mesquite | moapa valley | arizona strip | southern utah
complimentary issue
January 1 - February 28, 2024 Volume 17 – Issue 1 PUBLISHER & EDITOR Kathy Lee MANAGING EDITOR / ART DIRECTOR Erin Eames COPY EDITORS Elisa Eames Rayma Davis COVER IMAGE by Seth Hamel of Enlighten Photography Excursions www.zion-photography.com WRITERS Cayden Adams, Riley Imlay, Donna Eads, Kaylee Pickering, Rob Fuller, Michele Randall, Helen Houston, Ashley Centers, Cliff and Ilene Bandringa, Rob Krieger, Anita DeLelles, Judi Moreo, Nathan Hughes, Karen L. Monsen, Susie Knudsen, Elisa Eames, Bruce R. Bennett, Megan Young, Katie Coleman, Terry Marquart, MacRae Heppler, Linda Faas, Kristin Yantis, Jennifer Jensen, Alisia Leavitt, Kirsten Pope, James Parsons 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 info@ViewOnMagazine.com ONLINE ViewOnMagazine.com Facebook 2007-2024 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
Dear Readers, As the new year begins, many of us are looking ahead to brighter days. I, however, choose to look back at the past year to count my many blessings, which include family, friends, and loved ones who keep me going every day and bring so much joy and happiness to my life. We are entering our 17th year of publishing ViewOn Magazine. In looking back, there have been so many who have contributed to our success. And I am grateful for each and every one of them. Throughout this issue, we have compiled articles about many new businesses and exciting events in the future. From food, housing, and healthcare to education, financial goals, and ways to improve your golf game, this issue has it all. Read about exercising in a gym or on the tennis court, the new and improved St. George Regional Airport, and much, much more. There is a plethora of great information inside these pages. Throughout the past 16 years, ViewOn Magazine has been supported by our amazing advertisers! It is because of them that we have been able to bring you this lovely publication. They continue to believe, as we also do, that ViewOn Magazine is an integral part of our communities. Please make sure to visit and support these local businesses. In these times of strife in the world, I wish for each of us to be filled with loving kindness and to show each other Grace. We may never know the burdens that our friends and neighbors carry in their hearts, so please be kind and gracious to one another. Please make sure to visit our Facebook page and our website at www.ViewOnMagazine.com. Sending you blessings throughout the new year,
Kathy Lee Editor in Chief
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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.
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.
Elisa Eames is a freelance writer and bookkeeper. Her love of creative writing began in the fourth grade when she wrote her first story. She has a bachelor's degree in humanities with a French minor and an accounting certificate. Her other loves include writing stories, running/hiking, acting/singing, and laughing. She can be reached at elmeames@gmail.com.
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.
Linda Faas and her husband arrived in Mesquite in 2004. They love the friends they have made here and love exploring the beauty of the surrounding desert. Linda has immersed herself in community life and volunteers with education nonprofits. She is a reporter and feature writer for local and regional publications and is always seeking new adventures.
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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 judi@judimoreo.com or (702) 283-4567. 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. 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 is training 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!
Helen Houston is the owner of Staging Spaces and Redesign in Mesquite, Nevada. Helen holds certifications as a Drapery and Design Professional, a Certified Color Consultant, and a Real Estate Staging Professional. Helen has been a contributing writer for ViewOn Magazine for the past 13 years. Her creative writing features articles on home fashion, home staging, and home entertaining. Helen is a published author in several national design and trade magazines. She can be reached at Helen@StagingSpaces.biz or (702) 346-0246. 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. Nathan Hughes is a financial advisor with Raymond James. A native of Mesquite, Nevada, Nathan is dedicated to managing and preserving wealth for you and your family. By establishing deep and valued relationships with you, he is able to gain a comprehensive understanding of your needs and goals. Nathan works hard to enhance and preserve your investments while assisting you in realizing your goals through long-term financial solutions. Contact Nathan by phone at (208) 277-9239, by email at nathan.hughes@raymondjames.com, or visit the firm’s website at www.CoeurPrivateWealthManagement.com. January / February 2024 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | 5
Message from
the Mayor
It wasn’t a feast for the eyes at that moment—just a lot of asphalt and a pile of dirt. Yet when my imagination took over, the possibilities were endless. I envisioned peaceful springtime lunches, community events, and a gathering place for all. These thoughts emerged during the groundbreaking for our new City Hall building at 61 South Main Street, directly across the street from Historic Town Square. Scheduled to be completed sometime in 2025, this new community space is in the right location and comes at the right time in our city’s history—a time when our population growth dictates that we grow accordingly to better serve our residents. A lot of teamwork is going into this project, and a lot of work went into the groundbreaking event itself. This type of collaboration is something our city is known for. It is baked into our culture. We have many awesome events in store for 2024. Here are a few from the first part of the year to put on your radar: Virgin River Half Marathon (January 13): The Virgin River Half Marathon and 5K/Fun Run Walk N' Roll is set upon the river’s edge with eye-popping views, enthusiastic participants, and mild temperatures that are the envy of the Wasatch Front. It is the longest-running 13.1-mile race in southern Utah. The 42nd iteration of the Virgin River Half Marathon is set for January 13 at 9 a.m., beginning and ending in front of the Dixie Convention Center. The spectacular course is on paved city trails that wind along the Virgin River, ushering you through the beautiful landscape of St. George. It is among our most popular races. Heritage Day (January 20): Each year, we commemorate the City’s birthday by preparing free root beer floats at the social hall from noon to 2 p.m. as part of our Heritage Day celebration. In addition to the refreshments, there are several other freebies available on January 20, including free admission to the Sand Hollow Aquatic Center, St. George Recreation Center, and St. George Art Museum and free rides all day on SunTran buses. The train at Thunder Junction and the St. George Carousel will also be free all day. This is an awesome, family-friendly activity. Help us ring in our 162nd birthday! State of the City and Dixie Regional Transportation Expo (February 13): It is my great privilege to host the State of the City address celebration set for February 13 at 3 p.m. in the Dixie Convention Center’s Garden Room. There is no charge to attend the event, and light refreshments will be available. Our team will provide updates on City projects, including the new City Hall building, Fire Stations 1 and 10, and the 3000 East project, among others. While you are there, take a moment to stop by the Dixie Regional Transportation Expo, which will be in full swing down the hall at the Dixie Center. The expo will have all types of information available on transportation projects throughout the whole county. St. George Art Festival (March 29-30): The St. George Art Festival prides itself on being a world-class family-friendly event. Festival goers enjoy thousands of original works of art, live entertainment on two stages, a vibrant children’s area, and food of all types. It’s a can’t-miss event that demonstrates spring has arrived in St. George. A year ago, the art festival added a headliner concert that took place on Tabernacle Street on the expanded festival grounds. We haven’t confirmed the artist for this year, but we are close to announcing another outstanding musical act! If your resolution is to get more involved and be better connected to your city, we’ve got you covered in 2024. Michele Randall, Mayor, City of St. George
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40
table of Contents
Featured Articles
22 26 22 26
WHAT'S NEW AT THE SGU St. George Regional Airport
CONNECTION & REFELCTION
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54 40 54
ST. GEORGE MUSICAL THEATER The New Year Brings New Dreams for a Local Community Theater
IKA GREENS
Farm Stand, Local Grocer, Kitchen
table of Contents
12 14
In Every Issue
VIEW ON MOTIVATION
Unlocking Abundance: A Personal Journey to Attracting Prosperity
VIEW ON DESIGN
Into the Woods: Exploring the Appeal of Wood Furniture Finishes
44
VIEW ON FITNESS
58
VIEW ON FINANCE
62
VIEW ON ADVENTURE
70
VIEW ON PETS
72 82 86 94
58
New Year, New View: Focusing on a Better You!
Reassessing Financial Goals: Financial Wellness in the New Year
Go Hike a Volcano!
It Turns out, You CAN Teach an Old Dog New Tricks!
VIEW ON OUTDOORS Fire Lookout Towers: Eyes on the Forest
62
VIEW ON EDUCATION
Spring Into Creativity with Exciting Community Education Classes
VIEW ON GOLF
5 Tips for a Better Golf Game in 2024
VIEW ON INSPIRATION Embrace Change: A Fresh Start for a Fabulous You
72
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Why I Love
Hurricane Howdy! My name is Riley Imlay! I was born and raised in Hurricane, and I am a proud fifth-generation resident. I am and will forever be grateful to live in such a beautiful place! From the red rocks, the Easter Car Show, and the Hurricane Theatrical Company to the Hurricane High School Tigers and Peach Days, this is such an amazing place to be. And… bonus! It is populated by the most stellar people! Even though this world can sometimes be crazy and unkind, you will always find love and kindness in Hurricane! Through my community service and work with the Miss America Organization, I've really come to know this city and county well! I am so proud to represent and be a part of this community! If you ever get the chance to visit us in Hurricane, take the time! You won’t regret it!
- Riley Imlay
Why I Love
Moapa Valley Hi there. I’m Cayden Adams of Logandale, Nevada. I’m 21 and an MVHS graduate, and I have lived here all my life. I’m here to tell YOU why I love Moapa Valley… I love Moapa Valley because of a few reasons. One reason is that everyone knows you. No matter where I go here in town, there’s always that one person who asks, “How’s your Mom?” or says, “I remember you when you were in my class.” Another reason is that almost everyone believes in God and goes to church, so you’re not alone in having faith. I also love Moapa Valley because it’s so tight-knit that you can count on the community to come together when a need occurs. I love this town and am so grateful to live here and to be a part of it. This is why I love Moapa Valley! - Cayden Adams January / February 2024 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | 11
view on MOTIVATION
Unlocking Abundance: A Personal Journey to Attracting Prosperity
by Judi Moreo
I
n a world that often feels like it's spinning faster than we can keep up with, the pursuit of abundance has become a beacon of hope for many. But what does attracting abundance mean, and how can we make it a reality in all areas of our lives? It's a deeply personal and transformative journey, one that requires patience, intention, and an open heart. Let’s explore the art of attracting abundance, breaking it down into practical steps that resonate personally.
When we create a mental blueprint of our desired reality, we send powerful signals to our subconscious mind. This not only clarifies our goals but also attracts the circumstances and opportunities that align with our vision. Remember, your mind doesn't know the difference between a vividly imagined experience and reality—use this to your advantage in attracting abundance.
1.Cultivate a Gratitude Practice
Intentions are the compass that guides us toward abundance. Be specific about what you want and why you want it. Whether it's financial prosperity, a fulfilling career, loving relationships, or a harmonious life, articulate your intentions clearly. Write them down, speak them out loud, and share them with people you trust. The act of setting intentions is a declaration to the universe, signaling your commitment to your goals.
The path to abundance begins with gratitude. It's easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, constantly chasing the next goal or material possessions. But abundance is not only about accumulating things; it's about appreciating what we have. When we take a moment each day to reflect on the blessings in our lives, we set the stage for more to come. Gratitude is the fertile soil in which abundance takes root. Consider starting a gratitude journal. Each day, jot down three things you're grateful for, no matter how small. It could be a warm cup of tea on a chilly morning, a heartfelt conversation with a friend, or the roof over your head. As you consistently practice gratitude, you'll find that your perception of abundance begins to shift.
2. Visualize Your Ideal Life
Visualization is a powerful tool in the pursuit of abundance. Take time each day to close your eyes and imagine the life you want to create. Picture it vividly in your mind's eye, incorporating all the details that matter to you. See yourself living your dream life, feeling the emotions, and experiencing the sensations associated with it. 12 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | January / February 2024
3. Set Clear Intentions
But it's not enough to just set intentions; you must also act. Every intention needs a plan, and every plan requires effort. By breaking down your goals into actionable steps, you not only create a roadmap to abundance but also demonstrate your dedication to the process.
4. Embrace an Abundance Mindset
Abundance is not merely a state of external wealth; it's also an internal mindset. Cultivate an abundance mindset by challenging and changing any limiting beliefs you may hold. Negative thoughts, like "I'm not good enough" or "I'll never have enough," can be stumbling blocks on your path to abundance. Replace those limiting beliefs with empowering affirmations. Tell yourself, "I am deserving of abundance," "I attract prosperity effortlessly," or "Opportunities for wealth
are all around me." Over time, these affirmations will help reprogram your subconscious mind to support your pursuit of abundance.
5. Trust the Process
The journey to attracting abundance is not always straightforward. There will be setbacks, challenges, and moments of doubt. It is essential to trust the process and maintain unwavering faith in your goals. Remember, the universe works in mysterious ways, and sometimes, what may seem like an obstacle is actually a stepping stone to your ultimate destination. Be patient and persistent. Just as a farmer doesn't expect a harvest the day after planting seeds, your journey toward abundance may take time. Keep nurturing your intentions, maintaining your gratitude practice, and visualizing your ideal life, and you'll find that the universe conspires to bring you the abundance you seek.
6. Practice Generosity
The more you give, the more you receive. Abundance is not about hoarding; it's about flowing. When you practice generosity, you open the channels for abundance to come to you. This doesn't mean giving only money; it could be your time, knowledge, or even a smile. Generosity creates a ripple effect. It fosters positive connections, creates goodwill, and invites abundance back into your life. It's a reminder that abundance isn't solely about what you gain but also about the impact you make in the lives of others.
7. Stay Open to Opportunities
Sometimes, the universe has a grander design for you, and it may present opportunities that you hadn't anticipated. These opportunities may come in the form of new relationships, unexpected job offers, or chance encounters. Trust your instincts, and if something feels right, seize the moment. Abundance often presents itself in the most serendipitous ways.
In Conclusion
Attracting abundance into all areas of our lives is a personal and transformative journey. It requires a blend of gratitude, visualization, clear intentions, an abundance mindset, trust in the process, generosity, and openness to opportunities. As you embark on this journey, remember that true abundance isn't about material wealth; it's about living a life rich in purpose, love, and joy. It's a path filled with self-discovery and growth that will not only bring external rewards but also deepen your understanding of what it means to lead a fulfilling life. So begin your journey today, cultivate these practices, and watch as abundance flows into your life, enriching every facet of your existence. Abundance is not a destination; it's a way of life, and it starts with a single step and an open heart.V Judi Moreo is a motivational speaker, NLP practitioner, achievement coach, entrepreneur, and the author of the bestselling You Are More Than Enough: Every Woman's Guide to Purpose, Passion, and Power (also now in Spanish: Eres mas queue Suficiente), available on Amazon. You can contact Judi at judi@judimoreo.com or (702) 283-4567.
Abundance often comes from unexpected sources. Stay open to opportunities that may not align with your initial plan. January / February 2024 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | 13
view on DESIGN
Into the
Woods Exploring the Appeal of Wood Furniture Finishes by Helen Houston
W
ood furniture has the remarkable ability to infuse warmth, elegance, and a touch of nature into any space. Within the ever-evolving world of design, consumers have begun gravitating toward specific wood colors and finishes, helping to create a harmonious and visually appealing home environment. Current Furniture Color Preferences There are a wide range of stain colors on the market today. Light-toned, blond, and natural wood colors are preferred by designers. Brown is now the most popular finish color for furniture, especially rich chocolate browns. And dark tones like ebony and espresso appear to be making a return now that grays are on their way out. Color Evolution Over the years, furnishing colors that are derived from nature have been appearing in both commercial and residential categories. Grays have saturated the market and are on the downside of the trend curve. Mid-tone browns have become the most popular colors in both furniture and kitchen cabinetry because of how well they work with accent colors. Credit for these colors has to be given to the pronounced grain and ticking of natural wood that is so desirable today. Choosing Wood Species or Finishings Preferred wood species today are quartered oak and ash, split heart oak, elm, hickory, wormy maple, and walnut. As environmental concerns increase, sustainable and recycled materials are going to widen in scope. Recycled materials have
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come to be associated with a mulchy surface effect, which, when translated to color, is very desaturated and soft. The desaturated colors fit the attitude of being one with nature, are great with other colors, and will work well with indoor or outdoor environments. Lifestyle Influencers Most consumers today have a desire for lower-maintenance products in their homes and for those products to be made of authentic materials. The desire for more eco-friendly products will change what we expect from sustainable colors and finishes in the future. Staying Ahead of Consumer Desires and Trends The best way to stay ahead of trends is to keep an eye out for what is happening overseas and within other industries, such as fashion, transportation, and architecture. Following what is 16 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | January / February 2024
happening in Europe will provide an advantage as to what will eventually become popular in the U.S. Knowing exactly when a trend will reach its tipping point is the challenge. Evolution of Wood Furniture Trends and Preferences The mixing of color, style, and texture will be the way going forward. We are starting to see more two-toned furniture where the casing is one color or species, and the drawer fronts are something with a different texture, species, color, or material. We are seeing biophilic influences in design and architecture through an increasing preference for sustainable products. The industry is shifting forward to meet the needs of consumers who are looking to live with products that mirror the environment around them.V Helen Houston is the owner of Staging Spaces and Redesign. Contact Helen at (702) 346-0246 or helen@stagingspaces.biz.
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VISITOR & RED CLIFFS DISCOVERY CENTERS
by Kristin Yantis | Photo credits: David Paul Green
N
Guests can also explore the new facility on their own and learn via the engaging and interactive exhibits which cover everything from geology to local history. And the animals are always a big hit with kids of all ages.”
“Our new Visitor Center is a great place to stop and understand the vast region that is Greater Zion,” says Brittany McMichael, director of the Greater Zion Convention and Tourism Office. “Our team can provide visitors with recommendations on places to stay, things to do, places to eat, and so much more.
Greater Zion offers a unique landscape where several geological regions converge—the Mojave Desert, Colorado Plateau, and Great Basin. The combination of these three iconic western landscapes creates a distinctive ecosystem where several species that can be found nowhere else in the world reside. At the visitor center, guests can learn more about the geological regions and find information on the creatures who call the area home and their roles in the unique ecosystem. The animal ambassadors are cared for by the Red Cliffs Desert
avigating the rare wonders of Greater Zion just got easier with the opening of the new Greater Zion Visitor Center and the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve Discovery Center, both located in the heart of St. George. The conjoined centers not only allow travelers and locals to virtually explore the 2,400-plus square miles of adventure and inspiration found throughout the region, but they also introduce visitors to some of the native animals of southwest Utah.
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Reserve, a function of the Washington County Habitat Conservation Plan. All the creatures were either wild animals found with injuries that prevented them from safely living on their own or recovered from situations where they were being illegally kept as pets. The ambassadors include colorful slithering snakes, shy salamanders, lumbering desert tortoises, a hairy tarantula, a glowing scorpion, and Utah’s official reptile, the Gila monster. Visitors are introduced to each creature via their names. For example, Bonnie, Clyde, Tortilla, and Houdini are a quartet of desert tortoises that represent an ancient desert species known as the “engineers of the desert.” They are called this because they use their burrows to protect themselves from the harsh climate, and the other reptiles that share their burrows rely on them for the same purpose. January / February 2024 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | 19
Guests can also say hello to Bill and Ted, the resident tiger salamanders who have most excellent adventures in the moss, mud, and water within their habitat. She Who Must Not Be Named is a desert tarantula who is easily recognizable as she suns herself under her heat lamp. Or take a selfie with Ryan Reynolds, who is a desert hairy scorpion named after another famous Scorpio. Displays in the visitor center allow for a greater understanding of the region. Along with facts, figures, and opportunities for learning, there are floor-to-ceiling graphic wall displays that showcase the stunning landscapes and unique recreational opportunities found in Greater Zion. There also is a 16-foot by 9-foot interactive 3D-printed map of Greater Zion that provides an immersive experience. The map includes projected and video animations that highlight the area’s four state parks, 14 golf courses, the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, Zion National Park, and Dixie National Forest. The map’s user-friendly touchscreen interface allows visitors to explore the area in detail and learn about the various hiking and biking trails, scenic drives, off-road adventures, and other attractions found throughout the region. The visitor center also includes a red-rock slot canyon that immerses guests in the textures and colors of Greater Zion. Special lighting effects animate the space, gently cycling through the colors of dawn to dusk. A children’s activity corner offers a hands-on video microscope, tactile specimens, and interpretive age-appropriate exhibits about Greater Zion’s world-famous geology. Guests can pick up printed information, including trail maps, brochures, dining guides, and other materials—all free—and talk to the staff, who are local experts. They are passionate about sharing their love of the area, answering questions, providing recommendations, and offering guidance on how to make the most of your time in Greater Zion.V The Greater Zion Visitor Center and the Red Cliffs Discovery Center are located inside the new Washington County Administration Building located at 111 E. Tabernacle Street in St. George, Utah, and are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. For more information, visit www.GreaterZion.com.
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What’s New at the
by Jennifer Jensen
T
hirteen years ago, the St. George Municipal Airport was relocated to its present location, and shortly thereafter, it was classified as a “regional airport.” This project signifies the many great things still to come. A look back in history will show that one year after opening, the busiest passenger month for commercial flights was October of 2011, in which 12,894 passengers used the airport to fly. Fast forward to 2021, and the busiest month was almost triple that number, coming in at 34,607 passengers. At that time, this was the busiest month the airport had ever seen. In 2023, the slowest month was February with 18,680 passengers, which shows a huge increase over the busiest months of 2011. Total counts went from 136,816 passengers in 2011 to over 290,000 passengers in 2023. 22 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | January / February 2024
General Aviation aircraft with Pine Valley in the background
Because of the burgeoning growth the airport has experienced, airport staff redesigned the seating in the boarding area to accommodate more passengers, and that redesign has already been outgrown. “It’s a great problem to have,” says the airport director, Rich Stehmeier. “And we’re excited to announce that we’ll be expanding the boarding area upstairs to make room for passengers.” The expansion is expected to happen in the spring of this year and will move the boarding area into the upper level, where the SGU Express snack bar will be enlarged to serve hot food and alcoholic beverages. The airport also anticipates building onto the existing terminal to make room for an expanded boarding area as well as adding an additional five boarding gates. The private and corporate sides of the airport have also been growing. A new FBO (fuel and aircraft services provider),
Sandstone Aviation, has begun work on a state-of-the-art facility to increase capacity and improve the service offered to private pilots and corporate jets. The airport has also welcomed a new FBO partner, Million Air, who purchased Above View Jet Center. Million Air intends to update and remodel its facilities to better serve its private and corporate aircraft customers.
Excavation of the commercial apron
“We have two great FBOs on the field that have brought a boost in vitality to general aviation here at SGU. A thriving airport is the result of a healthy general aviation community, and we have a great GA community here at SGU,” says Stehmeier. Of course, an airport is not without a runway, taxiways, and aprons, and SGU has plenty of updates about those, too. In 2023, the airport constructed a new apron to be used by corporate and general aviation aircraft near the site of the soon-to-be-completed Sandstone Aviation project. The commercial apron near the terminal also needed to be expanded to accommodate larger airline aircraft. The expanded apron is expected to be completed by April of this year, allowing airlines to up-size their aircraft on SGU routes. “We’ve done some preliminary research and have determined that it is time for the airport to have a tower,” states Stehmeier. “A control tower moves air traffic more efficiently, which, in turn, has the added effect of making the airport safer.” In March of 2024, the FAA will come for the tower site selection project.
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Some may wonder where the funding for airport projects comes from. Per federal regulation, revenue earned at an airport must be spent at the airport. “People who buy fuel, perform aircraft maintenance, rent space to park their airplane, own a hangar, or even just rent a car—those people all help pay for the airport,” says Stehmeier. “If you don’t use the airport, then you’re not paying for it.” The airport also receives funds from the FAA to help pay for major maintenance and capital improvement projects. 24 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | January / February 2024
Commercial Plane taking off at SGU
Even if you don’t use the airport regularly, it impacts you every day by providing thousands of local jobs that inject over $113 million back into the community. SGU also contributes $177.8 million in annual economic activity and serves as a landing and take-off point for medical transportation and search and rescue aircraft. If you’ve ever received a package that was shipped “next-day air,” you have your local airport to thank. The airport is also the method of bringing in emergency supplies in the event of a natural
disaster and would be the only way to receive supplies if the roadway system was interrupted. So the next time you hear an airplane fly over your house, remember that there are thousands of people hard at work to offer you a special escape to your favorite vacation spot, emergency transport for a loved one, or maybe just a convenient way to overnight that awesome online find to your front door. It all happens here at SGU.V January / February 2024 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | 25
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by Kaylee Pickering
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s the calendar changes, the barrage of “new year, new me” mantras begins. With an onslaught of zippy mottos, inspo boards, and jingles in every possible key, the pressure to change starts to feel overwhelming. Change is great; we love change. But sometimes, a reconnection feels healthier than a rebrand. For us, a quiet and purposeful adventure is an opportunity for reconnection—not just with nature, but with ourselves as well. Take a minute to breathe, try something new, and rediscover the already incredible “new you” with these ideas for fresh views in southern Utah. Reflect in Red Rock Bathed in golden-hour light or the sun’s first rays, landscapes take on a different life as hues that aren’t ever fully captured on camera respond to the light’s touch. Shadows dance across formations, calling attention to peaks and arches, wavy crests, and hoodoos that you’ve never noticed. Whether you’re on the trail or sitting at the overlooks, the world seems to hold still for just a moment among the red rock of southern Utah. In years spent hiking the trails from Zion to Bryce, I have learned that there is always something new to spot among the formations, and the red rock that surrounds us offers a special opportunity for discovery. There are days and times when the stone walls of Kolob Canyons appear much darker, the ridges and formations of Cedar Breaks appear much softer, and the landscape surrounding the Red Hollow Trail seems much brighter. Beneath the branches of ancient bristlecone pines on the South Rim Trail, hues of orange, pink, and purple offer a soft backdrop to incredible trees known for their resilience and longevity. Wildlife scampers by quietly. Deep breaths pull in crisp mountain air and scents of pine, sand, and even a hint of rain. You don’t feel in such a rush to leave. It’s not about steps, and it’s not about how many trails you can do in one day. This visit is just about you and connecting with the incredible space around you. A slow visit focused on the new things that you can spot rather than how many miles you can cover along the trails offers a chance for connection and reflection that we can’t replace.
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Winter Wonder in the National Parks Creativity is an integral and easily misplaced part of us. With the hustle of the holidays, it becomes difficult to foster creativity this time of year. The landscapes of southern Utah and our nearby national parks have been a haven for artists of all mediums for decades. A winter visit to Utah’s national parks looks a little different than it does any other time of year; these spaces are magical beneath a blanket of snow. Anticipating new views ahead and with a park 28 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | January / February 2024
Snow in Kolob Canyons | Photo credit: Visit Cedar City
pass in hand and some extra layers, visitors enjoy this ideal time to see the parks when they are a little slower and a little quieter. Standing between the crimson cliff formations of Zion National Park or winding through the forest alongside natural rock walls on the Riverside Walk, it’s hard to not catch a glimpse of something incredible. The gentle sounds of the river, the hushed chatter of your fellow hikers, and the call of native birds offer subtle background noise. There is nothing to overpower a creative train of thought and nothing to distract you from yourself—other than the breathtaking beauty around you.
Even though the partial closure of the Kolob Canyons scenic drive does limit hiking options around the northern side of Zion, the sight of the crimson “five finger” rock formations of the canyon with a bit of snow on them is more than worth the journey. Tucked away from traffic and quieted by snow, there’s something magical about Kolob in winter. Grab some snowshoes, share your plans with friends, and take a serene walk through the Zion wilderness along the Taylor Creek Trail, or just enjoy the view during the scenic drive.
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Explore Cedar City Arts A large part of what makes Cedar City a welcoming and vibrant gateway to adventure in southern Utah is the arts found throughout downtown.
Southern Utah Museum of Art - Jimmie F. Jones Paintings | Photo credit: Tobey Schmidt
Nurture the flame of connection and inspiration found in the parks with a day absorbing the arts. The Southern Utah Museum of Art is home to rotating exhibits from artists
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known and emerging, but their primary collection is one that showcases the beauty of Utah’s landscapes. The Jimmie F. Jones collection highlights iconic landscapes in vibrant colors and flowing lines that capture the beauty of the natural views nearby. Though other pieces and collections at SUMA may come and go, there’s always a piece of southern Utah on display somewhere.
Beverley Center for the Arts | Photo credit : Visit Cedar City
Stepping away from our world and into someone else’s is easy with a visit to the Utah Shakespeare Festival. Join the revelry of a Shakespearean comedy, tap your foot along to a musical number, or enjoy a reflective walk among the sculpture gardens at the Beverley Center for the Arts. There’s a unique connection to be made with yourself when you step into the world and shoes of another. You may find inspiration in the characters as they stand in bright flowers and landscaping or as they’re presented on stage. Local shops offer painting supplies and even a suggestion or two of incredible locations for those who want to do a bit of plein-air painting. Painting outdoors with the full breadth of the landscape before you is a chance to find those hidden formations again. Take in the hues of the landscapes, the feeling between canyon walls, and the life that flourishes within these beautiful spaces. We’ll worry about being galleryworthy on a different day. The new year can be stressful. Navigating the pressure to create a “new you” is challenging and can be draining. Sometimes, all we really need is a new view.V www.VisitCedarCity.com for more information.
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What’s
New
In
Southern
Utah
by MacRae Heppler
A
s we welcome the new year here in the St. George area, commercial development and new business are still humming along. We continue to see growth in just about every part of the county. The following pages showcase a few areas to keep an eye on:
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This year is going to be a HUGE one for Black Desert Resort as the PGA tour is set to hold the first-ever Black Desert Resort Championship in October. This will also be the first PGA tour stop in Utah in more than 60 years. Following that, the LPGA will be here in May of 2025, making this course one of only three in the country to host both events. Construction is progressing nicely, and they plan to be finished with the resort center along with a few of the other villages before October. Apart from the golf course, Black Desert Resort is a comprehensive and luxurious destination that will offer a range of amenities and experiences. The resort will provide spa facilities, a convention center, a show venue, and numerous opportunities for adventure. It will also include restaurants and shopping areas, encapsulating the essence of the St. George and Greater Zion area, as well as a future water park that will have something for all ages. In 2024, most of the construction will be focused on getting the residences finished. This project will elevate our local hospitality community in so many ways. If you’re in town, you’ll definitely want to check it out! January / February 2024 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | 33
Planners for Tech Ridge have made huge strides this year in the infrastructure of the whole project. This project represents a dynamic fusion of modern workspaces and natural beauty designed to foster a thriving tech community and workplace culture. This ambitious project spans over 180 acres and is strategically located on the bluff where the old St. George Airport used to be, offering panoramic views of the St. George valley. The master plan for Tech Ridge envisions over one million square feet of office space, aiming to attract high-paying, tech-focused jobs to the area. Along with this, there will be hotels,
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restaurants, and other retail and shopping along the bluff. Blending urban development with the natural environment, 60 acres of parks, trails, and open space will also be incorporated. The focus is on creating a balanced lifestyle where business and leisure coexist harmoniously. In 2024, there will be major improvements made to infrastructure as well as the beginning of construction for multiple office buildings and apartments. This will be a huge addition to the local business community, and it will be exciting to see it continue to develop!
The Desert Color community area continues to boom, as it has some of the best available options for homes in the whole area. Along with this, Intermountain Health has begun planning its new hospital campus and should start construction soon. The commercial center is now underway with lots of good options that will include restaurants and other services plus another big entertainment anchor that should be announced soon. Restaurants such as Jersey Mikes, Chipotle, Zao Asian Café, pizza places, and others are all confirmed, and we should see quite a few open in 2024. Lastly, construction on the Atara Resort by Marriott should be starting soon as well. There is a lot going on around here! Also, on the other side of I-15 here, Smith’s has broken ground, and construction is underway. This will be a great addition to the area, as grocery is needed for this whole corridor. More retail and other services will surround Smith’s, and hopefully, more information on that will be available soon. Next to the Kenworth Truck Center, Moto Zoo is also under construction and will be a great addition. ARA Southwest Logistics Center is one of the newest and most massive projects in the works in Washington near the St. George Airport. The ARA center is a significant development for our industrial and commercial landscape. Spanning a substantial area, the center is designed to cater to a range of business needs, particularly distribution, fulfillment, and manufacturing. The center's size is quite expansive with available spaces ranging from 175,132 to 700,528 square feet, highlighting its capacity to accommodate large-scale operations. It is a testament to the growing economic development in Washington, Utah. The project represents a shift from the city's historical reliance on St. George for goods, services, and commerce and marks a significant step in its independent economic growth. Builders are in the process of grading the project and hope to go vertical on the first set of buildings in 2024. This will be a huge addition to our business community!V For more information on what’s happening in southern Utah, you can subscribe to my email list and YouTube at SouthernUtahNewsletter.com, or follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
MacRae Heppler of Eagle Gate Title
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New Year, New Goals, and New Options for Healthcare! by Rob Fuller, Director of Development
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uring these changing times in healthcare delivery, recruiting a primary care provider for any rural community can be a substantial challenge—and successfully signing six primary care providers would be considered nothing short of a miracle! But that’s exactly what Mesa View Medical Group in Mesquite, Nevada, has been able to accomplish.
amenities that are available in larger population centers, and a lack of housing and transportation infrastructure. Faced with these issues and coupled with a history of high provider turnover, the strategy of Adams and Lyman emphasized the rural nature of the region rather than trying to overcome deficiencies by overselling Mesquite’s proximity to larger population centers.
Thanks to a recruitment strategy developed by Mesa View Regional Hospital CEO Kelly Adams and Mesa View Medical Group Director Mary Lyman, six new healthcare professionals, including two physicians, have commenced their practices in Mesquite and are now seeing new patients of all ages and at all stages of life.
“We took the time to search for candidates who were seeking a more rural lifestyle or who have strong family ties and/or history in the Virgin Valley and Moapa Valley region,” explain Adams and Lyman. “It is a process that takes considerably more time and searching than is usual. However, we believe that the results will more than offset the extra time by bringing us physicians and nurse practitioners who will be likely to stay in our communities for a longer period of time and become more personally involved and dedicated to our community initiatives and population groups.”
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Dr. Sean Kiesel:
Dr. Kiesel, whose specialty is family medicine, has years of experience in urgent care settings, family practice, and nursing homes as well as acute care rehabilitation facilities. He is passionate about the timeliness of care, often asking patients to answer clarifying questions to help him fully understand what they are experiencing. He has a particular interest in children’s wellness, diabetes management, and cancer screenings. In addition to his medical degree and residency, he has achieved his master’s in business administration. When not seeing patients, Dr. Kiesel enjoys time with his wife and family, mountain biking, hiking, and barbequing!
Dr. Dagmar Crosby:
Dr. Crosby also specializes in family medicine. While originally from the Czech Republic, she completed her medical residency as a University of Washington resident physician. After spending the early part of her career in the Pacific Northwest, she and her husband are now dedicated to enjoying life in the Mesquite area, which is where they have longed to live. She believes in focusing on patient-centered care, paying special attention to what the patient is saying both verbally and with body language. Her mission is to help each patient live their best life while respecting their individual decisions about how they choose to live. When not helping patients, Dr. Crosby can be seen playing tennis with her husband, spending time with their two children, or playing classical piano. In addition to Dr. Keisel and Dr. Crosby, there are four allied health professionals who are all nurse practitioners (also known as advanced practice registered nurses). In the state of Nevada, nurse practitioners can operate as independent providers. Much like a physician, they independently diagnose, treat, prescribe medications, and create treatment plans. These new allied health professionals include:
Jill Blasdell, FNP-C
Jill sees patients in the Quick Care Walk-in Clinic in Logandale, Nevada, located at 1925 Whipple Street, Suite #30. Jill is certified in family medicine and sees patients of all ages. She can be reached at (702) 398-3621.
Elizabeth Bluemel, FNP-BC
Elizabeth sees patients at the Mesa View Medical Group main clinic in Mesquite, located at 1301 Bertha Howe Avenue, Suite #1. Although her specialty is family medicine, she is accepting new patients of all ages and has extensive experience with teenage and adult psychology. She can be reached at (702) 346-0800 or by visiting MesaViewMedical.com.
Rae Marie Delaney, FNP
Rae has spent many years as a nurse in a wide variety of settings, including cardiac catheterization laboratories, surgery, home care, and as a charge nurse. She is a veteran of the United States Navy, where she spent years as a medical technician at Nellis Air Force Base and later, as a critical care and cardiac care technician. Rae is accepting new patients and can be seen at Mesa View Medical Group’s main clinic at 1301 Bertha Howe Avenue in Mesquite, Nevada. She can also be reached by visiting MesaViewMedical.com. Jerry Thomas, FNP-C In addition to being a proud new dad, Jerry is certified in family medicine and accepts patients of all ages. Before entering his nursing career, Jerry graduated summa cum laude, the highest academic distinction, from Weber State University. With many years of experience in rural hospital emergency medicine, Jerry is no stranger to caring for and treating patients with healthcare needs spanning all generations of life. He is driven by a passion for helping people by connecting with them and understanding what they are experiencing. He can be seen at Mesa View Medical Group’s main clinic at 1301 Bertha Howe Avenue in Mesquite, Nevada, and can be reached by visiting MesaViewMedical.com. Appointments can be made for any of the providers mentioned in this article by visiting MesaViewAnytime.com. Appointments can actually be made and confirmed in real-time. In conclusion, have a Happier New Year knowing that you now have even more options and increased access to experienced primary care providers in Mesquite, Nevada!V For more information visit www.MesaViewMedical.com or call (702) 346-0800.
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THE New Year Brings New Dreams for a Local Community Theater by Bruce R. Bennett, President/Artistic Director of SGMT
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uilding a successful community theater is never an easy journey. But St. George Musical Theater (SGMT), located in the heart of beautiful southern Utah, has weathered many challenges and is set to make a 25-year dream a reality with a brand new 375-seat theater-in-the-round performing arts building located in downtown St. George, Utah. St. George Musical Theater presents nearly 170 performances a year as part of a six-show season and a youth summer camp. They’ve developed a reputation for sold-out performances in
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their intimate 125-seat theater, which offers exceptional production value at an affordable price. SGMT produces popular musicals like My Fair Lady, Camelot, Fiddler on the Roof, and Annie Get Your Gun and also offers newer classics like Catch Me If You Can, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, and Little Women. Explains President/Artistic Director Bruce R. Bennett, “Patrons tell us our signature in-the-round presentation combined with the immersive space is like seeing even familiar shows for the first time—the audience is thrust into the middle of these great stories. No one is falling asleep in our productions, that’s
for sure—even young people love being so close-up to the action.” Bennett promises that the signature immersive experience will be maintained even in a space three times the capacity of the current venue, the St. George Opera House. “Everything we do will be improved with better seating and visibility. It will be more comfortable and convenient in every way, and for the first time in our history, our patrons will actually have a lobby!” Bennet remarks. Building a new theater will also allow SGMT to enhance its technical flexibility, which includes an elevating trap stage, LED walls, actors’ balconies, and other amenities. January / February 2024 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | 41
The goal is to make the patron experience even more moving. “A small space allows us to focus on the colorful characters and the rich storytelling that is the foundation of our shows,” notes Executive Administrator Tara Griffith. Her two children have been heavily involved in SGMT, which has helped them to become veterans of professional theaters. SGMT is the oldest and most successful community theater in the area, and it is proud that everyone involved is a local resident, including performers, directors, the tech crew, and a cadre of volunteers. “Our patrons love seeing their dentist performing on stage, their kid’s teacher as the choreographer, and possibly a neighbor running the light board,” comments Bennett. There is nothing like the connectedness of community theater. It’s part of the pioneer spirit of those who first settled this area and immediately built a social hall for artistic presentations. The social hall is adjacent to the historic opera house. Many have noted that when SGMT builds its new performing arts venue, it will be the first brand-new, community-operated facility of its kind since the opera house was completed in 1875. SGMT’s success is not surprising considering the recent explosion of growth in the performing arts in Utah as a whole. Nearly every major city, including Salt Lake, Sandy, Bountiful, Taylorsville, Pleasant Grove, and Cedar City, has either recently 42 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | January / February 2024
built or begun construction on a brand-new theater complex to satisfy the seemingly unquenchable demand for familyfriendly arts entertainment. “Utah is often considered the ‘Broadway of the West’ due to this success, and we are thrilled to add St. George to this list of premium arts destinations,” says executive board member David Brinley, who happily volunteers his time both on and off the stage. As a wonderful compliment to the new theater, which will be built on Main Street south of the downtown area, SGMT will also be repurposing an old movie theater. This new “campus” will house rehearsal stages, performance spaces for tribute concerts, and youth productions as well as offer rental studios to the community, which will help offset the lack of this space in the area. Explains Bennett, “It was so conveniently located— directly across the street from our new building—and will help revitalize this part of town, hopefully encouraging new restaurants, hotels, and even retail with the 75,000-plus patrons that we expect to attend the new venues.”V SGMT is just kicking off its fundraising campaign, and while over half of the funding has been pledged already, it needs the generosity of more donors to make the dream a reality. For information about St. George Musical Theater, visit www.sgmt.org, and for ways you can contribute to this project, please call Tara at (435) 628-8755 or email Bruce at Bruce@sgmusicaltheater.com.
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view on FITNESS
NEW YEAR, NEW VIEW Focusing on a better you! by Ashley Centers
H
appy New Year, readers! I’m so glad to be back for another fantastic edition of ViewOn Magazine. And I’m so grateful for another year full of possibilities.
In this edition, I wanted to focus on something I think we all may struggle with in our fitness journey at some point or another. And that’s remembering that focusing on ourselves and our fitness goals is not a selfish endeavor but an absolutely necessary one. I know at times in my own journey, I have felt immensely guilty for the amount of time that my gym days take away from family time and time at home in general. I have felt guilty that the hours I spend in the gym could have been spent working in my shop to bring in extra income for my family or that the time would have been better spent with friends that I don’t get to see as often as I would like. 44 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | January / February 2024
The sad truth about life these days is that we all struggle sometimes with being overwhelmingly busy with work, family commitments, events, and other things, and it really is difficult to fit all this and our health goals into our schedules. Sometimes we feel guilty for taking any time away from those things. However, the thing we need to remember is that our time for fitness is something entirely different than a selfish pursuit. If our time in the gym helps us to relieve stress before coming home to our families, cope better with the responsibilities of our jobs, or have the energy to play with our kids more on the weekends while feeling more comfortable doing so, then it is very much not a selfish pursuit. The plain and simple fact is that prioritizing our health is the best thing for us and everyone around us.
I personally would like to live a long and healthy life and be able to support my family. I know from personal experience— with some very overwhelming past health issues—that my fitness is the key factor in being able to do that. If my body aches, I know the stretching I do pre-workout can relieve it. If I’m feeling down, I know a little time in the gym usually has my spirits lifted in no time. And if I feel overwhelmed at work, a quick workout can relieve the stress. The reality is that those workouts take time, and everyone struggles to manage that time every once in a while. What I’d like us to remember this year is to try and lose the guilt about focusing on this aspect of our lives. Try and remember that our health is our most important asset. And the time we spend working out or exercising is time well spent as long as we are not neglecting our responsibilities or our families.
I’d like us to also remember that without our health, we have nothing, and we need to focus on it now before it’s too late. So this year, let’s focus on a newer, healthier us with a new healthy mindset about our fitness and the time we’re investing in it. Time invested in your health now is time invested in your health in the future, and that investment will return dividends eventually. So lose the guilt, find a happy medium to handle your commitments, and keep working toward being the healthiest and best version of yourself you can be. And remember, as always, that your health is your wealth. Until next time, Happy New Year, and happy new you!V
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City of Mesquite Animal Shelter Recognized by Alisia Leavitt, Animal Control Officer
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he Mesquite Animal Shelter is proud to be recognized by Best Friends Animal Sanctuary for achieving no-kill status. Best Friends has made it a priority to help every shelter and every community achieve no-kill status by 2025. According to Best Friends, they lead the no-kill movement by running lifesaving community programs for dogs and cats, providing support and training for animal shelters and rescue groups, and mobilizing community members on behalf of pets in need across the country. Best Friends believes that “no single organization can do it alone, but working together, we can ensure a bright and happy future for every pet.” The Mesquite Animal Shelter takes in an average of 520 animals a year, and it has always been our goal to save the lives of healthy and treatable animals. On September 20, 2018, the Mesquite Police Department announced that the animal shelter was officially designated as a no-kill facility. Since that designation, we have had a number of questions regarding the definition of a no-kill facility. 46 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | January / February 2024
The definition of a no-kill facility is an animal shelter or rescue that does not put down healthy or treatable animals. Euthanasia is reserved for when it’s medically necessary or for animals that are vicious. When an animal is deemed a danger to the public or its health continues to decline and its condition is untreatable, humane euthanasia can be the best outcome. Euthanasia, while extremely hard on the staff, can be an act of compassion for animals who are suffering. To be considered a no-kill facility, a shelter or rescue also has to have at least a 90% adoption rate. Here at the Mesquite Animal Shelter, we work diligently and try to avoid euthanasia at all costs. Our goal is to find the ideal home for each and every animal. Since 2018, we have had an average adoption rate of 97%. Now let’s go over a couple of advantages and disadvantages of no-kill facilities. The biggest advantage is the increased adoption rate. Being able to take the time and put in the extra effort to find suitable placements for the animals that
come into our shelter is incredibly rewarding. While an increased adoption rate is a wonderful advantage, it can also be a bit of a disadvantage due to the additional funding that is needed to properly run the no-kill facility. An increase in staff, additional medical costs, and added operating expenses can take a toll on a rescue or a shelter. That leads to the next advantage, which is grant funding and private donations. Animal organizations and private donors are more likely to contribute to no-kill facilities. These funds are greatly appreciated by shelters and rescues but cannot be considered a regular source of funding. The Mesquite Animal Shelter is fortunate to have help from numerous volunteers who pour their hearts into caring for the animals that come into the shelter. Our success as a no-kill facility is due to the efforts of our dedicated animal control officers, the beloved volunteers, the outstanding community, and our city administrators and council.V
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by James Parsons
D
ust off your boots, and find your hat. The 2024 Mesquite Western Roundup will once again welcome everyone for fun with Western music and poetry. As is tradition, the roundup will grace the stage of the local Mesquite Community Theatre at 150 North Yucca Street. This year’s shows are scheduled for February 23 at 7 p.m. and February 24 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. Branson Anderson will open the show with his eclectic Western repertoire. Branson hails from Logandale, Nevada, but also spends time in Utah and Wyoming with guitar in hand. Len Randolf will serve as this year’s master of ceremonies. Len has weathered years in the public eye and will don his boots and hat to greet and guide the audience at the roundup. This year’s featured musical group is Many Strings and Company— that is, Tony and Carol Messerly. Named Academy of Western Artists 2018 Western Duo of the Year, Tony and Carol have a lot of fun on the stage and take the audience with them for the ride. Of course, the focus of the show will be the cowboy poetry presented by the Mesquite Western Poets. Spawned by the Mesquite Arts Council, this group brings varied experiences and
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presentation styles to the stage. Farrel Bott is a cowboy from Utah who winters in Mesquite and is a crowd favorite. Bruce BT Bugland began his journey to the Southwest from New York but now resides in Hurricane as a Cowboy Action Shooter. Steve Campbell dips into his background as an Idaho cattle rancher for his poetry, and Jim Parsons brings his experience as a California and Nevada mule packer to the stage. Kathy Smith has a long family history of ranching in northern Arizona that she draws upon for her poetry. Award-winning Russ Westwood, a Utah boy who literally has cowboy poetry in his blood, rounds out the show. Each year, the audience laughs and cries and celebrates our nation during the Mesquite Western Roundup, and this year will be no exception.V Tickets are $15 per person and will be available at the Mesquite Fine Arts Gallery or the Mesquite Community Theatre box office one hour before each show. Tickets can also be purchased at mctnv.com. Money earned that exceeds expenses goes toward scholarships for local high school students.
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Invites the Public to Tour the Red Cliffs Temple by Elisa Eames |
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he Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will open its newly completed Red Cliffs Utah Temple (above) to the general public beginning in February. There will be a media day on Monday, January 29, and the temple will be open to visitors from Thursday, February 1, through Saturday, March 2 (closed Sundays). Temple open houses are free and generally include a video and walk-through tour of the building. Tour reservations, modest attire, and comfortable shoes are recommended.
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The Red Cliffs Temple in St. George, Utah, was announced on October 7, 2018, and ground was broken on November 7, 2020, with various educational, government, and religious representatives present, including six mayors. A St. George native, Jeffrey R. Holland of the Church of Jesus Christ’s Quorum of the Twelve Apostles presided over the groundbreaking. Because the water table at the construction site was too high to support the foundation, 30,000 cubic yards of dirt were moved from the St. George Temple site to the site of the Red Cliffs Temple to stabilize the grounds.
Previously called the Washington County Utah Temple, the Red Cliffs Temple was renamed in 2020 by Holland and his wife, Patricia, who were inspired while driving by Petticoat Mountain. The three-story, 90,000-square-foot building sits on a 14-acre site and will be the second temple in St. George. Its companion, the St. George Utah Temple (right), recently underwent extensive renovations prior to a public open house and was rededicated on December 10. Red Cliffs is located at 1580 South Street in St. George, Utah 84790. Nearby roads have also been extended and improved and will facilitate access to the temple.
Images courtesy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter -Day Saints
The Church of Jesus Christ’s website explains, “Temples differ from the Church’s meetinghouses (chapels). All are welcome to attend Sunday worship services and other weekday activities at local meetinghouses. The primary purpose of temples is for faithful members of the Church of Jesus Christ to participate in sacred ceremonies which unite families forever.” The temples of the Church of Jesus Christ are similar to biblical temples, and members go to perform sacred proxy ceremonies on behalf of their ancestors, believing that this can allow family relationships to last forever. Patrons also attend temples to feel closer to God and Jesus Christ, learn more about Christ and His teachings, and find peace. The Red Cliffs Temple is scheduled to be dedicated on March 24, 2024. A dedication is a special ceremony including music and speakers and sets the completed building apart as a sacred space before its use by worshippers. After a temple is dedicated, only faithful members of the Church of Jesus Christ may be admitted.V Find more information or book a tour online at www.churchofjesuschrist.org/temples/open-houses. Service animals may not enter the temple, and the Church asks that visitors do not smoke on temple property.
Newly renovated St. George, Utah temple
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Farm Stand • Local Grocer • Kitchen Contributed by Ika Greens
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ka Greens is not your average grocery store. Owners Alex and Kirsten Pope are beginning their journey to provide the Mesquite community with a one-of-a-kind shopping experience that celebrates the richness of Nevada-made goods and regionally sourced produce and products. Ika Greens aims to become a go-to destination for those seeking a connection to their food and a commitment to supporting small businesses.
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The Popes started their business as a small family farm in Moapa, Nevada, 30 miles southwest of Mesquite. They grow a variety of greens and vegetables using hydroponics, aquaponics, and soil. Since January 2022, they have attended farmers' markets from Las Vegas to Mesquite. They were often the only farmers at these markets, and while people enjoyed their greens, they expressed a desire for a wider variety of
produce. In response, Ika Greens began collaborating with other farmers to offer additional items like tomatoes and corn— things they were not growing on their own farm. This partnership has grown over time. Currently, Ika Greens works with a handful of regional farmers as well as a small distributor based in Las Vegas to bring in high-quality produce that is harvested at the peak of freshness. They source most of their products from Nevada and regionally from southern Utah, Arizona, California, and occasionally, further afield. Their focus is on supporting small farms. The new Ika Greens storefront will allow them to expand their reach and offer more local produce and products. The first stage of their opening focuses on the retail space where they sell the produce. The second stage is to install their on-site hydroponic farm where greens and microgreens will be grown for sale in the store and for use in the kitchen. The third stage will be the establishment of a commercial kitchen. This kitchen will serve multiple purposes, including the creation of pre-made salads, sides, and take-home meals for purchase in the store. It will also
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be a shared space where local small-scale producers can rent a professional kitchen to create their own culinary products. This initiative not only supports local food entrepreneurs but also ensures that a diverse range of unique products, such as jams, jellies, soups, and breads, find their way to Ika Greens' shelves. Part of Ika Greens' mission is to provide unique opportunities for local producers and like-minded vendors. By bringing together various products and farms under one roof, they aim to celebrate and promote Nevada, regional farmers, and producers. Their goal is to create a community gathering place centered around food and beverages, redefining the local market experience in a modern and enjoyable way. With each visit, customers can expect to find something new as Ika Greens continues to grow and partner with the community.V Ika Greens is located at 570 West Pioneer Blvd., Suite 101 in Mesquite, Nevada. They currently have limited hours on Fridays and Saturdays with more regular hours coming soon. Follow them on Facebook for information and recipes, and visit their website at www.ikagreens.com.
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view on FINANCE
Reassessing Financial Goals Financial Wellness in the New Year by Nathan Hughes
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s the new year unfolds, it presents us with a golden opportunity to reevaluate our financial paths and set a clear course for the future. Reassessing financial goals becomes an integral part of the "new year, new me" mantra, paving the way toward a more secure and fulfilling financial future.
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Life is dynamic, and so are our aspirations and needs. What might have been our financial goals a few years ago may need rethinking now, especially as retirement inches closer or circumstances change. Reassessing financial goals is not just about tweaking numbers; it's about aligning our finances with our evolving dreams.
Reflecting on Progress: Take a moment to reflect on your financial journey so far. Celebrate the milestones achieved, whether it's paying off a mortgage, building a robust investment portfolio, or setting up a college fund for grandchildren. Acknowledge your financial accomplishments; they're the stepping stones to where you are today. Defining New Objectives: With a clearer understanding of where you are, define new financial objectives that resonate with your current phase of life. Perhaps retirement is on the horizon, and the focus shifts from accumulating wealth to preserving it. Or maybe there are new passions or endeavors you want to pursue, necessitating a reassessment of your investment strategies. Reviewing Retirement Plans: Revisiting retirement plans is crucial. Determine if your savings and investment allocations are aligned with the lifestyle you envision during retirement. Consider factors such as healthcare costs, travel aspirations, or hobbies that might require financial support. Adjusting Risk Tolerance: As we grow older, our risk tolerance often changes. Evaluate your current investment portfolio to see if it matches your comfort level in terms of risk. It might be time to rebalance and diversify to ensure a balance between growth and stability.
Maximizing Tax-Efficient Strategies: Explore tax-efficient investment options, especially retirement accounts like IRAs or 401(k)s. Understanding how to minimize tax implications on investments can significantly impact your long-term financial growth. Seeking Professional Guidance: Consider consulting a financial advisor to review your financial plan. An expert's perspective can offer valuable insights and personalized strategies that cater to your specific needs and aspirations. Embracing Flexibility: Flexibility is key. Life rarely goes exactly as planned. Having a financial plan that can adapt to unexpected changes or opportunities ensures resilience and confidence. Remember, reassessing financial goals isn't a one-time event; it's an ongoing process. Regularly revisit and realign your goals to stay on track for financial wellness. Embrace the new year as an opportunity to reaffirm your commitment to financial health and make informed decisions that align with your aspirations.V Nathan Hughes is a native of Mesquite, Nevada. He is licensed and serves clients as a financial advisor at Coeur Private Wealth Management of Raymond James. To contact Nathan, call (208) 277-9239, email him at nathan.hughes@raymondjames.com, or visit the firm’s website at www.CoeurPrivateWealthManagement.com. The firm is located at 2100 Northwest Blvd. #260, Coeur d'Alene, Idaho 83814.
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Diamonds are Forever at
by Megan Young
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he famous tagline, “Diamonds are Forever,” was created in the 1940s by De Beers Consolidated Mines, Ltd. to help sell more diamonds, and now in 2023, we see that the words still hold true. As the owner of Forever Young Fine Jewelers, nothing gets me more excited than when we have customers come into our store saying they have inherited jewelry and are looking 60 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | January / February 2024
Shelby Reynold's custom ring made with her Grandmother's diamond
for a way to preserve it. There are so many options! Don’t let sentimental jewelry just sit in your drawer—let’s figure out a way for you to enjoy it! With two full-time in-house bench jewelers, Amy Lander and Macie McArthur, Forever Young Fine Jewelers can turn that piece sitting in your jewelry box into something you’ll be excited to wear.
pull the stones from the old mountings and reset them into rings or pendants for the children or grandchildren. “I took in my grandmother’s ring to be redesigned, and they did a beautiful job creating exactly what I wanted. They also have many beautiful designs in store as well that I didn’t see at other jewelry shops. When I took it in to be resized, they finished it so quickly even though they were busy from the holidays,” remarks Shelby Reynolds.
Becky Gelderloos' custom ring made from a variety of old diamond rings
“I had some diamond jewelry that I wasn’t wearing anymore. I took it into Amy and had her create a beautiful ring out of all of it, combined. The way it turned out exceeded my expectations. I love it! She is amazing!!” Becky Gelderloos says via Google Review. Sometimes jewelry isn’t worn because it’s not the right finger size, it’s broken, or it’s no longer “in style.” The team at Forever Young Fine Jewelers can take a look at your jewelry and work with you to recreate it into a piece you will wear and love. Gold can wear down over time, but the stones, especially diamonds, are usually in great condition and can be passed down from generation to generation. A popular idea is to
Forever Young Fine Jewelers will also buy your old jewelry. Even if it’s broken, it is worth its weight in gold. Many people inherit jewelry, and they’re not sure what’s genuine and what is considered costume jewelry. If you are unsure if it’s real gold or not, the team will be happy to help you test and determine what is real and what is costume jewelry at no charge. For more valuable pieces, Forever Young recommends getting them appraised and insured. Their on-site GIA Graduate Gemologist, Mary Leigh Howorth, is able to weigh, test, and measure jewelry to give an accurate replacement value for insurance or estate purposes. We love our customers, and we love celebrating your stories through jewelry. We would be honored to be your jewelers.V Forever Young Fine Jewelers is located at 41 N. Main Street in St. George. They have been in business since 2016 and have been voted “Best Jewelry Store in Southern Utah” every year since 2017. For questions or more information, please contact them at (435) 673-2471, or visit their website at foreveryoungfinejewelers.com.
The Forever Young Fine Jewelers team
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view on ADVENTURE
Go Hike a Volcano! by Cliff & Ilene Bandringa, BackRoadsWest.com
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he holidays are over and we’ve probably all gained a few extra pounds. What’s the best way to start losing some of those pounds? Go on a hike! And what better terrain to hike on than a steep thigh-burning hill to increase that heart rate? And where can you find such steepness? Go hike a volcano! 62 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | January / February 2024
The area around southwest Utah is packed full of small volcanoes known as cinder cones. Hiking to the top of one of these cinder cones can offer great views and interesting landscapes, but most of them don’t have a hiking trail and are very difficult to hike due to their steepness. In this article, we’re going to focus on one that
South cinder cone - the one to climb does have a trail and is not too steep to climb. It’s located just ten miles north of St. George. Some of you may now be wondering what a cinder cone is. Cinder cones are like mini volcanoes. They form small hills and
only erupt once or a few times. In comparison, real volcanoes, like Mount Saint Helens, erupt over and over again, and over a long period of time, this forms large mountains, such as Mount Rainier, Mount Fuji, Mauna Kea, Kilimanjaro, and many others. Cinder cones form when a small pocket of molten magma January / February 2024 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | 63
spurts up onto the earth’s surface, whereas volcanoes form by being connected to a large body of magma deep in the earth and repeatedly erupting, sometimes violently. In the northeast corner of Snow Canyon State Park are two such cinder cones. Neither has a specific name. Together, however, they are known as the Santa Clara volcanic field. The southern one, which is closer to Highway 18, has the trail we’re going to hike, whereas the northern one is inaccessible. Recently, thanks to an effort between the State Park and the BLM, the trail was improved on the southern cinder cone, making it a much easier climb to the top. The trailhead is located on Highway 18, about one and a quarter miles past Snow Canyon’s northern entrance just before the turn-off to Diamond Valley. It’s on the right side of the road. Look for the brown “cinder cone” sign that marks the trailhead. When parking or pulling out, be aware that traffic along Highway 18 moves very fast, so be careful! Start your hike from the obvious trail that heads towards the cinder cone from the brown sign. Instantly, you’ll pass through a field of jumbled black basalt topped with colorful rock lichens. Lichens seem to love growing on basalt and are often seen at other volcanic sites. The trail heads clockwise around the cone to its south side (Highway 18 is on its north side).
North cinder cone
The beginning of the trail
Soon you’ll pass a gate with a sign indicating that if you continue through the gate, you’ll encounter “dangerous animals.” This is obviously a rancher’s effort to keep hikers out of their grazing lands. Although these are public BLM lands, ranchers lease them and employ hardworking dogs to protect their livestock. These dogs are by no means considered “pets.” Don’t go through the gate, and stay on the trail that passes to the right of the gate and fence. The trail begins to climb slightly on the cone’s east side, offering nice views of the Pine Valley Mountains and Diamond Valley. As the trail summits a saddle on the south side, the switchbacks up the cone begin. These are the latest additions to the trail made by BLM and state park staff. Before, you had to climb a steep trail to the cone’s summit while being careful not to slip on the loose cinders. Walking uphill on cinders is like walking on ball bearings. And even though the switchbacks help, it’s still steep, and you can easily lose your footing, so take it slowly.
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When you get to the summit, you’ll have fantastic views of Snow Canyon and the surrounding area! If you continue your hike going downhill and to the north side of the crater, you can then climb down into the center of the crater. When you’re done looking around, simply retrace your steps by following the same trail back the way you came.
veyo pies near the veyo volcano Since you’re so close, why not see yet another cinder cone by heading north on Highway 18 for five miles to visit the town of Veyo and the Veyo Volcano? This is also a cinder cone, but there is no hiking trail to the top. In the town of Veyo, however, there is a tasty way to replace some of the calories you just burned on the hike by visiting Veyo Pies and indulging in a piece of their trademark “volcano pie.” Cheers, and Happy Exploring!V If you’re more interested in clicking the mouse on your computer or raising the remote control to your TV, check out our virtual hike video on YouTube by searching for “Santa Clara Volcano Hike” by BackRoadsWest. Also, visit our travel blog at www.BackRoadsWest.com/blog to get even more ideas on places to hike so you can lose those extra holiday pounds while enjoying nature. You just might see us out there doing the same thing!
fantastic views of snow canyon from the summit January / February 2024 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | 65
TENNIS TNT - tips-n-tricks by Donna Eads
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s the weather gets colder, everything slows down. The balls don’t bounce as high or fast, the racquets feel less responsive, and the player is at risk for more injuries. Due to the decreased temperatures, it’s a good idea to take the time before a match to warm up properly. First, work on your footwork by trotting along the lines of the court and maybe adding a couple of jumps or lunges over the lines. Only after the leg muscles are warm can stretching exercises be done. The same is true for the upper body. Start at the net with easy volleys, and slowly move back to the baseline for ground strokes at about half speed. Move back towards the net, and hit the overhead about five times, staying at half pace. Finally, practice the serve on both sides at least 10 times to let the shoulder muscles warm up. Here are a few tips for a great serve. Focus on tossing the ball in the same place each time, and keep to a routine for every serve. Never feel
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pressured to hit a bad toss, and always pick a spot to serve to, such as the “T” or your opponent’s left foot. This is the one time the server is in complete control of the point, and this focus on a spot improves your consistency. An easy routine for a serve is to check for the correct grip, bounce the ball, pick a target in the service box, take a deep breath, rock back while tossing, and swing forward into the court. Breathe out. Repeat. It is true that players must play at the pace of the server within a reasonable time frame. At the U.S. Open, there was a problem with both a server and a receiver. They both took too much time. The server bounced the ball repeatedly and exceeded the time clock. The receiver was not aware or ignored that the server was ready. Both of these actions cost these players a point first and then a game, and more problems will follow.V See you on the courts! Donna Eads
If you live in the Mesquite area, meet me at Hafen Park on Saturdays at 8:30 a.m. for a free hour-long clinic to work on your game.
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music! music! music! by Terry Marquart
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usic! Music! Music! The CasaBlanca showroom exploded with wonderful sounds on November 18, 2023, as the Southern Nevada Symphony Orchestra (SNSO) opened its inaugural concert for the 2023–2024 concert season. The audience was rewarded with music from various musical genres. Aficionados of classical music were pleased to hear The Marriage of Figaro by W. A. Mozart, “Marche Militaire Francaise” from the Algerian Suite by Camille Saint-Saens, Op. 60 and Music for the Royal Fireworks by George Frederic Handel, and finally, Ludwig van Beethoven’s “Second Movement” of Symphony No. 7. The audience thoroughly enjoyed “The Hallelujah Chorus” from The Messiah by Handel and "Celtic Carol" by Robert Smith, both pieces serving to announce the upcoming holiday season.
Veterans attending the concert were recognized as The Battle Hymn of the Republic filled the concert hall. The concert
Susan Thiriot is welcomed as the new conductor of the orchestra.
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was opened as special guest trumpeters (who are members of TAPPS) played "The Star-Spangled Banner." Our guests, accompanied by the SNSO, also performed a peppy rendition of "Bugler’s Holiday" by Leroy Anderson. The TAPPS group is a not-for-profit organization of trumpet players who are committed to seeing that there is a live performance of “Taps” at the funeral of every veteran.
For the 2023–2024 concert year, the SNSO has welcomed Susan Thiriot as its conductor. Susan is well known in the Nevada and Utah music communities for her skills in conducting and performing. She has a bachelor’s degree in music education and a master’s in music conducting and has previously been a music educator with the Clark County School District. Susan has been warmly received by the SNSO and remarks that her objective is to “play something beautiful.” She also comments that “the SNSO is a special blend of musicians who have a high-quality performance for their community.” In addition, she is “excited to see all of the musicians coming to rehearsal, improving and spending time to excel.”
in overdrive, our improvement has been so marked. It seems as if we’re committed to spending the time needed to become better musicians.” Jeanne Bushnell, a flutist, comments that she “is looking forward to the upcoming concerts and really loves the energy of the conductor.” Percussionist Chuck Hanson says, “Susan Thiriot has brought a new energy to the symphony, and her methods are bringing out the best in every musician. We are all excited about the season to come and look forward to giving you our very best.” Stephanie Vogel, our music librarian and also a flutist, states, “We’re having a great time making some good music.” The SNSO is energetically moving on into the 2023–2024 season and beyond.V
As the SNSO moves forward with its concert season, several members of the orchestra offer comments exemplifying their thoughts on the first concert and the coming concert season. Robert Northrup of the trumpet section reflects, “This year, we’re
The SNSO thanks its many friends and supporters who, over the years, have made this symphony what it is today. SNSO invites you to come to our next concerts on February 17, 2024, and April 4, 2024. We look forward to seeing you then.
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view on PETS
It Turns Out,
You CAN Teach an Old Dog New Tricks! by Anita DeLelles, LMT
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hy does my dog need training? It seems obvious, but we hear this question a lot. The short answer is simple. Training creates a bond, friendship, and mutual understanding between the dog and his guardian, leading to a lifelong, healthy relationship. When you have this harmony, it reduces stress for both of you, eliminating small aggravations that can grow into an unmanageable nuisance! Too often, our help is only requested after bad habits have been formed and are making a dog difficult to manage. It’s basically a communication problem, and the good news is it can be fixed! But starting early with good quality training is the ideal plan. Studies show that having a well-trained, happy dog that is relaxed and responsive means more pleasure from dog ownership. As a result, training strengthens the dog-human bond and establishes a close, enjoyable relationship. And there’s the added perk of impressing your friends with a dog that loves to show off its perfect manners! Manage Behavior Positive reinforcement training teaches basic commands through a rewardbased training technique. Shock collars, choke collars, and other punishmentbased techniques utilize fear and break down a dog’s emotional well-being. This actually weakens the bond with your pet. Good training enables you to manage and enjoy your dog at home and in public. With good manners, your dog can become a part of the family, knowing how to greet someone politely at the door, coming back when called, and walking safely under control on a leash without pulling. These are skills that develop with clear, calm communication between owner and dog. Build Social Skills Socialization is one of the most important skills a dog should master early in their puppyhood. Learning how to respond to other dogs—what is acceptable and not acceptable in dog language—is an essential life lesson both owners and dogs need to understand. Social skills will allow your dog to cope and behave well during everyday occasions, such as encountering other dogs during walks, veterinary visits, boarding, and in playgroups. Knowing how to read when your dog signals stress, discomfort, and anxiety will allow you to manage situations that arise and avoid confrontations. After a puppy’s second set of vaccines, he will be ready to join a guided puppy social class. In these classes, puppies will be introduced to new sounds, other puppies, people, distractions, and
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smells. A trainer will introduce these new experiences in a positive and rewarding environment. With older or adopted dogs or your current family dog, it is never too late to retrain and manage your dog’s response to external situations. You can actually teach old dogs new tricks! Doggie daycare or dog parks are NOT places where dogs can safely learn to socialize, and one bad experience with another dog and/or owner can have life-long repercussions. Attend Group Training Classes Training classes are fun for both you and your dog. The exercises taught are stimulating and engaging. Even if your dog has perfect manners, training classes are available at all levels to teach new skills and reinforce current skills. WOOF! Wellness Center & Training Academy offers classes such as Puppy Socials, Basic and Advanced Obedience, Recall & Place Training, and even a Tricks class. Group and one-onone options are offered. Their Loose Leash training class ends in an interactive group hike through a scenic local state park. The opportunity to consult your trainer while on a hike with real-time obstacles is invaluable. This can also help address your own training difficulties. If your goal is to prepare your dog to be a service dog (trained to do specific tasks for you) or a therapy dog (one that visits nursing homes or hospitals), it all begins with basic obedience training and learning real-life skills. Dogs with advanced training can get their AKC Canine Good Citizen certificates and so much more. Whether your dog is old, young, or somewhere in-between, it is never too late to refresh skills, learn new ones, or just hang out with other dogs and like-minded pet owners in a training environment.V For more information on health and training for your pet, visit www.WoofCenter.com. Call (435) 275-4536 or stop by WOOF! Wellness Center & Training Academy at 3199 Santa Clara Drive in Santa Clara, Utah.
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view on OUTDOORS
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Fire Lookout Towers
Eyes on the Forest by Karen L. Monsen
“Where there’s smoke, there’s fire” is the maxim
upon which lookout towers in the U.S. were constructed in the early 1900s. More than a century later, many towers are still actively used. A few were converted into overnight rentals, and others exist as isolated reminders of wildland protection and the individuals who watch over our national forests. The fire lookout tower remains part of today’s fire management network that includes unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs or drones), satellites, fire researchers, ground crews, pilots, hot-shots, and volunteers.
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Tree Tower / Photo Credit Vivian Starnes
Early Towers Established by Congress in 1905, the U.S. Forest Service under the Department of Agriculture is responsible for “managing the nation’s forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations.” Following the 1910 “Big Blowup” fire that burned three million acres in Washington, Idaho, and Montana, timberland managers sought to protect their resources by building fire lookout towers—initially just platforms mounted in trees with attached ladders. A surviving tree-ladder lookout is located in Arizona in the Kaibab National Forest. Later lookouts consisted of an enclosed surveillance room on top of a steel structure. With a primary focus on sustaining resources for logging and mining, the Forest Service manages over 193 million acres of forests and grasslands. By 1935, the Forest Service’s fire management policy “stipulated that all wildfires were to be suppressed by 10 a.m. the morning after they were first spotted.” Acknowledging the ecological need for prescribed burns, this policy has since been rescinded. In 1933, during the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) constructed 611 fire-lookout towers and forest access roads across the nation. According to the Forest Fire Lookout Association (http:// www.firelookout.org), at one time, 8,000 towers existed; today fewer than 2,000 remain. 74 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | January / February 2024
Cabin with a View By 1964, smoke-chasing surveillance within the normal 20-mile tower radius was being replaced with infrared detection devices, airplanes, and helicopters. Some towers, along with decommissioned ranger stations, were converted to scenic short-term rentals (available at http://www.recreation.gov). Facilities are Spartan and primitive; guests must bring bedding, flashlights, food, and water and be prepared to transport everything up a 100-foot ladder. Jacob Lake Tower Built in 1934, the Jacob Lake Tower, located in the Kaibab National Forest in Arizona near the Kaibab Plateau Visitor Center, is still used seasonally for fire monitoring in daylight hours (generally June to October). Of the 58 existing actively-used Arizona towers, Dry Park, also in Kaibab National Forest, is one of the three tallest towers, rising to 120 feet. The Jacob Lake Tower, located at an elevation of 8,130 feet, is maintained by the Forest Service and was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1988. The steel tower is 100 feet high with a 7-foot by 7-foot cab on top that includes an Osborne firefinder, which is a large round instrument modeled after an 1840 device invented by Sir Francis Ronalds to combat London fires. The Osborne firefinder was created in 1915 by William Osborne, a Forest Service employee in Oregon, and consists of a topographic map mounted onto a horizontal table with a circular rotating rim marked with degrees for calculating the fire location. From the Jacob Lake Tower, fire locations are relayed to a dispatcher in Williams, Arizona, who then contacts appropriate ground and air units.
Jacob Lake Lookout Tower/ Photo Credit Karen L Monsen
Osborne Firefinder / Photo Credit Brad Eells, Forest Fire Lookout Association
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Kaibab Visitor Center The Kaibab Visitor Center (https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/kaibab) is located where Arizona Highway 67 intersects Highway 89A and splits to go to the Grand Canyon’s North Rim or Marble Canyon/Lees Ferry. The visitor center provides information, maps, and area history, including fire tower photos. In October of 2023, national forest workers Deirdre Apple and Tara Strong reported the completion of upgrades to the center’s photo displays. Volunteers and financial support from a nonprofit partner organization, the Public Lands Interpretive Association, contributed to the upgrades. Future plans are in the works for school outreach programs focusing on fire management that could include a visit to nearby Jacob Lake Tower. Mega-fires & Prevention Eyes in the sky and on the ground benefit from technological advancements, including monitoring by satellites and UAVs. Whereas personal drones are prohibited near active fires, many states embrace UAVs to capture landscape thermal images. Congress is considering language in Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization bills to expand UAVs for wildland firefighting.
Kaibab Visitor Center / Photo Credit Karen L. Monsen
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University of California, Davis, professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering Zhaodan Kong believes waiting until smoke is spotted to identify fires is too late to stop fast-moving infernos like those in California in 2021 where 8,835 fires burned 2,568,948 acres. In last year’s fire, 98 died and 3,000 structures were damaged or destroyed in Maui. Additionally, the Maui and California fires may have been ignited by downed or faulty power lines and could have been prevented with better line monitoring.
Jacob Lake Tower Sign / Photo Credit Karen L. Monsen
As of October 2023, Canada’s Natural Resources Department reported fires still burning, making this Canada’s most destructive wildfire season recorded, with 29 mega-fires burning over 45.7 million acres—more than 5% of the entire Canadian forest area. Professor Kong is working on integrated technologies for UAVs to monitor temperature, humidity, and wind speed to identify high-risk areas before fires start. NASA and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration satellites and surveillance planes already provide a big-picture view of active fire movement. UAVs can routinely sweep areas for elevated particulate matter, carbon dioxide, and thermal surges to pinpoint hotspots, including faulty electric lines before they ignite dry vegetation. The small maneuverable UAVs are cheaper than planes or helicopters and are a growing part of forest management, wildland fire prevention, and fire-fighting networks. Fire lookout towers symbolize human vigilance and dedication to protecting natural resources, and retired towers offer inspirational birds-eye views of the magnificent landscapes the towers protect. Smoke-spotters remain essential for today’s integrated fire management teams, where mechanical and aeronautical specialists are joining to create new tools to understand, monitor, and co-exist with one of nature’s most powerful ecological forces—fire.V January / February 2024 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | 77
New Year, New View And 96 Shiny New Apartments for Mesquite at Hafen Village by Katie Coleman “We are truly a diamond in the desert.” There are no truer words than these from City of Mesquite Mayor Al Litman. With the shine and sparkle of a community like Mesquite comes inevitable growth. Smart, collaborative decision making by local leadership helps ensure Mesquite’s glimmer continues, and investing in housing is paramount when it comes to planning for the short and long-term success of any community. “What Mesquite is doing is exemplary,” says Bill Brewer, executive director of Nevada Rural Housing (NRH). “By making a 78 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | January / February 2024
commitment to housing, the City is helping create a healthy and thriving ‘ecosystem.’ Meaning, we’re all on the housing ladder… some on the homeownership rung, some on the rental rung, and some needing a little more help to get going and move up that ladder. And you’ve got to have the right rungs in place to make the ecosystem work.” Nevada Rural Housing is just one of several development partners the City has brought to the table to help with its housing ecosystem—partnership is a keyword for the success
Hafen Village Rendering, Entrance
of the overall mission. NRH is the housing authority that serves all of Nevada’s 15 rural counties, and when it comes to financing opportunities for housing, it also serves the rural parts of Washoe and Clark Counties, including Mesquite. This means NRH offers its homeownership programs in the City (learn more about them at HomeAtLastNV.org) and is turning its additional proof of partnership into 96 units of rental housing located at 850 West Hafen Lane in Mesquite. Hafen Village Apartments offers one, two, and three-bedroom units ranging from 688 to 1,176 square feet that feature patios or January / February 2024 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | 79
Nov. 11, 2022 Hafen Village Groundbreaking L to R: Roger Mancebo, Nevada Rural Housing Vice Chairman of the Board; former City of Mesquite Councilman George Gault; Mike Wichmann, B&H Construction Senior Project Manager; Beth Dunning, Nevada Rural Housing Community Development Director; Bill Brewer, Nevada Rural Housing Executive Director; City of Mesquite Mayor Al Litman; Nia Germa, Nevada Housing Division Affordable Housing Advocate; Hector Lizaola, Regional Representative, Office of Senator Catherine Cortez Masto
balconies, extra storage, and air conditioning. Community spaces include a dog park, community garden, playground, computer lab, library, laundry room, fitness room, an entertaining space with a kitchen, and barbeque and picnic areas. Planned, constructed, and managed by NRH, Hafen Village Apartments will serve working families at or below 50% of the area median income (AMI) in the community. A person at 50% AMI in Mesquite earns approximately $17 per hour—an amount well above minimum wage. “Hafen Village provides a much-needed housing product for this community,” Brewer adds. “Those working in our communities need an affordable place to live to keep things running for all of us. Call it affordable, call it workforce, call it housing—it’s what’s needed.” Housing that serves this income segment requires significant financial and community support to come to fruition. Hafen Village was only made possible by mission-minded partners. The City of Mesquite donated the 4.93-acre parcel to NRH in 80 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | January / February 2024
order to promote economic development and the creation of new affordable rental options. The undertaking will include 25 project-based vouchers from the Southern Nevada Regional Housing Authority. Additionally, Clark County provided HOME funds for the project, and the Nevada Housing Division provided funding through National Housing Trust Funds and low-income housing tax credits. Wells Fargo served as the investor, contributing over $26 million in equity. The Hafen Village project is a truly collaborative effort between multiple municipalities, developers, and investors. That is the thing about gems—they must be mined and polished, and it takes resources to do so. Communities like the City of Mesquite have realized the need to be ready for continued growth. Hafen Village Apartments is a shining example of how to deliver strategic, thoughtful housing solutions through partnership and collaboration.V The 96-unit complex will celebrate its grand opening in the spring of 2024. If you have questions about Hafen Village, including wait list inquiries, call (702) 702-4418.
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view on EDUCATION
Spring into Creativity with Exciting Community Education Classes by Susie Knudsen
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his spring, Southern Utah University's (SUU) Community Education program is full of hands-on classes designed to inspire your creativity and enhance your skills. Choose from many offerings to help you take up a new hobby, such as letterpress printing, hosting, event planning, or watercolor painting.
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Prepare for your summer garden with two returning classes covering planning, planting, and preserving what you grow. "As spring breathes life into the world around us, engaging in creative learning fosters self-discovery, growth, and development," says Melynda Thorpe, executive director of SUU Community and Workforce Development. "Our spring classes are designed to get you out with friends and loved ones to learn something new and bloom along with the season."
If your artistic inclinations lean towards the tactile, explore the world of letterpress printing in our new four-week course, "The Art of Letterpress Printing," starting on January 23rd. Immerse yourself in the fundamentals of operating a press, typesetting, and linoleum carving. Blend typography with hand-carved linoleum imagery as you design and print your own unique work. It's time to bring your ideas to life and leave your mark in print.
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Learn the basics of watercolor painting with returning instructor and local artist Larry Lawoski on January 18. From transparency and color theory to composition and style, this class will teach you how to turn your vision into an art piece you’ll be proud to display. On January 15, Lawoski will also teach the Intermediate American Sign Language class for those ready to build on existing language skills. If you’re planning a spring wedding, consider taking our new "How to Host the Perfect Dinner Party" class, where you'll discover the art of hosting impeccable dinner parties and intimate gatherings. Led by a seasoned executive chef in a professional kitchen, this interactive four-week course starts on February 6 and will guide you through the secrets of crafting crowd-pleasing dishes, creating stylish table settings, and designing impressive plating. For gardeners looking to improve the quality of their soil and find out what vegetable varieties grow well in Cedar City’s climate, some gardening classes are returning with instructors Neal and Valerie Pack. The “Gardening from the Ground Up” class starts on February 7 and will help you prepare your yard. “Preserving the Harvest” starts March 7 and will help you make the most of your produce so you can enjoy it year-round. Learn many preservation techniques, including freezing, canning, and dehydration.
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Pick up a pickleball class starting on April 29, and get moving with this growing, popular sport. Learn techniques for serving the ball, basic grip, forehand and backhand hitting, and the basic rules of the game with instructor Jeremy Waite.V Take the opportunity to spring into creativity with community classes. Enroll today, and cultivate your skills in a fun and engaging way. For more information or to register for a class, visit www.suu.edu/wise or call (435) 865-8259. SUU’s Community Education program offers classes, workshops, and events for the purpose of generating fun cultural and educational opportunities for those who love to learn. While increasing participant knowledge, programs provide non-credit experiences for community members wishing to develop new hobbies, skills, and areas of personal interest.
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view on GOLF
5 Tips
for a Better Golf Game in 2024 by Rob Krieger, PGA
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tarting off the new year doing the same ole thing to improve your golf game while expecting better results isn’t the greatest plan. Let’s try to be a little open-minded and try a few new things this year. Maybe, just maybe, you might have more fun and shoot some lower scores.
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Get the ball in play off the tee It doesn’t matter what club you use off the tee as long as you can get at least 100 yards safely in the fairway. Yes, hitting it farther can make a huge difference, and you can work to get the ball farther down the fairway, but YOU CANNOT TAKE PENALTIES OFF THE TEE. Use whatever club will get you the STRAIGHTEST (doesn’t even have to look good), then the farthest. Try hitting your tee
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shot 50–75% of its normal expected distance. For example, if you normally hit your driver 200 yards, try hitting the driver 150–175 yards but in play. Also, another option is to take a different club and swing it to a distance that you know will get you in play. Check your ego at the door, and play smarter.
2
Practice with a purpose When you practice the mechanics of your golf swing, you should be doing more drills rather than hitting balls and grooving the same bad habits. Also, when you do go to the practice facility, have a plan for your session, set goals to achieve, set a timeframe to complete, and have fun doing it.
3 4
Rounds of golf Get on the course and use the course as a range, meaning don’t always go play a round of golf and keep score. Go out and practice and use the course to hit different shots. The golf course is the best place to practice, so you can try different situations, lies, and clubs. I recommend using different colored balls to differentiate between your shots so it is easier to remember what shots did what. NEVER HOLD UP OTHER PLAYERS IN YOUR GROUP OR BEHIND YOU. Focus on your finish Instead of trying to perfect your swing, direct your attention to the way you are ending your swing. There are many ways to swing the club for different shots, but all shots must have balance and control. Otherwise, consistency will never happen. Your finish is the roadmap to what happened during the swing. If you struggle to finish properly, try these tips: a) Shorten your backswing to a half or quarter swing, and then work your way back up to a full swing. b) Slow down your swing to 25%, 10%, or even 5% power, using a super slow-motion swing. What you think is slow really may not be. c) Go back to shorter clubs for better control. Weight should always be
forward on the front foot, and the trail shoulder should get past the ball.
5
Go play from 100 yards Play a round of golf starting at 100 yards, and see if you can shoot 27 or less—that’s three shots or fewer per hole. All better players should be able to do this. For higher-handicapped players, the bar is a little higher, and they need to break a score of 36. Sorry, folks, if you can’t break 36 from 100 yards, you need to focus on your shorter swings. Stop worrying about your full swing, and start working on all shots inside 100 yards, including your putting. A great way to do this on the course is to hit your drive, pick it up from wherever it ends up, take your ball to the 100-yard marker, and start counting your shots from there (don’t count your tee shot). By trying to shoot 36 or less, you learn how to get pars, birdies, and even eagles. Playing this way is guaranteed to improve your overall game and be much more fun whether you are a junior, senior, or somewhere in between. Have a great new year, and as always… Fairways and Greens!V
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Hilaria in colonial-style dress
Mementos that Matter
by Linda Faas
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hopping is a fascinating experience in foreign countries. Selecting a few special keepsakes provides lasting memories of a journey.
In many countries, purchases of crafts by tourists give the opportunity for income and education to women. The impact of such purchases can bring real change to women who have limited ways to support themselves and their children. On 88 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | January / February 2024
a recent trip to Namibia, Africa, I saw firsthand how unique mementos can provide a livelihood for crafters. Namibia is not a poor country. It has abundant natural resources, incredible beauty, and astounding wildlife parks that afford a reasonable standard of living for many of its 2.5 million citizens. Yet, climbing the ladder of success is nearly out of reach for a portion of its people who are still emerging from a colonial
and tribal past that moved much of the country’s wealth into the hands of a few. When Namibia became an independent democracy in 1990, it emerged as a bright spot in southern Africa, but several factors took a toll on its people’s ability to thrive. Most of Namibia is desert—huge expanses of barren desert that boast some of the oldest and highest sand dunes on earth. The Kalahari and Namib Deserts collide to form a vast area of stunning scenery and geologic wonders that yield mineral wealth. Curiously, its few rivers that spill into the Atlantic Ocean are littered with diamonds and rubies. Those gems are dredged up from the river bottoms and ocean floor in areas that are strictly off-limits to all except the employees of foreign companies, like De Beers, that have controlled the region for the past 150 years. Subsistence farmers and nomadic tribal herders migrate to towns and cities when they can’t survive on their traditional land. This puts great pressure on the urban areas that cannot immediately absorb them, so many live in “townships” in makeshift dwellings with minimal access to basic services. A visit to its township is a tour offered to visitors at Swakopmund, an Atlantic coastal city where international celebrities own posh second homes.
Dredging for diamonds Traffic jam in Namib desert
Only a mile inland from the coast, in the desert adjacent to the developed city, the government draws out rough neighborhoods where new tribal migrants may cling to the fringes of the urban job market. This township is where migrants cobble together shelters of castoff materials. Central water sources serve several square blocks of the community, and residents line up to fill buckets and
Township water source
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plastic jugs to tote home. Public restrooms are similarly located. Electricity is a luxury. A few meager businesses and open markets serve the population of several thousand residents. Finding work that pays a living wage is tough for the undereducated. Women are often the last to find such work because they must care for their children. Thus, a helping hand from someone like Hilaria, a Herero tribe shaman woman, makes the difference between dead-end poverty and hope. She is a traditional woman with modern moxie who provides child care for the township. She invites paying tourists to visit her home where the tour guide provides an educational narrative about the life of the Herero people. To her guests, Hilaria sells small dolls dressed to resemble her own long, colonial-style dress that was adopted when Victorian-age Europeans demanded that tribal women wear western clothing in the towns. The dolls are made by the mothers of Hilaria’s young charges, so everyone benefits from this enterprise. Katrina, an educated Namibian woman, has established a school and shelter in Swakopmund Township. She teaches reading and writing to women and children who make simple crafts while tending a nice garden planted in plastic containers. Her building is made of sand-filled plastic bottles stacked in adobe-like mud. An orphan named Ben is her gardener, earning his keep while living in the garden shed. Craft sales help subsidize a meager income for the group.
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Acapella singers
Lunch at Hafeni Restaurant
Nearby, Hafeni Restaurant is run by a local church and employs workers who cook and present musical entertainment for their guests. The singers have recorded a CD that they hawk to the diners. The lunch of traditional wild game short ribs and greens is delicious and includes a side of fried grubs for those with strong stomachs. Windhoek, Namibia’s capital city, is the gateway to Etosha National Park, home to the desert elephant, black rhino, lion, and huge herds of game. Windhoek is located in the cooler uplands in the north end of the country. Handsome churches and public buildings reveal its Dutch and German-dominated past. The sprawling city boasts modern condominiums that cover the surrounding hills, while herds of springbok, zebra, and other wild animals are still seen roaming across the open land. Beside the local reservoir on the edge of Windhoek, a dirt trail branches off the paved road and leads to Penduka. This walled complex of buildings is a nonprofit school founded 30 years ago by a Namibian woman and a Dutch woman who saw the critical need for training and jobs for local women. The small seed they planted has become a secure village that January / February 2024 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | 91
Abstract sunset A doll made by Hilaria
Katrina's school
Pillow - runner - napkins
Fine leather art pieces
includes a hotel (listed on Tripadvisor), restaurant, school, and workshop where women design and manufacture textile products, pottery, and jewelry fashioned from crushed glass. Their batik and embroidered goods are extraordinary. This highly organized and well-funded operation supports hundreds of families. The women who have received training at Penduka are encouraged to share their knowledge with their communities and even start their own ventures as they obtain the entrepreneurial skills to succeed. Many international corporations, including Canadian tour company G Adventures, contribute funding and international exposure 92 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | January / February 2024
for Penduka, whose fine wares are sold worldwide on their website, www.penduka.com. Rustic or sophisticated, the items fashioned by Namibian women are distinctive and local. Bringing these mementos home gives deeper meaning to the visual memories gathered in that beautiful country and helps talented women reach for a better life.V Editor’s note: ViewOn Magazine is grateful for the many additions Linda Faas has made to our publication over the years. This article is her fifty-fifth! Thank you for your contributions, Linda!
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view on INSPIRATION
a fresh start for a fabulous you by Judi Moreo
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he clock struck midnight, the confetti fell, and fireworks lit up the sky. It was that magical moment when the calendar flipped to a new year, and we all took a collective deep breath, filled with the promise of fresh beginnings. Yes, it's the time-honored tradition of setting resolutions, of vowing to be a better version of ourselves in the coming year. But let's skip the clichés and dig deeper. This isn't just a new year; it's a new you, and you're worth the effort.
Reflecting on the Past
Before diving into the exhilarating journey of selfimprovement, it's essential to pause for a moment of reflection. The past year may have been filled with ups and downs, smiles and tears, but each experience has shaped you into the incredible person you are today. Take a moment to appreciate your resilience, growth, and the valuable lessons you've learned. Remember, the new year isn't about leaving the old you behind but about evolving into a stronger, wiser, and more self-aware individual.
Embrace Your Uniqueness
While setting goals and making plans for the future is crucial, it's equally important to celebrate your uniqueness. You're one of a kind, and that's something to be proud of. Don't fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others; it's a recipe for disappointment. Embrace your quirks, talents, and flaws. These are the very things that make you extraordinary. 94 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | January / February 2024
Define Your Path
Now, let's talk about those resolutions. Instead of setting vague and overwhelming goals, focus on creating a clear path for yourself. Start by setting specific, achievable objectives. For example, if you're looking to improve your physical health, don't just say, "I want to get in shape." Define it with "I will jog for 30 minutes three times a week" or "I will swap one unhealthy snack for a piece of fruit every day." By breaking down your goals into manageable steps, you're more likely to stay motivated and see results. Plus, it gives you a sense of accomplishment as you check off each milestone along the way.
Embrace Growth, Not Perfection
Perfection is an illusion and can be a paralyzing force in your life. Instead of striving for perfection, aim for growth. Embrace the process of evolving, learning, and improving. Understand that setbacks are not failures; they are opportunities to grow stronger. When you shift your focus from perfection to progress, you'll feel more content and less stressed.
Nurture Your Passions
One surefire way to make the new year your best year yet is to reconnect with your passions. What makes your heart sing? What activities bring you joy and fulfillment? Whether it's painting, writing, dancing, or cooking, devote time to the things that light up your soul. Make 2024 the year you prioritize your passions and allow them to flourish.
Expand Your Horizons
Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. The new year is the perfect time to explore uncharted territory. Take up a new hobby, travel to a place you've never been, or meet people who challenge and inspire you. Life is an adventure, and it's filled with endless opportunities for growth and exploration.
Practice Self-Compassion
It's easy to be hard on yourself when things don't go as planned. But in 2024, practice self-compassion. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you'd offer a friend in a challenging situation. Remember that it's okay to stumble and make mistakes; it's all part of the journey.
Create a Support System
Change can be challenging, and it's always easier when you have a support system in place. Share your goals with friends or family who can offer encouragement and accountability. Join groups or communities of people who share your interests and values. Together, you can inspire and uplift one another to achieve your dreams.
Celebrate Your Successes
Every step forward is a reason to celebrate. Small victories are the building blocks of major accomplishments. Take the time to acknowledge and revel in your achievements, no matter how insignificant they may seem. Recognizing your successes can boost your confidence and keep you motivated.
Live in the Present Moment
As you embark on your journey of self-improvement, remember to live in the present moment. The past is gone, and the future is yet to come. Cherish the here and now. Savor the simple joys, the laughter, and the moments with loved ones. A new you doesn't mean abandoning your past; it means creating a brighter, more vibrant present. In conclusion, the new year brings with it the promise of a new you. Embrace change, but do it in a way that respects your unique qualities and strengths. Set clear goals, strive for growth, and let your passions flourish. Explore new horizons, practice self-compassion, and build a support system. Celebrate your successes and live in the present moment. In 2024, make a commitment to yourself—be the best version of you, and make it a year to remember.V
Judi Moreo is an author, a motivational speaker, an NLP practitioner, an Achievement Coach, and an entrepreneur. You can contact Judi by email at judi@judimoreo.com or by phone at (702) 283-4567. January / February 2024 | VIEW ON MAGAZINE | 95
BUSINESS CARD DIRECTORY
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BUSINESS CARD DIRECTORY
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BUSINESS CARD DIRECTORY
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ADVERTISING DIRECTORY Aguilar Mobile Carwash. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Mesquite Department of Athletics and Leisure Services. . . 81
Aliante Healthcare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Mesquite Fine Arts Center and Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
All Around Mesquite, Nevada. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Mesquite Tile and Flooring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
All Secure Storage, LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Mesquite Veterinary Clinic - Peggy Purner, DVM. . . . . . . . 97
Arizona Horse Ride . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Moapa Valley Builders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
C & J Shutters, Blinds and Flooring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Mortgage Mate, LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
City of St. George Golf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
MVP Productions - Kris Zurbas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Clea's Moapa Valley Realty. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Nevada Bank and Trust. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Conestoga Golf Club / 1880 Grille. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Odyssey Landscaping. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Deep Roots Harvest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Back Cover
Oral & Facial Surgery Institute of Mesquite. . . . . . . . . . . 1
Desert Pain Specialists. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Parade of Homes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
ERA - Sharon Szarzi. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Pioneer Storage/Scenic Self Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Eureka Casino Resort - Celebrate With Us. . . . . . . . . . . IFC
Pirates Landing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Eureka Casino Resort - Choose Your Ride . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Polaris Can Am Honda World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Farmers Insurance - Bill Mitchell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Polynesian Pools / Poly Pro Pool Resurfacing . . . . . . . . . 15
Gallery 873 Coyote Gulch Art Village at Kayenta . . . . . . . 40
Prestige Golf Cars. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Grease Monkey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
RealtyOneGroup - Beverly Powers Uhlir . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Great Clips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
RealtyOneGroup - Deb Parsley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
H&R Block . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24, 84
Red Rock Golf Instruction - Rob Krieger. . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Hangey's Custom Upholstering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Reliance Connects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Heavenly Gift Shoppe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Re/Max Ridge Realty - Dave Neufeld. . . . . . . . . . . . 50, 51
HedgeHog Electric and Solar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Richens Eye Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Highland Manor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Senior Center Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Hitch It L.L.C. / Stationary Hitch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Shop, Eat, Play Moapa Valley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38, 39
Hole Foods Bakery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Silver Rider . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Ink & Amethyst. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
SnapShots West Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Inside Scoop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Southern Nevada Symphony Orchestra . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Intermountain Golf Cars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back Cover
St. George Musical Theater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
J.R. Morgan Glass & Glazing, LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
St. George Regional Airport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
JSL Iceberg Air Conditioning & Heating. . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
State Farm - Lisa Wilde. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Judi Moreo – Speaker, Author, & Coach. . . . . . . . . . . 90, 97
TDS Telecom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Ken Garff Mesquite Ford - Dave Heath. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
The Front Porch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Kitchen Encounters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
The Lindi Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Kuppa Joe Coffee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Tuacahn Amphitheatre . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Medicare and Healthcare Insurance - Team Bundy . . . . . . 91
Washington County Fair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Mesa Valley Estates Assisted Living and Memory Care. . . . 65
Western Tri-State / Mesquite Lumber / Ace Hardware . . . 56
Mesa View Regional Hospital. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Xtreme Stitch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Mesquite Branding and Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Yogi Window Cleaning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
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