Issuu

Holiday Issue

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

November 1 - December 31, 2026 Volume 19 – Issue 6 PUBLISHER & EDITOR Kathy Lee MANAGING EDITOR / CREATIVE DIRECTOR Erin Eames COPY EDITOR Elisa Eames WRITERS Kaylee Pickering, Matthew Brockway, Barbara Bruno, Ashley Centers, Randi Fuller, Rob Krieger, Anita DeLelles, Judi Moreo, Ron Bird, Andrew Bird, Jean Watkins, Jaime Stout, Gerri Chasco, Steve Dudrow, Michelle Timmons, Terri Fitzsimmons, Bert Metcalf, Toni Wehus, David Cordero, Brian Tenney, Trisha Dunn, Liv Scalley, Amy Bradshaw, Mary Mathis, Todd Prince, Gary Trask, Mariclare Hulbert ADVERTISING SALES Kathy Lee ADVERTISING EMAIL ads@ViewOnMagazine.com SUPPORT STAFF Bert Kubica Cheryl Whitehead DISTRIBUTION ViewOn Magazine Staff PUBLISHED BY ViewOn Magazine, Inc. Office (702) 346-8439 Fax (702) 346-4955 GENERAL INQUIRIES ads@ViewOnMagazine.com info@ViewOnMagazine.com ONLINE www.ViewOnMagazine.com Facebook: ViewOn Magazine Instagram: @ViewOnMagazine

2007-2026 ViewOn Magazine, Inc. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or part without the express written permission from the publisher, including all ads designed by the ViewOn Magazine staff. All articles submitted by contributing writers are deemed correct at the time of publishing. ViewOn Magazine, Inc. and/or any of its affiliates accept no responsibility for articles submitted with incorrect information.

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Letter from the Editor

To Our Dear Readers,

Happy Holidays! This season, ViewOn celebrates 20 years of proudly serving southern Utah, Nevada, and Arizona! We are so grateful for our wonderful readers and our fantastic advertisers! We couldn’t continue to bring our magazine to all of you without your ongoing support. This festive issue has everything you need to make it through the holidays. Where can you find one-of-a-kind gifts and easily donate to those in need? Check. Where can you see magical light displays and cheery entertainment? Check. How do you decorate for Christmas in the desert? Check. The season begins with the annual 1,000 Flags Over Mesquite event, also marking its 20th year. This dignified observance recognizes the sacrifices made by those who have served our country and protected our freedoms. When it's time to buy gifts, instead of scrolling through Amazon or rummaging through picked-over selections at big-box stores, find thoughtful gifts for everyone on your list and support local makers at the Mesquite Fine Arts Christmas boutique and the Washington County Artisan Market. Stop by Danielle’s Chocolates and Popcorn in Mesquite, a local favorite! They offer gift bags, baskets, and tins for gifting—or for yourself! Gourmet taffy also makes a great gift, and Santa Clara’s Taffy Shop offers 75 delicious and fluffy flavors. The shop even offers classes. During this season of giving, donate anything from clothes to a live animal to someone local or across the globe through the Light the World vending machines at the Red Cliffs Mall. The holidays would be incomplete without lights, so don’t miss out on the brilliant light displays and events in Cedar City, Parowan, Brian Head, Mesquite, and St. George. For something a little different, enjoy the unexpected at the Twinkling Tinsel Talent Show at the Center for the Arts at Kayenta. And as always, Tuacahn presents its annual Live Nativity, Christmas musical, and Christmas in the Canyon event. Did you grow up with evergreens and snow? Think a desert Christmas isn’t up to par? Think again. Our Design article helps us embrace the holidays in the desert rather than just dreaming of a white Christmas. Finally, follow the suggestions in our Holiday Safety Tips article to foil thieves who take advantage of the season's rush. To thank our advertisers for their loyalty, please support them and send them some Christmas cheer. They have supported us again and again through the decades. Wishing you an extraordinary season,

Kathy Lee Editor in Chief Editor's Correction: We inadvertently credited an incorrect writer and photographer in the Gold Butte article in our September-October issue. The correct credit belongs to Frank Golden who wrote the article and took many of the photos. We apologize for the error. VIEWO N M AGAZ INE | Novem ber - D ec emb e r 2026 | 3

Frequent contributors Anita DeLelles, LMT, is a certified Equine and Small Animal Acupressure Practitioner with accreditation from Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute. Her studies included two consecutive summers in Bath, England, as well as coursework in Colorado and California and a BFA from UNLV. Anita is certified in small animal massage from the Northwest School of Animal Massage as well as in human massage. In 2014, Anita and husband Ron opened WOOF! Wellness Center and launched their website www.ShopMeoow.com.

Rob Krieger is a 20-plus-year member of the PGA of America and is originally from Cleveland, Ohio. He came to the area as the Director of Golf at Conestoga and now owns his own golf instruction business in St. George called Red Rock Golf Instruction, which is based at Southgate Golf Course Driving Range. He has been writing for ViewOn Magazine since 2010. He is also a Utah PGA Player Development Award Winner. For help with your game, please visit www.stgeorgegolflessons.com or email him at rob@sgugolf.com.

David Cordero is the Communications and Marketing Director for the City of St. George. A southern Utah resident since 2006, David has extensive experience in writing, public relations, marketing, and public speaking. He has also served in a variety of volunteer capacities over the years, including Utah Honor Flight, American Legion Post 90, religious education, and as a coach for his son's athletic teams. Email him at david.cordero@sgcity.org.

Ron Bird is a registered Investment Advisor Representative and has been serving Mesquite and the surrounding areas since 2007. Originally from Wisconsin, Ron grew up in Mesquite and served four years in the U.S. Marine Corps and earned his BA in Business Administration. After returning home, he joined his father at Financial Concepts, where he values building lasting relationships through a holistic approach to financial planning.

Nathan Hughes is a proud native of Mesquite, Nevada. With a deep-rooted passion for community service, he has dedicated his efforts to making a positive impact, particularly among the youth and teaching financial literacy. He is looking forward to working with members of the community. Nathan is president and advisor of Hughes Strategic Group, LLC DBA Pilot Wealth Strategies. Contact Nathan at (208) 490-5400.

Ashley Centers is the former general manager of Anytime Fitness Mesquite, and her passion for fitness runs deep. She fell in love with competitive powerlifting as a preteen. She set many state records and national qualifying totals during her lifting career prior to her competitive retirement while attending college. Ashley is now an ISSA Elite Level Trainer, Certified Fitness Nutritionist, and Corrective Exercise Specialist and trains for Strongwoman competitions. She is an inactive board member for the Mesquite Senior Games and is excited to remain a contributor for ViewOn Magazine and to write about her passion for health and fitness!

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Judi Moreo is one of the most recognized personal growth trainers and coaches in the world. She is the author of 11 books, including two international bestsellers, You Are More Than Enough and Conquer the Brain Drain. A self-made success, Judi started her first business with $2,000 and a lot of chutzpah. Judi learned to succeed step-by-step over many years and now has a worldwide following of clients who are enjoying outstanding success as a result of her guidance. You can reach Judi at judimoreo@yahoo.com or by calling (702) 609-2075.

Cliff and Ilene Bandringa are authors and the creators of BackRoadsWest.com. They have been traveling and photographing the world for more than 20 years, with a motto of finding the lesserknown, off-the-beaten-path places and then sharing their experiences with others. They do this via their blog, the virtual tour guides they've written, lots of YouTube videos, magazine articles, and a sister website of highquality and stock images. You can find all of these at www.BackRoadsWest.com.

Karen L. Monsen is a freelance writer who lives in St. George, Utah. She covers outdoor topics, nature, science, research, and human impacts. She taught French and social studies in public schools, served as a technical training coordinator, and designed and delivered business and technical writing seminars for corporate clients.

Donna Eads and her husband moved to Mesquite in 2010 from Palm Desert, California, and she loves the small-town atmosphere. Her writing experience extends from high school and college newspapers to professional manuals as a critical care nurse. Her passion for tennis is evident in her frequent articles for ViewOn Magazine.

Randi Fuller is a psychology-based design strategist and founder of The Science of Sanctuaries, an approach developed through her work as owner of Mesquite Tile & Flooring. She combines sciencebacked design principles with artistry and real-world expertise to help homeowners and businesses create spaces that foster well-being, functionality, and beauty. Randi advocates for environments that prioritize safety, aesthetics, and emotional well-being, making thoughtful, evidence-based design accessible to both small businesses and homeowners. Call (702) 346-7225 to speak with Randi, or visit the showroom at 521 W. Mesquite Blvd. in Mesquite, Nevada. You can also visit their website at www.MesquiteTile.com.

Kaylee Pickering is the communications specialist for the Iron County tourism office, Visit Cedar City · Brian Head. Born and raised in Cedar City, she loves sharing the incredible recreation and arts opportunities around her with potential visitors @visitcedarcity. A mother of two young boys, she and her husband spend weekends showing them new trails, finding dirt to play in, and exploring southern Utah.

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Message from the Mayor W

inter is a great time to visit Zion National Park and the charming town of Springdale, Utah, located at the park’s south entrance. The park shuttle runs through November 28, 2026, and again from December 26, 2026, through January 2, 2027. As always, your best Zion National Park experience is to stay in one of Springdale's many hotels, inns, bed and breakfasts, or nightly rental properties. Park for free upon arrival, and ride the shuttles throughout town and into Zion National Park. Springdale is also a pedestrian and bike-friendly town. The George Barker River Park was recently expanded and offers access to the Virgin River, an off-leash dog park, hiking trails, picnic tables, and restrooms. Our town park on Lion Boulevard offers a playground, four pickleball courts with benches and shade, a disc golf course, a sand volleyball court, picnic tables, and restrooms. Our outdoor outfitters are available to take you into Zion and also offer other activities. Most provide e-bike rentals (a great way to see the scenic canyon in the park) and equipment for hiking The Narrows. We pride ourselves on offering locally owned restaurants so you can "break the chain." Many of those restaurants offer box meals to take into Zion or eat in your room.

Springdale is also an IDA Dark Sky Community, so stargazing is a favorite of many of our visitors. Winter events include the Butch Cassidy 10K/5K run on November 14, a light parade and sweets social on December 12, Wreaths Across America on December 20, and a community New Year's Eve celebration on December 31. The New Year's Eve event includes line dancing, a free catered dinner, and live entertainment. A rotating art exhibit at the Springdale Canyon Community Center changes approximately every six weeks. The center also offers art classes, fitness classes, community talks, and various events throughout the year. The Zion Canyon Visitors Bureau website (www.zionpark.com) is a great resource to enter the lottery for Angels Landing permits, book local accommodations, find hikes and curated adventures, and see the current Zion shuttle schedule.

Barbara Bruno, Mayor of Springdale, Utah

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table of Contents Featured Articles

67 54

15 54

AREA HOLIDAY EVENTS GUIDE

TAFFY SHOP

Come Make Taffy with Us This Holiday Season

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88 67 88

THE VILLAGE AT ADOBE MESA Dreams Grow, Too

GREGORY'S MESQUITE GRILL A Season Worth Savoring

VIEW ON INSPIRATION

VIEW ON DESIGN

VIEW ON FINANCE

72 82 84

The Gifts That Never Came in a Box

The Science of Desert Holidays

What Are You Really Saving For?

VIEW ON THE ARTS Twinkling Tinsel Talent Show

table of Contents In Every Issue

VIEW ON PETS

The Holidays According to Your Pets

VIEW ON FITNESS

Try Some Anti-Inflammatory Holiday Recipes

VIEW ON GOLF

VIEW ON MOTIVATION

Gifts for the Golfer in Your Life

Don't Wait Until January

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view on INSPIRATION

the

Gifts

That Never Came in a Box by Judi Moreo

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rowing up, we didn't have much money. I knew that. What I didn't know was that we were poor. My mother never let Christmas feel poor.

Every year, we went to the Christmas tree lot together. Mom gave us a budget and told us how much we could spend. Then the hunt began. We weren't looking for the biggest or most expensive tree on the lot. We were looking for the best tree we could find for the money we had. I didn't realize it then, but that was one of the first gifts my mother gave me that never came in a box: the ability to see possibilities instead of limitations.

Our tree didn't go up weeks before Christmas. We decorated it on Christmas Eve, and decorating it was an event. Out came the same ornaments we had used the year before—and probably the year before that. Even the tinsel had been carefully removed from the tree after the previous Christmas, saved, and put away to be used again. Before we began decorating, we popped corn. Some of it we ate, of course, but much of it was threaded onto long strings with a needle to make garlands for the tree.

Then the Ritual Began... VIEWO N M AGAZ INE | Novem ber - D ec emb e r 2026 | 11

Lights first. Then ornaments. Then popcorn strings. And finally, the tinsel. There were Rules about the tinsel. It had to be placed carefully on the tree one strand at a time. There was absolutely no standing across the room and throwing handfuls of it at the branches. (Unless, of course, you could do it without getting caught.) Somewhere during all this decorating there would be hot chocolate and cookies. There was talking. There was teasing. And there was always laughter.

Lots of laughter.

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When Christmas morning arrived, we each received one present. Usually it was something my mother had made for us. There weren't mountains of brightly wrapped packages under our tree. There were no credit cards being stretched to their limits. There wasn't a frantic attempt to make sure everyone received everything on a Christmas list. And yet, when I look back on those Christmases today, I don't remember feeling that anything was missing. Quite the opposite. I remember feeling that Christmas was magical. It took me many years to understand what my mother had actually given us. She gave us anticipation. She gave us traditions.

They'll remember the stories we told. They'll remember traditions that seemed silly at the time but somehow became precious as the years passed. They'll remember who made them laugh. They'll remember who made them feel special. They'll remember who was there. So perhaps this holiday season, along with asking, "What should I buy them?" we might ask a different question: "What can I give them that they will still have long after Christmas is over?"

She taught us to take care of what we had—even the tinsel—because if something still had value, there was no reason to throw it away.

Give someone your time. Give encouragement to someone who has stopped believing in themselves. Give forgiveness when you've been holding onto an old hurt. Give a child a tradition. Give someone a handwritten letter telling them what they have meant in your life. Give laughter. Give your full attention. Give love generously.

She taught us creativity. If we couldn't buy elaborate decorations, we could pop corn, get out the needle and thread, and make something beautiful ourselves.

Those gifts require no batteries. They never go out of style. They don't need to be exchanged for another size. And they don't need wrapping paper.

She taught us that a limited budget didn't have to limit our happiness. She gave us her time. She gave us laughter. And most of all, she gave us love.

More than seven decades have passed since those childhood Christmases, and I can't tell you everything that was under our trees.

None of those gifts came in a box.

But I can still see my mother. I can see the old ornaments coming out again. I can taste the hot chocolate. I can see our strings of popcorn. I can picture that carefully preserved tinsel hanging from the branches—one strand at a time. And I can still hear the laughter.

Today, Christmas has become a very different experience for many of us. We start seeing decorations in stores before we've finished eating the Halloween candy. We make lists, shop online, track packages, worry about what to buy for people who already seem to have everything, and sometimes spend money we don't have trying to create the "perfect" Christmas. Perhaps in all that effort, we occasionally forget what we're really trying to create: a memory, a feeling. A moment when someone knows, beyond any doubt, that they are loved. They matter. They belong. Those are the gifts people carry with them. Years from now, our children and grandchildren may not remember what we bought them. They may not remember how much it cost or what store it came from. But they'll remember the cookies they made with us.

We didn't have much. But somehow, my mother made us feel as though we had everything. Looking back, I realize we did. The best gifts were never under the tree at all.V Judi Moreo is an award-winning author, speaker, artist, and creativity educator whose career has inspired people around the world to believe in themselves and their possibilities. Founder of the Center for Creative Expression in Las Vegas, she continues to write, teach, create, and encourage others to live with purpose, courage, and creativity. Email judi@thecenterforcreativeexpression.com.

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area

Holiday Events

guide

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1,000 Flags Over Mesquite Celebrates 20 Years:

HONORING THE FIRST VETERANS by Amy Bradshaw

or 20 years, one thousand American flags have stood proudly in Mesquite as a powerful tribute to the men and women who have served our nation. This November 8–15, 1,000 Flags Over Mesquite returns for its 20th year, with a special theme honoring “The First Veterans” in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.

members, volunteers, businesses, and residents have worked together to create this remarkable tribute. This year, the Virgin Valley Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR), is honored to carry the tradition forward into its third decade as our nation celebrates its 250th birthday.

The tradition began in 2006 when the Exchange Club of Mesquite brought the Field of Honor concept to our community. For nearly two decades, Exchange Club

This year’s theme, “The First Veterans,” connects today's veterans with the patriots who fought for American independence 250 years ago. Those Revolutionary War

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soldiers answered the call to defend an idea that was still becoming a nation. Their courage and sacrifice established the foundation of the freedoms Americans continue to cherish today. This year's celebration will place a special emphasis on America's youth and the next generation of patriots. Children from the Mesquite STEAM Center will participate in the Veterans Day Ceremony by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and singing “This Land Is Your Land.” A youth essay contest will also invite young people to reflect on the question: What does it mean to be an American in the year of America 250? Students will be encouraged to consider freedom, service, sacrifice, opportunity, and what being an American means to them personally. The goal is not simply to teach history, but to help young people understand their connection to it. Throughout the week, visitors can walk among one thousand full-sized American flags, each representing a veteran or service member and the stories of sacrifice behind our nation's flag. Volunteers maintain a 24-hour vigil, ensuring the flags are never left unattended. The public is invited to visit the field to reflect and remember. Two outstanding speakers will headline this year's ceremonies. Jeffrey J. McKenna, author of Saving Dr. Warren... “A True Patriot,” will speak at the Veterans Day Ceremony on November 11 at 6 p.m. Through his nonprofit, Help Patriotism Prevail, McKenna has distributed thousands of books and educational resources and travels nationwide to encourage patriotism among young Americans.

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The closing ceremony, scheduled for Sunday, November 15, at 2 p.m., will feature Captain Kevin M. Smith, USN (Ret.), known as the “Sonic Warrior” and former commander of the first deployed Top Gun unit in the U.S. Navy. An author and speaker, Captain Smith shares stories and lessons from his career as a naval aviator during the era of supersonic flight. For this year's closing ceremony, 1,000 Flags Over Mesquite has received approval from the United States Air Force for a flyover, and organizers are currently working with Nellis Air Force Base to coordinate the aircraft and logistics. If successfully arranged, the flyover will provide a spectacular tribute to the veterans represented by one thousand flags. As 1,000 Flags enters its third decade, the Virgin Valley DAR invites the entire community to become part of this special anniversary. But the flags don't stand on their own. Volunteers are needed to help set up the field, maintain the 24-hour vigil, assist with ceremonies, and help bring the event to a close. Youth, families, veterans, businesses, and community organizations all have a place in this year's celebration. One thousand flags. Twenty years. Two hundred fifty years of American history. One enduring message: We remember. We honor. We are grateful.V If you would like more information about 1,000 Flags Over Mesquite, please see our website at www.virginvalleydar.org, email virginvalleydar@gmail.com, or follow our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/1000FlagsOverMesquite.

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by Brian Tenney

his Christmas season, people throughout southern Utah and northern Nevada will have an opportunity to help individuals and families in need, both locally and around the world, through the annual Light the World Giving Machine Initiative. From November 16, 2026, to January 2, 2027, customized vending machines will be available at The Red Cliffs Mall. The machines will offer items such as clothing, food, hygiene supplies, school supplies, and livestock that visitors can purchase and donate through participating nonprofit organizations. The Giving Machine Initiative is sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Now in its ninth year, the initiative will operate in over 125 cities across more than 20 countries and six continents. Since 2017, approximately $70 million has been donated through the initiative. The Church covers all operating expenses, allowing participating nonprofit organizations to receive one hundred percent of each donation. Kacey Jones, St. George Region Communication Council co-Director for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shared that the total number of donations made in 2025 through the machines at the Red Cliffs Mall was 24,445 from over 8,200 transactions. 20 | VIEW ON MAGA Z I N E | N ov e m b e r - D e c e m b e r 2 0 2 6

The breakdown of key local and global impacts from southern Utah donors is as follows: 396,000 meals for community members 14,028 boxes of mac ’n cheese 1,656 items of essential clothing for local children/teens 2,217 hygiene kits for southern Utahns 1,075 nights of shelter 168,500 life-saving polio vaccines for children under five years old 7,932 chickens and 3,360 fruit trees for poverty alleviation and family self-reliance 1,796 books for local children’s literacy

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Machines at The Red Cliffs Mall will feature items provided by these participating local and global nonprofit organizations:

Root for Kids

Family Healthcare

Utah Foster Care

Utah Food Bank

Canyon Creek Services

Church World Services (CWS)

African Girls Hope Foundation

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Participating organizations undergo a thorough vetting process with strict criteria, including a requirement that they cannot use more than 10% of their receipts for administrative purposes. In each city where machines are placed, hundreds of volunteers serve on planning committees or as on-site hosts, welcoming visitors and helping them participate in the experience.V For more information about the initiative and to see its global impact, visit www.GivingMachine.org.

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Celebrating the Holidays

in Southern Utah

by David Cordero, City of St. George

hile our Christmas season may not produce the prototypical winter wonderland, St. George’s stunning red rock landscapes and mild winter temperatures create an eye-catching backdrop for holiday celebrations. From dazzling light displays to magical rides on the North Pole Express, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Even if snow isn’t part of the equation.

Here is the lineup of St. George’s 2026 holiday events: KICKOFF TO CHRISTMAS Start your holiday season during the City of St. George’s and 94.9 Cat Country’s Kickoff to Christmas, set for Historic Town Square on November 30, from 6 to 8 p.m. Families can enjoy holiday crafts and activities at The St. George Children’s Museum, as well as hot chocolate and cookies provided by Hedgehog Electric. Live entertainment from local performers will fill the air with holiday cheer, and the Ugly Sweater Contest returns—be sure to enter! Santa Claus will also be making a special appearance, ready to listen to the wishes of each boy and girl. This event is a beloved tradition here in St. George—one you won’t want to miss! TOWN SQUARE HOLIDAY LIGHTS Even if you are unable to attend Kickoff to Christmas, Town Square is still the place to be throughout the holiday season! The lights unveiled that evening will continue to shine through New Year’s, keeping the festive spirit alive the entire month. Beginning in October, Parks Division employees carefully hang nearly 400,000 lights to create this spectacular sight. Their hard work creates an amazing visual for the entire community to admire. Take a stroll through Town Square, soak in the brilliant display, and capture the perfect Christmas card photo in front of the iconic tree. VIEWO N M AGAZ INE | Novem ber - D ec emb e r 2026 | 25

RED HILLS DESERT GARDEN HOLIDAY LIGHTS Experience the magic of the season atop the red hill as Red Hills Desert Garden transforms into a glowing wonderland. Each night, thousands of lights illuminate the renowned botanical garden—managed by the Washington County Water Conservancy District—creating a gorgeous display that shines into the new year. Water district staff have crafted enchanting displays featuring a whimsical candyland scene with giant cupcakes and candy canes, glowing stars suspended above the slot canyon, and warm luminaries guiding visitors along the garden paths. Lights shine nightly from 5 to 10 p.m., giving guests plenty of time to wander, explore, and enjoy the beauty at their own pace. Visit wcwcd.gov for additional details.

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THUNDER JUNCTION NORTH POLE EXPRESS The North Pole Express makes its return to Thunder Junction All Abilities Park! Families are invited to experience the holiday magic as it comes alive with twinkling lights and colorful displays. Children can meet Santa, decorate Christmas cookies, sip warm hot cocoa, and create holiday crafts.

But no visit is complete without taking a ride on the famous North Pole Express, where the lighted train winds through the park, offering a whole new perspective of the festive displays. This is a ticketed event. Sales start November 16 at 10 a.m. at www.sgcityutah.gov.

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CONCERTS AT THE ELECTRIC This year, the City of St. George is thrilled to continue its Concerts at the Electric series! On December 14 at 7 p.m., the series celebrates the Christmas season with the Color Country Choir.

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This event takes place at the Electric Theater Center (68 E. Tabernacle Street) and is free to the public. Seating is limited, so make sure to get there early and enjoy this festive concert!

LIGHT THE NIGHT EVENT AND EXHIBITION OPENING Celebrate the season at the St. George Museum of Art! Join us on December 5 at 6 p.m. for Light the Night, a cheery evening filled with art, creativity, and holiday fun sponsored by Zions Bank. Explore the museum’s current exhibitions, including Aziza Abdieva’s Fear Alchemy and Ben Steele’s 45th State of Mind, while enjoying live music, hot chocolate, donuts, and a hands-on opportunity to create your own luminary. Bring family and friends and spend the evening surrounded by art, community, and holiday cheer. Light the Night is free and open to all.V

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Washington City Arts Council Presents the Second Annual

by Todd Prince

Artisan Holiday Market

he Washington City Arts Council invites the community to kick off the holiday season with creativity, community, and one-of-a-kind finds at the Second Annual Artisan Holiday Market, taking place Friday and Saturday, November 27–28, 2026, at Heritage Hall in Washington, Utah. This festive two-day event will bring together talented artists, crafters, and makers from throughout Washington County for a celebration of local creativity and craftsmanship. As the holiday season officially begins, the Artisan Holiday Market offers shoppers an opportunity to discover meaningful gifts while supporting the people who create them. Whether you’re searching for a unique holiday gift, something special for your home, or simply want to experience the talents 30 | VIEW ON MAGA Z I N E | N ov e m b e r - D e c e m b e r 2 0 2 6

of our local creative community, the Artisan Holiday Market is the perfect place to start your holiday shopping. Visitors will have the opportunity to browse a variety of distinctive handcrafted items while meeting the talented individuals who created them. The market is designed to showcase the skill, imagination, and variety found within Washington County’s growing creative community. Rather than choosing from mass-produced selections, visitors can discover items made with care and often find something they simply won’t see anywhere else. One of the highlights of an artisan market is the opportunity to meet the artists and makers behind the work. Guests can learn more about their creative processes, hear the stories

and inspiration behind individual pieces, and gain a greater appreciation for the time, talent, and craftsmanship that go into handmade work. By shopping at the Artisan Holiday Market, guests will not only discover exceptional, one-of-a-kind treasures—they’ll also support local artists, artisans, makers, and small businesses right here in Washington County. Every purchase helps strengthen the local creative economy and encourages artists and craftspeople to continue producing and sharing their work with the community. The Artisan Holiday Market is also about more than shopping. It is an opportunity to gather with neighbors, friends, and family in a festive setting and celebrate the creativity that exists throughout southern Utah. Heritage Hall provides an inviting setting for the market and a chance for visitors to slow down during the busy holiday season, explore the displays, talk with local makers, and enjoy the experience of shopping locally. Following the success of its inaugural event, the Washington City Arts Council is excited to bring the Artisan Holiday Market back for a second year. The event reflects the arts council’s ongoing commitment to creating opportunities for local artists, expanding community access to the arts, and providing programs and events that bring people together through creativity.

Save the Date

Friday, November 27, 2026 12–5 p.m. Saturday, November 28, 2026 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Heritage Hall, 50 N. Main, Washington, Utah Bring your family and friends, enjoy the festive atmosphere, meet local makers, and find something truly special for everyone on your holiday list. Whether you leave with a handcrafted gift, a new piece for your home, or simply a greater appreciation for the talented people who create art and handmade goods in our community, there will be plenty to discover.V Shop local. Support local makers. Celebrate creativity. The Washington City Arts Council looks forward to welcoming the community to the Second Annual Artisan Holiday Market and celebrating the creativity, craftsmanship, and community spirit that make Washington County such a colorful place to live. . About the Washington City Arts Council The Washington City Arts Council is dedicated to enriching the community through the arts by providing opportunities for local artists, encouraging creative expression, and offering arts programs, workshops, exhibitions, and special events that connect residents with the region’s creative community. Email: washingtoncityartscouncil@gmail.com Website: www.washingtoncityartscouncil.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/wcacut VIEWO N M AGAZ INE | Novem ber - D ec emb e r 2026 | 31

Make Part of Your Holiday Tradition

by Trisha Dunn

here’s something especially magical about the holidays at Tuacahn. Surrounded by the towering red cliffs of Padre Canyon, Tuacahn transforms into a festive destination filled with twinkling lights, holiday music, family traditions, and unforgettable entertainment. This November and December, make Tuacahn part of your holiday celebration with Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn and the return of Christmas in the Canyon.

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Holiday Inn November 20–December 22, 2026 | Indoor Hafen Theatre Celebrate the season with the timeless music, romance, and charm of Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn. Based on the beloved classic film, this heartwarming musical follows Jim, who leaves the bright lights of show business behind for a quieter life on a Connecticut farm. Before long, a new dream takes center stage when he transforms the property into an inn featuring spectacular holiday performances throughout the year.

Filled with dancing, romance, laughter, and some of Irving Berlin’s most memorable songs—including “Blue Skies,” “Cheek to Cheek,” “Easter Parade,” and the iconic “White Christmas”— Holiday Inn is a feel-good celebration perfect for the season. Performed in Tuacahn’s intimate Indoor Hafen Theatre, Holiday Inn runs November 20 through December 22, making it the perfect holiday date night, family outing, or new Christmas tradition. VIEWO N M AGAZ INE | Novem ber - D ec emb e r 2026 | 33

Christmas in the Canyon The magic continues outside with Christmas in the Canyon, where Tuacahn’s red rocks provide a spectacular backdrop for an evening filled with holiday delights. Experience the story of the first Christmas with Tuacahn’s Live Nativity, featuring live actors, beautiful costumes, narration, music, and live animals, including camels, donkeys, and sheep. Performances are approximately 20 minutes, with showtimes at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. on select nights.

Families can also visit Santa Claus, climb aboard the Tuacahn Express for a festive ride through the canyon, and enjoy thousands of sparkling lights, holiday music, and even a little Christmas snow on the plaza. Christmas in the Canyon is offered on select nights throughout the holiday season. Be sure to check the calendar at Tuacahn.org for specific dates, times, and activities available on the night of your visit. And don’t be surprised if you see a few snowflakes! Snow falls on the Tuacahn plaza every 15 minutes throughout the evening, adding an extra touch of Christmas magic. Want to experience even more in one night? Attend the 7 p.m. Live Nativity in the outdoor amphitheatre, then head inside the Hafen Theatre for the 7:45 p.m. performance of Holiday Inn. Whether you come for the show, the lights, Santa, the Live Nativity, or all of it, a holiday evening at Tuacahn is an experience designed to bring family and friends together and create memories that last long after the season ends.V 34 | VIEW ON MAGA Z I N E | N ov e m b e r - D e c e m b e r 2 0 2 6

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Where the Holidays

Shine

by Kaylee Pickering

he glow of a Christmas tree in Main Street Park beneath the silhouette of an old rock church. The sound of carolers making their way down Main Street and hundreds of eager children welcoming Santa Claus to town. There’s a certain kind of magic in finding a snowy mountain town glowing against the night sky or discovering a neighborhood or art center transformed into a full-blown Christmas wonderland.

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In Cedar City, Parowan, and Brian Head, the holidays blend big events, Hallmark moments, and a season filled with small traditions, twinkling lights, and hot-chocolate-fueled nights. From community lighting and candlelit walks to chilly nights at 10,000 feet, southern Utah offers plenty of ways to make the holidays magical. Bundle up, grab the cocoa, and follow the lights.

Christmas Lights & Holiday Events in Southern Utah Word Count: 884 Images: 8 Photo Credits:

Shopping at the Festival City Holiday Market in downtown Cedar City, UT | PC Dallas Smith Digital Historic Downtown Lighting Ceremony fireworks and holiday lights | PC Dallas Smith Digital

Historic Downtown Lighting Ceremony in Cedar City, UT | Photo credit: Dallas Smith Digital

Where The Magic Begins: Downtown Cedar City Twinkling lights in historic windows, horse-drawn carriage rides, and carolers make Historic Downtown Cedar City the embodiment of holiday charm and Christmas magic in December. With shop windows dressed in their holiday finest and crowds wandering the holiday market, the anticipation of the holidays is palpable as everyone gathers. The annual Downtown Lighting Ceremony begins with holiday shopping and activities for the entire family before culminating in Santa’s arrival, fireworks, and a live Nativity. With Main Street closed to traffic and the lights all aglow, families gather for photos, treats, and a walk beneath the beautiful lights.

A little holiday magic goes a long way as Santa arrives and leads the crowd in a countdown to turn on the lights and ring in the holidays! Follow jolly Old Saint Nick himself over to the amazingly decorated trees at the Holiday Tree Jubilee for additional magic. Cedar City Downtown Lighting Ceremony: Saturday, November 28

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Parowan Winter Wonderland | Photo credit: Dallas Smith Digital

Winter Wonderland and Small Town Traditions in Parowan There’s something about the holidays in Parowan that feels like you’ve stepped into a Hallmark movie. Shop windows glow with warm lights, inviting you in with festive window paintings and tinsel-covered holiday displays. Quiet and cozy, the town invites you to wander as you walk Main Street to visit local shops, making your way to Main Street Park and the beloved Winter 38 | VIEW ON MAGA Z I N E | N ov e m b e r - D e c e m b e r 2 0 2 6

Wonderland. A brightly lit archway welcomes you in, along with the locals, as you meander around a photo-perfect towering metal tree adorned with lights and visit the other light displays throughout the park. The longer you’re there, the more you’ll find! See giant Christmas lights hanging from trees, a cute gingerbread playhouse, and a carousel for teddy bears. It's cute and cozy and quintessential Christmas. The holiday celebrations in Parowan start with two days of shopping at the annual Christmas in the Country event and Holiday Bazaar. The Candlelight Walking Parade and Town Lighting Ceremony follow this event. Bring your own candle (battery-powered welcome), and walk with the community down Main Street, singing familiar carols and reveling in holiday spirit. Parowan Lighting Events and Christmas in the Country: November 27 and 28

Holiday Lights in Parowan Winter Wonderland | Photo credit: Dallas Smith Digital

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Brian Head Ice Holiday Lights | Photo credit: Visit Cedar City

The High Road to the Holidays: Christmas in Brian Head

Beneath an unbelievably dark sky, the town of Brian Head gathers at Bristlecone Pond Pavilion to ring in the holidays with hot cocoa, cookies, and s’mores. It’s snowy and cold at 10,000 feet, but the holiday traditions and spirit are warm and bright beneath the silhouette of Giant Steps Mountain and Brian Head Resort. Visit with Santa, take in the holiday sights, and stay for skiing the next morning. Tucked among beautiful pines at 10,000 feet, the bright holiday lights at Brian Head Ice add to the ambiance as you glide across the ice beneath brilliantly dark skies. In town, you’ll find pines wrapped with lights along with the classic holiday ski vibe in Brian Head. Brian Head Lighting Extravaganza: November 25 40 | VIEW ON MAGA Z I N E | N ov e m b e r - D e c e m b e r 2 0 2 6

Where to Wander for Holiday Lights With light displays from Cedar City to Brian Head, it’s easy to turn an entire evening into driving around looking at gorgeous lights. With treats and a holiday playlist, it’s a pretty great ride! Grab a copy of the holiday map at visitcedarcity.com, and check out some of our favorite light locations. The Beverley Center for the Arts The sculpture gardens and grounds of the Utah Shakespeare Festival and Southern Utah Museum of Art are home to beautiful holiday displays. Music plays throughout the gardens, and the lights shimmer in shades of silver, gold, and bright holiday colors. Lights and Holidays at the Homestead In December, the historic homes and grounds of the Frontier Homestead State Park museum welcome visitors with holiday lights, Christmas music, and cozy pioneer charm. Catch their annual Holidays at the Homestead event for family fun and activities before coming back to wander the spruced-up grounds. Holiday Lights at the Beverley Center for the Arts | Photo credit: Dallas Smith Digital

Lights at the Frontier | Photo credit: Visit Cedar City · Brian Head

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Scenic Drives for Holiday Lights like Christmas Lane | Photo credit: Visit Cedar City

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Drive Through the “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas Story” at Christmas Lane Every year, Christmas Lane opens to the public and becomes a bustling neighborhood of families coming back for their favorite holiday tradition. With streets carefully marked, visitors can drive through the neighborhood and read the classic “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” story as they go. Each house glows with holiday lights and fun displays while the story signs guide you through a largerthan-life telling of the beloved Christmas tale. Bundle up, travel safely, and happy holidays!V Find upcoming events and winter travel information at visitcedarcity.com or @visitcedarcity.

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Home for the Holidays: A Season of Celebration in Mesquite

by Jean Watkins

hen the desert air cools and holiday lights begin to glow along Mesquite Boulevard, our community settles into its busiest and most generous season. November and December bring parades and patriotism, stages full of holiday cheer, fundraisers that lift our neighbors, and plenty of fun in between. Whether you've called the Virgin Valley home for decades or you're here for the winter, there's something on the calendar for you. So grab a pen and start circling dates.

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Honoring Our Veterans November in Mesquite belongs to our veterans, and the town turns out in force to say thank you. The tribute begins Saturday, November 7, at 10 a.m. with the Veterans Day Parade along Mesquite Boulevard to Arrowhead. The next morning, volunteers begin setting up 1,000 Flags Over Mesquite on the rec center’s west field. It will be a stirring display that stands day and night through November 15. The Opening Flag Ceremony is Wednesday, November 11, at 6 p.m., and the Closing Ceremony is Sunday, November 15, at 2 p.m.

Veterans Day starts at 8 a.m. with the Honoring Our Veterans Ceremony at Veterans Park, followed by the Mesquite Chamber of Commerce's "Take a Vet to Brunch" event at 9 a.m. at the Eureka. On November 10, the Marine Corps Ball fills the Eureka Casino Ballroom with cocktails, dinner, and dancing.

Virgin Valley Honor Guard

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Holiday Stage and Song Few things say "holiday" like live performances, and Mesquite's stages are full this season. The Mesquite Community Theatre opens November 7 at 7 p.m. with their “Off the Rails” show, featuring the band Retro Relics, then presents the "Lights On!" Christmas Show, directed by Larry Lemieux, on November 27 and 28. Music lovers won't want to miss the Winter Strings and Choir Concert at the Virgin Valley High School Auditorium on December 3, from 6 to 9 p.m.

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Giving Back Mesquite has a big heart, and the holidays show it. Many of the season's events support local causes, so your fun does double duty. The P.E.O. Tot-ally Chic Purse Auction opens on November 1 at 2 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Resort. On November 7, the Mesquite Showgirls will host "Pumpkin Spice and All Things Nice" Bingo with raffles, also at the Holiday Inn. Games start at 11 a.m. Golfers can play for a good cause twice. The Valley Rally two-person scramble at the Palmer and Oasis Golf Courses on November 15 benefits Mesquite Cancer HELP Society, and Golf Fore Kids on December 10 supports underprivileged Virgin Valley children. From November 16 to 22, the Future Farmers of America will fill the Holiday Inn with decorated trees, vendors, performers, and prizes at the FFA Tree Gala. On Thanksgiving Eve, November 25, the Mesquite Senior Center serves its Community Thanksgiving Dinner from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., dine-in or take-out. Mesquite’s year of giving closes with the Parade of Lights on December 3, the city’s largest annual cannedfood drive, where spectators bring nonperishable items and canned goods for needy families. The parade starts at 5:30 p.m. with a 4:30 p.m. lineup.

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Arts and Culture All Season Our arts community keeps galleries and classrooms buzzing. During November, the Virgin Valley Artists Association Mesquite Fine Arts Center hosts the National Small Works Competition and Exhibition. In December, it becomes home to the Artists Association Christmas Boutique and the Lucky 13 Competition and Exhibition, open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It's a wonderful place to find oneof-a-kind gifts. Second Saturday Art Festivals are on November 14 and December 12, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring local art, food, vendors, and music. Pet Mania winners will be announced at the Artists Reception on November 19 at 4 p.m. For more Fine Arts Center events, call (702) 346-1338. For a trip back in time, visit the Virgin Valley Heritage Museum's Christmas exhibit, which celebrates Mesquite holidays of years past.

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Just for Fun Some of the season's best memories come from the offbeat and the energetic. Head to Beaver Dam Station and Bar in Littlefield for the lawnmower races on November 7 and December 12 at 11 a.m., Arizona time! Motor fans can catch the Desert Motor Cross Oasis Grand Prix at Mesquite Motorcross Park from November 13–15.

Dust off your dancing shoes for the free 70s and 80s DJ Dance Night at the Eureka on December 19, 8 p.m. to midnight. Mesquite Senior Games athletes stay busy too, with a golf tournament on November 4 and the Holiday Bowling Tournament in December. And all December long, take an evening drive to enjoy the entries in the Parks and Rec Department's Holiday Light Display Contest. Shop Local, Stay Connected The Mesquite Chamber of Commerce Mingle and Jingle Holiday Luncheon on December 11 at the CasaBlanca and their Small Business Saturday on November 28 are great ways to support the businesses that support us. Community members can also catch up at What's Happening Mesquite, the Chamber’s quarterly networking breakfast at Cinnamon Café on December 3 at 8 a.m. For reservations for all three, call (702) 346-2902. A Final Thought Dates and details can change, and several events are still being finalized. For a complete, up-to-date calendar with dates, locations, and numbers to call for more information, visit www.eventsinmesquite.com. However you celebrate, we hope to see you out and about this season. Happy holidays, Mesquite!V VIEWO N M AGAZ INE | Novem ber - D ec emb e r 2026 | 49

Discover the Magic of Local Giving at the Mesquite Fine Arts Center

Annual Christmas Boutique by Mary Mathis

he holiday season is a special time in Mesquite; it’s a time for gathering with family and friends, enjoying familiar traditions, and finding meaningful ways to celebrate our community. This year, the Mesquite Fine Arts Center invites you to make shopping local part of your holiday tradition with our annual Christmas Boutique, running November 2 through December 31, 2026. Step inside the gallery and you’ll find a wonderful collection of unique, handcrafted treasures created by talented local artists and craftspeople. The Christmas Boutique is the perfect place to slow down, browse, and discover something truly special for everyone on your holiday shopping list. If you’re searching for a gift that is a little different from the ordinary, our boutique is the right place. It features oneof-a-kind artwork, handmade crafts, specialty items, and unique gifts that you simply won’t find in a typical store. From beautiful pieces to thoughtful treasures, surprises are around every corner—and you never know what wonderful discovery might be waiting for you. There’s something particularly special about giving a handmade gift. Behind every creation is an artist who has invested time, imagination, skill, and a little piece of themselves into making something special.

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When you purchase from the Christmas Boutique, you’re giving more than a gift—you’re giving something with character and a story while supporting artists who contribute so much to the cultural life of our community. Holiday shopping at the Mesquite Fine Arts Center is also an opportunity to shop small and support local. Your purchases help keep creativity thriving right here in the Virgin Valley and allow local artists to continue sharing their talents with our community. Whether you have a long holiday shopping list or simply want to spend an afternoon enjoying the creativity of local artists, we hope you’ll stop by. Bring a friend, bring the family, or take a little time for yourself to wander through the gallery and enjoy the festive season. And of course there’s plenty of parking, making it easy and convenient to pop in while you’re out running errands. Before heading out of town to find that perfect gift this holiday season, take a look right here at home. You may discover something beautiful, unexpected, and truly unique. Shop local. Support local artists. Give something special. Come celebrate the season with us and discover the joy of finding a gift that is as unique as the person receiving it!V The Christmas Boutique will be open November 2 through December 31, Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Mesquite Fine Arts Center, 15 W. Mesquite Boulevard in Mesquite, Nevada.

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Come Make Taffy With Us This Holiday Season by Liv Scalley

ack in 1993, our founder brought Taffy Shop to life on the shores of the Great Salt Lake, and over 30 years later, we still can't get over how much fun taffy is to make. This holiday season, we want to share that experience with your family.

minutes pulling, stretching, designing, and wrapping your very own batch of taffy. It's messier than you'd think, and it's part of what makes this experience so unique. By the end, you'll walk out with taffy you made yourself and a little extra arm strength from all your stretching.

Get Your Hands Sticky

The groups that come through these classes are why we love doing what we do: grandparents showing grandkids the ropes, teenagers laughing their way through a mess they didn't

When you show up to our Taffyology™ class, we hand you the tools (plus an incredible instructor), and you spend about 75 54 | VIEW ON MAGA Z I N E | N ov e m b e r - D e c e m b e r 2 0 2 6

expect, and first dates that turn into inside jokes about the design they tried to make. Every session is a little different, and every time, we get to watch people slow down and make something together. That's the part that never gets old for us. We can fit up to 24 people at once, so bring the whole crew if you'd like. Little ones ages three to seven just need an adult next to them, and we'd suggest wearing something you don't mind getting a little messy (unless you really like laundry). If getting to the shop isn't in the cards this season, we also put together an At-Home Taffy Making Kit, so that you can experience all the best parts of Taffyology in the comfort of your own home. It's become a favorite for families who want to do their own thing on a cold December afternoon or as a gift for someone who loves candy as much as we do.

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Still Just a Candy Shop at Heart

Classes aside, taffy is still what started all of this. Unlike traditional taffy, we whip ours through a 24-hour process instead of just pulling it because we've never been in a hurry to rush the good stuff. It comes out soft, fluffy, and perfectly stretchy, and we make it in more than 75 flavors. Some are the classics you grew up with; others we dreamed up simply because we thought they'd be fun. Our taffy is peanut, gluten, and soy-free, so it's easy to share with just about everyone on your list. Speaking of lists, if you're gift shopping, we've got a few favorites we love handing to people this time of year. Our Santa Snax, Frost Bites, and Merry Christmoose bags have become holiday staples around here, and there's something nice about giving someone a bag of taffy that actually reflects the season. We can also put together custom bags with your own design or logo, which have turned into a bit of a tradition for teachers, neighbors, coworkers, or anyone else you're thinking of this year. And if there's someone on your list who's always hard to shop for, our Taffy of the Month Club keeps the gift going long after the holidays are over. However you spend this season, we hope it's full of good company and a little bit of sweetness. If that includes a stop by our shop or a bag of taffy under the tree, we'd be honored to be part of it.V Find us at 2397 Santa Clara Dr., Santa Clara, Utah 84765. Call or text (801) 928-7080, email hello@taffyshop.com, or head to taffyshop.com to book a class or order online. We're also on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube @taffyshopdotcom.

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view on DESIGN

The Science of Desert Holidays

HOW TO LAYER COZY TRADITIONS WITH A SENSE OF PLACE by Randi Fuller

s a little girl growing up in Vermont, December came with expectations. My birthday falls in December, so the entire month felt wrapped in magic. Snow blanketed everything outside while fires crackled inside. Christmas trees smelled like pine, and winter itself seemed to announce that the holidays had arrived. When my family moved west, the holidays felt different. There was

no snow outside the window, our Christmas tree was artificial, and if I wanted the smell of pine, it came from a candle. It took me a while to appreciate celebrating in the desert for what it was rather than for everything it wasn't. I know I'm not alone. Many of us in Mesquite brought our holiday traditions from somewhere else.

Whether your memories include Wisconsin snow, a Minnesota lake, an Idaho mountain town, or someplace entirely different, we each carry our own ideas about what the holidays should look, smell, and feel like. The goal isn't to leave those traditions behind. It's to layer the holidays you remember with the place you call home today.

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Start With Your Story Before worrying about trends, identify what the holidays say to you. It might be ornaments gathered over decades, a menorah passed through your family, treasured dishes, colorful lights, or decorations your family looks forward to seeing each year. These are the traditions you'll build around. They don't have to match perfectly; they simply need to mean something to you. Some of the most meaningful layers may already be packed away in your holiday boxes. Look at Where You Are Next, layer those traditions into the home and landscape you have today. Your flooring, cabinetry, furniture, architecture, and views create a palette before a single decoration comes out of storage. The Mojave offers warm stone, sand, and natural wood alongside sage, terracotta, sunset golds, and dusty rose. You don't have to trade traditional holiday colors for desert ones. Find the bridge between them. Evergreen pairs naturally with sage and wood. Deep reds work beautifully with terracotta and brass. Cream and warm metallics can soften almost any holiday palette. Texture and scent can become layers, too. Pair greenery with pottery, woven textiles, or wood. Fresh greenery, a favorite candle, or a simmer pot can bring back familiar holiday scents even when the landscape outside looks very different. The result isn't a “desert-themed” holiday. It's your holiday grounded in where you are now. 58 | VIEW ON MAGA Z I N E | N ov e m b e r - D e c e m b e r 2 0 2 6

Choose Your Star Our eyes naturally look for a place to land. Designers call this visual hierarchy—creating an order for what we notice first, second, and third. A decorated Christmas tree demonstrates this beautifully. The star at the top creates a natural focal point, drawing the eye upward. From there, the tree's triangular shape leads the eye down while strands of light create a glowing path through the branches. Larger decorations provide secondary points of interest, while smaller ornaments invite us to look closer. Repeated colors, shapes, and lights create rhythm. Your eye doesn't process every ornament at once. It follows a path. Use the same principle throughout your holiday décor. Choose your “star”—perhaps a tree, fireplace, dining table, menorah display, or entryway—then let everything else support it. Light, scale, contrast, and repetition guide attention without making everything compete.

Build Around Your Star Once you've chosen your star, add supporting layers through lighting, textiles, greenery, and smaller decorations. Repeat a few colors, materials, or shapes to connect everything together. Grouping matters, too. Our brains naturally see things placed close together as belonging together, a principle called proximity. Five ceramic trees grouped together read as one intentional display; scattered across five surfaces, they can begin to feel like clutter. But layering doesn't mean filling every surface. Negative space means leaving areas where nothing demands attention. It gives the eye somewhere to rest and makes decorated areas stand out. Even the spaces between branches, lights, and ornaments on a Christmas tree help us appreciate each layer. Good holiday layering isn't about adding more. It's about making what you add belong. And when you're finished, your home shouldn't look like someone else's idea of the holidays. It should feel like yours. The most beautiful holiday home in the desert isn't one that forgets where you came from or disguises where you are; it's one that makes room for both.V Randi Fuller is a Psychology-Based Design Strategist and founder of The Science of Sanctuaries™, an evidence-based design philosophy exploring how environments influence emotional well-being, functionality, and human experience. With a background in behavioral health and years of industry experience as owner of Mesquite Tile & Flooring, Randi combines psychology, research, artistry, and real-world design expertise to help homeowners and businesses create spaces that feel both beautiful and supportive. She advocates for thoughtful, psychology-informed environments that prioritize safety, aesthetics, and emotional well-being while making evidence-based design approachable and accessible to homeowners and small businesses alike. Follow Randi on social media @thescienceofsanctuaries @mesquitetile. Mesquite Tile is located at 521 W. Mesquite Blvd. Ste. A in Mesquite, Nevada. For any questions, please call (702) 346-7225 or visit www.mesquitetile.com. VIEWO N M AGAZ INE | Novem ber - D ec emb e r 2026 | 59

What the Desert Does

to Your Driveway And why the cool months are a better time to fix it than you'd think by Bert Metcalf, Owner of Concrete Like New

rive through a neighborhood in Mesquite, St. George, or just about anywhere in between, and you'll see the same driveway issues over and over: faded, stained, and chalky concrete with cracks spreading across the surface. There may also be a dark patch near the garage where somebody's vehicle sat a little too long. Most concrete here isn't old—it's sun damaged. Ultraviolet light does more damage than most people realize. Southern Utah sits under some of the most intense sun in the country, and unprotected concrete is exposed nearly year-round. Ultraviolet light is mostly responsible for fading and discoloration. The temperature swings do a different kind of damage. A scorching afternoon followed by a cool desert night keeps the concrete expanding and contracting, and this constant movement is what opens cracks and makes them wider over time.

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This is why most homeowners eventually look at coating their driveways. A good system protects the concrete and leaves it looking better than new. The trouble is that not all coatings are built to last. Much of the driveway coating work in our region is paint, stain, or clear sealer. All look good the day they’re installed, and none are built to last under extreme UV exposure. They fade, they peel, and a few seasons later, the homeowner is looking at a driveway that looks worse than what they started with. When most people think about concrete coatings, they think of epoxy. Epoxy bonds well, and certain epoxies are excellent at sealing the concrete against moisture pushing up from underneath, which is what slowly ruins coatings from below. What epoxy isn't built for is the sun. Left as the top coat outdoors, it ambers and breaks down. A lesser-known and even more important coating is polyaspartic. It's built to withstand UV light, staining, heat, and impact without yellowing. Polyaspartic excels in the areas where epoxy falls short. Neither one is the whole answer by itself, which is why Concrete Like New uses both. The Concrete Like New Ultra Bond Poly Shield System layers them—epoxy underneath does the sealing, while polyaspartic on top handles the sun, traffic, and everything else a driveway faces. Both coats carry a slip-resistant texture. We treat your driveway quickly and cleanly. Ultra Bond Poly Shield cures quickly enough that many driveways, patios, and garage floors can be prepped and finished in as little as a single day rather than weeks. The crew grinds the surface as needed to prepare the concrete, vacuums the dust with HEPA filtration, treats and fills the cracks, and then applies multiple coats. Cleanup and haul-away happen the same afternoon, and most homeowners are driving on the finished surface within 48 hours.

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The next question worth asking is about the warranty. Coating warranties tend to be short and narrowly written. Concrete Like New takes a different approach. Three years of coverage comes standard and covers peeling, flaking, delamination, and bond failure. Instead of simply expiring, your warranty can be renewed indefinitely. A maintenance visit that includes inspection, cleaning, and a fresh coat resets coverage to a new full term beginning the day the work is done. Maintain the surface, and the warranty never has to expire. Owner Bert Metcalf has been coating concrete since 2001; most of that was in southern California before he came back to southern Utah to be closer to family. He believes the warranty's fine print is more revealing than most people realize. "The warranty a contractor gives you is very telling about who it protects," he says. "The contractor, or the homeowner." Ours is written to protect the homeowner. Timing is the last piece, and it's the part most homeowners have backwards. In colder parts of the country, concrete coating is strictly a warm-weather trade. Here, the opposite is closer to true. November and December bring moderate temperatures and no punishing surface heat, which makes for good working conditions and an easier time getting on a contractor's schedule than the middle of summer. Also, the holiday season is when the most people see your house and when curb appeal matters most. The driveway is the first thing an arriving guest looks at and the last thing they see on the way out. If improving your curb appeal is on your list before the holidays, it's a good time to schedule a free estimate.V Concrete Like New is a licensed decorative concrete contractor based in St. George, serving Washington County, Cedar City, and Mesquite, Nevada. Services include driveway and garage floor coatings, pool deck resurfacing, patios, walkways, stamped concrete, and industrial flooring. Call Bert Metcalf at (435) 572-7445, for a free estimate, or visit concretelikenewutah.com. Utah License #13948452-S330. Nevada License #0094150.

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view on FINANCE

What Are You Really Saving For? by Ron and Andrew Bird

e spend a lot of time thinking about what we can give the people we love. We search for the right gifts, plan family dinners, book flights to see grandchildren, and maybe even make a few charitable donations before the year comes to a close. It’s also a time when we tend to reflect. We think about the year behind us and the one ahead. And for many people, that naturally leads to a bigger question: what are we actually doing with the money we've worked so hard to save? This is a question worth asking, not just during the holidays, but throughout the year. Because investing isn't really about watching an account balance go up and down on a screen. At its best, investing is about creating the financial freedom to do the things that matter to you. The Portfolio Has a Purpose

Imagine a couple who has spent decades saving for retirement. They have a comfortable investment account, their mortgage is paid off, and their children are grown. Yet when their daughter suggests a family trip to Hawaii for Christmas, they hesitate. “We've never spent that much on a vacation,” they say. The hesitation isn't necessarily about whether they can afford it. It's about whether they're allowed to spend the money they've spent decades accumulating. This is where a good financial plan can make a difference. If their investments, retirement income, and overall financial plan have been structured with their goals in mind, they may discover that the trip isn't irresponsible at all. In fact, being able to take that trip may be one of the reasons they saved in the first place. Saving is important. Investing is important. But eventually, your money is supposed to do something for you. 64 | VIEW ON MAGA Z I N E | N ov e m b e r - D e c e m b e r 2 0 2 6

invest in memories

Consider another example: a grandmother who wants to help pay for her grandchildren to come home for Christmas. She could simply write a check. Or perhaps she could have started planning years earlier, setting aside money specifically for family experiences and gifts. Neither approach is necessarily right or wrong. The important thing is that she understands what she wants her money to accomplish and has planned accordingly. Maybe the goal isn't leaving the largest possible inheritance. Maybe it's being able to create memories with the people who will eventually inherit from her anyway. That could mean taking the whole family on a vacation, helping a grandchild with college expenses, or making it possible for everyone to gather together for the holidays. Those are financial decisions, too. consider Gifts That Keep Giving

The holidays can also be a good reminder that generosity doesn't have to be limited to what's underneath the tree. For someone who gives regularly to a favorite charity, the end of the year can be an opportunity to think strategically about charitable giving. Depending on your circumstances, there may be ways to make charitable contributions that fit into a broader tax and financial plan. For someone with adult children, the conversation might be about something completely different. Perhaps they've accumulated retirement accounts, investments, or other assets and want to begin thinking about how those assets will eventually be passed on. And sometimes the most valuable gift isn't money at all.

It might be sitting down with your family and explaining what you've built, why you made certain financial decisions, and what you hope those resources will accomplish after you're gone. Wealth transfer isn't simply about dividing up assets. It's about transferring the things you've worked a lifetime to build thoughtfully. Don't Let the Market Become the focus

Of course, it's hard to talk about investing without talking about the market. There will always be headlines telling us what investors should be worried about. One year, it's inflation. Another year, it's interest rates. Then it's an election, a recession, a geopolitical event, or some new prediction about what the market will do next. But here's the thing: your retirement plan doesn't get to retire just because the market is having a bad day. A thoughtful investment strategy should account for the fact that markets move in both directions. More importantly, it should be connected to your personal timeline and goals. Someone in their thirties saving for retirement may have decades to ride out market fluctuations. Someone who is already retired and relying on investments for income may have a very different set of considerations. The question isn't simply, “What's the market going to do?” A better question is, “What does my financial plan need my money to do?” That's a much more useful conversation. give Permission to Enjoy What You've Built

There's a strange irony in saving for retirement. We spend decades telling ourselves to save more, spend less, and prepare for the future. Then the future arrives, and sometimes we're so accustomed to saving that we're afraid to actually use the money. Maybe you've always dreamed of taking your spouse to Europe. Maybe you want to buy a cabin where your children and grandchildren can gather. Maybe you want to help your daughter start a business. Maybe you'd like to give more generously to your church or favorite charity. Or maybe you simply want the freedom to say yes when your family calls and asks you to join them on a trip. Those things don't have to be frivolous. If you've planned for them, they can be part of what your money was intended to accomplish. A Different Kind of Resolution

As the new year approaches, most financial resolutions sound something like, “I need to save more.” And saving more can certainly be a good goal. But perhaps there's another question worth adding to the list: “What am I saving for?” If you don't know the answer, it may be time to take a closer look at your financial plan. Your investments should have a purpose. Your retirement strategy should support the life you VIEWO N M AGAZ INE | Novem ber - D ec emb e r 2026 | 65

want to live. Your wealth should reflect the things that matter most to you and your family. Because at the end of the day, the goal isn't to have the biggest account balance. It's to have the freedom and confidence to use your resources well. This holiday season, enjoy the gifts you give, the meals you share, and the people sitting around your table. Those moments are a good reminder that money is ultimately a means to an end. The best financial plan isn't necessarily the one that helps you accumulate the most. It's the one that helps you make the most of what you've accumulated. From all of us at Financial Concepts, we wish you and your family a wonderful holiday season and a new year filled with meaningful moments, generous hearts, and a financial plan that helps make both possible.V This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be specific investment advice. Ron Bird and Andrew Bird are owners/agents with Financial Concepts Retirement Planning and can be reached at (702) 346-7025. Visit www.FCRPInsurance.com for more information.

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Dreams Grow, Too

The Village at Adobe Mesa began as one man’s dream with the loving encouragement of his wife. It later became a family project and a promise to create a place where Mesquite could gather, connect, and build new memories. Submitted by SANNA Creative

hen we are children and someone asks what we want to be when we grow up, the answers usually come easily: a doctor, firefighter, teacher, architect, police officer—sometimes even an astronaut. Almost no one answers, “I want to be an entrepreneur—to build something

of my own, create jobs, and help my community grow.” Perhaps we do not say it because we cannot yet understand everything that this dream requires: years of work, difficult decisions, and the courage to move forward when the outcome cannot be seen. Few accept that responsibility.

George Creamer did not say he wanted to become an entrepreneur, either. He became a police officer, but eventually began imagining what he would do after retirement.

open a sports bar.

His dream sounded simple:

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Not a loud establishment dominated by gaming and cigarette smoke, but a warm, casual place where the people of Mesquite could eat, enjoy sports, and stay a little longer with family and friends. George and his wife, Mindy, looked at different locations, but none felt right. Then they arrived at an open lot at Falcon Ridge Parkway and Hardy Way. Where others might have seen only dirt, they saw occupied tables, families sharing a meal, sports fans celebrating, and neighbors meeting at the end of the day. When they shared the idea with Mindy’s father, Stan Robbins, a commercial real estate broker, and his wife, Lyn, conversations became possibilities and then plans. George and Mindy’s sports bar was becoming something larger.

That was the beginning of

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GIVING THE DREAM A PLACE TO LIVE

Local architect Matt Metcalf translated the vision into a physical design, and Parkway Construction was selected as general contractor. SANNA Creative joined the journey to give the project an identity and voice. Jackson Contracting will help with tenant improvements. Together, we began looking beyond the buildings and imagining the life that would unfold within them. The Village will feature outdoor gathering areas, a shared fireplace, and designated parking for golf carts and sideby-sides—invitations to arrive, slow down, and stay. The Donkey History Museum is among the first destinations welcoming visitors and will host its annual Donkey Jamboree in March.

A FAMILY BEHIND THE VISION

When Mindy and George came to SANNA Creative, they didn't bring us just a commercial development. They entrusted us with the story of a family dream and the responsibility of helping that dream find its voice. George remains involved in the design, construction, and daily work at the site. Stan contributes his commercial real estate experience, while Mindy draws on her background in sales and marketing. Mindy and George are owners of The Village and The Drift. Stan and Lyn are also owners of both projects. Cal Gallegos, George’s former law-enforcement partner in Los Angeles, has joined The Drift as a partner.

At the heart of George’s dream is The Drift, a wood-fired pizza restaurant and sports bar expected to open in January. It will bring together sports, live music, trivia, and game nights. The Creamers also want it to support boys’ and girls’ athletic programs at Virgin Valley High School. Other concepts continue moving forward: a real estate office, an upscale cigar and bourbon lounge, and a Mediterranean restaurant. The goal is a thoughtful mix of local, regional, and national businesses. As of September, there are still units available to fill.

Yet this story extends beyond the names on the project documents. In a more personal way, The Village also belongs to those who have grown alongside the dream. George and Mindy have three children: McKenna, 30, who is married to Ben, and two sons, Cal, 23, and Gage, 20. The kids have watched Mindy and George move from talking about what they might do “someday” to bringing it to life. They have witnessed the risks, long days, and small victories rarely visible behind a construction project. Sometimes growing up means returning to a dream that once seemed far away and showing our children that it is never too late to begin. For this family, The Village is also a legacy: a place where their children can gather and know that part of their story will always live in Mesquite. Even Barley, their 11-year-old German shepherd, has accompanied them through this chapter—a reminder that great dreams are also made of the people and everyday moments that stay beside us. The owners are not distant investors watching from another city. They live here. They pass the construction site, hear their neighbors’ questions, and understand that every decision will become part of their own community. VIEWO N M AGAZ INE | Novem ber - D ec emb e r 2026 | 69

COMMUNICATION IS PART OF BUILDING “We are putting our heart and soul into this project,” Mindy says. “Not just for us, but for the entire Mesquite community.”

Today, machinery and tools shape the soundscape at Falcon Ridge Parkway and Hardy Way. Soon, those sounds will give way to conversations, music, and laughter as the place this family imagined begins filling with stories that are no longer theirs alone. Perhaps growing up means understanding that our most important dreams rarely belong entirely to us. They begin with one person, find an echo in a family, and gain meaning when a community can make them its own. Buildings rise from materials and plans. Communities are built from trust, encounters, and shared memories. The Village at Adobe Mesa will be truly complete when one family’s dream becomes a place where Mesquite can dream, too.V The Village at Adobe Mesa is located at 1225 Hardy Way in Mesquite, Nevada. For more information, visit their website: www.thevillageam.com. For leasing information, email leasing@thevillageam.com.

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Announces Inaugural Awards Ceremony

Honoring Inspirational Women by Jean Watkins

lease mark your calendars. On January 23, 2027, WoMMA (Women of Mesquite, Moapa Valley, and Arizona Strip) will host its very first Inspirational Women Awards Ceremony at the CasaBlanca in Mesquite. This is a brand-new community event celebrating women who’ve worked in the past or are working now to make our corner of the desert such a welcoming and remarkable place. For years, women from many organizations have worked quietly behind the scenes, supporting women's causes and initiatives throughout our region. Now, WoMMA is stepping into the spotlight with an event designed to do something we don't do often enough: publicly recognize the neighbors, volunteers, caregivers, mentors, and everyday heroes among us who rarely get thanked. This isn't just an awards luncheon. It's a celebration of the character that holds a small community together—the woman who organizes the food pantry, the one who drives her neighbor to chemo, the teacher who stays late, the volunteer who's shown up for 30 years without asking for credit. On January 23, we will finally get to say their names. We finally get to see them, learn a little about them, and join their family and friends in celebrating their achievements.

HERE'S HOW YOU CAN BE PART OF IT:

Buy your tickets early. Seats for this inaugural event are expected to go quickly, and every ticket purchased helps continue WoMMA's community outreach. It also brings us one step closer to achieving its long-term goal of publishing a book that recognizes unforgettable women in our region so their stories are not forgotten.

Advertise in the program book. This is a wonderful and affordable way for local businesses to reach an engaged, community-minded audience while showing support for a cause that matters. While only a few women will win a WoMMA award in January, photos of all 47 nominees will be featured in the program book. The program will become a keepsake to be shared long after the event ends and will give businesses visibility well beyond one evening. Ad sizes range from business cards all the way to a full-page, full-color spread. Make a donation. Not everyone can attend, but every gift— large or small—goes directly toward honoring these women and eventually publishing a book about them. The ceremony is meant to be the first of many that will help us reach our goal, and your support now helps establish a strong foundation for the future. Events like this don't happen without the support of the community. Whether you buy a ticket, sponsor an ad in the program book, or simply spread the word to a friend, you're helping make sure the women who quietly hold our community together finally get their moment. Save the date— January 23, 2027, at the CasaBlanca in Mesquite—and watch for more details in the coming weeks. This is one celebration you won't want to miss.V For tickets, ad space, or donation information, please contact WoMMA at hello.womma@gmail.com. WoMMA is a taxexempt organization, EIN 41-2913560. Their mailing address is P.O. Box 324, Mesquite, Nevada 89024.

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view on THE ARTS

Twinkling Tinsel Talent Show

Brings Holiday Cheer—and Plenty of Glitter— by Mariclare Hulbert | Photo credits: Alan Holben

t’s time to crank the holiday cheer all the way up to EXTRA.

This December, the Twinkling Tinsel Talent Show returns for its fourth year, bringing together some of Washington County’s most entertaining, unexpected, and enthusiastic performers. Come enjoy festive nights of music, comedy, dance, specialty acts, and holiday mayhem—all in support of the arts in southern Utah. This year, the Twinkling Tinsel Talent Show is both a celebration and a fundraiser, with proceeds benefiting two organizations dedicated to keeping the performing arts vibrant and accessible in the region: Kayenta Arts and The Stage Door theater company.

The Twinkling Tinsel Talent Show gathers local singers, dancers, comedians, drag artists, and all-around show-offs for campy classics, unexpected mash-ups, heartfelt moments, and plenty of laughs.

festive creation speaks to you. Come ready to cheer loudly, laugh hard, embrace the wonderfully weird, and celebrate the creative talent right here in southern Utah.

Three acts will be selected from each preliminary evening to advance to the Twinkling Tinsel Finale, where performers will compete for a $1,000 Grand Prize and a $500 Audience Choice Award. Last year, local singer Preslee Heppler and Elevation Jive Kristmas Kookies Dance Group took home top prizes.

“The Twinkling Tinsel Talent Show is a chance for our community to come together, celebrate local artists, and give ourselves permission to be a little overthe-top,” says Miranda Wright, Executive Director of Kayenta Arts. “It’s joyful, it’s wonderfully unpredictable, and at the heart of it, it’s about supporting the arts organizations and artists who make southern Utah such a vibrant place to live.”

The audience dress code? The more holiday flair, the better. Think ugly sweater, glamorous elf, full-on snow queen, holiday maximalist, or whatever

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One thing is certain: there will be tinsel.V

to Southern Utah Event Details Dates: December 15-18, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. Location: Lorraine Boccardo Theater at the Center for the Arts at Kayenta located at 881 Coyote Gulch Court in Ivins, Utah Tickets: $20-$25 Website: kayentaarts.org About the Beneficiaries Located in Ivins, the Center for the Arts at Kayenta serves the region through performances, exhibitions, classes, workshops, and community programs. Kayenta Arts creates opportunities for artists and audiences to experience the arts in all forms and take new adventures in a uniquely beautiful setting. The Stage Door, based in St. George and operating out of the historic Electric Theater, seeks to inspire, educate, and transform aspiring theater artists while providing resources, training, support, and performance opportunities for both amateur and professional performers.

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Discover the Importance of Donkeys at mesquite's

"Either all donkeys matter, or none of them do" - Mark Meyers, Museum Founder by Toni Wehus

he Donkey History Museum in Mesquite, Nevada, is a free family attraction dedicated to celebrating the historical and cultural contributions of donkeys to human civilization and the building of the United States. The Donkey History Museum was established in November of 2022 as a division of Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue, the largest donkey rescue in the world. The founders, Mark and Amy Meyers, who started with one donkey as a friend to their horse, learned about the plight of donkeys and turned the rescue into their life's work. They have created a place to learn how donkeys have shaped this country for centuries. It is a learning experience you will never forget! The museum features several distinct galleries filled with donated memorabilia, vintage photographs, artifacts, and artwork. Explore the Gold Rush Gallery, Americana Gallery, and the Military Gallery, which features The Wall of Heroes, where guests can fill out a small card with their military experience. We will take a picture and post it on The Wall of Heroes. We feature a 35-foot Kids Corral with AI-inspired activities called Draw Alive, Animated Sandbox, Dynamic Floor, and more. We have two theatres running continuously, and the Sluice is a favorite attraction for all ages where you can pan for real gems, fossils, geodes, shark teeth, and arrowheads.

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Our annual Donkey Jamboree is the second Saturday in March. We have live donkeys for this event only as well as vendors, raffles, food trucks, etc. Our founders, Mark and Amy, make a special appearance to greet our visitors. It is a much-loved tradition in Mesquite. We have visitors from all over the world come to enjoy our museum. We offer free coffee and reusable aluminum water bottles for our guests.V The Donkey History Museum and Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue do not receive government funding. We are supported by donations and purchases in our gift shop. We have moved to a beautiful new location, The Village at Adobe Mesa, 1225 Hardy Way, Suite C in Mesquite. We are open seven days a week, including holidays, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call (702) 346-2538 or visit Donkeyhistory.com. We are also on Facebook.

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Connecting Through Creativity:

Mesquite’s New Initiative Empowers Local Seniors by Gerri Chasco, Steve Dudrow, Michelle Timmons, and Terri Fitzsimmons

etting older brings wisdom and free time, but it can also bring unexpected shifts—retirement, quiet homes, or losing touch with daily social routines. Mesquite is tackling those challenges head-on with a vibrant new effort: the Creative Aging Initiative. Designed to boost well-being, foster connection, and ignite imagination, this multi-agency partnership is bringing creative arts, lifelong learning, and vital wellness resources directly to local seniors.

A Community Working Together The Creative Aging Initiative brings together key organizations across Mesquite to build a strong safety net of support and engagement. To kick off the initiative, it hosted a welcoming afternoon with ice cream and swag bags filled with community resources. Volunteers in red and white served participants seated at tables, which were also garnished with red and white decorations. Over 10 agencies were present, including the library and Canyon Home Care and Hospice, each

with their own table. Seniors lined up to get information; it was a time of connection and collaboration. · The Mesquite Senior Center serves as the central hub for activities, daily connection, and program hosting. Every Tuesday at 10 a.m., seniors meet at the center to enjoy free coffee and cookies. It is essential for seniors to get out of the house and meet others. In October, seniors enjoyed a historic bus drive, with a host informing passengers about the history of Mesquite. · The Mesquite Library provides educational tools, creative workshops, media resources, and accessible space. · Mesquite Suicide Prevention and Behavioral Health Advocates offer mental wellness tools, emotional support, and practical crisis resources. · Local Community Partners unite civic groups and volunteers to ensure every senior stays connected and valued. · Creative Aging Initiative Speaker Series: Every third Tuesday of the month

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at the Mesquite Art Gallery, seniors enjoy a brown bag lunch while listening to distinguished speakers discussing topics relevant to aging. On September 15, Susan Schultz discussed the process of aging, and Linda Rino spoke about isolation and suicide prevention. Cherly Kilken, Ms. Senior Mesquite Queen, talked about strokes and how they affect the brain. Sandy Tudor will be the guest speaker for December. She will be discussing the advantages of staying active, both physically and mentally, and, of course, the Senior Games. Jean Watkins has also collaborated with the Creative Aging Initiative. She has created a much-needed website: eventsinMesquite.com. It includes all the events and planned restaurant visits, including fast-food places, for the coming year. The response from the seniors has been overwhelming. Thanks to all those agencies who have shared their resources, the Creative Aging Initiative is off to a great start.V

OUTSMART HOLIDAY THIEVES & FRAUDSTERS

with a few simple tips by Sergeant Jaime Stout

he holiday season is a special time in Mesquite. Families gather, neighbors exchange gifts, and many of us spend more time shopping, traveling, and enjoying community events. Unfortunately, the holidays can also create opportunities for theft and fraud. As police officers, we encourage everyone to take a few simple precautions to help keep the season safe and enjoyable.

Keep Your Home and Vehicle Secure Whether you are shopping across town or traveling for several days, remember the basics. Lock your vehicle, close the windows, and keep shopping bags, gifts, purses, electronics, and other valuables out of sight. At home, lock doors and windows and avoid leaving boxes from expensive gifts prominently displayed outside.

Protect Your Packages Online shopping makes the holidays more convenient, but packages left unattended on a porch can be an easy target. Track deliveries whenever possible and arrange to have packages brought inside promptly. If you will not be home, consider using a secure delivery location or asking a trusted neighbor to collect your packages. Doorbell and security cameras can also serve as useful deterrents.

If you are traveling, consider asking a trusted friend or neighbor to keep an eye on your property. Timers on interior lights can also help make an empty home appear occupied.

Watch for Holiday Scams Scammers often take advantage of the generosity and urgency that come with the holiday season. Be cautious of unexpected phone calls, emails, or text messages claiming you owe money, have won a prize, or need to act immediately to resolve a problem. Requests for payment using gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or other unusual methods should be a major warning sign. Also be careful when donating to charities. Before giving, take a moment to verify that the organization is legitimate. Never feel pressured into making an immediate donation or providing personal or financial information.

Stay Alert While Shopping Holiday shopping areas can become busy and distracting. Pay attention to your surroundings, keep purses and wallets secure, and don’t leave purchases unattended. When walking through parking lots at night, stay in well-lit areas and have your keys ready before reaching your vehicle. Look Out for One Another One of Mesquite's greatest strengths is our community. If something looks suspicious, don't ignore it. Reporting unusual activity can help officers address a problem before someone becomes a victim. In an emergency, always call 911. For nonemergency concerns, contact the Mesquite Police Department. A few simple precautions can make a significant difference. From all of us at the Mesquite Police Department, we wish you and your family a safe, happy, and peaceful holiday season.V VIEWO N M AGAZ INE | Novem ber - D ec emb e r 2026 | 77

YEAR-END REMINDER : Are You Up to Date on Your Preventative Screenings? by Matthew Brockway, D.O., Internal Medicine and Hospitalist Physician

s the end of 2026 approaches, the final few months include many cancer awareness observances. Take a few moments to review your health and make sure you’re current on recommended preventive screenings.

BREAST CANCER SCREENING

Many cancers develop quietly without symptoms. By the time warning signs appear, treatment may be more complex. That’s why preventive screenings are so important. They help detect disease early when it is often easier to treat, and outcomes are generally better.

Women should talk with their healthcare provider about when to begin mammography and how often screening is recommended. Your age, family history, and personal risk factors all play a role in determining the right schedule.

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Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women. Mammograms can often detect cancer before a lump can be felt or symptoms develop.

COLON CANCER SCREENING

Colon cancer screening is one of the few preventive tests that can actually help stop cancer before it starts. A colonoscopy can identify and remove precancerous polyps before they become cancerous, while other screening methods, such as stool-based tests, also help detect cancer early. Because colon cancer often develops with few or no symptoms in its early stages, screening is essential. Many adults should begin routine screening at age 45, although

some individuals may need to start earlier based on family history or other risk factors.

PROSTATE CANCER SCREENING

Prostate cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer among men in America behind lung cancer. In its early stages, it often causes no symptoms at all, and many men who develop prostate cancer feel completely healthy. By the time symptoms appear, treatment is often more complicated and may involve other areas of the body. VIEWO N M AGAZ INE | Novem ber - D ec emb e r 2026 | 79

A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is a simple blood test that can help identify potential concerns before symptoms develop. Men at average risk should talk with their provider about screening beginning at age 50. African American men and those with a strong family history of prostate cancer or known BRCA mutations may benefit from testing that begins around age 45. An elevated PSA result does not necessarily mean cancer is present, but it can help identify who may need additional evaluation.

MAKE PREVENTION A PRIORITY

Preventive screenings are one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your long-term health. Depending on your insurance deductible status this year, completing recommended screenings before your benefits reset may provide additional financial advantages. Before the year ends, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider to review the screenings appropriate for your age, gender, health history, and individual risk factors.

DON’T WAIT FOR SYMPTOMS

Talk with your primary care provider about the screenings recommended for you. Whether it’s a mammogram, colon cancer screening, PSA test, or another preventive service, taking that step is one of the most important things you can do to protect your health.V Ready to schedule an appointment? Visit MesaViewAnytime.com or call Mesa View Medical Group at (702) 346-0800.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Dr. Brockway is a board-certified internal medicine physician who works as a hospitalist and is a member of the medical staff at Mesa View Regional Hospital. Dr. Brockway is also accepting new patients at Mesa View Medical Group, an independent affiliate. About Mesa View Regional Hospital Mesa View Regional Hospital is a 25-bed critical access hospital located in Mesquite, Nevada, that provides a range of inpatient and outpatient hospital services, including acute care, intensive care, emergency, surgery, cardiac rehabilitation, orthopedics, swing-bed, pulmonary, wound care, infusion therapy, laboratory, pain management, and diagnostic imaging. For more information, visit MesaViewHospital.com.

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view on PETS

the

Holidays

According to Your Pets by Anita DeLelles

ecember is a month of strange behavior, according to the average household pet.

Suddenly, the living room contains a tree you’re not allowed to climb. Packages appear at the door. The kitchen smells like roast beef and cinnamon and is filled with things that are “not for pets.” Strangers come in and out, and children seem extra wound up. And then, one morning, there are presents.

The Holiday Guests Dog: Excellent! Everyone has come to see me. Cat: Absolutely not.

A house full of guests can be the highlight of the season for a social dog. There are laps to sit on, hands to sniff, and children to entertain.

To us, it’s the holidays. To our dogs and cats, it’s the greatest, and occasionally the most confusing, month of the year.

Cats often have a different strategy. One minute they're on the sofa; the next, they've disappeared. You may not see them again until breakfast.

The Christmas Tree

And that's perfectly fine.

Dog: Yes, an indoor forest!

Cat: Finally, a climbing challenge. Humans seem preoccupied with the tree, although their rules are confusing. You may sniff it, but not too much. The shiny ornaments are apparently “not toys,” and whatever you do, don't touch the lights. Cats have their own interpretation. The tree is tall, has dangling objects, and is full of good smells. Clearly, it was installed for my entertainment. So it becomes our job to keep fragile ornaments, ribbons, tinsel, and electrical cords away from curious pets and to make sure the tree is securely anchored. 82 | VIEW ON MAGA Z I N E | N ov e m b e r - D e c e m b e r 2 0 2 6

Give pets a quiet retreat with a familiar bed, food, and water. A little peace can help a nervous dog or independent cat deal with the holiday commotion.

The Presents Dog: At last. Recognition for my contributions to this family. Cat: I assume this box is for me.

Dogs may not understand Christmas morning, but they understand wrapping paper. Cats understand boxes. A new toy, cozy bed, scratching post, or special treat can make a wonderful gift. But sometimes the best present doesn't come in a box; our pets enjoy an extra walk, a favorite game, or simply more time together.

The Holiday Feast Dog: I have never seen these people waste so much food. Cat: I would like to inspect your plate.

Holiday meals can be challenging for curious pets. Rich, fatty foods and certain ingredients can be dangerous, so keep the holiday buffet under human supervision. Instead, set aside an appropriate pet-safe treat before dinner. Your pet can enjoy something special while the humans enjoy their meal.

The Holiday Photo Dog: I am ready for my close-up. Cat: You have three seconds.

Every family needs a holiday photo, but the perfect picture isn't worth making an animal uncomfortable. Keep costumes comfortable, and let your pet leave when they've had enough. The best pictures are often unscripted anyway: a sleepy dog beneath the tree, a cat curled inside a gift box, or a curious nose beneath the dinner table.

The Best Part of the Holidays

Pets don't care whether presents are perfectly wrapped or holiday cards went out on time. Dogs care that their people are around. Cats may pretend they don't care, but they notice, too. They care about familiar voices, extra time on the couch, walks, warm blankets, and the feeling that something special is happening. Maybe this is the real secret of the season. So while you're making lists and checking them twice, take a moment to see the holidays through your pets' eyes. The tree is tempting. The house smells amazing. There are chewable packages everywhere. The dog thinks it's wonderful. The cat is reserving judgment. And best of all, their people are home. For both of them, that's probably a pretty perfect holiday.V Discover more ways to keep your pets happy and healthy at WOOF! Wellness Center & Training Academy in the Santa Clara Historic District. The center is open Monday through Saturday. Call (435) 275-4536 or visit www.woofcenter.com.

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view on FITNESS

Try Some

Anti-Inflammatory Holiday Recipes by Ashley Centers

ello again, readers, and happy holidays!

For the last few years, we have been offering healthy alternative recipes for holiday meals, and I’d like to give a little background on why we love to do this! Several years ago, I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that is also a rheumatological arthritis condition called Ankylosing Spondylitis. This disease is inflammatory in nature, and we found out very quickly that my body sometimes responds to different foods in not great ways and that limiting inflammatory foods means my body feels and functions much better. So I started swapping a few things here and there to keep eating my favorite foods, and the holiday meals have been a wonderful place to explore swaps or new recipes altogether. While you may not have a chronic condition that needs managing through nutrition as I do, everyone can enjoy the benefits of eating lower-inflammation alternatives.

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Inflammatory foods can cause:

• • • • •

Digestive issues: bloating, gas, cramps, and diarrhea. Joint and muscle pain: aches and stiffness, especially for people with arthritis. Fatigue and brain fog: constant tiredness and trouble focusing. Skin problems: acne flare-ups, redness, or eczema. Headaches: frequent tension headaches or migraines.

Inflammatory foods can include:

• • • • •

Added sugars: soda, candy, and baked goods that spike blood sugar. Refined carbs: white bread, white rice, and pastries. Trans and saturated fats: fried foods, margarine, and fast food. Processed meats: hot dogs, sausage, and bacon. Excess alcohol: drinks that stress the liver and raise inflammatory markers.

As you can see, this list leaves lots of room for substitutions in our everyday lives and definitely at the holidays. So here are a few healthier, lower-inflammation options for your holiday table.

My mom and I almost always have cinnamon rolls for breakfast on Thanksgiving so we can eat before cooking for the rest of the day. Most of the time, we just used prepackaged rolls but have found a much healthier alternative that causes less inflammatory pain later.

Cinnamon Rolls Ingredients Dough: 2 cups almond or gluten-free flour blend 2 eggs 2 tbsp. coconut oil 2 tbsp. maple syrup 1 tsp. baking powder

Filling: 2 tbsp. coconut sugar 1 tbsp. cinnamon 1 tbsp. coconut oil

Icing: 1 cup vanilla Greek yogurt 2 tbsp. maple syrup 1 tsp. vanilla extract 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

Instructions Dough: 1. In a large bowl, combine dough ingredients and mix until they are smooth. 2. Lay out parchment paper on the countertop. 3. Place dough on parchment paper, and place another piece of parchment on top. 4. Roll out dough between parchment sheets. 5. Remove the top piece of parchment.

Filling: 1. In a separate bowl, combine your filling ingredients until well mixed (you can also add a tbsp. of pumpkin puree for a seasonal pumpkin treat). 2. Spread the filling evenly onto rolled-out dough. 3. Using the bottom sheet of parchment, roll up the dough and filling tightly. 4. Slice rolled filling and dough into manageably-sized rolls. 5. Bake at 350°F for 15–19 minutes.

Icing: 1. Combine yogurt, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon in a bowl. 2. Whisk until completely smooth and combined. 3. Pour over warm cinnamon rolls. 4. Serve warm.

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Mashed Cauliflower - instead of mashed potatoes -

Ingredients:

1 large head of cauliflower (cut into florets) 3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil 2 cloves garlic, minced Pinch of salt Pinch of black pepper

Instructions:

1. Boil or steam cauliflower florets in salted water for about 10 minutes until they are fork-tender. 2. Drain the cauliflower, pressing it gently with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to remove extra moisture. 3. Warm olive oil in a small pan over medium-low heat, and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. 4. Place the dried cauliflower and warm garlic olive oil into a food processor or back into the warm pan. Use the processor or an immersion blender for a smooth purée, or hand mash if you prefer. 5. Stir in a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, and top with fresh herbs if preferred (you can also use a dollop of plain Greek yogurt for creaminess as well).

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Roasted Veggies with Turmeric and Black Pepper Turmeric is anti-inflammatory in nature and very useful in many recipes!

Ingredients:

1 cup cauliflower florets 1 cup regular sweet potato cut into chunks 1 cup purple sweet potato cut into chunks (purple adds a nice splash of color and anthocyanins for chronic joint pain) 1 cup butternut squash, cut into chunks 3 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil 1 to 1 1/2 teaspoons ground turmeric 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Pinch of black pepper Pinch of sea salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). 2. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. 3. Cut your chosen vegetables into uniform, bite-sized chunks so they cook evenly. 4. In a small bowl, whisk the oil, turmeric, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper together. 5. Mix the vegetables in a large bowl with the oil and spice mixture until every piece is lightly coated. 6. Spread the vegetables onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer with space left between the pieces. 7. Roast the vegetables for approximately 25 to 35 minutes. 8. Stir halfway through cooking time. 9. Roast until tender and lightly crispy at the edges. As you can see, there are lots of options for foods that don’t inflame or inflame less than traditional holiday dishes. I hope you try these new recipes and that your holidays are healthy, fun, and filled with all that you love. Happiest holidays to you all! Your friend in fitness, AshV

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by Gary Trask

A Season Worth Savoring

s the holidays approach, there’s something especially inviting about a restaurant that makes dinner feel like an occasion.

Gregory's, the signature restaurant at Eureka Casino Resort, is perfectly built for the holiday season. A classic parlour bar, casual club room, and four private dining rooms are the quiet advantage this time of year. Company dinners, family gatherings, milestone celebrations, and quick couples getaways all land better in a room of your own. 88 | VIEW ON MAGA Z I N E | N ov e m b e r - D e c e m b e r 2 0 2 6

This holiday season also marks an exciting new chapter for Gregory’s. The restaurant’s expanded remodel is now complete, with a refreshed space that fully captures the dark, warm, and unhurried feeling of an earlier era of steakhouse glamour. The hospitality is the same that guests have counted on for years. Nobody rushes you out, and that is worth as much as anything on the plate. It's the wood that makes it good This is how Eureka CEO Andre Carrier describes the kitchen.

The mesquite wood flavor goes much further than the steaks. It is in the smoked meatballs, made in-house and ordered by most tables as a perfect start to the meal. It is even in the Old Fashioned at the parlour bar, smoked to order. The wine list, Greg's List, was selected by Eureka founder Gregory Lee himself, which is not something most restaurants can say. Running the kitchen is Chef Aaron Murphy, Gregory's head chef since 2019, who got here through a route almost no one takes anymore. He worked his way up one job at a time, from line cook, sous chef, and executive sous chef, before landing at Eureka and taking over Gregory's. Recently, Chef Murphy was nominated for The Best of the Southwest’s firstever Southwest Chef Series. Two specials worth the trip Murphy builds a new chef's special every month, and the two on deck are made for the season. A good way to open the holiday season is with November’s Parmesan Crusted Salmon—a tender filet with a house-made parmesan crust finished with a lemon beurre blanc. December features the Steak Florentine, a 48-ounce porterhouse, grilled and sliced to medium rare, then finished at your table on a sizzling lava stone. It is meant to be shared, but whether you share it or not is between you and the porterhouse.

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The regulars The variety of the permanent menu keeps people coming back time and again. Steakhouse classics include slow-roasted prime rib, filet, and a New York strip, but the contemporary dishes like Mediterranean Sea Bass, Honey Lavender Chicken, Braised Short Rib with Pappardelle, and Seafood Diablo give regulars plenty of reasons to try something different. Then there is the GMG Signature Burger, which locals will tell you about whether you ask or not. Prime rib and brisket are blended into the patty, which is topped with Gouda, an in-house white barbecue sauce, fried onions, and bacon—all served on a branded bun with black truffle fries. No lettuce, no tomato, and the kitchen will not be talked into adding them either. Ringing in 2027 And when the final night of the year arrives, Gregory’s offers a memorable way to say goodbye to 2026. Enjoy dinner and drinks before raising a glass to 2027. Whether New Year’s Eve is an annual tradition or you simply want to make this year’s celebration feel special, Gregory’s provides the food, atmosphere, and entertainment for a night worth remembering. Make room in the calendar this season. Come for the steak, the seafood, and a smoked Old Fashioned at the parlour bar. Stay because nobody at the table is in a hurry to leave. The holiday season goes fast. Slow down and enjoy it at Gregory’s.V

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view on GOLF

Gifts for the Golfer in Your Life

by Rob Krieger

round the holidays, every golfer looks at their game, equipment, clothing, etc., and starts exploring what they need to look and play better on the course in the new year. Ideas for what to get a player as a gift to help them look and feel better about their golf game can be overwhelming, especially if you don't know much about the sport. Additionally, players can have very specific and/or particular needs and wants. To help make the gift-giving process a little easier, here are a few ideas to get a great reaction from your golfer when they open their gift. CLOTHING - Golfers always love new clothing outfits to look their best on the course. Coordinating colors of shirts, shorts, skorts, belts, shoes, and hats are sure to get them compliments. Getting someone’s size right is difficult, so you may have to put on your sleuthing hat to find out what brands and sizes will fit, but it will be worth it. Popular brands and styles are regularly worn by professionals on TV or in golf magazines. Additional attire options include pullovers, vests, jackets, caps, visors, socks, sunglasses, and rain gear to cover the different weather they may experience while playing. TECHNOLOGY - When it comes to golf technology, there may be something they don’t want to buy for themselves but would really love to have. Consider laser range finders, digital scorecard apps, GPS golf course programs for watches or phones, Bluetooth speakers, or portable launch monitors. Golf pro shops have some great options and can recommend the most popular and reliable options. EQUIPMENT - Equipment can be challenging because there are so many options out there, and trying to get something for a golfer’s particular need can leave you with your head spinning and possibly just wasting money. Consider buying something local in case it is the wrong item, not a good fit, or just doesn’t work for their game. It can usually be returned, exchanged, or possibly even ordered. Local shops should handle the return easily and assist with obtaining the correct item, usually in quick fashion. Having a golfer go through a custom club fitting for irons, drivers, wedges, and putters ensures a correct fit and is a good opportunity to improve their game and performance.

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There are other popular equipment options besides golf clubs. Upgraded golf bags, push/pull carts, items for their golf cart, umbrellas, golf balls, tees, ball markers, and pitch mark fixers are available, just to name a few. For example, check the condition of their current golf bag and assess features like pockets or space. Do they want a carry bag or a bigger bag that would fit on a golf cart? Cart bags that go on carts are usually bigger and heavier than ones made to be carried. The carry bags usually have legs, so they are easier to pick up. Yes, colors make a huge difference in the bag selection process. A golf bag’s color or patterns can be attractive as well as functional for playing. You can even consider the player’s favorite sports team in their collegiate or professional colors. With enough notice, special ordering a bag with a person’s name on it creates a personal and thoughtful touch. GIFT CERTIFICATES FOR LESSONS - My personal favorite is gift certificates for golf lessons. They are sure to get used and are very much appreciated. People can spend a lot of money on equipment to get better but shortchange themselves by not getting help. Investing in lessons to improve performance can make all the difference for long-term success. Sometimes people steer away from the gift of lessons because they feel like they are telling someone they are not a good player, but that is not the case. You are letting them know you understand the game is hard and have heard how they enjoy playing but struggle from time to time. FYI, all golfers struggle. The gift of professional instruction shows your support. The opportunity to receive expert advice from a golf professional can be an excellent way for them to have a better playing experience. Lessons from their local PGA professional are more personal, more tailored to their specific needs, and will keep them on the path toward improvement. Finally, golf instruction tailored to a person’s specific body type, mobility, flexibility, strength, or injuries can be one of the best ways to help them find the enjoyment they may have lost. Have a great gift-giving season and, as always… Fairways & Greens!V Rob Krieger, PGA rob@sgugolf.com www.stgeorgegolflessons.com

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Don’t Wait Until January By Judi Moreo

omething peculiar happens in mid-December— we quit.

Not officially, of course. We still go to work, buy groceries, answer emails, attend parties, wrap presents, and do everything the holidays require. But when it comes to the things we have been meaning to do for ourselves, we quietly declare the year over. “I’ll start in January.” We say it about exercising. We say it about writing the book. We say it about taking the class. We say it about organizing the office, changing jobs, starting the business, calling the person we miss, getting our finances in order, or finally doing something about the dream that has been tapping us on the shoulder all year. January has somehow become the official month for becoming a better person. Poor January. That's an awful lot of responsibility for one month. What if we stopped waiting? What if January 1 isn't the starting line? What if December is? There are 31 days in December. That's nearly nine percent of an entire year. Yet we often treat those days as though they don't count. They count. 94 | VIEW ON MAGA Z I N E | N ov e m b e r - D e c e m b e r 2 0 2 6

You may not transform your entire life before the ball drops in Times Square, but you can certainly change its direction. You can write the first page. You can make the phone call. You can sign up for the class. You can clean out one drawer. You can walk around the block. You can open the savings account. You can make the appointment you've been avoiding. You can apologize. You can forgive. You can say, “I love you.” You can say, “No more.” You can say, “I'm ready.” We often think change requires a dramatic beginning. A new year. A new month. A Monday morning. The perfect plan. The right circumstances. It doesn't. Change usually begins in a much less impressive way. It begins with one decision followed by one action. Years ago, I learned something that has served me well throughout my life: you don't have to know exactly how you'll accomplish something before you begin. You simply have to be willing to take the next step. That's where we get ourselves into trouble. We want to see the entire staircase before we'll put our foot on the first step. Life rarely works that way.

Sometimes you take one step, and then you can see the next one. Then another. And another. Eventually, you look back and discover you've traveled farther than you ever imagined. The holidays are a wonderful time to think about this because December naturally makes us look backward. What happened this year? What did I accomplish? What didn't I accomplish? Where did I grow? Where did I get stuck? What did I keep promising myself I would do “someday”? Those are good questions. But there's one question I think is even better: what can I do about it today? Not next year. Not after the decorations come down. Not when life settles down, because if you've lived long enough, you already know that life has absolutely no intention of settling down. Start today. Perhaps there is something you've wanted to do for years, but you've convinced yourself it's too late. Too late to start a business. Too late to learn to paint. Too late to write a book. Too late to travel. Too late to change careers. Too late to fall in love. Too late to become the person you've always thought you could be. I don't believe much in “too late.” I believe in “not yet.” There's a tremendous difference. “Too late” closes the door. “Not yet” leaves it open. And sometimes all it takes to walk through that door is a little courage and the willingness to begin before you feel completely ready. You don't need to overhaul your life during the holidays. In fact, please don't. December already has enough pressure. Choose one thing you have been putting off. Then ask yourself, “What is the smallest action I could take toward it before this day is over?” Take that action. Tomorrow, take another. By January 1, something interesting will have happened. Instead of standing at the starting line making another resolution, you'll already be moving. And momentum is far more powerful than a resolution. So enjoy the holidays. Eat the cookies. Sing the songs. Spend time with people you love. Watch that Christmas movie you've already seen fifteen times, and pretend you don't know how it ends. But don't put your life on hold until January. There are still days left this year. Use them. Begin something. Finish something. Change something. Say something. Do something you've been promising yourself you would do because you don't need a new calendar to begin a new chapter. You just need to decide that today is a good enough day to start.V Judi Moreo is an internationally recognized speaker, author, artist, and educator who has spent her career helping people discover what is possible. Through her books, programs, and the Center for Creative Expression in Las Vegas, she encourages others to embrace creativity, take chances, keep growing, and make every chapter of life count. Contact her at judi@thecenterforcreativeexpression.com. VIEWO N M AGAZ INE | Novem ber - D ec emb e r 2026 | 95

BUSINESS CARD DIRECTORY

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BUSINESS CARD DIRECTORY

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BUSINESS CARD DIRECTORY

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ADVERTISING DIRECTORY 3 Bears Air Conditioning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

Mesa View Regional Hospital .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Aaron's Helping Hands Handyman Services . . . . . . . . . . 96

Mesquite Entertainment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Aguilar Mobile Carwash. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Mesquite Fine Arts Center Christmas Boutique. . . . . . . . 14

Aliante Healthcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Mesquite Tile and Flooring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

All Secure Storage, LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Mesquite Veterinary Clinic - Peggy Purner, DVM. . . . . . . . 97

A New View Auto Glass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

Nevada Bank and Trust. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

ArtMapMaker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

NRC - The Elleve. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Beaver Dam Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Odyssey Landscaping. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

C & J Shutters, Blinds and Flooring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Oral & Facial Surgery Institute of Mesquite. . . . . . . . . . . 1

Capella Skincare. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Overton Power District No.5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Canyonlands Healthcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Pilot Wealth Strategies - Nathan Hughes. . . . . . . . . . . . 83

City of Mesquite. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

Polaris Can-Am. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

City of St. George Golf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Red Rock Golf Instruction - Rob Krieger. . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Conestoga Golf Club 1880 Grille. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Reliance Connects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Danielle's Chocolates and Popcorn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Re/Max Ridge Realty - Dave Neufeld. . . . . . . . . . . . 52, 53

Deep Roots Harvest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Back Cover

Retirement HealthCare Advisors - Ashley Centers. . . . . . . 96

ERA - Sharon Szarzi. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Silver Rider . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Eureka Casino Resort - Host Your Holiday. . . . . . . . . . . . 35

Snapshots West Photography. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Eureka Casino Resort - Town Square . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC

Star 1 Landscaping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Farmers Insurance - Bill Mitchell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Stephen's Hair - The Boutique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Financial Concepts Wealth Management . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Store More Self Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Grease Monkey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

The Lindi Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Great Clips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

The Village at Adobe Mesa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

I've Got Enough Heartaches by John Johnson . . . . . . . . 17

Tuacahn Amphitheatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back Cover

Judi Moreo – Speaker, Author, & Coach. . . . . . . . . . . 90, 96

Veterans Day Parade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Kayenta Arts Foundation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Virgin Valley Golf Carts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Keith Holm and Sons Handymen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

WaFd Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

Keller Williams - Cindy Biskup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Washington City Arts Council - Artisan Holiday Market . . . 26

Ken Garff St. George Ford - Dave Heath . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Western Alliance Bank. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Kitchen Encounters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87

Wild Whimsies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

Kris Zurbas Photography. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Woof Center. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95

Lamppost Electric. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97

Yogi Window Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

Medicare and Healthcare Insurance - Team Bundy . . . . . . 80

Zion Eye Institute . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Mesa Ridge Pharmacy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 100 | VIEW ON MAGA Z I N E | N ov e m b e r - D e c e m b e r 2 0 2 6

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November -December 2026

ViewOn Magazine - November-December 2026