Buckskin Tavern & Gus Thomas Studio - 2 Ribbon Cuttings in May!

Buckskin Tavern

Photo by Stacy Cox.

It was a festive atmosphere as people were arriving for the much-awaited grand re-opening of the historic Buckskin Tavern. Kanab Area Chamber vice president Ron Thomas, in appropriate western dress, corralled everyone out under the Buckskin sign for the ribbon cutting.  After a few words from Ron and Tavern owner Craig Embley, the ribbon was cut to cheers and everyone headed inside for complimentary street tacos and happy hour beverages on the house. 

Craig took folks out to the “backyard” where there were “oohs” and “aahs” about the beautiful stage that he built for future entertainment.  “I want the Buckskin to be a national stopover spot,” Craig said, talking about the venue’s ability to attract national touring acts, as well as local performances.  “And I want it to be just as much a restaurant as a bar, serving great food along with our drinks. I want it to be a must-see location for anyone coming through.” The owners of the Buckskin are also preparing to lean into their operations as a package liquor store, distributing more as their license allows.  More information is available on the Buckskin’s social media.

Gus Thomas Studio

Inside a bright, colorful display room that opens up onto Kanab’s Center Street, hang the breathtaking photos of Gus Thomas Photography.  To celebrate the grand opening of the gallery, the Kanab Area Chamber had a ribbon cutting. Chamber vice president Ron Thomas welcomed the attendees and talked about how important businesses like Gus’s are to the diversity of Kanab.  Gus Thomas, who has been a photographer for 20 years, spoke about how happy he was to be opening the gallery, and thanked everyone for coming. This new establishment is filled with his breathtaking shots of the outdoors from around Utah, to Yellowstone, to Glacier National Park, and beyond.

Gus and his wife Lori, a retired teacher,  first came to the area in 2010. They visited Zion and stayed in Mt. Carmel Junction.  Through the years they continued to come back to visit this area. In 2021, they stayed in an RV in Glendale and found Kanab Drug, their favorite place, calling it “cool and friendly”.  Two years ago, local realtor Karen Heet took them on a 3-hour tour that turned into 6 hours of enjoying the town, which resulted in them making a purchase and settling here.  Gus said he loves Kanab because they feel a real sense of being a part of a community.  We’re so glad that Gus & Lori are part of this community and offer our congratulations on the opening of the Gus Thomas Photography gallery.