by Kell Palguta, Mayor, Prescott Valley
Greetings everyone! I hope this article finds you all in good spirits, great health and with the excitement of the approach of another amazing summer in Northern Arizona.
As a child growing up in rural Maine, I looked forward every year to summer, being outdoors as much as possible and exploring what my town had to offer. Whether it was hiking the trails around my house or fishing by myself along a creek bank, I loved being outside. Fortunately nothing has really changed, and now as we fast forward to today, all of the same feelings flood back as I think of what Prescott Valley has to offer.
If you are like me and enjoy hiking, I welcome all outdoor enthusiasts to explore the Glassford Summit Trail. This is a 4.5 mile, moderately challenging out-and-back trail leading up Glassford Hill. It offers something for everyone. The Glassford Summit Trail is primarily used for hiking, mountain biking, walking, nature trips and bird watching. Once you reach the summit you will be rewarded with some of the best views that Yavapai County has to offer, and you’ll certainly be thankful you made the climb.
If hiking is not for you, feel free to head down to historic Fain Park and experience more than 100 acres of quiet recreation. Fain Park offers a large park-like setting with picnic areas and ample amounts of grass leading to the water’s edge. The park boasts a 65-foot bridge over the water leading to another area with historical artifacts, including a refurbished stamp mill. This park is very popular among fisherman and those wishing to explore the areas around historic Lynx Creek. Be sure to enjoy the outlook over the dam where water literally roars over after monsoon storms.
Opened at the end of May is the newly refurbished Arizona Downs. Arizona Downs was last open in 2010 and is now home to both live thoroughbred and quarter horse racing. This venue offers one of a kind mountain views from all four corners of the race track and also includes an amazing on-site restaurant. So if you are interested in horse racing or just taking in something different, Arizona Downs is certainly worth exploring.
The Town of Prescott Valley Parks and Recreation Department will be offering “Movies Under The Stars” every Friday night through June at the Civic Center. This event allows families to relax under the stars on a grass amphitheater and watch a family-friendly movie on a 30-foot inflatable movie screen. This event is free to the public.
Be sure to meet us in Mountain Valley Park on July 4 for Northern Arizona’s best and free fireworks show! Bring blankets and lawn chairs, kick back and enjoy live entertainment and games, and enjoy a beer and food garden. Fireworks start at dark.
Finally, if being outdoors is not how you want to spend your summer days, feel free to catch a show or concert in the evenings at the newly renamed Findlay Toyota Center. The event center is an awesome 4,500-seat venue designed to maximize your entertainment. You can also head over to Harkins Theatres and enjoy a movie on one of the 14 screens the multiplex has to offer, followed by a great meal at one of Prescott Valley’s many restaurants.
So as you can see, whether you love the outdoors or just want to take things easy inside a climate-controlled building, Prescott Valley has something for you. The Town is constantly adding events through the spring and summer. Check out what’s new on the Town of Prescott Valley’s Facebook page or visit www.pvaz.net. Follow me on Facebook at “Mayor Kell Palguta” or on Twitter @kpalguta.
Have a great summer!
Mayor, Prescott Valley
