St George, UT June 2024

Celebrating the men and fathers in our lives!

Fathers make countless differences in their homes, families and communities.

As I have reflected on fatherhood this month, my thoughts have turned to my father who has been deceased many years. Yet, I often reflect on his influence in my life—his example of teaching me the value of hard work, teaching me how to drive a tractor—and later his pickup, rescuing me from a fall on my first solo bicycle ride before I learned how to apply brakes, kneeling in prayer around the old oak table, hunting for Christmas trees in Idaho’s snowy mountains, teaching me to ballroom dance. So many memories! I also think of his teaching me about the power of music and song as he and my mother made music together around the piano in our home. His gift of quality time, life-giving words and positive actions have had a long-lasting impact on me.

Recently, I attended a T.C. Christensen film entitled, “Escape from Germany,” a true story chronicling the evacuation of young American missionaries from Germany in the days leading up to World War II. I’ve seen the movie twice. It wasn’t until I viewed the movie the second time that it hit me that my father was in The Netherlands where many were being evacuated. My father was the age of the people depicted on the screen, and he was being moved out of Europe and sent back to America, too! My own father was part of that time period, and I never realized what a dramatic scene that must have been. I was awestruck! Why, when my father was alive, did I not have the presence of mind to ask him about that time in his life? He never talked about the evacuation, except to say he was put on a ship and sent back to America. Oh, what I would give to talk with him. He had wanted to serve his country as his triplet brothers had, but his draft board advised he was too short; further, he was advised that his enterprises as a dairy farmer were crucial to his community. I am grateful for my father’s foundational strength and inspiration through the years.

I trust we will let our fathers or father figures in our lives know how much they matter to us and the communities in which we live—and let us listen to their stories.

Happy Father’s Day!

June 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 J. Swan | asherswanphoto@gmail.com

PHOTO EDITOR

Lori Hansen

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Holly Infante | holly.infante@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

JJ Abernathy, Marianne Hamilton, Holly Infante, Kami Egan Savage, Daniel Schowengerdt, Sheena Steedman, Wendy Wilson Spooner

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

JJ Abernathy, Liliane Barker, Donna Conversano, Ilene Hacker, Azee Jacobs, Scott Moore, Brian Oar, Jenna Oxford, Sean Pavone, Kami Egan Savage, Darren Schmitt, Brien Sonzogni, Asher J. Swan

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

JJ ABERNATHY, EDITOR @STGEORGECITYLIFESTYLE

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN JUNE

city scene

1: Santa Clara Mayor Rick Rosenberg presents "Santa Clara State of the City" to the community 2: Brad Buhanan, Traci Fitzgerald, Colette Cox, Katarina Aikens and Danielle Edgren at Element Awards Luncheon. 3: Maureen Booth at the Doc Booth Fundraiser Dinner and Auction at the Dixie Center 4: The family of Maureen Booth and the late Dr. Craig Booth at the Dixie Center 5: Elizabeth Gunther (AKA EL) presents at the Creative Age Symposium at Utah Tech. 6: Wendi Bulkley receives the Distinguished Citizen Award at Utah Tech's Presidential Awards Banquet 7: Annie Simkins is awarded Utah Tech's Presidential Award for Community Engagement

Want to be seen in the magazine? TAG YOUR INSTAGRAM PHOTOS WITH @STGEORGECITYLIFESTYLE

LILIANE BARKER PROVIDED

ILENE HACKER

JJ ABERNATHY

ILENE HACKER

COURTESY OF WENDI BULKLEY

business monthly

David Gardner Wins ACTE Region V Administrator of the Year

Congratulations to Dave Gardner who won Applied Career Technology Education Region V Administrator of the Year. The ACTE mission is to create pathways for every secondary student by providing him or her with the technical skills and academic knowledge needed to prepare for future employment or a successful transition to post-secondary education. Says Dave, "I'm certainly grateful for the countless educational professionals along the way who contributed personally to make this award possible."

Huntsman World Senior Games

Early-bird discounts are available until Aug. 1 for those registering for the Huntsman World Senior Games. Individuals and teams, beginners and seasoned athletes alike may choose from more than 30 sports, ranging from triathlon to one-on-one basketball to power walking to social golf and more. Registration closes on Sept. 1; competitions run from Oct. 7 to 19. As usual, the Games will be packed with free community events. Visit seniorgames.net for full details.

Tech Ridge Development Honors STEM Educators

Tech Ridge Development recently sponsored the STEM Awards and celebrated the champions who are shaping the future of science, technology, engineering and math in our schools! According to Tech Ridge Development, incredible educators from across Iron and Washington counties continue to display a dedication that fuels our community's STEM pipeline, inspiring a new generation of innovators. Congratulations to the many amazing educators in southern Utah! Scan to read more

Photography Provided

Photography Provided

Photography by Tech Ridge Development

local experiences

OUR GO-TO LIST WILL HAVE YOU USHERING IN SUMMER IN ALL THE RIGHT WAYS

ARTICLE BY KAMI EGAN SAVAGE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Guys on the Town

Zion Balloons: Most mornings, hot air balloons rise over Washington; be the next passenger aboard these dramatic dirigibles. zionballoonscom

Paragon Adventure: Paragon Adventure has everything : ziplining, caving and canyoneering to rock climbing, rappelling and mountain biking. 514 N. Bluff St., Ste. 2. paragonadventure.com

MaVie Med Spa: Common concerns for men, such as acne scars, wrinkles and hair loss, are treated with its medical-grade skin care and state-of-the-art rejuvenation technologies. 1611 E. 2450 S., #2B. maviemedspa.com

Big Shots Golf : Get tee’d off at Big Shots Golf where you can perfect your swing. 1108 W. Black Mountain Dr. bigshotsgolf.com

George’s Corner Restaurant and Pub:  George’s has become a city staple with its rich history, delectable food options and live weekly music. 2 W. St. George Blvd. georgescornerrestaurant.com

THIS MONTH’S CURATOR

Kami Egan Savage

Kami Egan Savage is the former editor of Southern Utah University's  Journal newspaper and has earned Bachelor of Arts degrees in both English and Psychology. In addition to writing, she has edited professional manuscripts and has won awards in journalism, poetry and fiction. She lives in Washington, Utah, with her husband and three kids.

Choice Builders

How Roger Thomas is building dreams at Brian Head

Coming from St. George, Bill never imagined a heated driveway would be something he would ever own. But now, after his first winter in his Brian Head home, Bill says, “I can be on the slopes skiing all day without having to spend the weekend dealing with ice and snow on my steps.” Bill is so grateful he listened to his builder.

EMBODYING THE SPIRIT OF BRIAN HEAD

Roger Thomas, owner of Choice Builders, has a passion for the outdoors that fuels his commitment to creating exceptional homes on the mountain. Choice Builders creates special places that seamlessly integrate with Brian Head’s breathtaking setting and yearround adventures, offering a unique opportunity to connect with nature and create lasting memories.

INSPIRED BY LEGACY AND LANDSCAPE

Roger’s deep love for the natural world translates into a commitment to building extraordinary homes that respect and

complement the landscape. Brian Head, with its stunning panoramas, epic hiking and biking trails and world-class skiing with an annual snowfall exceeding 226 inches, provides the perfect canvas for Choice Builders homes. There, at a base elevation of 9,600 feet, you are truly on top of the world.

BUILDING PLACES FOR CONNECTION

Choice Builders reflects a constant commitment to excellence. They create mindfully crafted homes with exceptional value, upholding the tenets instilled by Roger’s grandfather and the cowboy culture: “Do what you say and say what you do.” Through honest communication, transparency and their commitment to unwavering craftsmanship, Choice Builders helps clients create havens where friends and family can gather to make lasting memories. Imagine: ski-inski-out access, breathtaking vistas and pristine forests surrounding your custom-designed gathering space.

Building beautiful things is rewarding, but building for great people is truly special. “

Photo by Asher J. Swan

Photo by Asher J. Swan

“You know what I love?” says Sarah, a recent Choice Builders client. “Skiing into our new place after a day on the mountain, coming inside and putting on a fire, even my teenagers stick around to share stories of their runs. Choice Builders built the perfect Brian Head escape for us.”

Says Roger, “Building beautiful things is rewarding, but building for great people is truly special.”

COLLABORATION IS KEY

Roger’s 35-year success hinges on clear communication and teamwork. Designers, engineers, builders and clients collaborate seamlessly to create dream homes that blend form and function. Sustainability, efficiency and aesthetics are paramount in every home they build. A unique online portal allows clients to monitor progress, view real-time budgets and see daily photos of their build.

A VISIONARY APPROACH

Roger, a visionary leader, learned of Brian Head’s expansion plans and recognized the potential to deliver something special for clients seeking a mountain home. Inspired by Simon Sinek, Roger has discovered his “Why,” which is to serve his clients. He fosters a learning environment where high-performance homes are built using modern techniques and science-backed methods. This expertise is evident in every Choice Builders home.

INTEGRITY AT THE CORE

Roger’s dedication extends beyond construction. He served in the United States Navy and Air Force Reserves for 26 years, where he developed a wealth of leadership experience. His construction career began in residential and commercial building, culminating in a senior leadership role— and ultimately founding Choice Builders. Civic service has also been a constant throughout his journey, reflecting his commitment to integrity and giving back.

Roger’s lifelong dedication to ethical practices aligns perfectly with his passion for the environment. Once aspiring to be a forester, he now fulfills that desire by helping others put down roots in Brian Head. Every Choice Builders creation reflects their client’s vision of a perfect home as well as the magnificence of Brian Head.

ARTICLE BY MARIANNE HAMILTON | PHOTOGRAPHY AND RENDERINGS

PROVIDED BY BLACK DESERT RESORT, BRIAN OAR AND BRIEN SONZOGNI

Impact Making an

BLACK DESERT RESORT DEVELOPER PATRICK MANNING GIVES BACK TO COMMUNITY, STATE

Photo by Brian Oar

When international golf fans tune in to watch the PGA TOUR’s 2024 FedExCup Fall tournament, the breathtaking views offered at Black Desert Resort— where the contest will be held—are sure to make an impact. Behind the scenes, Black Desert Managing Partner Patrick Manning is quietly having a similar effect on the Washington County community and the state of Utah.

Most locals know that Black Desert is home to a spectacular, 19-hole golf course, nestled amidst dramatic lava beds abutting the crimson cliffs of Ivins. Designed by World Golf Hall of Famer Tom Weiskopf—the last he conceived of before passing away—the course offers those lucky enough to snag a tee-time the type of golfing experience typically reserved for pros.

In addition, Black Desert boasts upscale lodging, a luxurious spa, high-end dining as well as casual culinary options, and conference and meeting spaces equipped with the latest technology. Add in plans for a nature center, water park, concert venue-cum-sports arena, a bustling boardwalk featuring retail and dining destinations, miles of hiking trails and more, and it’s easy to understand why Governor Spencer Cox dubbed Black Desert “Utah’s resort.”

Even as Patrick oversees the eight-year construction project on the 600-acre site, with its estimated multi-billion-dollar price tag, he remains committed to giving back to the community that has enabled him to achieve his vision. His philanthropic efforts include numerous local educational, athletic and arts program sponsorships. To wit, upon discovering that young female golfers in Washington County were struggling to afford coaching, Patrick directed his staff to contact parents throughout the school district with an unprecedented offer.

Patrick Manning

Photo by Brien Sonzogni

“We have several golf pros, and they all want to give back,” Patrick notes. “So, we’re offering free golf clinics to every student in the district. We’re hearing great feedback from parents, who say ‘My kids love this!’ So that’s very gratifying.”

Patrick was also quick to respond to a request from former Utah Tech President Richard “Biff” Williams, who asked if the developer might be able to help the university’s golf team, which lacked practice space.

“That was an easy one,” Patrick says, laughing. “We gave them some property and built them a facility that’s now professional caliber. Since Biff had given the OK to add a hospitality program to Utah Tech—which we had requested, to train all the staff we’ll need when the resort opens, including our 25 restaurants—it was a no-brainer.”

Along with underwriting Tuacahn Center for the Arts, the Southwest Symphony and similar organizations, Patrick hopes that Black Desert can become home to a coalition of the area’s many arts groups. He has hired Tony- and Grammy-nominated actress and operatic soprano Lisa Hopkins Seegmiller to take the lead.

“There’s so much room to support our arts community and to foster collaboration between all of the groups,” says Patrick, whose 13-year-old daughter—who performs as Lillian Breeze— recently was the youngest soprano ever to take the stage at Lincoln Center.

Patrick was sponsor and highest bidder at Utah Tech’s 2024 Fire and Ice Gala, signing a $50,000 check that funded a private Cox Auditorium concert featuring Lillian, Lisa, composer and

“...Patrick ... remains committed to giving back to the community that has enabled him to achieve his vision.”

keyboardist Kurt Bestor, and renowned violinist Jenny Oaks Baker. After nailing the winning bid, Patrick promptly handed the package off to the City of Ivins.

“Ivins has been so supportive from the beginning; I wanted to thank everyone there for making us feel so welcome,” he says.

Then, considering the impact that Black Desert has made, Patrick adds, “To most people, it’s a resort. To me, it’s a tool to be leveraged for the good of the community and the state.”

For more information, or to schedule a tour, visit blackdesertresort.com.

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

Photo by Brian Oar

Photo by Brian Oar

ARTICLE BY WENDY WILSON SPOONER

AN INTERVIEW WITH UTAH TECH’S NEW ASSOCIATE DEAN OF ARTS, GLENN WEBB, DMA

MASTER OF MUSIC

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DONNA CONSERVANO

You know that dramatic drum solo in the grand symphonic orchestra, where harmonies interweave and melodies take flight? The percussion section anchors it all, standing

“CHILDHOOD

Continuing his advancement in music, Glenn pursued a Bachelor of Arts in music education from Weber State University, then a master’s in Percussion Performance at

WAS A BLEND OF HOT SUMMERS, FAMILY AND THE NEED TO PRACTICE.”

tall with energetic rhythms and dynamic bursts. You could describe Glenn Webb the same way. He is a percussionist extraordinaire and so much more.

A St. George native, Glenn’s love of music began as a child when his mother took guitar lessons. As she practiced the great songs of the era, Glenn sat enthralled, tapping along to mesmerizing beats. One day his mother stopped playing and asked, “Do you want to take drum lessons? There is a teacher at the studio.” Glenn’s eager response was simply, “Sure!”

From an early age, the up-and-coming maestro mastered scales and arpeggios. His grandmother woke him early to practice so he would have time to play little league after school. Glenn’s childhood was a blend of hot summers, family and the need to practice.

the University of Utah, and finally, his Doctorate of Musical Arts at University of Nevada, Las Vegas. In Spring 2008, when Glenn was elected founding chair of the music department at then Dixie College, a music degree program quickly developed, because former college president Stephen Nadauld knew “If we can get a music degree, we can get anything.”

This coming July, “Dr. Webb” will step into the role of associate dean of the arts, where his passion, interest and vast experience will further advance the Utah Tech music department. What advice would Glenn offer to students entering the music program?

“They can do whatever they want,” he said, “but first, they must become good at their craft. People are not interested in hobbyists. Students need to become skilled in creating material and getting it out there.”

CONTINUED >

Continuing on, he explained, “In today’s internet world, there are far more opportunities than what the 20th century had to offer. Big companies used to rule everything, and you had to get a record deal to become somebody. But now, you can place your music on numerous platforms—Band Camp, Spotify, Sound Cloud and YouTube—and have a financially rewarding career. As well, you can follow a path of performing in professional bands, orchestras or teaching, which is a great life, too.”

Outside of academics, Glenn established the Rebel Jazz Band in 2010, which he maintains with great enthusiasm through eight performances a year. Notable events include their annual holiday concert and the St. George Jazz Festival. And if you are wondering if Glenn engages in hobbies and interests outside of music—he does! British mystery novels and road trips with his wife through the stunning national parks of the western United States are two of his favorites.

Our interview concluded with a conversation about the fast pace at which Utah Tech is changing. So fast, Glenn said, “What you think you know about the college is probably out of date.”

Glenn believes in change—change that involves taking the best things with you as you move ahead. He finds his work at the university highly rewarding, and he encourages anyone interested in the music program to climb aboard and fulfill their dreams in a spectacular setting.

FATHER’S

Day

A DAUGHTER'S TRIBUTE RECOLLECTIONS

ARTICLE BY HOLLY INFANTE

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF HOLLY INFANTE

My father was a world traveler and a lover of many things, among which was music. Before he joined the Color Country Chorus of St. George, or ever sang in barbershop quartets, he played the acoustic guitar. One of my earliest childhood memories—is of my father— strumming his six-string and serenading us at bedtime. The tender ballads he sang brought tears to my eyes—routinely.

Photo by Darren Schmitt

The two songs I remember most are “Lightning Express,” also known as “Please Mr. Conductor,” and “Put My Little Shoes Away.” I later learned that both songs were early 20th-century country ballads covered and harmonized by the Everly Brothers, Don and Phil Everly, in their 1958 album, “Songs Our Daddy Taught Us.”

As I reflect on the many things my father taught me, I am again drawn back to my childhood. When I was five, we lived in a high-rise apartment on Hong Kong Island. One night, as we were walking through the parking lot, he stopped. Pointing up to the night sky, he showed me how to identify the Big Dipper. That was the first time I remember seeing stars, and my fascination with astronomy was born.

When Haley’s comet made its appearance in 1986, he calculated the optimum viewing opportunity with minimal light pollution and cloud cover. We strapped on our motorcycle helmets, and I held on tightly as we zoomed up to Victoria Peak at 2 a.m. on a school night. I was the luckiest 11-year-old on the planet!

Acclaimed American novelist, John Gregory Brown, once wrote:

“There’s something like a line of gold thread running through a man’s words when he talks to his daughter, and gradually over the years it gets to be long enough for you to pick up in your hands and weave into a cloth that feels like love itself.”

Now, as I am older, and my father has “slipped the surly bonds of Earth,” these words ring ever true.

One of my earliest childhood memories— is of my father— strumming his sixstring and serenading us at bedtime.

Our Hong Kong Harbor View

New York 1969

CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY

Tri-Tip Roast on the Barbeque for Fathers Day!

• Start with a 2 - 2 1/2 lb Tri Tip Roast

• Generouly rub the meat with your favorite Drunken Butcher dry rub from Digby's.

• Toss in a ziploc bag with some olive oil and let rest in the fridge for up to 12 hours.

• Preheat your grill to a medium heat (between 350 and 375). Bring meat to room temperature while your grill preheats.

• Start with the fat side up so as it starts to melt, the juices will flavor the meat.

• Cook for 15 minutes before flipping, then depending on how rare you want your roast, cook for anywhere from 8-12 minutes more until it reaches 135 degrees for medium-rare, or 140-145 for medium.

• Remove from grill. place in a baking dish and tent with foil to trap the heat.

• Allow the meat to rest for about 10 minutes to keep the roast juicy.

• To slice, cut against the grain in thin (1/2") slices.

• Serve with your favorite sides or try ours - sauteed mushrooms, baked beans, potato salad, marinated pasta salad, broccoli salad and jalapeno cornbread!

Fabulous Flatbread

This dish is from Chef Evon Profitt, the director of culinary operations for all of Westside Concepts in Arizona. This flatbread with grilled peaches, house-made rosemary paneer cheese, soppressata, fresh mint, and pistachios with a balsamic drizzle is to die for.

Grilled Peach Flatbread with House-Made Rosemary Paneer Cheese

Yield: 4 flatbreads

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 peaches cut into 8 pieces each

• 12 slices soppressata or any salami

• Fresh mint

• 1 tbsp. olive oil

• ¼ cup pistachios, chopped

• Balsamic reduction

• 4 baked naan bread

FOR THE PANEER CHEESE:

• 6 cups whole milk

• 2 tbsp. rice wine vinegar

• ½ tbsp. fresh rosemary, chopped

• 1 tsp. kosher salt

HOW TO MAKE PANEER CHEESE:

Paneer cheese is made by curdling milk using an acidic additive such as lemon juice or vinegar. Paneer cheese does not use any kind of rennet, nor fermentation or aging.

In a pot, bring 6 cups of whole milk to 200 degrees. Once milk has reached temp., stir in the 2 tbsp. of vinegar and turn off heat; milk will begin to separate. Allow milk to curd for 5 minutes, strain whey and curds into a cheesecloth-lined colander. Transfer curds to a mixing bowl and add chopped rosemary and 1 tsp. kosher salt, mix ingredients together, reserve the cheesecloth for the next step. Place the curds back into the cheesecloth, pull the corners of the cloth together, ring out excess whey from the curds, and hang for 30 minutes to continue draining. Once the curds have drained, place cheesecloth-wrapped curds back into the colander and place a heavy item on top, in order to press the curds into shape and press more of the whey from the cheese, for 3-4 hours. Use cheese fresh or keep refrigerated up to 4 days.

FLATBREAD:

Brush olive oil onto both sides of naan flatbread, and place in oven on rack for 10 minutes at 400 degrees, or grill for 2 minutes each side. Grill peach slices for 2 minutes each side, or place in oiled sauté pan till each side begins to caramelize. On a cutting board, lay flatbread down, and place grilled peach slices around flatbread. Take small pieces of Paneer cheese and place throughout over the peaches. Be creative and find place for the soppressata or salami of your choice. Garnish with crushed pistachios and torn fresh mint. Cut flatbread, transfer to serving plates, and drizzle with balsamic reduction.

“I love the use of fresh, locally sourced peaches, and giving people the chance to make an easy, versatile cheese at home with ingredients that many already have in their refrigerators and pantries.”

SAVOR LIFE & FIND YOUR True Wealth

ARTICLE BY SHEENA STEEDMAN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SCOTT MOORE

Indulge in Tuscan serenity, savor life’s richness, and rediscover yourself

The soft morning light filters through the curtains as you awake to birdsong and a gentle breeze. Stepping onto the balcony, you behold endless vineyards rippling in the Tuscan hills and can’t believe this paradise is real.

Walking downstairs, you’re greeted by many new faces of people smiling and excited to see you, new friends, gathered around a long wooden table immaculately set with steaming quiche, luscious fruit, warm bread, and Italian cappuccino.

This is just the beginning of days spent practicing yoga in nature’s rhythms, discovering ancient towns, and pausing to savor beauty at every turn.

If you can envision waking up like this, you’re ready for a yoga retreat with Scott Moore.

Retreats are an investment—in your truest self—the part of you that gets lost in the rush of daily life.

We frequently invest our money into stocks, bonds, and real estate, yet fail to invest in the one irreplaceable resource that makes it all possible, ourselves—our true wealth.

On this journey, all details have been meticulously planned so you can stay within your budget and fully relax into the experience.

After immersing in the richness of the present moment, slowing down and savoring life, you’ll return replenished and ready to bring this mindset of appreciation into your everyday world.

Reap the returns of a broadened perspective and renewed vitality—the dividends are endless.

Find out more about upcoming retreats with Scott Moore in destinations like Tuscany, Sardinia, Bordeaux, and the French Riviera at scottmooreyoga.com/retreats .

FINE

INVITATIONS

IMPRINTED NAPKINS ANNOUNCEMENTS

CUSTOM GIFTS

STATIONERY

BUSINESS CARDS GREETING CARDS

CRYSTAL VASES

DRINKWARE

AWARDS

QUALITY WRITING INSTRUMENTS

DIRECT MAIL BROCHURES BUSINESS FORMS

Perfecting Your Golf Swing

ARTICLE BY DANIEL SCHOWENGERDT

Whether you are a new golfer or have been playing for decades, we all want the same thing—to be a single-digit handicap (or better). In some professions, golfing with clients is a must, and slicing off the tee box can kill the deal.

01.

Get fit for equipment.

If you’ve been playing with the same clubs for 5+ years, it’s time to take advantage of the new equipment. Newer clubs have lower and deeper center of gravity (CG), creating an easier launch off the face. Even off-center strikes can produce a straight shot with the right set of clubs. Any major golf store will fit you for free—just make sure you get the correct length club and size grip. The clubs don’t swing themselves, so don’t neglect instruction and practice, but getting the right equipment is a vital piece of the puzzle.

On drivers and hybrids, some of the newest equipment have premium shaft options off the rack. Generally, a $300 driver has a low-grade $15 shaft that you should change. The shaft is the engine of the club, so getting custom shafts will add distance and forgiveness—guaranteed.

As for the putter, you use it more than any other club in your bag on every round of golf. It should be the most tailored club in your bag.

02.

Read quality golf books for a higher golf IQ.

There are thousands of golf books, but don’t worry, you only need to read a handful of them to up your golf IQ. Here are some top reads:

Short game: Dave Pelz’s Short Game Bible by Dave Pelz Mental game: Golf is Not a Game of Perfect by Bob Rotella Mechanics: Practical Golf by John Jacobs Ball flight laws: The Practice Manual by Adam Young (only read the first 50 pages)

03.

Practice your short game every day.

You don’t even have to spend time away from your family while practicing if you don’t have a golf simulator. You can practice putting and chipping on the carpet while watching TV with your family.

Chipping and the bump and run: The only mechanical advice I will give is the most important lesson you can learn in the short game. When you miss your approach shot you must be able to chip the ball within 8 feet of the hole for a one putt. Try this shot from Dave Peltz’s short game book. It gets me up and down from 25 yards out to just off the green.

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MAY 3RD THROUGH OCTOBER 19TH

Tuacahn Amphitheatre Summer Season

Tuacahn Amphitheatre, 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

EVERY SATURDAY

Downtown Farmers Market

Vernon Worthen Park, 300 S. 400 E., St. George | 8:00 AM

Every Saturday, year-round. 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 out to local tunes. This is truly an event for the whole family!

EVERY SATURDAY

Tuacahn Saturday Market

Tuacahn Amphitheatre, 1100 Tuacahn Dr., Ivins | 10:00 AM

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 at The Tuacahn Saturday Market. Admission and live entertainment are free.

EVERY SATURDAY

Hurricane Valley Farmers Market

Hurricane Recreation Center, 63 S. 100 W., Hurricane | 9:00 AM

Enjoy fresh fruits, veggies, delicious baked goodies and handmade creations from talented farmers, bakers and crafters. The Hurricane Farmers Market runs every Saturday from April through November, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

2ND AND 4TH FRIDAYS

Movie in the Park

Vernon Worthen Park, 300 S. 400 E., St. George | 8:45 PM

Vernon Worthen Park becomes an outdoor movie theatre on the 2nd and 4th Friday of the month. This month—The Fly Boys. Classic movies for adults and children will be shown on the big screen under the stars. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs and goodies to enjoy the evening and movie as it begins at dusk.

THROUGH JUNE 15TH

Funny Girl, directed by Richard Bugg

St. George Musical Theater, 212 N. Main St., St. George

Funny Girl tells the story of Fanny Brice, a young, talented performer with dreams of making it big in show business. She experiences love, heartbreak and the challenges of being a woman in the entertainment industry. Filled with iconic songs and a blend of humor and drama, Funny Girl showcases the indomitable spirit of its lead character. Tickets at sgmt.org

JUNE 1ST

Quail Creek Luau

Quail Creek State Park, 472 N. 5300 W., Hurricane | 6:30 PM

Dig Paddlesports will partner with Siva Pasefika to offer a unique outdoor experience on Quail Lake’s water’s edge. Bring your own beach chairs and beach blankets. $55 includes dinner and entertainment. Child tickets (12 and under) are $35. Tickets at digpaddlesports.com.

JUNE 1ST

St. George Sunrise Market

Hela Seegmiller Historic Farm, 259 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 of all types! Join us at the Hela Seegmiller Historic Farm, where you can feel connected to the community. Experience fun music with swing dancing, old-fashioned caramel kettle corn and caramel apples.

JUNE 7TH

Good Vibrations Concert

The Rock Bowl at Sand Hollow Resort, 5662 W. Clubhouse Drive, Hurricane | 6:30 PM

Come on down to Sand Hollow Resort and soak up the stunning red rock scenery while grooving to the classic tunes of Good Vibrations—A Tribute to The Beach Boys. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. Concert starts at 7 p.m. Tickets at SandHollowResort.com.

JUNE 7TH

Live Music with Mark Boggs

Bumbleberry Theater, 897 Zion Park Blvd., Springdale | 9:00 PM

Mark Boggs appears at the Bumbleberry Theater on the first Friday of each month, beginning in May and continuing until September. Experience the musical magic of Mark Boggs as he dazzles you with a medley of music genres. Free to the public.

JUNE 7TH

DOCUTAH Presents: Song for Our People

Lorraine Boccardo Theater at Kayenta Art Village, 881 Coyote Gulch Ct., Ivins | 5:30 PM

Go behind the scenes of an unforgettable recording session where an extraordinary group of artist activists come together to create a powerful new anthem to honor Black lives and inspire the fight for racial justice in America. Arrive early for FIRST FRIDAYS! Enjoy live music, food and fun in the Kayenta Art Village beginning at 5:30 p.m. Tickets at kayentaarts.org.

JUNE 8TH

Celebration Band

Bumbleberry Theater, 897 Zion Park Blvd., Springdale | 7:00 PM

Celebration Band is a 10-piece “horn band” with a dedicated sound engineer composed of some of southern Utah’s best musicians. The band has specialized in playing a variety of musical genres across decades, including rock, R&B, blues, funk and even a little country and disco. $15 a person. Tickets at bumbleberry.com.

JUNE 14TH AND 15TH

Stars and Stripes Forever—Flag Day Concerts

St. George Tabernacle, 18 S Main St., St. George | 7:00 PM

The Southern Utah Heritage Choir will perform two patriotic concerts in honor of Flag Day at the St. George Tabernacle. Stars and Stripes Forever, Friday, June 14 at 7 p.m., and Saturday June 15th at noon. The concerts are open and free to the public.

JUNE 14TH

Bandabba—a Tribute to the Music of Abba

The Rock Bowl at Sand Hollow Resort, 5662 W. Clubhouse Dr., Hurricane | 6:30 PM

Come on down to Sand Hollow Resort and soak up the stunning red rock scenery while grooving to the classic tunes of BANDABBA—a Tribute to the Music of ABBA. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. Concert starts at 7 p.m. Tickets at SandHollowResort.com

JUNE 17TH - OCTOBER 5TH

The Utah Shakespeare Festival

195 W. Center St., Cedar City | 8:00 PM

Utah Shakespeare Festival is held in Cedar City and offers matinee performances at 2 p.m. and evening performances at 8 p.m. in three grand theaters. The Festival also offers a FREE nightly Greenshow (summer) at 7:10 p.m., backstage tours, play and production seminars, Repertory Magic and play orientations. For the 2024 schedule and tickets visit www.bard.org

Want to be featured?

GET IN TOUCH AT CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/STGEORGE