St George, UT May 2024

Celebration of Women

Dear Readers,

I love any opportunity to recognize the women who make life richer and more beautiful. And of course, with Mother’s Day this month, all eyes are on mothers; but it is not just the biological mothers, but the mother figures in our lives who have made an indelible impact on us. They are the family members, teachers, friends and neighbors doing remarkable things in our communities.

I have just spent a few weeks visiting a friend, a woman who deeply inspires me. I was 17 when I met Helen Kwong at college in Hawaii. She attended high school in Idaho, but before that she lived in Hong Kong—and before that she lived in Mainland China. I was intrigued and in awe by her story of the upheaval in China at the time, and her escape into Hong Kong as a small child. Brave and courageous, she valued education and developed a faith so strong that when I met her as a student, she appeared fearless and undaunted in achieving her aspirations.

After earning her university degree, she served children on a reservation in the desert southwest before returning to Hawaii and marrying Charles Goo. Together they reared a family of five children. Helen forever will be known for her entrepreneurial spirit and her service and dedication to her community, whether in Hong Kong, Hawaii, Utah or New York. Whenever I think of Helen, I am reminded of the passage in Proverbs 31:10 “Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies.”

On another front: In commemoration of International Women’s Day in March, my son curated the following on his Facebook page, which deserves mention: “I am so grateful for the women in my life who have and continue to teach me: Empathy. Hope. Compassion. Forgiveness. Faith. Respect. Kindness. Strength. Gentleness. Wisdom. Manners. Music. Accountability. Temperance. Passion. Integrity. Boundaries. Virtue. Affection. Healing. Courage. Adventure. Etiquette. Warmth. Beauty. Communication. Organization. Presence. Loyalty. Independence. Expressiveness. Generosity. Joy. Charity. Perseverance. Leadership. Authenticity.  And, of course, above all things: LOVE.”

Yes, what a great summary of what we see demonstrated by the women in our southern Utah communities. For them, like my son says, “I am so grateful …”

With warmest admiration,

JJ ABERNATHY, EDITOR

CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/STGEORGE

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Paula Christie | paula.christie@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

JJ Abernathy | jj.abernathy@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Holly Infante | holly.infante@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Terry Dennis | terry.dennis@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Asher Swan

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Holly Infante | holly.infante@citylifestyle.com

PHOTO EDITOR

Lori Hansen

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

JJ Abernathy, Fred Bernhardt, Kristen Clark, David Cordero, Marianne Hamilton, Rick Smith, Asher Swan

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

JJ Abernathy, Melody Averett, Wendi Bulkley, David Cordero, Rhonda Miller, Park City Blinds, Asher Swan

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.

Enhancing the Windows to Your World

Back in the Saddle Again

It's My Turn

city scene

1: Southwest Symphony Board Chair, Alyce Gardner; renowned pianist, Jeffrey Biegel; and Maestro Lucas Darger at Gershwin concert 2: Jim Christensen and Jeri Gressman attend The Creative Age symposium at the Eccles at Utah Tech 3: The Knoops, presenters at the Creative Age symposium, talk about mobile phone photography 4: Creative Age presenters: Wayne Provost, Drew Williams, Steve Lipson, Bradlyn Wissert, Benja Peterson and Shane Williams 5: Co-chairs of the Creative Age Conference, Samala Dingus and Paula Bell Christie 6: Kalina Tucker, a senior at Utah Arts Academy, performs at the Creative Age Symposium 7: Melisa Rain, Penny Cole, Marianne Hamilton and Kalina Tucker attend The Creative Age symposium at Utah Tech Photography by JJ Abernathy

city scene

CONTINUED

8: A Night with Ellie Welker, violinist; Mark Gubler, pianist; Philippe Hall, vocalist, at the Tabernacle 9: Keynote speaker, U.S. Representative, Celeste Maloy, at the St. George Area Chamber Element Awards luncheon 10: Shawn Christensen, St. George Area Chamber of Commerce CEO, welcomes attendees at Element Awards luncheon Photography by JJ Abernathy

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business monthly

Western Skies Aviation Holding Festivities Honoring Armed Forces Members

Western Skies Aviation Warbird Museum, located at the St. George Airport, honors members of the Armed Forces with an open house Friday and Saturday, May 17 and 18, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Planes and displays will be joined by military aircraft flown in for the event. Admission is $5. A 1940s-style swing dance will be held Saturday at 6 p.m. Admission is $25.Visit westernskywarbirds.org. Address: 4196 S. Airport Parkway, St. George.

Madonna Melton of the DOVE Center Receives Element Award

Madonna Melton has been a compassionate and tireless advocate for more than 25 years at The DOVE Center as operations and shelter director. She has been instrumental in leading and expanding the center's critical services, which provide safety, healing and hope for survivors of abuse. Her unwavering commitment to empowering vulnerable individuals and families to transition to independent lives has made an immeasurable impact on the community. She is truly deserving of the Element Award.

Scan

Element Award Given to Kelly Shannon of Katering Koncepts

Kelly Shannon, president and co-founder of Katering Koncepts, is a winner of the  2024 Element Awards by the St. George Area Chamber of Commerce. Kelly is truly the resilient and innovative leader behind the company. For more than 15 years, she has grown her family business into a southern Utah staple. A trailblazer, Kelly wows clients with mouthwatering dishes, seamless event execution, unparalleled service and attention to detail—a prominent business leader in southern Utah.

Photography Courtesy of Rick Smith

Photography by JJ Abernathy

Photography by JJ Abernathy

Upcoming Events

10 May

Coyote Tales

The Night’s Theme: GIFT

3 May

DOCUTAH presents: Tour of Honor

A group of 21 World War II, Korea, and Vietnam Veterans are flown back to Washington D.C to see their memorials in an immersive and emotional documentary. FILM

Coyote Tales are live, open-mic style storytelling events with amateur and experienced storytellers.

25 May

17-19 May

Festival of the Americas

Wander through a vibrant marketplace of native arts and crafts featuring regional vendors showcasing exquisite handcrafted and indigenous products and art.

Soirée Musicale with Jason Bonham

An exciting evening of instrumental music featuring pop, jazz, and movie music from the Beatles, Queen, Chick Corea, Batman and more!

28 May

LECTURES & IDEAS

Voyager Lecture Series

Presents Ian T. Baldwin

The natural function of nicotine and other botanical tales of intrigue from Kayenta’s neighborhood.

Natalie Ashby of Intermountain Health Achieves Element Award

Natalie Ashby is an exceptional healthcare leader who serves as President of St. George Regional Hospital and Intermountain Health's Southwest Utah market. With more than 28 years of nursing experience, Natalie has been instrumental in driving the hospital to high standards of patient care, safety and services. She has deftly led the hospital in providing more than $42 million in charity care while employing over 3,000 caregivers.

Photography by JJ Abernathy

Enhancing the Windows To Your World

PARK CITY DESIGN & BLIND SHOWCASES

EXPERTISE IN ST. GEORGE

Since 1995, Park City Blind & Design has been beautifying internal spaces with high-end, custom window treatments, upholstery, motorization and bedding. Southern Utah home and business owners now can take advantage of the family-run company’s expertise, thanks to their new St. George showroom.  St. George City Lifestyle recently caught up with co-owner Ann Olson to chat about Park City Blind & Design’s beginnings and their expansion to Washington County.

WHEN WAS THE COMPANY FIRST LAUNCHED, AND BY WHOM?

Tim Luger, the original founder, started Park City Blind & Design in 1995. Shortly afterward, he hired my husband, Clint. They worked together until 2017, when Tim retired. Clint and I then bought the business from him, and we have run it together ever since.

WHAT WAS YOUR BACKGROUND BEFORE YOU TOOK OVER THE BUSINESS—WERE YOU AN INTERIOR DESIGNER?

I’ve always had a love for interior design. But before we purchased the business, I was a full-time mom of eight. Once we bought the business, Clint oversaw the selling side, and I handled the accounting and marketing. Today we have many family members and friends who work for us, and we’ve grown the business to over 30 employees.

ARTICLE BY MARIANNE HAMILTON | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF PARK CITY BLINDS

WHAT LED YOU TO EXPAND TO ST. GEORGE?

We’d been in Park City since 1995. We enjoy spending time in St. George, and we had done a lot of work in the area throughout the years. It seemed like a natural next step. We are thrilled to be here!

WHAT IS YOUR KEY DIFFERENTIATOR—WHAT MAKES PARK CITY BLIND & DESIGN UNIQUE?

We’re unique because we have a high level of service and attention to detail. We want our clients to work with us for life. We know they have many options available, and we always want to be their number-one choice. We have something for everyone.

WHEN A NEW CLIENT DECIDES TO WORK WITH YOU, WHAT IS YOUR PROCESS?

First, we always like to assess our new clients’ needs and wants. We do an on-site consultation to get measurements and to determine the best window treatment solutions for each area. We also invite them to our showroom to see and handle samples of the products we recommend. Once the selections are made, we custom-order each treatment to get the perfect fit and function.

A VISIT TO YOUR WEBSITE SHOWS VERY HIGH-END, SOPHISTICATED PRODUCTS. DO YOU WORK WITH COST-CONSCIOUS CLIENTS WHO MIGHT BE SEEKING MORE AFFORDABLE OPTIONS?

We work with some of the top interior designers and builders in the state, as well as contractors and property managers. We also work with those looking to furnish their first home. We have something for everyone. We offer both quality and value.

We want our clients to work with us for life. We know they have many options available, and we always want to be their number-one choice.

We enjoy spending time in St. George, and we had done a lot of work in the area throughout the years. It seemed like a natural next step. We are thrilled to be here!

WHAT DO YOU MOST WANT THE COMMUNITY TO KNOW ABOUT PARK CITY BLIND & DESIGN?

We believe we are helping to fill a void in the market. Our years of experience and expertise are unmatched. We have an amazing St. George team that is great to work with. We’d welcome the chance to create beautiful and functional window treatments, exterior screens, bedding and pillows for your home or business. Also, we have a beautiful showroom. We’d love to have you come in for a visit anytime!

Park City Blind & Design services the communities of St. George, Hurricane, Cedar City, Ivins, La Verkin, New Harmony, Santa Clara, Washington County, Mesquite and all surrounding area s.  For a complimentary in-home consultation, visit  parkcityblind.com/contact-us online, or visit their showroom at 1333 South Auto Mall Drive #305, St. George.

Marianne Hamilton is a veteran journalist and marketing writer whose work appears in regional and national publications.

50 Over 50

Master photographers, Melody Averett and Rhonda Miller, shine a spotlight on women in our community

At Santa Clara City Hall, a collection of powerful, poignant photographs recently graced the walls. The “50 Over 50” exhibit, displayed during a special event on April 3, was the culmination of a visual project first envisioned by M&R Gallery of Photography, the St. George-based purveyors of fine art portraiture.

Owned by master photographers, Melody Averett and Rhonda Miller, M&R has offered a range of high-end photographic services— including the creation of portrait photos transformed into museum-quality painted canvases, evocative black and white photography, business headshots and “classic” photography—since 2008. While the pair usually focuses their lenses on families, couples, children, graduates and the like, in the new exhibit the photographers—both of whom are over 50—were compelled to shine a light on their peers.

“At one point we realized that older women were underserved,” Melody notes.

“We tend to put ourselves on the back burner; to ‘hide’ behind our children, our

families and our spouses. We create our purpose or intention by the achievements that are outside of us, not within us.”

With a goal of celebrating and empowering this demographic, M&R launched 50 Over 50 on their website, to immediate and overwhelming response. Participants were offered a package that included a preliminary consultation, a professional hair and makeup session, the photo shoot, the production of a fine art matted portrait—and, perhaps most importantly, the chance to be honored with their fellow subjects at the City Hall event.

In keeping with M&R’s business model, the photographers first held a “design session” with each woman wishing to be photographed. They asked questions about their lives, triumphs, challenges, passions, hobbies, families and more, honing in on the uniqueness of each.

Says Rhonda, “We wanted them on board as far as what they envisioned. We wanted to get them dreaming about what they’d like to see in their portraits.”

ARTICLE BY MARIANNE HAMILTON PHOTOGRAPHY BY M&R GALLERY OF PHOTOGRAPHY

Melody and Rhonda of M&RGallery

"

...Most of them had no idea how beautiful they truly are.”

“We just let them dream,” Melody confirms. “We had women bring in musical instruments and pets; some who teach self-defense came in their gear. We really tried to capture what everyone was passionate about.”

Admittedly, the process of being transformed for—and sitting in front of the camera—can be intimidating. A few subjects were not used to wearing makeup or having their hair styled, circumstances that Melody and Rhonda handled with their usual aplomb and nurturing manner.

“One of the things we told our makeup artists and hair stylists was that they needed to listen to each woman about how she felt; to not do too much,” Rhonda says. “Then after the photo shoot, the most powerful part of the process was watching each woman view her photos for the first time. To see their expressions, and the tears flowing down their faces as they saw their portraits…it was amazing. Most of them had no idea how beautiful they truly are.”

Though the April exhibit was only in place for a single evening, the first 50 Over 50 project is now archived on the M&R Photography website. And if you ask the studio’s owners—both of whom have undergone the hair and makeup transformation prior to sitting for the cameras themselves—it will not be the last time they’ll highlight accomplished women in their prime.

“We’re actually starting our next 50 Over 50 now,” Rhonda reports. “There are so many amazing women in our community; they’ve just propelled us to keep going. We hope others will want to participate in the future.”

“When we first came up with this project,” Melody adds, “we thought it would be about us empowering women. But what we found is that the women have really empowered us.”

For more information about M&R  Gallery and the 50 Over 50 project, visit mandrgallery.com

Back in the Saddle Again

ARTICLE BY FRED BERNHARDT PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

A major change in Utah Tech University athletics—the ascension to Division 1 competition—is creating a new dynamic and elevating the need for greater community engagement and support. One way to achieve this level of support is by boosting the number of people attending athletic events, and yet another is by increasing donor support from within the community. Wendi Bulkley has returned to the Trailblazers to lead this charge.

After a two-year break working for TDS Telecommunications, Wendi has once again made her “home” in the Burns Arena Utah athletic offices, with a new title and renewed enthusiasm for Trailblazer Nation.

WENDI BULKLEY RETURNS TO THE UTAH TECH ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT AS ITS NEW ATHLETIC DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

"BRING YOUR KIDS AND GRANDKIDS OUT TO SEE SOME INCREDIBLE TALENT ... BE A PART OF THE FUN AND THE LEGACY WE ARE CREATING HERE AT UTAH TECH!”

“Here’s to being back and blazing new trails,” she says, “I hope to see everyone at some games!  Go Trailblazers!”

Now that UT athletics has joined the Western Athletic Conference or WAC, additional funding for the 14 men’s and women’s sports teams is needed. Further needs include facility upgrades, equipment, travel and nutrition programs. The goal is to make UT a university where athletes want to stay for their entire college careers. Wendi is charged with raising needed funds from the community and enhancing the fan experience at major athletic events. She will also oversee The Trailblazer Club expansion, providing its members with additional benefits.

Wendi reports that ideas to fill more seats at UT football and men’s and women’s basketball games are on their way, so watch for promotions during those seasons. Division 1 scheduling now means that UT athletics will attract higher caliber competition coming to visit our area. Teams with national recognition are headed this way. This will be an economic boon for southern Utah as these teams and their fans come to St. George.

Q: WHERE DOES YOUR LOVE FOR AND COMMITMENT TO THIS COMMUNITY AND UTAH TECH COME FROM?

A: I love this southern Utah area. I met my husband here. My first job was as director of the Washington City Community Center. After nine years there, I was offered the position as associate athletic director at then Dixie State, which I couldn’t pass up. Now, after two years at TDS, I’m back with the Trailblazers and big things are on the horizon!

Q: HOW DOES YOUR FAMILY MANAGE THE WORKLIFE BALANCE CHALLENGES THAT CAN COME WITH A DYNAMIC AND DEMANDING CAREER?

A: We try to combine my work with our whole family whenever we can. My husband, Jake, and our four children attend UT athletic events whenever their schedules permit. I appreciate Jake so much for allowing me to fulfill my dreams, develop my passions and serve both the university and community we love.

Wendi Bulkley

ATHLETIC DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

This past February, UT Athletic Director, Ken Beazer, called to offer me the position as Athletic Development Officer. I was overjoyed with the opportunity to return to Trailblazer Nation. Having taught courses in Sports and Recreation Management, and Events Marketing, to UT students in the past, now I can use my experience and skillset to directly affect UT’s athletic development efforts. Additionally, as Director of Community Engagement for our student-athletes, I will connect these talented students with the local schools, public events and private functions to further build community recognition and support.

Wendi’s invitation to the community: “Make attending games a family affair—bring your kids and grandkids out to see some incredible talent and be a part of the fun and the legacy we are creating here at Utah Tech!”

Q: WHAT IS YOUR MESSAGE TO OUR COMMUNITY ABOUT SUPPORTING UTAH TECH ATHLETICS?

A: Utah Tech is a valuable and growing asset with 13,000 students, and its athletic programs are a big part of it. Cheering for our teams at games and supporting them monetarily can build a real sense of community.

We are making great partnerships here, such as the one we now have with the Black Desert Resort. Its golf course will be the home golf course for our men’s and women’s golf teams, and special practice facilities are being created for them. It’s a BIG win-win!

Our student-athletes need internships and service hours to fill their resumes, so I will be creating more business partnerships. I will be working hard and can’t wait to see how this all comes together over the next few years!

More about Wendi: Wendi has a bachelor’s degree in business leadership and recreation management and a master’s degree in public administration. She has 21 years of progressively responsible experience working as an expert in her field of marketing, fundraising, donor relations and events. Her education, leadership and business experience have given her the opportunity to use innovative and creative methods for business growth, economic development and community engagement. Wendi has fostered and grown corporate relationships into millions of dollars in naming rights partnerships, including to expand Greater Zion Stadium, a transition to Division 1 status and corporate sponsorships. She has pioneered new ideas for community events and sports marketing approaches, and she provides leadership, strength and development to every organization she has worked with throughout her student, volunteer and professional career.

Currently, Wendi serves on various community organizations, including the St. George Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and as chair of the Washington County Fair Parade, co-chair of the Housing Action Coalition Public Awareness Committee and board member of the Utah Tech Alumni Association. She is also the only female to serve on the Charity Caddy Group, LLC nonprofit organization.

Fred Bernhardt has had diverse experiences in financial services for more than 35 years, helping clients achieve their financial goals. He has also been active in business development. In addition, he is a freelance sports writer and columnist.

Photo by Alisha Shaw

IT’S

TURN my

KRISTEN CLARKE DISCUSSES "THE ESSENTIALS" IN HER LAW SCHOOL JOURNEY

ARTICLE BY KRISTEN CLARKE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHER SWAN

When people meet me for the first time and realize I’m going to law school as a mother of six, they ask how I do it. My honest response is “My husband is making it possible.” People then ask whether he works from home or part-time, or if he has a “chill” job.

To be clear, Eric Clarke has a high-stress, high-impact and demanding job. He is the elected county attorney here in Washington County. His responsibilities are wide and varied and they come with high stakes attached.

Kristen Clarke

There are days when I feel a tad guilty knowing he’s at home making dinner for the family while I’m driving home from school—even though he has a meeting with the governor the next day. Or days when I have a major assignment due, even while he needs to be preparing for a nationally televised hearing.

There’s a Catch-22: I put him there! I put him in this place where his time is valuable to everyone else! I sacrificed my education and my career while we were younger so we could have our children and he could have a successful career that would support our family. I’m not saying that is always the right choice for every family, but with the resources and desires we had, it felt like the most logical choice. But now that it is finally my turn, my sacrifices and my support for him during all those years sometimes seem like they are working against me, because they helped him become successful, making his time important and valuable to people all around us.

If I were to calculate which of us could most easily sacrifice our individual career responsibilities, it would be me every time. We are merely at the “investment” stage of my career right now, but at the successful stage of my husband’s career. So many people need his time and skills. Further, my habit has been to sacrifice my interests and my time for his for so many years that it would be easy for me to fall right back into that pattern.

"It's amazing how feelings of frustration and catastrophes can dissipate when they're lovingly shared with one another."

How do we manage this? We’re still figuring it out, but here are a few of the essentials we have learned together: Number 1: Commit equally—My husband is as committed to supporting me in building a successful career now as I was to him before. If not for his encouragement, I never would have taken the first steps, and I certainly

Kristen and Eric Clarke with four of their six children

Kristen and Eric Clarke

would have been tempted to quit the first time it seemed like my schooling was putting strain on him and the family.

Number 2: Value yourself—I have to remember I have God-given talents and abilities, and He didn’t give them to me just to see them dwindle away and die. I’m good at what I’m doing, and I’m worth investing in.

Number 3: Invest—Remember that investments might not pay off now, but they do in the future.

Number 4: Communicate—With the complicated mix of demands, stresses and emotions this type of balancing entails, we need to have conversations where we explain how we are feeling and acknowledge and empathize with the way the other is feeling without becoming offended. It’s amazing how feelings of frustration and catastrophes can dissipate when they’re lovingly shared with one another. The answer still probably won’t be easy, but when we can find a way to agree on the same answer, we can manage almost anything.

Kristine Clarke studies at William S. Boyd School of Law at the University of Nevada in Las Vegas

SOARING THE PACIFIC IN World War II

DISTINGUISHED VETERAN AND CENTENARIAN, WALLY HUMPHREYS, RECOUNTS HIS EPIC STORY

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID CORDERO

Wally speaking to young citizens in Washington, D.C.

Submitted photo

With an enchanting azure sky above and the daunting and seemingly endless Pacific Ocean below, Wally Humphreys and the men aboard his B-25J contemplated their impending mission. On a spring day in 1945-in the midst of World War II-shortly after commencing their orders, the plane was targeted in a counter attempt, sustaining damage between the right engine nacelle and the fuselage.

“The right engine caught fire,” Wally recalled. “There were fumes in the cockpit, and sparks from the electrical system.”

He feathered the engine-one of four on the plane-and pulled on the external fire extinguisher. Then his navigator panicked, jettisoning the lower escape hatch into the ocean. “Had we had to ditch, water would have come up through that hatch,” Wally says. Fortunately, the worst was averted.

More than 80 years later, Wally celebrated his 100th birthday with friends and family in St. George. I met Wally when he was a young man of 91 during a Utah Honor Flight trip in 2015. In the intervening years, he related his amazing story of nearly three decades in the military. One that has always stayed with me was a close call he had piloting his B-25 in the Pacific.  Daunting? No doubt. But by that point in his life, he knew how to face hard times.

Wally being honored for his valor

During his career he

lated

accumu

-

22 medals, including the Distinguished Flying Cross...

One of nine children raised on a pioneer homestead farm in the tiny Cache Valley town of Paradise, Wally decided he had had enough of that hard-scrabble life. Frustrated with his family’s situation, he hopped on his bicycle, pedaled to Ogden and found work at Hill Field, renamed Hill Air Force Base on Feb. 5, 1948. He had the clothes on his back, a few dollars in his wallet and newfound inspiration for a brighter future. The planes that took off and landed each day mesmerized him.

He entered military service in 1943, and trained to become a pilot. A year later he was assigned to fly the B-25J in the South Pacific. Among his 35 missions in the Philippines, South China Sea, Okinawa and Japan, one mission in particular might have been the most hair-raising. Caught with a crew member, mid-flight, in a highly precarious position, a water landing with a missing hatch was absolutely out of the question. Keeping his bomber airborne was foremost on his mind. The alternative was certain demise.

These were the types of moments Wally referred to as “pucker time.” As they limped along in the sky, well behind the others in the squadron, suddenly there was hope. Hope was on the horizon; an airfield visible. On fumes, the plane landed amid a choking influx of dirt that shot up through the bomb bay. They survived. No one thought they would.

During WWII, similar situations played out across the Pacific and European Theaters. The recent Apple TV + miniseries “Masters of the Air” brought those experiences to life, conveying the perpetual anxiety, felt by bomber crews. As losses piled up, the men became fatalistic. Getting shot out of the air and succumbing—or getting captured and possibly tortured—seemed inevitable. Sadly, bomber crews grew accustomed to planes not returning, which seemed to be the case when Wally’s return was delayed.

“When I didn’t get back for four or five hours, they had my bed all straightened out for somebody else to sleep in,” he told me. “They had all my goods rationed out. I probably would have done the same thing if I found out one of my bunkmates wasn’t coming back. It didn’t bother you. You got used to it.”

Following WWII, Wally became a flight instructor during the Korean War. In the late 1960s, he flew the HH-53 B Super Jolly Green Giant in Rescue and Recovery in Vietnam. During his career, he accumulated 22 medals, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Bronze Star and 6 air medals. He retired as a Colonel after 28 years of service.

David Cordero serves as communications and marketing director at City of St. George.

(as

told to David Cordero)

DEAR YOU NGERME

Jennie Hendricks was raised in the Salt Lake area, the eldest of her siblings, and she embodied tenacity at a young age. By 14 she worked as a janitor, assuming the caretaker role for her siblings. As a consequence of her mother’s decisions, Jennie encountered familial upheaval, and at 16, Jennie found herself separated from her family. Despite her challenges, Jennie remained focused on her education, graduating from high school with a presidential scholarship to attend Weber State University in Ogden. She later relocated to Cedar City and envisioned a life centered around marriage and motherhood.

After 11 years and two children, turbulent times prompted Jennie to make a pivotal decision for herself and her children. Armed with nothing but her innate fortitude, she embarked on a journey of self-reliance. Starting anew in Cedar City, she ventured into real estate, eventually establishing her own Century 21 brokerage.

One woman’s advice on womanhood to her younger self

ARTICLE BY ASHER SWAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHER SWAN; PROVIDED

Jennie believes she would want to debunk for her younger self some of the biggest myths or misconceptions about being a woman.

“Women need a marketable skill set; you can’t just rely on your partner to provide,” Jennie states, emphasizing the importance of independence and self-sufficiency.

She uncovers the misconception that women do not need skills, attributing her own success in real estate to her professional capabilities. Additionally, she challenges the notion that aging diminishes one’s worth. She advocates embracing every stage of life with confidence and self-assurance.

Jennie additionally shares the top three lessons she would include in a crash course on womanhood for her younger self: “Trust actions over words, cultivate self-reliance while seeking support from a trusted community, and channel adversity into personal growth.”

If Jennie were to give a TED talk on womanhood, she would include the idea that a woman should take her endeavors seriously, but not take herself too seriously. She would advocate for unity and support among women and emphasize the importance of empathy and collaboration in fostering a culture of mutual empowerment.

What message would Jennie convey to her future self?

“Keep going. You’re tough, and you’ve made it,” she declares.

“Thanks for getting us here; you did it! ‘You’re tenacious and it’s gonna get hard, and you’re gonna get through it.’”

Jennie then adds a poignant note: “P.S. We made it.”

Asher Swan is currently the Southern Utah University official photographer and the staff photographer for St. George City Lifestyle. Contact him at asherswanphoto@gmail.com.

Jennie's university graduation

events

THROUGH MAY 11TH

Hurricane Valley Theatrical Presents Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

92 S. 100 W., Hurricane | 7:00 PM

Hurricane City and Hurricane Theatrical present Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Shows are on Monday, Friday and Saturday evenings at 7 p.m. and Saturday matinees at 2 p.m. Special preview night is Thursday, April 4, at 7 p.m. Visit hurricanetheatrical.com for tickets.

THROUGH MAY 29TH

Gearhead Group Art Show & Fundraiser

Art Provides, 35 N. Main St., St. George | 5:00 PM

Prepare to immerse yourself in a world where vintage charm collides with contemporary creativity at the Gearhead Art Exhibit. Over 20 talented artists will showcase their work, exploring the intersection of classic cars, machinery, planes, locomotives and the exhilarating art of racing. Visit artprovides.org

MAY 3RD-OCTOBER 19TH

Tuacahn Center for the Arts—Broadway Season

Tuacahn Center for the Arts, 1100 Tuacahn Dr., Ivins | 8:30 PM

Enchantment awaits in Tuacahn’s 2024 Broadway Season! Tuacahn’s lineup includes Frozen, Anastasia, Jersey Boys, Ring of Fire and A Christmas Carol. Broadway season packages may be purchased online. For performance dates and times, visit tuacahn.org

MAY 3RD

Southwest Symphony: Aretha, a Tribute

Desert Hills High School, 828 Desert Hills Dr., St. George | 7:30 PM

Experience the soulful sounds of the Southwest Symphony as it pays tribute to the legendary Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. Joining the symphony for this special event are acclaimed vocalists, Capthia Jenkins and Ryan Shaw, who will deliver powerhouse performances of Franklin's greatest hits. Visit swsutah.org.

MAY 3RD

Cinco De Mayo Celebration: Spring Fiesta and Slow Roll 2024

Downtown Cedar City | 5:00 PM

Cedar City will join numerous communities in the country to use community bike rides as an inclusive way to get out and exercise while reconnecting with neighbors. This year's theme will celebrate with a Cinco De Mayo Spring Fiesta! Free event.

MAY 4TH

IRONMAN 70.3 North American Championship

St. George Town Square, 50 S. Main St., St. George | 6:00 AM

Intermountain Health IRONMAN North American Championship St. George is an iconic race where athletes from all over the world come to prove themselves against this legendary course. In a land sculpted by persistence and determination, athletes looking for an epic challenge will navigate a path through two iconic state parks, basalt lava fields, and a fragile desert reserve. Visit ironman.com.

FINE

events

MAY 9TH-JUNE 15TH

St. George Musical

Theater Presents Funny Girl

St. George Musical Theater, 212 N. Main St., St. George | 7:30 PM

Funny Girl tells the story of Fanny Brice, a young, talented performer with dreams of making it big in show business. Funny Girl showcases the indomitable spirit of its lead character. For tickets, go to SGMTTickets@ gmail.com or tel. 435.628.8755.

MAY 10TH-11TH

Colorado City Music Festival 2024

Maxwell Park, 1750 Maxwell Pkwy., Hildale | 2:00 PM

Join the two-day Colorado City Music Festival outdoors under the towering vermillion cliffs of Maxwell Canyon Park. Showtimes are May 10 beginning at 2 p.m. and May 11 at 11 a.m. Tickets are only available online at coloradocitymusicfestival.com or eventbrite.com.  Call 208.283.9074 for more information.

MAY 10TH

BROCHURES

Coyote Tales: True Stories

Told Live

Center for the Arts at Kayenta, 881 Coyote Gulch Ct., Ivins | 7:30 PM

Coyote Tales is a live, open-mic style storytelling event with amateur and experienced storytellers. The theme for this event is GIFT. Prospective storytellers may address this theme in any way they choose. Sign up to get onstage and share your tale. Tickets are $20. Contact Victoria at coyotetalesstories.com

MAY 11TH

Southern Utah Museum of Art 29th Annual Art Auction

SUMA, 13 S. 300 W., Cedar City | 5:00 PM

Southern Utah Museum of Art 29th Annual Art Auction, Art in Bloom will be held at SUMA. Admission is $75. The casual event features live music by Jon Yerby, fine dining and a live auction featuring works from celebrated regional artists. For information visit suu.edu/suma or call 435.865.8564.

MAY 25TH

Soiree Musicale with Jason Bonham

Center for the Arts at Kayenta, 881

Coyote Gulch Ct., Ivins | 7:30 PM

Soiree Musicale features top professional musicians from across the western region, tackling some of the most advanced and inspiring instrumental music in the repertoire. Musicians are DeAnn Letoureau (violin); Urs Rutishauser (violin); Jason Bonham (viola); and Andrew Smith (cello). The concert features instrumental music including pop, jazz and more, from the Beatles, Queen, Chick Corea, Batman and more. Visit kayentaarts.org

MAY 28TH

Voyager Lecture Series

Center for the Arts at Kayenta, 881

Coyote Gulch Ct., Ivins | 7:30 PM

Thanks to the long-term funding of the Max Planck Society in Germany, Ian T. Baldwin and his students have developed a fire-chasing native tobacco plant,  Nicotiana attenuata, which grows in Kayenta's botanical neighborhood. Visit kayentaarts.com.

Strawberry Crepes for Mother's Day

• 2 cups frozen sliced, thawed strawberries

• 3 tbsp sugar

• 3 cups fresh strawberries

• 1/2 tsp orange zest (optional)

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 cups milk

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla

• 1/2 t salt

• 1 1/5 c all purpose flour

Gently puree the thawed strawberries, stir in sugar, orange zest and fresh sliced strawberries.

Heat milk and butter in a glass bowl in the microwave, just until the butter melts. Add eggs, vanilla sugar and salt along with the warmed milk to a blender, cover and blend until smooth. Add flour and blend until smooth.

Heat an 8" skillet or crepe pan over medium heat and lightly coat with cooking spray or butter. Pour 1/4 c batter into the center of the skillet and immediately rotate the pan until the batter cover the bottom of the skillet in a thin layer. Cook until light brown, about 1 minute each, then flip and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Stack crepes on a plate, or place in the oven at 200 degrees to keep warm.

Fill crepes with strawberry filling and roll up. Top with sliced fresh strawberries, powdered sugar, and a drizzle of melted chocolate and serve. Add whipped cream, other berries and bananas as desired.

eat kind

EMBRACING A PARTNERSHIP WITH YOUR BODY

Wellness isn’t about restricting — it’s really about giving. Giving to yourself and to your body in a way that allows them both to thrive. The cool part? The things that give to your body naturally give to your mind, your hormones, your earth, your relationships, and so on — it’s all beautifully interconnected in that way.

Eat your greens, cook at home, choose local produce and quality meats, don’t be scared of healthy fats — but also support local farmers, move in a way that makes your body and mind feel good, prioritize times of mindfulness and stillness.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 6 oz. filets of wild caught salmon

• 1 Tbsp. avocado oil

• 1 Tbsp. coconut aminos

• Zest and juice from one lemon

• 1 Tbsp. stone ground mustard

• 1 4 oz. container coconut yogurt, unsweetened

• 2 Tbsp. fresh dill, minced

• 2 Tbsp. capers, drained and minced

• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

DIRECTIONS:

1. Marinate the salmon in the lemon juice, coconut aminos, and stone ground mustard for up to two hours.

2. Drizzle salmon with avocado oil, sprinkle with salt and ground pepper, and broil on high for five to seven minutes, until cooked to desired temperature.

3. Mix coconut cream, lemon zest, dill, capers, and ground pepper together.

4. Top salmon with coconut cream, serve with roasted or sautéed veggies, brown or cauliflower rice, or fresh greens. Enjoy!

simple roasted salmon with dill coconut cream