View on Southern Utah

September/October 2014 Complimentary Issue

Southern Utah View On

Magazine

A Labor of Love – Transforming a Landmark Kalamity Dance Group Dancing For Your Calamity

Footprints in the Sand

recreation • entertainment • shopping • business • dining • news & views

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

EMMA DEGERSTEDT as Ariel

KARI YANCY as Dorothy

JAMES ROYCE EDWARDS as Joseph

NOW – OCT 18 NOW – OCT 17

TUACAHN.ORG | (800) 746-9882

NOW – OCT 16

EDITOR’S LETTER

Southern Utah View On

Magazine

September 1 – October 31, 2014 Volume 1 – Issue 5

Dear Readers, As I looked through this issue I noticed an abundance of articles regarding the wonderful volunteers and organizations that have been so generous with their time and giving spirit. It is evident that this is what personifies the soul of Southern Utah. In our short time of publishing our magazine we have met and interviewed so many wonderful individuals.

We here at View on Southern Utah would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to those who continue to give to others.

We have spotlighted a few unique businesses that we believe also bring so much to the residents and visitors. We encourage you to visit these featured businesses.

Please as always stop in and thank our advertisers for their support of this publication.

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

Please continue to send your story ideas to

2

info@ViewOnSouthernUtah.com Visit our website at www.ViewOnSouthernUtah.com.

Like us on Facebook for current events not included in this issue.

Sincerely, Kathy Lee Editor-in-Chief

Editor in Chief Kathy Lee Managing Editor Melissa Eligul Copy Editor Cindy Biskup Creative Director & Magazine Design Steven Ruesch Studio SE7EN, LLC Contributing Writers Ben Gordon Charlene Paul Christina Schultz Dawn McLain Joseph E. Smith Justin Stum Karen Monson Ken Cook Laurel Beesley Laurie Nelson-Barker Melissa Eligul Nikk Zorbas Rob Krieger Susi Lafaele Web Design Trevor Didriksen The PC Guy Advertising Sales Kathy Lee Melissa Eligul Advertising Email ads@ViewOnSouthernUtah.com Support Staff Bert Kubica Distribution Ron Wilson Published by View On Mesquite Magazine, Inc. 742 W. Pioneer Blvd, Suite D Mesquite, NV 89027 Office (702) 346-8439 Fax (702) 346-4955 General Inquiries 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

Cover Photo submitted by Savage Point B&B, Courtesy of Kane County Office of Tourism

14

Features

16

28 36

14 A Labor of Love - Transforming a Landmark 28 Footprints in the Sand 16 Kalamity Dance Group, Dancing for Your Calamity

In this issue 2 Editor’s Letter 4 View from the Chamber

Shining a light on the Dixie Sunshiners

5 Recipes to Die For – White Chocolate Banana Bread Pudding 6 View on Healthy Lifestyles A Simple Plan for Maintaining Health

8 9 10 12

Remember the Rubik Cube Why I Love Southern Utah Sharing the Art of Storytelling View on Business

ARTe Gallery and Framing

18 View on Charity

Downtown Farmers Market at Ancestor Square

21

24

Resurgence of Southern Utah’s Inspiring Night Skies Back To School, Staying Connected With Your Teen

Longer Tee Shots & Crisper Fairway Shots

32 View on Travel

Where in the World do You Want to Play Golf?

34 36 38 40 41

Who’s Out and About Tuachan and Much More Muslim Journeys Let It Go Spotlight on Volunteerism

Spotlighting Brad Hafen

43 Why I Love Southern Utah 44 Mesquite’s Best of Fest Film Festival 46 Why I Love Southern Utah

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

26 Visit, Volunteer Enjoy the Nation’s Most Special Animal Sanctuary 30 View on Golf

3

view from the CHAMBER

Shining a Light on the Dixie Sunshiners

By Susi Lafaele, Director of Events With summer now over, the very best of Southern Utah becomes exposed.

Thousands of visitors flock to our beautiful area to participate in the DocUtah International Film Festival, Dixie Roundup Rodeo, St. George Marathon and the Huntsman World Senior Games. It doesn’t take outsiders long to discover that what we have here is something special. Some call it the “Dixie Spirit.” Some define it as a desire to serve, to make a difference, to build not only a community but a better quality of life, to leave a legacy for the younger generations. Every person and business in our community showcases the “Dixie Spirit” in their own way. At the St. George Chamber of Commerce, our spirit comes out in the community in the form of the Dixie Sunshiners.

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

The Dixie Sunshiners is a group of St. George area residents who volunteer their time and energy to serve as goodwill ambassadors to the Southern Utah business community under the direction of the Chamber of Commerce.

4

The objective of these men and women is to promote all of Southern Utah as the best place to work, locate your business, live with your family and spend your vacation time. The group of nearly 40 business professionals attend on average, 250 events a year.

These events include business ribbon cuttings, open houses, grand openings, meetings and luncheons. They also

important events like the Senior Games, Washington County Economic Summit, Spooky Town Fair and others.

assist with the Chamber’s weekly Wednesday luncheons. With twenty or so Sunshiners who participate in most of the events they dedicate over 5,000 hours of community service each year. The Dixie Sunshiners not only welcome a business with open arms, they also perform a valuable service as ambassadors to our community during

The Dixie Sunshiners can be found at these events sporting a dapper navy blue blazer when the “sun spends its winters,” or a sunny yellow shirt keeping them cool at ground breakings, riding the Sunshiner train during parades, or giving thanks to those who keep America truckin’. As goodwill ambassadors, the Dixie Sunshiners are truly the unofficial host for all visitors to the area.

The next time you are at a community event and see a Dixie Sunshiner, please introduce yourself and thank them for being the Sunshiner ambassadors of the St. George Chamber.

If you would like to become a Dixie Sunshiner, please contact the Chamber at (435) 628-1650 or visit us in person at 97 East St George Blvd.

White Chocolate Banana Bread Pudding

BANANA BREAD 3 to 4 very ripe bananas 1 1/4 cups sugar 1/3 pound (1 1/3 sticks) butter, melted and slightly cooled 2 large eggs, at room temperature 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda 8- to 9-inch loaf pan.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease an tted with a paddle Place the bananas and sugar in the bowl of a mixer fi 2 to 3 minutes. or whisk attachment and whip them very well, about

NA BREAD PUDDING

2 cups milk 1 cup heavy cream 3 large eggs 2 large egg yolks 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoon

s sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon vanilla extrac

t

12 ounces white chocolat

e, melted

1 loaf Banana Bread, cu

bed in about 1� cubes

Preheat the oven to 325 deg

rees. Lightly grease an 8-in ch square

well and scraping Add the butter, eggs, and vanilla one at a time, beating and baking soda; down the sides after each addition. Add the flour, salt if using. mix to combine and scrape down the sides. Add nuts,

cake pan.

Place the milk and 1/2 cup of the cream in a saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Be careful not to let it boil over. Place the eggs, egg yolks, 1/2 cup of the sugar, salt, and vanilla in a bow the milk mixture, whiskin g all the while. Add the mel l and gradually add ted chocolate and mix until it is fully incorporated .

Bake until brown Place in the prepared pan and transfer to the oven. for 10 to 15 cool to aside Set hour.

1 about center, the in rm and fi cool. to rack a on invert then and minutes

Place the bread cubes in the prepared pan and pou r the custard over it, pressing down to dunk them . Let rest at least 15 min utes and up to an hour for the bread to absorb the custard.

The Painted Pony Restaurant Business Hours: 2 W. St. George Blvd. #22 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK St. George, Utah 84770 Lunch: Monday-Saturday 11:30am-4pm www.painted-pony.com Dinner: 4pm Daily

Pour the remaining 1/2 cup cream over the top and spri nkle with the remaining 2 tablespoons sugar and transfer to the oven. Bake until the pudding is firm and a knif e inserted comes out clea n, about 1 hour.

Ser ve warm or at room tem perature with caramel sau ce, a dollop of sweetened whipped crea m or ice cream, and slice d bananas.

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

1/2 cup toasted walnuts (optional)

WHITE CHOCOLATE BANA

5

view on HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

A Simple Plan

for Maintaining Health

By Nikk Zorbas “No man has the right to be an amateur in the matter of physical training. It is a shame for a man to grow old without seeing the beauty and strength of which his body is capable.” ~ Socrates There’s no doubt that keeping fit has its benefits. By taking care of your body, you will live a longer, more productive life. You’ll have more energy, improved mental health and increased self-confidence. Your body will be less susceptible to disease, which will reduce your health care costs. You will look and feel better, and will even enjoy a better sex life. Perhaps most importantly, you will be there for the people who love you and need you— your partner, children, grandchildren, and aging parents.

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

That said, today’s sedentary lifestyle makes it harder than ever to keep fit. The fact is, we’re spending more time on our butts than ever before. Whether in front of the computer, reading, watching television, playing games, or at work... there’s a whole lot of sitting going on.

And that is not good news.

6

Consider a study conducted by the American Cancer Society. Researchers tracked 123,000 healthy women and men over a 13-year period and recorded their activity levels and death rates. The results were astounding, especially for women. It was found that men who spent more than 6 hours a day sitting were 18% more likely to die than those who sat fewer than three hours per day.

However, women who reported sitting more than six hours a day were found to be 40% more likely to die during the time period studied than women who spent less than three hours sitting.

As a result, it’s never been more important to start and maintain a fitness regimen. The human body is the most intricate mechanism on earth, even more so than the space shuttle. Yet despite its complexity, maintaining your body’s health is a relatively simple process. Regardless of what we’ve been taught, keeping ourselves healthy and fit doesn’t have to be a complicated or time consuming process. In fact, it’s much more difficult, time consuming, and costly to live with a body that’s not functioning properly.

minute. Look into the many phone apps that allow you to gage your steps.

There’s absolutely no excuse for not maintaining some type of fitness program. Fitness is available to anyone regardless of budget or age, because it’s FREE. Being a former natural bodybuilding champion, I always look for ways to make my quest for fitness effective, simple and of course, fun.

Here are some of my tips and strategies to get you started. These will work whether you have a tight schedule, travel a lot, would like to exercise at home and save time and money, or if you are just getting started with a fitness plan.

Give yoga a try. Despite its amazing benefits for your mind, body and soul; only 5% of Americans practice yoga.

Yoga can be performed just about anywhere, and at your own pace. Invest in an instructional DVD or check out some free yoga videos on YouTube.

Take an introductory class through a community center, gym, or yoga studio.

Walk. Walking can have amazing benefits and can be done just about anywhere. I do a 20-minute walk on the treadmill first thing in the morning, and I can tell it improves my mood and clarity throughout the day. Integrate as much walking as possible into your daily routine. Leave your car at home when doing errands, or choose a parking spot at the far end of the lot. Walk with a brisk pace, similar to if you were running late to a meeting. A walking pace of about three to four miles per hour corresponds to 120 to 135 steps per

Work your midsection. Here’s a little trick you can do while standing or sitting; blow out all the air from your body while simultaneously sucking in your tummy. Hold and tighten your tummy for about three seconds before breathing back in, repeat. This exercise can have as much an effect as doing sit-ups, and you can do it anytime, anywhere, and as often as you would like, and no one will ever know!

view on HEALTHY LIFESTYLE Trade a hamburger for grilled chicken.

Remember, while exercising is a big step, its effect will be minimized if you don’t eat healthy. You must combine exercise and proper nutrition for effective results.

Turn your chores into a workout.

Pump up your energy and burn lots of calories as you’re vacuuming, doing laundry, changing linens, dusting, and washing floors. Make it fun by adding some background music. Be creative and wash your car to the song “Car Wash.”

Eat consciously and practice “trading.” By that I mean, trade unhealthy food for better choices.

For example, if you usually eat fries, opt for sweet potatoes. Trade soda for water or unsweetened iced tea.

I understand that every day we’re bombarded with thousands of “healthy” products from companies with clever, and perhaps deceiving, marketing tactics. As a result, we’re left overwhelmed and confused instead of educated. We see infomercials that promise weight loss with magic pills and crazy workouts, and advertisements for plastic surgeons who claim they can simply suck the fat out of us. All entice us with a “quick fix” that will almost never be beneficial in the long-term.

Health and fitness has become a multibillion dollar industry in America, yet the United States is the most obese country in the world. So where’s the disconnect? What are we doing wrong?

The problem can be summed up in one word: inconsistency. Consistency can be achieved by integrating fitness into your life every chance you get. Think of fitness in the same way you would invest in your retirement account. Every time you exercise or enjoy a healthy meal, you’re making another deposit.

So be sure to make those deposits consistently so your body will serve you well and last for all your years!

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.

Spencer Wells, MD • Court Empey, MD

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

Melissa Hinton, DNP • Mark Udy, PA-C • Cortney Bernardo, PA-C

7

REMEMBER THE RUBIK CUBE!

by Laurie neLson-barKer, m.ed, CPt Sometimes I feel that life is like a Rubik cube! My siblings and I dealt with the cube by removing the colored stickers on the little squares and replacing them on different squares so that it looked like we had solved the puzzle. I am sure our parents thought they were raising geniuses, when in reality, we were sneaky and deceptive.

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

Adopting a healthy lifestyle is much the same. You can manipulate the results and deceive yourself and others into thinking that you have discovered an easy way to health and fitness but in reality, it takes effort and some intense puzzle solving. Achieving true fitness requires a combination of lifestyle changes. It’s more than just replacing some leisure time with an occasional workout or substituting carrots for potato chips. Don’t get me wrong, those changes will help, but don’t qualify as a lifestyle change. Significant change requires some soul searching and a bit of angst.

8

Determine how to work activity into your life. It is possible to get a great workout in twenty minutes. If you are pressed for time, add a brief, high intensity workout. Add some short bursts of cardio training (running, stepping, jumping jacks, etc) in the middle of the workout and then slow it down enough to bring your heart rate down again. You will jumpstart your metabolism and stay alert. If you prefer spending time in the gym and are a spandex fan, then by all means go for it!

Next, decide what foods you can’t live without. If your food of choice is going to induce a massive coronary, then you may want to rethink it. It’s OK to indulge on occasion but only reward yourself if

you really deserve it. Remember the Rubik cube and don’t deceive yourself.

Pick an eating lifestyle that you can live with. If you need help, consult a professional. Eat 7-10 servings of fruits and veggies each day. A serving is about 1/4 cup. A green smoothie is an easy way to start the day and get several servings at once. Potato chips and French fries don’t count. Unfortunately for me, neither do Snap Pea Crisps.

Drink enough water. I love the slogan, “hydrate or die.” It’s simple and to the point. Strive for 1-2 liters of water per day. A liter is about the size of a plastic soda bottle but that doesn’t mean you can substitute with soda. It is very difficult to drink too much water in our hot, dry desert climate but if you start to see mermaids, you may want to cut back a bit!

Get enough sleep. Seven or eight hours will actually aid in fat loss. Unplug electronics and relax before bedtime.

Stress not only plays havoc with your sleep but can also contribute to belly fat. Try calcium/magnesium, melatonin or a sleep app. Your body performs maintenance tasks while you sleep. If it is busy digesting and processing food, it cannot perform properly. If you dream of being chased by a giant salami, cut back on food before bedtime. At the very least, change your food choices!

Take a multi-vitamin, or specific recommended supplements. Hormones also play an important part in overall well being. From my perspective, this is too complicated for most of us to figure out ourselves (remember the Rubik cube).

It may be best to consult a professional that can actually solve the puzzle.

Take a day off. There is such a thing as overtraining and it can be just as detrimental as under training.

Overtraining can have some very undesirable consequences such as a persistent plateau or decline in performance, disturbance in mood and sleep, muscle soreness and increased resting heart rate. I never thought that I would have to actually tell clients to cut back on exercise but, surprisingly, it happens more than I anticipated.

Keep a journal. I confess I am not good at this. I can add a few notes to an app or indicate what I ate with some recall but not much else. However, the whole purpose is to increase self- awareness, so for the sake of science, go for it. Just make sure you don’t end up on the front page of the newspaper for the wrong reasons. Sometimes there is such a thing as too much information!

It takes a village to help you achieve your health goals. For most, that village consists of family, friends and health care professionals. It also doesn’t hurt to do some research on your own to decide what works for you. Just make sure your information comes from a credible source. Uncle Lester may be a great guy, but if his idea of jump starting your metabolism involves electric wires, run!

Also, seek a second opinion. I am just saying...

Laurie nelson-barker is a partner of boomers rule, Personal training and Lifestyle fitness Coaching. you can contact her at 435 632-0199 or email at boomersrule.net. for further information visit www.boomersrule.net.

Why I Love Southern Utah We love living in Southern Utah and our favorite place is Cedar Mountain with the beautiful bright blue sky during the day and star studded sky at night.

We enjoy staying in our cabin where we can watch the deer, squirrels, raccoons, hummingbirds and sometimes even a bear from our front porch.

We are so lucky to have such a wonderful place where we can fish, ride fourwheelers, hike or just enjoy the peace and quiet.

– Vernal & Rosalee Ruesch I moved to St. George in 2001 with my husband to start an auto glass shop. I had been in advertising for years and thought it was time for a change. I never dreamed that it would get so hot here. I absolutely love the people. They treat me so well. I missed my friends in Salt Lake City but knew this would be my new home. After moving into our home I visited the Chamber of Commerce. There I met Roe Wilkinson and Lorri Puchlik. They became my new best friends. I joined the St. George Chamber and immediately got involved in this community. I joined the member retention committee and met a lot of new people. The Chamber was the best thing I did for my business. From the Chamber I got involved in volunteering with the St. George Marathon, Huntsman World Senior Games and Iron Man, just to mention a few.

The question is, Why do I love Southern Utah? Why not? The people here are incredible, very friendly and down to earth. The beauty of this land is second to none. In St. George we have museums, golf, Tuacahn, St. George Musical Theater, Dixie State University, and National Parks including Zion, Bryce and Snow Canyon as well as lakes just minutes from our home.

January 2005 we had the worst floods I have ever experienced. This community came together like a well oiled machine.

Everyone came out to help. I was able to pack sand bags and help stack them. It was so sad the loss that many people experienced. This is when I knew the people here were a very big family. The Mayor at the time was Dan McArthur. He would joke that there were two types of people, those that lived here and those that will live here. When people would come to visit our town they would want to move here.

The red rocks are like nowhere I have ever been. They are so beautiful and majestic. I love to hike and there are so many wonderful places to go and explore. Snow Canyon is my favorite. Its bright orange and white color sandstone canyons are a great place to do photo shoots. This is where I took my son’s senior pictures. The colors and rock formations made them turn out so well and made me feel like a professional.

Two weeks ago I went for a ride to a place I had never been to or heard about. Who would have known that this hidden beauty existed in our desert environment? Oak Grove, only about 40 minutes away, is full of large pine trees and of course oak trees, hence the name. It is beautiful with cascading creeks, water beds, red rocks, hiking and camping. This area was established by the Civilian Conservation Corps back in the 1930s. I cannot wait to go camping with my friends and family, where it is a little cooler and enjoy the beauty.

I am so thankful that I live here in St. George. I have mentioned to Gregg McArthur with the St. George Chamber that I would like to hold an event called, “There’s No Place Like Home,” because there is no place on earth that comes close to Southern Utah.

– Nina Heck

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

Sand Hollow Reservoir was new when we moved here. We always love to join our friends at the Reservoir for weekend trips of camping, swimming and boating. It is only 15 minutes from our home, so going to play is a frequent event we all look forward to. My kids like to fish, play in the sand and create memories. This is where I learned to wakeboard, my husband didn’t think I could do it but I showed him.

9

2014

Sharing the Art of Storytelling

by vs grenier When I was asked to be director and co-chair of the St. George Book Festival last year, I was beyond excited, and nervous!

Despite coming off of a two year hiatus, the event was a great success. With the support of our sponsors, The Utah Humanities Book Festival, Heritage Writers Guild, a chapter in the League of Utah Writers, St. George Children’s Museum, Washington Library System, Washington County School District and Dixie State University, I am looking forward to bringing an even bigger and better event to the community.

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

During my research to prepare for this year’s festival I came across a holiday in Spain called Saint George’s Day. This was of great interest and inspiration to me, not only for the name, but because of the holiday’s tradition to give books as a gift.

It has been passed down through story and legend so the details depend on who you ask. The core of the legend is that Saint George, a soldier in the Roman Army slayed a dragon and saved the life of a princess. The blood of the dragon transformed into a rose that Saint George gave to the princess.

It is customary for men to give roses to women, like the knight who addressed the princess. The women give the men a book, remembrance of the passing of great European writers that died on this day, Shakespeare being one of them. Of course, this tale is more of a fantastical episode than fact, however, it is told to the children in Spain through storytellers.

10

Ever After” by the town storyteller. We still see this today in our own community in the form of best-selling books such as Harry Potter, Twilight, The Guardian, Maze Runner, and many more. They captivate our minds, hearts and imaginations.

As an author and the mother of three beautiful children, I understand the importance of reading beyond educational purposes. Books open our minds to the world around us, while letting us explore and ponder concepts and realities we might not ever get a chance to experience in our own lifetime.

The theme of the St. George Book Festival this year is “Learn, Discover and Journey through the World of Books”. Readers of all ages and genres will get a chance to meet prolific authors, discuss books and ideas, and learn what it takes to be a successful author. The festival also offers writers of every genre and expression, the means to learn from those who have navigated the publishing industry. In addition, the event celebrates the talented writers and storytellers we have in our community as well as nearby communities. Readers will have the opportunity to meet, learn from and be inspired by those who have achieved literary success.

The art of storytelling has been around since the beginning of humanity. Listeners of all ages love to gather around and hear the tales of those who overcame all odds to live “Happily

David W. Smith, St. George Book Festival co-chair and author of the Hidden Mickey series, said “Today, all people, from our youth to our experienced seniors, have stories to tell; from tales of fantasy, fiction and historical novels to how to books, from family history to poetry, all telling stories through rhyme, meter and structure. Also, nearly everyone has an opportunity

to express themselves in written word, and in most cases there is an audience of some sort for each of these literary expressions; some larger audiences than others, of course!”

The St. George Book Festival will enliven all of Washington County October 2025, 2014. Multiple events are planned throughout the week in our schools and libraries. There will also be a writing workshop at Dixie State University and family events at the St. George Children’s Museum. There will also be a Youth Poetry Contest, sponsored by Dixie Poets of the Utah State Poetry Society

and a Short Story Writing Contest for all ages in conjunction with the St. George Book Festival.

This year’s festival is buzzing and promises to be an excellent opportunity for readers of all ages to become energized through some great, free literary events throughout Washington County. There will be a chance to mingle with a number of authors, share ideas, learn, discover and journey through the world of books.

Celebrating its 17th year, the Utah Humanities Book Festival is Utah’s oldest and only statewide book festival

event. The St. George Book Festival, as part of this statewide event, has become Washington County’s signature literary event and the second biggest literary event in Utah. It is because of this, October has become a time I look forward to, as I get the opportunity to share the love of the written word and art of storytelling once again.

more details and information about the st. george book festival can be found at www.stgeorgebookfestival.org.

ABOUT VS GRENIER: Virginia (VS) Grenier is an Award-winning Author and Mom’s Choice Honoree; along with Featured Blog Talk Radio Host of The Writing Mama. Grenier learned how to hone her writing skills at the Institute of Children’s Literature. She is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writer’s and Illustrators (SCBWI), the National Association of Professional Women (NAPW) and the League of Utah Writers (HWG chapter). Her works include Babysitting SugarPaw, the Best of Stories for Children Magazine Volume 1 anthology and over 50 short stories, crafts and articles for children and writers. “Having others read what you have written and giving feedback not only makes you a better writer, but you start to understand how a well written story’s voice captures the reader . . . drawing them into your world of ink,” states VS Grenier.

She is the Founder & Owner of Stories for Children Publishing LLC, partner of the World of Ink Network with signatory agent and author Marsha Casper Cook. A California girl at heart, she currently lives in Southern Utah with her husband, their three children, and the family’s miniature schnauzer Taz.

Now Serving Lunch and DInner

435-319-6005 511 S. Airport Road St. George, UT 84770

www.cliffsiderestaurant.com

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

Voted Best New Restaurant in Southern Utah

11

view on BUSINESS

What happened in Vegas didn’t stay in Vegas

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

It moved to Mesquite, then to St. George

12

It all started in 1996 when artist, golfer, and entrepreneur, Philip Moulton and his wife Brenda, created Art Visions. Art Visions was their Vegas brain child for mobile picture framing and interior art design. The business was an immediate success and was soon purchased by a New York family who expanded operations.

After the sale of Art Visions, Philip and Brenda moved to Mesquite in 2003 and opened Mesquite Art and Frame.

The new business was brought to life in the historic, two story Abbott Hotel. This particular location was ideal, except for the occasional interruptions by resident spirits that still occupy the house. The gallery offered artworks galore, bronze sculptures, unique gifts and custom framing. In 2006, Art and Frame published the first full color limited edition Mesquite Lithograph; still

available as a collectable art piece today.

Many Mesquite residents still remember the unique array of large bronzes decorating the lawn at the busy corner of Mesquite Boulevard and Hafen Lane.

The largest bronze to grace the lawn was a 9 foot, 400 pound fountain that was purchased by a woman from Idaho for her working ranch and farm.

A good thing was made better when their second gallery, Galleria ARTe, opened in the Business Park across from Mesa View Hospital in 2006.

The upscale gallery, managed by Brenda, quickly gained momentum and popularity. The deep leather couches, large art catalogs and refreshments provided a great space for conversation and socializing while surrounded by stunning art. The economic crash in 2007 changed the landscape for all business owners and the closing of Galleria ARTe was a sad but necessary move during those tough times. Soon after, Mesquite Art and Frame was disassembled and packed away as well.

In the fall of 2007, Phil and Brenda’s daughter Leah began attending

Tuacahn High School in Ivins, Utah.

The Moultons moved to Ivins to support their daughter and the fantastic curriculum at Tuacahn. Over the three years their daughter attended school there, they also provided housing for six other Tuacahn High students.

In May of 2008 the Moulton’s dreams were reborn in ARTe Gallery and Framing in St. George. It began as a mere 200 square foot office space at a location on Dixie Drive. The humble beginnings has now expanded into a 4000 square foot gallery and framing facility, offering over 500 art works, sculptures, gifts and quality framing. ARTe offers large gallery space free of charge for family or business gatherings, clubs, recitals, social groups, and local nonprofit events.

The space includes large bathrooms, and a full kitchen. The St. George Wine Club event held at the gallery drew nearly 100 visitors to sample wine, breads, cheeses and other delicious food. Miniature golf, horseshoes, ring toss and a raffle provided fun and prizes.

A covered porch and large grassy area outside are available for artist associations or nonprofit groups to hold

view on BUSINESS

done with pastel and Prismacolor onto art or photography matting enlarging the image so it mysteriously disappears at the frames edge. Many clients desire this process on large artworks. The David West Gallery in Springdale has many enhanced photographs on display.

functions. Two years ago a pet adoption day for cats and dogs was held.

ARTe is an urban style gallery with prices ranging from $8 to $8,000.

ARTe offers four artist rental booths for artists to display their work. This co-op extension is affordable and gives beginners a taste of art sales to test their marketing savvy. The gallery is beautifully decorated with nine murals painted by local artist Joni Haws who has painted murals for several homes and local businesses.

Another unique feature of ARTe is the art enhancement process Philip meticulously engages in. The process is

While Philip has expanded ARTe’s influence and even published his golf novel called “One Putt Trisha”, Brenda has expanded her own talents through energy release and other health modalities. She is a healer at heart and loves to work with others to improve health. “Good golf and good health are an awesome match,” Philip says.

To view a sampling of ARTe’s featured artworks visit the gallery website www.arte4artgallery.com. Check out their Facebook page and blog for articles on art subjects and available art deals. ARTe is located by Sunbrook Golf Course. Being an avid golfer, Philip loves the location as he is only four minutes away from the first tee! For questions about art valuations, repairs, framing, interior art design, mirrors, installations and the like, give Philip or Brenda a call or visit the gallery.

arte gallery and framing 415 south dixie drive st. george, ut (435) 862-0303 upcoming event at arte september 26, 2014 the dixie social Club octoberfest.

Join the club, and have a blast at this event. Call to join 435-251-9642

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

13

A Labor of Love – Transforming a Landmark

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

The idea for the Inn on the Cliff and Cliffside Restaurant was born when new Washington County resident Tom Heers was looking through Craigslist and found a hotel and restaurant for sale in St. George, Utah. He looked it up on Google Earth and quickly told his wife, Dorothy he knew what their next project would be. “When I saw it was on a cliff, it was all over. I knew we were going to try to purchase it.”

14

The former Rococco Hotel and Restaurant had fallen on hard times. Built in 1977 the property was a landmark restaurant in St. George. Purchased in August 2013, the extensive remodel was completed by February 2014. The hotel and restaurant opened to rave reviews. After just three months of operation the hotel was named #1 Hotel in St. George by Trip Advisor. The restaurant has delighted its customers with a menu of fresh American style food with a twist. According to Heers, the key to the success of the hotel and restaurant has been the merits of its hospitality and food.

The spectacular view of the beautiful city of St. George and the surrounding picturesque red hills is a bonus.

Tom Heers is a second generation general contractor who has been licensed in three states and has spent his career building

single family homes, commercial projects and hotels. With his contracting skills and Dorothy’s design skills, they put their collective efforts into this project along with many talented subcontractors, consultants and suppliers; and are proud of the results. The hotel and restaurant is soft contemporary with the view being the main emphasis.

The Heers love the hospitality business having previous hotel experience as the developers of the Anniversary Inns in Salt Lake City and Boise. According to Tom, “The Inn on the Cliff Hotel is an all-around hotel as the rooms lend themselves to honeymoons and ‘staycations.’ The hotel is also a great family hotel with hidden trundle beds and the Cliffside pool, bordered by glass overlooking the city”. With wall to wall windows, the panoramic views are spectacular from every room.

The construction was a beehive of activity for many months, a fun job to work on because of the view and the can-do attitude of the workers. “With an old building, there is always something unexpected happening to keep your attention”, according to Tom. As opening day, February 14th, approached the Heers were anxious to see the public response to the city’s landmark. They were happily surprised when it opened

to rave reviews and no vacancy for three straight days.

Dorothy was happy to see that the guests noticed all the little touches she had put in the rooms for their enjoyment. The rooms with their Simmons Beauty Rest mattresses are a big hit, as customers repeatedly ask where the beds were purchased. Also noted are the 50� HDTVs that are connected to high speed internet so the guests may watch movies with their Netflix accounts.

fresh food prepared by Chef Vance Lott and sou chef Paul Huggans, with terrific plate presentation and served by smiling young servers anxious to learn their craft and provide great hospitality.

This project, found on Craigslist, has become a labor of love for Tom and Dorothy. They, along with their friendly staff, invite all to come enjoy the experience at the Inn on the Cliff and Cliffside Restaurant.

The Cliffside Restaurant opened in April 2014 and was delighted to have the Sullivan family as one of their first customers. The family owned and operated the hotel and restaurant for over 30 years. From that night on guests have experienced great, reasonably priced

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

15

Kalamity Dance Group, Danc ing For Your C alamity

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

by meLissa eLiguL

16

A few months ago, casual work conversation turned to the topic of charity work. “There is a dance group in St. George called Kalamity, who put on the most amazing shows!

They are really talented dancers and the work they do for other people is just…awesome…” My coworker trailed off as he choked up, tears welling in his eyes. “It gets me every time I think about it” he said. It’s not everyday a grown man is moved to tears by the thought of charity work or dancing. When it happened again a few days later I thought, “This group must be some kind of special, I need to find out who this Kalamity Dance group is”.

Who is Kalamity Dance?

Kalamity is a hip hop dance group that operates out of The Vault studio in St. George. The Vault is a full time studio that teaches hip hop, jazz, cheer, and cardio classes to all ages and skill levels.

Kalamity also has a “little sister” group for younger dancers known as Kaos.

These talented and dedicated groups dance for two charity events each year

for families in need. They also perform at schools, assemblies, parades and recently added a “splash mob” to the list of fun performances.

Kalamity Dance was founded in 2007 by Tia Stokes. Tia is the youngest of seven children, all of whom were involved in music growing up. At the age of ten Tia started learning dance in her sister’s studio; by the age of twelve, she was teaching classes to her peers. Tia had found her passion, dance. She knew she wanted to be a professional dancer when she grew up. Tia completed high school early and attended Dixie State College.

After graduation, her career started off with a bang, her first professional job was dancing with Beyonce at a video music award show. Tia is talented beyond words and quickly she was living her dream. By the age of twenty she was living and working in Los Angeles and had hired Jamie Spears to be her manager. Her career had come together just like she had planned, however sometimes God has other plans.

While Tia was home in St. George visiting family she realized, she wanted to stay. “Despite everything I had going on in LA, I wanted to be here, I needed

Dance to be here. I can’t explain it; there is something about this place.” She was being called back home. “I knew there was a plan for me here” she said.

Tia returned to Southern Utah and resumed teaching dance at a local studio. Shortly after returning, she formed the group Kalamity. “In the beginning we were practicing anywhere.

We danced in my garage, then another member’s garage, we just kept rotating,” she laughs. When the group really started to take shape they rented space in a studio where they could practice comfortably.

The group decided to put together a performance for the public instead of just dancing for fun. At the time, one of the members was fighting cancer so they decided to use the performance as a fundraiser to help their sister. “That’s how it all started. It felt right. I was doing what I loved, giving

back and serving. Those are the things that are important to me.” Tia said. The first performance raised approximately $1400. Every year the group selects two families in need due to family tragedy or illness. They spend tireless hours coordinating events, choreographing dances and practicing for the big event. It is not uncommon to see these amazing people heading in to the studio at 4 a.m. for rehearsal. In the seven years since the first performance, they have raised over $150,000 and helped numerous families.

It’s not just the charity performances that make this a special group. The supportive and uplifting environment that is cultivated at The Vault is shaping the community and most importantly, the next generation. There is no (Dance Moms) attitude at this studio. Confidence is boosted through positive reinforcement of the individual strengths of each member and student. The group advocates against bullying and destructive behavior is not tolerated. Tia strongly feels that building one’s confidence is the key to a successful life, and what better way to do that than through dance.

if you would like to get involved, take classes or make a donation, please contact tia at beemele@gmail.com. you can also visit the vault at 175 W 900 s. suite 16, st. george, call them at (435) 216-8974, or visit their website thevaultdance.com. Like them on facebook to keep up with their latest performance, class offerings and general dancing shenanigans.

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

Kalamity

17

view on CHARITY

Making the Difference – Southern Utah Nonprofits Successful & Giving Back to the Community - Downtown Farmer’s Market at Ancestor Square

BY DAWN MCLAIN

In the past decade the United States has seen an explosion in the number of farmers markets, doubling in the past ten years. Today there are almost 7,000 farmers markets around the country; making these community style markets a fast growing segment. The Downtown Farmer’s Market at Ancestor Square (DFM) in St. George first opened in 2008. Founder Nicki Pace Richards recognized a need in our Southern Utah community to fill this niche. And fill it she did, with delicious healthy produce provided by local farmers.

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

In truth, farmers markets like DFM play a vital role in communities throughout America. Many farmers markets provide great social energy for visitors to enjoy time together. They also offer entertainment, education and the opportunity to personally talk with local farmers in a casual setting.

18

Most people understand that farmers markets are more than places to buy food. When you buy from a local farmer, you make a direct investment in your community. “Buy local” campaigns are everywhere, and the synergy between concept and campaign for this industry is easy to see. There is great value in supporting local businesses, including local farmers. Studies have shown that for every dollar that you spend at big box companies means mere pennies come back to the community.

Yes, DFM is great for our local economy and yes, it provides an opportunity to spend a wonderful morning strolling beautiful Ancestor Square and learning about nutritional food and healthy eating. However, there are even more reasons to love DFM! As a nonprofit organization funding is key to survival. Collaboration is also important. DFM has supported many nonprofit organizations in so many ways over the years.

This is why DFM is a wonderful organization and the focus of View on Southern Utah’s “Making the Difference”. VOSU met with Nicki Pace Richards, Founder of DFM.

VOSU: I am so glad for the opportunity to talk about DFM and its impact locally. I am a fan of the concept of building a community around food and love that DFM has an impact on our community from the ground up. Nicki please tell our readers about the organization.

NPR: DFM was started in 2008 as a way to help our local organic farmers find an outlet for their products and grow the industry in Southern Utah. Our restaurant (The Painted Pony), was supporting two local organic farmers and we wanted to see them succeed and grow, being able to make a living doing what they loved. It was a win win for the farmers, our community, and our restaurant.

Our Downtown Farmer’s Market is a cophony of colors, textures, fruits, vegetables, cheeses, local crafts and products; we invite folks to discover this gem at Ancestors Square. Shopping here is the best way to support the “Buy Local” movement as well as providing delicious, healthy produce for your family. I’m pleased to serve on the Board of Directors and am grateful for all that Jil Gardela, Market Manager, does to make it a special place on Saturday mornings!

– Dorothy Engelman VOSU: How do you impact our community?

NPR: Our weekly farmer’s market offers live music and a place for people to gather and enjoy the sense of place and community that downtown St. George offers. Over the seven seasons we have grown to offer more than just local produce; we offer an outlet for local artists and craftsmen, we have bakers and chefs who share their goods each week, fresh baked bread, cupcakes, tamales and so much more.

VOSU: I know DFM as an organization, and you personally, are very involved in the community.

NPR: Yes, my family goes back five generations in the historic downtown area and that has created my commitment and love for the area and a desire to see it flourish and be one of those special historic downtowns that people appreciate. Three years ago we started an organization called the Downtown Business Merchant Group; teaming up downtown business owners and the city. Together we are working to market and brand our downtown, making it an attraction that will benefit the entire city.

view on CHARITY MiSSiOn StateMent To support and promote local growers, artists, craftsman and bakers at a weekly venue known as the Downtown Farmer’s Market at Ancestor Square.

Downtown Farmer’s Market Ancestor Square - NW Corner of St. George Blvd. & Main Street, St. George UT Open: Saturdays 8:00 a.m. – Noon, May 10 – Nov. 1, 2014 Director: Nicki Pace Richards nickiutah@gmail.com (435) 574.6442 Market Manager: Jil Gardella downtownfarmersmarket@yahoo.com (435) 632.3721 www.farmersmarketdowntown.com/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/ downtownfarmersmarketstgeorge VOSU: So, why the farmer’s market then? That sounds like a lot of work.

NPR: True. As we were growing our own business and trying to buy local and organic produce we saw a need for a farmer’s market. We encouraged the few local growers to start a farmer’s market but they were so busy they did not have the time. This is what inspired us to start the farmer’s market and it has been growing ever since.

VOSU: How are your programs/services funded?

NPR: DFM is a nonprofit and we count on donations from our community to enable us to market and promote who and what we are. That has always been the most difficult part of making the market successful; we just don’t have the man power to find big sponsors. The Painted Pony Restaurant has been the main sponsor since the beginning; paying the start up fees and using most of our advertising. We don’t run the market as a profit. A small booth fee is charged ($5, $10 or $15 per week depending on what you are selling) to encourage participation and involvement. We see this as a great benefit to our local economy and community, that is truly the goal.

VOSU: Your efforts are paying off, community outreach and engagement has been growing. Tell us about your greatest accomplishments?

VOSU: What can we expect from your organization in 2014?

NPR: This year brings two big changes to the market that we are very excited about. The first is we are in the process of offering our customers the benefit of the SNAP program (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), this program offers aid to lower income families to shop at the local farmer’s market. The second big change is the incorporation of an educational program into the

VOSU: How can others support your cause?

NPR: Wherever you live, a big city or small town, support your local farmer’s market. This is where you will meet the farmer who is growing your food, you will meet the craftsmen who are making the pottery or felted the purse you purchase. The money you spend at the local farmer’s market goes into your community and directly benefits the people producing the product, there is no middle man. Think about how far your produce travels when you shop at a grocery store, 1,500 miles on average, Wow! At DFM, produce travels only a few miles from the farm to your dinner table.

VOSU: Tell us about events or opportunities coming up for the community to get involved in.

NPR: Every Saturday morning from 8 a.m. to noon there is an opportunity for the community to get involved. Come enjoy the music, a morning pastry and a cup of coffee or lemonade. We are always looking for sponsors; it is the only way our market will continue to grow. We have sponsorships at every level from an individual donation of $25 to $2,500 for corporate sponsorships.

All donations are welcome and appreciated. It feels good to support local!

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

NPR: I think our greatest accomplishment is that we are still in existence after seven years and we are a part of our community.

Each year we grow and see new farmers and gardeners join the market. It is always evolving and changing just as the growing seasons offer different fruits and vegetables. There is something different at the market each week.

market. We will be offering educational classes during the market; classes will include cooking demos offering recipes using local produce, planting demos showing how to plant seeds and grow your own produce and more.

19

Resurgence of Southern Utah’s Inspiring Night Skies

by Karen L. monsen the heavens and paid attention to what was overhead. The average Anasazi must have had a better knowledge of the patterns of the stars and cycles of sun and moon than the average inhabitant of the Southwest today. A thousand years ago people’s lives were governed by the intertwining cycles of sun and moon, and observational astronomy must have played major roles in providing planting and ritual calendars.”

night sky stories are common in the southern Paiute tribe. the award winning, recently released children’s book, Why the moon Paints her face black, by southern Paiute, eleanor tom, recounts the native american folk tale in southern Paiute and english and is illustrated by children of Paiute indian tribe of utah.

By exploring sky legends in places where the stars fill the sky, we may be able to “get under the skin” of those ancient sky watchers and come close to experiencing the night sky as our ancestors did.

Night skies are a source for human inspiration, imagination, and exploration.

From ancient to modern times, the skies, stars, and vast universe have framed religious beliefs, cultural practices, and inspired people to reach for the sky to explore the unknown.

In Southern Utah, interest in Native American legends has found a new partner with Dark Sky advocates. A blend of astronomy, archaeology, and anthropology has spurred interest in native legends and is drawing people to places where dark skies provide excellent star viewing opportunities.

McKim Malville, writing in Prehistoric Astronomy in the Southwest, explains, “In the sub-field of astronomy known as archaeoastronomy, the challenge is to ‘get under the skin’ of those ancient sky watchers and to be able to see the heavens through their eyes.” Malville reminds us that, “The ancient people of the American Southwest lived close to

Sky legends are present in all tribes and civilizations. The Osage and Plains Indians believed the souls of the dead journeyed along the “Milky Way” and southern California’s Chumash Indians referred to that sky path as the “road of the dead.” In Beyond the Blue Horizon, astronomer and Director of the Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles, Dr. E. C. Krupp writes, “Luiseno Indians in southern California also saw seasonal significance in the Milky Way, but for them the Milky Way was a kind of primordial trampoline that bounced the sun into the sky at the time of creation.

It was also a net that kept the sun on course once it was launched into heaven.” Dr. Krupp goes on to mention

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

Before we invented civilization, our ancestors lived mainly in the open, out under the sky. Before we devised artificial lights and atmospheric pollution and modern forms of nocturnal entertainment, we watched the stars. there were practical calendar reasons of course but there was more to it than that. even today the most jaded city dweller can be unexpectedly moved upon encountering a clear night sky studded with thousands of twinkling stars. When it happens to me after all these years it still takes my breath away.

– Astronomer Carl Sagan, Pale Blue Dot: A Vision of the Human Future in Space

21

that the Skidi Pawnee believed the Milky Way was “…a stream of divine milk, as a celestial river, or as a highway in the sky, the Milky Way linked the gods, the spirits, the dead, the shamans, and the souls of the living with the spiritual dimension of the sky.”

The Lakota tell a story of a bear chasing seven maidens who were saved when they were lifted into the sky and turned into the stars of the Pleiades. The ground clawed by the bear in his failed attempt to reach the maidens was transformed into the Devils Tower.

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

A Paiute story recounted in Voices of the Winds, by Margot Edmonds and Ella E. Clark, describes how the North Star came to be when a young mountain sheep named Na-gah kept climbing higher and higher peaks until he reached so high he got stuck and could not come down. His father, Shinon, turned him into a star where he rests as the “Fixed (North) Star” that guides travelers while the other stars move around in the night sky.

22

Retired Bureau of Land Management (BLM) archaeologist Boma Johnson, who teaches courses as part of Dixie State University Community Education

program, often discusses sky legends in his classes dealing with rock art, archaeology, and ancient civilizations.

One of his favorite tales involves the explanation of the deliberate placement of stars in the sky and the apparent random placement of others. As the story goes, Spider Woman (Hopi creator deity) was carefully placing stars in the sky when Coyote (the trickster) came along and offered to help. Spider Woman explained the need for thoughtful placement, but Coyote believed it was taking too much time to complete the task. One night, to speed up the process, Coyote put the remaining stars on a blanket and holding the corners flipped the blanket and propelled the stars into the air where they remain today. Johnson notes over 100 Southern Utah petroglyphs with sky metaphors and references to humansky interactions. Some represent the Venus “star” that pulls the sun up in the morning and tugs it in place in the evening and others use a grid design to symbolize the Milky Way. Johnson emphasizes the ancient earth-sky connection, “Life for them was much more tied to the celestial order than it is in our culture. They had ways to describe the journey and the sky places where

we came from, unmatched by anything in our modern culture.”

Sky legends resonate only as long as people can see the stars in the sky.

In the 2012 PBS documentary, The City Dark, astronomer Andrew Fraknoi reports, “…as many as 80 percent of people in the world have never seen the Milky Way.” Additionally, the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) website posted, “Once a source of wonder, and one half of the entire planet’s natural environment, the star filled nights of just a few years ago are vanishing in a yellow haze.

Human produced light pollution not only mars our view of the stars; poor lighting threatens astronomy, disrupts ecosystems, affects human circadian rhythms, and wastes energy to the tune of $2.2 billion per year in the U.S. alone.”

IDA is a non-profit organization that promotes public awareness, works to improve nighttime lighting, and recognizes areas at various dark sky levels. In March 2014, IDA bestowed Gold Tier status, the highest dark sky level, on Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument. After a six month qualifying process, 1.05 million acres

For additional information on this subject visit the following websites: International Dark Sky Association: www.darksky.org Grand Canyon Parashant National Monument: www.nps.gov/para/index.htm National Park Service night sky website: www.nature.nps.gov/night Dixie State University Community Education Programs: ce.dixie.edu/index.php Native American legends: www.firstpeople.us/FP-htm/legends

on the “Arizona Strip” became the first BLM land to receive a dark sky distinction. Other IDA Dark Sky places on the Colorado Plateau include Natural Bridges National Monument and Chaco Canyon National Historical Park.

In the Parashant press release, Physical Science Specialist Eathan McIntyre explained, “Solitude and wilderness have always been associated with Parashant and these characteristics exemplify our night skies.” Parashant staff is working on amateur astronomy viewing nights, constellation tours, festivals, storytelling, interpretative exhibits, and events to be hosted on the monument and in partnership with gateway communities including Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, State Parks, Pipe Springs National Monument, Native American Tribes, Astronomical Societies, and Washington County School District.

Washington County municipalities supporting dark sky initiatives include Ivins and Springdale. These two communities have established outside lighting ordinances to encourage residents to select light fixtures that will illuminate desired areas without scattering light skyward. As dark sky compliant areas expand, the stars will return to their visual prominence in the sky. Grand Canyon-Parashant and dark sky places are poised to attract astronomers and tourists desiring to gaze upon a star filled sky, contemplate the Milky Way, retell Native American legends and sky stories, and revel in the awe and wonder of the celestial universe. Southern Utah is a special place where the stars can align in a spectacular display that inspires the human spirit.

“The Milky Way allowed our ancestors to reach into heaven.

If we let ourselves lose it completely in the smudge and stain of artificial lights, our spirits are bound to be more confined to earth.” – Dr. E. C. Krupp, Beyond the Blue Horizon

Karen L. Monsen is a freelance writer who lives in St. George, Utah. She covers outdoor topics, nature, science, research, and human impacts.

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

23

: l o o h c S o T k Ba c d e t c e n n ing Co Stay

n e e T r u With Yo

By Justin Stum, LMFT

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

We live in a world that thrives on instant gratification.

The prevalence of mobile devices and tablets provides a forum for content on demand. Unfortunately, although we have a plethora of facts at our fingertips with our trusty smart phones, the answers to our complex social questions and emotional quandaries are not always so instantaneous. As our youth have come to rely on the immediate response of text messaging, global positioning satellites, and the all knowing Google, the answers to questions like, “Why doesn’t he think I’m pretty?” or “What do I do to fit in?” aren’t nearly as simple. In a sense, our children have been constantly surrounded by the clear cut, black and white, definitive answers of text on a screen when more often than not; the answers to these complicated life questions don’t necessarily come in the form of written content.

24

No matter how much parents feel like they can relate to their adolescent or teenage children, this society and the social expectations are not the same as they were twenty years ago. Often many parents tend to overlook the fact that we’ve enabled this deep rooted dependence on technology, yet still expect our children to react and respond as if they truly have the emotional experience and social know how to handle this fast paced and complicated world without some help every now and again.

With school back in session, it is imperative to establish open lines of communication so your child knows that he or she can always come to you. Creating this sense of trust in your teen can sometimes be a little challenging, but if you clearly communicate your expectations as well as ensure they know you can and will listen to them, and I mean really listen; they will come to you with their concerns, questions, and thoughts.

Establishing a pattern of listening, even if you don’t agree with your teen, will provide a solid path they will continue to walk again and again as they open up to you. For example, if your teen finds themselves in a compromising or unhealthy situation, the last thing you (as a parent) should want is for your child to avoid calling or telling you about it, for fear of reprimand or punishment. I’m not saying that all discipline is to be avoided during these adolescent years, but a healthy balance will do wonders for building trust. Reiterate that you are always there for them if they are ever caught in an unsafe or uncomfortable situation. Clearly communicating that you will always love them even if you don’t support decisions they make will also help maintain open dialogue.

Set aside a regular time to have heartfelt and connected conversation with your teen. Sometimes, they may pass because it doesn’t feel ‘cool’, and that’s ok, but make sure there is ample opportunity for them to have your undivided attention, just in case they do want to tell you something significant.

Emotional insecurity is incredibly common among teenagers today, yet it’s important for teens to understand that their feelings and struggles do not define or control them. It need not be assumed that

teens know their parent’s level of love and concern for them. In truth, no child is ever too old to receive praise or compliments. Remember, you can and need to freely offer your verbal approval. Phrases like “I’m so proud of, how you ...” or “I love the way you...” or “I can tell you really ...” can prove helpful in them knowing you can see their growth.

Remember, a lot has changed since you were a teenager.

Although the concepts are the same, the way that today’s teens face dilemmas is not. Do not try to convince your child that you know how they feel. You don’t and even if

you try really hard to understand, you probably won’t fully understand simply because our society in the last decade has evolved considerably. It is important for parents to remember that healthy communication with an adolescent or teen is not about telling them what they should do. Healthy communication is about establishing mutual respect and trust.

Teens unfold as they come to learn where they fit in their family and the greater community. They need parents that love them enough to hold the line. Often with most parentteen relationships, the best way to ‘communicate’ with your adolescent is to simply listen.

Green With Envy Property Services Landscape Maintenance Sprinkler Repair (CPO Certified) Brendan McQueen

Justin Stum is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice in St. George, Utah. As a relationship and emotional wellness expert, he has been treating individuals, teens, and couples for over a decade assisting them in creating and maintaining connected healthy relationships. He can be reached online at www.justinstum.com or by phone at 435.574.9193

(435) 817-1024 volyop@aol.com

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

Pool Cleaning

25

Visit, Volunteer – Enjoy the Nation’s Most Special Animal Sanctuary

By Laurel Beesley

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

A lively young cat spins around the floor of a cottage in Cat World, while a warier cat eyes visitors from its lofty perch on a large branch stretching from floor to ceiling. Everywhere cats of all sizes, shapes and colors sleep, groom, play and observe in a playful environment where cats do rule.

26

At Feathered Friends, colorful parrots and cockatoos in the beautiful Parrot Garden flap their wings, laugh, talk and shreek as Animal Care attendants spray them with water bottles. Not far away, several horses gallop across a field surrounded by looming red cliffs. Their more sedate friends and an old mule patiently watch the road for the coming hay truck.

In Dog Town, famous for its appearance in the National Geographic Channel series titled “Dogtown”, barking, romping dogs tease their buddies and get ready to be taken for long walks by generous volunteers. All these precious animal communities are part of the nation’s largest no-kill animal sanctuary, Best Friends.

More than one person visiting Best Friends has come away calling it a Camelot for animals. The 2,000+ acre property sits

inside the appropriately named Angel Canyon, and provides a place for the healing and shelter of about 1,700 different animals. The animals come from rescue groups and shelters across the country, and sometimes even from special rescue missions across the world. What they have in common is that they are the hard luck animals in need of extra special attention, many have been abused, neglected or have special needs. At Best Friends, a well-tended environment with committed staff, a special veterinary clinic and even rehabilitation center, the animals begin a new life. Many will be adopted after their immediate needs are met, others will spend the rest of their lives here. Their stories have become the magical history of the sanctuary.

Through the year, Best Friends offers daily tours from the Welcome Center. “Visit, Volunteer, Adopt” is the motto that greets visitors arriving for one of the four regular tours.

Each tour takes about 1 1/2 hours and winds through the spectacular red rock landscape pointing to the different animal habits. Brief stops at Cat World and Dogtown give visitors a chance to meet a few of the most extroverted four legged residents. Special tours are available for visits to the Bunny

House, Horse Haven, Piggy Paradise and the Parrot Garden.

Parents should be advised this is not a petting zoo experience so children will be able to look but not touch.

The other option is to make volunteering part of your Best Friends experience. Guests are invited to join in cleaning, feeding, or even spending quality play time with animals eager for attention! Volunteers are even allowed to take an animal home for the night for a sleep over if their accommodations are pet friendly (most of the accommodations in Kanab welcome pets.) You can volunteer for a few hours, or plan a whole vacation around spending time here. Children over the age of 6 are allowed to volunteer; any child under 18 must be accompanied by a parent. Volunteers are welcome all year, the holidays often being an extra special chance to join in the spirit of good will.

Visitors to Best Friends may also want to spend a few days exploring the many splendid attractions of Southern Utah.

Zion National Park, the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Lake Powell, and the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument are all within 90 minutes driving time from Kanab. To obtain more information about lodging, hiking, sight-seeing and other recreational activities in this marvelous “Heart of the National Parks”, go to visitsouthernutah.com or call the Kane County Travel Center in Kanab at (800)733-5263.

Best Friends is located five miles north of the friendly western legends town, Kanab, Utah.

Visitors are advised to make advance tour reservations through the Welcome Center. To plan a volunteer experience, visit volunteer.bestfriends.org; email volunteers@bestfriends.org or call (435) 644-2001.

KANAB is centrally located right in the middle of ten of America’s greatest scenic wonders, making it the perfect location for hiking, exploring, boating, photography, and back country adventure.

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

Make Kanab Utah your “Basecamp for Adventure”

27

Footprints in the Sand – A Dutch Runner Prepares for the G2G Ultra

by LaureL beesLey

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

In mid-July, Grand to Grand Ultra, also known as “G2G”, contestant Chantal arrives in Kanab, Utah, from the Netherlands. She is arriving two months before the 170 mile (275 km) ultra-race as she knows that altitude, heat and an unknown landscape are complications she needs to understand before running in her first G2G. She has made the commitment to the daunting race, now she needs that edge of courage and experience only additional training on site will provide.

28

The first few days are tiring and discouraging.

After running for hours through deep sand in the Coral Pink Sand Dunes, and the nearby Peek-a-Boo trail she comes back to her camper van. She is bone weary and intimidated. G2G means running through sand dunes, in shallow rivers, along forest trails and into slot canyons, a remarkable terrain she has never encountered. The high desert is truly amazing and totally unlike anything she has ever seen in Europe. It is also taking its toll.

Over the next few days her perspective shifts. The altitude is no longer as daunting and the magnificent canyon country ignites her enthusiasm. After a strong run through Buckskin Gulch she comes back

to the van smiling, refreshed, and elated. She reflects on her change in attitude and knows that it is coming from the lure of this amazing landscape, as well as her improved running. Sitting in her camp chair at night, listening to the sounds of a country western concert nearby in Kanab, she knows that this was exactly the adventure she had been dreaming of.

“I have never had a need to be one of the winners,” she explains. “But what I do need is to feel that I am capable of proving to myself that I can, not only do this but do it well. Now, I not only feel that I am going to make it, but I am so in love with this place I’m dreaming about how exceptional the event is going to be.” The immeasurable magic of the Southern Utah landscape has worked its charm on Chantal. “I’m in love with this place” she goes on to explain. “There is so much diversity; I would never have believed it, even after reading all those descriptions. And soon I will see even more, from the extra special perspective of a runner!”

Chantal, like countless other endurance runners, believes in the uplifting personal power that comes from running. During the weeks she spent working

out from a home base in Kanab, she met local runners who not only encouraged her dedication but shared their own enthusiasm for running in Southern Utah. “Utah really rocks for runners,” joked one native Kanab resident.

To follow the race course and visit Southern Utah, please visit g2gultra.com or visitsouthernutah.com.

“I could come live here and be very happy,” Chantal shares.

For now, she has finished her three week training stint, returned to the Netherlands, and will return in September.

117 people from at least 21 different countries will join her September 21, 2014 at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon where they will all begin their seven day extreme challenge, running in the most breathtaking landscape on earth.

Serving St. George, UT and Mesquite, NV

435-862-1264

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

The original mission of the Grand to Grand race team was to create an event that encourages awareness and protection of the environment and an appreciation of limited, valuable resources like water. It is the first, and only self supported foot race in North America. This means that every participant must carry all their personal resources, without the support of a crew. The seven day, six stage race begins at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon and ends at the summit of the Pink Cliffs of Grand Staircase, Escalante National Monument. Runners from countries as diverse as India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia as well as European, Canadian and, of course, our American runners look forward to stepping well outside their comfort zone, and running in a place that is unmatched in astounding natural beauty. For some, the experience has been so exceptional they are returning not only for the glory of the challenge but for the opportunity to continue to enjoy the intriguing landscape, and the local friendly western community.

29

view on GOLF

Longer Tee Shots & Crisper Fairway Shots

by Cocking Your Wrists Properly Rob Krieger - PGA Golf Professional An important key to hitting your tee shots longer or improving contact with your fairway shots is how and when you set your wrists.

This is also known as the wrist cock or hinging your wrists which when done properly can add distance, power and better contact.

Key 1 – Setting the wrists is different for fairway shots and tee shots.

WHY? Fairway shots are meant to strike the ball on a descending approach and on the upswing for tee shots because your ball is off the ground and in the air.

Key 2 – The wrist set should NEVER go past 90 degrees from the lead arm forearm (left arm for right handed players) during the backswing.

Key 3 – Hinging your wrists should not force your lead arm to bend.

Lead arm should always be straight in the backswing.

Key 4 – Unhinging of the wrists does not start the downswing, which is a main reason players slice. The body should start the downswing and pull the club back to the ball.

F1

F3

F2

F4

FAIRWAY SHOTS – Ball is played about 3” off your front foot. In the take away, the club brushes along the ground at least to the instep of the back foot and then will start to come up (F1). As it starts to come off the ground, the left hand starts to push the end of the grip down to the ground so that when the left arm is parallel to the ground the club should be at 90 degrees to the ground and the forearm (F2&F3). Your right elbow is still close to the body and bent down. After this point, the rest of the backswing should be shoulder and hip turn (F4). By setting the hands this early (F3), it makes the last part of the backswing easy because the body just has to turn to complete a backswing. To start the downswing, the body pulls the club back to the ball striking it and then touching the turf IN FRONT of the ball.

BALL THEN TURF!

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

T1

30

T2

T3

T4

TEE SHOTS – The ball is played off the heel of your front foot. It is played further forward in the stance than when on the ground because you should be catching the ball on the upswing. In the take away, the club brushes along the ground till just past the outside of the back foot as you stretch-out your left arm and even allow the right elbow to come away from the body as you try to make a big arc (T1&T2).

As the left arm gets parallel to the ground, the club should start to get vertical but not be at 90 degrees like a fairway swing(T2&T3). Turn your shoulders to finish the back swing while setting the club only to 90 degrees and MUST NOT GO PAST PARALLEL to the ground (T4). To start the downswing, the lower body pulls the upper body and the club back to the ball and the club should catch the ball below its equator on the upswing. The wider arc in the backswing will automatically make the club head further away and generate more speed without swinging any harder. Bigger Arc = Faster Clubhead Speed. Maintain good rhythm and tempo and your tee shots will go longer, naturally.

For further explanation, please check out my video regarding setting the hands at stgeorgegolflessons.com. Good Luck and 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.

’ .

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

31

view on TRAVEL

Where in the World……

Do you Want to Play Golf?

Photo courtesy of rob krieger

By Rob Krieger Like a lot of golfers, I have a list a mile long on places that I want to take my golf game to on the road. Whether you want to play with family or friends, as a couple or for that ladies/guys trip, the options are endless. I am constantly asked about different destinations on where to play so here are some that will not disappoint. The best part of these options is that if you want to go with someone that doesn’t want to play golf every waking second, or not at all, a good time can still be had by everyone.

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

The Greenbrier – West Virginia, USA

32

– Best in Summer & Late SeptemberEarly October but is open year round for activities even when the golf courses are covered in snow. “America’s Resort” is home to the PGA Tour and is one of the tours top destinations for the players and their families. There are 5 courses to play and a ton of things to do other than Golf, Spa and Casino like: Bowling, Culinary Classes, Tennis, Theatre & Fitness but outdoors there is Archery, Biking, Carriage Rides, Fishing, Hunting, Gun Club, Horseback Riding, Kayaking, Whitewater Rafting, Segway Tours and ATV Riding. You can even tour the “Bunker” – Americas Second White House. This is a classic destination that has been catering to guests since 1778.

Napa Valley – California, USA – Late May/Early June. The great part of this trip is that you can stay and play at the newly renovated Silverado Resort & Spa. There are 2-18 hole courses to play and the PGA tour plays the Fry’s Open in October. A beautiful scenic destination

in the prestigious wine country of Napa Valley where you can golf all day and then test your palette on some of the finest wines in the world. You might even want to get daring and get a view from above and go for an exciting hot air balloon ride. There is always champagne to celebrate your returning to earth.

Cheers!

Dominican Republic – Fall /Winter Punta Cana – There are a lot of all inclusive resorts like a Hard Rock or Dreams. Depending on the atmosphere you want to have from romantic and small like Zoetry to the new and modern Secrets, Dominican has it all. The golf is some of the best on the planet. Last

fall, I played the Punta Espana by Jack Nicklaus at La Cana and with a good portion of the holes by the ocean, I have never played a course with such a beautiful ocean setting with turquoise water surrounding the fairways and greens. There are other courses like Corales, a Tom Fazio design with its ocean cliffs, sea coves and Caribbean waves misting the course as you play which is bound to bring you back again and again. Many of the resorts are all inclusive with countless activities to do or not do, you can’t make a bad choice.

Mexico - Fall/Winter/Spring Cancun – No matter if you want to stay in more populated hotel district or the

view on TRAVEL quieter southern Riveria Maya area you have your choice of amazing properties and golf courses like Moon Palace, Riviera Cancun, Playa Mujeres or the PGA Tour tested Mayakoba design by Greg Norman. Most resorts are all inclusive with unlimited food and drinks with the golf being an extra charge but you have to get away from the pool and the beach at some point.

Puerto Vallarta & Los Cabos/Cabo San Lucas – Two unique areas in western Mexico with some new twists. Both are building new courses and adding to some already great challenges but in Puerto Vallarta some of the 9 courses available have added “All-Inclusive” golf to cater to golfers.

Play as much golf as you want, drinks, food, range, golf cart are all included in the price of the green fee. Some of the courses have incredible views of the ocean and lagoons and have been designed by the best like Nicklaus and Weiskopf.

Puerto Vallarta has many top rated courses which are playable for all skill levels. No need to bring your own birdie bottle.

In Los Cabos/Cabo San Lucas – This golf destination within a short period of time has risen to the top of many golfers bucket lists. It is a luxury destination with high end resorts and golf courses at the tip of the baja peninsula. There is a lot of new development happening due to the popularity of the area which currently has 108 resorts with more to come.

Some of the courses are Palmilla (Nicklaus), Cabo del Sol (Weiskopf), Cabo Riviera (Dye), Cabo Real (RTJones II) and the latest creation of Puerto Los Cabos which combines 9 holes from Nicklaus and 9 holes from Norman. Fabuloso!

Scotland & Ireland – Spring/Summer/Fall

Go play where the game started. History speaks through the walls of the clubhouse and you can walk where the legends of golf have walked and play the game the way it was meant to be played. There are so many places to play and things to do, there is just isn’t enough room here but here are two unique options to cross the pond and experience the birthplace of golf. Azamara Cruise line and Celebrity Cruises both offer a 2015 British Open package where you can cruise, play golf,

see the sites and attend the British Open. Either itinerary would be a trip of a lifetime all without packing and unpacking.

Guinness Anyone?

So go travel and take your golf game on the road. There is a whole world of golf courses waiting for you to enjoy.

Fairways & Greens! Rob Krieger

if you would like more information on any of these destinations for you or your golf group it would be a pleasure to provide more details. rob@sgugolf.com

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

33

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

> > Who’s out & about > >

34

> >

findlay automotive of utah presented a $10,555 check to Washington County sherriff’s search & rescue on august 1, 2014. the company officially donated the proceeds from their 4th annual findlay Charity golf tournament held earlier this year on June 8th. the donation helps the search & rescue team to procure necessary equipment and training which will allow them to respond to the 40 – 50 calls for services each month. the team is made up of approximately 70 dedicated volunteers saving hundreds of lives in southern utah each year.

thunder over utah

the st. george municipal airport hosted the 2nd thunder over utah air show in July. the event included the united states navy blue angels, classic military aircraft, civilian performers, static aircraft displays and fun activities for kids and families. fans were also treated to demonstrations of the Jetbus – reaching speeds in excess of 300 mph. the united states army Parachute team “the golden Knights” amazed the crowd during their inaugural performance.

StarNursery.com

sunset on the sQuare

sunset on the square celebrated the movie frozen at town square Park in st. george. the festivities included face painting, games, prizes, the dealer Collision Water balloon Challenge, star nursery’s Kids Corner, the Kia hamsters and dancing! the audience also participated in a st. george Community “Let it go” sing-along video!

House Call

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

>

findLay automotive donates big!

35

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

TUACAHN–AND MUCH MORE

36

“i was awestruck,” wrote orval hafen, the original owner of the property at the turn of the 20th century, upon seeing the area that is now home to the tuacahn Center for the arts. he exclaimed, “there before me lay a scene of indescribable beauty; wild, primitive, unspoiled, largely unknown, waiting to be enjoyed, waiting to inspire folks.” Within these towering red sandstone cliffs, he desired that others [might one day] share this beauty and drink the inspiration that is here.

by JosePh e. smith Orval Hafen’s vision came to a reality when the Tuacahn Amphitheatre and Center for the Arts opened in the summer of 1995. Now enjoying its 19th season, Tuacahn will host more than 260,000 people who enjoy musical theatre on a talent and production level that surpasses Broadway.

Even Though Tuacahn is mostly known for its spectacular theatre productions like Disney’s The Little Mermaid, or for its concert series ranging from Willie Nelson to Brian Reagan, there are some other incredible things that happen below these 1,500 foot cliffs.

Tuacahn High School for the Performing Arts (THS) is a Utah State Charter School (grades 9-12). The high school combines rigorous college preparatory programs with intensive instruction in the performing and visual arts. Did you know THS is the state of Utah’s first charter school? THS opened in August of 1999 with 86 students. This fall 375 students will be enrolled! THS has earned numerous awards in both state performing arts competitions and for academic achievements.

Perhaps less well known to Southern Utah is Tuacahn’s Summer Arts Institute (TSAI), an extension program of the high school. The purpose of TSAI is to provide intensive music training in an un-paralleled environment with world class faculty. Beginning in 2009, TSAI was originally conceived as a small quartet program with 6 students. The 2014 music festival will have three separate institutes for Symphonic, Percussion and Jazz including over 150 students from around the nation. The faculty comes from some of the most

prestigious institutions and ensembles in the world and are dedicated to enriching the lives of students at the Tuacahn Summer Arts Institute. For two weeks students and masters will come together to create beautiful music.

Tuacahn is becoming well known for the Tuacahn Saturday Market hosted every Saturday throughout the year. It is another way for those who want to experience more of Tuacahn can enjoy the wonderful surroundings at an outdoor market in the canyon, featuring local artwork, crafts, food and entertainment. Chris Graham, the Saturday Market organizer says “This will become a tradition in St. George for locals and visitors alike, it will really be a fun event year around for the whole family.”

At Tuacahn there is something for everyone. If you are a biker wanting to enjoy a ride up the canyon, or a hiker who wants to climb on the trail that connects Padre Canyon to the trail systems of Snow Canyon State Park; if you are a student at the high school or a family that wants to enjoy the Saturday Market, or simply a patron of the arts, Tuacahn has something to offer everyone.

Write It Up ! is a f u l l- se rvice marke t in g an d PR f irm loca t ed in S t. Ge o rg e , Utah

Marketing • Public Relations • Graphic Design • Radio Scripts and Voice Over • TV Commercial Production • Event Planning • Advertising Campaigns/Media Buy • Blog Development • Marketing/PR Related Training

for more information about tuacahn, please visit our website www.tuacahn.org.

702-860-2341 Dawn McLain, Owner/Principal – Write It Up! 765 Escalante Drive | St. George, UT 84770

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

Celebrating our 20th year, we provide a team of experienced professionals that will support your company and its future. We offer comprehensive services for efficient and effective marketing, advertising and public relations.

37

Muslim Journeys

by Christina sChuLtZ Photo by toneZee To recognize the beginning of Al Hijra (the Islamic New Year) from October 28 – 30, 2014 the Utah Humanities Council and Dixie State University are proud to collaborate on “Muslim Journeys” a festival of films, discussions, visual art and photographic displays exploring Muslim themes. The DSU library is participating with a series of books from the Bridging Cultures Bookshelf Series.

■ art & Lectures

Glass sculptures will be featured in the Sears Art Museum Gallery by artist/scholar Andrew Kosorok, interpreting the “99 Names of God” in Islam. Kosorok is a graduate of BYU and is currently a sculpture and stain glass professor at BYU. His philosophy is “The lines of separation between paths of faith are often due to a difference in vocabulary, rather than differences in where the heart is directed.”

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

Sculptures and paintings will be on display in the Eccles Grand Foyer by Pakistani artist Shazad Sheikh. He has taught in the DSU Visual Arts Department and has been featured in over fifteen national television programs regarding the development of batik art in Pakistan. Also featured will be photography of Islamic art, architecture and culture from photographer Tonezee’s world travels.

38

The journey begins on Tuesday, October 28th with a special lecture by Dr. Kathleen Herndon, a member of the English faculty at Weber State University and English Department Chair. For ten years she has lived in Isfahan, Iran, and Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Her academic interests are in Middle Eastern Women Writers and English Education.

■ Documentary films

The documentary films are free and will be screened at 7 p.m. in the DSU Eccles Fine Arts Center Concert Hall. The schedule is as follows: Tuesday, Oct. 28, 2014 Prince Among Slaves (in partnership with DSU Multi Cultural Diversity Center).

Brought by slave ship to Natchez, Mississippi in 1788, a twenty-six year old man named Abdul Rahman made the remarkable claim that he was an “African prince”. During his enslavement he toiled on the Foster plantation, married, and

fathered nine children, before his claim was validated and he was set free to go home. His story made him one of the most famous Africans in America for a time, attracting the attention of powerful men such as Secretary of State, Henry Clay.

The film will be followed by a discussion featuring Dr. Kathleen Herndon and Rev. Dr. Joel A. Lewis, Chair, Department of History and Political Science.

Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2014 Koran by Heart (in partnership with DOCUTAH).

The Qur’an says that if you memorize and teach it to others, you will be successful in this life and the next. In Koran by Heart, a young ten year old scholar earns a place in the Islamic world’s oldest Qur’an memorization contest.

Scheduled during Ramadan, the two week event is both grueling and exhilarating. The competitors adhere to the practice of daytime fasting prescribed for the holiest month of the Muslim calendar, and the rounds sometimes go well past midnight. The boys and girls recite before audiences of clergy and family members. The finals are broadcast on Egyptian national television.

This film will be followed by a discussion led by DSU Visiting Professor, Shadman Bashir.

The film will be followed by a discussion led by Andrew Kosorok.

Christina schultz is the vice President of institutional advancement at dixie state university and executive director of doCutah.

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

Thursday, October 30, 2014 Islamic Art: Mirror of the Invisible World (in partnership with DOCUTAH).

This film takes audiences on an epic journey across nine countries and more than 1,400 years of history. It explores the richness of Islamic art from great ornamental palaces and the play of light in monumental mosques to the exquisite beauty of ceramics, carved boxes paintings, and metal work. It revels in the use of color and finds commonalities in a shared artistic heritage with the West and East. The film also examines the unique ways in which Islamic art turns calligraphy and the written word into masterpieces and develops water into an expressive, useful art form.

39

Let It Go

by CharLene PauL It started early, before the sun was up, and had ravaged the west side of the old building before a neighbor noticed and called 911. By six o’clock in the morning, phones were ringing and texts were flying as news of the fire spread like, well, wildfire.

I head to work at the high school early so I can stop and get a good look. The flames have fully engulfed the south annex and quickly spread to the north. They lap up the sides of the steeple turning the white bricks that form its foundation black with soot.

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

Emergency personnel shout orders while townspeople gather holding hands and weeping. Firefighters perched on ladders extended high into the sky while additional firefighters on the ground spray massive streams of water as they try to bring the fire under control, but the flames continue to dance.

Emergency vehicles with their lights flashing red and blue against the clear morning sky, stand in vigil.

40

As I watch, I recall the history of this old church. In the 1940s, the people in our town needed a church. The cost was ten thousand dollars and there were only about thirty families to shoulder the burden. The people were not wealthy; they were farmers and dairy men, laborers and teachers, mothers and grandmothers. But they were determined to have a church, and they were willing to do anything to make that dream a reality, including donating one or two days a week to work on the building. They went to work raising what money they could and making the bricks they needed, all thirty-five thousand of them. Old men who were young boys back then talk about Friday afternoons spent removing cured bricks from their molds and then cleaning and scraping the rough edges and stacking them in the yard. Saturdays were spent pouring cement into molds and spreading them out so the bricks could cure during the week.

The fire is out by the time school is over. I drive past the church and then turn around and park in front and look at

the debris. The records and historical books that chronicle the past 70 years, the extensive music collection, the organ and grand piano are all part of the ashes and rubble – they are gone, simply gone. (I would later learn that the records and historical books had somehow been spared from the destruction.)

As we meet the following week for church, I am angry at all we have lost. But what I learn that day changes my thinking and changes my life. Those people who gave so much of themselves so they could have a church are saddened as they speak of the fire and share their stories, but there is hope in their eyes. They talk about cleaning up the ruins and building a new and better building. They aren’t stuck in what might have been, they are energized by what will be.

The title of a song from the Disney movie Frozen teaches the lesson I learned from those dedicated people, “Let It Go”. One of the hardest lessons of life is letting go; we fight to hold on and we fight to let go. Life is too short to argue and fight with the past. Finding the courage to let go of what can’t be changed is one of the greatest blessings we can give ourselves and those we love. Mistakes will be made, hardships will be experienced, betrayal and loss will happen.

Let It Go.

Charlene describes herself as, “Pollyanna with a side of Eeyore. She is the owner of Proof It Up, a proofreading service.

Spotlight on:

Making the Difference – Southern Utah Volunteers Giving Back to the Community – We Love Brad Hafen

BY DAWN MCLAIN The Southern Utah community is known for their generosity and dedication. I have the distinct pleasure of working with several nonprofits, and I am always amazed at the sheer size of the volunteer pool in our area. In fact, research from the Corporation for National & Community Services shows that 43.8% of Utah’s population regularly participates in volunteerism. Nationally, the average is only 26.5% which speaks loudly to the level of local engagement we appreciate.

Volunteers in our community help organizations meet critical needs with more than 165.5 million (yes, million!) hours of service in Utah, representing $3.7 billion (yes, billion!!) dollars of service contributed.

These are some pretty impressive numbers, but then again, Southern Utah residents are pretty impressive people.

resources for physical and cognitive growth. The Friends of TLC is a nonprofit which was organized as the fundraising arm for The Learning Center. I have worked with TLC for years and really enjoy my work with them. I was President of the Board for six years, and was also President of the Friends of TLC.

VOSU: I know the Learning Center for Families and The Friends of TLC provide several different programs and truly support the families they work with in every way.

BH: They really do. As their programs and services have expanded over the years, so has their team and the number of families they serve. During my tenure as President of the Friends of TLC, I was instrumental in raising funds and coordinating the construction of the new 20,000 square foot facility. That has been one of the most gratifying things I have accomplished.

VOSU: What first sparked your interest in TLC and other

VOSU: I know you are involved in many organizations, but there is one you have worked with for many years.

BH: I am heavily involved with The Learning Center for Families and The Friends of TLC and have been for 17 years and counting! The Learning Center for Families is a nonprofit organization which works with the families of developmentally challenged children under the age of three to provide

nonprofits in our area?

BH: I was born and raised in Southern Utah which means I have grown up along with our community. As a native you feel a strong sense of community awareness, especially in an area which has experienced the growth we have had. New needs and services present a number of opportunities to serve. Fortunately for me I have had the pleasure of working with several organizations over the years. Some of the service opportunities I have had are: • • • • • •

President of the Snow Canyon Little League - 1987-91, building new ball fields President of Santa Clara Kiwanis Club St. George Chamber of Commerce Member – Also a Sunshiner.

President of The Sunshiners - 1998 President of the Board for The Learning Center for Families President of The Friends of TLC

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

Writing for View on Southern Utah Magazine, I feel blessed to have the opportunity to meet many volunteers that work tirelessly to ensure vital programs and services are available to those in need. This issue VOSU will be highlighting Brad Hafen, owner of Hafen Insurance. Brad is a committee member for the Southern Utah Nonprofits Association and is always the first to raise his hand when the team or one of our members is looking for help.

41

“brad hafen has been selflessly volunteering his time, talents and resources to the Learning Center for families since 1994. he has served on our board of directors where he was president from 1998 through 2006. during brad’s stewardship, our budget grew from from $300,000 annually to $1.6 million.

When brad’s tenure on the board was up, he went on to join the friends of tLC, an organization that provides funding for unmet needs of the Learning Center. it was through brad’s tireless effort that the new tLC center was built in st. george. although brad has since left the friend’s foundation, he has not left tLC. he continues to be our community booster representing us at the utah head start association. brad’s generous support of our organization has allowed us to help many thousands of vulnerable infants and toddlers in our community.” – Debbie Justice, Executive Director, The Learning Center for Families.

•

• • • •

Olympic Torch Committee Member – 2002 A once in a lifetime opportunity! I ran the torch through our community and served as a volunteer for the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City.

Utah Head Start Friend Volunteer of the Year 2010 Head Start Region 8 Board Member - Representing five states Annual Volunteer for the Huntsman World Senior Games - Each year I help seed the softball teams.

Utah Nonprofits Association – Southern Utah Committee Member

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

I believe we truly are our brother’s keepers and this is how we do it. I was raised giving back, and I believe in it wholeheartedly.

42

VOSU: Wow! That is a lot of service! I am not sure anyone can keep up with you, especially given that you own a successful business locally. Tell our readers how they can get involved in one of your favorites causes.

BH: It’s hard to pick! I would have to choose TLC. My initial contact with The Learning Center was as their insurance agent. As that relationship developed, I found I was able to serve their needs in other capacities. What started as a sales relationship quickly grew into something much bigger. The work they do is so important and has so much impact on the families they serve. I found that this was something I was truly passionate about. It is a relationship that grew over time and continues to grow even now. It’s all about the people and the relationships.

VOSU: Working with you on the UNA team, I am always amazed that you have time outside of volunteerism to work.

BH: Life can get hectic that’s for sure. Over the years I have been able to juggle many roles, including entrepreneur. I am the owner of Hafen Insurance Agency and have been for over 25 years.

VOSU: Does your company focus on philanthropy as well?

BH: Yes, in addition to helping raise funds for the causes I’ve already mentioned, we also contribute to a variety of other organizations.

born and raised in southern utah, brad has a deep love for our community. he and his wife, mary Jo, live in santa Clara and are the parents of seven children and 21 grand children which are their number one priority. he can be reached at hafen insurance at 435-628-1921 monday through friday. When he is not busy working or volunteering, he enjoys spending time at his grandchildren’s various activities or relaxing at the family cabin.

Why I Love

Southern Utah

VOSU: What is your philosophy in terms of community support?

BH: Support comes in many forms. Nonprofits can always use financial support, but that may not be possible for everyone. It is equally as important to lend your time and talents. There are plenty of needs out there just waiting for volunteers to fill them.

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

BH: The Friends of TLC sponsors an annual 5K fundraiser known as the Run 4 Kids each spring. This year’s event is over, but there’s no time like the present to start planning for next year!

VOSU: What else would you like to share with our readers?

Well said Brad!

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

BH: There are many nonprofits in our area that can use help.

If you have the time, get involved. A great community doesn’t just happen. It happens when good people work together for a common goal. It takes stepping outside your comfort zone.

Southern Utah is one of the most treasured places in the country and I am glad to call it my home. Having grown up here I realize that it is an ideal place to raise a family because of great education, recreational activities, beautiful open spaces, and a safe family friendly environment.

I hope people recognize that Southern Utah is also an ideal place to build a business, get an education, retire, or just have fun. Staying in Southern Utah after perusing my education meant I could build my own business and create something that could thrive and flourish in a beautiful community. With a strong educated work force and growing population, businesses can do amazing things. One of the things I enjoy about our community is the willingness of small and large organizations to give back to the community and support those that will make this a great place for years to come. I believe that with a great vision for the future, our area will continue to exceed the expectations of those that visit and that is why I love Southern Utah.

– Matt Gubler

43

Coming Soon . . .

to a theater near you!!

by Ken CooK

Last year’s festival was such a success that the second Mesquite ‘Best of Fest’ Film Festival will kick-off on Tuesday, September 9th, at Redd Hills Cinema. This year’s film festival will be bigger and better than last year, having expanded to four nights and showing twelve feature films and nine short films.

Ernie Hoffman, Manager at Redd Hills Cinema, has graciously donated the entire theater for the festival, so films can be shown at multiple times on multiple screens, allowing festival goers to see as many films as they would like.

Opening night will include a cocktail and appetizer reception, meet and greet festival introduction, and the premier of a film that will be of special interest to area residents. The film is entitled ‘My Father’s Highway’, and is the story of the construction of the most expensive section of Interstate highway in the United States……..the I-15 stretch running through the Virgin River Gorge! Yes, the road was actually finished long ago, and the recent repair and reconstruction was anticipated nearly 50 years ago when the road was first completed.

A festival program is available at the Eureka Casino and at Redd Hills Cinema. The program describes each of the films and indicates show times. The program is also available online at www.eurekacommunityinitiative.com.

Please remember that 100% of all sales will benefit the ‘Mesquite Reads’ program! The summer reading program completed its first session and was a successful collaboration between the Eureka Community Initiative, the Virgin Valley Elementary School and Mesquite businesses, charitable organizations and residents.

If you have not attended a film festival, this is a great opportunity to have a true ‘film festival experience’, see interesting films and discuss them with interesting people!

If you attended last year, bring some friends and enhance your experience this year. The ‘Audience Choice Award’ films will be determined by you, the festival goer, through a ballot system. The winning films will be shown on Friday evening, and recognized at the VIP Festival Wrap Party. Your input is appreciated!

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

Lights, Camera…….Action!!!

44

The ‘Best of Fest’ is associated with Dixie State University’s DocUtah film festival. DocUtah will be held September 2nd thru 6th in St. George, Utah. Please visit www.docutah. com for more information about the film festival activities in St. George. As the name implies, Mesquite’s “Best of Fest” will screen some of the best films from DocUtah.

Selecting films for the festival requires a lot of time, patience and knowledge, and fortunately, twenty-four Mesquite residents volunteered to review and evaluate films. The ‘screeners’ worked diligently viewing films as well as driving back and forth to St. George to pick up new films. According to the DocUtah staff, the Mesquite screeners went ‘above and beyond’, and we certainly appreciate their efforts.

I would like to send out a special “Thank you!” to the local residents that had a hand in selecting films for the festival.

Team Leaders: Mariann Estes, Michele Burkett, Linda Rich, Jacqueline Komaschka and Kathie Chatlin.

Team members: Winni Bormans, Linda Faas, David Calmelat, Mark Guertin, Judith Hetem, Sherry Calmelat, Sherry Howie, Norma Sachar, Tom Rich, Bill Howie, Barb King, Gerri Chasko, Lorraine Bellaro, Nancy Ballou, Michael Keister, Marianne Johnstone, Wanda Eckhardt, Alisha Rossell and Eve Mikutowicz.

Ticket prices for the festival are as follows: Individual Tickets, $5 per film and can be purchased at Redd Hills Cinema.

‘Festival Pass’, good for all films, available for $40 A ‘Patron Pass’, good for all films AND the VIP Festival Wrap party, available for $50.

Both passes are a tremendous value and can be purchased at J. S. Merchant at the Eureka.

The festival schedule is as follows: Tuesday, September 9th

6 PM Opening Night Reception and 7PM screening at Redd Hills Cinema

Wednesday, September 10th

Screenings from Noon until 9PM at Redd Hills Cinema

Thursday, September 11th

Screenings from Noon until 9PM at Redd Hills Cinema

Friday, September 12th

‘Audience Choice Award’ Screenings at 5PM and 8PM at Redd Hills Cinema 7PM VIP Festival Wrap Party, Eureka Casino Grand Canyon Room

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

45

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

Why I Love Southern Utah

46

I love Southern Utah because of the large amount of recreational activities that are always waiting for us here right outside our doors. I love wakeboarding, fishing, motorcycles, mountain biking, camping, and canyoneering. All of these activities are available within a short 15 minute drive, or less, from my home. Where else can a person find all of these activities so easily accessible and nestled in such a beautiful city? We have hit the jackpot here my friends! – Gregg McArthur

BUSINESS CARD DIRECTORY Trent Leavitt

Have YOUR voice heard...Vote on Nov. 4, 2014

Owner/Broker

ST. GEORGE REAL ESTATE & PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Advanced Realty is a full-service real estate and property management firm located in St. George, Utah.

Please contact us so we can help you with buying or selling a home, managing a property, or even self storage.

Office: 435-674-4343 E-mail: advanced@infowest.com 1156 E. 700 S. Ste 1, St. George, UT 84790

435.879.1558

www.dorothyforhd74.com

3

Best Selling Author

Nikk Zorbas Speaker, Self-Development Coach & Trainer

DISCOVER YOUR POWER! Practical, Yet Powerful Strategies for the Success of Your Organization To Book Nikk Visit: www.DiscoveringThePowerOfYou.com 702.267.7175

Rob Krieger Rob Krieger Rob Krieger Rob Krieger Rob Krieger Director of Instruction Director of Instruction

Director of Instruction Director ofInstruction Instruction 1871 W. Canyon View Dr. 1871 W.W. Canyon View Director of 1871 Canyon View Dr. Dr. 1871 W.Canyon Canyon View Dr. St. George, UT View 84770 W. St.1871 George, UT St. George, UT84770 84770 Dr. St. George,UT UT84770 84770 O-435-986-5096 C-440-339-1183 St. George, O-435-986-5096 O-435-986-5096 C-440-339-1183 C-440-339-1183 O-435-986-5096 rob@sgugolf.comC-440-339-1183 O-435-986-5096 rob@sgugolf.comC-440-339-1183 rob@sgugolf.com rob@sgugolf.com www.stgeorgegolfinstruction.com rob@sgugolf.com www.stgeorgegolfinstruction.com www.stgeorgegolfinstruction.com www.stgeorgegolfinstruction.com www.stgeorgegolfinstruction.com

Serving Southern Utah and Mesquite Areas

» Graphic Design » Pagination/Layout

» Company Branding » Marketing & Printing

CREATIVELY MOVING FORWARD STEVEN RUESCH Owner/Designer 702.812.2441 steve@studiose7en.com

www.viewonsouthernutah.com

Professional Graphic Design Studio

47

- SAVE THE DATE Tuesday, September 9th Festival Kick-off at Redd Hills Cinema

790 W Pioneer Blvd • Mesquite

Wednesday - Friday, September 10th - 12th Feature Films at Redd Hills Cinema

790 W Pioneer Blvd • Mesquite

Friday, September 12th VIP Festival Wrap Party! at the Eureka Casino Resort

Grand Canyon Ballroom • 275 Mesa Blvd • Mesquite

5 PER FILM • $40 FESTIVAL PASS (ALL FILMS ) $ 50 PATRON PASS (ALL FILMS & “IT’S A WRAP PARTY”) $

Passes available at J.S. Merchant in the Eureka.

Additional info at www.EurekaCommunityInitiative.com 100% of ticket sales to benefit Mesquite Reads.

Cultural Arts Celebrity Concert Series SEASON TICKETS ON SALE NOW World-Class Performances

October 2014-March 2015

SEASON TICKET HOLDERS

SAVE 27% OFF THE REGULAR TICKET PRICE!

student productions september – may

FOR TICKETS & SCHEDULE: 436.652.7800

DIXIE STATE UNIVERSITY

www.dixieculturalarts.com • www.dsutix.com