Press Release - August 3, 2015


Healthy Dixie Council Initiates Community Garden Program; $20,000 Earmarked for Grants

Washington County Program Helps Communities Gain Access to Fresh Fruit and Vegetables

Saint George, UT, August 3, 2015 - The Healthy Dixie Council today announced that it has committed $20,000 to assist grassroots efforts to establish community gardens in Washington County to help increase access to fresh fruits and vegetables. The grant program is part of the outreach the Council is making in its overall mission to encourage healthy lifestyles among the citizens of the County. In addition to the grant program, Healthy Dixie has worked with government agencies to formulate policies that delay water impact fees for community garden plots.

"One simple, yet important, way to be healthy is through eating wholesome nutritious foods,” said Jordan Merrill, Health Educator for Southwest Utah Public Health Department. “Community gardens provide nutrient packed fresh fruits and vegetables that are inexpensive and highly beneficial for our bodies. Community gardens are a real asset to any community they are a part of.”

Along with physical health these gardens also provide a greater sense of community ownership while increasing relationships with neighbors by sharing gardening skills and responsibilities. The $20,000 will be divided into several smaller start-up grants over a two-year period. The grant is intended to assist in covering the cost of water meter installation and irrigation systems on vacant land with the owner’s consent.

Delaying impact fees is a national trend that has been proven successful over time in many communities, resulting in beautified neighborhoods, improved access to fresh produce, and engaged youth, according to a study in the Journal of Hunger and Environmental Nutrition.

“I have found that my own children have an increased appetite for vegetables they have grown and harvested themselves and which they would otherwise most likely not consume,” said Arthur LeBaron, Hurricane City Engineer and Chair Elect of Healthy Dixie.

According to a study by the New York University School of Law, community gardens also provide a significantly positive impact in residential property values and an increased rate of a home ownership.

“Healthy Dixie appreciates the positive response of numerous city officials and the Washington County Water Conservancy District in helping to improve access to grassroots community gardens,” Steve Bingham, Chair of Healthy Dixie Council.

About Healthy Dixie

Healthy Dixie is a group of Washington County citizens involved in government, business and education and committed to promoting healthy habits in the County. The Council strives to encourage positive lifestyle and legislative change through community and government outreach and education with the goal of improving the overall health of the citizens of Washington County.

The Council distributes grants for programs which encourage healthy lifestyles, creates community-based events and participates in wellness expos. More information and help on organizing a community garden is available at www.healthydixie.org or email healthydixie@gmail.com.

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Press Release - July 1, 2015


Healthy Dixie Council of Presents Recognition Award to Lorri Soqui
Award Based on Contributions to Creating a Healthy Community


July 1, 2015 - ST. GEORGE – The Healthy Dixie Council of Washington County today announced that Lorri Soqui, nationally recognized healthy posture specialist, has been named the recipient of the Healthy Dixie Recognition Award. The award is given to individuals and organizations in recognition of their contributions to creating a healthy community. Lorri has helped hundreds of people in the Washington County community improve their health and well- being through her unique approach to healthy posture, as well as numerous other wellness related activities. The award ceremony takes place on July 1 at Noon at the Summit Athletic Club at 1532 East 1450 South in Saint George.

Healthy Dixie is a county-wide council that meets monthly to discuss initiatives that would improve the health and quality of life for residents in Washington County. It consists of local citizens, businesses, city governments, the school district, and health entities working together to promote health and wellness.

“The Healthy Dixie Award is an opportunity to recognize people or organizations who are taking action to improve the health of our community and thank them for their contributions,” said Steve Bingham, Recreation Manager for the Leisure Services Department, City of Saint George and a member of the Healthy Dixie Council. “We are very fortunate to have someone in our midst with Lorri’s skills and dedication. Lorri has helped to change the health of hundreds of our citizens and it is with great pleasure that we recognize her efforts.”

“I am honored to receive this award from the Healthy Dixie Council, which strives to improve the life of the citizens of Washington County,” said Lorri. “The effects of poor posture are not just reflected in the mirror, but also are an indication of overall health. As posture is corrected, there is less stress and pain in the neck, back shoulders, hips knees and feet. It is my passion to help people not only become healthier and relieve pain, but also to live a happier, more active life.”

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