




When I was no more than seven, I told my father my dream was to travel every road in the world! He acknowledged my seriousness, yet didn't say it was impossible. He understood how much I relished travelling to new places and exploring new things. Of course, I knew in reality my dream was simply that—a dream!
Although I have not traveled on every road in the world, I have traveled to many places with my late husband, my children, my family and even sometimes alone. I've come to realize that exploring doesn't necessitate traveling. I can explore right here in southern Utah.
Whilst I love to discover new trails and hikes, and new roads to get to new places, I have become content where I am. My adventures need not be exotic holidays, but may involve exploring a book I've wanted to read or a book I want to revisit. Perhaps it is attending a symphony concert or a musical at Tuacahn Amphitheatre or other musical production. Sometimes I enjoy finding new roads on which to drive to see where they take me; sometimes I just want to see the progress of a new business development or drive to a scenic lookout and behold the valley below. I believe visiting friends falls into the exploration category as well.
My hope is that this issue inspires us to make room for exploration and to prioritize time away from the regular schedule of life. Truly adventures await!
Happy exploring!
JJ ABERNATHY, EDITOR @STGEORGECITYLIFESTYLE
July 2025
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 | asherswanphoto@gmail.com
PHOTO EDITOR
Lori Hansen
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Holly Infante | holly.infante@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
JJ Abernathy, David Cordero, Bailey Hall, Marianne Hamilton, Asher Swan, Tammy Threlfall
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
JJ Abernathy, Mark Abernathy, Matthew Abernathy, David Cordero, TJ Meagher, Asher Swan. Tammy Threlfall
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Marianne Hamilton and David Cordero at the unveiling of the mural by Pepe Gaka 2: Cameron Gunter, Pepe Gaka, Ali Monsen, Lucas Darger, Alyce Gardner at "Sounds of St. George" 3: Alyce Gardner, Shawn Guzman, Jimmie Hughes and Joie Whittaker at the St. George mural unveiling 4: Shauna and Tom Challis at the "Sounds of St. George" unveiling 5: Giada Valenti preparing for Southwest Symphony concert, From Venice with Love 6: Giada Valenti with Southwest Symphony Conductor and Musical Director, Lucas Darger 7: Southwest Symphony Maestro, Lucas Darger, with Giada Valenti at final concert of the season
A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
According to Jim Clark, FSA, and president of southern Utah Seniors Helping Seniors®, the mission of the organization is to provide in-home care services to seniors with the ability to choose an independent lifestyle in their own homes with the dignity and respect they deserve. They do this by matching seniors with loving, caring and compassionate active mature caregivers to provide their needed service. Visit seniorshelpingseniors.com/ut/st-george/care-services for more information. You may also email info@southernutahshs.com or call 435.900.2465.
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Tuacahn Center for the Arts brings Broadway in the Desert® to southern Utah! This year's line-up runs through Oct. 25, with "The Wizard of Oz," Disney's "The Little Mermaid" and Disney's "Newsies the Musical." In addition, as part of the season, "Elf the Musical" runs from Nov. 21 to Dec. 20, and "Million Dollar Quartet" will play Jan. 30 to Mar. 7, 2026. Visit tuacahn.org to confirm dates and times for all events.
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Executive Director, Miranda Wright, of Center for the Performing Arts at Kayenta recently announced its lineup for the 2025-2026 season. According to Miranda, the center will bring world-class artists and performances to its intimate venue in Ivins. Its newest season features award-winning artists along with local talent at the base of the Red Mountain. An eclectic mix of new theater, dance, music and lectures will be available. Visit kayentaarts.org for information.
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Photography by JJ Abernathy
With decades of experience across diverse markets in the U.S. and Canada, PEG is a leading real estate investor, developer and operator recognized for its distinct ability to create lasting value and meaningful community impact. The new public mural in downtown St. George between The Advenire and City View St. George Apartments confirms PEG's ongoing commitment to placemaking with "The Sounds of St. George" by artist, Pepe Gaka, in tribute to the Southwest Symphony.
I met Marc Mortensen on a warm morning in St. George, Utah—red rock in the distance, and a bike trail close by. Most people know Marc as the guy on the bike. But that’s just a fraction of the man.
Marc is the Director of Operations for the City of St. George, overseeing everything from facilities and tech infrastructure to large-scale public projects. But talk to him for more than a minute, and it’s clear: he’s not just running systems—he’s helping shape a city.
His journey into public service wasn’t exactly planned. Back in 1998, he arrived in St. George with his life packed into a pickup and dreams of being a television anchor. Then a public relations job listing changed everything.
“I didn’t know a soul here,” he tells me, “but I applied, got the job and never left.” He came for the job—but stayed for the lifestyle.
And that lifestyle is central to who he is. A former snowboarder, Marc traded in his season pass at Park City for paved trails and desert dirt. Running, riding, hiking—it’s not just fitness for him—it’s a way of grounding himself in a fast-moving world.
That perspective shows up in his work. Marc has helped shape some of St. George’s most impactful developments—Town Square, the St. George Boulevard reconstruction and the city’s long-running relationship with Ironman. He’s both raced in and managed the event.
“Working with our local teams on Ironman has been one of the highlights of my career,” he says. His pride isn’t about ego but about collaboration, community, and legacy.
Right now, Marc is project manager for the new City Hall, a multi-use government space that’s designed as much for gathering as it is for operations.
“We’re doing things that, to my knowledge, haven’t been done in any city hall in the country,” he explains. There’s excitement in his voice, but it’s the kind that comes from stewardship—not flash.
His life as an athlete feeds his vision for the city. In 2017, he led the creation of St. George’s first Active Transportation Plan, helping connect a nearly 100-mile trail system to the people who live and move through it. That mindset also helped shape the city’s first bike park—an idea Marc pitched that’s now expanded into multiple parks.
“St. George was known for running and golf,” he said. “Now it’s a mountain biking town too.”
He’s not just building for the weekend rider. As past president of the Southern Utah Bicycle Alliance, Marc has focused on transportation equity—ensuring people can bike to work, to appointments or to dinner, safely and efficiently.
“If you build it, they will come,” he said. And in St. George, they have.
When I asked about his favorite biking memory, he didn’t mention a race or a vista. He described silence.
“Sometimes I’m the only person for miles. I stop, hear my own breathing, look around. Those moments—they give me goosebumps.”
You could tell it wasn’t about escape—it was about presence.
Before we wrapped up, I asked what advice he’d give to those looking to get involved in their city. He didn’t hesitate.
“Speak up. Show up. Most of our best ideas started with someone in the community. Local government is where the rubber meets the road—and where you can see the difference you make.”
As we talked about the future of St. George—its tech growth, evolving downtown, and increasing diversity— Marc’s optimism was grounded.
“We’ve got a get-it-done attitude here,” he says. “That’s why I’m still excited after all these years.”
After spending time with him, it’s clear: Marc doesn’t just help run St. George—he helps define it.
Bob Palomaris’ life, like that of so many military veterans, was marked not only by moments of profound courage, but also by quiet, personal sacrifice. A longtime Central resident until his passing in 2015, Bob stood on the cusp of a professional baseball career when history took a sharp turn. World War II came calling— and Bob answered. By the time he returned home, his shot at the majors had slipped away.
That’s the reality for so many who wear the uniform: opportunities foregone in the name of something greater.
On his 17th birthday, with his mother’s blessing, Bob enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He soon found himself aboard the USS North Carolina , manning a 20-millimeter bow gun on one of the fastest, most formidable battleships of the war. Nicknamed “The Showboat,” the North Carolina earned its reputation—and 15 battle stars—by showing up where the action was hottest.
Enemy aircraft, lurking submarines and the vast, hostile Pacific were constant threats. In April 1945, off the coast of Okinawa, Bob recounted a near-death experience. Kamikaze planes swarmed, and amidst the chaos, a friendly round from
ARTICLE BY DAVID CORDERO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID CORDERO, BOB PALOMARIS, PROVIDED
a nearby U.S. ship misfired. It struck the North Carolina , mortally wounding three of Bob’s shipmates. Bob, sprinting to his battle station, caught metal fragments that left him with minor wounds.
A few seconds’ hesitation, and he could have been number four.
Later, Bob manned his post as a Japanese dive bomber broke through the clouds, bearing down on the ship. At 1,900 yards, the gunners opened up, red tracers desperately reaching for enemy metal. Still, the bomber kept coming. At 400 yards—just moments from impact—it burst mid-air. The crew erupted in the type of adrenaline and relief-fueled celebration that comes from surviving what felt like certain death.
“We jumped up and down like we’d scored a touchdown,” Bob told me once. “We tried to light cigarettes, but our hands were shaking too much. It’s only afterward that the fear hits you.”
Though he never returned to competitive baseball, Bob carved out a rich, meaningful life. He created stunning stained-glass windows, raised champion racehorses and made fast friends wherever he went.
I consider myself lucky to have been one of them. We talked endlessly—about baseball, about history—and carried on a written correspondence that would’ve made the pre-internet generation proud. Though he was 52 years my senior, our friendship never felt like one between a grandfather and grandson. We were pals. His death at age 89, though expected, hit me hard. Still does.
The courage, grit and loyalty Bob displayed aboard the North Carolina never left him. He was proud of his service—and I bet he was proud of the way his generation stepped up to help save the free world from the grips of tyranny. Bob understood what was at stake: a war to win, and a freedom too precious to lose.
David Cordero, communications and marketing director at City of St. George, has lived in St. George since 2006. He has won several awards for his writing on a variety of subjects, including sports, the military community and education.
Take a stroll through downtown St. George, and one thing is immediately obvious: Color is everywhere, courtesy of several new, large-scale murals. An extravagant palette has transformed a parking structure between the Advenire Hotel and the City View apartment complex. In celebration of the City Pool’s 50th anniversary, once-barren walls now boast tropical scenes. The new City Hall building will soon be adorned with a massive installation, comprising 1,000 porcelain tiles, each painted by local residents.
Add in the selfie-ready frescoes at Station 2 Bar by Zion Brewery, Homeside Mortgage, Electric Theater Complex, St. George Art Museum, Judd’s Store, Stapley Pharmacy, The Larkin Group and more, and it’s clear that an exciting trend has taken hold in the center of the city.
“When we created the first mural to celebrate the Art Museum’s 30th anniversary, there was some hesitation—we didn’t know if it would be embraced or seen as an eyesore,” recalls Assistant Director of Parks and Community Services, Michelle Graves. “I remember saying, ‘If you build it, they will come; the community will love this.’ And luckily that is exactly what happened. Now, so many business owners are contributing to the beautification of St. George with incredible murals.”
One of the most dramatic installations was completed at the end of May, when PEG Properties unveiled a towering, vibrant vision of Southern Utah’s picturesque plant life, with a special nod to the Southwest Symphony Orchestra. PEG partnered with the City of St. George, underwriting the costs of the installation and overseeing the artist selection process, while the City provided in-kind services and equipment. Covering two sides of the parking structure shared by the Advenire and City View, the visual was crafted by internationally renowned muralist/street artist Pepe Gaka.
“Pepe was selected from a pool of talented artists after reviewing his plan for a mural for the City View parking garage, his price point and his extensive experience creating large murals worldwide,” explains St. George City Councilmember, Dannielle Larkin. “We loved the concept of native flora, combined with images of musical artists from the Symphony. Mural art is accessible to every resident and visitor. It engages the eye and the imagination of all who visit our beautiful downtown.”
Adds Community Arts Manager, Peyton Lee, “We’re so excited that this integration of the public and private sector resulted in such a gorgeous mural that has transformed our downtown.”
Speaking of the public sector—when the City Hall mural makes its debut this fall, it will stand as a testament to what’s possible when citizens heed a call to action. Back in February, local residents began picking up paintbrushes at “Paint Night” sessions at the Social Hall and other venues, creating mini renderings of what they love most about life in St. George. All 1,000 tiles have since been transformed and are being assembled into an expansive work of art to be installed above the entrance to the new Council Chambers.
Says Peyton, “The very best thing was seeing the community come together. So many people said they wanted to take part in this project and leave their mark.”
Over at the City Pool, local artist Tiffany Dewitt deftly captured the “Summer Vibes” that St. George enjoys practically year-round. In honor of the facility’s golden anniversary, Dewitt—a 2017 Utah Tech graduate—incorporated exotic flowers, palm leaves and other summertime symbols.
“Tiffany presented three lovely concepts, and we went with this one, which is bright and fresh,” Michelle says. We’re so excited that St. George will have yet another wonderful mural for our residents to enjoy.”
BY TAMMY THRELFALL
Digby’s Market brings flair and a personal touch like no other
Created by two people with a passion for local flair, a knack for business, and a desire to help the community—Digby’s Market opened its doors in April 2023—bringing a whole new vibe to the retail grocery scene. Among their hallmarks are the elevation of local businesses combined with an un-matched personal touch to create a satisfying shopping experience. People often say they like to support local or small businesses but then shop at a big box store for convenience (guilty
as charged). Alternatively, with several hundred local products on the shelves, Digby’s offers consumers the chance to shop at a full-size grocery store while still shopping local. This customer-centric and locally focused business model has helped Digby’s become a local hotspot, not only for its inviting environment, but also for the local relationships they are establishing to help small businesses become a bigger deal.
Curiously, their “shop local” focus evolved somewhat serendipitously. In 2022, following the official groundbreaking for their store, and while visiting a gas station in Veyo, Tim Rigby and Gregory Daines came across Mimi’s Candies. Her caramels were delicious, and they thought: “Why not bring local vendors into our future grocery store.” They soon struck a deal, and Mimi’s Candy became Digby’s first local partnership.
Not long after discovering Mimi’s Candies, the Digby duo’s doorbell rang. Standing on the doorstep was a 14-year-old girl raising money for college
by selling cookies door-to-door. The cookies were amazing. As things unfolded, Kassidy’s Kookies became the second local partnership, and their delightful products have remained on the shelves since day one of the grand opening.
“We’ve really enjoyed watching the growth that’s taken place from these two partnerships,” Tim shares.
Digby’s marking now features hundreds of local products, showcased weekly through what Tim and Gregory call a “local’s market,” which takes place every Tuesday from 4 to 7 p.m.
“It’s basically an indoor farmers market, where shoppers get to enjoy free samples from each vendor, with the option to purchase their items,” Tim explains. “It’s been a huge success to not only our vendors, but our shoppers that really look forward to it as well.”
Digby’s Market is becoming a significant reason why many local vendors are becoming
more well-known through easier to access to their products. Need a local coffee blend, homemade popcorn, local honey or an ice cream cone? Digby’s has you covered with several local options from which to choose.
The Digby’s experience spans beyond their storefront. At digbysmarket.com you can find recipes, a produce glossary and information about their brand products. Shoppers can also connect with Digby’s
Market on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. In the community, you will also find Digby’s Market giving back through sponsorship of car shows and other events to raise money for local charities and community programs.
Visit their storefront at 1955 N. Snow Canyon Pkwy. in St. George. They are open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
To reach Digby’s by phone, call 435.310.5810.
Tim Rigby and Gregory Daines shared an aspiration of starting their own grocery business, which became a reality just two years ago with the opening of their landmark store on Snow Canyon Parkway. The entrepreneurial team combined their last names to form Digby’s Market, and together, they created a unique spin on the everyday grocery store experience.
TANTALIZING OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES ANY TIME OF YEAR
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JJ ABERNATHY
According to the St. George Area Guide published by the St. George Area Chamber of Commerce, myriad opportunities for exploring await the outdoor enthusiast. If it’s hiking trails you’re seeking, pick up The Trail Users Guide published by the City of St. George.
St. George and Washington County have places to cool off during the hot summer months. Try Sand Hollow, Quail Creek and Gunlock Reservoirs for paddle boarding, kayaking, swimming, jet skiing, canoeing and boating—and even fishing. Other popular destinations to cool off include the St. George City Pool and the Sand Hollow Aquatic Center.
Wherever you go and whatever you do, make sure you carry plenty of water. It’s easy to become dehydrated.
Here are 20 outdoor activities not to miss when you’re out and about exploring in southern Utah:
1. Hike in Zion National Park
2. Hike the numerous trails at Snow Canyon State Park
3. Hike Dixie Rock at Pioneer Park
4. Paddle board at Quail Creek or Sand Hollow Reservoir
5. Rent an E-bike and explore the trail system
6. Rent an ATV and hit some of the off-road trails
7. Take in a show at Tuacahn Amphitheatre
8. Cool off at Red Cliffs Recreation Area
9. Organize a round of golf
10. Hang out at Town Square Park
11. Tour Red Hills Garden
12. Go for a scenic drive through Kolob Canyon
13. Hike the Water Canyon Trail
14. Head to Gunlock Falls at Gunlock State Park (seasonal)
15. Visit Judd’s Store near Town Square
16. Ride the train at Thunder Junction All Abilities Park
17. See Glitter Mountain geological site and find your own opaque stone to keep
18. Explore the colorful cliffs of Yant Flat (Candy Cliffs)
19. Enjoy a peaceful ride in a hot air balloon
20. Explore the shops at Kayenta Art Village in Ivins
VARIOUS DATES IN JULY
St. George Artie in the Park
10:00 AM
The St. George Arts Museum is proud to bring another summer of Artie in the Park with Artie the Art Bus. He will be joined by The Pips every day. Together they will visit 17 parks during July, bringing free art lessons and projects to the community. Visit sgcityutah.gov for more information.
EVERY SATURDAY YEAR-ROUND
Downtown Farmers Market
Vernon Worthen Park, 300 S. 400 E., St. George | 10:00 AM
Experience the live music and local shopping in the picturesque downtown Vernon Worthen Park. Enjoy local food and goods while sitting in the shade on green grass, jamming to local tunes. This is truly an event for the entire family! Visit downtownfarmerstg.com
EVERY SATURDAY
Tuacahn Saturday Market
Tuacahn Amphitheatre, 1100 Tuacahn Dr., Ivins
The Tuacahn Saturday Market is one more way to experience the magic of Tuacahn. Our outdoor market features local artwork, crafts, food and free entertainment. You’ll find something new and different every Saturday morning. Admission and live entertainment are free. The Tuacahn Gift Shop and the Tuacahn Cafe are always open at this time. Visit tuacahn.org
SATURDAYS
St. George Sunrise Market
Hela Seegmiller Historic Farm, 2592 S. 3000 E., St. George | 10:00 AM
Come and enjoy the St. George Sunrise Market! You will love the positive vibe and energy in the air, mixed with some of the best artisans and entrepreneurs. Experience fun music with line dancing, and fill yourselves with freshly baked goods, handmade food and fresh produce from local farmers. Tel 435.627.4530 or visit sunrisefarmersmarket.com
EVERY THURSDAY - SUNDAY IN JULY
Cinesizzle Film Series at Center for the Arts
Center for the Arts at Kayenta, 881 Coyote Gulch Ct., Ivins | 7:30 PM
Escape the sizzling summer heat in July and join us for a curated film series featuring some of the most compelling independent films, staff picks! Visit kayentaarts.org/cinesizzle
THROUGH OCTOBER 4TH
Utah Shakespeare Festival
Beverley Taylor Sorenson Center for the Arts, 195 W. Center St., Cedar City | 8:00 PM
Utah Shakespeare Festival offers matinee performances at 2 p.m. and evening performances at 8 p.m. in three grand theaters. The festival also offers the free nightly Green Show at 7 p.m., backstage tours, play and production seminars, Repertory Magic and play orientations. For tickets and information call 800-PLAYTIX (800.752.9849) or visit bard.org
THROUGH JULY 5TH
“Bonnie and Clyde” at the PAC
The Performing Arts Center, 905 S. Main St., St. George | 7:00 PM
At the height of the Great Depression, Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow went from two small-town nobodies in West Texas to America’s most notorious folk heroes and Texas law enforcement’s worst nightmares. May not be appropriate for audiences under the age of 14. Tickets: atthepac.org/tickets.
JULY 4TH
4th of July Celebration at Utah Tech
Greater Zion Stadium, Utah Tech University, St. George | 6:30 PM
Brett Young is coming to Greater Zion Stadium for the 4th of July! Here’s the timeline of events: 6:30 p.m. - Gates Open, 7 p.m. - Welcome, 7:25 p.m. - Recognition of Veterans, 7:55 p.m. - National Anthem and Flag Unfurling, 8 p.m. - Brett Young, 10 p.m. - Fireworks provided by City of St. George. For tickets, visit utahtech.evenue.net
JULY 4TH
Cedar City Lions’s Club Independence Day Parade and Festival
Main Street Park, 200 N. Main St., Cedar City | 9:00 AM
Cedar City Lion’s Club Independence Day Parade & Festival begins at 9 a.m. with the Fourth of July Patriotic Parade, followed by activities in the Main Street Park from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Cedar City Fireworks display will take place around 10 p.m. at the Cedar City Airport. For information call Mark Nelson at 435.463.5501 or visit cedarlionsclub.com
JULY 7TH - 24TH
St. George Art Museum Summer Art Camps
St. George Art Museum, 47 E. 200 N., St. George | 10:00 AM
Join one of these exciting art camps this summer: July 7-10: Mixed Media Camp, July 15-17: Printmaking Camp, July 21-24: Nature Art Camp For information, visit sgcity.org/artmuseum or telephone 435.627.4525.
JULY 12TH - OCTOBER 4TH
“Newsies” at Tuacahn
Tuacahn Center for the Arts
Set in New York at the turn of the 20th century and inspired by a true story, “Newsies” is the tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy and leader of a band of teenaged “newsies.” When titans of publishing raise distribution prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack rallies newsies from across the city to fight for what’s right! Tickets: Tuacahn.org
JULY 14TH
Concert in the Park with Eric Dodge
Vernon Worthen Park, 300 S. 400 E., St. George | 7:30 PM
The Concert in the Park Series is a celebration of wonderful music,an open park and family celebration. Don’t miss this second Monday each month through September. The concert is free. Bring lawn chairs, blankets and food for the family. Visit sgcityutah.gov for information.
JULY 18TH-20TH
Best Western Plus, Settlers Point, 1294 E. Hospitality Way, Washington | 12:00 PM
Get ready for a weekend filled with creativity, laughter and endless memories. Whether you’re a scrapbooking pro or just getting started, this retreat is all about good vibes, great friends and capturing life’s best moments. Spots are limited, so reserve yours now before they’re gone. For more information email SB@Factory921Studios.com.
JULY 24TH - AUGUST 30TH
St. George Musical Theater Presents “Grease”
Historic Opera House, 212 N. Main St., St. George | 7:00 PM
A musical set in the 1950s that follows the lives of teenagers at Rydell High School. The story centers on the summer romance and captures the spirit of the era with its rock ‘n’ roll soundtrack and themes of friendship, love and rebellion. Tickets: sgmusicaltheater.com/tickets Want