St George, UT March 2026

Welcome to our home edition of St. George City Lifestyle.

Welcome to Spring and welcome to our Home and Design issue.

Are you ready? Take a deep breath because we guarantee that you will be on the go all month long.  There is so much to see here in St. George with hiking, golf, concerts and festivals. The best part is, that at the end of the day we can enjoy the comforts of our own homes. Author Wendy Wunder writes, “The magic thing about home is that it feels good to leave, and it feels even better to come back.”  Whether your home base is a condo, rambler, apartment or a mini-mansion, you begin and end each day there. Your home is your sanctuary of comfort, functionality and it goes beyond the aesthetics, it reflects your personal story.

In this issue of St. George City Lifestyle we have three articles that will help you maintain your home against the extreme conditions we experience here.

If your home has seen a few summers, A+ Garage Doors answers your questions for keeping your garage in good working order.

HedgeHog Electric gives practical advice for our growing demand on the electrical systems we have in our homes.

If you are like me and hope for a good spring cleaning this March, look for the article from Merry Maids to help you maintain all of that hard work.

Don’t forget to check our history article about Atkinville: Desert Oasis.  If your home is in SunRiver, you might enjoy learning more about the community's origins.

It is a beautiful time of year here in St. George and most of the world knows it.  People travel from all over to enjoy out door living and events that are right in our own backyard.  While the traffic may be a little intimidating, with careful timing and a little bit of good luck you can have a fun filled March.

See you on the trails,

RACHEL KIDMAN, EDITOR

March 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

Jake Bright, Angela Broockerd, River Harrison, Kelly Hendrix, Rachel Kidman, Tracee McDonald, Park City Blind and Design

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

BMA Photography, Jared Durrant, Dalli Holyoak, Dan Jenkins, Janie Jones, Rachel Kidman, M. Lee Photo, Tracee McDonald, Holly Morris, Park City Blind and Design, Amanda Proudfit, Truss Media, Bryan Uhri

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 Learn

Let’s redefine cold-season pairing. Ushering in a welcome warmth this year, not from the weather, but from a pairing that awakens the palate. When IG Winery’s Riesling meets Beehive’s Cajun-rubbed Cheddar, winter’s chill gives way to a vivid interplay of heat and freshness. A pairing set to flip the season on its finish.

IG Winery’s Riesling is bright with peach, citrus, and crisp green apple. It finds a striking counterpoint in Beehive’s Cajun-rubbed Cheddar. The wine’s taut acidity li s the cheese’s bu ery, garlicky richness, while its cool, mineral finish tempers the gentle cayenne heat along the rind. Together, they create a refined balance of spice and crispness that sharpens flavor without overwhelming the palate.

MARCH 2026

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: The Southern Utah Heritage Choir performing their "O Holy Night" Christmas Concert at the Tabernacle 2: Congratulations to our very own St. George local, Dalli Holyoak, Miss Rodeo Utah 2026 3: Robert Judd, Mayor Jimmie B. Hughes, Jeanmarie Anderson, Mellissa Houston, Edward Snow, Scott McGregor 4: Elder Steven E. Snow, Naghi Zeenati, Mayor Jimmie B. Hughes, John Willis and David Cordero 5: Root beer floats served at City of St. George Heritage Celebration 6: Balloons Rising over Staheli Family Farm for the Up & Away Balloon Festival 7: Publisher Joe Morris with River Harrison of HedgeHog Electric/Solar at the Southern Utah Home Show

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business monthly

Essence Ring Update on Shark Tank

The wellness brand known for its innovative Essence Ring- a discreet, wearable nasal diffuser designed for personal aromatherapy- announced the grand opening of its new warehouse and fulfillment center in Washington. They're working with Daymond John, who serves as their supporting Shark Tank 'shark' and strategic mentor to the brand. His guidance has helped Essence refine its growth strategy while staying true to its values- mindfulness, performance, and subtle luxury. For more information, visit www.essencering.com

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St. George City Hall Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Celebration

Mayor Jimmie B. Hughes cuts the ribbon for the opening of St. George's City Hall. Mayor Hughes, "We have never been shy and we've always been proud to recognize our heritage and pioneer history...here in St. George, our dreams of the future always match and respect the legacy of our past." Naghi Zeenati and John R. Willis gave remarks with a dedicatory prayer offered by Elder Steven E. Snow.

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It's Good to be a Business in Utah

St. George was ranked as the #1 place to live in Utah by Travel + Leisure! Furthermore, Utah was ranked as the second best state to start a business, according to a recent study by WalletHub, only behind Florida. The study was based on business environment, business costs and access to resources, financial accessibility and growth.

MID-CENTURY WARMTH, REIMAGINED

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAN JENKINS, AMANDA PROUDFIT

There’s a certain moment when a house stops feeling new and starts feeling like home. It isn’t marked by square footage or finishes alone. It is something quieter, more emotional. In this home, designer Kate Manz set out to do exactly that: give a newly built home a heartbeat and a soul.

Rather than treating the house as one sweeping statement, she approached each room as its own story, layered with meaning, memory, and texture. The result is a home that feels collected, personal, and deeply lived-in.

“Tackling each space and room as its own story and concept is how to make a new space feel personal,” Manz explains. “But bringing it all together cohesively is always the challenge.”

Her solution? Warmth, intention, and a strong belief in the power of people. In new builds it can take years for a home to shed its newness. For this project, the goal was to fast-track that sense of belonging by layering in pieces with history and heart. Vintage market finds, local artists, and meaningful objects play a starring role throughout the home.

“My love for design goes hand in hand with the people and stories that bring it to life,” she says. “I absolutely love seeing the evolution from concept to completion and all the elements and people that help bring those ideas to reality.”

That philosophy becomes especially important in the home’s expansive open-concept living area, where scale could easily overpower intimacy.

THE OPEN CONCEPT, REIMAGINED

The main living space is defined by bringing the outside in with sweeping outdoor views and generous proportions. Rather than fighting that openness, embrace it.

“The big open concept room really highlights the expansive outdoor views,” she says, “but making intimate spaces within that open room was really important.”

A layered niche wall, created in collaboration with the interior architect Nick Flower, brings both structure and softness to the room. It introduces texture, depth, and a place for unique objects and family heirlooms to live, turning negative space into a personal gallery.

MATERIALS:

Cole

DESIGN TAKEAWAY:

In large rooms, architectural details like niches, built-ins, or material changes can create visual rhythm while giving meaningful objects a true home.

ENTRYWAY: A WARM WELCOME

The entryway sets the tone with a simple but powerful goal: Welcome to my home.

Natural stone underfoot grounds the space, while a soft vintage rug and living greenery immediately soften the experience. Art with personal meaning invites guests to linger rather than rush through.

MATERIALS:

DESIGN TAKEAWAY:

An entryway doesn’t need to be loud to be memorable. Combine tactile materials with one or two meaningful elements to create an instant emotional connection.

POWDER BATH: SMALL ROOM, BOLD SPIRIT

If there’s one place Manz encourages clients to take risks, it’s the powder room. Here, she leaned into terracotta earth tones, layering textures and tile sizes for visual interest and warmth. Patterned and solid tiles work together, while textured wall coverings and a sculptural stone sink elevate the space from functional to delightful.

MATERIALS:

Particular Tile in Satin Terracotta and Vanilla Bean, Arté Wallcovering Shards in Brick Red, Red travertine sink, Rachel Donath chunky mirror, Playful art work by Olivia Fields

DESIGN TAKEAWAY:

Small spaces are ideal for experimentation. Mix patterns, finishes, and textures within a tight color family to create depth without overwhelm.

LOUNGE: A STUDY IN CALM AND DEPTH

Designed as a counterpoint to the openness of the main living area, the lounge is a cocoon, both peaceful, layered, and deeply versatile. It’s a place for reading, movie nights and slow mornings. Rich tones and varied textures do the heavy lifting here, creating depth without heaviness. Soft lighting and custom upholstery make the room feel both intentional and effortless.

MATERIALS:

Virginia Sin pendant light, In Common With sconce, Arté Oblong wall covering in Ochre, Particular Tile in Vapor, Custom sage velvet sofa, Plush Vintage Moroccan rug

DESIGN TAKEAWAY:

When a room serves many purposes, let texture and tone create cohesion. A restrained palette with varied finishes keeps the space flexible and serene.

At its core, this home is a reminder that design isn’t about perfection, but rather it’s about feeling. By treating each room as its own narrative while weaving in warmth, history, and human connection, a space was created that already feels loved.

PROJECT CREDITS Builder - Buildwell Architect and

Designer - Kate Manz

Is

Your Home Ready for This?

ARTICLE BY RIVER HARRISON OF HEDGEHOG ELECTRIC PHOTOGRAPHY BY JARED DURRANT How Southern Utah Homeowners are Rethinking Electrical Self-Reliance

Most homes in St. George simply weren’t built for the way we live today. Electrical panels originally sized decades ago now support EV chargers, home offices, smart systems, and even medical equipment…All the while, long and very hot summers push air conditioners to their limits.

With utility rates rising, grid demand increasing, and even brief outages having bigger impacts, many homeowners are asking the same question: Will my electrical system hold up when I need it most?

SUMMER HEAT EXPOSES THE WEAK SPOTS

St. George summers can be tough on your home’s electrical system. As air conditioners run longer and harder, hidden issues often surface. Like aging breakers, overloaded panels, or systems running without modern protections.

One of the most overlooked safeguards is whole-home surge protection. While lightning often gets the blame, most power surges come from everyday utility switching, nearby construction, or large appliances cycling on and off. Over time, these small voltage spikes quietly damage air conditioning systems, electronics, and appliances.

Utah now requires whole-home surge protection in all new construction, and it’s a smart upgrade for older homes too. Installed at the electrical panel, it protects every circuit, helping prevent costly failures during peak summer usage.

KEEPING THE POWER ON

A power outage is never fun. Especially during a St. George heat wave! For some families, though, it can be more serious, especially for those relying on life-sustaining medical equipment like oxygen concentrators.

Automatic standby generators can restore power within seconds, keeping cooling systems, refrigeration, and medical devices running smoothly. For peace of mind, some homeowners pair this with battery-backed solar systems, which allow essential circuits to keep working even during longer outages.

THE LITTLE THINGS MATTER TOO

Being prepared isn’t just about big systems. Small details make a big difference.

Smoke detectors should be properly installed and tested. Ceiling fans and lighting need to be safely mounted and balanced. Electrical panels, breakers, and wiring benefit from regular checkups as your energy needs change.

That’s where an electrical service membership can help. It gives you a licensed electrician for routine maintenance and

long-term planning—whether that’s installing a ceiling fan, testing smoke detectors, adding circuits, or preparing your home for future upgrades.

HedgeHog Electric & Solar’s membership includes a free annual inspection, priority scheduling, and ongoing support. Many homeowners describe it as having an “electrician in their pocket.”

READY FOR ANYTHING

Nobody’s home is unprepared on purpose, but they do outgrow their original systems. With modern surge protection, reliable backup power, and professional oversight, homeowners can feel ready for whatever Southern Utah summers throw their way!

HedgeHog Electric & Solar is a locally owned electrical company serving homeowners across Southern Utah. From everyday projects like installing lights, ceiling fans, and smoke detectors to whole-home surge protection, standby generators, and ongoing electrical maintenance, the team helps homeowners keep their homes safe, comfortable, and reliable year-round. Many locals recognize HedgeHog from its annual Christmas Light Map or familiar radio jingle. When you do service your electrical system, “Service it Right!” with Hedgehog Electric.

If you have a question about your home’s electrical system— or just want a trusted professional to take a look—you can call HedgeHog Electric & Solar to speak with a friendly, knowledgeable team member at (435) 275-2316.

Design That Feels Like Home

The Parade of Homes always leaves you with that one lingering feeling: “I want my home to feel like that.” The rooms that stand out aren’t always the biggest or the most expensive. They’re the ones that feel bright, calm and thoughtfully designed. A lot of that comes down to one simple element: light.

The homes in the Parade are designed to feel open and airy, and a big part of that is how they control natural light. The right window treatments don’t just block or allow light — they shape it. They help a room feel more polished, more intentional, and more comfortable. Here’s what we noticed and how you can bring that same look into your home.

THE BEST PARADE HOMES USE LIGHT, NOT HARSH SUN

Parade homes often use soft, filtered light to create a welcoming glow. It’s bright but not glaring. It’s warm but not overpowering. That’s why light-filtering shades and sheer drapery are so popular in high-end homes. They let light in while keeping the room feeling calm and comfortable — the kind of space you want to live in every day.

WINDOW TREATMENTS ARE PART OF THE ARCHITECTURE

Luxury homes don’t treat window coverings as an afterthought. They’re built into the design. The right treatment complements the room’s lines and highlights the windows as a feature, not a distraction. Streamlined roller shades, tailored blinds or woven textures create a clean, modern look that feels intentional and makes the room feel more finished.

LAYERED LIGHT IS A PARADE FAVORITE

One of the most common design choices in Parade homes is layered window treatments. A sheer layer keeps the room bright during the day, while a heavier option adds privacy and coziness at night. It’s a small detail that makes a home feel designed, not decorated.

“The right window treatments don’t just block or allow light — they shape it.”

LUXURY IS IN THE DETAILS

The homes that feel truly high-end are the ones where everything is carefully considered, including installation. At Park City Blind & Design, our designers work with you to create a custom solution that fits your home’s style and architecture. We offer premium materials and high-end brands, and our installation is completed with precision and care. For modern convenience, we also provide motorized and automated options, so you can control light and privacy with the touch of a button.

BRING THE PARADE LOOK HOME

If the Parade of Homes left you inspired, start with your windows. Updating treatments is one of the easiest ways to make your home feel brighter, cleaner and more intentional without a major renovation. Let the light in, shape it, and turn your house into a home. Visit ParkCityBlind.com for more inspiration.

ATKINVILLE: DESERT OASIS

Known as SunRiver today, here is the interesting history of the Atkinville settlement

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRACEE MCDONALD

Today, St. George has become a city with over 100,000 people, and with the sun shining year round it is a hot spot for tourists, as well as retirees. However, the city had a humble beginning of hard working settlers doing their best to tame the desert. One of its early settlements was known as Atkinville, and was located where the community of SunRiver is today.

“...Atkinville would become “Dixie’s Oasis”. A favored spot for St. George residents to have parties and picnics.”

Atkinville was settled by William and Rachel Atkin in 1877. The couple left Liverpool, England in 1855 for the U.S. after joining the LDS church, and continued on to Salt Lake City in 1859. In 1868 Brigham Young called 155 men and their families to settle in Southern Utah, including William and Rachel.  After years of serving their community and church through work on the LDS Tabernacle and Temple, the Atkins moved eight miles south of St. George onto 160 acres.

Once William and Rachel reached their new desert land they went to work building a home. William, being a skilled stone mason, built a two story home made of limestone. The ground floor consisted of a living room, kitchen, another room called the little kitchen, and the Wilford Woodruff room. Nicknamed for the LDS church leader who often stayed with the Atkin family. The 2nd floor had 3 bedrooms and a deck with a railing across the front of the home.

Three family homes were built on their land, which became known as Atkinville.

After their home was built, William continued working the land. He dammed a stream from the Virgin River to create an 8 foot deep 15 acre pond. Carp were placed in the pond and chub from the river became a source of food for the family. Drinking water was hauled from St. George in barrels and water for the home was brought from the Virgin River about a mile from their home. Swings were placed between the cottonwood trees for entertainment. To the people of St. George, Atkinville would become “Dixie’s Oasis”. A favored spot for St. George residents to have parties and picnics.

William created an ice cache at “Dixie’s Oasis” by carving a cave in a cliff by the pond where he stored blocks of ice that he cut from his pond. A description of the ice house from William and Rachel’s grandson

in Sagebrush and Wildflowers A Legacy of William Atkin and Lula Palmer Atkin , states: “The ice house was made of straw and willows. The walls were big cedar posts and about three feet apart between the little walls, then tamped in straw. The ice was put in there in big solid chunks, then covered up with straw. Then when we got it, we’d just open it up and take a bar and pry them chunks of ice out just like we put them in.”

St. George residents bought the Atkin ice to make ice cream and ice cold lemonade, which would become a favorite at the 4th and 24th of July celebrations.

In 1890 Rachel and William moved back to St. George, and in 1906 a flood destroyed most of what was once Atkinville- today nothing remains of the settlement. However, there is a replica of Rachel and William’s Atkinville home at This is the Place Heritage Park in Salt Lake and a historical marker has been placed near the current SunRiver Community Clubhouse. Recently, a new park named Atkinville Wash Park in the SunRiver community has been constructed in memory of the early settlement.

Atkinville was a vacation spot for many in the early years of St. George where families would gather. Therefore, it is fitting that a park now stands where family and friends can gather, play games, picnic, eat ice cream, and make memories almost 150 years later.  Historic Atkinville is still a place where all can take refuge from the world, just as the Atkin family provided for so many, long ago.

Hurricane Location

SPRING ARRIVES IN STYLE

Explore new spring arrivals featuring elevated statement pieces, formal Easter looks for boys and girls alike, and timeless designs for special celebrations. From polished outfits perfect for Easter Sunday to charming Easter basket stuffers and thoughtful gifts, our curated collection makes the season extra special. Visit us this month to find gifts made to be remembered.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

GATHER AT THE TABLE

Setting time aside to gather as a family around the dinner table is a great way to connect without the distractions from the things that pull us away from the ones we love. Both the Maple Harvest Salad and Beignets can be prepared in advance for the busy families on the go. Enjoy!

maple harvest salad

INGREDIENTS Serves 1

• 1 portion Honey Roasted Cauliflower (3 oz.)

• 2 oz. Pomegranate seeds

• 3 oz. chopped Kale

• 2 oz. thinly sliced Brussel Sprouts

• 5 oz. Maple Molasses Dressing

DIRECTIONS

Toss all the ingredients, aside from the pomegranate seeds, into a large mixing bowl. Pour in the maple molasses dressing and lightly toss everything together, until everything has been coated in the dressing. Place on the middle of a plate, in a mound, sprinkle the pomegranate seeds over the salad.

INGREDIENTS

Honey Roasted Cauliflower (Yields 5 - 6 portions)

• 1 lb. of Cauliflower Florets

• 2 oz. Salt

• .5 oz. Black Pepper

• 8 oz. Honey

• 8 oz. Oil

DIRECTIONS

Chop cauliflower into small floret pieces. Combine everything together and toss until the cauliflower is evenly coated, roast in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 mins.

INGREDIENTS

Maple Molasses Dressing (Yields 1 quart, 8 servings)

• 4.5 oz. Apple Cider Vinegar

• 3 oz. Maple Syrup

• 3 oz. Molasses

• 0.5 oz. Mustard

• 11.5 oz. Soy Milk

• 10.5 oz. Olive Oil

chicken parmesan

INGREDIENTS

• Chicken Breast

• Spaghetti

• Marinara Sauce

• Fresh Mozzarella slices

• Panko Breading

DIRECTIONS

Bread the chicken breast in the panko breading, then fry at 350 degrees F, until the internal temperature reaches about 170 Degrees F. In the meantime, slowly reheat the cooked spaghetti in the marinara sauce, once hot, set aside. After the chicken breast reaches the 170 degrees internal temp, spread the mozzarella onto the chicken breast and melt in the oven for about 3-5 mins. Twist the spaghetti into a nest, and place onto the plate. and place the chicken breast over the top of the pasta.

INGREDIENTS

Marinara Sauce (yields 8 - 10 servings)

• 1 #10 Can Crushed Tomatoes

• 1 lb. Onions, Diced

• 1/2 lb. Carrots, Diced

• 1/2 lb. Celery, Diced

• 1 oz. Garlic Cloves

• 1/2 oz. Dried Basil

• 2 Bay Leafs

• 500 ml Red Wine

• 4 oz. Water

• 2 oz. Sugar

• 4 oz. Oil

• 1/2 oz. Dried Oregano

• 2 grams Crushed Red Pepper

• 1/2 lb. Parm Cheese

• 1/2 oz. Black Pepper

• 8 oz. Tomato Paste

DIRECTIONS

In a large stock pot, preheat the oil until it reaches the smoking point. Add the diced vegetables and begin to sweat on high heat, once translucent, add the sugar and allow vegetables to brown and caramelize. Once Caramelized, add tomato paste and allow to brown. Deglaze with the red wine and reduce by half. Add canned tomatoes, spices and herbs, and the water. Allow to simmer over medium heat for about 1-2 hours. Transfer to a blender and blend on high speed until fully mixed, manually whisk in the parm cheese.

beignets

INGREDIENTS

• 16 oz. Butter

• 32 oz. Water

• 32 oz. Flour

• 16 Eggs

• pinch Salt

• pinch Sugar

DIRECTIONS

Bring the butter and water to a boil, incorporate the flour, salt, and sugar and fold over until the batter forms into a cohesive ball, with no patches of dry flour. Allow to cool for about 10 mins before throwing the batter into a stand mixer. With the paddle attachment slowly incorporate the eggs, one at a time, until the batter has absorbed all the eggs. Scoop into one ounce balls and fry in preheated oil at 325 degrees F, rotating the beignets for about 15 mins. Allow to cool and let the steam hollow out the inside of the beignets. Stuff with your choice of filling and sprinkle with powdered sugar and place on to a plate.

INGREDIENTS

Chocolate MousseYields 5 - 6 servings

• 1-8 oz. Vanilla Pudding Mix

• 8 oz. Heavy Cream

• 32 oz. Milk

• 12 oz. Dark Chocolate

• 1/2 oz. Vanilla Extract

• 8 oz. Cool Whip

• 16 oz. Dark Cocoa Powder

DIRECTIONS

1. Melt the dark chocolate into the heavy cream over a double boiler on the stovetop over medium high heat. Once mixed, allow 10 minutes to cool.

2. Meanwhile, mix all other ingredients together using a stand mixer until well combined. Slowly incorporate the melted dark chocolate/heavy cream mixture until well combined. Using a spatula, place chocolate mousse into a piping bag.

ARTICLE BY JAKE BRIGHT, A+ GARAGE DOORS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

GARAGE DOOR QUESTIONS Answered

LIVING HERE MEANS ENDURING INTENSE DESERT HEAT. A WELL-MAINTAINED GARAGE DOOR PROTECTS YOUR HOME WHILE BOOSTING CURB APPEAL.

What if my sensors are out of alignment?

First, check for any debris, spiderwebs, leaves, dirt etc. blocking the photo eye of the sensors. Second, there’s a wingnut on both sensors that can be loosened to provide slight movement of the sensors enabling proper alignment. Both lights on the sensors must be solid and not flashing, this will be an indication of a solid connection/alignment.

Why should I never try to fix my own garage door?

There are a lot of mechanical moving parts that are under heavy tension. It is recommended that only a trained garage door professional work on your garage door. Garage doors are heavy and with parts under tension there is a chance for severe injury and or even death.

“...Over 20 years...serving thousands of Utah families...25,000 five-star reviews represent(s) trust earned, and a team committed to doing things the A+ way.” Carrie Kelsch, Founder/CEO

What do I do if my garage door gets stuck?

Check for any obvious obstructions, rakes, shovels, etc., if nothing obvious is found, call A+ Garage doors. Chances are a spring is broken, a cable has snapped, or the cable is hung up in the torsion system.

What does it mean if my garage door light is flashing?

Typically this means that the eye sensors are obstructed, or there is excessive force (opening or closing) detected.

How do I open my garage door if my opener stops working?

Simply pull the emergency release cord and run the door manually.

What if my garage door opener doesn’t work?

Check the GFI outlet and/or power source. If there is power but nothing is working, call A+ Garage Doors.

Is it okay to paint my garage door?

It is not recommended. When garage doors are manufactured, the paint is baked-on enamel that will last much longer.

What are the signs that I need a garage door tune-up?

It is recommended that a garage door receive an annual maintenance lube and tune up- just like your vehicle. Garage doors have many metal mechanical moving parts that need lubrication. Over time, bolts will gradually come loose. Your garage door may seem a lot noisier than before with grinding, squealing and rattling. Your door is crying out for maintenance!

How much is a garage door tune up?

A+ Garage Doors charges $65 although some prices range from $49-$189.

How long does a garage door typically last?

A garage door will typically last 15 to 25 years when well maintained, depending on the door’s quality and manufacturer.

What are the signs that I need a new garage door?

The obvious signs are cracks, dents, fading, rust and holes in panels. If your garage door buckles in the middle during transitions, this indicates a dent or crack. Cracks will begin to spread every time the door is transitioned.

How much does a new garage door add to the resale value of my home?

Currently the JLC “Journal of Light Construction” data states that a new garage door adds 268% ROI (return on investment). Learn more at APlusDoor.com

EASY DAILY CLEANING HABITS SPECIFICALLY FOR SOUTHERN UTAH LIVING

SIMPLE SECRETS FOR SPOTLESS HOMES

Southern Utah’s breathtaking landscapes draw us outdoors constantly—whether hiking Snow Canyon’s trails, biking Gooseberry Mesa’s slickrock, or golfing at Sunbrook, Coral Canyon, or Sand Hollow. Yet the red sand, fine dust, and hard water unique to our desert region can quickly dull a home’s shine. The great news is that with a few easy daily habits, the right tools, and wise decisions about professional help, you can maintain a fresh, spotless space without sacrificing your adventures.

DAILY CLEANING ROUTINES TO STAY AHEAD OF THE MESS

Keep it simple and consistent:

• Shoe-Drop Zone: Place a bench and large boot tray just inside the front door. Make it a family rule: shoes off immediately after any outdoor activity. This one step prevents up to 80% of red sand and dust from tracking through the house.

• Kitchen Wipe-Down: After meals; wipe counters, sink, and stove top using a microfiber cloth and a multipurpose cleaner safe for your surface—whether granite, quartz, laminate, or stone. Choose pH-neutral formulas to avoid etching or dulling.

BY

• Bathroom Squeegee Habit: Right after every shower, squeegee glass doors, walls, and dry faucets. Our hard water causes mineral spots and buildup rapidly; this quick 30-second routine keeps fixtures clear and prevents permanent etching.

• High-Touch Surfaces: Daily; lightly dampen a microfiber cloth and wipe doorknobs, light switches, and handles. Capturing dust and germs effectively in our dry climate.

• Entryway Spot-Clean: Grab a cordless stick vacuum, microfiber mop, or damp pad for a fast sweep or wipe of entry floors—catching any escaped sand before it embeds deeper.

Recommended Tools and Products

• Microfiber Cloth: Must-haves for dusting and wiping— trapping dirt rather than spread it. Grab affordable multi-packs at local stores.

• White Vinegar: A versatile natural cleaner for counters, bathrooms, and descaling coffeemakers. To soften its sharp scent, mix in fresh lemon juice (squeeze half a lemon per cup of vinegar-water solution) or infuse lemon peels for days to weeks beforehand. The citrus brightens the aroma, enhances grease-cutting, and adds a natural antibacterial boost—ideal for kitchens and baths without artificial fragrances.

• Handheld Squeegee: Inexpensive and game-changing for showers.

• HEPA-Filter Vacuum: Perfect for weekly deep cleans; traps fine desert dust and allergens.

• Baking Soda: Deodorize rugs by sprinkling, letting it sit, then vacuuming.

• Cordless Stick Vacuums: Your quick-clean best friend! Use one for fast pickups on high-traffic hard surfaces—removing pet hair, dirt, or sand in seconds without cords or hassle.

WHEN TO HIRE PROFESSIONAL HELP—AND WHAT TO LOOK FOR

With busy schedules, consistent cleaning can fall behind. A trusted professional service saves time and delivers deeper, consistent results. But vet carefully:

• Prioritize licensed, bonded, and insured companies that perform thorough background checks and drug screenings on every team member—this safeguards your home and loved ones.

• Seek transparent processes, clear satisfaction guarantees, and eco-safe products.

• Ask key questions: Do they use fresh, dedicated towels for each home? Do they avoid cross-contaminating (e.g., never using bathroom towels in the kitchen)?

Why skip unreliable options?

Unvetted services may use damaging chemicals, cut corners, overlook details, or introduce security concerns. A quality provider offers true peace of mind and lasting cleanliness. Try these straightforward tips this week and you’ll see a cleaner, fresher home right away. If you’d like professional support to reclaim more time for the trails or courses, reach out to Merry Maids of St. George. We’re your local neighbors, here to help you fully enjoy Southern Utah living.

NOTE ABOUT MERRY MAIDS OF ST. GEORGE

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I joined Merry Maids in 2011, in Boise as a customer service representative, while helping support my family as my husband attended nursing school. By 2016, we moved to Salt Lake to oversee operations there. In 2023, we were fortunate to purchase the Merry Maids franchises in Salt Lake, Provo, and St. George. Today, I work alongside dedicated long-term team members including my oldest son, who serves as Customer Service and Operations Manager in Salt Lake (my other son is proudly serving in the U.S. Air Force). My husband and I are excited to relocate to Southern Utah this spring, making our home base in the St. George office for the warmer weather and community we adore. We’re a small, family-run, 100% woman-owned business backed by a 45 year name— not a big-box corporation. We hire locally, ensure every team member is fully licensed, bonded, and insured through complete screenings, and back every clean with our 100% satisfaction guarantee: if it’s not perfect, we return and redo it at no cost to you.

events

MARCH 12TH THROUGH 14TH

Vintage Market Days

Washington County Legacy Park Fairgrounds in Hurricane | 10:00 AM

Vintage Market Days is an upscale vintage and vintage-inspired indoor/outdoor market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor, outdoor furnishings, consumable yummies, seasonal plantings and more. Open 10am-5pm. Admission for children under 12 is free. Cash and credit card are accepted at the gate. Once purchased, your ticket is good for re-entry into the event all weekend.

MARCH 14TH THROUGH 29TH

Tuacahn Spring Concert Series

Tuacahn Amphitheater | 7:30 PM

The Tuacahn Spring Concert series begins on March 14th with the band Guess Who, 15-16th; Rumours: A Fleetwood Mac Tribute, 21st; Colbie Caillat, 22nd; Martina McBride, 23rd; Jenny Oaks Baker. Round off March by joining the fun with Professional Bull Riders on the 28th and 29th. Visit Tuacahn.org for ticket info!

MARCH 21ST

Roam Wild Market

Tabernacle Street in St. George | 5:00 PM

The Roam Wild Market will be located on W. Tabernacle Street in front of FS Coffee. They will have live music, yummy food, and artists that St. George hasn’t seen before. What better place to watch the sunset than right downtown in beautiful St. George? Enjoy all that they have to offer from 5-9pm.

MARCH 21ST

Donut Dash 5k

Crosby Confluence Park, St. George | 9:30 AM

Red Rock Center for Independence hosts this family-friendly fundraiser supporting individuals with disabilities in our community helping them live independently and thrive. Expect donut stations along the course (eat WHILE you run), a 5K dash through beautiful Confluence Park, fun for all ages and abilities, community spirit + lots of frosting! Special discounted registration for individuals w/ disabilities. Info- 435.673.7501 rrci.org

MARCH 27TH THROUGH 28TH

2026 Hurricane Mountain Bike Festival

Quail Creek State Park RV Campground | 9:00 AM

An amazing weekend experience for all mountain biking enthusiasts! Join us for thrilling rides with locals, camaraderie around the fire, and plenty of fun activities that celebrate our love for the trails. Mark your calendars and prepare for an adventure you won’t want to miss! Packages start at $85.00. Visit hurricanemtbfestival.com for more info.

MARCH 28TH

2026 Southern Utah Half Marathon

Highland Park- 1250 Highland Parkway, Washington | 6:30 AM

The Southern Utah Half Marathon follows a beautiful route starting at Highland Park in Washington. It offers amazing views of the sun rising over Zion National Park. The race will proceed quickly downhill through Washington to the scenic Virgin River Trail. Registration ends March 25th. More info at: runsignup.com/Race/UT/Washington/SouthernUtahHalfMarathon