Cedar City Insider
Archives
"Utah's Peanuts Legacy, Rural Healthcare Funding, God Particle Breakthrough, Federal Land Transfer, and Holiday Heroes!"


Subscribe
"Utah's Peanuts Legacy, Rural Healthcare Funding, God Particle Breakthrough, Federal Land Transfer, and Holiday Heroes!"

Cedar City Insider
Archives
"Utah's Peanuts Legacy, Rural Healthcare Funding, God Particle Breakthrough, Federal Land Transfer, and Holiday Heroes!"

Cedar City Insider Staff
Jan 1, 2026
Trivia Question❓What famous natural rock formation in Cedar City, Utah is often referred to as the "Heart of Cedar City" and serves as a popular hiking spot for locals and tourists alike? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
Stephanie Revelli, a Utah native and granddaughter of Peanuts creator Charles Schulz, reflected on his legacy.
The Pleasant Grove resident's heartfelt reflections come as communities across the state embrace the timeless appeal of her grandfather's beloved characters.
Just in Cedar City this month, Southern Utah University held a live "A Charlie Brown Christmas" show that sold out every night.
The special marked 60 years since the animated classic first aired, transforming into a cultural touchstone that spans generations.
"It relates to everyone," Revelli said. "I think every single person can read the comics and go, 'This is humanity. This is what we're all experiencing.'"
Read More... |
Quote Of The Day |
"Every day is a new beginning, take a deep breath and start again." |
Discover the best burgers in town at Seven Brothers Burgers. Enjoy our fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, unique flavors, and family-friendly atmosphere. |
Joke Of The Day |
Why did the coffee file a police report? It got mugged! |
Utah's rural communities just scored a massive healthcare victory with more than $195 million in federal funding through the Rural Health Transformation Program.
This historic investment will transform healthcare access across 25 of Utah's 29 rural counties, where residents currently face grueling travel times — some driving up to six hours one way just to see specialists.
The healthcare crisis is real and growing. Mental health issues have surged 47% since 2015, while Utah's most remote counties battle the highest rates of diabetes and high blood pressure.
The funding will expand primary care, maternal health, and behavioral health services while modernizing facilities with cutting-edge telehealth technology to bridge those geographic gaps.
Governor Spencer Cox called this an unprecedented opportunity for innovation at the federal level.
With maternal mortality risks increasing due to 60+ minute drives to birthing hospitals and a staggering 1,160% spike in fentanyl deaths, this $195 million first-year investment couldn't come at a more critical time.
The five-year program promises continued support, with Utah expecting at least $100 million annually through 2030. Read More... |
Interesting Facts |
|
A scientist based in Southern Utah has collaborated with Nagoya University in Japan to publish a study that could explain the potential benefits of molecular hydrogen therapy.
Dr. Tyler LeBaron's fascination with what he calls "the god particle" has driven him to explore hydrogen's fundamental role in existence itself.
The breakthrough couldn't come at a better time for Cedar City's growing reputation as a research hub, with Southern Utah University emerging as a significant academic force in the region.
LeBaron explains that hydrogen sits at number one on the periodic table for good reason - it's the universe's most fundamental building block, consisting of just one electron and one proton.
The collaborative research effort between the SUU adjunct instructor and prestigious Nagoya University has produced findings that challenge long-held scientific assumptions. Read More... |
Tip of The Day |
Visit the Frontier Homestead State Park Museum to learn about Cedar City's pioneer history and see artifacts from the past. |
Brian Head's pursuit of 24 acres of federal land advanced significantly when the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources unanimously approved the transfer Wednesday.
The Brian Head Town Land Conveyance Act would transfer land from Dixie National Forest directly to the southern Utah ski town. Senator Mike Lee called Brian Head a "mostly sleepy ski town" that becomes bustling during ski season.
Town officials say the land addresses critical infrastructure needs for a community hosting 300,000 winter visitors despite only 150 permanent residents.
The timing aligns perfectly with major expansion plans. Brian Head Town Council recently approved annexation of 1,799 acres for Aspen Meadows development, adding hundreds of skiable acres and multiple lifts to Brian Head Resort.
Senator Martin Heinrich negotiated an amendment requiring reversionary language — ensuring land returns to federal ownership if misused. Critics argue the free transfer sets dangerous precedent since typical federal land deals require payment or environmental review.
The Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance criticized the move, calling it an attempt to "give away public lands without public input."
The bill now advances to the full Senate for final approval. Read More... |
Secret Little Hack |
Visit the Neilson's Grove Park at sunset for stunning views of the red rocks and Cedar City skyline. |
Volunteer pilots across Southern Utah transformed their aircraft into holiday sleighs this December, delivering Christmas magic to children in remote communities.
Angel Flight West's Utah wing sent twenty pilots on a special Santa Flight mission, continuing a cherished tradition serving underserved Western communities since 2000.
The pilots delivered toys, winter coats, backpacks and over 500 books to approximately 500 students at Water Canyon Elementary in Hildale, Utah, and Cottonwood Elementary in Colorado City, Arizona.
Community sponsors including the John C. Kish Foundation, Bank of Utah, and the Leavitt Group donated colorfully wrapped packages. Students gathered at Colorado City airport to meet Santa, Mrs. Claus, and volunteer pilots.
Principal Brad Jolley noted the event created teachable moments about core values beyond seasonal celebration.
For the first time, both valley schools participated together, fostering unprecedented community connection.
Angel Flight West has grown since 1983 into a network of 1,800 volunteers completing over 100,000 missions for 30,000 passengers, primarily providing free medical transportation where short flights replace grueling car rides after treatment.
"We want children to have unique experiences and celebrate community," explained outreach coordinator Joanne Brattain. Read More... |
💡 Answer to Trivia Question: The "Heart of Cedar City" rock formation is known as the Red Hill or Red Cliffs National Conservation Area. |