Happy 4th of July
As a reminder, Ivins City has designated Kayenta a no-firework zone.
You can still enjoy a fireworks display on July 4th presented by the City of St. George from many viewing locations.
CITY OF ST. GEORGE
Get ready for a day full of fun and excitement! The parade kicks off bright and early at 7:45 AM, and trust us—you and your family won’t want to miss it!
But the fun doesn’t stop there! End the night with a breathtaking fireworks show at 10:00 PM, lighting up the sky over Greater Zion Stadium at Utah Tech University. It’s the perfect way to wrap up an unforgettable day! Please note: Entrance to the stadium itself requires a ticket to the KONY Country 4th of July Celebration.
For more information follow the link below.
To start your 4th of July evening celebration before the fireworks, head to the Kayenta Art Village and enjoy our own First Friday’s Event.
Happening right here in your “hood,” it’s the perfect place to enjoy some music, food, friends, and art in YOUR community. Check out the lineup below.
First Fridays
July 4
Happening on the first Friday of every month, September through July! Enjoy live music, food trucks, and a pop-up boutique market in the Kayenta Art Village beginning at 5:00 pm, with film screenings in the theater presented by DOCUTAH.
FREE • Live Music in the Courtyard
Runaway Fire • 5:30p-7:30p
Visit Make Space: 5:00p-7:00p
Film Screening: 1776, 7:30p, $10
Guest Vendors: Desert Rain Jewelry, John Baca, Camarena’s Arts and Cleaning, Desert Gem Permanent Jewelry LLC, NKYazi Creations, Alisa Harris Glass Designs, Faux Real Art
Food Trucks: 2 Rez Gurls Lemonade
First Friday's Film Screening
July 4
A lively and witty musical that brings to life the dramatic debates of the Second Continental Congress as America’s founding fathers struggle to declare independence. With humor, heart, and history, 1776 captures the spirit and tension of a nation on the brink of revolution.
Runtime: 2hr 21m
CineSizzle!
Hot Days. Cool Films.
This July, escape the brutal heat and dive into a different kind of desert experience with CineSizzle!—a film series where the only thing sizzling is the lineup. From air-conditioned afternoon escapes to breezy sunset screenings, we’re bringing you a handpicked mix of fun, quirky, and unforgettable films, curated by our staff and board.
Expect the unexpected—from cult classics to indie gems and everything in between. Whether you’re looking to cool off or just enjoy something different, CineSizzle! delivers cinematic joy in the heart of the desert.
Book individual tickets for $10, or purchase the CineSizzle Full Package, which includes all nine films for only $50!
Clue
July 11
The whodunit board game comes to life as guests are invited to a swanky mansion to learn who is blackmailing them.
The Candidate
July 12
Robert Redford stars as an idealistic lawyer reluctantly running for U.S. Senate. As his campaign gains traction, he’s forced to confront the compromises of politics. A sharp satire, The Candidate explores the cost of authenticity and the hollowness behind media-driven electoral success.
The Mostly Serious History of Wine
July 13
This witty documentary blends comedy with historical insight, tracing wine’s evolution from ancient rituals to modern tasting rooms. With playful narration and unexpected facts, it explores how wine shaped culture, religion, and trade—offering a mostly accurate, always entertaining, tour through the global history of vino.
Driveways
July 18
In this quietly powerful drama, a young boy and his single mother forge an unexpected connection with their elderly neighbor. Directed by Andrew Ahn, Driveways is a tender meditation on loneliness, intergenerational friendship, and finding family in unlikely places.
Pan’s Labyrinth
July 19
Set in post–Civil War Spain, Guillermo del Toro’s dark fantasy follows young Ofelia as she escapes into a haunting mythological world. Blending harsh reality with magical realism, Pan’s Labyrinth is a visually stunning tale of resistance, innocence, and the enduring power of imagination.
Cinema Paradiso
July 20
A nostalgic love letter to cinema, this Italian classic follows a boy’s lifelong bond with a small-town movie projectionist. Through laughter and tears, Cinema Paradiso celebrates the magic of film, the pain of growing up, and the bittersweet beauty of memory.
Dave Made a Maze
July 25
An artist named Dave builds a maze in his apartment, and he is soon trapped within when it becomes a larger-than-life labyrinth. His friends set out to save him, but their rescue mission is jeopardized by the fantastical creatures that lurk in his lair.
Kinky Boots
July 26
After inheriting his family’s failing shoe factory, Charlie finds salvation in an unlikely partnership with drag queen Lola. Based on a true story, Kinky Boots is a heartwarming comedy about stepping out of your comfort zone—and into a fabulous pair of heels.
Forks Over Knives
July 27
This compelling documentary advocates for a whole-food, plant-based diet to combat chronic illness. Featuring expert interviews, real-life case studies, and striking health statistics, Forks Over Knives challenges viewers to rethink food’s role in preventing disease and promoting long-term wellness.
Visit our website for information and tickets to all our amazing events.
We look forward to seeing you at the Center for the Arts in Kayenta.
Kayenta Community
The local perspective. Our businesses and residents news and events.
The importance of wearing a bike helmet
In Tina Fey’s book “Bossypants,” she recounts various funny and reflective anecdotes from her life. There is a part where she talks about a man at the YMCA in Evanston, Illinois, who shares his experience of a bike accident he had when he wasn’t wearing a helmet. This story highlights the importance of wearing a helmet while cycling to prevent serious injuries. It’s one of those moments that blends humor with an important message about safety.
During the late 70’s and early 80’s, it was rare to see people wearing bike helmets. I worked at a grocery store close to Tina Fey at the YMCA, and too met this same man numerous times. He became a nuisance to my co-workers at the store, but I never forgot his message. Wear a helmet. I found it humorous that he also left an impression on Tina Fey, enough for her to write about in her memoir.
This past month of June, during a short one-week period, three people close to me had serious bike accidents within this area. All of them will thankfully recover and were all wearing helmets.
Jeff Sproul, the broker here at Kayenta Homes and Properties, woke up alone on a remote dirt road with no memory of how he crashed his e-bike. Jeff was riding with a small group of Kayenta friends when he turned back a bit earlier than his group to return to the campsite. The last thing he remembers is waking up tangled in his bike and calling 911. To his surprise, help arrived in only minutes. This was do to his Apple watch “fall detection” service, which notified the EMTs before he was even able to call. This valuable feature uses GPS and an impact alert to notify first responders in the case of an accident, and the victim is unable to get help.
Emergency services were automatically alerted while he was still unconscious, and his helmet saved his life. See photo
Another friend and very experienced rider was hit by a car from behind, breaking off the rear section of his bike and sending him airborne, before crashing into the pavement. He nearly missed getting run over by the inattentive driver. The cyclist had no warning whatsoever, since the driver came from behind at full speed, not ever slowing down.
The driver said he didn’t see the cyclist until after he hit him, despite his bright shirt and flashers. My friend was extremely lucky. His head was protected, and his injuries will heal. See the photo of the bike
Finally, another driver failed to properly use his turn indicator, causing a friend to skid out to avoid the car, leaving her unable to get up off the ground in the middle of an intersection with an injured pelvis.
This driver left the scene, but many kind people came to her assistance, blocking traffic, and she was able to get out of the road to safety. See the photo of friends
One never knows when an accident will occur, so let’s focus on the things we can easily control.
Cycling Safety in the Desert
- Wear a Helmet: Always wear a properly fitting helmet to protect your head in case of falls or accidents.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry plenty of water and drink regularly to avoid dehydration. The desert heat can be intense!
- Tell Someone Your Plans: Inform a friend or family member about your cycling route and expected return time. This ensures someone knows where you are in case of an emergency.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear bright, breathable clothing and apply sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
- Know Your Limits: Be aware of your physical limits and avoid overexertion in extreme heat.
- Wear an Apple Watch with “fall detection”. This will alert emergency services in case of an accident.
Our office is open 7-days a week to help with all your Kayenta real estate needs.
Your Kayenta Home and Properties Sales Team:
Jeff Sproul, Principal Broker
Steve McAllister & Naomi Doyle, Sales Agents
435-628-7234
Celebrating success and the spirit of volunteerism
In a time of political divisiveness and conflict, it is vital to celebrate the contributions of community volunteers who bring us together and make our community a better place to live. These motivations drive not only the individuals who bring their own time and energy to community projects, but were also the inspiration for the City of Ivins recognizing the incredible contributions of local organizations during its National Volunteer Month in April.
The Desert Preservation Initiative (DPI) was among those honored, for “remarkable volunteer spirit, a cornerstone of our community’s identity.” DPI President Chuck Warren was quick to point out that although his name is on the certificate presented, “the honor belongs to the cohesive, supportive, team motivated by our mission and the vision to make our community safer from fire and restore native plants in the washes.”
Evidence of DPI’s growth and success includes:
- Some 35 projects of tamarisk removal completed, driven by a carefully researched, scientific, and documented process, with 3500 hours of volunteer labor dedicated to removal projects alone. This process includes meticulous monitoring of removal sites to ensure regrowth is eliminated and restoration and replanting of 17 native trees in the Kayenta and Wisteria Way washes, so far.
- A growing network of partners and friends, including community, city, county, regional, and state officials as well as the support of artists in the Southern Utah Woodturners who create art pieces for sale in Gallery 873.
- Strong local support from Kayenta developer Terry Marten and consistent approval of requests for tamarisk removal by the Architectural Control Committee and its Landscaping Sub-Committee.
As reported in the June issue of Travel and Leisure, Utah has the highest rate of volunteerism in the nation, with more than 44 percent of the population actively volunteering, contributing to its being among the happiest state for retirees and among the top five happiest states in the U.S. Those statistics reflect the work of Ivins Inspired, which supports residents in their desire to help by publicizing volunteer opportunities for a wide variety of groups on its website and spreading the word about what local groups do.
You Spoke. We Listened.
Now We Need Your Help.
The 2023 Ivins General Plan Survey results showed that the residents of Ivins overwhelmingly prefer that public art be financed through private donations rather than through the use of our tax dollars. We heard you.
In response, the Ivins City Arts Commission is asking for private donations to purchase the Lyman Whitaker Wind Sculptures that are located in the roundabout at Kwavasa and Highway 91.
A standout from last year’s Art on Loan program, they were installed in September, 2024. They are scheduled to be returned to the artist on October 1st unless funds can be raised to purchase them.
Many people in our community have said that they would like the sculptures to remain in place as a “gateway” when entering Ivins from Highway 91. They are a good counter-balance to the horse sculptures that welcome people entering Ivins from Snow Canyon Parkway. Thanks to a generous donation from Lyman Whittaker, the purchase price is $48,700 – 25% less than the retail cost.
The Arts Commission would greatly appreciate your support of this project. For information on how to contribute, please visit the Ivins City Arts Commission website, https://https://www.ivinsartscommission.com/donate. For information about purchasing one of the sculptures “In Memoriam” with an accompanying plaque, please email the Ivins City Arts Commission at IvinsArtsCommission@IvinsUtah.gov.
Let’s keep these iconic sculptures spinning in Ivins permanently.
Unique Experiences,
Gastronomic Delights,
Local Perspective,
Exceptional Art.
Painter
Micqaela Jones
“From the beginning, my goal has been to create paintings that people connect with, art that tells a story, either about nature or my culture”
featured at
Datura Gallery
Kayenta Resident Wayne Pennington is running for the Ivins City Council
Ivins City is holding elections soon. While the Mayor position is only contested by one candidate (Kevin Smith), and will not be part of the primary, there are seven candidates for the City Council, making an August primary necessary to narrow the field to four candidates to enter the November general election.
Below you will find a link to my website which is intended to provide you with information about myself, Wayne Pennington, one of the candidates for City Council. In the navigation bar, you will first find a “highlights” section briefly describing my views on some subjects and background. You will also find an “About Wayne” section, which provides more insight into my personal history and general thoughts for the City of Ivins.
As the website matures, additional “posts” will be added on several subjects of interest to Ivins residents. These will include Water, Growth, Financial, and other matters.
Remember to vote; the primary is just as important as the general election.
Of course, I hope that after you review the rest of my website, you will vote for me, but you must make up your own mind after learning about the other candidates.
Election Information for Ivins City Council.
Primary Date: August 12, 2025
June 2025 Ivins City Council Updates
Mike Scott, Council Member
Going Out of Town?
Ballots for the August 12th City Council primary election will be mailed in late July. There are two city council positions open (Lance Anderson’s and mine). If you will be out of town around the end of this month, please get an absentee ballot sent to wherever you will be. Please do this today to be sure you get your ballot.
The Post Office will not forward ballots even if you are having your mail forwarded.
If you are out of town and have forwarded your mail, your ballot will NOT be forwarded. The only way you can receive your ballot at a different address is to update your mailing address. I believe you have to do this by August 1st.
Note: Don’t wait until the last minute to mail your ballot. Likely, your ballot will not be postmarked the day you mail it. That may take a couple of days. And if it is postmarked too late, your vote won’t count.
How to receive ballots at your out-of-town address:
You can “update your mailing address” at https://secure.utah.gov/voterreg/index.html (see screenshot below)
You can enter start and end dates in the online form.
You can also fill in a PDF form for a temporary change of address at https://www.washco.utah.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Alternate-Address-Form5-23.pdf. I’m not certain this is the best way to do i,t though. I worry about the information getting input in time.
Why a Property Tax Increase Is on the Table
On August 14th, we’ll hold a “truth in taxation” public hearing to consider approving an $860,000 property tax increase. That would add about $122 per year to the tax bill of a primary residence assessed at $750,000, about $10 a month.
All of the City Council agrees we need a tax increase to maintain services and avoid long-term financial problems. But not everyone is comfortable with the full $860,000 I’m proposing, and that’s what we’ll be discussing at the August public hearing.
I realize that pushing for a property tax increase while I’m running for re-election is probably the worst campaign strategy in the history of local politics. But I believe it’s the right thing to do. We need to be honest with residents about the numbers and make smart decisions before small problems become big ones.
For the full story, including why I think $860,000 is the right number (and why I picked the worst time ever to suggest it), see the article on my website at https://www.mikescott4ivins.com/?p=4709.
My Take on Growth, Roads, Water, & More
Robert MacFarlane, an Ivins resident who pays a lot of attention to local issues and hosts the 435 Podcast to give residents information on city issues across the county, sent a questionnaire to all city council candidates. He asked about land use and zoning, infrastructure, public health and safety, community engagement in development, economic diversification, traffic, and water.
I wrote detailed responses to all seven questions, but they were too big and blew up his online survey form. So I redid those responses as short summaries. That worked. But it left out a lot of valuable information. So, I posted my detailed answers at www.mikescott4ivins.com/?p=4738
More City Information
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.
Community Spotlight
Janell Bassett, Editor
Kimberly and Dan Beck: Portraying and Preserving the Natural World
The Becks bird watching in Pine Valley
Like most of us, Kimberly and Dan Beck are refreshed by opportunities to spend time in nature. Over the years they have devoted much of their time to preserving and celebrating the natural world—she as an artist, he working with nonprofits dedicated to protecting natural landscapes.
Their move to Kayenta five years ago opened new doors for both of them in these pursuits. “Here, man and nature actually live side by side in harmony,” Kimberly says, “a concept that led us to choose Kayenta over other areas.”
Kimberly is an internationally known artist with a primary focus on birds in their habitats. Growing up on a ranch in northern California where her dad built aerobatic biplanes, she awoke daily to a chorus of birdsong, instead of the blare of an alarm clock. Heading to the University of Michigan to major in English Literature, an elective in drawing eventually led her to a hands-on creative career. After further studies at the California College of the Arts, she took a job with The Nature Company as an illustrator, creating artwork for posters, greeting cards, t-shirts and umbrellas.
Originally from a suburb of Detroit, Dan also headed to the University of Michigan, where he studied economics and met Kim during their freshman year. Later, he also worked for a couple of years in California before completing an MBA from Duke University. A job offer from Kraft in marketing took the Becks to Chicago, where he began a career in consumer branded food. He enjoyed the challenges presented and the opportunity to develop his management skills working for Nabisco and the consumer divisions of Monsanto and Cargill. Along the way, he was recruited into the world of zero calories sweeteners, working with Equal and Truvia, before launching his own company, Pentas, which sells a fruit-based natural sweetener, Llinea Monk Fruit.
Three children saw Kimberly taking a hiatus from her art, pursuing creative work in sewing, creating sports videos and organizing local garden walks. Dan was involved on the board of the Tryon Farm Institute (TFI), a land trust in Indiana that manages 112 acres of land across a development where the Becks owned a home. That work resulted in the farmstead being named to the National Register of Historic Places and receipt of state grants for the restoration of prairies and wetlands.
With the kids grown, Kimberly began rebuilding her art portfolio, moving from water color and pencil illustrations to oil. Having discovered birdwatching as a hobby, “my fascination with birds began to reveal itself in my art,” she says. In Kayenta, learning about the birds of the desert inspired new works. She walks regularly, often to Fire Lake, taking pictures to add to the thousands of nature photographs she draws upon as she paints in her home studio.
Dan was inspired by the work of the Desert Preservation Initiative, which he now serves as vice president, in reducing fire risk and enhancing the native habitat through the removal of the invasive tamarisk. He continues to run his business as well, looking to retire in the next few years.
Both subscribe to the importance of man living side by side with nature. Kimberly touches on this idea in symbolic representations, such as a painting of a bird perched on a rusty pipe. Dan joins in field work and helps organize the DPI volunteers who have put in 4,000+ hours in restoring the natural environment in Kayenta. Together, they bring their passions to bear in capturing and maintaining the beauty and harmony of our desert community.
For more information on Kimberly’s artwork, please visit her website.
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.
Located in beautiful Kayenta.
Escape the heat. Create something cool. Check out new classes available this summer.
MakeSpace is here to help you achieve your artistic goals. We offer a welcoming space for creative exploration and learning. At MakeSpace, our mission is to inspire creativity and provide a platform for artists of all levels to grow and connect. We cater to the creative dabbler, the serious student, and the professional artist.
Our instructors are a key part of what makes MakeSpace unique. We host internationally renowned visiting instructors who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, as well as local experts who are deeply rooted in the art community. This blend of talent ensures that our students receive a diverse and enriching learning experience. And, we are committed to providing small class sizes to maximize those learning opportunities.
Get more details about the art classes available this summer at https://makespacekayenta.com/
Consider joining one of our creative open studios where you can create art with the support of an experienced instructor.
Maybe the Abstract Alcohol Ink for Beginners class will interest you where you can dive into the vibrant world of alcohol ink painting in this inspiring class designed for adults of all skill levels.
Or join our Summer Oil Painting Studio (7-week session) that starts in July. You will have the freedom to work on your own projects at your own pace, while receiving guidance and support from our popular and experienced instructor, Matt Pectol
Or sign up for the one spot left in our 3-day oil painting extravaganza in September. Transform your landscapes during this incredible oil painting workshop with the one and only David Shevlino—a master of the alla prima technique! Known for sharing his brilliant techniques with students across the United States and Europe, we are beyond excited to welcome him back to our corner of the world.
MakeSpace Open Studio
Friday, July 4, 5:30 – 8:00 pm
A First Friday Event
Get a behind-the-scenes look at this hub of creativity.
Your Community. Your Classes. Your Space.
View the full schedule online.
Information & Class Registration
And, while you are there, register your email to receive monthly updates on classes.
MAKESPACE | 918 ART VILLAGE WAY | IVINS, UTAH 84738
Petite Feast Dinner Club
LADIES, PLEASE JOIN US FOR LUNCH WITH YOUR TAVIAWK FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS
Thursday, August 14th, 2025
~Reserve Your Seat at the Table~
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.
MENU
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
To reserve your seat at the table please click on the link below
Petite Feast Dinner Club
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
VIRTUAL DINNER PARTY #107
CHOCOLATE ORANGE MERINGUE PIE
CHOCOLATE ORANGE MERINGUE PIE
I believe that pie baking is an art form. The science and artistry involved in bringing such disparate ingredients harmoniously together to create the perfect dessert is a beautiful thing. The best pies have a flaky, tender crust, a well-balanced and flavorful filling and an appealing and tasty topping. Each component works together to create a singular, mouthwatering bite.
But scratch-made pies carry meaning far beyond their buttery crust and tasty interior. Baking a pie is a nurturing and comforting act that connects us to the past and calls to mind simpler, more meaningful pleasures. The thoughtful and patient activity of rolling out a pie shell always takes me back to my family kitchen, worn recipe cards, and my mother’s delicate hands carefully crimping the edges of her Thanksgiving pies.
So, in honor of the cherished tradition of pie baking, I propose that all you Kayenta pie lovers, crust connoisseurs, and bakers of any skill level, roll up your sleeves and bake your version of the perfect pie this month. The annual Ivins City Heritage Days Pie Baking Contest is right around the corner and we want to taste your flaky masterpiece.
For inspiration, I’ve included my recipe for an unusual chocolate orange meringue pie. The crust comes together easily using ground chocolate sandwich cookies and the simple filling and topping can be endlessly customized with minimal tweaking. If your experiment turns out to be a winner, please consider entering the City’s SHOW US HOW YOU ROLL pie baking contest. The contest, now in its 3rd year, will take place Saturday, September 13th, at Ivins City Park. I guarantee it will be bigger, sweeter, and more delicious than ever!
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 #107
CHOCOLATE ORANGE MERINGUE PIE
CRUST INGREDIENTS:
2 C ground Oreo cookies (about 25)
4 T melted, unsalted butter
FILLING INGREDIENTS:
1 C sugar
¼ C + 2T cornstarch
11/2 C water
Pinch of salt
6 egg yolks – reserve 4 whites for meringue topping
Zest of 1 orange
¼ C juice from 1 orange
¼ C juice from 1 lemon
2 T unsalted butter
MERINGUE INGREDIENTS:
4 reserved egg whites
¼ t cream of tartar
8 T granulated sugar
METHOD:
Prepare crust: Grind Oreos in a food processor into fine crumb. In a medium mixing bowl combine crumbs with melted butter. Carefully pat mixture into an ungreased pie tin taking care to pat the crumbs evenly along the bottom and up the sides of the pan to make a uniform base. Freeze shell for 20 minutes – this step is not required, but I think it helps reduce slumping in oven. Remove from freezer and place on rimmed, parchment lined baking sheet. Bake for 6-8 minutes at 350. Remove from oven and cool completely before filling.
Prepare the filling: Mix sugar, water, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring mixture to a boil, whisking constantly until mixture is thick and translucent. WHILE WHISKING, add egg yolks, both juices and zest. Bring back to a simmer and add butter. Remove from heat. Let cool slightly and then pour into cooled cookie crust. Set aside at room temperature while you prepare the meringue.
Prepare the meringue topping: Beat egg whites in the bowl of an electric mixer until frothy. Add cream of tartar and increase speed to high. Slowly add granulated sugar 1 T at a time until glossy peaks form. Spread the meringue decoratively over the top of the filling. Bake for 10 minutes in a 350 degree oven until meringue is nicely browned and cooked through.
*To prevent weeping, store at room temperature.
THIS IS YOUR MOMENT – WE WANT TO HEAR YOUR STORY
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 6, 2025
Join us for Coyote Tales live storytelling outdoors at the Ivins City Heritage Days Festival
THE THEME FOR THE EVENING’S STORIES IS: IMPOSSIBLE
Prepare a story about defying the odds. Getting a flat but still making your flight. A hole in one, hitting the high note, or remembering your dang password! Running into a grade school friend halfway around the world, turning in your first draft, or finding a needle in a haystack. Was there a time when you thought “there’s no way,” yet you persisted? Do tell.
Don’t want to get on stage? No problem – come be part of the audience and enjoy a night of laughter, connection and stories told the Coyote Tales way. Everyone is welcome!
If you are interested in sharing a story on stage, please contact Victoria through the Coyote Tales website https://coyotetalesstories.com/
everyone has a story – Vic
Coyote Tales events are funded by Petite Feast, Utah Humanities, Kayenta Homes and Properties & Black Desert Resort. WE are grateful for the in-kind support of Desert Dweller Realty and SBDance. All proceeds from indoor events have been donated to local nonprofits and all outdoor events are FREE
Show us How You Roll Kayenta bakers and you could win one of these great prizes.
Calling all non-professional Ivins bakers for the Third Annual Ivins City Heritage Days Pie Baking Contest Saturday September 13th at Ivins City Heritage Park (50N 50W)
Grand Prize – The Café Couture Countertop Oven with Air Fry
Second Place – Baker’s Specialty serving platters and cake stand with stainless steel skillet
Third Place– Professional quality baker’s ingredient and kitchen small wares gift basket
Prizes generously provided by Appliance Wholesalers Plus, Boulevard Home and Petite Feast
435.656.0165 xetavarestaurants@outlook.com
Xetava Cafe is locally owned, and unlike anywhere you’ve ever been. Designed to be a respite from the bustle of modern life, the building is nestled under the giant red cliffs of Ivins, surrounded by the Kayenta Art Village and Center for the Arts.
Hours of Operation
Monday – Friday, 11 am – 8 pm
Saturday & Sunday, 10 am – 8 pm
Saturday & Sunday Brunch, 10 am – 3 pm
435.656.0165 xetavarestaurants@outlook.com
The menu at The Rusted Cactus provides unique dishes that capture the flavor of the season. Within the walls, the Lewis and MacKay families hope to create a dining experience with shared plates that will cultivate a love of food, friendship and new flavors.
Hours of Operation
Monday – Saturday, 4 – 8 pm
Health, Fitness & Wellness
Kayenta’s locally run gyms, fitness classes, spas, group workouts, wellness activities, and mindful experiences.
“Well-being is about the combination of our love for what we do each day, the quality of our relationships, the security of our finances, the vibrancy of our physical health, and the pride we take in what we have contributed to our communities. Most importantly, it’s about how these five elements interact.”
– Tom Rath
Elevate Fitness
Coming Attractions at ELEVATE Studio in Kayenta!
New equipment coming to the studio!
Freemotion dual cable cross machine & Smith machine
Plus, New perks and offerings for members!
Soul Space retreats coming 2025
New Classes Coming!
Yoga 101
9:30 am Thursday
Vinyasa Morning Flow
10:00 am Saturdays
Open Gym
Current Class Offerings
ElevateFit / ElevateFITFusion
9:30 am, Mon, Wed, Fri
Elevate Yoga
9:30 am Thur, 10 am Sat
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.
Kayenta Home Yoga
“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
Find Your Joy Yoga
Find Your Joy Yoga
Tuesdays at 9:30 am
At John Yohmans’s Elevate Fitness Studio in Kayenta!
Classes are $15 • Punch cards are available for $75 (5 classes)
No sign-up is required!
Call/text: 435-862-7743
Javier’s Massage
Javier Guzman LMT/LMMT
Massage is medicine
for the body and mind
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
Kayenta Pickleball Group (KPG)
Does Pickleball Pique Your Interest?
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 DentonDesert Rose Labyrinth
The labyrinth is sacred ground, a place of rest and renewal.
The 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
Trips and Trails
Kayenta Exploration Group
We are on Summer Break
Trips will resume in October
For details contact Charles Dillier at 435-656-1956
Community Advocates
Are you a Kayenta resident? Do you have a cause or passion that you are personally involved with in the St. George area?
If so, let your neighbors know right here.
DPI – Desert Preservation Initiative
Advocate: Chuck Warren
June 2025
DPI workshop: Building a culture of safety
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.
“Ivins Inspired” Volunteer Program
Advocate: Victoria Topham
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.
Habitat for Humanity of Southwest Humanity
Advocate: Patrick Barickman
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
INKAS – Ivins No Kill Animal Supporters
Advocate: Lois Hewitt
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.
Santa Clara-Ivins Animal Shelter
Bailee Mabe, Shelter Manager
474 North 200 West, Ivins
435-628-1049
Hours by appointment:
Monday – Saturday, 8am – 3 pm
Ivins Night Sky Initiative
Advocate: Kai Reed
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 Sky
Friends of Snow Canyon State Park
Advocates: Lori Capshaw
Events
EventsWe’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 Kayenta
Advocate: Ray Borg
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.
Community and City Resources
Kayenta resident-owned services, Kayenta businesses, and Kayenta enrichment programs that benefit the Kayenta community and Ivins City
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.
Kayenta Committees
Board opportunities, landscaping, and ACC & HOA contact information.
Kayenta Desert Arboretum
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.
Kayenta Landscaping Committee
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.
ACC & HOA Information
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
Ivins City Dumpster Dates and Blucan Recycling Calendars
Ivins City Offices are open.
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
Ongoing Events and Activities
Weekly and monthly gatherings
Kayenta Book Lovers
Meetings the 2nd Monday of every month. For more details contact our bookclub
Submissions
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.
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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.
Download a printable pdf of our monthly Kayenta Connection here.
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.