June 19, 2020
Children's Conservation Book: The Story of Camelback Mountain
By Julie A. Pace

In 1965, the late Senator Barry Goldwater led a citizen initiative to save Camelback Mountain. But still, after so many years, our iconic Paradise Valley Mountains are being threatened by development.

On behalf of the Paradise Valley Mountain Preserve Trust (PVMPT), a children's conservation book called "The Story of Camelback Mountain" is now available to read and enjoy with children and grandchildren. The illustrations are exquisite and bring the story to life. All proceeds from the sale of the book benefit the Trust to acquire, maintain, preserve and protect land in its natural state.
"The Story of Camelback Mountain" tells the untold story of Camelback Mountain, an iconic Arizona landmark. The legend stars a princess whose great grandfather gave her a baby camel which, with the princess's help, will be very special to the world. With its gentle reminder to honor nature, this tale charms toddlers to adults.
Written by Estelle Cohen and her “Ganni,” author Pam Hait, The Story of Camelback Mountain is brilliantly illustrated by well-known artist Sebastien Millon, who is also a Paradise Valley resident.

The launch of the book occurred at the Desert Botanical Gardens on February 17, 2020. Ken Schutz, Executive Director of the Desert Botanical Gardens introduced the book and and Paradise Valley Vice Mayor Julie Pace led the post-discussion with the children regarding the story.

For more information or to purchase the book, contact [email protected] or contact Julie Pace and someone will personally deliver the books you purchase to you. Enjoy a fun and positive story about the iconic mountain our Town celebrates. 
Community Spotlight: Inspiration Behind The Story
"Camelback Mountain was a huge part of my childhood, and when my grandma offered me the opportunity to write with her, it seemed perfect." - Estelle Miriam Cohen
From left to right: Author Estelle Cohen, Illustrator Sebastian Millon, Author and 48-year PV resident Pam Hait.
It’s a story that has been passed down from generation to generation. Long-term Paradise Valley residents Pam Hait and her husband Glen told the story of Camelback Mountain for years, starting with their children who grew up in Paradise Valley and continued the storytelling to their grandchildren.

Inspired by the story, Julie Pace and neighbors in Stone Canyon heard it and suggested the story should be made into a great children’s book.

Together, 15-yr-old Author Estelle Cohen, nationally recognized and local Illustrator Sebastien Millon, and Author and 48-year PV resident Pam Hait collaborated to create “The Story of Camelback Mountain.”
Recent News In Paradise Valley
Paradise Valley evaluates Experience Scottsdale effectiveness down to the last dollar


As a new contract between Experience Scottsdale and the Town of Paradise Valley is set to be inked later this month, new parameters and working plans have been set to allow the local municipality to have a seat at the table as future destination and marketing efforts are pursued.

Experience Scottsdale is doing a satisfactory job bringing tourism to the Town of Paradise Valley an outside audit report evaluating the destination marketing organization found.

During a Paradise Valley Town Council study session on June 11, independent destination marketing consultant, DMOproz, presented its findings on the efficacy of Experience Scottsdale.

Town of Paradise Valley Updates
Reducing Mail and Package Theft

The Town has experienced an increase in theft of mail and deliveries. Residents can reduce this problem by following these tips:

  • Promptly pick up your mail
  • Do not leave mail in your mailbox overnight
  • Consider using postal services such as Hold for Pickup or Signature Confirmation
  • If important mail is overdue, inquire with the sender about status.
  • Track packages being delivered through UPS or Federal Express through your phone or computer.

Another thing you can do is to sign up for  Informed Delivery  a free service from the U.S. Postal Service. This optional, no-cost notification service gives residential consumers the ability to digitally preview their letter-sized mail and manage their packages scheduled to arrive soon. The USPS digitally images the front of letter-sized mail that runs through automation equipment. You can view these images on your smart phone, tablet or computer after you have signed up.  

Please report mail and package theft to Paradise Valley Police Department at 480.948.7410.  Make sure your video surveillance is retained. Check your cameras for field of view, position of security cameras and video resolution. The police recommend keeping video for at least 14 days to allow time to recover footage that may be helpful.
Monsoons and FEMA Flood Insurance

Town residents can obtain FEMA flood insurance even though you do not reside in a high-risk flood zone. The Town of Paradise Valley is located in a National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) so generally every PV resident should be able to purchase a FEMA flood insurance policy. The Town recommends that you consider doing so.

Floods can happen anywhere. More than 20% of flood claims come from properties outside the high-risk flood zone. Our Town has very little stormwater drainage in place. We are a rural elegant Town that relies on the existing washes to carry rainwater through the Town.  

It is a good time of the year to ensure that your drains and washes on your property are unobstructed and ready to let the water flow properly. Check with your insurance company regarding adding FEMA flood insurance to your insurance package.
PVPD Monthly Report
It is highlighted by only one misdemeanor assault as the only crime against person for the month. In May, property crimes consisted of 18 thefts, 1 burglary and 1 auto theft. There were no arsons reported. Additionally, there were only 7 collisions Townwide during May, 44% of those collisions were on Lincoln or Tatum. Two of the seven (36%) were related to speed.  

Click here  or on the image to the left to view the entire report.
Post Office Temporary Operating Hours

The Post Office reopened on June 1st. Operating hours have temporarily changed to Monday through Thursday, 7:30 am to 4:00 pm. The Post Office will be closed Fridays.
Voter Registration or Early Voting Ballot Request

2020 is a big election year for Arizona and across the country! The primary election will fall on August 4 and the general election will be held on November 3 . You must register to vote by July 6 to vote in the primary election. Don't miss your chance to vote. CLICK HERE to register to vote today!

Maricopa County voters can request a one-time ballot to be sent by mail to a residence or mailing address on file, or to a temporary mailing address for the  August 4 Primary Election  and November 3 General Election.  CLICK HERE to request your ballot in the mail.
DEADLINE TO REGISTER TO VOTE : JULY 6, 2020
EARLY VOTING : JULY 8, 2020
ELECTION DAY : AUGUST 4, 2020
Julie Pace for Paradise Valley Town Council | 5501 E Solano Drive
Paradise Valley AZ 85253 | [email protected]
Paid for by Julie Pace for Paradise Valley Town Council.
Authorized by Julie Pace.