Locals Supporting Local

Prescott Woman Magazine (PWM) was established in 2004 as a community-based publication honoring women in the Prescott, Prescott Valley, Chino Valley, and Dewey areas (also known as the Quad-cities).  We are fully owned and operated locally and the team at PWM can often be found supporting community events, serving on non-profit boards, volunteering, and supporting local businesses.  Learn more about us here

WFSA

October/November 2024
Health & Beauty Edition
…and as always – Strong Women!

Elevating the Whole Community

new report from Mental Health America found that in 2021-2022, 23 percent of adults experienced a mental illness in the past year—equivalent to 60 million Americans.

About one in five youth had at least one major depressive episode in the past year and more than half of those didn’t receive treatment.

2022 had the highest number of deaths by suicide ever recorded in the U.S.

These statistics correlate with the growth of Polara Health, whose leadership team is committed to elevating the entire community through innovative services and programs, each with the goal of providing integrated, whole-person care.

“I feel like I have the ability every single day to change the trajectory for some people,” said Tamara Player, Polara’s President and Chief Executive Officer.

“I am APS”

Arizona Public Service (APS), an Arizona-born and -raised company, which promises to “do what is right for the people and prosperity of our state.”

Mackenzie Rodgers has lived that promise every day for the past seventeen years, and to her that means making dreams come true while providing reliable electricity.

Now the Senior Director of Transmission and Distribution Operations and Maintenance previously based in Prescott but recently had her office moved to Phoenix supporting the entire state, her role is “proactively maintaining the grid so it’s there when you need it, and operating it in an efficient manner.”

Championing Community and Empowerment

With Breeanya’s extensive list of titles and work to be done each week, she finds healthy ways to keep a positive work-life balance, which she said isn’t just about juggling responsibilities; it’s about thriving in both your professional and personal life. By striking the right balance, you’ll unlock greater fulfillment, boost productivity, and create a life that’s truly worth living.

“Work-life balance can undoubtedly be challenging, but it’s important,” she said. “My favorite ways to recharge are to hike, spend quality time with friends and loved ones, walk the dog, and travel. Traveling offers a nice escape from the daily grind, and I love learning about other cultures.”

In the face of adversity, Breeanya’s resilience shines through. She launched the “Empowering Women – Got a Minute? Podcast” amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic with the idea of telling local women’s stories differently. She uplifts listeners through candid conversations and inspiring stories, reminding them of their strength and resilience in the face of life’s obstacles.“We all hold the tools to empower each other just by listening and lifting each other,” she said. “Talking with someone and telling your story is empowering and impactful.”

Making New Friends

Prescott Woman Magazine writer and editor, Hilary Dartt, who’s also an author, recounts how her writing career began twenty years ago. “I had just graduated as a Creative Writing Major from Cal State Long Beach and was looking for a job there. My brother had moved to Prescott on an Embry-Riddle wrestling scholarship and my parents followed. On a whim I applied for a position at the Daily Courier, and they ended up hiring me.”

Later, when a former Prescott Woman Magazine writer moved, she gifted Hilary her freelance accounts, one of which included writing for the now 20-year-old magazine. “The timing was perfect serendipity for launching my full-time freelance writing career.”

Formerly a marathon and half-marathon runner, Hilary misses the sport that, she said “was such a huge part of my identity at that time. I now know that the universe was pointing me in the direction to spend more time on my author career. Running demands so much time, and now I could use that energy to focus on writing books at a more accelerated pac

Being Better

Tara Fort has written for Prescott Woman Magazine for about 17 years—and has become a fixture at the publication. Yet her work there is just one of many facets that comprise this accomplished and versatile Prescott resident.

These days, she primarily works alongside her husband, Simon, a member of Prescott High School’s class of 1982 and a real estate agent with Berkshire Hathaway (she has her real estate license, too).

“I feel really grateful that I can work from home and have the flexibility to work with Simon. He’s a top producer, a go-getter, and a marketing person. I learn so much from him.”

Taking the Time to Pause

Trisha Shaffer loves capturing the “little moments”: the spontaneity, laughter, and tender moments exchanged among the people she photographs.

Prescott Woman magazine’s staff photographer said her love for photography originated from her great grandparents’ black and white photographs from the late 1800s and early 1900s. As a child, she’d look at them and use her imagination to take her back in time.

Building on a Legacy

Haley Construction has come a long way in the nearly 70 years since Jim and Frances Haley launched it in Globe with nothing more than a borrowed $1,000 and an old Ford truck. Today, their granddaughter Gillian Haley strives to secure the company’s reputation as a local firm that can handle all types of projects, from custom homes to even the biggest commercial buildings.

Getting the Epic Shot

Kimberly Marsh never planned to start a photography business. Now, a decade in, she said during a recent interview, “I love it.”

Kim specializes in portraits and personal branding—and doing things differently.

Shortly after she started photographing people, others would see the photos and say, “I can see their soul in that picture,” or, “I feel like I know them,” or, “I can see straight through them.”

‘You Deserve to Feel Safe’

The Yavapai Family Advocacy Center’s (YFAC) mission statement reads: “to reduce trauma to victims of abuse by providing a safe and supportive environment and facilitating a team approach to advocacy, investigation, and prosecution.”

But the people behind the organization describe their work a bit differently; they say they guide their clients to find their voice, take back their power, and rediscover their worth and value (or discover them for the first time).

Enlighted and Empowered: Understanding your Risk for Breast Cancer

One in eight women will develop breast cancer during their lifetimes. An estimated five to ten percent of those breast cancers will be linked to gene mutations passed through many generations of the family. Hormonal changes, lifestyle, and environmental factors also play a role in the development of breast cancer. This means breast cancer is likely caused by a complicated interaction of genetic makeup, the environment, and lifestyle.

Shaping School Culture

For the Character Coaches at Prescott Unified School District (PUSD), offering a positive impact on students’ lives is the highest priority. These women have the essential role of teaching strength-building skills for character development in many forms including assisting with conflict resolution; developing social skills; providing supporting and preventive interaction with students in the playground, lunchroom and other unstructured areas; helping develop positive relationships with students and families; viewing and assisting with low-level behavior remediation and intervention/conflict; and teaching self-regulation and coping skills to ensure classroom success methods.

Catch a Ride on Yav Connect!

Yav Connect, operated by the Central Yavapai Metropolitan Organization (CYMPO), supports your daily commute. This microtransit service, now expanding from Prescott Valley into the heart of Prescott, will make getting around easier and more convenient for residents. By choosing Yav Connect, you’re not just getting a ride—you’re contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable environment and a more connected community.

Difficulties Become Possibilities

any daily miracles occur through Horses with Heart in Chino Valley. A new Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) program promises to create even more.

Accredited through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International, Horses with Heart has provided therapeutic riding to people with disabilities, veterans, first responders, and seniors since 1993.

EAL is an experiential learning method (based on experiences and observation) that promotes personal growth and improved life skills through partnership with horses. Skills developed include trust, confidence, communication, social skills, boundary setting, respect, critical thinking, teamwork, problem-solving, decision-making, and leadership. Credentialed facilitators guide safe interactions with our horses.

‘Something for Every Learner’

Tiffany Boehle said the best part of her job is “the chance to be creative and facilitate projects that benefit PUSD students and families while solving problems along the way.”

As the Prescott Unified School District’s (PUSD) Director of Career and Technical Education (CTE), Tiffany manages a department of twelve CTE programs on the Prescott High School (PHS) campus.

“I enjoy helping students find career paths that benefit them and the community, and there are so many CTE opportunities that are available to students for free,” she said. “CTE offers students a low-risk opportunity to learn skills, develop professionalism and earn industry certificates that lead to steady employment and fill critical and high-demand professional needs of our community.”

An Invaluable Learning Experience

As the world’s leading higher education institution for aviation and aerospace, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University ensures its students acquire expert knowledge through faculty guidance, hands-on experience, and research.

 Embry-Riddle Summer Programs will offer these opportunities and more to pre-college teenagers considering a future in science, technology, flight, and beyond this summer.

“We are excited to welcome students to our Prescott Campus again,” said Summer Programs Manager Jenn Downing. “Whatever your interest, you will find the perfect mix of academics and camp fun waiting for you.”

It’s All in the Data

Prescott Unified School District’s (PUSD) Testing Coordinator Rene Steingraber’s goal is to meet the district’s ever-changing proficiency testing and assessment needs. With that in mind, she assists educators, board members, and the public in understanding the data state testing provides through its assessment of students in grades three through 11.

“In the past, states did not have all of the proficiency testing expectations required by law today,” Rene said. “Over time, districts began seeing a need to better monitor the learning of all students.” 

Find Your Spark

Carissa Maxwell is on a mission. Through her new young women’s program, Find Your Spark, the owner of Glow Realty aspires to empower girls and young women to explore who they are becoming and what they’re interested in by providing a platform to ignite curiosity.

The goal: for these young people, ages thirteen to twenty-five, to advocate for themselves and create intentional lives.

PHS Grad Georgia Harrington Heads to Juilliard in the Fall

With an alum list boasting celebrities like Viola Davis, Val Kilmer and Jessica Chastain, it is with true Prescott Pride that one of our own shares her journey from dream to acceptance at one of the most prestigious performing arts schools in the world: The Juilliard School. Georgia Harrington, a 2023 Prescott High School graduate, was accepted into Juilliard and will be majoring in acting there starting this fall.

Innovation Within Tradition

The Margot Fonteyn Academy of Ballet and Fine Arts (MFAB) reopens its world headquarters this August in Prescott, having relocated from New York and survived COVID. Sometimes it’s not just a dancer, but an entire Academy, that picks itself up off the mat.

Celebrating Success for Each Child

At Cedar Tree Montessori, learning is individualized, and the focus is on success.

Owned and operated by Debbie and Aly McMillan, the school, which just completed its 16th year, offers toddler programs for children 18 months to three years old, and a Montessori preschool program for children who are two-and-a-half to five years old.

Connection and True Healing

Family Nurse Practitioner Louella Bauman started Yavapai Family Medical two years ago so she could practice medicine the way she sees it: as a modality to truly heal her patients.

“I wanted to be able to find the cause of the symptoms so we could actually cure patients instead of just treating them,” she said.

The Prescott native and Prescott High School class of 2000 graduate said during a recent interview that while many patients come in seeking relief from their symptoms, she said, “symptoms are not the illness, they direct you to the cause”.

Louella and her staff take a more natural approach, looking deeper and seeking to treat the deficiency behind the symptom’s cause and cure the root problem. In fact, in addition to her certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice, Louella recently earned her certification as an Acute Practice Holistic Nurse Practitioner (also known as a naturopath).

Mended & Whole Counseling

Mended & Whole Counseling, established in February 2023 by Kimberly Langford, provides a compassionate space for individuals seeking healing and restoration. The practice offers a wide range of services designed to address various aspects of mental health and emotional well-being.

Kimberly, a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) and Licensed Associate Substance Abuse Counselor (LASAC) in Arizona, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her clients. With degrees in Psychology, Christian Counseling, and Addiction Counseling from Liberty University, and trauma certifications from the Trauma Institute International, she has dedicated her career to helping others navigate the complexities of trauma and recovery.

Improving the Community for Generations to Come

It’s a rare and exciting opportunity when we are presented with a chance to improve the community for generations to come. Thirty-five years ago, a small, grassroots group of like-minded Prescott citizens was given that opportunity. Little did they know that future generations would continue to benefit from their concern for children and their vision for the community’s future.

Autumn Wellness Bucket List

Hello, fall! I love autumn in Prescott. Maybe you do, too? Crisp air, bright blue skies; the return of pumpkin, squash, and other comfort foods; Halloween and spooky ghost stories…

Many women’s lives speed up in autumn, with kids back in school, work projects on the upswing, and minds turning to holiday preparation.

As a doctor I see a pattern this time of year: every autumn, women feel invigorated about their health and come to me ready to finally lose weight, get blood pressure down, get hormones balanced, etc.

But autumn life is vibrant and stimulating and it’s happening all around them, so they easily lose focus on their own health goals. They live, they slip, and they feel guilty that they’re not being “perfect” (even though they promised themselves that this time, they would be).

To Kegel or Not to Kegel?

When asked about your pelvic floor health, what usually comes to mind is the kegel. But what exactly is a kegel, and what are its health benefits? Ask a group of people and there would be many answers because there isn’t a clear consensus on what a kegel does, how to do it correctly, and whether it helps.

Most agree that kegels help strengthen your pelvic floor muscles and manage incontinence. We know they’re named after a 1940s American male gynecologist, Dr. Arnold H. Kegel, and were considered a non-surgical method to prevent women from leaking urine. Beyond that, there’s a lack of specificity in what muscles in the pelvic floor kegels actually engage, who should be doing them, and for how long.

Making a Difference for Those Battling Breast Cancer

Trails 4 Tatas (T4T) is so much more than just a fundraiser. It is a dedicated group of off-roading volunteers being supported by an amazingly giving community, who are making a significant difference in the lives of those battling breast cancer in Yavapai County.

The Summit 4×4 Club and Girls Tribe started raising money for the Baskin Breast Care Center at YRMC in 2019. The first event was a small auction of donated items, and it raised about $1,500. How things have changed! In 2023 alone, T4T raised almost $60,000.

A New Approach to Chronic Pain Relief

By now, you have probably heard of the “mindfulness movement.” You may have read a magazine article or two, and it’s hard to ignore the ever-growing collection of mindfulness books at the bookstore or library. Many people who have tried it say mindfulness has made a remarkable difference in their quality of life.

Now take mindfulness and apply it to medicine; specifically, the treatment of chronic pain. This is what internationally acclaimed neurosurgeon Dr. Sam Safavi-Abbasi and neurosurgical nurse practitioner and certified somatic experiencing practitioner Elisa Venezia are bringing to their patients, right here in the Quad Cities area.

A Surprising and Delightful Remedy

The Mediterranean diet.

With its heavy focus on a plant-based diet along with healthy protein and anti-inflammatory fats, the Mediterranean diet can change women’s bodies and also, maybe, help them heal their relationship with food (did I mention the ravioli?).

Plus, the Mediterranean diet provides essential nutrients to help breastfeeding mamas maintain a healthy milk supply.

Good for You

Are you thinking about becoming a volunteer at Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center? Good for you. And we mean, literally, “Good for you.” Yavapai Regional volunteers are reaping benefits on many different levels. Here are just a few:

Good for your social life. Countless Yavapai Regional volunteers tell us that what started as a volunteer shift has resulted in lasting friendships. It’s a great way to make friends and get involved with like-minded people. You’ll often see our volunteers having lunch together in the cafeteria before their shifts begin or getting together after hours to attend various community events. Some of our volunteers even travel together.

Good for your physical and mental health. Research by the Corporation for National and Community Service shows that people who volunteer have lower mortality rates, lower rates of depression, and fewer physical limitations than those who don’t volunteer. Additionally, a 2013 study of more that 1,600 older adults found that the participants who volunteered at least 200 hours per year were forty percent less likely to get high blood pressure than non-volunteers.

Pregnant? Get Outside!

Light has a way of shifting perspective. For years, walks have provided me time and space for reframing challenges, enjoying victories, and planning ahead. And I’m not unique: as I write this, a dear friend is asking herself some big questions while she walks the Camino de Santiago in sunny Spain.

Getting outside is essential for physical and mental wellness, especially in pregnancy. Historically, pregnant women were told to take it easy; we know now how essential movement is to a healthy pregnancy and a better postpartum. Most pregnant people can walk safely, and it also gets you outside for fresh air and sunshine.

Sunlight also boosts vitamin D levels: vitamin D is both a vitamin and a hormone, and its synthesis begins when sunlight hits your skin. Vitamin D is necessary for your health throughout your lifetime, but it becomes really important in pregnancy and postpartum.

The Ritual of Tattoo

Prescott Woman magazine interviewed Kat, owner of Miss Kitty Tattoo. We learned about how much she values clients feeling safe and supported while healing or celebrating through tattoos.

The Art of the Tattoo Business

Prescott Woman magazine interviewed Summer Henry, owner of Avatar Tat2. We learned about how much she values clients feeling safe and supported while healing or celebrating through tattoos.

Wrapped in Love

The Wrapped in Love Diaper Bank (WiL) is a simple idea with a big impact. Created to address a growing need in Yavapai County, WiL supports community members’ health and wellbeing by collecting diapers, feminine hygiene products, and incontinence supplies and distributing them to those in need through partners such as school-based family resource centers, community agencies, and family programs.

Not An Ordinary Charity

United Way of Yavapai County (UWYC) is not an ordinary charity … it has been the go-to charity for residents and businesses across Yavapai County since 1987. With your help, UWYC can be the most impactful non-profit organization in our community.

By identifying community challenges, developing a plan to address those needs, and then empowering other non-profit organizations to solve those problems, UWYC helps strengthen the community and lift people out of poverty while also helping local businesses create a culture of giving.

UWYC raises money locally through payroll deduction, provides volunteer opportunities and hosts drives for schools, food banks, shelters, and more. Currently the organization grants funds to more than 30 different charitable programs countywide.

Difficulties Become Possibilities

any daily miracles occur through Horses with Heart in Chino Valley. A new Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) program promises to create even more.

Accredited through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International, Horses with Heart has provided therapeutic riding to people with disabilities, veterans, first responders, and seniors since 1993.

EAL is an experiential learning method (based on experiences and observation) that promotes personal growth and improved life skills through partnership with horses. Skills developed include trust, confidence, communication, social skills, boundary setting, respect, critical thinking, teamwork, problem-solving, decision-making, and leadership. Credentialed facilitators guide safe interactions with our horses.

A Safe Haven for Pets

Are you and your pets prepared for a possible fire, flood, or other emergency requiring you to evacuate? Animal Disaster Services, Inc. (ADS) provides a free, 24-hour temporary shelter for household pets and small domesticated animals during a disaster. ADS is entirely mobile, has predetermined shelter locations, and is under the direction of the Yavapai County Office of Emergency Management. Established in 1999, it is the only household pet emergency shelter organization in Arizona, covering all of Yavapai County.

Giving Wheels … and Hope

Since opening April 1, 2023, C and C Cyclery, Carmen and Casey Hines have donated bikes to those in need, particularly those in recovery/Reentry and children. In doing so, they strive to give hope and strength, as well. Carmen’s goal is to raise enough funds to not only support these groups, but to also start a nonprofit organization (501C3) to include the adaptive/disabled community in need of transportation and much needed outdoor time.

Now, Carmen and Casey are partnering with Josh Lederer, owner of Recovery Electric, and Robin DePalma, an owner of the NAZ Wranglers, for the Pay it Forward Bike Drive and Raffle.

Heard, Valued, Understood

Whole person care at Polara Health represents a fundamental shift in our approach to healthcare, emphasizing the importance of addressing not only physical health but also an individual’s emotional, social, and mental well-being. It is an approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of all these aspects in shaping an individual’s overall health and quality of life.

Whole person care improves health outcomes and creates a more patient-centered and empathetic experience where patients feel heard, valued, and understood; something we all desire and need in our lives.

AAUW: Celebrating 75 Years of Community Service in Prescott

The Prescott Branch of the American Association of University Women celebrated 75 Years of community service to women and girls on Jan.13 at the Center for Spiritual Living. Attendees recalled AAUW Prescott’s role in bringing to life projects such as the Yavapai College Del E. Webb Family Enrichment Center, Stepping Stones Agencies’ advocacy services, Girls’ Rock-It Day STEM experience, The Reality Store® career/life simulation, and $35,000 in scholarships awarded since 2007.

A New Beginning for A Remarkable Company 

Yavapai Exceptional Industries (YEI!) is a remarkable company. A non-profit agency that helps local adults with developmental disabilities and provides them with support for job training, volunteer placement, and employment, its staff has grown from 12 to 45.

Helping to Break the Cycle of Poverty

Teens’ Closet, a program of North Star, provides free, quality clothing to Prescott quad-city-area teens ages 13-19 who are in financial need. Set up like a clothing boutique, Teens’ Closet is located on the campus of Taylor Hicks Elementary School. Teens can come in every other month to shop with a parent or guardian if they’re under 18. They can make appointments by calling 928.379.1667.

In the Community, Of the Community, For the Community

The support and care Polara Health provides to individuals and families in times of need is a lifeline. This organization has brought hope and healing to those who are struggling and borne witness to countless success stories where lives have been transformed.

The impact does not stop at the doors of the 13 different facilities in Yavapai County. Polara Health is deeply involved in the community, working hand in hand with local organizations, schools, and the larger healthcare system to address the broader factors that influence mental health. Polara Health’s community partners have become essential allies in the journey to make lasting positive changes.

Making a Difference for Those Battling Breast Cancer

Trails 4 Tatas (T4T) is so much more than just a fundraiser. It is a dedicated group of off-roading volunteers being supported by an amazingly giving community, who are making a significant difference in the lives of those battling breast cancer in Yavapai County.

The Summit 4×4 Club and Girls Tribe started raising money for the Baskin Breast Care Center at YRMC in 2019. The first event was a small auction of donated items, and it raised about $1,500. How things have changed! In 2023 alone, T4T raised almost $60,000.

A Holiday Experience for All to Enjoy

Skip the decorating and impress your holiday guests by purchasing a one-of-a-kind tree or wreath that can be delivered to your door. Festival of Trees Prescott is celebrating its 7th year of kicking off the holiday season in Arizona’s Christmas City, Wednesday, November 20 through Saturday, November 23.

During this holiday favorite, local businesses come together to create a beautifully decorated forest of Christmas trees and wreaths that are then sold to the public. This event is held at the beautiful and historic Sam Hill Warehouse in downtown Prescott.

Arizona’s Christmas City

The festivities kick off with the 27th Annual Holiday Light Parade & Bonfire Festival at 6 p.m. Saturday, November 30 on Cortez Street. Led by Santa, the parade features more than 40 illuminated floats and music from local school bands. The fun continues at Mile High Middle School’s field from 7 to 8:30 p.m. with music, Santa visits, and reindeer games for the kids. Enjoy a closer look at the floats parked on the field and live performances from Prescott High School and Bradshaw Mountain High School marching bands. Entrance is through the gate on Goodwin Street, across from Old Firehouse Plaza.

Dancing Through the Ages

The Boys & Girls Clubs are experts in fun. Everything we do has fun in it and that includes our annual gala in support of our work. Dancing for the Stars is a performance-based gala event that you don’t want to miss. Now in its eighth year, Dancing has risen to be a treasure to our community. In the vein of the popular TV show, local celebrities have been called upon to raise funds for our kids and their adventures. In addition to raising money for the kids, our celebrities, along with their professional dancer partners, will dazzle and thank our donors with a jaw dropping performance for all our guests.

Prescott Area Artist Studio Tour Returns October 4-6

The Prescott Area Artist Studio Tour will return over the weekend of October 4-6, 2024, offering attendees an opportunity to visit with 74 juried artists across 53 private studios (as well as additional artists in four Art Centers), observe their creative processes and purchase one-of-a-kind works of art. The Tour, which will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, will showcase many different artistic mediums — from painting and ceramics to jewelry and glass — in locations throughout the Prescott/Quad-City area. Attendees of this free, self-guided event may begin at any location and visit as many studios as they like. For detailed information and maps, visit www.PrescottStudioTour.com.

5th Annual Prescott Plein Air Festival Celebrates “Art in the Pines”

The Yavapai College Prescott Art Gallery and the Yavapai College Foundation are pleased to present “Art in the Pines: The 5th Annual Prescott Plein Air Festival.” From October 9-13, 2024, the festival will feature nineteen juried Arizona artists and one California artist painting in outdoor settings throughout Yavapai County, including the area’s beautiful pine forests and highland lakes and amidst the historical and architectural beauty of downtown Prescott. At specific accessible demonstration sites, the public can observe and engage with the artists at no cost. 

Crafting Success and Disrupting Spaces

Women in business are passionate and driven, yet still face unequal access to resources. From 2019 to 2023, women-owned businesses outpaced men’s in growth: 94.3 percent in number of firms, 252.8 percent in employment, and 82.0 percent in revenue, according to the 2024 Wells Fargo Impact of Women-Owned Business Report. Providing a platform for these women to share their insights is crucial for uplifting others.

Continuing the call for support, Better Business Bureau (BBB) is hosting its 7th annual Industrious Women’s Summit (IWS) on Friday, August 23. This one-day event honoring Women’s Equality Day fosters connections for women in male-dominated industries.

Prescott’s 4th Friday Art Walk: A Celebration of Art and Community

Experience the vibrant arts scene in Prescott every 4th Friday of the month as 16 galleries in and around the historic downtown courthouse plaza open their doors for early evening events, including signature exhibits and artist receptions. This monthly event, established in 2004, showcases the work of local and nationally acclaimed artists.

“Prescott Traditions”

Prescott Frontier Days®, Inc is thrilled to announce the much anticipated 137th annual World’s Oldest Rodeo, taking place from Monday, July 1 through Sunday, July 7 in Prescott. This iconic event, held during the bustling Fourth of July week, is a cornerstone of Prescott’s summer calendar, driving economic prosperity throughout the county. Featuring a week-long extravaganza of world-class rodeo action and family-friendly entertainment, the World’s Oldest Rodeo stands as Prescott’s premier event of the year.

Drawing rodeo enthusiasts from across the globe, Prescott Frontier Days invites attendees to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of western culture and history dating back to its inaugural celebration on July 4, 1888. This year, the rodeo pays tribute to the deep-rooted western culture, embodying the theme of “Prescott Traditions.” As part of the festivities, the rodeo is launching the Memory Catcher campaign, inviting fans nationwide to share their cherished memories and stories of Prescott rodeo traditions. These stories will be featured on the rodeo’s website and social media platforms, celebrating the enduring legacy of Prescott’s premier event.

A Rockin’ Good Time for 20 Years!

A handful of dedicated rockhounds started the Prescott Gem and Mineral Club in 2003.  Today it’s one of the largest gem clubs in Arizona, boasting a membership of more than 300 people.

Monthly meetings occur at the Community Center in Chino Valley.  The club invites guests to attend and learn more.  Most months meetings include a program on various subjects ranging from rockhounding field trips to beading to local geology.

The Club held its first show in 2004.  It wasn’t much more than a tailgate party for the members.  Over the years the show has grown from its meager beginnings in the livestock building at the Yavapai County Fairgrounds, where the flies outnumbered the patrons, to what it is today, the largest indoor show in Northern Arizona.  In 2024, the show will again take over the Findlay Toyota Center in Prescott Valley for three days of rockin’ fun!

Breathing Fresh Air into Downtown Prescott

Palomino Lifestyle Co. has breathed new life into downtown Prescott, offering an elevated blend of fashion, home decor, and professional styling. Since its grand opening in April 2024, this boutique has quickly established itself as a one-stop shop for accessible elegance and sophistication, thanks to the vision and dedication of owner Andrea Wojciak.

Achieving True Wellness

Owner of Hometown Aesthetics and Wellness strives to help patients feel their absolute best By Hilary Dartt As a Nurse Practitioner, Laura Gray has found her sweet spot. Her career has included some pretty exciting components. She became a registered nurse before...

The Art of Giving People Confidence

Owning a salon where she can combine her passions for cosmetology and art is a dream come true for master stylist and colorist Laura Covell.

This summer, she opened Alchemist Studio, an eco-friendly salon, in Prescott Valley—and she said during a recent interview that she looks forward to building not just a clientele, but also a community.

The Synergy of Women Coming Together

Local business owners Cecilia Lookingback and Candace Devine believe that when women come together, authentically, they can achieve powerful results.

Since the two met, they have cross collaborated on many projects, sponsoring and promoting each other’s brands. The latest example of that: their brands will work together during the Pure Imagination Festival on May 20 in Prescott, alongside a lineup of other local businesses and partners.

The relationship Cecilia and Candace have developed is about an even bigger movement: women empowering women. Candace said she’d love to see businesses cross collaborate on a larger scale, choosing female-led partners to support one another.

Be-YOU-tiful

Leah Gosik at Bella by Leah focuses on letting your natural beauty shine through with the use of beneficial products for skincare and beauty. 

The Legacy Continues

Through Penelope’s Salon & Boutique, Penny Clark Denney is carrying on the mission and legacy of her mother-in-law Barbara Denney. Longtime residents will remember Barbara, one of the first to offer permanent cosmetics in the Prescott area when she moved here in 1994. Penny is working to fill the hole left in the permanent cosmetics community when Barbara passed away in 2019.

Look and Feel Your Best

Bella by Leah offers quality products, lessons, and beauty services to brides and bridal parties … and for anyone who wants to feel special, any time. Leah Gosick, owner of Bella by Leah, leads a bride-to-be through the important steps of how to obtain the perfect makeup look for the wedding day.

Fall Fashion 2021

Check out our 2021 Fall Fashion finds from Clothes Hound, SOAR Pilates, SmartGirls, Purple Clover, The Hike Shack, and Stepping Stones.

‘Beauty Becomes You’

That’s why her tagline is “Beauty becomes you,” she said, because when women feel beautiful, they feel great … and radiate confidence.

The stylists at Penelope’s Permanent Cosmetics and Salon Boutique can create beautiful up ‘dos for holiday parties and events, or simply for a new look in the New Year.

Feel Good, Look Great

Laser teeth whitening. Using the latest gel technology, we can make teeth a full shade whiter in just 30 minutes. This safe and effective treatment offers instant results, zero downtime, and is completely painless.

Elevating the Campus Dining Experience

n a move to eliminate a third-party contract food service provider, Yavapai College (YC) tapped local Aimee Novak. This experienced entrepreneur will lead revamped in-house services, bringing a fresh design, flow, and menu to the YC campus.

Aimee, YC’s Director of Culinary Experience, is no stranger to the Prescott food and business scene. She previously owned Soldi Restaurant (where she was the chef) and Apropos Hair Salon. Before joining the YC team, she worked for the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Program and also served as Food Safety Coordinator for Yavapai County.

She said, “It was natural for me to shift from a salon specializing in hair color to the food industry because if you break down the elements of both, the elements are basically science and artistry—I just changed my medium.”

Sip Your Way to Wellness

Nestled in the heart of Prescott Valley, Rafter Eleven has become a beloved local gem, not just for its cozy atmosphere but also for the delightful experiences it offers. Whether you’re in need of a morning pick-me-up or looking for a serene spot to unwind after a long day, this charming wine and coffee bar has something for everyone. But beyond its inviting ambiance, there’s something special brewing there that goes beyond your average cup of joe: Rafter Eleven is on a mission to make your caffeine habit a part of your health journey.

Demystifying The Drizzle

Feeling overwhelmed by the endless rows of olive oil and balsamic vinegar at the store? Fear not, fellow foodie! Rafter Eleven is your friendly neighborhood gourmet shop in the heart of Prescott Valley, and its team is here to banish any balsamic bewilderment you may have.

Rafter Eleven understands that navigating the world of these flavorful elixirs can be overwhelming, but fret no more: Rafter Eleven’s welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff are here to transform you from a confused cook to a confident connoisseur.

Here’s how you can unlock the secrets of the perfect pairing and elevate your meals from “meh” to “magnificent”:

Hayley Heckethorn of Primrose Board Co.:

or native Prescottonian Hayley Heckethorn, leaving her full-time job during the pandemic proved to be a life-changing choice in a new niche-driven profession.

The founder of Primrose Board Co., Hayley—a 2020 healthcare industry graduate with a minor in Business Management from Grand Canyon University—said, “I initially started to explore careers in the wedding industry, and that’s when I discovered charcuterie boards.”

She recalled, “I brought one of my boards to a family dinner and my sister said, ‘You should do this as a business!’ I didn’t think it was much of a ‘thing’ at that time.”

Wine and Dine Prescott: Featuring BiGA and Vino Wine Bar

A Refreshing New Hot Spot for Wine Lovers on Prescott’s South Side & Fresh. Modern. Local. From Pop-Up to Full Dining Brick and Mortar

Learn more about Vino Wine Bar at Prescott Pines Inn and BiGA restaurant on Miller Valley Road.

Wine and Dine Prescott Valley: Featuring Superb Food Co & Rafter Eleven

Wine: Rafter Eleven

‘It’s an Experience’

Rafter Eleven offers wine from around the world—and so much more—in a space that feels like home

Rafter Eleven is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. In addition to wine, this establishment offers coffee, olive oils, balsamic vinegars, spices, comfort food, and cocktails, as well as cooking classes … and live music every Friday and Saturday evening.

Dine: Superb Food Co.

‘A Place to Gather’

Through a varied, seasonal menu, Superb Food Co. offers comfort food with a twist

Ariel Nadelberg grew up in the restaurant industry and feels fortunate to finally own and operate her own spot, Superb Food Company. She runs the restaurant with her longtime partner Jason Shepherd and said she enjoys “the beauty of fostering a community and providing a welcoming place to gather.”

Wine and Dine Chino Valley: Featuring Winey Cats and Essence Kitchen + Bar

Wine: Winey Cats

Winey Cats provides a unique twist on wine pairings … and fosters a love for cats. Nestled in the heart of Chino Valley, this unique destination offers more than just fine wines and beautifully curated lawns to relax. It boasts a charming cat sanctuary where guests can admire adorable felines and make impactful donations.

Dine: Essence Kitchen + Bar. Owned and operated by Julia and Chef Jason, Essence is more than just a dining experience; it’s a cornerstone of community connection in Chino Valley. From Julia and Jason’s commitment to local produce from Yavapai College and hospitality programs with Chino Valley High School, to their annual fundraisers for local veterans, every detail reflects their dedication to their community.

Savoring Moments

Tucked away in the heart of our charming town of Prescott Valley, there’s a place where time seems to slow down and moments with loved ones become treasured memories. Welcome to Rafter Eleven, a haven where the aroma of freshly baked scones mingles with the rich scent of ground espresso, and laughter fills the air like a sweet melody.

The essence of family and the celebration of togetherness are woven into every aspect of Rafter Eleven’s cozy ambiance. Stepping through the door, you’re greeted by warm smiles and the alluring wall of international wine. 

Preserving a Prescott Tradition

Nestled in the heart of downtown Prescott, Papa’s Italian has been a cherished community restaurant since 1991. Stepping inside, visitors are instantly transported to the Italian countryside, surrounded by walls embellished with beautiful murals, cozy seating tailored for families of all sizes, and traditional Italian aromas filling the air.

Music, Love & Laughter to Celebrate Your Happily Ever After

When it comes to planning a wedding reception, finding the ideal venue can be a daunting task, especially in a small town. Having experienced the magic of weddings firsthand, I know Rafter Eleven is the perfect place to host an intimate celebration.

Simply step into Rafter Eleven, and you’ll immediately sense the warm and inviting atmosphere. Nestled in the heart of Prescott Valley, this charming coffee, wine, and olive oil bar offers a cozy space, perfect for hosting an intimate wedding reception. The rustic decor, soft lighting, and lush patio seating create an ambiance that feels like a warm embrace. It’s a place where love and celebration come together in an enchanting setting.

‘The Best Neighbors, Friends, and Colleagues’

Prescott Woman Magazine chatted with Tricia Berlowe, Director of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Yavapai College, to find out what makes her enjoy Prescott and everything it has to offer.

Grateful for the People and the Cooler Temps!

Prescott Woman Magazine chatted with Marilyn Mott, owner of Your CBD Store Prescott Valley, to find out what makes her enjoy Prescott and everything it has to offer.

Drawn to the Allure of the Desert

Prescott Woman Magazine chatted with Heather DeSousa, owner of DeSousa Creative, LLC, to find out what makes her enjoy Prescott and everything it has to offer.

Prescott Has it All

Prescott Woman Magazine chatted with Karen Weisser, Massage Envy’s Director of Operations for Northern Arizona, to find out what makes her enjoy Prescott and everything it offers.

Cherishing the Small-Town Charm

Prescott Woman Magazine chatted with Jennifer Burns, a multi-company entrepreneur (owner of NaturaBella Microblading and Permanent Cosmetics and Dream Travel Management, also known as AZWomen’sTravel), to find out what makes her enjoy Prescott and everything it has to offer. 

Sharing the Aloha Spirit

Prescott Woman Magazine chatted with Darla DeVille, Public Affairs Manager for the Northwest Division of APS, to find out what makes her enjoy Prescott and everything it has to offer.

‘My Heart Lies in Giving Back’

Prescott Woman Magazine chatted with Jessica Parker, owner & esthetician at NAKED Beauty Bar, to find out what makes her enjoy Prescott and everything it has to offer.

The Wonders of Nature

Prescott Woman Magazine chatted with Ellen Bashor, M.Ed., a Park Ranger and Outdoor Advocate, to find out what makes her enjoy Prescott and everything it has to offer.

‘Beauty Around Every Corner’

Prescott Woman Magazine chatted with Madison Stephens, a mom, personal trainer, line dancing instructor, and avid hiker, to find out what makes her enjoy Prescott and everything it has to offer.

‘We Have the Best’

Prescott Woman Magazine chatted with Sandy Griffis, Executive Director of the Yavapai County Contractors Association, to find out what makes her enjoy Prescott and everything it has to offer.

Building Her Destiny in Chino Valley

Some people find their niche in this life. Some carve their own. It’s accurate to say Marnee Zazueta, Yavapai College’s Chino Valley Campus Dean, climbed to the top of the academic ladder. But she built the ladder first.

“I am a Chino Valley girl,” she said. “Grew up here from kindergarten, went to Chino Valley High School.”

There, her monster work ethic caught the attention of Agriculture Teacher John Morgan. “John has been telling me, since I was thirteen, that I would be a teacher someday.”

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