View on Southern Utah

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

January/February 2015 Complimentary Issue

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editor’s letter January 1 – February 28, 2015 Volume 2 – Issue 1

Dear Readers, As we begin our second

Editor in Chief

Kathy Lee

Southern Utah Magazine,

Administrative Assistant

Jennifer Hammond

I can hardly believe what

Copy Editor

Cindy Biskup

Creative Director & Magazine Design

Trevor Didriksen The PC Guy Aloree Smith

year publishing View On

we have learned about this beautiful region and the amazing brave and talented people we have

met along the way.

We would like to sincerely thank those who have been a part of our journey for this past year. Some people are new, some have moved on but many are still with us. To all of those people, we would like to say that we are beyond grateful to have had you on the team.

Don’t forget to stop in and thank our

Contributing Writers Dawn McLain Laurel Beesley Helen Houston Creamer Gina Amodt Erin O’Brien Laurie Barker Rob Kreiger Nikk Zorbas Charlene Paul Karen Monsen Celece Segmiller Brian Hurlburt Kent Norris Donna Eads Jennifer Hammond Gary Moore Paul Noe Web Design

Trevor Didriksen The PC Guy

Advertising Sales

Kathy Lee Jennifer Hammond

Advertising Email

ads@ViewOnSouthernUtah. com

info@viewonsouthernutah.com Visit our

Support Staff

Bert Kubica

website at ViewOnSouthernUtah.com and

Distribution

Ron Wilson

Published by

View On Mesquite Magazine, Inc. 742 W. Pioneer Blvd, Suite D Mesquite, NV 89027

advertisers because without them this publication would not be possible. If you are interested in joining our advertising family, contact us at ads@viewonsouthernutah.com.

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Please continue to send your story ideas to

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follow us on Facebook to see additional current events that we could not include in this issue.

Have a Wonderful New Year!

Sincerely, Kathy Lee Editor-in-Chief

Office Fax General Inquiries

(702) 346-8439 (702) 346-4955 info@ViewOnSouthernUtah.com

2007-2014 View on Southern Utah Magazine is published by View On Mesquite 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 Mesquite staff.

All articles submitted by contributing writers are deemed correct at the time of publishing, View On Mesquite Magazine, Inc. and/or any of its affiliates accept no responsibility for articles submitted with incorrect information.

CONTENTS

CABIN COVER PHOTO COURTESY OF RUDY DE LA PAZ, BRYCE CANYON PHOTO COURTESY OF AMERICAN ADVENTURES

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Features

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12 TechSavvy 16 The Purpose Project

20 30 20 Girl on the Run

In this issue Editor’s Letter View on Healthy Lifestyles View from the Mayor Why I Love Southern Utah View on Fitness Craig Primas: Explorer & Photographer Why I Love Southern Utah View on Outdoors Don’t Weigh Me Down 30 Day Ab Challenge Spotlight on Volunteerism

Raquel Adams

28 I Get By With a Little Help from My Friends

30 32 34 36 37 38 39 42 44 46

View on Tavel Around Town View on Education View on Golf Mesquite Hot Air Balloon Festival Mountain West Baseball Mesquite Offroad Weekend Taking Care of Frost Damaged Yards Lightning Flight Healthy Recipes

In our November/December issue on pages 20-21 we failed to give photo credit to Craig Primas. We apologize for this oversite.

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The Power:

Of The Subconscious Mind

By Nikk Zorbas Imagine if you had all the information you needed to live your life exactly as you wished, and you could fulfill all your aspirations for the coming New Year. Wouldn’t it feel great to meet your goals with ease? Well, it is easier than you think, because you have it all stored in the amazing warehouse of wisdom: the subconscious mind. Everything you want to accomplish in life is stored in a blueprint within your subconscious mind, like a giant library with all of the information that you might need.

Your subconscious mind is at the heart of your power; it’s what’s really running the show and shaping your experiences in life.

Every aspect of your life is controlled by your subconscious beliefs. In order to succeed, you must program your mind to adopt a successful system that is rooted in the subconscious mind. In order to change your life for the better, you need to change your subconscious thoughts.

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Unlocking the Keys to Success

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To tap into this amazing treasure of information, it is necessary to align your conscious mind with the subconscious. Perhaps you may know of someone who says they want to quit smoking, and the verbal acknowledgment of the desire is the conscious thought process. However, their actions contradict their words, and they continue to smoke. These bad habits are repeated because the subconscious and conscious minds are not in alignment with each other, resulting in the contradiction.

Your conscious mind is what processes your active thoughts, and whatever you think about on a habitual level gets absorbed into your subconscious mind. This information forms the basis of your belief system and transcends as your thoughts. It is important to note that the subconscious mind is impartial and accepts everything you feed it as true... regardless if the information is based in truth. For this reason, it is crucial that you become aware of what you are exposed to on a daily basis, because that exposure has a direct impact on your subconscious mind since it believes all to be true.

Negative vs. Positive Thoughts There are literally thousands of books on self development and positive thinking, many of them with great ideas and concepts.

However, you cannot think your way to success if you have a negative mindset, because your negative thoughts will have a direct impact on the way your subconscious is functioning.

Positive thoughts are useless unless the subconscious is aligned with the conscious mind. Even if you force positive thoughts into your conscious mind, your subconscious will see the dissonance and you will eventually slip back into a negative mindset.

It is possible to train the amazing power of your subconscious mind to your advantage, so that you can overcome the negativity and improve your success. If your conscious mind was able to make the choices, corrections and changes, then you would have already made them in your life.

How to Reset Your Mindset Here are some suggestions to help you make effective conscious choices and reset your mindset. Keep it fun, and be creative.

Rehearse mentally. When you rehearse any physical activity in your mind such as sports, speaking, or even singing, it causes mirror neurons in your brain to fire. For example, rehearsing a dance routine mentally causes the brain to prepare your body and the muscles involved. The stronger you imagine and rehearse the activity, the more your body will respond physically. It’s important when you do mental practice to visualize yourself practicing perfectly. Practice doesn’t make perfect... perfect practice does!

Also, according to scientific studies, our bodies will fire the same internal pathways to a memory as they do to an actual event. You can actually feel the experience, even if you didn’t experience it physically.

Understand the power of repetition and consistency. The more you mentally practice certain behaviors, the more our mind and body will search for opportunities to create it. Everything is created on a subconscious level first, before it appears in your life.

The more you repeat these mental patterns, the more subconscious they become.

Watch your language. The words that come out of your mouth are a reflection of your life and your subconscious thoughts. You must recognize self-defeating language so that you can watch for it to show up during the day, and quickly self correct. If your words

view on HEALTHY LIFESTYLE are negative, then most likely you have a negative outlook on life and are attracting undesirable experiences. Pay attention to both your verbal and non-verbal self-talk, as well as the way you speak to others.

Make the best use of “The Magic 30 Minutes.” The final 30 minutes of your day before you fall asleep, and the first 30 minutes when you awake are the moments when your mind is most receptive to suggestion. At night, turn off the lights, get comfortable in your bed, and play some soothing music if you desire. Allow your body to completely relax as though you’re floating on a cloud, because the mind is more open when you are truly relaxed.

With a slight smile, give thanks for all the challenges you were presented with during the day, and for the strength you were blessed with to handle them. As you relax deeper, begin visualizing how magnificent tomorrow is going to be, and how you will handle any situation with complete confidence and tact. Your subconscious will create a perfect day as you fall deeper and deeper asleep.

If you awaken with an alarm clock, make sure it’s not an abrasive sound. Allow for some time to lie in your bed before you have to get up. Be thankful for the gift of another day of life, an opportunity to express who you are and bless the lives of other people. At this point you can set the tone for your day by reading a page or two of an inspiring book or practice some personal affirmations to train your subconscious to guide you through a wonderful day.

Change Your Conscious Choices, and You Change Your Subconscious Thought Patterns We always make the choices based on the information available to us. The key is to make beneficial conscious choices so that you can shape your subconscious thoughts. It is a self-feeding cycle: by feeding your subconscious mind success-based information, you will make better conscious choices. Do not cloud the subconscious with negativity, instead focus on positivity as much as possible. This process is similar to editing a book, where you discard the negative and useless information and optimize the information that is worth keeping.

Success is a matter of creating and maintaining a habit. In order to change what we do consciously (our habits) we must change our subconscious. Your mind is extremely powerful; the more you shape your thought patterns, the better decisions you will make.

I have always been fascinated by the human mind and how it works, especially in the way that it impacts the pursuit of increasing our human potential. In my research, I’ve concluded that we will never reach our human potential, because it’s limitless... and that’s a good thing!

Renowned Performance Trainer in the field of Business and Self-Development, Nikk Zorbas passionately helps people dream big and release their potential from within. Nikk is the Best-Selling author of “Discovering Your Personal Power” and has recently released his second book “Discover Your Business Power” now available on Amazon.com. To learn more visit www.DiscoverYourBusinessPower.com.

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view from the MAYOR

Letter from the Mayor: St. George As we begin 2015, it’s appropriate to also reflect on 2014 and the holiday season that has just concluded. I’m particularly happy that numerous events and celebrations combined a festive theme with fundraising for good causes.

The season started with the hospital’s Jubilee of Trees. This year it appeared to me that record-breaking contributions were made towards the purchase of state-of-the-art equipment to improve quality and length of life for people suffering from advanced cancers.

The second annual Day of Caring food packaging event was organized by United Way Dixie and Switchpoint Community Resource Center where volunteers packaged around 50,000 meals -- helping to fight hunger in the Washington County area.

The Gingerbread Tour Downtown St. George invited people downtown to visit art galleries, shop, and enjoy and vote on a wide variety of gingerbread houses.

This event culminated on December 12th with drawings, prizes and awards. More holiday lights made historic downtown even more inviting this year!

KONY’s Toys for Tots, the Angel Tree, the Dickens’ Festival, the Southwest Symphony Orchestra/Lieto and Community Singers’ production of Handel’s Messiah, Southern Utah Heritage Choir’s Christmas Concert, and countless other concerts and celebrations from multiple cultural and religious perspectives gave plenty of opportunities to enjoy the season and helped others right here in Washington County!

Amid this flurry of activity, work continued for everyone, including projects with the city, county and state.

The St. George City Council passed a long-awaited, diligently forged ambulance provider ordinance. This will enable us to work together with our ambulance providers for the best good of our citizens’ emergency healthcare.

The reworked intersection at Red Hills Parkway/Snow Canyon Parkway and Bluff Street opened on December 4th.

A new St. George Active Transportation Committee was formed by the mayor and city council to study and provide input to a new bicycle/pedestrian transportation plan as part of our overall transportation plan in the city. Thirteen representatives from the community have been appointed to make up this committee.

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A new Airport Advisory Board Ordinance went before the city council and was approved on December 4th, and several community members were nominated to begin serving on that board to help in the planning and development of the airport.

A request for proposals was initiated by the Washington County Solid Waste District for curbside recycling. It will ask for pricing on several different alternatives for providing this service throughout the county or just within the five or so largest cities in the county. I think it works best to do this together with neighboring cities, but I believe St. George can initiate this program in our city if it doesn’t work out to do it on a more broad basis.

The All Abilities Park project at Tonaquint was unveiled, and construction will begin on January 5, 2015. This is perhaps one of the most incredible and heart-warming projects we have undertaken. I hope we all will learn about, and where possible, make contributions of one kind or another to making this dream become a reality for generations of children of all abilities!

Finally, with the election concluded last November and the passage of the RAP Tax, the city has begun planning, pricing, and prioritizing. We will move quickly over the next few months to work together with recreation, arts and parks enthusiasts to finalize how and what projects and operations we as citizens will support through this tax revenue. No doubt there will be something for everyone to be excited about!

Have a wonderful New Year!

~ Jon Pike

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Why I Love Southern Utah

Whenever I need a recharge for my soul, I hop on my motorcycle and head to Zion, one of the most beautiful national parks we have in this country. When I get homesick for northern Utah and need the mountains and trees, I head to Pine Valley where I feel right at home. When I want some entertainment I go out to Tuachan to experience the wonderful productions they do, with the most incredible backdrop of the canyon you will ever see.

These are just a few of the many reasons I love Southern Utah. It feeds my soul.

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I grew up in northern Utah, lived back east, in Las Vegas and ended up in St. George in 1999. Little did I know I would fall in love with this place and it would end up feeling like home. We moved here to get out of the big city and have a better place to raise our kids. I got more than I bargained for!

~ Wendy Olsen

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view on FITNESS

Everything I know about health, I learned from my dog!

By Laurie Barker I often tell my clients that everyone is different and that a little self reflection is very important in developing a health and fitness program. I have discovered this concept the hard way.

On more than one occasion, I have suggested an exercise or routine only to be met with defiance. For example, I may have requested that the client try some floor exercises or use a foam roller only to be told “I’m not doing that!”

That is okay. As appealing as cloning myself may sound to me, I’m pretty sure many others, including my spouse, would not think it such a good idea. Besides, every time I smugly think I’ve figured out all the right moves, someone puts their foot in my way and I fall flat! It’s not pretty or graceful. The more I try to figure out how all the proper moves coincide with the perfect meal plan, (taking into consideration sleep, hydration, recreation, hormonal balance and supplements), the more confused I get. I have an idea of what works for me but what about my clients that eat gluten free, oil free, salt free, sugar free, fat free, preservative free, low carb or like cavemen? Oh, and did I mention that I eat a completely plant-based diet? Yikes!!

Therefore, I will use my eighteen year old dog, Sashi, as the “gold standard!” First, she’s eighteen. That’s equivalent to dead in human years so she must be doing something right.

Her priorities in life are snacks, naps, a little exercise and tolerating all life forms, even bugs. If something or someone annoys her, she lets them know her displeasure by growling but then moves on.

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Sashi’s favorite exercise related activity is to visit the goat that lives down the street. Short walks work great and she is even pretty fast at times. I am truly amazed at her tenacity.

Not all parts work correctly anymore. Her back legs pronate excessively but she has learned to compensate. She can still get out the dog door by herself. She wasn’t happy about the ramp we installed to help her navigate the step and avoided it completely for a while but she begrudgingly learned to use it and is now a real pro. She is almost blind but has learned to adapt. Cataract surgery is not in her near future.

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Sashi also trains her brain by learning new things. Sometimes it’s tied to her very survival such as learning to tread lightly around the dalmatian when he is experiencing mood swings.

Still, she seems to deal with stress quickly and efficiently and doesn’t dwell on it. I don’t think she has much cortisol gone amok, like most humans.

Sashi is mostly a grazer. She looks forward to her two main meals a day but has no qualms about snacking in between.

She loves apples, carrots, green beans, squash and bananas.

She also likes blueberries and tart cherries but has to be in the mood for them. If we are unsure whether a new food will work for her, we check with her veterinarian. Sashi doesn’t overeat because food isn’t always available. However, given the opportunity, she would not only overindulge but would eat disgusting stuff that may or may not have motor skills! She doesn’t have much self discipline or discriminating taste, so it’s

PHOTO COURTESY OF HUFFINGTON POST UK best to avoid temptation altogether. Fresh whole food works for her and she seems to thrive. She loves her vitamin and thinks it is a cookie. She has never smoked or taken illegal drugs. She believes in simplicity.

Sashi may have some dementia but she still loves us, the cat, and tolerates the dalmatian. She has a giant benign fat lump on her side. Because of her advanced age, our veterinarian does not want to remove it, so Sashi compensates. Her gait may be a bit awkward and the lump kind of spreads when she lays down but she manages. Sashi probably has a lot of wrinkles and warts underneath her fur but doesn’t mind. Her skin sags and she has a double chin but she isn’t concerned with impressing anyone at this stage of life. Sashi naps when she feels like it, sleeps well and drinks a lot of water. She has traveled across the state in the car, visited her grandma in Grand Junction by plane and hiked many of the beautiful trails in this area. Her quality of life seems pretty good. She gets a little fresh air each day.

Sashi doesn’t really care what others may think and she lives life on her terms. I have learned much from her and continue to learn.

Similarly, when hiring a coach or trainer, have a specific goal in mind.

If you are trying to please others and live up to their expectations you may not be successful, and even if you are, you may not be fulfilled. Life is short, enjoy the simplicities, savor the beauty and live it on your terms.

Laurie Nelson-Barker is a partner of Boomers Rule, Personal Training and Lifestyle Fitness Coaching. She is also the owner of Formation Fitness and Travel Training. Laurie earned a Master’s degree in Health, Physical Education and Recreation and is a Certified Personal Trainer. She has enjoyed over 30 years of conducting fitness trainings and classes.

Email: trainers@boomersrule.net Phone: 435 632-0199 Website: boomersrule.net

Craig Primas: Explorer and Photographer

By Laurel Beesley In a landscape setting that draws international photographers like bears to honey, it would be hard for any single nature photographer to stand out.

Ansel Adams loved to roam here with his camera; Dorothea Lange and John K. Hiller were heroes of photography who took turns in Southern Utah dominating the imagination of viewers with unforgettable images of some of the most astounding terrain on earth.

I remember, as a youth, being enamored with the sights I saw; the woods, clouds, the light and the sunsets. ~Craig Primas

According to Primas, his three lifetimes as a civil engineer, master planner, and finally nature photographer segued when he moved to Duck Creek Village, Utah. “I’m not a cement guy,” he notes wryly, “even if my first pictures were of my brother’s skateboarding”. He continues to reflect on that, explaining that, “I remember, as a youth, being enamored with the sights I saw; the woods, clouds, the light and the sunsets. I was in love with the sunsets, they offer so much and yet are so fleeting. It is that “moment in time” that still intrigues me. To capture that instant, with the combination of light, perspective, movement and mood is what makes

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No doubt about it, it now takes a certain panache and bravado to try and make a living in Southern Utah as a professional nature photographer. That or, it simply takes a deep and enduring personal passion. Philosopher, poet, and artistic photographer Craig Primas definitely has that passion for exploring natural beauty, for capturing the extra special “moment in time”, and for showing others how remarkable this place is.

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every image an original piece. Of course, presenting that image in a manner and form that communicates your interpretation is important. You can’t capture the same image twice... the light changes, your own interior vision has already changed with the passing moment. In a way it is sad, to think that moment in time has passed, but it is also very exciting because visions are infinite”.

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Not one to be totally swept away by the times, Primas frequently shoots on good old-fashioned daylight balanced film. For him, dealing with the delayed gratification involved is not unlike opening a Christmas present. Once the morning comes when you can open your developed film, and put it on the light table, you discover whether you’ve been naughty or nice! Not that he has anything at all against digital photography; he just gets caught up in the experience of finding the optimum medium for communicating that essential “moment in time”. It was one of those riveting moments in time that first drew him to Duck Creek Village, and the magical Cedar Mountain region. “I was on my way to go camping in Bryce Canyon, I vividly recall driving up through Cedar Canyon around midnight, the full moon illuminated the landscape and canyon walls; pine trees were silhouetted against the bright night sky.” That moment stuck firmly in his memory. He returned a number of times to fish, then in 1977 he stayed in a friend’s cabin in Meadow View Heights. He bought his first serious camera that year, a Nikkormat FT2, and his life changed. “It even changed my dog’s life,” he jokes. “We

were off and running, pretending to be the first explorers to ever see this place”.

Now, over 30 years later, he and his wife Anne live in a cabin barely 200 yards from where he first stayed.

His photographic work is shown in galleries across the United States.

His own gallery, the Craig Primas Gallery in Duck Creek Village, enjoys an expanding reputation and hosts special events throughout the year.

This spring his first book, IN THE LIGHT OF THE MOUNTAIN, appears with his “Stories Behind the Images” narratives. As an avid outdoorsman coming from a mosaic of past careers; he has witnessed the beauty, complexities and spirit of natural and man-altered environments. “I was trained to see things in a certain order, a process and rhythm; but I believe in a natural order of chaos. The shadows are my favorite. I always wonder what is in the shadow, it’s a mystery that is fascinating and makes you ask questions. I also think that we tend to take the landscape for granted, the captured image makes us slow down and really look into the details.”

Taking a workshop with Craig Primas is another way to look at the details and face a different reality. During select seasonal workshops, he challenges students to review their perceptions and their style. Not a stickler for a one-solution style of shooting, he tells students of all different levels of skill and experience that if it evokes a mood or response, then it works. Craig himself works with medium to large format film, and with lenses ranging from 10mm

fisheye to 600mm telephoto and everything in between.

He shoots in color, and in black & white, sizing his decision to fit the particular subject and mood. To put it simply, he says, “consider that beauty is variable and subjective, so must be the format and the tools.”

Craig’s choice of media on which to print his images is as flexible and inventive as his initial approach. His goal is to give viewers a visual experience as close to what he felt and saw when he snapped the shutter. After experimenting with a variety of materials, his most successful solutions appear to be on canvas, aluminum and silver halide glossy film. The naturally woven canvas print has a rich life, and texture of its own. The metal prints are a new art medium for preserving prints, and take on an almost magical luminescence with remarkable detail and resolution. To fully appreciate the impact of the images, and the different printing techniques, it is best to go to his beautiful gallery and be welcomed by a feast of perfectly displayed stunning images, and by the artist himself.

Duck Creek Village is a spectacular place to visit. The community of Duck Creek sits at 8,400 feet just off Utah Scenic Highway 14 on what is commonly known as Cedar Mountain. This area is also known as the Markagunt Plateau and is part of Dixie National Forest. The next Craig Primas Workshop adventuring into this region is coming up immediately. The “Winter Photo Tour” takes place along the Virgin Rim on January 10th – on snowmobile, with photo lessons and a wine lunch (a Primas specialty) at the edge of Zion National Park. Sign up immediately if interested. One-on-one personal training is also available.

E-mail Craig (craig@craigprimas.com) for more information.

Purchase of his new book, “In The Light of the Mountain”, and a virtual tour of the gallery are also available at www.craigprimas.com.

Craig Primas Gallery 702-528-8183 craig@cppnv.com www.craigprimas.com www.craigprimas.gallery www.facebook.com/craigprimasphotography

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When you meet Craig ask him to philosophize on the chapters of his interesting life; his stories are as fascinating as his photographs. His personal heroes of photography are Ansel Adams and Galen Rowell. To Ansel Adams he pays respect to the great artist’s study of light.

To Galen Rowell he owes a good deal of his own commando style. What is Craig’s greatest challenge these days? Deciding what he wants to shoot. By his own estimation, he could spend a lifetime taking photos in a 5-mile radius around Duck Creek Village or Kanab. The light never fails to provide magic, the landscape is unendingly diverse, and the weather dynamic.

“Sometimes I have to put my camera aside for a month or so at a time” he admits. “I need time to recharge my creative batteries, I get over-exposed to beauty!” That is not a bad problem to have.

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SOUTHERN UTAH NONPROFITS; SUCCESSFUL & GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY Making the Difference

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By DAWN MCLAIN

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Big News!! The St. George Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) has been selected as one of only 15 pilot sites to host TechSavvy, a unique one day event slated for Saturday, February 21st at Dixie State University. A grant of $6,000 will help to implement the TechSavvy Pilot Program in Southern Utah. TechSavvy is a one day career conference designed to engage girls in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through hands-on activities. Parents and families can attend concurrent workshops on how to help their girls pursue college and career paths in STEM. Locally the program will be spearheaded by Dr. Erin O’Brien and Rachel Ramsey, both instructors at Dixie State University. St. George was selected in part due to the success of AAUW St. George Branch’s enormous success with eSMART Camp for Girls, of which the DSU’s dynamic-duo will also lead for the Summer of 2015.Want to know more about this exciting program? Me too! Dr. Erin O’Brien shares the scoop with View on Southern Utah.

VOSU: First of all, congrats to you and AAUW. This will be a great addition to the programs you are already working with, right?

ERIN O’BRIEN (EO): Yes! In Saint George AAUW sponsors education programs including the new TechSavvy as well as eSMART Camp for Girls. We also fund a scholarship for women returning to college and graduates of a local alternative high school. Actually, eSMART is how I got involved with AAUW initially. I was first recruited to help with the summer camp and joined AAUW as I became increasingly involved with the program, which in turn allowed me to get to know the amazing women and men who are local members or support the camp.

What an amazing experience for my daughter, Jillian!! She will always remember attending this camp and all that she learned there. Thank you so much for taking such good care of her and inspiring her for the future.” ~ Kat Garrard, Mother of an eSMART Campe VOSU: So, how long have you been involved with the organization?

EO: Approximately three years now.

VOSU: I know TechSavvy has a grant associated with it to help with the launch, but how are the other programs/services funded?

EO: Right now, we hold two fundraisers a year. The first one is to fund the scholarship program. We have an author event in the fall where we invite an amazing author to give a short presentation on their work, enjoy good food, hold a silent auction and cap the evening off with a live auction. It is great fun and last year we raised more than $20,000. To help fund the summer camp we host a luncheon with a fashion show, silent auction and live auction in the early spring. In addition,

we receive funding through grants from private and corporate foundations. TechSavvy is largely funded by a grant from the national AAUW organization. The remaining costs are covered

by Dixie State University’s School of Science and Technology. Of course, we are still looking for in-kind donations and sponsorships, so if you’re reading this, please feel free to learn more about supporting the program! Though we do charge tuition for the camps and educational programs, they are heavily subsidized by our fundraising and we also offer scholarships for our summer camp programs.

VOSU: What will the camp be like for the girls and their parents?

What is unique about TechSavvy is what happens while the girls are learning. We will also be providing workshops for parents and guardians that will provide information about paying for college, the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) process, Pell Grants, scholarships, how to help your girls be college ready and more! We are really excited to help parents support the success of our young, future female leaders.

VOSU: TechSavvy will be a great addition to eSMART Camp for Girls, and the scholarship program for sure! How many girls can attend, and is there an application process?

EO: Online registration just began (mid-December 2014). This event is for girls ages 6-9th grade and their parents or guardians. The event will be held in St. George, Utah at Dixie State University. eSMART Camp for Girls always has a waiting list, and we hope TechSavvy will too. We have 100 total spots for girls, and expect at least 50 parents, but are hoping for a lot more!

VOSU: What will the cost be to the student attendees? Will there be a cost for the parents as well?

EO: There are fees, but they are nominal because of the wonderful support from AAUW and DSU. The cost for girls will be just $10 per student and $5 per parent attending. The goal is to create interest and excitement in STEM careers for the girls, and to support parents to facilitate their daughters’ career goals by providing a college education using the information we present.

VOSU: Wow – amazing! I can’t imagine TechSavvy won’t have a waiting list!

EO: I hope so, that would be an exciting and great way to launch a new program. Actually, the next twelve months are very exciting for us. In February we will be providing fun activities to show girls how exciting STEM careers are at TechSavvy. Then, our new team will be directing the eSMART Girl’s Camp. I am working with Rachel Ramsay, another

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EO: The day begins with hands-on workshops in various math and science fields. Girls will select from workshops including Lego Robotics, Computer Programming, Microbiology, Anatomy, Astronomy, Chemistry and more! The second portion of the day focuses on “savvy skills.” These are skills girls can use in their daily lives, such as critical thinking, sharing opinions, public speaking, and knowledge about financial literacy, negotiation, and interviewing. TechSavvy is an opportunity to reach girls from 6-9th grade, which will expand our influence on girls at the intermediate school level from the eSMART Campers, who are girls entering the eighth grade. We only received confirmation of the Award in mid-October, so the timing is tight. My Co-Chair, Rachel Ramsey attended the committee chair training November 8-9, 2014, at the AAUW offices in Washington D.C.

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professor at Dixie State, to organize the camp this year. We hope to carry on with the amazing traditions established by the camp directors who built the program into the tremendous success it is today. We will also be adding more computer science and engineering topics to the camp since those are the two careers where women have actually decreased in numbers over the past decade and where women are in especially high demand in the workforce. And, finally, we will also be adding an extra day to camp this year so that we can take the campers out to Zion National Park for a day to learn about science outside of the lab.

VOSU: YES, that is an exciting year! How can others support your cause?

EO: Spread the word about these opportunities if you know girls of the appropriate age (eSMART is for girls the summer before 8th grade, Tech Savvy is for girls between 6- 9th grade).

Another wonderful year. Thanks to the amazing women who make it possible. You ladies rock! I’m glad I can be a small bit of it.” ~ Melissa Goodwin, Workshop Instructor

We would love to connect with the local PTAs to help us enroll as many girls as possible. Given the funding we have to help cover the costs of these events, we want to make sure that they are all aware of these great opportunities. We are always in need of volunteers, and in-kind donations for the girls. At several special events throughout the camp and now the TechSavvy program, we try to have door prizes and so we are always in need of more. For TechSavvy, this includes door prizes for the parents in addition to items suitable for 6-9th grade girls. We will be holding our annual luncheon/fashion show/auction fundraiser for the eSMART camp in February and it would be great if we could have a large community turnout at that event to help support the camp.

VOSU: Thank you so much Erin, best of luck with the launch of TechSavvy, I am sure the program will be a huge success!

Learn more, or sign your child up today!

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

Dr. Erin O’Brien, DSU Dept. of Biological Sciences TechSavvy Co-Chair Phone: 435-652-7761 Email: obrien@dixie.edu

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Rachel Ramsay, DSU Assistant Professor, Digital Design TechSavvy Co-Chair Phone: 435-879-4348 Email: ramsay@dixie.edu Dawn McLain is the Owner/ President of Write It Up!, Write It Up! is 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, please email her at dawn@writeituponline.com.

Why I Love Southern Utah

~ Rich Csenge

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

Southern Utah excites me with its astounding diversity of natural beauty. Because our national public lands in Utah are so accessible for exploration and enjoyment, I created an annual festival to celebrate them. The experience of spiritual renewal available to everyone who ventures into this natural heritage is deeply nourishing.

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tHE PURPOSE PROJECT

By Gina Amodt

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

There comes a time in everyone’s life when tragedy strikes and it fills our minds with thoughts such as, “I could have done more, I should have tried harder, why did my loved one leave?” Such is what occurred in the life of Elizabeth Van Meter when her outgoing, courageous, accomplished younger sister lost her battle with depression. Van Meter’s life spiraled out of control. It took a missed flight, an unexpected trip to an old friend, and a photo of an unlikely soulmate to turn her life around.

Thao, this unlikely “soul sister,” is a Vietnamese woman who lives everyday with the debilitating effects of Agent Orange. Her simple and humble goal in life was to have more books for her library so the village children could satiate their thirst for knowledge. Within five months of hearing Thao’s story, Van Meter was on her way to Vietnam to fulfill Thao’s wish for more books in her makeshift library.

This was a turning point for Elizabeth Van Meter.

She found purpose in her life and a reason to go on; The Purpose Project was born. They created a video to help raise money to build Thao and the children in her village a new library. Within a year of her first meeting Thao, Van Meter had raised enough money to build the library! Some may wonder who the big donors were, but Van Meter will say there weren’t any big donors.

Instead there are pages and pages filled with the names of those who wanted to help and offered ten, twenty and fifty dollars at a time.

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Thao’s Library, inspired the creation of a solo show that encompasses her journey from over whelming guilt, sadness, and blame to a life of giving, creating, and inspiring wholesome change. This one woman show, presented at the All For One Theater Festival at Cherry Lane in NYC, was performed in Southern Utah at the DSU campus on November 8, 2014.

The show was followed by a question and answer discussion. Those in attendance expressed their amazement and awe, as well as pointed questions regarding the future of The Purpose Project. The host for DSU hailed Van Meter’s performance as “eloquently statuesque.” Another praised Van Meter saying that people like her are what makes things right in the world. A young girl named India Taylor read Vicki Van Meter’s book and wondered if it was in Thao’s library. Van Meter’s “Yes!” was resounding. She brought that book to Thao on

to ship. While in Vietnam, Van Meter’s group was warned that some orphanages could only be trusted with perishable items that had to be used quickly. Money and other donated items were pocketed or sold.

her very first trip to Vietnam. There were also those who wondered if she ever got over her sister’s death. Her response was timeless. “I will never know exactly why, and that’s ok. The grief never goes away, but your relationship to it changes.”

To offer support monetarily, or in service, as well as to submit a person you know for the next Purpose Project, go to www.the-purpose-project.org/donate or email at elizabethvanmeter@gmail.com

So, what does the future hold for Elizabeth Van Meter and The Purpose Project? She says they will create a documentary series capturing the lives of those people who create a ripple in their communities around the world. For this reason, The Purpose Project has a fiscal sponsor, Fractured Atlas, with 501c3 status. Through this sponsorship The Purpose Project is able to accept tax deductible donations. Van Meter offers good insight for those who want to donate. She says that books are too expensive

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

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view on OUTDOORS

Archaeological Sites at Risk: Ensuring a Future for the Past

By Karen L. Monsen Choices today will determine the future for archaeological and cultural resources in Southern Utah. Rock art sites are disappearing at an alarming rate, being swallowed by subdivisions or damaged by vandals. Irreplaceable resources once protected by anonymity and inaccessibility are disclosed through social media and accessed by ATVs. Although non-profit groups like Tread Lightly promote responsible ATV recreation and stewardship, the power sports industry has grown exponentially and visitation to previously remote locations has increased dramatically. Clearly, if rock art is to survive on public and private property, more people must be engaged in education to foster respect for archaeological sites and the land. In Southern Utah, acronym named groups involved with rock art preservation include BLM, SHPO, URARA, and WRAR.

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BLM (Bureau of Land Management) The BLM balances and prioritizes land use and expectations on public lands. The Utah BLM is responsible for the stewardship of more than 22 million acres. Their multi-use mission is “to manage public land resources for a variety of uses, such as energy development, livestock grazing, recreation, and timber harvesting, while protecting a wide array of natural, cultural, and historical resources.” Not surprisingly, when conflict arises among multi-users restrictions follow that replace multi-use with limited use.

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In our every deliberation, we must consider the impact of our decisions on the next seven generations.” ~ Iroquois Maxim (1700-1800)

SHPO (State Historic Preservation Office) Utah’s SHPO promotes research, study, and activities in the field of antiquities by protecting, preserving, and developing archaeological resources. Per Utah State Antiquities Code, SHPO maintains a master list of Utah archaeological sites.

Antiquities Section Data Manager Arie Leeflang reports that less than ten percent of the state has been surveyed for cultural resources. Sites listed in SHPO and BLM records are afforded

varying degrees of protection, but unrecorded sites fall through the cracks, hence the emerging need for more site recording.

URARA (Utah Rock Art Research Association) WRAR (Western Rock Art Research) Non-profits including URARA and WRAR are in a race against time to record rock art sites. At the 2014 URARA symposium in Kanab, Utah members received status reports detailing vandalism in Nine Mile Canyon, bullet damage to rock art from target shooting at Utah Lake, pictographs erased by cattle rubbing against canyon walls, and unintentional site destruction from mineral extraction, road construction, commercial development, and natural forces. Anonymity and inaccessibility can no longer provide sufficient protection. Education, stewardship, and recording efforts must increase.

the 2014 URARA symposium. Bulletts, the Cultural Resource Director, requested that rock writing or story rock be substituted when describing rock art. The word art fails to convey the utility, cultural, social, and spiritual aspects. Due to sacred associations and personal connections to some images Bulletts admits, “I don’t tell the archaeologists the whole story.”

Today’s choices regarding road cuts, access, mineral extraction, grazing, recreation, and land development will determine which cultural resources and rock writing panels survive. To ensure a future for the past archaeological evidence of human history, we must teach our children to respect the land and we must choose wisely.

Recording Efforts WRAR was founded in 2006 in Bishop, California to “promote and facilitate the preservation and scientific research of prehistoric and historic rock art heritage resources on private and public lands.” From 2008 to April 2014, WRAR recorded 142 sites in Washington County, Utah reaching some by backpacking. Additionally, WRAR President Don Christensen with friends and colleagues recorded 475 cultural heritage sites in the Grand Canyon, Kaibab National Forest, and surrounding areas.

Ancient images upon rocks, while elusive in terms of meaning, still retain the power to reach out across the chasm of time and connect with modern day people.” ~Rock Art of the Grand Canyon Region by Don Christensen, Jerry Dickey, and Steven Freers

While site recording is essential, Christensen underscores the importance of considering the cultural landscape; that rock art must be studied in the context of its environment, archaeology, ethnography, and history including tribal perspectives.

Historically, tribal members have been reluctant to share information. More recently, some are speaking out. Charley Bulletts and Benn Pikyavit of the Kaibab Paiute Band spoke at

For Additional Information: BLM Utah www.blm.gov/ut/st/en.html Western Rock Art Research www.westernrockartresearch.com Utah Rock Art Research Association www.utahrockart.org Dixie Archaeology Society www.dixierockart.webs.com Utah State Historic Preservation Office www.heritage.utah.gov/history/shpo-compliance

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In 2013, WRAR researcher David Lee instructed Dixie Archaeology Society (DAS) members in rock art recording techniques. Using IMACS (Intermountain Antiquities Computer System) forms, they captured measurements, orientation, inclination, repatination levels, distance from soil, field sketches, position data, photos, and information on the surrounding area. Lee encourages volunteer efforts, “Joining the Utah Archaeological Site Stewardship Program is an ideal way to learn more about these windows to the past and help to ensure they endure for future generations to learn from and enjoy.”

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

She covers outdoor topics, nature, science, research, and human impacts.

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Girls on the Run SOUTHERN UTAH NONPROFITS; SUCCESSFUL & GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY Making the Difference

of young women in our area.

I sat down with Melissa Miller, Executive Director of Girls on the Run Southern Utah to learn more about their program.

VOSU: Melissa, let’s start by learning more about Girls on the Run. Melissa Miller (MM): Girls on the Run Southern Utah is a physical activity based positive youth development program for 3rd - 5th grade girls, designed to develop and enhance girls social, psychological, and physical competencies to successfully navigate life experiences. Over the course of the program, girls will develop and improve competence, feel confidence in who they are, develop strength of character, respond to others and themselves with care and compassion, create positive connections with peers and adults, and make a meaningful contribution to their local community and society as a whole.

By DAWN MCLAIN

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

As a young woman (too many years ago!), I had the opportunity to participate in track and cross country. For nearly a decade I participated in outdoor track, indoor track, cross country and a lot of many road races. I was able to run in several states and Junior Olympics, in short I loved it! Sports played a vital role in the person I am today on so many levels.

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Research shows that in addition to improved physical health, sports play a primary role in youth development. The benefits include better academic achievement, higher self-esteem, fewer behavioral problems and improved psychosocial development.

Many studies have focused on the effects on the five “C’s” of sports which include competence, confidence, connections, character and caring; all of which are considered critical components of development for youth. The discipline of training, learning teamwork, good sportsmanship, following the leadership of coaches and captains, and learning to lose, provide lifelong skills for athletes to help them succeed both on and off the track.

I personally feel that programs that develop and support our youth to become successful adults and leaders in our community, is a win in my book!! That is why I am so pleased to share this story with our readers. Southern Utah has a new nonprofit organization that will truly make a difference in the lives

I’m new to the Southern Utah area and was looking for a way to get involved in the community.

I looked to join the Southern Utah Council of GOTR but discovered it didn’t exist yet! The International Council sent me Melissa’s name as someone else in the area that is passionate about helping girls learn to soar. She has put an amazing board of directors together and we are working hard and looking forward to our first two program sites this spring!” ~ Michelle Cloud, Board Chair at Girls on the Run Southern Utah VOSU: Wow! That is an incredible program, with some very real and tangible goals. What type of impact will this bring to our local community?

MM: Building these life skills will help in the prevention of unhealthy and risky behaviors, such as physical inactivity and negative body image, and promote positive physical, mental, social and spiritual health outcomes.

Our girls of the future will be better equipped to navigate life challenges, stand up to injustices and make our future world a

better place to live in. The impact of this type of positive development will be far reaching and lifelong.

VOSU: How did you get involved with the organization?

MM: Two years ago I was looking for volunteer opportunities and I came across Girls on the Run. It intrigued me because I am a mother of two young girls and the lessons taught in this program are those that I believe in and have a true passion for, and I want my girls to experience an opportunity like this program. Much to my surprise, there was not a council here in St. George. It was a shock because of all places around North America; Southern Utah has year round weather that accommodates outdoor activities and we have a great deal of children here! Fast forward 18 months and I was in a position to spearhead the Southern Utah Council. The board of directors, which are all inspiring individuals themselves, and I have been officially involved with Girls on the Run Southern Utah (GOTRSU) since October, so we are very new. We have announced our Spring 2015 program at two schools, (Vista Charter and Sandstone Elementary) and we are very excited to work with the girls this Spring.

VOSU: So, being a brand new organization to Southern Utah, how are your programs/services funded?

MM: It would not be fair to name only one person. In fact, I don’t even have one person in mind, I have several. I have been lucky to have so many role models in my life and who have all helped shape me in some fashion. Friends and family have supported me throughout my life to both speak up and be heard.

VOSU: What can we expect from your organization in 2015?

MM: GOTRSU is launching our Spring 2015 program in two schools. By the end of 2015, our goal is to be running full programs in eight schools throughout Washington County. We will look to serve both St. George and Cedar City by the end of 2015.

VOSU: That will definitely take stamina and determination, and maybe a team of supporters too. How can others support your cause?

MM: Our organization is run by volunteers. We are looking for coaches, running buddies and board members. We are in need of additional funding as well. Corporate sponsorships and individual donations are always welcome! Overall, spreading the word about GOTRSU will help too. This is a wonderful program to be involved with.

VOSU: What events or opportunities do you have coming up for the community to get involved in?

MM: Our first Spring 5K will be in May of 2015. At the end of each program all coaches, students, families, and volunteers run a celebratory 5K. Anyone can join our run and cheer on each girl as they cross the finish line! Check our website for more information. www.gotrsouthernutah.org.

VOSU: What else would you like to share?

MM: Good question! GOTRSU programs are funded mainly by sponsor and individual donations. Grants are another source we intend to tap into as our programs develop locally. There is a nominal fee for participants; however, we provide scholarships for many girls that do not have the financial means. We include all girls, no matter what their situation is financially, at home, in school, etc. All girls can benefit from the program, and we encourage all young women to participate.

MM: This year has been my greatest accomplishment! I’ve endured many changes and struggles and somehow have come out better because of it.

If I have to identify one accomplishment from this year, it is building Girls on the Run of Southern Utah. This process has taught me a lot about myself. I am finally learning I have a voice and my voice can make a difference. Knowing that this program will positively impact others makes it even that much more meaningful.

VOSU: Who has been your megaphone, blasting your voice to the masses, or just encouraging you to speak up?

VOSU: That sounds like a program where everybody wins!

Thanks for taking the time to visit with us Melissa!

Melissa Miller Executive Director Girls on the Run Southern Utah (435) 703-0299 Melissa.miller@girlsontherun.org www.gotrsouthernutah.org Dawn McLain is the Owner/ President of Write It Up!, Write It Up! is 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, please email her at dawn@writeituponline.com.

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

VOSU: It sounds like you have already done a lot to make this happen for our community. Tell us about your accomplishments?

MM: Our mission is to inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running. Our programs have a spot for anyone to be part of the team, and I look forward to working with the many volunteers, parents, girls and coaches this year.

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By Charlene Paul

e M h g i e W t Don’ Down

As we bid farewell to 2014 and welcome 2015, most of us will began the New Year with a list of resolutions, and I’ll bet a good number of those lists have losing weight and getting in shape at the top. I have set that same goal year after year with some success, but mostly failure, so losing weight and getting in shape still tops my list.

Once upon a time, long, long ago, I belonged to an internet weight loss group. Each week we posted our weight losses or gains, and encouraged one another with words of wisdom, little golden nuggets of thought, or jovial gems. It was a fun group of women who were experiencing some of the same struggles I was having, and they made weight loss fun. Well, not exactly fun, more like tolerable.

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One week a team member logged a 101.4 pound weight loss – in one week! At first glance, all I could think of was that poor woman being reduced to a bandana and a pair of boots. It had to be a typo. No one could lose that much weight in one week.

We all made funny comments, and she corrected it to a 1.4 pound weight loss.

Whew.

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As I thought about that a few days ago, I realized this year I could beat that crazy number. I could lose over a thousand pounds of aggravating weight that has kept me so stressed out I could barely put one foot in front of the other. Weight that has created great turmoil in my life and in the lives of everyone around me. Weight that has demanded great amounts of physical time and horrendous amounts of mental effort. Weight that has slowly squeezed the life out of me, and I could do it in the first two weeks of 2015.

You might think I should have proofread this article before submitting it because surely no one could lose a thousand pounds in a year, let alone in two weeks. Let me explain: One day last week I awoke with a raging headache, muscle and joint soreness, and could barely drag myself out of bed. The excess weight threatened to once again get the best of me. My only thought was what I was going to eat for breakfast and for the rest of the day. The bag of fun-size Snickers in the kitchen cabinet called to me, “Charlene, we’re here. We can make all of your problems disappear. Come enjoy a mouthful of chocolaty deliciousness.”

Exercise was the furthest thing from my mind.

But on that glorious day, I made a decision that I believe will change my life. I decided to stop piling things on my shoulders that don’t belong there. I made up my mind to stop trying to fix things that I had not broken. I chose to stop feeling guilty for the mistakes of others. In short, I decided to give my loved ones back their lives, their challenges, their blunders, and their lapses in judgment. That may sound somewhat radical, but believe me, it is something I must do. While I still love my family and will continue to pray for them, to support them, and to worry within reason, I will no longer carry their burdens.

Once my decision was made, my head stopped pounding, my muscles and joints didn’t feel as achy, and I wanted to take a long, quiet walk.

Oh, the bag of fun-size Snickers still beckoned, but their siren song was weakening.

I wonder how many others carry weight on their shoulders that isn’t their’s to carry. We can’t change in others what they won’t change for themselves. We can’t fix things we didn’t break in the first place. No matter how much

time we give to worrying and fretting, depression and despair, there are things over which we have no control, and those are the things that weigh the most.

If losing weight and getting back in shape is at the top of your New Year’s Resolution List for 2015, take a look in the mirror. Not at your hair or your face.

Don’t focus on your hips and your thighs. Forget about your waist. Instead, look at your shoulders; I mean really look. Do they droop from the weight of your world? Do your arms hang limp at your sides?

Is your posture less than straight and tall? If so, look at what you are carrying that you need to lose, and then lose it! Refuse to pick it back up. Turn it loose.

Of course, we will always feel concern for our loved ones, and with that concern sometimes comes worry. So if you need to worry for a little while, give yourself time to fret, maybe ten minutes, maybe an hour; then free yourself from that load. You will be amazed at how much lighter you feel and how much

more in shape your mind is.

This weight loss won’t show up on the scale right away, but given time and effort, it will manifest itself very plainly in those numbers. You will walk with more confidence, experience a myriad of emotions, and find other things to do besides eat when you aren’t hungry.

I’m no fitness expert, but I have been on enough diets and lost enough pounds over the years to know that unless I fix what weighs down my shoulders, I will never reach my goal of losing weight and getting in shape.

I don’t know about you, but I want 2015 to be different than years past when my resolution to beat my weight problem fell to the side within the first forty-eight hours. This year I will not only keep that resolution, but I will continue to work to free myself of weight that isn’t mine to carry. I challenge you to do the same, let’s not let life weigh us down.

Who’s with me?

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30 DAY AB

BY GARY MOORE CROSSFIT LEVEL 1 TRAINER

Having great core strength is important in everything we do. No matter what exercise or activity the CORE, which is your mid-section including your stomach, back and abdominal muscles must be engaged to be effective. Abdominal muscles have many important functions, including breathing, coughing, and sneezing, and maintaining posture and speech. This is useful for improving back health and eliminating back pain.

Together lets start the year off right. We would like to challenge everyone in Southern Utah to a 30 Day AB Challenge.

The challenge is to perform 100 reps of AB exercises each day for 30 days. You can do them all at once or break them up throughout the day. Don’t think that you can get through 100? There is an answer for that!

You can scale the workout. If you are a beginner, only do 25 per day total. If you are ready for Intermediate then perform 50 AB exercises for the 30 days.

Here are just a few great AB exercises to get you going. Great examples can easily be found on the Internet.

If you want to see working examples search YouTube using any of the following:

Russian Twist V-Up

V-Ups or Tuck Ups

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Hollow Rocks

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Hanging Leg Raises Sit-Ups Crunches

Knees to Elbows Side Plank

Weighted side bends Superman Hold - 5 sec. = 1 rep.

Planks/ Side Planks - 5 sec. hold = 1 rep.

L-sits Holds - 5 sec = 1 rep.

Flutter Kick

CHALLENGE Toes to Bar

Crunch

Reverse Leg Crunches Russian Twists Flutter Kicks Lying Leg Raises Candlesticks The goal is to get everyone active. From beginners to advanced, these exercises will help get your core going.

The best way to be successful with exercise is to have help from others. Let us know how you’re doing by posting your progress on View on Southern Utah’s Facebook page. You can also find the link to Facebook on our website at: www.viewonsouthernutah.com Good luck!.

3-2-1 GO!!!

All of my life I have been active but fitness was not always my life. I was introduced to CrossFit in 2006 and I knew this type of workout was perfect for me. Functional movements and training to be better at life really inspired me to help others looking to make positive changes in their fitness. I became a Level 1 Certified CrossFit coach in 2009. CrossFit has prepared me both mentally and physically for life. I am always looking for new challenges and love coaching those looking to reach their goals no matter what their fitness level. Please feel free to contact me at 702-250-5491 with questions or any help you may need to reach your goals.

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

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spotlight on: Making the Difference – Southern Utah Volunteers Giving Back to the Community We Love – Raquel Adams, Information Technology Coordinator, the Learning Center for Families

BY DAWN MCLAIN Welcome to 2015 View on Southern Utah Readers!!

As we enter our second year in publication, I have looked back on some of the many charitable organizations and exceptional volunteers we have highlighted during our inaugural year, and I am amazed at how generous the Southern Utah community really is.

As a local resident, writer and active volunteer, I have a vested interest in creating and supporting success Raquel Adams and sustainability for organizations that play a vital role in providing the quality of life we have all come to enjoy across Utah. I would like to personally invite you to celebrate, and enjoy learning about, the individuals who make a difference in the lives of others every day.

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Here at VOSU, we felt it only appropriate to kick the year off highlighting one of the best Volunteers in all of Southern Utah, Raquel Adams, Information Technology Coordinator for one of my favorite nonprofit organizations, The Learning Center for Families (TLC).

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The organization is successful in all programs in no small part due to the exceptional team of over 320 staff and 250 volunteers. These programs are funded through federal, state and local grants, fee-based programs, private donations and various other foundation or private corporation based funding.

TLC’s programs impact thousands of people each year. While the organization is truly exceptional, what creates this unheard of success is the passion of those involved. That’s where Raquel comes in – and really shines!

Eight years ago, Raquel interviewed for a position with TLC, never dreaming she would get it. Simply reading the job posting, Adams knew it was everything she was looking for. “I still thank my lucky stars that I have a job that I can spend my days as a geek while also helping others, two things that make me tick” she says. As most IT Professionals would attest to, you have to love that inner geek AND multi-tasking. “I am the Network Administrator, Helpdesk, Social Media person. You name it, I do it. I never have the same day twice, and I love it.”

In fact, her exuberance for serving others is impressive, and exhausting at the same time. It’s that passion I mentioned earlier, you can see it in every facet of her life, and it’s infectious in the best possible way!

Raquel makes it possible for everyone on a family’s team to be on the same page. She keeps all of the systems running smoothly so that we can focus on our clients and she does so with a smile on her face. She is a big part of the glue around here.” ~Kerry Fewell, Co-Worker

TLC offers early childhood education and family support services throughout Washington County and as far as Fredonia, AZ, Hilldale, UT and Beaver Dam, AZ. Their mission is to promote the success of children one family at a time.

And, let me just say, they really take their mission to heart.

The 21 year old organization’s free programs (a couple of TLC’s programs have financial eligibility requirements, though they do offer scholarships/funding on a case by case basis if a family in need is not eligible) include Early Intervention; Early Head Start; Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting; Utah Baby Watch Early Intervention; Parents as teachers; Healthy Families America; First Things First; the fee-for-service program Arizona Early Prevention Program and the organization’s tuition based program Kindermusik.

As if providing technical support, web services, social media, A/V services, etc. to more than 320 staff, 250 volunteers and countless families isn’t enough, there’s more…… sounds like an infomercial where they keep going and going and going, plus it makes mounds and mounds of julienne fries, right? It should, you need that kind of energy just to keep up!

Over the years, I have had the pleasure of working with Raquel through TLC and on other community projects, committees and more. She is absolutely a person who deserves to live a life she loves, and to revel in the passion of making a difference in the lives of others.

After being widowed at a young age, with two small children, she set her mind to making a life for herself and her children.

Her two girls are a reflection of her greatest accomplishment and the most wonderful gift she has ever received, parenthood. Those days of working three jobs were the most trying of her life, but they taught her what she is capable of, which is anything she puts her mind to. “One of those jobs re-ignited the childhood geek in me, and led me to a career doing something that I love. There is opportunity around every corner!” she exclaimed. Though the story is heartbreaking, the self-described “geek” is one heck of an inspiration.

“In my free time (insert laugh here) I founded and operate a portal for lost and found pets here in Southern Utah. Animals are one of my passions in life. In addition to that, I try to donate either time or resources to a multitude of organizations. The most recent being the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. My daughters and I raised money and participated in the local Walk out of Darkness; it was a fantastic experience for all of us.”

TLC has always encouraged their team to give of themselves and their time whenever possible, just as others have done for their families. A concept Adams has taken to heart. In addition to working for and volunteering at TLC she is also involved in the following organizations; Non Profit Technology Network member, UPR supporter/donor, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Love Utah Give Utah, Utah Nonprofit Association Member and Southern Utah Committee member, American Association of University Women National Member, and, as she says, “more to come!”

(Are you thinking about mounds and mounds of julienne fries again??)

I am pretty sure the award has a prestigious place on her

Poor, amazing Raquel, our Queen Geek in a land where more than half the workforce is computer illiterate, but there is nothing she won’t do to make sure that all our gear works and heaven knows we are working as hard as we can to break stuff all over again!” ~ Debbie Justice, Executive Director, The Learning Center for Families

In closing, I asked Raquel to share her perspective on giving back. She said, “I was raised with the knowledge that to give is far more rewarding than to receive. Community is just that - community. It is the sum of all of us, and it takes all of us to make it work. I aim to be of service to our community, whether it be donating my time and resources, or just by paying it forward to someone in need. Being involved with TLC has opened my eyes and heart to the nonprofit world, and what a blessing that has been. I can’t begin to explain what an amazing network of people I have met over the years, and I look forward to meeting and working with many more. I truly feel like I have found my calling in life, how cool is that? We have so many great organizations in our area, many that folks might not be familiar with. Chances are, there is at least one, if not many that have a need for your particular talent, or just a helping hand on a project. It’s a fun and rewarding way to spend your time.” Her perspective sums up why she is such a dedicated employee and great volunteer, and one that View on Southern Utah is blessed to highlight in this issue – and that’s a cool thing!

(Now, can I get those fries?)

• • • •

Support TLC or Get Involved Today!

Donate dollars, coats, hats, clothes, diapers and more to help support TLC families.

Attend a Spring or Winter TLC Join the Friends of TLC sponsors at the annual 10k/5k Run each Spring!

Help coordinate “adoption” of families for the holidays, which helps provide clothing and much needed items for families involved in our program(s). www.tlc4families.org

Dawn McLain is the Owner/ President of Write It Up!, Write It Up! is 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, please email her at dawn@writeituponline.com.

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

Raquel is part of the Utah Nonprofits Association Committee, and we affectionately call her Nerdalicious. Why? She fits it perfectly. According to the Urban Dictionary, Nerdalicious is 1. The definition of a nerd who is the extreme in his area of nerdology, but is extremely and uncannily attractive nonetheless. 2. A person that is so contained with awesomeness and nerdiness that they are so nerdy they exceed possible superior nerd ranking. 3. When something or someone is more nerdy than usual this would be nerd-a-licious. Her skills, expertise and willingness to just jump in and save the day has helped our team many times!

The Utah Nonprofits Association Southern Utah Committee (UNASUC) even gave Raquel an award to recognize her dedication to geekdom, “Most Nerdalicious”.

office wall! Ok, perhaps not, but the fun, spirited team at TLC definitely appreciates a good laugh, a lot of love, and a dedicated, strong team that is the epitome of “Family”. When you have the opportunity to work with more than 300 people, all passionate about the same cause and loving what they do, you can’t help but have an appreciation and a love of life that beckons for you to share.

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I Get By With a Little Help From My (designer) Friends

By Helen Houston Creamer

Sometimes we need a little help with our homes.

Whether we have lived in our homes for two months or twenty years, we all need to change things up from time to time. Our lives are ever changing and this should also be reflected in our living spaces. Changes can be simple, the purchase of a few new accessories, or perhaps a painting.

But maybe a big change is due, a new paint color, some new furniture, perhaps even a remodel.

Following are some very simple secrets from some well known interior designers to help you transform your living space to best reflect your style and personality.

1. “The first rule about decorating is that you can break almost all the other rules.”

~ Billy Baldwin Something almost all decorators will tell you is that rules are meant to be broken. It is more important that the decor in your home reflects your living style and your personality than any conventional rule. It is important, however, to find balance so that a home doesn’t become too stale and boring or too busy and distracting.

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2. ”Never push furniture up against the walls. By pulling your seating arrangement in (even just a few inches) you instantly warm up a space and create flow.” ~ Betsy Burnham

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While each designer has his or her own trick to transforming a room, they unanimously believe that a home should feel well lived in, represent the homeowners interests and passions, and should never be too serious. Above this cozy library manages to do it all. This library is warm and inviting while giving us glimpses into the owner’s own life.

3. “Ceilings must always be considered.

They are the most neglected space in a room.”

~ Albert Hadley When decorating one’s home a person tends to immediately think of the walls, followed by the furniture and then the floor, but rarely do people think of what’s overhead. This gold ceiling manages to do several things in this room. It reflects the natural light coming in from the oversized windows, it adds depth and warmth to the room, and it certainly adds a touch of whimsy.

4. “Pinches of color keep a room feeling youthful and engaging.”

~ Christina Murphy Many people are afraid to paint their walls a bright color. Color can also be added through accessories.

Lovely blankets, vases, paintings, pillows and rugs are a wonderful way to add a pop of color.

Start in small increments.

Perhaps add a colorful lamp, then you can add a vase, the blanket, and if you are ready try tackling larger areas. Color really does affect your mood and can make your living space a happy and energetic one.

5. “Use wallpaper in unexpected places: on the ceiling, in a paneled room, in closets, hallways and small foyers. A great pattern or texture in small spaces can be a prodigious twist.”

~ Lindsay Coral Harper It’s always fun to walk in to someone’s home and find the unexpected.

A formal dining room with a bright colored ceiling, a white hallway and an unexpected colorful stairwell.

A simple white bedroom may offer up a playful surprise with a fun patterned papered wall in the closet. In the room above one’s eye is immediately drawn upward to the playful yet elegant ceiling.

6. “I appreciate history but you have to bring your own experience into your rooms.” ~ Istvan Francer What makes your home uniquely your own home are the things you have in it. Showcase your personal possessions to reveal your personality, adventures, and achievements. Mix your accessories with new and old. We all have a past, present and a future and these are all a part of our personal histories.

Don’t be afraid to try something new. You can always change it. Furniture can be rearranged and walls can be repainted.

As with all things, in home decor, try something new, you might like it. Start small if you must, then go bigger.

Another area where all designers seem to agree is the importance of comfort in one’s home. It doesn’t matter what your own personal style is; whether you are elegant and sophisticated or casual and whimsical, whether you are a minimalist, eclectic, classic, bohemian - the most important thing is to make your home livable. A well designed home is one that is both comfortable and functional.

9. “The most important thing? Perfect lighting at all times.”

~ Oscar de la Renta Natural light is best but when natural light sources are limited there should be plenty of light sources.

Consider your environment. Are you in a large city, near a forest or by the ocean? Some homes will have more natural light than others and the light in your home will shift and vary through the day. Sit in all the rooms of your home throughout the day and you will notice where lighting needs to be supplemented. The right kind of lighting in the right space will add a glow and warmth to your surroundings.

10. “Accessories are where I like to make a statement. They’re the soul of a room.”

~ Austin Warner Accessories are a great way to complete your decor. They can pull all the pieces together to give your space a finished look.

Accessorizing is another way to add a personal touch to your space as they often tell a story of where you have been and where your interests lie. If you are too timid to go for large amounts of bold color, patterns or decor in your home, you can still create a colorful atmosphere with the accessories you choose.

Helen Houston Creamer is the Owner/President of Hues & Vues – Inspired Walls & Windows, a custom window design studio located at : 350 Falcon Ridge Parkway Building 100 Suite 102 702-346-0246 www.huesandvues.com

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

7. “I don’t think people have enough fun with decorating. It doesn’t always have to be so serious. Design isn’t like marriage, you don’t have to commit for life.”

~ Ross Cassidy

8. “Real comfort, visual and physical is vital in every room.”

~ Mark Hampton

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view on TRAVEL

My Rhine Getaway

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

By Celece Seegmiller

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My last travel column featured my river cruise to Burgundy and Provence and what I referred to as the vacation of a lifetime. Imagine my surprise when I returned from France in August and received an invitation to travel with Viking River Cruises on their Rhine Getaway sailing in November? As soon as I stopped pinching myself and asking if this incredible opportunity was for real, I had to ask myself a few questions. First, can I get away again in November? Second, who will I bring as my guest? As you might imagine, the answers came rather quickly. I needed to experience the Rhine for myself as it is one of our most popular river cruises. It was also the perfect opportunity to take my mother and spend some well-deserved quality time together. On November 15th, my mother and I packed our bags and headed for Amsterdam, the first leg of our very own “girlfriend getaway”.

Even though we only had two nights in Amsterdam, we made the most of it. We enjoyed many of the highlights including a canal cruise, a visit to the Van Gogh Museum, the sobering tour of the Anne Frank House, shopping, and snacking on more Stroopwafel than I care to admit. Stroopwafel is best described as waffle made from two thin layers of baked dough with a carmel-like syrup in the middle. In addition to the beauty and delicious food, Amsterdam is full of very friendly people. Everyone we encountered spoke excellent English and were very eager to help us with directions and recommendations.

After we boarded the lovely Viking Kvasir, we departed for Kinderjik, a charming little community in the Dutch

PHOTO COURTESY OF VIKING RIVER CRUISES countryside. After all, you can’t visit Holland and not see some windmills.

Kinderjik is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features 19 windmills. We had a fascinating tour where we learned about the functionality of windmills and realized they were more than just a beautiful photo opportunity.

Our next day was spent in Cologne, Germany where we enjoyed a tour of the city, shopping, and a delicious lunch consisting of Goulash, soft pretzels, and of course, Kolsch. Our tour of the city led us to the magnificent Gothic cathedral, another UNESCO site. The cathedral is the largest Gothic cathedral in northern Europe and began construction in 1248. It was not completed until 1880, so you might imagine how magnificent the church was with two soaring spires and picturesque stained glass windows.

Perhaps my favorite day was on Day

Three when we spent the day cruising along the Rhine. This is where every postcard and picture I ever saw came to life. The day was incredibly warm and sunny for November, so we put on our jackets and settled into comfortable lounge chairs on the top open deck. It was another “keep pinching myself” moment. Castles and fortresses were abundant as we made our way through one of the most beautiful stretches on the Rhine. The evening ended with a traditional German dinner and folkloric show in Rudesheim. It was a festive evening of singing, dancing, and enjoying our fellow guests. If you’ve ever been to an Oktoberfest celebration, then you might imagine what the evening was like (on a smaller scale of course).

Well, I am just half way through the cruise and I am almost at my word limit for this article. I will summarize by

view on TRAVEL saying that the next few days were spent between Germany and France. I had to be quick on my toes and switch from Guten Tag to Bonjour on a regular basis (hello in German and French). In Heidelberg, we toured the stunning 13th Century Heidelberg Castle, strolled through the quaint old town; and shopped for nutcrackers, beer steins, and coo coo clocks. Of course, I was thrilled to return to France with our stop in Strasbourg. Here we walked through the city center as we snacked on scrumptious croissants. We were there just in time for the ceremony at Strasbourg Cathedral where they were celebrating the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Strasbourg. It was a special treat to see the French flags flying and many veterans marching proudly. In the afternoon we spent the day touring the Alsace wine region. Our final day concluded with a pleasant surprise: Christmas markets in Colmar. I thought we were a week early for the markets, but we were informed that Colmar starts their market season one week ahead. What a delight, talk about starting the holiday season off right!

The Christmas markets bring you back in time as you stroll along browsing French handicrafts and sipping Mulled Wine. It was the perfect ending to our week on the Rhine.

The ten days I spent in Europe with my mother on the Rhine Getaway were priceless. We enjoyed spectacular scenery, historical sites, charming villages, delicious food, and best of all, time together.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CELECE SEEGMILLER

Celece Seegmiller is the local owner of The Travel Connection, located at 1386 E. 100 South in the Bell Tower Courtyard in St. George. For more information, please call 435-628-3636 or email her at celece@stgeorgetravel.com

www.viewonsouthernutah.com PHOTO COURTESY OF VIKING RIVER CRUISES

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AROUND TOWN >>

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WOMEN & PAY – THE UTAH LABOR FORCE

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The St. George Branch of the American Association of University Women hosted their monthly luncheon at the Marriott Courtyard.

The featured program for the event was entitled “Women & Pay – The Utah Labor Force” and was led by regional economist and author of “Hard at Work; Women in the Utah Labor Force”, Lecia Langston. “Utah has one of the largest male-to-female wage gaps in the nation. Understanding the root causes in gender pay inequality provide a necessary foundation for addressing the existing wage gap,” said Langston. Lecia presented current data and research to inform AAUW members about the facts and data that revolve around this issue and to dispel the myths surrounding male and female pay both in Utah and the nation.

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AUTHORPALOOZA The St. George Book Festival kicked off their weeklong celebration with the Authorpalooza at the St. George Barnes & Noble. The event was free to the public and featured 16 authors together to share their book writing and publication experiences with attendees. Authors who attended to share their stories and sign autographs included: Dawn McLain, David Smith, Russell Estlack, Betty Vickers, Caroll Shreeve, VS Grenier, Amy Jarecki, Traci McDonald, Jon Thompson, Tom Garrison, Roo Arledge, Betty Crofoot, Liesa Swejkoski, Nancy Phippen Browne, Ben D. Mahaffey, JS Jaeger, Bill Eads, L. Ralph Rohr, MD, V.J.O. Gardner and more! Authors and attendees all had a great time; the Authorpalooza was a wonderful way to start a very successful week focused on reading and literacy.

AROUND TOWN >> Literacy Charity Dinner The Literacy Charity Dinner was a night many will remember and treasure for years to come. The evening featured a wonderful dinner with authors at each table to discuss their experiences and answer questions the many aspiring authors had. Attendees had a rare and exclusive opportunity to meet and dine with twelve best-selling and award-winning authors from in and around Utah. Mayor Jon Pike and his talented writer wife Kristy both welcomed the attendees and spoke. The keynote speaker for the evening was author of more than 100 books and recognized by countless awards, Dean Hughes. The evening culminated with a silent auction and a Facebook challenge from Platinum Sponsor Brad Harr & Associates. Ticket sales, sponsorships and private donations made it possible for the organization to donate to two wonderful nonprofit community partners - The St. George Children’s Museum and Washington County School District Foundation!

On November 12 & 13, 2014 the Utah Nonprofits Association (UNA) and UServe Utah teamed up to provide nonprofit community leaders a certification course on Volunteer Management at DXATC. The training, sponsored by the Utah Commission on Service & Volunteerism (UServe Utah) and UNA was available at no cost UNA & UServe members, who, upon completion of the program and testing will not only achieve the prestigious certification, but will also be better equipped to manage vital aspects of nonprofit volunteer programs such as creating strategic plans and goals, assessment of volunteer needs/skills/retention/recognition and develop relevant, competency-based volunteer roles and opportunities that attract and retain high caliber volunteers to address critical social needs in their communities.

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VOLUNTEER MANAGEMENT CERTIFICATION TRAINING

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>>

view on EDUCATION

All About that Dual Immersion!

When you begin language study as an adolescent, in most cases, you earn academic credit, but when you begin language study as a child, you acquire a voice in the human conversation.� ~ John Rosenberg, Dean, College of the Humanities at BYU

by dr. erin e. o’brien, ph.d. dsu faculty senate president-elect

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

Our families have emerged from the winter holidays and it’s time to go back to regular life. For our children, that means it is time to head back to school. Some students are probably excited to see their friends, some might even be excited to get back to learning (we can only hope), but some are heading back to school to a new situation. In many dual-immersion classrooms throughout the state, students are heading back to school to learn in a new setting, one in which they are no longer allowed to speak English.

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The winter holiday break is the traditional switching point in these popular programs that teach a foreign language by immersing students in that language for half of their lessons at school. Washington County School District has ten elementary schools participating in these programs offering either Spanish or Mandarin Chinese. Students learn math and social studies, science, art, health, music, and/ or P.E. in their target language depending on their grade. Older children receive the conceptual aspects of math, social studies, and science in English and the practice or application of those lessons in the target language. Last fall, students were allowed to speak English in their foreign language classes even though their teacher would not. Now everyone must follow the same rules and speak the foreign language only.

Research supports early learning of foreign language. The average five-year old is not fully literate in their native language so a five-year old will not be literate in a new language introduced in elementary school. However, the ability to hear and pronounce sounds unique to a language is a skill that we lose starting in our first year of life, but

the process continues up through about age seven.

As a result, young children can hear and reproduce sounds much easier than adults. So the ideal time to learn a new language is before then.

If a child is not raised in a bilingual home, the next opportunity to learn a second language is in school.

Throughout the United States, schools generally start offering languages in 8th grade, well after the critical period for picking up a correct accent. In the dual-immersion programs in Washington County, students have the opportunity to start learning a second language in kindergarten or first grade, while they are still young enough to learn pronunciation.

Dual-immersion in Utah started in 2007 with the Utah Senate Bill 81, the Critical Languages Program and the school programs were then funded in 2008

by Utah Senate Bill 41, the International Initiatives Bill. This provided state funding for programs in

her dual immersion students because “[speaking Chinese] forces [the students] to think of what the meaning is [of] what they want to convey to me.”

Mandarin Chinese, French, and Spanish. Since then, the number of languages offered in Utah has expanded to include Portuguese and German. The bill funds two types of programs; one-way immersion programs where very few of the students speak the target language, such as with the Mandarin programs, and two-way immersion programs where there is a 1:1 ratio of students relatively fluent in the target language to those who do not speak it at all. This often can happen in the Spanish programs. While research suggests that the two-way model is more effective, the lack of native speakers in many languages makes two-way immersion programs impossible in many languages.

The language chosen by a particular school depends on input from all of the stakeholders and the availability of languages in nearby schools. For example, the first choice of parents surveyed by Arrowhead Elementary School was Spanish, but with Dixie Sun a short distance away, the administration selected the parents’ second choice, Mandarin. According to Ms. Marybeth Fuller, the Dual Immersion Coordinator for Washington County School District, additional programs and/or languages will be considered on an ongoing basis.

Utah universities and colleges have more to contribute to the process than just teachers. They are also working on developing concurrent enrollment classes so that dual immersion students can continue their language studies throughout high school to graduate with enough credits for a language minor. Dixie State is also developing classes for the parents of these children. Fluency in the target language is not necessary for parents, but many want to be involved in what their children are learning and have requested these classes.

As these programs continue to grow and develop in our region, it will put our children and grandchildren in a position of incredible opportunity on the global job market. It will be exciting to be part of it in our own corner of Utah.

Dr. Erin O’Brien 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.

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

Standardized testing of students in Salt Lake City schools (where these programs started) show that the dual-immersion students are testing on par with their peers or better in some cases. We do not have similar metrics for Washington County as of yet. The tests are given in third grade and the dual immersion programs include third grade for the first time this year. It will be interesting to see how our local students compare when the test results are published next year. In the meantime, our public school teachers and principals are thrilled with what they see in the classroom. Ms. Jing Sun, a first grade Mandarin teacher at Arrowhead Elementary sees an improvement in critical thinking skills in

The foreign language teachers will eventually come from the U.S., but they require a special certification to teach a target language in the dual immersion programs and the University of Utah is the only school in the state to offer the certificate, although Dixie State is working on developing a similar program. In the meantime, we bring over native speaking certified teachers from Spain and China through a variety of programs designed for this purpose. These teachers typically stay for a couple of years and then return home. As the students enter middle school, the number of classes they take in their target language decreases up through the ninth grade when they finish the program by taking the AP exam in their target language.

Therefore, the need for teachers is the greatest at the elementary school level, which makes it a promising career path for students interested in education, and who many already have some fluency in a target language because of time spent overseas.

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view on GOLF

Simple Tips for Lower Scores Rob Krieger - PGA Golf Professional As we begin the New Year, here are some easy ideas to help start your golf game off right in 2015. These are simple tips that should let you reduce all those swing thoughts down to just one or two, thus start hitting better shots. These ideas cover swing cues for Tee Shots, Fairway Shots, Chipping & Putting.

Tee Shots – Focus on your right elbow at the top of the swing. With the left arm straight, the right arm should be bent and at a 90 degree angle at the top of the swing. When the right arm folds too much at the top it leads to an over the top move and slicing. Keep it at 90 degrees and get more power and longer drives.

> Correct - 90 degrees bicep & forearm

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Fairway Shots – A big problem for players is hitting the ball thin or picking their head up. Concentrate in your downswing on getting your right knee going toward the ball or target before impact and touching your other knee in your finish. This enables the body to stay down on the ball and create crisper golf shots off the turf.

Chipping – Flipping the wrists as you strike a chip is the #1 reason amateurs struggle with this short stroke. Put 95% of your weight on your front foot, keep head behind ball and brush the grass like a putter without bending your wrists through impact. Just like putting the ball where your club head stays below your knees in the finish. The loft will get the ball up over the higher grass and on the green, that is what loft is supposed to do.

>

>

>

Incorrect – Collapsed right arm – no width

Putting – Many players know someone who struggles with short putts. Help them by not being so focused on the ball at address and before hitting the ball by have them look at the target and stroke their putts looking at the target. If they were missing them before, they can’t do much worse. They will not be ball bound but target bound, just like playing darts and looking at the bullseye. Give these ideas a try and let me know if they work for you.

Good Luck and as always…Fairways & Greens! ~Rob

Rob Krieger is the owner of the Red Rock Golf Center, a new high tech golf training facility located at the beautiful Green Valley Resort & Spa – 1871 W. Canyon View Dr., St. George, UT. Available for beginner clinics and private lessons. Simulator times and lessons can be booked by calling 435-986-5096, emailing rob@sgugolf.com or visit www.stgeorgegolflessons.com.

4th Annual

Mesquite Hot Air Balloon Festival The 4th annual Mesquite Hot Air Balloon Festival will take place January 24 & 25, 2015 at the CasaBlanca Resort & Casino. The festival will bring in 40 of the most colorful balloons in the region to fly over the Virgin Valley. This event attracts around 5000 spectators each day to watch these magical balloons take flight. Balloons will launch each morning at sunrise (weather permitting) from the Oasis Resort Special Events Parking Lot located across the street from the CasaBlanca Resort.

The Balloon Festival has quickly put Mesquite on the map as one of the great Hot Air Balloon Festivals in the West. This event could not take place without the Balloon Meister Gayle McCoy and numerous balloon pilots from all over the nation.

Thank you also to the many sponsors and the wonderful volunteers that make this a weekend to remember in Mesquite.

Photos Courtesy Rob Krieger

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

Once the balloons launch on Saturday of the festival, there are a multitude of events for the general public to take advantage of. There will be “Squawk! The Bird Show” in the CasaBlanca Showroom with two shows, 9:30am-10:00am and second show 11:00am-11:30am. Both bird shows are free to the public. From 4:00pm-6:00pm there will be a complimentary champagne tasting in the CasaBlanca Skydome Lounge. One of the main highlights of the Mesquite Hot Air Balloon Festival is the night glow from 6:00pm-7:00pm located in the South parking lot of the CasaBlanca Resort.

See these beautiful balloons light up the Mesquite sky with great music, a combination that is hard to beat. Rounding out an action packed Saturday will be a fantastic tribute band, Zeppelin USA; celebrating the music of Led Zeppelin, Zeppelin USA (ZUSA, for short) is a four piece, non-costumed band that delivers the best of the Led Zeppelin studio sound and live concert performances. The fans and critics seem to agree….ZUSA is currently the best Zep tribute in the CasaBlanca Showroom. Tickets are available at www.casablancaresort.com

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MOUNTAIN WEST BASEBALL ACADEMY’S SPRING TRAINING

by Kent Norris

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

President’s Weekend,February 13-16, 2015 will again bring over 700 baseball families and 100 instructors to Mesquite, Nevada. It will be the start of the 25th annual Mountain West Baseball Academy’s Spring Training Event. Mountain West Baseball Academy started the Spring Training event in Mesquite in 1990 because Mesquite had good facilities, warm weather, and great people to work with.

The City has greeted us with open arms ever since.

Young players between age 7 and 18 come to the event in Mesquite from as many as ten states including Utah, Nevada, Arizona, Colorado, Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, California, Washington, and Oregon. The purpose of the event is to provide an opportunity for the players to hone their skills in preparation for the upcoming spring and summer baseball seasons. They will receive instruction from professional scouts, college coaches, high school coaches, and strength and speed trainers. The players receive training in speed, power, agility, reaction, and quickness as well as the many baseball skills involved in the offense and defense aspects of the game.

Spring Training is one of only a few events nationally that bring in USA Baseball, The Major League Scouting Bureau, professional scouts, and college coaches to not only instruct but to identify future players. The event participants arrive Friday evening to hear a guest speaker and prepare themselves for the next three days.

The training sessions will begin Saturday morning and will go all day Saturday, all day Sunday, and half day Monday. The players are separated by age and will be scheduled for instruction at Virgin Valley High School, Pioneer Park, Hunter Park, and Old Mill Fields.

The schedules will be posted at each of the parks and Pioneer Park will be our home base.

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For further information, please contact www.mountainwestbaseball.com or call (801)561-1700

By Brian Hurlburt

Off-Road, Up Close and Personal

The 3rd Annual Mesquite Off-Road Weekend returns February 20-22, 2015 to the Eureka Casino Resort and will feature big name professional racers, amateur and mini racing, a freestyle exhibition show, the largest vendor area yet and a few other surprises.

The weekend will be packed with activities for the whole family with lower ticket prices. One day tickets start at only $7 for youth and $12 for adults with all-inclusive weekend VIP passes available for only $30 (down substantially from the first two years).

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

“To me, Mesquite Off-Road Weekend is a celebration of racing and outdoor activities, and much more than that, it’s an opportunity for locals and visitors to watch some of the best racers in the world,” says Andre Carrier, COO of Eureka Casino. “This has always been a community event and for Mesquite Off-Road Weekend 2015 we are showing our appreciation to the fans by offering chances for everyone to really become a part of the action. We have lowered ticket prices as a thank you and the VIP meet and greets will be open to more fans. This is truly a unique, one-of-a-kind event that only happens in Mesquite.”

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www.viewonsouthernutah.com

According to organizers, the weekend festival will include the same craziness and mayhem of years past, but will be bringing fans and competitors even closer to the action through several interactive events including VIP meet and greets, clinics and the chance for everyday riders to attempt freestyle motocross tricks in a safe environment.

Two new additions this year are that Polaris World will be hosting breakfast and a trail ride, and Mesquite Motocross will be having a huge event at their track.

For complete information, schedule and tickets, visit www.MesquiteOffRoad.com.

Photos courtesy of The View Finders Group

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

The spirit of Mesquite Off-Road Weekend 2015 is inclusion. The goal of the organizers is to make the event one of the most interactive off-road festivals in the world where racing aficionados not only come out to watch but end up participating.

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TAKING CARE OF FROST DAMAGED YARDS

What to do after a hard freeze‌.

BY PAUL NOE Star Nursery; CERTIFIED HORTICULTURE ADVISOR Faced with a yard full of frost damaged plants, often the first impulse of the gardener or homeowner is to start pruning, removing and replacing their plants. Unfortunately, even in the aftermath of a light freeze, this is not the best course of action.

Any plant that is still alive will attempt to recover from freeze damage. Be assured that many plants that look completely dead will begin to recover when the weather warms up.

Many plants will have lost all their woody parts, but will begin to re-grow from root or stem tissue. This is a normal and typical recovery process for the plant. However, the temporary appearance of the landscape may not be acceptable to some gardeners. This means that each site will have to be evaluated. Do you let the plants recover in their own way and time, or replace them with already vigorously growing (and pleasingly shaped) specimens? This decision will be particularly difficult with certain types of plants.

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The extent of damage may not be apparent until re-growth starts in warm weather. While initial damage estimates can be made by observing foliage, tissue rigidity or stem flexibility, many plants are still in the process of realizing damage inflicted by the freeze. In some cases, root systems or circulatory damage is not yet apparent. Some of the plants so damaged may show no outward signs until heat or other stress causes the plant to collapse. What this means to you is that pruning should be delayed in all cases where frost damage is apparent (including discoloration). When growth resumes in the spring, you will easily see which stems or branches are not recovering fully. By the beginning

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of March, many plants, like Mock Orange, Photinia, Privet and Texas Sage will leaf out and show generally good recovery. Species like Oleander and African Sumac probably won’t show any signs of re-growth until April or May. Replacement and/or pruning decisions might need to be delayed until May, unless the decision to replace these plants with other species has already been made.

Palms and other monocot plants such as yuccas irises and some grasses are particularly prone to damage through pruning, because their method of re-sprouting is so different from other plants. The palms are particularly vulnerable because they have only one growing point, called the heartbud. If this heartbud is damaged, palms are incapable of manufacturing a new one. Any additional stress on the heartbud, or the removal of the insulating thatch (dead leaves) could cause the palm to die. Since we know that nothing active can be done to help the palm, a course of nonintervention is strongly suggested. Generally, no pruning should be done on any palms until at least five strong new leaves are visible.

Olives damaged by a freeze can be pruned beginning in March. Pruning should consist mainly of removing twiggy secondary growth, while allowing scaffold branches to remain. Olives pruned in this manner should show a generally strong recovery by mid-summer. Don’t spray fruit-inhibiting chemicals on trees noticeably damaged by a freeze. Most of these chemicals also have growth-inhibiting properties, which can keep the tree from re-sprouting new leaves and shoots.

Fruit is not expected on the majority of trees since most flower buds were destroyed by the freeze. Some trees will be undamaged by the freeze. These can be sprayed normally.

Plants damaged by freezing should not be fertilized until active growth resumes in the spring. The loss of growing

tissue and leaves experienced by most freeze or frost damaged plants inhibits their ability to metabolize and use fertilizers. In some cases, depending on soil chemistry and plant tolerances, more damage could result from improper and over-zealous fertilization. This is again critical for palms, which should not be fertilized until hot weather in June or July, and again in August or early September.

When fertilizing does take place, caution should be used, taking into account the compromised state of many plants.

Probably the most effective fertilizers will be those which are balanced and which have a low analysis, such as 7-7-7.

To help soil microorganisms re-establish, homemade compost, commercially available inoculants or manufactured fertilizers with microorganisms present will be helpful. Top dressings with organic material will not only improve the soil, but also reduce stress on roots due to soil superheating. IN NO CASE SHOULD STRONG DOSAGES OF HIGH NITROGEN BE USED ON LANDSCAPE PLANTS following a severe freeze. Even plants with no apparent damage can be disturbed by rapid growth caused by excessive nitrogen.

Proper watering of damaged plants is vital. While moist soil is necessary in almost all cases to avoid further damage from drying winds, plants which have had foliar damage or root damage have a compromised ability to make use of soil moisture. This means that the watering regime must be carefully watched, and the soil watered only when it begins to dry significantly. Doing otherwise will result in root rot and further losses. The reduced soil evaporation rate in cool weather combined with reduced demand from damaged plants indicates watering no more than once a week. Lawns should do quite well in cold weather with

approximately 10 minutes once a week, or even less. Even with these guidelines, you should watch and adjust watering schedules according to prevailing conditions. Over watering at this time would be devastating to plants that have been significantly damaged by a severe freeze.

Conservatism is called for in all gardening and landscaping activities. Too much water, fertilizer or pruning could be very detrimental and could cause much more loss than might be experienced otherwise Remember, replacing in haste will waste plants and money!

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LIGHTNING FLIGHT

The Novel by Bill Eads – America’s War on Terrorism is Forever Changed.

By donna eads Local author and retired aviator, Bill Eads, collides fact and fiction to produce a gripping new book that could be reality in the not too distant future. This thought provoking novel begins with a launch of two F-35 Lightning II strike fighters from the Navy’s newest aircraft carrier stationed in the Persian Gulf. Their covert mission, authorized by the President, is to conduct a non-conventional strike on an underground terrorist compound located in the disputed area along the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan. The unanticipated result of this operation causes a chain reaction that threatens to impeach the President and brings the major military powers to the brink of World War III.

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Congressman Blake Ettington is sent to the Middle East to investigate and finds himself involved in an ongoing battle between American forces and international terrorism. He and his team, consisting of JAG Officer Debbi Schelling, CIA operative T.J. Butt, and Marine pilot Gordy Whitworth, enter the clandestine world of espionage and combat taking place in the primitive, war weary country of Afghanistan. The investigation reveals an intricate plot to assassinate high level leaders in America including the President. Domestic terrorists and Mexican drug

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cartels are involved in a master plan to bring the United States of America to her knees!

“The narrative will ultimately capture each reader’s bold desire for resolution,” explains Bill. “This novel is relevant and surprisingly plausible for the not too distant future. Nobody can deny that geo-political and religious conflict is higher now than it has been since the end of the cold war.”

Since publication in the fall of 2014, the book has garnered a string of rave reviews. Cleve Luce, noted author and editor, comments: “Bill Eads has done it again! This is one of the most exciting and riveting novels I have ever read. From page one, the action moves unexpectedly from one dire situation to the next, and to the next! A definite Airlines. The author has over 20,000 hours of flight page turner. Breathtaking fiction.” time at the controls of aircraft ranging from single-engine strike fighters to the Boeing 747 Jack Sternlieb, world renowned heart surgeon, Jumbo Jet. His first book, When Flying Was Fun! was adds, “The plot is fantastic and keeps the reader’s published in 2007 and is a compilation of four decades interest until reaching the unexpected ending. I’m of aviation anecdotes. looking forward to Bill’s next book and hope he includes some medical suspense in the plot.”

Bill and his wife, Donna, along with their boxer ‘Prancer’, have resided in Bill Eads served as a Naval Aviator for nine years and flew numerous combat missions over North Vietnam. He retired as a Captain with United

Mesquite since December 2010. Besides writing, they both enjoy tennis, a little golf, hiking, and the beautiful views surrounding Mesquite. For more information, visit the author’s official website: www.billeadsbooks.com

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Chocolate Zucchini Cake A Healthy Valentine Treat!

By Jennifer Hammond Health & Wellness Coach

When I made the decision to start eating a healthier diet 2 ½ years ago I never thought that the words chocolate and healthy would ever be in the same sentence. People talk about the benefits of chocolate, but when they start adding processed sugar to it, the health benefits go out the window. At the beginning of my journey into healthier life a friend referred me to the Elana’s Pantry website, elanaspantry.com. Elana Amsterdam has been both gluten and dairy free for several years and offers many amazing recipes. I made her Chocolate Zucchini Bread to fill a craving and soon found myself adjusting the recipe to be more cake-like. I now use my adjusted recipe to make cupcakes, cake-pops, doughnuts and even a delicious pumpkin-cream filled cake-roll! I found I could have my cake and eat it too!

This has now become one of my go to recipes for special occasions. This can easily be made a day ahead and refrigerated so why not try it out for someone you love this Valentines Day?

Chocolate Zucchini Cake ~ Makes 1 cake 2 1/2 cups blanched almond flour 1/2 cup cacao powder 1/2 teaspoon celtic sea salt 1 teaspoon baking soda 5 eggs 4 tablespoons coconut oil 1/2 cup honey 1/2 teaspoon powdered stevia 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 1/2 cup uncooked, grated zucchini 1 cup Enjoy Life Chocolate Chunks (These are a pretty healthy version of chocolate chips) • Set oven to 350° • Dust 9” pan with almond flour and set aside for later.

• In a food processor combine almond flour and cacao powder • Add salt and baking soda. Pulse until combined.

• Pulse in additional ingredients: eggs, melted coconut oil, honey, stevia, vanilla, then zucchini • Transfer batter to dusted pan • Sprinkle chocolate chunks over the batter and push into unbaked cake.

• Transfer to oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. (Toothpick inserted should come out clean.)

• Cool for 2 hours then top with Ganache (See recipe below) • Serve and enjoy!

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Chocolate Ganache ~ Makes 2/3 cup

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1/2 cup coconut milk 5 ounces chocolate chunks Add a few drops additional flavoring if desired (mint, raspberry, chocolate, orange) •Combine coconut milk and chocolate in a small saucepan • Heat over very low heat • Stir constantly until combined and melted • Remove from heat • Add additional flavoring if desired. Mix thoroughly.

• Drizzle over cake, ice cream or brownies.

Be creative with your cakes! You can add mint or any other flavoring to the ganache after you have removed it from the heat. One of my personal favorites is chocolate raspberry topped with a fresh raspberry for extra color and flavor. That way not only are you getting a small serving of zucchini, but you are also getting fruit. I say that is a win!

Business Card DIRECTORY

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Ropes Courses have become increasingly popular in the last several years. In case you’re not quite sure what a Ropes Course is, Wikipedia provides this definition: *A ropes course is a challenging outdoor personal development and team building activity which usually consists of high and/or low elements. Low elements take place on the ground or only a few feet above the ground. High elements are usually constructed in trees or made of utility poles and require a belay for safety.

Most Ropes Courses start with a series of ground activities designed to ‘warm people up’ and get them used to working together. They will then progress onto lower elements that will be challenging, but are not usually ‘scary’ or too challenging. Next up will be the high elements that are designed to allow an individual to challenge themselves and work on overcoming fears or phobias they may have, especially a fear of heights.

Many elements of a Ropes Course are designed to not just challenge an individual’s ability, but to encourage them to work together as a team to complete the activity. In fact, many elements can only be completed by 2 or more people. When participants work together as a team to overcome challenges that seem impossible, it gives everyone in the group a tremendous boost of confidence, and a greater awareness of the importance of recognizing each individual’s talents and efforts.

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Participants will be challenged, but not intimidated, to complete the course using physical and mental stamina, all the while relying on their own and their fellow participants encouragement and support.

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“Challenge by Choice” is an important policy for any Ropes Course. This means that guides strive to encourage every participant to attempt and complete every challenge, while also recognizing that not every person is capable of, or willing to, engage in all aspects of an event, and it is important for all participants and group members to accept limitations set by individual participants. An important element of teamwork is overcoming obstacles, and thinking outside the box, and if any member of the team declines participation in an activity, it is up to the team to devise a strategy to overcome this, and to encourage and praise the participant for the efforts they expended.

Ropes Course Activities are enjoyed by many diverse groups of people, including Scouts, Corporate Groups, Church Groups, Youth Groups, Family Reunions, or any group of people who would like to participate in an activity that is good for pretty much everyone. Kids as young as 5 or 6, and not so young kids up to age 70 and beyond, have enjoyed the activities involved in a Ropes Course.

There is a Ropes Course located in Overton, NV, just 45 miles from Mesquite. This course includes both low and high elements, AND a dual zipline as the ‘reward’ for completing the course. Reservations are required, and you can reserve online at www.awesomeadventures.com/product/las-vegas-ropes-course or by phone at 702-257-7338. The Ropes Course operates 7 days a week, weather permitting.

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GOT

?

E R U T L CU Music

Theatre

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Visual Arts

Dance

Support DSU Cultural Arts Student Performances Are Open To The Community. Ticket Prices Range from Free - $12

52 DIXIE STATE UNIVERSITY

FOR TICKETS & SCHEDULE

435.652.7800

www.dixieculturalarts.com • www.dsutix.com