St. George Health & Wellness Magazine September/October 2025 by St. George Health & Wellness Magazine

BRINGING TOGETHER WELLNESS AND LOCAL CHARM!

A Boutique Inside a Pharmacy? Absolutely! And It Works.

We know it may seem like an unexpected combo, a pharmacy and a boutique under one roof. But our customers love it!

At our Santa Clara location, Dutchman’s Market sits just across the street, and the convenience of both spots has been a hit.

Now, Fusion Pharmacy customers in St. George can discover Dutchman’s, a true local gem without having to drive to Santa Clara.

In the old days, pharmacies weren’t just a place to pick up prescriptions, wellness products, or chat with the pharmacist—they were a place to discover unexpected treasures from local businesses. So we thought: why not bring a little of that magic back?

With Dutchman’s Market & Home Baked Goods now inside Fusion Pharmacy in St. George, you’ll discover thoughtfully curated gifts, home goods, and surprises you didn’t know you needed—right alongside your trusted pharmacy care.

Community and

foster a culture of

and equality that stops sexual violence before it happens. Or to show support for survivors, shutdown harmful misconceptions, promote consent, and to practice healthy communication with children. Our voices matter now more than ever. How will you use yours to help end sexual assault, harassment, and rape? DOVE Center is our

There Are Many Roads to Mecca

I spent most of my childhood fixing and installing appliances. More specifically, I spent it reaching under stoves and laying in the muck behind dishwashers and refrigerators, digging through years of forgotten food, caked-on grease, and the occasional family of dead bugs who picked the wrong place to retire. Glamorous? Not even close. But for me, it was sacred ground.

Let’s face it: winter can leave us feeling a bit like a cluttered attic. We’ve been hibernating and indulging in comfort food. Maybe our exercise routines have been on a ski vacation (along with our motivation). But guess what? Spring has fully sprung, and just like this season motivates us to tackle the cobwebs and dust bunnies in our homes, it can also inspire us to declutter our health routines!

My dad owned an appliance repair business here in Southern Utah. Just him, an old work van, and a tool belt with more wisdom than wrenches. From the time I was old enough to hold a flashlight and fetch a socket set, I was his shadow. And while we were in the business of fixing machines, what I really remember are the conversations. The quiet ones. The funny ones. The ones that stuck.

My friend Dave is the perfect example. A self-proclaimed “professional Netflixer and snacker,” Dave spent most winter evenings glued to the couch, his only companion a giant bag of flavored chips. By spring, he felt sluggish. His clothes seemed tighter, and his energy levels were as low as a dead phone battery.

One of those came just before I graduated high school. We had just finished working on a washing machine that had coughed its last breath in a sweltering garage in Bloomington. I was sweaty, sunburned, and stuck in my own head about what was coming next. Everyone kept asking what my plans were after graduation. College? A mission for my church? Career? What did I want to do with my life? I had no idea.

But Dave, bless his heart, is nothing if not resourceful. Inspired by the blooming flowers outside and the urge to finally clean his overflowing junk drawer, he decided to clean up his health, too. Out went the nightly snacking sessions—replaced with a bowl of fruit and Greek yogurt—and in came a brisk evening walk around the park with his four-legged companion, Ruger. At first, it wasn’t easy: the couch had a powerful siren call. But Dave persevered one step at a time.

Standing in the heat, covered in lint and doubt, I finally said, “I just don’t want to screw it up. I feel like I need to make the perfect choice.”

My dad leaned against the side of the truck, wiped the sweat from his eyes, and looked at me for a second. Then he said something I’ll never forget.

“Son, there are many roads to Mecca.”

Within a few weeks, Dave felt like a whole new person. He had more energy, his clothes fit better, and his confidence surged. The walks became a source of joy, a chance to connect with nature and clear his head. Ruger is loving it, too. Spring cleaning his health did wonders for Dave, both physically and mentally.

Ruger is loving it, too. Spring cleaning his health did wonders for Dave, both physically and mentally.

That was it.

How can you tidy up your bad health habits? Here are some ideas:

• Read more articles. Take time to read all the articles in this issue of St. George Health & Wellness Magazine. Then, apply what you learn.

At the time, I didn’t fully get it. But the older I’ve gotten, the more I’ve come to appreciate what he meant. He was saying that life doesn’t have one single path. There is not just one right way to be successful, or healthy, or happy. There are hundreds of ways. Thousands even. The important part is that you’re moving toward something good, something bigger than yourself.

• Swap your soda for sparkling water. It may sound simple, but ditching sugary drinks can make a big difference. Add a squeeze of citrus for some flavor!

That simple phrase has stayed with me ever since. I think it applies to more than just career choices or big life decisions. It applies to how we approach our health and wellness, too.

• Trade the elevator for the stairs. Your heart will thank you. And those extra steps will help you to reach your daily step count.

You might be someone who thrives at the gym with headphones in and a goal to hit ten thousand steps a day. Or maybe you’re the type who finds peace in gardening, painting, or sitting still long enough to remember that breathing is a skill.

• Dust off your workout gear. Remember those fancy yoga pants you bought with good intentions? Time to unleash their inner warrior! Even a short workout is better than no workout at all.

Some people get to their version of Mecca by waking up at 4:30 a.m. for yoga and smoothies. Others get there by finally learning how to say no without guilt. Some walk. Some crawl. Some get there through tears. Some through laughter. Every path looks different, but the destination is the same. We all just want to feel better, stronger, calmer, more connected, more alive.

• Declutter your kitchen. Get rid of those processed snacks lurking in your pantry. Replace them with fresh fruits and veggies—a vibrant spring bouquet for your insides!

That is what health and wellness really mean. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being in motion and being honest with yourself about what matters most along the way.

• Make sleep a priority. Spring days are longer, so don’t waste them feeling tired. Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night.

I didn’t realize it at the time, but working with my dad was more than just a part-time job; it was a classroom. Every broken fridge and burnt-out dryer came with a lesson. Be patient. Pay attention. Know when to get help. And above all else, take care of the people around you.

Remember, spring cleaning your health is not about drastic changes; it is about making small, sustainable swaps. Think of it as a fun project, a chance to invest in yourself. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your metaphorical cleaning supplies (healthy snacks, comfy walking shoes), and get ready to feel your best this spring!

Those same lessons apply today. Whether you’re dealing with a leaky faucet or a leaky gut, the same principles hold up. Show up. Stay humble. Keep going. Give yourself permission to take a different road if the one you’re on isn’t working.

This issue of St. George Health & Wellness is packed with tools, advice, and stories to help you keep moving forward. You’ll read about people who’ve taken their own winding paths toward healing. You’ll find ideas that make the journey a little lighter. You might even recognize your own story in someone else’s.

Whatever your version of Mecca looks like, I hope this reminds you that you don’t have to get there all at once. You just have to keep going. So, whether you’re starting a new chapter in your life or still trying to figure out which direction to head, just remember the words my dad shared with me.

All the Best,

There are many roads to Mecca. And yours is just as worthy as anyone else’s.

Brendan Dalley Editor Brendan Dalley Editor

Brendan Dalley Editor

Brendan Dalley Editor Brendan Dalley Editor

Erin Del Toro, ACHE Clinical Hypnotherapist Author, Mind and Body

of Operations, Copy and Design Editor

Diane K. Del Toro Director of Operations, Copy and Design Editor

and Well-Being Life Coach

Erin Del Toro, ACHE Clinical Hypnotherapist Author, Mind and Body Body

8 www.sghealthandwellnessmagazine.com

StGeorgeHW0424_rev03.indd 8

For information on advertising or other inquiries, visit our website at www.sghealthandwellnessmagazine.com, email diane.sghealth@gmail.com or call us at (435) 236-2966. The publisher is not responsible for the

Dr. Grace Wathen DACM, L.Ac., MS Author, Mind and Body For information on advertising or other inquiries, visit our website at www.sghealthandwellnessmagazine.com, email diane.sghealth@gmail.com or call us at (435)

Fitness Product, VASA Fitness Author, Health and Fitness

Brendan Dalley Executive Editor

Rob Henderson, LASUDC, CTRS Author, Mind and Body

Annelies Newman, RDN, CD Author, Nutrition and Healthy Eating

L. Steven Wilson Author, Purposeful Living

William Plumb, DDS Author, Oral Health

Brendan Dalley Executive Editor

Koby Taylor, PharmD Executive Editor, Author Koby Taylor, PharmD Executive Editor, Author uthor, Director

Scott Allen, MD Author, Health and Wellness

Brigit Atkin Author, Mind and Body Author, Mind and Body

Brigit Atkin Author, Mind and Body

Anita DeLelles, LMT, LAMT Author, Pet Wellness

Anita DeLelles, LMT, LAMT Pet Wellness

Brigit Atkin Author, Mind and Body

Jessica Elgin Author, Economic and Financial Health

Erin Del Toro, ACHE Clinical Hypnotherapist Author, Mind and Body

Anita DeLelles, Author, Pet

Lyman Hafen Author, Community and Culture

Marianne Hamilton Author, Community

Annelies Newman, RDN, CD Author, Nutrition and Healthy Eating

Matt Eschler, Author, Relationships

William Plumb, DDS Author, Oral Health

Lyman Hafen Author, Community and Culture

Author Diane K. Del Toro Director of Operations, Copy and Design Editor

Scott Allen, MD Author, Health

Clinical Anita DeLelles, LMT, LAMT Author, Pet Wellness

Marianne Hamilton Author, Community and Culture

L. Steven Wilson Author,

William Plumb, DDS Author, Oral Health

Branden DuCharme Author, Financial Health

Marianne Hamilton Author, Community and Culture

Gini Grimsley, Director of Fitness Product, VASA Fitness Author, Health and Fitness

Tiffany Gust, MS, NBC-HWC, USA Triathlon Certified Coach Author, Health and Fitness

Diane K.

Scott Allen, MD Author,

Brigit Atkin Author, Mind and Body

Jessica Elgin Author, Economic and Financial Health

Erin Del Toro, ACHE Clinical Hypnotherapist Author, Mind and Body

Anita DeLelles, LMT, LAMT Author, Pet Wellness

Author, Community and Culture

Rob Henderson, LASUDC, CTRS Author, Mind and Body

Marianne Hamilton Author, Community and Culture

Annelies Newman, RDN, CD Author, Nutrition and Healthy Eating

L. Steven Wilson Author, Purposeful Living

Matt Eschler, PhD, LMFT Author, Relationships and Family

Chris Eschler Author, Health

Branden DuCharme Author, Financial Health

Annelies Newman, RDN, CD Author, Nutrition and Healthy Eating

Tiffany Gust, MS, NBC-HWC, USA Triathlon

Author,

Brigit Atkin Author, Mind and Body

Jessica Elgin Author, Economic and Financial Health

Erin Del Toro, ACHE Clinical Hypnotherapist Author, Mind and Body

Anita DeLelles, Author, Pet

Lyman Hafen Author, Community and Culture

Marianne Hamilton Author, Community

Annelies Newman, RDN, CD Author, Nutrition and Healthy Eating

Matt Eschler, Author, Relationships

William Plumb, DDS Author, Oral Health

Tiffany Gust, MS, NBC-HWC,

Gini Grimsley, Director of Fitness Product, VASA Fitness Health and Fitness

NBC-HWC, Certified Coach Fitness

Koby Taylor, PharmD Executive Editor, Author

Diane K. Del Toro Director of Operations, Copy and Design Editor

Scott Allen, MD Author, Health and Wellness

Erin Del Toro, ACHE Clinical Hypnotherapist Author, Mind and Body

Anita DeLelles, LMT, LAMT Author, Pet Wellness

Lyman Hafen Author, Community and Culture

Marianne Hamilton Author, Community and Culture

Annelies Newman, RDN, CD Author, Nutrition and Healthy Eating

L. Steven Wilson Author, Purposeful Living

Matt Eschler, PhD, LMFT Author, Relationships and Family

William Plumb, DDS Author, Oral Health

Branden DuCharme Financial Health

Matt Eschler, PhD, LMFT Author, Relationships and Family Life Coach

Chris Eschler Author, Health and Well-Being Life Coach

Lyman Hafen

William Plumb, DDS Author, Oral Health

Branden DuCharme Author, Financial Health

Gini Grimsley, Director of Fitness Product, VASA Fitness Author, Health and Fitness

Tiffany Gust, MS, NBC-HWC, USA Triathlon Certified Coach Author, Health and Fitness

Brendan Dalley Executive Editor

Koby Taylor, PharmD Executive Editor, Author

Diane K. Del Toro Director of Operations, Copy and Design Editor

Scott Allen, MD Author, Health and Wellness

Brigit Atkin Author, Mind and Body

Jessica Elgin Author, Economic and Financial Health

Erin Del Toro, ACHE Clinical Hypnotherapist Author, Mind and Body

Anita DeLelles, LMT, LAMT Author, Pet Wellness

Lyman Hafen Author, Community and Culture

Rob Henderson, LASUDC, CTRS Author, Mind and Body

Marianne Hamilton Author, Community and Culture

Annelies Newman, RDN, CD Author, Nutrition and Healthy Eating

L. Steven Wilson Author, Purposeful Living

Matt Eschler, PhD, LMFT Author, Relationships and Family

Chris Eschler Author, Health and Well-Being Life Coach

William Plumb, DDS Author, Oral Health

Branden DuCharme Author, Financial Health

L. Steven Wilson Author, Purposeful Living

Mark Wade Author, Outdoor Adventure

Gini Grimsley, Director of Fitness Product, VASA Fitness Author, Health and Fitness

Tiffany Gust, MS, NBC-HWC, USA Triathlon Certified Coach Author, Health and Fitness

Brendan Dalley Executive Editor

Koby Taylor, PharmD Executive Editor, Author

Diane K. Del Toro Director of Operations, Copy and Design Editor

Scott Allen, MD Author, Health and Wellness

Brigit Atkin Author, Mind and Body

Jessica Elgin Author, Economic and Financial Health

Erin Del Toro, ACHE Clinical Hypnotherapist Author, Mind and Body

Anita DeLelles, LMT, LAMT Author, Pet Wellness

Lyman Hafen Author, Community and Culture

Rob Henderson, LASUDC, CTRS Author, Mind and Body

Marianne Hamilton Author, Community and Culture

Annelies Newman, RDN, CD Author, Nutrition and Healthy Eating

L. Steven Wilson Author, Purposeful Living

Matt Eschler, PhD, LMFT Author, Relationships and Family

Chris Eschler Author, Health and Well-Being Life Coach

William Plumb, DDS Author, Oral Health

Branden DuCharme Author, Financial Health

MA YO R ’S MESSA GE

As summer gives way to fall and the temperatures cool down into the double digits, the activities heat up in St. George! September and October are two of the most exciting months of the year in our community, and I encourage everyone to get out and enjoy some incredible experiences.

I invite you to attend a heartfelt and meaningful event close to all of our hearts—Remembering 9/11—set for September 11, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at Historic Town Square. This will be the sixth year our City and many community partners have gathered to honor those we lost, recognize the heroes of that day, and reflect on how our nation came together. It’s a powerful reminder of the strength and unity of our community.

You’ll also want to mark your calendars for September 15 through 21, 2025. That’s when Dixie Days returns! A vibrant celebration of our community that offers something for everyone, Dixie Days captures the heart of who we are in St. George. Details and schedule of events are available at sgcityutah.gov/dixiedays.

One of our most cherished fall traditions is the St. George Marathon, now in its forty-ninth year. Taking place October 4, this iconic race draws thousands of runners from around the nation—and the world—to experience one of the most scenic courses anywhere.

Another signature event returning in October is the Huntsman World Senior Games, held from October 6–18. Each year, we welcome thousands of athletes ages fifty and older from all corners of the globe to compete, connect, and celebrate healthy aging. From pickleball to track and field to team sports, the Games showcase the vitality of our active senior community and are always a joy to witness.

There’s something truly magical about autumn in St. George. I hope you take time to enjoy the cooler weather, the beauty of our red rock landscapes, and the many wonderful events that bring us together.

Mayor, City of St. George

Distinguished Members of the Community,

The 2025–26 academic year is off to a fantastic start. The beginning of the semester ushers in many opportunities for the entire community to come to campus, engage with students, and feel the momentum. There is no better time than Homecoming Week to experience the energy of our thriving University for yourself. Please plan to join Utah Tech in celebrating our University’s rich heritage, outstanding alumni, and Trailblazer spirit.

Miss Utah Tech Competition

Oct. 21 | 7:30 p.m. | Eccles Main Stage Theater | $10

Utah Tech Trailblazers vs. Abilene Christian Volleyball Game

Oct. 23 | 6 p.m. | Burns Arena

19th President of Utah Tech University Inauguration Ceremony and Reception

Oct. 24 | 10:30 a.m. | Eccles Main Stage Theater | Free Carnival, Live Music, and Drone Show

Oct. 24 | 5:30-8 p.m. | Encampment Mall | Free Homecoming Parade

Oct. 25 | 10 a.m. | University Avenue, between 100 South and 600 South | Free

Trailblazer Village Tailgate Oct. 25 | 3:30-5:30 p.m. | Atwood Innovation Plaza parking lot | Free

Utah Tech Trailblazers vs. Southern Utah Thunderbirds Football Game

Oct. 25 | 6 p.m. | Greater Zion Stadium

For a complete schedule of all Utah Tech University Homecoming events and specific times, be sure to visit utahtech.edu/homecoming

Whether you’ve been attending Homecoming festivities for decades or are new to Trailblazer Nation like I am, I look forward to celebrating our incredible alumni, students, and rich history with you.

Sincerely,

Shane B. Smeed

Utah Tech University President

Eating Together Benefits Your Family

Article Courtesy of Family Features

Sharing a meal offers far more than a full stomach; the benefits of eating together extend well beyond the dinner table.

According to the 2025 World Happiness Report, evidence suggests that sharing meals has a substantial impact on an individual’s well-being. Those who regularly eat with others report higher levels of life satisfaction, social support, and positive reciprocity. They also report less loneliness.

In their “2025 Family Meals Barometer Survey,” the FMI Foundation—which delivers research, collaboration, and education to address food safety, health, and nutrition concerns—provided these insights on how sharing a meal can improve your family’s overall well-being:

1. Civil and Respectful Interactions

In a world full of distractions, it may come as no surprise that the “2025 Family Meals Barometer” survey found poor communication is a leading concern among parents, more worrisome than schoolwork or chores.

More than two-thirds of respondents expressed a belief that civility in America is worse today compared to ten years ago, but 74 percent said family meals are a great time to have and teach respectful interactions. Frequent family meals create a safe environment for families to discuss thornier societal issues.

2. Better Nutrition

Numerous studies have shown families who eat more meals together have healthier eating habits and better diets in general. Family meals at home typically make it easier to fill plates with food from each food group. What’s more, parents who prepare wellbalanced meals and model healthy food choices allow children to mirror and adopt similar habits.

3. Improved Family Function

In the “2025 Family Meals Barometer” survey, respondents cited having more time to spend together and family meals as the top two ways they feel more connected to family and loved ones. With busy school and extracurricular schedules, many families are hard-pressed to find quality time together without distractions. Gathering around the dinner table is an opportunity to connect with one another and talk about what’s happening at work, at school, and with friends.

4. Better Grades at School

Numerous factors affect students’ academic performance, but eating together as a family helps reinforce many of the variables thought to influence student success. More nutritious meals play a role in stronger cognitive function. Multiple researchers found that children who are part of families that eat together regularly tend to have a stronger vocabulary and higher grades.

5. Improved Mental Health

Another way family meals benefit students at school and beyond is stronger mental and emotional health. In several independent studies, researchers found a positive correlation between family meals and selfesteem, psychosocial outcomes, and other markers of mental health.

Make Dinner Prep a Family Affair

The benefits of eating together as a family don’t have to wait until everyone is at the table. During dinner prep, parents and children have a chance to work elbowto-elbow and talk about their days. When children participate in preparing healthy food, they may be more interested in eating it. As an added bonus, kids who take part in food preparation enjoy the benefits of building their own life skills.

DIY dishes that put kids in charge of what goes on their plates can be a fun way to bring the family together and make meal prep easy. You can customize salad kits with a selection of protein options, create your own personal pizzas, or serve a bar-style dinner such as nachos, baked potatoes, or tacos that let each family member choose their own toppings.

Learn how gathering around the dinner table supports your family’s nutritional, social, mental, and emotional health at fmi.org/family-meals-movement.

Create a Family-Friendly Grazing Board

A beautifully designed charcuterie board may feel more like a grown-up treat, but with the right ingredients, delicious grazing boards can provide fun and nutrition for the whole family.

No matter what you call it, charcuterie boards, grazing boards, and snack platters are all basically the same thing. The boards make a trendy addition to an entertaining menu, but a platter or kid-friendly board can be equally pleasing.

What you serve on a grazing board is entirely up to you. Most include a selection of meats and cheeses, and many incorporate nuts, crackers, dips, and jams. Some also incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables. Creating your own board means there really are no rules; you can add just about anything you want.

To build a successful board, keep these tips in mind:

Choose ingredients and elements that don’t require temperature control. The idea of a grazing board is that it sits out for a while. Avoid foods that need heat or refrigeration or foods that will lose their shape or flavor if they rest for an extended amount of time.

Select a surface large enough to hold a variety of food. It can be a simple cutting board or a cute platter. There’s no specific size requirement, but err on the side of bigger. Spacing out your goodies can be more attractive and less messy.

Build your board around a theme to add an extra element of fun. Use mini cookie cutters to make fun, kid-friendly shapes out of cheese and meats. Be mindful of colors; a rainbow platter is vibrant and appealing, and colorful fruits and veggies offer a strong mix of nutrients.

Remember, it doesn’t have to be elaborate. Classic favorites are all you need. Even kid favorites like sections of mandarin oranges, carrot sticks, and chocolate chips are fair game for a family-friendly board.

Find more ideas for creating family-friendly treats at healthyfamilyproject.com

Taco Tuesday Board

Arrange the following Ingredients on a cutting board:

• Guacamole

• Salsa

• Queso

• Hard and soft taco shells

• Ground turkey, seasoned and browned

• Lettuce

• Diced tomatoes

• Shredded cheese

• Chopped onions

• Chopped peppers

• Sour cream

• Cilantro

• Lime wedges

Recipe courtesy of Healthy Family Project’s “Come Graze With Us.” Go to healthyfamilyproject.com/how-to-build-the-perfect-charcuterie-board/ for more grazing board ideas and recipes.

Making Connections: Donna MacBean’s Nonprofit Feeds Children in Need

By Marianne Hamilton

In bucolic, family-friendly Southern Utah, all children enjoy an idyllic existence, right? Wrong! Of Washington County’s approximately 35,000 students in grades K-12, 17,000 live with food insecurity. It’s an ongoing source of frustration— and for the past decade, has been a call to action—for Donna MacBean and Neighborhood Connection, the nonprofit she launched in response.

A native of Canada, Donna moved to the area twenty years ago with her husband, Eric, after their successful stint as antique dealers. They’d discovered St. George on their junkets between their homeland and Turlock, California, where auctions were abundant and lucrative. The culture they found in our corner of the state was undeniably compelling.

“You know how darn friendly it is here,” Donna laughed. “We instantly found a bunch of friends, so we stayed.” The duo started a janitorial cleaning company, quickly establishing a devoted client base. But Eric unexpectedly passed away

in 2015. Soon after, Donna was driving to a job and experienced a tearful, total meltdown. “I just couldn’t do it anymore,” she recalled.

Prior to her mate’s passing, Donna and Eric began assembling food boxes for distribution to the needy during the holidays (a project that would continue for roughly fifteen years). That bit of philanthropy had its origins in a wrongnumber call from a stranger, asking for help. “Would you be willing to put together food supplies for fifteen families for Christmas?” the caller asked.

Recalled Donna, “We had no idea what we were doing, so I told the woman I’d call her back. Eric said, ‘We can’t do that; where will we get the money?’ Then after we got home from a cleaning job, he walked in and said, ‘I suppose we’re doing this, right?’ And that’s how we started doing that every year.”

Another chance conversation, this time at a fundraising gala for the Assistance League, led to the formation of Neighborhood

Connection. Donna and fellow attendee Erin O’Brien, a professor of biology at Utah Tech and director of the eSMART summer STEM camp for young girls, learned that the free or reduced-price lunches children consumed during the school year were often their only meal of the day, with many going hungry on weekends. Donna, unaware that such conditions existed in St. George, was incredulous.

“I said, ‘For goodness sakes, how hard could that be?’ What an incredibly stupid thing that was to say,” Donna acknowledged, smiling ruefully. “I had no clue how to start or what I was getting into. But I did know the right people to ask.”

That group included Erin as well Carol Hollowell, Switchpoint founder and executive director, and Jim Sippel, a CPA and the CEO of SCO Financial Advisors, Inc. Carol agreed to set aside some food items from her pantry, while Jim filed the paperwork needed to establish the newly christened Neighborhood Connection as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Thanks to Donna’s many community contacts and

Donna MacBean, 2023 Element Award Recipient, St. George Chamber of Commerce

volunteerism—with the Elks Lodge, the Rotary, various Chambers of Commerce, Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Dove Center, and many other organizations—donations of food and money soon materialized.

One of the most important partners for Neighborhood Connection was Lorna Koci, director of the Bountiful Community Food Pantry, which feeds more than 3,000 children every Friday and distributes over 2,000,000 meals free of charge to low-income families. Lorna generously provided Donna with the formula for assembling food packs and the marketing materials needed to get the word out.

“Without her help, I would never have known what to do,” said Donna. “She shared the practical stuff, like what kinds of zip-lock bags to use, what products to buy, and how to insert them so the bags wouldn’t break. She also said ‘Use my advertising, put your name on it, and you’ll be fine. We’re not in competition with each other; we’re here to feed kids and help each other.’”

Now, one gallon-sized bag contains enough child-friendly, shelf-stable food for two breakfasts, two lunches, and several snacks. The packs, which feature kid-approved mac and cheese, Vienna sausages, pudding cups, protein bars,

and other items, are assembled with the help of more than 150 volunteers, whose efforts feed 800 children weekly.

Among Donna’s many helping hands are Rotarians, Rocky Vista University students, Boy Scouts, church members of every denomination, Utah Tech faculty members, and many more—including, back in March of this year—Abby Cox, wife of Utah Governor Spencer Cox. Donna has nothing but praise for Utah’s First Lady.

“She came on a cold, blustery morning, and I told her we didn’t have to go pack when it was so nasty outside. Abby said, ‘No, no; we’re here to pack!’ She was just

About the Author

lovely; very easy to talk to. I was really flattered that she picked us and was willing to work in my freezing garage.”

Additional (and very justifiable) accolades come Donna’s way continuously. In naming her one of the 2023 Element Award recipients, the St. George Area Chamber of Commerce noted that Donna has been called the “Mother Theresa of Southern Utah,” while the Dixie Elks presented her with their 2013 Distinguished Citizenship Award for Outstanding and Meritorious Service to Humanity. She was also named Utah State Ladies of Elks Lady Elk of the Year in 2015.

Reflecting on the many commendations she has received since her move to St. George, Donna’s humility is evident. “I’m honored that anyone would think of me,” she said. “But our success isn’t on any one woman’s shoulders. Without all of our volunteers and donors, without all of the people who started with us, none of this would have been possible.

“And honestly,” Donna concluded, “I’m alone, and I need to keep busy. If I weren’t doing this, I’d probably go crazy.”

For more information about Neighborhood Connection, or to be a donor or volunteer, visit https://neighborhoodconnection.net/

Marianne L. Hamilton is a veteran journalist and marketing writer whose work appears in regional and national publications. When not racewalking on our local trails, she serves on the board of the Kayenta Arts Foundation and supports the City of St. George as a grants writer for arts and recreation programs. She and her husband, Doug, are also co-administrators of the Southern Utah Wine Guild, founders and co-directors of the United State Power Walking Association, and race directors for the Huntsman World Senior Games. The former Ms. Senior Universe 2022-2023, Marianne is a proud breast cancer survivor and a member of the Intermountain Health Oncology Patient-Family Advisory Council.

Abby Cox, First Lady of Utah, center (in white parka)

BY FUSION PHARMACY

SANTA CLARA

Canyon View Dr. & Sunset Blvd. (435) 703-9680

1100 Canyon View Dr., Suite C

Santa Clara, UT 84765

1100 Canyon View Dr., Suite C Santa Clara, UT 84765

Fax: (855) 853-3465

Email: rx@rx-fusion.com

Fax: (435) 656-3059 Email: fp@rx-fusion.com SANTA

Email: rx@rx-fusion.com

WHY LOCAL ELECTIONS MATTER IN WASHINGTON COUNTY

By the Washington County Board of Realtors®

Living in Washington County—from St. George and Washington to Hurricane, Ivins, and La Verkin—means being part of a rapidly growing region facing complex infrastructure challenges and evolving neighborhood dynamics. Here, municipal elections are far more than civic formalities—they are powerful opportunities to shape the way we live, work, and thrive.

The crucial decisions that county and city leaders make affect our daily lives: water conservation and treatment, housing development, transportation planning, utility expansion, education funding, and the preservation of our natural spaces. These decisions influence not only the present but also the long-term quality of life in our communities.

Residential growth, land use planning, street design, and utility infrastructure all directly impact home values, neighborhood character, and even your day-to-day expenses. Whether you’re a homeowner, a renter, a builder, or an investor, these issues affect you. Participating in community initiatives and voting in local

elections are essential ways to ensure your voice is heard in these matters.

Voter turnout for Washington County’s 2021 municipal elections dropped significantly, lagging far behind participation in state and federal races. With fewer voters at the polls, each individual vote held even more weight, shaping the outcomes of city council elections, bond measures, and key policy decisions.

Local government in Washington County isn’t some far-off entity, it’s our neighbors, colleagues, and community members. These elected officials rely on the support and feedback of residents as they make crucial choices about school funding, zoning regulations, infrastructure investment, road maintenance, and the development of parks and public spaces.

“When the public engages with their local leaders, it builds accountability, strengthens transparency, and enhances community trust,” said Emily Merkley, Chief Executive Officer of the Washington County Board of REALTORS®.

REALTORS® are actively involved in supporting the health, stability, and future of the communities they serve. They understand that strong, flourishing neighborhoods depend on sound policies, responsible planning, and civic participation.

Involvement in municipal elections ensures that residents have a say in shaping the present and future of their communities. Staying informed, voting, and participating in public discussions are essential to building a thriving, resilient Washington County.

A community grows stronger when its citizens are informed, engaged, and empowered. Be a part of the decisions that shape our shared future.

A Growing Hub for Holistic Healing Southern Utah’s Wellness Movement

By Angel Lyn

Southern Utah is changing—and with that change comes a quiet but powerful movement centered around holistic wellness, openminded living, and heart-centered community.

As a native of St. George with deep pioneer roots and a background in social work, I’ve had the privilege of watching our region grow with both curiosity and hope. Over the last decade, I began to notice a pattern: people were relocating here not just for the scenery but for something less tangible—something they could feel. Many said they felt “called” to this land. Others said that they were just passing through and felt a surprising nudge to stay.

Again and again, I met individuals who were health-conscious, spiritually curious, and eager to build meaningful connections. They brought with them unique healing modalities, ranging from functional and integrative medicine to trauma-informed therapy, energy work, nutrition, yoga, breathwork, and more. It became clear: Southern Utah is becoming a magnet for those who are not only seeking healing but who are offering it.

Our modern health challenges—rising anxiety, chronic illness, disconnection—call us to reimagine healing in more integrated ways. My own work in mental health led me beyond talk therapy into somatic and energetic approaches that honor the full human experience. I’ve seen how movement, breath, storytelling, and spiritual inquiry can open doors that conversation alone cannot.

What’s emerging here is more than a wellness trend; it’s a cultural shift. This region is becoming a place where people come not only to visit but to belong. It’s a growing community of open-hearted individuals committed to learning from one another, exploring new practices, and supporting personal and collective growth.

One of the most meaningful insights I’ve gained came from a young friend who told me, “I don’t want to be around likeminded people. I want to be around open-minded people.” That sentiment reflects the spirit of this movement: one of curiosity, compassion, and courage.

Southern Utah is ready to welcome diverse perspectives, try new ways of healing, and grow in connection. One way I’ve chosen to support this evolution is through the creation of Yin on Fire, a four-day annual healing arts event dedicated to experiential healing and community connection. It’s just one expression of a much larger wave of transformation happening here.

Wherever you are on your journey— whether you are a longtime local or have just arrived—consider exploring a new healing modality, attending a wellness workshop, or simply striking up a conversation with one of the many practitioners quietly enriching our community. You might be surprised by the wisdom, care, and connection waiting just around the corner. Southern Utah is more than a beautiful place to live. It’s becoming a vibrant sanctuary for growth, healing, and wholeness.

About the Author Angel Lyn, MSW, visionary founder of Yin on Fire, and author of Soul-U-lar Evolution: A Mormon Woman’s Transcendent Journey to Love, is a native of St. George, Utah. She loves live music, dancing, comedy, and connection through deep conversations.

Botox or Filler?

By Sara Poole

In my practice, I frequently see patients who are concerned about facial changes associated with aging. To help address these concerns, neurotoxins and dermal fillers are widely used in aesthetic medicine to reduce visible signs of aging.

Neurotoxins and dermal fillers are among the most popular choices for nonsurgical facial rejuvenation today. While they are often mentioned together and can even complement each other in treatment plans, they work in very different ways and serve distinct purposes. Understanding these differences is key for anyone considering cosmetic procedures or simply wanting to make informed choices.

What Are Neurotoxins?

At Riverside Medical Arts, we offer several types of neurotoxins— including Botox®, Dysport®, Jeuveau®, and Daxxify®. Each of these neurotoxins are injectable medications derived from botulinum toxin type A. Their primary function is to temporarily relax targeted facial muscles by blocking nerve signals that trigger muscle contraction.

When injected into targeted muscles, neurotoxins can temporarily diminish the appearance of dynamic wrinkles. Dynamic wrinkles are wrinkles that are formed by repeated facial expressions such as frowning, smiling, or squinting. The most commonly treated areas include horizontal forehead lines, crow’s feet around the eyes, and frown lines between the eyebrows (often called “11s”).

Neurotoxin treatment results typically begin to appear within three to seven days, with full effects in about two weeks. Results last about three to four months, depending on the individual, product, and dosing. To achieve the best long-term results, maintaining consistency with your treatments is essential.

What Are Fillers?

Dermal fillers injected beneath the skin help restore lost volume, smooth static wrinkles, and enhance facial contours. At Riverside Medical Arts, we offer two types of fillers: hyaluronic acid and bio stimulators.

About the Author

Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are injectable gels made from a naturally occurring substance in the skin that help retain moisture and elasticity. A bio stimulator is a substance that stimulates the skin’s natural processes to produce collagen and elastin, helping to improve skin quality, restore volume, and reduce signs of aging over time. Common treatment areas for fillers include cheeks, chin, jawline, and lips.

Depending on the type of filler and treatment area, results can last six months to two years.

Can Neurotoxins and Fillers Be Used Together?

Yes! In fact, combining neurotoxins and fillers is a common practice in aesthetics. This approach addresses both the musclerelated wrinkles and the volume loss that contribute to aging, providing a more comprehensive and natural-looking result.

While both neurotoxins and dermal fillers are safe and effective when administered by trained professionals, the right treatment depends on your specific concerns and goals. Neurotoxins are ideal for expression lines, while fillers are best for restoring lost volume and smoothing deeper lines. At Riverside Medical Arts, our aesthetic injectors offer complimentary consultations. With their expertise, they will assess your facial anatomy and discuss your desired outcome to determine the most effective approach. Customized treatment plans ensure the safest and most optimal results.

Call Riverside Medical Arts at 435-628-6466 for a complimentary consultation. To learn more about the services provided by Riverside Medical Arts, visit their website at riversidemedicalarts.com

Sara Poole began working for Riverside Medical Arts in their cosmetic surgical services in 2012 and is the Director of Nursing. Her surgical experience has allowed her to have an excellent understanding of the natural aging changes in the face and body. She is a highly skilled and compassionate nurse Injector. With a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and extensive training in injectables, Sara specializes in providing nonsurgical cosmetic procedures that enhance natural beauty and restore youthful vitality. Sara is committed to delivering exceptional patient care in a comfortable and welcoming environment where every client is treated with respect and individual attention.

Strong Bones for Life

Exercise as Medicine for Osteopenia and Osteoporosis

By Tiffany K. Gust, MS, Exercise Physiologist

As we age, our bones naturally lose density, putting many adults at risk for osteopenia and osteoporosis. These conditions weaken bones and significantly increase the risk of fractures, especially in adults over age fifty. But here’s the good news: exercise is a powerful antidote.

According to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), physical activity is a first-line intervention for both preventing and managing low bone density. Just like muscles, bones respond to stress. The right types of movement can stimulate bone remodeling, improve balance, and reduce fall risk.

Osteopenia is the early stage of bone loss where bone mineral density (BMD) is below normal but not yet at osteoporosis levels. Approximately 43.1 percent of adults aged fifty and over in the United States have low bone mass (osteopenia).

Osteoporosis is a more advanced loss of bone mass that increases fracture risk, especially in the spine, hips, and wrists. Estimates suggest that half of all women and a quarter of all men over fifty will experience osteoporosis.

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have consistently shown that exercise improves bone density and reduces fall related injuries. In a twelve-month RCT, high-intensity progressive resistance training in postmenopausal women increased lumbar spine and femoral neck BMD by 2.9 percent and 0.3 percent respectively, compared to declines in control groups (Watson et al., 2015). Another study found that combining balance and strength training reduced fall risk by over 40 percent (Liu-Ambrose et al., 2004).

The ACSM Recommends a Multi-Modal Approach

1. Resistance Training (two to three times per week):

• Focus on major muscle groups, such as squats, rows, and leg press.

• Use moderate to high loads, about 70 to 85 percent of one repetition maximum, with proper form and supervision.

• Weight-bearing exercises, such as squats and lunges, are especially beneficial for hip and spine density.

2. Impact Training (three to five times per week):

• Include low to moderate impact activities, such as brisk walking, stair climbing, or light jogging.

• For those cleared by a physician, jumping or hopping can increase bone loading when introduced gradually.

3. Balance and Functional Training (daily or at least three times per week):

• Tai chi, tandem walking, line dancing, or single-leg stands can improve proprioception and reduce fall risk.

• Dynamic movements, like reaching or stepping patterns can be beneficial.

4. Flexibility Training (two to three times per week):

• Gentle stretching improves joint mobility, especially after resistance or aerobic training.

Avoid high-impact or twisting motions if you have advanced osteoporosis. Proper posture and technique are essential to prevent spinal compression fractures. Work with a certified exercise physiologist or physical therapist for individualized plans.

Osteopenia and osteoporosis do not mean you must stop moving. In fact, movement is medicine. With consistent, safe, and structured exercise, you can protect your bones, maintain your independence, and live a fuller, stronger life.

Intermountain Health offers a variety of classes to meet your fitness needs. Call 435-251-2256 or 435-251-3733 or email tiffany.gust@imail.org to learn more.

The first step is scheduling a Functional Fitness Assessment (FFA) to determine your current fitness level. Once that is completed, recommendations can be made to help you close the gap between where you are and where you want to be in order for you to live the healthiest life possible. What are you waiting for?

Fall Back into Routine: Reset Your Health with the New Season

By Lori Wright, CEO, Family Healthcare

As the heat of summer fades and crisp mornings return to Southern Utah, fall brings more than changing leaves—it brings the perfect chance to reset. After months of sun, travel, and irregular schedules, September and October invite us to return to routines that support our health and well-being.

The Power of Routine

After the freedom of summer, many of us welcome the rhythm that autumn brings. Regular wake times, meal patterns, and evening wind-downs help our bodies and minds feel more grounded. This is especially important for children, teens, and working adults who may have let healthy habits slide in the summer sun.

Ease back in with small changes:

• Set consistent sleep and wake times.

• Plan balanced meals using fall produce like squash and apples.

• Carve out time for movement, even if it’s just a walk after dinner.

Routine doesn’t have to be rigid. It’s about finding a rhythm that restores balance.

Reconnect with Preventive Care

Fall is also a great time to catch up on healthcare tasks that may have fallen off the radar. Whether it’s a routine physical, a dental cleaning, a mental health check-in, or a flu shot, preventive care helps you stay ahead of illness rather than reacting to it.

At Family Healthcare, we make it easy to get back on track. We offer:

• Primary care visits to manage ongoing health needs.

• Medicare Adult Wellness visits.

• Annual physicals.

• Pediatric check-ups and school-required immunizations.

About the Author

• Behavioral health support to manage stress, anxiety, or life transitions.

• Flu shots to protect you and your loved ones before winter hits.

• And more!

We accept all insurances, and new patients are seen within two weeks. Our clinics across Southern Utah—including St. George, Hurricane, Cedar City, and Springdale—offer both in-person and telehealth appointments, so care fits into your life, not the other way around.

A Mental and Emotional Reset

While routines can ground us, fall can also bring stress. The shift back to full calendars and tighter schedules can feel overwhelming. That’s why it’s important to build in moments of mental rest. Make space for your mental health:

• Take five screen-free minutes at the end of the day.

• Cultivate feelings of gratitude or practice deep breathing.

• Say no when you need rest.

And if you’re feeling stuck or struggling, we’re here to help— judgment-free.

A Season to Begin Again

Fall reminds us that change doesn’t have to be chaotic; it can be calming. As leaves turn and the air cools, we can create new patterns that support our whole health. Whether that means cooking more meals at home, getting regular sleep, reconnecting with a provider, or simply breathing deeper in the stillness of autumn, this season is a chance to begin again.

At Family Healthcare, we’re here to support you, whatever your routine looks like. Let’s make this fall a season of strength, balance, and wellness that lasts well beyond October.

Lori Wright is the CEO of Family Healthcare. With more than twenty-seven years of experience in community health, she is passionate about developing equity, where everyone can access high-quality integrated primary health care. Family Healthcare’s mission is Making Lives Better, and as CEO, Lori’s efforts are focused on improving the overall health of the patients and the communities Family Healthcare serves.

Lori serves on a variety of committees across the state and throughout Washington and Iron Counties. She is a member of the St. George Area Chamber Board of Governors, Zions Bank Southwestern Advisory Board, and Association of Community Health Centers Board. She also serves on the AUCH Health Center Control Network and is a member of Castell’s Clinically Integrated Committee. Lori has completed a BS in Community/Public Health and holds a Master of Public Administration from Brigham Young University, Marriott School of Management.

Your Accessible Primary

Your Accessible Primary Health Care Home

Welcoming

Walk-In and same-day care

Integrated

Welcoming new patients

Management

Treatment of illness, injury, and chronic conditions

Women’s health care

Integrated medical, behavioral, dental & vision care

Walk-In and urgent care

Sliding scale fees based on income and family size

Discount drive-thru pharmacy

Discount drive-thru pharmacy*

Sliding

Compassionate,

Compassionate, experienced providers

•

• Donate online at familyhc.org/give

• Scan the QR code

• Mail your donation to 276 E. Riverside Drive, St. George, UT 84770

• Volunteer by calling 435-986-2565

Migraine Treatment Has Come a Long Way

By the Vista Healthcare Team

If you’ve been battling recurring headaches and wondering if something more serious is going on, you are not alone. Many adults in Southern Utah live with migraines for years without realizing what’s causing them or that there are newer, effective treatment options available.

At Vista Neurology, now seeing patients in both St. George and Cedar City, board-certified neurologist Dr. Shawn Allen, along with Mindi LeMonds, FNP-BC, and Kelsie Montgomery, DNP, is helping patients understand the true nature of migraines and how to manage them with personalized care.

“Migraines aren’t just bad headaches,” said Dr. Allen. “They are a neurological condition that can seriously affect your quality of life.”

More Than Just a Headache

A migraine can look different from person to person. Common symptoms include throbbing or pulsing head pain, light and sound sensitivity, nausea, and even visual disturbances or numbness. Some people may only have a few attacks each year, while others face debilitating migraines multiple times a week.

“These attacks can last hours or days. Some people have just a few migraines a year,” explained Dr. Allen. “Others have them several times a week. Either way, if migraines are disrupting your life, there are treatment options.”

Understanding What’s Behind the Pain

Unlike ordinary tension headaches, migraines are a neurological disorder that involves changes in brain chemistry, blood flow, and nerve signaling.

“Hormones, sleep, weather, diet, and stress can all play a role in triggering an attack,” said Mindi LeMonds, FNP-BC.

At Vista Neurology, treatment begins with a comprehensive evaluation. The team considers your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle patterns to identify what is driving the condition and determine what will help.

“At Vista Healthcare, we look at the full picture, including your symptoms, triggers, and medical history, to create a treatment plan that works for you,” said Kelsie Montgomery, DNP.

Treatment options may include:

• Preventive medications to reduce the frequency and intensity of attacks

• Rescue medications to stop a migraine in progress

• Botox® injections for chronic migraines

• Nerve blocks for pain relief

• Trigger and lifestyle management

You Don’t Have to Live in Fear of Your Next Migraine

One of the hardest parts of living with migraines is unpredictability. Attacks can strike at work, during family events, or while you’re trying to rest. Many patients find themselves adjusting their lives around the fear of the next migraine.

“You don’t have to live in fear of your next migraine,” Dr. Allen reassured. “If you or a loved one is struggling with migraines, call or text us to schedule a visit. We’re here to help.”

When Should You See a Neurologist?

If you experience four or more headaches per month, if your symptoms are worsening, or if your current treatment isn’t helping, it may be time to consult a neurologist. Early intervention can make a big difference, especially when migraines are affecting your ability to work, sleep, or enjoy life.

Migraine Care Close to Home

With clinics in St. George and Cedar City, Vista Neurology makes it easier than ever to access expert-level care in Southern Utah. Their team, including Dr. Allen, Mindi LeMonds, FNP-BC, and Kelsie Montgomery, DNP, offers compassionate, long-term support for people living with headaches and neurological conditions. Take the first step toward relief.

Call or text (435) 619-8632 to schedule a consultation, or visit www.vista-hc.com/stgeorge-neurology

You deserve real relief from migraine pain.

Vista Neurology is here when you’re ready.

Southwest Spine and Pain St. George | 2891 East Mall Drive, Suite 101 | St. George, UT 84790 | 435-656-2424 | https://www.vista-hc.com/stgeorge-vmc-pain

Hurricane Location: 25 North 2000 West, Suite 8 | Hurricane, UT 84737 | 435-635-0174

Cedar City Location: 2311 N. Main Street | Cedar City, UT 84721 | 435-586-2229

Financial Risks and the Blind Spots That Drive Them

By Branden DuCharme, CMT

It’s not uncommon for investors to describe themselves as “risky” or “not very risky.” But this mindset may be one of the biggest paradigm shifts needed to truly transform someone’s chances of achieving their financial goals—not because being “risky” is inherently good or bad. The real issue is that the concept of “riskiness” is largely a false narrative, an idea manufactured by Wall Street and sold to Main Street to make investors feel more or less comfortable with certain financial products.

Risk is much like energy. You cannot create it. You cannot destroy it. You can only convert it. There is more risk involved in finance than the measure of how extreme the roller coaster ride on a particular portfolio may be.

Let’s begin by philosophically defining risk. I define it as the presence of a potential outcome other than the one intended. It is a rather broad definition but one that I believe answers the question of why we try to manage risk. We naturally do not like outcomes that we do not intend.

How is this commonly misunderstood in personal financial planning?

Most people don’t enjoy the ups and downs of the financial markets. This discomfort makes it easy for slick-talking annuity and life insurance salespeople to prey on our natural emotions. They often suggest that market volatility isn’t just unpleasant, it’s unnecessary, and that by purchasing insurance products, we can secure guaranteed outcomes. That promise of certainty naturally makes us feel safer and more confident, even if it may not be the best strategy.

However, when we focus all our energy on one simple risk measure—“How uncomfortable is the roller coaster ride?”—we tend to overcompensate. We lose sight of other important variables, unintentionally introducing new risks we hadn’t considered. These overlooked risks can quietly creep into our financial plans, undermining the very security we were trying to create.

An insurance contract may guarantee a certain outcome, but suppose that this outcome isn’t the actual desired outcome five, ten, or even twenty-plus years into the future? In this scenario, you have signed an agreement to be paid a limited number of U.S. dollars tied to nothing more than the full faith and credit worthiness of that singular insurance company. So where is the risk?

If someone has a contract to pay you in U.S. dollars at a fixed or capped rate in the future, the value of those dollars will likely be diminished over time due to inflation. This is a key principle that has made real estate investors so well compensated: they borrow money at a fixed rate (through a mortgage) and repay it with devalued dollars—while the value of the asset often appreciates. Simply put, you’re taking on inflation risk. If inflation stays higher than expected, your so-called “safe” return may actually hold you back from reaching your financial goals. That doesn’t sound very safe to me.

Another key consideration is creditworthiness. You may have been “guaranteed” a return on your investment, but that guarantee is only as strong as the entity making the promise. Just like with bonds, if the company issuing those fixed payments goes bankrupt, the guarantee collapses, and you could lose your principal entirely. While this is a low-probability event, it introduces a new kind of risk to your financial plan—one that could be lifechanging. It deserves careful consideration.

Finally, another commonly overlooked risk is illiquidity. While many contracts include provisions for accessing funds, those provisions often come with unfavorable terms, meaning you may not have true, unconditional liquidity when you need it most. I urge investors to consider the possibility of needing large or unexpected sums of money. This isn’t limited to long-term care or nursing home expenses; it can also include major car repairs or helping children through life-changing events—whether in times of crisis or moments of joy, like assisting with a down payment on a home. Hopefully, this helps illustrate a more thoughtful way to approach risk. There’s nothing inherently wrong with financial products like annuities or life insurance. However, when used without fully considering your overall financial plan and the true nuances of risk, these products can turn out to be riskier than expected—and even potentially harmful.

I strongly encourage having your financial products and purchases reviewed by a financial advisor who is properly registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission and held to a legal fiduciary standard to act in your best interest.

As always when it comes to finances, products are not plans.

The Real Cybersecurity Risk Might Be Hiding in Your Browser

By Richard Preston, Preston Office

A couple of months ago, dozens of businesses in Southern Utah experienced a serious cyberattack that cost them both time and money. While cyberattacks happen every day, this one made the local news—and for good reason.

It all started with a single click by an employee. No sketchy email. No obvious red flags. Just an ordinary click—something we’ve all done a hundred times. But in today’s computing environment, the threats hidden in our browsers are far too easy to overlook.

Where are your employees working these days? Online? In the cloud?

We spend a lot of time talking about phishing emails, antivirus software, and firewalls, and yes, those are still important. But the truth is, most of today’s work happens inside a browser window. Teams log into cloud platforms, research vendors, test new AI tools, and handle sensitive data, all through a browser.

The problem? That browser window is wide open. One mistyped URL. One convincing popup. One hidden malware script. That’s all it takes to compromise your system. And because most employees save their login credentials in the browser, a single vulnerability can have serious ripple effects.

As business owners, we often assume that training will protect us. And training does matter. But even the smartest, most experienced people make mistakes. They’re busy. They’re human. And cybercriminals are masters at making malicious websites look completely legitimate. Human error is inevitable, but it doesn’t have to be devastating.

A Note to Fellow Business Owners on Protecting Your Team from Digital Threats

Managed Browser Security: The Game Changer Your Business Can’t Do Without

Continually evolving threats require managed technology service providers (MTSPs) to be vigilant in how they protect clients online. The browser is a security gap we can’t afford to ignore. That’s why we rolled out Managed Browser Security across the board.

Honestly, Managed Browser Security is a game changer, not because it’s flashy or complicated but because it quietly lifts a major burden. Clients no longer have to second-guess every link. While vigilance is still necessary, this tool provides a protective layer that helps teams know what is safe to click— and what’s not. It works silently in the background, blocking dangerous content, phishing attempts, ransomware traps, and malicious sites before they ever reach the user. It also helps manage passwords securely, reduces online clutter, and keeps things running smoothly. In short, Managed Browser Security delivers peace of mind—for us, and for the people we support.

Here are some questions to consider:

• Do you know how your team accesses information online?

• Do you know what happens if someone clicks on something they shouldn’t?

• Do you have protections in place that don’t rely on everyone making perfect decisions all the time?

These aren’t always urgent questions—until they are.

At the end of the day, we all want the same thing: teams that can work quickly, confidently, and securely. In today’s digital environment, that takes more than training. It takes intention— and the right kind of quiet support working behind the scenes.

About the Author Richard Preston, Owner and CEO of Preston Office Solutions in St. George, Utah, has been a trusted name in business technology for over forty years. Under his leadership, Preston Office Solutions has earned a solid reputation for exceptional sales, service, and support of office multifunction printers and large-format printing products across Southern Utah and Southern Nevada. Preston Office Solutions is more than just a print solutions provider. As a dependable IT partner, the company delivers a comprehensive suite of technology products and services—all designed to support the success and growth of every client. To learn more, contact Preston Office Solutions at 435-628-2997 or visit www.prestonoffice.com.

Solutions

Posties

By Jay Bartlett

About the Author Mountain bike veteran, amateur filmmaker, and lover of long rides, Jay Bartlett has been riding trails in Southern Utah for over thirty years. Jay has over a decade of experience as a bike mechanic at St. George’s oldest bike shop, Bicycles Unlimited.

Posties: post-ride replenishment of nutritional deficit caused by overuse of major muscle groups while enjoying an activity such as cycling.

“This climb goes on forever,” I lamented to my partners-in-ride as we neared the top of the umpteenth ascent of the day. The ride hadn’t all been hard, though. There had been the downhill sides of these climbs that rewarded our efforts with howlingly fast, gravity-fed twists and turns; berms taller than a small child that held your tires in their groove, turning centrifugal force into traction and sweat into smiles; jumps (small ones for me, thank you) that released you from the bounds of dirt and gravel for a moment, letting you feel flight; and at the bottom, high fives, laughter, and the giddiness of adrenaline—a brief respite before the next climb began.

There is a comradery to cycling: the soldiering of the climbs, the joy and speed-riddled challenge of the descents, the shared experience of tackling the world of dirt or asphalt using human power. Our group of riders threw our bodies side-to-side as we stuffed our bikes into one corner then the next, wringing the last bit of fun out of the ride before easing our way back into reality at the trailhead.

That’s when the social aspect of riding really comes to a peak: at the end of the ride when everyone is hanging around, telling trail-stories or talking bikes. That’s where the idea of “posties” originated.

Now, good common sense would tell you that after a hard workout, you should directly replenish your body with a scientifically

concocted blend of nutrients, liquids, protein, and electrolytes, and that is a great idea. But usually, as the tailgates drop down to load gear and bikes, a cooler comes out with libations maybe not so scientifically formulated but equally refreshing.

Also, depending on the time of day, a post-ride meal could be in the cards. You’ve completed an epic experience with your riding buddies, and you’re all feeling the good vibes of a fun workout, So why not extend the hang out at a local eatery? Again, science can give you an exact list of nutrients to rebuild your worn down muscles, but the body wants what the body wants, and sometimes that’s a big, melty cheeseburger or a saucy burrito from a small hole-in-the-wall place that really knows how to do it right.

After flipping the switch back and forth repeatedly between pushing the pedals as hard as you can in order to get up that punchy bit of a climb with a grimace on your face and freewheeling and sprinting between corners with a big grin on your face, your body will be saying something quite specific to you: “Feed me!” If you are training hard for an event or using the workout as a weight loss measure, you might want to think your culinary choices through a little more. But if you are caught up in the joy of riding and want the joy to continue, a “postie” of a big, savory, happy-making creation of flavors with your comrades-oftwo-wheels might be just the recovery your body ordered!

So after your next ride, stop by the local taco shop and say hi. I’ll be the guy stuffing a burrito into his sweat and dust-covered, smiling face.

UTAH

From Vein to Vial: How Dentists Are Accelerating Healing Naturally

By Dr. William Plumb, Plumb Dental

Dr William Plumb graduated from the State University of New York School of Dentistry in 2006. He opened Plumb Dental in St George, Utah, in 2009. He has received extensive continuing education in cosmetic dentistry as well as oral surgery and implantology. Dr. Plumb loves living in southern Utah with his wife Kari and their four children.

You’ve probably heard of plateletrich plasma, or PRP. The medical community has been using it in various applications for the last fifty years. Its popularity has increased in the past decade or so as more and more physicians recognize its healing benefits in everything from treating sports injuries to hair loss.

Essentially, PRP is harvested from your own body. A small amount of blood is drawn and placed in a test tube, which is then inserted into a centrifuge. The spinning process separates the plasma from the rest of the blood. The plasma has a high concentration of platelets, which not only contain clotting agents but also growth factors that stimulate healing. This platelet-rich plasma can then be injected into the affected area, where it reduces inflammation and promotes tissue regeneration.

Since the early 2000s, we’ve discovered that if no anticoagulant is mixed with the blood and the samples are spun at slower speeds, a natural, sponge-like fibrin matrix forms. This matrix contains higher concentrations of platelets and growth factors, as well as white blood cells, stem cells, and a fibrin network. The growth factors are released slowly and steadily over a couple of weeks, supporting more complete healing. I’ve found that this platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) allows me to create a bone graft that maintains its shape and adheres to the area where I place it.

Recently, I purchased a centrifuge for my office. I know there are other dental offices in town that have them as well. I’m super excited about it, and I know it will help my patients heal faster and more completely, providing us with more predictable results.

One of the first cases I used my new centrifuge on was a young patient having her wisdom teeth removed. Because we were sedating her, we had already started an IV. I was able to draw the blood I needed through the IV, load it into the centrifuge, and start the spin. Then I got to work on extracting the teeth. When the PRF was ready, I removed it from the test tube and placed it into the sockets. After that, I completed the procedure with a couple of resorbable sutures.

I was pleased to learn a couple of days later that the patient had experienced minimal swelling and little to no pain and had returned to work the next day. While these results may not be typical for every patient, it’s exciting for me to take a procedure I’ve done for years and do it better.

Since then, I’ve used PRF to preserve sockets, repair broken bones, graft around implants, and even remodel the maxillary sinus. One of my favorite aspects of my profession is the constant advancement and innovation. I often joke that the reason dentists are so interested in new technology and biomaterials is because we’re lazy: we don’t want to work hard, so we invest in advancements that make our jobs easier and more predictable. I believe the actual reason for this constant innovation is that so many of the dentists I know are perfectionists. There is a drive to always be improving—to always be better. Whatever the motivation, these innovations translate into more effective treatments and more comfortable appointments. I’m grateful for advancements like PRF applications in dentistry that allow me to be my best.

About the Author

Suicide Prevention Starts with Asking, Listening

By Lisa Larson

As society continues to grapple with an increasing rate of death by suicide, the idea of aiding a loved one struggling with mental health issues can feel overwhelming. Yet time and again, mental health professionals say one of the biggest keys to suicide prevention is simply asking the person how they are doing and then genuinely listening to the response.

Merrill

“As a society, I think we’re afraid of some of the answers,” said Jordan Merrill, community health program manager with Intermountain Health. “We generally want answers that make us feel comfortable, but if someone says they’re not OK, we need to let them know we are listening and that there is hope.”

The push to ask one more question when someone says “I’m fine” is part of a campaign coinciding with suicide prevention awareness in the hopes that people will reach out to those in their own circle of influence to offer help, hope, and assistance when needed. “We don’t want suicide to ever be the solution. There is hope,” Merrill said. One of the resources available nationwide is the option to call 988, rather than 911, when someone is experiencing a mental health crisis.

It is a national number answered by crisis workers trained to respond. “Rather than putting a strain on police or fire departments by calling 911, you’re getting specific help for a person with mental health needs,” Merrill said.

Another element in the campaign to prevent suicide is an integrated healthcare model employed by many Intermountain Health clinics and others to address social determinants of health at each medical visit. Questions regarding a person’s mood, access to food and shelter, longterm feelings of sadness, and more allow the healthcare professionals to open a conversation with a patient about their mental health in addition to addressing whatever physical ailment brought them into the clinic.

“It’s all connected,” Merrill said. “If the clinician receives any affirmative responses to the questions, they can follow up with additional questions and offer assistance by connecting them with organizations within the community that specialize in meeting those needs.” For youth and families, Stabilization Mobile Response (SMR) is designed to help families in many types of circumstances, be it a toddler having a two-hour tantrum or a teen who wrote a suicidal note. You can call 877-SAFEFAM (877-723-3326) for immediate, no-cost, confidential support if you or someone you care about needs support at home.

Jordan

prediabetes stage, the same underlying process is still at work and can lead to inflammation in the blood vessels, putting the patient at greater risk for cardiovascular disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and more,” Dr. Jones said.

Again, it all starts with asking the right questions and then listening to the answers. “The main message, especially when we talk with those in our circle of influence, is to let the person know that you care,” Merrill said. “Just be a listening ear. You don’t have to be able to solve their financial crisis, and you can’t bring back a loved one they’ve lost to death, but that person needs to be heard. They need to know someone cares enough to hear them.”

Although the news that blood glucose is in the prediabetic range may come as a surprise, it is important for the patient to consider the kinds of changes that can improve their health at this stage. This often starts with talking to their health care provider.

While there are many warning signs to watch for when engaging in conversation with people about their mental health, Merrill said some of the signs to keep in mind are any comments about wanting to die, feeling hopeless, feeling trapped, or being in unbearable pain or changes in behavior, such as becoming withdrawn, angrier, and more agitated than usual.

“It’s important for them to ask their providers what factors they can control in their personal lives to decrease their risk of diabetes,” Dr. Jones said. “In many cases, they may benefit from a nutritionist consultation, or they may be able to take advantage of benefits geared toward helping patients with prediabetes offered by their health insurance.”

“Anything out of the ordinary is an opportunity to open the conversation,” Merrill said. “Please know there is hope and there are resources that are available. Don’t hesitate to reach out or check in on how someone is doing. Your listening ear and caring concern are often just what someone in crisis needs, and when that is not enough, lean on the wonderful resources available in our area for help.”

Making changes to a patient’s diet and exercise routine can make a big difference in whether a prediabetes diagnosis eventually becomes full-scale diabetes. In Dr. Jones’s experience, the outcome is determined heavily by the motivation and willingness on the part of the patient. “If a person can lose five to ten percent of his or her body weight, it can make a clinically significant impact on a prediabetes diagnosis,” Dr. Jones said.

Additional resources include:

Other major risk factors besides being overweight include smoking and living a sedate lifestyle. “Even if you’re eating healthy, a sedentary lifestyle increases the risk,” Dr. Jones said. “Gestational diabetes also indicates higher risk.”

• Behavioral Health Navigation Support

For adults, call 833-442-2211 between 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.

For children, call Assessment, Referral and Consultation Services (ARCS) at 801-313-7711.

• Firearm Trigger Locks

Another risk factor that may be more difficult to control is genetics. “Sometimes genetics do play a role in all of this,” Dr. Jones said. “However, even if diabetes is something that a patient cannot avoid despite their best efforts, they are still going to be in a much better position to deal with the diagnosis if they are doing things to promote overall better health. Life with poorly controlled diabetes is much different than life with well-controlled diabetes.”

Intermountain can provide trigger locks to keep firearms from being used by someone in suicide crisis. To order or for more information, visit www.intermountainhealthcare.org/ZeroSuicide.

• CredibleMind

For 24/7 access to expert mental health tools with science-backed resources to help your family and friends, visit Intermountainhealth.org/TakeCharge

Things like exercising at least thirty minutes each day and eating a diet filled with nutrient-dense foods while limiting carbohydrates will go a long way to better health. “I recommend patients make sustainable changes to their eating habits instead of latching on to the latest diet fad,” Dr. Jones said. “Similarly, they should find a form of exercise that is disguised as a hobby or an enjoyable activity that will help them elevate their heart rate for at least thirty minutes.”

• General Mental Health Resources

For mental health resources at Intermountain Health, visit https://intermountainhealthcare.org/services/ behavioral-health/mental-health-resources

For people who have done all they can do with diet and exercise, Dr. Jones encourages them to discuss further options with their health care provider.

Mental Health Resources

Helping Families and Individuals Thrive

About the Author

About Author

Lisa Larson is a freelance writer with a background in public relations and public speaking and a passion for sharing great stories. You might spot Lisa with her husband and three children enjoying the downtown carousel or exploring one of the area’s hiking trails. She also enjoys reading and baking, and she is looking to rekindle her romance with running. You can find Lisa on Twitter @ LisaGLarson or at www. facebook.com/larsonlisa.

Lisa Larson is a freelance writer a background in public relations public speaking passion sharing great stories. You might spot Lisa with her husband and three children enjoying the downtown or exploring one the area’s hiking trails. She also enjoys reading baking, and she is looking to rekindle her romance with can find Lisa on Twitter @ LisaGLarson facebook.com/larsonlisa.

At Intermountain Health, we believe mental health support should be easy to ﬁnd, simple to understand, and always rooted in compassion. Whether you're raising a child, supporting a teen, or managing your own emotional health, we’re here with trusted tools and expert-backed resources. Our care meets you where you are—because your mental wellness matters at every stage of life.

Support That's Ready When You Are

• Vroom app for early brain development

• SafeUT app for real-time emotional support

Monday - Friday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.

• Resources for talking with kids about emotions

Saturday: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

• ARCS: Consultation, assessment, and referral

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

• CredibleMind self-guided wellness platform

• Live On Utah suicide prevention tools

• Behavioral Health Navigation: 833-442-2211

• Emotional wellbeing tools for parents

• Mindfulness resources from experts

Scan to access trusted tools and support

Find apps, self-care tools, crisis help, and community care options—all in one place.

Pomegranates A Fall Delight

By Annelies Newman, RDN, CD

Pomegranates are the one gift St. George has to offer Utah that most of the state cannot replace with a more plentiful crop. Give a cheer for Southern Utah! This ruby red fruit is a perfect bargaining chip to use when your out-of-town friends and relatives with green thumbs have extra fruits and vegetables that they want to exchange.

There are several varieties of pomegranates. The arils (the juicy, red, edible part of a pomegranate that surrounds the seeds) of the Utah Sweet are a lighter pink color. As the name implies, these

pomegranates are sweeter and less staining than other varieties. The Wonderful is more tart and is darker in color. Depending on the purpose for which you use them, both are desirable. There are other varieties, but these seem to be popular in this area.

I like to keep an eye on my pomegranate trees or bushes so that I can be on top of the harvest. Some pomegranates begin to ripen during the first couple of weeks in October. The tell-tale sign to look for is the cracking of the hard outer shell. This is the best sign of ripeness. The first fruits come on in mid-October, and by

Halloween and Thanksgiving, the numbers increase. While they might remain ripe on the tree for some time, you will more than likely want to pick them once they crack or the birds (and some varieties of beetles) will beat you to the fruit. Of course, I usually miss picking a few. Once it’s too late for picking, I just leave them for the birds as a healthy balance to their diets. Surely, we want healthy singing birds.

When we designed our backyard, I recalled the water starved pomegranate bushes of my childhood and decided we needed three bushes. I discovered that if you fertilize, prune, and regularly water pomegranate bushes throughout the summer, you can enjoy an abundance of fruit from just one single bush. I have enjoyed many long hours hovered over my sink, testing various recommended strategies to remove pomegranate arils. Here are some methods you can try:

1. Just whack them! This method is best with a hard wooden spoon. Basically, you cut a pomegranate in half. Open and turn one half of the fruit over so that you are holding the open end over a bowl. Hit (whack) the hard outer shell with the back of the spoon. The fruit “just falls out” —or so they say. I have experienced some success with this method. It seems that if I store the fruit in the fridge after it’s picked and the membrane dries a bit, this method works better than when I used freshly picked pomegranates.

2. Open a pomegranate while it is fully submerged in water. This is the method to use if you care about stained clothing; pomegranate will dye you and all your clothes ruby red! Basically, you break the pomegranate open and work to remove the seeds while the fruit is submerged in a full sink of water. You can also opt to wear a festive fall apron with orange and red leaves; then the stains just blend in.

3. Enlist the help of your children. For youngsters, this can be a very pleasant chore. All of you can sit outside on a cool November evening, listening to the birds chirping happily while you carefully and methodically remove each individual seed. This is not the time to use any of the methods mentioned above since relaxation—not efficiency—is the goal.

Pomegranates will keep in the fridge for quite a while. But if you have three bushes, fridge space can be limited. I like to enjoy narrated books during the long hours of opening as many pomegranates as I can. I store them in glass jars in the freezer and use them the whole year round in smoothies, muffins, hot cereal, parfaits, and salads. For those who are adventurous and like to try new things, there are many pomegranate recipes online that you can experiment with.

Pomegranates are a great source of fiber and antioxidants. I was blessed with fifteen quart-size jars of frozen pomegranates last year. I use an ice cream scoop to remove the arils whenever I want some. Pomegranates year round! Yum!

About the Author

Annelies Newman, RDN, CD, received her bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University with a major in nutrition and dietetics and a minor in music. She is a speaker and presenter on nutrition related topics. Currently, she owns a private practice guiding individuals to make changes for better health and wellness. On the side, she enjoys adventuring with her husband and three little boys outdoors. She believes that real food is good for the body and should be enjoyed!

Beyond Aesthetics

The Rise of Holistic Wellness in

St. George

By Scott Allen, MD

Size, strength, selfies. We’ve all experienced the conventional fitness center: spandex-clad influencers and podcast bros debating macros and muscle hacks. And while aesthetic culture has its place, most people just want to feel better and live longer. True wellness goes beyond macros and maxing out your bench press.

In the last decade, St. George has seen an explosion of alternative wellness centers. Places like Hive Therapy offer an integrated approach to fitness, nutrition, recovery, and even medical care. Meanwhile, True North Float invites members into the deeper realms of psychospiritual healing.

As both a physician and former competitive athlete, I often tell patients that the best wellness path is the one that resonates with them—and the one that they can stick with. Consistency always outperforms the latest fitness trend going viral on social media.

That doesn’t mean you should do the same workout for sixty years. Wellness should evolve with your life stage. Your twenties

About the Author

might be about getting swole and your fifties about staying flexible and managing chronic disease. That’s why it’s important to find a wellness center that adapts with you.

Hive offers a full spectrum of services: traditional strength and cardio training, group classes, chiropractic care, medical weight loss, physical therapy, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy.

True North, on the other hand, is a truly unique space. Their sensory deprivation float tanks support long-term mental and physical wellbeing. In today’s overstimulated world, having a place to fully unplug is more vital than ever.

Wellness isn’t about impressing others. It’s about being at peace with yourself. Greater than the thousands of likes you can rack up on Instagram is the simple act of liking who you are.

Dr. Scott Allen is a St. George-raised, board-certified anesthesiologist. He has specialty training in transplant anesthesiology and currently practices with Mountain West Anesthesiology at St. George Regional Hospital. He is also the medical director of Satori Health, an integrated ketamine clinic (www.theketamineclinic.com). Dr. Allen is the past president of the Washington County Medical Association. With his deep roots in Utah, he has a special passion for improving the mental healthcare of his friends and neighbors in the community. Dr, Allen enjoys outdoor pursuits with his family and communing with nature. He’s doing his best to stay grounded in the moment!

Tai Chi for Longevity and Mindfulness: A Conversation with a Tai Chi Master

By Shannon Mondry

Tai Chi is deeply rooted in martial arts, yet its branches extend into both the medicinal and the meditative. As a long-time karate practitioner, I was always curious about Tai Chi’s fluidity—its “meditation in motion”—and how it might benefit my karate practice. Nearly ten years ago, that curiosity led me to a class—and to an unexpected friendship with Master Gary Whitehead and his wife, Lurice. Whatever aspect of Tai Chi you choose to pursue, learning a form offers a powerful path to balance, strength, mindfulness, and longevity, especially as we age.

I recently sat down with Master Whitehead, a thirty-year practitioner, teacher, and beloved martial arts figure in the St. George community, to talk about his journey.

“I discovered Tai Chi while warming up for Kung Fu classes in Salt Lake City,” he told me. “I would watch another group quietly moving through a slow sequence. One day, I decided to try it.” That simple decision led to a path he has followed for nearly three decades.

He began practicing Kung Fu and Tai Chi in 1992, at age forty-eight, and

the Author Shannon Mondry is the head instructor

started teaching around 2000. In 2009, he moved back to his hometown of St. George, Utah, and began offering classes through the university.

Today, Master Whitehead—now in his mid70s—and Lurice teach Tai Chi together through Utah Tech Continuing Education and the Hurricane Recreation Center. “Teaching forces me to keep practicing,” he said, “There’s joy in watching students grow as they move from piecing things together to flowing with confidence.”

The form they teach is the Yang OldLong Style, made up of 108 continuous movements. Performed at the correct pace, it takes about thirty minutes and rarely pauses. “On the surface, it might not look like much,” he said. “But don’t be fooled; Tai Chi is more demanding than it appears. Moving that slowly turns each step into an isometric exercise. It challenges both your body and your patience.”

One misconception is that Tai Chi should feel aerobic. In reality, it asks the body and mind to slow down, which can be the hardest part. “Your brain wants to rush ahead, but Tai Chi teaches you to stay present,” he said. “Sometimes, when my mind wanders, I think I’ve followed the form perfectly, only to suddenly realize

I’ve skipped six moves. That moment of awareness—the discipline to bring my attention back—is one of Tai Chi’s greatest lessons.”

He’s seen students from all walks of life benefit from Tai Chi: university students seeking focus, older adults looking to stay mobile. “It’s not about perfection; it’s about persistence,” he said. “As I’ve aged, I’ve learned the importance of balance. My body might say ‘Nope’ even when my mind thinks I can hold a pose. But that’s the work: holding it just a second longer than last time.”

People often ask if they’re too old to begin. The truth is, you’re never too old. To this day, he has students in their 80s practicing with strength and grace. “If anything,” he adds, “the bigger challenge is being too young, because Tai Chi demands a patience that only time—or willingness—can teach.”

If you’re curious about Tai Chi, give it a try. Don’t worry about getting it right. Just keep moving.

About

A Healing Connection

The Power of the Dog-Human Bond

By Anita DeLelles, LMT

Dogs are deeply emotional creatures. Just like humans, they can experience stress and anxiety, which may manifest in various physical and behavioral signs. Recognizing when your dog is stressed—and knowing how to help—can greatly improve its quality of life. Interestingly, the emotional bond goes both ways: dogs are also highly attuned to human emotions and often respond to your stress with comforting behaviors of their own.

Signs Your Dog May Be Stressed

Dogs can’t tell us with words when something is bothering them, so it’s important to observe their body language and behavior. Common signs of stress in dogs include:

• Panting or drooling excessively (when not hot or after exercise).

• Pacing or restlessness.

• Whining, barking, or howling more than usual.

• Tucked tail or lowered body posture.

• Yawning or licking lips repeatedly (outside of mealtime).

• Avoidance behaviors, such as turning away, hiding, or trying to escape.

• Shedding more than usual, especially in unfamiliar situations.

• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns.

In some cases, stress can even lead to destructive behavior, house soiling, or aggression. It’s essential to determine the underlying cause, whether it’s environmental (loud noises, new people), physical (pain or illness), or emotional (separation anxiety or past trauma).

Fortunately, there are many ways to help soothe a stressed dog:

1. Create a Safe Space.

Provide a quiet, cozy area where your dog can retreat when overwhelmed. A crate with soft bedding or a secluded corner with familiar toys can help them feel secure.

2. Use Calming Techniques.

Speak in a gentle, reassuring voice. Offer slow petting or a massage, particularly on the chest or shoulders. Some dogs respond well to soft music or white noise machines.

3. Provide Exercise and Mental Stimulation.

Regular walks, play sessions, and puzzle toys can burn off excess energy and reduce anxiety. Mental enrichment is just as important as physical activity.

4. Keep a Predictable Routine.

Dogs thrive on consistency. Feeding, walking, and playtime schedules help them feel more in control of their environments.

5. Try Calming Aids.

Products such as natural supplements or anxiety vests can be effective for some dogs.

6. Seek Professional Help.

If your dog’s stress is severe or persistent, consult a pet care specialist. There may be an underlying condition that needs expert attention.

Dogs are incredibly perceptive and can detect changes in your body language, tone of voice, and even your scent. When you’re

and extra unexplained shake response periods of pets indoors pillows some the from recommend effective the summer slice harmful be which pet-safe keep that repeating. direct

sun can skyrocket in a matter of minutes, putting pets at risk of heatstroke and dehydration. If you’re running errands or heading to the store, it is best to leave your pets at home where they’ll

So there you have it. Follow these tips, and with some TLC, you will be ready to soak up the sun and make long-lasting memories with your furry companion by your side. Cheers to a

anxious or upset, your dog may sense it before anyone else. Studies show that dogs can smell chemical changes related to stress, such as increased cortisol levels in your sweat or breath.

For more information on health and wellness for your pet, visit woofcenter.com, stop by WOOF! Wellness Center & Training Academy in Santa Clara, Utah, or call 435-275-4536.

In response, your dog might try to comfort you by nuzzling, licking your face or hands, sitting in your lap, or leaning against you. Some dogs stay especially close or refuse to leave your side during emotionally difficult moments. This isn’t just coincidence—it’s a sign of the strong emotional connection you share.

Service Dogs and Anxiety Support

Some dogs go a step further by becoming trained service animals for people with anxiety disorders, PTSD, or other mental

About the Author

Join WOOF! Wellness Center & Training Academy for trainer-guided hikes. We request that dogs have completed a basic manners class or loose leash walking class to participate in the hike. Our trainer can set up a free assessment if you are not sure about your dog’s ability to join the hikes. Call 435275-4536 or visit www.woofcenter.com.

health challenges. These dogs are trained to recognize signs of an impending panic attack or episode of severe anxiety and take specific actions to help calm their handler. This might include deep pressure therapy (lying across a person’s lap), interrupting harmful behaviors, or guiding them to a safe space.

Service dogs not only provide emotional support but also offer a sense of routine and responsibility that can be incredibly therapeutic. Their training ensures they remain calm in stressful situations and provide consistent support wherever they go.

find them downright terrifying. With the coming Fourth of July and Pioneer Day (July 24) festivities ahead, it’s crucial to take extra precautions to keep furry friends safe and calm. The unexplained loud noises, bright flashes of light, and rumbling vibrations shake some dogs to the core with fear. Anxiety is an elevated response of the nervous system, which is exhausting over long periods of time. Close curtains and create a cozy hideaway in which pets can take cover during fireworks displays. A quiet room indoors or a familiar crate draped with blankets and padded with pillows for extra soundproofing provides a safe environment. Play some music, the TV, or a fan for white noise. It will help drown out the booms and bangs and calm their nerves. Many dogs benefit from calming supplements, CBD, and natural herbs. We recommend a trusted brand, Healthy Paws No More Drama, a highly effective supplement to reduce anxiety.

Dogs are not only our companions, they are emotional mirrors and healers. By learning to recognize when your dog is stressed and taking steps to comfort them, you strengthen the bond between you. At the same time, understanding how your dog reads and responds to your emotions is a powerful reminder of just how deeply connected you are.

July afternoons are perfect for a backyard barbecue. Firing up the grill with hotdogs and burgers is a uniquely American summer tradition enjoyed with family and friends. But before you slice into the watermelon, remember that some foods can be harmful to dogs and cats. Keep the grilling meats out of reach, and be mindful of foods like onions, garlic, grapes, and chocolate, which can all be toxic to pets. Instead, treat them to some pet-safe snacks like Real Meat treats or homemade pup-sicles to keep them cool and satisfied.

Anita DeLelles, LMT, is a certified equine and small animal acupressure practitioner with accreditation from the Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute and a member of IAAMB. Her Tallgrass training has included two consecutive summers in Bath, England, near where she lived as a child, as well as coursework in Colorado and northern California. Additionally, Anita is certified in animal massage from the Northwest School of Animal Massage as well as human massage in the state of Utah and is a graduate of UNLV. In 2013, Anita and her husband, Ron, opened WOOF! Wellness Center & Training Academy to serve pets and their health-conscious pet parents. WOOF! is dedicated to improving the quality of life for companion and competitive animals through fitness and conditioning, education, and proper nutrition. Anita shares her life with Ron and their overly-pampered cats in Santa Clara, Utah.

So you memories paw-some

For woofcenter.com, Academy

Last but not least, let’s address car safety. We all know that leaving a pet in a hot car is a big no-no, but it’s worth repeating. Even on mild days, the temperature inside a parked car in direct sun heatstroke to the be safe

Join for completed walking can about 275-4536

Back to School

By Lyman Hafen

Our going-on-five grandson Noah graduated from pre-school last spring. I can attest to that fact because I attended the ceremony filled with pomp, circumstance, the alphabet, lots of numbers, and even a few words shared by the graduates.

We were proud of Noah, a precocious little fellow who uses words like “perhaps” and “actually,” and phrases like “just so you know,” and “for your information.” He has a wider vocabulary at this point in his life than I had when I entered college. So it goes without saying that we were much relieved when we received his graduation invitation, complete with a handsome photo and words of celebration, to read the following at the bottom of the card: “Noah plans to continue his education and will be attending kindergarten next year.”

It was heartening to know that Noah had chosen to continue his education. We look forward to his graduation from kindergarten. It is our hope that he will continue to choose to further his education by attending first grade. What an amazing life of learning he has ahead of him.

I remember vividly my first day of kindergarten. It was a perfect day in early September, 1960. I was anxious and nervous—

actually scared to death. But I was also excited about this new adventure I’d heard so much about. It was my neighbor across the street, John McArthur, who pulled me through that day. He was in the morning kindergarten session, and I was in the afternoon group. So, when it was time for me to round the corner of Sixth South and Fifth East for the two-block walk to East Elementary, John was just rounding the corner on his way home. He must have sensed the fear simmering in my heart. He turned, and I think he put his arm around my shoulder. He walked all the way back with me to that vast, imposing building with a wide green lawn and glorious playgrounds surrounding it.

John guided me straight to Miss Jolley’s kindergarten room. He walked through the door with me as I stepped into a new world as daunting as it was exhilarating, as strange and magical as it was modest and welcoming.

John seemed to feel it his duty to escort me through that room and introduce me to its various outstanding features. He already had a full morning session under his belt, and he was proud to show me the ropes. He pointed out the desks and the tables and the stacks of mats you laid on at nap time. He ushered me to the refrigerator where the little cans of juice were cooling, and gave me the inside scoop on orange-pineapple. He showed me the boxes of musical instruments and other containers filled with fascinating educational paraphernalia.

Then he walked me up to Miss Jolley’s desk and proudly presented me to her.

Hearing Miss Jolley’s high-pitched, joyful, and loving voice directed straight at me was one of the seminal moments of my life. It sank warmly into my heart and still resonates there more than a half-century later. It was the voice of loving kindness. Once John had delivered me into the sphere of Miss Jolley’s love, he was no longer needed. He disappeared out the door, and that was the moment my public education began.

That year in Miss Jolley’s class was nothing short of heaven. When it was over, I was fully committed to continuing my

education. It wasn’t hard at all to go back to school on the first day of first grade. But as that year progressed, I began to feel like I’d been cast out of the garden into the lone and dreary world. Mrs. Schmutz was a loving and devoted teacher, but all my classmates were beginning to read and I could make nothing of those strange symbols printed below delightful illustrations of Dick and Jane.

The two-and-a-half block walk to East Elementary on the first day of second grade was one of the longest of my life. I had dreaded for weeks going back, not because I didn’t have friends and not because I didn’t have a loving and devoted teacher but because I knew everyone else in my class could read, and I couldn’t. I had lost the will to continue my education.

There were high points that year. I made an excellent puppet out of sawdust and glue that sort of resembled a bear. In the afternoon, while all the others read, I watched the hands on the big, round, black and white clock above Mrs. Wilson’s desk until they finally, finally, finally made it to 3:30. At that magical moment, I shot out of the room and flew around the three street corners to the backyard of my house and took up my shovel and continued digging the most excellent underground hut ever made.

By the first day of third grade, I had given up hope of ever mastering the magic of reading. Mrs. Miles was a loving and devoted teacher, but no amount of human kindness could transform those strange symbols into letters and those letters into words.

Then one day, a woman appeared in the doorway of my thirdgrade classroom. Everyone looked up at her. She was plump and stern. She scanned the room until her eyes locked on mine. Through the sternness, I suddenly felt her love and devotion. She reached her ample arm toward me. As she beckoned me with her curled finger, the dangling flesh of her upper arm jiggled. I stood and began to work my way through the maze

About the Author

of desks toward her. I felt upon me the eyes of everyone in the room. They all knew who the woman at the door was. They all knew why she was there. And now, they also knew who she was there for.

Her name was Lois Wells. I didn’t know it then, but she was an angel sent to save me. She swung her arm like a wing around my shoulder and walked me down the long corridor to her office. It was a room full of books and full of love and devotion. There, tucked under her heavy wing, over the period of many days and weeks and months, she taught me to read.

Symbols became letters. Letters became words. Words became sentences. And sentences became stories. Actually, for your information, it was perhaps the greatest miracle of my life.

And just so you know, I never dreaded the first day of school again—until my junior year of high school. That day, I drove my ‘68 turquoise half-ton Ford pickup with shiny custom chrome rims into the high school parking lot, shut off the motor, and sat there with my forehead against the steering wheel in prayer. I earnestly prayed that an angel would appear in the doorway of my algebra I class—the class I was repeating once again for lack of even the remotest idea of how to balance an equation.

Lyman is the author of a dozen books intent on connecting landscape and story in the American Southwest. He was founding director of the Zion National Park Forever Project and president of the national Public Lands Alliance. He was founding editor of St. George Magazine in 1983, has been recognized with several literary awards from the Utah Arts Council, and won the Wrangler Award from the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. He currently hosts the podcast NOT FORGOTTEN: STORIES OF UTAH’S DIXIE, found on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. His books are available at LymanHafen.com. He lives in Santa Clara, Utah, with his wife Debbie. They have six children and eighteen grandchildren.

Embracing the Metal Season: Letting Go, Honoring What Matters

By Dr. Grace Wathen, DACM, L.Ac., MSTCM

As the golden hues of autumn arrive, we enter the Metal season, my favorite season and a sacred time in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that invites us to breathe deeply, slow down, and honor what is essential.

Metal governs the lungs and large intestine, organs that beautifully mirror the themes of this season: inspiration, release, refinement, and value. Just as the trees shed their leaves, we too are called to

let go of what no longer serves us, whether that’s physical clutter, emotional heaviness, or even outdated beliefs. There is a beauty in the release. In this space, we create room for clarity and for what truly matters.

In TCM, the lungs are known as the “tender organ” because of their close relationship with the exterior world. Through breath, we receive inspiration, spirit, and connection. When the lungs are in balance, we feel clear, open-hearted, and aligned with our higher values. When out of balance, we may feel grief, sadness, or even shallowness in our breath.

Likewise, the large intestine helps us let go—not just of physical waste, but of what we’ve emotionally outgrown. This is a powerful time to cleanse: gently, not aggressively. This isn’t a season of extremes but of elegant refinement. It’s not about doing more; it’s about doing what’s essential.

The Metal element also governs structure, order, and boundaries. You may notice yourself feeling called to clean your space, revisit your calendar, or reestablish boundaries that honor your health. That’s Metal at work, helping you cut through the noise and distill what is of true worth.

From a lifestyle and wellness perspective, now is the time to support your lungs with breathwork, qi gong, and gentle aerobic movement or walking in fresh air. Hydrate more, as Metal can dry the body’s tissues, and incorporate moistening foods like pears, daikon, walnuts, sesame seeds, and cooked white vegetables. Herbal support may also include formulas that nourish yin and moisten dryness.

Emotionally, grief is the emotion of Metal. It doesn’t mean something is wrong; it means you are human. Allow space for reflection, journaling, and even tears if they arise. This isn’t a sign of weakness. It is part of the natural rhythm of the season.

So I invite you to treat this time as a ritual. Take a walk under falling leaves, breathe deeply into your chest, and ask yourself gently: What am I ready to release? What values am I ready to live by more fully?

As the season shifts around you, let it also shift within you. This is your invitation to trust that inner refinement leads to outer alignment—gently, gradually, and with grace.

To book an appointment or consultation with Dr. Grace, visit her website at www.drgracewellness.com, call (385) 256-0022, or email drgracewathen@gmail.com.

About the Author

Dr. Grace Wathen holds a doctoral degree in acupuncture and Chinese Medicine and a Master’s of Science degree in Traditional Chinese medicine. She is a licensed acupuncturist and herbalist. Dr. Grace is the proud mother of two King Charles cavaliers, two mustangs, one quarter horse, and one kitty cat.

Utah Tech Graduate Blazes Trails Beyond Borders

By Lexi Hughs

Most college students spend their senior years preparing for finals and searching for post-graduation jobs. Avery Zentner, a recent graduate of Utah Tech University, spent her time helping build a medical clinic on the other side of the world.

Avery was inspired by the humanitarian work of her older brothers, who each traveled to Kenya with the Mountain Stars, a Utah-based basketball program that also raises funds and builds schools in underserved communities. Avery took their idea and shifted it toward her own interests: medicine and global health.

Partnering with Christian Rich, a Brigham Young University student planning to attend medical school, Avery organized what she called “phase two” of the Mountain Stars’ mission. Rather than building a school, the duo collaborated to construct a medical clinic with a maternity wing in Shaka Village, a remote Kenyan community located more than twenty kilometers from the nearest health facility. “To hear that women were giving birth on the side of a dirt road because they couldn’t make it to a clinic just didn’t sit right with me,” Avery said. “I knew I had to do something.”

Avery and Christian worked with Koins for Kenya, a nonprofit organization with deep roots in the region and over a decade of experience in developing schools and clinics. Starting the process in early September, Avery and Christian researched, gathered fellow students, and did the fundraising for the entire project.

With the help of local Kenyan community members and government partnerships, the clinic began to take shape. “The women were hauling water on their heads, carrying babies on their backs, and working every day,” Avery said. “Their excitement and commitment were honestly what kept us going.”

By May, Avery and a small group of college students traveled to Kenya for the clinic’s grand opening. They transported donated medical equipment, assisted with setup, and helped treat the first wave of patients. Welcoming them were grateful community members, local officials, and residents of nearby villages. This facility was celebrated by all.

Avery credits the success of the mission to the Mountain Stars for inspiring the vision, Koins for Kenya for their on-theground support, and her planning partner, Christian, for sharing the workload every step of the way.

“This project sparked a flame for all of the students who were there,” Avery said. “It definitely opened our eyes and showed us that we could do things to help people as long as we put our minds to it. I think it gave everyone the motivation to go again and explore ways to help the world.”

About the Author

Lexi Hughs is a full-time student at Utah Tech University. Having moved from Montana to St. George, she is here to pursue a bachelor’s degree in media studies and work towards a career in public relations. She loves spending time outside in the sun with her friends and family here in sunny Southern Utah.

Stay Sharp, Stay Smart

By Coleen M. Andruss, MD

Is it a struggle to stay focused amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life? Do you feel like you’re constantly spinning your wheels but never getting ahead? Have you noticed a decline in your mental energy and awareness?

Staying sharp means creating a wellness inventory that includes mental, emotional, and physical fitness.

Mental Fitness

Mental fitness involves brain exercises that help maintain and improve cognitive function. Stimulating the brain consistently through doing word puzzles, playing memory games, learning a new skill or language, reading, or playing an instrument strengthens cognitive resilience. The brain craves change and forward movement to help us thrive. Mental skills are strengthened through practice just as our physical bodies are strengthened by working out at the gym.

However, distractions can drain mental energy, impair cognitive control, and decrease efficiency. To prevent mental fatigue and burnout, we must take

deliberate action to protect our mental health. Mindful meditation helps calm the mind. Deep breathing and intentional pauses are powerful tools. Digital minimalism, such as limiting screen time and disabling unnecessary notifications, can restore mental clarity.

Contrary to popular belief, multitasking reduces efficiency and increases errors, thereby weakening mental fitness. Doing one task at a time is generally healthier and more productive. Mental fitness is essential in the reduction of mental health disorders and critical for combating agerelated cognitive decline.

Emotional Fitness

Emotional fitness is just as essential. It involves stress management and emotional regulation. Regulating emotions intentionally helps us navigate stress, build self-esteem and adapt to life’s challenges. Emotional resilience leads to healthier relationships, more productive work environments, and overall life satisfaction.

Brain-Boosting Nutrition

What we eat directly impacts brain function. There is no magic pill or single food that can prevent cognitive decline, but research points to several nutrients that support brain health.

Green leafy vegetables like kale, collards, spinach, and broccoli are rich in vitamin K, lutein, folate, and beta carotene—all shown to help slow cognitive decline. Healthy unsaturated fats may lower beta-amyloid levels, the protein that forms tangles in the brain tissue of Alzheimer’s patients.

Fatty fish low in mercury, such as salmon, cod, canned light tuna, fresh tuna, and pollock, are high in omega-3 fatty acids and should be eaten at least twice a week. For nonfish lovers, omega-3 supplements, flaxseed, avocados, and olive oil can be beneficial alternatives.

Natural sources of caffeine, such as yerba maté, can offer short-term focus and have been shown to support mental function and memory.

Berries, especially when consumed three or more times per week, may delay memory decline by up to two and a half years thanks to their flavonoids.

Nuts of all kinds are an excellent source of protein and healthy fats. Walnuts, in particular, improve memory and cognition due to their high alpha-linolenic acid content, which also promotes heart and brain blood flow.

Choline, a precursor to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine and critical for mental attention and memory, is found in eggs, poultry, fish, beans, broccoli, cauliflower, nuts, and whole grains. Studies suggest that higher choline levels earlier in life correlate with healthier brain blood vessels later on.

The Role of Supplements and Gut Health

Due to environmental and manufacturing changes in modern food, some essential nutrients may be lacking in our diets. This makes supplementation necessary for some individuals.

Fiber is essential for metabolic and gut health. Since the gut is often referred to as our “second brain,” fiber can help slow metabolic aging. Probiotics, found in foods like yogurt and sauerkraut, also support gut microbiome health. Research shows they may help protect against cognitive decline and agerelated neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease and stroke.

Physical Fitness and Technology

Physical fitness means getting up and moving! Movement increases blood flow to the brain and enhances focus and memory. Simply put, physical fitness boosts mental fitness.

The overuse or misuse of the many technologies available to use can contribute to cognitive decline. Inactivity, screen dependence, and passive consumption can dull creativity and mental sharpness. However, when used intentionally, modern tools can support brain development. Today, AI-driven cognitive training programs, apps, and virtual reality tools can help sharpen focus, improve resilience, and track mental fitness. Use AI mindfully to complement human capabilities rather than replace them.

Neurofeedback technologies provide realtime insights into brain activity, enabling personalized training that enhances cognitive growth. Mindfulness programs delivered through virtual reality apps or mobile apps can also promote calm and mental clarity.

Deep sleep is essential for memory consolidation, making consistent bedtime routines critical. And while physical movement is still vital, mental and emotional wellness should not be overlooked. They are equally important components of wholeperson health.

The Bottom Line: Be Intentional Nurture your mind. Remember, the journey to staying sharp doesn’t require perfection, but it does require intention, so take the following steps:

• Meditate.

• Move your body.

• Get outdoors.

• Walk in nature and appreciate its beauty.

• Eat brain-nourishing foods.

• Rest deeply.

• Limit digital distractions. Every effort counts. Live fully in the moment. Embrace mental and emotional fitness just as you do physical fitness. When you do, you become a role model for future generations.

In a world that’s increasingly distractive and demanding, staying sharp is not just helpful, it’s essential. So get busy. Stay sharp. Stay smart.

About the Author

Dr. Coleen Andruss practiced as an internist for ten years and has specialized in weight management for twenty-nine years. She and her staff have personally experienced weight management issues and have a compassionate understanding of patients in the Healthy Lifestyles program. Dr. Andruss’s internal medicine background helps her to see underlying medical problems when formulating individual plans that work.

MOUNTAIN MUSCLE

By Mark Wade Wade’s Walkabout

If Arnold Schwarzenegger were an animal, he’d be a mountain goat. Beneath their white coats, the skeletal structure of a mountain goat is encased in muscles that would seemingly make any bodybuilder proud. In 1967, mountain goats were first introduced in Utah’s Tushar Mountains, seeding a herd that has swelled to nearly 300 and contributing to the establishment of other herds throughout the state.

Quest for the White Phantoms

The tallest mountains in southwest Utah are the Tushars, and on a crystalline afternoon, we began an ascent up the southern slope of Mount Holly, hoping to catch a glimpse of at least one of the roaming herds of mountain goats. From past experience, we knew that these sure-footed animals cover a lot of ground and that our chances of discovering their current position might be limited.

With thinner levels of oxygen, hiking above 10,000 feet is an effort, and when you add backpacks filled with heavy camera gear, water, and food and throw in some steep terrain, you quickly start to call in to question the sanity of such an expedition. Despite burning lungs and hamstrings, we reached a wind-scoured saddle at 11,200 feet. With long lenses, we scanned a series of craggy mountain

faces where one might expect to catch a glimpse of distant herds. Nothing.

Shedding our packs, we hydrated and snacked while allowing the elevation breezes to wick away our sweat. “Come on, goats,” we quietly said—half prayer, half plea. “Show yourselves.” The summit of Mount Holly still ranged eight hundred feet above us, and, perhaps grudgingly, we determined we would forge upward. With no specified trail to follow, we inched higher over steep, rocky terrain where short grasses and alpine foliage fought to exist. At 12,000 feet, a mosaic of ridges, canyons, and valleys unfurled before us. We again scanned multiple

south-facing, craggy buttresses and, in frustrated Spanish, muttered, “Nada!”

A Glimpse of Majesty

Then in our peripheral view, two white specs appeared against the emerald expanse of a lower western ridge line. Pay dirt! Hearts pounding, we crouched low and scooted through a shallow gorge to avoid detection. To our right, a billy mountain goat appeared, and we froze, then crouched, hoping more goats would follow. Motionless, we fought to regulate our ragged breathing as nannies, kids, and more billies began to range across the perpendicular slope 200 yards away.

For the next hour, we reveled in the antics of the youngsters as they climbed rocks, butted heads, and pranced around their stoic parents, who seemed to tolerate the tomfoolery. Feeding on the high mountain grasses, sedges, and mosses, the adults carried patches of shedding winter fur clumped to their sides. Nonchalantly, the group of thirty animals wandered to an overlook where distant ranges assembled a scenic backdrop, stacked in gradient layers of fading blue. Alpine flowers dotted the high plateau, and two peregrine falcons floated overhead, constantly adjusting wings and tail feathers against the buffeting of strong updrafts.

Descent into Twilight

On its descent toward the western horizon, the sun dodged behind approaching storm clouds, and the temperatures began to drop—a clear signal it was time to depart. Reluctantly racing the fading light, we crunched and skittered down scree slopes and paced through highland forests, with vivid images of these white phantoms captured on camera and etched in our minds: muscular specimens, hardened by weather and vertical challenge—the sovereigns of Utah’s precipitous mountain peaks.

photography, and videography. He works as a tourism marketing consultant, for which he has won numerous awards. He is a weekly guest on the KSL Outdoors radio show. Mark is the former Director of Tourism for southwestern Utah and has served on the board of directors for various tourism associations.

About the Author Mark Wade is active

hiking, writing,

Anchored in Purpose How to Stop Comparing and Start Becoming

By Matt Eschler, PhD, LMFT

As far back as I can remember, people have compared themselves to others. The false god of comparison generates shameful feelings of unworthiness, stifles gratitude, and delays growth by causing us to fixate on envy. Is my home stylish or big enough? Do I need to drive a nicer car? How many followers do they have? Do I look as fit as they do? Are my children as accomplished as theirs? The chronic compulsion to compare has afflicted us since the beginning of time. You could say we are psychologically hardwired to compare. However, we risk falling into the trap of wasting valuable time and effort measuring our successes and failures against those of others.

Today, we are in the midst of a comparison epidemic. Gone are the days when we simply hoped to fit in, be accepted by a group of peers, or feel a sense of belonging in our neighborhood. Now, we stand on a global stage, bombarded with nonstop messages about what will finally make us “enough.” Social media platforms that run day and night amplify the whisper that we’re not good enough until we buy that, look like that, or live like that. This

epidemic of comparison-gone-viral has given rise to what I call Chronic Dissatisfaction Syndrome.

If you’re experiencing Chronic Dissatisfaction Syndrome, there is a solution. I’m going to give you an antidote that works. I guarantee that if you do the work I’m offering, the feeling that something is missing—the persistent yearning for more—will be replaced with certainty, clarity, and the deep understanding that you are an authentic, whole person.

Step One: Develop your own personal governing purpose.

Who are you? What character traits, values, and talents do you have or aspire to build? This is not a goal to be achieved. Rather, it is a set of ideals you own deep down in your soul. This is who you are, all by yourself. No other person can give this to you. Conversely, no one can ever take your governing purpose away without your consent. Don’t move forward until you have defined this core sense of yourself.

Step Two: Use your psychologically hardwired ability to compare in the right way.

From now on, you’ll measure progress only by comparing your current self to your past self. No longer are you allowed to compare yourself to another person or external standard. You are your own person. You have your own governing purpose. You are developing only yourself over time.

Keep your purpose in front of you to remind you of who you are. Take time to reflect, assess your growth, and acknowledge where you are now. Celebrate that. Then focus on intentionally leveling up by using your purpose to govern all future choices.

Step Three: Use an anchor.

This anchor is meant to be your High Power, your True North. Today’s comparison epidemic has led to a troubling shift from service to self-care and from self-care to selfishness. Timeless

values that once connected us with each other are being replaced by fear, and we are becoming easily offended by each other. However, trying to act as your own higher power doesn’t work.

For step three, I ask that you take time to assess your relationship with your Heavenly Parents. When you understand your governing purpose and God’s divine purpose for you, it’s like sighting in on your personal target with perfect alignment. God sees your worth, loves you, and paid the ultimate price for you so that you can create your future without your insecurities getting in the way.

Stop Competing. Stop Comparing. Start Creating.

The only person you should compare yourself to is the person you were yesterday. Your personal relationship with God and your clearly defined governing purpose will crush Chronic Dissatisfaction Syndrome.

Matt lives in St. George, Utah, where he and his wife, Chris, are enjoying their life with each other. Since their children have grown up and moved out to pursue their dreams, Matt and Chris travel the world. They want to visit 200 countries before they are done. Matt and Chris are active in their community and enjoy working out, training for marathons, and spending time participating in numerous activities with their adult children. Matt received a PhD in psychology. He is focused on the arena of resolving personal conflicts and improving interpersonal relationships. In addition to his doctorate degree, Matt has earned a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy, studied criminal justice and received a category one license with Peace Officer Standards and Training, and received a degree in the Arts of Business Management. Matt is a professor at Dixie State University and hopes to be part of the positive growth of southern Utah.

About the Author

Energy Work Explained

By Brigit Atkin

I am frequently asked to describe what I do. Is it talk therapy? Is it weird? Do you promise to fix my body? Are you interfering with my life? The answer to all of these questions is no.

What I do is energy work. So before I describe what that entails, let me first define energy.

Energy is literally defined by scientists as the ability to do work. Everything and everyone around us has the ability to do work—

to move. The wind is energy, and while we can’t see it, we can see its effects.

In a more spiritual sense, energy refers to the subtle, vital force or essence that permeates all things. In living beings, it is often associated with consciousness, emotion, and spiritual well-being. For example, have you ever noticed how some people can light up a room with just their presence? That is their energy—their essence, personality, or spirit—that you feel.

Energy work is simply using intention to help something—a stuck emotion, a wrong thought, a limiting belief—move out of the way. By removing an unhelpful, limiting belief or stuck emotion, you are able to move through life just a little more easily. You’re much more able to make wise decisions.

You work with energy every day, in literally everything. Every time you change a thought, you are changing and moving energy. Anytime you tell your body to relax, you are moving energy. You do it all the time and probably don’t even notice.

A computer presents a great analogy for energy work. You know how your computer can get stuck or move slowly? It’s so frustrating. What do you usually do to fix it? You might restart it, hit it a few times, and restart it again. But what if it continues to have problems? What then? You call your local computer experts. They look at it, and because they know the language of the computer, they find all kinds of things that are slowing it down: outdated software, hard drive issues, spam, spyware, viruses, an overload of information. They find it, clean it up, and voilà, your computer is as good as new.

In a sense, we are like a biocomputer. We can have outdated programs running through our minds, bodies, and subconscious. We can also have dormant emotional and mental viruses in our systems that impede our progress. And we can certainly have an overload of unnecessary information slowing us down. With the intention of removing these annoyances, we can rid ourselves of the things that encumber our movement.

My husband actually came up with his own perfect analogy for energy work after a recent camping trip. He took the camp trailer to clean out the holding tank. He secured the hose and turned the valve, but nothing happened. After fiddling with it for a while, he had a lightbulb moment. He reached into the end of the hose and found the plastic plug he had forgotten about. He pulled out the plug, reattached the hose, reopened the valves, and the water came out in a rush.

He said the plug had served its purpose during the camping trip while the hose was stored, but it made draining the tank impossible. Again, this is a lot like us! Sometimes we have a “plug” inside us, keeping energy contained. It might serve us for a while, but at some point, that plug needs to be removed so we can let go of energy that is no longer helping, such as old resentments, grudges, and grief. When we are able to get rid of that plug, the old sludge can leave, and we can feel emotionally light again. It really can be that easy.

To sum it up, your brilliance already exists. Energy work is just a tool to help you bring it out into the light, where you—and everyone else—can benefit from it. It’s a way to help you glide through life instead of trudging through it.

Practice doing your own energy work: consciously change a thought, a habit, or negative self-talk. Exercise your ability to

feel and express gratitude. Get out in the sun in the morning. Stand in the dirt and ground. Get comfortable and breathe deeply while intentionally letting go of the day’s irritations. Start talking to yourself like you would talk to a best friend. Buy yourself flowers, and notice how it instantly lifts you.

You’ll be amazed at how these little things have a big impact. You were put here to thrive and succeed. By intentionally moving heavy and unwanted energy, over time, you can literally change your life.

About the Author Brigit Atkin–Brigit of Brightworks helps improve the lives of others facing challenges and difficulties. She is certified in the SimplyALIGN™ method and was trained by founder Carolyn Cooper herself. For more information, visit www. brightworksbybrigit.com.

In every culture and in every medical tradition before ours, healing was accomplished by moving energy.

—Albert Szent-Gyorgyi

What’s Really Holding You Back?

By Erin Del Toro, RCH

Every day, often without realizing it, we live by an invisible set of rules. These rules—our belief systems—shape how we see ourselves, other people, and the possibilities in life. They determine what we think we deserve, how much love we’re willing to accept, the level of success we believe we can achieve, and even whether we think happiness is truly available to us.

Most of us believe we make decisions rationally, freely choosing what we want. But much of what guides our lives lies beneath conscious awareness, deeply embedded in the subconscious mind. When left unexamined, these old belief systems quietly hold us back, keeping us stuck in repetitive patterns. Fortunately, hypnotherapy offers a way to rewrite these hidden scripts and open the door to lasting freedom.

Belief systems are mental frameworks we develop over time. Some are passed down through family, culture, or religion; others are shaped by early personal experiences. A child who hears “Money is hard to come by” may grow up to subconsciously sabotage opportunities for financial success. Someone who is repeatedly criticized in childhood may carry a belief of being “not enough,” a pattern that can echo through relationships and careers for decades.

These beliefs rarely get challenged because they —feel like truth, not opinion. run on autopilot, influencing our reactions before we have time to think. create self-fulfilling cycles, attracting experiences that confirm them.

For example, someone who believes “I can’t trust anyone” may keep others at arm’s length, ensuring they remain alone. Or a person who thinks “Success isn’t for people like me” might procrastinate or avoid opportunities, reinforcing failure. In essence, our subconscious beliefs set the ceiling for what feels possible, regardless of what’s actually true.

The subconscious is meant to protect us, learning from experience to keep us safe. Unfortunately, it doesn’t distinguish between real danger and misunderstandings formed in childhood. It encodes intense emotions as “rules for survival,” which then guide adult behavior. For instance, a child whose love was withdrawn may grow up clinging to relationships or avoiding intimacy altogether. A teenager humiliated for speaking up might struggle to share ideas at work decades later.

Over time, these rules affect not only our thoughts but also our emotions, habits, and even body chemistry—fueling stress, anxiety, and cycles we can’t seem to break. Logic and willpower rarely reach deep enough to change these patterns. Affirmations like “I am confident and successful” often fall flat because they speak only to the conscious mind.

Think of your mind as a computer: the conscious mind types new commands, but as the subconscious runs old code, patterns repeat automatically. Unless you update the deeper programming, you’ll keep getting the same results no matter how hard you try to think differently.

When the subconscious mind is entangled in an old belief system or emotion, hypnotherapy is one of the most effective ways to change the brain’s neural pathways and rewrite the script. It allows the mind to access a relaxed, focused brain state (theta waves), where the subconscious is more open to change.

Hypnosis is not mind control—far from it. In this powerfully focused yet relaxed state, you can understand yourself more clearly

and reconnect with the power you have over your own mind and belief systems.

During hypnotherapy, you can more easily: identify hidden beliefs: Discover where outdated “rules” began and why they’ve stuck.

release emotional blocks: Heal the triggers and emotions tied to old experiences.

create new associations: Form and strengthen beliefs and neural pathways aligned with confidence, trust, love, and success.

reinforce positive habits: Through repetition in hypnosis, new beliefs become natural and automatic.

When subconscious rules are rewritten, life often shifts quickly—not because the world changes, but because your subconscious mind does—and so does the rest of you. Healthy connections form more naturally when you believe you deserve respect and love. Fear of failure fades, making space for courage, creativity, and leadership. Anxiety, shame, and guilt lose their grip as old beliefs dissolve. You stop living under someone else’s narrative and begin acting from true self-worth.

These are not surface-level mindset hacks—they’re root-level transformations that keep you in the driver’s seat and free you from chains you may not have even known were there.

Belief systems are powerful filters, shaping every experience and decision. Most were installed long before you had the chance to question them. But what was learned can be unlearned, and what was programmed can be rewritten.

Hypnotherapy provides a safe, effective way to access the subconscious, update outdated beliefs, and create new ones that truly support you. When your inner programming finally aligns with your conscious goals, you stop battling yourself and instead, gain yourself as an ally.

If you’d like to learn more, please visit my website at lumatheta.com, or call or text me at 435-429-2560.

About the Author

Erin Del Toro is an ACHE Registered Clinical Hypnotherapist, the owner of Luma Theta Hypnotherapy, and the Mindset Director at Movara Fitness Resort. She’s passionate about changing the effects of trauma, rewriting unwanted habits and behaviors, and helping others unlock the power of their true potential. Erin lives in St. George and enjoys mountain biking, hiking, playing in the outdoors of beautiful Southern Utah, and spending time with her twin daughters.

...But much of what guides our lives lies beneath conscious awareness, deeply embedded in the subconscious mind. “

Let’s Talk About Constipation (Yes, Really)

By Koby Taylor, PharmD

In my pharmacy, I frequently sit down with patients for all kinds of consultations—whether it’s evaluating medications, recommending compounded medication alternatives, suggesting supplements, or helping someone navigate amino acid therapy. Lately, there’s one topic that keeps coming up, and I realized it needed more attention than I was giving it: bowel movements.

Not the most glamorous topic, I know—but so very important.

In fact, I recently changed a question on my intake form. It used to ask: Are you experiencing constipation or diarrhea? Now it asks: What is the frequency and consistency of your bowel movements? Why the change? Because I was shocked by how many people think going to the bathroom just three times a week (or less!) is “normal.”

To say your gut is meant to eliminate waste daily is an understatement. Ideally, you should be having a full, healthy bowel movement once or even twice a day. Anything less and your body may be holding onto toxins, hormones, and metabolic waste far longer than it should.

Frequency Matters

The digestive system is essentially the body’s engine of detox. Every time you eat, your gut is not only absorbing nutrients, it is also working to eliminate the things your body no longer needs. When bowel movements are infrequent, waste hangs around

too long in the colon, and nutrient absorption is weakened. This can lead to bloating, skin issues, fatigue, headaches, and even more serious health concerns over time.

Consistency Matters, Too

Frequency is only half the story. Consistency gives us insight into what’s happening inside. Ideally, stools should be soft, formed, and easy to pass. For reference, I recommend looking at the Bristol Stool Chart. It’s a terrific visual aid for understanding what “normal” stool should look like. If you’re dealing with hard, pellet-like stools or straining to go, it’s a sign your gut needs support.

What Causes Constipation?

There are a number of reasons someone might be dealing with sluggish digestion:

• Diet: Low fiber intake, high processed food consumption, not drinking enough water—these all slow the digestive tract.

• Food Sensitivities and Allergies: Gluten, dairy, and other common allergens can inflame the gut and affect motility. Even environmental allergies can cause gut inflammation.

• Medications and Supplements: Painkillers, certain antidepressants, antacids, and some supplements, such as iron, are common culprits that can back things up.

• Stress and Hormones: Your gut and brain are closely connected. High stress or imbalanced hormones (like thyroid or sex hormone issues) can slow things down.

• Lack of movement: A sedentary lifestyle reduces blood flow to the gut, which can make digestion sluggish.

The Fiber and Magnesium Fix

Fiber is crucial for regularity, but most people don’t get nearly enough. There are two types:

• Soluble fiber (found in oats, chia seeds, and beans) helps absorb water and forms a gel-like substance that keeps things moving smoothly.

• Insoluble fiber (found in vegetables, whole grains, and fruits, especially the peels) acts like a broom for your intestines, helping move things along.

If you’re adding fiber to your diet, don’t forget the water. Fiber without enough hydration can actually make constipation worse.

And here’s a lesser-known hero: magnesium. Many people are low in magnesium without realizing it. This essential mineral helps relax the muscles in your digestive tract and supports healthy peristalsis (the wave-like movement that moves stool through your colon). Magnesium citrate or glycinate can be especially helpful for gentle, natural relief.

Fiber and magnesium together are a powerful one-two punch for getting things back on track.

My Final Thoughts

If you’re not going every day or if going is uncomfortable, painful, or feels as though you’re just not getting enough elimination, it’s time to do something about it. Talk to your provider, or get a consultation from your pharmacist. Don’t be embarrassed. Constipation is extremely common, but it’s not something we should accept as “just how my body works.”

In my consultations, bowel habits are now one of the first things we discuss because how you eliminate says so much about how you’re functioning on the inside.

So let’s normalize talking about it. Let’s ask better questions. And let’s get things moving—literally.

About the Author

Koby Taylor, PharmD, is the owner and pharmacist of Fusion Pharmacy. Working as a retail pharmacist early in his career, Koby began to see that pharmacy patients needed to have access to available alternative medications. He realized that pharmacy in its truest form is compounding, and he wanted to be able to provide patients with customized medications. He also desired more personalized interactions with patients in order to truly help their health and well-being. To fulfill his passion for improving the health of patients and educating them about compounding, Koby opened the doors of Fusion Pharmacy in 2013. Today, Fusion is nationally accredited with PCAB. It is licensed in and ships to 32 states. Fusion is proud to have two locations to better serve the southern Utah community. Koby graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in molecular biology in 1995 and from the University of Utah with his Doctorate of Pharmacy in 2000.

Understanding Your Heart Rate Variability

By Chris Eschler, Health and Well-Being Life Coach

Are you curious about heart rate variability (HRV)? I was, too! About nine months ago, I began wearing a fitness tracker. Every morning, I wake up to a personalized report that breaks down my sleep and overnight health, right on my watch! I can know by the touch of a button whether my HRV is balanced or unbalanced. Having no medical background, I didn’t give the HRV report much thought until curiosity finally got to me, and I decided to get clarity on the subject by doing some quick research. The information I found is worth sharing.

What is HRV?

HRV is the calculation of the time between each heartbeat. This is different from heart rate. Heart rate measures how many times your heart beats per minute (BPM), whereas HRV measures the variation of time between those heart beats in milliseconds.

Why might this be a valuable insight?

The variation between each heartbeat can provide information into your body’s stress response, recovery, and overall health.

Let’s Dive Deeper

The time between heartbeats is controlled by the autonomic nervous system (ANS), which has two main branches: the sympathetic (fight or flight) and the parasympathetic (rest and digest) systems. A high HRV or balanced HRV means your body is healthily switching between the two, meaning you are handling stress well, keeping calm, and self-regulating. A constant low or unbalanced HRV may mean your nervous system is in survival mode—poor recovery, and chronic stress—which may lead to various health issues.

Although there are charts displaying where your number falls (whether on the higher or the lower range), don’t stress about

the number displayed, as every individual is unique. Focus on whether your HRV is balanced or unbalanced.

Your fitness tracker will get to know you individually. When you first begin to wear your fitness tracker (health watch, ring, or band), it measures for a week or two, determining your personal baseline. From there, it calculates whether you are recovering well from daily stressors. These stressors may be emotional, psychological, or physical. Overworking, poor sleep quality, or even illnesses, such as the flu, can create an imbalance. While athletes tend to have a higher HRV overall, overtraining will cause this number to drop, an indication to slow down.

Improve your HRV

• Maximize sleep quality. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Try to keep a consistent bedtime, even on weekends. Create a calm, sleep-friendly environment. Turn off electronics at least an hour before bed to avoid the blue light that is so disrupting to natural sleep rhythms.

• Practice daily breathwork. Deep breathing from your diaphragm is important. Practice deep breathing through your nose, which activates the vagus cranial nerve that stimulates your parasympathetic system, helping you stay calmer and slowing your heart rate. This will improve your HRV. It also filters out pathogens to keep you healthy.

• Get sunlight daily. Aim for at least ten to fifteen minutes of natural sunlight each day to support your circadian rhythm, which indirectly improves HRV by promoting better sleep quality.

• Exercise daily. Regular exercise helps improve your heart and nervous system, which boosts HRV. Be aware of pushing yourself too hard without enough rest. Overtraining increases stress hormones and throws off your body’s balance, leading to lower HRV. Finding the right balance between training and recovery is key for progress and overall health.

• Hydrate and nourish the body. Focus on whole foods and healthy fats, and try to limit your sugar intake. Stay wellhydrated, as dehydration and unstable blood sugar can lower your HRV. Also, avoid stimulants like caffeine and alcohol, since both can negatively impact your HRV.

• Create emotional wellness. Invite goodness into your life. Welcome positivity. Practice meditation, prayer, gratitude, repentance, and forgiveness. Release negativity and focus on building healthy, supportive relationships.

Final thoughts

HRV is a window into the health of your nervous system. Improving your HRV helps you stay balanced, resilient, and able to face challenges. Don’t obsess over numbers. Simply focus on creating a daily routine that supports your nervous system’s overall well-being.

About the Author

Chris Eschler earned a BS in Marriage and Family Sciences at Brigham Young University-Idaho. As a life coach at Ascend Counseling and Wellness. Chris works with individuals to develop their skills and provides a safe, accepting environment for exploring a wide range of thoughts and feelings. Chris knows that you are the expert of your life and that she is simply a guide. She currently sees couples with her husband, licensed therapist Matt Eschler. Together they assist couples with all couples issues, specializing in high conflict couples work. To schedule an appointment with Chris for life coaching, call Ascend Counseling and Wellness at 435-688-1111 or visit https://ascendcw.com/.

Ashley Staten From Undergraduate Researcher at Utah Tech University to Chemist I at GlycoSurf

By Jake Harber

Ashley Staten, a 2024 graduate of Utah Tech University with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, has been making a big splash in the chemistry world since completing her degree.

Initially drawn to Utah Tech for its affordable education and hands-on experience, Ashley found herself immersed in lab work that sparked a deeper love for chemistry. She described the practical lab and instrumentation experience she received as “amazing.”

“At Utah Tech, I learned instrumentation and lab practices that weren’t just classroombased,” Ashley said. “I think my research at Utah Tech is what made me realize that I actually did want to spend my time in a lab and use the degree I was getting.”

Working under professors Dr. Rico Del Sesto and Dr. Jen Meyer, Ashley was trained to use high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), becoming one of only three people on campus qualified to do so. This handson experience at Utah Tech confirmed for Ashley that chemistry was, in fact, the industry she wanted to pursue.

Toward the end of her undergraduate studies, Ashley was selected for a summer internship at GlycoSurf, a startup chemical company focused on creating green glycolipid surfactants. GlycoSurf takes an eco-friendly approach, producing biodegradable, non-toxic rhamnolipids and glycolipids as alternatives to conventional surfactants. Following her internship, GlycoSurf hired Ashley to work as a fulltime chemical technician and later, promoted her to Chemist I.

“I’ve been trained in about three-quarters of the reactions we do,” Ashley said. “We’re expanding into an additional lab space to house equipment and conduct reactions for a second molecule, and I did about 99 percent of the labor for this second molecule.”

At this expanded lab, Ashley will essentially serve as project manager, continuing work on the second molecule for at least the rest of the year. Her role includes overseeing much of the synthesis—creating the molecules, then purifying them for use.

Thanks in large part to Utah Tech University’s “active learning. active life.” approach to education, Ashley and many other graduates are entering the workforce with an abundance of handson experiences, well equipped to make a meaningful impact in their fields.

Learn more at utahtech.edu.

About the Author

Jake Harber is a recent graduate of Utah Tech University. A small-town Wyoming native, he moved to St. George and graduated from Utah Tech with a bachelor’s degree in communication studies. He enjoys the Southern Utah climate and all the outdoor adventures this area has to offer.

Angelica’s Mexican Grill 101 E. St. George Blvd., St. George, UT 84770 | 435-628-4399 Mexican | Vegetarian and Vegan Options | Family Friendly | $ Mon.–Sat., 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.; Closed Sun.

Located Downtown on St. George Boulevard, Angelica’s Mexican Grill serves fresh, made from scratch authentic Mexican food. The flavor driven and nationally recognized menu provides everything and more that you would expect from a Mexican restaurant, including street tacos, Mulitas, Tortas, Sweet Carnitas, Machaca, and their famous salsa bar. Vegan and Vegetarian dishes are always available. Seating is available inside and also outside on the spacious patio. Catering & To-Go ordering available.

Experience Independence and Peace of Mind with Rescue Alert of Dixie

George Burns once said, “Everything that goes up must come down. But there comes a time when not everything that’s down can come up.”

And that’s where Rescue Alert of Dixie comes in! We provide an affordable, reliable medical alarm system. If you should go down and not be able to get back up, Rescue Alert will be there to assist you.

Rescue Alert of Dixie has units that work in and around the home and mobile units that work all around the country. Fall detection can be provided in both types of units.

Important things to consider:

Immediate Assistance

With the push of a button and within a few seconds, our customers can speak with a friendly certified emergency medical dispatcher in one of our response centers. This is vital in situations like falls, medical emergencies, or home security situations where every second counts.

Peace of Mind

Our service provides peace of mind not only for the user but for all those who care

about them. Knowing that help is readily available provides a sense of security and reduces anxiety about those “what if” situations in life.

Maintaining Independence

Our service enables individuals to live independently for longer by providing a reliable way to call for help when needed without relying solely on others.

Around-the-Clock Monitoring

We have 24/7 monitoring services, ensuring that help is available at any time of the day or night. Someone will respond to any emergency!

Reduced Risk of Complications

Timely access to help can minimize the severity of injuries or illnesses, potentially leading to better outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.

Accessibility for Various Needs

Our services were initially designed for seniors; however, they are now used by a wider range of individuals, including those with disabilities, solo workers, and people in hazardous environments.

Additional Features

We also offer services like fall detection, medication reminders, and GPS tracking, further enhancing safety and independence.

Wisdom dictates that you get the service before you actually need it.

Unfortunately, the first fall is often devastating, and the possibility of injuring yourself, then waiting several hours to be discovered, takes a tremendous physical and emotional toll.

With a response center located right here in St. George, Utah, you will get the best, most affordable, most reliable medical alarm service available, with no long-term contracts like a number of competitors require.

Experience independence and peace of mind for you and your family with Rescue Alert of Dixie. Call 435-986-1735 or visit www.rescuealertdixie.com

LOOK A ROUND DISCOVER THE CLARITY

Jason W. Hendrix MD

Cataract Surgeon & Comprehensive

Opthalmology

D. Snow Slade MD

Fellowship Trained Cataract & Glaucoma Surgeon

Nicholas Behunin MD

Fellowship Trained Cataract & Cornea Surgeon

Marcos Reyes MD

Nathan Anderson MD

OphthalmologistCararact, Refractive and Glaucoma Surgeon

Fellowship Trained Cataract & Oculoplastic Surgeon

Joshua Terr y OD

Optometrist

Brett Richardson OD

Optometrist

Sherine Smith PA -C

Ophthalmic Physicians Assistant