Our nation is more divided than it has been since 1860. It’s not about party per se. Long gone is the Whig Party, abandoned by none other than Abraham Lincoln in favor of the emerging Republican Party (yes, Abe was a Republican) which today’s Liberals may struggle to accept that in those days it was the Republican Party that was anti-slavery.

Thank you to the League of Women Voters for sponsoring Wednesday night’s candidate forum. The candidates were civil and respectful and mostly truthful with a few exceptions.

So, Mingus is suing to stop an election, the results of which they think may not be to their liking.

My neighbor supports two candidates for city council so she put up their signs to show her support. Within days the signs were stolen -- and it wasn’t the wind as each was weighed down with rocks that were also taken.

To all that are tired of allowing secret money to influence our Arizona elections, be sure to sign the Outlaw Dirty Money petition.

While viewing the Statue of Liberty with her daughter, your June 22 editorial cartoon mother wonders, “What do I tell her this means?“ That’s a good question, but I wonder if the cartoonist knows the real answer.

I would like to give kudos and my most heartfelt thanks to the exceptional members of the Cottonwood fire and police departments, who are a remarkable band of helpers.

In response to candidate Michael Mathews outrageous accusations against me (June 22 Verde Independent), he is beginning to sound like a broken record.

Your water source is threatened by the proposed Big Chino Pumped Storage Project.

Regarding your story by Bill Helm in Wednesday’s paper (June 6, 2018) “Consolidation group submits petitions to county school superintendent,” I take exception to his first sentence and felt compelled to speak out.

The organizers of the Verde Valley Wine Festival would like to issue a huge THANK YOU to all of the volunteers, vendors, attendees, media partners and sponsors who helped make this year’s Verde Valley Wine Festival a SOLD OUT event.

We moved to Arizona for health reasons, but we chose Cottonwood for the school, for the educational opportunities that we didn’t have back home.

Because of your community’s support and the generosity of local businesses, a tremendous amount of children will now know a Big Brother, Big Sister, Couple or Family Match through the Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters Big Swing Golf Tournament held Friday, May 18, at Seven Canyons.

In my research, I found that the flag of US was first displayed in 1777. That is early. The Constitution was ratified in 1789.

I would like to thank the Vineyard Christian Fellowship Church for the eight years of Road cleanup on Broadway in Clarkdale.

I just read where a person responsible for the education of our children has decided that evolution and the science of our origin should not be taught in our schools.

My grandfather served in the United States Army during World War II, and was very fortunate to make it home to his family alive. Many of his comrades in arms were not so fortunate and lost their lives fighting for this great country that we are so fortunate to call home.

I disagree with Dan Engler that city council members who supported the tax hike are in the political hot seat leading up to the August primary.

I wish to thank the volunteers who helped with the highway 260 cleanup this past Saturday, May 19.

I just noticed the Cement Plant has posted another “not so public”, notice on Cement Plant Road, which is a private road owned by them and used 95 percent by only their big trucks.

The handling of the rezoning of Sugarloaf Mt. in Cornville by the Board of Supervisors is a disgrace.

Dan Engler should get his facts straight before he editorializes: “City’s sales tax debate becomes theater of unexpected.”

This letter began on Tax Day. At that time the Verde Independent had an article about I-17. It had a picture of traffic stopped on Black Canyon hill and asked, “How did we get here?”

The proposal to raise Cottonwood’s sales tax is quite disturbing. It is already at 3 percent. How many thousands of people regularly pay this tax at Cottonwood retail establishments yet receive no goods in return?

This teacher frustration has been simmering for more than ten years and it is about much more than money.

Thank you Republicans for all you have done to our county this past year.

Editorial Cartoon: May 2, 2018

This is a letter to the students of schools affected by Red for Ed. I’d like to suggest a vocabulary word for you; Austerity. Austerity is a verb to describe government financial restraint and accountability.

During my tenure at COCSD, I have watched as education funding has slowly drained from our schools, leaving us lacking the resources we so desperately need to support our student populations.

Much debate has surrounded the recent teacher walkout that began yesterday. I would like to respond to some of the comments submitted to you recently by readers.

Interventions can be the difference between life and death for a drug addict or an alcoholic. Not every person in need of rehabilitation readily accepts the opportunity to get clean and handle the issues that drove them to addiction.

Recent actions by members of the MUHS board have left many of us confused and shocked

As a former school board member who has wrestled with the consolidation question, I understand the pressure you are under. I can hear the uncomfortable phone calls you have taken from staff members and community members who you represent.

I agree that K-12 teachers are not paid nearly as much as they should. But they also are not flipping burgers for minimum wage, and name me one other profession that affords a 2+ month “break” every year.

Another fascinating Clarkdale Home Tour and rousing bank robbery has just graced our fair town. And what a grand day it was.

I have always been a strong supporter of education. I taught in public schools for 20 years.

In these divided times, all of Cottonwood can be unified in praise of the production of CRAZY FOR YOU at MUHS. The show is performed with an infectious, youthful, exuberant joy.

James Ball, Mingus Union High School Theatre Director has done it again. James Ball has brought the community a fantastic Dance-Musical. All of his students on stage and in the orchestra were OUTSTANDING.

Wouldn’t it be a piece of Heaven if people with plenty stepped up and said, “We want to leave a legacy of generosity to the people of our state. We want to give a portion of our plenty to lift up the schools in Arizona; to supply teachers and staff with good salaries; counselors to help the struggling students and their families; and provide a rich curriculum for all students.”

There is a blizzard of color at the Clarkdale Memorial Library. If you have not yet visited the library since it was pulled from the brink of annihilation by a group of dedicated and talented local citizens, now would be a good time to stop by.

Anita Glazar’s so-called opinion letter of the consolidation committee was an attempt to circumvent the committee. Just a plain attempt to make her views and only hers relevant.

I have a suggestion for the two warring factions of the Consolidation Advisory Committee.

I do hope the City of Cottonwood & builders of 89 & Vine expansion have taken in to consideration the traffic impact.

With regard to the announced suspension of the Camp Verde Cornfest (Verde Independent, 4-10-18), how about moving the event to Cornville? Windmill Park in the historic area of Cornville would be a good venue for a corn eating contest and cornhole games. Windmill Gardens has been a great host for craft fairs in the past.

A lot has been said on both sides of the gun control/gun laws (depending on your side) issue. Minds are not frequently changed, but positions harden.

The Modified Motorcycle Association Verde Valley District would like to that Thad and Shorty of Thad Card Excavating for their very generous donation of time and equipment to help us move the Jester Memorial from its current location on 6th street over to its new location at American Legion Post 25.

In February, John Bolton, our new National Security Advisor, wrote in the Wall Street Journal that he believed we should strike North Korea first as they are an imminent threat to our security.

I would like to thank the 25 volunteers who acted as crossings guards, shuttle drivers, and helped with setting up and breaking down the rally for March For Our Lives on March 24. We live in a wonderfully supportive community.

Camp Verde Lions Club Benefit yard sale for Austin Stream and his family On March 3rd the Camp Verde Lions Club had a benefit yard sale to help Austin Stream and his family with his medical treatment expenses for cancer in his eyes.

It is about time for residents of the Verde Valley to express their concerns regarding the negative activities of Northern Arizona Healthcare

The March 4 issue of The Verde Independent/Camp Verde Bugle had the results from one of their online reader polls. The question way, “As a voter would you support the extension of the quarter-cent sales tax for jail operations. The results: Yes, 35 percent; No, 65 percent.

It has come to my attention, that several “Communications Specialist” positions with the Cottonwood Police Department have been continuously open for at least two years, if not longer. The question is why?

Long-distance haulers outdid themselves. “Dr. Phil” Dirksen, Jenny Emminger, David Perrell, John Sherman and his friend Dan, Bill Taylor, and Tom Worden supplied five trucks and two hatchbacks to move cartons to and from the library.

I attended a Cottonwood-Oak Creek School Board meeting Thursday night.  First, I would like to thank the board for voting for the K–8 model for the two other schools with proper administrative support. Now I do not have to spend the next few months getting signatures.

Can’t say the Clarkdale Car Show this year was better than last year. Last year’s was as good as it gets. But CCS 2018 certainly upheld that tradition. More snazzy cars.

On behalf of our corporate sponsor BMO Harris Bank, congratulations to the champion of the 72nd Annual Yavapai County Spelling Bee, Makayla Boyd, an 8th grader at Bradshaw Mountain Middle School.

I believe when this amendment was written, the arms of choice were muskets.

What do you mean? Don’t call teenagers children. It appeals to emotionalism.

The Florida Legislature is considering allowing selected staff to carry a firearm.

The Marjorie Stoneman Douglas High School shootings has certainly knocked over a set of active beehives, some of which have never been so much as jostled before -- but probably should have been.

In the wake of the recent school shooting in Florida, President Trump has, among other ideas, recommended arming teachers in schools.

I am very disappointed that a public SAFETY officer was so thoughtless.

This letter is a thank you to the volunteers who helped cleanup highway 260 from mile post 207 to 209.

I know this will rile the feathers of Pro Gun Advocates. The second amendment Does Not Give you the right to own or carry an AR15 or other similar weapons.

1. There must be really good, thorough background checks any time and every time a firearm changes hands. Either as a private sale or through a licensed dealer or gun show vender or even as a gift. Technology is ready for this measure, the general population is ready for this. The only obstruction is the NRA and other groups that hold the political future of cowardly public servants in their fists.

Wow, the letter from Bill Bullock really was a bold effort. Much of this information is shared and known in the community. Many are frustrated with the treatment they have received at the hands of the county planning and zoning department. But no one has been brave enough to go public with these concerns. Probably because their very lively hood is at stake.

Recently there has been robust discussion concerning the consolidation of the school districts. Now, there seems to be some sort of undertow to once again work toward annexing more land into the City of Cottonwood by taking over the Verde Villages.

I would personally like to thank Geri, Papa John’s Pizza owner, for once again making it possible for some very deserving Mingus High School students

As a grandmother, I am heartbroken that our society in general is so fractured and divisive. What kind of world will my grandchildren inherit? Then my grandson graduates to third grade and off to another school, his little brother still suffering his absence.

 Attendees reported that they felt the day was affirming and empowering.  March organizers appreciate the energy, good will, and perseverance of all who participated.  

There’s absolutely no evidence out there that Trump colluded with the Russians except ...

I want to thank all of you for your support. I can only hope that this has not fallen on deaf ears at the county and that things will soon get corrected at the County Building Dept.

I would like to start by asking: Whose side are you on?

I am writing this letter to let everyone in the Verde Valley know what has been going on at the Development Services Department (Building Dept.) in Yavapai County.

Medical marijuana should be legalized now. Jeff Sessions is right about one thing: marijuana is a gateway drug -- but it’s a gateway out of opioid addiction.

Modified Motorcycle Association Verde Valley District held our Annual Frosty and Chilly Run on Monday January 1st. Since the weather was beautiful - nothing frosty about this year - we had over 130 riders sign up for the run and participate in this tradition. Riders rode from the American Legion Post 25 to the Cottonwood Fire Station on 6th street as a group.

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday is a day set aside for measuring ourselves against the yardstick of King’s hope and dream. It is a time to reflect on our moral obligation to condemn social and economic systems that rob people of dignity and equal opportunity.

The cartoon on page 4 , courtesy of the Pittsburg Post-Gazette, was right on!

It was very disturbing to hear of Rep. Jay Lawrence’s attempts to reject the democratic process by forcing local candidates to declare their party affiliation.

In addition to my appeals of the Arizona Corporation Commission’s decision in the APS rate case, there are now two more challenges to APS.

I want to personally thank Gerri, the owner of Papa Johns, for making it possible for my students on my Mingus bus to have pizzas for Christmas.

Record-breaking average fall temperature in the Verde Valley certainly warrants a news article (December 15), but there are a few facts the article fails to mention.

The RV park going in next to 89A in Clarkdale just before the bridge over the river to Tuzigoot does a disservice to the Verde Valley area.

I was so pleased to see Mingus Union High School photography students’ work decking Clark Memorial Library for the holiday season! The sight of stacks lined with their pro-quality photo art underscores the fact CML is open for the entire community to enjoy on a daily basis.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7400 and Auxiliary recently conducted their two-day Buddy Poppy campaign, soliciting donations at the following businesses in Cottonwood:

I live next to the Park in upper Clarkdale. At 1 am I took our puppy out to go potty in our front yard.

I am writing to express my position on the proposed GOP tax increases. I adamantly oppose any legislation that provides tax breaks to the wealthy, while raising taxes for the lower and middle classes.

We live and work in the silhouettes and outlines of Yavapai County size skyscrapers known as multi-story buildings, we travel through streets lined with homes and local businesses and buildings under construction.

Why do Network, Cable Television, Programmers find it necessary to reenact the full detail of horror stories such as the Charles Mansion case.

I am a dog owner and I am so upset at irresponsible pet owners who do not pick up after their pets. You give all of us a bad reputation.

I wish to thank the 18 volunteers who came out to help with the Highway 260 cleanup of the Verde Village section.

I just got back from the Minneapolis St. Paul area. Where I spent 48 Years. They have over 250 tennis courts.

As the season of love and good cheer approaches, I find it is more and more difficult to tell the difference between “Christmas Spirit” and normal year-round “Cottonwood Spirit.”

Senator Jeff Flake is correctly named. He is a “flake.”

The new tax bill just approved by the Senate and if approved by Congress, will drastically cut Medicare and Medicaid funding over the next 10 years.

After a recent stay at Verde Valley Medical Center, I want to thank and applaud the nurses and all personnel in the Telemetry unit, for my wonderful care.

As a visitor to you town I find the people enthralled with loud noisy vehicles very annoying. Why do you allow these people to disturb the peace?

There are so many good people out there who seem to tolerate the lack of a moral compass in our country.

On November 5, 2017, 26 people were killed in a Texas church by a man with a gun.

The citizens of Clarkdale are celebrating the reopening of Clark Memorial Library which wouldn’t have happened without the support of the Verde Independent.

Seems I recently went too far and offended some good folks, including many vets. I apologize for the disrespectful and harsh tone of my words, they were part of the problem, not part of the solution.

As for taxes, I just paid my property taxes. $175 for school equalization, $795 for Cottonwood Oak Creek SD #6, $723 for Mingus Union High School #4, and $715 for Yavapai Community College (which will go to Prescott).

The argument that “they” take our jobs is an age old xenophobia rearing its head. It is a scapegoat. No one threatened my job. Does anyone threaten yours?

They’ve done it again! Mingus Union High School thespians, Director James Ball, sets director Jeff Neugebauer, and many helpers have produced a stunning who-done-it, “The Mousetrap.”

My point is that property owners will never see a charter school on their tax bill and yet they thrive with less tax burden to the public. So I vote no, no.

Thank you for publishing (Sunday, 15 Oct) the letter by Hunter Bachrach, and thanks to Mr. Bachrach for sending his letter to Sen. Flake to this newspaper.

Modified Motorcycle Association Verde Valley District (MMA VVD) held our 3rd Annual Biker Dawg’s Motorcycle Run Saturday October 7th.

If anyone’s wondering how Friends of Clark Memorial Library managed to amass over 6,500 books for a three-day Grand Reopening Book Sale this week … I’m with them.

After 7½ months of working to keep Clark Memorial Library open, I’m now having nightmares over not enough people knowing the Grand Re-Opening Celebration is October 19.

I am happy to see that Beaver Creek School received a C this year in the State Board of Education’s preliminary grades. I know it is not a fantastic grade, but our students and staff worked really hard to achieve the best grade they could.

Good morning Senator Flake.

Dear Bikers...

I would like to commend Mr. Engler on his insightful, and obviously thought out, op-ed on the use of tasers on civilians for demonstrations.

In support of our children and their dedicated educators here in our valley, we are voting “Yes” ”Yes” for the two upcoming overrides for Cottonwood Oak Creek School District and Mingus Union High School District.

As it has been previously pointed out in various newspaper articles and letters regarding school funding, the date for the budget override elections is fast approaching.

Democrats of the Red Rocks (DORR) opposes H.R. 1697, known as the Israel Anti-Boycott Act. This bill violates free speech rights protected under the 1St Amendment. We take no position, either pro or anti a boycott.

This mature ”old soldier” always has, and always will, stand for the American Flag and our National Anthem, symbols of our imperfect country.  

Longtime readers may recall I made a public records request of the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) regarding documents and emails concerning the “smart” meter health study that the ACC asked the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) to perform.

In regards to Carol Anne Teague’s letter to the editor in the Verde Independent on September 29th, I want to confirm that the City of Cottonwood and the school districts are separate governmental agencies with their own funding sources, budgets and governing boards.

In mid-October ballots will arrive in our mailboxes. We will be asked to cast a mail-in vote regarding the Mingus Union/Cottonwood Oak Creek School District budget override.

Following President Trump’s criticism of the football players disrespecting our flag and country, the number of players protesting increased. Most of them weren’t involved in showing “unity” prior to this.

I’ve been hearing a lot of hype about the NFL and them not saluting the flag and I understand the concerns that is disrespectful to our troops and to our people that defended our nation.

I don’t like paying bills as much as the next person, but I think it is funny how much I have heard about “expensive” water bills of Cottonwood.

Regarding some of the recent letters to the editor about roundabouts, I wanted to take some time to clarify some misconceptions.

The Clarkdale Downtown Business Alliance would like to thank all that participated in our Poker Stroll last weekend.

Wonderful news! The Clarkdale Town Council has approved the Library Intergovernmental Agreement needed to reopen Clark Memorial Library.

This comes as a follow-up to Mr. Coley’s “letter to the editor” dated Sept 6th, 2017.

A great big kudos to Police Chief Gesell, Doug Bartosh, Rudy Rodriquez, and the City Council for digging deep and restoring the two vacated police positions. And, very exciting that two, experienced, qualified officers have applied for those positions.

Your September 6 article on the alarming trend in the Yavapai County suicide rates mirrors the dilemma we face at the Mental Health Coalition Verde Valley about what a community can do to help prevent suicide.

I hope all the wonderful people who have been collecting books for Friends of the Clark Memorial Library’s Grand Reopening Book Sale, telling their friends, and wishing us well know how much the support we’re receiving from library lovers throughout the Verde Valley means to us.

Since its earliest days the labor movement has sought to improve the quality of work life, create workplace democracy and participate in employer/employee decision-making. The many benefits and protections workers enjoy today never existed until unions won them for working people.

May I lay me down to sleep; And pray the Lord that I may keep From disappointing those who wish me Out of sight and far away.

After Trump’s press conference the white supremacist groups were absolutely giddy and have nothing but praises for him.

I wanted to ask to what benefit do your constituents derive from these give aways and what betterment do we receive from your active engagement in the national corporate organization, called “ALEC”, the American Legislative Exchange Council.

I was born in Phoenix 76 years ago. Although there are people with agendas that don’t know, or don’t want to know, I went to school with African American kids when they were still relegated to the back of the bus in the south.

The VVPOA had 15 volunteers to help with the cleanup of its 2 mile section of Highway 260 on Saturday August 19.

I think it’s time to Make America Respectable Again.

Rep. Paul Gosar has flunked his test for moral leadership. His only statement about the Charlotteville demonstrations is, “These hateful actions are absolutely inexcusable”.

Individually and as faith leadership colleagues, joined together as the Sedona Area Interfaith Coalition, we grieve the recent acts of violence, especially in Charlottesville, Virginia, and in other parts of the world as well.

After waking from my long nap that Jim Barber observed I took, I awoke to find, in my amazement, that Congress did not allow Barack Obama to run for a third term! Had he done so, we would not be in this twittertornado so bad that I look forward to the commercials on TV now.

The Waste Water Treatment Plant at Riverfront Park has reached another setback. The excess waste water that is produced by the plant has no place to go.

While I’m no fan of Ann Coulter I agree with one point she made in her essay Contract with Republicans, published in the Verde Independent on Friday, August 4, 2017, namely that the United States should stop wasting money and precious lives on pointless wars.

Donald Trump is showing Americans just how good a President Barack Obama was.

Friends of Clark Memorial Library greatly appreciate the upwelling of support we’ve received over the last month.

I had doubts when Friends of Clark Memorial Library set up a book collection booth at July 29’s Concert in the Park.

In the Verde Independent Newspaper July 28, 2017 is a what I classify as a Letter of “Conflicting Opinions” within itself; when recently past years events are taken into account.

The Republicans in Congress, for seven years, proposed/passed legislation to repeal and replace the ACA (Obamacare).

Wow!! I fired a pop-gun and got back a battleship salvo.

First of all, congratulations to Dale Williams on her retirement from Mingus Union High School. Dale started out as a bus driver for her father, John Tavasci, working 10 years there, then started working at Mingus in the Counseling Department, completing 30 years of service as an MUHS employee.

I’m replying to Bob Burke’s letter of July 28, 2017. My husband and I watched all channels on TV for many years and are both avid readers. After happening upon FOX, we soon realized that it is the only channel which has liberals on as much as conservatives. Therefore, intelligent people can make their own decisions about current events.

The American people owe a debt of gratitude to Senators Collins, Murkowski and Arizona’s own John McCain for their “no” vote on the Republican repeal and replace health care bill.

Donald Trump’s clumsy political maneuvers aside, John McCain, of all Senators, should know the president is right on the transgender issue.

It’s time to pull the plug on the testosterone governing Washington.

Just like the weeds that follow a summer monsoon storm, Jim Barber’s hypocrisy is in full bloom. After much thought, reflection, and a good dose of Fox News, Barber wrote that the current political toxicity is the fault of – you won’t believe it - Democrats.

In a time of drought, why allow even more draining of our precious aquifer! Where is the Environmental Study? Whose wells will run dry? And yes, it is happening now! Many people are facing dry wells already.

Thank you for publishing the salaries of the public “Servants” in Yavapai County. My first initial reaction was anger, but then it turned to great sadness.

Decades ago, Bob Dylan wrote a challenge -- and warning -- to today’s members of the House and Senate. Seems timely that we revisit his prescient words:

Did you know that it was only in the 2000 presidential election that the color Red for Republicans and the color Blue for Democrats actually “stuck” as identifying the two parties?

With the recently announced move to the Cottonwood Chamber of Commerce to 849 Cove Road, now is time to improve the intersection of SR 89A & SR260 by acquisition of the old building site by either purchase or by eminent domain in order to build an over-and-under bridge to ensure a continuous flow of traffic for the foreseeable future.

The Verde Valley Fire District responded to the Jones Ford Dealership for an EMS emergency. Fire Station 31 (E. Godard Rd. and 260) Engine 311 and Ambulance 311 are first due to this location as it falls within our Fire District.

I have been informed that groups of seniors that gather at the Senior Center on a regular basis to play cards will have to pay $1 for the privilege.

On behalf of the newly formed Friends of Clark Memorial Library, I’d like to thank all the citizens of the Verde Valley who came by our booth at Clarkdale’s 4th of July Celebration.

I hope the editorialist who wrote “Community needs to make most of second chance for Clarkdale Library” was at the Clarkdale Town Park on July 4. He or she would have seen the community “stepping up to the plate” at the Friends of Clark Memorial Library’s kick-off booth.

The City of Cottonwood Parks and Recreation Department would like to express our appreciation and gratitude to everyone who assisted and participated during this year’s production of Cinderella in June.

My husband and I were shopping at Walmart. When we came out we found this sticker on the windshield:

Most of the News Media coverage about the Russian involvement in our election process is centered around the “Trump Campaign and Administration”; in which there has to date, in the approximately eight months of multiple agency investigation; with absolute zero incidence of ‘Collusion or Obstruction’ concerning any of the ‘Trump Family, Campaign Staffers, Administrative Personnel or Aligned Pundits’.

I was pleased to see Diane Joens’ lovely testimonial to Jennifer Chilton, who did an outstanding job as Principal at Mingus Union High School.

The article heading (AROUND ARIZONA, AZRep, 7/4/17) said “10-month-old girl rescued from car.” I’m very supportive of police but Tucson PD failed on this one.

The current “Wildcat Dumping” problem is an example the law of unintended consequences.

The issue of the Cottonwood city wastewater treatment, water and sewage system story of June 14th is one of complete incompetence on the part of the city council.

While I agree Clarkdale needs to make the most of its second chance for Clark Memorial Library (editorial June 24), the basic problem seems to be communication, not the community’s willingness to support a library that from 1927 until the late 1980s was staffed by community volunteers. Clarkdale has always supported its library.

Every year the Cottonwood Public Library hosts Law Day, an event sponsored by Community Legal Services that brings in lawyers who give patrons free legal advice.

Judge us on our merits, not those of others who came before us.

This is in response to Mr. Engler’s editorial regarding donations made by the City of Cottonwood. In the list of donations he included a $200 donation to the American Legion Riders for a picnic and barbecue.

I was extremely disheartened to read your editorial of June 10 regarding the recent contribution by the City of Cottonwood to the American Legion Riders.

This is not the first time that the Verde Valey Fire Department has come to my rescue.

I want to take this opportunity to thank the myriad of volunteers who have served the Verde Valley Caregivers Coalition so faithfully for the last 25 years.

Some of us can remember when GOP (Grand Old Party) stood for principles that actually made our nation great, not for the Trump and company 6-year-old-kid mindset, a group that preaches return to greatness as a cover for a Third-World style dictatorship.

Clark Memorial Library lovers wasted no time planning to make lemonade.

In a time when it often seems customer service is a distant memory, I believe it is important to recognize local outstanding individuals and businesses.

The impact on my senses, memory and prior contact with both authors regarding two comprehensive articles in the May 17 Verde Independent was so striking as to result in my removing each to study and digest as one can (at 92 years) with great regard and respect for the writers.

I would suggest that Mr. Bob Richards bone up on the subject before commenting on it.

Clark Memorial Library patrons greatly appreciated Janie Cook’s expression of solidarity in last Friday’s (May 26, 2017) opinion section.

The Army monument unveiling at the Cottonwood Memorial Park on Saturday, May 27, was an awesome event. We look forward to the future unveilings.

Citizens of Clarkdale, be informed that your city mayor and town council, by a unanimous vote on Tuesday evening, May 23rd, did not trust the friends of the Clarkdale Memorial Library and members of the Clarkdale community to come up with $25,000 to keep the library open for this coming fiscal year 2017-2018.

While I don’t live in Clarkdale, I have sympathy for the community. The library controversy is only another domino in the changing culture in American. Look what is happening to malls, for instance. Even my stepson says he doesn’t read books anymore. Not the printed and bound kind. He has a Kindle.

I live in a senior park here in Cottonwood. The Quality Inn Motel is right behind my row of homes. On May 20, the Hells Angels parked a motor home right behind me in the Motel parking lot music blaring.

The VVPOA would like to thank each of the highway 260 volunteers for helping cleanup our section of the highway on May 20.

My thanks to the VI for stressing Clark Memorial Library’s need for an independent library support group in the May 20 editorial on Clarkdale Town Council’s pending decision to renew the Yavapai County Library Network contract.

Do you share the vision of the Clark Memorial Library as a center of community involvement? Come to the budget meeting at the Clark Memorial Clubhouse at 3 pm on Tuesday, May 23, and let Clarkdale’s mayor and Town Council know you want Clarkdale’s historic public library -- the sixth oldest public library in all of Arizona—kept open.

I prepared a lengthy response to your recent editorial commentary on the proposed City of Cottonwood budget, and in particular your remarks concerning citizen’s inability to connect the dots in the budget to smear the Thunder Valley Rally, and the so-called “disparaging” remarks about the City of Cottonwood, all based on my previous letter to you.

As long time citizen of Cottonwood, I have seen a lot of changes to this area and the verde valley in general. But it wasn’t until recently, or within the last six months, that I have noticed a real negative impact on our community.

It was Yavapai Big Brothers Big Sisters’ 34th year of Bowl for Kids’ Sake, and the season cannot come to a close until we thank all those who have made 2017 such a successful year!

Fantastic! Magnificent! More superlatives than there is space for here. I am referring to James Ball’s latest phenomenal production at Mingus High School - “Fiddler on the Roof.”

Per your article of April 21, 2017, it appears that Yavapai Community College President Penelope Wills and Board President Ray Sigafoos have undergone a sudden epiphany when it comes to concern for the underserved student populations in the County.

“Unofficial shooting range.” Has the Forest Service checked the lead and arsenic levels in the rest of the area, or the Verde Valley for that matter?

Our oldest son joined ATORT two years ago as a sophomore, and this Sunday, when “Fiddler On the Roof” concludes, he will step from the stage for the seventh and final time as a graduating senior.

Mingus: Fiddler on the Roof, Fabulous .. Fabulous .. FABULOUS. There was a standing ovation at the opening of Fiddler on the Roof, Saturday night because these high school students were amazing.

With Governor Doug Ducey having signed legislation (HB2404) adopted by ‘our’ Republican-controlled legislature to make it nearly impossible to bring initiatives to the ballot, I would encourage voters to join the efforts to repeal HB2404.

I always appreciate what Jim Barber says in the Verde Independent about politics. He is right on about president Trump. My husband and I voted for Trump and we are pleased with what he has done for our country so far.

I was surprised how strongly worded the editorial about the state approving limited vouchers. You would have thought a sacred cow had been shot.

I’d like to take a moment to respond to Jim Barber’s letter of April 19.

I am writing in favor of the proposed school district consolidation/unification. Some are saying this proposal boils down to the issue of money; while this is not the only issue to consider it should weigh heavily on the minds of school board members and voters.

The Verde Village News Facebook page is NOT an official source for any news regarding the Verde Village. 

Hands Healing Hunger, what a descriptive name for an Outreach Ministry at Christ’s Lutheran Church in Sedona. When you see the work that was put into the dinner and live and silent auctions and the generosity of the parishioners and attendees you can’t help but to be impressed.

If I had to describe this White House administration in one word I would say it’s one of ineptitude. It’s a cross between “Abbott & Costello” & “One Who Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest”.

In Sunday’s editorial, you claimed that the introduction of the voucher system began the decline of the traditional public school system. I disagree. The decline of the public school system began long before that. It began in the homes of our country.

I wanted to provide some insight into why the shortfall in distribution to Mingus Union, Camp Verde and Sedona Red-Rock High Schools is such a travesty.

Regarding the Editorial in the Verde Independent, 4-9-17 “Voucher system now law in Arizona at expense of traditional public school system,” we would refer readers to a Wikipedia excerpt since we feel that there are many other parents who would identify with the concerns of the Amish in this regard.

I felt bad when I read that Superintendent Tim Carter felt “badly” about a recent oversight he made in Dr. Jane Whitmire’s biography. Logically the structure of the sentence, “Now I feel badly.” should work. “Badly” is an adverb modifying the verb “feel”, right? Yes, but no.

The only thing worse than making a mistake, is to make the same mistake twice!

Brian Moran ... is as blissfully ignorant of the evaluation process for contract employees as he is of the appointment process to serve any of the City of Cottonwood Boards and Commissions as well as the appointment process for a City Council position.

Considering the great efforts women gave to support (past and current) wars and dedication to our military, The Verde Valley Military Service Park (VVMSP) will be adding space for a Bronze Relief Sculpture Monument along with allowing inscriptions of names of women living in Arizona who were Rosie the Riveters.

I have been a volunteer and member of the Library Advisory Board from 2012 until its dismembering in 2015. This board did more than just advise the staff. We also worked the Ice Cream Social, which earned about $500 every year. We worked the Book Sale when we were able to, and that earned at least $1000 each year. In fact the last year it was held it earned over $2,000.

I am in complete agreement with Mayor Elinski on improving the evaluation process for key city employees.

The Loven Family Run, presented by the Northern Arizona Healthcare Foundation, welcomed nearly 300 participants who ran to raise support for Valley View Care and EntireCare Rehab & Sports Medicine, services of Northern Arizona Healthcare.

Clarkdale parents do you want to lose local control? Consolidation, Unification? Is bigger better? Is combined budgets better than local control?

The recent increase in traffic makes a quicker trip to West Sedona via Cornville.

I read your editorial on the Cuban Queen Bordello on March 11, 2017. When I was a boy in Jerome, 1953-1955, I always wondered what was inside all those boarded-up buildings.

Recently, the City of Cottonwood elected to continue the Thunder Valley Rally. In making the decision the Council decided to move some of the events to Riverfront Park and keep others in Old Town.

The issue of school district unification is once again being discussed here in the Verde Valley. It is my belief that it is a long overdue problem needing to be resolved and now is the right time to make it happen.

I just read Dan Engler’s article on the remediation plan for Clarkdale.

Could American citizens start a movement with a petition to eliminate lifelong paid-for health care for Senators and Congressional Representatives as well as the Executive and Judicial Branches of our government?

On behalf of the 71 individuals sheltered this past winter during our coldest nights, we thank the community for its generous support and donations: Cottonwood City Council, Verde Independent, KYBC/KVRD, Angie’s shelter, churches, businesses, service organizations and caring citizens.

The Mayor’s holding up a cell phone in a council meeting, suggesting that it replaces a library since one can find anything one needs on it, seems to indicate that he must have never done serious research.

Thanks to all who turned out to march with the PFLAG Sedona/Verde Valley and Sedona Pride contingent in the Sedona St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 11th.

Libraries, not just in our little town, are faced with finding ways to remain relevant, to align with current needs and expectations, to innovate services and programs, to remain integral to the community.

In 2016, Clarkdale’s Library Advisory Board and Parks & Recreation Departments were combined into the Clarkdale Community Services Commission. In May, the new commission was tasked by the Community Services Supervisor with prioritizing the town’s programs and events.

At the February 28 work session on closing the Clark Memorial Library, Councilman Richard Dehnert asked, if the library goes, “What’s next? What’s left?” Extremely apt questions.

People insured under Obamacare fall into 2 categories – those covered by Medicaid and those in the insurance “pools”. Medicaid, like Social Security, is financially unsustainable in its present form.

It’s Easter time again. Store shelves are filled with stuffed bunnies and pet store windows are filled with adorable baby rabbits. Your kids are begging you to buy one. It’s so hard to resist. After all, you think, wouldn’t this be the perfect, low maintenance pet for a young child?

Donald Trump is his own worst enemy, but he has his die hard fans who support him no matter how erratic he behaves. After all, at one of his campaign speeches he said he could shoot someone and his fans would still support him. He’s right.

President Trump said “We want harmony and stability, not war and conflict.” Yet, he proposes that we add $54 billion in new Pentagon spending and make devastating cuts to the State Department and USAID, which of course works work against harmony and stability.

For too long now I have remained aloof of the political landscape in America. I believed that whatever happened at a national level really did not affect me locally.

I would like to voice my thanks and appreciation to several health care providers in Cottonwood.

Did you think you have a 1st Amendment Right to free speech and peaceful assembly? Well, think again. In the midst of all the brew ha ha at the national level, the Arizona State Senate quietly passed SB 1142 last week.

“Adopt For Life” Labrador Retriever (mostly) Ruger joined our family about a year ago. He will be with us until either he, or we, die of natural causes or is helped by our veterinarian to cross Rainbow Bridge.

The Cornville Historical Society would like to thank the community for their recent support of our annual fund raiser which was held at “Iris Spring Ranch” formerly “Rancho Bonito” on December 11, 2016. It was a beautiful sunny day and enjoyed by everyone present.

Thank you, to all who have sent cards and condolences in the passing of my mom, Edna Rudolph.

Our neighborhood recently needed the services provided by Cottonwood First Responders and we have to say we were very impressed by our City’s Police, Fire and Medical Teams. We were able to witness very brave and honorable men and women doing an incredible job during a very tragic incident.

The front page of the February 11 Arizona Republic reported two crimes and their punishments.

Regarding “ASU professor predicts ‘Obamacare’ repeal could send state into health care recession” published 2/12/17.

We applaud the Verde Independent for getting the word out that Sex Trafficking occurs in Yavapai County (Wednesday, Feb 1, 2017). Too many people in our community were unaware that the problem happens here too.

I was one of four Sedona voters who visited the Prescott offices of Republican Rep. Paul Gosar and Senator John McCain February 2.

I believe the effort has a better chance for success if the focus is on improving educational achievement and outcomes through curriculum coordination rather than on conceivable fiscal savings, which assuredly will happen when services are consolidated as a result of unification.

It appears that the Yavapai Community College is on its way to deliver a “Valentine’s day gift” to students wrapped up as a 5-percent tuition increase. This increase will likely occur at the District Governing Board meeting Tuesday, February 14 in Prescott. The “gift” will be swathed in hyper-technical rhetoric considered the “black art” of accounting and unhelpful comparisons between tuition charged at the community college and that charged at four-year universities and other community colleges.

I hope this letter is read by Rep. Noel Campbell and all the people who voted for him.

Councilmember Deb Althouse did not do so. She interrupted Mayor Elinski numerous times and in my opinion acted in a manner not becoming to a city council member.

Old Town is no longer a proper venue for Thunder Valley Rally. To reach this startling conclusion, I read the applicable minutes of the Parks and Rec Commission meeting pertaining to the Thunder Valley Rally and applied my own rational thoughts about the rally.

The recent My Turn by Andy Groseta is a proposition that deserves consideration by the various schools boards and all their constituents.

As I’ve been watching the news, what has upset me more than anything are the violent protests by the “Radical Left” because they are harming people and buildings.

Why are California Democrats so desperately defending their sanctuary cities to the point where they have fast-tracked legislation that declares the entire state a sanctuary for illegal immigrants and guarantees tax-funded attorneys for those facing deportation?

Having worked in Arizona State Government for 23 years, I read with interest the article in the Verde Independent, Sunday January 29, 2017 regarding the Cottonwood City Council’s Strategic Planning meeting.

Somewhere between the utopian idea that health care can, and should be, free and the idea that it should be “every man for himself,” there is a middle-ground that is humane but not economically ruinous.

This “wimpy weenie crybaby” has something to say to all those Trumpsters out there who so delight in insulting and belittling dissenters like me.

Enough already! Enough with the surrogates explaining about what Trump “really meant.” Is he not a grown man capable of saying exactly what he means? Enough with my fellow Christians making excuses for their precious “baby Christian.”

According to Olga Perez Stable Cox, psychology professor at Orange Coast College in Costa Mesa, CA, Donald Trump’s election was an “act of terrorism”. This quote was part of her class lecture after Trump’s election and was video taped by a student, put on YouTube and then reported by Fox News.

The volunteers of St. Frances Cabrini Conference, Society of St. Vincent de Paul in Camp Verde stood at Bashas’ doors on Nov. 22nd.

Residents of the valley have been subsidizing the economic development of Prescott to the detriment of its own growth for decades. The Verde Valley has been harmed by this unfair distribution of tax dollars, and it will continue being harmed for decades more unless residents demand a permanent change in the system.

I certainly appreciated hearing Mr. Bullock’s concerns. I completely understand his apprehension and that he openly admits that he has no experience with cannabis.

The “free” jazz concert at the Camp Verde Phillip England Center, put on by Yavapai College and featuring the Australian jazz trio, Matt Baker & the Trio, was spectacular. It was an entertaining and delightful concert that came to Camp Verde last Saturday night at 7pm. And it was a first for Yavapai College, bringing a concert to our town. It looked like about 75+ attended the program.

In several cases, the courts have ruled that random drug tests of employees are legal. They also have ruled that the requirement for pre-employment drug testing is allowed under the law.

After reading the published interviews with Cottonwood’s mayoral candidates and poring over their websites it is clear that Tim Elinski is the best choice for our next mayor. He shows a dedication to a citizen driven decision making process, which will be a refreshing change from business as usual. He also is committed to protecting our community’s natural resources.