The smell of the junipers in the morning and the coolness of the evening breeze told me Prescott Valley could be home. Driving into town for the first time, I felt the mountains’ protective embrace and a familiarity that whispered, “You belong.” I came to Prescott Valley with nothing but a dream and the determination to make it real. Starting my cleaning business, Prescott Maid to Order, wasn’t just a decision but a necessity. Life had its storms, and I had weathered many of them. But with each … [Read more...] about Embraced By Community: A Journey of Hardship and Triumph
Humans Will Challenge Horses for the Fortieth Year
On Oct. 19, for the 40th year, long distance runners and horse/rider teams will hoof it to the top of Mingus Mountain and back in the grueling Man Against Horse 50-mile race, a historic Prescott area “best kept secret.” Look for race favorites to return for the anniversary event, including four-time winner Kim Abbott with her Arabian horse “Goat,” and runners for whom this race has become a favorite. The Man Against Horse Race was founded in 1983 when Prescott runner and City Councilmember … [Read more...] about Humans Will Challenge Horses for the Fortieth Year
A Dog Can Help You Get Moving
If you’re like me and not a huge fan of exercise, I’ve got a simple solution: Get a dog! Before I adopted Cassidy Roo 8 ½ years ago, exercise wasn’t a big part of my life. Now, walking has become a daily ritual, and I genuinely love it – Cassidy Roo does too! According to the Mayo Clinic, we should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week, which can include a mix of moderate and vigorous exercises. The best part? Walking counts as moderate physical activity, making it … [Read more...] about A Dog Can Help You Get Moving
When Do Construction Projects Need Special Inspections?
Welcome to “At Home with Tom & Sandy.” We are here to give you the inside scoop and tips on everything A to Z for your home and the community. Tom and I love talking with our readers. Settle in, enjoy, and have fun reading our column this month. Thanks for being such loyal and great readers. Sandy: Hi Tom, I have a super topic for this month’s discussion: Special inspections. Tom: Sounds great! I don’t think most folks know about this. It would be great to relay the when, why and … [Read more...] about When Do Construction Projects Need Special Inspections?
Reasons Why Homeowners Refinance Their Mortgage Loan
In simple terms, refinancing is the process of replacing your existing mortgage with a new mortgage that has more favorable terms. This might be done for a number of reasons, the most common being to lower your interest rate. When interest rates fall, homeowners sometimes have the opportunity to refinance an existing loan for another loan with a shorter term. This loan, without much change in the monthly payment, can save homeowners a sizable amount of interest in the long term with the … [Read more...] about Reasons Why Homeowners Refinance Their Mortgage Loan
Top Ten Berries for Container Gardens
Those new to gardening are surprised at the bountiful crops berry plants produce. Local berry bushes are even more consistent fruit bearers than fruit trees and are easier to grow. Simply plant them into the ground where at least six hours of bright, hot sun are guaranteed, add them to the drip system with your other trees and shrubs, and wait for the berry harvest! Even more impressive is that berry plants don’t need to be in the ground at all. Containers are a great way to enjoy berry bushes … [Read more...] about Top Ten Berries for Container Gardens
The Family Resource Center: Thirty-Five Years of Healthier Families
It’s a rare and exciting opportunity when we are presented with a chance to improve our community for generations to come. Thirty-five years ago, a small, grassroots group of like-minded citizens of Prescott, Arizona, was given that opportunity. Little did they know that future generations would continue to benefit from their concern for our children and their vision for our community’s future. First Steps: Beyond Medical Care The group included teachers, social workers, parents and … [Read more...] about The Family Resource Center: Thirty-Five Years of Healthier Families
Report Reinforces Positive Economic Trend
Yavapai County is experiencing positive employment trends, according to a recent report released by the Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity (OEO). In June, the county observed a notable 1.3% year-over-year increase in employment, adding approximately 900 new jobs to the local economy. This growth brings the total employment level in Yavapai County to 70,400, signaling ongoing economic resilience and expansion in the region. The report also sheds light on the average weekly wage across all … [Read more...] about Report Reinforces Positive Economic Trend
Prescott Traffic: Congestion, Improvement, Enforcement
During the past year, the City of Prescott has invested in ways to help our citizens move their vehicles more efficiently along some of our major roads. In 2023, we conducted a traffic study to help us better understand how vehicles are moving around the city. This data helped us develop methodologies and employ new traffic detection and signal timing technology to keep traffic moving efficiently. This new technology is designed to help drivers who are moving at posted speeds encounter more … [Read more...] about Prescott Traffic: Congestion, Improvement, Enforcement
How Community Foundations Can Impact Affordable Housing
Affordable housing is a critical issue facing communities across the United States, with impact felt macroeconomically, and for individuals and families seeking a place to call home. To confront the issue head on, many civic and governmental entities are addressing the full housing continuum, from keeping people in their homes to addressing homelessness. This comprehensive approach involves multiple strategies to ensure that everyone has access to safe, affordable and attainable housing. A … [Read more...] about How Community Foundations Can Impact Affordable Housing