November is Healthy Skin Month — a great time to pause and appreciate the skin you live in. Here in northern Utah, where sunshine, altitude, and crisp mountain air are part of daily life, our skin works hard to keep us healthy and comfortable. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or hitting the slopes, protecting your skin helps you enjoy the outdoors with confidence and ease.
A few simple habits can make all the difference. Daily sunscreen, plenty of water, and regular skin checkups are small investments that pay off for years to come. Think of it like caring for your favorite trail gear—the better you maintain it, the longer it lasts. This month, give your skin a little extra care so it can keep you thriving through every season of adventure.
Dr. Julie Maughan
Dr. Emily M. Powell
Grateful for Community, Shared Stories, and Gentle Paws
Welcome to November and the season of being thankful! We are so thankful for all of our readers, our partners, our team, and everyone who's made our launch over the last few months possible.
As a kiddo, I loved Thanksgiving for the food first (of course), but as I got older, I appreciated the space it created for appreciating what we have. The meal alone is so symbolic of the labor, the time, the patience, and the money it took to pro vide such a feast. But ultimately, Thanksgiving stands for one question: what are you thankful for?
In this issue, we spotlighted a few inspirational folks who told us about their lives and what they were most thankful for, through the essence of teamwork: Dr. Cox of Specialists in Orthodontics, who strives to create the perfect smile for his patients; world-traveling life coach speaker and author, Dave Blanchard, who celebrates his life and success alongside the support of his wife, Ramona; and Dr. Christensen of Christensen Pediatric Dental, carrying forward a 50-year family tradition of children’s smiles.
Meanwhile, as a Cat Mama, I decided to feature a cat this month from Weber County Animal Services. This sweet calico queen started purring immediately and was very ready for cuddles! An absolute sweetheart if you're looking for your next furry friend.
Courtney Johnson | courtney.johnson@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Evana Mauriz | evana.mauriz@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Molly Harper | molly@molly-jensen.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lori Matlack, Dave Blanchard
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Dave Labrum
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Proverbs 3:5-6
Cozy Fall Porch Makeover
Dave and Ramona Blanchard,
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Celebrating with Dr. Maughan at the open house of Wasatch Dermatology and Skin Sculpt. 2: Dr. Maughan is conducting some patient education regarding skin cancer. 3: Dr. Cox of Specialists in Orthodontics supports Dr. Maughan at her open house. 4: Physician Assistant, Elizabeth Hughes, talking with co-worker, Nicole, about skin care. 5: Dr. Maughan's right-hand, Stacy, is welcoming guests. 6: Summer getting ready to talk about skin care. 7: Dr. Hammond of Ogden Clinic gets a tutorial from Dr. Powell of Wasatch Dermatology.
Want to be seen in the magazine?
Reverse Metabolic Dysfunction
Never too soon and never too late!
At 72 years young, Ramona and I are living prescription free and are loving life. It’s time for you to reverse the five indicators of metabolic dysfunction:
Elevated blood sugar
High blood pressure
Unhealthy cholesterol
High triglycerides
High visceral (belly) fat
Let’s walk by your side. What we do is not in addition to what you are currently spending on your food bill—it’s less!
Warm Fall
TRANSFORM YOUR ENTRY WITH SEASONAL LAYERS OF PUMPKINS, MUMS, AND ACCENTS FOR A WARM WELCOME.
ARTICLE BY LORI MATLACK
STEP 1: BUILD THE BASE
Start with the foundation. Layer a large outdoor rug under a smaller welcome mat to ground the space. Hang a fall wreath on the door to bring eye-level interest and seasonal color. The simple elements establish your porch’s framework, add texture, and create the first impression. Think of them as your canvas for everything else.
STEP 2: CREATE THE FOCAL POINT
Place a tall planter near the door and fill it with bold, colorful mums. For added height, anchor the arrangement with a spiky plant in the center. This vertical element becomes the porch’s visual anchor. Add a second mum on the opposite side of the door to add balance..
STEP 3: LAYER SEASONAL TOUCHES
Complete the look with pumpkins. Place a straw bale at the base of the pot to soften the edges of the planter. Add pumpkins, mixing sizes and colors for variety. Step back and check balance: tallest items at the back, medium in the middle, smallest in front. This creates depth and charm.
Katrina turned a magazine into community.
City Lifestyle isn’t just a publication — it’s a pulse. A rhythm of voices, neighbors, and stories woven together by someone who believes in the power of connection. As we expand, we’re looking for people ready to turn care into community. Are you ready to be that spark?
Ogden
City Lifestyle
Published by Katrina Loved by Ogden
A Venue as Beautiful as Your Love Story
thanksgiving cornucopia
How To Decorate Tables With Noteworthy November Flair
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
• An old dough bowl or wood trencher makes a great low centerpiece when filled with seasonal pumpkins, gourds, pinecones and flowering branches.
• Fill a stoneware sugar bowl with seeded eucalyptus, chrysanthemums and pears.
• Use one or a nest of baskets, floral foam and some blooms to craft a themed stunner.
• Incorporate family heirlooms by using an inherited (or thrifted) antique teapot, surrounded by other vintage finds.
• Stack two cake plates on top of each other with bite-size edibles; add other, shorter floral arrangements in pitchers or vases, if desired.
• Add soft candlelight with rustic textures of wood and lots of fall color via an assortment of fresh and faux gourds, silk sunflowers and dried seed pods.
use vintage finds
Whether
traditional or modern, formal or fussfree, Thanksgiving centerpieces set a memorable ambiance for November gatherings.
Make an edible bread cornucopia, ‘horn of plenty,’ for the Thanksgiving table using refrigerated bread or pizza dough, a plastic bottle mold and aluminum foil. Wrap the bottle with foil, make a tail at one end and then layer adjoining strips of dough on the foil. Brush cornucopia with melted butter, remove the plastic bottle and bake at 350 F for 25 to 30 minutes on the lower rack, or until it turns a golden, shiny brown. Fill with sweet or savory nibbles, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, gourds, nuts, rosemary breadstick twists or even cookies, for an impressive centerpiece that’ll keep guests happily munching while they wait for the main meal to begin.
Dentistry: Family, Trust & Appreciation
Dr. Aaron Christensen shares insights on pediatric dental care
ARTICLE BY EVANA MAURIZ
DR. AARON CHRISTENSEN
ENGINEERED FOR ADVENTURE
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Each JL370 is built in Michigan with premium components, exclusive AEV upgrades, and a 3-year/36,000-mile nationwide warranty. No compromises. No shortcuts. Just the ultimate expression of your adventurous spirit.
ARTICLE BY COURTNEY JOHNSON
BE THE SMILE IN SOMEONE'S LIFE
SMILES FOR MILES
Behind every vision, there is someone who was inspired, curious, and challenged. We are all presented with a path as we navigate through our lives, and allowing those paths to mold us is part of the journey. The journey, Dr. Brett Cox, is the most crucial part. Perhaps
"A
Dr. Cox's experience in Japan shaped how he continues to lead — with the same spirit of unity and support that defined those teams.
To this day, Dr. Cox and his wife, Megan, still host some of the students they knew while in Japan, and some of
SMILE IS SUCH A BIG PART OF
WHO WE ARE."
this is why Dr. Cox has worn so many hats, including those of a Weber State basketball player, a KNAZ TV news broadcaster, an Army soldier in Japan, a host for exchange students, a coach, and now, running his own orthodontic practice right here in Ogden.
For Dr. Cox, having a strong community, family, and team means everything. While serving in Japan, Dr. Cox became Coach Brett, pioneering a basketball club for high school students from the surrounding military bases who wanted to play basketball. This pursuit of his passion inspired a unity between Japanese and American students who just wanted to play some ball. With a combined effort toward what seemed impossible, all three of the teams were able to raise enough money to travel to the US for the Amateur Athletic Union.
them have even gone on to start their own careers in basketball, still reaching out to Coach Brett from time to time for advice. Needless to say, Dr. Cox will always be Coach Brett, because he drives team spirit and the sense to support and love one another.
Dr. Cox took over Specialists in Orthodontics a little over three years ago and has recently welcomed his new — and old — friend, Dr. Andrea Alicea, into the practice. Dr. Alicea and Dr. Cox met during their residency, where Dr. Cox was her mentor. Dr. Cox was holding down the fort as the sole orthodontist for the last year and a half, which he admitted could be overwhelming at times. He says that without his team, it would not have been possible.
The ambiance of Specialists in Orthodontics is not your typical orthodontic office—it has a personal feel, a
CONTINUED >
sense that you might experience when visiting a friend's house. You can see all of your friends' favorite hobbies based on how they decorate. In the case of Specialists in Orthodontics, Dr. Cox has a collection of basketball sneakers displayed around the office, along with his jerseys, including one signed by professional basketball player Damien Lillard. Getting braces is not something many of us look forward to, but Dr. Cox and his team try to make it a positive experience. They genuinely care about their patients' experience and providing them with the smile they can be proud of. After a friendly greeting from the receptionist, a bright and cheery waiting room decorated with photos of young athletes and happy families, welcomes patients. Two essential and hope-inspiring displays are located nearby: a candy wall where patients can choose a sweet treat at the end of the appointment, and a wall of beautiful smiles from previous patients. It's a welcoming environment with a friendly staff, all of whom share an incredibly authentic goal of simply making patients feel comfortable.
Dr. Cox lives by the philosophy of constant betterment and continued learning. He cares about his patients so much that his last thought of the day is about
Dr. Cox back left
"EVERY PATIENT SHOULD LOVE THEIR BEAUTIFUL, HAPPY SMILE."
how he can serve them better and how he can further improve their smiles. He strives for perfection because he says his patients deserve it.
On a personal and unforgettable level, Dr. Cox shared how he solidified his passion for orthodontics, which was inspired by a beautifully braced, orange and black band smile: his youngest sister, Kylie Cox. Kylie left this world much too soon, but Dr. Cox thinks of her every day, feeling grateful for the lessons she has taught him. She showed him how to love others and be kind, accepting everyone — no matter who they were —with a big smile and a warm hug. Dr. Cox strives to embody her essence of love in everyday ways, honoring her belief that we can find peace within each other if we take the time to do so.
Dr.Cox states, "A smile is such a big part of who we are. Helping people gain confidence to share that smile with others is why I became an orthodontist."
·
MEET THE Blanchards
Leading 17,000 coaches worldwide after their own metabolic transformation
ARTICLE BY KATRINA HAMMOND
THE RESILIENCE OF DAVE AND RAMONA BLANCHARD
The crisp, 45-degree mid-September air surrounded Dave and Ramona Blanchard as they enjoyed their morning bike ride to Snowbasin, a moment of reflection and gratitude for their health. At 72, Dave said to Ramona, "We just rode fifteen miles. The leaves are turning, wild turkeys are running across the trail, and there are two moose. We are not winded or exhausted. This is glorious. I am so grateful for good health."
Their early years were focused on family and business. Ramona gave birth to seven children during their first eleven years of marriage. While she taught an aerobic class to stay fit, some unwanted pounds lingered. Meanwhile, Dave was a serial entrepreneur, successfully building a financial services firm, a medical practice management company, and a real estate development company. As with many others, raising a large family and building businesses took precedence over personal health and fitness.
THE COMEBACK
The economic landscape shifted dramatically. The Tax Reform Act of 1986 significantly reduced the tax benefits of owning apartment buildings. However, by 1989, the California real estate market had collapsed. Dave recalled the devastating loss: "Millions of dollars flowed through our fingers like water. I tried to save it, but in the end, everything was gone, and we were $1,000,000 in debt."
The Blanchards chose to repay the debt rather than file for bankruptcy. Dave leveraged his avocation of writing, producing, and directing cause-oriented film projects, deciding to become a fulltime writer/director to pay back the debt. Two of his favorite early projects were exploring explosive topics surrounding adolescence, such as Reach Out and Come in From the Storm . These films featured actors like Tiffany Brissette, Emmanuel Lewis, Gordon Jump, and Bumper Robinson. The military purchased them for every Family Services Unit and DOD school system worldwide. The films were also distributed in 30,000 schools across the US, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia, including 600 schools in Utah.
The Blanchards relocated to Utah, a right-to-work state, where Dave had edited his previous film projects. When they needed to buy a CONTINUED >
house and everything seemed out of reach, Ramona offered a profound sacrifice. She took off her wedding ring, a design Dave had commissioned for their tenth anniversary, and told him, "I don't need anything this elaborate anymore. Sell it and use the money to buy our house." Dave reflected, calling her "the priceless rock."
Over the ten years it took to pay off the debt, Dave worked tirelessly, writing and directing over 200 film projects, including national TV commercials and television shows. He also earned several Telly Awards and the Crystal Communicator Awards. During this period, seven children attended college, and four of the daughters were married. He also penned five feature film scripts, one of which was based on Og Mandino's book, The Law of Success .
A NEW LIFE AND LASTING LEGACY
In January 2000, while Dave was directing commercials in New York City, Bette, Og Mandino's widow, called him. She informed him that Michael Landan would not be renewing the rights to Mandino's best seller, The Greatest Salesman in the World , due to a cancer diagnosis, and she wanted to offer the rights to Dave first. Dave shared that the book had "saved my life during some very tough times, while paying back the debt."
Dave then left the film business, founded and served as CEO of The Og Mandino Leadership Institute for twenty-five years. As a result, he has given 500 speeches worldwide, from Pittsburgh to Prague. He is also the author of three bestselling books: Today
DAVE BLANCHARD
Dave Blanchard is the founder and former CEO of The Og Mandino Leadership Institute. After losing millions in a real estate crash, he repaid $1,000,000 in debt by becoming a full-time writer/director of over 200 film projects. Blanchard has authored three best-selling books. He now focuses on metabolic health coaching with his wife, Ramona.
"More than fifty years later, seven kids, and twenty-seven grandchildren, Ramona still lights up my soul."
-Dave Blanchard-
I Begin a New Life, The Observer's Chair, and Equinimity: Conquering Mt. Entrepreneur. Dave also invested millions to perfect a Nobel Prizenominated formal mathematical science developed at the University of Tennessee, which measures a person's habits of thinking with laser accuracy.
HEALTH, FITNESS, AND THE FUTURE
Most recently, after Ramona and Dave collectively lost 130 lbs and reversed their metabolic dysfunction, they purchased the health coaching network that had served them.
What's next for the Blanchards? In addition to managing over 17,000 coaches worldwide, their single favorite activity is dedicating time to helping individuals achieve metabolic health. At 72, they both lift weights, ride mountain bikes, and wake surf with their children and grandchildren.
Dave is also an avid collector of Corvettes and classic cars, with his 1962 Fuelie, one of only five known to exist with a power roof, winning the Mayor's Trophy at the Fourth of July Auto Show in Huntsville.
Reflecting on his life, Dave emphasizes the critical role Ramona played. "Ramona and I were born in the same hospital, same year, and same month in Logan, Utah," he smiled, continuing, "I then spent the next 22 years looking for her until our paths eventually crossed in Poway, California. More than fifty years later, seven kids, and twenty-seven grandchildren, she still lights up my soul."
H O P E
Begins with YOU A SEASON TO
The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?
The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.
Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.
“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”
Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:
SCAN TO NOMINATE
“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”
“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”
Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:
“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”
Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.
This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.
“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”
Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.
This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.
To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.
Cooking With Fresh Herbs
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD| PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Garlic Herb Butter
This butter is versatile and goes with just about anything. You can use this on top of bread, popcorn, veggies, as a sandwich spread and more.
Ingredients
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 4 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon herb of your choice (dill, basil or oregano are my go-to herbs.)
• 1 clove garlic, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• cracked pepper to taste
Process
Add all ingredients in a food processor (or mix by hand in a bowl). Transfer butter mixture on parchment paper or plastic wrap. Cover butter tightly and roll into a log. Place in refrigerator until firm. Enjoy!
NOVEMBER 15TH
$5 holiday ornaments
Local Artisan Collective | 12:00 PM
Local artists have been working all year long to showcase their talents in this festive art event. While this is a free event, most ornaments will be priced at $5.
NOVEMBER 22ND
Santa Run
Downtown Ogden | 4:30 PM
Santa is coming to town! Or should we say Santas? Mark your calendar if you’d like to participate in this 5k run dressed as Santa! Milk and cookies will be provided, don’t worry!
NOVEMBER 22ND
Holiday Electric Light Parade
22nd Street to 28th | 5:30 PM
Following the Santa Run, there will be a holiday parade to celebrate Santa turning on the lights of Christmas Village. The Village will be open through the holidays, so if you’re not able to make the parade, you will have plenty of time to do so!
7P-8:30P | NOVEMBER 21ST 1P-2:30P | NOVEMBER 22ND
Don’t let congestion, ear pain, sinus infections or sore throats ruin your holiday cheer. Ogden Clinic ENT specialists are here to restore peace, comfort, and good sleep this season. Ogden Clinic’s ENT specialists are here to keep you healthy so you can enjoy the moments that matter most.
