Howdy Partners!

A visiting wrangler from New Mexico sat with me on the deck of the Jersey Lilly Saloon Sunday, sipping a brew and watching Dogtoberfest spill over the Plaza (more dogs than humans, I'll wager) when he told me he never comes to Prescott without his camera.

I understood. This Prescott Cowgirl carries hers nearly everywhere, everyday, because we have such beautiful light in our mountain city and even on the rare days there's not an event in historic downtown Prescott, there's always a beguiling Kodak moment. I start this blog with two from our Yavapai County Courthouse Plaza--one I call Autumn Rose and the other, our Bubbling Fountain at Noon. Beauty.

Speaking of beauty, the grounds of Sharlot Hall Museum are always photo-worthy, but you'll find even more this Saturday and Sunday at the 31st Annual Folk Music Festival--our state's oldest continual folk music gathering.

This year more than 150 of the state's best folk music performers will deliver a wide-ranging array of styles, including our State Historian and well-revered musician/humorist Marshall Trimble, pictured here. Other groups such as Howlin' at the Moon, Prescott Playboys and others join soloist Katie Lee who celebrates her 90th birthday on Saturday!

Come delight to great folk music amidst the shaded grounds daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and take in some workshops in dulcimers, mandolin, musical saws, and more. An instrument swap meet Sunday and impromptu jam sessions add to the fun.

Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for members and free for children under 18. And kids aren't forgotten with family-friendly music including the Super Silliest Band!

Two more incredible deals for duffers have been announced. First: now through October 15, two people playing golf at StoneRidge Golf Course stay free at the less-than-year-old Comfort Suites in Prescott Valley where each of the 100 suites have double queen or king beds, refrigerator, microwave, other amenities and provide a hot breakfast and wireless Internet.

And, as the infomercial kings love to say, "Wait! There's More!"
Book your room and golf Sunday through Thursday and you pay only $69 each (plus tax) which includes practice balls and golf cart equipped with GPS. The 7,052 yard, par-72 StoneRidge is stunning with its ponderosa and pinon pines, native grasses and granite rock formations and more than a 350 foot elevation change. This will go fast, so call StoneRidge now for your Stay Free/Golf for Less package at 928-772-6500.

And then, from now through October 31, enjoy "Golf and Grill"-- 18 holes of golf and breakfast or lunch from the StoneRidge Grill-- you select from the menu. Sunday through Friday is only $39.95; Saturday $49.95, plus tax. Please mention Golf and Grill and The Prescott Cowgirl when you call for reservations.

Also don't forget the ongoing golf deal at Antelope Hills Golf Course: free golf for two with the purchase of two or more nights (double occupancy) at 13 area hotels. Follow this link to learn more.  

October and pumpkins just go together, and Chino Valley's Pumpkin Festival is a wondrous way to ease into the fall season.

Every Saturday and Sunday throughout October at Windmill Farms at JC Ranch in Chino Valley, thousands of visitors troop to celebrate fall in this beautiful rural setting. In its third year, it includes family activities like tractor hay rides, a petting zoo, pie eating contests, pumpkin painting contests, arts and crafts, food, beverages, live music, dancing and more. Cost is only $2, or $5 for an all-day (9:00 am to 5:00 pm) events pass. For more information, phone 928-899-3561 or go online to www.jcranchaz.com. JC Ranch is located at 1460 West Road 4 North in Chino Valley and Windmill Farms has numerous lakeside walking paths to further enjoy the day.

Fall also brings out the bargains--and the beautiful and award-winning Pleasant Street Inn Bed & Breakfast in historic downtown Prescott is offering a free third night with a two-night stay in their Terrace Suite with private deck or the luxurious Pine View Suite with fireplace shown here. Owner/Innkeeper Jeanne Watkins is making this valid every day through Nov. 15 so book now for a romantic getaway in one of Arizona's 10 Best B & B's (Phoenix Magazine), an easy walk to the Plaza, surrounding shops, restaurants and Sharlot Hall Museum. For more info on Pleasant Street, visit their website at www.PleasantBandB.com or phone 877-226-7128.

At Prescott Valley's Civic Center is an ongoing and extraordinary art exhibit few locals know about--the Solon H. Borglum sculpture display. If you're a fan of the iconic Captain Buckey O'Neill sculpture on the Yavapai County Courthouse Plaza done by Borglum, brother to Mount Rushmore sculptor Gutzon Borglum, you'll enjoy this display, from finely-crafted bronze sculptures to plaster models on the four floors of PVCC. Expect to see some other of his works in the new Prescott Valley Public Library to be dedicated Saturday, Oct. 10 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. The Prescott Valley Civic Center is at 7501 Civic Circle.

 

Until We Meet Again,

 Happy Trails!

 

 

The Prescott Cowgirl

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As you may know, the City of Prescott was founded by a delegation of Eastern politicians selected by President Abraham Lincoln to establish the first capital of the newly-established Arizona Territory.

This weekend, like so many others, our founders would be proud of the art and culture that is modern Prescott. We've got a weekend no one should miss--especially you!

Though the name is new this year, the Thumb Butte Festival is in its fifth season. Sponsored by the Prescott Area Arts & Humanities Council, this is a two-day celebration of all arts.

Not by coincidence, the event, billed as "Prescott's Premier Art & Heritage Celebration" starts Friday night at 6:00 pm during the 4th Friday Art Walk (more about this below,) with the period-dressed Elks Opera House Guild members and Rio Flamenco performing on the Courthouse Plaza.

Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm is a salute to all arts--dance, crafts, culinary, written word, heritage and other art forms like painting, sculpture, jewelry, photography, etc. with galleries, museums and artist studios open to visitors. A map and complete list of venues is available online at www.prescottarts.org.

This newly-named collaboration of all things artistic was the result of brainstorming following last year's successful artist studio tour.

"We decided to open it up to all forms of art and to our surprise, by bringing all types of groups together, we've enjoyed a successful cross-promotion that makes the event even more interesting," said Deborah Thurston, the event's planner/organizer.

Prescott's newest art gallery, ‘Tis, offers an example of the varied arts available this weekend. In addition to five artists demonstrating in the gorgeous third floor banquet/ballroom with its floor-to-ceiling windows, pictured here during a class with artist Jorge Moreno, the Prescott Premier Catering culinary artists will offer for purchase petite appetizer plates of hors d'oeuvres and desserts. Photographer Chris Marchetti will shoot candid and portrait shots Saturday from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm and the well-dressed Buscadaros and Elks Opera House Guild will also be on hand, with the Guild returning from 1:00 to 3:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday.

This variety is repeated throughout town at artist studios like the Fiddling Potter Studio (206 S. Arizona), where live Celtic and folk music jams will meld with the art of local art teachers Yvonne Holland and Lisa Kaiser, joined by wood sculptor Will Van der Hayden.

Marking Thumb Butte Festival, Sharlot Hall Museum is featuring Navajo flutist and flute-maker Michael Goodluck, and two fine-art exhibits including "The Baskets Keep Talking" (pictured). Saturday, they're also participating in the fifth annual Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day, offering free admission to visitors presenting a Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day Admission Card. The card, available in the September issue of Smithsonian Magazine, is available for download free on their website.

As mentioned, this weekend steps off on Friday, which is also the 4th Friday Art Walk in historic downtown Prescott. This is a local's favorite festive event with numerous art galleries open later hours and offering refreshments and music. At Huckeba Art Gallery (227 W. Gurley), Jill and Charles Huckeba, (pictured here), are kicking the weekend up a notch with a highly unusual sale--their first in five years--that has some art discounted 30 to 80%. Friday night, count on being serenaded by Charles, a painter of contemporary rock art who additionally rocks his guitar.

Also Friday from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at The Art Store (109 S. Granite Street), multiple Emmy-winning artist Bret Blevins, a former Marvel and DC Comics artist now an animated film freelance storyboard artist and painter, will conduct free demonstrations.

There are just so many exceptional activities during our Thumb Butte Festival to list, so please see the website www.prescottarts.org for additional details.

The Prescott Public Library might not be what you'd think of as a destination for visitors, but you'd be surprised! Besides its wonderful Friends of the Library book sale area and growing number of art works inside and out, there's now the mural "Beyond Words." Under the direction of artists/creators and Prescott Downtown Mural Project co-founders R.E. Wall and Maggie Dewar (pictured here), the mural project has involved more than 800 residents (aka Mural Mice). This Saturday at 7:30 pm is the mural dedication, preceded at 6:00 pm by the Mural Mice Play. Under Dewar direction, a large cast of local adults and children in elaborate costumes will depict some of the historic moments painted on the mural. The performance is free.

This weekend is also the first time the Raw Spirit Festival, a Sedona staple, will be in Prescott. Known as "the world's leading raw vegan-eco-peace celebration," Raw Spirit Festival is Saturday and Sunday at Watson Lake Park. You may not know that the head office of Raw Spirit is here in Prescott. They've held two other successful festivals this year in Santa Barbara, California and Washington D.C. and have another upcoming in Maui. Festival founder and president Happy Oasis (pictured), production manager Nikk Stevers and marketing head Aryn LaBrake are all Prescott residents.

The Prescott Alternative Transportation presents their Pedals & Pumps Gala Saturday, a tribute to those who've supported a bicycle and pedestrian-friendly community. Dinner and live entertainment are included and all proceeds support their ecologically-sound goals. For more information see www.PrescottBikePed.org.

Looking forward to seeing you in Prescott and the surrounding area this weekend!

 

 

 

Until then, Happy Trails!
The Prescott Cowgirl

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Howdy Partners, and welcome to a week of varied activities ranging from Corvette shows, Prescott Valley's Biggest Yard Sale in Town, fantastic art at Yavapai Community College, and a Christmas in September fundraiser!

As you probably know, Prescott is known as "Arizona's Christmas City," and our 55th annual Courthouse Plaza Lighting--ablaze with a million lights strung up and around trees, the imposing courthouse columns and twinkling from windows of businesses and stores ringing the plaza--is an outward sign of the spirit of the season.

This Saturday, Sep. 19 is your opportunity to help continue this holiday tradition by attending the inaugural Christmas in September Gala at the historic Hassayampa Inn. Your $100 ticket not only gives you a "Tour of America" gourmet food tasting, but the opportunity to win the grand prize of $5,000, and up to 50 other prizes, among them vacation getaways and a year's membership to the Downtown Athletic Club.

Entertainment includes the Arizona Revue and rooftop dancing.

Car enthusiasts and lovers of fine lines will appreciate this Saturday's Historic Prescott All-Corvette Car Show from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. Sponsored by the Prescott Vette Set, up to 200 Corvettes will be parked along Cortez and Goodwin Streets. This is the third year for this show, and be sure to enter to win lunch at one of the surrounding Prescott restaurants and other prizes! Proceeds are earmarked for the Stepping Stones Agencies of Prescott Valley, now in their 29th year.

Speaking of Prescott Valley, if you're into bargains, you don't want to miss the Biggest Yard Sale in Town this Saturday at Tim's Toyota Center, (3201 Main St, Prescott Valley). This is the first year of this event, and booths are located inside and out. There are numerous nonprofits hoping to raise funds, including the Prescott Valley Charter School's Archery Club and Bradshaw Mountain High School freshman cheerleader Jaclyn Ogden (shown here) who was selected to march with other cheerleaders from throughout the U.S. in Houston's 60th Thanksgiving Day Parade. There's surely a "treasure" there with your name on it!

This Prescott Cowgirl likes to advise you about upcoming events, but I must thank you all for making last weekend's Annual Yard Sale at Sharlot Hall Museum a rip-roaring success! This decade-old event has proved to be so popular, this year it was extended to two days.

"Three years ago we netted $700, last year we did $3,700 and this year $6,000," said the museum's Karen Churchill, who lauded the 64 volunteers who helped set up and conduct the sale. Any items left over were donated to the Prescott Public Library and Habitat for Humanity. Funds raised go to help with educational opportunities and training of the always-knowledgeable volunteers who help in various capacities.

Looking to the stars is what the Prescott Astronomy Club's Lakeside Stargazing is all about. The new season begins Saturday Sep. 19 at Watson Lake Park, from 5:30 to 8:00 pm. You needn't have your own telescope; the club's members are happy to share theirs, but if you have one, tune-ups start at 5:30. If clear skies prevail this Saturday, you'll see Galileo's Moons, Pegasus, globular star clusters, an active star-forming area known as an emission nebula and the GendlerM, shown here. You're encouraged to bring the kids! For more information on the Club and upcoming events including their Third Thursday Star Talks at Prescott Public Library, see www.prescottastronomyclub.org.

You have just a few days left to see a fabulous collection of art at the Yavapai Community College's Art Faculty Exhibition on display at the Yavapai College Art Gallery. More than 44 works from 16 Yavapai College professors and adjunct professors reveal further talent from this faculty. See exceptionally fine woodworking, ceramics, fiber, painting, photography and jewelry. The gallery is open Wednesdays until 7:00 pm and 10:00 am to 3:00 pm Thursday and Friday when the exhibition ends.

Learn a bit more about Prescott this Saturday with the Living History Presentations at the Fort Whipple Museum on the Veteran's Administration Hospital campus, building 11. Among the presenters sharing historical anecdotes from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm is Sharlot Hall's chief curator Mick Woodcock, an Arizona native who's been studying about life in the late 19th century Arizona Territory for more than 40 years.

Admission is by donation. Find out more at www.sharlot.org.

Looking ahead, you'll want to plan now to attend the 5th Annual Thumb Butte Festival--Prescott's premier art & heritage celebration--September 26th & 27th. The full weekend of events is hosted by the Prescott Area Arts & Humanities Council, and kicks off Friday at 6:00 pm on the Courthouse Plaza as part of the 4th Friday Art Walk. We'll tell you all about it next week, but in the meantime visit www.prescottarts.org. This is a very special weekend we hope you won't miss!

Also on the 26th, Sharlot Hall Museum is participating in the fifth annual Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day by offering free admission to anyone presenting a Museum Day Admission Card from their September issue, or presenting a downloadable version, available to the general public.

Until I see you ‘round the Plaza or at one of these events, happy trails to you!

 

 

 

 

The Prescott Cowgirl

 

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Howdy Partners! Labor Day has come and gone, but Prescott and the surrounding environs has plenty going on year-round, and this weekend is "proof in the puddin'," as my favorite ranch hand likes to say!

This Saturday, join us for the Town of Prescott Valley's Seventh Annual World Arts Festival. This year, in addition to the day-long family fun and frivolity and special entertainment (that includes some recording star impersonators straight from Las Vegas), they're hoping to make the record books!

Held on the Civic Center grounds next to their new Library building, area residents are encouraged to be a part of an attempt to make the Guinness Book of World Records with the largest single piece of art created by the most number of artists - and that includes you!

According to Patricia Chalcraft of the Arts & Culture division of the PV Parks and Rec department, a 40 by 60 foot canvas will be readied on the grassy lawn where folks (encouraged to wear swimsuits or something washable) can dip their fingers, toes, etc. in pools of washable tempura, then make their art mark on the canvas anytime from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Do come early to register, as all participants will be documented for Guinness.

Prescott Valley's World Arts Festival is known for its fine variety of day-long entertainment - like Michael Reed's Blues Band, Sky Daddy and the Pop Rocks, and the Yellowbird Indian Dancers - but this Saturday the line-up is kicked up a notch with the appearance of Las Vegas celebrity impersonators "Elvis and the Legends of Rock n' Roll," including "Elton John" and "Tina Turner," all of whom present 45-minute concerts each. Check that out at 5:00 pm.

And then there's the Prescott Valley Art Guild's Juried Show and Sale inside the Civic Center, and the Kite Making Contest and Make-and-Take tent for kids. Just too much to list, so grab the family and stay the day because there's plenty of fun, food and drink so you won't even need to leave the grounds!

Barbeque lovers, this is your weekend as the inaugural Prescott BBQ Days draws in professionals and amateurs to cook up some tasty morsels in an officially sanctioned Arizona Triple Crown BBQ event.

The Prescott Sun-Up Rotary is behind this new venture and their hearts and wallets are in the right place as proceeds will go to a wealth of local charities. According to Rotary member Jeff Sawyer, who is also co-owner of Jube's Firehouse BBQ, the response from professional BBQ competitors to this first event has been exceptional.

True to Rotary values, Sawyer said this was established to be a family event and thus kids 12 and under get in free Saturday.

"We're hoping parents would spend a little time with the kids and cook together," he said, speaking of Saturday's Kids-Q Competition from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm and the 10:00 am to 3:00 pm Backyard Throw-Down (for adults). "They can work hand-in-hand together."

The Friday night kick-off includes a Steak/Chicken dinner, music by Prescott favorites "The Cheek Tones" (shown here) and the "Bean & Anything Butt" competition. Tickets are $20.

Prescott Rodeo Grounds gates open Saturday at 10:30 and festival goers will be treated to live music, a Kids Fun Zone, professional and amateur BBQ competitions and the 11:00 am to 4:00 pm Taster's Choice sampling. Adult tickets are only $6 and include an event t-shirt. For more information, visit www.prescottbbqdays.com. Let's go support a great new and mouthwatering event that benefits some fine non-profits!!

Duffers, just as I promised last week - here's a deal you and yours will want to take advantage of - free golf amidst the sweet scented pines of Prescott! Book a two-night stay (Sunday through Wednesday nights) now through Oct. 28 at one of thirteen of our finest area hotels, B & Bs and Guest Cottages, and enjoy a free round of golf for two at Antelope Hills Golf Course.

Of course you can stay longer, and you may want to when you play these two 18-hole championship courses - designed by Lawrence Hughes and Gary Panks, respectively. Then there's the adjoining Manzanita Grille where breakfast, lunch and dinner are giant steps above most golf course fare thanks to Chef Joel Sagahara. Click here for more information.

Sunday, Sept. 13, from 3:00 to 7:00 pm, the Prescott Jazz Society, Inc. presents another fine Art N Jazz Patio Show hosted by the Residence Inn by Marriott (Highway 69 across from Costco). Prescott's own Cannon Fire Quartet (with Milt Cannon, PJS director, shown here) will be joined by pianist, singer and composer Rachel Eckroth, one of the Valley of the Sun's most in-demand performers, and art by Michael Little will be exhibited.

Admission is $15, $24 for couples, $10 for members with free refreshments, cash bar and raffle prizes. Should you wish, you can apply your admission to the $35 annual fee and become a Prescott Jazz Society member. More info: www.pjazz.org.

 

 

See you ‘round the Plaza and ‘round Prescott!

 

Until then, Happy Trails!

The Prescott Cowgirl

 

 

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Howdy All! Yep, our calendars may say September, but we know Mother Nature has her own idea of when fall starts, and she says it's still summer, as Valley temperatures readily reflect. 

So if you'd like a break from the heat, take some advice from the Prescott Cowgirl and come on up to mile-high Prescott, where this weekend we're celebrating Labor Day with our Faire on the Square and the Chino Valley Territorial Days.

And, starting next week, the good folks at a dozen local hotels and B & Bs are offering you a free round of golf for two at our beautiful Antelope Hills Golf Course when you stay two nights or more.

This is a deal I'm proud to share with you, and I hope you can take advantage of it!

All the details are being finalized, but I'll give you a hint: book two or more nights, Sunday through Wednesday (from Sept. 7 through Oct. 28), and you can enjoy savings for your stay and FREE GOLF! As they used to say on the cowboy shows: tune in next week, Partners!

There's a lot going on this Labor Day weekend in beautiful Chino Valley at their Territorial Days Celebration.

And plenty of history here--from the 23rd annual Territorial parade at 9:30 Saturday morning to the 61st annual F.F.A. Corn dinner from 3:00 to 7:00 pm.

Saturday gets off to a running start at 6:00 am with the 11th Annual Territorial 10K and 2 mile fun run at Memory Park (I never run two miles for fun but some folks sure do!)

Also from 6:00 to 9:30 am is Chino Valley's Lions Club Pancake breakfast held at the Senior Center.

For nearly two decades, these dedicated Lions Club members have gathered before dawn to prepare this breakfast that benefits local charities. On hand this year is 200 pounds of ham, 100 pounds of pancake mix and more than 40 gallons of orange juice, not to mention the pounds of coffee. Tasty, tasty, trust me!

Meanwhile, over at Yavapai College Agribusiness & Science Technology Center (at 2275 Old Home Manor Drive), you'll find the two-day High Plains Adventure starting with the 4D Barrel Race and Youth Gymkhana starting at 1:00 pm. You'll find a plethora of fun things to see and do including goat tying contests, dummy roping, horseshoeing demos, hydroponics workshop and an educational petting zoo. Competitions for kids 3 to 18 have nominal fees but the rest, including parking, is free.

Saturday afternoon from 3:00 to 7:00 pm marks the 61st annual Chino Valley F.F.A. Alumni Corn Dinner, held at Del Rio School.

Sunday, 8:30 am to 3:00 pm is the Yavapai College English and Western Horse Show, held at their new equestrian center. Again, admission and parking is free. Find more information on www.chinovalley.org and www.yc.edu/HPA.

Back in Prescott, it's time for our 24th annual Faire on The Square, a three-day arts and crafts show at which each item has been made or significantly embellished by the artists.

Strolling under the towering shade trees of the Prescott Courthouse Plaza, you'll find everything from art to clothing to home décor at one of the finest arts and craft shows of the season. Actually, I like the way Festivals.com said it: "One of the most outstanding in the Southwest!"

Making that happen are artist families, like Mel and Lucy Mendez of Prescott Valley, who will display their hand-loomed Zapotec woven rugs. Besides colorful displays like that shown here, they also demonstrate weaving on their wooden loom.

One of Prescott's more famous monikers is "Everybody's Hometown" and those of us living here know it's more than a catchy slogan.

Case in point is Saturday's Fundraiser event at Coyote Joe's (214 S. Montezuma St.) to help the family of Jonathan Green, a 27-year-old student suffering from bone cancer which metastasized, requiring the amputation of his left leg. His mother, Prescott resident Deborah Renee needs to be by her son's side at U.C. Davis, but as a self-employed woman, she can't afford time off and still pay her bills.

Enter Coyote Joe's and numerous local businesses who've donated gift certificates and merchandise for a silent auction and raffle Saturday. The restaurant/bar is open to all ages until 6:00 pm, then 21 and older only. The event ends at 8:00 pm, so stop in and help a neighbor.

And don't forget Saturday at Newman Gallery on Montezuma for the premiere "Los Tres Artisanos," featuring folk art by Dawn Elliott, jewelry by R.D. (Bubba) Shackelford, and gallery owner and Prescott artist Dave Newman with his renowned mixed media and paintings (ever see his wall-size piece at The Palace?). Refreshments on hand and a raffle by each artist means you will want to mosey in between 3:00 and 8:00 pm!

Looking ahead: next week's inaugural Prescott BBQ Days is shaping up to be a tasty time. Sponsored by the Sunup Rotary Club and held on the Prescott Rodeo grounds, this is a family event with contests for kids and adults. Friday is a dinner dance, while Saturday is the day for amateurs and professionals to show us their best barbeque!

Check out www.prescottbbqdays.com for more information, and know I'll give you a look "behind the scenes" next week.

 

 

 

     Until then, Happy Trails!

        The Prescott Cowgirl

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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JAZZ!

America's original art form is celebrated this weekend at the 9th annual Prescott Jazz Summit, starting with a free noon-hour concert Friday on the Prescott Courthouse Plaza.

The sound of music will continue at various venues in Prescott through Sunday afternoon.

Friday night epitomizes the Summit's core commitment with the Scholarship Fundraising Dinner with the Musicians at 5:30 pm, held at the historic Hassayampa Inn. It's followed by Festive Night at the Hassayampa, with music resounding in the Arizona and Marina ballrooms.

Saturday afternoon from 1:00 to 4:30, enjoy the musicians of tomorrow at jazz clinics and workshops for teen musicians at the Ruth Street Theater.

Few folks realize how the annual Jazz Summit benefits young area musicians, raising funds for local high school music departments.

"We give at least a few hundred dollars to each area schools every year," said Summit director (and performer) Mike Vax, speaking of donations made to Prescott High School music and drama department, and both Chino Valley High School and Bradshaw Mountain High School's music departments. "I think locally we've given $15,000 over the years directly to schools or through scholarships."

 

Vax also said more than 800 music students had been tutored by Jazz Summit professional musicians at no cost to them or their schools. Pictured here is musician Reggie Thomas with workshop students.

 

Saturday night's 7:30 Gala Concert at Ruth Street Theater featuring Prescott's own Toni Tennille and the All-Star Band is nearly completely sold out but worth a try for tickets just in case, but there's another opportunity to meet and greet musicians at Sunday morning's Jazz Brunch at the Hassayampa with seating at 9:30 am or 12:15 pm.

This year's Jazz Summit climax is the 2:30 pm Sunday afternoon concert at Mile High Middle School's Hendrix auditorium, where all attendees 18 and under are admitted free!

Vax, soon to be a full-time Prescott resident, has gathered a stellar line-up of internationally-known jazz musicians again this year and any of these venues will showcase some of the finest jazz around. For more information on tickets, visit www.prescottjazz.com.

No doubt when you've visited historic Prescott, you've admired and perhaps wondered about the history behind some of the wonderful Nob Hill mansions, the Whiskey Row establishments, the 1927 Hassayampa Inn and other sites.

Well, it's easy to learn a lot more when you take one of the free Historic Downtown Walking Tours, Friday through Sundays at 10:00 am (except for weekends, when festivals occur on the Plaza like the upcoming Faire on the Square Sep. 5-7 and the Fallfest in The Park, Oct. 10 & 11) when the tour is Friday mornings only.

Sponsored by the Prescott Chamber of Commerce, the 90 minute historic walking tours are led by Sharlot Hall Museum trained guides--like Jerri Olson, pictured here--who know the interesting if often odd tidbits on history of local hotels, historic buildings and even the crosswalk on Whiskey Row and the plaque to "Friendly Dog Mike" on the courthouse lawn.

Call ahead or drop by the Chamber office at 117 W. Goodwin Street to learn more about the free tours-informative and fun for visitors and hometown folk, too! Tours continue through Oct. 25.

With summer's close at hand, it's a perfect time for a Beach Party and the Prescott Valley Entertainment District is happy to oblige. This Saturday from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm is the Fourth Annual Beach Party, and like years past, more than 200 tons of sand is imported and water features incorporated to make Main Street beachy-keen.

Contests like the Redneck Tan Line, the Bikini Contest for Tiny People (babies!) and the Hairy Leg Contest add to the hilarity of the day-providing fun and entertainment for the whole family. Special guest Mac Daddy presents a concert from 6:00 to 9:00 pm.

Also at the Entertainment District Saturday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm is the very forward-looking Creative Energy Fair Kickoff with Prescott Valley-based NEST engineering's portable solar/wind generator not only on display but working to provide power to supply music and pop popcorn! Representatives from APS, Home Depot and local contractors will be on hand to answer questions about solar and wind power and how to adapt it for home use. The Creative Energy Fair is Saturday, Sep. 26 at Tim's Toyota Center.

Speaking of looking ahead: next weekend is Chino Valley's Territorial Capital Days with a passel of events including the 23rd Annual Territorial Capital Days Parade at 9:30 am Saturday. We'll be tellin' you a lot more about this in next week's blog, including a bit on the history behind the 61st annual F.F.A. Alumni Corn Dinner, held Saturday afternoon from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m.

 

Until then, friends, Happy Trails!
The Prescott Cowgirl

 *Beach Party photo courtesy of Stew Schrauger

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If ever there was a weekend to round up the friends, family and yes, even the little doggies and head to Prescott, it's this one! We've got everything from Shakespeare to the latest in aircraft, brass quintets to bull riding, jazz and all things artistic.

Let's begin with Saturday's Acker on the Plaza--a full day of music performed simultaneously on different stages on and around the Plaza, naturally cooled for summer by the shade of our towering trees. Even better--it's a benefit for Prescott High School Band's London New Year's Day Parade trip.

You'll enjoy a lot of local favorites like the PHS Band, The Prescott Playboys, (pictured here with 11-year-old fiddler whiz kid Johan ‘Bix' Glidden of Prescott); Fireridge Blue Grass Band; Arizona Old Time Fiddlers; Sky Daddy & The Pop Rocks, and performances by the Prescott Independent Theater group. Check their website for the full line-up at www.ackershowcase.com. Great fun for all from 10 am to 10 pm!

The nonprofit J.S. Acker Music Park Association hosts their 21st Annual Holiday Musical Showcase Dec. 11.

And let's back our horses up a night because you can't miss Friday on the Plaza when the Yavapai College Brass Quintet performs for the last Fabulous Friday, closing a summer choc-full of great musical and artistic entertainment. Prescott Downtown Partnership is holding a joint fundraiser with the Prescott Chamber of Commerce on  Sep. 19 for the 55th Annual Courthouse Lighting, aptly named "Christmas in September." See more at www.prescottdowntown.com and www.prescott.org.

But I digress. The Brass Quintet, which includes Yavapai Community College math professor David Holbrook and Roy Breiling, Director of Instrumental Music, have a line-up of light jazz and popular patriotic numbers. Show starts at 7 pm so pull up a lawn chair and enjoy!

The Arizona Shakespeare 2009 tour has three free shows this weekend in Prescott--performing "Much Ado About Nothing" at Prescott College Friday,7:30 pm; Saturday, 7 pm at Granite Peak Unitarian, and 5 pm Sunday on the Plaza. This is Prescott's homegrown theatre group, founded here in 1998 by theatre veterans Kelly Johnston and Tracey Mason. Their first Shakespeare Festival was held on the Courthouse Plaza 11 years ago! Now in their second year of a touring statewide, they'll take Shakespeare to 20 cities through October, leaving a flock of fans in their wake! More at www.AZShakes.com.

Professional Bull Riding comes to Prescott Saturday night for the 2009 Cowboy Capital Professional Bull Riding competition at 7:30 at the Prescott Rodeo Grounds. Some of the country's top PBR riders are competing in their race to racking up points for the World Finals in Las Vegas in late October/early November. Tickets are $16 for arena and grandstand; $26 for Gold Buckle Seats and Box Seats and are available by phone (928-445-4320 or 866-407-6336) or online at www.worldsoldestrodeo.com (bull riding photo by Lynette Tritel).

Kids are always welcome in Prescott and this Saturday at 1 pm is proof in point. Children 7 to 14 are invited to a hands-on workshop at the Phippen Art Museum, learning how to make their own treasure map with provided watercolors and ink. Phippen Museum staff will teach about map symbols and folklore of treasure maps, including Arizona's famed Lost Dutchman Mine. The $5 workshop price includes a tour of the Treasures of the Phippen Collection which runs through Sept. 20. Pre-registration is required so save your young person's place by calling 928-778-1385 or at www.phippenartmuseum.org.

We're coming up on the 9th annual Prescott Jazz Summit, Aug. 28 -30, and auxiliary activities are already underway. On Tuesday, the Plaza was packed as the Mike Vax quintet played big band tunes. A Prescott Sailor home on leave gave a few gals a whirl (see photo). This Wed., Aug. 19, festival director Vax and local musicians Jack Petersen and Denny Garr perform at Pasquale's Place, 148 N. Montezuma (a block from Courthouse Plaza). Saturday, Aug. 22 Vax plays with Phoenix favorites the Joel Robin Trio from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at 129 ½ American Jazz Grille, 129 1/2 Cortez. Then Tuesday, Aug. 25, enjoy two hours of the Swing Shift Big Band on the Plaza starting at 6:30 p.m. with vocalist Rosemary Chavez. Get your tickets now for the Jazz Summit events by going to www.prescottjazz.com.

Friday and Saturday Legends Aviation at Prescott's Ernest A. Love Field hosts the first-ever Arizona Aircraft Expo--one of only three held statewide. Check out the latest models of single engine piston aircraft (Cessna, Cirrus, Piper, etc.) and the latest avionic systems. Food and drink available. Free events from 10 am to 4 pm daily. Learn more by going to their website.

While you're here, check out The Raven's (130 W. Gurley) Rooftop Deck - Official Grand Opening is Thursday, starting at 4 pm. Expect double the great music as individuals and groups play downstairs and up on the roof!!

Remember, you can follow us on Twitter to receive information about upcoming events. or check us out on Facebook.

 

Till we meet again, Happy Trails!
The Prescott Cowgirl

 

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Howdy Partners! What a week and weekend we have ahead of us! It's another example of how we in Prescott are a diverse lot! Diverse but united in our love of this mile-high city, its friendly, welcoming western spirit, and love of all things beautiful.

This year's Arizona Cowboy Poets Gathering starts Friday at high noon with free sessions, featuring some mighty fine cowboy poets and musicians from throughout Arizona and the Southwest. This is your chance to sample some exceptional cowboy fare in eight concurrent sessions through 5:00 pm Friday, held throughout the campus of Yavapai College, 1100 East Sheldon Street.

And come back Friday night at 7:30 pm to enjoy the dulcet tones of cowboy singer/songwriter Don Edwards--a Poets Gathering favorite--performing in the 1,100-seat Yavapai College Performance Hall. This nationally-respected balladeer will be joined by five selected poets and singers, rounding out Friday's show.

Note: Friday and Saturday evening's tickets are $16 per night and can be purchased by phoning 928-776-2000 (credit card purchases). Or, simply stop in at the Yavapai College Performance Hall Thursday and Friday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. All seats are reserved.

Saturday, Aug. 15 from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm gives you a chance to take in more free sessions, and with 40 great poets and musicians both days, there's such a variety! If you've never seen and heard an inverted washtub with a rake handle produce the finest bass sounds in a cowboy tune, you'll be confounded! Washtub Jerry, the musician, is featured Saturday in an 11:00 am session, in Building 3. There's a whole lot of talent in these free daytime sessions and well worth your time, trust this Prescott Cowgirl!

These sessions are first come, first seated and there's still a lot of folk willing to stand!

Wear your fancy boots Saturday night for the "Big Shindig." Five renowned poets perform their works, followed by The Desert Sons. This internationally-lauded Tucson quartet, comprised of John "Buck" Ryber, Benny Young, Bill Ronstadt and Bill Ganz, produce an old-west harmony that tugs at your heart and has been described as "a sound as honest as a good horse and as bold as an Arizona sunset." It's great Western music done by top-notch musicians and an opportunity not to be missed! And bring your greenbacks as this year's poster "At Adobe Pens" by Paulden's Shawn Cameron is for sale, as are a variety of other cowboy-related treats, not to mention the raffles: a stunning saddle, a Sally Bates quilt (the Prescott-born cowgirl is also performing) and yet another hand-made Yavapai Cowbell's quilt like last year's, pictured here.

From Cowboys to Dali-only in Prescott!

While you're here, stop in at the Prescott Fine Arts Associations' Gallery (located at 208 N. Marina, with the gallery entrance on Willis Street). Their current juried exhibit "Don't Stop With Dali" is a fascinating look at what 70 artists from Prescott, Prescott Valley and Chino Valley created to fit this theme-or, "What Would Dali Do?" There are incredible 2-D and 3-D works in oils, acrylics, photography, fiber arts and photography. Dali would love it and so will you!

The Gallery and adjoining gift shop (all works by local artists) is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, and noon to 4:00 pm on Sunday. The exhibits run through Sunday, Sep. 6 so stop in soon to see how the "inner eye" of these talented folks is expressed in their favorite medium--like Holland-born Pum Rote, now of Prescott, shown here with one of his photographic "light-paintings" featured in this exhibit.

Until next week--Happy Trails!
The Prescott Cowgirl

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Howdy Partners! This weekend is another opportunity to mosey up to Prescott for some fine art amidst the shade trees of Prescott Courthouse Plaza.

The two-day Mountain Artists Guild Summer Festival, featuring more than 170 artists, is a juried art show with a wealth of beautifully-executed paintings, fibrework, metal art, handmade jewelry and more. It's even more special as the group, locally known as MAG, celebrates its 60th anniversary this month.

Saturday is also their second weekend of art demonstrations at their 228 N. Alarcon Street gallery:
- 10:00 am to noon - learn Working with Gourds with Nancy Liddell and       Diana Blochberger
- 1:00 to 3:00 pm - Karen Van Price demonstrates the nuances of Working with Clay.

Back at the MAG Summer Festival, held 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Saturday and 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Sunday, you must take in Pandemonium--Prescott's Steel Pan Band--yes, pan band. They're playing at the Gazebo from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, Saturday only.

Originally started in 2002 as a family band, Pandemonium now has a dozen or so member musicians under the direction of Sharon Nordyke. With band member Mike Van Blaricom as the arranger, this multi-generational steel pan band entertains with traditional pieces like "Cuban Pete" and "Day-O" and unexpected modern songs like "Help Me Rhonda," "Mamma Mia" and "Sloop John B."

Speaking of Courthouse Plaza, this Prescott Cowgirl never fails to be amazed at how many folk take good advantage of the fine expanse of grass. A recent weekday saunter through the area found Richard Darryll sitting on a tree-shaded bench playing his flute. Not performing, just playing. Nearby, local grandmother (they keep getting younger!) Terri McCall gladly shelled out coins to five year-old granddaughter MacKenzie to wish upon before tossing them into the fountain.

And of course every Tuesday through Thursday night you'll find the Courthouse steps and lawn space by the Buckey O'Neill statute filled as jazz, rock and good old-timey cloggers provide the nightly entertainment, thanks to the City of Prescott. Come see for yourself--Our Plaza is your Plaza.

Looking up the road a bit so you can plan your remaining summer weekend (or weekday!) getaways--The Arizona Cowboy Poets Gathering is August 14 and 15 at the Yavapai College campus. This year's theme is "Cowboy Communications" and you can bet your last silver dollar there'll be plenty of that. I like the way cowboy poet Sally Harper Bates said it recently:

"The Arizona Cowboy Poets Gathering is one of the few events that present the heart and soul of the contemporary working cowboy and his family. Wile some of our performers present the good ‘ol boy songs and poems of the silver screen, most of our performers are presenting original work. They tell of their love of the land, the livestock, the lifestyle."

There's some fine western music, too! Learn more and grab your tickets at www.AZCowboyPoets.org.

Next week, we'll give you the inside scoop on the upcoming Prescott Jazz Summit, Aug. 28-30, but be sure to make plans to attend. Visit www.PrescottJazz.com to learn more.

Van Gogh's Ear Gallery (156 Montezuma Street) hosts a special Opening Night Reception next Saturday, Aug. 15, from 6:00 to 9:00 pm. More than 70 signed and unsigned framed monoprints and more than 300 unframed works done by the late Carol Kennedy will be on display, with profits to benefit her daughters, Charlotte and Katie. The "celebration of the life and work of Carol Kennedy" is a tribute to a fine Prescott artist, much admired.

"Carol was not only an incredibly gifted artist, she was also a fine and beautiful human being who touched the lives of so many people, both here in Prescott and around the world," said owner Joanne Frerking. "We at Van Gogh's Ear Gallery hope that everyone who knew and loved Carol will join us August 15th to celebrate her life and her art."

Till We Meet Again - Happy Trails!
The Prescott Cowgirl

 

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Howdy Partners! As you may know, Prescott is "Everybody's Hometown" and that means you'll find a passel of varied interests.

In the month of August alone here in Prescott we've got car shows, art demonstrations, art and crafts on the Prescott Courthouse Plaza, Cowboy Poetry and at month's end, a four-day Jazz Summit with a concert by our own Toni Tennille! We'll be chatting about these in upcoming blogs, and you can always check our Calendar section to see what events are on the horizon, or the Lodging section to learn about our fine hotels or charming Bed and Breakfasts.

Car buffs, lovers of fine design and folks interested in history will converge on this weekend's 35th Annual Car Show & Swap Meet at Watson Lake Park. Sponsored by the Prescott Antique Auto Club, now celebrating their 39th year, the show not only highlights some fine antique automobiles but vintage farm machinery and, as fits our mountain region, mining equipment.

 

One of last year's star attractions was the gigantic steam engine used to operate various mine machinery. Mounted on the back of an old truck and standing nearly seven feet high, it boggles the mind to see how far we've advanced in such short time. Come and see it again!

You'll find all makes and models of cars and trucks from the 1920s through the 1980s, with car clubs from the Valley and northern Arizona also represented. Besides more than 160 trucks and cars, you'll find 100-plus vendors selling car parts, specialty t-shirts and related this- and-that's.

Got a car for sale? $15 gets you a space to show it off to a crowd who loves cars and deals! By all means, bring the kids. The event is Saturday and Sunday, 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. Parking is only $5 per car.

August means art demonstrations for Prescott's Mountain Artists Guild. Marking their 60th Anniversary, the Guild is offering seven demonstrations/lectures throughout the month, starting this Saturday. All are free to the public.

Opening this inaugural month of demonstrations/lectures is Terry Malone, introducing us to painting in vinyl. This process, basically used by illustrators and cartoonists on cell vinyl, is a "very powerful paint" that can be "pushed around the canvas and molded like clay" according to the artist. See him at 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.

From 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm, Guild Board president Mary Schulte demonstrates Working with Mosaics, an art that has won her numerous awards. You may have seen her work locally at the Granite Street mural and most recently at the Prescott Public Library where a mosaic dragon she donated has been taken to heart by young library goers, pictured in this blog along with the exterior of the Mountain Artists Guild, located at 228 N. Alarcon near Sheldon.

More information on this month of demonstrations can be found at www.mountainartistsguild.org. And mark your calendars now for next weekend's Mountain Artists Guild Summer Arts & Crafts Show on the Plaza!

Till then, Happy Trails!

Prescott Cowgirl

 

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