Prescott LIVING Winter 2026

Contents February/March

RECREATION

Fashion & Flawless: Confidence, Creativity and Commerce in Prescott

Prescott Task Force: Empowering Teens, Enriching Community

Education Feature: Yavapai Exploration and Science Injects STEAM Energy

Dig Up Adorable Outifts your Dog Won’t Shake Off Fashion and Furnishings: A Divine Design Connection

Pour your Imagination into Prescott Valley’s Be Creative Art Classes

Overlanding Opens Remote Vistas to Outdoor Adventures

Spring into Fun with Prescott Valley Parks and Recreation

Aymee Wilson Helps Clients Look and Feel their Best

Fashion & Flawless

Don’t miss our guide to dressing smart during our lesspredictable spring and fall weather, plus the latest in K-Beauty innovation and bob hairstyling!

30 FEATURE

Mastering the In-Between: Practical and Fashionable Style for ‘Shoulder Seasons’

34, 40

BEAUTY & STYLE DIRECTORIES

We have all the places in Greater Prescott to get pampered, primped and personally styled.

Your Skin Needs a Screen All Winter Long Simple Habits to Boost Mental Health

Keep Defenses Up Against Digital Eye Strain

Cayla Mesdag, Marketing Media & Events Coordinator, Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos

This photo taken by Vannet Photography shows Nicole and Wacey Westcott during their engagement shoot at Old Camp Ranch in Prescott.

Chris Bellos

Advertiser Index

Pavers

Retaining

Landscape

HOA &

Landscape

Bio-Feed

Maintenance

Irrigation

Sod

EXECUTIVE PUBLISHER

Elaine M. Earle, CPA

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Laurie Fisher

SALES & MARKETING

Laurie Fisher

Vice President of Sales & Marketing

Julie Turetzky

Director of Marketing Services

Christina Lewandowski

Executive Sales & Marketing Assistant

PRODUCTION & DESIGN

Michele Rodriguez

Creative Director

Abigail Biegert

Art Director

Keith Dobie

Social Media Coordinator

Shannon Price

EDITORIAL

Julie Turetzky

Managing Editor

Christia Gibbons

Senior Editor

Blake Herzog

Staff Writer

Prescott Pioneer Writer

OPERATIONS

Terry Scheib

Delivery Manager

Gabrielle Luciano

Distribution Associate

Comments and ideas: editor@roxco.com

Subscriptions: info@roxco.com prescottlivingmag.com/copies

Advertising Inquiries: info@roxco.com prescottlivingmag.com/advertise

130 N. Granite St., Prescott, AZ 86301 928.350.8006

Corporate Office: 1670 N. Pinal Ave., No. 11190 Casa Grande, AZ 85130

Photo by Broken Star Photography, James Bau

OUR GOAL: to Captivate

It’s our Winter 2026 Fashion & Flawless edition and we’ve come up with some different sorts of experiences and ideas to fit into your life to make it fabulous.

Allow us to introduce you to overlanding. From there we’ll share the value of wooden scoops, offer tips on dressing your pet, help you create a cottage garden and tell you why bobs (as in hairstyle) are back.

Overlanding is not traveling to campgrounds or RV parks. No, overlanding is exploring — with a totally self-sufficient vehicle — the outer reaches or the inner depths of nature. Journey and destination are equally thrilling. Dana Marshall, co-owner of MULE Expedition Outfitters in Prescott Valley, tells us all about overlanding.

Now what about wooden scoops? We show you how to put some polish into your pantry by using uniform class jars, ceramic canisters — perhaps made by local artisans — baskets and wooden scoops, which soften any space. Beautiful organization.

When it comes to your pets, remember they need ease of movement. Something soft, lightweight may be appreciated. A hat that involves ears, never. A rain jacket likely would be welcomed, and any boots need breaking in.

Creating a cottage garden in our high desert and mountain conditions is a bit tricky, but we offer a how-to guide from concept to knowing the right plants to consider.

Our feature Fashion & Flawless section educates why this year, bobs and micro bangs are all the rage. These aren’t uniform, helmet cuts, but a framework to match your personality and show off your lovely face. You might even consider a shag hybrid bob.

Speaking of faces, Aymee Wilson, owner of Wilson Aesthetics Beauty + Wellness is our ROX interview. She is passionate about helping people look and feel better from facials to Botox to IV vitamin infusions to weight loss and more.

As Aymee puts it: “Nobody is ever a lost cause. Everybody is beautiful as they are, but making some subtle tweaks and enhancements can make somebody feel so much better.”

We can’t share some highlights from this edition without mentioning the Healing River Ranch Camp that takes care of animals that have a 1% or less chance of surviving without this sanctuary.

This nonprofit group is helping burros, horses, senior dogs, steers, goats, sheep, a couple of pigs, chickens, an alpaca, a turkey and three livestock guardian dogs. Please read more about the group’s philosophy and the work done.

And of course you’ll hear, as always, from community leaders, business people and others throughout our pages.

Read on,

Laurie Fisher

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER, Prescott LIVING

VOICES of the COMMUNITY

At Prescott LIVING magazine, our slogan is “The Voice of the Community” because we believe the stories in our local region are best told by the people, companies, nonprofits and organizations that comprise our community. Here are the “voices” who helped make this issue possible!

Marketing Specialist, Prescott Valley Parks and Recreation

Sheri L. Heiney

President/CEO, Prescott & Chino Valley Area Chambers of Commerce

Managing Broker, Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, Sedona

Tod Christensen

Ashlie Bigelow

Ken Lain Owner, Watters Garden Center

Steve B racety President & CEO, Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce

Loree Walden Marketing Manager, Yavapai Humane Society

Donna Werking Owner, Marketing Strategist, Northern AZ Social, LLC

Maggie Holmberg Economic Development and Intergov Manager, Town of Chino Valley

Samara Rice

Recreation Coordinator, City of Prescott Parks & Recreation

HIGHLIGHTING THE HEART & HUSTLE OF GREATER PRESCOTT

YAVAPAI COLLEGE LEVERAGING AI IN HIRING PRACTICES

Yavapai College (YC), like many schools and businesses around the world, has embraced various artificial intelligence (AI) platforms as an institution, such as Zoom AI companion and Google Gemini.

One area in which another AI technology is being deployed at YC is Human Resources. That department has adopted BrainTrust AI Recruiter, a product that uses AI to conduct first-pass interviews to screen applicants for open positions with the school.

“Yavapai College started evaluating this product in February (2025),” said Dr. Richard Pierce, Yavapai College Information Technology Systems Relationship Manager.

“We set up a pilot program with different academic units, like nursing and other professional programs. For our students who are going to be matriculating into the workforce, we wanted them to practice their interview skills. The goal would be for the students to take the pre-interview survey, take the interview, and maybe a second and then a post-interview survey.”

BrainTrust AIR is an all-in-one hiring solution used by numerous Fortune 500 companies to facilitate human resource processes. The tool conducts online interviews via a web conferencing platform, like Zoom or Teams. BrainTrust AIR is up-front about its nature when it interviews people — applicants are made aware they are engaging with an AI platform.

Pierce shared the recruiting and interviewing technology with Dr. Janet Nix, YC’s Human Resources Chief Officer. Nix engaged with it in the guise of a job applicant and was very interested in it.

“Bottom line, this AI helps us be more efficient and takes away bias,” Nix said. “Here at Yavapai College, one of the hardest things to do is pick and attend the meetings for the multiple interviews. This helps make us more efficient, and the turnaround time to hire is quicker.”

YC’s Human Resources officially started using the AI recruiter at the beginning of November, so there is no outcome data yet. As Dr. Pierce noted, the college also is using it to help students become more familiar and comfortable in a job interview setting.

“The AI process has a great way of doing follow-up questions, and not everyone is adept at that,” Nix said. “I used the AI recruiter as a job applicant doing an interview on a topic for which I knew just enough to be in trouble. The follow-up questions help determine more deeply the level of knowledge expressed by the applicant in a given subject. It helps determine that their responses are general but reveals that applicants possess no realworld experience.”

Part of Pierce’s role at YC is to test new technologies and platforms the school is considering deploying in specific areas or districtwide.

“I liaise between ITS and academic and staff departments,” Dr. Pierce said. “My superpower is to be able to partner with YC Executive Director of Learning and Educational Innovation Robyn Bryce — we are a super team.”

All first-screen applicants will do an interview with this tool. The service provides a scorecard for each one and a recording of the interview. YC hiring managers can watch the interview and look at the scorecards based on their responses.

“It’s an interesting thought experiment to consider: you’ve got the direct cost of this service, the indirect cost of all the committee work and all that on the other side, so I’ve engaged Yavapai College’s Dr. Megan Hanna — Faculty Program Director in Business — to help me evaluate this first-year project in terms of return on investment,” Dr. Pierce said.

YRMC Opens Simulation Lab to Advance Clinical Education

Dignity Health, Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC) has opened a state-of-the-art simulation lab at its west campus in Prescott, expanding opportunities for clinical education throughout the area.

Designed to support medical students, graduate nurses and current staff, the simulation lab provides education and annual competency training in a safe and realistic environment. The lab also offers scenario-based training to teach health care professionals how to treat and

respond to a variety of medical conditions and complications, including instances of abdominal pain, breathing difficulty and cardiac events.

The learning doesn’t end with the hands-on portion of the simulations. Special camera equipment allows each scenario to be filmed from two different angles. The footage then can be reviewed by students and instructors to see where improvements can be made.

“This new lab provides participants the opportunity to learn in a stress-free

environment,” explained YRMC President and CEO Dr. Anthony Torres. “That way, when they encounter a similar situation in a real clinical setting, their training becomes second nature.”

The majority of the funding for the lab came from the Yavapai Regional Medical Center Foundation. The new simulation lab follows a number of recent YRMC expansions, including the opening of a sports medicine clinic and the addition of 10 new intensive care unit beds on YRMC’s east campus.

YRMC simulation lab. PHOTO COURTESY OF DIGNITY HEALTH, YAVAPAI REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

Aymee Wilson

BY BLAKE HERZOG

Yavapai County native Aymee Wilson has always been guided by an instinct for compassionate care. Today, that instinct has evolved into Wilson Aesthetics Beauty + Wellness, a growing med spa in Prescott Valley that blends medical expertise with a thoughtful, client-centered approach to aesthetics and wellness.

A registered nurse currently pursuing her nurse practitioner degree, Wilson brings a broad and diverse background to her work. Her practice offers a comprehensive range of services, including customized facials, Botox, IV vitamin infusions, medical weight loss programs, and a growing functional wellness division. In addition to caring for her own clients, Wilson travels nationally to train other providers and shares her expertise through contributions to Prescott LIVING’s sister publication, Prescott Healthy LIVING.

Before launching her business, Wilson spent nearly a decade working in hospice nursing, an experience that shaped her belief that quality care is about more than treatments alone. That philosophy continues to guide her work today, as she and her team focus on helping clients feel confident, healthy and supported at every stage of life.

Wilson, 44, lives in Camp Verde with her husband and high school sweetheart, Todd Wilson, whom she met at Mingus High School in Cottonwood. When she’s not working, studying or teaching, she enjoys spending time outdoors and with her extended family — including her mother, Kim Gould, a nurse practitioner who serves as medical director at Wilson Aesthetics and works alongside her daughter in the practice.

For more information about Wilson Aesthetics Beauty + Wellness visit www.wilsonaestheticsaz.com.

with AYMEE WILSON

Helps Clients Look and Feel their B est

Prescott LIVING: Take us back to the beginning. Where did you grow up, and how did your family and early experiences shape the path you chose?

Aymee Wilson: I grew up in Cottonwood, Arizona, where I was born and raised, and I attended Mingus High School. My mom’s side of the family has deep roots in the Verde Valley, they’ve been there since the 1960s and still farm in Camp Verde today. Because of that, my childhood was spent going back and forth between Cottonwood and Camp Verde, which gave me a strong connection to the community and that way of life.

When I was about 20, I moved to Phoenix to continue my education. I attended Arizona State University for a short time before ultimately finding my path in nursing. I earned my nursing degree from Estrella Mountain Community College, then went on to Grand Canyon University to complete my bachelor’s degree.

Now, I’m currently pursuing my nurse practitioner degree through Walden University online, and I have about a year left. Looking back, those early experiences and my family’s long history in the area really helped shape the direction I chose and the career I’m building today.

What led you to pursue nursing?

I was really drawn to nursing from an early age because I grew up surrounded by the medical field. My mom is a nurse practitioner, my

grandmother was a licensed practical nurse, and my dad worked as a respiratory therapist, so healthcare was always a big part of my life. For a while, though, I actually thought I wanted to pursue something different like social work or psychology partly because everyone just assumed I would become a nurse since my mom was one. I wanted to explore another path before ultimately realizing that nursing was where I truly belonged.

Another factor was the lifestyle nursing could provide. With what my husband does for work, he is a Journeyman Lineman by trade for APS and is now currently the Supervisor for Construction Services, I wanted a career that would be flexible and portable, something that would allow me to find work wherever life might take us. Nursing offered that stability and mobility, and it felt like the right fit.

After I graduated in 2008, it was a challenging time to find a job as a new nurse. Hospice nursing actually came into my life unexpectedly. A close friend of mine was a director of nursing for a hospice and encouraged me to come work with her. I started out on an as-needed basis, and very quickly, I fell in love with it.

Hospice became such a meaningful part of my career, and I stayed in that field for nearly ten years. I truly enjoyed being able to support patients and families during such an important time in their lives.

About ten years ago, I was introduced to aesthetic nursing while still working full-time in hospice. I started part-time, and over time I discovered a completely new passion, helping clients feel confident, refreshed,

and like the best version of themselves. Eventually, I made the full transition into aesthetics, and in 2019, we opened Wilson Aesthetics. I’ve been doing this full-time ever since, and it has been such a rewarding journey.

Is there any commonality that you found between hospice and aesthetics care as far as the compassion required in both, to some degree?

Most definitely. No matter what area of nursing you’re in, you go into it because you genuinely care about people and you want to help them. The setting may look different, but the heart of it is the same.

In hospice, that compassion is focused on supporting patients and families at the end of life, helping people feel comfortable, peaceful, and cared for during such an important time. In aesthetics, the care is different, but it still comes from that same desire to help people feel better, especially as we age and experience changes, both physically and emotionally. It can be difficult, particularly for women, to navigate not only the outward changes in our bodies but also all of the internal shifts that come with different stages of life.

One of the things we’ve really been working toward at Wilson Aesthetics is expanding beyond just the exterior. We’re developing women’s health and men’s health programs so we can address some of the internal factors that may be affecting how people feel, not just how they look.

The common thread between hospice and aesthetics is that both are rooted in compassion. Whether someone is in their final days and needs comfort, or they’re coming in for a simple facial

because they’re not feeling like themselves, the goal is the same, to help them feel cared for, supported, and better when they leave.

What brought you to Prescott Valley? And I guess now you live in Camp Verde?

Yes, we do live in Camp Verde now. That’s where my mom’s side of the family still farms, so it has always felt like home to us. Staying connected to that area and our roots has been really important.

When we decided to open our practice, Prescott Valley made the most sense from a business standpoint. The market is strong here, there are more people and more opportunity. It allowed us to grow and reach more clients while still being close to home.

And has that proven to be the case?

Yes! When we first opened, Prescott Valley really was the right place for us. The market here has been wonderful, and the community has been incredibly supportive.

Over time, I think we’ve built something strong enough that we could probably be successful in other areas too. But I truly love the clients we’ve gotten to know here in Prescott Valley.

We also welcome people who travel to us from other states, Phoenix and other surrounding areas, which has been really exciting, but Prescott Valley has been such a great home base. We’ve met so many incredible people, and we’re genuinely thankful for the support the community has shown us.

Overall, it feels like it was a great decision, and we’re grateful to be thriving here as a small business.

Do you have other certifications for aesthetics or wellness?

Yes, I do. I’m actually a national trainer for Galderma, which is one of the leading aesthetic companies we work with and a major provider of many of our products. That was an opportunity I was offered last year, and it has been an incredible experience.

I’m also a national trainer for Prollenium, another company that specializes in dermal fillers. Through these roles, I’ve been able to travel all over the country providing education and hands-on training to other medical professionals. Aesthetic medicine is truly a form of healthcare, and especially as we continue expanding into functional wellness, it’s so important to stay current on the latest techniques, research, and advancements in the field. Continuing education is a huge priority for me and for our practice.

That is cool. So, you’ve had this practice for about seven years. How has it grown over time?

It’s honestly been really interesting and rewarding to watch the practice grow over time. We opened right before COVID, so navigating those early changes and challenges was an experience in itself. But despite everything, we were still able to grow, adapt, and really evolve as a business.

Over the years, the practice has expanded in ways I never would have imagined. We’ve grown our services, built an incredible team, and now we have a staff of 14, which is more than I ever expected when we first started.

And what’s even more exciting is that we still have so many plans ahead. There are a lot of new things in the works, and it feels like we’re just continuing to build something even bigger and better for the future.

How did your staffing start out?

In the beginning, we started very small. At first, we had just one staff member, and we also had providers who rented rooms within the practice. Over the years, our staffing model naturally evolved. We moved into working with independent contractors for a period of time, and then about four years ago, we transitioned into having a fully employee-based team.

That shift made a huge difference for the cohesion of the business. Having everyone working together under the same structure allows us to flow and function as a true team, all aligned in our approach and standards.

It also helps us consistently provide the highest level of care. We’re able to maintain strong clinical standards, ensure treatments are delivered safely and effectively, and create the best possible experience for our clients.

Tell me a little bit more about your staff.

We truly have an incredible staff, and I’m really proud of the team we’ve built.

My mom (Kim) is also a key part of our practice. She’s a nurse practitioner and our medical director, and she’s NAMScertified, meaning she’s nationally recognized in menopause and women’s health care. She has an extensive background in nursing education as well, she’s taught at Northern Arizona University and within the Yavapai College nursing program, so she brings a tremendous amount of knowledge and expertise to everything we do.

We also recently hired a physician assistant named Chelsea, who will be working closely with my mom to help expand and develop our functional medicine and wellness programs.

On the wellness side, we have additional nursing support, including Paul, who focuses on services like IV therapy, vitamin injections, and wellnessbased treatments. He also provides pain management support using a neurostimulation device called Dolphin.

For our aesthetic services, we have another injector, Tori, who is a registered nurse and assists with all of the injectable, CO2 and various laser treatments.

Beyond our medical providers, we also have three licensed aestheticians and certified laser technicians. They handle all of our facials, skincare services, and laser treatments.

And of course, we have an amazing support staff that keeps everything running smoothly each day from our front desk team to our social media and marketing support. It truly takes all of us working together to make the practice what it is.

What has been the key to running a successful business in a competitive industry?

One of the biggest keys for me has always been having a mindset of community over competition. I truly believe in supporting other businesses, not just our own. I’ve always felt that there are plenty of clients to go around, and that building each other up ultimately strengthens the entire community. In an industry like aesthetics, every practice serves different needs and connects with different people. We may not be the perfect fit for every client, and that’s okay, another practice might be exactly what they’re looking for. What matters most is that individuals find the provider and environment that feels right for them.

Being a business owner is definitely not easy. It takes a lot of work, dedication, and constant learning. I think it’s crucial to stay open and honest, always looking for ways to grow, improve, and elevate both yourself and the business.

And just as importantly, taking care of your staff is essential. Our team is truly the foundation of what we do, and I’m grateful that many of our employees have been with us for years. We feel very blessed to have such a strong, committed group of people, and I believe that treating your team well is one of the most important parts of building long-term success.

Right. OK. Now we can get into what services you offer.

We really do offer a wide range of services, and that’s one of the things I love most about our practice. Because we have such a diverse and highly trained staff, we’re able to provide everything from relaxing, rejuvenating facials to more advanced, medical-grade aesthetic treatments.

On the skincare and laser side, we offer high-end technologies like Morpheus8, CO₂ laser resurfacing, and IPL treatments. We also provide injectable services such as Botox, dermal fillers, PDO thread lifts, and other aesthetic procedures designed to help clients look refreshed and feel confident.

In addition to aesthetics, we’ve expanded significantly into wellness care. We offer men’s and women’s health services, and we are getting ready to launch a comprehensive functional wellness program. That includes treatments like peptides, and it will continue to grow to include well-woman exams and a variety of specialty and preventative testing including screenings for cancer risk, allergies, and other underlying health concerns.

Our goal is not only to help people feel great on the outside, but also to focus on proactive, preventative care so we can support overall health and well-being, rather than always trying to catch up after issues arise.

Obviously, you saw a need for this?

Yes, we definitely did. As our community continues to grow, we’ve seen a real need for more accessible wellness and preventative care. Not everyone has insurance, and many people are already used to paying out of pocket for certain services, especially when they’re looking for timely, personalized care.

With my mom’s extensive background in women’s health, it felt like a natural expansion. She’s spent her entire career in that field and has such a gift for connecting with patients and making them feel comfortable. We also hear often from clients that it can be difficult to get in quickly with a primary care provider, dermatologist, or specialist.

Because we’re already providing so many services here, we realized this was something we could offer in a meaningful way.

For example, my mom already cares for a strong base of patients through treatments like EmpowerRF. This system provides neuromuscular re-education for weak pelvic floor muscles, relief from stress, urge, and mixed urinary incontinence and pain, improves blood circulation, targets subdermal adipose tissue, and strengthens abdominal muscles. We’ve been addressing aspects of women’s health for some time, so expanding into well-woman exams and more comprehensive care felt like the next step. It allows us to provide more complete, full-body care, rather than treating things in isolation and ultimately helps our clients feel supported both inside and out.

What services are most in demand?

Right now, weight loss is definitely one of the biggest areas of demand. We’ve seen a lot of interest in our wellness and weight management services, especially as more people are looking for support that goes beyond aesthetics alone.

Facials are also extremely popular. We have an amazing team of aestheticians who are incredibly skilled, and clients really love the results and the relaxation that comes with those treatments.

Todd and Aymee Wilson with Col. Tamera G. Borchardt, USAF, NC as the Honorary Commander for the 56th Medical Group for Luke Air Force Base in Glendale.

And of course, Botox and Dysport, the neurotoxin family continues to be some of our most consistently requested services. People are always coming in for those treatments to help maintain a refreshed, natural look.

So overall, I’d say our most in-demand services right now are hormones and wellness support, weight loss, facials, and injectable treatments like Botox and Dysport.

I bet you get a lot of questions about your own self-care routine. What are your routines and what advice do you give to others?

I do get that question a lot, and honestly, I’ve tried a little bit of everything over the years. Some of my favorite self-care treatments are our facials, they’re such a great way to reset and take care of your skin, and our team does an amazing job. I also personally do hormone replacement therapy in the form of pellets, and that has been truly life-changing for me. Hormones, especially for women, affect so much more than people realize, your energy, mood, sleep, overall well-being so getting them balanced can make an enormous difference.

I’ve also gone through our weight loss program, and I do injectable treatments as part of my routine as well. I typically do filler about once a year, and I get neurotoxin treatments every three months. I actually prefer Dysport instead of Botox, but they’re very similar and both help maintain a natural, refreshed look.

I think one of the most fulfilling aspects for me is the constant innovation in this industry. Aesthetics and wellness are evolving so rapidly, and there are always new treatment options, technologies, and approaches emerging that allow us to better serve our patients. Because of that, I never feel like we get stuck or complacent. There’s always something new to learn, something new to explore, and a way to continue growing as a provider.

Are there other community activities that you do, either as yourself or for the business?

Yes, community involvement is really important to me, both personally and through the business. I currently serve on the board of directors for the Boys & Girls Club here in Prescott, which has been a meaningful way to give back and support local youth. I’m also an honorary commander for Luke Air Force Base within their medical group, which has been such a unique and fun experience. It’s an incredible opportunity to connect with and support the military community in a different way.

If you asked me what I truly wouldn’t want to live without, it would probably be Dysport and hormone support, because for me, those two things have had the biggest impact, not just aesthetically, but in how I feel overall.

What has been the most fulfilling aspect of working in the aesthetics and the health and wellness industry for you?

That ongoing education is exciting, and it ultimately helps us deliver the highest level of care possible. What I also love is the variety. We work with so many different skin types, body types, and individual goals, which means every client experience is unique. It keeps the work meaningful and challenging in the best way, and it’s incredibly rewarding to be able to tailor treatments to help each person look and feel their best.

As a business, we’re also active members of the Chamber of Commerce, and we always try to support local events and youth programs whenever we can whether that’s kids’ football, baseball, or other community activities. Giving back and staying involved is something we truly value, and we’re grateful to be part of such a supportive community.

What do you like to do in your spare time? You’re up in Camp Verde, so you’re probably outdoorsy people.

We definitely are outdoorsy. We spend a lot of time outside, especially living up in Camp Verde. We enjoy hunting, and we’re also big lake people, we’re out on the water as much as we can during the summer. We love visiting places like Lake Mead, Lake Powell, and Roosevelt Lake.

My husband is also a private pilot, and while it’s not his full-time job, it’s something he truly loves doing for fun. So whenever we have the chance, we enjoy flying and taking little trips together. I also spend a lot of time with my family, and we love to travel and have adventures. We’re scuba divers, so we’ve been able to do quite a bit of diving over the years.

One of our most recent big trips was to Ireland about a year and a half ago, which was amazing. We’ve also traveled to places like the Caribbean, Jamaica, and Honduras, and we’ve explored many areas across the United States as well. We really try to experience as much as we can whenever we have the opportunity.

What are future plans for your business?

Our plans are always evolving, because we’re constantly looking for new ways to grow and provide even better care for our patients. We’re always assessing what our community needs and how we can continue to elevate the services we offer.

We do have some exciting things in the works. Over the next couple of years, we’re planning to expand into a larger space here in Prescott Valley, which will allow us to serve more clients and continue building out our wellness and aesthetic programs.

We’re also looking ahead to opening an additional location somewhere else in Northern Arizona. It’s a really exciting time for us, and we’re grateful to be in a position where we can keep growing while staying true to the level of care and attention we’ve built our practice on.

Professionally, you’re probably about mid-career at this point.

Yes, most definitely. And honestly, I absolutely love what I do. Owning a business is a lot of work, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Being able to serve our community, support our clients and patients, and see the impact we can make is something I wouldn’t trade for anything. That said, none of what we do would be possible without our incredible team. I’m so grateful for our staff, their passion, work ethic, and genuine care for our patients are truly the heart of our practice. What we’ve built is very much a team effort, and I’m proud of the culture and level of care we create together every day.

Professionally and personally, I’ve never been someone who sits still very well. I’m always looking ahead, thinking about what the next step is and how we can continue improving. I want to make sure we’re consistently providing the highest standard of care, and that we’re always growing and evolving as a practice—not just in services, but in how we support our team and our community as a whole.

Finishing school within the next year is also a huge personal goal for me. I’ve spent so much of my life focused on education, and while I genuinely enjoy learning, it will feel really meaningful to complete this next chapter.

Once that’s finished, I’m not entirely sure what my next big goal will be—but I’ve always thought it would be amazing to earn my private pilot’s license someday as well. Balancing school, a growing business, and everything else is definitely a lot, but I try my best to find that balance, stay grounded, and keep moving forward.

Are there more things you’ll be able to do as a nurse practitioner that you’re anticipating?

For me, becoming a nurse practitioner is really about being able to expand what we offer and strengthen the future of the practice. Right now, my mom serves as our nurse practitioner and medical director, and she provides such an incredible level of care.

One of my goals is to make sure that as the business continues to grow, we’re also building long-term sustainability. When she eventually decides she’s ready to retire, I want to ensure we’re fully prepared to continue offering the same services and maintaining the same high standard of care that our patients and clients have come to expect.

It’s really about supporting the next chapter of Wilson Aesthetics while continuing the legacy of quality, wellnessfocused care that she’s helped establish.

What do you say when you’re talking to people who may be thinking, “Well, I might want to do something like this, but I don’t know. It’s too expensive, or it doesn’t work, I’m going to be aging anyway so it isn’t worth it,” that kind of thing, what would you say?

I would honestly say: just come in and talk with us. We have such a friendly, welcoming staff, and sometimes people are surprised by what’s actually available and how much can be done in a very natural, subtle way.

We often have clients walk in and say things like, “I’m just a lost cause,” and I always tell them nobody is ever a lost cause. Everyone is beautiful exactly as they are. The goal isn’t to change who you are, but sometimes even small enhancements or supportive wellness treatments can make someone feel so much more confident and like the best version of themselves.

And it doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. A consultation is simply a chance to learn, ask questions, and explore options. The worst-case scenario is that we’ll be honest and tell you if what you’re asking for isn’t the best fit and then help guide you toward something that is.

Ultimately, it’s about feeling good, inside and out, and knowing you have supportive people here to help you along the way.

Aymee’s mom, Kim Gould

Mastering the In-Between:

Practical and Fashionable Style for ‘Shoulder Seasons’

Greater Prescott’s shoulder seasons are lovely, but dressing for them can be a little tricky. Days can feel mild and sunny, while mornings and evenings still carry a chill — especially at our elevation.

The key to dressing well during early spring and late fall isn’t heavy outerwear, but smart layering that looks intentional, polished and ready for quick weather shifts. We’re giving you lots of choices to protect you from alternately shivering and sweating through spring and fall.

START WITH A STRONG BASE

Whether you’re dressing for errands downtown or a casual workday, begin with breathable basics. Women should consider long-sleeve tees, lightweight knits or crisp button-downs that can stand alone once the day warms up. Men can lean on henleys, oxford shirts or fine-gauge sweaters that layer easily without bulk. Neutral tones — camel, charcoal, olive and cream — work especially well in Prescott’s natural landscape and transition effortlessly between seasons.

If you’re not a fan of neutrals, jewel tones can be a fine alternative with the saturated colors bringing an intensity that brings the warmth and light that

BY BLAKE HERZOG

many people are searching for as they’re transitioning from late winter into spring or late fall into winter.

THE SHACKET: A LOCAL ESSENTIAL

This hybrid shirt-jacket adds structure without the heaviness of a coat, making it ideal for unpredictable temperatures. Women can style a wool or brushed-cotton shacket over leggings or straight-leg denim for a relaxed but put-together look. Men can layer one over a tee or light sweater with dark jeans or chinos for an outfit that feels rugged yet refined. Earth tones and subtle plaids blend seamlessly with the region’s mountaintown vibe.

If you prefer outerwear that’s a little more polished and less of an amalgamation, the barn jacket can be your go-to. They provide great structure through the shoulders, have those great large pockets on the side and look fantastic on men and women alike!

BOOTS THAT MEAN BUSINESS

Boots anchor shoulder-season outfits and offer both style and function. For women, ankle boots or sleek Chelsea boots pair beautifully with denim, midi skirts or tailored trousers. Men

can opt for leather lace-ups or slip-on boots that transition easily from day to night. Look for weather-resistant materials and solid soles — spring mud and fall leaves are part of the Prescott experience.

Boots are a winter classic, so classic that some people can’t wait to wear something else when spring comes. If this applies to you, shop for some chic, well-assembled loafers to keep yourself just warm enough or a pair of suede clogs to keep your toes high, dry and toasty.

SCARVES AND FINISHING TOUCHES

Scarves are more than an accessory here — they’re a practical layer that adds warmth without commitment. Lightweight wool or cotton blends work well for fluctuating temperatures. Drape one loosely during the day, then wrap it tighter once the sun sets. Finish with simple jewelry, a structured tote or a leather crossbody to keep the look elevated rather than overly casual. Scarves come in many shapes and sizes so chances are pretty good you’ll find one that works for your situation. But if you’re looking for something a little more tailored, vests keep your core protected without leaving any ends to tuck in or keep track of.

LAYER WITH INTENTION

The most successful shoulder-season outfits feel flexible, not fussy. Choose pieces you can add or remove throughout the day while still looking great. Dressing well means embracing versatility — layers that move with the weather and a style that feels as effortless as the season itself.

However, not everyone is vigilant enough to keep track of every layer they peel off during the course of the day, especially if they’re running around trying to get a bunch of things done. That’s where smart, adaptable staples come

in — items that work just as well on their own as they do layered. The goal is to stay comfortable without constantly juggling sweaters, jackets or scarves.

There are garments on the market that are versatile enough to get you through the inconstant weather between summer and winter. Cozy knit cardigans offer warmth without adding bulk, while windbreakers provide a healthy dose of protection that may not require more than a base layer. Look for breathable fabrics and clean silhouettes that transition seamlessly through your day.

Beauty & WellnessSERVICES

A Borgata Salon

3755 Karicio Ln., Ste. A

Prescott

928.443.9119 www.aborgatasalon.com

A Dream by Day

721 E. Sheldon St.

Prescott

928.710.4753 www.adreambyday.com

Aria Aesthetics & Permanent Makeup

1955 Commerce Center Cir., Ste. A

Prescott

928.298.5974 www.aria-aesthetics-pmu.com

Aphrodite Aesthetics & Wellness

3619 Crossings Dr., Ste. A

Prescott

928.362.7773 www.aphroditeaestheticsaz.com

A Valley of Vitality

2047 Willow Creek Rd.

Prescott

928.442.6026 www.avalleyofvitality.com

Bella Luna Beauty Salon & Supply

3147 N. Robert Rd.

Prescott Valley

928.775.6706 www.bellalunahair.com

Cashmere Day Spa & Wellness

8600 E. Valley Rd., Ste. D

Prescott Valley 928.499.8271 www.cashmereinclusive.com

Dermatology & Skin Care by Shelly 1598 Susan A Williams Way, Ste. E

Chino Valley

928.499.2915 www.dermatologybyshelly.com

Desert Rose Retreat

Salon + Medspa

701 S. Ruth St.

Prescott

928.778.9798 www.desertroseretreat.com

Enhanced Beauty by Reagan 1320 Iron Springs Rd., Ste. B

Prescott

928.713.5271

www.enhancedbeautybyreagan.as.me

Era Salon & Spa

515 E. Sheldon St.

Prescott

928.778.0860

www.erasalonandspa.com

Essence Hair Salon

705 W. Hillside Ave.

Prescott

928.778.0632

www.facebook.com/ EssenceRelaxation

Exclusively Glamorous

3128 N. Tani Rd.

Prescott Valley

928.910.1747

www.exclusivelyglamorous.com

Hair by Joey 1559 & 1569 W. Gurley St.

Prescott

928.396.1695 www.hairbyjoey.com

Jess D Aesthetics

1320 Iron Springs Rd., Ste. B

Prescott

928.713.6150

www.aboostwellness.net

La Lumière

214 N. McCormick St.

Prescott

928.899.7021

www.lalumierelaser.com

Local Body Bar

1519 W. Gurley St., Ste. D

Prescott

928.224.9014

www.localbodybar.com

LUXE | ABOOST

1320 Iron Springs Rd.

Prescott 928.910.4111 www.aboostwellness.net

continued on page 36

continued from page 34

Nyla D’ Salon

144 N. Montezuma St.

Prescott

928.445.8430 www.nyladsalon.com

Prescott Medical Aesthetics & Wellness

172 E. Merritt St., Ste. E

Prescott 928.277.7414 www.prescottbotox.com

Prescott Skin Care

1000 Willow Creek Rd., Ste. G

Prescott 928.275.1121 www.prescottskin.com

R & R Aesthetics

100 N. Summit Ave., Ste. D

Prescott 928.460.3866 ritualrest.glossgenius.com

Rogers Academy of Beauty 2375 E. AZ-69

Prescott 928.848.9929 www.rogersacademyofbeauty.com

Salon Tru Blu & Day Spa 1436 W. Gurley St.

Prescott 928.445.4126 www.salontrublu.com

Salud Spa

309 E. Gurley St.

Prescott

480.384.0380 www.salud-spa.com

Skin Lounge by J 8148 E. AZ-69

Prescott Valley 928.515.3006 www.facebook.com/skinloungebyj

Skin Perfection Med Spa 3190 Clearwater Dr.

Prescott 928.541.0003 www.skinperfectionaz.com

SkinPlus MedSpa 1747 Willow Creek Rd.

Prescott

928.582.0716 www.skinplusmedspa.com

Sola Salons 1046 Willow Creek Rd., Ste. 105

Prescott

402.680.1206 www.solasalonstudios.com/ locations/willow-creek-road

Strada Salon 931 12th Pl. Prescott 928.778.2028 www.stradasalonaz.com

Studio ROX

720 N. Montezuma St., Ste. A Prescott 928.351.1555 www.studio-rox.com

The Hormone Zone Med Spa

720 N. Montezuma St., Ste. C Prescott

928.813.0366 www.hormonezonemedspa.com

The Rancher’s Wife Salon 2235 S. AZ-89

Chino Valley 928.636.4637 www.facebook.com/ TheRanchersWifeSalon

The Reset Aesthetics and Wellness 1470 W. Gurley St.

Prescott

928.277.8860

www.theresetaesthetics.com

Whiskey and Willow Salon and Boutique 1511 W. Gurley St. Prescott 928.642.3236 www.whiskeyandwillowaz.com

Wilson Aesthetics

Beauty & Wellness 8196 E. Florentine Rd. Prescott Valley 928.350.5484 www.wilsonaestheticsaz.com

K-Beauty's Innovations KEEP IT AT THE HEAD OF THE INDUSTRY

Korean-manufactured aesthetic products made their first splash in the U.S. 15 years ago and have steadily grown in popularity since, recently becoming the largest cosmetics importer in the United States. That’s largely been fueled by the pace at which the country’s been able to innovate and update its brands.

What started as a wave of glass skin trends and cute packaging has evolved into a research-driven movement powered by biotech labs, ingredient breakthroughs and a new vision of what healthy skin can look like.

The biggest shift has come from microbiome science. Korean brands were early to treat the skin as its own ecosystem, but recent advances allowed them to pinpoint specific strains of probiotics that calm inflammation and strengthen the barrier. Serums that once felt like nice extras now perform like recovery treatments. Consumers with sensitive skin, who used to patch test everything, finally have options that support resilience instead of only masking irritation.

At the same time, Korea doubled down on fermentation. It is not new, but refined methods created smaller, more stable molecules that reach deeper layers of the skin. Ingredients such as fermented mugwort and ginseng no longer sit on top of the surface. They boost clarity and brightness from within, which explains why so many viral before and after clips show dramatic changes from products that look deceptively simple.

Home LED masks shifted from bulky, scifi gear to lightweight face-fitting panels with safer wavelengths and smarter timing controls. Some brands added cooling plates and micro vibration to increase circulation. For many users, what used to require a clinic visit now fits into a nightly routine.

The sunscreen category saw its own revolution. New formulas brought higher protection with a texture closer to moisturizer than SPF. Filters that once left a white cast now blend invisibly even on deeper skin tones. Beauty editors have called this the end of the “sunscreen struggle,” and for good reason. Habit-friendly SPF might be the most important public health move the industry has made.

What ties these advances together is a shift toward effortlessness. K-beauty is learning to do more with less. Instead of 10-step routines, the trend points to smart, compact rituals powered by ingredients that work harder. The result is skin care that respects the user’s time, supports long-term health and feels good enough to stick with.

Style & Services

Adorn Interiors

134 N. Cortez St.

Prescott

928.445.3505

www.adorninteriordesigns.com

Afterglow Jewelers

7025 E. Florentine Rd., Ste. 106

Prescott Valley 928.515.3552

www.afterglowjewelers.com

Amish Home Decor

2710 N. Glassford Hill Rd.

Prescott Valley 928.277.8267

www.amishfurniturepv.com

Artful Eye Jewelry Design Center

124 S. Montezuma St.

Prescott

928.445.5570

www.artfuleyejewelers.com

Bashford Courts

130. W. Gurley St.

Prescott 928.642.7984 www.bashfordcourts.com

Bella Home Furnishings

115 W. Willis St.

Prescott

928.458.7275

Black Arrow Jewelry & Art

Blush & Cactus Boutique

121 N. Cortez St.

Prescott

928.277.1174

www.blushandcactus.com

Carrie Weldon Gallery & Boutique

219 W. Gurley St.

Prescott

928.910.6402

www.carrieweldon.com

Classy N Sassy

220 W. Goodwin St., No. 3

Prescott

928.776.7467

www.facebook.com/ NewClassyNSassyBoutique

Creations in Thread

1046 Willow Creek Rd., Ste. 101

Prescott

928.800.2270

www.creationsinthread.com

Drawn West

134 W. Gurley St.

Prescott

928.778.5725

www.drawnwestaz.com

Drifter's

130 W. Gurley St., Ste. 101

Prescott

928.458.7131

www.prescottdrifters.com

Fancy That!

109 S. Granite St. & 124 S. Granite St. No. A

Prescott

928.445.1883

www.fancythatprescott.com

continued on page 42

continued from page 40

Fite Girls Boutique

210 S. Montezuma St.

Prescott

928.445.3524 www.facebook.com/fitelikeagirl

French Hen Boutique

212 W. Gurley St.

Prescott

928.445.3424

Frontier Village Center 1841 E. AZ-69

Prescott 928.777.0532 www.frontier-village.com

Goldmine Jewelers

106 S. Montezuma St.

Prescott 928.442.9167

Gypsy Vibes Boutique

103 N. Cortez St.

Prescott 928.583.9554 www.gypsyvibesboutique.com

IdentiFreed

102 Montezuma St.

Prescott

602.413.8909 www.identifreed.org

Joe’s Furniture

3787 Karicio Ln.

Prescott 928.778.7593 www.joesfurnitureaz.com

Lamerson’s Jewelery

105 N. Cortez St.

Prescott 928.771.0921 www.lamersonjewelry.com

Lost in Socks

130 W. Gurley St., Ste. 303

Prescott 928.445.1833 www.facebook.com/LostInSocks

Mariposas Lifestyle Boutique

225 W. Gurley St.

Prescott 928.583.2778

Old Firehouse Plaza

220 W. Goodwin St.

Prescott 928.925.6111

www.oldfirehouseplaza.com

Palomino Lifestyle Co.

107 E. Gurley St.

Prescott 928.350.6268 www.palominolifestyleco.com

Personal Touch Jeweler

377 N. Montezuma St., Ste. A-106

Prescott 928.420.8230

Prescott Consignment Galleries

415 S. Montezuma St.

Prescott 928.443.8665

Pine Ridge Marketplace

3250 Gateway Blvd.

Prescott 928.442.3605 www.pineridgemarketplace.com

Purple Clover Boutique

130 W. Gurley St., Ste. 205 Prescott 928.499.5195

www.purplecloverprescott.shop

Queen Esther’s Closet

7025 E. Florentine Rd., Ste. 104 Prescott Valley 928.899.5516

Raskin’s Jewelers

110 W. Gurley St.

Prescott

928.445.6120

www.raskinsjewelers.com

Scarlett’s Curated Collection

107 N. Cortez St., Ste. 100

Prescott

928.227.2581

www.scarlettsinprescott.com

SMARTgirls Resale Fashion

7025 E. Florentine Rd., Ste. 107

Prescott Valley 928.772.1227

www.smartgirlsfashion.com

The Clothes Hound 122 S. Montezuma St. Prescott 928.771.0811

www.clotheshoundclothingco.com

The Hike Shack 104 N. Montezuma St. Prescott 928.443.8565 www.thehikeshack.com

Three Sisters Consignment

4077 N. AZ-89

Prescott 928.777.0107

www.threesistersconsignment.com

Wardrobe

520 W. Sheldon St., Ste. 2A

Prescott

310.709.8099

Whatever Was

124 S. Granite St. Prescott 928.778.4186

www.facebook.com/pastafajole

Practical B obs TAKING MANY FORMS IN 2026 STYLISH,

The hair story of 2026 is short, sharp and full of confidence.

After years of long layers and easy waves, the bob has returned as the defining cut of the year, bringing its partner in crime along with it: the micro bang. Together they create a look that reads bold without trying too hard, a mix of clean structure and slight rebellion that fits the moment.

What makes this wave different from past bob eras is the range. Stylists are not pushing a single silhouette. They are treating the bob as a framework that can shift to match personality. The French bob remains a star, sitting at jaw length with soft ends and a hint of natural texture. It is the kind of cut that moves well in real life, landing somewhere between undone and intentional.

Paired with micro bangs that skim just above the brows, the effect is artful and a little mischievous.

On the more experimental side is the shag hybrid bob. It looks like a classic bob collided with a light shag, then settled into a shape with built in lift. Micro layers around the crown give volume without heavy styling. The front pieces open up the face, while short, choppy bangs keep the whole look energetic. This style suits anyone who wants the freedom of a shorter cut without losing that rock and roll edge.

The blunt bob also is having a moment again. Clean lines, sharp perimeter, no fuss. Micro bangs turn it into a statement, shifting the mood from severe to modern and cool. This pairing works especially well for

straight or thick hair, but stylists are using soft texturizing techniques to make it wearable for curls too.

What ties all these versions together is a shift in attitude.

The trend is not about perfection. It is about revealing the face, showing natural movement and keeping daily styling low key. A quick blow dry or a dab of styling cream is usually enough. The focus is on shape and confidence, not complexity.

If the oversized, airy looks of the aughts spoke to comfort, the bobs and micro bangs of 2026 tell a story of clarity. They give people permission to show their features, claim their space and enjoy the ease that comes with a cut designed to work with real life.

Keep Lashesyour On Trend

Soft or striking, today’s lash looks are made to flatter. You may have heard the super-fluffy sets that were dominating the lash extension scene in past years are not as popular these days as clients and salons are embracing more natural looks.

If you’re still looking for a heightened appearance for your lashes without seeming too overdone, ask about some of these trends making waves with aestheticians and fashionistas alike.

HYBRID LASHES

We’re talking about more of an application method than a specific look, but hybrid lashes provide the best of both the “classic” and “volume” lash techniques and can pull off an arrestingly natural look when done by an experienced lash tech.

You can still have the longer, fuller lashes, just not as many. But they can be placed at the center or the ends of your

lids for a high-impact enhancement or styled for a more “open-eye” look or a softer, more rounded one.

WISPY LASHES

These are the closest to the natural look you can get while still adding a little extra pizzazz over your eyes. Here the extensions alternate in length from short to long and back again for a less uniform line that looks like it could be home-grown but is a little more interesting than how many of your 150 or so lashes per eye actually grow out.

Wispy lashes are great for professional wear as well as everyday settings.

WET SETS

As you can imagine, the wet look (also known as the angel look) leans pretty heavily into the spiky finish, though the individual spikes aren’t as bold and dramatic as you may have previously seen. You’ll probably find this look on

a more fashion-forward, textured lid without overdoing the “fluff.” It doesn’t add any weight to your own lashes either.

TEXTURED STRIP-LASH LOOK

Inspired by the polished definition of press-on lashes but completely customized to your lash line, this new trend uses styling maps and subtle lash layering to create a clean, bold top line without the bulk. It gives you the lifted look of a strip lash while staying lightweight and wearable for everyday life.

This is the go-to for photo shoots, events or clients who want a perfected lash line without committing to heavier volume sets.

Whether you love barely-there lashes or bold, spiked drama, today’s lash trends let you strike a balance between effortless beauty and eyecatching style.

Fashion & Flawless: Confidence, Creativity

and Commerce in Prescott

BY SHERI HEINEY, PRESIDENT & CEO OF THE PRESCOTT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Prescott’s sense of style goes far beyond clothing — it reflects confidence, creativity and a strong connection to community. From polished professionals and entrepreneurs to creatives and families, fashion in Prescott is about showing up authentically while embracing the charm and character that make our city unique.

Our local boutiques, salons, wellness providers and service-based businesses play an essential role in helping individuals look and feel their best. Whether it’s finding the perfect outfit for a special event, refreshing a professional look or simply boosting confidence through self-care, these businesses understand that style is personal. They blend modern trends with Prescott’s Western roots, historic downtown flair and welcoming small-town feel.

The idea of being “flawless” isn’t about perfection — it’s about confidence. It’s the

confidence of a business owner opening their doors each morning, the confidence of a professional stepping into a new opportunity, and the confidence that comes from supporting local and knowing your choices matter. When we shop local, we invest in people, jobs and the longterm vitality of our community.

The Prescott Chamber of Commerce is proud to support the businesses that help shape this vibrant and dynamic local economy. From retail and beauty to health, hospitality and professional services, our Chamber members contribute to a culture in which success is built on relationships, creativity and pride in place.

These businesses understand that confidence fuels growth — and growth strengthens community.

As we celebrate the Fashion & Flawless magazine theme this season,

I encourage residents and visitors alike to explore Prescott’s locally owned businesses. Discover the shops that help express your personal style, the services that help you feel confident, and the people behind them who are passionate about what they do.

In Prescott, fashion isn’t just about what we wear — it’s about how we support one another, how we show up for our community, and how we shine together.

The Prescott Chamber of Commerce has served as the leading advocate for business and economic vitality in the region for more than 100 years. Representing over 1,200 member businesses, the Chamber provides leadership, education and collaboration to support business growth, workforce development, tourism and community prosperity throughout Prescott and western Yavapai County.

June 29 - july 5

Jim Dewey own

A week of grit, glory, and cowboy spirit

Don’t miss your chance to be part of histor y Tickets for the 2026 World’s Oldest Rodeo® will go on sale March 2026.

Stay tuned for our in-person pre-sale ticket event in Februar y 2026. Download our rodeo app at “Rodeo1888” for

Secure your tickets early as we honor 139 years of rodeo traditions.

OF GROWTH,

LEARNING & LEADERSHIP IN PRESCOTT VALLEY A Season

BY STEVE BRACETY, PRESIDENT/CEO, PRESCOTT VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

As winter fades and the promise of spring approaches, February and March mark one of the most energizing seasons for business in Prescott Valley. These months are a bridge between reflection and renewed momentum and a time when ideas take shape, partnerships deepen and business leaders set their sights on growth.

At the Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce, we are proud to stand beside our business community during this season of opportunity, providing the tools, connections and celebrations that fuel success.

February sets the tone for strategic planning and professional development.

As businesses prepare for the year ahead, the Chamber remains focused on education and empowerment. One of our cornerstone initiatives is the Prescott Valley Chamber Business Academy, designed to equip entrepreneurs, executives and emerging leaders with practical knowledge and real-world strategies.

Through expert-led sessions, participants gain insight into financial management, marketing, leadership, operations and scaling for sustainable growth. The academy is a launchpad for confidence, innovation and collaboration.

March brings with it not only longer days and renewed energy, but also one of the Chamber’s most meaningful celebrations of leadership and impact. On March 6, the Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce will proudly host our International Women’s Day Luncheon Celebration, an event dedicated to honoring the achievements, resilience and influence of women in business and throughout our community.

This annual gathering brings together entrepreneurs, professionals, nonprofit leaders and advocates to recognize the powerful role women play in shaping our local economy and quality of life.

International Women’s Day is more than a date on the calendar. It is

a global movement celebrating progress and calls for continued advancement. At our luncheon, attendees will experience inspiring stories, meaningful connections and the collective energy that comes from lifting one another up.

It is a space where mentorship is sparked, partnerships are formed and the next generation of leaders finds encouragement.

Together, February and March represent a season of momentum for the business community. These months reflect what the Chamber does best: connect, educate and elevate. As businesses prepare for a strong spring and summer, the Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce remains a trusted partner, advocating for opportunities, investing in people and building a resilient local economy.

The season ahead is bright. Together we are building a future rooted in collaboration, innovation and shared prosperity.

Keeping it Local: Chino Valley Style

BY SHERI HEINEY, PRESIDENT & CEO, CHINO VALLEY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

When it comes to style in Chino Valley, we don’t have to look very far to find it. It’s right here in our own community — inside our local boutiques, salons and small businesses that work hard every day to take care of their neighbors.

Shopping local in Chino Valley means more than finding a great outfit or getting a fresh haircut. It means supporting business owners who know your name, remember your preferences and genuinely care about the people who walk through their doors.

Our local boutiques offer styles that fit real life — comfortable, practical and just

a little special — perfect for work, school events and everything in between.

Our local beauty salons and service providers play a big role too. Whether it’s a haircut before a big event, a little self-care or just taking time for yourself, these businesses help people feel confident and ready to take on the day. When you support them, you’re supporting families who live here, work here and give back to the community.

That’s how Chino Valley brings the magazine’s Fashion & Flawless theme to life. It’s not about chasing trends or spending money somewhere else. It’s

about choosing to shop local, knowing your dollars stay right here and help keep our community strong.

The Chino Valley Area Chamber of Commerce is proud of the small businesses that make our town what it is. Every purchase made locally helps keep storefronts open, creates jobs and strengthens the connections that make small-town life so special.

Next time you’re looking for something new to wear, a gift or a little self-care, consider starting right here in Chino Valley. You may be surprised at just how much style — and heart — you’ll find close to home.

For more information about the Chino Valley Area Chamber of Commerce, please visit www.chinovalley.org or call us at 928.636.2493

Murphy’s Story

We first learned of Murphy’s dire situation in September 2023. He was being discarded for $200, described as “loved and well cared for,” with claims that aggressive mustangs required him to be confined to a small stall for his own safety.

Saddle Up 2026

When our transport arrived, the reality was heartbreaking. Before us stood a broken, bleeding, burned, and emaciated elderly burro — nothing like the well-cared-for animal portrayed in the plea. Murphy bore the physical evidence of long-term neglect and cruelty.

In his more than 20 years of life, Murphy had never known kindness. The scars of past atrocities remain, making trust slow and fragile. He may never be comfortable being handled or fully at ease with humans.

Yet at Healing River Ranch, Murphy has found what he was always denied — safety, companionship, and compassion. In our senior burro habitat, he has formed friendships and now lives surrounded by patience and love. Through the sanctuary’s

protection, Murphy is finally experiencing the life he always deserved.

Murphy’s story is one of countless others we have witnessed — animals whose lives began with neglect, fear, and heartbreak. Each journey to sanctuary is long and often painful, yet it is a path that leads to safety, care, and hope. Thanks to the compassion and generosity of our donors, we are able to meet each animal at their moment of greatest need, offering not just survival, but a life filled with dignity, kindness, and love. Every contribution helps transform heartbreak into healing, fear into trust, and neglect into a forever home. Through this shared mission, animals like Murphy can finally experience the life they were always meant to live.

Dust off your boots. Saddle up for good.

JUNE 5-7 TWO TICKETS. TWO EXPERIENCES. ONE WESTERN WEEKEND.

Choose how you join us at Buckin’ Burro Ranch:

• WEEKEND PASS – HORSE CAMP & TRAIL RIDE

Includes the full ranch weekend: guided trail rides (bring your own horse), meals, ranch activities plus Saturday Night, Shindig admission.

• SHINDIG-ONLY TICKET – SATURDAY NIGHT

Join us Saturday evening for live music, cocktails, dinner, auctions, and stories of salvation from Healing River Ranch (No horse or weekend stay required.)

4-4:30 PM: Howdy & Registration

4–6 PM: Cocktails, Silent Auction & Live Western Music

6 PM: Dinner Service

6:30 PM: Emcee Welcome, Ranch Stories & Impact Video

7:30-9:30 PM: Dancing, Hats Off & Good Nights

Come for one — or make it a full western experience and enjoy both. Purchase separately or get The Shindig included with Weekend Pass. All proceeds benefit Animal Guardian Network, providing lifelong care for animals in need. Questions or sponsorship inquiries? Contact Carrie 602.568.5636

QR

FOR TICKETS OR VISIT: https://Saddleup2026.eventbrite.com

GREG MENGARELLI AUCTIONEER

Our sanctuary is a forever home for elderly, special-needs, and hospice animals — those often overlooked or forgotten — who were once destined for euthanasia or slaughter. Here, they live out their lives surrounded by safety, dignity, love and enrichment.

THERE ARE MANY MEANINGFUL WAYS TO SUPPORT OUR

We are sustained entirely through grants, donations and fundraising efforts and receive no government funding. Every dollar donated goes directly toward providing life-saving care and lifelong sanctuary for animals in need.

Prescott Frontier Days® — World’s Oldest Rodeo® Wins Prestigious

Sowing Good Deeds Award

The Sowing Good Deeds Award — an annual honor developed by the agricultural machinery manufacturer Massey Ferguson — recognizes help given to charities, community involvement and educational events by local Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association (PRCA) committees focusing on schools, cities and the youth-oriented agricultural community.

The winning rodeo committee, Prescott Frontier Days® — World’s Oldest Rodeo®, won a new Massey Ferguson tractor with loader, valued at over $60,000, as the grand prize winner named at the PRCA awards banquet in December in Las Vegas.

The Sowing Good Deeds award highlights the generosity of PFD and how the organization gives back to the community. PFD mentions and thanks the following groups:

• Yvonne Gibbs, PFD volunteer who organized and prepared the information for the award.

• Folks at Massey Ferguson, who have indeed helped lift up the community.

• General Manager Jim Dewey Brown and PFD rodeo office staff who scoured their computers for the dates, times and places where giving was done.

• PFD rodeo committee chairs and board of directors, who gave so much of their time and hearts to make events successful.

• The Prescott community and other local cities who attended Prescott Frontier Days® — World’s Oldest Rodeo® events and gave so willingly.

Matt LeCroy, director, sales west for Massey Ferguson North America, said, “Rodeos play a crucial role in the cultural and economic landscape of America, yet they often go underappreciated. These groups dedicate themselves to uplifting their communities — not only by boosting local economies but also by supporting agricultural youth programs like FFA and 4-H, which are essential to the future of our industry.

“The Sowing Good Deeds initiative highlights the generosity and hard work of rodeo committees across the country. We’re honored to celebrate these dedicated individuals who generously contribute their time and skills to strengthen agricultural communities.”

Prescott Frontier Days thanks LeCroy and the Hesston Massey Ferguson team, for a spectacular night and exceptional generosity. For a more complete look at how the Prescott rodeo gives back to the community, please see the new “We Rodeo We Give” page at https://worldsoldestrodeo. com/we-rodeo-we-give or scan the QR code.

Other PFD award or event recognitions at the 2025 National Finals Rodeo include:

• WPRA (Women’s Professional Rodeo Association), Justin Boots Best Footing Award, Turquoise Rodeo Circuit, 1st Place

• Justin Boots Crisis Fund, PFD raised $35,000 for injured cowboys

PFD Team at the 2025 PRCA Awards Ceremony

SUBMITTED BY DONNA WERKING, NORTHERN AZ SOCIAL, LLC, PHOTO BY JOSEPH WONG, TKG STUDIOS

Blades & Bravery

Performing January 31 & February 1 ONLY

Jacques ze Whipper

Performing February 7, 8, 14, 15 & 16

Dungeons & Shakespeare

Performing February 21, 22 & 28 March 1, 7 & 8 ONLY

Tiny Girl Big Show

Performing March 14, 15 21, 22, 28 & 29 ONLY

RWOP Received Top Awards from

State Federation of Republican Women

SUBMITTED BY BARBARA ERNST, RWOP

Republican Women of Prescott (RWOP) received the highest Turquoise Award for Recognition of Achievements and a first place for social media during the biennial state convention of the Arizona Federation of Republican Women.

Thirty-one Republican women’s clubs throughout Arizona convened in Mesa in October for a three-day convention. Achievement, campaign hours, teacher of the year, website and social media awards were presented.

Each day was packed full of meetings and presentations including election

of the state group’s 2026-2027 officers and region directors; keynote speakers Julie Harris, National Federation of Republican Women president, and KC Crosbie, Republican National Committee co-chair; speeches from Republican political candidates; and a special tribute to Charlie Kirk presented by Tyler Bowyer from Turning Point USA.

Prior to the convention, local President Sue Davis attended the National Federation of Republican Women (NFRW) Convention in Orlando, Florida, alongside 1,200 women from throughout the nation. RWOP

was honored to receive the national group’s highest prestigious Diamond Award for excellence in membership development, campaign activities, programs, community relations, leadership development and club functions.

President Trump kicked off the meeting by live video, and Tulsi Gabbard, United States Director of National Intelligence, was the first in-person convention speaker.

Established in 1942, Republican Women of Prescott is the largest Republican Women’s Club in the United States.

Prescott Task Force: EMPOWERING TEENS,

Enriching Community

BY SAMARA RICE, RECREATION COORDINATOR, CITY OF PRESCOTT RECREATION SERVICES

The City of Prescott Teen Task Force is a growing, energetic program dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities for local teens to connect, create and contribute.

Guided by coordinators Amber Fraser and me, the task force focuses on providing safe, engaging and enriching activities that help young people build confidence, develop new skills and discover their unique voices within the community.

At its core, the Teen Task Force stands for empowerment, inclusion and creativity. The program is built on the belief that teens thrive when given space to explore their interests, express themselves and work together toward shared goals.

Whether through hands-on projects, social events or community

engagement, the task force strives to create a welcoming environment where every teen feels seen, supported and inspired.

One of the program’s signature events is the annual Fashion and Talent Show, a celebration of style, performance and self-expression. Participants select outfits from local businesses that often donate clothing for the event, showcase personal talents and step onto a stage that encourages courage and creativity.

Beyond the excitement, the show helps teens cultivate public speaking abilities, collaboration skills and friendships that often last long after the final bow.

Throughout the year, the task force offers a variety of craft activities, workshops and community projects.

From art sessions and DIY creations to volunteer initiatives that make a positive impact in Prescott, teens are encouraged to explore their interests while giving back to the city they call home.

Looking ahead in 2026, the Teen Task Force plans to expand its focus on career-building and team-building skills, offering opportunities to learn about workplace communication, leadership and real-world responsibilities. With each new project and event, the goal remains clear: to uplift local teens, celebrate their talents and help them grow into confident, connected members of the community.

If you are a local teen interested in joining the City of Prescott Recreation Services Teen Task Force, please email TeenTaskForce@prescott-az.gov for more information.

Vivili Hospitality Expands TO DOWNTOWN PHOENIX WITH 3 NEW RESTAURANTS

Prescott-based restaurant group Vivili Hospitality Group is bringing its signature approach to hospitality to downtown Phoenix with a $4 million multiconcept investment near Roosevelt Row at First and Portland streets. Construction is underway on Hero, PIZZANISTA! and Bar Saint Bruno, with the first opening planned for early 2026.

The expansion marks the next chapter for founder Skyler Reeves, whose people-first philosophy has turned Vivili into a regional success story built on community, consistency and genuine connection. Vivili employs more than 125 people across five eateries — La Planchada, The Barley Hound, Rosa’s Pizzeria in downtown Prescott, Rosa’s Pizzeria in Prescott Valley and Taco Don’s. Reeves also founded The County Seat, which he sold to a new operator.

Now, Reeves and his team are bringing that same spirit south with three distinct hospitality concepts. Hero will be located on First and Roosevelt streets in downtown Phoenix, while

PIZZANISTA! and Bar Saint Bruno will debut directly across the way.

Hero, a 2,800-square-foot Italian restaurant with an additional 2,500-square-foot patio, celebrates handmade pasta, timeless cocktails and genuine hospitality. Designed as a lively neighborhood spot, it blends the energy of an Italian trattoria with the warmth of a local favorite.

PIZZANISTA!, a 1,200-square-foot fast-casual pizza shop that serves slices and pies, comes to Arizona through a collaboration with legendary skateboarder Salman Agah, founder of the original PIZZANISTA! in Los Angeles. Known for its cult following and creative partnerships with brands like Vans and Thrasher Magazine, the Phoenix location channels the concept’s street-culture roots with quick and casual indoor seating and limited-edition merchandise drops, pop-ups and art-driven events that reflect Roosevelt Row’s creative energy.

Bar Saint Bruno, a 1,600-square-foot late-night cocktail bar tucked behind PIZZANISTA!, was inspired by one of Reeves’ late industry mentors.

The moody, intimate space is designed for conversation and connection, serving classic cocktails made with care in a setting that feels familiar from the first visit.

“Downtown Phoenix just feels real to me,” Reeves said. “I’ve had a place here for years now, and I spend a lot of time walking around, meeting people, seeing how much heart this area has. I didn’t want to parachute in; I wanted to build something that belongs here. Hero, PIZZANISTA! and Bar Saint Bruno are places for the neighborhood, not just in the neighborhood.”

Vivili has partnered with John Sofio and awardwinning Built Inc. to design and MCI Builders to build all three concepts. Both firms bring extensive experience in hospitality projects and have been key collaborators in translating Vivili’s creative vision for Phoenix.

Reeves also partnered with long-time friend and the “Godfather of the LA cocktail scene” Vincenzo Marianello to collaborate on the cocktail program, and tapped Yuji Iwasa to lead as culinary director and develop the food menu for Hero.

Prescott Valley Improvements EXPAND ACCESS TO GLASSFORD SUMMIT, IRON KING TRAILS

The Town of Prescott Valley Parks and Recreation Department has completed a project along Jasper Parkway, after crews cut in a new 6-foot wide, 1,300 linear foot (about a quarter-mile) walking path along the west side of Jasper Parkway.

This new path will connect the sidewalk on the north end of Jasper Parkway south to the Glassford Summit Trail. This project aims to continue the Town’s efforts to provide safe alternative routes of transportation for the public, further enhancing the connectivity within the pathway system. Once finished, this project will complete the connection

between the Summit Trail and Iron King Trail, allowing users full access to both.

An additional phase of this project is construction of a new trailhead for Summit Trail. This trailhead will be located on the west side of Jasper, adjacent to the existing trail. This trailhead will allow users to avoid having to use the at-grade crossing currently in place for Summit Trail.

The existing trailhead on Castle Drive will remain open for the public to use, continuing to offer parking and access to the Glassford Summit Trail. A solar-powered pedestrian crosswalk also

has been installed on Jasper Parkway near the Glassford Summit Trailhead. This is the first of three new solar-powered crosswalk projects designed to improve safety in Prescott Valley. When preparing to cross, press the button to activate the enhanced crossing. Drivers are reminded to use extra caution when lights are flashing.

Additional crosswalks have been installed on Skoog Boulevard between the Arizona Agribusiness and Equine Center and the Civic Center and at the intersection of Nace Lane and Robert Road.

Jasper crosswalk PHOTO COURTESY OF TOWN OF PRESCOTT VALLEY

Yavapai Exploration and Science Injects

STEAM Energy

BY NANCY DEWITT, OWNER, PATRIOT PEST & TERMITE CONTROL

With a 15-year career teaching multiple K-6 grades and serving as an administrator and teacher mentor, Amanda Voss saw a gap in hands-on, science-based learning opportunities outside the classroom. Now, she’s working to change that for her daughter and for other children, too.

Voss quit her job and launched a nonprofit, Yavapai Exploration and Science (YES!), in June 2024 as a volunteer and has already reached 16,000 Greater Prescott families with activities tied to STEAM-related lessons — that’s science,

technology, engineering, arts and math, an extension of the more widely known STEM acronym. She works with a core of about eight regular volunteers and collaborates with other groups for larger events.

Time is of the essence for reaching younger children, she says: “I’ve seen some research now that kids decide by the age of 7 whether they can or cannot do science. And that’s really heartbreaking to me that a kid has decided what they’re good at. No 7-yearold should already be limiting themselves to what they think they can do. It’s a huge driver for me.”

YES! sponsors monthly classes at the Prescott, Prescott Valley and Chino Valley libraries that draw many homeschooling kids and others with hands-on activities like testing food for starch, learning about crystallization by growing their own snowflakes, finding out how salt melts ice on roads, building their own candy dispensers and ‘melting’ pumpkins to learn about chemical reactions.

It also hosts a table at the free Nature Niños programs held monthly at parks throughout the Prescott area, hosting one art and one science activity plus a sensory bin for the youngest children to

dig around in. The program also brings activities onto local campuses, including a summer program at Humboldt Unified School District and runs Friday clubs at Prescott Valley Charter School.

Its biggest event and chief fundraiser, the Explorer’s Challenge, debuted last May and its second edition is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 9 at Granite Creek Park, extended by an hour to expand its capacity.

It will include five activity stations hosted by YES! open to kids with paid tickets, and five hosted by other nonprofits free for everyone. Prescott Unified School District’s Outdoor Learning Initiative and the Girl Scouts are among the participants booked for this year.

“We’re also talking to GenTech from the Valley, they do a lot of computer programming, they’re interested in coming down and bringing drones and stuff like that for the really tech-heavy side,” Voss says. Last year’s event, which 262 kids attended, featured a fighter jet flight simulator brought by Prescott-based True Course Simulations and diversions like a DJ, lawn games, the Bubbleguy from Unlimited Bubbles and more for a kids’ party-like atmosphere.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF AMANDA VOSS

The suggested age range for YES! activities is 5 to 12, though all learners are welcome. Priscilla Rincon of Prescott says her 3-year-old daughter Isabella has already been able to benefit from going to library classes as well as last year’s Explorer’s Challenge.

“There was a battery activity where you build a little robot and that kind of frustrated her because she needed

just a little bit more dexterity, so I helped her with it, and once we got it she was really excited and felt rewarded,” Rincon says.

Voss’ long-term goal is to open a children’s science center and museum in Yavapai County. For more information and to donate to YES! visit www.yes-az.org or www.facebook.com/YESPrescott call 928.432.5463

“I’ve seen some research now that kids decide by the age of 7 whether they can or cannot do science.”

2025 Explorer’s Challenge

Education DIRECTORY

UNIVERSITIES/ COLLEGES

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University 3700 Willow Creek Rd. Prescott 928.777.6600 www.prescott.erau.edu

Northern Arizona University - Prescott Campus 1100 E. Sheldon St. Prescott 928.523.8047 www.nau.edu/statewidecampuses/nau-yavapai-college

Northern Arizona University - Yavapai

2972 Centerpointe E. Dr. Prescott 928.523.2988 http://legacy.nau.edu/statewidecampuses/nau-yavapai

Prescott College 220 Grove Ave. Prescott 877.350.2100 www.prescott.edu

Yavapai College 1100 E. Sheldon St. Prescott 928.717.7777 www.yc.edu

Yavapai College Chino Valley Center 2275 Old Home Manor Dr. Chino Valley 928.717.7720 www.yc.edu

Yavapai College

Prescott Valley Center 3800 N. Glassford Hill Rd. Prescott Valley 928.717.7911 www.yc.edu

TECHNICAL & TRADE SCHOOLS

Career & Technical Education Center (CTEC) 220 Ruger Rd., Ste. 1 Prescott 928.776.2002 www.yc.edu/ctec

Leighnor Aircraft LLC 6418 Mac Curdy Dr. Prescott 928.499.3080 www.leighnoraircraft.com

Mountain Institute Career Technical Education District (CTED)

220 Ruger Rd., Ste. 2 Prescott 928.771.0791 www.micted.net

Bright Futures Preschool Humboldt Unified School District 8601 E. Loos Dr. Prescott Valley 928.759.5130 bf.humboldtunified.com

Montessori Children's Academy 630 Park Ave., Unit A Prescott 928.445.0649 www.mcaprescott.org

Rogers Academy of Beauty 2375 E. AZ-69 Prescott 928.848.9929 www.rogersacademyofbeauty.com

PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS

Chino Valley Unified School District No. 51 650 E. Center St. Chino Valley 928.636.2458 www.chinovalleyschools.com

Humboldt Unified School District

6901 Panther Path Prescott Valley 928.759.4000 www.humboldtunified.com

Prescott Unified School District No. 1 300 E. Gurley St. Prescott 928.445.5400 www.prescottschools.com

Mayer Unified School District No. 43 P.O. Box 1059 12606 E. Main St. Mayer 928.642.1000 www.mayerschools.org

Yavapai Accommodation School District No. 99 K-12

2972 Centerpointe E. Dr. Prescott 928.759.8126 www.yavapaicountyhighschool.com

PRESCHOOLS

American Lutheran School private school 1085 Scott Dr. Prescott 928.778.7049 www.americanlutheranschool.com

Busy Bee Learning Center 8665 E. Florentine Rd. Prescott Valley 928.772.6333

Cedar Tree Montessori private school 129 N. Pleasant St. Prescott 928.771.8785 www.cedartreemontessori.com

Cornerstone Christian Preschool private school

700 W. Rosser St. Prescott 928.771.2754 www.prescottcornerstone.com

Discovery Gardens Preschool Prescott Unified School District 300 E. Gurley St. Prescott 928.442.1283 dgardens.prescottschools.com

God's World 3950 N. Valorie Dr. Prescott Valley 928.772.0460

James Family Prescott YMCA 750 Whipple St. Prescott 928.445.7221 www.prescottymca.org/ preschool

Leap & Learn Preschool 7175 E. 2nd St, Ste. B Prescott Valley 928.800.1488 www.leaplearnpreschool.com

Little Explorers Learning Academy 12150 E. Turquoise Cir. Dewey 928.379.5068 www.littleexplorersaz.com

Valley Learning Center 2235 AZ-89, Ste. 1 Chino Valley 928.636.1656 www.valleylearningcenters.net

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS

Abia Judd Elementary School Prescott Unified School District 1749 Williamson Valley Rd. Prescott 928.717.3263 aj.prescottschools.com

Coyote Springs Elementary School Humboldt Unified School District 6625 N. Cattletrack Dr. Prescott Valley 928.759.4300 cs.humboldtunified.com

Del Rio Elementary School Chino Valley Unified School District 1036 N. Road 1 W. Chino Valley 928.636.4414 drs.chinovalleyschools.com

Granite Mountain Upper Elementary School

Prescott Unified School District 1800 Williamson Valley Rd. Prescott 928.717.3253 granitem.prescottschools.com

Granville Elementary School

Humboldt Unified School District 5250 N. Stover Dr. Prescott Valley 928.759.4800 ge.humboldtunified.com

Humboldt Elementary School Humboldt Unified School District 2750 S. Corral St. Humboldt 928.759.4400 he.humboldtunified.com

Lake Valley Elementary School Humboldt Unified School District 3900 N. Starlight Dr. Prescott Valley 928.759.4200 lv.humboldtunified.com

Liberty Traditional School

Humboldt Unified School District

K-8

3300 N. Lake Valley Rd.

Prescott Valley 928.759.4500 lib.humboldtunified.com

Lincoln Elementary School

Prescott Unified School District 201 Park Ave.

Prescott 928.717.3249 lincoln.prescottschools.com

Mayer Elementary School

Mayer Unified School District No. 43 12568 E. Main St.

Mayer 928.642.1101 www.mayerel.mayerschools.org

Mountain View

Elementary School

Humboldt Unified School District 8601 E. Loos Dr. Prescott Valley 928.759.4700 mv.humboldtunified.com

Taylor Hicks

Elementary School

Prescott Unified School District 1845 Campbell Ave.

Prescott 928.717.3276 taylorh.prescottschools.com

Territorial Early Childhood Center

Chino Valley Unified School District

Preschool-2nd Grade 1088 Mahan Ln. Chino Valley

928.636.3842

tecc.chinovalleyschools.com

MIDDLE SCHOOLS

Bradshaw Mountain Middle School

Humboldt Unified School District 12255 Turquoise Cir. Dewey 928.759.4900 ms.humboldtunified.com

Heritage Middle School

Chino Valley Unified School District

1076 N. Road 1 W. Chino Valley

928.636.4464 hms.chinovalleyschools.com

Prescott Mile High Middle School

Prescott Unified School District

300 S. Granite St.

Prescott 928.717.3241 mileh.prescottschools.com

Pronghorn Ridge Middle School

Humboldt Unified School District

6411 N. Robert Rd.

Prescott Valley 928.759.4600 pr.humboldtunified.com

HIGH SCHOOLS

Aspire High School

Yavapai Accommodation School

District No. 99

2972 Centerpointe E. Dr.

Prescott 928.759.8126

www.yavapaicountyhighschool.com

Bradshaw Mountain High School

Humboldt Unified School District

6000 Long Look Dr. Prescott Valley 928.759.4100

hs.humboldtunified.com

Chino Valley High School

Chino Valley Unified School District

760 E. Center St. Chino Valley 928.636.2298 cvhs.chinovalleyschools.com

Mayer High School

Mayer Unified School District No. 43 17300 E. Mule Deer Dr. Mayer 928.642.1200 www.mayerhs.mayerschools.org

Prescott High School

Prescott Unified School District

1050 N. Ruth St. Prescott 928.445.2322

phs.prescottschools.com

Yavapai County High School

Yavapai Accommodation School

District No. 99

2972 Centerpointe E. Dr. Prescott 928.759.8126 www.yavapaicountyhighschool.com

CHARTER SCHOOLS

Acorn Montessori Schools preschool-8th grade

8085 E. Manley Dr. (preschool-K)

7555 E. Long Look Dr. (K-3) 8556 E. Loos Dr. (4-8) Prescott Valley 928.772.5778 www.acornmontessori.com

Arizona Agribusiness and Equine Center (AAEC) high school

7500 E. Skoog Blvd. Prescott Valley 928.775.3200 www.aaechs.com/campuses

BASIS Prescott K-12

1901 Prescott Lakes Pkwy. Prescott 928.277.0334 www.enrollbasis.com/prescott

Franklin Phonetic Primary School K-8

6116 E. AZ-69 Prescott Valley 928.775.6747

La Tierra Community School K-8

124 N. Virginia St. Prescott 928.445.5100 www.latierracommunityschool.org

Mingus Springs Charter School K-8

3600 N. Sunset Dr. Chino Valley 928.636.4766 www.mingusspringsschool.org

Mountain Oak School preschool-8th grade 1455 Willow Creek Rd. Prescott 928.541.7700 www.mountainoakschool.org

Northpoint Expeditionary Learning Academy middle & high school 551 1st St. Prescott 928.717.3272 www.northpointacademy.org

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

ASCEND School

K-12 special education 3021 Centerpointe E. Dr. Prescott 928.443.9290 www.azautismascend.org

Northwest Christian School Online K-12 602.978.5134 www.ncsonline.org

Orme School high school

1000 E. Orme School Rd. Mayer 928.632.7601 www.ormeschool.org

Prescott Adventist Christian School K-8

2980 Willow Creek Rd. Prescott 928.224.8022 www.prescottadventistchristian school.com

Primavera School preschool-5th grade 1446 Moyer Rd. Prescott 928.445.5382 www.primaveraschool.org

Sparklight Awards $5,000 GRANT to the Prescott Unified School District Education Foundation

Students across the Prescott Unified School District will receive additional support thanks to a $5,000 grant awarded to the Prescott Unified School District Education Foundation by Sparklight® through its Charitable Giving Fund.

The grant will fund essential school supplies, clothing and food bags for students facing financial challenges.

During its recent grant cycle, Sparklight awarded more than $125,000 in grants to 25 nonprofit organizations across the cities and towns it serves. The funding supports families, fights hunger, expands education and builds vital skills while strengthening communities along the way.

“The Prescott Unified School District Education Foundation plays an important

role in supporting students and families,” says Jay Macleod, Sparklight Senior Regional Director, Southwest. “Through our Charitable Giving Fund, Sparklight is proud to help strengthen programs that remove barriers to learning.”

Foundation Executive Director Paul Kirchgraber says the grant will help address growing needs.

“We deeply appreciate Sparklight’s support of our important programs,” Kirchgraber say. “Many families are facing increased financial hardships. This funding helps ensure that students who quietly struggle have access to the supplies and opportunities they need to participate fully in school. With Sparklight’s partnership, we can lift

barriers and build student confidence and success.”

The company’s Charitable Giving Fund focuses on initiatives that create lasting, local impact, including education and digital literacy, hunger relief and community development. Since the Fund’s inception in 2020, Sparklight has awarded more than $1.2 million in grants to more than 275 nonprofits.

Nonprofit organizations may apply for a grant during open application periods each spring and fall. Applications for the spring 2026 cycle will be accepted April 1-30, 2026. For more information about the Sparklight Charitable Giving Fund, please visit www.sparklight.com/ charitablegiving

STORY AND PHOTO SUBMITTED BY SPARKLIGHT

From left: Jay Macleod, Anne-Marie Szabo, Andrew Silva, Carol Yetman, Mike Heddens, Paul Kirchgraber, Jane Robertson, Jason Fonseca, Andrew Peters

Sacred Heart Catholic School

OUR MISSION: Guided by the Sacred Heart of Jesus, we are a community of faith, dedicated to teaching the whole child by providing a Catholic education that promotes academic excellence, quality of character, social responsibility, and spiritual growth, being the living example of God’s love to others.

We provide a broad and relevant curriculum based on our mission, philosophy, and Schoolwide Learning Expectations. We are devoted educators dedicated to curriculum development and best practices in instructional methodology to meet students needs in the 21st century.

We welcome you to visit our school, talk with our faculty and families, and take a tour or shadow for a day. Please contact us to learn more.

At Willow Creek Charter, Every Child Thrives ~

OPEN ENROLLMENT FOR 2025-2026

At Willow Creek Charter, we believe in the potential of every student and are committed to the success of all.

Each student is valued as an individual and we celebrate the unique qualities he or she brings to our family-like community.

SMALL CLASS SIZE ZERO TOLERANCE FOR BULLYING FOUR DAY SCHOOL WEEK PERSONALIZED EDUCATION AFTER SCHOOL CLUBS

Yavapai College Professor Emphasizes Performing Arts’ Importance to Life

While he only recently started as an instructor at Yavapai College, Musical Productions for Performing Arts professor Benjamin Naasz has embraced the culture.

Hired in spring 2025 as an adjunct faculty member, Naasz went full-time the following semester. Beyond the college, he is the co-owner of The Movement Studio with his wife Sasha and the founder of Footlight Productions, a 501(c) (3) nonprofit dedicated to fostering community theater, youth performance and arts education throughout the Prescott Valley region.

“My family and I used to visit Prescott every holiday while living in Tucson, and we eventually decided that since we loved the community so much, we might as well make it home,” Naasz says. “After moving here and opening The Movement Studio, I saw that Yavapai College was producing Chicago. I auditioned, was cast as Mary Sunshine, and also joined the production team as the show’s designer — that’s how my connection with Yavapai College first began.”

Naasz says his experience teaching at Yavapai College has been incredible. Brought aboard to overhaul both the

technical theater and theater programs, he also oversees the dance program.

“Being in a position where I can bring together my performing, directing, producing and technical experience has truly been a dream come true,” Naasz says. “I’ve been preparing for a job like this my whole life, and it’s been amazing to finally do it all in one place surrounded by such passionate students and supportive colleagues.”

Naasz says that theater education and training open doors to a wide range of opportunities — from acting, directing and designing to producing, stage management and arts administration.

“It’s a specialized field, but for those who master their craft, there’s tremendous demand for creative, disciplined and collaborative professionals both onstage and behind the scenes,” he says.

Not only does the field offer many job opportunities, but also something more. “Engaging in the arts nourishes people by helping them connect more deeply with empathy, imagination and the shared human experience,” Naasz says. “Theater has the unique power

to challenge perspectives, inspire compassion and bring people together in ways few other mediums can.”

Naasz holds a BFA in musical theater and an MFA in scene design, and over the past 35 years he has built an extensive career in performing arts and as an educator.

“Being in a position where I can bring together my performing, directing, producing and technical experience has truly been a dream come true.”

–BENJAMIN NAASZ

STORY AND PHOTO SUBMITTED BY YAVAPAI COLLEGE

Benjamin Naasz is a professor at Yavapai College Musical Productions for Performing Arts.

LEARNING NEVER EXHAUSTS THE MIND.

-Leonardo da Vinci

SPONSORED BY

Education is the basis for the growth and progress of society, allowing people to contribute more in their areas of expertise and create better communities. Education on every level develops problem-solving skills and provides the opportunity for empowerment through hard work.

Thank you for reading the Education Section! The section appears in every bimonthly issue including a complete directory, local articles and messages from local schools to help you decide what best suits your personal or family needs.

DIG UP Adorable Outfits YOUR DOG WON’T

SHAKE OFF

You hopefully didn’t bring a dog into your life so you could dress them up in cute outfits and parade them around — but some pet parents consider it a real pup perk.

The dog may disagree, sometimes vociferously. (We won’t even talk about cats.) But whether your aim is protecting them from the elements, celebrating a festive occasion or just to get your share of “awws” as you proceed down the sidewalk, there are garments and styles where winning canine cooperation is going to be less of a battle.

SOFT AND LOW-PRESSURE WINS

If you ask most dog owners which items get the easiest approval, the answer is simple: anything soft, warm and familiar. A lightweight fleece is usually the gateway. Dogs like the gentle pressure and the way it turns a chilly morning walk into something cozier. Over time, the fleece becomes

a kind of signal: once it’s on, the adventure starts.

COATS CAN GET A PASS

Coats in general get better reviews than most people expect, especially from short-haired breeds. A simple canvas jacket or quilted vest helps them hold on to a little warmth. These pieces work because they follow the same shape as the dog’s body and don’t mess with their balance or movement.

Dogs care deeply about freedom of motion. Anything that rubs at the shoulders or shifts as they walk will earn that stiff, offended posture every dog owner knows: the “I cannot believe you put this on me” stance.

HATS MAKE THEM MAD

Hats fall solidly into the “most dogs do not care for this” category. Even the calmest dogs prefer to keep their ears unrestricted. Accessories that block

vision — sunglasses, costume masks, elaborate hoods — usually last about three seconds before getting pawed off.

Bow ties and bandanas, however, sit in the sweet spot. They don’t change how a dog moves or sees. They also make humans smile, and dogs are experts at noticing which behaviors get a warm reaction. A dog doesn’t know it’s wearing a gingham bandana, but it does know that everyone suddenly seems delighted with it.

The biggest surprise is how much dogs appreciate practical gear. Rain jackets are a strong example. Many dogs dislike the feeling of cold water on their backs, especially in winter. A well-fitted raincoat lets them finish a walk without shivering or dripping all over the house afterward. Even dogs who hate baths will stand patiently for a raincoat, as if they sense it’s part of a fair deal between human and pet.

KEEP COMFORT IN MIND

For dogs who need a little convincing, comfort is everything. Soft seams, gentle closures and breathable fabrics matter. Weight matters too. Even a small, poorly balanced outfit can feel heavy to a dog. Owners sometimes forget that a dog moves differently than a person. They twist, roll, shake and stretch. If an outfit fights those movements, the dog will give up on it fast.

STEP CAREFULLY WITH FOOTWEAR

Boots, though common on Instagram, are hit or miss. Some dogs adapt quickly and clomp along like tiny hikers. Others lift their feet in dramatic high-stepping protest. The key is starting with short sessions indoors. If the boots keep paws safe from ice melt or hot pavement, some dogs learn to accept them. A pair of thin rubber booties — nothing rigid, nothing that squeezes — will often be tolerated.

KEEP COSTUME WEAR QUICK

At the far end of the spectrum are full costumes. A lion mane or a taco suit might make a great photo, but most dogs would prefer to wear them only long enough for the shutter to click. If the dog looks frozen in place, tail lowered, it’s telling you the moment has passed. A costume should be treated like a novelty, not a shift in lifestyle.

FORGETTABLE IS FABULOUS

In the end, the best outfit is the one the dog forgets it’s wearing. That’s the real standard. If a dog trots, sniffs and stretches without giving the clothing a second thought, you’ve found something it doesn’t just tolerate but maybe even enjoys.

FIT MATTERS MORE THAN FASHION

Even the softest garment will fail if the fit is off. Clothing that’s too tight pinches at the chest and armpits; too loose, and it twists or slides as the dog moves. Good dog clothing mirrors harness logic: snug but not restrictive, secure without squeezing. Adjustable straps and stretch panels help accommodate different body shapes, especially for barrel-chested or longbacked breeds that rarely fit “standard” sizing.

LET THEM LEARN IT SLOWLY

Dogs who end up enjoying clothes usually aren’t surprised by them. Introducing a new item in short, lowstakes moments makes a big difference. Let the dog sniff it first. Drape it briefly over their back. Pair it with treats or a walk. The goal isn’t obedience; it’s association. When clothing consistently shows up right before something good, resistance often melts away.

WATCH THE BODY LANGUAGE

Dogs are honest critics. A relaxed tail, loose gait and normal sniffing mean you’re in the clear. Freezing, excessive licking, wide eyes or repeated attempts to rub against furniture are all signs the outfit isn’t working. Taking it off promptly builds trust — and makes it more likely they’ll tolerate something else in the future.

WEATHER DECIDES, NOT HUMANS

Some dogs genuinely need clothing more than others. Seniors, puppies, small breeds and dogs with thin coats lose heat faster and often benefit from an extra layer. Thick-coated dogs, on the other hand, may overheat quickly. If your dog seems sluggish or starts panting heavily, the cutest sweater in the world isn’t worth it.

LET THE DOG ‘CHOOSE’

Many owners notice patterns over time: one coat gets tolerated, another sparks protest. Dogs may not understand style, but they understand comfort. Paying attention to which items earn calm acceptance — and which get the side-eye — is the easiest way to build a wardrobe your dog won’t dread.

In the end, the best outfit is the one the dog forgets it’s wearing. That’s the real standard.

OFFERING LOW-COST MICROCHIPPING TO THE

FOR $25.00

PETS FOR THE ELDERLY

Pets for the Elderly helps cover adoption fees at participating animal shelters for adults age 60 and over who adopt a companion dog or cat. Their mission is to improve the well-being of seniors through the comfort and companionship of pets— while giving shelter animals a second chance at life, health, and happiness.

ADOPTERS OVER 60 GET A $75.00 DISCOUNT ON THEIR ADOPTION FEE

PET GUARDIANSHIP PROGRAM

What will happen to your pets when you’re gone? Yavapai Humane Society’s Pet Guardianship Program offers peace of mind, ensuring your pets will be loved and cared for for the rest of their lives. Through the program, your pets are thoughtfully matched with carefully selected forever families, based on the wishes you set in advance.

YHS SECOND CHANCE MEDICAL PROGRAM

The Second Chance Medical Program provides essential veterinary care for injured or critically ill animals whose owners cannot afford standard veterinary rates or wait for the care they need.

Funded by community donations, this program ensures that pets receive the medical treatment they need when their owners qualify based on income.

YHS SAFETY NET PROGRAM

Our Safety Net Program helps pets and their families stay together during difficult times such as financial hardship, displacement, hospitalization, or domestic violence situations.

When families face temporary crises, pets are often at risk of abandonment. The Safety Net Program offers foster placement, veterinary assistance, and other resources to help prevent pets from losing their homes. This support helps families navigate hardships for up to 30 days while keeping their pets safe and cared for.

This program relies on the generosity of our community through both monetary donations and foster homes.

YHS COMMUNITY PET FOOD PANTRY

The YHS Community Pet Food Pantry assists more than 60 families each month, helping them keep their beloved pets at home, where they’re loved and cared for.

This program is made possible entirely through donations of cat and dog food. Next time you’re at the store, consider picking up an extra bag of pet food to help families in need within our community.

Meet our mini horse Clementine, Cody the burro and Happy the dog.

Forever Home

Animal Guardian Network’s Ranch is a for the Most Disadvantaged and Forgotten Animals

BY BLAKE HERZOG, PHOTOS COURTESY OF ANIMAL GUARDIAN NETWORK AT HEALING RIVER RANCH

Healing River Ranch in Camp Verde is home to Animal Guardian Network, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and a very exclusive menagerie of about 120 animals. Almost all of them have one thing in common. Carrie Singer, president and founder of Animal Guardian Network, says the nonprofit sanctuary serves a particular subset of disadvantaged animals: “Our focus is animals that have a 1% chance or less of surviving if we do not step in, specifically senior, special needs and hospice.”

As of late 2025 burros, horses and mules, including “minis,” made up half of the special-needs animals living in the barns and expansive habitats on the ranch; others included 15 senior dogs in the Canine Care Center, four steers and about 25 goats and sheep, as well as a couple of pigs, a half-dozen chickens, an alpaca, a turkey and three livestock guardian dogs.

Inspired

They are saved from dire circumstances such as a kill pen, abusive situation or being labeled “unhandleable.”

“Endless requests, and it’s really hard because I carry every request with me, and you feel like you’re failing when you can’t help,” Singer says. “But my priority has to be the animals we have already taken in. I can’t compromise their care.” That life-long care is provided around the clock by Singer and her small team of staff and volunteers. Gold standard medical care, diverse nutrition, socialization and enrichment are provided to maintain the highest quality of life possible.

“Our goal is not to prolong life but to give them the best life as we can for as long as they’re here,” she says.

The roster has more than doubled since Animal Guardian Network relocated to

Healing River Ranch from Cave Creek in 2019, after Carrie Singer and Vice President Robin Romano spent two years, mostly themselves, bringing utilities and structures to the plot of raw land sliced by a stretch of the Verde River. The property also includes a small chapel designated for grieving the loss of animals. It is available by appointment, and the nonprofit plans to develop it into a more accessible site.

In addition to sanctuary operations, the ranch welcomes guests through an Airbnb stay at The Lodge at Healing River Ranch and a more immersive farm-stay experience at the Farmhouse. All proceeds go to support the animals in their care.

WAYS TO DONATE

animalguardiannetwork.org

Venmo: @Animalguardiannetwork2021 Zellepay.com: 602.568.5636

PayPal: carrie@animalguardiannetwork.org

Fashion & Flawless: Because Pets Just Get It

BY LOREE WALDEN, MARKETING MANAGER, YAVAPAI HUMANE SOCIETY

Let’s just say it out loud — our pets are way more fashionable than we are. They don’t try. They don’t stress. They don’t wonder if this goes with that. They just show up, look amazing and go on with their day like it’s no big deal.

Dogs, especially, have mastered that effortless look. Some have sleek, shiny coats that always look brushed, even when you know they weren’t. Others are fluffy in all the right places and somehow pull it off without looking messy. Add a bandana, a colorful collar or a cozy sweater on a chilly day, and suddenly they’re giving off serious runway vibes.

The confidence? Unmatched. No second guessing. No bad angles. Just strut and go.

Cats, on the other paw, bring a whole different vibe. They’re the minimalists of

the fashion world. Clean lines. Neutral tones. An occasional dramatic flair. One slow blink, one graceful stretch, and suddenly they’ve stolen the spotlight. Their fur patterns alone — stripes, spots, tuxedos, solids — look like they were custom designed. Accessories not required … though they will tolerate a bowtie for approximately 12 seconds.

Then there are the pets who truly redefine what flawless means. The ones with one ear up and one ear doing its own thing. The crooked smiles, the extra fluff, the goofy grins, the soulful eyes. The seniors with gray faces and slow steps, the pets with scars that tell a story, the ones who move a little differently or don’t look like everyone else.

These pets don’t just have beauty — they have character. Their looks come

with history and heart and remind us that beauty isn’t about symmetry or perfection; it’s about individuality. Each one carries their own kind of magic, and they show us that flawless means real, not perfect.

Our pets don’t worry about trends or labels. They care about comfort, joy and whether there’s a treat involved. They remind us to relax, laugh more and stop being hard on ourselves. Fashion isn’t about being polished all the time — it’s about confidence, personality and owning who you are.

Sometimes, the most fashionable thing of all is opening your heart to a pet who’s waiting for one. Because nothing looks better than love, and nothing feels more flawless than giving a pet a place to belong.

A Divine Design

Fashion and Furnishings: Connection

Have you ever had a color, texture or pattern you loved take over the fashion world and your own wardrobe, only for it to lose its luster and end up on the clearance rack? That trend may also have infiltrated the world of interior design, where trends cycle in and out more slowly.

As it turns out, these two industries have been aesthetically shaping each other for decades, with concepts borrowed and expanded as they’re traded back and forth. Read on to learn about how styles migrate from the closet to the couch and vice versa.

STATEMENT PIECES

Humans have been creating showstopping garments and furniture since time immemorial, but the term “fashion statement” came into use about a century ago. It could be as personal as choosing your favorite color or as

BY BLAKE HERZOG

political as wearing pants during the feminist revolution.

The concept of a statement “piece” becoming the focal point of an outfit evolved from there and made the jump to interior designers and the rooms they craft.

These days, statement pieces can be chandeliers or chandelier earrings. They add a pop of saturated color to a neutral background as a throw pillow or a scarf, tie you back to your heritage with a necklace or a rug. They’re best when heightening the reality of their surroundings, not working against it.

SCULPTURE AND WHIMSY

You know those outrageously exaggerated runway dresses, hats and other insane ensembles that you simply can’t imagine seeing on the

street? Maybe they could work in your living room! Use the bell-shaped skirts, dramatic and asymmetrical draping and opulent jewel tones that took over the fall fashionscape and brought new spectacle to the design houses. Irregularly shaped mirrors and wall art, floral-shaped pendant lamps and curved and rounded furniture all inject the whimsicality often seen in a designer’s more fantastical creations into your home in a way that will entertain everyone inside long after the last crazy costume has been paraded down the catwalk.

EQUESTRIAN SENSE

Ralph Lauren and other design houses embraced the “horse girl” aesthetic in their most recent fall collections, using the clean look of riding coats and boots, classic plaid patterns and bolo ties as English country chic and rugged Western ranch inspirations merge.

These vibes have begun slinking into the interior decorating world as checkered upholstery, pillows and even wallpaper brings an approachable country club undertone to living rooms, dens and bedrooms.

Equestrian theming can be taken in a more literal direction by framing or shadowboxing accessories like bridles, bits, lassos and the like, or more subtly through adopting natural materials like wood, leather and suede and earthy colors like olive, tobacco, hunter green and dusky navy blue.

MAXIMALIST EXTRAVAGANCE

Minimalism and maximalism are the extremes between which the pendulum swings in both the fashion and décor universes.

Minimalism has had the upper hand for most of the last decade, but whenever it becomes too dominant the vibrancy, experimentation and drama of maximalism surges back in at least some corners. On the home front this means mixing materials, colors, patterns and textures with confidence while stopping short (sometimes) of excess — so it’s often trickier to nail down.

There aren’t as many rules to follow when the design ethos is “more is more,” but you need to show some restraint for things to come together. If you have three or four “loud” elements in one room, you should probably tone the rest down. Or you can stay within a fairly narrow palette while experimenting with prints and textures.

These are just a couple of examples; the real answer comes from you and your “stuff,” whether it’s been collected over the course of decades or being curated as we speak, one thrift store or boutique at a time.

Gorgeous Gardens: ORGANIC PLANTING SECRETS FAMILY-SAFE

BY KEN LAIN, THE MOUNTAIN GARDENER, WATTERS GARDEN CENTER

The high country of Arizona is unique in how its soils respond to water or a lack thereof. Suppose you’ve moved from the deserts or low country of Southern California. You really, really need to read on to learn how to be a successful gardener in these conditions.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR MOUNTAIN CLIMATE

Our local USDA garden zone is 7b with a definite influence from zone 8. This defines our area as mild, with a distinct winter of nightly freezing temperatures. The secret when buying plants is to look for those that grow in zones 7 and lower. Stay away from growing desert plants meant for zones 9 and 11. They won’t survive our winters.

The low winter temperatures provide the chilling required by deciduous fruits and perennials that thrive in colder climates. The list includes apples, peaches, cherries, grapes and berries. This climate is also conducive to blooming deciduous shrubs such as lilacs, forsythias, hardy camellias, rose of Sharon, butterfly bushes and Russian sages.

2 SEASON YEAR-ROUND GARDENING DELIGHT

We garden year-round because of our mild seasons. Broccoli, spinach, lettuce, cabbage and Brussels sprouts are available at the garden in late winter. They should be planted as early as possible through early spring, with

expected harvests before Mother’s Day. Warm-season crops like tomatoes, peppers, etc., are started in May. Few places in the country allow these twoseason harvests!

Prescott’s best winter-blooming flowers include pansies, snapdragons,

violas, dusty millers, Johnny-jump-ups and ornamental kale. Our mild cool season is a boon for gardeners who grow for color. A splash of flowers blooming through the snow is an oasis of cheer through winter. I fully expect my garden to provide brilliant color every month of the year.

BATTLING SUN, WIND AND SOIL

Never underestimate the Arizona sun, wind and dry air at these higher elevations. They are significant influences on which plants do well in our landscapes and which don’t. This region does best with plants that have thick, leathery leaves because they help retain extra moisture and reduce the risk of tearing during the area’s fierce windstorms. This is when it pays to talk to a gardening expert with experience dealing with local landscapes; it can save you a whole lot of time, energy and expense in creating your landscape.

Mountain soils change from home to home, even on the same street. In many landscapes, the soil in the front yard is different from that in the backyard. You need to learn how plants react in each new garden location.

Local soils are typically either sandy or heavy clay with very little organic material. Soil preparation for planting is of extreme importance. It demands adding organic mulch to your soil to either hold moisture in granite soils or prevent clay soils from compacting. Our soil is alkaline, so don’t add lime or wood ashes, as they would raise your pH, which is already extremely high.

MANAGING MOUNTAIN CRITTERS

National Forest lands surround us, so mammals can be an issue for local gardeners. Javelinas, deer, antelope, rabbits, squirrels and gophers can all devour portions of a carefully planned landscape. Garden here for more than a season, and you quickly find local gardeners who either gave up because of the critters or have found ways to garden with them. Start with deer-resistant plants and applying a quality animal repellent.

Sweetest Fruit Trees in Town

Imagine biting into a juicy peach, still warm from the sun, picked fresh from your tree! At Watters, we’re passionate about helping mountain gardeners grow an abundance of delicious fruit. From apples and apricots to cherries and plums, we have the perfect varieties to thrive in your backyard.

Want to maximize your harvest in a small space? Explore our fantastic selection of cocktail trees – multiple varieties grafted onto a single trunk!

Don’t wait – fruit trees are flying off the shelves! Visit Watters today and let our experts guide you towards a bountiful harvest.

Lain, owners

in your Pantry Peace

BY BLAKE HERZOG

A pantry can be a hidden corner of chaos or one of the most inviting spots in a home. When you treat storage as part of your design plan, the space shifts from something you shut behind a door to something you want to show off, or at least aren’t scared to look at.

It is a simple idea: take what you use every day and give it a home that looks as good as it functions.

Uniform jars are the place to start. Glass jars arranged in tidy rows bring instant calm. They turn grains, pasta, spices and snacks into a quiet display. The visual rhythm makes the pantry feel intentional. Clear containers also help you stay on top of what you have, which cuts down on waste and last-minute grocery runs. Add labels with a clean font and the system becomes both practical and sharp.

Wooden scoops bring warmth to all that glass. Their smoothness and simplicity add a natural touch that softens the space. A scoop resting in a jar of oats or flour feels honest and grounded. It also saves time. No more rummaging for measuring cups when a sturdy scoop is already sitting where you need it.

TURN TO LOCAL ARTISANS

Then come the ceramic canisters. When they are made by local artists, they add character that no mass-produced container can match. Small variations in glaze, color or form give each one personality. These canisters work well for loose items like coffee beans, sugar or tea.

Use baskets for odd-shaped snacks or baking supplies that do not suit jars. A cohesive look grows from mixing

these elements with intention. Keep your palette simple with clear jars, warm wood and ceramics in a few soft tones. The result feels refined without trying too hard.

Start with the items you use every day. Place containers where they are easy to see and grab easily.

The payoff is bigger than a neat pantry. When storage looks good, everyday tasks feel easier. Cooking becomes smoother. Shopping becomes smarter. Opening the pantry becomes a small moment of peace. You are not just storing ingredients; you are shaping a space that reflects how you want to live. That small shift in attention can quietly change how you move through your entire day and how you feel about the spaces you’ve created in your home.

Bradshaw Hills: DISCOVER DOWNTOWN LIVING with UNMATCHED VIEWS

Tucked away just one 1 mile from the historic downtown square in Prescott, a new community is offering a combination of luxury, location and lifestyle. Bradshaw Hills, an exclusive enclave of 33 singlestory homes, is perched atop a hill, providing breathtaking panoramic views of Thumb Butte, Granite Mountain and the city lights below.

The community is a passion project for the builder, Axberg Homes, founded by longtime Prescott residents Jerry Blakemore and Luther Kraxberger. With more than 1,000 homes built in their careers, their pride in developing their hometown is evident in every detail.

They are meticulous about quality, sourcing local trades and delivering a final product that consistently exceeds buyer expectations. As a small builder, Axberg Homes offers flexibility to accommodate

special requests, building semi-custom homes at a price that will pleasantly surprise you.

Life at Bradshaw Hills seamlessly blends urban convenience with outdoor adventure.

Residents enjoy walking from their new home to the Courthouse Plaza for events, meeting friends for lunch or exploring downtown’s shops. For nature lovers, hiking and biking trails are literally steps from their front doors, offering easy access to Acker Park and stunning vistas.

You might assume a semi-custom home with incredible views this close to downtown would be out of reach, but these homes start in the mid $500,000s. The first residents are already celebrating their decision.

“We have been looking for a home like this for years. ... New construction this close to downtown was very difficult to find,” says new homeowner Jennifer. “Once we found Bradshaw Hills, the decision was instant.”

Another resident, Ray, calls it his “true dream home,” praising the build quality and spacious, well-designed floor plans.

“The view of Prescott from this community is breathtaking. I would highly recommend this builder and development.”

Get Ready to Adjust to Springtime’s B ounty of Light and Glare

As winter loosens its grip on Greater Prescott and the early spring light stretches across its ridges and pines, homes start to feel different. Sunlight hits at new angles. Colors pop. Glare sneaks in where it never showed up before. Instead of fighting it, treat this shift like a seasonal cue to refresh your rooms.

Start with layout. Try to spend a morning watching how the light moves through each space. In many Prescott homes, east facing windows go from gentle winter glow to sharp spring brightness almost overnight. If your sofa or reading chair now catches too much glare, shift seating a few feet to the side or angle it slightly. Small changes often change the whole experience. The goal is comfort without losing the beauty of the season.

BY BLAKE HERZOG

Next, think about fabrics. Heavy winter textures can feel flat once the sun strengthens. Swap in some lighter cottons and linens. Sheer curtains can soften harsh mid-morning beams while still keeping the space bright. If you prefer blinds, try mixed material styles that filter, rather than block, the light. Prescott’s variable elevations mean no two homes get the same intensity, so experiment until the balance feels right.

SWITCH UP COLORS, DÉCOR

Color is another tool. Spring light in highland air is stronger and cooler than people expect. Whites can read stark, and warm neutrals can shift toward yellow. Bring in earthy greens, clay reds, and muted blues to anchor the room and give the sunlight something richer to play with. Accent pieces like throw pillows and table runners often make the fastest impact.

For décor, lean on natural elements. A simple vase of juniper branches or a cluster of river stones on a coffee table works well with Prescott’s blend of mountain and high-desert. Reflective surfaces can be tricky this time of year because they scatter glare. Instead of a large mirror opposite a bright window, place it along a wall where it will catch softer side light.

Finally, use the season as a reminder to clear visual clutter. Sunlight sharpens every detail, so a clean shelf or pared down mantel feels fresher and more intentional. Pull out the glass cleaner and give the windows a good wipe down. Spring light in Prescott is unique. It can be bold, dramatic and surprisingly uplifting. With a few tweaks, your rooms can shift with it and feel new again.

Pest Control Promise

E mbrace the

' Cottage Garden'

IN HIGH DESERT CONDITIONS

The romantic charm of a cottage garden — overflowing blooms, layered textures and an inviting sense of whimsy — has been trending nationwide. But in Greater Prescott’s high-desert and mountain climate, where water is precious and the sun can be intense, homeowners wonder if that lush look is possible without constant upkeep or excessive moisture demands.

With the right plants and design strategies, you can achieve a cottage-style garden that thrives in the high country.

REIMAGINING CONCEPTS

The key is rethinking what “lush” means. Traditional cottage gardens rely on dense planting, soft textures and color variety. In Prescott, that fullness comes from mixing drought-tolerant perennials and shrubs that grow in mounded, airy shapes.

Think Russian sage, lavender, catmint, yarrow and salvia — all plants that love sun, offer long-lasting blooms and create the soft, hazy layers cottage

gardens are known for. Add sturdy shrubs like rosemary and butterfly bush for structure, then weave in evergreen anchors such as juniper to maintain depth year-round.

DROUGHT-TOLERANT VIBRANCY

Color is another hallmark of cottage design, and desert-adapted plants don’t disappoint. Blanket flower, penstemon, Angelita daisy, Veronica and coreopsis bring vibrant pops of red, pink, yellow and purple. Scatter these in loose drifts instead of neat rows to create that effortless, old-world charm.

And don’t overlook native plants: Apache plume, globemallow and desert four o’clock blend beautifully with traditional cottage varieties while reducing the need for irrigation.

GARDEN ARCHITECTURE

Pathways and garden edges also bring authenticity to the cottage style. Replace thirsty turf with gravel or decomposed granite pathways lined with drought-tolerant groundcovers

like creeping thyme or blue fescue. Add curved borders instead of straight lines to create a sense of discovery. A vintageinspired gate, a birdbath or a small piece of garden art can introduce personality without requiring maintenance.

MULCH FOR PROTECTION

Mulching is essential in Prescott’s climate. A thick layer of natural mulch helps control soil temperature, retain moisture and protect plant roots — all crucial if you want that layered fullness without overwatering. Drip irrigation is another must-have, allowing you to create dense plant groupings while still using water efficiently.

MAINTAIN THE VISION

Finally, embrace the cottage garden mindset: slightly untamed, always welcoming and full of life. Mix heights, blend colors and allow plants to spill over pathways or climb trellises. When designed with climate-smart plant choices, a cottage-meets-Prescott garden becomes both enchanting and sustainable.

The Perfect Retaining Wall System

VERSA-LOK retaining wall systems are cost-effective, easy-to-install, and give you endless design options.

VERSA-LOK segmental retaining walls are made from high-strength concrete units, dry-stacked, interlocked with pins, and set on granular leveling pads. These mortarless walls do not need frost footings. And when stabilized with geogrid soil reinforcement, VERSA-LOK walls can be built 50 feet tall and even higher. From intricate landscaping features to tall, commercial walls, VERSA-LOK delivers your best value in segmental retaining wall solutions.

BUILDING ARIZONA... ONE BLOCK AT A TIME

Break the

Trend Cycle WITH TIMELESS STYLE

Some trends look great for a season. Others stand up year after year, long after the newest color of the year fades from memory. The secret is balance.

You want a home that feels current, but you also want materials and choices that hold up to real life. Design experts agree on one thing: maintenance matters as much as looks. If a style needs constant polishing or touch ups, it will not feel timeless for long.

START WITH SCALE

Large format tiles have become a quiet classic because they create clean lines and fewer grout breaks. That means less scrubbing, fewer places for dust to settle and a smoother flow from room to room. Whether you pick a stone or concrete look or soft matte finish, the effect stays modern without leaning too hard into any one era.

CONSIDER COLOR

A neutral palette does not have to feel plain. The key is choosing tones with depth. Warm creams, gentle taupes and earthy greens work as long-term anchors and make it easy to refresh a space with small seasonal updates. Their classic beauty and vitality mean they do not swing in and out of fashion. They also hide minor wear better than stark white or high contrast combinations.

STAIN-RESISTANCE ALWAYS IN STYLE

Furniture is another place where longevity shows.

Clean silhouettes with rounded edges age well because they never shout for attention. They also hold up to shifting styles. You can pair them with bold art one year and minimalist accents the next. When picking upholstery, look for

performance fabrics that resist stains and fading. A sofa that still looks new after five years is always in style.

Lighting can carry a surprising amount of design weight, so choose pieces that mix simple forms with warm finishes. Brushed metal, aged brass and dark bronze all stay relevant because they work with almost any palette. If you want something trend-forward, keep it to items that are easy to swap, like wall art or table lamps.

KEEP MAINTENANCE IN MIND

Matte countertops hide smudges. Durable flooring keeps its finish. Washable rugs mean fewer headaches.

Timeless design not only is about avoiding trends. It is about building a home that stays comfortable and beautiful without constant upkeep.

Full-Blown Renovation Kitchen Style Updates THAT DON’T REQUIRE A

If your kitchen is feeling a little tired but a full renovation isn’t in the plans or budget, this is your year. This season’s design direction celebrates simple, highimpact updates that breathe new life into the heart of the home without dust clouds, demo days or sky-high costs. Think smarter storage, refreshed finishes and niche design moments that make your space feel custom.

Start with the quickest transformation of all: hardware. Cabinet pulls and knobs are known as the “jewelry” of the kitchen and swapping them out can shift the entire mood. For 2026, designers are leaning into warm metals — brushed brass, soft matte black and champagne bronze — paired with natural materials like walnut or leather. These tones bring depth to even the simplest cabinetry and instantly modernize a room.

Lighting is another small-scale change with big results. Instead of relying solely on overhead fixtures, homeowners are layering with pendants, sconces

and under-cabinet lighting to create ambiance and practical task zones. Linear fixtures over islands, domeshaped pendants in natural finishes and LED strip lighting inside cabinets reflect the trend toward kitchens that feel more like curated living spaces than utilitarian work zones.

DON’T TEAR OUT, LEVEL UP

Storage upgrades are also making a major comeback — not by expanding footprints, but by rethinking how space is used. Pull-out shelves, narrow “spice towers,” cutting-board organizers and built-in charging drawers are niche features making rounds in 2026 kitchens. These smart additions make daily routines more efficient and keep counters clean, which instantly elevates the look of any kitchen. Even something as simple as adding a few glass-front cabinet doors or open shelves can create visual

rhythm and offer a place to display your favorite dishes, cookbooks or artisan ceramics.

For homeowners craving a style refresh without touching the cabinets, consider surface-level updates. A new backsplash in a trending style — handmade tiles, elongated subway designs or warm stone textures — can bring character in a weekend. Updating faucet styles, swapping out bar stools, or layering in a new rug can also shift the aesthetic dramatically.

And if paint is on the table, soft earthy tones like clay, mushroom and muted sage continue to be favorites for bringing warmth and calm to the space.

What makes 2026’s kitchen refresh trend so appealing is its accessibility: you can reinvent your space piece by piece.

Transition INTO EARLY SPRING with Style Window Boxes

In Prescott, winter usually hangs on a little longer than you expect. The mornings stay crisp, the evenings cool, and the sun warms the afternoons just enough to tempt out the first signs of spring. It is the perfect moment to refresh your window boxes, a small but stylish nod that a new season is on the way.

START WITH THE BASICS

Winter greenery has done its job, giving structure through the coldest months. Now it is time for color. Pansies and violets are the stars of this stretch between seasons. They can handle Prescott’s chilly nights and reward you with bright, steady blooms once the sun hits.

Dusty miller works as a soft counterpoint. Its silvery leaves act like a neutral anchor, giving the arrangement

depth without stealing attention. Mixed with the blues, yellows and purples of pansies and violets, it creates a palette that feels clean and fresh. It also stands up to temperature swings, which makes it a smart fit for this time of year.

CONTAINER CONFIDENCE

Container style matters. Greater Prescott’s mix of historic homes, modern builds and rustic cabins means you can choose a look that matches your architecture.

Wooden window boxes add warmth. Metal boxes bring a crisp, simple line. Painted boxes add personality without overwhelming the plants. Pick one direction and stay consistent across the front of your home. A unified look strengthens curb appeal more than any single bloom.

COLOR COORDINATION

If your home has bold trim choose flowers in shades that complement rather than compete. If your exterior is neutral, you have room to play. Try soft purples with creamy whites for a calm look or mix sunny yellows with deep blues for a stronger hit of contrast. Keep one color repeating across all boxes so the eye reads the whole display as a single statement.

TIMING IS KEY

Most gardeners start swapping winter greenery in late February or early March. Nights may still dip cooler, but these transitional plants do not mind. By April, they settle in and carry your window boxes straight into true spring. By the time spring fully arrives, your window boxes will already be doing the work of welcoming it in.

FOR THE LATEST IN LIFESTYLE, WELLNESS & DESIGN TRENDS, ENJOY THE CURRENT ISSUE WITH AN ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION

USE COLOR-BLOCKED CURTAINS AS STYLISH ROOM DIVIDERS

Open-concept living has its perks — light flows freely, the space feels expansive, and the layout encourages connection. But too much openness can feel chaotic without visual structure. That’s where color-blocked curtains come in. More than just window dressing, bold drapery can function as stylish dividers, offering privacy, contrast and cohesion all at once.

Color blocking — pairing solid, contrasting shades on a surface to create visual interest — has made its mark in fashion and interiors alike. When applied to curtains, it becomes a clever tool to organize space without sacrificing light or airiness. Use floor-to-ceiling panels to carve out zones in a loft, studio or large family room. A curtain wall in crisp white and navy, for example, can distinguish a dining area from a lounge space while keeping the overall palette refined.

Texture matters as much as color. Rich velvets or structured linens in saturated tones like forest green with ochre or charcoal against blush introduce depth and drama. Lighter cottons in clean blocks of pastel can soften a home office or reading nook tucked within a larger room.

Function meets form when hardware is thoughtfully chosen. A curved ceiling track allows curtains to glide smoothly around corners, ideal for wrapping a sleeping area in privacy. For a more sculptural approach, suspend panels from minimalist rods or cable systems and let them puddle slightly at the floor for that relaxed-luxury feel.

The magic of this technique lies in its flexibility. Want to host a dinner party? Pull back the curtains and open the space. Need a moment of calm? Draw them closed and let the colors cocoon you. In either position their vivid color palette and texture will add interest to the overall room.

Color-blocked drapery isn’t just décor — it’s architecture in fabric. It enhances what curtains can do in a modern home: soften acoustics, create intimacy and add visual rhythm. It’s a luxury solution for those who want versatility without walls.

Whether you’re transforming a downtown loft or a sun-filled mountain retreat, sectioning off your home with color-blocked curtains offers a way to shape space with sophistication and style — no renovation required.

TRICIA LEWIS NAMED PRESCOTT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

TMANAGER

ricia Lewis was named the City of Prescott’s Economic Development Manager in November. She brings more than 25 years of experience in economic development, tourism, marketing and community relations, along with strong ties to the Prescott area.

In her role, Lewis is leading initiatives to attract and retain businesses, support workforce and industry development, and strengthen regional partnerships that contribute to Prescott’s long-term economic vitality. She is serving with Director of Economic Initiatives John Heiney, promoted last fall from the Director of Community Outreach position.

Lewis previously served as Tourism and Economic Development Director for the City of Cottonwood, where she strengthened Visit Cottonwood’s brand and helped grow tourism, business activity and community engagement across the Verde Valley. She also spent 10 years with the Arizona Department of Transportation as a senior community relations officer, building partnerships between state agencies, local governments and community stakeholders.

Lewis lives in Prescott Valley and has long-standing family connections in Prescott. She founded Lewis Marketing and Public Relations in 2005 and worked closely with the World’s Oldest Rodeo® from 2009 to 2021 as its exclusive marketing and advertising agency. She continues to be actively involved in regional civic and business initiatives.

UNSTOPPABLE YAVAPAI COLLEGE LIBRARY LEADER WINS EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR

Earning Yavapai College’s top employee honor was a stunning moment for Ustadza White, who has been described as “unstoppable” in her quest to provide students, faculty and staff the technology they need to advance their skills, boost their knowledge and ensure their success.

“I don’t remember much about getting onstage and offstage, because I was in such shock,” she said, recalling hearing her name announced during the award portion of Convocation in August. “It was unreal. It didn’t even occur to me that I would ever get that honor, but that moment made me feel really seen.”

Her list of achievements kept growing through the end of the year with her promotion to Director of Library and Tutoring Services and the development and rollout of a pilot, Yavapai College-specific AI tutor named Sophie.

White is passionate about digging into projects that ultimately help people. “AI can be a fantastic teaching and learning tool and I designed Sophie to be just that. She doesn’t give students the answers. She walks them step by step through a problem, helping them arrive at the answer on their own,” White said.

White’s academic and career journey started at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida where she studied human factors psychology and worked in the university library. It was in that “knowledge warehouse,” as she called it, that White fell in love with helping everyone who walked through the doors find what they were looking for. After earning her degree in 2003, White landed a job at the Yavapai College Library as a circulation supervisor and successfully pursued a master’s degree in library and information technology at the University of Arizona.

Within a few years, she returned to Florida as a reference librarian at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale. When a library manager position opened at Yavapai College in 2011, White jumped at the chance to return to the high desert, the mountains and a more connected community. “I didn’t realize I how much I liked that small-town feel,” she said.

Her technological knowhow and leadership in driving innovation at the library and collegewide led to her being tapped for the Library and Tutoring Services director’s position. “In this position, because the scope is quite large and library and tutoring services are evolving, I’m able to do so many things. I can honestly say I’ve never been bored at YC,” White said.

She is stationed in the Yavapai College Center for Learning and Innovation, which she helped to develop before it opened in January. The tech-filled, future-leaning space is replacing the former library in Building 19 on the Prescott campus.

COUNTY ORDINANCE PROHIBITS UNLAWFUL FEEDING OF WILDLIFE

The Yavapai County Board of Supervisors has approved an ordinance designed to prohibit the unlawful feeding of wildlife within the unincorporated areas of Yavapai County. This decision aligns with state safety standards and aims to mitigate the rising number of dangerous interactions between residents and wild animals.

Arizona previously adopted a state statute that prohibits wildlife feeding in counties with populations exceeding 280,000, but Yavapai County required local action to enact similar protections, as it stands at a little over 250,000 residents. The adoption of this ordinance in November ensured these safety regulations apply to unincorporated Yavapai County communities.

The law bans “intentionally, knowingly or recklessly feeding, attracting or otherwise enticing wildlife into an area.” Exceptions are made for feeding birds and tree squirrels “placed

in a manner or location that makes it unavailable to other wildlife,” as well as normal livestock practices and hunting or holding wildlife under the state’s Game and Fish laws. The penalty is a civil fine of up to $300. For the full text of Ordinance 2025-14 visit www.yavapaiaz.gov

Residents are encouraged to secure trash, remove pet food from outdoor areas and refrain from intentionally putting out food that attracts wildlife such as javelina, coyotes, bears and mountain lions.

Yavapai County Board of Supervisors Chair Mary Mallory said, “We all enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife of Yavapai County, but we must appreciate it responsibly. This ordinance is necessary to prevent dangerous familiarization. By stopping the unlawful feeding of wildlife, we are protecting our neighborhoods and ensuring that our local wildlife remains wild and safe.”

The decision followed increased wildlife sightings and confrontations in residential

and urban zones throughout the county. The intentional feeding of wild animals has been identified as a primary driver of these conflicts. The ordinance is intended to protect both human residents and the wildlife population. Feeding attracts wildlife into neighborhoods, increasing the risk of physical attacks on humans and pets, according to county officials.

Familiarized animals are more likely to cause damage to homes, landscaping and vehicles. When wild animals rely on human food sources, they lose their natural fear of humans. This often leads to the animal being deemed a “nuisance” or threat, which frequently results in the animal having to be euthanized.

The ordinance is expected to be enforced primarily by the Arizona Game & Fish Department, which has the specialized training and resources to manage wildlife issues. The Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office has reviewed the ordinance and expressed no concerns regarding its form or implementation.

Red-winged blackbirds at Watson Lake PHOTO BY CHRIS BELLOS

Karen Shaw

Charlene Schosser

Virginia Wertz

Decades

Through the

Band at Whiskey River Tavern

Daryl Weisser

Chris Bellos

June 29 - july 5

Jim Dewey own

A week of grit, glory, and cowboy spirit

Don’t miss your chance to be part of histor y Tickets for the 2026 World’s Oldest Rodeo® will go on sale March 2026.

Stay tuned for our in-person pre-sale ticket event in Februar y 2026. Download our rodeo app at “Rodeo1888” for

Secure your tickets early as we honor 139 years of rodeo traditions.

Parade Entries ARE NOW OPEN WORLD’S OLDEST RODEO®

SUBMITTED BY PRESCOTT FRONTIER DAYS®

Prescott Frontier Days, Inc. is pleased to announce that parade entry registration is now open. The World’s Oldest Rodeo Parade, sponsored by Barrett Propane, is scheduled for Saturday, July 4, 2026. Recognized as Arizona’s second-largest parade, this iconic event will once again serve as the highlight and centerpiece of Prescott’s summer festivities in downtown Prescott, Arizona.

The 2026 parade will coincide with America’s Semiquincentennial, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States and will reflect the national theme, Celebrating 250 Years of Freedom. As the nation marks this historic milestone, the Prescott rodeo and its surrounding festivities — including the parade — will proudly showcase the red, white and blue in honor of America’s birthday. A new feature for our viewers this year is a chance to vote for your favorite entry using a simple QR code.

The number of entries will be limited to make sure the parade does not interfere with other planned activities. Early pricing will continue until March 31, the deadline to enter is May 15.

REGISTRATION

Scan the QR code or use this link and complete the online form. https://app.clearevent.com/ eventPortal#event/4cade92e-eed5-40e9-80316c0bfd20f734

Information on entry type and pricing is available on the registration landing page. Interested participants are encouraged to register early.

We can’t wait to receive your entry!

Find additional parade information at www.worldsoldestrodeo.com/rodeo-parade The parade director, Suzy Davidson, may be reached at suzy@worldsoldestrodeo.com

Photo by Blushing Cactus Photography

Be Creative Art Classes Imagination INTO PRESCOTT VALLEY’S

BY

BLAKE HERZOG, PHOTOS COURTESY OF JUDY BRINKHURST

Want to paint your first masterpiece, despite having no discernable talent? Have you not only discovered but developed that talent and want to take it to the next level? Do you have a kid who wants to put a little more magic into his or her life?

In any of these cases, you should check out the offerings at Be Creative Art Classes, on Florentine Road in Prescott Valley.

Owner David Brinkhurst has been an artist for more than half a century, earning his art degree in 1971 after studying in Oxford, England.

“I’ve been doing that for a long time just on my own benefit, I didn’t really think about teaching until I started displaying my own art,” he says.

After he started hanging his swirling, abstract paintings at Prescott Fine Art, a gallery inside Pine Ridge Marketplace, owner Tamara Halcom asked if he could teach the technique to others at the gallery, he replied, “‘I certainly would like that.’ And it took off.”

He started teaching classes on the “pour painting” technique at the beginning of 2025. Also known as fluid art, it involves

pouring thinned-down acrylic paints onto a canvas, either separately or together, and then tilting or spinning the wet canvas to create organic, abstract patterns highlighting interactions between colors and textures.

Sometimes other tools are used, like sponges, straws, chains or even blowing on the paint or using a hair dryer.

His classes and “paint pouring parties” for groups proved popular enough that the sessions kept filling up, and he began to want to expand beyond what he was able to do at the gallery, because of availability.

Artwork from a silhouette class.

As art classes were limited in Prescott Valley, David started to consider setting up shop there.

David opened Be Creative Art Classes in November and has brought his paint-pouring parties there, which he describes as, “People come, take a two-hour class and take home their own masterpiece with absolutely no skill involved.”

Even though refreshments, and sometimes even wine and charcuterie boards are served, he says, “This isn’t a paint-and-sip where the expectation is you’re going to copy one painting.

With my fun classes, anything can happen, and it usually turns out pretty cool.

There are no expectations, you’re not under any pressure.”

Students pick out the colors they want to use, David teaches them the basics of the technique, and they go on to create their own unique, vivid image.

He has brought in more instructors to help budding artists explore other forms of painting or media at the studio. Terri Schuler is making a splash with watercolors while Catrina Haberman shows how she recycles trash into jewelry, ornaments, yard art and more. Oil painter Josh Cheney is teaching classes for more advanced students, and Mike Brown teaches stained glass.

David sees more coming in the future — and is considering Zentangle, pencil

drawing, macramé, stained glass and eventually pottery and metalworking.

“Anything to do with the arts, we’ll be doing,” he says.

And that does include the art of magic, another longtime passion of David’s. He is teaching magic to kids and teens.

Most fees at Be Creative Art Classes run from $50 to $70 and include all supplies, in most cases.

For more information visit www.becreativeartclasses.com or call 928.463.0438. The studio is at 8197 E. Florentine Rd., Ste. A in Prescott Valley.

We hope to see you soon!

Art by David Brinkhurst (above) and student artwork (right)

SOMEONE WHO MATTERS

BY TOD CHRISTENSEN

I wasn’t born into money and my school certainly didn’t give me a head start, And the guidance counselor told me there was nothing wrong being a cashier at the quick mart I haven’t given up though even though I hardly laugh and rarely smile

If I were being completely honest I haven’t felt good about myself in quite a while

I still have hopes and dreams, and I don’t think I really ask for much I just would like to make a little difference and maybe just a few lives I could touch I don’t need to be the moon but couldn’t I be just one little beam I could light up the night just a little so it’s not quite as dark as it would seem

Or I could be a dying star with a brilliant tail shooting across the sky

Whose last act is allowing others to make a wish as I streak on by

How about a bluebird so I could bring my song to every morning?

Even a simple deer who helps her family using her tail for a warning

You see I really don’t want to be famous or rich,

But is it really asking too much if my life I’m willing to switch

And go from someone who is just trying to get along and get by

To anything special that can help others or is at least willing to try?

But maybe I could try a little harder to help others after all

Maybe I don’t have to be magic to help someone get up from a fall

Or I could just be a kind word to someone in need

Somone who just needs to be encouraged a little to succeed

So instead of wishing for magic, although that’s not really wrong,

Maybe what I’ve been wishing for has been inside me all along I’ve seen sadness and I’ve seen lives that can shatter

And maybe I was already made to be someone who matters

February 21st 2pm–4pm Victorian Afternoon Tea

at

March 7th 2pm–3pm Lecture Series: Power of Place - Spanish Exploration

March 25th 10am–1pm Hands On History: Oral History

May 2nd | 2pm

Sharlot M. Hall Statue Dedication Artist: Heather Johnson Beary

March 10th 5pm-6:30pm

Twilight Tales: “Kate T. Cory: From Manhattan to the Mesas”

April 4th 10am-3pm at Fort Whipple Living History Adventure

April 11th | 10am-3pm at Sharlot Hall Museum Living History Adventure

May 16th 4pm-7pm Sharlot’s Cellar

Photo by Blushing Cactus Photography

Crack of Dawn on a Cow Ranch by George Phippen CA

Courtesy of the Phippen Studio Gallery LLC

Dana Marshall and her husband Joe

Opens Remote Vistas to Outdoor Adventure Overlanding

BY BLAKE HERZOG, PHOTOS COURTESY OF DANA MARSHALL

Overlanding sits at the crossroads of travel, camping and self-reliance — a slower, more intentional way to experience the outdoors that’s gaining quiet momentum. Part road trip, part backcountry escape, it’s about using your vehicle not just to get somewhere, but to live from it, turning remote landscapes into temporary homes and the journey itself into the adventure.

Overlanding may be the ultimate outdoor adventure that you’ve never heard of.

It has much in common with other forms of vehicle-assisted enjoyment of the natural environment. It combines features of four-wheeling and “vanlife.”

“It’s classified as self-supported vehicle adventure,” explains Dana Marshall, co-owner of MULE Expedition Outfitters in Prescott Valley. “So if you have everything you need on board your vehicle to go out for an extended period of time and enjoy the outdoors and use your vehicle as a base camp, that’s overlanding.”

Marshall and her husband Joe are from the Northwest and in the business of enabling others to discover overlanding just as they did 15 years ago. They expanded into the Southwest in April 2025 by opening their third store in

Prescott Valley, joining stores near Seattle and Portland.

“It’s an area we’ve always loved, it’s beautiful here, and it’s got so much area for overlanding and the stuff that we and our customers like to do,” she says.

Overlanding enthusiasts typically drive past developed campgrounds and deeper into the wilderness. They love to hike, fish, take photos when they reach their destination, but some consider the journey as the real reward. Many work remotely, a recent option that has propelled the growth in its popularity.

They take different approaches to overlanding — some make no alterations to their vehicle, pack a ground tent and supplies, and that’s it. Others turn to businesses like the Marshalls’ to get enough gear to make the ride a little smoother.

Many overlanders work remotely, a recent option that has propelled the growth in its popularity.

“It’s really not difficult because you can always go camping with a tarp and a can of beans. There’s nothing you really need need, other than shelter and water, and some food. But it makes it much more comfortable.”

It’s possible to do some overlanding in a car, but it’s mostly approached with four-wheel drive trucks, SUVs and vans. Popular choices include the Toyota Tacoma or 4-Runner, Jeeps, fullsize trucks from Ford, Chevrolet and Dodge, she says.

These add-ons can include lifting a truck or van for better clearance, a suspension system, a tent mounted on top of a truck bed or SUV. If you want to go allout you can take the roof off an SUV and replace it with a pop-up tent that lets you stand upright in your vehicle.

MULE sells battery-operated and solar electrical systems, shower systems, cans for storing water and fuel, recovery straps and winches in case travelers get stuck in a ditch, first-aid kits, light bars, front and rear bumpers, mounting racks, mattress upgrades and anything else an overlander might consider useful.

“One of the things we like to do is have a showroom with the product in stock,

and we like to think of ourselves as a “Car-EI,” instead of an REI,” Marshall says.

She and her husband fell in love with overlanding after two years of nights and weekends building a Volkswagen Vanagon with a Westfalia pop-up

camper into a four-wheel drive overlandready vehicle, then taking two years off from work to explore Southern and Baja California.

“It really reset how we think about life and what’s really important, and we thought wow, other people need to experience this.” Marshall say. “Not just going out for a day but really have a change in your perspective, and being self-sufficient for that period of time.”

Some in the overlanding community define it in part by journeys that cross international boundaries, but Marshall says there are plenty of worthy destinations in Northern Arizona for this kind of trip.

“There’s so much Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land where there’s just free-range camping that’s not controlled like a campground or whatever,” she says. “Or like anywhere out to Sedona, anywhere in the national parks. We just drove down Bloody Basin Road last weekend. You don’t have to go far.”

The couple is planning to relocate to Greater Prescott, so they’re on the lookout for more Arizona adventures.

Come check out MULE Expedition Outfitters at Florentine Rd., No. 6, in Prescott Valley.

A roof conversion adds a pop-up tent to an Ineos Grenadier, a high-end off-road SUV.

S pring into Fun with Prescott Valley Parks and Recreation

BY ASHLIE BIGELOW, MARKETING SPECIALIST, PRESCOTT VALLEY PARKS AND RECREATION

PHOTOS COURTESY OF PRESCOTT VALLEY PARKS & RECREATION

As the days grow longer and warmer, Prescott Valley Parks and Recreation is excited to offer a lineup of programs and events designed to bring the community together.

YOUTH ART MONTH

Youth Art Month may be in March, but submissions are due by end of day Feb. 20. This nationally recognized initiative celebrates young visual artists and honors the teachers who support them.

For more than two decades, the Town of Prescott Valley has hosted the Youth

Art Month Student Showcase, where area teachers from kindergarten art class to high school advanced art, submit their students’ best work for the opportunity to win art supplies for their classroom.

Celebrate the young artists in your community and enjoy the Youth Art Month Student Showcase at Prescott Valley Parks and Recreation Building. Submissions accepted through Feb. 20.

Art is on display March 2-April 10 and the reception will be held March 27, 5:30-7 p.m. in the Parks and Recreation Atrium.

WINTER ART DISPLAY

Check out the Winter Art Display before Feb. 23 at the Prescott Valley Public Library. This all-media showcase highlights different aspects of winter as it’s never been seen before. Whether it’s a watercolor landscape of beautiful snowy mountains, or a photograph of some of the furry friends we see in the colder months, the artwork highlights the beautiful season in numerous different ways.

EGG HUNT EXPEDITION

Hop on over to the Civic Center to meet the Easter Bunny and hunt for some eggs at this year’s Egg Hunt Expedition Friday, April 3 from 3:45 to 6:30 p.m. With 15-minute sessions, these egg hunts are meant to be a safe way for children 15 and younger to enjoy spring this year.

Enjoy spring-themed crafts, challenges, games and so much more.

SPRING FAIR

Get in the spring spirit with the Spring Fair. Join us at the Prescott Valley Civic Center on Saturday, April 11, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for a day of live performances, carnival rides, springthemed crafts, food trucks, bounce houses and so much more. We can’t wait to spring into the new season with you at this free event.

Visit prescottvalley-az.gov/parks for more information about Parks and Recreation or to register for one of our upcoming programs! We hope you will join us for some spring fun.

450 White Spar Rd.

Prescott, AZ 86303

Sprouts Farmers Market

174 E. Sheldon St.

Prescott, AZ 86301

7720 E. AZ-69

Prescott Valley, AZ 86314

Sprouts Farmers Market 5645 E. AZ-69

Prescott Valley, AZ 86314

1031 N. AZ-89 Chino Valley, AZ 86323 Southwest Homes 8841 Florentine Rd., Ste. C

Prescott Valley, AZ 86314 Realty Executives Arizona TerritoryNew Home Marketplace 113 W. Goodwin St. Prescott, AZ 86303

YOUR SKIN Needs a Screen

All Winter Long

Arizona is Arizona and even its nondesert regions tend to be mostly sunny yearround. This makes it even more imperative for us to wear sunscreen in the winter, a self-care step too many people around the country and world overlook.

Increased cloud cover and more time spent indoors fools many people into letting their guard down against the sun’s UV rays this time of year, but perhaps not surprisingly, they’re too strong to be defeated by clusters of water droplets or ice crystals suspended in the air.

The sun’s rays are weakened somewhat by winter clouds but are still a formidable force that can penetrate our skin, leading to premature aging and heightened risk of skin cancer.

Sunglasses are another line of defense that is more likely to be tossed aside in winter since the sunlight feels weaker and

BY BLAKE HERZOG

doesn’t make us as squinty. But they’re important to protect not just our vision but the more delicate skin on our eyelids and surrounding the eyes, which are some of the first spots to show signs of aging. Five to 10% of all skin cancers are found on the upper or lower eyelid.

Here are tips to remember about winter sunscreen use and transitioning into spring:

APPLY, APPLY AGAIN

The guideline of applying sunscreen before you go out, then reapplying every two hours or after you perspire holds up in the winter as well as it does in summer. Cold winds and snow can chip away at the effectiveness of its protection just as much as the heat and humidity of summer.

WINTER SPORTS WARNING

The reflective power of snow and increased UV radiation at those elevations

mean skiing, snowboarding and related pastimes increase your chances of getting sunburned. Use a good sport sunscreen of at least 30 SPF or higher if your skin burns easily.

ELEVATE YOUR PROTECTION

UV rays gain strength with altitude, so living in the more elevated regions of the state adds a risk factor for us that the lower deserts with their brutal summer conditions don’t have. This is something to remember throughout the year.

STAY COVERED UP

It’s easier to stay covered up in the winter, but it’s also easy to feel like shedding some of your layers in celebration when temperatures become unseasonably warm. Don’t try to establish your “polar bear” cred by wearing short sleeves and shorts when it’s still chilly out — you’re protecting yourself from the sun as well as the cold. At least wear sunscreen if you do!

YEARLY SKIN CHECKS

Yearly skin checks are another essential layer of protection, especially in a high-sun state like Arizona. A full-body exam by a dermatologist can catch skin cancers early, when they’re most treatable, and identify precancerous spots before they become a bigger concern. Many people assume changes will be obvious or painful, but skin cancer often develops quietly, in places you don’t regularly see, like the scalp, back or behind the ears.

Annual checks also help you get to know your own skin better. A dermatologist can track moles and spots over time, flag subtle changes you might miss and offer guidance tailored to your skin type, lifestyle and sun exposure. Think of it as preventive maintenance — a once-a-year appointment that can offer peace of mind and, in some cases, be lifesaving.

PEAK HOURS ARE THE SAME

Sunlight is most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., just like the rest of the year, so these are the times to avoid being outside for more than a few minutes, if you can. It can still be good to spend a few minutes daily exposing your unprotected skin to sunlight for vitamin D synthesis and other benefits, but this may not be the best time to do that.

SPRAYING IT ON ISN’T ENOUGH

If you prefer spraying rather than slathering your sunscreen that’s OK, as long as you remember to apply enough of it and rub it into your skin afterward to guarantee even coverage and full protection. You should spray and rub it in everywhere besides your face until your exposed skin is glistening; for your face, spray enough into your palm to create a little puddle and rub it on.

SPRING MEANS HIGHER UV

As winter heats up into spring, understand that you’ll need to be even more vigilant about limiting sun exposure. Keep wearing your sunscreen, but if you’re wearing one that’s below SPF 30 you’ll want to switch to something more protective. Don’t be too quick to ditch your long sleeves and pants and consider taking other measures like seeking shade when you do go outside, especially during peak hours. This is also a good time to check expiration dates on sunscreen left over from last year, as expired products may not offer full protection. Reapplying becomes even more important as days grow longer and more time is spent outdoors.

DON’T FORGET

One commonly forgotten spot is your hands, which receive consistent sun exposure every time you’re behind the wheel. UVA rays can penetrate car windows, meaning your hands are exposed during daily commutes, school drop-offs and long drives — even in winter. Over time, this can lead to premature aging, sun spots and an increased risk of skin cancer. Keeping a small bottle of sunscreen in your car and applying it to the backs of your hands before driving is an easy habit that helps protect one of the hardestworking and most visible parts of your skin.

In a state where sunshine is part of daily life, sun protection can’t be a seasonal habit. Winter may feel gentler, but your skin doesn’t get a break — and the small choices you make now add up over time. By keeping sunscreen, sunglasses and smart coverage in your year-round routine, you’re not just preventing a burn today, but investing in healthier skin for years to come.

Do you or a loved one suffer from snoring, sleep apnea, or can’t tolerate a CPAP?

appliance may be the solution!

Sleep Better Southwest has been located in Prescott Valley for over 12 years and Dr. Jonathan Held is the only Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine in Northern Arizona

Sleep Better Southwest is

•Oral Appliances are a ctive, and easy to t comfortable, effective, travel with alternative to CPAP.

•We assist in helping set up home sleep testing.

• We are the only dental sleep practice that is in-network with most medical insurance plans.

Traditional Medicare patients typically have no out of pocket costs for testing or treatment.

Great PostureSupports Great Health

First of all, “perfect” posture is all about keeping your body over your center of gravity and the three natural curves of your back are in alignment, also known as neutral spine. It’s generally defined as: Standing straight and tall with your head level, shoulders back, stomach pulled in, knees slightly bent and your feet about shoulder’s width apart.

When seated, especially while working in front of a computer, your feet should be flat on the floor or on a footrest, your knees bent at a 90-degree angle, elbows also at a 90- to 120-degree angle, shoulders relaxed, back fully supported and your head level. Take walking breaks away from your desk every 30 minutes or so if possible — keeping that kind of posture is hard work!

Now that we have that out of the way, let’s get into a few of the positives you reap from maintaining good posture.

LESS NECK, BACK AND KNEE PAIN

This is the best-known benefit and what drives many people to work on correcting it. Proper alignment of your

neck and spine distributes more weight to your bones and away from joints, ligaments and tendons not meant for that job, which together help protect these crucial areas of your body from injury and inflammation.

YOUR DIGESTION WILL IMPROVE

Slouching, or letting your shoulders fall forward, throws your entire body out of alignment and increases the likelihood of acid reflux, bloating and other digestive issues. It can also lead to constipation or problems with bladder control including leakage and frequent need to urinate.

YOU’LL BREATHE EASIER

When you slouch your lungs are compressed inside your rib cage, and they won’t be able to expand to their full capacity. Chest-opening exercises can help you give them the room they need to get you a good oxygen supply.

YOUR CIRCULATION WILL IMPROVE

Twisting your body into unnatural positions (no matter how natural they feel) also throws your blood vessels, veins and arteries out of whack. This

forces your heart to work harder to pump out an adequate supply and contributes to high blood pressure.

NERVE PAIN WILL BE ALLEVIATED

Incorrectly positioned bones and muscles can put additional strain on nerves, as well. Pinched nerves in the neck causes pain and headaches and in the chest can send pain radiating down your arms. Many of these can be avoided.

FORTIFIES YOUR CORE

Core strength and posture are a two-way street: maintaining good posture is key to strengthening your back muscles, abs, obliques, glutes, diaphragm and pelvic floor. And core-focused workouts help you maintain good posture.

YOU’LL BE MORE ENERGETIC

Because poor posture adds weight to your muscles that they shouldn’t always be carrying around, it can lead to fatigue that’s felt throughout your body. Getting your alignment back will allow you to be more active and likely will elevate your mood along with it.

Simple Habits Mental Health TO BOOST

1 Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and protein.

2 Dance while you do your housework.

3 Think about all the good things that could happen during that meeting you’re dreading.

4 Clean one space, no matter how small.

5 Start taking one step toward changing something in your life, even if you’re not sure what the second step will be.

6 Practice gratitude in your mind or on paper at least once or twice a day.

7 When you’re feeling stuck, do one activity that will get your heart rate up.

8 Watch funny videos on YouTube or your favorite streaming service.

9. Walk or hike in nature for 30 minutes

10. Make a “done” list instead of a “to-do” list to remind yourself of your progress.

11. Prioritize your relationships with everyone, including cashiers and baristas.

12. Start a new home or creative project or pick up one you haven’t finished yet.

13. Take time to learn how much sleep you need to function the next day, then get it!

14. Meditate, even if you’ve tried it in the past and didn’t like it.

15. Eat a full breakfast in the morning.

16. Put things you’re looking forward to on your calendar, including TV shows and book releases.

17. Volunteer.

18. Surround yourself with positive people.

19. Move your body as much as you can.

20. Start a backyard garden.

21. Appreciate the simple things in life.

to Energize Protect Sleep Tonight

FOR TOMORROW

After you’ve had your minimum seven to eight hours of high-quality sleep you’re much more likely to wake up alert and refreshed. You’ll be ready to kick off a morning routine that ideally includes meditation, a healthy breakfast and some form of physical movement, if not a full workout.

You’ll also likely find yourself able to focus better and be productive in whatever you do and in a better mood while doing it. This can ebb and flow over time but in general you’ll be feeling more calm and concentrated than you would after just five or six hours of sleep. You may need to cut back on your overwork to get your needed sleep, but your brain will be able to work more efficiently the next day, anyway.

Here are some things to keep in mind as you prepare yourself for bed in the evenings:

PLAN TOMORROW TONIGHT

Get everything ready ahead of time that you possibly can to make your morning and everything else that happens the next day much more relaxed. Choose your outfit, prepare as much of your breakfast as you can, leave your bag by the door and jot down your three top priorities for the day.

BLOCK OUT ENOUGH TIME

“Eight hours of sleep” means eight hours actually asleep, not eight hours spent lying in bed. So if you’re looking to sleep eight hours per night give yourself at least nine hours to fall asleep, stay asleep and then wake up. You’ll feel much better as a result.

BEDS ARE FOR SLEEPING

Many people find it easier to fall asleep once they’re in bed if they don’t read, work, watch TV, talk or text on the phone or do anything else there that isn’t related to sleep or intimacy. Creating a strong link in your brain between “bed” and “sleeping,” to the exclusion of other activities, is a powerful motivator for sleep.

—Alexander Den Heijer

Keep Defenses Up AGAINST

DIGITAL EYE STRAIN

Since computer and smartphone use took over our lives, we have worried about the toll backlit screens could be taking on our eyesight.

The rise of potentially related symptoms including blurred vision, dry eyes, headaches and neck and shoulder pain has led to a focus on digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome.

CORRECT POSITIONING

Those who spend more than two hours at a time looking at a computer or other digital device screen, which includes most of us, are at higher risk for digital eye strain, according to the American Optometric Association.

I t’s important to keep our monitors at a comfortable distance and height from our eyes. Your horizontal vision line should align with the top of the

screen so you’re looking slightly downward at what you’re viewing or typing. Keep the screen 20 to 28 inches away from your eyes for maximum comfort.

Posture also is an important factor for reducing neck and shoulder pain — your feet should be resting flat on the ground or on a foot support while your arms are held at a 90-degree angle from your body, with wrists held above the keyboard or desk. Lighting should be adjusted to eliminate as much glare on the screen as possible.

T hose who have existing vision problems exacerbated by digital eye strain may need to consult a medical eye specialist.

C AUTION WITH BLUE LIGHT

“ Blue light” is on the higher, brighter

end of the visible light spectrum and is the dominant type of light coming from digital screens, though their power is dwarfed by the blue light produced by the sun.

L ab-based research using mice or cells in a dish suggest blue light contributes to disorders including age-related macular degeneration and eye cancers, but they did not involve blue light from computer screens or live human eye tissue.

O ne large study found blue lightblocking glasses had no effect on user eye fatigue or other symptoms of eye strain. G iven that a scientific consensus has not been reached, it’s still a good idea to reduce exposure by cutting back on screen time with digital devices or use settings that reduce the amount of blue light being emitted from the screen.

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photo

Blushing Cactus Photography

“Wine is the only artwork you can drink.”

–Luis Fernando Olaverri

Cayla Mesdag

Marketing Media & Events Coordinator, Bucky’s & Yavapai Casinos

Q: What brought you to Prescott and how long have you been here?

A: Community is what brought my family and me to Prescott when I was just 8 years old. From the moment we arrived, I felt a genuine sense of belonging, and I quickly knew this was home. Prescott has shaped so much of who I am today, and I’m grateful to have grown up in a place that values connection and community.

Q: How did you become interested in your career field?

A: I honestly stumbled into it while searching for a local job with benefits, which wasn’t easy at the time. That opportunity led me to the Yavapai Gaming Agency, where I’ve now proudly worked for over 12 years. Along the way, what began as a job grew into a career I truly care about.

Q: What is the greatest reward of your job?

A: The greatest reward of my job is the lasting relationships I’ve built over the last 12 years. Working at the casino has given me meaningful memories, strong relationships and connections with people from all walks of life — ones I’ll carry with me forever.

Q: Where would you like to vacation next and why?

A: I would love to vacation somewhere warm, by the water with my family, especially my younger brother. We’ve never taken a trip together and being able to create that shared memory would be incredibly special and something I would always treasure.

Q: If you could have dinner with any three to five people (dead or alive) who would it be?

A: My Mommom, Bill Murray and Madam C.J. Walker. Each represents something meaningful to my family, laughter and inspiration.

Q: What is your favorite Prescott activity?

A: One of my favorite Prescott activities is attending the World’s Oldest Rodeo®. It’s a tradition that truly captures the spirit, history and pride of our community. I also love visiting the Annual Gingerbread Village at the Prescott Resort. Seeing the incredible seasonal creations from local families, businesses and community members is always special. Both experiences highlight what makes Prescott so unique: strong traditions, creativity and a genuine sense of community.

“Working at the casino has given me meaningful memories, strong relationships and connections with people from all walks of life — ones I’ll carry with me forever.”

-Cayla Mesdag

From left: Tyler Mesdag, Charles Manly, Addison Mesdag, Cayla Mesdag

Photo by Wild Thistle Photography

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