View On Magazine by View On Magazine

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Home &Garden Special Edition

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

magazine July 1 – August 31, 2017 Volume 10 – Issue 4 PUBLISHER & EDITOR Kathy Lee MANAGING EDITOR & CREATIVE DIRECTOR Aloree Smith COPY EDITOR Charlene Paul WRITERS Bryan Baird Todd Bauman Laurel Beesley Keith Buchhalter Mayor H.C. “Dutch” Deutschlander Laura Draskovich Donna Eads Linda Faas Suzan Feraco Jyl Hall Jennifer Hammond-Moore Chase Hansen Patty Holden

Helen Houston Celece Krieger Elspeth Kuta Della Lowe Kenzie Lundberg Karen L. Monsen Alexa V. Morgan Laurie Nelson-Barker Paul Noe Adele Park Charlene Paul Kathleen Snow Amber Wilde Lise Wilde

ADVERTISING SALES Kathy Lee ADVERTISING EMAIL ads@ViewOnMagazine.com SUPPORT STAFF Bert Kubica DISTRIBUTION View on Magazine Staff WEB DESIGN Trevor Didriksen PUBLISHED BY View On Magazine, Inc. 742 W. Pioneer Blvd, Suite D Mesquite, NV 89027 Office (702) 346-8439 Fax (702) 346-4955 GENERAL INQUIRIES info@ViewOnMagazine.com ONLINE ViewOnMagazine.com Facebook Twitter

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

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Letter from the Dear Readers,

Like Dorothy told Toto, “There’s no place like home.” And home in the desert in the summer is a wonderfully beautiful place to be. Whether you want to head outdoors and be active, or relax and enjoy a spectacular sunset, you can't beat the desert southwest. In our Home and Garden issue here at View On Magazine, you will find all sorts of new ways to make your home a place of peace and refuge. In the following pages, you will learn what it takes to become a homeowner. You will find tips for home improvements that will turn your house into the home of your dreams. Something as simple as adding a new piece of art here or there, painting a wall, or organizing an out-of-control closet can create a whole new and breathtakingly positive atmosphere. And don’t forget about the yard. A few strategically placed plants, flowers, and shrubs will spruce up your outdoor living space. An open air barbecue is sure to keep your kitchen cool as you cook up yummy, delicious dinners outside. And taking care to clean and refurbish your pool and spa will give your yard a polished finish. We would like to offer our heartfelt appreciation to all of our advertisers and writers for their contributions to this very special issue. Please be sure to visit our advertisers and thank them for making this complimentary publication possible for your enjoyment. Yes, Dorothy was right. There really is no place like home. Sincerely, Kathy Lee Editor-in-Chief

frequent CONTRIBUTORS Laura Draskovich is a NASM Certified Personal Trainer. With more than 15 years in the fitness industry, Laura currently teaches a wide variety of group fitness formats and trains clients at the Mesquite Fitness Club. Originally from the Pacific Northwest, she attended Central Washington University, majoring in Community Health Education. Mother of three, Laura is a national level NPC figure competitor, who is passionate about living a healthy lifestyle and dedicated to reaching goals.

Charlene Paul is the owner of Proof It Up, a proofreading and copy editing company. She lives in southern Nevada with her husband. Their original family of eight has grown into a crew of 25, including 12 of the cutest grandkids on earth. She loves spending time with family and friends, singing, writing, playing the piano and organ, reading, crocheting, sewing, and talking – a lot!

Jennifer Hammond-Moore is a certified IIN Health Coach, the owner of Foodies4Fitness and a Crossfit Level 1 Trainer. After spending her 30s being unhealthy and sick, she decided to take back control of her health. Jennifer has spent the last eight years learning what it takes for her to live her version of a healthy life and finding ways to help others do the same. She can be reached at jenahammond@gmail.com, (435) 862-8116, or www.facebook.com/foodies4fitness.

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

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

Alexa V. Morgan has been working

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

Linda Faas, an eleven year resident of Mesquite, is an unabashed lover of the town, its people, and its beautiful surroundings. She has immersed herself in several of Mesquite’s arts and outdoors organizations. She is a frequent contributor to local and regional publications. Linda and her husband Al are enthusiastic hikers, travelers, and film fans.

frequent CONTRIBUTORS Laurie Nelson-Barker is the owner of Formatian Fitness and Travel Training. She earned a Master’s degree in Health, Physical Education and Recreation and is a Certified Personal Trainer. Laurie has enjoyed over 30 years of conducting fitness training and classes. Email or call her at brtrainers@gmail.com or (435) 574-9362. Visit her website: www.formatianfitness.com. Paul “Dr. Q” Noe has been in the nursery industry for over 50 years, with experience in retail and wholesale sales as well as landscaping, plant maintenance and growing experience. Paul has lived in southern Nevada for 34 years. He became a California Certified Nurseryman in 1968 and a Certified Horticulture Advisor in 1993 by the University of Nevada Cooperative Extension Service.

Donna Eads and her husband moved to Mesquite in 2010 from Palm Desert, California and loves the small town atmosphere. Her writing experience extends from high school and college newspapers to professional manuals as a critical care nurse. Her passion for tennis is evident in her frequent articles for View On Magazine. Dawn McLain is the Owner and President of Write It Up!, a small, fullservice advertising agency based in St. George. Over the past 20 years, the firm has grown to include comprehensive PR and marketing services, as well as media buys, blogging, corporate facilitation and much more. To get in touch with Dawn, email her at dawn@writeituponline.com.

Karen L. Monsen is a freelance writer who lives in St. George, Utah. She covers outdoor topics, nature, science, research, and human impacts. She taught French and Social Studies in public schools, served as a technical training coordinator, and designed and delivered business and technical writing seminars for corporate clients. Elspeth Kuta is the Virgin Valley Heritage Museum Coordinator, where it is her privilege to share local history of Mesquite and surrounding areas with the community and visitors alike. She and the museum strive to bring history to life, and preserve and protect the local tales of yore.

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

Message from the Mayor

Brian Head Town Arts and Crafts Fair, live bands, and our annual pie eating contest. Our firefighters will host the annual Fourth of July Fireman’s Breakfast at the Bristlecone Pavilion that morning, and the festivities will cap off with our dazzling Fourth of July fireworks display. If you have never had the chance to experience our fireworks display, you need to take the drive up the mountain. You will not be disappointed. Brian Head has been on the move with more summer activities and events. At Bristlecone Park, there are a variety of activities, such as paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing, volleyball, basketball, and so much more. You will want to bring the entire family.

rian Head Town is geared up for an exciting summer with family fun adventures and events happening almost every weekend here in Brian Head. This year, our spectacular Independence Day celebrations will include the annual

on August 5 for an exciting day for food, fun, and music. Brian Head also hosts a number of hiking, biking, and ATV trails, so there is something for everyone. We hope to see you soon! Sincerely, H.C. “Dutch” Deutschlander Mayor of Brian Head Town

This year will mark the Fifth Annual Festival of Flavors which hosts great food along with tastings from local Utah breweries, vineyards, and distilleries, as well as live music and local artisan vendors. It will definitely be a great day to be in the cool mountain air. Come join us

Contents

FEATURES

88 66

36 Mojave Metal Works 48 view on DESIGN 66 88 view on OUTDOORS

view on CHARITY

Custom Metal Art

Mix It Up with Mid-Century Modern

Flower Power Festival & Medicinal Plants

cover photo courtesy of The Reserve

Olive's Dream Honoring Utah's Pioneer Legacy

Contents

VIEW ON 12 STRONG WOMEN 14 TRAVEL 22 DIY 30 EDUCATION 42 FITNESS 56 FINANCE 64 THE ARTS 74 BUSINESS 76 HEALTHY LIFESTYLE 86 GARDENING 94 ENERGY 98 INSPIRATION The Family Picture

Strong Women of Mesquite Bunny Wiseman

Exporing New Zealand with Mary

My Desert Garden Adventure

Make Dixie Your Summer Destination

Partnering Up for Fitness

How to Play the Stock Market with No Risk

ARTÃ© Gallery

Even Stevens Eat to Give

My Love of Gardening

Why Organic Mulch Is So Important

Make the Most of Ceiling Fans

76 30

Kanab

Why I Love I

was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, but grew up mostly in Santa Cruz, California with my seven siblings. Our family moved back to Utah, and in one crazy year I went from surfboarding in California to playing football for the Kanab High School Cowboys.

After high school, I returned to California and completed my Master Music Composition degree. For years afterward, I worked as a rock ‘n’ roll musician out of Los Angeles, and even went to Helsinki, Finland to teach at the Helsinki Pop and Jazz Conservatory. Returning from Finland, I came back to visit my mother in Kanab and decided to stay. Kanab is the most beautiful, quiet, and inspiring place. I have gone from being a rock ‘n’ roll musician to being a park ranger for the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, a real shift in my life. My wife and I run a little Bed and Breakfast here in Kanab, and together we are living the good life: Good job, good wife, and a good home with a large garden, orchard, and all our rescue animals, Dirty-Face Kirby, O’No Jacob, Black Pearl, and Shanti-Deva. We built a traditional Finnish sauna, and there are also ponds on our high-desert property. Every year the garden gets bigger and better, and my wife says more challenging. What more could a person want? As a Buddhist, I believe this is the perfect place to live for meditation, discovering peace, and enjoying growth. My wife reminds me that when I met her here, I said that if life got any brighter I would be wearing sunglasses all the time. Guess I’d better invest in a few good pairs of shades.

Mesquite

~ Russell Beesley

Why I Love W

e moved to Mesquite about five years ago from the Salt Lake area for my husband's job. We had the option of living in Las Vegas or Mesquite, and we thought Mesquite would fit the needs of our family better. We have the luxury of being close to St. George and Las Vegas if we want to head to the big city. We love the genuinely kind people that we have met here. We love the diversity that Mesquite provides, people from different races, cultures, age groups, and religions. The small town gives our kids the opportunity to participate and excel at whatever sport or extracurricular activity they choose. We hope to be a part of the continued growth and the flourishing community that we have come to call our home. ~ Michelle Liti

Why I Love Moapa Valley T

he number one reason I love Moapa Valley would have to be the weather. More specifically, the heat of our summers. Okay, all joking aside, Moapa Valley is a pretty great place to live. My husband and I both grew up in Moapa Valley, and knew we wanted to raise our family here. There is so much to do, and most of it doesn’t cost a cent. Just this week, we enjoyed outings on our Ranger and on our four-wheelers. We played at the sand dunes, carved our names in the sandstone wall, played in the tunnel under the freeway, and splashed and swam in the Muddy River. We play hard and sleep well. This is a tight-knit community, and the love and support we receive here gives us a sense of safety and serenity. I love knowing there are others watching over my children. Yeah, the summer heat can be pretty brutal, but life in Moapa Valley still can’t be beat. ~ Emily Leavitt

Why I Love St . George I

am what they refer to in New York as a saddle baby, born in New York City and raised with one foot in New York and the other in New Jersey. I lived in Chicago for nine years, and graduated from School of Art Institute of Chicago, SAIC. My husband, Charles, and I came here on vacation in 2012 and fell in love with the area. We went home, packed, and moved to our new home in the desert. I adore the mountains and the small-town feel. I still can’t believe the amazing weather; spring is my favorite. I love the gorgeous, sunny, warm days, and the cool nights. It’s perfect for hiking, and riding my motorcycle through Zion and Springdale. A road trip in any direction is a picturesque adventure, beautiful and inspiring. St. George is an amazingly peaceful place. It is the perfect community to raise a family. And for the artist, the scenic views of red bluffs, towering mountains, and diverse terrains are incredible backdrops. Living in St. George has inspired me to be a social entrepreneur with the aim of solving social problems to effect social change, and to start more than one business. Creative Art Spa is my latest creation, and Creative Well Design & My Quint*Essential Life is the other. My journey to St. George from the big city has definitely been an adventure. ~ Elie Gunther

view on INSPIRATION

The Family Picture

by Charlene Paul

efore marriage and children, I had my life perfectly planned. I would graduate from college, teach high school English, and marry the man of my dreams. We would have four well-behaved children, a neat and tidy home, and dinner would be served at six each evening. Laughter, jokes, board games, and popcorn would be part of our weekly family nights. Sunday clothes would be neatly pressed, and socks would always match. I would be a modern-day Mary Poppins: practically perfect in every way. And then I met the man of my dreams—in the neighbor’s backyard. We fell in love, got married, and welcomed four sons and two daughters into our family. Our home was not perpetually organized, and sometimes dinner was late. Our weekly

family nights frequently seemed to be planned by Lucifer himself, and board games rarely elicited laughter and jokes, except the ones aimed at those who were losing. Sunday rumple was our Sabbath day fashion statement, and mismatched socks beat no socks at all. So much for Mary Poppins.

when our third son was only a few weeks old threatened to send the photographer to the funny farm. He gave his best effort to get the baby to open his eyes, but that precious bundle was fast asleep, and not even true love’s kiss could coax him awake. Today it is one of our favorites.

But gazing at our family pictures, a person might jump to the conclusion that the Paul family was, indeed, practically perfect in every way. Clean shirts, combed hair, and toothy grins adorn our living room walls, but a closer look shines a different light on our normal, picture-perfect family.

And then there is the picture with our scowling fourth son. At two years old, he was not happy with his cute little blue bow tie. Actually, he was not all that keen on the entire outfit of blue linen lederhosen shorts and Little Lord Fauntleroy knee socks. We lovingly refer to that one as our Grumpy Ben picture.

Take our first family picture together. Okay, that one went pretty well. No major upsets, no minor mishaps. But the family picture

One year, I sewed western shirts for my husband and our four boys, and cute matching outfits for our little girls. I wore a

coordinating blouse and denim skirt. I was so proud. My husband confessed a few years ago, though, that he and the older boys were less than enthused. He warned them to smile and act like they loved their shirts. I was a little devastated. Another year, everyone received matching warm-up suits for Christmas—perfect for a family picture. The boys were older and much more boisterous about a family picture on location in the desert in June. (We put it off for six months so the little girls could grow into their warm-ups.) But we persevered. We asked the photographer to photograph each child separately, and when we got those shots back, we realized our oldest daughter’s hair was the same color as the tumbleweed behind her. It gave her that I-stuckmy-finger-in-the toaster look. For the family pose, our oldest son encouraged the younger three to smile for the camera. Imagine my surprise when I learned that was code for moon the camera man! I was mortified. Thank goodness the photographer chose not to snap that shot. After several minutes of uncontrolled laughter and very controlled threats, the photography session was finished. Each picture, in turn, has a story of its very own. There is the wedding picture with our second son barely eking out some semblance of a grin because we threatened to withhold cake unless he smiled. There is the year my husband decided to grow a mustache, not his best look.

Yes, before marriage and children, I knew how my life would play out. But I am pleased it went its own way, no perfection, no pretense, and no Mary Poppins. Our family pictures do not tell the whole story, but the stories need to be shared. If only to let mothers know the family picture does not need to be perfectly staged. It is okay to turn their baby’s onesie backward to hide spit up, or smile after screeching to grin and look happy, or to not have matching shirts. They do not have to strive for normal because the only normal is the setting on their dryer.V

But a hundred years from now, people looking at our pictures might have the mistaken notion that we were a nice, normal family, and by normal, I mean perfect. I do not want that notion to be put in anyone’s head. We are a normal family, and by normal, I mean slightly off center. In fact, as I am writing this, we are on our yearly family trip to Ogden, Utah for the Ogden Marathon. Twenty-one of us are housed in a beautiful condominium. I am in the upstairs bedroom trying to concentrate while listening to the chatter and noise downstairs. I visualize the picture that would accurately capture this moment. Leland’s lips are blue from the salt water taffy I bribed him with to take a nap. The twins are in their swimming suits and their wispy blonde hair is a mass of wet knots. The baby is snuggled in Aunt Catherine’s arms, and Aunt Catherine is gazing lovingly at her. Emily is concerned that her barely noticeable zit is the size of a dinner plate, and Heidi’s eyes are drooping from lack of sleep. Chantz’s shirt is unbuttoned and untucked, Ben is not wearing a shirt, Dallas is in sweatpants, Jaycie’s face is freshly scrubbed, and the boys' faces need to be scrubbed. If we lined everyone up for the family picture today, there would be fingers in noses, tears, tongues sticking out, puzzled looks, and closed eyes. Nothing would match, and Adam would be making everyone laugh. In other words, it would be the perfect snapshot of my nice, normal clan.

view on STRONG WOMEN

Strong Women of Mesquite be an artist. She had a Katy Keene Paper Doll book, and Katy was her constant companion. Bunny would draw and color clothes on scraps of paper for Katy, and they were stored and treasured in a small cardboard box. She was a quiet, insecure child making average grades after learning that being above or below normal brought unwanted attention.

unny Wiseman has moved from place to place most of her life. She began life in Brigham City, Utah, and then at the tender age of two weeks her military family pulled up stakes and moved to the great country of Newfoundland. After two years, the family, with Bunny and her younger brother, were again transferred. The next fourteen years were spent moving about every two years. From the east coast to the west coast, she traveled all over the country. One of the interesting places Bunny lived was Anchorage Alaska. While there, she completed first and second grade, and became a pretty good figure skater on a homemade skating rink outside her back door. If you ask Bunny what she wanted to do as a child, she will tell you she yearned to

When she was fourteen years old, Bunnyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s father died from lung cancer. The family then moved to a small town in Missouri, and two years later her mother died. At age sixteen, a young man came along who was willing to take not only a new wife, but her younger brother as well, so she married him. Since he was in the Army, the new little family headed off to Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Never living in one place long enough to actually focus on a career, Bunny managed to take and finish a few college courses. Along the way, three babies arrived, two boys, Tony and Tracy, and their sister, Leslie in the middle. During the next twenty-two years, the family lived in many interesting places, with one long tour of three years in Panama. The travel ended when Bunny landed in Salt Lake City, and she and her husband divorced. During that time, Bunny worked at a car dealership as a salesperson. Luckily, the management of the store saw something in her and offered to send her to school to become a finance manager. It turned out to be a job filled with many hard knocks, but with three children at home, the money was greatly needed. She did what she had to do in order to survive, in spite of a lack of education, no real

job experience, and a rather introverted personality. Fast forward, and along comes Mike, the best desk manager in the business, as well being a kind and loving person. She had found her hero and they were soon married. Mike had custody of his two children, and with Bunnyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s three children, they blended a large and interesting family. However, with both of them working at the car dealership, putting in long hours, and dealing with occasionally conflicting schedules, they lived like ships passing in the night. But one of them was always home with the kids. In 1999, Bunny saw an ad on TV for the CasaBlanca Resort and Casino in Mesquite. Mike, being an avid golfer, agreed to spend Three Glorious Days and Two Nights in Mesquite. While driving around town that weekend, they found and bought a house in Sunset Greens. The weather was over one hundred degrees that day, but after years of shoveling snow around hundreds of cars in Salt Lake, they fell in love with the southern Nevada weather. Bunny spent the next few years driving back and forth from Salt Lake to the new house. In 2007, it was finally time to sell the big house in Salt Lake, along with everything in it, and make the move to Mesquite. Mike was on the golf course immediately, and Bunny quickly became involved in advocating for all of the areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s amazing arts organizations. The first day Bunny arrived in Mesquite, she went into the Mesquite Fine Arts Gallery where she met Gail Ashdown. She

Bunny Wiseman told Gail what she had been doing for the past seventeen years, and Gail picked up the phone and called Kathleen Birkholz of the Virgin Valley Artist Association, VVAA. Bunny was hired on the spot as treasurer for the VVAA. She later served a term as VVAA President. She feels her greatest accomplishment during the ten years she served on the VVAA board was building the much needed classroom located beside the Fine Arts Gallery. VVAA is now able to offer classes for all Mesquite residents at very reasonable prices. Bunny also became involved with the Virgin Valley Theatre Group as president and participating in all aspects of running a theater, being on stage, and even handling some of the technical aspects of putting on a show. The Chamber of Commerce was looking for some fresh, new ideas, so Jim Wilson took Bunny aside to tell her she was needed on the board. In order to fully participate in Chamber activities and duties, Bunny needed to be on the executive committee, so she was appointed as secretary to the board. There was work to be done advocating for the arts in Mesquite. Greater Mesquite Arts Foundation, GMAF, works tirelessly to raise funds to support all of the arts organizations in Mesquite. In 2015, she was the Hearts for the Arts honoree. Bunny has risen through the ranks of GMAF, and is currently the president of the organization. She is the facilitator of the Arts Roundtable where presidents of all the arts associated organizations gather monthly to work together to help make Mesquite a well-rounded community.

Through an agreement with the city, she is also the manager of the Mesquite Community Theatre, along with Bob Nelson. In 2011, Jean Watkins flattered Bunny and convinced her to run for Ms. Senior Mesquite. This was a major transition in her life. Standing on stage, holding a microphone, dancing, and painting a picture in front of Mayor Al Litman of Mesquite presents Bunny with the 2016 Distinguished Citizen of the Year award the audience brought her out of her inclination to hide in 2016, and was the Grand Marshall for the the shadows. She was runner-up in that Mesquite Days Parade this year. pageant, and went on to hold positions with the pageant as Contestant Mum Current passions in Bunnyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life include and Assistant Director of the pageants. pickleball at the Mesquite Recreation She has also been a judge for the Miss Center, as well as her art. Her favorite time Mesquite Pageant. of the week is Monday afternoon when she teaches her drawing class at the Mesquite Showgirls came along as an Mesquite Arts Center. She claims many of exciting new nonprofit organization with her students are better artists than she is, fun girls and feathers. Dress-up combined but she admits that is partly because she with providing wonderful services for is a pretty good teacher. organizations in Mesquite has been one of the highlights of Bunnyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life. You can Bunny has spoken many times to service find the Showgirls at business openings, groups explaining the value of the arts Chamber events, and other community in Mesquite. She has worked tirelessly affairs . for all of the arts in Mesquite. She says she works more hours volunteering than Along the way, Bunny has served on she did when she was employed. She is several committees at the city level. She convinced that all forms of art are major is a member of the Mesquite Master Plan, building blocks necessary to make and Bicycle Mesquite, and Mesquite Reads, keep our community alive and well. working with Gerri Chasko and the Eureka Casino. She served on the committee to It would take a lot to keep up with Bunny write and submit a city charter to the state and all her accomplishments. She has legislature. She even entered the race for done so much for Mesquite, and is always City Council. She has been honored as willing to do more. We think of her as our the Distinguished Citizen of the Year for very own Energizer Bunny. V

Custom Outdoor

Barbecues and Kitchens story and photos submitted by Kokopelli Landscaping

ooking outdoors has become a very popular trend in the United States, and particularly in the southwest. Homeowners are learning the joys and advantages of outdoor kitchens at home. Have you ever considered the benefits of adding an outdoor kitchen to your home? Whether you are building a new home or simply making better use of your existing space, creating a space to cook outdoors is a good investment. Here are a few advantages of an outdoor kitchen: • A great way to entertain. Having a perfect place for entertaining is probably the greatest benefit of an outdoor kitchen. When food is grilled on the patio, guests can gather around and socialize as it is being prepared. Enhance the area by adding outdoor furniture, string lights, and mood music. • Adds value to your home. Outdoor kitchens have a high rate of return on your investment. They dress up the backyard and realtors love to show homes with added upgrades like this. When built with quality materials, your outdoor kitchen will provide a lifetime of enjoyment. Most barbecue grills and outdoor appliances are manufactured from stainless steel, and are designed for tough weather conditions. • Makes cooking simpler and keeps odors outside. Cooking outdoors eliminates smoke and odors, as well as added

heat inside your home. Most outdoor kitchens include such components as beverage coolers and side burners. Everything you need for a successful barbecue or party is at your fingertips and eliminates repeated trips back into the house. • Extends your living space. Rather than adding a room to extend your household space, simply use an outdoor kitchen to incorporate the existing space on your patio or back porch. It will become a gathering place for family and friends for special occasions or daily living. To have an outdoor kitchen that is functional and useful for years to come, spend a little time considering such things as placement for ventilation, and wind and sun direction to achieve the right setup for you. At Kokopelli Landscaping, we have helped many families add an outdoor kitchen that fits their needs and lifestyle. Come in today and meet with one of our experts who will provide a free estimate for the design that will make your dreams a reality. V For more information on outdoor kitchens, call Kokopelli Landscaping at (702) 346-2332, or visit them at kokopellilandscaping.com.

Looking to Buy a Home? Start Here. by Chase Hansen

enjamin Franklin once said, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” This is true when you are considering buying a home. Serious buyers should start the process in their lender’s office and not on Zillow or at an open house. Potential homebuyers benefit in a lot of ways by speaking with a lender first and getting pre-qualified. A prequalified or preapproved buyer has more leverage when making an offer than someone who has not spoken with a lender. A good lender can explain what programs and options are available to the borrower, and tailor those options to their specific needs. Lenders will check credit to assure there are no alerts or problems that might be an issue. The buyer will then find out the maximum price for which they may qualify, giving them realistic goals about pricing. Many clients find they qualify for more than they want to pay monthly, and many clients need to do some work before they can get pre-qualified. A good lender can help answer all your questions and set you on the right path to homeownership.

Here are some important tips when preparing to buy a house: • Find a lender that puts you at ease. Most importantly, find a lender you are comfortable speaking with, and who will really listen to your needs and what you are trying to accomplish. One loan program does not fit all, so understanding what your ultimate goal is helps a lot in determining what program fits you best. A good lender asks the right questions, listens to the answers, and then presents the best options for each client. • Minimize debt. If you are shopping for a home, do not go out and buy a new car or open new lines of credit beforehand. One of the biggest determining factors in qualifying for a loan is your debt-to-income, DTI, ratio which is determined by taking the total housing expense, including the mortgage payment, property taxes, homeowners insurance, and HOA dues, and dividing that by your total monthly income. This is your front-end DTI ratio. Your back-end DTI ratio is your total housing expense plus all revolving debt, such as loans on

cars, RVs, boats, installment loans, student loans, and credit card balances. If the DTI ratio is too high, it will disqualify you as quickly as anything else. Minimizing outside or personal debt can ultimately help your credit score and you will be able to qualify for more home. â&#x20AC;˘ Start saving now. Having the ability to put money down on a home purchase can open the door to more favorable loan products. Although there are some programs that offer one hundred percent financing, like the incredible VA loan for veterans, most loan options require a down payment. For example, most lenders will require at least five percent down for a conventional loan on a primary residence, and FHA programs require three and a half percent down. USDA loans are a great option with a zero down payment in what are considered more rural areas like Mesquite, Bunkerville, Moapa Valley, and Beaver Dam. But they have tighter restrictions on DTI ratios than Conventional, FHA, or VA loans. Even if you choose a product with no money down lenders like to see some assets saved up in reserves. â&#x20AC;˘ Get the most out of your credit score. Your credit score is a big factor in qualifying for a home loan. A low credit score can disqualify you right out of the gate. A great credit score can qualify you for the best rates and pricing. Your lender can look at your credit score and, if need be, can suggest ways to help improve your credit score to help you qualify. Simple things like paying down your credit cards but keeping a small balance can help quickly improve credit. Once again, a lender will be able to analyze your credit and maximize your credit score. V Call our team at Cherry Creek Mortgage. We serve Arizona, Nevada, Utah, and Wyoming. Visit Cherry Creek in St. George at 1224 S. River Rd. A106 or call (435) 674-9200. Visit Chase Hansen, Loan Originator, NMLS # 1321014 at Cherry Creek in Mesquite, 340 Falcon Ridge Pkwy. Bldg. 100, or call (702) 345-2820.

ExploringNew Zealand view on TRAVEL

by Celece Krieger

ary Curtis, a travel consultant in my office, recently returned from an incredible trip to New Zealand. She was in New Zealand inspecting hotels and attractions for a tour she is escorting in April 2018. I could not wait to interview her for this column and share her experience. Where did you go and when? I just returned from New Zealand during the first week of May. The weather was wonderful, a little chillier than home because it is their fall, but this also meant their busy tourist season was over. The roads were not busy, and we did not have to deal with too many crowds.

with Mary

Have you been to the area before? I have never been there before, and it wasâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and still isâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;on my bucket list. I already had plans to go with some of our clients on an escorted trip next spring, and then this opportunity arose for a fast and furious trip to acquaint travel agents with New Zealand. I came back with a different opinion on where I want to take our clients. I originally considered just the South Island, but there are things in Rotorua on the North Island that should not be missed. I cannot wait to go back for more! What type of trip was it? This was an example of what escorted

tours are like. Unlike a cruise experience where you travel with thousands of others, you are traveling with thirty to forty passengers. The transportation is part of the cost of the trip, and some of it is on very comfortable motorcoaches. Flight segments are also included. What were your favorite activities or destinations? I enjoyed being exposed to the Maori cultural experiences provided on the North Island. The Maoris were wonderful and so proud of their heritage. We were treated to an authentic haka type ritual of one tribe welcoming another tribe. It did not look very welcoming!

I also was able to attend a hangi dinner celebration that was incredibly prepared in their traditional way, but served on tables inside. What is a fun fact you learned about the area? I had always heard about New Zealand being a country of adventure, and it certainly is. The Shotover Jet Boat was amazing, and I am so glad I did that. The bungee jumping bridge was closed for the season, so we did not get to see anyone take the plunge. Before the Europeans arrived on the shores of these two islands, there were many species of birds, including the moa which is now extinct. Even the kiwis are having a difficult time surviving while non-native predators are thriving. How was the food? Did you try anything unique? They have fabulous meat pies that are sold everywhere. I split one with one of my companions on the last day of our trip, and it was amazing. I wished I had tried it sooner at one of our lunch stops. Several breeds of sheep are raised all over New Zealand. Some are incredible for their wool and others for their meat. I have never been a fan of lamb, but I had it on three occasions, and I have to say it was wonderful. I do not know if it was just the season, but they served a lot of pumpkin-flavored dishes which were great. The soup was exceptional. Pavlova is their traditional dessert and was served with every meal. It was very tasty, and I am sure I gained a few pounds just from that! Who should take this type of trip? The trip I am hosting next year is the perfect trip for someone who has always wanted to go to Australia and New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;it is a trip of a lifetime. It visits the Great Barrier Reef and the City of Sydney, Australia before going to New Zealand, with multiple nights at each of four cities on both islands. If you are only going to do it once, consider this trip. Any advice for someone considering this trip? I would highly recommend traveling with a group, whether it is a group of friends or strangers, it makes it much more fun. Of

course, it is more comfortable traveling with a tour guide and a group on a motorcoach than trying to drive on your own on the other side of the road.V For more information on Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s escorted tour in 2018, call (435) 628-3636 or email mary@stgeorgetravel.com

Grape arbor behind the Virgin Valley Heritage Museum.

Who Knew Grapes Once Grew Here?

The History of Grapes in Mesquite

by Elspeth Kuta

he early settlers of Virgin Valley, mostly members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, were encouraged by Brigham Young to cultivate cotton and grapes. Over 120 years ago, under the Desert Land Entry Act, 300 acres of land were purchased in what was then Mesquite Flats, and Bishop Edward Bunker, along with nine other men formed a grape farmers cooperative, co-op. Preparing the arid ground for the grapes involved clearing the land of rugged mesquite bush and leveling knolls of sand. Henry Frehner and his sons, Alfred and Joe, rooted 30,000 grapevines along the irrigation ditch bank in Littlefield, Arizona and sold them for a penny and a half each to start the grape farm. Within five years, 120 acres of grapevines had been planted. Three years later, the matured vines were producing grapes. Local legend indicates that in 1906, the sample of seedless raisins from Mesquite that was entered in the fair in San Francisco, California won first place! Samuel Reber, Jr. moved his family to Mesquite in 1914. In 1915, he planted a 3-acre grape vineyard with Thompson Seedless and some Muscat. Both varieties proved to be satisfactory for the production of raisins. When planting the vineyard, he placed 6 foot cedar stakes together with the grapevines in straight rows, 7 feet wide and 6 feet apart. Approximately 700 to 800 vines per acre were planted. Pomegranates were grown on the banks of the ditches to help maintain the integrity of the ditch banks and to provide much needed shade as well as another product to sell.

squash, and other vegetables to help the families through the winter. Later, they were sold country-wide. You may ask what happened to Virgin Valley’s commercially grown grapes. It was not the heat, as one might expect. In 1936, a big freeze killed most of the grape vines, pomegranates, and fig trees growing in the area. Snow was on the ground for almost six weeks. Farmers used an iron railroad rail with a team of horses on each end to pull the frozen grape stumps from the ground. Most were used as fuel in order to bring warmth to the homes in the winter. When the Rebers sold their vineyard, it became known as the Grapevine Villas estate. Sam had a desire to name the streets where his vineyard once grew. If you live on Reber Lane, or a street in Mesquite named after a grape, you now know why. Grapes still grow here. There is a grape arbor in the backyard of the Virgin Valley Heritage Museum, and many Mesquite residents successfully grow grapes. If you are interested in learning more about the history of grapes in the valley, drop by the Virgin Valley Heritage Museum. We are fortunate to have two antique grape stemmers, raisin trays, and of course, photos of the early settlers who worked the land and produced award-winning grapes. V For more information, visit the Virgin Valley Heritage Museum at 35 W. Mesquite Blvd., Mesquite, or call (702) 346-5705. Antique grape stemmers at the Virgin Valley Heritage Museum.

There was a sense of great pride, devotion, and love for the vineyards. Reber, who remembers his mother picking grapes in the fall said, “My uncle used to say, ‘If you can find a weed in my vineyard then you can have it.’” Needless to say, there was never a weed to be found. Old timers remember the delicious golden seedless grapes. They were picked in clusters and put on the trays to dry. When the drying process was complete, they were loaded onto wagons and taken to the packing shed to be run through the stemmer. In the early days of production, these raisins were taken north to trade for potatoes,

Summer Pool Care by Oasis Pool Pros

he intense sun and dry heat of the desert make pool ownership desirable, but also make it a challenge. While water is water no matter what state you live in, pool maintenance considerations are dependent on your location. Our climate and location influence the amount of rain, ambient heat, UV radiation, and even the type of dust and debris that is likely to come blowing over the fence and into the pool. All of this determines how you need to care for your pool. Southern Nevada and southern Utah with their baking sun and dry climate have different challenges than a pool in the midwest or the humid climate of Florida. The first thing to consider is how chlorine affects the water. Because the majority of chlorine leaves the pool through UV exposure and evaporation, our desert days

can conspire to deplete chlorine from your pool in a short time. Chlorine must be added more frequently to compensate; plus higher levels of cyanuric acid should be maintained as well. Cyanuric acid is used as a chlorine stabilizer in swimming pools. It binds to free chlorine and releases it slowly, extending the time needed to deplete each dose of sanitizer. Vanishing Act One of the reasons we long for a dip in the pool on a hot day is how quickly it can cool us down. The extremely low humidity causes the water on your skin to evaporate very quickly, dispersing the heat from your body. The same evaporation we love on our skin also happens to your swimming pool. Leave your pool uncovered, and you can expect to lose about a quarter of an inch of water per day

in the winter, and a half an inch or more of water per day during our three-digit degree summer days. This total water loss can come close to the entire volume of water in your pool over the course of a year. Of course, to keep the pool topped off, fresh water must be added. This can become a problem in our area due to our hard water that is full of minerals which concentrate the amount of calcium, salts, and other dissolved solids in the pool. Calcium is the main concern, and in high concentrations can leave deposits on the plaster, and even in the heater. According to the APSP standard, calcium hardness should be a minimum of 150 ppm, with the ideal being 200 to 400 ppm, and the maximum at 1000 ppm. When calcium

in the Desert levels reach 1000 ppm, it is recommended that you drain and refill your pool. We cannot forget that in this arid region we have a great deal of dust blowing around and settling in our pools. Desert dust is very alkaline and contains a lot of calcium, so as it dissolves in the pool, it increases the poolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s calcium levels and pH. Although all pool owners love to look out at the view of their beautifully sparkling pools, covering your pool will help keep many problems to a minimum and lower maintenance costs. UV Breakdown We all know the impact the desert heat and sun has on materials and equipment. Plastics tend to be particularly susceptible to the UV breakdown the sun causes.

Pool filters, fittings, drain covers, and pool covers can suffer in our relentless sunshine. It is important to routinely check for UV damage and replace components as needed.

which also may result in altered chemistry, including dilution of chlorine and other treatment chemicals. This can result in having to drain your pool to normalize the levels.

Summer temperatures often reach into the hundreds which places high stress on pool pumps. If possible, it is a good idea to run pumps at night when temperatures drop.

Excess rain can also mean problems with algae due to spores being washed into pool water. Some algae strains are more resistant to chlorine than others, making more aggressive treatments necessary.

Desert Rains As desert inhabitants, we know not to complain about rain. But when it comes, it brings many challenges to your pool. MidJuly to mid-August brings a concentrated amount of rain due to the monsoon season. Rain and debris have a big impact on your waterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s chemistry, and rain can cause your pH to drop quickly. High levels of rain in a short time can overflow some pools,

It takes a lot of time and effort to make your pool the blue oasis you desire in our desert climate, but it is definitely worth it.V Oasis Pool Pros can be reached at (702) 907-6651, and can answer any questions or discuss any pool concerns you may have during our hot desert summer.

Picking the Right Exterior Paint

by Bryan Baird

wning a home in the desert, you can be sure of one thing, eventually the harsh desert sun and other elements of our dry climate will wear down any directly exposed painted surfaces. The first thing you will notice is a discoloration or chalking. This also pertains to synthetic stucco surfaces and sidings that are applied with a factory color. This is an oxidization which is primarily caused by UV rays. In most cases with architectural coatings, it cannot be removed and must be painted over. A stucco surface, because of its porosity, can usually be pressure washed to remove the majority of the oxidized coating as well as any loose or peeling paint before it is recoated. Smooth and nonporous surfaces like vinyl or metal siding, need to be cleaned. A commercial detergent, such as trisodium phosphate can be found at paint stores or local hardware stores. The surface will then need to be thoroughly rinsed. Now you are ready for paint! There are several options as to which type of coating to apply on stucco surfaces:

Standard exterior house paint is usually the least expensive, and has a vinyl acrylic binder with extender pigments. This product has less ability to protect against UV rays emitted by the sun, so it oxidizes faster and requires more coats to cover the surface. Acrylic house paint provides longer color retention and adhesion. The binder is one hundred percent acrylic with titanium pigments. This gives the surface a full or heavy-bodied look. Acrylic paints adhere to most surfaces, and are easy to apply. It is a popular coating for any job. Elastomeric paints have been more popular lately to apply on stucco surfaces because they provide excellent waterproofing properties, can tolerate some substrate movement, and their stretchiness allows them to fill or bridge hairline cracks once applied. The paint's durability is longer, has insulating qualities, and most manufacturers offer a longer warranty. Elastomeric paints can be difficult to apply, so hiring a professional for the application of this product is strongly recommended. Elastomeric paint is not recommended for synthetic stucco, however. Synthetic stucco already has

Before Elastomeric

an elastomeric make-up and should be painted over with one hundred percent acrylic paint. Smooth siding surfaces, such as vinyl require a higher quality, one hundred percent acrylic coating. Once the surface is properly prepped, it can be sprayed or brushed. Spraying is recommended to eliminate any running of the paint where the siding is joined and overlapped. Metal sidings require priming before the application of finish paint. Any rust or peeling paint must be thoroughly removed. A metal primer can be used. Once this is done, it can be finished with one hundred percent acrylic enamel paint. Wood siding has various application requirements. A previously painted surface can be cleaned and roughed up with sandpaper to get the best result on applying a finish. Most exterior paints can be used. Wood surfaces must breathe, so it is not recommended to use elastomeric coatings. Vinyl acrylic is self-priming when applied over new wood, so a couple of coats will suffice; however, new cedar may still have pockets of sap that cannot be seen on the surface. If not primed,

After Elastomeric

Vinyl siding before

it can cause bleeding or a stained look through the finish paint that is called tanning. Any stain killing primer can be used before applying the finish coat. The make-up of all exterior coatings and the time of exposure to sunlight will decide how soon oxidization will occur. Also, darker colors will increase the time period of the chalking. Colors like red and blue are notorious for rapid oxidization due to the colorants used, and have been known to start chalking in only a couple of years. The average lifespan of a good acrylic paint on an exterior should be eight to ten years. Most products are warrantied for one or two years, depending on the manufacturer. When considering a professional painting contractor to paint your home, always get three or more bids. Make sure the professional includes the process and type of materials they will be using. Cheapest is not always the best. Be prudent! V For more information, call Baird Painting at (702) 346-1826, or visit them at 621 Hardy Way, Mesquite.

Vinyl Siding After

view on DIY

My Desert Garden Adventure by Jennifer Hammond-Moore y garden adventure has evolved over the last twenty-two years. It has taken that long to figure out how to grow edibles before small desert creatures consume them. Believe me, it has been a long, ongoing battle.

This year, with layers of chicken wire and rabbit fencing to keep creatures at bay, I have created the Fort Knox of gardens! Now the only things I have to worry about are bugs and the sun, right? Soil preparation has always been a secondary concern. How do I grow food in this terrible soil? With a little help from Mr. Google, I have found the perfect method for gardening in our areaâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;trench gardening, with a little adjustment.

I have tried to use the trench method in the past by digging small trenches and filling in the voided area with potting soil and compost. This worked adequately, but my plants were nothing like the beautiful garden photos online and in magazines. Then I found wonderful instructions from the website Instructables. www.instructables.com/id/Making-a-Garden-Bed-in-the-HighDesert/ I applied their suggestion of removing enough soil to insert boards or frames. Knowing the soil would soon become very solid, I prepared the ground with a few amendments. Follow along and you, too, can experience the rewards of a great desert garden.

Items needed: • Straw. Be sure it is weed and pesticide free, and ask if it is organic. You do not want chemicals in your straw; they can be absorbed into your vegetables. • Flattened cardboard boxes. These should have little to no writing or printing on them. Again, you want to keep chemicals out of the soil. • Seeds. Find an online seed chart showing when to plant what in our area. Star Nursery is a great resource for learning what to plant and when. • A garden area. This area should preferably be one that is already fenced in. If there are a lot of birds around, cover the area with chicken wire or bird netting as well. • Rototiller or a good shovel and a bit of time. • Bags of compost. I used three of the three-cubic feet bags to till into the ground. I also added extra to the trenches. • Potting soil. I always pick up a few large bags at Costco as soon as it is on the shelves in the spring. Instructions: 1. Till or dig up the ground in the fall to loosen the soil and mix in manure or compost. I estimated one bag for every 10’ x 15’ area because we have added compost every year for four years, and the soil is now a little more manageable. You may want to add more if you have not worked with your soil before now. If you are going to add manure, do this step at least one to two months before planting to allow the manure to break down in the soil, otherwise you may burn your plants. 2. Water down the area lightly to set the soil. 3. Determine how wide your rows will be. I placed mine three feet apart this year, and I have plenty of room to move throughout the rows for weeding and watering. I made the mistake of planting my zucchini and squash plants too close together, fearing that they would not grow, and now I have a jungle. 4. Dig trenches twelve to fifteen inches wide by the length of the May 7 garden

This method works great if you have water lines that need to be avoided, or you do not want to lean over too far to cultivate the soil. Use the same layering method with straw and soil, but only dig about one-inch lower than the actual box form. row by one and a half to two feet deep. Soil should be placed on either side of the rows to make water wells later. 5. Place cardboard in a single layer on the bottom of the flat trench the entire length of the row. Loosely place straw over the cardboard. 6. Layer soil, compost, and straw until you finish filling in the trench. 7. Place a layer of potting soil down the middle of the finished trench to plant the seeds in. 8. Lightly spray the garden with water to set the soil again. 9. Plant your seeds, or use starter plants down the center of the trenches. I like to plant some starter plants at the front of the row, then plant seeds after that. This varies the harvest of the vegetables. 10. Finally, dig or hoe water channels on each side of the trench. Filling the trenches with water will help get the water lower in the ground. 11. Watch your garden grow!

May 26 garden

I have found that water on the leaves will burn the plants in our hot desert sun. To prevent this, always water in the evening. A slow and low water system works best. By using this trenching method, I have found the roots grow deep to provide a good base for the plants. Just a reminder, I am not an expert. This is just my own DIY. My garden journey has been trial and error. The joy the garden brings Not using layering method

to me, however, is immeasurable. I love to have the grandkids come over and eat spinach and strawberries straight from my garden. Knowing what is and what is not in my food brings me peace of mind. I would love to hear your garden stories and hints for your successful gardening experiences. You can contact me at Moorehammondegg Farm on Facebook. Happy, JOYful gardening!V

Using layering method

Your Home Means So Much More Than its

Purchase Price

by Lisa Wilde

ome is where you relax and celebrate. It’s where you live out your dreams. You know how much it means to you—and that is why you want to make sure you’re as prepared as possible if you have a claim down the road. Sometimes it seems like your home is in a constant state of evolution, doesn’t it? Maybe you have remodeled the kitchen or a bathroom, finished the basement, or added a security system. Perhaps you are working from home, or have other improvement projects on the horizon. The point is, the home you live in today

likely is not the same as the home you bought—and the changes you have made may require adjusting your insurance coverage. Your home evolves. Your homeowners insurance should, too. Here are some key points that need to be reviewed periodically to make sure your home is protected: Replacement Cost When you purchase a homeowners insurance policy, you will make a number of decisions. One of the most important decisions is the amount of coverage which best meets your needs. Understanding

your options will help you make an informed choice that safeguards your home and your family's financial future. Replacement cost is the cost necessary to repair or replace your entire home. When you insure your home for its replacement cost, your insurer will reimburse you for the cost of rebuilding or repairing your home, based on the size and structure that was lost or damaged. Only the cost of the property's structure and its associated systems, fixtures, and finishes will be included in the estimate; land value is included in a home's market value, but should not be included in the amount of insurance you buy.

Deductible Choosing a higher deductible may result in more affordable home insurance. Higher deductibles lower your premium, but increase the amount for which you are responsible if a covered loss occurs. You should decide how much risk are you financially able to assume on your own in order to lower your monthly premium. Personal Liability In certain situations, your homeowners policy could help protect your finances by paying for damages for which you are legally responsible, and at the very least, your legal defense. For example, the policy could help cover legal defense costs if a visitor accidentally gets hurt on your property and takes you to court. It is essential for you to select liability limits high enough to protect your assets. Homeowners Associations If you are a member of a homeowners association, you may not think too much beyond paying your monthly or annual dues. But what happens if a storm sweeps through your area? You may have to pay more to the association than just dues. Many homeowners associations charge loss assessments or fees to pay for a covered property loss, such as damage from a covered storm or other peril, or for a covered liability claim. And if the unexpected happens, association members may share equally in the cost. If you are in an association, it is important to know if you need loss assessments coverage. Discounts There are several discounts offered that you may be eligible for under your homeowners policy. Just a few offered are: home/ auto, security system, and claim free. Every insurance company has different discounts that they offer to remain competitive with each other, so be sure to talk to your agent about any discounts, and which ones you may qualify for. What’s Not Covered? There are causes of loss that most homeowner’s policies do not cover. For example, water damage caused by flood or underground water, liability for business-related activities, liability for intentional injury or property damage, damage caused by earthquake or mudslide. You may want to talk to your agent about a separate earthquake policy. Flood insurance is available through the U.S. Government’s National Flood Insurance Program, NFIP, and can be purchased through most insurance agents, or directly through NFIP’s website. Protect the home you live in today. Make sure your homeowners insurance reflects just how much your home means to you. The easiest way to do this is to meet with your insurance agent for an insurance financial review to discuss all of your coverage options and discounts. V For more information on homeowners insurance, visit Lisa Wilde, State Farm at 355 W. Mesquite Blvd. Ste. D10, or call (702) 346-3333.

Flower Power Festivals & Medicinal Plants

view on OUTDOORS

story and photos by Karen L. Monsen

rom love symbols to healing potions, flowers lift our spirits and mend our bodies. This summer, celebrate Flower Power at Cedar Breaks with a wildflower festival, and pause to appreciate the unique medicinal substances found in plants. Cedar Breaks Wildflowers When spring arrives at high elevations in July, Cedar Breaks celebrates its Annual Wildflower Festival with guided floweridentification walks, family activities, and spectacular sub-Alpine floral displays

set against red sandstone. Generally, a wet winter with snow no later than June followed by summer showers produces good bloom seasons from late June to late August. Sitting above 10,000 feet, wildflowers include Aspen Bluebells, Colorado Columbine, Scarlet Paintbrush, Pacific Aster, Little Sunflowers, Southern Ligusticum, Elkweed, and more.

Cedar Breaks Gilia (Gilia Tridactyla) is an endemic species found nowhere else but Cedar Breaks and Piute County, Utah. Ranger and Cedar Breaks communications

contact, Shannon Eberhard describes this member of the Phlox family as “especially suited to limestone soil and the cold harsh conditions found on the windswept peaks of Cedar Breaks National Monument.” “Because of flowering plants, insects and many other small birds and even mammals have a plentiful variety of foods to select from throughout the warmer seasons,” Eberhard explains. “All these creatures depend on flowering plants to collect sustenance throughout the spring, summer, and fall seasons. As a result,

these well-fed critters offer a variety of food sources for animals higher up on the food chain, such as fox, hawks, weasels, and many more, including humans.” Precipitation levels impact blooms. Eberhard comments. “Winter snow depths have been erratic, and have also been melting sooner than in the past. This may be a result of our average temperatures rising. The last two years nationally have been the warmest in recorded history. Temperatures are now around one to two degrees higher than our historic averages—which doesn’t seem like much, but as a result, our snowpack is melting off sooner and faster. This means spring flooding, drier summers on the mountain, and less runoff throughout the summer to the valley below.” Citizen Science Program Responding to increased visitation and environmental changes, Cedar Breaks is introducing a Citizen Science Program in summer 2017. Volunteers will be able to check out a backpack loaded with tools and instructions for sampling air quality, documenting, and photographing observations to help scientists better understand plant life cycles and animal population changes—including why pika, a small mammal, are disappearing from higher elevations. This volunteer work adds to groups already helping Cedar Breaks monitor forest health, including the Utah Forest Dynamics Plot, affiliated with Utah State University, and the Northern Colorado Plateau Network, an NPS organization that studies air quality, climate, phenology, and landscape dynamics.

Cedar Breaks Columbine closeup.

“

Flowers always make people better, happier, and more helpful; they are sunshine, food, and medicine to the mind.” ~ Luther Burbank, horticulturist 1849-1926 Medicinal Plants For centuries, humans have used plants for healing. Today, collecting plants from National Parks and Monuments is prohibited, with exceptions made for Native Americans and scientists who hold a permit granted directly from the park. These protections preserve delicate ecosystems. So when visiting, take only photographs and leave the plants alone. Flowers are diverse in shapes, colors, and unique plant substances. Dr. Margarita Kay, former University of Arizona nursing professor, writes in Healing with Plants in the American and Mexican West, “In the United States, plant medicine is a billion-dollar business. Health food stores, yerberias, and large grocery chains carry hundreds of different medicinal herbs.” Kay

Cedar Breaks Ranger—Visitor Center

continues, “ . . . using plants for medicines has been revitalized— seen as trendy alternative medicine by some, as hope for the desperate, an economic necessity, or cultural comfort by others.” Nevertheless, Kay cautions that many plants are hard to identify, and choosing the wrong plant may be harmful rather than healing. Yet, even those with limited plant expertise acknowledge the burn-soothing qualities of Aloe Vera, the decongestant properties of Ephedra (Mormon tea), and the stomach settling of Chamomile tea. Lesser known may be Globemallow as a fumigant, a salve for skin lesions, or a tonic to improve appetite; Sage used as a natural disinfectant, digestive herb, or treatment for sore throats and gums; and Manzanita consumed by Cheyenne Indians as a tea for back sprains, and by pioneers to heal urinary tract infections or as a diuretic. Judy Bluehorse Skelton, Cherokee on her mother’s side and Nez Perce on her father’s, warns " . . . herbal medicine is a lifetime commitment. It’s a life study. It’s a life work. And while there are many books out today on plant medicine, plant ID, how to make salves, how to make teas, I encourage anyone who’s interested in herbal medicine to find someone to study with, to go out with, and to start cultivating the relationship with the plants.” Visit her website at WisdomOfTheElders.org/. As summer temperatures rise in desert communities, you can escape to cooler elevations, immerse yourself in fields of flowers, and appreciate plant medicinal powers.V Cedar Breaks Meadow

38 38

Adventure Park and Summer Fun in Marysvale Utah

t’s that time of year again when Big Rock Candy Mountain opens its doors to welcome all the summer visitors who flock to central Utah to escape the blistering heat. Big Rock Candy Mountain is located on Historic Heritage Highway 89, on the border between Piute and Sevier Counties. And if you are looking for something to do this summer, Awesome Adventures has the best activities available in the area! Ride the World-Famous Paiute ATV Trail right from Big Rock Candy Mountain, and explore the hundreds of miles of trails and side trails, through forests, desert mountains, and streams. If you don’t have your own ATV, or don’t want to trailer it up there, you can rent single seat ATVs, and Side-by-Sides that hold two to six people, for half-day, full-day, or multi-day rentals. Plan your summer getaway and head up to central Utah for some exciting

new activities. And of course, some old favorites, from Awesome Adventures at Big Rock Candy Mountain Resort. Summer Favorites These Utah Adventure favorites depart from the new Adventure Building just

south of the Big Rock Candy Mountain Resort seven days a week, five times a day, and are great for families, individuals, and groups. The Whitewater Rafting Trip is a two hour, class II or class III adventure, with

professional guides, incredible views, and guaranteed fun for all. The Lazy River Float Trip is a leisurely float using tubes, stand-up paddleboards, or rafts on the non-rapids portion of the Sevier River. It is relaxing fun for all ages. The Canopy Zipline is a series of seven ziplines, where participants zip from platform to platform through the trees, and back and forth across the river. Adventure Mountain includes a suspension bridge. Adventurers traverse up and around a mountain, and zipline back to the bottom. Lodging and Activity Packages are available so you can spend the night in a comfy inn suite with two queen beds, or choose a rustic bunkhouse for an outdoor experience. New Adventures Adventure Park: Formerly known as the Ropes Course, the new Adventure Park Activity now includes even more low element challenges, two river crossings using a suspension bridge and tight rope wire, and, new for this year, target shooting with archery, spear throwing, and pellet guns. The Adventure Park is also offered seven days a week, five times a day. Outdoor Training Center: New this year is the Go Fit Adventures Outdoor Training Center, perfect for anyone training for a Spartan Run, Mud Race, Ninja Course, or any group of people looking for

exciting challenges. The course has over thirty obstacles with the ability to customize your experience from a three- to ten-mile course, and is located among beautifully scenic trees, rivers, and mountain ranges. V Use the contact information in this article for more information, or to set up your own customized training course. Awesome Adventures 800-519-2243 awesomeadventures.com/utah

view on EDUCATION

Make Dixie Your Summer Destination by Jyl Hall

Above: O.C. Tanner Amphitheater, Below: Kony Country 4th of July Celebration.

osting events ranging from awe-inspiring city-wide celebrations to concerts performed under stunning sandstone cliffs, Dixie State University, DSU, is making this summer one to remember. In recognition that its motto, Active Learning. Active Life. is a lifestyle as well as an educational philosophy, DSU is proud to offer enriching life experiences, and is thrilled to welcome the entire community onto campus this summer. Holiday Celebrations As part of the city of St. Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Independence Day observance, DSU will host the 99.9 Kony Country Fourth of July Celebration. Featuring Diamond Rio and Sawyer Brown live in concert, the spectacular will conclude with the biggest fireworks show in southern Utah. The celebration will take place in DSUs Legend Solar Stadium, and gates will open at 5 pm with the concert beginning at 7 pm. Admission is free, but tickets are required. For ticket information, visit 999konycountry.com. The festivities continue on July 24 when DSU hosts theatrical representation of the westward trek, The Pioneer Legacy Celebration, written and produced by the world-renowned singer and songwriter, Merrill Osmond. Set to start at 6:30 pm at Legend Solar Stadium, admission is open and free.

The Fourth of July and Pioneer Legacy celebrations are the first of a number of events that will be held at Legend Solar Stadium, which boasts a recently resurfaced track and football field. Groundbreaking for an eastside grandstand that will increase the stadium’s seating capacity to ten thousand is set for August. The structure, which is expected to be completed in the fall of 2018, will become southern Utah’s premier hub for large-scale events by hosting NCAA Division II tournaments, high school state tournaments, larger high school marching band competitions, and the Huntsman World Senior Games events. Trailblazers Summer Concert Series All summer long, the Trailblazers Summer Concert Series will offer a variety of musical performances at the breathtakingly beautiful O.C. Tanner Amphitheater, located at the gateway of Zion National Park. With stars hanging in the deep blue velvet sky as lively music wafts around them, audiences are in for a treat. The music will surely beg them to tap their feet to the beat.

Coming Up This Fall Collegiate football is synonymous with fall, and you will not want to miss the opportunity to cheer on the Dixie State Trailblazers. The home season kicks off at 6 pm on September 16 as DSU takes on Black Hills State. Tickets are $7 to $10 and a full schedule of games is available at dixiestateathletics.com. Held on the DSU campus, the DSU DOCUTAH International Documentary Film Festival is another fall staple in southern Utah. Residents will want to mark their calendars for September 4-9, when DOCUTAH will screen fascinating documentaries created all around the world. Leading up to the annual festival, the monthly series, DOCUTAH@TheElectric screens films on the last Friday of each month at 7 pm in the historic Electric Theater, located in downtown St. George at 68 E. Tabernacle St. Tickets are $10 and are available at docutah.com.

Celebrating rock music, the series’ Rock Fest will be led by electronic folk pop band, The National Parks on July 8. Based in Provo, the group has toured nationwide and will be joined at Rock Fest by local favorite Many Miles, who will share their infectious grooves and melodies with the audience. After its debut last summer, Sanctuary: The Story of Zion will return to the Tanner stage on July 22. The musical celebration tells the story of the people, projects, and passions that made Zion the destination it is today. On August 4, the Trailblazers Summer Concert Series will go country when it hosts Collin Raye. A hitmaker in the 90s who had twenty-four Top 10 records and sixteen No. 1 hits, Raye continues to release heartfelt material teeming with his signature honesty and richness. The O. C. Tanner Amphitheater will welcome classically trained tenor, Nathan Pacheco on August 11. A BYU graduate, Pacheco will be accompanied by the Lyceum Orchestra, which has been named Utah’s Best Youth Performing Ensemble for the past seven years. The renowned Utah Symphony will launch their Great American Road Trip on August 29 at the O.C. Tanner Amphitheater, which was built more than forty years ago to provide a beautiful venue at which the symphony could perform in southern Utah. Tickets are required for entrance, but will be free. They are available through the DSU box office, located in the M.K. Cox Performing Arts Center on the main campus. The series continues through the end of September with the Zion Matrix festival on September 9 and will close with the Zion Canyon Music Festival on September 29-30. The O.C. Tanner Amphitheater is located at 350 W. Lion Blvd. in Springdale. Concert tickets range from $15 to $35, and more information about each show is available at www.octannershows.com.

Chat session with a DOCUTAH Filmmaker.

This summer, the series will host Director, Greg Whiteley when his film New York Doll is screened on July 28. The documentary tells of glam-rock-punk band, New York Dolls’ meteoric rise, drugand-alcohol-riddled demise, and attempt at a surprise comeback. In the final event before the festival, The Atomic Cafe will be screened on August 25. Largely drawing from government propaganda and training films for American soldiers, the documentary features Cold War-era clips filled with misinformation. Co-director Jayne Loader will host a Q&A after the screening. In other arts events, the Celebrity Concert Series will launch for the 2017-18 academic year in October. Featuring twelve concerts, the series includes everything from country, folk, doo-wop, big band, and chamber music, to acrobatics and ballet. See the full lineup of performances at celebrityconcertseries.com. With so much going on this summer and fall, there is a way for everyone to experience Dixie State University’s unique brand of Active Learning. Active Life. V

Beating Your Closet Clutter Monster story submitted by Classy Closets

emember when we were little kids and our parents had to chase away the monsters that lived under our beds before we could go to sleep at night? Chances are, your parents knew just the perfect ritual or chant to make those monsters miraculously disappear. Or maybe, if you were the doubting type like me, they had to shine a light under there to prove there was nothing in the shadows that could hurt me while I slept.

Unfortunately, they failed to warn us that there were bigger evils lurking in the darkened corners that as adults, we would not be able to so simply chase away. I’m talking about the dreaded closet clutter monster. If only we could call Mom, or maybe an exorcist, to banish this problem that haunts our lives. Although it may not be quite as simple as it was when we were young, there are ways we can defeat the closet clutter monster once and for all.

If your mom is coming for a visit, you know what you have to do. It is called the dash and stash. Not much I can tell you here except take a break every half hour or so and stay hydrated for heaven’s sake. For the sake of this article, let’s say you have some time to work with. I will share a practically painless method to tame that monster once and for all.

Step one: Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no getting around it; you have to declutter. Get yourself three boxes or bags or hampers. Mark one keep, one throw away, and one giveaway. Do this for no more than fifteen minutes per session so as to not get overwhelmed by the process. Do not empty the closet and try to get it all done in one day. This will only result in making a bigger mess that you will want to avoid for the next six months. For the keepers, you need to ask yourself some serious questions: Do I love you? Do you make me happy? Have I worn you in the past year? If the answer is no to any of the questions, move it to the giveaway or the throw away box. I know some of us cannot bear to part with that high school prom dress, but seriously, when are you going to wear it? Imagine the smile on the face of the young girl who could not afford a brand new dress for prom. You get the picture, right? The trash box is for the stuff you have been waiting to get repaired or altered for the past two years but never got around to it. Trust me, you are going to save a lot of time and money, not to mention sleeping sounder, by releasing clutter from your life. You will be able to see the clothes you actually wear; you will not waste money re-buying things you cannot find; and you will be amazed at the coordinated outfits you will be able to put together when you shop your own closet.

wonder why you ever waited so long to chase that closet clutter monster away for good.V In Mesquite, the Arizona Strip, and Moapa Valley, visit Classy Closets of Mesquite for all your closet needs. Visit us at 521 W. Mesquite Blvd. Ste. B, Mesquite, NV (702) 346-2087. You can also visit our website at www.classyclosets.com.

Step two: You need to keep the clutter away permanently. For this you will need an organization system. If you do not have a place for everything and everything is in its place, the clutter will just keep coming back. It is best to place this part of the plan in the hands of a professional. Make an appointment for a free design and estimate session. The professional designer/estimator will measure your closet and work with you to make the most efficient use of your personal closet space. They may have ideas you have never thought of to maximize whatever size space you have to work with. You will have a combination of hanging rods, open shelves, drawer stacks, and other accessories to choose from in various sizes and configurations to meet your needs. You may choose your finish in basic white for a clean modern look, or one of many colors or wood grain looks to suit your taste. Accessories to choose from include belt racks, various size hooks, hampers, jewelry inserts, ironing boards, shoe fences, valet rods, pull-out baskets, and pull-downs. Visit your local professional closet design store today for a permanent solution to all your closet clutter problems. You will

On The Town by Linda Faas

Beaver Dam Jam

he weekend of May 5-7, Beaver Dam was jamming with great fun, great food, and a couple of great races. The three-day music fest in Beaver Dam, Arizona, celebrated ten years of lively entertainment known as the Beaver Dam Jam. People came from far and near to enjoy the line-up of eighteen local and semilocal bands. The weather was warm enough to sit back under the awning and enjoy the music. The traditional lawn mower races kicked up the adrenalin as spectators watched the super modified machines and their drivers kick up dust and race to the finish. The Beaver Dam Lawn Mower Racing Association has improved the track with safety features like hay bales and fencing to keep the crowd safe.

Dakota Nights performs at the Beaver Dam Jam.

If you have never experienced the Beaver Dam Jam, you don’t know what you’re missing. Mark your calendars now and join us at the eleventh annual Beaver Dam Jam next May. You won’t be disappointed.

New Library for Mesquite

round was broken Wednesday, May 24 at the future site of Mesquite’s new library by local dignitaries using ceremonial golden shovels. The new 13,313 square foot building will be built across the street from the current library. The project will combine old with new, and the current library will be incorporated into the new library campus as a learning center for Mesquite.

The estimated cost of the new library is $8.4 million, and will include an art gallery, a cafe, computers, a homework help center, and community rooms. Mayor Al Litman said, “By next spring, you’re going to see a beautifully-landscaped plaza and a beautifully-put-together library.” The new library is scheduled to open in the spring of 2018.

Great events are going on around southern Nevada and the Arizona Strip on a daily basis. Here, we bring you just a fraction of what’s happened lately.

Student Art Month

ay was student art month in Mesquite, Nevada, and the Mesquite Fine Arts Gallery hosted young artists from the Virgin Valley schools, home schooled students, and even a group of artists from Rancho High School in North Las Vegas. The staff at the Gallery took great care to stage the students’ art pieces with perfect lighting and symmetry. “This is our favorite display. We look forward to seeing the creativity of these young people year after year, and they never disappoint,” said Katherine Cole, Mesquite Fine Arts Gallery President. The annual exhibit culminated in a reception to honor the young artists held on May 25. Students and their families walked through the displays and enjoyed the colorful, exciting, and varied pieces. Recognition was given to each of the art instructors, and a tearful good-bye was said by art teacher, Mrs. Lori Raines who is retiring from Virgin Valley Elementary this year. The Mesquite Fine Arts Gallery is located at 15 West Mesquite Boulevard, Mesquite, Nevada. They are open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Honoring the Fallen photo courtesy of Vernon Robison

n the evening of Monday, May 29, a small number of Moapa Valley residents gathered at the Pioneer Cemetery in Overton, Nevada to participate in the annual flag retreat to honor those who gave their life in service of our country. As the sun went down, VFW members silently lowered and folded the flag. Flowers and a flag were laid at the foot of a veteran’s memorial marker by veterans and auxiliary officers. Post Commander Chuck Riley said, “Where the body of a comrade lies, there the ground is hallowed.”

At the conclusion of the services, there was a moment of silence followed by a poignant rendition of Taps played by Post Bugler, Joe Perez. President John F. Kennedy said, “A nation reveals itself not only by the men [and women] it produces, but also by the men [and women] it honors, the men [and women] it remembers.” May we always remember those who sacrificed all for the freedoms we enjoy today.

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Honoring Olive’s Dream

by Charlene Paul recently had the privilege of sitting down and speaking with Merrill Osmond, lead singer of the world-renowned singing group, The Osmonds, and his son Justin. They were welcoming, warm, and witty, as they spoke of family, the history of the Osmonds, and the upcoming Pioneer Legacy Celebration.

Merrill explained that he and his brothers began singing in public as a way to earn money for the purchase of hearing aids for their two older brothers, Virl and Tom, who are deaf. It was their mother, Olive’s dream to help not only her sons, but others who struggle with hearing loss. As time passed, she formed a foundation that laid the groundwork for the Children’s Miracle Network. Justin is the only member of the second generation of Osmonds who was born deaf. He was quite shy and at one point in his life, was about two years behind kids his own age, making it difficult to fit in. Because of his hearing loss, he was told by doctors, teachers, and other professionals that he would never play the violin. He had to read the lyrics to his father’s songs. “Can you imagine not being able to understand your dad sing?” he asked. In memory of his grandmother, Olive’s dream to create awareness for people who cannot hear, Justin formed the Olive Osmond Hearing Fund, www.HearingFund.org, and regenerated the Olive teaching her sons, Virl and Tom.

Olive Osmond

excitement of her dream within the Osmond family. Justin strives to bring that awareness to the ears of those who have been blessed with the ability to hear. “I may have a hearing loss, but that hearing loss does not have me,” is the motto Justin lives by. He has accomplished things others never dreamed possible. After twelve years of intense speech and listening therapy, which he hated, he hears with the aid of modern-day technology, and is a dynamic speaker who passionately teaches lessons of perseverance and daring to dream. In 2015, Justin accomplished something that only a handful of people on the planet have accomplished. To raise money for the purchase of hearing aids for twenty-five children in southern Utah, he ran 250 miles in seven days—the equivalent of running approximately ten marathons back-to-back. Although it has not always been easy growing up deaf in a family of musicians, Justin never let that stop him from achieving what others deemed unachievable. The desire to play the violin grew into mastering not only the violin, but the viola, piano, and drums as well. He received the Sterling scholarship in music, earned titles in athletics, and is an Eagle Scout. He loves life and possesses the ability to put people at ease when he speaks. In reverence and remembrance of his grandmother, Olive’s dream, he works tirelessly to assist those with hearing loss receive the tools they need to live a life full of happiness and joy, satisfaction and achievement. He

continues to work with individuals and corporations, such as Intermountain Audiology, one of the Pioneer Legacy Celebration sponsors who will provide hearing aids for three families this summer. Merrill says Olive’s dream is moving forward just exactly as his beloved mother envisioned it. “Justin came into our family to fulfill a dream that was destined to be. There were no accidents.” As a grandmother myself, I know Olive would be so pleased and so proud of her grandson, Justin. He is warm and witty, serious and driven, and I was a little sad when our interview came to an end that day. But I walked away with joy in my heart and renewed hope for all that is possible when we choose not to let our weaknesses have us. Thank-you, Justin. Thank-you, Merrill. And thank-you, Olive.

Honoring Utah’s Pioneer Legacy

he history of the state of Utah is most widely accepted as the history of the LDS church, the Mormons. And while the handcart pioneers and those who followed Brigham Young to the Utah Territory are to be commended for their role in its settlement, Utah’s legacy is so much more diverse and multifaceted. Traveling Catholic priests arrived shortly after the Mormons to serve U.S. troops stationed in Utah. The First

Congregational Church was the first permanent, non-LDS church in Utah. The Episcopal Church, the Jewish Community, and the First Presbyterian Church all assembled congregations. Meeting in haylofts and rented halls, the Methodist Church was dedicated in 1875. The Baptist Church and the Church of Christ, Scientist also played important roles in meeting the needs of those early settlers. It is in the spirit of inclusion of those varied groups that founder and executive producer, Merrill Osmond put together the first Pioneer Legacy Celebration. “In an attempt to bring greater awareness to our pioneer ancestors, through this production, I wish to honor the brave men, women, and children who sacrificed so much, including those who sacrificed all to establish a place of freedom and a safehaven to raise their families,” explained Osmond. Since 1987, Osmond and his collaborators have endeavored to create a non-denominational tribute to all cultures

that played a role in establishing the Utah we know and love today. This year’s celebration will be held at the Legend Solar Stadium at Dixie State University, and will showcase the Dixie Trailblazer story. Local talent of more than 150 youth, ages five to eighteen years will tell that story in word, song, and dance. Fireworks displays choreographed with the music will be used throughout the show to add to the excitement, adventure, drama, and emotion. When asked about the youthful cast, Osmond explained that “the decision to make this production a youth-centered production was a unanimous one by all who assisted me, for it is the youth that we hope and pray will continue to remember and honor the pioneers throughout their lives. I pray that they may continue to tell their children and their grandchildren of the many sacrifices the pioneers made, resulting in certain freedoms we enjoy today.” “We will also be honoring a modern-day pioneer family this year, Sidney Atkin,

his younger brother, J. Ralph, their sister, LouJean Atkin Lundin, and other members of the Atkin family,” said Osmond. In 1877, William and Rachel Atkin settled on 160 acres of uninhabited land on the east bank of the Virgin River, eight miles south of St. George, and since they were the first settlers in the area, it became known as Atkinville. Today, the Sun River development is situated on that land. The Atkin brothers and their sister, along with their spouses have started and run several businesses in St. George, and have been

involved in many philanthropic ventures over the years. They are active and avid supporters of Dixie State University. There will be a Dixie Pioneer Days of ’47 Parade and lots of other fun activities throughout the day leading up to the Pioneer Legacy & Firework Celebration that evening. The Pioneer Legacy & Firework Celebration is FREE to the public. “We hope this will bring families of all faiths together. We hope it will be lifechanging,” said Osmond. V

Be sure to mark your calendar for Monday, July 24. Doors open: 6:30 p.m. Pre-show: 8:15-9:05 p.m. Intermission: 9:05-9:20 p.m. Merrill Osmond’s Pioneer Legacy & Firework Celebration: 9:20-10:15 p.m. Fireworks Spectacular: 10:15-10:30 p.m. See you there! For more information, visit www.ThePioneerLegacy.com.

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Demonstrating a Commitment to Excellence in Healthcare submitted by Highland Manor, Mesquite

ighland Manor would like to introduce Ethan Carter as their new administrator. Ethan recently completed his Administrator in Training program under previous administrator, Brady Flygare, who will now be the director of operations for Desert Care Facilities in Nevada. Getting to Know Ethan Ethan hails from southern Utah, and currently resides in St. George. He has been happily married to his wife, Brooke, for nine years. They have three beautiful children, seven-yearold Maddie, four-year-old Daxton, and two-year-old Hadley. Ethan graduated

with Bachelors in Physical Education and Human Performance from Southern Utah University in Cedar City. Working in healthcare has always been a desire for Ethan, and when the opportunity to work in skilled nursing and long-term care arose, he could not pass it up. He comes to Highland Manor with more than five years of skilled nursing experience and more than ten years in physical therapy and hospital collections and medical records. Ethan enjoys spending time with his family, and they enjoy being outdoors, hiking, and camping, but they enjoy trips to Disneyland most of all. Ethan is a sports fanatic, and football and baseball are his favorites. He enjoys a round or two of golf

as well. Growing up in Utah, winter sports were a must for the Carter family. Ethan has been skiing and snowboarding since the age of four. Ethan is excited to be a member of the team at Highland Manor of Mesquite. He has a passion for providing the residents with the highest quality of care so they can achieve their highest wellbeing and potential. Ethan is caring and compassionate, and he is dedicated to the geriatric community. Highland Manor of Mesquite, a Desert Care facility, is a licensed skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility, and is home

quality resident care, we practice and excel at it day in and day out. Every member of our staff is dedicated to our residents; it is truly a team effort.” The Five-Star Rating System was created by Medicare to help consumers, families, and caregivers compare nursing homes based on specific standards. Nursing homes are rated on three criteria, health inspections, staffing, and quality measures. At Highland Manor of Mesquite, our residents are able to participate in a wide variety of activities and community events. Some favorites are bingo at the casino, trips to the movie theater, and scenic rides with lunch. We also present a variety of performances from choirs, singers, musicians, and dancers. Here at Highland Manor, our amazing activities department provides Operation Hydration, and makes the most amazing shakes, smoothies, and floats to help us stay cool and wellhydrated. We also enjoy when the community of Mesquite gets involved, especially for Christmas in July, and the Haaalloooween Dog Parade. If you are interested in participating or volunteering in our activities program, contact Carrie at activities@highlandmanorofmesquite.com. V For more information, feel free to contact us at (702) 346-7666, or visit us at 272 Pioneer Blvd., Mesquite. You are also welcome to visit our website at www.highlandmanorofmesquite.com.

Ethan Carter, new administrator at Highland Manors Mesquite.

to between sixty-five and seventy long-term and short-term residents. They offer a full range of medical services, including rehabilitation, long-term care, respite care, as well as programs designed to help individuals. The Bounce Back Rehabilitation program, Rehab, Recover, and Return Home, offers physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, along with skilled nursing care. The Garden Court Alzheimer’s/Dementia Care neighborhood is a secured neighborhood for older adults suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related disorders. It offers resident-focused, activity-based programming, with a strong emphasis placed on safety and security. The staff has been carefully selected and trained to be sensitive to the needs of the residents and their families. Particular emphasis is placed on exercise, activities, personal hygiene, and grooming, as well as nutritional management. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, CMS, has awarded Highland Manor of Mesquite with an overall Five Star Rating, which is the highest rating possible. Highland Manor of Mesquite has also been awarded the HealthInsight Award for several years, including 2016. We are extremely proud of these recognitions which are indicative of the exceptional personalized care and services our staff provides for our residents. Director of nursing, Rosa Paucar, explained, “We not only believe in high

Adopt a Grandparent by Jennifer Hammond-Moore

he thought of adopting a grandparent came to me a few months ago when I read an article in the last issue of View On Magazine about the upcoming Christmas in July held at Highland Manor and the BeeHive Assisted Living Home. I read that they were requesting personal care items and gifts that would enrich the lives their residents, and it got me thinking. I pondered the idea of what it would be like to live in a care facility, and what could truly be a gift that we could all giveâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;That gift could be our time. What if we could put that concept to work and

adopt a grandparent, one that would be involved with our children's lives, attend school activities, go to the park, share their histories, and enrich our general well-being. Many of the seniors I talk to do not have family close by. I look to my elders for advice and mentoring. I lost my mother nine years ago, and my father lives ninety miles away. I am lucky enough to have a beautiful mother-in-law close by who can share in my childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and grandchildrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activities, but what about other seniors

or young families who may not have family close by? How can they share their knowledge and enrich the young families of today? With our local communities attracting large numbers of retiring Americans, there is no better place to have an adopt-a-grandparent program. I searched the internet for programs that may already be implemented locally, but I could not find any. I did find material on programs across the country, and also in Australia. Ann Brenoff of the Huffington Post reported on one such program,

referring to it as “‘the older person’s version of Big Brothers Big Sisters of America—the program that matches up singleparented kids with role models from the community who visit and spend time with them.’” Many religious groups run programs, and some high schools even offer school credit when students visit residents living in nursing homes. Alyssa Newman, a graduate student from Central Michigan University started a program over ten years ago to Adopt-A-Grandparent. The students commit one to several hours a week with their adopted grandparents. She said students do not get class credit, they do it because they appreciate the interaction. The National Exchange Club offers service to seniors with many programs, including Adopt-a-Grandparent. They recommend starting by contacting the local school principals and going from there. For more information visit: www.nationalexchangeclub.org/service-to-senior. Homestead Hope Foundation in Georgia has extensive information for starting a program in your area, including federal grants that can help get your own program off the ground. http://www.homesteadhopefoundation.org/. Most of the programs have a general outline of how to begin. First, research. Find local organizations and contact local care facilities or senior centers. Second, apply for adoption. Many groups recommend background checks, or they will run a criminal report. Third, matching of grandparents. Most often matches are made based on common interests or similar backgrounds. Getting to know the new grand can be as simple as going for an outing or visiting the care facility where they may reside. Spending quality time is essential for the program to work. Invite the grands to attend family activities, children's sporting activities, or community events. If they cannot leave their care facility, bring photo albums or games to share. They may even have photos and wonderful stories of their own to share. Always ask the facility staff before you bring special meals or treats. Some people may have dietary restrictions, so dropping in with a well-intentioned plate of double fudge brownies may not be the best idea. Finally, committing to at least a year is essential to encourage the success of the mentoring. Take a little time this summer to visit Highland Manor, Beehive Home, or another care facility in your area. They will take donations for the wonderful Christmas in July celebration until July 19, 2017. If you cannot donate, remember your time is just as valuable, if not more so. You may not need to start a full-blown program, you may find matching people with each other to be your calling. Bringing people together with a common goal—to love and be loved in return. V

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Partnering Up For Fitness by Laura L. Draskovich, A.C.E. Certified Personal Trainer

xercise has many positive benefits, as we are aware. By taking responsibility for our physical health, we provide our own health insurance. The benefits we receive in return are paid through improvements in cardiovascular health, strength, flexibility, endurance, and bone density, as well as reducing or eliminating the need for medications. But no matter what the motivation, let's face it, we often put ourselves low on our list of daily tasks. When things come up, they often take priority. We keep bumping our workout time later and later, until we have run out of time! Taking time for YOU requires what I call the 3 Ds: Dedication, Discipline, and Determination. "Easier said than done," you say. Two words: Workout Buddy—problem solved. Partnering up for a workout is a great way to go for many reasons. For one, it is a great way to combine your fitness with social time. Together you can motivate each other and hold one another accountable for showing up for your

workout. Besides the fun factor, you can increase your success in reaching your goals. Misery loves company, but it does not seem quite so terrible when two of you are suffering. Studies from the University of Pittsburgh report that women—sorry guys, this study was done for the ladies—who exercise with a partner lost one-third more weight than those who hit the gym solo. Another study from the Department of Kinesiology at Indiana State University surveyed couples who joined health clubs together. The study found that couples who worked out separately—different times or days— had a 43 percent dropout rate over the course of a year. Those couples who went to the gym together, regardless of whether or not they shared the same workout, exercise, or goal had only a 6.3 percent dropout rate over the course of a year. Consider your potential workout partner. They are your support system, your cheerleader, your partner in fitness. When

you have an appointment, you are much more likely to show up. Same goes for your workout with a partner. The accountability makes a difference when you know someone is waiting for and counting on you. Individuals to consider as workout buddies can be friends, colleagues, or people from a fitness class you attend. A spouse or partner can be perfect for those who support each other's goals and may have trouble finding time to be together. What attributes should you possess in order to be a good workout partner? Being in touch with your partner is key. Send reminders, prearrange rides, give wake-up calls, suggest new workout ideas to keep things fresh, and prevent fitness plateaus. Additionally, remind your partner of their goals, offer encouragement, and push when the going gets tough. Keep tabs on your partner through illness, travel, or other routine-breakers. Now let's discuss the qualities both partners bring to the fit team. A positive

attitude—check your attitude and bad vibes at the gym door. You will feel so much better meeting your pal and sweating it out. Remember, if you think you are venting, you probably are. Save it for cool-down and stretching if you still feel the urge. Chances are, you will feel much better. Compatible schedules are very important for obvious reasons. Do your best to schedule life around your workouts. Make the time that you and your partner set aside a priority. Respect one another’s time. Here are a few ideas to help ensure a lasting and results-oriented partnership and program:

• Equal commitment. It sounds simple, but

people differ in their level of commitment. It is no fun being stood-up at the gym.

• Common workout goals. If you are working

to lose weight and your partner is working to shave time off their marathon pace, the workouts each of you do will be strikingly different. Common goals make partnered workout times easier.

• Similar fitness levels and abilities. When partners’ fitness

levels and abilities vary greatly, the fittest individual almost always feels underchallenged and sometimes resentful for being held back, while the least fit individual almost always feels like they cannot keep up.

• Remember goals. Save the chit chat for warming up,

stretching, and post-workout. While the social aspect of having a workout buddy can increase your workout enjoyment, do not undermine the effectiveness of the reason you are there in the first place. Goals!

• Finally, take turns coming up with a routine. By taking turns mapping out your sessions, both partners remain equally engaged in the training relationship.

Partnering up can be a great way to incorporate motivation, accountability, and camaraderie into your fitness program. Working out with a partner increases success by keeping you on track. Plus, you will be more likely to make a permanent lifestyle change. I can assure you, as a fitness professional with 20 years of experience, I see this all the time. Individuals from my fitness classes meet in class, spend time out of class, reinforce, and support one another. Of my personal training clients, partner teams are the most highly committed to their programs. The proof is in—when training together—everyone wins. Until next time, Keep Living the Fit Life.V

DOCUTAH Showcases

Tuacahn: Miracle in Padre Canyon

by Della Lowe

t sits in the majesty of Padre Canyon, a place so magical it takes one’s breath away. Formed by nature eons ago, this is the home of the Tuacahn Amphitheater. The vision that created the Amphitheatre at Tuacahn was born from a reverence for nature with a desire to preserve its natural magnificence, and to provide a unique experience for visitors. Now the Dixie State University DOCUTAH International Documentary Film Festival joins with Tuacahn Amphitheatre to present a film documentary which intertwines the history of this place with a behind-the-scenes look at just how the incredible production of Shrek the Musical came together.

To kick off its eighth season on September 4, DOCUTAH will host a gala dinner event at Tuacahn for the world premiere of its documentary film, Tuacahn: Miracle in Padre Canyon. The DOCUTAH festival runs from September 5-9 on the campus of Dixie State University, DSU, in St. George. “This is a tale of two productions. One is the history of the canyon and the vision that created Tuacahn Amphitheatre as a venue for professional, world-class family entertainment. The other is the story of how a complicated Broadway show is developed and configured to utilize and adapt to the natural wonder of Padre

Canyon,” said Phil Tuckett, producer and writer, as well as festival director for DOCUTAH. From the time Orval Hafen settled in the canyon, he wanted the generations that would follow him to “share this beauty and drink of the inspiration” of the canyon, with its towering red rocks. Tuacahn has expanded on that vision by honoring the natural beauty and using its outdoor location to enhance the productions it offers. “We wanted the audience to understand not only the rich history that created

Tuacahn, but also how its complex productions come together from conception to execution,” continued Tuckett. “By going back in time to reveal the story of the creation of Tuacahn Center for the Arts and Tuacahn Amphitheatre, we demonstrate what the founders first envisioned—that Padre Canyon could be more than just landscape—and then we bring the audience forward to the first audition for Shrek The Musical.” Tuckett did not want the film to follow a purely chronological order. He felt that by moving back and forth in time, the film could have a better pace, and draw audiences into the history as it helped develop the mission of Tuacahn Amphitheatre. As a venue for plays and concerts, Tuacahn has some distinct advantages and challenges. The outdoor setting is beautiful and large, allowing for production values, which could not be achieved on a smaller stage—flying actors, rivers running through the set, water curtains on which to project. Because it is outdoors, however, Mother Nature sometimes intervenes. But cast and crew have become nimble in adjusting at a moment’s notice. David Pugsley, a member of Tuacahn’s board for six years, and his wife, Nanette have been involved with Tuacahn for many years. “We have seen productions on Broadway in New York and then seen

the same play at Tuacahn, and realized that the Tuacahn production took the story to a whole new level,” remarked Dave. “So, when we were thinking about a documentary, we approached Tuacahn’s creative director, Scott Anderson, who told us we had to speak with Phil Tuckett. Lucky for us, Phil immediately saw the value in the idea.” Any place an audition was held for Shrek, Tuckett and his director and director of

photography, Ben Braden were there— Los Angeles, New York, Salt Lake City, Tuacahn—capturing the drama and documenting the evolution of the work. They worked closely with Anderson as sets were built, wardrobes designed, make-up created, and rehearsals took place. To understand and reveal the history, they interviewed those who were involved from the beginning, and searched for the images needed to tell that part of the story.

Baird Painting Before & After

we saw it as an opportunity for two great institutions to do something together, to bring something awesome to our community. It seemed like a perfect fit. Very few places are lucky enough to have Tuacahn and DOCUTAH.” When Tuacahn Amphitheatre began performances, it attracted about 80,000 guests per year. Now audiences number between 260,000 to 300,000 per year.

“Tuacahn is more than an entertainment venue, it is a place where lives are changed,” said Anderson, “As you can imagine, the actors and crews who come here are a very diverse group. They arrive with different lifestyles, political viewpoints, religions. Yet, the work and the events bring everyone together. We bring in diverse groups of people who live in and interact with our community. The glue is a love of theater—from the crew, the actors, the audience—and it all comes together to make our productions a success.” “Ben and I have worked together so many times that we read each other’s minds. He can go out and pick up additional footage that exactly fits the artistic vision we are trying to achieve,” continued Tuckett. “We have been working for several years to put together films which chronicle the history and culture of the southwest which we call High Desert Chronicles, and the history of Tuacahn is a perfect complement for that series of documentaries.” Dave and Nanette felt that Tuacahn was not only an important piece of the history of southern Utah, but also a great story about the resource that the theater is and how it has impacted the lives of the community and the performers. Kevin Smith, CEO of Tuacahn, gives credit to David and Nanette Pugsley. “It was their vision to see how a documentary about Tuacahn produced by DOCUTAH was a perfect fit for two institutions dedicated to advancing the arts and education.” “We are very involved in all the performing arts in our community, such as the St. George Musical Theater and Brigham Playhouse,” said Nanette. “Once we got together with Phil on this project,

“We knew that DOCUTAH was the right venue to tell this story because Tuacahn is right in our backyard. Its mission fits with our mission, which is not only to entertain, but also to educate. Just as Tuacahn High School students can avail themselves of the knowledge industry professionals bring to their campus each year, DSU students are always involved with the DOCUTAH Festival, and in the production of the student films we produce each year,” said Tuckett. “We are always thinking about how we present ourselves to the world as both a production unit and an academic organization. Every time we go out to shoot, we have current students and recent graduates with us who perform all the functions of a crew making a professional, feature-length film.” “At Tuacahn we say, ‘expect the unforgettable,’ and this documentary will certainly live up to that, bringing audiences into intimate contact with the artists and production crew as they develop and then present a remarkable show, while also allowing the audience to understand and get an up close understanding of how Tuacahn: Miracle in Padre Canyon came to be,” noted Smith. More information about the dinner gala and screening on September 4 can be found on the DOCUTAH Website. Tickets for the gala and film can be reserved through the Tuacahn Website at www.tuacahn.org/DOCUTAH. Tickets for the DOCUTAH International Documentary Film Festival, which takes place on the campus of Dixie State University, will be on sale through the DSU Box office starting mid-July. A link can be found on the DOCUTAH website at docutah.com. V

If You Can't Be Home

BeeHive

story submitted by BeeHive Homes

eeHive Homes began in 1987 when Twayne Walker built the first assisted living home in Meridian, Idaho. In response to very limited quality care facilities, Twayne originally built the first BeeHive Home as a means to provide his grandmother with quality care in home-like surroundings. However, it didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take long to realize that many were searching for the same services. The BeeHive Homes model itself is unique. With a focus on smaller homes designed to resemble actual residential homes, BeeHive Homes is dedicated to making the move to assisted living seamless and comfortable. This innovative idea was developed around the concept that the elderly deserve a clean and comfortable family setting at an affordable price when they reach a point in their lives that they need assisted living care.

At the time, many facilities did not provide a home-like setting for their residents. During the construction phase of the first BeeHive assisted living home, potential residents showed so much interest that many of them were ready to move in as soon as it was completed. This level of interest has continued unabated, and the demand is now stronger than ever across the country. BeeHive now has over 130 franchised locations, mainly in the western half of the United States. Our homes offer an alternative for seniors who cannot remain at home alone, but do not require the services of a nursing facility. We are also seeing an increasing number of people come to our facilities from the hospital in order to transition back to their home as they receive therapy services to recover after a fall or surgery. At BeeHive, resident choice and individuality are paramount. Each

resident has their own private bedroom and bath with a shower. Staff prepare dietician-approved, home-style meals that are served in our large dining room. A large living room offers space for group activities, family visits, or a relaxing movie. Our caregivers are there to assist with medication management, and offer assistance with laundry, cleaning, bathing, dressing, and other personal care. We partner with local businesses to offer services such as nursing, therapy, and hospice that are not part of our own wide array of services. Families are always welcome and often drop in at meal time because the food is just that good and the atmosphere is always inviting. Gerald Hamilton and Tim Stewart, owners of the current BeeHive location in Mesquite, are pleased with the success they have had working in Mesquite. The demand for BeeHiveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s services has been

strong enough that we have begun a second location right next to the first which will be open by the end of 2017 to serve fifteen additional residents. Gerald has over thirty years of experience caring for the elderly. He joined the BeeHive family in 2005, and now operates four very successful BeeHive locations in the Albuquerque, New Mexico area. He serves on several state and national boards for professional associations that promote long-term care services. Tim is a local who grew up in Las Vegas and now owns a contracting business in St. George, Utah. He built the first BeeHive home in Mesquite, and will be the general contractor on the new home. Mesquite local, Vickie Ramirez has been manager of the first home since it opened, and will be the administrator overseeing the operation of both homes. At BeeHive Homes of Mesquite, we are proud to continue to offer the finest in senior residential care in our unique homelike environment. When we say home-like, we really mean it! You will feel it as soon

as you walk through our doors. You will smell it when you walk past our kitchen and our home-cooked meals. You will know it as you see our residents enjoying time with family and friends in their new

home. You will love it as you witness the interactions between our caring staff and our residents. Come on over to our home and see what all the buzz is about at BeeHive Homes! V

view on FINANCE

How to Play the Stock Market with No Risk by Todd Bauman, IAR—Bauman Advisory Group

ith the stock market making new highs, the buzz on the street is that we are due for a correction. I think the old saying, “What goes up, must come down,” just might be true. When you look at a chart of the S&P 500®, it hit an all-time high in the year 2000. It then dropped approximately 48 percent over a three-year time period. It finally bottomed out in 2003, and started its ascent back up over a five-year time period to another all-time high in 2008. It then dropped approximately 56 percent. In March of 2009, it began its ascent over a five-year time period to another all-time high. And it did not stop there! The market has continued to reach new highs. So to recap, all time high then huge drop, all time high then huge drop, all time high—What do you think will happen next? Well, I do not have a crystal ball, but studying the chart, it sure looks like we are headed for another drop. If this scenario concerns you, you might want to consider investing your money into a Fixed Indexed Annuity. A Fixed Indexed Annuity is a contract with the insurance company for a specific period of time called the term.

There are many features that should be considered before purchasing one, however. I have listed some of them below. Safety This type of annuity is an account that protects your principal, so if the stock

market has another huge drop, you will not lose any of your principal. You will not earn any interest that year, but more importantly, you will not lose your investment either. If the market goes up, you will earn some interest. You give up some of the upside potential to get no

downside risk. A lot of people who are averse to risk are willing to give up of some of their earnings to protect their principal.

you pass away, the balance of your account is passed on to your beneficiaries.

Liquidity The big misconception I hear all the time is that annuities are illiquid. This is not true. Most annuities allow up to 10 percent free withdrawals every year. If you withdraw more than 10 percent, you will incur a surrender charge. The surrender charge usually decreases over time, and when your term is up, it is 100 percent liquid should you decide to cash it in.

• The long-term care feature is an option that can provide benefits should you need home health care or nursing home care.

Fees Some fixed annuities have fees and some do not. The Indexed annuities that have a fee will usually have some type of guarantee with which it is associated. I call these guarantees bells and whistles. Bells and Whistles For an additional fee, you can add features to your Index annuity that can protect you in the future, if needed. Some of the typical features are a lifetime income, long-term care, or a death benefit to your heirs. • The lifetime income feature is good to have for someone who will need to generate an income stream that they will never outlive. You do not lose control of your investment, and should

• The death benefit feature is just that, your account accumulates at a certain percentage rate and should you pass away, your heirs will receive that value immediately or over a set period of time, but beware of this feature; you have to die in order for it to be received. Try not to use it too soon! So if you want to retire in the near future, or are already retired, one thing is clear, retirement strategies today are different than they were in the past. The economy is completely different today. People live longer, and the need to protect your assets and income should be at the top of your list. A good Fixed Indexed Annuity can help you survive financially during your retirement so you can have peace of mind.V Todd Bauman is an IAR for Bauman Advisory Group, a Registered Investment Advisor in the State of Nevada. He is also an author and public speaker in Southern Nevada. He can be reached at (702) 897-9997 or at todd@toddbauman.com.

Mojave Metal Works

by Amber Wilde ojave Metal Works is a small design studio located in Mesquite, Nevada specializing in custom metal art. Every piece is uniquely different, from custom bookends to giant wall art, there is something for everyone to fall in love with.

The owner and only artist for Mojave Metal Works is Matt Thomas. Originally from Salt Lake City, Utah, Matt moved to Mesquite in 2014 to be closer to his parents. He put his artistic career on hold and enjoyed spending every minute with them. It has taken some time for him to get back to creating art, and to get his business up and running again, but he now has a fully operational metal shop where he creates his masterpieces. Mattâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s love for art and metal was passed down to him at a young age from both his parents. When he was a young boy, his mother worked as an office manager at a machine shop where she would bring Matt every day after school. He spent hours in the scrap metal pile tinkering and piecing together discarded parts. His father was an author, and Matt inherited his passion for creativity. Mattâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s career started right out of high school when he went to a technical college where he specialized in CNC Programming and Machining. He completed a welding apprenticeship and got a job working for a defense contractor where he worked for ten years manufacturing parts for the aerospace industry. He went on to work for a mechanical engineering firm, designing and building automated systems for the food industry. His true passion, however, has always been creating beautiful pieces of art. After working for the mechanical engineering firm, Matt decided it was time to bring his ideas to life. He relocated to southern Utah and opened a metal studio. His works of art are

featured in several homes on the Parade of Homes circuit. You can drive through many developments in St. George and find his custom gates keeping homes secure. His work can be seen in several developments in St. George, including Stone Cliff, The Ledges, Kachina Springs, Kayenta, and Sky Ranch. Most of Mattâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inspiration is derived from Native American design. He found inspiration in the beautiful desert landscape of southern Utah. You will notice that the common theme among his pieces is southwestern style. Matt is also an avid outdoorsman. If he is not working, he can be found somewhere on a mountain. He has traveled all over the western United States, skiing, wind surfing, and desert racing. Now that his shop is fully functional in Mesquite, he is ready to create custom masterpieces for any home. Several of his pieces can be seen in the pictures accompanying this article, but there are many more where those came from. One of his most prized pieces is his Thunderbird sculpture. One of these Thunderbird sculptures greets visitors as they walk in the front door of his home. Measuring four feet tall and five feet wide, it is one of his biggest and most time consuming works. Nestled in a knotty alder wood frame, is a beautiful bird made entirely out of metal.

One thing that makes his work so unique is the lack of paints or dyes. He changes the color of his metal by drawing the natural colors in the metal with heat. He calls it painting with heat. He was always fascinated by the rainbow of colors that appear on the metalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s surface when heat is applied. The colors are stunningly rich, and range from straw-gold and copper-burgundy, to violet-purple and deep shades of blue. The vivid colors are actually a thin surface oxidation. When the heated metal meets the atmosphere, colors are very fragile and soon fade, or disappear altogether. To avoid this problem Matt had to find a way

to seal and preserve the colors in place. His Thunderbird is a beautiful example of this process. There are several other items that Matt has made over the years. Among the most popular are the metal gates and storm doors. He uses a special trick to get the vibrant colorsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;patinasâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;you see on the gates. It is a chemical process that oxidizes the metal, which adds color. It took some trial and error to figure out exactly how to get the most beautiful colors. When he first moved to St. George, he tried just about everything to get the color process correct. Some of the things he tried to use were household products, such as salt, vinegar, ammonia, lemon juice, and hot sauce. There was a definite learning curve, but now that he has the process figured out, it makes for some

beautiful artwork. He has numerous design plans, and can also custom make anything you can imagine. Another piece of art that Matt likes to create are his custom water fountains. He uses a variety of local materials to create each fountain. None of the fountains will ever be exactly the same; each one will be uniquely different based on the material he uses. Some materials he has used for his fountains are sandstone, river rock, volcanic rock, petrified wood, granite, and slate. Several of Mattâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pieces are large, but he also creates small, interior decorating pieces that add distinction to any room. He can create almost anything, but some key pieces are his exterior sconce lights, end table lamps, bookends, picture frames, mirrors, and yard sculptures. Mojave Metal Works is now a fully functional design studio, and Matt is ready to create beautiful works of art for the citizens of Mesquite and the surrounding areas. He is excited to create new masterpieces for his neighbors and friends.V For more information, contact Matt Thomas at (702) 279-3497 or mojavemetalworks.mt@yahoo.com.

From Sunflowers to Evening Primrose:

Cedar Breaks National Monument’s Annual Wildflower Festival by Kenzie Lundberg, Cedar City • Brian Head Tourism Bureau

Columbine, Cedar Breaks National Monument.

edar Breaks National Monument is tucked in the mountains just east of Cedar City, in the heart of southern Utah’s national parks. High atop the Markagunt Plateau, this giant amphitheater is over 2,500 feet deep and more than three miles across. Formed with

an abundance of minerals, the colorful cliffs are awe-inspiring.

Shooting Star, and Marsh Marigolds are also on the commonly spotted list.

Each summer the color multiplies as a spectacular display of wildflowers fills the grassy meadows and lines the trails of Cedar Breaks National Monument. Starting in late June and peaking in midJuly, Cedar Breaks celebrates the stunning wildflower bloom with an annual festival.

“One of the really fun things is that the flowers in bloom change from day to day, depending on where you are,” says Shannon Eberhard, Cedar Breaks National Monument Park Ranger. “It’s like if you sit and see the clouds move, but instead of the sky always changing, it’s the landscape. It really enlightens you to the diversity that’s out there.”

Early bloomers such as Cushion Phlox, Kittentails, and Aspen Bluebells emerge in late June, but to join in the Wildflower Festival activities and catch the peak bloom, plan a visit between July 8 through July 23. As part of the Wildflower Festival, specialists offer guided hikes twice daily, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Family-friendly activities are available each weekend from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Cedar Breaks Visitor Center. With over 250 species of wildflowers blooming in the park, it is hard to see them all. Popular wildflower sightings are Colorado Columbine, Aspen Bluebells, Elkweed, Indian Paintbrush, Sunflowers, and Yellow Evening Primrose. Aster, Flax, Fireweed, Larkspur, Lupine, Pretty

With so many sites to take in, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Plan a scenic drive or a walk along the Alpine Pond Trail for an enjoyable, stress-free afternoon. Take the Drive—The Summer Color Loop A highlight of the fall season as well, this scenic loop is an easy way to see not only the wildflowers in Cedar Breaks, but also the summer beauty of the canyons. The loop offers beautiful views of the rock formations, meadows, and forests. Beginning in Parowan, take Highway 143 through Parowan Canyon. Just after Brian Head take a trip to Brian Head Peak for an eagle-eye view of the wildflowers and

panorama of three states. Heading back to Highway 143, continue into Cedar Breaks National Monument via Highway 148. Follow the road through the park, stopping at any of the four overlooks or trailheads, then continue south to Highway 14. To finish the loop, turn west onto Highway 14. Add to the experience by stopping at Navajo Lake and the Zion Overlook, and then continue into Cedar City. Follow the Trailâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Alpine Pond Loop While there are multiple trails within the monument, a local favorite for wildflower spotting is the Alpine Pond Loop. This two-mile trail is a double loop through forest and meadows, offering excellent views of the Breaks, along with meadows of wildflowers, spruce-fir-aspen forest, and ancient deposits of volcanic materials. Located halfway through the loop is the natural, spring-fed Alpine Pond. Keep in mind that this is a highcountry trail. Be prepared with a good supply of water, good hiking shoes, sun-screen, and plenty of time. For a shorter hike, take the cut-off at the pond to make the hike a one-mile loop. Travel Information The Cedar Breaks National Monument Visitor Center is open every day, mid-June through mid-October, from 8 p.m. to 6 p.m. The entrance fee for the monument is five dollars per person. The Visitor Center and Fee Station are located at Point Supreme. Wildflowers along Alpine Pond Trail.

The Cedar Breaks Campground is generally open from mid-June through September. Most sites are on a first come, first served basis; however, a few sites are by advance reservation at www.recreation.gov. Comfortable lodging, restaurants, and outdoor shops are located four miles north in Brian Head.V For more information on Cedar Breaks National Monument and the Wildflower Festival, visit www.nps.gov/cebr. Cedar Breaks also offers a free app to learn more about the wildflowers: The Wildflowers of Cedar Breaks National Monument. The app provides an easy way for visitors to identify over one hundred of the most common wildflowers. It is available for iOS and most Android devices. Wildflower in Cedar Breaks National Monument.

Ag students tend the lush vegetables they raise in their greenhouse.

VVHS Students Focus on Career Skills

by Linda Faas igh on the hill above Mesquite, Virgin Valley High School, VVHS, enjoys a commanding view of town. From that vantage point, young people who are learning practical skills such as organic gardening, cabinetry, computer programming, applied math, and leadership are finding their dreams of a good career can come true. An educational revolution is improving the way VVHS serves its students. After many years of emphasis on college as the only

path to success, technical training is again being recognized for its solid career value.

A total of nine sets of three-year career and technical education courses provide VVHS graduates with proficiency certificates and/or college credits as they earn their high school diplomas. Graduates use those certificates and credits to move into solid jobs, or shave semesters off the time and tuition spent earning a college degree. For instance, Snow College of

Kris Leavitt took the blue ribbon with his bedside cabinet.

Richfield, Utah, works with VVHS to provide woodworking students with college elective credits that count toward a college associate or bachelor’s degree. When instructor Jon Felix was hired at VVHS, he found a wood shop filled with outdated equipment and a sagging class enrollment. The master woodworker could see that building a classic butcher block cutting board was no longer cutting it to keep students engaged in the age of technology. “Students, you are going to build bedside cabinets for your room,” he told his amazed first-year class. That caught their attention, and the adventure began. “There is nothing like that sense of accomplishment that comes from seeing they can make beautiful things with their own hands,” Felix says. “It gives them confidence to try and succeed with tough challenges of all sorts. I teach them how to make that cabinet because it is complex enough to keep their interest, easy to personalize with laser-engraved names and logos, and a beautiful, lasting piece of real furniture.” The cabinet is a lifetime testament to its maker’s skills.

Walking into the VVHS woodworking shop today is like visiting a modern furniture factory. Felix has obtained new equipment by applying for federal Perkins Grants and consistently pressuring the Clark County School District to provide top-notch tools for the willing students to learn how to use them safely and professionally. He points out that each student project requires exacting math calculations, precision handling of materials and tools, and careful budgeting to assure that the project comes in at its anticipated cost.

the student projects. That vote of confidence was reflected in parents’ smiles as they proudly introduced friends to their teenagers who had mastered skills from goats to graphics, lasers to leadership. The students were the stars of a stellar evening where many career dreams came into focus. V Individuals or organizations wishing to support the VVHS Career Technical Education, CTE, program should contact Maury Putnam, CTE Coordinator, at 702-346-2780.

Students pay a $20 lab fee for each class, as well as the cost of lumber for the project they select. Felix explains, “Everybody learns to estimate the cost of materials needed to build what they want. There are grants available for kids who need financial help.” The bedside cabinets price out at $60-$100. Advanced projects, built with woods such as walnut, might cost $400. In every case, their finished cabinets would have cost at least twice as much to buy in a furniture store—a life lesson in the economics of do-it-yourself, DIY. Next door to the woodworking shop, agriculture students busily prepare to grow organic vegetables in the school greenhouse, care for animals, and master the important skills of leadership. These Calee Clem glues wood strips while Meleena Felshaw prepares to us router on her wood frame. students are proud to carry on the Virgin Valley agricultural tradition. Teacher Jeri Lynn Bunell says, “We are excited that we will team with Star Nursery to offer after-school and summer internships for some of our students.” This is another step in helping young people learn meaningful skills that they can carry into a career or valuable avocation. Third-year agriculture students participate in leadership training aimed at building abilities of project formulation and execution. Class members organize school activities, such as the recent Career and Technical Education Fair, to help pay for their annual trip to the state leadership conference. Putting together a public event requires work and planning. They made community contacts to publicize the event, wrote a timeline of tasks to be completed, and oversaw the general organization of the fair held on May 2. On fair night, agriculture students made and sold lovely floral arrangements, and showed off their chicks, goats, and horses to parents and community guests. Mr. Felix’s woodworkers gathered their impressive display of fine furniture in the student center where ribbons were awarded for best work. Student photographers and artists showed samples of their work while the computer lab students demonstrated computer games they had programmed. Culinary arts students offered meatball sliders and other choice treats for sale. The automotive arts students showed off their cars on the plaza. Gerri Chasko of the Eureka Resort’s Community Initiative, was on hand to cheer on the culinary arts students who are sponsored by ECI. “I really feel good about VVHS,” she said, surveying

view on THE ARTS

ARTé Gallery

hat happened in Vegas eighteen years ago just couldn't stay in Vegas. So, the success was reinvented in southern Utah. ARTé owners, Philip and Brenda Moulton, now in their nineteenth year, opened their St. George location in 2008. It was a mediocre one hundred square foot office space at the old Moore's Business Forms warehouse. The gallery and framing facility has since evolved to over seventyfive hundred square feet. "One of our clients in Vegas was the magician Steve Wyrick. We built, transported, and installed huge canvas art pieces for his unique home. Our son, Bryan, and I climbed two ladders to install seven-by-ten foot framed canvases onto a twenty foot wall. The magician was impressed with our own bit of magic," said Philip. ARTé Gallery of St. George now offers Mobile Picture Framing services. Similar

to other mobile services, the ARTé box van, colorfully designed by muralist Joni Haws, and equipped with hundreds of mat and frame samples, travels on request to homes and offices. "The colors and lighting

at a client's location are different from that at our framing counter," explains Philip. "This way, we can achieve the very best color matching possible for a particular design look. This innovative concept, Monkeys in the Kitchen by Mia Lana Acosta.

which we initiated in Vegas, called ART VISIONS was an instant hit. Designers, homeowners, new businesses, and hotels keep us busy." ARTé's mobile van will also pick up or deliver art pieces, mirrors, etc., and provides art installation as well. "We have found that many clients would prefer to have a mobile service assistance, saving time and the hassle of transporting large art or mirrors," Brenda explains. "We can also provide several art catalogs to those interested in a particular look or color scheme." Catalogs provide a true color match in their pages, unlike the colors provided via computer screen. There are few monitors that portray the subtleties of color in artworks, whereas catalogs are very true to color. Another unique feature of ARTé is its recent and ongoing showcasing of local high school artworks. Artist Emily Shumacher of Tuacahn High School now works part time at ARTé Gallery. The newest and most exciting protege of ARTé is Mia Lana Acosta of Las Vegas. "Rarely do I encounter and instruct art students of Mia's caliber," Philip says. At age thirteen she has completed her first refined art piece called Monkeys in the Kitchen, and has created an edition of only ten of this whimsical pencil art piece. This is just the beginning of the great works to be presented by Mia, a very dedicated young artist. ARTé, the urban style gallery, with over five hundred works of art, along with affordable framing, is constantly using its space

ARTé Gallery introduces ARTé Mobile Picture Framing.

and creative juices in unique and productive ways. From birthday parties to wine clubs, it is a great spot for business or private parties, recitals, etc. Book a free event at a great location by calling Philip and Brenda.

In such a computerized and competitive business world, business owners like the Moultons are finding ways to raise eyebrows while raising their bottom line. Homeowners know what they want, and motivated specialists can assist in their choices in completing home or office design. ARTé suggests to stay local when choosing to better benefit our communities. ARTé can be contacted at 435-862-0303. They are located at 415 S. Dixie Drive, St. George, Utah. You can find them on the web at, www.artegalleryandframe.comV

view on BUSINESS

Even Stevens by Adele Park

Eat to Give

here is such a thing as a free lunch when it comes to helping feed the hungry. Even Stevens, a restaurant chain with fourteen stores in Utah, Arizona, and Idaho has built its entire business model on benefiting those dealing with food insecurity. The plan is simple, for every sandwich they sell, Even Stevens donates a sandwich to a nonprofit

agency which includes a food component as part of their services. So far, Even Stevens has donated the equivalent of nearly 1.4 million sandwiches to nonprofit organizations in the areas they serve. Food with a Mission In a country with such abundance, it is a shocking statistic that one in eight

Americans do not have enough to eat. The sandwich with a cause business strategy crafted by Even Stevens is working to change that. While the plan is described as a sandwich giveback, Even Stevens does not actually provide nonprofits with the same number of sandwiches they sell. Instead of an item for item donation, groups who benefit from the program receive an equivalent amount of food from Sysco, a food distribution network. Nonprofits that are part of the giveback program can choose from eightyfive different foods offered by Sysco. Samuel Grenny, Director of Community Engagement for Even Stevens, says this allows nonprofits the flexibility to order what they want when they need it most. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We allow their funds to roll over monthto-month so they don't feel like they have to order food that might later get wasted.â&#x20AC;? How can they pull all this off and remain in business? Grenny says the giveback program is funded through what traditional restaurants spend on marketing. Rather than spending a lot of money on advertising, Even Stevens relies on support

from groups they serve to advocate on their behalf. So far, Grenny says the word-of-mouth marketing plan has worked well. “Now three years into this, even we have been surprised by the extent to which this has taken place.” Putting Thier Money Where Their Mouth Is Each Even Stevens Restaurant chooses four nonprofit organizations in their community as recipients of the giveback program. In St. George, these groups are Switchpoint, the Utah Food Bank, the Dove Center, and the Learning Center for Families. Each of these organizations provide unique services which weave the common thread of helping clients facing food insecurity. For example, the Dove Center provides emergency shelter and crisis intervention for victims of domestic violence. The Learning Center for Families, TLC, focuses on helping children get off to a good start with medical screenings, educational programs, and mental health services. TLC uses donations from Even Stevens to provide nutritional meals for families with young children. TLC Chief Executive Officer Suzanne Leonelli notes that proper nutrition plays a huge role in infant brain development. “Research shows eighty-five percent of brain development occurs within the first three years of life.” Each time Even Stevens opens a new restaurant, a director from the Cause Department spends time in the community assessing which nonprofits have a food-centric mission. These organizations must meet specific criteria and have a proven track record for the services they provide. Think Globally, Act Locally As is becoming a trend in many communities, Even Stevens buys as much locally grown and produced products as possible. For example, the Even Stevens in St. George sells beer from several Utah breweries, coffee from River Rock Roasting Company in LaVerkin, Pepperlane Jelly from Midway, and goodies from Cravings Gourmet Bakery in Santa Clara. Even Stevens tries to encourage other companies to adopt socially conscious business models through leading by example.

Stevens. Customers are drawn to the family-friendly and petfriendly environment. Even Stevens Restaurants have become hubs for live music and other events like Paint Night and Trivia Night. Jason Ball, Experience Creator at the Even Stevens in St. George, says the management philosophy centers on this kind of energy. “The staff gets along very well with each other. It feels like a big, happy family.” Even Stevens has a neutral stance on politics and religion, which makes it a welcoming place to work. As their employee moto states, "Be Who You Is, Have the Difficult Conversations, and Be Present." With all the positive vibes involving the giveback program, customers at Even Stevens are sure to have a unique dining experience. Do your part and Eat to Give.V

Fresh Taste on Nostalgic Foods The food at Even Stevens is familiar, yet wonderfully different at the same time. For example, the pot roast dip sandwich has all the usual ingredients such as beef and cheese, and features a distinctive addition of red onion and jalapeno jelly. Many of the sandwiches also boast an international flavor with ingredients such as chorizo, garlic aioli, soy-glazed pork belly, and roasted red pepper hummus. Patrons say the giveback program makes the food all the more delicious. One customer, Theresa Fox, remarked that she was happy to dine at a restaurant which donates Sysco food vouchers to nonprofits serving the underprivileged. “They don't give leftovers to people in need, but fresh bread, meats and vegetables,” Fox says. “Thank you, Even Stevens, for helping to combat hunger!” A Different Business Model The Eat to Give program is not the only thing unique about Even

The Rising Star Sports Ranch Leadership Summit Wraps Up With Huge Donation

ising Star Sports Ranch CEO Greg Lee has built a business foundation predicated upon innovation and giving back to the community. For almost twenty years, the Lee family has owned and operated the Eureka Casino Resort in Mesquite, Nevada. In 2016, the family built and opened the new, innovative Sports Resort, The Rising Star Sports Ranch Resort. On May 19-21, Rising Star Ranch hosted its inaugural Sports Leadership Summit, an event designed to assist in building winning organizational systems and cultures for coaches, athletic directors, and individuals in the business of sports. Some of the speakers for the weekend included UNLV men’s basketball coach, Marvin Menzies, UNLV men's football coach, Tony Sanchez, UNLV women's volleyball coach, Cindy Frederick,

Left to Right: Andre Carrier, Dana Altman, and Greg Lee

University of Redlands men's soccer coach, Ralph Perez, and soccer legend, Cobi Jones. Upon concluding the Summit’s last Q&A segment, keynote speaker and University of Oregon men’s basketball coach, Dana Altman announced he would be donating his speaking fee in Lee’s name to the charity, Coaches vs. Cancer. The announcement came as a surprise to Lee. “I was so inspired by his commitment and generosity that I agreed to match it,” subsequently boosting the initial give to kick off the Coaches vs. Cancer Las Vegas event with a generous donation of $40,000. Altman, a 2017 Final Four coach, was named to the Coaches vs. Cancer alldecade team at the Las Vegas event founded by former UNLV men’s basketball coach, Lon Kruger the next day. Lee also attended the charity’s affair.

Coaches, athletic directors, and trainers gathered to hear from speakers representing a broad range of experiences and subject matter expertise, along with networking and a long-drive competition. In his opening remarks, the Summit Rising Star COO and Co-Founder Andre Carrier said, “We built this Ranch, this Sports Ranch, for you all to have the best possible eco-system to do your divine work of helping our next generation be their best selves. We built it to take stress away from families during tournament weekends, and to put more vacation and fun back into that time. We built it as a place where serious elite training can be done, and where serious long-term friendships can be made.” DeShawn Henry, head boys basketball coach of Durango High School brought several staff members to the Summit. “In my seventeen years of coaching, the

Rising Star Sports Leadership Summit was one of the best coaching experiences I have ever been a part of,” he raved. The Sports and Leadership Summit and Lee’s donation to Coaches vs. Cancer resonated on a professional and personal level for one of the attendees. Jermaine Seagears holds private camps and lessons at Durango High School with Coach Henry. In November of 2016, he was diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Seagears has undergone several months of chemotherapy, radiation, and facial surgery to remove a tumor in a bone above his nose. The 29-year-old has spent his entire professional career working to inspire and give opportunities to young athletes. "An overflow of happiness was placed on my heart with Greg Lee’s donation to Coaches vs Cancer. Being a cancer survivor firsthand, heartfelt acts like these give me hope for others," Seagears reflected. Rising Star was designed to serve the needs of traveling youth sports teams and their guests, as well as vacationing golfers. With the convenience of every sporting venue and golf course within

Andre Carrier with men's basketball coach Marvin Menzies

a ten minute drive of the Rising Star, the property is a one-of-a-kind sports destination in the United States. Moreover, the resort is the intersection between hospitality, family, and sports. Coach Altman’s team mantra of “Sometimes you. Sometimes me. Always us.” resonated with CEO Greg Lee. “We’re a family business. Our customers, employees, and guests are part of a family that gives its best when they come to the Ranch.”

“The motto of Rising Star Sports Ranch is Bring Your Best; Bring it to the Ranch,” continued Lee. “We cannot ask players, coaches, and parents to bring their best selves unless we are prepared to be our best in service to them and to our community. The Summit and this donation to Coaches vs. Cancer is just one of the ways we are trying to be our best at the Ranch.” V

On The Town Great events are going on in southern Utah on a daily basis. Here, we bring you just a fraction of what’s happened lately.

by Alexa V. Morgan

IRONMAN 70.3 St. George photos by Donald Miralle/IRONMAN

early 2,500 professional and amateur athletes gathered at the starting line of the IRONMAN 70.3 St. George on Saturday, May 6. The course offered breathtaking southwestern scenery in abundance, winding from Sand Hollow Reservoir through the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, Snow Canyon, and on to the finish line in Historic Downtown St. George. An army of volunteers and spectators helped keep spirits up as racers were pushed to the limits of their endurance. Great Britain’s Alistair Brownlee made a bold statement at his IRONMAN debut, demolishing the course record in 3:41:58, more than three minutes faster than the previous record of 3:45.21 held by Jan Frodneo. The 29-year-old already holds two Olympic gold medals and has numerous world championship titles in triathlon. Fellow Brit and reigning IRONMAN 70.3 Women’s World Champion Holly Lawrence claimed another victory with her 4:12:07 finish, just over three minutes ahead of her fastest competitor. The St. George race is regarded as one of the toughest on the IRONMAN 70.3 circuit due to a bike and run course filled with brutal climbs, epic descents, and the heat. As the North American Pro Championship race, it offers seventy-five qualifying slots for the 2017 World Pro Championship in Tennessee.

Kayenta Street Painting Festival photos courtesy of Kayenta Arts Foundation

ver the weekend of April 29-30, the Kayenta Street Painting Festival again transformed the asphalt pathways of the Coyote Gulch Art Village into an explosion of colorful chalk art.

Visitors were able to witness the creations of eighteen professional artists and sixteen school teams coming to life. Houston-based artist Anat Ronen returned to the festival to paint a chalk square for a sponsoring business along with the featured mural, a jackrabbit. The pleasant mid-spring weather, live entertainment, food vendors, and eye-popping street art have made this event a favorite among southern Utah locals and tourists alike. Now in its seventh year, the festival helps support the Kayenta Arts Foundation and the newly constructed Kayenta Center for the Arts.

Sout hern Ut ah Equality Utah Celebration

he stunning outdoor setting of Kayenta’s Coyote Gulch Art Village provided a perfect backdrop for the Seventh Annual Equality Utah Celebration Saturday, May 20. Don’t Stop Believing was the theme for this evening of entertainment, fundraising, and inspiration. “This event creates a safe, loving space for us to celebrate who we are, and helps encourage and remind us that we are not alone,” event coordinator Linda Stay said. “It also reminds us [that] we must get engaged to help the work of Equality Utah.” The Excellence in Advocacy Award was presented to Elise West, Bobby Edwards, and John Meisner in recognition of their efforts to create a more inclusive community for all. Cleavage, alongside Minerva Shot and Lisa G, rocked the stage with an electric tribute to the music of the 80s. The celebration also included prize drawings, a silent auction, a photo booth, and an after party. Equality Utah is the state’s largest policy and advocacy organization working to secure equal rights and protections for LGBT Utahns and their families.

SunRiver Pet Festival photos courtesy of SunRiver St. George

ho let the dogs out? SunRiver St. George, at their Ninth Annual Pet Festival on Saturday, May 13. Doting owners from across Washington County brought their furry friends to enjoy animalrelated vendor booths, food, kids’ activities, and contests, including “best dressed” and “cutest pet.” The soft grass of the driving range helped keep everyone’s paws cool. Entertainment was provided by Lane Wood and the talented Zion Disc Dogs. “The Pet Festival is an event where all animals are welcome and is a time to celebrate our beloved pet family members, along with raising money for charity,” SunRiver St. George Lifestyle Manager Lisa McLeod said. “We have had camels, parrots, frogs, lizards, and much more, down our red carpet over the years. It is always fun to see who will come!” Proceeds were donated to PAWS and INKAS, nonprofits that aid local no-kill shelters in their mission of rescuing animals.

Congratulations to our Travel writer, Celece Seegmiller, and our Golf writer, Rob Krieger, on their marriage. View On Magazine is happy to be a part of their journey.

Now OďŹ&#x20AC;ering FREE Blind Installation 82

Solar Energy Rises in Savings with each Sunrise

by Laurel Beesley

local man in Kanab, Utah takes a quick break and checks the SunPower app on his phone. It is late morning, and it is already showing a reading of three to four kW of energy powering through his house, thanks to rooftop solar panels. He uses this energy to fuel the dishwasher, washing machine, and other appliances typical in any home or business. Today, like most days in southern Utah, the sun is the best host possible at his intimate bed and breakfast. Irrigation

for the garden and orchard, all in-home electricity, everything is being powered by inconspicuous panels on the roof. Not that far away, a rancher could be spending hours checking his water tanks, critical to maintaining the allotments where his herds graze. Riding out to check the water tanks can take hours and even days of valuable time, something a busy rancher has precious little of. Today, however, a rancher like Steve Clark is assisted by a solar powered solution. Like a growing number of other ranchers,

he can easily check his water tanks by opening his email to see whether water levels are low, are leaking, or have been vandalized. An alert on his phone lets him know if a problem has been detected. Solar is becoming the solution to many problems involved in keeping up with it all. In fact, second to the dog, the sun is turning into manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best friend. Southern Utah and southern Nevada have the best sun on earth, and the potential for harnessing that into energy that supports their populations of residents,

was to review issues facing ranchers and businesses in southern Utah, including the golden goose of tourism. The first day of their trip was spent visiting alternative energy sites, both solar and windmill.

ranches, and tourism without utilizing expensive fossil fuels and environmentally destructive mining. And that potential is still growing—falling costs for installation and improved technology are showing record growth in renewable energy. A newspaper article in spring of 2017 described a two-day fact-finding tour to southern Utah made by Utah legislators. The article was titled, Southern Utah Plans to Stay Green as Economy Heads Into the Black. The goal of those legislators

For Joel Briscoe, the House Minority Whip, it was an eye-opener. This was only his second trip into the spectacular rural regions of Utah that visitors from all over America and the world have fallen in love with. In response to his visit he said, “Giving everyone the opportunity to see the magnitude of solar power. . . can help them realize that it’s viable and worthy of future investments and expansion.” (The Spectrum, 4-20-17). For homeowners, investing in solar panels could help you save money, boost the value of your home, and reduce your carbon footprint. Not bad. Solar investors

and homeowners, Ashley and Markay Johnson, explain, “We live in an area where sun is the natural gift, a natural commodity, so why not use it in our lives? State and federal incentives help offset the initial startup costs. It’s going to save us money over time, which is wonderful, but I just love the idea of using nature and being part of owning our own system”. In southern Utah, the issue of tourism is always a good part of any businessoriented conversation. How does tourism benefit from solar and alternative energies? Do the domestic and foreign guests even think twice about the source of energy surrounding them? And do they care about green ecotourism? Yes, they certainly do. The United States is being overshadowed by other countries who take a far more progressive view on achieving alternative energy and commit to a new socioeconomic reality. This concern shows increasingly in the choices travelers make when deciding on where to stay. Ecotourism is not merely a passing fad; it

is a growing trend in decisions made by travelers. Search green sustainable accommodations, and dozens of sites appear. Trip Advisor, the online travel authority, awards deserving hosts with different levels of Green Leader awards. Frommers, a premier travel guide, acknowledges eco-hosts, as well as Expedia and other leading travel sites.

for nearly twice as many jobs in the electricity sector as all fossil fuels combined. It is a bright, new day coming.V

The world destination resort, Amangiri, is a desert wonder located near Lake Powell. It features super-power solar panels, fully accommodating all the energy needs of its very highend guests. Amangiri boasts the largest commercial solar PV installation in the state of Utah. Not far away, the popular Black Feather Tipi Bed and Breakfast in Kanab, Utah is also powered by solar. Whether large or small, all can benefit. Not to be left out, the National Parks are determined to set the gold standard when it comes to utilizing solar and educating visitors. Solar panels and new PV cells at the Grand Canyon are providing clean energy solutions without disturbing the fragile environment. At Zion National Park, serving the needs of over 1.5 million visitors a year, solar panels provide at least twenty percent of the power. Bryce Canyon National Park achieved their goal of zero net energy after installing high-efficiency American Made panels in the spring of 2015. For a virtual tour, visit YouTube for WeRtheBryceCanyonSolarArray. Solar projects boost local economy and save our irreplaceable natural resources. The International Energy Association has shown that jobs in the U.S. solar industry have experienced a nearly fifty-three percent growth over four years. For the first time ever, solar energy accounted for more new electricity generating capacity than any other resource. And with more than fifty thousand new jobs added last year, solar energy now accounts

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My Love of Gardening by Laurie Nelson-Barker

want to be a gardening rock star. I dream of picking fresh herbs, vegetables, and fruits from the greenhouse and garden year round, and living a blissful, plant-based existence without ever having to shop at Costcoâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;it is not happening.

Last year, my friend, Jen and I decided that planting in straw bales would be a great idea. The videos seduced us into thinking that it was easy, cheap, and fun. The makers of the videos enticed us with footage of giant, flourishing plants growing from just a few bales. In theory, one bale can be planted with several different varieties and can produce an entire salad without much effort. All you do is add the dressing. You probably have to buy the ingredients for the dressing at Costco, though.

Armed with our newfound knowledge, Jen and I began our quest to find straw bales. Several videos, online searches, and phone calls later, we located some bales for a reasonable price. I was confident the bales would alleviate all my gardening woes, so I bought several to go along the fence line of our yard. Even though individual bales were not very expensive, twelve of them quickly added up. I reasoned that I would probably recoup the expense with baskets of amazing produce. I was wrong. The bales were heavy, and neither of us had a flatbed trailer or a huge truck. Fortunately, our neighbor came to our rescue and picked up the bales for us. Once we managed to get the bales in place, we were ready to plant. Except, we werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. The bales needed to be

conditioned for around two weeks before planting. That involved nitrates, and Jen and I are now probably on some terrorist watch list. We may be banned from international air travel as well.

The procedure for conditioning straw bales is to put fertilizer on them, apply water, and let them cook. I even bought a meat thermometer, which is a rather strange purchase for a vegan, to check the internal temperature of the bales. My bales failed miserably. Green things started popping up, but died just as quickly. The bales were gopher-proof as promised, but not bug-proof, and the tomato worms were very happy to be provided with such a delectable smorgasbord of tempting tomato varieties. I did not, however, have the heart to chop those creepy looking

worms in half as one video suggested. I went back to Costco. I decided to try something different. I was not giving in to the allure of Costco again. When one of my clients offered me a nice divided bedframe, it seemed like the perfect option for a raised planter bed. I planted kale, spinach, mustard greens, and cabbage in each divided section. The gophers were stymied, but our large dog, Tess, was not. She decided that the raised bed made the perfect dog bed. After all, what could be more comfortable than a bed of dirt and spinach? She doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even like spinach. And she managed to snuff the life out of what I had so carefully cultivated. I went to Costco to buy spinach. My spouse planted fruit trees. The deer loved them. The bunnies adored the

greens we planted, and the gophers fed their entire village with the tomato plants they pulled into their tunnel. It is simply amazing that a huge, leafy plant laden with big, red tomatoes can disappear through a hole in the ground overnight. I am happy that the gopher family is eating well and

thriving, but wish they would thrive on something other than our tomato plants. Still, I acknowledge that they were here first, so I will continue to buy my tomatoes at Costco until I have the gardening dilemma solved. Which doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t appear to be anytime soon. Just saying. V

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Mix it up with

Mid-Century Modern story by Helen Houston photos by Robert Dastoli ust as the name implies, Mid-Century Modern spanned a period of roughly two and a half decades in the middle of the twentieth century, from the mid1940s to 1970. Its uncomplicated, fresh aesthetic arose from a desire to propel postwar America into the modern era and recast design through a bold new lens.

Mid-Century Modern’s emphasis is on pared-down forms, contemporary patterns, natural materials, and a seamless flow between indoors and out, creating a medley of functional comfort and chic

style. Despite the passage of time, MidCentury designs have remained a staple in interior architecture. In this article, I will cover a few of the fundamentals of how to realize Mid-Century Modern décor. And you will find practical examples to help draw ideas and inspiration. Pick the Right Colors Selecting color is always the first step to planning your interior, since it leads your furniture and décor selection. Most Mid-Century homes had walls covered in white paint. Why? Because it allowed for

the high-quality furnishings to take center stage. Mid-Century homeowners were proud of the craftsmanship of their homes and furnishings, and white paint let the rest of the room show off its lines. What an easy Mid-Century design solution! White walls and warm earthy tones, mostly from the natural wood furnishings, are central to the Mid-Century palette. But it will not do for this look to come across as too muted. A few strokes of rich, saturated color gives it strength and presence. Skip the blushing pinks and

pale lilacs. Bring in the rich teal, avocado, oxblood red, gold, tangerine, or all of the above—unexpected color combinations suit this style. Graphic Pattern—If You Dare There is nothing shy about Mid-Century Modern patterns. Bold, geometric, strong, sensuous curves, and whimsical motifs give rooms a strong graphic punch. Heavy, textural fabrics, such as burlap or nubby wool knits give patterns added weight. While most walls benefit from clean white lines, a touch of glamour in a dining room can be added by simply papering one wall with bold, glitzy wallpaper. Homeowners in this time period loved their bold, abstract, asymmetrical graphic prints.

“

How to make Mid-Century Modern, well, modern? Keep a 50s chill about you—the style is boldness and fun! can make a space look bigger by reflecting light into the room, or it can highlight a beautiful backyard landscape by placing it opposite a garden door or window. A

sunburst mirror is an icon of the era. It is simply a must-have accessory that shines Mid-Century into your home. There are plenty of originals or replicas to be found online or in stores. Try a Bar Cart If you have ever watched an episode of Mad Men, you know cocktail culture was almost as important as Don Draper’s hair gel. Embrace it by picking up your own bar cart and stocking it with vintage glassware, cocktail shakers, and ornate decanters. A bar cart for mixing drinks is a nostalgic, easy way to bring back the 1950’s. A bar cart can be wheeled from room to room for parties and entertaining, and is the perfect accessory for every Mid-Century Modern home.

Statement Lighting Sputnik chandeliers, Bubble lights, Arco Floor lamps—classic Mid-Century lighting pumps up a room's drama. Lighting fixtures from this era were so striking, their form and sculpture are enough to double as art. These fixtures are so powerful that it is best to let them have the spotlight—do not force them to compete with each other in a single space. Three or four in one room is like adding too much vermouth to your martini. Mid-Century table lamps lend themselves well to any space featuring low-slung furniture, and they are easy to find in vintage stores. Look for curvy bases in bold hues, paired with tall, slim lampshades. Period Art and Accents The Mid-Century days were so rich with innovative and talented artists. Their work reflected bold, new territory in the art world that perfectly complements this ground-breaking style. If you are not sitting on a Warhol original, you can look for affordable reproduction prints that reflect the style of Mid-Century masters. For that modern look, do not clutter your walls with too much artwork. Keep it simple and clean with a few bold pieces of art such as artistic metal wall plaques, or large graphic oils on canvas No matter what style of décor you choose, mirrors are the perfect design accessory. They add a light, airy feeling to any room in your home. If placed properly, a mirror

Iconic Furnishings Mid-Century style is not an all-or-nothing proposition. Even if you are more contemporary than retro, a single Mid-Century piece can warm up your space. As the style continues to grow in popularity, many retailers are stocking new pieces that evoke the feel of Mid-Century greats, but offer a slightly more streamlined silhouette and on-trend colors. Knockoffs and reinterpretations will give you the look, if not the pedigree. Yes, you can buy Egg chairs and Marshmallow sofas to drive and define your look. The history and nostalgia for the Mid-Century Modern movement is not showing signs of withering off into the old days. On the contrary, it seems the artistry and architectural genius of that time is only becoming more revered. Consider some of these style statements to give your home the vibe of days gone by.V Helen Houston is the owner of Staging Spaces, an accredited real estate staging firm located at 350 Falcon Ridge Parkway Bldg. 100. Contact Helen at (702) 346-0246 or Helen@stagingspaces.biz

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KITCHEN & BATH BOUTIQUE

by Suzan Feraco

elcome to my new Kitchen & Bath Boutique! Just like our hair, nails, makeup, and clothes occasionally need a makeover, so does our home. The most important rooms in our homes are the kitchen and bathrooms. Whether you are trying to sell or simply wish to take your home into the twenty-first century, Kitchen & Bath Boutique can help. Chalk paint is a custom paint made to give cabinets a distressed shabby chic look. You can choose the paint color to match your dĂŠcor, or go crazy and mix and match colors. Maybe you would want to paint the cabinets a creamy white with a little brown around the edges for a distressed look, and then paint your island barn red. Wow! Wallpapers that look like wainscoting, metal, or brick add color and texture. Using wainscoting wallpaper on the flat panel around the bar gives it a textured look and can be painted any color. Brick wallpaper behind your stove and bar adds flare. This is an inexpensive way to update the look of your kitchen, and it looks like the real deal.

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840 Pinnacle Court, Bldg 11 - Suite 103 • Mesquite, NV | Located on the Beautiful Oasis Golf Course Deb Parsley, Owner Knobs, knobs, knobs—there are hundreds to choose from. If you desire a romantic look in the master bath, you can pick glass knobs to give it some bling. How about a new shower curtain with hanging tassels, new fuzzy rugs, a new hamper, or hanging a small chandelier over the bathtub? It is simply amazing the look you can achieve with accessories. Maybe shabby chic is not your thing. Maybe you are a modern new wave kind of gal. The big new color this year is shades of grey. Flat panel cabinets with a coat of grey paint look ultramodern and fresh with clean lines. Greys are beautiful with stainless steel or black appliances. Before

A lot of kitchens include ledges above the cabinets. You can use these ledges to update your kitchen with different décor. Statues, vases, clocks, or your favorite dishes to add warmth and interest. Removing a couple of cabinet door fronts from the cabinets above the refrigerator or the microwave, or adding a plate rack above the fridge with colorful dishes or your favorite martini or margarita glasses instead of hiding them away can make the look of your kitchen pop. Use the outlet in the cabinet above the microwave to plug in a decorative night light to add charm. V Give me a call today and let me paint your kitchen, add texture to your walls, and get started on your new look. Kitchen & Bath Boutique Suzan Feraco (702) 328-0699.

After

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Why Organic Mulch by Paul Noe (a.k.a. Dr. Q)

s most of you know, there are basically two types of mulch: organic and inorganic. Organic mulch is made from products that were derived from living organisms, such as wood shavings, grass clippings, shredded bark, leaf mold, manure, or compost. Inorganic mulch is made from materials that are mineral or manufactured, such as decorative rock, decomposed granite, rubberized, or plastic materials. Both types of mulch are appropriate ground covers that help to conserve soil moisture, inhibit weed growth and protect soil from erosion.

However, organic mulch is the only type that actually works to condition and improve soil as it decomposes. It is one of the most important products we can use to protect and maintain healthy plants in our desert climate. Conserves Soil Moisture: Good organic mulch can reduce the rate of moisture evaporation from soil by as much as 40 percent, and when it is mixed into the soil around plant roots along with a layer on the surface when planting, it can make the difference between plants making it through our hot summers or withering up and dying. As the mulch continues to decompose, it adds spongy humus to the soil which helps it retain moisture even longer. Plus, the humus breaks down to humic acid which helps to counteract the alkaline in our soil. Improves Soil Texture and Conditioning: Organic mulch harbors lots of beneficial organisms which work to keep the soil moist and fluffy, improving the overall texture, and reducing the potential for soil compaction. This mulch is actually food for valuable soil creatures like earthworms and beneficial microbes that are essential to having a healthy soil, and thereby healthy plants. These organisms help the mulch to further

Is So Important decompose. As they do this, they are also processing nutrients for the plants, making the soil richer and more acidic. Regulates Soil Temperature: Another huge benefit from organic mulch is that it helps to regulate soil temperature. It actually keeps the soil below it considerably cooler than bare soil in the same area. Soil covered by 2 to 3 inches of organic mulch is 8 to 15 degrees cooler, and in the winter, it insulates the soil to keep it warmer to protect surface roots from freezing. A lack in organic matter in our desert soil, along with the lack of moisture it receives, makes it very difficult to grow things without the help of soil conditioners and amendments. Unless you want to grow only native desert plants in our soil, you have to add organic mulch when you plant, and continue to replenish it every year by adding it to the soil surface. The use of organic mulch is one of the best things you can do to turn our desert soil into productive soil for your plants. Whether it is from your own compost pile, or in packaged products like our Dr. Qâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s PAYDIRT Premium Planting Mix & Mulch, be sure to use a good organic mulch whenever you plant and as a surface mulch around all plants in your yard or garden! V PAUL NOE (a.k.a. Dr. Q) Staff Horticulturist/Certified Horticulture Advisor Star Nursery drq@starnursery.com

Saving Lives With MyID

by Kathleen Snow e all have medical information that should be easily available in case of an emergency. Whether it’s information on your blood type, or some serious health conditions, MyID has the most advanced medical ID products on the market to store your medical information. ENDIVR, Inc. sells MyID and PureStrength medical bands and products.

“MyID is the ultimate medical ID system available,” explained Skylar Schone, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “We offer an easy way for people to store, access, and manage all their medical information. The power of our products is in our simplicity, and the snapshot we create of one's medical situation and history.” According to Schone, MyID is a full-online extensive medical profile that is linked to MyID products. Once a profile is created, the information can be managed and

updated any time. There are three ways to access the profile on the inside of all their products: Scanning the Quick Response Code, logging into the website, or calling their toll-free number. They encourage individuals to manage their own health information to ensure they receive the best medical treatment and care. Tony Rivello, Kingman Fire Department Fire Service Veteran of 29 years, said, “First responders face many challenges during medical emergencies. However, a consistent and growing challenge is gaining access to accurate and up-todate personal health and emergency contact information. This is primarily true for our rapidly growing older adult population. MyID has proven to be the quickest and most efficient way for prehospital emergency personnel to gain secure access to potentially lifesaving information.”

Schone explained that MyID products come in many shapes and sizes, such as, bracelets, necklaces, keychains, stickers, wallet cards, and an app. These products are used by people in all walks of life to ensure peace of mind. They are suitable for athletes who train by themselves, such as cyclists, runners, and Ironman competitors. People with life-threatening allergies, medical conditions, memory loss, hearing loss, inability to communicate, or other important medical issues use MyID products for security. Parents can have peace of mind by having their child use MyID while they are at school or travelling. Lastly, there are those who just like to have a simple and safe way to store and access medical information. “I wanted something fashionable that I could wear with my dress clothes for work, but that would be identified by first responders, if needed, that it was a medical bracelet,” stated MyID customer,

Robyn. “I then found MyID. I have used my profile in the ER, and even to print off my profile for a surgery. I wear my MyID bracelet everyday without fail. I depend on it to communicate for me in an emergency if I am not able to.”

information is accessed. “Later this year, MyID will also become a pill reminder and habit-tracker, with many great new features. It is expected to be on the market at the beginning of the fourth quarter,” said Schone.

Schone has a condition in which he needs to wear a medical ID. “When I was diagnosed with heart failure in 2013 by Dr. Kent Gleed here at IHC in St. George, I was told to wear a medical ID bracelet,” explained Schone. “All the bracelets available limited me on what I could say. Medical conditions are specific and personal, and need to be shared. So MyID helps people communicate a lot of information quickly and accurately, ensuring accurate and quick treatment and help.”

“In 2015, I was taken 18 times via ambulance due to epilepsy or syncope,” said Kari S. “Communicating my conditions to the staff is a matter of life or death for me because I am fatally allergic to Imitrex and Maxalt, which are the two main rescue meds for migraines. In one instance, I had just had a seizure and could not even say my name. My husband had not yet arrived at the hospital, and they were about to administer Imitrex until a nurse stopped them based on the fax report she received from MyID. Who knows what may have happened if I had received that

MyID is growing in over 20 countries across the globe. As you travel, your medical information travels as well, and the profile will also translate into the language of the country in which it is scanned. The staff at MyID do all they can to improve what they offer and train first responders to improve the way healthcare

injection? Your product saved my life.”

ENDEVR® is located at 1224 South River Rd., Ste. B100, St. George, Ut. For more information, visit w ww.getmyid.com, or call 1-888-500-9720, or email info@endevr. com. Receive 20% off of any bracelet when using promo code v iewon20at checkout.

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MAKE THE MOST OF CEILING FANS by Keith Buchhalter, Public Affairs Specialist at Overton Power District No. 5

f you are like most Americans, you have at least one ceiling fan in your home. Ceiling fans help our indoor life feel more comfortable. They are a decorative addition to our homes and, if used properly, can help lower energy costs. By turning on the fan, you can turn up the energy savings!

Here are a few tips for making the most of your ceiling fans: • FLIP THE SWITCH. Most ceiling fans have a switch near the blades. In warm months, flip the switch so that the blades operate in a counterclockwise direction, effectively producing a wind-chill effect. Fans make the air near them feel cooler than it actually is. In cooler months, move the switch so the fan blades rotate clockwise, creating a gentle updraft. This pushes warm air down from the ceiling into occupied areas of the room. Regardless of the season, try operating the fan on it's lowest setting. • ADJUST YOUR THERMOSTAT. In the summer, when using a fan in conjunction with, or instead of an air conditioner, you can turn your thermostat up three to five degrees without any reduction in comfort. This saves money since a fan is less costly to run than an air conditioner. In the winter, lower your thermostat’s set-point by the same number of degrees. Ceiling fans push the warm air from the ceiling back down toward the living space, which means the furnace will not turn on as frequently. • CHOOSE THE RIGHT SIZE. Make sure your ceiling fan is the right size for the room. A fan that is thirty-six to forty-four inches in diameter will cool rooms up to 225 square feet. A fan that is fifty-two inches or more should be used to cool a larger space. • TURN IT OFF. When the room is unoccupied, turn the fan off. Fans are intended to cool people—not rooms. V

in Mesquite

Families Find a Bit of Heaven by Donna Eads

ithin the community of Sun City Mesquite, family ties are strong and family members enjoy living the lifestyle. Over fifty family members have found a little bit of heaven to share with their siblings as well as their friends. The biggest reason for choosing Sun City Mesquite, SCM, is the small town atmosphere with a beautiful blend of nearby mountains and deserts. Some of these family members have not lived near each other for years before moving to Sun City Mesquite, so they are enjoying their time together. Many of these people wanted to get away from the winter snow, like Ava and John Schudder from Colorado who encouraged his sister, Suzanne, and brother-in-law, Randy Saltzman, to move from Wisconsin to SCM. After spending time here, they bought their own place in SCM. “We all

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Stan and Steven Hermie as children

agree it has been an exhilarating, energypacked, enlightening, and fantastic adventure. The most wonderful thing about Sun City and all of Mesquite is the people who give of their time and talents to make this town a better place to live. Mesquite

Stan and Steven Hermie

should be recognized as the Volunteer Capital of the U.S.!” They know that living close is important, and have shared this adventure for nine years. They share hiking, trips, lectures, shows, and other activities, and are “still proud to tell those

Brothers, David and Larry Stineman as children

who aren’t from here that we live in Sun City Mesquite in Mesquite, Nevada.” Our beautiful desert and climate have brought many siblings together again. Sisters Mary Ann Piner and Carolyn Wingeier state that this is “the first time we have lived near each other in fifty years. We can’t imagine living anywhere

else.” Another reason for being here is the “friendliness and being able to meet people from different places in different walks of life.” The sisters play bocce ball and do water aerobics together. They came together to adopt their pets, one cat and one dog, from the local animal shelter once they were settled. “We both love it here!”

Lorraine and Jim Deshayes, Larry Deshayes, John and Denise (Deshayes) Mackinnon

David and Larry Stineman

Sisters Diane Van Dyke and Debbie Campbell have not lived in the same town since childhood. Both sisters are very talented, and perform with the Sun City Sounds and the Sun City Stage Club. “We bicker just like sisters do, and we have a lot of laughs. Sun City has certainly been a great move for us.” Lifelong Minnesota resident, Mary Ann Hovde always dreamed “to someday move to a warmer climate.” So when her sister, Jane Burgoyne, moved to SCM in 2009, “it was love at first sight and I could not have made a better choice . . . since it is so nice to have family close by.” Another reason they love living in Mesquite is the “affordable cost of living and low taxes, and don’t forget to mention all the friendly folks.” They take scenic road trips and enjoy the beautiful areas of the west, as well as Zumba and bunco. Mary Ann and her dog, Mack “have made a lot of new friends and are always busy.” David and Linda Stineman from Illinois first bought a condo to share with family members here in Mesquite. Once the development of SCM was underway, they decided to sell the condo and build their retirement home. So in 2008, they retired to Mesquite and had family visiting them often. Brother Larry and his wife, Mary “were very impressed with our new home and toured the models before returning home.” The rest, as they say, is history as they bought a house in Water Barrel. Now they live only five minutes apart and plan once-a-month dinners to share. They all feel fortunate to have their many friends and neighbors and say, “We like the small town atmosphere of Mesquite, the natural beauty of the area, and enjoy daily walks

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Suzanne and John Scudder as children

through the Del Webb community. We have found our forever homes!” The Hermie brothers, Steven and Stan, also left Illinois to enjoy the warmth and value of Mesquite. They found that they actually have more quality time with their family by living here. They appreciate the outdoor activities and love the simplicity of Mesquite. For three siblings that moved to SCM, it was about the location, the cost of living, the lack of traffic, and living near each other that was important. Jim and Lorraine Deshayes moved to SCM at the beginning of the project, and Lorraine has been an employee with the Pioneer Center from the start. The added extra for Jim and Lorraine is that their children and grandchildren are nearby in Las Vegas. Jim’s brother, Larry,

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decided to make Mesquite his home as well. Both of them, plus brother-in-law, John, enjoy going on ATV trips. Sister, Denise and her husband, John, retired from Hawaii to come to SCM in 2015. "We have enjoyed our wonderful neighbors along with the activities, clubs, and outings offered within the community. We love the fact that there is family in close proximity, and we get together often for outings and dinners and share many laughs and memories that only siblings have.” As Sun City Mesquite enters its tenth year, more adventures are being shared with family and friends.

Suzanne Scudder Saltzman and John Scudder

The overwhelming opinion of all these residents is that this beautiful place known as Mesquite is the place “we can call home.”V

Sisters Mary Ann Hovde and Jane Burgoyne

The Reserve

Premier Properties

104 photos by Sharon K Karr Photography

WHITE POCKETâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;A STUNNING MYSTERY by Laurel Beesley photos by David Swindler, Action Photo Tours

ack in the early 1900s, cattle ranchers brought herds to an area in southern Utah known as White Pocket, and settled in for a seven or eight day stay while their cattle watered. The land outside of White Pocket was sparse and dry, but those odd little pocket-shaped bowls nature had carved in the rock at White Pocket provided a great natural catchment for rainwater the ranchers needed. By 1920, a few cement barricades helped direct water into the pockets. This is the backstory of a place I almost do not want to publicize because, in countless ways, it is so special.

Not so long ago, local ranchers and some intrepid photographers were the only ones who knew about White Pocket. Difficult to find, hard to reach, it remained one of the best kept secrets of southern Utah. Barely seven miles away, the famous Wave formation had already captured the imagination of people worldwide. Strictly guarded by a twenty-visitors-a-day protective permitting, it still exerts its siren call. The enticing sandstone curves of the Wave were formed eons ago during the Jurassic period, and its geology is easily

explained. Not so for White Pocket. It is a geologic anomaly that still defies explanation or easy description. Imagine huge cones and balls of rock with colorful pink, yellow, and white layers that swirl and twist inside themselves like the layers in a rainbow cake. The contortions of rock are breathtakingly unimaginable, creating bowls and towers of rock that sit at impossible angles. It is one of the strangest rock formations in a region where exceptional and unusual are simplyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;normal. White Pocket is baffling, beautiful, and incredibly changeable.

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So far, despite being unpermitted, you can usually have all this jaw dropping work of nature to yourself. White Pocket could be a result of soft, twisted sediment with contortions dating back to the Jurassic period, or it could be the result of a massive landslide triggered by an prehistoric earthquake eons ago. Typical of that time, masses of sand sliding down tall dunes ripped up chunks of the landscape and finally filled a large oasis. The pressure of the downslide created sand volcanos and moved laminated sand around to create a fantasy land. We will probably never know exactly what created this bizarre deformation. Maybe even a meteorite. Whatever the reason for its chameleon-like character, White Pocket is changeable in a way the Wave is not. It is a remote location, not easily found, and is definitely not for the unprepared. Getting there is an adventure of its own, and for many it is best done with a guide. No matter the time of year, White Pocket will prove to be magical as well as mysterious. Spring is when the sky is bluest, and wildflowers erupt by June. Monsoon storms arrive in late July and continue through mid-September, with another wildflower bloom late in September. The rainstorms fill the myriad pockets of rock, reflecting the violent sky, and then the returning sun. Later in the fall, the elements stabilize with clear skies and dry weather. Winter brings light snow falls, and ice creates new and

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beautiful patterns on top of the already complicated rock patterns. Photographers often prefer White Pocket to the Wave because of its surprising complexity. The unexpected rock patterns offer so many different compositions, it is a never-ending challenge, and the sunrises and sunsets at White Pocket are more extreme than at the Wave. One awestruck photographer commented, â&#x20AC;&#x153;It has the most insane skies!â&#x20AC;? As night falls, you can hear owls and coyotes. And keep your eyes open for an occasional bobcat boldly walking by. If you know where to look, there are petroglyphs and ancient Indian remnants. White Pocket is both magic and mystery. V BE ADVISED: Travel to White Pocket is not recommended in anything other than a high-carriage 4x4, and requires experience in serious backcountry driving. Outdoor guides are available in Kanab, including Kanab Western Adventures and Dreamland Safari Tours. Photographer David Swindler of Action Photo Tours considers White Pocket one of his favorite places, and will take his photography clients there for both day trips and overnight trips.

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The Importance of Rural Hospitals In Our Healthcare System by Mesa View Regional Hospital CEO, Patty Holden

ay of this year marked the first-ever National Rural Health Week, and Mesa View Regional Hospital in Mesquite joined community hospitals and caregivers across the nation to highlight the positive impact on the patients we care for and the communities we serve. When you hear rural community, you may think small town. However, when combining the population of areas like ours across the country, it equals nearly 60 million people, or one in five Americans. At the heart of many of those communities is the local hospital. The obvious benefit that a hospital like ours provides is also our most vital benefit: timely access to health care. Whether you need emergency treatment or a routine procedure, providing local access to care is essential. When time matters most, having access to essential healthcare can mean the difference between life and death. The impact that rural hospitals make on their communities extends far beyond medical capabilities. In many rural areas, the hospital is the largest or second largest employer in the area it serves. Mesa View Regional Hospital takes pride in supporting our local economy by being one of the top six largest employers in our area. Healthcare works best when it is local, working specifically to solve issues that are important and relevant to the community. Mesa View has served the Mesquite and Moapa Valley areas since 2004. During that time, we have helped close to 100,000 people receive care, and provided 24/7 emergency services—all thanks to the never-ending commitment of our clinical and support staff. We are honored to have a staff of dedicated individuals who see health care not only as a job, but as a personal calling. The goal of Rural Health Week is to raise awareness about our impact nationwide. We want to spread the word about the importance of rural healthcare to our friends and family in larger cities, and to our elected officials in Congress. You can help by joining the conversation on social media. Tell people what your hospital means to you and then use #StandUp4RuralHospitals. Working together, small towns can make a big impact on the future of healthcare. V Mesa View Regional Hospital is a 25-bed facility located in Mesquite, Nevada with skilled professional staff that offers award-winning quality and patient–focused healthcare. Mesa View provides a full range of inpatient and outpatient hospital services, including an Intensive Care Unit, Medical, Surgical, Orthopedics—Total Joint and Sports Medicine Program, Women’s Health, Laboratory, Cardiopulmonary Testing, Wound Care and Hyperbaric Center, Imaging and Emergency Medicine Services. Accredited Chest Pain Center, Top Performer on Key Quality Measures® by The Joint Commission, 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015. For more information, visit MesaViewHospital.com.

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Tennis TNT – Tips N Tricks – by Donna Eads

s the summer heat hits us hard on the courts, so should we hit back. Summertime is a great time to work on your footwork and partnerships. In the Hard and Fast Clinic I teach on Thursdays here at Sun City Mesquite, we start off with footwork drills to improve that first explosive step a player needs to reach a ball. Players run the lines of the court forward, backward, side-to-side, and jump the lines to develop strength and confidence. Added to these drills is running to a spot marked by a color, and shadow hitting a ball until you have hit at each color. This drill works on that big first explosive step and the small adjustment steps to get you to the right place in order to strike the ball. The go and stop drill, where a player is directed to move but stop or pause when their opponent hits the ball, is another essential drill. You have to learn when to put on the brakes. Partnerships must be developed not only by practicing together, but by learning how to use your partner’s best stroke to your team’s advantage. All great doubles teams talk and signal during play in order to work out their team’s best winning strategy. Practice poaching on a great serve or shot until each player knows what to do. During our Mesquite Senior Games, a couple of items came up that need to be remembered when playing in or watching a tournament. First, spectators are not allowed to call lines or correct the score during a match. Only the players have control of these issues. Second, moving a ball, a hat, or a visor that has fallen off during a point is considered a deliberate act, and is thus a hindrance. You can claim the point only if you stopped play immediately. And just a reminder, please hydrate during our hot summer months. See you on the courts!V

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Mesquite Senior Center Happenings

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

Senior Fitness (Chair)

Mon-Fri 10:30-11:15 AM Fee: $20 (13 Weeks/Jan-Mar) This class is free to Recreation Center Pass Holders. Fitness level: Moderate/Beginning Get fit while you sit in this chair exercise class that involves a combination of aerobic activity, strength-building, balance, Qigong, and stretching. This class is a low-intensity workout designed for older adults with joint challenges, utilizing light weights, mini-flex ball, and dyna-bands. Don't forget to bring your water bottle. Monday-Strength training Tuesday-Balance, breathing exercises and more Wednesday-Qigong-Jo Thursday-Balance, breathing, and flexibility exercises Friday-Cardio, stretch, and more

Know Your Legal Rights

Nevada Legal Services provides FREE community education on legal topics. Second Thursday of the month at 11:30 AM at the Mesquite Senior Center. For more information, please call (702) 386-0404, or visit www.nlslaw.net.

AARP Driver’s Safety Course

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

Alzheimer’s Support Group Meeting

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

Beginning Line Dance Friday-9 AM This class is perfect for beginners. Dancers will learn basic line dance steps. As the class progresses, week to week, more advanced dances will be incorporated into the mix. The EMPHASIS will be on learning while dancing and having fun. Come join the fun and meet new friends.

Nutrition Program

Lunch is served from 11 AM-12:30 PM Monday through Friday (except holidays) A $3.50 donation is suggested for 60 years and older. $5.00 fee for 59 and under. To inquire about Homebound delivery call 346-5290.

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AREA GOLF GUIDE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cedar Ridge - Cedar City cedarcity.org/65/Cedar-Ridge-Golf-Course (435) 586-2970

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

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

Conestoga - Mesquite conestogagolf.com/ (702) 346-4292

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

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

Coral Canyon - Washington coralcanyongolf.com (435) 688-1700

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

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

Coyote Springs - Coyote Springs (Moapa) coyotesprings.com (702) 422-1400

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

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

Coyote Willows - Mesquite coyotewillowsgolf.com (702) 345-3222

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

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BUSINESS CARD DIRECTORY

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CALENDAR of Event s JULY

Brian Head Town 4th of July Celebration July 1-4 Join Brian Head Town for four days of live music, artisan vendors, activities for the entire family, and the best Fourth of July fireworks show. Live bands will be performing throughout the day. See page 7 | brianhead.com/Events Kanab 4th of July Celebration July 4 Join Kanab for their 4th of July celebration Pride In Our Past, Faith In Our Future. You will be sure to enjoy a pancake breakfast, color fun run, parade, navajo taco lunch, vendor booths, games, water activities, live entertainment, dinner and much more! visitsouthernutah.com/Kanab-Fourth | (435) 644-5033

Moapa Valley 4th of July Celebration July 4 Join Moapa Valley at the Clark County Fairgrounds for a day of family fun and activities to celebrate Independence Day. moapavalleychamber.com Rockets Over the Red Mesa July 4 6 PM-10 PM Eureka Casino Resort hosts Home of the Brave—Saluting American Heroes in Mesquite, Nevada. The evening will feature the Nevada Pops Orchestra, a community vendor village, and a spectacular fireworks. FREE public viewing behind the Casino. Bring your own chairs. See page 26 | eurekamesquite.com | (702) 346-4600 St. George 4th of July Celebration July 4 6:30 AM-11 PM Bring the whole family for this fun filled extravaganza in Town Square. There will be music, food booths, a carnival, contests, Slip-n-Slides, a parade, 4k race, tons of games and more. Events will be going all day long, so there will be something for everyone in the family to enjoy. sgcity.org | (435) 627-4500 Comedy Machine July 7 8:30 PM CasaBlanca hosts three great comedians. Must be 21 or older to attend. Tickets on sale at www.startickets.com casablancaresort.com | (877) 438-2929

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Cedar Breaks Flower Festival July 8-23 Join a specialist on a guided hike and learn all about the different wildflowers. Guided hikes are offered twice daily and meet at the Visitor Center at 10 AM and 2 PM. You can also pick up a common wildflower checklist or a What's In Bloom handout and go on a self-guided walk. Familyfriendly games and activities are available on weekends from 10 AM to 3 PM in the Visitor Center. Park entry fees apply. See page 70 | nps.gov/cebr

Trailblazers Summer Concert Series July 8-Aug 29 DSU's Tanner Amphitheater is Utah's premier outdoor theater. Come and be inspired by the regions' best musical artists with the cliffs of Zion as a jaw-dropping backdrop. Shows include Rock Fest, Sanctuary: The Story of Zion, Collin Raye, Nathan Pacheco with the Lyceum Orchestra, and the Utah Symphony. Tickets are now on sale at www.octannershows.com. See page 42 | (435) 652-7800 Classic Rock Music Festival—Brian Head Town July 15-16 9:30 AM-10 PM Two days of live music, vendors, food, and activities. Yellow Brick Road will be headlining Saturday night along with local performers. Admission is Free. brianhead.com/Events Duck Creek Days 2017 July 21-22 10 AM-10 PM You won't want to miss Duck Creek Days. There will be vendor booths, a live band each night, activites and crafts for kids, CMFPD blood drive, a duck derby and of course a Chili Cook-Off. visitsouthernutah.com | duckcreekvillage.com Brian Head Town 3rd Annual Car Show July 22 9:30 AM-6 PM Check out 100s of the hottest cars around in Brian Head Resort’s 3rd Annual Car Show! Admission for spectators is free. Live bands will be performing throughout the day. Register your car for the show at brianheadcarshows.com. brianhead.com/Events

The Pioneer Legacy July 24 Enjoy a day of fun activities at the DSU Legend Solar Stadium, including the Dixie Pioneer Days of â&#x20AC;&#x2122;47 Parade, and the Pioneer Legacy & Firework Celebration. Admission is free. See page 49 | thepioneerlegacy.com | (801) 609-4327

3rd Annual BBQ, Blues, & Brews Aug 12 9 AM-6 PM Brian Head Town presents live music, activities for the whole family, and the best food and beer around while BBQ teams from all over throw down. Live bands will be performing throughout the day. brianhead.com/Events

AUGUST

Mesquite Works! Job Fair Aug 16 9 AM-1 PM Take advantage of this excellent opportunity to meet employers and interview for serveal positions during the course of the day. Rising Star Sports Ranch, 333 N. Sandhill Blvd., Mesquite. mesquiteworksnv.org | (702) 613-0699

FitCon St. George 2017 Aug 4-5 The Dixi Center in St. George, Utah presents FitCon, two days dedicated to health education and fitness. Expect to enjoy cutting edge seminars, exciting live fitness classes, fun obstacle courses, thrilling competitions, and numerous exhibitor booths. fitconutah.com 12th Annual Chamber Golf Tournament Aug 5 7 AM Mesquite, Nevada Chamber of Commerce hosts their Annual Chamber Golf Tournament, open to the public, at the The Palmer Course, Mesquite. To register, visit mesquitenvchamber.com. Casapoolooza Presents Lights Aug 5 7 PM Experience Mesquite nightlife poolside as CasaBlanca hosts Lights, A Premier Tribute to Journey. Admission is free. Must be 21 or older to attend. casablancaresort.com | (877) 438-2929 Festival of Flavors Aug 5 9:30 AM-6 PM Brian Head Resort hosts a family-friendly event with great food, and tastings from local Utah breweries, vineyards, and distilleries as well as wonderful live music, local artisan vendors, and all of our exciting base activities. See page 7 | brianhead.com/Events 2017 Kane County Fair Aug 8-12 Stop by Orderville, Utah at the Carroll Arena Event Center for the 2017 Kane County Fair. Enjoy a pageant, talent show, Jr. rodeo, kid zone, vendors, adventure, and so much more. thekanecountyfair.com Washington County Fair Aug 9-12 This years Annual Washington County Fair will feature a carnival, home arts, 4-H exhibits and baked goods, magic shows, contests, fair food, and more! washcofair.net | visitstgeorge.com

Western Legends Round-Up Aug 21-26 Kanab's celebration of film, music, poetry, and western heritage! Enjoy the Wagon Train, celebrity appearances, and autograph sessions with classic western film stars like Clint Walker, Western Street Fair, High Noon Parade, free live entertainment, barn dance, and much more! Visit www.westernlegendsroundup.com for more information. info@westernlegendsroundup.com | (435) 644-3444 Patriot Day Golf Tournament Aug 26 7 AM-12 PM Honor our veterans by registering your four person team for this charity golf tournament benefitting families of fallen and disabled service members. Entry fee is $45 per person/$180 per team. tournaments@mesquitegaming.com | (702) 346-4067 Hurricane, Utah's Peach Days Celebration Aug 31-Sep 2 Join Hurricane, Utah for their Annual Peach Days Celebration. This weekend of events will include vendors, rodeo, live entertainment, a parade, Pioneer Corner, 12K Fun Run, and the Peach Cook-Off. cityofhurricane.com/categories/about/events/peach-days/

SAVE THE DATE Sep 4-9 DOCUTAH See page 58 | docutah.com/

If you would like to be included in our calendar, please email your event information to

articles@viewonmagazine.com

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Ace Hardware. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 All Secure Storage LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 Anytime Fitness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73 Baird Painting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Bank of Nevada. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97 BeeHive Homes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 Bulldog Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Bella Horizon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75 C & K Shutters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107 Checks-N-Mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 Cherry Creek Mortgage Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 CityWide Home Loans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92 College of Southern Nevada. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106 Coyote Springs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Dave Amodt Photography. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Del Webb–SunCity Mesquite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85 Desert Oasis Spa & Salon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 Desert Pain Specialists. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Dixie State University. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 DOCUTAH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back Cover Dogtown Acres. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Eagles Landing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 ERA–Sharon Szarzi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 ERA–Gerry Gentile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 ERA–Patty Brooks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Eureka Casino Resort–Gregory's . . . . . . . . . Inside Front Cover Eureka Casino–Spa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Farmers Insurance–Bill Mitchell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Friends of Gold Butte. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Golden West Restaurant & Casino . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Great Clips. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Guillen–Heating, Cooling & Refrigeration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Guns & Guitars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 Hangey's Custom Upholstering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Helping Hands Caregivers, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Heritage Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 Iceberg Air Conditioning & Heating. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 Jennifer Hammond-Moore–Health Coach. . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 JL Kendrick Company Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 KCSG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111 Keller Williams–Beverly Powers Uhlir . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95 Keller Williams–Beverly Rineck. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Keller Williams–Bret Lower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Keller Williams–Deb Parsley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Keller Williams–Joan Fitton, Neil Sullivan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Keller Williams–Linda Jones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 Ken Garff Mesquite Ford. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Ken Garff Mesquite Ford–Dave Heath . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

Kitchen & Bath Boutique. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Kitchen Encounters/Classy Closets. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Kokopelli Landscaping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100 La de’ Paws Grooming Salon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Mesa View Regional Hospital. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 Mesquite Fine Arts Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Mesquite Home Theater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 Mesquite Regional Business, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Mesquite Tile & Flooring. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 Mesquite Veterinary Clinic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Mohave Dermatology. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Mojave Metal Works. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Mortgage Mate LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 MVP Productions–Kris Zurbas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 NRC–The Reserve–Shawn Glieden. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Nikk Zorbas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 Odyssey Landscaping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 Permanent Makeup Artist–Nicole Rowley. . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Pioneer Storage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Premier Properties–Kelly Murphy . . . . . . . . . Inside Back Cover Premier Properties–Lyndi Wilson. . . . . . . . . Inside Back Cover Premier Properties Mesquite LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 Premier Properties–Maggie Ireland. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 Preston’s Shredding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117 Proof It Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Rager & Sons Refrigeration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Ready Golf & Gear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Red Rock Golf Center–Rob Krieger. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Reliance Connects. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Remax–Cindy Risinger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-19 Roadrunner Home Repair & Renovations. . . . . . . . . . . . . 114 Rockets over the Red Mesa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Rooster Cottage Consignment Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Sears Hometown Store. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 Silver Rider. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Star Nursery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103 State Farm–LaDonna Koeller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 State Farm–Lisa Wilde . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Sun City Realty–Renald Leduc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 SunRiver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 The Front Porch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 The Lindi Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Travel Connection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Transparent Solutions Window Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115 Tuacahn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Virgin Valley Heritage Museum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Wedgies Sports Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99 Wolf Creek Terrace. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Single Family and Townhomes 2, 3 and 4 Bedroom Townhomes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Single Family Built to your specifications on quarter acre lots!

Kelly Murphy (541) 610-7953 www.buysellmesquite.com

Lyndi Wilson (702) 581-9994

buymesquiterealestate@gmail.com