Once a lone immigrant from an Iranian family of 12, Frank Hibibian, now a notable business proprietor in Las Vegas and St. George, has never forgotten the warmth of his first American Thanksgiving. And since the 1970s, Frank has continued to pay it forward.
“Our family had a good life in Iran,” Frank recalls, “but I was enamored with America, and I knew I could make something of myself if I was disciplined and consistent in my efforts.”
Frank emigrated to the United States at age 17, landing first in New York in the 1960s, then Washington D.C., Southern California and eventually Utah. He graduated from Southern Utah University, earning a degree in aeronautical engineering and meeting his future wife, Melanie. His first job was with NASA, which eventually took him back to Iran to work special projects. He returned to the U.S. four years later with a small fortune, settling in St. George to begin his business career.
Business in St. George
Frank has played a major role in many of the city’s developments for over 50 years, working with prominent developers. He purchased the Liberty Hotel on St. George Boulevard in the early 1970s, making it their family residence and livelihood until he successfully converted it into apartments. He also built the Quality Inn and the Four Seasons Inn, Restaurant & Convention Center with Jay Ence. The family managed the Four Seasons and hosted many community events. Frank recently resumed control of the Red Rock Canyon School complex and is awaiting approvals to update the facility.
Reflecting on his success, Frank explains, “It’s not ME, it’s WE ... this has been my mantra in all my business dealings. When I work with others and we can come together as one, good things happen.”
Frank and family are developing businesses primarily in Las Vegas now, specifically with the Innovation Plaza complex across from the Orleans Hotel—a mixed-use development that will eventually encompass an entire city block.
A Thanksgiving Day Tradition
During his first Thanksgiving in America, a family invited him to share Thanksgiving dinner. Touched by their hospitality, he vowed he would do the same for someone in need if he ever had the means.
While the Habibians lived in the Liberty Hotel, Frank honored his word, offering a free Thanksgiving Day meal to anyone who needed it. He says, “It was our way of giving back, and we fed about 15 people that first year.”
The Thanksgiving Day meal event has continued for more than 50 years—some years drawing nearly 3,500 people. Last year, 120 turkeys were cooked for meals with all the fixings. Annual contributors include Stephen Wade, Dave Wilkey, Costco, Croshaw’s Gourmet Pies, Harmons, Lin’s and Village Inn, to name a few. Volunteers number in the hundreds. Food is served at the Red Rock School until it’s gone or people no longer show up. Frank believes this outreach blesses those in need as well as those who give of themselves to prepare, serve and cleanup.
A Legacy of Joy
Melanie and Frank have three sons, Sherman, Gerard and Shaun, and a daughter, Alicia, who all grew up in St. George and attended Dixie High School. Although business interests have taken him to Las Vegas, Frank loves returning to St. George often, especially with his family on Thanksgiving Day, to greet, serve and bless those who come to enjoy a meal and give thanks.
“Whatever our circumstances, when we recognize each other as brothers and sisters, our service will brighten our lives. America is the greatest country in the world ... and we must stand up to preserve its liberties and freedoms. The greatest joy you will find comes from serving others,” says Frank.
The public is welcome on Thanksgiving Day to join in the tradition, from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., at 747 East St. George Boulevard in St. George.
Fred Bernhardt is a freelance writer about sports and other musings. He lives in Washington City,