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As far back as establishment dates of 1939, and into the future as far as planned openings, ie: the anticipated Chocolate Blond Salon, Old Town Cottonwood is a prime example of Small Town Revival.   During a time of struggling national economy, Old Town is an anomaly.  At the core of its success are  businesses servicing the community.  Architecture, engineering, accounting, salons, legal services, and property management, name a few.

 

Entering 2012, revive from holiday stress by taking advantage of this awesome array.  Whether you are ready to give or receive, this abundance can help you replenish and restore your business, your self, and your community.

 

Casey Rooney, Executive Director of the CEDC (Cottonwood Economic Development Council), and instrumental partner in opening the BAC (Business Assistance Center) in Old Town, stated,  “It's the Perfect Storm.  The Creative Class and the Wine Industry collided.  In a time when the economy was crashing, Old Town took off.”  Mr. Rooney believes Old Town has only seen a quarter of its growth and has, “75% left to grow.”  I like his projections.  The BAC is available as a meeting space, plus offers management and other skills training to local small businesses.

 

Since Way Back When

The Calverts opened Verde Floral in 1939.  Today, Darlene Calvert employs four locals plus Store Manager Theresa Dugin.  About working in a business that has been here for so long, Ms. Dugin said, “It's great how Old Town is booming.” 

 

The Garrisons have owned their property on Main St for generations, and continue to thrive with Cashmere Property Management operating out of it.  Not a residential real estate company as oft confused, it's a 13-property industrial and commercial management firm.  The Garrison's latest operation, an RV and Mini-Storage complex, is their only site with room to grow.  Said Mr. Garrison, “All of our other properties, including those in Old Town, are occupied.”  Now that's success.

 

Manuel Sanchez, aka Manny, of “Gotta Have It” and “Hair by Manuel,” said this is the best time he has seen here.  Mr. Sanchez has owned a business in Old Town for over 35 years, and some of his costumers have been with him for as long.  A visit to Manny's shop shows you why.  “It is eye-candy,” he explains.  Known for his creative embroidered jackets, Mr. Sanchez also hand-painted the shop from top to bottom, wall to wall.  About growth in this historic area, he said, “It's a blessing to everyone.”

 

With store fronts side by side, All Valley Door & Lock and Time For You Clock Repair have been operating since 26 years ago and 22 years ago, respectively.  “I've been here in Old Town for 18 years,” said Charlie Anderson of Time For You.  Although annually closed for summer, Mr. Anderson finds ways to stay involved when he is here.  “I am working on a wine orientated clock,” he remarked. 

 

All Valley Lock & Door owner Robert Rose was proud to announce his establishment had just won the 2011 “Best of America, Best of the Best Award” in his trade.  This category included competitors nationally.  “Most of my work is outside of Old Town, but it really is nice to see a resurgence of business here.”

 

Coombs Countertops was once Coombs & Sons.  Owners Jacque and Virgil were out of town when I was taking interviews, but sit-in Shop Manager Barbara Jones remembered clearly working with Virgil Sr years ago.  Ms. Jones said, “I've worked all over this Valley with contractors for years.  We always used Coombs.”

 

An Old Town boy who has come home to roost, Tom Pender has opened multiple businesses with wife Lisa Pender over the last decade and a half.  “It's coming home.  I grew up on N 5th and wanted to support Old Town, see it grow.”  Pender Engineering is a General Civil Engineering firm, handling all types of projects from floodways to municipal and commercial.  The Penders other service ventures have included J and N Painting, Cornerstone Surveying & Engineering, and Little Lisa's.

 

As Old Town grows, so does the sophistication of services offered.  Char Zack, of Charlene Zack Accounting, is now an Enrolled Agent (EA).  Ms. Zack has been in Old Town for over 15 years and has served as an accountant in the Verde Valley, primarily Jerome, since 1982.  “With an upcoming shift in regulatory accounting qualifications,” Ms. Zack explained of her EA status, “new enrollment processes will be needed, in order to legally file.  I am now one of those qualified.”

 

Old Concepts, New Stores

Premiere Furniture Consignment brings two services to Old Town.  Kim Wright, co-owner with husband Arnie, doubles as a travel agent. Wrote Mrs. Wright, “As part of CWT Vacations and being an accredited Virtuoso Agent, we are able to give upgrades and other special benefits on cruises, tours and hotels.”  And in addition to their shop, Mrs. Wright said, “Keep in mind that we do Estate Sales, too.”

 

If your bicycle needs a tune up, or you are ready for a new bike to wear off those winter pounds, visit Zoomer's Bike & Gear opened by Todd Lang, MD on Thanksgiving Day 2008.  Since I use a wheelchair, I'm happy they are also willing to dabble in the wheelchair repair arts.  Being able to move freely is a blessing.  As Store Manager Dean Williamson said, “You can't buy happiness, but you can buy a bicycle, and that's pretty darn close.”

 

Hair by Manuel has been here for decades watching new salons join in.  The current list includes Salon Envy behind Hog Wild BBQ, Tara Hair behind Studio B, and Ruby Reds at N 10th St.  Shop owners say they are staying busy.  “It's been really steady,” commented Joyce Gonzalez, co-owner of Salon Envy with husband Rogelio.  They live just down the street, “For the lovely green, leaves, and trees.  It's so peaceful.”

 

According to Owner/Broker Naomi McKeever, Adobe Real Estate moved here in 2008 because, “Old Town has a wonderful hometown feeling and we love it.”  Adobe Real Estate offers services for Residential, and also has a specialist in Commercial, Mike Warren.  Between nine office agents they service the entire Verde Valley.

 

Nationally-recognized Ledbetter Law Firm also put up their sign post here in 2009.  Pun intended, Ledbetter worked with the Old Town Association of Cottonwood to restore the old Drive Through Liquor neon sign to read “Welcome to Old Town.”  This sign has become a symbol for Old Town, and appears in promotions of many agencies.  Ledbetter Law has a broad scope of clients for which they provide legal services, from State to local levels.

 

Paul Cate of Cate Architecture established here in 2004, “because it was just a lovely place to be.”  On the subject of Green Building, stated Mr. Cate, “I was a Green Builder before it became weird, which was before it became cool.”  Mr. Cate works from his home office on Cactus, just west of Main St.  Any 1st hour meeting or service is free. Visit him at catedesign.net.

 

Small Town Boundaries Affecting Whole State Communities

Stronghold to many of these newer agencies surviving, has also been the consistency of local humanitarian resources such as the Food Bank, the Mission, Catholic Charities, and the Boys & Girls Club.  Centrally located in Old Town behind the Civic Center and its park, the Boys & Girls Club is safety zone to 75 children a day and employs half a dozen locals.  After-school services include helping kids with homework, giving them healthy snacks, and creating safe and fun events, such as the annual Pinewood Derby.  Phillip Van Gorp, Branch Director, stated, “The best part is just seeing the kids being happy.”

 

Old Town Mission hands out food and clothes by the pounds.  Geri Branaman, Compassion Services Manager, read the Mission's 2011 statistics to me, “We served 15,936 lunches, helped 32,100 people with food and/or clothing, and food shared 17,856 pounds with other agencies.”  The Mission has three employees, and is working on hiring a fourth.  These employees help direct 75-80 volunteers a week, who come help manage this sum of generosity.

 

The Food Bank, just across from Camelot RV Park, has a Backpack Lunch program.  On Fridays, volunteers arrive to pack sacks for school kids to take home.  The packs supply these children, and their families, with all the weekend food they need.  These small backpacks go from being tokens of support, to entire families' sustainability. 

 

Catholic Charities Office Director Carol Quasula also has quite a job on her hands.  The Cottonwood Branch is one of a large network throughout the State, which have been providing programs for more than 75 years, annually transforming over 80,000 lives in Arizona.  Services provided out of the Cottonwood include helping homeless, supporting youth development and education, reducing poverty, helping with foster care, and providing multiple arenas of counseling, including parenting, pregnancy and adoption.

 

If you are looking for volunteer opportunities and ways to help our community, from Old Town to our State borders, you can walk right down the street and find one of these impressive resources to offer your aid.  When you have given every last bit that you can, and are ready to be pampered, continue to keep it in Old Town with some of our health and healing facilities.

 

Out Of A Little Town Came A Lot Of Love 

Judy Rupel returned to plant a seed and grow her business here.  Said Ms. Rupel of Soothing Touch Massage, “Appreciation is truly one of the most powerful emotions one can express.  I am so grateful to be a part of Old Town as a neighbor and business owner.” In gratitude, Soothing Touch Massage is offering a Full-Body Massage and Body Scrub for $60 to all Old Town residents.

 

Jeanette Campbell of Verde Valley Acupuncture recommends a Seasonal Check-Up to veer clear of colds and flu.  Optimistic of her business's future success, and of all small businesses in Old Town, she said, “2012 is the Year of the Dragon.  I see the qualities of the Dragon as the same of a small business owner.  They like to make their own rules, and when left on their own, they are successful, driven, and fulfill their dreams.” 

 

The accordion block building of the Healing Arts Center was once Martin J Lawrence Hospital of  Cottonwood.  Built in the late 30s, it was moved in the 60s to its current location on Willard, and became Verde Valley Medical Center.  According to Olga Morris, Clinical Coordinator of Services, the   building is now owned by Dr. Marvin Colvin, DO, and is an Integrative Healing Center.  Ms. Morris detailed they offer, “services ranging from Family Practice and Osteopathic Manipulation to yoga, massage, counseling, permanent makeup, hair analysis, nutrition and parenting classes.”  This January 21, join Danielle Vorves, Sara Woolsey and other instructors for the 3rd annual, and free, Yoga Day USA.

 

Also offering a range of therapeutic and fun activities, is Studio B.  Owner William Eaton describes Studio B at Old Town Center for the Arts as having, “unique decor and ambience, offering residents and visitors ongoing classes in yoga, belly dance, movement arts, drumming and many other community opportunities." Visit oldtowncenter.org.

 

What Defines Old Town?

In this article, I define Old Town's perimeters as the cemetery to the east, to the recently burned down gas station and The Sewing Box to the west.  By National Historic Commercial District designation it is bridge to bridge, and some would have it start by Fry's.  I chose the cemetery to the east since most old towns put their cemetery at the edge of Town, as a courtesy to the town-dwellers.  From that, I am presuming that this was the original Cottonwood.

 

Within this expanded definition, we find more services to the east than commonly covered.   Cottonwood Dance and Fitness, Jana Long Dentistry, Mingus Center, Attorney Corbin Vandomoer, and Riverfront Gas Station add to the list.  Don't be confused, Riverfront Station is the one with the Spirit sign. 

 

“The station has been here since 1961, and I've had it since 1987,” current owner Richard Backus told me, just as I noticed the posting over his shoulder.  Taped to the window, it read, “USED DISC GOLF DISCS.”  Smart move.  Right across the street is Riverfront Park, which houses what's been called the “nicest Disc Golf course ever” by enthusiasts.  I smile to think, Old Town knows how to be of service, and like the Dragon, Richard is remaining passionate and driven about this, rising and flexing with the times.

 

In doing research for this article I became more proud than ever to be part of such a unique and growing community.  This January, I will launch into 2012 rejuvenated, by taking advantage of the services offered.  On the wish list: new tires for the wheelchair from Zoomers, a van tune up from Riverfront, a trim from Salon Envy, accounting help from Char Zack, massage from Judy at Soothing Touch, and an Immune Support tea from Verde Valley Acupuncture.  Keeping it local.  Why go anywhere else?

With Arizona's Centennial Celebration this Valentine's Day, February 14 2012, it seems an appropriate month to talk about the history of Cottonwood, and the concept of First Established.

 

FIRST ESTABLISHED

According to writer Roger Naylor, “The Cottonwoods originated as a campground and stopover for travelers near one of the three main crossings of the Verde River. In the 1870s, a few hearty settlers began to sink more permanent roots.”

 

Kyla Allen, Executive Assistant to City Manager Doug Bartosh, presented an evolution to the time frame during which Cottonwood truly got its name. As Mrs. Allen wrote, what she had published in the “AZ League of Cities and Towns magazine last year stated, (Cottonwood was), 'Established in 1879 and named after a circle of Cottonwood trees used as a camp by the initial settlers, Cottonwood was initially an agricultural and grazing area supplying food to the United Verde Mining Camp and the garrison at Fort Verde. Striving to be free of the restrictions and prejudices of the nearby 'company' towns, Cottonwood attracted many entrepreneurs and finally incorporated in November 1960.'”

 

There is no shortage of ways to celebrate here during this State Centennial month. Mrs. Allen wrote, “From now through July 4, we have at least an activity per month planned to celebrate the State of Arizona Centennial in the City of Cottonwood. In February these include a Centennial Birthday party on February 4, a statewide bell ringing event on February 14, and performances by our State Historian, Wyatt Earp, and State Balladeer at Old Town Center for the Arts. A few other events (throughout the year) include an Old Fashioned Easter Egg Hunt, the Brian Mickelsen Marathon and the Fourth of July Extravaganza.” In Old Town we will also celebrate with Centennial-themed Sizzling Salsa, Thunder Valley Rally, Rhythm & Ribs, Fall Carnival, Walkin' On Main, and Chocolate Walk. Visit the Old Town Association's oldtown.org for details.

 

So, it started with the Cottonwood tree, and from this came our City's namesake. As well, the Verde River provided a source for nourishment, cleansing, and activity to establish a community, which brought in culture from far and wide. Cottonwood has been home to Indians, Mexicans, Italians, Chinese, and the list is extensive. 

 

NATURAL BEGINNINGS

Today our cultural history is a mainstay of why folks voyage in from foreign lands. They want a slice of the Southwest, dreaming of seeing cowboys ride bareback through the plains and Indians stringing turquoise into woven baskets before their very eyes. Natural formations draw in fishermen, campers, horseback riders, bird watchers and trailer inhabitants to Dead Horse Ranch State Park. Tuzigoot National Monument, not quite in Old Town, but also a stone's throw away, is remnant of the way we once survived in the vast desert, building structures as watchtowers and protectors. A unique Sinaguan Indian ruin that sits atop a mound instead of high in a cliff wall, making itself accessible to all, Tuzigoot's elegant splay blends perfectly with its surroundings. Both of these public facilities deepen the rich cultural experience one can have in the Verde Valley.

 

Another Old Town extension into nature is the Jail Trail. Starting at the Old Town Jail, 1101 N Main St, adventurers can set out on a one mile hike along the wash, following flora and fauna, observing postmarks of cairns (little stacks of stones), to the Verde Greenway. At this end, a day tripper can wind past the Community Garden and the Dog Park, and right into the entrance of a world-class Frisbee Golf Course at Riverfront Park.

The Verde Greenway is a 480-acre, six-mile long riparian area. It encompasses the Fremont Cottonwood/Gooding Willow Riparian Gallery forest, one of five remaining stands in Arizona and one of 20 such stands in the world. In addition to birds, the cottonwoods and shrubs along the banks of the beautiful, winding Verde River also support nearly 20 threatened or endangered species, including river otter and lowland leopard frogs. Greenway visitors can also get a glimpse of coyotes, raccoons, mule deer, beavers, blue heron and other animals.

 

CONSTRUCTION BY MAN

Structures still standing from Cottonwood's heyday of the 1920s and 1930s include Cottonwood Bridge and Del Monte Wash Bridge. These cap-stone the Nationally Registered Commercial Historic District of Old Town. Within these bridges' boundary are the Civic Center (which was once the Civic Club), the Old Town Jail (once known as the Jailhouse), and the buildings currently housing the City Council Chambers, City Court, City Hall, and past-appointed Recreation Center and Gym.

 

As well, many of the merchants' buildings tell a history of burning and re-building, bootlegging and fires of distils gone blast in the past. Read the menu at the Tavern Grill, observe the bottle-width hole that drops to an underground cavern at the Pender Building on N Main St, take an Historic Walking Tour with Cottonwood Hotel's owner and Tour Guide, Karen Leff. Bootlegging aficionados come to hear Mrs. Leff's renegade historic recounts, visiting the past and the present through her Walk. Leff also relays common building details such as, “805 N. Main: Cottonwood Civic Center, with its river-rock face, was built by the WPA in 1939. It served as the town’s clubhouse. During World War II, it was converted to barracks for naval cadets.”

 

Another building covered in the Walk is the Contreras Pool Hall. Now addressed as 908 North Cactus Street, the Hall was built in 1904 and is the oldest commercial building still existing in Cottonwood. According to the Historic Resources Inventory: Cottonwood, Arizona; by Linda Laird and Associates; S.018, S.019, “the one-story stucco is long and narrow, and was constructed in the Commercial Style that was commonly used in this area through the 1920s. Decorative turned posts support a shed roof over the porch, which is complimented by the false front. Originally there was a chimney on the north side. In 1966 it was converted into a building for residential use.” Today it is a combination of both, as a one-room B&B and residence.

 

As Roger Naylor's piece The Secret's of Old Town details, “Following the fire of ‘25, most businesses were constructed using reinforced concrete, an experimental material at the time. Insurance companies decided that exploding stills and businesses constructed from kindling were a volatile mix, so wooden structures were banned. Even the old wooden boardwalk was replaced by raised concrete sidewalks covered by awnings. These design choices gave the community its distinctive look and careful preservation landed Old Town a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.”

 

CULTURE

Culturally representing stores like Jim & Ellen's Rock-N-Shop offer an array of items, as well as an experience in history. Once entering the two-story tall, Sears-sized collection of artifacts, one can read the land through the rocks and buy a piece of it to take home. It is an eclectic range of Mexican imports, Native American jewelry, Native American pottery, rocks, rock equipment, and decorative rugs. Open 7 days a week, from 9-6, it may be holding the most consistent and expansive hours in the building's history.

 

Some locals have left Cottonwood to retrieve culture from far away places, then return home to roost. Hal Cope (better known as “Bwana Hal”) was raised in Cottonwood, and recently returned to his hometown after an absence of 63 years. Mr. Cope graduated from Clarkdale High School in 1943, then joined the US Navy to serve his country in WWII. He left what was Cottonwood, and is now Old Town, and first traveled to Africa in 1962 after purchasing Safari Air Services, based in Nairobi, Kenya. As a young man, Mr. Cope dreamed of going to Kenya to hunt the big five: Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Elephant and the always dangerous, Cape Buffalo. After his return to the USA, he constructed and managed four Lion Country Safari Wildlife Parks, as a means of introducing masses of people to the wonder and beauty of African Wildlife. Mr. Cope continues that effort locally, by lecturing on African Wildlife and presenting slideshows of his African adventures.

 

BEAUTY

Modern antique shops reflect history through glorious crystals, fun bobbles and shiny ka-doodles in Papillon II. Their other items include Swank to Sailor outfits, deliriously ornate jewels and gorgeous furniture. Owners Jennifer McDonald and Sherry McMahon expanded into Old Town from their shop Papillon Antiques in Jerome, and live in that fabulous era. One can visit Mrs. Mahon's The Sullivan House or Mrs. McDonald's The Pink Lady House during Jerome's Annual Historic Home & Building Tour. Always the third weekend in May, 2012's 47th Annual Tour maintains it as the longest running home tour in Arizona.

 

A melange of sweet trinkets and other goods adorn the shelves of A Checkered Past Antiques. Enter into crate-like wooden shelves for an enjoyable walk through time and many pieces of local taste, from garden to desk. Mimi's Antiques, snuggled in between Alley Cats and the Tavern Grill, and sharing store space with Bonne Lait is a compliment en crème brulee. What better ambience than chocolate, cheese & antiques?

 

We can't talk about history without mention of Larry's. On 2-floors, it's an antiques' wonder-world cascading off the bend of N Main St. According to current owner Lawrence Cohen, “The building has been around since the turn of the century. It has been a gas station, feed store, model t repair shop, restaurant equipment store and antique store. 'Old Larry' moved in about 7 years ago and opened up the back yard and buildings. We bought it one year ago. While we rent some spaces, 70% of the merchandise is ours.” Regarding what specific favorites or eras are represented, Mr. Cohen said, “We have a trunk and a lot of tools from the 1700's, but most of our stuff is turn of the century. Our farm wagons are from the 1800's. We have a lot of stuff from the civil war and our primitive stone tools and matate's are over 1000 years old. In addition to regular antiques we have gas and oil, railroad, mine equipment, furniture, jewelry, clocks, radios, tools, western stuff and stoves.”

 

FLAVOR

The 2011 Chocolate Walk Best Chocolate winner Little Store UNIQUITIES, and Best Decorated Premiere Furniture, have both been stronghold in the Cottonwood area for some time. Representing between them an array of locally-produced craftsmanship, historic treasures, imported angels, Christmas year—round, and travel agency services. According to Mrs. Wright, Premiere Furniture Consignment offers, “quality and gently used items. Besides furniture, you will find unique home décor, art, collectibles and some antiques. New items are being consigned weekly; you’ll never know what you will find. Also, keep in mind that we do estate sales.” And she is a travel agent.

 

Little Store UNIQUITIES owner Catherine Capp details the Capp family's deeply intertwined Old Town relationships. “I have been in current location 6 years now. Both my daughters work in Old Town, one at the Tavern Grill/Tavern Hotel/Nic's; the other at the Old Town Cafe. My son helps in my business as much as his work schedule allows. The Little Store UNIQUITIES was your proverbial Mom and Pop store until Pop got real sick a little over 3 years ago and can no longer meet and greet the customers we both cherish so much. I try to keep the store unique with items that you can't find just anywhere and at an affordable price.” 

 

HISTORY

To celebrate Cottonwood's history, the nearby Dead Horse Ranch State Park annually hosts Verde River Days on the last Saturday and Sunday in September. A meadow transforms to battlefield where Civil War re-enactors wave their Union and Confederate flags and in eyeball-to-eyeball, musket-to-musket encounters, recreate a Civil War battle. The reenactment is one of the highlights of Verde River Days, which promotes preservation and care of the Verde River’s riparian habitat. The event will celebrate its 24th anniversary this September 2012. 

 

Just up the hill out of Old Town is Clemenceau Heritage Museum, housed in the original Clemenceau Public School building. Constructed in 1923-24 by James (Rawhide Jimmy) Douglas of the United Verde Extension Copper Company, the Museum offers permanent displays of a schoolroom, early 20th century home interiors, and artifacts and photographs that reflect the heyday of mining, ranching and farming that drove the economy of the Verde Valley since the arrival of white settlers in the second half of the 19th century. According to clemenceaumuseum.org, a current display representing Arizona's Centennial covers topics from transportation, communication, and lifestyle, and completes with the newest draw, viticulture.

 

With new attention turned toward Old Town, and the preservation of this unique abundance of Mom and Pop shops, one and a half years ago the City approved Cottonwood's first Historic Preservation Commission. The Commission helps guide those who are interested in finding out the history of their establishment or home, and, if applicable, helps those who decide to be listed on the National Historic Registry. According to one of the six Commissioners, Commissioner Glenda Farley, “Cottonwood's Past Deserves a Future.” And it seems she might be right.

Enter March

   As we swing out of the Holiday daze and enter the eclipse of Summer, March reminds us that anything can happen. It could sun or it could snow.

 

  Originally, Martius (March) was the first month of the Roman calendar. We can make sense of this arrangement. In their geographical region, the grips of winter were just beginning to lose their hold, thus the Romans believed the year should begin in March as the new season of life began, too. March is also associated with the planet Mars. Popularized as a warmonger, Mars was actually a fertility and agricultural deity first. He oversaw the new growth of Spring, and encouraged procreation in humans, plants and animals.

 

   Whether a god of war or of agriculture, the personality of Mars is charging, un-relinquishing and brutally assertive. We find this kind of fervent focus in the expression of March too. At this time of year, there is no stopping the burgeoning birth of new life. March (and Mars) is a high-speed locomotive on a single-focused monorail with only one objective: Explosive Expression. What better venue to embody this than through fashion, the ultimate external expression?

 

   This swing into Mars action sets in with Daylight Savings on the 11th, is celebrated with full party regalia for St. Patrick's Day on the 17th,  and concretes on the First Day of Spring on the 20th. A perfect reason to shop; to hit the streets for the neatest and most unique boutiques. Spring means a new wardrobe, some fresh bejeweled bits, or perhaps a lovely new camouflage set?

 

   According to The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition, the (n.) bou·tique is 2. A small business offering specialized products and services: an investment boutique; a health-care boutique. And comes from [French, from Old French botique, small shop, from Old Provençal botica, from Latin apothica, storehouse; see apothecary.].

 

   I like 'boutique' for all things, as opposed to 'mega,' 'warehouse' or 'chain.' However, when it comes down to it, I prefer boutique [buːˈtiːk] as described in Collins English Dictionary – Complete and Unabridged, 2003, as (n.) 1. (Business / Commerce) a shop, esp a small one selling fashionable clothes and other items. It seems this is somehow it's purest form: the original fashion boutique. And so in this article, thus I examine the Unique Boutiques of Old Town from this writer's eye.

 

Express Yourself   

   Alley Cats Yarn, Beads & Clothing offers an array of fashionista fixes. From boots and shoes, to skirts and vests, shirts and jackets, jewelry and everything in between including labels such as Ad Hoc, also sold at Anthropology. Offerings include one of the largest bead collections in Northern Arizona. Lisa Hering is sole owner and has the type of eye Cottonwood can appreciate, blending Western meets the Far East to Soho. Since 2007 at her location in Old Town and open 7 days a week, Mon-Sat 10-6PM, and Sun from noon-5PM.

 

   Foxy Fashions draws me in with its arched entry and mystique of that 'end of the road' location. In this location for 9 years, Sandra & James Rea run a boutique and a floor covering business. When asked her favorite items for sale, Mrs. Rea details the shops, “nice line of skirts, dresses, wedding wear, shawls, one- or two-of-a-kind items. I carry merchandise that is strictly feminine, because that is what I like.” In my visits to the shop I've noticed the nice array of Red Hat Society items for the red hat ladies. The jewelry is affordable, unique, and they have a large array of dichroic earrings, and other locally handmade earrings in every color of the rainbow. “There are also resale items available,” added in Mrs. Rea. “And don't forget we do all types of floor coverings and sell carpet, vinyl and custom rugs.”

   

   Two Boutiques collide with Cindi Bee and Pretty Shabby. These locally owned shops joined as one and have been open for nearly 2 years. Inventory is bursting from ceiling to floor with eclectic items that accentuate the unusual with bling, fun, whimsy and uniqueness. Local artists and authors are frequently featured. Items include a kaleidoscope of sparkling colorful gifts, vintage items, shabby chic furniture, clothes, jewelry, embellishments, and a whole outdoor patio of garden and patio art. Visit owners Cindi Bee of the store with her namesake, and Debbie Crick of Pretty Shabby.

 

   Barter Inn owner Penny Fortner set up her fort here in her current Old Town location 26 years ago, and has never looked back. “I used to live in the store,” Ms. Fortner told me, “and then over time was able to move out and expand the store.” According to Ms. Fortner, in addition to the “best boots in the world,” the Inn also carries everything from flashlights and backpacks to machetes, sleeping bags and canteens. OK, all you hunters, sheriffs, hikers, bikers and cops, time for a new set of Spring fatigues? I'll be stopping in for her in-store packaged hand-made organic soap. Perfect for bathing in the wilderness, while keeping yourself and the trees clean and happy.

 

   Bits & Pieces owner Gayle Zalena has an eye for the romantic and unique. When I look in her boutique's windows I see lace and jagged wood, leopard print and turquoise. According to Ms. Zalena, “Bitts & Pieces makes all our own wonderful art pieces. One-of-a-kind is our specialty. Wood furniture with our own unique design style is what you see, also items for the home, soft dolls of all kinds, jewelry, pillows, clothing, purses, treasures, and more.” This thirty-year-old business has spent its last twenty years in Old Town Cottonwood. Ms. Zalena added, “We also have Art Classes with specialized teachers throughout the year, soon to be on-line at www.BittsandPieces.com.” Shop is open Wednesdays through Saturdays, call 928-639-2033 for hours. 

 

   I thought eBay storefronts only were for real in movies like The 40 Year Old Virgin, but Old Town has such unique boutiques that we even have our very own eBay store Outlaw Trading Company. “Outlaw Trading Post is an eBay consignment store. Using the power of the internet for global commerce, we find buyers from around the world to pay cash for local treasures. To put it simply, our motto says it all 'The Modern Way of Old Time Trade',” wrote Jamie Treguboff, Customer Service Manager of Outlaw. During Thunder Valley Rally, I was impressed to see they were ready with fashionable biker T-shirts donning the logo to wear and ride.

 

   If you are ready to make an existing item work better, The Sewing Box owner Donna Bloom prides herself in the best alteration prices around. Mrs. Bloom commented, “I only charge about $5 to alter a shirt or a pair of slacks. I like to keep it affordable for my customers here in the Verde Valley.” Opened six months ago, The Sewing Box sells fabrics, crafting items, some beads, and cross-stitch materials such as DMC threads. Mrs. Bloom also makes and redesigns wedding dresses, stitches quilts, and offers private teaching classes for quilting. “Mostly my customers are from here in Cottonwood and Camp Verde, but some are from Sedona,” commented Mrs. Bloom. Store hours are 7:30AM-4PM, Monday through Friday in the old Horses-R-Us location.

 

   Ye Ole Hippie Emporium is as bright on the inside as it is on the outside. Clothes, books, jewelry, gems and other fashion finds for home and body will keep you reading, peeking, and finding treasure for hours on end. 

 

Bejeweling of the Body

   Clair Rasmussen of Magenta Jewelry moved his jewelry store to Sedona 30 years ago, and started Magenta Jewelry in it's Old Town location 20 years ago. His values for the shop can be summarized thus, "I travel to market 2 to 3 times a year, to constantly see new designs and new artists, and I personally hand pick every item that shows up in the store. It has to move me in some way, or I don't buy it. Select pieces are offered from my work, and from other artist's work I admire. My jewelry focuses on being "unusual enough" to set you apart, but not extreme. I strive to offer high quality, but with careful attention to price, and we always focus on different items than you can't see everywhere else." The shop has a Navajo silversmith on staff, so Mr. Rasmussen can handle contemporary goldsmith design and repairs, while Glen Whitehair handles Native Jewelry design and repairs. 

 

   Veronica Jauregui opened Betty's Attic 8 years ago on May 5th 2004. Mrs. Jauregui finds most of her merchandise at estate sales, store closeout sales, and events such as the Tucson Gem & Mineral Show. She also has consignment items, such as turquoise & silver jewelry by Barbara Haggerty from Camp Verde. Her favorite current sellers are jewelry from the Tucson show, China paintings, pretty old bottles in a variety of color, depression glass, and Fostoria glass. I know one of the main items ahhed at in The Annabel Inn is a gorgeous multi-colored glass peacock lamp I scored there. Head on down and see what Betty's Attic has for you. Open Tues, Thrs, Fri, Sat, 10AM-4PM, and sometimes more.

 

   Architecturally huge for my boutique image, color yourself fancy in the world renowned house of glitter production, the Art Glitter Institute, once visited by Martha Stewart and seen on QVC and other shopping networks. No matter what favorite item you'd like to dress up, glitters can be found here in every color and applied to clothing, purses, and accessories, in addition to stylizing a sign, some letterhead paper, or perhaps even yourself. I always know when an Annabel Inn guest has been to the shop, by the sparkle in their hair and the bedazzling purple and pink glitters on their cheeks. Classes, free demos, and more available. Visit www.artglitter.com.

   

Home Enhancement

   Little Store UNIQUITIES has been in its current location for six years now and has local artisan crafts such as LivingWare Pottery's japanese ikebanas. Catering to Christmas all year round is not all they do, but it sure is one of my favorite aspects of the sweet little shop. You can also find boutique items for garden and household, pretty wooden jewelry boxes, and much more. Store owners Bill and Cathy try to keep the store unique with items that you can't find just anywhere and at an affordable price. Most merchandise is new, although they have recently mixed it up with nice second-hand items. 

 

   Sharing space with UNIQUITIES is River's Edge whose specialty is a great range: gifts, beads, and home decor, including unique custom furniture. They are a small, eclectic, colorful gift shop, with something for everyone. Adorning the walls is folk art from around the world, tapestries, beaded curtains, wall-hangings, and sarongs. Making the place tinkle are wind chimes, musical instruments and lots of bells. They also carry sacred statuary and are an outlet for unique, custom-made furniture, shelving, well, any woodwork. They have an array of findings for jewelry creation, including tools. As Annie, sole proprietor and whole work force commented, “Our prices are pleasantly affordable, in an attempt to keep it real for the people of the Verde Valley.” Hours are Tuesdays through Saturdays 10:30AM to 5:00PM.

 

   RobinArt owners Gary and Robin have been making beautiful artwork for over 20 years. Their combined talents and materials are in form for functions from body wear (that would be jewelry) to house beautification (that would be sculptures). The couple create jewelry, fused glass, metalwork, paintings, and also work with stone and wood. Many of the materials are collected by the artists locally. According to the dynamic duo, “The ideas are never-ending, that keeps the interest up. We have our studio/retail store in the old garage that was part of the Ford dealership. We both like lots of color! Our work is both whimsical and contemplative. The fact that the work is made is the USA is unique nowadays, and we also have a few other local artists showing.” Visit 1044 N. Main St. or call (928) 639-9400.

 

   “Cate Studio & Gallery is a stained glass – photography - fine art studio,” according to owner and artist Monika Cate. The stained glass studio, open since 1989, arrived in Old Town in 2004. The gallery above the studio, open since November 2009, shows Mrs. Cate's work, as well as the works of other artists, space permitting. Mrs. Cate's main work are her custom designs for commissioned stained glass doors, windows, mirrors & lamps. Her love of the play of light and glass lets her enjoy every new project with the same excitement she felt when she first started 30 years ago in her native Germany. Since arriving in Sedona in 1988, her stained glass was commissioned for residential and commercial buildings in Sedona, Cornville, Flagstaff and Cottonwood. Photography is her other passion, currently her gallery is showing a series of flower still-life named Flower Songs, part of her ongoing show: “Angels, Roses, Stars and Dots.” The angels are photographs and cards by German author Christian Erdmann. Old Town musician and artist Dave Rentz shows mannequins, to which he gives a second life with his incredible expression through colored dots. Gallery & Studio are located one block west of Main Street on Cactus Street, behind a 1928 historic residence in a charming courtyard. Gallery hours are Wednesday to Saturday, 1PM - 5PM. For custom stained glass inquiries call (928) 634-4980.

 

   Boutique? What's in a name? These days “boutique” hotels, motels, wineries, and other specialized micro-production amenities come in all shapes and sizes outside of the traditional boutique. But March brings me back to fashion, and the traditional-definition of Unique Boutique that resides in my heart. It seems the perfect month to find a purse for Spring, grab a new thermos for St. Patties, or score a one-of-a-kind clock to reset on Daylight Savings Time, except, of course, if you live here in Old Town Cottonwood, or anywhere else in our splendid boutique State of Ari-zon-i-a.

 

   Visit the Old Town Association's oldtown.org/events to see daily Old Town specials, evenings of music, and more to be had between shops while meandering along Historic 89A.