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Public Enemy No. 1: COVID-19 Creeps into Yavapai County

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Restaurants, bars, gyms and movie theaters are closed, car dealers are offering to bring vehicles to customers’ doors for a test drive, insurance agents are requesting payments to be slid under their doors and the public trail system is more popular than the downtown square. This, while Governor Doug Ducey is preparing Arizonans for a possible stay-at-home order and identifying essential jobs in industries such as health care, construction, food service, airports, pawn shops, gun supplies and golf courses. Also, the National Guard may start shipping groceries to stores.
The new normal of social distancing has businesspeople turning their homes into office spaces for themselves and classrooms for their children. Meetings are canceled, projects are shelved, events are postponed and the whole world seems to have slowed way down, except for those in the healthcare industry and the hard-working athletes driving Amazon trucks.

With four known cases of COVID-19 in the county, Yavapai County Public Health Coordinator Terri Farneti says the pandemic is expected to get worse in Arizona before it gets better. “This is totally different from the flu,” she said. “It’s a lot worse and it seems to be having community spread, passing from person to person.”

But, there is light at the end of the tunnel, says TGen North Director and Associate Professor Dave Engelthaler, Ph.D. “There are relatively few cases daily in China now – it’s definitely on the downswing. We’re not there yet in the U.S.; we’re just getting started. We’re going into a dark tunnel, but the decrease will happen here, too.”

The scientists of TGen North in Flagstaff are genomics first responders. Some of the same researchers who have studied and traced such dangerous pathogens as Ebola and the West Nile virus, are now testing samples for evidence of COVID-19 and working to track this strain of coronavirus. SARS and MERS are also coronaviruses. TGen identified the first COVID-19 case in Flagstaff last month.

“It likely has its origins in bats and has become adapted to humans. It’s possible it came out of markets in China, where they sell live animals,” said Engelthaler. “It acts like the common cold or flu, an upper and lower respiratory disease that’s easily spread through a cough or sneeze. It’s more stable on plastics and stainless steel than on copper and cardboard, and it can last [on surfaces] for hours.”

He also adds that most people in China who contracted the virus – 81% diagnosed – had mild symptoms. “Some people are at higher risk of complications, those over 65 with underlying medical conditions like diabetes, heart and lung disease. Eighty percent of deaths in the U.S. are people over 80 years old. This is where we are going to be most devastated.”

In Yavapai County, at least three of the cases occurred  in people identified as senior citizens. Two are in Sedona and one is in Prescott, according to Farneti. “They are all travel related, but the individuals weren’t in contact with each other. One was from Idaho, one from Nevada and one from Ireland.”

She says medical staff are receiving the supplies they need – the gloves, the masks, the gowns – the bigger problem, she says, is the shortage of tests. She advises those with symptoms, coughing, sneezing, fever, shortness of breath, to call their healthcare provider and not show up at an emergency room or urgent care facility. “Your doctor will be able to advise you.”

While researchers work to try to better understand and combat the virus, perhaps the greatest concern is not to overwhelm the medical system. “This is definitely causing a strain on the hospitals. As they are trying to adjust, we shouldn’t have anybody there who doesn’t absolutely need to be there.”

Northern Arizona Orthopaedics, for example, is open during the week and on Saturdays to treat injuries. “Our Saturday clinic can serve to lessen the burden that is likely to be placed on emergency rooms and urgent cares during this crisis,” says Director of Marketing and Physician Relations Carrie Butler. “Our goal, above all else, is to uphold social responsibility. We can treat patients with orthopedic injuries outside the hospital settings so that these hospitals can focus their time and resources on treating those with COVID-19 related symptoms.”

Meanwhile, Engelthaler says we all have a role to play as COVID-19 tightens its grip on the nation. He suggests following public health guidelines, obeying quarantine and social distancing recommendations, and having a business and family plan with two to four weeks of supplies.

“It’s important to help the less fortunate and disadvantaged. These are the individuals who are going to be hurting without our help,” he said. “We can deal with this. We’ll get through it. Most of us will get exposed, but not get really sick. Most of those who are seriously ill will survive.” QCBN

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

As of the April QCBN printing deadline, there are 236 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Arizona with five virus-related deaths. For more information about COVID-19, the Yavapai County emergency phone bank is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, at 928-442-5103. More information also can be found at yavapai.us/chs and at 211arizona.org/covid-19.

Snowbowl Preparing for Arizona’s First Combination Lift

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After a 12-month environmental assessment process, Coconino National Forest approved the replacement of Arizona Snowbowl’s Agassiz Chairlift. Approval couldn’t come at a better time. Amid challenges with the Agassiz Lift this season, Arizona Snowbowl announced the authorization and that they would begin construction on the new lift system. The new lift combines detachable chairs interspersed with gondolas. Similar state-of-the-art lift systems are in place in Austria, Italy and Sweden.

“Skiers will have the option of riding a six-person chair or an eight-passenger cabin,” explained J.R. Murray of Mountain Capital Partners, Snowbowl’s management company. “The winter uphill capacity [people per hour] will remain the same as the existing chairlift; however, the ride will be faster and more enjoyable.” The new Agassiz Express lift will transport guests 2,000 feet up the western slope of the San Francisco Peaks to 11,500 feet in just 7 minutes, nearly half the time as the current three-person chair.

“Right before we signed the decision on this, the Agassiz Chairlift went down. So this is good that we are replacing a longstanding infrastructure for the ski area,” said Mike Dechter, Coconino National Forest National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) coordinator. “We felt, and Snowbowl felt, that it was about time that it was replaced.”

The Agassiz Lift was closed in mid-January because of mechanical failure inside the large bull wheel at the bottom drive terminal. “We tested bearings and gears and found small cracks in one large gear,” said Murray. “It took time to find a machine shop in the U.S. that could make the gear to exact specifications.”

Prior to its Jan. 18 closure, the Agassiz Lift installed in 1986, was intermittently shut throughout the season during high winds. Wind shutdowns may be lessened with the new combination lift as the manufacturers state on their website, “The exterior design of the gondola has been tested in a wind tunnel and creates an extremely low wind resistance, allowing for a safe and comfortable ride even at higher wind speeds.”

The new combination lift is manufactured by Leitner-Poma of America, Inc. in Grand Junction, Colorado. The company, which also built Snowbowl’s Grand Canyon Express lift, is a North American subsidiary of Poma S.A., a corporation headquartered in Voreppe, France and a sister company of Leitner AG, headquartered in Sterzing, Italy. Since 1989, Leitner-Poma of America has designed and manufactured all Leitner-Poma detachables in Grand Junction.

“In addition, it’s being replaced with current technologies that allow for better visitor experience, such as pulldown covers. You won’t have to worry about hail hitting you or heavy rains in the summer. The combination lift meets all ADA requirements. So it will make the lift more accessible,” Dechter revealed.

During the assessment period, Coconino National Forest received feedback from local Native American tribes. “Where we could, we did accommodate tribal concerns and comments,” Dechter said. Enhanced fencing to further limit access above the chairlift was part of the modifications adapted from tribal feedback.

Plans for a “farewell tour” for the iconic Agassiz Lift were developing as Rob Linde, general manager, announced the suspension of winter operations because of the coronavirus, on March 17, until further notice. “Although we’re located outside city limits and not required to follow the jurisdiction of the City of Flagstaff, we’ve voluntarily made the decision to suspend operations when the lifts close today,” he said in a press release. He explained that Arizona Snowbowl was following the guidance of Flagstaff Mayor Coral Evans and the mandate that went into effect at 8 p.m. that evening.

Murray said details for the send-off party including live music and chairlift auction would be announced by Arizona Snowbowl, one of the oldest continually operating ski areas in the country. Once Snowbowl replaces the Agassiz Lift, the original lift will be installed at another location.

“We are also working with the Coconino National Forest on a new Master Development Plan (MDP) that adds facilities to accommodate our existing skier capacity,” said Murray, chief planning officer at Mountain Capital Partners.  “The MDP includes year- round and more summer activities like mountain biking, alpine slide and ziplines.”

According to Murray, additional recreation opportunities would complement Snowbowl’s existing summer activities, respond to increasing demand for alpine recreation and diversifies year-round business opportunities. Snowbowl’s MDP will go through another NEPA process, which is expected to take more than a year.

According to LiftBlog.com, Arizona Snowbowl’s new Agassiz Express is one of 32 new lifts to be built in North America in 2020. Leitner-Poma and sister company Leitner will build 13 of those including the one at Arizona Snowbowl. The target for completion for installation of the new combination lift is fall 2020 for the 2020-21 ski season. QCBN

By Stacey Wittig, QCBN

 

Medical Entrepreneur Opens Aesthetics and Wellness Business

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Entrepreneur Phil Schafer, an experienced Prescott acute care and family nurse practitioner, recently opened his own business called Tri-City Aesthetics and Wellness, located at 212 S. Montezuma St, Suite 1.

The medically trained, certified owner said, “Demand is beyond expectations for Botox and dermal fillers.” He adds his firm will specialize in helping people feel better about themselves.  Schafer said, “We do this by providing top-notch, client-focused aesthetic services in a comfortable, professional atmosphere. We provide neuromodulators to include Botox and Dysport. We also provide dermal fillers for treating lips, cheeks, tear troughs, nasolabial folds and marionette lines.”

Also available to clients are fluid hydration options and medically monitored weight-loss programs.

Schafer, MSN, AGACNP-BC, FNP-C, CFRN, has been in the medical profession for the past 10 years. He earned certification at the National Laser Institute in Scottsdale as a Nurse Practitioner Aesthetic Injector. Schafer earlier had earned a bachelor of nursing degree from Northern Arizona University. He later earned a master’s degree as a nurse practitioner from the University of South Alabama.

Prior to establishing himself in Prescott, he had several years of experience as a flight nurse in the Valley of the Sun. He then gained experience as a hospitalist NP at Yavapai Regional Medical Center.

He and his wife, Christie, have three children, one son and two daughters.

Explaining why he was opening the business, Schafer said, “To provide professional aesthetic services to clients who want to feel better and have more confidence in themselves. I want to make a tangible difference in people’s lives and help them feel better and more confident. I love walking first-time clients through the processes and procedures to help them meet their needs in a safe, relaxed and confidential environment.”

Schafer will see clients by appointment only. “I will only initiate procedures after a thorough and detailed consultation with a client.”

A woman named Leah M., said in a website review, “I had the best experience at Tri City Aesthetics and Wellness. My needs were listened to with thoughtful care. My treatment was done with gentleness. Phil was professional and highly knowledgeable about his practice. My consultation was done in depth. I felt very confident in receiving my Botox treatment. Highly recommended.”

Another client, Amy Jo S., wrote in a website review, “I had misgivings about doing anything to my face. Phil put me at ease the moment I walked in the door. I had lip filler and marionette lines done. I am so happy with the work. Nobody notices unless I mention it – very discreet work. I will be going to Phil for my follow up. He did a fantastic job, and I couldn’t be happier.”

Botox injections target specific muscles such as in foreheads, facial creases, frown lines or around eyes. He explained that wrinkling naturally occurs with facial expressions and aging. He said Botox relaxes the injected muscles and reduces wrinkles. Botox treatments typically take two weeks to establish their full effect. Treatments can last as long as three months.

Botox is currently the top nonsurgical cosmetic procedure in the United States, according to consumer research.

Schafer also injects dermal fillers, a soft tissue substance which fills in wrinkles. It also plumps up lips, cheeks, laugh lines and wrinkles under the eyes. Dermal filler effects last from nine months to two years, depending on location of the injection and the product used.

Costs vary, dependent upon the kind of service. “Consultations are free. I charge only for procedures. My objective is to help educate people and make sure they understand completely the risks, contraindications and benefits of the procedures.”

For more information, visit Tricityaesthetics.com or call 928-515-3096.

What is a perfect day away from work?

“For me, being in the mountains with a close buddy, mountain biking. The mountains are my gym. That’s where I go to clear my mind, feel refreshed. Prescott is a mountain biking Mecca.”

When was the last time you were star-struck?

“That’s a difficult question. But when I was a helicopter flight nurse, I met a very prominent leader – also a flight nurse – who owns a podcast. He teaches best practices. Meeting and working with him – very cool.”

What’s your favorite cause or non-profit organization?

“My favorite cause is Mercy Ships. The work they do changes the lives of people. They take life-changing, life-saving surgical options to third-world countries. I hope someday to be able to volunteer to work full-time for that organization.”

What prompted you to dedicate so much time and money to becoming an acute care nurse practitioner?

“I genuinely love being able to make a tangible positive difference in people’s lives. Seeing people enjoy good health is truly gratifying to me.”

What’s your guilty pleasure?

“A big glass of cheap Cabernet Sauvignon from Trader’s Joes.” QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN

Granite Creek Park Rejuvenation Moving Forward

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Improved public safety and security, better lighting, attractive recreational enhancements, environmental protection, better signage and more and better access points to enter and exit – these are among recommended improvements to the downtown Granite Creek Corridor.

City representatives and members of the Granite Creek Corridor Revitalization Committee shared a draft of the master plan prepared by Natural Channel Design, a Flagstaff-based company that specializes in such projects, at a community meeting last month.

Allen Haden, an aquatic ecologist, emphasized that the improvements will be made in segments, not all at one time. “Changes will be prioritized over time, depending on cost and complexity,” he said.

The plan is the result of more than 18 months of collecting data and public input about rejuvenating the downtown Prescott Granite Creek Corridor.

“I am excited we have moved along this rapidly in planning,” said Prescott Recreation Services Director Joe Baynes. “The contacts and connections we have established with businesses, residents who use the Prescott trail system, and others who enjoy our unique environment have been rewarding. We really appreciate all the effort Allen and his team put into the draft.”

Though no final figure has been set, the City of Prescott has earmarked $1 million in the coming year’s budget to be dedicated to park improvements. That fiscal year’s budget begins July 1, 2020. The Prescott City Council has begun reviewing cost estimates and will be making decisions soon.

Already, a $79,401 grant from the Arizona Water Protection Fund has made it possible to support the creation of a project master plan, said Tyler Goodman, assistant to the Prescott city manager. Additional federal, state and private grants have been filed requesting more funding to support improvements.

Goodman reported that to date, more than 650 comments and responses from the greater public had been submitted regarding recommendations for creek and trail rejuvenation. About half of the city allocation of $1 million is tentatively scheduled to create a splash pad playground and restrooms. Underground water lines have already been installed.

It is estimated that more than 160,000 people use the Greenway Trail between Gurley Street and Granite Creek Park, making it one of the most visited stretches of trail within the city. That number is expected to increase significantly when the Hilton Garden Inn at the intersection of Sheldon and Montezuma Streets is completed this fall.

During the meeting, Goodman, Baynes, Kristy Everson, chair for the Granite Creek Corridor Revitalization Committee, and others responded to questions and provided explanations. They also showed map details and illustrations from the multi-page draft master plan.

The current master plan is focused mainly on the downtown area, but future planning phases are expected to include portions of the creek corridor that run through the Prescott College area near the Miller Valley Road.

Initially, an approximate 1.2 miles of the creek corridor, beginning at the Aubrey Street Bridge south of Goodwin Street and ending in Granite Creek Park along Montezuma Street near the LaGuardia Bridge, will be rejuvenated. The corridor width is approximately 70 feet. The project emphasis is focused on preserving and protecting the urban ecological greenspace. QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN

For more information about the master plan, visit prescott-az.gov/city-management/leadership/programs-2/granite-creek-cooridor-master-plan

 

Winfield at the Ranch Preparing for Residents

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Marketing itself as “Prescott’s premier luxury apartment community,” Winfield at the Ranch is nearing competition.

Pre-leasing is to begin this month, with new residents expected to begin moving in around March 1.

Luxury may be the germane term for the apartments, for they are being built on what was once the site of one of the wealthiest quartz ore gold mines in Central Arizona. Located on the eastern edge of Prescott and nestled on the south side of Bullwhacker Hill, the site was famous for almost 60 years – 1876 to 1936 – as Bullwhacker Mine. Records show that hundreds of tons of gold ore were extracted from the steep hillsides before the mine closed.

Now, those who rent the luxurious apartments will extract spectacular vistas looking south over panoramic rolling hills and natural surroundings toward the Bradshaw Mountains.

The six-building apartment complex at 1470 Lee Circle will house 100 apartment units, all of which have elevated views. Residents here will have almost immediate access to retail shopping and service centers, malls, schools and restaurants.

Dale Phillips, president of Stellar Residential, a Scottsdale-based management firm, and Tanner Bickelhaupt, founder and CEO of Tanbic Company, a Scottsdale-based development company, offered QCBN an exclusive tour.

They pointed out that the seven-acre apartment community will feature 48 one-bedroom, 720 square-foot units, and 48 two-bedroom, 1,070 square-foot units as rental options. In addition, four 1,240 square-foot carriage apartments with direct access garages are also available.

Lease rates vary from $1,200 to $2,730, depending upon views, amenities and first-, second- or third-floor locations. All apartments feature granite countertops, hardwood plank-style flooring, stainless steel appliances, tile backsplashes, eight-foot exterior window walls and private balconies, Phillips said. Covered parking is immediately accessible.

“What we’re really proud of is that just steps from each apartment are barbecue grills, porch-style swings, fire pits, designated reading and relaxation areas, a heated year-round swimming pool and Jacuzzi, and a fully equipped fitness center. What’s more, Winfield is pet-friendly. On the east side of the development is a scenic pet play area,” Phillips said.

Phillips, who has been involved with more than 60 multi-family developments throughout Arizona, including Phoenix, Flagstaff and Scottsdale, was emphatic that Winfield apartments were designed for spacious comfort for residents who want to experience a comfortable, low-stress, low-density living environment.

“There’s a pent-up demand from people who view home ownership a little differently,” added Bickelhaupt. “Our demographics are renters by choice, not because they have to rent. It has been our focus from day one to accommodate that lifestyle.”

Both men credit Jim and Linda Lee, longtime Prescott residents and developers, with having the vision to construct luxury apartments on Winfield at the Ranch. “Sixteen months ago, when we had the ground-breaking for Winfield, we heard people from throughout the community praise Jim and Linda for their never-ending commitment to the well-being of Prescott residents,” said Phillips.

He continued, “In that same spirit and love for Prescott, partners of Tanbic Company have committed to give up to $100,000 back to the local community. During the last year, five local non-profits were selected to participate. When each of the 100 units gets its first new resident who signs the lease, $700 per apartment unit will be contributed to one of the five charities the resident selects. The next year, if the same resident decides to donate again to the selected charity, that donation will be matched up to an additional $300.”

Bickelhaupt explained, “You can’t create a community without becoming a part of that community. Whether our residents are local or moving in from another area, we believe this is a great way to engage them in what is important to the community at hand.”

Phillips agreed. “What’s especially gratifying to us is setting new standards, and Winfield is well on the way. Winfield is a winner for the community.” QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN

For more information about Winfield at the Ranch, call 928-449-3085 or visit winfieldranch.com.

New SANA Hospital Fills Community Medical Needs

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Saying everyone in the community will benefit from the opening of a state-of-the art hospital, Prescott Mayor Greg Mengarelli welcomed executives, administrators, healthcare professionals, elected officials, staff personnel and residents at the grand opening of SANA Behavioral Hospital during afternoon ceremonies on Dec. 9.

The parking lot was crowded as visitors toured the 15,378-square-foot, one-story, recently constructed medical facility, estimated to cost between $9 million and $10 million.

SANA Hospital Administrator Pamela K. Pierce introduced Kirk Olsen, principal and owner of ERH Healthcare, a Salt Lake City-based hospital development company that manages SANA hospitals.

Olsen said the decision to build SANA in Prescott was based on extensive research about medical needs of the broader community.

Pierce told the crowd that official occupancy will begin when the Arizona Department of Health Services Medical Licensing unit surveys the hospital and licenses it as a “Specialty Hospital in Geriatric Psychiatry.” That was expected to occur at the end of December, she said.

The hospital will focus on providing acute integrated in-patient psychiatric and medical care to adults age 65 and above on Medicare, and 55 and above with additional contractors as they add SANA to the provider networks.

In an exclusive interview with Quad Cities Business News, Pierce, a highly credentialed behavioral health leader with more than 30 years of experience, described the 24-bed hospital with 14 bedrooms as a privately held facility. “Our hospital will provide a healing environment where patients feel safe and well-cared for. We will provide care that equally addresses a person’s emotional and physical well-being. To do this, we have a team of dedicated and experienced health care professionals who have a commitment to quality care in serving the local community,” she said.

Pierce explained that primary emphasis will be on adults with Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans. She noted that SANA also will pursue contracts such as Tricare to provide services for veterans.

Particular focus will be directed toward care for patients with mental disorders that cause major disabilities in social, interpersonal, occupational and or educational functions that lead to dangerous or life-threatening situations. Such conditions can be addressed only within an acute in-patient setting, she explained.

“We will provide medically appropriate services to our patients who may need 24/7 oxygen, C-Paps or other medical care within our scope of service.” SANA also will have linkages with Yavapai Regional Medical Center to provide specialty services it does not have.

“I want to emphasize we will work with all patients to be certain they get the care they need, either with our hospital or with another hospital that accepts their insurance plan. I see SANA as valued added, not competition, in the medical community,” said Pierce.

The hospital will include a large patient activity area. It also will have several group rooms for educational and behavioral treatment experiences for patients, family members and caregivers, Pierce said.  Meals will be catered.

Professional Staff Will Number More Than 60

Pierce will be the lead SANA administrator. She introduced psychiatrist Dr. Omar Ruiloba and Dr. Elizabeth Caspian as co-medical directors.

Longtime local Prescott physician Dr. Sam Downey has accepted the position of associate medical director. “We have needed a hospital like this for a long, long time,” said Downey. “SANA will fill a major health need in our community. The professionals in this hospital will serve a serious community need.”

Among other professionals introduced were Director of Nursing Kim Kreiner; Director of Social Services Mary Ellen Hays, LCSW; Administrative Chief Sherlyne Hall; Quality Management Director Lynn Levine, Ph.D.; and Registered Pharmacist Paul Smith.

Other employees will include full-time and part-time positions in nursing, health service patient care technicians, pharmacy staff and housekeeping and janitorial personnel.

A History of Hospital Management

While the SANA hospital in Prescott is the first of the chain in Arizona, another is scheduled to open in Gilbert in late 2020. The Prescott hospital is being cited as a model for others. The organization has a history of owning, leasing and managing rural and medium size hospitals in several states.

Ryan Eggleston, another partner in the management company, commented that while the new building was in every sense “medically state-of-the-art,” it is what goes on within the walls of the building that makes the real difference for patients. He added that small and rural hospitals require a complex blend of strategic, operational and financial expectations to be successful. Eggleston has more than a decade of executive hospital leadership with hospitals in the western United States.

SANA Behavioral Hospital is located at 181 Whipple. For more about information, visit sanabehavioralhospital.com. QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN

Final Days of Sears at Prescott Gateway Mall

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The countdown to closing the doors one last time is underway at the Gateway Mall Sears.

Officials from the management company, Transformco, in Chicago, selected the Prescott store as one of 51 Sears stores and 45 Kmart stores to be shut down after the first of the year.

It is anticipated that the retail space occupied by Sears will be shuttered in February. No plans have been announced for future occupancy of that space.

The Sears store in Prescott is the only one listed in Arizona to be closed, leaving only two anchor stores at the Gateway Mall – Dillard’s and JCPenney.

Liquidation sales began after Thanksgiving Day. Since then, the store has displayed banners and posters announcing “Store Closing” sales throughout the mall.

Sears has been at the Gateway Mall in Prescott for almost 18 years, since the mall opened in March 2002.

No specific date has been released as to when the store will close for good.

In the meantime, store hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday.

Gateway Property is Last of Sears or Kmart Stores in Quad Cities

During the past few years, the company owning Sears and Kmart closed several properties in the Central Arizona region. Prescott lost its Kmart store in 2008, when it then became a C-A-L Store at 1048 Willow Creek Road. Prescott Valley lost its Kmart Store in 2016. That building was converted to Pruitt’s Fine Furniture at 7550 Highway 69.

It was a bit more than a year ago when Transformco bought the Sears and Kmart conglomerate during a bankruptcy process. In November, Transformco announced it would close 96 more Sears and Kmart stores. Company management indicated it has faced a difficult retail environment.

During the past 15 years, more than 3,500 Sears and Kmart stores have closed, with a loss of more than 250,000 jobs. About 180 stores remain in the United States.

Founded in 1893 in Chicago by Richard Warren Sears and Alvah Curtis Roebuck, the chain, then known as Sears-Roebuck, was at one time the biggest retailer in the United States. Originally founded as a mail-order catalog store, it expanded to cities and hamlets across America. The chain reached is pinnacle in the 1970s, when other retailers such as Home Depot, Best Buy and Walmart challenged that leadership. QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN

Prescott Junction has New Owner

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The historic Prescott Junction Restaurant, one of the first businesses motorists encounter as they approach the downtown area, has a new owner as of mid-November.

Jim Cabral, who owns and operates five other eateries and catering services in the Quad Cities, bought the restaurant from Don and Nancy Burton, who had owned and operated Prescott Junction for more than a quarter of a century. Cabral has been in the Prescott area for 35 years, after having come here from his home state of Rhode Island.

Cabral says nothing significant will change at the popular restaurant located near where highways 69 and 89 merge on the east side of Prescott. The menu will remain essentially the same. Cabral hopes the staff, some of whom have been employed at the restaurant for 20 years, will remain as well.

“We’ll keep the same American-style menu that has been so successful in attracting returning and new customers,” he said.

Considered one of the best locations in town at the gateway to Prescott, the restaurant has abundant free parking and positive reviews. TripAdvisor calls it “one of the top 20 of the more than 150 restaurants and cafes in the greater Prescott area.”

In July, Cabral was named “Business Leader of the Year” by the Prescott Valley Chamber of Commerce during its annual awards event.

Former owners Don and Nancy Burton say they now plan to retire and spend time with family, especially their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They also plan to travel.

“We’re proud of all we’ve achieved, but it’s time to try something else,” Burton said.  “What we’ll miss is seeing the many regulars. Some have been coming ever since we bought the business.”

Married for 47 years, the Burtons have been involved in the restaurant business for most of their adult lives. Prior to moving to Prescott, Burton had been a vice president with the national JB’s Restaurant chain, which involved his traveling the country to evaluate the company’s four operating regions.

That led him to find the restaurant in Prescott, labeled JB’s. The name changed to Prescott Junction in 2007-2008, when the Burtons decided they wanted to shift the JB’s menu emphasis to something that had more appeal to local tastes.

One thing that did not change was the “Wall of Fame” of autographed photographs of celebrities who had dined at the restaurant.

The Burtons are happy they and the Prescott Junction, located at 1121 E. Sheldon Street, have had a role in the city’s history. QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN

Visitors Charmed by Arizona’s Christmas City

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Winter visitors and skiers will be pleased to hear that more seats are available on flights to Denver this Christmas season. Moreover, a new non-stop flight will be added between Prescott and Denver beginning March 5.

That doubles the number of Denver departures daily from Prescott Regional Airport (PRC).The additional flight will operate through June 2020.

Data released by the City of Prescott and the Arizona Office of Tourism reveal the Quad Cities area is becoming a favored destination among national and international visitors. Moderate climate, an abundance of recreational activities, accommodations and a variety of food and entertainment options have resulted in an increase in visitors.

That’s certainly true during the next few weeks, when “Arizona’s Christmas City” receives statewide and regional attention because of holiday events.

Not long ago, USA Today ranked Prescott as a “must-see” community in Arizona, especially during the Christmas season.

The “Christmas City” designation goes back to 1962, when then Governor Paul Fannin named Prescott as Christmas Town. In 1989, the late Governor Rose Mofford issued an official proclamation, calling it Arizona’s Christmas City.

 

Holiday Events Have Begun

One holiday event that has become famous internationally is the 27th annual Gingerbread Village in the lobby of the Prescott Resort. It opened Nov. 25, and will run through New Year’s Day. It is known as the largest gingerbread village in the world. The carefully crafted, often whimsical displays are created from not just gingerbread but also shredded wheat, crackers, gumdrops, mints, licorice and chocolate chips.

The popular Valley of Lights display in Prescott Valley began during theThanksgiving weekend and continues through Dec. 30.

Prescott Valley has a Festival of Lights and Parade beginning at 5 p.m., Dec. 6, around the Prescott Valley Civic Center.

With the theme “Ugly Sweater Christmas,” the Prescott Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring one of the state’s most popular parades at 1 p.m., Dec. 7. Entries will include bands and marchers from throughout Arizona.

That evening, thousands are expected around the courthouse plaza for the 65th annual Courthouse Lighting at 5 p.m. Earlier in November, the annual fundraiser at the Jersey Lilly Saloon raised more than $18,000 to help cover some of the costs of the estimated $85,000 it takes to string lights around the Courthouse.

That same evening, Sharlot Hall Museum is featuring Frontier Christmas exhibits.

On Dec. 8, those who enjoy traditional holiday and Christmas music can hear the Prescott Pops Symphony in a 3 p.m. concert at the Yavapai College Performing Arts Center.

Starting at 5:30 p.m., Dec. 13, the ever-popular Acker Night Showcase will feature more than 100 musicians performing throughout the greater downtown Prescott area.

At 6 p.m., Dec. 14, Chino Valley will turn on Christmas lights at Memory Park and feature Santa greeting children.

Those who enjoy the traditional “Nutcracker Suite” by Tchaikovsky can hear it at the Yavapai College Performing Arts Center at 7 p.m., Dec. 15.

Kids interested in decorating cookies are invited to the Dec. 18 Cookie Decorating event at 1:30 p.m. at the Prescott Public Library on Goodwin Street.

Those who enjoy dance music can hear a variety of groups at 7 p.m., Dec. 20, when the Yavapai College Jazz Band, the Roughriders and the Trailblazers, perform for a scholarship fundraiser at the concert hall.

For ringing in the New Year, Prescott offers the Whiskey Row New Year’s Eve Boot Drop. An illuminated giant cowboy boot will drop at 10 p.m. and again at midnight, with festivities from 6 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.

For more information, visit-prescott.com/Christmas. QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN

Granite Dells Estates Grand Opening Attracts Hundreds

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“If we charged for the views, some people couldn’t afford these lots,” one real estate broker said while waving his hand in a sweeping arc toward the horizon. He was talking to several potential homebuyers during the grand opening kickoff event of Phase Two, Granite Dells Estates.

Granite Dells’ owner and founder Mike Fann, president of Fann Contracting, said he was pleased to see Phase Two begin. It was only four years ago that he opened Phase One on the 1,100-acre, multi-million dollar development during the summer of 2015. Since then, it has grown beyond his expectations.

Hundreds of interested buyers drove to the subdivision located just a few hundred yards south of the Granite Dells Parkway off Highway 89A on the northeast edge of Prescott. During the day-long event Sept. 14, they had a chance to tour all three neighborhoods: Sunset Ridge, a private gated community with 12 two-acre or larger lots for custom and semi-custom homes; The Peaks, which features 60 custom home sites of up to 1.4 acres; and The Vistas, that contain 83 custom lots, with views in virtually every direction.

All homes have access to the just-opened Granite Dells Clubhouse, located at 5520 Crown Rock Trail. The 4,500-square-foot contemporary design building features a full fitness center and state-of-the art gym equipped with sophisticated training equipment, said Kerry Hunt, the HOAMCO community association manager.

Hunt explained the clubhouse also has locker rooms with towel service, a heated outdoor Olympic-size swimming pool and spa (which will operate seasonally), two pickleball courts, an event lawn and a fire pit for gatherings.

All homes have underground utility infrastructure. City water, sewer and garbage collection, natural gas, electricity are all available. So is fiber optic service for cable TV and internet, telephone and other electronic communications systems.

A recently constructed nearby 3.25 million-gallon water tank serves not just the Granite Dells area but also adjacent land both north and south of Highway 89A.

Several Builders Represented On Site Interested homebuyers can choose from models available from Dorn Homes and Mandalay Homes. Both builders have model homes open and sales representatives on site in Phase Two.

Dorm Homes has five available floorplans starting in the high $300,000s. Dorn representatives say their homes are “Organic Home Plus” healthy and extremely energy efficient.

Mandalay Homes has four models open and six available floorplans starting in the mid$300,000s. The ION Series energy-efficient homes received a U.S. Department of Energy Housing Innovation Award. Additionally, among custom home builders are Carrington Homes, Stoddard Lifestyle Homes, Bella Construction and BSN Builders. All have representatives available to meet with interested buyers.

Anita Morgan-Reese, an administrative assistant with HOAMCO, has an office in the clubhouse. She and her assistant, Michelle Passmore, are available from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., seven days a week, to meet those interested.
They also can be reached at 928-350-8146.

Custom home sites also are available from the New Home Marketplace and its representatives at Realty Executives, 113 W. Goodwin Street in downtown Prescott. They can be reached at 928-308-2211.

Prioritizing Natural Environment and Open Space Fann, who has lived in Prescott more than 60 years, reemphasized what he said when he first purchased the land for future home development.

“We are intent on making the Dells a premier residential area that offers owners a healthy and environmentally sustainable lifestyle.” Fann said that housing developments will follow the natural contours of the terrain, and that dedicated open space is a priority. He noted that the platting of the community provided for almost 300 acres of open space.

Hiking trails and wildlife corridors will link to other trails along the historic Peavine Trail, which is near Watson Lake and the long-abandoned railroad bed. Other trails will tie into the popular Iron King Trail that heads east toward Prescott Valley.

Fann emphasized that he wanted Phase Two to fuse ecological and environmental features with attractive, practical and professionally designed and engineered homes that would make homeowners proud.

“The Dells will be a dream community located in a wondrous natural setting for nature lovers and discerning homeowners,” a Fann spokesperson said. QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN

For more information, visit LifeAtTheDells.com.