Are you an America Tango dancer?

There are still a few openings in the intermediate American Tango class taught by Andy Smith at Yavapai College. If you already know the basic steps in American Tango and would like to add additional steps, this class is for you. The cost is $67 for ten lessons!

Class Schedule

This class begins on Wednesday, November 2. It is class DAN 198-103 (CRN32452). It meets two nights a week (Monday and Wednesday) from 7:30/9:00PM for five weeks. Register online at http://www.yc.edu/ Any questions? Email Andy Smith at asmith32@instructor.yc.edu

Andy Smith doing an American Tango Demonstration

Andy and his dance partner Marilyn did this Tango demonstration at the fund raiser for the Yavapai College Jazz bands.

Are you a lover of jazz? Do you miss the taste of New Orleans food? Then you are in luck. Mark your calendar for Sunday, September 25, 2011 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Mike Vax and the Great American Jazz Band has been performing together for over 35 years. They bring dynamic excitement to audiences wherever they appear. This group attains a swinging jazz feel, while playing tunes from the late 1800’ through today.

$19.95 per person includes brunch, a glass of house champagne and entertainment.

Seating is limited! Please call 928.445.2970. Pine Cone Inn, 1245 White Spar Road, Prescott, Arizona.

FREE RESOURCES FOR SENIORS AND CAREGIVERS

Just wanted to pass the word about someone special in our community, Debbie Stewart. She has aided area non-profits for years and has now started to work on the needs of seniors and caregivers (yes, we are all getting older). You may find something of interest here or something that a friend would appreciate knowing about. Play it forward. And thanks for your interest.

New resources available

There are several new FREE resources available to help improve the quality of life for Seniors and Caregivers in our local communities. The Caregiver Connection Newsletter is emailed monthly for Free and includes a list of support groups, meetings and other resources available throughout Yavapai County, as well as informative articles related to the joys and challenges of being a Senior or Caregiver.

The Senior Resources Agency Online Directory allows anyone to search on various categories for contact information for hundreds of local companies and agencies that provide services and products for Seniors and Caregivers.

Mark you calendar for September 23

The first semi-annual Senior Resources Conference and Expo will occur September 23 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Brought to you by the Prescott-based Senior Connection, the event will include short presentations by local experts who will talk about the most sensitive issues relating to the challenges of being a Senior or Caregiver, and dozens of local commercial, nonprofit and government Senior Resources Providers will offer free information about their products and services. Location will be the Adult Center of Prescott, 1280 E Rosser Street. Free admission.

Please visit www.SeniorConnection.us to learn more about these free resources or contact Debbie Stewart by email Debbie@SeniorConnection.us or phone (928) 778-3747.

The 11^th Annual Prescott Jazz Summit will heat up Prescott on August 26-28 at multiple venues. This year’s theme is A Tribute to the Great BIG BANDS. The Prescott Jazz Summit is always eagerly awaited by jazz aficionados. Here is the schedule:

Friday August 26

Noon – Free concert at Courthouse Square. Bring your chairs and enjoy the music.

5:30 – 7:00PM $75.00   Meet and Mingle with the Musicians Reception with d’oeuvres and cash bar (includes  Friday Night Concert) at Monk’s Restaurant. 123 North Cortez Street

7:30 – 10:00PM $25.00 Concert and dancing at Elks Opera House

Saturday August 27

1:00 – 3:30pm – $15.00 Concert/Dancing at Hotel St. Michael’s historic hardwood floor ballroom

7:30 – 10:00PM – $30.00 Gala Concert at the Ruth Street Theater

Sunday, August 28

10:00AM – 12:30PM – $45.00 Jazz Brunch at the Hassayampa Inn Marina Ballroom – price includes afternoon concert)

1:15 – 3:00PM Concert at the Hassayampa Inn Marina Ballroom

6:30 – 9:30PM Jam Session (Dinner optional) at 129 1/2 An American Jazz Grille on Cortez Street

Online information and tickets at http://www.prescottjazz.com/ Or call (928) 880-2462 for information. Tickets can also be purchased at the Prescott Chamber of Commerce (117 W. Goodwin ST) or at the Prescott Convention and Visitors Bureau at 600  East Gurley or at the door to the venues.

Mike Vax on trumpet

The Prescott Jazz Summit and the Highlands Center are collaborating to present two more exciting jazz concerts in a beautiful setting.

SATURDAY, JULY 9^th Margo Reed and Delphine Cortez (Two of the most popular vocalists in the Phoenix area) with Joel Robin-Piano/Keyboard Bass, Tony Vacca-Saxophone, and Cleve Huff-Drums. (Mike Vax, director, will be sitting in on trumpet/flugelhorn.)

SATURDAY, AUGUST 13^th Renee Patrick (New vocal sensation in Phoenix) Mike Vax-Trumpet, Tony Vacca-Saxophone, Stan Sorenson-guitar, Ted Sistrunk-bass, and

Wes Anderson-drums

Place: The Highlands Center Amphitheater, 1375 Walker Road, Prescott 86303

             (Near Lynx Lake)

Time: July 9^th and August 13^th –7:00 PM.  Doors open 1 hour early.

           Refreshments will be available for purchase from the Highlands Center.

TICKETS: $15 each performance

Information:

The Prescott Jazz Summit: 928-830-2462  *  The Highlands Center: 928-776-9550

DON’T FORGET THE PRESCOTT JAZZ SUMMIT – AUGUST 26-28!

2009 Rodeo Grand Entry photo by Jack D. Wilson

Folks, it is time to dress western and RODEO!

The Rodeo grounds open two (2) hours before events.

Family Days Discount

Wednesday, June 29, and Thursday, June 30, have been designated “Family Days”.  For $50 two adults and up to four children can get tickets to the rodeo.  This is a discount over our normal prices.  Tickets have to be purchased either by phone (1-866-407-6336) or at our Ticket Office.

Tuesday, June 28
• Happy Hearts Rodeo for Exceptional Children (Prescott Rodeo Grounds), 5 p.m.
• Rodeo Performance, 7:30 p.m. (Daily Courier night)

Wednesday, June 29
• Rodeo Performance, 7:30 p.m. (Wrangler Tough Enough to Wear Pink night – raising funds for breast cancer research)

Thursday, June 30
• Rodeo Performance, 7:30 p.m. (Country Bank night)

Friday, July 1
• Kiwanis Kiddie Parade, 8:30 a.m. (Cortez & Goodwin St.)
• Rodeo Performance, 7:30 p.m. (Jack Daniels night)
• Rodeo Dance – Family night, 8 p.m. – 1 a.m., M&I Bank Parking Lot (303 N. Montezuma)

Saturday, July 2
• Rodeo Performance, 1:30 p.m. (York / Dodge night)
• Rodeo Performance, 7:30 p.m. (Coors / Canyon Distributing night)
• Rodeo Dance – 21 and older, 8 p.m. – 1 a.m., M&I Bank Parking Lot (303 N. Montezuma)

Sunday, July 3
• Cowboy Church (Prescott Rodeo Grounds), 8:30 a.m.
• Prescott Rodeo Days Fine Arts & Crafts Show (Courthouse Plaza), 9 a.m.
• Prescott Frontier Days Parade (Courthouse Plaza), 9 a.m. - Theme: Rodeo Pioneers
• Rodeo Performance, 7:30 p.m. (Murphy’s Restaurant night)
• Rodeo Dance – 21 and older, 8 p.m. – 1 a.m., M&I Bank Parking Lot (303 N. Montezuma)

Monday, July 4
• Prescott Rodeo Days Fine Arts & Crafts Show (Courthouse Plaza), 9 a.m.
• City of Prescott‘s Fabulous Fourth (Pioneer Park), Noon-10:30 p.m.
• Rodeo Queen Coronation (Prescott Rodeo Grounds), Noon — this is a FREE event
• Rodeo Performance, 1:30 p.m. (Coca-Cola)

Monday, July 5
• Prescott Rodeo Days Fine Arts & Crafts Show (Courthouse Plaza), 9 a.m.

The Prescott Jazz Summit presents THE DIXIELAND RAMBLERS from Grand Rapids, Michigan, who have entertained audiences with their lively and engaging Dixieland Jazz music since 1957.  They have performed with Al Hirt, Pete Fountain, The Dukes of Dixieland and have played the ballroom circuit. 

After a hiatus of some years, the band got back together – and where better to do that than in the City of New Orleans.  With a revitalized interest in bringing “America’s True Art Form” to many more people, The Dixieland Ramblers have taken to the road to tour and perform.  Their repertoire comes from the golden age of jazz music in the 1920’s, the swing era of the 1930’s, 1940’s and beyond. 

Come experience the essence of New Orleans Jazz.  Mike Vax, the director of the Prescott Jazz Summit, welcomes The Dixieland Ramblers as their guest artist on trumpet. 

When: April 2, 2011, 8:00pm

Where: Hotel St. Michael’s ballroom, downtown Prescott. 

Tickets in advance at the Chamber of Commerce, online at www.prescottjazz.com  or at the door.  Price:  $20

Reata Pass Auctions had this fancy parade saddle on display. It will be sold at their Cowboys & Indians combined estates auction on March 27 and 28.

Overflowing Crowds

It was estimated there would be 750 attendees at this event, but there were large crowds from the start that continued well into the afternoon. I could not get a final count of attendees, but it looks like more than 1,000! The dealers were quite happy.

Display of fancy collectible spurs.	The set of spurs on the lower right were priced at $500.00.

Collectors turned out in droves to buy, sell and trade cowboy related memorabilia at the 5th Annual Cowboy Collectors Gathering at the Prescott Frontier Days Rodeo Grounds.

A shot of dealers and customers in the main building.

Above, more of the scene at the sale.

Photo credits

All photographs by Jack D. Wilson. Unauthorized use prohibited without prior permission.

Feedback

If you found this article helpful, please leave a comment, Tweet it (button below) or forward to a friend. If I missed something, leave a comment and I will try to update the information. You can also subscribe to get future articles emailed to you.

Jack D. Wilson first visited Prescott in 1995 and has been a resident since 2000. He took a sojourn into politics and was the mayor of Prescott Arizona from Nov. 2007 – Nov. 2009. He now writes a couple of blogs, is President of the Prescott Frontier Days Community Service Foundation and Group Leader of the UsToo Prescott-area Prostate Cancer Support Group.

The Blog-Health-o-Meter™ reads Wow.

Crunchy numbers

The average container ship can carry about 4,500 containers. This blog was viewed about 14,000 times in 2010. If each view were a shipping container, your blog would have filled about 3 fully loaded ships.

In 2010, there were 64 new posts, not bad for the first year! There were 306 pictures uploaded, taking up a total of 30mb. That’s about 6 pictures per week.

The busiest day of the year was June 5th with 539 views. The most popular post that day was Steve, if you truly love Prescott you need to resign.

Where did they come from?

The top referring sites in 2010 were twitter.com, facebook.com, visit-prescott.com, immigration.change.org, and mail.yahoo.com.

Some visitors came searching, mostly for prescott rocks, prescott mountain bike alliance, walt woodard, jack wilson prescott, and elks opera house.

Attractions in 2010

These are the posts and pages that got the most views in 2010.

Steve, if you truly love Prescott you need to resign June 2010

Arizona Mile — AMA Pro Motorcycle Racing on Sat. May 1 April 2010
5 comments

Insider Guide to Trails in Prescott Arizona September 2010
1 comment

Insider Guide to Arizona’s Christmas City – Prescott Arizona November 2010
1 comment

Prescott Arizona Elks Opera House – Restoration par excellence 2009-2010 July 2010
6 comments

© December 11 2010 Jack D. Wilson

The 22nd annual Acker Musical Showcase featured an amazing bevy of musical performers in downtown Prescott businesses – 129 in all, which I believe is a new record for the number of performers. The Acker Musical Showcase is a free event and unique to Prescott. However, please remember it is holiday entertainment to benefit the J.S. Acker Performing Arts Scholarship Fund. Tax deductible donations may be sent to:

Opening Ceremonies

At 5:30PM the opening ceremonies took place in the middle of Gurley Street (the main street into Prescott) featuring the Chino Valley Heritage Middle School band playing their rendition of “frosty the Snowman.”

Sampling of Performers

With 129 performers it is impossible to show them all, so I have included a sampling to give you a flavor of Acker night.

I move to Prescott from Chicago, which is home to a host of famous blues musicians, such as the late great McKinley Morganfield, aka Muddy Waters. So when I saw that Bella Home Furnishings on Willis Street had the Road One South band and they played Chicago Blues, I headed on over. I was not disappointed!

I also like Jazz, so when I saw the Easy Street Jazz Band was playing I stopped in.

The Hometown Banjoleers were playing at Lamerson’s Jewelry.

Our final video clip is from the very popular Pandemonium Steel Drum Band.

Photo and video credits

All photographs and videos by Jack D. Wilson. Unauthorized use prohibited without prior permission.

Feedback

If you found this article helpful, please leave a comment, Tweet it (button below) or forward to a friend. If I missed something, leave a comment and I will try to update the information. You can also subscribe to get future articles emailed to you.

Jack D. Wilson first visited Prescott in 1995 and has been a resident since 2000. He took a sojourn into politics and was the mayor of Prescott Arizona from Nov. 2007 – Nov. 2009. He now writes a couple of blogs, is President of the Prescott Frontier Days Community Service Foundation and Group Leader of the UsToo Prescott-area Prostate Cancer Support Group.

Dr. Roy Breiling	Ed Cornett
Matthew Jackson	David Russell Technorati Tags: Big Bands,Jazz,Prescott AZ,Roughrider Big Band,Trailblazers Big Band

Photographs by Jack D. Wilson

The Yavapai College Music Department presented an “Evening of Jazz” on Monday, December 6, 2010 in the Yavapai Performance Hall. It featured not one, but two Big Band ensembles, the Roughriders and the Trailblazers. Dr. Roy Breiling was the music director. Cost of admission was $5.00- and was free to youngsters 14 and under. That is a real bargain!

There is a FREE student concert tonight, Tuesday December 7 at 7:00 PM at Yavapai College Performance Hall.

The program had a holiday theme, but songs were arranged for Big Band Jazz. Here is one of the songs by the Roughriders.

Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town

Roughriders Big Band

Here is a sampling from what they played.

There was an intermission after the Roughriders completed their numbers, then the Trailblazers Big Band took the stage.

Trailblazers

Here is a video clip of the first two numbers by the Trailblazers:

Deck The Halls and I Came Upon a Midnight Clear – that featured a flugelhorn.

Photo and video credits

All photographs and videos by Jack D. Wilson. Unauthorized use prohibited without prior permission.

Feedback

If you found this article helpful, please leave a comment, Tweet it (button below) or forward to a friend. If I missed something, leave a comment and I will try to update the information. You can also subscribe to get future articles emailed to you.

Jack D. Wilson first visited Prescott in 1995 and has been a resident since 2000. He took a sojourn into politics and was the mayor of Prescott Arizona from Nov. 2007 – Nov. 2009. He now writes a couple of blogs, is President of the Prescott Frontier Days Community Service Foundation and Group Leader of the UsToo Prescott-area Prostate Cancer Support Group.

VisitEngland - Top European DMO for Social Media.

© 2010 Jack D. Wilson

Governor Rose Perica Mofford issued an official proclamation that Prescott Arizona is indeed “Arizona’s Christmas City.” A governor’s proclamation is merely a piece of paper. What caused her to issue that proclamation is much more important.

Cities and towns all across Arizona spend lots of money on Christmas lighting displays, and yes, some are larger and grander than in Prescott. But if your soul longs for the essence of the old-fashion Christmas that you enjoyed as a child, then you need to come to Prescott.

Prescott Holiday Montage 2010

World’s largest gingerbread village

The Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe’s reservation is in the middle of Prescott. Their Prescott Resort and Conference Center is at 1500 Highway 69 as you enter Prescott and kicks off Prescott’s Christmas festivities with the grand opening of their 18^th annual World’s Largest Gingerbread Village on November 20 at 10AM. It then continues through Sunday, January 2.

The Gingerbread Village is in the lobby of the Prescott Resort and Conference Center, 7 days a week. There is no charge to see the Village. The houses are made by children, chefs, businesses, families and individuals (several TV personalities typically participate). The creativity and originality of the displays is always amazing! Dozens of meticulously executed village homes and businesses are a backdrop to a circling train.

Feeling a tad jaded about the holidays and the economy? Come take a look at the Gingerbread Village, it is free and it just might revive your spirit and belief in this season of hope and giving. This event typically brings 50,000+ people to see this amazing display.
This annual Whimsical Village of over 100 houses is a fundraiser for Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters. They receive donations from the ‘lot sales’, gingerbread men cookie decorating and the donation house. And by the way, the Resort and Conference Center has just completed a spectacular multi-million dollar renovation with added amenities such as a new coffee shop.

Gingerbread Village Scheduled Activities

• Grand opening 10AM on Saturday, November 20

• Gingerbread cookie decorating for children of all ages: Dec. 4^th, 11^th & 18^th, from 11AM until 2PM

• Santa Clause will be at the resort Saturday, Nov, 27 Noon-2PM

• Central Arizona Railroad Club will be at the resort on Saturday, December 4 from 9AM to 4PM for all train enthusiasts. Come see the finest model trains in the nation and the club will be giving away a train set to one lucky child.

• Saturday, Dec. 4^th 7-9PM Light the Resort party in the Eagles Nest

• Friday, Dec, 17^th join Santa from 6-7PM for a special reading in the Eagles Nest

For move information about these activities call (928) 776-1666.

Holiday Lights

What would Arizona’s Christmas City be without lots of lights?

15th Annual Prescott Holiday Light Parade

Photograph by Jack D. Wilson from 2008 parade

Prescott’s Holiday Light Parade occurs on Saturday, November 27, 2010 at 6:00 PM at the Downtown Courthouse Plaza. It is the second major festive event of the season. Come out and enjoy a parade of floats festively and creatively decorated with lights. Dozens of lighted floats circle the courthouse in this annual favorite. I have included a picture from the 2008 that illustrates that creativity with an airplane theme.

Yard and house lights

Some folks in Prescott really go all out doing exterior decorations. The local paper, Daily Courier, maintains a list of some of the best for drive around viewing.

Photograph by Jack D. Wilson

Courthouse Plaza Lights

Photograph by Jack D. Wilson

You can enjoy the Christmas lighting on the Historic Courthouse Plaza all through December after their festive lighting on December 4 (see below).

A Bevy of Christmas Events – Saturday, December 4

My best advice is to book your room early for these great festivities. You may want to come in a day of two early to take advantage of the unique shopping opportunities (see Antique Capital of Arizona) and visit our museums (see Spotlight on Prescott Arizona Museums).

28th Annual Christmas Parade at 1:00 pm

Photograph by Jack D. Wilson – yes, that is a calliope

Prescott is steeped in historic traditions and the annual Christmas Parade is

one of those traditions. It winds around the Courthouse Plaza and lasts for about two hours. Spectators bring their lawn chairs down early to stake out prime viewing real estate.

Too cute!	Lots of vintage cars participate.
Patriot Disposal entry with co-founder Chris Kuknyo sitting in the brown jacket	What is a parade without bands?
Unique entrants!	Always lots of period costumes, many with Western or Territorial themes.

Photographs by Jack D. Wilson at 2008 Parade.

56^th Annual Courthouse Lighting 6:00 pm.

Photograph by Jack D. Wilson 2008 Courthouse Lighting Ceremony

The Courthouse Lighting ceremony is an old tradition in Prescott and is our signature Christmas event – the lighting of the Courthouse and Plaza. It includes children’s choirs on the steps of the courthouse, as Arizona Secretary of State Ken Bennett reads the story of the first Christmas just before the plaza explodes in the beauty of nearly one million Christmas lights. You should get down to the historic Courthouse Plaza early as this event always draws a very large crowd. Bring your camera to get some memorable pictures.

Prescott City Hall	Pretty light display
Plaza trees and Whiskey Row	Plaza trees and the Courthouse
Bronze cowboy at Christmas	Crowd on the Courthouse Plaza
Checking out the scene	The Courthouse in its glory

Photographs by Jack D. Wilson – 2008 Courthouse Lighting

Sharlot Hall Museum Annual Frontier Christmas Open House

Photograph by Jack D. Wilson at 2008 Frontier Christmas

Prescott got its start as a gold mining town and because President Lincoln wanting to ensure the Arizona Territorial capital was far away from the pesky confederates in Tucson. We are justly proud of being the territorial capital twice and of our frontier heritage. Come sample that heritage at the Frontier Christmas Open House features live holiday music, refreshments, cookies by a roaring fire, shopping, and living history presentations of holiday celebrations during Arizona’s territorial days.

When: Saturday, Dec. 4, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. immediately following the Courthouse Lighting

Where: Sharlot Hall Museum, 415 W. Gurley St., two blocks west of the Courthouse Plaza

Admission: $3 for Museum members; $5 for nonmembers; under 18 free

For more information about Sharlot Hall Museum’s Frontier Christmas Open House, call Jody Drake at (928) 445-3122 or visit the Museum’s website.

Acker Musical Showcase – Friday Dec. 10 5:30-8:30 pm

Photographs by Jack D. Wilson at the 2005 Acker Musical Showcase

This is truly a unique Prescott event. My advice is get downtown early to have an early dinner to prepare for this, it is usually mobbed. Insider tip: The “Jug Band” normally plays at the Elks Opera House and their songs are parodies that skewer the local politicals (they got me when I was the Prescott Mayor). Great fun and not to be missed! Festive luminaries lights will surround Courthouse Plaza and local merchants open their doors and host over 100 of the area’s entertainers for this downtown open house. Browse the various shops, galleries and boutiques while enjoying a variety of music and entertainment and indulging in delectable treats.

This magical holiday celebration is the primary fundraising activity of the J.S. Acker Music Park Association. The performers are all volunteering their time. Please give generously to the TIPS for Scholarships! bags that are staged with the performing act at each venue. Your contributions will be used to award Local Area Youth with Performing Arts Scholarships!

More at their website: www.ackershowcase.com

Shopping

Prescott offers lots of opportunities for shopping. I have highlighted a couple where you can find unique and really special gifts.

Nov. 2-Dec. 23 Mountain Artists Guild Annual Holiday Arts & Crafts Show

Mountain Artists Guild & Gallery located at 228 N. Alarcon

Pick up some one-of-a-kind objects d’art at this popular annual holiday arts and crafts show at the Mountain Artists Guild & Gallery. Items go quickly, so be sure to make out your list now!

Formal reception on Friday Nov. 26, 5:00 to 7:30 pm.

Nov. 5 – Dec. 16 "Gifts Galore!"

Prescott Fine Arts Association located at 208 N. Marina St.

Prescott Fine Arts Galley is once again transformed into a glittering gallery of gifts for the discriminating shopper. Visitors look forward to this annual event where they can purchase one-of-a-kind art and handcrafted treasures. Our artists work year round to create only the best in unique, hand made gifts for your shopping pleasure. You’ll find fine art, sculpture, jewelry, textiles, glass, ceramics and several "Who would have thought of that" items.

Last-Minute Non-Profit Stocking-Stuffer Bazaar Dec. 18 – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

More than 50 nonprofit agencies selling low-cost, high-quality merchandise to raise money for their agencies. Live entertainment. Gifts from Santa for children with adults. Prescott Activity Center, 824 E. Gurley St. 928-778-3747. Get there EARLY for the best selection!

Photo credits

All photographs by Jack D. Wilson. Unauthorized use prohibited without prior permission.

Feedback

If you found this article helpful, please leave a comment, Tweet it (button below) or forward to a friend. If I missed something, leave a comment and I will try to update the information.

Jack D. Wilson first visited Prescott in 1995 and has been a resident since 2000. He took a sojourn into politics and was the mayor of Prescott Arizona from Nov. 2007 – Nov. 2009. He now writes a couple of blogs and is President of the Prescott Frontier Days Community Service Foundation.

© 2010 Jack D. Wilson

Photograph by Jack D. Wilson

On Tuesday, November 30 2010, from 5:30-6:30PM there was a preview of the 2010 Prescott Arizona Courthouse Plaza lighting. It was a trial and shakedown before the formal Courthouse Lighting Ceremony takes place this Saturday at 6PM (see Insider Guide to Arizona’s Christmas City – Prescott Arizona for more details on that and other Prescott Christmas activities).

Video sneak peek preview

The Courthouse Lighting Ceremony on Saturday typically draws thousands of people. Here is you chance to take a sneak peek at the Courthouse Plaza lighting right now.

YouTube Video Preview

Photo and video credits

All photographs and video by Jack D. Wilson. Unauthorized use prohibited without prior permission.

Feedback

If you found this article helpful, please leave a comment, Tweet it (button below) or forward to a friend. If I missed something, leave a comment and I will try to update the information.

Jack D. Wilson first visited Prescott in 1995 and has been a resident since 2000. He took a sojourn into politics and was the mayor of Prescott Arizona from Nov. 2007 – Nov. 2009. He now writes a couple of blogs and is President of the Prescott Frontier Days Community Service Foundation.

Grand Opening 10a.m. Saturday, November 20 

The Prescott Resorts and Conference Center’s World’s Largest Gingerbread Village grand opening at 10a.m. on Saturday, November 20 kicks off the holiday season in Prescott. I attended the judging of the displays this morning so here is a “sneak previw” of what you will see.

Photograph by Jack D. Wilson: Judging of Chefs Entries

Sampling of 2010 displays

This is truly a season of joy! Even in this down economy the number of displays has climbed to ninety from seventy last year. 500 square feet of gingerbread “real estate” space was sold and this all benefits Yavapai Big Brothers/Big Sisters.

YouTube Overview

Here is a short video taken during the judging on November 19, 2010.

Some of displays

Displays are divided into several categories and here are a sampling. Please attend this great activity which has its grand opening at 10a.m. on Saturday, November 20.

Families/Individials

Photograph by Jack D. Wilson: 1st Place Barbie Fay

Youth 17 and under

Photograph by Jack D. Wilson: 3rd Place Youth 17 and Under

Corporate

1st Place Corporate: Santa's Retreat by Rummel Eye Care

Schools

Photograph by Jack D. Wilson: 1st Place Schools Lincoln school Art Club

Eagle’s Nest set up for judging

Photograph by Jack D. Wilson: Eagles Nest Panorama

Some that caught me eye

Photograph by Jack D. Wilson: 3rd Place Traci Taylor Details

About, amazing level of detail in 3rd place winner Traci Taylor’s display.

Photograph by Jack D. Wilson: Apples Of Gold - Mt. Vernon Christmas

Photo and video credits

All photographs and video by Jack D. Wilson. Unauthorized use prohibited without prior permission.

Feedback

If you found this article helpful, please leave a comment, Tweet it (button below) or forward to a friend. If I missed something, leave a comment and I will try to update the information.

Jack D. Wilson first visited Prescott in 1995 and has been a resident since 2000. He took a sojourn into politics and was the mayor of Prescott Arizona from Nov. 2007 – Nov. 2009. He now writes a couple of blogs and is President of the Prescott Frontier Days Community Service Foundation.

Governor Rose Perica Mofford issued an official proclamation that Prescott Arizona is indeed “Arizona’s Christmas City.” A governor’s proclamation is merely a piece of paper. What caused her to issue that proclamation is much more important.

Cities and towns all across Arizona spend lots of money on Christmas lighting displays, and yes, some are larger and grander than in Prescott. But if your soul longs for the essence of the old-fashion Christmas that you enjoyed as a child, then you need to come to Prescott.

Prescott Holiday Montage 2010

World’s largest gingerbread village

The Yavapai-Prescott Indian Tribe’s reservation is in the middle of Prescott. Their Prescott Resort and Conference Center is at 1500 Highway 69 as you enter Prescott and kicks off Prescott’s Christmas festivities with the grand opening of their 18^th annual World’s Largest Gingerbread Village on November 20 at 10AM. It then continues through Sunday, January 2.

The Gingerbread Village is in the lobby of the Prescott Resort and Conference Center, 7 days a week. There is no charge to see the Village. The houses are made by children, chefs, businesses, families and individuals (several TV personalities typically participate). The creativity and originality of the displays is always amazing! Dozens of meticulously executed village homes and businesses are a backdrop to a circling train.

Feeling a tad jaded about the holidays and the economy? Come take a look at the Gingerbread Village, it is free and it just might revive your spirit and belief in this season of hope and giving. This event typically brings 50,000+ people to see this amazing display.

This annual Whimsical Village of over 100 houses is a fundraiser for Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters. They receive donations from the ‘lot sales’, gingerbread men cookie decorating and the donation house. And by the way, the Resort and Conference Center has just completed a spectacular multi-million dollar renovation with added amenities such as a new coffee shop.

Gingerbread Village Scheduled Activities

• Grand opening 10AM on Saturday, November 20

• Gingerbread cookie decorating for children of all ages: Dec. 4^th, 11^th & 18^th, from 11AM until 2PM

• Santa Clause will be at the resort Saturday, Nov, 27 Noon-2PM

• Central Arizona Railroad Club will be at the resort on Saturday, December 4 from 9AM to 4PM for all train enthusiasts. Come see the finest model trains in the nation and the club will be giving away a train set to one lucky child.

• Saturday, Dec. 4^th 7-9PM Light the Resort party in the Eagles Nest

• Friday, Dec, 17^th join Santa from 6-7PM for a special reading in the Eagles Nest

For move information about these activities call (928) 776-1666.

Holiday Lights

What would Arizona’s Christmas City be without lots of lights?

15th Annual Prescott Holiday Light Parade

Photograph by Jack D. Wilson from 2008 parade

Prescott’s Holiday Light Parade occurs on Saturday, November 27, 2010 at 6:00 PM at the Downtown Courthouse Plaza. It is the second major festive event of the season. Come out and enjoy a parade of floats festively and creatively decorated with lights. Dozens of lighted floats circle the courthouse in this annual favorite. I have included a picture from the 2008 that illustrates that creativity with an airplane theme.

Yard and house lights

Some folks in Prescott really go all out doing exterior decorations. The local paper, Daily Courier, maintains a list of some of the best for drive around viewing.

Photograph by Jack D. Wilson

Courthouse Plaza Lights

Photograph by Jack D. Wilson

You can enjoy the Christmas lighting on the Historic Courthouse Plaza all through December after their festive lighting on December 4 (see below).

A Bevy of Christmas Events – Saturday, December 4

My best advice is to book your room early for these great festivities. You may want to come in a day of two early to take advantage of the unique shopping opportunities (see Antique Capital of Arizona) and visit our museums (see Spotlight on Prescott Arizona Museums). 

Christmas Parade at 1:00 pm

Photograph by Jack D. Wilson – yes, that is a calliope

Prescott is steeped in historic traditions and the annual Christmas Parade is one of those traditions. It winds around the Courthouse Plaza and lasts for about two hours. Spectators bring their lawn chairs down early to stake out prime viewing real estate.

Too cute!	Lots of vintage cars participate.
Patriot Disposal entry with co-founder Chris Kuknyo sitting in the brown jacket	What is a parade without bands?
Unique entrants!	Always lots of period costumes, many with Western or Territorial themes.

Photographs by Jack D. Wilson at 2008 Parade.

56^th Annual Courthouse Lighting Ceremony 6:00 pm.

Photograph by Jack D. Wilson 2008 Courthouse Lighting Ceremony

The Courthouse Lighting ceremony is an old tradition in Prescott and is our signature Christmas event – the lighting of the Courthouse and Plaza. It includes children’s choirs on the steps of the courthouse, as Arizona Secretary of State Ken Bennett reads the story of the first Christmas just before the plaza explodes in the beauty of nearly one million Christmas lights. You should get down to the historic Courthouse Plaza early as this event always draws a very large crowd. Bring your camera to get some memorable pictures.

Prescott City Hall	Pretty light display
Plaza trees and Whiskey Row	Plaza trees and the Courthouse
Bronze cowboy at Christmas	Crowd on the Courthouse Plaza
Checking out the scene	The Courthouse in its glory

Photographs by Jack D. Wilson – 2008 Courthouse Lighting

Sharlot Hall Museum Annual Frontier Christmas Open House

Photograph by Jack D. Wilson at 2008 Frontier Christmas

Prescott got its start as a gold mining town and because President Lincoln wanting to ensure the Arizona Territorial capital was far away from the pesky confederates in Tucson. We are justly proud of being the territorial capital twice and of our frontier heritage. Come sample that heritage at the Frontier Christmas Open House features live holiday music, refreshments, cookies by a roaring fire, shopping, and living history presentations of holiday celebrations during Arizona’s territorial days.

When: Saturday, Dec. 4, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. immediately following the Courthouse Lighting

Where: Sharlot Hall Museum, 415 W. Gurley St., two blocks west of the Courthouse Plaza

Admission: $3 for Museum members; $5 for nonmembers; under 18 free

For more information about Sharlot Hall Museum’s Frontier Christmas Open House, call Jody Drake at (928) 445-3122 or visit the Museum’s website.

Acker Musical Showcase – Friday Dec. 10 5:30-8:30 pm

Chorus in St. Michael’s Alley	Banjos at Lamerson’s Jewelry
A little Western style music	Another Western style group

Photographs by Jack D. Wilson at the 2005 Acker Musical Showcase

This is truly a unique Prescott event. My advice is get downtown early to have an early dinner to prepare for this, it is usually mobbed. Insider tip: The “Jug Band” normally plays at the Elks Opera House and their songs are parodies that skewer the local politicals (they got me when I was the Prescott Mayor). Great fun and not to be missed! Festive luminaries lights will surround Courthouse Plaza and local merchants open their doors and host over 100 of the area’s entertainers for this downtown open house. Browse the various shops, galleries and boutiques while enjoying a variety of music and entertainment and indulging in delectable treats.

This magical holiday celebration is the primary fundraising activity of the J.S. Acker Music Park Association. The performers are all volunteering their time. Please give generously to the TIPS for Scholarships! bags that are staged with the performing act at each venue. Your contributions will be used to award Local Area Youth with Performing Arts Scholarships!

More at their website: www.ackershowcase.com

Shopping

Prescott offers lots of opportunities for shopping. I have highlighted a couple where you can find unique and really special gifts.

Nov. 2-Dec. 23 Mountain Artists Guild Annual Holiday Arts & Crafts Show

Mountain Artists Guild & Gallery located at 228 N. Alarcon

Pick up some one-of-a-kind objects d’art at this popular annual holiday arts and crafts show at the Mountain Artists Guild & Gallery. Items go quickly, so be sure to make out your list now!

Formal reception on Friday Nov. 26, 5:00 to 7:30 pm.

Nov. 5 – Dec. 16 “Gifts Galore!”

Prescott Fine Arts Association located at 208 N. Marina St.

Prescott Fine Arts Galley is once again transformed into a glittering gallery of gifts for the discriminating shopper. Visitors look forward to this annual event where they can purchase one-of-a-kind art and handcrafted treasures. Our artists work year round to create only the best in unique, hand made gifts for your shopping pleasure. You’ll find fine art, sculpture, jewelry, textiles, glass, ceramics and several “Who would have thought of that” items.

Last-Minute Non-Profit Stocking-Stuffer Bazaar Dec. 18 – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

More than 50 nonprofit agencies selling low-cost, high-quality merchandise to raise money for their agencies. Live entertainment. Gifts from Santa for children with adults. Prescott Activity Center, 824 E. Gurley St. 928-778-3747. Get there EARLY for the best selection!

Photo credits

All photographs by Jack D. Wilson. Unauthorized use prohibited without prior permission.

Feedback

If you found this article helpful, please leave a comment, Tweet it (button below) or forward to a friend. If I missed something, leave a comment and I will try to update the information.

Jack D. Wilson first visited Prescott in 1995 and has been a resident since 2000. He took a sojourn into politics and was the mayor of Prescott Arizona from Nov. 2007 – Nov. 2009. He now writes a couple of blogs and is President of the Prescott Frontier Days Community Service Foundation.

My wife Liz and I remember attending the original stage production of this wild “musical” show over 35 years ago at the Royal Court Theatre in staid London. On Saturday October 23 at 7PM we attended the Lonesome Valley Playhouse’s presentation of Prescott Independent Theatre’s production at the Elks Opera House in what some would say is staid Prescott. I think the pictures of some members of the audience dressed “in character” will dispel that conclusion. The ole town is a changing!

The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a cult tradition, some would say the classic cult tradition. It is a parody and a cross between science fiction and B-movie horror films.

The original stage play was transformed into a movie in 1975 and is still being shown at midnight showings around the world. It has a life of its own where people come dressed as their favorite character, several phrases are mirrored by the audience and there are points where things are thrown. That prompted the Elks Opera House to display the following sign at several places:

I talked to Deputy City Manager Laurie Hadley after the Saturday night performance and they did not have to eject anyone during that performance. However, on Friday they did have to eject someone.

The show

The show opens with a criminologist (Olga Salazar from Jerome) narrating and setting the scene of Brad and Janet getting engaged and taking a drive where their car breaks down. They find themselves lost and with a flat tire on a cold and rainy, late November evening, but Brad remembers a castle they passed a few miles back. And then the fun begins…

At the beginning of the show Brad Majors and Janet Weiss are depicted as “square” innocents, but that would soon change radically.

Musical Numbers

This is a musical and there are several musical numbers. The first was “The Time Warp.” See the Wikipedia entry for a complete synopsis of the stage production and movie: The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Samples from the production

Brad and Janet soon learn this is no normal castle!

From one of the musical numbers, doing “The Time Warp.”

And here we have Dr. Frank-N-Furter, a sweet transvestite from Transsexual, Transylvania and his creation Rocky Horror.

The seduction of Janet and Brad

That night Dr. Frank-N-Furter does serial seductions of both Janet then Brad. The dialogue in both seduction scenes is the same.

After his seduction by Dr. Frank-N-Furter, Brad is transformed.

After her seduction by Dr. Frank-N-Furter, Janet tries to get it on with Rocky Horror.

Staid Brad transformed.

Dr. Frank-N-Furter near the end of the show in the “I’m Going Home” musical number.

Audience pictures

This performance drew a large crowd. The balcony was very popular for those dress “in character” and it was nearly filled. The main floor was about 3/4 full.

Counter help

Here we have Joseph Brehm, City of Prescott Management Analyst (black shirt) and Laurie Hadley (Deputy City Manager) working the concession counter. No wine or beer was available (drat) as they are still waiting for approval of their liquor license from the state.

“In character”

There were many (upwards of twenty) audience members dressed “in character” and this is an example:

This is a male dressed in drag as the lead character Dr. Frank-N-Furter.  I shot this during intermission.

Playbill

The cast list, director and producer courtesy of Andrew Johnson-Schmit.

• BRAD MAJORS – Jayk Boomer
• JANET WEISS – Valerye Jeffries
• CRIMINOLOGIST – Olga Salazar
• FRANK N. FURTER – Christopher Galinski
• MAGENTA – Danica Jeffries
• RIFF-RAFF – Jacob d’Armand
• COLUMBIA – Willa Cowan
• EDDIE/DR. SCOTT – Toni Rios
• Directed by Jacob d’Armand
• Produced by Clyde Neville

Photo credits

All photographs by Jack D. Wilson. Unauthorized use prohibited without prior permission.

Feedback

If you found this article helpful, please leave a comment or forward to a friend. If I missed something that you found along the way, leave a comment and I will try to update the information.

Jack D. Wilson first visited Prescott in 1995 and has been a resident since 2000. He took a sojourn into politics and was the mayor of Prescott Arizona from Nov. 2007 – Nov. 2009. He now writes a couple of blogs and is President of the Prescott Frontier Days Community Service Foundation.

The New Best Places to Retire

The Prescott – Caborca Sister City Committee was established in 1972, 38 years and nearing four decades ago. There has been a strong relationship between Caborca, Sonora, Mexico and Prescott, Arizona over that period.

Video trip recap

Technology today allows us to capture the moment almost anywhere and instantly publish those memories on the Internet. I carried my Flip HD video camera with me on this trip and used it to film the following videos.

I hope you enjoy these videos and maybe they will tempt you to join us as a member of the Prescott – Caborca Sister City Committee. Also see my related post Caborca, Mexico Official 2010 Sister City Visit with lots of photographs.

Friday, October 16 2010 – Welcome Fiesta

Saturday, October 16 2010 – Lunch BBQ at Guillermo’s House

Saturday, October 16 2010 – Noche Bohemia Casa de la Cultura

Sunday, October 17 2010 – Dinner and Dance sponsored by Mayor of Caborca

Photo and video credits

All photographs and videos by Jack D. Wilson. Unauthorized use prohibited without prior permission.

Feedback

If you found this article helpful, please leave a comment or forward to a friend. If I missed something that you found along the way, leave a comment and I will try to update the information.

Jack D. Wilson first visited Prescott in 1995 and has been a resident since 2000. He took a sojourn into politics and was the mayor of Prescott Arizona from Nov. 2007 – Nov. 2009. He now writes a couple of blogs and is President of the Prescott Frontier Days Community Service Foundation.

The Prescott – Caborca Sister City Committee was established in 1972, 38 years and nearing four decades ago. There has been a strong relationship between Caborca, Sonora, Mexico and Prescott, Arizona over that period.

On the road

We began our trip with most of the travelers meeting the bus from Prescott Executive Transportation at the old K-Mart parking lot on Willow Creek Rd. We then picked up a couple more in Prescott Valley and finally the last three at the Westgate Mall in Phoenix.

Here we are at Westgate Mall in Phoenix to pick up three passengers. Don Prince, the City of Prescott Tourism Director missed the connection in Prescott Valley, but caught up with us here. We then proceeded to what Sam Pool calls the “jewel of the Sonoran dessert” Gila Bend for a rest stop.

At Gila Bend we stopped for a quick lunch (Subway, Thrifty Ice Cream, Pizza and Mexican Grill) and then we headed for the Mexican border. You can enter Mexico without a passport, but you need one to reenter the United States.

Caborca

We arrived in Caborca at the El Camino Motel where most of us stayed. We had a couple of hour to unpack and freshen up before the welcome party.

Welcome Party

Our hosts (plus Pat Pool and Ed Birtic) as we arrived for the Welcome Party. Let the party begin!

Our bus driver Vicky, Don Prince, Tourism Director, Mayor Marlin Kuykendall and his wife Tana at the Welcome Party.

Saturday activities

Saturday was a very busy day for all of us. In the morning each of us was picked up at the motel by our local host who took us out for breakfast. It is customary (but not mandatory) to give your host a small gift. My wife Liz who is half Swedish picked up a tin of Swedish gingersnap cookies for our hosts Rafael and Lorena de La Rosa.

Bicentour

At 10:00AM a charter bus from the Pueblo Viejo Church picked us up for a Bicentour (a guided visit to some historical places in Caborca).

Cultural Center

Our first stop was the Cultural Center.

Above is a four-panel wall mural located in a sky lighted atrium of the Cultural Center (Casa de la Cultura). The mural depicts important symbols, events and people for Caborca and Mexico. The Tour then went on to the petroglyphs and then to the historic mission.

BBQ

That afternoon we had a barbeque lunch at Professor Guillermo’s house. Excellent Carne Asada (steak) tacos, drinks, conversation and dancing!

Above left – preparing the Carne Asada (steak), above right – getting the food table setup.

Noche Bohemia

That evening we returned to the Cultural Center for Noche Bohemia (cheese, bread, wine, poetry and music).

Scene at Courts of Casa de la Cultura with great band in the background.

There were a number of pieces by local artists on display and for sale at the Cultural Center. Peggy Martinez is taking a close look at one.

Sunday activities

On Sunday the Prescott travelers again had breakfast with their hosts. Then we had the rest of the day (until dinner) free to relax around the pool, go into town, etc.

Dinner and Dance hosted by the Mayor of Caborca

The mayor of Caborca hosted a dinner and dance at the ballroom of S.N.T.E. (Sindicato Nacional de Trabajadores de la Education Seccion #4). Since Mayor Kuykendall had already left Caborca I represented him and the City of Prescott.

Above left, obligatory speeches at the banquet, above right – dancing.

More dancing!

Helping the Mexican Economy

Shopping is one of the activities we all seem to enjoy and this trip was no different. A number of us loaded up at the shop in Sonoyta Mexico. One of the most popular purchases was liquor, especially Tequila including some brands not imported to the United States.

Here is Ed Birtic with one of his purchases, a Piñata for Halloween (Ed lives on Mt. Vernon). 

Jack Wilson bought this sculpture by Rafael Urias for his art collection.

Photo credits

All photographs by Jack D. Wilson. Unauthorized use prohibited without prior permission.

Feedback

If you found this article helpful, please leave a comment or forward to a friend. If I missed something that you found along the way, leave a comment and I will try to update the information.

Jack D. Wilson first visited Prescott in 1995 and has been a resident since 2000. He took a sojourn into politics and was the mayor of Prescott Arizona from Nov. 2007 – Nov. 2009. He now writes a couple of blogs and is President of the Prescott Frontier Days Community Service Foundation.