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PJ Connolly Scouts the Southwest for Picture Perfect Scenery

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It is always fun when you know someone who “knows someone,” and PJ Connolly has known and worked for a lot of famous someones in Flagstaff and the Four Corners region. That is because it is the nature of the entertainment industry and his business, Locations Southwest and Production Services (LSW).

Whether it is a commercial for Ford Motor Company, a feature film like “Guardians of the Galaxy,” or special projects like Will Smith celebrating his 50th birthday by bungee jumping out of a helicopter over the Grand Canyon, Connolly is Northern Arizona’s liaison for location scouting, production management and film equipment rental.

“A part of what we do is help with logistics, planning, procuring permits and line production – making sure a film project runs smoothly and under budget,” said Connolly, who has been a location scout for 20 years. “Some projects require setting up an infrastructure such as building a road for big film crews then returning the land to its natural state.”

Connolly said, “You can always find a pretty place to photograph or film, but the question is, can you get permission to bring in a crew of 300 or more? We help with logistics, planning procuring permits and line production, even lodging, supplies, extra crew, traffic control and more.”

Sometimes, Connolly will spend a whole year scouting for a project. He also has one of the largest collections of Southwest location images in the world.

With a strong background in filming in rural remote locations, LSW specializes in feature films, commercials, television, print advertising and IMAX. “I wore several hats for the IMAX project,” said Connolly. “In addition to scouting locations along the Colorado River, we cast young Navajo children for the film.”

Connolly has a long history of working with Native American tribes, particularly the Navajo Nation.

“PJ is a location and film expert in Northern Arizona working with some of the largest production companies that film in and around Flagstaff,” said City of Flagstaff Communications Specialist and Film Commissioner Meg Roederer.

Working as a grip (camera assistant) in his early years, Connolly began his career in Phoenix. A few of his memorable projects are “Forrest Gump” – one of his all-time favorite movies, several mini-series with Richard Chamberlain, “Into the Wild,” and “Natural Born Killers” with Woody Harrelson. “Woody was very pleasant and fun to work with,” he said.

Connolly was also a river guide on and off for 15 years. He speaks fondly of a project that he claims was his favorite. “We were filming a live television program for a public broadcasting station out of Japan. I was on a boat on the Colorado River and we relayed our feed to the top of the rim of the Grand Canyon near Desert View to Japan via satellite.”

“I know PJ well and he’s a great guy,” said Arizona Film and Digital Media Director Matthew Earl Jones.

Gear rental is another part of LSW, from a five-ton grip package to sandbags, film accessories such as silks, flags and filming equipment for smaller projects. “This way, they don’t need to bring all these supplies on a truck or airplane,” explained Connolly.

“Since Flagstaff is the largest city and a regional hub for Northern Arizona, it’s a perfect base for production companies. Filming in Flagstaff provides beautiful and diverse landscapes, panoramic views, a four-season climate and historic areas as well as support services. Film projects highlight our community and contribute to our local economy by utilizing our production resources as well as our accommodations, catering services and much more,” said Roederer. “And PJ always provides excellent service and advice.”

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received and from whom?

“My mom, and it was related to stressing out and taking on more than I can handle. She was a good Christian lady and she would say, ‘Yoke up with the Lord.’ Turn it over. You can’t control everything.”

When was the last time you danced?

“It was at my son’s wedding and recently Pickin’ in the Pines Bluegrass Festival.”

What hobby or skill would you like to develop?

“Fly fishing. I was out scouting for a commercial at Lake Powell for a couple days and went down to Lees Ferry for one hour. It was awesome and I got two rainbows [trout].”

Where is your favorite place to vacation?

“Maui, but I love going on river trips in the Grand Canyon, Lees Ferry to fish and going to the Rockies, too.”

Of all the actors you’ve met, who impressed you the most?

“John Tesh. After a project we worked on, he came up to me and gave me a big hug and tucked a couple 100 dollar bills in my pocket and said, ‘Go have some beers on me.’” QCBN

By V. Ronnie Tierney, QCBN

A Legacy of Giving Back

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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 number of groups, organizations and individuals who benefit the greater region and, in some cases, the state.
At the same time, the Lees have never sought honors or recognition for what they do as they quietly provide support to the performing arts, schools, health care and medical organizations, social agencies and many others. This has been their nature ever since they arrived in Prescott in 1977, and began developing real estate and commercial development projects. Among projects were the Ponderosa Mall, the Ranch at Prescott, Prescott Gateway Mall, the Walmart Super Center and Touchmark at the Ranch.
When they were announced as “Philanthropists of the Year” during a formal luncheon at the Prescott Resort, Aug. 9, the crowd responded with a standing ovation.

The 2018 Philanthropist of the Year, Mike Fann, founder-owner of Fann Contracting, introduced the Lees as “lovers of humanity and the community.”

Texas Natives Share Common Interests

Although they grew up only a few miles apart in Texas, Jim and Linda never knew each other until years later when they traveled almost 6,000 miles and were both working in Russia. Linda, who holds degrees in English and history from the University of Texas, was teaching in Russia. Jim, who received an honorable discharge from the U.S. Navy following his service near the end of World War II in China, had returned to Arizona and enrolled in Phoenix College. Later, he accepted a consulting position with People to People in Russia.
What brought them together in that far-away country was opera, classical music and the arts.

“We both love great music,” said Linda. “That’s how we met. We both so enjoyed it that we’ve traveled back to the Bolshoi Ballet many times. We’ve also been to the Kirov Ballet in St. Petersburg. In fact, we’ve probably been to every great music hall in Western Europe.”
Jim agreed. “And, we love Santa Fe and the Santa Fe Opera. We have this vision that Prescott can equal Santa Fe in being a nationally recognized center for music and the arts. Prescott and this area have so much talent.”

The couple cites the Prescott POPS Symphony Orchestra as just one talented homegrown organization. They especially praise the Prescott POPS for its sponsorship of the annual Music Memory project that brings third through fifth graders from throughout the county to hear classical music at the Yavapai College Performing Arts Center.
They also are involved in supporting Dennis Houser, who directs the Prescott Chorale; they contribute to the Yavapai Symphony Association; they help the public schools and their music programs; they are longtime advocates for Prescott Friends of Arizona Opera; and the various musical and artistic programs offered through Yavapai College have their support.

Jim explained, “When we moved here in the late 1970s, we knew Prescott would be our home. We also knew it would grow and become a major cultural influence in Central Arizona. We made a conscious decision to support such aesthetic programs.”

Linda agreed. “It’s mind-boggling, the amount of talent that we enjoy. We want to encourage it as much as we can.”

Beyond the arts, they are vocal advocates for quality educational experiences as well, such as the Jim and Linda Lee Planetarium atop the STEM Building on the Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) campus. They wanted to create awareness about ERAU throughout the rural areas of Central and Northern Arizona, so they proposed the construction of the 47-foot diameter domed planetarium.

“Planetarium enthusiasts often have young children. We wanted these youngsters in our part of the state to be able to experience a unique learning experience,” Jim said.

“In just the 20 months since the planetarium opened in January 2018, almost 35,000 people have participated in their programs. That’s not just local people,” said Linda. “Data show that visitors are from throughout the U.S. and several foreign countries.”

They both agree that Prescott has become a desirable cultural, artistic and educational hub that well deserves the reputation as one of the most livable communities in the United States.

What is your favorite pastime?

Jim: “Anything involving classical music and opera.”
Linda: “Especially if it is something by Verdi.”

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

Jim: “I can’t recall who told me this many years ago, but it was, ‘Do not think too small.’ That’s my advice to people in this area. Prescott is in a period of transition and we cannot think too small.”

What makes you smile?

Linda: “Seeing these children from rural areas enjoy musical and artistic experiences like those provided by the Music Memory Program, which the Prescott POPS sponsors every February.”

You endowed a program at the University of Arizona College of Medicine several years ago. What was the reason behind that decision?

Linda: “We believe in quality healthcare programs, so we established the Jim and Linda Lee Memorial Endowment for Cardiovascular Disease there.”

Jim: “The Sarver Heart Center founded at the UofA Medical Center is now recognized as one of the world’s leading cardiovascular research institutions.”

Why did you choose Prescott as your home?

Jim: “When we first moved here from the Valley more than 40 years ago, we left evaporative coolers and oppressive heat. We told people we were moving to Prescott, for that’s where heaven was.”

Linda: “It still is.”

QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN

Flying High

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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 mayor of the small but bustling town of Tusayan.

Sanderson acquired the Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certification at 28 years old. It is one of the most advanced certifications a pilot can obtain and necessary for any pilot wanting to fly commercial airliners, which was Sanderson’s intention. However, he had a change of plans.

“I learned early on that flying commercial airlines was not my cup of tea,” said Sanderson, who flew commercial airline flights for more than a year. “I’d rather fly over beautiful areas such as Lake Powell, Monument Valley and the Grand Canyon.” So, that is what he did. “My first job was flying scenic flights for Skywest Airlines based out of Page. The sights are so amazing and I loved sharing that view with people.”

Sanderson spent the first three years of his life in Page, and that is where he met his wife, Sheila, and raised their three children. They currently have five grandchildren. They made their move to Tusayan in 2002 where he began working for Grand Canyon Airlines.

“Craig has a passion for the Grand Canyon and does an outstanding job,” said GCSA President Jake Tomlin. “We’re so pleased to have him on our team, since tourism and hospitality runs in his family.”

Indeed, Sanderson’s love for sharing beautiful sights was inherited from his father, Bill Sanderson, who, along with his brothers, started one of the first river running companies in Page, Sanderson River Expeditions.

“The Bureau of Reclamation was looking to build three dams on the Colorado River and they asked my uncles to take them down the river. After the river trip, the Bureau of Reclamation gave a couple of Army surplus rafts to the family and the river running business started from there.” The company was sold in the 70s and is currently owned by Aramark, running as Wilderness River Expeditions.

“I never wanted to get into politics, never saw myself as a politician, but about six years ago, there was a recall election and the mayor at the time approached me and said, ‘Hey, you need to run for council.’ I said, ‘No way, you’re crazy, that’s not me.’ So, he told me about the town and why we need housing here and how people struggle.”

Sanderson served as council member, vice-mayor and, finally, mayor.

In 2016, Sanderson was Tusayan’s first directly elected mayor. His primary goal is to improve the quality of life for the people who live in Tusayan and to enhance the experience of the more than six million visitors who pass through the community to the Grand Canyon.

“I have had the pleasure of working with Mayor Craig Sanderson to advance and improve the Town Court in Tusayan,” said Judge Rob Krombeem, Justice of the Peace, Williams Justice Court. “Mayor Sanderson brings the type of forward-thinking, collaborative leadership that more communities need, particularly in these times of fiscal and other community challenges. He leads by example with a servant’s heart and I appreciate how he puts faith and family at the forefront of his priorities.”

If you could describe yourself in one word, what would it be?

“Peacemaker: having the personality to diffuse volatile situations and to help others reach a middle-ground compromise.”

What’s your favorite thing to do when not working?

“Our family loves boating and swimming, especially at Lake Powell. At my job, I can’t call it work when I get to fly and experience the beauty and awesomeness of this amazing place I have the privilege to call home.”

Where do you like to travel?

Lake Powell and Grand Canyon are my top two.

What is the most rewarding part of your job at Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines?

“Over my long career, I’ve contributed to the success of about a thousand pilots who began their careers working with and for me. Most of these pilots are now flying with a major airline.”

What is the prettiest sight you’ve seen from an airplane? 

“Wow! With over 20,000 flight hours, mostly over the national parks, I see beautiful sights every day. The most incredible are the ones that only last a few minutes. Grand Canyon and Lake Powell are beautiful on any day, but the right combination of sunlight, thundershowers and/or clouds can turn incredible into unbelievable. FBN

By V. Ronnie Tierney, QCBN

Grand Canyon Railway General Manager: A Man in Motion

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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 train operations as well.

With responsibilities ranging from maintenance of the trains to ticketing, Baker has a lot of motion in his job. “I oversee the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel maintenance, safety, security and sustainability and I’m responsible for all aspects of the trains,” he explained in his gentle, polished English accent.

Born in London, Baker has lived in the United States since December 24, 1989, and became a U.S. citizen in 2005. “I was a service brat and every time my dad was relocated, so was the family. I attended 11 schools growing up.”

His career in transportation began with the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company (P & O Lines). He then graduated from college in the northeast of England in 1977 and headed out to the “wild blue yonder.” He has a son, Kieran, who works in New York City and a daughter, Kinzi, who serves as an animal handler at Bearizona.

“I started working for Fred Harvey Company [later, Amfac, and now, Xanterra] in 1991 as director of engineering at the Grand Canyon. During my time there, I managed three renovations of El Tovar, built the day care, recreation center and a number of employee apartments.”

In 2007, Baker transferred to run the Grand Canyon Railway train operations in Williams and later, became general manager.

A highlight of his life was during a hike from the North Rim of the Grand Canyon to the South Rim. “My wife, Sherry, was a mule wrangler and had taken a group to Phantom Ranch. It turned out she needed a water heater on her trailer, so I installed one for her. We were married at Yaki Point in 2002.” Sherry kept her “dream job” as a wrangler for 10 years.

“Bob and I have worked closely for 11 years developing a close friendship and dynamic business relationship,” said General Manager of Resort Operations Jeff D’Arpa. “We have collaborated on countless construction projects, business initiatives and the daily operation of running the hotel and train operations at Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel. I couldn’t have asked for a better business partner and person to take on the last decade of challenges and opportunities. “

According to Baker, in 2018, approximately 184,357 passengers rode the train to the Grand Canyon from Williams. This equates to 72,000 fewer cars on Highway 64, which can get busy during peak seasons.

The apex of the year for the Grand Canyon Railway is the Polar Express Train Ride where families arrive in matching pajamas with “smiling faces.”

“You cannot put a price on seeing the joy of the children and parents’ faces when they see the North Pole and Santa Claus,” said Baker. “Approximately 96,000 rode the Polar Express Train in 2018, which runs from November to early January.

May 10 marked the 30th anniversary of the re-inauguration of the Grand Canyon Railway. The day was commemorated with a double header using both steam engines (the other steam locomotive is #2960, built in 1923).  

What are the character qualities you appreciate most in business associates? 

“Honesty and integrity, what they do when no one is looking.  I will go to great lengths to help if you tell me the truth, but I cannot help you if I do not know what really happened.”

What is the best advice you’ve ever received?

“Learn to type. My father gave me a software program called SageSoft and with that program I learned to type. This was back in the 1980s when I was still at sea and got teased about being a secretary! This was invaluable advice as I moved from manual work to office work.”

What is your favorite dish? 

“I love Thai food, but I’m particularly partial to a good curry!”

What hobby would you like to pursue? 

“I love fixing things. I have rebuilt a number of cars – older British sports cars – over the years and enjoy that. I have a 1950 Chevy pickup in need of rebuilding. Hopefully, I will get to work on that one day.”

When the movie is made about your life, who will play you?

“Pretty sure no one would be silly enough to make a movie about me, but I would like to play me. God has brought me on an amazing journey, matched me to the most amazing woman in my wife, Sherry, and given me two great children, now 30 and 26 years old, and even carried me through some tough medical times, including cancer in 2013.” QCBN

By V. Ronnie Tierney, QCBN

Locally Sourced; Regionally Recognized

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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 parents are Italian and Lebanese, so he said celebrations were always centered around food.

Now, he is the owner of BiGA, a restaurant that focuses on modern and local food. He shops at the Prescott Farmers Market, supporting local growers and keeping money in the community. “We are out there every Saturday. Most of our customers shop there. You see our employees shopping there.”

Panza was invited to participate in the Devour Culinary Classic at the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix. The Feb. 23 event was a local showcase of the state’s top chefs and restaurateurs, with demonstrations, competitions and tastings.

“I was super excited to represent Prescott,” he said.

There were between 50 and 60 vendors displaying their best dishes for the event.

“We served duck with a savory bread pudding, a local carrot puree, dried grape chutney and a pomegranate reduction.” Panza says it did his heart good when “someone came to the booth and said, ‘So this is the duck we have been hearing about all day!’ That was pretty neat.”

Panza first came to Prescott to open the Capital Canyon Club. He was with the restaurant for about two years before he decided to break out on his own. He built a following by offering pop-up dinners around town.

“They were a blast. People got acquainted with us,” he said.

The opportunity to buy BiGA came about two years ago. “It is not a huge place, only nine tables and a bar, but a person never has to wait more than 15 or 20 minutes for a table. We just get them through.”

Local favorites are the roasted chicken entrée, the mussels dish with tomato fennel broth and a burger featuring local beef.

The menu changes constantly depending on the season and what is available.

“We make all our own bread in house,” he said.

In fact, the demand for their bread and rolls by other restaurants is growing quickly.

BiGA, by the way, is an Italian bread starter with fermented flour and yeast.

Standing by his side is his wife, Cassandra Hankison, who is in charge of everything except food.

“You name it, I do it, from keeping the lights on to running out to the grocery store because we need something right now,” she said with a laugh.

Hankison trained to be a pastry chef and met John when she applied at the Canyon Club. They were not hiring a pastry chef at the moment, but they did hire her to head up food and beverage at the restaurant.

Today, their business is booming.

“Things are going great. It’s crazy right now, it’s awesome,” she said.

Panza said he always talked about having his own restaurant and being a chef.

After high school, he attended Arizona State University, then culinary school at Scottsdale Community College. He worked for a few places, including a Different Point of View at The Point in Phoenix, before moving to Prescott.

BiGA is at located at 623 Mill Valley Road. It is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday. For more information, call 928-227-2543. QCBN

By Patty McCormac, QCBN

Hospitality from Kabul to the Grand Canyon

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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 here.” 

While in Kabul, Rodemyer worked as a government contractor for the U.S. Embassy, managing the food service for the entire state department operation, which includes six dining facilities and catering from the ground up. “It was an amazing experience and I had a great relationship with the ambassador and state department commanders.” 

Although he was in a war zone, he says he always felt safe at the compound in Kabul, because it was guarded by Gurkha Guard Force. “They are some of the greatest and most dedicated soldiers I’ve ever been around.” 

He adds that it was intense at times. “I was there when … a military hospital [was attacked] a few blocks down from the embassy. Another time, a bomb exploded in front of the German embassy.”    

It would seem that Kabul would be quite different from the Grand Canyon, but Rodemyer says there are some similarities. “We lived on the compound near the embassy, much like here at the Grand Canyon Village where we work and live nearby and have a close relationship with work associates.”  

Rodemyer’s management style has remained similar, focused on communicating with the team and leading by example. “I was an infantry platoon leader so I think it’s applicable in food and beverage to lead from the front. At the end of the day, a manager needs to be on the floor leading the team.” 

“Todd brings a diverse background in food and beverage including high volume operations that leave him undaunted with his task here at the South Rim,” said Xanterra Grand Canyon South Rim Lodges General Manager Mia Bell. “His leadership and commitment to high levels of customer service will be a major contribution to our food and beverage outlets. We’re very excited to have him join our team.” 

Along with the administration of the food and beverage at the legendary El Tovar Restaurant, Rodemyer will also be in charge of the Harvey House at the Bright Angel Lodge, Maswik Cafeteria and the Arizona Steakhouse (formally named the Arizona Room). He will also oversee the food service trucks and food carts, which will be stationed at the Grand Canyon Visitors Center and along the rim. 

Rodemyer was born in Chicago but attended high school in Pittsburgh, which he considers his home. “This is my first time living in the West and first time working at a National Park. It’s a new adventure and I look forward to exploring the Western United States.”   

Though Rodemyer has not had a chance to hike the Grand Canyon yet, he says he is looking forward to it. 

   

What is your favorite activity on your days off?   

“Skiing and spending time with my girlfriend, Cara, and my rescue dogs.” 

 

If you could change one component of your job, what would it be?  

“Honestly, more hours in the day and I would clone myself.”  

 

What is the greatest feat you’ve ever tackled? 

“Taking over the food and beverage in Afghanistan. We were running 8,000 meals per day in a war zone.” 

 

What makes you smile?   

“My rescue dogs. They are very near and dear to my heart. I wish I could do more, as there are so many dogs that need a home. I own three, a pit-bull mix, Labrador mix and a Rhodesian Ridgeback mix.” 

  

What animal would you compare yourself to and why?  

“The horse. According to an online quiz, the horse-type personality is a bit of a busy body, can’t sit still for long, travels a lot with plans all over the place, considers family a top priority and a great person but sometimes needs to slow down. Yep, that would be me.” QCBN 

 

By V. Ronnie Tierney, QCBN 

 

Melissa Cripps Composing a Life of Business, Service, Music 

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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 parents died within 12 days of each other,” Cripps said. “My mother died of leukemia and my father died of a broken heart 12 days later.”  

Characterizing her “world as a very different place now,” Cripps relishes blessings that have enriched her life and given new meaning to goals and relationships. Every day, she takes to heart her mother’s last words: to avoid judging others.

“I have received many blessings, not the least of which is a closer relationship with my older sister,” Cripps explained. “I have a different perspective on what is important. I don’t have room in my heart for hate or jealousy or resentment.”

For Cripps, the most rewarding aspects of her career always have been interacting with people and forging ahead with an impact. Her solid work ethic and desire to help people led to opening her own State Farm Insurance Agency Sept. 1, 1989. During this, the agency’s 30th year of operation, she mused about how her life all came together.

In 1968, at age 10, Cripps moved with her family to Flagstaff. She later relocated to Tempe to attend Arizona State University (ASU). Working for a family friend, she managed an insurance agency for a consumer lending service. She quickly learned the business, grew to appreciate the industry, and obtained her state insurance license. 

“I had never been in insurance before and had majored in music at university,” she said. “I liked solving problems and fitting the pieces together. It was very hard work in the beginning. I wondered at times if I was going to make it. Now, I look back on 30 years, which seem to have gone by very quickly.” 

Deciding after four years that she wanted to make money for herself rather than an employer, Cripps contacted major insurance companies about how to start her own agency. She chose to join State Farm because she appreciated the company and its contract for agents.

“However, they would not appoint me as an agent until I had my college degree,” she explained, noting that she had fewer than 20 credit hours remaining. “I was in Tempe at the time and wanted to get back to Flagstaff, so I wrote 22 letters to agencies in Flagstaff to get a job while I finished my degree at Northern Arizona University in night classes.”

State Farm Agent Bill Trent hired her for the two years until graduation and the State Farm approval to open her own agency.    

“I have worthwhile work where I can help people in so many different ways, not just through selling products, but by helping [clients] plan for the unexpected,” she explained. “I love working with people and helping them.”

Cripps attributes her business success to a strong focus on “doing a good job, doing the right thing and developing relationships, not only with clients and potential clients, but also with members of the community.”  

Some of that civic involvement indeed is music to others’ ears. Cripps began playing cello at age 12, ultimately participating in regional and state festivals and attending music camp at NAU. After leaving music for a while after high school, she successfully auditioned for the Flagstaff Symphony and played there for 20 years.

“Ten years ago, my husband and I, along with some brave souls, started Orchestra Northern Arizona,” she recalled, adding that her husband, David Cripps, is the artistic director and conductor. “This orchestra is comprised of mostly amateur players who love playing and have no other opportunities. Our tenth anniversary concert and celebration is in May.”  

That same month, she will complete her Masters of Music in Cello Performance at NAU, where she has studied with Mary Ann Ramos, Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA). “I started this journey after being inspired by attending the Baltimore Symphony Academy in 2014. The culmination of that academy was to play side-by-side with the professional musicians of the Baltimore Symphony.” 

No matter the situation, Cripps has composed her own path to success, filling life’s pages with notes high and low. Her son, Robert Collins, attends ASU and works at Gateway Community College. As a wife, mother, daughter, businesswoman, mentor and musician, Cripps has authored the sheet music for achieving her goals. 

“I was the first woman [insurance] agent in Flagstaff, and in fact, one of a very few throughout our region,” she said about her initial foray into the industry. “It was challenging to find my voice and stand in my strength, and to be accepted as professional and knowledgeable.”   

She built her business early on by networking through volunteerism. “I simply said ‘yes’ every time someone invited me to be on a committee or board of directors.” When she jumped back into volunteering several years after becoming a mother, she “made a conscious decision to only participate in organizations that fit my mission and passion.”

Cripps since has served on the Flagstaff Arts Council for six years, including two years as president, and regularly contributes to Girls on the Run and “just about anything to do with young people’s development.” A KNAU sponsor, she also is a major contributor to the arts through the Arboretum, Dark Skies, the Viola Awards and Orchestra Northern Arizona.

“My mission is helping to empower women, young and old, and my passion is the arts,” she explained, adding that she’s compiling a long list of “when I graduate” volunteer opportunities, including more involvement in Orchestra Northern Arizona. 

This year, she again plans to sponsor Movies on the Square and will host a refreshment table at the American Cancer Society Climb the Mountain to Conquer Cancer on Aug. 17. 

Having been honored with the Athena Award for leadership from the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce in 1995 and the Flagstaff Arts Council’s Viola Award in 2017, Cripps encourages others navigating the world of life and business to “just do the best job you can.”

She said, “Don’t try to find shortcuts or easy streets. It takes a lot less effort to simply do your job well and with integrity. Never measure success by the amount of money made or the size of the business. Success is knowing you did your best.” QCBN

By Sue Marceau   

  

Photo caption: 

Music has been a life-long love for State Farm agent Melissa Cripps. 

Courtesy photo  

 

El Gato Azul Owner Committed to Community Service, Philanthropy

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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 “Dancing for the Stars” to raise money for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona.

Barbe says the singular purpose for what has become a popular community event is to generate income to support life-altering programs for youth in the Quad Cities area. “I want to do my part to help the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Arizona provide a safe and positive environment for six- to 18-year-old children all through the year.”

Barbe said he and his professional dance partner, Carie Hughes, will join nine other couples in dancing.

Last year, Dancing for the Stars raised about $220,000 for the charitable organization. Barbe hopes this year will result in even more.

Barbe, who owns and often serves as chef in the acclaimed El Gato Azul restaurant at 316 W. Goodwin in downtown Prescott, is widely known as one of the most generous and community-oriented people in Prescott.

Named “Community Philanthropist of the Year” in 2014 by the local affiliate of the Arizona Community Foundation (ACF), Barbe has been acknowledged by Carol Chamberlain, local ACF administrator, as an exceptionally generous community member.

That is evidenced by Barbe’s membership on many of the non-profit boards where he has served or is serving, including the ACF, Prescott Habitat for Humanity, the Coalition for Compassion and Justice (CCJ), the Sunrise Lion’s Club and others.

Barbe is described by many of his close associates as always smiling and positive in his outlook about the community. “We who are lucky enough to live in the Prescott area are blessed to have a genuinely caring community surrounding us. The spirit I find throughout the area is inspiring to me,” he said.

Barbe says he wishes he could do more. “I take a look at what some of the non-profit organizations and their leaders do – people like Jessie Hans at CCJ, Brad Newman with Yavapai Exceptional Industries, Diane Iverson and Fritzi Mevis at People Who Care and others. Look how Mike Fann, through his in-house charity FEMAD at Fann Contracting, and Becky Ruffner and all she does – and Courtney Osterfelt and Teen Launch Pad. I wish I could do as much as they do. My wife and I are inspired by people who make a positive difference.”

Years ago, the Barbes founded “Gato Gives,” an internal account where employees can contribute funds for various community charities. The Barbes match, dollar for dollar, the money staff members give. Every six months, they and employees sit down to decide what local groups warrant financial support. They then divvy up what they have collected. In 2018, “Gato Gives” distributed more than $11,000.

“I grew up in a small town in Ohio,” said Barbe. “The attitude was that we all needed to care for our neighbors. It became a part of me, that we are responsible for each other. If we’re a bit more fortunate than some, we need to share what we have.”

Barbe met Lori in 1992 when they were working at a hotel in Hilton Head, South Carolina. He said they both agreed, even then, that when possible they would give a portion of whatever they had to help others.

“We’ve kept that pledge and we’ve been married 25 years.”

A graduate of the highly-acclaimed culinary program at Johnson & Wales University (Providence, Rhode Island), Barbe is genuinely pleased at the support El Gato Azul receives from the public. “We hope when our customers come through the doors, they realize we want to be friendly and provide excellent meals in a pleasant environment. Our niche – emphasis on tapas [light snacks or appetizers] – is intended to create an atmosphere of sharing, caring and communal-style dining. It’s an extension of what Lori and I believe, that we need to look out for others and care and share.”

If you had a million dollars to give away, where would it go?

“That’s easy. My wife and I would start a foundation to support early childhood education.” Lori is the director of the pre-school education program at American Lutheran Church.

What’s the best advice you ever received, and from whom?

“I am inspired by people who lead by example and volunteer to help others. Just observing others who do that is, in a sense, a form of positive advice.”

What characteristic do you admire most in other people? 

“Absolute honesty – in others, and in myself.”

What’s your favorite kind of music? 

Here’s one for you – the Goodwin Street Gang. I’m in a five-piece group, and we perform jazz, standards and contemporary. I also sing tenor.

What’s the best thing about being in Prescott?

“We’re so lucky here to still have locally owned and operated stores and businesses. That helps us sustain the hometown atmosphere that Prescott is so famous for.” QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN

Experienced Aviation Professional Lands Sedona Airport’s General Manager Position

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‘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 experience toward a career in airport management. Plus, she has made the unlikely transition from one mile-high, mesa-top airport with a mile-long runway to another. 

“As a young woman I read ‘West with the Night’ by [noted author/adventurer] Beryl Markham and that really inspired me because she liked horses, dogs and airplanes, like me,” explained Abingdon, who became Sedona Airport’s general manager in July. “She was kind of a heroine of mine.” 

Abingdon started learning to fly in her 20s, but life and work got in the way. Two decades later, she returned to finish what she started near her alma mater – the University of Oregon – in Eugene. As she sat in Sedona Airport’s conference room, which is also the supply room for private jet crews, she explained that she never wanted to fly for a living. “It was always a personal goal. [The scenic Pacific Northwest] was a fabulous place to learn to fly.” 

In search of a better climate after surviving a battle with cancer, she left the verdant coast for the high desert of central New Mexico’s Lincoln County nearly 13 years ago. She continued her flight training at Roswell International Air Center and now holds a Commercial Pilot License with Instrument Rating.  

Looking to do something new professionally, Abingdon landed at Eastern New Mexico University – Roswell, teaching aviation basics at the school’s brand-new air traffic control (ATC) program. “I got hired two weeks before school started, with no curriculum, no materials, nothing. It was a real challenge,” explained Abingdon, who also holds Advanced Ground Instructor and Aircraft Dispatcher licenses. She taught full-time for eight rewarding years before changes in government hiring prompted the college to sign off from teaching ATC.   

Needing a next step, she found a way to parlay her experience, stay in New Mexico and remain in aviation with the manager position at Belén Alexander Regional Airport in 2016. “I typically have pretty good timing,” she said. “I stepped into something really interesting.”  

With state assistance, the airport had recently finished building a new mile-long runway to military specifications, paving the way to a joint use agreement with the Air Force. Located about 30 miles south of Albuquerque’s Kirtland Air Force Base, the upgraded mile-high Belén Airport suited the service branch with its nearby-but-rural environs and its unlit mesa-top airport. This combination makes it optimal for training C-130 transport aircraft pilots in short takeoff/landing and night-vision goggle training at a relatively quiet spot, away from Kirtland’s busy commercial airport neighbor – Albuquerque International Sunport – and without flying nearly 170 miles to Roswell.  

“It saved them millions,” explained Abingdon, who called working with the Air Force a “great experience,” though it meant new coordination and policies for the small airport, including a requirement for radio communications and implementation of an air rescue and firefighting (ARFF) team.  

Running Belén’s modest airport meant she had to wear many hats. “I’d have a day where I’d spend seven hours on the tractor mowing weeds in the dust, so I don’t really miss that,” Abingdon recalled, adding that her main legacy at Belén is the potential arrival of Vertical Limit Aviation, an Albuquerque-based flight school with international contracts.  

If time allowed, she would go out and meet pilots as they gassed up at Belén Airport’s self-serve tanks. This was how she met two pilots from Sedona Airport about 18 months ago. “I thought, ‘I have family in Arizona now and that’s an area I’d consider relocating to,’” she recalled. “I knew it would be a nice area and so I was interested. It would allow me to grow as an airport manager in a little bit of a different environment and get me off the tractor!”  

Abingdon replaced Amanda Shankland as general manager, who is now senior advisor in Public Policy and Government Affairs for the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce. 

Abingdon does not see any unique challenges at Sedona Airport, with many mirroring the area’s ever-increasing popularity. “Expansion is not an option here,” she stated, with any capital improvements of flight facilities geared toward improving safety, efficiency, customer service and community considerations per Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) guidelines.  

She says one of the reasons the intergovernmental Sedona-Oak Creek Airport Authority hired her is because of her diplomacy, citing “wonderful” relations with the city, Yavapai County, and the Sedona Chamber of Commerce. She also works closely with the airport’s “fantastic” and proactively eclectic board of directors.  

Relations with Airport Mesa tenants – including 75 hangar/tie-down renters, Sky Ranch Lodge, Mesa Grill, Sedona Car Rentals, and the air tour companies (Guidance Air, Sedona Air Tours, Westwind Air Service) – are also going well, she said.  

Chef Mercer Mohr’s assumption of Mesa Grill’s operations has been very positive, added Nelson Durkee, the airport’s business manager. “They say they’ve turned the corner and been accepted as part of the Sedona vibe,” he noted, adding that they now cater for private air traffic, provide wedding services, while still offering affordable options at every meal.  

Improvements to the overlook parking lot are planned for the coming months and determining the future of the vacant Masonic Lodge property is on the docket. “We’re working on a project to secure a better fire suppression plan for the mesa,” Abingdon said. “A lot of these initiatives have been on the books for a couple years now. I’m results driven. I have a good team and we’re going to try to get some of them done.” 

Lingering concerns voiced by the community remain. “The noise complaints seem cyclical,” said Durkee. “[The air tour operators] are sticking to routes we’ve suggested they take. We don’t have near the volume of calls that we previously had. They are making the attempt to be better neighbors to our community.”  

Guidance Air’s use of smaller, piston-driven Robinson helicopters aids with noise abatement. Military aircraft operations continue to add to noise concerns. Also of note is the airport’s push to limit unmanned aerial vehicle (drone) use on and around the mesa, with “drone-free zones” signs posted on trails, an online map of where they would like drone use to be limited, and an online notice page to inform the airport of nearby planned drone use. The FAA has established rules and registration mechanisms for drone use, but the airport’s desired limitations go beyond federal rules, somewhat controversially. The airport’s concerns are based on the vast interest in taking aerial photos and video of Sedona’s celebrated scenery, and their desire to avoid any airspace incursions and potential incidents between aircraft.  

Abingdon is eager to continue engaging the community about noise abatement, drone awareness, and all other concerns. She is also excited about each fall’s Airport Day and its historic success in bringing people up to the mesa for a day of aviation-centered fun.  

“We want to be a good neighbor. I like to think of myself as a goodwill ambassador for aviation,” she said. Her flight plan now includes this stop at the nicknamed ‘U.S.S. Sedona.’ She hopes to leave a significant positive legacy here, as she did in Belén. QCBN 

Photo captions: 

Sedona Airport General Manager Deborah Abingdon brings a wealth of experience as a pilot and airport manager to the mile-high airport. 

Photo by Tom Vitron 

 

 

 

Karen Fann is Poised to Lead the State Senate  

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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 opponent Jo Craycroft, 54,952 to 23079 votes. 

 

To add to her victory, Fann was selected by her peers to serve as president of the Arizona Senate in the coming year. That powerful role allows her to control legislation introduced and the selection of committee chairs. 

Fann is well prepared for her influential role. A lifelong Republican, she had been a powerful member of the Arizona House of Representatives, where she was first elected in 2011 and served until she became a senator in 2016.  

Fann told the Quad Cities Business News, “My primary legislative obligation will be to represent not only the people who elected me, but also the greater population of Arizona. We’ve some major issues to be faced at the Capitol. We can’t let partisan politics get in the way of what is best for Arizona.” 

She cites three big concerns ahead. 

One is the prolonged drought and potential water shortages. She says water policy must be revisited and revised to reflect realities of domestic, commercial, industrial and agricultural growth and expansion in Arizona.  

Another is identifying sources and improving sustainable funding for state-supported public education from preschool through the university level. She believes education must become a major priority and the diversion of funds designated for education must be eliminated. 

And, she says, school safety and public safety must be given more attention with students, school personnel, law enforcement and first responders receiving conspicuous support at all levels of government.  

“We’ve got to stop letting politics get in the way of working together and cooperating to create good policy, not partisanship,” she said. “We’ve also got to move forward to assure that rural Arizona is not bypassed in critical legislative action. There’s no reason rural communities can’t cooperate and make sure they are represented respectfully in the legislature.” 

Fann is firm about sticking to her principles in her role at the Senate. “I have two rules I will follow. First, I will respect everyone. Second, I will never blindside someone. I will be honest, ethical and forthright – and I will listen, not ignore.”  

When parents Jim and Sylvia Fann arrived in Prescott in 1958 to raise their four children, the Fanns became prominent in Prescott. Jim Fann is gone, but Sylvia remains in Prescott. Karen’s brother, Mike, is owner and CEO of Fann Contracting. Sister, Sarah Fann Bird, earned a graduate degree, lives in Peoria with her husband and works for a national telemedicine firm.  Her other sister, Gail Fann Thomas, has a doctorate degree, and lives in Monterey, California with her husband. All family members routinely convene in Prescott and contribute in one way or another to their hometown. 

For a short period, the Fann family lived in El Cajon, Calif. While there, Karen completed high school, where she was a musician, athlete and student council member. She also was president of Y-Teens.   

When her family returned to Prescott, she moved to Hawaii as an airline executive. She returned to the mainland to become operations manager for Scenic Airlines in Las Vegas, but soon decided she wanted to return to Prescott. She gained experience as a legal assistant for Yavapai County.  

With just $500, she launched her own business in 1984, Arizona Highway Safety Specialists. In the 34 years since, it has grown into Arizona’s largest installer of roadway guardrails and signage. 

Fann has been married to Jim McKown for 11 years. “Jim and I had met at the Palace Saloon in Prescott and really got along. But when we decided to get married, we went to Hawaii. My immediate family also decided to go to Hawaii for a big family Christmas vacation. It was then Jim and I surprised them by getting married in Kona. What a great time.”  

Among her public contributions:   

  • 1992-95Prescott City Council and Mayor Pro Tem; also Northern Arizona Council of Governments; 
  • 2002-2009Town of Chino Valley Council and Mayor;  
  • 2011-2016Arizona House of Representatives, District 1, where she served on major legislative committees. 

Fann’s dedication to her responsibilities is legendary. In 1992, she broke her pelvis in five places while in Telluride, Colorado, and was hospitalized in Montrose until she was transported to Yavapai Regional Medical Center. Just days later, she attended a Prescott City Council meeting on crutches. 

She has received more than 35 awards while a state legislator, including Legislator of the Year, Leader in Public Policy of the Year, Woman of the Year, Best Elected Republican Representative and Senator of the Year.  

 

What the best advice you ever received? 

“Brad Newman, longtime executive director for Yavapai Exceptional Industries, looked me straight in the eye when I first ran for office. He said, ‘Always be true to yourself.’  I’ve always tried to follow it.” 

Where’s your favorite place to vacation? 

“No doubt about that – Kona, Hawaii, where Jim and I got married. And great golf.” 

What’s your favorite form of entertainment? 

“Reading a good book – like some of John Grisham’s – or watching a good movie. I just enjoy escaping to another world.” 

When’s your best time of day? 

“Anytime I am with friends. They are what really count.” 

What character trait do you admire the most? 

“Honesty. I can have differences and disagreements with people, but I hate being lied to. Just tell me the truth.” QCBN 

 By Ray Newton, QCBN 

Photo captions: 

Arizona District 1 Senator Karen Fann was re-elected to the Arizona legislature by a more than two-to-one margin in the Nov. 5 election. Fann has been named president of the Arizona Senate for the coming year.   

Courtesy photo