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Meet your Neighbor

From Texas to Scottsdale, Bernert enjoys the outdoors

Posted 1/5/20

Bill Bernert moved to Scottsdale in 2012 to be closer to family and volunteers with the McDowell Sonoran Conservancy.

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Meet your Neighbor

From Texas to Scottsdale, Bernert enjoys the outdoors

Posted

Name: Bill Bernert

Where I live: Scottsdale Mountain

When & why I moved here: We moved here from the Texas hill country in 2012 to be closer to grandkids and other family members.

What I like most about living here: The easy access to outdoor activities, especially hiking trails.

Activities I enjoy: Hiking, fishing, and admiring the beauty of nature.

Clubs/organizations I’m involved in: The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy

Where I volunteer in the city and why it deserves support from others: The McDowell Sonoran Conservancy provides a unique desert experience in the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. The enlightened residents of Scottsdale had the forethought to protect the land. However, it takes an enormous amount of effort to maintain it, and to provide a rich experience to visitors.

My No. 1 suggestion to new residents looking for ways to get involved in their community: There are a wide range of programs to fit any schedule or interest in Scottsdale. It will probably be a bridge to meeting like-minded people and making new friends. The conservancy offers a variety of free activities including guided hike & bike rides, educational lectures and family events.

What is one thing would you like to see changed in Scottsdale? Oh, if only the summers were a little less intense.

My family: I have been married to my wife Elma for over 56 years. We have three sons, five grandchildren and one great grandchild.

What I do: Being retired, I am able to volunteer as a steward at the conservancy several days a week. I enjoy repairing trails, leading hikes, and helping visitors have a safe and memorable trip to the preserve.

People who are an inspiration to me: The many stewards who willingly step into leadership positions at the conservancy. Often working long hours just for the joy of giving.

My advice to today’s youth: Carpe diem may sound corny, but it’s eternal. The days pass quickly, be ambitious. Pick a path you think you would enjoy and then go after it with passion.