Telling the stories that shape our community.
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
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.”
Celtic Spells: A Powerful Evening of Music, Storytelling, and One Remarkable Woman
When Celtic Spells arrives at the Jim & Linda Lee Performing Arts Center on Saturday, March 7, audiences will experience far more than a concert. At its heart is Máiréad Nesbitt – a Grammy® and Emmy®-nominated violinist, composer, and founding member of the internationally celebrated phenomenon Celtic Woman – whose artistry, passion, and storytelling have captivated millions around the world.
The Power in Connection and Guidance
Liberty Casarez and her Little Sister Dulce, 16, have been matched through Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters for more than five years. They are cheeseburger connoisseurs and enjoy finding amazing ones to try. They venture to museums like Sharlot Hall as well.
“I was familiar with the program, but thought I might not have enough time to be able to take part,” Liberty said. “I recognized the impact mentorship can have on a young person’s life; there is power in connection and guidance, especially at a young age.”
Hilary Dartt – 2021
Hilary Dartt loves great adventures, whether she’s writing, reading, or living them. The author of nine women’s fiction novels, Hilary lives in Arizona’s high desert with her husband, their three children, her Weimaraner and running partner, Leia, a failed barn cat, and a flock of chickens. She loves camping, exploring in the Jeep, and dance parties with her kids.
Elegance, Care, and Artistic Soul
The approach of the holidays is the perfect time to discover Arc en Ciel (Ciel Studio)—a Prescott creative studio and boutique whose offerings bring elegance, care, and artistic soul to any gift list. Founded and run by mother‑daughter team Roberta Benjamin and Brooke Benjamin Hart, Ciel offers more than products—it offers pieces of art and experiences.
On the Path to Bigger Things
For more than 50 years, Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters (YBBBS) has made meaningful supported matches between adult volunteers (Bigs) and youth (Littles) ages six through 24. YBBBS develops positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of local young people.
How Far Will Your Dreams Take You?
Once upon a time, there was a wild, fiery dreamer inside of each of us, who dreamed of far-off lands and adventures to be had. As we grew older and adulthood began knocking on our door, for many, those dreams were put up on a shelf and replaced by the never-ending responsibilities of everyday life: career, deadlines, family, health, and more.
Pawsitively Perfect Pet Plants
Bringing the outdoors in with lush greenery is an excellent way to spruce up your sweet home. Extra care is needed for your indoor plants if you have furry friends roaming around. We want our pets to be happy and healthy, but some common houseplants can cause anything from mild irritation to a full-blown pet emergency. Keep your pet paradise toxin-free and choose plants that won’t make our four-legged pals do a double take.
Fortunately, many “pawsitively perfect” pet-friendly plants can add life and beauty to your home without posing a risk to your beloved animals. Here are a few of the best choices, along with tips on how to grow them indoors:
Not Just for Adults
Prior to starting her career as a chiropractor and owner of Thrive Family Chiropractic, Dr. Anita Scheer had a career as an accountant. But it was her passion about understanding the intricate connection between the brain and body—and how that connection influences our overall well-being—that drew her to a second career. She said, “Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative power of neurologically based chiropractic care and supporting individuals at every stage of life—and that is what drives me every day.”
After working with so many patients, Dr. Scheer noticed a growing need among families dealing with neurodevelopmental challenges in their children—challenges like socialization, behavior and learning difficulties. She knew right then to foster her decision to dedicate the scope of her practice to helping these affected children. Now, as a certified Pediatric Experience©, FOCUS Academy© certified doctor, and Brain Blossom© provider, Dr. Scheer offers specialized care that supports and nurtures whole child development focusing on both the brain and the body.
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.
The Future of Real Estate
When Carissa Maxwell set out to become a real estate agent, she did so to change her life. This past January, when she launched Glow Realty, she did it so she could change the lives of others.



















