St George, UT April 2026

Where Precision Meets Passion

Does It Make Cents?

The proverb of a penny saved is a penny earned is a dying idiom.  Not only was the last U.S. penny stamped in November of 2025, but also it seems as though the meaning has been lost in this current generation.  Personal savings have reverted to a dangerous low in U.S. history of 3% to 4%.  A significant portion of Americans live paycheck to paycheck with 24% having no emergency savings at all.  We are truly seeing the death of the penny.  We can talk about the contributing factors of increased access to credit and rising consumer consumption, but how do we learn to save?  My husband has a title company here in St. George.  He helps young and not so young couples close their mortgage loans.  Occasionally, he shares sage advice to show that saving doesn’t have to be difficult with his, “Bubble gum and hairspray speech”. He challenges the couple to take an honest look at their budget to find the bubble gum and hairspray items that they purchase.  Not literally those items but things that they purchase that don’t add value to their lives. Then he challenges them to take that portion and add it to either paying off their mortgage faster, saving or making wise investments for the time ahead. Investing and saving are a sign that we have hope for the future.

In this Investment issue of St. George City Lifestyle we have a must read from cybersecurity expert, Alex Isanski, that will help you protect your information from scammers, you may want to share this article with a friend or family member. Snow, Jensen and Reece, P.C. give effective estate planning advice.  We also discover more about the history of the Zion’s Cooperative Mercantile Institution.

Don’t miss learning about Utah Tech’s new President, Shane B. Smeed.  An exciting future is ahead for the university, the students and the community.

St. George has a bright future, it is growing and with this growth we need to invest wisely.  Investing in our community, our schools, our health, and in our relationships is the hope that all these areas will flourish. So invest wisely, be patient and know that every little bit adds up. We can make every penny count.

Best,

April 2026

PUBLISHER

Joe Morris | joe.morris@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Rachel Kidman | rachel.kidman@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Holly Morris | holly.morris@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angela Broockerd, Alex Isanski, Curtis M. Jensen, Rachel Kidman, Anna Lytle, Chris Majernik, Allison Swan

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Heidi Anderson, City of St. George, Matt Black, Scott Garrett, Janie Jones, Rachel Kidman, Katelyn Miner, Holly Morris, Alex Santiago, Snow, Jensen and Reece P.C., St. George Chamber, University of Utah, Utah State Historical Society

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Emily Lisenbee

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle

RACHEL KIDMAN, EDITOR @STGEORGECITYLIFESTYLE

GRAND OPENING GRAND OPENING GRAND OPENING GRAND OPENING

SATURDAY, MARCH 28TH

10 AM - 8 PM 210 N 1000 E St. George

Scan for details

$1000'S OF DOLLARS IN GIVEAWAYS & RAFFLES!

FOOD TRUCKS * FACE PAINTING * CHARACTER APPEARANCES FREE SWAG FOR FIRST 50 IN LINE!

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Soup N Bowl Fundraiser for St. George Art Museum, enjoyed by Best and DeGomez Family 2: Utah Arts Academy House Band provided entertainment for the Soup N Bowl fundraiser 3: Members of St. George Chamber meeting with Rep. Joseph Elison and other Legislators 4: Utah Attorney General Derek Brown met with members of the St. George Chamber of Commerce 5: Dr. Ginamarie Foglia, DO, MPH, FACP presents Functional Fitness at UTU's Institute of Continued Learning 6: Unveiling of Lady Liberty at the Historic Pioneer Courthouse 7: Local jazz/blues vocalist, Christian Erickson, at his "Let's Fall in Love" concert at the Tabernacle

Want to be seen in the magazine?

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Barely Buzzed: Espresso and lavender rub, a revelation alongside Tawny Port or a velvety stout.

Where heritage meets sophistication, a new chapter in Utah’s fine wine and spirits culture begins. Southern Spirits & Wine opened its doors, inviting you into a world where every pour, every aroma, every note is curated for those who appreciate life’s rare pleasures.

business monthly

Historic Canal Trail Ribbon Cutting

Mayor Kress Staheli, with council members from Washington City and Washington County, celebrated the opening of the historic Canal Trail on Feb. 6th.  Mayor Staheli reminisced about his personal connections with the canal and the connecting of history, families and now our communities, stating "Trail systems are the spokes that connect our communities".  The 1.5 miles of trail connects Washington Dam Road to Majestic Fields Elementary and then on to Crimson Cliffs High School.

Scan to read more

Beam Signing at the St. George Regional Airport

Jennifer Jensen helped members from the community sign the beam for the new air traffic control tower at the St. George Regional Airport on January 20th.  The new tower will offer increased safety and expansion of the facility which will help with the community's continued demands of growth. Completion of the tower is expected in October and will be ready for use in early 2027.

Historic Pioneer Courthouse Grand Re-Opening

The City of St. George is excited to see this local landmark and historic icon in Washington County continue to serve our community as it has for over 150 years! The building is now the home of United We Pledge and the Give Me Liberty Program. It is also the second location for Berries-n-Cream. Booking is coming soon for hosting celebrations, meetings, graduations, weddings and more! For information please email- events@unitedwepledge.org

Redefining MVP: TIM TEBOW’S LIFE BEYOND FOOTBALL

An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.

Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.

A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.

Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?

A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.

Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?

A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.

Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?

A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.

“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”

Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?

A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”

Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.

This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

ARTICLE BY ALEX ISANSKI, CYBERSECURITY EXPERT | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

FRAUD PREVENTION HELP

HERE’S WHAT YOU CAN DO RIGHT NOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF WITH A SMALL INVESTMENT OF TIME

When visiting my father at home one afternoon, he received a call from what appeared to be his bank—scammers had hijacked the bank’s phone number, making the call look completely legitimate. I knew it was a scam, and while he was still on the phone, I quickly logged into his account. In real time, we watched $15,000 being transferred out, his email address being changed to the scammer’s email, and his phone number replaced—effectively locking him out of his own account. Luckily, I was there, and with my expertise in cybersecurity and fraud prevention, I was able to intervene, stop the transaction, and rectify the situation. It took several days to fully restore his accounts. At the time, I wondered: What do people do when their daughters aren’t in cybersecurity? Events like this could ruin someone’s financial future. That was when I started offering free, hands-on community fraud prevention workshops to help as many people as I could. I quickly realized that most people don’t need more fear—they need awareness and practical tools.

The number one comment I hear at the beginning is, “I already know what to do—I won’t get scammed.” People are confident they can spot phishing emails or suspicious links. But the mood shifts when I show them their own compromised usernames and

passwords, full credit card number information online, social security numbers, and personal data. While they may be doing everything right to avoid scams, the fraud is often happening without them even being aware of it. The astonishment on their faces says it all. What feels like a distant threat suddenly becomes real, and they leave understanding that fraud prevention isn’t just about spotting scams—it’s about recognizing how quickly and convincingly they can happen to anyone.

HAS YOUR DATA BEEN COMPROMISED?

If you have an iPhone, Gmail, Microsoft, or Facebook account, it is more likely than not that at least one of your financial account usernames and passwords has already been leaked on the dark web. Those exposed credentials are often traded or shared in cybercrime communities and are specifically used to attempt financial fraud, identity theft, and financial account takeovers.

Want to see if your usernames and passwords have been compromised? iPhone: Open your Passwords app and check the Security tab. The majority of people will have 10 or more compromised passwords.

Change your Passwords

“AT THE TIME, I WONDERED: WHAT DO PEOPLE DO WHEN THEIR DAUGHTERS AREN’T IN CYBERSECURITY?  EVENTS LIKE THIS COULD RUIN SOMEONE’S FINANCIAL FUTURE.”

Google: Open your Password Manager (if you’re not sure how, you can Google it). Many of the passwords listed there may have been exposed online.

You can do the same with Microsoft. If you have a laptop or home computer that is not an Apple device, you have a Microsoft account.

HOW THIS PUTS YOU AT RISK

Unfortunately, data breaches have become routine. We are not going to stop using the internet or banking online— so how

can we start protecting ourselves?  The real risk comes from password reuse.

If you used the same password for the following:

• An online store (e.g., Amazon, Walmart, Etsy, Pinterest, Netflix)

• Your email account

• Your banking app

Then a breach of that store could give attackers the key to test your email or financial accounts.Criminals use automated tools to try stolen credentials across major platforms at scale. If the password works, they move quickly — often resetting other accounts through your email! Your email account, in particular, is the gateway to your financial life. If someone gains access to it, they can trigger password resets for banks, investment accounts, crypto wallets, and payment platforms.

This is how financial scams often begin — not with a dramatic hack, but with a reused password from years ago.

WHAT YOU CAN DO RIGHT NOW

The good news: you can significantly reduce your risk in under an hour.

1. Change These Passwords Immediately

Start with:

• Email account

• Bank account and financial services (Venmo, CashApp, Paypal)

Prioritize your Email Security

• Apple ID

• Gmail/Google account

2. Stop Reusing Passwords

The key is to make each of these passwords unique and never use them anywhere else on the internet. I know it is annoying... but so is being financially scammed.

3. Turn On Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) for These Accounts.

This adds a second layer of protection. Even if someone has your password, it makes it much more difficult to log in without the additional verification code.

4. Prioritize Your Email Security

If your email is secured with a strong, unique password and 2FA enabled, you dramatically reduce the chance of a financial domino effect.

SO WHAT TO DO NEXT

Your credentials have already been exposed online. That’s not fear-mongering — it’s the reality of today’s digital world. But

exposure does not automatically mean financial loss. The difference between becoming a victim and staying protected often comes down to taking a few immediate actions and improving your cybersecurity knowledge.

You can’t control past breaches... but you can control what happens next.

If you want to learn more about protecting your personal data, finances, identities, and peace of mind— come to the free Fraud Prevention event, Safer Horizon - Total Fraud Prevention, at the Dixie Convention Center on June 3rd.

For more information about the event, visit: www.flexandsiege. com/saferhorizon

Entrance is free and so is the awareness and education being offered through free workshops, local exhibitors, and fraud prevention experts eager to share resources, giveaways, food, and facts.

“Having worked in tech in San Francisco for the past 6 years, I have shifted my dedication to personal cybersecurity—helping individuals understand their digital exposure and equipping them with practical tools to protect themselves from fraud, identity theft, and online scams.” -Alex Isanski- Cybersecurity and Fraud Prevention Expert

Or maybe it’s someone you know. time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction. Set your schedule. Make an

INTRODUCING PRESIDENT SHANE B. SMEED

STRENGTHENING TIES WITH UTAH TECH UNIVERSITY

Shane B. Smeed joined Utah Tech University in 2025 as the President. His first visit to St. George was during the interview process, yet he and his family have embraced the University and the area wholeheartedly. With Angela, his wife, one daughter recently married, and two sonsone fresh off an L.D.S. mission and another in high school- the Smeed family has come to enjoy this community that fits the family motto of “Active Learning, Active Life”.

One of President Smeed’s favorite pastimes is paddle boarding along with climbing and hiking. These pastimes are perfect for their family to enjoy spending time in the beautiful scenery of

“It's a gift and a privilege to work in higher education because we get to surround ourselves with students and nothing brings me, our faculty and staff greater joy than to be able to serve students.”

Washington County. Moving from Kansas City was quite a difficult decision for the Smeed family.  However, after accepting the position they have felt it has been the greatest decision that they could possibly have made, not only for themselves, but most importantly for the students that they serve here.

President Smeed shared the framework for Utah Tech’s five-year strategic plan. There are four pillars of the plan. The first is an example of Academic Excellence and Innovation. The second is Student Experience and Success,

third is People and Culture and the fourth pillar is Community Engagement and Philanthropy.  “Community engagement is central to my leadership as the President of the University.  One of my most important responsibilities is to continue to build strong bridges between the community and the university, building relationships of trust. We have a tremendous history and heritage here in St. George and Washington County.  History and heritage that is framed around the university, dating back to 1911. We have to be part of that storytelling process.”

As part of building bridges with the community, President Smeed wants everyone to come see what is happening on campus,  “We are inviting the community to come and participate, as much as they are able.  We want them to be involved.” Every week the men’s basketball team receives larger attendance at the games and winning is essential to that. In athletics as we continue to have success, residents want to participate and have pride in their Trailblazers.  “It’s exciting to see the Burns Arena when it is

The Smeed family has come to enjoy this community that fits the family motto of “Active Learning, Active Life”.

packed. I look around and see more community members than students, faculty and staff.”  President Smeed expressed gratitude for the support received from the community, not only in athletics but also for the recent Sears Museum Gala.  He encourages alumni who have graduated from Dixie College or Dixie State University to come to the bookstore and get swag.

The best leaders help to develop leadership skills in others.  President Smeed was pleased to spotlight the Utah Tech Student Association,  “UTSA is led by a really terrific student leader and president named Chelsea Ramirez.  She has other leaders within that organization with various responsibilities, such as volunteering in the community.  They lead out in a very profound way.”  UTSA aims to foster school spirit, create unity, and craft a unique student culture.   “We get a vision of what they are going to do once they graduate, get out into the community, and start working for an organization or company.  That is what I am really excited about.”

At Utah Tech, President Smeed is leading initiatives in workforce development.

“To keep strong connections between industry, our workforce and education is a high priority for us.”  Not only does our state prioritize this connection but our community expects it.  “Our students are the next health care professionals, the next group of engineers that are going to develop something of significance.  The next teachers and educators teaching the next generation of students”.

President Smeed recently announced a new scholarship opportunity for students from Dixie Tech College. The scholarship was created to better forge seamless pathways between technical education and university degrees.  Upon completion of certification, if a student desires to continue their education they can receive a bridge scholarship to attend Utah Tech.  This scholarship will help many students on their educational pathway.

“It is a gift and a privilege to work in higher education because we get to surround ourselves with students and nothing brings me and our faculty and staff greater joy than to be able to serve students.”

BUILDING LEGACIES THAT LAST

ARTICLE BY CURTIS M. JENSEN AND CHRIS MAJERNIK |

INVESTING IN A SKILLED

ESTATE PLANNING ATTORNEY

In many households, a legacy is measured in more than financial statements. It lives in the paintings on the walls, the heirloom jewelry passed down through generations, the family home filled with stories, and the charitable causes that reflect a lifetime of values. Snow Jensen & Reece, P.C. knows that estate planning is more than just dividing up assets. Estate planning is a powerful vehicle to show this love, not just in the moment, but for generations and generations after.

How Estate Planning Builds a Loving Legacy

Many people think of estate planning as paperwork or a distant concern. In reality, it is one of the most thoughtful decisions a person can make for their family. A carefully crafted plan provides structure and direction at a time when loved ones may be grieving or uncertain.

We at Snow Jensen & Reece, P.C. believe that estate planning is a vital tool for building a lasting legacy, showing children and grandchildren that they are cared for and well-loved. Effective estate planning can take advantage of tax benefits, use trusts to avoid probate, and provide detailed instructions to avoid confusion when beneficiaries are sorting through the estate. If clear is kind, then love is logistics. Our estate planning attorney can help build a plan that conforms to each individual’s unique situation to offer the most benefits.

Why Work with an Attorney?

This legacy, however, does not come easily. While online templates and do-it-yourself solutions may appear convenient, they often fail to address the complexities of real life and significant assets. What these approaches often underestimate is the power of clarity. For families grieving the loss of a loved one, confusion and conflict can be salt on the wound in an already painful season

of life. A clear, direct, and legally sound estate plan can help relieve this burden from loved ones by providing direct answers and effective communication. Our skilled estate planning attorney at Snow Jensen & Reece P.C. can decode legal jargon and work with individuals to find creative estate plan solutions.

We help translate complex legal language into clear, understandable terms, design strategies to reduce taxes and preserve wealth, structure trusts that reflect your family dynamics and long-term goals, protect assets for future generations, and coordinate charitable giving and legacy planning. This level of personalization ensures your estate plan reflects not only your financial situation, but also your values, relationships, and vision for the future.

Planning for Life’s Unexpected Moments

Estate planning is not only about what happens after you are gone. It also provides protection during your lifetime. If illness or injury prevents you from making decisions, powers of attorney and healthcare directives allow trusted individuals to step in and act according to your wishes. These documents preserve your independence, reduce stress for loved ones, and ensure important financial and medical decisions are handled with clarity and confidence. In addition, many estate planning tools, such as trusts, help keep your affairs private and out of the public probate process, giving you greater control over how and when your legacy is passed on.

Finding Creative Solutions

Comprehensive planning often includes a range of tools designed to protect both assets and loved ones. A robust estate plan may include advance healthcare directives for end-of-life care, unique types of special needs or irrevocable trusts for select beneficiaries, or even a combination of multiple estate planning documents. Estate planning attorneys work with a vast array of tools and legal documents to provide creative solutions that ensure families are getting the greatest benefit.

A well-crafted plan may incorporate revocable or irrevocable trusts, special needs trusts for vulnerable beneficiaries, healthcare directives and powers of attorney, business succession strategies, charitable trusts or foundations, and asset protection planning. These instruments work together to create a cohesive strategy that preserves wealth, protects privacy, and ensures every detail aligns with your intentions.

Start Planning for Tomorrow Today

Leaving a strong legacy for children and grandchildren is of the utmost importance. A strong estate plan, like the trunk of a tree that allows the branches to flourish and bear fruit, can help support this vision. A knowledgeable estate planning lawyer can walk families through the estate planning process step-by-step, taking each nuance and detail of every family’s circumstances into account. Snow Jensen & Reece P.C. has proudly served the community since 1986, becoming the largest locally owned and operated law firm in Southern Utah. Learn how you can jumpstart your legacy now in a personalized consultation with an estate planning attorney.

ARTICLE BY ALLISON SWAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Inquiring Chef

START WITH A VEGETABLE

Jess Smith is the founder of the popular food blog InquiringChef.com, which she started in 2010 after moving to Thailand with her husband. She explored Thai cuisine, took cooking classes, and documented her experiences on the blog. Over time, her passion for cooking grew, leading her to focus on quick, easy meals for families. Today, Inquiring Chef receives over 5 million page views annually and supports a small team. She shares new recipes weekly through email, her blog, and social media, helping home cooks simplify mealtime without sacrificing flavor.

Smith is now an author. Her debut cookbook,  Start with a Vegetable, published in 2025 reimagines meal planning by putting vegetables at the center of the plate.

“Start with a Vegetable was the result of a natural transition in the way I started thinking about preparing dinner for my family. At the end of a busy day, I often didn't have the energy to think about dinner in parts by preparing a separate protein, vegetable, and starch,” says Smith. “I realized that if I put a vegetable at the center of the dish, the rest was easy to fill in.”

The book features 100 flexible recipes proving vegetables aren’t just a side— they’re key to simple, satisfying meals.

As chief recipe developer for the Cook Smarts meal-planning app, Smith worked closely with families struggling to get dinner on the table. She noticed a common challenge: people wanted to eat more vegetables but didn’t know how to build meals around them.

“As I started planning and testing recipes for the book, I just loved how easy it made dinnertime feel. Are there carrots in the fridge? Here are a bunch of ways to turn them into dinner. Nearly all of the 100 recipes are complete meals and include easy swaps to make them vegetarian. The book is truly flexitarian, with vegetable-forward recipes for all types of eaters.”

Unlike most cookbooks,  Start with a Vegetable is organized by ingredient. Each chapter focuses on a different vegetable, offering multiple ways to turn it into a meal.

“The concept is resonating with many readers who tell me they love that the chapters are organized by vegetable, making it easy to use whatever they have on hand.”

Smith went through a rigorous testing process, starting with over 300 ideas before narrowing them down to 100.

“I always have running lists of recipe ideas. I started sorting recipes into categories, making sure there was variety for each vegetable. I wanted different cooking methods and types of dishes, so each chapter might have a soup, a salad, a roasted dish, a stove-top dish, and a sandwich or pasta.”

After perfecting the recipes in her own kitchen, she passed them to a trusted friend, an everyday home cook, to ensure they worked under realworld conditions.

“I want to know how these recipes worked for a home cook who was shopping at regular grocery stores and trying to make dinner for a family on a weeknight. She sends me feedback on any ingredients that are hard to find, anything that is unclear in the recipe, and tracks how long it takes her to make it with real-life interruptions.”

To further refine the book, Smith enlisted 30 volunteer home cooks through Instagram and her email list to test the recipes.

“My goal was to ensure that the recipes in this book are reliable, easy, and adaptable. I wanted this to be a cookbook for real home cooks. I'm so grateful to that team of volunteers for helping to ensure that it is.”

To order a copy of the cookbook visit:  InquiringChef.com

CITRUS, CARROT, AND CHICKPEA COUSCOUS

Sweet carrots and tart cranberries complement each other in every bite of this tangy couscous. It makes a light meal on its own but becomes a showstopper when spread on a platter and topped with braised meat, roasted cauliflower steaks, or seared tofu. If you want to add a little creaminess, serve the couscous with a spoonful of plain yogurt.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound carrots

• one 15½-ounce can chickpeas

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 1½ teaspoons ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon ground ginger

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

• ¾ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for boiling

• ½ cup orange juice

• 1 cup water

• 1 cup dry regular or whole wheat couscous

• ⅓ cup sliced almonds

• 1 lemon

• ½ cup dried cranberries

• chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

Step 1. Preheat the oven to 425°F

Step 2. Peel the carrots and slice them diagonally into 1-inch ovals. Drain and rinse the chickpeas

Step 3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the carrots and chickpeas with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil, cumin, ginger, dried thyme, and ½ teaspoon of the salt, coating evenly.

Step 4. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the seasoned veggies and chickpeas on it in an even layer.

Step 5. Bake until the carrots become tender, 25 to 30 minutes. Stir halfway through cooking.

Step 6. Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan over high heat, combine the orange juice, water, and ½ teaspoon of salt. When the mixture begins to boil, remove it from the heat, stir in the couscous, cover, and let stand for 5 minutes.

Step 7. When the carrots become tender, sprinkle the almonds on them and continue baking until the almonds lightly toast, 4 to 5 more minutes.

Step 8. Juice the lemon for 1 tablespoon fresh juice.

Step 9. In the same mixing bowl used to season the veggies, whisk together the lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and the cranberries.

Step 10. Fluff the couscous with a fork and add it to the carrots, chickpeas, and almonds. Stir well to combine.

Step 11. Serve warm or refrigerate for 30 minutes and serve chilled. Just before serving, stir in the parsley.

HELLO, SPRING

New spring arrivals. Perfect for Easter and beyond.

Discover fresh spring arrivals perfect for Easter celebrations and the season ahead. From timeless outfits for babies, boys, and girls to a thoughtfully curated selection of Easter basket stuffers, you’ll find something special for every little one. Shop early for the best selection and celebrate spring in style.

The Greatest Investment Is a Well-Prepared Life

Investing is more than growing wealth, it’s protecting what you’ve built.

Nearly everything we value in the world exists digitally now, from bank accounts, to all kinds of insurance policies, property deeds, passwords, and vital documents. A TrustSafe Digital Vault is the vital asset designed for the way our life is lived now: remote, mobile, multi-device, multi-generation and multi-state. TrustSafe has quietly evolved as life evolved, and the ROI (rate of return) isn’t measured in dollars. It’s measured in the calm your family feels when they know exactly where to look and what to do.

Christine Alleman, CEO

Investing in organization and access may be one of the smartest investments you can make; not just for yourself, but for everyone you will leave behind. TrustSafe doesn’t replace estate or financial planners – it strengthens and supports them by adding accessibility to preparation and turning, “we have to figure it out!” into “it’s handled.”

What you have is important, but ensuring the right people can access it when it matters most is invaluable.

“Because some investments grow wealth, and other investments grow confidence.”

Investment in Community

The Legacy of ZCMI in Southern Utah

When we think of investment, we often think in modern terms; stocks, property, and financial returns. But in 1868, Utah’s leaders were thinking about something deeper: investing in people.

In October of that year, Brigham Young and a group of community leaders founded Zion’s Cooperative Mercantile Institution—better known as ZCMI. Sometimes called “America’s First Department Store,” it was created at a pivotal moment. The railroad was approaching the Great Basin, bringing new markets, new goods, and new competition. Territorial growth promised opportunity, but it also threatened the fragile, homegrown economy the Latter-day Saints had worked to build.

ZCMI was their answer.

Rather than compete individually against national chains and eastern merchants, communities pooled their resources. The store operated under a cooperative model: goods were sold “as low as they can possibly be sold,” with profits divided among the people at large. It was not simply a store, it was a system designed to strengthen local manufacturing and keep money circulating within the community.

The impact was immediate. In its first year, sales exceeded $1.25 million. ZCMI offered clothing, wagons, machinery, sewing machines, carpets, and everyday necessities.

ARTICLE BY ANNA LYTLE PHOTOGRAPHY BY CONTRIBUTION

Local cooperatives could purchase goods at the same price offered in Salt Lake City, ensuring rural settlements were not left behind.

Southern Utah quickly became part of this cooperative network.

In Washington County, a ZCMI building stood attached to the cotton factory located at 385 West Telegraph Street housing the Washington Co-op from 1875 to 1921. In downtown St. George, another branch operated at 75 North Main Street for a time, linking the red rock desert to a regional system of trade.

Even smaller settlements adopted the cooperative spirit. In Pinto, a mercantile institution presided over by James Eldridge operated out of a room in his home. In Hebron and Grafton, cooperative cattle herds were established, along with dairy in Hebron, and meat production in Grafton. In Rockville, wagons loaded with fruit traveled to Milford to reach the railroad, where produce was shipped north to ZCMI in Salt Lake City.

These were investments not only in commerce, but in stability.

ZCMI stores were marked with the phrase “Holiness to the Lord” above their entrances, often accompanied by the All-Seeing Eye. The message was clear: economic life and spiritual life were not separate. Supporting local industry was seen as a sacred duty.

The cooperative system did more than sell goods, it wove Southern Utah into a larger economic fabric while preserving local control. It gave isolated settlements access to markets and fair pricing, while allowing them to remain rooted in their own labor and production.

In an era of rapid change, ZCMI represented a bold investment in

self-reliance, shared prosperity, and community trust. Its legacy reminds us that sometimes the strongest returns come not from individual gain, but from investing together for the greater good.

Anna Lytle is a Southern Utah–based independent researcher and storyteller with a passion for uncovering the human stories behind the region’s past. She’s the creator of the podcast  What Once Was, where she blends research with storytelling to share the history of Southern Utah.

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

APRIL 2ND - 4TH

Thunder Junction Eggstravaganza

Thunder Junction All-Abilities Park at Tonaquint Park | 6:00 PM

Celebrate spring in style at the Thunder Junction Eggstravaganza! This Easter-themed event offers a variety of fun, interactive activities for kids and families. While it’s not a traditional Easter egg hunt, kids can enjoy searching for hidden egg stations throughout the park and more. April 2nd, 3rd, and 4th, 6:00-8:00 PM, $8 per person (Children under 12 months are free).

APRIL 3RD - 4TH

St. George Art Festival

Historic Town Square

Paintings. Sculptures. Textiles. Jewelry. Ceramics. Photography. Whatever artistic medium delights you most, you’ll find it at the St. George Art Festival! Experience works from nearly 200 nationally – and internationally – acclaimed artisans. In addition to displays of exceptional artwork, enjoy live entertainment, a vibrant children’s area, and over 30 food vendors. Admission is FREE. For more info: sgartfestival.com

APRIL 10TH - 11TH

Southern Utah Heritage Choir presents "Life Eternal" - Easter Concert

St. George Tabernacle

With a harmonious blend of voices and a commitment to artistic excellence, The Southern Utah Heritage Choir shares meaningful music with audiences throughout Southern Utah and the world. The "Life Eternal" Easter Concert will perform on Friday, April 10th at 7 pm and Saturday, April 11th at 2 pm and is free to the public. Visit HeritageChoir.org for event details.

APRIL 10TH - 12TH

St. George Home Expo

Dixie Convention Center | 12:00 PM

Step into the Home Expo for hands-on demonstrations, expert advice, and exclusive offers to elevate your home. Free Admission for all! The St. George Home Expo is taking place April 10–12, 2026 @Dixie Convention Center – 1835 S. Convention Center Dr. Friday: 12:00pm –8:00pm | Saturday: 10:00am – 6:00pm | Sunday: 11:00am – 4:00pm. For more information, visit: https://stgeorgehomeexpo.com

APRIL 10TH - 18TH

Washington County Fair

Washington County Fair Grounds- Hurricane

Celebrating 165 years of tradition, innovation, and community connection, the Fair continues to be a cornerstone celebration that honors the region’s heritage. Featuring a vibrant mix of experiences, including food vendors, retail vendors, demolition derby, boxing, rodeo, fireworks, contests, a parade, carnival rides, exhibits and entertainment including the band Neon Trees, offering nonstop fun for all ages. Info: washcofair.net

APRIL 17TH - 19TH

America 250 Founders Festival

Washington County Fair Grounds- Hurricane

The America 250 Founders Festival presented by Liberty Village and Washington County is an engaging event that features colonial-era activities and an artisans area where families can interact with crafts, games, hands-on experiences, lively demonstrations and activities from America’s founding period. Join us Thursday and Friday from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.