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Music is the Gift that Nourishes the Soul

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“We hope our presentation provides our listeners with an eclectic sonic tapestry that not only delights the ear but also warms the heart,” said soprano Emily Spencer.

As the holidays arrive with their preparations and gatherings, a way to gift yourself and your loved ones a joyful holiday memory is through music, and this season the Arizona Philharmonic brings an especially beautiful and heartwarming program: We Wish You Christmas, taking place in the intimate and acoustically exquisite Ruth Street Theater on the Prescott High School grounds at 3 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 17.

 The Three Sopranos

This carefully curated holiday concert will deliver the highest quality of performance and the most engaging experience for music lovers of all backgrounds. Three esteemed sopranos, Emily Spencer (program designer and Prescott resident), Sarah Smith and Claire Penneau are accompanied by Arizona Philharmonic principal musicians on flute, violin, cello, French horn, trumpet and timpani, and beloved Steinway artist and Prescott local James D’León.

Custom arranged by Prescott-born composer Mathew Lanning, the program celebrates a variety of Christmas melodies in new settings. “In making our selections, we strove for beloved and familiar classics, as well as lesser known but beautiful works we knew our audience would love. We hope our presentation provides our listeners with an eclectic sonic tapestry that not only delights the ear but also warms the heart,” said soprano Emily Spencer.

 World-Renowned Pianist Anton Nel

A special treat at 3 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 7 will be a performance by world-renowned pianist Anton Nel. Nel, a major-label musician, will join Maestro Peter Bay and Arizona Philharmonic in concert at the Ruth Street Theater.

 Following an auspicious debut at the age of 12 with Beethoven’s C Major Concerto after only two years of study, the Johannesburg native captured first prizes in all the major South African competitions while still in his teens and became a well-known radio and television personality. He has performed and won major awards worldwide ever since.

The performance includes Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 9 in E-flat Major, K. 271, which is considered to be one of the first masterpieces of the classical style. AZ Phil also presents Einojuhani Rautavaara’s Divertimento for String Orchestra, and Gershwin’s gentle Lullaby, which was a favorite of Gershwin’s social circle and was only performed at private parties during Gershwin’s lifetime. Closing out the performance is Haydn’s Symphony No. 45 in F-sharp Minor, best known as the “Farewell” Symphony. This will be Anton Nel’s first appearance in Prescott joining Arizona Philharmonic.

 Your Gift to Your Community

If you value the quality and diversity of musical programming brought to the community of Prescott by Arizona Philharmonic, please make an end of year contribution. Your support gives the youth of our community their first exposure to the joy a professional orchestra can inspire, often taking them places they never dreamed of – such as the recent musical compositions by Lincoln Elementary second graders, or the experience of professional stage management undertaken by The Launch Pad and PUSD teens. Arizona Philharmonic is a 501(c)3 non-profit, rated GuideStar Platinum. Visit AZPhil.org/donate to make your contribution to the musical future of the Prescott community today. QCBN

 By Cynthia Jones

Cynthia Jones is the marketing manager for Arizona Philharmonic. She can be reached at 928-273-0513. For more information, visit azphil.org.

Photo courtesy of Lasting Images Photography: Soprano Emily Spencer curated and performs in We Wish You Christmas, presented by Arizona Philharmonic, Sunday, Dec. 17, at the Ruth Street Theater. 

Distinguished Civil Air Patrol Service Earns YC’s Jason Ebersole Commendations

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“It’s time for us to grow the next generations of leaders and they don’t necessarily have to be military leaders.”

Nothing says “we appreciate you” like a stack of awards, certificates and letters of commendation.

The Civil Air Patrol (CAP) has sent that message loud and clear to Yavapai College Health Science Associate Dean Jason Ebersole, a U.S. Air Force veteran who gives his free time, emergency medical skills and military experience to the CAP, a non-profit auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force.

On paper, in frames and in engraved plaques, CAP awards compete for space with four computer monitors and multiple college-degrees in his small office on the YC Prescott Campus. The declarations of appreciation and commendations have Jason looking back with pride on his distinguished CAP service and contemplating what’s next for him in the organization that carries out search and rescue operations and provides aviation, leadership and STEM (Science, Technology, Math and Engineering) training to 12- to 21-year-old cadets.

Having started his CAP journey as a parent advisor when his son, Austin, decided to add an Air Force component to his Junior Reserve Officer Training at Bradshaw Mountain High School, Jason is now in his second year as the deputy commander of the Prescott Composite Squadron 206 of the Arizona Wing of the CAP. “I was just going to hang out with my son, but they had other plans,” Ebersole said of CAP leadership.

The awards have piled up as Jason has risen through the ranks, completed professional development steps and accepted more responsibility for the squadron and its cadets. Added to the awards stack most recently were a Deputy Commander of the Year Award and a Commander’s Commendation for Excellence while serving as the chief training officer for the CAP Summer Encampment.

The awards were presented in surprise fashion during an all-staff and cadet meeting in early September. Jason was expecting to promote cadets at the meeting, but realized something was up when the Vice Commander of the Arizona Wing arrived. “I was there to present awards and promotions for the cadets. I was dressed up (in uniform) to have them take pictures with me, not for me to get awards,” he said.

Jason doesn’t regret getting more involved in the CAP over time. “It’s huge for our community to have a program that shows young people that they can be more than they ever thought – that instills in them the values of integrity, service above self, excellence in all you do and respect,” Jason said. “It’s time for us to grow the next generations of leaders and they don’t necessarily have to be military leaders.”

A strong sense of patriotism and the desire to serve his country steered Jason into the Air Force after high school and some college in California. “I also saw that the military would provide me with valuable training and education opportunities that ultimately lead to valuable skills and qualifications that I use to this day,” he said.

Including three years with the CAP, Jason will notch 30 years of Air Force service in 2024. His active-duty and Air Force Reserves experience includes work in operations management, logistics and an assignment with a special operations command. Serving both in Special Operations Command and the Air Education and Training Command gives him a unique perspective on the military tenet of “play how you practice,” he said.

“If you want to perform strongly in any area from sports, to military, to health care, to business, you can’t slack off in your practice, because what you do most of the time is what you get used to doing.”

Jason thought his military career was winding down when his son suggested they join the CAP together. “He said, ‘Dad, this is something you and I could do together.’”

Jason obliged his son despite a premonition that, because of his previous Air Force experience, he wouldn’t remain a parent advisor for long. “I knew the minute they saw my name come across their desks, I’m going to get a phone call.” The phone call came and with it the statement, “You know we need a deputy commander there.”

Jason’s wife, Rho, a YC Nursing alumna, joined her husband and son in the CAP, becoming the “squadron mom” and sponsor member.

At the same time that he was making a name for himself in the CAP, Jason was transitioning into leadership roles at YC. After teaching EMS, Allied Health and science for nearly 15 years, and serving on the faculty senate and other student-success oriented college committees, Jason was promoted to EMS director last March. Five months later, he was named associate dean of Health Sciences.

Jason attributes his success at YC to amazing mentors and to YC Health Sciences Associate Vice-President Dr. Marylou Mercado, and the fact that teaching has been a mainstay in his life.

“I’ve always taught. I taught in the military. I taught in youth groups and was a youth pastor before I came here (to YC). It’s a natural thing for me to teach,” he said, noting that he’s still in the classroom teaching anatomy and physiology to paramedic students.

A YC alumnus, Jason holds a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration and a master’s degree in molecular medicine and biomedical science.

What’s on the horizon for Jason? Perhaps a promotion from captain to major in the CAP and continuing in a command position. He also plans to continue doctoral studies in the health sciences.

Just as it did at the beginning, Jason’s attachment to the CAP hinges on his son. “If [Austin] continues on [after graduating from BMHS this spring], it could be another four years,” he said. “There’s an outside chance I could make it all the way to lieutenant colonel. Maybe we have some time to contemplate that.” QCBN

By Lisa B. Rhine

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

Yavapai College operates six campuses and centers throughout Yavapai County and offers over 100 degrees and certificates, student and community services, and cultural events and activities. To learn more about YC, visit www.yc.edu.

The Magic of Seasonal Giving: Nurturing Communities, Enriching Lives

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The act of giving fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose, creating a bond among community members.

During the holiday season, there’s a magical transformation in the air – a palpable sense of warmth, generosity and kindness that defines this time of year. Beyond the twinkling lights and festive decorations, one of the most enchanting aspects of the season is the spirit of giving. Seasonal giving not only makes a difference in the lives of others but also has a profound impact on our own well-being and the flourishing of our communities.

At its core, the act of giving is a powerful catalyst for positive emotions. Research consistently shows that engaging in acts of kindness, particularly during the holiday season, triggers the release of endorphins, the brain’s “feel-good” chemicals. Whether it’s donating to a local charity, volunteering at a community event or simply surprising a neighbor with a thoughtful gesture, the act of giving activates a sense of joy and fulfillment within us.

Acts of kindness have a profound and positive impact on our mental health, contributing to a sense of well-being and happiness. Here are several ways in which engaging in acts of kindness can benefit our mental health:

  • Reduction of Stress and Anxiety: Acts of kindness have been linked to a decrease in stress and anxiety levels. The positive emotions experienced during and after performing a kind deed can counteract the effects of stress hormones, contributing to a calmer and more relaxed state of mind.
  • Enhanced Mood: Engaging in acts of kindness triggers the release of endorphins, which are hormones that act as natural mood lifters. This can create a sense of happiness and contentment, fostering a more positive outlook on life.
  • Increased Sense of Connection: Kindness often involves social interactions, whether it’s helping a friend, supporting a colleague, or volunteering in the community. These social connections contribute to a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of loneliness, promoting overall mental well-being.
  • Boost in Self-Esteem: Performing acts of kindness can boost self-esteem and self-worth. Knowing that you have made a positive impact on someone else’s life can create a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment, reinforcing a positive self-image.
  • Shift in Perspective: Acts of kindness can help shift our perspective from focusing on personal challenges to recognizing the needs of others. This broader outlook can provide a more balanced and resilient mindset, reducing the impact of individual stressors.
  • Creation of Positive Feedback Loops: Kindness tends to create positive feedback loops. When we receive gratitude or positive responses from others after being kind, it reinforces the behavior, encouraging us to continue engaging in acts of kindness and perpetuating a cycle of positivity.
  • Altruism and Purpose: Acts of kindness often involve a sense of purpose and meaning, contributing to a greater sense of fulfillment. Knowing that our actions have a positive impact on others can add depth and purpose to our lives.
  • Improved Emotional Resilience: Engaging in acts of kindness can enhance emotional resilience, helping individuals better navigate life’s challenges. The positive emotions generated through kindness provide a buffer against the negative effects of stress and adversity.

The holiday season provides a unique opportunity to connect with others on a deeper level. The act of giving fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose, creating a bond among community members. In a world often marked by hustle and bustle, the holidays serve as a reminder to slow down, look around and extend a helping hand to those in need. These connections, forged through giving, contribute to the building of a resilient and supportive community fabric.

Beyond the individual level, the impact of seasonal giving ripples through communities, bringing about a host of benefits. Local charities and non-profits, often the recipients of generous donations during the holidays, can expand their reach and effectiveness. This increased support allows these organizations to implement vital programs and services that uplift the less fortunate, fostering a stronger, more compassionate community.

Finally, the act of giving teaches valuable lessons to younger generations. Children who witness and participate in acts of generosity during the holidays are more likely to grow into compassionate and empathetic adults. The holiday season becomes a classroom for teaching the importance of kindness, selflessness and the joy that comes from making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Seasonal giving is a powerful force that not only makes us feel better individually but also nurtures the thriving ecosystem of our communities. As we embrace the spirit of generosity during the holiday season, we contribute to a cycle of kindness that enriches the lives of those around us. Whether through charitable donations, volunteer work or simple acts of kindness, the magic of giving is an essential ingredient in creating a brighter, more connected and compassionate world. QCBN

By Deanna Eder

Deanna Eder is the director of marketing and communications at Polara Health.

Acts of Love: Lighting a Candle, Painting a Mural

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True love isn’t just for a holiday when everybody’s watching, it’s all the time, every day.

It must have been a cold wintery Christmas morning in downtown Prescott back in 1863 when the residents first gathered beside Granite Creek to observe the holiday. Since 1867, the courthouse became the center of attention with simple decorations. In modern times, those “good old days” back in the 1950s began a brighter focus when the Chamber of Ccommerce got into the act to add lighted decorations to the courthouse and the Christmas parade started in 1982. Then, Governor Rose Mofford declared Prescott as Arizona’s Christmas City in 1989. There are lot of books and historical references about Prescott because it has had, let’s say, a colorful past. From infamous Whiskey Row scoundrels to famous lawmen of the old West, the residents have always celebrated the Western cowboy spirit and embraced the holidays to welcome visitors in “Everybody’s Hometown.” It must be true love to hold your town and your community so dear.

The town’s designation seems to have more meaning these days as we struggle to find a moment, or a word, about peace when there seems to be so little around the world. Maybe Prescott holds the key. It doesn’t take a fearless sheriff to “keep the peace,” it takes everybody. Setting an example of the true meaning of the season with everyday life as “Everybody’s Hometown” is a simple idea. Living up to a unique and official designation as Arizona’s Christmas City may be kind of daunting, but it is worth it. True love isn’t just for a holiday when everybody’s watching, it’s all the time, every day. My grandma always told me, if you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.

This time of the year, we all get a little misty-eyed and sentimental about the holidays. It’s part of the deal. The idea is to just go with the flow – of tears, if necessary. Bake a few extra cookies to share with a neighbor. And, as expected from the partner in a candle business, light a candle to welcome family and friends. Take a walk around town and head over the Granite Creek to admire an amazing gift. The Granite Creek Mural Project (https://www.trailmurals.org/), painted by Dana Cohn, spans the concrete wall of the creek from Gurley to Willis streets. This colorful and beautiful mural must be an act of true love. You’ll see. Here’s just a part of the mural. QCBN

By Denise Jenike

Denise Jenike is the owner of Armadilla Wax Works in Prescott.

November is a Time to Honor and Celebrate as We Usher in the Holidays

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Please join me in these months of honor and celebration in our great City of Prescott.

One of the things I appreciate about Prescott is that our community truly enjoys celebrations and honoring those who serve. November is a time to do just that, as we celebrate Veterans Day and Thanksgiving, and then we usher in one of the most significant seasons with the events of Arizona’s Christmas City.

Veterans Day was originally named Armistice Day following the end of World War I, and then in the United States, it became a celebration honoring all of our military veterans. While Memorial Day is more of a remembrance of the veterans who sacrificed their lives for our great nation, I view Veterans Day as a celebration, giving us a chance to thank all veterans for their service to our country. We do so in grand style here in Prescott, with the annual Veterans Day Parade beginning at 11 a.m., Nov. 11, through the streets of historic downtown Prescott. I am proud of Prescott for hosting this important event. I believe that the Veterans Day Parade embodies the genuine appreciation our citizens show to veterans. Many thanks to Michelle Stacy-Schroeder, also a veteran, and her team of volunteers and city staff, who help make the parade a truly special event.

A few years back, Prescott was named one of the Most Patriotic Cities in the United States and is recognized as having one of the highest concentrations of veterans per capita, in any community, other than towns that host military bases. The Northern Arizona Veterans Administration Healthcare System works alongside numerous non-profits serving veterans, drawing these large numbers here. Prescott is truly one of the most veteran-friendly communities anywhere. Citizens genuinely support all veterans. As a Vietnam veteran who served in combat, I know how meaningful genuine expressions of appreciation are, since we did not receive a friendly reception when we returned from service many years ago.

Veterans Day is soon followed by another celebration with Thanksgiving, this year on Nov. 23.    This is an exciting time for me, since just a few days later, we begin the official Arizona’s Christmas City events. The festivities start with the Holiday Light Parade, 6 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 25, in the downtown area. One week later, on Saturday Dec. 2, we celebrate with the annual Christmas Parade, then the magical lighting of the Yavapai County Courthouse Plaza. Of course, there are other great Christmas City events, including Acker Night and many others. To see the full calendar of Arizona’s Christmas City events, check out ArizonaChristmasCity.com.

Please join me in these months of honor and celebration in our great City of Prescott. QCBN

By Phil Goode

Phil Goode is the mayor of Prescott.

The Importance of Regular Fire Inspections for Commercial Buildings

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Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to ensure that it is functioning properly at all times.

As a business owner, it is your responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of your employees and customers. One crucial aspect of building safety that should never be overlooked is fire protection. In case of a fire emergency, having a functional and reliable fire alarm system can mean the difference between life and death.

It is not enough to simply install a fire alarm in your commercial building. Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to ensure that it is functioning properly at all times. In this article, we will discuss the importance of regular fire inspections for commercial buildings and how they can help keep your business and those inside safe.

Commercial buildings are subject to strict fire safety regulations, and regular fire inspections are necessary to ensure compliance. Failure to meet these regulations can result in fines or even closure of your business. Our local fire agencies in the Prescott area have new codes that are important for you to be aware of. By having your fire alarm system inspected and maintained regularly, you can rest assured that your building meets all the necessary standards and regulations.

During a fire inspection, trained professionals will thoroughly examine every aspect of your fire alarm system, including its components and wirings. This allows them to identify any potential malfunctions or issues that could compromise the effectiveness of your fire alarm. By catching these problems early on, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure the safety of your building.

In many cases, insurance companies require proof of regular fire inspections to maintain coverage for your commercial building. These inspections serve as evidence that you are taking the necessary steps to protect your property and those inside in case of a fire emergency. Without proper inspections, your insurance coverage may be at risk, leaving you vulnerable to financial losses.

Don’t wait until it’s too late to invest in regular fire inspections for your commercial building and prioritize the safety of everyone inside. Your employees and customers will thank you. So, do not delay any further! 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. 

Understanding the Finances of Hearing Healthcare

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As always, if you have specific questions, feel free to reach out to your local audiologist.

Studies show that the average timespan from a person realizing they have trouble with their hearing to finally seeking help is seven years. One of the biggest reasons people wait is concern about cost. Information about hearing aids varies widely online and insurance benefits can be difficult to navigate. But taking care of your ears doesn’t need to be scary. While no two offices operate identically, the overall journey is largely the same.

Hearing Exam

The first step is always to obtain an accurate measurement of hearing sensitivity. Medicare will pay for one hearing exam a year. However, it is one year from the date of your last exam, not the calendar year. For example, if you were seen for an exam in June of this year, you would have to wait until June or later of next year in order for Medicare to help pay again. An exception to this rule is if the exam is deemed medically necessary (e.g., a perforated eardrum). Medicare also requires a referral from a primary care physician, since audiology is considered a specialty.

Most private insurances will also help to pay for the hearing exam. They also do not require a referral. However, some do require pre-authorization. This essentially means that the insurance is giving the provider permission to bill them after the patient is seen. The audiologist’s office will request the pre-authorization. Just make sure you provide all of your insurance information when scheduling to ensure everything is ready by the time you are seen. If you do not have insurance, or do not wish to use it, you can still be seen for an exam. Ask what the private pay rate is when scheduling your appointment.

Hearing Aids

If you are a candidate for hearing aids, the audiologist will then review the options with you. Sometimes this is done on the same day of the exam, and sometimes it is a separate appointment. But the consultation itself is often free. And most practices offer a trial period with the hearing aids. Some practices require upfront payment, while others collect payment once you decide to keep the devices. Either way, if you decide to return the hearing aids within the designated trial period, you will not be responsible for the cost of the devices.

In regard to paying for hearing aids, there are multiple options. You can, of course, pay for them entirely out-of-pocket. If the cost is too much to pay at once, you can ask about payment plans. There are also government and private organizations that can assist. On the government side, there is Vocational Rehabilitation. Their focus is on getting people prepared for the workforce. So, if you need hearing aids to do your job efficiently and safely, they can buy them for you. To be clear, you would need to meet their qualifications, so it is best to reach out to them directly if interested. Also note that not all clinics are contracted with Vocational Rehabilitation. Still, it can be a great option. If you are a veteran, you may qualify for free hearing aids through the VA. You would need to file a claim and be approved, as the VA requires authorization for everything. (You can’t be fit with hearing aids and then ask for the VA to help after the fact.) On the private side, organizations like the Lions Club often have programs to help the community.

Insurance gets a bit more complicated when it come to hearing aid coverage. Medicare, unfortunately, does not pay anything. Supplemental and private plans may help. It really just depends on the specific plan. If they do help to pay, the deductibles and benefit amounts vary. The best thing to do is provide your information when registering with a clinic, so that they can call and verify your exact benefit before you arrive.

Another important question to ask is about the different models the clinic offers. The more sophisticated the hearing aid, the higher the price. Knowing what each model provides and costs can help you make the most informed decision. It is also good to ask what kind of follow-up services are offered. Some clinics are bundled, meaning their services are included in the initial cost, while other are unbundled, meaning the cost of the hearing aids and services are separate.

As always, if you have specific questions, feel free to reach out to your local audiologist. QCBN

By Jeff Lane, Au. D.

Trinity Hearing Center is located at 1330 N. Rim Dr., Suite B in Flagstaff. For more information, visit the website at TrinityHearing.net. Jeff Lane is a doctor of audiology with a passion for improving the lives of others. Dr. Lane may be reached at 928-522-0500 or at audio@trinityhearing.net.

Ensuring Thanksgiving Safety for Our Furry Family Members

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Overindulging in the family feast can be unhealthy for humans, but even worse for pets.

Thanksgiving is a special holiday that brings together family and friends, but it can also carry some hazards for your pets.

Overindulging in the family feast can be unhealthy for humans, but even worse for pets. Fatty foods are hard for animals to digest, poultry bones can damage your pet’s digestive tract, and holiday sweets can contain ingredients that are poisonous to your pets.

Keep your food ON the table, not UNDER it! Turkey and turkey skin, sometimes even in small amounts, can cause a life-threatening condition in pets known as pancreatitis. Many foods that are healthy for people are poisonous to pets, including onions, raisins and grapes. A small piece of turkey (make sure it’s boneless, white and cooked all the way through) or a lick of mashed potatoes will not harm your pet, but anything more than that could potentially be harmful. If you want to give your pet a special Thanksgiving treat, give them a made-for-pets chew bone, OR make them a special dinner, taking their regular food and adding a few tidbits of turkey, vegetables (either sweet potato or green beans) and a few dribbles of gravy (make sure it does not contain onions or seasoning which can irritate their tummies).

Thanksgiving usually means a lot of baking of fresh bread and rolls. Don’t spoil your pet’s holiday by giving him access to raw yeast bread dough. When a dog or cat ingests this, the yeast continues to convert the sugars in the dough to carbon dioxide gas and alcohol. This can result in bloated, drunk pets, which could become a life-threatening emergency.

If you’re having people over, remember your pet may get overwhelmed, even if they are used to having people around. They may try to escape, so be sure to have an ID tag on your pet and make sure they’re microchipped, and the information attached to their microchip is current. Give them a safe place to hang out and relax, especially when you start eating, so they don’t get in the way, and your guests won’t be tempted to sneak them food.

Be careful with decorations. Special holiday displays or candles are attractive to pets as well as people, so never leave a pet alone in an area with a lit candle as it could result in a fire. Pinecones, needles and other decorations can cause intestinal blockage or even perforate an animal’s intestines if eaten.

The holidays are a time of giving thanks, family, food, celebrations and fun! Taking a few extra precautions will ensure your pet stays safe and can enjoy the celebrations with you.

During this Thanksgiving season, Yavapai Humane Society extends its heartfelt gratitude to all of our supporters for your unwavering dedication and generosity. Your support has been instrumental in our mission and to provide shelter, care, love and hope to countless animals in need. As we come together to celebrate the spirit of giving, your contributions have not only made a difference in the lives of the animals we serve but have also touched the lives of many in our community through our Community Pet Food Pantry, our Safety Net Program and more. We are deeply thankful for your commitment, and it is your compassion and support that allow us to continue our vital work, ensuring a brighter future for the animals who depend on us. From all of us at Yavapai Humane Society, we wish you a joyous and meaningful Thanksgiving. QCBN

By Loree Walden

Loree Walden is the marketing manager at Yavapai Humane Society.

Best Evergreen Shrubs for a Greener Winter

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Not to worry, you will find the best selection of winter evergreens at Watters Garden Center now, and it’s an excellent time to plant one of your own.

Autumn colors are spectacular. The colors and textures are unique to the four seasons of the mountain West. As we wrap up the last autumn leaves, the landscape can feel naked and bare. Deciduous plants, which lose their leaves through winter, often expose you to prying eyes, vehicle glare and a yard that feels empty. Evergreens take center stage for the next few months, and you can feel when the landscape doesn’t have the right mix of evergreen trees and shrubs.

Not to worry, you will find the best selection of winter evergreens at Watters Garden Center now, and it’s an excellent time to plant one of your own.

Here are the Top 15 most popular evergreen shrubs planted through winter.

Blue Star Juniper – This is strictly a foliage plant. If you like the look of a blue spruce tree but lack the space for something that big, merely scale down and grow a Blue Star Juniper. With its short blue needles, it looks terrific when planted next to shrubs with golden foliage.

Boxwood – This is a small, rounded evergreen that forms tufts of growth resembling clouds if left unpruned. This slow-growing dwarf form is ideal for edging borders along pathways or around flower beds. It is well-suited for topiary and containers and resistant to boxwood leaf miners.

Gilt Edge Silverberry – A splendid Arizona native, this shrub sports a combination of golden-yellow margins on bright green foliage that provides incredible year-round landscape interest. It’s superb as a hedge or low screen that tolerates heat and wind and requires little maintenance. Tiny, fragrant, silvery flowers followed by ornamental red fruit. Impervious to both javelina and deer.

Heavenly Bamboo is an evergreen with bright red highlights through winter. Bamboo-shaped foliage is graced with clusters of white flowers in spring that form red berries as summer heat arrives. Think versatility with this 3-foot-tall plant, as it is happy in any amount of sun, most soils, and tolerates any amount of cold or heat.

Holly is a broadleaf evergreen that usually grows 6 to 8 feet tall. The holly leaves develop a darker color that contrasts nicely against the bright red berries. It is perfect for north-facing borders, screens, hedges, and for foundation plantings. Easy to grow and impervious to mountain wildlife.

Indian Hawthorn – This easy-to-grow evergreen produces vast clusters of fragrant, pearl-pink flowers. Perfect for planting along driveways and parking medians where reflected heat is an issue for many other plants. This spring-blooming evergreen loves Arizona heat!

Mugho Pine – With its dense, symmetrical growth and compact, rounded form, this dwarf pine is perfect for confined spaces. Stunning green foliage takes on a golden hue during colder months. Its slow habit makes this evergreen an ideal specimen in smaller gardens or massed to make a bold statement in more significant landscapes.

Oregon Grape Holly – This is the perfect mountain evergreen, often mistaken for holly. Solar yellow flowers cover the entire plant in spring, followed by a summer berry that is attractive and edible. Heading into winter, the leaves turn a mixed cranberry and orange color that remains until spring blooms. This plant loves sun, heat, wind and requires less water than many natives.

Red Cluster Berry Cotoneaster – With white flowers in spring evolving to red berries that remain on the plant through winter, this plant is a welcome food source for feathered friends hanging around after welcoming in the new year. Growing 10 feet tall and wide, it loves the sun and is easy to grow.

Spreading Yew – This plant has rich green needles that border on black. The 4- to 6- foot spread is used as a hedge, screen or border in a shaded or dapple sunspace. Scarlet berries show off against all the wintergreen and are highly attractive to birds. QCBN

By Ken Lain

Ken Lain can be found at Watters Garden Center throughout the week, 1815 Iron Springs Road in Prescott, or contacted through his websites at WattersGardenCenter.com or Top10Shrubs.com.

Navigating the Holidays by Prioritizing Mental Health

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Navigating the holiday season while prioritizing your mental health requires a balanced approach.

The holiday season, with its twinkling lights, festive gatherings and joyful celebrations, can be a magical time of year. However, for many, it can also be a season filled with stress, anxiety and emotional challenges. Balancing the demands of family, social commitments and self-care can be a delicate act, and this is where prioritizing your mental health becomes crucial. Let’s explore some strategies for taking care of yourself during the holidays, including what to say yes to and what to say no to.

Say Yes to Self-Care

Set Realistic Expectations: It’s important to recognize that the holidays don’t need to be picture-perfect. Embrace imperfections and understand that it’s okay not to have everything go as planned. This mindset shift can help alleviate unnecessary stress.

Maintain Your Routine: Try to stick to your regular daily routine as much as possible. Consistency in sleep, exercise and nutrition can significantly impact your mental well-being.

Practice Gratitude: Take time to reflect on what you’re grateful for. This simple practice can help shift your focus away from stressors and toward the positive aspects of your life.

Prioritize Self-Care Activities: Schedule time for activities that rejuvenate you, whether it’s reading a book, taking a long bath or practicing mindfulness. These moments of self-care are vital for recharging your mental and emotional batteries.

Seek Support: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted friend or therapist. Sometimes, talking about your feelings and concerns can provide valuable insights and emotional relief.

Say No to Overcommitment

Limit Social Obligations: While it’s tempting to accept every invitation, be selective about the events and gatherings you attend. Overcommitting can lead to exhaustion and increased stress.

Set Boundaries: It’s essential to establish clear boundaries with family and friends. Communicate your limits and needs openly and assertively. Saying no when necessary is an act of self-care, not selfishness.

Manage Finances Mindfully: Overspending during the holidays can lead to financial stress. Set a budget and stick to it. Consider creative, low-cost gift ideas or activities to celebrate the season without breaking the bank.

Avoid Comparison: Social media can amplify feelings of inadequacy during the holidays. Remember that people often only share their highlight reel online. Don’t compare your holiday experience to others.

Delegate and Share Responsibilities: If you’re hosting a holiday gathering, don’t hesitate to delegate tasks or share responsibilities with family members. Sharing the load can reduce stress and create a sense of togetherness.

Say Yes to Meaningful Connections

Quality Over Quantity: Instead of spreading yourself thin across numerous social engagements, focus on spending quality time with a few close friends or family members. Meaningful connections can provide emotional support and fulfillment.

Give Back: Volunteering or participating in charitable activities can be incredibly rewarding. Helping others in need can boost your mood and provide a sense of purpose during the holidays.

Celebrate Traditions: Engage in holiday traditions that hold sentimental value for you and your loved ones. These traditions can foster a sense of belonging and connection.

Practice Mindful Presence: When you’re with loved ones, be fully present. Put away distractions like phones and immerse yourself in the moment. Meaningful conversations and shared experiences can strengthen relationships.

Say No to Toxic Relationships

Recognize Toxicity: If a relationship consistently brings you stress, negativity or emotional harm, it’s essential to recognize it. Consider whether it’s worth maintaining such a relationship in the long term.

Set Healthy Boundaries: If you must interact with individuals who bring negativity into your life, establish clear boundaries to protect your mental well-being. Limit the time you spend with them and prioritize your own needs.

Navigating the holiday season while prioritizing your mental health requires a balanced approach. Say yes to self-care, meaningful connections and setting healthy boundaries. Say no to overcommitment, toxic relationships and unrealistic expectations. By making intentional choices and focusing on what truly matters, you can create a holiday season that nourishes your mind, body and soul, allowing you to enter the new year with a sense of well-being and resilience. QCBN

By Deanna Eder

Deanna Eder is the director of marketing for Polara Health.