
Fiddler on The Rock… UP and Coming from the Redrocks of Sedona! (Cover Story – June & July 2025)
Artists, Entertainment, Human InterestIn the heart of Sedona, Arizona, where red rock formations glow under the desert sun, Tyler Carson, known as the Fiddler on the Rock, captivates audiences with his violin. His music—a fusion of classical precision, folk fire, and global influences—resonates like the landscape itself: vast, vibrant, and deeply spiritual. From performing for massive audiences at age 11 to reclaiming his voice after a devastating loss, Carson’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and an unshakable connection to joy.

The Hollywood Connection – Celebrities of the Verde Valley
Human InterestThe Verde Valley, with its surreal red rock landscapes and Hollywood history, has drawn celebrities like Max Ernst, Maynard James Keenan, and Sam Pillsbury to its enchanting embrace, blending artistic inspiration with a quest for peace and new frontiers.

The Present and Future of Recycling in Phoenix
Human Interesthoenix, a rapidly growing city, produces an enormous amount of waste. Waste Management’s commitment to sustainability is vital to ensuring that future generations have access to the region’s natural beauty and resources. Their efforts to educate residents on responsible waste disposal—combined with technological innovations that allow them to sort waste more effectively—are setting a national standard for urban recycling programs.

Capturing Every Drop Of Water in the Phoenix Region
Human InterestArizona’s arid climate makes water storage a necessity. SRP utilizes a remarkable solution - underground water banking. Imagine storing 17 Saguaro Lakes worth of water - that’s the impressive amount SRP has banked underground since 1994! This acts as a vital safety net during droughts, allowing SRP to tap into these reserves when surface water sources are strained.

Lauren Sánchez, Katy Perry, and Gayle King Lead Blue Origin’s Historic All-Female Flight
Human InterestThis spring, Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket will launch from West Texas carrying an all-female crew led by Lauren Sánchez, alongside Katy Perry, Gayle King, Amanda Nguyen, Kerianne Flynn, and Aisha Bowe, marking the first all-women spaceflight since 1963. The historic 10-minute suborbital journey past the Kármán line, announced on February 27, 2025, reflects the Southwest’s legacy of bold exploration, inspiring communities across the region and beyond.

Old Town Cottonwood A Dozen Years of Transformation and Preservation
Human InterestVenture north from Phoenix via Interstate 17 for a scenic drive to Cottonwood, where the urban fades into the wild beauty of Arizona. This route quickly transitions from cityscape to sweeping desert plains, dotted with saguaros, before ascending through the picturesque Black Canyon. As you merge onto State Route 260, the landscape unfolds into the dramatic red rock country of the Verde Valley, guiding you to the quaint, artsy town of Cottonwood, nestled amidst nature’s splendor.

Discover the Allure of Arizona Wines at Vino Zona in Old Town Cottonwood
Entertainment, Human InterestVino Zona is redefining the Arizona wine experience, offering a curated journey through the finest locally sourced wines in three distinct locations—Jerome, Sedona, and Cottonwood. With a commitment to small-batch craftsmanship, historic ambiance, and a deep sense of community, owner Ginger Mackenzie has created a space where wine lovers can explore, connect, and savor Arizona’s rich winemaking heritage.

The Riordans – A Flagstaff Arizona Legacy
Human InterestStep into the timeless grandeur of Riordan Mansion, where the spirit of Flagstaff’s pioneering past comes alive through its remarkable architecture and the enduring legacy of the Riordan family. This historic home, built in 1904, stands as both a marvel of innovation and a testament to the visionaries who shaped the region’s economic and cultural future.

Exploring Phoenix’s Historic Landmarks And Hidden Gems
Human InterestThis article journeys through Phoenix’s vibrant history, exploring landmarks like the Pueblo Grande ruins, Heritage Square, and The Wigwam in Litchfield Park, a 1918 lodge turned luxury resort that blends Southwestern charm with modern indulgence. It also reveals hidden gems such as the Mystery Castle and Tovrea Castle, showcasing the Valley of the Sun’s mix of Native American roots, Victorian elegance, and quirky desert legacies.