The Arizona Beehive Magazine November December 2025 Issue by The Arizona Beehive Magazine

Remembering

the

Life of President Russell M. Nelson

By newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/

ussell M. Nelson, beloved President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, passed away peacefully shortly after 10 p.m. MDT September 27, 2025 at his home in Salt Lake City. He was 101 — the oldest president in the history of the Church.

President Nelson was called as an Apostle on April 7, 1984. He became the leader of the Church on January 14, 2018. His time as prophet will forever be remembered as one of global ministry (he visited 32 countries and U.S. territories), increased temple construction (he announced 200 new temples) and profound change. Beginning in the April 2018 general conference in which he was sustained as president of the Church, the prophet began introducing frequent adjustments designed to help the Saints minister more like Jesus Christ and better emphasize the cen-

trality of the Savior of the world in all the Church does. Later sections of this obituary provide a detailed accounting of his travels as president and the many changes he implemented.

Prior to full-time Church service, President Nelson was a heart surgeon revered and respected the world over. He performed the first open-heart surgery in Utah in 1955. He served as president of the Society for Vascular Surgery, a director of the American Board of Thoracic Surgery, chairman of the Council on Cardiovascular Surgery for the American Heart Association and president of the Utah State Medical Association. He authored numerous chapters in medical textbooks and other publications. He lectured at and visited professionally many organizations throughout the United States and other nations.

A “Beloved Physician” Who Fused Medicine and Faith One might not expect an Apostle to be

a world-renowned heart surgeon, as was the case with President Nelson before his call to lifelong service in the Church. But healing hearts physi-

Russell M. Nelson surgeon portrait.

What’s The Buzz?

TOOLS OF THE TRADE

I got a new calling: Ward Executive Secretary. My second time serving in this capacity. The first time was way back in the log cabin days (1985) where the only tool of the trade was a 6” x 8” gray-covered calendar book I found laying around the apartment. That book never left my side as I kept track of every official move my bishop made. He and I communicated often, and anyone wanting to see the bishop made an appointment through me. Or they did not see the bishop. In those days bishops dealt with all temporal as well as spiritual issues. They conducted all temple recommend interviews. My bishop was the “Transient Bishop” as well, so he met often with anyone who was in the Stake, or anyone who wandered into the Stake (“Uh, ya, I’m a member and the pastor of my last congregation sent me here for some car payment money...” Mmm hmm...) that needed special temporal help.

All of it was well managed through my little gray book.

Forty years later, things have changed a bit. Now all calendaring is carried out electronically via apps and Google calendar and JotForm. Our ward has an Assistant Executive Secretary, which is wonderful! There are no more transient bishops; there are, however, Deseret Industries and Family Services and Employment Centers, and Home Storage Centers and Bishop’s Storehouses. And the bishop is focused mainly on the youth, with the Elders Quorum President and Relief Society President doing the temporal needs heavy lifting.

I have found that my biggest challenge as Executive Secretary is keeping my mouth shut during Bishopric Meetings. I was part of a bishopric once, but now I “work closely with the bishop and his counselors, but [I am] not a member of the bishopric.” Hey! I got ideas! Well, that is not my current role. And I respect that. I respect the organization of the Church.

Another person of note with a new calling: Dallin H. Oaks. Only he has the reverse issue I have. Where he was in a position to offer counsel, he’s now expected to open his mouth as the “mouthpiece of the Lord.” He respects the organization of the Church. Ezra Taft Benson was the President of the Church when I was called the first time as Executive Secretary. Things have changed for Dallin H. Oaks since then as well.

The common denominator for both President Oaks and I (pretty sure that both of us getting new callings at about the same time makes us buddies) is of course the Gospel. The tools of the trade change as the world changes, as technology, programs, organization and administration in and of the Church changes. But the Gospel never changes. And neither does its purpose. With that in mind, carrying around a little gray book or an iPad to conduct Church business matters not, as long as the primary purpose is kept front of mind: faith, repentance, baptism, Holy Ghost, endure. That ... I have written on my heart. In pen and in gigabytes.

Thank you for reading...

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cally and spiritually is not uncommon for disciples of Jesus Christ in any age. The New Testament writer Luke was a physician of some repute — indeed, the Apostle Paul, with whom he traveled as a missionary, called him “the beloved physician” (Colossians 4:14).

As a physician, President Nelson was perhaps best known for his part in the development of an artificial heart and lung machine small enough to function in an operating room. It was an achievement that heightened his appreciation for the gift of life. “I think a surgeon is in a unique position to understand one of God’s greatest creations — the human body,” he said. “Every segment of the body motivates me to faith.”

President Nelson’s reverence for life instilled in him a spiritual approach to medicine. His lodestar scripture in the Doctrine and Covenants guided his actions both in and out of the operating room: “And when we obtain any blessing from God, it is by obedience to that law upon which it is predicated” (Doctrine and Covenants 130:21).

“In other words,” President Nelson said, “you don’t wish for a blessing; you work for a blessing and you make it possible. I often taught my team with whom I was working: This patient has been praying for success, and he’s got a family praying for success. All of those prayers won’t do a bit of good if you make a single mistake, so you’ve got to do your job perfectly in order for this patient to have a possibility of having the blessing they seek.”

His medical school days stretched to the first 12 years of his marriage. His graduation from the University of Utah’s medical school at age 22 was followed by an internship and several more years of residency in Minnesota and Massachusetts; two years of military duty in Washington, D.C., and abroad; and a Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota. His consuming interest in research eventually led to his groundbreaking work on the heart-lung machine. He later served as a research professor of Remembering President Nelson

surgery and director of the Thoracic Surgery Residency at the University of Utah and chairman of the Division of Thoracic Surgery at LDS Hospital in Salt Lake City.

In 1955 President Nelson performed the first open-heart surgery in Utah, and he completed more than 7,000 operations throughout his career. One of his most noteworthy operations came in 1972, when President Nelson’s love of medicine and faith came full circle when he was asked to perform high-risk surgery on Spencer W. Kimball, who was at the time a senior Apostle of the Church. President Nelson was serving as the Church’s General Sunday School President while continuing his work as a heart surgeon. He was given a priesthood blessing before the operation that he believed affected the outcome.

“It was just like a musician who played a piano concerto without ever making a mistake or a baseball pitcher pitching nine innings of errorless ball,” he said. “That long and complicated operation was done without a single flaw. And at the end of the operation when his heart leaped with power, I knew that he would live. And as we were closing his chest, I had the feeling that this man would live to become the President of the Church.”

Spencer W. Kimball indeed became President of the Church and lived another 13 years.

Life with Dantzel

President Nelson always sought to do his best at whatever task was before him. As a young child, it was the performing arts, not the healing arts, that first captured his attention. He sang tenor in a prizewinning quartet and played the lead in a musical as a freshman at the University of Utah. In fact, his love of music eventually led him to the love of his life. He remembers arriving for a rehearsal for an upcoming play and hearing a soprano on the stage. “She was stunning,” President Nelson recalled. “Her voice was incredible, and I said, ‘Who is that?’ The musical director replied, ‘That’s Dantzel White. She’s the one you’ll be singing with in this show.’” President Nelson said, “We never made another date with anyone else from that point forward.”

Music became a centerpiece of their lives together. The Nelsons never went without music in their home after purchasing a used piano for less than $100 early in their marriage. During his days as a physician, President Nelson would get up early in the morning to play the piano and study the scriptures. Combining

them, he said, brought a spiritual influence into their home.

Like many young married couples, the Nelsons worked together to make ends meet, and it wasn’t always easy. “I thought they were a really good team,” recalled Gloria Nelson Irion, the third of the 10 Nelson children. “They took good care of each other and were really secure in their love for each other. When my dad would come home from work, or come into the home, his first thing he would do was go seek out my mother and greet her with a hug and a kiss. … He showed us that the best thing a man can do for his children is to love their mother.”

Dantzel was the heart of the Nelson home. President Nelson said, “She has given me companionship, 10 beautiful children and all those wonderful intangible things a wife gives to a husband to help him strive for fulfillment and selflessness.”

For his part, President Nelson spent time with his children in the midst of a busy medical and Church schedule. He traveled extensively and often took one family member with him at a time. He viewed these times with his children as a wise investment.

President and Sister Nelson in

Marrying Wendy L. Watson

President Nelson fervently believed the secret to a happy life is not what you have but the knowledge you possess of God. His spiritual mettle was tested when his beloved Dantzel passed away unexpectedly in February 2005. If anything, her death strengthened his faith and commitment to family.

Shortly after the April 2006 General Conference, President Nelson married Wendy L. Watson. Prior to

Graduating college in 1947.

President Nelson and his first wife, Dantzel, in 1945.

The Nelson family in 1982.

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Remembering President Nelson Continued

the marriage, the Canadian-born Sister Nelson had been a professor of marriage and family therapy for 25 years — the last 13 at Brigham Young University.

Sister Nelson has spoken of the spiritual wrestle of fasting and prayer she experienced before choosing to develop a relationship with then-Elder Nelson. She said entering a large family and uprooting herself from her career, among other things, proved to be tremendous challenges.

“We think, ‘Oh, it’s the Lord’s will. That means everything is going to be just easy and wonderful and marvelous.’ And instead, it was tough,” Sister Nelson said during a ministry trip to the Pacific with the prophet in May 2019. “We had different expectations. He was still grieving Dantzel, without a doubt. … It was a huge change.”

During a ministry visit to Australia in 2019, President Nelson described Wendy this way: “She’s a doctor. She’s a gerontologist. She’s a marriage and family therapist. And she’s a really fun girl to be with.”

During ministry visits to several Latin American countries in the fall of 2019, the prophet gave significant portions of his sermons in Spanish, much to the delight of the local Latter-day Saints. In Peru, for example, he delivered introductory remarks in English. Then he transitioned, saying, “With your permission, I would like to address you in Spanish.” The entire coliseum erupted in applause.

“I was once with him, and he broke into Russian as part of a communication with a Russian-speaking person,” President Oaks said. “I know that he learned enough Chinese to participate in an openheart surgery operation in China, giving instructions in Chinese, in the operating room.”

In fact, his daughter said her father was conversant in 11 languages.

He was also instrumental in getting the Church recognized in many communist countries. “He was an eyewitness to the miracles that happened there,” his daughter said.

After becoming the leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in January 2018, President Nelson visited extensively with Latterday Saints and government and religious leaders on nearly every continent. He traveled to 32 countries

and U.S. territories.

He also spent significant time building bridges with leaders of other faiths and groups and nations. Most notable was his visit with Pope Francis at the Vatican in March 2019 and his relationship with the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), a civil rights organization in the United States.

“We had a most cordial, unforgettable experience,” President Nelson said of his visit with the pope. “His Holiness, he was most gracious and warm and welcoming. What a sweet, wonderful man he is, and how fortunate the Catholic people are to have such a gracious, concerned, loving and capable leader.”

In May 2018 the prophet joined NAACP leaders in a call for greater civility and racial harmony. Then, in July 2019, NAACP leaders invited President Nelson to speak at the organization’s annual convention in Detroit. “We don’t have to be alike or look alike to have love for each other. We don’t even have to agree with each other to love each other,” President Nelson said. He gathered again with NAACP leaders in June

“He’s the prophet to the world, and he has that view,” Elder Holland said. “He has that prophetic seership. We sustain him as a seer and a revelator, and he is looking at the whole world.”

A Man Who Changed the Church

Many significant changes were introduced by President Nelson. Each change was designed to place laser-like focus on Jesus Christ.

Under his leadership the prophet adjusted the way Saints around the world minister to each other. He repeatedly stressed the importance of the correct name of the Church. He shifted the emphasis of gospel instruction to be centered in each home and supported by the Church. He modified a policy allowing children of LGBT parents to be baptized. He adjusted the faith’s temple recommend interview questions to help Church members more deeply understand the purpose of temple worship. He introduced a new global youth program for the Church’s children and teenagers. He announced a new witness policy for live baptisms, proxy baptisms and live and proxy sealings. He authorized a global policy for couples married civilly to be married immediately in one of the faith’s temples. He reorganized and consolidated priesthood quorums and organizations for adults and children. He introduced various changes to missionary policies and procedures. He changed the Church’s symbol to includes a portrayal of the resurrected, living Lord Jesus Christ. And he read a new proclamation to the world about the Restoration of the fulness of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

All these changes were made as President Nelson encouraged Latter-day Saints to receive personal guidance from God just as he received revelation for the Church. He and other leaders repeatedly said these changes are part of the ongoing Restoration of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

A Master Teacher Who Touched Hearts

2021 to announce educational and humanitarian initiatives related to their ongoing collaboration.

The prophet bolstered these bridge-building efforts by urging Latter-day Saints to be peacemakers who “build, lift, encourage, persuade, and inspire — no matter how difficult the situation.”

While traveling with President Nelson in 2018 (a trip that included a stop in Jerusalem, the city of peace), then-Elder Jeffrey R. Holland of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles noted President Nelson’s global vision.

President Oaks referred to President Nelson as a master teacher. “I’ve heard surgeons that he trained comment on how effective he was at teaching them to be surgeons,” President Oaks said. “And I’ve seen him as the master teacher teach the servants of the Lord in the same way.”

As a “beloved physician” President Nelson literally touched the hearts of hundreds of patients suffering from physical ailments. As a disciple of Christ, he healed hearts through word and deed.

President Nelson is survived by his wife, Wendy, eight of his 10 children, 57 grandchildren, and more than 167 great-grandchildren.

President Russell M. Nelson, his wife, Wendy, and Elder Gary E. Stevenson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, greet Latter-day Saints in Peru for an evening devotional October 20, 2018.

A Polyglot Prophet to the Nations

Pope Francis welcomes President Russell M. Nelson to the Vatican Saturday, March 9, 2019.

President Nelson greets the Reverend Dr. Amos C. Brown prior to a news conference with NAACP leadership in the Church Administration Building on Temple Square in Salt Lake City on June 14, 2021.

With Elder Holland in Jerusalem.

Building Bridges

LOCAL

INTERFAITH LEADERS REFLECT ON PRESIDENT NELSON’S LEGACY

By Tony Gutiérrez

Between being the first Prophet to meet a pope of the Catholic Church and his relationship with faith leaders within the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, the late Church President Russell M. Nelson’s legacy has been particularly marked by, among other things, his own interfaith outreach efforts.

Following President Nelson’s September 27, 2025 passing, local interfaith leaders reflected on this legacy.

During President Nelson’s historic visit to Phoenix in 2019, he met with more than three dozen local faith, civic and government leaders including the Most Rev. Thomas J. Olmsted, the then bishop for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix. “Over the years as the Bishop of Phoenix, I met annually with the Latter-day Saint local leadership,” the bishop emeritus reflected. “Much of our conversations focused on our shared interest in meeting the needs of the poor and homeless and on their support for the good work of Catholic Charities and the St.

Vincent de Paul Society.”

Executive Director of Arizona Interfaith Movement Dr. Albert Celoza cited President Nelson’s promotion of the JustServe program as an example of collaborative efforts. “President Nelson has inspired us beyond making statements of religious freedom by expressing this through service to others without consideration of faith affiliation or discrimination,” Celoza said. “I hope that the Arizona Interfaith Movement and I will continue to live out his legacy of global engagement, faith-filled lives and protection of minority or marginalized faiths.”

The October 2025 General Conference’s World Report noted collaborative efforts including hosting a multi-agency resource center in Pasadena following the deadly California Wildfires, providing feminine health support in Nepal, delivering 70,000 lbs. of food to the Rainbow PUSH Coalition founded by Civil Rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson, and responding to the devastating floods in Central Texas.

“President Russell Nelson has had a profound impact on interfaith relations,” Celoza said. “He is a

great example of the fulfillment of our organization’s mission, that of ‘building bridges of understanding, respect, and support among diverse people of faith.’” Arizona Interfaith Movement Board President Rev. Rock Fremont said that President Nelson significantly advanced the cause of interfaith collaboration. Locally that’s been manifested several times with interfaith leaders attending the annual “Jesus the Christ” Mesa Easter Pageant. “I think President Nelson’s now legacy in interfaith relations is one of

Continued on pg. 11

—Michael M.

Photo Courtesy of Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Newsroom

President Russell M. Nelson greets the Most Rev. Thomas J. Olmsted then bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix, Feb. 10, 2019.

New First Presidency Called

By Newsroom.ChurchofJesusChrist.org

President Dallin Harris Oaks was announced as the 18th president and prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Tuesday, October 14, 2025. The announcement was made during a live broadcast from Salt Lake City, Utah. President Oaks was sustained and set apart earlier in the day.

In The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the prophet is chosen through a divinely inspired process. When the prophet passes away, the First Presidency is dissolved. The Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, led by the longest-serving Apostle, assumes leadership, confirming the new prophet through revelation and priesthood authority.

President Oaks, 93, succeeds President Russell M. Nelson, who passed away September 27, 2025.

“I accept with humility the responsibility that God has placed upon me and commit my whole heart and soul to the service to which I’ve been called,” President Oaks said.

The new leader of a global faith of more than 17 million members has called President Henry B. Eyring, 92, and President D. Todd Christofferson, 80, to serve with him as First and Second Counselors in the First Presidency, the Church’s highest governing body. Jeffrey R. Holland, 84, will serve as President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles.

“I’m grateful to President Eyring and to President Christofferson for accepting their responsibilities, and I’m grateful to the Quorum of the Twelve, whom I esteem and love also as Apostles of the Lord Jesus Christ, for their commitment to follow the Lord’s will through his duly appointed servants.”

President Dallin H. Oaks

President Dallin H. Oaks has served as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles since May 1984. He was president of Brigham Young University from 1971 to 1980, and a justice of the Utah Supreme Court from 1980 until his resignation in 1984 to accept his calling to the apostleship.

President Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor

President Henry B. Eyring served as a counselor to President Russell M. Nelson from 2018 to 2025, to President Thomas S. Monson from 2008 to 2018, and to President Gordon B. Hinckley from 2007 to 2008. He was sustained as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on April 1, 1995. Prior to full-time Church service, President Eyring was president of Ricks College in Rexburg, Idaho, from 1971 to 1977. He was on the faculty at the Graduate School of Business at Stanford University from 1962 to 1971.

“I’m grateful for the trust, and grateful for the people whose faith I know will sustain us in this great work of the Restoration and the final preparation of the Lord’s Church for His coming,” President Eyring said. “I bear you my testimony that preparation is occurring and that President Oaks is the perfect one to do the things that I know the Lord will want done.”

President D. Todd Christofferson, Second Counselor

President D. Todd Christofferson was called to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles on April 5, 2008, and previously served in the Presidency of the Seventy. Before full-time Church service, he was associate general counsel of NationsBank Corporation (now Bank of America) in Charlotte, North Carolina. Previously he was senior vice president and general counsel for Commerce Union Bank of Tennessee in Nashville, where he was also active in community affairs and interfaith organizations. From 1975 to 1980, Elder Christofferson practiced law in Washington, D.C.

“I recognize that I’m not called to be honored, but called to serve, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve at the side of President Dallin H. Oaks and Henry B. Eyring,” President Christofferson said. “It is Jesus Christ who is the head of the Church. I know that. I bear witness of it. I’m more sure of it every day. I know Him. I honor Him. I pledge my life and discipleship to Him.”

President Jeffrey R. Holland, President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles

President Jeffrey R. Holland served as Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles from November 15, 2023, to September 27, 2025. He was sustained as an Apostle on June 23, 1994. Prior to his call as a General Authority in 1989, President Holland served as the ninth president of Brigham Young University and has been active in professional educational activity throughout his life.

“We love [President Oaks]. We have known him. We’ve watched him be prepared and have had the confirmation that that is the Lord’s will this day,” said President Holland, speaking on behalf of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, the Presidency of the Seventy, the Presiding Bishopric and the General Officers of the Church. “And that has been a unanimous and a very, very moving experience to see that mantle come fully and completely on President Oaks. We stand ready to serve him out to the newest convert and the most recently called missionary.”

To conclude the announcement, President Oaks focused on the global nature of the ministry of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

“Our ministry is a ministry of all the children of God on the face of the earth,” President Oaks said. “We pray for all. We seek to serve all. And we invoke the blessings of the Lord Jesus Christ upon all who seek to serve Him, to do so in worthiness and commitment and optimism. We do not have the answers to all the world’s problems. They have not been revealed. But what we do know is that we are all children of heavenly parents, and that we are called to serve all of the children of God.”

(l to r) Henry B. Eyring, First Counselor; Dallin H. Oaks, President; D. Todd Christopherson, Second Counselor.

Photo courtesy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Queen Creek to Host Its First

LightTheWorld Giving Machine

By Jennifer Wheeler Media Specialist, Arizona Communication Council, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

For the first time ever, Queen Creek will host a Light the World Giving Machine this holiday season, joining cities across Arizona and around the world. These unique ‘vending machines in reverse’ allow visitors to donate directly to those in need— locally and globally.

The Queen Creek Giving Machine will be open to the public Nov. 14–Dec. 7, 2025, at Pecan Lake Entertainment. Additional machines will be stationed in Gilbert, Scottsdale/Phoenix, Show Low, Prescott, Snowflake, Gila Valley, and Tucson.

Queen Creek Giving Machine Nonprofit Beneficiaries

Harvest Pack House of Refuge

Mary Gloria Foundation

Arizona Friends of Foster Children Foundation

Hope Women’s Center Days for Girls (Global Charity)

The Light the World initiative aims to increase community unity through loving and caring for those in need in simple and meaningful ways. Giving Machine visitors can purchase and donate items ranging from warm clothing for a child, groceries for a family, or job training for the underemployed—to even livestock for communities across the globe.

Mentors International (Global Charity)

“The Giving Machines allow our community

to come together in such a tangible way,” said Kayla Kolar, President and CFO of House of Refuge. “Every contribution directly helps families facing homelessness find safety, stability, and hope for a brighter future here at House of Refuge.”

Queen Creek residents will be contributing to a movement that has raised nearly $50 million worldwide since 2017. In Arizona alone, generous donors have contributed more than $6.7 million to local and global charities through the Giving Machines.

Sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Giving Machines make charitable giving quick and impactful. Items range in price from $5 to $250 and include staples such as clothing and hygiene items, meals and school supplies to livestock and life-saving medicine.

To learn more about Giving Machines and how to participate, visit lighttheworld.org/give. One hundred percent of all donations go directly to participating charities.

200 TEMPLES

Announced by President Russell M. Nelson

During his administration as the 17th President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from January 2018 until his Septempter 27, 2025 death, President Russell M. Nelson announced locations for 200 temples, beginning with 7 announced during the April 2018 General Conference and ending with the 15 locations announced during the concluding session of the April 2025 General Conference.

Here is the current status of all 200 temples as of September 29, 2025:

• 28 temples dedicated.

• 4 temples scheduled for dedication.

• 56 temples under construction.

• 2 temples scheduled for groundbreaking.

• 29 temples with both site locations identified and renderings published.

• 17 temples with only site locations identified.

• 64 announced temples still in planning.

Continued from pg. 9

respectful bridgebuilding, principled engagement and practical cooperation,” added Rev. Fremont, who is also senior pastor of Shepherd of the Hills United Church of Christ in the Arcadia area.

President Nelson had a famous relationship with the Rev. Dr. Amos Brown, NAACP board member and recently retired pastor of Third Baptist Church in San Francisco. Rev. Brown, a protégé of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., was among those who attended the Prophet’s funeral and paid tribute to him in Deseret News.

“I think President Nelson ultimately was trying to help us recognize these are our brothers and sisters, and we are commanded to love one another. We have this obligation to build bridges, to understand, to connect, to empathize, ultimately, to mourn and comfort and lift others wherever they are,” said Marcus Johnson, who is also chairman of the Arizona Interfaith Movement’s Golden Rule Awards ceremony. “That’s what true disciples of Jesus Christ’s covenant to do in terms of to love one another and to be peacemakers.”

Building Bridges

Peace Of Mind

Roadrunner Mobile Notary’s Joan Green

The request was for a gentleman who was homebound, needing a health care directive signed but lacking the required witness. For Joan Greene, owner of Roadrunner Mobile Notary, this was not just another job, but a moment when her service translated directly into a priceless commodity: peace of mind.

Recognizing the gentleman’s urgent need for a notary and witnesses, she paired him with another client—a traveling family who also needed a witness—allowing them to meet at the homebound man’s residence. “The traveling family could travel to him, and he couldn’t travel to them,” Greene said. “It benefited them both.”

Greene views mobile notary public role as much a matter of trust as it is a legal formality. She often finds creative ways to solve complex logistical problems and has a deep network of symbiotic professionals she can tap into when necessary.

The Arizona native earned her undergraduate degree in psychology at the University of Arizona. She never

dreamed that one day she’d put it to use as the owner of a mobile notary service. Greene said she sort of “fell into it,” seeing an opportunity when a state legislator proposed a bill that would have required all mail-in ballots to be notarized. Though the bill did not pass, her business was born.

Without the need to zero in on clients in need of a notary for mail-in ballots, Greene’s opportunities to take her stamp pad on the road expanded to jails, businesses and a wide variety of services for individuals and families— wherever there is a need. “My niche is people who need extra time, who might have Parkinson’s, who are on hospice, or who are in the hospital,” she said.

Roadrunner serves the Phoenix-metro area as well as the city of Maricopa in Pinal County. On occasion, Greene travels as far as to Sahuarita in Pima County.

Regardless of where—or why— they meet, Greene knows that a great notary must ease the anxiety of the moment, ensuring the client feels comfortable and understood. While main-

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taining strict legal protocol, she aims to create an authentic, relaxed exchange.

This approach ensures absolute certainty that the signed documents are legally sound, giving her clients the ultimate feeling of security and peace of mind.

Her philosophy since the beginning has been to blend legal precision with genuine human warmth. That’s because Greene understands that when a document requires her seal, it is often a pivotal, stressful, or deeply significant moment in a client’s life.

“You’re dealing with people at their most vulnerable times,” Greene said. “They need someone reliable, and they need to know it’s done right.”

As a notary, Greene regularly executes Acknowledgments, verifying a signer’s identity for documents such as deeds and powers of attorney. She also performs Jurats, where clients must take an oath affirming the truthfulness of affidavits.

Her most intricate work involves serving as a loan signing agent for complex real estate closings, a special-

ized process handling everything from mortgages to closing disclosures.

Greene’s services also extend to preparing essential documents for families from end-of-life to adoptions, to helping young adults get their paperwork together for foreign or domestic missions—or heading off to college.

Finally, Greene emphasized, the parents of all young adults should consider securing a signed power of attorney, even if there doesn’t appear to be an immediate need. It’s one thing many busy parents might miss.

“Once that child turns 18, you are locked out,” she said, stressing that parents lose legal access to school, medical and financial records without this critical document.

Joan Green and Bailey.

Finding Hozho

Holt Hamilton Honors Native

American Heritage Month with

HNative Film Release

By Travis Hamilton

olt Hamilton’s newest movie “Finding Hozho”, will open in theatres November 7th during Native American Heritage Month. The film will simultaneously begin travel to Native American communities and organizations across the United States.

“Finding Hozho” is the story of a seventy-yearold veteran who has one chance to give his terminal father a place to stay - his home; but when the painful memories of childhood resurface, he must fight to forgive or live in the shadows of Hozho forever. The tagline and theme for the movie is “Don’t wait your entire life to forgive”.

“We are excited to share this powerful story with the world. I have been dreaming of this day for almost a decade. Originally, I had the thought that if I was to make one last film, what would it be? This is the film that sparked from that question.” Stated

filmmaker Holt Hamilton. The film was produced in just 10 days earlier this year in Arizona. Hamilton continued, “Twelve of our nineteen cast members appear for their first time on the big screen, with most of them having zero acting experience prior to these roles. I continue to be amazed with the depth of undiscovered talent opportunities within Native Country, both young and old.”

The movie is projected to open on 24 screens across North America and then expand to many screens as momentum grows. “Getting to play on the big screen is an honor and a big deal. It’s challenging being so small and going up against the Goliath’s of Hollywood for screens.

November is one of the busiest times for a film to be released. We’ve prioritized releasing our Native movies in November as it is Native American Heritage Month.” Hamilton shared.

Simultaneously with the release of “Finding Hozho” in theatres, Hamilton will start his anticipated ‘FINDING HOZHO REZ TOUR’ and hit the road personally with the film. “I grab my backpack,

On-set during filming. Photo courtesy of Travis Hamilton

Movie poster. Photo courtesy of Travis Hamilton

GONE DIGITAL

Infinity Business Web Creates A

New

TBy Rauna Mortensen

Website For The Arizona Beehive Magazine

he Arizona Beehive Magazine has a new website! After three years of being websiteless, arizonabeehivemagazine.com gives hearty accolades to David Hall and associates of Infinity Business Web for their services.

I interviewed David Hall and Arizona Beehive Magazine owner and publisher Michael O’Brien to discover the process of creating a new website.

“We’ve been without a website for 3 years

now, after our last one was hacked and basically destroyed,” explained O’Brien. “I toyed with the idea of creating a simple site myself, but eventually realized I needed help! Infinity Business Web has been advertising in our magazine for a while now, so it was natural to reach out to them.

“They bring to the table marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), design, copywriting, and technical expertise developed over 18 years of doing high-end dental websites and now make their services available to any business seeking to market on the internet.”

Recognizing that many business owners initially feel that they are able to successfully build their own websites, Hall pointed out to O’Brien that “with current tools, it can be easy to put up a website or to use inexperienced people, but we offer people the advantage of high levels of expertise in several areas: Search engine optimization, marketing, and various other internet issues.”

The process of building arizonabeehivemagazine.com started from scratch, not considering the previous website at all. O’Brien was interviewed by a member of Infinity Web’s team in order to

create the framework of the new site. Features and benefit examples from other sites were shared with Infinity Business Web and shortly thereafter mock webpages were created and sent to O’Brien. “This process was wonderful,” recounts O’Brien. “In our digital world, I was able to work with Infinity Business Web via email, text and phone. Ideas were exchanged, web page examples were emailed, my feedback was gathered and pages were updated to the point of my approval.”

Hall’s first foray in the digital world was a website he built, that is still available, called Mynewsmile.com. Here he assembled information about cosmetic dentistry for his patients while he worked as a dentist. Through his study of search engine optimization, he was able to get strong rankings, and within a few years, was able to attract

All photos courtesy of David Hall Travis Wachendorf, Senior Web Developer who did coding on Arizona Beehive Magazine website.

The new Arizona Beehive Magazine website.

Memories: Share the Stuff That Means the Most

We have a granddaughter serving a mission and her mission president has a saying that he uses often. It is “The opportunity of a lifetime only lasts the lifetime of an opportunity.” As I read this I immediately applied to Family History. We have experiences in life that may be memorable or remarkable but those experiences only last for the time we are having them. However, these memories can last a long time but they fade over the years and the details become vague. Photographs help us remember longer and with more detail, but even these are only good for a certain length of time. A photograph of my mother and her best friend does me no good unless she has told me her best friend’s name or has written it on the picture.

Familysearch.org is a fantastic place to put those pictures and stories. Of course, we need to label, tag, date and add the place

to each item. As we do this it will bring back a flood of memories to others who see them as well.

A friend takes the opportunity each Christmas to write a brief half sheet or less about her life. It may be from a trip she took or a place she lived. She then has them printed on nice paper with a picture on the back of the page. She gives one of these to each of her children and grandchildren. They are uniform in size so they can be kept together.

We have a white elephant exchange with our kids. The twist is that we provide all of the white el

ephants from stuff we have around our house. They love this because they are excited to see what amazing or strange thing they will receive each year. Last year this gift exchange led to a great project for us when they came over and cleaned out our attic. Now we don’t have to climb in the attic anymore. A win for all involved!

Someone else I know takes special little figurines or trinkets and writes a special note to the person she is giving it to letting them know why it is special to her and why she gave it to them. She also shares with them a special memory of them doing something together.

Another person I know gives certificates to each of her family members with a promise to take them to dinner wherever they want to go. Grandkids love this because it makes them feel so grown up.

Last year we gave our children a flash drive with copies of the 35 hours of taped conversation I had with my parents about their lives. I

can’t add all of this to family search but now they can hear their grandparents’ voices whenever they want to. There are many ideas of ways to share ourselves. Our kids don’t want our stuff; they want the memories that went with the stuff. The memories that will help them always feel your love, hugs and caring.

By Lynne Tolman

by the author

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Photos

White elephants for white elephant gifts!

The Cowboy Poet

By Katherine Ogden

As a young boy, David Clark Lamoreaux grew up in Paragonah, Utah, a very small farming community of approximately 300 people, located between Beaver and Cedar City. He also happened to live next door to his grandfather, William Thomas Davenport, who had a farm with livestock, mostly cattle and sheep. William loved the livestock business and was in it for most of his adult life. David remembers how he dressed like a typical farmer, with bib overalls and boots. The only time he dressed up was on Sundays.

David often ended up hanging out with his grandfather and being, as he called it, his “cheap farmhand labor,” which he says are memories that he treasures to this day.

His grandfather would often be sitting at the large kitchen table, writing, and David would sometimes ask, “What are you doing, Grandpa?” William would answer, “Oh, just writing a poem.” “What are you writing about?” David would inquire. He

answered that he was writing about the good old days and life in general.

When his grandfather William passed away at the age of 92, there were 8 scrapbooks full of his poetry, which were distributed out amongst members of his family.

David’s mother was one of the lucky ones who received one of her father William’s scrapbooks. After he became an adult, she asked David if he would like to have it. He said he would but he had to admit it took him quite a few years to open it up. It wasn’t until a family reunion, ten years ago, that he finally sat down and read through it. He spent several hours

going through it and actually had a very hard time putting it down. “After reading it, I was captivated,” said David. “I’ve just got to share this!”

One of his cousins helped to contact all the other relatives who had gotten one of Grandpa’s scrapbooks, which they copied and then compiled all into one collection.

The Paragonah Poet was the nickname William had acquired amongst some of the folks in Paragonah and was also the book title that they ended up choosing for the collection of his work. His writings spanned from the 1940’s to the 1970’s. There were poems with titles such as “The Horse,” written in 1950, or “The Good Old Days,” written in that same time span. The following is an example of one his poems, about the Latter Day Saint pioneers.

THE PIONEERS

Those pioneers with cheerful hearts who walked and pulled the old handcarts, Some worked an oxen and a cow, and trudged along, no matter how. They waded through the snow so deep, with half enough to wear or eat. They trusted in our Father’s care, they knew He’d bring them safely there. Their shelter was the sky, you know, fierce blizzards from the north would blow. But still they kept the courage and faith, till Brigham said, “This is the place.”

Let’s not forget to kneel and pray, and thank the Lord each night and day That He saw fit to bring this band to Utah, to this favored land.

Photos courtesy of David Lamoreaux

David’s copy of the original scrapbook of William Davenport’s poetry.

David Lamoreaux holding a copy of The Paragonah Poet

5 Holiday Traditions from AROUND the WORLD

By Allison Beckert

Every December, lights twinkle across the world — from desert neighborhoods to mountain towns — as people gather to celebrate Christmas in their own special ways. While carols, nativity scenes, and family dinners may feel universal, many countries add their own joyful touch to the season. Here are five Christmas traditions that bring color, creativity, and Christlike joy from around the globe.

1 Japan’s KFC Christmas

Christmas isn’t a national holiday in Japan, but one 1970s marketing campaign changed everything. Kurisumasu ni wa Kentakkii, or “Kentucky for Christmas” turned fried chicken into a winter holiday must-have. Families place orders weeks in advance for a Christmas Eve meal from KFC, complete with sides and cake. What began as clever advertising has become a heartwarming reminder that any shared meal, however humble, can bring people together.

2 Germany’s Christmas Pyramid

In a charming combination of craft, faith, and lights, Weihnacht spyramiden are wooden candle carousels that spin from the heat of their own light. In the larger versions these creations can sometimes be several feet tall.

Across several tiers the “Christmas pyramid” displays tiny nativity scenes, angels, and shepherds. Originating in the Ore Mountains, these pyramids symbolize light overcoming darkness and draw the heart toward Christ. Their gentle motion captures what we all hope for at Christmas: peace, warmth, and a home filled with holy light.

3 Philippines’ Giant Lantern Festival

Each December in San Fernando, the “Christmas Capital of the Philippines”, artists create enormous glowing stars for the Ligligan Parul, or Giant Lantern Festival. Some lanterns reach twenty feet tall, crafted from steel, fiberglass, and thousands of colorful bulbs and look quite a lot like parade floats. Originally simple bamboo and paper stars, these dazzling displays now draw international crowds, celebrating the guiding light of the Star of Bethlehem and the joy it still brings to the world.

4 Sweden’s Yule Goat

Sweden’s famous Julbock, or Yule Goat, began as a symbol of strength and protection long before Santa Claus appeared. The most well-known of these, the towering straw Gävle Goat, watches over the town square each Advent, though mischievous fans have tried to “liberate” or burn it before the end of the festivities. The goat endures as a symbol of cheer, reminding us that traditions, like faith, can adapt and endure through centuries of change.

5 The Church’s Global Giving Machines

This global tradition is one you can participate in. The Church’s bright red Light the World Giving Machines invite passersby to give as the Savior did. Found in cities from Manila to Mexico City, these vending-style kiosks let donors “buy” meals, goats, or school supplies for those in need. Since 2017, millions of dollars in aid have flowed through them, proof that the true spirit of Christmas isn’t receiving, but reaching out.

Wherever you plan to spend the holidays this year, search out a Giving Machine location near you (there are many in the Phoenix area!) and make this part of your Christmas traditions.

By Mark Randall

One afternoon I fell asleep and was snoring in my recliner. Our cat, Socks, was asleep in the matching chair. Our daughter came to our house for a visit with her two year old. The toddler had never heard people snore. As her Mom entered the house, I heard the two-year exclaim, “Be quiet, Socks and grandpa are in their chairs, purring!”

Photo by Mariya Muschard from Pixabay Christmas reindeer.

Christmas Pyramid. Photo by LoggaWiggler from Pixabay

Lighting THE Wºrld ARIZONA DESERT GLOW CANDLES

By Barbie VanCott

is the season for candles! And we are blessed to have a candle manufacturer right here in the East Phoenix Valley. Celebrating five years this past October of lighting the local world, Arizona Desert Glow Candles creates lovely small-batch, hand-poured candles. Each candle has a unique scent that can bring warmth, joy, and connection to anywhere we gather.

The idea for the business began with a love for fragrance and creating special moments. It has grown into a creative family venture, celebrating togetherness, culture, and community. “Our mission is to create more than just candles,” explains candle maker Ruth DeGroff. “We aim to have craft experiences. From interactive self-serve candle boxes, to seasonal and culturally inspired collections. Each candle is made to bring people together. They can spark joy and help celebrate life’s little moments.”

Candle names and collections include Dia de Los Muertos, Spanish Candle Collection, Tropi-

cal, Citrusy, Fall Collections, and Winter Collection. “What makes us unique is that we use hand-poured soy wax with thoughtfully blended scents,” says,

DeGroff. “Our candle scents range from cozy cinnamon and pine to bright citrus and champagne.” Their playful and meaningful candles are wrapped in packaging with visually stunning designs. Every single detail in their business is made by them. Even the printing of their labels!

Family is at the heart of their business. The DeGroff children help with some of the fun tasks, from naming candles to testing scents. Ruth’s husband Jordon manufactures each candle batch. The family hosts local events by collaborating with small businesses. They have created the “Candles for a Cause” initiative to give back to the community and strive to make every one of their candles feel personal, intentional, and connected to the people who buy and enjoy them.

The DeGroff’s dream is to open a brick-and-

Continued on pg. 26

Self-Serve Candle Experience Box.

Jordan and Ruth DeGroff.

By Robin Finlinson

How many times are the words saint(s) and Christian(s) found in the King James Version of the Holy Bible? The answers are in the April, 1990 General Conference address by then-Elder Russell M. Nelson. Saint(s) is used in 98 verses—36 in the Old Testament and 62 in the New Testament. Christian(s) is used three times in the New Testament. (Acts 11:26; 26:28; 1 Peter 4:16)

For several thousand years, the Lord and His special witnesses have

Come Follow Me

This article supports the readings in the manual titled Come, Follow Me—For Home and Church for November-December, 2025, in Doctrine and Covenants Sections 124-138.

Wrestling To Understand

often called His covenant people Saints, reminding us that through Him we can become sanctified. (1 Cor. 1:12; Mosiah 3:19)

Christians might be a moniker given to the Saints by those in the city of Antioch who did not follow Christ (Acts 11:26)—similar to the moniker Mormons, given to the Saints in the 1830’s by people wanting to distinguish them from other followers of Christ. It is the right of the Lord to name His Church and His chosen covenant people, and it is His pattern to deliver

the names through His prophets. He gave the name Israel to the prophet Jacob and his posterity. (Gen. 32:28)

As the Lord gave Moses instructions for the Levite priests, He stated, “And they shall put my name upon the children of Israel; and I will bless them.” (Num. 6:27; see also Deut. 28:12; Mosiah 5:8-12; 26:18)

the restored authority of the Aaronic and Melchizedek Priesthoods. (Ex. 25:8; Hebrews 5:4-10; D&C 124:2842; JS-H 1:68-72) As with Aaron and his sons of the tribe of Levi, only some among today’s believers are given sacred priesthood responsibilities. With that privilege restored, the “perpetual” right to the Aaronic Priesthood was reinstated for Aaron’s descendants, and both priesthoods were bestowed upon chosen individuals of the tribe of Ephraim. (Gen. 48; Ex. 28:1; 29:9; D&C 107; 133:34) Why Ephraim? Because much of Ephraim would repent and accept the Lord’s assignments. (Hosea 14:8)

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Referring to the covenant people, Isaiah prophesied, “[T]hou shalt be called by a new name, which the mouth of the Lord shall name.” (Isa. 62:2,12) In New Testament times, perhaps surprisingly, the Lord gave one of His new names, even Jesus Christ, to His people, but He did not officially name His Church. Terms describing His disciples included “church of God,” “church of Christ,” “body of Christ,” “churches of the saints,” etc.

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One might say that Isaiah’s prophecy was not entirely fulfilled until April 26, 1838, eight years after the formal organization of the restored Church, and after modern-era disciples gave deliberation and ink to numerous iterations of a church name. The prophet Joseph Smith finally received this confirmation: “For thus shall my church be called in the last days, even The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints.” (D&C 115:4; see also 2 Chr. 7:14; 3 Nephi 27:3-8)

Latter-day Saints offer the fulness of Christ’s gospel and the crown of His “royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9; D&C 124:95) to all people. (Gen. 12:1-3; Gal. 3:27, 29) Like with the Levites anciently, a priesthood office holder’s unbroken line of authority—from himself, back to Christ, the King—is recorded today. (Neh. 7:61, 64; D&C 85:11-12)

The apostle Paul addressed letters to the Saints in various cities, exhorting them to have “no schism” and “no divisions.” (1 Cor. 1:10-13; 12:25-27) Regardless of the current number of Zion’s stakes and their unique names that pinpoint them geographically, all equally bear the Church’s official name, sustain the same leaders and teach from the same reference materials. (Eph. 2:19-20)

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The Lord wants His disciples to ponder and discuss before He provides definitive answers. He has us “wrestle” along with Him until we understand what is correct and humbly, but with dignity, allow His ways and words to “prevail.” (Gen. 32:24-30; plus footnotes) In His chosen name for the Church, He also beautifully elevates the undersheperds of His Father’s pasture.

Much good is happening through people of all faiths! Many are readying the world to receive Him. For those who carry the title of Saints, there are additional assignments. (1 Cor. 15:58)

Latter-day Saints preach repentance, baptize, and perform indispensable ordinances in the House of the Lord with

We are to “bear chastisement,” meaning correction, purification; build Zion; and defend the family and religious freedom. (D&C 115:56; 132:19-21; 134; 136:31) We offer the “stick of Joseph,” the Book of Mormon, to the world. (Ezek. 37:19) Saints will eventually welcome, receive the sacred records of, and abundantly bless, the Lost Tribes. (D&C 110:11; 133:26-34) And Saints who have passed on are teaching the gospel of Christ in the spirit world. (1 Pet. 4:6; D&C 138:29-37, 57)

REMEMBERING

The Miracles of Christ’s Birth

TRUTH:

In the pre-mortal world, we used free agency to trust and have faith in Christ.

TRUTH:

We knew God agreed to give His Son for us.

TRUTH:

Christ agreed.

TRUTH:

Christ was born to a virgin.

TRUTH:

John the Baptist was born to a woman too old to have a child.

So, against everything the world believed, God’s plan was and continues to be fulfilled. TRUTH.

President Dallin H. Oaks taught, “Many also made covenants with the Father concerning what they would do in mortality. In ways that have not been revealed, our actions in the spirit

world have influenced our circumstances in mortality…. Sometimes our needed growth is achieved better by suffering and adversity than by comfort and tranquility.” (April 2020 General Conference, The Great Plan)

God gives us this comforting promise about trials: “Endure them, for, lo, I am with thee, even unto the end of thy days” (D&C 24:8). He also promises, “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9).

In the December 23,2021 issue of Meridian Magazine, William Smart wrote an article which appears in his book, Messages for a Happier Life (Deseret Book, 1989). He shares interesting insight into three levels of Christmas

The Santa Claus Level: Where we eat too much, spend too much but have fun, and many people are thankful it is over for another year.

The Silent Night Level: The miracles around Christ’s birth. An important and sacred celebration. This level also means we can’t or shouldn’t keep Christ in the manager forever.

The Adult Christ Level: This is about the Christ who created worlds without number and willingly gave His life for all of us, including those who don’t believe in Him. This is an eternal level with love, peace and hope.

So, how does our understanding of Christmas, Christ’s truth of His miracles and mission, impact us? The miracles of Christ’s birth, John the Baptist’s mission, and the gifts Christ offers means we can trust God no matter what. We can choose to celebrate Christmas our entire life. Giving our

By Jaylene Garrett

will to God means ask and do what He wants each day. Can we see that God’s plan will always win? Are we more committed to His plan for us even if we can’t see it?

President Jeffrey R. Holland said, “Faith means trusting God in good times and bad, even if that includes some suffering until we see His arm revealed in our behalf” (“Waiting on the Lord,” Liahona, Nov. 2020, page 116).

Remembering those miraculous events helps us when we are dealing with our own personal trials. We know a world beyond our understanding exists for our future truth. If something feels impossible, remember “With God nothing shall be impossible” (Luke 1:37). Follow Mary’s example with her response, “Be it unto me according to thy word” (Luke 1:38). TRUTH!

By Allison Beckert

As the days grow shorter and evenings cool, Arizona seems to do the opposite of most places in Winter. We bloom and green up with the relief of cooler temperatures. Even in Arizona, there’s a softness to winter. As creation eases its pace, we often do the opposite. We push harder to meet holiday demands, to fill calendars, to keep up the speed of summer long after the season has changed.

From the beginning, God set rest into the rhythm of the world. On the seventh day, He rested. He was not weary, but showed us how divine order works. Creation itself bears this pattern: winter as a built-in season of stillness and slowing down. In that light, rest isn’t laziness or indulgence, it’s obedience. In resting, we honor

Your Mental Health

Mental Health and Winter Rest

the pattern God placed in nature and in our own souls.

The holiday season here strains at its seams. We feel the weight of shorter days, tighter schedules, and emotional charge of meeting expectations of celebration and tradition. Fatigue, depression, and anxiety often peak just as expectations do. Winter, though, offers a quiet invitation: to step back, to sleep deeply, to simplify. Modern research supports what scripture already teaches. Rest renews the mind and strengthens the spirit. When we allow ourselves time for unhurried moments, our hearts and minds have space to heal.

“Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10). Even when most of this season’s atmosphere is cultural, Winter’s stillness can be sacred. The slower pace and shorter days can draw

us toward quiet communion with God. That can be done by leaning into Sabbath rhythms, spending time in the temple, or answering Christ’s invitation: “Come unto me…and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28–30). In the calm of long winter evenings and short bright days, we can find not emptiness, but presence in God’s steady peace.

Rest doesn’t have to mean withdrawal. It can be lived in small, intentional ways:

Shorten evening commitments. Practice saying “No!” when needed.

Create family traditions of quiet reflection. Maybe reading scripture by the Christmas tree lights, or listening to sacred music together.

Go to bed earlier and let the long nights restore your energy.

Take winter walks, noticing the

unique beauty of the season where we live.

These gentle shifts help us realign our pace with heaven’s rhythm, making rest a holy practice rather than a luxury.

Just as fields lie fallow in winter so they can bear fruit in spring, our seasons of rest prepare us for what’s ahead. Doctrine and Covenants passages remind us that “there is a time and a season to every purpose.” Rest is far from an end, it’s a preparation. When we honor it, we create space for creativity, energy, and spiritual growth to flourish when spring returns.

Winter is a powerful gift to receive. In a busy world, let this quiet season remind you that slowing down is holy, healthy, and deeply needed. Rest is not weakness. It is worship.

Read Local: 2025 Arizona Beehive Magazine Book List

Presenting The Arizona Beehive Magazine list of books written by members of The Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter-Day Saints and published in 2025. Happy Reading!

Severed by Sandra Jarvis

Unexpected Disasters, The Dragon’s Realm by Betsy Love

Jesus’ Covenant People by Beulah Marti

Teddy by Sandra Sorensen Kindt

Flat Deception by Paige Edwards

Stones of Light by Dave Eaton

Men In Books Aren’t Better, Just What the Doctor Hired by Amanda Nelson & Lisa-Marie Potter

Ange’s Very Big Bag of Rocks by Rene Allen

Hinge Points in History by Rebecca Irvine

Fractured by Sara K. Anderson

Chromatic Book Three of the Color Theory Trilogy by Ashley Bustamante

An Engineer’s Guide to Kissing, The Fake Rebound Fling by Leslie Dacapo

The Darkness Realm: Book 5 of the Defenders of Radiance by Rebekah Carroll

Tight Ends and True Crime, Not That Impressed, Layla Meets Her Match by Ranee S. Clark

Where the Gospel and the 12 Steps Meet by Mira K Daniels

Mapleshire Curse of the Ravens by Kimberleigh Dixon

The Princesses’ Quest by K.H. Weyerman

I Know What UFO Did Last Summer, Night Living Toilet Paper by Kevin Garone

Walking with Giants by Lee A. Stoneridge

Heir of the Haloed Sun by H.C. Lane

Write Fearless, Edit Smart, Get Published by Lisa Mangum

The Extraction, The Middle Ground of Morena Court by Amy Martinse

The Viscount’s List, The Colonist’s Petition, Too Far to Sea by Lorin Grace

Two Flames by Holly D. Morgan

Seariana Book 1, Griffith Book 2, Nightcore Book 3 by Teya Peck

The Master of Wishes, The Captain’s Dowery, The Cousin Curse, The Centaur Choice by Christie Valentine Powell

The Berlin Girls, The Berlin Girl’s Choice Book 2, The Berlin Girl’s Promise Book 3, The Berlin Girl’s Resistance Book 4, The Berlin Runaway, Gentlemen of War Books 1, 2, 3, 4 by Leah Moyes

Chasing Tess by Annette Lyons

Betrayed in Taiwan by Sharolyn Richard

Mistaken Heart, Christmas & Cocoa Bold & Easy Cozy Holiday Coloring Book, Puppies & Play Bold & Easy 50 Dog Breeds Coloring Book, Pumpkins & Plaid Bold and Easy Fall Coloring Book, Frights & Friends Bold & Easy Spooky Cute Coloring Book, Easter & Egg Bold & Easy Jesus and Me Coloring Book, Summer & Sunshine Bold & Easy Colors of Fun Coloring Book, Velvet & Valentine Bold & Easy Visions of Love Coloring Book by Kaleena Shreeve

By Cindy R. Williams

Papa Range by Brad McBride

The Son & Sun: An Amazing Story of Light, An Easter Story of Light, A Christmas Story of Light, Powhatan’s Power by Ora Smith

Substitute for Love, Holiday Classroom Crush, by Lacey Chase

Name The Dark Terrors: Might Walk In The Night, But So Does She, by H.B. Stapley

The Totally Not Boring Book of Feelings by Jolie Taylor

A Long Time Ex-Boyfriend, Empowereds: A Post Apocalyptic, Dystopian Romance by Jeanette Rallison/ C.J. Hill

One Final Turn, The Knight’s School Code, The House of One Hundred Faces: And Other Spooky Poems & Short Stories by Ashley Weaver/Imogene Plum/W.M. Ashley

You’re Still the One, Because You Loved Me, How Sweet It Is, Can’t Help Falling In Love by Victorine E. Lieske

Deceived by Tyson Abaroa

Quantum Interstellar Sports League by J. Scott Savage

A New Leaf Issues A Call For Help

By Michael Hughes Chief Executive Officer, A New Leaf

Across Arizona, women and children experiencing domestic violence are facing a new and dangerous reality. Federal funding cuts have forced domestic violence programs, like A New Leaf, to scale back our services for those most in need. This is leaving fewer beds, fewer court advocates, and fewer safe places for those fleeing abuse.

Women and children who have al-

ready made the hardest, most dangerous decision—to leave their abuser— are now finding that the help they counted on may not be there. Shelters are full. Hotlines are busier than ever. Waitlists are growing. When safety depends on finding a bed tonight, not tomorrow, every shelter bed matters.

At A New Leaf, we are seeing these effects. Calls for help are rising even as resources shrink. The same story is playing out at agencies across

the Valley and throughout Arizona. Survivors who once found immediate refuge now face longer waits and fewer options. It is an unthinkable situation, yet it is becoming the norm. We urgently need the community to step forward to help address this crisis. When our neighbors are in danger, it falls to each of us to keep the promise of safety alive. You can help by spreading awareness, making a donation, offering support, and ensuring

survivors are not left alone. The safety of our homes defines the safety of our community. We cannot look away while shelters close and victims wait. Our shared responsibility is to make sure that every person, no matter their circumstance, has a safe place to turn.

If ever there was a moment to act, it is now.

Santa Express

Christmas Train Ride In Downtown Mesa

By Emily Jex Boyle

Some say imagination is where the magic begins. Each year, imaginative Arizonans bring magic to the state. During the holidays, many help bring the spirit of the season to the community. In Mesa, one particular local has her eye set on December for a large part of the year--Amy Church.

Having grown up in Mesa and a graduate from Mountain View High School, Amy says, “I remember Main Street and the lights that used to run up and down that road during the holidays, and of course the Mesa Temple lights and the Christmas concerts on the temple grounds.”

Nine years ago, imagination led to something new. In collaboration with Bob and Christi Worsley, and Kent Lyons, Amy was involved in the creation of a non-profit known as MURAL (Mesa Urban Renewal & Arts Lab.) Its vision is to help revitalize downtown Mesa.

In 2016, the light rail ended near the Mesa Temple grounds on Main Street. Christi Worsley says, “The initial concept was to help encourage light rail use as many Mesa residents hadn’t ever used it.” MURAL learned there was already a holiday themed train. With the support of Valley Metro, they were able to arrange for a free, local, holiday train experience which would begin at the Mesa Drive/Main Street light rail stop. The Santa Express, as it is now called, would be reminiscent of a well-known story of a train ride full of Christmas carols, a story read by the elves, treats, and one special visitor.

“I’m a single mom,” Amy explains, “I wasn’t always able to do those costly, beautiful things with my daughter to welcome the magic during the holidays. The thought of bringing a bit of extra, affordable, local magic, especially for parents in a similar scenario as mine, spurred me on. I wanted to help give them an opportunity to do something special

with their families for free.”

The first year, MURAL had two weeks to arrange everything. The event was publicized on Facebook and Instagram. Five volunteers, including Amy’s daughter, were elves on the train. Costumes and bells were ordered, beautiful train tickets were printed, and Trey Basha donated nearly two thousand cookies. Youth from Amy’s church congregation packaged the cookies.

The first night, the crowd came, some families in matching pajamas, standing in line for two hours, for the 20-minute Santa Express experience. “So many people came!” Amy remembers, “Miraculously the cookies lasted! It was special for everybody.”

The following year, the train rode again and Basha again donated thousands of cookies. Kent was a big proponent of including a Christmas market, having served a full-time mission in France and experienced them firsthand. The City of Mesa gave the permit and MURAL introduced the Mesa Christmas Market that year. Tragically in 2018, Kent Lyons died in a car accident at age 36. MURAL lost a key player in their organization. His loss was felt. “Kent was a bright light,” Christi says. With Kent gone and the Worsleys eventually moving out of state, it became a one-man show with Amy soldiering on.

Amy says, “Every year since [Kent’s] passing, I try to make the Christmas Market and the Santa Express better.” Recently, a bus arrived from Flagstaff specifically bringing people to the market. The concert series at the market now brings in local schools and groups to an outdoor stage that fills the market with music and entertainment. A s’mores station is offered. “All the events are life changing,” Amy explains, “Kids who volunteer as elves get outside

themselves. They become the ride, their self esteem grows and they find themselves.

Last year, 184 vendors applied to participate in the market. Vendors tell me they’ve never been to one like this, it feels like family here. It’s just magi-

Train ride in jammies!

Photos Courtesy of Amy Church

Santa Express volunteers (l to r): Amy Church, Cameron Burgoyne, Raelle Charlie, Lylah Adams, Corinne Boyle, Kimball Earl, Kimberly Earl, Rob Boyle

Santa Express Christmas Train

Continued from pg. 25

cal. People across the state are coming to downtown Mesa and having a positive experience.”

Renata Clo, spokesperson for Valley Metro says, “We are excited for the opportunity to be a part of the Santa Express again this year, to bring a little Christmas joy. We are proud to host this event each year. Our mission is to connect communities and enhance lives. To us, it’s more than connecting towns, this includes participating in local events that bring joy to the community.”

“Events are completely supported by donation,” Christi says, “the legwork to make these events happen, it’s all Amy. People come from all over the Phoenix area, close to ten thousand, for the free holiday ride and market. Christmas can transcend all of our differences into a magical experience.”

Events will take place on the evenings of December 12-14, 2025. For more information, visit mesasantaexpress.com or themesachristmasmarket.com

Gone Digital Continued from pg. 16

patients locally and from surrounding states. As a result, he was asked by colleagues to build websites for their dental practices, eventually creating infinitydentalweb.com. Hall incorporated in 2009, dedicating himself to dental internet marketing full time. “I recognized David’s experience and the resulting company he formed wrapped around such. Infinity Business Web applied that learning to my site.”

Infinity Business Web works with a variety of new and established businesses such as financial planners, e-commerce shops, gardeners, attorneys, carpenters, health care professionals, landscapers, and now magazines! “The first priority is helping a startup business getting established and starting to grow,” explains Hall.

“One of our first clients on the dental side came to us in 2009, not too long out of dental school. His wife said they were getting a new building and wanted to grow their practice. Now, 16 years later, we have helped them grow to have ten dentists and three locations.”

Once arizonabeehivemagazine. com pages were designed and a

layout was created, programmers took over to actually build the site. The magazine has unique website needs as current and past issues are made available for readers to consume. A blog wrapped around O’Brien’s “What’s The Buzz” column was added, as well as a self-serve events page where calendar items may be added by promoters for readers to consider attending. Other features are advertising and distribution information, and an About page that recounts the history of this nearly 50-year-old publication.

“This magazine has legacy,” explains O’Brien. “And I wanted to feature that on our new site.”

Along with The Arizona Beehive Magazine, Hall believes strongly in the role of faith in business. “I have a strong sense of help that I’ve received from promptings and guidance both in starting this business and at various points along the way. That does two things for me. First, I have a deep sense of gratitude for the divine help I have received. And second, I have faith that we’ll meet every other challenge that comes up.”

Visit Infinity Business Web at https://infinitybusinessweb.com/ Check out our new website at https://arizonabeehivemagazine.com/

Arizona Desert Glow Candles Continued from pg. 20

mortar space that supports their community vision. In the meantime, an interactive, self-serve candle experience box created from a reimagined greenhouse turned into a tiny brick and mortar is now operating on the family’s home driveway, located a block away from the Mesa Arizona Temple. Customers may choose and purchase their favorite candles and enjoy a hands-on memorable shopping experience. The box provides a fun and cozy concept, where the community can stop by, smell the candles, shop, and pay using the honor system.

“Every candle we create is more than a scent—it’s a memory, a moment, and a celebration of the people and places we love.” The DeGroff Family is truly helping us to light the world.

Stop by the Self-Serve Candle Experience Box after your Mesa Temple Lights evening. Visit arizonadesertglow.com or call 480-5532362 to purchase candles or to get directions to the Box.

For over 45 years, the Mesa Arizona Temple at 455 E. Main St. in Mesa has transformed its historic gardens into a dazzling display of Christmas spirit.

This year, from Friday, Nov. 28, through Tuesday, Dec. 30, the temple grounds will shine each evening from 5 pm to 10 pm with hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights. This beloved event is free and open to all.

Visitors can stroll through the surroundings, where 65-foot-tall palm trees and a variety of citrus trees, cacti, hedges, shrubs, and flowerbeds are adorned with vibrant lights, making this one of the Southwest’s largest Christmas displays. Enhancing the experience, 10 biblical vignettes are nestled among olive trees, telling the Christmas story. Highlights include Mary and Joseph journeying

to Bethlehem, an Italian nativity scene crowned with an elevated star of tens of thousands of lights, and three illuminated wise men with camels. Each vignette features a kiosk with a biblical description and QR codes linking to videos and additional information accessible via smartphone.

This cherished community tradition is made possible by thousands of community volunteers. The Mesa Arizona Temple, dedicated in 1927 by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, was Arizona’s first temple. Its 20-acre grounds, featuring diverse vegetation

MESA ARIZONA TEMPLE Christmas Lights 2025

and two stunning reflection pools, remain a landmark in the East Valley. During the Christmas season, the adjacent Mesa Temple Visitors’ Center at 455 E. Main St. hosts the International Nativity Exhibit, also free to the public. This exhibit showcases 200 unique nativity scenes from around the world, many handmade. Unusual materials include rice, cornhusks, vintage soda bottles, seeds and pods, stained glass, driftwood, gourds and crochet; all of which commemorate the Savior’s birth.

The exhibit runs concurrently with the Christmas lights, open daily from 5 pm to 10 pm, with additional daytime

hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 am to 1 pm.

Visitor Information:

Parking: Free parking is available nearby, or visitors can use Valley Metro’s Light Rail System, with a stop at Mesa Drive, a short walk from the temple grounds. Special needs parking is in the lot directly east of the north temple grounds on Hobson, with parking attendants available to assist.

Accessibility: Wide cement and gravel pathways accommodate strollers and wheelchairs.

Assistance: Hosts wearing red badges are on-site to help visitors. Come experience the Mesa Temple Christmas Lights and International Nativity Exhibit, and feel the spirit of Christmas throughout the holiday season! For more details, including FAQs, visit MesaTemple.org/Christmas/

Photos courtesy of Kary Ann Hoops and Mesa Visitors’ Center Communications Committee

Jennifer Wheeler - Media Specialist - Arizona Communication Council, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

School Choice Fair! Come to

Bring the whole family and explore the exciting world of learning at Mesa Public Schools! With 70+ schools on display, there’s something for everyone!

• Student performances

• Over 70 school booths representing all grade levels (Preschool, Elementary, Jr High and High School)

• Programs and student services

• Bring the whole family!

The clear bag protocol will be enforced

Holiday Magic in the East Valley

By Hillary Fevrier

As cool desert nights settle in and festive lights begin to twinkle, Arizona’s East Valley transforms into a landscape of celebration. From glowing boats to thousands of hand-lit candles in the desert, these events capture the wonder and warmth of the season.

Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade

Tempe Town Lake shimmers each December during the Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade, a free waterfront celebration that draws thousands of spectators. More than 50 boats, decked out in colorful lights and creative holiday themes, glide across the water while live entertainment and food vendors line the lakeshore. The evening ends with a spectacular fireworks finale reflected across the lake, creating one of the most picturesque holiday moments in Arizona.

• Location: Tempe Town Lake, Tempe, AZ

• Date & Time: Saturday, December 13, 2025 4–9 PM (parade at 6 PM)

• Cost: Free admission

• Website: tempetourism.com/events/fantasy-oflights-boat-parade

Fantasy of Lights Street Parade & Tree Lighting

The holidays begin in Downtown Tempe with the Fantasy of Lights Street Parade and Tree Lighting. The parade fills Mill Avenue with illuminated floats, marching bands, and local performers. After the parade, the city’s massive Christmas tree bursts into color during the official lighting ceremony, uniting the community in a moment of shared cheer.

• Location: Mill Avenue District, Tempe, AZ

• Date & Time: Saturday, November 29, 2025 4–8 PM (parade at 6 PM)

• Cost: Free admission

• Website: downtowntempe.com/events/openingnight-parade

Las Noches de las Luminarias

At the Desert Botanical Garden, Las Noches de las Luminarias transforms the Sonoran Desert into a glowing sanctuary of light and music. More than 8,000 hand-lit luminarias line the garden’s paths, illuminating cacti and trees while live musicians perform

Continued on pg. 30

Photo by Bhaumik Bheda, Tempe Tourism Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade.

Photo courtesy of Tempe Tourism

Fantasy of Lights Street Parade & Tree Lighting.

By Emily Jex Boyle

THE GOSPEL IN A WORD Friend

In preparing for this last issue of 2025, I’ve been thinking about where we’ve gone and what we’ve pondered here on the page--deep dives into words like worth, comprehend, abundant, prosper and endure. As I thought about which word could close out 2025, I thought it fitting to choose a word I feel suits President Russell M. Nelson.

Did you know the word friend traces its roots to Old English frēond and in Old High German friunt? In Old English frēon means to love and frēo is free. I feel like these two words exemplify key characteristics of a friend--someone who cares and who helps lighten our load, to break chains that may be binding us.

In the book of Acts in the New Testament both love (frēon) and freedom (frēo) are tied to an account where Paul’s visit to friends is mentioned. In chapter 27, he is a prisoner en route to Rome by boat. Some see relatable ties between the physical struggles of Paul’s journey and the spiritual storms we face in life. Paul’s account testifies of God’s presence even in the tumult. Early on in the journey, Julius the centurion allows Paul, a prisoner, to visit friends in Sidon. The scripture reads, “And Julius courteously entreated Paul, and gave him liberty to

go unto his friends to refresh himself.” (Acts 27:3)

In 2015, President Nelson received diplomatic recognition. He was designated an “Old Friend of China.” This award is given to foreigners who are recognized for their contribution to the country. How did he receive such an honor?

45 years ago, he introduced open-heart surgery to China. In 1980, he spent a month as a visiting professor at the Shandong University School of Medicine. Now yearly, surgeons at this major medical center perform 2,000 such operations.

In a 2016 article in the Liahona magazine, President Nelson shares the experience. In 1985, a year after he had been called to the Quorum of the Twelve, he writes, “One day I received an urgent request to go to China to perform open-heart surgery on that nation’s famous opera star, regarded throughout China as a national hero. I explained

that my full-time ecclesiastical responsibility prevented my coming, but the doctors in China pleaded with me to come at once to perform the life-saving operation.

I discussed the matter with my quorum president and the First Presidency. They felt impressed that, as a favor to the people of China, I should make the trip and perform the operation. That I did. Gratefully, the operation was a success! Incidentally, that was the last open-heart operation I ever performed. It was in Jinan, China, on March 4, 1985.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson in his essays once wrote, “When friendships are real, they are not glass

“When friendships are real, they are not glass threads or frost work, but the solidest things we can know.”

threads or frost work, but the solidest things we can know.”

How can we, in our ways, follow President Nelson’s example of solid, Christlike friendship?

Holiday Magic in the East Valley

Continued from pg. 29

throughout the evening. Guests sip warm drinks, admire the desert’s quiet beauty, and take in views of the Phoenix skyline glowing in the distance. It’s one of Arizona’s most enchanting and timeless holiday experiences.

• Location: Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ

• Dates: Select nights, Nov 28 – Dec 31, 2025 5:30–9:30 PM

• Cost: $44.95 adults | $16.95 youth (3–17) | Under 3 free

• Website: dbg.org/events/las-noches-de-lasluminarias

From Tempe’s festive waterfront to Mesa’s peaceful temple and the candlelit trails of the botanical garden, the East Valley shines with celebration this winter. Whether you come for reflection, joy, or pure holiday magic, these beloved traditions promise to make your winter bright.

Courtesy of Tamilisa Miner

Photo courtesy of Emily Boyle

A friend--someone who cares and who helps lighten our load.

Photo courtesy of Desert Botanical Garden Las Noches de las Luminarias.

What’s Cooking?

By The Arizona Beehive Magazine

CHICKEN WITH PEARS, CHUTNEY & LEEKS

Experience a wonderful medley of holiday flavors in this easy and delicious chicken dish. Flavors of pear, toasted walnuts and leeks add great aroma to the quick pan sauce. The tasty “secret” in the sauce is the chutney. You can use either the Major Grey Chutney or Caramelized Onion Chutney. Either one will add a bit of spice with a unique blend of sweet and sour flavors, and makes a great accompaniment to roasted meats and chicken. Serve this chicken dish topped with the pan sauce alongside a serving of healthy quinoa or wild rice and your favorite winter greens.

INGREDIENTS

■ 1 large leek, white and light green parts only thinly sliced

■ 4 tsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided

■ 4 large boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 1 ½ lbs.), trimmed (substitute chicken breasts if preferred)

■ ¾ tsp salt, divided

■ ½ tsp freshly ground pepper, divided

■ 2 large firm ripe pears, peeled (if you prefer) and diced

■ ¾ c reduced-sodium chicken broth, divided

■ 2 tsp cornstarch

■ 2 T Crosse & Blackwell’s Major Grey or Caramelized Onion Chutney

■ ¼ c chopped walnuts, toasted

■ 1 green onion, thinly sliced for garnish

Total Prep Time: 35 Minutes. Serves 4.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Place sliced leek in a colander; rinse and drain well.

2. Heat 2 teaspoons oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with ¼ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper, and cook until golden brown and no longer pink in the center, usually 4 to 5 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.

3. Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 2 teaspoons oil to the pan. Add the leek and cook, stirring, until beginning to brown and soften, about 2 minutes. Add pear and ¼ cup broth; simmer until the pear is soft and the broth is reduced, about 2 minutes.

4. Meanwhile, whisk the remaining ½ cup broth and cornstarch in a small bowl. Add the chutney to the pan and cook, stirring until blended. Stir in the cornstarch mixture. Taste for seasoning and if needed, add the remaining ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Bring to a boil, stirring, and cook until thickened. Return the chicken and any accumulated juices to the pan and turn to coat with sauce. Serve sprinkled with toasted walnuts and green onions.

By Grace O’Brien

The Ready Hive

Weathering the Storm

Your Sunny-Day Guide to Unpleasant Weather Prep

Hey there, prepared pals! Let’s talk about something we in Arizona know a little too well: weather that can’t make up its mind!

One minute it’s all sunshine and rainbows (literally), the next we’re watching monsoons flood the streets, dust storms swallow freeways, and lightning shows that would make Fourth of July jealous. But don’t worry—with a little prep, you can handle whatever Mother Nature throws your way, all while keeping that desert-cool vibe intact.

Step 1: Home Sweet (Dry & Safe) Home

When the skies open up, your home should be your sanctuary, not a splash zone.

Flood-Proofing 101:

• Clear those gutters and drains—because nobody wants an indoor swimming pool.

• Sandbag your doors (yes, even in the desert—monsoons are no joke!).

• Elevate your valuables in waterproof bins (think photo albums, important documents, and your stash of chocolate).

Lightning & Power Surges:

• Install surge protectors for your electronics (because Netflix during a storm is a necessity).

• Unplug devices when lightning strikes nearby (your Wi-Fi will thank you).

Step 2: Conquer the Concrete Jungle (Safely!)

Driving in a sudden downpour or dust storm? Let’s make sure you’re ready. Your Car Kit Should Include:

• A waterproof flashlight (with extra batteries, because darkness is overrated).

• Traction mats or kitty litter (for getting unstuck from muddy surprises).

• A charged power bank (so your phone stays alive for navigation and emergency calls).

Driving Smarts:

• “Turn Around, Don’t Drown”—never drive through flooded roads (your car is not a submarine).

• Pull over during dust storms (turn off lights so others don’t follow you into oblivion).

Step 3: Power Up Like a Pro When the grid goes down, you don’t have to.

Backup Power Options:

• Solar-powered chargers (Arizona sun to the rescue, even on cloudy days!).

• Portable power stations (for keeping phones, fans, and mini-fridges running).

• Battery-operated fans (because surviving a storm is one thing; surviving an Arizona summer without AC is another).

Bonus Tip: Keep a hand-crank radio handy for weather updates and emergency alerts.

Step 4: The “Oops, I’m Stuck” Kit Sometimes, despite our best efforts, things go sideways. Be ready!

Your Go-Bag Should Have:

• A change of clothes (wet jeans are the worst).

• Non-perishable snacks (granola bars, trail mix—nothing that melts).

• Basic first-aid supplies (because scrapes happen).

• A waterproof phone case (for documenting the adventure, obviously).

Final Thought: Start Small, Stay Smart

You don’t need to build an ark—just a plan. This month, grab a surge protector, toss a car emergency kit in your trunk, and maybe practice unplugging during the next thunderstorm.

by Lin Sue Flood

GATHER

Support Group for People With Mild Cognitive Impairment

Living with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) can be an isolating experience, but a new program from Hospice of the Valley offers a welcoming space for connection and support. GATHER is a peer-led group where individuals diagnosed with MCI can share their experiences, navigate emotions, and discover new coping strategies together.

“It’s very affirming. The group makes me feel like I’m not alone,” says Carol. “People who do not have MCI have no context—they don’t know what it’s like when you can’t think of words or remember things. It’s hard to explain, even to my best friends.”

GATHER provides a safe environment for members to lead their own discussions. Unlike traditional support groups, members are empowered to guide conversations toward topics that are most relevant to them. This novel format models successful programs in Europe.

Dementia Educator Kobie Chapman provides clinical guidance if there are medical questions about cognitive decline. She enjoys observing how members choose to focus on their strengths. “They know they are not the same as they used to be and they

want to learn how to continue living a life of meaning and purpose.”

Another participant, Harold, notes a positive impact on his daily life, saying, “I’m paying more attention to tools that can improve my daily habits... a main one is to get better rest at night.”

There is no cost to participate in GATHER. The group meets the first and third Wednesday of every month from

2-3 p.m., at Hospice of the Valley’s Dementia Care and Education Campus, 3811 N 44th St., Phoenix, AZ 85018.

For more information or to join, please call (602) 767-8700. Visit dementiacampus.org for more helpful resources.

Lin Sue Flood is Director of Community Engagement at Hospice of the Valley.

VALLEY TEMPLE SCHEDULES

Additional Information:

• Appointments for proxy ordinances are encouraged. Patrons without appointments are also welcome, but may be asked to wait for an opportunity to participate. To schedule or modify a proxy appointment, visit your temple’s information at https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/temples

• Patrons are encouraged to bring their own temple clothing.

• Ordinances for family names must be done in proper sequence—baptism, confirmation, Melchizedek Priesthood ordination (males), initiatory, endowment, and then sealing. Please allow sufficient time to perform all the ordinances you wish to complete during your visit. For additional help and information, please call the temple.

• Please contact the temple for more information or if you have special circumstances or needs.

• Temple websites can be found by searching churchofjesuschrist.org/temples

Gilbert Arizona Temple

3301 S. Greenfield Rd, Gilbert, AZ, 85297 (1) 480-822-5000

Services: Clothing rental available. No Cafeteria

Upcoming Closures 2025

Wednesday, November 26 (Limited Operations)

The Ready Hive

Continued from pg. 31

By monsoon season, you’ll be the calmest, coolest prepper on the block—ready to share tips (and maybe some sandbags) with your neighbors.

Stay dry, stay charged, and remember: even in a storm, you’ve got this!

Finding Hozho

Continued from pg. 15

the movie and a few posters and go to where the people are. I’ve screened my films in the bottom of the Grand Canyon with the Havasupai, from the Makah Nation located at the furthest northwestern point in the United States to the Mashantuquet Pequot near the Atlantic ocean, from Rocky Boy in northern Montana to my good

friends down south in Ysleta del Sur in El Paso, Texas.” Hamilton shared with a smile. “I get a real feel for how the movie is received. Is it working and how can we do better on the next one. Touring is probably my favorite part of the entire filmmaking process!” If interested in bringing “Finding Hozho” to your local theatre or community, please visit our website for further details at www.HoltHamilton. com

Thursday, November 27

Wednesday, December 24 - Thursday, December 25

Wednesday, December 31 Thursday, January 1, 2026

Mesa Arizona Temple

101 S. LeSueur, Mesa, AZ, 852014 (1) 480-833-1211

Services: Clothing rental available. No Cafeteria

Upcoming Closures 2025

Wednesday, November 26 - Thursday, November 27 Wednesday, December 24 - Thursday, December 25 Wednesday, December 31 (Limited Operations) Thursday, January 1, 2026

Phoenix Arizona Temple

5220 W. Pinnacle Peak Road, Phoenix, AZ 85310 (1) 623-474-9500

Services: No clothing or cafeteria

Upcoming Closures 2025

Monday, November 3 - Monday, November 17

Wednesday, November 26 - Thursday, November 27

Wednesday, December 24 - Thursday, December 25

Wednesday, December 31 (Limited Operations) Thursday, January 1, 2026

Distribution Centers

People with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) find comfort in a new kind of support group.