AAA Mountain West Group is a membership and full-service leisure travel organization delivering unmatched expertise and value through roadside assistance and electric vehicle (EV) resources, along with comprehensive auto repair, insurance, financial, and home security services.
We also provide: convenient DMV services, one-stop travel planning, discounted attraction tickets, passport photos, international driving permits and notary services.
“Our goal is to uphold AAA’s legacy of providing outstanding service, and deepening our commitment to the community.”
-Yude Munoz, SG Branch Manager
December - Our Giving Issue
The holiday season is here, bringing with it the sights, sounds, and traditions that make this time of year so magical. For many of us, the holidays are a chance to recreate the joy we felt as children, whether it’s through the twinkling of festive lights, the aroma of holiday baking or cherished family traditions.
Reflecting on traditions: From time to time I visit my music files to examine a worn copy of "The Christmas Section of the Messiah," an old Schirmer edition that belonged to my father. As I turn its pages, I return to the years of my childhood when residents in my community, hungry for the richness of a "Messiah" experience, formed a chorus. My mother helped form that chorus and played the keyboard accompaniment for rehearsals before the orchestra joined them. It takes me back to when every Christmas season, we attended "Messiah." I'm grateful for the traditions of my youth that nourish my heart and soul. I'm grateful now for a community that values the healing power of music.
This month, we’ve curated a gift guide to help make your holiday shopping easier while supporting local businesses. We’ve also highlighted the best of what southern Utah has to offer during the holidays, from events and entertainment to opportunities for giving back.
While this season is joyful for many, it can also be a difficult time for those who are grieving, lonely, or in need. In the spirit of the season, let’s come together as a community to extend kindness and compassion to those who may be struggling. Whether donating to a local charity, volunteering your time, or simply checking in on a neighbor, every act of generosity makes a difference.
May your holidays be filled with love, peace, and the joy of giving. And, why not take a moment to reflect on the traditions that have been important to you through the years and share them with your loved ones?
Happy Holidays!
JJ ABERNATHY, EDITOR @STGEORGECITYLIFESTYLE
December 2025
PUBLISHER
Joe Morris | joe.morris@citylifestyle.com
CO-PUBLISHER
Holly Morris | holly.morris@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
JJ Abernathy | jj.abernathy@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Holly Morris | holly.morris@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
JJ Abernathy, Arsine Kaloustian, Holly Morris, Joe Morris, Dustin Schofield
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
JJ Abernathy, Wendi Prince Bulkley, Ilene Hacker, Melissa Hill, Britanny Hunter, KelliMade Photos, Heinz Kirchhausen, Noah Liddle, M&R Gallery of Photography, Joe Morris, Holly Pitcher, Stan Plewe, Asher Swan
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
city scene
1: Guest artists Rachel Cox and daughters perform with the Southern Utah Heritage Choir 2: Southern Utah Heritage Choir accompanists Jennifer Redfearn and Karen Kennedy add artistic flair to concert 3: Southern Utah Heritage Choir Conductor Dr. Ken Peterson produces a stunning performance by the choir 4: Members of the Southern Utah Heritage Choir await their concert to begin at the Tabernacle 5: Julie Anderson and Hal Anderson, founder of Soltis Investment Advisors at inauguration of President Smeed 6: Utah Tech First Lady Angela Smeed and President Smeed with Del Parson at portrait unveiling 7: Utah Tech Chief of Staff Henry Walton and Bonnie H. Cordon at President Smeed's inauguration
by JJ Abernathy
Photography
8: Elder Gifford Nielsen; First Lady Angela Smeed and President Smeed; Sue and Jerry Atkin 9: Mary Jane and Chris Guymon following the inauguration of President Smeed at the Eccles 10: Jan and Brad Last at the inauguration of Utah Tech President Shane Smeed. 11: Dr. Del Parson and Elder Gifford Nielsen at inauguration of President Smeed at the Eccles 12: Dr. Paul Abegg, director of University Orchestra, conducts Dvorak's Slavonic Dance No. 8 at inauguration 13: UTU President Smeed, Greg and Doris Croshaw, Doug Allred, Ken Beazer, Homecoming game October 25th 14: Jake and Wendi Bulkley with BreAnne and Sean MaWhinney, Black Desert Bank of Utah Championship
JJ ABERNATHY
JJ ABERNATHY
JJ ABERNATHY
JJ ABERNATHY
JJ ABERNATHY STAN PLEWE
WENDI BULKLEY
15: Pin signing with PGA Pros Kihei Akina & Malosi M Togisala, Bank of Utah Tent 16: Washington County Historical Society honors Randy Wilkinson and Dr. Richard Whitehead with Distinguished Citizen Awards 17: Don Ipson, Kristan Norton-Ipson and son at inauguration of UT President Shane Smeed
your
Behind each of our 200+ City Lifestyle magazines is someone who cares deeply about their community. Someone who connects people, celebrates businesses, and shares the stories that matter most. What if that someone was you?
Or maybe it’s someone you know. If this isn’t the right time for you, but you know someone who could be the perfect fit, we’d love an introduction
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ILENE HACKER
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business monthly
AAA Utah Grand Opening
AAA Utah celebrated the opening of its newest branch in St. George at 250 North Red Cliffs Drive, #39 in the Shoppes at Zion. The AAA Mountain West Group is a membership and full-service leisure travel organization offering convenient DMV services, one-stop travel planning, insurance, home security and notary services. Members receive personalized expert guidance along with TripTiks, discounted attraction tickets, passport photos and international driving permits.
Scan to read more
Brad Last to Work With Utah Tech President Shane Smeed
Vice President of University Advancement at Utah Tech, Brad Last has retired from that position and will work with University President Shane B. Smeed to serve as the university's legislative representative for Utah Tech. Last has had substantial experience in fundraising and donor relations. Prior to his most recent position, he served as a state representative, was senior development officer at then Dixie State University, as well as serving on the Washington County School Board.
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Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory in Business 30 years
Chocolatiers Bill and Shaunna Durante of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory are pleased to introduce many unique items in their store, ranging from caramel apples to 10 different flavors of fudge. Additionally they produce truffles, toffee, caramel bears and the peanut butter bucket, the number one candy/confection, according to U.S. News & World Report. They utilize Guittard chocolate, considered to be the highest grade in the country. Location: 250 N. Red Cliffs Dr., No. 20, St. George.
Photography Courtesy of AAA
St. George Branch
Photography Courtesy of Wendi Prince Bulkley
Photography Courtesy of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
Curated Children’s Boutique
& Gift Shop
ARTICLE BY HOLLY MORRIS | PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED
Publishers’ Picks for the Perfect Presents
SHOPPING LOCAL IS THE HEARTBEAT OF OUR TOWN
1. E-Bike St. George on Mall Drive
Give the gift of adventure with the Magnum Bliss - a stylish, powerful e-bike built for comfort. Perfect for exploring the red rocks or cruising downtown. Mention this article for a special gift w/purchase.
Custom-sized sterling silver and 14K gold chains, fused closed for continuous everyday wear. Bookings for individuals, groups, and gift cards at mydesertgem.com
4.
A cool collection of both new and consigned goods curated and/or designed by Jenny Larsen. Find coffee table books, pillows, home decor and gifts in the Autobiography of Objects section of the store.
Adorable children’s items including these Rylee + Cru pajamas. A European inspired collection of wellmade clothing, shoes and toys that your family will cherish.
Made fresh high quality caramel apples, chocolates and fudge for the last 30 years. Now offering assorted boxed chocolates as well.
3. Mimi and Coco Kids in Santa Clara
5. Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory in the Shoppes at Zion
2. Desert Gem Permanent Jewelry in Downtown St. George
Urban Renewal on the Boulevard
Joe Morris, Photo
Photo Courtesy of AO P h o to CourtesyofRockyMountain ChocolateFactory
PhotoCourtesy of Rylee +Cru
PhotoCourtesy of BrittanyHunter
Providedby KelliMade Photos
Giving In Our Community
Utah Food Bank St. George Feeds Many
Charity begins at home. Those who are fortunate enough to live in Utah are familiar with this notion. Supporting neighbors and friends through the ups and downs of life has become a comforting routine. One organization that has been a staple of community support is the Utah Food Bank.
The Utah Food Bank has spent the last 120 years organizing a network of selfless individuals, organizations and companies to address hunger and the need for other necessities. Instead of leaving these community basic needs to inherently wasteful bureaucracies, the Utah Food Bank turns every $1 donated into $7.23 worth of goods and services. It is an incredibly efficient model that relies on individual and corporate donations for 46% of its total funding.
Says Ginette Bott, Utah Foodbank CEO, “We write grant proposals every year to foundations and government for the balance of the funding, but although they are sometimes successful, they are inconsistent from year to year.” Bott continues, “We rely heavily on the generosity of individuals in the community concerned about the well-being of their own communities.”
Through the charitable food donations of 51 local grocery retailers, the Utah Food Bank collects fresh and healthy food that may otherwise be discarded. It then relies primarily on volunteers to sort and package these donations before redistributing to
those in need. An amazing service opportunity for a family during the holiday season is to schedule a couple of hours volunteering to benefit the community.
Donated time and expertise from large organizations like the Southern Utah Homebuilders Association (SUHBA) have contributed many hours of service. In 2023, SUHBA sent volunteers to paint and upgrade the 15,000 square-foot warehouse expansion in St. George. The need was to serve 415,000 recipients of food in 2024, up from 385,000 the year before. “SUHBA Heroes,” coordinated by Denise Stewart, rally homebuilders like Steve Haddox of American Heritage Homes and service providers like Laura Hirschi from InfoWest to repackage donated food, pet food and even diapers for distribution. It is common for families and children with nutritional needs to be limited by transportation options since food is the first priority of existence. The solution in 2024 was to open a smaller food pantry in neighboring Hurricane, in addition to the ongoing mobile
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOE MORRIS
Early morning food distribution service
distribution efforts in many of the rural towns across southern Utah— from Beaver to Kane County.
Further, several local schools have students whose families rely on the mobile school pantry program that accommodates 19 southern Utah schools on a monthly basis. All students are encouraged to take something home from the truck when it shows up, in order to insure the children and families, who are legitimately in need, are not self-conscious about the process, an empathetically genius system.
The most cherished gift one can give another is peace of mind. When a neighbor does not have the security of knowing where their next meal will come from, nothing else matters. Food is the most basic human need.
This season, consider the act of giving: providing food, time or money to support friends and neighbors through the Utah Food Bank. For more information, go to utahfoodbank.org or call 435.656.9122.
Joe Morris is a 20-year resident of St. George, and was raised in Nevada. He is the father of five, grandfather of three and husband of Holly. Reading, writing, golfing, fly fishing and remodeling their 106-year-old downtown St. George home fill his time. Joe is also the new publisher of St George City Lifestyle.
Laura Hirschi, Denise Stewart, Steve Haddox, Leanna Bergeron
ARTICLE BY JJ ABERNATHY | PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED
‘TIS THE SEASON
Professional performance groups bring on the spirit of the holidays
Photo by Alan Holben
What’s not to love about December holidays in southern Utah? Festivities abound, and the lights, sights and sounds elevate the spirit of the community. Whether you’re attending a school production, a month-long celebration of events at the St. George Tabernacle, or another program at a favorite venue, you’re sure to feel the magic of the season. Here are a few recommendations:
SOUTHWEST SYMPHONY PRESENTS HANDEL’S “MESSIAH” WITH LIETO VOICES AND SPECIAL GUEST SOLOISTS
The Southwest Symphony invites you to celebrate the spirit of the season with one of the most timeless holiday traditions—Handel’s “ Messiah .” Performances will be held Friday, December 5th at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, December 6th at 2:00 p.m. at Desert Hills High School. Few compositions capture the essence of hope, joy, and reverence like “Messiah.” Composed in 1741 by George Frideric Handel, this magnificent oratorio has become one of the most cherished works in classical music and a holiday tradition around the world. From the triumphant “Hallelujah Chorus” to CONTINUED >
Rachel and BJ Cox
Maestro Lucas Darger
the tender beauty of “He Was Despised,” “Messiah” continues to inspire audiences nearly three centuries after its debut.
Southwest Symphony’s performances of Handel’s “Messiah” features Lieto Voices, a premier regional choral ensemble known for their expressive artistry and dynamic sound. They will be joined by an extraordinary cast of soloists: Lisa Seegmiller is a Tony Awardwinning and Grammy-nominated soprano who now resides in St. George. Aubrey Adams-McMillan is an award-winning mezzo-soprano and educator. Thomas Glenn is a Grammy Award-winning tenor, internationally celebrated. Seth Keeton is a distinguished bass-baritone performer and educator with performances spanning opera houses and concert halls across the country.
Adding to the festive experience, pre-show performances will feature the Vista Advanced Orchestra directed by Linda GhidossiDeLuca on December 5th, and the Zion Youth Symphony Orchestra (ZYSO) under the direction of Ed Candland on December 6th.
Sponsored by Snow, Jensen & Reese and Whittaker Travel, this inspiring event promises to uplift hearts and usher in the holiday season with grandeur, grace, and the unifying power of music.
For tickets, visit swsutah.org.
ST GEORGE CHAMBER SINGERS AND
ST
GEORGE CHILDREN’S CHOIR
The St George Chamber Singers and St George Children’s Choir join together this Christmas season for their 8th annual
Rachel Robertson Cox conducts St. George Children's Choir.
Whether you’re attending a Christmas school production, a month-long celebration of events at the St. George Tabernacle, or another program at a favorite venue, you’re sure to feel the magic of the season.”
performance of “Christmas in the Tabernacle” on Friday, December 5th at 7 p.m. This free concert will feature the 70-voice St George Children’s Choir singing traditional holiday favorites including “Sleigh Ride” and “In the Bleak Midwinter,” as well as Faure’s beautiful “Pie Jesu.” The St George Children’s Choir is a classical children’s choir under the direction of BJ and Rachel Cox. Last season the children’s choir was invited to tour New York City and perform in Carnegie Hall with renowned conductor Andre Thomas. This season they will be hosting a children’s choir festival in St George for children’s choirs across the United States!
The St George Chamber Singers are southern Utah’s premier vocal chamber choir. An ensemble of accomplished vocalists,
Paul Weins, Conductor of St George Chamber Singers
Photo courtesy of Rachel Robertson Cox
they are raising the standard for choral singing and musicianship in the Desert Southwest. Under the direction of conductor Paul Wiens, The St George Chamber Singers will feature a collection of holiday classics with harp and oboe, as well as Eric Whitacre’s beautiful nativity piece, “Lux Aurumque.”
In addition to their traditional Christmas repertoire, the Chamber Singers and Children’s Choir will also perform two newly commissioned workslocal composer, Tami Creamer’s gorgeous new setting of “Away in a Manger” as well as the premier of a brand new choral work, “The Arrow and the Song” written for the choirs by composer Grace Brigham.
Come join this feast of song in celebration of the Christmas season!
ST. GEORGE MUSICAL THEATER
For fans of local community theater, St. George Musical Theater has provided a bedrock of consistent, quality entertainment for the past 25 years. That tradition continues with their upcoming production of “Christmas Story the Musical,” the musical adaptation of the endearing 1983 movie classic of the same name.
Set in Indiana in the 1940s, the musical features nearly all the familiar storylines of the film, including the iconic Red Ryder BB gun and the famous fishnet stocking
Photo Courtesy of St. George Musical Theater
Photo courtesy of St. George Musical Theater
leg lamp, plus the added music composed by award winning team of Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (“Dear Evan Hansen,” “La La Land,” “Greatest Showman”).
Adam Mast returns as director, having directed the musical seven years ago at its southern Utah debut, also produced by St. George Musical Theater. Known locally as a film critic for over two decades, Mast adores the material and couldn’t wait to direct again.
“Not all great films translate well to the stage, but this one hits the proverbial nail on the head,” says Mast.
Bruce Bennett, who has produced over 75 productions for SGMT the past 11 years, also notes the poignant timing of this production—“This will be our last holiday-themed production in the Opera House, which has been our home for many years.” Bennett refers to SGMT’s 2026 transition to the new 400-seat theatre-in-the-round under construction on South Main Street. He says, “I daresay even those who are not huge fans of the film will love the music, and especially the heart of this production, and we promise not to shoot your eye out.”
“Christmas Story” runs November 13th through December 20th, Wed. through Sat. with Sat. matinees at the historic Opera House, 212 N. Main St., St. George. Tickets are $35 available at sgmt.org or by calling 435.628.8755. Also, donations for the new theater are welcomed.
Bruce Bennett
Winter Simmer Magic
ARTICLE BY ARSINE KALOUSTIAN
FILL YOUR HOME WITH THE COZY SCENTS OF TART CRANBERRIES, BRIGHT CITRUS, AND WARMING SPICES
Creating stovetop potpourri is a delightful way to indulge in the scents of the festive season. This Cranberry Orange Potpourri combines sparkling notes of fresh citrus and cranberries with nostalgic spices and woodsy herbs to create a welcoming atmosphere.
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1 orange, sliced
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 teaspoon whole cloves
• 3 star anise
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 2-3 cups water (plus more as needed)
INSTRUCTIONS:
Combine cranberries, sliced orange, cinnamon sticks, cloves, star anise, and rosemary in a pot. Add 2-3 cups of water, ensuring the ingredients are submerged. Simmer on low heat, allowing the aromas to release. Check the water level, adding more as needed to prevent drying out. Simmer for several hours to fill your home with the scents of the season.
This potpourri is perfect for setting the holiday mood, whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or simply want your home to smell warm and inviting.
Nutcracker--a Ballet for All Ages
ARTICLE BY JJ ABERNATHY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEIDI PITCHER AND HEINZ KIRCHHAUSEN
Say “Nutcracker” or “Westside Studio of the Performing Arts” and the name Sheila Bailey immediately comes to mind. Her story is worth telling, for she began studying dance in St. George with Diane Hafen, and was soon studying at Southern Utah University on scholarship and dancing with the Burch Mann’s American Folk Ballet. Climbing to new heights, Sheila became a soloist with the Arizona Ballet Theatre of Tucson, where her teaching career continued at the Stephanie Stigers School of Ballet. And then she was
off to Chicago, where she taught all forms of dance with the University of Illinois. Through the Chicago National Association of Dance Teachers, one may say Sheila has continued her dance education by giving back to the community where her passion for dance was ignited.
Sheila is now the director and producer of the Nutcracker Ballet, which she has contributed to the southern Utah community and has impacted numerous generations of dancers since the year 2000.
The magic of the Nutcracker: a holiday tradition of music, dance and enchantment
As chair of the nonprofit Nutcracker Foundation, she has established scenes after those individuals who have inspired her, beginning with Mr. William F. Christensen. Each year she dedicates Nutcracker productions to him, and also to Maurice Abravanel, referring to them respectively, the Mr. Ballet and Mr. Music of Utah.
As founder, director and an instructor at Westside Studio, Sheila’s grace and charm are felt by all. Her influence has not only been felt here in southern Utah, but throughout the United States.
Sheila has been heard on more than one occasion to say words to the effect, “It doesn’t feel like Christmas without a production of the Nutcracker.” And she’s definitely right!
About Westside Studio of Performing Arts
The faculty of Westside Studio of Performing Arts is comprised of highly qualified, professional and caring teachers. They draw upon their past dance training and professional experience, as well as continuing to further their own education to increase their knowledge in the professional dance industry. They strive to provide the best possible quality dance training in the St. George area. The facility is located at 170 N. 400 E. in St. George.
Westside Studio offers us three ways to support their Nutcracker production. One way is through advertising in their Nutcracker playbill. Secondly, generous corporate sponsorships and finally through a general personal donation. They are careful, appreciative stewards of your support.
Each Westside Studio production includes around a hundred students and also a number of professional guests. This year the Sugar Plum Fairy will be Sophie Silnicki, with Shane Ohmer as the Cavalier. Shane Hecksel is the King Rat. Shane grew up dancing at the studio and now comes from Savannah, Georgia to participate in the production and support the performances. The Russian is played by Devin Nielson, who grew up in Washington City, and lives in New York and St. George!
The Nutcracker 2025 productions are scheduled for December 11th, 12th, and 13th at 7:30 p.m. Matinee showings are at 2:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. All performances are held at Desert Hills High School Auditorium, located at 828 Desert Hills Dr., E., St. George. See you there!
Sheila Bailey, Founder and Director of Westside Studio of the Performing Arts
Celebrate the season with a trio inspiring toasts and gatherings. Seahive is brushed with local honey and Redmond salt. It lends a sweet-savory harmony from the very first taste. Barely Buzzed, rubbed with espresso and lavender, o ers a bold aromatic rind unfolding into layers of cream and nu iness. Finally, the Apple Walnut Smoked delivers a whisper of campfire and orchard.
Together, they create a tableau of flavor destined for the most festive tables. When li ed by the e ervescence of Champagne, honeyed, roasted, and smoky notes are illuminated by bubbles that dance across your palate.
SAVVY HOLIDAY SPENDING
KEEPING FINANCES UNDER CONTROL DURING THE HOLIDAYS
ARTICLE BY DUSTIN SCHOFIELD
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
MELISSA HILL PHOTOGRAPHY
The holiday season brings joy, celebration, and often, financial stress. Between gifts, travel, and festive gatherings, it’s easy to let spending spiral. I’ve learned over the years that the excitement of the season can quickly fade if January arrives with financial regret. The key is finding balance between generosity, responsibility, and enjoying the holidays without compromising your financial peace of mind.
Below are a few ways to better enjoy the holidays while keeping your finances in check:
ESTABLISH A DEFINED BUDGET
Start by creating a realistic budget. Determine how much you can afford to spend overall; then divide it into categories such as gifts, entertainment, travel and food. Having a clear limit for each helps prevent impulse purchases and ensures your spending aligns with your income.
FOCUS ON MEANINGFUL, NOT EXTRAVAGANT, GIVING
Staying within budget does not mean sacrificing generosity. Instead, prioritize thoughtful, meaningful gestures over expensive items. Personalized gifts, shared experiences, or charitable donations in a loved one’s name often create lasting memories without exceeding financial limits.
PLAN PURCHASES IN ADVANCE
Advance planning helps prevent overspending. Begin shopping early to take advantage of sales and to avoid the inflated costs of last-minute purchases. Spreading expenses across several pay periods can also make holiday costs more manageable and reduce financial stress.
USE CREDIT STRATEGICALLY
While credit cards can offer rewards and convenience, they require careful management. Avoid carrying balances into the new year, as interest charges can negate any benefits earned. Whenever possible, pay off balances immediately and consider using one primary card for easy tracking.
PREPARE FOR FUTURE HOLIDAYS
Once the season concludes, take time to review how closely your spending aligned with your plan. Use these insights to set aside a small monthly amount for the next holiday season. Even modest, consistent savings can provide a meaningful cushion for future expenses.
“Maintaining financial discipline during the holidays not only protects your budget but also promotes peace of mind.”
Maintaining financial discipline during the holidays not only protects your budget but also promotes peace of mind. With thoughtful preparation, you can focus less on spending —and more on celebrating with those who matter most.
Dustin Schofield serves as managing partner of Schofield Wealth Management located at 1079 E. Riverside Dr., Ste. 102, St. George Tel. 435.674.3601 or schofieldwm.com
Dustin Schofield
BREAKFAST HOLIDAY
The holidays are filled with family gatherings. Enjoy these easy, make-ahead recipes to simplify your holiday breakfast; they are sure to impress your guests.
CROISSANT LEMON BERRY DELIGHT
Casserole Ingredients:
• 6 large croissants (from the bakery) sliced into cubes
• 3 cups mixed berries
• 1 package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 5 eggs at room temperature
• 2 cups half and half at room temperature
• ¾ tablespoon vanilla extract
• ¾ tablespoon lemon juice
Lemon Glaze Ingredients:
• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 tablespoon butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Preheat oven to 350 degrees and toast the cubed croissants on a baking dish for 10 minutes. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add eggs, half and half, lemon juice and vanilla and mix until smooth. Place the toasted croissants into a greased 9 x 13 pan and layer with 1 ½ cups berries. Pour custard mix on top and then add the remaining berries on top. Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and bake, covered, for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes. Set aside and make glaze by adding all ingredients to a bowl and mixing until smooth. Drizzle over the casserole and sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired.
HEARTY BREAKFAST CASSEROLE
Ingredients:
• 8 eggs
• 2-3 cups torn bread pieces
• 3 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 pound breakfast sausage, browned
• 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 cups shredded cheese of choice
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon rosemary
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Spray 9 x 13 pan with cooking spray. Layer torn bread pieces on the bottom of the pan to cover completely. Sprinkle 1 cup cheese over the bread. Whisk eggs and heavy whipping cream and red pepper flakes salt and pepper. Pour mixture into the baking dish. Add bacon and sausage on top of egg mixture. Top with remaining cheese and sprinkle with rosemary and thyme. Bake at 350 for 35 minutes or until the center is done.
MONKEY BREAD
Ingredients:
• 18-20 Rhodes white frozen rolls
• 1 regular box of cook and serve butterscotch pudding
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• 6 tablespoons butter, melted
• ¾ teaspoons cinnamon
• ½ cup brown sugar
Instructions:
Grease a bundt pan with non-stick cooking spray. Sprinkle chopped pecans around the bottom of the bundt pan. Next, place frozen rolls in the pan, evenly spreading them out. Sprinkle the rolls with the dry pudding mix. Melt butter in a separate container, and add cinnamon and brown sugar and stir. Pour butter and sugar mixture over the rolls. Cover with saran wrap that is sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Place in a cool oven overnight with the light off. Bake the next morning at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Let stand for 5 minutes and then turn the bundt pan over onto a serving plate and gently pry out of the pan, allowing time for the pecans and toppings to drip on top. Enjoy!
EVERY SATURDAY YEAR ROUND
Washington Farmers Market
Veterans Park, 75 E Telegraph Street, Washington | 10:00 AM
Come explore fresh produce, handmade goods, delicious treats and a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home. Founded by local vendors Harry and Summer to bring warmth, fun and a strong sense of community- a space where families connect, friendships grow and everyone feels appreciated.
THROUGH DECEMBER 20TH
Elf the Musical at Tuacahn
Indoor Hafen Theatre
The hilarious and heartwarming tale of Buddy, a young orphan whose life is changed forever when he mistakenly crawls into Santa's sack of toys one Christmas Eve. Raised by elves at the North Pole, Buddy's enormous size and limited toy-making abilities make him realize he must embark on a journey where he discovers the true meaning of Christmas. Visit tuacahn.org
THROUGH DECEMBER 20TH
A Christmas Carol - A New Musical
The Electric Theater
Encore! presents Southern Utah's newest holiday tradition at the Electric Theater, starring some of the best performers in St. George. An incredible and innovative celebration of Dickens classic work, Guter and Record's inventive adaptation captures the traditional Carol and electrifies it with the 'here and now', says Managing Director Utah Shakespearean Festival- Michael Bahr. Visit encorepa.org/tickets for more info.
DECEMBER 6TH
Light the Night at SGMA
St. George Museum of Art
Bring in the season at this community event featuring free hot chocolate, donuts, crafting activities and live music from 5-8 pm. Create your own luminary and be among the first visitors to see the new Winter Exhibition inside the museum! Visit stgeorgemoa.com for more details.
DECEMBER 11TH, 12TH AND 13TH
Westside Studio presents- The Nutcracker
Desert Hills High School Theater
The classic Nutcracker ballet that you know and love with professional guests...Sophie Silnicki as the Sugar Plum, Shane Ohmer as Cavalier, Devin Nielsen as Russian, Troy McGee as Drosselmeyer and our very own Shane Hecksel as the King Rat. Evening shows start at 7:30 p.m. with 2:30 p.m. matinees on Friday and Saturday. Tickets at westsidestudio.org/tickets
DECEMBER 16TH
The Electric Film Series
The Electric Theater, 68 E Tabernacle Street, St. George | 6:00 PM
The historic Electric Theater hosts a FREE screening of a noteworthy film from the past including introductory and post screening discussions with a special guest. December brings you 'A Christmas Story' from 1983. Presented by the Film and Media Alliance of Southern Utah. For more information go to FMASU.com