View On Magazine

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mesquite | moapa valley | arizona strip | southern utah complimentary issue

November 1 – December 31, 2016 Volume 9 – Issue 6 PUBLISHER Kathy Lee MANAGING EDITOR Kristen Williams CREATIVE DIRECTOR & MAGAZINE DESIGN Aloree Smith WRITERS Misty Amodt Karen L. Monsen Paul Benedict Judi Moreo Michelle Brooks Alexa V. Morgan Keith Buchhalter Laurie Nelson Barker Landon Cameron, DPM Paul Noe Brittany Dell Erin E. O’Brien, Ph.D. Laura L. Draskovich Kim Otero Donna Eads Charlene Paul Linda Faas Peggy Pope Denis Feehan Officer Quinn Averett, MPD Lyman Hafen Dianne Reed Jennifer Hammond-Moore Celece Seegmiller Helen Houston Joseph Smith Catherine King, APRN, CDE Debbi Swanson Patrick Rob Krieger Kimber Tuckfield Elspeth Kuta Mayor Maile L. Wilson Dawn McLain Vegas Food Nerd ADVERTISING SALES Kathy Lee ADVERTISING EMAIL ads@ViewOnMagazine.com SUPPORT STAFF Bert Kubica DISTRIBUTION View on Magazine Staff WEB DESIGN Trevor Didriksen PUBLISHED BY View On Magazine, Inc. 742 W. Pioneer Blvd, Suite D Mesquite, NV 89027 Office (702) 346-8439 Fax (702) 346-4955 GENERAL INQUIRIES info@ViewOnMagazine.com ON THE WEB ViewOnMagazine.com Facebook

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2016-2017 View On Magazine, Inc. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or part without the express written permission from the publisher, including all ads designed by the View On Magazine staff. All articles submitted by contributing writers are deemed correct at the time of publishing, View On Magazine, Inc. and/or any of its affiliates accept no responsibility for articles submitted with incorrect information.

Publisher

Letter from the Dear Readers,

As the famous song goes “It's the most wonderful time of the year.� It can be the most stressful, busiest, emotional, and over indulgent time as well. In the spirit of the holiday, we sincerely hope you take a moment or two to peruse these pages, and find something uplifting or informative to make it time well spent.

As you will see in this issue there is no shortage of events to attend or volunteer opportunities. While some of the events may not be in your current area, all are within a few hours drive. We hope you take advantage of all that our communities have to offer this time of year.

Also, this season is all about giving, so please try to remember those less fortunate and help in some way to make their holidays special.

We would like to thank all of our readers for embracing the many changes we have recently made to our publication as well as our website. We have been inundated with positive feedback and truly appreciate it. We encourage you to continue to share your ideas with us for future articles and events that you would like us to include.

Please remember to shop local this holiday season. Stop by and thank our advertisers for making this publication possible.

Please visit our website at www.ViewOnMagazine.com and join us on social media.

Joyous wishes for a wonderful holiday season!

Kathy Lee

Publisher

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frequent

CONTRIBUTORS

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Donna Eads and her husband moved to Mesquite in 2010 from Palm Desert, CA and love the small town atmosphere. Her writing experience extends from high school and college newspapers to professional manuals as a critical care nurse. Her passion for tennis is evident in her frequent articles for View On Magazine.

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Paul “Dr. Q� Noe has been in the nursery industry for over 50 years, with experience in retail and wholesale sales as well as landscaping, plant maintenance and growing experience. Paul has lived in Southern Nevada for 34 years. He became a California Certified Nurseryman in 1968 and a Certified Horticulture Advisor in 1993 by the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension Service.

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Jennifer Hammond-Moore is a certified IIN Health Coach, the owner of Foodies4Fitness and a Crossfit Level 1 Trainer. After spending her 30s being unhealthy and sick, she decided to take back control of her health. Jennifer has spent the last eight years learning what it takes for her to live her version of a healthy life and finding ways to help others do the same. She can be reached at jenahammond@gmail.com, www.facebook.com/ foodies4fitness, or (435) 703-3432.

frequent CONTRIBUTORS V

Helen Houston is the owner of Hues & Vues – Inspired Walls and Windows.

Helen also owns a new business, Staging Spaces – Designing Your Home to Sell. She holds certifications as a Drapery and Design Professional, Certified Staging Professional and Certified Color Consultant. She has been a contributing writer for View on Magazine for the past six years. Her creative writing features articles on home fashion, home staging, and entertaining. Helen is a published author in several national design and trade magazines. She can be reached at helen@huesandvues.com or helen@stagingspaces.biz.

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Doug Lesko was a Head Golf Professional and Assistant General Manager at a semi-private club in Florida.

He left golf to work in the “real world” for 10 years but hated it and had to get back into the golf business somehow. He now works at Ready Golf and Gear in Mesquite and is a regular contributor at www.thegolfchick.com.

Find him at the store, on a golf course, or reach him at doug@thegolfchick.com and on twitter @protipsgolf.

Rob Krieger is a 20 year PGA Member & former Director of Golf in Mesquite & Greensboro, NC. He is currently the Director of Instruction at both his own Red Rock Golf Center in St. George and the Southgate Golf Club and is experienced in teaching all skill levels from beginners to low handicappers. Rob has been writing for us since 2010. For more information on help with your game check out his website www.stgeorgegolflessons.com or to schedule a lesson, email him at Rob@sgugolf.com.

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Karen L. Monsen is a freelance writer who lives in St. George, Utah.

She covers outdoor topics, nature, science, research, and human impacts. She taught French and Social Studies in public schools, served as a technical training coordinator, and designed and delivered business and technical writing seminars for corporate clients.

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Alexa V. Morgan has been working as a freelance journalist in southern Utah since 2011. Her work has appeared in Utah Business, Outdoor Sports Guide, and 15 Bytes, among other publications. In her spare time, she enjoys photography, tennis, and her adorable pets. She can be reached at alexavmorgan@gmail.com.

Elspeth Kuta is the Virgin Valley Heritage Museum Coordinator, where it is her privilege to share with the community and visitors the local history of Mesquite and the surrounding areas. She and the Museum strive to bring history to life, and preserve and protect the local tales of yore. We’re pleased to have her as a regular contributor.

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frequent CONTRIBUTORS V

Laurie Nelson-Barker is the owner of Formatian Fitness and Travel Training. She earned a Master’s degree in Health, Physical Education and Recreation and is a Certified Personal Trainer. Laurie has enjoyed over 30 years of conducting fitness training and classes. Email or call her at brtrainers@gmail.com or (435) 574-9362. Visit her website: www.formatianfitness.com.

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Erin O’Brien, Ph.D. is an Associate Professor of Biology at Dixie State University and the mother of a kindergartner. She is involved with several science, technology, engineering and math outreach programs for local students in the hope of exciting them about careers in the fields and better preparing them for college.

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Dianne Reid

Charlene Paul is a freelance writer, proofreader, and owner of All the WRITE Wordz. She is pleased to call the southwest desert her home. She covers inspirational, instructional, educational, and religious topics.

She can be reached at (702) 375-4216. Website: allthewritewordz.com.

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is the Owner and Manager of Hole-InOne Pet Products, a new pet store currently operating online. She is returning to the USA after living in Sydney, Australia, for the past 21 years. She has over 10 years experience in the pet industry, including providing reports to the American Consulate, Better Homes & Gardens, and Sydney Morning Herald. She is excited to be contributing to our magazine with her knowledge of pets and their people’s needs. She can be reached at Dianne@HIOPets.com.

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Dawn McLain is the Owner and President of Write It Up!, a small, full-service advertising agency based in St. George. Over the past 20 years, the firm has grown to include comprehensive PR and marketing services as well as media buys, blogging, corporate facilitation and much more. To get in touch with Dawn, email her at dawn@writeituponline.com.

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Celece Seegmiller is the owner of The Travel Connection, located at 1373 East 170 South in St. George. Travel is her passion and she’s spent the past 24 years planning dream vacations around the world. Her favorite vacation is the South Pacific with her “toes in the sand.” Reach her at (435) 628-3636 or celece@stgeorgetravel.com.

Message from the Mayor

Cedar City free event is now in its second decade, delighting children and families with dozens of floats, giant helium balloons, marching bands and costumed characters.

The Storybook Cavalcade is the largest parade of its kind in the intermountain region.

Next up is the Cedar Paiute Band’s Thanksgiving Pow-Wow on November 25-26. These gatherings always include dancers with their colorful attire in celebration of the ancient Paiute culture of this region. This Pow-Wow is to express thanks for our blessings and is a unique Thanksgiving event.

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am grateful to be asked to write a few words about the great holiday season we enjoy here in Cedar City. I realize I am biased, but I believe that we have the very best winter celebrations anywhere.

Of course, our community is known as the “Festival City!” Late autumn and early winter in Cedar is absolutely breathtaking.

With our clear blue skies, crisp and clean air, and moderate winter temperatures, the setting is perfect for the many activities winter has to offer. When you add the most beautiful fall leaves anywhere, and the later sparkling white snow against our “red hill,” Cedar City becomes the perfect backdrop for the many festivities of the holiday season.

First off in our annual holiday line-up of activities is the Storybook Cavalcade Holiday Parade down Cedar City’s historic Main Street on November 12th. This

The same weekend, the Festival of Trees will be held at the Frontier Homestead State Park Museum. This is a chance to bid on, or just enjoy, the beautiful trees and take part in the activities reminding us of our southern Utah pioneer culture.

This is just one of many Christmas-themed activities at the Frontier Homestead. Also held there is the Homestead Christmas Market, featuring goods created by local artists and craftsman. This takes place December 2-3. Then, “Christmas at the Homestead” takes place December 6-10, with live performances, music, hands-on activities, crafts, lights, and trees, and a visit from the “big guy in red.”

December 11 this year, the Cedar City Creche Festival will be held at the Canyon View LDS Stake Center. This free event features nativities from around the world and the music of choirs and ensembles to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.

Finally, on December 11-12, we have my absolute favorite, the 76th annual presentation of Handel’s Messiah by the accomplished Orchestra of Southern Utah.

This performance is free and always aweinspiring.

Another fun way to prepare for the holidays is simply to bundle up and take a walk down our quaint and beautiful Main Street, with its incomparable holiday lighting. I love the “Mayor’s Park” on the corner of Main Street and Center, which is decorated with a lighted tree and features an empty sled, perfect for photo ops for the kids – or young-hearted adults! A walk of just a few blocks will take you past the old-fashioned store fronts and a variety of great restaurants to the Main Street Park, where more fantastical Christmas lights are on display.

Cedar City is a great place to live and visit any time of the year, but during the holidays it is outstanding. I feel truly fortunate to make this place my home, and I hope everyone who reads this article will come visit and experience the holidays in Cedar City, Utah.

For more information on these activities, go www.scenicsouthernutah.com/events/ Happy holidays,

Mayor Maile L. Wilson

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Contents

FEATURES

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12 12 Tuacahn 92

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view on INSPIRATION Refrigerator Pictures

Christmas in the Canyon

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24 view on DIY 98

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Featured Contributor Dave Amodt The Man Behind the Camera Christmas Crafts & Gifts

Contents

14 TRAVEL 22 NONPROFIT 28 DESIGN 30 OUTDOORS 36 ENERGY 40 EDUCATION 46 PETS 50 FITNESS 56 GOLF 64 GARDENING 68 THE ARTS 74 BUSINESS 76 SEASONAL RECIPES 84 DEFENSE 106 STRONG WOMEN

VIEW ON

Strong Women of Moapa Valley Joan Rainey Day

Top 6 Christmas Gifts for Travelers

St. George Children's Museum

Christmas Wreaths A Home Decorating Tradition Steeped in Rich History

Not-So-Silent Nights, Soundscapes, & Acoustic Monitoring

10 Energy Saving Tips for the Holiday Season

Alternative Spring Breaks Make a Difference

Merry Petsmas

Keeping Fit Through the Holidays

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You Want to Play Golf Where?

Colorful Holiday Plants & How to Care for Them

Arté Gallery

Katering Koncepts, Inc. Catering to Your Every Event Need

Holiday Recipes

'Tis Always the Season for Safety

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Why I Love Mesquite W

hen I moved to Mesquite in 2007, it was the beginning of a whole new chapter in my life. I had relocated from Pennsylvania to Las Vegas in 2002, and enjoyed my adventure there during the rising real estate market, which happened to be the impetus for my move to Mesquite with the opening of Sun City.

It was all a very exciting time. I quickly discovered a wonderful mellowness to the community after the fast pace of Las Vegas, and how easy it was to develop lasting friendships. The many people who have transplanted here, not unlike myself, and have been residents for a few years, have all brought such remarkable and outstanding enthusiasm and inspiration. And I have to add that the unexpected bonus of meeting my life partner has certainly made it a worthwhile move.

Since meeting Charlie Cox, we have experienced exploring the area on numerous ATV rides, which has been truly eye opening. Seeing Zion, Bryce, Brian Head, Moab, Duck Creek, Panguitch Lake, Sand Hollow, and numerous other incredible places has been fantastic.

We've made a home here in Mesquite with great friends, Rotarians, and business associates. All have made living in Mesquite extremely rewarding.

Why I Love Cedar Cit y ~ Maddy Wilcox

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merica is truly an amazing country with a myriad of interesting people, fascinating cultures, and extraordinary towns. Each community has its own characteristics that make it unique. The same holds true for the place I call home – Cedar City, Utah.

Quality of life is a significant determinant in choosing where one will reside. Finding that special place with the right culture, community spirit, activities, and amenities to make your life fulfilling is essential. For me, Cedar City has all of this. And more. I call it “authentically altruistic.”

Abounding in stunning scenery, intriguing natural formations, clean skies, numerous recreational activities, and festivals galore, Cedar City is a treasure. But what really sets this community apart are the marvelous people that dwell here. The people of Cedar City genuinely care about one another and strive to have a positive impact on the lives of others. Whether it’s coming together to put on an event, help clean-up downtown, or looking for ways to solve intergenerational poverty, the people of Cedar City work together to make a difference.

Undoubtedly there are good people all across this great land and beyond, however, Cedar City is a rare gem as the people here wholeheartedly endeavor to lift one another. Cedar City is a community with a passion for life, but more importantly, we value people.

This is why I have chosen to live in Cedar City. ~ Chris McCormick

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Why I Love Hurricane I

love hurricane. And believe me, I have had plenty of occasions to explain why. It’s a long story that started when I arrived in town on a Sunday morning in 1978, fresh from Ventura and raised in San Diego – a California girl through and through. As church got out that day, we suddenly had a crowd arrive who had gone home, changed clothes, and came back to help us unload. One dear lady insisted we leave the lifting to the men and took me and the kids home for a meal. No one asked what religion we were, but we had a lot of other great conversations before everything was in the house. At first, the slow, relaxed attitudes made me crazy. The long, friendly chats in the grocery lines were hard to take after the rush-rush of my California upbringing. For 10 years my children and I basked in the fresh air and freedom of this cozy, casual, small town.

I was a teacher in a small California town and again later in Oregon. I celebrated the new millennium by moving back to Hurricane and was often asked why I moved back. Well, although it has really grown, there is still a neighborliness that the other small towns didn’t have. Everywhere I go I bump into friendly faces. In spite of all the growth, there is a consistency – people like it here and stick around. I not only run into children I knew 30 years ago, but find myself teaching their children. There is a sense of caring. Three of my grandchildren have come to live with me for one reason – they love to go to school here. They’ve all felt that the teachers were concerned and helpful and the kids were kinder than they had experienced in other towns. In addition, with all its growth, there are so many local businesses, I find I seldom leave town to shop. Just about everything you need is right here, surrounded by the most beautiful landscapes you’ll ever hope to see, swim, camp, or hike.

Why IMoapa LoveValley

Finally, after spending a long, crazy-fun weekend in San Diego for my high school reunion, I am ever so grateful for this relaxing, amazing town I call home. ~ Karen-Jane

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moved here from the Las Vegas area almost four years ago and from the moment we moved into our home, neighbors began to stop by and introduce themselves. This is why I immediately knew we were in the right place. Since then it has only continued to get better. This community takes care of and helps one another like no other community I have ever seen.

Moapa Valley is a beautiful country community with lush green pastures and beautiful views. We also have quite a few attractions for a smaller community, including Logandale Trails, Valley of Fire, Lake Mead State Park, and the annual Clark County Fair and Rodeo.

One of the best things I like as a business owner in Moapa Valley is the fact that residents shop and buy local. We opened our business here a couple years ago and I am just amazed at the support we get from our perpetual community as well as our returning snowbirds every fall. We are thankful and appreciate the local support. Moapa Valley Nevada is truly an oasis just outside of the big city they call Fabulous Las Vegas. ~ Vernon Lytle

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view on INSPIRATION

by Charlene Paul hen my kids were in grade school, one of the best times of the day was when they got home with school treasures – anything from pebbles and sticks gathered while walking, to tests marked with a big red good grade at the top. From the latest book order to the sign-up sheet for cookie dough or wrapping paper sales. Yep, that first step through the front door was something I looked forward to.

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One day when my oldest son came home from first grade, he happily showed me his finished art project. The squiggly lines and patterns were scribbled with every color in the crayon box.

The circles weren’t very round and there were dots everywhere. I will never forget his look of excitement as he waved that paper in front of me and excitedly asked, “How do you like it, Momma?”

Easy answer. “I like it very much,” I gushed.

“What do you think it is, Momma?”

Well, anyone could see it was a family of Tyrannosaurus Rexes with a couple of Brontosaurus uncles and Ichthyosaurus aunts and cousins.

“It is the best picture of a dinosaur herd I have ever seen!” I replied.

My smile was met with a look of sheer and utter disappointment. I was confused. I was so sure it was a page full of dinosaurs. He told me to guess again, but I am no dummy. One really bad guess was all I had in me.

“Momma’s eyes are a little tired right now, so would you please describe it for me?”

His face perked up as he began his description.

Whew, disaster averted.

“Well,” he said, “Teacher told us to draw

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our favorite things so I drew a picture of our family. See, there’s Dallas and Adam and Daddy and you, and there’s me.”

He was so proud. How silly of me. I stopped to consider just how we all looked in his little first grade eyes, but then let it go.

He was so pleased with himself as he explained each and every line. When he was finished describing our family, I asked if I could hang his picture on the refrigerator so everyone could see it. He told me no; he wanted to hang it there himself. So that picture hung in its rightful spot until the next masterpiece took its place. As the years passed, each child brought home refrigerator pictures that brightened our days.

It wasn’t the pictures themselves that brought the joy and satisfaction. No, that was just a small part of it. The joy came from being able to acknowledge something they had done to the best of their ability. And the satisfaction came from being able to compliment them on a job well done.

The days when I feel the most joy are the days when I know I’ve done something to bring joy to the life of another, or when I have been generous with pats on the back. Kind of like the feelings those refrigerator pictures instilled.

There are times, however, when I let an opportunity to congratulate or praise or make a positive comment to someone pass by without a word. I may think how nice a woman’s hair looks or how well-behaved her children are. I may appreciate the store greeter’s smile and words of welcome. I may notice a simple act of kindness. But instead of taking a quick moment to share my admiration or gratitude, I allow the thought to get mixed up with the rest of the random thoughts running through my head.

Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a "Like" button that would allow us

to express appreciation with a simple keystroke? Or maybe one of those "That was Easy" buttons that said something like, "That was Nice?" That way we would never have to stop what we’re doing or thinking to offer a compliment. But that isn’t how life is.

Nope. It takes effort to lighten burdens and to lift up weary heads.

Everyone needs sincere and honest praise. And everyone needs to give sincere and honest praise. Everyone needs refrigerator picture moments.

I believe this little adjustment in our lives could actually change the world. Hear me out. Freely offering constructive criticism and being brutally honest has changed our world. Think about it. Negativity in all its forms runs rampant and unchecked in our society today, and it breeds more and more negativity until being cruel and uncaring has become the norm.

What if we replaced some of that constructive criticism for sincere praise? What if honesty was a little less brutal? I’m not talking about trophies for everyone or phony accolades. I’m suggesting that we take a moment to see that what we think is a herd of dinosaurs just might be something different altogether.

Maybe the screaming baby in the cart in front of us is cutting teeth and her gums are tender and sore. Maybe the grumpy old man at the counter just lost his wife of fifty years and is sadder than he can say. Maybe the guy who passed us doing ninety on the freeway is rushing to the hospital because his wife is about to give birth to their tiny twin daughters.

Earl Nightingale said, “. . . you become what you think about all day long.” If negative thoughts permeate our daily thoughts, darkness will cloud our vision. But if we put more effort into finding the good in life, light will replace the darkness and our tiny corner of the world will change.

think about giving and receiving refrigerator pictures. I promise it will change how you view your world.

Remember the treasures? The pebbles and sticks. The good grade. The book club. Remember being so excited about showing your good works? Remember? This wonderful holiday season,

From our family to yours, here’s wishing you the Happiest of Thanksgivings, there Merriest of Christmases, the Happiest of New Years, and the gloriousness of all your other special days.V

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view on STRONG WOMEN

Strong Women of Moapa Valley using many mediums, an author, avid horsewoman, and ATV enthusiast. Art is her center, and she has pursued her love of nature and the outdoors by visiting unique, sometimes exotic, places, and becoming one with her surroundings.

She has kayaked the San Juan Islands, Tierra del Fuego, and the Amazon River.

She's explored Machu Picchu in Peru, the Galapagos Islands off of South America, and the wonders of Australia and New Zealand.

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oan is a local artist and has lived the last 16 years in Moapa Valley, Overton, Nevada. Her colorful murals, with natural landscapes and wildlife, grace southern Nevada, Hawaii, and California businesses and homes. You can view public murals in Mesquite (Golden West Restaurant & Casino), Overton, and Moapa (Sugar's Home Plate, Muddy River Bar & Grill, Roos 'N More Zoo).

She has published two state park trail guides, one covering the Valley of Fire and the second containing trail guides of eight eastern Nevada state parks. She has also published an off-road trail guide for southeast Nevada and a plant guide featuring plants and flowers of the Lake Mead and Valley of Fire region. These guides can be found at the Valley of Fire visitors center, the Mesquite Chamber of Commerce, and some local businesses.

Joan's path in life has been varied and interesting. She's an amazing artist

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She's traveled the United States promoting her wildlife jewelry business. Her jewelry can be found in state parks, natural history museums and retail resort outlets across the country. Years past, Joan worked as an instructor and guide in back country excursions in Mammoth, California. She has worked the past four summers as a trail guide and ranch hand in Utah.

This year, Joan accepted a position as a Site Monitor for Partners in Conservation (PIC) in Logandale Trails, providing assistance, monitoring the trails, and educating the public. She has created designs for promotional and marketing materials for PIC and a current project is creating a coloring book containing plants and wildlife of the area. This job was made for Joan as she loves the outdoors and sharing her knowledge with people.

She has volunteered many hours to non-profit organizations: Nevada Rock Art Foundation, mapping rock art for preservation and research; as a Water Safety volunteer on Lake Mead for the National Park Service, providing visitor assistance and search and rescue. Others include the Lost City Museum, Roos 'N More Zoo, Moapa Valley Revitalization Project, and as a Site Steward, monitoring

Joan Rainey Day archaeological sites and reporting back to designated agencies.

Joan also works as a substitute Teacher's Assistant with Clark County School District, working with many special needs students. She has reached children through art, breaking barriers in learning, and making emotional connections that have a positive lifetime impact.

Joan Rainey Day attended Mills College where she majored in zoology with a

minor in botany. She also attended Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, where she studied biology and worked as a biological illustrator and wildlife artist, and has a wealth of knowledge about biology, plants, and animals.

That understanding has been reinterpreted in her artwork.

Joan's dedication to art, love of nature, and drive to preserve our natural resources, culture, and history for future

generations make her the perfect choice to feature as a “Strong Woman of Moapa Valley.� Like us, you would be proud to call her your friend.V

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“Festival of Lights” and “Lights for Love” F

by Kimber Tuckfield

ounded in 2014, HolidayandEventLighting.com emerged from an interior remodeling business that we had to diversify due to the economy. Since then, my husband Robert and I have spread Christmas cheer in the form of holiday light installations to hundreds of happy customers. Our kids get involved, and by creating that holiday magic for others, we are immersed in the Christmas spirit ourselves. Installing Christmas lights around the homes and businesses of the local communities creates a special feeling and atmosphere that is unique to the holiday season, and which the Tuckfield family has thoroughly enjoyed. And that is exactly why we initiated the “Festival of Lights,” and “Lights for Love,” – to spread and share that Christmas cheer with our friends and clients in the Washington, Iron, and Clark Counties.

Registration runs November 1 – December 15, and is fast, free, and easy. Simply go to our website at HolidayandEventLighting. com, and follow the prompts to register your home, business, or organization in the 2016 Festival of Lights. Categories will include Residential, Commercial, Religious, Non-Profit, and Municipal.

Once registered, the addresses of all participants will appear on the website, organized by the county they are located in, for the general public to visit and enjoy. Then from December 15 – December 20, the public is invited to log back onto the website, and vote for their favorite Christmas light display. The participants

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receiving the most votes in each category will receive a 1st place prize, and featured recognition on HolidayandEventLighting.com.

As fun as this all sounds, the best part of the Festival of Lights is the culminating event, “Lights for Love.” Each year, we choose someone who we know wants to have Christmas lights, but for one reason or another is not able to, and we provide and install the lights for free. We try to choose a family with children if possible. This year as part of The Festival of Lights, we are inviting the public to help us find a deserving recipient by submitting nominations on our Facebook page at Holiday and Event Lighting, along with a description of why that nominee should be chosen. After reviewing all of the nominees throughout the season, we will narrow it down to three finalists, and the public will vote for which family or individual will receive the free Christmas lights. V For more information on the Festival of Lights or Lights for Love, call (435) 632-3187, email holidayandeventlighting@gmail.com, or visit HolidayandEventLighting.com.

Robert and Kimber Tuckfield reside in St. George with their seven children: Sadie, Trey, Callie, Nathan, Paige, Tessa, and Tustin.

NOT UNCHARTED. JUST UNSPOILED. Nestled amidst an array of state parks, national parks, and national monuments, Kanab and surrounding Kane County is a magical land filled with an innumerable combination of world-famous landmarks and stunning spaces that are still largely unexplored. And the best part? It’s spectacular any time of the year.

Plan to make Kanab your basecamp for Southern Utah adventure at VisitSouthernUtah.com

DISTANCE from Kanab

DISTANCE from Kanab

Zion national park

40 miles (64 kM)

Salt lake city Airport

317 miles (510 km)

Bryce canyon nATIONAL PARK

77 miles (124 kM)

las vegas airport

209 miles (336 kM)

grand canyon north rim

78 miles (126 kM)

phoenix airport

350 miles (563 kM)

coral pink sand dunes

23 miles (37 km)

Grand staircase-escalante national monument Lake Powell/glen canyon rec area

5 miles (8 km) 73 miles (117 km)

Golf Fore Kids 2016 12th Annual Event

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f all the wonderful charity golf events held in Mesquite, possibly one of the most anticipated is the annual

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Golf Fore Kids Tournament. Every year golfers assemble at four local courses and bring toys, bikes, balls, scooters, dolls, and art supplies to donate to local children. Trailers are filled to the brim, Santa’s helpers work overtime, and because of the generosity of our local citizens, hundreds of kids will smile a little brighter this Christmas season.

Hole sponsorships are available for $50 for one course or $150 for all four courses.

The individual or company name and any other message requested will be printed on a sign and posted on a tee box for all golfers to see. And like everything else, 100% of the funds go directly to the kids. If you wish to sign up for a sponsorship you can do so online by going to www.golfforekidsnv.org or emailing mindee@golffalcon.com.

This year marks the 12th Annual Golf Fore Kids Event. As usual, Falcon Ridge, Palms, Canyons, and Conestoga golf courses have graciously donated their courses for the day. Golfers will tee off at 9 am, then be treated to lunch afterwards at the CasaBlanca event tent. There will be prizes for closest to the pins, winning teams, and a large raffle that never disappoints.

If you wish to donate to the raffle, luncheon, or goodie bags (which are given to 550 golfers), please email mindee@golffalcon.com. Anything is appreciated and you will be well recognized for your contribution.

Tee time reservations will only be taken online. If you wish to play in the event you can sign up by going to golfforekidsnv.org.

The site opened October 1st and will fill up quickly, so don’t wait too long to reserve

your spot. You can make your course selection, but it is on a first come – first served basis.

Thank you to all the wonderful people who have made this event a success for a dozen years! Golf Fore Kids has raised over $400,000 in cash and toys for local children in our community. What started as a small tournament at one course has grown into a huge event with 550 golfers, dozens of volunteers, trailers full of toys, and hundreds of happy children. Thank you for your continued generosity and let’s make this the best year ever! V

Tournament Date: Thursday December 8, 2016 9:00 am shotgun Golf Locations: Falcon Ridge, Palms, Canyons & Conestoga Golf Courses Lunch Location: CasaBlanca Event Tent Entry Fee: Unwrapped, new toy(s) - $50 minimum Hole Sponsorship: $50 for one course or $150 for all 4 courses sign up at www.golfforekidsnv.org

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Festive Traditions Season's Greetings from The Virgin Valley Heritage Museum

by Elspeth Kuta, Heritage Museum Coordinator

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s we prepare for the festive season, let me share what the early settlers of this area did to celebrate. In spite of hard times, the people of the Virgin Valley and Arizona Strip celebrated the season with parties, box lunches, and a dance to which everyone was invited.

Sleeping babies were bundled in blankets and put next to the band that played all night.

Stockings were hung in anticipation of Santa Claus’ visit. In the morning there would be one small toy, a piece of fruit, and homemade candy. Trees were decorated with popcorn strings and homemade decorations. Pageants were performed and there was Christmas morning caroling in the streets followed by huge outdoor family dinners. There were horse races, baseball games between the married and the unmarried, and the sporting events concluded in a tug of war over “the Ditch,” an irrigation ditch that ran through town. The celebration lasted for two weeks – from the week before Christmas through the week after.

There are many traditions that mark the season which vary from country to country and place to place. I grew up in New Zealand with Father Christmas, and the family get together on Christmas Eve that included a dinner of roasted lamb with mint sauce and all the trimmings, followed

by Grandma's famous steam pudding with coins in it – eaten with extra care. When

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we found a coin in our pudding we dutifully returned it to Grandma so it could be used in the following year’s steam pudding.

One thing Grandma bought from her homeland (Scotland) to New Zealand was the yule log. So there we were, Christmas Eve in the middle of summer, gazing into a roaring fire. The flames were mesmerising, the heat not so much, but it made Grandma happy. We knew after church services the next day we would be heading to the beach with leftovers.

For many years, the City of Mesquite has kicked off the festive season with the annual “Holiday Tree Lighting,” a ceremony that takes place in front of City Hall. The evening starts with a number of local organizations and schools performing seasonal songs.

There are normally a few words from the current Mayor, then an official tree lighting “helper” pushes the button to light the tree. Refreshments are served and there is a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. This ceremony helps remind the community that no matter who we are or what our beliefs, this is a time for goodwill to all.

Another Mesquite tradition, like so many other communities, we have “Bell Ringers.” In 1891, a Salvation Army Captain in San Francisco resolved to provide free meals to the poor of the area for Christmas. He had no idea where he would find funding, but he remembered as a sailor in Liverpool England, he saw a large pot where people could contribute to the poor, which was called a

“Simpson’s Pot.” Then he set something up in San Francisco. Needless to say it was a great success. The idea was then carried to Sacramento in 1895, then Boston in 1897 and New York in 1898. In 1901, these kettle contributions provided the funds for the first free sit down dinner at Madison Square Garden, a tradition that continued for many years. The kettles now provide for millions at Thanksgiving and Christmas. The message is the same every year: “Sharing is Caring.” To me, it’s not Christmas until I hear the ringing of a bell.

For many years my dream was Bing Crosby’s White Christmas. After a few of those white Christmases I know Christmas is more about the smells, sounds, and feelings.

Somehow it is satisfying to know that the roots of Christmas run deep in this isolated corner of the desert. Times have changed, yet we still trim the trees, light the lights, sing the songs, and eat together. May we continue to create the traditions that will become the treasured memories of the future.

Wishing you all well for the Season. V

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Christmas Gifts for Travelers

by Celece Seegmiller

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t’s that time of year again and the countdown to Christmas is on. Like many, I find myself struggling to find the perfect gift for everyone. Chances are, some of the people on your gift list are travelers. If so, consider some of my favorite travel accessories and gifts:

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1. Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones. Hands down, this is one of the best Christmas gifts I have ever received. It all happened a few years ago after a trip back to Cleveland for the holidays. At the risk of offending anyone with small children, let's just say there were some very loud passengers right behind me and it was a miserable flight for all of us. I think Rob was tired of me complaining about the noise, so I ended up with a pair of Bose Headphones under the tree for our return flight home. This has alleviated all of the noise problems since and I will not fly without them.

2. iPad Mini. It fits perfectly in my carry-on and contains my favorite books, games, movies, and music. It's especially nice now that I have Wi-Fi access on some of my flights. I often wonder how I ever traveled without it.

3. Brookstone BioSenseÂŽ Neck Travel Pillow and blanket. It's no secret that the airlines have cut back on the pillows and blankets. Therefore, I invested in my favorite pillow after testing several options throughout the years.

This U-shaped design supports my head during my peaceful slumber (thanks to my headphones) and fits right inside my

carry-on. When I am lucky enough to receive a pillow from the airlines, I use it for lumbar support on my lower back.

4. Travel Accessories. Packing Cubes have simplified the way I pack and they keep my suitcase and carry-on organized. I prefer EbagsÂŽ and I ordered a nice set with various sizes and a toiletry kit. Stocking stuffers can include luggage tags, a digital luggage scale, and a battery power pack to keep phones and cameras charged.

5. Travel Book. It seems like everyone keeps their photos on their phones and computers now. However, I love to look at mine in print – especially in photo books. One of my favorite gifts to give are photo books of our vacations. There are many websites like Shutterfly or Snapfish with travel-themed layouts for various destinations or you can create your own and add personal descriptions. Simply upload your photos and insert. Within a week, you will receive a beautiful book to put under the tree.

6. A Vacation. From a gift certificate to a surprise river cruise or trip to Hawaii, giving the gift of travel for the holiday season is very popular. Imagine the big smile on Christmas morning when your loved one opens a box to find travel documents to their dream destination. It is one gift that will never be forgotten or returned and creates memories that last a lifetime.

From a small accessory, to a personal photo book, or even a vacation, the travelers on your list will love a thoughtful gift to enhance their vacation experience.V

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FEATURED CONTRIBUTOR

Dave Amodt

The Man Be

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hind The Camera We are fortunate to have many talented contributors to this magazine. One of those contributors is an amazing photographer, Dave Amodt. Over just the last two years, his work has graced several of our covers, and has been featured in many articles. He is a busy man and always has inspiring stories to tell from his travels and adventures. To begin our series of featured contributors, we reached out to the person who knows Dave best – his wife, Misty – for a “snapshot” of his life and story. story by Misty Amodt photos by Dave Amodt lightning strike beside the schoolhouse. He has sold several of these prints to people.

When he isn’t engaged in photography, you might find him repairing your heater or air conditioner. He owns Outwest HVAC, Inc. and enjoys serving people through that business.

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ave Amodt was raised in St. George, Utah, and followed in his father’s footsteps with his love of photography. In high school, he won several awards for his portraits, and even took Sweepstakes at the Utah State Fair when he was 15 years old. Currently, you can see many of his sports pictures at the local St. George Applebee’s. He has passed his love and skills of photography/videography down to his daughters, both of whom have excelled at, and also have won praise for their work.

Dave’s favorite subjects to photograph include nature, public events and he also enjoys portraits. He insists on using the best equipment, and is a perfectionist when editing his photos.

One of his favorite and most popular pictures is that of a lightning storm out in Bundyville of the old schoolhouse.

He was out there with one of his daughters trying to capture just the right shot of lightning, and, frustrated, decided to pack up his equipment as the sun was setting.

But, ever the patient photographer, he waited just a bit longer and was able to get a really great shot of the sunset shining in through the schoolhouse windows, with a huge

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If you know Dave, you also know that he travels to Tijuana and other places quite frequently, to serve The Lord and help with ministry work that is needed. You also know that he has “hobby-ADD” and loves trying many different hobbies. He opened his own hobby store – “Custom Drone & Hobby,” located behind Applebee’s and Winger’s in St. George, where he loves to spend time with people, finding out their interests, and getting to know our community better. V To view more of his work or to contact Dave, visit eph28.smugmug.com, call (435) 862-8622, or email dramodt@me.com.

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view on NONPROFIT

ST. GEORGE

MUSEUM DISCOVER • IMAGINE • CREATE

story and photos by Dawn McLain

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n southern Utah, there is no shortage of art. As residents, we are surrounded by creative inspiration. Undoubtedly, our diverse cultural landscape has been inspired by the area itself. In fact, southern Utah boasts some of the most stunning views in the nation, bringing millions of visitors to our area each year to explore and discover the wonders of life in southern Utah.

It’s only natural then, that we locals want to celebrate our inspirational surroundings and look to cultivate a lifelong love of the arts in our children. The St. George Children’s Museum does just that, and is a great place to bring kids of any age.

I recently sat down with the St. George Children’s Museum’s Executive Director, Marnie Workman to learn more about

the programs and exhibits featured at the Dixie Academy’s historic downtown site.

through experiential play impacts learning significantly and positively.

DM: Tell me about the Museum?

DM: What types of exhibits do you have?

MW: The St. George Children’s Museum inspires children to “Discover, Imagine, and Create.” We do this in a fun way through engaging exhibit offerings, education and art programs, community outreach, and events. Though the museum itself was a decade in the making, it has quickly become a community treasure.

We encourage children to connect with their world through role playing with our hands-on exhibits. Exploring and engaging in each exhibit heightens their awareness and perception of the world around them.

Research shows that interactions with parents and caregivers in ways that reinforce learning and neurological growth

MW: The museum showcases well over 50 interactive exhibits. Adults are drawn in by the children and are found experimenting and examining the exhibits with their kids.

This type of interaction increases the development of the bond between these individuals. A level of trust and emotional growth occurs as pockets of world knowledge open and expand. As children reflect on these experiences while in the outside world, these “doing” roles are reexperienced and more fully revealed and understood.

DM: I understand that the museum does not have an admission fee, just a suggested donation request. Is this correct?

MW: It’s true. Unlike most children’s museums, SGCM invites all to enter regardless of their ability to pay an admission fee. Other museums charge between $10 and $15 per entrance. We believe that this prohibits many community members from entry. The SGCM has hosted over 300,000 visitors from every state in the US as well as from every continent with the exception of Antarctica.

We attribute our phenomenal success to our outstanding exhibits and standards of maintenance and cleanliness, our wonderful staff, and our donation based entry policy.

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DM: So, how do you fund the exhibits and programs?

MW: Our major activity has always been the development and creation of our exhibits. We opened and have been sustained by generous donations and grants. The bulk of these donations have come from a single anonymous source. That source of funding is no longer available to us as it has been re-directed to another worthy project. This requires us to find significant new sources of funding to continue our operations.

Aside from the standard platforms such as social media and print advertising, we rely on our standing in the community, word-of-mouth referrals, and professional partnerships. Some of those partnerships are with the Downtown Merchants Group, the St. George Chamber of Commerce, and the Washington County Public Library system.

We are also working on our sustainability program called “Flying With Our Dragon, Rufus Grows Up.” The program focuses on business membership and sponsorship.

DM: Who is Rufus?

MW: Rufus is our dragon logo/mascot. We always say that if you haven’t met Rufus yet, we’d love to invite you folks to come on down for a complimentary tour so we can share him with you.

Marnie, thank you so much for your time and all you do in our community. I know that the museum provides a venue – a safe place for people of all ages to make connections with others in their community as they learn about their similarities, differences, roles, and value to our community as a whole. I applaud and appreciate your efforts. V For more information visit www.sgchildrensmuseum.org or call (435) 986-4000

DM: Amazing. I love this idea. What is your most popular exhibit?

MW: One of the most popular exhibit rooms at SGCM is the Grocery Store. Children of all ages can get a shopping cart or basket and fill it up with good things to eat. The youngest guests begin by simply pushing carts and filling them with fruits and vegetables. As the children return to this exhibit or for those a little older, they can select items based on what they would like to eat or prepare if they were grocery shopping in the real world. They can even take their selections to the checkout line for purchase. The children can also “work” at the grocery store.

They can stock shelves and keep things organized, they can work at the cash register, and they can be a manager or supervisor.

Each child finds his or her own niche in this playful learning adventure. The best part actually occurs when these same children put on a uniform and completely immerse themselves, their parents or caregivers, and new-found museum friends in the shopping experience.

DM: Do you have new exhibits coming?

MW: Absolutely. We just finished our newest exhibit, the Prehistoric Room; it’s all about dinosaurs and the kids love it. We are planning to update our existing rooms and exhibit pieces as well. One of our longer term goals is to create another original space. City RAP funds will allow us to continue what we have started and allow us to work toward these goals.

DM: I can’t wait to visit the Prehistoric Room. That sounds like it may become the new favorite exhibit.

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view on DESIGN

Christmas Wreaths 30

A Home Decorating Tradition Steeped in Rich History

by Helen Houston

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is the season to open your home to friends and family for holiday celebrations. Put your guests in the Christmas spirit by greeting them with unforgettable curbside décor. This begins with a beautifully decorated door.

A festively adorned door is often times the centerpiece of all outdoor holiday décor.

For this reason, it is important to ensure that your Christmas door is eye-catching and merry. With just a few simple tips, in no time at all you can build a fabulously festive Christmas style sure to win any door decorating contest.

Wreaths add color and style to our Christmas décor and have become a tradition in many homes. Evergreen, pine cones, tinsel, grape vines, Styrofoam, wood, or rope – regardless of their design, ‘tis the season to festively adorn your front door. In fact, wreaths have become so popular and so varied that many hang them indoors over fireplaces, on mirrors, and on walls.

History By learning a little more about the origin of the Christmas wreath, you’ll likely develop a deeper appreciation when you hang one on your door this Christmas.

Wreaths can be traced all the way back to ancient times when royalty of the Persian Empire and its upper class wore fabric versions adorned with jewels. In Ancient Greece, handmade laurel wreaths were used as crowns for athletes, military heroes, and even at weddings as a symbol of victory and pride.

As coniferous trees remained alive during the winter months, Egyptians, Hebrew, and Chinese cultures used evergreen to

symbolize eternal life. Later, Catholics and Christians took that same symbolism relating it to Christ. It is believed some Europeans used wreaths on the doors as symbols of their family identity, not unlike a family crest. Items from their individual gardens (like grapevines, flowers, or produce) were added for a touch of individuality. It was family tradition to build these wreaths together. A fun holiday activity, perhaps?

Getting Creative There are a few door decorating items to remember when selecting which Christmas wreath ideas to incorporate.

First, consider shape and scale. It is important to keep in mind the size of your space when selecting accent pieces.

Large wreaths will dwarf a small door, while smaller wreaths may look out of place in grand entranceways.

Identify your holiday theme, and translate that style to Christmas door wreaths to achieve a cohesive look. For example, establish a traditional look by selecting a classic berry wreath or those adorned with elegant ribbon and ornaments.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more imaginative style, whimsical mesh wreaths are a fabulous option. As always, remember to incorporate custom elements that make the door decorations all your own.

Creating unforgettable Christmas décor for doors does not require you drain the holiday fund. Rather than spending hundreds on those beautiful ornate wreaths found at the Christmas store, purchase bare greenery from any craft store and embellish it yourself. Trim the Christmas door wreath with anything from

beautiful ribbons to seasonal floral to whimsical ornaments and holiday baubles.

You can take inspiration from the traditional and add your own flair, or you can jazz things up a bit. Wreath designs can be as simple as a circle of garland with a bow on top, or more elaborately garnished with ribbons, fabrics, lights, and ornaments. Leaves, twigs and berries can also be added to your wreath for a more creative but natural style.

One of the hottest Christmas décor trends for 2016 is incorporating unique, whimsical, customized elements. Here is a list to get your creative juices flowing when designing your personalized Christmas wreath: twine wine corks picture frames birch bark pvc pipe faux fur thread spools ugly Christmas sweater electrical wire cookie cutters macaroni shells men’s ties feather boa sheet music golf balls & tees family photos Today, Christmas wreaths encompass the spirit and the fun of this special holiday season, not just by illuminating an entranceway, but by spreading cheer and a festive atmosphere to visitors both old and new. V

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One Thousand Flags Over Mesquite

by Paul Benedict photo by Barbara Benedict

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leven years ago, as the members of the Exchange Club of Mesquite planned a one-time event, a weeklong tribute to America’s military and veterans called One Thousand Flags Over Mesquite, they wondered how it would be received by the residents of the Virgin Valley.

Would volunteers step forward to help set up a field of 1000 full-size American Flags on the Recreation Center field, and help dismantle it when the week was over?

Would enough patriotic souls dedicate three hours of their time, day or night, to stand watch over the field? Would anyone attend the Veterans Day and Closing ceremonies? And most importantly, would the public truly grasp the significance of this display of patriotism and respect for those who have served our Nation?

As it turned out, the answer was a resounding “YES!” One Thousand Flags Over Mesquite touched the hearts of everyone, drawing visitors (and volunteers) from hundreds of miles away.

Truckers sounded their air horns in respect as they passed on the interstate, the ceremonies were standing-room only, and the assistance from the city and other community organizations was invaluable.

As soon as the week ended, the Exchange Club members began to hear: “When are you doing it again?” Well, they answered the call, and this year’s One Thousand Flags Over Mesquite will mark its 11th consecutive year.

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Now a tradition and a source of pride in Mesquite, Exchange Club members and volunteers will erect the flags on the west field of the Mesquite Recreation Center on Sunday morning, November 6, and this magnificent display of respect will stand proudly until November 13, 24 hours a day, rain or shine. Of course, the field is lighted at night, and dedicated volunteers will maintain a watchful vigil in three hour shifts, day and night.

On Veterans Day, Friday, November 11, at 6 pm, a stirring ceremony will be conducted at the field, and your presence is encouraged. This year, the Exchange Club is proud to highlight the contributions of women who have served and are serving our country, with noted local female veterans as program participants.

On Sunday, November 13 at 2 pm, a closing ceremony will be conducted, including a formal flag retirement ritual by the Mesquite Fire Department. If you have a worn or weathered American Flag that should be retired, please feel free to bring it to the field anytime during the week.

The Exchange Club of Mesquite is a major supporter of local veterans’ programs and services right here in the Virgin Valley, and One Thousand Flags Over Mesquite is a primary fundraiser. We invite you to sponsor a flag for $35 each, and you will be given a ribbon of remembrance to attach to your flag in honor of or in memory of an important veteran in your life. There is room on the dedication tag to add your

own words of recognition. Remember, One Thousand Flags Over Mesquite honors every veteran and member of America’s military, living or deceased.

After the closing ceremony, you are welcome to either take the flag you sponsored home to display proudly, or donate it back to the project, to be included in next year’s One Thousand Flags Over Mesquite. In either case, keep your dedication ribbon as a reminder of your special veteran.

Visit the field – once or often. Whether this is the first time you have experienced One Thousand Flags Over Mesquite or you make it a point to witness and be part of this magnificent display every year, the sense of patriotism you will feel cannot be described – you simply have to experience it for yourself. Be sure to bring your camera – the precision and grandeur of the display is truly memorable, day or night.

Walk slowly through the field. Each starspangled sentinel represents the silent stories of thousands of brave Americans who have served and are serving our great nation at home and abroad. Listen to their stories with your heart, read the dedications, offer your thanks for their sacrifices, and share your silent prayers with them. V For more information or to sponsor a flag, call Paul at (702) 346-6633, or Sandra at (702) 346-1200.

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Mesquite on Broadway

by Denis Feehan

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he Great White Way is coming to Mesquite! Your favorite songs from your favorite plays, expertly choreographed, will be performed by Mesquite's finest theater talent. And those seasoned veterans will be joined by a gaggle of singing, dancing, cute-as-abutton kids to bring Broadway to life right here in the desert.

The show will be directed by longtime performer/dancer/director Larry Lemieux who is departing from his annual Christmas show to bring his audience a glimpse of musical theater at its best. The show will be produced by the Virgin Valley Theatre Group.

The fun takes place at 7 pm on Friday and Saturday, November 11 and 12 at the newly updated Mesquite Community Theatre at 150 North Yucca Street in Mesquite.

The new state of the art lighting system coupled with a giant screen on which the scenery will be projected will add volumes to the theater experience.

The performers will range in age from under eight to over 80. At the signups, one

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of the littlest ones was an animated, tiny two-year old tow head who was so cute that Lemieux was nearly dancing, saying “She’s got to be in the show!”

Perennial favorites The Sun City Sounds, with some 30 singers, will open the nearly two hour show with a medley of classic Broadway tunes. They will be followed by singers and dancers from the Mesquite area including the fabulous Mesquite Toes Tap Team, half a dozen couples dancing the tango and, of course, those wonderful kids. The show will close with an audience participation sing along version of “There’s No Business Like Show Business.” So be sure to stretch out your vocal chords before you come to the show.

Also in the show will be a trio of live musicians playing piano, trumpet, and drums. They will accompany select acts as well as entertain the audience before the show and during the intermission. Add to that a five piece “Salvation Army Band” of local talent in one of the scenes (think Onward Christian Soldiers) and you’ve got some great live music.

Beautiful costumes and unique stage props will complete the journey from Broadway to the boards of Mesquite. You'll enjoy selected songs from Guys and Dolls, Pajama Game, Annie, and many others.

And there will even be two fog machines – who doesn’t like those?

Tickets are just $15 each (discounted to $10 each for those who have purchased a season ticket for Virgin Valley Theatre Group’s 2016-2017 season). The tickets are available through the Virgin Valley Theatre Group’s website at vvtgnv.com, Danielle’s Chocolates, the Mesquite Fine Arts Gallery, the Mesquite Chamber of Commerce, and the Mesquite Community Theatre box office (one hour prior to the performances).

In addition to the two Mesquite on Broadway performances, the Virgin Valley Theatre Group will be presenting three plays this season. Blithe Spirit, the first show, was presented October 7 - 22. The new year brings us the second show, The Odd Couple, which runs January 27February 11. The final show, Tuna Does Vegas, runs March 10 - 25. V Pictured: The cast of The Marvelous Wonderettes

OPD Presents Checks To Local Schools From ‘Round-up for Education’ Program

by Keith Buchhalter

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his is the second year for the Overton Power District No. 5 “Round Up for Education” program, a program instituted by the OPD Board of Directors in 2014 and funded by ratepayers who round their power bills up to the nearest dollar each month, contributing an average of about 50 cents monthly. Ratepayers can opt-in to the program simply by asking one of our customer service representatives, in person or by phone, and specify whether the additional small-change donation made each month will go to school programs in Virgin Valley or in Moapa Valley.

OPD officials recently presented checks totaling $2,443 to school officials in both the Moapa Valley and the Virgin Valley for use in local school programs. In Virgin Valley the total number of participants into the program decreased from 225 customers in 2015 to 184 customers this year. Their monthly small-change donations over the past year were accumulated into a check for $1,110.97 and presented to the Virgin Valley High School Principal Cliff Hughes on August 24, 2016.

Moapa Valley participation into the program increased considerably from 150 customers in 2015 to 234 customers in 2016. A check for $1,332.23 was presented to Moapa Valley High School Assistant Principal Pledger Solomon on August 29, 2016 at their “Back to School Night” event. These funds are administered by school committees in each valley, which decides how the funds are going to be divided to support education and athletic programs.

OPD’s General Mendis Cooper adds, “Round Up for Education" is a great way to support your schools. OPD administers the program free of charge and 100% of the funds collected are donated to the school of your choice. I hope everyone considers joining the Round Up for Education Program.”V

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view on OUTDOORS

Not-So-Silent Night s, Soundscapes, and Acoust ic Monit oring Listen to the voice of nature, for it holds treasures for you. ~Native American (Huron) Proverb story and photos by Karen L. Monsen

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n a world bombarded with sounds, people seek tranquility in national parks and wilderness areas. In 2013, the Journal of Environmental Psychology reported survey results from 15,000 visitors to 39 National Park Service Areas and found “...91% considered enjoyment of natural quiet and the sounds of nature as compelling reasons for visiting the parks, second only to viewing the scenery (93%).”

Responding to public comments on noise, the National Park Service (NPS) established a Natural Sounds & Night Skies Division, “...to protect, maintain, or restore acoustical environments throughout the National Park System.” In 2010, Zion NP established its Soundscape

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Management Plan and other parks did the same. With a handful of acoustic and social scientists involved in soundscape research, the NPS is monitoring natural and human-caused sounds to identify ways to reduce noise, maintain natural sounds, and improve the park experience.

Noise and Natural Sounds Music to one’s ears is noise to another’s.

Distinctions between pleasing sounds and “noise” are subjective, with “noise” generally described as undesirable sounds accompanied by negative emotions such as annoyance, fear, and mild anger. The University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found noise effects on the cardiovascular system include

hypertension and stroke, and associations between environmental noise on sleep disturbance and children’s cognition.

Experimental psychologist and Southern Utah University professor Britton Mace explains, “Human-caused sounds have steadily increased over the past 100 years, in urban and suburban areas especially, creating a cacophony of noise.”

Conversely, natural sounds are associated with reducing stress, improving cognitive function, and eliciting positive emotional states.

Do You Hear What I Hear?

To reduce unwanted noise, the NPS began monitoring sites to identify and quantify human-made and natural

sounds. Monitoring acoustic data involves measuring amplitude (loudness) expressed in decibels (dB) or decibels adjusted to human hearing (dBA) and frequency measured in hertz (Hz).

Humans can sense sounds with 0 dB at 1 kHz even though they cannot distinctly hear the sound. At above 85 dB, employers must provide workers with hearing protection. Conversational speech is around 60 dBA, a whisper might be 20 dBA, a vacuum cleaner 70 dBA, an overhead jet 120 dBA, and a rock concert can reach above 125 dBA. Decibels increase exponentially—with a 10 dB increase, the perceived loudness intensifies tenfold.

For animals, human-generated sounds can interfere with basic survival—masking sounds used to establish territories, avoid predators, and protect young. When animals cannot hear important acoustic clues, an owl might not hear a mouse, a bird misses hearing an insect, or a chipmunk cannot hear an approaching coyote. For humans, man-made sounds obscure the soothing waterfall, wind-rustled leaves, or an impending storm.

The second acoustic measurement is frequency, measured in hertz (Hz). Humans hear between 20 Hz and 20,000 Hz. For comparison, dogs hear up to 45,000 Hz, bats navigate using ultrasonic vocalizations at 120,000 Hz, and elephants produce infrasound too low for humans to hear.

Monitoring equipment deployed at various NPS and BLM locations typically include a microphone (with bird spike), digital recorder, batteries, sound pressure level dB-meter, and a weather station. Along with weather data, the recording unit captures sound levels and frequency readings from 12.5 to 40,000 Hz and typically creates a 24-hour archive for 30 days.

In the past two years, Dr. Mace collected acoustic data at 14 locations across the expansive Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument (GSENM) and accumulated nearly 17,000 recording hours. Naturalists examining these recordings have

photo courtesy of Dr. Britton Mace, SUU Professor of Psychology, SUU students Stuart Clements and Alex Vittum-Jones setting up acoustic equipment.

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soundscape kiosk linking acoustic recordings to specific locations on an interactive map. The sound library and soundscape kiosk are scheduled for completion in 2017. By educating people about soundscapes, Dr. Mace hopes to increase support and interest in sound research, attract undergraduates to SUU’s work, and define exciting new soundscape projects.

From acoustic monitoring, we know that even following a snowy day in Zion National Park, the soundscape reveals a not-so-silent night. V For more information, visit www.nps.gov/subjects/sound/ identified specific bird calls, coyotes, three different cricket species, hiker voices, and over-flying planes.

The National Parks Service Soundscapes website includes acoustic data collected at various locations. The Great Sand Dunes NP was the quietest place with 8.7 dBA, remote Grand Canyon trails

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registered whisper-levels of 20 dBA, thunder at Arches NP registered 100 dBA, a military jet flyover produced 120 dBA, and some of the quietest places in GSENM registered between 13-15 dBA. Soundscape Kiosk Dr. Mace is building an online sound library and creating a GSENM visitor

May the stars carry your sadness away, May the flowers fill your heart with beauty, May hope forever wipe away your tears.

And above all, may silence make you strong. ~Chief Dan George, Tsleil-Waututh Nation

Mesquite-Toes Tap Team The Show Must Go On

by Donna Eads

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fter the retirement of the original Director of the Mesquite-Toes, Vicki Eckman, the devoted group of dancers spent the summer looking for a replacement.

But the show must go on and “you got to dance!” So the team continued to plan and promote the next season of performances knowing that a new Director would soon be appointed.

The Veteran’s Day Parade is always a must. So look for your favorite dancer on Saturday, November 5, and wave to them in the parade. A short, free program will take place at 1 pm at the Heritage Museum that same day. Also, the Mesquite-Toes plan to be a part of the Festival of Trees. Of course, practice continues for the Christmas Benefit Show.

Starting with a successful Open House in September, many excited dancers tried out the various classes taught by the instructors. This event filled many of the classes that started in October, including musical theater, clog, jazz, and tap.

The Christmas show will feature a performance from White Christmas by the Musical Theater ensemble. New dances will be done by each team plus some oldies but goodies that have been re-choreographed. Purchase your tickets early since these shows are usually sold out, and remember to bring a donation for our local Food Bank. The show dates and times are December 8 at 1 pm and December 9 at 1 pm and 7 pm at the Community Theater.

As the “Goodwill Ambassadors for the Magic of Mesquite,” the troupe performed at the Free Spirit Birthday Bash in Las Vegas at Boulder Station in October. The pre-show was a 30-minute fun packed performance including the longtime favorite “Fishin in the Dark.” Then, more than 20 of the Mesquite-Toes and friends enjoyed the dinner show. The “Toes” also participated in the community Halloween events for children in Mesquite and danced at the Senior Center.

Save the dates in 2017 for the 14th annual Dance Spectacular planned for April 13 -15. V

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view on ENERGY

Energy Saving Tips for the Holiday Season

by Keith Buchhalter

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inter and the holiday season are around the corner, and just like you, all of us at Overton Power District No. 5 love this time of the year. Decorating our homes inside and out, cooking for our friends and family members, and keeping us warm can make our monthly energy bill go up considerably and that’s why we compiled a list of our favorite 10 winter/holiday energy saving tips to help you keep your electric bill down during the 2016 winter/holiday season.

1. Bake several dishes at a time. We all love to bake this time of year, but did you know that it takes the same amount of energy to heat a full oven as it does a nearly-empty one? Make the most of your oven and bake several dishes at the same time.

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2. Use your microwave. Use the microwave instead of your regular oven whenever possible. Microwave ovens draw less than half the power of your regular oven, and they cook for a much shorter period of time.

3. Turn the thermostat down when you have guests. Friends and family gatherings are quite common this time of year, and those extra bodies in the house means extra warmth at no cost to you.

4. Now it is time to wash the dishes.

You can do this by scraping off food, emptying liquids and giving them a manual pre-rinse in the sink with cold water. Only run your dishwasher when it is completely full. Try using the light or short cycle. If you’ve made sure your dishes are easier to clean, the

dishwasher doesn’t need to run at maximum power to finish off the job.

When your dishwasher is about to click to the dry cycle, turn it off and open the door to let the dishes air dry. If you do this instead of using the heat-dry option you could save 15-50% of your dishwasher’s energy consumption.

5. Check the refrigerator and freezer doors to make sure they seal tightly. This will keep the cold air in and the warm air out. To test, close the refrigerator door on a dollar bill. If you can slip the bill out easily, or worse, if it falls out on its own, the door requires adjustment, or the gasket needs replacing.

6. Plug leaks and drafts. Stop throwing money out the window. Your home loses most of its heat to drafts and air leaks (inside and out). Take simple steps like

caulking windows, sealing leaks around recessed lighting, and sliding draft guards under your doors and you can save up to 20% on heating costs.

7. Invite the sun in. Yes, it feels like the sun abandons us during the winter, but that doesn’t mean we should ignore it during these shorter days. Open curtains and other window treatments on your west-and south-facing windows during the day to allow sunlight to naturally heat your home, and save anywhere from 2-12%.

8. Maintain Your HVAC System. Make sure to clean or change your furnace filters regularly. A dirty furnace filter will slow down air flow, making the system work harder to keep you warm and costing you more money. Also, consider getting a winter tune-up. A semi-annual or yearly tune-up of your heating and cooling system can improve efficiency, saving you money and making your home more comfortable.

9. Deck the Halls with LEDs. The holiday season wouldn’t be complete without lighting up our homes with the brightest

and most colorful displays possible. This year, consider LED and fiber optic lights instead of traditional incandescent light strands. LED holiday lights use up to 90% less energy and last longer as they are sturdier and more resistant to breakage.

Also, put them on a timer; there’s no need to have them on while everyone is sleeping.

10. Last but not least, if you plan to travel, leaving your home for more than

two to three days, turn your thermostat down and turn your water heater off.

Just don’t forget to turn it back on immediately upon your return.

For more energy savings tips, follow us on Twitter and Facebook. From all of us at Overton Power District No. 5, we wish you and your family a safe 2016 Holiday Season!V

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Top Safety Tips for the Holidays

by Officer Quinn Averett, Mesquite Police Department

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he Mesquite Police Department wants to wish our wonderful community a very merry and of course, safe, holiday season.

Unfortunately, during this time of year, certain types of crimes tend to become more common. The Mesquite Police Department wants to help you avoid becoming a victim of a crime this holiday season by offering a few tips.

While out shopping, stay alert and be aware of your surroundings.

Try not to let your guard down because you are in a hurry, and remember not to set your wallet or purse inside of your shopping cart. When out shopping, only take the amount of cash you expect you will need for that trip, leaving most of your cash at home or in the bank.

Would-be thieves really like to watch parking lots of shopping centers during the holidays. They will watch for people who leave new merchandise in plain view inside of a vehicle, and walk away

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without locking the doors. If you do need to leave merchandise inside of your vehicle while you continue shopping, try to lock the merchandise in a trunk, or hidden under other items so it is out of sight of people walking by your vehicle. Try to park in a spot that is well lit and close to the store. The chances of your car being stolen or burglarized are reduced if you simply lock the doors and keep the windows up. Safeguarding your car and valuables can be summed up in three simple words: LOCK your car, TAKE your keys with you, and HIDE the valuables in your car.

The Mesquite Police Department also asks that if you see suspicious behavior, call our communications center immediately so we can respond and investigate. Our non-emergency number is (702) 346-6911. If it is an emergency, dial 911. Please don’t allow the spirit of giving lull you into a false sense of security this season. V

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The Dickens' Christmas Festival

by Brittany Dell

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he Dickens' Christmas Festival, a re-creation of 19th Century Victorian London, will open the holiday season once again on Wednesday, November 30, 2016, and continue until Saturday, December 3 in St. George, Utah at the Dixie Convention Center.

The Festival is not just another craft show, but a unique and unusual entertainment and shopping experience. The fair re-creates the crooked streets and winding lanes of Charles Dickens' London, where so many of America's holiday traditions originated.

Old English shops, hundreds of period costumes, fortune tellers, orphans, royalty, and the "real" Father Christmas all combine to offer guests a Christmas experience like no other. Where else can you find a cast of Dickens' characters such as Tiny Tim, Scrooge, Oliver, and of course, Queen Victoria herself roaming the Festival streets and charming their audiences?

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There is nothing as contagious as the laughter and irresistible charm of street urchins and chimney sweeps, well-to-do ladies and gents, and of course the middle class merchants selling their wares. The Festival is known for its unique gifts and quality merchandise.

Guests will be entertained from the moment they step into "Old London" until the time they leave. Mini-productions of the musicals based on Charles Dickens' Scrooge and Oliver Twist will be performed nightly on Queen Victoria's Stage as well as puppet shows, street theater, and the Fezziwig Dance Party. The tall, tall Spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Future will also be wandering through the streets to delight young and old alike.

The Festival will take place at the Dixie Convention Center in St. George from November 30 through December 3, 2016, 10 am until 9 pm daily, before it heads North to delight audiences in Salt Lake City. V For more information, please call (435) 688-2990, or visit www.dickenschristmasfestival.com

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view on EDUCATION

Alternative Spring Breaks Make a Difference story by Erin E. O’Brien, Ph.D. photos courtesy of Outdoor Leadership Academy participants

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hile it’s a holiday season, spring break is right around the corner. Traditionally viewed as the time for high school and college students to head to the beach, there are an increasing number of opportunities for students who want to have fun while including something to help their careers or others. These opportunities are typically called “alternative spring breaks,” even though they can still involve traveling to someplace new to relax with friends or make new ones. The prices associated with these types of trips are often on par with more traditional spring break trips, but can be considerably less depending on the destination and the accommodations.

Most colleges and universities offer a variety of travel courses for this time. If you’re a high school student, the dates may not match up well, but some of these allow high school students to earn college credit so they are worth investigating. Locally, Dixie State periodically offers field courses over their spring break that count toward college general education requirements, especially in the sciences. These include trips to local national parks based out of their recently remodeled Tanner Amphitheater.

The DSU Student Association also organizes humanitarian trips with recent destinations as close as Las Vegas and Kanab and as far away as New Orleans. Southern Utah University also offers a variety of humanitarian trips through their Community Engagement Center to domestic locations and Central America.

Both universities offer service trips through their pre-medical programs (Rural Health Scholars at SUU and DSU and Dixie PreMedical Alliance) to help pre-professional students (pre-med, pre-dental, pre-pharmacy, pre-PA, you get the idea) who need service to apply to programs after graduation.

Other Service-Oriented Trips If these don’t appeal to you or if you aren’t enrolled in college, but still want to experience an alternative spring break, many nonprofit groups provide similar opportunities. Both United Way and Habitat for Humanity will accept volunteers for travel projects as long as they meet certain requirements. United Way works with individual volunteers aged 18 or older. Habitat for Humanity will

accept volunteers as young as 16, but only works with groups of five or more individuals. The locations of these trips vary, but they are all domestic. Cost depends on the destination and the activities, but seems to range from about $250 to $600 for these two organizations. These costs do not include travel to the location, but they do include housing and any material you might need for your activities. United Way includes food as well as housing.

If you’re more into spending spring break outside, the American Hiking Society offers “volun-tours,” service trips that combine day hiking, trail conservation, camaraderie, and nature

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exploration. These trips are all domestic (including Puerto Rico) and only cost $195 (not including travel or food). Like the humanitarian trips, these include activities for work and relaxation. Because these can be physically demanding, they offer a variety of accommodations and difficulties for their trips.

If none of these options fit your needs, there are some amazing non-profit organizations that help to coordinate a wider array of options. One well known program is Break a Difference (BAD).

They hold programs for college students over winter and spring breaks and host approximately 30,000 volunteers a year at sites across the country in areas ranging from after-school programs, food banks, military families, and community gardens with on-site costs of $395 for the week.

So there are lots of options out there for adventurous students looking for something out of the ordinary. Get out, see the world, and do some good. V For more information on the programs mentioned in this article, check out these websites: www.breakadifference.org/ www.habitat.org/youthprograms volunteervacations.americanhiking.org/ www.unitedway.org/get-involved/groups/student/alternativespring-break www.suu.edu/siel/cec/alternative-break.html biology.dixie.edu/biology_advisement/

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view on PETS

Merry Petsmas Everything Your Pet Wants for the Holiday

by Dianne Reid

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appy Holidays! It’s such an exciting time of year here in Mesquite and Southern Utah.

Our snowbird friends are back in town, plans are underway for Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings, and the golf courses are overseeded and ready to go. Add to that, the crisp autumn air means we’re back to walking our dogs and spending more time outside. What’s not to love about our beautiful corner of the world?

Speaking of love – and of Christmas, even if you don’t have a pet, is there anyone out there who doesn’t have a least one pet on their Christmas shopping list? Having come away from the SuperZoo Pet Expo in August with an exhaustive list of the newest musthave gadgets for pets, I’ve narrowed it down to the hottest growing category for gift ideas: interactive toys.

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The buzz for pet toys this year is brainstimulation and exercise, and if you’ve watched all the infamous cat (and dog) videos, you know there is a plethora of them on the market. The latest interactive toys trending for Christmas this year are: Pet Chatz (www.petchatz.com). One I’ve been following for years – I love it! Check out the video on YouTube, and you’ll be hooked (but beware, it’s pricey!): www.youtube.com/ watch?v=udlzRaB-pKg Tkir (www.sbarkdogs.com). Another cool product I’ve been supporting through Kickstarter, and which we’re privileged to have the first stock available in Mesquite this month. It’s an interactive snack toy that is awesome.

iFetch (www.ifetch.com). Yep, this was my first Kickstarter support project, and I still love it. These folks were one of the first to dominate the interactive toy category, and won yet another award at SuperZoo this year. (Disclosure: yes, we have them here for sale in Mesquite). Check out their videos on YouTube – there are hundreds of them.

Tether Tug Uber (www.tethertug.com). Another Pet Product of the Year winner. It’s an interactive toy for high-energy dogs that consists of a knotted rope tug toy mounted on a rod secured to an in-ground base. Again, there are hilarious videos on YouTube. Check out this one: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=VyFJOiu7ySU

For cats, my favorites are: NoBowl Feeding System (nobowlcat.com). You’re probably seeing a trend here, as I find the coolest products through Kickstarter.

This is another one, which also just happened to win a Best Product award at SuperZoo. It’s an indoor “hunting system” for feeding your cat the way nature intended. You fill the faux mice with food, and hide them around the house. Your cat hunts down their meal, and eats on their own time schedule.

Check it out here: www.youtube.com/ watch?v=TJxJYWfXJk4 FroliCat (www.frolicat.com). This line of interactive cat toys has something for every feline – even the shy ones.

I’ve tried almost every product in the range, and I can attest that cats love them – great price points, too. They’re available at most pet stores, as well as Amazon and Chewy.

Bergan Star Chaser Turbo Scratcher (berganpet.com/product/star-chaser/).

Another award-winning product,

it combines a cat scratcher with a motion-activated LED ball for hours of fun and exercise.

Although innovation and exercise are the most popular pet category now, I want to mention another growing trend that is close to my heart – products for aging and handicapped pets. Muffin’s Halo for Blind Dogs won Best New Dog Product 2016 at SuperZoo. I’m so happy to see the pet category for aging pets continue to grow. This is a product I spotted in 2012 and have been singing its praises ever since. For more products to assist aging and handicapped pets, check out handicappedpets.com and seniorpetproducts.com.

And finally, for gift giving along the lines of the monthly fruit basket, there are several companies now doing a fantastic job delivering monthly “mystery boxes” filled with pet toys (and even treats) right to your doorstep. You can subscribe, or just give as a one-time gift. Prices range from $20-$50, and the most popular are: Bark Box (dogs) barkbox.com PoochPerks (dogs) www.poochperks.com

PawPak (dogs) pawpack.com KitNipBox (cats) www.kitnipbox.com PurrPacks (cats)purrpacks.com MeowBox (cats) meowbox.com In closing, I’d like to leave you with a few freebies I’ve discovered along the way.

Most come as both smartphone apps and/ or website newsletters and blogs: FetchFind.com BarkPost.com Whole-Dog-Journal.com DogsNaturallyMagazine.com DogFoodAdvisor.com Pet First Aid by American Red Cross App Put Hub App There are literally hundreds of informationpacked pet websites and apps out there. Please feel free to call or email me anytime if you have questions , or are searching for any specific info and need some assistance.

Happy Holidays, fellow pet lovers!

Personal Note: It is with a heavy heart that I announce that Hole-In-One Pet Products store will

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not be opening this year as planned. It has been a heart-breaking decision to make, and very personal. Those who know me know that I came to Mesquite to care for my parents, and it’s been a difficult journey. Sadly, the situation has escalated to the point that I am unable to open the store at this time, and need to turn my full attention in another direction for the foreseeable future.

I apologize to the Mesquite community, my staff, the City, and all the wonderful people who have been so helpful and encouraging – this town is phenomenal.

My vision for Hole-In-One Pets has been a long held dream, and a 12-month effort. I’m devastated that I’m unable at this time to fulfill my promise to establish what I believe would’ve been a premier pet care facility – truly the first of its kind anywhere.

I have a significant amount of stock that I will be selling in order to clear out the storage unit by Christmas. The majority of stock is pet doors. We have doors for patio doors, wood doors, walls, sheds, and glass – in all shapes and sizes. Please refer to our website at www.holeinonepetproducts.com for more information, or call me directly at (702) 816-0083. Pricing will be at cost, so there are some tremendous deals to be had. V

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Shop with a Cop

by Kim Otero

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t is “the most wonderful time of the year” for the Mesquite Police Department, members of Elks Lodge #2811, and local residents and businesses as they prepare for the Mesquite Police Department’s annual Shop With a Cop event. It will be “The best Christmas ever!” for the youngsters who are carefully pre-selected based upon their needs and circumstance, and cross matched with other local giving organizations to prevent duplication of effort, to attend Shop With A Cop. Shop With a Cop is fast paced. Children are picked up from local elementary schools and ride with officers in the patrol cars to a shopping destination. After greeting Santa, the children and their officer partners flood into the store. The search for gifts quickly turns into a game of twenty questions: “Is that a real gun? Can I touch it? Have you ever caught a bad guy?” The conversation soon relaxes and the search for the perfect gifts continues.

There is fun and laughter around every corner. Officers who spend their day reasoning with the public may find themselves toe to toe with a seven year old who is convinced that even though the jacket cannot zip up it is perfect and insists on having it. Crisis negotiation tactics are implemented and the seven year old is still holding the jacket. Reinforcements are brought in and the jacket, once held hostage, is released in favor of a “better” jacket.

Meanwhile, the members of the Elks’ Lodge are in full swing cooking hot dogs, chicken tenders, and other kid-friendly food.

Mr. and Mrs. Claus take their places and the children arrive for a quick lunch before heading back to school.

The day is fun, and it is rewarding, yet the officers are savvy and know that there will be those who will try and return the children’s gifts for cash or store credit. The police department has a strict policy that the gifts are not to be returned so the UPC code on each item is covered with black marker at checkout. Items that do not fit properly can be exchanged for a like item only.

This heartwarming event is made possible through generous donations made by local residents, businesses, and even visitors to Mesquite. Donations to Shop With a Cop can be dropped off at the Mesquite Police Department, located at 695 Mayan Circle. Checks should be made payable to the Mesquite Police Department. For questions please call (702) 346-5262. V

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Southern Utahns Enjoy, Support the Arts at Kayenta Festival story and photos by Alexa V. Morgan

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erfect fall weather graced the 17th annual Art in Kayenta festival, held Oct 7-9 in Coyote Gulch Art Village, the centerpiece of the Kayenta desert community.

Attracting some 6,000 visitors each year, Art in Kayenta is the largest recurring event organized by the nonprofit Kayenta Arts Foundation. The unique palette of artworks displayed against the majestic red rock setting keeps locals and visitors alike coming back. “Kayenta is a beautiful festival in a relaxed environment,” says Matt Marten, who serves on KAF’s board of directors. “The village was created for art events, so that makes it special.”

More than 50 juried artists from southern Utah and across the Southwest displayed their work over the weekend. Other highlights included live entertainment and food vendors.

Art in Kayenta serves as a fundraiser for KAF’s labor of love: the development of a new arts center, located in the heart of the village.

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art by Djibril N'Doye

The building’s flexible design is centered around a 200-seat black box theater and concert stage that can be rearranged to accommodate meetings, receptions, lectures, seminars, and rehearsals. An independent venue with the potential to appeal to a diverse audience, the center will host a broad range of visual and performing arts productions, from dramatic plays to jazz concerts.

The center is being supported by private donors, grants, and local recreation, arts, and parks funding. Approximately $1.7 million has gone into the project so far.

Marten says that KAF is in the process of raising the final $400,000 needed to open the facility to the public. The board hopes to obtain a certificate of occupancy by the end of 2016.

An exclusive social for patrons of the center held on Friday raised $50,000.

“People here are very generous,” Marten says. V

To learn more about KAF’s mission and other exciting events in Kayenta, visit kayentaartsfoundation.org.

Mesquite Nevada’s Appliance, Plumbing, Air Conditioning & Heating Professionals

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view on FITNESS

Keeping Fit Through The Holidays

by Laura L. Draskovich, B.S., B.A., A.C.E. Certified Personal Trainer

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aintaining your fitness goals through the holiday season does not have to be an impossible feat. You've been active and mindfully maintaining your workouts; now the thought of the holidays and cooler weather may have you singing the blues. Schedules have turned upside down with trips, parties, and visitors, and diets are derailed with sugary treats and comfort foods.

You may say to yourself, "I'll just pick it up after the New Year." Sound familiar? It's no wonder gyms are packed in January.

However, keeping fit through the holidays can be doable with some forethought and planning. Consider the following:

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Strategize Here are some helpful ideas that I and others have used to be prepared for these times:

indulging. By doing this, you actually can use the large meal to work to your fat burning advantage.

Stay hydrated. Keep a large water bottle handy when preparing meals. You will stay fuller and less likely to to pick as you go.

Rearrange your calories for the day.

Simply put, you can eat smaller meals with fewer calories through the day when you know you just might overdo things later on.

Keep a vegetable tray prepped. Having instant access to healthy, low calorie, filling foods to fill and fuel your day is key to keeping you on track.

Manage Stress Try to alleviate stress in your daily life.

It will reduce the likelihood of making unhealthy choices.

Stagger your calories. This means, cut back your calories a few days prior to the expected event where you will be over

Slow down. See what is truly important.

Appreciate the joys around you.

Keep a journal. Track your thoughts and ideas. Writing your feelings has deep therapeutic value. A journal is also an excellent planning tool.

Sleep. Depriving yourself of needed rest wreaks havoc on stress hormones such as cortisol, which contribute to fat storage. Try creating a relaxing "wind down" routine that will prepare you mentally and physically for a good night’s sleep.

Sugar. Studies have shown a link between sugar consumption and depression. If you crave a sugar fix, reach for options like a piece of dark chocolate or a small handful of unsalted nuts.

Yoga/meditation. Schedule time that will quiet your mind and relax tired muscles. There are a number of classes available in the area. Contact me to help you find a class that suits your needs.

Get Moving Through the Holidays Or keep moving. Don't write off November and December to wait for the New Year. These are ways to ensure that you cruise your way right on through the “Holiday Triangle:” Incorporate activity daily. This includes yardwork and housework.

Make a new tradition – a healthy one. There are a number of activities that I have listed, but you may also consider registering for a 3K or a 5K road race, such as the Turkey Trot and Santa Run. Check your area for details.

Find a workout buddy. Having another person to motivate you when you need the extra push will keep you moving through the winter months when the days are shorter and weather is cooler.

Set Realistic Goals Weight loss is more than likely not going to happen over the holidays. You can, however, maintain your fitness, and embrace the joys of the season. Here are a few resources that you can utilize to help: Internet/YouTube. For workouts of all types, there are many to choose from.

Personal fitness tracker. These track your daily calorie burn and more.

Smartphone apps. These tools provide feedback based on your individual needs.

Personal Trainer. Consider hiring a trained professional who will design a program, and motivate and guide you through it, safely and effectively. V For more information, contact Laura at (702) 600-8953, lauradraskovich@yahoo.com, or at the Mesquite Fitness Club, (702) 346-3111.

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Giving the Gift of Golf

by Michelle Books, Ready Golf & Gear

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very year I write an article showcasing the best gifts in golf for the holidays. But I think we all know what our friends and loved ones like and we buy those gifts accordingly. You’ve got your GPS units, gloves, balls, tees, cute outfits and meaningful ball markers. But what if you’re buying for someone that doesn’t golf but would like to? Or what if you would like to play golf but you’re not sure how to get started? Then this article is for you. If none of the above, well hopefully it will be a fun read anyway.

But a golf store owner must play golf and Christmas just happened to be right around the corner. That year under the tree, addressed to me was a boxed set of golf clubs, balls, a glove, and a gift certificate for three golf lessons.

Once upon a time my husband and I lived in Las Vegas and desperately wanted to move to Mesquite. On one fateful morning in 2006 he just happened to be in Mesquite to play golf and realized he had forgotten golf balls. When he asked a local where the nearest golf store was, the answer he received, “You’ll have to go back to Las Vegas,” ignited a big idea in his brain and in 2008 Ready Golf & Gear opened for business.

Golf clubs. Ya can’t play without them, am I right? No, you cannot give your wife the old set in the garage! If you want your loved one to get the most out of the game and therefore continue playing with you, then it’s a good bet to get them their own set. No it doesn’t have to be expensive!

Like I mentioned before, my first set was a little boxed set that didn’t have any sort of brand name or a hefty price tag. At Ready Golf & Gear we carry excellent starter sets from Tour Edge that start at $299 which include all the clubs anyone would need to get going and they’re all packaged up with a nice matching golf bag.

Now, I was not a golfer at this time nor had I had any idea that I would like to be.

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In the eight years since the store opened we have had numerous customers come in looking for advice on how to get started.

Or they want their spouse or sister or whomever to join them in the fun and ask, “what should I get them to get started?”

Custom fitting for golf clubs. This is really fun and we have people surprise their “giftees” with this pretty often. This is what you do: Pick up a gift card for the amount you’d like to spend on clubs or you purchase the clubs that you think are the right ones. This way there is something to open. Then, when all the festivities are over you bring the receiver of your awesome gift in to see us. We provide custom club fitting services and we have fit everyone from brand new players to seasoned veterans for golf clubs. Your gift recipient can come in anytime and hit a few balls with our club fitters to determine the exact set (or club) that is right for him or her. This can be done with the Tour Edge starter sets as well as the mainstream name brands.

Golf lessons. The great thing about a new golfer is that they haven’t picked up any bad habits yet. Lessons provided by a golf professional can be found at most golf courses. There are also group clinics available. This is a great gift to get them started off doing all the right things and enjoying golf that much more.

Golf balls. Ya can’t play without those either. Now we know a beginning golfer often won’t hit one golf ball much better than the other so you’re probably not going to give them a box of Titleist Pro V1s. But it is also helpful to have a softer compression golf ball to help new golfers with slower swing speeds get the most distance. And, again, actually keep playing. We recommend the Srixon Q Star which decreases spin off the driver for straighter shots, quelling that slice a little bit, and the Wilson Duo Series.

Golf itself. We are talking about “the gift of golf” here so why not give actual golf? If you’ve got someone in your life who is just starting out or even if they’re a seasoned professional a great way to bring a smile to his or her face is to give them a certificate for a round of golf at a course they’ve had their eye on but just hadn’t gotten to play yet. If you don’t know what course that might be then pick your favorite. I’m sure your friend will be very thankful no matter how you choose.

So that’s it! If you’re looking for the perfect gift for the new golfer in your life or looking to get started yourself then you can’t go wrong with golf clubs, golf lessons, golf balls, and greens fees. All four and you’ve got the perfect superfecta! V Ready Golf & Gear is located at 550 W. Pioneer Blvd., Mesquite, NV. You can reach them at (702) 345-GOLF (4653), or check them out at www.readygolfandgear.com

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Annual Book Sale Benefits Reading Program for Local Students

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he Mesquite Chamber of Commerce and Mesquite Library will be holding its annual book sale on Saturday, November 5 from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Mesquite Library to benefit a special summer reading program for local students.

The community support for this event has been overwhelming.

Approximately 5,000 books have been donated and will be available to purchase at the book sale for bargain prices. All proceeds from the book sales will go to the Mesquite Reads Program that the Eureka Community Initiative, a non-profit charitable foundation, has established. The money raised at this event will help fund the special summer reading program at Virgin Valley Elementary School. The program targets children who are not reading at their appropriate grade level.

Donated books can still be dropped off at The Chamber of Commerce at 11 W. Pioneer Blvd, Mesquite, NV (2nd floor Bank of Nevada) or Keller Williams Realty, 754 West Pioneer #101, Mesquite, NV. For more information regarding the book sale, please contact the Mesquite Chamber of Commerce at (702) 346-2902. For more information on the Eureka Community Initiative, visit www.eurekacommunityinitiative.com.

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Moapa Valley OHV Roundup November 11-12, 2016 photos courtesy of MVRP and Hare Scramble

HISTORY: The Moapa Valley OHV Roundup semi annual event began in November 2015, after the Clark County Commissioners voted unanimously to approve an ordinance officially making Moapa Valley friendly to Off Highway Vehicle (OHV) use.

The OHV-friendly designation has been sought by community leaders for a long time. For five years or more, Partners in Conservation (PIC) Administrator Elise McAllister, of Moapa, has headed a special task force to make key local roadways legal for OHV use. The goal was to allow access to and from public lands on the periphery of the community.

The Moapa Valley OHV Roundup was organized to celebrate this first ever Clark County OHV Friendly Community designation. Each event has been bigger and better than the first one.

2016 MOAPA VALLEY OHV ROUNDUP The November 2016 Moapa Valley OHV Roundup will take place November 11-12, 2016 and will, of course, be bigger and better than ever. The main event staging will be at the Clark County Fairgrounds located at 1301 Whipple Ave., Logandale, Nevada.

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This event will feature the AMA National Finals Series Hare Scrambles. Autograph Sessions with the racers will take place Friday, November 11 from 5- 8 pm. The race will start Saturday, November 12 at 6 am.

The event will also include breakfast, lunch, dinner events, award ceremonies, live music, RV camping spots, and Logandale Trails maps and information.

The Moapa Valley OHV Roundup is a great place for off road enthusiasts to gather, stay, play, and discover all that Moapa Valley has to offer for Off Road Riding.

The Logandale Trails offer miles and miles of trails and side trails, with amazing scenery, fiery red rocks, Native American Petroglyphs, and the best off road trails in the area.

VETERAN’S DAY 2016 This year Veteran’s Day falls on Friday November 11, and we invite one and all to join us in celebrating the freedom to ride in the Moapa Valley Veteran’s Day Parade.

Vendor Booths are available. More information is available on the website.

LODGING: • RV Spaces at the Clark County Fairgrounds are available by reservation • Dry Camping at the Clark County Fairgrounds is available by reservation • Dry Camping is available at the Logandale Trails on a first come, first served basis.

• Motel rooms are available at the North Shore Inn in Overton, NV. Details are available on the event page.

For more information, please visit www.playinourdirt.com.

Shop, Eat, Play Moapa Valley

view on GOLF

You Want to Play Golf Where? story and photos by Rob Krieger – PGA Golf Professional

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ack in July, I traveled to play golf in Ireland and Scotland. The express purpose of my trip was to experience the history of the game and attend the British Open. However, I recently returned from the beautiful islands of Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora, where playing golf was not my priority but it certainly added to a great vacation.

The South Pacific is known for its 50 shades of electric blue water, surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, riding wave runners, and outrigger adventures that let you swim with black tip and lemon sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles. Golf is not the first activity that comes to mind when visiting there but I was very happy to discover that there were two courses on the Tahiti and Moorea islands. Yes, there is golf in French Polynesia, and with all the

water excursions to enjoy, it was a great way to enjoy – on land – one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

On the island of Moorea, which is a sister island to Tahiti and a short 40 minute ferry ride across the sea, one of the golf courses is a Jack Nicklaus design named The Green Pearl. Built 10 years ago, it is undergoing some renovations with new ownership to get it up to Australian PGA standards and is a gem of a layout. They have new carts, new mowing equipment, new merchandise in the pro shop, new rental clubs, and soon even better course conditions as they go from the dry season to the rainy season. Yann Teagai, the new General Manager, and his staff, provided great service, and were nice enough to have a course employee pick us up at the pier and drive us to the course. They

were so accommodating they even let us play as a sixsome so we could all play together. For me, it was a huge contrast in weather, layout, and scenery from what I experienced just six weeks prior in the chilly UK. I never expected to find golf in Polynesia but it shows how global and attractive golf is in all parts of the world to all people.

I was joined by five others (Ron, Greg, Dick, Al, and Candy) from our group of 28 that traveled on the cruise. My main reason for playing golf was to see what kind of course was in this tropical paradise and experience Jack’s design, because he doesn’t just build courses anywhere. But I also wanted to know why the other five in our gang wanted to take the day and go play some golf. Their answers were:

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“I can say I played golf in the South Pacific. I didn’t know there was golf here so I wanted to try it and we had a blast.”

“I wanted to be on land for a day after being on the cruise ship and snorkeling.

I love the water but wanted to see the island from a different perspective.”

“I wanted to experience something that many would never get to do. I am glad I did it and I am going to encourage others to do it too.”

“I wanted to see how it compared to Hawaii. This fit very well into the laid back attitude of the island and was a fun challenge.”

“I wanted to test my game on a different course and play a game I really enjoy. This was cool and the views of the course, island, ocean, and Tahiti in the background were awesome.”

Let me add, none of us brought our clubs, we all rented them, and most of

us played in our tennis shoes. We didn’t take our game too seriously except there was some friendly competition to add to our enjoyment which gave us some memorable stories to share later. Let’s just say that the sharks weren’t just in the water.

That’s why golf is an amazing activity and can always be a part of a vacation.

You can play it regardless of location, age, expertise, or culture. It is a game for everyone and anywhere, whether you were planning to play or not. So go play.

Fairways and Greens! V

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Holiday Boutique in Mesquite Mesquite Fine Arts Center Holiday Boutique Opens with Book Signing and Reading of "Christmas Eve in Mesquite"

by Debbi Swanson Patrick esquite may not be the first place people think of at the holidays, but this year they'll have a delightful new reason. To kick off the Mesquite Fine Arts Gallery annual Holiday Boutique on November 21, come meet the author and the illustrator of "Christmas Eve in Mesquite." Author Barb King and illustrator Diana Coonradt will be signing and reading from this charming tale of how an angry desert wind scares Santa's reindeer and nearly cancels Christmas. The Gallery's Christmas Boutique opens at 10 am and the reading will be from 4 - 7 pm.

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King, originally from Pennsylvania, is a former teacher who has written plays, stories, and poems, as well as produced driving tours. All that combines for a joyful rhyming story set in Mesquite.

King says of the book, "I hope you find as much enjoyment in reading this Christmas tale told in verse as I did in solving the problems encountered by Santa as he flies over the desert bringing gifts." Coonradt, originally from Colorado, is a gallery member and volunteer who found the joy of oil painting and never looked back.

"We're excited that this book-signing is for a story about Mesquite," says gallery president Kat Cole. "It adds another

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element to our boutique, already special because it features all things 100% handmade. We'll have a huge assortment of unique art gifts at various prices."

Previous boutiques have had jewelry, ceramics, stained glass, paintings and other wall art, cards, sculpture, leather goods, Christmas decorations, scarves, and other items made of fabric, wood, and metal. "It's always a surprise to see what our artists and community members contribute," adds Cole.

Adding to the boutique ambiance is the "Lucky 13" Small Works Competition on exhibit in the galleries during the sale. All work in the competition is no larger than 13" X 13" and priced to sell, providing even more gift options. The reception and awards ceremony for the competition, open to the public, is Nov 17 from 4 - 6 pm.

Boutique hours are the same as the gallery's: Mon-Sat, 10 am - 4 pm, through December 31, with extended evening hours until 7 pm the first week, November 21 - 26. "Lucky 13"

closes December 31. Mesquite Fine Arts Gallery is located at 15 W. Mesquite Blvd, Mesquite, Nevada.V For more information on other shows, workshops, and classes, visit www.mesquitefineartscenter.com or call (702) 346-1338.

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Colorful Holiday Plant s view on GARDENING

and How to Care for Them

by Paul “Dr. Q” Noe Staff Horticulturist/Certified Horticulture Advisor, Star Nursery

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he holiday season is here already and it’s time to start decorating our homes for the festive occasions ahead. Poinsettias are the most traditional of the colorful plants that will decorate most homes. These are popular because of their large, colorful flowers which are actually leaves, called bracts, and the flower is only the small yellow growth in the middle of the colorful bracts. For years poinsettias have had the bad reputation of being poisonous. They certainly are

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not meant to be eaten by humans or pets and ingesting poinsettias would probably cause some stomach upset, as would eating most any houseplant. They are a member of the euphorbia family that have a milky white sap that can cause an itchy rash, or other problems, for people with sensitive skin or have allergies to other plants or flowers. However, poinsettias have undergone extensive testing and there is no evidence that they are toxic or unsafe to have in the house.

By following a few basic rules, you can keep these beautiful plants looking great from now through the end of the year. You should keep the soil moist. Don’t let them dry out completely, but don’t let them stay soggy wet either. Water thoroughly and discard all the drainage – they don’t like to stand in water. The kitchen sink is a good place to do your watering, and when you do, remove the foil wrap from your pots and let the water completely drain out of the pot before replacing the foil. Water

A Variety of Colorful Mums

again when the soil surface feels dry to the touch. Select a place to put them that has bright, indirect, natural light. The location should be free from hot or cold drafts, like vents, fans, or fireplaces. Don’t display a poinsettia near an entrance door since you’ll create a draft every time it’s opened and closed. Maintain a temperature of 6575 degrees during the day and no lower than 60 degrees at night. It’s best to keep your poinsettias out of the reach of small children and pets because the plant is fragile and breaks very easily.

Other colorful plants for the holidays include Christmas cactus, which can be an indoor plant all year long and bloom several times a year. These bright flowering Zygocactus are most commonly seen in colors of red, pink, orange, white, or lavender and can be

used as a patio plant during the warmer season. Cyclamen can be used indoors or as an outdoor shade plant for winter color. Chrysanthemums are also colorful, decorative plants that are a perennial and can be planted in the yard after the holiday season. They will bloom during the fall and again in the spring.

All of these plants take about the same care as an indoor plant and make great holiday gifts, as well as colorful decorations for your own home. V For more information: Star Nursery (702) 771-7827 | www.starnursery.com | paulnoe@starnursery.com Christmas Cactus

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S out he rn U tah 's Spi r it

G i ving of

by Alexa V. Morgan

November 17-21, 2016 Jubilee of Trees The Jubilee of Trees, a southern Utah holiday tradition benefiting the advancement of women’s and newborn services at Dixie Regional Medical Center, comes alive Nov 17-21. There’s something for everyone, from the dazzling designer trees of the Enchanted Forest to crafts and activities at the Li’l Elf Workshoppe.

The Bar J Wranglers concert, Teddy Bear Picnic, St. George Area Chamber of Commerce Luncheon, fashion show luncheon, and gala dinner and auction will be held in conjunction with the main event, all at the Dixie Center, 1835 S. Convention Center Dr. in St. George. This year, anyone with a smartphone can pre-register via gesture.com before Nov 11 and bid on silent auction items either from their seats at the gala or the comfort of their own living room.

General admission is open daily from 10 am to 8 pm (10 am to 4 pm on Friday) and costs $5 for adults or $1 for kids ages 15 and under. There are additional fees for the special events. For more information on volunteering, making a donation, or to obtain tickets, visit dixieregional.org/jubileeoftrees or call (435) 251-2480. photos courtesy of Terri Draper/Intermountain Healthcare

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November 24, 2016 Red Rock Canyon School Community Thanksgiving Dinner The Red Rock Canyon School is hosting its annual community dinner on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov 24, from 11 am to 4 pm. It is free for low-income families, college students, seniors, the homeless—no one is turned away. Organizers are prepared to serve a crowd of over 3,000.

Donations of turkeys, pies, and rolls will be gratefully accepted, as well as volunteers to help the students and faculty in serving the food. The school is located at 747 E. St. George Blvd. in St. George. To get involved, contact Tami McCloughan at (435) 673-6111.

December 3, 2016 Breakfast with Santa Dixie State University Community Education is partnering with the student government to host the 10th annual Breakfast with Santa, a fundraiser for the KidSpace after-school literacy program and STEM curriculum at Sandstone Elementary School. For a suggested donation, families will have the opportunity to enjoy a delicious warm breakfast and get their picture taken with Santa Claus and his elves.

Breakfast with Santa will be held from 9-11 am on Saturday, Dec 3 in the Gardner Center at DSU, 225 S. University Ave., St. George. Volunteers to help prepare and serve the meal, along with donations of breakfast food items, are welcome. Contact Beth Thode at (435) 879-4251 to learn more.

December 14-16, 2016 Coins for Kids Help make Christmas special for at-risk kids by donating cash or a new toy and dropping spare change into one of the Coins for Kids donation boxes that will start popping up around town in November. About 1,800 kids from 625 families received gifts last year.

Coins for Kids also recruits youngsters for Shop with a Cop, a collaboration between public safety agencies held the second Saturday of December. The application window to be one of the selected families is open from Monday, Nov 29 to Thursday, Dec 1 at the main offices of the Washington County School District, 121 W. Tabernacle St. in St. George.

Shopping at Walmart will begin at 5 pm on Wednesday, Dec 14. Anyone interested in helping wrap presents can show up at the Dixie Center on Thursday, Dec 15 from 8 am onward. Presents will be delivered on Friday, Dec 16 starting at 4 pm. To volunteer, visit coinsforkids.net or sign up via JustServe.org.

December 25, 2016 Community Soup Kitchen Christmas Dinner The Community Soup Kitchen, a division of Switchpoint, will serve a free midday Christmas dinner on Sunday, Dec 25 at the Elks Lodge, 630 West 1250 North in St. George. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the festivities.

There will be gifts for all children in cooperation with Toys for Tots, entertainment from various musical groups, and a visit from Santa.

Food is provided by the Dixie Elks, the Utah Food Bank, and the local Bishops’ Storehouse.

Anyone who wishes to volunteer may sign up by sending an email with their name and phone number to stgsoupkitchen@gmail.com.

All November and December Southern Utah Toys for Tots Each year, Southern Utah Toys for Tots makes the holiday season a little sweeter for more than 3,000 local children and their families.

Approximately 14,000 new, unwrapped toys and books were distributed in 2015. The drive provides toys to Coins for Kids, The Learning Center for Families, Switchpoint, the DOVE Center, and the Children’s Justice Center, among others.

photo courtesy of Coins for Kids

Throughout November and December, collection boxes will be placed at local businesses. Visit toysfortots.org to donate money, volunteer help, request toys, or locate the nearest drop-off location.

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Mesquite Chamber of Commerce Honors Membership at 2016 Holiday Gala

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he Mesquite Chamber of Commerce is pulling out all the stops for a glitzy holiday gala to be held December 3 in the ballroom at the Rising Star Sports Ranch Resort. Chamber Chairman Noel Smith along with the 2016 Board of Directors, Dave Ballweg, Dave Bennett, Kathy Lee, Kathy Poindexter, Keith Bucchalter, Jeff Powell, Darlene Montague, Jayne Kendrick, along with Chamber Office Administrator Brenda Snell and volunteer Helen Houston are organizing an elegant evening tailored to honor the membership.

Champagne, a sumptuous plated dinner, raffle prize tickets, live entertainment, and dancing are part of the all-inclusive price.

This gala promises to deliver an evening of extraordinary high

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style merriment. All Chamber of Commerce members are invited, as well as community leaders and those interested in Chamber membership.

The Mesquite Chamber of Commerce is proud of its membership of 246, which we would like to celebrate. The 2016 Holiday Gala is the perfect way to show appreciation while continuing positive momentum into the new year.

Please visit the Mesquite Chamber of Commerce website, www.mesquitenvchamber.com, or call the office at (702) 346-2902 for more information or to reserve seats today for this not-to-be missed wonderful and rewarding holiday event. V

view on THE ARTS

ARTé Gallery photos courtesy ARTé Gallery

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n occasion our adventures land us upon a particular café, a hide-away restaurant, or an unexplored trail that exhilarates the senses, elevates the mood, and moves us in a unique way.

One such treasure worth the find is ARTé Gallery in St. George, Utah. Located minutes off I-15 by Sunbrook Golf Course is an ancient business warehouse, ARTé, which, over a period of almost nine years, has evolved into an eclectic urban style gallery of over 400 artworks. Decorated in wall murals, original art, photography, sculptures, stained glass, and collectibles, ARTé is a great place to visit. ARTé also offers custom picture framing.

"We stay very busy in our framing facility," owner Philip Moulton explains, himself being a very accomplished artist and framer. "Our 18 years of framing, coupled with 3,000 ft of in-stock moulding, and over 500 full sized mats allows us to be the

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fastest and best priced framing option I'm aware of."

He and his wife Brenda have been active in the art and framing scene for many years. Their first venture in art and framing was Art Visions Mobile Picture Framing in Las Vegas, in 1996. A New York entrepreneur purchased Art Visions in 2001 and it is still a very busy shop.

Moving to Mesquite that same year, Philip and Brenda opened Mesquite Art and Frame inside the historic Abbott Hotel on the corner of Mesquite and Sandhill Boulevards. "We were quite shocked when we began experiencing the presence of several spirits that frequented that old house," Brenda explains. "The mysterious little quirks became common. One year, we opened up the gallery a couple nights as a Halloween haunted house. It scared a lot of kids, and adults commented that they sensed an unusual presence there."

The Mesquite Gallery had large bronzes decorating both the inside and outside of the gallery. The gallery hosted several events such as semi-annual art fairs, a Navajo Pow-wow, Children's Arts events, and a week long African cultural event with African foods, artworks, and dances.

"The economy was booming, so in 2006, we opened our second gallery, Galleria ARTe, across from the hospital," states Moulton.

“This gallery was small, but very beautiful, hosting private get-togethers, and offering an elevated collection of artworks.” In 2007, the economic slide began. Galleria ARTe was forced to close, and sell-out its eclectic inventory.

The Moultons' daughter was selected to attend Tuacahn High School, and commuted there with a friend the first year. They chose to move to Ivins, Utah, close to the school, and Mesquite Art and Frame closed its doors after its seven year

run, leaving behind great memories, great friends, and the invisible residents of the Abbott Hotel. ARTé Gallery and Frame was born in a 100 sq. ft. office at the Sunbrook Ranch complex. Since that meager beginning, ARTé has grown to over 7,000 sq. ft.

"We couldn't help it," Philip explains. "Art is just in our hearts." This passion for art and design, coupled with the entrepreneurial drive they both possess, during a deflating economy, ARTé thrived, battled, and survived.

"We've seen over 10 galleries these eight years just vanish in our area," explains Moulton. "We owe our success, meager as it is, to God first, to each other, and of course, to the wonderful individuals who are drawn to support the depleting mom and pop enterprises."

Brenda adds, “We offer the ARTé location for gatherings of many sorts. There have been art groups, wine clubs, business groups, recitals, birthday parties, concerts, and lots of other fun games and art related events. It is a perfect location for up to 75 people to enjoy any type of gathering.”

While corporations and the internet gobble up so much of the American pie of commerce, there still exist some pioneers that eke out a meager slice. They gratefully, and persistently, are driven to serve and provide uniqueness to the public – hopefully at a profit. To keep the community thriving, seek out such enterprises on your own adventures, and you just may stumble upon a special treasure like ARTé. V For more information, visit ARTé Gallery and Frame, located at 415 S. Dixie Dr. in St George, Utah, their website at www.artegalleryandframe.com, or call (435) 862-0303.

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view on BUSINESS

Catering to Your Every Event Need

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heir motto is “When it just has to be perfect," but when it came to starting their catering company, it was anything but for Kelly Shannon and Doug Naetzel. Katering Koncepts, the upscale catering and event rental company, was born out of necessity. 2008 saw Naetzel’s thriving construction business diminish

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along with the economy. Shannon, having graduated from the Culinary Academy in Los Angeles, turned to her catering skills to bridge the gap.

With a history of throwing parties in their own home for hundreds of friends, the couple simply took that approach to

Katering Koncepts; every single customer would be treated as a friend and their events would be perfect in every detail.

“When a client calls in, they have an idea of what they want, and we help put the details into the idea to make sure nothing is missed as well as provide options,” says Shannon. When dealing with a once in a

lifetime moment like a marriage proposal, there are no details too small. One such proposal in particular involved decorating an entire hotel suite with appetizers, champagne, candles, and even rose petals.

What truly sets Katering Koncepts apart is the willingness to listen and counsel with clients. “I want to know each client. I need to know exactly what they want and expect so that I can make sure we give them the event and memories they are looking for,” says Shannon. This extra time spent working with clients is part of the additional value they provide. “Many times clients call just looking for a price but after we are able to walk through the event and the expectations, they realize that we are a different kind of company. Our success is built on the client loving our events. We have had long standing relationships with many of our clients and we are very proud of this,” says Shannon.

Katering Koncepts is a full service catering and rental company serving the Northern Mojave Desert, Washington County, and

Iron Counties in Utah, as well as Mesquite, Nevada. With a history of serving intimate parties for two all the way up to serving events of over 2,000 as they did for the St. George air show, they have the experience and commitment to make the event one of

a kind. Katering Koncepts has the ability to provide for your company’s gourmet box lunch or breakfast buffet to your sit down formal Christmas party and anything else you can imagine. They can provide everything necessary to make your event

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a success including tables, chairs, linens, formal dishware, stemware, bartenders, and everything else necessary. In addition to corporate events, they also provide complete meal service for families and gatherings.

While running a successful catering business and raising four children hasn’t been an easy task for the couple, they work together well to utilize their individual strengths. While Kelly is busy running the kitchen, meeting with clients, and keeping the office running smoothly, Doug is out and about as the spokesman, making rental deliveries, meeting with clients, and representing Katering Koncepts in the community with organizations including the St. George Area Chamber of Commerce, Washington City Chamber of Commerce, Mesquite Chamber of Commerce, Red Cross, Dixie Sunshiners, and a number of professional organizations such as Corporate Alliance and BNI. Doug is passionate about meeting new people and learning about them.

Head out in public with Doug and you will more than likely run into someone he knows. “We love this community and being an active part of It.” says Naetzel. V For more information visit www.kateringkoncepts.com, or call (435) 574-0059.

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This foundation is the vision of Wolf Creek owner Cory Clemetson and the executive team. With the dedication and hard work of the Advisory Committee, Grant Committee, and all the volunteers, the vision became a reality.

The success of the foundation is gratifying and would not be possible if it weren’t for the outpouring of support from the community, local businesses, schools, coaches, and so many more. The generosity has allowed the Kids for Sports Foundation to award grants to children that represent 17 different sports from soccer to swimming. V

“Helping children live their dream by playing sports”

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olf Creek is proud to be hosting the 3rd Annual Kids for Sports Foundation Charity Golf Tournament on January 14, 2017.

Registration for the tournament will be available November 1, 2016.

It’s hard to imagine the tremendous impact the Kids for Sports Foundation has had on

the community. An idea just three years ago, and now a fully functioning 501(c)(3) foundation that over the past two years has collected hundreds of grant applications, and has awarded over 200 grants totaling close to $20,000 for the kids in the area. To consider this foundation a success would be a gross understatement.

The Kids for Sports Mission Statement: “To ensure all kids are given the opportunity to experience the positive benefits of playing organized sports. We do this by helping remove financial and other barriers that prevent kids from participation in sports.”

For additional details about the tournament, contact nancyh@golfwolfcreek.com, or www.kidsforsportsfoundation.org.

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On The Town Great events are going on in southern Utah on a daily basis.

Here, we bring you just a fraction of what’s happened lately.

by Alexa V. Morgan

BAM Dog Day Spectacular

photos courtesy of September Smith/Because Animals Matter

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he Hurricane Community Center went to the dogs on Saturday, September 10 for the Dog Day Spectacular, hosted by Because Animals Matter. The event kicked off with the sixth annual Walk for the Animals. Agility courses, vendor booths, and entertainment from DJ Lex were among the day’s highlights. Four rescue groups and three shelters exhibited adoptable dogs.

This year’s Dog Day Spectacular saw more participants (both human and canine) and sponsorships than ever before. Revenue generated by the event helps support BAM’s programs and services, including low-cost spay and neuter, Kibbles on Wheels, the community pet food pantry, humane education, microchipping of foster animals, fundraising for the City of Hurricane Dog Park, and Meika’s Memorial Medical Fund. “The Dog Day Spectacular is more than just a fundraiser for us,” BAM President September Smith says. “The annual event provides a venue for Washington County animal lovers to get together in a fun environment to interact with their own dogs, and other people's dogs.”

BAM’s new thrift store on State Street in Hurricane, That BAM Place, held its soft opening over the same weekend. Donations of gently used household goods, artwork, jewelry, and other items (excluding clothing), as well as monetary contributions, are being accepted during business hours—10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday.

Visit becauseanimalsmatter.com to find out how BAM makes a difference in the lives of southern Utah’s pets.

Santa Clara Swiss Days The Swiss Days finale on Saturday, September 24 opened with a fun community tradition that some 3,000 southern Utahns attend each year: the parade. Sirens blaring and horns honking, the floats charged down Santa Clara Drive, a tree-lined route that has retained its historical small-town charm despite the area’s continuing growth. Almost every home displays a uniquely decorated wooden cow in the front yard during Swiss Days, which are then awarded ribbons for creativity and execution.

More than 200 classic rides from Utah, Nevada, and Arizona rolled into Canyon View Park for a car show that lasted the better part of the day. Pioneer-themed crafts and other family activities, dozens of vendor booths, a golf tournament, Mayor’s Walk, continuous live entertainment, and a 5K run rounded out the weekend festival.

Swiss Days is Santa Clara’s annual celebration of heritage and community, honoring the courageous and resourceful Swiss Mormon pioneers who made the trek from the Salt Lake Valley to homestead the area during the 1860s and the legacy they left behind.

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Sout hern Ut ah

Ivins Heritage Days

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bronze monument representing the culture of Ivins “now and then” stands proudly amid the roundabout at the intersection of Snow Canyon Parkway, Snow Canyon Drive, and Center Street. It is a collage of five figures—a Native American boy (the Shivwits reservation), an artist (Kayenta), a hiker (Snow Canyon State Park), a singer (Tuacahn), and a farmer (the pioneer days)—bound together by local flora and fauna. The statue was designed and created by renowned artist Edward Hlavka, who also sculpted the “Freedom Eagle” at the Southern Utah Veterans Home and “The Mustangs,” a centerpiece for the roundabout on Snow Canyon Parkway at the entrance to Ivins.

The piece was commissioned in 2013 and, after several delays, officially dedicated with a small ceremony on Friday, September 16 during the city’s annual Heritage Days festival. “I thank you all for your patience, and for believing in me,” Hlavka told the crowd.

Heritage Days continued through Saturday, September 17, offering such family-friendly fun as the Mayor’s Walk, a movie in the park, and a soap box derby.

SUAG “End of Summer Blues” Art Show images courtesy of John Mangels/Southern Utah Art Guild

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he Southern Utah Art Guild’s “End of Summer Blues” art show and sale at the Red Cliff Gallery in downtown St. George featured 132 works of art from 57 local artists in a variety of mediums, including painting, photography, pottery, and sculpture.

Pieces remained on display from September 2 to October 14.

The winners were revealed at an artist reception on Friday, September 9. “Valley of My Roots,” an oil by Victoria Denning, was awarded Best of Show. Nancy Lamb’s watercolor “Sea Captain Waiting for Low Tide,” Deann Rex’s oil 1st place “Sea Captain Waiting for Low Tide” by “Summertime,” and Annie Barber’s Nancy Lamb watercolor “Breakfast on the Beach” took first, second, and third place, respectively. Six other pieces received honorable mentions. The show was judged by Brian Passey of The Spectrum.

Victoria Denning with Best of Show “Valley of My Roots”

SUAG is a nonprofit collective of more than 200 amateur and professional artists from the greater Washington County area. The guild hosts shows throughout the year and is currently organizing a series of classes and workshops for anyone interested in developing their talent. Visit www.southernutahartguild.com for more information.

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Some Chocolat e Each Day May Keep Ailments Away Health Tip by: Catherine King, APRN, CDE

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hocolate is often seen as an occasional, indulgent treat. But studies show that small amounts of chocolate, the kind that contains natural cocoa and not processed chocolate, may actually produce health benefits.

A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition analyzed the chocolate consumption of more than 1,000 people between the

ages of 18 and 69. Those who consumed an average of nearly an ounce of chocolate per day were found to have reduced risk of developing diabetes and heart disease. When researchers accounted for other factors such as age, gender, lifestyle, education, and diet, the results remained the same.

About the author: Catherine King earned her Master’s in Nursing and her certification as a Nurse Practitioner in 2002 from Ohio’s Otterbein University.

After having an opportunity to manage patients with diabetes and other chronic conditions, she was inspired to become a Certified Diabetes Educator, which she achieved in 2006. With this experience she educates and treats patients with diabetes, pre-diabetes and teaches diabetes prevention.

Catherine is also experienced with other chronic conditions including congestive heart failure, lipid disorders, and COPD. She is committed to working with each patient in managing their own health and formulates treatment plans that work best for the individual. Catherine King is now accepting new patients at Mesa View Medical Group, 1301 Bertha Howe Avenue Suite #1, Mesquite, NV. She can be reached at (702) 346-0800, or visit www.mesaviewmedical.com.

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Are Your Boots Made for Walkin’?

Health Tip by: Landon Cameron, DPM

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our favorite four-inch heels and ballet flats make fierce fashion statements, but they can also take a toll on your body. The type of shoe you wear impacts the way you walk and the amount of stress placed on your feet, knees, hips, back, and ankles when you take a step. If you routinely wear high heels, flat shoes that offer little support, or shoes that are too tight, you may be setting yourself up for future orthopedic troubles.

As a general rule, you should look for supportive shoes that have a wide or square toe box and a heel lower than two inches, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). Flats should offer arch support or easily accommodate an orthotic insert, pass the “bend test” – which means they don’t easily fold in the middle – and fit comfortably with no stretching required. When shopping for sandals and flip flops, the AAOS recommends choices that have ankle straps and cork, instead of rubber, soles. Finally, plan to shop for shoes in the evening. Feet swell during the day, and evening trips guarantee a better fit.

About the author: After receiving his Bachelor of Science from Brigham Young University, Dr. Cameron earned his Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine from Temple University of Podiatric Medicine in Philadelphia, PA. He then completed his residency in podiatry at Hunt Regional Medical Center in Greenville, TX. Dr. Cameron believes in listening carefully to fully understand what the patient is looking for in treatment. He explains his treatment recommendations in detail and believes in utilizing the most conservative approaches possible to benefit patient outcomes. He provides a broad range of services including ankle fracture repair and surgical reconstruction.

Mesa View Regional Hospital welcomes Landon T. Cameron, DPM, as an independent member of the Medical Staff. Dr. Cameron is now providing full-time Podiatry services in Mesquite for patients of all ages and conditions at Coral Desert Foot and Ankle, 1301 Bertha Howe Avenue Suite #10 in the building next to the hospital.

He can be reached at (702) 346-0203 or by visiting www.coraldesertfoot.com.

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view on SEASONAL RECIPES

Holiday Recipes Pomegranate Holiday Salad

by Helen Houston This Christmas salad is full of flavor and different textures including the crunchy pecans, the juicy oranges, and creamy cheese.

Ingredients: 2 bunches Swiss chard, chopped (6 cups) 2 oranges, peeled and chopped 1/2 cup pecans 3 tablespoons brown sugar 1/2 cup crumbled bleu cheese 1/2 cup fresh pomegranate seeds Dressing: 1/2 cup olive oil 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar Juice from 1 large orange 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 tablespoon orange zest

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Directions:

Over medium heat, add brown sugar, 1-2 tablespoons of water and pecans to a pan. Cook for a few minutes until sugar mixture is thick and toasted pecans are coated.

Combine all ingredients for dressing and whisk well. On a plate, arrange Swiss chard. Top with oranges, pecans, bleu cheese and pomegranate seeds. Top with dressing.

Pomegranates should be refrigerated; they'll last at least three to four weeks. Once they've been seeded, the seeds also can be frozen in a tightly sealed bag.

Rocky Road Bark

by Julia Daly-Vedd This sweet treat became a favorite after last year's holiday issue ran an article that featured this recipe. It's simple and to the point, but still oh so good.

Ingredients: 10oz of your favorite chocolate chips (I use Ghirardelli) 1 1/2 cups salted almonds, chopped or full 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows

Directions:

Melt your chocolate your favorite way until smooth. Add the almonds and marshmallows. Spread on a parchment lined cookie sheet.

Sprinkle the top with chopped almonds or for extra holiday flair, melt some white chocolate and zig-zag the top with a fork. Chill for about 10 minutes or until firm. Split with a fork. Done!

This can be doubled well.

A couple notes: Make sure to use salted almonds and not just regular roasted almonds. The salt adds a deeper flavor and gives this bark the perfect sweet and salty combo.

Your palate, your preference: If you’re not a fan of dark chocolate, milk chocolate will work just as well.

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Mesquite to Celebrate Its Veterans 2016 will mark the 19th year of the Mesquite Veterans Day parade. Mesquite’s parade was started by a local veteran, Louis Alberto Nieves Sr. His family participates every year in his honor.

The parade committee consists of Harold and Pat Straley, Roger Gessel and Al Litman. Donations take care of the mailings and publicity. There is no cost to participate. Each year we have expanded the parade, making it the second largest in the state. Having this parade is important and necessary to honor those who have sacrificed to provide freedom for our nation, to our veterans of the past, our fellow comrades presently in the armed forces, and our future veterans of tomorrow and beyond.

The Veterans Day parade allows no political campaigning or direct advertising of a business or promoting of religious beliefs.

Participants are encouraged to maintain a patriotic theme; we expressly honor our veterans and military personnel.

The parade will take place the morning of Saturday, November 5, on West Mesquite Blvd., Mesquite, NV.

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Happy, He Holisti

by Laurie Nelson Barker

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t’s no secret that I am vegan. It’s also no secret that I try to convince many of my friends, family, and clients to adopt a plant-based diet. I am vegan mainly because I love animals, and not with steak sauce on them.

Incredible health is an additional benefit. I have always had an aversion to eating something that had motor skills and I gave up my carnivorous ways over 20 years ago. I guess it’s not a fad. I don’t think I will ever resume eating meat in my lifetime. I just can’t do it and I can no longer even tolerate the smell of barbeque or a roasted turkey. My husband cooks the occasional meat he eats on our outdoor grill even in winter. It’s karma and the price he pays for his decadence. If I had my way, there would be 10 feet of snow, 50 MPH winds and no electricity, but I guess God doesn’t work that way.

My animal product aversion presents a challenge, especially around the holidays. Potlucks are scary. There are hidden animal products in everything. Milk, eggs, gelatin, beef and lard lurk in baked goods and many processed foods contain milk, whey, casein, eggs, and gelatin. There are often small chunks of meat or shrimp in salads. There is an amusing YouTube video that surfaces around the holidays. In it, a woman wearing an apron and holding cooking implements is singing about the trials of trying to please all her holiday guests’ eating idiosyncrasies.

One eats gluten free, one is lactose intolerant, one won’t eat sugar, and another is vegan. It’s hilarious. I understand her frustration. I sometimes try to make something vegan that is gluten free and doesn’t contain oils, for some of my pickier vegan friends and it’s difficult, even for me. Fortunately, these friends are great vegan cooks and always have some quick easy recipes available.

I have learned a few holiday “survival” strategies. They apply, no matter your eating style. My goal is to help others transition to a healthier lifestyle, not demand that they change everything immediately. Sometimes I really want to point out eating errors, and talk about how we can save the planet and eliminate animal suffering, but shaming people into compliance never works, especially on my spouse. So, following is the strategy that works for me.

Eat before you go.

This is controversial because you could end up eating twice, but I know that there will be many things served that I will not eat. Therefore, I let the host know ahead of time that I will bring something substantial and maybe a dessert as well. That way, I’m satisfied and can have a small glass

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althy, c Holidays of wine without ending up face down in the non-vegan desserts.

Drink water before you go.

Water will fill you up and make you happy. Yes, I know it increases your chance of frequent bathroom visits but every holiday party I have ever attended is restroom accessible.

3. If you are bringing a popular and especially delicious or unique dish, bring copies of the recipe. I learned this at a fundraiser that I organized last September. It was an outdoor party dedicated to celebrating animals. Therefore, it seemed appropriate not to serve them. I asked both my vegan and non-vegan friends to make plant-based food and the result was amazing. I would venture to say that no one attending missed the animal products. One sticking point, though, was cheese. I get it. I love cheese too. So, Barbara Mathison, one of my vegan friends who is an incredible chef, made some to-die-for vegan cheeses and provided recipes. It was a hit. I’m so glad I grabbed the recipes for myself because she has it figured out. There are no preservatives or unpronounceable ingredients, just whole food, plant based “cheez” that tastes better than cheese.

4. If you are eating at a restaurant try to be as polite as possible when ordering. If the restaurant of choice is a steakhouse and you are vegan, my advice would be to politely decline, unless it’s a family event or work related, or you really want to go. If that is the case, pick the least offensive thing. It’s OK to ask the server what is in a dish.

It’s also OK to order the chicken salad without the chicken, just don’t expect to receive a discount or special treatment because of eating preferences.

5. There is a difference between “can’t eat it" and "won’t eat it.” I could eat animal products and not die (I think) if I were starving. I won’t eat animal products because I’m not starving and I have a choice. This rule applies unless you are among the minority that has celiac disease, or are deathly allergic to nuts or shellfish. If you are going to look like a blowfish after eating something, it’s best not to eat it, but there is such a thing as too much information. I don’t think it’s necessary to tell people that something gives you explosive diarrhea, or that you won’t be able to breathe, or that the last time you ate that item you were violently ill.

Nothing puts a damper on the holiday spirit like a guilt trip.

You may never get an invitation again if your host or hostess thinks that they may accidently kill you. Just saying. V

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Have Your Best Hol

by Judi Moreo he hustle and bustle of the holiday season is upon us. We are in danger of getting caught up in the hectic pace of getting all of the decorating, shopping, cooking, and visiting done along with our regular schedule of activities.

Many of us travel to visit family and old friends and host or attend holiday gatherings and celebrations. But it is also a time to celebrate peace. It is a time to allow ourselves to renew and regenerate our energy.

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How do we accomplish this and still manage all of the other things that are expected of us? We do it by incorporating some new habits into our days.

First, do no harm – to yourself or to anyone else. It sounds simple enough. Most of us would not deliberately run head on into a brick wall. And yet, our words and actions create invisible walls that we crash into all the time. Treat yourself and those around you with respect and kindness.

Allow yourself to think and act spontaneously. Don’t base your actions

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on past experiences or “what ifs” and fears. It’s a new day. Let yourself enjoy the moment. Leave yourself time for an unexpected guest or a cup of tea. Allow yourself to have fun, laugh, and find new ways to solve problems and deal with challenges.

Learn to say no. You can’t do everything, so don’t even try. Even though parties and activities are fun, too many activities can leave you stressed and exhausted. It may seem impossible, but stop doing things that irritate you. There are only 24 hours in a day. Not everyone can do everything.

Do the things you can and stop beating yourself up for the things you don’t get done. Your time and energy can be better spent showing appreciation for the people that are truly important in your life.

Stick to your healthy habits. Holidays are a time when food, especially sugary desserts, are plentiful. Don’t over indulge.

This will cause you to feel even more stressed, and when the holidays are over and you’ve gained a pound or two, you will be angry with yourself. So, eat something

iday Season Ever! healthy before you go to holiday parties or events so you won’t be hungry and tempted to eat everything in sight. Drink plenty of water. Be sure to exercise a minimum of 20 minutes every day (this can be as simple as taking a walk) and get plenty of sleep.

Accept and share love. This is a time when we sometimes spend time with family members with whom we have differences. Set those aside during your holiday events. If others bring them up, ask them to wait and discuss the matter at a more appropriate time. Families, traditions, and rituals often change. Don’t insist on doing everything the way it was previously done. Be understanding of others. There is a good possibility they are feeling the stress of the holidays as well.

Reach out to others. A smile, a hug, or a kind word can make someone’s day. You may be surprised just how good you feel when you give someone else a lift. Invite someone to share in a family holiday meal.

Volunteer your time to feed the homeless or deliver gifts to seniors in assisted living.

Reaching out to others will lift your spirits

as well as theirs. Don’t sit around alone at the holidays; seek out community events and get involved.

Give yourself some love. Do something just for you. Get a pedicure, manicure, or a massage. Spend some time alone listening to music or reading a book. Take a walk.

Meditate. Participate in a yoga or a Tai Chi class.

Before you go to sleep each night, focus on all you have to be thankful for. Count your blessings. Each morning, give thanks for a new day and a new opportunity to have the peace you seek. With a little thought and planning, you can assure yourself of having your best holiday season ever. V Judi Moreo is a motivational speaker, life coach, and author of the best selling book, “You Are More Than Enough.” She can be contacted at judi@judimoreo.com.

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Christ mas In The Canyon

by Joseph Smith live Nativity, an open warm fire, the Old Salty Train ride, Santa Claus, camel rides, hot chocolate, holiday music, hundreds of thousands of sparkling Christmas lights, and more – all framed within the red walls of Padre Canyon – will rush in the holiday spirit like nothing you and your family have ever experienced.

Tuacahn’s Christmas in the Canyon invites and welcomes you and yours to come share in the holiday cheer.

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The Live Nativity, presented in the Tuacahn Amphitheatre, will be a highlight of your

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experience for sure. This year the Live Nativity production is better than ever and will help you feel the warmth of the holidays. The cast of up to 87 changes nightly as it is made up of community volunteers that come to retell the “First Christmas.”

The volunteers arrive early and are fitted with ancient period attire from the costume shop. They then receive rehearsal instruction from Ryan Norton, Tuacahn’s Associate Producer. After one walkthrough and a final rehearsal with

lights and music, the cast is ready to tell the miracle of Christmas. “The Nativity at Tuacahn is a great opportunity for family and friends to participate in a holiday event that only the magic of Tuacahn can facilitate,” says Norton. “It is a unique experience because the community gets to be a part of a Nativity production on a scale and grandeur like no other, with a backdrop actually similar to the environs of old Jerusalem.”

Before and after the live Nativity visitors can enjoy other activities. Visitors are

welcome to check out the new Arts Center located on the plaza.

The brand new Gift Gallery is now open inside the Arts Center.

The new Gift Gallery is spacious and allows patrons to mill around in warmth and comfort while getting ideas for unique Christmas gifts for their loved ones. Children will have a chance to tell Santa what they would like for Christmas. An open fire will be roaring to warm your hands while sipping on hot chocolate. Enjoy a horse drawn carriage ride on Friday and Saturday nights, while a ride in the Old Salty Train can accommodate both young and old.

to enjoy and to feel the happiness of the holidays. To learn more about Christmas in the Canyon at Tuacahn, visit our website at www.tuacahn.org or call (435) 652-3300. V

This year Tuacahn is supporting the Toys For Tots drive to help ensure every family has a wonderful Christmas. Please bring an unwrapped toy with you for donations.

Be sure and stop by the box office to learn more about the exciting new shows set for Tuacahn’s 2017 Broadway In The Canyon season. Shrek The Musical, Disney’s Newsies, and other exciting musicals to be announced, will grace the stage inside the 2,000 seat Tuacahn Amphitheatre May-October 2017. The best part is season packages are on sale starting at just $59.

Experience all three shows and feel the magic of theater that can only happen here in the deep canyon of Tuacahn.

There is no admission charge to visit Tuacahn and enjoy Christmas in the Canyon. It’s Tuacahn’s way of saying “thank you” to the community for its support and to remind us all of the true meaning of Christmas. However, there is a small fee of $2 per individual or $15 per family (up to 10 guests) for the live Nativity to cover production costs. Small fees also apply for train and carriage rides.

Come and enjoy Christmas in the Canyon at Tuacahn November 25 - December 23, 2016, running every Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. There is something for everyone

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Catch the Spirit,

Virgin Valley and Moapa Valley

by Linda Faas

October through November 30, 2016 – Moapa Valley and Virgin Valley Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Toys for Tots aims to help provide toys and gifts to deserving children so no child goes without for Christmas. Virgin Valley applications for toys are taken at the Salvation Army Family Resources Office, 355 W. Mesquite Blvd, #B-50. Moapa Valley applications can be made at the Overton Library and at the VFW Post Home at 324 Whitmore St, Overton. Toy donation boxes are located at Mesquite Fire and Rescue, Walgreens, Salvation Army office, and Sun City Mesquite. In Moapa Valley, collection boxes will be located at Lin’s Market and Ace Hardware. New, unwrapped toys will be collected through November 30. Send financial donations to Toys for Tots in care of Kathy Hollinger, PO Box 637, Logandale, NV 89021. Toys in Virgin Valley will be distributed December 21 at the Mesquite Historical Gym (Boxing Club) at 51 E First North, in conjunction with Salvation Army’s Angel Tree party. Moapa Valley gifts are distributed to children at 324 Whitmore St, Overton, through November 30.

After the deadline you can still get applications for both valleys on the website at moapa-nv.toysfortots.org. For more information call Kathy Hollinger at (702) 398-3901.

October through November 30, 2016 – Any Soldier Project Our local Veterans make sure that those currently serving in the U.S. military are remembered at Christmas. Mike Gizzi heads up the effort to send 100 boxes of toiletries, snacks, and other items for active service members. If you wish to help by contributing items or financial donations, drop them at the Mesquite Veterans Center, 840 Hafen Lane, Monday through Friday, 9 am to 3 pm, until November 30. Letters and cards are welcomed, and school children are encouraged to write letters of thanks or draw pictures. For details about this important support program, see www.anysoldier.com. The Veterans sort and box the gifts and mail them to our military serving in critical and remote areas of the world. Exchange Club contributes postage for the packages that are mailed December 7. Mesquite Veterans Center phone is (702) 346-2735.

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October through December 21, 2016 – Salvation Army Angel Tree Gift Drive for Children and Seniors Mesquite Family Services of the Salvation Army will begin accepting volunteer helpers to set up “Angel Trees” in late October. During November, several Christmas trees decorated with “wishlist” tag ornaments will be placed at Mesquite locations. The tags, with gift suggestions and age/clothing sizes can be selected by those who wish to be an “angel” and make the gift wish come true. Unwrapped gifts and clothing are then

Salvation Army's red and white Christmas tree.

brought to Salvation Army for distribution to children and families at the Angel Tree party, to be held at the Mesquite Boxing Club on December 21. The program for seniors is being held during the same period, with “angels” choosing tags from the Angel Trees and providing needed items for seniors in the community.

The Salvation Army also solicits donation of turkeys and food items during the holidays. Interested donors should call the Salvation Army at (702) 345-5116 for details. Their office is at 355 W. Mesquite Blvd, B-50, in Brickyard Plaza, Mesquite.

November 16-19, 2016 – Festival of Trees, Mesquite Mesquite Arts Council and Mesquite Gaming invite all to join in the 20th Annual Festival of Trees, themed, “Peace on Earth,”

Share the Spirit

Holiday Charit y Project s and Event s at the CasaBlanca Resort on Mesquite Blvd., November 16-19.

The display of trees, crafters boutique, musical performances, tree auction, and prize raffles are sure to warm holiday hearts.

Businesses, clubs, and individuals are invited to sponsor a decorated tree for the competition. Information and entry forms for those who wish to decorate and display a tree, and for crafters who sell holiday gifts, are available from Aleta Ruth, (702) 461-1403 and (702) 346-6455. Entry forms should be sent to her at PO Box 2039, Mesquite, NV 89024.

November 23, 2016 – Mesquite Community Thanksgiving Dinner The City of Mesquite hosts its annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner on Wednesday, November 23, starting at 12 noon. This annual dinner is held at the Mesquite Community and Senior Center, 102 Old Mill Road. The event is free and open to all Virgin Valley residents. It gives all members of the community, regardless of finances or age, an opportunity to enjoy a meal with others on the holiday. Last year the dinner served over 2,200 people, with 330 meals delivered to homebound seniors.

The festival opens Wednesday, November 16, 4-8 pm, with opening ceremonies at 6 pm. The festival continues November 17, 3-8 pm, November 18, 2-8 pm, and Saturday, November 19, 10 am-8 pm. Canned food donations are accepted at the door, and decorated trees are auctioned to benefit the Virgin Valley Food Bank and Salvation Army.

This holiday event is made possible by the generosity of individuals, businesses, groups, and the City of Mesquite. Anyone wishing to donate time, product, or money to this event should contact Griseyda Belalcazar (gbelalcazar@mesquitenv.gov) or Krissy Thornton (kthornton@mesquitenv.gov) at (702) 346-5290. Volunteers are needed for preparing the meal, assisting in the kitchen during the day of the event, serving, delivering homebound meals, cleaning up, and providing entertainment. Volunteers must pre-register with Krissy Thornton; no walk-ins will be allowed.

December 1, 2016 – Community Christmas Pasta Garden Eureka Town Square donates 25% of every purchased buffet meal to local charities. A community crafts sale will be featured during the 4 pm-7 pm buffet. Eureka Casino Resort, 275 Mesquite Blvd., Mesquite. Phone (702) 345-4600 for details.

Bell ringers are signs of Christmas in Mesquite

November 21-December 24, 2016 – Salvation Army Kettle Drive Salvation Army volunteers in Mesquite will again ring the bell to help our neighbors. Keeping up the 125-year tradition, Mesquite’s Salvation Army office plans its largest fundraising event of the year, raising funds that will be spent locally. Kettles will be located this year at WalMart, Smith’s Food and Drug, Walgreen’s, Lee’s Liquors, and Ace Hardware. Volunteers are needed to help ring the bell at all those locations six days a week, 10 am-6 pm. Mesquite volunteers are always known for their jolly Santa attire, musical offerings and happy smiles. Volunteers please call Captain Lisa Smith at (702) 345-5116 to schedule time and location to ring the bell.

December 2-3, 2016 – Moapa Valley Festival of Trees Tree decorating, caroling and other family-oriented activities are organized at the Old Logandale School. Businesses and groups are invited to decorate and display trees to auction, and the public is invited to share in the holiday fun. Doors are open December 2, 3-7 pm and December 3, 9-5 pm. Auction results are announced before Saturday close, with proceeds going to fund preservation of the old school and community museum. Call Robin Maughan at (702) 398-7272 for details on participation.

December 6, 2016 – Heart of the Holidays Musical Show, 7pm This community Christmas Show fundraiser features local talent along with country music artists. Held at the Eureka Casino Resort, proceeds support the Mesquite Reads program for elementary students and local charities.

December 8, 2016 – Parade of Lights and Mesquite Christmas Tree Lighting A new traditionl Mesquite’s 2nd Annual Parade of Lights celebrates the season by calling all businesses and groups to light up the town in this festive lead-up to the traditional tree

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November 19, 2016 – “Scouting for Food” Boy Scout Food Drive Local Boy Scouts will distribute food donation bags throughout Virgin Valley neighborhoods the week prior and pick up donated canned goods on Saturday, November 19. The Scouts will also have a collection bin at Mesquite Smith’s Food and Drug on November 19. Donations will be distributed through the Salvation Army in Mesquite and the Beaver Dam food bank. Donations can also be made directly to those organizations on behalf of the Scouts.

Santa at the Parade of Lights in Mesquite.

lighting at Mesquite City Hall. Those who wish to enter a parade unit should register with the Mesquite Dept. of Athletics and Leisure Services by November 30. Prizes are given to parade entries for the best light display and the most canned food donated for the Salvation Army Food Drive. The parade starts at 5:30 pm, and travels Mesquite Blvd. from Arrowhead Drive to Willow Drive. What a great opportunity for families to gather curbside with hot chocolate and cookies to enjoy the light parade.

Everyone is welcome to then attend the annual Mesquite City tree lighting ceremony. Students and adult carolers will provide entertainment. Santa and Mrs. Claus, who arrive on a city fire truck, will make a quick appearance before they head back to the North Pole to finish preparations for Christmas Eve. December 10 – Christmas Social At the Lost City Museum, 721 S. Moapa Valley Blvd. from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm is the Christmas Social, complete with drawings for some wonderful raffle items from local merchants, and refreshments.

December 17 – "A night out with Santa Claus" From 6 - 8 pm is the Moapa Valley Revitalization Project’s “A Night Out with Santa Claus,” located at 269 S. Moapa Valley Blvd. at the corner of Perkins and MV Blvd.​in Overton. Bring your kids or grandkids out to meet Santa Claus so that they can tell him what they want for Christmas.

Food Banks and Food Drives November 1-30, 2016 – Virgin Valley and Moapa Valley Schools/ Overton Power District #5 Food Drive The Moapa Valley and Virgin Valley Schools partner with Overton Power District #5 in their 7th Annual Food Drive. Donated food goes to the Virgin Valley Food Bank and the Cappalappa Family Resource Center to assist families during the holiday season.

Non-perishable foods can be donated at the local schools during November, or dropped at the nearest Overton Power District 5 office, located at 615 N Moapa Blvd. in Overton and 731 Turtleback Rd. in Mesquite. For more information, phone Overton Power District 5 offices at (702) 346-5710 or (702) 427-6278.

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November 22, 2016 – Virgin Valley Food Bank ”Turkey Tuesday” Registered clients of the Virgin Valley Food Bank will be provided with the makings for a complete Thanksgiving dinner on Turkey Tuesday, the Tuesday before Thanksgiving, from 3 pm-5 pm.

Families of two or more receive this holiday meal through the generous donations from the community. Leslee Montgomery, Director of Virgin Valley Food Bank, encourages donation of turkeys and financial contributions during the two weeks prior, Monday through Friday, 9 am to 4 pm, and Saturday, 9 am-noon at the VV food bank and thrift store located behind Mesquite Plaza at 341 Mesquite Blvd., facing First South Street.

The Virgin Valley Food Bank maintains its normal schedule of operations for the Emergency Food Program throughout the holidays. For more information on how to qualify for the assistance program or to donate, please call (702) 346-0900.

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DIY Christmas Crafts and Gifts

by Jennifer Hammond-Moore love Christmas! I love this time that allows for quality family time that means so much. I know I was blessed to be raised by parents who nurtured our creativity and fueled our love for arts and crafts. Now that I am older I get to share the fun with my own children and grandchildren. My favorite Christmas memories were the ones when we didn’t have much money so we turned to our creativity to make gifts for neighbors and loved ones. One such Christmas we made bath soap, handmade paper notebooks, wood carvings, and crocheted puppets. I still wonder how in the world we got everything done while still taking care of children, the farm, the house, and jobs. But the memories are forever ingrained in my mind.

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This holiday season, take time out of your busy schedule to make your own memories. No matter where your creativity falls on the scale, these crafts and gifts are sure to please.

Santa's Cookie Plate and Cup This idea is incredibly easy and a great activity to do with children and grandkids. This is also a fun way to celebrate Christmas Eve with personalized mugs of hot cocoa.

Items needed: Cup and Plate Sharpie or permanent marker Oven

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Instructions: Preheat oven to 350F. Using a permanent marker (Sharpie) decorate your mug and plate.

Place the plate and mug in the oven for 30 minutes to bake.

Done! The ink will be sealed into the mug.

Instruct the person receiving this gift to wash the plate and mug by hand. Dishwashers will wash off some of the ink, if not all of it.

Gingerbread Sugar Scrub Ingredients: 1 cup sugar 1 cup brown sugar ¾ cup coconut oil ½ tsp vanilla extract ½ tsp cinnamon ½ tsp allspice ½ tsp ginger ½ tsp nutmeg

Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a stand mixer and mix well. If ingredients are not fully mixed in, turn off mixer and mix well with clean hands.

Scoop into the jar and attach lids tightly.

Either use a gift tag or print a label for the Gingerbread Sugar Scrub. Add a ribbon to the top of the jar and ta-da! You are done.

Additional Materials: Mason jars with lids or other small jars with lids Ribbon for decoration Gift tags

To use the scrub: Gently apply a scoopful and scrub onto wet skin in a circular motion, concentrating on dry areas and rough patches. Rinse skin clean with warm water.

Kitchen Helping Hand This truly is the easiest of the ideas. Purchase an oven mitt and fill it with various kitchen gadgets.

Tie with a ribbon and ta-da! You are done.

If you want to go a step further, use fabric paint and place a child's handprint on the mitt and let dry. It adds a special touch and enlists the help from the kids.

Supplies can be easily purchased from a dollar store or you can buy higher quality items from Pampered Chef of other companies that have guarantees on their products. I personally am a gadget snob and the extra money is well worth it.

Remember to take time to slow down this holiday season and make a few new memories. Gifts are good, but time is the greatest gift of all.

Candy Cane Hearts Ingredients: 4” or 6” lollipop sticks Mini candy canes Chocolate: white, semisweet, or melting chocolate Crushed candy canes, sugar sprinkles or Christmas sprinkles Disposable decorating bag Instructions: Take the lollipops out of the wrappers and set on either parchment paper or a Silpat mat.

Place a stick in between two candy canes, making a heart shape.

Preheat the oven to 300F and place the hearts in the oven for 3-5 minutes.

Once removed from the oven, press the ends together and pull out the sides to make a more full heart; being careful not to burn your fingers. Place back in oven if not melted enough.

Place the chocolate in a small bowl in the microwave and melt in 15 second increments, stirring after each 15 seconds. Chocolate should be smooth.

Place melted chocolate in a pastry bag (I prefer disposable ones for easy clean-up).

Fill in the centers of the hearts with the chocolate.

Sprinkle the crushed candy canes or sprinkles over the chocolate.

Allow to set for at least 10 minutes.

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When Words Aren’t Enough

The Zion National Park Plein Air Art Invitational, November 7-13, 2016

by Lyman Hafen photos courtesy of ZNHA or hundreds of years people have been trying to communicate what Zion Canyon means to them with symbols on rock, words on paper, and images on canvas. The early explorers and scientists did a remarkable job of recording in prose the geology, flora, fauna, and human history of the area. But even they never set out into canyon country without illustrators, photographers, and fine artists in tow – to back up their words with amazing images.

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As executive director of the Zion National Park Foundation, I am an eyewitness, almost daily, to someone’s first encounter with Zion Canyon. I watch and listen as they stop in their tracks, look up, take a deep breath, and sigh something indecipherable as they exhale. It seems that for most people confronted by Zion’s towers of stone for the first time, words

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fail them. They stand transfixed and utter something like “wow,” or “awesome,” or “unbelievable,” (often in a foreign language), and know that they have not come close to expressing what they feel.

At a loss for the right words, they default to the camera, as if the only way to define what they are experiencing is to digitize it for later reference. As the old saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words.

For those who possess the skill, it seems the creation of original works of art is the best way to communicate the beauty and majesty of Zion.

Frederick Dellenbaugh, who explored the area with John Wesley Powell in the early 1870s, and returned to spend some serious time in Zion Canyon in the summer of 1903, was one of the few Zion chroniclers who could not only write, but was also an

accomplished painter. His work played an important role in opening the eyes of the country to the importance of setting Zion Canyon aside as a national park. One might debate whether it was his words, published in the January, 1904 edition of Scribners Magazine, or his series of paintings that hung in the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis, that had the greatest impact.

No doubt it was a combination of both, but it’s certain that without the stunning color renderings created by Dellenbaugh and others, it would have been a long time before the people of the United States, as well as members of Congress, had their eyes opened to the true grandeur of Zion.

Today, we continue to celebrate the importance of original art in the history of Zion with the annual Zion National Park Plein Air Art Invitational. The Zion National

Park Foundation will host the eighth annual event, November 7-13, 2016, by hosting 24 of the country’s finest landscape artists for a week of painting and teaching in the park. This year’s event is dubbed “The Centennial Edition,” in honor of the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service, established on August 25, 2016. The artists will paint plein air (on location) throughout the week in many of the same locations that iconic artists such as Frederick Dellenbaugh and Thomas Moran painted when this landscape was first exposed to the American public. Park visitors during the week will have many unique opportunities to witness great artists at work in the canyon, as well as attend daily painting demonstrations and lectures.

An exhibit of samples of the artists’ studio work will hang in the Zion Human History Museum from September 14 – November 27. This year, in commemoration of the National Park Service Centennial, each invited artist will also include at least one painting featuring a national park other than Zion.

On the evening of Friday, November 11, the Zion Human History Museum Auditorium will be transformed into an art gallery as more than 150 paintings produced during the week are hung for a gala reception and sale to invited guests. The wet paint sale opens to the public on Saturday morning and runs through November 28, in the museum.

From 11:00 am until 2:00 pm on Saturday, November 12, a lively “Paint Out” event will be held on the lawn in front of the Zion Lodge, beneath Zion Canyon’s towers of stone. During the Paint Out visitors can purchase the amazing paintings produced by the invitational artists as they are being painted. A silent auction in the Lodge Auditorium of the demonstration pieces produced during the week by the invited artists will take place concurrent with the Paint Out. Event proceeds go to the Zion National Park Foundation to support important projects in the park, including the successful Zion Youth Education Initiative, making it possible for children throughout the area to visit the park and have a potentially lifechanging educational experience.

Art has a very firm place in the history of Zion Canyon and in the story that led to it becoming a National Park. Today, artists, donors, sponsors, and visitors continue that rich tradition, preserving the wonder that is Zion National Park for future generations, and enhancing the experience of everyone who comes here. V For more information, visit zionpark.org.

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Mesquite Senior Center Happenings

102 W Old Mill Rd • (702) 346-5290 • Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Mesquite Cancer HELP Society Introduces Telemental Health Tues–Thurs, 10 AM – 3 PM The Mesquite Cancer HELP Society has paired with Judith Willey, MFT to provide telemental health services. MCHS realizes that counseling for its clients is crucial to their continued progress and fight against cancer.

Additionally, these services will be available to their caregivers. Support group meetings typically take place every month, however, some clients require one on one counseling.

For additional information/questions please contact: Yoli at (702) 553-6523 or call their office: (702) 346-0622

Community Thanksgiving Dinner

The City of Mesquite Athletics and Leisure Services Department- Senior Center Division will host its annual “Community Thanksgiving Dinner” on Wednesday, November 23 from 12 PM – 6 PM at the Mesquite Community and Senior Center located at 102 W. Old Mill Road.

For additional information, please email Griseyda Belalcazar at gbelalcazar@mesquitenv.gov or Krissy Thornton at kthornton@mesquitenv.gov, or see page 95.

Santa Claus Season’s Greetings Breakfast & Bake Sale

Have a delicious breakfast of pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, fresh fruit, orange juice, and coffee. Saturday, December 10, 8 AM – 10:30 AM Fee: $5 Adults (8+); $3 Children (3-7); Senior Adult $3 (now to Friday, Dec. 4/$4 after Dec. 5-12); Family Rate: $15 (family of 4) additional child is $3.

AARP Driver’s Safety Course

Second Wednesday of the month at the Mesquite Senior Center from 10 AM – 2 PM. Contact: (702) 346-8732.

Alzheimer’s Support Group Meeting

Second Tuesday of the month at the Mesquite Senior Center from 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM. Contact: (702) 346-7666.

Quilt Group “Sew Next Time”

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Meets: 1st, 2nd and 3rd Wednesdays of every month. 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM

Tennis TNT – Tips N Tricks –

by Donna Eads

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anta is on his way and all the tennis players have new racquets and equipment dancing in their heads. So what are some of the new tennis toys to consider? For the electronic minded player look at the new TurningSense developed with input from Nick Bolletieri at a cost of $279. This device not only gathers data on your hitting but fitness levels as well. There are two other products that offer some of the same features at a lower cost of $100-130 including offerings by BabolatPop and Pulse Play.

The only smart racquet remains with Babolat’s Play Pure Drive but Zepp Tennis has made a kit for your current racquet that is about half the cost.

Need something to carry these toys in? Try the best rated bags like Adidas Barricade III, Head Tour Team or Wilson Team. Maybe you just want one of the top racquets. Head Liquid Metal 8 is still on top followed

by Wilson’s Pro Staff RF 97.

Of course, Ms. Santa cannot be forgotten. The perfect gift for a female tennis enthusiast is probably jewelry available from LoveTennisByHazel.com. A new outfit is always a welcomed gift too.

Back to playing tennis. Since most of us play doubles let’s look at four shots that can help your team turn the tables in a match. Number one is use a slice shot for your approach to keep the ball at your opponent’s feet. Next, hit the ball on the rise by using a half volley often. Finally, the lob is so important in all doubles play. Work to develop both the defensive high crosscourt lob as well as the lob volley when close to the net.

Have a happy and healthy holiday season and see you on the courts! V

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Your Home Away from Home

by Vegas Food Nerd

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edgies Sports Bar has recently opened locally and is committed to becoming a beloved part of this small community. Randy Aleman convinced family members and friends to purchase the building in 2013. The group of partners, which also includes General Manager Chris Hennig, have had great success in running restaurants, and with the wisdom they’ve gained over the years, they knew they had to wait for just the right timing to open this new dining spot.

They had a vision for creating a restaurant that residents in Mesquite could enjoy without walking through a smoky casino floor – a great place to grab a beer, watch the game, share a meal with friends, and just a great place to hang out.

Recently announced, this December, Wedgies will become one of the first places in Mesquite to offer non-smoking gaming in the city. Randy, Chris, and their partners are excited to share the newly opened outpost in Mesquite with the town and its residents. Their goal is to create a space where all types and demographics feel comfortable when they walk through the door. They understand that areas like ours are small yet loyal and look forward to the business contributing to local causes and interests.

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The restaurant’s atmosphere is open, modern, and comfortable. It is divided into two sections – the general dining area and the bar – resulting in a family-friendly destination, as well as a great place to hang out with friends while cheering for your favorite team without disturbing the families that might be dining there at the same time. The gaming is of course in the bar side of things, which makes for a great place to go when you just want some cold beer and to play some games, and hopefully leave the joint with a little extra cash in your wallet. Good times and a great staff make for a winning combination in this sports bar and restaurant.

The menu includes a mix of American comfort food classics such as hamburgers, sandwiches, salads, and more. You can also order a big old plate of nachos while you watch the latest sporting event. In addition, they feature some really good Italian-American options with their house made pasta fagioli, homemade pizzas, calzones, and a selection of pastas with their fresh, made-from-scratch sauces.

Their pasta and meatballs will take you right back to your Nonna’s kitchen (if you were lucky enough to have one, that is).

Wedgies also offers some great specials available all day long, such as their $4.50 draft beers—all day, every day. Their Happy Hour truly lives up to its name with $2 domestic drafts, $3 imports, and $2 well drinks. It typically runs from 2 pm to 6 pm,

but this casual and comfortable eatery extends their specials to every major sporting event that may be drawing in the fans at the time.

Wings and cold beers while you cheer is an American tradition that they take very seriously at Wedgies, with flavors including BBQ, teriyaki, mild, medium, habanero, or plain, all served with the classic accompaniments of celery, ranch dressing, and their salty, crispy, tummy-pleasing french fries. Crispy calamari, and fried zucchini are some of the other tasty bites they offer, and while we are at it, who doesn’t love a good and gooey cheese stick now and again? One of their more original offerings is their steamed bucket of clams, which you can enjoy two ways – with a choice of a red or white broth with garlic and wine.

When I got the chance to visit this new Mesquite hotspot, I tried a couple of their messy, but good, hot sandwiches, like their cheesy, sweet and sour Reuben, and their wet, but deliciously dripping good, Italian beef. I kicked it all off with my friend by trying their take on the Italian classic pasta fagioli. It was a garlicky soup creation that satisfied. I highly recommend that on your next visit. Pairing that course with a nice cold beer on draft, we moved onto the hot sandwiches. The Reuben was piled with just the right mix of sauerkraut, corned beef, swiss cheese, and thousand island dressing that I was hoping for when

it arrived at the table. And that Italian beef sandwich had just the right amount of juice that a true Chicago Italian would recognize. My grandpa taught me well.

And this was the real deal Italian beef – complete with the right mix of giardiniera, melted provolone, and au jus to dip the messy creation in. This isn’t about being pretty, it’s about getting down and dirty with a really good sub. Yum. This is a fun, family-friendly, girlfriend lunch spot, sports viewing gathering spot with friends, and a great place to just grab a beer while playing a few games on their machines. It is a spot that Mesquite really needed – to fill a void in our restaurant scene – a casual, fun spot for all in our community, and I highly suggest you give it a try. I know that my family and I are loving this place. V Located at 796 W. Pioneer Blvd., Mesquite, NV and is open daily from 7 am - 10 pm.

(702) 346-0999 WedgiesSportsBar.com

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view on DEFENSE

'Tis Always

TheforSeason Safety

by Peggy Pope

W

ith the holiday season quickly approaching, our thoughts are with family, friends and good times. However, at this time of year, it is also important to be extra vigilant when it comes to safety issues. Many years ago, law enforcement officials coined the phrase, "situational awareness." Situational awareness refers to always thinking about your personal safety, which includes knowing what is happening in your immediate surroundings when walking, driving, parking in a shopping area, or anywhere you may be.

Instead of running errands, shopping, or even putting gas in the car during darkness or late evening hours, folks, especially women, should consider minimizing their potential vulnerability by accomplishing those and similar tasks during daylight hours. Look around you, know who is near you, do not be distracted.

While the holidays can be a wonderful time of year for most decent folks, crooks, thugs, and persons of questionable character relish the holiday season as well. They will be out in full force, looking for crimes of opportunity – packages left in plain

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sight in a parked car, a lone woman walking to her car at night carrying packages and an inviting-looking purse, or any other situation you can think of that would make it easy for a criminal to ply his or her trade.

In order to avoid a confrontation, or to survive a confrontation or an actual assault, women should not only practice situational awareness at all times, they must also train their minds on how to react in a potentially violent situation. Practicing vigilance, and having a survival instinct mindset, a woman can successfully survive a violent confrontation. Moreover, if a woman carries herself with self-confidence and poise with her head held high, this can actually be a deterrent to a potential attacker and make him think twice about his plan to attack.

Naturally, along with the survival mindset, she should also learn and practice even the most basic of potentially life-saving street survival skills. For folks with concealed weapons permits, they must clearly understand the 'rules of engagement' and they too should exercise extreme vigilance in their daily activities.

Sadly, the arrival of the holiday season brings with it the inevitable increase in property crimes. There is usually a noted increase in thefts, vandalism, and burglaries. There are literally millions of burglaries perpetrated in our country every year. If you ask anyone who has been the victim of a residential burglary, they will tell you that it was an unnerving violation of the sanctity of their home.

Aside from their property loss, this is a significant emotional event they will not soon forget.

It is incumbent upon all of us to secure our homes using the best methods available within our budgets, not only to protect our property, but to potentially protect our loved ones as well.

Aside from the physical aspects of home security, there is a definite mental component here as well. Home security must be an everyday thing, and not an issue to be concerned with on an occasional or semi-regular basis. For example, one can have the best window and door locks, but if they are not routinely used, the house is needlessly exposed, thereby making it a much more vulnerable target.

Burglary prevention should be embraced by homeowners and renters alike. Consider two locks for each window and door. Don’t forget your sliding glass doors – they are burglar favorites and a cut down broomstick can be easily foiled by a mediocre criminal.

While away from home, use lights and televisions on timers to illuminate the interior. Well-placed exterior lights can not only be useful in enhancing the beauty of a home, they can also act as a deterrent.

Homeowners might think about burglar alarms with proper exterior and window signage, joining a neighborhood watch program, and simply reaching out to neighbors who share the concern for burglary prevention. We should all practice burglary prevention, from securing and protecting our own homes, to maintaining a heightened sense of awareness in our neighborhoods.

May you all have a safe, secure, and joyful holiday season. V Assistance writing this article was provided by the team at the Women’s Defensive Weaponry Club & WDW Training Center (non-profit organization), where women are trained to defend themselves both armed and unarmed. For more information: WomensDefensiveWeaponry.org and WDWTrainingCenter.org.

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Remembering 9/11

Mesquite Night Out

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Parowan’s Christmas In The Country 2016 “The Magic of Christ mas”

by Alice Heidenreich photos by Dave Mineer, Sr. hristmas now surrounds us, happiness is everywhere, our hands are busy with many tasks, as excitement fills the air. Each year, Thanksgiving weekend brings this excitement and handmade creativity

C

to Parowan as we ignite the Christmas holiday season with a Santa Parade, Candlelight Walking Parade, Town Lighting Ceremony, musical programs, and our famous two day Holiday Bazaar. Most of these events are held on Parowan’s Main

Street, with the exception of the Holiday Bazaar which is held at the Iron County Fairgrounds at 50 S 600 E in Parowan, Utah.

This Holiday Bazaar is distinctive in the fact that all items from vendors must be handmade. Artisans and vendors come from all over Southern Utah and Nevada to display their own craftsmanship in individual gifts. You’ll be able to find all sorts of wood and tole painted decorations, knitted and crocheted beanies, gloves, and scarves, ceramics, cakes, cookies, candle holders, clocks, jewelry, paintings, quilts, stuffed toys, wreaths, homemade candies, and so much more.

Shopping at this local Holiday Bazaar supports our local artisans, our local economy, and community. You will find high-quality items that are built to last.

Artisans have a lot of pride in their work and want it to last. These cool, trendy, and usually one-of-a-kind items will make everyone ask, “Where can I get one?”

Since each and every item is made by

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hand, and you are usually talking directly to the person who created it, this personal connection with the artisan brings an extra something special to your gift and makes it so much more personal with memories that will last a lifetime.

True to its rich traditions and heritage, Parowan City offers not only the Holiday Bazaar on the Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving, but also brings the community together Friday evening for an interfaith Christmas program at the Aladdin Theatre on Main Street. Christmas is not as much about opening our presents as opening our hearts, and this time of year brings a season of joy as we celebrate by giving the light of love to those who need it most. It truly is a magical time and everyone far and wide is invited to join in the celebration and small town love of this weekend.

Saturday morning brings the Santa Parade on Parowan Main Street at 10:00, with the Holiday Bazaar continuing all day as well. Following the parade, Santa Claus will make an appearance at the Holiday Bazaar so children can get their wish

lists in early. The Candlelight Walking Parade is also an exclusive event which engages the entire community as all lights are turned off and townspeople carry their candles up Main Street, from 500 N to Town Square on the corner of Center and Main, singing Christmas carols and enjoying the Christmas spirit of giving and forgiving. There is a short program which includes more singing, hand rubbing, cold noses, hot chocolate, and ultimately the lighting of Main Street and Town Square for the Christmas season. This year’s grand finale will be a Christmas concert with Eric Dodge at 7:00 pm in the Aladdin Theatre, 57 N Main in Parowan. All events are free during this time, while donations are always welcome.

“Until one feels the spirit of Christmas, there is no Christmas. All else is outward display - so much tinsel and decorations.

For it isn’t the holly, it isn’t the snow. It isn’t the tree, not the firelight’s glow. It’s the

warmth that comes to the hearts of men when the Christmas spirit returns again.” ~ Unknown.

Parowan City warmly invites you to join us during this magical time of year. The love, creativity, and sense of community will not disappoint and will leave you wanting more. V For more information and event details, please see parowan.org.

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BUSINESS CARD DIRECTORY

The Perfect Holiday Gift

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BUSINESS CARD DIRECTORY

Mohave County Approved Trail Rides and Riding Lessons

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BUSINESS CARD DIRECTORY

Happy Holidays 116

AREA GOLF GUIDE

Bloomington - St. George bloomingtoncountryclub.com (435) 673-4687

Dixie Red Hills - St. George stgeorgecitygolf.com/dixieredhills (435) 627-4444

Southgate - St. George stgeorgecitygolf.com/southgate (435) 627-4440

Canyons (Oasis GC) - Mesquite www.theoasisgolfclub.com (702) 346-7820

Entrada - St. George www.golfentrada.com (435) 986-2200

St. George - St. George stgeorgecitygolf.com/stgeorge (435) 627-4404

CasaBlanca - Mesquite casablancaresort.com/golf-home (702) 346-6764

Falcon Ridge - Mesquite golffalcon.com (702) 346-6363

Sun River - St. George sunrivergolf.com (435) 986-0001

Cedar Ridge - Cedar City www.cedarcity.org/65/Cedar-Ridge-GolfCourse (435) 586-2970

Green Spring - Washington new.washingtoncity.org/golf (435) 673-7888

Sunbrook - St. George stgeorgecitygolf.com/sunbrook (435) 627-4400

Historic Beaver Dam - Beaver Dam www.historicbeaverdamlodge.com (928) 347-2222

The Ledges - St. George www.ledges.com (435) 634-4640

Palmer (Oasis GC) - Mesquite www.theoasisgolfclub.com (702) 346-7820

Thunderbird - Mt. Carmel www.zionnational-park.com/golf (435) 648-2188

Palms - Mesquite casablancaresort.com/golf-home (702) 346-4067

Wolf Creek - Mesquite www.golfwolfcreek.com (702) 346-1670

Conestoga - Mesquite www.conestogagolf.com/ (702) 346-4292 Coral Canyon - Washington www.coralcanyongolf.com (435) 688-1700 Coyote Springs - Coyote Springs (Moapa) coyotesprings.com (702) 422-1400 Coyote Willows - Mesquite www.coyotewillowsgolf.com (702) 345-3222

Sky Mountain - Hurricane www.skymountaingolf.com (435) 635-7888

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CALENDAR of Event s NOVEMBER

Desert Quilt Shop Hop Nov 3 - 5 16th annual event that happens every fall and runs between Las Vegas, NV and St. George, UT. Visit seven quilt shops to win fabulous prizes. desertquiltshophop.com | (702) 346-2180

Eureka Uncorked Nov 4 Wine seminar 3 PM in the Grand Canyon Room, Wine Grand Tasting 5 PM at Seasons Ultra Lounge. Eureka Casino Resort, 275 Mesa Blvd., Mesquite.

See page 49 | EurekaMesquite.com

Mesquite on Broadway Nov 11-12 7 PM Your favorite songs from your favorite plays, produced by the Virgin Valley Theater Group. Mesquite Community Theater, 150 N Yucca St., Mesquite.

See article on page 34 | (702) 397-2273

Pomegranate Arts & Crafts Festival Nov 4 - 5 9 AM - 4 PM The 21st annual Pomegranate Festival with fine arts and crafts booths, raffles, kids activities, and more. Clark County Fairgrounds, 1301 W. Whipple St., Logandale, NV moapavalleyartguild.net

Moapa Valley OHV Roundup Nov 11 - 12 Semi annual event for off-road enthusiasts including food, vendors, entertainment and racing. Clark County Fairgrounds,1301 W. Whipple St., Logandale, NV See article on page 62 | playinourdirt.com

Veterans Day Parade Nov 5 19th annual Mesquite Veterans Day Parade, West Mesquite Blvd.

See article on page 87 | (702) 345-3347

10th Annual Red Rock Film Festival Nov 11 - 19 An international gathering for cinematic art in Festival City, USA (Cedar City, UT). www.redrockfilmfestival.com

Eureka On Tap Nov 5 Beer seminars 1:30 and 3 PM in the Grand Canyon Room, Beer Grand Tasting 5 PM at Seasons Ultra Lounge. Eureka Casino Resort, 275 Mesa Blvd., Mesquite.

See page 49 | EurekaMesquite.com

Festival of Trees Nov 14 - 19 5 - 8 PM 20th Annual event in Mesquite, themed, “Peace on Earth,” at the CasaBlanca Resort on Mesquite Blvd.

See article on page 94 | (702) 461-1403

Mesquite Reads Book Sale Nov 5 8 AM - 2 PM Annual book sale that benefits reading program for local students. Mesquite Library, 121 W. 1st North St., Mesquite.

See article on page 61 | (702) 346-2902 Veterans Day Concert Nov 6 7 - 8:30 PM Master Singers Concert, Heritage Center Theater, 105 N 100 E, Cedar City, free admission. visitcedarcity.com 1000 Flags Over Mesquite Nov 6 - 13 A week-long tribute to America’s military and veterans.

See article on page 32.

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Zion National Park Plein Air Art Invitational.

Nov 7 - 13 7 PM At its 8th annual event, The Zion National Park Foundation will host 24 of the country’s finest landscape artists for a week of painting and teaching in the park.

See article on page 100 | zionpark.org

Jubilee of Trees Nov 17-21 A southern Utah holiday tradition at Dixie Center, 1835 S. Convention Center Dr. in St. George.

See article on page 70. dixieregional.org/jubileeoftrees | (435) 251-2480 Holiday Boutique Nov 21 - Dec 31 The Mesquite Fine Arts Gallery’s annual boutique with unique handmade items. 15 W. Mesquite Blvd, Mesquite.

See article on page 66 | (702) 346-2902 Community Thanksgiving Dinner Nov 23 12 noon The City of Mesquite’s annual dinner at the Mesquite Community and Senior Center, 102 Old Mill Road. The event is free and open to all Virgin Valley residents. (702) 346-5290

Community Thanksgiving Dinner Nov 24 11 AM - 4 PM The Red Rock Canyon School is hosting its annual community dinner on Thanksgiving Day. 747 E. St. George Blvd., St. George. (435) 673-6111

Breakfast with Santa Dec 3 9 - 11 AM A fundraiser for the KidSpace after-school literacy program and STEM curriculum at Sandstone Elementary School at Gardner Center at DSU, 225 S. University Ave., St. George.

(435) 879-4251

Parowan’s Christmas in the Country Nov 25 - 26 Santa Parade, Candlelight Walking Parade, Town Lighting Ceremony, musical programs, and two day Holiday Bazaar.

See article on page 106 | www.parowan.org

Christmas at the Homestead Dec 6-10 5:30 - 8:30 PM Local entertainment, crafts, food, and nightly appearances from St. Nicholas. Frontier Homestead State Park Museum, 635 N. Main St. Cedar City, $5 per family. (435) 586-9290

Thanksgiving Pow-Wow Nov 25 - 26 Paiute Tribal Gathering Fri. 6 PM, Sat. 10 AM in the Paiute Gym, 600 N 100 E, Cedar City. Free admission. Hosted by the Cedar Band. (435) 586-9433 Festival of Trees Nov 25 - 26 9 AM - 5 PM Frontier Homestead State Park Museum, 635 N Main St, Cedar City, admission is $3. (435) 586-9290 Tuacahn’s Christmas in the Canyon Nov 25 - Dec 23 Festival of Lights and festivities in the Tuacahn Plaza free to the public. A Live Nativity presented each night at 7 & 8 PM. See article on page 92 | www.tuacahn.org | (435) 652-3300.

Dickens’ Christmas Festival Nov 30 - Dec 3 This fair re-creates the crooked streets and winding lanes of Charles Dickens’ London, where so many of America’s holiday traditions originated. Dixie Convention Center, St. George, UT. See article on page 44. www.dickenschristmasfestival.com

DECEMBER Moapa Valley Festival of Trees Dec 2 - 3 Tree decorating, caroling and other family-oriented activities are organized at the Old Logandale School.

3011 North Moapa Valley Boulevard, Logandale, NV. (702) 398-7272 Homestead Christmas Market Dec 2 - 4 11 AM - 6 PM Recapturing the sights, sounds, smells and ambiance of a pioneer Christmas market. Frontier Homestead State Park Museum, 635 N Main St, Cedar City. Admission $1.

(435) 586-9290 | www.frontierhomestead.org Holiday Gala Dec 3 The Mesquite Chamber of Commerce hosting 2016 Holiday Gala. Rising Star Sports Ranch Resort Ballroom.

See article on page 72. www.mesquitenvchamber.com | (702) 346-2902

Heart of the Holidays Musical Show Dec 6 7 PM Community Christmas Show fundraiser featuring local talent along with country music artists. Eureka Casino Resort, 275 Mesa Blvd., Mesquite. (702) 346-4600 Golf Fore Kids Charity Golf Tournament Dec 8 12th annual charity golf tournament at four golf courses in Mesquite. See article on page 18 | www.golfforekidsnv.org Parade of Lights and Christmas Tree Lighting Dec 8 A Mesquite tradition, the parade begins at 5:30 pm, and travels Mesquite Blvd. from Arrowhead Drive to Willow Drive, followed by the tree lighting at City Hall.

(702) 346-8732 Mesquite-Toes Christmas Benefit Show Dec 8 1 PM, Dec 9 1 PM and 7 PM Mesquite Community Theater, 150 N Yucca St. See article on page 39 | (702) 345-4499 73rd presentation Handel’s Messiah Dec 8 - 9 7:30 PM The Orchestra of Southern Utah and OSU Chorale invite you to listen, stir the heart and enliven the mind, with memories of Christmases gone before. Admission is free. Heritage Center Theater, 105 N. 100 East, Cedar City. (435) 586-2286 Community Soup Kitchen Christmas Dinner Dec 25 A free midday Christmas dinner at the Elks Lodge, 630 West 1250 North in St. George. Everyone is welcome to come and enjoy the festivities. stgsoupkitchen@gmail.com

SAVE THE DATE Jan 13-15 Mesquite Motor Mania www.mesquitecarshows.com Jan 14 Kids for Sports Foundation Charity Golf Tournament See article on page 109. www.kidsforsportsfoundation.org Jan 20-22 Mesquite Hot Air Balloon Festival www.casablancaresort.com

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ADVERTISING DIRECTORY Ace Hardware. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 All Secure Storage LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Aloree Smith – IBC Mary Kay. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Anytime Fitness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 Arizona Horse Ride. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Baird Painting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Bank of Nevada. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 Bella Horizon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 C & K Shutters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Checks-N-Mail. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Conestoga Golf Club. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 Cucina Italiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 Curb. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Danielle's Chocolates and Popcorn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Dave Amodt Photography. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Defense Preparedness Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Del Webb – SunCity Mesquite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Desert Oasis Spa & Salon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Desert Pain Specialists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Eagles Landing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 ERA – Karen Fielding. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 ERA – Sharon Szarzi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Enterprise Carpet Care. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Eureka Casino Resort. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Front Cover Eureka Casino – Uncorked . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 Farmers Insurance – Bill Mitchell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 First Song . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Five Star Vein Institute. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 Foremost Realty. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Friends of Gold Butte. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 George's Restaurant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Great Clips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Grille Room . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 Guillen – Heating, Cooling & Refrigeration. . . . . . . . . . . . 110 Guns & Guitars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Hangey's Custom Upholstering. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Helping Hands Caregivers, LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Heritage Electric. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Hole-In-One Pet Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 Hues & Vues/Staging Spaces. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Iceberg Air Conditioning & Heating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Jennifer Hammond-Moore – Health Coach. . . . . . . . . . . . 115 JL Kendrick Company Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Kane County Office of Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Katering Koncepts, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Keller Williams – Beverly Powers Uhlir. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Keller Williams – Deb Parsley, Beverly Rineck, Linda Jones . . 45 Keller Williams – Michele Burkett, Cindy Biskup. . . . . . . . . 83 Keller Williams – Michelle Hampsten, Tiffany Jacobs . . . . . . 97 Ken Garff Mesquite Ford. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 Ken Garff Mesquite Ford – Dave Heath . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Kitchen Encounters/Classy Closets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Kokopelli Landscaping. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 La de’ Paws Grooming Salon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Legend Solar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Logandale Trails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Lost City Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

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Mesa View Regional Hospital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Mesquite Fine Arts Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Mesquite Fine Arts Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Mesquite Home Theater. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Mesquite Pet Sitting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Mesquite Regional Business, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107 Mesquite Tile & Flooring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Mesquite Veterinary Clinic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Mesquite Women’s Clinic – Dr. Edward Ofori. . . . . . . . . . . 112 Moapa Valley Arts Council. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Moapa Valley OHV Roundup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Mortgage Mate LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 MVP Productions - Kris Zurbas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 NRC – The Reserve – Shawn Glieden. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Napa Auto & Truck Parts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Oasis Chiropractic Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Odyssey Landscaping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Painted Pony Restaurant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Peggy Sue's . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86 Pioneer Storage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Premier Properties – Maggie Ireland. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Pressing Ideas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Preston’s Shredding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 Quality 1 Realty Angela Brooks-Reese . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Quality 1 Realty Bret Lower. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Quality 1 Realty Patty Brooks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Quality 1 Realty Terree Knutson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Rager & Sons Refrigeration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 Ready Golf & Gear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Red Rock Golf Center - Rob Krieger. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Reliance Connects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Remax - Cindy Risinger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Remax – Patricia Bekeris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 Rising Star Sports Ranch Resort . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back Cover Rooster Cottage Consignment Gallery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 Sears Hometown Store. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Shelter Insurance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Silver Rider . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 Silverado Mechanical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107 Simply Quilts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Star Nursery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 State Farm – Lisa Wilde . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 Sugar's Home Plate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 SunRiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 The Lindi Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 The Perfume Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Travel Connection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Transparent Solutions Window Cleaning. . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Tuacahn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Valley Presbyterian Church. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Virgin Valley Heritage Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Virgin Valley Veterinary Hospital. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 Warmington Residential. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 Washington Federal Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Wedgies Sports Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Back Cover Wolf Creek Terrace. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109 Write it Up! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53