What's Up Yuma?

Cris Drewek, is a creative and performer whose journey to Yuma began through community and collaboration. Since arriving, he’s become deeply involved with Yuma Community Theater, not only acting in multiple productions but also helping build sets behind the scenes. His work with YCT reflects a hands-on commitment to storytelling, craftsmanship and strengthening local arts through true community involvement. Today’s conversation dives into purpose, creative work that matters and why building — whether with metal or on a stage — can change lives and communities. Thank You toTaco Lab, who surprised us with a snack.

Shanen Aranmór is an educator, Certified Welding Inspector and national presenter who took an unconventional path into the skilled trades after leaving a career in academia. She’s the founder of Weld Like A Girl, where she works with people of all ages through welding education, community projects and certification services. Today, her work also includes Welder Corps, a job-readiness program focused on veterans and their families while addressing the skilled trades gap. She also hosts , The Money Machine, a program about trades.

Joel Prickett is the head softball coach for the Arizona Western College Matadors and is entering his second year leading the program. After being hired in May of 2024 with just six players signed, Coach Prickett quickly built a roster that went on to win the Region 1 Championship and earn a trip to the NJCAA National Tournament. With more than 26 years of collegiate coaching experience and over 760 career wins, Prickett brings a proven track record of winning, player development, and graduating student-athletes while building championship culture wherever he goes. The AWC Softball schedule can be found here.

Jeff Byrd is a longtime Yuma community leader who’s worn a lot of hats over the years, from financial services to nonprofit board service. Jeff recently joined the Avenir Financial team. He’s been deeply involved in causes that matter locally, including food insecurity and community support, and today he’s back on the show to talk about something new he’s been working on. This conversation gives Jeff space to share what sparked it, why it matters, and how it connects back to Yuma. Operation: Stop Scams will be presented on Tuesday, February 3rd at the Yuma Main Library.

Yuma native John Durazo is a Lead Wealth Advisor at Yuma & Imperial Valley Wealth Management. Initially joining the company in 2018 as an intern, John is passionate about helping people understand money in a way that actually makes sense, especially when it comes to inflation, saving strategies, and building long-term financial independence. Outside of work, John stays involved in the community through nonprofit boards like United Way of Yuma, serves at Church for the City on the production team, and he’s heading into a big season of life with his wedding coming up in February.

Amy Ballard is the talented photographer behind Amy Ballard Photography and she’s built a style that’s all about real life storytelling. Born and raised in Seattle, Amy’s journey brought her family from years overseas to Yuma in 2021 and along the way she’s kept a camera in her hands since she was 7 years old. She photographs families, weddings, and military events with a journalistic eye, capturing the kind of moments that don’t feel posed… they feel like memories.

Robert and Adriana Corona talk to us about Shalom Ink, their a faith-based apparel and jewelry brand built on prayer, purpose, and a mission to point hearts back to Jesus. Robert and Adriana share how Shalom Ink was born during Adriana’s cancer battle, how they’ve grown from a local brand into something reaching people nationwide, and why every release is created with intention, faith, and a message of peace.

Jonny Porter, host of What's Up Yuma? Radio, is interviewed by his co-host Carmen Marquez.

Erica Rivera is the powerhouse owner of Revolv Real Estate and a Yuma native who’s built a reputation across Arizona for elite negotiation, sharp marketing, and results that speak for themselves. With nearly a decade of experience, Erica has helped clients buy, sell, and invest with confidence while creating opportunities that lead to long-term wealth. She’s known for her white-glove approach, her deep knowledge of the market, and the way she advocates for her clients like it’s personal — because to her, it is.

Scott Gross is the Sports Information Director for Arizona Western College and the voice behind Matador Athletics coverage, play-by-play, and storytelling. After nearly 30 years in broadcast journalism and several years as a familiar face in local TV sports here in Yuma, Scott stepped into a major role at AWC helping promote Matador athletics through game coverage, stats, schedules, and community partnerships. Today we’re catching up on what he’s been up to since taking the job, what’s happening right now in Matador sports, and we’re also talking about the Mascot Challenge and Play 4 Kay campaign raising money for breast cancer awareness.