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Testing the Lyric Hearing Aid

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Even if you wear traditional hearing aids, you should try out this new technology on a free trial basis.

The Lyric is a hearing aid that is housed inside the ear canal for extended periods of time. No need to change a battery or put the hearing aid in a recharging device at night. All you need to do is go to your audiologist and ask to try a pair of them for free!

Discreet Amplification

The most amazing benefit of wearing the Lyric is that you are a “normal” person. You do not have to be careful with your hearing aids around the house so the dog or cat does not eat them when you take them off. You can remove your glasses without catching the hearing aid and having it fly across the room. You can remove your mask without worrying that your hearing aids will be lost. You can put on your motorcycle or bicycle helmet without fear of losing the hearing aid. You can even swim, as long as your head is not submerged (you must wear ear plugs to protect the Lyric from excessive water while lap swimming or kayaking and bathing). No one will politely remind you to put your hearing aids in every morning while you are simply trying to enjoy your coffee and newspaper. People enjoy the fact that they wake up hearing normally and are able to hear noises around the house at night, similar to their other family members.

Lyric Sound is Clear

The sound of speech is clear and distinct. You are able to understand your friends and family under most circumstances. Extremely loud environments will present a challenge, but my patients report that 95% of the time, they are very happy with the sound quality.

The Lyric Difference

The sound of these aids is different from other in-the-ear hearing aids because of the location in the ear canal. The Lyric sits deeper in the canal than any other hearing aid. The depth is one of the biggest secrets to the successful sound transmission. The canal wall has different composition as it extends to the ear drum. The Lyric sits a quarter of an inch from the eardrum in the boney portion of the canal. The composition of bone rather than cartilage and fat reduces the “echo” that many people hear with traditional hearing aids. The Lyric takes advantage of the outer ear, or pinna, in its ability to focus on the sound that the listener is facing. Finally, the power needs are much less because it is so close to the eardrum; thus, there is less distortion of sound.

The Lyric Sound is Adjustable

The Lyric comes with a wand that is designed to change the volume or even mute the sound completely. It has a sleep mode if you prefer to hear at your pre-hearing aid level. There are many options, allowing the sound to be modified by the person wearing Lyric.

Lyric for Tinnitus

Tinnitus is a noise that is heard, yet it is not generated by an external source. It can be a whistle, buzz, chirp or hissing sound. The Lyric is a great way to either reduce tinnitus or completely eliminate the sound. Studies even show that Lyric can offer relief faster than a traditional hearing aid. Many patients will be astounded that the minute the Lyric is placed into the canal the noise they hear is gone! Anyone who wants to find out if they can benefit from this device is welcome to try out a Lyric for free!

Removing the Lyric

The person using a Lyric is able to remove it at any time. A tool is provided that is placed in the ear canal and attaches to a loop on the outer edge of the device. However, the Lyric must be reinserted by the audiologist. I have had people attempt to replace their device, but by not using the specialized tool, the ear canal was scratched. The fit is comfortable only if it is placed in the canal at the proper depth and at the proper angle.

Replacing the Lyric

The Lyric battery will last for more than two months. Sometimes it lasts up to three months, but it is best to replace it every two months. The audiologist will remove the Lyric, clean the ear canal and place a new Lyric. Even if you wear traditional hearing aids, you should try out this new technology on a free trial basis. QCBN

By Karon Lynn, Au.D.

Trinity Hearing Center is located at 1330 N. Rim Dr., Suite B in Flagstaff. For more information, visit TrinityHearing.net.

Karon Lynn, Au.D., is a doctor of audiology with 30 years of experience working with hearing impaired individuals. She may be reached at 928-522-0500 or at audio@trinityhearing.net.

Local Marine Veteran, Horses with Heart Volunteer Wins Horse Show

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Dewey resident, devoted to horses and their use in therapy, wins horse competition.

It all started when she wanted to carry an American flag in Heroes on Horses, a world championship horse show that honors veterans. After a phone call to the National Snaffle Bit Association (NSBA) and Lynn Campbell, sponsors of the August event in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Kristie Vollrath was invited to enter in the Western Pleasure category at the horse show.

She accepted and started training in Cave Creek, with trainers Deanna and Jim Searls, on a champion horse owned by Susan Johns. Lilly, a Quarter Horse, proved a winner on Aug. 12, skillfully guiding Vollrath to a first-place finish in Western Pleasure, an event designed to highlight a more relaxed style of riding, featuring walking and gentle jogging.

“The horse is to appear to be a ‘pleasure’ to ride, smooth-moving and very comfortable; that’s the idea behind Western Pleasure,” Vollrath explained. “That’s what it’s supposed to be like, not to get sore or tired. It’s not a bumpy horse and it’s not a fast horse. The slower you go, the better it is.”

Walking in an arena, the rider walks, jogs and reverses on command using leg aids and reins, she added. The quarter horse was fully up to the task at hand. “Boy, she was something else,” Vollrath said of Lilly, whose registered name is KM Flat Out the Best. “As soon as she saw that arena, she said, ‘I got this.’ She’s a grand champion. She knew exactly what she was doing.”

Vollrath received a belt buckle, trophy and a jacket. She also came away with some wonderful memories from Heroes on Horses.

“It was so much fun,” she said. “It’s so touching, all those people carrying American flags, and they play that song, ‘Where Were You When the World Stopped Turning?’ That’s a tearjerker. They go all out to honor us veterans. I’m very proud to be a part of it.”

Vollrath, 70, is a veteran of the Marine Corps and served from 1971 to 1974, in the Carolinas and Washington, D.C., where she worked in data processing at the Library of Congress and in the POW/MIA section at Camp Henderson.  Her devotion to horses goes back to her childhood.

“When I was a kid, I had a horse,” she recalled. “When I was 16, I gave up horse riding.”

A native of Minnesota, where she worked in the U.S. Postal Service as a mail carrier and then a manager, Vollrath retired in 2009 and moved to Dewey to benefit from the better weather and to be near two aunts in Apache Junction.

After joining a bowling league, she was asked to bowl in a fundraiser for Horses with Heart, a ranch in Chino Valley that uses horses as a therapeutic tool to help special needs individuals, veterans and first responders experience the healing power of a horse to gain confidence, increase independence and improve social skills, with the support of caring and credentialed instructors and dedicated volunteers.

She was delighted to be in the company of horses again and for five years has volunteered with Horses with Heart, focusing on the veterans program.

“After I retired, I was looking for something to do,” she said. “I looked at the Humane Society, but I was afraid I’d bring every dog and cat home. I knew I wouldn’t bring a horse home.”

Horses used in the program are middle aged, she noted. “They are mature, from about 9 to 25 years old and older. We need horses that do what we do, which is therapy. We can’t have a young horse because they’re too spirited. We kind of get retired horses.”

Vollrath said horses are very good therapy animals. “Some people are so afraid of horses because they’re so big. But they give me a lot of confidence and companionship. They give me a lot of love. They never bite the kids or kick anyone. They’re just wonderful, wonderful animals.”

Participants at Horses with Heart generally do not know how to ride, but the horses, which have been around for years, do know how to ride, Vollrath noted. QCBN

By Betsey Bruner, QCBN

Courtesy Photo: Kristie Vollrath, a volunteer with Horses with Heart, took home first place in the Western Pleasure category of the Heroes on Horses world championship event. The 70-year-old Marine Corps veteran is considering participating in a Scottsdale competition in March. 

Considering a Pet During National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month

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Who knows, it could be the start of a fantastic “happily ever after” for everyone involved!

October is recognized as National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, though in our hearts, every month is a celebration of adopting shelter dogs.

Many of our furry friends end up with us, and at other humane societies, through no fault of their own. The top reasons people give for surrendering their pets are often “landlord troubles,” “financial difficulties” and “moving.” So, what does that mean for you? Well, it means we’ve got a bunch of amazing, fun-loving dogs here just waiting to find their forever homes and get a fresh start in life. There are also some pups with special needs, like needing to be the only fur baby or not being a fan of little ones running around. But they all deserve a second shot at a happy life!

When an animal arrives at YHS, they are scared and unsure of what happened and why they are here in this unfamiliar place. While it’s a heart-wrenching situation, the positive side is that once they’re here, we provide them with the best care. This includes comprehensive medical attention, food, shelter and an abundance of love. Most importantly, they find safety and security, far removed from the uncertainties of life on the streets.

As we begin the process of getting these adorable pets ready for adoption, our fantastic medical team performs thorough exams. If any treatments are needed, they’re taken care of right away. We also make sure they get their vaccinations and, if necessary, are spayed or neutered. Our Behavior Team steps in to see how these pups react to all sorts of things, like other dogs, people and even sharing toys. Some dogs might stay on with the Behavior Team for some extra TLC if we think it’s needed to find them their perfect forever home. And if we have any information from their previous owners, we mix that in with what we see here, so we can paint a clear picture of their personality. It’s all about helping these pups find the right match!

Let’s not forget, in a shelter environment, dogs might not be their usual selves. They’re dealing with all sorts of new things like strange noises, sights, smells and routines, and it can really affect how they act in their kennels. Some get shy or scared and hide in a corner, while others get super excited, jumping up and barking at the kennel door. That’s why it’s important not to judge a dog solely by their first impression in a shelter. And when you bring your new furry friend home, remember, it’s not always like a feel-good Hallmark movie where everything falls into place instantly with cheerful music playing in the background. Real life with pets can have its quirks and surprises!

We like to share the 3-3-3 rule with potential pet adopter – it’s a simple guideline that applies no matter where you get your new family member. Here’s the general rule: In the first 3 days, they’re often feeling overwhelmed, scared and a bit bewildered by their new surroundings. After 3 weeks, they start to settle in, get comfy, and find a groove. And after 3 months, they’re really starting to feel at home and forming that special bond with you.

Remember, it takes time for them to adjust to you, your kids, other pets and their new surroundings. All they need from you is a little patience. It’s hard to see a dog or cat who was so happy to go home with you, returned the next day because of some understandable first-day jitters, destructive behavior or the occasional potty mishap.

There’s a misconception that animals in shelters are “damaged goods,” but that’s not true at all. I’ve been lucky enough to work here for 4½ years, and I’ve met thousands of dogs that I’d have taken home in a heartbeat if I could. We’ve got some sweet and loving furballs right here at Yavapai Humane Society, just waiting to share their love with someone like you.

As we celebrate National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, if you’re thinking about adding a furry friend to your life, why not set up a date to meet these adorable pups? Who knows, it could be the start of a fantastic “happily ever after” for everyone involved! Give us a call at 928-445-2666 and let us help you start their new story. QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.

Fire Wise Festival Puts the Fun in Fire Safety

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In addition to fire safety tips from experts, the family-friendly event will have food, giveaways and music.

As a community leader in fire prevention services, we’re proud to be a part of the 2nd Annual Fire Wise Festival in downtown Prescott. Local fire safety organizations and businesses are coming together in downtown Prescott to celebrate the National Fire Prevention Week in a street festival outside Founding Fathers Collective at 281 N. Granite Street. The one-day event, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 7, will highlight local businesses that can help residents prepare for future fire risks and keep our communities safe from fire. Local fire agencies attending the event include Prescott Fire Department, Yavapai Firewise/PAWUIC, BLM Fire, Arizona Public Safety, LASER (Large Animal Shelters & Emergency Readiness) and All West Fire & Security, to name a few. Admission is free.

Our area is surrounded by national forests. We all need to be diligent and prepare for fires that can happen any time of the year, not just during fire season. Everyone who attends the Fire Wise Festival will come away with information that can help prevent fires and save lives.

“Last year was well attended and we really wanted to continue to support our local fire agencies, so we’re happy to bring this event back,” said Jesse Burke of Founding Fathers Collective. “It’ll be fun for the kids to enjoy a bouncy house and check out big red fire engines. Adults can enjoy our Fire Engine Brew.”

In addition to fire safety tips from experts, the family-friendly event will have food, giveaways and music.

The event is sponsored by Founding Fathers Collective, All West Fire & Security, Barrett Propane, Yavapai Fire Wise/PAWUIC, Signals AZ, 93.9FM the Mountain, Magic 99.1FM, Arizona Hope 103.9FM, Yavapai County Contractors Association, Quad Cities Business News and Trafficade Service Companies.

We hope to see you there! QCBN

By Jon and Jamie Aten

Jon and Jamie Aten are the owners of All West Fire & Security. All West Fire & Security, a family-owned business, has been keeping Arizonans safe in Prescott for nearly 30 years. All West Fire & Security are experts in smart home automation, state-of-the-art fire suppression systems, inspections, sprinklers, fire alarms, fire extinguishers, monitoring, intrusion alarms, security cameras, badge access systems, backflow certifications and more.

Carmen Frederic Receives ATHENA Leadership Award

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ATHENA symbolizes strength, perseverance, success for Quad Cities women.

An invisible, yet powerful, thread of overcoming adversity to achieve long-held dreams wove its way through the audience of more than 100 attendees during the 4th Annual Quad Cities Leadership Awards as women came together to honor and celebrate each other Sunday, Sept. 24, at Starting Point in the Prescott Gateway Mall.

As Yavapai College President Dr. Lisa Rhine and Prescott College President Dr. Barbara Morris shared deeply personal stories of their own challenges, women could empathize with their struggles, some could see themselves in their stories, and many fought to hold back tears.

Carmen Fredric Shelters Those in Need

With a standing ovation and roar of applause, Prescott Area Shelter Services (PASS) Executive Director Carmen Frederic was honored with the 2023 ATHENA Leadership Award. As she accepted the prestigious award, she didn’t share her story, but later reflected on how alcoholism and homelessness in her family motivated her to rise above her circumstances and then to commit herself to a career of supporting and encouraging other women.

“The Athena award is such a high honor and something I will always remember and treasure for the rest of my life!” she said in a Quad Cities Business News interview. “The award itself is beautiful and placed currently at the shelter office for all to see and enjoy. It will be a talking piece and maybe an inspiration to all of the women in shelter to aspire to someday, a pathway to be taken to be compassionate and build up other women as a goal in their life.”

Frederic left home for college after graduating from high school. “I helped to open the first teen pregnancy shelter in my hometown and worked for the education service district helping struggling families keep their kids in school. My biological father was a severe alcoholic and experienced homelessness himself. I often ran into him in my hometown when I would be working with my own clients.”

Today, she is credited with leading the evolution of PASS from a winter shelter in a church basement to a 26-bed facility at its own location, plus the creation of two transitional houses. The organization now serves about 180 women and children a year.

“All of these challenges in life have made me a better person and given me the insight and empathy in my work at the shelter,” she said.

Tracy Rogers Helps Students Stay in School

Cheered on by friends and associates from Yavapai College, YC Radiology Program Director Tracy Rogers was in disbelief as her name was called to join the stage to receive the ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award.

“I was in total shock,” she said of the moment.

Rogers told QCBN how she burst into tears hearing about Dr. Rhine’s difficult childhood. “Her story is very similar to my upbringing. So many people have faced things you’d never expect. She is such an inspiration. I look at her and think, ‘That could be my future!’”

Rogers recalls a time when she could not imagine herself as a successful professional. “Growing up in a poor home, we didn’t know if we were going to have Christmas, and work was a priority to help provide for the household, not school. But I realized school is what makes a better life possible. I just kept pursuing education.”

Through a difficult divorce three years ago, she felt her world crumbling around her. As a single mom, the thought of balancing all of life’s challenges felt impossible. “Women especially find themselves in this situation, but I had an amazing career as an X-ray tech. I am so thankful to have this career. I always wanted to be an instructor for the [YC radiology] program. Before I knew it, I became the program director!”

As with many women, Rogers says she struggles with feeling like an imposter in her work. “Every day I feel like I’ve got to prove my worthiness. I think, ‘Is this real? Am I really doing this? Am I working hard enough?’”

At YC, her colleagues call her a transformational and servant leader. She established an emergency fund to support students struggling with unexpected expenses and recently received the Great Ideas for Teaching (GIFT) Fellowship Award for Teaching Excellence.

“This award reminds me that I have something to continue to be worthy of,” she said. “I just feel really empowered now to keep moving forward and inspired to help other women.”

Prescott Woman Showcases Women

As with the ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award, QCBN added another award this year. Breeanya Hinkel accepted the ATHENA Organizational Leadership Award for her business, Prescott Woman Magazine.

“I’m honored and surprised to be the recipient of the first ATHENA Organizational Leadership Award,” said Hinkel. “Typically, we love to be the ones honoring other women and it is such a privilege to have stood on the stage and be recognized along with other outstanding organizations.”

Hinkel and Prescott Woman Magazine worked with Quad Cites Business News to bring the ATHENA Leadership Awards to the region in 2020. “I’m thrilled that Quad Cities Business News has kept the tradition of ATHENA going and for their commitment to honor women throughout the area.”

ATHENA Wisdom

Keynote speaker Julie Jones motivated the attendees to “Stop Waiting, Start Living,” which is also the name of one of her books. The former police officer and SWAT team member reminded the audience that tomorrow is not guaranteed. She urged women to be authentic and live the lives they were born to live.

ATHENA Leadership Program Founder Martha Mayhood Mertz delivered a recorded message congratulating the nominees. ATHENA International President and CEO Traci Costa reminded audience members that there is still work to do to support women in leadership. QCBN

By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN

Hear more from Julie Jones and Martha Mayhood Mertz on Zonie Living at StarWorldwideNetworks.com.

Embracing Fall Cleaning: Prepping Homes and Minds for the Chilly Months

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Cleaning and decluttering during fall, hence, can dramatically cut down on indoor pollutants, ensuring the air we breathe during the chilly months is as pure as it can be.

As the hues of autumn paint our surroundings and a cool whisper signals the shift in seasons, there’s a tradition, not as widely known as its spring counterpart, but equally vital: fall cleaning. Beyond the anticipation of pumpkin-flavored delights and warm scarves, giving our homes a thorough autumnal cleanse can make the impending months of indoor living more comfortable and wholesome.

The importance of ensuring a clean space as fall begins cannot be brushed under the carpet. According to a report by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Americans, on average, spend a staggering 90% of their time indoors. As the mercury drops, this number may further inch upwards. Cleaning and decluttering during fall, hence, can dramatically cut down on indoor pollutants, ensuring the air we breathe during the chilly months is as pure as it can be. This is essential, as indoor air, surprisingly, can have pollutant levels 2 to 5 times higher than the air outside.

But the benefits are not just about physical health; they extend to our mental well-being, too. A study in the “Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin” underscored the relationship between our living environment and our mental state. Participants who described their homes as “cluttered” or filled with “unfinished projects” showed signs of elevated stress and fatigue. Conversely, those with homes they considered “restful” or “restorative” exhibited better mood and reduced stress.

In wrapping up, as we gear up for the cozier seasons, let’s remember that fall cleaning is more than an optional task. It’s an opportunity. An opportunity to refresh our living spaces, to safeguard our health, and to set the stage for a serene, rejuvenating winter. With the falling leaves outside, let’s ensure the falling dust inside is swept away, making way for a season of warmth, both literally and metaphorically. QCBN

By Lucy Leyva

Lucy Leyva is the owner of Prescott Maid to Order.

Thanking the Business Community During Breast Cancer Awareness Month

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In 2022, these organizations raised nearly $220,000 to support the Baskin Breast Care Center.

Each October, National Breast Cancer Awareness Month brings together our business community in a way that’s both gratifying and humbling to me.

Quad Cities businesses of all kinds – a custom car builder, dance and fitness studio, propane supplier and restaurants, to name just a few – host a variety of unique events that share a common goal. They are all dedicated to helping family members, friends, neighbors and co-workers who are facing breast cancer by supporting the Baskin Breast Care Center at Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center (YRMC).

In 2022, these organizations raised nearly $220,000 to support the Baskin Breast Care Center. Those funds support breast health education in the community, help ensure the center’s clinical team has the latest technology, and provide professional staff education.

Gifts from the business community also assist financially vulnerable families during breast cancer treatment. They believe, as we do, that no one should have to choose between purchasing life-saving medication and buying groceries for their family. These donations provide breast cancer patients essential support – medication, grocery vouchers, transportation to treatment and more.

Additionally, these businesses have engaged other local companies and individuals by seeking sponsorships for their philanthropic activities and recruiting volunteers to give their time. They have done more to create a network of caring around the Baskin Breast Care Center than our organization could have done on its own.

Our Baskin Breast Care Center team is inspired by the support they receive from area businesses, organizations and individuals. In fact, I hope you are proud to learn that the Baskin Breast Care Center is Northern Arizona’s only Breast Imaging Center of Excellence. This accreditation, which comes from the prestigious American College of Radiology, signifies that the Baskin Breast Care Center has achieved the highest practice standards possible. That’s quite an impressive accomplishment.

I will end this column as I began it, by expressing my sincerest gratitude to all of the businesses as well as non-profit organizations, community-service agencies and individuals for their support of the Baskin Breast Care Center in October and year-round. Your engagement and dedication enable our team to offer exceptional care in our community and throughout Northern Arizona. QCBN

By Anthony Torres

Anthony Torres, M.D., FACP is president and CEO of Dignity Health Yavapai Regional Medical Center.

Yavapai College Leaps into Virtual Reality, the Future of Education

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I have a strong belief that virtual and augmented reality is going to change almost every industry, including education.

Yavapai College took a giant leap into next-generation learning earlier this month, with its first class taught in a virtual reality space.

Dr. Brandelyn Andres’s ART 201 students journeyed to a museum to analyze the compositional details within Renaissance and modern artworks. They discussed implied lines and biomorphic shapes long enough to make you forget that the museum was digital; the students were still in the classroom; and the entire lesson was conducted on their headsets and in their minds.

“So much of the study of art is interaction,” Dr. Andres said. “We lose so much when we project a slide onto a screen or look in a book. If you can move around it, you can understand the scale.” So, she created a digital gallery on the web. Her students, in virtual reality headsets, entered the gallery through avatars and then identified and discussed the basic design elements of each painting.

The lesson is part of a broad initiative Yavapai College introduced last spring when YC received a grant from Meta to develop Virtual Reality classes. Working with digital education provider VictoryXR, the college is honing an immersive virtual platform where students and teachers use synchronized headsets to learn in digitized environments.

I have a strong belief that virtual and augmented reality is going to change almost every industry, including education. YC plans to be on the cutting edge of that change.

It is an incredible way to learn to interact with material, your classmates and instructors. The technology allows students to learn things they could not in a traditional classroom. Things that are dangerous, like electrical instrumentation; impossible, like magnifying the brush strokes in a painting to analyze the artists’ techniques; counter-productive, like having to set up and use the multitude of tools needed to perform health-related training; or expensive, like the amount of material it takes to practice and master welding. Virtual reality allows us to provide high-quality training in areas while eliminating barriers.

Yavapai College will be launching other VR and AI-assisted learning opportunities, in fields ranging from health care to the skilled trades, across its six campuses and learning centers this fall. QCBN

By Lisa B. Rhine

Lisa B. Rhine, Ph.D., is the president of Yavapai College.

*Pending Higher Learning Commission Approval. This degree is not official and is not enrolling at this time.

In Feb. 2019, Dr. Lisa B. Rhine became the 10th president of Yavapai College, bringing to the institution more than 30 years of leadership experience across a number of leading colleges and universities in Ohio, Kentucky and Virginia. Dr. Rhine assumed this role with a commitment to advance the mission of the college while ensuring access and support to those for whom opportunities may have been historically limited or denied.

Yavapai College offers more than 100 degrees and certificates, student and community services, and cultural events and activities at six locations throughout Yavapai County, including campuses in Prescott and Clarkdale, and centers in Prescott Valley, Chino Valley, Sedona and the Prescott Airport.

Real Estate as an Economic Indicator

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In our local Quad Cities area, we’ve been fortunate to experience a resilient and diverse housing market.

For many, owning a home is the epitome of the American Dream. It represents a sense of stability, provides a place to raise a family, and is an investment in one’s future. Homeownership can offer the potential for wealth accumulation through property appreciation and the opportunity to build equity over time.

This quintessential dream does not stop there. It is deeply connected to economic security and, in fact, real estate is often cited as a key economic indicator. The housing market’s performance reflects broader economic trends such as consumer confidence, interest rates and employment levels. When the real estate market thrives, other industries follow, making it a stabilizing force in the economy. Unlike other sectors that are more susceptible to cyclical fluctuations, real estate often maintains its value over time. During economic downturns, property values may dip but generally recover in the long run, providing a cushion against severe economic shocks.

According to an economic impact report released this year by the National Association of REALTORS (NAR), in Arizona, a single home sale in 2022 had a total economic impact of $143,400. This means real estate related industries as well as the expenditures that result from a single home sale, including aspects like home construction costs, real estate brokerage, mortgage lending and title insurance, all generated on average over $140,000 each time a home sold. Not only that, but the income generated by the real estate industry itself amounted to $40,713, constituting 28.4% of the total impact to the state’s economy. And overall, real estate accounted for a remarkable $91.9 billion, or 20% of the gross state product, in 2022.

In our local Quad Cities area, we’ve been fortunate to experience a resilient and diverse housing market. Home sales have consistently maintained their year-over-year stability, reflecting similar steadiness in other aspects of our economy such as employment and income levels. For example, as of July, Yavapai County boasted an unemployment rate of just 4.3%.

Earlier this year, NAR unveiled additional compelling data in its “Wealth Gains by Income and Racial/Ethnic Group” report showcasing the impressive wealth accumulation of homeowners in Prescott over the past decade. Specifically, local homeowners saw their home values appreciate by more than $200,000, surpassing the national average in this category by a significant $60,000 margin. This data emphasized the invaluable role that REALTORS play in facilitating home transactions that not only fulfill housing needs, but also contribute significantly to the creation of generational wealth for their clients.

While homeownership promotes personal wealth development, a thriving real estate market also creates demand for improved infrastructure within our local municipalities. The growth in residential and commercial properties requires investments in roads, utilities and public services. In turn, this need for development creates jobs and enhances the overall quality of life, making regions more attractive for residents and businesses.

We’ve witnessed firsthand the impact of these improvements within our own community, particularly when we see such strides as the improvements to Highway 69 in Prescott and Glassford Hill in Prescott Valley. These infrastructure developments make our beautiful community even more appealing to prospective residents while ensuring the safety and improved quality of life of those currently living here. Moreover, there are ongoing projects aimed at further enhancing our infrastructure. The City of Prescott recently announced the State Route 89 (SR89) Roadway and Infrastructure Improvements Project, which encompasses the construction of sewer infrastructure improvements along SR89 spanning from the Phippen Roundabout to the Willow Lake Road Roundabout, with the potential of additional roadway improvements. Such improvements are intricately linked with the real estate market as infrastructure development and real estate are mutually beneficial to one another.

The importance of real estate in the economy cannot be emphasized enough. It offers individuals a pathway to wealth accumulation while catalyzing improvements in our communities. A consistent real estate market not only signifies a stable economy but actively fuels its long-term prosperity. As we are well aware, the Quad Cities area is an exceptional place to call home, and by engaging in the housing market, we not only secure a place to live but also contribute positively to our local economy. QCBN

By Suzanne Westrum

Suzanne Westrum is the CEO of Prescott Area Association of REALTORS.

The Healing Power of Forest Bathing: A Dive into Nature’s Sanctuary

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You might be surprised by the profound transformation it brings to your life.

In today’s fast-paced world, where technology often keeps us tethered to screens and the demands of modern life constantly pull us in various directions, it’s essential to find moments of respite and rejuvenation. One such sanctuary of serenity and healing lies right outside our doorstep: the forest. Forest bathing, also known as shinrin-yoku in Japan, is a practice that has gained global recognition for its profound physical and mental health benefits. As we enter into the fall in the Quad Cities area, let’s explore what forest bathing is and delve into the remarkable benefits it offers.

What is Forest Bathing?

Forest bathing is not about taking a traditional bath in the woods; rather, it is an immersive experience that involves slowing down and fully engaging with the natural environment. Originating in Japan in the 1980s, the term “shinrin-yoku” translates to “forest bathing” and emphasizes the act of being present in the forest. It’s a mindful practice that encourages individuals to use all their senses to connect with nature.

Forest Bathing Benefits

Stress Reduction: One of the most significant benefits of forest bathing is its ability to reduce stress. Spending time in a natural forest setting has been shown to lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. The tranquility and beauty of the forest provide a perfect escape from the pressures of everyday life.

Improved Mood: Forest bathing has a positive impact on mental health. The serene surroundings, soothing sounds of nature, and the scent of trees and plants can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Many individuals report feeling happier and more relaxed after a forest bath.

Enhanced Immune Function: Nature has a remarkable way of boosting our immune system. Studies have found that forest bathing can increase the production of natural killer cells, which are essential for fighting off infections and cancer.

Increased Creativity: Nature has an uncanny ability to stimulate creativity. Forest bathing can lead to improved problem-solving skills and enhanced creativity by allowing the mind to wander freely and explore new ideas.

Better Sleep: Exposure to natural light and fresh air during a forest bath can regulate circadian rhythms, making it easier to fall asleep and achieve a deeper, more restful slumber. This, in turn, contributes to overall well-being.

Increased Energy Levels: Spending time in nature can boost energy levels and combat feelings of fatigue. The combination of physical activity, clean air, and the calming environment can leave you feeling more revitalized.

Connection with Nature: In our increasingly busy world, it’s easy to become disconnected from the natural world. Forest bathing helps rekindle our connection with nature, fostering a greater appreciation for the environment and a desire to protect it.

Mindfulness and Presence: Forest bathing is a form of mindfulness practice that encourages you to be fully present in the moment. By engaging all your senses and leaving distractions behind, you can cultivate a profound sense of inner peace and awareness.

Physical Health Benefits: Forest bathing is not just about mental well-being. It also has physical health benefits, including reduced blood pressure, improved cardiovascular health, and lower levels of inflammation.

Social Connection: Forest bathing can be a group activity, allowing people to connect with friends and family in a natural setting. Sharing the experience can deepen bonds and create lasting memories.

How to Practice Forest Bathing

Practicing forest bathing is simple and accessible to everyone, especially with the forest right outside our door:

  • Choose a natural setting: Find a nearby forest, park or nature reserve. It doesn’t need to be a vast wilderness; even a small green space can work wonders.
  • Disconnect from technology: Leave your phone and other electronic devices behind or switch them to airplane mode to eliminate distractions.
  • Engage your senses: As you walk through the forest, take the time to see, hear, smell, touch and even taste the natural elements around you. Observe the colors of the leaves, listen to the rustling of the trees, breathe in the scent of the earth, feel the texture of the bark, and listen to the running water along your hike.
  • Move mindfully: Walk slowly and deliberately, paying attention to each step and the sensations in your body. You don’t need to have a specific destination; the journey is the focus.
  • Pause and reflect: Find a spot to sit or stand still. Close your eyes if you wish and let the sounds and sensations of the forest wash over you. Practice deep breathing and be present in the moment.
  • Stay as long as you like: There’s no set time for a forest bath; it can be as short as 20 minutes or several hours. Allow yourself to stay as long as you feel comfortable and connected to nature.

In conclusion, forest bathing offers a combination of physical, mental and emotional benefits that can significantly enhance our well-being. It’s a practice that reminds us of our intrinsic connection to nature and the healing power it holds. So, the next time you are feeling overwhelmed or in need of rejuvenation, consider taking a forest bath. You might be surprised by the profound transformation it brings to your life. QCBN

By Deanna Eder

Deanna Eder is the director of marketing at Polara Health.