Learning that Jim and Linda Lee had been named the 2019 Philanthropists of the Year by the Arizona Community Foundation of Yavapai County was not a big surprise to those who have lived in the Quad Cities area for any length of time. For decades, the Lees have been major contributors to a diverse … [Read more...] about A Legacy of Giving Back
Spotlight
Flying High
Leonardo Da Vinci was quoted as saying, “Once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the Earth with your eyes turned skywards.” Holding one of the highest pilot certifications, Craig Sanderson spread his wings upward to serve as director of operations for Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines and … [Read more...] about Flying High
Grand Canyon Railway General Manager: A Man in Motion
A sign posted on the wall of the Grand Canyon Railway locomotive shop states, “Expect movement on any tracks from any direction…at any time.” Though a good reminder for engineers and mechanics working on the trains, the advice spells out sage wisdom for Bob Baker’s position as general manager of … [Read more...] about Grand Canyon Railway General Manager: A Man in Motion
Locally Sourced; Regionally Recognized
When all the other boys and girls wanted to grow up to be firefighters and police officers, John Panza wanted to be a chef. “I always kind of gravitated to the kitchen as a kid. If there was a family gathering or party, I was in the kitchen helping out mom or dad, whoever was cooking.” Panza’s … [Read more...] about Locally Sourced; Regionally Recognized
Hospitality from Kabul to the Grand Canyon
Traveling almost 8,000 miles to fill his new position as food and beverage director for Xanterra at the Grand Canyon South Rim Lodges was an “easy” decision, says Todd Rodemyer, who left Kabul, Afghanistan, for the Grand Canyon. “It was the best move I’ve made yet and I really like it … [Read more...] about Hospitality from Kabul to the Grand Canyon
Melissa Cripps Composing a Life of Business, Service, Music
Managing a rewarding career is as much how a person approaches living as what transpires during business hours. That reality was poignantly reinforced in 2018 for Flagstaff’s Melissa Collins Cripps, agent/owner of Melissa Cripps Insurance Agency, Inc. “My life changed last year when both my … [Read more...] about Melissa Cripps Composing a Life of Business, Service, Music
El Gato Azul Owner Committed to Community Service, Philanthropy
If you ask Barry Barbe, popular Prescott philanthropist and restaurant owner, he will tell you the best way to raise money for a charitable cause is to go dancing. That is what Barbe is planning to do on April 13, when local celebrities team up with professional dance instructors for a night of … [Read more...] about El Gato Azul Owner Committed to Community Service, Philanthropy
Experienced Aviation Professional Lands Sedona Airport’s General Manager Position
‘U.S.S. Sedona’ welcomes a new commanding officer aboard The best journeys do not necessarily have a flight plan. From growing up near an airfield to becoming a licensed commercial pilot to spearheading a fledgling air-traffic control school, Deborah Abingdon has vectored her distinct aviation … [Read more...] about Experienced Aviation Professional Lands Sedona Airport’s General Manager Position
Karen Fann is Poised to Lead the State Senate
For more than 25 years, Yavapai County resident Karen Fann has been in the public eye. That visibility will continue. Fann was elected to another term as a state senator for District 1, which covers more than 8,000 square miles of Yavapai County and portions of Maricopa County. She beat out … [Read more...] about Karen Fann is Poised to Lead the State Senate
Healer Practicing Eastern Medicine to Treat Pain, Chronic Illnesses
The pain got so severe in his lower back and leg that Les Fullerton was considering back surgery. A friend suggested he first see Jean Painter of Harmony Integrative Medicine in Prescott. Fullerton is glad he did. After about 12 visits for acupuncture with Painter, he is 100 percent free of back … [Read more...] about Healer Practicing Eastern Medicine to Treat Pain, Chronic Illnesses