Planned power outages for Quartzsite - Sunday, June 2nd

Quartzsite - APS announced planned Power outages for Quartzsite on Sunday, June 2nd. 

The first will be at 6 am for 5 minutes. 

The second will be at 10 pm for 5 minutes.

River Medical offers FREE CPR training in Quartzsite, May 22nd

River Medical Offers Free CPR Training on May 22 

to Save Lives as Part of Nationwide Community Initiative

If a person crumpled to the ground near you, would you know what to do? If you checked for a pulse and found that their heart had stopped, what would you do next?

 

On May 22, in observation of National Emergency Medical Services Week, River Medical, an American Medical Response (AMR) company, will join multiple AMR operations across the country  to train as many people as possible to save lives through chest compression-only CPR. Compression-only CPR is easy, less invasive and has the ability to keep a cardiac arrest victim alive during the precious minutes until first responders can arrive.

“While our first responders often can get to an emergency within minutes, during cardiac arrest seconds can be critical,” said John Valentine, General Manager of River Medical. “This type of CPR can help save lives and is easy to perform. We hope that schools, businesses and other groups will take this opportunity to get trained in compression-only CPR at no cost, making our community an even safer place to live.”

Compression-only CPR takes less than two minutes to learn and can drastically improve the chances of survival of a person suffering from cardiac arrest.  According to the American Heart Association, compression-only CPR allows bystanders to keep life-saving blood flowing through a victim’s body just by pressing on the chest in a hard, fast rhythm. It does not require mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and has been found to be effective in saving lives.

 River Medical has partnered with schools, local businesses and other interested groups to teach the compression-only CPR technique, which takes less than 2 minutes to learn.  River Medical would like to offer a special thank you to Tri-State Careflight, Native Air, Guardian Air, Quartzite Fire Department and Northern Arizona Consolidated Fire District for assisting River Medical in this community CPR initiative.  Our agencies will be at the following locations on May 22^nd:

Quartzite:   Quartzite Community Center -  8am-5pm

Lake Havasu Locations                                                          Kingman Locations

                        MCC Room 108                                             Smith’s Grocery

                        ASU Campus, Santiago Room 105                Safeway

                        Aquatic Center, Rm 155/156                         KRMC Wellness Center

                        Lake Havasu High, Old Gym                         KRMC Professional Building

                        Basha’s Grocery

                        Smith’s Grocery

                        Albertson’s Grocery

                        London Bridge Racquet/Fitness

To find out more about compression-only CPR and find out how your group can be part of this event, please visit www.worldcprchallenge.com  or call Jennifer Richards at 928-854-8554. 

                       

American Medical Response Inc. (www.amr.net), America’s leading provider of medical transportation, provides services in 42 states and the District of Columbia. More than 17,000 AMR paramedics, EMTs, RNs and other professionals, with a fleet of 4,100 vehicles, transport more than three million patients nationwide each year in critical, emergency and non-emergency situations. AMR, a subsidiary of Emergency Medical Services Corporation, is headquartered in Greenwood Village, Colo.

Pavement maintenance scheduled this week east of Quartzsite

Pavement maintenance scheduled next week on I-10 east of Quartzsite

Pavement maintenance scheduled this week on I-10 east of Quartzsite

Motorists advised to plan ahead and allow extra travel time

Arizona Department of Transportation maintenance crews will begin asphalt repairs along a 22-mile segment of Interstate 10 east of Quartzsite beginning Monday, May 13 through May 24.

What to expect:

• Work will take place weekdays between 5 a.m. - 7 p.m.

• One lane will be restricted in each direction from mileposts 30-52.

• Motorists are advised to plan ahead and allow extra travel time.

• Message boards will be displayed to inform drivers of lane restrictions.

• Law enforcement will be on-site to control traffic and monitor speeds.

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.

For more information, please visit www.azdot.gov/statewide or contact the Project Hotline at 1-855-712-8530, or email at Projects@azdot.gov. 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.

Quartzsite's Jennifer "Jade" Jones fired from Planning and Zoning Commission

By Shanana Rain Golden-Bear

Quartzsite, Arizona - In a 5 minute Special Meeting held today at 1 pm, the only item on the agenda was "to rescind the appointment of Jennifer Jones from the Planning and Zoning Commission."

For the first time, Jones offered the invocation, which surprised many in attendance. Foster said there might be another lawsuit, and suggested they adjourn and not take any action. Council Member Mark Orgeron made the motion, and Council Member Mike Jewitt seconded.

Jewitt sponsored the item and had originally nominated Jones for the Commission. Jewitt stated he "did so in the hope that involving her in the governance of the town, it would possibly help her to understand how the Town is run. It seems I was wrong."

The Quartzsite Town Council voted 4 - 2, with Foster and Pat Workman voting nay. (1 vacant seat)

Late Tuesday, Jones "served" a Notice of Claim to the Town of Quartzsite. The special meeting was called Wednesday morning. See below for details:

Jones Notice of Claim



Another interesting document for today's meeting reveals that Jones has still not filed her Campaign Committee Termination Statement for the May 2012 election: 

Quartzsite & Jones campaign finance issues


Another document (see below) released to Quartzsite Town Council members today reveals Jones' emails sent to Arizona Attorney General's Office communicating as a Planning and Zoning Commissioner. Bruno states Jones "should have provided a copy of her email to the Town Clerk's office as well as to the other P & Z Commission members."  

Jones communication with AZ AG's office



In a Facebook posting earlier this week, Jones openly advocated to "recycle the 'Mess' [Desert Messenger, Quartzsite's FREE Community Paper] by the bundle and the armload".  Desert Messenger, the publisher and contributing photographer are often targets in Jones' editorials, articles and political cartoons. 

Jones publishes a tabloid in Quartzsite, however she holds no business license. She has stated multiple times that she doesn't need a license to "give away free papers." However, Quartzsite Town Code 8-2-1 states, "It is unlawful for any person to carry on any trade, calling, profession, or business... without first having procured a license from the town." 

Nationally there have been over 500,000 copies of free student newspapers stolen since 2000, according to records complied by the Student Press Law Center. Colorado law makers are currently considering a bill to reclassify the theft of free newspapers. 

Being such a vocal proponent of Free Speech, and a publisher of a free paper, surely Jones must be aware of the many articles against newspaper theft listed on First Amendment Center's website:  http://www.firstamendmentcenter.org/tag/newspaper-theft

La Paz County Task Force power struggles

At March 18th's meeting of La Paz County Board of Supervisors' meeting, newly elected Sheriff John Drum read a letter into the record regarding the county's Task Force. The letter was then published on the Internet at www.Parkerliveonline.com.  Quartzsite Police Chief Jeff Gilbert responded with a statement. Drum issued a statement in response. The letters are below in order of appearance. 


La Paz County Sheriff John Drum's letter to County Supervisors:

"I am here today to talk with you about the La Paz County Task Force. When La Paz County broke away from Yuma in 1983, we didn’t have a Narcotics Task Force. Our officers handled drug cases as they occurred and the only drug enforcement we had within our County was coordinated by the Arizona Department of Public Safety.

Recognizing that we needed to be more than “reactive”, the La Paz County Narcotics Task Force was established. It was hosted by the Sheriff’s Office and consisted of the Sheriff’s Office, AZ DPS, Parker Police and the CRIT Police Department.

During that time, the Task Force was funded by a grant with the Arizona Criminal Justice Commission (ACJC). This grant paid for four Detective’s salaries (for a total of $140,000 per year) and it allowed the local agencies to dedicate officers to a group that could focus on narcotic activity and organized crime.

As the County grew, so did the need for a more aggressive approach to fighting drug sales and trafficking. In 2002, the La Paz County Task Force became part of the HIDTA (High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas) initiative and added the Quartzsite Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. HIDTA is a nationwide initiative that provided the Unit with $110,000 per year and the intelligence/assistance needed to keep up with the new trends observed coming out of the larger cities and Mexico.

By 2009, the Task Force, which was commanded and controlled by the La Paz County Sheriff’s Office, and was receiving approximately $250,000 a year in grants, we had a successful I.G.A. with the Colorado River Indian Tribes and we were recognized by the President of the United States for our pro-active approach to dismantling drug trafficking organizations within the C.R.I.T. reservation. We also were averaging 190 major felony cases per year and the communities/towns across La Paz County noticed a significant decrease in the amount of “local drug dealers” within our communities.

In July of 2010, the Sheriff’s Department relinquished command of the Narcotics Task Force. Since that time, we have noticed a significant decrease in drug enforcement across the County, we lost the I.G.A. with the Colorado River Indian Tribes, we have lost both the ACJC and the HIDTA grants totaling in $250,000 per year and there were a total of only 56 cases investigated in 2012.

Being a retired Law Enforcement officer (Narcotics Detective), I know what it takes to re-build and sustain the Narcotics Task Force. It is my intention to re-establish command and control of unit so we can recover the grants and begin working with other agencies to bring us back to where we need to be.

There is a lot of speculation around the community that it is my intention to dismantle the Task Force to build my own unit. That is not entirely true; my plan is to put together an effective Task Force that stays focused on the overall objective without self-interest and politics getting in the way. If the Parker Police Department and the Quartzsite Police Department would like to join us, I would like the local agencies to come together with C.R.I.T., the Department of Public Safety, the Drug Enforcement Administration and Border Patrol so we can share personnel, resources, and funding to create a Task Force that everyone in La Paz County can be proud of."

Quartzsite Police Chief Jeff Gilbert released the following statement Thursday night:

"On March 18, 2013, a letter was read into the record at the La Paz County Board of Supervisor’s meeting by Sheriff John Drum regarding the La Paz County Task Force.  The statements made by Sheriff Drum are mostly inaccurate and very misleading.

In October, 2007, La Paz County, The Town of Parker and the Town of Quartzsite entered into a new Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) establishing the La Paz County Anti-Drug and Racketeering Enforcement Task Force know as CADRE.  The new IGA became effective with all three governing bodies agreeing to a term of five (5) years with an automatic renewal of another five years unless otherwise terminated by the parties.  The IGA automatically renewed at the beginning of 2013 for a new five year period.

I have served on the CADRE Board of Directors for nearly eight years as the Chief of Police for the Town of Quartzsite.  Before that time I served as the Operations Lieutenant for the Task Force for a period of two years from 2001-2003, while employed with the Colorado River Indian Tribes Police Department.  Before that time I regularly participated at the monthly meetings as a representative for the CRIT Police Department during my ten year tenure.

For more than fifteen years, I have personally witnessed and participated in a Task Force that had one common goal as an objective.  This one common goal was to be effective in combating the illegal drug activities in La Paz County, the Town of Quartzsite, the Town of Parker and the CRIT Reservation.  We did not draw lines in the sand.

What Sheriff Drum has presented to the Board of Supervisors and the community members of La Paz County with his statement is nothing short of drawing a “line in the sand”.  He has presented an ultimatum to the Town of Quartzsite and the Town of Parker to “join him” along with C.R.I.T., the Department of Public Safety, the Drug Enforcement Administration and Border Patrol to “create a Task Force that everyone in La Paz County can be proud of.”

Maybe Sheriff Drum has not been in office long enough to realize that we already have a Task Force that all the communities of La Paz County “are” proud of.  We are already working collectively and cooperatively with AZ DPS, DEA, Border Patrol, HIDTA, and our Board just recently met last week with representatives of C.R.I.T. to discuss final terms of a new IGA with them.  

You have my commitment as the Chief of Police for the Quartzsite Police Department to continue working with the Parker Police Department and Chief Mendoza, alongside the La Paz County Attorney Tony Rogers, to continue to keep our current Task Force strong and effective.  I hope that Sheriff Drum decides not to let his “self-interest and politics” get in his way of doing the same.  For no one agency can handle the job that needs to be done alone.

Jeff Gilbert, Chief of Police
Quartzsite Police Department

La Paz County Sheriff John Drum's response:

"I would like to respond to Chief Gilbert’s response to the letter I read to the Board of Supervisors on March 18th, 2013. None of the statements in this letter are misleading or inaccurate.

Let’s start with HIDTA and ACJC: I met with Chief Mendoza on March 21st and we discussed this very thing. When the La Paz County Sheriff’s Office ran the Task Force, the Task Force was receiving funding from HIDTA and ACJC. Since the CADRE took over the HIDA and ACJC funding was lost. This is fact not misleading or inaccurate. There may be a play in words here. HIDTA was suspended. This means there is no funds coming to La Paz County because of this, so when I said “lost” the funding; I meant it is not there anymore.

It is clearly obvious the productivity of the Task Force is way down since the CADRE took over. What I drafted in the letter were stats received from the CADRE and Task Force. Nothing misleading or inaccurate stated here.

When Chief Gilbert was a Lieutenant overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Task Force between 2001 and 2003, the Task Force was being run by the Sheriff’s Office. The Task Force was going broke during this time and he and the Sheriff’s Office Command were extremely frugal with the funds. After he left the Task Force, all Local, State, and Federal Agencies began to participate in a cooperative manner. This resulted in large narcotic and currency seizures. The Currency Seizures over a six year period ran into millions of dollars. This is a fact not misleading or inaccurate.

I am aware there is a CADRE or Task Force in this county. I was able to attend a Task Force meeting when I was a County Supervisor. Without going into detail, I knew then the CADRE was BROKEN!

Since 2010 when the CADRE took over, the funds in the Task Force have depleted dramatically. Chief Gilbert was in the Task Force when it was almost broke and now the same thing is on the horizon. I told my constituents if I was elected Sheriff I would make a Task Force that is accountable. This means more productivity, increased personnel and fiscal responsibility.

I want all of us to work together and I welcome the participation of all agencies interested. This matter will be resolved with all of us coming together as Department Heads.

Respectfully,

Sheriff John Drum

La Paz County Sheriff

Happy 101st Birthday, Arizona!

Enjoy the beautiful Arizona State Anthem

"I Love you, Arizona"

Sung by Rex Allen Jr.

I love you, Arizona;
Your mountains, deserts and streams;
The rise of Dos Cabezas
And the outlaws I see in my dreams;

I love you Arizona,
Superstitions and all;
The warmth you give at sunrise;
Your sunsets put music in us all.

Oo, Arizona;
You're the magic in me;
Oo, Arizona,
You're the life-blood of me;

I love you Arizona;
Desert dust on the wind;
The sage and cactus are blooming,
And the smell of the rain on your skin.

Oo, Arizona;
You're the magic in me;
Oo, Arizona,
You're the life-blood of me.

Oo, Arizona;
You're the magic in me;
Oo, Arizona,
You're the life-blood of me.

Arizona became a state on Valentine's Day, February 14, 2012. 

Quartzsite celebrated the Arizona Centennial year-round

with monthly events, parties, music, gatherings, and lots of fun. 

Happy 101st Birthday, Arizona!

Congressman Paul Gosar Staff to visit Quartzsite, Feb. 26th

Rep. Paul Gosar Staff to Hold Office Hours in Wellton, Apache Junction, Kingman and Quartzsite

PRESCOTT, AZ– Congressman Paul Gosar, D.D.S (AZ-04) announced that his staff will be holding office hours in Wellton, Apache Junction, and Kingman on February 19^th. Staff will also hold office hours at the library in Quartzsite on February 26^th.     

Staff will answer questions and provide help with the Veterans Administration and veterans’ benefits, social security, issues with federal agencies, including the Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, or issues with the Department of Health and Human Services, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and other federal agencies.

TUESDAY, FEB. 19, 2013

TOWN OF WELLTON OFFICE HOURS TIME: 2:00pm - 5:00pm
LOCATION: Town of Wellton Town Hall
28634 Oakland Avenue
Wellton, AZ 85356

APACHE JUNCTION OFFICE HOURS
TIME: 3:00pm-6:00pm
LOCATION: Apache Junction Public Library 1177 N. Idaho Road
Apache Junction, AZ 85119

KINGMAN OFFICE HOURS
TIME: 1:00pm-4:00pm
LOCATION: Kingman City Engineering Office
230 N. Street Kingman, AZ 86401

TUESDAY, FEB. 26, 2013

QUARTZSITE OFFICE HOURS

TIME: 11:00am-2:00pm

LOCATION: Quartzsite Library

465 N. Plymouth Ave.
Quartzsite, AZ 85346

Congressman Gosar remains committed to being open, accessible, and responsive to his constituents.  Whether it is at a listening session, on the phone, via email, or out in the district, he wants to encourage everyone to share their ideas on how we can find solutions to the problems that face our country.

http://gosar.house.gov/

Quartzsite Town Council plans special meeting Mon. Jan. 28 at 2pm

Quartzsite Town Council will hold a special meeting 

MONDAY, JANUARY 28, 2013 at 2:00 pm

Three items on the agenda are regarding the Planning and Zoning Commission.

1.  Members of the Planning and Zoning Commission serve at the pleasure of the Council.
At the Discretion of the council, terminate all current appointments to the Planning and
Zoning Commission.  Mark Orgeron, Council Member

2.  Discussion and Interview of applicants to serve on the Planning and Zoning Commission.  Mark Orgeron, Council Member

3.  Discussion and possible appointment of members to the Planning and Zoning
Commission.         Mark Orgeron, Council Member


4.  Executive Session:
•  An executive session pursuant to A.R.S.§ 38-431.03(A)(3) for discussion or consultation for legal advice with Special Counsel for the Town regarding an employment contract with Police Chief Jeff Gilbert dated February 8, 2011.
•  An executive session pursuant to A.R.S.§ 38-431.03(A)(4) for discussion or consultation with Special Counsel for the Town in order to consider its position and instruct Special Counsel regarding the Town's position regarding an employment contract with Police Chief Jeff Gilbert dated February 8, 2011.



The online agenda does not have the time posted nor is it signed by the Town Clerk. Discussions held at the Jan. 22nd Council meeting infer the council wants to "release" the whole volunteer Planning & Zoning Board and start all over, but current members may reapply. Interim Town Manger and the council agreed the meeting to discuss P & Z would be held Wed. Jan. 30th.

   However, Desert Messenger confirmed that five of the seven board members did not receive phone calls from Town Hall notifying them of the change to the Monday meeting until late Friday afternoon. Calls were placed from Town Hall between 3:41 pm - 4:13 pm Friday. There are only seven Volunteer Interest Forms posted online for the seven P & Z seats available. The Volunteer Interest Forms for the current five board members were NOT included.

Can the council include the currently seated Commissions in Monday's discussion if their Interest Forms were excluded from the council packet?

It was also confirmed that at least one council member was not notified the council packet was ready until about 4:15 pm Friday afternoon.

TOWN OF QUARTZSITE  Planning and Zoning Commission Membership Roster 

                    Last Council  Approved          Last Council  Approved    Term Status

                    Term Start                              Term End                     

Bearcat, Starr            August 2010                August 2013                         Current
Bowman, Barbara      August 2010                August 2013                         Current
Kiss, Violet               November 2009           March 2012                          Term Exp
Kuehl, Dennis            November 2012           January 2015                        Current
Murphy, James          June 2007                    June 2010                             Term Exp
Ross,  Doug              October 2010              October 2013                        Current
Wall, Dennis              February 2012             None                                    Current

   
For the full agenda visit:    http://ci.quartzsite.az.us/Support%20Docs/Council_NTS_AGD/2013/012813%20Special%20Meeting%20Agenda.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

Prescribed burn at Sandy Cove, Cibola, south of Quartzsite

Prescribed Burn at 

Hippy Hole/Sandy Cove

Yuma, Ariz. – The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) plans to burn brush piles in the Sandy Cove area (also known as Hippy Hole) located along the east side of the Colorado River in La Paz County, Arizona.  The site is located immediately east of the Colorado River, two miles west of the community of Cibola, Arizona.  Burning may begin as early as Friday, January 25, 2013, and will continue until all of the piles have been burned.  The start date and time for the burning operation depends on weather and may be delayed until appropriate conditions occur.  The prescribed burning of the piles will be conducted over a 1-4 day period.

There are a total of 9 piles of brush that will be burned in a 14-acre area south of Sandy Cove.

The piles are expected to burn down quickly.  Smoke should disperse out of the area in a short period of time.  Residents should expect some light smoke in the area during the burn operation. 

For public safety reasons, La Paz County mechanically cleared vegetation in the Sandy Cove area and placed the vegetation in brush piles last spring.  The brush piles include tamarisk, arrowweed, cottonwood, and bulrush/cattail.   

This prescribed burn is a joint venture with BLM, La Paz County, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 

The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land – the most of any Federal agency.  This land, known as the National System of Public Lands, is primarily located in 12 Western states, including Alaska.  The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation.  In Fiscal Year (FY) 2011, recreational and other activities on BLM-managed land contributed more than $130 billion to the U.S. economy and supported more than 600,000 American jobs.  The Bureau is also one of a handful of agencies that collects more revenue than it spends.  In FY 2012, nearly $5.7 billion was generated on lands managed by the BLM, which operates on a $1.1 billion budget.  The BLM's multiple-use mission is to sustain the health and productivity of the public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.  The Bureau accomplishes this by managing such activities as outdoor recreation, livestock grazing, mineral development, and energy production, and by conserving natural, historical, cultural, and other resources on public lands.

Rumor control in Quartzsite - Successful Desert Gardens Show!

Information from Desert Gardens Holdings, LLC - General Manager

It has been brought to my attention that based on the improvements to the Show Grounds vendor space rental fee would be raised and that the Gems, Rocks and Minerals Show are not going well.  The facts are as follows:

a.      The property improvements were completed to provide better facilities for the vendors, visitors and to enhance the appearance of Desert Gardens and the Community.

b.      I do not intend to increase the space rental fees during the season.

c.      The current vendor space rental fee is $440.00 per month plus electricity during prime time and $225.00 per month before and after the show.

d.      A contract option is being added – the space rental fee for a 5 month period (November 1^st – the last day in February) will be $1500.00 ($300.00 per month) plus electricity.  Those who accept this option will be locked in for two additional seasons.  Also, the last week of October will be for set-up at no charge to the vendor.

e.      According to the many vendors I have spoken with, the show is going quite well, they are making sales and they are very pleased.

Should there be any questions regarding Desert Gardens Holdings 

please contact me at 623-606-0053.

http://www.desertgardensrvpark.net/

Dennis Kuehl

Quartzsite Welcomes Snowbirds 2013

Quartzsite, Arizona  welcomes Snowbirds back 

for another great winter! 

The weather is warming just in time for all the shows opening! 

Vendors are lining the streets, shows and swap meets, displaying their wares.

RVers are filling the RV Parks and BLM lands.

Restaurants had their busiest night of the season last night!

RV Rallies are having their gatherings in the Sonoran Desert!

RV dealers are ready with specials this year!

Tyson Wells Sell-a-rama opened today and runs thru JAN. 27th.

Hundreds of volunteers are gearing up for the largest Rock Show of its Kind:

The QIA Pow Wow begins WED. JAN. 23 - SUN. JAN. 27

The Big Tent opens SAT. JAN. 19 and runs thru SUN. JAN. 27

For a full listing of shows, events, music jams, restaurants, and more...

 visit www.VisitQuartzsite.com 

Drive careful out there, folks! There's plenty of time to see it all!

Have fun and come see us again!

Check us out on Facebook:  LIKE www.facebook.com/DesertMessengerNews

Follow @QuartzsiteRain on Twitter 

Freeze warning for Quartzsite and southern Arizona

Freeze Warning In Effect from midnight MST /11 pm pst/ tonight to 5 pm MST /4 pm pst/ Sunday.

Freeze Watch now in effect from Sunday afternoon
through Tuesday morning.
The National Weather Service in Phoenix has issued a Freeze Warning, which is in effect from midnight MST /11 pm pst/ tonight to 5 pm MST /4 pm pst/ Sunday. The Freeze Watch is now in effect from Sunday afternoon through Tuesday morning.

• Affected area: the greater Phoenix area including all outlying suburbs, Wickenburg, Gila Bend, Quartzsite, Buckeye, Casa Grande and Coolidge.
• Temperature: around 30 in the urban areas, low to mid 20s in the outlying areas. Similar temperatures are expected Sunday night and Monday night but there is still some uncertainty if clouds move into the area.
• Impacts: Extended freezing temperatures could cause damage to plants, irrigation pipes, and water lines going into homes.

Recommended actions

A Freeze Warning means Sub-freezing temperatures are imminent or highly likely. These conditions will destroy or damage crops and other sensitive vegetation.

A Freeze Watch means Sub-freezing temperatures are possible. These conditions could destroy or damage crops and other sensitive vegetation.

Excerpted from ready.govBefore:

Before winter approaches, add the following supplies to your emergency kit:

• Rock salt or more environmentally safe products to melt ice on walkways. Visit the Environmental Protection Agency for a complete list of recommended products.
• Sand to improve traction.
• Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment.
• Sufficient heating fuel. You may become isolated in your home and regular fuel sources may be cut off. Store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood for your fireplace or wood-burning stove.
• Adequate clothing and blankets to keep you warm.

More about:

What to do before winter storms and extreme cold.

During:

Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow. Overexertion can bring on a heart attack - a major cause of death in the winter. If you must shovel snow, stretch before going outside.

Keep dry. Change wet clothing frequently to prevent a loss of body heat. Wet clothing loses all of its insulating value and transmits heat rapidly.

Watch for signs of frostbite. These include loss of feeling and white or pale appearance in extremities such as fingers, toes, ear lobes, and the tip of the nose. If symptoms are detected, get medical help immediately.

Conserve fuel, if necessary, by keeping your residence cooler than normal. Temporarily close off heat to some rooms.

More about:

What to do during winter storms and extreme cold.

What is a Freeze Warning?

A Freeze Warning is issued when significant, widespread freezing temperatures are expected. Minimum shelter temperature is forecast to be 32�F or less during the locally defined growing season. Source: nws.noaa.gov

Happy New Year Quartzsite!

As we enter the new year, and the old year fades behind us, I encourage everyone to embrace the peace of the season. This past year has brought many shades of sadness and challenges, but together we can move forward in the hopes of a better future for our community and beyond.


It's natural for us to look back upon the previous year, along with all our successes and learning experiences. When I reflect upon our community, I see that our volunteers are the heart of Quartzsite. Without Volunteers, our community would not be the beautiful place I call home. For a small town, the incredible amount of participation from volunteers is totally amazing! No where else can you see the level of volunteerism as in Quartzsite, Arizona!

Some of the places you'll find Volunteers in Quartzsite are:
The Quartzsite Improvement Association (QIA), Senior Center, Food Bank, Quartzsite Business Chamber of Commerce, Quartzsite Community Thrift Store, the Salvation Army, Citizens on Patrol (COP), Quartzsite Historical Society and Museum, La Paz County Search & Rescue, VFW Post 769, Operation Hero Comfort, Quartzsite Rotary, GFWC Women's Club, Proud Neighbors of Quartzsite (PNQ) Quartzsite Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition and Youth Coalition, Isaiah 58 Project, Friends of the Library, Quartzsite Art Guild,  Adults Sharing with Kids (ASK), Quilters Club, "Heart"ists, Boy Scout Troop,  Metal Detector Club, Roadrunner Gem and Mineral Club, Ham Radio Club, RC Flyers, PTA, Cactus Dodgers Dancers, Volunteer Parents at the Rec Program, our incredible BLM Camp Hosts and Volunteers, Musicians at all the Jams and Events, the countless Volunteers at RV Park events, RV Rally Organizers, Event Coordinators, and all our Church Volunteers who lovingly serve their congregations. There are other folks who generously give, supporting quietly behind the scenes, such as our local business owners and vendors.


Then there are the Quartzsite Residents serving on the municipal boards year-round: Hi Jolly Cemetery Board, Vendor Board, Parks Board, Health & Development Board, Library Board, Personnel Board, Municipal Utilities Board, Planning and Zoning Board, Municipal Property Board, Public Safety Retirement Board, and the Board of Adjustments. The Arizona Centennial Board recently completed their commission and provided the town with many events over the two years they were active. Funds raised provided metal camel silhouettes which will be placed in key locations around town... watch for three to be placed shortly at the new Community Center!

Volunteers do their work quietly, because they love serving their community. Of course, in every community there are those who love to complain, but do not participate in the joy of giving. Volunteers experience incredible gifts when they share freely of themselves.

I've heard it said, "there's just something special about Quartzsite..." Well, it's obviously the people. That's what makes Quartzsite so special. Our hundreds of volunteers who share their wisdom, strengths, and knowledge with others, encouraging each other along the way.

So as we welcome in a new year, let us remember to be kind to each other and thank the volunteers for their service to Quartzsite. Those of us who live full time in Quartzsite experience the blessings of our volunteers. Those visiting Quartzsite may marvel at how the heck can this little town handle the influx of millions of visitors. It's the volunteers... our amazing people!

I am so grateful to be living in a community where people smile at one another walking down the street, and strangers wave as I'm driving by. It's the simple things that make a difference!

I am so grateful for all of you!

Wishing you a wonderful New Year full of gratitude!

Shanana "Rain" Golden-Bear
Publisher/Editor Desert Messenger

VIDEO: Christmas in Quartzsite 2012

Greetings from sunny Quartzsite! 

Saturday, December 22nd, 2012 was Community Unity Day in Quartzsite! Organizers Gene and Maggie Ross gathered local folks from all walks of life to be Bell Ringers for our Salvation Army. Gene had already been busy for weeks, as Santa's helper, ringing that bell day in and day out, raising funds.

Also included in this video are Christmas light decorations from around town. (670 Olinger will be a dedicated separate video.)The beautiful flute music is from Quartzsite's own Mark Church. "Merry Christmas from Redfeather Rose Entertainment". http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DbnwoEYkYE8

When questioned about the importance of loose change donated, Gene said, "It all adds up. Just last week, there was about $400 of loose change donated! That will help a lot of people in Quartzsite!"

Funds raised stay in Quartzsite to help folks with vouchers for food, propane, & fuel at local businesses, rent, clothing and other emergency help to get folks back on their feet.

Maggie and Gene are very active members of the Covenant Lutheran Church, donating both money and lots of time for the community. This was a wonderful project and lots of folks volunteered to help.

The Gratitude Book Project 2013 hits #1 on Amazon!

THE GRATITUDE BOOK PROJECT 2013 -  

CELEBRATING 365 DAYS OF GRATITUDE 

I'm excited to announce that yesterday, 

December 19, 2012 the book reached 

#1 in "Hot New Releases" and 

#6 in the "Happiness" Category!

Thank you to Editor Donna Kozik, 

the 300 contributing authors and 

everyone who purchased the book yesterday! 

I'm grateful to be a co-author and Gratitude Ambassador!

A wave of gratitude is making its way around the world, 

and I'm so very honored to be a part of this project. 

Proceeds from national book sales will be split among three charitable organizations:

Feeding America, the ASPCA, and Women for Women International.

Besides supporting charitable organizations, this book is a great addition 

to your daily reading with a new message of 

gratitude for each day of the year.

What are you grateful for?

To get your copy, order online at amzn.to/ZEeAP8

Shanana "Rain" Golden-Bear,

Editor/Publisher, Desert Messenger,

Quartzsite, Arizona

Gratitude Book Project and Quartzsite

Have you heard of the 

Gratitude Book Project? 

It's finally here 

TODAY on Amazon.com!

THE GRATITUDE BOOK PROJECT: 

International Book Project 

Has More Than 300 People Sharing 

Their Stories of Gratitude, 

with National Book Sale Proceeds

Benefiting Three Charitable Organizations

I am so honored to be a co-author in The Gratitude Book Project: Celebrating 365 Days of Gratitude, a collaborative book sold on Amazon.com and featuring over 300 authors answering the question “What are you grateful for?” in 200 words or less. 

As publisher of Desert Messenger, Quartzsite's FREE Community Paper, I am so very grateful for the opportunity to participate in this project. Having an Attitude of Gratitude opens our hearts to possibilities unseen. 

The book features pieces of true stories of appreciation such as:

·       The soldier who skipped his nightly run—and saved his life

·        The nervous excitement of entering a classroom for the first time…as the teacher

·        The magic number tally of cars, kids and cats that make a marriage

·        The everyday front porch where everlasting love was found

·        The great vision and personal insights gained despite being blind

·        The treasured handwritten letters from grandparents to a frightened 18-year-old college freshman

·        The dad who laughs so hard when telling a joke he can’t get the punch line out

And 358 more stories of stopping to take say “thank you” to the good in life—and the “not so good” that makes us stronger.

PURCHASE TODAY AT http://amzn.to/ZEeAP8 

Shanana Rain Golden-Bear’s contribution to the book centers around how gratitude  helps when fear takes over.  “I wanted to participate in this project because our community has suffered so much recently. Gratitude can shift how we perceive the world around us and I wanted to share the joys of finding gratitude in simple ways,” said Golden-Bear.

In keeping with the spirit of the project, proceeds from national book sales will be split among three charitable organizations: FeedingAmerica, the ASPCA and Women for Women International.

For more information about “The Gratitude Book Project,” contact the co-author Shanana Rain Golden-Bear at Shanana@ChangeWithoutFear.com or Donna Kozik, coordinator of the project, at support@thegratitudebookproject.com or www.thegratitudebookproject.com.