The Independent

07/17/2025

The Washington City Arts Council (WCAC) has opened its call for artists for All About Art, a newly reimagined one-day fine art showcase happening Saturday, October 18, from 10 AM to 5 PM at Heritage Hall, 25 E Telegraph Street in Washington.
This intimate, thoughtfully curated event is more than an art show—it’s a celebration of local creativity and connection. Set in a welcoming, gallery-style environment, All About Art invites residents to meet the artists, hear the stories behind the work, and support the thriving talent right here in Washington County.

“This isn’t your typical art show,” say organizers. “It’s like a gathering of neighbors who appreciate creativity, storytelling, and local expression.”
Visual artists across all media are encouraged to apply, including painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, textiles, glass, and mixed media. The event is open to both emerging and established fine artists who reside in Washington County.

Calling all Washington County artists! The Washington City Arts Council is hosting a reimagined All About Art event this October—apply now to be part of this intimate, one-day showcase of local talent.

07/16/2025

Extreme fire behavior continues to fuel the growth of the Dragon Bravo Fire, which ignited on July 4 due to lightning and has now consumed an estimated 5,716 acres on the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. As of Monday morning, the fire remains at 0% containment, with more than 70 structures—including the iconic Grand Canyon Lodge—confirmed lost during weekend fire activity.
The Southwest Area Complex Incident Management Team 4 officially assumed command of the incident at 6 AM on July 14. With 295 personnel assigned, crews are working both daytime and nighttime shifts to suppress the fire and protect remaining structures, cultural sites, and natural resources.

Evacuations and Closures Expand
In addition to the North Rim’s full closure for the remainder of the 2025 season, multiple popular trails and sites in the inner canyon are closed to visitors due to smoke accumulation and limited emergency access.

The Dragon Bravo Fire continues to burn unchecked on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, destroying over 70 structures and prompting major closures. The fire remains 0% contained as crews work day and night to suppress the blaze.

07/16/2025

Firefighters continue battling the White Sage Fire, which has now burned 51,922 acres approximately 15 miles southeast of Fredonia, Arizona. With 0% containment and 572 personnel on scene, fire activity remains high—particularly along the southeastern perimeter where resources are now concentrated.
While fire runs earlier this week reached up to 7 miles per day, Monday’s growth slowed significantly to 2,636 acres, aided by favorable weather and successful ground efforts. The fire has now scorched through areas previously burned by the 2020 Mangum Fire, where invasive cheatgrass is contributing to rapid spread.

Suppression Progress and Spike Camp Strategy
On the northwestern flank, shifting winds and dry fuels led to increased fire activity. However, crews on the northern edge were able to go direct—building control lines right along the fire perimeter where conditions allowed.

07/16/2025

The City of St. George is inviting the public to join in the grand reopening of Christensen Park on Wednesday, July 17 at 9 AM. Located at 3764 S 1470 W, the park now features a brand-new, modernized playground—one of many projects funded through the city’s Trails, Parks and Recreation General Obligation (G.O.) Bond.
To sweeten the celebration, free donuts will be provided while supplies last.
Approved by 63% of voters in 2023, the G.O. Bond has already funded a variety of high-impact upgrades across the city. Christensen Park is the latest site to showcase the city’s commitment to building safe, inclusive, and accessible recreation spaces for the entire community.“We’re investing in safe, inclusive and modern recreational spaces that serve St. George residents of all ages,” said Shane Moore, Director of Parks and Community Services. “Christensen Park’s new playground is a shining example of what we can achieve together, so it is important to take the time to celebrate this.

Join the City of St. George on July 17 for the grand reopening of Christensen Park, featuring a brand-new playground funded by the G.O. Bond. The celebration starts at 9 AM and includes free donuts while supplies last.

07/15/2025

Celebrate Utah’s heritage in true Southern Utah style with an unforgettable 24th of July Pioneer Day Celebration at Jackson Flat Reservoir, just south of Kanab. Starting at 4 PM, this free, family-friendly event promises a full evening of fun, food, music, and fireworks—and yes, the ever-popular dunk tank is back!

While organizers are keeping a tight lid on exactly who will be taking the plunge, we do know at least one brave football coach is stepping up to the challenge. For just $1, you'll get three chances to dunk a local (and maybe your favorite frenemy). All proceeds from the dunk tank go to the Kane County Assistance Program (KCAP), so you can splash for a good cause.

Kids (and the young at heart) can enjoy a slip-n-slide and barrel train starting at 4 PM, and the entertainment kicks off shortly after. Seth Giddings gets things started at 4:30, just in time for the dunking action.

07/15/2025

In the heart of Duck Creek Village, a cozy little bakery is making a big impact, one slice of homemade sourdough at a time. Ground & Toasted is a sourdough toast and coffee shop founded by a small team with a whole lot of heart. But it’s more than just coffee and carbs, Ground & Toasted was created to be a warm, welcoming space for connection, comfort, and community. “We didn’t just want to sell food,” said Brandi Wren, the owner behind the vision. “We wanted to create a place that feels like home, where people can slow down, breathe, and enjoy something truly made with love.”

With a menu that rotates with the seasons and a focus on fresh, intentional ingredients, Ground & Toasted is putting Duck Creek on the map in a whole new way. From outdoor sips on the porch to hosting small events and pop-ups, the team is passionate about building something meaningful in the mountains.
&Toasted

Discover how Ground & Toasted in Duck Creek Village is more than just a coffee shop — it’s a warm, welcoming space built on sourdough, connection, and small-town charm.

07/14/2025

Firefighters on the Forsyth Fire continue to make steady progress as containment grows to 72%. The wildfire, located near Pine Valley in Washington County, has now burned 15,673 acres since it was first reported on June 19. The fire was caused by lightning.
Sunday’s operations included strategic aerial drops on the southern edge of the fire, where flames in the canopy threatened to intensify. Tankers and helicopters worked to push the fire back down to the forest floor, enabling crews to safely engage on the ground.
Today, fire personnel will focus on suppression repair work on the western perimeter, particularly around Lloyd Canyon. The southern ridge above Oak Grove Campground remains a hotspot of concern, and crews are constructing both direct and indirect handlines to contain activity. A contingency group remains stationed in Oak Grove to monitor the area closely.

Fire crews have reached 72% containment on the Forsyth Fire near Pine Valley. Learn about current activity, evacuations, weather alerts, and safety updates.

07/14/2025

Get ready to shake, rattle, and roll as The Stage Door proudly presents All Shook Up, a jukebox musical that blends Elvis Presley’s greatest hits with the romantic twists of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. This fun, feel-good show runs July 31 through August 16, with performances every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 7:30 PM.

Directed by Randy Sly, with musical direction by Cathy Ford and choreography by John Graham, All Shook Up is a toe-tapping blend of 1950s rock and timeless theatrical storytelling. Set in a small town in 1955, the story begins when a leather-jacketed stranger rides in on his motorcycle and turns the town—and a few hearts—upside down.

Audiences will enjoy a lineup of beloved Elvis hits including “Jailhouse Rock,” “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” and, of course, “All Shook Up.” With mistaken identities, secret crushes, and plenty of hip-swiveling charm, this musical brings new life to Shakespeare’s classic comedy of love and disguise.

The Stage Door presents All Shook Up, a musical celebration of Elvis Presley and Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, July 31–August 16 at The Electric Theater in downtown St. George. Tickets at stagedoorutah.com.

07/13/2025

Grab your family, lawn chairs, and blankets, and join the City of St. George in kicking off the month-long celebration of National Park and Recreation Month. For the past 40 years, cities across the U.S. have observed this annual tradition, honoring the people and programs that make communities healthier, happier, and more connected.
Here in St. George, the celebration is packed with free events for all ages, highlighting the vital role of parks and recreation in creating vibrant public spaces and fostering community.
“Join us as we spotlight the people, programs and places that make St. George a stronger, more beautiful community,” said Shane Moore, Director of Parks and Community Services. “This year’s theme, ‘Build Together, Play Together,’ reminds us of the many, many contributions of the City of St.

07/12/2025

Grab your family, lawn chairs, and blankets, and join the City of St. George in kicking off the month-long celebration of National Park and Recreation Month. For the past 40 years, cities across the U.S. have observed this annual tradition, honoring the people and programs that make communities healthier, happier, and more connected.
Here in St. George, the celebration is packed with free events for all ages, highlighting the vital role of parks and recreation in creating vibrant public spaces and fostering community.
“Join us as we spotlight the people, programs and places that make St. George a stronger, more beautiful community,” said Shane Moore, Director of Parks and Community Services. “This year’s theme, ‘Build Together, Play Together,’ reminds us of the many, many contributions of the City of St. George’s outstanding Parks and Community Services Department.”

St.

St. George celebrates National Park and Recreation Month with family-friendly events all July long—movies, concerts, a park grand reopening, and more!

07/12/2025

If you’ve ever thought about trying hunting or trapping in Southern Utah, this fall may be your season. But before heading out into the field, first-timers need to complete either a hunter education course or enroll in Utah’s Trial Hunting Program. And for those curious about trapping, there’s a separate furharvester education course available too.
With big game hunts just around the corner and over-the-counter elk permits going on sale July 8, July and August are prime months to complete certification—especially before classes fill up.“Hunting is a great way to obtain your own local meat while getting outdoors and exploring our beautiful state,” said RaLynne Takeda, Hunter Education Program Manager for the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. “It’s also a powerful way to support conservation and build family traditions.”

Who Needs Hunter Education?
Anyone born after Dec.

07/11/2025

While bats are often associated with Halloween, summer is prime time for bat sightings around homes in Southern Utah. As baby bats, or pups, begin learning to fly, residents may notice more bat activity. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR) is reminding homeowners how to safely and legally manage bat encounters—and when to wait before intervening.

Bats in Utah
Utah is home to 18 confirmed species of bats, with the greatest variety found in the southern part of the state. These insect-eating mammals rely on standing water and are particularly active in warm months. Some species hibernate, some migrate, and others remain active year-round.
Most Utah bats hibernate solo or in small groups rather than large colonies, as seen in the eastern U.S. Five species migrate out of the state each fall and return in spring.

Bat Activity Peaks in Summer and Fall
Late summer often sees a spike in bat sightings, especially from migratory species like the Mexican free-tailed bat.

Baby bats take flight in summer across Southern Utah—here’s what you should know about avoiding conflict, protecting pups, and when to act.