Best of Quartzsite winners 2011

Okay folks, here are the winners in the first ever Best of Quartzsite! The ballots were published in the Desert Messenger both issues in November, 2011.

When all the negative publicity of Quartzsite dominated the media during the summer, I felt it was time to celebrate what we do right in Quartzsite! I’ve taken alot of heat from folks not understanding the power of celebrating the good in our lives. I really don’t believe good old fashioned competition is bad for the economy or our community. As I sat with the piles of ballots and the huge list of categories I created, I wondered how crazy I was to attempt this! But, your responses were so overwhelming, I had to get ‘er done! Winners get bragging rights, and everyone who received just one vote is listed. Thank you to everyone who took the time to write in your favorites. Congratulations to everyone! Quartzsite Rocks!!!


Best Alternative Energy: Solar & Sun won overwhelmingly with Solar Panels, Coal, and Discount Solar coming in close behind.

Best BBQ: Jerky Store & More on Hwy. 95 was the only one to receive votes, other than “slim pickin’s”!

Best Biscuits and Gravy: This was a very popular contest for who had the best in town. Main St. Eatery came out on top, followed by Mostly Wood Gift Shop & Restaurant, Sweet Darlene’s, La Casa del Rancho and the QIA.

Best Breakfasts: Once again the Eatery beat out the pack. Sweet Darlene’s came in a close second, followed by the following ties: Bad Boy’s Café, La Casa del Rancho, Mt. Quail Café.

Best Burgers: this was surprising, as Burger King barely beat out the Eatery, with Carl’s Jr. and McDonald’s.

Best Cell Phone Coverage: Verizon was the huge winner in Quartzsite! No other service was mentioned.

Best Coffee: The Eatery came out piping hot, with Scenic Road’s Kona Coffee in 2nd place. Followed by La Casa del Rancho, Sweet Darlene’s, Love’s and McDonald’s.

Best Dinner: The Eatery barely beat out La Casa del Rancho with Sweet Darlene’s, Grub Stake Grill, followed by Sizzler in Blythe.

Best Food Vendor: The General Store got the most votes, followed by Pig N a Poke at the Main Event, Jack’s Indian Taco at Main Event, Bad Boys, The Eatery, and Rockin’ Robins.

Best Friday Night Fish: There were a lot of votes in this category. It seems folks in Quartzsite love their Friday Night Fish Fry. Sweet Darlene’s was the huge favorite with The Eatery coming in close behind. The Grub Stake and Yacht Club fared well, also, as well as the VFW.

Best Desert Golf Course: Quartzsite Golf Course scored a hole in one with the most votes, with Greasewood coming in not far behind. District Club also was mentioned.

Best Ice Cream, Pies, Dessert: Dorothy & Toto’s Ice Cream & Kettle Corn was the favorite (they just opened in their new building next to D&B Leather!) Grandma’s Pies, Sweet Darlene’s & Quartzsite Bakery tied close behind. Vendors at Rice Ranch, DQ, and McDonald’s were also mentioned.

Best Indian Taco: Joan’s Fry Bread edged out Pig in a Poke and Jacks at Main Event. There’s evidently a good Indian Taco at the Potpourri held in Parker.

Best Jerky: The Jerky Store & More on Hwy. 95 received the most votes, followed by Daniel’s Jerky on W. Main.

Best Antiques: Burt & Billie’s edged out Vendors at QIA, Vendors at Sell-a-Rama, Vendors at Hi Alley & Jim Shiew.

Best Place for New/Used Books: Readers Oasis overwhelmingly received the most votes. Other entries included the Quartzsite Library, Main St. Laundromat, and Amazon.com.

Best Place to Buy Rocks: T-Rocks rocked this category, followed by QIA Pow Wow, GFWC annual yard sale, Hi Alley Swap Meet, Rocks in my Head at Rice Ranch, PNQ’s Rock Auction, Hardie’s Beads & Jewelry, and Gem Shop.

Best Place to Buy RV Batteries: RV Lifestyles got the most votes! Discount Solar and Solar Bill’s came in close behind.

Best Place to buy something cool you don’t really need: Addicted to Deals came in first among the long list: GFWC annual yard sale, Gambler’s, yard sales, K&K Kitchen, Hardies, Costco, & Family Dollar.

Best Prime Rib: The Eatery beat out Mt. Quail and VFW.

Best RV Repair Service: RV Lifestyles and their friendly staff received the most votes, followed by Running Lizard, Mark Fuller, Coat’s RV and “my retired husband”!

Best Sandwiches: Jerky Store & More beat out The Eatery by just a few votes! Following them were Silly Al’s, Subway, and Patty’s.

Best Spaghetti garnished lots of votes. The winner is The Eatery, with Celia’s Rainbow Garden’s Spaghetti feed coming in close behind! Sweet Darlene’s, La Casa del Rancho, Yacht Club also received votes with one for “my wife’s”!

Best Storage: Paradise RV Storage came in first over Rose RV and Betty Hunter Storage.

Best time to visit Qtz. PO: “Summer” was the overwhelmingly popular answer, which included votes for July and August. Then there were the times of 2:30-4pm, 3-3:30pm and the one that made me smile was “after 4pm”!

Best use of Rock Yard Art: Celia’s Rainbow Gardens received the most votes here! Coyote Pass RV Park’s new water feature was also mentioned, along with Swanson’s old place on Desert Ave., and La Posa South.

Favorite area at Celia’s Gardens: The Veterans Area/Soldier Village received the most votes. The trails, the kid’s handprints brick wall, Rock Club area, and the center were also mentioned as beautiful places to visit.

Favorite ATV Trail: Dripping Springs, followed by Old Yuma Rd., Communication Hill, Railroad Pass-Bouse, and Stone Cabin trails were also mentioned.

Favorite Auto Repair: Best Auto barely came out ahead of Everett’s Towing, closely followed by American Tire, Taylor’s in Blythe, and “my retired husband”!

Favorite Bartender: Dianne of Yacht Club brought in the most votes, followed by Carol of Beer Belly’s, Diane at Silly Al’s Pizza, Terry at Yacht Club, Grubstake, and “myself” actually received two votes!

Favorite BLM Volunteer: Alice at La Posa South edged out Ellen at Tyson Wash, the folks at Plamosa Rd., and Lyle.

Favorite Charity event: Celia’s Rainbow Gardens’ Spaghetti Feed dominated the category followed by PNQ’s Rock Auction and GFWC Fashion Show.

Favorite Cook: Bud at the Eatery beat his co-workers, Janet & LaMont, but Abel at Times Three, came in a close second to Bud. Bob Nickerson was also mentioned for his cinnamon rolls.

Favorite Dog Groomer: Hollywood Pets edged out Cindy’s Pet Service. Marie(before she died) and Jade were also mentioned.

Favorite Electrician: Running Lizard edged out Dennis McGuiness, Denny Davey of Tews RV, Jim, John Prutch, Countrywide Bob Amos, J&S Electric of Parker.

Favorite Gas Station brought in the most votes of any category! Who would have guessed? Chevron took the most votes, followed closely by Pilot, Loves, Shell, ARCO & Mobil.

Favorite Honey Wagon: The Honeysuckles received the most votes, with Old Blue and La Posa South Petunia following closely behind…tee hee…

Favorite Desert Landmark: Halsey Williams Mill on Q Mountain came if first, with mentions of Aviation Tower (n of town), Dripping Springs, Scotty Dog (s of town), Dome Rock, Jack Cruikshandk cabin, Main St. landmark near Tyson Wash Bridge, Q Mountain, Palm Canyon, Sleeping Indian and Saguaro Cactus.

Favorite Live Performance: Paul Winer’s QIA performance received the most votes. The New Christy Minstrels at QIA, The Eatery’s Dinner Club Event, and Rock Club Variety Show at QIA also garnished votes.

Favorite Music Jam: La Posa South’s Tuesday Jam was the favorite, with Scenic Road RV singing a close second, followed by Arizona Sun RV , Holiday Palms RV, and QIA Desert Music.

Favorite Karaoke: Silly Al’s Pizza received the most votes! The Yacht Club and Taco Mio were right behind along with QIA.

Favorite Plumber: Long time resident, Dennis Dole received the most votes! Denny Davy and Running Lizard followed close behind.

Favorite QES staff member: Debbie Peterson edged out Linda Ward for the wonderful work with our elementary school children!

Favorite RV Park: This category had the most nominees. Tews RV Park beat the pack, just edging out Sunsetters RV. Scenic Road and JR’s closely followed, with other mentions of Mt. View, Cactus Patch, Quail Run, Cloud’s Trailer Park, Mt. Quail I & II, Al’s RV Park, Winter Haven, Tyson RV Park, La Posa North, and La Posa South.

Favorite Scholars’ staff member: Principle Steve McClenning brought in the most votes, followed by Julie Anderson.

Favorite Street Name: No Name Street clearly was the most favorite! Other names receiving votes were Hummingbird, Riggles, Quail Trail, Lollipop Lane, Cowell, and Moon Mountain Rd.

Favorite Waitperson: Michelle Lukkasson of The Eatery received top honors. Karen Day of Mt. Quail/Q-Town tied with Sandy of Sweet Darlene’s, followed by Diane of Yacht Club, Joanie Qualls of Times Three, Carol of Beer Belly’s, Callie of Palo Verde, Cindy of La Casa del Rancho, and Dianne of Sweet Darlene’s.

Favorite Youth Activity: Movies at First Assembly of God edged out the Boy Scouts, 4-H, Summer crafts at AWC and Football.

Friendliest Propane Service: goes to RV Pit Stop edged out the Jerky Store & More/Desert Propane. Patty’s RV, Suburban Propane, and A&B Propane also received votes.

Hardest working Medical Professional: Frances of La Paz Medical Clinic edged out Doctors O & P, Dr. Sumar, the nurse, and Dr. Hadlock, (veterinarian).

Hardest working Town employee: Town Manager, Alex Taft dominated the category. QPD Chief of Police Jeff Gilbert came in a close second, followed by Mayor Jose Lizarraga (not an actual employee), Debbie Dupree of Public Works, Julie Pieper at Town Hall, QPD Officer Rick Patterson, and Rick Smith “the tree waterer”.

Most community minded business person: Michelle and Jerry Lukkasson received the most votes. Also receiving votes were Sherri & Rick Garlow of Quartzsite General Store, Shanana Rain Golden-Bear, and Steven Bennett.

Most Dedicated Community Volunteer: Carol Kelley edged out Marilyn McFate, closely followed by Joanne Winer, Sandee Wall, Michelle Lukkasson, Shanana Rain Golden-Bear, Mary Huntley, and Monica Timberlake.

 Marilyn McFate deserves a big shout out for being the only one to fill out every category on the ballot! Whoo hooo! You rock, Marilyn!

Congratulations to all the Best of Quartzsite Winners and everyone mentioned.

Everyone is a winner!

Celebrate with gratitude the wonderful people who make Quartzsite what it is today!

Quartzsite Rocks!

Quartzsite Town Council member Pat Workman is subject of ad hoc ethics committee

1022012adhoc



Quartzsite Town Council member Pat Workman is the subject of a special meeting of the Ad hoc ethics committee which will meet Monday, October 1st at 11:30am. The meeting is open to the public.

SECTION IX - LEGAL AND ETHICAL STANDARDS OF CONDUCT

1.       Preamble

The residents and businesses of Quartzsite are entitled to have a fair, ethical, and accountable local government. Such a government requires that public officials:

A.                Comply with both the letter and spirit of the laws and policies affecting operations of the government;

B.                Be independent, impartial, and fair in their judgment and actions;

C.                Use their public office for the public good, not for personal gain; and

D.                Conduct public deliberations and processes openly, unless legally confidential, in an atmosphere of respect and civility.

2.       Code of Ethics

To this end, the Quartzsite Town Council has adopted a Code of Ethics to encourage public confidence in the integrity of local government and effective operation. This Town Council Code of Ethics and Quartzsite Town Council Procedure Manual shall not be interpreted to conflict with other rights and responsibilities of public officials set forth in this code or Federal, State, or local law. The Town Council Code of Ethics shall be considered to be the definitive document relating to ethical conduct by Quartzsite Council Members.

3.       Public Interest

A.              Recognizing that stewardship of the public interest must be their primary
concern, Council Members shall work for the common good of the people of Quartzsite, and not for any private or personal interest. Council Members must endeavor to treat all members of the public and issues before them in a fair and equitable manner.

B.              Council Members shall comply with the Laws of the Nation, the State of Arizona,
and the Town of Quartzsite in the performance of their public duties. These laws include, but are not limited to: the United States and Arizona constitutions; the Quartzsite Town Ordinances; laws pertaining to conflicts of interest, election campaigns, financial disclosures, employer responsibilities, and open meetings.

4. Conduct

A.       Council Members shall refrain from abusive conduct, personal charges, or verbal

attacks upon the character or motives of other members of the Town Council, boards, commissions, committees, staff or the public.

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B.            Council Member duties shall be performed in accordance with the processes and
rules of order established by the Town Council.

C.            Council Members shall inform themselves on public issues, listen attentively to
public discussions before the body and focus on the business at hand.

D.            Council decisions shall be based upon the merits and substance of the matter at
hand.

E.            It is the responsibility of Council Members to publicly share sensitive information
that is relevant to a matter under consideration that they have received from sources outside of the public decision-making process with all other Council Members and the public prior to taking action on the matter.

F.            Appropriate Town staff should be involved when Council Members meet with
officials from other agencies and jurisdictions to ensure proper staff support as needed and to keep staff informed.

G.           Council Members shall not attend internal staff meetings or meetings between
Town staff and third parties unless invited by Town staff or directed by Council to do so.

H.            Council Members shall respect and adhere to the council-manager structure of
Town of Quartzsite Town Government as provided in State law, and the Town Ordinances, Council Members shall support the maintenance of a positive and constructive environment for residents, businesses, and Town employees.

I.              The Code of Ethics shall be included in the regular orientations for Town Council
candidates. Council members entering office shall sign a statement affirming they have read and understand the Town of Quartzsite Town Council Code of Ethics.

5.      Conflict of Interest

A.            In order to assure their independence and impartiality on behalf of the public
good, Council Members are prohibited from using their official positions to influence government decisions in which they have a financial interest or where they have an organizational responsibility or a personal relationship that would present a conflict of interest under applicable state law.

B.            In accordance with state law, Council Members must file annual written
disclosures of their economic interests.

C.            Council Members shall not take advantage of services or opportunities for
personal gain by virtue of their public office that are not available to the public in general.

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D.         Council Members shall respect and preserve the confidentiality of information provided  to them concerning the confidential matters of the Town. They must neither disclose confidential information without proper legal authorization, nor use such information to advance the personal, financial, or private interests of themselves, or others.

E.              Town Council Members should avoid any action that could be construed as, or create the appearance of, using public office for personal gain, including use of Town stationary or other Town resources to obtain or promote personal interest or business interests.

F.              Public resources that are not available to the general public (e.g., Town staff time, equipment, supplies, or facilities) shall not be used to obtain or promote personal interests business interests.

G.             In keeping with their role as stewards of the public interest, Council Members shall not appear on behalf of the private interests of a third party before the Town Council or any board, commission, or committee, or proceeding of the Town, except as permitted by law.

H.              To the best of their ability, Council Members shall represent the official policies and positions of the Town Council. When presenting their personal opinions or positions publicly, members shall explicitly state that they do not represent the Council, or the Town.

6.       Compliance and Enforcement—All Rules

Council Members take an oath or affirmation when they assume their office in which they promise to uphold the laws of the State of Arizona, the Town of Quartzsite and the United States of America. Consistent with this oath or affirmation, is the requirement of this Council policy to comply with the laws as well as report violations of the laws and policy of which they become aware.

A.              Any suspected violation of alleged violation by a Council Member must be
reported to the Mayor. Any suspected violation or alleged violation by the Mayor must be reported to the Vice Mayor. In the case of a Town staff member making the report regarding a Council Member or Mayor, the report should be made to the Town Manager, who will then report it to the Mayor (or, when appropriate, the Vice Mayor). Upon report, the Town Manager and Town Attorney will assist the Mayor in following one of the two protocols for addressing the violation or alleged violation:

B.              If the Mayor, Town Manager, and Town Attorney all agree that the violation or alleged violation is minor in nature, the Mayor and either the Town Manager or Town Attorney may contact the individual Council Member and advise the Council Member of the concern and seek to resolve the matter (Protocol 1).

Today's issue of Desert Messenger now online

The current issue of the Desert Messenger, "Quartzsite's FREE Community Paper" is now available to read online at http://www.epageflip.net/title/6362


So much has been said about Quartzsite and the political atmosphere, but very little is being shared about what actually is going with our community. Outsiders say we are all living in fear, but that's not how it appears on the street. Even Mrs. Jennifer Jade Jones said in court Monday that she is "living with concern, not in fear". I believe that statement may be shared by many.


The Senior Center is open throughout the summer, serving up delicious lunches for only $3. Salvation Army and the Quartzsite Community Thrift Stores are very busy with deals galore! The Food Bank always needs donations to help residents eat healthy. Isaiah 58 Project serves up delicious food to the hungry. There's a few restaurants that stay open during the summer and folks are enjoying their meals. Gas station prices have lowered a bit over the past few days. Many residents are off visiting family and friends in cooler areas of the country, taking a break from the summer heat.


Headlines on the front page are, "Quartzsite makes national news!" and Best of Quartzsite!"
There's a great story about one woman's planned ride to recovery on page 3. 

Pages 4 & 5 are full of letters to the editor.

On Page 6, Voices from the Past, a column by Rosalee Oldham Wheeler, shares another piece of history of Arizona's State Flag.

Page 7 has photos of the famous Dustball Rally drivers enjoying a break at Silly Al's Pizza.

Info on a Community Fun Day planned for Sat. Aug. 13th at the park and other events begin on page 8. 

Be sure to save the dates of Oct. 1 for a plant sale fundraiser for Hi Jolly Cemetery.

On October 29th, the Hi Jolly Cemetery is hosting a "Spirit Walk" at the Cemetery as part of the Arizona Centennial celebration. Members of the community will be "Spirits" of Quartzsite's past and telling stories as visitors walk through the cemetery. The huge project taken on by the Cemetery Board should be very entertaining and educational.

The Quartzsite Business Chamber is creating a new publication all about Quartzsite planned to be published in October. Advertising rates and details can be learned by calling the chamber at 928-927-9321.

Paw Power's Animal Shelter will be closing on October 1st, while they raise funds to relocate. Read Roger Williams' letter on Page 9.

Quartzsite attracts many food vendors during the season, so the schedule for Food Handlers Classes can be found on Page 11. 

There is also a protest of Blythe's Solar project planned for Sat. Aug. 13th. More info on Page 11.

The County Assessor has two articles in this issue along with a recent press release that came late. Page 11 & 14 contain information necessary for homeowners. 

Obituaries are on Page 12-13, along with more community information.

On Page 14, you'll find a column written by Coach Louise on the importance of the "Giveaway".

On Page 15, a new addition to the Desert Messenger, is "Quirky Quartzsite's Perspectives" written by contributing author, Violet Kiss. She interviewed many local business owners and shares her "perspective". 

Page 16 contains information on local church services.

On Page 17, you'll find one of the two "Coupons" in this issue, for our elementary students. During the summer, Desert Messenger, in cooperation with Quartzsite Elementary School's Behavioral Coach, has published coupons focusing on the 6 Pillars of Character. Parents & community partners are asked to be on the lookout for students showing these characters and acknowledge them through these coupons. The 6 Pillars of Character are: Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, Citizenship.

On Page 18 Contributing author, Beth Praast educates readers on how to deal with Feral Cats in our community. Arizona has a huge problem with Feral Cats. When the issue came before Health and Development Board, they decided to educate the community through these articles.

Page 19 tells stories of our community volunteers and one particular "Food Bank Angel"! Gotta check it out, for we have many incredibly giving people in our community.

Page 20 is the famous Puzzle Page.

Astrologist Barbara Lee's column, "Astrological Perceptions" is on page 21.

On Page 22 is Paul Winer's cartoon and Classifieds are on Page 23.

Quartzsite is a diverse community and this issue shows it. I hope you enjoy reading it. The papers will be delivered to about 60 locations in and around Quartzsite today!

Desert Messenger Announces The Best of Quartzsite!

Quartzsite, AZ- Shanana "Rain" Golden-Bear, publisher of Desert Messenger, Quartzsite's FREE Community Paper, announced today there's a new feature for the upcoming season called, "The Best of Quartzsite!"

"It's about time we recognize what is Right in Quartzsite, and celebrate the hard working individuals and businesses in our community," said Golden-Bear.

Readers will be able to vote in a myriad of possible categories; everything from their favorite place to enjoy Biscuits and Gravy to the best retailer to purchase an RV. Other categories might include: favorite hairstylist, best Karaoke,  favorite ATV trail, best restaurant server, favorite swap meet, best food vendor, favorite jeweler, etc.

"This is something I've had on the back burner since 2008, and feel it is time to take advantage of all the publicity Quartzsite recently has been receiving," said Golden-Bear. "I've witnessed other communities have a lot of fun with the voting, and hope Quartzsite residents and visitors will embrace the concept."

Desert Messenger's 8th season begins September 7th. The 2011-2012 Advertising Rate Card and Deadline Schedule will be available online no later than August 7th at http://www.DesertMessenger.com

If readers have ideas for categories that are unique to Quartzsite, please submit them via email to desertmessenger7@yahoo.com.  The more participation, the more fun for all! Details will be published in the September 7th issue of the Desert Messenger.


Winners will be showcased in a special edition this season!

Remembering Paul Winer, Quartzsite's Naked Bookseller

Paul Winer, December 9, 1943 - May 7, 2019

Memorial for Paul Winer will be held 

1:00 pm SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24th, 2019 

at Quartzsite Improvement Association (QIA)

Published in Desert Messenger, May 15, 2019

By Mark Goldberg
   In coming to Quartzsite as a visitor, I had stopped in and browsed at Reader’s Oasis Books on several occasions over the years.  In 2007, we moved to Quartzsite, and I went to the store to find some books on Quartzsite history.  I introduced myself to Paul Winer, and we struck up a conversation. My first impression (visual) was that he reminded me of the mummified “Tollund Man” I had seen in Denmark who was found in a peat bog, tanned and “preserved.”  He had a wealth of information in his eclectic store; and, he was a wealth of local information.  We struck up a conversation and became great friends over time.  I attended many of his concerts and worked with him on banners, graphics and other projects.  I was always amazed at his good health.  Over the last year, Paul reluctantly made his first visit to a hospital in his entire life.  It has been a downhill slide from there with health complications and red tape.  Paul was not able to overcome the barrage of health issues which befell him and we have lost a community icon.

The Early Days
  Paul Winer was born on December 9, 1943, to Jack and Celia Winer.  His small stature, shyness, “lack of hunk appeal,” and being Jewish made him somewhat of a loner.  He graduated from Goddard College in Plainfield, Vermont; and was the Poet in Residence at Mark Hopkins College in Brattleboro, Vermont.  He taught poetics and writing and was one of the youngest members of the Vermont Poetry Society.  Paul owned and operated an 1875-style store, the “Vermont Stovepipe Press” where he published works of poetry, books, and more.
 “When I was eleven-years old [1954], I saw Fats Domino [in Lynn, Massachusetts] in one of his legendary one-night stands.  I decided then, that’s what I wanted to be – a piano thumper.”

The Birth of Sweet Pie
   Paul was a self-taught musician.  He wrote most of the music and lyrics he performed with titles like, “Hello Celia,” “Bulldog Boogie,” “Nothing Nowhere Blues,” and, “Please Remember Your Love For Me.” Paul’s first musical/theatrical performance was in a small bar in Vermont, where he convinced the owner to rent him a piano and let him perform.  He wore a long tunic and started playing the piano.  Mid-performance, he threw off the tunic and started playing naked.  The owner got mad, threw him out, and shot at him.  Paul called the police and they suggested that he leave town within 24 hours.  He left town.
   This was the start of Paul’s boogie-woogie and blues cabaret show, and career as “Sweet Pie.”  The name was derived from, “Sweet: 1.- pleasure to the taste; 2. Pleasure to the mind or feelings; agreeable, gratifying.”  “Pie: a dessert.”  He played to over 1.5 million people throughout the east coast and Canada in the early days.  Being the first male stripper to publicly perform, he met with much resistance regarding obscenity and local blue laws.  Over the years, Paul was the subject of 68 lawsuits and a Federal precedent-setting case.  He won all of the cases.  The Federal court case was Winer v Vermont. It was about freedom of speech.  In Paul’s words, “My case opened up the male exotic industry…I was the first.”  “I never decided to be a nudist.”  “My skin is hypersensitive, and I hate the feeling of clothing rubbing on my body.”
   “Nudist is what people chose to call me.  It wasn’t a choice; it was who I was…” “Naked is just the way I’m dressed.”

Joanne & Celia
  Joanne was reeling from a past divorce, and her girlfriends decided to take her to a strip show on her birthday to lift her spirits.  They went to the Sweet Pie show in Canada.  Following the show, Paul joined the girls at their table and was smitten with Joanne.  He sat on her lap and had a conversation.  Joann later says that she looked past what he did for a living, and was impressed with his eloquence, poetry, and that he was a college graduate.  They were married in 1984, and toured together in a 24-foot travel trailer.  Joanne did not have success in getting pregnant, and had given up when they were “surprised” with the birth of their daughter, Celia on March 28, 1986. 
  Celia was born after only 23 ½ weeks, weighing only 1.25 pounds and 12” long.  She was Canada’s smallest surviving baby in both birth weight and gestation. Celia grew, slowly, into a fine young girl, a straight-A student. She was artistic, and toured with the family.  She was interested in everything; particularly animals and the environment.  Celia was susceptible to colds and was getting to be of school age.  Paul said, “I didn’t want my daughter growing up in a trailer behind hotels and next to dumpsters.” 
   Paul gave up performing to find a location with Joanne, suitable to Celia’s health conditions and providing school opportunities.  They ended up in Quartzsite in 1991.  With $35 dollars in their pocket and a small trailer, they started by learning “swapping” at The Main Event in a 10’ x 20’ tent, selling t-shirts, cards for truckers and RVers, and selling two boxes of Danielle Steele books given to him by his mother.  It was a whole new learning experience in the school of hard knocks.  Over a few years, they gained experience in bartering and selling books. Also, Paul’s mother and father would glean yard sales in the Phoenix Area and bring them boxes of books.  After several ramshackle sites on Main Street, Horizon Community Bank offered them their first loan in Quartzsite, to construct a bookstore, Reader’s Oasis Books at 690 E. Main Street.
  Although active at school and in the community, Celia passed away suddenly on October 25, 1994 from a viral heart infection.  Paul and Joanne were devastated, but decided, “The town was so good to us; we stayed, because this is where people knew her.”
   In October, 1995, Joanne and Paul received the blessings of the Town of Quartzsite and the Bureau of Land Management to construct Celia’s Rainbow Garden in Town Park off Plymouth Road, north of Town Hall, to commemorate Celia and her love of nature.

The Rebirth of the Blues
  Having stopped performing in order to provide a home for Celia; Paul’s music career “slept.”  Paul focused his attention to family and the bookstore.  He was able to be comfortable in the bookstore saying, “The bookstore shelters a lifestyle.  I can’t live in most places on an everyday basis.” 
  Paul’s life changed dramatically on August 10, 2010.  Paul received a telephone call from a group which was staging a Salisbury Beach Reunion, his old stomping grounds in Massachusetts.  They said they wanted him to perform his Sweet Pie Show, and they would provide airfare, hotel, transportation, and a piano if he would attend.  Paul jumped at the opportunity - his dream of becoming a Fats Domino had always been present.  Paul spent weeks re-learning all of his songs and practicing on the piano; his music having been mostly dormant for the past 20+ years.  He boarded the airplane to the reunion…his first airplane ride.  At the venue, he was greeted by hundreds of fans.  The theme from Rocky, was playing as he entered to a 15-minute standing ovation.  Paul said, “I was flying – never had my ‘self’ been so ‘rekindled.’  Paul’s musical career was reborn.
  Upon returning to Quartzsite, Paul made big plans for performances, local and back east.  After another jaunt back east, Paul decided that his home in Quartzsite was his best venue.  On October 23, 2010, Paul was asked to perform at the “Nostalgics Car Club” special dinner and entertainment in Quechan Park, Blythe, CA.  It was his first major local performance. He was joined by washtub bass player Ralph Martin, who played most concerts with Paul as his sidekick and accompanist.
   Many local performances followed over the next 10 years, punctuated by Annual Fundraising Shows at the Quartzsite Improvement Association (QIA) where Paul typically played to sold-out crowds of his loyal fans.  There were two particularly memorable shows at the QIA.  The first was on January 12, 2011; “An Evening with Paul Winer and His Friends.”  After his success back east, Paul assembled a group of his musical friends including: Ralph Martin, Jerry Mullins of “Barefoot and Boots,” and Sonja and Norm in a new group, “Skyhawk.” Paul and his friends played to an appreciative, sellout crowd of 760 people (admission was a $5 donation.) Anker Rasmussen, of QIA, noted, “The evening was the most successful single-evening musical event in the history of the QIA!” 
  At Paul’s request, I picked up Paul’s parents Jack and Celia in Phoenix, and brought them to the show.  Paul and his father were estranged due to Paul’s lifestyle, for over thirty years. His father didn’t mind that he performed naked, or played ribald songs…as an act; but that, he should have a “normal lifestyle” after performing.  They had somewhat reconciled following Celia’s passing; however, his father and mother had never seen Paul perform until that evening.  Paul sang a special song to his father called, “I Love My Dad.”  There wasn’t a “dry eye in the house.”  It was a great evening for all. 
  The second memorable show was Paul’s last performance at QIA on February 16, 2019.  Paul was in ill health, and made a superhuman effort to perform his songs and cajole with the audience.  It was evident that he was in poor health; yet, his loyal fans were excited to see him perform, and rallied him to continue.

Epilog
   Paul and Joanne have spent their entire time living in Quartzsite promoting the Town of Quartzsite, the Bookstore, Paul’s career, and Celia’s Rainbow Garden.  People and media have come from all over the world to see, interview, or film “the Naked Bookstore Guy.”  There are news articles and references about Paul and Reader’s Oasis Bookstore in hundreds of publications, television, novels, movies, DVDs, CDs, books, YouTube Videos (professional and amateur), Social Media and more.  Joanne has volunteered thousands of hours at the Quartzsite Business Chamber of Commerce, the Quartzsite Community Thrift Store. She has consistently published articles on Paul and has been promoting the Town of Quartzsite in local and regional newspapers, Visitor Guides, and lots more.  They both have spent countless hours selflessly donating their time and talents to raise funds for a wide variety of community causes.  Most people have no idea that the team of Paul and Joanne have always been Quartzsite’s most consistent and effective promoters, pro bono.
  Paul said in many interviews, “I wanted to be Fats Domino when I was a kid.  I lived my dream as Sweet Pie for 25 years, and I’m going to live the rest of the dream – and that is to continue it for a lifetime until I die doin’ it on stage.”

Paul Winer, 1943-2019

[Editor’s Note: A memorial is being planned for 1:00 pm SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24th, 2019. A fundraiser has been set up at https://www.facebook.com/donate/378968652827266/608346602963370/.
A Memorial CD of the Paul’s final concert at QIA is now available for purchase at Reader's Oasis Bookstore. Folks are also encouraged to join the new Facebook Group called “Paul Winer Memorial.” Feel free to share your photos, memories, and ideas for a memorial project honoring the legacy of Paul Winer.]

Wanna make a difference?

Be a Volunteer!

There are many ways to make a difference in the world today.

Volunteering is the best opportunity!

Quartzsite offers many wonderful organizations looking for volunteers and participation:

• Boy Scouts
• Amateur Radio Operators (HAMS)
• Arizona Centennial Committee of Quartzsite
• Arizona Sunriders ATV Club
• Cactus Dodgers Square Dance Club
• Celia's Rainbow Gardens
• GFWC Woman's Club
• Metal Detecting Club
• Operation Hero Comfort
• Proud Neighbors of Quartzsite (PNQ)
• PTA
• Quartzsite Art Guild
• Quartzsite Business Chamber
• Quartzsite Clowns
• Quartzsite Community Prevention Coalition
• Quartzsite Elementary School
• Quartzsite Food Bank
• Quartzsite Library Friends, Inc.
• Quartzsite Garden Club
• Quartzsite Historical Society (the Museum)
• Quartzsite Improvement Association (QIA)
• Quartzsite Quilters
• Quartzsite Roadrunner Gem & Mineral Club
• Quartzsite Senior Center
• RC Flyers
• Red Hat Society
• Rotary Club
• Salvation Army
• Scholars' Academy
• VFW Post 769 (Women's Auxiliary, Men's Auxiliary, Comrades)
• Willpower, Inc. (QAC & PawPower)

Local Churches have many projects that need volunteers as well.
The BLM also needs volunteers to help with caring for local desert lands.
The Town of Quartzsite has many volunteer boards that will help make decisions for the future of Quartzsite.

They say, "If you get bored in Quartzsite, it's your own fault."

Besides being the Rock Capital of the World, we are a full time community with hundreds of volunteers sharing their talents with others, MAKING A DIFFERENCE!

Get involved today!

AG declines prosecution of Quartzsite Police Chief Jeff Gilbert based upon DPS investigation

For Immediate Release: Statement from Quartzsite 

Chief of Police Jeff Gilbert on DPS Report #2011-027462

Quartzsite, Arizona - On August 13, 2012, I received a completed copy of the criminal investigation conducted by the AZ Department of Public Safety (DPS) against myself and Sgt. Xavier Frausto. This report included the "Turndown" notice declining the case by the AZ Attorney General's Office, dated July 12/13, 2012. The allegations and complaint was initiated by then Quartzsite Mayor Ed Foster.

The case was declined for the following reasons stated by the turndown report as: "Victim/Witness Credibility Problems"; "Inadequate Evidence of Intent"; "Inadequate Evidence of Corroboration"; and "No Reasonable Likelihood of Conviction".

This is the third criminal investigation I have been subjected to along with members of my department from false allegations and complaints made by then Mayor Ed Foster. I have been exonerated, along with the other members of the department each time. Sergeant Xavier Frausto has served this community for nearly twenty years with his complete dedication to the community.

I have documented evidence that Ed Foster participated with another party and submitted a fabricated and forged letter to DPS in 2010 in an attempt to lend credibility to the first of his false allegations and complaints. While I brought this matter to the attention of DPS, to my knowledge they declined any further investigation of the incident.

Ed Foster, along with others, continues to this day in his attempt to discredit, and have me criminally charged, as the Chief of Police for the Quartzsite Police Department. His latest false allegations and complaints created an investigation and finding period that lasted nearly fourteen months resulting in an unknown loss and waste of the tax payer's dollar, not to mention the undue hardship that was created to the community, the Town, the Department, Sgt. Frausto, myself and our families. 

On behalf of the Quartzsite Police Department, myself and all those affected, I wish to thank the Town and community members of Quartzsite that have provided their continued support and stood behind us over the course of these false allegations and complaints.

I will continue with my dedication to the Town of Quartzsite as Chief of Police, to serve and protect and to provide the best possible police services to the community. Again, I wish to thank everyone for their support.

Jeff Gilbert

Chief of Police

Quartzsite Police Department

Quartzsite Chevron passes inspection

Quartzsite, Arizona- A complaint was filed with the Arizona Department of Weights and Measures by Mr. David Bertrand of Quartzsite. Bertrand complained that the Chevron fuel contained "more than 20% of ethanol in pumps....[he] had to drain his car [and it was] happening to others as well." 

The AZ Dept. of Weights and Measures responded and took samples at the Chevron Station owned by Shay Oil Company, on Tuesday, March 20, 2012. 

The results published online shows the Ethanol percentages 

of the four samples taken are: 

9.7%, 8.2%, 9.8% and 9.1%, 

all below legal limits. 

There was also NO water found in any of the samples. 

Chevron's manager, Paul Norris, told Shanana Golden-Bear, of Desert Messenger, that customers  have been coming into the station with questions about the alleged inferior fuel they read about online. The initial story was reported Tuesday by Jennifer Jones, of The Desert Freedom Press, without contacting the station's manager for a statement. Desert Messenger attempted to contact Mr. Bertrand for a comment, but there has been no reply as of this afternoon.  Bradley Chevrolet General Sales Manager deferred all questions to Service Manager, Jim Burdette, who had left for the day.

Jones' article stated, "A local man whose vehicle may have been affected then purchased a gallon of gas and sealed it up, along with the receipt from Chevron." Bradley Chevrolet tested the fuel and it tested "around 18% Ethanol. Jones stated, "Independent stations are owned by individuals and can purchase some of their fuel from an outside source, and this fuel source can be the reason for high ethanol in the fuel." The results have been published online for many hours now, but there is no notice of the results on the original article posted online by Jones.

Chevron's station opened in Quartzsite in 1964. Norris has been with Shay Oil Company in Quartzsite for the past 19 years, which he said is the oldest continuous business in Quartzsite. Readers of Desert Messenger also voted Chevron their favorite gas station in "Best of Quartzsite 2011." 

The Shay Oil Company is locally-owned and locally-operated. They started in South Dakota in 1930. The operation in Yuma and La Paz Counties began in 1961 with a Phillips 66 Station on East 32nd St /Old Highway 80 in Yuma. They have been carrying Chevron fuel since the 1990's.  All stores carry Chevron fuels. For more information on the company visit their website at: http://www.cstoreyuma.com

If consumers have questions about any fueling station, they may visit the Arizona Department of Weights and Measures at https://www.azdwm.gov/ click the "Consumer" Tab, then "Inspection Reports", then click "Inspection Search Page" in first paragraph. 

To read the full report, visit: 

https://www.azdwm.gov/PdfOriginals/4944-225611.pdf   

Quartzsite loses Bob Nickerson, publisher of Quartzsite Crier

Quartzsite residents are grieving the loss of a dear friend, Robert "Bob" F. Nickerson who died Friday, January 25, 2013 at his home at the age of 63. Bob, who many referred to "Chef Bob" or "Nick", gave so much to the community of Quartzsite.

Bob came to Quartzsite very little, but soon began working at local businesses on W. Main St., including Kittie's Ice Cream and Addicted to Deals.

Bob also served as the caretaker at Quartzsite Senior Center and enjoyed cooked many meals for the elders. He had an unusual flair with flavors, much to the delight of the seniors. He also helped in the remodeling of the Senior Center kitchen.

Bob and I talked about options for his Bible Word Search Puzzle, as it would not be a perfect fit for the Desert Messenger. He soon decided to publish the free "Quartzsite Crier", which was full of funny cartoons, jokes, sayings, and of course, his famous Word Search Puzzle. He was so excited when he received his business license, and then published the "Quartzsite Crier" the 2nd & 4th Thursdays of the month. Advertisers supported his project of sharing his sense of humor with folks around town. He published Quartzsite Crier for over two years before his health began to decline.

His latest endeavor was the free publication "Quartzsite Funny Bone" which came out just last month, with the support of Norm Simpson, owner of Mountain Quail Cafe, as publisher.

Bob studied very hard and became a licensed Minister. He started "The Voice in the Wilderness Ministry". He was a staunch supporter of "Giving a Hand Up" not "a hand out". As his health declined, Bob would often call his friends and just say how much he appreciated their friendship. He knew his time was short and lived life fully.

Bob's Facebook page reads, I "am an ordained Minister, Have an Open Air Ministry, "The Voice in the Wilderness" dedicated to serving God and helping those in need with housing, food and other daily needs, utilizing funds or products donated to my ministry. If unable to personally help, will refer them to someone who can. I will not rest until those coming to me, asking for help, are helped. Didn't JESUS say: "So you've done unto the least of me, you've done unto me also."

His favorite quote was, "Laughter is the best medicine!"

Rest in Peace, Bob. Services are pending.


Shanana Rain Golden-Bear
Publisher/Editor Desert Messenger
www.DesertMessenger.com

Testimonials for Free Paper Week

National Free Paper Week, March 15-21, 2009 was a great success in Quartzsite! On page 13 of March 18 issue, the following letters were published. What a wonderful response from this community! Also the first Desert Messenger newspaper box was place right in front of Town Hall. We are woking on a few more to be place in key locations around town. Watch for them soon!
Here are the sweet letters from advertisers and readers:


Dear Rain,
After being a Real Estate Broker for in access of 30 years and spending thousands and thousands of dollars in advertising with radio, TV and newspaper, I must say for dollar spent and dollar returned your paper is the best. Not only do you do excellent work on your layout and publishing, you are very conscientious and a joy to work with. Thank you. Keep up the good work.
Hank Covey
Broker for AZ Properties
Unlimited, LLC


Dear Editor,
Thank you for wonderful newspaper. It has been a rewarding experience to write the column, Thoughtbuster.com for your paper.
I have gained wonderful feedback and new clients from my articles. Just goes to show people do like good news. Thank you, Coach Louise


Dear Rain,
I want to send this letter to you in appreciation for your wonderful help in publicizing my cardio vascular screening business! I have met a number of people who have read your paper and responded to my advertising. You have been so creative and helpful. I appreciate your willingness to "brainstorm with me about my ads."
I look forward to a continuing warm relationship with you and this great community newspaper! And now with the confirmation that Medicare will cover this screening, there will be many more who see my ad and will come to see me.
THANKS!
Vern L. McNally, Ph.D.



I would like to thank Rain and the Desert Messenger for all the help they have provided to assist me in reaching out to people to help make my business successful. Arizona Westcoast Realty became Quartzsite’s newest Real Estate Company a year ago this month. In these difficult economic times we have remained successful thru hardwork and the help of the Desert Messenger. This print advertisement has been our best mode of advertisement. It has benefited us by bringing in people inquiring about property and sellers who want us to market their property, in part to our full page colored advertisement in the Messenger. I selected the Desert Messenger for our marketing purpose because of its circulation, "neutral" articles and information it provides. I also think it helps by being a "free" newspaper. People won’t hesitate to pick it up if it doesn’t cost anything. I like "free".
It has also been a pleasure to work with Rain. She has been very professional and well organized. She has always communicated and responded when I need her help. She has made the advertisement process easy and simple, but yet I think she still makes me work too hard. I will continue to support Rain and her endeavor with the Desert
Messenger and wish her continued
success, as her success will also be
mine. Thank you,
John Yackley
Arizona Westcoast Realty
Owner/Broker


I’d like to thank the "Desert Messenger" for always having a free newspaper. While I was the Director of the Quartzsite Chamber of Commerce, one of the best items we gave to all of the visiotrs who came into our office was a copy of the "Desert Messenger".
This paper gave the visitors helpful information for their visit to our community. I would like to thank "Rain" for keeping this paper professional and informative. Rain, you are an asset to our community as well as to our visitors. Keep up the great work, we really do appreciate you.
Angie Masales, 5 year resident of this community

Those three little Donna Dae’s Crafts ad have done more for our business than any before. Customers are commenting on how they now see our ads in the paper. It’s always fun to look for our ads, because you never know where they will pop up! As soon as we get our deliver [of the Desert Messenger] they go out the same day! Everyone enjoys the "Good news only" concept of your newspaper. We suffer through enough bad news in this day and age, so pleasant news is a welcome reprieve!
Donna Fowler, Donna Dae’s Crafts


To the editor,
Desert Messenger,
Dear Rain,
Thank you for offering a kinder, considerate, more thoughtful editorial approach to Quartzsite news. It is refreshing and interesting to see a no-nonsense, non- rancorous policy. We can understand the support you enjoy from your advertisers as well as the reading public. On behalf of, National Free Paper Week, we salute your efforts and offer our thanks to your advertisers.
Margaret and Elmer London
Quartzsite

Quartzsite Publisher responds to letter in Desert Freedom Press

In "August 2011" Volume 1, Issue 14, of The Desert Freedom Press, there is a letter to the editor on page 4 written by Michel Halor that drew my attention. The paper has no particular date, other than "August 2011", but was uploaded to the Desert Freedom Press blog today.

The letter reads:

"I would like to clear my name from the false statements made in the May 18th, 2011 Volume 7 issue 131 of the Desert Messenger - in reference to my having a warrant and theft of stolen property.
These statements are in full, false, and I am considering this libel and defamation.
This has been a recurring issue on many occassions. I'm relaying this to you versus the DM because I hold little faith this would ever reach print or be edited truthfully. With all due respect, they need to get their facts right, this is not only embarrassing, but misinformation spreads rumors."
Michel Halor

Those are some rather strong accusations. The only reference I found to the name above was on Page 17 of Desert Messenger's May 18, 2011 issue under the Arrest Report from QPD. This report was emailed to the Desert Messenger by Linda Conley, previous clerk at Quartzsite Police Department. She is also one of the famous "Quartzsite 10", who now works for La Paz County Attorney's office.

I gotta say, that if my name mistakenly appeared under an arrest report, I sure as heck would not wait until 3 months later to complain to another paper about the situation. Jennifer Jones, of the Desert Freedom Press, should have done her due dilligence before printing such a letter (unless she was intentionally trying to shed a negative light upon the Desert Messenger)!

A notice to all readers: All errors/corrections submitted before deadline, are published in the next available edition of the Desert Messenger. Deadline dates are published (in multiple locations) in EVERY issue of the Desert Messenger!

The 2011-2012 publication schedule, along with each deadline, is available online at http://www.desertmessenger.com/. Advertisers and readers, alike, rely upon the Desert Messenger to "hit the streets" on the publication date (if not before) with reliable news, events and entertainment for Quartzsite and surrounding areas.

Every issue since May 5, 2010 is archived online at www.epageflip.net/title/6362 (under the folder icon at top of landing page). Readers may subscribe to a free service to receive emails when the current issue becomes available. Just click on the brown "subscribe" button on the right hand side of the landing page. As soon as the paper is uploaded, an email will be sent to subscribers FREE! Most times this is before the papers even reach town! Get the news first and subscribe FREE!

Desert Messenger begins our 8th year publishing local news, events and entertainment. Stay tuned for the Best of Quartzsite coming soon!