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Program Encouraging Water Efficient Fixtures

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Prescott Mayor Greg Mengarelli is fond of citing the quote famously attributed to Mark Twain: “Whiskey’s for drinking; water’s for fighting over.”

In fact, he uses that phrase to highlight planning for the future and the amount of water it will take to sustain reasonable growth without jeopardizing future generations.

Mengarelli also emphasizes that water conservation is in the best interest of the greater community. He surprised people when he pointed out that even with population growth, the City of Prescott returned more water to the aquifer in 2017 than it used.

“In 2017, The City of Prescott used 6,770 acre feet of water. We returned to the aquifer 7,005 acre feet from our lakes and effluent treatment plant,” he said. “In addition, since 2014, our water usage has decreased about 2 percent on average annually.”

However, Mengarelli stresses that conservation is critical to sustain the future. The City of Prescott is urging water users to take advantage of the city’s water conservation rebate program. Qualified residents and businesses can qualify for up to $2,500 in rebates if they replace inefficient plumbing fixtures, and eliminate or reduce high water use landscaping.

Ten Conservation Items That Qualify for Rebates:

Drip Irrigation Systems. Such systems must include an automatic timer, approved backflow device and drip irrigation installation ($75 rebate).

Landscape Health Check: A certified landscape auditor must complete a thorough landscape audit. A paid invoice must be submitted ($75 rebate).

Rainwater Harvesting: A minimum of a 100-gallon capacity rainwater catchment tank or certified cistern must be installed ($0.50 per gallon, up to a $500 maximum rebate).

Turf Removal: Requires conversion from irrigated turf grass to water-saving landscaping.  A minimum of 200 square feet of residential turf or 1,000 square feet of non-residential turf removal is required ($0.25 per square foot up to $400 maximum for residential, and $800 for non-residential/commercial).

High efficiency toilets. Replacement toilets must use 1.6 gallons or less per flush ($50 rebate).

Commercial urinals. Replacement units must use 1.0 gallons or less per flush ($50 rebate).

Sprinkler Spray Head Replacement. A minimum of 12 units must be replaced ($2 per head, up to $40 maximum rebate).

Leak Repairs. This is a one-time benefit per property for eliminating leaks ($5 per leak, with a $25 maximum rebate).

Showerhead Replacement. Showerheads should not exceed 2.4 gallons per minute ($10 rebate).

Other water smart devices include low-flow, low tech devices ($10 rebate).

According to Leah Hubbard, City of Prescott water resource coordinator, Water Rebate Applications can be completed electronically at waterrebate.com or by picking up application forms and other materials at the Water Resource Management Office, 201 S. Cortex, in Prescott.

Hubbard and her staff also are continuing a series of “Water Smart: Drop by Drop,” interactive education programs about water conservation and water supplies. The next program, “State of Arizona Water Management,” is scheduled at noon, March 20, at the Founders Suite, Prescott Public Library, 215 E. Goodwin Street.

Presentations are scheduled for noon on the third Wednesday of each month.

Hubbard commented that practicing a low water-use lifestyle is a way everyone can ensure a long-term sufficient water supply. She says efficient water use will help meet current and future needs, and result in financial savings, decreased energy use and better preservation of the environment. QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN

For more information about the WaterSmart Program, visit prescottwater.com or call 928-777-1645.

Ladybug Release

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The week between Earth Day and Arbor Day is really something special! April is the peak planting season for local gardens. To celebrate these important gardening holidays, Sunday, April 28, Watters Garden Center will host it’s annual ‘Great Ladybug Release’ at 2 pm. Fun for gardeners of all ages, so bring the grandkids! Free for all to attend, with prizes for those that come in costumes Ladybugs will love. This event is an Instagram dream.

Ladybugs are the best way to control aphids, scales, mealy bugs, white flies and mites NATURALLY! These colorful carnivores can eat 60 aphids per day, and live for years in the garden, consuming over 5,000 garden pest in a lifetime. These pint-sized powerhouses keep gardens insect-free by just having lunch. No spraying, no chemicals, and NO WORK required! Beneficial Insects are stocked full all week with ladybugs, praying mantis, nematodes and worms ready for release into you the garden.

Ladybugs are a special friend to roses, and Watters Garden Center has especially grown 700 organic roses just for this event, along with a free garden class Saturday, April 27th @ 9:30 am titled “Everything Fragrant with Roses.” The entire garden center will be filled with the fragrance of roses and ladybugs.

How to Release Ladybugs in Your Garden

Keep them Cool – Ladybugs have wings and like to use them. You need to slow them down long enough to find your gardens attractive. When you get home with your ladybugs, leave the cup sealed and place them in the refrigerator or cool space. Being cool calms ladybugs down. Keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to release them that evening.

Ladybugs are thirsty – Spray or mist the parts of the garden you plan to release your ladybugs. This allows them to rehydrate before searching for a meal.

Release them at night – plan to release ladybugs in your garden at the base of a plant just as dusk arrives in the evening. If you have a plant with a particular aphid problem open the cup at the bottom of that plant. This gives them the night to settle in, find food and realize that your garden is a great place to live!

Get your kids involved! Children especially have fun releasing ladybugs, and this is a great way to teach them about environmental responsibility. Ladybugs stick around safe sources of food so kids will find them all season long. Stop by Watters Garden Center for a cup of ladybugs, take them to your garden, then have fun enjoying nature in your own backyard.

Contact:

Ken Davis

Watters Garden Center

kendavis@wattersgardencenter.com

Cell 603-456-3581

Racing to Begin Soon at Arizona Downs

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Barring unforeseen difficulties, Memorial Day weekend will have the starter’s gun firing, horses galloping and the announcer shouting, “They’re off!”

Arizona Downs in Yavapai County now seems primed to become another major destination in Central Arizona.

In the past five months, experienced racetrack personnel have converted what was a weed-covered, eroded and generally abandoned horseracing complex into one of the most contemporary tracks in the Southwest.

Ann McGovern, general manager for Arizona Downs, is unabashedly enthusiastic about the future of what will be Arizona’s second largest racetrack.

The biggest is Turf Paradise in Phoenix. It operates only during the fall and winter seasons when temperatures are not extreme and dangerous for racehorsing in the Valley of the Sun.

McGovern gave the Quad Cities Business News an exclusive tour of the renovated facilities. All the while, she praised the support and cooperation she has received from consultants, contractors, vendors, laborers and staff in resurrecting the once falling-apart facilities into a coveted destination for horse owners, trainers and, of course, race fans.

“We couldn’t be happier with the general contractor we have, Midwest Construction. But just as important, we are emphatic that we hire local employees and use local vendors and suppliers. We’re a member of this community. We intend to be here a long time,” said McGovern, who lives in Prescott Valley with her family.

She hesitated to cite the precise figure spent in bringing Arizona Downs back into operation after almost 10 years of being moribund. “Let’s just say somewhere between $7 million to $10 million has been put into the economy.”

She stood at the front of the multi-story
grandstand, recently painted in muted earth tones. It also has been reroofed and completely rehabilitated. “Arizona Downs will be as fine a racetrack as you can find in the Southwest,” said McGovern. “We can seat at least 1,000 fans in the bleachers.”

Back inside the totally renovated third floor, McGovern wandered through the 300-person-capacity contemporary dining room, fully equipped for full-service meals as well as buffets. She suggested that eating a “fine meal” while viewing the sweeping chaparral and sage landscape rolling across the horizon was “…as good as it gets. We feature a Sunday brunch that guests tell me is exceptional.”

The dining room also has a full bar. It is adjacent to an event room, which can accommodate up to another 150 people.

“This is a perfect location for a private party, a reception, a wedding – or any other occasion you can think of for a celebration,” she said with a smile, while waving at guests. “We’re happy to help guests plan special events or activities. And I have to tell you – we have what we call a ‘traditional menu, but with a bit of a twist.’”

While construction work has been underway, off-track betting (OTB) has been available daily at 9 a.m. for tracks across the nation. The OTB operation also has connections with Connolly’s Sports Grill and Bull Shooters Sports Bar and Grill in Phoenix, the Museum Club in Flagstaff and Gallagher’s Pub in Lake Havasu City. McGovern said plans are to add more contracted OTB sites.

A New Jersey native, McGovern attended West Virginia University. She later moved to Tucson, where she enrolled in the University of Arizona Race Track Industry program. She has more than 30 years of experience in the horse racing industry.

She echoed what one of the owners, Corey Johnson, had earlier said. “This racetrack is going to have excellent facilities for everyone in the industry. We’ll have an exceptionally safe track. We have more than 1,000 stables for owners and trainers and their horses. We have unlimited parking. And with 90 acres of land, we have a lot of room for future growth.”

Current plans are to have horse races regularly from Memorial Day through September.

She said some races would be for American Quarter Horses, while others would be for thoroughbreds. She noted most races in the Southwest and West are for quarterhorses and are run in yards. Thoroughbred races are measured in furlongs (eight furlongs equal one mile).

“Our track is a mile long and 80 feet wide, so we can have starting gates up to 10 or 12 horses wide. That’s an advantage and race fans love such races,” she said, motioning broadly at the north to south-facing dirt, sand, loam and clay surfaced track.

McGovern emphasized that because Arizona Downs is located in the moderate summer climate of Central Arizona, and in a non-congested area, those in the racing industry would take advantage of such opportunities.

She said staff has already been receiving inquiries from all over Arizona and California, about RV facilities. One RV park is immediately adjacent to the racetrack; several others are within a few miles. 

It’s been years since horses last galloped the oval track east of Prescott Valley on Highway 89 A. Formerly known as Yavapai Downs, the racetrack was bought for $3.22 million out of bankruptcy court by J & J Equine Enterprises, LLC. The firm is owned by Phoenix-based JACOR partners (and brothers) Tom, Dave and Mike Auther and their partner, Joe Jackson, along with racing executive Corey Johnsen.

McGovern says the appeal of horseracing is growing. J and Q Equine saw an opportunity to grow the racing industry in Arizona, so they invested heavily in Arizona Downs. “They know that horse racing has historically been a family-friendly sport and its appeal seems to be increasing. It’s affordable, it’s relaxing and it’s safe.” QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN

Phippen Art Museum Expanding Activities  

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Highlighting its 35th anniversary is a year-long mission for leaders and board members at the Phippen Museum of Western Art.   

“In fact, it is far more than a mission. It is a passion,” said Edd Kellerman, the museum’s recently-named executive director.  

“Our ever-increasing visibility, coupled with the increasing number of events we host and shows and exhibits we schedule, is bringing hundreds more visitors through our doors every month. The museum has become a popular tourist destination,” said the Prescott native. “That doesn’t include the thousands more who will visit in the Annual Western Art Show and Sale around the Courthouse Square every Memorial Day. The sidewalks and lawns surrounding the iconic Courthouse will be packed.” 

Artists from throughout the Southwest will be available to meet attendees at the Western Art Show scheduled for May 25-27. 

Meanwhile, museum staff members are already at work mounting the next show called Desert Horizons. Jeannette Holverson, museum curator, said more than 90 pieces, including some created by the most notable historical and modern artists in the Southwest, will be featured at the exhibit opening Saturday, March 2. 

“Contrary to what many people think – that Arizona is nothing but parched, barren desert and wasteland – this exhibit will show the magnificent diversity and stunning panoramas we have in the Grand Canyon State,” said Holverson.  She noted dramatic paintings from the world-acclaimed Picerne Collection of Arizona Landmark Art will be featured. 

Complementing the art exhibit are several special programs.  Among them are these: 

  • Saturday, March 9, 1 p.m.: Author and historian Alan Rockman will share stories about the “fine line” between being an Old West lawman and an outlaw.  
  • Saturday, March 16, 1 p.m.: Local entertainer Parker Anderson will tell stories and lead people on excursions of “mysterious” sites and other secrets in “Haunted Prescott.” 
  • Saturday, March 23, 7 p.m.: Author and historian Eric Berg will explore Arizona’s role in World War II when he shares history, photographs and unusual details about how Arizona was a far bigger force in the war than most realize. 

 

Calling All Young Sculptors  

Not every kid has a chance to have a bronze sculpture made from his or her artwork, but “Clay Out West” will offer the opportunity in a Saturday hands-on activity where elementary, middle school and high school students receive professional instruction from award-winning sculptor Neal McEwen. He will teach students how to sculpt clay into a small object. The finished clay models then will be judged. Artists will select winners from each of the three grade levels. Those winning clay pieces will then be converted to bronze sculptures for students to keep as awards.   

McEwen also conducts weekend workshops for older people interested in sculpting horses. Details about participating in either of these programs are available from McEwen at 928-778-1385. 

Kellerman is forthright in saying that activities and programs have resulted in major attendance increases. He also attributes much of the museum’s increasing appeal to the multi-story facility expansion seven years ago. Functional space increased to 17,000 square feet. That, coupled with improved ease of accessibility to the site at 4701 Hwy 89 on the north edge of Prescott, has visitorship approaching 13,000 people annually. 

“Anyone circling the round-about at the entrance can’t help but notice that monumental bronze sculpture, ‘Cowboy in a Storm,’ that George Phippen inspired,” Kellerman said.    

Phippen is the museum’s namesake. The first president of the Cowboy Artists of America, Phippen who then lived in Skull Valley, produced more than 3,000 pieces. The museum, inspired by Phippen, is now also the home for the Arizona Rancher and Cowboy Hall of Fame. QCBN 

By Ray Newton, QCBN 

Museum hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday-Saturday, and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., on Sunday. For more information, visit phippenartmuseum.org. 

 

Flipping Prescott 

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When “Flip This Town” author and podcaster Ron Drake explored Prescott, he was impressed by the friendliness of the people, the natural beauty of the area and the look and feel of the downtown. “I appreciate a community that’s doing well, but wants to be better,” he said. “I love a community that doesn’t want to get complacent.”

After three days in sessions with more than 100 locals – city leaders, business groups, investors and students – which included a stroll around the downtown and foot tours of historic buildings, he and Prescott residents saw things differently.

“The No. 1 take-away is there’s a lot that can be done pretty soon to bring more life to the downtown,” said Drake. “For example, the climate is amazing. The average temperature is 70 degrees year-round; yet, there wasn’t that much outdoor dining. San Diego probably has about the same outdoor temperature and there’s outdoor dining everywhere. When someone comes into town and sees people all over the sidewalks, when restaurants bring the inside outside to spill onto the streets, it’s much more attractive and friendly.”

The City of Prescott, Prescott Chamber of Commerce, Prescott Downtown Partnership and APS brought in the downtown revitalization expert to facilitate connections, problem-solve challenges and help create a workable plan for the future. Drake’s late-January visit fit with his mission to “Inspire-Equip-Restore the Heart of America, one downtown at a time.”

“Our downtown is a real gem, with tremendous potential,” said Prescott Mayor Greg Mengarelli. “There is a lot of momentum to bring more activity to the downtown area, beautification projects, improvements and diversity. We have to think differently.”

Drake helped the group think differently about old buildings. “So many of us have just focused on what’s on the ground floor of places downtown and we’ve never looked up,” said 22-year-old Arizona State University master’s student and Prescott native Haylie Smith in a recent podcast with Drake. “Now that we’ve seen those spaces, we’ve seen how valuable they are, how they could make incredible edgy downtown lofts. I honestly had never thought about what was above some of those establishments.”

Drake brings a message of “Practical Preservation” to cities like Prescott. “We oftentimes think preserving old buildings automatically means a lot of money. We’ve discovered practical ways to restore buildings. One of the cool side effects of some of our projects is letting the building be the design. For example, leave that plaster wall, leave the old wallpaper half on and half off, keep the original wood floors even if they are really rough, keep the open trusses. Expose it. Don’t feel like you have to hide the electrical, plumbing and duct work.”

He emphasized that people living in the downtown bring life, safety and money into the area. “It quite possibly is the most successful means to giving the heart of your community a healthy life. It creates vibrancy, especially after 5, after dark. There are lights on all over. It feels safer, it is safer, and there’s less trash because the sidewalk is the front porch. When you’ve got a community that is vibrant, you can just feel it.”

“I had no idea there was so much vacant space in these old buildings,” said Ponderosa Hotel Management Services Vice President of Marketing Margo Christensen. “It was eye-opening that we were missing the ‘live’ part of ‘live, work, play’ in the downtown and the focus on locals and the local experience.”

Drake says developers often give up on revitalizing older buildings because of the expense. “They can’t get it to pencil out. I’m getting these projects to pencil out all over the country. Part of the reason, the developers are trying to make them too nice. Instead of keeping original walls, floors and ceilings, they put in new trim and a fancy floor, and now you’re spending a lot money when today’s downtown tenant doesn’t want all that stuff.”

Smith, who commutes from Prescott to Tempe and also works for the City of Prescott, says she and her friends would love to live downtown. Drake asked if she would mind if urban living meant parking her car around the corner or walking up three flights of stairs with groceries.

“I would love it if I got to live downtown,” she said. “I absolutely love everything that you said: exposing the brick, the wood and keeping everything in there and not worrying about making it perfect. People our age, we don’t care if it’s perfect. We just want it to be affordable.”

“A lot of conversations were about the difference between designing for locals, not tourists,” said Drake. “It seems right now we are more geared toward the tourist, but I think today’s tourists are looking more for an authentic experience. They want to go to the local hangout, rather than feeling like a tourist in a community.”

He cited the John Hancock Barbershop as an example of the kind of downtown business that is geared toward locals and offers an experience. “The barber shop guys have nailed it. They’re doing great and actually expanding into a bigger space. By exposing the building, it looks and feels great in there. They’ve combined some modern ideas and the history of the building. It’ a place where the locals go, and a lot of young people.”

Attracting and retaining young people was a point that resonated with Smith. In the podcast conversation with Drake, she said, “Prescott does have quite a few job opportunities, but not a lot of career opportunities. Many people have to leave to start their career and come back later.”

She added that there is a lack of things for college-aged people to do and often wonders, “Where are all the young people hiding?” She called Prescott a college town but said activities for college students are on campus, not in town. “We don’t have activities that would draw young people here.”

Mengarelli said bringing Drake to town was “totally worth doing. It’s one of the best things we’ve done since I’ve been mayor. Ron brought a fresh look and new ideas. We can rally around the downtown and how to improve it.”

“There’s a lot we can do in the short term, without investing a lot of money,” said Christensen, a member of the steering committee tasked with moving concepts from the sessions forward.

In addition to utilizing vacant upper floor space in downtown buildings, ideas include extending parking hours, offering more ethnicity in food options, keeping establishments open longer and considering more places for locals to shop.

Smith, dubbed “Haylie the Hero” in Drake’s podcast, shared her vision. “I want downtown Prescott to embody the ‘live, work, play’ model. I want it to be a place where I can live in an affordable, edgy downtown loft and a place where I can walk or bike to work and then a place where I can play, which really means just having restaurants that offer experiences such as different activities, games, anything this is engaging the community. I want it to be more than a place where people come together, [it’s] where the community comes to connect.”

Drake added, “The answers lie in your community. I just want to help you find them.” QCBN

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN 

Courtesy photo 

 

 

Teddy Roosevelt Comes to Life for Grand Canyon Celebrations

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Bill and Susan Ahearn first visited the Grand Canyon as a couple in 1971. Nearly five decades later, they continue to explore the place that they say never disappoints.

“We visit several times a year,” said Bill. “It is so big compared to us and physically challenging. It puts you in your place physically and mentally; yet, it can be so intimate with its side canyons, hanging gardens, waterfalls and big horn sheep.”

Active as volunteers, hikers, researchers, financial supporters and protectors of public lands and dark skies, the Ahearns are participating in celebrations marking the 100th anniversary of the Grand Canyon’s induction into the National Park system.

As part of the effort, the couple is bringing President Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt to Arizonans so they can get to know the man who is credited with protecting the canyon for generations to enjoy.

“He was the right man at the right time,” said Susan.

Actor Derek Evans agrees. In his one-man performances, Evans embodies the spirit, zeal and energy of the man he describes as belligerent, limitless, entertaining and beyond genius. “This is a guy who did in real life what John Wayne did in the movies.”

For 15 years, Evans has embraced Roosevelt’s larger-than-life personality, sharing the historic character with people of all ages. He portrays the former president in his retirement, reflecting on the full and varied life that included being an avid outdoorsman, a prolific writer and a recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize. Roosevelt had also served as Undersecretary of the Navy and a Rough Rider – a mounted soldier in the Spanish American War – who played a significant role in driving the Spanish out of Cuba.

“School children are enamored by his outrageous behavior, chasing bad guys across South Dakota’s Badlands, playing with kids and injuring himself as a boxer, too,” said Evans. “Audiences appreciate how much fun this guy was and how in debt we are to him for establishing the American agenda. Today, we’re still talking about the proper role of government in American life. And, he was among those who introduced conservation into the American consciousness. He was a terribly important world figure, up there with Lincoln, Gandhi and Churchill.”

Evans says Roosevelt was really good at getting people’s attention. “He was the first president who had a press office in the White House. Reporters loved writing about him because he was such an interesting character. Teddy Roosevelt let them in the briefing room every day, but if a reporter wrote something he didn’t like, he’d put him in the ‘Ananias Club’ [named after a Biblical character who was said to be a liar] and they would get no more stories.”

As a writer himself, Roosevelt produced more than 30 books. “He had a beautiful way of writing about things, especially nature. He described the Little Missouri River as ‘molten lead pouring out of a foundry.’”

Evans describes Roosevelt as a voracious reader, too, curious about everything. “Roosevelt was interesting because he was interested. He understood seven languages. At age 55, he decided to learn Portuguese. He would have a book in his lap while dictating government papers.  He could be discussing philology [the study of the structure of languages] with Harvard scientists or talking with little kids about their bug collections.”

In world affairs, Evans calls Roosevelt a man of strength and restraint. “The more power he had, the more cautious he was about its use. He was a wonderful negotiator and always careful to leave a way out for the other guy to save face.”

In 1903, Roosevelt made his first trip to Arizona. “At the time, public lands were being claimed for mining, grazing and tourism,” said Bill Ahearn. “The only thing that saved the Grand Canyon from development was the distance. It was hard to get to.”

Even so, Ahearn explains that a “prospector,”  who had staked a mining claim at the top of the Bright Angel Trail, was charging $1 per person for hikers to use it. “That was 100 years ago! Imagine what it would be today!”

Roosevelt spent only one day at the Grand Canyon, but while there, he delivered a powerful speech, captured by the Coconino Sun and often quoted by historians. Regarding the Canyon, he said, “Leave it as it is. Man cannot improve on it; not a bit. The ages have been at work on it and man can only mar it. What you can do is to keep it for your children and your children’s children and for all who come after you, as one of the great sights which every American, if he can travel at all, should see.”

In 1908, Roosevelt established the Grand Canyon as a National Monument through the Antiquities Act, which allows a president to set aside public lands. It later went into the National Park system, and on February 26, 1919, Congress created the Grand Canyon National Park.

The Ahearns say the centennial celebrations are an opportunity for Arizonans and all Americans to appreciate what Roosevelt did and what the country has as a result of his actions.

“The Grand Canyon is a treasure, a natural wonder that feeds your soul,” said Susan. “There are so many layers to explore with Native American history, pioneer history and science. Botanists are still finding new species in the Canyon. And, it’s so important to have some kind of connection with the natural world. This one is so immense and diverse, it hits you in the face.”

Evans will be performing his two-hour solo theater show, “Teddy Roosevelt the Man in the Arena,” at the Grand Canyon, Flagstaff, Prescott, Phoenix and Tucson. The Flagstaff performance is scheduled for 6:30 p.m., Sunday, February 24, at the Coconino Center for the Arts. Tickets are $15 per person. For tickets or more information, visit flagartscouncil.org. FBN

By Bonnie Stevens, FBN

Stewards of the Trails Keeping Grand Canyon Accessible

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On the “bucket list” for people all over the world is to hike the Grand Canyon, most notably, the Bright Angel and Kaibab Trails. Of the six million-plus annual Grand Canyon visitors, it is estimated that less than 7 percent actually hike down into the canyon (only 1 percent to the bottom). Even so, that adds up to 434,000 hikers a year on the corridor trails.

Maintaining these popular trails for safe passage are many people who work in both high heat and low temperatures to ensure hikers and mule riders a safe journey.

The key player is the National Park Service (NPS), which, when fully staffed, employs up to 75 people and maintains about 126 miles of trails (there are approximately 358 established trails). “This includes up to 40 NPS staff and the conservation corps volunteers,” said NPS Trails Program Manager Christopher Brothers. “Right now, we are understaffed, which is a big challenge.

“Trail work is very physically demanding. In order to succeed, workers have to be physically and mentally conditioned to work in a harsh environment. Those of us who have worked on trail crews for many years have endured harsh weather, dangerous working conditions, injury and days away from family,” said Brothers, a volunteer who has worked on the Grand Canyon trail crew for more than 23 years.

Perhaps the most visible members are those in the conservations corps, which employs youth for projects on public lands. Two of these agencies are located in Flagstaff: the American Conservation Experience (ACE) and the Arizona Conservation Corps (AZCC).

ACE was founded in Flagstaff in 2004. The program is for young adults between the ages of 18-25 who are considering land management as a career path or potential course of study. Corps members serve in professionally supervised teams as they explore future outdoor careers, learn practical field skills and develop confidence as emerging leaders in the field of conservation. Corps members are supported during their three- to 12-month service terms with cost of living stipends, food on projects and free common housing on off days.

“One of ACE’s greatest achievements is breaking down prejudices and stereotypes through work relationships, finding a common cause of improving our national and state public lands such as the Grand Canyon trails,” said Brad Bippus, a member of the ACE Board of Directors since 2004 and owner of AZ Irrigation and Maintenance. “It’s an amazing model of cooperation and teamwork with individuals that would otherwise never have met. “

James Allen, professor and executive director of the School of Forestry at Northern Arizona University (NAU), also serves on the ACE Board of Directors and contends that ACE does “exceptionally good quality trail work. In addition to all the work they’ve done at the Grand Canyon, other claims to fame include Walnut Canyon National Monument trail following a rock fall, and building the trail to the Granite Mountain Hotshot Memorial. One of ACE’s major points of pride is the quality of the work they do and how they instill that culture of quality in their corps members, which is something I hope they carry with them the rest of their lives.”

The Arizona Conservation Corps (AZCC) focuses on connecting youth, young adults and recent-era military veterans with conservation service work projects on public lands. With operations throughout Arizona, the focus is on engaging individuals and strengthening communities through service and conservation. “Our work is very similar to ACE — except we have different approaches, with the same outcome,” explained AZCC Field Supervisor Michael Welleford.

“I worked at the Grand Canyon for two years and every day we got to work in a place that people spend their lives thinking about visiting,” said Welleford. “It’s the hardest work you’ll ever do in your life with the greatest outcome, plus I met the greatest people of my life there.” Welleford has worked in low-visibility, freezing, snowy trail conditions, to be rewarded by an “incredible view” when the weather clears.

Currently, Anna Schroeder is working on the South Kaibab trail, about two miles from the rim. “We’re doing cyclical maintenance, which involves de-rocking the trail, digging out drains, and putting dirt back on the trail.”

Schroeder says she enjoys working at the Grand Canyon because of the beauty and people. She has worked for ACE for years.

“Collectively, there are about 130 programs across the United States doing this work,” said Laura Herrin, ACE president and CEO. “Our programs are built from the original Civilian Conservation Corps. ACE has been working to restore and conserve the trails at the Grand Canyon for more than 15 years. It was our first site and we have been there ever since.”

Keeping the trails clear for the Xanterra Mule rides is one of the main objectives, says Xanterra South Rim Mule Operation Livery Manager John Berry. “When it snows, we clear the trail and work closely with the NPS for rock removal and other trail maintenance. Last year, we had an all-women trail crew. They were incredible and replaced dirt on South Kaibab Trail. They must have hauled at least 50 mule loads of dirt a day. It was pretty amazing. “

President Franklin D. Roosevelt established the CCC in 1933. This was a work relief program that gave millions of young men employment on environmental projects during the Great Depression. The program became a model for future conservation programs engaging young adults in community service and conservation activities. Ironically, CCC built the Colorado River Trail (the most difficult Grand Canyon trail ever constructed), along with trails and walls around and in the Grand Canyon Village. The organization also did extensive work at Phantom Ranch. QCBN

By V. Ronnie Tierney, QCBN

Mayor Promotes Free Enterprise, Strategic Partnerships, Planning for the Future

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City of Prescott Mayor Greg Mengarelli infused his Jan. 17 State of the City address to the Prescott Chamber of Commerce with a call to action from Ancient Greece: “Society grows great when old men plant trees whose shade they know they shall never sit in.” 

Having become a grandfather last fall and pondering that marvel, Mengarelli asserted that “the best legacy is to sacrifice today to ensure the prosperity of tomorrow. So, that is the question I ask each one of you: What legacy will you leave behind; what trees are you planting today? What sacrifices are you making today that will benefit those who come behind you?”

His challenge augmented last year’s achievements by the city, Chamber and allied organizations. Serving Prescott since 1938, the Chamber currently boasts 108 years of combined staff experience and more than 10,000 volunteers, saving upwards of $100,000 annually. Many volunteers staff the Visitor Information Center, which last year managed 1,595 conference packets; 26,467 walk-ins; 16,677 phone calls; 1,090 walking tours; and 619 relocation and visitor packets.

“You are the hardest working people I know,” Mengarelli said. “You are the reason I have hope in our local economy and I am grateful for all you do for our community and local charities.”

The mayor reinforced three strategies he identified in 2018 to maintain the Prescott that citizens know and love: 1) A government mindset that promotes free enterprise; 2) Controlling the future through strategic partnerships; and 3) Thinking about the next generation.

Among related success stories for 2018, Mengarelli cited the Public Safety Personnel Retirement System (PSPRS) sales tax-funded debt pay down from $86 million to $69 million;  new regional jet service by United Express/SkyWest Airlines surpassing a milestone 10,000 enplanements and thus qualifying for additional critical federal funding; downtown redevelopment of the city-owned Granite Creek Corridor at Montezuma and Sheldon streets earmarked for a Hilton Garden Inn; open space preservation featuring the Granite Dells; and water conservation and management, including a current audit of the city’s water portfolio. 

“Prop 443 passed because community leaders ran an effective information campaign and the business community provided financial support for that campaign,” he said of the voter-led initiative to reduce the PSPRS debt. “This was a courageous and bold move by our community to address this problem up front and not kick the debt down the road to burden future generations. Our generation created that debt and we have taken on the responsibility of paying that debt off.”

For decades, Prescott “has struggled with establishing reliable, affordable and modern air service at the airport,” Mengarelli said. “How did all this progress happen so quickly, when we had failed so many times before? It was because of great staff leadership, strategic partnerships with you in the business community, regional partnerships with local municipalities and the county, and, finally, with Embry-Riddle [Aeronautical] University. Our team at City Hall had a plan, but it required our partners in the community and region to be successful.”

SkyWest Airlines reported that the startup service in Prescott broke records as the most successful launch in the company’s history. Ongoing planning is underway to add more flights and destinations to current air service and a new terminal is anticipated to open in summer 2020. 

The revitalization of the Granite Creek Corridor represents one of the largest private investments in downtown Prescott in the past 20 years, he noted, adding that “the new Hilton Garden Inn will be the anchor for a wonderful park setting along Granite Creek, the use of the Sam Hill Warehouse for conferences and the historic train trestle, [which] will be the centerpiece of it all. This project is an example of innovative cooperation between city government and the private sector, and generations to come will benefit from its amenities.”

Regarding land preservation, Mengarelli explained that “our breathtaking landscapes are one of the hallmarks of the Prescott lifestyle, particularly the Point of Rocks and other prominent rock features in the Granite Dells.

One year ago, he stated, the city bought 160 acres of the Granite Dells, bringing its total Dells ownership to 578 acres, excluding Watson and Willow Lakes.

“As controversial as [the Arizona Eco Development (AED) project] seems to many in our community, we cannot lose sight of the fact that this is a once-in-a-life-time opportunity for the city to acquire this privately-owned property,” he said. “It is our job to find a workable development agreement that maximizes preservation of this open space, while still providing the developer with the proper incentive to proceed with the annexation. If a suitable agreement can be reached with AED, this acquisition will be a landmark deal and become a tremendous legacy gift for future generations to enjoy.” 

As for water, Prescott’s supply comes from the Little Chino Aquifer and not the Central Arizona Project, so the associated state drought contingency plan will not apply locally. Water usage since 2014 has declined about two percent a year, he noted. Still, he suggested, much more needs to be achieved through conservation.

“When we put others ahead of ourselves, we will accomplish great things,” Mengarelli concluded. “I ask and challenge each of you to help make Prescott a better place today and, more importantly, a better place for my grandson and your grandchildren.” QCBN

By Sue Marceau, QCBN

Casual Contact May Play Key Role in Spread of Disease

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To protect ourselves from infectious disease, we often strive to avoid close contact with those who are sick. But new, surprising findings from bat research reveal that pathogens can move from individual to individual much more easily and frequently than we may have thought.

A team of biologists from several institutions throughout the United States, including Northern Arizona University researchers Jeffrey Foster and Katy Parise, looked at how disease spreads in bats, particularly the deadly white-nose syndrome that has been decimating bat populations in North America since 2006.

“When we think about who we might get sick from, we tend to think of our social groups: family, friends and co-workers. But, we forget about the contact that happens when picking up something at the post office, having a brief interaction with a barista at a coffee shop, or sharing airspace on public transportation,” said Virginia Tech Research Scientist Joe Hoyt, who led the study. “People are aware of these interactions, but not how important they are to the spread of epidemics. In the past, these types of hidden interactions have been poorly understood, partly because they are so difficult to quantify.”

He calls these casual, potentially infectious contacts “cryptic connections,” or pathways between individuals that could lead to infection.

But the explosive epidemic of the white-nose syndrome in bats has shocked and mystified biologists who have observed how entire populations could be infected within a month or two. Because bats eat massive amounts of insects that kill trees and crops, this fungal disease that is wiping out huge populations of bats could result in damage to millions of acres of forests and agricultural lands.

The team set out to understand how white-nose syndrome was spreading so quickly, especially among hibernating colonies.

Using seven different colors of fluorescent powder to simulate spores of the fungus, researchers dusted individual bats of various species – some more social than others – in mines in the Upper Midwest. They gently coated the bats and worked the dust into their fur, wings and tails. With an ultraviolet light, they could see the powder glow wherever the bats touched, be it the cave wall or another bat, and what other bats picked it up. They were able to then create a network of how the dust was spread.

“It’s hard to figure out how disease transmission is happening. If someone touches his nose and then a doorknob, it’s difficult to track all the people who touched it. You can’t visualize a pathogen in the environment,” said Foster. “With the powder, we can track how the fungus is likely spreading. We can see all the places bats have contacted.”

Their findings were astonishing. Just one bat could be responsible for transferring dust to 75 percent of the population. “There is huge potential for rapid spread,” said Hoyt. “That’s what we’re seeing with this disease once it gets into these populations. In sites where there are more than 25,000 bats, nearly 100 percent are infected over a couple of months. For any disease, that’s unprecedented.

They also learned that bats move around a lot during hibernation, a time when their metabolism slows and their immune system is ratcheted down.

“If you go into a cave in the winter, you’ll see the bats stationary on the top of the cave, hanging there. You don’t think that they move,” said Foster. “But from the fluorescent dust on their faces or the tips of their wings, it was apparent they are having lots of connections.”

White-nose syndrome showed up in the area after the fluorescent dust studies were conducted. The researchers, including Foster and Parise who work in NAU’s Pathogen and Microbiome Institute, found that the actual fungus spread similarly to how the powder was dispersed.

Foster explains that, unlike bacteria, a fungus can live in the environment for a long time. The fungus that causes white-nose syndrome can exist on the walls of caves for years. “It’s important to know where the fungus is likely going and tracking it, which has been tough in the past.”

Hoyt says the bat research has broader implications when considering disease outbreaks in humans and livestock. “We want to know how might a pathogen get into that population so we can be prepared, as well as understand how pathogens are transmitted for future control strategies.”

Any pathogen that shows up in the environment, even for a short period of time, has the potential to spread through cryptic connections, says Hoyt. “If you consider the 2014 Ebola virus outbreak, we still don’t know for certain what the connection was that led to pathogen spill over from the wildlife reservoir to the first human case.”

Ebola is a deadly disease that affects monkeys, gorillas and occasionally humans. Hoyt cites other viruses of concern, such as the Hendra virus, a disease in horses that spread to individuals in Australia, and the Nipah virus, which showed up in pig farmers in Malaysia.

Fortunately, Foster says the bats appear to be finding a way to survive white-nose syndrome before scientists have found a solution: some bat populations are beginning to stabilize. However, he says, the National Science Foundation-funded study provides important insight into conservation strategies for affected populations. QCBN

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

Electric Aircraft Manufacturer Months Away from First Plane 

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At some point this late summer or early fall, observers at and around Prescott Municipal Airport are likely to see a history-making flight. 

Eviation Alice is scheduled to take off and soar above runways located at 5,045 feet above sea level. 

The plane is a totally electric propelled aircraft that will have been assembled in Prescott, the U.S. headquarters and subsidiary for the Israeli-based global aircraft manufacturer, Eviation Aircraft Limited.  

Leland Moreno-Hilburn, executive director and general manager for Eviation Aircraft Inc., Prescott, said the current plan is that immediately after the prototype aircraft is introduced at the Paris (France) Air Show this June, it and the sub-assemblies of two other aircraft will be shipped to Prescott. Once here, local engineers and aircraft specialists will assemble them for local flight testing. He estimates that as many as 20 highly skilled employees will be involved in the assembly/integration and flight test operations.  

In the meantime, Moreno-Hilburn is aggressively pursuing relationships and partnerships with local, national and international organizations to complete the planning and infrastructure necessary to manufacture aircraft in Prescott. 

Currently operating out of a 1,600-square-foot office adjacent to the airport on MacCurdy Drive, Moreno-Hilburn spends his days in electronic and telephonic contact with experts around the world to make sure all components are in place to assemble the flight test aircraft and eventually build the Eviation Alice once facilities are constructed. He and Eviation officials are currently evaluating sites at the airport where aircraft manufacturing could occur. 

Omer Bar-Yohay, CEO and co-founder of Eviation Aircraft, whose office is in Kadima (near Tel Aviv) is a frequent visitor to the U.S. and Prescott. With a doctoral degree in physics and years of experience creating and advancing aviation technological advances, he helped pioneer the industry’s first all-electric regional transport aircraft, named “Alice.”  

As presently designed, the nine-passenger, fully battery-powered plane will have a 650-mile, plus reserve range from a single charge, which will propel the three electric motors. The central thrust motor is at the rear of the plane. Smaller motors are on the 60-foot wingtips to provide stability. Power for the motors will come from lithium ion batteries in the fuselage. Those batteries amount to about 65 percent of Alice’s weight.  

Many structural components of Alice will be created through the use of sophisticated 3-D printers, which will use precisely engineered materials. Other plane components will be supplied by vendors, some of which may choose to locate in Prescott, Moreno-Hilburn said. 

Ultimately, two models of Alice likely will be manufactured. “The first model will be an unpressurized, nine-passenger plane designed to fly up to a 10,000-foot altitude at a cruise speed of 260 knots (299 miles mph),” he said. “The second model will be pressurized and carry six passengers at altitudes up to 30,000 feet. These aircraft will be perfect for commercial regional transportation. They will change the way people move regionally. 

Moreno-Hilburn cited four features that make the all-electric plane unique: 

  • Low operating and maintenance cost – significantly less than piston-driven (propeller) or turbine-driven (jet) aircraft. 
  • State-of-art-technology – innovative airframe design, battery technology and the integration of advanced lightweight materials, thermal management and vehicle autonomy. 
  • Sustainable, low noise and zero emission motors.  
  • Fast and comfortable – composite structure built for electric integration, extreme propulsion and aerodynamic efficiency and flight stability. 

“Alice will be the perfect aircraft for commercial airline and on-demand charter operators for short-hop flights,” Hilburn-Moreno said. “For example, it will be an easy flight from here to Albuquerque and return. Or Las Vegas. Or Tucson. The same is true from those cities to other cities in their vicinity, or especially cities on the East and West Coast, where commuter airlines thrive.”   

Emphasizing that Eviation Aircraft is a manufacturer, not an airline, Hilburn-Moreno said the market for the airplane is likely worldwide. “We’ve already had inquiries throughout several countries about when the planes will be ready for sale.”   

Depending on the final equipment and amenities, the planes are said to be less than half the cost of a comparable-size conventionally powered aircraft.   

An experienced aviation and aerospace engineer, Moreno-Hilburn also has an extensive background as a certified business analyst and project manager. The Seattle native was on the cutting edge in pioneering military and commercial aircraft design, manufacturing and administration of sales and services during his 30-year executive career with The Boeing Company. 

While working on Boeing company projects in Mesa, he had planned to retire in Arizona. 

“I was weary of the damp, grey Seattle climate,” he explained. “It didn’t take me long to figure out that Mesa was not the place to be in mid-summer.”  

He eventually retired to Prescott Valley, where he lives with his wife, Rosa. “No regrets, for sure,” he said.  

Moreno-Hilburn especially appreciates the friendly business-positive environment of Prescott and the surrounding area. “The mayor, Prescott City Council and city staff have been enthusiastically supportive, so have Chancellor Frank Ayers and the faculty and staff at Embry-Riddle. In fact, we’re blessed to have four solid higher education programs in the Quad Cities area – ERAU, Northern Arizona University, Prescott College and Yavapai College – that can provide us with bright young people who want to remain in the area to work. We’ll no longer export our local intellectual capital.”  

He also says the recently designated Prescott Regional Airport is “…the perfect location for Eviation to manufacture and deliver its planes.    

City of Prescott Economic Development Consultant Jim Robb agrees wholeheartedly.   

“Having Eviation select Prescott as its U.S. headquarters is an amazing coup for the community,” Robb said. “They could have gone anywhere, and they selected Prescott. I believe Eviation is a game-changer for regional air transportation. It will bring supply chain and other companies with leading edge technologies and create opportunities for research, innovation and incubation. Our entire area can be excited about this economic opportunity.” QCBN  

Eviation Chooses Prescott for Workforce, Room to Grow 

Eviation Executive Director and General Manager Leland Moreno-Hilburn says there are four major reasons the company picked Prescott as its U.S. headquarters: 

  • The airfield, located about a mile above sea level, is the perfect altitude to test aircraft and their high-altitude air density controllability. 
  • The area surrounding the airport is open airspace, providing excellent visibility for flight test operations. 
  • The 760 acres owned by the City of Prescott on which the airport is located provides ample land space to build aircraft manufacturing facilities and ancillary support companies. 
  • Through an agreement with Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, ERAU students will work with Eviation, focusing on performance analysis, validation and testing for current and future zero-emission all electric propulsion and airframe design concepts.  

`The airport was first used on July 4, 1926, and became a dedicated airport in August 1928, when it was named Ernest A. Love Field in honor of a Prescott pilot who died while flying in World War I. QCBN 

By Ray Newton, QCBN 

Photo caption:

Eviation Aircraft Inc.-Prescott Executive Director and General Manager Leland Moreno-Hilburn is an experienced aviation engineer and business analyst with 30 years’ experience with the Boeing Company. He is coordinating the Prescott start-up effort of Eviation Aircraft in the manufacturing of the industry’s first all-electric propelled regional transport aircraft.   (Photo by Ray Newton)