Get ready for a festive day this Saturday, December 9th, with the annual Shop with a Cop event. The cheerful siren of Santa's helpers will echo from Hurricane to St. George. No need to be alarmed - it's just law enforcement officers spreading some Christmas cheer! 

The Shop with a Cop program has proven to be a heartwarming initiative that resonates positively in communities across Utah. Primarily held during the holiday season, this event brings law enforcement officers together with children for a special morning of shared experiences. Each child is carefully paired with an officer to enjoy a delightful breakfast and engage in a meaningful shopping excursion for warm clothing and holiday gifts. 

The children selected for this program are often those facing challenging circumstances, including being at-risk or disadvantaged. Some may have previously experienced negative interactions with law enforcement. By creating a one-on-one connection during Shop with a Cop, officers have the unique opportunity to turn these potentially adverse perceptions into positive ones. 

The program goes beyond the traditional law enforcement role, allowing officers to be not only protectors but also mentors and friends. This direct, personal interaction fosters a sense of trust and understanding between officers and the children they accompany. The impact extends beyond the immediate joy of the shopping experience, contributing to the broader goal of building positive relationships and breaking down barriers between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Through Shop with a Cop, law enforcement becomes an integral part of spreading holiday cheer and creating lasting positive memories for the children involved. 

We express our heartfelt gratitude to our exceptional local law enforcement officers. Their unwavering commitment to organizing and participating in this event year after year goes above and beyond their call of duty. These dedicated individuals not only protect and serve our community but also actively engage in initiatives that strengthen the bonds between law enforcement and the residents they safeguard. Their extraordinary efforts showcase the true spirit of community service, making a positive impact that resonates far beyond the holiday season. We extend our sincere appreciation to our local heroes for embodying the values of compassion, generosity, and community support. 

• Streamline your Thanksgiving preparations by tackling some cooking tasks in the days leading up to the event.
• Certain side dishes can be made ahead and stored, minimizing the workload on the big day.
• Consider chopping vegetables early, allowing you to focus on more intricate recipes when time is scarce.

• Embrace a communal spirit by adopting a potluck-style gathering.
• Request guests to contribute a dish, whether it's a side or dessert, fostering a collaborative and cost-effective celebration.
• Coordinate with guests to avoid duplicating dishes, ensuring a diverse and well-rounded menu.

• Don't shy away from accepting offers of assistance from guests.
• Delegating simple tasks, such as refilling appetizer plates or arranging table settings, can significantly lighten your workload.
• Encourage a cooperative atmosphere, making everyone feel involved in the preparations.

• Elevate the festive atmosphere by setting the table well in advance.
• Consider doing this the night before to alleviate stress on Thanksgiving Day.
• Use everyday dishes for simplicity or opt for disposable dinnerware to streamline cleanup.

• Create a designated drink station in a separate area to minimize congestion in the kitchen.
• Stock the station with a variety of beverages.
• Ensure accessibility by including a cooler with ice and an ample supply of cups.

• Greet your hungry guests with simple yet delightful appetizers.
• Offer options like cheese and crackers, chips and dip, or roasted nuts to keep everyone satisfied until the main feast.
• Place appetizers in a designated space outside the kitchen to maintain an organized cooking environment.

• Add a personal touch to your Thanksgiving celebration by crafting your own decorations.
• Engage in creative projects like a fall foliage garland, painted glassware, or other festive items.
• By incorporating handmade decor, you infuse warmth and authenticity into your home, setting the stage for a heartfelt gathering.

VA home loans have been a beacon of support for veterans seeking to realize the American Dream of homeownership for over 79 years. These loans stand as a tribute to the commitment and sacrifices made by our nation's servicemen and women. Understanding the numerous advantages of VA loans is a crucial step for those who've dedicated their lives to protecting our country.

Here are some fundamental benefits of VA Home Loans:

• Zero Down Payment: Qualified borrowers can take a significant step towards owning a home without the need for a down payment, alleviating financial stress during the purchase.
• Reduced Closing Costs: VA loans come with limits on various closing costs, which means more funds stay in the hands of our veterans during the home buying process.
• No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): Unlike many other loans, VA loans don't necessitate private mortgage insurance, ensuring that veterans can save on their monthly housing expenses.

Veterans United highlights the profound impact of these loans, stating: "For the vast majority of military borrowers, VA loans represent the most powerful lending program available. These $0-down payment mortgages have helped over 24 million service members achieve homeownership since 1944."

Ultimately, for those who have dedicated their lives to protecting our country, these loans serve as a way to acknowledge their unwavering commitment. Educating and supporting veterans in understanding the benefits of VA loans stands as a significant gesture of gratitude for their service and sacrifices.

Selling your home quickly during the holiday season might seem like a daunting task, but with the right approach, it's entirely possible. While it's common to assume that most buyers are preoccupied with holiday festivities, there are still plenty of motivated individuals and families looking to make a real estate move before the year's end. To seize this opportunity, consider these valuable tips to expedite the home-selling process during the holiday rush:

Polish Your Online Listing: Since many buyers prefer to stay warm and cozy indoors during the colder months, having an attractive online listing is essential. Make sure your listing is current, with high-quality photos and a detailed description. This online presence will be the first impression potential buyers have of your home.

Highlight Holiday Features: Create an ambiance that allows buyers to imagine celebrating holidays in your home. Emphasize architectural features that are perfect for the holidays, such as a fireplace, bay window for a Christmas tree, or a spacious dining room for Thanksgiving feasts. Adding subtle holiday decor like twinkle lights can make your home feel inviting.

Don't Overdo Holiday Decor: While holiday decorations can add charm, it's important not to go overboard. Keep your decorations tasteful and minimal to avoid overwhelming potential buyers and detracting from your home's features.

Be Flexible with Showings: During the holidays, buyers may have a limited timeframe to visit properties. Being flexible with showings, even at short notice, can set your home apart from others. Buyers appreciate accommodating sellers who make viewing their homes easy.

Ensure Move-In Readiness: Having your home pre-inspected helps build buyer confidence. Fixing any issues before listing can save you money in the long run and ensures your home is in the best condition. Highlight these improvements in your listing to attract more buyers.

Prioritize Curb Appeal: Curb appeal is crucial during the fall and winter months. Ensure the exterior of your home is well-maintained, free from debris, and safe. Potential buyers should feel welcome and safe approaching your home, even in colder weather.

Offer Incentives: Providing incentives can make your home more appealing. Offer to cover closing costs or provide updated appliances. Be open to negotiation to attract more offers, especially during a season when competition is lower.

Plan a Themed Open House: Hosting a holiday-themed open house is a creative way to showcase your home. Consider organizing events like a pre-holiday tree trimming, or provide homemade holiday treats. However, be mindful of timing to ensure it doesn't conflict with buyers' holiday plans.
These strategies can help you effectively market your home during the holiday season, making it more attractive to potential buyers and increasing your chances of selling quickly.

Fall is in the air. The days are getting shorter and the temperature is getting cooler. While you may be ready to enjoy hot apple cider and pumpkin carving, it's also time to prepare your home for cold weather.

Here's a checklist of 10 important fall home maintenance tasks to consider doing ever year.

1. Seal Air Leaks: To keep the warmth inside and the cold outside during the fall and winter months, it's crucial to identify and seal any air leaks in your home. This can be done by adding self-adhesive weatherstripping to windows and doors. A door sweep at the base of exterior doors can also help prevent drafts.
2. Roof Check: Inspecting your roof is essential to ensure that it's in good condition before the winter season. Look for signs of damage, missing shingles, or loose seams. Also, check your gutters for shingle granules, which can indicate roof wear. Addressing these issues promptly can help prevent leaks and further damage during winter.
3. Clean Gutters: Regular cleaning and maintenance of your gutters and downspouts is essential to prevent water damage. Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams during winter and are inviting to pests. Clean your gutters at least twice a year to ensure they function properly. If you're not comfortable doing this task on a ladder, consider hiring a professional.
4. Test Alarms: Fall is an excellent time to ensure that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in good working order. Test them monthly and replace their batteries at least once a year. Detectors older than ten years should be replaced entirely for optimal safety.
5. Adjust Thermostat: Save energy and reduce heating costs by adjusting your thermostat. Consider installing a programmable thermostat if you don't have one already. You can set it to lower the temperature when you're not at home or when you're sleeping and raise it when you're home and awake.
6. Furnace Inspection: Have your furnace inspected and cleaned by a professional at least once a year. This maintenance helps ensure that your heating equipment operates safely and efficiently. Regular check-ups can also prevent unexpected breakdowns during the winter months.
7. Filter Check: Many household appliances require clean filters to run efficiently. This includes furnace filters, vacuum cleaners, refrigerator water filters, dishwasher filters, air purifiers, humidifiers, clothing dryers (both filter and duct), and range hoods. Regularly check and replace these filters to maintain the efficiency of your appliances.
8. Water Heater Drain: Draining your water heater annually can help remove sediment buildup. This sediment can lead to clogs and make your water heater less efficient. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions or contact a professional for guidance on how to drain your water heater.
9. Shut Off Exterior Faucets: In colder climates, it's important to prevent water left in exterior pipes from freezing, which could lead to burst pipes. Drain and disconnect garden hoses before the cold weather sets in. You can also insulate exterior faucets with covers to help prevent freezing during the winter.
10. Prep Outdoor Furniture: Get your outdoor furniture ready for the off-season by cleaning and storing it properly. Clean off dirt & debris, ensure cushions are dry, and store furniture in a covered area or use protective covers. This maintenance step will prolong your outdoor furniture's life for future use.

By tackling these fall home maintenance tasks, you can ensure that your home is prepared for the winter season, potentially saving you money on energy bills and avoiding costly repairs.

If you are looking to get into the fall spirit this October look no further! We have compiled a list of 10 fun and frightful fall activities in St. George this October. There is something for everyone, so be sure to check out the list!

• Staheli Family Farms
  • Discover a fantastic experience for the whole family at Staheli Family Farms. Explore their pumpkin patch, navigate the corn maze, enjoy wagon rides, delicious food, and even meet friendly animals in their petting zoo. For those seeking a thrill, venture into their "field of screams." Staheli Farms is your go-to destination for all things fall. Click HERE for more information
• Red Hill Desert Garden
  • Visit the Red Hill Desert Garden and be captivated by a spooky display of scarecrows and a haunted canyon. Local businesses and individuals decorate scarecrows, competing for prizes. The haunted canyon is adorned with eerie skeletons, witches, and more.
• Hurricane Fall Fest
  • Join the Hurricane Recreation for an incredible Fall Fest on Saturday, October 21, 2023, from 4-10 pm. The event features live music, vendors, trunk or treat, bounce houses, a movie in the park, and much more, making it a perfect outing for the entire family.
• Silver Reef Ghost Night 2023
  • Step back in time and meet the ghosts of 19th Century mining town residents at Silver Reef Ghost Night 2023. This unique event blends ghostly fun with historical insights. Don't forget to make reservations for an unforgettable experience. Reservations are $8.00 per person if prepaid with registration, or $8.50 per person if not prepaid. You can buy tickets HERE
• Fisher Family Fall Fest
  • Enjoy the Second Annual Fall Fest at Fisher Family Farm throughout October. Activities include giant culvert slides, a pump bike track (bring your own helmet and bike), a bounce house, a petting zoo, a tractor tire town, a sledding hill, a haunted greenhouse, an American farm warrior course, a pumpkin patch, and more. All tickets must be purchased online and are priced as follows: Adults-$10, Kids (3-10)- $7, 2 and under free. You can pruchase ticket HERE
• Thunder Junction Spooktacular
  • The Tonaquint Nature Center’s Fall Festival has merged with the Thunder Junction Spooktacular on October 27, 28, and 30 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm. Dress up for the costume contest and enjoy crafts, a cake walk, and spooky train rides. This family-friendly event only costs $5 per person. Click HERE for more information.
• Red Cliffs Malloween
  • Celebrate Halloween at the Red Cliffs Mall with an evening of trick-or-treating, creative crafts, and a meet-and-greet with characters from Ever After Events. The event includes live music, a costume contest, and plenty of giveaways. Join in on Tuesday, October 31, from 5-7 pm.
• Autumn Art Show
  • Immerse yourself in the world of creativity at the Autumn Art Show in Washington. The Washington City Art Council showcases the remarkable works of local artists at the Red Cliff Gallery. Attend the opening reception on Friday, October 13, from 6-8 pm. Mingle with the artists, savor refreshments, and enjoy the remarkable collection of paintings, sculptures, and more. This event is free and open to the public, running from October 13 to November 9, 2023.
• Washington City Trunk or Treat
  • Washington City is hosting a community-wide Trunk or Treat event at the Washington City Community Center Parking Lot on October 23rd from 6-8 pm.
• Fiesta Fright Night
  • Dive into the world of fear and fun at Fiesta Fright Night, a two-story haunted house that promises twists and turns through your worst fears. Located behind the Fiesta Fun Center's new building, general admission is $17.95. Click HERE for more information

This October, immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of fall with these exciting activities throughout St. George. Whether you're seeking family-friendly adventures or spine-tingling thrills, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Tomorrow Saturday ,October 14, 2023, a celestial masterpiece is set to grace the skies above Utah - the annular solar eclipse. This awe-inspiring event occurs when the moon, at its furthest point from Earth, positions itself precisely between the sun and our planet. This alignment results in a captivating sight, with the moon appearing smaller than the sun and leaving a mesmerizing ring of fiery light around its edges, aptly named the "ring of fire."

This year, the celestial event will pass over seven states, encompassing approximately 30 national parks and spanning the breadth of southern and central Utah. Check out our complete list of parks along the eclipse's path HERE

Weather permitting, Southern Utah will offer front-row seats to this year's annular solar eclipse. The event is set to span nearly three hours, unfolding in several phases that promise to leave you breathless.

Phase 1-The Crescent Phase: It commences with a crescent-shaped partial eclipse, as the moon first makes its move across the sun.

Phase 2-The Ring of Fire: Approximately an hour and 20 minutes later, the moon takes center stage, creating the annularity - the famed "ring of fire." This phase , lasting one to five minutes, will cast a darkness over the sky and cool down the air.

Phase 3-The Partial Eclipse: As the moon continues its journey across the sun for about another hour and 20 minutes, it transitions into a partial eclipse before the lunar orb disappears

Preparation for Eclipse Viewing:

For those eager to partake in this cosmic spectacle, preparation is key. Here are some essential considerations

Safety First: Under no circumstances should you attempt to observe the sun directly during the eclipse. The sun's intensity can cause severe eye damage. Instead, equip yourself with certified eclipse glasses or solar viewers approved by the American Astronomical Society.

Location, Location, Location: Opt for a suitable viewing location. Find a spot away from the lights of the city and ensure an unobstructed view of the sun's path. Parks, open fields, and elevated vantage points are your best bets.
Keep an Eye on the Skies: Stay updated on the weather forecast as the eclipse approaches. Clear skies will enhance your viewing experience. Check out this list of best places to view the eclipse HERE!
Plan Ahead: Arrive at your chosen viewing location well in advance. Eclipse day is not the time for last-minute decisions. The eclipse will enter Utah around 9 a.m. MT, with annularity commencing at approximately 10:20 a.m. MT. It is set to exit the state around 12 noon MT.
The 2023 annular solar eclipse promises a rare and captivating opportunity to witness the wonders of our universe against the backdrop of Southern Utah's magnificent landscapes. By adhering to safety guidelines and making preparations in advance, you can savor every moment of this unique experience.
For more eclipse viewing tips click HERE

This Saturday, October 7th, marks the 47th anniversary of the St. George Marathon, a cherished tradition that extends its appeal beyond runners to encompass family members, friends, and dedicated community volunteers. Nearly 5,000 runners will embark on a remarkable 26.2-mile journey, while an additional 2,500 participants will engage in the half marathon. Runner's World has recognized the St. George Marathon as one of the best 'Marathons to Build a Vacation Around' and included it in the '10 Most Scenic and Fastest Marathons in the USA.'
Since its humble inception in 1977 with just 58 participants, this event has experienced tremendous growth, surpassing 5,000 participants over the past 47 years. However, it has evolved into much more than a mere marathon. The marathon weekend now offers diverse options, such as the Kids Race, InfoWest 5K, Mayor's Walk, and the St. George Half Marathon, accommodating a wide variety of runners. The weekend is enriched with music, a captivating drone show at the marathon start line, engaging keynote speakers, the Zion's Bank Expo, and a multitude of family-friendly activities—all free of charge.
The Marathon Weekend commences at the Zion's Bank Expo on Friday, October 6th, at the Dixie Convention Center, running from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Expo serves as the hub for runners to collect their race packets, explore numerous vendor booths, enjoy various photo opportunities, and attend enlightening keynote sessions. This event is open to the public, inviting everyone to share in the excitement. On the same Friday, the Party in the Park welcomes all, featuring the InfoWest 5K Race and the Fun Run Walk N' Roll (1 mile or 200 meters), commencing at 5:30 p.m. Following the races, the celebration continues at the Convention Center's Party in the Park, lasting until 8 p.m., complete with food trucks, bounce houses, and live music.
On race day, participants and spectators can join Mayor Michele Randall for the annual Mayor’s Walk at 7 a.m. The walk, commencing at Tabernacle Street near the Washington County School District office, spans approximately 1 mile to the marathon finish line at Vernon Worthen Park. Spectators are encouraged to gather at the finish line from 7:15 a.m. onwards, awaiting the arrival of the first Mayor’s Walk finishers. Around 8 a.m., the first finishers from the St. George Half Marathon are expected to cross, followed by the full-distance runners arriving after 9 a.m.
Michelle Graves, race director and assistant parks and community services director for the city of St. George expressed, 'The marathon is a city tradition that I look forward to every year. It is truly inspiring to see athletes come from all over the U.S. just to participate in this event. This is a goal they’ve been working toward for months, and to see their training pay off is very moving.'
The tremendous success of the marathon weekend hinges on the dedication of its volunteers. Those interested in contributing can visit the marathon website to explore volunteer opportunities and register.
For more details, please visit stgeorgemarathon.com.

Washington County Board of REALTORS^® proudly announces a new public facing property search website: www.SouthernUtahRealEstate.com!  







We're well aware of the large, nationwide property search sites, but do they offer the consumer what they're looking for? SouthernUtahRealEstate.com is a Multiple Listing Service (MLS) that offers the consumer a locally focused platform that will display area available homes for sales and rental properties, without competing advertising or the collecting and selling of generated leads. 

“I am very excited to use and direct my clients to use a fully functional, one-stop, consumer based web site that is syndicated directly from our MLS. I believe this addition to our tool box will greatly aid our buyers, sellers and particularly those looking to rent to quickly locate properties and  information helpful to their housing needs." --Joe Langston, Associate Broker, KW Success Keller Williams St. George & 2023 WCBR President

SouthernUtahRealEstate.com is owned and operated by the Washington County Board of REALTORS® and is where real estate listings in Washington County, Utah originate. Our MLS is the #1 preferred, and most used multiple listing service (MLS) for real estate professionals in Washington County, Utah. SouthernUtahRealEstate.com offers you the most complete, most accurate and most comprehensive property information available. Not to mention, this service is REALTOR® owned, so you can be confident that our subscribers adhere to a strict ethical code, established by the National Association of REALTORS®.

How will SouthernUtahRealEstate.com work?

For buyers, SouthernUtahRealEstate.com will provide you and your REALTOR® the most accurate and up-to-date information about the homes available in the areas where you are looking to buy a home. For sellers, SouthernUtahRealEstate.com enables your REALTOR® to market your home to active buyers in our market, exposing your home to viewers directed to the site from one of our many ad campaigns, as well as across 1,000+ local and national real estate websites. For renters, get information on available rental properties in ONE PLACE, without having to visit dozens of property management websites in the area.

"Finally! A consumer friendly website to direct our customers and clients too! Southernutahrealestate.com offers all-inclusive, one-stop shopping with the most accurate, up-to-date listing information.  What a great tool for both our local agents and the public!" --Tammy Houchen, Broker, Red Rock Real Estate & 2023 WCBR President-Elect

While consumers can create accounts, share listings and "favorite" properties of interest, SouthernUtahRealEstate.com will not collect consumer data. Rather, the listing agent's info is displayed on each listing, allowing consumers to inquire on properties directly from the source of the listing.