Paving scheduled on Hwy. 95 south of Quartzsite Monday

Paving scheduled on State Route 95 south of Quartzsite Monday

The Arizona Department of Transportation is currently working on a pavement preservation project on State Route 95 south of Quartzsite. Crews will be paving the southbound SR 95 right turn lane at La Paz Valley Road between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday, August 13. Traffic will be intermittently stopped during work hours and minor delays may be experienced.

What to expect during work hours:

• One lane will be closed during work hours.
• Traffic will need to come to a complete stop before reaching La Paz Valley Road while workers direct alternating traffic through the work zone.
•  Delays of approximately 15 minutes may be experienced.
•  Reduced speed limits through the work zone.
• Law enforcement will be on-site to control traffic and monitor speeds.

ADOT advises drivers to proceed through the work zone with caution, slow down and be alert for construction equipment and personnel.

ADOT works to inform the public about planned highway restrictions, but there is a possibility that unscheduled closures or restrictions may occur. Weather can also affect a project schedule. To stay up-to-date with the latest highway conditions around the state, visit the ADOT Traveler Information Center at www.az511.gov or call 5-1-1.

AWC science students to chase weather balloons from Yuma

Science Class Will Launch Their Own Balloon 

and Gather Information

Yuma, AZ - Professor of Geosciences at Arizona Western College (AWC), Christian Benker, Ph.D. and his Physical Geography class have been invited to participate in a project coordinated by the Near Space Research Organization. The team from Near Space Research Organization has prepared the launch for Saturday, February 18th at the Yuma County Fairgrounds. However, during the week leading up to launch the AWC students will be learning about the project and creating their own weather balloon data collection unit to launch.

The Near Space Research Organization will be conducting their weather balloon launch at the Yuma County Fairgrounds. Embry Riddle Aeronautical University has an instrument panel going up with that balloon. "They offered AWC the opportunity to send another one up at no cost," commented Christian Benker, Ph.D, Professor of Geosciences at Arizona Western College. "Only thing the students will have to do is put in a couple of hours to rebuild the data collection unit from a previous crash under."

Under the direction of one of their supervisors' weather balloon data collection unit will be re-assembled. The students will then be able to send their own data collection unit with the Near Space Research Organization balloon; collecting atmospheric data from it as it drifts. The students will also watch launch and even "chase" after the balloon.

The Physical Geography classes schedule of events:


Friday, Feb 17th from 10:30am-12:30pm- in AS 108-- Build team will view presentation by Jack Crabtree and Bob Shipton from the Near Space Research Organization and under their supervision build the data collection unit for the weather balloon

Saturday, Feb 18th @ 8:30am--chase team will arrive at Yuma Co Fairground for pre-launch check followed by launch and balloon chase.

**The balloon could drift as much as 100 mile radius and we will be tracking it from ground and attempting to locate data collection unit (or "payload") upon crash.**

Wednesday, February 29th @ 1:40pm in AS 108--The post-data team will interpret data collected. Students will present what data we gathered and its interpretations in class.

Quartzsite Candidate flies flag upside down on Federal Lands

Quartzsite, AZ - The photo to the left was taken on Federal BLM (Bureau of Land Management) lands, located at the La Posa Long Term Visitor Area (LTVA) just south of Quartzsite, Arizona.

Jennifer “Jade” Jones, a candidate for Quartzsite town council and self proclaimed Public Persona, along with her husband John “Jack” Jones have been camping at that site in the LTVA since early fall. Mrs. Jones became famous during the summer when the video of her arrest at the June 28th council meeting went “viral” on the Internet.

United States Code Title 4 Chapter 1 §8. Respect for Flag states “The flag should never be displayed with the union down, except as a signal of dire distress in instances of extreme danger to life or property.”

The International Code of Signals 2005 Edition, Appendix 1, contains no reference to an upside down national flag as a possible distress signal. However, a German Merchant Captain once explained , “If a crew abandons a ship in distress to save their life, the last thing to do (if they have time to do so) is to turn the flag upside down. This means that they give up any right on the vessel or cargo and anybody who manages to rescue the ship afterwards could keep it.” In court, a company would lose claim of property on an abandoned ship, but if the flag was upright it would indicate that the crew did not leave in distress, and the company would have a stronger case in court to claim the right on the vessel.

Local veterans and their wives interviewed for this story consider the act of flying the flag upside down to be very disrespectful, but a right of expression that they fought for, and many died for.

While the federal government does not prohibit hanging the U.S. flag upside down, many believe the only acceptable reason to hang the flag upside down is in cases of dire distress. However, political activists are taking to flying the upside down flag as an expression of their frustration over government issues. Activists are using the upside down flag as a “symbol of a nation in distress”.

Desert Messenger reached out to Mrs. Jones for comment. Her reply was simply, “Don’t you have any real news to report?”

However, Jones, publisher of The Desert Freedom Press, dedicated almost a half page to her editorial, focusing solely on the upside down flag flying at her campsite. She suggests that her 5 "false" arrests in 13 months, coupled with other public comments and events, would lead a reasonable person to conclude her life and property are in "extreme danger in a country whose leaders have chosen to suspend provisions of the very document that defines us as a nation." She encourages "everyone across the country to do so as well".

Snowbirds from Canada, expressed their shock, as they considered Jones' actions to be "disrespect of a nation's flag". One veteran's widow stated, "It's a slap in the face to those who fought for our country."

[Editor’s note: This article was originally slated for the front page of the January 4, 2012 issue. Out of respect for the family of Council Member Bob Kelley, whose death on December 31, 2011 became front page news, the decision was made to move the story to page 7. Kelley was a proud veteran with very strong convictions for the flag and his country.]

Hi Jolly Daze Parade to have live camel; Quartzsite, Sat. Jan. 7th

This year's Hi Jolly Daze Parade will be more exciting than ever, thanks to the donation of a generous, caring resident. Mrs. Joanne Robinson has donated the expense of the renting the live camel for parade as well as the 2011 Christmas Parade.

Lineup begins at 10:30am at the Firestation on Tyson, north end of town. The parade will travel east on Tyson, turn south on Plymouth and end up at the Pavilion at Town Park for the after parade party!

Enjoy food from Quartzsite Fire Dept., and First Assembly of God, along with deserts from the Museum, and other vendors. Organizations will have fudraising booths, and fun for the whole family!

Come out and see the camel! Thank you Joanne Robinson for your generous support of Quartzsite!

Quartzsite Town Council Member Bob Kelley dies

Quartzsite, AZ- Family, friends and colleagues of Quartzsite Council Member Bob Kelley were saddened by the news of his passing Saturday, December 31, 2011.

Kelley, whose death at 77, followed a prolonged illness, came to Quartzsite almost 30 years ago as a snowbird and vendor. He and his wife, Carol, settled down 20 years ago and became active in the community. Kelley has served on the council from 2008.

Date for a memorial service has not yet been determined.

Comments on this blog are turned off thru January

Comments on this blog are turned off through the busy month of January in Quartzsite. I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

You are invited to "Follow" Desert Messenger on Twitter and "LIKE" Desert Messenger on Facebook. 

News updates will continue to be published on this page throughout the month.

Thank you, Shanana "Rain" Golden-Bear
Publisher
Desert Messenger, Quartzsite's FREE Community Paper
The Most Read Paper in Town!

Desert Messenger is online at http://www.epageflip.net/title/6362

Quartzsite Town Attorney Martin Brannan assigns cases to special prosecutor

Quartzsite, Arizona - In a press release issued this afternoon, Quartzsite Town Attorney, Martin Brannan announced cases involving five Quartzsite residents have been assigned to a special prosecutor.

The Press Release states:

"Despite reports to the contrary, the so-called Quartzsite Bagger is not the Quartzsite Town Attorney or any other elected or appointed officer of the Town of Quartzsite. The opinions expressed on http://quartzsitebagger.wordpress.com do not represent the views of any elected or appointed officer of the Town of Quartzsite. No elected or appointed officer of the Town of Quartzsite profits in any way from the sale of merchandise by Cafe Press related to the “Quartzsite Bagger” blog.

"Notwithstanding this reality, in order for the Town Attorney and other town officers to concentrate on the business of the town without the distraction this “controversy” appears to have been designed to create, the cases involving self-styled activists Ed Foster, Jennifer Jones, Michael Roth, Dana Stadler and Doug Gilford are being assigned to a special prosecutor."

Quartzsite Town Attorney answers Jennifer Jones' accusations

Just released this afternoon, Quartzsite Town Attorney

Martin Brannan gets up close and personal.

Press Release

Dec. 22, 2011

Martin Brannan
Quartzsite Town Attorney
PO Box 2812
Quartzsite, AZ 85346-2812

I was just notified by a reporter from KSWT television in Yuma that Jennifer Jones has issued a “press”
release making generally silly accusations about her request that I be investigated by the FBI and the
Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) for threatening her and others. Assuming that the FBI and
DPS even find grounds to believe that there is criminal conduct requiring and investigation, which I
highly doubt, I know that I have engaged in no illegal conduct. There is one accusation that Ms. Jones
made which I do want to address, however, because I believe it is of great importance.

Ms. Jones alleged to the KSWT reporter that I am mentally unbalanced. I want to address this accusation
in the hopes that it will help others who are stigmatized by such outrageous allegations.

I am a veteran of the first gulf war (1990-1991). I received an Air Medal for my role in piloting medium
lift helicopters during combat operations in support of the 18th Airborne Corps. Shortly after returning
from the conflict, I began having migraine headaches and experiencing difficulties which fall under the
diagnostic heading of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I receive services from the Veteran’s
administration and have a service-connected disability for, along with several physical ailments, PTSD. I
continue to suffer from occasional depression, anxiety and troubled sleep. I take medication for my
condition which makes dealing with this disorder easier, but I do have symptoms and suffer from a
condition designated by mental health professionals as a mental illness.

I admit this freely and without reservation because, like thousands of other Americans who have served
this country against an armed enemy, I am not ashamed of the scars I earned ensuring that people like
Jennifer Jones have the freedoms that Americans enjoy. While Ms. Jones uses her freedom of speech to
ridicule people who bear the mental scars of combat like myself and Council Member Joe Winslow, she
rails against anyone who dares to exercise their free-speech rights to ridicule her and her “service” to her
fellow human beings.

The last US Combat troops have finally left Iraq and many more are still serving in Afghanistan. Some
of them will soon be returning to the United States and to civilian life. Some of them may return to this
community. All of them will have been impacted by their combat service. Some of them, like me, will
have a service-connected disability as a result of their service. All of them, like me, will nevertheless be
capable of really serving their communities both in spite of and, more importantly, because of the
personal price they paid to secure your freedoms.

How you treat these brave men and women who suffer scars that you cannot see will be up to you. You
can honor their service and their sacrifice and help them to adjust to civilian life.

You can also ridicule them and make scurrilous claims that they are mentally unstable like Ms. Jones
does. Like Ms. Jones you can even claim that you are a “patriot” in doing so. That, too is your right; a
right that these brave men and women and Joe Winslow and I all sacrificed a part of their own wellbeing
to ensure.

AG finds Quartzsite Town Council Violated Open Meeting Law

Arizona Attorney General Tom Horne finds Quartzsite

Open Meeting Law Violations

PHOENIX (Tuesday, December 13, 2011) -- Attorney General Tom Horne has found evidence that the Quartzsite Town Council has violated Arizona’s Open Meeting Laws (A.R.S. §§ 38-431 et. seq.) in connection with the conduct of Town Council meetings and dealings with a member of the public.

In a letter to the Quartzsite Town Attorney, Horne notes that on June 28, 2011, while addressing the Council, Quartzsite resident Jennifer Jones was removed from the meeting by a vote of the council. She had turned her back on the council and was addressing the audience, which the council reasonably could object to. Public bodies can eject members of the public for disruptive conduct, but they must first give a warning, which the council failed to do.

The second violation occurred on July 10, 2011 in which the Council convened an emergency meeting on at the Town Hall to discuss disruptions during previous meetings. The Council locked the doors to the meeting room and did not allow any member of the public to attend its meeting. Excluding the public from this meeting violated the Open Meeting Law.

In the third and related violation, the Attorney General notes that the Council did not fully comply with the posting requirements for emergency meetings. As of December 9, 2011, the minutes of the emergency meeting were not posted on the Town website.

The final violation involves the failure to comply with posting requirements for Notices and Minutes.

The Council did not post minutes for the July 10, 2011 emergency meeting. In addition, the Council failed to post minutes for a number of its meetings labeled as “work sessions.”

As a remedy, Horne is recommending that:

1. The Council will discuss the concerns listed in this letter with its legal counsel in open session during a properly noticed public meeting.

2. Each member of the Council and staff will participate in a training session with counsel from the League of Arizona Cities and Towns regarding the requirements of the Open Meeting Laws.

3. The Council will be subject to oversight by the Attorney General’s Office for a period of twelve months.

Quartzsite Police Dept. to conduct holiday details

Traffic Enforcement and

DUI Saturation Detail

The Quartzsite Police Department (QPD) in conjunction with the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety will be conducting traffic enforcement details over the Christmas Holidays. They will be enforcing speed, seat belt, aggressive driving and DUI laws.

QPD will also be conducting a DUI saturation detail on New Year’s Eve. They will be conducting high visibility details to keep impaired drivers off the road to keep the roads safe for the public.

The penalties for DUI can include loss of your drivers license, expensive fines, jail time, increased insurance rates, possible loss of life or injury and having your name published in the local paper.

QPD asks that if you drink, please be responsible. Don’t drink and drive, make sure to have a designated driver and wear your seatbelt at all times.

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!

Cold weather snap means campers in Quartzsite need blankets

Quartzsite, AZ- With night temperatures dipping below freezing the past few nights, people camping out in the desert are in dire need of blankets. This morning, Carol Kelley, director of the Food Bank and Salvation Army asked for a call to go out for blankets, comforters, and old sleeping bags.

Please drop off any extra blankets you may have ASAP to the Food Bank which is open until noon, or at Salvation Army, open until 1pm.

Or call Carol at 928-785-7187 and she'll find someone to help pick or deliver. Thank you in advance!

Wind Advisory for Quartzsite Thursday!

High winds, blowing dust could affect

driving in southwest Arizona

Reduced visibility, possible dust storms could slow traffic

PHOENIX — The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory for Thursday (Dec. 1) that could impact drivers traveling in southwest Arizona.

Strong sustained northern winds from 25 to 35 mph, including wind gusts up to 40 mph, are predicted to reach Yuma and La Paz counties.

The Arizona Department of Transportation urges motorists traveling on Interstate 10, Interstate 8 and US 95/State Route 95 to use extra caution due to possible difficult driving conditions as strong winds over desert areas can result in sudden periods of limited or zero visibility due to blowing dust.

Motorists play in important role in safety when operating their vehicles during a dust storm. ADOT and the Department of Public Safety recommend the following driving tips when encountering a low visibility dust storm.

▪ Check traffic immediately around your vehicle (front, back and to the side) and begin slowing down.
▪ Look for a safe place to pull completely off the paved portion of the roadway.
▪ Stop the vehicle in a position ensuring it is a safe distance from the main roadway and not near where any vehicles may travel.
▪ Turn off all vehicle lights.
▪ Set your emergency brake and take the foot off the brake.
▪ Stay in the vehicle with your seatbelts intact and wait for the storm to pass.

ADOT, along with DPS, will continue to work as a public safety team to support Arizona’s highways and drivers and will closely monitor conditions on the highways while maintaining driver safety.

Drivers planning trips tomorrow are urged to monitor travel conditions by calling 5-1-1 within Arizona, 1.888.411.ROAD outside the state, or via the Web at www.az511.gov. Because weather conditions can quickly evolve, drivers are encouraged to regularly check in with ADOT’s Traveler Information Service. Motorists should delay or detour travel plans if necessary.



EnviroMission engages Terracon for solar tower north of Quartzsite

EnviroMission Engages Terracon to Provide Initial Geotechnical Engineering Services for

Solar Tower Project north of Quartzsite

OLATHE, Kan. --- Terracon has been engaged by EnviroMission to provide initial geotechnical
engineering analysis, geo-seismic analysis and geotechnical consulting services for the Solar
Tower power station development in Arizona.

Terracon’s reports will inform and support Solar Tower front end engineering and design (FEED).
EnviroMission plans to build a major infrastructure power station that will use air heated by the
sun to drive turbines to generate enough renewable energy to power 150,000 homes in Arizona
and California. The iconic design will have a vast greenhouse with a tall central tower structure
that will be almost twice as tall as the Empire State Building. The proposed Solar Tower will offset 1 million metric tons of greenhouse gases per year and will abate the use of up to 1 billion gallons of potable water annually.
“Terracon is pleased to be a part of this ambitious and forward-thinking project from the ground
up,” said David Gaboury, P.E., Terracon President and CEO. “The solar tower technology should
offer significant advantages and produce clean, renewable power. We are proud to be a part of
EnviroMission’s vision.”

The following Terracon expertise is available to EnviroMission for future geotechnical engineering
services and reports:
• Subsurface Exploration and Testing
• Geophysical Testing
• Geotechnical and Materials Laboratory Testing
• Foundation Analysis and Design for Shallow and Deep Foundations
• In-situ Testing and Performance Monitoring
• Dynamic Analysis and Evaluation
• Soil Stabilization and Ground Improvement
• Pavement Evaluation and Design, Subgrade Evaluation and Material Evaluation

The preliminary geotechnical engineering report prepared by Terracon in October 2011 will
provide the basis for a further geotechnical engineering study planned for first quarter 2012 and
the final geotechnical engineering report for final design and construction.
“Terracon’s reports will contribute to important geotechnical analysis that will go to the heart of all
site-specific Solar Tower engineering and design decisions,” said Roger Davey, EnviroMission
chief executive. “EnviroMission engaged Terracon to bring the highest standard of geotechnical
survey and due diligence to ensure every engineering and design decision made by
EnviroMission’s executive project engineers is supported by technically accurate site data and
analysis.”

EnviroMission:
EnviroMission Limited is a public listed Australian company on the ASX (Australian Securities Exchange - ASX Code: EVM) and on the OTCQX foreign securities platform in the United States (OTCQX Code: EVOMY). EnviroMission is the global developer of the Australian Solar Tower renewable energy power station concept being commercialised in the United States. EnviroMission (USA) Inc, a 100% owned subsidiary of EnviroMission Limited, provides local management and representation for EnviroMission in the U.S. market. Solar Tower power station technology is large-scale installed capacity electricity generation technology, to deliver sustainable clean electricity to the wholesale electricity market. For additional information please visit http://www.enviromission.com.au/

Terracon:
Terracon is an employee-owned engineering consulting firm with more than 2,700 employees providing geotechnical, environmental, construction materials and facilities services from more than 130 offices in 39 states nationwide. Terracon currently ranks 38th on Engineering News-Record’s List of Top 500 Design Firms. For additional information about Terracon, please visit http://www.terracon.com/.

Arizona Attorney General's Top Tips for Holiday Shopping

With the first big day of the holiday shopping season

coming on “Black Friday,”

November 25, followed by “Cyber Monday” on November 28,

 Attorney General Tom Horne

today offered his top tips for holiday shoppers.

Attorney General Tom Horne’s

Top Tips for Holiday Shopping

(1) Bring ads for sales and “special deals” with you to the store.
Advertising a set of sales or “deals” and refusing to honor the terms of the advertisement is deceptive advertising and illegal in Arizona. Consumers using holiday sales and coupons should be careful that the specials advertised match what is advertised in stores.
Consider bringing ads with you to the store to see if prices charged match advertised prices. Read all fine print or disclosures before making your purchase. When checking out, watch the cash register display to be sure the scanned price matches the advertised or posted price. Check your receipt for accuracy before leaving the store. If you have pricing questions, ask to see the store’s pricing error policy.

(2) Understand the new rules for gift cards.
Gift cards issued by merchants (single or group, i.e. chain stores) and those issued by financial institutions (many with Visa, American Express, MasterCard and Discover brand logos) will have to follow new guidelines recently set up by Congress. Under the Credit Card Act of 2009, limitations have been placed on fees and expiration dates for gift cards. Service fees can no longer be charged until the card has been inactive for 12 months and only after that time can one fee be charged per month. Fee details and terms need to be disclosed clearly and conspicuously prior to purchase. Also, gift cards now carry an expiration date of at least 5 years from the date of purchase or the date the card was last reloaded with funds. Make sure you understand any terms or details disclosed about any fee or expiration date prior to purchasing your gift card.

(3) Do online shopping at secure Web sites.
Using secure Web sites will help ensure that personal information, such as your name, address and credit card number, is transmitted to the merchant safely, without being intercepted by a third party. You can identify secure Web sites by looking for Web addresses that begin with “https” and check for a small padlock icon at the bottom of the page. Also look for SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificates which allow for safe browsing and purchasing (“VeriSign” is a commonly used SSL). Credit cards are still preferred over debit cards for online shopping security.

(4) Watch out for restocking fees.
Certain stores will charge you a percentage of the price for “restocking” an item that you return for refund or credit. These fees most often apply to larger purchases such as furniture, electronic equipment or appliances. If a business charges a restocking fee, it should disclose the fee in print advertising and promotional materials as well as post a clearly visible notice disclosing the fee and how consumers can obtain the full restocking fee policy. Before making a purchase, ask if the store charges a restocking fee. If so, make sure you understand the full cost and restocking policy.

(5) Save all receipts, warranties and service agreements.
Keeping printed copies of receipts, warranties and service agreements helps you negotiate any refunds or exchanges should you have a problem or decide to return the product.
During the time of purchase, request warranties and service contracts in writing and save receipts from all of your purchases. Bring them with you if you need a refund, exchange or repair.

(6) Be cautious of toys bought for children.
Make sure you read all labels and fine print on packages of toys purchased for children. Many toys are meant for children of certain ages and may contain small pieces hazardous to very young children. Also, to verify that the toy you have bought is safe, you can check the Consumer Product Safety Commission, http://www.cpsc.gov for more information.

(7) Travel safe this holiday season.
As you are booking your travel to see family this holiday season, take caution when booking through agents and online Web sites. Make sure you are working with a legitimate travel agent and remember, if the deal sounds too good to be true, it most likely is. It never hurts to take extra time researching a company or business online before using their service. Major airlines and travel companies often offer coupons and discounts while traveling over the holidays – be mindful of the small print and details regarding when purchase needs to be made and when travel dates are valid.

(8) Seasonal Employment Opportunities.
Many consumers seek seasonal employment to earn more cash during the holiday season. Be mindful of the employer you seek work from and make sure you are familiar with the company and its seasonal employment policies. Use caution when seeking employment from online job boards. Online employment boards may display employment opportunities that do not exist only as a means to obtain information from potential candidates. Use caution when providing identifying information over the internet and research companies that may not be familiar to you. Most job boards, such as Craigslist, allow users to report advertisements that are bogus are fraudulent.

If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, please contact the Attorney General's Office in Phoenix at 602.542.5763; in Tucson at 520.628.6504; or outside the Phoenix and Tucson metro areas at 1.800.352.8431. To file a complaint in person, the Attorney General’s Office has satellite offices throughout the state with volunteers available to help. Locations and hours of operation are posted on the Attorney General’s Web site, www.azag.gov. Consumers can also file complaints online by visiting http://www.azag.gov/consumer/complaintform.html.

Occupy Small Business Saturday Quartzsite!

Turning the American economy around in one day

PHOENIX, Ariz.,—The facts are indisputable, the opportunity right before us—right now, said Farrell Quinlan, Arizona state director for National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), a group for the true engine of the American economy.

“There is only one way out of this recession, and that’s when small businesses – not big corporations – start ringing up sales. Period!” said Quinlan, who is calling on Arizonans to reserve the day after Black Friday for a trip to their nearest small business to make a purchase or two.

Indeed, all the evidence bears Quinlan out. In its latest Small Business Profiles for States and Territories, the U.S. Small Business Administration pegs small-business employers as constituting 97 percent of all of Arizona’s employers, providing almost half of all private-sector jobs.

But Quinlan’s group, the National Federation of Independent Business, which has been The Voice of Small Business since 1943, has been doing its own research on issues particular to small businesses for seven decades. In its latest NFIB Small-Business Optimism Index, a key bellwether economic measurement used by Federal Reserve chairmen and Congress, it found the No. 1 problem facing small businesses continuing to be “poor sales,” followed by government regulations and taxes.

“Small Business Saturday is about Main Street, not Wall Street,” writes Dan Danner, president and CEO of NFIB. “It’s about entrepreneurs and families selling things that the chains and e-commerce companies aren’t. Only small businesses can offer truly unique gifts and the most genuinely friendly customer service. Small Business Saturday is also about supporting the local economy. The chain stores are owned by bigger companies that are probably based somewhere other than your hometown, but small businesses are usually owned by your neighbors. When you shop at a small business, you’re supporting your local economy and your local job base.”

Small Business Saturday is a concept started by American Express last year. NFIB is helping encourage its adaptation into a longer-term theme. Quinlan, however, qualified his piggybacking on an unrelated hot topic, “I just want people to occupy a small business on Saturday long enough to make a purchase so others may occupy that small business.”

Extreme Couponing in Quartzsite for youth

"EXTREME COUPONING"

SPEND A LITTLE....
SAVE A LOT...
& HELP A CHILD

The Youth Group of Quartzsite Alliance Church (QAC), with the generosity of many Quartzsite merchants and vendors, has put together a "Coupon Card" that will be available by mid Dec. The card will cost $10 and there will only be 1000 of them printed, so watch for the Youth Group at participating businesses, and buy a few!! These discount cards will make a great gift for friends and neighbors. If you're a merchant who couldn't participate with a discount at this time, perhaps you'd like to buy a few cards for special customers as a "little something" gift. The cards are good until May, and each discount is a "multi-use", not just a one-time use....What A Deal!!


A huge thanks goes to the following businesses for their participation. They are: Lifestyles RV, Burger King, Q-Town Cafe, Quartzsite Beauty Salon, Hwy 95 Jerky/Deli Store, La Casa Del Rancho Cafe, Herb's Hardware, Palo Verde Cafe, The Main St. Eatery, K & B Tools, & Gran'ma's Apple Pie.

The funds from this fund raiser will be used to take Quartzsite youth to a Christian Rally at Disney Land, with an afternoon at Disney Land., but also, some great basic Bible teaching.

If you have any questions or would like to reserve your cards now, please call our
Youth Pastor, Jeremiah Holcomb at 928-916-9571 or
call Jeannie Helms at 916-833-7232.

Thanks again Quartzsite for your help and support of our youth!

Jeannie Helms-QAC

Quartzsite Solar Energy tower public meeting, Dec. 14

BLM Offers Public the Chance to Comment

on Solar Power Project in Western Arizona

Quartzsite, Ariz. – The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the Western Area Power Administration today released the draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the proposed Quartzsite Solar Energy Project.

The release of the draft EIS begins a 90-day period in which the public can comment on the proposed project and the proposed amendment to the BLM Yuma Field Office Resource Management Plan. The comment period ends Feb. 10, 2012.

Public meetings on the project are scheduled:

Dec. 14 ~ 12-2 p.m. at the QIA

Quartzsite Improvement Association (QIA) Building
235 East Ironwood Street
Quartzsite, AZ 85346

Quartzsite Solar Energy, LLC, a subsidiary of SolarReserve, LLC, proposes to construct a 100-megawatt solar-powered electrical generation facility in La Paz County, Arizona. The project is proposed on 1,675 acres on BLM-administered land 10 miles north of Quartzsite and adjacent to Arizona State Route 95.

The proposed project would use concentrating solar “power tower” technology to capture the sun’s heat to make steam, which would power traditional steam turbine generators.

The public may also submit their comments by mail or by e-mail. Written comments can be sent to: Liana Reilly, NEPA Document Manager, Western Area Power Administration, P.O. Box 281213, Lakewood, CO 80228-8213. Emails may be sent to QuartzsiteSolarEIS@wapa.gov.

For a great story on this project visit: http://www.yumasun.com/news/blm-74500-solar-project.html

Rockin' in Quartzsite - A Celebration of the Arts Sat. Nov. 5, 5-8pm

Quartzsite, AZ- Proud Neighbors of Quartzsite (PNQ) presents “Rockin’ Reveal” Artist Reception on Sat. Nov. 5th at the “Rock Motel”, Tyson Wells Show grounds, 100 W. Kuehn. Get a sneak peak at the beautiful Rock Art before they hit the town !

 The 3rd Annual "Rockin' in Quartzsite-A Celebration of the Arts" is a free event

Pictured here is one of the new Rock Art Pieces! Just amazing work! Don't miss out seeing them all together Sat. night! Refreshments will be served.


Attendees will once again vote for their favorite Rock Art. The 2010-11 People’s Choice winner was “Water in the Desert” painted by Jo Stoltz.

The Rock Art will be displayed throughout the winter season followed by the Rock Auction on March 3rd. Funds raised support local organizations. Check out the fun this Saturday 5-8pm at the Rock Motel!

Memorial for Quartzsite town employee, Gary Lynn Howell

GARY LYNN HOWELL

Gary Lynn Howell passed away at home from heart failure on October 31, 2011. He is survived by his loving wife, Tona and his children, Shon, Millie, Gary Jr., Robert, Amanda, and Angie. He also has 11 grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Marvin, Danny and Trudy.

A Memorial Service will be held at 10am on Monday, November 7th

at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, located at

455 S. Riggles Rd., Quartzsite.

Gary was a loving and devoted husband and father. He served more than 26 years in the Army and Army Reserve. He loved his home and country. At the time of his death, he was working for the Town of Quartzsite as Code Enforcement. He loved living in Quartzsite. He loved people and people loved him back.

There will be a Summerland Farewell for friends and family at Gary’s home (645 Spring Lane) at 6pm for a final sendoff. Parker Funeral Home Dignity Memorial has taken care of details. 928-669-2156


PLACED BY TONA HOWELL, WIFE. 801-718-8322.