Ivins resident Robert MacFarlane has created a helpful, nonpartisan website with information from each of the candidates, in their own words. You can find it at: https://votestg.com. Once you’re on the site, scroll down and click on “Ivins City Election.” You’ll see links to each candidate’s answers to seven important questions.
For general election information, follow the link below.
“ASTROVAN” (16 min.), directed by Matt Heder
“BOTTLE GEORGE” (13 min.), directed by Daisuke “Dice” Tsutsumi
“DEATH AND COOKIES” (9 min.), directed by Aaron Stephen Tharp
“MARGARET THE BRAVE” (27 min.), directed by Danny Chandia
“TIGER” (13 min.), directed by Loren Wateres
SAVE THE DATE
Join us for an incredible evening celebrating our region’s diverse restaurant and growing wine & beer scenes beneath the breathtaking red rocks of Kayenta. This one-of-a-kind food and wine festival brings together the best of the best, allowing patrons to sip, savor, and celebrate our community’s vibrant and growing culinary scene. All proceeds benefit Kayenta Arts Foundation & The Arts in Southern Utah.
This event is 21+. Ticket information can be found on our website
Now in its third year, the Kayenta New Play Lab is where bold new voices in American theater come to life. Over three exhilarating weeks, six visionary playwrights—chosen by a panel of esteemed local and national theatermakers—dive into an intensive creative residency, shaping fresh, original works for the stage.
Audiences are invited to witness the magic unfold through staged readings of these brand-new plays—raw, real, and alive with possibility. Stay after each reading for an engaging dialogue with the artists, where your feedback helps shape the evolution of each piece.
Whether you’re a dedicated theatergoer, a curious creative, or someone who simply loves the thrill of live performance, the New Play Lab is your front-row seat to the next wave of theatrical storytelling. Come be part of the process. Come be inspired.
“Supporting the creation and development of new work is a vital piece of our vision at the Center for the Arts at Kayenta. Our New Play Lab aims to support artists – both locally and nationally – as they tell the stories of the past, present, and future, for the benefit of us all, as we continue to learn and grow into the ever changing world around us.” – Miranda Wright, Executive Director
by Ken Narasaki
(Los Angeles, CA)
Friday, August 15, 7:30pm
Saturday, August 16, 3:00pm
An honest family drama about a tense Nisei (second generation Japanese American) mother and the adult children she’s emotionally scarred. As buried trauma, cultural guilt, and generational wounds erupt, the siblings must confront whether survival means staying — or finally walking away.
by Lisa Quoresimo
(Cedar City, UT)
Saturday, August 16, 7:30pm
Sunday, August 17, 3:00pm
Los Angeles, 2014. Anne’s father Elliot and sister Elizabeth, former television stars, have spent the last of the family’s fortune on their latest round of cosmetic surgeries. Anne tries to keep the family afloat by renting out their house and working as the in-house chef. One of the houseguests turns out to be the love of Anne’s life: Celia Wentworth. Unfortunately, it appears that Celia has never forgiven Anne for not having the courage to openly pursue their relationship twenty years ago.
by Maddox Pennington
(Los Angeles, CA)
Friday, August 22, 7:30pm
Saturday, August 23, 3:00pm
Central Standard Time is a stand-alone installment in a trilogy of plays. It follows Jay, a thirty-something nonbinary/trans person, home to his family hometown in rural Oklahoma, where he intends to take over a family business that has been left to him and try to make a life among his Native family.
by Debora Threedy
(Dammeron Valley, UT)
Saturday, August 23, 7:30pm
Sunday, August 24, 3:00pm
This play is based on the life of Juanita Brooks, particularly the years from 1918 to 1951. The central mystery of her life is this: She was a seemingly ordinary Mormon housewife. She held positions of authority in her Church. She worked at a job for almost her entire life. How did such a woman come to publish the first accurate account of the 1857 Mountain Meadows Massacre, the full story of which had been actively suppressed by the LDS Church for nearly a hundred years?
by Chelsea Sutton
(Los Angeles, CA)
Friday, August 29, 7:30pm
Saturday, August 30, 3:00pm
When Dr. Kam Vandermeer visits the Midland Paranormal Convention to present her research on the mysterious Mahulley Monster, C-List paranormal TV personality Peter McGillis seems determined to poke holes in her story. But as they delve deeper into Kam’s evidence, their bickering only unearths something stranger than either one of them can explain.
by Kate Mickere
(Los Angeles, CA)
Saturday, August 30, 7:30pm
Sunday, August 31, 3:00pm
In 1890s New England, during a deadly wave of consumption, Lucy returns home to care for her orphaned niece, Faith, just as rumors of vampires begin to take hold. While Lucy turns to science for answers, young Faith is drawn to a preacher who believes the disease is part of a supernatural threat. As fear and folklore spread through the town, the line between illness and myth becomes harder to define.
The timeworn expression “to go south” typically connotes that things are not going as planned! Well, not in the current instance, at least as it relates to Kayenta! Anyone driving past or through the southwestern section of the community can’t help but be struck by the amount of construction activity taking place there.
Construction continues on the second phase of the Old Highway 91 project from Kwavasa Drive all the way to the entrance to Fire Lake Park and includes resurfacing the existing roadway, adding 7 foot bike lanes on both shoulders, completing the remaining sections of the trail from the Phase 1 Highway 91 improvements, installing a sewer line, and upgrading several intersections along the route, including the principal entrance to our community from Kayenta Parkway, where a designated left turn lane will be installed to increase safety. The city is hopeful that this project will be done around Labor Day.
Turning north on Kayenta Parkway, you’ll almost immediately notice that several new streets have been created off the right side of the road just as you crest the first hill off the highway. Later this Fall or early 2026, we will see the official opening of the newest phase of our community, called Moenkopi Trail. Several lots will be released for sale in this newest phase, ranging in size from 2/3rd acres up to 1 acre. Pricing has not yet been finalized. In the heart of Moenkopi Trail, Kayenta’s newest “Concept Home” is nearing completion. Once finished, this sleek, new 3,200 square foot home will replace the current concept home on Paiute Drive, which has been a key marketing asset for the community since 2019.
The highway improvements will improve safe access to Kayenta, just as we get ready to launch this beautiful new phase of our community. Stay tuned for more information as we move forward. Jeff, Steve, and Naomi look forward to showing you around both the new lots for sale as well as the stunning new Concept Home in Moenkopi Trail.
Jeff Sproul, Principal Broker
Steve McAllister & Naomi Doyle, Sales Agents
435-628-7234
Sharing experiences and expertise with others who work in disciplines and/or on projects similar to yours can bring positive results. Beyond camaraderie and learning about better ways of doing things, like-minded volunteers also find renewed commitment as they meet with others who share both their passions and their concerns.
Such was one of several outcomes of a “walk and talk” in early July when board members of the Desert Preservation Initiative (DPI) met with local environmental and conservation experts. On hand for the meeting organized by DPI volunteer Shaunna Goldbery, a conservation botanist and science/STEAM educator, were Tyce Palmer, Utah Department of Agriculture and Food(UDAF), Zone 5 Conservation Director; Jake Benson, conservation planner with UDFA and the Natural Resources Conservation Service; Brad Winder, Washington County Department of Noxious Weeds Supervisor, and Chris Corville, Best Friends Animal Society, Kanab.
During the early morning visit to the Wisteria Way wash project site off of Cactus Gulch, the group discussed soil management and restoration efforts, a well as the possibility of drone seeding, the use of EDDMapS to track invasive species and apply for grant funding, and thoughts on tracking birds in the area.
A primary lesson—one embraced by all—was the need to revamp how DPI leaves wood debris on site following tamarisk removal. Rather than leaving the debris in a pile, it is more effective to spread the debris around “to add nutrients to the soil, to keep soil from blowing away and give a shelter for seeds to take root,” notes DPI board member Sara Dupre.
“Bare soil is a dead soil that is subject to increased wind erosion and water erosion,” explains Jake Benson. “The sandy soils you have there have very little organic matter to help protect and promote plant growth and water holding capacity,” he says, “the bare soil is so hot in summer it literally cooks the seeds. If you leave the soil bare, red broom and cheat grass will come in.” Basically, as familiar saying goes, “Nature abhors a vacuum, if you don’t replace it with something you want nature will replace it with something you don’t want.”
Tyce Palmer noted that his agency and the Dixie Conservation District can help apply for and administer grants and that he also works with the American Conservation Experience and writes grants for them. Grant funding could help DPI pay for additional labor, herbicide, and seed.
Brad Winder, who has previously helped DPI by teaching a workshop on herbicide use, found the gathering a win/win. Tyce Palmer noted that the work of DPI is “a great community effort. I like how your committee is organized and has good monitoring going on.”
With a great many new ideas to pursue, Shaunna Goldberry summed up the day, “It’s wonderful to revisit and review all of your labor and dedication to conservation! I continue to be impressed.”
SAVE THE DATE
featuring:
Live Entertainment • Family Games • Drone Show • Pie Baking Contest • Inflatables • Bingo • Art Exhibit • Scavenger Hunt • Parade • Coyote Tales • Crafts • Pony Rides • Car Show
*Dates and times vary for each event.
Thanks to incredible community support, the Ivins Arts Commission has raised a little over $35,000 in the past 3 weeks toward their $48,700 goal to keep the wind sculptures permanently installed at the Highway 91 & Kwavasa roundabout.
Please consider closing the gap by donating and sharing this link with a friend: www.ivinsartscommission.com/donate. This public art is not being paid for with City funds – 100% of the cost is being raised through private donations.
happening now
Jennifer Harper, owner of Kayenta Art Villages’ only hair studio, is pleased to announce the addition of a new stylist, her daughter, June.
June is dedicated to enhancing your natural beauty with the use of eco-friendly products. She will work with you to achieve a simple, sexy style that will be easy to maintain at home. Together, she can create a new you!
Please visit her website to see a list of services and to schedule your next appointment.
Mike Scott, Council Member
Many of us in Ivins have experienced frustrating power outages, some tied to weather or fire prevention, but others with no clear explanation. I contacted the Utah Public Service Commission to request a full review of the situation. Within hours, Commissioner John Harvey called me and formally directed Rocky Mountain Power to respond within 30 days with explanations, investment details, and plans for improving reliability.
I’ll share updates as soon as I receive them. In the meantime, if you’ve experienced a power outage in the past few months, or if you have one in the coming weeks, please let me know about it (mike@MikeScott4Ivins.com). (More info at https://www.mikescott4ivins.com/?p=5053)
The Ivins City Council primary election is August 12th. Here are a few thoughts on how to think about candidates. (Purely by coincidence, they also happen to describe me pretty well.)
One helpful way to think about this is through the idea of civic virtue, a commitment to the common good that keeps our community strong and united. Civic virtue is about more than good intentions. It’s about how leaders approach the real tensions and tradeoffs of local government.
When I was first elected, I took part in training by the Utah League of Cities & Towns. One key concept they emphasized was the idea of “polarity”: the need to balance individual rights and community needs.
These are not opposing forces where we choose one and discard the other. They are interdependent. Overemphasizing one weakens the whole. A healthy community protects individual freedoms while also upholding shared responsibilities and values.
This is a real issue in Ivins. Some candidates argue that we shouldn’t regulate things like building height, design, landscaping, or home-based businesses because “Ivins is not an HOA.” I’ve heard that many times. But we’re not an HOA and we’re not an anything-goes town either. Our City Code, hundreds of pages long, reflects our community’s shared vision for the kind of place we want to live in.
I believe in smart, limited regulations that serve a meaningful purpose, like preserving our iconic views, protecting our natural environment, minimizing impacts on neighbors, and ensuring public safety. Ivins has worked hard to maintain a distinct sense of place, and that didn’t happen by accident. It happened through planning, compromise, and yes, regulation.
When evaluating candidates, here are some other traits worth looking for:
Ivins resident Robert MacFarlane has created a helpful, nonpartisan website with information from each of the candidates, in their own words. You can find it at: https://votestg.com. Once you’re on the site, scroll down and click on “Ivins City Election.” You’ll see links to each candidate’s answers to seven important questions.
You can also see the “candidate profiles” each candidate submitted to the State at https://votesearch.utah.gov/voter-search/search/search-by-address/candidates-and-issues. Enter your address then “submit.” Click on “Ivins City Council.”
All of the candidates running are good people who care about Ivins. But serving on the City Council is a unique responsibility. It takes serious effort to understand the complexities of the issues we face—and how policy decisions impact everyone in the community. I hope these ideas help you make a thoughtful decision. Thanks for caring about our city, and for voting.
Ivins will hold a formal public hearing on a proposed property tax increase on August 14 at 6:00 PM at City Hall (85 N Main St). For more information, see “Why a Property Tax Increase Is On The Table” at https://www.mikescott4ivins.com/?p=4709. Here is the Zoom link for the public hearing if you want to participate but can’t attend in person: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89910111797
I try to keep these articles relatively concise. Not doing too well at that. It’s frustrating because there’s so much to discuss. So, please email me at Mike@MikeScott4Ivins.com for more information about these and other Ivins issues. Also, please tell me what issues in Ivins matter to you. Visit my website at www.MikeScott4Ivins.com for regular updates and now you can also add your comments to my articles.
Janell Bassett, Editor
Deonne and David Knill both have very technical minds. Deonne is a civil engineer with a focus on environmental remediation. David brings 30 years of technical sales and consulting to his work at Cisco where he advises customers on the requirements, design, and implementation of network technology.
Researching situations carefully is second nature to both Knills, but once they’ve done their homework, the are quick to make a move. Such is the story that led them to Kayenta—finding a home and a life very different from their 25 years in Portland, Oregon.
Deonne’s family moved from Washington to Montana when she was 10, where she lived until she went to Purdue University to study engineering, where David, who grew up near the campus, studied Industrial Management with a minor in computer science. After a stint in Kansas City, the couple moved to Oregon and raised their son Devlin, now following in the family’s technical tradition by studying aerospace engineering.
The Knills had never been to southern Utah prior to 2024, when Deonne took part in a 3-day Trail Running event in Kanab for her 50th birthday. “We looked at a few houses in Kanab while we were there thinking it would be a good place to move,” David says. Back home “we did some more research and figured we should look more at St. George since it was closer to activities like basketball, Costco 😊, and there were still places with red rocks.” Another trip, lunch at Xetava, and “a lot more research” sealed the deal.
“The carefully planned development, prioritization of preserving the natural environment, and not cramming in house after house really hit all our desires for our next home,” says Deonne. They moved in in April of this year.
Their new locale enables their passions for sports—college basketball and football and the NFL and the National Women’s Soccer League, with the Seattle Seahawks and the Purdue Boilermakers high on their list of favorites. They’ve traveled to watch Purdue in the 2024 NCAA men’s basketball championship, as well as the USA Olympic Trials last summer and the World Championships the year before. Both like to walk/hike together and David has joined a weekly pickup basketball game at Nets on Fire, “even at my advanced age,” he adds.
Deonne retired early from ”interesting work with a great team” when Covid had me rethinking what I was doing and why. Our son had one more year left in high school, and it seemed like I could soak in those last months of parenting before he moved out.” Today, David continues to work remotely, with an occasional plane trip along the way.
Deonne has gone to work with the Desert Preservation Initiative, which she read about before they made an offer on their Kayenta home. “As soon as we had an accepted contract, I emailed DPI, introduced myself, and expressed my desire to get involved,” Deonne reports. “I love to be outside, and the watershed preservation and restoration aspect is perfect for my background. I spent over 25 years doing environmental cleanup work, so this feels like a mini extension of that.”
As David reports, “This is our first summer ever in the desert and we’re surviving so far…and I actually like the heat.” Together, they relish the fact that “There is so much to learn from leaving the Pacific Northwest rainforest and moving to the Mojave Desert.” Let the research begin!
Editors note. If you know someone that you think should be featured in our monthly Kayenta Connection under our NEW “Resident Spotlight” section please email the Kayenta Connection at kayentaconnection@rdicreative.com. Our intent is to focus on the incredible people living in our community– be they seasoned residents or new recruits.
Teacher: Joyce Casey
Time: 10am – 1pm
Indulge your creative side and join our exciting micro-mosaic jewelry-making class, perfect for crafting one-of-a-kind gifts or treating yourself to unique keepsakes! In this hands-on workshop, expert instructor Joyce guides you step-by-step to create up to three dazzling pendants, keychains, or magnets using vibrant glass, stones, charms, wire, and other design elements—all supplies included!
Teacher: Darcy Lee Saxton
Time: 10am – 1pm
Join this two-day mixed-media workshop designed to help you reconnect with your creative voice through intuitive, expressive art-making You’ll be introduced to foundational art concepts such as balance, contrast, focal point, and visual flow. We’ll explore how traditional composition techniques can support meaning and bring clarity to your work, while still honoring the intuitive process. This workshop is open to all experience levels.
Teacher: Joyce Casey
Time: 10 am – 2 pm (Thursday)
and 10 am – 12 pm (Friday)
Join us for a two-day artistic adventure in creating your very own river rock mosaic to adorn your outdoor space! In this hands-on workshop, you will learn of the various methods, materials, and safety essentials required to successfully create your composition in glass. The first day will be spent in the design and creation phase. Joyce will supply a variety of patterns to choose from, or you may bring your own simple design. The second day will be spent grouting and finishing your piece. No experience is necessary, and all supplies are included!
Information & Class Registration
And, while you are there, register your email to receive monthly updates on classes.
Ladies, we need to talk! It’s been a while since we’ve all gotten together to enjoy one another’s company, so let’s get together to reconnect with old friends and welcome new ones to the neighborhood. Please join us for a lovely afternoon of good food, good conversations and friendship.
Seating for this luncheon is limited so please purchase your seat right away. Based on attendance numbers from previous luncheons I have added extra seats to accommodate all who would like to attend. If weather permits, additional seats will be added outdoors. I will also be hosting future Kayenta HOA neighborhood ladies luncheons.
WATERMELON WITH BALSAMIC GLAZE AND BASIL
RED MOUNTAIN LADY MOCKTAIL/COCKTAIL
HIBISCUS HONEY ICED TEA
ZUCCHINI CARPACCIO WITH TOASTED PINE NUTS, LEMON AND SHAVED PARMESAN
HOUSEMADE RICOTTA & SPINACH CANNELLONI WITH PARMESAN BECHAMEL AND FRIED BASIL GARNISH
CHAMOMILE PANNA COTTA WITH FRESH BERRIES AND WHITE CHOCOLATE ALMOND TUILE
NEW AUTUMN MENUS HAVE JUST BEEN POSTED . RESERVE YOUR SEAT AT THE TABLE NOW!
DINNER LOCATION: PRIVATE HOME IN KAYENTA, UTAH
**The exact address and driving directions will be emailed 1 week prior to the event.
About Petite Feast Dinner Club: after 35 years as a restaurateur, caterer, chef and Food and Wine best new chef nominee, Victoria Topham is opening her kitchen to share her unique culinary skills and healthy cooking style with guests just like you. PF Dinner Club offers guests the opportunity to socialize with new friends around a shared table while enjoying deliciously upscale meals. Monthly dinners will feature an hors d’oeuvre hour followed by a multi course dinner where mingling with the chef in the kitchen is encouraged. ** Think – mash-up of a restaurant, dinner party and cooking class. And, she always has a few unplanned courses and surprises for her guests! Events are announced monthly through the website and pricing for each event varies. Victoria is happy to accommodate your special celebration requests and dietary preferences whenever possible. I hope to see you soon.
“Thank you again for a wonderful evening. You always “top” yourself! My friends were very, very impressed. The food and service were superb.
So great to be in such an amazing community like Kayenta.” – Sally and Sam McNeil-Blimling
” Great food, conversation, and friends! Best restaurant ever…thanks Vic, for managing to always top yourself with your creativity and yumminess.” –LB
“Thank you, Victoria, for a magical evening! Thank you for such a warm welcome to my new neighbor and friend”. – Margaret
“The feast was off the charts and the highlight was watching you prepare our meals with such passion, precision, and delight! –Tom Groves
When the midsummer heat hits triple digits, the best seat in the house is outside by the grill with a cold drink in hand. Whether it’s poolside, at a summer blowout, or just dinner in the backyard, the true taste of summer can always be found on the grill. Beef, chicken, and even hot dogs shine over an open flame, but in my opinion, a great burger is the undeniable star of summer dining.
I’m all about a good turkey burger, but let’s be honest, they’ve earned their reputation for being bland, boring, and dry. I’ve spent years dialing in my recipe to produce a burger that’s juicy and flavorful enough to win over even the most die-hard beef burger aficionados. This month’s VDP recipe employs a little kitchen know-how and some high-flavor condiments like sweet, smoky onions, creamy avocado, and a spicy barbeque mayo to help you turn out a burger that’s anything but dull.
Grilling a burger is usually fairly straightforward, but when the recipe calls for ground turkey, a bit of technique and finesse can help set you up for success. The reason is that turkey burgers are notoriously tricky—unlike beef, turkey must be cooked all the way through. The USDA recommends an internal temperature of 160°F to 165°F, which means a longer cook time. Turkey is also naturally lower in fat so it lacks the juiciness that fattier meats deliver. To solve these issues, I combine two types of ground turkey: lean breast meat and regular ground turkey (made with both white and dark meat). This blend not only adds flavor, but also brings in just enough fat to keep the burgers moist and satisfying through their extended time on the grill.
I recommend preheating your grill for at least 20 minutes before placing anything on the grates. And make sure that the grates are scrupulously clean. Shape your patties and freeze them for 20 minute to make the grilling process easier. A light mist of nonstick olive oil cooking spray before placing them on the grill is also helpful. Then place them on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes with the lid closed. After the first side is done, flip the burgers, add cheese if you’d like, and cook for another 3–4 minutes. Once they hit an internal temperature of 160°F to 165°F, they’re good to go. Chef’s tip: Resist the urge to open the grill or press on the burgers with a spatula—that just squeezes out all the juices.
Once you’ve nailed those perfect patties, tuck them into soft, toasted buns with lightly charred, garden-fresh onions (shout out to Nate and Sara!), a generous slather of mayo, and buttery avocado slices. I promise, the result is a turkey burger that’s bold, delicious and rivals even the best beef burger
If you want to sip while you flip, Tim and Judy suggest pouring a red—something like a Cabernet Franc or a Rhône-style blend with plenty of Grenache. Or if you’re in the mood for something spirit-free, try this twist on a classic Lime Rickey: stir together 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice, 1 T simple syrup, 4 ounces of soda water, and 1 teaspoon of caper or pickle juice. Pour it over ice and garnish with a lime wedge. I know the caper or pickle juice sounds a little strange, but that splash of brine adds a savory edge that mimics the earthy complexity of alcohol which is surprisingly great with the acidic bite of the lime.
If you have not joined the Virtual Dinner Party but would like to dine with us, please prepare this recipe – or any other – and share it with your family, friends and neighbors. It is our group’s firm belief that by preparing something good to eat and sharing it with those we love, we are participating in one of life’s greatest joys. The connection, community and good will that come from it fill us with joy, hope and gratitude. I hope you all enjoy it as much as I do.
Thanks for coming to the party and Cook On! – Victoria
VIRTUAL DINNER PARTY 108
GRILLED TURKEY BURGER WITH BARBECUED ONIONS, SPICY MAYO AND AVOCADO
INGREDIENTS:
1 lb. ground turkey breast
1 /2 lb. ground turkey
2 t. kosher salt
1 t. freshly ground pepper
4 1 /2″-thick slices red onion
1 /4 cup homemade or store-bought barbecue sauce
4 slices Monterey Jack cheese
4 buttered hamburger buns, toasted
barbeque mayonnaise recipe below
sliced avocado
METHOD:
Preheat grill to medium-high.
Make spicy mayonnaise: Combine 1 /2 cup mayonnaise, 1 t. red chili sauce, 2 T prepared or homemade barbeque sauce, and juice of half a lime together in a small bowl. Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving so flavors can develop.
Prepare Burgers: Combine ground turkey meats, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl, tossing gently with your hands. Shape into four 3 /4″ thick patties. Spray patties with nonstick spray and freeze for 20 minutes. Place cold burgers on grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on one side. Flip burgers and top with cheese. Grill to 160°F to 165°F 3–4 more minutes. Remove from grill and let rest while you prepare onions.
Grill onions: Brush onions with barbecue sauce and cook until soft. Turn often, brushing with additional sauce throughout the grilling process.
Turn off the grill and toast buttered buns lightly. Chef’s Tip: This is my go-to method for perfectly toasted burger buns—turning the grill off helps prevent the all-too-common burnt bun situation.
Serve burgers topped with spicy barbeque mayonnaise, onions, and avocado
Serves 4
Ever pulled off the unthinkable? Beat the odds? Made it through airport security after a flat tire? Remembered your password on the first try? Hit the high note. Nailed the shot. Found the needle in the haystack. If you’ve ever stared down the impossible and thought, “No way… unless?” – This night is for you.
Whether you’re telling your tale or just soaking it all in, come be part of something unforgettable. Laugh, connect, and experience the magic of Coyote Tales live and outdoors.
WANT TO GET ON STAGE? Reach out to Victoria @ coyotetalesstories.com & let’s make it happen.
PLEASE REMEMBER: YOUR STORY MUST BE YOUR OWN. We’re looking for true, first-person narratives told within the allotted time. Were you there? Were you the main character? Your direct involvement is essential. This must be a story only you can tell.
All outdoor events are FREE, and proceeds from indoor shows have gone straight to local nonprofits. Coyote Tales is brought to you with love and support from Petite Feast, Utah Humanities, Kayenta Homes & Properties, and Black Desert Resort. Big thanks to Desert Dweller Realty and SBDance for their in-kind magic.
*LONGTIME COYOTE TALES SUPPORTERS, KAYENTA HOMES & PROPERTIES WILL BE ON HAND PROVIDING FREE BOTTLED WATER AND COOKIES FOR STORY LOVERS THROUGHOUT THE EVENING!
Photograph by Alan Holben Photography
Grand Prize – The Café Couture Oven with Air Fry from Appliance Wholesalers. Bake, Air Fry, Toast, Dehydrate & more without turning on your main oven. It’s your new countertop BFF. ($550 value!)
Second Place – Baker’s Specialty serving platter, a cake stand, and stainless-steel skillet from Boulevard Home ($200 value)
Third Place – A professional baker’s gift basket from Petite Feast, packed with all the tools and inspiration you need to bake like a pro ($150 value)
Questions? Reach out to Victoria at petitefeastutah@gmail.com
Submit your application in person at City Hall (85 N Main St, Ivins, UT 84738) or online at ivins.recdesk.com under PROGRAMS
Class size is limited and subject to change.
Elevate Studio • 435-632-1381
jyfitness@me.com
Be happy. Be healthy. Have a blast!
ELEVATE!
Pre-registration is required.
Contact John before attending your first class.
“May we learn to honor the hammock, the siesta, the nap, and the pause in all its forms. May peace prevail.” -Alice Walker
Yoga classes are paused during the months of June – August.
Classes will resume in September.
Preregistration is required. Please call/text/email for more information
Karen Kushner (E-RYT 500)
978-621-0499
Classes are $15 • Punch cards are available for $75 (5 classes)
No sign-up is required!
Hi, I’m Javier Guzman a licensed massage therapist who resides in the beautiful community of Kayenta. My handcrafted massages are designed for you whether you want relaxation, deep therapeutic, stress reducing, pain relieving, or just to improve overall health & well-being. Don’t delay your journey to a healthier you!
“I think he is a neighborhood treasure. He has a very nice casita where he works. I love his massage and he is a really nice, thoughtful, considerate, good guy.” ~ Christy Lueders
Call or text for an appointment:
Javier Guzman
206-271-6165
If you have an interest in joining or have played very little to even not at all and would like to try it prior to paying dues, contact Denton Zubke by email at dbzubke@gmail.com or by phone or text at 701-570-4043. It’s a great way to meet other Kayenta residents and enjoy some fun and get some great exercise.
We’re planning on more organized events such as clinics, beginner classes, and round robins in 2023. Join us in learning to play. It’s fun the first day, infectious, and great for fitness. Please email Denton Zubke or Erin at the Kayenta office for more information.
Email DentonThe Desert Rose Labyrinth & Sculpture Garden is a community resource with the intention that all who walk the labyrinth will be blessed with peace, comfort, and open hearts. The Labyrinth is maintained and funded by Kayenta volunteers. Please be respectful and leave only footprints. For more information or to make group reservations, please contact:
Cheryl Collins
Email Cheryl
Beth Hopwood
Email Beth
Desert Rose Labyrinth
792 Kayenta Pkwy, Ivins UT
We are on Summer Break
Trips will resume in October
For details contact Charles Dillier at 435-656-1956
The measure of the strength of a commitment is often how difficult it is to keep. Thus, the time invested in learning and preparing to follow up on a commitment pays off in two ways—it makes it easier to accomplish a complicated task and it also reinforces the strength of your commitment.
The well attended safety Desert Preservation Initiative workshop conducted by Ivins City Parks Superintendent Joseph Rawlinson May 13 offered critical advice on using the equipment needed to accomplish DPI’s goal of removing the highly flammable invasive tamarisk. Addressing key safety procedures and practices, Rawlinson led the group through ways to increase their efficiency and effectiveness, thereby making it easier to maintain their commitment to this work.
The key theme of the day was the safety principles and procedures that define all that DPI does. Rawlinson stressed that the person who is operating a piece of equipment is in charge. And, as DPI President Chuck Warren says, “As with any endeavor, such as marriage, you really don’t know on many levels what it is about until you are up to your knees in the weeds. And that is true of DPI’s efforts to deal with tamarisk. All of those participating in the experience of DPI have to appreciate the complexities and simplicities of this community building process. The safety culture is an important aspect of what we do.”
reminded the group, “It can be easy to be lax when you’ve done this work before,” which is why the creation of a culture of safety is vital. That would include daily reviews of safety standards and practices on the job.
Rawlinson covered a wide range of topics, from personal protective equipment (PPE) to the types of equipment typically used, how to maintain such equipment and how to use it properly. This included safety glasses and hearing protection, as well as clothing and shoes. He covered loppers, axes, and chain saws and reciprocating saws, among others, carefully reviewing safety mechanisms and equipment operations for each tool.
DPI board member Sara Dupre found that “These safety demonstrations are critical for new and seasoned DPI volunteers for the reminder of keeping safety a priority for ourselves and our other volunteers next to us on the site.” Volunteer Randy Wright, a fire fighter for 35 years, supports the good work of DPI in “eradicating invasive species and reducing fire hazards.” Noting that “Safety is everybody’s responsibility,” he found Joseph Rawlinson’s presentation “excellent.”
Rawlinson plans a follow-up workshop in the fall when he will bring a park crew to demonstrate safe removal procedures.
Ivins City Parks Superintendent and Certified Arborist Joseph Rawlinson demonstrated safe use and handling of a wide variety of cutting and trimming equipment.
Have you always wanted to get involved in our community but aren’t sure how? Good news – a small team of volunteers is working on creating a volunteer database, connecting interested residents like you to the amazing groups that help make Ivins such a great place.
Join us in shaping our vibrant community through volunteerism. Every contribution counts, whether you have an hour or a weekend to spare. Your involvement makes a difference in making Ivins even greater.
We invite you to play an active role in our community’s future. Whether you’re passionate about parks, local events, or public services, there’s a place for you in the Ivins Volunteer Program. Already volunteering? We need you in the database, too! Please fill out our form to help match your skills with those of organizations that need you. Filling out the form doesn’t commit you to any of these organizations or roles, but it does help us connect you with opportunities, and it gives volunteer groups/organizations a way to find you and reach out.
*The Ivins Inspired Volunteer Program is entirely a volunteer program not owned or operated by Ivins City in any manner.
To learn more about our projects and mission please visit our website.
Habitat for Humanity of Southwest Utah
835 South Bluff Street, St. George, UT. 84770
Ivins No-Kill Animal Supporters (INKAS) is a 501(c)3 organization and a Registered Utah Charity. It was founded in 2010 with the mission of providing support to Ivins Animal Shelter and Adoption Center, now the Santa Clara-Ivins Animal Shelter. In 2006 our shelter became the first no-kill municipal shelter in the state of Utah. Maintaining a no-kill shelter, as opposed to one that euthanizes animals after a set period of time, is more costly because the animal’s needs must be met at the shelter until they are reclaimed by their owners, adopted, or transferred to an animal rescue organization. Through a memorandum of understanding with Ivins City, INKAS provides support through veterinary care, specialty foods, and other needed supplies. Funds are raised through the sale of merchandise at various local events and through the donations of many generous animal lovers. You can help by designating INKAS as your charity on Amazon Smile or by donating on our website.
Bailee Mabe, Shelter Manager
474 North 200 West, Ivins
435-628-1049
Hours by appointment:
Monday – Saturday, 8am – 3 pm
Ivins Night Sky launched on January 8th, 2019. We are a 100% volunteer, not-for-profit, citizen organization. We registered as a Utah nonprofit corporation in February 2019 and received 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status from the IRS in March.
Our mission is to improve, preserve, and protect the night sky over Ivins and our heritage of dark skies through environmentally responsible outdoor lighting, and to serve as a resource for City officials, residents, and businesses.
Let us know if this Initiative is important to you, if you are willing to get involved, and what else you think we should be doing to improve, preserve, and protect the night skies in Ivins.
Email Ivins Night SkyWe’d like to invite all Kayenta residents to join us in supporting Snow Canyon State Park. Our mission is to provide support to Snow Canyon State Park through various means. For more information and to join Friends please visit our website.
Nextdoor is a completely private online website environment for all of the Kayenta Nextdoor neighborhoods. Special thanks to Ray Borg for being our fearless leader.
Located in the desert community of Kayenta Utah, the Crescent Moon Inn is the perfect place to get away from it all. The Inn is just a short walk or bike ride from the Kayenta Art Village, where locally-owned art galleries, the Sacred Space Day Spa and the Xetava Garden Cafe add to your unique experience.
For Reservations or Pricing call:
435-879-9076
Looking for a Hair Artist right here in Kayenta?….JENN Hair Artist embodies the artistic creativity and passion of the beauty industry. She thrives in creating natural, sexy cuts and color styles for men and women. She looks forward to pampering you.
924A Art Village Way, Ivins, UT 83455
801 637-0884 (call or text)
Good Medicine Intuitive Skin Care
Good Medicine Beauty Lab is a small women-owned company, that creates high-quality face and skincare products. The products are all hand-crafted in our Kayenta lab, from ethically sourced ingredients and wild desert botanicals.
• Unique face and body care products.
• Safe, natural, and locally sourced wild botanical ingredients
Stop by and test all our products, we will be open every day from 9-5!
Kayenta Art Village: 873 Coyote Gulch Ct. Suite C, walk towards the Center for the Arts & look for the bright purple door.
435-656-5240
Is your Home dated, and in desperate need of a complete makeover? I can completely update the look and feel of your home without costly remodeling. I can help with affordable solutions that will transform your space. You will have a home that is organized, more current, and looks beautiful.
Are you building a New Home and need the finishing Touches? I can help with all the decorative touches, from home furnishings to tile, paint & more!
Happy Up Your Home with Home Stylist Nancy Weezy Forman, Kayenta Resident
215.805.0035 WEEZY@NANCYWEEZYFORMAN.COM
Desert Dermatology and Surgery
We are committed to offering you superior dermatological care in a safe, comfortable, and modern environment. Our highly skilled team of Board-Certified providers specialize in Dermatology, Mohs Surgery, and Dermatopathology, ensuring you receive expert care tailored to your unique needs.
Kayenta resident Dr. Christian Anderson DO, PharmD, FAOCD-CAQ Mohs, FASMS, FAAD has been dedicated to healthcare since 1985. He looks forward to making a lasting impact on the health and well-being of his community while navigating today’s complex healthcare landscape with a patient-centered approach.
Desert Dermatology and Surgery
(directly across the street from Rocky Vista University)
272 E Center St Suite 102
Ivins UT 84738
435-288-1311 work • 435-274-2958 fax
Convenient healthcare with Script Your Health Telemedicine and Rosanne Calure, CRNP
Kayenta homeowner Rosanne Calure is a certified adult nurse practitioner with 30 years of clinical experience. She specializes in primary care, urgent care, weight loss, ADHD, and women’s and men’s health. She currently operates her telemedicine practice and is licensed in Utah, Arizona, Nevada, Maryland, Washington, D.C., Massachusetts, and Virginia. Rosanne has a home in Kayenta and plans to make Kayenta her full-time residence early next year.
To learn more about Script Your Health and Rosanne Calure, CRNP, or if you have questions, call or text 888-507-4660. You can also visit her website link below for more information.
The mention or listing of specific Kayenta business and/or products or services herein is solely for informational purposes and does not imply endorsement by Kayenta Homes and Properties, Kayenta Development, or the Kayenta Connection, or our partners, nor discrimination against similar brands, products or services offered by Kayenta residents not mentioned.
The Kayenta Desert Arboretum is getting a new and beautiful look this spring. Over the last couple of months our faithful volunteers have been turning the arboretum in to an impressive Kayenta attraction including a variety of new desert plants, many new sculptures and upgraded landscaping. On your next visit to Xetava or the Center For the Arts be sure to take an extra few minutes to stroll through the pathways in the arboretum.
Your community arboretum was created, managed and improved by residents in Kayenta who consider it to be another special feature of the area we live in. If you want to see it grow we would love to welcome you in to our all volunteer organization. Just email or call Roger Head, rbhkayenta@gmail.com; 435-632-1814 for additional information.
If you love plants and gardening….
A phenomenal new resource is now available to guide you in creating your Kayenta landscaping, available on the Kayenta HOA website.
The Kayenta ACC Landscaping Committee has just released a new guide to plants currently suggested for use, listing plant characteristics such as typical height and width, growth rate and—perhaps most useful—whether the species is available at local nurseries.
There are links attached to each of the plant IDs and names which lead to images of the plants and in-depth information available online.
In addition, the guide specifies in what areas plants can be used, such as the natural area, the transitional area or in a courtyard. A “Notes” section includes other advice and things to know about a given plant.
This user-friendly Guide to Kayenta Plants is located in the ACC’s Landscaping Documents.
The Kayenta ACC meetings are held the third Tuesday of each month, 1:00 pm in the Theater for the Arts. A hard copy of the agenda is posted in the Kayenta Homes & Properties office the Thursday before the meeting.
Questions? Ellen Nathan
Phone: 435-652-8333
Email EllenShonto Point HOA Meetings
The Shonto HOA Board meets regularly during the year avoiding some summer months. All meetings are from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM on the third Wednesday of the month in the Theatre for the Arts, located in the Kayenta Art Village.
Taviawk HOA Board Meetings
The Board plans to meet on the Thursday after the ACC meeting (which is the 3rd Tuesday of each month) bi-monthly at 9:30 am at The Management Group (formerly, F1 Property Management)
The Kayenta Concept
The Kayenta Concept is a philosophy that has steered the development of our exceptional community since its inception. The standards that underlie that concept are enforced by the Architectural Control Committee (ACC), which serves both the Shonto Point and Taviawk HOAs. The pre-amble to the 2021 ACC Handbook lays out the basics of the architectural rules that have been followed to create the homes and land-scape we live in.
When your home was designed the Kayenta Concept was front and center. The ACC reviewed your design to evaluate whether it followed the rules, and the ACC monitored construction of your home through landscaping and occupation, again, reviewing adherence to design and construction standards. When you received your occupancy permit and construction deposit refund from the ACC, on-going compliance with the Kayenta Con-cept became the responsibility of your HOA Board of Directors. Your Board has the authority to perpetuate the Kayenta Concept into the future and gladly accepts that role.
The Kayenta Concept is worth reviewing to remind us that what we have here has only happened because of the rules Kayenta developer Terry Marten set up to own, build and live in Kayenta. His vision and the governing documents he developed to achieve and maintain that vision established the Kayenta HOAs and gave them the responsibility and authority to enforce the CC&Rs that underlie the beauty and value we all enjoy
For Appointments with a specific department call:
Administration: 435-628-0606
Building: 435-634-9753
Parks or Cemetery: 435-634-7719
Public Works: 435-634-0689
Dispatch: 435-634-5730 or Animal Control: 435-628-1049
Meetings the 2nd Monday of every month. For more details contact our bookclub
Email submissions / changes to kayentaconnection@rdicreative.com with “Kayenta Connection (month)” in the subject line. Our Kayenta Connection Newsletter updates the 1st of the Month. Please submit 6 days prior to the end of the month to be included.
The Kayenta Connection is a publication that is focused on the Kayenta Community (residents, visitors and other interested folks). Information and articles should appeal to our Kayenta readers and reflect the spirit of our community. The KC cannot be responsible for mistakes submitted by the contributor. We do not accept advertisements for services or events other than those provided by a Kayenta resident who is advertising their business/service to our community. The KC supports promotion of businesses located within the Kayenta Art Village.
The information submitted does not imply sponsorship or reflect the views and opinion of Kayenta Homes & Properties or Kayenta Development. Content not deemed appropriate for our readers will not be published. All information published in the KC is subject to editing.
Sign up for the Kayenta Connection. We will send you monthly reminders when our next issue of the Kayenta Connection is ready to view online. Sign up to stay connected.
If you know someone who would like to read a “hard copy” version of the Kayenta Connection, we are now providing a downloadable PDF. It can be printed on any personal printer. It is a low-resolution file to keep the file size manageable. It is a conversion from an online version, so some font sizes may be small. Print a few test pages first. Please note that it will require at least 25 to 30 sheets of paper.