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And finally I would like to say, enjoy life to the fullest you can. My old friend Frank James Outlaw has had a life long passion for racing stock cars. He still races, recently he showed me a trophy he won for 1st place at a north valley raceway. He won the race 20 days after his 67th birthday. Way to go Frank. So remember keep "The Spirit of the Old West Alive".
Suddenly bright lights flash past him, he hears loud voices, and loud music, as a car speeds past him. Then silence, only the soft western music on his radio. Then a loud BANG from his back seat with a bright flash of light. It would be determined later that a Cherry Bomb had been tossed into his car. At first he's frightened, then mad. Who the hell were these guys that would throw a Cherry Bomb into his car. So when he pulls into the parking lot at Pinnacle Peak Patio, he parks near the car that had passed him, and goes over to check it out.
Meanwhile the guys from the speeding car were inside leaning on the bar demanding the bartender serve them some drinks. Well this might have been a part time bartender, but he was a full time cowboy and he wasn't intimidated by some drunken eastern dudes. He said "Boys its about time you leave before somebody gets hurt." As they filed out the door, one was heard to say, "lets get our guns".
Herman was cooking at the outside grill next to the patio.<Yes Herman Dickson the guy that fell into the mine shaft in 1961> Well Herman sees the customers on the covered patio dropping to the floor, and wonders what the hell is going on. The people were hiding behind the low patio walls. Then he sees this car pulled up by the arches in the parking lot, with rifles sticking out of the windows. So Herman ducks behind the big grill to keep out of the line of fire. But, no guns go off and the car just sped off back down the hill. Now the bartenders and some of the other cowboys grab their guns and take off after them.
Someone called the Sheriff's Dept. and the Sheriff was on his way. Well the drunken eastern dudes missed the first curve and rolled their car at Alma School and Happy Valley Road. So now the cowboys caught up with them and the fight was on. Even the customers went down to watch. The Sheriff had driven right past these people and came flying into the parking lot where Herman was waiting, and says "Where's all the action"? Herman says "Hell you just came through it, can't you hear all that shootin"? Sheriff says " I thought I did", and gets on his radio and says he was shot at. Well there were a lot of shots fired so a lot of people were shot at.
It just so happens that this was target practice night at the Sheriff's Dept shooting range on 7th st. We can only imagine how the Sheriff's radio report was received at target practice. But I'll bet if I was in a helicopter overhead it looked like a string of Christmas tree lights snaking its way up to Pinnacle Peak. Lights a flashin, sirens screaming, and dust a flyin.
Deputies picked up two of the guys walking down the road that night. The next day a detective picked up the third guy out in the desert. When the three guys went to court nothing happened. Their eastern family name and money had a powerful influence even way out here in the Wild West.
P.S. It seems the good samaretin in this story is the guy that had a Cherry Bomb thrown into his car. It was later found out that while these guys were in the bar trying to get a drink, the Cherry Bomb victim had walked up to their car and seeing rifles laying inside had proceeded to unload them. No one was shot or hurt that night, but it could have ended differently.
When Herman finally got out he was in a wheel chair. His right leg was in a big cast. So was his left arm, he would be in a wheel chair for three months, then on crutches. When he returned to Paradise Valley High School that fall some of his classmates were surprised, they'd heard he died. Herman went on to graduate in 1963. He would return to Pinnacle Peak Patio in 1964, working as a cook. All this time Marv kept on working at Pinnacle Peak Patio as cook, maintenance, & sometimes night watchman.
Business at the "Patio" just kept getting better, local celebrities and other famous people were discovering the delicious T-Bone steaks grilled over a Mesquite fire, giving them a distinctive woody flavor. There was much more to come, bigger and bigger groups were starting to come up to Pinnacle Peak. Conventions were starting to book events, and they wanted entertainment. They wanted to see real Cowboys, and gunfights.
In the next chapter I'll tell you about a real live gunfight at Pinnacle Peak Patio. Then I'll tell you about some guys that started playing the different characters out of the old west, and the first "Old Prospector". They all would go on to entertain people coming in from all over the world. I'll introduce you to the men from "Guns For Hire Inc.".
When the rope broke Bill jumped out of the truck and ran back to the mine shaft. While they are all hollering down into the darkness, they hear something behind them and to their horror, the truck is rolling back toward them. The nearest one manages to get in the truck and stop it, before it pushes all of them down the hole and follows them in. Luckily they have a couple more pieces of rope they can tie to the end and throw it back down the shaft.
But now Herman can't use his left arm or his right leg. So he just wraps the rope around his right hand and hangs on tight. Bill puts the truck in gear and again slowly drives forward dragging Herman slowly back up the shaft. Herman hangs on, its got to work this time, he's been losing blood, he's thirsty and weak. He tries to push himself away from the rocky walls to avoid being dragged against the jagged rocks. But as he tries to push away from the wall he begins to spin one way or another. As he again nears the top he see's the rope being dragged through the same grove in the rocks. He can't let go and now his right hand is being dragged through this jagged grove. Skin and flesh are torn , but he hangs on until he feels many hands grabbing unto him. He would not go down the shaft a third time. He was out.
Now they raced back to Pinnacle Peak Patio, where the Sheriff has been waiting for them. There was no one there to tell him where the accident had happened. He had come all the way from Apache Junction.
In May that year when Paradise Valley High, let out for the summer, Marv and Herman started working days doing clean up work. There was a big pile of booze bottles out back that took three truck loads to haul away. Cactus trimmings, lots of boxes, it all had to go somewhere. That somewhere was an abandoned mine shaft everyone in the area was using as a landfill. It was located about three miles east of Pinnacle Peak Patio up on the side of Troon Mountain. Near what is today 116th st. and Jomax road. This unshored up mine shaft went down at a slight angle 65 feet. The drive up there would usually take them a good half an hour, driving in low gear, over this winding, rutted trail thru some dry washes and then up the side of old Troon, some locals called Boulder Montain.
They would carefully back their truck up to the edge until the tailgate hung over the rocky hole. Down this jagged rocky throat rained all kinds of trash. Booze bottles bounceing and exploding off the jagged rocky sides, then disappearing into the darkness below. Two loads of the Spanish Dagger Cactus, with long sharp points had just went down into this pit. Then more cardboard boxes sent down, gasoline was then poured onto this pile of rubble down in the darkness. Now......... wait awhile and let the fumes build up, then set fire to one last cardboard box, and kick it into the hole and run like hell. The firey roar that came out of this Dragon,s throat was really something to see. Marv & Herman remember it well. Once it had set the serounding desert brush and grass on fire, keeping them busy stamping out the fire and stopping it from spreading.
Monday June 12th, 1961 was another hot day in the desert north of Scottsdale, Arizona. This day Marv and Herman will never forget. After another busy week end, more trash had to be hauled to the local landfill, i.e., the mine shaft on Troon Mountain. They ad dumped several loads on Friday and after the last load, set it all on fire. This fire could smolder for days. Now on Monday they had dumped a couple of loads, maybe one more to go. Again they carefully backed the pick-up to the edge of the hole, so the tail gate hung over the hole. Some smoke was still wafting up from the smoldering trash. They wanted to finish this job before it got too hot.This time of the year the temperature could normally go to 110 to 115 degrees in the shade, and there was no shade. Oh yah, its a Dry Heat all right.
A heavy 55 gallon barrel of trash had to be dumped, so Marv climbed up onto the tailgate and got behind the barrel to push it back onto the tailgate. But it was heavy so Herman was going to climb up and help. They still are not sure how it happened, but the tailgate suddenly gave way as herman put his weight on it. Down Herman went , straight down the center of the shaft. Landing on the slope of the trash and tumbling on down to the bottom. He had sprung his ankle and wrenched his back but was otherwise okay.
Now Marv turning around see's Herman is gone. Pannick stricken he begins hollering down into the mine shaft. Herman hollers back letting him know he's okay. Herman's lucky , if this had happened a week earlier before more trash was added, glass shards from broken bottles, and the Spanish Dagger Cactus with sharp spear points would have been waiting for him. As it is the fire is still smoldering , so its hot and smokey. In a way , Herman says the fire was a good thing, usually there are Rattle Snakes down in these abandoned mine shafts. But because of the fire there are none in this one. Herman found some tin cans and put them up to set on and put his feet on , because the fire is still burning below him. So you know its hot down there with smoke and not mch oxygen to breathe. The space at the bottom was only 10 or 12 foot square. When Herman looked up, the light at the top was about the size of a postage stamp.
Marv didn't want to leave his brother, ut Herman finally convinced him, Marv had to go for help. So Marv jumped in the truck and roared off down the trail, spilling the remaining cans and 55 gallon drum and its contents along the way. Down the road he sped, through the dry wash and over humps he normally drove in low gear. But now the dust was flying , he came into the parking lot on two wheels and skidded to a stop in a cloud of dust. Running inside hollering for someone to help. Marv was so pannicked and out of breath he couldn't even talk when Bill Depew asked him what was wrong.
After they had radioded the Sheriff's Dept. They gathered up what they could find of ropes or chains they could piece together to reach down the full 65 foot shaft. Then Marv along with Bill, Jim Capron , and a steak salesman that happened to be at the Patio, raced back to the abandoned mine. Herman said it seemed like he was gone 4 or 5 hours. But in reality Herman had now been down in the ot smokey mine shaft about an hour and a half. After tying these sections of rope and chains together then throwing one end down to Herman. They tried pulling him up by hand , but couldn't. So then they tied their end to the back of the truck. Bill got in and started moving it forward. Herman had tied his end around his waist and was hanging on tight as he could.
Slowly the truck moved forward and slowly Herman began to rise up from the dark, hot, smokey pit. Slowly as he came up the shaft he could see the pening getting larger, where frightened faces and safety was waiting. As he got nearer the top he could also see where the rope was being pulled through a jagged notch in the rocks. And just as he got close, the rope broke.
- We gathered again at the Bison Museum, in Scottsdale, Az. to Honor someone for keeping the "Spirit of the Old West Alive". Bob Boz Bel has been keeping the "Spirit" alive in many ways, books, paintings, cartoons, but manly thru his national publication of True West magazine. I think it is by far the best western magazine out there, having good accurate western stories along side graphics helping the reader to see the story .
The O K Corral managed by Don Taylor is a must see.The forty five minute skit adds a good background story leading up to the famous shoot out. This is by far one of the best live western performances I've seen. It takes a lot of hard work to make it look good. This Doc Holiday is Good, Real Good!! Do yourself a favor and take in the performance at the "O K Corral".
The Helldorado Days Parade is always an enjoyable procession of floats, and people, some walking, some marching, some dancing, on foot and horseback. All passing by the Judges, presided over by Patrick Kelly.
The Arizona Duuude's week end stay at the Lorian Motel, was great thanks Gordon. Hungry stops at the Longhorn, O K Cafe, & Nellie Cashmans, were welcome pit stops along the way.
The Friday night gathering at the Rose Tree Museum, was especially enjoyable. Sophie Corrales, Helldorado Parade Marshal, was Honored, young Princesses were crowned, friendships renewed, wine was served, smiles were passed about. A good time was had by all. All presided over by Mayor Don Aiton.
I'm going back to Tombstone, to spend some more time along Allen street. Then I'll walk over and visit with Ben, I like his books and his take on life.
Besides ranchers, this area is a haven for Birders, and nature lovers, ultra lite flyers at skygypsyaviation.com , a scenic airstrip complete with hangar, R V park, a lovely cafe nearby, with a game room where a Grand piano sits waiting. An excellent private movie theatre that seats 32 very comfortably. A professional Rodeo arena is being built nearby in Rodeo, N.M. a few miles closeby is Rodeo naturalmarket.com . A large new trailer park especially for mobile homes pulling horse trailers. Each space having a side area big enough for a portable horse pen.
Then there is Sky Village, just north of Portal. A place that has some dark nights, I mean it has very little man made light pollution, making it attractive to Astronomers. Everyone here has a very professional observatory in their own back yard. Rick Beno gave us a tour of his and it is truly a great set up. Go to conferringwiththesky.org . Going back over to Portal, be sure to stop by the friendly library where you may just run into a couple of well known authors that have made their home here.
The Portal Peak Lodge, is the center of a very caring community. A call to 911 is referred Mitch or his wife Lonnie, owner's of the Lodge, who then dispatch the volenteer rescue, medical, fire, emergency personnel. Who, by the way recieve no taxpayer funds for this service. The state representative for this area really needs to step up and help these people who don't hesitate helping others.
The artwork of the map, Portal Peak Lodge, and Portal postcard, is the creation of Bob Waldmire. A truly unique person, put his name on Google and you'll see what I mean. I wish I would have met him back in the Route 66 hey day. Bob has traveled Route 66 from end to end many times and knows more people along it than anyone I've ever met. He is truly a part of "Our West",
So next time your headed toward south eastern Arizona, find Portal, it is close to Paradise.
Out of breath standing beside the Spring fed creek, Ben stood still as the Cowboy in the big white hat rode up on his beautiful horse. He could only nod his head up and down when the Cowboy pulled up, looked down and said, "Howdy little pardner would you like to go see the animals go get a drink of water?" Ben reached up to the hand that came down to him, and in one smooth move he was sitting in the saddle in front of the Cowboy with the big white hat. These animals Ben had never seen before, Zebras, Giraffs, Lions, and Elephants. But he had seen an Elephant before.
When the Cowboy with the big white hat brought Ben back to where his Dad waited for him at the end of their lane, the Cowboy said as he handed him down, "Don't be hard on the boy mister, he just wanted to see the animals." A few days later Ben's Dad asked him if he wanted to go see the Circus? Well of course they got there plenty early, so they got a front row seat. It was a great show, and Ben finally found out who the Cowboy in the big white hat was. Because at the end of the show, Tom Mix rode his horse Tony over in front of where Ben and his Dad sat, both did a bow, Tom pointed right at Ben tipped his hat and said, "This ones for you little pardner."
Ben told me this recently in Tombstone, Az. . Said he remembered it like it was yesterday. But, Ben is 81 now and he will never forget the day he sat on a horse named Tony with Tom Mix, on a warm spring day in 1937, near Watertown, Tennessee.
Here beside the bridge over Antelope Creek, Cordes Station waits for another Stage Coach. The barn where once horses and hay were kept, sits empty, waiting. This is a place where the New West , our West passes right through the Old West. But there is life here, the Cordes family is still here. Friends and neighbors along this well traveled Stage Route stop by to say Hi and visit with Cathy and Ricky. The cattle still roam freely here, Its still, "Home on the Range".
So next time your traveling north or south on I-17, pull off at the Bloody Basin exit, its the first exit south of Cordes Junction, then follow the gravel road 3 miles west, to Cordes Station. Stop and visit awhile. Imagine what it would be like traveling by Stage Coach a little over 100 years ago. Oh yeah, its only open Saturday and Sunday. See you then Pardner.
<> Soon after Bill & Dottie took over the little store they named PINNACLE PEAK PATIO, people began coming by to just have a Beer and a Burger and hang out. But it really took off when Bill started serving Big T-Bone steaks. Word spread and within a couple of years he had a thriving business going. But when the lease on the little store came up for renewal, Bill was informed that the price had went up. Bill & Dottie again talked it over and decided to see the owner of the Cresent Moon Ranch about buying a few acres. So in the fall of 1959 Bill & Dottie bought 10 acres from Lois Duncan owner of the Cresent Moon Ranch. Bill, Dottie, and daughters Trudy & Sherrie along with close friends, and regular customers, helped clear an area for the new PINNACLE PEAK PATIO, at its present location. All lent a hand in the building, and the story goes that they were open before it was finished. One day Bill went into Scottsdale and got his permit okayed, and they were serving Bill's Big T-Bone steaks that very night.
<> During this time Marv and brother Herman became regulars too, although too young to drink a beer, they really liked the Burgers and would save up money to buy one of those Big Mesquite flavored steaks. Herman went to work for Bill as a dishwasher in December 1960. Herman said "The first Saturday night I worked they served 450 steaks." Not bad for a place that seated maybe 85 people packed tight. Marv would follow, and go to work for Bill & Dottie in April 1961. Marv started in the kitchen but was soon moved out to the grill. His first night was a real baptism in fire, as the Cook that was supposed to train him, didn't show up, and Marv cooked 300 steaks by himself.
<> There were no menus, just a smiling pretty cowgirl waitress saying, "How would you like your steak cooked?" A side of Cowboy Beans and a Roll, all this washed down by some hot black coffee or a cold Beer. There always seemed to be more customers than coffee cups, so many times regular customers would jump in and help do the dishes , these were some real devoted customers. They had traveled many miles over rough hilly Desert terrain, dodging ruts , rocks, and even cattle. This was open range you know. Then having arrived , they would stand in line and wait their turn, even in the rain. These were some real loyal customers, and I might add , very hungry and determined to get Bill's Big T-Bone Steak.
<> Read the excerpt from K.T. Palmer's book "For Land's Sake", page 189, "The creator of that lucrative eating establishment came, I'am told from Ohio, but you never saw a more authentic looking Cowboy than Bill DePew, as he stood broiling his two-pound steaks over an outdoor Mesquite fire. Cowboy hat pushed back, booted and spurred, with six-gun riding his levi clad hip. Admiring "dudes" from eastern big cities ate it up, which was more than most of them could do with Bill's platter-size T-Bones."
Bill was happy with his successful Cowboy Steakhouse, but one thing still bothered him, he wanted a casual eating establishment, a place to relax. It must have irked him when "Dudes" came in with their suits and tie's. Well one night it must have just got to Bill , he's working hard and it's hot and smokey around the grill, and in walks a "Dude" all "Dude'd" out in suit and tie. This was just too much, I can just see Bill going over and saying something like " Hey Dude you really don't have to wear a suit and tie out here , this is supposed to be a casual place". Well whatever the Dude said, Bill's next move, removed the offensive tie with his steak knife. This no doubt surprised everyone, but the Dude I guess just laughed and took out his business card and said "Here put this with the tie so everyone will know who it belonged to." Well Bill nailed the card and tie up on the ceiling and a tradition was born.
Today when you pull up in front of PINNACLE PEAK PATIO and park , the original part of the building is to your right. Everything else moving to the left is an add on over the years. Try and imagine seeing the desert around you with no buildings in sight. In this day of cell phones I might add that back then there were no phones at PINNACLE PEAK PATIO. The only contact with the outside world was the Maricopa Sheriff's Dept. radio. Want to know how fast a Saguaro Cactus grows? Well, the Saguaro to the left of the original front entrance near the wagon wheel, was two feet tall in 1959. Check it out.
Do Not turn left at the FireHouse when leaving Jerome and heading to Presscott, continue straight on the gravel road. This road is presently being paved all the way to the parking lot of the Gold King Mine & Ghost Town. When you hear the whistle blow you’ll know you have arrived. Don Robertson opened the Gold King Mine & Ghost Town, July 3rd 1982. This historical landmark contains many old vehicles and many antiques located in old buildings through out the town. The actual working saw mill, was built in Kansas City, by the Witte Iron Works in 1914. It was designed to run on Kerosene, because Kerosene was much cheaper, but will run on gas. You can buy custom cut lumber for your mantle or any other project you have that needs a unique piece of wood to set it off. The view from the mill is spectacular. Many remember Don’s sign above his work area, "Tipping is not a city in China"! So stop by and say Hi to Don and his sidekick Burro Pedro Gonzales, Gonzales, Gonzales...........
This article was in the September 2008 Issue of the Wild West Gazette which can be found online at www.wildwestgazette.com .
- Location:Arizona
- Location:Arizona
Thursday’s with Big Marv: The memories always come flooding back to me, everytime I visit this old friend. Its hard to believe all the years that have passed since we once worked together. I don’t really remember how I came to work there, but it was the winter of ‘68-’69. Little did I know at the time just how much this job would influence the rest of my life, especially now. I somehow managed to manage the "Sweet Tooth Saloon". The Sweet Tooth name was there because it had been an ice cream and candy shop. But now it was a cowboy bar attached to a fast becoming famous steakhouse, way out at the end of the paved road. The tourists left early leaving behind a real wild west saloon. It was just a lot of fun. Where the large Tarantulas would sun themselves, on the boardwalk just outside the swinging doors, is where I would join them to enjoy the last rays of the setting sun, until the first tourists arrived. Then they would retreat to their homes under the boardwalk, and I behind the bar. The Cowboy band would set up amidst much laughing and joking, while tuning their guitars. The music was loud, but not too loud, and of an era for that generation. Then after the tourists left, it was down to some serious dancing and drinking. Yes, it could get rowdy. But mainly it was just a lot of fun. Those were the days my friends and I, well we thought they would never end. <> So ride along with me down memory lane, as I take you back to a place that was nearly at the end of the paved road, and at the end of a time we now look back upon through misty eyes. There were still wild burros in the area, decendents of old prospectors burros that were turned loose. I’ll tell of the times we foolishly tried to ride them. Before my time there was a tame young deer that came around and would eat the salads off the tables. "Big Marv" and Lola, who runs the kitchen, have many memories they will share with you. So stay tuned to "Thursdays with Big Marv", and the continuing saga of Pinnacle Peak Patio.
The 1948 Ford Station Wagon rolled to a stop at a small store in the desert near Pinnacle Peak. Two young guys stepped out and greeted the owner of this small store and said they needed some gas, but they only had 50 cents between them. Bill DePew, the store owner smiled and filled their tank, collected the 50 cents smiled again and said have a nice day and stop again. On this sunny day in the spring of 1959, in the desert north of Scottsdale, Marv and his brother Herman Dickson were on their way to the Verde River. Little did they know then that this chance encounter would draw them back to this little store in the desert, and Marv would not leave for the next 50 years. Both would become well known, around the world. Stay tuned for more of Marv’s story and the little store in the desert that became a famous Steak House.
For the past few Thursdays I have been visiting with "Big Marv", head cook at Pinnacle Peak Patio. LeeAnn Sharpe and I have been busy scanning old photos and articles into a digital base that will be the recorded history of Pinnacle Peak Patio. Big Marv knows the history better than anyone, and has collected memorabilia of the area for 50 years. Marv puts names and dates to the old photos, as we scan them in. This project may take some time so stay tuned by visiting the Wild West Gazette, & The World of the Arizona Duuude, or the AZDuuude blog. You can also send us your antidotes and personal stories of your visit to Pinnacle Peak Patio, email to PinnaclePeakPatioMemories.com. I sure would like to have a photo of that 1948 "Woody" Station Wagon. or at least a photo of a young Marv!
- Location:Arizona
- Mood:
chipper
Prescott was a Beehive of activity this Saturday morning. The staging for the 121st Annual Prescott Rodeo Parade was in progress. It was a bright sunny morning after a , in some places, stormy night. I would be with entry number 157, Shuttle U of Prescott. Shuttle U offers the public 16 trips a day, 7 days a week to Skyharbor Airport. Also represented was the bimonthly Wild West Gazette, devoted to the history of the west, especially Arizona. My connection to both of these two enterprises, is with Shuttle U as a shuttle driver, and with the Wild West Gazette as a writer and promoter of western, especially Arizona's historical places to visit.
We were number 157 of a little over 200. So most of the entrants in the parade got to see us as they passed by us as we waited our turn. As a matter of fact an interesting thing happened as a result of our position. Bill, an employee of Shuttle U who works in the office, is a member of the Prescott Rough Riders, and they marched in the begining of the parade. Well, Bill finished the parade with the Rough Riders and came back around to visit us while we waited our turn. So he thought , what the heck. Seeings I'm an employee of Shuttle U I might as well change my outfit and go around again. So he did.
Finally it was our turn and we began our tour around Courthouse Square. We were passing the latest issue of the Wild West Gazette, a Shuttle U schedule and either an American or Arizona state flag. We discovered right away that the kids really went after the Arizona state flag. I asked one youngster "Don't you want an American flag"? he said, "I already have an American flag, but not an Arizona flag". I have found that Arizona flags are hard to find, and that not only kids would like one. So if you would like one let the Arizona Duuude know and I'll check around for a source with good prices. So I'm sorry to say we ran out of flags and papers way before the end of the parade.
- Location:Prescott AZ
- Mood: cheerful
Fireworks in Cave Creek >>> Traffic was pouring into Cave Creek from all directions, as the Monsoon clouds gathered overhead. Large white tables and chairs were set in the couryard of Frontier Town, in front of the Satisfied Frog Restaurant. The Fireworks were set to start at 9 pm. Friends and I had reservations for 5pm and it was busy , or should I say packed. After a delicious meal, I put on my Arizona flag shirt and became "The Arizona Duuude".
I really enjoy visiting with people and hearing their story of when they came to Arizona, and where they came from. No two stories are the same. There was a steady line at the outdoor grill for BBQ , Hamburgers, and of course the traditional all American Hot Dog. As I visited among the now full courtyard, gusts of wind and darkening clouds stirred rumors of the 4th of July Fireworks being canceled. But no, everything was still going as planned , and ten minutes early the first BOOM signaled the begining of the fireworks in the cloudy sky.
For a solid 30 minutes the crowd was treated to a spectacular light show with the ever present threat of a Monsoon storm. And there were storms nearby, a big one seemed to stay just to the east and moved south. The grand finale seemed to repeat and go on a long time. It was indeed a spectacular show, and I could see everyone had a good time. Maricopa County's finest did a great job keeping the traffic moving during the evening and an orderly departure at the end of an enjoyable evening.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA
- Location:Cave Creek, AZ
- Mood: cheerful
Travels & Insight from the Arizona Duuude (July 2008 Wild West Gazette article)
Arizona State Capitol, June 2nd, 2008. The long awaited time had arrived. Ten years since the first one. Slowly marking each year quarterly. From Sea to shining Sea we are a nation of many states, each having its own unique identity. Forty seven of the fifty have taken their turn. Now it was ours, so on a warm and sunny morning in June, on the lawn in front of the Arizona State Capitol, a couple thousand men, women, and children waited. Listening to the Mariachi music while watching the news media jockey for position as the dignitarys took their seats. A Wells Fargo stage coach pulled up on the street next to the big tent. A well dressed man and woman stepped out of the coach, a symbolic strong box used to carry money held between them, while photographers aimed and fired their cameras. Dean Martin AZ State Treasurer, and Pamela Conboy, state president of the Wells Fargo Bank, were delivering the official Arizona State Quarter. Arizona had arrived! Now it proudly displays on its Quarter, one of the natural wonders of the world, "The Grand Canyon" with a grand cactus, the Saguaro standing guard. This long awaited event, by not only collectors, was savored by all. A request for a photo brought a smile and The Governor to The Duuude’s side. This was indeed a fine day on the front lawn of the Capitol of the fine State of Arizona.
Greer Arizona
The first hot, HOT days of summer were here, but I was headed north, way north. I had planned this trip months ago. I planned a visit with a friend in Pinetop-Lakeside, Arizona the same weekend that the Butterfly Lodge Museum in Greer, was having its 7th Annual Butterfly Lodge BBQ on Saturday June 21st. I have been visiting the Butterfly Lodge Museum for the past few years, whenever I would come up to take a break from the Valley Heat and visit a long time friend, Cactus John.
Saturday morning broke sunny and warm but clouds were forming. It was the begining of the Monsoon season. I could hear some thunder in the distance. About 3pm Cactus and I headed for Greer. It stayed cloudy and breezy but not threatening. Its a 30 mile trip from the Honda Resort to Greer on state route 191. This is Elk country but we didn’t see any on this trip. But we did see some cattle grazing and a small group of Burros beside a water tank.
Arriving at the Butterfly Lodge we noticed others filtering in.We were about an hour early, the festivities were set to begin at 5pm. I looked up Karen Applewhite and asked how we could help out. There was a small bar set up, and a registration table, that also served as the Card Deck Raffle center exibiting the prizes.
The Butterfly Lodge Museum is dedicated to the great western writer James Willard Schultz. I would highly recommend to anyone that likes to read history of the early west, hunting, or just stories of the great outdoors, "My Life as an Indian", The story of a Red Woman and a White Man in the lodges of the Blackfeet. You won’t regret it and it may just bring you to visit the Butterfly Lodge in Greer Arizona. For more information go to, www.wmonline.com/butterflylodge.htm .
The evening passed easily with conversation among friends, as the soothing sounds of vocals and Guitar & Harp by Maya Larson and Dave Rofflader floated through the Pine trees. The dinner bell was rung and everyone lined up to be served by, Debbie, Shelly and Elena. Savory Chicken and Beef were followed by delicious Apple & Peach Cobbler. All washed down with coffee brewed by, the Duuude himself.
I think I made many new friends. I tried to get around to talk to as many people as I could.I thoroughly enjoy meeting people from all walks of life and listening to their experiences. Especially people that have been in Arizona a long time, like maybe they are 3rd or 4th generation. I always encourage young people to listen to their Grandparents and reach back into family history.
I would like to thank everyone in attendance for making the Arizona Duuude feel welcome. To Phil Larson for his interview telling about the Arizona Rangers. To Mark Mead for his interview about the Hawkins 50 cal., Flintlock & Cap and Ball.To his wife Carla Mead helping out and the donation of the beautiful Belt Buckle from Black Mountain Jewelry Co. To Karen Applewhite for her interview telling about The Butterfly Lodge and James Willard Schultz whose home it had been. A big thank you from the Arizona Duuude, and a promise to return for the 8th Annual Butterfly Lodge BBQ in June 2009. See prizes won in picture at right.
Ode to Sharlot Hall
Sharlot I’m sorry it took me so long to read your work. Now that I have finally read your biography, I regret never having met you. But you left us the very year I was born. A flaw of mine when choosing something to read is that I sometimes overlook female authors. I’m sure this has caused me to pass up some really good reads. I should know that its not good to judge a book by its cover. Margret Mitchell and "Gone With The Wind" , should have taught me that lesson years ago. >>>>Sharlot, how your poetry pulls me into the time and place from the first line. It reaches out to the human soul, and makes a familiar connection. A connection I should have made long ago. Yet lucky to have made at all.You do speak to us all, leaving us with a deep admiration for a life well fought and lived. Reaching deep for a strength to prevail and having enough left over to help others. Whether they deserved it or not.>>>>>Sharlot you kept in your mind the one thing most important to you. That one thing in each of our own lives that is the most important. Just like in the movie "City Slickers", when Jack Palances charactor says to Billy Crystals charactor, as he holds up his index finger and says, "The most important thing is to find that one thing". >>>>>Sharlot for you that one thing was the history of Arizona. You never forgot that one thing or strayed from the course. You left us more than a Museum, it is a monument to human inspiration. Your Museum stands not only to educate but to guide and inspire generations. They say that we should give something back when we leave. Well Sharlott, you did and this Arizonan for one thanks you.
The Arizona Duuude Cartoon Question - Look for the answer in article above -
Cartoon on the Cartoon Page http://www.wildwestgazette.com/azduuudec
Arizona Duuude A Dream
It was a hot and dark night, and I was late, I had to wait for some passengers from a connecting stage coach headed down to Phoenix. Transferring people and luggage in the dark. Talk about confusion. Most were in line for the outhouse, a stop I had to make too. Bodies squezzing by one another irritated and tired. Some things never change, will traveling ever get any easier? Having taken my turn and ready to go , I was desperately looking for the station master. Seeing him I hollered, "Where is my print out"? What?" My computor print out.How the hell do I know who I’ve got on board"? He just starred at me...... "What the hell are you talking about?.............." Then I woke up, what a dream. I don’t drive a stage coach, I drive a shuttle for Shuttle U. Maybe I’m traveling too much!
- Location:Black Canyon City AZ
Travels & Insight from the Arizona Duuude (May 2008 Wild West Gazette article)
Recently the Duuude has noticed a lot of activity on the north side of the cafe. Further investigation produced an eye opening sight, that looks like the birth of an Oasis in the desert. Green grass under shade trees, newly painted ramada seating area, with overhead fans and mist system, lit at night with coach lamps. Horseshoe pits surrounded by green grass ready to test your skill. Yet this is not the end of the landscaping being installed by Marlin Coffman. A volley ball court and two, yes 2 waterfalls are next to be installed. The bar and bandstand are structurally the same, but have been dramatically enhanced with a new coat of red paint. The dance floor awaits the caress of "happy feet". Come one, come all, come soon and check it out.
is turning into an oasis in the desert. Long used as a pit stop for travelers going north or south, Rock Springs Cafe is known for its hospitality, good food and famous pies. What’s yours? There’s also a farmers market nearby with produce and a selection of jams and honey.
Happy Arrivals & Sad Departures
The little girl clung to the woman’s knees, crying, don’t leave Auntie we love you. The lady slowly bent down and dried the little girls eyes, and said, "I’ll be back honey, I’m just going down to Phoenix. I’ll be back to visit, I promise." As I watched the family members hug and say their good-byes while I loaded their luggage, the scenes tugged at my heart, and I thought how this very humane occurrence has been repeated again and again. Happy arrivals and sad departures. As we roll east out of Prescott I always enjoy the panoramic views of Mingus Mountain and the snow capped two sisters, which is Flagstaff in winter. We pass Dewey, then Humbolt and head on to Mayer passing the now useless smoke stack of a long ago smelter standing guard just off the roadway. We cross Big Bug Creek again and again.
As we roll along I notice some of the passengers look happy, they’re probably taking a long awaited pleasure trip. Still others were leaving loved ones behind. One I spoke to is going to the Valley to attend a funeral, definitely a sad affair. How different could it have been one hundred and ten or one hundred and fifteen years ago to travel from Prescott to Phoenix. Well for one thing, it took a lot longer. Bumpy, dusty, noisy, hot in the summer, cold in the winter, well you get the idea.
So in a way, the Arizona Duuude can relate to a stagecoach driver from yesteryear. I, that is the Duuude, when not the Duuude, drives a shuttle from Prescott to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. So I have witnessed many happy arrivals and sad departures. No I have ever been held up by highway men, nor been attacked by renegade Indians. I’ve never ever tried to drive a team of horses.
But, there are a whole new set of modern day road hazards to stress out the shuttle driver, as anyone that drives up and down I-17 can attest to. Today’s route at times parallels the old stage road. There are places along I-17, coming down the hill into Black Canyon City where you can see the old road off to your right. The Stage Depot still survives in Black Canyon City. See their ad on page 7.
Banquet for a Gunfighter
I hadn’t been up Kingman way for long time, so when Sid Hagel, Publisher of this Wild West Gazette, presented the offer, I jumped at it. He said he was going up to cover the "Jim Martin Invitational Fast Draw Championships" a benefit event for Wes Flowers. Being held at the Arroyo Pistolero Ranch, near Kingman it was presented by www.gunfightergulch.com
Well, I didn’t realize what an enjoyable experience this would be for me. For a Dude, and I mean a Duuude like me, to be among these pros was great. I’ve done western, what they now call re-enacting, years ago, TV Commercials, you know small stuff. But a couple of these guys taught the famous ones how to look good with a six gun on the Big Screen.
The Saturday competition was great. This was because not only who was the fastest, but of the two men facing the targets, it was which one could draw and hit the target first? Now that’s more true to the real shoot out. This is called the Showdown Fast Draw system developed by Bob Crismon. He has developed several different gunfight situations that can be played out with his electronic target system. (See http://www.starcomputer-usa.com /)
Saturday night was the dinner and the awards. Forty friends and gunfighters passed by the buffet line and found a seat in the private dining room. When the meal and conversation swindled to sipping coffee and finishing desert, Greg Custodio stood up and got down to business. Awards were passed out among humor and serious oratory. A hand on the back always popped up and someone they called EB would question or insert something to the speech. What I witnessed on this evening, in a small dining room in a big truck stop near Kingman Arizona, I can hardly put into words. There was more love there for a man’s fellow man and the true meaning of being a friend than I’ve seen in many a year. I felt honored just to be present and witness this event. I don’t have to mention names, if you were there then you know what I mean. So you see although I went to a fast draw competition on a ranch near Kingman Arizona on a fine day in May, 2008, I am proud to say that I attended a "Banquet for a Gunfighter". God bless you Wes Flowers, Jim Martin, Jim Dunham and Greg Custodio for making it happen.
Upcoming events the Duuude will be appearing at. Annual Barbecue at
The Butterfly Lodge Museum, June 21, Greer, Az. 4th of July fireworks at Frontier Town Cave Creek. Rodeo Parade Prescott Sat. July 5th 9 a.m. Come out and see the Arizona Duuude!
The Oldest Rodeo
- The oldest Rodeo controversy is an annual topic of discussion every year about this time. Prescott or Payson, Payson or Prescott, but when I was in Fort Worth, Texas a few years back, they claimed they were the oldest Rodeo. I hear the word continue’s figures in there somewhere too. So I guess it depends on where you are and who you talk to. Bob Waldmire, Route 66 Celebrity- I found Bob standing next to his VW van and it took me back, back to the late 60’s. They both hadn’t changed, right out of a time machine, bumper stickers and all, they looked great. But wait back up. I was in Kingman Az. attending a western fast draw competition. I had stopped at the Mohave Museum on Route 66 to have a look around. While I was looking at a map of Arizona, the most interesting and informative and yet strangest map I have ever seen. A guy standing behind me said, "If you’d like to meet the guy that drew that map, he’s out in the parking lot under the big shade tree." I couldn’t pass up this opportunity. I had to meet the mind that created such a map. I wasn’t disappointed. What a nice visit we had. Bob gave me a copy of an article from the last issue of Route 66 Magazine. If you get a chance pick one up, its a very good read. The next time I get down to south eastern Arizona I will definitely plan a side trip to Portal. The results of that visit will appear here in The Wild West Gazette, Travels and Insights from the Arizona Duuude.
- Location:Black Canyon City Arizona
- Mood: always!
