Cooper Tait Parsons, a member of Venture Crew 2596 sponsored by the Mesquite 5th Ward of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was award his Eagle Scout Rank at a court of Honor on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2015. His Eagle Project was erecting a flag pole at the Winslow, AZ little league baseball field in honor of his friend who was killed while playing ball there. He graduated from Pine View High School and is attending Dixie State University. He is the son of Kristi Tausinga and Daniel Parsons. His favorite merit badges were canoeing, cooking and fishing. Ryan Toone, scoutmaster of Troop 2998, spoke and said, "Reaching the rank of Eagle Scout is not the main goal of scouting. The main part of scouting is helping boys build good character by internalizing the 12 points of the scout law - trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean and reverent. Scouting is also about helping the boys learn about the outdoors and how to make friends. The road to Eagle Scout is long and hard and only about 7% of the boys who start on the trail reach the rank of Eagle. The Eagle Scout who travels this road makes it easier for others to follow. Scouts learn self-reliance, integrity and learn to do the right thing. An Eagle Scout is respected for his contributions to the community. An Eagle Scout has an obligation now to teach and share his knowledge with others. The rank of Eagle Scout is a prestigious award but it is not the end, but the beginning to now go forth and have a greater capacity to serve God and his community and his fellow scouts." Kai Davis, Chartered Organization Representative, gave Cooper the Eagle Charge. He challenged him and stated, " You have an obligation to God and country and your fellow scouts to lead only to the best and lift up every task you do to the highest possible. America is a wonderful place but it is only as strong as the quality of its citizens. I charge you to clean living and honest work and unselfish service, and reverence for God." Mr. Davis presented the Eagle badge and pins to Cooper. Kristi, his mother, pinned the Eagle Ribbon on Cooper. Cooper was presented with a pocketknife engraved with the words "Eagle Scout" as a reminder of his achievement. This was a gift from the Virgin River Valley BSA.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is pleased to announce the appointment of six new Missionaries to represent the Church in the Virgin Valley area, including Beaver Dam, Littlefield, Scenic, Mesquite, and Bunkerville. The Mesquite Stake is home to over 4,800 LDS members. There are five buildings in which twelve different congregations attend their meetings each week. The only exceptions to the regular meetings are twice per year for the Church's World Wide Conferences, also broadcast to this area by satellite to selected Chapels, Internet, and Cable TV. The Stake Center is on North Arrowhead Lane, near the center of Mesquite. The Church welcomes interested visitors to any of the congregational meetings. Information on meeting times and location can be heard by calling the Information Line,702-346-8888. Missionaries come from locations all over the World. They come as volunteers, where some speak different languages, and all have a wide variety of experiences. Elder Chase is from Connecticut and is the District Leader in this area, Elder Pryor is from Idaho, Sister Balboa is from Hawaii and speaks English and Spanish, Sister Call is from Guatemala and speaks Spanish and English. Two of the Missionaries are from Mesquite, Elder McNeal, who was born and raised in Nebraska, and Sister McNeal, who was born and raised in Brazil and who speaks both Portuguese and English. All of the Missionaries listed in this article are authorized representatives of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and can answer any questions that you may have about the Church or the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Elder Chase and Elder Pryor can be reached at (702) 862 - 0978. Sister Balboa and Sister Call can be reached at(435) 826 - 0931. Elder and Sister McNeal can be reached at (308) 746 - 5283. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is pleased to announce the appointment of six new Missionaries to represent the Church in the Virgin Valley area, including Beaver Dam, Littlefield, Scenic, Mesquite, and Bunkerville. The Mesquite Stake is home to over 4,800 LDS members. There are five buildings in which twelve different congregations attend their meetings each week. The only exceptions to the regular meetings are twice per year for the Church's World Wide Conferences, also broadcast to this area by satellite to selected Chapels, Internet, and Cable TV. The Stake Center is on North Arrowhead Lane, near the center of Mesquite. The Church welcomes interested visitors to any of the congregational meetings. Information on meeting times and location can be heard by calling the Information Line,702-346-8888. Missionaries come from locations all over the World. They come as volunteers, where some speak different languages, and all have a wide variety of experiences. Elder Chase is from Connecticut and is the District Leader in this area, Elder Pryor is from Idaho, Sister Balboa is from Hawaii and speaks English and Spanish, Sister Call is from Guatemala and speaks Spanish and English. Two of the Missionaries are from Mesquite, Elder McNeal, who was born and raised in Nebraska, and Sister McNeal, who was born and raised in Brazil and who speaks both Portuguese and English. All of the Missionaries listed in this article are authorized representatives of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and can answer any questions that you may have about the Church or the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Elder Chase and Elder Pryor can be reached at (702) 862 - 0978. Sister Balboa and Sister Call can be reached at(435) 826 - 0931. Elder and Sister McNeal can be reached at (308) 746 - 5283.

Nearly 100 girls ages 8 to 11 years met with their leaders for a fun Saturday, August 29, 2015. This “Activity Day” was organized by the Mesquite Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and had the theme of Daughters of the King. The girls learned about their royal, spiritual heritage as they listened to speakers and engaged in activities to remind them of their Heavenly Father. Tori Robison, President of the Mesquite Stake Primary and organizer of this Activity Day was assisted by her councilors Gina Zarate and Christine Sawyer and her secretary Rachel Tanner. A presentation was made by Janet Dodenbier who spoke about the importance of serving others with the girls making fleece quilts to donate. Diana Frehner talked about manners and showed their application with a fun game show activity. Journal writing was presented by Nicole Burnside who read from her own journal and then helped the girls make journals to take home. Physical fitness was emphasized by Leigh Gubler who taught the girls a dance to show that exercise can be fun. At the end of more than four hours of fun and learning the girls relaxed with a lunch of sandwiches, chips, fruit salad and cupcakes. Leader Gina Zarate felt that “this day should help these girls remember how special they are and what they need to be doing.” Ten year old Kately Hansen who really enjoyed all the things she learned said “ I especially liked learning about journal writing and making the journal.” Ten year old, Emma Houston said this of her favorite part of the day. "I liked when they told us we all wear invisible crowns because we are all royalty. We are all Princesses of our Heavenly Father." These girls who came from all over the valley left the program with good memories and helpful knowledge to use in their everyday lives.

Nani and Randy Woods will serve as a Missionary Couple for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Their 18 month mission will be in the Washington Tacoma Mission. Their specific assignment will be Recreation Specialists at a church-owned camp in the Puget Sound area. Brother and Sister Woods will assist with Youth Conferences, Family Reunions, Girls Camps and general maintenance on the property. They are excited to begin Randy’s retirement in this new adventure and opportunity to serve.

Elder Cody Burnside has been called to serve in the Texas South Mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. To begin his 24 month mission, he will report to the Missionary Training Center on August 26th. Cody’s parents are Jody and Nichole Burnside of the Mesquite 2nd Ward. Elder Burnside will be speaking August 23, 2015 at 9am in the Littlefield Chapel, Arizona.

Brayton Tobler received his Eagle Scout Award at a Court of Honor. Brayton is a member of Venture Crew 2493 sponsored by the Mesquite 4th Ward of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He organized a Gala for Gifts Community Benefit Concert to benefit Primary Children’s Hospital in Salt Lake City. Members of the community and the Virgin Valley High School’s music department shared their talents and the attendees donated needed items. The donations exceeded more than $1000 in merchandise and nearly doubled the toys and items in the supply room at the hospital. Brayton is a junior at Virgin Valley High School where he is a member of the show choir, cross county team and the track team. He is the son of Brad and Stephanie Tobler of Mesquite. On August 22nd, Scoutmaster Brent Hughes spoke and recited the Scout Prayer. He said, “Brayton, you have shown responsible character as a Patrol Leader and I would like to present you with a hand carved deer antler knife that I made.” Ben Rebman, youth leader and an Eagle Scout, said, “Brayton, I charge you to be Honest, Kind and Courageous in all your actions as you go forward in your life.” His father, Brad Tobler, presented the Eagle ribbon and pin and changed Brayton’s neckerchief from Boy Scout to the blue Eagle Scout neckerchief. Brayton presented his mother with a pin in gratitude for all she has done to help him through the ranks of scouting. Brayton’s parents said, “It’s been our privilege to watch and support his efforts in achieving all the necessary goals required for the rank of Eagle Scout. He has always enjoyed scouting, even as a cub scout, he excelled and delighted in the program. We’ve noticed he’s a better person as he’s participated in scouting. He’s learned many useful lessons and made lifelong friends. Coming up with an Eagle project took some time and careful thought. Brayton is one who has much to offer through his talents and his ability to uplift others. His project met him with a few obstacles, but through patience and perseverance he succeeded. We are very proud of his accomplishments and have always encouraged scouting in our home.” Brayton received a letter from Primary Children's Hospital's Foundation Director, Sharon Goodrich who wrote, "Please know that your gift of toys and craft items delighted patients at Primary Children's Hospital. With your support, we are able to further the hospital's philosophy, "The Child First and Always". On behalf of the children and families we are privileged to serve, we express our heartfelt gratitude for your kindness." Brayton said, “I am grateful to be able to benefit the children at the hospital and I feel uplifted to have the community's support in my Eagle Project.” Brayton presented the Mentor pin to his grandfather, Eric Norried, who always encouraged and supported Brayton to complete his Eagle Rank Advancement. He said, “I would like to present you with this hand carved 6” eagle walking stave that I had saved for the last 30 years to pass on to you to remind you to continue to uphold the scout oath and law.” Mark Tichenor, Virgin River Valley BSA Chairman, said, “Brayton, I would like to present this pocketknife engraved with the words, “Eagle Scout” to help you remember this advancement and the Eagle Scout Charge.”

Elder Nick White has returned from serving a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served in the Texas Lubbock Mission for 24 months. Steve and Jan White of Mesquite 5th ward are Nick’s parents. Elder White will speak August 16, 2015 in the Whipple Chapel at 11:00 AM.

Elder Dacen Cox of the Mesquite 6th Ward has been called on a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Dacen will report to the Missionary Training Center on September 2nd. Elder Cox will serve 24 months in the Independence, Missouri Mission. His parents are Kurt and Ronya Cox of the Mesquite 6th Ward. Elder Dacen Cox will speak Sunday, August 16, 2015 at 9 am in the Whipple Chapel, located on N. Arrowhead.

Elder Tyler Hughes has been called to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Yakima, Washington Mission will be his home for 24 months. Tyler is the son of Jeff and Jodi Hughes of the Bunkerville 2nd Ward. On August 26, 2015, he will report to the Missionary Training Center. Elder Tyler Hughes will be speaking in the Bunkerville Chapel, Sunday, August 16, 2015 at 9:00 am.

Cache Burnside received his Eagle Scout Award in a ceremony on August 12, 2015. He is a member of Venture Crew 2082 sponsored by the Mesquite 2nd Ward of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His Eagle Project was planting and installing a watering system around the backside of Hunter Park to help beautify the city park and provide shade. He earned a total of 26 merit badges; only 21 are required to earn the Eagle Scout Award. He is a junior at Virgin Valley High School and a member of the wrestling team, football team and competes in roping. He is the son of Jody and Nichole Burnside . A video of eagles was shown explaining the meaning of the Eagle, “The Eagle is a symbol of strength and courage, of victory and spiritual energy; it shows triumph of good over evil. The Eagle’s gaze is fixed on heaven and is a symbol of ascension soaring to the highest height.” Mark Tichenor, District Chairman, opened the Nation Boy Scout Court of Honor stating, “The Eagle Scout Award symbolizes years of work, 7 tracks of increments in learning safety for oneself, working as a team or being a leader. It symbolizes many hours of service and living the Scout Oath and Law. It is not a certificate to pack away but to remember in your daily activities and live to the best you can be. The character leaned in scouting will carry you throughout your life and in your work and business. The Eagle award represents you for the rest of your life – stick with your goals.” Rusty Hughes, scout leader, gave Cache the Eagle Charge, “The Eagle Award is an honor that carries with it a responsibility. You have a duty to your fellow scouts to honor the scout oath and law. America has many good things and it depends on the quality of its citizens. I charge you to lead and lead to the best and finest living. Dedicate your life to the common good, honest citizenship, unselfish service and reverence for God.” Cache presented his mentor pin to Ray Toombs, his scoutmaster for helping him along the trail and helping them have fun while learning and camping. His mother, Nichole said, “Cache is a true scout. He could survive out in the wilderness by being creative with his surroundings. There are many skills he has learned that he enjoys & developed hobbies from, others he has learned he can do without. Thank you to all of his Scout Leaders, for their time, talents, & dedication.” Cache said, “Working toward my Eagle has helped me learn to plan and organize people to help. My favorite merit badge was horsemanship. We went on some camp out and took our horses; those were the best times.”

Sister Myrissa Bunker will be returning home on August 4, 2015 from her 18 month mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She served in the Chesapeake, Virginia Mission. She will be reporting her mission on August 9, 2015 at 9:00am in the Bunkerville 2nd Ward at the Bunkerville Chapel.

Elder Cecil and Sister Carol Leavitt have been called to serve another mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This time they will be in the Ohio Cleveland Mission as Office Specialists. "Our first mission together was to Johannesburg South Africa from September 19th 2011 to August 29th 2013. Cecil's first mission was when he was single and served in Northern California, 1958 - 1960. We are excited about returning to the mission field and will do our very best to represent our Ward, our Stake, our family, and our Savior the best we can" said Sister Leavitt. They will enter the Missionary Training Center on August 11. Brother and Sister Leavitt will serve. On Sunday, July 26, 2015 at 11 am they will speak in the Bunkerville 2nd Ward, in the Bunkerville Chapel.