October 17, 2025

Central Arizona Launches GRyT Movement for Community Growth

News Summary

Central Arizona has launched the GRyT initiative aimed at fostering regional unity and growth through collaboration among local organizations. Kicking off on October 21, 2025, at Espire Sports in Prescott, the program is designed to engage local residents and businesses in collective action for community development. The event will also honor Rowle P. Simmons for his public service contributions, along with updates on local events and a recent sales tax increase intended to fund local projects.

Central Arizona Launches GRyT Movement to Foster Regional Unity and Growth

Prescott, Arizona – Central Arizona has officially launched the GRyT initiative, an effort aimed at promoting regional unity and growth through collaboration among local organizations. The launch event is scheduled for Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at Espire Sports located at 3400 Gateway Blvd., Prescott, Arizona, 86303. The networking session will take place from 7:30 AM to 8:00 AM, followed by the main program from 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM. Attendance is free, but an RSVP is required, which can be completed through a dedicated link.

The GRyT initiative is a collaborative effort backed by the Central Arizona Partnership (CAP), the Prescott Valley Economic Development Foundation (PVEDF), and the Prescott Chamber Foundation. This program aims to usher in a new era in regional unity, innovation, growth, and action, encouraging local residents and businesses to partake in driving the community forward.

Honoring the Legacy of Rowle P. Simmons

During the launch event, attendees will also honor the legacy of Rowle P. Simmons, a former Mayor and Yavapai County Supervisor, who dedicated his life to public service and community initiatives. Simmons was well-regarded for his integrity and commitment to Prescott. The community is invited to participate in a special celebration honoring his contributions. Following the launch’s main program, a reception will take place at the Rowle P. Simmons Community Center, located at 1280 E. Rosser Street, Prescott, AZ.

In memory of Rowle P. Simmons, his family kindly requests that donations be made to the Yavapai County Humane Society in lieu of flowers. Contributions can be sent to 1625 Sundog Ranch Rd., Prescott, AZ 86301, with attention to Loree.

Community Events and Updates

In addition to the GRyT initiative, Prescott also has an upcoming concert set for September 5, featuring well-known artists Lorrie Morgan and Jamie O’Neal. The concert will begin at 7 PM at the Jim & Linda Lee Performing Arts Center. Tickets start at $54 and can be purchased through the Ticket Office by calling (928) 776-2000 or online at www.ycpac.com.

In recent developments relevant to Prescott’s economic landscape, voters approved Proposition 478 during the November 2024 election. This measure is set to raise the City’s sales tax by 0.95%, effective April 1, 2025, increasing the overall tax rate from 2.00% to 2.95%. This tax adjustment is expected to generate additional revenue for local projects and initiatives.

Residents and business owners looking for more information regarding the sales tax increase can reach out to the City of Prescott’s Transaction Privilege (Sales) Tax Assistance at 928-777-1268 or via email at [email protected] for inquiries and assistance regarding the changes.

The GRyT initiative is just one of several efforts aimed at enhancing community involvement and development in Prescott, showing promise for a more united and innovative future in Central Arizona.