Health and Wellness Meet Benja Peterson, Wellness Guru
JA N UA RY 2 02 4
LIFESTYLE LETTER
Welcome to January! Dear Readers, January marks our 30th issue! It has been wonderful getting out into the community each month and seeing the "synergy" with which our various groups operate. I love the power and connections we make when we work together. In fact, we are more successful when we work together than when we work separately. I am thinking of schools working together, of music organizations working together, of businesses working together, of individuals working together and churches working together, of cities in our county working together. It thrills me to see the connectedness amongst the various organizations. Stephen R. Covery, author of "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," emphasizes the power of collaboration with the word "synergize." To quote: "Synergize is the habit of creative cooperation, teamwork, open-mindedness and the adventure of finding new solutions to old problems." It is my hope that we'll take this to heart as we begin this new year—that when we find ourselves in conflict or disagreement with others that we'll think of "synergize" and be inspired by how much better we will feel when we work together in finding solutions and in building harmony. I love this community and those who go about "building" with positivity. May I offer a special thanks to you, the readers; to Paula Christie, our publisher; to all the staff and writers of St. George City Lifestyle and to our loyal advertisers. Please enjoy reading, and may your new year be filled with good health, wellness and love. Here's to a happy and healthy 2024 for us all! Most respectfully,
January 2024 PUBLISHER
Paula Christie | paula.christie@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R
JJ Abernathy | jj.abernathy@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R I AL C O O R D I N ATO R
Holly Infante | holly.infante@citylifestyle.com AC C O U N T M AN AG E R
Terry Dennis | terry.dennis@citylifestyle.com STAF F P H OTO G R AP H E R
Asher Swan | asherswanphoto@gmail.com S O C I AL M E D I A C O O R D I N ATO R
Holly Infante | holly.infante@citylifestyle.com P H OTO E D I TO R
Lori Hansen CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Fred Bernhardt, Kimberly Blaker, Angela Broockerd, Janice Brooks, Marianne Hamilton, Christa Hinton, Kami Egan Savage C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S
JJ Abernathy, Melissa Hill Photography, Janie Jones, Ali Rogers, Adam Rue, Colleen Rue, Asher Swan
Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
J J A B E R N AT H Y, E D I T O R @STGEORGECITYLIFESTYLE
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 St George City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the St George area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle
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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R
Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in St George City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
From 2023 to 2024 and on...
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inside the issue JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S
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Featured
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Let's Get Fiscal
Tips for meeting financial fitness goals for 2024 and beyond
Recommended Readings
Captivating reads to start the New Year off just right
Benja Peterson
Walking on the spiritual waters of life
22 On the Cover
Departments
Photographer Asher Swan captures the inimitable Benja Peterson in her St. George home as she shares her life's spiritual journey from Thailand to Utah to the world, with writer, Janice Brooks.
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Lifestyle Letter
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City Scene
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Business Monthly
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Financial Buzz FINANCE + LEGAL SERVICES
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Education Corner EDUCATION
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How To LIFE + CULTURE
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Local Limelight HEALTH + WELLNESS
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Must See FITNESS
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Inspired By EDUCATION
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Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E
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Events
Power Couple
Adam and Colleen Rue provide the "engine" for worldwide races
Photography: Asher J. Swan
JANUARY 2024
city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
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CARMEN SNOW
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JJ ABERNATHY JJ ABERNATHY
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CARMEN SNOW
KAREN LUND LARSEN
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BRAD BUHANAN
ALYCE STEVENS GARDNER
1: Mayor Staheli and Ed Tracey at Washington Area Chamber of Commerce Rock and Roll Gala 2: Carmen Snow presents Kathy and George Staheli with Heart of Dixie Award 3: The Jensens at the BYU Management Society scholarship fundraising event at the Marriott Courtyard 4: Tanner and Whitney Wilkinson with Karen and Mark Gubler at the BYU Management Society dinner 5: "Follow the Flag" and United We Pledge sponsor largest free-flying flag, Snow Canyon State Park 6: Anthony White with Hallows and Company and food truck, DonutNV, with Brad Buhanan of TechRidge 7: Southwest Symphony Board Chair, Alyce Stevens Gardner, with early season soloist Ka-wai Yu.
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C I T Y SC E N E
S o u t h e r n U ta h ’s P r e m i e r B u s i n e s s a n d E s tat e P l a n n i n g L aw F i r m Business Law and Disputes
Real Estate and Construction Law
Municipal Law and Land Use Planning
Commercial Transactions
Litigation, Mediation, and Appeals
Estate and Tax Planning
435.628.3688 | www.SnowJensen.com | St. George
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QUALITY EDUCATION at an Affordable Price
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JANUARY 2024
business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S
EV9 Named North American Utility Vehicle of the Year™ Finalist The all-electric Kia EV9 was named a finalist in the competition for 2024 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year™ by the North American Car of the Year jury. It was evaluated by 50 third-party jurors and named one of three finalists from among nine semi-finalists. The EV9 is the brand's flagship and will arrive in fourth quarter of 2023. Assembly is scheduled to move to the state-of-the-art Kia facility in West Point, Georgia.
Photography Courtesy of Kiamedia.com
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The Golf Institute of America Offers PGA Schools The Golf Institute is offering affordable golf lessons (18 and up) with an emphasis on developing flexibility, agility, balance and strength. The institute is happy to announce its "approved vendor" status with Select Health and Aetna Health Care Advantage programs. The goal is to help everyone enjoy a healthy lifestyle while loving golf. The PGA Golf Schools are being offered at The Ledges, SunRiver, Copper Rock and Big Shots, according to Arnold Billingsley. Visit golfinstituteofamerica.com.
Photography by Brian Oar
Old Pioneer Courthouse to Undergo Renovation To preserve the Pioneer Courthouse and ensure future generations can visit safely and learn about our area’s pioneer heritage, this building will undergo much-needed repairs beginning this winter. The last tours of the historic building took place this past November. At a later date and function to be determined, the Pioneer Courthouse will reopen and be accessible to the public. The Pioneer Courthouse is located at 97 E. St. George Boulevard in St. George.
Photography by City of St. George
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L e t 's G e t F i s c a l TIPS FOR MEETING FINANCIAL FITNESS GOALS FOR 2024 AND BEYOND
ARTICLE BY KAMI EGAN SAVAGE PHOTOGRAPHY BY MELISSA HILL PHOTOGRAPHY
Dustin Schofield
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F IN A N CIA L BU Z Z | FI NANCE + LE GAL SE RVICE S
Rick and Dustin Schofield
As we head into the new year, our goals often center on both physical and financial fitness. Here, Senior Wealth Advisor, Dustin Schofield, with Schofield Wealth Management, offers his best advice for pumping up our portfolios and starting off the new year with healthy wealth-building habits.
WHEN ONE’S FINANCES ARE IN A HEALTHY STATE, WHAT DO THEY LOOK LIKE? Healthy finances involve maintaining a balance between income and expenses, having an emergency fund, managing debt responsibly, saving for goals and having a plan for long-term financial security.
HOW DO YOU HELP YOUR CLIENTS MAINTAIN HEALTHY PORTFOLIOS?
We discuss and review our clients’ financial goals, risk tolerances and time horizons to create financial plans and personalized investment strategies to help them attain their goals and financial vision. Regular reviews and adjustments ensure alignment with clients’ objectives and market conditions. Communication and education are key to empowering clients to make informed decisions.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE BEST WEALTH MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES AND GOALS CLIENTS CAN SET FOR THE NEW YEAR?
Some ideas clients can use in setting strategies and goals for the new year are financial planning, such as budgeting; setting up an emergency fund and managing debt; setting investment goals, including long-term objectives and investing into a diversified investment portfolio; retirement planning, including making contributions to 401ks, IR As, etc.; and estate planning, such as working with an estate attorney to update wills or trusts and making sure that beneficiary designations are as desired.
WHAT ARE POTENTIAL OPPORTUNITIES AND PITFALLS TO WATCH OUT FOR IN 2024?
It is important for clients to be adaptable. Financial plans shift all the time. Clients should work with a financial professional who can model impacts to their portfolios that may occur because of inflation and economic upheaval. We believe 2024 will be an interesting year in both the stock and bond markets because we are coming off very high inflation and rising interest rates. It’s also a presidential election year. Most likely, interest rates have reached their peak and will start coming down over the next one to three years, the speed of which will depend upon whether we go into a recession in 2024. Investors should always be prepared for the unforeseen, so always maintaining a 5 to 10% cash position in one’s portfolio is a good idea. We believe that with interest rates most likely holding steady or coming down in 2024, bonds look very attractive as they have been beaten up so much over the last year-and-a-half or so.
WHAT IS IMPORTANT TO KEEP IN MIND WHEN MAKING INVESTMENTS?
Investing for the future is a long-term commitment and the biggest friend to an investor is compounding. As the old Chinese proverb goes, “The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.” Don’t let the market, political and economic ups and downs scare you away from making that investment. There are always opportunities in the stock and bond markets for you to do well, just like there are in real estate and other investments. There’s another saying: “People don’t plan to fail, they just fail to plan.” Most people may need or want to use a financial advisor to help them with their planning. Our advice is to choose wisely. Contact Schofield Wealth Management at schofieldwm.com or telephone 435.674.3601. For decades, Dustin and his father, Rick Schofield, have provided investment planning and wealth management advice to high-net-worth individuals, families and businesses.
“Investors should always be prepared for the unforeseen, so always maintaining a 5 to 10% position in one’s portfolio is a good idea.” JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / STG E O R G E
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R ECOMMENDED
Christa Hinton; Asher Swan Photo
R EADINGS Captivating reads to start the New Year off just right ARTICLE BY CHRISTA HINTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTA HINTON AND ASHER SWAN
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EDU CAT ION COR N E R | ED U CAT ION
A B O U T
C H R I S T A
H I N T O N
Christa Hinton, operations and communications manager for Snow Jensen & Reece, PC, has expanded her footprint into civic engagement. A love for politics was fostered while helping her father, Lowry Snow, run his campaigns for the Utah House. She now serves on the Santa Clara City Council. Needless to say, Christa is an enthusiastic reader. CONTINUED >
JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / STG E O R G E
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Photo by Christa Hinton
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Photo by Christa Hinton
1 1 . T H E COV ENA N T O F WA T E R ( 2 0 2 3 ) B Y A BR A HA M VERGHESE “The Covenant of Water” is Abraham Verghese’s epic story of a three-generation family living in southwestern India. Verghese expertly weaves poignant water symbolism throughout this beautiful and haunting story of love, catastrophe, inequity and atonement. I highly recommend the author-read audio version of this incredible masterpiece.
Photo by Christa Hinton
2 . ATOM IC H A BI TS ( 2018) BY JA M ES CLE A R James Clear’s bestselling book, “Atomic Habits,” shares a roadmap for planning and implementing small habits with the potential to yield dramatic improvements in your quality of life. Sharing his own experiences after a life-changing accident and drawing on scientific research in the fields of biology, neuroscience, psychology and more, Clear’s engaging style provides actionable guidance that will inspire you to create habits for improving any area of your life.
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EDU CAT ION COR N E R | ED U CAT ION
3. THE M A NY LI VES OF M A M A LOV E ( 202 3) BY L A R A LOV E H A R DI N Lara Love Hardin’s inspirational memoir, “The Many Lives of Mama Love,” chronicles the heartbreaking consequences of the former soccer mom’s drug addiction and resultant criminal behavior. Hardin candidly shares her compelling struggle to reclaim her life, family and career, overcoming roadblocks created by her own actions and a justice system not designed for redemption.
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New Year Resolutions Why they fail and how you can succeed ARTICLE BY KIMBERLY BLAKER
The New Year is a great time to take inventory, set goals and take charge of your life. But if you’re like most, making resolutions is much easier than keeping them. Rather than focus on the idea of a new beginning, which can lead to disappointment at the first slip, keep in mind that self-improvement is an ongoing endeavor. Setbacks are not failures—they bring wisdom and insight for future success. Maybe you want to resolve to spend more time with your family, quit smoking or lose weight. You’re more likely to succeed if you feel a strong personal commitment rather than “I should.” Put each resolution in writing, and write down the steps to achieve them. Let’s say your resolution requires a routine or schedule such as an exercise routine, a new diet or steps toward completing your education. Create a goal chart, a detailed plan and a checklist to track your progress. Finally, reward yourself, not just once you’ve achieved your goal, but periodically for your success so far. Small, periodic rewards can be motivation enough to keep you strong when you’re ready to throw in the towel.
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JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / STG E O R G E
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Meeting Benja Peterson WALKING ON THE SPIRITUAL WATERS OF HER LIFE'S JOURNEY
Benja Peterson is one of the most joyous people I have met. She radiates enthusiasm and encourages people to thrive with cheerfulness. The phrase “walk on water” is an idiom that means to do something impossible, to have the courage to overcome obstacles and ultimately achieve something extraordinary. Benja, as a restaurant owner, former hairdresser, Mary Kay Cosmetics representative, NuSkin consultant and yoga studio owner, has done just that—and she continues to walk graciously on the spiritual waters of her life.
Benja Peterson WILL YOU SHARE A POIGNANT STORY FROM YOUR CHILDHOOD? My mother once told me, when I was about five years old, we lived in a city called Ayutthaya, Thailand. I had begged my mother to allow me to go swimming. She said no, and I went anyway. Thailand was always flooding, and our home was very close to the river. She told me I almost drowned, and my father saved me. I was crying and standing upright with my head out of the water when my father ran from his office and jumped into the water. Some said it was a miracle from God that I was saved, since the water covered his head. HAS WATER ALWAYS BEEN IMPORTANT TO YOU? Yes! Since I began Kundalini yoga in 2003. I have taken a cold shower in the early morning hours. The cold water gives me physical and spiritual energy. HOW OLD WERE YOU WHEN YOU HAD YOUR FIRST CONSCIOUS SPIRITUAL EXPERIENCE? I grew up as a Buddhist, and my parents were both meditation teachers. My father traveled for work as he had business in different cities and sent money back to us, coming home
ARTICLE BY JANICE BROOKS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHER SWAN
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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HEALT H + WE LLN E SS
once a month. My mother raised seven children by herself. When I was 14, we moved to the mountain. Sometimes my mother would say, “Just go sit.” Once I went to a cave and I sat counting my breaths. When I walked home and into the house, I felt like I was floating—like my feet didn’t touch the floor. I didn’t realize that it was a spiritual experience, but I know now, and I can often feel it in my feet. HOW DID YOUR SPIRITUALITY EXPAND OVER TIME? In 2001, before I moved to Utah, I was introduced to Hatha yoga. In 2003, I began practicing Kundalini yoga. Yoga gave me the courage to start my successful restaurant business. WHAT WAS THE STRONG IMPULSE TO EMBRACE KUNDALINI YOGA? When I was teaching Hatha yoga at the community center in St. George and the Summit Athletic Club, I didn’t know about Kundalini yoga. Later, I was given a Kundalini videotape, and it changed my life. After certification, I started teaching Kundalini yoga classes through Continuing Education at Dixie State University, now Utah Tech University. I began with seven students and ended with about 200. I KNOW YOU’VE PRACTICED MANY SPIRITUAL TRADITIONS. WHEN DID YOU STOP TEACHING YOGA? In 2013, I started traveling and stopped teaching yoga. But, in 2017, my husband Eric introduced me to the spiritual practice of Zen Buddhism. Silence let me know “who” I am. In silence, I could feel my body awakening and being aware. Silence has given me moments of being one with nature and developing a meditative mind.
“Since I began Kundalini yoga in 2003, I have taken a cold shower in the early morning hours. The cold water gives me physical and spiritual energy.” CONTINUED >
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“My children have been part of my suffering, because things are different than what I experienced growing up. But my children have also been my greatest inspiration on my spiritual path. My suffering has directed me to the light.”
HAVE YOU HAD ANY CHALLENGES OR SUFFERING ON YOUR SPIRITUAL JOURNEY? My children have been part of my suffering, because things are different than what I experienced growing up. But my children have also been my greatest inspiration on my spiritual path. My suffering has directed me to the light. WHAT DO YOU FEEL HAS BEEN YOUR GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT? All my life, I have been seeking truth by asking myself three important questions: Who am I? Why am I here? What happens after this life? When I walked into The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Thailand, those three questions were on the board. That’s how I became a member, because they gave me those three questions to ponder. Those questions are still with me, but my understanding has grown deeper, expanded wider and higher in consciousness. One of my favorite quotations is by Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti when he told his disciples: “Develop river-like generosity, sun-like affection and earth-like hospitality.” I am now in the “be still and know that I am” mode. Benja as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
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LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HEALT H + WE LLN E SS
Benja in her St. George home
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C O R UP E L W O
ADAM AND COLLEEN RUE PROVIDE THE "ENGINE" FOR WORLDWIDE RACES ARTICLE BY MARIANNE HAMILTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADAM AND COLLEEN RUE; ASHER SWAN
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M UST SE E | F IT N E SS
Left: Yosemite Trail Run 2021; Colleen Rue Photo This page: Southern Utah Trail Run; Adam Rue Photo
“I’m out there for the views, the social connection, and the fun.” —Adam Rue Adam Rue remembers precisely when his career as a race announcer came to an end. The owner of Festival Sounds, which provides DJs and sound services for weddings, athletic competitions and other events, was welcoming athletes—including Colleen, his wife—across the finish line at the 2015 Lake Powell Half Marathon. Then Adam was tapped to present awards, and spontaneously handed the mic off to his spouse. Colleen accepted the challenge—and crushed it. “And that was the day that I happily lost my job as a race announcer,” Adam recalls, laughing. Admittedly, Colleen wasn’t exactly a neophyte: Before then, she’d logged almost a year on morning radio in St. George. But as a paralegal turned fitness instructor/ coach, she lacked any formal training as “talent.” What Colleen and her mate did not lack was an impressive athletic resume.
After graduation from Cedar High School in 1996, she began teaching fitness classes. Competitive athletics soon followed: She completed her first triathlon at the 1999 Utah Summer Games and her first marathon two years later. A three-time Boston Marathoner, she’s lost count of the number of marathon, half marathon and triathlon finisher’s medals she’s earned. Inevitably, IRONMAN® became a goal, one Colleen realized when she was the first “local female” to cross the finish line of the St. George edition in 2012. “I’d become pretty serious about training by that time; I got a coach and worked really hard, and just loved it,” Colleen says. A cross-country and track athlete in high school, Adam shared Colleen’s passion for running. But he admits that he lacks the Type-A gene embedded deeply in his wife’s DNA. CONTINUED > JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / STG E O R G E
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“It’s not how fast you were in a race. It’s ‘did you push yourself, and do something you didn’t think you could do?’” —Colleen Rue
Boston Marathon; Adam Rue Photo
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M UST SE E | FI TNES S
“I could care less how I do in a race; I’m out there for the views, the social connection, and the fun,” says Adam, a veteran of six St. George Marathons and several other long-distance adventures. “Sure, I want to turn in a decent time. But mostly I’m just out there to have fun.” Such an attitude became a crucial learning experience. Always motivated to be a “front of the packer,” she was devastated to turn in a much slower than expected performance at the 2012 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championships in Las Vegas, where 100-plus-degree temperatures scorched the athletes. Depression gripped her for nearly two weeks. Then Adam shared his perspective. “I told her that none of us cared about her time or had any idea she was so upset. We all just thought she was amazing as always.” His insights marked a significant turning point, Colleen says. “I started to realize that my competitiveness just wasn’t worth it anymore: The pressure to perform, to go faster, was taking the joy out of the sport for me.” Accordingly, she relinquished her next IRONMAN berth—and on a whim, joined a friend on a trail run. The combination of spectacular views, relative solitude, and most importantly, no performance expectations, was a balm to her psyche. “No one was asking how fast my transition was, or why this swim wasn’t as good as the last one,” she notes, grinning. “It really healed my soul.” Then again, Colleen’s relaxing runs eventually morphed into such contests as the 2014 Zion 50K and other trail ultramarathons. On her 40th birthday, she completed the TransRockies Run, a six-day, 120-mile event with 20,000 feet of elevation gain. In 2022, Adam joined Colleen in doing a 50K “training run” at Moab’s Arches Ultramarathon, and then on her second TransRockies outing. Today, Colleen and Adam are a reliable presence at many competitions put on by the City of St. George, with Adam providing
sound support, and Colleen cheering athletes over the finish line. She’s logged over a decade in a similar role with Vacation Races, which stages competitions in worldwide destinations. Most recently, she became “the voice of the mountain” for Atlanta-based 29029 Everesting. Their events give participants 36 hours to climb to the top of a mountain, take a gondola back to the bottom and climb again, completing the number of ascents needed to equal the vertical gain of Mount Everest, 29,029 feet. In 2023, Adam “everested” at 29029 in Stratton, Vermont. With non-stop rain transforming the mountain into sludge— yet his wife standing steadfast in the downpour with her microphone for most of the 36 hours—he achieved his goal. “I could go inside and take a break, get dried off and eat. Except for a few hours of sleep, Colleen was out there the entire time,” he marvels. Though the pair still train year-round, their focus has shifted dramatically. In October 2023, Colleen completed the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, D.C., pushing the wheelchair of a disabled adult. Both “pushed” in a half marathon in Atlanta, and plan to do the same as often as their schedules allow. Colleen believes she and her mate have now found their raison d’etre. “I feel like we’re redefining what success looks like for us,” she says. “It’s not how fast you were in a race. It’s ‘did you push yourself, and do something you didn’t think you could do? Then let’s celebrate that!’ Being able to share that with other people is what lights me up now.” Nodding at his bride of nearly 20 years, Adam concludes: “I feel like you’ve made me a better, more competitive runner… and I’ve helped you slow down, stop and smell the roses.” Contact Festival Sounds at festivalsounds.com. Find Colleen @voiceofthemountain on Instagram.
CONTINUED >
JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / STG E O R G E
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Top: Los Angeles Marathon; Adam Rue Photo Bottom: Saguaro Half Marathon Finish Line in Tucson; Adam Rue Photo
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M UST SE E | F IT N E SS
Marine Corps Marathon pushing for Kyle Pease Foundation; Marine Corps Marathon Photo
JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / STG E O R G E
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E X PA N DI NG technolog y at U TA H T E C H Utah Tech President Richard "Biff" Williams, Fred Bernhardt, Guest speaker Ryan Westwood, Utah Tech Trustee David Elkington
With the vision of Utah Tech Trustee Dave Elkington and his sister, Wendy Elkington Stabler, Utah Tech has established the Elkington Founder Speaker Series. The series is offered as part of the university’s polytechnic approach to education, a model that emphasizes hands-on learning and career preparation in line with Utah Tech’s commitment to providing open, inclusive and comprehensive educational opportunities. In 2004, Elkington founded a sales acceleration software company called Inside Sales, now known as XANT. Dave’s desire to share his experiences inspired him to accept the invitation to join the Utah Tech Board of Trustees in 2021. He has been a significant resource for the university, using his time, business connections and financial resources to enhance learning experiences. Past presenters have been Ryan Westwood, CEO of Simplus, and Kraig Kleeman, CEO of The New Workforce & Rock the C-Suite. The continuing series promises to bring more successful business owners to share the nuts and bolts of starting a business, the sacrifices to be made and the tenacity required to continue forward with an idea. The series is being held at the Eccles Fine Arts Center in the Main Stage Theater. For future events, visit news.utahtech.edu.
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I NSP IR E D BY | EDUCATI ON
Wendy Elkington Stabler
Associate Provost, Chris Guymon states, “All this is designed to help us become better prepared for the world we now live in ...”
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SMOOTHIE BOWLS ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
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C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE
Upcoming Events Jan
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People, Places, & Ponies Photography exhibition curated by Desert Spirit Art Committee. Will be on display January 3-March 6, 2024.
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Jan
Eric Ramsey Eric is the Winner of the Memphis Cigar Box Guitar Award for the outstanding guitarist in the Solo/ Duo Category.
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Jan
Start your day with a nutritious and vitamin-packed breakfast. Smoothie bowls are a great way to add a variety of fruits and vegetables. Top with chia or flax seeds for an extra omega-3 boost, nuts or seeds for added protein, or sliced fruit for additional vitamins and fiber. Including a hint of turmeric or ginger can aid in digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties. Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables can aid in cellular repair and gut health, and smoothie bowls are a delicious way to incorporate more into your day. Try this simple recipe, or create your own combination to give your health a boost.
Soirée Musicale With Jason Bonham
Blend all ingredients until smooth. Top with desired toppings. TOPPING SUGGESTIONS: • granola • sliced almonds • berries • ground flax seeds
Repertory Dance Theatre Utah’s Repertory Dance Theatre leads the nation as America’s premier modern dance repertory company.
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Jan
INGREDIENTS: • 1 orange or 2 clementines • ½ cup carrots • 1 cup frozen mangos • 1 cup frozen peaches • ½ banana • ½ cup vanilla yogurt • ½ teaspoon turmeric, ground • small pinch of pepper
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Jan
Carrot Orange Bowl
Our Winter chamber music program is led by Jason Bonham, principle violist with Las Vegas Philharmonic.
Voyager Lecture Series Presents Paul Jauusi The common and not so common birds of Southwest Utah!
881 Coyote Gulch CT, Ivins, UT 84738
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JANUARY 2024
events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S
T H R O UG H JA N UA RY
Peoples, Places and Ponies Photgraphy Exhibit Center for the Arts at Kayenta, 881 Coyote Gulch Ct., Ivins | 10:00 AM Celebrate photography in all forms. Peoples, Places & Ponies is a wide array of artists and what speaks to them—whether it is color, black and white, abstract or representational. The exhibit is free and is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Visit kayentaarts.org. EVE RY SAT U RDAY
Tuacahn Saturday Market Tuacahn Amphitheatre, 1100 Tuacahn Dr., Ivins | 10:00 AM The market is every Saturday year-round, weather permitting. The market is a great place to find souvenirs created by local artists and crafters. Visit tuacahn.org. T H R O UG H JA N UA RY 1 2 TH
The Mighty Five: Zion National Park Sears Art Museum, 155 S. University Ave., St. George | 9:00 AM The Sears Art Museum at Utah Tech University is hosting the exhibition “The Mighty Five: Zion National Park,” featuring works by various artists. Free admission. Visit searsart.com. JA NUA RY 6T H T HRO UG H MARCH 31ST
Cedar Breaks: Snowshoe Hike Cedar Breaks National Monument, Hwy. 143 & Hwy. 148 | 10:00 AM Ranger-led snowshoe hikes at Cedar Breaks National Monument will be offered each Saturday and Sunday with an afternoon walk on Fridays. The walks are about 90 minutes in length. Contact sierra_johns@partner.npw.gov or call 435.986.7120. JA NUA RY 1 1 T H- 1 3T H
8th Annual Utah Farm and Food Conference: Cultivate Change Heritage Theater, Cedar City More than 300 farmers, ranchers, gardeners, biodynamic practitioners, permaculturists, educators, students, chefs, seed geeks, foodies and homesteaders from Utah and neighboring states convene for keynote addresses and workshops. Special events include the Farm to Fork Dinner, Seed Swap and Farmer Guild Mixer. Contact gather@utahfarmconference.org or 435.704.1222. JA NUA RY 1 2 T H- 1 3T H
Up and Away Hot Air Balloon and Music Festival and Car Show Sand Hollow State Park | 7:30 AM Twenty-five hot air ballons, over 100 vendors, food trucks, community entertainment and a car show. Free admission and free parking. Contact washingtonutchamber.com.
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NOW SERVICING
BMW, MINI, SUBARU & HONDA
JA N UA RY 1 3T H
Eric Ramsey at Kayenta Center for the Arts at Kayenta, 881 Coyote Gulch Ct., Ivins | 7:30 PM
(435) 275-2314 BavWerks.com
Eric Ramsey is a blues musician from Phoenix. He has garnered numerous accolades and popularity nationwide in concerts and festivals. Watch his groove-driven music, with soaring vocals, lyrical twists and infectious melodies. Visit kayentaarts.org.
Mon-Fri 9am-5pm
JA N UA RY 1 3T H
• 40+ YRS BMW EXPERIENCE
Virgin River Half Marathon
1363 E. Washington Dam Rd Washington, UT 84780
• DEALER-LEVEL DIAGNOSTICS
• 24MO/24K MI WARRANTY • ALL GERMAN ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT PARTS
Dixie Convention Center, 1835 Convention Center Dr., St. George | 9:00 AM This is southern Utah’s longest-running half marathon. This spectacular race is on paved city trails along the Virgin River and takes you through the beautiful landscape of St. George. JA N UA RY 1 3T H
Quintets from Mendelssohn and Brahms Center for the Arts at Kayenta, 881 Coyote Gulch Court, Ivins | 7:30 PM Soiree Musicale features top local musicians and guest professionals from across the Western region, tackling some of the most advanced and inspiring classical music. Featuring Jake Davis, Tido Janssen, DeAnn Leourneau and Urs Rutishauser. Visit kayentaarts.org.
ONE CALL IS ALL it takes to turn your Home Entertainment System “headache” into a system that looks great, sounds, great, and is Easy-To-Use!
Charlie
TVGUYS
Glenn
Home Entertainment Systems Design - Sales - Installation - Upgrades - Repairs
Call 435
688-7335
We Come To You! Mon-Sat 10-6 within 25 miles of St. George
Learn more at our website
www.reelht.com Scan me
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$30 OFF Installation one coupon per project if paid by cash or check JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / STG E O R G E
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events
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JANUARY 15TH
National Park Free Entry
f so ier Suppl
National Parks | 8:00 AM
FINE PRINTING, STATIONERY
CUSTOM GIFTS
National Park Fee-free Entry Day on the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. To encourage Americans to explore America’s natural beauty, rich history and culture, admission fees will be waived. Visit nps.gov for more information. JANUARY 16TH
INVITATIONS IMPRINTED NAPKINS ANNOUNCEMENTS
STATIONERY BUSINESS CARDS GREETING CARDS
Winter Concert Series Electric Theater, 68 E. Tabernacle St., St. George | 7:00 PM Concerts take place from October through January at St. George’s venerable Electric Theater. All shows are free to attend. Tel. 435.627.4000. JANUARY 19 TH-20 TH
CRYSTAL VASES DRINKWARE AWARDS QUALITY WRITING INSTRUMENTS DIRECT MAIL BROCHURES BUSINESS FORMS
Iron Springs Bridal Expo Iron Springs Adventure Resort, 3196 N. Iron Springs Rd., Cedar City | 11:00 AM Bridal Expo held from 11 a.m to 1 p.m. at Iron Springs Resort. Come for workshops, local wedding specialists, free samples, drawings, prizes and more. Call 435.708.0101 or visit online at ironspringsutah.com JANUARY 19 TH
Repertory Dance Theater Center for the Arts at Kayenta, 881 Coyote Gulch Court, Ivins | 7:30 PM Repertory Dance Theater was founded in Salt Lake City in 1966, and is the nation's oldest and most successful repertory dance company. Visit kayentaarts.org.
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St. George Heritage Day Social Hall, 212 N. Main St., St. George | 12:00 PM Jan. 20, 2024 is our annual Heritage Day celebration, commemorating the 162nd birthday of the City of St. George. Also Jan. 20: Free admission to Sand Hollow Resort Free admission to the St. George Recreation Center Free admission to the St. George Art Museum Free rides all day on SunTran buses Free rides at Thunder Junction and St. George Carousel JA N UA RY 2 7 T H
Broadway the Calla-Way! Dolores Dore Eccles Fine Arts Center Concert Hall, 255 S. University Ave., St. George | 7:30 PM Musical performance by Ann and Liz Callaway performing hits from Broadway. Find out why everyone loves the Callaway Sisters' "Sibling Rivalry." Ticket office is in the Holland Building, 1st floor. Boxoffice@utahtech.edu. JA N UA RY 3 0 T H
Voyager Lecture Series Center for the Arts at Kayenta, 881 Coyote Gulch Ct., Ivins | 7:30 PM Paul Jaussi was introduced to birding in college when he first saw a Western Tanager through a pair of binoculars and was hooked. Visit kayentaarts.org.
Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT CIT YLIFEST YLE .COM/ STG EORG E
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