ViewOn Magazine Holiday Issue November-December 2025

Holiday Issue

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

November 1 - December 31, 2025 Volume 18 – Issue 6

PUBLISHER & EDITOR

Kathy Lee

MANAGING EDITOR / CREATIVE DIRECTOR Erin Eames

COPY EDITORS

Elisa Eames Rayma Davis

WRITERS

Donna Eads, Kaylee Pickering, Taylor Smith, Mollie Halterman, Randi Fuller, Ashley Centers, Rob Krieger, Anita DeLelles, Judi Moreo, Nathan Hughes, Karen L. Monsen, Jean Watkins, Ruth Dickie, Terri Fitzgerald, Charlotte Sirianni, David Cordero, Shanna Wylie, Yoli Bell, Lisa Larson, Natalie Allred, Deborah Benham, Paul Benedict, Kimberly Fletcher, Susi Lafaele, Marie Mickelson

ADVERTISING SALES Kathy Lee

ADVERTISING EMAIL ads@ViewOnMagazine.com

SUPPORT STAFF Bert Kubica Cheryl Whitehead

DISTRIBUTION ViewOn Magazine Staff

PUBLISHED BY ViewOn Magazine, Inc. Office (702) 346-8439 Fax (702) 346-4955

GENERAL INQUIRIES ads@ViewOnMagazine.com info@ViewOnMagazine.com ONLINE ViewOnMagazine.com Facebook Instagram: @ViewOnMagazine

Letter from the Editor

Dear Readers,

Happy Veterans Day, Happy Thanksgiving, and Happy Holidays! This holiday issue marks the completion of ViewOn’s 19th year in circulation! We are proud to serve southern Utah, Nevada, and Arizona. During this season, there is often a focus on light, and this issue reflects that. Despite the darkness in the world, we are surrounded by both literal and figurative light within our communities. We all share light and receive it.

Experience the magic of brilliant light displays offered by many local cities. See the lights, ride the train at Thunder Junction, visit a dazzling desert garden, and peruse the winter art exhibits in St. George. Support artisans, entrepreneurs, and crafters while enjoying light displays and live music at the Washington County Holiday Market.

Our Design article demonstrates how to light up the world using environmentally-friendly decor, while our Outdoors article explores possible origins of the biblical Star of Bethlehem. And as always, the annual Parade of Lights food drive illuminates the streets of Mesquite.

Metaphorical lights of the season shine just as brightly as the literal ones. We all have our own innate light, and our Inspiration article encourages us to recognize and nurture this light.

As the Mesquite Cancer HELP Society celebrates its 25th anniversary, it gives light to those struggling with cancer. A Veterans Day staple, One Thousand Flags Over Mesquite commemorates the light, service, and sacrifices of countless veterans. A new plaque in Mesquite recognizes the light spread by suffragist Anne Martin, who was instrumental in securing voting rights for Nevada women six years before the passage of the 19th Amendment.

All around us, individuals, businesses, and organizations provide touches of light to brighten the season. Tuacahn presents its annual Live Nativity and Christmas musical, Mesquite’s Juniper Outpost offers a special celebration on each of the 12 days leading up to Christmas, and Woof! Wellness Center & Training Academy offers drop-in pet classes to accommodate busy holiday schedules.

As a way to say thank you to our advertisers for their loyalty, please support them and send some light their way.

The goodness in our communities defies the bleakness of the world, but I believe we always need more: more kindness, more courtesy, more compassion—more light. During the next two months, empower yourself and others by consciously spreading light to those around you. Embrace what we have in common, and choose to ignore differences that might otherwise separate or divide us.

Wishing you a luminous season,

Editor in Chief

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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 MoreThan Enough and ConquertheBrain Drain. A self-made success, Judi started her first business with $2,000 and a lot of chutzpah. Judi learned to succeed step-by-step over many years and now has a worldwide following of clients who are enjoying outstanding success as a result of her guidance. You can reach Judi at judimoreo@yahoo.com or by calling (702) 609-2075.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

Message from

the Mayor

Established in 1851, Parowan, the “Mother Town of Southern Utah,” is truly a magical place. It is both restorative and inspiring, filled with age-old patriotic traditions, heartwarming history, and wholesome, timeless activities. Parowan is a favorite spot to gather and reconnect with friends and family throughout the holiday season. Neighbors still share bread and garden harvests with one another and wave at cars as they pass down our wide, treelined streets. The celebrations for the holiday season begin in November with the Christmas in the Country Bazaar, the Hometown Holiday Market, the Parowan Art Tour of local studios, the Main Street Candlelight and Caroling Parade, a live Nativity, and the Holiday Light Extravaganza—”Winter Wonderland”—sponsored by the Parowan and Brian Head Area Chamber of Commerce.

Nestled at the base of Brian Head Resort and surrounded by breathtaking national parks—including Cedar Breaks, Zion, Kolob Canyon, and Bryce Canyon—Parowan is picturesque and peaceful. Parowan offers historic buildings, its flag-lined Main Street, wide-open spaces, and hometown touches, such as a barber shop complete with a striped pole, local diners and shops, and a community pool lovingly restored through fundraising efforts. It feels as heartwarming and wholesome as icing-drenched cinnamon rolls, home cooking, and the city’s well-known savory barbecue. Parowan is a delight to the senses and has a way of making everyone feel right at home!

Our community enjoys celebrations year-round: Main Street parades with floats and marching bands; the July Music in the Park series; Old Rock Church Days; artisan festivals; vintage car shows; the Parowan Airport Glider Festival; the Yankee Meadow Half Marathon; and the Labor Day Iron County Fair with its PRCA Pro Rodeo, Mud Bogs, and demolition derby.

Surrounded by pristine parks, scenic trails, panoramic vistas, and cotton-candy sunsets, Parowan is the heart of an outdoor recreation paradise. From hiking and mountain biking to winter sports at Brian Head Resort, southern Utah truly has something for everyone—and it’s easy to see why so many who visit fall in love with the Parowan-Brian Head area.

As the holiday season arrives, may it bring you the blessings of family and friends, laughter and warmth, delicious food, cherished traditions, and memories that will brighten the year ahead. Cheers to holiday magic, and may the choicest blessings be yours in the coming year.

Why I Love Bunkerville

My family, the Hughes', moved to the Virgin Valley in 1896, and over the generations, we’ve seen the town shift and grow while keeping its quiet charm. I was born here and raised my own family here, surrounded by the same desert landscape my ancestors knew.

The sunsets are something special—broad, open skies lit up in deep reds and golds, casting long shadows across the mesa. That view never gets old. It’s not just beautiful; it’s grounding.

Life here moves at its own pace. There’s space to breathe, to think, and to stay connected to the land and the people who’ve shaped it. Watching Bunkerville change over the years has been a reminder that growth doesn’t have to mean losing what matters. It’s a place that holds history in its soil—and for me, that history is personal.

- Marie Mickelson

by Judi Moreo

TLet Your This

he holiday season has always been associated with light. From the glow of candles in windows to twinkling strands on trees, light is woven into our traditions as a symbol of hope, joy, and connection. Yet beyond the decorations, there is a more profound truth worth remembering: no matter how dark life may seem, there is always a light within you—steady, enduring, and ready to shine.

The Light Within Life has its seasons, just like the holidays. Some years feel filled with laughter, abundance, and celebration. Other years, the holidays can arrive with heavy clouds—loss, loneliness, financial worry, or uncertainty can cast shadows over what should feel like the brightest time of year. But here is the miracle: even when clouds gather and the night feels long, the light within you does not go out. It is like the sun hidden behind storm clouds—still shining, still powerful, still present. The storms may obscure it, but they cannot extinguish it.

This inner light is the seed of your true self. It is your spirit, your resilience, your spark of divine possibility. It is the part of you that whispers, “Keep going,” when everything seems overwhelming. It is the warmth in your heart that can comfort others even when you are hurting.

Clouds Are Temporary

We often forget that clouds, no matter how thick, are temporary. They shift, they move, they break apart. Just as the darkest storm eventually passes, so do the trials in our lives. What lasts—what endures—is the brilliance of your inner light.

The challenge is not in creating the light; you already have it. The challenge is in remembering it’s there. During difficult times, we tend to focus so intently on the darkness that we overlook the glow within us. But when we pause, breathe, and look inward, we realize that light is steady and unshakable.

Nourishing the Light

Like any seed, the light within us thrives when it is nourished. How do we feed the flame of our spirit, especially during the holidays?

Practice gratitude. Even in dark seasons, gratitude is like oxygen for the soul. By noticing small blessings—a kind word, a warm cup of tea, a sunrise—we feed the light and remind ourselves of the goodness that still exists.

Choose positive thoughts. Your mind is a factory, consistently producing. If you manufacture worry, fear,

Light Shine Holiday Season

or doubt, you dim your own light. If you create faith, confidence, and hope, your light grows brighter.

Be kind to yourself. Nourishment isn’t only about action— it’s also about compassion. Speak to yourself gently. Permit yourself to rest. Remind yourself that your worth is not defined by perfection.

Share your light. Light grows stronger when it is shared. A smile, a helping hand, or a word of encouragement can spark hope in someone else. And when you share your light, you often discover it shines even brighter within you.

A Season of Illumination

This holiday season, think of your light as a gift not only to yourself but to the world. You may not realize how much someone else needs your presence, your encouragement, or your laughter. You may be the one who helps them see through their own storm clouds.

Remember, the holidays are not about everything being perfect—they are about connection, love, and the reminder that light shines brightest in the darkest places. The smallest candle can illuminate an entire room. In the same way, even one act of kindness or one expression of love can change the atmosphere around you.

The Light Ahead

As the year draws to a close, take time to honor your inner light. Reflect on how it has carried you through challenges. Recognize the moments it gave you strength when you thought you had none left. Acknowledge the times you shared it with others and lifted their spirits. Then, as you look forward to the year ahead, commit to letting your light shine. Do not hide it. Do not dim it to make others comfortable. Do not doubt its power. Trust that it is there, always ready to illuminate your path and guide you toward growth, healing, and joy.

Final Thought

Clouds may come, storms may rage, and the night may sometimes feel endless—but your light is eternal. This holiday season, no matter what you face, let it shine. For in letting your light shine, you not only brighten your own life, but you also help illuminate the world.V

Judi Moreo is a globally recognized success coach, author, and speaker, known for guiding people to unlock their potential and create lives of purpose, confidence, and achievement. Contact Judi at judi@judimoreo.com.

Gather & Glow

The holidays are a time of warmth, wonder, and togetherness—but for hosts, they can also bring a whirlwind of planning, prepping, and pressure. Whether you're welcoming family for Thanksgiving dinner or throwing a festive Christmas soirée, hosting the holidays is about more than setting the table. It's about creating an atmosphere where guests feel loved, memories are made, and the season’s magic comes alive.

Here are 10 thoughtful tips to help you host with heart, grace, and a touch of sparkle:

1 Start with Intention, Not Perfection

Before diving into logistics, take a moment to reflect on what you want your gathering to feel like. Cozy and intimate? Joyful and bustling? Elegant and serene? Setting an intention helps guide your decisions—from decor to menu—and keeps you grounded when things get hectic.

Remember:

Guests won’t remember if the napkins matched the centerpiece, but they will remember how you made them feel.

2 welcome warmly

First impressions set the tone. Greet guests with something comforting—a warm drink, a scented candle burning in the entryway, or soft music playing in the background. A small welcome station with slippers, blankets, or a handwritten note adds a personal touch that says, “You’re home.”

Remember: If guests are staying overnight, stock guest rooms with thoughtful extras - fresh towels, a carafe of water, a holiday treat, and a note with the Wi-Fi password.

3 Plan a Menu around Tradition and Ease

Holiday meals are steeped in traditions, but that doesn’t mean you have to do all of them. Choose a few beloved dishes—Grandma’s stuffing, Dad’s pecan pie—and round them out with simple, seasonal sides. Don’t be afraid to delegate: ask guests to bring a dish or dessert that’s meaningful to them.

Remember: Prep what you can ahead of time, and keep snacks on hand for early arrivals. A cheese board, spiced nuts, or a bowl of clementines can tide guests over while you finish up in the kitchen.

4 Design a Tablescape That Tells a Story

Your table is more than a place to eat—it’s a canvas for connection. Layer textures and colors that reflect the season. For Thanksgiving, try rustic wood, amber glass, and dried florals; for Christmas, opt for velvet runners, evergreen sprigs, and twinkling lights.

Remember: Mix heirloom pieces with modern touches. Use handwritten place cards, vintage china, or ornaments as favors. These details spark conversation and make guests feel cherished.

5 Make Space for Connection

The most memorable moments often happen between the big events. Create cozy corners for conversation, games, or quiet reflection. Set out puzzles, books, or a gratitude journal. Light a fire, dim the lights, and let the magic of togetherness unfold.

Remember: A toast of thanks, a shared memory, or a candlelit moment for loved ones who aren’t present. These gestures deepen the meaning of the gathering.

6 Keep Kids (and Adults) Engaged

If children are part of your gathering, plan a few activities to keep them entertained. Set up a craft table, cookie decorating station, or holiday movie corner. For adults, consider a trivia game, ornament exchange, or storytelling circle.

Remember: These shared experiences create laughter, bonding, and a sense of belonging for guests of all ages.

7

Embrace the Power of Scent

Scent is one of the strongest triggers of memory. Use it to your advantage. Simmer cinnamon sticks and orange peels on the stove, bake cookies just before guests arrive, or light a pine-scented candle near the entryway.

Remember: These aromas evoke nostalgia and create a sensory experience that lingers long after the party ends.

8 Decorate with Heart, Not Haste

You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect home to make the season feel special. Focus on meaningful decor: handmade ornaments, family photos, or a garland of holiday cards. Incorporate natural elements like pinecones, cranberries, and dried citrus for a timeless look.

Remember: If you’re short on time, concentrate on key areas—the entryway, dining table, and living room. A few well-placed touches can transform your space without overwhelming you.

9 Practice the Art of the Exit

Hosting doesn’t end when the last dish is cleared. Send guests off with something sweet—a bag of cookies, a handwritten note, or a small ornament. These parting gifts don’t have to be elaborate; they’re simply a way to say, “Thank you for being here.”

Remember: If guests are staying overnight, offer a simple breakfast the next morning—coffee, pastries, and a cozy place to linger.

10 Give Yourself Grace

Hosting the holidays is a labor of love, but it doesn’t have to be flawless. If the turkey’s dry or the playlist skips, laugh it off. Your guests are there for you—not your perfection. Take breaks, accept help, and savor the moments.

Remember: The holidays are about connection, not comparison. By showing up with warmth and authenticity, you create a space where everyone—including you—can truly enjoy the season.

Final Thoughts:

At its core, hosting the holidays is about creating a sanctuary of love, laughter, and memory. It’s about opening your home and heart, and letting the season’s magic unfold in the simplest, most beautiful ways.

So light the candles, pour the cider, and welcome your guests with joy. Whether your gathering is grand or humble, what matters most is the feeling you create and the love you share.V

The holiday season isn’t just about checking off wish lists— it’s a chance to connect, reflect, and give with intention.

Think Personal, Not Pricey

A thoughtful gift doesn’t have to be extravagant. A handwritten letter, a custom playlist, or a framed photo can carry more emotional weight than the latest gadget. Consider what makes your loved one smile, and build your gift around that.

Support Creators and Causes

Handmade goods, fair-trade items, and small-batch products often come with a deeper purpose. When you buy from independent makers or mission-driven brands, your gift supports real people and communities. It’s a win-win: your recipient gets something unique, and your purchase makes a positive impact.

Give Experiences, Not Just Things

Tickets to a show, a cooking class, or a weekend getaway can create lasting memories. Experiences often outshine material gifts, especially when they’re shared. If you’re shopping for someone who “has everything,” give them something to look forward to.

Make It Matter for Kids

For children, gifts that inspire creativity, curiosity, or kindness go a long way. Books, puzzles, and DIY kits can spark imagination while teaching valuable skills. And don’t underestimate the power of time—an afternoon spent crafting or baking together can be the most cherished gift of all.

This season, let your shopping reflect what the holidays are truly about: love, connection, and generosity. Whether you're wrapping up something handmade, gifting an unforgettable experience, or simply spending time with those who matter most, meaningful giving leaves a lasting impression.

Ready to find gifts that speak from the heart?

Find the perfect gift, and give back to the community when you shop local! Check out the local area shops in our curated holiday shopping guide—where thoughtful treasures and holiday charm await.

Home Decor + Unique Finds

Cozy House

904 W. 1600 S. Street in St. George, Utah.

Step into a warm, farmhouse-inspired space filled with plush throws, rustic signs, and seasonal centerpieces. Cozy House is known for its curated vignettes that make decorating easy and inspiring. During the holidays, expect vintage ornaments, pine-scented candles, and neutral-toned décor that blends seamlessly with any style.

The Cottage by Krumpets

558 E. Riverside Drive Suite, Unit 112 in St. George, Utah. Visit this charming home and gift shop offering holiday decor, home goods, gifts, and other unique items for every season, including a separate kids' cottage for play. Their holiday displays feature a must-see Christmas Village, handmade ornaments, seasonal candles, and whimsical décor that feels like stepping into a storybook. The shop celebrates creativity and community, making it a perfect stop for finding meaningful gifts or unique pieces to brighten your space. Friendly service and a warm atmosphere make every visit memorable.

A utobiography of objects

23 E .St. George Blvd. in St. George, Utah.

Autobiography of Objects (AO) in St. George, Utah, is a boutique home décor destination offering curated, artisanal furnishings and accessories. Created by Jenny Larsen and Eric Hovland, AO features custom pieces, vintage finds, and entertaining essentials in a laid-back yet sophisticated setting. The shop reflects personal style through thoughtfully selected objects that tell a story— your story

Urban Renewal

5 E. St. George Blvd. in St. George, Utah.

Blending modern design with cozy charm, Urban Renewal offers a curated selection of home décor and seasonal accents perfect for holiday sprucing. From minimalist wreaths and artisan candles to stylish table settings and wall art, their inventory reflects a contemporary aesthetic with festive flair.

Real Deals on Home Décor

135 N. 900 E Street in St. George, Utah.

This locally loved shop offers trendy home décor at unbeatable prices. Their holiday inventory includes oversized lanterns, festive wall art, kitchen accessories, and cozy textiles. Real Deals is perfect for sprucing up your space or finding hostess gifts that feel personal and stylish.

Uncle and Aunties

2865 Santa Clara Drive in Santa Clara, Utah.

A delightful blend of vintage charm and modern flair, Uncle and Aunties offers an eclectic mix of home décor, seasonal accents, and nostalgic treasures. Their holiday collection features retro ornaments, whimsical tableware, and cozy textiles that evoke the warmth of holidays past. Whether you're decorating with a touch of nostalgia or searching for a standout centerpiece, this shop delivers personality and festive cheer in every corner.

Cedar Depot Antiques and Craft Mall

200 N. Main Street in Cedar City, Utah. Cedar Depot Antiques and Craft Mall stands as a unique gem in Cedar City, Utah, showcasing a delightful collection

of artifacts that reflect the creativity and craftsmanship of local artists. This charming shop entices visitors with its eclectic assortment of antiques, vintage collectibles, and handmade crafts, creating an inviting atmosphere for those who appreciate the art of thrifting.

Juniper Outpost

312 W. Mesquite Blvd., Suite 114 in Mesquite, Nevada. Juniper Outpost is a desert-chic boutique offering curated gifts, apothecary items, pantry goods, and artwork. Their inventory includes handmade jewelry, gourmet sauces, candles, and wellness products. The shop’s aesthetic is minimalist and earthy, making every gift feel intentional.

Baja Imports

410 W. Mesquite Blvd. in Mesquite, Nevada. For a global twist on holiday decorating, Baja Imports brings handcrafted furniture, pottery, and textiles from Mexico and beyond. Their vibrant colors and rustic textures add warmth and character to any home. Holiday highlights include hand-painted ornaments, woven rugs, and artisan wood carvings.

Rooster cottage

748 W. Pioneer Blvd. in Mesquite, Nevada.

Rooster Cottage Consignment is a treasure trove of gently used furniture, home décor, and vintage finds. Customers praise its fair prices, friendly staff, and everchanging inventory. From wall art and clocks to headboards and trinkets, Rooster Cottage offers a cozy, welcoming atmosphere where shoppers can discover hidden gems and unique pieces for every style.

The Front Porch Flowers and Gifts

259 S. Moapa Valley Blvd. in Overton, Nevada. This charming shop offers floral arrangements alongside seasonal gifts, home décor, and holiday-themed treasures. Their inventory includes festive centerpieces, handcrafted ornaments, and cozy accessories. It’s a great stop for hostess gifts or last-minute surprises.

Danielle's chocolates and Popcorn

599 W. Mesquite Blvd. in Mesquite, Nevada.

Danielle's is a local favorite for gourmet popcorn in festive flavors like caramel apple, peppermint bark, and cheddar jalapeño. These are perfect for stocking stuffers, party favors, or snacking while you shop. Available in gift tins and custom packaging.

Bookstores & Board Games

The Book Bungalow

94 W. Tabernacle Street in St. George, Utah. This independent bookstore is a haven for readers and gift-givers alike. With a wide selection of fiction, nonfiction, children’s books, and local authors, it’s the perfect place to find meaningful gifts. Their holiday section includes beautifully bound classics, literary-themed mugs, and bookish stocking stuffers. They also host author events and book clubs, making it a community hub for literary lovers.

Festival Gift Shop

195 W. Center Street in Cedar City, Utah. (Utah Shakespeare Festival Campus)

Located on the grounds of the Utah Shakespeare Festival, this shop offers books, cards, and art inspired by the stage. It’s a great place to find unique literary gifts, including Shakespeare-themed merchandise, journals, and locally made souvenirs.

Comics Plus

352 W. St. George Boulevard in St. George, Utah. Customers enjoy its welcoming atmosphere, wellstocked selection of comics and graphic novels, and the knowledgeable, friendly owner. Whether you're hunting for rare issues or just exploring, Comics Plus offers expert service and a relaxed vibe that keeps fans coming back.

Game Haven

250 Red Cliffs Drive #32 in St. George, Utah.

Game Haven is a vibrant hub for tabletop gaming enthusiasts. The store offers a wide selection of board games, trading card games like Magic: The Gathering and Pokémon, RPGs, and war games. Game Haven hosts weekly events, game nights, and rentals, creating a strong community space for players of all ages.

Bootlegger Trading

312 W. Mesquite Blvd. #113 in Mesquite, Nevada.

A collector’s paradise! The shop specializes in rare and vintage memorabilia, including sports cards, vinyl records, comic books, and action figures. The store caters to both seasoned collectors and newcomers. Bootlegger Trading also fosters a vibrant community through events and collaborations with local artists, making it more than a store—it’s a hub for passion and nostalgia.

Boutique Fashion & Accessories

Cora Boutique

173 N. Main Street in St. George, Utah.

Cora Boutique is a fashion-forward destination offering women’s clothing, accessories, and seasonal collections. Their winter lineup includes chunky knits, velvet dresses, and statement earrings. The shop’s aesthetic is modern yet cozy, making it ideal for gifting stylish pieces or finding your own holiday outfit.

The Boutique at stephen's hair

312 W. Mesquite Blvd. #12 & 13, Mesquite, Nevada.

The Boutique at Stephen's Hair is a locally owned salon and fashion boutique offering a blend of personalized beauty services and stylish retail. The boutique showcases a curated selection of women's clothing, jewelry, and accessories. Known for its friendly atmosphere and attentive staff, it’s a go-to destination for both beauty and fashion in the Mesquite area.

Alt on Bling

355 W. Mesquite Blvd #C20 in Mesquite, Nevada.

Alt on Bling is Mesquite’s go-to boutique for bold fashion with a twist. Specializing in edgy apparel, statement accessories, and seasonal styles, the shop caters to those who love to stand out. Beyond clothing, Alt on Bling also offers home décor, quirky gifts, and dazzling ornaments that reflect the same vibrant personality as their fashion line.

Heavenly Gift Shoppe

114 N. Sandhill Blvd., Unit C in Mesquite, Nevada. Offerings include crystals, stones, jewelry, incense, and unique gifts. Known for its warm atmosphere and bimonthly crafting classes, it’s a hub for creativity and spiritual exploration. Visitors enjoy a welcoming space filled with positive energy and handcrafted treasures.

Twelve Days of Magic, Meaning, & Memories: a juniper holiday story

by Charlotte Sirianni

It begins with a flicker, the scent of pine, and the rustle of folded tissue. The holidays arrive softly at Juniper Outpost, but they linger with bold warmth.

Nestled in the heart of Mesquite, our boutique hums this time of year. Not with noise, but with intention. Here, lights twinkle differently, music drifts more slowly, and shelves— lined with creations from local makers—seem to lean in, eager to share their stories.

Every year, we invite you to experience our tradition of slow gifting and meaningful moments. It’s holiday shopping— “Juniper Style.”

On the First Day of Juniper…

Our version of The Twelve Days of Christmas doesn’t bring turtle doves or leaping lords. Instead, it’s small-batch soaps, hand-beaded earrings, local honey, and exotic wood charcuterie boards.

During each of the twelve days leading up to Christmas, we spotlight a local treasure—a product, a maker, a moment. One day, it’s handpoured candles, another day, ceramic mugs that warm both hands. Pantry delights and hidden surprises wait for those who love discovery.

Every gift is a story within a story—chosen to spark a memory and restore presence in a season that too often feels rushed.

Enter MJ, the Gift Box Whisperer

If you’ve visited before, you’ve likely met MJ Stiles, our stylist and gift-giving artist. After years in the beauty industry, she now pours that expertise into curating unforgettable gift baskets.

At her table, ribbon in one hand and artisan olive oil in the other, MJ creates bundles that translate feelings—comfort, celebration, and encouragement—into thoughtful collections.

Customers often say it’s not just the product but the presentation and intention that make it special.

And yes, MJ will build one for you. Or ten. She thrives on the challenge.

Not Just Shopping — A Haven

We see it every December: weary shoppers, endless lists, hurried steps. At Juniper Outpost, we offer more than help.

We offer ease, space, and kindness. Need a gift for a neighbor or the impossible-to-shop-for brother-in-law? We’ve got you. Want a hostess basket that feels personal? We’ll make it together.

This isn’t a place to rush. It’s where lighting warms, music soothes, and shopping feels like self-care. You’ll leave not just with a bag, but with less stress and more joy.

A Memory in the Making

Holiday memories rarely come from online orders. They come from unwrapping something handmade, receiving a gift that felt personal, or laughing over a mismatched surprise. They’re tokens—and tokens, chosen with care become treasures.

At Juniper Outpost, we live for those moments. Because when the ribbon is tied, the card signed, and the candle lit—you remember what the season is really about.

Come for the gifts. Stay for the stories. Leave with your heart a little fuller than when you arrived.V

Find us at 312 W. Mesquite Blvd., Suite 114, in The Mesquite Plaza. This season, we’re ready with hot cider, curated surprises, and thoughtful gifting support.

by Susi Lafaele County Fair Director and Events Manager

When the COVID-19 pandemic struck in early 2020, uncertainty swept across the United States. Small businesses—often affectionately called “mom and pop” shops—were among those hit hardest by the sudden changes. Lockdowns and restrictions became the norm, and with most of the country shuttered, the fear of permanent closures loomed large, especially in local communities. In Utah, the situation was no different. Statewide restrictions threatened the survival of beloved local businesses and jeopardized annual community events that brought people together and supported the local economy.

In this atmosphere of apprehension, the Washington County Commissioners made a bold decision: they kept the county open. While most of Utah followed the pattern of closures, Washington County allowed events at Legacy Park and the county fairgrounds to continue. This move was not without risk, but it proved to be a lifeline for local businesses and organizations that depended on these events for income and exposure.

This decision immediately benefited the Utah High School Rodeo Association. With Wasatch County closed, the association needed a new venue for its finals. Washington County stepped in and hosted the event, providing continuity for student athletes and their families during a time of upheaval. Similarly, the 2020 Washington County Fair was able to proceed, albeit with new safety regulations and provisions in place to protect the health of attendees. These events not only preserved a sense of normalcy but also injected much-needed revenue into the local economy at a critical time.

Recognizing the ongoing threat to small businesses, Washington County took its support a step further by creating the Holiday Market. Launched during Thanksgiving weekend, the Holiday Market was designed to coincide with Small Business Saturday—a national movement encouraging consumers to shop locally. But the Holiday Market went beyond simply promoting shopping; it provided a dedicated venue for artisans, crafters, and entrepreneurs to showcase their products at a time when many traditional retail spaces were closed or struggling. It also became a stage for local entertainers, bringing live music and performances to a community starved for connection and celebration.

Now in its sixth year, the Holiday Market has become a cornerstone holiday event in Washington County. Nearly 100 small businesses set up shop each year, filling two large buildings with a diverse array of goods and gifts. Over 20 local musicians and performing artists participate annually, transforming the market into both a commercial and cultural gathering. It is more than just a place to shop—it is a celebration of resilience, creativity, and community spirit that emerged from one of the most challenging periods in recent memory.

The success of the Holiday Market stands as a testament to the power of local action and the importance of supporting small businesses. By choosing to remain open and adapt to new challenges, Washington County not only safeguarded its economic vitality but also fostered a sense of togetherness that continues to benefit residents and visitors alike. As the Holiday Market continues to grow, it serves as a shining example of how communities can come together to support one another—no matter the circumstances.V

The Holiday Market is free to the public and is open Friday, November 28, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, November 29, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Washington County Legacy Park, located at 5500 W. 339 S. in Hurricane, Utah. For more information, call (435) 301-7761.

Holiday Happenings

a

guide to seasonal activities in your area

by Ruth Dickie and Paul Benedict

Walk through this awe-inspiring Field of Honor with its 1,000 flags standing proudly and flying freely in the breeze. Remember a silent story of a fallen veteran, honor a veteran whom you know, or salute the soldiers who are serving our country today. Visit this field and bring your camera, your children, your family, neighbors, and friends as you pay your respects to the brave Americans who have served and are serving our great nation today, here and abroad.

This marks the 19th year that this iconic Field of Honor is presented by the Mesquite Exchange Club Foundation, a major supporter of veterans’ programs and services throughout the Virgin Valley. This is the first year that the Virgin Valley Chapter of The Daughters of the American Revolution will be partnering with the Exchange Club to offer this yearly, most reverent, and patriotic event.

The field is located on the west side of the Mesquite Recreation Center on West Old Mill Road, right off the I-15 freeway. The public can visit the field of 1,000 flags any time, 24 hours a day, rain or shine, from November 9 to November 16. The field is lit at night, and volunteers from the community maintain a watchful vigil every minute during the week. The flags are never left unattended.

On Veterans Day, Tuesday, November 11, at 6 p.m., your presence is requested at a dignified ceremony at the field. Join your voice with those of your neighbors as we say, “Thank you, and welcome home,” to those who have served. The program’s emcee is Paul Benedict, president of the Exchange Club, and it is dedicated to Gold Star Families. Lorna Briggson, a Gold Star Mother, will be the main speaker. Bleacher seating will be available, or you can bring your own lawn chair.

One Thousand Flags Over Mesquite will conclude with a closing ceremony on Sunday, November 16, at 2 p.m. The Mesquite Fire Department Rescue will conduct a moving flag retirement ceremony.

While the event is free, we invite you to dedicate a flag for $35 in honor of or in memory of a veteran in your life. You will be given a card to fill out. You will tie the card and the supplied ribbon to the flag you have purchased. At the end of the closing ceremony, you may take your flag and tag with you or leave the flag, and it will be donated back to the project.

All flags and materials utilized in the display are 100% American-made.V

Each year, many businesses, private individuals, casinos, and non-profit organizations help make this event possible through their donations. All proceeds go to the 501(c)(3) charitable organizations of the Exchange Club of Mesquite Foundation and the Virgin Valley Chapter of the DAR for the benefit of local veterans, charities, and projects. It is clearly a community event. Contact the personnel below if you would like to contribute.

Paul Benedict: phbenedict@gmail.com Exchange Club: exchange.mesquite@gmail.com Dr. Leigh Roessner, Virgin Valley DAR: vvalleydar@gmail.com

As they do faithfully each year, the City Shoppes Embroidery will be selling many commemorative items, such as T-shirts, sweatshirts, caps, pens, and cups. They graciously donate a portion of their proceeds to the Exchange Club of Mesquite Foundation.

‘Tis

the Season

to Celebrate the Holidays in St. George!

by Natalie Allred

While our desert Christmas season may not be white and snowy, St. George’s stunning red rock landscapes and mild winter temperatures create a stellar backdrop for holiday celebrations. From dazzling light displays to magical rides on the North Pole Express, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Here is the lineup for this year’s holiday events:

KICKOFF TO CHRISTMAS

Come on down to the Historic Town Square to spark your Christmas spirit! Brought to you by the City of St. George and 94.9 Cat Country, Kickoff to Christmas will be held on December 1 from 6 to 8 p.m. As the twinkling lights come to life, Town Square will set the stage for an evening full of fun on the first Monday following Thanksgiving.

Families can enjoy holiday crafts and activities at The St. George Children’s Museum, as well as hot chocolate and cookies provided by Hedgehog Electric. Live entertainment from local performers will fill the air with holiday cheer. Santa

Claus will also be making a special appearance, ready to listen to the wishes of each boy and girl.

This event is a beloved tradition here in St. George and one you won’t want to miss!

TOWN SQUARE HOLIDAY LIGHTS

Even if you are unable to attend Kickoff to Christmas, Town Square is still the place to be throughout the holiday season! The lights unveiled that evening will continue to shine through to the new year, keeping the festive spirit alive the entire month.

Beginning in October, parks division employees carefully hang nearly 400,000 lights to create this spectacular sight. Their hard work creates a winter wonderland for the entire community to admire.

Take a stroll through the square, soak in the dazzling display, and capture the perfect Christmas-card photo in front of the iconic tree.

HOLIDAY LIGHTS AT RED HILLS DESERT GARDEN: A DESERT WONDERLAND

Celebrate the season with a dazzling tradition atop the red hill—Holiday Lights at Red Hills Desert Garden. Each evening, the region’s renowned botanical garden transforms into a sparkling landscape illuminated with thousands of colorful lights and festive displays that shine all season long.

Visitors wander winding paths aglow with seasonal cheer, discovering highlights like a whimsical Candyland scene, featuring giant cupcakes and candy canes, glowing stars suspended above the slot canyon, and luminaries lighting the way throughout the garden.

The lights shine nightly from 5 to 10 p.m., offering families, couples, and friends plenty of time to enjoy the magic at their own pace. Whether you’re capturing the perfect holiday photo, making new memories, or simply soaking in the festive glow, Holiday Lights at Red Hills Desert Garden is the must-see celebration of the season.

Red Hills Desert Garden is Utah’s premier desert landscape garden, featuring more than 5,000 waterefficient plants. The garden is maintained by the Washington County Water Conservancy District as a demonstration garden.

Visit redhillsdesertgarden.com for more information.

THUNDER JUNCTION NORTH POLE EXPRESS

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

But no visit is complete without taking a ride on the famous North Pole Express. The train winds through the park, offering a whole new perspective of the festive displays.

This is a ticketed event, and sales start November 17 at sgcityutah.gov.

LIGHT THE NIGHT EVENT AND EXHIBITION OPENING

Celebrate the season at the St. George Museum of Art! On December 6, the museum will open its Winter Exhibitions with a special holiday event starting at 6 p.m. Be among the first to explore the new displays and enjoy a host of holiday activities, including live music, hot chocolate, donuts, and a hands-on opportunity to create your own luminary to light up the courtyard.

Guests will also have the opportunity to meet the artists and join in celebrating the opening of the new exhibits. It promises to be a night full of creativity and holiday fun, all centered around the new Winter Exhibitions.V

CONCERTS AT THE ELECTRIC: TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA TRIBUTE

This year, the City of St. George is excited to start its new Electric Concert Series! On December 8, the series celebrates the Christmas season with a TransSiberian Orchestra tribute starting at 7 p.m.

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

Christmas in the Canyon Spreads Christmas Cheer For All to Hear

by Lisa Larson

For many people, the most important elements of the Christmas season can be summed up in a few words: faith, family, and time-honored traditions. This year, thanks to Tuacahn’s popular Christmas in the Canyon event, families can indulge in all their favorite traditions in one place. From shopping and Santa visits to moving theatrical performances, each event takes place in the shadow of southern Utah’s red rock mountains while surrounded by thousands of twinkling lights.

“If you’re looking for an opportunity to have the true feeling of Christmas, there is no better place than Tuacahn this season,” says Tuacahn CEO, Kevin Smith. “We’ve always considered this event our Christmas gift to the community, and people love coming back year after year to enjoy it.”

Serving as the crown jewel in this festive setting, Tuacahn’s Live Nativity takes place each evening in the outdoor

amphitheatre. The cozy Live Nativity takes the concept of a homespun retelling of the biblical story of Jesus' birth and magnifies it for the large outdoor stage. Complete with live animals, beautiful music, a volunteer cast that changes each night, and professional narration, few things can match the spirit of the season as the angels herald the birth of a king.

“People love the way this important story comes together in our unique setting,” Smith adds.

Inside the Hafen Indoor Theatre, the Christmas spirit is equally alive as Elf the Musical unfolds in a story of childlike innocence, family, and belief.

“This is such a magical show full of comedy and fun,” says Director Shari Jordan. “There are so many people who love to see the movie each year, but I really think the musical is even better than the film. It is just as funny and is filled with so much more heart.”

Christmas, and all the magic and belief that goes along with it, is paramount to Jordan in her own life. Her enthusiasm for the holiday makes it easy for her to share the magic found in the story of Buddy the Elf, who is determined to find his father even if it means leaving his North Pole home and braving the streets of New York.

“We just want to be part of the holiday magic for families, and Elf is a great multigenerational story that will leave everyone laughing and happy,” Jordan says.

Beyond the indoor and outdoor theater spaces, patrons can experience all the sights, sounds, and smells of the season, including shopping in the Tuacahn Gift Gallery, taking a ride

on the Holiday Train, visiting with Santa Claus, or savoring cinnamon nuts, hot chocolate, and other concessions.

“I just love Christmas with all my heart,” Jordan explains. “Being able to attend an event that really has all the beautiful things about this holiday front and center—it’s just the best way to enjoy the season.”V

Christmas in the Canyon takes place November 28 through December 23, with the Live Nativity starting at 7 p.m. and 8:15 p.m. Elf the Musical takes place November 21 through December 20, with the show starting at 7:45 p.m. For more information, go online to www.tuacahn.org or call the box office at (435) 652-3300.

Twinkling Lights and Cozy Nights: Holidays in Southern Utah

by Kaylee Pickering

Quiet streets. Shimmering lights. Holiday displays and festive events at every turn. In Cedar City and beyond, the season feels cozy and bright. Tucked between picturesque landscapes, these events welcome visitors back to enjoy a warm, hometown holiday spirit.

Ready to feel like you stepped into a cozy holiday movie?

Where the Magic Begins in Downtown Cedar City

Dusted in snow, lined with bright trees, and draped with bright holiday lights, the views of Cedar City Main Street are only the beginning of the magic in Historic Downtown. With shop windows dressed in their Christmas best and crowds wandering through the closed street, the holiday anticipation is palpable as everyone gathers for a favorite local event. The Downtown Lighting Ceremony starts with holiday shopping and activities for the entire family, like crafts, bouncy houses,

and a live Nativity. With Main Street shut down to traffic, families gather for a holiday program and the arrival of Santa Claus himself in a fancy new ride! With a little holiday magic thanks to our special guest, everyone counts down together to ring in the magic of the season.

After the program, enjoy a walk on Main Street beneath beautiful twinkling lights before wandering between the beautifully decorated trees at the Holiday Tree Jubilee.

Winter Wonderland in Parowan

There’s something about the holidays in Parowan that feels like you’ve stepped into a Hallmark movie. The glittering lights, the historic brick buildings, and its quaint Main Street invite you to slow down and savor the season.

The holiday celebrations in Parowan start with two days of shopping for homecrafted gifts at the annual Christmas in the Country event and Holiday Bazaar. The Candlelight Walking Parade and the Town Lighting Ceremony follow this event. Bring your candle or light and walk with the community down Main

Street singing familiar carols and reveling in the holiday spirit as you make your way to the Main Street Park.

Until the new year, the park stays dressed in its holiday finest with light displays and weekend events.

With holiday displays and friendly farm animals, Christmas on the Farm gives the feeling of an old-fashioned Christmas centered around the beauty of farm life. Sing carols on a hayride, make Christmas crafts, choose a fresh tree, and find hand-crafted holiday gifts in the farm store. It’s a beautiful evening destination as you wander through Candy Cane Lane with a cup of hot chocolate and visit with Santa and the Grinch.

Red Acre Christmas in Cedar City

The scent of fresh pine and simmering cider fills the air; Red Acre Christmas is a beautiful, slow-paced holiday event that tours a real working farm and offers Christmas fun. Celebrate the holidays with fun activities like candle making and Christmas tree shopping. The farm stand is bustling with eager shoppers gathering baked goods, hand-carved wooden spoons, and freshly cut holiday wreaths and garlands from Cedar Mountain.

A Scenic Drive Down Christmas Lane

With hot chocolate in hand, driving around to look at lights is a time-honored holiday tradition that Cedar City embraces wholeheartedly. Every year, Christmas Lane opens to the public. With its cheerful holiday decor, this neighborhood behind the Cedar Ridge Golf Course has been a celebrated part of the holiday season in Cedar City for years.

With streets carefully marked and instructions to match, visitors can drive through the neighborhood and rediscover the classic story, “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas,” as they go. Each house glows with holiday spirit while story signs guide you through a larger-than-life retelling. Cue the gentle holiday music, designate a family narrator, and enjoy a quiet evening of simple joy.

Where to Wander for Holiday Lights

With light displays from Cedar City to Brian Head, it’s easy to spend an entire evening driving around looking at holiday lights. With treats and a holiday playlist, it’s a pretty great ride! Grab a copy of the holiday map at visitcedarcity.com, and check out some of our favorite light locations.

The Beverley Center for the Arts

The sculpture gardens and grounds of the Utah Shakespeare Festival and Southern Utah Museum of Art are also home to beautiful holiday displays. Music plays throughout the gardens, and the lights shimmer in shades of silver, gold, and bright holiday colors.

Brian Head Ice & Brian Head Town

Tucked among beautiful pines at 10,000 feet, the bright holiday lights at Brian Head Ice add to the ambiance as you glide across the ice beneath brilliantly dark skies. In town, you’ll find pines wrapped with lights, along with the classic holiday ski vibe in Brian Head.

With its lights, music, and magic, southern Utah is a place where the holiday season feels like you are wrapped in a warm embrace.V

Find upcoming events and winter getaway inspiration at www.visitcedarcity.com or @visitceddarcity.

Mesquite’s 2025 Parade of Lights Celebrates “Christmas in the Desert”

by Deborah Benham

The 11th annual Parade of Lights in Mesquite will be held on Thursday, December 4, starting at 5:30 p.m. The entry fee to be in the parade is a minimum of 25 pounds of non-perishable food.

The theme for this year's parade is "Christmas in the Desert." A trophy will be awarded to the participant with the best display of lights. Another trophy will go to the participant who collects the most food (determined by weight). The winners will be announced in January. The parade begins at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Arrowhead Lane and proceeds down Mesquite Boulevard. The parade ends at City Hall.

As of the end of 2024, the total food and non-perishable items collected since 2015 came to 108,796 pounds. Last year alone, we collected 21,788 pounds. We are hoping to have another successful year. We could not accomplish this without the support of the residents and local businesses. All items collected are given to the Salvation Army to be distributed to those in need right here in Mesquite.

Once again, the Eureka Casino Resort has graciously agreed to provide hot chocolate and cookies to the public. Shopping carts will be available along the parade route. Spectators are also asked to bring donations to the parade for this community food drive. There will be a box in front of City Hall for donations as well.

Immediately after the parade, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for pictures in front of the Christmas tree. Please bring your own camera.V

We are a 501(c)(3) domestic nonprofit corporation. All donations are tax-deductible. Donations can be sent to: Parade of Lights Corporation 635 Oregon Trail, Mesquite, Nevada 89027

Donation drop boxes are available at City Hall, the recreation center, WAFD Bank, Nevada Bank and Trust, Sun City in the Pioneer Center, and Mesa Valley Estates. If you want to donate but do not have the time to shop, we can shop for you.

We can also come to you and pick up items. I can be reached at (702) 324-2038 and Deborah_Benham@yahoo.com.

Tennis TNT tips-n-tricks

by Donna Eads

After being amazed at the U.S. Open in September with impossible shots, we now look forward to the new year and the Australian Open. As the first grand slam of the year, more five-set matches are sure to happen. The summertime in Melbourne, Australia, can be one of the harshest for the players due to the heat and strong sun.

Many club players wonder how the pros get to that shot in time to make a winning return. The first clue is their anticipation and early preparation for the shot. How can we even come close? First, always angle yourself toward the flight of the ball, and then approach your shot with the racquet out front and ready to hit that winner. Reading your opponent is a little like a cat-and-mouse game. Note how many times they hit the same shot and maybe where they are leaving the court open as well. Then the mouse can outplay the cat and win.

As the holidays approach, gifts are on every tennis player's mind. New shoes are so important for any active player. If you play often, be sure you have at least two pairs to rotate. This rotation allows the sole and inside portion of the shoe to rebound to normal. The best overall shoe is the ASICS Court FF 3, and this company also makes the best stability shoe called the Gel Resolution X. The best price is the K-Swiss Hypercourt Express 2.

For new racquets, look to the Head Ti S6 for the longest reach. Head has the best oversized racquet at 115 square inches. The best accuracy is the Prince 2020 Thunder Bandit. Easiest on the arm is the Wilson Clash 100 V3.

If you are looking for jewelry or other tennis-themed items, go online to tennisexpress.com. They have a wide assortment of towels, necklaces, bags, and more to offer as gifts.

Additionally, they have tennis instruction items such as books or videos.

An important tip for any player is to remember that it is your follow-through that holds the ball in the court. At the baseline, the follow-through is completely over your shoulder. Do not be afraid. The ball receives additional rotation that makes it stay in the court. As you move closer to the net, the stroke becomes more and more compact. By the time you are at the net, your volley has almost no backswing and little follow-through. The racquet stays where you can see it during the volley. So the trick is to think smaller!

The Mesquite Senior Games will include tennis in 2026, so pick a partner soon since it is all doubles. The format will be tournament style with either a round robin or a bracket, depending on the number of teams. I will be your director with other helpers, too.

See you on the courts!V

Unwrapping Golf Tips for a more joyful Holiday Season on the course

by Rob Krieger, PGA

Last year, I received amazing feedback on the golf tips for Christmas, so here are a few more for you to unwrap for a better golf game this season.

Short Putts Inside Five Feet

The tour average for a four-foot putt is 88%. To improve your short putts—reduce the amount of break you are playing play these shots more straight with less break. Aim to have the ball hit the back of the cup. Also, control the putter with one hand, and let the other hand just stabilize it with no grip pressure or influence on the club. Practice putting with one hand and decide which one works best for you to keep your putter head square and putter path straight. Having a different grip for short putts is not uncommon (e.g., Scottie Scheffler).

For Mid-Range Putts (five to 15 feet)

The average for an eight-foot putt is 44%, and it keeps getting worse as you get further away from the hole. Therefore, these putts need to be struck with speed so the ball ends up 18 inches past the hole if the shot is not made. Most people baby these putts and either decelerate the putter through the stroke or worry about hitting it too far and do not make a stroke with enough speed to get the ball to the hole.

Long Putts Outside 15 Feet

The tour average is only 23% for the best in the world at 15 feet, so you are better served to focus on your distance control, not trying to make the shot. Get it close, within

four feet, and don’t get too upset if you don’t make it. You weren’t going to make it anyway. Sorry to be harsh, but your problem isn’t making putts outside 15 feet. Your problem is hitting your shot on the green—it needs to be closer to the hole.

Chipping

Chipping is when a ball is in the air for a short period of time and runs more. It is like a putt using a lofted club. Try holding the club handle more upright so the heel of the club is off the ground, and get your hands in front of the ball at address. Maintain hands in front through impact. Also, brush the grass as you come through impact, level with the ground. Go through the ball and brush grass in front of the ball as you strike it first. Then continue to brush grass in front of the ball. Stop trying to hit down on it. Go through it instead, and use a less lofted club like PW, 9, 8, or 7 iron, not SW or LW, and eliminate using wrists.

Pitching

Pitching is where the ball is in the air longer with less run—a longer shot than a chip. A divot may be taken in front of the ball, but it is not always necessary. Here, you can use your LW, SW, GW, or PW. Hinging the wrists can happen because of a longer swing. There are so many ways to hit these shots successfully, and confusion leads to poor shots. However, these shots require attention to your trail shoulder. For right-handed players, it is your right—it has to get past where the ball went through impact for better contact and success.

Flop or Lob Shots

These get the ball up quickly and stop with very little roll. Try starting with your hands behind the ball. Take a bigger, lazier, and slower swing while maintaining your speed through the shot and not slowing down through impact. Many players are afraid of the big swing and slow down as they approach the ball. Swing slowly with confidence using a 64, 60, 58, or 56 degree club, and maintain club head speed through impact. Practice this (a lot) before taking it onto the course. This is a hard, difficult shot with a high risk of failure until mastered.

Tee Shots

Use the line on the ball to line up the line where your aiming point is from off the tee. Some tee boxes set you up for trouble, so use the line to get yourself lined up.

The gift of a golf lesson by an experienced PGA golf professional is a unique and thoughtful. You are not telling someone their game is bad because we can always work on something in our golf games and improve. Having someone guide them through the process may be something they would not buy for themselves. The tips above can make a difference, if used in the proper context, but the finer details and further explanations can help improvement go faster.

Enjoy the holidays, and go practice and play.

Good luck and as always…Fairways and Greens!V

EasyforMeals Easier Holidays

byAshleyCenters

The time of the year leading up to the holidays is always my favorite! I love the memories made with friends and loved ones, the changes in the weather, the ability to be outside more often, and the meals shared; it really is a time to be thankful for.

As I get older and have more and more responsibilities, I become more pressed for time. Even though I do enjoy cooking, the one thing I’ve found is that leading up to the big cooking holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, I tend to make simpler meals so I’m not as burned out. And I’m sure if you’re hosting large groups, you might feel the same way.

For this edition, I thought I would share a few of our family's favorite easy meals and a couple of leftover recipes for that holiday ham or turkey you’ll inevitably have to eat following the holiday meal!

Over the last few years, the Crock-Pot has become one of our most utilized kitchen appliances, and the lead-up to the holidays is no exception. One of our family's most favorite easy recipes (that also makes for a great takealong) is a meal of smoked sausage, green beans, golden potatoes, corn on the cob, and carrots. You can use canned or fresh green beans and crinkle cut or baby carrots according to your preference, but it usually goes something like this for us…

Crockpot Sausage Boil

Ingredients:

• 2 12 oz. packages of smoked sausage

• 3-4 golden potatoes, quartered

• 4 ears of corn on the cob

• 4 cups (or cans) green beans

Place all ingredients in the Crock-Pot and fill to the top with water. Cook on the low setting overnight or until potatoes are fork-tender. We typically serve with cornbread or fresh rolls and a side salad.

And while the smoked sausage lends plenty of flavor and protein, you can also add some cooked shrimp to the recipe. Use Cajun seasoning or Old Bay for a meal more like a traditional seafood boil.

This recipe is easy, filling, and has some great veggies and lots of flavor. It can be made in large batches to feed bigger groups and requires hardly any prep. For those reasons, it has become one of our absolute year-round favorites over the years.

This second recipe for some awesome turkey noodle soup is one I created after last Thanksgiving. It is a wonderful way to use up some leftovers and get a nice, light, comforting meal.

Turkey Noodle Soup

Ingredients:

• 3 cups shredded turkey leftovers

• 6 cups of turkey stock (homemade is best, but store bought is fine also; if you don't want to make turkey stock, you can use lowsodium chicken broth)

• 1/2 cup diced onion

• 1 clove minced garlic

• 3-4 medium diced carrots

• 2-3 stalks diced celery

• 1 12 oz. bag of wide egg noodles (or homemade noodles if you prefer, but wide and flat noodles work the best)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon butter

1. In a large stock pot, sautée carrots, celery, and garlic together in olive oil until slightly golden and tender.

2. In a separate pan, place noodles in water with 1 tablespoon of butter, and cook until noodles are slightly al dente.

3. Drain, cover with a lid, and place to the side for later.

4. When sautéed veggies and garlic are ready, begin adding the turkey stock.

5. Bring to a simmer, and then add the turkey.

6. Let it warm through, then remove the pan from the heat, and stir in the cooked noodles.

We like to serve this one with leftover dressing balls on the side. It is a fairly simple but great-tasting dish to eat up those leftovers!

Third is another Crock-Pot meal our family calls Swiss steak, but I’m unsure if that’s correct, as it is a tomatobased sauce and not a mushroom gravy like other Swiss steaks I have eaten before.

Crock Pot Swiss Steak

Ingredients:

• 1 chuck roast, approximately 2-4 lbs.

• 3 cans stewed tomatoes

• 4 large green peppers, sliced

• 1 bottle of tomato juice

• 4 chopped garlic cloves

• Salt and pepper to taste

It’s as easy as placing your roast, tomatoes, peppers, and enough tomato juice to fill your Crock-Pot. Put it on high, and cook until the meat is done to your preference. Then place on low and let simmer until ready to serve.

This goes great with mashed potatoes, and you can use the tomato juice as a pseudo-gravy to go over them. It also goes great with a baked potato.

I love the holidays, and I love cooking for and with others, but I also know some days it can feel like a lot of work. I hope these recipes help you like they have helped me—not only during the holidays but all year round—to remember that the joy of a shared meal isn’t always so much about how big or complex the meal is but the company you share it with. Making food that tastes good but doesn’t stress you out can sometimes make all the difference in how much you enjoy it. Because at the end of the day, the meal may be forgotten, but the time you spent together over that meal can last forever. So remember to be kind to your body, be kind to yourself, and be thankful for the blessings of your health and your time with loved ones.V

Remembering Wally Humphreys

Who Fought in Bombers and Helicopters

by David Cordero

I’ve had the good fortune of interviewing hundreds of military veterans over the years. Not many of them saw combat in both World War II and Vietnam, but I was blessed to know one man who did.

Wally Humphreys, who died in September of 2025 at age 101, was a St. George resident for most of his retired years. He went from flying B-25 propellerpowered bombers in World War II to flying rescue helicopters in Vietnam.

He had many close calls, including flying over the Pacific Ocean on fumes and having to make a belly landing when his landing gear wouldn’t go down. A few years ago, he related one experience from his Vietnam years.

It was after work one evening in the mid-1960s, and Wally sat at home in his baggy Air Force “sun tans,” trying to decompress. His phone rang. On the line was his commander, with news Wally didn’t want to hear: he was being reassigned to helicopter training.

“I grabbed my wings and told him, ‘Stick ’em!’” Wally told me. “‘I’m not going into any helicopter.’”

Perhaps anticipating Wally’s reaction, his commander tried persuasion. Wally may not have been impressed with helicopters up until that point, but the chopper he would fly hadn’t even been built yet.

“He said, ‘It’s going to be the biggest one in the Air Force inventory,’” Wally remembered. “I decided this might be pretty good.”

That “biggest one” was the Sikorsky HH-53B, known as the Super Jolly Green Giant—a hulking, 40,000-pound machine with eight rotor blades, heavy armor, three machine guns, a rescue hoist, and room for as many as 40 troops. Its purpose: to extract downed airmen from danger.

Training took a full year and included a brutal survival school in Washington state. “It was 16 days, and I lost one pound a day,” Wally said. “It took one year to get me ready to go overseas.”

By 1967, the U.S. Air Force was in the thick of the Vietnam War. Wally arrived in Thailand that August, part of the newly

formed 40th Aerospace Rescue and Recovery Squadron. The “Jollies” flew in pairs: a low bird to snatch the survivors, a high bird to circle above and protect. It was dangerous, often chaotic work.

During a rescue, pilots of the Super Jolly would home in on beeper signals located in the survival vests of downed airmen. Wally would hover 50 to 200 feet above ground, depending on the tree line, while the penetrator was lowered to make the rescue attempt.

Then came 1968—a turning point in the war. The Tet Offensive rocked American confidence, while secret radar stations like Lima Site 85 in Laos became lifelines for U.S. bombing runs. Perched on a remote 5,600-foot mountain, Lima 85 was critical to Rolling Thunder operations—and was a top target for the North Vietnamese.

In March 1968, the station came under heavy attack. At first light, Wally and his fellow pilots arrived in their Super Jollies, covered by A-1 Skyraiders, to pull out the men trapped on the mountain.

“The first time in, I hovered and put the penetrator down,” he said. “Three guys got on there. With the added weight, we started to settle toward the rocks. All I could do was lower the nose and hope for speed.”

The move worked—barely. The survivors clung for dear life, swinging beneath the helicopter as it clawed for altitude.

Wally and his crew made four extractions that day, helping to rescue 18 men. However, Lima 85 fell. Twelve Americans were killed or went missing, including Chief Master Sergeant Richard Etchberger, who was later awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism.

Wally retired in 1970 as a lieutenant colonel, decorated with the Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, four Air Medals, and dozens more commendations. When we spoke, it had been more than 50 years since his most recent combat. But those memories never strayed far from the surface.

“I think back sometimes and wonder how in the hell I did it,” he said. “But I did. I always had the attitude… if he can do it, I can do it. You just had to show me one time. That was all.”V

The Official People’s Tour

by Kimberly Fletcher

As America approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026, communities nationwide are preparing to mark this historic milestone. Leading the way is the US 250 Tour— The Official People’s Tour—a once-in-a-generation journey designed to unite citizens in celebration of freedom, heritage, and the values that bind us together.

This is not just another event series. The People’s Tour is a living tribute to the resilience and creativity of everyday Americans. And just weeks after the holiday season, Mesquite will help launch the new year in grand fashion as it hosts the tour from January 9–11, 2026. Even better, this is a free event for all members of the community, surrounding areas, and visitors

from across the nation who want to experience Mesquite, learn its history, and connect with its people.

A Tour for Everyone

The US 250 Tour will travel across all 50 states in 50 weeks, culminating in a nationwide commemoration in 2026. What makes this tour special is its focus on the people—it highlights the unique cultures, traditions, and stories that make America extraordinary.

From live music and hands-on exhibits to patriotic displays and interactive family fun, every stop on the People’s Tour is designed to welcome all generations. Communities like

Mesquite are not just hosting; they are becoming part of the story, ensuring this 250th anniversary belongs to everyone.

Education at the Heart

At the center of the People’s Tour is education—sharing the story of how America was built and the sacrifices that secured our freedoms. Each tour stop includes opportunities for young people to learn in engaging and interactive ways. Families can explore exhibits that bring history to life while being reminded that freedom did not come free.

This educational focus is especially fitting for the holiday season, a time when families reflect, share traditions, and pass values to the next generation. The People’s Tour blends history with hope, making it both timely and timeless.

Patriot Village and Inspiring Attractions

One of the tour’s most powerful features is Patriot Village, a traveling hub filled with inspiration and community spirit. Visitors can experience America’s Wall of Honor, traveling museums, children’s zones, and displays honoring military heroes and first responders.

These attractions, alongside interactive exhibits and concerts, make the People’s Tour an event where history, culture, and entertainment meet. Whether you’re a child discovering America’s founding stories or an adult reflecting on the journey of the past 250 years, there is something for everyone.

Mesquite’s Special Role

Mesquite’s role as a host city reflects its spirit of hospitality and unity. With strong local support from community leaders and residents, Mesquite has embraced its place in this national story.

As the community welcomes the US 250 Tour—The Official People’s Tour—in January, it marks one of the very first stops of the new year. The free three-day celebration will provide a unique opportunity for people from Mesquite, the surrounding region, and even other states to come together. Visitors will not only enjoy the tour’s attractions but also discover the heart of Mesquite—its history, its culture, and its people.

A Legacy for Generations

The US 250 Tour isn’t just about looking back—it’s about moving forward as one nation. By honoring our shared past, celebrating the present, and inspiring the future, the People’s Tour reminds us that America’s story is still being written.

As President John F. Kennedy once said, “Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.” The People’s Tour invites every American to answer that call by joining together to celebrate 250 years of the greatest nation ever built.V

Stay Connected

For more information, visit www.us250tour.com, email info@us250tour.com, or please contact Zach Fletcher, chief marketing officer of Moms for America/ Safe Evac.

Anne Martin Plaque Unveiled in Mesquite

by Jean Watkins and Terri Fitzgerald

The Anne Martin plaque was unveiled at Mesquite’s Women’s History and Culture Center (WHCC) on August 27, 2025, to honor the suffragist, Anne Martin, who spearheaded the campaign to get Nevada women the right to vote six years before the 19th Amendment was passed.

The Mesquite Showgirls greeted attendees as they arrived, and the ceremony began with the flag presentation by the Mesquite Veterans Honor Guard.

Jesse Whipple, Mayor of Mesquite, gave a moving welcome speech about the contributions to the Martin family by his mother and grandmother, who were instrumental role models in his life. He then introduced Jean Watkins, WHCC president, who recognized the many community members involved in this two-year-long project.

Jean thanked the Mesquite Public Arts Commission and the Mesquite City Council for approving the plaque design; the Eureka Community Initiative and Mesquite Opportunity Regional Fund for funding; the Mesquite Parks Department for bringing the rock to the plaza and setting it in place; the Mesquite Leisure Services Department for selection and coordination with the plaque provider; and the Mesquite Facilities Maintenance Department for grinding the rock and affixing the plaque to it.

Reenie McFarland, WHCC vice president, spoke about the WHCC mission to highlight the contributions of women past and present and to advocate for opportunities and equality for women and girls through children’s reading programs, student presentations, and creative community projects.

Dr. Deanna Beachley, an award-winning instructor of history and women’s studies at the College of Southern Nevada, spoke next. Beachley is a scholar of social history, the American women’s suffrage movement, and the American women’s movement and is currently working on a biography of Anne Martin.

Attendees were captivated by the interesting facts Dr. Beachley shared about Anne and the obstacles she overcame on behalf of Nevada women. After that, Mayor Whipple and Randy Laub, Director of Leisure Services, unveiled the plaque.

The plaque is strategically located in front of the Women’s History and Culture Center in Mesquite to illuminate a significant moment in American history. It is a reminder of Martin’s pivotal role in the long fight for women’s voting rights and a call for continued efforts to secure equality and justice for all.V

by Randi Fuller

Whether you celebrate with lights, feasts, rituals, or simply mark the turning of the year, the holiday season is a time of gathering, reflection, and beauty. It’s also one of the most resource-intensive times of the year—a contrast many of us feel deeply.

I remember my own childhood gatherings, not only for the giving of gifts but also for the giant garbage bags we used to collect the mountains of wrapping paper, bows, and boxes. The cleanup often took weeks, leaving me with a lasting impression of both the joy of celebration and its hidden environmental cost.

This experience is reflected in data. Across the U.S., seasonal traditions take a significant toll. Households produce about 25% more waste during the holidays, adding roughly 5 million extra tons to landfills (EPA, 2022). Wrapping paper alone accounts for over 4.6 million pounds, much of it coated in foil or glitter and unrecyclable (NRDC, 2022), while plastic décor, like tinsel and artificial greenery, breaks down into persistent microplastics.

Decorative lights consume around 6.6 billion kilowatt-hours annually—enough electricity to power 14 million refrigerators (U.S. Department of Energy, 2023). Beyond this, the manufacturing and transportation of gifts and décor spike carbon emissions, especially with overnight shipping, which can produce up to 10 times more emissions than standard delivery (EPA, 2022). Food waste also surges by approximately 40%, much of it decomposing into methane in landfills (NRDC, 2022).

In short, short-lived décor, specialty papers, and single-use plastics drive additional energy and water consumption, further burdening the planet. While these numbers may feel overwhelming, they also reveal an opportunity. Our choices matter. By shifting how we celebrate and decorate, we can preserve the joy of the season while caring for the planet— and, in turn, create homes that nurture our emotional well-being.

6 Ways to Decorate More Sustainably

1. Rethink Holiday Waste

Instead of buying new, host an upcycle décor party where friends and family create ornaments or garlands from materials on hand—old magazines, jars, or fabric scraps. Use natural, compostable décor like pinecones, dried citrus, cinnamon sticks, or unshelled nuts. In the Mojave, consider adding desert accents, like polished stones, dried sage, or local acacia branches, for a unique, place-based touch. Invest in “holiday neutral” bases—tablecloths, candles, or dishware in wintery colors—that work across many traditions. For large items, like artificial trees or menorahs, consider rentals instead of buying.

2. Wrap Without Waste

Try furoshiki, the Japanese cloth-wrapping tradition, using scarves or tea towels that become part of the gift. Repurpose maps, newspapers, or kraft paper, dressing them up with sprigs of rosemary, dried citrus, or small desert flowers tied with natural twine. Reusable containers, like jars, baskets, or tins, eliminate waste entirely. If you buy paper, choose plain, recycled sheets and avoid glossy finishes (NRDC, 2022).

3. Smarter Holiday Lighting

Swap incandescent bulbs for LED strings, which use up to 90% less energy (DOE, 2023). Add a timer so displays shine only during evening hours. For ambiance, use mirrors, metallic ornaments, and candlelight (beeswax or soy are biodegradable). Traditions centered on candles—from menorahs to Advent wreaths—model this beautifully, and for the winter solstice, maximize natural daylight to highlight seasonal decor. Consider reflecting light off local desert glass, polished stones, or mirrors to amplify the glow without extra energy use.

4. Natural Over Plastic

Follow the “second-hand first” rule—thrift stores and community swaps often have durable glass or wooden décor. Make biodegradable ornaments like popcorn garlands, salt dough shapes, or dried orange slices. For greenery, consider a potted living tree, a large desert branch, or a sage bundle that can be planted or reused for years. Replace plastic tinsel with paper chains, knitted bunting, or felt garlands. Desert-inspired colors—sand, terracotta, and muted greens—add a subtle, local aesthetic.

5. Reduce Shipping Emissions

Give experiences instead of physical gifts: tickets, local restaurant gift cards, classes, or a home-cooked meal. When shopping, source gifts and décor from local artisans and makers to reduce packaging and shipping distances. Planning ahead also reduces the need for last-minute expedited shipping, lowering both emissions and stress.

6. Food Without the Footprint

Use edible centerpieces like winter squash, pomegranates, nuts, and loaves of bread. Embrace “ugly” produce and cook creatively—carrot tops make pesto, and stale bread becomes stuffing or croutons. Incorporate locally grown ingredients from nearby farms or markets to reduce transport miles. Plan portions wisely, compost scraps, and provide reusable containers for guests to take leftovers home.

Celebrate consciously This Season

At its heart, holiday decorating is about creating spaces that nurture joy, belonging, and memory. Choosing sustainable options reduces waste and conserves resources while creating personal sanctuaries aligned with your values. Evidence-based design shows that environments rich in natural materials, thoughtful lighting, and meaningful objects support emotional well-being.

This season, no matter what you celebrate, consider how your home can shine more brightly—not by consuming more, but by celebrating wisely. In doing so, we give a gift that lasts far beyond the season: a healthier, more beautiful planet for generations to come.V

Randi Fuller can be found on social media @thescienceofsanctuaries and @mesquitetile or online at www.mesquitetile.com. Mesquite Tile is located at 521 W. Mesquite Blvd., Ste. A in Mesquite, Nevada. For more information, call (702) 346-7225.

Randi Fuller is a psychology-based design strategist and founder of The Science of Sanctuaries, an approach developed through her work as owner of Mesquite Tile & Flooring.

Kids For Sports Winefest 2025 A Night to Remember:

by Shanna Wylie | Photos by Kris Zurbis

The Kids For Sports Foundation’s annual Winefest, held at Wolf Creek Golf Club, once again proved why it has become one of the most anticipated events in Mesquite. This year’s celebration was more than just an evening of fine wines, spirited cocktails, gourmet bites, and lively entertainment—it was a heartfelt reminder of what can happen when a community comes together to support its kids.

From the moment guests stepped into the beautifully decorated venue, they were welcomed with an atmosphere buzzing with excitement. Signature cocktails, vibrant wine tastings, and a dinner spread set the stage for an evening filled with laughter, fun, and generosity. Between silent auctions, raffles, and contests, there was no shortage of ways to participate and give back, and attendees eagerly jumped in, making this year’s Winefest one of our most successful yet.

At the heart of it all was our mission: helping children participate in organized sports regardless of financial barriers. Kids For Sports exists so that no child has to sit on the sidelines because of cost.

Every dollar raised during Winefest directly supports local families by covering registration fees, uniforms, equipment, and travel expenses. We believe sports are more than games—they teach teamwork, discipline, resilience, and confidence—all lessons that shape tomorrow’s leaders.

The evening was also an opportunity to recognize the many hands and hearts who make Winefest possible. We extend our deepest gratitude to our generous sponsors, whose support allows us to

continue growing this signature event year after year. From wine and beverage partners to local businesses and individuals who gave raffle prizes and donations, your contributions truly made the night shine. To every sponsor, large or small, thank you for standing with Kids For Sports and helping us change lives.

A special note of appreciation goes to our president, Cory Clemetson, for their vision, leadership, and tireless dedication. Their commitment to the mission of Kids For Sports Foundation inspires us all, and their generosity helps ensure every event reaches its fullest potential. Their continued belief in the power of sports to transform lives is the very reason hundreds of children across our region are able to pursue their passions each year.

Of course, no Winefest would be complete without the community itself. Our heartfelt thanks go to every guest who purchased a ticket, placed a bid, bought a raffle ticket, or simply showed up ready to celebrate and support. Your presence made the night extraordinary. Together, you proved that when a community rallies around its youth, the results are powerful.

As the evening came to a close, the smiles, laughter, and sense of shared purpose lingered. This year’s Winefest was more than a party—it was a promise to keep opening doors for kids, giving them chances to play, grow, and thrive.

We look forward to seeing you at next year’s Winefest and invite you to continue this journey with us. With your help, the Kids For Sports Foundation will keep ensuring that every child has the chance to step onto the field, court, or track—not just to play, but to discover their potential.V

Celebrates its 25th Anniversary

by Yoli Bell

Good things can often result from bad situations. Such is the case with the creation of the Mesquite Cancer HELP Society (MCHS). Yoli Vernon Bell was 50 years old and knew first-hand the overwhelming impact cancer has on individuals and their family members. Yoli's mother died in 1973 at the age of 50 from Hodgkin's Lymphoma, an aunt died from Leukemia, and two cousins died from breast cancer. And if this exposure wasn't enough to bring the harsh reality of cancer into her life, Yoli was destined to experience her own battle beginning in January 2000, when a tumor was discovered in her right breast.

Unlike another tumor discovered when she was 17 years old, this one was cancerous. Facing her own battle with breast cancer over the next seven months proved to be the impetus for the creation of the Mesquite Cancer HELP Society.

Throughout chemo and radiation treatments, Yoli came to realize there was a greater, more empathetic way to relate to other cancer patients—helping each other by sharing thoughts and feelings in a truly genuine setting. This would help individuals feel at home while sharing with others who were seeking that same sense of security and HOPE within the battle to survive.

Knowing someone with the same type of cancer is a powerful tool because you are sitting next to a person you can connect with. You do not stand alone—you now have established a connection that becomes invaluable in understanding and dealing with the cancer journey.

In September 2000, she started to research the steps necessary to establish a non-profit organization that would serve cancer patients and their families in the Virgin Valley area. Initially, her search led her to the American Cancer Society (ACS), but becoming a chapter would mean that the money raised would not stay local but would be sent to the ACS instead. This was no "template" for developing the independent organization she envisioned for Mesquite and the surrounding communities. Creating one became her purpose in life.

There were times when the task seemed insurmountable, more than could be accomplished by one woman who had just completed her own chemo and radiation treatments. Two close friends, Judy and Anna, agreed to join forces with her. Judy had survived uterine cancer, and Anna's son was diagnosed with Stage 4 multiple myeloma and had just completed a year of clinical trials at the Hutchinson Cancer Research Hospital in Seattle, Washington. Anna passed several years later from pancreatic cancer.

Though she hadn’t yet created the official non-profit, Yoli began helping from her home in late 2000, guiding patients to available medical resources while offering limited fuel assistance. Finally, articles of incorporation were filed with the state of Nevada in April 2001, and the IRS granted the MCHS 501(c)(3) non-profit status in October 2001. The MCHS was one step closer to fully serving the residents of Mesquite and the Virgin Valley, but there was one last hurdle to jump—finding a place for it to call home. Preparing to formally help cancer

clients through support group sessions and potential other services involved a daily routine of knocking on doors to ask for a small space to be donated.

One thing was certain: this fledgling service organization did not have the funds to lease office space. Thankfully, Rich Gillespie, owner of the new SAGE Nutrition Store, came to the rescue by providing the society with a small space in the back room of his nutrition store. To acknowledge his contribution, Yoli volunteered to cover the operation of his store when Rich needed to be away. Confined as this first office space was, the MCHS officially opened its doors to the public, using some of Rich's stock shelves for wigs and educational material. A board of directors was created to include Rosemary Lindbeck, retired registered nurse; Dr. Mike Rice; Dr. Ann Rice; Mel Drown, City of Mesquite Finance Director; Carolyn Duggins, hospice registered nurse; Glen Horlacher, family counselor; Tom Stettler, veteran; and Allen Bell, city engineer.

Within two years, more selfless businesses in Mesquite stepped up and helped the MCHS move to a larger location. Randy and Tracey Johnson (Alford, Inc.) and Chuck Bentley (Pride Contractors) purchased a mobile building and located it on Mesquite Boulevard. Charlie Goessman donated and hooked up the air-conditioner. Mark Hanson, owner of Mesquite Furniture, donated furniture, and Kevin Parrish, owner of Mesquite Tile and Flooring, donated and installed carpet. The generous support of these fine people and countless volunteers ensured the MCHS was there to stay!

Now in its 25th year, the Mesquite Cancer HELP Society occupies office space at 150 N. Yucca Street, #36, and can be reached at (702) 346-0622. Client services have gone from the fuel assistance and guidance of 25 years ago to monetary assistance for chemotherapy and radiation treatments, flying patients to out-of-state cancer centers for specialized treatments, one-on-one professional counseling, and assistance with cancer-related medical bills. Support group sessions have grown and thrived with wonderful success. Countless other services are readily available.

The unprecedented work and donations that businesses, donors, and organizations continue to put forth to ensure the society remains in operation for years to come cannot be minimized. Truly, they are the ones who have given Yoli the backbone to continue in this journey.

A monumental dream, the Mesquite Cancer HELP Society next seeks to bring chemotherapy services into our community.V

You can contact Yoli by texting her at (702) 553-6523. For more information, visit their website at cancerhelpnv.com.

The Mesquite Cancer HELP Society serves Mesquite and the Virgin Valley.

The Art of Time and Money

by Nathan Hughes, AAMS®

Time and money shape nearly every decision we make. But which one truly defines our lives?

While growing up in Bunkerville, I had a childhood friend who had a beautifully crafted grandfather clock in his family room. I remember being mesmerized by its intricate moving parts. I’d watch the secondhand glide around the face. Tick-tock. Ticktock.

Let me ask you something—and answer honestly: What is the most valuable resource you possess?

When I ask this question to clients, the initial answers vary: “My business.” “My money.” “My portfolio.” But after some reflection, we always arrive at the same conclusion: time.

In The Art of Time, Jean-Louis Servan-Schreiber writes:

“Time is the most democratically distributed resource: every person has exactly the same amount of time available… It is clearly our most precious resource, for it is the only nonrenewable one. Unlike other resources, time cannot be bought or sold, borrowed or stolen, stocked up or saved, manufactured, reproduced, or modified. All we can do is make use of it. And whether we use it or not, it nevertheless slips away.”

In today’s world, our time and attention are constantly under siege. We give away our most precious resource—often without thinking. So ask yourself: did I make good use of my time today?

Money

Once we understand the value of time, we can better appreciate how money fits into the equation.

Most of us exchange time for a paycheck. The goal of financial planning is to convert that paycheck into assets—brokerage accounts, 401(k)s, rental income, business investments—that eventually allow us to stop trading time for money.

For example, to retire with $100,000 a year, you’d need about $2 million saved—assuming a 5% annual withdrawal. Once you save that amount, you have the freedom to stop exchanging your time for money and dedicate your most precious resource to other things. If you’re already retired, how are you using your time today? Are there new ways to allocate this resource?

Giving Back

One couple I work with found a meaningful way to give back— and involve their family in the process.

We opened a donor-advised fund (DAF) in their name during a year with a higher-than-usual tax liability. They received a significant tax deduction for the full amount donated. Each holiday season, they gather with their children and grandchildren to decide which causes to support. They donate from the DAF and then volunteer together.

They’re not just giving money—they’re giving time, values, and experiences.

Final Thought

How are you spending your time today? What memories are you creating with your loved ones? This season, consider how you’ll invest your time—not just your money.

Happy Holidays!V

Nathan Hughes, AAMS®, is president and advisor of Hughes Strategic Group, LLC DBA Pilot Wealth Strategies. He is a proud native of Mesquite, Nevada. Contact Nathan at (208) 490-5400 or info@pilotwealthstrategies.com.

Investment advisory services are offered through Hughes Strategic Group, LLC d/b/a Pilot Wealth Strategies, a registered investment advisor. This material is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice. Past performance is not indicative of future results. All investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. Analogies and examples are provided for illustrative purposes only. Financial outcomes vary widely and cannot be assured. While diversifying income sources may offer benefits, no investment strategy can guarantee income or eliminate financial risk.

Holidays Can Have Emergencies, Too

Here Are Important Things to Remember

by Dr. Taylor Smith, Medical Director of Emergency Services at Mesa View Regional Hospital

Even during the winter holidays and family gatherings, emergencies can happen. Knowing what to do if an emergency arises, when and how to administer first-aid care at home, and when to call for help or head to the closest emergency room can be vital to the health and well-being of you and your loved ones. It is also good to know that your local emergency department at Mesa View Regional Hospital provides round-the-clock emergency care. Staffed 24/7 by physicians experienced in emergency medicine, the ER at Mesa View is ready day and night to help patients receive appropriate care and treatment.

Educating yourself and your family about how to handle an emergency can also provide for the best possible outcomes. So let’s take a few minutes to review some simple steps that can make a big difference in your life!

First Aid Kit

Bumps, scrapes, and boo-boos can be handled at home with a well-stocked first aid kit. A necessity in every home, a first aid kit can help handle minor difficulties that don’t require the immediate care of a physician. Your kit should be stored in a central location in your home—within easy reach for adults, not young children. A properly stocked kit can help you manage emergency needs ranging from burns to a deep cut.

Check your kit regularly and replace missing items or expired medications. It’s a good idea to have a first aid kit in your home and another in the car. Don’t forget to take it with you on vacations, too!

First Aid Basics

Some general first aid tips for a few common situations:

· Bruises: Elevate and apply ice or a cold pack.

· Burns: Immerse the burned area in cool water for at least five minutes or until the pain subsides. Cover the area loosely with a sterile gauze bandage. Do not apply ice directly, and do not use ointments or butter.

· Minor bleeding or puncture wounds: Apply continuous, direct pressure with a clean cloth or towel to control bleeding for about 20 minutes. Rinse the wound with clean water (no soap, as this may irritate the wound). Apply an antibiotic and cover the wound with a bandage or sterile gauze.

Helpful Items to Include in a Family First Aid Kit:

· First-aid manual

· Sterile gauze

· Adhesive tape, adhesive bandages, and elastic bandages

· Antiseptic wipes

· Mild soap

· Antibiotic cream (triple-antibiotic ointment)

· Antiseptic solution (like hydrogen peroxide)

· Hydrocortisone cream (1%)

· Acetaminophen and ibuprofen

· Extra prescription medications

· Tweezers

· Sharp scissors

· Safety pins

· Disposable instant cold packs

· Calamine lotion

· Alcohol wipes or ethyl alcohol

· Thermometer

· Plastic gloves

· Flashlight and extra batteries

· List of emergency phone numbers

· Blanket

Be Prepared

According to the American College of Emergency Physicians, most emergencies at home can be managed using a fourstep process: Prevent, Prepare, Recognize, and Act. This includes mock emergency drills with family, CPR classes from our local fire rescue team or Red Cross office, and teaching children to call 9-1-1 in an emergency. Discuss with your family what constitutes an emergency, and in which situations it is appropriate to call for emergency help. Help younger family members memorize and practice the information they might need to provide, including home address, home phone number, and other questions the dispatcher will ask about the person who needs help (such as whether they are conscious and breathing).

What Patients Can Expect at Mesa View

In the ER, every minute counts. Alongside board-certified emergency physicians like me, we have 24/7 specialists available in cardiology and general and orthopedic surgery, which means we are prepared to provide care and treatment for a wide range of conditions.

For more complex medical emergencies, we work closely with area emergency first responders like Mesquite Fire Rescue to offer immediate care. Physicians work in concert with other medical professionals to determine what is best for the patient and if the best possible outcome requires going to a different facility.

When to Go to the ER

If the injury is severe or complications occur, such as continued bleeding, redness, pain, numbness, fever, or swelling, make that call to 9-1-1 for professional medical help or get to the emergency department safely.V

About the author:

Dr. Taylor Smith is an experienced physician, certified by the American Board of Emergency Medicine. He has served as Medical Director for the ER at Mesa View since 2015. For more information, visit MesaViewHospital.com/Emergency.

Winter Night Sky and Planetary Conjunctions

by Karen L. Monsen

Every year, around December 25, the origin of the Christmas Star—or Star of Bethlehem emerges in casual conversations. Theories of celestial events that may have produced the bright star referenced in the Gospel of Matthew include a comet, a supernova, individual planets, or planets in conjunction.

Ancient Astronomers

Before Greek and Roman astronomers, Babylonian skywatchers living along the Euphrates River (today’s Iraq and Syria) recorded celestial movements, believing them to be omens and messages from their gods. The brightest stars— actually planets—were Jupiter, their main god, Marduk; Venus,

the goddess of love and war, called Ishtar; and Saturn, the god of agriculture and healing, called Nintura.

Babylonian scholars created star and constellation lists around 1000 BCE, identified solstices and equinoxes, developed geometry to predict celestial movements, and created a lunar

calendar with months varying from 29 to 30 days. After Persia conquered Babylonia in 539 BCE, Greek and Roman sages used mathematics to explain planetary movements within their polytheistic universe. Magi (wise men) monitoring the sky for signs and prophesies believed comets were bad omens— unlikely to be a praiseworthy star.

American Celestial Observations

While Babylonians documented their sightings on clay tablets, Ancestral Puebloans living between AD 850 and 1250—where today’s Chaco Culture National Historical Park is in New Mexico—recorded their celestial observations on petroglyphs, pictographs, and the structural alignments of their buildings and kivas.

Contemporary astroarchaeologists continue to interpret the significance of light daggers and shadows on petroglyphs and other alignments around equinoxes and solstices in Chaco Canyon. Near Peñasco Blanco (White Bluff), pictographs depict observations of a comet, supernova, and solar eclipse. Events closest to the biblical Bethlehem Star reference include supernovas visible in Chaco in AD 1006 and 1054; a total solar eclipse on July 11, AD 1097; and Halley’s Comet in AD 1066. Following a fifty-year drought around AD 1130, the Puebloans departed, leaving their images, kivas, and great houses as testimony to their sky watching.

In a 2024 Forbes article, science and stargazer journalist Jamie Carter writes, “Although some have posited that it may have been a comet (Halley's comet blasted through the solar system in 12 B.C.) or a supernova (a distant star exploding and becoming visible in daylight for a few weeks), there's a decent chance it was either Venus—the brightest planet—or a conjunction of two planets.”

Planetary Conjunctions

Like runners on a track traveling at different speeds, planets in the same orbital plane viewed from Earth will appear close together in the sky as they pass each other. Early astronomers would have noticed when Jupiter and Saturn met three times around 7 BCE and when Jupiter and Venus had a conjunction four years later around 2 BCE, appearing almost to touch while still 403.3 million miles apart.

In an Astronomy Magazine article by Eric Betz published December 24, 2023, he writes that “…scholars have suggested the Star of Bethlehem may have actually been a ‘great conjunction’ of bright planets… Jupiter and Saturn came together in a ‘Great Conjunction’ in 2020 that was unlike any seen in nearly 800 years. The two planets appeared so close together in Earth’s night sky on the winter solstice they looked almost like a single object.” The next conjunction will occur on November 4, 2040, but for another close conjunction, you’ll need to wait until 2080.

Astronomer Dr. Tyler Nordgren believes the idea that the Star of Bethlehem was a conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn, Jupiter and Regulus, or Jupiter and Venus is “interesting conjecture.” Nordgren says, “Whenever you see two or more planets and the moon in the sky at once the line they form is evidence our solar system orbits the sun in a common plane. We actually see the disk of our solar system. And the fact that it is a disk with all the planets revolving around the sun in the same direction is one of the first clues we live in an ordered universe open to our understanding.”

DarkSky International

Previously called IDA, the non-profit organization DarkSky International (https://darksky.org/) helps people experience the universe by advocating for dark skies through night sky certification programs, local chapter activities, and community outreach. DarkSky provides educational resources, free lesson plans, and activity guides while supporting community science projects like Globe at Night (https://globeatnight.org/), a crowdsourced study launched in 2023 to measure night sky brightness, and The World at Night (https://twanight.org/), an international astrophotography community initially organized as Astronomers Without Borders.

DarkSky Communications Associate and astrophotographer Bettymaya Foott finds peace in the night sky. “I don’t feel fully myself if I haven’t connected to the dark night sky in a while,” she says. “It is so easy to get wrapped up in the bigness of our issues and problems and life’s difficulties, but standing under the night sky helps put it all into perspective for me. It’s hard to describe the feeling of standing alone along a lonely desert canyon, with just yourself and the stars as companions, and what that does to reset your soul.”

While speculation continues over what natural event produced the Christmas Star, historians agree that ancient civilizations closely monitored the night sky. By reducing nightly light scatter, we can better experience the majesty of the Milky Way and celestial events as we look to the heavens and follow the stars.V

Unlock Your Dog's Potential with Drop-In Training Classes

Try flexible sessions for basic obedience, advanced skills, nose work, and puppy socialization.

by Anita DeLelles, LMT

For many dog owners, traditional training programs can feel overwhelming. Weekly classes, strict schedules, and long-term commitments don’t always fit into busy lives. That’s where drop-in dog training classes shine. These flexible sessions allow you to show up when it works for you, learn at your own pace, and focus on the skills your dog needs most.

With a drop-in class, there’s no pressure to keep up with a group or stick to a rigid timeline. Whether you want to brush up on leash manners, reinforce basic obedience, or tackle more advanced skills, you can attend as often or as little as you like. Each session is designed to be self-contained, so you’ll always take away something valuable, no matter when you attend. Plus, the relaxed environment often makes training more enjoyable for both owner and pup. Drop-in training also keeps the learning process ongoing. Dogs thrive with consistent reinforcement. Over time, both you and your dog build confidence, skills, and a stronger bond without the stress of rigid expectations.

Drop-ins are also ideal for the holiday season. Between shopping, travel, and holiday events, life can get hectic this time of year, but your dog’s training shouldn’t be left behind. Maintain structure, reinforce good manners before guests arrive, or give your pup a productive outlet during the festive chaos. Come when you can, skip when you must—no pressure, just progress.

WOOF! Training Academy offers the following drop-in classes:

Mondays - Basic Obedience: Ideal for dogs over four months old, basic obedience classes help build a strong training foundation. These sessions focus on essential commands, loose-leash walking, impulse control (e.g., not jumping), focus around distractions, and good manners, including sit, stay, down, and come. Whether your dog is brand new to training or needs a brush-up, basic obedience drop-ins are a great place to start.

Wednesdays - Advanced Obedience: Ready to take it to the next level? Advanced obedience classes challenge your dog’s focus and reliability in real-world environments. These sessions often include off-leash control, long-distance commands, heel, and advanced leash work. They are perfect for dogs who’ve mastered the basics, are ready for more, and deal with real-life distractions.

Nose Work: Engage your dog’s natural scenting abilities in a fun and mentally stimulating way. Nose work drop-ins offer enrichment for all dogs, especially those with high energy or working instincts. Your dog will search for specific scents, work through scent puzzles, and build focus and confidence. Nose work is fun for pet parents, and dogs love it, making it a great way to bond and strengthen your relationship. This class is great for dogs of all ages and breeds. No prior training required.

Saturdays - Puppy Socialization: The early months are critical for developing a well-adjusted adult dog. These drop-in classes are offered in a safe, fenced yard and provide structured playtime and gentle exposure to new sights, sounds, people, and other puppies. Your pup will learn appropriate play behavior, build resilience to new experiences, practice early obedience skills, and get comfortable with being handled. Puppy socialization is a fun and essential start for your pup’s lifelong learning journey. And parents have the opportunity to meet new people and socialize as well.

If you’ve been putting off training because of time constraints, a drop-in dog training program may be the perfect fit. It’s flexible, approachable, and focused on real progress at your pace.V

To learn more, visit woofcenter.com. Call (435) 275-4536, or stop by WOOF! Wellness Center & Training Academy in Santa Clara.

The Thought KEEPING IT POSITIVE

by Judi Moreo, Author, Artist, Coach

Each of us owns a factory. Not one of brick and mortar, but something far more powerful—a Thought Factory. It’s located inside your head, and it runs twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

And here’s the best part: you are the CEO.

Nothing enters your Thought Factory without your approval. Nothing leaves it without your permission.

The ideas, emotions, and attitudes you allow in and out become the products your factory produces—and those products shape your reality.

The “products” it generates—beliefs, ideas, emotions, and habits—determine your attitude, relationships, finances, and ultimately, your success in life.

THE HOLIDAY OVERTIME SHIFT

During the holidays, your Thought Factory often goes into overdrive. Between shopping lists, social events, travel, and family expectations, your mental production lines can become overloaded. If you’re not careful, the products you ship out may be stress, worry, or frustration rather than peace, joy, or gratitude.

That’s why it’s critical to stay intentional about what your factory produces during this season. Just as a business carefully inspects products before sending them to customers, you must carefully examine your thoughts before releasing them into the world.

PRODUCTS OF THE MIND

Some people unknowingly operate their factories at a loss. Instead of manufacturing strength, they churn out fear. Instead of creating confidence, they release doubt. Instead of packaging patience, they box up anger or anxiety.

They don’t do this deliberately. They haven’t learned that they can choose what their factory produces. The truth is, your Thought Factory comes fully equipped with the machinery to produce better products—hope, courage, self-confidence, kindness, and joy. The secret is learning how to operate the equipment.

RUNNING A SUCCESSFUL THOUGHT FACTORY

Every great business has a plan. Your factory is no different. To run it successfully, you need strong leadership—yours. Here are a few keys to keeping your production lines running smoothly through the holiday season and beyond:

Know what you want your “products” to be.

Would you like to ship out gratitude or complaints? Joy or stress? Decide before the day begins, and guide your thoughts accordingly.

TAKE INVENTORY OF YOUR ASSETS

Compassion, creativity, patience, resilience—these are valuable raw materials. Use them. When you focus on your strengths, your factory runs at peak performance.

HARNESS YOUR INNER POWER

Faith, inner wisdom, and positive energy are renewable resources. Tap into them daily. They will keep your production lines energized even when outside pressures mount.

Thought Factory: THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS

STOP COMPETING WITH OTHERS

The holidays often bring out the comparison game—bigger gifts, prettier decorations, fancier parties. But your factory doesn’t thrive on comparison. Focus instead on being better today than you were yesterday.

CULTIVATE CHARACTER

Integrity, kindness, and patience are among the most valuable products you can manufacture. They enrich every relationship and spread joy during this season of giving.

TAKE ACTION

Dreams and plans mean nothing unless you put them into motion. Share love, give generously, and act with intention. A Thought Factory only prospers when it ships out its best products.

THE CEO’S HOLIDAY CHOICE

Every morning, you choose which production line to start working on. Will it be worry or gratitude? Fear or faith? Resentment or joy? Negative thoughts will always try to sneak in, especially during stressful holiday moments. But remember—you are the CEO.

If you discovered an employee sabotaging your assembly line, you’d dismiss them immediately. Treat unhelpful thoughts the same way. Guard your factory. Only allow what strengthens your spirit and enriches your life.

TRANSFORMING YOUR SEASON, ONE THOUGHT AT A TIME

History is full of people who changed their lives by managing their thoughts—leaders, entrepreneurs, and everyday individuals who turned setbacks into comebacks. They understood that circumstances don’t create success; it’s manufactured in the mind.

This holiday season, pause and ask: What is my factory producing today? Is it turning out stress, anger, and overwhelm? Or is it creating gratitude, joy, and connection?

STEP INTO YOUR ROLE

You were given this factory for a reason: you are capable of producing extraordinary results. Every time you choose joy over frustration, kindness over criticism, or faith over fear, you create products that uplift not only your own life but also the lives of everyone around you.

So as your Thought Factory works overtime this holiday season, take charge. Inspect your production lines. Choose positivity. And ship out the best products—love, peace, gratitude, and joy.

Because at the end of the day, the greatest gift you give is not wrapped in paper or tied with ribbon. It’s the life you create from the thoughts you produce.V

Judi Moreo is an award-winning author, international speaker, and businesswoman and is a highly sought-after coach. She has helped thousands of people worldwide gain confidence, overcome limitations, and achieve their goals. With 31 published books, including two international bestsellers, Judi draws on decades of experience in personal growth and success strategies—making her the perfect guide to explain how your “Thought Factory” can create the life you truly want. Contact Judi at judi@judimoreo.com. Her new novel, Chronicles of a Divided Land, is now available on Amazon.