy. Our favorite subject.

Sandy: Sure is. I want our readers to understand the effects of impact fees. The good, the bad and the misunderstood.

Tom: Let’s start with a quick primer on what they are. These are added fees that are charged to new residential development at the time the dwelling(s) is permitted. The State of Arizona legislature regulates quite strictly what infrastructure they can be charged for.

Sandy: There are strict rules regarding what collected funds can be used for and how they are calculated.

Tom: The money collected from the new homebuyers can only be applied to infrastructure needs necessitated by growth.

Sandy: Correct. Not only must they be used for specific capital improvements, but those improvements must also have a reasonable relationship between the amount of the fee collected and the project the money is used for. It must also be demonstrated that the new development has necessitated this project.

Tom: An example might be if an existing arterial roadway needs to be

Sandy: We could go on and on with examples, I think our readers get the point.

Tom: Agreed. Perhaps you can tell our readers what kind of dollars we are talking about.

Sandy: Basically, the impact fees currently are $11,650 per residential unit. The proposed increase will take that to $19,754 per residential unit. That is a 70% increase. Perhaps the best way to communicate the fees is by including a table. The fees will vary depending on the water meter size and home square footage.

Tom: That table says it all. I like that is breaks out the fees into their

Not only must they be used for specific capital improvements, but those improvements must also have a reasonable relationship between the amount of the fee collected and the project the money is used for. It must also be demonstrated that the new development has necessitated this project.

most folks is that growth is paying for growth. That couldn’t be further from the truth.

Tom: There are those in elected positions who tout that impact fees do exactly that for political gain. It speaks to the perceptions held by their constituents.

Sandy: Another perception is that developers pay this fee. The reality is that the fees are incorporated into the cost of the home, so the homebuyer is the one paying.

Tom: So, impact fees increase the cost of new homes in Prescott corporate limits. The impact fees imposed by the City of Prescott have zero effect on development in the surrounding towns or county.

Sandy: Right. Development in areas outside of Prescott still has impact on our roads and infrastructure and there is no contribution to address those impacts.

Tom: The YCCA recently engaged a development finance advisory group to provide the Prescott City Council with the likely effects of the sharp increase. Can you share some of the basics of those findings?

Sandy: Certainly. There were three basic points. 1. The price of new homes in Prescott will increase. 2. This increase is likely to lead to fewer new homes being built. 3. The demand for existing homes in Prescott will in-

ronment where folks like our first responders can afford to live in the community they serve. This will be a hindrance to that goal.

Sandy: It sure will. According to Arizona State Statutes, a municipality or county cannot waive the fees for any reason. So, the cost of any new housing will be impacted.

Tom: And so goes the law of unintended consequences. When we look at the reasoning behind impact fees, they make some sense though.

Sandy: The effect growth has on our existing public safety needs and infrastructure is real. I agree that impact fees can play a role in helping offset the cost of growth. My objection is not in the concept, but rather the effect that the sudden 70% increase will have on the marketplace.

Tom: I understand the advisory firm YCCA engages recommends a more gradual increase over three years.

Sandy: Yes. We believe that would more accurately have revenue coincide with the development of fire and police facilities. The city has not yet identified potential sites or started the design process.

Tom: That probably won’t begin in earnest until the results of the sales tax vote are in.

Sandy: That won’t be long from now. It should be said that the amount

be a drop in the bucket compared to the money needed to get us to where we need to be with our infrastructure.

Tom: Impact fees are not supposed to pay for it all; never were, never will. They are a contributor, however. Folks need to know the difference between a political sound bite and what monetary reality is.

Sandy: What I do not understand, Tom, is, Arizona State Statutes indicate that development fees shall result in a beneficial use to the development. Let’s use Forest Trails as an example: A new home in a practically built-out development as of Jan. 1, 2025, will be required to pay the hefty impact fees. How is this benefiting the homeowner? The infrastructure is already in.

Tom: Well, the theory is that the home, while having streets, sewer and water, still is contributing to a population increase that affects fire, police, traffic on collectors and arterials, and generally utilizes services from city sources. QCBN

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

Tom Reilly, Architect, 928-445-8506

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

Beyond Pumpkin Spice: Fall Tips for a Lush Landscape

By Ken Lain

Autumn gardening is a great time to look back on garden successes and disappointments. There’s still plenty of time to do some garden maintenance. Fall gardening takes advantage of cooler temperatures and fewer weeds and insects. Putting the garden to bed is not as hectic as waking it up in the spring. You’ll have time to really see how your plants are doing.

HERE ARE SOME TASKS TO DO NOW, TO MAKE NEXT YEAR’S GARDEN BRIGHTER AND BETTER.

1. Enrich garden beds with Watters Barnyard Manure. Spread a 2-3” inch layer evenly over any exposed soil. Earthworms, along with the winter freeze-thaw cycle, will work this nutrient-rich manure into the soil for you.

2. Collect dried seeds from your flowers, vegetables and herbs. Save these seeds for planting next year’s garden. You might even try to expand your skills and try winter sowing this fall.

3. Clean birdfeeders to get them ready for use. The birds have done a great job of feasting on garden pests and serenading you this year. We are on the migra-

tory path for birds. It amazes me how many different birds visit the feeders through the end of the year.

4. Gather herbs and flowers for drying. Leave some flowers for the birds, but get a head start on your garden clean-up by cutting back plants like hydrangea, lavender and yarrow and bringing them indoors. I can smell the herbal fragrance now.

5. Clean cold frames for winter use. You won’t want to do it when the temperature hovers below freezing. Cleaning it out in the fall makes it more likely you will put it to use in the spring.

6. Winterize your water garden Get ready to turn off the pump and turn on the ice breaker. Don’t forget to cover the water garden with netting to keep falling leaves out and the blue herons from getting in.

7. Keep trees and shrubs well-watered until the ground freezes. They may look dormant, but they’re still alive. If you have a mild, dry winter, continue watering throughout the season. This goes double for trees that were planted this year. A good rule of thumb is to irrigate your landscape with a deep soak at

two-week intervals.

8. Cut back most perennials Definitely cut back diseased perennials and remove all foliage and dispose of it somewhere other than your compost.

9. Clean, sand and oil garden tools before storing them for the winter.

10. Feed the entire yard. This is especially true for young landscapes. Feed everything in the yard with Watters 7-4-4 All Purpose Plant Food. This brings out the fall flowers and autumn

colors. More importantly, your evergreens will maintain their rich green colors through winter and provide better growth next spring.

11. Treat your evergreen pine and spruce with Watters Tree & Shrub Drench. This easy-to-use plant drench keeps the bugs out of your trees and larger evergreens for the year to come.

Now, you have my personal list of autumn garden

tasks. You have plenty of time, but the entire list should be completed before Thanksgiving.

Until next month, I’ll be helping locals grow better gardens here at Watters Garden Center. QCBN

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

Non-Qualified Mortgages Offer a Nontraditional Solution to Homeownership

By Greg Riordan

There are multiple reasons a person may be financially ready to own a home but struggles to qualify. This often involves having an inconsistent or nontraditional income structure, a major credit event or high debt. For this reason, there are non-qualified mortgages to help those who wouldn’t typically meet

the necessary requirements. NonQM loans have their own unique set of criteria, which includes flexible income and credit requirements. In exchange for these adjustments, homebuyers may need to make larger down payments and pay higher interest rates.

A Non-QM loan is a home financing solution for responsible borrowers with unique financial cir-

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Non-QM loans provide a solution to homeownership that those with uncommon circumstances might otherwise not have. The dream of homeownership is achievable with the help of non-qualified mortgages.

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cumstances. It is a flexible home loan covering a variety of consumer needs, as well as an option for those who have recently experienced bankruptcy or foreclosure. A Non-QM loan is available to foreign nationals and may be available for multiple properties. A Non-QM loan helps fill the gap for homebuyers who don’t have the income proof they need to qualify traditionally.

There are a few key differences between qualified and non-qualified mortgages. A qualified mortgage adheres to certain standards set by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). These standards ensure that the borrower can afford the loan. Qualified mortgages also have loan terms not exceeding 30 years. They also require verification of your income and assets.

When it comes to qualified mortgages, lenders must determine whether a borrower can really afford a loan before providing any financing by verifying and documenting parts

of the borrower’s personal finances.

The “ability-to-repay” rule requires a lender to evaluate loan applications based on these eight components:

ƒ Current income/assets

ƒ Current employment status

ƒ Monthly payment for the loan

ƒ Monthly payment on any simultaneous loan secured by the home

ƒ Monthly payment for mortgage-related obligations

ƒ Current debt, alimony and child support

ƒ Monthly debt-to-income ratio or residual income

ƒ Credit history

The process of verifying income for non-qualified mortgages utilizes manual underwriting, allowing borrowers to demonstrate their ability to repay the loan. Documents for this may include bank/investment account statements, 1099s, receipts from rents or leases or other business receivables.

Non-QM loans provide a solution to homeownership that those with uncommon circumstances might otherwise not have. The dream of homeownership is achievable with the help of non-qualified mortgages.

QCBN

Greg Riordan is a Loan Officer with Legacy Mutual Mortgage. For additional information or to get in touch with Greg, visit legacymutual.com/officers/greg-riordan or call 928.427.5156. You may find his office at 325 W Gurley St #102, Prescott, AZ 86301. Greg cares about the people that choose to trust him with the biggest asset in their lives – their home. He will give straight, honest answers with exceptional advice whether you are refinancing your home to pay off debt, lowering your rate, reducing the length of your loan or looking to purchase your first or next dream home. Greg Riordan, NMLS # 832841 | Gardner Financial Services, LTD., dba Legacy Mutual Mortgage, NMLS #278675, an Equal Housing Lender.

Celebrating Advanced Practice Providers at Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center

By Joanne Mack Robertson

You may not realize it, but your care at Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center and Yavapai Regional Medical Group (YRMG) is carefully orchestrated by a team of healthcare providers. Advance Practice Providers (APPs) are vital members of the team who help to create an accessible, efficient and personalized patient experience.

Yavapai Regional is celebrating its APPs, highlighting the essential role they have in delivering high-quality patient care and showcasing their commitment to improving health outcomes.

WHAT ARE ADVANCED PRACTICE PROVIDERS?

YRMG Cardiology Nurse Practitioner

Delyte Nasch explains that APPs are health care professionals who have completed advanced education and training – a master’s degree or higher.

“We have a high level of expertise and collaborate with the physicians, medical assistants and other members of the team,” said Nasch. “We engage with our patients and support physicians in the care of our patients.

At Yavapai Regional, our APPs are typically Nurse Practitioners (NPs) and Physician Assistants (PAs).”

ƒ NPs are registered nurses with a master’s or doctoral degree. They are licensed medical professionals who diagnose conditions, prescribe medications and manage treatment plans.

ƒ PAs are licensed professionals, also with a master’s or doctoral degree, who work collaboratively with physicians and the health care team. They diagnose illnesses, develop treatment plans and perform procedures.

“About 50% of the providers in our family practice and specialty clinics (YRMG) are APPs,” said Nasch, who is the department chair of Advanced Practice Providers for Yavapai Regional Medical Center and YRMG as well as a member of the YRMG leadership council.

WHY ARE APPS IMPORTANT?

ƒ Increased access to care. “It’s widely known that there are not enough physicians, particularly in rural settings like ours,” said Nasch. “APPs increase access to care and decrease the amount of time people wait to see their providers.”

ƒ Holistic approach. APPs often emphasize a holistic approach to patient care. They consider lifestyle, emotional well-being and overall health in addition to medical needs. This approach can lead to more comprehensive and personalized care.

ƒ Cost-effectiveness. APPs help to reduce healthcare costs. Their involvement can decrease the need for more expensive specialist consultations and hospital visits, making the healthcare system more efficient.

ƒ Collaboration and support. APPs work closely with physicians and

other healthcare professionals to provide an improved model of patient care. Their presence allows for better management of patient care and helps physicians in delivering care.

CHOOSING AN ADVANCE PRACTICE PROVIDER CAREER

Many healthcare professionals are increasingly choosing careers as APPs because of the flexibility these roles offer. APPs often enjoy a more balanced work-life schedule compared to traditional medical roles, along with the ability to specialize in areas of personal interest.

“Being an APP gives you the versatility to branch out and learn new specialties. It also allows more autonomy as a decision maker,” said Nasch, who has been an Advance Practice Provider for 17 years. “As an APP, you can be a lifelong learner and do anything you want to do.”

“I worked 22 years as an RN in multiple areas of hospital medicine,” she continued “I chose to transition to being an APP so that I could have increased autonomy while providing high-quality care. As an APP, I’ve been able to expand my practice and my ability to help patients.”

Family Nurse Practitioner Yvette Grijalva had a similar experience.

“I grew up in a family of nurses and was an emergency room nurse for many years,” said Grijalva. “When the opportunity to advance as an FNP was offered, it was the natural progression of my education and practice. As an

degree or higher – who help create an accessible, efficient and personalized patient experience. Courtesy photo

APP in a YRMG family medicine practice, I am supported by a great team of professionals who take pride in what they do. They make it a great place to be.”

AN ASSET TO OUR HOSPITAL, CLINICS, COMMUNITY

The passion that the APPs have for their jobs and their community is evident in their dedication to their patients.

“Knowing that my efforts are helping people in their everyday lives and having the relationships I’ve developed with my patients – these things make going to work every day so rewarding,”

said Grijalva.

Nasch agrees. “APPs are truly filling a need. It’s a benefit for the physicians, the clinics, the hospital, the APPs and for our patients. I’ve been in health care for a total of 40 years, and I feel like I’m at the top of my career. There’s no doubt that it’s sometimes a challenging profession, but I would choose it all over again.”

QCBN

For more information about Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center and its providers, visit DignityHealth.org/YRMC.

Mountain Artists Guild Celebrates 75 Years: Supporting Local Artists and Arts with Gala Reception, Fundraiser

Since its founding on Oct. 28, 1949, the Mountain Artists Guild (The Guild) has been instrumental in supporting Prescott artists and helping them improve their skills. Well known for the role it played in George Phippen’s art career (The Phippen Museum), The Guild became a creative arts and social hub, shaping Prescott as a cultural and visual arts center.

“George Phippen, as one of the original founders of The Guild, and countless others in the past 75 years, have honed their skills through their membership in The Guild,” said Guild Board Member Donald Hildreth.

75TH ANNIVERSARY GALA CELEBRATION, FUNDRAISER

“To mark this significant milestone, we are excited to host our 75th Anniversary Gala Celebration and Fundraiser, 5-7 p.m., Friday, Oct. 18, featuring a show of traditional and contemporary art that celebrates our culturally diverse heritage, environment and community.

Beginning at $85, tickets include a drink coupon with appetizers, and can be purchased on Mountain Artists Guild’s website or its donation site at https://donorbox.org/events/656548.

Sarah Phippen is the guest speaker and space is limited, so we encourage you to register today,” said The Guild Treasurer Dawn Zintel. “Proceeds from ticket sales, sponsors and the silent auction will support our capital campaign to refresh our building (classrooms, galleries and library), as well as replace our parking lot. These projects will require approximately $200,000 to $250,000. As we proudly celebrate our 75th anniversary, we reach out to our community for support to continue our mission at 228 N. Alarcon Street.”

LONGTIME SUPPORTER OF PRESCOTT ARTS

As a membership-driven organization, for decades, The Guild has supported and educated artists of all ages and awarded scholarships to talented high school students pursuing art

in college. Understanding the crucial role of creativity in child development, The Guild has offered after-school and summer art programs since the early 2000s. More recently, in collaboration with the Prescott Veterans Administration, The Guild began offering Veterans Art classes in 2021, recognizing the therapeutic power of art for those who have served.

The Mountain Artists Guild (The Guild) is Prescott’s only arts-focused 501(c)3 that is member-based and run. Beginning with 25 members, including founder George Phippen, and now numbering more than 200, The Guild is dedicated to fostering the education and appreciation of the visual arts in Yavapai County, through its galleries, classrooms and independent artist studios at its home at 228 N. Alarcon St., in Prescott. QCBN

For more information, visit mountainartistsguild.org.

APPs are health care professionals who have completed advanced education and training – a master’s

The Mountain Artists Guild is embarking on a capital campaign with the 75th Anniversary Gala Celebration, Oct. 18. Photos courtesy of Mary Jo Arnold

Exploring the Leisure, Hospitality and Tourism Industry in Yavapai County

By Teri Drew

Yavapai County’s leisure, hospitality and tourism sectors are vital contributors to the local economy, offering diverse employment opportunities. With renowned destinations like Sedona’s iconic red rocks, Prescott’s historic culture, Jerome’s artistic charm and numerous outdoor attractions, the county consistently draws a large number of visitors each year. This steady influx of tourists fuels the demand for a skilled workforce in areas such as hotels, restaurants, resorts and travel services. According to the Census Bureau, the leisure and hospitality industry is the No. 3 employment sector in Yavapai County.

A CULINARY AND HOSPITALITY HAVEN IN YAVAPAI COUNTY

Yavapai County is celebrated as a culinary and hospitality haven, providing ample opportunities for individuals to explore its rich blend of hospitality and culinary culture. Nestled within the scenic landscapes of the county’s natural beauty, this area offers a unique combination of outdoor activities and an ever-grow-

ing culinary scene.

From farm-to-table restaurants to eclectic cafes, Yavapai County showcases a diverse range of dining options that celebrate local ingredients and innovative cooking techniques. Residents and visitors alike can savor dishes crafted by talented local chefs, sample artisanal creations at farmers markets, and enjoy craft beverages from nearby wineries and breweries. This thriving culinary culture creates a rich environment for both hospitality professionals and food enthusiasts.

YAVAPAI COUNTY’S GOLDEN PLATE AWARD

In 2023, the county’s food service industry reached a significant milestone when 283 local food establishments earned the prestigious Golden Plate Award. This recognition, awarded by Yavapai County’s Community Health Services, highlights excellence in food safety and sanitation, further affirming the region’s commitment to maintaining high standards in its culinary and hospitality sectors.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN YAVAPAI COUNTY’S TOURISM

// MAYOR’S ADDRESS

ECONOMY

Yavapai County’s tourism-driven economy offers numerous employment opportunities across a variety of sectors, including:

ƒ Hotel and Resort Staff: Front desk agents, housekeeping, maintenance and management roles.

ƒ Culinary and Restaurant Services: Chefs, kitchen staff, servers and managers in establishments recognized for their culinary innovation and commitment to food safety.

ƒ Event and Tourism Coordination: Tour guides, event planners and travel agents who create exceptional experiences for visitors.

ƒ Outdoor Recreation and Parks: Rangers, outdoor adventure guides and park services that help tourists explore the natural wonders of the county.

With its dynamic tourism sector, celebrated culinary scene and dedication to excellence in hospitality, Yavapai County offers exciting opportunities for job seekers. Whether you’re beginning your career or looking to advance in the leisure, hospitality and tourism industries, Yavapai

// BY PHIL GOODE

County provides a fertile ground for success. Its combination of outdoor adventure, innovative culinary offerings and strong job prospects makes it a prime destination for professionals and visitors alike. QCBN

NACOG - Economic and Workforce Development, in conjunction with the Prescott Area Hospitality Collective, managed by major hotel and restaurant owners/operators and SCORE, is actively working to connect job seekers with opportunities in this growing sector, ensuring that the local workforce is equipped to thrive in Yavapai County’s expanding leisure, hospitality and tourism industries. Contact us at 928-778-1422 to connect with these major employers for exciting careers.

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

Local Firefighters Providing Opportunities to Learn About Wildland Fire Prevention

We can all agree that we live a remarkable and beautiful place. Our mountains and forests are a big part of our quality of life in the Prescott area, to be sure. Our proximity to this natural beauty also places us in an area at risk for wildland fire. Prescott Fire Department, Prescott National Forest and cooperating agencies are doing their best to keep us safe by managing the forest to help reduce the risk of a

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devastating wildfire. These agencies are also providing opportunities for citizens to learn more about our environment, how to mitigate risks for our homes and to understand what our local agencies are doing to keep us safe.

Recently, Prescott Fire Department named Conrad Jackson as the wildfire risk manager. His job, in part, is to educate the public about making their homes safer. Jackson wrote a series of

great articles earlier this year, talking about what the city is doing, in conjunction with our partner agencies, to become a Fire Adapted Community and how to make your home safer from the threat of wildfire.

Recently, all of these articles were published together in the Be Firewise booklet, jointly published in coordination with the Yavapai County Contractors Association (YCCA) and the Daily Courier. This booklet is available at Prescott City Hall, at the YCCA offices and online on the city website.

We live in a beautiful location that interacts closely with our forests and with an increased risk for wildfire. We are fortunate to have several agencies providing opportunities to learn more about wildland fire and our role in helping to reduce the risk.

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Jackson will be speaking on the topic of Fire Adaptive Communities at 12:30 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 20, at the Highlands Center for Natural History. Through his work with the community, Jackson has evidence that insurance companies respond when citizens and businesses reduce risk factors on their properties. So, your individual efforts can have a direct impact on maintaining your homeowner’s coverage and premium rates, while making our entire community safer.

Prescott National Forest is also educating the public through the Prescribed Fire Miniseries. It will take place at the Highlands Center for Natural History at 9 a.m., Thursdays, Oct. 3, 10, 17 and 24. This is a great way to learn about forestry management and why prescribed fire is an important part of forest management. The goal is to help the community to learn more about why and how the Forest Service uses fire as a tool for land management. This includes many considerations that take place during the planning process prior to doing any ignitions – for example, working with local partners, landowners, stakeholders, specialists from within the Forest Service and other agencies needed to coordinate this work on public lands. To register for the classes, go to www.highlandscenter.org/adult-programs.

Prescott National Forest also will be sharing this information at upcoming meetings with area stakeholders on the Prescott National Forest Facebook

page and through the KYCA radio station.

I would be remiss if I did not mention Yavapai Firewise (aka Prescott Area Wildland Urban Interface Commission). They are another ongoing resource for wildland fire awareness. Yavapai Firewise has a very informative website, YavapaiFirewise. org, where you can learn more about wildfire safety and connect with others who want to learn more. They also appear at local events and make presentations to the public.

We live in a beautiful location that interacts closely with our forests and with an increased risk for wildfire. We are fortunate to have several agencies providing opportunities to learn more about wildland fire and our role in helping to reduce the risk.

To learn more about Conrad Jackson’s role and how he is educating the public, give him a call at 928-777-1700, ext. 7065. Phil Goode is the mayor of Prescott.

Discussing Charitable Giving Regarding Non-Cash Assets

By Lisa Sahady

According to a 2018 study by U.S. Trust, 78% of professional advisors say that discussing philanthropy with their clients is good for their business. Both advisors and clients agree that these discussions deepen relationships, including relationships with the extended family, and aid in establishing new business. This same study suggests that 43% of clients feel it is important

to involve children and grandchildren in family discussions about charitable giving. Both measures have trended upward since 2013. When discussing meaningful charitable activity, it’s important to explore the option of giving non-cash assets. Cash, check and credit card gifts are popular options for donating, but they offer limited tax benefits – particularly when making larger gifts. When someone donates highly appreciated non-cash assets prior

to liquidation, they can maximize charitable tax benefits and be eligible to receive an income tax deduction, subject to AGI limitations, and eliminate capital gains tax on the gifted portion. This lowers their tax burden while increasing the amount available to support community needs.

Estimates suggest that more than 90% of wealth is held in assets other than cash, representing an immense potential for charitable impact.

Popular types of non-cash gift types include:

ƒ Stocks, bonds and mutual funds

ƒ Business interests

ƒ Real estate

When someone donates highly appreciated non-cash assets prior to liquidation, they can maximize charitable tax benefits and be eligible to receive an income tax deduction, subject to AGI limitations, and eliminate capital gains tax on the gifted portion. This lowers their tax burden while increasing the amount available to support community needs.

ƒ Life estate

ƒ Life insurance policies

ƒ Retirement account assets

ƒ Charitable trusts and annuities

ƒ Virtual currency

Before we know it, the end of 2024 will be here. This season represents an especially crucial time for advisors to discuss year-end giving with clients and how non-cash assets might fit into that plan.

When advisors have philanthropic

conversations with their clients, reminding them of the array of benefits that exist when giving non-cash assets is imperative:

ƒ Tax Benefits: Eliminate capital gains taxes on highly appreciated assets to lower your tax burden while increasing the amount available to support your community.

ƒ Charitable Deduction: Gifted assets are eligible for charitable income tax deductions at fair market value in the year when you make the gift.

ƒ Long-Term Giving: If you choose to give through a community foundation, once the gift is liquidated, proceeds of non-cash gifts can be invested and endowed, providing more time for you to make key charitable decisions.

Not only will these types of discussions enhance your relationship with current clients and build new business, but they will also maximize tax benefits for the client while increasing the overall donated amount

that will benefit communities today and in the future.

Community foundations can be resources for advisors who are looking to deepen their relationships with their clients. Partnering with them can augment an advisor’s relationships by delivering expert charitable advice and customized personal giving solutions for clients, while benefiting our communities for generations. The advisor remains the expert on financial/wealth management, while community foundations support them and their clients to make informed decisions about charitable giving. QCBN

For more information on how you can add value to your client relationships with the help of a community foundation, visit azfoundation.org/advisors, or call one of our offices serving Northern Arizona: ACF of Yavapai County at 928-583-7815; ACF of Sedona at 928-399-7218; or ACF of Flagstaff at 928-526-1956.

Lisa Sahady is the regional director of the Arizona Community Foundation of Yavapai County.

Are You Destroying Your Direct Mail ROI?

By Shawn Powers

If you are launching a new marketing effort, keep a close eye on your return on investment (ROI) to ensure you are maximizing your spend. Larger campaigns can be costly, so if you’re not seeing numbers that indicate a positive impact for your business, you’ll understandably have some concerns.

Whether you’re in the middle of planning a campaign or if you have previously launched one with lackluster results, you should take the time to examine your collateral to see where you can improve. Sometimes, you’ve simply forgotten a crucial part of the process – but it could also mean that you’re doing too much. Consider these pitfalls when looking at your direct mail efforts:

1. YOU’RE MAIL-SPLAINING

Overcomplicating your message can have the opposite effect on your business than what you intended. You know the ins and outs of every little thing in your business, but your audience doesn’t and usually doesn’t need to. Becoming so granular that your reader doesn’t understand what you’re offering (let alone why they would need it) is something to be avoided. Instead, shoot to keep things

simple and straightforward.

2. SAYING TOO MUCH WITHOUT SAYING ANYTHING

Getting too deep into the weeds with marketing-speak can cause you to stop saying anything meaningful. Leaning too much into extraneous “fluff” with your writing will make it seem like you’re rambling on and on. Try to keep things concise while remaining punchy and active with your marketing language.

3. IT’S TOO SELF-CENTERED

Do your mailers add value like educational content or discounts? If the language used is too focused on yourself, it becomes obvious that you’re not placing your customers first. Identify the most common pain points and address them by highlighting how you can help and serve your audience.

4. THERE’S NO CALL TO ACTION When launching a campaign, you have a goal in mind, whether it’s increased sales, greater foot traffic, more online orders or something else.

If your mailers don’t contain a call to action that aligns with that goal, it’ll quickly become that much harder to achieve. Make sure you write your message with that goal in mind to

drive your customers to engage the way you want them to.

5. YOU FORGOT YOUR CONTACT INFO

Sure, many people will simply go online and search for a company that they see and are engaged with – but you still need to include the most pertinent information about your business in your mailers. How do you want your customers to get in touch with you? Whether it’s through email, a phone call or your social media channels, make sure your preferred contact is made clear.

6. MEDIOCRE MEDIA

If your imagery, graphics and photos are mediocre, then your mailers won’t be able to do you any justice. Working with a strong team of creatives to ensure that your direct mail pieces are visually appealing is critical to the success of your campaign. If it doesn’t stand out in someone’s mailbox, it won’t make the impression you want. You’ll also want to ensure that your mailers adhere to your existing brand standards and aren’t creating inconsistencies across your other marketing efforts. Little mistakes can quickly add up and can create major impacts on your ROI. QCBN

Shawn Powers is the president and owner of Allegra Marketing-Print-Mail. He can be reached at Shawn@AllegraPrescott.com.

For more information, visit www.AllegraPrescott.com.

Quad Cities Classrooms Receive Supply Kits, Funds from Findlay Subaru

As part of the Subaru Loves Learning initiative in collaboration with AdoptAClassroom.org, Findlay Subaru Prescott is surprising students in the Quad Cities with school supplies and more.

Twenty-five teachers and their classrooms in Yavapai County have received kits and $500 grants to purchase additional needed supplies. The funding will allow teachers to determine what supplies they need the most.

In a news release, Findlay Subaru stated that the company believes all students deserve

an equal and fair opportunity for a quality education. According to AdoptAClassroom.org, 92% of teachers across the country have students whose families cannot afford to purchase any school supplies for their children.

With support from Findlay Subaru, students in Prescott, Prescott Valley, Chino Valley, Cottonwood, Rimrock, Skull Valley, Kirkland, Clarkdale, Camp Verde, Sedona, Bagdad, Seligman, Ash Fork and Paulden will have access to the tools and resources. QCBN

Prescott Artists Paint with Grand Inspiration

By V. Ronnie Tierney, QCBN

Proving once again that the Grand Canyon is the perfect place for artists to come and fill their canvases with the inspirational colors, shapes and shadows of this world wonder, Grand Canyon Conservancy (GCC), the nonprofit to the Grand Canyon National Park Service, hosted its 16th Celebration of Art fundraiser (COA) in September.

Twenty-three artists from all over the Southwest, Oregon and New York spent 10 days painting from various points along the rim of the Grand Canyon.

“This is my second year attending and it’s one of my favorite places to paint,” said Prescott Artist Russell Johnson. “To be able to participate in a premiere event that supports a really great cause is a joy to be a part of. The event was organized really well and GCC is wonderful. They did a really good job of taking care of us. It’s also really nice to connect with other artists and see their impressions of the Grand Canyon through their eyes.”

Proceeds from the sales of the artwork during Celebration of Art support a fund for a dedicated art and exhibition venue at Grand Canyon National Park.

“This year’s Celebration of Art is extra special because we’ve finally identified a location for an

art and exhibition venue at the South Rim! For 16 years, the Grand Canyon Conservancy has been raising funds for this venue through this event and now we have worked with the park towards making the venue a reality. This is the perfect spot as the space was originally an exhibit hall when it opened in 1957,” said Mindy Riesenberg, GCC chief communications officer. The location will be at Park Headquarters.

A total of four Prescott artists attended the event.

“This is my ninth year attending COA and the staff and volunteers did an excellent job. Not an easy task organizing us artists and putting this together,” said Prescott artist Robert Goldman. “I really enjoyed spending time with the other artists and interacting with them. To be able to stay there for 10 days showcased the immenseness of the Grand Canyon and the changing weather and I really got a full picture.”

“This was my first time attending and I really enjoyed it.  It kept me busy!  Although we had a little wind and cold, it all worked out well and it was so nice meeting other artists,” said Prescott artist G. Eric Slayton.

The Celebration of Art Exhibition and Sale is open to the public at Kolb Studio through Jan. 20, 2025. Art may also be purchased online at www.grandcanyon.org. QCBN

Findlay Subaru Prescott General Manager Jason Jenkins made the donation official with Yavapai County Schools Superintendent Tim Carter at the dealership on Aug. 28. Courtesy photo

Prescott Findlay Subaru Marketing Director Kara Hartman and Director of First Impressions Taire Eggers handed boxes of school supplies to teachers to help with needs in the classroom during the Subaru Loves Learning event. Courtesy photo

Prescott artist Robert Goldman marked his ninth year at the Celebration of Art fundraising event. “To be able to stay there for 10 days showcased the immenseness of the Grand Canyon and the changing weather, and I really got a full picture.”

Photos by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

Prescott Valley artist Russell Johnson, attending for the second time, enjoyed connecting with other artists “and seeing their impressions of the Grand Canyon through their eyes.”

Tracing the History and Evolution of Engagement Rings: From Ancient Rome to Modern Times

By Jim Carlisto

Engagement rings, symbols of love and commitment, have a rich history that spans thousands of years. From ancient traditions to modern trends, the evolution of these iconic pieces of jewelry reflects changing social values, artistic influences and cultural significance. Today, engagement rings are more diverse than ever, representing both personal style and timeless tradition.

The concept of an engagement ring dates back to ancient Rome. Roman brides-to-be were given rings made of iron to signify a binding contract between the couple. These rings were simple, often unadorned and were worn on the fourth finger of the left hand – a tradition that persists today. The Romans believed that the “vena amoris” or “vein of love” ran directly from this finger to the heart, making it the ideal spot for a symbol of eternal love.

As time progressed, the materials used in engagement rings became more precious. In the Middle Ages, European nobility began to use gold and gemstones in their rings. A

notable example is the ring given by Archduke Maximilian of Austria to Mary of Burgundy in 1477, widely regarded as the first recorded instance of a diamond engagement ring. This event marked the beginning of a tradition that would eventually become synonymous with engagement.

Throughout the centuries, engagement ring designs have evolved in response to changing tastes and artistic movements. In the Renaissance, rings became more elaborate, often featuring intricate engravings and multiple gemstones. During the Victorian era (1837-1901), rings were adorned with diamonds, rubies and sapphires, often arranged in romantic motifs such as hearts, flowers and bows. The use of colored gemstones was particularly popular, with each stone carrying its own symbolism—diamonds for purity, rubies for passion and sapphires for loyalty.

The Edwardian era (1901-1910) introduced even more opulence, with rings designed to showcase filigree work, lace-like patterns and intricate details. Platinum became the metal of choice for its strength and ability to hold delicate designs. During

this period, the use of diamonds in engagement rings became more prevalent, influenced by the discovery of diamond mines in South Africa.

The Art Deco period of the 1920s and 1930s saw a shift towards bold geometric designs, with rings featuring angular lines, vibrant colored stones, and contrasting materials. This era celebrated modernity and innovation, with rings often reflecting the glamour and exuberance of the Roaring Twenties.

Engagement rings have held various meanings across cultures, each imbuing the ring with unique symbolism. In ancient Egypt, rings made from braided reeds were exchanged as symbols of eternity, their circular shape representing endless love. In Jewish tradition, the bride’s ring is often a simple band, reflecting the value of humility and the unbroken bond of marriage. In Irish culture, the Claddagh ring, featuring two hands holding a heart topped with a crown, symbolizes love, loyalty and friendship.

In contemporary Western culture, the diamond solitaire ring remains the most iconic engagement ring

style, thanks in part to De Beers’ famous 1947 slogan, “A Diamond is Forever.” This marketing campaign solidified diamonds as the ultimate symbol of love and commitment, leading to their dominance in the engagement ring market.

Today, engagement rings continue to evolve, with couples increasingly seeking designs that reflect their personal values and style. Sustainable and ethically sourced materials have gained popularity, as more consumers consider the environmental and social impact of their purchases. Lab-grown diamonds, which offer an eco-friendly alternative to mined stones, are becoming a favored choice for many.

In terms of design, vintage-inspired rings are making a comeback, with Art Deco, Victorian and Edwardian styles being reimagined for the modern bride. Customization is also on the rise, with many couples opting for bespoke rings that incorporate meaningful symbols, unique gemstones or even family heirlooms.

Non-traditional stones

like emeralds, morganites and black diamonds are trending, as are unconventional settings such as bezel or east-west orientations. These contemporary choices allow couples to express their individuality while still honoring the timeless tradition of the engagement ring.

As engagement rings continue to evolve, they remain enduring symbols of love, commitment and the unique journey that each couple embarks on together. From ancient Rome to the present day, the history and significance of engagement rings reflect the ever-changing landscape of love and tradition. QCBN

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

would know,” she said. “Most of the locals wander through there at some point in the day just to catch up or share news. What I love about Jim is that he is so welcoming, charming and such a sweet man. But also, he has a great eye and knows the authenticity of his jewelry, rugs and Western and Native American art. I’ve purchased several pieces of jewelry there.”

Andrus specialized in Native American bracelets, earrings, squash blossoms, rugs and art from the 1960s and 1970s. “We carry a room full of Navajo rugs and feature showcases of vintage silver and turquoise jewelry,” he said. “I prefer to outright purchase everything rather than consign items in the store.”

friendly, and his prices are very fair. I would say this is the best-kept secret in Rimrock. I purchased a gold ring for my granddaughter and some silver Navajo earrings.”

“Jim is honest, thoughtful and respects everyone,” said Bill Hancock, a sales associate at the trading post. “He has a buying talent like no one else I’ve ever known. When I open the store in the mornings, there’s always a crazy surprise. One day I walked in and there was a five-foot Chinese drum. Another time, an 80-yearold fender was in the yard. It’s truly amazing what he buys. and we have repeat customers from all over the country.”

ADVICE FOR MY YOUNGER SELF

I should have taken the steps to become an entrepreneur earlier in my life. I started this at 59, so if you’re not happy in your job or life, it’s never too late to change. I love what I do now for the first time. I love being an entrepreneur.

MY SUPERPOWER

“Different things happen every day and I never know what to expect. The cool thing is I get to meet people from all over the world – Italy, France, Argentina – and it’s so fun to chat with them.”

Jokingly, Kristy Parr, a retired speech pathologist and local resident, says Andrus is the “unofficial mayor of Rimrock.”

“If there’s something happening in Rimrock, Jim is the person who

He calls the front yard of the trading post an introduction to a world of “if you look hard enough, you’ll find something you need.” Just outside the front gate is a horse trough that can double as a planter. Also in the yard, treasure hunters find outdoor art and supplies. Country artifacts, furniture, gadgets, lamps, vases, baskets and so much more adorn the space from the front porch on into the rooms. Andrus also has an international room with goods and chattels from around the world.

“This is a diamond in the rough,” said Mary Fischer, a visitor from Nevada City, California. “Jim is very

Andrus is married to XiaXia and has two adult children. Currently, he is in the process of building a log cabin on the 13 acres he and his wife own.

FAVORITE VACATION SPOT

I love to visit Catalina Island and go fishing with friends. That is my favorite getaway. I love the remoteness.

WHO I ADMIRE

I admire Billy Graham for his boldness and compassion for people. Our world is so fragmented and divided; I wish he were in the modern world. People believed in his message, and he changed the world.

Being able to turn off the television and not subject myself to the bad news out there. I tell my friends, “If you want to have peace, tune out and get back to the things that give us peace such as raising animals, gardening and pets.” For me it’s just tuning out the craziness of the world and finding peace in an agricultural lifestyle.

LAST TIME I FELT NOSTALGIC

Just the other day when I was filling the cows’ water trough. I remembered when I used to do this with my dad. It made me feel younger. QCBN

Jim’s Trading Post is located at 2115 E. Beaver Creek Road in Rimrock. It is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., daily. For more information, call 928-554-5526.

another area in which she strove to learn as much as she could, and her love for the stage has continued.

She has acted in many Yavapai College productions, including “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “Hello Dolly” with pop legend Toni Tennille, and “Singin’ in the Rain.” She recently auditioned for the college’s upcoming production of “Fiddler on the Roof.” She has produced murder-mystery plays for Prescott Valley organizations and performed with the Boys and Girls Club of Central Arizona’s Dancing for the Stars.

Uhl’s love for learning and excellence has never wavered and she has applied those qualities to her careers and volunteer service. She earned an associate of arts degree in administration of justice from East Los Angeles College and graduated from the Institute of Organizational Management. She earned the Accredited Chamber Executive designation from the Western Association of Chamber Executives four times. She also graduated Project CENTRL, a rural Arizona leadership initiative, and completed the Prescott Area Leadership development program, Prescott Valley Citizens and Citizen’s Police Academies, and Central Arizona Fire & Medical Authority’s Fire Ops 101 program. She was voted the 2017 Prescott Area Leadership Woman of the Year.

In addition, Uhl chaired the Ari-

Uhl volunteers for a number of nonprofit organizations and is a strong advocate for yearly mammograms for women. “I’m just a normal person whose opportunities put me in places where I could make a difference,” she said. Photos courtesy of Blushing Cactus

zona Chamber Executives and on a national level, served on the Board of Trustees for the Institute of Organizational Management with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

She also has approached her volunteer endeavors with passion, serving as the Yavapai College Foundation president, on the board of the Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center, in the Prescott Valley Early Bird Lions Club, the Prescott Valley Police Foundation, and as co-founder of the Humboldt Education Founda-

tion. She has volunteered with People Who Care, Habitat for Humanity, PV Friends of the Library, PV Historical Society, Highlands Center for Natural History, Prescott Area Shelter Services, Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters and Boys and Girls Club of Central Arizona.

A cancer survivor, Uhl approached that challenge like she has all of the others in her life. In 2018, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Thanks to early detection, she underwent treatment and has now been can-

cer-free for more than six years. She has become a strong advocate for yearly mammograms for all women.

She volunteers for Prescott Frontier Days - Tough Enough to Wear Pink events.

“I’m just a normal person whose opportunities put me in places where I could make a difference. I have the same problems as other people. I’ve failed and I can flame out. But that hasn’t kept me from trying something new,” she said. “I’m just who I am. I want to leave the world a better place

than it is, and I want people to feel empowered because they were a part of my life. When I see someone grow and find themselves, that’s magic to me.” QCBN

JIM’S TRADING POST

Jim’s Trading Post showcases unusual finds from around the world.

Photo by V. Ronnie Tierney, Fresh Focuses Photography

MARNIE UHL continued from page 3

As a community builder and mentor, Marnie Uhl strives to creates opportunities for others and celebrate successes at events such as the popular annual International Women’s Day Luncheon.

Flag Store’s Main Product Revered, Never Out of Style

By Peter Corbett, QCBN

Robert Newman has the kind of store that attracts vexillologists, that is, people who study flags. It also appeals to just good, patriotic Prescottonians and Americans.

Newman owns Flags Galore and More just off State Route 69 at Diamond Drive in between Prescott and Prescott Valley.

The store sells flags of all stars, stripes and colors: American, Arizona, other states and nations, military branches and sports teams.

A 3-by-5-foot polyester American flag, made in the United States, costs $45. Go big with a 30-by-60-foot version of Old Glory, the kind favored by car dealerships, for about $2,500.

U.S. Marine and Army flags are the most popular military flags at Flags Galore, Newman said.

“Prescott has a lot of veterans who are proud of their service and want to display their flag,” he said.

The flag business is steady, with a revered product that seemingly never goes out of style.

Sales pick up each year around Memorial Day, Flag Day, Independence Day, Labor Day and Veterans Day, Newman said.

Flags Galore also sells, installs and repairs flagpoles. That can include

adding solar-powered lights to illuminate flags after dark. Flagpoles start at $129.99 and come in three standard sizes — 12, 18 or 22 feet.

Newman, 45, and his wife, Melissa, acquired Flags Galore and More in 2019. But the flag store was in business for about 20 years under two previous owners. It closed for about a month in spring 2020 because of COVID-19 but still managed online sales during that time.

Since he’s had it, Newman said he has added a lot of America-themed merchandise beyond flags. The tworoom store is stocked with windsocks, coffee cups, military-branch hats, stickers, refrigerator magnets, car flags and front-end license plates. It also features patriotic jewelry and belt buckles.

Business has been growing, Newman said, in part because Flags Galore has limited competition from big-box and other small retailers. He has one of the only brick-and-mortar flag stores in Northern Arizona.

Newman also owns Air-A-Zona Flag Co. in Mesa, one of the few flag stores in metro Phoenix. Each of his two stores has three employees. Flags typically last a year or more, depending on whether they are left out in harsh weather and other factors, he said.

In Arizona, state law dictates that homeowners associations cannot prohibit the installation of a flagpole in a resident’s front or back yard and must allow the display of up to two

flags. That includes an American flag, military branch flag, Arizona flag, Arizona Indian nation flag, Gadsden flag, first responder flag, Blue Star or Gold Star service flags and any

historic version of the American flag. Flagstaffs can only be as tall as a resident’s rooftop. QCBN

AZ Phil Community Lecture Series Features Steinway Artist James D’León

By Cynthia Jones

Arizona Philharmonic (AZ Phil) welcomes Prescott resident and internationally renowned Steinway artist James D’León as host of the second Community Lecture Series Saturday, Oct. 5, entitled “Hearing Colors and Feeling Sounds: A Musical Journey.” The interactive lecture takes place on the stage at Ruth Street Theater, 11 a.m.-12 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 5.

“Did you ever stop to notice what senses are being affected when you listen to music? Although it seems like we simply sit, watch and listen to a musical performance, there is much more going on, both consciously and subconsciously,” said presenter James D’León.

“In this class, join Prescott’s international Steinway artist James D’León as he takes you on a musical journey in which he talks about the basics of synesthesia (the ability of the brain to route sensory information through multiple unrelated senses) and hones your skills through various musical examples performed on the piano. You will not only step into a fascinating

world where sounds will ignite other senses, but you will also be able to apply these skills at your next concert experience,” said AZ Phil Executive Director Abby Coffey.

Tickets are $12 for adults and $5 for children and are available at AZPhil.org or by calling 855-3216724. The presentation is also open to Yavapai College OLLI members at a discount, visit YC.edu for more information.

ABOUT JAMES D’LEÓN

Born in South Korea into a musical family, D’León began the piano at the age of 4 and performed his first recital at the age of 5. After receiving early piano training from his mother (his parents retired to Prescott Valley, which is how he came to settle here), he was awarded a full scholarship to the San Francisco Conservatory of Music as a pre-college student. As the winner of both the San Francisco Symphony and the Palo Alto Chamber Orchestra competitions, he performed the Grieg Piano Concerto and Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 23 at age 12. He then relocated to Pennsylvania where he honed his technique and performance skills. By age 14, he

had won every regional competition, culminating in his debut performance of the Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto No. 2 with the Philadelphia Orchestra.

In addition, D’León and Friends are performing at 3 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 6, at the Ruth Street Theater.

Ticket information, sponsorship and volunteer opportunities can be found at AZPhil.org or on Facebook.

QCBN

Founded in 2018, Arizona Philharmonic (AZ Phil) is Prescott’s only professional orchestra focused on classical music, presenting large and small concerts that engage and inspire listeners. Beginning its seventh season in 2024-25, 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 nonprofit organization.

Cynthia Jones is the marketing manager for Arizona Philharmonic.

Robert Newman owns and operates Flags Galore and More in Prescott with his wife, Melissa. Photo by Peter Corbett

Steinway artist James D’León is shown here being interviewed by AZ Phil volunteers.

Courtesy photo

Support Local: Shop Prescott This Holiday Season

By Sheri Heiney

As the Official Arizona Christmas City, Prescott is known for its festive spirit, twinkling lights and community warmth. This holiday season, we encourage you to celebrate our unique charm by shopping local and supporting the brick-and-mortar businesses that make Prescott special.

Local businesses are the heartbeat of our community. They provide

character to our historic downtown and offer personalized service that you won’t find elsewhere. From handcrafted goods to one-of-a-kind gifts, Prescott’s local shops offer a shopping experience filled with quality and authenticity. Whether you’re browsing for the perfect holiday present, stocking up on winter essentials or simply enjoying the Christmas atmosphere, shopping local helps keep our community thriving.

When you shop in Prescott, you’re

doing more than just purchasing a product. You’re investing in the local economy, creating jobs and helping business owners who live, work and contribute to our community. Studies show that for every dollar spent at a local business, a significant portion stays in the local economy, supporting not only that business but also other local services and suppliers. This multiplier effect helps our town grow and flourish. Additionally, local businesses

often give back to the community, whether through donations, sponsorships or participating in local events. Many are involved in the very holiday events we cherish, such as the Courthouse Lighting and the Annual Christmas Parade. By supporting them, you’re contributing to the vibrancy of Prescott’s holiday celebrations.

We invite you to embrace the spirit of the season by shopping in the heart of Arizona’s Christmas City. Let’s come together to support our local businesses and ensure that Prescott continues to shine brightly for generations to come.

Happy Holidays and thank you for shopping local! QCBN

Shopping local is also more sustainable. It reduces the environmental impact of shipping and packaging associated with online purchases and mass retailers. Prescott businesses often feature locally made products, reducing your carbon footprint while supporting artisans and craftspeople in our region.

This year, as you prepare for the holiday season, take a moment to explore Prescott’s diverse selection of stores, from boutiques and art galleries to cozy cafés and specialty shops. Whether you’re visiting historic Whiskey Row or strolling through our charming side streets, you’ll find plenty of treasures and delightful holiday finds.

Shopping local is also more sustainable. It reduces the environmental impact of shipping and packaging associated with online purchases and mass retailers. Prescott busi nesses often feature locally made products, reducing your carbon footprint while supporting artisans and craftspeople in our region.

Thursday, October 3rd at 4pm Touchmark at the Ranch

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

3180 Touchmark Blvd. Prescott , AZ 86301

Sat - Sun, October 5th & 6th

9am to 5pm (4pm Sunday)

Fall Fest in the Park Arts & Crafts Show

Yavapai County Courthouse Plaza

120 S. Cortez Street Prescott, AZ 86303

Thursday, October 10th at 8am

Prescott Business Awards

Prescott Resort and Conference Center

1500 E State Route 69 Prescott, AZ 86301

Thursday, October 10th at 4pm

Mountain Artists Guild

75th Anniversary

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

228 N. Alcorn St Prescott, AZ 86301

For more information about the Prescott Chamber of Commerce, please visit prescott.org or call us at 928-445-2000 or 1-800-266-7534, or stop by the Visitor Information Center located at 117 W. Goodwin Street, Prescott, AZ 86303.

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

October Chamber Events

Thursday, October 15th at 4pm Club Pilates

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Pine Ridge Marketplace

3250 Gateway Blvd #210 Prescott, AZ 86303

Thursday, October 17th at 5pm

Networking@Nite Business Mixer & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Residence Inn by Marriott 3599 Lee Cir. Prescott, AZ 86301

Tuesday, October 22nd at 4pm Luxelocker

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony 2615 Deep Well Ranch Rd Prescott, AZ 86301

Thursday, October 24th at 4pm

The Spice and Tea Exchange

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony 101 E. Gurley St. Prescott, AZ 86303

Tuesday, October 29th at 8:30am Chamber 101

Maximize Your Membership

Prescott Chamber of Commerce

117 W. Goodwin Street Prescott, AZ 86303

Thursday, October 31st at 10am

We Treat Our Members

Open House

Prescott Chamber of Commerce

117 W. Goodwin Street Prescott, AZ 86303

Mission” stems from her belief that “the world desperately needs people of character to step out and speak up.” However, she says, fear is the biggest obstacle that holds people back.

“There’s the fear of jumping into something they don’t know, something they’ve never done before. They don’t feel confident, they don’t have the experience and expertise to back that up. And even if they feel it’s their mission in life or their passion, they’re hesitant to jump in.”

In her book, she shares success stories of some individuals she has coached through fear and doubt. She also addresses a common issue, particularly among women: the feeling that it is wrong to want more.

“Gina, even as a little girl, had this sense that she wanted to help people – help them through trauma and issues of their past,” said Boblitt. “She had four children, two sets of twins, one child had special needs. At age 45, she said, ‘This is what I really want to do.’ She went to school and got her degree.”

As Boblitt explains, Gina struggled with questions like, “Do I really leave my family for classes every night? I have to do an internship and then work full time. Am I being selfish by saying, ‘I can be more, I can do more?’”

“Gina had to ask herself, ‘If I don’t do it, who then is not going to benefit from what I can provide?’”

said Boblitt. “If you can offer your talents, your gifts, your experience, your expertise to other people and they benefit from that, it’s really not a selfish endeavor, it’s the opposite.”

INTEGRITY: THE CORNERSTONE OF LEADERSHIP

In “BOLD Mission,” Boblitt outlines 15 essential leadership qualities, offering integrity as the 16th and most important one. “Integrity means making decisions that are right – after looking at the facts and the data – not making decisions to please people,” she said. “That’s what integrity means to me and that needs to flow through everything we do.”

“BOLD Mission: Courageously Pursue Your Calling” is available on Amazon and on Boblitt’s book site, Boldmissionbydebraboblitt.com where she also offers a package that contains videos with discussions about the BOLD strategy, along with worksheets to support people through their BOLD Mission. For Boblitt Consulting, LLC, visit Debraboblitt.com or email debraboblitt@me.com.

“When you own your calling,” she writes, “it will lead to a more authentic expression of yourself and who you were created to be.” QCBN

To hear more from Debra Boblitt, visit Zonie Living at StarWorldWideNetworks.com/ shows/bonnie-stevens.

life. She said, ‘With this raise, you can come live with me, but I have two rules: You need to go to college and be home for dinner every night.’ She taught me what it was to have a family. If it weren’t for her giving me the space, I wouldn’t be able to climb out of that hole of generational poverty. I wouldn’t have finished college. She provided the space to break the patterns and get out of that abusive relationship.”

Stephens joined AmeriCorps after college and moved from Pennsylvania to Prescott in 2018.

On Friday, Sept. 20, the banquet room at Starting Point erupted in a burst of cheers and thunderous applause as Mona Stephens’ name was announced as the recipient for the 2024 ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award.

“What it felt like to receive the award and be recognized was surreal and very humbling,” she said. “When I grew up, you just did what you were supposed to do. You don’t get praised for doing the right thing, you just get punished for doing the wrong thing. It means so much to be honored. I can show others you don’t have to hide and you can take a moment to allow yourself to feel the praise.” QCBN

Debra Boblitt’s new book, “BOLD Mission Courageously Pursue Your Calling,” guides readers from an idea to actuality, with step-by-step advice. Courtesy photo

Juvenile Court to teach at-risk kids creativity, resiliency and emotional intelligence. “It feels so wonderful to be seen, to be visible and to be praised for doing the right thing. I can show the kids in the mentor circle that change is possible. This is proof. It’s a powerful lesson – a powerful lesson for me, too!” Read more about Mona Stephens on page 14.

CASA Court Appointed Special Advocates of Yavapai County received the 2024 ATHENA Organizational Leadership Award. “All the volunteers and staff with CASA of Yavapai County feel incredibly grateful,” said CASA Dependency Court Manager Amber Martin. “While we do not do this work to be recognized, it was wonderful to be nominated and awarded this great honor for our efforts to advocate for children in the foster care system. We hope that by reading about us in the Quad Cities Business News, other citizens in Yavapai County will become aware of the CASA program and might become interested in being a Court Appointed Special Advocate to offer support to families and children during this challenging time in their lives.”

West received a rousing standing ovation after sharing her message, “S.U.C.C.E.S.S., How to Get It and How to Keep It,” expressing the importance of having a sense of humor,

staying challenged, making ethics a priority, incorporating service into your life, putting yourself first “once in a while,” enjoying the passage of time and turning a crisis into an opportunity.

“Getting let go from a job turned into the biggest gift of my life… adopting my daughter from Mother

Vishnu is a niche operation that’s downstream, so to speak, from the commercial river outfitters that ferry 20,000 thrill-seekers down the Colorado each year.

Other outfitters supply rafts, gear, food and shuttles for private river trips. That includes Canyon REO, Ceiba Adventures, Moenkopi Riverworks and Professional River Outfitters.

Herring said he’s worked for 16 years as a Colorado River guide and is friendly with many of the outfitters.

He said his whitewater expertise and knowledge of boats and river gear set him apart for other outdoor retailers in Flagstaff.

Herring’s kayaking experience includes rivers in Chile, Peru, Ecuador, Canada and the Zambezi in Africa. Some favorites in the United States are the South Fork of the Salmon in Idaho, Upper Animas in Colorado and Kern River in California, flowing through the Sierra Nevada with Class I to VI rapids to navigate.

Check out Herring’s YouTube videos to observe how fearless he is in chaotic whitewater rapids.

Herring learned to kayak on the fly and said he has avoided any serious mishaps on the water.

Now, Herring’s learning curve involves operating his business and dealing with a different kind of flow: cash flow.

“My biggest challenge is getting my name out there.”

Vishnu sells river equipment but also rents kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, known as SUPs. That includes Hala SUPs, Waka and Pyranha kayaks and Tomcat solo and tandem inflatable kayaks. The rental fee is $25 per day.

The rentals are popular for outings on Lake Mary, the Salt and Verde rivers, and East Clear Creek south of Winslow.

Herring is also adept at repairing inflatable rafts and kayaks. QCBN

Vishnu is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.

Teresa’s orphanage in Honduras,” she said.

“It was a great honor, on behalf of QCBN, to recognize women in leadership throughout the Quad Cities – mature women, young women and women leading organizations, who work tirelessly to lift others and make our communities great,” said Quad

“A huge thanks to our sponsors and congratulations to all our finalists. Every single one is deserving of the award.”

“I was bowled over by the excellence and quality of work displayed by all the ATHENA nominees,” said

West. “Soooooo much talent among all the women of all ages. I am just glad I wasn’t on the panel of judges! The ceremony was at such a beautiful venue. The afternoon was beyond inspirational and bravo to the sponsors as well, who helped make the magic happen.” QCBN

Phone 928-864-7440 Fax 928-226-0303

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

Founder: Troy Bix

Publisher Troy Bix | 928-420-4407 troy@quadcitiesbusinessnews.com

Advertising Manager

Linda Thein | 602-799-0583 linda@quadcitiesbusinessnews.com

Account Executives

Tyler Hood | 928-440-0747 tyler@quadcitiesbusinessnews.com

Editor

Bonnie Stevens | 928-380-4349 bonnie.stevens@gmail.com

Copy Editor

Carolyn Wendell | cwendell@gmail.com

Design & Production

Rob Ghosh Design | rob@robghosh.com

Contributing Writers

Bonnie Stevens

Stan Bindell

V. Ronnie Tierney

Betsey Bruner

Contributing Photographers

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

Photography

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

Cities Business News and Flagstaff Business News Advertising Manager Linda Thein.

VISHNU continued from page 18

Above Legendary Arizona television news anchorwoman Mary Jo West shared “S.U.C.C.E.S.S., How to Get It and How to Keep It” in the ATHENA Leadership Awards keynote presentation. Top Right ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award nominees Makayla Chadwick, Bree Fitzgerald, Fatima Jameson, Alexes Niekamp and Mona Stephens were honored at the event. Lower Right Mary Jo West visited with community leaders such as Northern AZ Social business owner Donna Werking.

Photos by Kay Lyons

ATHENA continued from page 1

will join Monnett’s team by the end of the year.

“This way, we will be able to do more sooner,” he said.

Monnett grew up in Wickenburg and has spent the last 12 years in Charleston, West Virginia, specializing in robotic surgery.

“It means we only have to make small incisions and it takes out the fatigue factor for the doctor. Yesterday, I removed a rectal tumor and the patient went home today without any pain or medication,” he said, adding that a massive tumor removed from a colon usually takes a seven-day recovery period, but with the robot, it takes just two.

As a result, he says, patients have less exposure to infections that occur in hospitals, because they are released sooner. “Patients are back on their feet quicker, so they are less likely to get blood clots or pneumonia.”

Since its introduction, the da Vinci system has been used in multiple disciplines, including urology, gynecology, heart, stomach, colon and general surgery. “We are incredibly proud of our surgical team and the staff who have embraced this technology and worked diligently to achieve this milestone,” said Monnett. “The da Vinci Robotics System has not only improved patient outcomes but also broadened the range of surgical options available in our community.”

The robotic surgeries are not more expensive than conventional surgeries and are covered by insurance like any other surgery, he said. “I like to do what’s more affordable.”

Monnett oversees the robotic surgeries, along with surgical technicians Elizabeth Dubois and Alicia Ball. Most of the robotic surgeries take only an hour, he says. The robot

is battery operated. It is plugged in while it’s working.

When patients first hear about the robotic surgery, they often have concerns that the robot is working by

itself, but it is not, says Monnett, as the doctor and surgeon assistants are always there. “This is a team sport, just like any surgery.” QCBN

Harvest Festival | Saturday, October 5 - 11 am to 4 pm | Prescott Valley Civic Center Family Fun - Free for all ages

Celebrate the welcome of Fall season at Prescott Valley’s newest special event. Join us at the Prescott Valley Civic Center in your best costume to partake in all the activities being offered. There will be a costume contest, carnival rides, face painting, inflatables, a haunted house, food vendors, plenty of candy, and more! For more information or to volunteer for this wonderful event, contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 928-759-3090.

Safe Trick or Treat | Thursday, October 31

4 to 7 p.m. Findlay Toyota Center | Free for all ages

Visit the many businesses and organizations for Trick or Treating inside and outside the Findlay Toyota Center. Come ready to eat. This is an evening of Trick or Treat fun for the whole family. Businesses and organizations interested in participating may contact Makayla Chadwick at 1-307-699-4494.

Presented by the Prescott Valley Early Bird Lions Club.

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

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

Dr. Shane Monnett says that with robotics surgery, patients are back on their feet quicker and are less likely to get blood clots or pneumonia. Photo by Stan Bindell

ROBOT

Minimally invasive. Maximally effective.

Robotic-assisted surgery and state-of-the-art neurosurgery come to Yavapai Regional.

Yavapai Regional continues to invest in the latest leading-edge innovations in patient care. Our recent acquisition of a robotic surgical system extends the capabilities of expert surgeons who are specially trained in using this device for orthopedic, urologic, gynecologic, and general-surgery procedures. Furthermore, minimally invasive intracranial (skull) and spinal neurosurgery are now performed using robotic technology.

In the hands of our outstanding surgical teams, these powerful, ultra-advanced technologies are getting people back to their lives faster—with less pain, shorter recovery times, shorter hospital stays, less blood loss and scarring, less post-operative pain medications, and a lower risk of infection.

Explore at DignityHealth.org/YRMC